bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized modulation of DNA supercoiling, triggered by theShigellaanti-silencer VirB, is sufficient to relieve H-NS-mediated silencing
Authors: Picker Michael A. , Karney Monika M. A. , Gerson Taylor M. , Karabachev Alexander D. , Duhart Juan C. , McKenna Joy A. , Wing Helen J.
Published: January 2023

In Bacteria, nucleoid structuring proteins govern nucleoid dynamics and regulate transcription. InShigella spp., at ≤ 30 °C, the histone-like nucleoid structuring protein (H-NS) transcriptionally silences many genes on the large virulence plasmid. Upon a switch to 37 °C, VirB, a DNA binding protein and key transcriptional regulator ofShigellavirulence, is produced. VirB functions to counter H-NS-mediated silencing in a process called transcriptional anti-silencing. Here, we show that VirB mediates a loss of negative DNA supercoils from our plasmid-borne, VirB-regulatedPicsP-lacZreporter,in vivo. The changes are not caused by a VirB-dependent increase in transcription, nor do they require the presence of H-NS. Instead, the VirB-dependent change in DNA supercoiling requires the interaction of VirB with its DNA binding site, a critical first step in VirB-dependent gene regulation. Using two complementary approaches, we show that VirB:DNA interactionsin vitrointroduce positive supercoils in plasmid DNA. Subsequently, by exploiting transcription-coupled DNA supercoiling, we reveal that a localized loss of negative supercoils is sufficient to alleviate H-NS-mediated transcriptional silencing, independently of VirB. Together, our findings provide novel insight into VirB, a central regulator ofShigellavirulence and more broadly, a molecular mechanism that offsets H-NS-dependent silencing of transcription in bacteria.
ATRIP11:: FLT3gene fusion in a patient with myeloid/lymphoid neoplasm with eosinophilia and tyrosine kinase gene fusions: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Venable Elise R. , Gagnon Marie-France , Pitel Beth A. , Palmer Jeanne M. , Peterson Jess F. , Baughn Linda B. , Hoppman Nicole L. , Greipp Patricia T. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Patnaik Mrinal S. , Kelemen Katalin , Xu Xinjie
Published: January 2023

Myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms withFLT3gene fusions have recently been included among myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms with eosinophilia and tyrosine kinase gene fusions (MLN-TK) in the World Health Organization classification and International Consensus Classification. As this entity remains remarkably rare, its scope and phenotypic features are evolving. In this report, we describe a 33-yr-old male with MLN-TK. Conventional chromosome analysis revealed a t(13;14)(q12;q32). Further analysis with mate-pair sequencing (MPseq) confirmed aTRIP11::FLT3gene fusion. A diagnosis of MLN-TK was rendered. To the best of our knowledge, we report the third case of MLN-TK with aTRIP11::FLT3gene fusion. In contrast to previously described cases, our case exhibited distinctly mild clinical features and disease behavior, emphasizing the diverse spectrum of MLN-TK at primary presentation and variability in disease course. MLN-TK withFLT3gene fusions are a genetically defined entity which may be targetable with tyrosine kinase inhibitors with anti-FLT3 activity. Accordingly, from diagnostic and therapeutic viewpoints, genetic testing forFLT3rearrangements using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or sequencing-based assays should be pursued for patients with chronic eosinophilia.
Towards closing the housing gap in the UK: exploration of the influencing factors and the way forward
Authors: Daniel Emmanuel Itodo , Oshodi Olalekan , Dabara Daniel , Dimka Nenpin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Housing provides constructed space for human activities. Literature indicates that housing impacts wealth, education attainment and health outcomes, among others. Because of its contributions to society, it is essential to develop and implement strategies that address the housing shortage experienced in most cities across the globe. This study aims to unpack the factors affecting housing production in the UK and chart the way forward.

Design/methodology/approach

In addressing this study's aim, an interprivitst approach was adopted and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 experienced professionals. Data were collected across the four nations of the UK (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland).

Findings

The results indicated that the opportunistic behaviour of stakeholders is one of the main factors affecting housing production in the study area. Also, modern construction methods, collaborative practices, government intervention and affordable housing schemes were identified as key strategies for addressing housing production factors.

Practical implications

This study identified strategies for mitigating housing production issues that provide a focal point to all stakeholders keen on filling the housing shortage gap and improving productivity to channel their resources and effort accordingly.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to empirically analyse the influencing factors on the housing gap in the UK from the perspective of the supply side to provide information that could lead towards closing the said gap.
Leakages in affordable housing delivery: threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11
Authors: Ebekozien Andrew , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Samsurijan Mohamad Shaharudin , Adjekophori Bernard , Nwaole Angeline Ngozika Chibuike
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The increasing growth of urbanisation, especially in developing countries, coupled with affordable housing leakages, may thwart achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 (sustainable cities and communities). Studies regarding affordable housing leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 in one study are scarce in Malaysia. The study investigated Malaysia's low-cost housing (LCH) leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 and proffered measures to achieving Goal 11 and its targets. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers covered four of Malaysia's major cities via a qualitative approach. The study used 40 participants via semi-structured virtual interviews, and saturation was achieved. The study adopted a thematic approach for the collected data and honed them with secondary sources.

