bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic policy uncertainty and spillovers in selected emerging market economies: time- and frequency-domain approach
Authors: Adjei Abigail Naa Korkor , Tweneboah George , Owusu Junior Peterson
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the amount and direction of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) spillover among six emerging market economies (EMEs), and to also ascertain arguments on the increased volatilities of uncertainty in most EMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a recent methodology developed by Baruník and Krehlík’s (2018) methodology to measure pairwise, composite and net spillover. This methodology helps investigate the size and direction of EPU spillover in EMEs. The unique feature of this methodology is its ability to capture frequency domain as well as time-frequency dynamics.

Findings

Inter-country static spillover connectedness among the EPU of the selected EMEs show that Korea-EPU is the main transmitter and recipient of spillover shocks among the EMEs across all frequency bands. The findings from this study also show evidence of spillover between EPU, GDP and SPX across the EMEs. The time-varying total spillover index analysis shows evidence of overall connectedness across the selected EMEs. Overall connectedness is highest in the short term. We document that global economic and financial events intensify the volatility of the total spillover across the selected EMEs.

Originality/value

This study extends the literature on studies conducted on EMEs as studies on EPU spillover has mainly focused on advanced economies. To address the limitation of previous empirical studies that were unable to address the amount and direction of spillover from a country to other countries, this study offers new insight on country-specific spillover amounts and causal patterns “to” and “from” the selected EMEs. The findings throw more light on the network connectedness across EMEs and hence aids investors to undertake precise investment decisions and intelligently plan their portfolio diversification strategies. We then introduce two new variables to the analysis and record evidence of high connectedness between EPU, gross domestic product and share price index in all the frequency bands.
Private firms’ portfolio expansion responses to (in)consistent performance feedback
Authors: Kotiloglu Serhan , Blettner Daniela , Lechler Thomas
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Performance feedback can be constructed using firms’ own (historical) performance, or the performance of peers (social). Those two types of performance feedback can be consistent (both positive, both negative) or inconsistent (one positive, the other negative). The research on the impact of consistent versus inconsistent feedback has been inconclusive, suggesting that inconsistent feedback might lead to more intense or less intense responses, or no response. In this paper, we theorize and test how firms respond to (in)consistent performance feedback.

Design/methodology/approach

We test our hypotheses on a longitudinal sample of 2,819 private, high-growth firms in the US with 6,688 observations between the years 2007 and 2016. Our dataset comprises 25 different industries. We use topic modeling on textual data from firms’ web pages to capture portfolio expansion.

Findings

We find that consistent negative performance feedback strengthens portfolio expansion, but consistent positive feedback does not influence portfolio expansion. We also find that inconsistent performance feedback weakens portfolio expansion, but only with negative historical feedback and positive social feedback.

Originality/value

We contribute to the Behavioral Theory of the Firm by improving our understanding of mechanisms of feedback configurations. Specifically, we elaborate on the role of (in)consistent social feedback when firms respond to historical performance feedback. We also contribute to the theory by better understanding private firms’ responses to performance feedback.
Understanding physicians' adoption intentions to use Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems in developing countries: an extended TRAM approach
Authors: Khashan Mohamed A. , Alasker Thamir Hamad , Ghonim Mohamed A. , Elsotouhy Mohamed M.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The success of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system is determined by the numerous facilitators and obstacles that influence physicians' intentions toward using these technologies. This study examines physicians' intentions to use EHR by applying the extended technology readiness and acceptance model (TRAM) factors, the result demonstrability, colleagues' opinions, perception of external control, and organizational support.

Design/methodology/approach

Convenience sampling was used to collect data from physicians in Egypt (n = 520). To evaluate the model's hypotheses, this study used the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method with WarpPLS.7.

Findings

The results revealed that positive TR factors (innovativeness and optimism) positively affect perceived usefulness and ease of use, while negative TR factors (discomfort and insecurity) negatively impact perceived usefulness and ease of use. Furthermore, the result demonstrability and colleagues' opinions positively influence perceived usefulness, while the perception of external control and organizational support positively influence perceived ease of use. In addition, significant relationships between perceived ease of use and usefulness and adoption intention were identified.

Originality/value

This is the first study to apply the TRAM to understand physicians' adoption intentions to use EHR systems. Moreover, this study determined the different roles of positive and negative TR affecting physicians' cognition regarding using EHR systems.
Imperial imprints: unraveling the spatial tapestry of 17th-century colonial port cities in India for sustainable urban development
Authors: Chakraborty Shilpi , Ji Shiva
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study delves into 17th-century colonial port cities – Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta – examining the impact of British imperialism on urban sustainability and heritage conservation. It explores historical development, spatial organization, and connectivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study intricately explores the interplay among urban sustainability, morphology, and heritage conservation using space syntax analysis. It focuses on examining White and Black Town dispersion during British imperialism.

