bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Intermittent Fasting on Liver Function Tests: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Ranjbar Mahsa , Shab-Bidar Sakineh , Mohammadi Hamed , Djafarian Kurosh 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Context
Intermittent fasting (IF) is a diet strategy with alternate intervals of calorie reduction and normal eating. Despite its beneficial effects on weight loss and cardiometabolic risk factors, the effect of IF on liver function tests (LFTs) remains unclear.

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the effect of IF on LFTs through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Data Sources
An electronic search was performed using predefined search terms in databases including PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science until February 2023.

Data Extraction
The studies were selected according to PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed for the randomized controlled trials.

Data Analysis
The results of this study are reported as weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% CIs. Fourteen RCTs were included in the meta-analysis, with a total sample size of 908. IF significantly reduced alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (WMD: −2.88, 95% CI: −4.72 to −1.04, P-value = .002) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (WMD: −1.67, 95% CI: −3.12 to −0.22, P-value = .024). The results of the subgroup analysis showed that the impact of IF was significant in both the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and the healthy groups for ALT. The effects of IF on the serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) level were significant (WMD: −3.19, 95% CI: −6.00 to −0.39, P-value = .026), but there were no significant changes in the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level (WMD: 1.06, 95% CI: −0.23 to 2.34, P-value = .106). Furthermore, no substantial heterogeneity between studies was reported.

Conclusion
IF can improve ALT, AST, and GGT levels but not ALP enzyme levels and may have a benefit on liver function.

Systematic Review Registration
PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023396211.
Uncertainties and confidence in stratospheric aerosol injection modelling: a systematic literature review
Authors: Määttänen Anni , Lameille Thibaut , Kloeck Carola , Boucher Olivier , Ravetta François 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Model projections performed to evaluate the efficacy and impacts of solar geoengineering interventions, such as Stratospheric Aerosol Injection (SAI), include multiple sources of uncertainty, namely scenario, model, and natural variability uncertainty. It is well accepted that a quantitative uncertainty assessment related to SAI modelling is required to provide robust and policy-relevant information on SAI. This study investigates how and to what extent articles using a climate modelling approach on SAI quantify and communicate uncertainty sources. We conducted a systematic literature review of a sample of 60 peer-reviewed articles in order to (i) analyse whether uncertainties were addressed, and if yes, which methods were used to characterize uncertainties, and (ii) study how the articles communicated assumptions and limits that contribute to the estimation of confidence in the used models and the resulting projections. We present statistics on the uncertainty quantification methods used in the articles and we discuss the vocabulary employed for conveying these uncertainties and model confidence. In the studied article sample, the attention paid to uncertainty estimations in the SAI literature increased with time, and overall, uncertainties were treated using a variety of methods. Model confidence was not always explicitly communicated as the models used are already tested in the literature and their strengths and weaknesses are known to the community although this is often implicit. Our results show that it is currently difficult to perform global, quantitative assessments of uncertainty related to SAI research, in line with recent review reports on solar geoengineering.
Defining the Real Mary Magdalene
Authors: Taylor Joan E. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of the major evidence and modern works defining Mary Magdalene as a real person. The body of evidence concerning Mary Magdalene is largely comprised of canonical Gospels, early extracanonical Gospels, and other works that may be repositories of independent memories. The most important evidence for the historical Mary Magdalene lies in the canonical Gospels, particularly the Gospel of Mark. The chapter then discusses recent studies of the historical Mary Magdalene within feminist historiography and popular history. It considers the interplay of Mary Magdalene with the divine, free from classical Christian dogma within the contemporary world.
Firefly toxin lucibufagins evolved after the origin of bioluminescence
Authors: Zhu Chengqi , Lu Xiaoli , Cai Tianlong , Zhu Kangli , Shi Lina , Chen Yinjuan , Wang Tianyu , Yang Yaoming , Tu Dandan , Fu Qi , Huang Jing , Zhen Ying 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Fireflies were believed to originally evolve their novel bioluminescence as warning signals to advertise their toxicity to predators, which was later adopted in adult mating. Although the evolution of bioluminescence has been investigated extensively, the warning signal hypothesis of its origin has not been tested. In this study, we test this hypothesis by systematically determining the presence or absence of firefly toxin lucibufagins (LBGs) across firefly species and inferring the time of origin of LBGs. We confirm the presence of LBGs in the subfamily Lampyrinae, but more importantly, we reveal the absence of LBGs in other lineages, including the subfamilies of Luciolinae, Ototretinae, and Psilocladinae, two incertae sedis lineages, and the Rhagophthalmidae family. Ancestral state reconstructions for LBGs based on firefly phylogeny constructed using genomic data suggest that the presence of LBGs in the common ancestor of the Lampyrinae subfamily is highly supported but unsupported in more ancient nodes, including firefly common ancestors. Our results suggest that firefly LBGs probably evolved much later than the evolution of bioluminescence. We thus conclude that firefly bioluminescence did not originally evolve as direct warning signals for toxic LBGs and advise that future studies should focus on other hypotheses. Moreover, LBG toxins are known to directly target and inhibit the α subunit of Na+, K+-ATPase (ATPα). We further examine the effects of amino acid substitutions in firefly ATPα on its interactions with LBGs. We find that ATPα in LBG-containing fireflies is relatively insensitive to LBGs, which suggests that target-site insensitivity contributes to LBG-containing fireflies' ability to deal with their own toxins.
Understanding underlying physical mechanism reveals early warning indicators and key elements for adaptive infections disease networks
Authors: Wang Linqi , Zhang Kun , Xu Li , Wang Jin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The study of infectious diseases holds significant scientific and societal importance, yet current research on the mechanisms of disease emergence and prediction methods still face challenging issues. This research uses the landscape and flux theoretical framework to reveal the non-equilibrium dynamics of adaptive infectious diseases and uncover its underlying physical mechanism. This allows the quantification of dynamics, characterizing the system with two basins of attraction determined by gradient and rotational flux forces. Quantification of entropy production rates provides insights into the system deviating from equilibrium and associated dissipative costs. The study identifies early warning indicators for the critical transition, emphasizing the advantage of observing time irreversibility from time series over theoretical entropy production and flux. The presence of rotational flux leads to an irreversible pathway between disease states. Through global sensitivity analysis, we identified the key factors influencing infectious diseases. In summary, this research offers valuable insights into infectious disease dynamics and presents a practical approach for predicting the onset of critical transition, addressing existing research gaps.
Open-ended versus bounded evolution: Mineral evolution as a case study
Authors: Hazen Robert M , Wong Michael L 
Published: June 2024

