bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy baryons in the relativized quark model with chromodynamics
Authors: Weng Xin-Zhen , Deng Wei-Zhen , Zhu Shi-Lin
Published: September 2024

Following the work of Capstick and Isgur [], we systematically study the mass spectrum of the heavy baryons in the relativized quark potential model with chromodynamics. Besides the original Godfrey-Isgur (GI) model, we also adopt a modified GI model which replaces the linear confinement by a screened one. The two models give similar results in our work. All heavy baryons observed so far can be explained as three-quark states. In particular, we identify the Ωc(3000)/Ωb(6316), Ωc(3050)/Ωb(6330), Ωc(3065)/Ωb(6340), and Ωc(3090)/Ωb(6350) states as the pλ excitations with quantum numbers 1/2−, 3/2−, 3/2−, and 5/2−. The Ωc(3120) is a 3/2− state with the pρ excitation, whose bottom partner is predicted to be Ωb(6446/6457,3/2−). The higher state Ωc(3188) is the 2sλ excitation with quantum numbers 1/2+, and Ωc(3327) is a dλ excitation with quantum numbers 3/2+ or 5/2+.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Next-to-leading-order electroweak correction to
H→Z0γ
Authors: Sang Wen-Long , Feng Feng , Jia Yu
Published: September 2024

Inspired by the recent observation of the Higgs boson radiative decay into Z0 by and Collaborations, we investigate the next-to-leading-order (NLO) electroweak correction to this rare decay process in Standard Model (SM). Implementing the on shell renormalization scheme, we find that the magnitude of the NLO electroweak correction may reach 7% of the leading-order (LO) prediction, much more significant than that of the NLO QCD correction, which is merely about 0.3%. After incorporating the O(α) correction, the predicted partial width from various α schemes tend to converge to each other. Including both NLO electroweak and QCD corrections, the SM prediction for the branching fraction shifts from the LO value of (1.40–1.71)×10−3 to (1.55±0.06)×10−3, considerably lower than the measured value Bexp[H→Z0γ]=(3.4±1.1)×10−3. Resolving this discrepancy clearly calls for further theoretical investigations, and, more importantly, experimental efforts from and the prospective Higgs factories such as and .

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Topological Green’s Function Zeros in an Exactly Solved Model and Beyond
Authors: Bollmann Steffen , Setty Chandan , Seifert Urban F. P. , König Elio J.
Published: September 2024

The interplay of topological electronic band structures and strong interparticle interactions provides a promising path towards the constructive design of robust, long-range entangled many-body systems. As a prototype for such systems, we here study an exactly integrable, local model for a fractionalized topological insulator. Using a controlled perturbation theory about this limit, we demonstrate the existence of topological bands of zeros in the exact fermionic Green’s function and show that in this model they do affect the topological invariant of the system, but not the quantized transport response. Close to (but prior to) the Higgs transition signaling the breakdown of fractionalization, the topological bands of zeros acquire a finite “lifetime.” We also discuss the appearance of edge states and edge zeros at real space domain walls separating different phases of the system. This model provides a fertile ground for controlled studies of the phenomenology of Green’s function zeros and the underlying exactly solvable lattice gauge theory illustrates the synergetic cross pollination between solid-state theory, high-energy physics, and quantum information science.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Thermodynamic cost of finite-time stochastic resetting
Authors: Olsen Kristian Stølevik , Gupta Deepak , Mori Francesco , Krishnamurthy Supriya
Published: September 2024

Recent experiments have implemented resetting by means of an external trap, whereby a system relaxes to the minimum of the trap and is reset in a finite time. In this work, we set up and analyze the thermodynamics of such a protocol. We present a general framework, valid even for non-Poissonian resetting, that captures the thermodynamic work required to maintain a resetting process up to a given observation time, and exactly calculate the moment generating function of this work. Our framework is valid for a wide range of systems, the only assumption being relaxation to equilibrium in the resetting trap. Examples and extensions are considered. In the case of Brownian motion, we investigate optimal resetting schemes that minimize work and its fluctuations, the mean work for arbitrary switching protocols, and comparisons to previously studied resetting schemes. Numerical simulations are performed to validate our findings.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Direct Microwave Spectroscopy of Andreev Bound States in Planar
Ge
Josephson Junctions
Authors: Hinderling M. , ten Kate S. C. , Coraiola M. , Haxell D.Z. , Stiefel M. , Mergenthaler M. , Paredes S. , Bedell S.W. , Sabonis D. , Nichele F.
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate microwave measurements of the Andreev-bound-state (ABS) spectrum in planar Josephson junctions (JJs) defined in Ge high-mobility two-dimensional hole gases contacted by superconducting platinum germanosilicide (PtSiGe). The JJs and readout circuitry are located on separate chips and inductively coupled via flip-chip bonding. For a device with 350-nm junction length, the spectroscopic signatures were consistent with the short-junction limit, with an induced superconducting gap Δ∗≈48μeV and transmission τ≈0.94. The interaction between the highest-transmission ABS and the resonator was well described by a Jaynes-Cummings model with a vacuum Rabi splitting of approximately 6 MHz. A device with a junction length of 1μm showed an ABS spectrum consistent with a long-junction model. Time-resolved monitoring of the readout resonator in the dispersive regime revealed gate-voltage tunable-junction parity fluctuations on the time scale of seconds. Our work indicates a viable path toward hybrid quantum devices based on planar Ge.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
A robust financing theory of ICOs under demand uncertainty of products of token platforms
Authors: Ling Aifan , Sun Jie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The market products produced by Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) platforms are often relatively new and have no previous transaction records and therefore are hard to estimate for its demand. The purpose is to study the impacts of the degree of ambiguity aversion of entrepreneurs to demand uncertainty on the ICO financing ratio, the optimal expected output, the optimal efforts and the token price.

