bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigative power of Genomic Informational Field Theory (GIFT) relative to GWAS for genotype-phenotype mapping
Authors: Kyratzi Panagiota , Matika Oswald , Brassington Amey H , Clare Connie E , Xu Juan , Barrett David A , Emes Richard D , Archibald Alan L , Paldi Andras , Sinclair Kevin D , Wattis Jonathan , Rauch Cyril
Published: April 2024

Identifying associations between phenotype and genotype is the fundamental basis of genetic analyses. Inspired by frequentist probability and the work of R.A. Fisher, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) extract information using averages and variances from genotype-phenotype datasets. Averages and variances are legitimated upon creating distribution density functions obtained through the grouping of data into categories. However, as data from within a given category cannot be differentiated, the investigative power of such methodologies is limited. Genomic Informational Field Theory (GIFT) is a method specifically designed to circumvent this issue. The way GIFT proceeds is opposite to that of GWAS. Whilst GWAS determines the extent to which genes are involved in phenotype formation (bottom-up approach), GIFT determines the degree to which the phenotype can select microstates (genes) for its subsistence (top-down approach). Doing so requires dealing with new genetic concepts, a.k.a. genetic paths, upon which significance levels for genotype-phenotype associations can be determined. By using different datasets obtained inovis ariesrelated to bone growth (Dataset-1) and to a series of linked metabolic and epigenetic pathways (Dataset-2), we demonstrate that removing the informational barrier linked to categories enhances the investigative and discriminative powers of GIFT, namely that GIFT extracts more information than GWAS. We conclude by suggesting that GIFT is an adequate tool to study how phenotypic plasticity and genetic assimilation are linked.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY

The genetic basis of complex traits remains challenging to investigate using classic GWASs. Given the success of gene editing technologies this point needs to be addressed urgently since there can only be useful editing technologies if precise genotype-phenotype mapping information is available initially. GIFT is a new mapping method designed to increase the investigative power of biological/medical datasets suggesting, in turn, the need to rethink the conceptual bases of quantitative genetics.
Variation in drug penetration does not account for the natural resistance ofMycobacterium abscessusbiofilms to antibiotic
Authors: Akwani Winifred C. , Rakowska Paulina , Gilmore Ian , Chambers Mark , McMahon Greg , Hingley-Wilson Suzie
Published: April 2024

Mycobacterium abscessus, an inherently drug-resistant, opportunistic, nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) predominantly causes pulmonary infections in immunocompromised patients, notably those with cystic fibrosis.M. abscessussubspecies display distinct colony morphologies (rough and smooth), with the prevalent view thatM. abscessus(smooth) is a persistent, biofilm-forming phenotype, whilstM. abscessus(rough) is unable to form biofilms. Biofilm formation contributes to persistent infections and exhibits increased antibiotic resistance.

We used the chemical mapping technique, nanoscale secondary ion spectrometry (NanoSIMS), to investigate if variations in the biofilm morphology and antibiotic penetration account for the antibiotic susceptibility amongstM. abscessussubspecies, contributing to increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and potentially explaining the protracted treatment duration.

The susceptibility to bedaquiline (BDQ) ofM. abscessusgrown as planktonic bacilli and biofilms was measured. The minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of BDQ was 8-16 times higher (2-4µg/ml) compared with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.25µg/ml), indicating reduced efficacy against biofilms.

Correlative imaging with electron microscopy revealed thatM. abscessus(irrespective of the colony morphotype) formed biofilms and that BDQ treatment influenced biofilm morphology. We determined thatM. abscessusmorphotypes exhibit differential uptake of the antibiotic BDQ in biofilms.M. abscessussubsp.abscessus(smooth) biofilms exhibited the least uptake of BDQ, whereasM. abscessussubsp.bolletiibiofilms showed the greatest antibiotic penetration.

NanoSIMS analysis revealed no correlation between antibiotic penetration and drug efficacy within the biofilm. This challenges the previous assumption linking biofilm architecture to drug efficacy. Investigating other biofilm characteristics like antibiotic persistence could lead to enhanced treatment approaches.

