bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intestine epithelial–specific hypoxia-inducible factor-1α overexpression ameliorates western diet–induced MASLD
Authors: Xu Manman , Taylor Madison S. , Hill Bradford G. , Li Xiaohong , Rouchka Eric C. , McClain Craig J. , Song Ming 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Intestine epithelial hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) plays a critical role in maintaining gut barrier function. The aim of this study was to determine whether pharmacological or genetic activation of intestinal HIF-1α ameliorates western diet–induced metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease.

Methods:
Metabolic effects of pharmacological activation of HIF-1α by dimethyloxalylglycine were evaluated in HIF-α luciferase reporter (ODD-luc) mice. Male and/or female intestinal epithelial–specific Hif1α overexpression mice (Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre) and wild-type littermates (Hif1αLSL/LSL) were fed with regular chow diet, high fructose (HFr) or high-fat (60% Kcal) high-fructose diet (HFHFr) for 8 weeks. Metabolic phenotypes were profiled.

Results:
Dimethyloxalylglycine treatment led to increased intestine HIF-α luciferase activity and decreased blood glucose levels in HFr diet–fed male ODD-luc mice. Male Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre mice exhibited markedly improved glucose tolerance compared to Hif1αLSL/LSL mice in response to HFr diet. Eight weeks HFHFr feeding led to obesity in both Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre and Hif1αLSL/LSL mice. However, male Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre mice exhibited markedly attenuated hepatic steatosis along with reduced liver size and liver weight compared to male Hif1αLSL/LSL mice. Moreover, HFHFr-induced systemic inflammatory responses were mitigated in male Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre mice compared to male Hif1αLSL/LSL mice, and those responses were not evident in female mice. Ileum RNA-seq analysis revealed that glycolysis/gluconeogenesis was up in male Hif1αLSL/LSL;VilERcre mice, accompanied by increased epithelial cell proliferation. Moreover, an in vitro study showed that HIF stabilization enhances glycolysis in intestine organoids.

Conclusions:
Our data provide evidence that pharmacological or genetic activation of intestinal HIF-1α markedly ameliorates western diet–induced metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease in a sex-dependent manner. The underlying mechanism is likely attributed to HIF-1α activation–induced upregulation of glycolysis, which, in turn, leads to enhanced epithelial cell proliferation and augmented gut barrier function.
Aberrant basement membrane production by HSCs in MASLD is attenuated by the bile acid analog INT-767
Authors: Ramachandran Prakash , Brice Madara , Sutherland Elena F. , Hoy Anna M. , Papachristoforou Eleni , Jia Li , Turner Frances , Kendall Timothy J. , Marwick John A. , Carragher Neil O. , Oro Denise , Feigh Michael , Leeming Diana J. , Nielsen Mette J. , Karsdal Morten A. , Hartmann Nadine , Erickson Mary , Adorini Luciano , Roth Jonathan D. , Fallowfield Jonathan A. 
Published: November 2024

Background:
The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a leading therapeutic target for metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH)-related fibrosis. INT-767, a potent FXR agonist, has shown promise in preclinical models. We aimed to define the mechanisms of INT-767 activity in experimental MASH and dissect cellular and molecular targets of FXR agonism in human disease.

Methods:
Leptin-deficient ob/ob mice were fed a MASH-inducing diet for 15 weeks before the study started. After baseline liver biopsy and stratification, mice were allocated to INT-767 (10 mg/kg/d) or vehicle treatment for 8 weeks, either alongside an ongoing MASH diet (progression) or following conversion to normal chow (reversal). Effects on extracellular matrix remodeling were analyzed histologically and by RNA-sequencing. Serum fibrosis biomarkers were measured longitudinally. Human liver samples were investigated using bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing, histology, and cell culture assays.

Results:
INT-767 treatment was antifibrotic during MASH progression but not reversal, attenuating the accumulation of type I collagen and basement membrane proteins (type IV collagen and laminin). Circulating levels of PRO-C4, a type IV collagen formation marker, were reduced by INT-767 treatment and correlated with fibrosis. Expression of basement membrane constituents also correlated with fibrosis severity and adverse clinical outcomes in human MASH. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of mouse and human livers, and immunofluorescence staining colocalized FXR and basement membrane expression to myofibroblasts within the fibrotic niche. Treatment of culture-activated primary human HSCs with INT-767 decreased expression of basement membrane components.

