bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR‐423 Coding Region Genetic Polymorphism rs8067576 May Associate With the Risk of Developing Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion: A Case‐Control Study in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Su Xing , Yu Wan‐Ying , Zhao Ming‐Jia , Hu Yi , Li Ying , Wang Xue‐Qin , Zhang Lu , Lv Xiao‐Dan , Ma Xu , Xia Hong‐Fei
Published: January 2025

Background

Our previous study has identified an association of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the miR‐423 gene with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). The presence of additional RSA‐linked SNPs in the miR‐423 gene remains unclear.

Methods

We evaluated polymorphisms in the coding region of miR‐423 in Han Chinese women with unexplained RSA (URSA).

Results

Significant differences were observed in the genotype and allele distribution of miR‐423 rs8067576 between patients with RSA and control subjects. A robust association was found between an elevated RSA incidence and the presence of A/T heterozygosity in miR‐423 rs8067576, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26 to 2.47, p = 0.000292). The rare allele T in the pre‐miR‐423 sequence was shown to cause a discernible structural change and a reduced ΔG value. Compared with the A allele, the rare T allele promoted cell proliferation. Furthermore, compared with the T allele, the A allele in the rs8067576 polymorphism exhibited a greater ability to inhibit the translation of proliferation‐associated 2 group 4 (Pa2g4), which is the functional target of miR‐423. The T allele in the rs8067576 polymorphism was also found to be more susceptible to the inhibition of cell proliferation induced by mifepristone.

Conclusions

The rs8067576 A > T polymorphism in the miR‐423 gene may serve as a genetic susceptibility locus for RSA. This polymorphism appears to contribute to an increased risk of acquiring URSA in humans by destroying mature miR‐423.
MHC Class II‐Expressing Mucosal Mast Cells Promote Intestinal Mast Cell Hyperplasia in a Mouse Model of Food Allergy
Authors: Oishi Kenji , Nakano Nobuhiro , Ota Masamu , Inage Eisuke , Izawa Kumi , Kaitani Ayako , Ando Tomoaki , Hara Mutsuko , Ohtsuka Yoshikazu , Nishiyama Chiharu , Ogawa Hideoki , Kitaura Jiro , Okumura Ko , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: January 2025

Background

IgE‐mediated food allergy is accompanied by mucosal mast cell (MMC) hyperplasia in the intestinal mucosa. Intestinal MMC numbers correlate with the severity of food allergy symptoms. However, the mechanisms by which MMCs proliferate excessively are poorly understood. Here, we clarify the role of newly identified MHC class II (MHCII)‐expressing MMCs in the effector phase of IgE‐mediated food allergy.

Methods

Mice reconstituted with MHCII‐deficient or wild‐type MMCs were used to generate a mouse mode of IgE‐mediated food allergy. We assessed the extent of intestinal MMC hyperplasia and the severity of hypothermia in these mice. In addition, we performed in vitro antigen presentation assay using induced MHCII‐expressing MMCs generated from bone marrow cells to evaluate the effect of CD4+ T cell activation on MMC proliferation.

Results

In food‐allergic mice, we identified the appearance of MHCII‐expressing MMCs in the intestinal mucosa and showed that MMC hyperplasia was suppressed in mice with MHCII‐deficient MMCs compared to mice with wild‐type MMCs. In vitro assays demonstrated that MHCII‐expressing MMCs incorporate food antigens directly and through the high‐affinity IgE receptor FcεRI‐mediated endocytosis and activate antigen‐specific CD4+ T cells from food‐allergic mice by antigen presentation. Activated CD4+ T cells secrete IL‐4 and large amounts of IL‐5, which enhance production of the mast cell growth factor IL‐9 by IL‐33‐activated MMCs. Excess IL‐9 causes excessive MMC proliferation, leading to the development of MMC hyperplasia.

Conclusion

Antigen presentation to CD4+ T cells by MHCII‐expressing MMCs triggers intestinal MMC hyperplasia and exacerbates IgE‐mediated food allergy.
Why do most people on dialysis not accept psychological care to increase perceptions of control in life?
Authors: de Vries Alicia M. , Ranchor Adelita V. , Westerhuis Ralf , Visser Annemieke , Franssen Casper F. M. , Navis Gerjan J. , Schroevers Maya J.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

People with chronic kidney failure (CKF) on dialysis who perceive little control in life are at risk for a reduced well‐being. We developed and tested an intervention aiming to enhance their perceptions of control. To gain insight into patients' care needs and acceptance of the intervention, we examined the prevalence of patients perceiving low control, their characteristics, and their reasons for (not) accepting the intervention.

Design

We consecutively screened 430 people on dialysis on perceived control, with those reporting low control offered to participate in the intervention study.

Methods

We used data of a Randomized Controlled Trial examining the feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of the intervention. Perceived control was assessed with the Pearlin Mastery scale.

Results

About half (55%) of the sample perceived low control, particularly those with more comorbidities. Most persons eligible for receiving the intervention did not accept the intervention (89%), especially older persons. Main reasons were experiencing little burden of perceiving low control as well as no need for care to increase perceived control.