Significance Statement

Mycobacterium abscessusis an increasingly prevalent pathogen, most often causing lung infections in immunocompromised individuals. Their distinct morphotypes and biofilm-forming capabilities contribute to persistent infections, rendering them challenging to treat with increased antibiotic resistance. This research demonstrates that the antibiotic, bedaquiline exhibits significantly reduced efficacy againstM. abscessusgrowing as a biofilm compared to planktonic growth, but that the efficiency of antibiotic penetration was not the main explanation for the different susceptibilities of MABC biofilms to treatment.
Cell cycle-dependent mRNA localization in P-bodies
Authors: Safieddine Adham , Benassy Marie-Noëlle , Bonte Thomas , Slimani Floric , Pourcelot Oriane , Kress Michel , Ernoult-Lange Michèle , Courel Maïté , Coleno Emeline , Imbert Arthur , Laine Antoine , Godebert Annie Munier , Vinit Angelique , Blugeon Corinne , Chevreux Guillaume , Gautheret Daniel , Walter Thomas , Bertrand Edouard , Bénard Marianne , Weil Dominique
Published: April 2024

Understanding the dynamics of RNA targeting to membraneless organelles is essential to disentangle their functions. Here, we investigate how P-bodies (PBs) evolve during cell cycle progression. PB purification across the cell cycle uncovers widespread changes in their RNA content, which are partly uncoupled from cell cycle-dependent changes in RNA expression. Single molecule FISH shows various mRNA localization patterns in PBs peaking in G1, S, or G2, with examples illustrating the timely capture of mRNAs in PBs when their encoded protein becomes dispensable. Yet, rather than directly reflecting absence of translation, cyclic mRNA localization in PBs can be controlled by RBPs, such as HuR in G2, and by RNA features. Indeed, while PB mRNAs are AU-rich at all cell cycle phases, they are specifically longer in G1, possibly related to post-mitotic PB reassembly. Altogether, our study supports a model where PBs are more than a default location for excess untranslated mRNAs.
“Temporal variability of theHyalomma marginatum-borne pathogens in a sentinel site of the Occitanie region (France), a focus on the intriguing dynamics ofRickettsia aeschlimannii”
Authors: Charlotte Joly-Kukla , Frédéric Stachurski , Maxime Duhayon , Clémence Galon , Sara Moutailler , Thomas Pollet
Published: April 2024

Spatio-temporal scales have a clear influence on microbial community distribution and diversity and are thus essential to consider to identify and study the dynamics of microorganisms. The invasive tick speciesHyalomma marginatumhas recently become established in southern France. It carries pathogens of medical and veterinary interest including the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus,Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Theileria equiandAnaplasma phagocytophilumamong others. While the pathogenic communities ofH. marginatumwere identified and their spatial distribution characterised, their temporal dynamics are still unknown. We performed a monthlyH. marginatumtick collection from February to September 2022 in a sentinel site in southern France in order to study their presence and temporal dynamics. On the 281 ticks analysed, we detected pathogens includedR. aeschlimannii, A. phagocytophilumandT. equiwith infection rates reaching 47.0%, 4.6% and 11.0% respectively. Overall, 14.6% of ticks were infected with at leastTheileriaorAnaplasma, with monthly fluctuations ranging from 2.9% to 28.6%. Strong temporal patterns were observed for each of the detected pathogens, particularly forR. aeschlimanniiwhose infection rates drastically increased at the beginning of summer, correlated with the monthly mean temperatures in the sentinel site. Based on these results, we hypothesized thatR. aeschlimanniimight be a secondary symbiont ofH. marginatumthat could play a role into stress response to temperature. The analysis of monthly and seasonal fluctuations inH. marginatum-borne pathogens allowed us to conclude that the risk of infection is present throughoutH. marginatumactivity period, but particularly in summer.

Highlights

Strong monthly fluctuations of pathogen infection rates were observed especially forRickettsia aeschlimannii, currently identified as a human pathogen whose pathogenic status in humans and its symbiotic status inH. marginatumare both questioned.

The increase in temperature is correlated with the increase inRickettsia aeschlimanniiinfection rates, providing clues about its potential function as a symbiont inH. marginatum.

Ticks are recurrently infected with at least one other pathogen belonging toTheileriaorAnaplasmagenera with monthly fluctuations ranging from 2.9% to 28.6%.

The monthly dynamics ofH. marginatum-borne pathogens are important to consider to assess the risk posed by this tick.

Graphical abstract
A fine kinetic balance of interactions directs transcription factor hubs to genes
Authors: Fallacaro Samantha , Mukherjee Apratim , Ratchasanmuang Puttachai , Zinski Joseph , Haloush Yara I , Shankta Kareena , Mir Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Eukaryotic gene regulation relies on the binding of sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs). TFs bind chromatin transiently yet occupy their target sites by forming high-local concentration microenvironments (hubs and condensates) that increase the frequency of binding. Despite their ubiquity, such microenvironments are difficult to study in endogenous contexts due to technical limitations. Here, we use live embryo light-sheet imaging, single-molecule tracking, and genomics to overcome these limitations and investigate how hubs are localized to target genes to drive TF occupancy and transcription. By examining mutants of a hub-forming TF, Zelda, inDrosophilaembryos, we find that hub formation propensity, spatial distributions, and temporal stabilities are differentially regulated by DNA binding and disordered protein domains. We show that hub localization to genomic targets is driven by a finely-tuned kinetic balance of interactions between proteins and chromatin, and hubs can be redirected to new genomic sites when this balance is perturbed.
Evaluation of the X-ray/EUV Nanolithography Facility at AS through wavefront propagation simulations
Authors: Knappett Jerome B. M. , Haydon Blair , Cowie Bruce C. C. , Kewish Cameron M. , van Riessen Grant A.
Published: April 2024

