bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the literature on financial satisfaction: a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Kumar Rajesh , Jain Jinesh , Ahuja Prerna
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The research on financial satisfaction has risen substantially in recent years due to its importance in personal financial planning and individuals’ subjective well-being. Hence, this study aims to map the existing literature on financial satisfaction to present the current state of knowledge and identify substantial gaps.

Design/methodology/approach

The present review uses 109 articles published between 1985 and March 2024 and retrieved from the Scopus database. The study deploys a systematic literature review (SLR), bibliometric analysis and content analysis to attain the objectives. Through bibliometric analysis, the present study highlights the most influential authors, journals, countries and affiliations, augmenting the literature on financial satisfaction. Moreover, the study presents the detailed antecedents and consequences of financial satisfaction through content analysis.

Findings

The study outlines that most studies in the financial satisfaction area revolve around its antecedents and consequences. The review details multiple antecedents affecting financial satisfaction, such as socioeconomic, psychological, social, personality, religious, financial literacy, financial behavior and technological factors. The prominent consequences of financial satisfaction include subjective well-being, life satisfaction, happiness, emotional and financial well-being, relationship quality, work engagement and sustainable growth.

Originality/value

The present research is an inaugural SLR that comprehensively maps the existing intellectual structure on financial satisfaction. In addition, it offers future research directions for further developments on the subject.
Why are trees hollow? Termites, microbes and tree internal stem damage in a tropical savanna
Authors: Yatsko Abbey R. , Wijas Baptiste , Calvert Jed , Cheesman Alexander W. , Cook Keith , Eggleton Paul , Gambold Indigo , Jones Caleb , Russell‐Smith Pedro , Zanne Amy E.
Published: December 2024

Wood plays a vital role in the terrestrial carbon cycle, both sequestering and subsequently releasing carbon to the atmosphere via decomposition. Decomposition has largely been studied in fallen and standing deadwood; much less is known about decomposition occurring inside live trees due to hollowing by wood‐feeding termites and microbial heart rot. Internal stem damage is difficult to measure, leaving many unresolved knowledge gaps. Little is known regarding the location and total amount of damage done by termites and microbes, as well as whether these decomposers act in concert or separately. Furthermore, tree species, wood density and stem size can influence fallen deadwood decomposition, but their role in living tree internal damage is largely unknown.

We destructively harvested 63 trees, finding internal damage in 32. We intensively sampled the internal stem damage in these 32 to investigate the relative contributions of microbes and termites in a tropical savanna in Queensland, Australia. We tested if damage changed at different heights in the tree, quantified tree‐level termite and microbial damage and examined if termite and microbial damage co‐occurred. We also tested the influence of tree species, wood specific gravity and size on tree‐level internal stem damage across four species.

Termite and microbial damage were present in 45% and 33% of all trees, respectively. On average, termite damage reduced total tree biomass by 3.3% (maximum 28%, SD = 4.7%) and microbial damage by 1.8% (maximum 26%, SD = 5.3%). The amount of damage from both decomposers decreased with increasing heights up the tree. Termite and microbial damage co‐occurrence was greater within trees than within individual cross section samples, suggesting local competitive exclusion or niche partitioning by decomposers. Tree species was a better predictor of damage than either wood specific gravity or tree size.

Half of the trees in our study had substantial internal stem damage, highlighting the considerable role that termites and microbes play in decomposing wood within living trees. Our findings unveil the previously concealed wood decomposition dynamics occurring inside trees, with implications for accurate carbon estimation across savanna ecosystems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Oxylipin Receptors and Their Role in Inter‐Partner Signalling in a Model Cnidarian‐Dinoflagellate Symbiosis
Authors: Gamba Andrea G. , Oakley Clinton A. , Ashley Immy A. , Grossman Arthur R. , Weis Virginia M. , Suggett David J. , Davy Simon K.
Published: December 2024

Oxylipin signalling is central in biology, mediating processes such as cellular homeostasis, inflammation and molecular signalling. It may also facilitate inter‐partner communication in the cnidarian‐dinoflagellate symbiosis, though this aspect remains understudied. In this study, four oxylipin receptors were characterised using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting in the sea anemone Exaiptasia diaphana (‘Aiptasia’): Prostaglandin E2 receptor 2 (EP2) and 4 (EP4), Transient Receptor Potential cation channel A1 (TRPA1) and Glutamate Receptor Ionotropic, Kainate 2 (GRIK2). Receptor abundance and localisation were compared between aposymbiotic anemones and symbiotic anemones hosting either native Breviolum minutum or non‐native Durusdinium trenchii. All receptors were localised to the putative symbiosome of freshly isolated symbionts, suggesting a role in host‐symbiont crosstalk. EP2, EP4 and TRPA1 abundance decreased in the gastrodermis of anemones hosting B. minutum, indicating potential downregulation of pathways mediated by these receptors. In contrast, GRIK2 abundance increased in anemones hosting D. trenchii in both the epidermis and gastrodermis; GRIK2 acts as a chemosensor of potential pathogens in other systems and could play a similar role here given D. trenchii's reputation as a sub‐optimal partner for Aiptasia. This study contributes to the understanding of oxylipin signalling in the cnidarian‐dinoflagellate symbiosis and supports further exploration of host‐symbiont molecular signalling.
Administrative burden as a constraint on freedom in the modern welfare state
Authors: Brown Jeremiah Thomas , Malbon Eleanor
Published: December 2024

