bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dopamine D1-receptor Organization Contributes to Functional Brain Architecture
Authors: Pedersen Robin , Johansson Jarkko , Nordin Kristin , Rieckmann Anna , Wåhlin Anders , Nyberg Lars , Bäckman Lars , Salami Alireza
Published: March 2023

Decades of research on functional brain mapping have highlighted the importance of understanding the functional organization of the cerebral cortex. Recent advances have revealed a gradient of functional organization spanning from primary sensory to transmodal cortices. This gradient-like axis of connectivity has been hypothesized to be aligned with regional differences in the density of neuromodulatory receptors. Recent work in non-human primates supports this notion, revealing a gradient of dopamine D1-like receptor (D1DR) density along the cortical hierarchy. Given the importance of dopaminergic modulation for synaptic activity and neural gain, we tested whether D1DRs shares the same organizational principles as brain function in humans, and whether inter-regional relationships in D1 expression modulate functional crosstalk. Using the world’s largest combined dopamine D1DR-PET and MRI database, we provided empirical support for the first time in humans that the landscape of D1DR availability follows a unimodal-transmodal cortical hierarchy, with greater D1DR expression in associative cortical regions. We found an organization of inter-regional D1DR co-expression spanning unimodal to transmodal brain regions, expressing a high spatial correspondence to the principal macroscale gradient of functional connectivity. Critically, we found that individual differences in D1DR density between unimodal and transmodal regions was associated with greater differentiation of default-mode and somatosensory networks. Finally, inter-regional D1DR co-expression was found to modulate couplings within, but not between, functional networks. Together, our results show that D1DR co-expression provides a biomolecular layer to the functional organization of the brain.

Significance Statement

We found a high correspondence between the organization of the most abundantly expressed dopamine receptor subtype and a macroscale unimodal-to-transmodal functional gradient. Differences in D1 density between unimodal and transmodal regions were related to the shape of the functional gradient, contributing to greater differentiation of somatomotor and default mode networks. Finally, we observed that the covariance structure of dopamine D1 receptors is associated with the strength of connectivity within functional networks. The discovery of a dopaminergic layer of brain organization represents a crucial first step towards an understanding of how dopamine, with close ties to behavior and neuropsychiatric conditions, potentially contribute to the emergence of functional brain organization.
Retigabine and gabapentin restore channel function and neuronal firing of an epilepsy-associated dominant-negativeKCNQ5variant
Authors: Krüger Johanna , Lerche Holger
Published: March 2023

Objective

KCNQ5encodes the voltage-gated potassium channel KV7.5, a member of the KV7 channel family, which conducts the M-current. This current was shown to be a potent regulator of neuronal excitability by mediating the medium and slow afterhyperpolarization. Recently, we have identified five loss-of-function variants inKCNQ5in patients with genetic generalized epilepsy. Using the most severe dominant-negative variant p.(Arg359Cys) (R359C), we set out to investigate pharmacological therapeutic intervention by KV7 channel openers on channel function and neuronal firing.

Methods

Whole-cell patch clamp recordings were conducted in human embryonic kidney cells to investigate the immediate effect of retigabine, gabapentin and intracellular application of zinc on the R359C variant in absence and presence of KV7.5-WT subunits. Transfected primary hippocampal cultures were used to examine the effect of R359C on neuronal firing and whether this effect could be reversed by drug application.

Results

Retigabine and gabapentin both increased R359C-derived K+current density and M-current amplitudes in both homomeric and heteromeric mutant KV7.5 channels. Retigabine was most effective in restoring K+currents. Ten µM retigabine was sufficient to reach the level of WT currents without retigabine, whereas 100 µM of gabapentin showed less than half of this effect and application of 50 µM zinc only significantly increased M-current amplitude in heteromeric channels. Overexpression of KV7.5-WT potently inhibited neuronal firing by increasing the M-current, and medium afterhyperpolarization, whereas R359C overexpression had the opposite effect. All three aforementioned drugs reversed the effect of R359C reducing firing to nearly normal levels at high current injections.

Significance

Our study shows that a dominant-negative complete loss-of-function variant in KV7.5 leads to largely increased neuronal firing indicating a neuronal hyperexcitability. KV7 channel openers, such as retigabine or gabapentin, could be treatment options for otherwise pharmacoresistant epilepsy patients carrying loss-of-function variants inKCNQ5.
Positive and biphasic extracellular waveforms correspond to return currents and axonal spikes
Authors: Someck Shirly , Levi Amir , Sloin Hadas E. , Spivak Lidor , Gattegno Roni , Stark Eran
Published: March 2023

