bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prompt engineering – a disruption in information seeking?
Authors: Frederick Donna Ellen
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this column is to inform librarians and other information professionals about prompt engineering (PE) and to challenge them to consider how it relates to the work that they are doing and consider if it might enhance their current ability to serve users.

Design/methodology/approach

PE is a new job category in the fields of technology and artificial intelligence. Prompt engineers use various approaches to elicit the best possible outputs from large language module technologies such as ChatGPT. This column examines the various elements present in effective prompts and how the skills, knowledge and abilities relate to the work that librarians already do, where there are disruptions and how the field of library and information science may approach studying the emergence and effectiveness of PE in resolving information needs.

Findings

While PE shares many of the goals, procedures and skillsets that librarians already know and use, it is a disruption in information-seeking processes. It is a highly complex undertaking that requires a mix of knowledge, skills and abilities. If done well, PE will allow information seekers to achieve a whole new level of results both in terms of the information retrieved and the content that is produced based on that information.

Originality/value

Librarians are currently generally not considered to be prime candidates for PE positions. However, this column introduces the idea that many librarians already have the knowledge, skills, abilities and aptitude to do PE. This may be as prompt engineers or by integrating PE into their existing professional practice.
Integrating ESG and organisational resilience through system theory: the ESGOR matrix
Authors: Leoni Luna
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework that jointly considers Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors and organisational resilience (OR) components to ameliorate organisations' understanding of sustainability’s overall requirements and related decision-making processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper combines ESG and OR through a 3x3 conceptual matrix, where ESG factors are listed along the vertical axis and OR components along the horizontal axis. This results in nine quadrants, which have been read according to two arrangements: (1) static, looking at the specific characteristics of each single quadrant, and (2) dynamic, investigating the relationships between the different quadrants according to the system theory (ST) lens.

Findings

The integration between ESG and OR results in nine organisational typologies, each characterised by a specific focus: (1) green visioning, (2) eco ethos, (3) climate guard, (4) inclusive strategy, (5) empathy ethos, (6) community shield, (7) ethical blueprint, (8) integrity ethos and (9) compliance guard. These typologies and related focuses determine the different strategic options of organisations, the decision-making emphasis concerning ESG factors and OR components and the organisation’s behaviour concerning its internal and external environment. According to ST, the nine typologies interact with each other, emphasising the existence of interconnectedness, interdependence and cascading effects between ESG and OR.

Originality/value

The paper represents a unique attempt to interrelate ESG factors and OR components according to a ST lens, emphasising the dynamic nature of their interactions and organisations’ need for continuous adaptation and learning to make decisions that create sustainable long-term value.
Necessity the mother of (RE) invention: using positive autoethnography for trauma and loss
Authors: Broadway-Horner Matt
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of positive autoethnography for the consequences of conversion therapy. Life after conversion therapy is, for many, a life-changing episode, especially when combined with disfellowship. In recent years, positive autoethnography has grown substantially. The work of Tedeschi and Calhoun (2004), from the school of positive psychology, focuses on posttraumatic growth following a traumatic event or series of events.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative approach of positive autoethnography.

Findings

This innovative case study highlights personal struggles with grief, depression and suicidal ideation. In addition, the time elapsed has enabled a process to juggle with alternative ideas moving forward in salvaging a form of identity.

Research limitations/implications

Treatment as usual psychological therapies (TAUPT) provide many unhelpful triggers due to the same jargon used in both conversion therapy and TAUPT. Away from TAUPT, this writing exercise may help as a stand-alone post-conversion recovery process.

Practical implications

The post-conversion recovery process will offer much-needed help with only a few face-to-face meetings to aid the posttraumatic growth writing exercise.

Social implications

The suicide rates for sexual minority conversion therapy victims are eight times higher than those of other sexual minority groups and isolation levels. A single point of entry pathway for conversion therapy survivors is needed.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, the first of its kind to apply positive autoethnography using the model as a framework to understand the post-conversion therapy experience, looks for growth in five areas: relating to others, new possibilities, personal strength, spiritual change and appreciation of life.
Holistic entrepreneurial inventory: a framework for the integration of spirituality in entrepreneurial performance
Authors: Rosales Olimpia , Silveyra Geraldina
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the constructs of spirituality (SP) and entrepreneurial performance (EP) and their measurements to identify their connections. Attending to the needs of entrepreneurs to face the current global crisis, this research establishes a framework that integrates SP to enhance EP.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on a comprehensive literature review and a comparison between constructs to come across with the proposal of a conceptual framework.

Findings

For SP, spiritual well-being was found as a good measure which, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, has never been used in entrepreneurship. EP has been typically measured by economic indicators, but recently, noneconomic benefits and effects on stakeholders have also been considered, so an integrated approach is proposed. The main contribution is a framework called holistic entrepreneurial inventory (HEI), which integrates the main elements of the constructs in a matrix showing their interconnection. It is accompanied by a scorecard for entrepreneurs to identify strengths and weaknesses in SP and EP.

