bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change-stock return volatility nexus in advanced economies: the role of technology shocks
Authors: Penzin Dinci J. , Isah Kazeem O. , Salisu Afees A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Given the systemic nature of climate change, there are many interdependencies between its primary components and feedback loops, emphasising the need to simultaneously consider the stock market implications of physical and transitional climate-related risks. More importantly, carbon emissions are expected to be reduced through various transition pathways. However, transitional climate risks have been validated as capable of predicting stock market behaviour, hence the motivation for the role of technology shocks.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a GARCH-MIDAS model to examine the relationship between climate change and stock return volatility since it enables data analysis at various frequencies within the same framework. We employ a novel dataset to track technology shocks, and the study spans decades of data from 1880 to 2018.

Findings

We find that the relationship between climate change and stock return volatility is episodic and varies with different degrees of intensity of high-temperature anomalies and technology shocks. Our results suggest that policy actions should include investing in climate technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging investment in eco-friendly assets.

Originality/value

There has been little or no consideration for the probable complementary effects of physical and transition climate-related risks on stock markets. Hence, the novelty in the context of this study is the hypothesis that transitional risks, if explored from the point of view of technological innovations, can moderate the stock market’s vulnerability to physical climate risks.
A survey of attitudes, behaviors and experiences of Nigerian investors in cryptocurrencies
Authors: Ayadi Olusegun Felix , Paseda Oluseun , Oke Babatunde Olufemi , Oladimeji Abiodun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Given the many activities of Nigerian investors in the crypto ecosystem, this paper investigates the level of their awareness, attitudes, risk tolerance, experience, reasons for investing and level of financial literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The research approach is based on a self-administered questionnaire. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) permitted the use of its reliable and validated survey instrument, administered in Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam in 2019. The results are tabulated and analyzed.

Findings

The key results include the participation of respondents, who are generally young males, not fully financially literate but risk-averse. Many held the false view that investing in global markets is a higher risk than in national markets. Their reasons for investing in crypto include the fear of missing out on good opportunities and the desire to have fun. The results also revealed that social media, conversations with non-experts and online articles are among the most used investment information sources, highlighting the role of digital platforms and informal discussions in shaping perceptions and knowledge about cryptocurrencies. Investments in cryptos are financed through savings, regular monthly budgets or borrowed from friends or family. As for specific attitudes to risk, the results suggest that for most respondents, preserving their invested capital is of paramount importance.

Originality/value

The importance of this research also resides in the possibility of comparing the crypto ecosystem in Asia with Nigeria because the same OECD data instrument is employed in data collection. Moreover, this study is the most comprehensive research about Nigerian investors in cryptocurrencies.
Examining mediating and moderating influences among career competencies and leadership aspiration
Authors: Nair Asha Lakshmy , Senthil Kumar S.A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between career competencies and leadership aspiration among women IT/ITeS professionals in South India, examining the mediating effects of work role salience and occupational self-efficacy, along with the moderating effect of achievement aspiration.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 348 women professionals working in the IT/ITeS industry in South India. The study adopts a descriptive methodology and employs a cross-sectional research design.

Findings

The result shows that work role salience mediates the relationship between career competencies and leadership aspiration and that this mediation is moderated by achievement aspiration. Additionally, occupational self-efficacy is found to have a supplementary effect on leadership aspiration, further contributing to the model.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the limitations of online data collection, the study showcases adaptability, providing valuable insights into women's career aspirations. It acknowledges opportunities for future research improvements, such as implementing longitudinal frameworks and incorporating a more diverse sample, to enhance the robustness and applicability of findings.

Practical implications

The study offers valuable insights for managers, researchers and academia, aiding in the identification of crucial competencies for women aspiring to leadership roles, and fostering the retention of top talent in a diverse and inclusive work environment. Individuals can leverage these insights for enhanced career development by recognizing and emphasizing strengths while addressing weaknesses through accurate self-assessments.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel perspective by identifying the essential competencies that are crucial for women to achieve leadership positions, thus making a valuable contribution to the existing literature in the field.
The white picket fence: how Millennials and Baby Boomers view the American Dream
Authors: Scott Kristin , Meng Juan , Kuzma Ann
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The American Dream is tightly woven into the American culture and way of life. Despite the importance and ubiquitous nature of the American Dream, the topic is difficult to define and belief in the attainability of the American Dream changes over time. Because of the little academic research on the topic, this study aims to fill this gap and investigate what people think about the American Dream and what factors influence the perception that this concept is outdated among different two generations – Baby Boomers and Millennials.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey containing both open-ended and close-ended questions was conducted in two age groups via Qualtrics – 245 Millennials (born 1980–1996) and 253 Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964). Open-ended questions were analyzed using NVivo and closed-ended questions were analyzed using SPSS. Items on the online survey measured the definition of the American Dream, factors in defining it, the relevancy and attainability of the Dream, whether it was outdated, as well as Schwartz’s list of values (Lindeman and Verkasalo, 2005).

