bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSIICOS projection optimality for EEG and MEG based functional coupling detection
Authors: Altukhov Dmitrii , Kleeva Daria , Ossadtchi Alexei
Published: March 2023

Functional connectivity is crucial for cognitive processes in the healthy brain and serves as a marker for a range of neuropathological conditions. Non-invasive exploration of functional coupling using temporally resolved techniques such as MEG allows for a unique opportunity of exploring this fundamental brain mechanism in a reasonably ecological setting.

The indirect nature of MEG measurements complicates the the estimation of functional coupling due to the spatial leakage effects. In previous work (Ossadtchi et al., 2018), we introduced PSIICOS, a method that for the first time allowed us to suppress the spatial leakage and yet retain information about functional networks whose nodes are coupled with close to zero or zero mutual phase lag.

In this paper, we demonstrate analytically that the PSIICOS projection is optimal in achieving a controllable trade-off between suppressing mutual spatial leakage and retaining information about zero-phase coupled networks. We also derive an alternative solution using the regularization-based inverse of the mutual spatial leakage matrix and show its equivalence to the original PSIICOS. This approach allows us to incorporate the PSIICOS solution into the conventional source estimation framework. Instead of sources, the unknowns are the elementary networks and their activation timeseries are formalized by the corresponding source-space cross-spectral coefficients.

Additionally, we outline potential avenues for future research to enhance functional coupling estimation and discuss alternative estimators that parallel the established source estimation approaches. Finally, we propose that the PSIICOS framework is well-suited for Bayesian techniques and offers a principled way to incorporate priors derived from structural connectivity.
Axis convergence inC. elegansembryos
Authors: Bhatnagar Archit , Nestler Michael , Groß Peter , Kramar Mirna , Leaver Mark , Voigt Axel , Grill Stephan W.
Published: March 2023

Embryos develop in a surrounding that guides key aspects of their development. For example, the anteroposterior (AP) body axis is always aligned with the geometric long axis of the surrounding eggshell in fruit flies and worms. The mechanisms that ensure convergence of the AP axis with the long axis of the eggshell remain unresolved. We investigate axis convergence in earlyC. elegansdevelopment, where the nascent AP axis, when misaligned, actively re-aligns to converge with the long axis of the egg. Here, we identify two physical mechanisms that underlie axis convergence. First, bulk cytoplasmic flows, driven by actomyosin cortical flows, can directly reposition the AP axis. Second, active forces generated within the pseudocleavage furrow, a transient actomyosin structure similar to a contractile ring, can drive a mechanical re-orientation such that it becomes positioned perpendicular to the long axis of the egg. This in turn ensures AP axis convergence. Numerical simulations, together with experiments that either abolish the pseudocleavage furrow or change the shape of the egg, demonstrate that the pseudocleavage furrow-dependent mechanism is the key driver of axis convergence. We conclude that active force generation within the actomyosin cortical layer drives axis convergence in the early nematode.
Apical PAR-3 caps orient the mitotic spindle inC. elegansearly embryos
Authors: Stolpner Naomi J. , Manzi Nadia I. , Su Thomas , Dickinson Daniel J.
Published: March 2023

During embryonic development, oriented cell divisions are important for patterned tissue growth and cell fate specification. Cell division orientation is controlled in part by asymmetrically localized polarity proteins, which establish functional domains of the cell membrane and interact with microtubule regulators to position the mitotic spindle. For example, in the 8-cell mouse embryo, apical polarity proteins form caps on the outside, contact-free surface of the embryo that position the mitotic spindle to execute asymmetric cell division. A similar radial or “inside-outside” polarity is established at an early stage in many other animal embryos, but in most cases it remains unclear how inside-outside polarity is established and how it influences downstream cell behaviors. Here, we explore inside-outside polarity inC. eleganssomatic blastomeres using spatiotemporally controlled protein degradation and live embryo imaging. We show that PAR polarity proteins, which form apical caps at the center of the contact free membrane, localize dynamically during the cell cycle and contribute to spindle orientation and proper cell positioning. Surprisingly, apical PAR-3 can form polarity caps independently of actomyosin flows and the small GTPase CDC-42, and can regulate spindle orientation in cooperation with the key polarity kinase aPKC. Together, our results reveal a role for apical polarity caps in regulating spindle orientation in symmetrically dividing cells and provide novel insights into how these structures are formed.
Unpacking the functional heterogeneity of the Emotional Face Matching Task: a normative modelling approach
Authors: Savage Hannah S. , Mulders Peter C. R. , van Eijndhoven Philip F. P. , van Oort Jasper , Tendolkar Indira , Vrijsen Janna N. , Beckmann Christian F. , Marquand Andre F.
Published: March 2023

