bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of digital inclusive finance on high-quality consumption: evidence from Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai of China
Authors: Duan Jiangjiao , Chen Mengdi
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Digital inclusive finance has a positive promotion effect on the development of the national economy, but little research exists on how digital inclusive finance affects high-quality consumption in economically developed regions. Therefore, to fill the gap, this paper aims to study the impact of digital inclusive finance on high-quality consumption development using the economically developed regions of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai as examples.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the entropy method is used to construct the index of high-quality consumption among residents. Then, the municipal-level data of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai from 2011 to 2020 are used to test the impact. Subsequently, the mechanism of action test and heterogeneity analysis are conducted.

Findings

The results show that digital inclusive finance has a positive role in promoting the high-quality consumption of residents in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai. At the same time, digital inclusive finance can promote high-quality consumption through its own digital payment and internet insurance channels. There is regional heterogeneity in the impact.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine whether and how digital inclusive finance affects high-quality consumption. The authors consider multiple dimensions, such as consumption level, consumption structure, consumption ability, consumption environment and consumption mode, to measure high-quality consumption. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, investors and regulators in planning regulations.
MEMS flexible conformal hydrophone based on heterogeneous integration technology
Authors: Zhang Xiangkai , Wang Renxin , Cao Wenping , Liu Guochang , Tan Haoyu , Li Haoxuan , Wu Jiaxing , Zhang Guojun , Zhang Wendong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Human-induced marine environmental noise, such as commercial shipping and seismic exploration, is concentrated in the low-frequency range. Meanwhile, low-frequency sound signals can achieve long-distance propagation in water. To meet the requirements of long-distance underwater detection and communication, this paper aims to propose an micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) flexible conformal hydrophone for low-frequency underwater acoustic signals. The substrate of the proposed hydrophone is polyimide, with silicon as the piezoresistive unit.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a MEMS heterojunction integration process for preparing flexible conformal hydrophones. In addition, sensors prepared based on this process are non-contact flexible sensors that can detect weak signals or small deformations.

Findings

The experimental results indicate that making devices with this process cannot only achieve heterogeneous integration of silicon film, metal wire and polyimide, but also allow for customized positions of the silicon film as needed. The success rate of silicon film transfer printing is over 95%. When a stress of 1 Pa is applied on the x-axis or y-axis, the maximum stress on Si as a pie-zoresistive material is above, and the average stress on the Si film is around.

Originality/value

The flexible conformal vector hydrophone prepared by heterogeneous integration technology provides ideas for underwater acoustic communication and signal acquisition of biomimetic flexible robotic fish.
Managing safety of the human on the factory floor: a computer vision fusion approach
Authors: Humphries Jacqueline , Van de Ven Pepijn , Amer Nehal , Nandeshwar Nitin , Ryan Alan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Maintaining the safety of the human is a major concern in factories where humans co-exist with robots and other physical tools. Typically, the area around the robots is monitored using lasers. However, lasers cannot distinguish between human and non-human objects in the robot’s path. Stopping or slowing down the robot when non-human objects approach is unproductive. This research contribution addresses that inefficiency by showing how computer-vision techniques can be used instead of lasers which improve up-time of the robot.

Design/methodology/approach

A computer-vision safety system is presented. Image segmentation, 3D point clouds, face recognition, hand gesture recognition, speed and trajectory tracking and a digital twin are used. Using speed and separation, the robot’s speed is controlled based on the nearest location of humans accurate to their body shape. The computer-vision safety system is compared to a traditional laser measure. The system is evaluated in a controlled test, and in the field.

Findings

Computer-vision and lasers are shown to be equivalent by a measure of relationship and measure of agreement. R2 is given as 0.999983. The two methods are systematically producing similar results, as the bias is close to zero, at 0.060 mm. Using Bland–Altman analysis, 95% of the differences lie within the limits of maximum acceptable differences.

Originality/value

In this paper an original model for future computer-vision safety systems is described which is equivalent to existing laser systems, identifies and adapts to particular humans and reduces the need to slow and stop systems thereby improving efficiency. The implication is that computer-vision can be used to substitute lasers and permit adaptive robotic control in human–robot collaboration systems.
Residents’ peer-to-peer accommodation hosting intentions: constraints, negotiation and learned helplessness
Authors: Mahajan Honeyka , Kour Aseesdeep , Arora Neelika
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Peer-to-peer accommodation (P2PA) has witnessed remarkable growth across the globe recently. However, acceptance of P2PA among residents in developing economies is still fraught with several challenges. The paper aims to extend the constraint–negotiation framework to examine the motivations, perceived constraints, negotiation strategies and the role of learned helplessness of local residents to host tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire by using cluster random sampling technique. In total, 454 usable questionnaires were collected through on-site research. The structural model was tested by using survey data by applying PLS-SEM 4.0.

Findings

The results suggest that while perceived constraints can inhibit residents from hosting, negotiation strategies can reduce helplessness and encourage residents to host tourists.