Research limitations/implications

This is a theoretical research and proposal; further empirical research could help confirm the present conceptual findings.

Practical implications

To help entrepreneurs identify the areas where they would like to improve, understanding the connection between SP and EP, which are dynamic states in constant change.

Originality/value

EP has been mainly focused on exogenous causes. The HEI scorecard may give entrepreneurs a different perspective from the innermost part of their being.
Contrasting heat tolerance of evergreen and deciduous urban woody species during heat waves
Authors: Zhang Haoping , Ning Qiurui , Li Qiang , Jin Yi , Cao Yu , Bakpa Emily Patience , Zhao Han , Song Jia , Ye Pengcheng , Wen Yin , Song Lingjie , Liu Hui
Published: April 2024

The increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves caused significant damages to urban woody species, and the different leaf structures between evergreen and deciduous species may be closely related to leaf heat tolerance. However, whether the different leaf structural traits of evergreen and deciduous plants contribute to their different responses under heat waves is still unclear.

During the record‐breaking and long‐lasting 2022 summer heat waves in China, we investigated the relationships between leaf thermal indices and leaf structural traits of 36 urban woody species in four cities along the Yangtze River.

We found that all the four thermal indices were significantly but weakly related with leaf damage status. The critical temperature that causes the initial 15% damage to photosystem II (Tcrit) may serve as a sensitive measure of heat tolerance. Evergreen species suffered less leaf damage during the heat waves and exhibited higher leaf heat tolerance, thicker leaves than deciduous species. Tcrit was significantly correlated with leaf mass per area, leaf thickness and thickness of spongy tissue.

Synthesis. Urban woody species with higher Tcrit, leaf mass per area and leaf thickness tend to be more tolerant to heat stress. This study provides insights for predicting leaf heat tolerance of urban woody plants in subtropical China and their physiological and ecological responses to severe heat waves.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Colorectal cancer cells with stably expressed SIRT3 demonstrate proliferating retardation by Wnt/β‐catenin cascade inactivation
Authors: Li Tianyu , Fan Leqi , Jia Yijiang , Xu Chen , Guo Wei , Wang Yuji , Li Ye
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a typical and lethal digestive system malignancy. In this study, we investigated the effect of sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) expression, a fidelity mitochondrial protein, on the proliferation of CRC cells and the mechanisms involved. Using the University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer Data Analysis Portal database and the Clinical Proteomic Tumour Analysis Consortium database, we discovered that low expression of SIRT3 in CRC was a negative factor for survival prognosis (P < .05). Meanwhile, SIRT3 expression was correlated with distant metastasis and tumour, node, metastasis stage of CRC patients (P < .05). Subsequently, we observed that CRC cells with stable SIRT3 expression exhibited a significant decrease in proliferative capacities both in vitro and in vivo, compared to their counterparts (P < .05). Further investigation using western blot, immunoprecipitation and TOPflash/FOPflash assay showed the mechanism of growth retardation of these cells was highly associated with the degradation of β‐catenin in cytosol, and the localization of β‐catenin/α‐catenin complex in the nucleus. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the inhibition of CRC cell proliferation by SIRT3 is closely associated with the inactivation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway.
Clonal genomic population structure ofBeauveria brongniartiiandBeauveria pseudobassiana: Pathogens of the common European cockchafer (Melolontha melolonthaL.)
Authors: Pedrazzini Chiara , Rehner Stephen A. , Strasser Hermann , Zemp Niklaus , Holderegger Rolf , Widmer Franco , Enkerli Jürg
Published: April 2024

Beauveria brongniartiiis a fungal pathogen that infects the beetleMelolontha melolontha, a significant agricultural pest in Europe. While research has primarily focused on the use ofB. brongniartiifor controllingM. melolontha, the genomic structure of theB. brongniartiipopulation remains unknown. This includes whether its structure is influenced by its interaction withM. melolontha, the timing of beetle‐swarming flights, geographical factors, or reproductive mode. To address this, we analysed genome‐wide SNPs to infer the population genomics ofBeauveriaspp., which were isolated from infectedM. melolonthaadults in an Alpine region. Surprisingly, only one‐third of the isolates were identified asB. brongniartii, while two‐thirds were distributed among cryptic taxa withinB. pseudobassiana, a fungal species not previously recognized as a pathogen ofM. melolontha. Given the prevalence ofB. pseudobassiana, we conducted analyses on both species. We found no spatial or temporal genomic patterns within either species and no correlation with the population structure ofM. melolontha, suggesting that the dispersal of the fungi is independent of the beetle. Both species exhibited clonal population structures, withB. brongniartiifixed for one mating type andB. pseudobassianadisplaying both mating types. This implies that factors other than mating compatibility limit sexual reproduction. We conclude that the population genomic structure ofBeauveriaspp. is primarily influenced by predominant asexual reproduction and dispersal.
Australian first home ownership assistance schemes: International comparison and assessment
Authors: Martin Chris , Pawson Hal
Published: April 2024