Findings

Findings group Malaysia's LCH leakages into government/agencies/departments in housing, housing developers/building contractors and client/building owners' root causes in Malaysia's context. It shows a threat from Malaysia's LCH leakages to achieving Goal 11 and proffered measures to enhance achieving Goal 11. Achieving Goal 11 will strengthen and improve Malaysia's many SDGs accomplishments because of their link.

Originality/value

Apart from proffering measures to mitigate long-standing issues (leakages) in Malaysia's LCH delivery from achieving Goal 11, findings will stipulate the accomplishment of other SDGs related to housing delivery.
The role of equity crowdfunding campaigns in shaping firm innovativeness: evidence from Italy
Authors: Valenza Giuseppe , Balzano Marco , Tani Mario , Caputo Andrea
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the scientific debate concerning the impact of equity crowdfunding on the performance of crowdfunded firms after campaigning. To this aim, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the characteristics of the campaign and the subsequent firm innovativeness.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a quantitative research approach to evaluate if the entrepreneurial choices affecting the characteristics of the equity crowdfunding campaigns have an impact on the post-campaign firm innovativeness.

Findings

The results of the models show that the campaign characteristics have a direct impact on the firm innovativeness, both in terms of offering and communication and the campaign performance.

Originality/value

This paper presents one of the first studies to investigate the relationship between the choice of campaign characteristics and the post-campaign firm innovativeness. As such, the study contributes to both the literature concerning start-up innovation and the literature about the impact of equity crowdfunding.
Examining the predictors of multitasking information behavior among library and information science professionals in Pakistan
Authors: Butt Nadia , Warraich Nosheen Fatima
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The multitasking phenomenon has been prevailing in the technology-driven information environment. People are engaged in multitasking to process information and deal with personal and professional information tasks. This study aims to explore the external predictors of multitasking information behavior (MIB) of library and information science (LIS) professionals from Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a quantitative study based on a questionnaire survey, and data was collected through Google Form; the link was shared via e-mail and WhatsApp to get maximum responses. The sampling includes the LIS professionals working in Higher Education Commission-recognized universities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. A total of 126 responses were received from 41 universities of KPK.

Findings

Pearson correlation and regression were applied by using SPSS for data analysis. The findings revealed that time pressure (TP) is a good predictor of multitasking because when professionals got tasks with deadlines, they try to perform multiple activities at a time. Therefore, TP is a predictor of human MIB. This study also revealed that the work environment is a less significant predictor of MIB, and the use of multiple information resources is a weak predictor of MIB. It is noted that individual covariates were not predictors of the multitasking information. However, TP was the most significant predictor among all the contextual and individual factors predicting MIB.

Research limitations/implications

This research line is significant because MIB is a new dimension of human information behavior among LIS professionals. The findings are beneficial for LIS professionals to increase their work productivity and performance by rationalizing the significant predictors.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no such study is available that highlighted the MIB among LIS professionals. Therefore, this study will highlight external factors’ effects on LIS professionals’ MIB. This study will contribute to the literature on libraries and information management as this study describes the LIS professionals’ behavior.
Beyond the nexus family – business: introducing the family business service ecosystem
Authors: Randerson Kathleen , Estrada-Robles Mariana
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Extant family business research focuses on the understanding of value creation through the binary interactions between the family and its business (the family – business nexus). This article addresses this issue by expanding the understanding of value creation beyond the family-business nexus to that of value creation among a wider set of stakeholders (the family business service ecosystem). It recognizes the multi-faceted nature of family businesses and conceptualizes a value creation process through a broader scope of internal and external stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This research theoretically connects Business Model Innovation (BMI) and Service dominant logic (SDL) as foundations of an ecosystem approach of value creation established through collaboration, coproduction and co-creation based on Value in Use (ViU). The authors then present the FB Service Ecosystem BM.

Findings

This research generates an overarching model of value creation and integration that reflects and enacts the purpose of the family firm’s project through interactions with ad hoc internal and external actors as possible Third Avenue of value creation, transcending the family versus business paradox. Termed FB Service Ecosystem, this overarching model can be at the forefront of economic, ecological and societal transition, by tacitly transmitting such BMs through their networks of stakeholders. The FB Service Ecosystem is important because it can support the transition of economies and societies based on service, collaboration and meeting multiple stakeholder needs.

