bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How NFTs contribute to consumers’ purchase intention towards luxury fashion physical products
Authors: Zhang Liufang , Phang Ing Grace
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of non-fungible tokens (NFTs’) characteristics on Chinese consumers’ purchase intention towards luxury fashion physical products. It also investigates the mediating role of perceived hedonic value and moderating role of perceived NFT–physical product fit during the buying process.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model combining Stimuli–Organism–Response Model and Theory of Consumption Value was established. A purposive sampling method was adopted to collect data from luxury fashion consumers aged 21–41 who lived in four Tier 1 cities in China. Structural equation modelling and SmartPLS 4.0 were utilized to analyse the 304 valid questionnaires collected.

Findings

The study’s findings indicate that luxury fashion NFTs with four characteristics (NFT scarcity, NFT exclusivity, NFT design aesthetic and NFT novelty) affect Chinese consumers’ purchase intention towards luxury fashion physical products positively, with perceived hedonic value mediating these relationships. Further, perceived NFT–physical product fit moderates the relationship between perceived hedonic value and purchase intention.

Originality/value

This study bridges a gap in investigating the interplay between NFTs as intangible collectibles and tangible products, by stressing the significant role played by NFTs in influencing the purchase intention of luxury fashion products. This paper contributes to an understanding of consumers’ psychological responses and behaviours towards NFTs, providing a new perspective in the study of luxury fashion NFTs in the context of marketing strategy and consumption.
Crafting food destination image in the social media age: dynamics of consumption, experience and culture differences
Authors: Ibrahim Muhamad Aizuddin , Wan Mohd Zain Wan Mohd Adzim , Mior Shariffuddin Nur Shahirah , Azinuddin Muaz , Mohd Salim Muhammad Nur Hidayat , Zainul Nur Hanifa
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study investigates how tourists’ local food consumption value, local food experiential value and food culture differences influence food destination image, with food destination attractiveness acting as the mediator. The moderating role of social media influencers is also analysed within this interrelationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative research design and purposive sampling to collect data. Partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the research hypotheses, with 312 food tourists participating.

Findings

The results indicate that tourists’ local food consumption value, tourists’ local food experiential value and tourists’ food culture differences positively influence food destination attractiveness, which, in turn, mediates their impact on food destination image. However, the moderating role of social media influencers has a significant but negative effect on the relationship between food destination attractiveness and food destination image.

Practical implications

The research findings indicate that, by considering factors such as overall consumption experiences, cultural differences and social media management, destination stakeholders can capitalise on local food to enhance destination attractiveness and image significantly.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the significance of food consumption experiences and their values in tourism while highlighting the critical role of local food culture differences in enhancing each destination’s attractiveness and image. Additionally, it emphasises the subtle influence of social media influencers in promoting destinations, particularly within the context of food tourism.
Organizational learning amidst a crisis: lessons from the biopharmaceutical sector during COVID-19
Authors: Tuazon Gerson , Sun John Peikang , Bhardwaj Varun , Wolfgramm Rachel
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to investigate the impact of affective and emotional experiences on organizational learning in highly dynamic and chaotic environments, specifically in the context of the COVID-19 crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an intensive 12-month inductive study, 24-project managers and 16 team members from biopharmaceutical organizations were interviewed and a thematic analysis was conducted.

Findings

Three themes emerged from the findings: (1) developing affective maturity as a socio-emotional resource, (2) mixed-motive emotional dynamics and (3) meaning-oriented organizational identification and commitment. The context of the COVID-19 crisis provided an unconventional performance environment.

Research limitations/implications

Our study has several limitations, offering avenues for future research. Firstly, our focus on biopharmaceutical organizations, with their unique socio-cultural influences and management styles, may limit the generalizability of our findings to other sectors and institutional contexts. However, regulatory mechanisms in this sector may align with knowledge-based sectors, emphasizing the influence of organizational values and best practices. Secondly, our reliance on a posteriori interview data limits real-time observation of organizational learning (OL) processes. Future research could employ diverse data sources and survey methods for corroboration. Additionally, cross-cultural studies might explore how different societies respond to crises. Multi-level perspectives could also enhance understanding of affective experiences and their impact on OL outcomes.

Originality/value

The study contributes new insights into OL through its focus on how affective experiences and affective organizing efforts shape OL. We offer a novel and emergent theoretical model of OL in the context of trauma which has implications for organizations particularly in the areas of information processing and decision-making.
Evaluation of novel 3D printed foam patterns for rapid investment casting based on fused filament fabrication
Authors: Fedorov Konstantin , Ravindran Comondore , Fayazbakhsh Kazem
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of three-dimensional (3D) printed foam polylactic acid (PLA) patterns in reducing ceramic shell stresses and cracking during burnout in the rapid investment casting (RIC) process to improve casting yield and dimensional tolerances.