Multiple biophysical mechanisms may generate non-negative extracellular waveforms during action potentials, but the origin and prevalence of positive spikes and biphasic spikes in the intact brain are unknown. Using extracellular recordings from densely-connected cortical networks in freely-moving mice, we find that a tenth of the waveforms are non-negative. Positive phases of non-negative spikes occur in synchrony or just before wider same-unit negative spikes. Narrow positive spikes occur in isolation in the white matter. Isolated biphasic spikes are narrower than negative spikes, occurring right after spikes of verified inhibitory units. In CA1, units with dominant non-negative spikes exhibit place fields, phase precession, and phase-locking to ripples. Thus, near-somatic narrow positive extracellular potentials correspond to return currents, and isolated non-negative spikes correspond to axonal potentials. Identifying non-negative extracellular waveforms that correspond to non-somatic compartments during spikes can enhance the understanding of physiological and pathological neural mechanisms in intact animals.
Two long-axis dimensions of hippocampal cortical integration support memory function across the adult lifespan
Authors: Nordin Kristin , Pedersen Robin , Falahati Farshad , Johansson Jarkko , Grill Filip , Andersson Micael , Korkki Saana M , Backman Lars , Zalesky Andrew , Rieckmann Anna , Nyberg Lars , Salami Alireza
Published: March 2023

The hippocampus is a complex structure critically involved in numerous behavior-regulating systems. In young adults, multiple overlapping spatial modes along its longitudinal and transverse axes describe the organization of its functional integration with neocortex, extending the traditional framework emphasizing functional differences between sharply segregated hippocampal subregions. Yet, it remains unknown whether these modes (i.e., gradients) persist across the adult human lifespan, and relate to memory and molecular markers associated with brain function and cognition. In two independent samples, we demonstrate that the principal anteroposterior and second-order, mid-to-anterior/posterior hippocampal modes of neocortical functional connectivity, representing distinct dimensions of macroscale cortical organization, manifest across the adult lifespan. Specifically, individual differences in topography of the second-order gradient predicted episodic memory and mirrored dopamine D1 receptor distribution, capturing shared functional and molecular organization. Older age was associated with less distinct transitions along gradients (i.e., increased functional homogeneity). Importantly, a youth-like gradient profile predicted preserved episodic memory, emphasizing age-related gradient dedifferentiation as a marker of cognitive decline. Our results underscore a critical role of mapping multidimensional hippocampal organization in understanding the neural circuits that support memory across the adult lifespan.
Intronic TNR-RetainedIsopropylmalate Isomerase Large Subunit1transcripts impair leaf development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Yimeng , Li Rui , Kawade Kensuke , Sato Muneo , Kuwahara Ayuko , Sasaki Ryosuke , Oikawa Akira , Tsukaya Hirokazu , Hirai Masami Yokota
Published: March 2023

Intronic trinucleotide repeat (TNR) is widely distributed in plant genomes. In Arabidopsis accession Bur-0, abnormally expanded TTC repeat in intron-3 of theISOPROPYLMALATE ISOMERASE LARGE SUBUNIT1(IIL1) gene causes growth defects called theirregularly impaired leaves(iil) phenotype, triggered by DNA methylation-mediatedIIL1gene silencing at elevated temperature. However, little is known about how the reduced expression ofIIL1causes theiilphenotype. We demonstrated that theiilphenotype was resulted from the relative increase of intron-3-retainedIIL1transcripts through the experiments where theiilphenotype was reproduced by introducing theIIL1gene harboring 100 copies of TTC repeat into Col-0. Theiilphenotype appeared when the total amount of theIIL1transcripts was decreased by co-suppression and the percentage of intron-3-retainedIIL1transcripts was increased. TheIIL1gene encodes an isopropylmalate isomerase large subunit, forming heterodimers with small subunits (AtLeuD1, AtLeuD2, or AtLeuD3). In themyb28 myb29mutant lacking AtLeuD1 and AtLeuD2, theiilphenotype was almost completely suppressed regardless of higher percentage of intron-3-retainedIIL1transcripts. The results indicated that theiilphenotype was associated with interaction with AtLeuDs, suggesting that intronic TNR-containing transcripts were translated into abnormal proteins and perturbed the metabolic pathway supporting the leaf development.
Oligodendrocytes in human iPS cell-derived cortical grafts remyelinate adult rat and human cortical neurons
Authors: Martinez-Curiel Raquel , Jansson Linda , Tsupykov Oleg , Avaliani Natalia , Aretio-Medina Constanza , Hidalgo Isabel , Monni Emanuela , Bengzon Johan , Skibo Galyna , Lindvall Olle , Kokaia Zaal , Palma-Tortosa Sara
Published: March 2023

Neuronal loss and axonal demyelination underlie long-term functional impairments in patients affected by brain disorders such as ischemic stroke. Stem cell-based approaches reconstructing and remyelinating brain neural circuitry, leading to recovery, are highly warranted. Here we demonstrate thein vitroandin vivoproduction of myelinating oligodendrocytes from a human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived long-term neuroepithelial stem (lt-NES) cell line, which also gives rise to neurons with the capacity to integrate into stroke-injured, adult rat cortical networks. Most importantly, the generated oligodendrocytes survive and form myelin ensheathing human axons in the host tissue after grafting onto adult human cortical organotypic cultures. This lt-NES cell line is the first human stem cell source that after intracerebral delivery can repair both injured neural circuitries and demyelinated axons. Our findings provide supportive evidence for the potential future use of human iPS cell-derived cell lines to promote effective clinical recovery following brain injuries.
Proteomic survey of the DNA damage response inCaulobacter crescentus
Authors: Tashjian Tommy F. , Zeinert Rilee D. , Eyles Stephen J. , Chien Peter
Published: March 2023

