bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Fis1 directly interacts with Drp1 in an evolutionarily conserved manner to promote mitochondrial fission
Authors: Nolden Kelsey A. , Harwig Megan C. , Hill R. Blake
Published: May 2023

Mitochondrial Fission Protein 1 (Fis1) and Dynamin Related Protein 1 (Drp1) are the only two proteins evolutionarily conserved for mitochondrial fission, and directly interact inS. cerevisiaeto facilitate membrane scission. However, it remains unclear if a direct interaction is conserved in higher eukaryotes as other Drp1 recruiters, not present in yeast, are known. Using NMR, differential scanning fluorimetry, and microscale thermophoresis, we determined that human Fis1 directly interacts with human Drp1 (KD= 12-68 µM), and appears to prevent Drp1 assembly, but not GTP hydrolysis. Similar to yeast, the Fis1-Drp1 interaction appears governed by two structural features of Fis1: its N-terminal arm and a conserved surface. Alanine scanning mutagenesis of the arm identified both loss- and gain-of-function alleles with mitochondrial morphologies ranging from highly elongated (N6A) to highly fragmented (E7A) demonstrating a profound ability of Fis1 to govern morphology in human cells. An integrated analysis identified a conserved Fis1 residue, Y76, that upon substitution to alanine, but not phenylalanine, also caused highly fragmented mitochondria. The similar phenotypic effects of the E7A and Y76A substitutions, along with NMR data, support that intramolecular interactions occur between the arm and a conserved surface on Fis1 to promote Drp1-mediated fission as inS. cerevisiae. These findings indicate that some aspects of Drp1-mediated fission in humans derive from direct Fis1-Drp1 interactions that are conserved across eukaryotes.
ZIKV Induction of Tristetraprolin in Endothelial and Sertoli Cells Post-Transcriptionally Inhibits IFNβ/λ Expression and Promotes ZIKV Persistence
Authors: Schutt William R. , Conde Jonas N. , Mladinich Megan C. , Himler Grace E. , Mackow Erich R.
Published: May 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borneFlavivirusthat persistently infects patients, enters protected brain, placental, and testicular compartments, is sexually transmitted, and causes fetal microcephalyin utero. ZIKV persistently infects brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs) that form the blood-brain-barrier and Sertoli cells that form testicular barriers, establishing reservoirs that enable viral dissemination. ZIKV persistence requires inhibiting interferon (IFN) responses that direct viral clearance. We found that ZIKV induces IFN-β and IFN-λ in hBMECs but post-transcriptionally inhibits IFN-β/λ expression. IFNβ/λ mRNAs contain AU-rich elements (AREs) in their 3’ untranslated regions which regulate protein expression through interactions with ARE binding proteins (ARE-BPs). We found that ZIKV infection of primary hBMECs induces the expression of the ARE-BP tristetraprolin (TTP) and that TTP is a novel regulator of endothelial IFN secretion. In hBMECs, TTP knockout (KO) increased IFN-β/λ1mRNA abundance and IFN-β/λ1secretion in response to ZIKV infection and inhibited viral persistence. In contrast, TTP expression dramatically reduced IFN-β/λ1secretion in hBMECs. IFN-β/λ1mRNA stability was not significantly altered by TTP and is consistent with TTP inhibition of IFN-β/λ1translation. TTP is similarly induced by ZIKV infection of Sertoli cells, and like hBMECs, TTP expression or KO inhibited or enhanced IFN-β/λ mRNA levels, respectively. These findings reveal a mechanism for ZIKV induced TTP to promote viral persistence in hBMECs and Sertoli cells by post-transcriptionally regulating IFN-β/λ secretion. Our results demonstrate a novel role for virally induced TTP in regulating IFN secretion in barrier cells that normally restrict viral persistence and spread to protected compartments.

Importance

Our findings define a novel role for ZIKV induced TTP expression in regulating IFN-β/λ production in primary hBMECs and Sertoli cells. These cells comprise key physiological barriers subverted by ZIKV to access brain and testicular compartments and serve as reservoirs for persistent replication and dissemination. We demonstrate for the first time that the ARE binding protein TTP is virally induced and post-transcriptionally regulates IFN-β/λ secretion. In ZIKV infected hBMEC and Sertoli cells, TTP knockout increased IFN-β/λ secretion, while TTP expression blocked IFN-β/λ secretion. The TTP directed blockade of IFN secretion permits ZIKV spread and persistence in hBMECs and Sertoli cells and may similarly augment ZIKV spread across IFN-λ protected placental barriers. Our work highlights the importance of post-transcriptional ZIKV regulation of IFN expression and secretion in cells that regulate viral access to protected compartments and defines a novel mechanism of ZIKV regulated IFN responses which facilitate neurovirulence and sexual transmission.
An analysis of audit effort/hour demand based on shareholder ownership power
Authors: Mali Dafydd , Lim Hyoungjoo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Audit hour reporting is rare internationally. Thus, to what extent shareholders have the power to influence audit effort/hour demand is a question left unanswered. This study aims to use unique South Korean data to determine whether the increasing power of the largest foreign/domestic shareholders and blockholders can influence audit hour demand.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis is conducted using a sample of Korean listed firms over the 2004–2018 sample period.

