bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fig4 confers tolerance to rapamycin in a Ste20-dependent manner independent of the Vac14 scaffold
Authors: Reeves Hannah E. , King Anna , Khan Imran , Thomas Asha , Chung Corey , Dotson Lauren D. , Sivaprakash Anirudan , Hall Harrison A. , Habib Alim , Lee Sophia Rosella , Lloyd Bonnie C. , Darbro Caroline L. , Strunk Bethany S.
Published: July 2024

The lipid phosphatase Fig4 modulates the production and turnover of the signaling lipid PI3,5P2 through participation in a complex with its opposing kinase, Fab1, and the scaffold protein Vac14. Fig4 point mutations are associated with neurological diseases for which there are currently no specific therapies. Pathology involving Fig4 is generally attributed to disruption of the Fab1-Vac14-Fig4 complex. Through genetic manipulations in yeast we show that expression of Fig4 disease-related mutants confers tolerance to rapamycin, an inhibitor of the master growth activator TORC1. This phenotype is dominantly conferred at high temperatures by Fig4 mutants that bind poorly to Vac14 or by excess wild-type Fig4. Rapamycin tolerance does not require Fig4 catalytic activity or Vac14, suggesting that Fig4 mediates this altered stress response through context-inappropriate binding interactions with unknown proteins. The p21-activated kinase Ste20 is specifically required for this novel Vac14-independent Fig4 function. Our study shows that Fig4 can modulate homeostasis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae through interactions outside the Fab1-Vac14-Fig4 complex.
Continuous nuclear envelope surveillance is required for DNA double-strand break repair
Authors: Medina-Suárez Sara , Machín Félix
Published: July 2024

Precise double-strand break (DSB) repair is paramount for genome stability. Homologous recombination (HR) is preferred to repair DSBs when a nearby sister chromatid ensures an error-free template. InSaccharomyces cerevisiae, this preference extends into anaphase and telophase (late mitosis; late-M), despite sister chromatids having been pulled apart. Previously, we identified the nuclear envelope (NE) protein Msc1 as important for late-M DSB repair. Here, we report that Msc1 faces the NE lumen, and its depletion leads to DSB-independent over-compartmentalization of the nucleus, which hampers approximation of sister loci after DSB. Depletion of Msc1 also leads to nuclear pore complex mislocation, a phenotype shared by the highly conserved NE healing complex ESCRT-III. Critically, we show that both Msc1 and ESCRT-III also ensure DSB repair in G2/M, and that there is synergism between Msc1 and the ESCRT-III subunit Snf7. These findings highlight the essential role of NE health in DSB repair.
Competence induction of homologous recombination genes protects pneumococcal cells from genotoxic stress.
Authors: De Lemos David , Soulet Anne-Lise , Morales Violette , Berge Mathieu , Polard Patrice , Johnston Calum H G
Published: July 2024

Homologous recombination (HR) is a universally conserved mechanism of DNA strand exchange between homologous sequences, driven in bacteria by the universal recombinase RecA. HR is key for the maintenance of bacterial genomes via replication fork restart and DNA repair, as well as for their plasticity via the widespread mechanism of natural transformation. Transformation involves the capture and internalisation of exogenous DNA in the form of single strands (ssDNA), followed by chromosomal integration via HR. In the human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae, transformation occurs during a transient, stress-induced physiological state called competence. RecA and its partner DNA branch migration translocase RadA both cooperate in HR during transformation and in some recombinational DNA repair pathways of genome maintenance. Both recA and radA genes are basally expressed and transcriptionally induced during competence. In this study, we explored the importance of competence induction of recA and radA expression in transformation and genome maintenance processes. We confirmed that competence induction of recA was important for optimal transformation, but found this was not the case for radA. In contrast, the competence induction of both genes was required for optimal tolerance faced with transient exposure to the lethal genotoxic agent methyl methanesulfonate (MMS). However, this was not the case for another DNA-damaging agent, norfloxacin. These results show that competence induction of HR effectors is important for the increased tolerance to genotoxic stress provided to competent pneumococcal cells. This reinforces the finding that pneumococcal competence is a stress-sensing mechanism, transiently increasing the expression of some genes not to optimise transformation but to improve survival faced with specific lethal stresses.
Loss and decoherence in superconducting circuits on silicon: Insights from electron spin resonance
Authors: Jayaraman Aditya , Danilov Andrey V. , Bylander Jonas , Kubatkin Sergey E.
Published: July 2024

Solid-state devices used for quantum computation and quantum sensing applications are adversely affected by loss and noise caused by spurious, charged two-level systems (TLS) and stray paramagnetic spins. These two sources of noise are interconnected, exacerbating the impact on circuit performance. We use an on-chip electron spin resonance (ESR) technique, with niobium nitride (NbN) superconducting resonators, to study surface spins on silicon and the effect of postfabrication surface treatments. We identify two distinct spin species that are characterized by different spin-relaxation times and respond selectively to various surface treatments (annealing and hydrofluoric acid). Only one of the two spin species has a significant impact on the TLS-limited resonator quality factor at low-power (near-single-photon) excitation. We observe a three- to fivefold reduction in the total density of spins after surface treatments and demonstrate the efficacy of ESR spectroscopy in developing strategies to mitigate loss and decoherence in quantum systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact of population III stars on the astrophysical gravitational-wave background
Authors: Kouvatsos Nikolaos , Sakellariadou Mairi
Published: July 2024

