bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of pump laser fluence on ultrafast structural changes in myoglobin
Authors: Barends Thomas R.M. , Bhattacharyya Swarnendu , Gorel Alexander , Schiro Giorgio , Bacellar Camila , Cirelli Claudio , Colletier Jacques-Philippe , Foucar Lutz , Grünbein Marie Luise , Hartmann Elisabeth , Hilpert Mario , Johnson Philip J.M. , Kloos Marco , Knopp Gregor , Marekha Bogdan , Nass Karol , Kovacs Gabriela Nass , Ozerov Dmitry , Stricker Miriam , Weik Martin , Doak R. Bruce , Shoeman Robert L. , Milne Christopher J. , Huix-Rotllant Miquel , Cammarata Marco , Schlichting Ilme
Published: November 2022

High-intensity femtosecond pulses from an X-ray free-electron laser enable pump probe experiments for investigating electronic and nuclear changes during light-induced reactions. On time scales ranging from femtoseconds to milliseconds and for a variety of biological systems, time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography (TR-SFX) has provided detailed structural data for light-induced isomerization, breakage or formation of chemical bonds and electron transfer1. However, all ultra-fast TR-SFX studies to date have employed such high pump laser energies that several photons were nominally absorbed per chromophore2-14. As multiphoton absorption may force the protein response into nonphysiological pathways, it is of great concern15whether this experimental approach16allows valid inferences to be drawn vis-à-vis biologically relevant single-photon-induced reactions17. Here we describe ultrafast pump-probe SFX experiments on photodissociation of carboxymyoglobin, showing that different pump laser fluences yield markedly different results. In particular, the dynamics of structural changes and observed indicators of the mechanistically important coherent oscillations of the Fe-CO bond distance (predicted by recent quantum wavepacket dynamics15) are seen to depend strongly on pump laser energy. Our results confirm both the feasibility and necessity of performing TR-SFX pump probe experiments in the linear photoexcitation regime. We consider this to be a starting point for reassessing design and interpretation of ultrafast TR-SFX pump probe experiments16such that biologically relevant insight emerges.
Exaptation of inactivated host enzymes for structural roles in orthopoxviruses and novel protein folds revealed by protein structure modeling
Authors: Mutz Pascal , Resch Wolfgang , Faure Guilhem , Senkevich Tatiana G. , Koonin Eugene V. , Moss Bernard
Published: November 2022

Viruses with large double-stranded DNA genomes appear to have captured the majority of their genes from the hosts at different stages of evolution. The origin of many virus genes is readily detected through highly significant sequence similarity with cellular homologs. This is the case, in particular, for virus enzymes, such as DNA and RNA polymerases or nucleotide kinases, that retain their catalytic activity after capture by an ancestral virus. However, a large fraction of virus genes have no readily detectable cellular homologs so that their origin remains enigmatic. We sought to explore potential origins of proteins of unknown provenance encoded in the genomes of orthopoxviruses, a thoroughly studied virus genus which includes major human pathogens. To this end, we used AlphaFold2, to predict the structures of all 214 proteins encoded by orthopoxviruses. Among the proteins of unknown provenance, structure prediction yielded a clear indication of origin for 14, along with validating several inferences previously made by sequence analysis. The major trend that emerges from these findings is the exaptation of enzymes from cellular organisms for non-enzymatic, structural roles in virus reproduction which is accompanied by disruption of catalytic sites and overall drastic divergence which precludes detection of homology at the sequence level. Among the 16 orthopoxvirus proteins found to be inactivated enzyme derivatives, are the poxvirus replication processivity factor A20, an inactivated derivative of bacterial NAD-dependent DNA ligase; major core protein A3, an inactivated deubiquitinase; F11, an inactivated prolyl hydroxylase; and more similar cases. However, for nearly one third of the orthopoxvirus virion proteins, no significantly similar structures were identified, suggesting exaptation with subsequent major structural rearrangement, yielding novel protein folds.
Golgi-IP, a novel tool for multimodal analysis of Golgi molecular content
Authors: Fasimoye Rotimi , Dong Wentao , Nirujogi Raja S. , Rawat Eshaan S. , Iguchi Miharu , Nyame Kwamina , Phung Toan K. , Bagnoli Enrico , Prescott Alan , Alessi Dario R. , Abu-Remaileh Monther
Published: November 2022