Findings

The results show: as the percentage equity holding of the largest foreign shareholder and blockholder (>5%) increases, audit hour demand increases. As the shareholding of the largest domestic shareholder increases, audit hour demanded decreases. The association between audit fees/hours is not qualitatively indifferent, after controlling for the audit fee premium effect. Furthermore, the largest foreign shareholder is shown to demand increasingly higher levels of audit hours from Big4 auditors, relative to NonBig4. All results are consistent with audit demand theory.

Originality/value

Whilst previous studies offer audit fee/risk interpretations, this study extends the literature by developing a framework to explain why audit hour demands differ for specific groups. Because audit hour information is rare internationally, the study has important policy implications.
Risk assessment in machine learning enhanced failure mode and effects analysis
Authors: Wang Zeping , Du Hengte , Tao Liangyan , Javed Saad Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The traditional failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) has some limitations, such as the neglect of relevant historical data, subjective use of rating numbering and the less rationality and accuracy of the Risk Priority Number. The current study proposes a machine learning–enhanced FMEA (ML-FMEA) method based on a popular machine learning tool, Waikato environment for knowledge analysis (WEKA).

Design/methodology/approach

This work uses the collected FMEA historical data to predict the probability of component/product failure risk by machine learning based on different commonly used classifiers. To compare the correct classification rate of ML-FMEA based on different classifiers, the 10-fold cross-validation is employed. Moreover, the prediction error is estimated by repeated experiments with different random seeds under varying initialization settings. Finally, the case of the submersible pump in Bhattacharjee et al. (2020) is utilized to test the performance of the proposed method.

Findings

The results show that ML-FMEA, based on most of the commonly used classifiers, outperforms the Bhattacharjee model. For example, the ML-FMEA based on Random Committee improves the correct classification rate from 77.47 to 90.09 per cent and area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) from 80.9 to 91.8 per cent, respectively.

Originality/value

The proposed method not only enables the decision-maker to use the historical failure data and predict the probability of the risk of failure but also may pave a new way for the application of machine learning techniques in FMEA.
Confidence and change in entrepreneurial plan upon reentry: examining the effects in crowdfunding failure
Authors: Fan-Osuala Onochie
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Confidence gives entrepreneurs the belief that they can exercise control and that they have the ability to ensure the success of a focal entrepreneurial endeavor. However, failure can rattle an entrepreneur's confidence causing them to question their belief and ability. This study investigates the link between confidence and entrepreneurial plan upon reentry after crowdfunding failure. Particularly, it examines whether more confident entrepreneurs who failed in their original crowdfunding endeavor persist or change their plan in terms of the positioning of the crowdfunding endeavor and the funding goal in the subsequent attempt.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 2179 serial crowdfunding entrepreneurs who initially experienced failure before launching a subsequent crowdfunding endeavor, this study explores and tests four hypotheses on the relationship between confidence and the change implemented by entrepreneurs in their subsequent crowdfunding endeavors after failure.

Findings

The results suggest that more confident entrepreneurs who experienced failure in their initial crowdfunding endeavor persist in their positioning when they attempt a subsequent endeavor. However, no strong relationship was observed between entrepreneurial confidence and persistence with the funding goal of the initial crowdfunding plan in the subsequent crowdfunding endeavor. The study also finds suggestive but inconclusive evidence that the level of negative performance in the failed crowdfunding endeavor moderates the relationship between the entrepreneur's confidence and change in crowdfunding positioning.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the effect of entrepreneurial confidence on crowdfunding endeavors after an initial failure. Prior research has focused on its effect in driving the performance of crowdfunding endeavors rather than on how it may affect the plan in terms of the positioning and funding goal enacted by the entrepreneur after experiencing failure.
Effect of market-based regulations on corporate carbon disclosure and carbon performance: global evidence
Authors: Siddique Md Abubakar , Aljifri Khaled , Hossain Shahadut , Choudhury Tonmoy
Published: May 2023

Purpose

In this study, the authors examine the relationships between market-based regulations and corporate carbon disclosure and carbon performance. The authors also investigate whether these relationships vary across emission-intensive and non-emission intensive industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consists of the world's 500 largest companies across most major industries over a recent five-year period. Country-specific random effect multiple regression analysis is used to test empirical models that predict relationships between market-based regulations and carbon disclosure and carbon performance.

Findings

Results indicate that market-based regulations significantly and positively affect corporate carbon performance. However, market-based regulations do not significantly affect corporate carbon disclosure. This study also finds that the association between regulatory pressures and carbon disclosure and carbon performance varies across emission-intensive and non-emission-intensive industries.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study have key implications for policymakers, practitioners and future researchers in terms of understanding the factors that drive businesses to increase their carbon performance and disclosure. The study sample consists of only large firms, and future researchers can undertake similar studies with small and medium-sized firms.