We probe the astrophysical gravitational-wave background resulting from compact binary coalescences, focusing on population III binary black holes. We exploit results of state-of-the-art simulations on the evolution of population I-II and III binaries, considering a variety of initial condition and star formation rate models for the latter. The contribution from population III binary black holes is found to be very small, with no effect on the gravitational-wave spectrum. A network of third-generation detectors will detect easier individual population III binaries, due to their significantly higher masses, hence decreasing even further their residual contribution.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Boundary measurement tomography of the Bose Hubbard model on general graphs
Authors: Saxena Abhi , Abbasgholinejad Erfan , Majumdar Arka , Trivedi Rahul
Published: July 2024

Correlated quantum many-body phenomena in lattice models have been identified as a set of physically interesting problems that cannot be solved classically. Analog quantum simulators, in photonics and microwave superconducting circuits, have emerged as near-term platforms to address these problems. An important ingredient in practical quantum simulation experiments is the tomography of the implemented Hamiltonians—while this can easily be performed if we have individual measurement access to each qubit in the simulator, this could be challenging to implement in many hardware platforms. In this paper, we present a scheme for tomography of quantum simulators which can be described by a Bose-Hubbard Hamiltonian while having measurement access to only some sites on the boundary of the lattice. We present an algorithm that uses the experimentally routine transmission and two-photon correlation functions, measured at the boundary, to extract the Hamiltonian parameters at the standard quantum limit. Furthermore, by building on quantum enhanced spectroscopy protocols that, we show that with the additional ability to switch on and off the on-site repulsion in the simulator, we can sense the Hamiltonian parameters beyond the standard quantum limit.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Demonstration of neutron time-of-flight diffraction with an event-mode imaging detector
Authors: Jäger Tim T. , Losko Adrian S. , Wolfertz Alexander , Schmidt Søren , Bertelsen Mads , Khaplanov Anton , Agnew Sean R. , Funama Fumiaki , Morgano Manuel , Roth Markus , Gochanour Jason R. , Long Alexander M. , Lutterotti Luca , Vogel Sven C.
Published: July 2024

Neutron diffraction beamlines have traditionally relied on deploying large detector arrays of 3He tubes or neutron-sensitive scintillators coupled with photomultipliers to efficiently probe crystallographic and microstructure information of a given material. Given the large upfront cost of custom-made data acquisition systems and the recent scarcity of 3He, new diffraction beamlines or upgrades to existing ones demand innovative approaches. This paper introduces a novel Timepix3-based event-mode imaging neutron diffraction detector system as well as first results of a silicon powder diffraction measurement made at the HIPPO neutron powder diffractometer at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center. Notably, these initial measurements were conducted simultaneously with the 3He array on HIPPO, enabling direct comparison. Data reduction for this type of data was implemented in the MAUD code, enabling Rietveld analysis. Results from the Timepix3-based setup and HIPPO were benchmarked against McStas simulations, showing good agreement for peak resolution. With further development, systems such as the one presented here may substantially reduce the cost of detector systems for new neutron instrumentation as well as for upgrades of existing beamlines.
Magnetic contrast layers with functional SiO2 coatings for soft-matter studies with polarized neutron reflectometry
Authors: Dikaia Olga , Luchini Alessandra , Nylander Tommy , Grunin Alexei , Vorobiev Alexei , Goikhman Alexandr
Published: July 2024

This study introduces silicon substrates with a switchable magnetic contrast layer (MCL) for polarized neutron reflectometry (PNR) experiments at the solid–liquid interface to study soft-matter surface layers. During standard neutron reflectometry (NR) experiments on soft-matter samples, structural and compositional information is obtained by collecting experimental data with different isotopic contrasts on the same sample. This approach is normally referred to as contrast matching, and it can be achieved by using solvents with different isotopic contrast, e.g. different H2O/D2O ratios, and/or by selective deuteration of the molecules. However, some soft-matter systems might be perturbed by this approach, or it might be difficult to implement, particularly in the case of biological samples. In these scenarios, solid substrates with an MCL are an appealing alternative, as the magnetic contrast with the substrate can be used for partial recovery of information on the sample structure. More specifically, in this study, a magnetically soft Fe layer coated with SiO2 was produced by ion-beam sputter deposition on silicon substrates of different sizes. The structure was evaluated using X-ray reflectometry, atomic force microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry and PNR. The collected data showed the high quality and repeatability of the MCL parameters, regardless of the substrate size or the thickness of the capping SiO2 layer. Previously proposed substrates with an iron MCL used an Au capping layer. The SiO2 capping layer proposed here allows reproduction of the typical surface of a standard silicon substrate used for NR experiments and is compatible with a large variety of soft-matter samples. This application is demonstrated with ready-to-use 50 × 50 × 10 mm substrates in PNR experiments for the characterization of a lipid bilayer in a single solvent contrast. Overall, the article highlights the potential of PNR with an MCL for the investigation of soft-matter samples.
Synthesis, structure and red-light emission of a manganese halide directed by a methyldiphenylphosphine oxide complex
Authors: Li Jia-Wei , Niu Mengyuan , Feng Wei , Dong Wenke , Liu Yanjie , Yang Jingjing , Wang Chunjie , Zhang Hui , Song Wei-Wu
Published: July 2024

