bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-designing the FOotpaths foR Adolescent MAternal Mental HeAlth (FOR MAMA) intervention for pregnant teens in Malawi
Authors: Mhango Wezi , Michelson Daniel , Gaysina Darya
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to gain insights into stakeholders’ priorities and preferences for a scalable intervention for common mental problems among perinatal adolescents in Malawi.

Methods

Participatory stakeholder workshops (n=9) were conducted iteratively according to the principles of the Person-Based Approach. Three stakeholder groups were recruited from one urban and one rural primary health centre in Zomba district, Malawi: perinatal adolescents (n=10), their family members (n=8) and healthcare workers (n=10). Framework analysis was conducted using intervention descriptors from the Template for Intervention Description and Replication checklist.

Results

Participants emphasized the need for information on causes and symptoms of common mental problems and for developing coping strategies: a) those focused on external stressors—problem-solving, financial literacy and interpersonal skills—and b) emotion-focused approach behaviours—behavioural activation, relaxation and anger management. There was a strong preference for healthcare workers as intervention providers. Participants agreed on a brief antenatal intervention delivered weekly using both group and individual formats. There were positive views on both self-help and guided formats. All stakeholder groups felt there was a need for follow-up to ensure that adolescents correctly engaged with the intervention material.

Conclusions

Findings informed the design of a brief multicomponent guided intervention for adolescents in the antenatal period.
Concurrent presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and bullous pemphigoid: a rare case report
Authors: Condeng Yusuf Haz , Minhajat Rahmawati , Aman Andi Makbul , Rasyid Haerani , Bakri Syakib , Iskandar Harun
Published: January 2025

Historically, adolescents and young adults diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have faced lower survival rates compared to children with the same illness. Bullous pemphigoid (BP), a rare autoimmune skin disorder, poses unique challenges when occurring alongside hematologic malignancies. A 23-year-old male with ALL-L1 diagnosis who developed bullous pemphigoid in this report. The patient exhibited typical ALL-L1 symptoms, including constitutional manifestations and signs of bone marrow compromise. Dermatological assessment revealed extensive edematous urticaria-like plaques, erosions, excoriations, crusts, and a hemorrhagic bulla. Severe thrombocytopenia was evident in laboratory tests, with histopathological examination confirming bullous pemphigoid. Despite aggressive treatment, including platelet transfusions, the patient’s condition worsened. This case emphasizes the critical need for timely diagnosis and intervention in patients with concurrent hematologic and dermatologic conditions, as mortality rates may surpass those in BP patients without comorbidities.
Electromagnetic induction properties of filamentous bacteria in sediment
Authors: Kang Fuxing , Bonné Robin , Nielsen Lars Peter
Published: January 2025

Microbial perception of spatial electromagnetic fields is essential for navigation and communication on Earth's surface system, but current understanding of this phenomenon is limited. At present, cable bacteria of the Desulfobulbaceae family have the longest known range of electron transport. In fact, the flow of electrons along these long filamentous bacteria generates an external electrostatic field, suggesting a potential for electromagnetic induction mirroring that of metallic wires. In this study, we measured the responses of cable bacteria to externally applied electric waves. We noted the formation and disappearance of square waves caused by a pair of spatially variable electric fields, generating negative and positive mirror-symmetric inductions (±1.20 mV in marine sediment) along the horizontally filamentous bacterial layer. Both seawater Candidatus Electrothrix and freshwater Ca. Electronema exhibited this electric induction. The distinct spatial boundary of bacterial induction was strictly confined within 12.5 mm below the surface of the seawater sediment. The results of this study open further avenues of research into understanding how bacteria sense and respond to spatial electromagnetic information.
The codegree isomorphism problem for finite simple groups II
Authors: Hung Nguyen N , Moretó Alexander
Published: January 2025

Let H be a nonabelian finite simple group. Huppert’s conjecture asserts that if G is a finite group with the same set of complex character degrees as H, then $G\cong H\times A$ for some abelian group A. Over the past two decades, several specific cases of this conjecture have been addressed. Recently, attention has shifted to the analogous conjecture for character codegrees: if G has the same set of character codegrees as H, then $G\cong H$. Unfortunately, both problems have primarily been examined on a case-by-case basis. In this paper and the companion [15], we present a more unified approach to the codegree conjecture and confirm it for several families of simple groups.
Changes in interpersonal distance modulate social attention engagement: evidence from EEG alpha band suppression
Authors: Veranic Kristina , Ewing Louise , Sambrook Thomas , Watson Elizabeth A. G , Zhao Mintao , Bayliss Andrew P
Published: January 2025

