bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the Performance of ChatGPT and GPT-4 versus a Cohort of Medical Students on an Official University of Toronto Undergraduate Medical Education Progress Test
Authors: Meaney Christopher , Huang Ryan S. , Lu Kevin (Jia Qi) , Fischer Adam W. , Leung Fok-Han , Kulasegaram Kulamakan , Tzanetos Katina , Punnett Angela
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background

Large language model (LLM) based chatbots have recently received broad social uptake; demonstrating remarkable abilities in natural language understanding, natural language generation, dialogue, and logic/reasoning.

Objective

To compare the performance of two LLM-based chatbots, versus a cohort of medical students, on a University of Toronto undergraduate medical progress test.

Methods

We report the mean number of correct responses, stratified by year of training/education, for each cohort of undergraduate medical students. We report counts/percentages of correctly answered test questions for each of ChatGPT and GPT-4. We compare the performance of ChatGPT versus GPT-4 using McNemar’s test for dependent proportions. We compare whether the percentage of correctly answered test questions for ChatGPT or GPT-4 fall within/outside the confidence intervals for the mean number of correct responses for each of the cohorts of undergraduate medical education students.

Results

A total of N=1057 University of Toronto undergraduate medical students completed the progress test during the Fall-2022 and Winter-2023 semesters. Student performance improved with increased training/education levels: UME-Year1 mean=36.3%; UME-Year2 mean=44.1%; UME-Year3 mean=52.2%; UME-Year4 mean=58.5%. ChatGPT answered 68/100 (68.0%) questions correctly; whereas, GPT-4 answered 79/100 (79.0%) questions correctly. GPT-4 performance was statistically significantly greater than ChatGPT (P=0.034). GPT-4 performed at a level equivalent to the top performing undergraduate medical student (79/100 questions correctly answered).

Conclusions

This study adds to a growing body of literature demonstrating the remarkable performance of LLM-based chatbots on medical tests. GPT-4 performed at a level comparable to the best performing undergraduate medical student who attempted the progress test in 2022/2023. Future work will investigate the potential application of LLM-chatbots as tools for assisting learners/educators in medical education.
Pre-stroke physical activity matters for functional limitations: A longitudinal case-control study of 12,860 participants
Authors: van Allen Zack , Orsholits Dan , Boisgontier Matthieu P.
Published: September 2023

Objective

In the chronic phase after a stroke, limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental ADL (IADLs) initially plateau before steadily increasing. The benefits of pre-stroke physical activity on these limitations remain unclear. To clarify this relationship, we examined the effect of physical activity on the long-term evolution of functional limitations in a cohort of stroke survivors and compared it to a cohort of matched stroke-free adults.

Methods

Longitudinal data from 2,143 stroke survivors and 10,717 stroke-free adults aged 50 years and older were drawn from a prospective cohort study based on the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (2004-2022; 8 data collection waves). Physical activity was assessed in the pre-stroke wave. Functional limitations were assessed in the post-stroke waves. Each stroke survivor was matched with 5 stroke-free adults who had similar propensity scores computed on the basis of key covariates, including baseline age, sex, body mass index, limitations in ADL and IADL, chronic conditions and country of residence, before any of the participants from either cohort had experienced a stroke.

Results

Results showed an interaction between stroke status and physical activity on ADL limitations (b = -0.076; 95% CI = -0.142 to -0.011), with the effect of physical activity being stronger in stroke survivors (b = -0.345, 95% CI = -0.438 to -0.252) than in stroke-free adults (b = -0.269, 95% CI = -0.269 to -0.241).

Conclusion

The beneficial effect of pre-stroke physical activity on ADL limitations after stroke is stronger than its effect in matched stroke-free adults followed for a similar number of years.