Originality/value

This research addresses the dichotomy between financial and non-financial outcomes and between agency and stewardship. It transcends this paradox to offer an inclusive value creation perspective considering a wider set of internal and external stakeholders based on reciprocal service provision and co-creation of mutual value, foundations of service dominant logic, among actors of a service ecosystem federated by and around the family business, termed Family Business Service Ecosystem.
The South African non-profit sector and its vulnerabilities to economic crime
Authors: Bissett Bernice , Steenkamp Philip , Aslett Duane
Published: January 2023

Purpose

In a post-pandemic society, non-profit organisations (NPOs) have become vital. A safe environment for such organisations to function in is therefore important. In spite of efforts to safeguard this sector, rampant abuse exists. This paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the South African non-profit sector and its vulnerabilities to economic crime, specifically money laundering and terrorist financing.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary sources such as legislation, case law, textbooks and peer-reviewed publications are used in identifying the vulnerabilities in the South African non-profit sector. Common denominators are identified from these sources to provide a basis for the highlighted vulnerabilities.

Findings

The South African non-profit sector is most vulnerable, leaving the sector susceptible to economic crimes. This is highlighted in the 2021 Financial Action Task Force Mutual Evaluation Report. Governance structures in the sector cannot protect it effectively and concomitant regulations have become inadequate. It is necessary for the South African Government and Parliament to review existing laws and regulations to ensure enhanced governance over these NPOs.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to a research gap on existing vulnerabilities within the South African non-profit sector relating to money laundering and terrorist financing. The paper provides a comprehensive layout of the South African non-profit sector, highlighting areas at risk of exploitation and identifying key vulnerabilities within the sector.
Use of artificial intelligence in the library services: prospects and challenges
Authors: Hussain Abid
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the emerging technologies of this time. It has been associated with several trades like business, defense, health and education, but its role in library services will foster intelligent decisions. AI is a widely used technology in library services that can transform the best services in the age of information technology. This paper aims to highlight the use of AI in library operations. Several research have been undertaken on this subject, but that only address a few applications. This paper highlights the pros and cons of AI in library services. AI and libraries have a substantial nexus; nevertheless, the use and awareness of AI in library services are still creating question marks addressed in this paper. This study will help the policy stakeholder, librarians and scholars in the field to address these issues before the deployment of AI in library services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a qualitative method using content analysis techniques. Extant literature was explored on the subject and was analyzed for this study. This study highlights the pros and cons of AI in library services and its possible solutions.

Findings

The findings of this study show that AI is a vibrant technology that can be used in library services; however, some obstacles like adequate funds, the attitude of librarians and technical skills are a few obstacles that hamper AI in library operations. The findings also reveal that using AI in library operations will accelerate libraries in the right direction. Furthermore, this study highlights various applications that can be deployed without spending costs.

Originality/value

This study covers the understanding of AI in library services that will help the librarian's information professionals leverage AI in library scenarios. Furthermore, the practical implication of AI in library services will bring positive change in implementing AI. Social implications: This study will motivate library professionals to take advantage of AI in library services and further accelerate library operations in the right direction.
Understanding how firms implemented shared value strategy: a Brazilian business context
Authors: De Tommaso Silvia Ferraz Nogueira , Rodrigues Ivete
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to identify how companies implemented shared value strategies to reconcile profitability and social-environmental welfare and explain through an interactive methodology the main elements and their relationships that compose a shared value creation system.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the interactive qualitative analysis (IQA) method to conduct a qualitative study in the sustainability field of investigation. Participants are both data sources and analysts which brings a different perspective to data analysis. Results emerged from the interaction between the researchers and the participants. The method mixes qualitative and quantitative protocols to bring robustness to the research.

Findings

Relevant findings are (1) a shared value creation system is composed of nine elements which are business results, social-environmental results, ecosystem, impact, materiality matrix, profitability, purpose-driven leadership, social-environmental welfare and sustainable economic development; (2) the system's primary driver is purpose-driven leadership; (3) The use of renewable materials and the reduction in the use of natural resources in the value chain are the main criteria companies employed to meet business and societal objectives simultaneously; (4) the IQA method enabled the consolidation of a Shared Value Creation System Diagram which other scientists may use to replicate the study.

Research limitations/implications

The research investigated a specific country context. Other researchers may use the shared value system diagram to replicate the study with companies in other countries.

Practical implications

Findings show that the knowledge about shared value creation system elements and their cause-effect relationships guides business leaders in developing strategic objectives to reconcile profitability and social-environmental welfare. This is essential knowledge, especially in a context in which companies are increasingly required to assume their social and environmental responsibilities. Besides, a management challenge in the stakeholder-oriented approach is still how strategies can be implemented.

