bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating the Differential Impacts of Equivalent Gating-Charge Mutations in Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels
Authors: Elhanafy Eslam , Akbari Ahangar Amin , Roth Rebecca , Gamal El-Din Tamer M. , Bankston John R , Li Jing
Published: September 2024

Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels are pivotal for cellular signaling and mutations in Navchannels can lead to excitability disorders in cardiac, muscular, and neural tissues. A major cluster of pathological mutations localizes in the voltage-sensing domains (VSDs), resulting in either gain-of-function (GoF), loss-of-function (LoF) effects, or both. However, the mechanism behind this functional divergence of mutations at equivalent positions remains elusive. Through hotspot analysis, we identified three gating charges (R1, R2, and R3) as major mutational hotspots in VSDs. The same amino-acid substitutions at equivalent gating-charge positions in VSDIand VSDIIof the cardiac sodium channel Nav1.5 show differential gating-property impacts in electrophysiology measurements. We conducted 120 µs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on wild-type and six mutants to elucidate the structural basis of their differential impacts. Our μs-scale MD simulations with applied external electric fields captured VSD state transitions and revealed the differential structural dynamics between equivalent R-to-Q mutants. Notably, we observed transient leaky conformations in some mutants during structural transitions, offering a detailed structural explanation for gating-pore currents. Our salt-bridge network analysis uncovered VSD-specific and state-dependent interactions among gating charges, countercharges, and lipids. This detailed analysis elucidated how mutations disrupt critical electrostatic interactions, thereby altering VSD permeability and modulating gating properties. By demonstrating the crucial importance of considering the specific structural context of each mutation, our study represents a significant leap forward in understanding structure- function relationships in Navchannels. Our work establishes a robust framework for future investigations into the molecular basis of ion channel-related disorders.
CRISPR-CLEAR: Nucleotide-Resolution Mapping of Regulatory Elements via Allelic Readout of Tiled Base Editing
Authors: Becerra Basheer , Wittibschlager Sandra , Patel Zain M. , Kutschat Ana P. , Delano Justin , Che Eric , Karjalainen Anzhelika , Wu Ting , Starrs Marlena , Jankowiak Martin , Bauer Daniel E. , Seruggia Davide , Pinello Luca
Published: September 2024

CRISPR tiling screens have advanced the identification and characterization of regulatory sequences but are limited by low resolution arising from the indirect readout of editing via guide RNA sequencing. This study introducesCRISPR-CLEAR, an end-to-end experimental assay and computational pipeline, which leverages targeted sequencing of CRISPR-introduced alleles at the endogenous target locus following dense base-editing mutagenesis. This approach enables the dissection of regulatory elements at nucleotide resolution, facilitating a direct assessment of genotype-phenotype effects.
A secondary β-hydroxybutyrate metabolic pathway linked to energy balance
Authors: Moya-Garzon Maria Dolores , Wang Mengjie , Li Veronica L. , Lyu Xuchao , Wei Wei , Tung Alan Sheng-Hwa , Raun Steffen H. , Zhao Meng , Coassolo Laetitia , Islam Hashim , Oliveira Barbara , Dai Yuqin , Spaas Jan , Delgado-Gonzalez Antonio , Donoso Kenyi , Alvarez-Buylla Aurora , Franco-Montalban Francisco , Letian Anudari , Ward Catherine , Liu Lichao , Svensson Katrin J. , Goldberg Emily L. , Gardner Christopher D. , Little Jonathan P. , Banik Steven M. , Xu Yong , Long Jonathan Z.
Published: September 2024

β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is an abundant ketone body. To date, all known pathways of BHB metabolism involve interconversion of BHB and primary energy intermediates. Here we show that CNDP2 controls a previously undescribed secondary BHB metabolic pathway via enzymatic conjugation of BHB and free amino acids. This BHB-ylation reaction produces a family of endogenous ketone metabolites, the BHB-amino acids. Genetic ablation of CNDP2 in mice eliminates tissue amino acid BHB-ylation activity and reduces BHB-amino acid levels. Administration of BHB-Phe, the most abundant BHB-amino acid, to obese mice activates neural populations in the hypothalamus and brainstem and suppresses feeding and body weight. Conversely, CNDP2-KO mice exhibit increased food intake and body weight upon ketosis stimuli. CNDP2-dependent amino acid BHB-ylation and BHB-amino acid metabolites are also conserved in humans. Therefore, the metabolic pathways of BHB extend beyond primary metabolism and include secondary ketone metabolites linked to energy balance.
CRISPRoff epigenetic editing for programmable gene silencing in human cells without DNA breaks
Authors: Pattali Rithu K. , Ornelas Izaiah J. , Nguyen Carolyn D. , Xu Da , Divekar Nikita S. , Nuñez James K.
Published: September 2024