Impact

Physical activity, an intervention within the physical therapist’s scope of practice, is effective in reducing the risk of functional dependence after stroke. Moreover, pre-stroke levels of physical activity can inform the prognosis of functional dependence in stroke survivors.
circHIPK3 nucleates IGF2BP2 and functions as a competing endogenous RNA
Authors: Okholm Trine Line Hauge , Kamstrup Andreas Bjerregaard , Nielsen Morten Muhlig , Hollensen Anne Kruse , Graversgaard Mette Laugesen , Sørensen Matilde Helbo , Kristensen Lasse Sommer , Vang Søren , Park Samuel S. , Yeo Gene W. , Dyrskjøt Lars , Kjems Jørgen , Pedersen Jakob Skou , Damgaard Christian Kroun
Published: September 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent a class of widespread endogenous RNAs that regulate gene expression and thereby influence cell biological decisions with implications for the pathogenesis of several diseases. Here, we disclose a novel gene-regulatory role of circHIPK3 by combining analyses of large genomics datasets and mechanistic cell biological follow-up experiments. Specifically, we use temporal depletion of circHIPK3 or specific RNA binding proteins (RBPs) and identify several perturbed genes by RNA sequencing analyses. Using expression-coupled motif analyses of mRNA expression data from various knockdown experiments, we identify an 11-mer motif within circHIPK3, which is also enriched in genes that become downregulated upon circHIPK3 depletion. By mining eCLIP datasets, we find that the 11-mer motif constitutes a strong binding site for IGF2BP2 and validate this circHIPK3-IGF2BP2 interaction experimentally using RNA-immunoprecipitation and competition assays in bladder cancer cell lines. Our results suggest that circHIPK3 and IGF2BP2 mRNA targets compete for binding. Since the identified 11-mer motif found in circHIPK3 is enriched in upregulated genes following IGF2BP2 knockdown, and since IGF2BP2 depletion conversely globally antagonizes the effect of circHIPK3 knockdown on target genes, our results suggest that circHIPK3 can sequester IGF2BP2 as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), leading to target mRNA stabilization. As an example of a circHIPK3-regulated gene, we focus on theSTAT3mRNA as a specific substrate of IGF2BP2 and validate that manipulation of circHIPK3 regulates IGF2BP2-STAT3mRNA binding and therebySTAT3mRNA levels. However, absolute copy number quantifications demonstrate that IGF2BP2 outnumbers circHIPK3 by orders of magnitude, which is inconsistent with a simple 1:1 ceRNA hypothesis. Instead, we show that circHIPK3 can nucleate multiple copies of IGF2BP2, potentially via phase separation, to produce IGF2BP2 condensates. Finally, we show that circHIPK3 expression correlates with overall survival of patients with bladder cancer. Our results are consistent with a model where relatively few cellular circHIPK3 molecules function as inducers of IGF2BP2 condensation thereby regulating STAT3 and other key factors for cell proliferation and potentially cancer progression.
Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Morphology Negatively Affected by Loss of Xin
Authors: Martin Grace , Al-Sajee Dhuha , Gingrich Molly , Chattha Rimsha , Akcan Michael , Monaco Cynthia M.F. , Hughes Megan C. , Perry Christopher G.R. , Rebalka Irena A. , Tarnopolsky Mark A. , Hawke Thomas J.
Published: September 2023

Altered mitochondrial structure and function are implicated in the functional decline of skeletal muscle. Numerous cytoskeletal proteins have been reported to affect mitochondrial homeostasis, but this complex network is still being unraveled. Here, we investigated alterations to mitochondrial structure and function in mice lacking the cytoskeletal adapter protein, Xin.

Xin deficient (Xin-/-) and wild-type (WT) littermate mice were fed a chow or high-fat diet (HFD; 60% kcal fat) for 8 weeks before high-resolution respirometry, histology, electron microscopy and Western blot analyses of their skeletal muscles were conducted.

Immuno-electron microscopy and immunofluorescence staining indicates that Xin is present in the mitochondria and peri-mitochondrial areas, as well as the myoplasm. Intermyofibrillar mitochondria in chow-fed Xin-/- mice were notably different from WT; frequently spanning a whole sarcomere and/or swollen in appearance with abnormal cristae. Succinate Dehydrogenase and Cytochrome Oxidase IV (COX) activity staining indicated greater evidence of mitochondrial enzyme activity in Xin-/- mice. HFD did not result in a difference between cohorts with respect to body mass gains or glucose handling. However, electron microscopy revealed significantly greater mitochondrial density (∼2.1-fold) with evident structural abnormalities (swelling, reduced cristae density) in Xin-/- mice. Complex I and II-supported respiration were not different between groups per mg muscle, but when made relative to mitochondrial density, were significantly lower in Xin-/- muscles. Western blotting of fusion, fission, and autophagy proteins revealed no differences between groups.

These results provide the first evidence for a role of Xin in maintaining mitochondrial morphology and function but not in regulating mitochondrial dynamics.
Prediction of Bovine coronavirus immune epitopes using selection and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Russell Tristan , Lozano Jose Maria , Challinor Cailyn , Barry Gerald
Published: September 2023

Bovine betacoronavirus(BoCoV) is a pneumoenteric pathogen of cattle, which is closely related to Human coronavirus OC43. Vaccines are administered to protect against diseases caused by BoCoV, but knowledge gaps exist with regard to correlates of protection and the effect of immune evasion on driving evolution. In this study, immune epitopes were predicted for the BoCoV structural proteins including spike and haemagglutinin esterase (HE) and these predictions were supported through targeted gene sequencing of Irish clinical isolates and selective pressure analysis. Increased prevalence of diversifying selection and amino acid changes in some predicted immune epitopes suggests immune escape is selecting for non-synonymous mutations arising in these regions. Selection analysis and sequencing provided increased support for nAb epitopes compared to other predicted immune epitopes suggesting nAbs are an important arm of the immune response to BoCoV. Phylogenetic analysis of spike and HE sequences showed Irish isolates from this study were in the European clade except for one HE sequence that sat in the Asian/American clade, while the spike gene of this sample was in the European clade. Recombination between a European and an Asian/American isolate could give rise to such a sequence and recombination breakpoints that were detected at the 3’ end of HE and 5’ end of spike would produce such a sequence. This study presents evidence showing pressure to evade the nAb response is contributing to BoCoV evolution and for the first time, sequenced an isolate likely derived from a recombination event between European and Asian/American strains.
LinkingGba1E326K mutation to microglia activation and mild age-dependent dopaminergic Neurodegeneration
Authors: Kweon Sin Ho , Ryu Hye Guk , Park Hyeonwoo , Lee Saebom , Kim Namshik , Kwon Seung-Hwan , Ma Shi-Xun , Kim Sangjune , Ko Han Seok
Published: September 2023