Australia, like most developed countries, has promoted homeownership as an express housing policy goal for many decades. Domestically and internationally, recent years have seen growing efforts to enhance access to owner‐occupation for prospective first home buyers (FHBs). FHB assistance takes many forms. Presenting a new typology of such measures, our multi‐method study investigates current approaches in Australia and in seven high‐income comparator countries. Australia stands out for its modern emphasis on demand‐side assistance (e.g., grants and tax concessions), rather than supply‐side measures (e.g., government‐developed housing for low‐cost sale). Lately, several Australian governments (federal and state) have diversified approaches to FHB assistance, particularly via shared equity and low‐deposit mortgage schemes, taking cues from international practice. While more administratively demanding, these types of assistance are considered attractive because they require little outlay or operate on a ‘revolving fund’ basis, with government potentially sharing capital gains. However, they potentially place governments even more among housing's ‘insiders’, with a material interest in continually rising prices.
The role of managerial hierarchy in the moral reasoning of local government managers
Authors: El Haber Nicole , Nagpal Swati
Published: April 2024

Falling public trust in Australia's institutions warrants revisiting how public sector managers approach ethical decision‐making. This study presents the findings of in‐depth interviews with 35 local government managers in Australia and seeks to understand how managerial hierarchy influences the moral reasoning of managers. Through the lens of social learning and moral development theoretical perspectives, the findings indicate that local government managers do engage in different types of moral reasoning when presented with hypothetical ethical dilemmas, and their managerial status plays a pronounced role in shaping the content of that reasoning. We also find support for differences in moral reasoning across gender, which appear more evident at lower levels of management. Through providing an in‐depth analysis of managerial hierarchy and ethical decision‐making, the findings from this study can be used to guide organisational and individual managers’ ethics training and development.

Points for practitioners

The declining public trust in public administrators warrants regular risk management audits of internal and external environments of public sector organisations to identify potential or existing ethical challenges that require a response.

Moral reasoning and ethical decision‐making are context specific and include the ethical climate of the organisation. We find support for the importance of organisational leadership visibly ‘walking the talk’ when it comes to ethics.

While management hierarchy is seen to influence moral reasoning, or the deliberations when arriving at a decision, there is widespread acceptance of the basic tenets of abiding by the law and being truthful. Therefore, organisational ethical policies and codes of conduct should clearly articulate the legal implications, and consequences of any breaches.

A one‐size‐fits‐all approach to ethics training is not advised. We find that moral reasoning differs with managerial experience. A case is made to account for training tailored at different managerial levels, along with scenario‐based training and mentoring from higher levels of management.
Organizational ambidexterity: A reconceptualization and research agenda for the VUCA international context
Authors: Fernández‐Pérez de la Lastra Susana , Sánchez‐Gardey Gonzalo
Published: April 2024

The literature confirms that organizational ambidexterity (OA) is the key to increasing an organization's prospects for survival and success in an increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous (VUCA) international environment. A critical review of this literature reveals that the conceptualization of OA is disorganized and ambiguous when it establishes and labels relevant aspects of this construct, such as its development and implementation. This study provides a conceptual framework for OA and its dimensions and explains the mechanisms for building and implementing OA. The most important contribution resides in providing research guidelines to improve the consistency and rigour of OA conceptualization in the VUCA international context. To develop this research agenda, we use the VUCA framework, which allows us to identify possible future research and the application of theories and methodologies not previously used. Thus, in general terms, to respond to volatility, studies must be carried out on the agility of organizations. For uncertainty, the topics of knowledge and information management are interesting. To respond to the complexity, topics on restructuring are interesting. And to avoid ambiguity, studies on experimentation would be ideal. Based on this generality, this study proposes multiple future lines of research.
Climate change disclosure and firm value in a frontier market: Exploring the determinants
Authors: Pradhan Rudra P. , Samarakoon S. M. R. K. , Maradana Rana P. , Sahoo Premjit
Published: April 2024