Design/methodology/approach

In an optimal ICO design, we introduce demand uncertainty of the product and establish a robust optimization method to solve the ICO optimal design. We compare ICO financing and the general venture capital (VC) financing model. We analyze the impact of demand uncertainty on the optimal ICO financing ratio.

Findings

Findings include that the ICO financing ratio is positively related to the degree of ambiguity aversion, the token price is negatively related to the degree of ambiguity aversion and the “ambiguity premium” exists in the ICO market, the optimal effort levels are negatively related with the ICO financing ratio, but positively related with token price, and in the environment of high production cost, VC financing is not as good as ICO financing.

Originality/value

We develop a robust ICO financing model by assuming that the entrepreneur is ambiguity aversive to the demand uncertainty. Analyze the impact of the degree of ambiguity aversion on the ICO financing ratio in theory and find that the entrepreneur can raise funds with the higher ICO token ratio when she has a larger degree of ambiguity aversion to the demand uncertainty. Extend the impact analysis of the degree of ambiguity aversion on the expected token price and find a negative relationship between the expected token price and the degree of ambiguity aversion of the entrepreneur to the demand uncertainty.
Internationalization at home in higher education: a systematic review of teaching and learning practices
Authors: Soulé María Victoria , Parmaxi Antigoni , Nicolaou Anna
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper explores current teaching and learning practices, benefits and challenges in the implementation of Internationalization at Home (IaH) in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows a systematic review (SR) protocol in accordance with the PRISMA Statement, covering published research from 2018 to 2022. Through this process, we identified 58 peer-reviewed manuscripts meeting our inclusion criteria. We examined disciplines, locations of IaH, objectives pursued, modality of the IaH implementation, activities and resources used. Benefits and challenges were also analysed.

Findings

The SR reveals a growing adoption of IaH, employing various technologies and interdisciplinary methods to foster cross-cultural competence. It emphasizes diverse teaching activities and resources, aligning with digitalization trends. While IaH brings benefits like improved intercultural sensitivity, collaboration and skills development, it also faces challenges in language, technical, personal, pedagogical and organizational aspects, highlighting its complexity.

Research limitations/implications

Our search focused on research from 2018 to 2022, potentially missing earlier trends, and excluded grey literature due to quality concerns. The SR emphasizes online collaborative efforts in IaH, signalling a shift to digital internationalization. Institutions should invest in supporting such practices aided by strategic university alliances. A critical approach to “Global-North” collaborations is urged, promoting geographically inclusive IaH initiatives.

Originality/value

This study responds to the call for critical analysis on concrete examples of IaH. Through a systematic review, it explores recent teaching and learning practices, with a particular focus on the latest technological advancements. The study specifies learning objectives and identifies relevant tools for implementing IaH initiatives.
Why do aged care employees leave? Two explanations compared
Authors: Treuren Gerrit J.M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of the study was to compare the explanatory power of the dissatisfaction-based account of aged care employee turnover against that of Lee and Mitchell’s (1994) unfolding theory of turnover.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed method prospective cohort study with three waves of employee survey data and an exit interview drawn from employees of a large Australian not-for-profit aged care provider. Independent t tests and mediated logistic regression analyses were conducted. Final sample: nStayers at Wave 3 = 138; nLeavers by Wave 3 = 42).

Findings

The classic dissatisfaction-based theory accounts for 19% of actual leavers. The five unfolding theory exit pathways accounted for 73.8% of all leavers. Stayers had the same dissatisfaction as leavers. Shock-based turnover (40.5% of all leavers) was more common than dissatisfaction-based turnover (33.5%). An additional 11.9% of leavers resigned to retire from paid work.

Research limitations/implications

Dissatisfaction-based theory provided a relatively weak explanation of aged care turnover in this organisation. The unfolding theory provided a better and more nuanced account of employee leaving.

Practical implications

Unfolding theory exit interviews will assist aged care employers to better identify organizationally specific exit patterns and assist in finding appropriate organizational solutions to employee turnover.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first direct comparison of two explanations of aged care employee turnover and provides guidance to better retention at a time of labour shortage.
Board characteristics and firm innovation: a qualitative comparative analysis
Authors: Liu Yexin , Zhou Ziqing , Wu Weiwei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Although the literature has highlighted that a firm’s board is critical for firm innovation, the impact of board characteristics on firm innovation has always been examined separately, leading to inconclusive research results. Based on the complexity theory, this paper incorporates four board characteristics, including board size, board ownership, board independence and CEO duality, to examine the impact of the combinations of different board characteristics on firm innovation through qualitative comparative analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the panel data of listed manufacturing firms in China from 2007 to 2022, this paper conducted the fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The research results show that no single board characteristic can explain firm innovation, as board size, board ownership, board independence and CEO duality can lead to either positive or negative firm innovation. Moreover, firm innovation depends on a complex combination of board characteristics.

