bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Connectivity Alterations in Asymptomatic Familial Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Caused by APP Duplication
Authors: Paz Rotem , Kalfon Limor , Bergmann Eyal , Eran Ayelet , Aharon-Peretz Judith , Falik Zaccai Tzipora C , Kahn Itamar
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Autosomal dominant mutations of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) are highly penetrant allowing to characterize the asymptomatic phase of this devastating condition. We investigated brain-wide functional alterations in the asymptomatic phase of autosomal dominant early-onset AD (ADEOAD) and explored whether a functional brain fingerprint of the disease can be found prior to clinical manifestation.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study fourteen asymptomaticAPP-dup carriers and eightAPP-dup non-carriers from the same kindred underwent neurological and neuropsychological examination and resting-state fMRI scanning. The functional connectome of each participant was constructed based on 264 pre-defined brain regions, which were classified into seven different sensory (Visual and Somatomotor) and association (Default, Frontoparietal, Ventral Attention, Dorsal Attention, Limbic) cortical networks. Time courses were extracted from all regions in each participant and brain-wide Fisher’sz-transformed Pearson correlation (z(r)) from each region to all other regions was calculated, resulting in a 264 × 264 connectivity matrix per participant. These matrices were used for network similarity and connectome-based predictive modelling (CPM) analyses aimed to characterize age-dependent functional connectivity alterations within the carriers group that reflect their position along the neurodegeneration trajectory.

RESULTS

Comparing individual connectomes within the carriers group to the average connectome in the non-carrier group, we found that network similarity between groups decreased in an age-dependent manner. With age the APP-dup connectome diverged from the non-carriers connectome, with this difference being driven primarily by alterations in association networks and specifically involving the Default and Frontoparietal networks. Moreover, decreases in network similarity of association networks correlated with decreased performance on a visuospatial memory task. Using CPM, we found that in this family, carriers’ age can be predicted independent of the non-carriers control group and that this prediction is based mainly on connections within and between association networks.

DISCUSSION

Functional connectivity was used to assess the progress of AD pathology in asymptomatic carriers of an autosomal-dominant deterministic gene. Our results show that in asymptomaticAPP-dup carriers, aging is associated with functional connectivity alterations that preferentially involve association networks. Understanding these alterations might lay the foundation for development of novel diagnostic markers and assist in determining the appropriate timing of therapeutic interventions in ADEOAD.
The whole genome analysis of four Orf virus strains from Europe and South America
Authors: Cacciabue Marco , Moleres Javier , Lozano Calderón Laura C. , Echeverría Irache , de Pablo Lorena , Glaria Idoia , König Guido , Peralta Andrea , Reina Ramsés
Published: September 2024

Orf virus (ORFV) is the etiological agent of Contagious Ecthyma (CE), a worldwide disease that mainly affects sheep, goats, wild ruminants, and humans. Here, we determined the complete genome sequence of two ORFV strains from Spain (NAV and ARA) and two from Argentina (HRE and CHB), representing the second report from Europe and the first from South America. The assembled genomes of the ARA, CHB, HRE, and NAV strains of ORFV were found to be 137,891 bp, 137,160 bp, 137,340 bp, and 137,214 bp long, respectively, containing 132 genes in each strain, showing high amino acid identity and similar lengths to the reference strain NZ2. We performed a microsatellite analysis to determine a molecular signature for strains that differ in their host (sheep or goat). In addition, the analysis of 32 specially selected genes showed that the nucleotide substitution rate for this dataset was 3.2x10-5 subs/site/year (95% HPD 4.2X10-8 -7.6 X10-5) with a median value of 2.8 x 10-5 subs/site/year, placing the TMRCA (median divergence time) in 1661. The genetic characterization of ORFV strains not only allows epidemiological studies but is the first step toward the development of molecular tools oriented to diagnostics and vaccines.
Integrative systems neuroimmunology reveals leukocyte-expressing PAX6 as a critical predictor of major depressive disorder
Authors: Dias Haroldo Dutra , Adri Anny Silva , Nóbile Adriel Leal , de Oliveira Marilia Garcia , Chung Elizabeth N. , Bahia Ian Antunes Ferreira , Fonseca Dennyson Leandro M , Schimke Lena F. , Filgueiras Igor Salerno , Marçal Pedro , Nery do Vale Fernando Yuri , Dalmolin Rodrigo J S , Cabral-Miranda Gustavo , Nakaya Helder , Bortoloti Renato , Hamani Clement , Wheeler Michael A. , Rezende Rafael Machado , Cabral-Marques Otavio
Published: September 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex psychiatric condition with a significant global impact. This study applied a genomic-driven integrative systems neuroimmunology approach to analyze transcriptomic data from 3,114 individuals (1,877 MDD patients and 1,237 controls). The analysis revealed neuroimmunological transcriptomic alterations, indicating cross-talk between the immune and nervous systems in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and specific brain regions. Among 31 shared genes, NEGR1, PPP6C, SORCS3, and PAX6 emerged as significant predictors of MDD in patients’ PBMCs. Notably, PAX6 was also identified as a differentially expressed gene (DEG) in the amygdala, while NEGR1, PPP6C, and SORCS3 showed no significant differential expression in other central nervous system (CNS) regions. Validation by immunophenotyping in a mouse model of chronic stress demonstrated increased PAX6 expression in PBMCs, a gene previously associated with MDD in GWAS studies. Collectively, our findings suggest the existence of shared transcriptomic modules across the brain and immune system, highlighting PAX6 as a potential therapeutic target in MDD.
Directional motion sensitivity in people with Visual Snow Syndrome is modulated by the presence of trailing-type palinopsia
Authors: Obukhova T.S. , Stroganova T.A. , Artemenko A.R. , Petrokovskaia A.V. , Orekhova E.V.
Published: September 2024

Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) is characterized by visual perceptual distortions, potentially linked to increased neural excitability. We hypothesized that this hyperexcitability might affect motion direction sensitivity in VSS, particularly in those with trailing-type palinopsia (TTP), an atypical perception of visual motion.

Using a spatial suppression paradigm, we assessed motion duration discrimination thresholds for small (1°), medium (2.5°), and large (12°) high-contrast gratings in 23 VSS and 27 control participants. Spatial Suppression Index (SSI) quantified size-dependent increases in duration thresholds. Visual Discomfort Questionnaire scores and VSS symptom ratings including TTP, afterimages, photophobia, etc. were also collected.

VSS patients reported higher visual discomfort and perceptual disturbances. However, no group differences were found in duration thresholds or SSI. Notably, higher TTP scores were associated with lower duration thresholds, indicating a facilitatory effect of TTP on motion sensitivity.

These findings suggest that ‘visual snow,’ the core symptom of VSS, is not linked to abnormal directional sensitivity or center-surround suppression associated with visual motion. However, the dependence of directional sensitivity on TTP emphasizes the heterogeneity of VSS, which should be considered in future neurophysiological and clinical models.
Placentas from SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy exhibit foci of oxidative stress and DNA damage
Authors: Nobrega Guilherme M , McColl Eliza R , Antolini-Tavares Arthur , Souza Renato T , Cecatti José Guilherme , Costa Maria Laura , Mysorekar Indira U
Published: September 2024

Problem

COVID-19 during pregnancy is linked to increased maternal morbidity and a higher incidence of preterm births, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Cellular senescence, characterized by the irreversible cessation of cell division, is a critical process in placental function and its dysregulation has been implicated in pregnancy complications like preterm birth. Senescence can be induced by various stressors, including oxidative stress, DNA damage, and viral infections.

Method of Study

In this study, we determined whether COVID-19 had an impact on placental senescence. We examined placentas from women infected with SARS-CoV-2 (n=10 term, 4 preterm) compared to uninfected controls (n=10 term, 3 preterm). The placentas were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 infection/replication (Spike and Nucleocapsid viral proteins), markers of DNA damage (γH2AX) and oxidative stress (ROS), and senescence (telomere length; cell cycle regulators, SASP).

Results

While no overall differences in cellular senescence markers were observed between the COVID-19 positive and negative groups, we found increased secreted SASP markers and confocal microscopy revealed localized areas of oxidative stress and DNA damage in the placentas from COVID-19 positive cases.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces localized placental damage, warranting further investigation into its impact on maternal and perinatal outcomes.
The human ciliopathy protein RSG1 links the CPLANE complex to transition zone architecture
Authors: Vazquez Neftalí , Lee Chanjae , Valenzuela Irene , Phan Thao P. , Derderian Camille , Chávez Marcelo , Mooney Nancie A. , Demeter Janos , Aziz-Zanjani Mohammad Ovais , Cusco Ivon , Codina Marta , Martínez-Gil Núria , Valverde Diana , Solarat Carlos , Buel Ange-Line , Thauvin-Robinet Cristel , Steichen Elisabeth , Filges Isabel , Joset Pascal , De Geyter Julie , Vaidyanathan Krishna , Gardner Tynan , Toriyama Michinori , Marcotte Edward M. , Roberson Elle C. , Jackson Peter K. , Reiter Jeremy F. , Tizzano Eduardo F. , Wallingford John B.
Published: September 2024

Cilia are essential organelles and variants in genes governing ciliary function result in ciliopathic diseases. The Ciliogenesis and PLANar polarity Effectors (CPLANE) protein complex is essential for ciliogenesis in animals models but remains poorly defined. Notably, all but one subunit of the CPLANE complex have been implicated in human ciliopathy. Here, we identify three families in which variants in the remaining CPLANE subunitCPLANE2/RSG1also cause ciliopathy. These patients display cleft palate, tongue lobulations and polydactyly, phenotypes characteristic of Oral-Facial-Digital Syndrome. We further show that these alleles disrupt two vital steps of ciliogenesis, basal body docking and recruitment of intraflagellar transport proteins. Moreover, APMS reveals that Rsg1 binds the CPLANE and also the transition zone protein Fam92 in a GTP-dependent manner. Finally, we show that CPLANE is generally required for normal transition zone architecture. Our work demonstrates that CPLANE2/RSG1 is a causative gene for human ciliopathy and also sheds new light on the mechanisms of ciliary transition zone assembly.
Non-CG DNA methylation modulates hypocotyl elongation during thermormorphogenesis
Authors: Garro Maián , Greco Eleonora , Vannay Gustavo J. , Leonova Aleksandra , Bruno Leonardo , Capella Matías
Published: September 2024