Findings

Three research questions were investigated. First, the results show that Baby Boomers and Millennials define the Dream similarly in terms of a house, family, happiness, freedom and equality. Second, they differ, however, in whether they believe that the Dream is relevant and attainable. Specifically, only Baby Boomers believe that the Dream is still relevant, but both generations believe that it is harder for younger generations to achieve the Dream. Third, the authors found similarities and differences in terms of demographics and values predicting whether the two generations believed that the Dream is outdated, and new values should be added. For both generations, values were more likely to predict the belief that the Dream was outdated. Using Schwartz’s values, those high in universalism were more likely to believe that the Dream was outdated and that new values should be added to the definition of the Dream for both generations. The values of security, self-direction, achievement and benevolence differed between the generations in believing that the Dream was outdated and that new values should be added.

Originality/value

This research provides insight into how these macrolevel beliefs influence people at the microlevel and how businesses or public policymakers can use these concepts to influence attitudes or behaviors.
Can faster growth compensate for increased mortality in subtropical dry forest fragments?
Authors: Moscato Vanessa , McDonald William J. F. , Balle‐Hosking Birte , Dwyer John M.
Published: May 2024

Capturing the effects of fragmentation and ongoing changing climate on the population dynamics of long‐lived trees requires long‐term datasets, but these are uncommon in rainforests and dry forests outside of the tropics.

This study capitalised on nine 0.04‐ha permanent plots established in 1982 within corridors of old‐growth subtropical dry forest (Araucarian vine forest) retained as fire breaks within forestry plantations in Imbil (southern Queensland, Australia). Tree diameter growth and survival were censused in 1997 and 2021, resulting in two monitoring periods.

The most recent period was associated with an increasing trend in vapour pressure deficit (VPD). Consistent with this trend, we found that survival was substantially lower across all size classes in the second period.

Mortality‐induced reductions in stem density were associated with faster growth rates in all but the largest stems in the second period. Growth was also moderately faster in plots near forest edges in the second period.

The richness of obligate understory species declined significantly by an average of 1.44 species over the 40‐year study period.

Synthesis and applications: Overall, our results are consistent with increasing tree mortality rates reported recently for the Australian wet tropics and suggest widespread and alarming impacts of increasing VPD on rainforest and dry forest community dynamics. To increase forest resilience in a changing climate, we recommend the retention of a buffer of plantation trees adjacent to old‐growth forest corridors; widening the forest corridors using faster‐growing species identified in this study and maintaining connections between scrub breaks and larger tracts of forest for species dispersal.
The utility of serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin level on predicting autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease progression
Authors: Uysal Cihan , Koyuncu Sumeyra , Ipekten Funda , Karakukcu Cigdem , Kocyigit Ismail
Published: May 2024

Introduction

We focused on neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) progression.

Methods

ADPKD patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 were included. Serum NGAL level and NGAL to eGFR ratio (NGR), height‐adjusted total kidney volume (hTKV) were assessed initially. Patients were followed‐up for 5 years.

Results

Sixty one patients were enrolled and initial eGFR was 73.6 (48.9–101.5) ml/min/1.73m2. EGFR declined by 3.7 mL/min/1.73m2 per year. Thirty four patients (55.7%) exhibited rapid progression. Rapid progression group had lower serum NGAL levels (p < 0.001) and higher hTKV (p < 0.001). Lower serum NGAL level was a risk factor for rapid progression (p < 0.001). NGR was not associated with rapid progression. Serum NGAL level was predictive in for rapid progression ROC analysis (cut‐off <10.62 ng/mL).

Conclusion

Relatively lower serum NGAL levels can predict worse outcomes in ADPKD and can provide risk stratification in patients with ADPKD.
vAMPirus: A versatile amplicon processing and analysis program for studying viruses
Authors: Veglia Alex J. , Rivera‐Vicéns Ramón E. , Grupstra Carsten G. B. , Howe‐Kerr Lauren I. , Correa Adrienne M. S.
Published: May 2024

Amplicon sequencing is an effective and increasingly applied method for studying viral communities in the environment. Here, we present vAMPirus, a user‐friendly, comprehensive, and versatile DNA and RNA virus amplicon sequence analysis program, designed to support investigators in exploring virus amplicon sequencing data and running informed, reproducible analyses. vAMPirus intakes raw virus amplicon libraries and, by default, performs nucleotide‐ and amino acid‐based analyses to produce results such as sequence abundance information, taxonomic classifications, phylogenies and community diversity metrics. The vAMPirus analytical framework leverages 16 different opensource tools and provides optional approaches that can increase the ratio of biological signal‐to‐noise and thereby reveal patterns that would have otherwise been masked. Here, we validate the vAMPirus analytical framework and illustrate its implementation as a general virus amplicon sequencing workflow by recapitulating findings from two previously published double‐stranded DNA virus datasets. As a case study, we also apply the program to explore the diversity and distribution of a coral reef‐associated RNA virus. vAMPirus is streamlined within Nextflow, offering straightforward scalability, standardization and communication of virus lineage‐specific analyses. The vAMPirus framework is designed to be adaptable; community‐driven analytical standards will continue to be incorporated as the field advances. vAMPirus supports researchers in revealing patterns of virus diversity and population dynamics in nature, while promoting study reproducibility and comparability.
Changes in self‐reported cannabis use in the United States from 1979 to 2022
Authors: Caulkins Jonathan P.
Published: May 2024

Background and aims

Multiple countries are considering revising cannabis policies. This study aimed to measure long‐term trends in cannabis use in the United States and compare them with alcohol use.