Practical implications

Theoretically, this study advances P2PA literature by integrating learned helplessness in the constraint–negotiation framework and it offers insights for the P2PA providers as well as policymakers.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering study to examine the role of learned helplessness using constraint–negotiation framework in the context of P2PA, thus paving the way to advance P2PA-related research from the residents’ perspective.
Attitudes to gender quotas: Why and where to adjust gender imbalance in leadership
Authors: MURIAAS RAGNHILD L. , PETERS YVETTE
Published: April 2024

When individuals are confronted with information about why and where gender quotas should apply, does it affect their attitudes? A growing literature argues that information affects opinions on gender equality, but so far there is more consensus on who supports such policies than on what type of information convinces those on the fence. Using a survey experiment fielded among Norwegian citizens and elected representatives, we examine the potential of new rationales and different areas of application to find out what makes (some) people more supportive of gender quotas. Overall, we find that citizens are more affected by moral arguments than elected representatives. Among citizens, we find that emphasizing women's distinct insights boosts support among those with less fixed opinions, and that a talent framing hinting at women as an untapped resource might cause the opposite reaction. Representatives are affected by information about where gender quotas apply, as they are particularly sensitive to information on gender quotas in politics. Quite unexpectedly, we find that those on the right are more supportive of gender quotas in the leadership of religious institutions than elsewhere, and that this seems to be driven at least partly by scepticism against migrants.
Early‐diverging Titanosauriform (Dinosauria, Sauropoda) Teeth from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Southeastern Inner Mongolia, Northeast China
Authors: ZHANG Honggang , YIN Yalei , PEI Rui , ZHOU Changfu
Published: April 2024

Three eusauropod teeth (SDUST‐V1064, PMOL‐AD00176, PMOL‐ADt0005) are reported from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Ningcheng, southeastern Inner Mongolia, China. Two of them (SDUST‐V1064, PMOL‐AD00176) are assigned to early‐diverging titanosauriforms in having slightly mesiodistal expansion at the base of the tooth crown, a slenderness index value >2.0 and <4.0, and D‐shaped cross section. Furthermore, SDUST‐V1064 and PMOL‐AD00176 are referred as an Euhelopus‐like titanosauriform on the basis of having a sub‐circular boss on the lingual surface and an asymmetrical crown‐root margin which slants apically, respectively. CT scan data of SDUST‐V1064 reveals new dental information of early‐diverging titanosauriforms, for example, the enamel on the labial side thicker than that on the lingual side, an enamel/dentine ratio of 0.26 and a boss present on the lingual side of the dentine of the crown.
Can anthropologists get humor? A collaborative experiment on empathetic knowing at a time of predicaments
Authors: Xu Jing , Zhan Yang
Published: April 2024

As a pandemic‐era collaborative writing project undertaken amid rising geopolitical tensions, this article demonstrates understanding humor in contemporary China as an ethnographic project leading toward deep, empathetic knowledge at a time when in‐person fieldwork became difficult. Through deciphering and translating layered meanings “encrypted” in and intentions signaled by humor in a new comedy program launched in 2021, we dive deep into the lively social life in contemporary China. Humor, via “thick description,” offers valuable insights into life in “fieldsites” that were hard to access during the pandemic time, amid political tensions. It provides a unique lens to examine the unspoken but shared sentiments in societies where humor has become a fundamental mode of public expression. It alerts us to existential anxieties in social life, the subtle voices of social critique, and the yearning for empathy. Humor is not only a valuable object for anthropological inquiry but also a vantage point to reflect on ethnographic methodology and epistemology. We examine humor, with its sentimental and ethical potentialities, and through spontaneous collaboration of mutual support, envision new possibilities in anthropological knowledge production.
Non‐infectious adverse events of transperineal prostate biopsies performed under local anaesthesia
Authors: Jacewicz Maciej , Rud Erik , Lauritzen Peter , Baco Eduard
Published: April 2024

Objective

To report non‐infectious adverse events associated with transperineal prostate biopsy (TPBx) performed under local anaesthesia (LA) in an outpatient setting.

Patients and methods

This study reports secondary outcomes from the Norwegian arm of the prospective NORAPP study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04146142) and included all patients referred for prostate biopsy from November 2019 to February 2021. Transperineal magnetic resonance imaging‐transrectal ultrasonography fusion TPBx were taken using 40 mL 1% lidocaine with 4 mL of 8.4% sodium bicarbonate placed in the perineal skin, under the prostatic apex, in the m. levator ani bilaterally, and along the path of the needle. Follow‐up using patient‐reported questionnaires was done immediately after TPBx, and after 2 weeks and 2 months. Pain was reported using a visual analogue scale (VAS) during placement of the LA, and during and after TPBx. Haematuria and acute urinary retention (AUR) rates were recorded.