Functional neuroimaging has contributed substantially to understanding brain function but is dominated by group analyses that index only a fraction of the variation in these data. It is increasingly clear that parsing the underlying heterogeneity is crucial to understand individual differences and the impact of different task manipulations. We estimate large-scale (N=7728) normative models of task-evoked activation during the Emotional Face Matching Task, which enables us to bind heterogeneous datasets to a common reference and dissect heterogeneity underlying group-level analyses. We apply this model to a heterogenous patient cohort, to map individual differences between patients with one or more mental health diagnoses relative to the reference cohort and determine multivariate associations with transdiagnostic symptom domains. For the face>shapes contrast, patients have a higher frequency of extreme deviations which are spatially heterogeneous. In contrast, normative models for faces>baseline have greater predictive value for individuals’ transdiagnostic functioning.
A numerical study on thermo-hydraulic performance of micro pin-fin heat sink using hybrid pin-fins arrangement for electronic cooling devices
Authors: Rezazad Bari Amir , Zabetian Targhi Mohammad , Heyhat Mohammad Mahdi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of a combination of hybrid pin-fin patterns on a heat sink's performance using numerical techniques. Also, flow characteristics have been studied, such as secondary flow formation and flow-wall interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the effect of hybrid arrangements of elliptical and hexagonal pin-fins with different distribution percentages on flow characteristics and performance evaluation criteria in laminar flow was investigated. Ansys-Fluent software solves the governing equations using the finite volume method. Also, the accuracy of obtained results was compared with the experimental results of other similar papers.

Findings

The results of this study highlighted that hybrid arrangements show higher overall performance than single pin-fin patterns. Among the hybrid arrangements, case 3 has the highest values of performance evaluation criteria, that is, 1.84 in Re = 900. The results revealed that, with the instantaneous change in the pattern from elliptic to hexagonal, the secondary flow increases in the cross-sectional area of the channels, and the maximum velocity in the cross-section of the channel increases. The important advantages of case 3 are its highest overall performance and a lower chip surface temperature of up to about 2% than other hybrid patterns.

Originality/value

Prior research has shown that in the single pin-fin pattern, the cooling power at the end of the heat sink decreases with increasing fluid temperature. Also, a review of previous studies showed that existing papers had not investigated hybrid pin-fin patterns by considering the effect of changing distribution percentages on overall performance, which is the aim of this paper.
Low-carbon electricity technology transformation in Chinese universities
Authors: Wang Tianchong , Suo Baimin
Published: March 2023

Purpose

With the growing climate problem, it has become a consensus to develop low-carbon technologies to reduce emissions. Electric industry is a major carbon-emitting industry, accounting for 35% of global carbon emissions. Universities, as an important patent application sector in China, promote their patent application and transformation to enhance Chinese technological innovation capability. This study aims to analyze low-carbon electricity technology transformation in Chinese universities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses IncoPat to collect patent data. The trend of low-carbon electricity technology patent applications in Chinese universities, the status, patent technology distribution, patent transformation status and patent transformation path of valid patent is analyzed.

Findings

Low-carbon electricity technology in Chinese universities has been promoted, and the number of patents has shown rapid growth. Invention patents proportion is increasing, and the transformation has become increasingly active. Low-carbon electricity technology in Chinese universities is mainly concentrated in individual cooperative patent classification (CPC) classification numbers, and innovative technologies will be an important development for electric reduction.

Originality/value

This paper innovatively uses valid patents to study the development of low-carbon electricity technology in Chinese universities, and defines low-carbon technology patents by CPC patent classification system. A new attempt focuses on the development status and direction in low-carbon electricity technology in Chinese universities, and highlights the contribution of valid patents to patent value.
Corporate social responsibility in peer-to-peer accommodation: a focus on Airbnb
Authors: Farmaki Anna , Kladou Stella , Ioannides Dimitri
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a critical synthesis of the interface of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation to offer insights that contribute to theory and practice of CSR in hospitality.

Design/methodology/approach

By using key CSR models, this paper reflects on the nexus between CSR and P2P accommodation (with a focus on Airbnb) to identify opportunities and challenges with regard to CSR implementation in P2P accommodation and, thereby, progress the research agenda on the topic.

Findings

This contribution will hopefully enable policymakers to improve the accountability of stakeholders related to P2P accommodation in terms of the sector’s impacts on local communities while contributing to the progression of the research agenda on CSR in hospitality.