Originality/value

The research design is innovative in using the IQA method in the sustainability field of investigation. The method procedures and protocols allowed for a deeper understanding of the subject, revealing its richness and its potential for replicability in other contexts.
Effect of combining UV‐C irradiation and vacuum sealing on the shelf life of fresh strawberries and tomatoes
Authors: Damdam Asrar , Al‐Zahrani Ashwaq , Salah Lama , Salama Khaled Nabil
Published: January 2023

This research presents the effect of combining UV‐C irradiation and vacuum sealing on the shelf life of strawberries and quartered tomatoes and compares it with the effect of the sole use of UV‐C irradiation or vacuum sealing. A constant UV‐C dose of 360 J/m2 was used for the samples’ irradiation, and all the vacuum‐sealed samples were stored at a reduced pressure of 40 kPa. Organoleptic analysis, microbial population quantification of yeast and mold, Pseudomonas sp., weight loss, and pH measurements were obtained to identify the spoilage occurrence, monitor the samples’ quality, and quantify the shelf life. Sensory evaluation was conducted by 12 consumer panelists to evaluate the aroma, taste, color, texture, and the overall acceptance of the samples. The results revealed that the combination of UV‐C irradiation and vacuum sealing prolongs the shelf life of perishables more than the sole use of UV‐C irradiation or vacuum sealing. The achieved shelf‐life increase using this combination was 124.41% and 54.41% for strawberries and quartered tomatoes, respectively, while acceptable sensory characteristics were maintained throughout the storage period. Hence, this food preservation method can be further improved and integrated in the daily life of modern consumers and the operations of fresh produce retailers, as it could effectively reduce the spoilage rates of fresh produce and help achieve the UN SDG 12.3, which aims to reduce food loss and waste by 50% by 2030 at the consumer and retail levels.

Practical Application

The system can be further developed and introduced to the market as a kitchen appliance for households or as a predistribution step for fresh produce distribution centers. The shelf‐life extension capability of this system, which does not involve any use of chemical substances, would make it an attractive solution for households and food retailers.
Hospital admission decisions for older Veterans with community‐onset pneumonia: An analysis of 118 U.S. Veterans Affairs Medical Centers
Authors: Jones Barbara E. , Ying Jian , Nevers McKenna , Rutter Elizabeth D. , Chapman Alec B. , Brenner Rachel , Samore Matthew H. , Greene Tom
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Age is important for prognosis in community‐onset pneumonia, but how it influences admission decisions in the emergency department (ED) is not well characterized. Using clinical data from the electronic health record in a national cohort, we examined pneumonia hospitalization patterns, variation, and relationships with mortality among older versus younger Veterans.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort of patients ≥ 18 years presenting to EDs with a diagnosis of pneumonia at 118 VA Medical Centers January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2016, we compared observed, predicted, and residual hospitalization risk for Veterans < 70, 70–79, and ≥ 80 years of age using generalized estimating equations and machine learning models with 71 patient factors. We examined facility variation in residual hospitalization across facilities and explored whether facility differences in hospitalization risk correlated with differences in 30‐day mortality.

Results

Among 297,498 encounters, 165,003 (55%) were for Veterans < 70 years, 61,076 (21%) 70–80, and 71,419 (24%) ≥ 80. Hospitalization rates were 52%, 67%, and 76%, respectively. After other patient factors were adjusting for, age 70–79 had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.39 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–1.44) and ≥ 80 had an OR of 2.1 (95% CI 2.0–2.2) compared to age < 70. There was substantial variation in hospitalization across facilities among Veterans < 70 (<35% hospitalization at the lowest decile of facilities vs. > 66% at the highest decile) that was similar but with higher risk for patients 70–79 years (54% vs. 82%) and ≥ 80 years (59% vs. 85%) and remained after accounting for patient factors, with no consistently positive or negative associations with facility‐level 30‐day mortality.

Conclusions

Older Veterans with community‐onset pneumonia experience high risk of hospitalization, with widespread facility variation that has no clear relationship to short‐term mortality.
Drones are an effective tool to assess the impact of feral horses in an alpine riparian environment
Authors: Giles Anna Barbara , Scanes Peter , Dickson Adrian , Adam Brian , Kelaher Brendan
Published: January 2023