The advent of CRISPR-based technologies has enabled the rapid advancement of programmable gene manipulation in cells, tissues, and whole organisms. An emerging platform for targeted gene perturbation is epigenetic editing, the direct editing of chemical modifications on DNA and histones that ultimately results in repression or activation of the targeted gene. In contrast to CRISPR nucleases, epigenetic editors modulate gene expression without inducing DNA breaks or altering the genomic sequence of host cells. Recently, we developed the CRISPRoff epigenetic editing technology that simultaneously establishes DNA methylation and repressive histone modifications at targeted gene promoters. Transient expression of CRISPRoff and the accompanying single guide RNAs in mammalian cells results in transcriptional repression of targeted genes that is memorized heritably by cells through cell division and differentiation. Here, we describe our protocol for the delivery of CRISPRoff through plasmid DNA transfection, as well as the delivery of CRISPRoff mRNA, into transformed human cell lines and primary immune cells. We also provide guidance on evaluating target gene silencing and highlight key considerations when utilizing CRISPRoff for gene perturbations. Our protocols are broadly applicable to other CRISPR-based epigenetic editing technologies, as programmable genome manipulation tools continue to evolve rapidly.
Addressing Inconsistency in Functional Neuroimaging: A Replicable Data-Driven Multi-Scale Functional Atlas for Canonical Brain Networks
Authors: Jensen Kyle M. , Turner Jessica A. , Uddin Lucina Q. , Calhoun Vince D. , Iraji Armin
Published: September 2024

The advent of multiple neuroimaging methodologies has greatly aided in the conceptualization of large-scale functional brain networks in the field of cognitive neuroscience. However, there is inconsistency across studies in both nomenclature and the functional entities being described. There is a need for a unifying framework that standardizes terminology across studies while also bringing analyses and results into the same reference space. Here we present a whole-brain atlas of canonical functional brain networks derived from more than 100,000 resting-state fMRI datasets. These data-driven functional networks are highly replicable across datasets and capture information from multiple spatial scales. We have organized, labeled, and described the networks with terms familiar to the fields of cognitive and affective neuroscience in order to optimize their utility in future neuroimaging analyses and enhance the accessibility of new findings. The benefits of this atlas are not limited to future template-based or reference-guided analyses, but also extend to other data-driven neuroimaging approaches across modalities, such as those using blind independent component analysis (ICA). Future studies utilizing this atlas will contribute to greater harmonization and standardization in functional neuroimaging research.
Neurite Density and Free Water in the Gray and White Matter of Early Psychosis Patients
Authors: Van Dyken Peter C , Khan Ali R , Palaniyappan Lena
Published: September 2024

Diffusion weighted imaging has been frequently used to characterize the white matter in patients with schizophrenia, but the most commonly used model, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), is not specific to the histological nature of microstructural changes. This is particularly true in the more complex grey matter tissue. Furthermore, DTI changes have not been consistently reported in early schizophrenia populations, but this does not exclude more subtle changes that may not affect the model fit. Recently developed biophysical models of diffusion, such as the neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) model, may overcome these issues by quantifying specific tissue subcompartments, capturing diffusion profiles characteristic of intra-neurite, extra-neurite, and free water space. We applied the NODDI model to early schizophrenia patients (n=54) and healthy controls (n=51) from the Human Connectome Project - Early Psychosis dataset, investigating both the grey and white matter. We observed a diffuse, increased free water fraction throughout the grey matter, especially in the left insula, though there were not notable changes in the white matter. The spatial variation in the grey matter free water was not fully explained by the partial volume effects from the cerebrospinal fluid, indicating a role for tissue edema. The role of vasogenic processes in early stages of psychosis that may precede white matter anomalies documented in later disease stages warrant further investigation.
In cell NMR reveals cells selectively amplify and structurally remodel amyloid fibrils
Authors: Ansari Shoyab , Lagasca Dominique , Dumarieh Rania , Xiao Yiling , Krishna Sakshi , Li Yang , Frederick Kendra K.
Published: September 2024

Amyloid forms of α-synuclein adopt different conformations depending on environmental conditions. Advances in structural biology have accelerated fibril characterization. However, it remains unclear which conformations predominate in biological settings because current methods typically not only require isolating fibrils from their native environments, but they also do not provide insight about flexible regions. To address this, we characterized α-syn amyloid seeds and used sensitivity enhanced nuclear magnetic resonance to investigate the amyloid fibrils resulting from seeded amyloid propagation in different settings. We found that the amyloid fold and conformational preferences of flexible regions are faithfully propagatedin vitroand in cellular lysates. However, seeded propagation of amyloids inside cells led to the minority conformation in the seeding population becoming predominant and more ordered, and altered the conformational preferences of flexible regions. The examination of the entire ensemble of protein conformations in biological settings that is made possible with this approach may advance our understanding of protein misfolding disorders and facilitate structure-based drug design efforts.
Disrupted Development of the mPFC-Thalamic Circuit in the Mouse Shank3−/−model of Autism
Authors: Devienne Gabrielle , Vantomme Gil , Huguenard John R
Published: September 2024