The Golgi is a membrane-bound organelle that is essential for protein and lipid biosynthesis. It represents a central trafficking hub that sorts proteins and lipids to various destinations or for secretion from the cell. The Golgi has emerged as a docking platform for cellular signalling pathways including LRRK2 kinase whose deregulation leads to Parkinson disease. Golgi dysfunction is associated with a broad spectrum of diseases including cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. To allow the study of the Golgi at high resolution, we report a rapid immunoprecipitation technique (Golgi-IP) to isolate intact Golgi mini-stacks for subsequent analysis of their content. By fusing the Golgi resident protein TMEM115 to three tandem HA epitopes (GolgiTAG), we purified the Golgi using Golgi-IP with minimal contamination from other compartments. We then established an analysis pipeline using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry to characterize the human Golgi proteome, metabolome and lipidome. Subcellular proteomics confirmed known Golgi proteins and identified novel ones. Metabolite profiling established the first known human Golgi metabolome and revealed the selective enrichment of uridine-diphosphate (UDP) sugars and their derivatives, which is consistent with their roles in protein and lipid glycosylation. Furthermore, targeted metabolomics validated SLC35A2 as the subcellular transporter for UDP-hexose. Finally, lipidomics analysis showed that phospholipids including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylserine are the most abundant Golgi lipids and that glycosphingolipids are enriched in this compartment. Altogether, our work establishes a comprehensive molecular map of the human Golgi and provides a powerful method to study the Golgi with high precision in health and disease states.

Significance

The Golgi is central to protein and lipid processing. It senses and responds to diverse cell states to allow trafficking of macromolecules based on cellular demands. Traditional techniques for purifying the Golgi shaped our understanding of its functions, however such methods are too slow to preserve the labile Golgi metabolome and transient protein interactions. Here, we overcome this issue through the development of a method for the rapid capture of intact Golgi from human cells using organelle-specific immunoprecipitation (Golgi-IP). Using high resolution mass spectrometry, we demonstrate that our approach allows the unbiased characterization of the Golgi proteome, metabolome and lipidome. Thus, we believe that the Golgi-IP will be useful for the study of the Golgi in health and disease states.
A systematic review of near-infrared spectroscopy in dementia
Authors: Butters Emilia , Srinivasan Sruthi , O’Brien John T , Su Li , Bale Gemma
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This review aimed to evaluate previous studies using Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in dementia by summarising the results, determining the consensus in the literature, and delineating if, and how, NIRS experimental and analysis methods may be improved for future studies in dementia.

Methods

Three databases (PsychINFO, Medline, Embase) were searched for original research studies using NIRS in dementia and prodromal disease stages. We included both observational and randomised control trials, and studies published in English. Animal studies, conference abstracts, and reviews were excluded.

Results

From 759 identified records, 80 studies using NIRS in dementia and prodromal populations across a range of activation tasks testing memory (28), word retrieval (22), and motor (7) and visuo-spatial function (4), as well as in the resting state (29) were evaluated. Across these cognitive domains, dementia patients generally showed a blunted haemodynamic response, often localised to frontal regions of interest, and a lack of task-appropriate frontal lateralisation. Prodromal stages, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment, revealed mixed results and were associated with either diminished responses or hyperactivity, accompanied by reduced cognitive function, the latter suggesting a possible compensatory neural response which is not present at the dementia stage.

Conclusion

There is clear evidence of alterations in brain oxygenation in both dementia and prodromal stages across a range of cognitive domains and in the resting state, indicating an ability of NIRS to distinguish dementia from healthy ageing, or at-risk populations. A consensus as to the nature of these changes, however, is difficult to reach due to a lack of standardisation in optical techniques and processing methods. Further studies are required exploring more naturalistic settings and in a wider range of dementia subtypes.
Developmental timing of programmed DNA elimination inParamecium tetraureliarecapitulates germline transposon evolutionary dynamics
Authors: Zangarelli Coralie , Arnaiz Olivier , Bourge Mickaël , Gorrichon Kevin , Jaszczyszyn Yan , Mathy Nathalie , Escoriza Loïc , Bétermier Mireille , Régnier Vinciane
Published: November 2022

With its nuclear dualism, the ciliateParameciumconstitutes a unique model to study how host genomes cope with transposable elements (TEs).P. tetraureliaharbors two germline micronuclei (MICs) and a polyploid somatic macronucleus (MAC) that develops from one MIC at each sexual cycle. Throughout evolution, the MIC genome has been continuously colonized by TEs and related sequences that are removed from the somatic genome during MAC development. Whereas TE elimination is generally imprecise, excision of approximately 45,000 TE-derived internal eliminated sequences (IESs) is precise, allowing for functional gene assembly. Programmed DNA elimination is concomitant with genome amplification. It is guided by noncoding RNAs and repressive chromatin marks. A subset of IESs is excised independently of this epigenetic control, raising the question of how IESs are targeted for elimination. To gain insight into the determinants of IES excision, we established the developmental timing of DNA elimination genome-wide by combining fluorescence-assisted nuclear sorting with high-throughput sequencing. Essentially all IESs are excised within only one endoreplication round (32C to 64C), whereas TEs are eliminated at a later stage. We show that DNA elimination proceeds independently of replication. We defined four IES classes according to excision timing. The earliest excised IESs tend to be independent of epigenetic factors, display strong sequence signals at their ends, and originate from the most ancient integration events. We conclude that old IESs have been optimized during evolution for early and accurate excision by acquiring stronger sequence determinants and escaping epigenetic control.
Do CSR awards enhance firms’ market value? Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Min , Long Ruixi , Tan Qingmei , Wei Keke
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) awards on firms’ market value considering these awards as a signal and proxy for the effectiveness of CSR practice.