Findings

The investigation reveals varying degrees of dispersion of White and Black Towns, with Calcutta exhibiting the most consistent distribution among the three cities. These findings underscore the profound influence of British imperialism on the spatial organization of colonial port cities, offering valuable insights into their historical evolution and layout.

Research limitations/implications

While this study provides valuable insights, it is limited by its focus on the colonial period and the specific cities of Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta. The findings may not be directly generalizable to other contexts or time periods. Additionally, the study’s reliance on historical data sources may present data accuracy and completeness challenges.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding colonial port cities, guiding sustainable urban development, heritage preservation, and equitable resource access for global sustainability. By focusing on the historical impact of British imperialism, the research provides original insights into the spatial dynamics of these cities, contributing to the broader discourse on urban sustainability and heritage conservation.
Solving the IPO puzzle through “use of proceeds” disclosure: evidence from India
Authors: Wadhwa Sukanya , Sahoo Seshadev
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of disclosure on the unsolved initial public offering (IPO) puzzle. For this purpose, the authors analyzed the impact of the primary uses of the proceeds disclosed in a firm's IPO prospectus on underpricing, prelisting performance, postlisting underperformance and operating performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Indian public firms that went public between March 31, 2010, and March 31, 2020. A multivariate regression technique was used to study the impact of the primary uses of proceeds on underpricing, prelisting performance and postlisting underperformance, whereas a quantile regression technique was used to study their impact on operating performance.

Findings

The authors found that the primary use of proceeds disclosure helps predict underpricing and returns to the investor only until day 60 postlisting; beyond that, they provide no further insights into the firm's performance. Firms with lower and average operating performance should not state the general corporate purposes and payment on borrowings, respectively, as their primary use of proceeds, as it leads to a decline in their operating performance.

Research limitations/implications

Results might suffer from the potential endogeneity problem due to selection bias. This research focuses on India only, which makes generalization of results for other economies difficult. Future research may extend the post-IPO period and include more developing economies. Furthermore, future studies can draw comparisons between developed and developing nations' disclosures of using proceeds.

Practical implications

This study will help the firms going public in India better disclose the use of proceeds based on their characteristics. Stating future acquisitions, payments on borrowings and working capital reduces the uncertainty, and therefore, these are feasible avenues for investing proceeds raised through IPO.

Originality/value

The authors used ten categories for the primary use of proceeds disclosure, whereas previous studies have used only five to six categories. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study was the first to use underpricing, postlisting performance and operating performance in a single study. These measures gave a more holistic view of the use of proceeds disclosure.
Sustainable infrastructure development in sub-nations of Nigeria: what alternative financing options are open amidst constrained budget?
Authors: Anago Jude Chidiebere
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the alternative financing available for sustainable infrastructure development in Nigeria’s sub-nations. Specifically, the study question is: what financial vehicles do sub-nations seek most, and what are the underlying reasons for their preferences?

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a two-round Delphi method, using a questionnaire to gather data from high-ranking government officials in states that have localised sustainable development projects in Nigeria.

Findings

Results show that fundamental to sub-national sustainable infrastructure projects are federal allocations, pension funds, private equity, bonds and concessionary grants. Sub-nationals prefer these options, especially the emphasis on private equity, and the concessional funding through catalytic or blended finance because of their relatively lower or below-market interest rates.

Practical implications

The practical significance of this study is that the state’s policymakers can now identify appropriate strategies that enhance the shift towards these sustainable financing options, which will serve as a key catalyst in their 2030 and beyond vision to accelerate their state's infrastructure climate complaint. Equally, investors possessing funds with such attributes will gain an understanding of a prospective market within Nigeria’s sub-nation.

Social implications

This study aims to improve the development of sustainable infrastructure in Nigeria’s sub-nations, which would have a beneficial effect on society by mitigating the effects of climate change.

Originality/value

The recommendations of this study can contribute to the development of innovative financial models for sub-national infrastructure development, thereby reducing reliance on revenue generated from fossil fuels.
Adapting to the skies: evolution of qualified personnel in airline operations amid technological advancements
Authors: Akpur Akın
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the evolution of skilled personnel in airline operations driven by technological advancements. It aims to elucidate the changing personnel demands necessitated by technological innovations in the ground and flight services.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact of technological advancements on aviation services has been broadly outlined. Secondary sources were used to identify the relationship between technology and human resources in aviation and categorize the current situation. However, the main narrative was based on the author’s observations.

Findings

The progression of technology in air transportation has led to a reduction in the number of personnel involved and the time spent on human interactions. Technological advancements in aviation have predominantly affected three crucial domains: back offices, ground services, and flight services. A future trend foresees a substantial shift toward self-service in ground services, contributing to streamlined processes with minimal errors.

