bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Progressive Cone‐Rod Synaptic Dysfunction in Dynamin‐1 (DNM1) Related Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy: A Distinct Retinal Phenotype in Human
Authors: Marmoy Oliver R. , Hay Eleanor , Bowman Richard , Thompson Dorothy A. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTDynamin‐1 is an essential enzyme involved in the recycling of synaptic vesicles, in particular in the scission of endocytic buds within the pre‐synaptic terminal. Heterozygous pathogenic variants in DNM1 result in Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy type 31A, where patients exhibit early onset refractory epilepsy, severe‐profound intellectual disability and poor visual behaviour. We present data demonstrating that this disorder progressively affects retinal synaptic function which, to our knowledge, is the first report of this phenotype in human. Clinical notes of the proband were reviewed incorporating ophthalmic phenotyping (imaging, electroretinography (ERG), pattern visual evoked potentials (PVEPs) and visual symptoms). Genetic testing was performed using trio whole genome sequencing. Genetic testing confirmed a de‐novo pathogenic variant in DNM1, a recurrent heterozygous missense variant, c.709C > T;p.(Arg237Trp). Serial ERG testing at 1, 3, 9 and 12 years old indicated a progressive inner retinal dysfunction affecting both rod and cone synaptic pathways mirroring the abnormalities in the mouse model of dnm1, with normal retinal structure. DNM1 affects retinal synaptic recycling and endocytosis and our findings show likely usefulness of ERG testing in affected individuals. Further work is needed to expand our understanding of how different DNM1 variants affect retinal function.
Immersive and Interactive Learning With eDIVE: A Solution for Creating Collaborative VR Education Experiences
Authors: Brůža Vojtěch , Šašinková Alžběta , Šašinka Čeněk , Stachoň Zdeněk , Kozlíková Barbora , Chmelík Jiří 
Published: February 2025

AbstractVirtual reality (VR) technology has become increasingly popular in education as a tool for enhancing learning experiences and engagement. This paper addresses the lack of a suitable tool for creating multi‐user immersive educational content for virtual environments by introducing a novel solution called eDIVE. The solution is designed to facilitate the development of collaborative immersive educational VR experiences. Developed in close collaboration with psychologists and educators, it addresses specific functional needs identified by these professionals. eDIVE allows creators to extensively modify, expand or develop entirely new VR experiences. eDIVE ultimately makes collaborative VR education more accessible and inclusive for all stakeholders. Its utility is demonstrated through exemplary learning scenarios, developed in collaboration with experienced educators, and evaluated through real‐world user studies.
Age‐Specific Functional Connectivity Changes After Partial Sleep Deprivation Are Correlated With Neurocognitive and Molecular Signatures
Authors: Yu Liyong , Chen Xuanyi , He Yuqi , Hong Xiaojuan , Yu Siyi 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundThis study aimed to investigate age‐specific alterations in functional connectivity after sleep deprivation (SD) and decode brain functional changes from neurocognitive and transcriptomic perspectives.MethodsHere, we examined changes in global and regional graph measures, particularly regional network strength (RNS), in 41 young participants and 36 older participants with normal sleep and after 3 h of SD. Additionally, by utilizing cognitive probabilistic maps from Neurosynth and gene expression data from the Allen Human Brain Atlas, we applied partial least‐squares regression analysis to identify the neurocognitive and transcriptional correlates of these RNS changes.ResultsAfter SD, older participants exhibited decreased RNS in the default mode network (DMN) and dorsal attention network, with increased RNS in the visual network. Young participants also showed decreased RNS in the DMN, notably in the left inferior parietal lobe, left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and left posterior cingulate cortex. In young participants, SD‐induced RNS changes significantly correlated with cognitive processes such as “attention,” “cognitive control,” and “working memory,” while in older participants, they correlated with “learning,” “focus,” and “decision.” Gene‐category enrichment analysis indicated that specific genes related to signal transduction, ion channels, and immune signaling might influence SD pathophysiology by affecting functional connectivity in young participants.ConclusionsThis study elucidates shared and age‐specific brain functional network alterations associated with SD, providing a neurocognitive and molecular basis for understanding the underlying pathophysiology.