Research limitations/implications

Because this contribution is meant to be a “critical reflection paper”, the main purpose is to flesh out a commentary offering recommendations on how to account for CSR in relation to P2P accommodation and primarily Airbnb. As such, this paper aims to prompt future empirical research on the topic. Naturally, the major downside of this type of paper is the lack of an empirical approach.

Practical implications

This paper advances theory on hospitality-related CSR, enabling policymakers to improve the stakeholders’ accountability related to P2P accommodation in terms of the sector’s impacts on local communities.

Originality/value

Despite the increasing importance of CSR in hospitality, minimal academic attention has been paid insofar to CSR in the P2P accommodation sector. This inattention is surprising given the rapid expansion of the sector which, in turn, has imposed significant pressures on local communities.
Interweaving resilience: leadership of continuous improvement partnerships and Mary Parker Follett's theory of relational process
Authors: Eddy-Spicer David H.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Follett's relational process theory illuminates key aspects of interdependence among organizations in the field of education that are essential to fostering capacities for interorganizational resilience. The article argues for the necessity of developing mutualism in systems of education as essential preparation for times of instability and crisis, as demonstrated through recent experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides an introduction to the relational process theory of Mary Parker Follett, a foundational theorist of organizing and administration. This theoretical review uses worked examples drawn from a collaborative, continuous improvement partnership focused on educational leadership preparation and development.

Findings

The author identifies four aspects of Follett's theory that connect most directly to collaborative, continuous improvement partnerships. These include mutualism as circular response, coactive power, embrace of difference through constructive conflict and integrating experience through learning. The article discusses how these offer an integrated framework of foundational concepts for nurturing and sustaining educational systems capable of adaptive change in the face of complex challenges.

Originality/value

Follett's relational process theory offers a perspective on partnering as a dynamic and evolving constellation of interactions and activity. The implications of Follett's core ideas for education resonate beyond improvement partnerships and offer guidance at all levels of educational systems seeking to orient towards an evolutionary logic.
Women’s microbusiness participation decisions and their effect on poverty in the Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Ergo Alemayehu Elda , O’Connor Deirdre , Leza Mega Tekle
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Microbusinesses are better able to assist many disadvantaged groups in finding employment and breaking the cycle of poverty because they require less initial capital and employ a large number of poor people in developing economies. Women run and own the majority of micro-businesses in urban Ethiopia. This study aims to investigate women’s microbusiness participation decisions and the effect on poverty in the Wolaita zone southern Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was carried out using a mixed-methods research approach. A total of 384 women who owned micro-businesses were chosen using a systematic random sampling technique, while 36 women were purposefully chosen for qualitative data analysis. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The collected data were analyzed by using a propensity score matching technique as well as contextual analysis.

Findings

The study discovered that women’s participation in registered micro-businesses had a higher and more beneficial impact on their food, non-food and overall consumer spending than women’s participation in unregistered microbusinesses, which helped to reduce poverty. Besides, overall women’s participation in micro-business increased their decision-making power and enabled them to provide resources for their families food and non-food consumption, with registered micro-business participants reaping the greatest benefits.

Originality/value

This research focused on the effects of women’s micro-entrepreneurship on poverty in low-income communities. Rather than providing food, clothing and/or other aid to women in disadvantaged communities, the authors asserted that assisting women and their micro-businesses allows them to be self-sufficient in terms of food and clothing as a long-term solution to poverty reduction. As a result, policymakers can use our findings to gain a better understanding of how women’s micro-entrepreneurship affects poverty reduction, allowing them to develop more effective anti-poverty initiatives. This study’s findings are novel and add to the body of knowledge in Ethiopia and the sub-Saharan African region.
Inclusive workplace practices: understanding disability-assistance animal stereotype-bias signals
Authors: McPherson Rebecca , Loafman Lucas Wayne
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to fill a distinct gap in the literature on disability-assistance animals (disability-AAs) and inclusive employment by investigating human resource (HR) practitioners’ perceptions of disability-AAs in the staffing process and workplace. HR practitioners play a critical role in accommodation and inclusion, yet their experiences and insights have been largely ignored in prior research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a phenomenological approach, drawing on signaling theory and employability constructs, to explore insights from 17 HR practitioners’ experiences with assistance animals in the workplace.

Findings

The potential for unconscious bias in employment practices was found, as well as a significant percentage of practitioners who were unprepared to handle animal accommodations. First, the potential development of a positive stereotype bias suggests all genuine assistance animals are high functioning. Second, the assumption that employees’ assistance animal requests for invisible disabilities without previous disclosure are presumed fraudulent until proven valid.

Research limitations/implications

As a qualitative study, findings from this study are not generalizable to a larger population but may be transferable to similar employment contexts.