Synchrotron light sources can provide the required spatial coherence, stability and control to support the development of advanced lithography at the extreme ultraviolet and soft X-ray wavelengths that are relevant to current and future fabricating technologies. Here an evaluation of the optical performance of the soft X-ray (SXR) beamline of the Australian Synchrotron (AS) and its suitability for developing interference lithography using radiation in the 91.8 eV (13.5 nm) to 300 eV (4.13 nm) range are presented. A comprehensive physical optics model of the APPLE-II undulator source and SXR beamline was constructed to simulate the properties of the illumination at the proposed location of a photomask, as a function of photon energy, collimation and monochromator parameters. The model is validated using a combination of experimental measurements of the photon intensity distribution of the undulator harmonics. It is shown that the undulator harmonics intensity ratio can be accurately measured using an imaging detector and controlled using beamline optics. Finally, the photomask geometric constraints and achievable performance for the limiting case of fully spatially coherent illumination are evaluated.
Discovering the conceptual building blocks of blockchain technology applications in the agri-food supply chain: a review and research agenda
Authors: González-Mendes Soraya , Alonso-Muñoz Sara , García-Muiña Fernando E. , González-Sánchez Rocío
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of the application of blockchain to agri-food supply chains, including key issues and trends. It examines the state of the art and conceptual structure of the field and proposes an agenda to guide future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This article performs a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software on a sample of 205 articles from the WoS database to identify research trend topics.

Findings

The number of publications in this area has increased since 2020, which shows a growing research interest. The research hotspots are related to the integration of blockchain technology in the agri-food supply chain for traceability, coordination between all actors involved, transparency of operations and improvement of food safety. Furthermore, this is linked to sustainability and the achievement of the sustainable development gtoals (SDGs), while addressing key challenges in the implementation of blockchain-based technologies in the agri-food supply chain.

Practical implications

The application of blockchain in the agri-food supply chain may consider four key aspects. Firstly, the implementation of blockchain can improve the traceability of food products. Secondly, this technology supports sustainability issues and could avoid disruptions in the agri-food supply chain. Third, blockchain improves food quality and safety control throughout the supply chain. Fourthly, the findings show that regulation is needed to improve trust between stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the blockchain phenomenon in the agri-food supply chain by optimising the search criteria. Moreover, it serves to bridge to future research by identifying gaps in the field.
SMEs and financial dependence: how important are foreign banks?
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The importance of financial dependence of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on their performance is a relatively unaddressed area of research. Relatedly, whether and to what extent foreign bank penetration exerts an impact in the presence of financial dependence also remains an open question. The purpose of the paper in this regard is to exploit unit-level data on Indian SMEs and assess the independent and interactive effects of financial dependence on SME behaviour, in the presence of foreign banks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses fixed effects specification to address the issue. In subsequent analysis, this study also uses an instrumental variable approach for robustness.

Findings

The results indicate that financial dependence improves investment and employment, although there is a decline in productivity. These findings differ across size classes of SMEs. Similar is the evidence in the presence of foreign banks. In particular, foreign bank penetration leads to a decline in investment for micro and medium SMEs, although for small SMEs, the impact is found to be the opposite.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is one of the early within-country studies to examine the interface between SMEs and financial dependence and the role played by foreign banks in this regard.
Simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines
Authors: Xie Zhanghuang , Li Xiaomei , Huang Dian , Appolloni Andrea , Fang Kan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

We consider a joint optimization problem of product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines, and seek to find efficient solution approaches to solve such problem.

Design/methodology/approach

We propose a mathematical formulation for the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines, and develop a simulated annealing-based hyper-heuristic algorithm with adjustable operator sequence length to solve the problem.

Findings

The simulated annealing-based hyper-heuristic algorithm with adjustable operator sequence length (SAHH-osla) that we proposed can be quite efficient in solving the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, we are one of the first to consider both cost-related and time-related criteria for the problem of simultaneous product platform design and scheduling on unrelated additive/subtractive hybrid machines.
Stopping the avalanche of trauma in schools through early intervention: a three-phase model proposal
Authors: Leh Jayne M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Groups of students were enrolled in a course that sought to produce a three-phase theoretical model over three semesters.