Conclusions:
These findings highlight the importance of basement membrane remodeling in MASH pathobiology and as a source of circulating biomarkers. Basement membrane deposition by activated HSCs is abrogated by INT-767 treatment and measurement of basement membrane molecules should be included when determining the therapeutic efficacy of FXR agonists.
Fasting intact insulin by mass spectrometry is associated with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease in youth
Authors: Huneault Helaina E. , Lo Jaclyn S. , Bai Shasha , He Zhulin , McPhaul Michael J. , Bril Fernando , Vos Miriam B. , Cree Melanie G. 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Fasting intact insulin concentrations can predict metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adults without diabetes; however, research in youth is limited. We sought to determine whether fasting intact insulin, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, is associated with MASLD in children.

Methods:
This retrospective cross-sectional analysis used data and samples from children who participated in studies across 3 universities between 2014 and 2022. Key measurements included fasting intact insulin, ALT, and hepatic steatosis assessed by MRI techniques. MASLD was defined as hepatic steatosis ≥5% by MRI with at least 1 cardiometabolic risk factor. The optimal cutoff points to identify MASLD were determined by maximizing the Youden index, and the AUROC curves were compared using the DeLong test.

Results:
The analysis included 184 children (28% male; 14.9 ± 2.6 y; 57% Hispanic race/ethnicity; body mass index 32.5 ± 8.1 kg/m2; 64% with MASLD, 43% with polycystic ovary syndrome, and 5% with other liver diseases). Fasting intact insulin and ALT levels were significantly higher in children with MASLD (p < 0.05). Fasting intact insulin was strongly associated with MASLD with an AUROC of 0.83 (0.77–0.90), sensitivity of 71%, and specificity of 85%. When combined with ALT (intact insulin × ALT [μU/mL × U/L]), the AUROC was 0.88 (0.83–0.94), with a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 81%. The improvement in AUROC over intact insulin alone was not statistically significant (p = 0.089) but was statistically significant from ALT (p = 0.022). Optimal cutoff points for intact insulin and intact insulin × ALT were 20 μU/mL and 522 μU/mL × U/L, respectively.

Conclusions:
In pediatric patients, measurements of fasting intact insulin alone and combined with ALT provide a noninvasive strategy for identifying the presence of MASLD.
First reported case of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) caused byFereydounia khargensisin an End-stage kidney disease patient
Authors: Zhang Qiuying , Xie Mingshui , Liu Yang , Chen Dandan , Xie Wenhang , Zhang Min , Zhou Lunhuan , Hu Zhimin 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTF. khargensisis a yeast and was first described in 2014 from environmental samples.F. khargensisbelongs to the genus Fereydounia that grows as a yeast, was first identified in East Asia. The basidiomycetous yeastFereydounia khargensisis recorded for the first time from living plants and in East Asia. Phylogenetic analysis indicates a relationship with smut fungi belonging to the orderUrocystidales, where the monotypicFereydouniaceaeand the monogenericDoassansiopsidaceaeform the two most basal clades. In culture, this fungus produced cylindrical cells that reproduced by polar budding on short stalks. Production of ballistoconidia and blastospores was observed.
Circular economy education: student feedback from five higher education institutions in the Asia Pacific
Authors: Ho Olivia , Iyer-Raniga Usha , Sylva Kamani , Sivapalan Subarna , Dissanayaka Sunil Mananama , Sadykova Chinara 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
The integration of circular economy (CE) into higher education programmes is a crucial step to facilitate a smooth transition towards circularity. Although existing studies highlight the lack of CE awareness as a primary barrier to achieving circularity, there is still limited research investigating the enhancement of CE understanding after completing CE-related training or courses. To address this gap, this study aims to examine how CE education transforms students’ mindsets to support the strategic application of CE principles and strategies in personal and professional activities.

Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was designed and distributed to students attending CE courses at five universities located in five countries. Ethics approval for this research project was obtained from University 3 as the lead of the research project. Out of a total of 138 students enrolled in these courses, 109 responses were collected.

Findings
The research findings demonstrate that CE education enhances students’ awareness of CE definitions, principles and strategies through developing their own descriptions of CE concepts and interpretation into personal and professional activities, showcasing practical circular applications.

Practical implications
This paper presents implications for programme coordinators, subject coordinators and lecturers/facilitators at universities/higher educational institutions to consider when designing a course or training workshop related to CE within a particular programme or discipline.

Originality/value
This study identifies invaluable insights of CE education to enhance students understanding and practical applications of circularity in their personal and professional activities. The research findings can be used for crafting and delivering CE courses in different universities. This study can be regarded as guidance to develop a CE curriculum for higher education nurturing a deep understanding of CE concepts while aligning with the industry demands for CE professionals.
Idea to integration: assessing mechatronics technologies in the construction industry of a developing economy
Authors: Aliu John , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Oni Samuel Bankole , Ilesanmi Oluwadamilare Olamide 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
The main aim of this research study is to comprehensively evaluate the level of awareness and practical implementation of mechatronic technologies in developing countries, with a particular emphasis on their application within the Nigerian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach
Using a quantitative framework, this study uses a well-structured questionnaire that was administered to professionals within the Nigerian construction industry. Subsequently, the obtained data was subjected to in-depth analysis such as mean values and standard deviations, utilization of the Kruskal–Wallis H-test and application of the Shapiro-Wilk normality test.

Findings
Results from the study revealed a relatively fair level of awareness and implementation of mechatronic technologies among Nigerian construction professionals. Among the 22 mechatronic technologies surveyed, respondents exhibited considerable awareness and implementation of only a few, underscoring the imperative for further initiatives to enhance awareness of these technologies.

Originality/value
By focusing on a developing country context and specifically addressing the construction sector, this research offers novel insights into the opportunities associated with adopting advanced technological solutions in a unique setting. The findings of this study provide a foundation for future discussions, strategies and interventions aimed at fostering the integration of mechatronic technologies in similar contexts.
From user engagement to app love: Investigating the antecedents and consequences of third-party travel app usage
Authors: Wiyata Wiyata , Md Zain Nur Adilah , Asyraff Muhammad Aliff , Anuar Faiz Izwan , Hanafiah Mohd Hafiz 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to empirical tests an integrated framework of third-party travel apps usage antecedents (system quality, information quality, service quality and user engagement) and its consequences (satisfaction, apps love and behavioral intentions).

Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research design was used, purposively interviewing 551 users of predetermined third-party travel apps. The data was analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling.

Findings
The study found that system quality did not significantly impact user engagement, suggesting that users may prioritize content and service over technical features. Both information quality and service quality were positively linked to user engagement, confirming that users are more engaged when app content is relevant and service is adequate. Additionally, higher user engagement led to greater app satisfaction and love, positively influencing users’ behavioral intentions, such as continued use and recommendations.

Practical implications
The results highlight the importance of content and service quality over system features in driving user engagement with smartphone apps. This suggests developers should focus on delivering high-quality information and excellent service to foster user satisfaction and emotional attachment to the app.

Originality/value
The study suggests a shift in focus from technical features to content relevance and service effectiveness, highlighting that users may prioritize these aspects over technical aspects when engaging with an app. This could challenge conventional assumptions about the importance of system quality in user engagement.
Machine learning and AI technology-induced skill gaps and opportunities for continuous development of middle-skilled employees
Authors: Chuang Szufang , Shahhosseini Mehran , Javaid Maria , Wang Greg G. 
Published: November 2024