Originality/value

This study extends knowledge from previous studies, which focused predominately on insights from disabled individuals, animal trainers and therapists, to the HR practitioner domain in creating a more inclusive work environment. Findings from this study suggest the need to improve education about disability-AAs and the potential for unconscious bias for HR practitioners and hiring managers when accommodating requests, particularly when those assistance animals are not described as high functioning.
An instrument for studying TQM implementation in primary education: development and empirical investigation
Authors: Sfakianaki Eleni , Kaiseroglou Nikolaos , Kakouris Andreas
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Primary education (PE) forms the foundation of high-quality education systems, but it is often underestimated. This paper aims to develop and empirically validate a measurement instrument to study the current stage of total quality management (TQM) implementation in PE.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed a seven-dimensional and a 37-item instrument administered to education professionals at public PE institutions in Greece to determine the current stage of TQM implementation at their institution; 2,088 responses were received in total. Principal component analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were adopted to test the research instrument.

Findings

The findings supported the validity and reliability of the instrument and demonstrated that the proposed measures represent actual dimensions that can be used to explore the implementation of TQM in PE. Results also showed that the respondents rated highly the positive impact that TQM can have on their schools, although nonhuman resources have been found inadequate and problematic.

Practical implications

The field of TQM in PE lacks empirical evidence; this paper provides deep insight into the elements that demonstrate the perception and status of TQM implementation and can support quality implementation plans.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the TQM literature by developing an instrument for use in PE educational institutions and validating it in a real environment. Practitioners and researchers are thus supplied with the means to facilitate TQM practices, identify weaknesses and opportunities and contribute to social empowerment.
Literacy and strategic marketing to raise public awareness using Sharia pawnshops during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sukardi Budi , Wijayanti Novia Rachmadani , Fachrurazi Fachrurazi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to reveal empirical facts that literacy and marketing strategies effectively impact people using Sharia pawn products during the COVID-19 pandemic because of the pressure of capital needs and financial difficulties.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an exploratory qualitative research approach through semi-structured interviews with six partners of different productive ages and social, economic and educational backgrounds. After data reduction, presentation, description and validation, this paper develops the theory and presents it as a qualitative thematic analysis.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed that those who had socialised Sharia pawnshops had a low literacy level. Nonetheless, the socialisation of Sharia pawnshops increases literacy and public understanding of pawnshop products in Sharia pawnshops. This issue arises because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which makes it impossible for Sharia pawnshops to hold an event or socialise.

Originality/value

The authenticity of this study proves that literacy and marketing strategies can increase public awareness of Sharia pawn products during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Young German consumers’ perspectives of rental fashion platforms
Authors: Westerberg Catrin , Martinez Luis F.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore young German consumer perspectives of rental fashion platforms by studying their perceived benefits, potential barriers as well as preferred clothing categories to rent from. This “new” kind of shopping has not yet found great success among young German adults, although there is a substantial margin of growth for this generation.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study was conducted through 24 in-depth semi-structured interviews with young female and male German consumers out of Gen Y and Z. The analysis of the data was supported by the software NVivo.

Findings

Results indicate that young German consumers value renting clothes for occasions, to frequently change up their wardrobe, out of sustainability aspects and because of efficiency and convenience reasons. However, an entry barrier to the use of rental platforms still persists through a lack of awareness and information, as well as price and high demand issues.

Research limitations/implications

As the interview’s focus group was set to young German consumers, a generalization of the findings to consumers from other countries or out of other generations might be limited.

Practical implications

Managers first need to lower the currently existing entry barrier that prevents many consumers from renting fashion online by raising their awareness and providing them with sufficient information about the platform’s processes as well as their terms and conditions.

Originality/value

This research intends to better understand young German consumers’ attitude toward rental fashion platforms and why renting fashion has not yet achieved more success among them.The results first give managers helpful insights for implementing successful marketing strategies by focusing on spreading awareness among young German adults to stem current entry barriers. Second, these results serve as a basis for future quantitative research that deepens the understanding of the correlation of current findings with other variables (e.g. age, the importance of material possessions in consumers’ lives).
Patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma showed better prognosis than those with adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction
Authors: Huang Qin , Cheng Yuqing , Lew Edward , Shi Jiong , Wiener Daniel , Weber H. Christian
Published: March 2023

Objectives

We followed The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) grouping criteria and conducted a clinicopathological cohort study in a unique patient population to gain insight into the pathobiology of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and adenocarcinoma of the gastroesophageal junction (AGEJ).

Methods

We studied and statistically compared the clinicopathological and prognostic features of both cancers in 303 consecutive patients treated at the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System over a 20‐year period using uniform criteria and standardized routines.