Design/methodology/approach

Cylindrical and step-wedge patterns were 3D printed using foam PLA feedstock and compared with patterns from plain PLA and Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB). The patterns were shelled using ceramic slurry and investment cast in A356.1 aluminum alloy. Shell cracking and dimensional tolerances of resulting castings were assessed. Additionally, a complex component was 3D printed, laser-scanned, then cast and rescanned to evaluate dimensional accuracy. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was conducted on cylindrical geometries to analyze internal mold pressure because of thermal stresses during burnout.

Findings

The foam PLA for all patterns produced no shell cracking during both ramp and flash burnouts. Castings made from foam PLA patterns showed improved dimensional tolerances and a narrower error distribution in GD&T analysis compared to those made from PLA and PVB. FEA results indicated that the thermomechanical properties of foam PLA reduce internal mold pressure by over 90%, which decreased internal shell stresses.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel application of 3D printed foam PLA feedstock in the RIC process as a pattern material. This study demonstrates that foam PLA patterns effectively eliminate shell cracking during burnout and enhance dimensional accuracy. The findings of this study offer a new approach for improving dimensional tolerances and casting yield in RIC, which has not been previously explored.
Structural dimensions and scale development of research motivation among master’s students in the humanities and social sciences
Authors: Ren Xiaobin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to delve into the multidimensional structure of research motivation among master’s students in the humanities and social sciences and to develop an accurate tool for measuring their motivational levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used semistructured in-depth interviews with 21 master’s students from the humanities and social sciences. Grounded theory analysis was used to identify key dimensions of research motivation. An initial questionnaire with 24 items was developed based on the findings, which was then revised by experts and master’s students. The modified questionnaire was validated among 283 master’s students in Chinese universities. Further validation was conducted with 319 samples to assess reliability and model fit.

Findings

This study identified five key dimensions of research motivation: subjective norms, self-realization, emotional interest, social interaction and cognitive value. These dimensions were used to construct a research motivation model. The final validated questionnaire, containing 21 items, demonstrated good reliability and model fit, making it a robust tool for assessing research motivation in this specific group.

Originality/value

This study contributes to developing a tailored measurement tool of research motivation specifically for master’s students in the humanities and social sciences. It provides valuable insights for graduate education stakeholders, including educators, advisors and graduate management departments, by offering a deeper understanding of the motivational factors driving students’ research engagement and academic development.
A phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled trial of tapinarof cream in Japanese pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Igarashi Atsuyuki , Tsuji Gaku , Murata Ryusei , Fukasawa Shuichi , Yamane Satoshi
Published: December 2024

Tapinarof is a nonsteroidal, topical, aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in Japanese patients aged ≥12 years. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of tapinarof in Japanese pediatric patients aged 2 to 11 years with AD in a phase 2, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled trial. Eligible patients (N = 121) were randomized 1:1:1 to receive tapinarof cream 0.5%, tapinarof cream 1%, or vehicle cream once daily for 8 weeks. At week 8, the least‐squares mean percent change from baseline in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score (the primary endpoint) was −81.29% in the tapinarof 0.5% group, −77.62% in the tapinarof 1% group, and − 18.56% in the vehicle group. Reductions in EASI score at week 8 were significantly greater in the tapinarof groups than in the vehicle group (p < 0.0001 for both comparisons). The proportion of patients with ≥75% improvement from baseline in EASI score at week 8 was 77.5% in the tapinarof 0.5% group, 70.7% in the tapinarof 1% group, and 15.0% in the vehicle group. The proportion of patients who achieved an Investigator's Global Assessment score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) with ≥2‐grade improvement from baseline at week 8 was 32.5% in the tapinarof 0.5% group, 43.9% in the tapinarof 1% group, and 17.5% in the vehicle group. No treatment‐related serious adverse events (AEs) were reported; all of the AEs were mild or moderate. Common AEs in tapinarof‐treated patients included gastroenteritis, application site irritation, and nasopharyngitis. The incidence of trial discontinuations due to AEs was low in tapinarof‐treated patients (one patient for each strength). In summary, both strengths of tapinarof cream demonstrated greater efficacy than vehicle cream and were well tolerated in Japanese pediatric patients with AD.
“Handle With Care”: Consequences of Different Removal Pressures on Population Growth of the Invasive Beaver in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Authors: González‐Calderón Alvaro , Cavia Regino , Schiavini Adrián
Published: December 2024

The population regulation of animals depends on fertility and survivorship. Hunting can affect population growth through changes in reproduction and survivorship. Understanding these changes in vital rates is crucial for the control of invasive mammals. With the objective to assess the influence of different population removal pressures on the finite population growth rate (𝝀) of an invasive mammal, this research used demographic data estimated from 922 invasive beavers (Castor canadensis) eradicated from seven areas from Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Areas were classified into four removal pressures: higher, high‐intermediate, low‐intermediate, and lower removal pressure. The hypothesis states that the higher removal pressure produces higher population growth and resilience. Leslie matrix models were used to estimate 𝝀, generation time, damping ratio, stable age distribution, reproductive value, and the sensitivity–elasticity of survivorship and fertility of the females for each removal pressure. The 𝝀 and damping ratio increased with the removal pressure, as expected; the inverse occurred with the generation time. The survivorship of the younger age classes was the most sensitive and elastic vital rate regardless of removal pressure, followed by the breeding onset. The fertility was less relevant on 𝝀. The beaver population would depend more on the survival of kits, 1‐year‐olds, and subadults, than the number of offspring produced. A management strategy is proposed focusing on affecting the survivorship of younger age classes, eliminating first the adult animals and then the younger beavers.
Understanding the effects of alcohol policies on treatment admissions and birth outcomes among young pregnant people
Authors: Berglas Nancy F. , Thomas Sue , Treffers Ryan , Trangenstein Pamela J. , Subbaraman Meenakshi S. , Roberts Sarah C. M.
Published: December 2024