Interpersonal space is regulated carefully and updated dynamically during social interactions to maintain comfort. We investigated the naturalistic processing of interpersonal distance in real time and space using a powerful implicit neurophysiological measure of attentional engagement. In a sample of 37 young adults recruited at a UK university, we found greater EEG alpha band suppression when a person ‘occupies’ or‘moves into’ near-personal space than for a person occupying or moving into public space. In the dynamic condition only, the differences attenuated over the course of the experiment, and were sensitive to individual differences in social anxiety. These data show, for the first time, neurophysiological correlates of interpersonal distance coding in a naturalistic setting. Critically, while veridical distance is important for attentional response to the presence of a person in one’s space, the behavioural relevance of their movement through public and personal space takes primacy.
miR‐199a‐3p mitigates simulated microgravity‐induced cardiac remodeling by targeting MEF2C
Authors: Pan Junjie , Li Jianwei , Li Jianhua , Ling Shukuan , Du Ruikai , Xing Wenjuan , Li Yuheng , Sun Weijia , Li Youyou , Fan Yuanyuan , Yuan Xinxin , Sun Huiyuan , Yu Mingqi , Wang Xingyi , Li Yingxian , Zhong Guohui
Published: January 2025

Microgravity‐induced cardiac remodeling and dysfunction present significant challenges to long‐term spaceflight, highlighting the urgent need to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and develop precise countermeasures. Previous studies have outlined the important role of miRNAs in cardiovascular disease progression, with miR‐199a‐3p playing a crucial role in myocardial injury repair and the maintenance of cardiac function. However, the specific role and expression pattern of miR‐199a‐3p in microgravity‐induced cardiac remodeling remain unclear. We separately utilized mouse tail suspension and rhesus monkey bedrest models to construct simulated microgravity conditions and observed significant cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in both species, accompanied by a marked downregulation of miR‐199a‐3p expression in their hearts. By generating cardiac‐specific transgenic (TG) mice and subjecting them to tail suspension, we observed that the wild‐type (WT) mice exhibited cardiac remodeling characterized by increased fibrosis, smaller cardiomyocytes, and reduced ejection fraction (EF). In contrast, the miR‐199a‐3p TG mice were able to counteract the cardiac remodeling induced by tail suspension, demonstrating that miR‐199a‐3p can protect against simulated microgravity‐induced cardiac remodeling. Subsequently, we employed an AAV9‐mediated delivery system for cardiac‐specific overexpression of miR‐199a‐3p, significantly mitigating cardiac remodeling and dysfunction induced by simulated microgravity. Mechanistically, miR‐199a‐3p targets MEF2C, inhibiting its activation induced by simulated microgravity, thereby suppressing the associated cardiac remodeling. This research identifies miR‐199a‐3p as a promising therapeutic target with significant potential for precise protection against spaceflight‐induced cardiovascular dysfunction.
Interaction of Gut-Microbial Amyloids with Endogenous Amyloids can Drives Microglial Hyperactivity and Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Forgham Helen , Albornoz Eduardo A. , Pietrogrande Giovanni , Zhu Jiayuan , Chung Ka Hang Karen , Tahir Muhammad S. , Ali Syed Aoun , Qiao Ruirui , Kakinen Aleksandr , Wolvetang Ernst J. , Woodruff Trent M. , Aguado Julio , Otzen Daniel E. , Davis Thomas P. , Javed Ibrahim
Published: January 2025

Gut bacteria have emerged as silent drivers in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). They also make amyloids with structure analogue to pathological amyloids and have potential to cross-seed and propagate in a prion-like manner. AD is characterised by the accumulation of mature extracellular Amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques which are surrounded by inflammatory microglia. We report that exposure to interspecies microbial amyloids of FapC (fimbriae) and CsgA (curli) from opportunistic gut pathogensPseudomonas aeruginosaandEscherichia colihyperactivates microglia against Aβ fibrils. Microbial amyloids and Aβ fibrils converge in phagocytic compartments through subsequent internalization, not observed with Aβ fibrils alone. This convergence promotes pro-inflammatory microglia with a defective proteome similar to those observed in AD brains. The resulting clusters develop a pro-inflammatory, indigestible interactome that is eventually regurgitated, inducing progressive degeneration in bystander neurons and ultimately leading to cognitive decline. Collectively, these findings provide compelling evidence that microbial amyloids can trigger progressive AD pathology through microglia-driven neuroinflammation.
Rare variants in PRKCI cause Van der Woude syndrome and other features of peridermopathy
Authors: Robinson Kelsey R. , Singh Sunil K. , Walkup Rachel B , Fawwal Dorelle V. , Adeyemo Wasiu Lanre , Beaty Terri H. , Butali Azeez , Buxó Carmen J. , Chung Wendy K. , Cutler David J. , Epstein Michael P. , Fashina Azeez , Gasser Brooklynn , Gowans Lord J.J. , Hecht Jacqueline T. , Moreno Uribe Lina , Scott Daryl A. , Shaw Gary M. , Thomas Mary Ann , Weinberg Seth M. , Brand Harrison , Marazita Mary L. , Lipinski Robert J , Murray Jeffrey C. , Cornell Robert A. , Leslie-Clarkson Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2025