Results

Over 99% of patients were white men with a mean age of 69.1 years and an average body mass index (BMI) of 28.0 kg/m2. No significant differences were detected in age, gender, ethnicity, BMI, and history of tobacco abuse between the two groups. Compared to AGEJ patients, a significantly higher proportion of EAC patients had gastroesophageal reflux disease, long‐segment Barrett's esophagus, common adenocarcinoma type, smaller tumor size, better differentiation, more stages I or II but fewer stages III or IV diseases, scarcer lymph node invasion, fewer distant metastases, and better overall, disease‐free, and relapse‐free survival. The 5‐year overall survival rate was significantly higher in EAC patients than in AGEJ patients (41.3% vs 17.2%, P < 0.001). This improved survival among EAC patients remained significant after censoring all cases detected during endoscopic surveillance, suggesting different pathogenesis mechanisms between EAC and AGEJ.

Conclusions

EAC patients showed significantly better outcomes than AGEJ patients. Our results require validation in other patient populations.
Rheumatoid factor is associated with severe COVID‐19
Authors: Jeong Hyemin , Baek Ae Rin , Park Sung Woo , Kim Tark , Choo Eun Ju , Jeon Chan Hong
Published: March 2023

Aim

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been proposed as triggering autoimmunity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence and clinical significance of autoantibodies in patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from 245 patients who were hospitalized for COVID‐19. All patients were tested for the presence of antinuclear antibody (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti‐citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA), and anti‐cytoplasmic neutrophil antibody (ANCA). Risk factors for death and critical COVID‐19, defined as the need for invasive mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, were analyzed.

Results

Ninety (36.7%) patients tested positive for ANA, and 51 (20.8%) patients tested positive for RF. Three patients each (1.2%) tested positive for ACPA and ANCA. RF‐positive patients had higher rates of invasive mechanical ventilation and death than RF‐negative patients (70.6% vs 28.4%, P < 0.001 and 45.1% vs 18.6%, P < 0.001, respectively). Underlying lung disease, kidney disease, heart disease, quick COVID severity index (qCSI), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were associated with in‐hospital death. RF (odds ratio [OR] 7.31, 95% CI 2.50–21.37, P < 0.001), qCSI (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.19–1.69, P < 0.001), and LDH (OR 1.004, 95% CI 1.002–1.005, P < 0.001) were associated with critical COVID‐19. Combination of RF, qCSI, and LDH showed good prognostic value (area under the curve = 0.903, P < 0.001) for critical COVID‐19.

Conclusions

ANA and RF were frequently detected in COVID‐19 patients. RF could be a risk factor for critical COVID‐19. The results of this study suggest immune dysfunction contributes to the complications of COVID‐19.
An overlooked effect: domestic violence and alcohol policies in the night‐time economy
Authors: Kowalski Michala , Livingston Michael , Wilkinson Claire , Ritter Alison
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

Restrictive late‐night alcohol policies are aimed at reducing alcohol‐related violence but, to date, no evaluations of their impact on family and domestic violence have been conducted. This study aimed to measure whether modifying the drinking environment and restricting on‐site trading hours affected reported rates of family and domestic violence.

Design, Setting and Participants

This study used a non‐equivalent control group design with two treatment sites and two matched control sites with pre‐ and postintervention data on rates of family and domestic violence assaults within local catchment areas of four late‐night entertainment precincts in New South Wales, Australia, covering a population of 27 309 people. Participants comprised monthly counts of police‐recorded incidents of domestic violence assaults from January 2001 to December 2019.

Interventions and comparators

Two variations of restrictive late‐night interventions were used: restricted entry to late‐night venues after 1:30 a.m., trading ceasing at 3:30 a.m. and other restrictions on alcohol service (Newcastle); and restricted entry to late‐night venues after 1 a.m. and a range of restrictions on alcohol service (Hamilton). The comparators were no restrictions on late‐night trading or modifications of the drinking environment (Wollongong and Maitland).

Measurements

Measurements involved the rate, type and timing of reported family and domestic violence assaults.

Findings

Reported rates of domestic violence assaults fell at both intervention sites, while reported domestic violence assaults increased over time in the control sites. The protective effects in Newcastle were robust and statistically significant across three main models. The relative reduction associated with the intervention in Newcastle was 29% (incidence rate ratio = 0.71, 95% confidence interval: 0.60–0.83) and an estimated 204 assaults were prevented across the duration of the study. The protective effects found in Hamilton were not consistently supported across the three main models.