Controlling the optical activity of halide perovskite materials through modulation of the coordination configurations of the metal ions is important. Herein, a novel manganese-based halide, specifically diaquatetrakis(methyldiphenylphosphine oxide)manganese(II) tetrachloridomanganate(II), [Mn(C13H13OP)4(H2O)2][MnCl4] or [Mn(MDPPO)4(H2O)2][MnCl4] (MDPPO is methyldiphenylphosphine oxide), was synthesized through the solvothermal reaction of MnCl2 with the neutral molecule MDPPO. In this compound, [Mn(MDPPO)4(H2O)2]2+ acts as the cation, while [MnCl4]2− serves as the anion, enabling the co-existence of tetrahedral and octahedral structures within the same system. Remarkably, the compound exhibits efficient red-light emission at 662 nm, distinct from the green-light emission typically observed in MnX
4-based halides. Theoretical calculations show that the red emission comes from the charge transfer from the MDPPO to the Mn2+ of [MnCl4]2−. This work provides a new perspective for the design and synthesis of red-light-emitting manganese-based halides with unique structures.
Integrating technology acceptance model and value-based adoption model to determine consumers’ perception of value and intention to adopt AR in online shopping
Authors: Lai Zi Juan , Leong Mei Kei , Khoo Kim Leng , Sidhu Sarabjit Kaur
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study is among the first to integrate the technology acceptance model (TAM) and value-based adoption model (VAM) in the context of augmented reality (AR) shopping. It assesses how consumers' rational (TAM) and emotional (VAM) factors influence their intention to use AR in online shopping via perceived value and consumer engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative research approach and employs a standardized survey questionnaire distributed on social media platforms to recruit Gen Z members who are potential buyers or users of AR technology. SmartPLS 4.0 was used to test the responses of 204 respondents.

Findings

The results indicate that consumers who perceive a higher value of AR in shopping are inclined to use AR in their future shopping when AR shopping is easy to use, useful, personalized, innovative and provides a highly engaging experience. Interestingly, perceived sacrifice did not influence perceived value. This study confirms that integrating TAM and VAM is instrumental in capturing value, which in turn influences engagement and the intention to use AR in online shopping.

Originality/value

This study further extends the conceptualization of AR perceived value by combining rational components derived from TAM and VAM, thus leading to a sturdy and theoretically grounded framework. In addition, this study contributes to the literature on extended reality, namely AR shopping, and helps brand managers manage highly evolving AR experience for Gen Z.
Trade–aid link: does the Western aid promote Asian exports to Sri Lanka?
Authors: Bhavan Thangamani
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of foreign aid in terms of trade in Sri Lanka. This study aims to analyze whether foreign aid from the Western countries to Sri Lanka promotes exports to the donor countries and encourages imports from Asian countries.

Findings

The results derived from the analysis suggest that there is no significant relationship between aid and trade in the long run whereas foreign aid marginally causes only the imports in the short run. Overall, the study finds that foreign aid does not significantly affect trade in Sri Lanka.

Methodology

The auto regressive distributed lag bounds testing approach is used to examine the long- and short-run relations between foreign aid and trade using the annual time series data during the period from 1977 to 2019.

Practical implications

Sri Lanka has been one of the aid recipients among Asian countries since 1960. At the same time, Sri Lanka has been experiencing trade deficit since its independence and has to find all the ways to improve the trade. Because foreign aid has promoted trade in a numerous countries, it is high time for Sri Lanka to negotiate with the donor countries and agencies to design aid for trade promotion.

Originality

The nexus between the trade–aid link of Sri Lanka with Western and Asian country’s perspectives has not so far been investigated. The findings of this study would be a new knowledge added to the literature on the trade–aid link and be useful to the policymakers for decision-making and future researchers to cope up with further analysis.
Effect of baseball stadium food service quality on outcome variables with emphasis on the moderating role of stadium atmosphere
Authors: Jeong Yunduk
Published: July 2024

Purpose

While existing research has predominantly focused on the positive relationships between service quality and outcome variables, there has been limited investigation into the influence of food service quality on these variables or the moderating role of stadium atmosphere in the realm of sports marketing. This study aims to fill these gaps by examining the structural relationships between baseball stadium food quality, timeliness, satisfaction, and behavioral intention with an emphasis on the moderating effect of stadium atmosphere.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from spectators attending baseball games. This study established the validity of the measurement scale through confirmatory factor analysis, factor loadings, average variance extracted, and construct reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. In addition, this study employed structural equation modeling with maximum likelihood estimation to examine positive relationships and mediating effects and used Jamovi statistical software to conduct moderation analysis.