Originality/value

This paper makes the following contributions: Firstly, this paper advances the firm innovation literature by extending the role of board characteristics on firm innovation, thereby offering a new way to model firm innovation in terms of board characteristics. Secondly, this paper provides a more comprehensive account of the role of a firm’s board by integrating agency theory and resource dependence theory. Thirdly, this paper also identifies a promising avenue for further research in the field of corporate governance: the investigation of other contingency contexts in which the effect of board characteristics may be observed, with the aim of further increasing the understanding of board functioning.
Advising elite performers: the role of intuition, trust and expertise
Authors: Cottam Ed , Jha Pushkar.P.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Decision-makers often struggle to combine advice with their own intuition. This study examines how advice-giver traits and decision-makers’ intuition influence advice uptake. We present a novel typology based on decision-makers’ trust in advice-givers and their perceived expertise.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study uses a sample of publicly available interview data with 51 elite performers. Using inductive and content analysis, we explore the mediation between decision-makers’ intuitive competence (ability to effectively deploy intuition in interface with advice) and their autonomy (self-endorsement from past performance).

Findings

We identify four sources of advice: mentor advice, specialist advice, confidant advice and commentator advice. Drawing on instances of different sources of advice along varying degrees of trust and expertise, we propose a framework for interaction between intuitional competence and advice characteristics.

Originality/value

We offer a novel way of contextualising nuanced forms of advice and provide a structured typology of sources, characterised by trust and expertise. This typology and our findings help reconcile contradictions in decision-making research. Finally, we offer practical guidance for the uptake of advice.
Toward customized flexural properties of additively manufactured architected lattice beams via grading struts cross-section and targeted designed unit cell distributions
Authors: Rico-Baeza Genaro , Cuan-Urquizo Enrique , Perez-Soto Gerardo I. , Camarillo-Gomez Karla A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the study of flexural properties of architected lattice beams composed of modified body-centered cubic (BCC) structures when such are additively manufactured with the liquid crystal display method. The BCC topology was modified by grading the dimensions of the cross-sections of the struts that compose them and their targeted distribution within the lattice beam.

Design/methodology/approach

Six gradations of strut cross-sections were proposed, and their effective stiffness was evaluated in compression finite element (FE) simulations. These were compared and categorized according to their stiffness. Then, these were distributed and arranged in a targeted manner, following two approaches: longitudinal and transversal. Experimental three-point bending tests and FE simulations were performed to characterize their effective flexural properties. The properties of targeted distributions were contrasted with those of uniform distributions.

Findings

Although the structures with longitudinal and transverse distribution presented the same relative density, they demonstrated different stiffness and strength. Beams with longitudinal distribution were 77% stiffer than those with transverse distribution. The method proposed here demonstrates how the effective mechanical properties and failure modes can be tailored by modifying the material arrangement in engineered structures while keeping the amount of material used constant.

Originality/value

The flexural properties of lattice beams with two types of grading and unit cell arrangements were studied. The literature has not deeply studied such a double degree of matter distribution and arrangement in structures.
Establishment of European Style Silk Filature in Shanghai at the Beginning of the Twentieth Century: Case of Jardine Matheson & Co. Reflected in the Morel‐Journel Archives
Authors: SHI XIAOXUAN
Published: September 2024

This article discusses how the Ewo filature, a European style silk filature owned by Jardine Matheson & Co., was organised in Shanghai at the beginning of the twentieth century. With the rich documents of the Morel‐Journel Archives, we were able to probe and get a glimpse into the functioning of this foreign establishment by analysing the composition of its personnel and the costs. As far as the quality of silk is concerned, plenty of efforts were made to guarantee a better quality than locally produced silks, such as by adopting European style machines; moreover, attention was paid to the water used in silk reeling, to the selection of cocoons, and to the supervision system for labourers. The findings show that the filature was running as a modern factory and that the productivity of the female reelers was comparable to that of an Italian filature in Europe. Although running with technologically advanced machines and under modern factory managerial organization, the Ewo filature, as well as those similar ones resulted from the spillover of Western technology, was not able to be profitable; moreover, in the historical context of China, stuck in political turmoil, at the beginning of the twentieth century, the union of Western capital, technology and managerial organization failed to achieve a real industrial revolution in the silk reeling sector.
Autotaxin concentrations in peritoneal dialysis effluent reflect peritoneal function
Authors: Horikoshi Keisuke , Sakai Norihiko , Oshima Megumi , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Ikeda Megumi , Hayashi Kaho , Yanagisawa Hiroyoshi , Yamamori Fumitaka , Kajikawa Sho , Hayashi Daiki , Koshino Akihiko , Sako Keisuke , Yuasa Takahiro , Tamai Akira , Minami Taichiro , Nakagawa Shiori , Kitajima Shinji , Toyama Tadashi , Hara Akinori , Shimizu Miho , Oota Satoshi , Ishida Yoichi , Wada Takashi , Iwata Yasunori
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Peritoneal equilibration test (PET) has been used to monitor peritoneal function. A more convenient marker would be useful in clinical situations including home medical care. Autotaxin is known to leak into the interstitium as vascular permeability increases during the progression of tissue fibrosis. Therefore, we hypothesized that autotaxin concentrations in peritoneal dialysis (PD) effluent might reflect peritoneal function.