Plants adapt to warm environments through physiological and morphological changes termed thermomorphogenesis, which involve transcriptional reprogramming exerted mainly by PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR 4 (PIF4). Fluctuating temperatures can also influence the patterns of cytosine DNA methylation, thereby influencing gene expression. However, whether these epigenetic changes provide an adaptative advantage remains unclear. Here, we provide evidence that DNA methylation is required to regulate thermomorphogenesis. Hypomethylateddrm1 drm2 cmt3mutants or seedlings treated with 5-azacytidine to block DNA methylation exhibit reduced hypocotyl growth at warm temperatures, primarily due to impaired cell elongation. Moreover, DNA hypomethylation compromises auxin biosynthesis and transport in response to warmth, partially by reducing PIF4 protein levels. Notably, the loss of DNA methylation leads to increased expression ofSUPPRESSOR OF drm1 drm2 cmt3(SDC), which in turn restricts hypocotyl elongation during thermomorphogenesis. Finally, we demonstrate that DNAme regulates the inhibition ofSDCexpression to promote gibberellin biosynthesis. Our findings underscore the critical role of DNA methylation in modulating gene expression in response to temperature fluctuations and provide new insights into the epigenetic regulation of thermomorphogenesis.

Highlights

DNA methylation regulates the expression of key genes involved in auxin and gibberellin metabolism, to ensure hypocotyl growth in response to warm temperatures.
Single-cell virology: On-chip, quantitative characterization of the dynamics of virus spread from one single cell to another
Authors: Liu Wu , Wilke Claus O. , Arnold Jamie J. , Sotoudegan Mohamad S. , Cameron Craig E.
Published: September 2024

Virus spread at the single-cell level is largely uncharacterized. We have designed and constructed a microfluidic device in which each nanowell contained a single, infected cell (donor) and a single, uninfected cell (recipient). Using a GFP-expressing poliovirus as our model, we observed both lytic and non-lytic spread. Donor cells supporting lytic spread established infection earlier than those supporting non-lytic spread. However, non-lytic spread established infections in recipient cells substantially faster than lytic spread and yielded higher rates of genome replication. While lytic spread was sensitive to the presence of capsid entry/uncoating inhibitors, non-lytic spread was not. Consistent with emerging models for non-lytic spread of enteroviruses using autophagy, reduction of LC3 levels in cells impaired non-lytic spread and elevated the fraction of virus in donor cells spreading lytically. The ability to distinguish lytic and non-lytic spread unambiguously will enable discovery of viral and host factors and host pathways used for non-lytic spread of enteroviruses and other viruses as well.
The Senescence-Associated-Secretory Phenotype constituting HIF-1α activation is independent of micronuclei induction and associated cGAS-mediated interferon response
Authors: Lin Deng , Ho Celestine , Picone Remigio , Abderazzaq Fieda , Flanagan Nicole , Low Boon Chuan , Wu Selwin K.
Published: September 2024

The Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), characterized by the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, is triggered during senescence by anti-proliferation stresses, such as replicative exhaustion and centrosome amplification. Previously, we have discovered that centrosome amplification activates a non-canonical SASP that is dominated by HIF-1α-induced inflammatory cytokines instead of the NFκb activation in canonical SASP. HIF-1α is not only activated in centrosome amplification, oncogene, and gamma-irradiation-induced senescence1but also induced in replicative exhaustion-induced senescence. Another major consequence of centrosome amplification is micronuclei generation from chromosome missegregation. The micronuclei could have triggered SASP by activating cGAS/Sting innate immune response2. However, it has been shown that micronuclei from chromosome missegregation fail to activate cGAS/Sting-mediated innate immune response3–5. Indeed, here we further demonstrate that moderate chromosome missegregation by centrosome amplification or mitotic kinase monopolar spindle 1 inhibition, which is known to generate micronuclei, fails to induce senescence and cGAS-mediated interferon response. In summary, we provide evidence that the Senescence-Associated-Secretory Phenotype constitutes hypoxia-inducible factor-alpha activation, independent of chromosome missegregation triggering cGAS-mediated innate immune interferon response.
Live imaging human embryos reveals mitotic errors and lineage specification prior to implantation
Authors: Abdelbaki Ahmed , McCarthy Afshan , Karsa Anita , Muresan Leila , Elder Kay , Papathanasiou Athanasios , Snell Phil , Christie Leila , Wilding Martin , Steventon Benjamin J. , Niakan Kathy K.
Published: September 2024