Practical implications

The results of this study are expected to help business managers to identify the benefits of adopting market-based regulations. Regulators can use this study’s results to evaluate if market-based regulations effectively improve corporate carbon performance and disclosure. Furthermore, stakeholders may use this study to evaluate and improve their businesses' reporting of carbon disclosure and performance.

Originality/value

In contrast to current literature that has used command and control regulations as a proxy for regulation, this study uses market-based regulations as a proxy for climate change regulations. In addition, this study uses a more comprehensive measure of carbon disclosure and carbon performance compared to the previous studies. It also uses global multi-sector data from carbon disclosure project (CDP) in contrast to most current studies that use national data from annual reports of sample firms of specific sectors.
La Antigua Guatemala living heritage. Improving governance for sustainable development
Authors: Ramírez de León Mario Raúl , Wolley Schwarz Claudia Blanca Verónica , Molina Soto María Elena , Ruiz Olga Edith , Ixquiaptap Tuc María Magdalena , García Valdez Josué Roberto
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper discusses how the Heritage Place Lab (HPL) Pilot Phase, led by International Centre for the Study of Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) (2021–2022), supported La Antigua Guatemala (LAG) World Heritage Site as a case study to identify research gaps to strengthen HPL's management through a collaborative process between research and practice teams.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative method was adopted that followed the collaborative process proposed for the HPL Pilot Phase. An adapted version of the Enhancing Our Heritage (EoH) Toolkit 2.0 (forthcoming) was applied. The HPL served as an incubator for on-going research projects, with LAG acting as one of eight case studies.

Findings

To achieve sustainable development at the site, strengthening the governance model is a priority. This should focus on adopting a more comprehensive management approach that includes the surrounding areas and new values that have been identified since the approach's inscription in 1979 as well as addressing the impacts of climate change.

Research limitations/implications

The study finds that this task is essential to widely disseminate and follow up the findings made between researchers and site managers as well as to propose a new governance model alongside associated changes in conservation and municipal and national legislation. Therefore, long-term political support and commitment from institutions, authorities and stakeholders involved in the management and conservation of LAG will be essential.

Social implications

All sectors and institutions in the local community should be involved in the conservation and development of LAG and its surrounding areas. Local communities should benefit from a more effective and inclusive model of governance that recognises and enhances the communities' values as part of communities' identity and quality of life. Climate change mitigation and risk-prevention programmes should also be put in place.

Originality/value

To date, research in LAG has been disparate and has not responded to LAG's management needs that result from LAG's complexity as a living historical city. This paper demonstrates the contribution that collaborative work can make between researchers and site managers to identifying, prioritising and proposing solutions to the challenges facing World Heritage Sites.
The influence of need for cognition and need for emotion on elderly responses to advertising: an exploratory study and implications for change in management
Authors: Safraou Imen , Guiot Denis
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper examines the relationship between “chronological age” and the individual difference variables: “Need for cognition” (NFC) and “Need for emotion” (NFE). More specifically, this study investigates the influence of these individual difference variables on elderly responses towards advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a sample of 600 individuals. 300 elderly aged between 60 and 75 years old (average age: 67.67 years old), recruited from institutions and third age universities in Paris and 300 young adults, aged between 20 and 35 years old (average age: 25.14 years old) from academic institutions in Paris.

Findings

The findings show that NFC and NFE have different levels depending on age. Indeed, NFC is lower among older than younger individuals, and NFE is higher among older than younger individuals. Moreover, different levels in NFC and NFE may affect responses to ads. Thus, a high NFC can elicit more favorable cognitive responses to ads and a high NFE triggers more favorable affective responses.

Research limitations/implications

The study investigates specifically the effects of chronological age on the individual difference variables NFC and NFE; however, the influence of chronological age on these individual variables may be affected by other variables such as subjective age, level of education and physical condition.

Practical implications

Given that NFC and NFE are dynamic variables that change with age and that they influence responses to advertising, it would be necessary to take them into account and to integrate them when building management persuasion models specifically targeting the elderly.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the influence of individual variables (NFE and NFC) on responses to advertising, of an underexplored population: the elderly. This could help to better understand the persuasion mechanisms when it comes to targeting the elderly both outside and inside organizations, with deriving implications for change in management.
Zoom Communication Inc.: keeping the good times going?
Authors: Ahmadsimab Alireza , Tajeddin Mahdi , Fralich Russell
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe how Zoom became the tope video conferencing service across the globe.

Research methodology

This case was developed from secondary sources including industry reports, academic, newspaper, periodical sources, company annual reports, social media sites and company websites. This case has been classroom tested with undergraduates in a strategic management course as a capstone course.

