bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The business value of privacy-preserving technologies: the case of multiparty computation in the telecom industry
Authors: Ofe Hosea , Minnema Harm , de Reuver Mark
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a framework for how privacy-preserving technologies (PETs) create business value for organizations. The framework was developed by examining the literature on privacy and information technology’s impact (symbolic and function). The authors evaluate the framework’s applicability using multiparty computation (MPC) as an instance of PETs, with expert interviews in the telecommunication industry.

Design/methodology/approach

In an illustrative case of four telecommunication companies, the authors conducted semi-structured interviews with experts and used MPC as an instance of PET.

Findings

The evaluation of the framework indicates that PETs create business value for organizations: enhancing customer interactions, sales, personalized services, predicting market trends and collaboration among organizations. The findings show that business value of PETs is mainly driven by consumers and organizations willing to share data and collaborate.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to the telecom sector and focused on MPC as an instance of PET. Further studies should be conducted to explore the benefits of other PETs and MPC. Future research could find out if this framework is also helpful for implementing other PETs or even other types of technology. The authors’ framework provides factors that future studies can use to quantify the impact of PETs. The authors hope that this framework provides an overarching reference for organizations considering the adoption of PETs.

Practical implications

The authors’ findings inform managers in exploring the business value of PETs for organizations. This study also provides insights into which costs and risks to consider when implementing PETs.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few to propose a framework on how PETs create business value for organizations. Future research can use factors in the framework (e.g. customer interactions, sales, personalized services and market trend prediction) to conduct a quantitative study on PETs’ business value. Managers adopting PETs can use the framework to identify areas where PETs impact their organization.
Semiautomated process for generating knowledge graphs for marginalized community doctoral-recipients
Authors: Keshan Neha , Fontaine Kathleen , Hendler James A.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the “InDO: Institute Demographic Ontology” and demonstrates the InDO-based semiautomated process for both generating and extending a knowledge graph to provide a comprehensive resource for marginalized US graduate students. The knowledge graph currently consists of instances related to the semistructured National Science Foundation Survey of Earned Doctorates (NSF SED) 2019 analysis report data tables. These tables contain summary statistics of an institute’s doctoral recipients based on a variety of demographics. Incorporating institute Wikidata links ultimately produces a table of unique, clearly readable data.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a customized semantic extract transform and loader (SETLr) script to ingest data from 2019 US doctoral-granting institute tables and preprocessed NSF SED Tables 1, 3, 4 and 9. The generated InDO knowledge graph is evaluated using two methods. First, the authors compare competency questions’ sparql results from both the semiautomatically and manually generated graphs. Second, the authors expand the questions to provide a better picture of an institute’s doctoral-recipient demographics within study fields.

Findings

With some preprocessing and restructuring of the NSF SED highly interlinked tables into a more parsable format, one can build the required knowledge graph using a semiautomated process.

Originality/value

The InDO knowledge graph allows the integration of US doctoral-granting institutes demographic data based on NSF SED data tables and presentation in machine-readable form using a new semiautomated methodology.
Preparation and tribological properties of SiO2/WO3 nanocomposite lubricant
Authors: Zhang Xiaomeng , Xiong Sang , Gao Feng , Du Jinyuan , Du Qin-Jian
Published: October 2022

Purpose

WO3 particles were prepared by the sol-gel method. Tetraethyl silicate (TEOS) was used to obtain a SiO2-coated WO3 nanoparticle. Quantum chemical parameters of oleic acid, triethanolamine, glycerol and methyl pentane as dispersants were theoretically calculated. Tribological properties of SiO2/WO3 nanocomposite lubricant were carried out on an MRS-10A four-ball friction and wear tester.

Design/methodology/approach

The purpose of this study is to investigate the preparation and tribological properties of SiO2/WO3 nanocomposite lubricant.

Findings

The obtained SiO2-coated WO3 nanoparticle (nano-SiO2/WO3) with a particle size of about 70 nm. The calculated adsorption energy of triethanolamine on the surface of the steel ball is 554.6 eV, and triethanolamine is selected as the dispersant. The dispersion effect of SiO2/WO3 nanocomposite lubricant is good, which shows that triethanolamine oleate plays a good dispersion role in the preparation of lubricant, which is consistent with the calculation results of the adsorption capacity of dispersant. As a good auxiliary lubricant, SiO2 can improve the tribological properties and wear resistance of WO3.