Results

We included 402 patients, and the response rate was 99.8% (401/402). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 69 (63–74) years, the prostate volume was 40 (27–58) mL, the prostate‐specific antigen level was 7.0 (4.5–11) ng/mL, and the number of biopsy cores taken was 8 (6–10). The median (IQR) VAS pain score was 1 (1–2) during placement of LA, 1 (0–2) during TPBx, and 0 (0–0) after TPBx. Haematuria and AUR rates were 64% (95% confidence interval [CI] 60–69%) and 0.5% (95% CI 0.1–1.8%), respectively. No patients were hospitalised or required after the TPBx surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Transperineal prostate biopsies can be performed under LA with limited discomfort to the patient and few post‐TPBx adverse events.
Expression of ZKSCAN3 protein suppresses proliferation, migration, and invasion of pancreatic cancer through autophagy
Authors: Nonoyama Keisuke , Matsuo Yoichi , Sugita Saburo , Eguchi Yuki , Denda Yuki , Murase Hiromichi , Kato Tomokatsu , Imafuji Hiroyuki , Saito Kenta , Morimoto Mamoru , Ogawa Ryo , Takahashi Hiroki , Mitsui Akira , Kimura Masahiro , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: April 2024

Elevated autophagy activity enhances the malignancy of pancreatic cancer (PaCa), and autophagy is recognized as a novel therapeutic target. Zinc finger protein with KRAB and SCAN domains 3 (ZKSCAN3) is a transcription factor that suppresses autophagy, but its association with PaCa is unknown. We analyzed the function of ZKSCAN3 in PaCa and investigated whether autophagy regulation through ZKSCAN3 could become a new therapeutic target for PaCa. Using reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, we observed that ZKSCAN3 expression was upregulated in several PaCa cell lines compared with normal pancreatic ductal epithelial cells. Additionally, comparing ZKSCAN3 expression with the prognosis of PaCa patients using web databases, we found that higher ZKSCAN3 expression in PaCa was associated with extended overall survival. Knocking down ZKSCAN3 promoted the proliferation of PaCa cells. Moreover, following ZKSCAN3 knockdown, PaCa cells exhibited significantly enhanced migratory and invasive properties. Conversely, overexpression of ZKSCAN3 significantly suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of PaCa cells. Additionally, the knockdown of ZKSCAN3 increased the expression of LC3‐II, a marker of autophagy, whereas ZKSCAN3 overexpression decreased LC3‐II expression. In a xenograft mouse model, tumors formed by MIA PaCa‐2 cells in which ZKSCAN3 was knocked down significantly increased in size compared with the control group. In conclusion, ZKSCAN3 expression was upregulated in several pancreatic cancer cells. Additionally, it was revealed that ZKSCAN3 is negatively correlated with the malignancy of PaCa through autophagy. These results suggest that autophagy regulation via ZKSCAN3 may be a new therapeutic target for PaCa.
Navigating the Manifold of Translucent Appearance
Authors: Lanza Dario , Masia Belen , Jarabo Adrian
Published: April 2024

We present a perceptually‐motivated manifold for translucent appearance, designed for intuitive editing of translucent materials by navigating through the manifold. Classic tools for editing translucent appearance, based on the use of sliders to tune a number of parameters, are challenging for non‐expert users: These parameters have a highly non‐linear effect on appearance, and exhibit complex interplay and similarity relations between them. Instead, we pose editing as a navigation task in a low‐dimensional space of appearances, which abstracts the user from the underlying optical parameters. To achieve this, we build a low‐dimensional continuous manifold of translucent appearance that correlates with how humans perceive this type of materials. We first analyze the correlation of different distance metrics in image space with human perception. We select the best‐performing metric to build a low‐dimensional manifold, which can be used to navigate the space of translucent appearance. To evaluate the validity of our proposed manifold within its intended application scenario, we build an editing interface that leverages the manifold, and relies on image navigation plus a fine‐tuning step to edit appearance. We compare our intuitive interface to a traditional, slider‐based one in a user study, demonstrating its effectiveness and superior performance when editing translucent objects.
OptFlowCam: A 3D‐Image‐Flow‐Based Metric in Camera Space for Camera Paths in Scenes with Extreme Scale Variations
Authors: Piotrowski Lisa , Motejat Michael , Rössl Christian , Theisel Holger
Published: April 2024

Interpolation between camera positions is a standard problem in computer graphics and can be considered the foundation of camera path planning. As the basis for a new interpolation method, we introduce a new Riemannian metric in camera space, which measures the 3D image flow under a small movement of the camera. Building on this, we define a linear interpolation between two cameras as shortest geodesic in camera space, for which we provide a closed‐form solution after a mild simplification of the metric. Furthermore, we propose a geodesic Catmull‐Rom interpolant for keyframe camera animation. We compare our approach with several standard camera interpolation methods and obtain consistently better camera paths especially for cameras with extremely varying scales.
Recipient donor sex combinations in solid organ transplantation and impact on clinical outcome: A scoping review
Authors: Magyar Christian Tibor Josef , Gretener Charlene Pierrine , Baldi Patricia , Storni Federico , Kim‐Fuchs Corina , Candinas Daniel , Berzigotti Annalisa , Knecht Matthias , Beldi Guido , Hirzel Cédric , Sidler Daniel , Reineke David , Banz Vanessa
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Solid organ transplantation (SOT) is a lifesaving treatment for end‐stage organ failure. Although many factors affect the success of organ transplantation, recipient and donor sex are important biological factors influencing transplant outcome. However, the impact of the four possible recipient and donor sex combinations (RDSC) on transplant outcome remains largely unclear.