Methods

This study enrolled 45 patients undergoing PD from 2016 to 2021. Autotaxin concentrations measured in PD effluent were evaluated for their associations with markers obtained from PET.

Results

Mean age was 69 years, and 33 patients were men. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that autotaxin concentrations are associated with dialysate/plasma creatinine ratio, end/start dialysate glucose ratio, and the dip in the dialysate sodium concentration, a marker of ultrafiltration capacity, at baseline (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Autotaxin concentrations in PD effluent might be an adjunct marker that reflects peritoneal function.
Interpretable machine learning models for the prediction of all‐cause mortality and time to death in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Chen Minjie , Zeng Youbing , Liu Mengting , Li Zhenghui , Wu Jiazhen , Tian Xuan , Wang Yunuo , Xu Yuanwen
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The elevated mortality and hospitalization rates among hemodialysis (HD) patients underscore the necessity for the development of accurate predictive tools. This study developed two models for predicting all‐cause mortality and time to death—one using a comprehensive database and another simpler model based on demographic and clinical data without laboratory tests.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 2017 to June 2023. Two models were created: Model A with 85 variables and Model B with 22 variables. We assessed the models using random forest (RF), support vector machine, and logistic regression, comparing their performance via the AU‐ROC. The RF regression model was used to predict time to death. To identify the most relevant factors for prediction, the Shapley value method was used.

Results

Among 359 HD patients, the RF model provided the most reliable prediction. The optimized Model A showed an AU‐ROC of 0.86 ± 0.07, a sensitivity of 0.86, and a specificity of 0.75 for predicting all‐cause mortality. It also had an R2 of 0.59 for predicting time to death. The optimized Model B had an AU‐ROC of 0.80 ± 0.06, a sensitivity of 0.81, and a specificity of 0.70 for predicting all‐cause mortality. In addition, it had an R2 of 0.81 for predicting time to death.

Conclusion

Two new interpretable clinical tools have been proposed to predict all‐cause mortality and time to death in HD patients using machine learning models. The minimal and readily accessible data on which Model B is based makes it a valuable tool for integrating into clinical decision‐making processes.
Intraoperative QTc interval interpretation: Effects of anaesthesia, ECG, correction formulae, sex, and current limits
Authors: Krönauer Thomas , Mihatsch Lorenz L. , Friederich Patrick
Published: September 2024

Background

Severe QT interval prolongation requires monitoring QTc intervals during anaesthesia with recommended therapeutic interventions at a threshold of 500 ms. The need for 12‐lead ECG and lack of standardisation limit such monitoring. We determined whether automated continuous intraoperative QTc monitoring with 5‐lead ECG measures QTc intervals comparable to 12‐lead ECG and whether the interpretation of QTc intervals depends on the correction formulae and the patient's sex. We compared intraoperative QTc times to QTc times from resting ECGs of a population from the same region, to substantiate the hypothesis that patients under general anaesthesia may need specific treatment thresholds.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, intraoperative QT/QTc intervals were automatically recorded using 12 and 5‐lead ECG in 100 patients (44% males). QTc values were analysed for sex and formula‐specific aspects after correction for heart rate according to Bazett, Fridericia, Hodges, Framingham, Charbit and QTcRAS, and compared to a regional community‐based cohort. The level of significance was set to α = 0.05.

Results

QT interval duration was not significantly different between 12‐lead and 5‐lead ECG (difference − 0.09 ms ± 8.5 ms, p = 0.793). The QTc interval duration significantly differed between the correction formulae (p < 0.001) and between sexes (p < 0.001). Mean intraoperative QTc duration was higher than in resting ECGs from a large community‐based population with the same regional background (438 vs. 417 ms). The incidence of prolonged values >500 ms significantly depended on the correction formula (p < 0.001) and was up to tenfold higher in women versus men.

Conclusion

Intraoperative QTc interval measurement using a 5‐lead ECG is valid. Correction formulae and gender influence the intraoperative QTc interval duration and the incidence of pathologically prolonged values according to current limits. The consideration and definition of sex‐specific normal limits for QTc times under general anaesthesia, therefore, warrant further investigation.
The incidence of visual impairment due to retinitis pigmentosa has declined in Finland over the last 40 years
Authors: Mosallaei Paula , Purola Petri , Tolkkinen Laura , Gissler Mika , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To study the changes in incidence, age at onset and severity of visual impairment (VI) due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in the Years 1980–2019, and the incidence and age at diagnosis of hereditary retinal dystrophy (HRD) diagnoses coded by ICD10 H35.5 in the Years 1998–2019 in Finland.