Design and setting

Secondary analysis of United States general population survey data.

Participants

The national surveys had a total of 1 641 041 participants across 27 surveys from 1979 to 2022.

Measurements

Rates of use reported to the US National Survey on Drug Use and Health and its predecessors are described, as are trends in days of use reported. Four milepost years are contrasted: 1979 (first available data and end of relatively liberal policies of the 1970s), 1992 (end of 12 years of conservative Reagan‐Bush era policies), 2008 (last year before the Justice Department signaled explicit federal non‐interference with state‐level legalizations) and 2022 (most recent data available).

Findings

Reported cannabis use declined to a nadir in 1992, with partial recovery through 2008, and substantial increases since then, particularly for measures of more intensive use. Between 2008 and 2022, the per capita rate of reporting past‐year use increased by 120%, and days of use reported per capita increased by 218% (in absolute terms from the annual equivalent of 2.3 to 8.1 billion days per year). From 1992 to 2022, there was a 15‐fold increase in the per capita rate of reporting daily or near daily use. Whereas the 1992 survey recorded 10 times as many daily or near daily alcohol as cannabis users (8.9 vs. 0.9 M), the 2022 survey, for the first time, recorded more daily and near daily users of cannabis than alcohol (17.7 vs. 14.7 M). Far more people drink, but high‐frequency drinking is less common. In 2022, the median drinker reported drinking on 4–5 days in the past month, versus 15–16 days in the past month for cannabis. In 2022, past‐month cannabis consumers were almost four times as likely to report daily or near daily use (42.3% vs. 10.9%) and 7.4 times more likely to report daily use (28.2% vs. 3.8%).

Conclusions

Long‐term trends in cannabis use in the United States parallel corresponding changes in cannabis policy, with declines during periods of greater restriction and growth during periods of policy liberalization. A growing share of cannabis consumers report daily or near daily use, and their numbers now exceed the number of daily and near daily drinkers.
Introduction of enhanced weekend physiotherapy for patients with hip fracture is associated with improved early mobility outcomes
Authors: Ní Chróinín Danielle , Ghimire Ram , McEvoy Lynette , Lieu David , Jennings Matt , Gallagher Kristen , Katyal Anubhav , Mahmood Daniel , Boey Jonathan , Tcharkhedian Elise
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess whether enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy (EWP) for patients with hip fracture was associated with improved clinical outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed all previously ambulatory adults admitted with hip fracture to our tertiary hospital, comparing ‘usual’ (‘control’) care (09/19–03/20) to EWP (09/20–03/21). Outcomes included Day‐7 mobility ≥20 m (primary), additional mobility measures, specified postoperative complications, new residential facility placement, acute length‐of‐stay (LOS) and 30‐day death.

Results

Amongst 235 eligible patients (128 control, 107 EWP), 66% were female, mean age was 80.4 years (SD 10.5), 20% from residential care and 49% (114/235) were mobilising without aid at baseline (no between‐group differences; all p ≥ .20). Median acute LOS was 10 days (IQR 6–15), total hospital LOS was 21 days (IQR 12–37) and 3% (n = 6) died by Day 30. Median Day‐7 distance mobilised was 25 m (IQR 7–50) with EWP versus 10 m (3–40) (p = .06). No EWP patients developed pressure injury (0 vs. 6, p = .02); other outcomes were similar between groups. Adjusting for age, residence, baseline cognitive impairment, American Society of Anesthesiologist score and preadmission mobilisation without aids, EWP was independently associated with increased likelihood of mobilising ≥20 m at Day 7 (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.04–3.23, p = .03).

Conclusions

Enhanced daily weekend physiotherapy was associated with improvement in early mobility, but not other outcomes assessed. These data would be strengthened by randomised controlled trial data exploring more intense physiotherapy, cost–benefit analysis and patient experience measures.
Current practices and challenges in genetic testing and counseling for women with breast and ovarian cancer in Asia
Authors: Kwong Ava , Tan David S‐P , Ryu Jai Min ,   the ACROSS Consortium
Published: May 2024

Aim

This study assesses current practices and challenges in genetic testing and counseling (GT and C) for breast cancer gene (BRCA)1/2 mutations in Asia, considering the increased risk of ovarian cancer (OC) and breast cancer (BC) in women carrying these mutations.

Methods

Insights were gathered through a questionnaire from breast surgeons, gynecologists, oncologists, and genetic clinicians in 10 Asian countries: Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, India, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Singapore, and Indonesia. The questionnaire covered their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in GT and C for BRCA1/2 mutations, along with information on perceived gaps and unmet needs in the region.