The Application of Polymeric Nanoparticles as Drug Delivery Carriers to Cells in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Jin Lian , Nie Libo , Deng Yan , Khana Ghulam Jilany , He Nongyue 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTIn spite of great advances in modern medicine, there are a few effective strategies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases characterised by neuron loss or degeneration. This results from complex pathogenesis of the diseases and the limited drug uptake of the brain due to the presence of blood‐brain barrier. Nanoparticle‐based drug delivery systems are expected to improve the drug utilisation. Polymeric nanoparticles represent promising drug delivery carriers to the brain due to their unique advantages such as good biodegradability and biocompatibility, flexibility in surface modification and nontoxicity. In addition, the delivery of genetic drugs may stop the progression of neurodegenerative diseases at the genetic level and even avoid the irreversible damage in the central nervous system. In this review, an overview of studies on polymer‐based nanoparticles for drug delivery to the central nervous system in typical neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's diseases and Parkinson's diseases, is described. Meanwhile, their applications in gene delivery in these disorders are discussed. And the challenges and future perspectives for the development of polymeric nanoparticles as drug delivery carriers in neurodegenerative diseases are concluded.
Efficacy and hypoglycaemia outcomes with once‐weekly insulin icodec versus once‐daily basal insulin in individuals with type 2 diabetes by kidney function: A post hoc participant‐level analysis of the ONWARDS 1–5 trials
Authors: Rossing Peter , Benamar Malik , Cheng Alice Y. Y. , Kumar Bharath , Laugesen Christian , Bajaj Harpreet S. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAimThis post hoc analysis of ONWARDS 1–5 assessed the efficacy and hypoglycaemia outcomes with once‐weekly insulin icodec (icodec) versus once‐daily basal insulin comparators (degludec, glargine U100 or glargine U300) in insulin‐naive (ONWARDS 1, 3 and 5) and insulin‐experienced (ONWARDS 2 and 4) adults (aged ≥18 years) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by kidney function subgroup.Materials and MethodsTreatment outcomes were analysed by trial according to kidney function subgroup (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≥90; eGFR 60–<90; eGFR 30–<60; eGFR <30; all mL/min/1.73m2). Severe kidney function impairment (eGFR <30) at screening was an exclusion criterion for ONWARDS 1–4, but not ONWARDS 5.ResultsONWARDS 1–5 included 3765 participants; 3763 were included in this analysis. In ONWARDS 1, 3 and 5, there were no statistically significant treatment interactions by kidney function subgroup for change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline to end of treatment (EOT); there were statistically significant subgroup interactions in ONWARDS 2 and 4 (both p‐interaction <0.05). Change in body weight (baseline to EOT) across kidney function subgroups was comparable between treatment arms. Across trials, there was no consistent trend by kidney function subgroup for mean weekly insulin dose during the last 2 weeks of treatment or rates of combined clinically significant or severe hypoglycaemia. There were no statistically significant treatment interactions by kidney function subgroup for the achievement of HbA1c <7% without clinically significant or severe hypoglycaemia; all p‐interaction >0.05.ConclusionsEfficacy and hypoglycaemia outcomes of icodec versus once‐daily comparators were generally consistent among adults with T2D, regardless of kidney function.
A DiRECT approach to weight loss in a culturally diverse, low‐income population: Pilot randomised controlled trial and meta‐analysis of similar interventions
Authors: Campbell Kate , Ashton Natalie , Peddie Meredith C. , Ma'ia'i Kim , Camp Justine , Mann Jim , Reynolds Andrew N. 