Van der Woude syndrome (VWS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by lower lip pits and orofacial clefts (OFCs). With a prevalence of approximately 1 in 35,000 live births, it is the most common form of syndromic clefting and may account for ~2% of all OFCs. The majority of VWS is attributed to genetic variants in IRF6 (~70%) or GRHL3 (~5%), leaving up to 25% of individuals with VWS without a molecular diagnosis. Both IRF6 and GRHL3 function in a transcriptional regulatory network governing differentiation of periderm, a single layer of epithelial cells that prevents pathological adhesions during palatogenesis. Disruption of this layer results in a spectrum of phenotypes ranging from lip pits and OFCs to severe pterygia and other congenital anomalies that can be incompatible with life. Understanding the mechanisms of peridermopathies is vital in improving health outcomes for affected individuals. We reasoned that genes encoding additional members of the periderm gene regulatory network, including kinases acting upstream of IRF6 (i.e., atypical protein kinase C family members, RIPK4, and CHUK), are candidates to harbor variants resulting in VWS. Consistent with this prediction, we identified 6 de novo variants (DNs) and 11 rare variants in PRKCI, an atypical protein kinase C, in 17 individuals with clinical features consistent with syndromic OFCs and peridermopathies. Of the identified DNs, 4 were identical p.(Asn383Ser) variants in unrelated individuals with syndromic OFCs, indicating a likely hotspot mutation. We also performed functional validation of 12 variants using the enveloping layer in zebrafish embryos, a structure analogous to the periderm. Three patient-specific alleles (p.[Arg130His], p.[Asn383Ser], and p.[Leu385Phe]) were confirmed to be loss-of-function variants. In summary, we identified PRKCI as a novel causal gene for VWS and syndromic OFC with other features of peridermopathies.
Exploring the complexities of thesis writing in the distance mode: postgraduate students’ perspectives, challenges and strategies
Authors: Yunus Mohamad , Bachtiar Bachtiar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the complexities faced by postgraduate students at Universitas Terbuka (UT) during their thesis writing process in a distance learning environment, focusing on their perspectives, challenges and strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employed a mixed-methods approach with a convergent parallel design, incorporating both quantitative data from 146 online questionnaire responses and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with 16 students. This comprehensive methodology enabled a detailed examination of the students' experiences. The participants were from seven study programs in the Postgraduate Schools of UT.

Findings

The study identifies key themes impacting thesis writing in a distance learning context, including self-discipline, time management, access to resources, technological adaptation, feelings of isolation, motivation and supervisory interaction. The findings highlight the critical role of structured support systems, technological infrastructure and adaptive strategies such as online study groups and productivity tools in mitigating these challenges. Regular, constructive feedback from supervisors and the establishment of a supportive academic community are crucial for student success.

Research limitations/implications

The research emphasizes the need for educational institutions to enhance their digital platforms and provide comprehensive training to bridge the gap in resource accessibility and technological proficiency. Further studies could expand on the specific needs of different demographic groups within the distance learning framework.

Practical implications

Institutions should implement targeted interventions such as time management workshops, regular mentoring sessions, and the development of interactive and collaborative online platforms to support distance learners effectively.

Social implications

By addressing the unique challenges of thesis writing in distance education, this study contributes to improving academic outcomes and enhancing the overall learning experience for postgraduate students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Originality/value

This research provides valuable insights into the specific experiences of postgraduate students at UT, offering actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers to support thesis writing in distance learning contexts.
Repercussions of restaurant corporate social responsibility on positive emotions, memorable experiences and eWOM
Authors: Souki Gustavo Quiroga , Oliveira Alessandro Silva de , Matos Celso Augusto de
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study endeavours to (1) evaluate the impacts of consumers’ perceptions regarding the corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices of casual dining restaurants on their memorable experiences (ME); (2) assess the impacts of consumers’ perceptions regarding the CSR practices of casual dining restaurants on their positive emotions; (3) explore the mediating effect of consumers’ positive emotions in the relationship between CSR and ME; (4) examine the impacts of ME on electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) and (5) investigate whether consumer behavioural engagement on social networking sites (CBE-SNS) moderates the relationship between ME and eWOM.

Design/methodology/approach

This survey included 394 casual dining restaurant consumers in Portugal. The hypothetical model, grounded in the stimulus-organism-response theory (S-O-R) proposed by Mehrabian and Russell (1974), was evaluated employing partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results demonstrated that restaurants’ CSR (stimulus) directly and positively impacts consumers’ ME and positive emotions (organism). Positive emotions mediate the relationship between restaurants’ CSR and consumers’ ME. Memorable consumer experiences directly and positively impact eWOM (response). Finally, CBE-SNS moderates the relationship between ME and eWOM.