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with heterogeneous causes, and are characterized by communication deficits, impaired social interactions, and repetitive behaviors. Despite numerous studies in mouse models focused on pathophysiological circuit mechanisms of ASD in mature animals, little is known regarding ASD onset and its evolution through development. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is crucial for higher-order cognitive functions and social behavior, thus key to understanding ASD pathology. To explore early developmental disruptions in the mPFC, we used theShank3knockout (Shank3−/−) mouse model. SHANK3 is crucial for glutamatergic synapse maturation, and the Shank3−/−mouse has been well-characterized for displaying ASD-related behavioral phenotypes. We investigated network, cellular, and synaptic changes within the mPFC and in its projections to the mediodorsal thalamus (MD) at two developmental stages, preweaning (P14) and adulthood (>P55). Our findings reveal early synaptic deficits at P14 both within the mPFC and in its projections to the MD accompanied by alterations in mPFC network activity and reduced excitability of excitatory neurons, overall suggesting hypofunction. Interestingly, behavioral deficits were already detectable by P11, preceding the observation of synaptic changes at P14. By adulthood, these early synaptic and cellular alterations progressed to global dysfunction, characterized by mPFC network hyperfunction and layer 5 pyramidal cell hyperexcitability, accompanied by augmented glutamatergic signaling to MD with enhanced action potential production. These results suggest that early synaptic changes may precede and interact with behavioral deficits, potentially leading to compensatory mechanisms that contribute to more pronounced mPFC dysfunction later in development. This study highlights the complex dynamic progression of mPFC deficits in ASD and emphasizes the potential impact of targeting early synaptic alterations to mitigate later behavioral and cognitive deficits.
Public health actions in response to pathogen detection in sewage: a scoping review protocol
Authors: de Jong Maarten , de Korne-Elenbaas Jolinda , Fanoy Ewout , Medema Gertjan , de Graaf Miranda , Baidjoe Amrish Y. , Prins Maria , Schim van der Loeff Maarten F. , Daams Joost , de Roda Husman Ana Maria , Heijne Janneke C.M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Infectious disease surveillance and outbreak investigations have significantly benefited from sewage monitoring as an indicator for pathogen circulation in human populations. The use of sewage surveillance accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic with the quantification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in sewage providing predictions of SARS-CoV-2 infections and hospital admissions. A comprehensive overview how sewage monitoring can further inform local and regional public health actions proactively is needed to optimize its future use. By conducting a scoping review, we aim to provide an overview of reported public health actions as a response to sewage monitoring for pathogens.

Methods

This scoping review will include peer-reviewed published literature from the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science. Literature describing public health actions as a response to sewage monitoring in the field of human infectious diseases will be considered for inclusion. Literature not written in English, published prior to 1 January 2014, systematic reviews, editorials and letters to the editor will be excluded. Screening of literature against the inclusion criteria and the subsequent data extraction will be performed by two reviewers. The described public health actions, and corresponding sewage sampling methods and microbiological analytic tools and techniques that can be applied on sewage samples for detecting pathogens will also be extracted. The extracted data from included literature will be combined into a narrative synthesis.
Human Papillomavirus-Associated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Brian Y. , Hirayama Shun , Goss Deborah , Zhao Yan , Faden Daniel L.
Published: September 2024

Structured Abstract

Objective

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to affect head and neck sites beyond the oropharynx, including the nasopharynx. Unlike HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+OPSCC), HPV-associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (HPV+NPC) is not well characterized and the true prevalence in non-endemic regions is poorly described. Here, we sought to obtain a global point prevalence of HPV in NPC, stratified by geographic region.

Data Sources

EMBASE, OVID Medline, and Web of Science were systematically searched for available evidence on September 21, 2022 for articles published between January 1, 1990 and September 21, 2022.

Review Methods

We reviewed the literature for all studies examining NPC and HPV status in adult patients that provided a quantitative HPV prevalence. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Main outcome and measures included HPV+NPC prevalence estimates stratified by geographic region, along with other clinical and demographic features.

Results

Of the 1567 citations retrieved, 46 studies encompassing 6314 NPC patients were eligible for statistical analysis. The global prevalence of HPV+NPC was 0.18 (95% CI 0.14-0.23). When stratified by geographic region, prevalence was highest in North America (0.25, 95% CI 0.17-0.36), which is a non-endemic region for NPC and also has highest prevalence for HPV+OPSCC. Asia, an endemic area, had the lowest HPV prevalence estimate (0.13, 95% CI 0.08-0.22). HPV 16 (44%) and 18 (33%) were the predominant genotypes in HPV+NPC, dissimilar to HPV+OPSCC.

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta-analysis provides a global point prevalence of HPV+NPC stratified by geographic region and suggests that HPV is a significant etiological factor of NPC in North America.
Antibiotic De-escalation Patterns and Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients with Suspected Pneumonia as Informed by Bronchoalveolar Lavage Results
Authors: Zhu Mengou , Pickens Chiagozie I. , Markov Nikolay S. , Pawlowski Anna , Kang Mengjia , Rasmussen Luke V. , Walter James M. , Nadig Nandita R. , Singer Benjamin D. , Wunderink Richard G. , Gao Catherine A. ,   The NU SCRIPT Study Investigators
Published: September 2024

Background

Antibiotic stewardship in critically ill pneumonia patients is crucial yet challenging, partly due to the limited diagnostic yield of noninvasive infectious tests. In this study, we report an antibiotic prescription pattern informed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) results, where clinicians de-escalate antibiotics based on the combination of quantitative cultures and multiplex PCR rapid diagnostic tests.