Design/methodology/approach

A design project to comprehensively address school violence was launched at a university in eastern Pennsylvania.

Findings

This article updates the recent and most critical finding of the project by illuminating specific implications of the importance of teacher training and the development toward competence in recognition of children who are emotionally and psychologically injured through proactive measures such as screening for emotional and psychological well-being.

Research limitations/implications

Although the model has not been tested, screening to identify those in need of emotional support and training to support teachers is clear. Screening and training offer important opportunities to help learners build skills toward resilience to soften the effects of trauma.

Practical implications

A view of the “whole child” with regard to academic success could further foster social and emotional development.

Social implications

Early intervention can prevent the onset of symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress and related disorders. This effort alone may significantly reduce the uncomfortable incidences and perhaps ultimate prevention of the violence that is perpetuated among children.

Originality/value

Preliminary research supports a continued conversation regarding effective tools to find children emotionally and psychologically at-risk, which allows teachers an opportunity for timely emotional and psychological interventions.
Empowering employees, empowering the environment: green HRM’s journey to happiness, resilience and feedback seeking
Authors: Arun Kumar P. , Nivethitha S. , Vilvanathan Lavanya
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Green HRM practices in the hospitality sector are now receiving growing interest. However, the extent to which these practices contribute towards employee non-green workplace outcomes remains largely unknown. This study explores the relationships among green HRM practices, happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs two-wave data from a sample of 306 five-star hotel employees in India. Using partial least square-structural equation modelling, the relationships are tested.

Findings

The study’s results demonstrate that green HRM practices positively impact happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour. Additionally, the relationship between green HRM practices and feedback-seeking behaviour and employee resilience is mediated by happiness at work.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing on the Job Demands-Resources Theory, Social Exchange Theory, and Broaden and Build theory, this paper proposes that green HRM practices can contribute to happiness at work, employee resilience, and feedback-seeking behaviour.

Practical implications

To establish a positive connection between green HRM practices and employee outcomes, organizations must recognize the vital role played by happiness at work as a mediator. This means that organizations must implement green HRM practices and ensure their positive impact on employee happiness at work.

Originality/value

The originality of this research lies in its holistic approach to green HRM outcomes, suggesting that the benefits of these practices extend beyond environmental impacts to influence the psychological and behavioural dimensions of employees.
Continuity of care. Patient support from hospital-to-territory care plan: protected hospital discharges
Authors: Storace Cinzia , Esposito Serafina , Iannicelli Anna Maria , Bravaccio Carmela
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To facilitate the reception and care of discharged patients, streamlining processes at the University Hospital and promoting a seamless transition to continuity of care services post-discharge.

Design/methodology/approach

Hospitalised patients undergo the Blaylock risk assessment screening score (BRASS), a screening tool identifying those at risk of complex discharge.

Findings

Pre-pandemic, patients with a medium-to-high risk of complex discharge were predominantly discharged to their residence or long-term care facilities. During the pandemic, coinciding with an overall reduction in hospitalisation rates, there was a decrease in patients being discharged to their residence.

Originality/value

The analysis of discharges, with the classification of patients into risk groups, revealed a coherence between the BRASS score and the characteristics of the studied sample. This tool aids physicians in decision-making by identifying the need for a planned discharge in a systematic and organised manner, preventing the loss of crucial information.
Towards a robust approach for evidencing quality in higher education learning: The new CALOHEE model
Authors: Wagenaar Robert
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Key to transnational higher education (HE) cooperation is building trust to allow for seamless recognition of studies. Building on the Tuning Educational Structures initiative (2001) and lessons learnt from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)-Assessment of Learning Outcomes in Higher Education (AHELO) feasibility study, this paper offers a sophisticated approach developed by the European Union (EU)-co-financed project Measuring and Comparing Achievements of Learning Outcomes in Europe (CALOHEE). These evidence the quality and relevance of learning by applying transparent and reliable indicators at the overarching and disciplinary levels. The model results allow for transnational diagnostic assessments to identify the strength and weaknesses of degree programmes.

Design/methodology/approach

The materials presented have been developed from 2016 to 2023, applying a bottom-up approach involving approximately 150 academics from 20+ European countries, reflecting the full spectrum of academic fields. Based on intensive face-to-face debate and consultation of stakeholders and anchored in academic literature and wide experience.

Findings

As a result, general (overarching) state-of-the-art reference frameworks have been prepared for the associated degree, bachelor, master and doctorate, as well as aligned qualifications reference frameworks and more detailed learning outcomes/assessment frameworks for 11 subject areas, offering a sound basis for quality assurance. As a follow-up, actual assessment formats for five academic fields have been developed to allow for measuring the actual level of learning at the institutional level from a comparative perspective.