Meiotic and mitotic chromosome segregation errors in human development have been studied mostly prior to and at the time of fertilisation. Despite chromosomal errors being a leading cause of miscarriage and infertility, chromosome missegregation has not been extensively studied at later stages of human development. Here we optimised labelling, light-sheet live imaging and semi-quantitative analysis of human embryos and reveal chromosome segregation errors just prior to implantation. We found that human embryos exhibited a number of chromosome missegregation events including multipolar spindle formation, lagging chromosomes, misalignment and chromosome slippage. We found that the majority of lagging chromosomes were passively inherited by one of the daughter cells, instead of reincorporating into the nuclei, suggesting a distinct pattern of micronuclei inheritance. By semi-automated segmentation, we tracked the position of labelled cells in human embryos and observed that while most labelled cells remained segregated to the outside, and therefore restricted to a placental-progenitor fate, there was evidence of a rare cell migration to cells positioned on the inside, which suggests that there may be plasticity. Altogether, we found that mitotic chromosome segregation errors arise just prior to implantation, which has implications for our understanding of biological events that contribute to aneuploidy mosaicism.
Leptogenesis from composite singlets
Authors: Yoshimatsu Nobuki
Published: September 2024

We argue that dual singlets accommodate the thermal leptogenesis in the context of metastable supersymmetry breaking. This framework suggests that the reheating temperature is as low as O(104)  GeV, and besides the neutrino masses, solely induced from the dual fermions, are present at O(0.1)  eV. We also expect that the unstable gravitino, though long-lived, may cause a clear signal of the neutrino flux at O(10)  MeV.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
An alternative method to the Takagi–Taupin equations for studying dark-field X-ray microscopy of deformed crystals
Authors: Wang Kun-Lun , Kang Xu , Li Xiao-Ya
Published: September 2024

This study introduces an alternative method to the Takagi–Taupin equations for investigating the dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM) of deformed crystals. In scenarios where dynamical diffraction cannot be disregarded, it is essential to assess the potential inaccuracies of data interpretation based on the kinematic diffraction theory. Unlike the Takagi–Taupin equations, this new method utilizes an exact dispersion relation, and a previously developed finite difference scheme with minor modifications is used for the numerical implementation. The numerical implementation has been validated by calculating the diffraction of a diamond crystal with three components, wherein dynamical diffraction is applicable to the first component and kinematic diffraction pertains to the remaining two. The numerical convergence is tested using diffraction intensities. In addition, the DFXM image of a diamond crystal containing a stacking fault is calculated using the new method and compared with the experimental result. The new method is also applied to calculate the DFXM image of a twisted diamond crystal, which clearly shows a result different from those obtained using the Takagi–Taupin equations.
The employability consequences of grit: examining the roles of job involvement and team member proactivity
Authors: Jiang Lin , Khapova Svetlana N. , Cai Wenjing , Gao Xiaopei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Responding to the call for more research on the consequences of grit, this study aims to examine the relationship between grit and employees’ perceived employability. Drawing on the self-determination theory, the authors hypothesize that job involvement and team member proactivity sequentially mediate the relationship between grit and employability.

Design/methodology/approach

A time-lagged research design with a one-month interval was conducted to collect data from three public sector organizations in China (N = 484). The model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis and the PROCESS bootstrapping program in SPSS25.0 and AMOS21.0 software.

Findings

The findings reveal that the positive effect of grit on employability is mediated by job involvement and team member proactivity sequentially.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature on the employability outcomes of grit. It is also one of a few studies that use a job perspective on the grit−employability relationship.
Revisiting the financial challenges faced by women-led microenterprises: some evidence from the Indian manufacturing sector
Authors: Majumdar Raju , Mittal Ankur
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This primary purpose of this research is to explore the rank order of funding challenges among the other challenges faced by women entrepreneurs (WEs) in an urban setting. For this purpose, the study uses a sample of women microentrepreneurs engaged in (the relatively capital-intensive) manufacturing activities. The study further explores the perception of WEs toward borrowing as a source of funds and the challenges they face while accessing institutional finance. Lastly, the study explores whether the financial challenges faced by them are, in part, influenced by the deficiencies in their own skill set, as the human capital theory suggests.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose of analysis, this research uses summary statistics, namely the mean, mode and standard deviation for the purpose of preliminary analysis. The Friedman two-way analysis of variance by rank test and the associated chi-square value are used to statistically validate the hypothesis. Furthermore, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test is used to check for the robustness of our results.

Findings

Our findings suggest that the growth of the financial services sector in urban India has not had a significant impact on the funding challenges that WEs faced. A closer look at the evidence suggests that even for educated urban women, the funding challenges faced are no different from what has widely been reported in the context of other emerging nations. Highlighting the inadequacies in high school and college education in so far as financial skills training is concerned, the study recommends a multipronged approach to address the observed voluntary abstinence from borrowing as well as the institutional hurdles WEs faced.