Methods

A scoping review was carried out focusing on studies examining the association between RDSC and outcomes (mortality, graft rejection, and infection) after heart, lung, liver, and kidney transplantation. All studies up to February 2023 were included.

Results

Multiple studies published between 1998 and 2022 show that RDSC is an important factor affecting the outcome after organ transplantation. Male recipients of SOT have a higher risk of mortality and graft failure than female recipients. Differences regarding the causes of death are observed. Female recipients on the other hand are more susceptible to infections after SOT.

Conclusion

Differences in underlying illnesses as well as age, immunosuppressive therapy and underlying biological mechanisms among male and female SOT recipients affect the post‐transplant outcome. However, the precise mechanisms influencing the interaction between RDSC and post‐transplant outcome remain largely unclear. A better understanding of how to identify and modulate these factors may improve outcome, which is particularly important in light of the worldwide organ shortage. An analysis for differences of etiology and causes of graft loss or mortality, respectively, is warranted across the RDSC groups.

Practitioner points

Recipient and donor sex combinations affect outcome after solid organ transplantation.

While female recipients are more susceptible to infections after solid organ transplantation, they have higher overall survival following SOT, with causes of death differing from male recipients.

Sex‐differences should be taken into account in the post‐transplant management.
Impact of hyperparathyroidism on allograft histology and function after kidney transplantation: Rethinking its causal role in graft dysfunction
Authors: Cojuc‐Konigsberg Gabriel , Tinajero‐Sánchez Denisse , Canaviri‐Flores Vianca Anabel , Fueyo‐Rodríguez Omar , Uribe‐Uribe Norma O. , Marino‐Vazquez Lluvia A. , Morales‐Buenrostro Luis Eduardo , Ramirez‐Sandoval Juan C.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The causal relationship between hyperparathyroidism and kidney graft dysfunction remains inconclusive. Applying Bradford‐Hill's temporality and consistency causation principles, we assessed the effect of parathyroid hormone (iPTH) on graft histology and eGFR trajectory on kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) with normal time‐zero graft biopsies.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study evaluating the effect of hyperparathyroidism on interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA) development in 1232 graft biopsies. Pre‐transplant hyperparathyroidism was categorized by KDIGO or KDOQI criteria, and post‐transplant hyperparathyroidism by iPTH >1× and >2× the URL 1 year after transplantation.

Results

We included 325 KTRs (56% female, age 38 ± 13 years, follow‐up 4.2 years [IQR: 2.7‐5.8]). Based on pre‐transplant iPTH levels, 26% and 66% exceeded the KDIGO and KDOQI targets, respectively. There were no significant differences in the development of >25% IF/TA between KTRs with pre‐transplant iPTH levels above and within target range according to KDIGO (53% vs. 62%, P = .16, HR.94 [95% CI:.67–1.32]) and KDOQI (60% vs. 60%, P = 1.0, HR 1.19 [95% CI:.88–1.60]) criteria. Similarly, there were no differences when using 1 year post‐transplant iPTH cut‐offs > 88 pg/mL (58% vs. 64%, P = .33) and > 176 pg/mL (55% vs. 62%, P = .19). After adjusting for confounders, no significant differences were observed in eGFR trajectories among the iPTH strata.

Conclusion

In young KTRs who received a healthy graft, no association was found between increased pre‐ and post‐transplant iPTH levels and graft dysfunction, as assessed histologically and through eGFR trajectory. The concept of hyperparathyroidism as a risk factor for graft dysfunction in recipients at low risk requires reevaluation.
Diel vibrational activity of Halyomorpha halys and its implications for enhancing bimodal traps
Authors: Fouani Jalal M. , Bonet Mattia , Zaffaroni‐Caorsi Valentina , Nieri Rachele , Verrastro Vincenzo , Anfora Gianfranco , Mazzoni Valerio
Published: April 2024

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is an invasive insect pest that has caused significant economic losses in a myriad of agricultural crops in Europe and the USA. The communication as well as the control of this pest largely rely on semiochemicals (e.g., pheromones) and semiophysicals (e.g., substrate‐borne vibrations). Nevertheless, the nocturnal activity of H. halys is still largely unknown. In the present study, the diel vibrational communication of H. halys was investigated in controlled laboratory and semi‐field conditions. Moreover, the relevance of this ecological trait for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies was assessed by extending playback periods of bimodal (i.e., pheromones + vibrational playbacks) traps to 24 h, and comparing it to the current trap model (solar panel, about 12 h of playback) and a control (no playback, only pheromone). We found that H. halys did not exhibit discernible differences of vibrational activity between photophase and scotophase, with the exception of signal type 2 that in laboratory conditions was predominately emitted within nocturnal and morning hours (i.e., 20:00–12:00). Additionally, the calling activity was negatively affected by warmer (>32 °C) and windier (>7 m s−1) conditions in semi‐field settings. Bimodal traps that were power‐supplied for 24 h captured significantly more males than the other groups, and more females than the control group. Results suggest that the nocturnal vibrational activity of H. halys should be accounted for within IPM strategies by activating the bimodal traps also during the scotophase.
Protein engineering using circular permutation – structure, function, stability, and applications
Authors: Das Debanjana , Ainavarapu Sri Rama Koti
Published: April 2024

