bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trustworthiness, motivation and reward as predictors of knowledge sharing attitude and intention among students
Authors: Warraich Nosheen Fatima , Riaz Zoonash , Ali Irfan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Knowledge is considered an asset for any organization. To distribute knowledge and expertise among stakeholders of an organization, there is a need to develop knowledge sharing (KS) culture. However, different factors affect KS. This study aims to identify the influence of trustworthiness (trust, ability, benevolence and integrity) and motivation and reward on KS attitudes and intentions of law students.

Design/methodology/approach

The objectives of the study were achieved by using a quantitative research design. Law students of the colleges affiliated with Punjab University were the population for the present research. The sampling frame of the study was all law colleges, and data was collected through a convenient sampling technique. Data was collected through personal visits to sampled colleges. Questionnaires were circulated among 330 respondents and two hundred valid responses were collected with a 61% response rate. Descriptive analysis was completed using SPSS and path analysis was measured through SmartPLS. The quality of the measurement model was assessed and then hypotheses were tested.

Findings

Findings revealed that there was no impact of trustworthiness (trust, ability, benevolence and integrity) on the KS attitude of students. However, motivation and rewards significantly impacted (ß = 0.590; p > 0.01) the KS attitudes. KS attitude also has a significant impact on KS intentions (ß = 0.560; p > 0.01).

Originality/value

The current study is a valuable addition to the literature by providing the impact of trustworthiness, motivation and reward on law students’ KS intentions and attitudes in developing countries. The present study also provides insights for authorities and decision-makers in making decisions regarding the development of KS among students.
Examining the nexus of building regulations, urban planning, and housing prices and affordability: insights from Prishtina, Kosovo
Authors: Hoxha Visar
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the relationship between building regulations, urban planning, and perceptions of housing affordability and prices in Prishtina, Kosovo.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-report survey with 1,000 respondents, selected through stratified probability sampling, provided the necessary data. Principal component analysis was applied to the questionnaire's internal structure, while regression analysis helped uncover housing affordability and housing prices perception predictors.

Findings

The study found that building regulation standards and zoning/land-use regulations reveal positive relationships with housing prices and housing affordability perception. Among these components, building regulations and standards show a stronger connection with housing affordability and price perception in comparison to urban planning and development.

Research limitations/implications

By investigating the relationship between building regulations, urban planning, and housing affordability and price perception in Prishtina, the present research makes a valuable contribution to the existing literature. The findings of this research hold significant implications for policymakers, urban planners, and developers, highlighting the relevance of adopting a well-balanced approach to building regulations and urban planning in order to uphold and maintain housing affordability and understand housing price dynamics.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research originates from the investigation of these relationships within a rapidly urbanizing city context, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between regulatory policies and outcomes in the housing market. Further research should examine additional dimensions and employ longitudinal designs to gain a deeper understanding of the components predicting housing affordability and price perception in Prishtina and similar urban contexts.
Navigating gendered spaces: a feminist phenomenological exploration of women entrepreneurs lived experiences within government support agencies
Authors: Oliveira Edicleia , Basini Serge , Cooney Thomas M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This article explores women entrepreneurs' lived experiences in their interactions with government enterprise support agencies. It investigates the relationship between gendering and Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO), as a normative orientation adopted at the institutional level and justified by an economic rationale. It also explores how women entrepreneurs articulate their experiences through embodied metaphors and image schemas, shedding light on how they navigate the institutional entrepreneurial space.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is framed within the concept of Phenomenological Orientation as conceptualised in feminist phenomenology. It applies Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, a qualitative methodology focused on interpreting accounts of first-person lived experiences of a phenomenon. It combines IPA with Conceptual Metaphor Theory to understand women's articulation of their embodied relationship within the entrepreneurial space.

Findings

Findings reveal that the entrepreneurial orientation functions as a gendering process within entrepreneurial institutions, reinforcing masculine hegemonic ideals and marginalising women entrepreneurs. Women's phenomenological orientations often diverge from the normative entrepreneurial orientation, highlighting the need for a more inclusive framework in institutional entrepreneurial spaces.

Research limitations/implications

This article contributes to women's entrepreneurship literature by underlining the temporal dimension of entrepreneurship and the tension that underpins their interactions with government support bodies. It calls for inclusive policies and procedures to match the heterogeneity of orientations. While highlighting its limitations, it also suggests future research directions to deepen the understanding of entrepreneurship and inform more suitable support structures for all entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by shedding light on the nuanced interplay between gendering, entrepreneurial orientation, and women entrepreneurs' lived experiences. It extends previous research by framing “orientation” within a temporality framework, offering a novel perspective on the gendering of entrepreneurial spaces.
Social comparisons at social networking sites: how social Media-induced fear of missing out and envy drive compulsive use
Authors: Tandon Anushree , Laato Samuli , Islam Najmul , Dhir Amandeep
Published: August 2024