Design/methodology/approach

There are 342 announcements of CSR awards in China from 2006 to 2017 screened and analyzed using the event study methodology.

Findings

The stock market reacts significantly negatively to CSR award announcements in the short term. Firms that are state-owned, belong to the manufacturing industry, outside east China, repeatedly win awards and are listed in the Chinese H-share market, experience a stronger stock market reaction. Interestingly, the long-term stock returns of award winners are significantly positive for multiyear holding periods.

Practical implications

The findings offer stakeholders clear guidelines on how to manage communications in the market to extract enhanced financial performance from CSR award announcements.

Originality/value

This study chooses CSR awards as a proxy for the effectiveness of excellent CSR practice. This study also contributes to the CSR literature by analyzing how investors use the award information to make investment decisions.
Influence of psychosocial safety climate on construction workers’ intent to stay, taking job satisfaction as the intermediary
Authors: Xie Linlin , Luo Ziyuan , Xia Bo
Published: November 2022

Purpose

From a psychosocial perspective, this study aims to understand the impact of psychosocial safety climate (PSC) on the intent to stay of construction workers and provides practical recommendations for construction enterprises to retain construction workers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes the conceptual framework explained by the conservation of resources (COR) theory and develops a mediation model of “PSC – job satisfaction – intent to stay” within the framework supported by the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) model. Then, a questionnaire survey of 489 construction workers in Guangzhou was conducted and structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis was performed on the data collected.

Findings

Results show that PSC has a significant and positive effect on job satisfaction and intent to stay. In addition, job satisfaction partially mediates the effect of PSC on intent to stay. Hence, the theoretical model of “PSC – job satisfaction – intent to stay” has been empirically tested and supported.

Originality/value

This study is the first to investigate the effect of PSC on intent to stay and enriches the research on the retention of construction workers. The COR theory explains well the mechanism of PSC influence on intent to stay, thus expanding its application to the construction field. Moreover, this study provides practical recommendations for construction enterprises to retain workers so as to build a stable and productive workforce.
Backer funding intention in reward-based crowdfunding: service-dominant logic and stimulus-organism-response perspectives
Authors: Wu Cedric Hsi-Jui , Atmaja Ferry Tema , Ko Yu-Chien , Guttena Revanth Kumar
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The new age of entrepreneurs recognizes crowdfunding as an innovative and effective means of obtaining funding from backers. However, attracting backers is challenging and related scholarly knowledge lacking. Therefore, this study investigates the diverse factors influencing backer funding intention in reward-based crowdfunding.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted an online survey of 401 registered backers from two reward-based crowdfunding platforms in Taiwan. Data were analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results show that entrepreneur activeness has a negative effect on perceived risk but positively, while entrepreneur activeness and platform interactivity have a positive effect on backer engagement and backer value creation. Although it had no significant impact on backer engagement, project novelty positively influenced backer value creation. Perceived risk had no influence on either backer engagement or backer value creation. Backer engagement positively influenced backer value creation and backer funding intention, with the former having a positive impact on the latter.

Originality/value

This study provides a multi-perceptual lens by proposing an integration of diverse factors such as entrepreneurial- (entrepreneur activeness), project- (project novelty and perceived risk) and platform-related characteristics (platform interactivity) as antecedents to backer funding intention. By integrating a service-dominant logic perspective into the stimulus-organism-response model, this study highlights the essence of value creation by perceiving backers as value co-creators.
Airborne cues accelerate flowering and promote photosynthesis in Brassica rapa
Authors: Brosset Agnès , Yu Hao , Blande James D.
Published: November 2022

Volatile cues can induce and/or prime plant defences, but it is less well known if plants also respond by altering growth and reproduction‐related parameters.

Here, we evaluated whether plant volatile cues can elicit changes in growth, flower production, net photosynthesis rate and defences in receiver plants and whether those responses are similar to those elicited in response to direct herbivore‐feeding.

Our results demonstrate that exposure to volatiles emitted from damaged neighbours accelerated the time to first flowering, increased the number of flowers produced and the net photosynthesis rate, but did not alter the fresh harvested plant biomass and volatile defences, compared to non‐exposed plants. Earlier flowering was also observed for plants exposed to volatiles from undamaged plants.

These responses differed from those of plants exposed to actual herbivore‐feeding for which feeding enhanced net photosynthesis rate but reduced growth and had no effect on reproduction and defence in response to subsequent herbivory.