Results

A total of 61 specialists participated in the survey. GT and C for BRCA1/2 mutations were less frequently offered in Asia compared to Western countries. Among the guidelines used, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines alone or in combination with other guidelines (American Society of Clinical Oncology [ASCO], National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence [NICE], and European Society for Medical Oncology [ESMO]) were preferred for both BC and OC. Limited access to genetic counselors posed a significant challenge, resulting in delayed or no GT. Pretest genetic counseling was provided by the respondents themselves. Germline testing was preferred for BC, whereas both germline and somatic testing were preferred for OC, with the most preferred option being a multipanel germline test.

Conclusion

Disparities exist in GT and C practices between Asian and Western countries. To address this, steps, such as patient and doctor education, increased accessibility and affordability of GT and C services, and improved infrastructure for identifying gene mutations, should be taken.
Music therapy in tertiary neonatal intensive care: A matter of unlikely allies?
Authors: Jaschke Artur C. , Mitra Subhabrata , Bos Arend F.
Published: May 2024

Over the past decades, music therapy in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has been proven effective in physiological and psychological outcomes, including sucking, behaviour, stress reduction, neurodevelopment and promoting emotional bonding. However, not every NICU administers music therapy in their ward. Research on music therapy for neonates and their caregivers has lately accumulated, increasing the evidence of health benefits on brain development and across a variety of NICU‐related pathologies, including neurological, cardiological, pulmonary and gastrointestinal problems. Conclusively, we will present the studied methods of music therapy for clinical benefits in neonatal intensive care.
Civic geographies: A commentary and call for Area
Authors: Jenkins Lloyd , Blunt Alison
Published: May 2024

This commentary introduces civic geographies as a theme in Area, where papers can be collected, allowing a space for discussion at a time when the civic university agenda has become a priority for the sector. It calls for the discipline to share and debate ideas about civic geographies, showcase civic geographical research and teaching, and create a community of practice to develop approaches to engagement and social responsibility.
Inflammatory profile of lower risk myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Topping Joanne , Taylor Adele , Nadat Fatima , Crouch Simon , Ibbotson Alice , Čermák Jaroslav , Symeonidis Argiris , Tatic Aurelia , Langemeijer Saskia , Hellström‐Lindberg Eva , Culligan Dominic , Garelius Hege Gravdahl , Ashcroft John , Nga Emma , Parker Jane , Kolade Seye , McDermott Michael F. , De Witte Theo , Bowen David , Smith Alexandra , Cargo Catherine , Savic Sinisa ,   ImmunAID consortium and EU‐MDS consortium
Published: May 2024

The precise link between inflammation and pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is yet to be fully established. We developed a novel method to measure ASC/NLRP3 protein specks which are specific for the NLRP3 inflammasome only. We combined this with cytokine profiling to characterise various inflammatory markers in a large cohort of patients with lower risk MDS in comparison to healthy controls and patients with defined autoinflammatory disorders (AIDs). The ASC/NLRP3 specks were significantly elevated in MDS patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.001) and these levels were comparable to those found in patients with AIDs. The distribution of protein specks positive only for ASC was different to ASC/NLRP3 ones suggesting that other ASC‐containing inflammasome complexes might be important in the pathogenesis of MDS. Patients with MDS‐SLD had the lowest levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), IL‐23, IL‐33, interferon (IFN) γ and IFN‐α2, compared to other diagnostic categories. We also found that inflammatory cytokine TNF was positively associated with MDS progression to a more aggressive form of disease and IL‐6 and IL‐1β with time to first red blood cell transfusion. Our study shows that there is value in analysing inflammatory biomarkers in MDS, but their diagnostic and prognostic utility is yet to be fully validated.
Non‐coding RNAs to treat vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction
Authors: Brown Simon D. , Klimi Eftychia , Bakker Wilfried A. M. , Beqqali Abdelaziz , Baker Andrew H.
Published: May 2024

Vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) dysfunction is a critical contributor to cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, restenosis and vein graft failure. Recent advances have unveiled a fascinating range of non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that play a pivotal role in regulating vSMC function. This review aims to provide an in‐depth analysis of the mechanisms underlying vSMC dysfunction and the therapeutic potential of various ncRNAs in mitigating this dysfunction, either preventing or reversing it. We explore the intricate interplay of microRNAs, long‐non‐coding RNAs and circular RNAs, shedding light on their roles in regulating key signalling pathways associated with vSMC dysfunction. We also discuss the prospects and challenges associated with developing ncRNA‐based therapies for this prevalent type of cardiovascular pathology.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
Clinical and genetic investigation of 14 families with various forms of short stature syndromes
Authors: Khan Fati Ullah , Khan Hammal , Ullah Kifayat , Nawaz Shoaib , Abdullah  , Khan Muhammad Javed , Ahmed Sohail , Ilyas Muhammad , Ali Amjad , Ullah Imran , Sohail Aamir , Hussain Shabir , Ahmad Farooq , Faisal  , Sufyan Raza , Hayat Amir , Hanif Tooba , Bibi Fatima , Hayat Maria , Ullah Rehmat , Khan Inam Ullah , Ali Raja Hussain , Hasni Muhammad Sharif , Ali Hamid , Bilal Muhammad , Peralta Susana , Buchert Rebecca , Zehri Zamrud , Hassan Gul , Liaqat Khurrum , Zahid Muhammad , Shah Khadim , Mikitie Outi , Haack Tobias B. , Ji Weizhen , Lakhani Saquib A. , Ansar Muhammad , Ahmad Wasim
Published: May 2024