Practical implications

Airlines must consider candidates' ability to adapt to technological changes during the hiring process to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The current staff should be supported by training programs to facilitate their adaptation to technology.

Social implications

This study provides a theoretical framework regarding changes in personnel requirements due to technological applications in aviation, the integration of technology into the sector, and the adaptation of current personnel to these technologies.

Originality/value

This perspective resonates with scholars engaged in the realms of aviation and tourism. This study assesses technological progress from both managerial and customer perspectives.
Utility of 3D modelling of the patient's living environment as perceived by occupational therapists
Authors: Guay Manon , Auger Claudine , Séguin‐Tremblay Noémie , Michaud François , Labbé Mathieu , Chevalier Natalie , Plante Michelle , Polgar Janice
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Visiting a patient's living environment is important for occupational therapists, albeit costly and time consuming. MapIt is a mobile app producing a 3D representation of a home with the possibility of taking measurements. The purpose of this study was to explore the utility of a 3D representation of a patient's home for the clinical practice of occupational therapists.

Methods

Case study in which the unit of analysis was the utility of MapIt as defined by ISO 9241‐11:2018 and as perceived by occupational therapists in four different occupational therapy clinical settings (Canada). Onsite observations with 10 occupational therapists (and their patients) were triangulated with data from interviews, diaries, and logbooks. Inductive thematic condensation led to emerging conclusions for each clinical setting, fuelling the next case data collection and analysis. Inter‐case analysis was corroborated by additional occupational therapists, through crowdsourcing and expert review.

Results

Occupational therapists' clinical reasoning was supported by the MapIt app, enhancing and streamlining their work and inducing adjustments to treatment plans. Occupational therapists saw and measured the patient's environment remotely, to better match person‐environment‐occupation and promote occupational engagement. MapIt's 3D representations were judged useful to communicate between occupational therapists and stakeholders, to educate, allow continuity, optimise resources, minimise the patient's time on a waitlist for homecare, and save time for everyone.

Discussion

MapIt allowed occupational therapists who performed home visits to bring a little of the patients' home to their office, whereas occupational therapists without access to the home could see it and take measurements. MapIt's utility was confirmed for practice in clinical settings and for better continuity of care between settings.

Conclusion

MapIt makes it possible for occupational therapists to ‘walk around’ the patient's home remotely, but the possibility of measuring environmental elements is a 3D model's true added value over currently used photos or short videos.
“Just forget about it and move on”: Stillbirth ruptured and repaired narratives beyond expectant futures
Authors: Eilat Shvat
Published: June 2024

The critical sociological literature has explored social prescriptions on women’s reproductive lives, trajectories, outcomes and aftermaths. However, little attention has been given to how these prescriptions are expressed through temporal negotiations. This article delves into the narratives of Jewish‐Israeli women who have experienced stillbirths. In their narratives, these women contest expectations directed towards them in interactions with professionals, family and friends. Within these expectations, a form of dictation over their future comes into being, where a new pregnancy should quickly precede the stillbirth. The focus here lies on how these women navigate and contest these temporal expectations, carving out space for stillbirth as a meaningful and painful event that should be granted attention and for alternative forms of remembering their stillborn and caring for them after their death. They reshape their narratives through what I call "thickening a present tense" and extend care to the stillborn in the aftermath of the stillbirth. This work contributes to scholarly inquiries into reproductive life and probing time as a socially prescribed mechanism for the value and social distribution of care.
Study on the interaction mechanism of whey protein isolate with phosphatidylcholine: By multispectral methods and molecular docking
Authors: Ma Ming‐Yang , Wu Fei‐Yang , Xu Yun‐Peng , Mu Guang‐Qing , Qian Fang , Zhu Xue‐Mei
Published: June 2024

The elucidation of the interaction mechanism between phospholipids and milk proteins within emulsions is pivotal for comprehending the properties of infant formula fat globules. In this study, multispectral methods and molecular docking were employed to explore the relationship between phosphatidylcholine (PC) and whey protein isolate (WPI). Observations indicate that the binding constant, alongside thermodynamic parameters, diminishes as temperature ascends, hinting at a predominantly static quenching mechanism. Predominantly, van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds constitute the core interactions between WPI and PC. This assertion is further substantiated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which verifies PC's influence on WPI's secondary structure. A detailed assessment of thermodynamic parameters coupled with molecular docking reveals that PC predominantly adheres to specific sites within α‐lactalbumin, β‐lactoglobulin, and bovine serum albumin, propelled by a synergy of hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals forces, with binding energies noted at −5.59, −6.71, and −7.85 kcal/mol, respectively. An increment in PC concentration is observed to amplify the emulsification properties of WPI whilst concurrently diminishing the zeta potential. This study establishes a theoretical foundation for applying the PC–WPI interaction mechanism in food.
Exploring clinical features and therapeutic outcomes in Indian children with mixed connective tissue disease: A multicenter study
Authors: Guha Suparna , Suri Deepti , Balan Suma , Janarthanan Mahesh , Agarwal Manjari , Viswanathan Vijay , Gupta Aman , Hazarika Rashna Dass , Gummadi Anjani , Sudhakar Murugan , Pal Samar Ranjan , Raghuram Jyothi , Rao Anand Prahalad , Singh Neha , Aggarwal Amita , Bhattad Sagar
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a rare entity in children. There is a paucity of studies on juvenile‐onset MCTD (jMCTD) worldwide especially from Southeast Asia.