We examine the factors that influence climate change disclosure and its effects on firm value in the context of Sri Lanka. By leveraging data spanning 1031 firm‐year observations from 2017 to 2022, an innovative machine‐learning technique is employed to quantify the level of climate change disclosure within annual corporate reports. Our findings indicate that factors such as firm size, size of the board of directors, the presence of independent and non‐executive directors on the board, and gender diversity of the board positively impact the extent of climate change disclosure. Notably, CEO duality, where the CEO and chairman roles are held by the same individual, demonstrates a negative relationship with climate change disclosure, suggesting that distinct roles can enhance transparency. This underscores the significant role of robust corporate governance practices in promoting environmental transparency and accountability. Additionally, the paper further assesses the implications of climate change disclosure on firm value, revealing that enhanced transparency in climate change disclosure positively impacts firm value.
Exploring the nexus of globalization and natural resource scarcity in driving green technology innovation: Insights from advanced panel data techniques
Authors: Li Jianmin , Yahya Farzan , Waqas Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Green technology innovation (GTI) plays a pivotal role in improving environmental sustainability. Our study fills a significant research gap by investigating how globalization and natural resource depletion (NRD) impact eco‐innovation. Rooted in knowledge spillover and ecological modernization theories, we utilize advanced panel data techniques, an aspect underexplored in empirical studies. Our panel data span G20 countries from 1986 to 2019, further dissected into sub‐panels—BRICS (emerging economies) and G7 (advanced economies). Initial tests reveal cross‐sectional dependencies and slope heterogeneities across all panels, corroborated by Westerlund cointegration test indicating a long‐term equilibrium. Driscoll–Kraay estimator highlights that economic and social globalization significantly drive eco‐innovation, while political globalization deteriorates GTI. The effect of NRD is also negative for G20 and BRICS countries, while G7 economies exhibit lower vulnerability to NRD shocks. Long‐run estimates from CS‐ARDL underscore the positive role of economic globalization in both the short and long run, while the negative role of NRD remains persistent in the long run. Panel quantile regression results prove that the effect of globalization is asymmetric across GTI distribution and varying across underlying groups. NRD, while hindering progress at higher quantiles, supports eco‐innovation at lower quantiles of advanced economies. Panel threshold estimations confirm the positive influence of both globalization and NRD, particularly for highly eco‐innovative nations. These findings bear significant policy implications, charting a path toward sustainable economic growth through the widespread adoption of green technology.
Construct validity, reliability, and threshold value for treatment goals of the Thai version of the 12‐item Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease Questionnaire for patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Chiowchanwisawakit Praveena , Orawongpaisarn Annop , Katchamart Wanruchada
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the construct validity, reliability, and treatment goal threshold of a Thai‐language version of the 12‐item Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease (Thai‐PsAID) questionnaire in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved administering the proposed Thai‐PsAID to 117 Thai patients with PsA. Reliability was assessed by Cronbach's α test and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was assessed using Spearman correlation with clinical disease activity index for psoriatic arthritis (cDAPSA), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), EQ‐5D index, and the patient‐acceptable symptom state (PASS). The optimal cutoff score of the Thai‐PsAID for minimal disease activity (MDA) was determined by receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 49.5 years, 61 (52.1%) were female, and the median disease duration was 5 years. The median Thai‐PsAID score was 2.1, with a Cronbach's α coefficient of .95 and an ICC of 0.77. The mean time to complete the Thai‐PsAID was 2.1 min, with no missing data. The Thai‐PsAID score demonstrated a moderate correlation with the cDAPSA, HAQ, and EQ‐5D with indices (Spearman's rho of .64, .54, and −.55, respectively). The cutoff of 2.7 has 81%–84% sensitivity and 69%–85% specificity for classifying patients with MDA, satisfied PASS, and indicating no need to escalate medication.

Conclusions

The Thai‐PsAID is a valid, reliable, and feasible tool for measuring PsA prognosis. A cutoff of 2.7 accurately discriminates MDA and PASS and indicates no need for medication escalation. The Thai‐PsAID may be used as a standalone measure.
Reserving the right to say no? Equilibria around hard trade‐sustainability commitments in power‐asymmetric contexts
Authors: Cezar Rodrigo Fagundes , Montagner Oto Murer Küll
Published: April 2024

When will stringent sustainability commitments (not) be a stumbling block in the negotiation of trade agreements? Although the existing literature has explored the determinants of the design of sustainability provisions in trade agreements, few works have explored when countries will accept/reject those provisions once their content cannot be changed. Based on insights from game theory, we flesh out the conditions under which there will be an equilibrium in favor of hard sustainability provisions in trade deals. We then present empirical illustrations related to Mexico's participation in the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) and Brazil's participation in the EU‐Mercosur trade negotiations. Our model shows that (1) fears of partner opportunism, (2) the costs of nonparticipation in trade deals, and (3) costs of adjustments to hard trade‐sustainability commitments are key to understanding whether a compromise can arise on trade and strong sustainability commitments. The model highlights what sorts of concessions ought to be made for negotiations to prosper. The findings point to how the changing structure of trade governance may affect the decision‐making process of Global South countries. The paper concludes with recommendations and avenues for further research.
Multiplex fluorescent amplification‐refractory mutation systemPCRmethod for the detection of 10 genetic defects in Holstein cattle and its comparison with theKASPgenotyping assay
Authors: Khan Md. Yousuf Ali , Dai Dongmei , Su Xin , Tian Jia , Zhou Jiamin , Ma Liqin , Wang Yachun , Wen Wan , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2024