The administrative burden literature has demonstrated a variety of ways in which administrative burdens can act as barriers to citizens accessing services to which they are entitled. This paper connects these insights to ideas from the Capabilities Approach to Human Development to articulate the ways that administrative burdens can be understood as constraints on freedom. Drawing from examples in the Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme application process, we discuss potential barriers to accessing social support services in the conditional welfare state. This analysis demonstrates the subtle mechanisms through which citizens can be excluded from accessing services to which they are entitled and the disconnection between being entitled to a service in principle and being free to access that service in practice. The paper demonstrates that by paying more attention to the filtering mechanisms in social policies, administrative burden can offer insight into what constrains freedom in the modern welfare state.

Points for practitioners

For many policy areas within the welfare state, there are a variety of challenges that can prevent citizens from obtaining access to rights which they are entitled to receive, with administrative burdens being a common type of barrier to completing administrative processes that relate to accessing rights.

Administrative burdens can act as constraints on freedom for people by preventing them from completing administrative processes which are necessary to complete in order to access supports to which they are entitled, and which would otherwise expand their freedom by increasing the range of meaningful choices which they would hold.

Practitioners should think about structural components of the wider system they engage with when working on or changing an application process (like the health system), since those components of the system may become overloaded when they become a requirement for a widely applied for service, and this can make those requirements harder for applicants to comply with.
Back to Business? Business‐Owners and Their Responses to COVID‐19 Policies in a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Nielsen Julie Hassing , Goenaga Agustín
Published: December 2024

While necessary to protect human lives, many of the measures implemented by governments to contain the COVID‐19 pandemic imposed significant costs on the population. Drawing on an original representative survey fielded during the first wave of COVID‐19 in April–June 2020 in Sweden and Denmark, we examine how members of different occupational groups evaluated their government's pandemic strategies. Despite sharing several institutional, cultural, and political features, Denmark adopted an extensive lockdown, while Sweden largely relied on individual responsibility. We find that Danish business‐owners, whose incomes were more vulnerable to the economic costs of a strict lockdown, expressed lower trust and satisfaction in the national pandemic strategy and greater concern about the concentration of power by the government, compared to all other Danish occupational categories as well as to business‐owners in Sweden. Our findings thus indicate that exposure to the economic costs of pandemic strategies was not only associated with more critical views towards public health measures, but that it also made citizens more likely to see them as violations to democratic rights.
Acute Tracheal Obstruction Secondary to Cervical Liposarcoma Metastasis
Authors: Chen Haoyu , Zhang Song , Zhou Haining
Published: December 2024

Tracheal obstruction can arise from multiple conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, foreign bodies, tumors, and acute heart failure. We report a case of a 43‐year‐old man with cervical liposarcoma who, following surgical excision, chemotherapy, and radiation, presented with severe dyspnea and was admitted to our hospital. A CT scan detected an endotracheal mass causing significant obstruction, suspected to be malignant. The patient required intensive care due to respiratory distress. Bronchoscopy revealed a red polypoid lesion causing nearly 90% tracheal narrowing, which was successfully resected using high‐frequency electrotrap and argon coagulation, confirming it as a metastasis from the previously treated liposarcoma. Remarkably, there were no significant recurrences after 6 months. While lung metastases are frequent, intratracheal metastasis is rare; this case is the first documenting bronchial and tracheal metastasis of liposarcoma. It highlights the dangers of airway obstruction and the need for timely intervention. Although CT scans are helpful in identifying intrabronchial tumors, bronchoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment, with several options available for urgent cases.
Parents' perspectives and behaviors regarding their child's access to alcohol: Variation by race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and neighborhood
Authors: Sartor Carolyn E. , Latendresse Shawn J. , Jackson Kristina M. , Steers Mai‐Ly N. , Lipperman‐Kreda Sharon , Slade Tim , Chung Tammy
Published: December 2024

Background

Setting rules about alcohol use and minimizing its availability in the home are known effective parent‐level strategies for reducing underage drinking risk. However, parents' restrictions and their perceptions of their child's alcohol access have rarely been considered in combination (e.g., determining if rule‐setting consistently accompanies perceived easy access), despite the potential to inform targeted prevention. The current study identified patterns in six parent‐reported indicators of their child's alcohol restrictions and access and characterized them with respect to race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, community type (urban, suburban, or rural), and neighborhood (dis)advantage.

Methods

Latent profile analysis was applied to Follow‐up Year 2 data from the parents of Black, Latinx, and White participants in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (n = 9586; youth mean age = 12.05; 47.50% girl, 51.32% boy, 0.32% other gender; 14.29% Black, 25.97% Latinx, and 59.74% White) to derive distinct profiles.