Protein engineering is important for creating novel variants from natural proteins, enabling a wide range of applications. Approaches such as rational design and directed evolution are routinely used to make new protein variants. Computational tools like de novo design can introduce new protein folds. Expanding the amino acid repertoire to include unnatural amino acids with non‐canonical side chains in vitro by native chemical ligation and in vivo via codon expansion methods broadens sequence and structural possibilities. Circular permutation (CP) is an invaluable approach to redesigning a protein by rearranging the amino acid sequence, where the connectivity of the secondary structural elements is altered without changing the overall structure of the protein. Artificial CP proteins (CPs) are employed in various applications such as biocatalysis, sensing of small molecules by fluorescence, genome editing, ligand‐binding protein switches, and optogenetic engineering. Many studies have shown that CP can lead to either reduced or enhanced stability or catalytic efficiency. The effects of CP on a protein's energy landscape cannot be predicted a priori. Thus, it is important to understand how CP can affect the thermodynamic and kinetic stability of a protein. In this review, we discuss the discovery and advancement of techniques to create protein CP, and existing reviews on CP. We delve into the plethora of biological applications for designed CP proteins. We subsequently discuss the experimental and computational reports on the effects of CP on the thermodynamic and kinetic stabilities of proteins of various topologies. An understanding of the various aspects of CP will allow the reader to design robust CP proteins for their specific purposes.
Social capital and supply chain relationships
Authors: Kang Namho , Nemani Alok , Raman Kartik
Published: April 2024

We examine the role of social capital in influencing decisions pertaining to buyer–supplier relationships. We report that firms make larger relationship‐specific investments when their supply chain partners are headquartered in states with high social capital. This result is more pronounced when supply chain partners have incentives to engage in opportunistic behavior. Furthermore, the duration of supply chain relationships is longer when the firm and its supply chain partner are both headquartered in high social capital states, and when the partner invests in relationship‐specific assets. Collectively, the evidence suggests that social norms reflecting trustworthiness facilitate investment and stability along supply chains.
Population dynamics and stock assessment of Queenfish (Scomberoides commersonnianus) from the marine waters of Bangladesh
Authors: Barua Suman , Liu Qun , Azam Mohammed Shariful
Published: April 2024

The Queenfish, Scomberoides commersonnianus, is a large commercial fish in Bangladesh. This is the first study on the Queenfish that aims to elucidate life history parameters and stock status to suggest authority for sustainable management and to support future research on this economically significant species in the region. We used three length‐based approaches to establish a standard for sustainable management of the fishery: (1) TropFishR to give the growth parameters and current exploitation status, (2) the length‐based Bayesian biomass estimation (LBB) to quantify stock biomass, (3) and Froese's sustainability indicators (LBI). The length–weight relationship of Queenfish was a negative allometric pattern (b = 2.84; R2 = 0.98). Growth parameters for Queenfish were L∞ = 124.22 cm, K = 0.31 year−1. Instantaneous total mortality Z = 0.71 year−1, instantaneous natural mortality M = 0.36 year−1, and instantaneous fishing mortality F = 0.35 year−1. Based on the LBB approach, the current estimated stock biomass was overexploited (B/BMSY = 0.65). We recommend strictly maintaining mesh size of nets to reduce harvest of immature fish shorter than 62 cm, while focusing harvest on fish 62–74 cm, to minimise recruitment and growth overfishing.
Lived experience and family engagement in psychiatry research: A scoping review of reviews
Authors: Hawke Lisa D. , Sheikhan Natasha Y. , Rodak Terri
Published: April 2024

Background

A growing body of research is addressing the process and science of engaging people with lived experience (PWLE) of mental health challenges and other psychiatric conditions, and family members, in research activities.

Objective

This scoping review of reviews synthesizes literature reviews on the engagement of PWLE and family members in research across the field of psychiatry.

Method

Systematic searches were conducted in seven bibliographic databases. Records were independently screened first at the title and abstract level, then at the full‐text level. Included were any literature synthesis studies published in English, French, or Spanish in any given year, focusing on the engagement of PWLE and/or family members in research within psychiatry. Twenty records were included. Data were extracted in a spreadsheet and codebook thematic analysis was used across the body of articles to synthesize the findings.

Results

Aspects of PWLE engagement have been synthesized in 20 review articles reviewing 376 articles across psychiatry as a whole and several subpopulations, including youth mental health, dementia, neurodevelopmental disorders, people who use drugs, and forensic mental health. Information specific to family engagement is lacking. Barriers, facilitators, and positive impacts of PWLE engagement have been widely reported across domains of research, with a considerable degree of consensus across subpopulations. Some negative impacts and reporting challenges have also been identified.