Methods

A total of 1606 persons with VI due to RP registered by the Finnish Register of Visual Impairment and total of 4291 HRD diagnoses registered by the Care Register of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare were included. VI was classified according to the Finnish national definitions derived from the WHO definitions. The significance of the changes in incidence and age at onset were tested with statistical tests (Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney U and Cochran‐Armitage). Two‐tailed p‐value below 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The incidence of VI due to RP has decreased from 0.96/100 000 in the 1980s to 0.55/100 000 in the 2010s (p 0.004). The age at onset of VI has increased from 41.6 to 50.3 years. The severity of VI has not changed. The incidence of HRD diagnoses has decreased from 3.66/100 000 in the 2000s to 2.86/100 000 in the 2010s (p 0.024). The age at diagnosis has risen in male patients from 42.1 to 44.5 years (p 0.024).

Conclusion

The VI caused by RP in Finland has decreased. It develops at an older age than in the past. We hypothesize that this trend may be attributed to informed decisions by visually impaired persons to refrain from having offspring to prevent the transmission of hereditary mutations. The severity of VI due to RP has remained relatively unchanged. The incidence of HRD diagnoses has decreased, and the diagnosis occurs at an older age among men.
Midterm results after allogeneic simple limbal epithelial transplantation from deceased‐donor eyes in patients with persistent corneal epithelial defects due to limbal stem cell deficiency
Authors: Riedl Jana C. , Wasielica‐Poslednik Joanna , Giers Bert C. , Buonfiglio Francesco , Pfeiffer Norbert , Musayeva Aytan , Gericke Adrian
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aims to characterize the clinical outcomes after allogeneic simple limbal epithelial transplantation (alloSLET) utilizing tissue from cadaveric donor eyes to address persistent corneal epithelial defects caused by limbal stem cell deficiency.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records from 20 patients, encompassing 24 eyes, who underwent alloSLET at least 2 years prior. The primary endpoint was the achievement of complete epithelialization of the corneal surface by corneal epithelium. Secondary endpoints included corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and postoperative adverse events.

Results

The median postoperative follow‐up period was 36 months (range, 24–74 months). At 1, 3 and 6 months post‐surgery, 96% of eyes demonstrated epithelialized corneal surfaces, which declined to 71% at 12 months, to 54% at 24 and 36 months after surgery, and to 50% thereafter. There were no significant differences in graft survival between alloSLET performed alone versus in combination with penetrating keratoplasty. However, instances of graft failure were associated with postoperative elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and a history of multiple amniotic membrane and corneal graft transplants.

Conclusions

AlloSLET emerges as a viable mid‐term intervention for limbal stem cell deficiency‐associated non‐healing corneal epithelial defects in the absence of autologous limbal tissue. Our findings underscore the increased risk of graft failure in patients with elevated IOP and a background of multiple previous amniotic membrane and corneal graft procedures.
The effect of manufacturing growth in Vietnam: the test of Kaldor's first law
Authors: Tsukada Yuta
Published: September 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of manufacturing growth by testing Kaldor's first law. The contributions of this study are as follows: (1) testing the effect of Kaldor's first law while considering Vietnam's recent manufacturing development, (2) clarifying which industries have the weakest effect, and (3) proposing a policy direction to expand the effect to the entire Vietnamese economy. The empirical analysis identified that the effect on the service industry is lower than that in other key Southeast Asian countries, as Vietnam's foreign dependency on the service industry for manufacturing exports is higher than theirs. To maximise this effect, the Vietnamese government should encourage the development of a support industry related to manufacturing and appeal to multi‐national corporations for investment.
GLP‐1 receptor agonists: A new frontier in combating metabolic liver disease complications
Authors: Fatima Ayesha , Maryam Ayesha , Nadeem Muhammad Salman , Asmat Kashaf Noor
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Elsaid et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17925
Letter: Prospective evaluation of patients with non‐cirrhotic portal hypertension—A single‐centre study
Authors: Ucdal Mete , Simsek Cem , Durak Bahaddin , Balaban Hatice Yasemin
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mironova et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17987 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18292
Eight‐year efficacy and safety of tenofovir alafenamide for treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection: Final results from two randomised phase 3 trials
Authors: Buti Maria , Lim Young‐Suk , Chan Henry Lik Yuen , Agarwal Kosh , Marcellin Patrick , Brunetto Maurizia R. , Chuang Wan‐Long , Janssen Harry L. A. , Fung Scott K. , Izumi Namiki , Jablkowski Maciej S. , Abdurakhmanov Dzhamal , Abramov Frida , Wang Hongyuan , Botros Irina , Yee Leland J. , Mateo Roberto , Flaherty John F. , Osinusi Anu , Pan Calvin Q. , Shalimar X. , Seto Wai‐Kay , Gane Edward J.
Published: September 2024

Background

In two phase 3 studies, tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) showed non‐inferior efficacy versus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), with more favourable renal and bone safety in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Aims

Here, we report the studies' final 8‐year results.