Results

Four profiles (subgroups) emerged: High Restrictions/No Drinkers in Household (32.18%), Low Restrictions/High Access (29.58%), High Restrictions/High Access (26.38%), and High Restrictions/Low Access (11.86%). Black and Latinx youth and parents with relatively low educational attainment and income were overrepresented in the High Restrictions/No Drinkers in Household and High Restrictions/Low Access subgroups. By contrast, the low restrictions subgroups were composed primarily of parents of White youth living in advantaged neighborhoods.

Conclusions

Findings support the notion that parents' perspectives and behaviors around youth alcohol access cannot be divided simply into restrictive and permissive. Further, the observed differences by demographic and neighborhood factors suggest the value of tailoring parent‐level prevention approaches to consider community norms.
Increased mortality from alcohol use disorder, alcohol‐associated liver disease, and liver cancer from alcohol among older adults in the United States: 2000 to 2021
Authors: Danpanichkul Pojsakorn , Duangsonk Kwanjit , Tham Ethan Kai Jun , Tothanarungroj Primrose , Auttapracha Thanida , Prasitsumrit Vitchapong , Sim Benedix , Tung Daniel , Barba Romelia , Wong Robert J. , Leggio Lorenzo , Yang Ju Dong , Chen Vincent L. , Noureddin Mazen , Díaz Luis Antonio , Arab Juan Pablo , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Liangpunsakul Suthat
Published: December 2024

Background

To investigate the trends in alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD), liver cancer from alcohol, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) burden among older adults in the United States (US).

Methods

We gathered the ALD, liver cancer from alcohol, and AUD prevalence, mortality, and age‐standardized rates (ASRs) from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021 between 2010 and 2021. We estimated the annual percent change (APC) with confidence intervals (CIs) for the burden of ALD, liver cancer from alcohol, and AUD in older adults (>70 years) in the United States. The findings were contrasted with global estimates and categorized by sex and state.

Results

In 2021, there were approximately 512,340 cases of AUD, 56,990 cases of ALD, and 4490 cases of primary liver cancer from alcohol among older adults in the United States. In contrast to declining ASRs of prevalence and mortality in the global burden, these parameters were increased in older adults in the United States. From 2000 to 2021, prevalence from AUD (APC: 0.54%, 95% CI 0.43% to 0.65%), ALD (APC + 0.54%, 95% CI 0.22% to 0.86%), and primary liver cancer from alcohol (APC 2.93%, 95% CI 2.76% to 3.11%) increased. Forty states in the United States exhibited a rise in the prevalence rates of ALD in older adults.

Conclusion

Our findings highlighted the increased prevalence and mortality of AUD, ALD, and primary liver cancer from alcohol among older adults in the United Sates, contrasting with the decline in global trends. Public health strategies on ALD, AUD, and primary liver cancer from alcohol, which targets older adults, are urgently needed.
Two Coupled Continuous‐Flow Ventricular Assist Devices as a Novel BIVAD With One Driveline—Acute Animal Study Results
Authors: Knigge Sara , Dogan Günes , Deniz Ezin , Hanke Jasmin , Merzah Ali , Berliner Dominik , Kong Fanwu , Heilmann Torsten , Schmack Bastian , Popov Aron F. , Weymann Alexander , Bauersachs Johann , Ruhparwar Arjang , Schmitto Jan D.
Published: December 2024

Background

The study assesses the feasibility of the DuoCor BiVAS, a novel biventricular assist system integrating magnetic levitation technology.

Methods

In an acute large animal model involving five sheep, each received the DuoCor BiVAS without cardiopulmonary bypass. Hemodynamic and device parameters were monitored continuously for 1‐h post‐implantation.

Results

Intraoperative implantation was uneventful, demonstrating successful biventricular support with mean blood flows of 5.4 LPM (left) and 5.5 LPM (right). Analysis showed proportional flow rates and relationships between pump speed, flow, and power consumption. No adverse events like thrombus formation, bleeding, stroke, or device failure occurred.

Conclusion

This research underscores the DuoCor BiVAS's potential for severe biventricular heart failure treatment, providing insights into its feasibility and functionality in acute animal models. The findings suggest promising clinical applications, particularly with the system's single driveline design potentially enhancing patient mobilization and quality of life. Further investigations are needed to advance this technology for broader clinical use.
Do neighbourhood challenges affect the mental health of residents? Insights from the 2018 and 2021 Canadian Housing Surveys
Authors: Saaka Sulemana Ansumah , Mohammed Kamaldeen , Antabe Roger
Published: December 2024