Mutations in theGBA1gene have been identified as a prevalent genetic risk factor for Parkinson’s disease (PD).GBA1mutations impair enzymatic activity, leading to lysosomal dysfunction and elevated levels of α-synuclein (α-syn). While most research has primarily focused on GBA1’s role in promoting synucleinopathy, emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation may be a key pathogenic alteration caused by GBA1 deficiency. To examine the molecular mechanism underlying GBA1 deficiency-mediated neuroinflammation, we generatedGba1E326K knock-in (KI) mice using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, which is linked to an increased risk of PD and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). In the ventral midbrain and hippocampus of 24-month-oldGba1E326K KI mice, we found a moderate decline in GBA1 enzymatic activity, a buildup of glucosylceramide, and an increase in microglia density. Furthermore, we observed increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and formation of reactive astrocytes in primary microglia and astrocytes, respectively, cultured fromGba1E326K KI mice following treatment with pathologic α-syn preformed fibrils (PFF). Additionally, the gut inoculation of α-syn PFF inGba1E326K KI mice significantly enhanced the accumulation of Lewy bodies in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, accompanied by aggravated neuroinflammation and exacerbated non-motor symptoms. This research significantly enhances our understanding of theGba1E326K mutation’s involvement in neuroinflammation and the cell-to-cell transmission of pathogenic α-syn in the brain, thereby opening new therapeutic avenues.
Involvement of remote regions in sustained, but not transient, epileptic activities in the kainate mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Padmasola Guru Prasad , Friscourt Fabien , Schaller Karl , Michel Christoph M , Sheybani Laurent , Quairiaux Charles
Published: September 2023

Animal and human studies have shown that the seizure-generating region is vastly dependent on distant neuronal hubs that can decrease duration and propagation of ongoing seizures. However, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of the impact of distant brain areas on specific interictal or ictal epileptic activities (e.g., isolated spikes, spike trains, seizures). Such knowledge is critically needed since all kinds of epileptic activities are not equivalent in terms of clinical expression and impact on the progression of the disease. We used surface, high-density EEG and multisite intracortical recordings, combined with pharmacological silencing of specific brain regions in the well-known kainate mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. We tested the impact of selective regional silencing on the generation of epileptic activities within a continuum ranging from very transient to more sustained and long-lasting discharges reminiscent of seizures. Silencing the contralateral hippocampus completely suppresses sustained ictal activities in the focus, as efficiently as silencing the focus itself, but while focus silencing abolishes all focal activities, contralateral silencing fails to control transient spikes. In parallel, we observed that sustained epileptic discharges in the focus are preceded by contralateral firing and more strongly phase locked to bi-hippocampal delta/theta oscillations than transient spiking activities, reinforcing the presumed dominant role of the contralateral hippocampus in promoting long-lasting, but not transient, epileptic activities. Altogether, our work provides suggestive evidence that the contralateral hippocampus is necessary for the interictal-to ictal-state transition and proposes that cross-talk between contralateral neuronal activity and ipsilateral delta/theta oscillation could be a candidate mechanism underlying the progression from short to long-lasting epileptic activities.

Key Points

We study how regions remote from the focus influence epileptic activities in the kainate mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy.

The contralateral hippocampus plays a decisive role in the initiation of sustained epileptic activities

Integration of contralateral activities and bi-hippocampal delta/theta oscillations precedes focal paroxysmal activities

We propose that a large-scale epileptic network might be necessary for the transition from interictal to ictal states
A collection of diverse bacteriophages for biocontrol of ESBL- and AmpC-β-lactamase-producingE. coli
Authors: Vitt Amira R. , Sørensen Anders Nørgaard , Bojer Martin S. , Bortolaia Valeria , Sørensen Martine C. Holst , Brøndsted Lone
Published: September 2023

Novel solutions are needed to reduce the risk of transmission of extended spectrum β-lactamase and AmpC β-lactamase producingEscherichia coli(ESBL/AmpCE. coli) in livestock to humans. Since phages are promising biocontrol agents, we established a collection of 28 phages against ESBL/AmpCE. coliand showed by whole genome sequencing that all phages were unique and could be assigned to 15 different genera. Host range analysis showed that 82% of 198 strains, representing the genetic diversity of ESBL/AmpCE. coli, were sensitive to at least one phage. Identifying receptors used for initial binding experimentally as well asin silicopredictions, allowed us to combine phages into two different cocktails with broad host range targeting diverse receptors. These phage cocktails inhibit growth and kill ESBL/AmpCE. coli in vitro, thus suggesting the potential of phages as promising biocontrol agents.