AbstractTo what extent are naturally evolving systems limited in their potential diversity (i.e. “bounded”) versus unrestricted (“open-ended”)? Minerals provide a quantitative model evolving system, with well-documented increases in mineral diversity through multiple stages of planetary evolution over billions of years. A recent framework that unifies behaviors of both biotic and abiotic evolving systems posits that all such systems are characterized by combinatorial richness subject to selection. In the case of minerals, combinatorial richness derives from the possible combinations of chemical elements coupled with permutations of their formulas' coefficients. Observed mineral species, which are selected for persistence through deep time, represent a miniscule fraction of all possible element configurations. Furthermore, this model predicts that as planetary systems evolve, stable minerals become an ever-smaller fraction of the “possibility space.” A postulate is that “functional information,” defined as the negative log2 of that fraction, must increase as a system evolves. We have tested this hypothesis for minerals by estimating the fraction of all possible chemical formulas observed from one stage of mineral evolution to the next, based on numbers of different essential elements and the maximum chemical formula complexity at each of nine chronological stages of mineral evolution. We find a monotonic increase in mineral functional information through these nine stages—a result consistent with the hypothesis. Furthermore, analysis of the chemical formulas of minerals demonstrates that the modern Earth may be approaching the maximum limit of functional information for natural mineral systems—a result demonstrating that mineral evolution is not open-ended.
Formation of the pyruvoyl-dependent proline reductase Prd from Clostridioides difficile requires the maturation enzyme PrdH
Authors: Behlendorf Christian , Diwo Maurice , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Fuchs Manuela , Körner Dominik , Jänsch Lothar , Faber Franziska , Blankenfeldt Wulf 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Stickland fermentation, the coupled oxidation and reduction of amino acid pairs, is a major pathway for obtaining energy in the nosocomial bacterium Clostridioides difficile. D-proline is the preferred substrate for the reductive path, making it not only a key component of the general metabolism but also impacting on the expression of the clostridial toxins TcdA and TcdB. D-proline reduction is catalyzed by the proline reductase Prd, which belongs to the pyruvoyl-dependent enzymes. These enzymes are translated as inactive proenzymes and require subsequent processing to install the covalently bound pyruvate. Whereas pyruvoyl formation by intramolecular serinolysis has been studied in unrelated enzymes, details about pyruvoyl generation by cysteinolysis as in Prd are lacking. Here, we show that Prd maturation requires a small dimeric protein that we have named PrdH. PrdH (CD630_32430) is co-encoded with the PrdA and PrdB subunits of Prd and also found in species producing similar reductases. By producing stable variants of PrdA and PrdB, we demonstrate that PrdH-mediated cleavage and pyruvoyl formation in the PrdA subunit requires PrdB, which can be harnessed to produce active recombinant Prd for subsequent analyses. We further created PrdA- and PrdH-mutants to get insight into the interaction of the components and into the processing reaction itself. Finally, we show that deletion of prdH renders C. difficile insensitive to proline concentrations in culture media, suggesting that this processing factor is essential for proline utilization. Due to the link between Stickland fermentation and pathogenesis, we suggest PrdH may be an attractive target for drug development.
Convicting Corrupt Officials: Evidence from Randomly Assigned Cases
Authors: Axbard Sebastian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Can the judiciary help root out government corruption? This article exploits the random assignment of court cases to justices who exhibit varying degrees of strictness to examine how convicting corrupt officials affects local government outcomes in the Philippines. I document that convictions improve the management of local public finances and reduce associated corruption. An exploration of mechanisms suggests that legal deterrence effects contribute to these findings. The results further indicate that convictions are effective at stifling corruption among bureaucrats, but not politicians. Consistent with this heterogeneity, convictions reduce electoral competition and consequently weaken accountability for incumbent politicians.