Neighbourhood physical and social disorders are shown to have adverse impacts on residents’ mental health. Identifying and addressing neighbourhood challenges is crucial for promoting social cohesion and mental well‐being. Nonetheless, there is a dearth of research on this important topic within Canada, prompting a comprehensive evaluation of the association between neighbourhoods’ challenges and self‐rated mental health. Using the 2018 (N = 61,021) and 2021(N = 40,988) Canadian Housing Surveys and employing logistic regression models for comparative analysis, we found that residents of neighbourhoods with challenges including harassment, drug use, drunkenness, unsafeness at night, noise, smog/air pollution, garbage litter, and vandalism, reported lower odds of positive mental health (PMH) both pre‐pandemic and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Also, females reported lower odds of PMH both pre‐pandemic and during the pandemic. However, residents with post‐secondary educational attainment, those from wealthy households, and those in two‐member households, significantly reported PMH before and during the pandemic. Civic engagement with the local community also correlated more with PMH, but pre‐pandemic only. Provincial variations were further observed. Thus, we concluded that neighbourhood challenges contribute to poor mental health. Socio‐economic and provincial differences underscore the importance of tailored interventions and support systems for mental health across regions. However, it is important to highlight that the self‐reported nature of our data may result in biased perceptions. That is, participants’ existing poorer mental health status may influence their opinions about the neighbourhoods. Also, the tendency of social desirability to influence responses may suggest a bidirectional neighbourhood‐mental health relationship.
Design, Synthesis and Pro‐Inflammatory Activity of Palmitoylated Derivatives of Thioglycolic Acid as New Immunomodulators
Authors: Mohamed Samia M. , Abou‐Ghadir Ola M. F. , El‐Mokhtar Mohamed A. , Aboraia Ahmed S. , Abdel‐Moty Samia G. , Abdel‐Aal Abu‐Baker M.
Published: December 2024

The immune system is essential for the defense against infections and is critically implicated in various disorders, including immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, inflammation and cancer. The current study includes a new design of palmitoylated derivatives of thioglycolic acids (PTGAs) capable of triggering innate immune responses. The new series were accessible through a three‐step synthetic route, including N‐palmitoylation, Claisen–Schmidt condensation and thia‐Michael addition. Their structures were elucidated using different 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques and their purity was confirmed by elemental analysis. The most active PTGAs induced a 12–26‐fold increase in the expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β mRNA and triggered a marked release of NO in isolated macrophages. These levels were comparable to the responses elicited by heat‐killed E. coli and S. aureus. The position of the palmitamide chain and aryl substitution had a significant effect on the TNF‐α and IL‐1β mRNA expression and NO release. Simulations of molecular dockings showed that the new PTGA derivatives occupy the same TLR2/TLR6 heterodimer active binding site of the microbial diacylated lipoproteins. The new immunomodulators may have a profound impact on various clinical disorders associated with dysfunctional innate immunity.
Ataxia With Vitamin E Deficiency: Case Series, Vitamin E Therapy Response, Founder Effect, and In Silico Analysis
Authors: Biglari Sajjad , Nikuei Pooneh , Mir Atefeh , Vahidnezhad Hassan , Youssefian Leila , Moghaddam Atefeh Sohanforooshan , Tabatabaiefar Mohammad Amin , Saeidian Amir Hossein , Khorram Erfan , Fard Mohammad Ali Farazi , Farbood Zahra , Shahrooei Mohammad , Khorshid Hamid Reza Khorram , Esmaeilzadeh Emran
Published: December 2024

Ataxia with Vitamin E Deficiency (AVED) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder, that caused by pathogenic variants in the TTPA gene, which encodes the alpha‐tocopherol transfer protein. This study investigates eight patients from three consanguineous Iranian families, using exome sequencing (ES) and Sanger sequencing to identify novel pathogenic variants in the TTPA gene. Two variants were identified: c.219T>A (p.Tyr73*) and c.205‐1G>C. the first one (c.219T>A) related to potentially founder effects within regions of homozygosity. Clinical outcomes varied among patients based on vitamin E therapy initiation, with early treatment preventing severe neurological impairment. These findings improve knowledge of TTPA variants, supporting targeted genetic‐based therapy. This study emphasizes the importance of genetic screening in consanguineous communities for the early detection and management of Mendelian diseases, with additional implications for managing rare genetic disorders generally.
Cognitive Remediation in Patients With Bipolar Disorder: A Randomized Trial by Sequential tDCS and Navigated rTMS Targeting the Primary Visual Cortex
Authors: Zhou Hetong , Wang Minmin , Xu Ting , Zhang Xiaomei , Zhao Xudong , Tang Lili , Zhao Pengfei , Wang Dandan , Lai Jianbo , Wang Fei , Zhang Shaomin , Hu Shaohua
Published: December 2024

Background

Non‐invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), has emerged as a promising alternative in the precise treatment of clinical symptoms, such as the cognitive impairment of bipolar disorder (BD). Optimizing the neurocognitive effects by combining tDCS and rTMS to strengthen the clinical outcome is a challenging research issue.

Objective

In this randomized, controlled trial, we first combined tDCS and neuronavigated rTMS targeting the V1 region to explore the efficacy on neurocognitive function in BD patients with depressive episodes.