Methods

We analyzed data from SCRIPT, a single-center prospective cohort study of mechanically ventilated patients who underwent a BAL for suspected pneumonia. We used the novel Narrow Antibiotic Therapy (NAT) score to quantify day-by-day antibiotic prescription pattern for each suspected pneumonia episode etiology (bacterial, viral, mixed bacterial/viral, microbiology-negative, and non-pneumonia control). We also analyzed and compared clinical outcomes for each pneumonia etiology, including unfavorable outcomes (a composite of in-hospital mortality, discharge to hospice, or requiring lung transplantation during hospitalization), duration of ICU stay, and duration of intubation. Clinical outcomes were compared with the Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results

We included 686 patients with 927 pneumonia episodes. NAT score analysis indicated that an antibiotic de-escalation pattern was evident in all pneumonia etiologies except resistant bacterial pneumonia. Microbiology-negative pneumonia was treated similarly to susceptible bacterial pneumonia in terms of antibiotic spectrum. Over a quarter of the time in viral pneumonia episodes, antibiotics were completely discontinued. Unfavorable outcomes were comparable across all pneumonia etiologies. Patients with viral and mixed bacterial/viral pneumonia had longer durations of ICU stay and intubation.

Conclusions

BAL quantitative cultures and multiplex PCR rapid diagnostic tests resulted in prompt antibiotic de-escalation in critically ill pneumonia patients. There was no evidence of increased incidence of unfavorable outcomes.

Key points

We found that bronchoalveolar lavage-based diagnostics is associated with antibiotic de-escalation, including to no antibiotics in more than a quarter of cases where only a virus is recovered.
Genetically Encoded FerriTag as a Specific Label for Cryo-Electron Tomography
Authors: Wang Chang , Iacovache Ioan , Zuber Benoît
Published: September 2024

Cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) is an important imaging technique that can provide 3D datasets of organelles and proteins at nanometer and sub-nanometer resolution. Recently, combining cryoET with subtomogram averaging has pushed the resolution to 3-4 Å. However, one main challenge for cryoET is locating target proteins in live cells. Conventional methods such as fluorescent protein tagging and immunogold labeling are not entirely suitable to label small structures in live cells with molecular resolution in vitrified samples. If large proteins, which can be visually identified in cryoET, are directly linked to the target protein, the large tag may alter the target protein structure, localization and function. To address this challenge, we used the rapamycin-induced oligomer formation system, which involves two tags (FKBP and FRB) that can bind together within rapamycin. In our system, the FKBP tag is linked to target protein and the FRB tag is linked to a large protein to create a marker. We chose ferritin as the marker protein because it is a large complex (10–12 nm) and can bind iron to create strong contrast in cryoET. After adding rapamycin to the cell medium, the iron-loaded ferritin accurately indicates the location of the target protein. Recently, in-situ cryoET with subtomogram averaging has been rapidly developing. However, it is still challenging to locate target proteins in live cells, and this method provides a much-needed solution.
LLPS REDIFINE allows the biophysical characterization of multicomponent condensates without tags or labels
Authors: Novakovic Mihajlo , Han Nina , Kathe Nina C. , Ni Yinan , Emmanouilidis Leonidas , Allain Frédéric H.-T.
Published: September 2024

Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) phenomenon plays a vital role in multiple cell biology processes, providing a mechanism to concentrate biomolecules and promote cellular reactions locally. Despite its significance in biology, there is a lack of conventional techniques suitable for studying biphasic samples in their biologically relevant form. Here, we present a label-free and non-invasive approach to characterize protein, RNA and water in biomolecular condensates termed LLPS REstricted DIFusion of INvisible speciEs (REDIFINE). Relying on diffusion NMR measurements, REDIFINE exploits the exchange dynamics between the condensed and dispersed phases to allow the determination of not only diffusion constants in both phases but also the fractions of the species, the average radius of the condensed droplets and the exchange rate between the phases. We can also access the concentration of proteins in both phases. Observing proteins, RNAs, water, and even small molecules, REDIFINE analysis allows a rapid biophysical characterization of multicomponent condensates which is important to understand their functional roles. In comparing multiple systems, REDIFINE reveals that folded RNA-binding proteins form smaller and more dynamic droplets compared to the disordered ones. In addition, REDIFINE proved to be valuable beyond LLPS for the determination of binding constants in soluble protein-RNA without the need for titration.
Structural insights into distinct mechanisms of RNA polymerase II and III recruitment to snRNA promoters
Authors: Shah Syed Zawar , Perry Thomas N. , Graziadei Andrea , Cecatiello Valentina , Kaliyappan Thangavelu , Misiaszek Agata D. , Müller Christoph W. , Ramsay Ewan P. , Vannini Alessandro
Published: September 2024