Purpose

A major portion of our social interaction now occurs online, facilitated by social networking sites (SNSs) that enable people to connect and communicate at will. However, the characteristics of SNS communication can introduce problematic outcomes on otherwise healthy processes, one of which is social comparison. In this work, we investigate whether compulsive SNS use could be driven by two phenomena related to social comparison: the fear of missing out (FoMO) and envy.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the stimulus-organism-response framework, we developed a model that was tested with data from a sample of SNS users (N = 330) based in the United States. The analysis was done through partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

Our findings show FoMO's association with the two forms of dispositional experienced envy, benign and malicious, as well as expected envy of others (expected envy). Interestingly, benign and expected envy were associated with SNS stalking and self-disclosure, but malicious envy had non-significant associations. Finally, both SNS stalking and self-disclosure were linked to compulsive SNS use.

Originality/value

We study the nuanced ways in which the two forms of experienced envy and expected envy can be triggered by FoMO and result in users' engagement with problematic SNS use. Our research provides evidence that, in addition to benign envy being an antecedent of compulsive SNS use, the wish to invoke envious feelings in others can also significantly drive compulsive use.
Economic freedom and its subcomponents: effects on Islamic bank performance
Authors: Masrizal  , Sukmana Raditya , Fianto Bayu Arie , Abd. Majid M. Shabri
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the profitability of Islamic banks benefits from economic freedom and its subcomponents.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a sample of 41 Islamic banks from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Countries selected from 2010–2020. It conducts an empirical approach based on the System Generalized Method of Moments (SGMM).

Findings

Overall, economic freedom has a substantial impact on the profitability of Islamic banks. We then investigate the relationship between the subcomponents of economic freedom and the profitability of Islamic banks. The study’s breakdown components suggest that financial and investment freedoms are favorable indicators, while business and monetary freedoms have a negative effect.

Practical implications

This research can serve as a guideline for Islamic bank management in terms of maintaining performance. The results of this study provide policy implications for the government to offer friendly regulations for economic actors to engage in financial transactions by looking at the economic freedom sub-component.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, the study of the role of economic freedom in Islamic banking performance is limited, particularly in the context of OIC Countries.
Volatility dynamics in energy and agriculture markets: An analysis of domestic and global uncertainty factors
Authors: Simran  , Sharma Anil K.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between uncertainty indicators and volatility of commodity futures, with a specific focus on agriculture and energy sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyse the volatility of Indian agriculture and energy futures using the GARCH-MIDAS model, taking into account different types of uncertainty factors. The evaluation of out-sample predictive capability involves the application of out-sample R-squared test and computation of various loss functions.

Findings

The research outcomes underscore the significant impact of diverse uncertainty factors such as domestic economic policy uncertainty (EPU), global EPU (GEPU), US EPU and geopolitical risk (GPR) on long-run volatility of Indian energy and agriculture (agri) futures. Additionally, the study demonstrates that GPR exhibits superior predictive capability for crude oil futures volatility, while domestic EPU stands out as an effective predictor for agri futures, particularly castor seed and guar gum.

Practical implications

The study offers practical implications for market participants and policymakers to adopt a comprehensive perspective, incorporating diverse uncertainty factors, for informed decision-making and effective risk management in commodity markets.

Originality/value

The research makes an inaugural attempt to examine the impact of domestic and global uncertainty indicators on modelling and predicting volatility in energy and agri futures. The distinctive feature of considering an emerging market also adds a novel dimension to the research landscape.
Unveiling the nexus: organization inclusion, ethical virtues and organizational citizenship behavior in the hospitality sector
Authors: Masood Ayesha , Ding Dan , Agarwal Reeti , Nijjer Shivinder , Sasso Pasquale
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the intricate dynamics within the hospitality service sector, which predominantly employs low-wage and low-skilled workers. These employees frequently encounter challenges related to breaches in their psychological contracts. Despite their critical role in customer service, their experiences are often overlooked in organizational inclusion research. We investigate the relationship between employees’ perceptions of organizational inclusion and their assessments of organizational ethical virtues (OEVs), considering the potential moderating effect of psychological contract breach. Furthermore, it explores how these factors influence customer- and organizationdirected organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs).

Design/methodology/approach

Our research design incorporates a two-stage moderated-mediation model to test our proposed hypotheses empirically. A two-source sample of 451 European hotel managers and employees extends the inquiry with the proposed model. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the proposed relationships.

Findings

Findings reveal that organization inclusion is positively associated with OEV and employee-perceived OEV mediates an indirect link between organization inclusion on customer-oriented OCB. Moreover, psychological contract breach (P CB) attenuates the association between organization inclusion and OEV at the first stage and OEV, and OCB at the second stage.