Originality/value

Frameworks as well as assessment models and items are highly innovative, content-wise as in the strategy of development, involving renown academics finding common ground. Its value is not limited to Europe but has global significance. The model developed, is also relevant for micro-credentials in defining levels of mastery.
Assessing the impact of big data analytics capability on radical innovation: is business intelligence always a path?
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Gao Yang , Liu Yexin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines the mediating roles of the three dimensions of business intelligence (sensing capability, transforming capability and driving capability) in the relationship between the three dimensions of big data analytics capability (big data analytics management, technology and talent capabilities), and radical innovation among Chinese manufacturing enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical framework was developed using the resource-based view. The hypothesis was tested using empirical survey data from 326 Chinese manufacturing enterprises.

Findings

Empirical results show that, in the Chinese manufacturing context, business intelligence sensing capability, business intelligence transforming capability and business intelligence driving capability positively mediate the impact of big data analytics capability on radical innovation.

Practical implications

The results offer managerial guidance for leaders to properly use big data analytics capability, business intelligence and radical innovation as well as offering theoretical insight for future research in the manufacturing industry’s radical innovation.

Originality/value

This is among the first studies to examine three dimensions of big data analytics capability on the manufacturing industry’s radical innovation by considering the mediating role of three dimensions of business intelligence.
An evaluation of organizational climate and its relationship with job burnout in hospital and college libraries
Authors: Sohani Fatemeh , Valizadeh-Haghi Saeideh , Nasibi-Sis Hamed , Zandkarimi Sana , Sheikhshoaei Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The library is one of the critical foundations of informing and educating the public, and it should fulfil its function in the community, which is disseminating knowledge effectively. The library must have a dynamic space and an appropriate atmosphere to do this. Also, librarians should assist clients outside of stressful work environments. This study aimed to examine the association between organizational climate and job burnout in the hospital and college libraries of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a cross-sectional survey. The population includes all librarians working in the college and hospital libraries of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. Two questionnaires, including organizational climate “ClimateQUAL” and job burnout “Maslach and Jackson”, were applied to collect data. It was hypothesized that there is a correlation between the organizational climate and the burnout of librarians.

Findings

The findings revealed that the organizational climate and job burnout are not in a favourable situation, with average scores of 4.70 and 2.50, respectively. Furthermore, there is a significant statistical relationship between organizational climate and job burnout (p-value<0.001).

Originality/value

Knowledge of the significant relationship between the organizational climate and job burnout in medical libraries may encourage policymakers to make more efforts to provide their staff with a better climate and less burnout. Regarding that it is crucial to enhance the existing condition in medical libraries, the findings of the present study suggest that policymakers should be conscious of improving the current condition, which could lead to promoting patrons’ satisfaction and productivity in the mentioned libraries.
Successful repigmentation of hypopigmented scars with micropunch grafting with a skin‐seeding technique
Authors: Kim Dong Seok , Kim Jin Cheol , Baek Du Jin , Kang Hee Young
Published: April 2024

Hypopigmented scars are challenging to treat, and the focus for successful treatment is to cause pigment cells to produce more melanin. In this study, we evaluated the repigmentation effects of 0.4 mm motorized‐micropunch grafting with skin‐seeding for hypopigmented scars. Twenty‐one patients with hypopigmented scars on the face and neck that had been resistant to conventional treatment and who had finally undergone micropunch grafting with a skin‐seeding technique (SST) were retrospectively reviewed. Repigmentation outcomes were evaluated with global assessment by a physician using a 4‐point repigmentation scale. Adverse events were noted. The subjects were followed for a 2‐year follow‐up period post grafting. All 21 subjects exhibited excellent to complete repigmentation of more than 75% of the hypopigmented scars. More than 90% repigmentation was observed in 17 patients. The mean duration for repigmentation that the subjects were satisfied with was 5.5 months. No adverse effects or recurrence instances were observed. Motorized micropunch grafting is an effective and promising alternative treatment for repigmentation of hypopigmented scars.
Radiation‐induced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma showing a significant response to pembrolizumab: A case report
Authors: Takahashi‐Watanabe Manami , Fujimura Taku , Amagai Ryo , Ohuchi Kentaro , Yamazaki Emi , Tamabuchi Erika , Kuroki Shigeru , Kambayashi Yumi , Hashimoto Akira , Asano Yoshihide
Published: April 2024

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) arising from radiation dermatitis has a higher risk of metastasis than conventional cSCC. Immunosuppression is another risk factor for cSCC, suggesting that mycosis fungoides (MF) could be a risk factor for cSCC. Here we report a case of radiation‐induced cSCC with a high level of tumor‐mutation burden that developed in a patient with MF who was successfully treated with pembrolizumab. The present case suggests that pembrolizumab might be an optimal therapy for radiation‐induced cSCC, even at advanced stages.
Priority Setting as the Blind Spot of Administrative Law Enforcement: A Theoretical, Conceptual, and Empirical Study of Competition Authorities in Europe
Authors: Brook Or , Cseres Katalin J.
Published: April 2024