Published: February 2025

AbstractAimsTo consider an intensive lifestyle intervention for weight loss in type 2 diabetes or prediabetes when delivered within a primary care service catering to indigenous (Māori), Pacific, refugee, and low‐income clientele.Materials and MethodsAdults with obesity, type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, and a desire to lose weight were randomised to dietitian‐supported usual care or the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT)‐type intervention (3 months of total diet replacement followed by 9 months of food reintroduction and supported weight loss maintenance). Both interventions included equal dietetic support delivered within primary care. Primary outcome was weight loss at 3 and 12 months. We performed random‐effects meta‐analysis of body weight of existing DiRECT‐type interventions.ResultsForty participants were randomised to the dietitian‐led DiRECT‐type intervention or dietitian‐supported usual care. At 3 months, weight loss among DiRECT‐type intervention participants was −6.1 kg (95% CI −10.2, −2.0) greater than with dietetic support. At 12 months, this difference decreased to −3.8 kg (−7.6, −0.1) due to gradual weight loss with dietitian‐supported usual care, not weight regain in DiRECT. Meta‐analyses indicated −8.5 kg (−11.1, −5.9) and −6.0 kg (−8.4, −3.5) greater weight loss for DiRECT‐type interventions than usual diabetes care (with or without dietary advice) at 3 and 12 months.ConclusionsIn this pilot effectiveness trial, the DiRECT‐type intervention generated clinically relevant and greater weight loss than dietitian‐supported usual care at 3 and 12 months. These results align with the effect sizes generated by meta‐analyses of existing DiRECT‐type interventions, demonstrating the potential use of DiRECT‐type approaches across a much broader spectrum of the population than previously considered including those with both type 2 and prediabetes. ACTRN12622000151730.
The real‐life experiences of people living with overweight and obesity: A psychosocial perspective
Authors: Flint Stuart W. , Vázquez‐Velázquez Verónica , Le Brocq Sarah , Brown Adrian 
Published: February 2025

AbstractUnderstanding the lived experience of obesity, just like any other chronic outcome, is essential to addressing deep routed inequalities and stigma associated with obesity, as well as creating more inclusive and effective policies and healthcare. The psychosocial aspects of obesity are vast and as such the lived experience of obesity differs between individuals and groups. However, there are consistent psychosocial issues identified within empirical studies as well as lived experience accounts that require consideration and potential adaption in the design and delivery of care including weight management and obesity services. Improving perceptions and understanding of the lived experience can also foster empathy which appears to be lacking based on research examining everyday encounters, media portrayal of people living with obesity, and in healthcare settings. Stigma and discrimination are consistent and, in some instances, occur daily in many societal settings leading to mental and physical health concerns, social disengagement and dysfunctional relationships with significant others, as well as avoidance of health promoting activities and settings. Using a narrative review approach, our aim was to examine the empirical evidence generated in countries across the world, reporting on the real‐life experiences of people living with obesity. Our search strategy was informed by existing empirical evidence of the psychosocial aspects of obesity and an in‐depth interview exploring the lived experience of obesity specifically conducted to inform this article. In doing so, we highlight key psychosocial aspects and provide a voice for a personal account of the challenges experienced in child and adulthood. Recommendations are offered for stakeholders including policymakers and practitioners that aim to address these real‐life challenges experienced by people living with obesity.
Do Firms Pollute Less in Special Economic Zones? Firm‐Level Evidence From China
Authors: Zhang Lihua , Gan Tian , Xu Zheng 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTUsing micro‐level data, this paper examines the effects of special economic zones (SEZs) on firms' pollution emissions in China. Our results show that the establishment of SEZs in China lowers SEZ firms' air pollution by at least 13%. Incumbents play the major role in generating this effect. Surrounding non‐SEZ firms' emissions also decrease through spillover effects. We also employ the boundary discontinuity difference‐in‐differences (BD‐DID) approach to tackle the endogeneity problem. Our results are robust when focusing on SEZs whose boundaries are more exogenous to local firms. SEZs' export promotion, innovation stimulation, environmental regulation and public abatement facilities potentially contribute to these effects.