The common deleterious genetic defects in Holstein cattle include haplotypes 1–6 (HH1–HH6), haplotypes for cholesterol deficiency (HCD), bovine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (BLAD), complex vertebral malformation (CVM) and brachyspina syndrome (BS). Recessive inheritance patterns of these genetic defects permit the carriers to function normally, but homozygous recessive genotypes cause embryo loss or neonatal death. Therefore, rapid detection of the carriers is essential to manage these genetic defects. This study was conducted to develop a single‐tube multiplex fluorescent amplification–refractory mutation system (mf‐ARMS) PCR method for efficient genotyping of these 10 genetic defects and to compare its efficiency with the kompetitive allele specific PCR (KASP) genotyping assay. The mf‐ARMS PCR method introduced 10 sets of tri‐primers optimized with additional mismatches in the 3′ end of wild and mutant‐specific primers, size differentiation between wild and mutant‐specific primers, fluorescent labeling of universal primers, adjustment of annealing temperatures and optimization of primer concentrations. The genotyping of 484 Holstein cows resulted in 16.12% carriers with at least one genetic defect, while no homozygous recessive genotype was detected. This study found carrier frequencies ranging from 0.0% (HH6) to 3.72% (HH3) for individual defects. The mf‐ARMS PCR method demonstrated improved detection, time and cost efficiency compared with the KASP method for these defects. Therefore, the application of mf‐ARMS PCR for genotyping Holstein cattle is anticipated to decrease the frequency of lethal alleles and limit the transmission of these genetic defects.
Objective assessment tools in laparoscopic or robotic‐assisted gynecological surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Tesfai Freweini Martha , Nagi Jasleen , Morrison Iona , Boal Matt , Olaitan Adeola , Chandrasekaran Dhivya , Stoyanov Danail , Lanceley Anne , Francis Nader
Published: April 2024

Introduction

There is a growing emphasis on proficiency‐based progression within surgical training. To enable this, clearly defined metrics for those newly acquired surgical skills are needed. These can be formulated in objective assessment tools. The aim of the present study was to systematically review the literature reporting on available tools for objective assessment of minimally invasive gynecological surgery (simulated) performance and evaluate their reliability and validity.

Material and methods

A systematic search (1989–2022) was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science in accordance with PRISMA. The trial was registered with the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) ID: CRD42022376552. Randomized controlled trials, prospective comparative studies, prospective single‐group (with pre‐ and post‐training assessment) or consensus studies that reported on the development, validation or usage of assessment tools of surgical performance in minimally invasive gynecological surgery, were included. Three independent assessors assessed study setting and validity evidence according to a contemporary framework of validity, which was adapted from Messick's validity framework. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the modified medical education research study quality instrument (MERSQI) checklist. Heterogeneity in data reporting on types of tools, data collection, study design, definition of expertise (novice vs. experts) and statistical values prevented a meaningful meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 19 746 titles and abstracts were screened of which 72 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 37 different assessment tools were identified of which 13 represented manual global assessment tools, 13 manual procedure‐specific assessment tools and 11 automated performance metrices. Only two tools showed substantive evidence of validity. Reliability and validity per tool were provided. No assessment tools showed direct correlation between tool scores and patient related outcomes.

Conclusions

Existing objective assessment tools lack evidence on predicting patient outcomes and suffer from limitations in transferability outside of the research environment, particularly for automated performance metrics. Future research should prioritize filling these gaps while integrating advanced technologies like kinematic data and AI for robust, objective surgical skill assessment within gynecological advanced surgical training programs.
Maintaining influence through economic statecraft: Australia's response to China's presence in the Pacific region
Authors: Yoshimatsu Hidetaka , Maso Roselyn
Published: April 2024

Australia has historically been a prominent diplomatic partner for the Pacific Island countries, providing development assistance to support their social and economic progress. China gradually heightened its political and economic influence in the Pacific area by integrating the region into its Belt and Road Initiative. This development has encouraged scholars to examine Australia's diplomatic engagements in the Pacific region in response to China's growing presence. This article approaches this issue by using the concept of economic statecraft as an analytical tool. It argues that Australia's reactions to China's presence through the infusion of strategic motivations into foreign aid and the use of multilateral agreements and initiatives can be seen as positive economic statecraft with two characterizations: emulation of China's successful strategies and differentiation from Chinese approaches through the incorporation of multilateral and ideational methods.
Copper: From enigma to therapeutic target for neurological disorder
Authors: Patwa Jayant , Flora Swaran Jeet Singh
Published: April 2024