Methods

CHB patients (hepatitis B e antigen [HBeAg]‐negative and HBeAg‐positive) were randomised (2:1) to double‐blind TAF 25 mg/day or TDF 300 mg/day for up to 3 years, followed by open‐label (OL) TAF through year 8. Virological, biochemical, serological and fibrosis responses, and safety, including bone and renal parameters, were evaluated. Resistance to TAF was assessed annually by deep sequencing of polymerase/reverse transcriptase and by phenotyping.

Results

Among 1298 patients randomised to double‐blind TAF (n = 866) or double‐blind TDF (n = 432), 775 in the TAF group and 382 in the TDF group received OL TAF, including 180 and 202 who switched from TDF to TAF at year 2 (TDF2y → TAF6y) or year 3 (TDF3y → TAF5y), respectively. At year 8, among patients in the TAF8y, TDF2y → TAF6y and TDF3y → TAF5y groups, 69%, 66% and 73% (missing‐equals‐failure analysis) and 95%, 94% and 97% (missing‐equals‐excluded) of patients, respectively, achieved HBV DNA <29 IU/mL. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (Cockcroft‐Gault method; eGFRCG) and hip/spine bone mineral density (BMD) remained stable in patients receiving double‐blind/OL TAF, with only small declines at year 8. Decreases in eGFRCG and hip/spine BMD observed during double‐blind TDF improved after switching to OL TAF. No patients developed resistance to TAF.

Conclusion

Long‐term TAF treatment exhibited favourable safety and tolerability with high rates of viral suppression and no development of resistance.

ClinicalTrials.gov numbers NCT01940341 and NCT01940471.
Letter: Prospective evaluation of patients with non‐cirrhotic portal hypertension—A single centre study. Authors' reply
Authors: Mironova Maria , Gopalakrishna Harish , Heller Theo
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mironova et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17987 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18255
Population pharmacokinetic and dose–response models of nepadutant, a selective antagonist of the NK2 receptors, in infants with colic
Authors: Jönsson Siv , Bouchene Salim , Mazzei Paolo , Borella Elisa , Piana Chiara , Tagliavini Alessia , Koletzko Sibylle , Werkstetter Katharina , Capriati Angela , Pellacani Andrea , Karlsson Mats O. , Jonsson E. Niclas
Published: September 2024

Aims

The aim of the current analyses was to develop a population pharmacokinetic model for nepadutant in infants with colic, and a pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic model based on observations of duration of crying and fussing following oral nepadutant administration in infants (3–25 weeks) with colic.

Methods

The models were developed based on data obtained at baseline and following treatment with placebo, nepadutant 0.1 mg/kg or nepadutant 0.5 mg/kg administered for 7 days. A continuous response variable, duration of crying and fussing in minutes within 2 h interval, was assembled based on records from “baby's day” diary.

Results

The pharmacokinetics of nepadutant was described by a one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination with body weight as a structural covariate incorporated allometrically. For an infant weighing 5.3 kg, the estimated apparent clearance was 68.6 L/h (12% relative standard error) and exhibited large variability (78% coefficient of variation). The pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic model described (i) a circadian rhythm in the response with lowest and highest observations at 4 a.m. and 9 p.m., respectively, (ii) a placebo effect increasing and flattening out with time in an exponential manner, and (iii) a statistically significant (P < .01) linearly increasing response with dose. The observed and model predicted relative change in response from baseline was −35% and −28% (95% prediction interval −36%; −19%) following placebo, and −44% and −36% (−46%; −27%) after 0.5 mg/kg.

Conclusions

Population pharmacokinetic and dose–response models were successfully developed characterizing the available nepadutant pharmacokinetics and duration of crying and fussing data in infants.
Activation of Piezo1 by intracranial hypertension induced neuronal apoptosis via activating hippo pathway
Authors: Zeng Jia , Fang Zhen , Duan Jiajia , Zhang Zichen , Wang Yunzhi , Wang Yiping , Chen Lei , Wang Jikai , Liu Fei
Published: September 2024

Aim

Most of the subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients experienced the symptom of severe headache caused by intracranial hypertension. Piezo1 is a mechanosensitive ion channel protein. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Piezo1 on neurons in response to intracranial hypertension.

Methods

The SAH rat model was performed by the modified endovascular perforation method. Piezo1 inhibitor GsMTx4 was administered intraperitoneally after SAH induction. To investigate the underlying mechanism, the selective Piezo1 agonist Yoda1, Piezo1 shRNA, and MY‐875 were administered via intracerebroventricular injection before SAH induction. In vitro, we designed a pressurizing device to exclusively explore the effect of Piezo1 activation on primary neurons. Neurons were pretreated with Piezo1 inhibition followed by intracranial hypertension treatment, and then apoptosis‐related proteins were detected.

Results

Piezo1 inhibition significantly attenuated neuronal apoptosis and improved the outcome of neurological deficits in rats after SAH. The Hippo pathway agonist MY‐875 reversed the anti‐apoptotic effects of Piezo1 knockdown. In vitro, intracranial hypertension mimicked by the pressurizing device induced Piezo1 expression, resulting in Hippo pathway activation and neuronal apoptosis. The Hippo pathway inhibitor Xmu‐mp‐1 attenuated Yoda1‐induced neuronal apoptosis. In addition, the combination of hypertension and oxyhemoglobin treatment exacerbated neuronal apoptosis.