Background

This study examines whether state‐level alcohol policy types in the United States relate to substance use disorder treatment admissions and birth outcomes among young pregnant and birthing people.

Methods

We used data from the Treatment Episode Data Set: Admissions (TEDS‐A) and Vital Statistics birth data for 1992–2019. We examined 16 state‐level policies, grouped into three types: youth‐specific, general population, and pregnancy‐specific alcohol policies. Using Poisson and logistic regression, we assessed policy effects for those under 21 (aged 15–20) and considered whether effects differed for those just over 21 (aged 21–24).

Results

Youth‐specific policies were not associated with treatment admissions or preterm birth. There were statistically significant associations between family exceptions to minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) policies and low birthweight, but findings were in opposite directions across possession‐focused and consumption‐focused (MLDA) policies and did not differentially apply to people 15–20 versus 21–24. Most pregnancy‐specific policies were not associated with treatment admissions, and none were significantly associated with birth outcomes. A few general population policies were associated with improved birth outcomes and/or increased treatment admissions. Specifically, both government spirits monopolies and prohibitions of spirits and heavy beer sales in gas stations were associated with decreased low birthweight among people 15–20 and among people 21–24. Effects of Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limits varied by age, with slight reductions in adverse birth outcomes among people 15–20, as BAC limits get stronger, but slight increases for those 21–24. Although treatment admissions rates across ages were similar when BAC limits were in place, treatment admissions were greater for pregnant people 21–24 than for 15–20 when there were no BAC limits.

Conclusions

General population policies also appear effective for reducing the adverse effects of drinking during pregnancy for young people, including those under 21. Policies that target people based on age or pregnancy status appear less effective.
Prevalence of adults with stimulant misuse and/or stimulant use disorder in Massachusetts, USA, 2014–2021
Authors: Barocas Joshua A. , Erdman Elizabeth A. , Westfall Matthew Y. , Christine Paul J. , Bernson Dana , Villani Jennifer , Doogan Nathan J. , White Laura , Walley Alexander Y. , Bettano Amy , Wang Jianing
Published: December 2024

Background and aims

Stimulant‐involved overdose deaths are increasing throughout the United States. Because stimulant misuse (i.e. taking a prescribed medicine not as directed) and stimulant use disorder contribute to the surging number of stimulant‐related deaths, knowing the prevalence of stimulant misuse and use disorder is important. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of stimulant misuse and/or use disorder in Massachusetts from 2014 to 2021.

Design, setting and participants

This was a cohort study using a multiple systems estimation approach (previously known as ‘capture–recapture’), using multiple individually linked epidemiological data sources, located in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 2014–2021. People aged 18–64 years from administrative databases were linked at the individual level and included in the analysis.

Measurements

Measurements included known and estimated counts of people with stimulant misuse and/or use disorder (as defined in each individual database) as well as total count and prevalence in Massachusetts. We performed both a stratified analysis using log‐linear models to estimate the unknown population with stimulant misuse/use disorder and a single model analysis in which demographics were used as covariates. Uncertainty is characterized using 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) on the total counts and prevalence estimates.

Findings

The number of known individuals increased during the study period from 31 037 in 2014 to 42 612 in 2021. Using the multiple systems estimation approach, the estimated prevalence of underlying stimulant misuse and/or use disorder population ranged from 4.1 to 7.1% during the study period in the stratified analysis and 4.2 to 6.8% in the single model. By race, the highest prevalence estimates were among the Black non‐Hispanic population, which showed a prevalence of up to 14.5% (95% CI = 14.32%, 14.57%) in 2021.

Conclusions

The estimated prevalence of stimulant misuse and/or use disorder in Massachusetts from 2014 to 2021 ranged from 4% to nearly 7% of the population. People from racial minorities appear to be disproportionately affected compared with the white non‐Hispanic population. The unknown population accounted for large proportions of the total estimated population.
The validity of teledentistry examinations during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Mahony T , George A , Kezhekkekara SG , Villarosa A , Friel C , Yaacoub A
Published: December 2024

Background

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, non‐urgent dental treatments were deferred. To identify and prioritize urgent dental patients, teledentistry was implemented across NSW public dental services. This study aimed to establish the validity of teledentistry examinations to provide a clinical diagnosis compared to face‐to‐face, clinical examination.