Priority setting by independent regulatory agencies (IRAs) is an invisible, yet essential, component of regulatory law enforcement. The selection of which cases to enforce and which to disregard is vital given IRAs’ finite resources, and due to the function of concretising open‐ended administrative norms. Clear enforcement priorities allow IRAs to focus on matters of genuine economic, societal, and doctrinal importance, solve complex socio‐economic problems and build credible, independent, and accountable authorities. However, as a blindspot of administrative discretion, to date neither a normative framework to assess IRAs’ priority setting rules and practices nor a shared terminology to evaluate its different features has developed. This article fills this gap by developing a novel typology and normative framework to guide IRAs’ priority setting, based on a historical, conceptual, and empirical study focusing on the case of independent competition authorities. It combines insights from top‐down analysis of administrative and criminal law enforcement with bottom‐up empirical research and engagement with IRAs using EU competition law enforcement as a case study.
DNA methylation‐based telomere length is associated with HIV infection, physical frailty, cancer, and all‐cause mortality
Authors: Liang Xiaoyu , Aouizerat Bradley E. , So‐Armah Kaku , Cohen Mardge H. , Marconi Vincent C. , Xu Ke , Justice Amy C.
Published: April 2024

Telomere length (TL) is an important indicator of cellular aging. Shorter TL is associated with several age‐related diseases including coronary heart disease, heart failure, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer. Recently, a DNA methylation‐based TL (DNAmTL) estimator has been developed as an alternative method for directly measuring TL. In this study, we examined the association of DNAmTL with cancer prevalence and mortality risk among people with and without HIV in the Veterans Aging Cohort Study Biomarker Cohort (VACS, N = 1917) and Women's Interagency HIV Study Cohort (WIHS, N = 481). We profiled DNAm in whole blood (VACS) or in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (WIHS) using an array‐based method. Cancer prevalence was estimated from electronic medical records and cancer registry data. The VACS Index was used as a measure of physiologic frailty. Models were adjusted for self‐reported race and ethnicity, batch, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and five cell types (CD4, CD8, NK, B cell, and monocyte). We found that people with HIV had shorter average DNAmTL than those without HIV infection [beta = −0.25, 95% confidence interval (−0.32, −0.18), p = 1.48E‐12]. Greater value of VACS Index [beta = −0.002 (−0.003, −0.001), p = 2.82E‐05] and higher cancer prevalence [beta = −0.07 (−0.10, −0.03), p = 1.37E‐04 without adjusting age] were associated with shortened DNAmTL. In addition, one kilobase decrease in DNAmTL was associated with a 40% increase in mortality risk [hazard ratio: 0.60 (0.44, 0.82), p = 1.42E‐03]. In summary, HIV infection, physiologic frailty, and cancer are associated with shortening DNAmTL, contributing to an increased risk of all‐cause mortality.
Personality correlates of past‐year alcohol use in individuals with severe alcohol use disorder and a lifetime history of involvement in alcoholics anonymous
Authors: Lannoy Séverine , Svikis Dace S. , Stephenson Mallory , Polak Kathryn , Kendler Kenneth S. , Edwards Alexis C.
Published: April 2024

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a highly impairing condition with important public health impacts. Despite the availability of treatment options for AUD, research shows that few people receive treatment, and even fewer can maintain abstinence/low‐drinking levels. This study investigated the role of personality traits in past‐year alcohol use among individuals with severe AUD who ever attended Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a widespread and easily accessible self‐help group for alcohol problems.

Methods

Univariable and multivariable regressions were performed separately in females and males with alcohol consumption as an outcome. Socioeconomic factors, genetic liability, and psychopathology were included as covariates in the analyses.

Results

Results from the multivariable model indicated that in females who attended AA, greater alcohol use was related to both positive and negative urgency and low sensation seeking, while in males, greater alcohol use was related to positive urgency. Results also showed that, in both sexes, younger age and lower educational levels were associated with greater alcohol use. Moreover, single males and individuals with lower AUD severity were at higher risk of using alcohol in the past year.