Neurological disorders (NDs) have a negative impact on the lives of individuals. There could be two explanations for this: unclear aetiology and lack of effective therapy. However, research in the past few years has revealed the role of bio‐metals dyshomeostasis in NDs. The imbalance in copper (Cu) concentration may be one of the main causative factors in NDs. In this review, we have discussed the role of Cu in NDs, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD), including the molecular mechanisms involved in Cu‐associated NDs like oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and protein misfolding. We have also summarized the recent Cu‐targeting approaches and highlighted the in vitro and in vivo studies recently being reported on the subject. Based on the earlier published reports, it could be speculated that the Cu targeting strategy might be an interesting and potential therapeutic approach for NDs. Various difficulties must be overcome to develop safe and efficient Cu‐targeting medications for NDs.
Cariprazine as a maintenance therapy in the prevention of mood episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder
Authors: McIntyre Roger S. , Davis Bethany , Rodgers Jane , Rekeda Ludmyla , Adams Julie , Yatham Lakshmi N.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Cariprazine treats acute manic and depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder (BP‐I), but its efficacy in preventing relapse of mood episode remains unknown.

Methods

In this phase 3b, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, patients with BP‐I with acute manic or depressive episodes (each with/without mixed features), were treated with cariprazine 3.0 mg/day during a 16‐week open‐label treatment period; those who achieved stable remission within 8 weeks and remained stable for at least another 8 weeks were randomized to receive cariprazine 1.5 or 3.0 mg per day or placebo in the double‐blind treatment period for up to 39 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was time to relapse of any mood episode. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed.

Results

Patients (440/896) enrolled in the open‐label treatment period achieved stability criteria and were randomized to receive cariprazine 3.0 mg/day (n = 148), cariprazine 1.5 mg/day (n = 147), or placebo (n = 145) in the double‐blind treatment period. Relapse rates were 17.9%, 16.8%, and 19.7% in the cariprazine 3.0 mg/day, cariprazine 1.5 mg/day, and placebo groups, respectively. Neither dose of cariprazine was more effective than placebo on the primary outcome (3.0 mg/day: HR = 0.89, [95% CI: 0.5, 1.5]; 1.5 mg/day: HR = 0.83, 95% CI [0.5, 1.4]). The most frequently reported AEs (≥5%) were akathisia, headache, insomnia, and nausea in the open‐label treatment period and increased weight and insomnia in the double‐blind treatment period. In the open‐label and double‐blind treatment periods, 7.5% and 1.6% of patients experienced an AE leading to discontinuation.

Conclusion

Cariprazine was not superior to placebo in the prevention of relapses in this study. Relapse rates were unusually low in the placebo group. Cariprazine was well‐tolerated.
Autistic and non‐autistic transgender youth are similar in gender development and sexuality phenotypes
Authors: Fischbach Abigail L. , Hindenach Andy , van der Miesen Anna I. R. , Yang Ji Seung , Buckley Olivia J. , Song Minneh , Campos Laura , Strang John F.
Published: April 2024

Increasing rhetoric regarding the common intersection of autism and gender diversity has resulted in legislation banning autistic transgender youth from accessing standard of care supports, as well as legislative efforts banning all youth gender care in part justified by the proportional over‐occurrence of autism. Yet, no study has investigated whether autistic and non‐autistic transgender youth present fundamentally different gender‐related phenotypes. To address this gap, we extensively characterized autism, gender diversity, and sexuality among autistic and non‐autistic transgender binary youth (N = 66, Mage = 17.17, SDage = 2.12) in order to investigate similarities and/or differences in gender and sexuality phenotypes. Neither autism diagnostic status nor continuous autistic traits were significantly related to any gender or sexuality phenotypes. These findings suggest that the developmental and experiential features of gender diversity are very similar between autistic and non‐autistic transgender adolescents. Future research is needed to determine whether the similarity in profiles is maintained over time into adulthood.
A safety and efficacy study of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for refractory and relapsed T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma patients who achieved complete remission after autologous CD7 chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy
Authors: Cao Xing‐yu , Zhang Jian‐ping , Lu Yue , Zhao Yan‐li , Liu De‐yan , Xiong Min , Sun Rui‐juan , Wei Zhi‐jie , Zhou Jia‐rui , Zhang Xian , Yang Jun‐fang , Li Jingjing , Lu Peihua
Published: April 2024