Objectives

To describe clinical and laboratory features of jMCTD diagnosed at pediatric rheumatology centers across India.

Methods

A predesigned detailed case proforma in an excel format was prepared and was sent to all the Pediatric Rheumatology centers in India. Eleven centers provided the clinical and laboratory data of their jMCTD patients, which was then compiled and analyzed in detail.

Results

Thirty‐one jMCTD patients from 11 centers were included in the study. Our cohort had 27 females and four male patients over 12 months (August 2021 to July 2022). The median age at presentation was 12 years (range 5–18 years) and the median duration of symptoms was 24 months at diagnosis (range 2–96 months). The common features included arthritis (90%), malar rash (70.9%), and Raynaud's phenomenon (70.9%). At a mean follow‐up of 43 months (range 1–168 months), 45% of them were in remission. There were two deaths reported, due to macrophage activation syndrome and sepsis respectively.

Conclusion

We present the largest multicenter experience on jMCTD from the Indian subcontinent. The study's findings serve as a crucial stepping stone toward unraveling the complexities of jMCTD and improving patient care and management strategies.
Causal relationships between immune cell phenotypes and lung adenocarcinoma: A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Bowen , Huang Zhicheng , Wang Yadong , Guo Chao , Liang Naixin , Yang Huaxia , Li Shanqing
Published: June 2024

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common type of lung cancer and closely associated with the immune system. Emerging evidence suggests that blood immune cell phenotypes in patients with LUAD may undergo alterations. Nevertheless, the limited amount of relevant research makes it difficult to understand the causal links between LUAD and changes in the immune cells. This study aimed to reveal the potential causal relationships between 731 immune cell phenotypes and LUAD.

Methods

A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was used to clarify causal relationships. Four types of immune phenotypes, absolute cell counts, relative cell counts, median fluorescence intensities (MFIs) of surface antigens, and morphological parameters, were investigated in this study. Heterogeneity tests, horizontal pleiotropy tests, and leave‐one‐out analyses were performed to validate the reliability of our study.

Results

A total of 26 immune cell characteristics were identified as contributing to the occurrence of LUAD. Memory B cells, IgD−CD38br cells, CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DCs) may play a role in the development of LUAD. Through reverse MR, our study discovered that the presence of LUAD also induced changes in the expression levels of 16 immune cell traits involving specific surface markers and various types of immune cells, some of which pertain to antigen presentation and immune activation processes.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated causal links between several immune cell phenotypes and LUAD, thereby providing indications of the potentially oncogenic physiological state and early screening biomarkers for future research.
Perioperative association between c‐reactive protein, pain catastrophizing and acute pain after total knee arthroplasty: A secondary analysis of two randomised trials
Authors: Springborg Anders H. , Kehlet Henrik , Nielsen Niklas I. , Gromov Kirill , Troelsen Anders , Varnum Claus , Foss Nicolai B.
Published: June 2024

Background

Total knee arthroplasty is associated with an inflammatory response and high levels of pain in a subset of patients. Pain catastrophizing has been associated with acute postoperative pain. The association between these variables has not been investigated in an optimised fast‐track setup including preoperative glucocorticoids. The aim of this study was, first, to investigate the correlation between the increase in postoperative c‐reactive protein (CRP) and acute postoperative pain after total knee arthroplasty, and second, to investigate the correlation between the increase in CRP and preoperative pain catastrophizing.

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis of data from 119 patients participating in two randomised controlled trials. Correlation analyses were performed for preoperative CRP and CRP increase at 24 and 48 h and pain during a well‐defined mobilisation at 24 and 48 h after total knee arthroplasty. Additionally, correlation analyses were performed between CRP increase and pain catastrophizing using the pain catastrophizing scale.

Results

There was no correlation between preoperative CRP or postoperative CRP increase and pain at both 24 and 48 h. Analyses were similar when separated into high and low pain catastrophizers. There was no correlation between preoperative CRP or postoperative CRP increase and pain catastrophizing.