Synthesis. These findings document that plant airborne cues can influence floral traits of receiver plants. In particular, the flower phenology is modulated, and photosynthesis is enhanced, suggesting that carbon allocation could be directed toward reproduction.
Biogas digestate as a sustainable phytosterol source for biotechnological cascade valorization
Authors: Weckerle Tim , Ewald Helen , Guth Patrick , Knorr Klaus‐Holger , Philipp Bodo , Holert Johannes
Published: November 2022

Every year, several million tonnes of anaerobic digestate are produced worldwide as a by‐product of the biogas industry, most of which is applied as agricultural fertilizer. However, in the context of a circular bioeconomy, more sustainable uses of residual digestate biomass would be desirable. This study investigates the fate of the sterol lipids β‐sitosterol and cholesterol from the feedstocks to the final digestates of three agricultural and one biowaste biogas plants to assess if sterols are degraded during anaerobic digestion or if they remain in the digestate, which could provide a novel opportunity for digestate cascade valorization. Gas chromatographic analyses showed that feedstock sterols were not degraded during anaerobic digestion, resulting in their accumulation in the digestates to up to 0.15% of the dry weight. The highest concentrations of around 1440 mg β‐sitosterol and 185 mg cholesterol per kg dry weight were found in liquid digestate fractions, suggesting partial sterol solubilization. Methanogenic batch cultures spiked with β‐sitosterol, cholesterol, testosterone and β‐oestradiol confirmed that steroids persist during anaerobic digestion. Mycobacterium neoaurum was able to transform digestate sterols quantitatively into androstadienedione, a platform chemical for steroid hormones, without prior sterol extraction or purification. These results suggest that digestate from agricultural and municipal biowaste is an untapped resource for natural sterols for biotechnological applications, providing a new strategy for digestate cascade valorization beyond land application.
GPCR signaling regulates severe stress‐induced organismic death in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Changnan , Long Yong , Wang Bingying , Zhang Chao , Ma Dengke K.
Published: November 2022

How an organism dies is a fundamental yet poorly understood question in biology. An organism can die of many causes, including stress‐induced phenoptosis, also defined as organismic death that is regulated by its genome‐encoded programs. The mechanism of stress‐induced phenoptosis is still largely unknown. Here, we show that transient but severe freezing‐thaw stress (FTS) in Caenorhabditis elegans induces rapid and robust phenoptosis that is regulated by G‐protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. RNAi screens identify the GPCR‐encoding fshr‐1 in mediating transcriptional responses to FTS. FSHR‐1 increases ligand interaction upon FTS and activates a cyclic AMP‐PKA cascade leading to a genetic program to promote organismic death under severe stress. FSHR‐1/GPCR signaling up‐regulates the bZIP‐type transcription factor ZIP‐10, linking FTS to expression of genes involved in lipid remodeling, proteostasis, and aging. A mathematical model suggests how genes may promote organismic death under severe stress conditions, potentially benefiting growth of the clonal population with individuals less stressed and more reproductively privileged. Our studies reveal the roles of FSHR‐1/GPCR‐mediated signaling in stress‐induced gene expression and phenoptosis in C. elegans, providing empirical new insights into mechanisms of stress‐induced phenoptosis with evolutionary implications.
Reciprocal associations between peer victimization and depressive symptoms among Chinese children and adolescents: Between‐ and within‐person effects
Authors: Shen Zijiao , Xiao Jiale , Su Shaobing , Tam Cheuk Chi , Lin Danhua
Published: November 2022

Peer victimization is detrimental to child mental health. Research has indicated a reciprocal relationship between peer victimization and mental health problems. Yet limited evidence was from children and adolescents in China. The present study used the random intercepts cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) to examine both between‐person and within‐person associations between peer victimization and depressive symptoms among Chinese children and adolescents. Participants were 1205 Chinese students (Mage = 11.27 years; ranged from 9 to 15 years; SD = 1.75; 55% boys) who completed four surveys (Time 1 to Time 4) between 2017 and 2019 on demographics, peer victimization, and depressive symptoms. At the between‐person level, peer victimization was positively associated with depressive symptoms. Controlling for between‐person effects, RI‐CLPM suggested positive within‐person effects from peer victimization to depressive symptoms across adjacent waves. The model also suggested a positive within‐person effect from Time 2 depressive symptoms to Time 3 peer victimization. The multi‐group analysis showed that these effects did not differ by gender, age, or subjective socioeconomic status. Peer victimization and depression appear to be reciprocally related at the transitioning period between late childhood and early adolescence in Chinese students. Mental health interventions should attend to peer victimization for children and adolescents in China.
Comparing Bion's Container–Contained Relationship with Aspects of Containment in the Collective Unconscious
Authors: Rinaldi Matthew
Published: November 2022

The psychodynamic therapist is both aware of and open to phenomena arising in their relationship with the patient. This paper compares two different phenomena and expands on how processing these phenomena aids the therapeutic pair: Bion's container–contained relationship and Jung's concept of the collective unconscious, which could be thought of as containing the therapeutic relationship. The two concepts will be described and elucidated using a clinical example of a therapist's dream from the collective unconscious following sudden termination in therapy. This supports a synthesis of the two concepts in a developmental context and within the wider scholarship of both thinkers. Finally, their relationships to embodied processes will be explored.
More than advocates: Lawyers' role in efficient refugee status determination
Authors: Fraser Nicholas A. R.
Published: November 2022