Discussion

This scoping review of reviews provides an overarching understanding of the current state of the science of PWLE and family engagement across psychiatry research. The findings can inform future research practices enriched with a genuine and effective engagement with PWLE and families.

Patient or Public Contribution

The authorship team includes members with intersecting lived experience and academic identities. Additional lived experience engagement was not conducted as part of this review.
Exploring the association between internalized weight bias and mental health among Canadian adolescents
Authors: Lucibello Kristen M. , Goldfield Gary S. , Alberga Angela S. , Leatherdale Scott T. , Patte Karen A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Internalized weight bias (IWB) has been identified as a correlate of higher depressive and anxiety symptoms in adolescents with higher weights. However, there has been limited investigation into how IWB relates to positive mental health and whether these associations differ across genders.

Objectives

To examine the associations between IWB and mental health (depression, anxiety, flourishing) in adolescents with higher weights, and to test the potential moderating role of gender.

Methods

Canadian adolescents with higher weights (N = 7538, 60% boys, 36% girls, 4% gender diverse, ages 12–19) from the COMPASS study completed a survey during the 2021–2022 school year. Data were analysed using generalized linear models.

Results

Highest IWB and poorest mental health were noted within gender diverse adolescents, followed by girls then boys. Gender moderated the relationship between higher IWB and higher depression, higher anxiety and lower flourishing, with the strongest relationships noted among girls.

Conclusion

IWB interventions should be tailored to gender subgroups that may be particularly vulnerable to maladaptive mental health outcomes associated with IWB. System‐level changes that mitigate perpetuation of weight bias and discrimination which lead to IWB are also essential, particularly for girls.
Irisin attenuates ventilator‐induced diaphragmatic dysfunction by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress through activation of AMPK
Authors: Zhang Jumei , Tu Rui , Guan Fasheng , Feng Jianguo , Jia Jing , Zhou Jun , Wang Xiaobin , Liu Li
Published: April 2024

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is an essential life‐saving technique, but prolonged MV can cause significant diaphragmatic dysfunction due to atrophy and decreased contractility of the diaphragm fibres, called ventilator‐induced diaphragmatic dysfunction (VIDD). It is not clear about the mechanism of occurrence and prevention measures of VIDD. Irisin is a newly discovered muscle factor that regulates energy metabolism. Studies have shown that irisin can exhibit protective effects by downregulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in a variety of diseases; whether irisin plays a protective role in VIDD has not been reported. Sprague–Dawley rats were mechanically ventilated to construct a VIDD model, and intervention was performed by intravenous administration of irisin. Diaphragm contractility, degree of atrophy, cross‐sectional areas (CSAs), ER stress markers, AMPK protein expression, oxidative stress indicators and apoptotic cell levels were measured at the end of the experiment.Our findings showed that as the duration of ventilation increased, the more severe the VIDD was, the degree of ER stress increased, and the expression of irisin decreased.ER stress may be one of the causes of VIDD. Intervention with irisin ameliorated VIDD by reducing the degree of ER stress, attenuating oxidative stress, and decreasing the apoptotic index. MV decreases the expression of phosphorylated AMPK in the diaphragm, whereas the use of irisin increases the expression of phosphorylated AMPK. Irisin may exert its protective effect by activating the phosphorylated AMPK pathway.
The physiological role of TRP channels in sleep and circadian rhythm
Authors: Woodard Geoffrey E. , Rosado Juan A. , Li He
Published: April 2024

TRP channels, are non‐specific cationic channels that are involved in multiple physiological processes that include salivation, cellular secretions, memory extinction and consolidation, temperature, pain, store‐operated calcium entry, thermosensation and functionality of the nervous system. Here we choose to look at the evidence that decisively shows how TRP channels modulate human neuron plasticity as it relates to the molecular neurobiology of sleep/circadian rhythm. There are numerous model organisms of sleep and circadian rhythm that are the results of the absence or genetic manipulation of the non‐specific cationic TRP channels. Drosophila and mice that have had their TRP channels genetically ablated or manipulated show strong evidence of changes in sleep duration, sleep activity, circadian rhythm and response to temperature, noxious odours and pattern of activity during both sleep and wakefulness along with cardiovascular and respiratory function during sleep. Indeed the role of TRP channels in regulating sleep and circadian rhythm is very interesting considering the parallel roles of TRP channels in thermoregulation and thermal response with concomitant responses in growth and degradation of neurites, peripheral nerves and neuronal brain networks. TRP channels provide evidence of an ability to create, regulate and modify our sleep and circadian rhythm in a wide array of physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In the current review, we summarize previous results and novel recent advances in the understanding of calcium ion entry via TRP channels in different sleep and circadian rhythm conditions. We discuss the role of TRP channels in sleep and circadian disorders.
Dexamethasone promotes renal fibrosis by upregulating ILT4 expression in myeloid‐derived suppressor cells
Authors: Gu Xiaowen , Zhang Lianmei , Sun Min , Zhou Ying , Ji Jinling , Xu YunFang , You Jianguo , Deng Zhikui
Published: April 2024