Conclusions

A significant number of people on dialysis perceived low control in life, yet very few accepted an intervention for regaining a sense of control. In‐depth qualitative research is needed for a more comprehensive understanding of the personal experience and perceived impact of low control on health and well‐being, activities and relationships as well as people's reasons and needs for enhancing a sense of control and attitude towards psychological interventions aiming to enhance perceived control.
Does Economic Policy Uncertainty differ from other uncertainty measures? Replication of Baker, Bloom, and Davis (2016)
Authors: Bae Siye , Jo Soojin , Shim Myungkyu
Published: January 2025

This paper revisits Baker et al.'s (2016) main finding that shows the significant negative impacts of shocks to the Economic Policy Uncertainty index on the US aggregate economic activity. We focus on subsample analyses with sample periods extended to December 2022. We find that shocks to the index do not significantly affect the economy during the period from September 2008 to December 2019, in contrast to significant negative impacts found in the sample ending earlier. Interestingly, this feature is specific to the Economic Policy Uncertainty index, while other popular uncertainty measures retain downward pressures on the economy across all of the subsample periods under examination. Economic Policy Uncertainty again deters economic activity once the COVID‐19 period is included in the sample, implying that the size of shocks and/or the state of the economy may play an additional role for its transmission.
Interferons in myositis: Pathogenesis and therapy
Authors: Tawara Nozomu
Published: January 2025

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), or myositis, are a heterogeneous group of autoimmune diseases affecting skeletal muscle and other organs. Recent research has revealed the important role of interferons (IFNs) in the pathogenesis of IIMs. This review summarizes the three types of IFNs and their functions in the immune system, focusing on their association with different IIM subtypes. Dermatomyositis (DM) is strongly associated with Type I IFNs. In contrast, inclusion body myositis (IBM), polymyositis with mitochondrial pathology (PM‐mito), and anti‐synthetase syndrome (ASyS) are predominantly associated with Type II IFN. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations and their impact on muscle function. In addition, the potential of the IFN signaling pathway as a therapeutic target for IIMs will be discussed. Several clinical trials are currently underway or planned that target the IFN pathway using JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies against Type I IFNs. JAK inhibitors have shown promise in treating DM, particularly in refractory cases. However, more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety profiles in IIMs. The review concludes by highlighting the importance of ongoing research in this area and the potential for new targeted therapies in treating IIMs.
Long‐term survival outcomes in young‐onset colorectal cancer: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Cao Amy M. Y. , Lonne Michael L. R. , Clark David A.
Published: January 2025

Aim

Long‐term survival outcomes in young‐onset colorectal cancer patients are contradictory and inconsistent. Some studies report overall survival to be significantly superior compared with older adults, while others report worse survival. Worldwide, the incidence of young‐onset colorectal cancer has, alarmingly, nearly doubled since the 1990s, in stark contrast to that in those over 50 years of age. Long‐term survival in young‐onset colorectal cancer has not been explored in the Australian population. The aim of this study was to investigate cancer‐specific and overall survival up to 10 years.

Method

This was a retrospective population‐based cohort study. All colorectal cancer diagnoses between 2001 and 2020 in the state of Queensland, Australia were reviewed. Young‐onset colorectal cancer (20–49 years) was compared with late‐onset colorectal cancer (50 years+).

Results

There were 52 697 adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer in Queensland. Young‐onset colorectal cancer accounted for 7.7% of these. Young‐onset colorectal cancer had a greater proportion of Stage III and IV disease than the late‐onset group (66% vs. 59%, p < 0.001). Despite this, young‐onset colorectal cancer had statistically significant improved overall survival at all time points to 10 years (p < 0.001). Stage‐for‐stage cancer‐specific survival to 10 years was superior in all stages in young‐onset colorectal cancer (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Both stage‐for‐stage cancer‐specific and overall survival were superior in young‐onset colorectal cancer compared with those aged 50 years and above, up to 10 years.
Postprandial time in tight range with faster insulin aspart compared with standard insulin aspart in youth with type 1 diabetes using automated insulin delivery
Authors: Dovč Klemen , Spanbauer Charles , Chiarle Eleonora , Bratina Natasa , Fröhlich‐Reiterer Elke , Potočnik Nejka , Zaharieva Dessi P. , Hropot Tim , Fritsch Maria , Calhoun Peter , Battelino Tadej
Published: January 2025

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess postprandial glycaemic outcomes using automated insulin delivery with faster acting insulin aspart (FIA) or standard insulin aspart (SIA) over 4 weeks in youth (aged 10–18 years) with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

We undertook a secondary analysis of postprandial glycaemic outcomes from a double‐blind, randomised, crossover study comparing FIA to SIA using an investigational version of MiniMed™ 780G. Endpoints included postprandial time in tight range (70–140 mg/dL; TITR), postprandial glucose excursions and peak glucose, and incremental area under curve (iAUC).