Findings

The findings demonstrate the significant impacts of food quality on satisfaction and behavioral intention, the positive effects of timeliness on satisfaction and behavioral intention, and the notable influence of satisfaction on behavioral intention. Additionally, this study found that satisfaction partially mediates the aforementioned relationships and that stadium atmosphere moderates these pathways.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by addressing the impact of food service quality on outcome variables within sports marketing, an area that has received limited attention. Specifically, it examines how food quality and timeliness influence consumer satisfaction and behavioral intention. Furthermore, the study highlights the moderating role of stadium atmosphere, demonstrating its potential to enhance the relationship between food quality and consumer outcomes. These findings expand our understanding of consumer behavior in sports settings, offering practical strategies for team officials to enhance fan experiences. By diversifying menu options, optimizing concession operations, and collaborating with local vendors, team officials can significantly improve food service quality and create a more engaging stadium atmosphere.
Sedentary settlers or nomadic opportunists? Diverging rationales in international entrepreneurial mobility
Authors: Mielly Michelle , Eyre Phil Watson , Hubner Felix
Published: July 2024

Purpose

International Entrepreneurs (IEs) increasingly cross borders to internationalize their activities, yet the various motives driving them into foreign markets are insufficiently understood vis-à-vis the public agencies striving to attract them. Our study proposes a consideration of their interplay by contrasting the various mobility rationales of IEs with those of the investment agencies striving to capture their talent.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirically, we concentrate on firms selected for funding in the French Tech Ticket, a competitive program designed to incentivize international start-ups to set up business in regional clusters across France. Using a longitudinal qualitative approach, we conducted two separate rounds of semi-structured interviews with IEs, public agency managers, and incubator staff members using thematic analysis of participant narratives on mobility.

Findings

Our findings point to diverging narratives on mobility, with an overarching opportunity-centrism on the part of the entrepreneurs and a general location-centrism emanating from the regional agencies. These contrasting visions of mobility are not mutually exclusive but rather present along a mobility continuum that generates contrasting logics.

Practical implications

Implications for policy and practice are provided for the investment agencies crafting policies and committing resources to attract mobile international entrepreneurs. While past IE mobility may correlate with the likelihood of present and future movement, our dual settler-explorer continuum model demonstrates that a binary separation of explorers and settlers is too simplistic: explorers may be subject to settler impulses and settlers can still be drawn to exploration and nomadism. We also provide insights for IEs seeking support in their international development and mobility and the particular advantages a given host economy can offer by identifying an overarching proximity-to-distance rationale for explorers, including the common “host-as-stopover” intermediary rationale.

Originality/value

We theorize this incommensurability as an expression of the current complexity of international mobility and policymaking, revealing a “next-frontier” expansionism in cross-border movement that requires more deliberate consideration.
Role of higher education institutions in developing digital competence in Sultanate of Oman: a step towards achieving Vision 2040
Authors: Bhandari Vibha , Mohite Vikram
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The study aims to assess Oman's preparedness for digital competency on three parameters: knowledge, technology, and future readiness. Second, it aims to identify critical areas of implementation of digital competency concerning HEIs.

Design/methodology/approach

Knowledge shall be assessed for talent, training and education, and scientific concentration. Technology will be evaluated based on regulatory, capital, and technological frameworks. Future readiness shall be examined based on adaptive attitude, business agility, and IT integration. The overall status in all three areas will be evaluated, considering contributions made by various stakeholders, such as the government, public agencies, corporations, educational institutions, etc. The data for this exploratory exercise shall be cogenerated from various secondary sources that are available openly.

Findings

Oman scores above average on parameters of technological and regulatory framework, adaptive attitudes, and IT integration, with an average score above 60 out of 100. Oman’s mean score for sub-factors like talent, training and education, capital, and business agility is average—between 50 and 60. The mean score for scientific concentration is 35.14—below average for this criterion.

Originality/value

Most of the studies in Oman have concentrated mainly on teachers' online awareness and competencies, particularly in schools during and after the post-COVID scenario. However, negligible studies are available for higher education. This is an original study for assessing digital competencies, particularly concerning higher education towards achieving Vision 2040 and diversifying the Sultanate of Oman as a knowledge economy.
The effect of job content plateau on career commitment: exploring moderated and mediated role of proactive personality and job crafting
Authors: Jena Biswa Prakash , Choudhary Archana , Pal Manas Kumar , Misra Siddharth
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The job content plateau (JCP) is a condition in which employees regard their jobs as routine, and it has been linked to employee turnover intentions and organisational dysfunctional consequences. As a result, the purpose of this study is to see how negative effects of JCP can be avoided.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework has been created and empirically tested that takes into account intervening elements such as job crafting (JCF) and proactive personality (PP) between JCP and career commitment (CC). In this study, survey data from professionals in a variety of businesses were gathered based on position level, total years of experience and educational level. To assess the efficacy of the suggested model and test the hypothesis proposition, confirmatory factor analysis and multiple regressions were used.