HIGHLIGHTS

28 unique phages infecting ESBL/AmpCE. coliwere isolated and characterized

Broad host range phages targeting different receptors were used to compose phage cocktails

Phage cocktails efficiently inhibit growth of ESBL/AmpCE. coli in vitro
Timing and location of speech errors induced by direct cortical stimulation
Authors: Kabakoff Heather , Yu Leyao , Friedman Daniel , Dugan Patricia , Doyle Werner K , Devinsky Orrin , Flinker Adeen
Published: September 2023

Cortical regions supporting speech production are commonly established using neuroimaging techniques in both research and clinical settings. However, for neurosurgical purposes, structural function is routinely mapped peri-operatively using direct electrocortical stimulation. While this method is the gold standard for identification of eloquent cortical regions to preserve in neurosurgical patients, there is lack of specificity of the actual underlying cognitive processes being interrupted. To address this, we propose mapping the temporal dynamics of speech arrest across peri-sylvian cortices by quantifying the latency between stimulation and speech deficits. In doing so, we are able to substantiate hypotheses about distinct region-specific functional roles (e.g., planning versus motor execution). In this retrospective observational study, we analyzed 20 patients (12 female; age range 14-43) with refractory epilepsy who underwent continuous extra-operative intracranial EEG monitoring of an automatic speech task during clinical bedside language mapping. Latency to speech arrest was calculated as time from stimulation onset to speech arrest onset, controlling for individual speech rate.

Most instances of motor-based arrest (87.5% of 96 instances) were in sensorimotor cortex with mid-range latencies to speech arrest with a distributional peak at 0.47 seconds. Speech arrest occurred in numerous regions, with relatively short latencies in supramarginal gyrus (0.46 seconds), superior temporal gyrus (0.51 seconds), and middle temporal gyrus (0.54 seconds), followed by relatively long latencies in sensorimotor cortex (0.72 seconds) and especially long latencies in inferior frontal gyrus (0.95 seconds). Nonparametric testing for speech arrest revealed that region predicted latency; latencies in supramarginal gyrus and in superior temporal gyrus were shorter than in sensorimotor cortex and in inferior frontal gyrus. Sensorimotor cortex is primarily responsible for motor-based arrest. Latencies to speech arrest in supramarginal gyrus and superior temporal gyrus (and to a lesser extent middle temporal gyrus) align with latencies to motor-based arrest in sensorimotor cortex. This pattern of relatively quick cessation of speech suggests that stimulating these regions interferes with the outgoing motor execution. In contrast, the latencies to speech arrest in inferior frontal gyrus and in ventral regions of sensorimotor cortex were significantly longer than those in temporoparietal regions. Longer latencies in the more frontal areas (including inferior frontal gyrus and ventral areas of precentral gyrus and postcentral gyrus) suggest that stimulating these areas interrupts a higher-level speech production process involved in planning. These results implicate the ventral specialization of sensorimotor cortex (including both precentral and postcentral gyri) for speech planning above and beyond motor execution.
Genome analysis and hyphal movement characterization of the hitchhiker endohyphalEnterobactersp. fromRhizoctonia solani
Authors: Zhang Peiqi , Huguet-Tapia Jose , Peng Zhao , Obasa Ken , Block Anna K. , White Frank F
Published: September 2023

Bacterial-fungal interactions are pervasive in the rhizosphere. While an increasing number of endohyphal bacteria (EHB) have been identified, little is known about their ecology and impact on the associated fungal hosts and the surrounding environment. In this study, we characterized the genome of anEnterobactersp. (En-Cren) isolated from the generalist fungal pathogenRhizoctonia solani. Overall, the En-Cren genome size was typical for members of the genus and was capable of free-living growth. The genome was 4.6 MB in size, and no plasmids were detected. Several prophage regions and genomic islands were identified that harbor unique genes in comparison with phylogenetically closely relatedEnterobacterspp. Type VI secretion system and cyanate assimilation genes were identified from the bacterium, while common heavy metal resistance genes were absent. En-Cren contains the key genes for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and phenylacetic acid (PAA) biosynthesis, and produces IAA and PAAin vitro, which may impact the ecology or pathogenicity of the fungal pathogenin vivo. En-Cren was observed to move along hyphae ofR. solaniand on other basidiomycetes and ascomycetes in culture. The bacterial flagellum is essential for hyphal movement, while other pathways and genes may also be involved.

Importance

The genome characterization and comparative genomics analysis of En-Cren provided the foundation and resources for a better understanding of the ecology and evolution of this EHB in the rhizosphere. The ability to produce IAA and PAA may provide new angles to study the impact of phytohormones during the plant-pathogen interactions. The hitchhiking behavior of the bacterium on a diverse group of fungi, while inhibiting the growth of some others, revealed new areas of bacterial-fungal signaling and interaction yet to be explored.
A novel approach to increase glial cell populations in brain microphysiological systems
Authors: Pantoja Itzy E. Morales , Ding Lixuan , Leite Paulo E. C. , Marques Suelen A. , Romero July Carolina , Din Dowlette-Mary Alam El , Zack Donald J. , Chamling Xitiz , Smirnova Lena
Published: September 2023