Studies have shown that adoptive transfer of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can alleviate various inflammatory diseases, including glomerulonephritis, but the long‐term effects of the transferred MDSCs are still unclear. In addition, although glucocorticoids exert immunosuppressive effects on inflammatory diseases by inducing the expansion of MDSCs, the impact of glucocorticoids on the immunosuppressive function of MDSCs and their molecular mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we found that adoptive transfer of MDSCs to doxorubicin‐induced focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) mice for eight consecutive weeks led to an increase in serum creatinine and proteinuria and aggravation of renal interstitial fibrosis. Similarly, 8 weeks of high‐dose dexamethasone administration exacerbated renal interstitial injury and interstitial fibrosis in doxorubicin‐induced mice, manifested as an increase in serum creatinine and proteinuria, collagen deposition and α‐SMA expression. On this basis, we found that dexamethasone could enhance MDSC expression and secretion of the fibrosis‐related cytokines TGF‐β and IL‐10. Mechanistically, we revealed that dexamethasone promotes the expression of immunoglobulin‐like transcription factor 4 (ILT4), which enhances the T‐cell inhibitory function of MDSCs and promotes the activation of STAT6, thereby strengthening the expression and secretion of TGF‐β and IL‐10. Knocking down ILT4 alleviated renal fibrosis caused by adoptive transfer of MDSCs. Therefore, our findings demonstrate that the role and mechanism of dexamethasone mediate the expression and secretion of TGF‐β and IL‐10 in MDSCs by promoting the expression of ILT4, thereby leading to renal fibrosis.
Optimizing lipid control in Taiwanese diabetic patients: A collaborative consensus by the Diabetes Association of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Taiwanese Association of Diabetes Educators
Authors: Shen Feng‐Chih , Chu Chih‐Hsun , Chen Jung‐Fu , Kuo Chin‐Sung , Hsu Chih‐Yao , Lin Ching‐Han , Sheen Yi‐Jing , Su Sheng‐Chiang , Tien Kai‐Jen , Lu Chieh‐Hua , Lee Chun‐Chuan , Yang Yi‐Sun , Tu Shih‐Te , Chen Po‐Tsang , Chen Ching‐Chu , Chien Ming‐Nan , Li Hung‐Yuan , Sheu Wayne Huey‐Herng , Huang Chien‐Ning , Wang Chih‐Yuan , Ou Horng‐Yih
Published: April 2024

We present an in‐depth analysis of dyslipidemia management strategies for patients with diabetes mellitus in Taiwan. It critically examines the disparity between established guideline recommendations and actual clinical practices, particularly in the context of evolving policies affecting statin prescriptions. The focus is on synthesizing the most recent findings concerning lipid management in patients with diabetes mellitus, with a special emphasis on establishing consensus regarding low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol treatment targets. The article culminates in providing comprehensive, evidence‐based recommendations tailored to the unique needs of those living with diabetes mellitus in Taiwan. It underscores the criticality of personalized care approaches, which incorporate multifaceted factors, and the integration of novel therapeutic options to enhance cardiovascular health outcomes.
Democracy and stock market returns
Authors: Lei Xun , Wisniewski Tomasz Piotr
Published: April 2024

In this article, we empirically examine the relation between democracy level and stock index returns in a sample of 74 countries. Compared with democracies, autocratic states are characterized by lower returns despite exhibiting higher return volatility. Even though this higher volatility can be mostly attributed to diversifiable country‐specific risk, the capital asset pricing model cannot explain the return differential. Instead, it is the level of investor protection that can fully account for the phenomenon described here. Autocratic leaders may be reluctant to promulgate regulations shielding investors, and the resultant expropriation depresses the returns realized by outsiders.
Nitrous Oxide Use for Pain in Labor, Conversion to Neuraxial Analgesia, and Birth Outcome
Authors: DeJoy Susan , Killeen Candice , Jackson‐Köhlin Donna , Psaltis Audrey , Knee Alexander
Published: April 2024

Introduction

A variety of labor pain management options is essential to patients and their care providers. Inhaled, patient controlled nitrous oxide (N2O) is a valuable addition to these options. The purpose of this study was to examine laboring patient, newborn, and provider characteristics associated with N2O use for pain relief in labor and to examine the association between N2O, conversion to neuraxial analgesia, and cesarean birth.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study of the first year of N2O use in one large academic medical center. Patients at least 37 weeks’ gestation who were admitted for labor with intended vaginal birth from August 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019, were included (N = 2605). Laboring patient and newborn factors and their relationship to N2O use were calculated as unadjusted and adjusted relative risks (RRs). Poisson regression was used to model the association between N2O use and subsequent use of neuraxial analgesia and type of birth for both nulliparous and multiparous patients.