Rethinking Schools: Transformative Hope and Utopian Possibility
Authors: Webb Darren 
Published: February 2025

AbstractThis article explores the work of Rethinking Schools (RS). RS is at one and the same time a grassroots movement of teacher‐activists, a quarterly journal, and a publishing house. For almost four decades the movement has sought to enact Freirean‐inspired curricular/pedagogical initiatives within US public schooling. What makes the work of RS significant is the way it connects critical pedagogy to specific examples of concrete practice. It thus provides an invaluable corrective to the abstruseness and high levels of theoretical abstraction one finds in critical pedagogy as an academic field. Of particular interest is the explicitly utopian dimension to the work of the movement. Underpinning all the curriculum materials, resources, lesson plans, reading lists, and pedagogical strategies is a desire to provide children and young people with an opportunity to flex their utopian imaginations. Drawing on Freirean theory to reflect on the practice of the movement, Webb highlights the ways in which RS finds utopian possibility blooming in that most unpromising of grounds — public schooling. While the context for utopian praxis feels unpropitious to say the least, Rethinking Schools offers a corrective to doom‐laden assessments of the scope for radical pedagogical initiatives within public schooling, not only in the US but more widely.
Broadening and Deepening Teachers' Professional Vision through Science and Scientific Theories: A Conversation between John Dewey and Hans‐Georg Gadamer
Authors: Edling Silvia 
Published: February 2025

AbstractWhile some researchers argue that theories and abstract knowledge are unreliable bases for teachers' work, a wide range of research stresses the need to overcome the gap between theory and practice, or abstract academic knowledge and experience‐based knowledge. Here, Silvia Edling maintains that it is relevant to ask why the relationship is necessary in the first place and in so doing revive the notions of teacher seeing in education. The purpose of this article is to contribute knowledge about the role of teacher vision by turning to how two different theoretical researchers, John Dewey and Hans‐Georg Gadamer, approach the notion of vision and its related concepts in relation to science. Aided by a hermeneutic conversation, the article provides a roadmap of similarities and differences between Dewey and Gadamer that can facilitate more nuanced reflections and deliberations among teachers and educational researchers on the meaning and usefulness of stimulating a broad and deep repertoire for teacher's professional vision.
Termites group size affects termitophiles survival: Exploring the Constrictotermes–Corotoca relationship
Authors: Lira Derick , de Melo Ellen Alves , de Oliveira Mário Herculano , do Socorro Lacerda‐Rolim Maria , de Oliveira Giovana Mendonça , Eloi Igor , Bezerra‐Gusmão Maria Avany 
Published: February 2025

AbstractTermites are social insects that form large groups and share complex behaviors among nestmates to promote the well‐being of their colony members. The benefits of living in termite groups can also be appealing to non‐related organisms, such as termitophiles, which directly benefit from interactions with termites by being fed, cared for and protected. To date, no study has investigated whether the benefits associated with life in large termite groups extend beyond the termites themselves and benefit other associated opportunistic organisms. Here, we evaluated the effect of the host termite group size of Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901) (Blattaria: Termitidae) on the survival time of two species of termitophilous beetles of the genus Corotoca Schiødte, 1853 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae). Survival bioassays were conducted with termitophiles confined with different group sizes of termite workers. We observed that termite group size is an important factor for the survival of both tested species of termitophiles. Overall, the mean time to death of termitophiles increases with the size of the termite group. Our results suggest that the benefits associated with being in larger termite groups may potentially extend beyond the host species and mitigate negative effects for their guests.