The bacterial DNA damage response is a critical, coordinated response to endogenous and exogenous sources of DNA damage. Response dynamics are dependent on coordinated synthesis and loss of relevant proteins. While much is known about its global transcriptional control, changes in protein abundance that occur upon DNA damage are less well characterized at the system level. Here, we perform a proteome-wide survey of the DNA damage response inCaulobacter crescentus. We find that while most protein abundance changes upon DNA damage are readily explained by changes in transcription, there are exceptions. The survey also allowed us to identify the novel DNA damage response factor, YaaA, which has been overlooked by previously published, transcription- focused studies.

A similar survey in a Δlonstrain was performed to explorelon’srole in DNA damage survival. The Δlonstrain had a smaller dynamic range of protein abundance changes in general upon DNA damage compared to the wild type strain. This system-wide change to the dynamics of the response may explain this strain’s sensitivity to DNA damage. Our proteome survey of the DNA damage response provides additional insight into the complex regulation of stress response and nominates a novel response factor that was overlooked in prior studies.

IMPORTANCE

The DNA damage response helps bacteria to react to and potentially survive DNA damage. The mutagenesis induced during this stress response contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance. Understanding how bacteria coordinate their response to DNA damage could help us to combat this growing threat to human health. While the transcriptional regulation of the bacterial DNA damage response has been characterized, this study is the first to our knowledge to assess the proteomic response to DNA damage inCaulobacter.
A novel paradigm for operant social learning in rats
Authors: Rautio Ida V. , Holmberg Ella Holt , Kurup Devika , Dunn Benjamin A. , Whitlock Jonathan R.
Published: March 2023

The ability to learn by observing the behavior of others is both energy efficient and brings high survival value, making it an important learning tool for many species in the animal kingdom. As such, several forms of observational learning have been documented in a myriad of species. In the laboratory, rodents have proven useful models for studying different forms of observational learning, however, the most robust learning paradigms typically rely on aversive stimuli, like foot shocks, to drive the social acquisition of fear. Non-fear-based tasks have also been developed, but these rarely succeed in having observer animals perform a new behaviorde novo. Consequently, much less is known regarding the cellular mechanisms supporting non-fear-based types of learning, such as visuomotor skill acquisition. To address this we developed a reward-based social learning paradigm in adult rats, in which observer animals learn to tap lit spheres in a specific sequence by watching skilled demonstrators, with successful trials leading to rewarding intracranial stimulation in both observers and performers. Following three days of observation and a 24-hour delay, observer animals outperformed control animals on several metrics of task performance and efficiency, with a subset of observers demonstrating correct performance immediately when tested. This paradigm thus introduces a novel tool to investigate the neural circuits supporting observational learning and memory for visuomotor behavior, a phenomenon about which little is understood, particularly in rodents.
A neuronal least-action principle for real-time learning in cortical circuits
Authors: Senn Walter , Dold Dominik , Kungl Akos F. , Ellenberger Benjamin , Jordan Jakob , Bengio Yoshua , Sacramento João , Petrovici Mihai A.
Published: March 2023

Abstract

One of the most fundamental laws of physics is the principle of least action. Motivated by its predictive power, we introduce a neuronal least-action principle for cortical processing of sensory streams to produce appropriate behavioural outputs in real time. The principle postulates that the voltage dynamics of cortical pyramidal neurons prospectively minimizes the local somato-dendritic mismatch error within individual neurons. For output neurons, the principle implies minimizing an instantaneous behavioural error. For deep network neurons, it implies the prospective firing to overcome integration delays and correct for possible output errors right in time. The neuron-specific errors are extracted in the apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons through a cortical microcircuit that tries to explain away the feedback from the periphery, and correct the trajectory on the fly. Any motor output is in a moving equilibrium with the sensory input and the motor feedback during the ongoing sensory-motor transform. Online synaptic plasticity reduces the somato-dendritic mismatch error within each cortical neuron and performs gradient descent on the output cost at any moment in time. The neuronal least-action principle offers an axiomatic framework to derive local neuronal and synaptic laws for global real-time computation and learning in the brain.
20 years of Radical Disaster Interpretations: reflections and aspirations (RADIX @ 20!). Conversation on disasters: deconstructed on 13 October 2021
Authors: Alexander Bob , Fordham Maureen , Jigyasu Rohit , Luneta Mayfourth , Wisner Ben
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This conversation presents the reflections from five prominent disaster scholars and practitioners on the purpose of Radix – the Radical Disaster Interpretations network – as the authors celebrate its 20th anniversary.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the conversations that took place on Disasters: Deconstructed Podcast livestream on the 13th October 2021.