Conclusions

These findings highlight sex‐specific correlates of drinking in individuals with AUD who engaged in self‐help groups. These findings may help to improve treatment options, as personality encompasses modifiable traits that can be targeted in psychological interventions.
Mapping structural covariance networks of emotional withdrawal symptoms in males with methamphetamine use disorder during abstinence
Authors: Mo Xian , Jiang Ping , Sun Jiayu , Lu Lu , Li Lei , Huang Xiaoqi , Xu Jiajun , Li Jing , Zhang Junran , Gong Qiyong
Published: April 2024

Individuals with methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) often experience anxiety and depressive symptoms during abstinence, which can worsen the likelihood of relapse. Thus, it is essential to understand the neuro‐mechanism behind methamphetamine use and its associated emotional withdrawal symptoms in order to develop effective clinical strategies. This study aimed to evaluate associations between emotional withdrawal symptoms and structural covariance networks (SCNs) based on cortical thickness (CTh) across the brain. The CTh measures were obtained from Tl‐weighted MRI data from a sample of 48 males with MUD during abstinence and 48 male healthy controls. The severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms was assessed by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and depression (HAMD) scales. Two important nodes belonging to the brain reward system, the right rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC) and medial prefrontal cortex (medPFC), were selected as seeds to conduct SCNs and modulation analysis by emotional symptoms. MUDs showed higher structural covariance between the right rACC and regions in the dorsal attention, right frontoparietal, auditory, visual and limbic networks. They also displayed higher structural covariance between the right medPFC and regions in the limbic network. Moreover, the modulation analysis showed that higher scores on HAMA were associated with increased covariance between the right rACC and the left parahippocampal and isthmus cingulate cortex in the default mode network. These outcomes shed light on the complex neurobiological mechanisms underlying methamphetamine use and its associated emotional withdrawal symptoms and may provide new insights into the development of effective treatments for MUD.
Still a ‘boys’ club': a qualitative analysis of how gender affects a career in anaesthesia in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Carter J. C. , Purcell N. , Stewart C. H. , Pearce G. C. , Balkin M. , Allen K. J.
Published: April 2024

Gender inequity remains an issue in anaesthesia despite increasing numbers of women training and achieving fellowship in the speciality. Women are under‐represented in all areas of anaesthetic research, academia and leadership. The Gender Equity Subcommittee of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists recently conducted a survey asking “Does gender still matter in the pursuit of a career in anaesthesia in 2022?”. The survey was distributed to a randomly selected sample of 1225 anaesthetic consultants and completed by 470 respondents (38% response rate) with 793 free‐text comments provided. Three overarching themes were identified: gender effects on the career and family interface; women do not fit the mould; and gender equity changes the status quo. Women respondents described a need to make a choice between career and family, which was not described by men, as well as stigmatisation of part‐time work, a lack of access to challenging work and negative impacts of parental leave. Women respondents also described a sense of marginalisation within anaesthesia due to a ‘boys’ club' mentality, a lack of professional respect and insufficient structural supports for women in leadership. This was compounded for women from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds. A need for specific strategies to support anaesthetic careers for women was described as well as normalisation of flexibility in workplaces, combined with a broadening of our definition of success to allow people of all genders to experience fulfilment both at home and at work. This study is the first published qualitative data on factors affecting gender equity for anaesthetists in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. It highlights the need for further exploration, as well providing a foundation for changes in attitude and structural changes towards advancing gender equity.
Modelling motion energy in psychotherapy: A dynamical systems approach
Authors: Dattner Itai
Published: April 2024

In this study we introduce an innovative mathematical and statistical framework for the analysis of motion energy dynamics in psychotherapy sessions. Our method combines motion energy dynamics with coupled linear ordinary differential equations and a measurement error model, contributing new clinical parameters to enhance psychotherapy research. Our approach transforms raw motion energy data into an interpretable account of therapist–patient interactions, providing novel insights into the dynamics of these interactions. A key aspect of our framework is the development of a new measure of synchrony between the motion energies of therapists and patients, which holds significant clinical and theoretical value in psychotherapy. The practical applicability and effectiveness of our modelling and estimation framework are demonstrated through the analysis of real session data. This work advances the quantitative analysis of motion dynamics in psychotherapy, offering important implications for future research and therapeutic practice.
Extracellular vesicles as potential diagnostic markers for kidney allograft rejection
Authors: Thongwitokomarn Harit , Noppakun Kajohnsak , Chaiwarith Romanee , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: April 2024