Skeletal dysplasias are a heterogeneous group of disorders presenting mild to lethal defects. Several factors, such as genetic, prenatal, and postnatal environmental may contribute to reduced growth. Fourteen families of Pakistani origin, presenting the syndromic form of short stature either in the autosomal recessive or autosomal dominant manner were clinically and genetically investigated to uncover the underlying genetic etiology. Homozygosity mapping, whole exome sequencing, and Sanger sequencing were used to search for the disease‐causing gene variants. In total, we have identified 13 sequence variants in 10 different genes. The variants in the HSPG2 and XRCC4 genes were not reported previously in the Pakistani population. This study will expand the mutation spectrum of the identified genes and will help in improved diagnosis of the syndromic form of short stature in the local population.
Tracking the Cognitive Band in an Open‐Ended Task
Authors: Anderson John R. , Betts Shawn , Bothell Daniel , Dimov Cvetomir M. , Fincham Jon M.
Published: May 2024

Open‐ended tasks can be decomposed into the three levels of Newell's Cognitive Band: the Unit‐Task level, the Operation level, and the Deliberate‐Act level. We analyzed the video game Co‐op Space Fortress at these levels, reporting both the match of a cognitive model to subject behavior and the use of electroencephalogram (EEG) to track subject cognition. The Unit Task level in this game involves coordinating with a partner to kill a fortress. At this highest level of the Cognitive Band, there is a good match between subject behavior and the model. The EEG signals were also strong enough to track when Unit Tasks succeeded or failed. The intermediate Operation level in this task involves legs of flight to achieve a kill. The EEG signals associated with these operations are much weaker than the signals associated with the Unit Tasks. Still, it was possible to reconstruct subject play with much better than chance success. There were significant differences in the leg behavior of subjects and models. Model behavior did not provide a good basis for interpreting a subject's behavior at this level. At the lowest Deliberate‐Act level, we observed overlapping key actions, which the model did not display. Such overlapping key actions also frustrated efforts to identify EEG signals of motor actions. We conclude that the Unit‐task level is the appropriate level both for understanding open‐ended tasks and for using EEG to track the performance of open‐ended tasks.
Melatonin promotes hair regeneration by modulating the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Niu Yi‐Lin , Li Yu‐Kang , Gao Chen‐Xi , Li Wen‐Wen , Li Li , Wang Han , Shen Wei , Ge Wei
Published: May 2024

Melatonin (MLT) is a circadian hormone that reportedly influences the development and cyclic growth of secondary hair follicles; however, the mechanism of regulation remains unknown. Here, we systematically investigated the role of MLT in hair regeneration using a hair depilation mouse model. We found that MLT supplementation significantly promoted hair regeneration in the hair depilation mouse model, whereas supplementation of MLT receptor antagonist luzindole significantly suppressed hair regeneration. By analysing gene expression dynamics between the MLT group and luzindole‐treated groups, we revealed that MLT supplementation significantly up‐regulated Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway‐related genes. In‐depth analysis of the expression of key molecules in the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway revealed that MLT up‐regulated the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway in dermal papillae (DP), whereas these effects were facilitated through mediating Wnt ligand expression levels in the hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs). Using a DP‐HFSCs co‐culture system, we verified that MLT activated Wnt/β‐catenin signalling in DPs when co‐cultured with HFSCs, whereas supplementation of DP cells with MLT alone failed to activate Wnt/β‐catenin signalling. In summary, our work identified a critical role for MLT in promoting hair regeneration and will have potential implications for future hair loss treatment in humans.
ADAR1 promotes cisplatin resistance in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma by regulating BRCA2 expression through A‐to‐I editing manner
Authors: Liu Qi , Huang Chen‐Song , Chen Siyun , Zhu Ying‐Qin , Huang Xi‐Tai , Zhao Guang‐Yin , Xu Qiong‐Cong , Shi Yin‐Hao , Li Wen , Wang Ruizhi , Yin Xiao‐Yu
Published: May 2024

Aberrant A‐to‐I RNA editing, mediated by ADAR1 has been found to be associated with increased tumourigenesis and the development of chemotherapy resistance in various types of cancer. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, and overcoming chemotherapy resistance poses a significant clinical challenge. This study aimed to clarify the roles of ADAR1 in tumour resistance to cisplatin in iCCA. We discovered that ADAR1 expression is elevated in iCCA patients, particularly in those resistant to cisplatin, and associated with poor clinical outcomes. Downregulation of ADAR1 can increase the sensitivity of iCCA cells to cisplatin treatment, whereas its overexpression has the inverse effect. By integrating RNA sequencing and Sanger sequencing, we identified BRCA2, a critical DNA damage repair gene, as a downstream target of ADAR1 in iCCA. ADAR1 mediates the A‐to‐I editing in BRCA2 3′UTR, inhibiting miR‐3157‐5p binding, consequently increasing BRCA2 mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, ADAR1 enhances cellular DNA damage repair ability and facilitates cisplatin resistance in iCCA cells. Combining ADAR1 targeting with cisplatin treatment markedly enhances the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin. In conclusion, ADAR1 promotes tumour progression and cisplatin resistance of iCCA. ADAR1 targeting could inform the development of innovative combination therapies for iCCA.
Association between recent exposure to continuous glucose monitoring‐recorded hypoglycaemia and counterregulatory and symptom responses to subsequent controlled hypoglycaemia in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Svensson Cecilie H. , Fabricius Therese W. , Verhulst Clementine E. M. , Kristensen Peter L. , Tack Cees J. , Heller Simon R. , Amiel Stephanie A. , McCrimmon Rory J. , Evans Mark , Holst Jens J. , de Galan Bastiaan E. , Pedersen‐Bjergaard Ulrik ,   the Hypo‐RESOLVE consortium
Published: May 2024