Originality/value

This study uniquely elucidates the relationships among CSR, positive emotions, ME, CBE-SNS and eWOM within casual dining restaurants. Restaurants can use CSR as a stimulus to affect consumers’ positive emotions and ME (organism), generating repercussions on eWOM. Moreover, ME positively influences eWOM. However, CBE-SNS is crucial to establish strategies for distinct consumer profiles, which would increase the impact on eWOM. This study contributes to the S-O-R and provides practical implications for restaurant owners, managers, marketing professionals and policymakers in the food service sector.
Food pantry client choice variety: one size does not fit all
Authors: Bryant Andrew , Follett Lendie , Beck Daniel , Schlotterbeck Bryan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Matching foods available at food pantries to client preferences provides a variety of benefits and should be viewed as a best practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on food pantry client demographics and choices were collected throughout 2019, resulting in 467,384 recorded food choices. Households were segmented using a cluster analysis based on observed choices. Next, a variety of demographics-based statistical models were built to predict food choice segment membership.

Findings

Six different segments of clients emerge from the choice data. Some segments choose mostly fruits and vegetables; other segments prefer different options such as grains, animal protein, plant protein or easier-to-prepare but more processed combination foods. Further, these choice-based segments can be predicted with varying levels of accuracy using demographic information. This highlights that the food people choose is related to their identities. For example, as household size grows, clients are less likely to belong to the segment preferring combination foods and more likely to belong to the segment preferring fresh fruits and vegetables. However, other demographics are more predictive of different segments; for example, Asian households are more likely to belong to segments that show preference for plant proteins or for grains.

Originality/value

Large-scale data on pantry client choice is exceedingly rare. The authors use this unique data set to propose food pantries understand their clients better through traditional marketing methods, specifically segmentation.
Idiosyncratic deal seeking for personal brand verification
Authors: Garg Swati , Sinha Shuchi , Anand Smriti
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Grounded in social learning theory and conservation of resources theory, this study examines the link between witnessing co-workers’ idiosyncratic deals (i-deals) and task crafting, task crafting and task i-deals negotiation; and the route that employees take to build their perceptions of personal brand equity.

Design/methodology/approach

A time-lagged survey was used to collect data from 259 information technology (IT) and consulting professionals in India. Hypotheses were tested using PROCESS MACRO in R.

Findings

Results show that witnessing co-workers’ i-deals is positively associated with both task crafting and task i-deals negotiation; and task i-deals negotiation is positively associated with employees’ personal brand equity. Findings also show that task crafting mediates the positive impact of witnessing co-workers’ i-deals on task i-deals negotiation. Further, the study shows that need for legitimization of task customizations moderates the positive relationship between task crafting and task i-deals negotiation, in such a manner that the relationship is stronger when employees’ need for legitimization is low, and it is insignificant when their need for legitimization is high.

Originality/value

This is one of the earliest studies that examine the relationship between task crafting and task i-deals negotiation; and shows that employees negotiate task i-deals to build their personal brand equity.
Faith motifs in the constructions of family meanings by adults with care experience in Zimbabwe
Authors: Gwenzi Getrude Dadirai
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Adults with care experience often struggle to make sense of their family relationships owing to adverse childhood experiences (ACES). This study analysed motifs of faith and spirituality in how care leavers made sense of the concept of “family” in their lives.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from 45 adult care leavers Harare, Zimbabwe. A thematic analysis brought out recurring ideas of faith and spirituality that influenced participants’ family constructions.

Findings

The Church played a functional role in care leavers’ lives providing support and care. Faith-based residential care facilities engaged in group spiritual practices, such as going to Church together, praying and worshiping together, which fall within the contemporary concept of “family practices” and allowed care leavers to view unrelated caregivers as “family” based on shared experiences. Finally having faith in God was described as an anchoring force when dealing with the hardships of adulthood in the absence of biological family and state support. These findings have implications for social policy around the role of faith-based institutions in child welfare.

Originality/value

The investigation of the role of faith and spirituality in care-experienced lives is an emerging area of study. This study explores the role of faith and spirituality in care leavers interpersonal lives, which contributes to studies of care leavers’ personal lives. As a marginalized group of young people, their voices are crucial in informing social policy around their care after leaving public state care.
Behavioural shortcomings to avoid in asset valuation using comparable method – insights from a survey experiment
Authors: Setijono Djoko
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study aims to identify behavioural shortcomings made by appraisers while conducting valuation (in an experimental setting) of a commercial property in Indonesia. The research attempts to provide insights regarding the valuers’ behaviour, that is logic, judgment and decision particularly during the selection of comparables and the adjustment process.