Methods

Eligible individuals (n = 105) were assigned into three groups, Group A (active tDCS‐active rTMS), Group B (sham tDCS‐active rTMS), and Group C (active tDCS‐sham rTMS). All participants received 3‐week treatment in which every participant received 15 sessions of stimulation through the study, 5 sessions every week, with tDCS treatment followed by neuronavigated rTMS every session. We evaluated the cognitive, emotional, and safety outcomes at week‐0 (w0, baseline), week‐3 (w3, immediately post‐treatment), and week‐8 (w8, follow‐up period). The THINC‐integrated tool (THINC‐it), 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Young Mania Rating Scale were applied for evaluating the cognitive function and emotional state, respectively. Data were analyzed by repeated measure ANOVA and paired t‐test.

Results

Eventually, 32 patients in Group A, 27 in Group B, and 23 in Group C completed the entire treatment. Compared to Groups B and C, Group A showed greater improvement in Symbol Check items (Time and Accuracy) at W3 and Symbol Check Accuracy at W8 (p < 0.01). The W0‐W3 analysis indicated a significant improvement in depressive symptoms in both Group A and Group B (p < 0.01). Additionally, neuroimaging data revealed increased activity in the calcarine sulcus in Group A, suggesting potential neuroplastic changes in the visual cortex following the electromagnetic stimulation.

Conclusions

These findings provide preliminary evidence that the combination of navigated rTMS with tDCS targeting V1 region may serve as a potential treatment strategy for improving cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in BD patients.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trial Registry number: NCT05596461
Causal Relationships Between Epilepsy, Anti‐Epileptic Drugs, and Serum Vitamin D and Vitamin D Binding Protein: A Bidirectional and Drug Target Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Cheng Zizhang , Zuo Jinyi , Peng Xintao , Zhang Haoran , Su Wenlong , Luan Guoming , Guan Yuguang
Published: December 2024

Aims

Previous studies suggest potential associations between epilepsy, anti‐epileptic drugs (AEDs), and levels of vitamin D and vitamin D‐binding protein (VDBP). This study aims to investigate the causal relationships among these variables using Mendelian Randomization (MR) methods.

Methods

Using summary data from genome‐wide association studies on serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels (N = 417,580), VDBP concentrations (N = 65,589), and various types of epilepsy (Ncases = 27,559), MR analyses were conducted to determine bidirectional causal relationships among these variables. Additionally, eQTL data from eQTLGen (N = 31,684) were employed to model the effects of AEDs and evaluate their causal impact on both biomarkers.

Results

No causal relationships were found between serum 25(OH)D or VDBP levels and epilepsy. Although genetically predicted focal epilepsy risk was potentially associated with increased serum 25(OH)D levels (OR 1.031, 95% CI: 1.006–1.058, p = 0.017), and a higher genetic risk of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy was linked to lower VDBP levels (OR 0.977, 95% CI: 0.961–0.993, p = 0.004), both associations lost significance after multiple correction. Furthermore, significant associations were observed between serum 25(OH)D levels and AED target genes SCN4A, GABBR1, CA13, ALDH5A1, and CA8. No significant associations were found between AED target genes and VDBP levels after correction.

Conclusion

No causal relationships were found between genetically determined serum 25(OH)D levels, VDBP, and epilepsy or its subtypes. Furthermore, the use of AEDs, such as Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine, Progabide, and Valproic Acid, reduces serum 25(OH)D levels, while not affect VDBP levels.
Accelerated Infant Brain Rhythm Maturation in Autism
Authors: Dickinson Abigail , McDonald Nicole , Dapretto Mirella , Campos Emilie , Senturk Damla , Jeste Shafali
Published: December 2024

Electroencephalography (EEG) captures characteristic oscillatory shifts in infant brain rhythms over the first year of life, offering unique insights into early functional brain development and potential markers for detecting neural differences associated with autism. This study used functional principal component analysis (FPCA) to derive dynamic markers of spectral maturation from task‐free EEG recordings collected at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months from 87 infants, 51 of whom were at higher likelihood of developing autism due to an older sibling diagnosed with the condition. FPCA revealed three principal components explaining over 96% of the variance in infant power spectra, with power increases between 6 and 9 Hz (FPC1) representing the most significant age‐related trend, accounting for more than 71% of the variance. Notably, this oscillatory change occurred at a faster rate in infants later diagnosed with autism, indicated by a steeper trajectory of FPC1 scores between 3 and 12 months (p < 0.001). Age‐related spectral changes were consistent regardless of familial likelihood status, suggesting that differences in oscillatory timing are associated with autism outcomes rather than genetic predisposition. These findings indicate that while the typical sequence of oscillatory maturation is preserved in autism, the timing of these changes is altered, underscoring the critical role of timing in autism pathophysiology and the development of potential screening tools.
Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of controlled‐release phentermine/topiramate in adults with obesity in Korea: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase 4 trial (QUEEN's study)
Authors: Hong Sangmo , Kim Won Jun , Kang Eun Seok , Jeong In‐Kyung , Kim Chong Hwa , Lee Ki Young , Kim Sungrae , Oh Seung Joon , Lee Chang Beom
Published: December 2024

Aims

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a combination of phentermine and delayed‐release topiramate (PHEN/TPM CR) versus placebo as an adjunct to standard lifestyle recommendations in Korean adults.