PurposeBased on the sociotechnical systems theory, we examined the human–technology interactions in the context of future works conditioned by machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). Skills needed to support career sustainability and the future of the workforce, particularly for the middle-skilled workforce in the contemporary United States America (USA) context, were also studied.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a scenario analysis to demonstrate the potential roles that human resource professionals may perform to fill the skill gaps given their expertise in the shaping and skilling processes.FindingsAssessing the success of the integration of AI and ML into the middle-skilled workforce requires a multi-faceted approach that considers performance metrics, cost-effectiveness, job satisfaction, environmental impact and innovation. Employees with AI skills can be more competitive in the workforce and forward to high-skilled positions.Research limitations/implicationsEmpirical research and related studies focusing on evaluations of reskilling and upskilling processes and outcomes would support career sustainability and the future development of middle-skilled workers.Practical implicationsThrough a proactive strategic career development plan with AI integration, middle-skilled workers may enhance their career sustainability and be prepared for future higher-skilled work.Social implicationsThe economic downturn caused by technology-induced unemployment may be addressed by unleashing middle-skilled workforce potentials for future work created by AI and robotics and sustaining economic competitiveness.Originality/valueThis article offers important implications for human resource development theory-minded researchers and scholarly practitioners.
Long‐term outcomes for women after dilator therapy with or without surgery in the creation of a neovagina
Authors: Koh Yi Ying , Gerstl Brigitte , Sit Andrea , Heller‐Boersma Jacoline , Koch Jana , Juan Yi‐Ping , Deans Rebecca 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundVaginal aplasia or hypoplasia often requires the creation of a neovagina using vaginal dilation therapy, vaginoplasty surgery, or a combination of both. However, the absence of validated guidelines and the controversy surrounding vaginoplasty surgery have limited our understanding of the long‐term outcomes and impact on quality of life and psychosexual functioning for women with a short or absent vagina. This study provides valuable insights into the Australian context, reflecting the treatment approaches and long‐term psychosocial outcomes for this patient group.AimThis study aimed to assess the long‐term effects of vaginal dilation, with or without vaginoplasty surgery, on quality of life and psychosexual functioning in women diagnosed with a short or absent vagina.Materials and methodsA mixed‐methods design was employed, utilising validated psychometric tools and a semi‐structured interview. The study included patients with disorders of sex development aged above 16 who underwent vaginal dilator therapy between 2012 and 2020, as well as healthy age‐matched controls. The research was conducted at a single tertiary hospital in Sydney, NSW, Australia.ResultsThe questionnaire was completed by 30 participants, including 11 non‐surgical cases, four surgical cases, and 15 controls. The mean age at inclusion was 30.8 ± 14.1 years. The non‐surgical group exhibited significantly higher scores indicating a greater ‘need for help’ compared to the surgical group (30.0 ± 19.3 and 4.5 ± 9.0; P = 0.0121). No other statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups.ConclusionChoice of treatment should consider various factors, including patient preference and responsiveness to treatment. These findings emphasise the importance of personalised care in the Australian context and highlight the need for further research, particularly with larger and more homogenous sample sizes, to enhance clinical decision‐making in this population.
Test–retest variability of mesopic microperimetry‐associated parameters in patients with retinitis pigmentosa: REPEAT Study Report No. 2
Authors: Karuntu Jessica S. , Pfau Maximilian , Jolly Jasleen K. , Boon Camiel J. F. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPurposeUnderstanding test–retest variability (TRV) of mesopic microperimetry is critical for defining meaningful treatment effects in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) trials. This study uniquely evaluates intra‐ and intervisit TRV and coefficients of repeatability (CoRs) for microperimetry parameters in RP patients with varying best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) levels.MethodsIn this single‐centre prospective cohort study, RP patients were assessed on two visits, 14.0 days apart. Patients were grouped by BCVA: low (≤20/50 Snellen; ≥0.4 logMAR) or moderate (>20/50 Snellen; <0.4 logMAR). Using Bland–Altman analyses, the CoRs for intra‐ and intervisit variability were determined for pointwise (dB), mean (dB), and volume sensitivity (dB*deg2) on mesopic microperimetry.ResultsIntravisit CoRs for mean, volume, and pointwise sensitivity were 1.7 dB, 353.2 dB*deg2, and 8.6 dB, respectively, in the low‐BCVA group (n = 32), and 0.9 dB, 254.5 dB*deg2, and 7.3 dB in the moderate‐BCVA group (n = 15).Intervisit CoRs for mean, volume, and pointwise sensitivity were 2.4 dB, 355.2 dB*deg2, and 10.2 dB in the low‐BCVA group (n = 31). The moderate‐BCVA group (n = 16) showed smaller CoRs of 1.6 dB, 386.8 dB*deg2, and 7.7 dB for mean, volume, and pointwise sensitivity. BCVA and mean sensitivity, but not fixation stability, are predictors of TRV for volume sensitivity.ConclusionsDue to significant TRV, pointwise sensitivity is an unreliable endpoint for RP patients, irrespective of BCVA. Mean sensitivity is suitable as an endpoint when BCVA is relatively preserved.Volume sensitivity provides additional spatial information, and shows promise as a clinical endpoint for assessing macular sensitivity changes on mesopic microperimetry in patients with RP.
Patient‐reported visual function outcomes in immediately sequential versus delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery
Authors: Nielsen Mads Assenholt , Bjerager Jakob , Citirak Gülsenay , Holm Lars Morten , Nielsen Esben , Subhi Yousif , Singh Amardeep 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPurposeTo compare patient‐reported visual function outcomes of immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS) and delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery (DSBCS).MethodsSingle‐center, randomised controlled trial of patients eligible for bilateral cataract surgery allocated to ISBCS or DSBCS. Patients filled out the Catquest‐7SF questionnaire before surgery, 1 week after surgery, and 3 months after surgery.ResultsNinety‐eight patients were included for analysis (ISBCS = 51; DSBCS = 47). In both groups, there was a statistically significant improvement in Catquest‐7SF patient‐reported outcomes after surgery (p < 0.001), and no difference between the ISBCS and DSBCS groups (p ≥ 0.424). At both 1 week and 3 months post‐surgery, a statistically significantly higher proportion of patients were “very satisfied” with the surgical approach in the ISBCS group (94.1% at both 1 week and 3 months) compared to the DSBCS group (55.3% at 1 week and 63.8% at 3 months), both p < 0.001.ConclusionsBoth ISBCS and DSBCS are effective options to treat bilateral cataracts with no statistically significant difference in patient‐reported vision outcomes. However, we found postoperative satisfaction with the surgical approach to be higher among ISBCS patients, which suggests that ISBCS‐related benefits, such as fewer health care visits and shorter vision rehabilitation, are compelling to patients.
Romiplostim, low‐dose rituximab and high‐dose dexamethasone for newly diagnosed immune thrombocytopenia: A pilot study
Authors: Colunga‐Pedraza Perla R. , De la Garza‐Salazar Fernando , Vaquera‐Alfaro Héctor A. , Gómez‐De León Andrés , Bustillos‐Muñoz Mónica , Tarín‐Arzaga Luz , Cantú‐Rodríguez Olga , Gutiérrez‐Aguirre César Homero , Gómez‐Almaguer David 
Published: November 2024