Protected areas can be impacted by the presence and proliferation of feral species. Effective management of feral species requires reliable tools to monitor their population size and ecological impacts. Here, we used drone‐based image analysis to assess evidence of feral horses and horse‐specific ecological impacts on alpine riparian habitat. Valleys with low (0), medium (1–16) and high (>16) horse abundances were chosen for drone imagery analysis based on independent aerial counts of horses. Data collection trips were carried out pre‐ and post‐2019/2020 wildfires, which unexpectedly burnt valleys with low horse presence. Drone‐based RGB orthomosaic imagery was sufficient to identify seven indicators of horse presence and determine the severity of feral horse impacts. Despite the impact of fire, drone‐derived classifications were able to accurately detect a gradient of horse impacts, showing a significant difference in indicators from low presence valleys compared with medium and high presence valleys, which did not differ significantly from each other. The significance of differences between valleys reveals that regions routinely inhabited by feral horses will display significant environmental impacts. Our results clearly indicated significant differences between valleys with low horse presence compared with either medium or high horse presence regions (0.01 for differences between both low and medium and low and high horse presence). This was evident both before and after the 2019/2020 fires, suggesting that wildfires did not significantly impact horse populations or distribution in the sampled region. Overall, it was evident that feral horses have a clear and definable impact on alpine riparian vegetation, and drone surveying can be used to routinely monitor potential spread and the outcome of management actions.
Adapting to water restrictions: Intensive versus extensive adaptation over time differentiated by water right seniority
Authors: Earnhart Dietrich , Hendricks Nathan P.
Published: January 2023

This study explores farmers' adjustments to their water use when faced with water restrictions, distinguishing between intensive and extensive adjustments and examining adaptation over time. Specifically, the study uses a difference‐in‐differences framework to explore the effect of a groundwater restriction on irrigation management strategies. In 1992, the Kansas Department of Agriculture created an Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area to improve streamflow in Walnut Creek, which feeds water to a highly important migration point on the mid‐continent flyway. The program allocates permission to extract groundwater in 5‐year allotments. The stringency of the program's restriction depends on the seniority of the water right. We find significant reductions in water use along the intensive margin for senior water rights and along both the intensive and extensive margins for junior water rights. The results indicate significant reductions in water use that imply negative welfare impacts on farmers. We also find evidence of dynamically optimal behavior within each 5‐year allotment period.
Meta‐analysis: Chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma with statins, aspirin and metformin
Authors: Zeng Rebecca W. , Yong Jie Ning , Tan Darren J. H. , Fu Clarissa E. , Lim Wen Hui , Xiao Jieling , Chan Kai En , Tan Caitlyn , Goh Xin Lei , Chee Douglas , Syn Nicholas , Tan Eunice X. , Muthiah Mark D. , Ng Cheng Han , Tamaki Nobuharu , Lee Sung Won , Kim Beom Kyung , Nguyen Mindie H. , Loomba Rohit , Huang Daniel Q.
Published: January 2023

Background

Emerging data suggest that statins, aspirin and metformin may protect against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, prior meta‐analyses were limited by heterogeneity and inclusion of studies without adequate adjustment for baseline risks.

Aim

To examine by an updated meta‐analysis the association between these medications and HCC risk.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were searched from inception to March 2022 for studies that balanced baseline risks between study groups via propensity score matching or inverse probability of treatment weighting, that reported the impact of statins, aspirin or metformin on HCC risk. Multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for HCC were pooled using a random effects model.

Results

Statin use was associated with reduced HCC risk overall (HR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37–0.72) (10 studies, 1,774,476), and in subgroup analyses for cirrhosis, hepatitis B/C, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, studies accounting for concurrent aspirin and metformin consumption and lipophilic statins. Aspirin use was associated with reduced HCC risk overall (HR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.27–0.87) (11 studies, 2,190,285 patients) but not in studies accounting for concurrent statin and metformin use. Metformin use was not associated with reduced HCC risk overall (HR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.31–1.06) (3 studies, 125,458 patients). Most analyses had moderate/substantial heterogeneity, except in follow‐up <60 months for aspirin (I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

Although statin and aspirin use were associated with reduced HCC risk, only statin use was significant in subgroup analyses accounting for concurrent medications. Metformin use was not associated with reduced HCC risk. These data have implications for future clinical trial design.
Long‐term follow‐up demonstrates curative potential of autologous stem cell transplantation for relapsed follicular lymphoma
Authors: Puckrin Robert , Chua Neil , Chin Kelly , Peters Anthea , Duggan Peter , Shafey Mona , Storek Jan , Jamani Kareem , Owen Carolyn , Stewart Douglas
Published: January 2023

Although autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) can achieve durable responses in eligible patients with follicular lymphoma (FL), long‐term follow‐up is needed to determine if it has curative potential. This retrospective, multicenter study included 162 patients who received ASCT for relapsed FL in Alberta, Canada. With a median (range) follow‐up time of 12.5 years (0.1–27.9), the 12‐year time‐to‐progression (TTP) was 57% (95% confidence interval [CI] 49%–65%), time‐to‐next‐treatment was 61% (95% CI 52%–69%), progression‐free survival was 51% (95% CI 42%–59%) and overall survival was 69% (95% CI 60%–76%). A plateau emerged on the TTP curve at 57% starting 9 years after ASCT with no relapses occurring beyond this timepoint. Ten patients remained in remission 20 years or more after ASCT. Patients undergoing ASCT at first or second relapse had superior outcomes compared to third or later relapse (12‐year TTP 61% vs. 34%), as did patients without progression of disease within 24 months (POD24) of frontline treatment versus those with POD24 (12‐year TTP 67% vs. 50%). ASCT achieves high rates of durable remission in relapsed FL, with long‐term follow‐up revealing that more than 50% of transplanted patients may be functionally cured of their lymphoma. The optimal timing to consider ASCT is at first or second relapse, regardless of POD24 status.
The pathogenesis and development of targeted drugs in acute T lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Chen Zhaoying , Xin Qianling , Wei Wei , Wu Yujing
Published: January 2023