For years, Canadian refugee status determination (RSD) procedures have faced significant administrative capacity issues. Arguing that the RSD system was attracting “unfounded” claims and becoming inefficient, the Harper government pursued rights‐restrictive reforms. Is there a connection between applicants' procedural rights and the efficiency of Canadian RSD? This article outlines and empirically tests arguments for and against restricting refugee applicants' procedural rights to enhance efficiency. Examining macro‐level trends in applications and micro‐level adjudicator‐specific routines, it presents evidence against the notion that rights‐restrictive measures save adjudicators time. The article also shows that procedural rights can foster efficient RSD practices when applicants and adjudicators have access to competent legal counsel.
Effect of personality traits on socioeconomic inequalities in health, a population‐based study
Authors: Zakershahrak Mehrsa , Brennan David
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the effects of positive personality traits (PTs) in income and self‐rated dental and general health (SRDH and SRGH) associations in a large South Australian sample.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses were conducted using self‐reported data collected from 3578 adults (2015–2016). Multivariable regression models assessed the main effects and interactions of the Ten‐Item Personality Inventory (TIPI) and income with SRDH and SRGH. Prevalence ratios (PR) of poor health ratings were estimated using Poisson regression.

Results

Among all respondents, high‐income individuals with stronger Conscientiousness scores had the lowest prevalence of poor SRGH (0.8%), while those with stronger Extraversion (2.9%) and Agreeableness scores (3.4%) had the lowest prevalence of poor SRDH. Poor SRGH was related to weak Conscientiousness (PR = 6.9, 95% CI [2.3–20.8]) and Emotional Stability scores (PR = 6.0, 95% CI [2.0–18.3]), while poor SRDH was associated with weak Extraversion (PR = 2.3, 95% CI [1.2–4.5]), Agreeableness (PR = 1.8, 95% CI [1.0–3.2]) and Conscientiousness scores (PR = 2.1, 95% CI [1.1–4.0]). Among low‐income people, poor health ratings were less prevalent in those with stronger positive PTs scores versus weaker scores. Among low‐income respondents, poor SRGH was lower in individuals with stronger versus weaker Conscientiousness scores (10.9% vs 16.2%), and poor SRDH showed lower prevalence in participants with stronger versus weaker Agreeableness scores (18.1% vs 22.6%).

Conclusion

Findings showed the association between PTs and the prevalence of poor SRDH and SRGH. Stronger positive PTs modified the self‐rated health inequalities associated with low income in a representative sample of the South Australian population.
Differentiable Depth for Real2Sim Calibration of Soft Body Simulations
Authors: Arnavaz K. , Nielsen M. Kragballe , Kry P. G. , Macklin M. , Erleben K.
Published: November 2022

In this work, we present a novel approach for calibrating material model parameters for soft body simulations using real data. We use a fully differentiable pipeline, combining a differentiable soft body simulator and differentiable depth rendering, which permits fast gradient‐based optimizations. Our method requires no data pre‐processing, and minimal experimental set‐up, as we directly minimize the L2‐norm between raw LIDAR scans and rendered simulation states. In essence, we provide the first marker‐free approach for calibrating a soft‐body simulator to match observed real‐world deformations. Our approach is inexpensive as it solely requires a consumer‐level LIDAR sensor compared to acquiring a professional marker‐based motion capture system. We investigate the effects of different material parameterizations and evaluate convergence for parameter optimization in both single and multi‐material scenarios of varying complexity. Finally, we show that our set‐up can be extended to optimize for dynamic behaviour as well.
Bear in a Window: Australian children's perspectives on lockdown and experiences of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kelly Barbara F. , Diskin‐Holdaway Chloé
Published: November 2022

This paper examines the reflections of a cohort of Australian children who lived through the 2020–21 COVID‐19 pandemic and experienced being in ‘lockdown’; a state of largely being confined to the home for long periods daily. We report how children reflect on their experiences and illustrate how reflections draw on similar topics focused on localised child concerns regarding health, education, family, digital engagement, mealtimes and food. Further, we argue for the importance of including children's own voices of lived experience in reports regarding life during the pandemic since these perspectives may differ from those reported by adults on children's behalf.
White matter integrity mediates the associations between white matter hyperintensities and cognitive function in patients with silent cerebrovascular diseases
Authors: Chen Jing , Ge Anyan , Zhou Ying , Ma Yuanyuan , Zhong Shaoping , Chen Caizhong , Shi Weibin , Ding Jing , Wang Xin
Published: November 2022

Objective

To evaluate the relationships between cognitive function and white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) in patients with silent cerebrovascular disease and to investigate whether white matter integrity or brain atrophy play a role in this association.