Findings

The conversation reflects on personal and professional journeys in disaster studies over the past 20 years and on what needs changing in order to make disaster interpretations more radical.

Originality/value

The conversation contributes to the ongoing discussions around explorations of radical pathways for understanding and preventing disasters.
Mental health at the workplace, person-organization-fit and labor productivity growth: evidence from the Egyptian soap and detergents industry during COVID-19
Authors: Ali Tarek Mohamed , Amankwah-Amoah Joseph , Mostafa Bassant Adel
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study seeks to examine the mediating role of mental health issues in the workplace (MHIW) in explaining the complex relationship between person-organization-fit (P.O-fit) dimensions and workers' productivity (WP) variance during COVID-19 in the Egyptian soap and detergents industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional survey, the authors collected data from 373 frontline workers and supervisors working at ARMA soap and detergents (ASD) factories. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 production-lines and quality-control supervisors. The hypothesized model was analyzed using the partial least square structural equation modeling technique.

Findings

The authors found a significant, high P.O-fit level among ASD workers. The need-supplies-fit and supplementary-fit controlled MHIW. The need-supplies-fit and supplementary-fit alongside MHIW explained the growth in WP during COVID-19. The MHIW mediated the relationship between P.O-fit dimensions and WP during the pandemic.

Research limitations/implications

Limited attention was paid to investigating how the P.O-fit dimensions enable frontline workers to remain productive despite the MHIW associated with COVID-19. This study bridges the aforementioned research gap by elucidating how the supplementary-fit, demand-abilities-fit and need-supplies-fit manipulate MHIW and maintain WP growth during the pandemic.

Practical implications

The findings provide clear guidelines for the first-line supervisors to foster the P.O-fit dimensions, control MHIW and sustain WP growth during COVID-19.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to add significant information on how MHIW (as mediator) explains the relationship between P.O-fit and WP growth during the pandemic.
Cognitive abilities and financial resilience: evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Mundi Hardeep Singh , Vashisht Shailja
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The current study is to examine the association between cognitive abilities and financial resilience among millennial single parents. This study examines the role of cognitive abilities on financial resilience after controlling for key demographic variables – gender, age, university degree, employment status and staying with parents.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the ordered logit regression approach, the authors analyzed results for 395 single parents (237 single mothers and 159 single fathers) aged 31 to 40 in India. Financial resilience is measured using economic resources, financial resources, financial knowledge and behavior, and social capital. The authors further provide several robustness tests to validate their findings. The results are controlled for state-fixed effects.

Findings

The authors find a significant impact of single parents' cognitive abilities on their financial resilience. This study also found that gender, age, university degree, employment status and staying with parents influence single parents' financial resilience. Single mothers are found to have higher levels of both cognitive abilities and financial resilience scores than single fathers.

Practical implications

Financial institutions, marketers and financial advisors can find innovative ways to increase the financial resilience of single parents by improving their cognitive ability. Also, policymakers should focus on interventions to increase single parents' education level to increase their financial resilience and provide policy support to those without any parental support system.

Originality/value

This study extends the literature on financial resilience in two directions – by establishing a relationship between cognitive abilities and financial resilience and studying the financial resilience of a vulnerable societal section-millennial single parents. The study also extends the literature on single parents' financial vulnerability by establishing a relationship between key demographic variables and their financial resilience.
Research and development of honeycomb door of full-side open boxcar and its simulation and vibration test
Authors: Zhou Xiaokun , Xie Suming , He Maosheng , Fu Tingting , Yu Qifeng
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to reduce the weight of the door, improve the operating efficiency and ensure the safety of vehicle operation.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on traditional aluminium alloy doors, a new type of honeycomb composite material was developed. Tests were conducted to determine the honeycomb compression resistance, honeycomb and skin shear performance, plate bending, thermal conductivity and environmental protection. Eight doors were developed based on the full-side open structure, and static strength and stiffness analyses were performed simultaneously. To solve door vibration problems, modal analysis and test were carried out.

Findings

The test results showed that the weight of the door was reduced by more than 40% whilst ensuring the strength and stiffness of the vehicle. The first–sixth-order test mode of the door was increased by more than 14% compared with existing aluminium alloy doors.

Originality/value

A new type of honeycomb composite material was used in this study. The test results showed that the weight of the door was reduced by more than 40% whilst ensuring the strength and stiffness of the vehicle. The 1st-to-6th order test mode of the door was increased by more than 14% compared with the existing aluminium alloy door.
The influence of issue attitude, value involvement and consumer-company identification on consumers’ reactions to corporate social advocacy: a moderated mediation through cognitive dissonance
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Zhou Ziyuan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Employing cognitive dissonance theory, this study examines how consumers’ preexisting attitudes toward an issue, value involvement with the issue and consumer-company identification (CCI) influence their reactions to corporate social advocacy (CSA) through cognitive dissonance.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 conducted a 2 (CSA position: pro vs anti) × 3 (preexisting issue attitude: pro vs neutral vs anti) online quasi-experiment. The CSA messages were created in the context of same-sex marriage(s). Study 2 tested the hypotheses using an online survey in the context of gun control.