Results

The mean ± SD age of 30 included participants was 15.0 ± 1.7 years, 47% were male, mean HbA1c was 7.5% ± 0.9% (58 ± 9.8 mmol/mol) and the number of meals per day per participant was 3.2 ± 1.2 meals. Overall, the postprandial outcomes were improved with FIA compared with SIA. Mean glucose at the start of the meal was 151 mg/dL in the FIA group and reached a peak glucose of 194 mg/dL, compared with starting level of 151 mg/dL in the SIA group and a peak of 198 mg/dL (difference in excursion: −3.8 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval −5.8 to −1.7; p <0.001). FIA group also had a 1.9% increase in mean TITR (p = 0.02) and a 2.0‐mg/dL decrease in mean iAUC (p = 0.003). Differences in outcomes were the most noticeable for breakfast, meals with a larger amount of carbohydrates (>45 g) and participants with lower insulin‐to‐carbohydrate ratios.

Conclusions

Faster insulin formulation with AID improved postprandial glycaemic outcomes and could be a useful therapeutical option in youth with type 1 diabetes that have challenges achieving glycaemic targets.
Impact of time in tight range on all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in type 2 diabetes: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Cai Jinghao , Liu Jiechen , Lu Jingyi , Ni Jiaying , Wang Chunfang , Chen Lei , Lu Wei , Zhu Wei , Xia Tian , Zhou Jian
Published: January 2025

Aims

Currently, there is a lack of evidence regarding time in tight range (TITR) and long‐term adverse outcomes. We aimed to investigate the association between TITR and the risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A total of 6061 patients with type 2 diabetes were prospectively recruited in a single centre. TITR was measured with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) at baseline and was defined as the percentage of time in the target glucose range of 3.9–7.8 mmol/L (70–140 mg/dL) during a 24‐h period. Cox proportion hazard regression models were used to examine the association between TITR and the risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Results

During a median follow‐up period of 10.9 years, 1898 (31.3%) death events were confirmed, with 689 (11.4%) due to cardiovascular mortality. The restricted cubic spline revealed significant linear relationships between lower TITR and higher risks of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality (p for linearity <0.01). In the fully adjusted model including glycated haemoglobin A1c, each 10% decrease in TITR was associated with 4% (95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.06) increased risk of all‐cause mortality and 4% (95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.08) increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Subgroup analyses showed that the linear relationship between TITR and all‐cause mortality risk was sustained in patients with haemoglobin A1c <7.0% and patients with fasting plasma glucose <7.0 mmol/L.

Conclusions

Lower TITR is associated with an increased risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes, indicating that tight glycaemic control within the physiological range may be crucial for reducing long‐term mortality risk, especially in those with seemingly well‐controlled diabetes.
Understanding Participation in Integrated Youth Mental Health Service Research: Lessons Learned From a Feasibility Study With Jigsaw
Authors: Dhonnagáin Niall Mac , O'Reilly Aileen , O'Brien Gillian , Dooley Barbara
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Research with integrated youth mental health services (IYMHS) has been criticised for low quality, with difficulties in recruiting and retaining participants in studies which can introduce bias. This feasibility study aimed to investigate the “real‐world research” barriers and facilitators to recruitment and retention arising in a longitudinal study with Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health in Ireland, and to provide recommendations for conducting IYMHS research in future.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted to investigate recruitment and retention difficulties. Participants were young people attending Jigsaw (n = 14) and members of clinical staff (n = 29), who provided feedback on facilitators and barriers to recruiting and retaining participants in a wider youth mental health intervention study. Data were collected via online surveys. Content analysis was conducted on the findings.

Results

Facilitators included the prosocial motivation of young people to support others through research, providing incentives for participants, clear communication and information sharing, and the supportive role of parents/guardians. Identified barriers included the timing of recruitment, communication difficulties, gatekeeping, and reluctance to participate in research. Suggestions provided to address barriers in future were integrating research teams into services, addressing communication difficulties, and timing the recruitment of youth participants appropriately.

Conclusion

Where possible, IYMHS should conduct research in person in services to improve communication and reduce gatekeeping. In addition, services should consider remunerating participating young people in research and involve parents/guardians when designing research in this context.
Criminal Offending and Incarceration in United States Adults With Early Phase Psychosis and Comorbid Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Webster Kyle D. , Gunter Tracy D. , Vohs Jenifer L. , Breier Alan
Published: January 2025

Aim

Studies have shown that people experiencing early phase psychosis (EPP) are at increased risk for criminal conviction and incarceration. However, there is limited data looking at overall legal burden. To address these gaps in the literature, the goal of this study was to categorise criminal charges and convictions using the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) uniform crime reporting (UCR) program, assess frequency of incarcerations, and describe the frequency of substance use disorder (SUD) diagnoses and its relationship to criminal offending and incarceration in a well categorised EPP population.

Methods

A sample of 309 adults experiencing EPP were enrolled in a specialty care clinic. The research team expanded upon prior work and collected data from three public databases to identify legal burden in this population.