Conclusion

There was no association between the postoperative CRP response and postoperative acute pain or pain catastrophizing in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty in a well‐defined multimodal fast‐track regime including preoperative glucocorticoids. These results suggest that acute pain after knee arthroplasty is not reflected by CRP when applying preoperative glucocorticoids.
A new gene signature for endothelial senescence identifies self‐RNA sensing by retinoic acid‐inducible gene I as a molecular facilitator of vascular aging
Authors: Guduric‐Fuchs Jasenka , Pedrini Edoardo , Bertelli Pietro M. , McDonnell Shannon , Pathak Varun , McLoughlin Kiran , O'Neill Christina L. , Stitt Alan W. , Medina Reinhold J.
Published: June 2024

The number of senescent vascular endothelial cells increases during aging and their dysfunctional phenotype contributes to age‐related cardiovascular disease. Identification of senescent cells is challenging as molecular changes are often tissue specific and occur amongst clusters of normal cells. Here, we established, benchmarked, and validated a new gene signature called EndoSEN that pinpoints senescent endothelial cells. The EndoSEN signature was enriched for interferon‐stimulated genes (ISG) and correlated with the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP). SASP establishment is classically attributed to DNA damage and cyclic GMP–AMP synthase activation, but our results revealed a pivotal role for RNA accumulation and sensing in senescent endothelial cells. Mechanistically, we showed that endothelial cell senescence hallmarks include self‐RNA accumulation, RNA sensor RIG‐I upregulation, and an ISG signature. Moreover, a virtual model of RIG‐I knockout in endothelial cells underscored senescence as a key pathway regulated by this sensor. We tested and confirmed that RIG‐I knockdown was sufficient to extend the lifespan and decrease the SASP in endothelial cells. Taken together, our evidence suggests that targeting RNA sensing is a potential strategy to delay vascular aging.
Single‐cell mitochondrial sequencing reveals low‐frequency mitochondrial mutations in naturally aging mice
Authors: Liu Fuyan , Sun Xiaolin , Wei Cai , Ji Liu , Song Yali , Yang Chenlu , Wang Yue , Liu Xin , Wang Daqing , Kang Jingmin
Published: June 2024

Mitochondria play a crucial role in numerous biological processes; however, limited methods and research have focused on revealing mitochondrial heterogeneity at the single‐cell level. In this study, we optimized the DNBelab C4 single‐cell ATAC (assay for transposase‐accessible chromatin) sequencing workflow for single‐cell mitochondrial sequencing (C4_mtscATAC‐seq). We validated the effectiveness of our C4_mtscATAC‐seq protocol by sequencing the HEK‐293T cell line with two biological replicates, successfully capturing both mitochondrial content (~68% of total sequencing data) and open chromatin status simultaneously. Subsequently, we applied C4_mtscATAC‐seq to investigate two mouse tissues, spleen and bone marrow, obtained from two mice aged 2 months and two mice aged 23 months. Our findings revealed higher mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content in young tissues compared to more variable mitochondrial content in aged tissues, consistent with higher activity scores of nuclear genes associated with mitochondrial replication and transcription in young tissues. We detected a total of 22, 15, and 21 mtDNA mutations in the young spleen, aged spleen, and bone marrow, respectively, with most variant allele frequencies (VAF) below 1%. Moreover, we observed a higher number of mtDNA mutations with higher VAF in aged tissues compared to young tissues. Importantly, we identified three mtDNA variations (m.9821A>T, m.15219T>C, and m.15984C>T) with the highest VAF in both aged spleen and aged bone marrow. By comparing cells with and without these mtDNA variations, we analyzed differential open chromatin status to identify potential genes associated with these mtDNA variations, including transcription factors such as KLF15 and NRF1. Our study presents an alternative single‐cell mitochondrial sequencing method and provides crude insights into age‐related single‐cell mitochondrial variations.
Rare and common variants associated with alcohol consumption identify a conserved molecular network
Authors: Leger Brittany S. , Meredith John J. , Ideker Trey , Sanchez‐Roige Sandra , Palmer Abraham A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified hundreds of common variants associated with alcohol consumption. In contrast, genetic studies of alcohol consumption that use rare variants are still in their early stages. No prior studies of alcohol consumption have examined whether common and rare variants implicate the same genes and molecular networks, leaving open the possibility that the two approaches might identify distinct biology.

Methods

To address this knowledge gap, we used publicly available alcohol consumption GWAS summary statistics (GSCAN, N = 666,978) and whole exome sequencing data (Genebass, N = 393,099) to identify a set of common and rare variants for alcohol consumption. We used gene‐based analysis to implicate genes from common and rare variant analyses, which we then propagated onto a shared molecular network using a network colocalization procedure.