Findings

The results indicated that a conflict between consumers’ preexisting attitudes and a corporation’s stance on a controversial issue led to cognitive dissonance, which further led to consumers’ perceptions of the corporation being biased in both studies. Study 1 and Study 2 suggested a mixed effect of cognitive dissonance on participants’ inclination to disidentify with the corporation. Preexisting CCI appeared to have a direct negative influence on cognitive dissonance; however, value involvement and preexisting CCI were not found to significantly enhance the influence of consumers’ attitudes toward CSA on cognitive dissonance.

Originality/value

The study first extended the theoretical discussion of cognitive dissonance to a trendy strategic communication context. The results help public relations practitioners to better understand the segmented public groups and the risk of taking a stance on controversial issues.
Leading teacher instructional practices in Türkiye: do inner school conditions matter?
Authors: Polatcan Mahmut , Özdemir Nedim , Kılınç Ali Çağatay , Zepeda Sally J. , Çevik Salih
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study tested a moderated mediation model of school leadership effects on teacher instructional practices. Specifically, the authors focused on the mediating effect of teacher professional communities and the moderating effect of instructional climate on the relationship between school leadership and teacher instructional practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data from 958 teachers working in 72 middle and high schools in Türkiye and employed multilevel structural equation modelling (MSEM) with Bayesian estimation to predict structural links between the study variables.

Findings

Results affirmed a full mediation model where school leadership practices exerted indirect effects on teacher instructional practices through promoting teacher professional communities. The authors also found significant moderating role of instructional climate in the effect of school leadership on teacher professional communities and instructional practices.

Originality/value

This study illuminates the contextualized nature of school leadership by concluding that the effect of school leadership on teacher professional communities and instructional practices is closely tied to the extent to which a high-quality instructional climate is established in schools.
Dynamics of refugee settlements and energy provision: the case of forest stocks in Zambia
Authors: Weber Anna-Lena , Ruesink Brigitte , Gronau Steven
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This article aims to investigate the impact of (1) the establishment of a refugee settlement, (2) the energy demand of a host and refugee population, (3) the residence time of refugees and (4) interventions in the energy sector on sustainable utilization of the forest.

Design/methodology/approach

Refugee movements from the Democratic Republic of Congo and settlement construction in a Zambian host society provide the setting. An agent-based model is developed. It uses survey data from 277 Zambian households, geographic information system coordinates and supplementary data inputs.

Findings

The future forest stock remains up to 30 years without an influx of refugees. Refugee developments completely deplete the forest over time. The settlement construction severely impacts the forest, while refugees' energy needs seem less significant. Compared with the repatriation of refugees, permanent integration has no influential impact on forest resources. Interventions in the energy sector through alternative sources slow down deforestation. Once a camp is constructed, tree cutting by hosts causes forest covers to decline even if alternative energy is provided.

Practical implications

The analysis is useful for comparable host–refugee settings and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees interventions in settlement situations. Forest and energy sector interventions should involve host and refugee stakeholders.

Originality/value

This article adds value through an agent-based model in the Zambian deforestation–refugee context. The study has a pilot character within the United Nation's Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework. It fills a gap in long-term assessments of refugee presence in local host communities.
Business networking orientation, green operations practices and firm performance
Authors: Hsu Chin-Chun , Tan Keah Choon , Hathaway Brent A. , Zailani Suhaiza
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The authors apply social network theory and natural resource–based view to empirically examine a model of the relationships among business networking (BN) orientation, green operations practices and performance. A firm must achieve appropriate internal green operations practices to capitalize on its external BN orientation and thus be able to establish a competitive advantage and superior performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey data from 132 ISO 14001–certified manufacturing firms in Malaysia, all of which participate in environmental programs and sustainability activities, the authors explore the effects of two BN orientation facets (customer-oriented and supplier-oriented) on green operations practices (green purchasing, eco-design and regulatory practices) and their subsequent influence on environmental and economic performance.

Findings

Structural equation modeling outcomes confirm only one BN orientation facet positively affects green operations practices, nor do the advantages affect economic performance directly. The results illustrate how environmental outcomes mediate the links between green operations practices and economic performance.

Originality/value

Drawing on social network theory and natural resource–based view, authors propose internal green operations practices as a channel through which external BN orientation induces firm performance. Internal green operations practices determine a firm's ability to exploit its external BN orientation to achieve operational competencies and lead to superior performance. Rather than focusing on the social connections generated by external BN orientation itself, the authors recommend that firms address the core competencies contributing to their green operations practices and engage in network building.
Virtual tourist motivation: the differences between virtual tourism and on-site tourism
Authors: Yang Ting-Ting , Ruan Wen-Qi , Li Yong-Quan , Zhang Shu-Ning
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Virtual tourism has become popular in recent years. However, there is still a research gap on virtual tourist motivation. This study aims to identify virtual tourist motivation and explore the relationship between virtual tourism and on-site tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This research identifies virtual tourist motivation based on Means-end chain (MEC) theory. Laddering interviews with 32 respondents were conducted to construct a hierarchical value map. Additionally, a motivation analysis of virtual tourism and on-site tourism was developed based on a review of the relevant literature.