Conclusions

Increases to late‐night alcohol restrictions may reduce rates of domestic violence.
SDR9C7 missense variant in a Chihuahua with non‐epidermolytic ichthyosis
Authors: Kiener Sarah , Castilla Eloy , Jagannathan Vidhya , Welle Monika , Leeb Tosso
Published: March 2023

Ichthyoses represent a heterogeneous group of cornification disorders that are associated with skin barrier defects. We investigated a 9‐month‐old Chihuahua showing excessive scale formation. Clinical and histopathological examinations revealed non‐epidermolytic ichthyosis and a genetic defect was suspected. We therefore sequenced the genome of the affected dog and compared the data with 564 genetically diverse control genomes. Filtering for private variants identified a homozygous missense variant in SDR9C7, c.454C>T or p.(Arg152Trp). SDR9C7 is a known candidate gene for ichthyosis in humans and encodes the short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 9C member 7. The enzyme is involved in the production of a functional corneocyte lipid envelope (CLE), a crucial component of the epidermal barrier. Pathogenic variants in SDR9C7 have been described in human patients with autosomal recessive ichthyosis. We assume that the identified missense variant in the affected Chihuahua of this study impairs the normal enzymatic activity of SDR9C7 and thus prevents the formation of a functioning CLE, resulting in a defective skin barrier. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a spontaneous SDR9C7 variant in domestic animals.
Idelalisib plus rituximab versus ibrutinib in the treatment of relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: A real‐world analysis from the Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients Registry (CLLEAR)
Authors: Špaček Martin , Smolej Lukáš , Šimkovič Martin , Nekvindová Lucie , Křístková Zlatuše , Brychtová Yvona , Panovská Anna , Mašlejová Stanislava , Bezděková Lucie , Écsiová Dominika , Vodárek Pavel , Zuchnická Jana , Mihályová Jana , Urbanová Renata , Turcsányi Peter , Lysák Daniel , Novák Jan , Brejcha Martin , Líkařová Tereza , Vodička Prokop , Baranová Jana , Trněný Marek , Doubek Michael ,   Czech CLL Study Group
Published: March 2023

Idelalisib (idela), a phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibitor, and ibrutinib, a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor, were the first oral targeted agents approved for relapsed/refractory (R/R) chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). However, no randomised trials of idelalisib plus rituximab (R‐idela) versus ibrutinib have been conducted. Therefore, we performed a real‐world retrospective analysis of patients with R/R CLL treated with R‐idela (n = 171) or ibrutinib (n = 244). The median age was 70 versus 69 years, with a median of two previous lines. There was a trend towards higher tumour protein p53 (TP53) aberrations and complex karyotype in the R‐idela group (53% vs. 44%, p = 0.093; 57% vs. 46%, p = 0.083). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) was significantly longer with ibrutinib (40.5 vs. 22.0 months; p < 0.001); similarly to overall survival (OS; median 54.4 vs. 37.7 months, p = 0.04). In multivariate analysis, only PFS but not OS remained significantly different between the two agents. The most common reasons for treatment discontinuation included toxicity (R‐idela, 39.8%; ibrutinib, 22.5%) and CLL progression (27.5% vs. 11.1%). In conclusion, our data show significantly better efficacy and tolerability of ibrutinib over R‐idela in patients with R/R CLL treated in routine practice. The R‐idela regimen may still be considered a reasonable option in highly selected patients without a suitable treatment alternative.
The continuing global challenges of treating patients with beta‐thalassemia
Authors: Koren Ariel
Published: March 2023

In this issue, Hokland et al. offer an interesting view of the different approaches on how to treat a beta‐thalassemia patient. The principal concerns, that this report reveals, are the very wide differences in the facilities and economic resources available for the care of patients. Management of thalassemia should become a word wide health care priority and may include at last those two steps: national and international registries; national programs for screening couples at risk and providing preventive measures to prevent births of patients with thalassemia.

Commentary on: Hokland et al. Thalassaemia—A global view. Br J Haematol. 2023;201:208‐223.
Edaravone and mitochondrial transfer as potential therapeutics for vanishing white matter disease astrocyte dysfunction
Authors: Ng Neville S. , Newbery Michelle , Touffu Aude , Maksour Simon , Chung Johnson , Carroll Luke , Zaw Thiri , Wu Yunqi , Ooi Lezanne
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Previous research has suggested that vanishing white matter disease (VWMD) astrocytes fail to fully differentiate and respond differently to cellular stresses compared to healthy astrocytes. However, few studies have investigated potential VWMD therapeutics in monoculture patient‐derived cell‐based models.

Methods

To investigate the impact of alterations in astrocyte expression and function in VWMD, astrocytes were differentiated from patient and control induced pluripotent stem cells and analyzed by proteomics, pathway analysis, and functional assays, in the absence and presence of stressors or potential therapeutics.