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is mainly classified into acute T‐ and B‐lymphoblastic leukaemia according to the source of its lymphocytes, thymus and bone. Among them, the incidence of adult T‐cell accounts for about 25% of adult acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, but the degree of malignancy is high and the treatment rate and prognosis are poor. At this stage, there are few targeted drugs and the commonly used broad‐spectrum chemotherapeutic drugs have poor efficacy and many adverse drug reactions. Understanding and investigating the pathogenesis of T‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is very important for further developing new targeting drugs and improving existing drugs. Dysregulated signalling pathways are the main aetiological factors of T‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. They play crucial roles in promoting tumour initiation, progression, drug design and therapy responses. This is primarily because signalling pathways are indispensable for many cellular biological processes, including tumour growth, migration, invasion, metastasis and others. As a result, small molecule inhibitors targeting the major kinase components of the signalling pathway have received a lot of attention and have been developed and evaluated in preclinical models and clinical trials. Already marketed drugs are also being repurposed in combination therapies to further improve efficacy and overcome tumour cell resistance. In this review, we have aimed to examine the latest and most classical signalling pathways in the aetiology of T‐acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and shed light on potential targets for novel therapeutic agents to act on.
Innovation vs inertia: Entrepreneurial governments in 21st‐century rural Alberta
Authors: Hallstrom Lars
Published: January 2023

Rural development in Alberta is a long‐standing challenge, with local communities and economies often stuck between economic cycles, fiscal largesse from the Provincial Government, and a historical pattern of conservative leadership that seeks to leave the private sector unimpeded. As a result, many rural communities now face significant economic, social, political, and ecological challenges that, while not unique to Alberta, are marked by only modest innovation and a tendency to return to previous developmental initiatives. This paper is focused upon identifying the common challenges facing municipal government in the province, but also accounting for the inertial dynamics within municipal politics. Drawing from qualitative data collected from rural municipalities, it seeks to situate contemporary adaptive economic strategies and initiatives within the dominant public ideology of the province. This paper argues that while reform initiatives undertaken in the province broadly align with pragmatic municipalism as a necessary response to decades of neoliberal austerity and inertia, that pragmatism is tempered by a provincial rationality that limits, rather than enhances, the likelihood of meaningful change. This rationality, and its effects, are explained through four fallacies: home rule, agency, the Golden Age, and homogeneity.
Review: Interventions to prevent or manage self‐harm among students in educational settings – a systematic review
Authors: Nawaz Rasanat Fatima , Anderson Joanna K. , Colville Louise , Fraser‐Andrews Catherine , Ford Tamsin Jane
Published: January 2023

Background

At least half of all young people who die by suicide have previously self‐harmed and most of those who self‐harm will not seek help from health services for self‐harming behaviours. By default, schools, colleges and universities necessarily play a key role in identifying those who self‐harm and supporting them to access help.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021243692) of five databases (Medline, PsycINFO, ASSIA, ERIC and BEI) for quantitative studies evaluating interventions to reduce self‐harm among students in schools, colleges and universities.

Results

We identified six eligible studies that reported interventions. Two interventions used mindfulness‐based approaches and the remaining four interventions focused on in‐classroom education. Three interventions reported a significant reduction in self‐harm, all three used in‐classroom education. Of the six studies, one study was rated methodologically moderate, while the remaining five were weak.

Conclusion

In summary, the evidence base is limited in size and quality. Most current interventions to address self‐harm in schools focus on training staff in awareness, with a significant gap in direct support for students.
The rapid stabilization pathway: impact of a brief inpatient intervention on the length of stay and readmissions among psychiatrically hospitalized adolescents
Authors: Sams Deanna Palmeri , Garrison David , Walsh Patrick , Maeng Daniel , Cross Wendi
Published: January 2023

Background

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2017, Death rates due to suicide and homicide among persons age 10–24: United States, 2000–2017) constituting a significant public health crisis. The demand for psychiatric emergency services and inpatient beds is increasing, while the number of beds available decreases or remains static (National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, 2017, Trend in psychiatric inpatient capacity, United States and Each State, 1970–2014. www.nasmhpd.org/sites/default/files/TACPaper.2.Psychiatric‐Inpatient‐Capacity_508C.pdf) leading to delays in treatment and exacerbation of symptoms for some adolescents awaiting care. This pilot project describes the development, feasibility, and acceptability of a creative, values‐based safety planning intervention for adolescents hospitalized on an acute inpatient psychiatric unit and the impact of this intervention on length of stay and readmissions to acute psychiatric care.