Findings

The study’s findings demonstrated that JCF plays a mediating function between JCP and CC, allowing proactive executives to lead their CC while minimizing JCP’s negative effects.

Originality/value

This study will have interesting implications and recommendations for practitioners and strategy makers when it comes to assessing the impact of JCP on enhancing career commitment among Indian executives.
The nature and determinants of user-generated content for dissatisfied customers: evidence from second-hand luxury fashion brands
Authors: Ozuem Wilson , Willis Michelle , Ranfagni Silvia , Rovai Serena , Howell Kerry
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study examined the links between user-generated content (UGC), dissatisfied customers and second-hand luxury fashion brands. A central premise of luxury fashion brands is the perceived status and privilege of those who own such items. Despite their marketing logic emphasising exclusivity and rarity, they have broadened their reach by integrating new digital marketing practices that increase access to luxury brand-related information and create opportunities for consumers to purchase products through second-hand sellers.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on an inductive qualitative study of 59 millennials from three European countries (France, Italy and the UK) and by examining the mediating role of UGC and dissatisfied customers, this paper develops a conceptual framework of three clusters of second-hand luxury fashion goods customers: spiritual consumers, entrepreneurial recoverer consumers and carpe diem consumers.

Findings

The proposed SEC framework (spiritual consumers, entrepreneurial recoverer consumers, and carpe diem consumers) illustrates how the emerging themes interconnect with the identified consumers, revealing significant consumer actions and attitudes found in the second-hand luxury goods sector that influence the usage of UGC and its integration into service failure and recovery efforts

Originality/value

This study suggested that the perceptions of consumers seeking second-hand luxury fashion products differ from those who purchase new or never previously owned luxury fashion products. Overall, this research sets the stage for scholars to forge a path forward to enhance the understanding of this phenomenon and its implications for luxury fashion companies.
The effect of modality on reading comprehension of struggling and typical readers in the second and third grades
Authors: Dotan Shahar , Katzir Tami
Published: July 2024

Background

“Screen inferiority” refers to a well‐established phenomenon observed among adults and teenagers, wherein they demonstrate higher reading comprehension when reading from paper compared to screens. However, there is limited research focusing on readers in the initial stages of reading development. The current study aims to investigate reading comprehension in both screen and paper settings, as well as modality preferences, among young typical and struggling readers in the second and third grades.

Methods

The study included 342 second graders and 284 third‐grade Hebrew readers. Their reading comprehension performance in both modalities and their preferences for a particular modality were assessed.

Results

The results suggested no differences in reading comprehension between the two modalities in the second and third grades. The only group that showed numerically higher performance on paper over computer was struggling readers in the second grade. The numeric proportion of modality preferences was higher on the computer rather than on paper.

Conclusions

The current study did not find an effect of modality on reading comprehension in the second and third grades. We did find that children in these grades prefer to read on screens. It is essential to examine the specific characteristics of the digital task to determine when it benefits young readers and when it may be detrimental to them.
Protective effect and mechanism of Lycium ruthenicum Murray anthocyanins against retinal damage induced by blue light exposure
Authors: Li Ping , Li Zhengang , Sun Qixiu , Zhang Wei , Huang Xine , Si Mohan , Du Xinjun , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2024

Lycium ruthenicum Murray (LR) is a medicine and edible plant in Northwest China, and L. ruthenicum Murray anthocyanins (LRA) are green antioxidants with various pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. However, the protective effect and mechanism of LRA against retinal damage induced by blue light exposure are poorly understood. This study explored the protective effects and potential mechanisms of LRA on retinal damage induced by blue light exposure in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that LRA could ameliorate oxidative stress injury by activating the antioxidant stress nuclear factor‐related factor 2 pathway, promoting the expression of phase II detoxification enzymes (HO‐1, NQO1) and endogenous antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase), and reducing reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, LRA could inhibit inflammatory response by decreasing the expression of blue light exposure‐induced nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway‐related proteins (NF‐κB and p‐IκBα), as well as interleukin (IL)‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, IL‐1β pro‐inflammatory factors and pro‐inflammatory chemokine VEGF, and increasing the expression of anti‐inflammatory factor IL‐10. Furthermore, LRA could ameliorate oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis by upregulating Bcl‐2 and downregulating Bax and Caspase‐3 protein expression. All these results indicate that LRA can be used as an antioxidant dietary supplement for the treatment or prevention of retinal diseases.
Aetiology and predictors of outcome in non‐shockable in‐hospital cardiac arrest: A retrospective cohort study from the Swedish Registry for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Bruchfeld Samuel , Ullemark Erik , Riva Gabriel , Ohm Joel , Rawshani Araz , Djärv Therese
Published: July 2024

Background

Non‐shockable in‐hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is a condition with diverse aetiology, predictive factors, and outcome. This study aimed to compare IHCA with initial asystole or pulseless electrical activity (PEA), focusing specifically on their aetiologies and the significance of predictive factors.