Originality/value

Unlike previous research where WEs are treated as a monolithic whole, this study focuses on WEs engaged in manufacturing activities in an urban setting.
To complete or terminate smart manufacturing projects: a prospect theory perspective
Authors: Shan Xueshu , Shao Jinan , Zhao Xinyu , Shou Yongyi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Despite the increasingly salient role of smart manufacturing (SM) in revolutionizing operational processes, little research has explored the dynamics of corporate executives’ decision-making on SM projects after their initiation. To fill this research gap, this study examines the configurations of project complexities (i.e. technological breadth and organizational breadth) and industry conditions (i.e. industry growth and industry competition) that shape managerial decisions to complete or terminate SM projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Using secondary data of 125 SM projects implemented in 106 manufacturers during the 2011–2020 period, we conduct a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis to empirically derive equifinal configurations that lead to the completion or termination of SM projects.

Findings

The results reveal that project complexities and industry conditions work together in configurations where manufacturers will complete or terminate SM projects. We employ prospect theory to elucidate the findings and offer propositions.

Originality/value

Our study extends the extant SM literature by revealing the configurations of project complexities and industry conditions that shape managerial decisions on the completion or termination of SM projects after their initiation. It contributes to the prospect theory literature by accounting for the roles of both decision content and decision context and providing empirical evidence on their joint effects on managerial risk-taking decisions that alter the subjective value and probability weight of decision outcomes.
Social, cultural and institutional forces in corporate and patrimonial states and their relations with corporate governance: a North–South contrast
Authors: Martínez-Avella Mario , Jiménez-Aguilar Carlos
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine two questions that contribute to understanding the organizational corporate governance forms of the so-called New World: What have been the social and cultural forces that gave rise to the institutional features of the Anglo-Saxon corporate states and the Hispanic patrimonial states? And how have these traits influenced the governance forms of North American and Latin American firms?

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative historical analysis methodology that dates back to the colonial foundations of the New World was used. Analysis categories were derived to allow us to reflect on the phenomenon studied and support the hypotheses while deriving observations that explain the historical relationships of the state types and their capitalisms with contemporary corporate governance. The research also considered case analysis in context, presented as specific empirical evidence.

Findings

The paper maintains that the historical social and cultural forces that were configured in the New World shaped the institutional features of the Anglo-Saxon corporate states with liberal capitalism and the Hispanic patrimonial states with hierarchical capitalism, and that these features are related to the predominant organizational corporate governance forms in North American and Latin American firms, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper provides insights into the social, cultural and institutional factors that gave rise to corporate and patrimonial states and their relationships with the different types of organizational corporate governance. It introduces a categorization into the literature with three types of organizational corporate governance (e.g. corporatist, patrimonial and hybrid). This allows progress in linking corporate governance theories with a managerial focus and governance perspectives oriented to economic and social development.
An novel finite difference dispersion error elimination mechanism in the Lax–Wendroff high‐order time discretization
Authors: Liang Wenquan , Wang Yanfei
Published: September 2024

Time domain finite difference methods have been widely used for wave‐equation modelling in exploration geophysics over many decades. When using time domain finite difference methods, it is desirable to use a larger time step so as to save numerical simulation time. The Lax–Wendroff method is one of the well‐known methods to allow larger time step without increasing the time grid dispersion. However, the Lax–Wendroff method suffers from more time consumption because there are more spatial derivatives required to be approximated by the finite difference operators. We propose a new finite difference scheme for the Lax–Wendroff method so as to reduce the numerical simulation time. Then we determine the finite difference operator coefficients and analyse the dispersion error of the proposed finite difference scheme for the Lax–Wendroff method. At last, we apply the proposed finite difference scheme for the Lax–Wendroff method to different velocity models. The numerical simulation results indicate that the proposed finite difference scheme for the Lax–Wendroff method can effectively suppress time grid dispersion and is more efficient compared to the traditional finite difference scheme for the Lax–Wendroff method.
Quantitative impact damage of apple based on hyperspectral imaging combined with mechanical parameters and size correction
Authors: Li Bin , Wan Xia , Liu Yin‐ling , Lu Ying‐jun , Liu Yan‐de
Published: September 2024

In order to solve the problem of decreasing the accuracy of quantitative prediction of damage of fruits resulting in the size difference of fruits, the spectral correction method based on the size difference of fruits was adopted. To provide richer theoretical knowledge for the quality detection of fruits and the design of damage reduction programs in reality. First, the undamaged spectra of the group of apples with better performance of the model were selected as the reference spectra by analyzing and comparing the modeling results of the prediction models of mechanical parameters with the single fruit diameter groups. The spectral correction coefficient was calculated with the formulas, and the damage spectra of three groups of apples were size‐corrected by this coefficient to build the mechanical parameter models. Finally, the corrected spectra were screened for characteristic wavelengths by competitive adaptive reweighting and uninformative variable elimination algorithms. The results of study showed that the correlation coefficients of the prediction set of the models were improved by 2.1%–13% and the root mean square errors were reduced by 16%–51% with the spectrally corrected models compared with the precorrection models. Therefore, the size correction method can be used to eliminate the effect of size difference on the mechanical parameter models to improve the applicability of the quantitative damage prediction models, and it can provide the theoretical guidance to design the loss‐reducing protective measures and the agricultural mechanized operation process.
Exploring the links between periodontal diseases and obstructive sleep apnoea: An overview for clinicians
Authors: Carra MC , Cistulli PA
Published: September 2024