Originality/value

The findings robustly corroborate our proposed model. The study findings culminate in a discussion accentuating the extensive implications of our findings for both research and practicality within the hospitality sector. Anchored in empirical revelations, we delineate avenues for future exploration in this pivotal domain.
The cost of debt around the IPO
Authors: Suleiman David
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide empirical evidence on a possible economic explanation for changes in borrowing costs of US private firms that are going public.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an OLS regression with firm fixed effects and the IPO as an information releasing event that alters information asymmetries between borrowers and lenders and relying on several proxies for pre-IPO information asymmetries, I analyze the impact of the IPO on changes in borrowing costs from before to right after an IPO of firms with high pre-IPO information asymmetries.

Findings

My findings indicate that small firms, firms with high R&D, firms with negative EBITDA and firms with a single lending relationship benefit more from going public by realizing larger decreases in borrowing costs after an IPO than firms with lower pre-IPO information asymmetries. The results are consistent with changing information asymmetries caused by the IPO event playing a role in changes in borrowing costs after the IPO. Furthermore, I provide empirical evidence that a reduction in the lender’s bargaining power due to the IPO event plays an important role in explaining changes in borrowing costs around that time.

Originality/value

This study uses a hand-collected data set of loans obtained from financial statements issued by US firms at the time of their IPO. As a result, I am able to comprehensively document changes of borrowing costs of US private firms going public and shed light on one of the economic forces behind those changes.
Mandatory environmental disclosure policy in the largest carbon emission country
Authors: Cai Wei , Bai Min , Davey Howard
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of corporate environmental transparency (CET) on corporate financial performance under a mandatory environmental disclosure policy in China, the largest carbon-emitting country. It aims to clarify the concept of CET and investigate its short-term financial implications for key pollutant-discharging entities (KPEs).

Design/methodology/approach

A multidimensional model is used to construct a comprehensive CET index for KPEs in China. Empirical tests are conducted to assess the relationship between CET and corporate financial performance.

Findings

The study finds a negative relationship between CET and corporate financial performance in the short term. Increased environmental transparency necessitates higher environmental resource allocation, adversely affecting profits. The results remain unchanged from a battery of robustness tests. Despite mandatory disclosure, companies tend to provide general and vague information rather than specific and meaningful environmental data.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide rich practical implications for policymakers to improve a mandatory environmental disclosure policy. The paper also contributes to the existing knowledge by developing a measure of CET and presenting new evidence to the debate on whether corporate environmental disclosure can be regarded as transparency.

Practical implications

Policymakers are advised to refine mandatory environmental disclosure regulations to ensure genuine transparency and to implement policy measures that alleviate the financial burdens of companies with high CET levels, thereby encouraging sustainable practices.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing knowledge by developing a measure of CET and providing new evidence on the debate over whether environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure equates to transparency. It emphasizes the complexity of transparency and the inadequacy of current environmental disclosure practices among KPEs. The study underscores the need for financial support for companies with high CET levels to alleviate short-term financial strains and promote long-term sustainability.
Investigation on influencing factors of wheel polygonization of a plateau high-speed EMU train
Authors: Li Wei , Yang Xiaoxuan , Wang Peng , Wen Zefeng , Han Jian
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the cause of high-order wheel polygonization in a plateau high-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) train.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of field tests were conducted to measure the vibration accelerations of the axle box and bogie when the wheels of the EMU train passed through tracks with normal rail roughness after re-profiling. Additionally, the dynamic characteristics of the track, wheelset and bogie were also measured. These measurements provided insights into the mechanisms that lead to wheel polygonization.

Findings

The results of the field tests indicate that wheel polygonal wear in the EMU train primarily exhibits 14–16 and 25–27 harmonic orders. The passing frequencies of wheel polygonization were approximately 283–323 Hz and 505–545 Hz, which closely match the dominated frequencies of axle box and bogie vibrations. These findings suggest that the fixed-frequency vibrations originate from the natural modes of the wheelset and bogie, which can be excited by wheel/rail irregularities.

Originality/value

The study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of high-order wheel polygonization in plateau high-speed EMU trains. Futher, the results indicate that operating the EMU train on mixed lines at variable speeds could potentially mitigate high-order polygonal wear, providing practical value for improving the safety, performance and maintenance efficiency of high-speed EMU trains.
HLA‐C*06:02 in Danish patients with psoriasis and response to biological treatment
Authors: Bergmann Mie Siewertsen , Loft Nikolai , Schwarz Christopher Willy , Kaur‐Knudsen Diljit , Zachariae Claus , Skov Lone
Published: August 2024