Case overview/synopsis

The case study describes the rapid growth of Zoom Communications Inc., a San Jose based publicly traded video conferencing company founded in 2011 by Eric Yuan. It illustrates the competition in the online meeting solutions industry in late 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown. To explain how Zoom became the top video conferencing service across the globe, the case highlights the attractiveness of the market and the competitive advantage of Zoom over its rivals. Students can evaluate the internal capabilities and competencies of Zoom as well as identify key challenges in the external environment for sustaining Zoom’s competitive advantage.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for strategic management classes for upper-level undergraduates and at the graduate level for MBA and/or master students. It prepares students to discuss core concepts in strategy, such as competitive strategy and competitive forces that shape strategy.
A bubble identification mechanism: Evidence from the Chinese stock market
Authors: He Chaolin , Gao Yijia , Xiao Feng , Tang Liangling , Khan Yasir
Published: May 2023

This paper provides a bubble date‐stamping mechanism using the agent‐based computational finance method. The key steps of the bubble date‐stamping mechanism are the construction of the simulated financial market, the computation of the characteristic indexes, and the thresholds of the Price Band in the simulated financial market. The present study adopts the mechanism to identify the bubbles of sample stocks in the Chinese stock market from April 2003 to December 2019. The findings show that the bubbles are primarily distributed in 2006–2008, 2009–2012 and 2014–2018, respectively. Furthermore, we analyse the bubble strength and the price fluctuation during the above three periods. In addition to the bubble date‐stamping mechanism, the paper also studies the factors that drive the bubbles in the Chinese stock market from both macro and micro perspectives.
The Charities Act 2022 and its Dissuasive Effects on Donors
Authors: Picton John
Published: May 2023

The Charities Act 2022 is the product of a report, Technical Issues in Charity Law, by the Law Commission. It is argued that certain headline reforms in the legislation should not be understood as merely technical. In order to give that claim an objective meaning, a frame for analysis is adopted – it is seen that the reform package has a dissuasive effect on donors. That means, all other things being equal, that donors are steered to reduce the size of their gifts, or in some cases, to refrain from giving. There is a careful line to tread. There is no magic in encouraging donation. It is not argued that the dissuasive reforms are necessarily undesirable or unjustifiable in themselves. Instead, the analysis is focused on a tight claim that unrecognised dissuasive, and so substantive, changes have been made.
Different effects of the methods of administering lactoferrin, IGF‐1 and IgG from bovine colostrum to rabbits based on the cytokine communication network
Authors: Lu Dingqiang , Geng Chaoyu , Yu Liqin , Pang Guangchang
Published: May 2023

Lactoferrin, IGF‐1 and IgG are three well‐known bioactive proteins found in bovine colostrum. We studied the effects of these three active ingredients on the levels of eight cytokines in serum and on the cellular communication networks in vivo by oral administration, intraperitoneal injection and intravenous injection. The results suggested that bioactive ingredients, especially biomacromolecules, can induce different effects, even opposite effects, on the immune system depending on the route of administration. These effects are related to both the functions of the bioactive ingredient in vivo and to its specific receptor binding in the gastrointestinal mucosa that activates different signalling pathways.
Homicidal electrocution disguised as an accidental death
Authors: Meshram Vikas Premlal. , Shekhawat Raghavendra Singh , Ayyappan Sathish , Rao Meenakshi , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: May 2023

Deaths due to electrocution are mostly accidental. Homicide by electrocution is rarely reported in the literature. However, the location and pattern of the electrocution wound can raise concern for a possible homicidal manner of death. We are reporting an unusual case wherein the dead body of a middle‐aged man was found lying in a suspicious condition on the roadside of desolated area. There were circumferential, grooved electrocution lesions over the left and right second toes with oval electrocution lesions on the medial aspects of both the left and right third toes. There were split lacerations over the right high parietal region, right pinna, and forehead. There was avulsion of the nail of the left thumb. Pressure abrasion was consistent with a ligature mark on the lower part of the left leg. The locations and pattern of these injuries raised the possibility of torture infliction. Death was attributed to electrocution, which was confirmed by histopathology. Autopsy findings and possible inferences were furnished to the police. This case highlights the careful observation of different characterizations and locations of the wounds and deducing inferences about the possible manner of death. This information can be useful to investigating agencies.
Moving policies toward racial and ethnic equality: The case of the supplemental nutrition assistance program*
Authors: Flores‐Lagunes Alfonso , Jales Hugo B. , Liu Judith , Wilson Norbert L.
Published: May 2023

We analyze the role played by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in alleviating or exacerbating inequality across racial and ethnic groups in food expenditures and in the resources needed to meet basic food needs (the “food resource gap”). To do this, we propose a simple framework that decomposes differences across groups in SNAP benefit transfer levels into three components: eligibility, participation, and generosity. This decomposition is then linked to differences in food expenditures and the food resource gap. Our results reveal that among the three components, differences in eligibility contribute the most to SNAP benefits differentials for Black and Hispanic households relative to White households. Given that SNAP is often a target of policy changes, we employ the framework to provide counterfactual analyses of how selected SNAP policy changes can impact group differences in benefits and, ultimately, disparities in food expenditures and the food resource gap. The proposed framework can be applied to analyze other safety net programs.
Anatomical endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography simulator using moulded meshed silicone: A novel simulator pilot study
Authors: Brodaric Alen Maximillian , Wong Ngar Lok Joshua , Falon Jessica , Wong Jean , Cheng Kai , Whereat Sarah , Storey David
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio‐pancreatography (ERCP) has higher rates of morbidity and mortality compared to upper or lower gastrointestinal tract endoscopy. The availability of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography means ERCP is usually performed for therapeutic purposes. Simulation could provide an adjunct to patient‐based training in ERCP however models to date have been unconvincing.