Methods

A retrospective review using convenience sampling was used to source clinical data from a public dental service for two periods in 2020 and 2021. Researchers compared the diagnoses identified from teledentistry consultations with follow‐up face‐to‐face consultations, diagnoses were grouped into 14 sub‐categories that broadly covered common oral health conditions and pathologies. Sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV were calculated.

Results

The study included 1965 patients who underwent teledentistry followed by face‐to‐face consultations, with a mean age of 47.79 ± 21.92 years. Teledentistry showed high specificity ranging from 74.08% to 99.95% while the sensitivity ranged from 18.75% to 100%. The highest specificity (99.90%) was noted for diagnosing orthodontic concerns. The lowest specificity was observed for irreversible pulpal diseases at 74.08%.

Conclusion

Teledentistry has a role in public dental services, diagnosing various dental conditions and identifying patient acuity. It can provide patients with oral health information/advice and ensures effective use of emergency appointments within public dental services.
The Safety and Anti‐Reflex Effect of Robotic Double‐Tract Reconstruction After Proximal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Inokuchi Mikito , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Ogo Taichi , Masuda Taiki , Nagano Hiroto , Irie Takumi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Double‐tract reconstruction (DTR) is one of the major procedures following proximal gastrectomy (PG) with anti‐reflex function for the esophagus. Although many studies demonstrated the feasibility of laparoscopic DTR, there is a lack of research on robotic DTR. We aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of robotic DTR following PG.

Methods

Esophagojejunostomy was performed with a robotic stapler under endoscopic observation using the TilePro function of the Davinci Xi surgical system. The gastrojejunostomy procedure slightly differed depending on the size of the remnant stomach. Along with short‐term surgical outcomes, long‐term outcomes were compared based on the size of the remnant stomach.

Result

Thirty patients underwent robotic DTR. The median value of operative bleeding was 10 mL, although the median operative and reconstruction times were 398 and 119 min, respectively. Anastomotic complications were absent, and reflux esophagitis was not observed endoscopically 1 year after operation. Body weight loss, symptoms, and blood test findings did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Robotic DTR may be a safe and favorable procedure in terms of the postoperative course and incidence of reflux esophagitis.
CSNK2B Mutation: A Rare Cause of IGHD
Authors: Aouchiche Karine , Romanet Pauline , Barlier Anne , Brue Thierry , Pertuit Morgane , Reynaud Rachel , Saveanu Alexandru
Published: December 2024

Objective

Poirier‐Bienvenu neurodevelopmental syndrome (POBINDS) is a rare neurodevelopmental syndrome, resulting from germline heterozygous CSNKB2 pathogenic variants. The main presentations are severe epilepsy, delayed psychomotor development, and/or profound intellectual disability. More recently, CSNK2B pathogenic variants have been reported in patients with mild intellectual disability and no history of epileptic symptoms. Short stature is present in 66% of patients, in half of these cases due to proven growth hormone deficiency.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed through a French genomic program for a patient with isolated growth hormone deficiency after negative next generation sequencing (NGS) results. NGS panel analysis of CSNK2B and genes involved in isolated growth hormone deficiency (IGHD) was performed in 44 patients from the Genhypopit network (n = 2144) with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and intellectual disability (ID) or epilepsy and in a convenience cohort of 68 GHD patients.

Results

We present the first case of POBINDS presenting mainly as growth delay due to GHD. Genome analysis revealed a de novo pathogenic variant in the translation initiation codon of CSNK2B (c.1 A > G, p.(Met1?)). The patient had mild intellectual disability and subsequent analysis of the patient's clinical history revealed that he had had febrile convulsions, compatible with POBINDS. No CSNK2B pathogenic variants were identified among the 44 selected patients with GHD and ID or epilepsy, or in a convenience cohort of 68 patients with GHD.

Conclusion

Although rare, pediatricians should be aware that POIBNDS syndrome may present as IGHD with mild ID.
Talking Fanart: Small Stories About Drawings and Games
Authors: Aarsand Pål
Published: December 2024

The present paper investigates small stories of Minecraft fanart as a part of children's gaming practices. The data consists of interviews with ten Swedish children between 10 and 18 years old about the creation of digital drawings. Taking an ethnomethodological and conversation analytical approach paper directs attention to how Finley talks about and displays fanart as a practice that is composed of knowledge and skills from various metagame activities and fields of knowledge. It is shown how Finley demonstrates advanced and systematic ways of talking about drawings and explains how to see and understand them.
The Orange Ribbon and the Pitiful Child: Investigating Child Abuse, Family Normativity and the Welfare State in Japan
Authors: Chapman Christopher
Published: December 2024