Findings

This exploratory study revealed 12 attributes, 9 results and 4 values that virtual tourists wish to achieve and identified 5 means-end chains where self-satisfaction is the most important value-led motivation. Compared with on-site tourism motivations, virtual tourism shows possibilities of replacing, complementing and extending on-site tourism under certain circumstances. However, it significantly depends on whether tourists are attracted by the technical characteristics, security and experience conditions of virtual tourism.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding virtual tourist motivation and offers motivation-based insights into the relationship between virtual and on-site tourism. Managerial implications on how to attract potential online tourists are also provided.
The Ties that Bind: How Boundary Spanners Create Value in Science‐Based SMEs
Authors: Pattinson Steven , Dawson Patrick
Published: March 2023

How do boundary spanners, through processes of temporal sensemaking, use established and newly forming relationships to create value in science‐based SMEs? In addressing this question, we examine the creation of social capital arising from the activities that boundary spanners use in establishing ‘ties that bind’ people together. We show how effective boundary‐spanning activities are able to promote collaborations across scientific and related disciplines, supporting knowledge generation and innovation. Sensemaking is central to this process. We illustrate how retrospective sensemaking draws on knowledge, skills and experiences, often triggered through historical connections and personal contacts, whilst prospective sensemaking often arose in the search for new customers and in the ongoing assessment of future potential markets. We reveal how combining individual and collective boundary spanning with a continual movement between the backward glance (retrospective) and more future‐oriented (prospective) sensemaking was particularly effective in generating new understandings and opportunities. We use our findings to present an inductive model of value creation that frames the dynamic interplay between individual and collective boundary‐spanning activities and temporal sensemaking in the generation of social capital that acts as a knowledge resource for identifying and evaluating ideas for innovation and future pathways to value creation.
Optimization of the molecular diagnosis of the acute hepatitis E virus infection
Authors: Lopez‐Lopez Pedro , Frias Mario , Perez‐Jimenez Ana Belén , Freyre‐Carrillo Carolina , Pineda Juan A. , Aguilera Antonio , Fuentes Ana , Alados Juan Carlos , Reina Gabriel , Ramirez‐Arellano Encarnación , Viciana Isabel , Mesquita Joao , Caballero‐Gomez Javier , Rivero‐Juarez Antonio , Rivero Antonio ,   for the HEPAVIR and GEHEP‐014 Study Groups
Published: March 2023

To evaluate the diagnostic value of the combination of two broad‐range PCR assays targeting two different and conserved regions of the viral genome for the diagnosis of acute Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. Patients with acute hepatitis were prospectively recruited. In all, HEV‐IgM antibodies were tested together with evaluation of HEV viraemia by two PCR assays (ORF3 and ORF1). The number of individuals exhibiting negative IgM antibody results but carrying viral RNA was calculated by each PCR assay. Four‐hundred and seventy individuals were included, of whom 145 (30.8%) were diagnosed as having acute HEV. Of them, 122 (84.1%) exhibited HEV‐IgM antibodies, and 81 (55.8%) had detectable viral RNA for at least one PCR. Using the ORF3 molecular assay, 70 (48.3%) individuals were identified with HEV infection. When the ORF1 molecular assay was applied, 49 (33.8%) individuals were identified. The ORF3 assay detected viral RNA in 32 patients not detected by the ORF1 assay. In contrast, the ORF1 assay could amplify viral RNA in 11 patients who were not detected by the ORF3 assay. The parallel use of two broad‐range PCR assays significantly increased the performance of the molecular diagnosis of HEV.
Modeling future land cover and water quality change in Minneapolis, MN, USA to support drinking water source protection decisions
Authors: Woznicki Sean A. , Kraynick George , Wickham James , Nash Maliha , Sohl Terry
Published: March 2023