Design/methodology/approach

The research mimics the setting of a real valuation assignment by applying survey experiment. To conduct the survey experiment, the researcher first creates a standardised working paper to be electronically sent to and then filled in by individually/personally approached valuers who have confirmed their willingness to participate in the research. The respondents are valuers from various institutions such as appraisal firm, bank, financial institution and multinational corporation in property research and agency, who have passed Basic Professional Education in Property Valuation (which makes them entitled registered valuers from the Indonesian Ministry of Finance). The respondents were asked to be involved in the experiment as an appraiser valuing a real object by filling in a working paper based on a given valuation case. The researcher (who is also a chartered/licensed valuer) carefully observed what actually has happened in the process of adjustment determined by the appraisers according to their judgments and decisions. The researcher and the respondents are able to interact (when necessary) in order to clarify, to confirm or if there are comments as well as questions from the respondents regarding the research. The interactions enable the researcher to capture richer behavioural insights.

Findings

The following behavioural shortcomings are identified from the respondents’ submitted working papers and reactions during their participation in the research: (a) information avoidance, (b) bias and fallacy and (c) inaccuracies. The first two are related to how valuers address and react on a certain issue such as information, while the last is related to their judgement and decision making. It is also found that inaccuracies can appear in the following modes: inconsistency, misplacement, assumed equality (assumption of insignificant difference) and unjustified allocation.

Practical implications

The results of this research provide insights of real examples regarding what to avoid when conducting a professional valuation work, that is unnecessary, incorrect perspectives and actions.

Originality/value

The selected research method and the applied data-collection technique allow a closer look at how valuers conducting valuation work and/or a deeper observation inside valuation process therefore enables to identify what inappropriate uses during anchoring and adjustments might be. This research contributes to scarce literature on behavioural valuation research based on own/direct experience.
The work–life balance puzzle: a key to success in business and life
Authors: Nieto-Aleman Paula Andrea , Berné-Martínez José-Miguel , Arnal-Pastor Maria
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Work–life balance (WLB) is necessary to allow organisations to innovate and develop markets. WLB enables employee development and influences employee motivation and productivity by helping retain employees and keeping them engaged. The aim of this study is to identify the causal configurations leading to employees’ perceived WLB.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to identify the causal patterns of necessary and sufficient conditions that lead to WLB. Two dimensions of WLB are considered: (1) context (socioeconomic level and distance to work) and (2) organisation (work flexibility, job security and teleworking). These dimensions are studied to determine whether they lead to WLB. The study focuses on the city of Vila-real (Spain). The study data are sourced from male and female parents aged 19–56 years.

Findings

There are gender differences in perceived WLB. The observation that no single strategy leads to WLB is especially true for women, who achieve WLB through nine combinations of factors. For men, having a full-time contract is conducive to WLB. In contrast, women’s perception towards teleworking affects their perceived WLB.

Originality/value

The framework developed in this paper can be used to identify necessary and sufficient pathways to WLB to support the development of WLB policies and practices. It provides managers and policymakers with a framework to promote employee-centred WLB policies and practices.
Impact of remittances from the Afghan diaspora: a case study on the effects in the Samangan province
Authors: Barlas Ahmad Walid , Elo Maria , Chand Masud
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study examines the relationship between international remittances and income inequality in Afghanistan by analysing how remittances affect income inequality in the Samangan province.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected by administering a questionnaire to 325 households in the Samangan province using a multi-stage sampling approach. Income distribution was measured using the Gini coefficient.

Findings

There were an average of 8 members and 1.5 migrants in each household, with the mean age of respondents being 35. Remittances formed about 25% of the household income and had a slight negative effect on income inequality, with a 1% increase in remittances leading to a 0.04% decrease in inequality.

Research limitations/implications

The data were collected in one province. The findings underline the need to develop policies that foster peace and stability through reducing inequality.

Practical implications

International remittances can form a significant portion of household income in conflict-affected and post-conflict societies. The effect of remittances on income distribution can help us understand where development efforts need to be channelled and how businesses can best operate in challenging circumstances.

Originality/value

This is the only study to our knowledge that looks at the effects of migration and remittances on income inequality in Afghanistan.
The Functional and Structural Succession of Mesic‐Grassland Soil Microbiomes Beneath Decomposing Large Herbivore Carcasses
Authors: Fouché Jacques , Lebre Pedro H. , Melville Haemish A. , Cowan Don A.
Published: January 2025