Methods

This ERCP simulation model was constructed from moulded meshed silicone by co‐designers: Jean Wong and Kai Cheng. The anatomical orientation was based on a combination of anatomical specimens, sectional atlases, and the clinical experience of expert endoscopists.

Results

From March to October 2022, we recruited 5 surgeons/gastroenterologists to the expert group and 14 medical students, junior doctors, or surgical/gastroenterological trainees to the novice group. Most experts either agreed or strongly agreed that the simulation anatomy appearance (100%), anatomical orientation (83%), tactile feedback (66%), traversal actions (67%), cannula positioning (66%) and papilla cannulation (67%) resembled the procedure in humans. Experts statistically significantly outperformed novices in obtaining a cannulating position (80% vs. 14%, P = 0.006) and successful papilla cannulation (80% vs. 7%, P = 0.0015) on their first attempt. The novice group had statistically significant improvements in time to obtaining a cannulating position (3.53 vs. 11.5 min, P = 0.006) and passing the duodenoscope to the papilla (2.55 vs. 4 passes, P = 0.009).

Conclusions

The simulator showed statistically significant results in face, content, and construct validity. A follow‐up validation study should recruit participants across multiple institutions. External validity could be assessed by comparing expert proceduralist simulator performance against clinical ERCP performance.
Perioperative anaphylaxis management and testing: a quaternary centre audit
Authors: Lipszyc Adam , Tran Robyn , Scott David A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life‐threatening generalized or systemic hypersensitivity reaction. Sequential reports have cited anaphylaxis as the most common cause of anaesthesia‐related deaths. We undertook an audit at a quaternary centre, examining the management of perioperative anaphylaxis and quality of referrals made to our anaesthesia allergy testing service.

Methods

The data of 41 patients consulted at St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne for perioperative anaphylaxis between 17th of January 2020 and 20th of January 2022 were analysed. Intervention outcomes included total intravenous fluid administered, adrenaline administration, instigation of CPR and the collection and the timing of serum tryptase samples. We also assessed referral quality, provision of institutional allergy alert and time elapsed from the anaphylaxis event to allergy testing. Contemporaneous Australian and New Zealand Anaesthetic Allergy Group (ANZAAG) guidelines were used as the reference standard for most outcomes.

Results

Our data reveals compliance of <80% with respect to intravenous fluid administration, referral quality and tryptase sampling, particularly at the 4‐h timepoint.

Conclusion

Surgical leadership and patient advocacy in the post‐acute phase would likely facilitate requisite testing and improve the quality of counselling. We recommend institutions adopt a case‐by‐case review of management compliance with recommendations. Additionally, we advocate for the inclusion of a prompt to the ANZAAG referral form, that encourages the operator to update their patient's institutional allergy alert while awaiting allergy testing.
Long‐term results of cataract surgery in type 2 diabetics, a 20‐year prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Mönestam Eva I.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To investigate the 20‐year outcome, in best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and subjective visual function (VF‐questionnaire, VF‐14) after cataract surgery in type 2 diabetics, compared with non‐diabetics.

Methods

109 type 2 diabetics and 698 non‐diabetics, who had cataract surgery during 1 year at one institution, were included in this prospective, longitudinal, population‐based cohort study. BCVA and VF‐14 responses were recorded pre‐ and postoperatively, and every 5 years up to 20 years after surgery. Retinopathy was graded before surgery.

Results

There was no significant difference between diabetics and non‐diabetics, in change in BCVA from 10 years or more after surgery, p = 0.45, p = 0.44 and p = 0.83, at 10, 15 and 20 years, respectively, as well as in self‐perceived visual function (VF‐14) at any time after surgery, p = 0.72, p = 0.20 and p = 0.78, 10–20 years, respectively.

At any follow‐up, there was no significant difference in BCVA in relation to retinopathy level before surgery, p = 0.1 at 20 years. There was a trend from 10 years after surgery and onward that patients with no retinopathy at baseline lost fewer letters during the 20 years than diabetics with retinopathy. Patients with known type 2 diabetes at surgery had a significantly lower survival compared with the non‐diabetics at each follow‐up, p = 0.003.

Conclusion

In surviving diabetics, BCVA and subjective visual function were retained in most cases up to 20 years after cataract surgery. Cataract extraction is effective in causing a sustainable improvement in visual function also in type 2 diabetics. Knowledge of these long‐term outcomes is essential when counselling diabetics for cataract surgery.
Finding Ophthalmic Risk and Evaluating the Value of Eye exams and their predictive Reliability (FOREVER)—A cohort study in a Danish high street optician setting: Design and methodology
Authors: Freiberg Josefine , Rovelt Jens , Gazzard Gus , la Cour Morten , Kolko Miriam ,   the FOREVER Consortium
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to describe the rationale and design of Project FOREVER (Finding Ophthalmic Risk and Evaluating the Value of Eye exams and their predictive Reliability).