For over 15 years the Japanese government has promoted a national campaign on child abuse awareness and tasked authorities with addressing rising child abuse reports. With an orange ribbon as its symbol, a key aspect of this campaign, alongside casework, is the creation and circulation of visual‐discursive representations of abused children. Drawing on 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork on child protection practice, this paper contextualises the social construction of child abuse by critiquing the cultural and technical logics of abuse and protection discourse. Appeals to vulnerability, rights and duty bridge public and expert fields and position an image of pity as a call to action that drives child abuse prevalence as well as enduring dispositions by the state towards intrafamily normativity and a minimalist welfare state.
Influence of Implant Component Materials on Peri‐Implant Soft Tissue Healing: A Comparative Histological and Immunohistochemical Study in Humans
Authors: Liegeois Lemmy , Borie Manon , Lecloux Geoffrey , Van Hede Dorien , Lambert France
Published: December 2024

Background

Recently, the importance of peri‐implant soft tissue integration quality has been recognised as an essential factor in the long‐term success of dental implant rehabilitation.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of three materials commonly used in implant dentistry, namely titanium (Ti), dental adhesive resin (Re) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK), on the peri‐implant soft tissues.

Methods

In this clinical randomised comparative study, 37 bone‐level implants were placed, and experimental transmucosal healing abutments made of different materials were randomly assigned to each implant. These abutments were removed together with the surrounding soft tissues after 8 weeks. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed to determine the presence and localisation of different immune cells. In addition, clinical and radiographic data were collected and peri‐implant bone remodeling was assessed.

Results

Compared to the Ti and PEEK groups, Re abutments revealed a higher infiltration of macrophages in the connective tissue (p = 0.04) and neutrophils in the adjacent epithelium (p = 0.03). In the Re abutments, peri‐implant bone remodeling was higher compared to the other groups (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The use of resin material as a transmucosal healing abutment should be carefully considered as it was associated with a higher presence of inflammatory cells at 8 weeks post‐implantation as well as superior bone remodeling compared to PEEK and Ti.
Relationship between wettability of cotton and dyeing properties of reactive dyes in a non‐aqueous medium system
Authors: Wang Zhengkai , Zhang Hongjuan , Dai Bingyu , Zhang Yanliang , Wang Jiping
Published: December 2024

Herein, we initially used sodium hydroxide to pretreat cotton fabric to obtain different wettability. Then the non‐aqueous dyeing system was applied to the eco‐friendly dyeing and washing process of cotton fibre. Meanwhile, Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and zeta potential analysis were performed to analyse the difference of cotton fibres before and after pretreatment. Furthermore, the effect of pretreatment on the adsorption behaviour was investigated by molecular dynamic (MD) simulations. Compared with control cotton, an approximate increase of 23.0% in the colour strength (K/S) value was achieved. Findings from FTIR and zeta potential showed that the number of available hydroxyl groups of cotton involved in the dyeing increased after pretreatment. MD simulations demonstrated reactive dye molecules showed a faster adsorption behaviour on the fibre surface with good wettability. It was attributed to the increased interaction energy between dye molecules and cotton fibres. Therefore, improving the cotton fabric's wettability is an effective way to improve the utilisation rate of reactive dyes in a non‐aqueous medium dyeing system.
Single‐Cell Multiomics Reveals TCR Clonotype‐Specific Phenotype and Stemness Heterogeneity of T‐ALL Cells
Authors: Sui Songnan , Wei Xiaolei , Zhu Yue , Feng Qiuyue , Zha Xianfeng , Mao Lipeng , Huang Boya , Lei Wen , Chen Guobing , Zhan Huien , Chen Huan , Feng Ru , Zeng Chengwu , Li Yangqiu , Luo Oscar Junhong
Published: December 2024

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T‐ALL) is a heterogeneous malignant disease with high relapse and mortality rates. To characterise the multiomics features of T‐ALL, we conducted integrative analyses using single‐cell RNA, TCR and chromatin accessibility sequencing on pre‐ and post‐treatment peripheral blood and bone marrow samples of the same patients. We found that there is transcriptional rewiring of gene regulatory networks in T‐ALL cells. Some transcription factors, such as TCF3 and KLF3, showed differences in activity and expression levels between T‐ALL and normal T cells and were associated with the prognosis of T‐ALL patients. Furthermore, we identified multiple malignant TCR clonotypes among the T‐ALL cells, where the clonotypes consisted of distinct combinations of the same TCR α and β chain per patient. The T‐ALL cells displayed clonotype‐specific immature thymocyte cellular characteristics and response to chemotherapy. Remarkably, T‐ALL cells with an orphan TCRβ chain displayed the strongest stemness and resistance to chemotherapy. Our study provided transcriptome and epigenome characterisation of T‐ALL cells categorised by TCR clonotypes, which may be helpful for the development of novel predictive markers to evaluate treatment effectiveness for T‐ALL.
Integrating fine‐scale behaviour and microclimate data into biophysical models highlights the risk of lethal hyperthermia and dehydration
Authors: Conradie Shannon R. , Wolf Blair O. , Cunningham Susan J. , Bourne Amanda , van de Ven Tanja , Ridley Amanda R. , McKechnie Andrew E.
Published: December 2024