Whether clinical and genetic markers can be used to differentiate patients with varying responses to different psoriasis therapies needs to be elucidated. Here, we assess whether human leukocyte antigen C (HLA‐C)*06:02 is associated with response to biologics. Response to treatment was defined as a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score of ≤2 (PASI≤ 2) after 3 months. In total, 648 patients with psoriasis initiating treatment with biologics were included; 289 were HLA‐C*06:02 positive and 359 were HLA‐C*06:02 negative. Patients were treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors (n = 469), interleukin (IL)‐12/23 inhibitors (n = 92), IL‐17 inhibitors (n = 78), and IL‐23 inhibitors (n = 9). Significantly more patients positive for HLA‐C*06:02 achieved PASI≤ 2 compared with patients negative for HLA‐C*06:02 when treated with IL‐12/23 inhibitors. There was no significant difference between response in HLA‐C*06:02 positive and negative patients for TNF inhibitors or IL‐17 inhibitors. No analyses were conducted for IL‐23 inhibitors because of the limited number of patients. The data confirm that HLA‐C*06:02 may be used as a biomarker for response to anti‐IL12/23 treatment.
Approaches and methods to study wildlife cancer
Authors: Giraudeau Mathieu , Vincze Orsolya , Dupont Sophie M. , Sepp Tuul , Baines Ciara , Lemaitre Jean‐Francois , Lemberger Karin , Gentès Sophie , Boddy Amy , Dujon Antoine M. , Bramwell Georgina , Harris Valerie , Ujvari Beata , Alix‐Panabières Catherine , Lair Stephane , Sayag David , Conde Dalia A. , Colchero Fernando , Harrison Tara M. , Pavard Samuel , Padilla‐Morales Benjamin , Chevallier Damien , Hamede Rodrigo , Roche Benjamin , Malkocs Tamas , Aktipis Athena C. , Maley Carlo , DeGregori James , Le Loc’h Guillaume , Thomas Frédéric
Published: August 2024

The last few years have seen a surge of interest from field ecologists and evolutionary biologists to study neoplasia and cancer in wildlife. This contributes to the One Health Approach, which investigates health issues at the intersection of people, wild and domestic animals, together with their changing environments. Nonetheless, the emerging field of wildlife cancer is currently constrained by methodological limitations in detecting cancer using non‐invasive sampling. In addition, the suspected differential susceptibility and resistance of species to cancer often make the choice of a unique model species difficult for field biologists.

Here, we provide an overview of the importance of pursuing the study of cancer in non‐model organisms and we review the currently available methods to detect, measure and quantify cancer in the wild, as well as the methodological limitations to be overcome to develop novel approaches inspired by diagnostic techniques used in human medicine.

The methodology we propose here will help understand and hopefully fight this major disease by generating general knowledge about cancer, variation in its rates, tumour‐suppressor mechanisms across species as well as its link to life history and physiological characters. Moreover, this is expected to provide key information about cancer in wildlife, which is a top priority due to the accelerated anthropogenic change in the past decades that might favour cancer progression in wild populations.
Individual differences in text processing and recall in children with and without ADHD
Authors: Ward Olivia , Friesen Deanna C.
Published: August 2024

The current study examined whether children with and without ADHD differed in text processing when contradictory information was present. Forty‐seven children between 10 and 14 years old performed a self‐paced reading task. Half the passages contained contradictory information. Additionally, language and cognitive skills were assessed to examine the relationships between text processing and individual differences in these abilities (working memory, oral sentence recognition, verbal and non‐verbal intelligence, word reading fluency and decoding ability). Results indicate that the non‐ADHD group modulated their reading behaviour based on the presence of inconsistent information, whereas the ADHD group did so in response to the consistent information. However, this task effect in the ADHD group was primarily observed with children who scored low on background measures (e.g., verbal intelligence, working memory). Additionally, the children with ADHD recalled fewer units of information than their non‐ADHD peers. Correlations demonstrated that the pattern of relationships between the text comprehension measures (i.e., true‐false test and text recall) and the background measures differed between the two groups, such that measures were more closely associated with each other in the ADHD group. Results are discussed in terms of educational implications to support children with ADHD who experience reading comprehension difficulties.
Therapeutic apheresis treatment in rheumatic diseases: Insights from a single‐center experience
Authors: Çimen Güneş Ezgi , Tekgöz Emre , Çolak Seda , Sayın Selim , Şirin Hülya , Aylı Meltem , Çınar Muhammet , Yılmaz Sedat
Published: August 2024

Introduction

We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the patients with a rheumatologic disease who underwent TPE.

Method

A single‐center, retrospective study was conducted between January 2016 and June 2023.

Results

Twenty patients with a median age of 51 years received a median of 6 TPE sessions. Concurrently, immunosuppressive therapy was administered to 18 (90%) of them. During the follow‐up period, 9 patients (45%) died. Creatinine (p = 0.001), C‐reactive protein (p = 0.001), sedimentation rate (p = 0.002), leukocyte (p = 0.003), thrombocyte (p = 0.003), and neutrophil (p = 0.003) counts was decreased after TPE. Similarly, in the ROC analysis of post TPE laboratory parameters, urea, creatinine, CRP, hemoglobin, platelets, and lymphocytes predicted mortality with areas under the curve values ranging from 0.747 to 0.869. In the Cox regression analysis for mortality, creatinine was predictive for mortality (p = 0.030), HR 1.59 (95% CI: 1.05–2.41).