Aim

Experimental hypoglycaemia blunts the counterregulatory hormone and symptom responses to a subsequent episode of hypoglycaemia. In this study, we aimed to assess the associations between antecedent exposure and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)‐recorded hypoglycaemia during a 1‐week period and the counterregulatory responses to subsequent experimental hypoglycaemia in people with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐two people with type 1 diabetes (20 females, mean ± SD glycated haemoglobin 7.8% ± 1.0%, diabetes duration median (interquartile range) 22.0 (10.5‐34.9) years, 29 CGM users, and 19 with impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia) wore an open intermittently scanned CGM for 1 week to detect hypoglycaemic exposure before a standardized hyperinsulinaemic‐hypoglycaemic [2.8 ± 0.1 mmol/L (50.2 ± 2.3 mg/dl)] glucose clamp. Symptom responses and counterregulatory hormones were measured during the clamp. The study is part of the HypoRESOLVE project.

Results

CGM‐recorded hypoglycaemia in the week before the clamp was negatively associated with adrenaline response [β −0.09, 95% CI (−0.16, −0.02) nmol/L, p = .014], after adjusting for CGM use, awareness of hypoglycaemia, glycated haemoglobin and total daily insulin dose. This was driven by level 2 hypoglycaemia [<3.0 mmol/L (54 mg/dl)] [β −0.21, 95% CI (−0.41, −0.01) nmol/L, p = .034]. CGM‐recorded hypoglycaemia was negatively associated with total, autonomic, and neuroglycopenic symptom responses, but these associations were lost after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions

Recent exposure to CGM‐detected hypoglycaemia was independently associated with an attenuated adrenaline response to experimental hypoglycaemia in people with type 1 diabetes.
Judicial institutional design and corporate litigation: Evidence from a natural experiment in China
Authors: Lu Shengfeng , Tian Hui , Zhao Yan , Sun Yukun
Published: May 2024

The judicial institutions of a country impact corporate litigation. From 2003 to 2010, China allowed the appointed secretaries of the Committee of Political and Legislative Affairs to hold concurrent administrative roles (CAR) as directors of the Police Departments in their respective provinces. Such a policy provides a natural experiment on the change of the judicial environment. In this paper, we employ a Staggered Difference‐in‐Differences method to study the effect of changes in judicial institution on corporate litigation using data on publicly traded corporations from 1998 to 2010. We find corporations engage in fewer corporate litigations during the time period of China's CAR policy (i.e., when judicial justice was likely weaker). Further analysis shows that the probability of winning lawsuits increases for non‐state‐owned enterprises. Mechanism analysis shows that the CAR policy heightens the uncertainty of economic policies by changing companies' perceptions of the status of political and legal institutions in the judicial system, thereby reducing corporate judicial participation.
How accurate do self‐reported seizures need to be for effective medication management in epilepsy?
Authors: Goldenholz Daniel , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , Westover M. Brandon
Published: May 2024

Studies suggest that self‐reported seizure diaries suffer from 50% under‐reporting on average. It is unknown to what extent this impacts medication management. This study used simulation to predict the seizure outcomes of a large heterogeneous clinic population treated with a standardized algorithm based on self‐reported seizures. Using CHOCOLATES, a state‐of‐the‐art realistic seizure diary simulator, 100 000 patients were simulated over 10 years. A standard algorithm for medication management was employed at 3 month intervals for all patients. The impact on true seizure rates, expected seizure rates, and time‐to‐steady‐dose were computed for self‐reporting sensitivities 0%–100%. Time‐to‐steady‐dose and medication use mostly did not depend on sensitivity. True seizure rate decreased minimally with increasing self‐reporting in a non‐linear fashion, with the largest decreases at low sensitivity rates (0%–10%). This study suggests that an extremely wide range of sensitivity will have similar seizure outcomes when patients are clinically treated using an algorithm similar to the one presented. Conversely, patients with sensitivity ≤10% would be expected to benefit (via lower seizure rates) from objective devices that provide even small improvements in seizure sensitivity.
Recreational fisheries selectively capture and harvest large predators
Authors: Flink Henrik , Sundblad Göran , Merilä Juha , Tibblin Petter
Published: May 2024