Plant detritus is abundant in grasslands but decomposes slowly and is relatively nutrient‐poor, whereas animal carcasses are labile and nutrient‐rich. Recent studies have demonstrated that labile nutrients from carcasses can significantly alter the long‐term soil microbial function at an ecosystem scale. However, there is a paucity of knowledge on the functional and structural response and temporal scale of soil microbiomes beneath large herbivore carcasses. This study compared microbiome functions and structures of soil beneath Connochaetes taurinus (hereafter ‘wildebeest’) carcasses at various postmortem intervals of decomposition to matched control samples over 18 months. Microbial functions were compared by their community‐level physiological profiles determined by sole‐carbon substrate utilisation and structures by metagenomic sequences using 16S rRNA gene markers. Overall metabolism and metabolic diversity remained increased and functionally dissimilar to control soils throughout the experimental period, with successive sole‐carbon substrate utilisation observed. Conversely, diversity was initially reduced and structurally dissimilar from the control soil but recovered within the experimental period. The study contributes to the knowledge of carcass decomposition by investigating the long‐term soil microbiome dynamics resulting from large herbivore carcasses decomposing in a mesic grassland. Microbial functional succession and ecologically relevant bacterial biomarkers of soil beneath the decomposing carcasses were identified for various postmortem intervals.
EPISTEMIC JUSTICE AND THE UNIVERSITY: Reclaiming the academy for emancipatory urban praxis
Authors: Butcher Stephanie , Shafique Tanzil , Recio Redento B. , Chatterjee Ishita
Published: January 2025

This essay offers provocations on the possibilities and challenges of advancing ‘epistemic justice’ in urban research, with particular care for the growing ‘academic precariat’. We explore some of the institutional barriers and possibilities of doing collaborative justice‐oriented work within urban and built environment scholarship, especially for those fixed‐term, early career, casual academics, independent scholars or those with career breaks. To do so, we refer to and reframe three concepts that are core within academic institutions: ethics, engagement and excellence. We explore the potentials of the urban as a site of political struggles, the projective potential of urban disciplines and the university as an urban actor to offer our intentionalities—alternative pathways—through which we can reclaim the radical role of the university towards an emancipatory urban praxis.
Chinese Registry of Rheumatoid Arthritis (CREDIT) VI: Temporal Trends in Patients With Early Rheumatoid Arthritis and Moderate‐To‐Severe Disease Activity ‐ A Multicenter Cohort Study of Treatment Strategies and Outcomes
Authors: Deng Yafang , Qiao Lin , Li Hongbin , Yu Chen , Jin Shangyi , Wang Jing , Zou Qinghua , Wu Lijun , duan Xinwang , Xu Jian , Mo Hanyou , Jiang Zhenyu , Jiang Nan , Wang Yanhong , Zeng Xiaofeng , Li Mengtao , Wang Qian , Tian Xinping ,   CREDIT Co‐authors
Published: January 2025

Aim

The continuous update of international guidelines and enhanced availability of biological disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs) have made a significant impact on the diagnosis and treatment of early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA). This study aims to systematically evaluate the current treatment strategies and outcomes within a large‐scale cohort of patients with ERA.

Methods

Data from the Chinese Registry of Rheumatoid Arthritis (CREDIT), a large multicenter Chinese registry of RA, were collected to analyze temporal trends in clinical profiles, therapeutic strategies, and treatment outcomes among patients with ERA.

Results

From November 2016 to October 2023, A total of 2722 patients with follow‐up information for 6 months were included. The use of methotrexate (MTX) increased annually and has become the predominant DMARD as the initial treatment. Following initial therapy, 1059 (38.9%) patients achieved the therapeutic target of low disease activity and remission. Age ≥ 50 years (adjusted OR 0.70 [95% CI 0.59–0.83]; p < 0.001), high baseline disease activity (adjusted OR 0.48 [95% CI 0.41–0.57]; p < 0.001), csDMARD monotherapy other than MTX (adjusted OR 0.55 [95% CI 0.41–0.73]; p < 0.001), and the use of b/tsDMARDs without a csDMARD combination (adjusted OR 0.57 [95% CI 0.36–0.87]; p = 0.011) were associated with lower target attainment rates. For patients who did not achieve the treatment target after initial therapy, the use of b/tsDMARDs increased after 2020, although the extent of therapeutic escalation remained suboptimal.

Conclusion

Treatment of patients with ERA in China has become more standardized. Adherence to guideline‐directed therapeutic regimens has emerged as a significant determinant of therapeutic target achievement. The increased prevalence of b/tsDMARDs would benefit more patients in ameliorating the disease.
Body mass index trajectories from birth to adolescence and associated factors in the PARIS cohort
Authors: Lefebvre Léa , Nur Riem , Grunemwald Thomas , Hamrene Karima , Roda Céline , Momas Isabelle
Published: January 2025

Aim

Development of body mass index (BMI) trajectories is essential for understanding childhood overweight, a public health concern. This study aimed to identify BMI trajectories from birth to adolescence and examine associated factors in the Pollution and Asthma Risk: an Infant Study (PARIS) birth cohort.

Methods

Data on height, weight, birth parameters, lifestyle, parental weight status and stress were collected via questionnaires and health check‐ups. BMI z‐score (BMIz) trajectories were developed using group‐based trajectory modelling on anthropometric data collected at least six times. Associated factors were investigated in multivariable multinomial logistic regression models, adjusted for confounders.