News Diffusion in Social Networks and Stock Market Reactions
Authors: Hirshleifer David , Peng Lin , Wang Qiguang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
We study how the social transmission of public news influences investors’ beliefs and the securities markets. Using data on social networks, we find that earnings announcements from firms in higher-centrality counties generate a stronger immediate price, volatility, and trading volume reactions. Post-announcement, such firms experience weaker price drift and faster volatility decay but higher and more persistent volume. These findings suggest greater social connectedness facilitates the timely incorporation of news into prices, as well as opinion divergence and excessive trading. We propose the social churning hypothesis, which is confirmed using granular data from StockTwits messages and household trading records.
Integrative analysis of Lunatic Fringe variants associated with spondylocostal dysostosis type‐III
Authors: Wengryn Parker , Fenrich Felicity , Silveira Karina da Costa , Oborn Connor , Mizumoto Shuji , Beke Alexander , Soltys Carrie‐Lynn , Yamada Shuhei , Kannu Peter 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLunatic Fringe (LFNG) is required for spinal development. Biallelic pathogenic variants cause spondylocostal dysostosis type‐III (SCD3), a rare disease generally characterized by malformed, asymmetrical, and attenuated development of the vertebral column and ribs. However, a variety of SCD3 cases reported have presented with additional features such as auditory alterations and digit abnormalities. There has yet to be a single, comprehensive, functional evaluation of causative LFNG variants and such analyses could unveil molecular mechanisms for phenotypic variability in SCD3. Therefore, nine LFNG missense variants associated with SCD3, c.564C>A, c.583T>C, c.842C>A, c.467T>G, c.856C>T, c.601G>A, c.446C>T, c.521G>A, and c.766G>A, were assessed in vitro for subcellular localization and protein processing. Glycosyltransferase activity was quantified for the first time in the c.583T>C, c.842C>A, and c.446C>T variants. Primarily, our results are the first to satisfy American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics PS3 criteria (functional evidence via well‐established assay) for the pathogenicity of c.583T>C, c.842C>A, and c.446C>T, and replicate this evidence for the remaining six variants. Secondly, this work indicates that all variants that prevent Golgi localization also lead to impaired protein processing. It appears that the FRINGE domain is responsible for this phenomenon. Thirdly, our data suggests that variant proximity to the catalytic residue may influence whether LFNG is improperly trafficked and/or enzymatically dysfunctional. Finally, the phenotype of the axial skeleton, but not elsewhere, may be modulated in a variant‐specific fashion. More reports are needed to continue testing this hypothesis. We anticipate our data will be used as a basis for discussion of genotype–phenotype correlations in SCD3.
Hypertension management in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Liddell Toddra S. , Henry-Okafor Queen , Umeukeje Ebele M. 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT
This article offers a guide for NPs for managing hypertension (HTN) in adults in the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It outlines evidence-based strategies, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacologic interventions, and patient education measures, that can be used in patients with CKD to optimize BP control. Special considerations, such as comorbid mental health conditions and individualized treatment plans, are also addressed. NPs play a pivotal role in improving outcomes by fostering patient engagement and adherence. By embracing this holistic approach, NPs are poised to enhance the quality of care and well-being of patients with CKD and HTN.
Impact of action plans on perceived COPD burden
Authors: Heffner Jacqueline S. 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly increases morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Patients need enhanced resources to improve COPD symptoms, avoid exacerbations, and manage their medications. My COPD Action Plan, a worksheet developed by the American Lung Association (ALA), is designed to help patients develop a personalized self-management plan with their providers.