SummaryTherapies such as corticosteroids, thrombopoietin receptor agonists and immunomodulators have been consistently under the spotlight in the search for a better treatment for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). However, none of them has been widely embraced as a new standard. In this pilot study, we investigated feasibility, safety and preliminary efficacy of romiplostim, low‐dose rituximab and high‐dose dexamethasone for newly diagnosed ITP. We conducted a single‐centre single‐arm pilot. One‐month treatment adherence was 100%. The 1‐month overall response rate was 92.3%. Complete response occurred in 11 (84.6%) patients. Median duration of response was 4.13 monts (range 0.2–25). No serious adverse events presented.
Better late than never: Delayed asparaginase during induction for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in adults
Authors: Valtis Yannis K. , Luskin Marlise R. 
Published: November 2024

Paediatric regimens which incorporate asparaginase have improved outcomes of adolescents and younger adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia but are limited by toxicity. This retrospective report by Tinajero and Xu suggests that delaying the timing of asparaginase administration during ALL induction may reduce risk of hepatotoxicity.Commentary on: Tinajero et al. Delaying pegaspargase during induction in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is associated with lower risk of high‐grade hepatotoxicity without adversely impacting outcomes. Br J Haematol 2024 (Online ahead of print). doi: 10.1111/bjh.19880.