Results

Five BMIz trajectories were identified in 540 adolescents. The early high stable BMI trajectory grouped participants who reached overweight status in early childhood. Four trajectories remained within the normal weight status: low stable BMI, continuous decrease BMI, continuous increase BMI, and early increase and slight decrease BMI trajectories. Compared with low stable BMI, high BMI trajectories were associated with higher parental weight status, early rebound age, excessive TV watching, lower food avoidance score, stressful events in early life and parent–child relationship stress.

Conclusion

High BMI trajectories shared several modifiable factors, emphasising the need for multifactorial interventions to tackle the childhood overweight epidemic.
Arrhythmogenic calmodulin variants D131E and Q135P disrupt interaction with the L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channel (Cav1.2) and reduce Ca2+‐dependent inactivation
Authors: Gupta Nitika , Richards Ella M. B. , Morris Vanessa S. , Morris Rachael , Wadmore Kirsty , Held Marie , McCormick Liam , Prakash Ohm , Dart Caroline , Helassa Nordine
Published: January 2025

Aim

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) and catecholaminergic polymorphism ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) are inherited cardiac disorders often caused by mutations in ion channels. These arrhythmia syndromes have recently been associated with calmodulin (CaM) variants. Here, we investigate the impact of the arrhythmogenic variants D131E and Q135P on CaM's structure–function relationship. Our study focuses on the L‐type calcium channel Cav1.2, a crucial component of the ventricular action potential and excitation–contraction coupling.

Methods

We used circular dichroism (CD), 1H‐15N HSQC NMR, and trypsin digestion to determine the structural and stability properties of CaM variants. The affinity of CaM for Ca2+ and interaction of Ca2+/CaM with Cav1.2 (IQ and NSCaTE domains) were investigated using intrinsic tyrosine fluorescence and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), respectively. The effect of CaM variants of Cav1.2 activity was determined using HEK293‐Cav1.2 cells (B'SYS) and whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology.

Results

Using a combination of protein biophysics and structural biology, we show that the disease‐associated mutations D131E and Q135P mutations alter apo/CaM structure and stability. In the Ca2+‐bound state, D131E and Q135P exhibited reduced Ca2+ binding affinity, significant structural changes, and altered interaction with Cav1.2 domains (increased affinity for Cav1.2‐IQ and decreased affinity for Cav1.2‐NSCaTE). We show that the mutations dramatically impair Ca2+‐dependent inactivation (CDI) of Cav1.2, which would contribute to abnormal Ca2+ influx, leading to disrupted Ca2+ handling, characteristic of cardiac arrhythmia syndromes.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms behind arrhythmia caused by calmodulin mutations, contributing to our understanding of cardiac syndromes at a molecular and cellular level.
Network Meta‐Analysis: Comparison of Endoscopic Dysplasia Detection Technologies in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Shehab Mohammad , Al‐Hindawi Ahmed , Alrashed Fatema , Murthy Sanjay , Bisschops Raf , Hoentjen Frank , Barkun Alan , Singh Siddharth , Bessissow Talat
Published: January 2025

Background

Novel colorectal cancer endoscopic surveillance techniques for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have recently been developed.

Aims

Compare the efficacy of currently available techniques for dysplasia detection in colonic IBD.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search from inception to March 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or prospective cohort studies enrolling adults with IBD and having surveillance colonoscopy for dysplasia screening. Primary outcome was the number of dysplastic lesions (per‐lesion analysis). Secondary outcome was the number of patients with dysplasia (per‐patient analysis). We assessed endpoints using the frequentist NMA random effect model.

Results

We included 25 studies (22 RCTs). 4837 patients met eligibility criteria (850 total dysplastic lesions; 105 with advanced dysplasia). Nine different screening techniques were studied. In per‐lesion analysis, dye‐based chromoendoscopy (DCE) ranked the highest (83%) per SUCRA ranking. DCE was superior to HD‐WLE (OR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.06–3.00). There were no significant differences between NBI and DCE, HD‐WLE with SR or CEM in head‐to‐head comparisons. In a sub‐analysis confined to ulcerative colitis (UC), DCE ranked highest (98%) with per‐lesion analysis, and was superior to NBI (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.03–2.77).

Conclusions

HD‐WLE‐SR, DCE and CEM demonstrated superiority over other techniques for detection of dysplasia in colonic IBD. DCE was superior for dysplasia detection in colonic IBD. DCE was superior to HD‐WLE in colonic IBD. DCE was the best technique in UC. Further studies to compare HD‐WLE‐SR and NBI with DCE are warranted to ascertain performance equivalency and define the optimal surveillance technique.
“Fly to New World”: Meeting report of the 16th Japanese Drosophila research conference (JDRC16)
Authors: Yoshizawa Haruka , Kuranaga Erina
Published: January 2025