Kidney transplantation is a highly effective treatment for end‐stage kidney disease. However, allograft rejection remains a significant clinical challenge in kidney transplant patients. Although kidney allograft biopsy is the gold‐standard diagnostic method, it is an invasive procedure. Since the current monitoring methods, including screening of serum creatinine and urinary protein, are not of sufficient sensitivity, there is a need for effective post‐transplant monitoring to detect allograft rejection at an early stage. Extracellular vesicles are vesicles with a lipid bilayer that originate from different cell types in pathological and physiological conditions. The content of extracellular vesicles reflects the status of cells at the time of their production. This review comprehensively summarizes clinical, in vivo, and in vitro reports that highlight the potential of extracellular vesicles as diagnostic biomarkers for kidney allograft rejection. Clarification would facilitate differentiation between rejection and non‐rejection and identification of the mechanisms involved in the allograft rejection. Despite increasing evidence, further research is necessary to establish the clinical utility of extracellular vesicles in the diagnosis and monitoring of allograft rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Using extracellular vesicles as non‐invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of kidney allograft rejection could have tremendous benefits in improving patient outcomes and reduce the need for invasive procedures.
Higher agency costs in smaller firms? The role of size and reporting requirements in agency conflicts
Authors: Johannes Pauline , Lefebvre Vivien
Published: April 2024

Our paper investigates vertical agency conflicts that result from the separation of ownership and control in privately held firms. Vertical agency conflicts can lead to vertical agency costs resulting from bonding costs, monitoring costs, and residual losses. More specifically, we focus on the roles of firm size and corporate reporting requirements in the level of these costs. We demonstrate that vertical agency costs are higher in smaller, privately held firms because shareholders have less monitoring capacity and limited access to the labor market. Furthermore, vertical agency costs in smaller firms are amplified in countries characterized by relatively weaker reporting requirements because shareholders have less information available to assess managers' actions. We suggest for the first time that firm size and strength of auditing and reporting requirements are essential to understanding agency costs' magnitude in privately held firms. Our analysis also offers a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that explain agency costs in privately held firms. Thus, this study poses important implications for public policy, as disclosure requirements are a major issue for many countries.
Longing for belonging: Feeling loved (or not) and why it matters
Authors: Ali Sumbleen , Rohner Ronald P. , Britner Preston A. , Jahn Andrew
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study tested the hypothesis that adults who report having been unloved/rejected in childhood are likely to show greater activation in specific brain regions than adults who report a history of parental love/acceptance.

Background

Interpersonal acceptance‐rejection theory (IPARTheory) argues that a specific set of effects of perceived parental acceptance and rejection appear with such near invariance across populations worldwide that it is likely that they are related to humankind's common biocultural evolution. If this is true, specific brain mechanisms are likely to differentially characterize responses to parental acceptance versus rejection.

Method

Using fMRI, the study experimentally manipulated rejection during a computer‐based ball‐toss game among 40 young adults. One group reported having been loved/accepted by both parents in childhood and self‐reported being psychologically well‐adjusted (AcceptedAdjusted, n = 20). The other group reported having been unloved/rejected by both parents in childhood and self‐reported being psychologically maladjusted (RejectedMaladjusted, n = 20).

Results

Members of the RejectedMaladjusted group—as compared to members of the AcceptedAdjusted group—had increased activation in the posterior cingulate cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, insula, cuneus, precuneus, and amygdala. These brain regions critically support emotion processing.

Conclusion

This study provides a foundation for understanding neural mechanisms underlying emotion processing, as influenced by adults' memories of parental love or lack of love (acceptance‐rejection) in childhood.

Implications

Findings may help clinicians and practitioners design therapeutic interventions that can lead to structural and functional changes in brain areas associated with emotion regulation, possibly counteracting some of the negative effects of early emotional trauma.
Efficacy of administering a sugar‐free flavor before dental injections on pain perception in children: A split‐mouth randomized crossover clinical trial
Authors: Al‐Batayneh Ola B. , Abu‐Abbas Razan , Al‐Saleh Majd
Published: April 2024

Background

Sweet taste administration before dental injections helps to control associated pain in children.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of using a sugar‐free flavor on pain perception during dental injections.

Design

Children (n = 84) aged 4–9 (mean 6.71 ± 1.55) years who required buccal infiltration bilaterally participated in this split‐mouth randomized crossover study. On the test side (flavor visit), infiltration injections were applied after receiving a sugar‐free flavor. On the control side (no flavor visit), sterile water was administered. Demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), and sweet taste preference (STP) were recorded. Pain perception during injection was measured using heart rate (HR), sound, eyes, and motor (SEM) scale, and Wong–Baker Faces pain scale (WBFPS).

Results

Most children had healthy weight (72.6%) and equal STP (32.1%). In the test side, mean HR during injection, HR differences before and during injection, and SEM scores were significantly lower (p < .001, for all). There was no significant difference in the WBFPS between both visits. Flavor had a significant effect on pain reduction (p = .001 for HR, p = .000 for SEM), whereas age, gender, BMI, STP, and treatment side did not. Treatment sequence had a significant effect on total SEM scores (p = .021); children who received the flavor during their first visit had lower SEM scores.

Conclusion

Using a sugar‐free flavor before dental injections helps in reducing associated pain in children.