Results

Overall, 20.2% of patients used N2O during labor. Multiparous patients were 24% less likely to use N2O than nulliparous patients (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.69‐0.84). Use of N2O did not differ significantly between patients cared for by midwives compared with patients cared for by physicians (RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.90‐1.00). In multivariable modeling, N2O use in multiparous patients was associated with a 17% decrease in use of neuraxial analgesia (RR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.73‐0.94). There was no association between N2O use and use of neuraxial analgesia in nulliparous patients (RR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.93‐1.06). N2O use was not associated with cesarean birth in either group.

Discussion

N2O is an important pain management option for laboring patients and those who care for them. Study results may assist midwives, physicians, and nurses in counseling patients about analgesia options.
Neural correlates of chocolate brand preference: A functional MRI study
Authors: Peiris Senal , Tobia Michael J. , Smith Andrew , Grun Emily , Elyan Rommy , Eslinger Paul J. , Yang Qing X. , Karunanayaka Prasanna
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

Preferences can be developed for, or against, specific brands and services. Using two functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiments, this study investigated two dissociable aspects of reward processing, craving and liking, in chocolate lovers. The goal was to further delineate the neural basis supporting branding effects using familiar chocolate (FC) and unfamiliar chocolate (UC) brand images.

Methods

In the first experiment, subjects rated their subjective craving and liking on a scale of 1‐5 (weak‐strong) for each FC and UC image. In the second experiment, they performed a choice task between FC and UC images.

Results

Both the craving and liking ratings were significantly greater for FC and were differentially correlated with choice behavior. Craving ratings predicted greater preference for UC, and liking ratings predicted greater preference for FC. A contrast of neural activity for UC versus FC choice trials revealed significantly greater activation for UC choices in the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus and right caudate head. Response times for the FC images were faster than UC images; fMRI activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex was significantly correlated with response times during FC trials, but not UC trials. These correlations were significantly different from each other at the group level.

Conclusions

The choices for branded chocolate products are driven by higher subjective reward ratings and lower neural processing demands.
Diversity of genome size and chromosome number in homothallic and heterothallic strains of the Closterium peracerosum–strigosum–littorale complex (Desmidiales, Zygnematophyceae, Streptophyta)
Authors: Tsuchikane Yuki , Watanabe Misaki , Kawaguchi Yawako W. , Uehara Koichi , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Sekimoto Hiroyuki , Tsuchimatsu Takashi
Published: April 2024

The evolutionary transitions of mating systems between outcrossing and self‐fertilization are often suggested to associate with the cytological and genomic changes, but the empirical reports are limited in multicellular organisms. Here we used the unicellular zygnematophycean algae, the Closterium peracerosum–strigosum–littorale (C. psl.) complex, to address whether genomic properties such as genome sizes and chromosome numbers are associated with mating system transitions between homothallism (self‐fertility) and heterothallism (self‐sterility). Phylogenetic analysis revealed the polyphyly of homothallic strains, suggesting multiple transitions between homothallism and heterothallism in the C. psl. complex. Flow cytometry analysis identified a more than 2‐fold genome size variation, ranging from 0.53 to 1.42 Gbp, which was positively correlated with chromosome number variation between strains. Although we did not find consistent trends in genome size change and mating system transitions, the mean chromosome sizes tend to be smaller in homothallic strains than in their relative heterothallic strains. This result suggests that homothallic strains possibly have more fragmented chromosomes, which is consistent with the argument that self‐fertilizing populations may tolerate more chromosomal rearrangements.
Occupancy model reveals limited detectability of lichens in a standardised large‐scale monitoring
Authors: von Hirschheydt Gesa , Kéry Marc , Ekman Stefan , Stofer Silvia , Dietrich Michael , Keller Christine , Scheidegger Christoph
Published: April 2024

Question

What are the extent and the possible causes of imperfect detection in lichens? Because lichens are sessile and lack seasonality, they should be easier to survey than animals that can move or plants and fungi with seasonal morphology, and one could therefore expect relatively high detection probabilities.

Location

826 standardised sampling plots across Switzerland.

Methods

Using repeated detection/non‐detection data from a national lichen survey conducted by professional lichenologists, we estimated the mean and variation in detectability for 373 tree‐living species with a multi‐species occupancy model. We also quantified the effect of species conspicuousness, identifiability and observer experience on detection probability.

Results

The average detection probability for a single survey was unexpectedly low with an average of 0.49 (range across species: 0.25–0.74). Conspicuous species showed higher average detectability (0.56) than inconspicuous species (0.41), and identifiability as well as previous experience with a species substantially increased the probability of a person detecting it. Accounting for experience, the mean detection probabilities of observers ranged from 0.32 to 0.69.

Conclusions

Our study confirms that detection probability per survey is often far below 1 also in sessile organisms, even when a standardised survey is conducted by experts. When species are seasonal (plants, fungi, etc.), survey areas are larger, or field personnel are less experienced, as is the case for many surveys and monitoring programs, detectabilities are likely to be substantially lower. We therefore argue that imperfect detection should systematically be considered in the survey design and data analysis also for sessile organisms.