Methods:
This QI project, conducted at a rural primary care Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) as part of the author's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program requirements, included patients with COPD. Participants completed a preintervention COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and then, together with their provider, completed a personalized ALA COPD action plan. Office staff followed up with patients weekly for 8 weeks to inquire about their ability to follow their COPD action plans and forwarded patient issues to the primary care provider. Postintervention CAT scores were then obtained at a follow-up office visit. Changes in CAT scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:
Seventeen patients met project requirements, consented to participate, and completed all the steps. Preintervention CAT scores ranged from 11 to 37, with a median score of 31. Postintervention CAT scores ranged from 3 to 28, with a median score of 17. The CAT categories that improved the most were chest tightness, activity limitation, and confidence in leaving the home.

Conclusion:
This project evaluates how use of the ALA's COPD-centered action plan improves patients' perceived COPD burden and reduces healthcare resource utilization.
Dried Blood Spot Method Development and Clinical Validation for the Analysis of Elexacaftor, Elexacaftor-M23, Tezacaftor, Tezacaftor-M1, Ivacaftor, Ivacaftor Carboxylate, and Hydroxymethyl Ivacaftor Using LC-MS/MS
Authors: Vonk Steffie E. M. , van der Meer-Vos Marloes , Kos Renate , Neerincx Anne H. , Terheggen-Lagro Suzanne W. J. , Altenburg Josje , Maitland-van der Zee Anke H. , Mathôt Ron A. A. , Kemper E. Marleen ,   on behalf of the Amsterdam Mucociliary Clearance Disease (AMCD) research group
Published: June 2024

Background:
The highly effective cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator, elexacaftor–tezacaftor–ivacaftor, is now widely being used by people with cystic fibrosis. However, few independent studies have detailed the pharmacokinetics (PK) of CFTR modulators. Blood collection by venipuncture is the gold standard for PK measurements, but it is invasive. The aim of this study was to develop and clinically validate a quantification method for elexacaftor, tezacaftor, ivacaftor, and their main metabolites in dried blood spots (DBSs) using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.

Methods:
Linearity, accuracy, precision, stability, hematocrit (Hct), spot-to-spot carryover, spot volume, and extraction efficiency were validated in DBS for all analytes. The clinical validation of elexacaftor–tezacaftor–ivacaftor in patients was performed by comparing 21 DBS samples with matched plasma samples.

Results:
The preset requirements for linearity, within-run and between-run accuracy, precision, Hct, spot volume, and extraction efficiency were met. Puncher carryover was observed and resolved by punching 3 blanks after each sample. The samples remained stable and showed no notable degradation across the tested temperatures and time intervals. Corrected DBS values with the Passing–Bablok regression equation showed good agreement in Bland–Altman plots, and acceptance values were within 20% of the mean for a minimum of 67% of the repeats, according to the EMA guidelines.

Conclusions:
A quantification method for the analysis of elexacaftor, tezacaftor, ivacaftor, and their main metabolites was developed and clinically validated in DBS. This method could be valuable in both clinical care and research to address unanswered PK questions regarding CFTR modulators.
The Primacy of Ethics in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review
Authors: Ramirez Sylvia , Cullen Clara , Ahdoot Rodney , Scherz Gunther 
Published: June 2024

Background:
The landscape of modern aesthetic medicine has witnessed a paradigm shift from traditional doctor-led care to a consumer-driven model, presenting a plethora of ethical challenges. This review discusses the ethical dimensions of medical aesthetics, exploring the implications of consumer demand, societal influences, and technological advancements on patient care and well-being.

Methods:
Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, this review synthesizes evidence regarding the rise of aesthetic medicine, ethical challenges encountered in practice, and the implications of social media and marketing in shaping patient perceptions and decision-making.

Results:
Aesthetic medicine confronts unique ethical challenges stemming from its elective nature and the pervasive influence of societal beauty standards. Concerns include the commodification of beauty, conflicts of interest, limited evidence-base of treatments, and the rise of nonphysician providers. Moreover, the evolving role of social media influencers and medical marketing raises ethical dilemmas regarding transparency, patient autonomy, and professional integrity.

Conclusions:
The ethical landscape of aesthetic medicine necessitates a proactive approach to address emerging challenges and safeguard patient well-being. Guided by principles of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice, recommendations are proposed to enhance informed consent practices, mitigate appearance anxiety, facilitate shared decision-making, and promote responsible use of social media. Professional societies are urged to establish clear ethical guidelines and standards to uphold professionalism and patient trust in the field of aesthetic medicine.