RNA polymerase III (Pol III) is specialized in the transcription of short, essential RNAs, including the U6 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). At U6 snRNA genes, Pol III is recruited by the snRNA Activating Protein Complex (SNAPc) forming, together with a Brf2-containing TFIIIB complex, a transcriptionally competent pre-initiation complex (PIC). Additionally, SNAPc is responsible for the recruitment of Pol II at the remaining snRNAs genes (U1, 2, 4 and 5), representing a unique example of a multi subunit transcription factor shared among different RNA Polymerases. The mechanism of SNAPc cross-polymerase engagement and the role of the SNAPC2 and SNAPC5 subunits in transcription remain poorly defined. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of the full-length SNAPc-containing Pol III PIC assembled on the U6 snRNA promoter in the open and melting states at 3.2-4.2Å resolution. Comparative structural analysis revealed unexpected differences with the yeast PIC and revealed the molecular basis of selective and structurally distinct SNAPc engagement within Pol III and Pol II PICs. Harnessing crosslinking mass spectrometry, we also localize the SNAPC2 and SNAPC5 subunits in proximity to the bound promoter DNA, expanding upon existing descriptions of snRNA Pol III PIC structure.
Spin effect induced momentum spiral and asymmetry degree in pair production
Authors: Hu Li-Na , Fan Hong-Hao , Amat Orkash , Tang Suo , Xie Bai-Song
Published: September 2024

Spin effect on the pair production under circularly polarized fields is investigated. Significantly different from what momentum spirals caused by two counterrotating fields with a time delay, we find for the first time that the spirals can also be induced due to the particle spin effect even if in a single field. We further examine the bichromatic combinational fields. The inhomogeneous spiral structures can be observed in the momentum spectrum; in particular, the spiral not only does exist in two cases of spin, but also is about 2 orders of magnitude amplified compared with that in the single field. Meanwhile, the spin asymmetry degree on the momentum distributions is investigated, and it was found that the effect of spin flip exists with an increased time delay between two fields. The spin asymmetry degree on the number density can reach to 98% in certain conditions. These results indicate that the signatures of created particles, especially the spiral structures, are strongly associated with information pertaining to the laser field as well as the created particle spin, which can deepen the understanding of vacuum pair production.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exploring the relationship between small and medium-sized enterprises innovation and organizational performance: a prospective study on the industrial sector in Ecuador
Authors: Novillo-Villegas Sylvia , Anzules-Falcones Wendy , Martin-Castilla Juan Ignacio
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between the innovation capacity and performance of manufacturing firms in the Ecuadorian pharmaceutical and chemical sectors using strategic foresight analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

From an extensive literature review, the fundamental variables related to manufacturing firms’ innovation for better performance were identified. Six hypotheses and actions were proposed related to financing, economic resources, capacities and research and development. Several scenarios were tested through foresight methodology to determine the more appropriate to be implemented by manufacturing firms over the next five years.

Findings

Scenario 01, where all the hypotheses resulted positive, has a 15.3% probability of occurrence. The results offer a relevant understanding of the behavior of the variables proposed as strategic actions for the sector.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, foresight methodology is applied for the first time to analyze the manufacturing sector in Ecuador. The authors propose a plan of action from the strategic scenario identified in this study, supporting the development of the industrial sectors under study.
Gender differences in the effects of nostalgia on conspicuous consumption and impulsive buying
Authors: Cho Heetae , Chiu Weisheng , Kang Hyoung-Kil , Lee Hyun-Woo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The current study investigated the relationship between nostalgia, conspicuous consumption, and impulse buying and compared gender differences in the effects of nostalgia on conspicuous consumption and impulse buying.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 307 college students in western Singapore were recruited. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were conducted to assess the psychometric properties of the scales and estimate model path coefficients. A multi-group analysis was conducted to test if the path coefficients in the research model varied across genders.

Findings

This study found that nostalgia had a positive influence on consumers’ conspicuous consumption, which in turn had a positive impact on their impulse buying of sport products. The results of the multi-group analysis also revealed significant differences across gender groups in that the impacts of nostalgia on conspicuous consumption and impulse buying were stronger for male consumers.

Originality/value

This study forges new ground by investigating the intricate dynamics among nostalgia, conspicuous consumption, and impulse buying in the context of sport. By delving into the relationships between them and exploring gender disparities in their effects, this study enhances our understanding of the pivotal role nostalgia plays in shaping consumer behavior in sport. In addition, the identification of gender-specific patterns underscores the significance of tailored marketing approaches for effectively engaging both male and female consumers. Overall, this study presents fresh perspectives that can inform the development of targeted marketing strategies for sport marketers and retailers aiming to optimize their offerings and promotional endeavors.
The impact of sex in the effectiveness of functional remediation in bipolar disorder
Authors: Serra‐Navarro Maria , Clougher Derek , Solé Brisa , Sánchez‐Moreno Jose , González‐Pinto Ana , Jiménez Esther , Amann Benedikt L. , Balanzá‐Martínez Vicent , Tabarés‐Seisdedos Rafael , Arango Celso , Accardo Vivian , García‐Portilla María Paz , Ibáñez Ángela , Crespo José Manuel , Ayuso‐Mateos José Luis , Amoretti Silvia , Torrent Carla , Martínez‐Aran Anabel , Vieta Eduard ,   CIBERSAM Functional Remediation Group
Published: September 2024