CD7‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy has shown promising initial complete remission (CR) rates in patients with refractory or relapsed (r/r) T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma (T‐ALL/LBL). To enhance the remission duration, consolidation with allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is considered. Our study delved into the outcomes of 34 patients with r/r T‐ALL/LBL who underwent allo‐HSCT after achieving CR with autologous CD7 CAR‐T therapy. These were compared with 124 consecutive T‐ALL/LBL patients who received allo‐HSCT in CR following chemotherapy. The study revealed that both the CAR‐T and chemotherapy cohorts exhibited comparable 2‐year overall survival (OS) (61.9% [95% CI, 44.1–78.1] vs. 67.6% [95% CI, 57.5–76.9], p = 0.210), leukaemia‐free survival (LFS) (62.3% [95% CI, 44.6–78.4] vs. 62.0% [95% CI, 51.8–71.7], p = 0.548), non‐relapse mortality (NRM) rates (32.0% [95% CI, 19.0–54.0] vs. 25.3% [95% CI, 17.9–35.8], p = 0.288) and relapse incidence rates (8.8% [95% CI, 3.0–26.0] vs. 15.8% [95% CI, 9.8–25.2], p = 0.557). Patients aged ≤14 in the CD7 CAR‐T group achieved high 2‐year OS and LFS rates of 87.5%. Our study indicates that CD7 CAR‐T therapy followed by allo‐HSCT is not only effective and safe for r/r T‐ALL/LBL patients but also on par with the outcomes of those achieving CR through chemotherapy, without increasing NRM.
Proteomic profiling of circulating β‐thalassaemia/haemoglobin E extra‐cellular vesicles reveals that association with immunoglobulin induces membrane vesiculation
Authors: Phongpao Kunwadee , Pholngam Nuttanan , Chokchaichamnankit Daranee , Nuamsee Khanita , Praneetponkang Rattanaporn , Ounjai Puey , Paiboonsukwong Kittiphong , Siwaponanan Panjaree , Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Svasti Jisnuson , Srisomsap Chantragan , Weeraphan Churat , Chaichompoo Pornthip , Svasti Saovaros
Published: April 2024

Splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/haemoglobin E (HbE) patients have increased levels of circulating microparticles or medium extra‐cellular vesicles (mEVs). The splenectomised mEVs play important roles in thromboembolic complications in patients since they can induce platelet activation and endothelial cell dysfunction. However, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism of mEV generation in thalassaemia disease has still not been reached. Thalassaemic mEVs are hypothesised to be generated from cellular oxidative stress in red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets. Therefore, a proteomic analysis of mEVs from splenectomised and non‐splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients was performed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 171 proteins were identified among mEVs. Interestingly, 72 proteins were uniquely found in splenectomised mEVs including immunoglobulin subunits and cytoskeleton proteins. Immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐bearing mEVs in splenectomised patients were significantly increased. Furthermore, complement C1q was detected in both mEVs with IgG binding and mEVs without IgG binding. Interestingly, the percentage of mEVs generated from RBCs with IgG binding was approximately 15–20 times higher than the percentage of RBCs binding with IgG. This suggested that the vesiculation of thalassaemia mEVs could be a mechanism of RBCs to eliminate membrane patches harbouring immune complex and may consequently prevent cells from phagocytosis and lysis.
Radiosensitizing effect of a novel CTSS inhibitor by enhancing BRCA1 protein stability in triple‐negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Choi Eun , Jeon Kyung‐Hwa , Lee Hanhee , Mun Gil‐Im , Kim Jeong‐Ahn , Shin Jae‐Ho , Kwon Youngjoo , Na Younghwa , Lee Yun‐Sil
Published: April 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients harboring wild‐type breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) account for most TNBC patients but lack adequate targeted therapeutic options. Although radiotherapy (RT) is the primary treatment modality for TNBC patients, radioresistance is one of the major challenges. RT‐induced increase in cathepsin S (CTSS) causes radioresistance through suppressing BRCA1‐mediated apoptosis of tumor cells, which was induced by CTSS‐mediated degradation of BRCA1. Targeting CTSS may provide a novel therapeutic opportunity for TNBC patients. Publicly available data and human tissue microarray slides were analyzed to investigate the relationship between CTSS and BRCA1 in breast cancer patients. A CTSS enzyme assay and in silico docking analysis were conducted to identify a novel CTSS inhibitor. RO5461111 was used first to confirm the concept of targeting CTSS for radiosensitizing effects. The MDA‐MB‐231 TNBC cell line was used for in vitro and in vivo assays. Western blotting, promoter assay, cell death assay, clonogenic survival assay, and immunohistochemistry staining were conducted to evaluate novel CTSS inhibitors. CTSS inhibitors were further evaluated for their additional benefit of inhibiting cell migration. A novel CTSS inhibitor, TS‐24, increased BRCA1 protein levels and showed radiosensitization in TNBC cells with wild‐type BRCA1 and in vivo in a TNBC xenograft mouse model. These effects were attributed by BRCA1‐mediated apoptosis facilitated by TS‐24. Furthermore, TS‐24 demonstrated the additional effect of inhibiting cell migration. Our study suggests that employing CTSS inhibitors for the functional restoration of BRCA1 to enhance RT‐induced apoptosis may provide a novel therapeutic opportunity for TNBC patients harboring wild‐type BRCA1.
ECM1 and KRT6A are involved in tumor progression and chemoresistance in the effect of dexamethasone on pancreatic cancer
Authors: Shinomiya Yoshiki , Kouchi Yusuke , Harada‐Kagitani Sakurako , Ishige Takayuki , Takano Shigetsugu , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Ikeda Jun‐Ichiro , Kishimoto Takashi
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a very poor prognosis. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is an effective PDAC treatment option, but chemotherapy causes unfavorable side effects. Glucocorticoids (e.g., dexamethasone [DEX]) are administered to reduce side effects of chemotherapy for solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer. Glucocorticoids have both beneficial and detrimental effects, however. We investigated the functional changes and gene‐expression profile alterations induced by DEX in PDAC cells. PDAC cells were treated with DEX, and the cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemosensitivity to gemcitabine (GEM) were evaluated. The results demonstrated decreased cell proliferative capacity, increased cell migration and invasion, and decreased sensitivity to GEM. A comprehensive genetic analysis revealed marked increases in ECM1 and KRT6A in DEX‐treated PDAC cells. We evaluated the effects of ECM1 and KRT6A expression by using PDAC cells transfected with those genes. Neither ECM1 nor KRT6A changed the cells’ proliferation, but each enhanced cell migration and invasion. ECM1 decreased sensitivity to GEM. We also assessed the clinicopathological significance of the expressions of ECM1 and KRT6A in 130 cases of PDAC. An immunohistochemical analysis showed that KRT6A expression dominated the poorly differentiated areas. High expressions of these two proteins in PDAC were associated with a poorer prognosis. Our results thus demonstrated that DEX treatment changed PDAC cells’ functions, resulting in decreased cell proliferation, increased cell migration and invasion, and decreased sensitivity to GEM. The molecular mechanisms of these changes involve ECM1 and KRT6A, whose expressions are induced by DEX.
Trajectories of digital flourishing in adolescence: The predictive roles of developmental changes and digital divide factors
Authors: Rosič Jasmina , Schreurs Lara , Janicke‐Bowles Sophie H. , Vandenbosch Laura
Published: April 2024