Methods

Using the Swedish Registry of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, adult non‐shockable IHCA cases from 2018 to 2022 (n = 5788) were analysed. Exposure was initial rhythm, while survival to hospital discharge was the primary outcome. A random forest model with 28 variables was used to generate permutation‐based variable importance for outcome prediction.

Results

Overall, 60% of patients (n = 3486) were male and the median age was 75 years (IQR 67–81). The most frequent arrest location (46%) was on general wards. Comorbidities were present in 79% of cases and the most prevalent comorbidity was heart failure (33%). Initial rhythm was PEA in 47% (n = 2702) of patients, and asystole in 53% (n = 3086). The most frequent aetiologies in both PEA and asystole were cardiac ischemia (24% vs. 19%, absolute difference [AD]: 5.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.0% to 7.7%), and respiratory failure (14% vs. 13%, no significant difference). Survival was higher in asystole (24%) than in PEA (17%) (AD: 7.3%; 95% CI 5.2% to 9.4%). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) durations were longer in PEA, 18 vs 15 min (AD 4.9 min, 95% CI 4.0–5.9 min). The duration of CPR was the single most important predictor of survival across all subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Aetiology ranked as the second most important predictor in most analyses, except in the asystole subgroup where responsiveness at cardiac arrest team arrival took precedence.

Conclusions

In this nationwide registry study of non‐shockable IHCA comparing asystole to PEA, cardiac ischemia and respiratory failure were the predominant aetiologies. Duration of CPR was the most important predictor of survival, followed by aetiology. Asystole was associated with higher survival compared to PEA, possibly due to shorter CPR durations and a larger proportion of reversible aetiologies.
Is a vegetarian diet beneficial for bipolar disorder? Relationship between dietary patterns, exercise and pharmacological treatments with metabolic syndrome and course of disease in bipolar disorder
Authors: Gomes‐da‐Costa Susana , Fernandéz‐Pérez Isabel , Borras Roger , Lopez Noelia , Rivas Yudith , Ruiz Victoria , Pons‐Cabrera Maria Teresa , Giménez‐Palomo Anna , Anmella Gerard , Valentí Marc , Berk Michael , Vieta Eduard , Pacchiarotti Isabella
Published: July 2024

Background

Lifestyle factors are being increasingly studied in bipolar disorder (BD) due to their possible effects on both course of disease and physical health. The aim of this study was to jointly describe and explore the interrelations between diet patterns, exercise, pharmacological treatment with course of disease and metabolic profile in BD.

Methods

The sample consisted of 66 euthymic or mild depressive individuals with BD. Clinical and metabolic outcomes were assessed, as well as pharmacological treatment or lifestyle habits (diet and exercise). Correlations were explored for different interrelations and a factor analysis of dietary patterns was performed.

Results

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was low, seen in 37.9% of the patients and was positively associated with perceived quality of life. The amount of exercise was negatively associated with cholesterol levels, with 32.8% of participants rated as low active by International Physical Activity Questionnaire. There was a high prevalence of obesity (40.6%) and metabolic syndrome (29.7%). Users of lithium showed the best metabolic profile. Interestingly, three dietary patterns were identified: “vegetarian,” “omnivore” and “Western.” The key finding was the overall positive impact of the “vegetarian” pattern in BD, which was associated with reduced depression scores, better psychosocial functioning, and perceived quality of life, decreased body mass index, cholesterol, LDL and diastolic blood pressure. Nuts consumption was associated with a better metabolic profile.

Conclusions

A vegetarian diet pattern was associated with both, better clinical and metabolic parameters, in patients with BD. Future studies should prioritize prospective and randomized designs to determine causal relationships, and potentially inform clinical recommendations.
Antipolitical class bias in corruption sentencing
Authors: Doria Vilaça Luiz , Morucci Marco , Paniagua Victoria
Published: July 2024

Are corruption trials that involve the highest ranks in the public sphere and large private companies biased against some groups? Existing research predominantly focuses on corruption prosecutions of politicians, leaving unresolved the extent to which judges apply differential treatment when convicting and sentencing the political class compared to other defendants, including those in the private sector. To address this gap, we investigate judicial bias within Brazil's famous “Operação Lava Jato,” the largest corruption investigation carried out in history. Leveraging an original database that traces the trajectory of the universe of the 3154 cases of Lava Jato, we show that judges' sentencing decisions were not governed by a partisan logic. Instead, judges were more inclined to impose longer prison times and higher fines to elected politicians when compared to all other defendants, particularly those from the private sector. We interpret these findings as evidence of antipolitical class bias.
Effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass on body composition
Authors: Sivakumar Jonathan , Chen Qianyu , Chong Lynn , Read Matthew , Ward Salena , Winter Nicole , Sutherland Tom R. , Hii Michael W.
Published: July 2024

Background

There is limited data with respect to body composition changes for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The objective of this study was to analyse changes in body composition between these two procedures during the first year after bariatric surgery.