Brain microphysiological systems (bMPS), which recapitulate human brain cellular architecture and functionality more closely than traditional monolayer cultures, have become a practical, non-invasive, and increasingly relevant platform for the study of neurological function in health and disease. These models include 3D spheroids and organoids as well as organ-on-chip models. Currently, however, existing 3D brain models vary in reflecting the relative populations of the different cell types present in the human brain. Most of the models consist mainly of neurons, while glial cells represent a smaller portion of the cell populations. Here, by means of a chemically defined glial-enriched medium (GEM), we present an improved method to expand the population of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes without compromising neuronal differentiation in bMPS. An important finding is that astrocytes not only increased in number but also changed in morphology when cultured in GEM, more closely recapitulating primary culture astrocytes. We demonstrate oligodendrocyte and astrocyte enrichment in GEM bMPS using a variety of complementary methods. We found that GEM bMPS are electro-chemically active and showed different patterns of Ca+2staining and flux. Synaptic vesicles and terminals observed by electron microscopy were also present. No significant changes in neuronal differentiation were observed by gene expression, however, GEM enhanced neurite outgrowth and cell migration, and differentially modulated neuronal maturation in two different iPSC lines. Our results have the potential to significantly improve in vivo-like functionality of bMPS for the study of neurological diseases and drug discovery, contributing to the unmet need for safe human models.
Impact of Smoking Cessation on Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nabi Husain Mahato Gulam Husain , Brijeshkumar Upadhyay Ronak , Agarwal Abhimanyu , Manishbhai Patel Dhwani , Ghotra Monica , Panjiyar Binay K
Published: September 2023

Smoking cessation decreases the chances of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and improves medical outcomes in public health. Cessation of smoking is associated with many important health and quality of life benefits. The use of withdrawal medications is recommended to increase the probability of cessation. However, there is a longstanding and growing concern that smoking cessation treatments may increase the risk of cardiovascular events during the cessation period. The purpose of this study is to specifically assess the importance of smoking cessation and the use of smoking cessation treatments for their effects on cardiovascular outcomes, including lipid profiles, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, carotid atherosclerosis, intimal thickness, and body mass index. weight changes. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major public health problem, and smoking cessation has been shown to be an effective strategy for reducing CVD risk and improving overall health outcomes. Smoking cessation medications and therapies are recommended to increase your chances of successful cessation of smoking. However, concerns have been raised about a potential transient increase in cardiovascular events associated with smoking cessation treatment during the cessation period. The aim of this systematic review is to find out the effects of smoking cessation and smoking cessation treatment on various cardiovascular outcomes. This systematic review provides valuable information about smoking, the application of smoking cessation therapies, and their effects on cardiovascular disease.
The interplay between splicing of exons 18a and 47 differentially affects membrane targeting and function of human CaV2.2
Authors: Dahimene Shehrazade , Page Karen M , Nieto-Rostro Manuela , Pratt Wendy S , Dolphin Annette C
Published: September 2023

N-type calcium channels (CaV2.2) are predominantly localized in presynaptic terminals, and are particularly important for pain transmission in the spinal cord. Furthermore, they have multiple isoforms, conferred by alternatively-spliced or cassette exons, which are differentially expressed. Here we have examined alternatively-spliced exon47 variants that encode a long or short C-terminus in human CaV2.2. In theEnsembldatabase, all short exon47-containing transcripts were associated with the absence of exon 18a, therefore we also examined effect of inclusion or absence of exon18a, combinatorially with the exon47 splice variants. We found that long exon47, only in the additional presence of exon18a, results in CaV2.2 currents that have a 3.6-fold greater maximum conductance than the other three combinations. In contrast, cell surface expression of CaV2.2 in both tsA-201 cells and hippocampal neurons is increased ∼4-fold by long exon47 relative to short exon47, in either the presence or absence of exon18a. This surprising discrepancy between trafficking and function indicates that cell surface expression is enhanced by long exon47, independently of exon 18a. However, in the presence of exon47, exon18a mediates an additional permissive effect on CaV2.2 gating. We also investigated the SNP in exon47 that has been linked to schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease, which we found is only non-synonymous in the short exon47 C-terminal isoform, resulting in two minor alleles. This study highlights the importance of investigating the combinatorial effects of exon inclusion, rather than each in isolation, in order to increase our understanding of calcium channel function.

Graphical abstract
MINSTED tracking of single biomolecules
Authors: Scheiderer Lukas , von der Emde Henrik , Hesselink Mira , Weber Michael , Hell Stefan W.
Published: September 2023

We show that MINSTED localization, a method whereby the position of a fluorophore is identified with precisely controlled beams of a STED microscope, tracks fluorophores and hence labeled biomolecules with nanometer/millisecond spatio-temporal precision. By updating the position for each detected photon, MINSTED recognizes fluorophore steps of 16 nm within < 250 microseconds using about 13 photons. The power of MINSTED tracking is demonstrated by quantifying side-steps of the motor protein kinesin-1 walking on microtubules and switching protofilaments.
Impact of social media influencers on consumers' well-being and purchase intention: a TikTok perspective
Authors: Jamil Raja Ahmed , Qayyum Urba , ul Hassan Syed Ramiz , Khan Tariq Iqbal
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Extending the elaboration likelihood model (ELM), this study investigates the impact of social media influencers (SMI) on consumer well-being (CW) as well as the influence of CW on purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A between-subjects experiment (macro- vs mega-influencer) was conducted to assess the proposed hypotheses. A total of 190 consumers participated in the experiment, and SmartPLS 3.3 was used for multigroup analyses.