Results

Almost 50% (n = 155) of subjects had a history of a criminal charge, 34% (n = 104) of subjects had a history of criminal conviction, and 40% (n = 123) of subjects had at least one incarceration event. The most common typology of criminal offence were crimes against society. Lastly, a dual diagnosis was statistically associated with incarcerations (χ2 = 10.152, p < 0.0011), crimes against society (χ2 = 13.172, p < 0.0002), and crimes against persons (χ2 = 9.136, p < 0.0023).

Conclusions

These data highlight the high legal burden people experiencing EPP face and the need for future work to examine the risks incarceration places on this population. This work also shows the need for specialty care clinics managing EPP to be proficient in treating a dual diagnosis or the need to partner with an appropriate clinic.
Motion Artifact Removal in Functional Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy Based on Long Short‐Term Memory‐Autoencoder Model
Authors: Yang Pan , Wang Junhong , Wang Ting , Li Lihua , Xu Dongjuan , Xi Xugang
Published: January 2025

Motion artifact removal is a critical issue in functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) analysis tasks, with traditional methods relying heavily on expert‐based knowledge and optimal selection of model parameters within brain regions. In this paper, we propose a deep learning denoising model based on long short‐term memory (LSTM)‐autoencoder (viz., LSTM‐AE) to reduce motion artifacts. By training a neural network to reconstruct hemodynamic response coupled with neuronal activity, LSTM‐AE achieves positive denoising results on both our synthesized noisy simulated dataset and the real dataset. The LSTM‐AE processes the raw fNIRS in three phases: (1) Morphological feature extraction of the raw fNIRS is conducted through the encoder module. (2) The LSTM module captures temporal correlations between individual samples to enhance features. (3) The decoder module recovers and reconstructs the morphological feature information of fNIRS from the latent space. Finally, clean reconstructed fNIRS is generated at the output layer. We compare our proposed method with existing calibration algorithms for hemodynamic response estimation using the following metrics: mean square error (MSE), Pearson's correlation (R2), signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and percent deviation ratio (PDR). The proposed LSTM‐AE method outperforms conventional methods, demonstrating an improvement in all these metrics. Additionally, the proposed LSTM‐AE method shows statistically significant differences from other motion artifact algorithms in terms of effectiveness (p < 0.01, significance level α = 0.05). This study demonstrates the potential of deep network architectures to remove motion artifacts in fNIRS data.
Prioritizing Brain Health in Youth: Bringing Neuroscience to Society and Informing Policy, Lessons Learnt from the European Brain Council Expert Meeting Held at the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2024
Authors: Dickson Suzanne L. , Tracey Irene , Cirulli Francesca , Kas Martien J. H. , Konradsson‐Geuken Åsa , Rostasy Kevin , Kestens Eva , Arango Celso , Mohr Pavel , Balazs Judit , Simon Judit , Weemaes Karolien , Boselli Simone , Hall Jennifer , Asakawa Tasia , Quoidbach Vinciane
Published: January 2025

Good brain health plays a significant role in an individual's well‐being and profoundly impacts the collective economy and society. Brain development does not stop at birth, and some aspects continue throughout childhood and adolescence, allowing the full development of cognitive functions. Different determinants related to physical health, healthy environments, safety and security, life‐long learning and social connection as well as access to quality services influence the way our brains develop, adapt and respond to stress and adversity. Ongoing progress in neurobiology and cognitive neuroscience allows the design of better prevention and intervention strategies to help avoid brain deficits and/or limit their impact and maintain brain health. The European Brain Council (EBC) convened an expert meeting during the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) Forum 2024 to address youth brain health challenges. In recent years, the importance of brain health has garnered significant attention across scientific, medical and policy‐making communities. Although much focus has traditionally been on neurodegenerative conditions affecting the elderly, a paradigm shift towards prioritizing brain health in youth is both timely and necessary. This shift can profoundly impact individual lives and society, necessitating an interdisciplinary approach that brings neuroscience to the forefront of public health and informs evidence‐based policy. The topic is of utmost importance as EBC launched this year a new campaign on No Health Without Brain Health rallying support with its member organizations and the wider brain community for the increased prioritization of brain health on EU health and research agendas.
Functional connectivity and metabolic brain alterations in sleepwalkers
Authors: Mainieri Greta , Rochat Magali Jane , Cantoni Elena , Sighinolfi Giovanni , Mitolo Micaela , Loddo Giuseppe , Mignani Francesco , Mondini Susanna , Lodi Raffaele , Provini Federica , Tonon Caterina
Published: January 2025

Objective

Disorders of arousal (DoA) are characterized by an intermediate state between wakefulness and deep sleep, leading to incomplete awakenings from NREM sleep. Multimodal studies have shown subtle neurophysiologic alterations even during wakefulness in DoA. The aim of this study was to explore the brain functional connectivity in DoA and the metabolic profile of the anterior and posterior cingulate cortex, given its pivotal role in cognitive and emotional processing.

Methods

Fifteen consecutive patients with DoA (9 males, mean age 26.3 ± 7.7) and 15 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (8 males, mean age 25.8 ± 3.6) were enrolled. All participants underwent a protocol including sleep and psychological evaluation scales and multimodal brain MRI with resting‐state functional MRI and 1H‐MR spectroscopy.