Results

Gene‐based analysis of each dataset implicated 294 (common variants) and 35 (rare variants) genes, including ethanol metabolizing genes ADH1B and ADH1C, which were identified by both analyses, and ANKRD12, GIGYF1, KIF21B, and STK31, which were identified in only the rare variant analysis, but have been associated with other neuropsychiatric traits. Network colocalization revealed significant network overlap between the genes identified via common and rare variants. The shared network identified gene families that function in alcohol metabolism, including ADH, ALDH, CYP, and UGT. Seventy‐one of the genes in the shared network were previously implicated in neuropsychiatric or substance use disorders but not alcohol‐related behaviors (e.g. EXOC2, EPM2A, and CACNG4). Differential gene expression analysis showed enrichment in the liver and several brain regions.

Conclusions

Genes implicated by network colocalization identify shared biology relevant to alcohol consumption, which also underlie neuropsychiatric traits and substance use disorders that are comorbid with alcohol use, providing a more holistic understanding of two disparate sources of genetic information.
Touching food: On finding the tech‐tile1
Authors: Ray Krishnendu
Published: June 2024

This article wrestles with the question of the relationship between the digits of our hands and the digital in a dispersed but connected world. What can be held and what fails our grasp in such a universe? How the everyday and habitual skills of cooking and cleaning come into consciousness or vanish into habit, in a constant choreography of remembering and forgetting, with the digital as aid or hindrance. In the process of thinking through posture, gesture, and infrastructure, it reflects on the enduring contemporary challenge of doing ethnographic work at multiple transnational locations, by an ethnographer with a passport that does not travel well, made worse by the restrictions of a pandemic. In the process, it shows how the same hands that can heal, can also hurt.
Letter: Persisting with persistence—A caution as an outcome measure in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rao Vikram , Chen Gordon , Koh Elaine , Segal Jonathan P.
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Yiu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18006 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18136
Comparing different postoperative sedation strategies for patients in the intensive care unit after cardiac surgery: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Hu Qinxue , Liu Xing , Xiang Yuancai , Lei Xianying , Yu Hong , Liu Li , Feng Jianguo
Published: June 2024

Background

Various postoperative sedation protocols with different anaesthetics lead to profound effects on the outcomes for post‐cardiac surgery patients. However, a comprehensive analysis of optimal postoperative sedation strategies for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) after cardiac surgery is lacking.

Methods

We systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in databases including PubMed and Embase. The primary outcome measured the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) in the ICU, and the secondary outcome encompassed the length of stay (LOS) in the ICU and hospital and the monitoring adverse events.

Results

The literature included 18 RCTs (1652 patients) with 13 sedation regimens. Dexmedetomidine plus ketamine and sevoflurane were associated with a significantly reduced duration of MV when compared with propofol. Our results also suggested that dexmedetomidine plus ketamine may associated with a shorter LOS in ICU, and sevoflurane associated with a shorter LOS in the hospital, respectively.

Conclusions

The combination of dexmedetomidine and ketamine seems to be a better option for adult patients needing sedation after cardiac surgery, and the incidence of side effects is lower with dexmedetomidine. These findings have potential implications for medication management in the perioperative pharmacotherapy of cardiac surgery patients.
A randomized controlled study of a second grade numeracy intervention with Swedish students at‐risk of mathematics difficulties
Authors: Lindström‐Sandahl Hanna , Samuelsson Joakim , Danielsson Henrik , Samuelsson Stefan , Elwér Åsa
Published: June 2024

Background

Early numeracy interventions including basic arithmetic are crucial for young students at risk for early mathematics difficulties (MDs), yet few studies have evaluated numeracy interventions in second grade with a randomized controlled design.

Aim

This pre‐ and post‐test randomized controlled study evaluated the effects of an intensive 9‐week numeracy and arithmetic programme for second‐grade students at risk for early MDs. The focus of the programme was students’ foundational understanding of numbers and mathematical concepts and procedural fluency with arithmetic tasks.

Sample

A total of 753 first‐grade students from 21 schools in Sweden were screened for low achievement in number knowledge and arithmetic.

Methods

Students considered at risk for MDs (≤25 percentile on two consecutive first‐grade mathematics screenings) were individually randomized to an intervention group (n = 32) or control group (n = 30) at the beginning of second grade (7–8 years old). Trained teachers administered the one‐to‐one, explicit programme to intervention group students in elementary school settings. The intervention group received numeracy instruction emphasizing foundational mathematics concepts and procedures. Controls received teaching as usual with potential special education support provided by their schools.

Results

The intervention group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in conceptual knowledge, arithmetic calculations and problem‐solving compared to the control group, with medium size effects observed.

Conclusions

A supplemental and intensive programme, with explicit instruction emphasizing numeracy, substantially improved knowledge and skills essential for arithmetic learning. Instruction in conceptual number knowledge and procedures also shows a significant impact on basic arithmetic problem‐solving.
Surgeon perceptions of personality as an influencing factor on anastomotic decision‐making: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Bisset Carly N. , Moug Susan J. , Oliphant Raymond , Dames Nicola , Cleland Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Aim

Surgeon personality is a factor influencing rectal anastomotic decision‐making. However, it is unclear how or why this may be the case, or what aspects of personality are involved. The aim of this study was to investigate the views of colorectal surgeons on how their individual personality may influence variation in anastomotic decision‐making.