Conclusion

In rheumatologic conditions, TPE is beneficial to fill the gap until the effects of immunosuppressants become apparent.
Immune‐inflammatory markers and clinical characteristics as predictors of the depth of response and prognosis of patients with PD‐L1 ≥50% metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer receiving first‐line immunotherapy
Authors: Zheng Xixi , Zhou Lili , Shi Hui , An Juan , Xu Weiran , Ding Xiaosheng , Hua Yichun , Shi Weiwei , Li Xiaoyan
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) ≥50% metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with first‐line immunotherapy showed heterogeneous tumor responses. In this study, we investigated the clinical and immune‐inflammatory markers distinguishing patients with metastatic NSCLC achieving high depth of tumor response (HDPR) from those with non‐high depth of response (NHDPR). The impact of clinical features on the prognosis of patients with PD‐L1 ≥50% were further clarified.

Methods

The clinical characteristics and immune‐inflammatory markers of 17 patients with PD‐L1 ≥50% metastatic NSCLC at Beijing Tiantan Hospital between July 2020 and December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Among the 17 patients, seven (41.2%) patients achieved HDPR (range: −50%, −72%) and 10 (58.8%) patients achieved NHDPR (range: −13%, −45%). Below normal CD4 + T lymphocytes/CD8 + T lymphocytes (CD4/CD8) ratio (p = 0.01) and oncogenes and/or tumor suppressor gene mutations (TP53/KRAS/EGFR) (p = 0.001) were found enriched for NHDPR compared with HDPR. With a median follow‐up of 26.0 months (range: 17.2–34.8 months), the median progression‐free survival (PFS) following first‐line immunotherapy and overall survival (OS) were 9.0 months (95% CI: 5.0–13.0) and not reached (NR), respectively. The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was identified as an independent prognostic factor on first‐line PFS. Patients with an NLR ≥4 exhibited a shorter median PFS (7.0 months vs. NR; p = 0.033; 95% CI: 1.2–80.2) than those with an NLR <4 following first‐line immunotherapy.

Conclusions

Among patients with PD‐L1 ≥50% metastatic NSCLC who received first‐line immunotherapy, a lower CD4/CD8 ratio and the presence of genes mutations showed a diminished tumor response and a higher NLR ratio exhibited a worse median PFS.
Ghost cells as a two‐phase blood analog fluid: high‐volume and high‐concentration production
Authors: Schürmann Benjamin J. , Creutz Pia , Schmitz‐Rode Thomas , Steinseifer Ulrich , Clauser Johanna C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Hemolysis in mechanical circulatory support systems is currently determined quantitatively. To also locally resolve hemolysis, we are developing a fluorescent hemolysis detection method. This requires a translucent two‐phase blood analog fluid combined with particle image velocimetry, an optical flow field measurement. The blood analog fluid is composed of red blood cell surrogates. However, producing surrogates in sufficient volume is a challenge. We therefore present a high‐volume and high‐concentration production for our surrogates: ghost cells, hemoglobin‐depleted erythrocytes.

Methods

In the ghost cell production, the hemoglobin is removed by a repeated controlled osmolar lysis. We have varied the solution mixture, centrifugation time, and centrifugation force in order to increase production efficiency. The production is characterized by measurements of output volume, hematocrit, transparency, and rheology of the blood analog fluid.

Results

The volume of produced ghost cells was significantly increased, and reproducibility was improved. An average production of 389 mL of ghost cells were achieved per day. Those ghost cells diluted in plasma have a rheology similar to blood while being permeable to light.

Conclusion

The volume of ghost cells produced is sufficient for optical measurements as particle image velocimetry in mechanical circulatory support systems. This makes further work on experimental measurements for a locally resolved hemolysis detection possible.
Mapping review of register‐based cohort studies of bipolar disorder
Authors: Tennant Matthew , Porter Richard , Beaglehole Ben
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Register‐based cohorts allow us to better understand bipolar disorder over a life course. They are inclusive and their long‐term data collection provides a longer scope than most clinical trials. This mapping review provides an overview of register‐based cohort studies of bipolar disorder to inform researchers of the strengths and limitations to this body of research and identify gaps for future research.

Methods

A systematic search was performed of Medline, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases. Cohort studies were included if they focused on bipolar disorder and had a minimum of 1 year of longitudinal data. Studies needed to be from databases that monitor the whole state or national population. A descriptive analysis of the studies' populations and methodology provides an overview of this field of study and identifies evidence gaps.