Results

The independent component analysis disclosed an altered resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) in the patients' sensory motor network, with a higher connectivity strength in opercular cortex, precuneus, occipital pole, and lingual gyrus. The seed‐based analysis revealed a decreased FC between posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and several cerebral areas. Finally, spectroscopic imaging revealed a reduced content of glutamine in the PCC (p < 0.001).

Interpretation

The increased connectivity in the sensory‐motor network of DoA patients could constitute a “facilitatory medium” enhancing motor circuit activation, while the connectivity and metabolic alterations of PCC might represent a trait functional feature, contributing to a dysfunctional arousal process and the difficulty to reach a complete awareness during DoA episodes. In addition, these alterations at rest might be related to daytime impairment reported by patients, requiring new strategies for DoA management.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Perceived Leadership Behaviours of Nurses and Hospital Safety Culture: A Study With the Structural Equation Model
Authors: Ünal Aysun , Yıldırım Nezaket , Öncel Selma
Published: January 2025

Background

Work environments that support patient safety initiatives are important for quality service and patient outcomes. The relationship between the leadership behaviours of nurse managers and safety culture, which has the potential to support these initiatives, constitutes one of the most important knowledge gaps.

Objectives

The study aimed to determine the relationship between nurses' perceived leadership behaviours and hospital safety culture and the factors affecting them.

Design

We tested the theoretical model using structural equation modelling with the AMOS 21 program.

Methods

The research was conducted with 134 nurses in two public hospitals in the south of Türkiye. Data were collected between October and December 2021 using the Leadership Behaviour Questionnaire and the Patient Safety Culture Hospital Questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis used to evaluate the data of the study. Structural equation modelling analysis and confirmatory factor analysis performed to test the research hypotheses.

Results

The study found that non‐punitive attitudes towards the mistakes had a full mediating effect on overall perception of safety interaction with employee‐oriented leadership and high‐level hospital interventions (β = −0.510, 95% CI −1.006/−0.076), and change had partly mediating effect on overall perception of safety interaction with change‐oriented leadership (β = −0.510, 95% CI −1.043/−0.053).

Conclusions

It is clear that if nurse managers are to improve the staff's patient safety culture, they should develop change‐oriented leadership skills by identifying adverse events and risks and motivating staff to learn from errors without taking punitive measures. In this context, healthcare organizations should evaluate the leadership qualities of managers. Managers at all levels can make plans to develop leadership behaviours that will play a facilitating role in improving patient safety.
Multifaceted Analysis of Lactobacillus plantarum DMR14 Reveals Promising Antidiabetic Properties Through In Vivo Assays and Molecular Simulations
Authors: Islam Shirmin , Biswas Suvro , Islam Md. Ariful , Biswas Jui , Dutta Amit Kumar , Mohiuddin Golam Gaus , Saleh Md. Abu , Zaman Shahriar
Published: January 2025

Due to the growing concern about diabetes worldwide, we investigated the antidiabetic potential of Lactobacillus plantarum DMR14, assessing its effects on the diabetic mice and identifying safe, bioactive compounds targeting DPP4 protein for drug development through various methods, including in vivo assays, GC–MS analysis and molecular docking simulations. The animal experiments showed that after 3 weeks of treatment, the blood sugar levels of mice given the bacteria were reduced by 35.03% compared to baseline. The treatment also significantly lowered blood lipids such as triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, but did not affect HDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, we identified three compounds that effectively targeted a protein (DPP4) involved in diabetes (PDB ID: 4A5S). These compounds were predicted to be safe for absorption, processing and elimination by the body, and showed no signs of inducing cancer in computer simulations. Further simulations indicated that these compounds bind stably to the protein over time. Diabetic mice treated with Lactobacillus plantarum DMR14 exhibited improved organ health, reduced glucose levels and better metabolic markers. Computer analysis suggested compounds that could enhance enzyme inhibition, indicating potential antidiabetic properties in this strain. These suggested compounds could be considered potential candidates for developing antidiabetic drugs.
Identification and Validation of a m6A‐Related Long Noncoding RNA Prognostic Model in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jiang Peng , Chu Mingfei , Liang Yu
Published: January 2025