Methods

Automated Fiber Quantification and Voxel‐ based morphometry were used to track and identify the integrity of 20 well‐defined white matter tracts and to measure the gray matter volume (GMV). A linear regression model was applied for examining the associations between cognitive function and WMHV and mediation analysis was used to identify the roles of white matter integrity or GMV in the influence of WMHV on cognitive function.

Results

Two hundred and thirty‐six individuals were included for analysis. Executive function was linearly associated with fractional anisotropy (FA) of the right interior frontal occipital fasciculus (IFOF) (β = 0.193; 95% CI, 0.126 to 1.218) and with WMHV (β = −0.188; 95% CI, −0.372 to −0.037). Information processing speed was linearly associated with WMHV (β = −0.357; 95% CI, −0.643 to −0.245), FA of the right anterior thalamic radiation (ATR) (β = 0.207; 95% CI, 0.116 to 0.920), and FA of the left superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) (β = 0.177; 95% CI, 0.103 to 1.315). The relationship between WMHV and executive function was mediated by FA of the right IFOF (effect size = −0.045, 95% CI, −0.015 to −0.092). Parallel mediation analysis showed that the association between WMHV and information processing speed was mediated by FA of the right ATR (effect size = −0.099, 95% CI, −0.198 to −0.038) and FA of the left SLF (effect size = −0.038, 95% CI, −0.080 to −0.003).

Conclusion

These findings suggest a mechanism by which WMH affects executive function and information processing speed by impairing white matter integrity. This may be helpful in providing a theoretical basis for rehabilitation strategies of cognitive function in patients with silent cerebrovascular diseases.
Neurocognitive outcomes at age 5 years after prophylactic hydrocortisone in infants born extremely preterm
Authors: Trousson Clémence , Toumazi Artemis , Bourmaud Aurélie , Biran Valérie , Baud Olivier
Published: November 2022

Aim

To assess the 5‐year neurocognitive outcomes of children born extremely preterm exposed to prophylactic hydrocortisone to improve survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Method

This was a prespecified secondary analysis of the PREMILOC clinical trial (trial registration: EudraCT no. 2007–002041‐20, NCT00623740). The primary outcome was full‐scale IQ based on the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence.

Results

Among 109 surviving children recruited at the Robert Debré Children's Hospital, Paris, outcome data were available for 42 out of 56 infants (75%) in the group treated with hydrocortisone and 41 out of 53 (77%) in the placebo group. Mean scores were not significantly different between the two groups on full‐scale IQ (hydrocortisone: 91.9 [SD = 13.9], placebo: 86.3 [SD = 15.4]; mean difference = 5.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.0 to 12.3, p = 0.10); however, working memory and retention ability were significantly better in the group treated with hydrocortisone. In a multivariate logistic regression including potential confounding variables, hydrocortisone treatment was significantly associated with a greater chance to survive at 5 years of age with a full‐scale IQ equal to or greater than 90 compared to placebo (adjusted odds ratio = 4.26, 95% CI = 1.47–12.36, p = 0.008).

Interpretation

This exploratory analysis provides reassuring data regarding the long‐term neurodevelopmental safety of prophylactic hydrocortisone in infants born extremely preterm.
Trade secrets protection and stock price crash risk
Authors: Hu Dan , Lee Eunju , Li Bingxin
Published: November 2022

This paper provides evidence that the trade secrets protection increases stock price crash risk. Using a quasi‐experimental setting with the Uniform Trade Secrets Act (UTSA), we find that firms headquartered in states adopting the UTSA tend to have higher stock price crash risk. The results are robust to controlling for other trade secrets laws and the choice of crash risk measures, and they are more pronounced in small firms and firms with high market‐to‐book and low leverage ratios. A detailed mechanism analysis reveals that increased crash risk following the UTSA is attributed to an opaque information environment and investment inefficiency.
Exploratory investigation of a patient‐informed low‐dose psilocybin pulse regimen in the suppression of cluster headache: Results from a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Schindler Emmanuelle A. D. , Sewell R. Andrew , Gottschalk Christopher H. , Luddy Christina , Flynn L. Taylor , Zhu Yutong , Lindsey Hayley , Pittman Brian P. , Cozzi Nicholas V. , D'Souza Deepak C.
Published: November 2022

Objective

Using a patient‐informed regimen, we conducted an exploratory randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study to systematically investigate the effects of psilocybin in cluster headache.

Background

Sustained reductions in cluster headache burden after limited quantities of psilocybin‐containing mushrooms are anecdotally reported, although to date there are no controlled studies investigating these effects.

Methods

Participants were randomized to receive psilocybin (0.143 mg/kg) or placebo (microcrystalline cellulose) in a pulse of three doses, each ~5 days apart. Participants maintained headache diaries starting 2 weeks before and continuing through 8 weeks after the first drug session. A total of 16 participants were randomized to receive experimental drug and 14 were included in the final analysis.