Design

Project FOREVER will build a comprehensive database of clinical eye and vision data collected from ~280 000 adults at 100 optician stores across Denmark. The FOREVER database (FOREVERdb) includes detailed data from refraction, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, corneal thickness, visual field assessments and retinal fundus images. Linkage to the comprehensive Danish national registries with, that is diagnostic and prescribing data permits investigation of rare associations and risk factors. 30 000 individuals over 50 also provide a saliva sample for later genetic studies and blood pressure measurements. Of these 30 000, 10 000 will also get optical coherence tomography (OCT) nerve and retinal scans. This subpopulation data is reviewed by ophthalmologists for disease detection. All participants will be asked to complete a questionnaire assessing lifestyle, self‐perceived eye health and general health. Enrolment of participants began in April 2022.

Perspective

The FOREVERdb is a powerful tool to answer a wide range of research questions that can pave the way for better eye health. This database will provide valuable insights for future studies investigating the correlations between eye and general health in a Danish population cohort, enabling research to identify potential risk factors for a range of diseases.
Patterns of problematic cannabis use in Canada pre‐ and post‐legalisation: Differences by neighbourhood deprivation, individual socioeconomic factors and race/ethnicity
Authors: Fataar Fathima , Driezen Pete , Owusu‐Bempah Akwasi , Hammond David
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The legalisation of cannabis in Canada in 2018, and subsequent increase in prevalence of use, has generated interest in understanding potential changes in problematic patterns of use, including by socio‐demographic factors such as race/ethnicity and neighbourhood deprivation level.

Methods

This study used repeat cross‐sectional data from three waves of the International Cannabis Policy Study web‐based survey. Data were collected from respondents aged 16–65 prior to cannabis legalisation in 2018 (n = 8704), and post‐legalisation in 2019 (n = 12,236) and 2020 (n = 12,815). Respondents' postal codes were linked to the INSPQ neighbourhood deprivation index. Multinomial regression models examined differences in problematic use by socio‐demographic and socio‐economic factors and over time.

Results

No evidence of a change in the proportion of those aged 16–65 in Canada whose cannabis use would be classified as ‘high risk’ was noted from before cannabis legalisation (2018 = 1.5%) to 12 or 24 months after legalisation (2019 = 1.5%, 2020 = 1.6%; F = 0.17, p = 0.96). Problematic use differed by socio‐demographic factors. For example, consumers from the most materially deprived neighbourhoods were more likely to experience ‘moderate’ vs ‘low risk’ compared to those living outside deprived neighbourhoods (p < 0.01 for all). Results were mixed for race/ethnicity and comparisons for high risk were limited by small sample sizes for some groups. Differences across subgroups were consistent from 2018 to 2020.

Discussion and Conclusions

The risk of problematic cannabis use does not appear to have increased in the 2 years following cannabis legalisation in Canada. Disparities in problematic use persisted, with some racial minority and marginalised groups experiencing higher risk.
A rare case of retro‐hepatic inferior vena caval leiomyosarcoma – Computed tomography, surgical and intraoperative echocardiography imaging
Authors: Raj Vipin , Babu Saravana , Kumar Dash Prasanta , Sukesan Subin , Pitchai Shivanesan
Published: May 2023

Leiomyosarcoma of retro‐hepatic portion of inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare vascular tumor with poor prognosis if adequate surgical resection is not achieved. Surgical repair includes dissection of the tumor and reconstruction of the IVC with a tube graft. Establishing a normal flow and gradient in IVC and hepatic veins is imperative for a successful repair. We report a case of retro hepatic IVC leiomyosarcoma where the preoperative computed tomography described the anatomy and extension of the tumor whereas intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography helped in the assessment of adequacy of surgical repair.
Flow and plankton availability control young‐of‐the‐year fish diet in two floodplain nurseries
Authors: Marle Pierre , Simon Laurent , Rigal Amandine , Guicharnaud Chloé , Gauthier Paul , Garcia Noéline , Castella Emmanuel , Mayor Hélène , Slaveykova Vera I. , Olivier Jean‐Michel
Published: May 2023