Materials and Methods

This 56‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase 4 trial enrolled adults (age 19–70 years) with obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) at eight sites in South Korea. After a 12‐week lifestyle programme, participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive PHEN/TPM CR or placebo. PHEN/TPM CR was commenced at 3.75 mg/23 mg daily for 14 days and increased to 7.5 mg/46 mg daily, and to 15 mg/92 mg if 3% weight loss was not achieved after 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were percentage change in body weight from baseline to Week 56.

Results

A total of 232 participants underwent randomization. At 56 weeks, the percentage change in body weight was −8.3% with PHEN/TPM CR and −2.3% with placebo (treatment difference −6.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI], −7.7 to −4.5, p < 0.001). Participants receiving PHEN/TPM CR were more likely to achieve ≥5% weight loss compared with those receiving placebo (68.5% vs. 25.0%, odds ratio [OR], 6.4; 95% CI, 3.5 to 11.6; p < 0.001). Dizziness, paraesthesia and dry mouth were more common in the PHEN/TPM CR group, although most adverse events were mild or moderate.

Conclusions

Administration of PHEN/TPM CR plus lifestyle intervention in Korean adults with obesity resulted in a greater reduction in body weight and adiposity than lifestyle intervention alone.
Active employees in the future workplace: From job crafting to selfergetic job crafting
Authors: Paraskevopoulou Louiza , Tzoumaka Eugenia , Apospori Eleni , Siachou Evangelia
Published: December 2024

The job crafting theory implies, but does not explicitly present the relationship between the self and the job. To fill the gap, we theorize upon the holistic view of the self, and selfergy, a new concept reflecting the unique manner by which employees craft their jobs. Based on the principles of the self‐determination theory, we have advanced the job crafting theory by incorporating the concept of ‘selfergy’ to capture the integration of the self in the job crafting process. We conducted an inductive qualitative study, based on the Gioia methodology, consisted of 29 semi‐structured interviews, within the field of education. The findings highlight that selfergy is a bi‐dimensional concept manifested through personalized crafting and self‐revelation. It is immersed in all job crafting forms (cognitive, task, relationship) and further expressed as selfergetic job crafting. By adopting a sensemaking approach, we present a process model that shows the transition from cognitive to behavioral crafting and the way selfergy is integrated within those. The study introduces the role of emerging themes in the job crafting theory, such as the role of practical wisdom and other/me orientations in the judgment phase as well as the outcome of the personal mark. The findings shed light on the importance of selfergy at work and provide insights to facilitate employees' transition to the selfergetic job crafting process. The outcomes are applicable to the education sector, as well as others with deeper ethical, emotional, and societal implications enabling employees to align with the requirements of the future workplace.
Diagnostic interobserver variability of atypia assessment in columnar cell lesions among a group of expert breast pathologists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, on behalf of the UK national coordinating committee for breast pathology
Authors: El Sheikh Soha , Mansour Mohamed A , Provenzano Elena , Shaaban Abeer , Lee Andrew , Mir Yasmeen , McMillan‐Slater Rebecca , Carder Pauline , Di Palma Silvana , Boyd Clinton , Makhija Purnima , Warren Madhuri , Pritchard Susan , Deb Rahul , Ellis Ian , Rakha Emad , Quinn Cecily , Pinder Sarah
Published: December 2024

Aims

Atypical ductal hyperplasia and flat epithelial atypia (FEA) have defined diagnostic criteria, yet there is variation in the interpretation of these criteria, particularly when the atypia is present in a background of columnar cell lesions (CCLs). This study focuses upon cases which are especially challenging or difficult to classify reproducibly according to existing criteria.

Methods and results

Thirteen breast pathology experts were asked to classify 10 challenging cases with CLLs as atypical or non‐atypical. Interobserver agreement was calculated. After two consensus meetings, which explored the morphological features underlying the decision, the cases were reassessed. Finally, a photomontage was compiled as a visual aid for practising pathologists representing a range of straightforward cases and others where subjective interpretation causes disagreement within current diagnostic criteria. Overall interobserver agreement and pairwise pathologist agreement coefficients were both in the fair range (κ = 0.22 and κ = 0.3–0.4, respectively). This improved to moderate or substantial agreement (κ = 0.6–0.8) after two consensus meetings. The most controversial cases were atypical cases that lacked the regular rounded nuclei of FEA, and non‐atypical cases that had florid architectural changes bordering on architectural atypia.

Conclusion

Among expert breast pathologists, interobserver agreement in the diagnosis of atypia in CCLs was higher in cases with classical features of FEA. Consensus was difficult to achieve if nuclear or architectural atypia fell outside the classical definition of FEA, suggesting that this category does not encompass the range of low‐grade cytological atypia in CLLs. This study provides rationale for expanding the definition of atypia in CCLs other than FEA.
Adolescent experiences of weight‐related communication: Sociodemographic differences and the role of parents
Authors: Lessard Leah M. , Wu Rui , Puhl Rebecca M. , Foster Gary D. , Cardel Michelle I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Weight‐related conversations are common between adolescents and parents. However, there is limited understanding of how these conversations vary across sociodemographic groups, such as sex, sexual orientation, race/ethnicity, or parents' level of education. This study assessed the prevalence of weight‐related communication among adolescents and parents across sociodemographic characteristics, and identified adolescents' preferred sources for these discussions.