Results

In the 3 weeks after the start of the pulse regimen, the change in cluster attack frequency was 0.03 (95% confidence interval [CI] −2.6 to 2.6) attacks/week with placebo (baseline 8.9 [95% CI 3.8 to 14.0]) and −3.2 (95% CI −8.3 to 1.9) attacks/week with psilocybin (baseline 9.6 [95% CI 5.6 to 13.6]; p = 0.251). Group difference in change from baseline had a moderate effect size (d = 0.69). The effect size was small in episodic participants (d = 0.35) but large in chronic participants (d = 1.25), which remained over the entire 8‐week period measured (d = 0.81). Changes in cluster attack frequency were not correlated with the intensity of acute psychotropic effects during psilocybin administration. Psilocybin was well‐tolerated without any unexpected or serious adverse events.

Conclusions

Findings from this initial, exploratory study provide valuable information for the development of larger, more definitive studies. Efficacy outcomes were negative, owing in part to the small number of participants. The separation of acute psychotropic effects and lasting therapeutic effects underscores the need for further investigation into the mechanism(s) of action of psilocybin in headache disorders.
Integrating Patient‐reported Experience (PRE) in a multistage approach to study access to health services for women with chronic illness and migration experience
Authors: Abel Thomas , Tadesse Lidya , Frahsa Annika , Sakarya Sibel
Published: November 2022

Background

Patient‐reported Experience (PRE) is an emerging concept integrating patient perspectives and amplifying voices often marginalized in discussions surrounding health systems. However, it remains a challenge to use and integrate PREs when studying patient agency and access to quality services, particularly with data from multiple sources. In this article, using study materials from the Swiss MIWOCA project, we present and reflect upon a multistage PRE approach to study healthcare access.

Methods

The MIWOCA project, a study on healthcare access and quality among immigrant women with chronic illnesses living in Switzerland, provided data from multiple sources for the integration of PRE data. These sources included interviews with women (n = 48), two focus group discussions with women (n = 15), interviews with service providers (n = 12) and observations from stakeholder dialogues (n = 3). In addition, we utilized field notes, focus group illustration maps, patient vignettes and policy briefs to develop a multistage data linking model. PRE data served as starting themes and reference topics in each of the interlinked stages of knowledge production.

Results

Deploying PREs, we coherently linked the data from preceding stages and used them to inform subsequent stages. This, in turn, enabled us to identify, reflect and rectify factors limiting immigrant women's agency and access to quality services. Ultimately, the approach engaged patients as knowledge co‐producers for system‐level changes. This knowledge was transformed into a set of practice recommendations and a policy brief addressing ways to improve health systems to better serve immigrant women in Switzerland.

Conclusions

Building on PREs to systematically combine multiple data sources and engage patients continuously can improve our understanding of barriers in health systems. Beyond individual patient‐doctor encounters, a multistage PRE approach can identify structural problems and provide clues for resolving them at the systems level. The PREs approach presented may serve as an example and encourage more public health experts to consider PREs in future research and practice.

Patient and Public Contribution

Women with chronic illness and immigration experience contributed to interview‐guideline development, provided PREs in interviews, identified priority areas for health‐service change and actively participated in the development of practice recommendations.
What are the reasons for unfinished nursing care as perceived by hospitalized patients? Findings from a qualitative study
Authors: Chiappinotto Stefania , Coppe Alberto , Palese Alvisa
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Unfinished nursing care (UNC), as the care required by patients that delayed or not delivered, has been investigated mainly from the perspective of nurses, while little is still known from the side of patients. Some studies have involved patients to measure which elements of care are mostly unfinished (e.g., mouth care), whereas a few studies have investigated the reasons for UNC as perceived by them. Their involvement in understanding the reasons for UNC is crucial to advance the knowledge and co‐develop possible strategies to prevent or minimize UNC.

Methods

This is a descriptive qualitative study performed according to COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research guidelines in 2022. A purposeful sample of Italian hospitalized patients in two medical and two surgical units was involved. A face‐to‐face semistructured interview was used to merge reasons for UNC. Qualitative content analysis was conducted to merge subthemes and themes as factors leading to UNC according to the experience of patients.

Results

A total of 23 patients (12 surgical and 11 medical) were involved (12/23 male) with an age average of 66.2 years, educated mainly at secondary school, and with previous hospitalizations (20/23), and dependent on nursing care in daily activities (14/23). Reasons for UNC have been identified at four levels: (1) ‘New health‐care system priorities’ and ‘Pre‐existing frailty of health‐care facilities’ were reasons identified at the health‐care system level; (2) ‘Lack of resources attributed to wards’, ‘Ineffective ward organization’ and ‘Leadership’ were identified at the unit level; (3) ‘Nurses' attitudes and behaviour’ were reported at the nurses' level and (4) ‘Increased nursing care expectations’ were pinpointed at the patient level.