Conclusions

Intracranial hypertension induced Piezo1 expression, neuronal apoptosis, and the Hippo pathway activation; the Hippo signaling pathway is involved in Piezo1 activation‐induced neuronal apoptosis in respond to intracranial hypertension. Primary neurons treated with intracranial hypertension and oxyhemoglobin together can better characterize the circumstance of SAH in vivo, which is contributed to construct an ideal in vitro SAH model.
Vitamin D3 Attenuates Neuropathic Pain via Suppression of Mitochondria‐Associated Ferroptosis by Inhibiting PKCα/NOX4 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Wencui , Yu Shangchen , Jiao Bo , Zhang Caixia , Zhang Kaiwen , Liu Baowen , Zhang Xianwei
Published: September 2024

Aims

Neuropathic pain remains a significant unmet medical challenge due to its elusive mechanisms. Recent clinical observations suggest that vitamin D (VitD) holds promise in pain relief, yet its precise mechanism of action is still unclear. This study explores the therapeutical role and potential mechanism of VitD3 in spared nerve injury (SNI)‐induced neuropathic pain rat model.

Methods

The analgesic effects and underlying mechanisms of VitD3 were evaluated in SNI and naïve rat models. Mechanical allodynia was assessed using the Von Frey test. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, biochemical assay, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were employed to investigate the molecular and cellular effects of VitD3.

Results

Ferroptosis was observed in the spinal cord following SNI. Intrathecal administration of VitD3, the active form of VitD, activated the vitamin D receptor (VDR), suppressed ferroptosis, and alleviated mechanical nociceptive behaviors. VitD3 treatment preserved spinal GABAergic interneurons, and its neuroprotective effects were eliminated by the ferroptosis inducer RSL3. Additionally, VitD3 mitigated aberrant mitochondrial morphology and oxidative metabolism in the spinal cord. Mechanistically, VitD3 inhibited SNI‐induced activation of spinal PKCα/NOX4 signaling. Inhibition of PKCα/NOX4 signaling alleviated mechanical pain hypersensitivity, accompanied by reduced ferroptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction in SNI rats. Conversely, activation of PKCα/NOX4 signaling in naïve rats induced hyperalgesia, ferroptosis, loss of GABAergic interneurons, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the spinal cord, all of which were reversed by VitD3 treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence that VitD3 attenuates neuropathic pain by preserving spinal GABAergic interneurons through the suppression of mitochondria‐associated ferroptosis mediated by PKCα/NOX4 signaling, probably via VDR activation. VitD, alone or in combination with existing analgesics, presents an innovative therapeutic avenue for neuropathic pain.
Dynamic transcriptomic and regulatory networks underpinning the transition from fetal primordial germ cells to spermatogonia in mice
Authors: Zhao Jiexiang , Tang Kang , Jiang Gurong , Yang Xinyan , Cui Manman , Wan Cong , Ouyang Zhaoxiang , Zheng Yi , Liu Zhaoting , Wang Mei , Zhao Xiao‐Yang , Chang Gang
Published: September 2024

The transition from fetal primordial germ cells (PGCs) to spermatogonia (SPG) is critical for male germ cell development; however, the detailed transcriptomic dynamics and regulation underlying this transition remain poorly understood. Here by interrogating the comprehensive transcriptome atlas dataset of mouse male germ cells and gonadal cells development, we elucidated the regulatory networks underlying this transition. Our single‐cell transcriptome analysis revealed that the transition from PGCs to SPG was characterized by global hypertranscription. A total of 315 highly active regulators were identified to be potentially involved in this transition, among which a non‐transcription factor (TF) regulator TAGLN2 was validated to be essential for spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) maintenance and differentiation. Metabolism profiling analysis also revealed dynamic changes in metabolism‐related gene expression during PGC to SPG transition. Furthermore, we uncovered that intricate cell–cell communication exerted potential functions in the regulation of hypertranscription in germ cells by collaborating with stage‐specific active regulators. Collectively, our work extends the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying male germ cell development, offering insights into the recapitulation of germ cell generation in vitro.
ChatGPT Solving Complex Kidney Transplant Cases: A Comparative Study With Human Respondents
Authors: Mankowski Michal A. , Jaffe Ian S. , Xu Jingzhi , Bae Sunjae , Oermann Eric K. , Aphinyanaphongs Yindalon , McAdams‐DeMarco Mara A. , Lonze Bonnie E. , Orandi Babak J. , Stewart Darren , Levan Macey , Massie Allan , Gentry Sommer , Segev Dorry L.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

ChatGPT has shown the ability to answer clinical questions in general medicine but may be constrained by the specialized nature of kidney transplantation. Thus, it is important to explore how ChatGPT can be used in kidney transplantation and how its knowledge compares to human respondents.

Methods

We prompted ChatGPT versions 3.5, 4, and 4 Visual (4 V) with 12 multiple‐choice questions related to six kidney transplant cases from 2013 to 2015 American Society of Nephrology (ASN) fellowship program quizzes. We compared the performance of ChatGPT with US nephrology fellowship program directors, nephrology fellows, and the audience of the ASN's annual Kidney Week meeting.