The 16th Japanese Drosophila Research Conference (JDRC16) was held at the Sendai International Center from September 17 to 19 2024. It had been 2 years since the last JDRC15 held in Nagoya. The conference brought together 231 researchers, including 22 researchers from overseas, creating a vibrant and diverse platform for scientific exchange. Prof. Shigeo Hayashi of RIKEN BDR delivered a keynote lecture, and his groundbreaking ideas and research captivated the audience. Over the 3 days, the conference featured 53 oral presentations across 11 sessions and 2 special sessions, as well as 128 poster presentations, all of which fostered stimulating discussions and the exchange of innovative ideas. The reception provided an additional opportunity for researchers to engage in meaningful dialogue while enjoying Sendai's renowned specialties. Held under clear autumn skies in a great nature along the river, this conference painted a beautiful contrast to the heated discussions in the venue. Consequently, this conference fully contributed to the mission proffered by Prof. Hayashi, “Fly to New World,” expanding the insights gained from flies into new and unexplored scientific areas.
Diabetes visits in paediatric versus adult clinics for young adults (YA) with T1D: Pre‐pandemic and pandemic care
Authors: Shapira Amit , Tinsley Liane J. , Toschi Elena , Laffel Lori M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Young adults (YA) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) are at high risk of worsening glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) with fewer follow‐up visits. We examined the association of demographic and diabetes characteristics with care utilization, including in‐person and telehealth visits, pre‐ (1 April 2019 to 15 March 2020) and during the COVID‐19 pandemic (30 March 2020 to 15 March 2021) for YA (ages: 18–30) with T1D, comparing those seen in paediatric versus adult diabetes clinics at a single diabetes centre.

Methods

Data were obtained from the electronic health record for YA with a pre‐pandemic HbA1c. We performed descriptive statistics to describe the sample and paired t‐tests to compare visits before and during the pandemic.

Results

Data from 1762 YA (54% male; age 24.0 ± 3.6 (M ± SD) years; HbA1c 66 ± 18 mmol/mol (8.2 ± 1.6%) revealed that in the full sample, mean pre‐pandemic visit frequency was 3.5 ± 3.4 and mean pandemic visit frequency was 3.1 ± 4.1 (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the pandemic visit frequency declined in the adult clinic regardless of sex, pump therapy, CGM use, and pre‐pandemic HbA1c, whereas in the paediatric clinic, visit frequency was only reduced for those with HbA1c <53 mmol/mol (<7%) but was otherwise maintained.

Conclusions

In this diabetes centre, the paediatric clinic maintained diabetes care delivery during the pandemic (30 March 2020 to 15 March 2021) to YA with glycaemic control above target, suggesting that preservation of remote care delivery should be considered in this high‐risk group.
Educating We the People: Jean‐Luc Nancy and the Spirit of 1968
Authors: Arcilla René V.
Published: January 2025

This essay by René Arcilla examines Jean‐Luc Nancy's understanding of the “spirit of 1968.” It argues that Nancy's concept can guide a humanist approach to educating citizens for participation in democratic self‐government, one that responds to the political challenges facing us today. In particular, it develops a critique of factionalizing identity politics and seeks to renew what it means to address, and be addressed by, “we the people.” The essay proposes an idea of what democracy seeks to affirm: our social being.
Additive Effects of Multiple Global Change Factors on Plant Invasions Are Common
Authors: Shi Xiong , Liu Yanjie , van Kleunen Mark
Published: January 2025

Quantifying how co‐acting global change factors (GCFs) influence plant invasion is crucial for predicting future invasion dynamics. We did a meta‐analysis to assess pairwise effects of five GCFs (elevated CO2, drought, eutrophication, increased rainfall and warming) on native and alien plants. We found that alien plants, compared to native plants, suffered less or benefited more for four of the eight pairwise GCF combinations, and that all GCFs acted additively. Subgroup analysis showed that the relative benefits of alien over native plants were particularly apparent when they grew in competition with one another, and that the results were largely the same when the aliens were restricted to naturalised or invasive species. Our meta‐analysis provides evidence that additive effects of multiple global change factors on plant invasions are common, and thus that with the ongoing global environmental changes, the risk of plant invasion continues to increase.
Understanding Wealth‐Tax Rates: An Investor‐Utility Mapping to Capital‐Gains Taxes
Authors: Farago Adam , Hjalmarsson Erik , Kiss Tamás
Published: January 2025

Wealth‐tax rates are formulated as fractions of a capital stock, rather than fractions of income from capital, which makes them difficult to compare with other (income‐based) tax rates. We derive investor‐utility comparisons between wealth‐tax rates and realized capital‐gains tax rates, capturing two crucial features absent in naive comparisons: Risk‐aversion and investment horizon, both of which magnify the effect of wealth taxes vis‐ à‐vis capital‐gains taxes. In numerical calibrations, we show that whereas a 1‐percent wealth tax might naively be judged equivalent to a 10% capital‐gains tax, a more accurate figure for a long‐run risk‐averse investor is 25%.