Conclusion

Patients can be involved in identifying UNC, but also in recognizing the underlying reasons. Engaging them in such investigations might broaden our understanding of the phenomenon and the possibility of identifying strategies to minimize and prevent UNC.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients from four hospital units (two medical and two surgical) were involved in face‐to‐face interviews to merge the reasons perceived by them as triggering UNC. All factors (as themes and subthemes) have derived from their words, thus enhancing the evidence available from the side of the patients.
A novel fluorescent probe based on white pitaya peel‐derived carbon dots for highly selective and sensitive determination of sulfaquinoxaline in food
Authors: Zhang Lei , Peng Yan , Zhou Yue , Wu Yan , Le Tao
Published: November 2022

A fluorescent probe based on carbon dots (CDs) for the detection of sulfoquinoxaline (SQX) in food was studied. White pitaya peel‐derived carbon dots (WCDs) were synthesised by hydrothermal method. The obtained WCDs exhibit excellent fluorescence response towards SQX due to the inner filter effect (IFE) and aggregation‐caused quenching(ACQ), which cause the fluorescence to be quenched. The prepared fluorescent probe has a good linear relationship, and the detection limit of SQX is 24.5 μg L−1. The practicability of the fluorescent probe was further validated in milk, honey, eggs, carp, pork, chicken, beef and pork liver, and the recoveries of SQX range from 93.38% to 103.86%. The fluorescent probe based on WCDs has high selectivity, specificity, sensitivity, reliability and good reproducibility for the detection of SQX.
Private companies' engagement in the labour market integration of refugees: An exploratory study of the city of Stuttgart, Germany
Authors: Torfa Masooma , Bosch Christine , Birner Regina , Schammann Hannes
Published: November 2022

Private companies of all sizes may engage in the integration of refugees into the labour market. Taking the case study of the highly industrialised German city of Stuttgart, this study explores the motivation of (a) private large‐scale international enterprises including (automotive and high‐tech companies) and (b) family‐owned small‐ to medium‐sized companies (private social enterprises, suppliers to the automotive industries, architecture, and engineering companies) to do so. The research further explores the companies' challenges, opportunities and the lessons learned throughout the process. Utilising the principles of Grounded Theory, a qualitative case study approach is applied with in‐depth interviews with private companies, civil society, public private partnerships and experts. The findings show that the arrival of a large number of refugees during 2015/2016 has increased the engagement of the companies, increased their cooperation with other sectors, and has correspondingly led to some innovative initiatives in refugees' labour market integration and policy advocacy. The call for the engagement of the private sector and the existence of employment‐related policies such as tolerated work permits (Ausbildungsduldung/Beschäftigungsduldung) were essential to create sufficient incentives for private companies to engage in the training and employment of refugees. However, the insecure residence permits and bureaucratic procedures in the public sector mostly discouraged their engagement. Our research shows that the two company types had different possibilities, different approaches towards refugees and faced different challenges while engaging in refugee labour market integration.
The identification of clusters of risk factors and their association with hospitalizations or emergency department visits in home health care
Authors: Song Jiyoun , Chae Sena , Bowles Kathryn H. , McDonald Margaret V. , Barrón Yolanda , Cato Kenrick , Rossetti Sarah Collins , Hobensack Mollie , Sridharan Sridevi , Evans Lauren , Davoudi Anahita , Topaz Maxim
Published: November 2022

Aims

To identify clusters of risk factors in home health care and determine if the clusters are associated with hospitalizations or emergency department visits.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

This study included 61,454 patients pertaining to 79,079 episodes receiving home health care between 2015 and 2017 from one of the largest home health care organizations in the United States. Potential risk factors were extracted from structured data and unstructured clinical notes analysed by natural language processing. A K‐means cluster analysis was conducted. Kaplan–Meier analysis was conducted to identify the association between clusters and hospitalizations or emergency department visits during home health care.

Results

A total of 11.6% of home health episodes resulted in hospitalizations or emergency department visits. Risk factors formed three clusters. Cluster 1 is characterized by a combination of risk factors related to “impaired physical comfort with pain,” defined as situations where patients may experience increased pain. Cluster 2 is characterized by “high comorbidity burden” defined as multiple comorbidities or other risks for hospitalization (e.g., prior falls). Cluster 3 is characterized by “impaired cognitive/psychological and skin integrity” including dementia or skin ulcer. Compared to Cluster 1, the risk of hospitalizations or emergency department visits increased by 1.95 times for Cluster 2 and by 2.12 times for Cluster 3 (all p < .001).

Conclusion

Risk factors were clustered into three types describing distinct characteristics for hospitalizations or emergency department visits. Different combinations of risk factors affected the likelihood of these negative outcomes.

Impact

Cluster‐based risk prediction models could be integrated into early warning systems to identify patients at risk for hospitalizations or emergency department visits leading to more timely, patient‐centred care, ultimately preventing these events.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no involvement of patients in developing the research question, determining the outcome measures, or implementing the study.