Background

Functional recovery remains a core clinical objective for patients with bipolar disorder (BD). Sociodemographic, clinical, and neurocognitive variables are associated with long‐term functional impairment, yet the impact of sex differences is unclear. Functional remediation (FR) is a validated intervention aimed at achieving functional recovery in BD. The present study assessed the effect of sex differences of FR on psychosocial functioning at post‐treatment (6‐months) and 12‐month follow‐up (FUP). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the role of sex as a factor in the efficacy of FR.

Methods

157 participants with BD were randomly assigned to either FR (N = 77) or treatment as usual group (80). Clinical, sociodemographic, neuropsychological, and functional data were obtained using a comprehensive assessment battery. Sex differences were explored via a general linear model (GLM) for repeated measures to compare the effect of sex on the intervention over time (6 months and FUP).

Results

Results demonstrated that FR benefits both sexes, males (p = 0.001; d’ = 0.88) and females (p = 0.04; d’ = 0.57), at 6 months suggesting a generalized functional improvement. Conversely, at 12‐month FUP sex differences were observed only in males (p = 0.005; d’ = 0.68).

Conclusions

FR is a beneficial intervention for males and females after treatment, suggesting that there are no relevant distinct needs. Females may benefit from ongoing psychosocial functioning booster sessions after the intervention to maintain original improvements. Future research exploring sex differences could help to identify strategies to offer personalized FR intervention approaches in individuals with BD.
Medications for opioid use disorder: Predictors of early discontinuation and reduction of overdose risk in US military veterans by medication type
Authors: Hayes Corey J. , Raciborski Rebecca A. , Nowak Matthew , Acharya Mahip , Nunes Edward V. , Winhusen T. John
Published: September 2024

Aim

This study: (1) estimated the effect of early discontinuation of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) on overdose probability and (2) measured the relationship between patient characteristics and early discontinuation probability for each MOUD type.

Design, setting and participants

This was a retrospective cohort using electronic health record data from the US Veterans Healthcare Administration. Participants were veterans initiating MOUD with buprenorphine (BUP), methadone (MET) or extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) from fiscal years 2012–19. A total of 39 284 veterans met eligibility with 22 721 (57.8%) initiating BUP, 12 652 (32.2%) initiating MET and 3911 (10.0%) initiating XR‐NTX.

Measurements

Measurements (1) determined whether the veteran experienced an overdose in the 365 days after MOUD initiation (primary) and (2) early discontinuation of MOUD, defined as discontinuation before 180 days (secondary). We assumed that unobserved patient characteristics would jointly influence the probability of discontinuation and overdose. and estimated the joint distribution with a bivariate probit model.

Findings

We found that 9.0% of BUP initiators who experienced an overdose above the predicted 3.9% had no veteran‐discontinued BUP early; findings for XR‐NTX were similar, with 12.2% of initiators overdosing above the predicted 4.5%, but this was statistically inconclusive. We found no relationship between early discontinuation and overdose for MET initiators, probably due to the high risk of both events. The patient characteristics included in our post‐estimation exploratory analysis of early discontinuation varied by MOUD type, with between 14 (XR‐NTX) and 25 (BUP) tested. The only characteristics with at least one level showing a statistically significant change in probability of early discontinuation for all three MOUD types were geography and prior‐year exposure to psychotherapy, although direction and magnitude varied.

Conclusion

Early discontinuation of buprenorphine, and probably extended‐release naltrexone, appears to be associated with a greater probability of experiencing a fatal or non‐fatal overdose among US veterans receiving medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD); methadone does not show the same association. There is no consistent set of characteristics among early discontinuers by MOUD type.
“Strange” affinities
Authors: Rizvi Muneeza
Published: September 2024

British Muslim volunteers in Syria have been variously cast as humanitarians, activists, and—under the suspicious gaze of the war on terror—disguised militants. Yet many volunteers frame their efforts as attempts at iṣlāḥ (reform, repair, rectification). What is the ethicopolitical life of iṣlāḥ, a multivalent concept in the Islamic tradition, in a landscape marked by war and international relief efforts? Considered ethnographically, iṣlāḥ organizes heterogeneous practices, including charitable giving, political defiance, and ethical contestation. It is thus irreducible to either (religious) charity or to its oft‐purported opposite, (political) solidarity. Further, it reveals the embedded secularity of such oppositions, which shapes the reasoning of both the British security state and social scientific commentary.
Integrated Reporting Impact on Core Organisational Practices: A Practice‐Based Perspective
Authors: Roszak Sabrina , Laguecir Aziza
Published: September 2024