Climate change threatens biodiversity by compromising the ability to balance energy and water, influencing animal behaviour, species interactions, distribution and ultimately survival. Predicting climate change effects on thermal physiology is complicated by interspecific variation in thermal tolerance limits, thermoregulatory behaviour and heterogenous thermal landscapes. We develop an approach for assessing thermal vulnerability for endotherms by incorporating behaviour and microsite data into a biophysical model. We parameterised the model using species‐specific functional traits and published behavioural data on hotter (maximum daily temperature, Tmax > 35°C) and cooler days (Tmax < 35°C). Incorporating continuous time‐activity focal observations of behaviour into the biophysical approach reveals that the three insectivorous birds modelled here are at greater risk of lethal hyperthermia than dehydration under climate change, contrary to previous thermal risk assessments. Southern yellow‐billed hornbills Tockus leucomelas, southern pied babblers Turdoides bicolor and southern fiscals Lanius collaris are predicted to experience a risk of lethal hyperthermia on ~ 24, 65 and 40 more days year−1, respectively, in 2100 relative to current conditions. Maintaining water balance may also become increasingly challenging. Babblers are predicted to experience a 57% increase (to ~186 days year−1) in exposure to conditions associated with net negative 24 h water balance in the absence of drinking, with ~ 86 of those days associated with a risk of lethal dehydration. Hornbills and fiscals are predicted to experience ~ 84 and 100 days year−1, respectively, associated with net negative 24 h water balance, with ≤ 20 of those days associated with a risk of lethal dehydration. Integrating continuous time‐activity focal data is vital to understand and predict thermal challenges animals likely experience. We provide a comprehensive thermal risk assessment and emphasise the importance of thermoregulatory and drinking behaviour for endotherm persistence in coming decades.
Ecological trait divergence over evolutionary time underlies the origin and maintenance of tropical spider diversity
Authors: Li Fengyuan , Jiang Tongyao , Zhang Wei , Li Shuqiang
Published: December 2024

Relative to its size, tropical Asia is likely to be the richest region in terms of biodiversity. However, the factors of species diversity formation and maintenance in Southeast (SE) Asia and neighboring regions remain poorly understood. Here we infer the evolutionary relationships within psilodercid spiders by incorporating fossil information into a robust, unprecedentedly complete species‐level phylogeny of 202 extant species to explore potential abiotic drivers and ecological features underlying their stable diversification history. The combination of extant and extinct historical biogeographic data indicates that in situ speciation is the predominant form of diversification in tropical Asia but diverse Cretaceous psilodercids in Myanmar ambers were replaced by other biogeographical lineages during the northward movements of the Burma Terrane. Furthermore, our diversification analyses show no diversification rate changes through time and across geographic space in this family, but the genus Althepus displays an accelerated rate of species diversification driven by the remarkable expansion of leg length. Trait evolution analysis shows that ecological trait divergence contributes to the diversification and accumulation of tropical spiders by facilitating species coexistence. These findings provide empirical evidence that the ecological trait divergence over evolutionary time scales is key to forming species diversity hotspots in SE Asia. Thus, this study integrating molecular evidence and paleontological interpretation provides a new framework for understanding the evolution of tropical species diversity.
Girdin deficiency causes developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with hippocampal sclerosis and interneuronopathy
Authors: Iida Machiko , Tanaka Motoki , Takagi Tsuyoshi , Matsuki Tohru , Kimura Kimihiro , Shibata Kazuki , Kobayashi Yohei , Mizutani Yuka , Kuwamura Haruki , Yamada Keitaro , Kitaura Hiroki , Kakita Akiyoshi , Sakakibara Mayu , Asai Naoya , Takahashi Masahide , Asai Masato
Published: December 2024

Objective

Loss‐of‐function mutations in the GIRDIN/CCDC88A gene cause developmental epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) in humans. However, its pathogenesis is largely unknown. Global knockout mice of the corresponding orthologous gene (gKOs) have a preweaning lethal phenotype with growth failure, preventing longitudinal analysis. We aimed to overcome this lethality and elucidate DEE pathogenesis.

Methods

We developed a novel lifelong feeding regimen (NLFR), which consists of providing mash food from postnatal day 14 (P14) until weaning (P28), followed by agar‐bound food exclusively after weaning. Videography, electroencephalography (EEG), and histological analyses were performed. Conditional Girdin/Ccdc88a knockout mice (cKOs) of variable lineages (Nestin, Emx1, or Nkx2‐1) were generated to identify the region responsible for epilepsy.

Results

Under the NLFR, gKOs survived beyond 1 year and displayed fully penetrant, robust epileptic phenotypes, including early‐onset (P22.3 in average) generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTCSs) (averaging eight per day), which were completely synchronized with fast rhythms on EEG, frequent interictal electroencephalographic spikes (averaging 430 per hour), and progressive deformation of visceral organs. In addition, gKOs had absence seizures, which were not always time‐locked to frequent spike waves on EEG. The frequent GTCSs and interictal spikes in gKOs were suppressed by known antiepileptic drugs. Histologically, bilateral hippocampi in gKOs exhibited congenital cornu‐ammonis splitting, granule cell dispersion, and astrogliosis. Furthermore, analysis of conditional knockouts using multiple Cre‐deleters identified a defect in the delivery of interneuron precursors from the medial ganglionic eminence into the hippocampal primordium during embryogenesis as a major cause of epileptogenesis.