Digital flourishing refers to the positive perceptions of digital communication use in five dimensions: connectedness, positive social comparison, authentic self‐presentation, civil participation, and self‐control. This three‐wave panel study among 1081 Slovenian adolescents (Mage = 15.34 years, 53.8% boys, 80.7% ethnic majority) explored the trajectories of their digital flourishing dimensions over 1 year (2021–2022). Latent class growth analysis identified two classes. Adolescents in the first class reported high levels of digital flourishing, which remained stable over time, whereas those in the second class reported low levels of digital flourishing with decreased self‐control over time. Autonomy‐supportive restrictive, autonomy‐supportive active, and controlling active parental mediation styles, together with high parental digital skills, predicted adolescents' belongingness to the (more digitally flourishing) first class.
Impact of digital technologies on implant surgery in fully edentulous patients: A scoping review
Authors: Lanis Alejandro , Peña‐Cardelles Juan Francisco , Negreiros William Matthew , Hamilton Adam , Gallucci German O.
Published: April 2024

Background

For over three decades, digital technologies have been used in Implant Dentistry, beginning with the introduction of planning software for Static Computer‐Assisted Implant Surgery (S‐CAIS). During this time, this field has witnessed the emergence of diverse methodologies and a proliferation of technological advancements. Today, S‐CAIS is a widely adopted procedure for the placement of dental implants in both partially and fully edentulous patients, with Dynamic Computer‐Assisted Surgery (D‐CAIS) and Robotic‐Assisted Implant Surgery (RAIS) rapidly gaining attention among dental professionals. The continuous advancements in this arena are not merely indicative of technological progress; they represent a steadfast dedication to refining precision, enhancing efficiency, and fostering innovation with the goal of optimizing patient outcomes in dental implantology.

Aims

The purpose of the following review is to meticulously examine the spectrum of digital technologies available and to describe their protocols, advantages, and shortcomings as well as to evaluate their accuracy in implant surgery in patients with complete edentulism.

Materials and Methods

A scoping review was performed following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) protocols, leveraging the population, concept, and context (PCC) framework to construct the research question and determine the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

Two hundred and sixty‐seven records were identified for screening. After applying all the screening criteria, 41 articles were included for review and qualitative data analysis.

Discussion

S‐CAIS, D‐CAIS, and RAIS were identified as the main technologies for computer assisted implant surgery. Their applications, characteristics, protocols and levels of accuracy were compared and described.

Conclusion

Taking into consideration the limitations of this study, S‐CAIS appears to be the most applied and validated technology in implant surgery for fully edentulous patients followed by D‐CAIS and RAIS being these last two promising initiatives in the field. Despite having similar levels of accuracy, the overall comparison showed a slightly higher values in RAIS followed by D‐CAIS and S‐CAIS.