Accumulating research indicates that N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification plays a pivotal role in colorectal cancer (CRC). Hence, investigating the m6A‐related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) significantly improves therapeutic strategies and prognostic assessments. This study aimed to develop and validate a prognostic model based on m6A‐related lncRNAs to improve the prediction of clinical outcomes and identify potential immunological mechanisms in CRC. We obtained high‐throughput CRC data from The Cancer Genome Atlas to identify a prognostic model based on m6A‐related lncRNAs. Then, the model was constructed and validated through LASSO analysis and Cox regression using R software. The clinical applicability was enhanced by developing a nomogram. We further conducted experiments to reveal the biological function of LINC00543. The prognostic model based on eight m6A‐related lncRNAs exhibited impressive accuracy, achieving an area under the receiver‐operating curve value of 0.753, 0.682 and 0.706 for predictions after 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively. The Kaplan–Meier analysis confirmed the consistency of the model across different pathological characteristics, with a high‐risk group showing a poorer prognosis. Furthermore, the model was linked to immune function, particularly the type I interferon response, through gene set enrichment analysis and experimental validation. Our study presented a m6A‐related lncRNA prognostic model for CRC with potential clinical utility. The model not only provided improved accuracy over traditional staging but also offered insights into the immunological mechanisms of CRC, facilitating personalised medicine approaches.
Evaluating the Impact of a Safe Exercise Training on Clinician Knowledge and Self‐Efficacy in Managing Dysfunctional Exercise in an Eating Disorder Treatment Setting
Authors: Quesnel Danika A. , Cooper Marita , Cook Brian , Calogero Rachel M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Dysfunctional exercise (DEX) is common among individuals with an eating disorder (ED) and poses significant challenges to treatment and recovery. While safe and nutritionally supported physical activity can enhance treatment outcomes without hindering weight restoration, clinicians often hesitate to address DEX with their patients. This mixed‐method study aimed to evaluate the impact of a Safe Exercise at Every Stage (SEES) informed training on clinician knowledge and self‐efficacy in managing DEX during ED treatment.

Methods

Clinicians from a national ED centre completed measures of knowledge and self‐efficacy about managing DEX before (n = 96) and after (n = 44) a synchronous virtual training. A subset of participants (n = 7) participated in semi‐structured interviews to gather their perceptions of exercise in the context of EDs and feedback on the training.

Results

Paired sample t‐tests revealed a significant increase in both self‐efficacy and knowledge following the SEES training. Thematic analysis identified three key themes: (1) the Current State, (2) the Training Impact and (3) bridging the Gap Through Staff and Community Support. Results are contextualized within the broader ED field, highlighting how training and policy changes can enhance clinician confidence in managing DEX.

Conclusion

DEX continues to be preceived as a core ED symptom. To improve its managment clinician training and shifts in overarching field ideologies are needed. Providing programme‐wide training is fundamental to equipping clinicians with the skills needed to address DEX and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
The planktonic freshwater ciliate Balanion planctonicum (Ciliophora, Prostomatea): A cryptic species complex or a “complex species”?
Authors: Schalch‐Schuler Martina , Bassin Barbara , Andrei Adrian‐Stefan , Dirren‐Pitsch Gianna , Waller Katherine , Hofer Cyrill , Pernthaler Jakob , Posch Thomas
Published: January 2025

The globally distributed ciliate Balanion planctonicum is a primary consumer of phytoplankton spring blooms. Due to its small size (~20 μm), identification and quantification by molecular tools is preferable as an alternative to the laborious counting of specimen in quantitative protargol stains. However, previous sequencing of the 18S rDNA V9 region of B. planctonicum from Lake Zurich (Switzerland) and subsequent quantification by fluorescence in situ hybridization yielded significantly lower cell numbers than using morphotype counting. This raised the question of whether B. planctonicum shows a cryptic diversity or whether it is just a ‘complex species’ with intra‐clonal polymorphisms. Over three years, we established numerous monoclonal cultures, and long‐read sequencing of rDNA operons revealed four distinct dominant haplotypes (BpHs 1–4). The gene sequences of BpHs 1 and 3 differed by 6% and did not share intra‐clonal polymorphisms, providing evidence for two distinct clades. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses corroborate the sister relationship between Balanion and Askenasia (plus Hexasterias and Radiosperma). Morphologically, the two Balanion clades are nearly indistinguishable with small differences in macronucleus size and in the cell length to width ratio. CARD‐FISH analyses indicated that the diversity of B. planctonicum is even more extensive with still unidentified clades.
Empathy During Crises: Investigating Attitudes, Tolerance, and Ingroup–Outgroup Dynamics in Response to Refugee Movements
Authors: Demel Ronja , Masch Lena , Schieferdecker David , Schwander Hanna , Hutter Swen , Specht Jule
Published: January 2025

Objective

In times of societal crises, it is pivotal to understand and share others' feelings. Yet, the role of empathy in fostering prosocial responses during societal crises has not gained enough attention. Our study uses the onset of Russia's war on Ukraine to examine three key questions: (1) Is empathy related to attitudes toward pro‐refugee policies? (2) Does empathy correlate with a higher tolerance for diverse opinions on refugee policies? (3) Is empathy linked to perceived interpersonal closeness toward social in‐ and outgroups, including refugees?

Methods and Results

Using observational data from online surveys conducted with a largely representative quota sample from Germany (N = 1199–1631) during the initial months of the war, we found that empathy was associated with significantly higher support of pro‐refugee policies, driven primarily by empathic concern. Additionally, more empathetic individuals exhibited greater opinion diversity and showed smaller distinctions in perceived interpersonal closeness between in‐ and outgroups.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the critical role of empathy in fostering solidarity and social cohesion during societal crises.
Intraoperative methylene blue staining is effective as a single mapping technique in the identification of sentinel lymph nodes in dogs with low‐grade mast cell tumours
Authors: Zanardi S. , Guerra D. , Sabattini S. , Foglia A. , Del Magno S. , Cola V. , Pisoni L. , Ciammaichella L. , Faroni E. , Agnoli C. , Renzi A. , Marconato L.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the association between methylene blue staining pattern and the presence of histologic nodal metastasis in dogs with low‐grade mast cell tumour in low‐resource settings for the efficient diagnosis of lymphatic spread.