This research explores how managers implement integrated reporting (IR) in their organisations and its impact on practices. We use 25 semi‐structured interviews with top and middle managers of early adopters' private companies to examine the conditions under which managers initially made sense of IR long before its institutionalisation. Conceptually drawing from practice theory, we show how top and middle managers make sense of (practical intelligibility) IR and how this influences core operational practices. The analysis shows that IR practices can be more or less totalitarian, revealing the importance of the institutional pressures and teleo‐affective structures held and promoted by the managers in charge. This research offers a counterpoint to studies that suggest that accounting has a limited impact when practised in a less totalitarian form. It also highlights the importance of affective aspects and the crucial role of managers in these aspects. Given the rapid changes in the regulatory context, understanding how managers make sense of integrated tools is of utmost importance.
Troubleshooting the migration of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided pancreatic duct drainage stent to avoid repuncture
Authors: Hama Kazuki , Tanaka Reina , Itoi Takao
Published: September 2024

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Endoscopic clipping combined with cyanoacrylate injection vs. transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of isolated gastric variceal bleeding: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Jing , Chen Zhaoyi , Kuai Yaxian , Zhang Fumin , Li Huixian , Kong Derun
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Although the incidence of isolated gastric varices type 1 (IGV1) bleeding is low, the condition is highly dangerous and associated with high mortality, making its treatment challenging. We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of endoscopic clipping combined with cyanoacrylate injection (EC‐CYA) vs. transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in treating IGV1.

Methods

In a single‐center, randomized controlled trial, patients with IGV1 bleeding were randomly assigned to the EC‐CYA group or TIPS group. The primary end‐points were gastric variceal rebleeding rates and technical success. Secondary end‐points included cumulative nonbleeding rates, mortality, and complications.

Results

A total of 156 patients between January 2019 and April 2023 were selected and randomly assigned to the EC‐CYA group (n = 76) and TIPS group (n = 80). The technical success rate was 100% for both groups. The rebleeding rates were 14.5% in the EC‐CYA group and 8.8% in the TIPS group, showing no significant difference (P = 0.263). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the cumulative nonbleeding rates at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months for the two groups lacked statistical significance (P = 0.344). Similarly, cumulative survival rates at 12, 24, and 36 months for the two groups were not statistically significant (P = 0.916). The bleeding rates from other causes were 13.2% and 6.3% for the respective groups, showing no significant difference (P = 0.144). No instances of ectopic embolism were observed in either group. The incidence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in the TIPS group was statistically higher than that in the EC‐CYA group (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Both groups are effective in controlling IGV1 bleeding. Notably, EC‐CYA did not result in ectopic embolism, and the incidence of HE was lower than that observed with TIPS.
Front Cover
Authors: Escobar Vasco Maria Adelaida , Fantaye Samuel H. , Raghunathan Sapna , Solis‐Herrera Carolina
Published: September 2024

The cover image is based on the Article The potential role of finerenone in patients with type 1 diabetes and chronic kidney disease by Maria Adelaida Escobar Vasco MD et al., https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.15773.

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A rare case of inferior sinus venosus atrial septal defect and concomitant hypoplasia of the posterior mitral valve leaflet
Authors: Bertolín‐Boronat Carlos , de la Espriella Rafael , Monmeneu Jose Vicente , López‐Lereu María Pilar , Santas Enrique , Merenciano‐González Héctor , Sanchis Juan , Bodí Vicente , Marcos‐Garcés Víctor
Published: September 2024

Inferior sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is the rarest form of the atrial septal defect (ASD) and can sometimes go unnoticed. Although this defect can be associated with other congenital anomalies, its association with hypoplasia of the posterior mitral leaflet is extremely rare. In this case, we present a woman with a history of surgery for an ostium secundum ASD who exhibited persistent right heart chamber dilation. Echocardiography revealed hypoplasia of the posterior mitral leaflet, and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging confirmed the presence of a previously undetected inferior sinus venosus ASD.
Corporate basic research and technological capabilities: Evidence from China
Authors: Ju Xiaosheng , Jiang Shengjun , Hu Yuxuan
Published: September 2024

We empirically examine the effects of basic research on the technological capabilities of Chinese A‐share listed manufacturing firms. Using manually collected corporate publication data to measure basic research activities, our findings reveal that firms with higher quantities and quality of basic research tend to engage in innovation activities within their existing knowledge base. These firms explore a broader range of technological fields and demonstrate enhanced capabilities in utilizing and creating knowledge. They also exhibit higher levels of both quantity and quality in their innovation output, which remains stable over time. Moreover, firms with basic research maintain their technological advancement even after facing external sanctions from the U.S. Heterogeneous analysis reveals that the impacts of basic research are more pronounced in mature and larger firms. This study highlights the significance of basic research for corporate technological catch‐up efforts in transitioning middle‐income countries during the later stages of catch‐up.
Development of a qPCR Assay for the Detection and Quantification of the Fungal Pathogen Calonectria canadiana on Conifers
Authors: Tanguay Philippe , Benoit Nathan , Potvin Amélie , Bernier Louis
Published: September 2024