Method

Purposive sampling was used to invite certified UK‐based colorectal surgeons to participate, with individual interviews used for data collection. Participants were recruited until ongoing data review indicated no new codes were generated (i.e. data sufficiency). Data were analysed thematically following Braun and Clarke's six‐step framework.

Results

Seventeen colorectal surgeons (eight female, nine male) participated. Two key themes relating to personality and decision‐making were identified: (1) surgeon development and training and (2) patient–surgeon interactions, each with relevant subthemes. Surgeons described how their personality may influence patients’ postoperative outcomes (e.g. decision‐making, team working and communication) and potential mechanisms for how their personality may influence operative risk‐taking. Following anastomotic leakage, surgeons described a disproportionate sense of guilt and responsibility. There appears to be a significant transition in responsibility from trainee to newly appointed consultant, which may be part of the ‘hidden curriculum’ of surgical training.

Conclusion

Colorectal surgeons have described their perceptions of how personality traits may impact variation in decision‐making and patient outcomes for the first time. Early career surgeons felt ill‐prepared for the level of guilt experienced when managing complications. Surgeons appear open to personality assessment if this was through an educational lens, with the aim of improving decision‐making following complications and overall performance.
How much would it cost to guarantee debt for all publicly traded U.S. corporations?
Authors: Miller Stephen Matteo
Published: June 2024

Estimated marked‐to‐market values of guaranteeing debt ex ante for all available publicly traded US corporations from Q4 1971 to Q4 2022 reveal that the largest estimates periodically arise with a handful of large financial corporations, but significant estimates can arise for nonfinancial corporations. In real Q1 2010 US dollars, the aggregate cost of guaranteeing debt reached $983 billion in Q1 2009 and $284.78 billion in Q1 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Large observed guarantee estimates may reflect moral hazard, but also concerns about avoiding substantial increases in unemployment or maintaining the provision of essential services during national emergencies.
Question‐driven text summarization using an extractive‐abstractive framework
Authors: Abazari Kia Mahsa , Garifullina Aygul , Kern Mathias , Chamberlain Jon , Jameel Shoaib
Published: June 2024

Question‐driven automatic text summarization is a popular technique to produce concise and informative answers to specific questions using a document collection. Both query‐based and question‐driven summarization may not produce reliable summaries nor contain relevant information if they do not take advantage of extractive and abstractive summarization mechanisms to improve performance. In this article, we propose a novel extractive and abstractive hybrid framework designed for question‐driven automatic text summarization. The framework consists of complimentary modules that work together to generate an effective summary: (1) discovering appropriate non‐redundant sentences as plausible answers using an open‐domain multi‐hop question answering system based on a convolutional neural network, multi‐head attention mechanism and reasoning process; and (2) a novel paraphrasing generative adversarial network model based on transformers rewrites the extracted sentences in an abstractive setup. Experiments show this framework results in more reliable abstractive summary than competing methods. We have performed extensive experiments on public datasets, and the results show our model can outperform many question‐driven and query‐based baseline methods (an R1, R2, RL increase of 6%–7% for over the next highest baseline).
Squamous cell carcinoma of the nail apparatus: Histopathology and immunohistochemistry correlation study
Authors: Moulart Florine , Olemans Catherine , de Saint Aubain Nicolas , Richert Bertrand , André Josette
Published: June 2024

Background

Nail squamous cell carcinoma (NSCC) is the most frequent ungual malignant tumor, but its incidence remains low. The histopathological description is sparse. We aim to characterize NSCC histopathological aspects, search for a correlation with clinical subtypes, and investigate immunohistochemistry expression of p16, p53, and Ki67.

Methods

This retrospective study collected NSCC diagnosed in our dermatology department between 2007 and 2021. The histopathological features were correlated with the clinical signs and immunohistochemistry.

Results

A total of 48 patients were included, and immunohistochemistry was available for 36 of them. Two histopathological patterns became prominent: a blue‐basaloid type characterized by koilocytosis (p < 0.001), and a pink‐keratinizing type. Mean ages were similar when comparing basaloid and periungual versus keratinizing and subungual (p < 0.001). p16 was positive in 31 of 36 cases: 18 basaloid and 13 keratinizing (p = 0.167). p53 and Ki67 were all abnormal.