Results

A hundred and forty‐six studies were included. The majority were from databases in Taiwan (n = 63), Denmark (n = 38), Sweden (n = 23), and Finland (n = 11). Forty‐eight studies focused on aetiological questions. Sixty prognostic studies identified cohorts with bipolar disorder and described the impact of the illness by considering comorbidity, prescribing patterns, social functioning, and mortality. Thirty‐six treatment studies focused on the efficacy and adverse effects of pharmaceuticals and ECT. No studies focused on psychological treatments.

Conclusion

Bipolar disorder research should include register‐based cohorts with greater geopolitical and cultural diversity. Custodians of health registers should consider how non‐pharmaceutical interventions such as psychotherapy are captured. Register‐based cohorts investigating treatments of bipolar disorder should consider long‐term social outcomes alongside the usual clinical outcomes.
A preliminary study of factors associated with accommodation of obsessive‐compulsive symptoms by romantic partners
Authors: Toohey Brianna G. , Quinlan Elly , Reece John , Wootton Bethany M. , Paparo Josephine
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The accommodation of symptoms of obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) by loved ones is highly prevalent and impactful on treatment outcomes; however, little is known about factors that influence accommodation by romantic partners of OCD sufferers. The aim of this preliminary investigation was to explore such correlates.

Methods

A community sample of 50 patients self‐identifying with OCD (Mage = 29.3; SD = 9.3; 74% female) and 20 individuals self‐identifying as the partner of someone with OCD (Mage = 32.1; SD = 12.4; 65% female) participated in this study via an online questionnaire.

Results

Associations were found between partner accommodation of OCD and a range of obsessions and compulsions across the patient and partner samples, as well as patient‐reported symptom severity, functional impairment and negative emotion states. Neuroticism was also positively associated with partner accommodation in the patient sample but did not contribute to its prediction over and above other known correlates of family accommodation. In the partner sample, extraversion was found to be a unique negative correlate of partner accommodation.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the vital role both patient and partner factors play in the accommodation of OCD behaviours by romantic partners and the importance of involving loved ones in the treatment of individuals with OCD.
Identity enactment as a social accomplishment: Shared identity and the provision of mutual support amongst pilgrims undertaking the Hajj
Authors: Yalcin Enes , Hopkins Nick
Published: August 2024

Experimental and survey research shows that a common group membership can result in increased levels of social support. Here we complement such research with qualitative data concerning the forms and function of such support. Specifically, we explore the mutual support reported by pilgrims undertaking the Hajj. This requires participants enact a series of identity‐related beliefs and values (including specific rituals) in conditions that are practically and psychologically challenging. Using data obtained through semi‐structured interviews (N = 33), we investigate how participants' shared identity facilitated their behavioural enactment of these identity‐defining beliefs and values. We focus on how their shared understanding of their beliefs and values as Hajj pilgrims allowed various forms of support (psychological, material, informational, and behavioural) which helped participants translate their identity‐related ideals into behaviour. Our analysis implies that a shared identity provides a frame of reference with which group members can recognize each other's identity‐related concerns and what they need in order to enact their identity. In turn, it implies that in situations where there are practical and psychological constraints on behaviour, action in terms of one's social identity can be conceptualized as a joint accomplishment in which the mutual support of group members is key.
Phenotypic features, prevalence of KCNJ11‐MODY in Chinese patients with early‐onset diabetes and a literature review
Authors: Ba Tianhao , Ren Qian , Gong Siqian , Li Meng , Cai Xiaoling , Liu Wei , Luo Yingying , Zhang Simin , Zhang Rui , Zhou Lingli , Zhu Yu , Zhang Xiuying , Chen Jing , Wu Jing , Zhou Xianghai , Li Yufeng , Wang Xirui , Wang Fang , Zhong Liyong , Han Xueyao , Ji Linong
Published: August 2024

Objective

Gain‐of‐function (GOF) variants of KCNJ11 cause neonate diabetes and maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (KCNJ11‐MODY), while loss‐of‐function (LOF) variants lead to hyperinsulinemia hypoglycemia and subsequent diabetes. Given the limited research of KCNJ11‐MODY, we aimed to analyse its phenotypic features and prevalence in Chinese patients with early‐onset type 2 diabetes (EOD).

Design, Patients and Measurements

We performed next‐generation sequencing on 679 Chinese EOD patients to screen for KCNJ11 exons variants. Bioinformatics prediction and the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines was used to determine the pathogenicity and diagnosed KCNJ11‐MODY. A literature review was conducted to investigate the phenotypic features of KCNJ11‐MODY.

Results

We identified six predicted deleterious rare variants in six EOD patients (0.88%). They were classified as uncertain significance (variant of uncertain significance [VUS]), but more common in this EOD cohort than a general Chinese population database, however, without significant difference (53/10,588, 0.50%) (p = .268). Among 80 previously reported patients with KCNJ11‐MODY, 23.8% (19/80) carried 9 (32.1%) LOF variants, who had significantly older age at diagnosis, higher birthweight and higher fasting C‐peptide compared to patients with GOF variants. Many patients carrying VUS were not correctly diagnosed.