Methods

A prospective study was performed in patients undergoing bariatric surgery at two tertiary hospitals between 2017 and 2023. Body composition was assessed with dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry immediately before surgery, and at 1‐, 6‐, 12‐, 18‐ and 24‐months post‐operatively, with a subgroup analysis performed for patients who undertook a scan at 18‐ and 24‐months. Total weight loss (TWL), body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), lean body mass (LBM) and bone mineral content (BMC) parameters were compared between SG and RYGB.

Results

Forty‐five patients were included in this series (SG n = 30, RYGB n = 15). There was a significant reduction in mean %TWL of 26.94 ± 8.86% and mean BMI of 11.12 ± 3.70 kg/m2 over 12‐months. LBM accounted for 17.8% of TWL over 12‐months, SG and RYGB did not differ in terms of loss of FM or LBM. For both procedures, the loss of LBM appeared to plateau at 6‐months post‐operatively. The only statistically significant finding between the two procedures was that RYGB resulted in an additional 0.06 kg loss compared with SG.

Conclusion

SG and RYGB have been shown to have comparable weight loss and body composition changes in the short‐to‐medium term following surgery. LBM reduction was most significant in the early post‐operative period across the entire cohort.
Our research path toward the restoration of natural sensations in hand prostheses
Authors: Micera Silvestro , Shokur Solaiman
Published: July 2024

The human hand, with its intricate sensory capabilities, plays a pivotal role in our daily interactions with the world. This remarkable organ possesses a wide range of natural sensors that enrich our experiences, enabling us to perceive touch, position, and temperature. These natural sensors work in concert to provide us with a rich sensory experience, enabling us to distinguish between various textures, gauge the force of our grip, determine the position of our fingers without needing to see them, perceive the temperature of objects we come into contact with or detect if a cloth is wet or dry. This complex sensory system is fundamental to our ability to manipulate objects, explore our surroundings, and interact with the world and people around us. In this article, we summarize the research performed in our laboratories over the years and our findings to restore both touch, position, and temperature modalities. The combination of intraneural stimulation, sensory substitution, and wearable technology opens new possibilities for enhancing sensory feedback in prosthetic hands, promising improved functionality and a closer approximation to natural sensory experiences for individuals with limb differences.
Fellow eye data for intraocular lens calculation in eyes undergoing combined phacovitrectomy
Authors: Kaiser Klemens Paul , Bucur Julian , Jandewerth Tyll , Kohnen Thomas , Lwowski Christoph
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate whether the intraocular lens (IOL) calculation of the fellow eye (FE) can be used in eyes undergoing combined phacovitrectomy.

Methods

In this retrospective, consecutive case series, we enrolled patients who underwent combined phacovitrectomy with silicone oil removal and IOL implantation at the Goethe‐University. Preoperative examinations included biometry (IOLMaster 700; Carl Zeiss). We used the IOL calculation of the FE (FE group) to calculate the prediction error compared with the IOL calculation using only the axial length (AL) of the FE (AL‐FE group), as well as using the AL of the operated eye (OE group) in addition to the measurable biometric parameters. IOL calculation was performed using the Barrett Universal II formula. We compared the mean (MAE) and median absolute prediction error (MedAE) with each other. Furthermore, the number of eyes with ±0.50, ±1.00 and ±2.00 dioptres (D) deviation from the target refraction was compared.

Results

In total, 79 eyes of 79 patients were included. MedAE was lowest in the OE group (0.41 D), followed by FE group (1.00 D) and AL‐FE group (1.02 D). Comparison between the AL‐FE and FE groups showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.712). Comparing eyes within ±0.50 D of the target refraction, the OE group (63.3%) performed best, followed by the AL‐FE group (27.8%) and the FE group (26.6%).

Conclusion

Our results indicate no clinically relevant difference between using the IOL calculation of the FE versus using only the AL of the FE in addition to the measurable parameters for the IOL calculation. A two‐step procedure should always be strived for.
The long‐term impact of household debts on household consumption
Authors: Xie Zhuyun , Xie Yuzhe , Liu Yue , Xu Guoliang , Xu Biao
Published: July 2024

Using panel data from 2012 to 2018, this article investigates the long‐term impact of household debt on household consumption, which is very important to the sustainable development of economy. The result shows that total household debt has a significant crowding‐out impact on long‐term household consumption, whereas nonhousing debt has no significant effect on it. In addition, we also find that the debt of high‐asset families has a weaker impact on long‐term household consumption; the debt of rural families, however, has a greater crowding‐out effect, which means that increasing rural families' leverage will have a greater negative impact on household consumption. Finally, household debt's negative effect on long‐term consumption was not found in older families, whereas it is found at significant level in middle‐aged families. The above results have important implications for China's policy to stimulate consumption and promote sustainable economic development.
Comparison of holmium:yttrium‐aluminium‐garnet (YAG), thulium fiber laser, and pulsed thulium:YAG lasers on soft tissue: an ex vivo study
Authors: Kutchukian Stessy , Chicaud Marie , Berthe Laurent , Coste Frédéric , Lapouge Pierre , Alshehhi Hussa , Buob David , Traxer Olivier , Panthier Frédéric , Doizi Steeve
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To assess laser–tissue interactions through ablation, coagulation, and carbonisation characteristics in a non‐perfused porcine kidney model between three pulsed lasers: holmium (Ho): yttrium‐aluminium‐garnet (YAG), thulium fiber laser (TFL), and pulsed thulium (p‐Tm):YAG.