Significance

These findings give rise to a new approach of lifelong caregiving to overcome the problem of preweaning lethality in animal models. We propose a useful model for studying DEE with hippocampal sclerosis and interneuronopathy. gKOs with NLFR combine the contradictory properties of robust epileptic phenotypes and long‐term survivability, which can be used to investigate spontaneous epileptic wave propagation and therapeutic intervention in hippocampal sclerosis.
Stereoelectroencephalographic thermocoagulation in FLNA‐positive heterotopia: Is it an effective treatment?
Authors: De Clerck Lucie , Pelliccia Veronica , Carron Romain , Trébuchon Agnès , Tassi Laura , Bartolomei Fabrice , Pizzo Francesca
Published: December 2024

Periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH) is a neuronal migration disorder often associated with drug‐resistant epilepsy. The epileptogenic zone network (EZN) in PVNH is generally large, contraindicating surgery. Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) can be proposed to map the EZN and perform radiofrequency thermocoagulation (THC) with an efficacy rate of approximately 65%. There are genetic forms of PVNH, particularly with mutations in the filamin A gene (FLNA). However, data on SEEG‐guided THC in these patients still have not been described. We report four patients with FLNA‐positive PVNH who underwent SEEG‐guided THC. All were women with several types of seizures and psychiatric comorbidities. EZN was extensive and often bilateral, including a part of the heterotopias. The outcomes of SEEG‐guided THC varied; two patients experienced significant seizure reduction and improvement in psychiatric symptoms (Engel class I–II), one showed partial improvement (Engel class III), and one had no significant benefit (Engel class IV). Psychiatric comorbidities, including posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety, were present in all cases, with some patients showing symptom improvement alongside seizure reduction. Despite genetic origin, SEEG‐guided THC can be proposed in FLNA‐positive PVNH‐related epilepsy, although outcomes vary. The presence of FLNA mutations should not contraindicate surgical intervention but may influence the therapeutic response. Further research is needed to understand the impact of genetic variants on epilepsy outcome.
European defence integration after Trump's re‐election: A proposal to revive the European Defense Community Treaty and its legal feasibility
Authors: Fabbrini Federico
Published: December 2024

Donald Trump's re‐election as President of the United States and Russia's aggression of Ukraine pose unprecedented challenges to transatlantic relations and European security. The EU as it is is unprepared to take care of its defence. This article explores how the law can be activated creatively to achieve defence integration in Europe and proposes to revive the 1952 European Defence Community (EDC) Treaty. Specifically, the article claims that, in strictly legal terms, the EDC can be brought into operation today—simply with the ratification by two states: France and Italy—and provides comprehensive arguments from public international law, comparative law and domestic constitutional law to make the point. Needless to say, legal feasibility does not equate with political feasibility, and the article mentions several of the obstacles and challenges along this path. Yet, shedding light the EDC has two advantages. On the one hand, the article emphasises how the EDC—with a common army, funded by a common budget and governed by supranational institutions—constituted an articulated response to the problem of securing European security. On the other hand, it identifies a differentiated path to achieve greater European defence integration.
Identifying determinants of physical activity in older patients with musculoskeletal disorders undergoing rehabilitation: Comparison of two distinct models using structural equation modeling
Authors: Kanai Masashi , Yoshida Kazuki , Okada Hiroki , Ohtsubo Takuro , Ueno Katsuhiro , Nozoe Masafumi
Published: December 2024

Aim

Mobility restrictions cause older adults with musculoskeletal disorders to have lower levels of physical activity. However, the determinants of their physical activity during hospitalization are unclear. We aimed to compare two conceptual frameworks using structural equation modeling to identify factors influencing physical activity in older patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included older patients with musculoskeletal disorders at a single convalescent rehabilitation hospital. Physical activity was objectively measured using a triaxial accelerometer. We utilized structural equation modeling to contrast two conceptual frameworks: (i) the sarcopenia/nutrition/activities of daily living model, and (ii) the age‐related deconditioning/activities of daily living model. The models' goodness‐of‐fit was evaluated, including root mean square approximation error, goodness‐of‐fit index (GFI), adjusted GFI and Akaike information criterion.

Results

We enrolled 274 older patients (age 78.0 years; 42 men, 232 women) with musculoskeletal disorders. Among them, 123 (44.9%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia and 69 (25.2%) with malnutrition. The goodness‐of‐fit of the (ii) model (root mean square approximation error = 0.068, GFI = 0.958, adjusted GFI = 0.909, Akaike information criterion = 5780.875) was superior to the (i) model (root mean square approximation error = 0.080, GFI = 0.953, adjusted GFI = 0.887, Akaike information criterion = 5791.429).