Size‐ and species‐selective harvest inevitably alters the composition of targeted populations and communities. This can potentially harm fish stocks, ecosystem functionality, and related services, as evidenced in numerous commercial fisheries. The high popularity of rod‐and‐reel recreational fishing, practiced by hundreds of millions globally, raises concerns about similar deteriorating effects. Despite its prevalence, the species and size selectivity of recreational fisheries remain largely unquantified due to a lack of combined catch data and fisheries‐independent surveys. This study addresses this gap by using standardised monitoring data and over 60,000 digital angling catch reports from 62 distinct fisheries. The findings demonstrate a pronounced selectivity in recreational fisheries, targeting top predators and large individuals. Catch‐and‐release practices reduced the overall harvest by 60% but did not substantially alter this selectivity. The strong species‐ and size‐specific selectivity mirror patterns observed in other fisheries, emphasising the importance of managing the potential adverse effects of recreational fisheries selective mortality and overfishing.
Metabolic rate of two invasive Ponto‐Caspian goby species and their native competitors in the context of global warming
Authors: Kłosiński Piotr , Kobak Jarosław , Kakareko Tomasz
Published: May 2024

In connection with the expansion of alien gobies in European waters, a question arises whether this process can be enhanced or inhibited by global warming. The gobies are of Ponto‐Caspian origin, where the climate is warmer than in invaded European areas. Therefore, they are likely to cope physiologically with climate warming better than native species. Our aim was to identify differences in metabolic traits under elevated summer temperature between the invasive gobies and their native counterparts.

Using a laboratory respirometer, we compared the effect of elevated summer temperature (25 vs. 17°C) on the metabolic responses of fish in two species pairs consisting of an invasive goby versus its native counterpart from the same ecological guild: the invasive racer goby Babka gymnotrachelus versus native European bullhead Cottus gobio, and the invasive monkey goby Neogobius fluviatilis versus native gudgeon Gobio gobio. The paired species share functional traits, including morphological characteristics, despite belonging to different fish families. After 4 weeks of acclimation, standard metabolic rate (SMR), maximum metabolic rate (MMR) and aerobic scope (AS = MMR–SMR) of the fish were determined.

We found that SMR increased under elevated temperature irrespective of species, yet it was always lower in the gobies than in natives. The MMR of the racer goby was lower than that of the bullhead across all temperatures, whereas no differences in MMR were found between the gudgeon and monkey goby. On the one hand, the elevated temperature did not affect the AS of the racer goby and bullhead. However, the AS of the racer goby was consistently lower than that of the bullhead across all temperatures. On the other, elevated temperature caused a decrease in AS in both the monkey goby and gudgeon. However, this temperature‐induced change in AS was higher in the gudgeon than in the monkey goby.

In terms of AS, the invaders did not always outperform the natives at higher temperatures. However, the invaders had lower living costs by maintaining a lower SMR. These results suggest that invasion by gobies may be facilitated by global warming, which is likely to increase their occurrence and effect on local fish communities in freshwater temperate systems.
Optimization of a TEOS addition on plasma resistance of YAG ceramics
Authors: Zhao Cheng‐Cai , Kim Eun‐Bi , Park Young‐Jo , Logesh Govindasamy , Kim Mi‐Ju , Lee Jae‐Wook , Ma Ho Jin , Kim Ha‐Neul , Ko Jae‐Woong , Yoon Seog‐Young
Published: May 2024

The influence of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) on the plasma etching behavior of yttrium aluminum garnet (Y3Al5O12, yttrium aluminum garnet [YAG]) was systematically studied. Dense YAG bulk specimens were hot‐press sintered at a relatively low temperature of 1450°C for 2 h under 20 MPa, using TEOS as a sintering additive. The etching properties of YAG ceramics, doped with different TEOS contents, were evaluated using an inductively coupled plasma etcher with an incident plasma power of 1500 W for up to 2 h. It was observed that the addition of .3 wt.% TEOS optimally reduced the surface roughness of YAG ceramics post‐plasma etching. Transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray fluorescence tests clarified that a densification‐promoting TEOS‐induced residual Si‐rich phase at the triple junction for the over‐doped TEOS (≥.5 wt.%) specimen acts as a pit‐initiation site during plasma etching, which eventually results in increased surface roughness.
Preparation and property of porous calcium silicate ceramic by two‐step ultrafast high‐temperature sintering
Authors: Liu Qiang , Guo Shichang , Leng Senlin , Zhang Hong , Cao Zhenzhu
Published: May 2024

Porous calcium silicate ceramic has been prepared by ultrafast high‐temperature process in several minutes. The effect of sintering current and starch content on the phase composition, pore structure, compressive strength, and air permeability have been investigated. Homogeneous pores can be formed during the fast decomposition of calcium silicate hydrate, calcium carbonate, and starch. The optimized composition shows the high compressive strength (over 7 MPa), porosity (60.8%), and air permeability (379.4 L/m2 s). Results showed that the ultrafast high‐temperature sintering method can achieve homogenous porous structure in much shorter time than conventional furnace sintering.
The labour market and tax policy drivers of self‐employment: New evidence from Europe
Authors: ÉGERT Balázs , MOUROUGANE Annabelle
Published: May 2024