Methods

Dogs with a single, cytologically low‐grade mast cell tumour and no documented distant metastases were prospectively included and underwent surgery. Along with primary mast cell tumour removal, intraoperative sentinel lymph node mapping with peritumoral mast cell tumour injection and regional lymph node excision, regardless of whether blue dye was visible in the lymph node, were performed. Association between the lymph nodes with dye uptake (stained) and their metastatic status was evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐five dogs were enrolled, and at least one stained lymph node was identified in 22 (88%) of them. A total of 49 lymphocentres were surgically inspected, and a total of 53 lymph nodes were removed. Twenty‐nine (54.7%) lymph nodes were stained, and 24 (45.3%) were unstained. Among the 29 stained lymph nodes, there were seven (24.1%) HN0, seven (24.1%) HN1, seven (24.1%) HN2 and eight (27.7%) HN3. Among the 24 unstained lymph nodes, 17 (70.8%) were HN0 and seven (29.2%) were HN1. No complications related to methylene blue injection were recorded.

Clinical Significance

Peritumoral methylene blue injection is a cost‐effective alternative technique for detecting sentinel lymph node for dogs with mast cell tumours, particularly in economically constrained settings. All metastatic lymph nodes (HN2/HN3) were stained, and all unstained lymph nodes were non‐metastatic (HN0/HN1).
The Influence of Substance Use on Sleep Duration Among South Korean Adolescents by Sex: A Secondary Analysis
Authors: Chung Sophia Jihey , Choi Jiwon
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Although insufficient sleep influences cognitive function and physical and mental health in adolescents, many still get less sleep than the recommended duration. Adolescent substance use, including alcohol and tobacco, influences sleep disturbance. However, sex differences in the relationship between substance use and sleep health have not been extensively studied. This study aimed to examine the effect of substance use on sleep duration among South Korean adolescents by sex.

Design and Methods

This secondary data analysis used the 4th Wave of the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey 2018 and applied a multiple regression analysis. Tobacco use and alcohol consumption were assessed by asking whether the participants had ever smoked or drunk alcohol during the previous year. Sleep duration was calculated based on the participants' reports related to sleep and awake times on weekdays and weekends.

Results

For male adolescents, substance use, either tobacco use or alcohol consumption, did not significantly affect sleep duration, whereas for female adolescents, alcohol consumption was found to influence sleep duration. Age and subjective health were additional influential factors for adolescents' sleep duration, regardless of sex.

Practice Implications

Interventions for alcohol consumption should be considered to enhance sleep health in female South Korean adolescents. Further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of sleep health, particularly the effects of substance use, among male adolescents.
Association of MASLD Phenotypes With Liver Fibrosis in Hepatitis C: The Role of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Authors: Elgretli Wesal , Shengir Mohamed , Sasson Solomon , Ramanakumar Agnihotram V. , Cinque Felice , Ballestreros Luz Esther Ramos , Deschenes Marc , Wong Phil , Chen Tianyan , Kronfli Nadine , Saeed Sahar , Keeshan Alexa , Tandon Saniya , Cooper Curtis , Sebastiani Giada
Published: January 2025

Steatotic liver disease is prevalent among people with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The new definition of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) emphasises the metabolic drivers of steatosis and recognises its frequent coexistence with other chronic liver diseases, including HCV. We aimed to evaluate the association of coexisting MASLD and HCV with liver fibrosis. Individuals with HCV who underwent transient elastography (TE) with associated controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) were included from two clinical centres. MASLD and significant liver fibrosis were defined as the presence of steatosis (CAP ≥ 275 dB/m) with at least one cardiometabolic risk factor, and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) ≥ 7.1 kPa measured by TE, respectively. Associated cofactors of significant liver fibrosis were determined using stepwise regression and cross‐validation by LASSO models to select confounders. Among 590 participants, 31% were diagnosed with MASLD. The prevalence of significant liver fibrosis was the highest among people with MASLD (58%) followed by HCV‐related steatosis (45%) and the non‐steatosis group (39%). After adjusting for potential confounders, MASLD was associated with significant liver fibrosis (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–4.87). Furthermore, specific MASLD phenotypes including diabetes, hypertension and overweight were associated with significant liver fibrosis, with aORs of 4.76 (95% CI 2.16–10.49), 3.44 (95% CI 1.77–6.68) and 2.54 (95% CI 1.27–5.07), respectively. In conclusion, MASLD is associated with liver fibrosis in people with HCV, specifically the diabetes, overweight and hypertensive phenotypes. Beyond pursuing a virological cure, healthcare providers should prioritise managing metabolic conditions, particularly diabetes, hypertension and obesity.
Whole‐Genome Evaluation of Genetic Rescue: The Case of a Curiously Isolated and Endangered Butterfly
Authors: MacDonald Zachary G. , Dupuis Julian R. , Glasier James R. N. , Sissons Robert , Moehrenschlager Axel , Shaffer H. Bradley , Sperling Felix A. H.
Published: January 2025