Conclusions

We discovered that the age‐related deconditioning/activities of daily living model effectively explained physical activity in hospitalized older patients with musculoskeletal disorders. A comprehensive approach considering age‐related changes, such as sarcopenia and malnutrition, might offer a simpler and more effective framework for understanding and promoting physical activity in this demographic. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 160–166.
The Symphony of Evolution: Unraveling Infrastructure Public–Private Partnerships Collaboration Networks Through Participant Characteristics
Authors: Wu Guangdong , Zhou Kejia , Hu Zhibin , Wang Ge , Liu Bingsheng , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2024

Using collaborative governance theory and stochastic actor‐oriented models (SAOMs), this study examines the co‐evolution of networks and participant characteristics in 1505 infrastructure PPP projects involving 3225 participants across 35 large and medium‐sized Chinese cities. The results show that collaborative networks are highly structured and exhibit small‐world characteristics. Furthermore, in the evolving landscape of China's PPPs, the collaboration network has shifted into three governance patterns: government‐SOEs (State‐owned enterprises) driven, SOEs‐consulting driven, and SOEs dominant. In addition, results reveal that network evolution is promoted by transitive triads, the similarity of organizational size, and geographic proximity, while it is hindered by outdegree, similarities of organizational age and type. The findings provide insights for partner selection and the involvement of governments in public service delivery and the development of governance strategies.
Bleed treatment with eptacog beta (rFVIIa) results in a low incidence of rebleeding in adult and adolescent patients with haemophilia A or B with inhibitors
Authors: Dunn Amy , Dargaud Yesim , Abajas Yasmina , Carcao Manuel , Castaman Giancarlo , Giermasz Adam , Hermans Cédric , Jiménez‐Yuste Victor , Lewandowska Magdalena , Mahlangu Johnny , Meeks Shannon , Miesbach Wolfgang , Recht Michael , Salinas Vanessa , Chrisentery‐Singleton Tammuella , Bonzo Daniel , Mitchell Ian S. , Wilkinson Thomas A. , Young Guy
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Eptacog beta is a novel human recombinant FVIIa approved for use in the United States, European Union, United Kingdom and Mexico for the treatment and control of bleeding in patients with haemophilia A or B with inhibitors (≥12 years). It is also indicated for perioperative care in the same patient population in Europe and the United Kingdom.

Aim

To assess the incidence of rebleeding and review treatment outcomes in subjects with haemophilia with inhibitors enrolled in the phase 3 PERSEPT 1 clinical trial.

Methods

To treat mild/moderate bleeding episodes (BEs), subjects administered an initial 75  or 225µg/kg dose of eptacog beta, followed (if necessary) by additional 75µg/kg doses at predefined intervals until bleed control. This analysis used subject‐reported rebleeding to determine a rebleeding incidence for the first 24 h. Rebleeding through later timepoints was an exploratory, intention‐to‐treat analysis of bleed treatment data.

Results

Four hundred and sixty‐five BEs were analysed. Through 24 h, the proportion of rebleeds was 0% (initial 75µg/kg dose) and 0.5% (initial 225µg/kg dose). Through 48 h, the proportion of rebleeds was 3.2% (75µg/kg initial dose) and 5.6% (225µg/kg initial dose); the difference between initial dose strategies was not statistically significant. The majority of rebleeds were controlled with a single dose of eptacog beta and no subject who treated a rebleed required hospitalization.

Conclusion

Subjects with haemophilia with inhibitors who used eptacog beta to treat mild/moderate BEs experienced a low incidence of rebleeding. Rebleeds that did occur were effectively controlled with eptacog beta (median, one dose) without the need for hospitalization.
The Use of Arts‐Based Methods to Enhance Patient Engagement in Health Research
Authors: Phillips Emily K. , Chudyk Anna M. , Monnin Caroline , Schultz Annette S. H. , Arora Rakesh C. , Duhamel Todd A. , O'Keefe‐McCarthy Sheila
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Patient and care partner engagement in research (PER) is important in generating knowledge to improve healthcare. Arts‐based methods (ABM) use art in the research process to share aesthetic knowledge, which is knowledge that may be too complex to share only verbally. Together, PER and ABM are potentially synergistic, as both are participatory, problem‐focused, dialogic, and collaborative; yet little is known of the utility of ABM for PER.

Methods

A narrative review was performed to identify, collate, and summarize the ways ABM has been used with PER and share the impacts of ABM on PER. The databases CINAHL, Scopus, and PubMed were searched, and 15 articles were included.

Results

A wide variety of ABM were used for PER, with some studies using multiple ABMs. The use of ABM for PER was reported to be decolonizing, shifted power from researchers to people with lived experience, and reduced tokenism. People with lived experience shared their knowledge directly through their art, deepening the understanding of their emotions, feelings, and relationships.

Conclusion

Researchers should consider the benefits of the participatory nature of ABM and explore how to engage people with lived experience in their work beyond data collection. Researchers engaging people with lived experience should consider using ABM as a way to operationalize PER to elicit aesthetic knowledge and strengthen power equalization.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patients or members of the public contributed to this review due to a lack of funding to support their meaningful involvement.