Conclusions

Some rare variants of KCNJ11 might contribute to the development of Chinese EOD, although available evidence has not enough power to support them as cause of KCNJ11‐MODY. The clinical features of LOF variants were different from GOF variants in KCNJ11‐MODY patients. It is necessary to evaluate the pathogenicity of VUS through function experiments.
Collaboration between otolaryngologists and oral surgeons in maxillary sinus elevation planning
Authors: Craig John R. , Saibene Alberto Maria , Felisati Elena Giulia , Felisati Giovanni
Published: August 2024

Background

The collaboration between otolaryngologists and dental providers is crucial for the planning and execution of maxillary sinus elevation (MSE) procedures, which are integral to successful dental implant placements.

Purpose

This article examines the essential role of otolaryngological assessments in identifying potential sinonasal risks that could impact the outcomes of MSE.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive narrative review of existing literature was conducted.

Discussion

The review underscores the importance of thorough preoperative evaluations, including patient history, computed tomography (CT) or cone‐beam CT (CBCT) scans, and nasal endoscopy, to mitigate sinonasal health risks. It details various clinical scenarios and patient assessments, emphasizing a systematic approach to diagnosing and managing sinonasal conditions proactively. The discussion reveals that while some sinus conditions may not significantly affect MSE success, conditions impacting mucociliary clearance and sinus drainage are critical risk factors requiring otolaryngological intervention. Additionally, the article introduces a grading system to assist clinicians in identifying patients who would benefit from otolaryngological evaluations prior to MSE.

Conclusion

This review highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and standardized protocols in enhancing the predictability and safety of MSE procedures, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
The heterogeneity of cellular metabolism in the tumour microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumour thrombus
Authors: Zhang Xiu‐Ping , Zou Wen‐Bo , Li Zhen‐Qi , Yu Ze‐Tao , Yu Shao‐Bo , Lin Zhao‐Yi , Wu Fei‐Fan , Liu Peng‐Jiong , Hu Ming‐Gen , Liu Rong , Gao Yu‐Zhen
Published: August 2024

Given the growing interest in the metabolic heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal vein tumour thrombus (PVTT). This study comprehensively analysed the metabolic heterogeneity of HCC, PVTT, and normal liver samples using multi‐omics combinations. A single‐cell RNA sequencing dataset encompassing six major cell types was obtained for integrated analysis. The optimal subtypes were identified using cluster stratification and validated using spatial transcriptomics and fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry. Then, a combined index based meta‐cluster was calculated to verify its prognostic significance using multi‐omics data from public cohorts. Our study first depicted the metabolic heterogeneity landscape of non‐malignant cells in HCC and PVTT at multiomics levels. The optimal subtypes interpret the metabolic characteristics of PVTT formation and development. The combined index provided effective predictions of prognosis and immunotherapy responses. Patients with a higher combined index had a relatively poor prognosis (p <0.001). We also found metabolism of polyamines was a key metabolic pathway involved in conversion of metabolic heterogeneity in HCC and PVTT, and identified ODC1 was significantly higher expressed in PVTT compared to normal tissue (p =0.03). Our findings revealed both consistency and heterogeneity in the metabolism of non‐malignant cells in HCC and PVTT. The risk stratification based on cancer‐associated fibroblasts and myeloid cells conduce to predict prognosis and guide treatment. This offers new directions for understanding disease development and immunotherapy responses.
Clinical Characteristics of Overweight Patients With Acute Exacerbation Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD)
Authors: Gong Yuxin , Du Fawang , Yao Yu , Wang Hanchao , Wang Xiaochuan , Xiong Wei , Wang Qin , He Gaoyan , Chen Linlin , Du Heng , Yang Juan , Bauer Brent A. , Wang Zhongruo , Deng Huojin , Zhu Tao
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Low body weight in patients with COPD is associated with a poor prognosis and more comorbidities. However, the impact of increased body weight in patients with COPD remains controversial. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical features of overweight patients with AECOPD.

Methods

In this multicenter cross‐sectional study, a total of 647 AECOPD patients were recruited. Finally, 269 normal weight and 162 overweight patients were included. Baseline characteristics and clinical and laboratory data were collected. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was performed to determine potential features, which were substituted into binary logistic regression to reveal overweight‐associated clinical features. The nomogram and its associated curves were established to visualize and verify the logistic regression model.

Results

Six potential overweight‐associated variables were selected by LASSO regression. Subsequently, a binary logistic regression model identified that the rates of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and hypertension and levels of lymphocytes (LYM)%, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were independent variables of overweight in AECOPD patients. The C‐index and AUC of the ROC curve of the nomogram were 0.671 and 0.666, respectively. The DCA curve revealed that the nomogram had more clinical benefits if the threshold was at a range of 0.22~0.78.