Methods

Quantitative data were collected through online surveys from two independent U.S. samples: adolescents aged 10–17 years of age (N = 2032), and parents of children aged 10–17 years of age (N = 1936). Frequency and sources of weight‐related communication were assessed. Sociodemographic factors were analysed for their associations with these communication patterns.

Results

While few differences emerged based on race/ethnicity or grade level, significant variation was observed for sex, sexual orientation, and parental education. Girls, sexual minority youth, high school students, and those with college‐educated parents were more likely to communicate about their own weight, whereas boys were more likely to comment on others' weight. Most adolescents preferred healthcare professionals (71%) and parents (69%) for these conversations, although sexual minority youth preferred mental health professionals considerably more than parents. Among parents, 77% discussed their child's weight, with fathers and Latinx parents engaging more frequently in these conversations, and Black parents engaging least frequently.

Conclusion

Weight‐related communication is prevalent among adolescents and parents, with variation across sociodemographic characteristics. As healthcare professionals and parents were identified as the preferred sources for weight‐related communication by adolescents across sociodemographic groups, it is important that paediatricians and parents are equipped to engage in these conversations without imparting stigma.
SARS‐CoV‐2 Infection Among Nursing Home Healthcare Workers: A Longitudinal Study in North‐Eastern Italy
Authors: Rosolen Valentina , Menis Diana , Castriotta Luigi , Barbone Fabio , Larese Filon Francesca
Published: December 2024

Background

During the pandemic, a surveillance program to monitor COVID‐19 infection among healthcare workers was established in Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (FVG), Italy. The aim of our study was to measure the risk of acquiring SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among nursing home employees by job title.

Methods

From March 1, 2020, to March 31, 2023, a retrospective population‐based longitudinal study was conducted in 8880 nursing home employees. For each employee, all swabs up to the first positive result (n = 211.534) were considered. The study period was divided in six phases based on epidemic waves. Generalized estimated equations method for longitudinal binary data was applied with a time lag of a month, in each phase, obtaining an odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence limit (95% CI) for each job category.

Results

In Phase 1 (1.3.2020–30.6.2020), compared with administrative assistants, jobs with high patient contact were at increased risk of infection: The OR and 95% CI were 3.52 (1.44–8.56) and 2.96 (1.15–7.66) in healthcare elementary occupation and physicians/nurses, respectively. Corresponding associations in Phase 2 (1.7.2020–31.1.2021) were 1.54 (1.18–2.02) and 1.41 (1.04–1.91). On the contrary, in Phase 6 (20.12.2021–31.3.2023) physicians/nurses were at a decreased risk (0.73 [0.58–0.91]).

Conclusions

In nursing homes, the risk of COVID‐19 infection varied by job title and pandemic phase. Virus higher infectivity, probability of closer contact, and better adherence to infection prevention control may explain part of these differences. Stronger nursing home–specific surveillance in patients and employees should be extended worldwide to control this high global burden of disease communities.
Emerging Therapeutics in the Fight Against EV‐D68: A Review of Current Strategies
Authors: Kalam Nida , Balasubramaniam Vinod R. M. T.
Published: December 2024

Enterovirus‐D68 (EV‐D68) was first identified in 1962 in pediatric patients with acute respiratory conditions in California, USA (US). From the 1970s to 2005, EV‐D68 was underestimated due to limited data and serotyping methods. In 2014, the United States experienced outbreaks of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) in children EV‐D68 positive. WIN‐like compounds (pleconaril, pocapavir, and vapendavir) bind to the virus capsid and have been tested against various enteroviruses (EVs) in clinical trials. However, these compounds encountered issues with resistance and adverse effects, which impeded their approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Presently, the medical field lacks FDA‐approved antiviral treatments or vaccines for EV‐D68. Ongoing research efforts are dedicated to identifying viable therapeutics to address EV‐D68 infections. This review explores the current advancements in antiviral therapies and potential therapeutics to mitigate the significant impact of EV‐D68 infection control.
New evidence confirms the presence of the diamond stingray Hypanus dipterurus (Jordan & Gilbert 1880) in Chile and extends its southern range
Authors: Almendras Diego , Villafaña Jaime A. , Bustamante Carlos , Contreras Ignacio , Campoy Ana N. , Dufflocq Pablo , Rivadeneira Marcelo M.
Published: December 2024