Results

Vanishing white matter disease astrocytes demonstrated significantly reduced expression of astrocyte markers and markers of inflammatory activation or cellular stress relative to control astrocytes. These alterations were identified both in the presence and absence of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid stimuli, which is used to simulate viral infections. Pathway analysis highlighted differential signaling in multiple pathways in VWMD astrocytes, including eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (EIF2) signaling, oxidative stress, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), mitochondrial function, the unfolded protein response (UPR), phagosome regulation, autophagy, ER stress, tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) cycle, glycolysis, tRNA signaling, and senescence pathways. Since oxidative stress and mitochondrial function were two of the key pathways affected, we investigated whether two independent therapeutic strategies could ameliorate astrocyte dysfunction: edaravone treatment and mitochondrial transfer. Edaravone treatment reduced differential VWMD protein expression of the UPR, phagosome regulation, ubiquitination, autophagy, ER stress, senescence, and TCA cycle pathways. Meanwhile, mitochondrial transfer decreased VWMD differential expression of the UPR, glycolysis, calcium transport, phagosome formation, and ER stress pathways, while further modulating EIF2 signaling, tRNA signaling, TCA cycle, and OXPHOS pathways. Mitochondrial transfer also increased the gene and protein expression of the astrocyte marker, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in VWMD astrocytes.

Conclusion

This study provides further insight into the etiology of VWMD astrocytic failure and suggests edaravone and mitochondrial transfer as potential candidate VWMD therapeutics that can ameliorate disease pathways in astrocytes related to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and proteostasis.
Brain metabolic signatures in patients with genetic and nongenetic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Liu Pan , Tang Yongxiang , Li Wanzhen , Liu Zhen , Zhou Ming , Li Jian , Yuan Yanchun , Fang Liangjuan , Guo Jifeng , Shen Lu , Jiang Hong , Tang Beisha , Hu Shuo , Wang Junling
Published: March 2023

Aims

To study the brain metabolic signature in Chinese amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients and compare the difference in brain metabolic patterns between ALS with and without genetic variants.

Methods

We included 146 patients with ALS and 128 healthy controls (HCs). All patients with ALS underwent genetic testing to screen for ALS related genetic variants and were then divided into genetic (n = 22) and nongenetic ALS (n = 93) subgroups. All participants underwent brain 18F‐FDG‐PET scans. Group comparisons were performed using the two‐sample t‐test model of SPM12.

Results

We identified a large of hypometabolic clusters in ALS patients as compared with HCs, especially in the bilateral basal ganglia, midbrain, and cerebellum. Moreover, hypometabolism in the bilateral temporal lobe, precentral gyrus and hypermetabolism in the left anterior cingulate, occipital lobe, and bilateral frontal lobe were also found in ALS patients as compared with HCs. Compared with nongenetic ALS patients, genetic ALS patients showed hypometabolism in the right postcentral gyrus, precuneus, and middle occipital gyrus. The incidence of sensory disturbance in patients with genetic ALS was higher than that in patients with nongenetic ALS (5 of 22 [22.72%] vs. 7 of 93 [7.52%], p = 0.036).

Conclusions

Our investigation provided unprecedented evidence of relative hypometabolism in the midbrain and cerebellum in ALS patients. Genetic ALS patients showed a specific signature of brain metabolism and a higher incidence of sensory disturbance, indicating that genetic factors may be an underlying cause affecting the brain metabolism and increasing the risk of sensory disturbance in ALS.
Do marine planktonic ciliates follow Bergmann's rule?
Authors: Liu Kailin , Jiang Siyu , Montagnes David J. S. , Liu Hongbin , Zheng Liping , Huang Bangqin , Liu Xin , Chen Bingzhang
Published: March 2023

Body size is a fundamental trait determining individual fitness and ecological processes. Reduction in body size with increasing temperature has been widely observed in most ectotherms and endotherms, known as Bergmann's rule. However, we lack data to assess if ciliates, the major consumers of marine primary production, follow Bergmann's rule and what drives the distributions of their cell size. Here, we examined a data set (287 samples) collected across the global oceans to investigate biogeographic patterns in the mean cell‐size of ciliate communities. By measuring the sizes of every ciliate cell (< 10 to > 300 per sample), we found that community cell‐size increased with increasing latitude, conforming to Bergmann's rule. We then addressed the cause. Temperature was a main driver of the trend. Ciliate community mean cell‐size decreased 34% when temperature increased from 3.5 to 31°C, implying that temperature may be a direct physiological driver. In addition, prey (phytoplankton) size also influenced the trend, with ciliate size increasing by 35% across the gradient of phytoplankton size (0.6–15.5 μm). Generally, these findings emphasized the importance of how both biotic and abiotic factors affect size distribution of marine ciliates, a key component of pelagic ecosystems. Our novel, extensive dataset and the predictive trends arising from them contribute to understanding how climate change will influence pelagic ecosystem functions.
A literature review of local and systemic considerations for endodontic treatments in older adults
Authors: Kytridou Vasiliki , Gkikas Ioannis , Garcia Miryam Nathalia , Cepeda Oscar , Hildebolt Charles F.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The aim of this literature review was to summarise the clinical important findings on the endodontic treatment outcome in older patients (≥60 years old) with pulpal/periapical disease considering local and systemic factors from a body of knowledge that is heterogeneous in methods or disciplines.