Using cross‐country time series panel regressions for 1995‐2022, this article seeks to identify the main labour market and tax policies affecting self‐employment in European OECD countries. It uncovers heterogeneous policy impacts for different forms of self‐employment and considers how the share of self‐employment correlates with changes in policies along dimensions including sex, age and skills. Minimum wages and employment protection legislation appear to be robustly associated with changes in the long‐term share of own‐account self‐employment, whereas the share of self‐employment with employees appears to coincide with changes in the tax wedge and unemployment benefits. Deindustrialization is found to be positively correlated with self‐employment, which exhibits some cyclical properties.
Impacto de las políticas fiscales y laborales en el trabajo autónomo. Nueva evidencia sobre Europa
Authors: ÉGERT Balázs , MOUROUGANE Annabelle
Published: May 2024

Se analizan las políticas fiscales y laborales que afectan al trabajo autónomo en los países europeos de la OCDE, mediante regresiones de panel entre series no estacionarias del periodo 1995‐2022. El impacto es heterogéneo según las formas de trabajo autónomo y se examina su correlación con las políticas en las dimensiones de género, edad y calificación profesional. La variación a largo plazo de la proporción de trabajo autónomo sin empleados muestra una robusta correlación con el salario mínimo y la legislación de protección del empleo; si hay empleados, la proporción varía con la cuña fiscal y las prestaciones por desempleo. La desindustrialización se correlaciona positivamente con el trabajo autónomo, que presenta algunas características procíclicas.
Laser‐induced self‐propagating synthesis and electromagnetic wave absorption properties of MoAlB powders
Authors: Li Tao , Xie Houbo , Yang Guodong , Wu Jinbo , Li Yage , Li Faliang , Zhang Haijun
Published: May 2024

MoAlB powders with a purity of 96 wt.% were successfully fabricated by a laser‐induced self‐propagating method using molybdenum boride (MoB) and aluminum powders as starting materials under the conditions of an n(MoB): n(Al) ratio of 1.0:1.4 and the laser linear energy density (El) of 0.9 J/mm, and the effect of raw material composition and El on the phase composition and microstructure of the resultant MoAlB powders were investigated. The minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of the as‐prepared MoAlB absorber with a thickness of 5.0 mm were only determined as −12.5 dB (at 16.9 GHz) and 0.9 GHz (16.4–17.3 GHz) in the frequency of 1–18 GHz, respectively. Nevertheless, the RLmin and EAB of as‐prepared MoAlB powders oxidized after 3 h at 773 K increased to −18.59 dB (at 15.82 GHz) and 2.13 GHz (15.22–17.35 GHz), respectively, demonstrating that the as‐prepared MoAlB powders are potential candidates for high‐temperature microwave absorption applications. This study proposes a new efficient strategy for the preparation of boron‐based ternary compounds for high‐temperature electromagnetic wave absorption application.
Structure evolution and microwave dielectric characteristics of Hf1−xSnxO2 ceramics
Authors: Ding Yi Han , Huang Jun Chao , Li Lei , Chen Xiang Ming
Published: May 2024

High Q (Hf1−xSnx)O2 ceramics were prepared via a standard solid‐state reaction route, and the microwave dielectric characteristics were investigated systematically together with the structure evolution. With increasing x, the structure changed from HfO2 (monoclinic in space group P21/c, x = 0 and 0.03) to Hf0.77Sn0.23O2 (orthorhombic in space group Pbcn, x = 0.23), while the two‐phase structure: HfO2 major phase and Hf0.77Sn0.23O2 secondary phase, was determined for x = 0.05–0.21, and Hf0.77Sn0.23O2 major phase combined with SnO2 tetragonal secondary phase in space group P42/mnm was confirmed for x = 0.30–0.40. The Qf value was significantly increased from 24,500 to 167,650 GHz by Sn‐substitution, and the best combination of microwave dielectric characteristics was obtained in Hf0.77Sn0.23O2 ceramics:  εr = 17.2, Qf = 167 650 GHz at 9.6 GHz and 230 710 GHz at 26.1 GHz, and τf = −52.6 ppm/°C. The dielectric loss was deeply linked with the structure stability and lattice‐distortion. Also, the phase composition, the bond strength, as well as the degree of covalency, had a tight connection with dielectric loss. The present ceramics were expected to be the promising candidates as low‐εr microwave dielectric ceramics.
The Macroeconomic Expectations of U.S. Managers
Authors: McCLURE ETHAN M.L. , YAREMKO VITALIIA , COIBION OLIVIER , GORODNICHENKO YURIY
Published: May 2024

Using responses obtained through the Nielsen Homescan panel survey, we explore the differences between managers’ and nonmanagers’ expectations and perceptions of inflation and unemployment. By and large, managers and nonmanagers exhibit similar average inflation and unemployment expectations as well as similar levels of disagreement and sensitivity to information provided in a randomized control trial. Responses to hypothetical questions suggest that inflation expectations of managers frequently affect their economic decisions. Finally, the inflation expectations of managers deviate systematically from the predictions of “anchored” expectations.