Conclusions

Our study described two histopathological NSCC subtypes and associated them with the two clinical subtypes: the blue‐basaloid type, HPV‐induced, in situ, of periungual localization in younger males; and the pink‐keratinizing type, non‐HPV‐induced, invasive, of subungual site, in elderly. Immunohistochemistry was not contributing on its own, but p16 positivity associated with basaloid histopathological profile helps support HPV etiology.
Factors affecting complete stone removal and bile duct stone recurrence in patients with surgically altered anatomy treated by double‐balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiography
Authors: Yokoyama Kensuke , Kanno Atsushi , Tanaka Akitsugu , Sakurai Yusuke , Ikeda Eriko , Ando Kozue , Nagai Hiroki , Yano Tomonori , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study assessed factors influencing the complete removal and recurrence of bile duct stones in patients with surgically altered anatomy (SAA) undergoing double‐balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (DBERC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 289 patients with SAA treated for biliary stones with DBERC at Jichi Medical University Hospital (January 2007 to December 2022) was conducted. Evaluation of factors impacting complete stone removal was performed in 257 patients with successful bile duct cannulation. Logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to compute the odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) at 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Of 257 patients, 139 (54.0%) and 209 (81.3%) achieved initial and complete removal, respectively. Recurrence occurred in 55 (21.4%) patients. Factors associated with initial complete stone removal included cholangitis (P < 0.01, OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.27–0.83), number of stones (P < 0.01, OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.18–0.54), and largest stone diameter (P < 0.01, OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.20–0.67). The size of the largest stone was associated with complete removal (P = 0.01, OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.13–0.76). Recurrence was associated with cholangitis (P = 0.046, HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.29–0.99), congenital biliary dilatation (P = 0.01, HR 2.65, 95% CI 1.21–5.80), and number of stones (P = 0.02, HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.12–3.41).

Conclusions

Successful complete bile stone removal in patients with SAA depends on the stone diameter and number. Stone recurrence is influenced by the number of stones and history of congenital biliary dilatation.
How to care for carers: Psychosocial care for local staff of aid agencies
Authors: Vento Daniella , Koch Dirk‐Jan
Published: June 2024

While mental health and psychosocial support receive substantial international attention in humanitarian aid, the well‐being of local aid agency staff themselves is often overlooked. This research, using an exploratory sequential mixed‐methods design composed of two rounds of interviews (N = 23) and a survey (N = 146), highlights the constraints that local staff encounter to access psychosocial support. The study presents a snapshot of what mental health and psychosocial support is available for aid workers active in emergencies. Among local staff, 50 per cent deem the support not to be appropriate. The main causes are a lack of information regarding the available care, a lack of time to access care, and a lack of trust to access services provided through the employer. This paper suggests that agencies can improve local staff welfare by alleviating stressors related to short‐term contracts, granting access to after‐assignment care, and catering to a wider array of coping strategies.
The efficacy and safety of iGlarLixi versus IDegAsp in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes suboptimally controlled with oral antidiabetic drugs: The Soli‐D randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Ming , Gu Weijun , Chen Li , Li Yanbing , Kuang Hongyu , Du Jianling , Alvarez Agustina , Lauand Felipe , Souhami Elisabeth , Zhang Jiewen , Xu Weiya , Du Qin , Mu Yiming ,   SoliD trial investigators
Published: June 2024

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety of a fixed‐ratio combination of insulin glargine 100 U/mL plus lixisenatide (iGlarLixi) with premixed insulin, insulin degludec plus insulin aspart (IDegAsp), in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) suboptimally controlled with oral antidiabetic drug(s) (OADs).

Methods

In Soli‐D, a 24‐week, multicentre, open‐label, study, insulin‐naïve adults were randomized 1:1 to once‐daily injections of iGlarLixi (n = 291) or IDegAsp (n = 291), with continued metformin ± sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors. The primary endpoint was non‐inferiority in HbA1c change from baseline to week 24. Key secondary endpoints included superiority in HbA1c change and body weight (BW) change at week 24. Hypoglycaemia rates were also assessed.

Results

At week 24, iGlarLixi showed non‐inferiority and superiority over IDegAsp in HbA1c reduction (least squares [LS] mean difference: −0.20 [95% confidence interval {CI}: –0.33, −0.07]; P < .001 for non‐inferiority; [97.5% CI: –0.35, −0.05]; P = .003 for superiority). iGlarLixi decreased BW and IDegAsp increased BW from baseline to week 24, with a statistically significant LS mean difference of −1.49 kg in favour of iGlarLixi (97.5% CI: –2.32, −0.66; P < .001). Event rates (per person‐year) for American Diabetes Association (ADA) Level 1, 2 or 3 hypoglycaemia were lower for iGlarLixi (1.90) versus IDegAsp (2.72) (relative risk: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.98). No ADA Level 3 hypoglycaemia or unexpected safety findings were reported.

Conclusions

In Chinese people with T2D suboptimally controlled with OADs, once‐daily iGlarLixi provided better glycaemic control with BW benefit and lower hypoglycaemia event rates versus IDegAsp.