Both periodontal diseases (PDs) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are highly prevalent disorders with global impact, associated with a large burden at individual patient and health system levels. These disorders often co‐exist, but there is growing evidence that the association between the disorders goes beyond an overlap between two highly prevalent diseases that have shared risk factors. Evidence suggests a potential causal relationship, although further research is required to verify this. Regardless of any causal relationship, the co‐existence of these disorders is important to recognize since they may act in combination to heighten health risks, particularly cardiovascular risk. Thus, dentists have an important role in screening for OSA in patients presenting with PDs, and similarly, they need to evaluate periodontal health in patients requiring treatment for OSA. Here we provide a narrative review of the association between PDs and OSA to raise awareness among clinicians and promote multidisciplinary collaborations that aim at an evidence‐based and effective management of such patients.
Vectorcardiography Predicts Heart Failure in Patients Following ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Perkins Sidney J. , Monovoukas Demetri , Chopra Zoey , Kucharski Kevin , Powell Corey , Vejalla Anuush , Latchamsetty Rakesh , Bugga Pallavi , Asthana Vishwaratn
Published: September 2024

Background

Modeling outcomes, such as onset of heart failure (HF) or mortality, in patients following ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is challenging but clinically very useful. The acute insult following a myocardial infarction and chronic degeneration seen in HF involve a similar process where a loss of cardiomyocytes and abnormal remodeling lead to pump failure. This process may alter the strength and direction of the heart's net depolarization signal. We hypothesize that changes over time in unique parameters extracted using vectorcardiography (VCG) have the potential to predict outcomes in patients post‐STEMI and could eventually be used as a noninvasive and cost‐effective surveillance tool for characterizing the severity and progression of HF to guide evidence‐based therapies.

Methods

We identified 162 patients discharged from Michigan Medicine between 2016 and 2021 with a diagnosis of acute STEMI. For each patient, a single 12‐lead ECG > 1 week pre‐STEMI and > 1 week post‐STEMI were collected. A set of unique VCG parameters were derived by analyzing features of the QRS complex. We used LASSO regression analysis incorporating clinical variables and VCG parameters to create a predictive model for HF, mortality, or the composite at 90, 180, and 365 days post‐STEMI.

Results

The VCG model is most predictive for HF onset at 90 days with a robust AUC. Variables from the HF model mitigating or driving risk, at a p < 0.05, were primarily parameters that assess the area swept by the depolarization vector including the 3D integral and convex hull in select spatial octants and quadrants.
How do business associations support contract enforcement? Evidence from Hungary
Authors: Mike Károly , Boza István , Molnár Gábor Tamás
Published: September 2024

Business associations (BAs) are often mentioned among formal private‐order institutions that support contract enforcement. Despite their ubiquity, evidence about their actual roles is still very limited. We explore empirically four mechanisms through which they can support the credibility of contractual commitments: member selection, norm enforcement, dispute resolution and information sharing. In a developed legal context, firm‐level data from an economy‐wide managerial survey show that BAs support contractual trust among members, in members by outsiders as well as in outsiders by members. Member selection and information sharing stand out as the most important mechanisms: They help all three relationship types. Dispute resolution helps overcome opportunism between members only. Formalized norm enforcement is a signal of trustworthiness for outsiders. Economic theory suggests that BAs can help establish trust beyond personal and local networks. We find strong evidence that they indeed do.
So different yet so alike? Political collective narcissism predicts blatant dehumanization of political outgroups among conservatives and liberals
Authors: Marchlewska Marta , Górska Paulina , Podsiadłowski Wojciech , Rogoza Marta , Szczepańska Dagmara
Published: September 2024

Previous research found that political polarization goes hand in hand with being strongly identified with a political ingroup. In this research, we assumed this should be the case only among those who identify with their political ingroup in a narcissistic way (stemming from frustrated needs and predicting outgroup hostility). This hypothesis was tested in one experimental (Study 4, n = 525) and three cross‐sectional (Study 1, n = 320; Study 2, n = 316; Study 3, n = 500) studies conducted among American and Polish participants. In all studies, we found a consistent positive link between political narcissism, but not political identification, and the blatant dehumanization of political outgroups. This relationship held over and above metadehumanization, measured in Studies 2 and 3. In Studies 3 and 4, we additionally found that political narcissism may also predict aggressive inclinations towards political outgroups, measured with the voodoo doll task. These findings suggest that differentiation between political narcissism and political identification may help to better understand the psychological underpinnings of political polarization.
1113. Stachyurus macrocarpus Koidz. var. prunifolius Tuyama
Authors: Higuchi Yumiko , Takegami Minako , Yamanaka Masumi
Published: September 2024

Stachyurus macrocarpus Koidz. var. prunifolius Tuyama is described and illustrated. The species is endemic to Haha‐jima, one of the islands of the Bonin Islands, Japan, and highly endangered. We provide information about this species, including its discovery, reproduction, conservation, cultivation, and uses.
Spatial wage curve and the role of external factors over time
Authors: Majchrowska Aleksandra , Broniatowska Paulina
Published: September 2024