Conclusions

Collectively, we revealed that T2DM and hypertension were more common, and LYM% and ALT were higher in AECOPD patients with overweight than those with normal weight. The result suggests that AECOPD patients with overweight are at risk for additional comorbidities, potentially leading to worse outcomes.
Increased Frequency of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme D Allele in Asian Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Updated Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wu Xiaozheng , Li Wen , Luo Zhenliang , Chen Yunzhi
Published: August 2024

At present, the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) I/D polymorphism was considered to be associated to the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the association between it and the risk of COPD in different ethnic groups is still unclear. The purpose of this study is to conduct an updated meta‐analysis of the association between them; collect literatures published before 10 February 2023 by searching PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, CBM, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP Chinese scientific databases; and display the analysis results by drawing forest plots. At the same time, publication bias, sensitivity analysis, and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were performed to evaluate the stability and reliability of the results. In the overall population, the result of the DD versus II model showed the association with the risk of COPD ([OR] = 1.30, 95% CI [1.08, 1.56]), and there were no associations in other genetic models (p > 0.05). In Caucasians, the results of all genetic models showed no associations (p > 0.05). In Asians, the results of D versus I, DD versus II, and DD versus II + ID models showed the associations with the risk of COPD (D vs. I: [OR] = 1.48, 95% CI [1.14, 1.93]; DD vs. II: [OR] = 2.04, 95% CI [1.53, 2.72]; DD vs. II + ID: [OR] = 2.19, 95% CI [1.45, 3.29]), while the results of ID versus II and DD + ID versus II models showed no associations (p > 0.05). Therefore, the D allele and “DD” genotype variation of the ACE I/D gene polymorphism are associated with susceptibility to COPD in Asians but not in Caucasians.
A modular enzyme with combined hemicellulose‐removing and LPMO activity increases cellulose accessibility in softwood
Authors: Forsberg Zarah , Tuveng Tina R. , Eijsink Vincent G. H.
Published: August 2024

Because of the association with other complex polysaccharides, extracting and utilizing cellulose from lignocellulosic materials requires the combined action of a broad range of carbohydrate‐active enzymes, including multiple glycoside hydrolases (GHs) and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs). The interplay between these enzymes and the way in which Nature orchestrates their co‐existence and combined action are topics of great scientific and industrial interest. To gain more insight into these issues, we have studied the lignocellulose‐degrading abilities of an enzyme from Caldibacillus cellulovorans (CcLPMO10‐Man5), comprising an LPMO domain, a GH5 mannanase domain and two family 3 carbohydrate‐binding modules (CBM3). Using a natural softwood substrate, we show that this enzyme promotes cellulase activity, i.e., saccharification of cellulose, both by removing mannan covering the cellulose and by oxidatively breaking up the cellulose structure. Synergy with CcLPMO10‐Man5 was most pronounced for two tested cellobiohydrolases, whereas effects were smaller for a tested endoglucanase, which is in line with the notion that cellobiohydrolases and LPMOs attack the same crystalline regions of the cellulose, whereas endoglucanases attack semi‐crystalline and amorphous regions. Importantly, the LPMO domain of CcLPMO10‐Man5 is incapable of accessing the softwood cellulose in absence of the mannanase domain. Considering that LPMOs not bound to a substrate are sensitive to autocatalytic inactivation, this intramolecular synergy provides a perfect rationale for the evolution of modular enzymes such as CcLPMO10‐Man5. The intramolecular coupling of the LPMO with a mannanase and two CBMs ensures that the LPMO is directed to areas where mannans are removed and cellulose thus becomes available.
Plastic damage fracture characteristics and constitutive modeling of rocks under uniaxial compression considering crack geometry
Authors: Xu Hongtao , Qi Tingye , Feng Guorui , Qiu Tian , Wang Haochen , Wang Linfei , Zhang Zhicheng , Cheng Siyuan
Published: August 2024

The study of damage and failure in fractured rock masses is crucial. This study employs the representative volume element (RVE) method to develop a microscale rock model. The model simulates the propagation and rupture of fractures by integrating factors including actual mineralogical composition, the Weibull distribution function, the Mohr–Coulomb damage criterion, and strain softening. Results indicate that fractures reduce the uniaxial compressive strength of the rock and that peak strength is significantly correlated with crack geometries. Plastic damage in rocks was categorized into three stages: elastic, rapid growth, and postpeak softening. A logistic growth model describes the plastic volume change curves for rocks with various fracture geometries, establishing the relationship between plastic damage volume and damage variables. Constitutive models for rocks with varying fracture geometries under uniaxial compression were formulated. The accuracy and applicability of these models were validated, providing a theoretical basis for rock engineering applications.