The diamond stingray (Hypanus dipterurus) is a species of cartilaginous fish that, according to the IUCN, is globally in a vulnerable state of conservation and its populations show a decline. New records of this ray species in southern Peru and northern Chile have expanded their known range. The species is distributed in the Eastern Central Pacific, from southern California to San Andres, on the central coast of Peru, but is poorly known in Chile. Angler records mined from social media and historical data confirmed the presence of H. dipterurus along southern Peru and northern Chile, extending southward over 1250 km. A species distribution model (SDM) based on previous global occurrences combined with oceanographic layers was built to identify areas of potential and undocumented presence of H. dipterurus. The SDM showed high accuracy (area under the curve = 0.95) and predicted the potential presence of H. dipterurus along vast areas of the Peruvian and Chilean coasts, where the presence of the species was poorly documented. Comprehensive surveys are required to understand the distribution, population dynamics, habitat requirements, and threats to effective conservation efforts in the southern region of its distribution range.
Decentralized Exchange: The Uniswap Automated Market Maker
Authors: LEHAR ALFRED , PARLOUR CHRISTINE
Published: December 2024

Uniswap is a system of smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain and is the largest decentralized exchange with a liquidity balance worth up to 4 billion USD and daily trading volume of up to 7 billion USD. It is a new model of liquidity provision, so‐called automated market making. For this new market form, we characterize equilibrium in the liquidity pools. We collect all 95.8 million Uniswap interactions and compare this automated market maker (AMM) to a centralized limit order book. We document absence of long‐lived arbitrage opportunities, and show conditions under which the AMM dominates a limit order market.
The Heterogeneous Effects of EU Structural Funds: A Spatial VAR Approach
Authors: Destefanis Sergio , Di Giacinto Valter
Published: December 2024

This paper focuses on the impact of EU structural funds (SFs) on the GDP per capita of 183 European NUTS‐2 regions throughout the 1990–2018 period. To allow for the endogeneity of funds allocation to regions, we estimate a bivariate structural panel VAR model, including a rich menu of control variables. Our main identifying restriction is based on the widely documented long lags affecting the implementation of EU's cohesion policy. Through a spatial VAR specification, we also estimate spillovers from local SF expenditure on other areas. We find highly significant multipliers measuring the local response of GDP to an exogenous shock in local SF expenditure, with a long‐run value settling at 2.7. Spillovers for GDP from an exogenous shock to SFs are also positive and significant, but much smaller (about one‐fifth of the within‐region responses). When partitioning our sample according to features suggested by the literature (stage of development, EU funding regimes, size), we find that within‐region multipliers are higher in lagging regions, especially if located in countries supported by the Cohesion Fund, and in regions with a larger population. Spillovers are also heterogeneous across different groups of regions, turning out to be negative in regions belonging to countries not supported by the Cohesion Fund. This evidence is largely validated in qualitative terms by refinements of the analysis concerned with the choice of proximity matrices.
Challenges and consensus: A survey of the management of neonatal hypoglycaemia within the Pacific Islands
Authors: Liu Julia , Irvine Lauren , Lindsay Natalie , Woods Lisa , Harris Deborah L
Published: December 2024

Aim

To describe the management of neonatal hypoglycaemia within Pacific Island countries and territories by surveying practising clinicians.

Methods

Survey questions were adapted from a similar survey conducted across Australian and New Zealand neonatal nurseries. An anonymous, electronic survey link and QR code were disseminated to clinicians via our partner organisations, Facebook and direct email. Data collected were primarily descriptive.

Results

Fifty‐one surveys were received from 13 Pacific Island countries. Two‐t hirds (69%) of respondents reported having a neonatal hypoglycaemia protocol in their nursery. The four protocols received defined hypoglycaemia as a blood glucose concentration <2.6 mmol/L. However, treatment thresholds reported varied from <1.0 mmol/L to <3.0 mmol/L. Feeding was the most common treatment. One‐third of the respondents reported resource barriers to effective management, such as a lack of specialist training and limited resources.

Conclusions

There are variations in the screening, diagnosis and treatment of neonatal hypoglycaemia in the Pacific Island countries, despite consistency in the management of neonatal hypoglycaemia within the clinical protocols. Barriers to the safe and effective management of neonatal hypoglycaemia remain concerning.
Decoding transnationalism within the Georgian far right: ‘The good, the bad and the ugly’
Authors: Gozalishvili Nino
Published: December 2024

The contemporary far right is entangled in multidimensional ways including various forms of reciprocal influences, the diffusion of subject matters and issue‐framings, the relevance of external examples for local political discussions and an extra‐national platform for influencing transnational developments. Departing from the ‘globalisation front’ in the study of the phenomenon, this article aims to deconstruct the nature of this transnationality by focusing on the forms of indirect diffusion and both negative as well as affirmative forms of referential inspirations. In doing so, the article proceeds from providing an overview of various perceptions of transnationalism in the study of the contemporary far right to offering an empirical analysis of the Georgian case to demonstrate nuances of the transnationality within far right discourses. The analysis is based on the social media data as well as the two sets of qualitative interviews with the leaders and representatives of national‐populist formations that are utilised for reconstructing discursive topics and strategies. Ultimately, the article demonstrates the importance of negative source inspiration and drawing of fictitious scenarios on top of lesson‐drawing and mimicking of political discourses as illustrative designs of increasing transnationalism.