Methods

Thirty patients experiencing a suicidal crisis participated in the Rapid Stabilization Pathway (RSP) during their inpatient psychiatric admission.

Results

Results indicate that, compared to patients who underwent inpatient treatment as usual (TAU), RSP patients were discharged after a significantly shorter length of stay (4 vs. 6.1 weekdays respectively, p < .001). Further, there was no significant difference in readmission to the inpatient unit or to the psychiatric emergency room among RSP and TAU patients at 30, 60, and 90 days postdischarge.

Conclusions

These findings have significant implications for acute inpatient programming. The RSP intervention treated patients in a shorter amount of time without any increase in re‐admissions. Further, the shortened length of stay allowed for more patients to be treated on the inpatient unit and a significant cost savings. Future directions for programming and outcome research are discussed.
How Do Artificial Neural Networks Classify Musical Triads? A Case Study in Eluding Bonini's Paradox
Authors: Perez Arturo , Ma Helen L. , Zawaduk Stephanie , Dawson Michael R. W.
Published: January 2023

How might artificial neural networks (ANNs) inform cognitive science? Often cognitive scientists use ANNs but do not examine their internal structures. In this paper, we use ANNs to explore how cognition might represent musical properties. We train ANNs to classify musical chords, and we interpret network structure to determine what representations ANNs discover and use. We find connection weights between input units and hidden units can be described using Fourier phase spaces, a representation studied in musical set theory. We find the total signal coming through these weighted connection weights is a measure of the similarity between two Fourier structures: the structure of the hidden unit's weights and the structure of the stimulus. This is surprising because neither of these Fourier structures is computed by the hidden unit. We then show how output units use such similarity measures to classify chords. However, we also find different types of units—units that use different activation functions—use this similarity measure very differently. This result, combined with other findings, indicates that while our networks are related to the Fourier analysis of musical sets, they do not perform Fourier analyses of the kind usually described in musical set theory. Our results show Fourier representations of music are not limited to musical set theory. Our results also suggest how cognitive psychologists might explore Fourier representations in musical cognition. Critically, such theoretical and empirical implications require researchers to understand how network structure converts stimuli into responses.
Reduced heart rate variability in people with type 1 diabetes and elevated diabetes distress: Results from the longitudinal observational DIA‐LINK1 study
Authors: Ehrmann Dominic , Chatwin Hannah , Schmitt Andreas , Soeholm Uffe , Kulzer Bernhard , Axelsen Johanne Lundager , Broadley Melanie , Haak Thomas , Pouwer Frans , Hermanns Norbert
Published: January 2023

Aims

People with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) is a clinical marker for CVD. In this observational study using continuous HRV measurement across 26 days, we investigated whether psychological stressors (diabetes distress, depressive symptoms) and glycaemic parameters (hypo‐ and hyperglycaemic exposure, glycaemic variability and HbA1c) are associated with lower HRV in people with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Data from the non‐interventional prospective DIA‐LINK1 study were analysed. At baseline, depressive symptoms and diabetes distress were assessed. Glucose values and HRV were recorded daily for 26 days using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and a wrist‐worn health tracker respectively. Multilevel modelling with participant as nesting factor was used to analyse associations between day‐to‐day HRV and diabetes distress, depressive symptoms and CGM‐derived parameters.

Results

Data from 149 participants were analysed (age: 38.3 ± 13.1 years, HbA1c: 8.6 ± 1.9%). Participants with elevated diabetes distress had a significantly lower HRV across the 26 days compared to participants without elevated distress (β = −0.28; p = 0.004). Elevated depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with HRV (β = −0.18; p = 0.074). Higher daily exposure to hyperglycaemia (β = −0.44; p = 0.044), higher average exposure to hypoglycaemia (β = −0.18; p = 0.042) and higher HbA1c (β = −0.20; p = 0.018) were associated with reduced HRV across the 26 days. Sensitivity analysis with HRV averaged across all days corroborated these results.

Conclusions

Diabetes distress is a clinically meaningful psychosocial stressor that could play a role in the cardiovascular health of people with type 1 diabetes. These findings highlight the need for integrated psychosocial care in diabetes management.
Gender differences in outcomes of early intervention services for first episode psychosis
Authors: Hong Seong I. , Bennett Daniel , Rosenheck Robert A.
Published: January 2023

Aims

There is growing interest in early intervention in psychotic disorders. However, gender differences in the outcomes of such treatment have not been studied in a randomized clinical trial.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders with less than 6 months antipsychotic exposure entered a cluster randomized trial of early intervention services compared to usual care in the Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia Episode Early Treatment Program (RAISE‐ETP) study. Masked evaluators assessed the Quality of Life Scale (QLS) and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) every 6 months. Our secondary analyses examined gender differences in baseline characteristics, 2‐year gender outcomes, and intervention responses.