Continued alteration of the nitrogen cycle exposes receiving waters to elevated nitrogen concentrations and forces drinking water treatment services to plan for such increases in the future. We developed four 2011–2050 land cover change scenarios and modeled the impact of projected land cover change on influent water quality to support long‐term planning for the Minneapolis Water Treatment Distribution Service (MWTDS) using Soil Water and Assessment Tool. Projected land cover changes based on relatively unconstrained economic growth led to substantial increases in total nitrogen (TN) loads and modest increases in total phosphorus (TP) loads in spring. Changes in sediment, TN, and TP under two “constrained” growth scenarios were near zero or declined modestly. Longitudinal analysis suggested that the extant vegetation along the Mississippi River corridor upstream of the MWTDS may be a sediment (and phosphorus) trap. Autoregressive analysis of current (2008–2017) chemical treatment application rates (mass per water volume processed) and extant (2001–2011) land cover change revealed that statistically significant increases in chemical treatment rates were temporally congruent with urbanization and conversion of pasture to cropland. Using the current trend in chemical treatment application rates and their inferred relationship to extant land cover change as a bellwether, the unconstrained growth scenarios suggest that future land cover may present challenges to the production of potable water for MWTDS.
A case of mediastinal mesenchymal tumor with pericytic neoplasm feature that responded to radiation therapy
Authors: Muramoto Miho , Kanda Shintaro , Kobayashi Takashi , Tamada Hisashi , Fukazawa Ayumu , Koiwai Keiichirou , Koizumi Tomonobu
Published: March 2023

Here, we report a case of mediastinal mesenchymal tumor with a pericytic neoplasm feature that responded to radiation therapy. A 43‐year‐old man visited our hospital with a complaint of esophageal obstruction and chest pain. Chest computed tomography revealed a middle mediastinal tumor and a mesenchymal tumor was diagnosed with a pericytic neoplasm feature by video‐assisted thoracoscopic biopsy. The definitive treatment for soft tissue tumor is surgical resection; however, the mediastinal tumor was unresectable because of esophageal and tracheal invasion. Radiation therapy was administered and there was a partial tumor response and 2 years disease‐free status. With a review of the literature, we discuss the clinical and pathological characteristics of this rare tumor and its treatment.
A case of bilateral synchronous double primary lung cancer secondary to bladder cancer: From the next‐generation sequencing prospect
Authors: Qiu Yuling , Wang Xuedi , Fan Yingrui , Bao Yanru , Meng Fanqing , Liu Baorui , Li Rutian
Published: March 2023

One year following bladder cancer surgery, a 65‐year‐old man had computed tomography (CT) that revealed bilateral pulmonary nodules. Pulmonary wedge resections were performed after the nodules were found to grow in follow‐up. Unusually, we found that these two lesions were not homologous, nor were they metastases from prior bladder cancer, and therefore, synchronous double primary lung cancer (sDPLC) was diagnosed. The immunohistochemical findings excluded the possibility of bladder cancer metastasis, but could not determine whether they were from the same source. Next generation sequencing (NGS) supported the diagnosis sDPLC because they amply demonstrated the two sources’ distinct origins. Finally, after discussion with pathologists, this patient was diagnosed as small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and received postoperative EP chemotherapy. We also documented a few rather uncommon alterations that might serve as a foundation for further investigation. This case suggests that in addition to immunohistochemical, NGS is also helpful to clarify the etiology and refine the pathological classification of tumors, which has guiding significance for the establishment of precise diagnosis and optimal treatment.
The supply of information and price formation: Evidence from Google's search engine
Authors: Stice Han
Published: March 2023

This study develops several Google search‐based measures to test the relation between earnings‐week online search results and the speed of price discovery. These measures are based on searches using only a firm's ticker symbol in the search string. I collect the total number of search results (across all search result pages) as well as the type and content of search results on the first three pages of search results. I find that the quantity, quality, and content of search results have varying effects on the speed at which earnings news is impounded into stock price. I also find that effects are only observed for search results presented on the first page of a Google search. Overall, my results suggest that (1) increases in online information are associated with slower price discovery, and (2) the likely mechanism by which this association operates is through useful search results being crowded off the first page of results by more complex or irrelevant search results.
Transcriptional activation of endogenous Oct4 via the CRISPR/dCas9 activator ameliorates Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome in mice
Authors: Kim Junyeop , Hwang Yerim , Kim Sumin , Chang Yujung , Kim Yunkyung , Kwon Youngeun , Kim Jongpil
Published: March 2023

Partial cellular reprogramming via transient expression of Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c‐Myc induces rejuvenation and reduces aged‐cell phenotypes. In this study, we found that transcriptional activation of the endogenous Oct4 gene by using the CRISPR/dCas9 activator system can efficiently ameliorate hallmarks of aging in a mouse model of Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS). We observed that the dCas9‐Oct4 activator induced epigenetic remodeling, as evidenced by increased H3K9me3 and decreased H4K20me3 levels, without tumorization. Moreover, the progerin accumulation in HGPS aorta was significantly suppressed by the dCas9 activator‐mediated Oct4 induction. Importantly, CRISPR/dCas9‐activated Oct4 expression rescued the HGPS‐associated vascular pathological features and lifespan shortening in the mouse model. These results suggest that partial rejuvenation via CRISPR/dCas9‐mediated Oct4 activation can be used as a novel strategy in treating geriatric diseases.
Comprehensive evaluation of the incidence and prevalence of surgically diagnosed pelvic endometriosis in a complete population
Authors: Kristjansdottir Asdis , Rafnsson Vilhjalmur , Geirsson Reynir Tomas
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The incidence and prevalence of pelvic endometriosis is still being debated. Population‐based studies have shown annual incidences between 0.1% and 0.3%, which translates to a prevalence of symptom‐giving disease of between 2% and 6% over a 20‐year span in the reproductive years. However, a prevalence of 10% or higher is often assumed. We used Iceland's extensive record linkage possibilities, secure access to patient data and personal identification numbers to search for all cases with a surgical and/or histological first diagnosis over a 15‐year study period.