Background

Due to the increasing number of older patients in the endodontic practice, and the current trend for tooth preservation, the need for clinicians to have a better understanding of age‐related implications that may influence the required endodontic treatment in older adults to retain their natural dentition is indispensable.

Methods

PubMed/Medline and Embase was searched by a medical librarian using specific terms based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. The reference list was hand‐seached for additional relevant publications between 2005‐2020. A combination of these terms was performed uing Boolean operators and MeSH terms.

Results

Of the 1577 publications identified manually and electronically, 25 were included to be fully reviewed by the examiners. The data was derived from three systematic reviews, one systematic and meta‐analysis, three case series, four prospective and 14 retrospective cohorts. Overall, there was heterogeneity in reporting as well as limitations in most studies.

Conclusions

The outcome of endodontic treatment (ET) either nonsurgical or surgical or combination of these is not affected by older age. ET can be the treatment of choice in older patients wiht pulpal/periapical disease. There is no evidence that older age per se affects the outcome of any type of endodontic treatment.
A qualitative exploration of patient safety in a hospital setting in Spain: Policy and practice recommendations on patients' and companions' participation
Authors: Abiétar Daniel G. , Domingo Laia , Medina‐Perucha Laura , Saavedra Nuria , Berenguera Anna , Lacueva Laia , Hurtado Marta , Castells Xavier , Sala María
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Patients' and companions' participation in healthcare could help prevent adverse events, which are a significant cause of disease and disability. Before designing interventions to increase participation, it is first necessary to identify attitudes to patient safety. This study aimed to explore patients' and companions' perceptions, attitudes and experiences of patient safety, taking into account contextual factors, such as cultural background, which are not usually captured in the literature.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study with a theoretical sampling of 13 inpatients and 3 companions in a university hospital in Barcelona, Spain. Information was obtained from individual and triangular interviews. A descriptive thematic content analysis was conducted by four analysts and a consensus was reached within the research team on the key categories that were identified. We also conducted a card‐sorting exercise.

Results

All informants emphasized the role of good communication with health professionals, a calm environment and the need for patient education. Discursive positions differed by cultural background. Informants from a Pakistani–Bangladeshi background emphasized language barriers, while those from European and Latin‐American backgrounds stressed health professionals' lack of time and the need for more interdisciplinary teamwork. The card‐sorting exercise identified several opportunities to enhance participation: checking patient identification and medication dispensation, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene.

Conclusion

This exploration of informants' discourse on patient safety identified a wide variety of categories not usually considered from institutional perspectives. The findings of this study could enrich interventions in areas with diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as current frameworks based exclusively on institutional perspectives.

Patient or Public Contribution

The results of the study were communicated to patients and accompanying persons via telephone or email. Similarly, a focus group was held with a patient forum to comment on the results. In the design of subsequent interventions to improve patient safety at the hospital, the proposals of patients and companions for their participation will be included together with healthcare professionals' opinions.
Seniority and Ideological Proximity? A Longitudinal Analysis of the Appointment of Party Group Coordinators in the European Parliament
Authors: Chiru Mihail
Published: March 2023

Group coordinators have a key role in shaping coherent policy agendas in European Parliament (EP) committees and in building consensus about the party line among the group's specialists. They also yield considerable discretion and influence legislative outcomes through their selection of rapporteurs. This article builds and expands on previous research to analyse longitudinally the determinants of group coordinator selection. The EP's gradual empowerment to co‐legislator status has arguably increased the stakes of selecting competent group coordinators. Drawing on a unique dataset that includes all party group coordinators of the European People's Party in seven terms of the EP (1984–2019), the article shows that committee incumbency, coordinator seniority and, to a lesser extent, ideological proximity to the committee contingent influence who becomes a coordinator. The results are robust to replication of analyses on a sample of Socialists and Democrats Members of the European Parliament and to controlling for several factors associated with partisan and distributive theories of committee organisation.