In large river floodplains, the availability of trophic resources to the fish fauna is highly variable as a consequence of seasonal environmental change and habitat diversity. Young‐of‐the‐year fishes (YOY) must find suitable habitats to settle, feed and survive. However, very few in‐depth studies are available about the food preferences of the young fishes during their first growing season. Here, we investigated the composition of planktonic assemblages and the YOY diet of three generalist fish species Alburnus alburnus (Linnaeus, 1758), Squalius cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Pseudorasbora parva (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846) from four floodplain sites of the French Upper Rhône River. More specifically, we studied their temporal and spatial variations in relation to five environmental variables: hydrology, dissolved oxygen, primary production, water temperature and conductivity. Stable flow conditions and the associated temperature and conductivity strongly structured the phytoplankton community in the floodplain channels, whereas water movements within channels and dissolved oxygen concentrations were significantly correlated to the zooplankton composition. A zooplankton density above ≈100 ind L−1 allowed the initiation of a YOY diet mainly based upon zooplankton for the three fish species. When zooplankton densities were insufficient, all three species used phytoplankton as their main food resource. Finally, the diet overlaps between species, differed significantly between sites. The study highlights the need to examine the diet of juvenile fishes and environmental variables in the floodplains.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with steroid‐refractory acute graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Leeneman Brenda , Blommestein Hedwig M. , van Dongen‐Leunis Annemieke , Algeri Mattia , Fibbe Willem E. , Oosten Liesbeth , Uyl‐de Groot Carin A. , Thielen Frederick W.
Published: May 2023

Background

Evidence regarding health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with steroid‐refractory acute graft‐versus‐host disease (SR‐aGvHD) is lacking. Evaluating HRQoL was a secondary objective of the HOVON 113 MSC trial. Here we describe the outcomes of the EQ‐5D‐5L, EORTC QLQ‐C30, and FACT‐BMT for all adult patients who completed these questionnaires at baseline (i.e., before the start of treatment; n = 26).

Methods

Descriptive statistics were used to describe baseline patient and disease characteristics, EQ‐5D dimension scores and values, EQ VAS scores, EORTC QLQ‐C30 scale/item and summary scores, and FACT‐BMT subscale and total scores.

Results

The mean EQ‐5D value was 0.36. In total, 96% of the patients reported problems with usual activities, 92% with pain/discomfort, 84% with mobility, 80% with self‐care, and 72% with anxiety/depression. The mean EORTC QLQ‐C30 summary score was 43.50. Mean scale/item scores ranged from 21.79 to 60.00 for functioning scales, from 39.74 to 75.21 for symptom scales, and from 5.33 to 91.67 for single items. The mean FACT‐BMT total score was 75.31. Mean subscale scores ranged from 10.09 for physical well‐being to 23.94 for social/family well‐being.

Conclusion

Our study showed that HRQoL in patients with SR‐aGvHD is poor. Improving HRQoL and symptom management in these patients should be a top priority.
European Parliament and representation of the Union's citizens: What can be expected from electoral law from a democratic standpoint?
Authors: Pascua Mateo Fabio
Published: May 2023

In some Member States, doctrine and case law of national courts have highlighted that, under currently applicable European electoral law, elections to the EP are of a second‐order, whereby European issues give way to purely domestic ones. In any event, this does not hinder the position of the EP as a genuine legislative chamber, which, above all, demands effects from electoral law that it cannot provide, since the intensity with which an election is experienced depends on circumstances external to the system itself. What electoral law can guarantee instead is the periodic holding of free elections. And that requires ensuring that the EP is appointed by the free expression of the opinion of all (and only) European citizens; that the weight of the vote is determined by rational criteria; that the electoral formula allows access to significant political currents; and that the “rule of law” is respected in the electoral process.
In conversation with Lori Passmore
Authors: Dhillon Paraminder , Skourti Eleni , Passmore Lori A.
Published: May 2023

Lori Passmore is a Group Leader at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (MRC‐LMB). She studied Biochemistry at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver (Canada), before moving to the UK in 1999 for a PhD at the Institute of Cancer Research. After completing her PhD, Lori moved to Cambridge, where she became a Post‐Doctoral Fellow at the MRC‐LMB. In 2009, Lori started her own group at the MRC‐LMB and was subsequently awarded an ERC Starting Grant (2011), an ERC Consolidator Grant (2017) and a Wellcome Discovery Award (2023). She was also elected into the EMBO Young Investigator Programme (2015) and EMBO Membership (2018). Lori's research focusses on the determination of the structures of protein complexes that regulate gene expression, using primarily cryo‐electron microscopy and in vitro assays. Her work has contributed significantly to our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of cellular processes, giving insights into human physiology and disease. In this interview, Lori provides an overview of her research and discusses current challenges in the field, recalls the key events and collaborations that have helped shape her successful research career and offers advice to early career scientists.
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome after levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine device placement—Case report
Authors: Sun Ruiqing L. , Chhabra Arun , Patel Anand , Shaltoni Hashem
Published: May 2023

Background

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a disease characterized by reversible multifocal narrowing of the cerebral arteries with clinical manifestations that typically include thunderclap headache and occasionally brain edema, stroke, or seizure. The exact pathophysiology of RCVS is not well known.