Material and methods

Information was obtained from all healthcare facilities where an operative and/or histological diagnosis of pelvic endometriosis might have been made during 2001–2015. Hospital discharge diagnostic data and private clinic data sources were scrutinized and double‐checked through a central register. Individual medical records, operation notes and pathology records were inspected. Visually and pathologically diagnosed cases were included. The data covered women aged 15–69 years, but the age range 15–49 (reproductive years) was specifically considered. Annual incidence was estimated per 10 000 person‐years and prevalence possibilities calculated for varying disease durations. Disease severity was staged (revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine classification) and main lesion sites determined.

Results

A total of 1634 women 15–69 years old were diagnosed; 1487 of them between 15 and 49 years old. Histological verification was obtained for 57.1%. The age‐standardized annual incidence for all confirmed endometriosis diagnoses was 12.5/10 000 person‐years among women in their reproductive years. The overall estimate of prevalence was 0.6%–3.6%, dependent on duration of symptoms from 5 up to 30 years. The most common sites by order of frequency were ovaries, deep pelvis, central pelvis, vesicouterine pouch and uterine appendages. Of the women, 1080 (66.1%) had minimal/mild and 553 (33.8%) moderate/severe disease.

Conclusions

We have in a comprehensive study covering a recent 15‐year period confirmed an annual incidence of pelvic endometriosis of between 0.1% and 0.15% in the female population of reproductive age. Endometriosis is variably severe but, depending on the duration of symptomatic disease, the approximated prevalence during women's reproductive years could range from 1% to 4%.
Role of depressive symptoms on the development of pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy: A prospective inception cohort study
Authors: Algård Teresa , Kalliokoski Paul , Ahlqvist Kerstin , Schlager Angela , Kristiansson Per
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy is a major public health concern. For too many women, the pain condition causes disability and sick leave, has a negative impact on daily life, and breeds doubt in their view as mother, partner, and worker. The pathophysiology is unknown and causal treatment is lacking. Depression in pregnancy is common, undertreated, and previously associated with pelvic girdle pain with unclear causal direction.

Material and methods

A prospective inception cohort study of 356 Swedish women examined them in early and late pregnancy. Women with a positive Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation test in early pregnancy were not included. The exposure, depressive symptoms in early pregnancy, was self‐reported on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, depression part (0–21). Outcome measure in late pregnancy was a graded score on the Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation test (0–8). Covariates for statistical adjustment were identified in a directed acyclic graph. Linear robust and logistic regression were used in the statistical analyses.

Results

In early pregnancy, the 248 women with negative Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation test had a mean score of 2.35 (± 2.3 standard deviation) on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, depression part. In a fully adjusted, multiple robust regression model a positive association was shown between Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score, depression part, and the Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation test score in late pregnancy with an estimated effect of β = 0.32 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.16–0.48, p < 0.001). Dichotomization of exposure (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, depression part <8/≥8) and outcome (Posterior Pelvic Pain Provocation test score 0/>0) rendered adjusted odds ratio 1.71 (95% CI 0.38–7.7) and numbers needed to treat adjusted odds ratio 5.54 (95% CI −3.4–14.5).

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms in early pregnancy were associated with the development and intensity of pelvic girdle pain in late pregnancy. Considering the small sample size, screening and treatment for depressive symptoms in early pregnancy may enable a way to reduce and prevent disabling pelvic girdle pain in late pregnancy. Trials are needed to confirm the results.
The San Diego SIDS definition—20 Years on
Authors: Byard Roger W. , Tan Luzern
Published: March 2023

Aim

As it is now 20 years since the San Diego definition of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) was proposed, it is timely to examine the impact of this consensus statement.

Results

Concerns at the time were expressed that ‘death scene’ had been replaced by circumstances of death and so it may have been more useful to have a more inclusive statement of ‘death scene, including circumstances of death’. The category of unclassified sudden infant deaths (USID) that was proposed has not been widely adopted. More disturbing, however, is the increasing failure to use either the San Diego or earlier definitions in published research, with recent studies showing that almost two‐thirds of peer‐reviewed SIDS publications (2019–2021) did not quote or reference internationally accepted definitions. This is a decrease of 33% from the 68% of papers that correctly used SIDS definitions in 2011. The definition is therefore not being uniformly applied and in addition, diagnostic shift is occurring, with more pathologists favouring ‘undetermined’ over a designation of SIDS.

Conclusions

Given these developments, how can we correctly interpret conclusions relating to SIDS research, and can we accurately monitor trends in SIDS mortality? The authors would suggest that unfortunately, at present we cannot with any precision.