This study attempts to answer the question of how strongly the situation in local and neighbouring labour markets affects the level of wages in the local labour market. To answer it we use the wage curve concept. We estimate the wage curve that includes spatial effects and check the stability of the relationships over time. We concentrate on 380 local labour markets in Poland. The research period covers 2005–2021, and spatial panel models are used. Our estimates confirm the existence of the statistically significant and negative relationship between average wages and the situation in the local labour market in Poland with an estimated elasticity of −0.06. Moreover, we confirm the existence of the spatial wage curve in Poland in the 2005–2021 period. Both direct (local) and indirect (spatial) effects are statistically significant and negative on average in the analysed period. The total effects of unemployment rate wages vary from −0.06 to −0.08 depending on the spatial matrix used. Additionally, our research indicates several macroeconomic and institutional factors which are important in shaping wages. Lastly, we find that the elasticity of wages with respect to the unemployment rate is not stable over time. The relationship between unemployment and average wages has strongly weakened.
A radiographic projection for the assessment of the equine paracondylar process
Authors: Bulnes F. , Calle‐González N. , Jiménez J. , Argüelles D. , Hernández E. , Muñoz A. , Barakzai S. Z.
Published: September 2024

Background

The paracondylar process is of clinical interest due to its proximity to anatomical structures involved in vital functions. There are limited reports describing abnormalities affecting the paracondylar process (PCP), with traumatic fractures being the most prevalent pathology. Affected horses can present with a variety of signs including headshaking, facial paralysis and/or poor performance. In almost all cases reported in the literature to date, computed tomography has been used to diagnose a PCP fracture.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop a radiographic technique for imaging the PCP, to determine the optimum radiographic projection angle and trial its use in standing sedated horses.

Study design

Cadaveric‐simulated clinical case and pilot study conducted in 10 standing sedated horses.

Methods

Three tangential radiographs of the left and right paracondylar processes at 5°, 15° and 20° to the transverse plane and 20° to the dorsal plane were obtained in 10 standing sedated horses. Three blinded observers independently ranked each of the three images for clarity of viewing the PCP. The radiographic projection allowed imaging of the ventral portion of the PCP while avoiding superimposition of other osseous structures. A simulated PCP fracture in a cadaver could be recognised using this technique.

Results

The highest grades were obtained for radiographs with a 5° angle from the transverse plane, and the lowest grades were obtained for a 20° angle.

Main limitations

Complex anatomy of the PCP with superimposition of osseous and soft tissue structures.

Conclusions

The radiographic technique for the PCP can be safely performed in standing, sedated horses. It is suitable for implementation in general veterinary practice before considering referral for advanced imaging techniques in horses presenting with headshaking or facial paralysis.
Navigating Stepwise Lifestyle Mobilities via the Global South: Japanese Migrant Families’ Negotiation of Educational and Lifestyle Aspirations in Malaysia
Authors: Igarashi Hiroki
Published: September 2024

Studies of the transnational migration of East Asian families have examined how they enhance their status and well‐being by moving their children to schools in Western anglophone countries. Although recent studies have identified Southeast Asia as a new, affordable destination for less affluent families, we do not know their future transnational trajectories. To fill this gap, this study employed interview data from 46 Japanese families who had migrated to Malaysia with their children and investigated how they navigated their transnational mobilities from Malaysia. To explain their pattern, I introduce the concept of ‘stepwise lifestyle mobilities’, transnational mobility pathways adopted by relatively affluent people from developed countries, who may face constraints due to factors such as race, ethnicity, limited global experience or financial limitations but a desire for an international experience. They start from a low‐cost, low‐risk country like Malaysia and seek staged lifestyle migration regionally and/or globally.
The influence of components on the high‐temperature performance and cutting performance of Si3N4‐based ceramic tools
Authors: Xu Weiwei , Zhang Zuoxuan , Wang Boxiang , Jiang Liyi , Yan Guodong , Guan Li
Published: September 2024

Three kinds of Si3N4‐based ceramic tools (single‐phase Si3N4, Si3N4/(W,Ti)C, and Si3N4/(W,Ti)C/Ni) were fabricated by microwave sintering. The phase composition, toughening mechanism, mechanical properties at room and high temperatures (800°C), and cutting performance of Si3N4‐based ceramic tool materials with different additives were investigated. The results showed that the addition of (W,Ti)C and Ni had a significant effect on improving the mechanical properties at room temperature, although it reduced the phase transition conversion rate of Si3N4. Si3N4/(W,Ti)C tools had good high‐temperature stability, while Si3N4/(W,Ti)C/Ni tools had a decrease of about 31.6% in high‐temperature hardness and a decrease of 13.7% in high‐temperature flexure strength. Under the premise of ensuring a certain level of fracture toughness, high‐temperature hardness is the main influencing factor on the cutting life of cutting tools. The Si3N4/(W,Ti)C tools exhibit superior cutting performance whose cutting life reaches to 50.67 min which was 1.37–3.27 times longer than the other two ceramic cutting tools at the same cutting parameters when continuous dry cutting T10A. In addition, high‐temperature flexure strength limits the choice of cutting speed, and lower high‐temperature flexure strength can lead to rapid tool failure.
Analgesics and NSAIDs in the treatment of the acute migraine attack
Authors: Pfaffenrath V , Scherzer S
Published: September 2024