A real‐time PCR TaqMan assay was developed for the detection of Calonectria canadiana, a fungal pathogen responsible for damping off, root rot and seedling blight in conifer forest nurseries in central and eastern North America. While highly significant in Quebec Forest nurseries, coniferous seedling mortality decreased significantly when nurseries transitioned from bare root to container seedling production. However, over the past few years, this pathogen has re‐emerged as a threat and millions of container white spruce seedlings were culled in two nurseries in eastern Quebec. A sensitive detection and quantification assay for C. canadiana was essential to investigate the biological and environmental factors driving this new epidemic. We designed primers and a TaqMan probe targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of C. canadiana. The resulting Ccan TaqMan assay successfully differentiated C. canadiana from other soil‐borne pathogens of the Nectriaceae encountered in Quebec Forest nurseries. The limit of detection of the assay was established at eight copies of C. canadiana ITS. The Ccan TaqMan assay quickly identified the presence of the pathogen in both symptomatic and asymptomatic white spruce (Picea glauca) seedlings. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the pathogen was more easily detected when DNA was extracted from necrotic needles at the base of the stem rather than from necrotic roots. This molecular tool will greatly aid in understanding the biology and epidemiology of C. canadiana.
Like a moth to a flame: Do stock market bubbles exacerbate credit risks of peer‐to‐peer lending?
Authors: Liu Xin , Ni Xiaoran , Qiu Zhigang , Xiang Wang , Zhang Kailun
Published: September 2024

We establish a causal link between stock market bubbles and credit risks from peer‐to‐peer lending. Employing a fuzzy regression discontinuity design based on retail investors' disproportional increase in stock market participation when the Shanghai Stock Exchange composite index exceeds 3500, we find that both the default rate and the degree of delinquency rise disproportionately for loans borrowed above the 3500 threshold. This effect is more pronounced among loans of lower quality and when borrowers are more overconfident and less risk averse. Overall, our results suggest that FinTech developments could amplify financial risks and induce contagion across markets.
Label distribution learning for compound facial expression recognition in‐the‐wild: A comparative study
Authors: Khelifa Afifa , Ghazouani Haythem , Barhoumi Walid
Published: September 2024

Human emotional states encompass both basic and compound facial expressions. However, current works primarily focus on basic expressions, consequently neglecting the broad spectrum of human emotions encountered in practical scenarios. Compound facial expressions involve the simultaneous manifestation of multiple emotions on an individual's face. This phenomenon reflects the complexity and richness of human states, where facial features dynamically convey a combination of feelings. This study embarks on a pioneering exploration of Compound Facial Expression Recognition (CFER), with a distinctive emphasis on leveraging the Label Distribution Learning (LDL) paradigm. This strategic application of LDL aims to address the ambiguity and complexity inherent in compound expressions, marking a significant departure from the dominant Single Label Learning (SLL) and Multi‐Label Learning (MLL) paradigms. Within this framework, we rigorously investigate the potential of LDL for a critical challenge in Facial Expression Recognition (FER): recognizing compound facial expressions in uncontrolled environments. We utilize the recently introduced RAF‐CE dataset, meticulously designed for compound expression assessment. By conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis pitting LDL against conventional SLL and MLL approaches on RAF‐CE, we aim to definitively establish LDL's superiority in handling this complex task. Furthermore, we assess the generalizability of LDL models trained on RAF‐CE by evaluating their performance on the EmotioNet and RAF‐DB Compound datasets. This demonstrates their effectiveness without domain adaptation. To solidify these findings, we conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of 12 cutting‐edge LDL algorithms on RAF‐CE, S‐BU3DFE, and S‐JAFFE datasets, providing valuable insights into the most effective LDL techniques for FER in‐the‐wild.
Species dynamics in forage seed mixtures exposed to different lengths of growing season
Authors: Sturite Ievina , Lunnan Tor , Østrem Liv
Published: September 2024

Six seed mixtures differing in number of species and their proportion of timothy (Phleum pratense L.) were tested during three/four production (ley) years in replicated field experiments at three climatically different sites in Norway; one a mountainous inland site at 61° N (Løken) and two in coastal environments, at 61° N (Fureneset) and 65° N (Tjøtta). There were significant differences in forage accumulation (FA) and digestible forage accumulation (DFA) between the three sites. There was a significant FA decline from the third to the fourth ley year for mixtures containing timothy, but not for mixtures without timothy. Estimated interannual FA‐ stability was higher for timothy‐based seed mixtures than for mixtures without timothy at the inland site, but FA‐stability was lower at the coastal sites. In the third‐year herbage of timothy‐based mixtures at the inland site consisted almost solely of timothy, whereas at the coastal sites meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis Huds.) and especially tall fescue (F. arundinacea Schreb.) dominated. In seed mixtures without timothy, cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) suppressed other species at the inland site, whereas at the coastal sites, tall fescue and ryegrasses (Lolium spp.) were the dominant species in the third‐year herbage. Length of growing season and site‐specific growing conditions were important drivers for the observed species changes. Timothy can thus be recommended for ley establishment at sites where the growing season is short (<4 months) and plant growth is intensive, but under conditions with a longer growing season it needs to be sown in mixtures with grass species that surpass the regrowth capacity of timothy.