Case

A 46‐year‐old female with history of episodic migraine presented with 1‐month duration of worsening headaches that had become more severe over the past 2 weeks. The headaches were episodic and thunderclap in onset and aggravated by physical exertion or emotional situations. A neurological examination was unremarkable including initial head computed tomography (CT). A CT angiogram of the head showed multifocal stenosis in the right anterior cerebral artery, bilateral middle cerebral arteries, and right posterior cerebral artery. Cerebral angiogram confirmed the CT angiogram findings. A repeated CT angiogram a few days later showed improvement in the multifocal cerebral arterial stenosis. Lumbar puncture and autoimmune workup were not suggestive of neuroinflammatory etiology. She had one generalized tonic–clonic seizure during her second day of hospitalization. The patient's thunderclap onset headaches resolved in 1 week after she was managed with blood pressure control and pain medication. She denied any illicit drug use or any new medications other than the placement of a levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine device (IUD) about 6 weeks prior to her presentation.

Conclusions

Our case suggests a possible link between RCVS and levonorgestrel‐releasing IUDs.
A review on high entropy silicides and silicates: Fundamental aspects, synthesis, properties
Authors: Salian Ashritha , Sengupta Pradyut , Vishalakshi Aswath Iteesha , Gowda Avinash , Mandal Saumen
Published: May 2023

Metal silicides and silicates belong to the silicon‐based non‐oxide and oxide ceramics family with exceptional properties. Silicides face fatal oxidation at low temperatures and intrinsic brittleness, whereas silicates face instability in phase at high temperatures which restricts its usage in vast engineering applications. Hence, the ceramic community introduced the concept of high entropy in metal silicides and silicates. Since 2019, high entropy silicides and silicates, a multicomponent system, have created new avenues for materials discovery and design. High entropy silicides displayed elevated properties than the traditional silicides aiming its applications in microelectronic, high‐temperature oxidation resistance coatings, and structural materials. Similarly, high entropy silicates displayed improved properties than the traditional silicates making them the most promising materials for environmental and thermal barrier coating applications for hot section components in gas turbines. The review focuses on specific case studies to emphasize the latest research and developments in high entropy silicides and silicates. Synthesis approaches employed in developing high entropy silicides and silicates and their structural and microstructural outcomes are addressed. The possible application is predicted based on the overview of the properties explored to date. The review concludes with future possibilities offered by the high entropy silicides and silicates.
Skin cancer incidence in transgender individuals receiving gender‐affirming hormone treatment: a nationwide cohort study in the Netherlands
Authors: Rahmat Amirun , De Nie Iris , Wiepjes Chantal M. , Den Heijer Martin , Rustemeyer Thomas , De Blok Christel J. M. , Dreijerink Koen M. A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Development of skin cancer, in particular melanoma, has been linked to sex hormones. We aimed to determine the incidence of skin cancer in transgender individuals receiving gender‐affirming hormone treatment (GAHT).

Methods

In this nationwide retrospective cohort study, clinical information of participants who visited our clinic between (the years) 1972 and 2018 and received GAHT was integrated with national pathology and cancer statistics data in order to assess skin cancer incidence. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated.

Results

The cohort consisted of 2,436 trans women and 1,444 trans men. The median age at the start of GAHT was 31 years (IQR 24–42) in trans women and 24 years (IQR 20–32) in trans men. The median follow‐up time for trans women was 8 years (IQR 3–18) with a total follow‐up time of 29,152 years and 4 years (IQR 2–12) with a total follow‐up time of 12,469 years for trans men. Eight trans women were diagnosed with melanoma (SIR 1.80 [95% CI 0.83–3.41] vs. all men; SIR 1.40 [0.65–2.65] vs. all women), and seven developed squamous cell carcinoma (SIR 0.78 [0.34–1.55] vs. all men; SIR 1.15 [0.50–2.27] vs. all women). Two trans men developed melanoma (SIR 1.05 [0.18–3.47] vs. all men; SIR 0.77 [0.14‐2.70] vs. all women).

Conclusions

GAHT did not appear to affect skin cancer incidence in this large cohort of transgender individuals. As skin cancer incidence increases with age and the proportion of elderly subjects is currently limited in this cohort, it will be worthwhile to repeat this analysis in the future.
Genotypic responses of rice to alternate wetting and drying irrigation in the Mekong Delta
Authors: Johnson Kristian , Vo Thuong Ti Bach , Van Nha Duong , Asch Folkard
Published: May 2023

In the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD), alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in rice (Oryza sativa L.) production during the dry season has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emission and freshwater use. However, its effect on yield compared with continuously flooded systems can vary. To evaluate the effect of AWD on yield and yield‐forming processes on genotypes commonly grown in the VMD, field trials over two consecutive dry seasons were conducted at the Loc Troi Group's agricultural research station in the VMD. We observed a significant yield reduction, 7% on average, across all varieties grown under AWD. Analysis of yield components showed that under AWD, genotypes on average produced more tillers, but fewer spikelets, suffered greater spikelet sterility and had a lower 1000 grain weight. The size of this effect differed between dry seasons. Accordingly, we were able to identify and characterize genotypes better suited to AWD. We also could relate shifts in sink‐source relationships to the overlap of drying events and key phenological stages other than flowering. Our study shows how successful implementation of AWD requires adaptation to both environment and genotype.