Genetic rescue, or the translocation of individuals among populations to augment gene flow, can help ameliorate inbreeding depression and loss of adaptive potential in small and isolated populations. Genetic rescue is currently under consideration for an endangered butterfly in Canada, the Half‐moon Hairstreak (Satyrium semiluna). A small, unique population persists in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, isolated from other populations by more than 400 km. However, whether genetic rescue would actually be helpful has not been evaluated. Here, we generate the first chromosome‐level genome assembly and whole‐genome resequence data for the species. We find that the Alberta population maintains extremely low genetic diversity and is genetically very divergent from the nearest populations in British Columbia and Montana. Runs of homozygosity suggest this is due to a long history of inbreeding, and coalescent analyses show that the population has been small and isolated, yet stable, for up to 40k years. When a population like this maintains its viability despite inbreeding and low genetic diversity, it has likely undergone purging of deleterious recessive alleles and could be threatened by the reintroduction of such alleles via genetic rescue. Ecological niche modelling indicates that the Alberta population also exhibits environmental associations that are atypical of the species. Together, these evolutionary and ecological divergences suggest that population crosses may result in outbreeding depression. We therefore infer that genetic rescue has a relatively unique potential to be harmful rather than helpful for this population at present. However, because of its reduced adaptive potential, the Alberta population may still benefit from future genetic rescue as climate and habitat conditions change. Proactive experimental population crosses should therefore be completed to assess reproductive compatibility and progeny fitness.
Health, Well‐Being, Gender, and Dignity in Nursing Care for Older Adults
Authors: Domínguez Wendy Johana Gómez , de Caballero Helena Guerrero , Llanos Lina María García
Published: January 2025

This article reflects on the concepts of health, well‐being, gender, and dignity when providing nursing care to older adults, focusing on their wisdom and the phenomena that can affect their health or improve their quality of life. These concepts are analyzed based on the current health conditions of older adults and their needs, on the perspectives of authors in this field of research, and on Patricia Benner's philosophy: the integration of science, clinical wisdom, and ethics in nursing practice. Furthermore, this article aims at contributing to the health, well‐being, gender, and dignity of older adults, despite the discrimination that they may face, as well as to the reality of nursing practice. As such, this study stems from the observed reality, experiences as caregivers and reflection of nurses committed to the values of the profession. Therefore, the article begins with the conceptualization of health, well‐being, gender, and dignity, subsequently analyzing the health–disease status of older adults from a gender perspective, addressing nursing care for older adults based on Patricia Benner's philosophy and concluding with reflections on nursing practice for a better future for older adults.
Navigating Dementia and Delirium: Balancing Identity and Interests in Advance Directives
Authors: Rutenkröger M.
Published: January 2025

The moral authority of advance directives (ADs) in the context of persons living with dementia (PLWD) has sparked a multifaceted debate, encompassing concerns such as authenticity and the appropriate involvement of caregivers. Dresser critiques ADs based on Parfit's account of numeric personal identity, using the often‐discussed case of a PLWD called Margo. She claims that dementia leads to a new manifestation of Margo emerging, which then contracts pneumonia. Dworkin proposes that critical interests, concerning one's higher moral values, trump experiential interests (things or activities one enjoys because they are pleasurable). Dresser argues that Margo's current experiential interests override her self's critical ones, as they contribute significantly to her quality of life (QoL). To render the argument more realistic, I introduce a variation in which Margo develops delirium, a common and severe comorbidity in PLWD. I argue that delirium could precipitate a sudden decline in experiential interests and, consequently, a deterioration in QoL. Given the uncertain trajectory of Margo's illness, I contend that her competent self's critical interests, as reflected in her AD, along with her right to self‐ownership, should take precedence over current experiential interests. Thus, the AD possesses moral authority. However, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to offer consultations for PLWD, facilitating an understanding of ADs and enabling a shared decision‐making process. Such consultations are essential for honouring the autonomy and dignity of PLWD, ensuring that their values and preferences guide ethical decision‐making amidst the complexities of dementia care.
On My Own: Boosting Financial Literacy Among Disadvantaged Youth in Peru
Authors: Boyd Chris M. , Ramos Duffaut Jaime
Published: January 2025

Young adults can greatly benefit from financial education because they are starting to earn money and manage their personal finances. We use a randomised control trial to estimate the impacts of #PorMiCuenta (#OnMyOwn), an online asynchronous edutainment‐based financial education program, on financial literacy among poor post‐secondary scholarship recipients. We find this program has a large take‐up (74%) and it improves financial knowledge (by 19.7 percentage points (p.p.)), abilities (22.8 p.p.), attitudes (23.7 p.p.), and behaviour (16.5 p.p.). Our findings suggest this type of financial education approach can be very effective and useful for targeting disadvantaged young adults.