Results

Overall, ChatGPT 4 V correctly answered 10 out of 12 questions, showing a performance level comparable to nephrology fellows (group majority correctly answered 9 of 12 questions) and training program directors (11 of 12). This surpassed ChatGPT 4 (7 of 12 correct) and 3.5 (5 of 12). All three ChatGPT versions failed to correctly answer questions where the consensus among human respondents was low.

Conclusion

Each iterative version of ChatGPT performed better than the prior version, with version 4 V achieving performance on par with nephrology fellows and training program directors. While it shows promise in understanding and answering kidney transplantation questions, ChatGPT should be seen as a complementary tool to human expertise rather than a replacement.
Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White: Children Appreciate Reasoners Who Approach Moral Dilemmas With Humility
Authors: Li Pearl Han , Kushnir Tamar
Published: September 2024

Moral decisions often involve dilemmas: cases of conflict between competing obligations. In two studies (N = 204), we ask whether children appreciate that reasoning through dilemmas involves acknowledging that there is no single, simple solution. In Study 1, 5‐ to 8‐year‐old US children were randomly assigned to a Moral Dilemma condition, in which story characters face dilemmas between two prosocial actions, or a Personal Cost control, in which story characters face decisions between a matched prosocial action and a self‐interested action. Children were then presented with two reasoners who made the same judgment, but one confidently endorsed one moral action, and the other hesitantly acknowledged both actions. As they aged, children became more likely to prefer the uncertain reasoner's “way of thinking” in the Moral Dilemma compared to the Personal Cost condition. They also inferred that the uncertain reasoner was nicer and more trustworthy than the confident one. In Study 2, when both reasoners acknowledged the dilemma and differed only in their level of uncertainty, 5‐year‐olds preferred the acknowledgment to be accompanied by a confident decision, 6‐ and 7‐year‐olds preferred it be accompanied by uncertainty, and 8‐year‐olds showed no preference. These results show that, before the age at which children can resolve dilemmas successfully on their own, they recognize and value others who approach dilemmas with appropriate humility.
No Self‐Reference, No Ownership?
Authors: Ritter Bernhard
Published: September 2024

A ‘no‐ownership’ or ‘no‐self theory’ holds that there is no proper subject of experience; the ownership of experience can only be accounted for by invoking a sub‐personal entity. In the recent self‐versus‐no‐self debate, it is widely assumed that the no‐ referent view of ‘I’, which is closely associated with Wittgenstein and G. E. M. Anscombe, implies a no‐ownership theory of experience. I spell out this assumption with regard to both non‐reflective and reflective consciousness and show that it is false. If the so‐called ‘self’ is an individual, the person, nothing more is required for the ownership of sensations than the non‐reflective experiencing, undergoing, or suffering of them, whereas the sense of ‘ownership’ of reflective consciousness varies according to the type of ‘I’‐thought in question. Ownership of ‘I’‐thoughts about one’s own actions, for one thing, is a matter of being able to fit future actions to them or answer questions as to why one is doing what one does.
Reflections on statutory cohabitation law reform in Ireland: Past, present & future post‐O'Meara? 1024 (October 2024/nonmarriage roundtable)
Authors: O'Sullivan Kathryn
Published: September 2024

Part 15 of the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010 governs the breakdown of cohabiting relationships in the Republic of Ireland. However, although the introduction of the statutory redress scheme under the 2010 Act was considered an important response to the growing need for the protection of vulnerable cohabitants, the extent to which it has provided such protection has remained somewhat obscure. This contribution reflects on what we know about the operation of the scheme as currently framed and questions what scope might exist for it to be gently reformed going forward.
Childhood, Migration and the Pursuit of Happiness in MIDDLE‐CLASS EAST ASIA
Authors: Beck Fanni , Nyíri Pál , Gaspar Sofia
Published: September 2024

This special issue explores the shifting landscape of global middle‐class migration within and from East Asia by taking the relationship between mobility, parenting ideals and changing educational desires as its focus. Contributions explore how East Asian middle‐class families balance the emergent emphasis on their children's well‐being with the demands of global competitiveness as these often‐antagonistic desires are projected onto old and new migration destinations against the background of global geopolitical and economic power shifts. Instead of reifying the simplistic binary of hierarchical, achievement‐oriented East Asian ‘Confucian educational norms’ versus democratic, well‐being‐focussed Western ideals, the contributions offer a nuanced understanding of how these educational ideals coexist within the social, cultural, political and economic contexts of families. By carefully assessing the dialectically entwined intimate experiences of parents and children, the articles collected here set out to broaden our understanding of how middle‐class families in Singapore, South Korea, Japan and China attempt to negotiate the tension between prioritizing children's happiness and maintaining global competitiveness result in a variety of strategies from migrating to less obvious international destinations to crafting domestic alternatives. Taken together, the articles reveal consistent patterns of middle‐class migration and child‐rearing decisions that contest and reshape conventional notions of success, attesting to a shift in global middle‐class migration trends and to the importance of child‐rearing in migratory decisions.