Findings

Overall, argument quality (AQ), source's credibility (SC) and influencer's kindness positively predict CW, and CW predicts purchase intention. It was also found that SC is more important when information comes from a mega-influencer, whilst kindness is essential for a macro-influencer.

Practical implications

The results of this study imply that CW should be an essential component of influencer marketing strategy. Marketing managers should hire credible and kind influencers who can produce quality arguments. Additionally, the selection of SMI (macro- vs mega-influencer) should be aligned with the marketing objective and type of persuasion required.

Originality/value

This is one of the early attempts to extend ELM by introducing influencer kindness as a peripheral cue. Moreover, the study offers novelty by examining the effects of influencer characteristics (AQ, SC and kindness) on CW and comparing these effects across macro- and mega-influencers.
Ethnic diversity in perceptions of discrimination among ten Asian American groups
Authors: Zainiddinov Hakim
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The study examines the prevalence and correlates of perceived discrimination across ten Asian American ethnic groups. The goal is to disaggregate an artificially created broad categorization of Asians into subgroups to reveal the existing intragroup differences.

Design/methodology/approach

Bivariate and multivariate analyses were based on data from the 2016 National Asian American Survey (NAAS). The exclusion of missing data on all variables used in the analysis revealed a final analytical sample size of 4,276.

Findings

Compared to all other Asian American ethnic groups, Cambodians report the lowest frequency of perceived discrimination on all outcome measures. On the contrary, the prevalence of perceived discrimination is highest for Bangladeshis and Indians on lifetime and job-related discrimination and for Indians and Japanese on day-to-day discrimination. Nearly all Asian American ethnic groups are more likely to report one or more types of perceived discrimination than Chinese Americans. The observed relationships disappear for Cambodians, Pakistanis and Japanese but persist for Bangladeshis, Filipinos, Hmong and Indians after controlling for socio-demographic characteristics. Among the socio-demographic controls, gender, birthplace, education and employment status are found to be significant predictors of perceived discrimination.

Originality/value

The findings of the study further the discussion on the importance of disaggregating minority groups and considering their heterogeneous experiences of perceptions of discrimination in the United States.
Unlocking SME success: optimizing capability development amidst dynamic market conditions in emerging economies
Authors: Anning-Dorson Thomas
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The business landscapes in Asia and Africa are predominantly characterized by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) facing significant resource constraints. Understanding the capability dynamics of these enterprises in such contexts carries significant implications for theory and practice. This paper aims to addresses a crucial question of whether increasing customer involvement capability consistently yields the necessary rent for enterprises operating under resource constraints in emerging markets in Asia and Africa. By investigating this question, the paper offers SMEs a more nuanced approach to capability development, enabling them to achieve better returns on their investments.

Design/methodology/approach

To ensure the robustness of the findings, data were collected from SME service firms operating in two emerging economies: India (Asia) and Ghana (Africa). Data were collected in two waves to allow for catering to specific environmental conditions not accounted for in the study. Two-stage data analysis was then conducted to test the hypothesized relationships across the two countries.

Findings

The findings reveal that customer involvement capability does not always lead to an increase in firm-level competitiveness, and the effect follows an inverted U-shaped pattern. However, the nature of this relationship varies under different market conditions in both contexts. Specifically, in periods of low customer demand and intense competition, the relationship is linear and positive. On the other hand, in periods of high demand and competition, the relationship becomes inverted U-shaped, returning to a direct relationship with firm-level competitiveness.

Originality/value

This paper provides a resolution to the critical issue of whether customer involvement capability consistently delivers firm performance benefits, particularly for resource-constrained SMEs in emerging markets. By explaining how SMEs in emerging markets can fully capitalize on their capability development to optimize their resources, this paper makes a distinctive contribution. Moreover, it sheds light on the importance of aligning involvement capabilities with prevailing market conditions for SMEs to reap the maximum benefits.
A research method for locating community healthcare facilities in Italy: how to guarantee healthcare for all
Authors: Gola Marco , Fior Marika , Arruzzoli Stefano , Galuzzi Paolo , Capolongo Stefano , Buffoli Maddalena
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The new Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) has prioritised a new healthcare model that will establish the additional community healthcare facilities (CHFs). The paper proposes a methodology for supporting decision-making on location of the future facilities according to new parameters that consider how proximity to healthcare benefits communities. Rethinking the spatial parameters for locating future CHFs, focusing on fragile areas, creates a novel decision support system.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on multifactor analysis and on geographic information system (GIS) mapping to simulate the potential and risks associated with the proposed location of CHFs, focusing on territorial contexts of metropolitan cities, medium-sized cities, and Inner Areas, characterized by different fragilities. This method aims to innovate urban planning practices by updating the practice of per-capita urban planning standards and promoting implementation of the 15-minute city model.