Materials and Methods

A 150‐W Ho:YAG, a 60‐W TFL, and a 100‐W p‐Tm:YAG lasers were compared. The laser settings that can be set identically between the three lasers and be clinically relevant for prostate laser enucleation were identified and used on fresh, unfrozen porcine kidneys. Laser incisions were performed using stripped laser fibers of 365 and 550 μm, set at distances of 0 and 1 mm from the tissue surface at a constant speed of 2 mm/s. Histological analysis evaluated shape, depth, width of the incision, axial coagulation depth, and presence of carbonisation.

Results

Incision depths, widths, and coagulation zones were greater with Ho:YAG and p‐Tm:YAG lasers than TFL. Although no carbonisation was found with the Ho:YAG and p‐Tm:YAG lasers, it was common with TFL, especially at high frequencies. The shapes of the incisions and coagulation zones were more regular and homogeneous with the p‐Tm:YAG laser and TFL than with Ho:YAG laser. Regardless of the laser used, short pulse durations resulted in deeper incisions than long pulse durations. Concerning the distance, we found that to be effective, TFL had to be used in contact with the tissue. Finally, 365‐μm fibers resulted in deeper incisions, while 550‐μm fibers led to wider incisions and larger coagulation zones.

Conclusion

Histological analysis revealed greater tissue penetration with the p‐Tm:YAG laser compared to the TFL, while remaining less than with Ho:YAG. Its coagulation properties seem interesting insofar as it provides homogeneous coagulation without carbonisation, while incisions remained uniform without tissue laceration. Thus, the p‐Tm:YAG laser appears to be an effective alternative to Ho:YAG and TFL lasers in prostate surgery.
Repurposing cyclovirobuxine D as a novel inhibitor of colorectal cancer progression via modulating the CCT3/YAP axis
Authors: Liu Yiman , Chen Lu , Wang Jinghui , Bao Xiaomei , Huang Jiayan , Qiu Yuling , Wang Tao , Yu Haiyang
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks second in mortality worldwide and requires effective and affordable remedies. Cyclovirobuxine D (CVB‐D) is the main effective component of Huangyangning tablet, an approved traditional patent medicine, which is mainly used for cardiovascular treatment. As a multibioactive natural compound, CVB‐D possesses underlying anticancer activities.

Experimental Approach

Cell viability and clone‐forming ability were determined in human CRC lines. Western blot, immunofluorescence assay, transmission electron microscopy and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐Gal) staining were utilized to investigate cell autophagy and senescence. The molecular mechanisms were explored by virtual prediction and experimental validation. Patient‐derived xenograft (PDX), dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS), and azomethane (AOM)/DSS mouse models were employed for in vivo studies.

Key Results

CVB‐D inhibited the growth and development of advanced CRC cells / mice by inducing autophagic and senescent activities through the chaperonin containing TCP1 subunit 3 (CCT3)/yes‐associated protein (YAP) axis. CVB‐D acted as a promising inhibitor of CCT3 by interacting with its ATP site. In PDX tumours, CVB‐D showed potential therapeutic effects by targeting CCT3. Treatment with CVB‐D alleviated the mouse model of colitis induced by DSS and attenuated AOM/DSS‐induced formation of adenomatous polyps by its action on CCT3.

Conclusions and Implications

Our study has provided a scientific basis for the suggestion that CVB‐D may be recognized as a prospective drug candidate for the therapy of CRC in patients.
Memory inflation: Beyond the acute phase of viral infection
Authors: Li Yanfei , Xiao Jie , Li Chen , Yang Mu
Published: July 2024

Memory inflation is confirmed as the most commonly dysregulation of host immunity with antigen‐independent manner in mammals after viral infection. By generating large numbers of effector/memory and terminal differentiated effector memory CD8+ T cells with diminished naïve subsets, memory inflation is believed to play critical roles in connecting the viral infection and the onset of multiple diseases. Here, we reviewed the current understanding of memory inflated CD8+ T cells in their distinct phenotypic features that different from exhausted subsets; the intrinsic and extrinsic roles in regulating the formation of memory inflation; and the key proteins in maintaining the expansion and proliferation of inflationary populations. More importantly, based on the evidences from both clinic and animal models, we summarized the potential mechanisms of memory inflation to trigger autoimmune neuropathies, such as Guillain‐Barré syndrome and multiple sclerosis; the correlations of memory inflation between tumorigenesis and resistance of tumour immunotherapies; as well as the effects of memory inflation to facilitate vascular disease progression. To sum up, better understanding of memory inflation could provide us an opportunity to beyond the acute phase of viral infection, and shed a light on the long‐term influences of CD8+ T cell heterogeneity in dampen host immune homeostasis.