In the treatment of migraine attacks, an antiemetic in combination with an analgesic or ergot alkaloid is widely recommended. Medication should be introduced as early as possible, but only when there is no doubt that the headache is due to migraine. The antiemetic provides relief from the nausea and vomiting and also enhances the resorption of analgesics or ergot preparations. Domperidone 20 mg orally and 20 mg metoclopramide as suppository or 10–20 mg orally are mostly used as antiemetics. Analgesics such as 1000 mg acetylsalicylic acid as effervescent tablets, or 1000 mg paracetamol as effervescent tablets or suppositories should be given 15–20 min later. If this treatment fails, NSAIDs can be tried. In some studies naproxen in doses between 500 and 1000 mg and ibuprofen in doses between 400 and 800 mg have been shown to be effective, as well as NSAIDs like diclofenac, mefenamic acid, ketoprofen, tolfenamic acid and pirprofen. NSAIDs have been found to be superior to placebo and to standard reference drugs in the majority of the reviewed double-blind trials. Nevertheless, these effects are marginal in some studies or even without clinical relevance. Accordingly, there is still a need for further comparative studies.
Prophylactic Treatment of Migraine: Evaluation of Clinical Trials and Choice among Drugs
Authors: Tfelt-Hansen P
Published: September 2024

A checklist is presented to assist with the evaluation of a controlled trial in migraine prophylaxis. The following points are discussed briefly: aim of the study, design of the study, efficacy parameters, and presentation of results and statistics. Choice among drugs for migraine prophylaxis is described taking into account: clinical efficacy, scientific proof for efficacy, and contraindications.
Unveiling the Gut Microbiota of Pig‐Tailed Macaque (Macaca nemestrina) in Selected Habitats in Malaysia
Authors: Osman Nur Azimah , Gani Millawati , Tingga Roberta Chaya Tawie , Abdul‐Latiff Muhammad Abu Bakar , Mohd‐Ridwan Abd Rahman , Chan Eddie , Md‐Zain Badrul Munir
Published: September 2024

Background

The gut microbiota plays an important role in primates, which may be associated with their habitat. In Malaysia, pig‐tailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) live in different habitat environments and have traditionally been used for coconut plucking for more than a century. There is currently no information regarding the gut microbiota of this macaque in Malaysia. To address this oversight, this study employed a fecal metabarcoding approach to determine the gut microbiota composition of pig‐tailed macaques and establish how these microbial communities correspond with the macaque external environments of residential area, forest edge, and fragmented forest.

Methods

To determine this connection, 300 paired‐end sequences of 16S rRNA were amplified and sequenced using the MiSeq platform.

Results

In the pig‐tailed macaque fecal samples, we identified 17 phyla, 40 orders, 52 families, 101 genera, and 139 species of bacteria. The most prevalent bacterial families in the gut of pig‐tailed macaques were Firmicutes (6.31%) and Proteobacteria (0.69%). Our analysis did not identify a significant difference between the type of environmental habitat and the gut microbiota composition of these macaques.

Conclusions

There was great variation in the population richness and bacterial community structure. The abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria helps this macaque digest food more easily while maintaining a healthy gut microbiota diversity. Exploring the gut microbiota provides an initial effort to support pig‐tailed macaque conservation in the future.
A Mixed‐Methods Study to Evaluate Depression and Anxiety Among Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Yan Li‐Hua , Xie Meng‐Yi , Yang Qiu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

As the backbone of future healthcare delivery, the mental health of undergraduate nursing students can have a direct impact on patients' perceptions of health and the quality of their healthcare learning. However, there has been little qualitative research on the factors influencing the mental health of undergraduate nursing students.

Aim

This study investigated the current status and factors influencing depression and anxiety in undergraduate nursing students.

Methods

Questionnaires were administered to third‐year nursing students at a medical college university using the Self‐Assessment Scale for Anxiety (SAS) and the Self‐Depression Scale (SDS). The students who suffered from anxiety or depression were selected for qualitative interviews and the results of the interviews were analysed by using the seven‐step Koretz analysis.

Results

(1) SAS and SDS scores of undergraduate nursing students were higher than the national average. (2) The qualitative interviews revealed that five themes, including childhood experience, body image, interpersonal relationships, professional identity and career planning, influenced mental health.

Discussion

Undergraduate nursing students exhibited a high prevalence of anxiety and depression. The colleges should establish a proactive educational model centred on teaching quality, professional identity, career planning and mental health.

Implication for Practice

This study found that the mental health of undergraduate nursing students was influenced by a variety of factors, which require diverse and constant interventions. School, family and social resources should collaborate to develop a systematic approach for better mental health education in undergraduate nursing students.