Deepening Awareness of Circular Economy Concepts in the Textile Sector Among University Students
Authors: López Portillo Pilar , Gutiérrez Duarte María Victoria , Muñoz‐Sepúlveda Jesús A. , Hilliard Ivan 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAny attempt to reverse the catastrophic consequences of climate change requires adaptation or mitigation measures. These measures can be implemented both at institutional and individual levels. For these measures to be effective, it is essential that economic agents are aware of the consequences of their decisions. This article presents the results of an activity carried out with university students to help strengthen their understanding of environmental protection. Specifically, it focuses on the implementation of a circular economy system in the textile sector. The aim is for students to gain a higher level of knowledge about the production, consumption and recycling of their clothes and discover how the circular economy can contribute to sustainability goals and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Cognitive Outcomes of Advanced Therapies in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review of Apomorphine and Levodopa–Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Therapies
Authors: Longo Chiara , Papagno Costanza 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundParkinson's disease (PD) treatments, such as apomorphine (APO) and levodopa–carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG), represent advanced therapeutic options for managing motor symptoms. However, clear selection criteria and well‐defined cognitive outcomes are lacking. This systematic review specifically aimed to address these gaps by assessing the cognitive impact of APO and LCIG in PD patients.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase. Two authors screened studies based on key inclusion criteria, including at least two cognitive tests, and a follow‐up of 6 months or more. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS).ResultsFifteen studies were identified (7 APO and 8 LCIG). APO generally preserved cognitive function over a 12‐month follow‐up, with some decreases in visuospatial memory and executive functions. LCIG, with a 28‐month follow‐up, showed more extensive cognitive decline, particularly in patients with pre‐existing impairments. Variability in cognitive tests made direct comparisons difficult.DiscussionAPO may have a more favorable cognitive profile than LCIG. However, differences in follow‐up duration, moderate risk of bias, and inconsistent cognitive assessments warrant cautious interpretation. Improved patient selection and comprehensive cognitive evaluations are recommended for future practice.
Seizure control and pregnancy outcomes in Chinese women with epilepsy: A prospective multicenter cohort study
Authors: Hao Nanya , Abdulaziz Ammar T. , Lu Lu , Chen Yujie , Li Tao , Liu Jie , Lin Xu , Chen Lei , Hao Xiaoting , Li Jinmei , Wu Xintong , O'Brien Terence J. , Sander Josemir W. , Zhou Dong 
Published: February 2025

AbstractObjectiveData on seizure and pregnancy outcomes in Asian women with epilepsy are limited. We used a Chinese pregnancy registry to assess the impact of seizures and antiseizure medications (ASMs) on pregnant women with epilepsy and their children.MethodsThis is an ongoing prospective multicenter study of pregnant women with epilepsy that has been running since 2012. Eligible participants were consecutively enrolled and had multiple follow‐ups up to one year after delivery. We assessed ASM use and seizure frequency during pregnancy to establish potential effects on the mothers and infants and to identify relevant correlations. Descriptive analysis was used to estimate proportions. Logistic regression was used to identify the relevant risk factors and correlations.ResultsOf 1907 potentially eligible pregnancies, we included 1763 in 1483 women with known outcomes from January 2012 to February 2022. There were 1278 completed pregnancies, resulting in 1270 live births. Tonic–clonic seizures occurred in fewer than one‐third of pregnancies in each trimester. Compared with baseline, seizure frequency remained relatively stable throughout approximately two‐thirds of the pregnancies. The majority were on ASM, with levetiracetam (39%), oxcarbazepine (19%), and lamotrigine (17.5%) being the most commonly used. In contrast, only 14.2% of pregnancies were exposed to valproate (VPA). There was a declining trend in treatment adjustments over the course of the pregnancy, with most changes occurring in the first trimester. The incidence of major congenital malformation (MCM) was 4.4%, with cardiogenic and orofacial anomalies being the most common. VPA use (p < .001), lack of folic acid use (p = .009), positive family history of MCM (p = .006), and topiramate (TPM) use (p = .04) were the most important predictors of MCM.SignificanceSeizure control remained stable for the majority of women with epilepsy throughout pregnancy. Family history of MCM, VPA use, TPM use, and not taking folic acid were strong predictors of MCM in infants born to women with epilepsy.