Findings

The method defines new spatial parameters useful to inform the appropriate location of CHFs in Italy's Inner Areas. This offers a new integrated approach to spatial design mixing urban planning and healthcare dimensions.

Originality/value

The methodology will bring about an integrated urban planning approach, which guides both transformative urban choices and health services' implementation according to the needs of communities.
An international study of early-stage entrepreneurship using global entrepreneurship monitor data
Authors: Ndofirepi Takawira Munyaradzi , Steyn Renier
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The goal of this study is to identify and validate some selected determinants of early-stage entrepreneurial activity (ESEA) by assessing the impact of entrepreneurial knowledge and skills (EK&S), fear of failure (FoF), the social status of entrepreneurs (SSE) and entrepreneurial intentions (EI) on ESEA.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilised cross-sectional data gathered by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) team from 49 countries, with a total of 162,077 respondents. The data analyses involved correlation, simple regression and path analyses, with a specific focus on testing for mediated and moderated effects. To complement the statistical analyses, fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis was also employed.

Findings

The path analysis revealed EK&S as primary drivers of EI and ESEA. Also, EK&S moderated the effects of FoF on EI, and the inclusion of EI improved the model significantly. The fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis result showed that the presence of EI, EK&S, FoF and SSE were sufficient but not necessary conditions for ESEA.

Practical implications

The tested model demonstrates the importance of EK&S and EI, as well as the need to mitigate the effects of the fear factor in promoting entrepreneurial activity. As such, the support of EK&S programmes seems justifiable.

Originality/value

The findings of this study provide a deeper insight into the intricate relationships that underlie entrepreneurial activity by utilising a combination of data analysis techniques.
Optimization of the extraction of phenolic compounds from the leaves of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) through high hydrostatic pressure system using mixture design with process variables
Authors: da Silva Natallya Marques , Bona Evandro , Cardozo‐Filho Lucio , Oliveira Santos Oscar , Heck Stênio Cristaldo , Beneti Stéphani Caroline , Feihrmann Andresa Carla
Published: September 2023

In this study, a mixture design with process variables was used to optimize the extraction of total phenolic compounds (TPC) from yerba mate leaves through high hydrostatic pressure extraction. The studied variables were pressure (50, 100, and 150 MPa), extraction time (10, 20, and 30 min), and solvent (water, glycerin, and 50% v/v water/50% v/v glycerin). The multiple linear regression model presented an excellent fit (R2 adjusted of 0.9792) and demonstrated the major influence of glycerin content on the water/glycerin mixture solvent for TPC extraction. Optimal process conditions obtained were 69% v/v water, 31% v/v glycerin, 50 MPa pressure, and 10 min time.

Practical Application

The paper describes a novel extraction method to obtain phenolic compounds from yerba mate (compounds that can replace synthesized antioxidants in the food industry) using high hydrostatic pressure and environmentally friendly solvents. The extraction process was studied to optimize its performance, obtaining more phenolic compounds from the same amount of yerba mate.
Allelic bias when performing in‐solution enrichment of ancient human DNA
Authors: Davidson Roberta , Williams Matthew P. , Roca‐Rada Xavier , Kassadjikova Kalina , Tobler Raymond , Fehren‐Schmitz Lars , Llamas Bastien
Published: September 2023

In‐solution hybridisation enrichment of genetic variation is a valuable methodology in human paleogenomics. It allows enrichment of endogenous DNA by targeting genetic markers that are comparable between sequencing libraries. Many studies have used the 1240k reagent—which enriches 1,237,207 genome‐wide SNPs—since 2015, though access was restricted. In 2021, Twist Biosciences and Daicel Arbor Biosciences independently released commercial kits that enabled all researchers to perform enrichments for the same 1240 k SNPs. We used the Daicel Arbor Biosciences Prime Plus kit to enrich 132 ancient samples from three continents. We identified a systematic assay bias that increases genetic similarity between enriched samples and that cannot be explained by batch effects. We present the impact of the bias on population genetics inferences (e.g. Principal Components Analysis, ƒ‐statistics) and genetic relatedness (READ). We compare the Prime Plus bias to that previously reported of the legacy 1240k enrichment assay. In ƒ‐statistics, we find that all Prime‐Plus‐generated data exhibit artefactual excess shared drift, such that within‐continent relationships cannot be correctly determined. The bias is more subtle in READ, though interpretation of the results can still be misleading in specific contexts. We expect the bias may affect analyses we have not yet tested. Our observations support previously reported concerns for the integration of different data types in paleogenomics. We also caution that technological solutions to generate 1240k data necessitate a thorough validation process before their adoption in the paleogenomic community.
Housing as asset and payment: Construction, speculation, and financialization at the European periphery
Authors: Musaraj Smoki
Published: September 2023