Results

Altogether 404 individuals aged 15–40 entered the study: 111 (27.4%) women and 293 (72.5%) men. At baseline, women were significantly more likely to have been married (p = .007) and to be living independently (p = .012) than men. Women were also more likely to be diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type (p = .006) and scored higher on the depression subscale of the PANSS (p = .0004) but not the CDSS. Women were less likely to use or abuse cannabis (p = .0004), though no less likely to abuse alcohol. Controlling for these differences, there were no significant gender differences in the QLS or PANSS outcomes.

Conclusion

Baseline gender differences in comorbid substance use and prevalence of mood symptoms in women with first episode psychosis are consistent with previous studies. The absence of significant gender differences in outcomes with early intervention has not been previously reported in a multi‐site randomized US clinical trial.
Evaluation of Self‐Reported professionalism lapses among dental undergraduate students: A cross‐sectional study from a Malaysian dental faculty
Authors: Veerabhadrappa Suresh Kandagal , Pandarathodiyil Anitha Krishnan , Ghani Wan Maria Nabillah , Termizi Bin Zamzuri Ahmad
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Professionalism and academic integrity are important components of dental education as they influence not just the present‐day learning process, but also the practice of dentistry in future. This study evaluated self‐reported professional lapses, academic dishonesty behaviours among peers and recommended sanctions for such lapses.

Materials and Methods

Dundee Polyprofessionalism Inventory I: Academic Integrity questionnaire was administered to BDS students of a private dental institution in Malaysia. Differences in the level of recommended sanctions were assessed by Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

There was unanimous agreement that all 34 statements of lapses of academic integrity as unacceptable. The highest agreement (95.6%) was related to threatening or abusing university employees or students and involvement in paedophilic activities, whereas the lowest agreement was observed for getting or giving help for coursework against rules (47.3%). The most frequent behaviours observed among peers were lack of class punctuality (55.1%) and providing and receiving proxy attendance services (49.3%). About 36% admitted to not being punctual themselves, 26.8% for accepting or providing help for course work and 22.9% for receiving and providing proxy attendance. Female students displayed stricter recommended sanctions, with the most significant difference relating to joking disrespectfully about body parts (p < .001). More lenient recommended sanctions were observed among Year 1 students compared with other years, with the most significant difference (p < .001) observed for exchanging information about the exam, forging a signature, plagiarising and cut‐pasting materials without acknowledgement.

Conclusion

The majority of academic lapses were well comprehended. Significant differences were observed in sanctions imposed in terms of gender and year of study.
Establishing the cross‐cultural applicability of a harmonized approach to cognitive diagnostics in epilepsy: Initial results of the International Classification of Cognitive Disorders in Epilepsy in a Spanish‐speaking sample
Authors: Reyes Anny , Salinas Lilian , Hermann Bruce P. , Baxendale Sallie , Busch Robyn M. , Barr William B. , McDonald Carrie R.
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate the cross‐cultural application of the International Classification of Cognitive Disorders in Epilepsy (IC‐CoDE) to a cohort of Spanish‐speaking patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) living in the United States.

Methods

Eighty‐four Spanish‐speaking patients with TLE completed neuropsychological measures of memory, language, executive function, visuospatial functioning, and attention/processing speed as part of the Neuropsychological Screening Battery for Hispanics. The contribution of demographic and clinical variables to cognitive performance was evaluated. A sensitivity analysis was conducted by examining the base rates of impairment across several impairment thresholds. The IC‐CoDE taxonomy was then applied, and the base rate of cognitive phenotypes for each cutoff was calculated. The distribution of phenotypes was compared to the published IC‐CoDE taxonomy data, which utilized a large, multicenter cohort of English‐speaking patients with TLE.

Results

Across the different impairment cutoffs, memory was the most impaired cognitive domain, with impairments in list learning ranging from 50% to 78%. Application of the IC‐CoDE taxonomy utilizing a −1.5‐SD cutoff revealed an intact cognitive profile in 47.6% of patients, single‐domain impairment in 23.8% of patients, bidomain impairment in 14.3% of patients, and generalized impairment in 14.3% of the sample. This distribution was comparable to the phenotype distribution observed in the IC‐CoDE validation sample.

Significance

We demonstrate a similar pattern and distribution of cognitive phenotypes in a Spanish‐speaking epilepsy cohort compared to an English‐speaking sample. This suggests stability in the underlying phenotypes associated with TLE and applicability of the IC‐CoDE for guiding cognitive diagnostics in epilepsy research that can be applied to culturally and linguistically diverse samples.