Construction booms have dominated Albania's economy and politics since the late 1990s. These booms continued even during times of illiquidity. One of the sources of financing construction in Albania is the practice ofklering(in‐kind payments). In this practice, developers pay subcontractors in (future) apartments in exchange for materials and labor. I argue that, in klering transactions, housing serves as an asset and a means of payment. The practice of klering emerged at the interface of postcommunist transformations, neoliberal reforms, and the fetishization of housing as an asset of more durable and multifaceted economic and cultural value. While grounded in the local histories and values of housing, klering is made possible by a fuzzy property regime, systemic corruption, and widespread informality. At the same time, klering echoes other global patterns pertaining to housing, such as the rise of asset economy, financialization, and money laundering through real estate purchases. The klering economy echoes speculative logics and practices that are prevalent across and that link centers and peripheries, formal and informal markets. These economic logics generate uncertainty and ambiguity; they mobilize social networks and cultural imaginaries; and they thrive on and further reproduce deep social and economic inequalities.
A ritual of indistinction
Authors: Saha Roy Sayantan
Published: September 2023

The state of exception is classically understood as a situation devoid of laws and marked by the sovereign's absolute powers. This picture is unsettled by offering a more tenuous account of the state of siege, showing that normal laws and processes can be a constitutive dimension of modern exceptional regimes. Through an ethnography of a permanent space of exception in India, I argue that emergency regimes as forms of structural injustice are marked by affective intensities and anger directed against state power. Irom Sharmila's 16‐year hunger strike in the state of Manipur was one such affective act that challenged state authority. The police mitigated this challenge through the minutia of rules and processes targeting the protester's body. The state's legal response to the hunger strike showed that emergency powers are better understood not by the sovereign's fantasy of absolutism but as the messy affective mediation of the normal and exceptional.
Notes towards an Afterword: On “Hundreds for Katie”
Authors: Lepselter Susan
Published: September 2023

This afterword performs a contradiction. It simultaneously describes a theoretical argument against finalization while serving as a type of conclusion to “Hundreds for Katie,” a multi‐authored, curated project engaging and honoring the influential work and mentorship of Kathleen Stewart upon her recent retirement from the University of Texas. “Hundreds for Katie” is a collaborative endeavor and comprises various experimental, often personal, styles and formats. Despite their poetic and theoretical diversity, each piece in the collection is about one hundred words long, honoring the same poetic form in the final collaboration of Kathleen Stewart and Lauren Berlant, a collection of hundred‐word pieces published in The Hundreds (2019). This afterword attempts to engage some of the capacities in ethnographic voicing Kathleen Stewart pioneered. Like the other pieces in the collection, my article uses poetic license to achieve a specific affective and aesthetic effect.
From IDA to IIROC: Has self‐regulation in the Canadian investment industry evolved?
Authors: Lokanan Mark , Sharma Kush
Published: September 2023

This article analyzes the enforcement practices of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and compares them with its predecessor, the Investment Dealers Association of Canada (IDA). The study collected data from IIROC's tribunal cases decided between June 2008 and December 2019 and compared them with data on the IDA's enforcement of complaints from 1984 to 2008. The findings reveal no statistically significant difference in the fines imposed by the two regulatory bodies. Furthermore, IIROC has refrained from issuing lenient penalties such as retaking examinations/courses or mandating terms and conditions for offenders. The results also indicate no significant impact on the number or distribution of offense types committed in the industry over time. Most notably, the Ontario Securities Commission, the Canadian Securities Regulators, and the new Self‐Regulatory Organization of Canada should consider these findings when formulating policies concerning the role of self‐regulation in the financial markets.
Wing pattern diversity in Eunica butterflies (Nymphalidae: Biblidinae): phylogenetic analysis implies decoupled adaptive trends in dorsal sexual dimorphism and ventral eyespot evolution
Authors: Garzón‐Orduña Ivonne J. , Silva‐Brandão Karina Lucas , Willmott Keith , Freitas André V. L. , Wahlberg Niklas , Brower Andrew V. Z.
Published: September 2023

Butterfly eyespots are wing patterns reminiscent of vertebrate eyes, formed by concentric rings of contrastingly coloured scales. Eyespots are usually located close to the wing margin and often regarded as the single most conspicuous pattern element of butterfly wing colour displays. Recent efforts to understand the processes involved in the formation of eyespots have been driven mainly by evo‐devo approaches focused on model species. However, patterns of change implied by phylogenetic relationships can also inform hypotheses about the underlying developmental mechanisms associated with the formation or disappearance of eyespots, and the limits of phenotypic diversity occurring in nature. Here we present a combined evidence phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus Eunica, a prominent member of diverse Neotropical butterfly communities, that features notable variation among species in eyespot patterns on the ventral hind wing surface. The data matrix consists of one mitochondrial gene region (COI), four nuclear gene regions (GAPDH, RPS5, EF1a and Wingless) and 68 morphological characters. A combined cladistic analysis with all the characters concatenated produced a single most parsimonious tree that, although fully resolved, includes many nodes with modest branch support. The phylogenetic hypothesis presented corroborates a previously proposed morphological trend leading to the loss of eyespots, together with an increase in the size of the conserved eyespots, relative to outgroup taxa. Furthermore, wing colour pattern dimorphism and the presence of androconia suggest that the most remarkable instances of sexual dimorphism are present in the species of Eunica with the most derived eyespot patterns, and are in most cases accompanied by autapomorphic combinations of scent scales and “hair pencils”. We discuss natural and sexual selection as potential adaptive explanations for dorsal and ventral wing patterns.