Originality/value

Nanocomposite lubricants have been the focus of research in recent years, which could greatly reduce energy consumption. And the SiO2/WO3 exhibited excellent lubrication performance as a lubricant additive. The lubrication mechanism of SiO2/WO3 nanocomposite lubricant is the synergistic lubrication mechanism of friction film lubrication and antifriction bearing. This study could provide a certain reference for the practical application of nanocomposite lubricants.
Performance of small firms in a circular economy: configuring challenges and entrepreneurial orientation
Authors: Khan Eijaz Ahmed , Chowdhury Md. Maruf Hossan , Hossain Mohammad Alamgir , Mahmud A.K.M. Shakil , Baabdullah Abdullah M. , Dwivedi Yogesh K.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Society's concerns about environmental degradation have tightened competitive pressure and brought new challenges to small firms. Against this backdrop, this study develops a decision model to determine a suitable configuration for entrepreneurial orientation to help small firms manage circular economy challenges and improve their performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a multi-study and multi-method approach. Study 1, through qualitative in-depth interviews, identified a portfolio of circular economy challenges and entrepreneurial-orientation components. Study 2 applied the quality function deployment technique to determine the most important components of entrepreneurial orientation. Study 3 adopted a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to determine the best configuration for challenges and components.

Findings

The findings reveal a set of challenges and identify the salient need to combine the negation of these challenges with the components of entrepreneurial orientation; this combination will improve the performance of small firms. The research extends the current knowledge of managing circular economy challenges and offers decision-makers insights into improving their resilience.

Originality/value

The use of the dynamic capability view, together with the multi-study and multi-method approach, may lead to an appropriate reconfiguration of entrepreneurial orientation, which, to date, has received limited empirical attention in the small-business-management discipline.
Will career plateau lead to employee silence? A moderated mediation model
Authors: Jing Song , Zeng Yue , Xu Tian , Yin Qun , Ogbu Kenneth O. , Huang Ju
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Career plateau and employee silence are negative employee management phenomena that should be overcome but are challenging. However, relatively speaking, when employees reach a particular career stage, it is inevitable that the hierarchical plateau in the career plateau will occur, while the phenomena of employee silence have the chance to improve. This paper aims to study the influence mechanism of the career plateau on employee silence in an uncertain environment and then provides theoretical support for enhancing the organizational phenomenon of employee silence.

Design/methodology/approach

After considering the effects of career plateau and social desirability of employee silence, this paper obtained 313 samples based on the pilot survey, which were collected anonymously online and offline. Based on passing the data quality test, this experiment uses hierarchical regression, Bootstrap method, interaction graph and slope test to test the mediating variable

Findings

The results show a significant positive correlation between career plateau and employees' silent behavior. Affective commitment plays a partial mediating role between career plateau and employees' silent behavior. Organizational justice not only negatively moderated the relationship between career plateau and affective commitment but also negatively moderated the indirect effect of career plateau on silent behavior through affective commitment.

Originality/value

First, based on the theory of uncertainty management and social exchange theory, this paper develops a behavioral response to the organizational environment based on the principle of fair exchange when employees perceive an uncertain environment. This study innovatively applied the two theories together in one study, establishing a link between the two theories. Second, this study explores the influence of career plateau on employee silence and empirically tests the silent behavior based on the previous division of three dimensions of career plateau. The third study explores affective commitment, the black box of the relationship between career plateau and employee silence. This research also enriches the related research on affective commitment.
Ulinastatin affects focal cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury via SOCS1‐mediated JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Xiaoxi , Li Peng , Huang Renming , Zhang Juan , Ouyang Xingzhi , Tan Dianxiang
Published: October 2022

Cerebral ischemia results in loss of cerebral blood flow, which contributes to neuronal damage, neurocognitive impairment, as well as learning and memory difficulties. Although reperfusion is necessary to restore the blood supply to the brain, it also leads to several detrimental effects on the brain. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of ulinastatin (UTI) on preventing focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion‐induced injury (FCIRI). First, a rat model of FCIRI was established and treated with UTI. The effects of UTI on FCIRI in rats were evaluated using Morris water maze assay, triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining, TUNEL, western blot assay, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis. UTI was found to improve the learning memory ability, reduce infarction area, inhibit apoptosis and decrease inflammation in FCIRI rats. Messenger RNA microarray analysis of hippocampal tissues revealed that suppressor of cytokine signalling‐1 (SOCS1) was the downstream target of UTI in FCIRI. SOCS1 depletion impaired the protective effect of UTI on FCIRI in rats. SOCS1 blocked the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. JAK2 inhibitor caused the JAK2/STAT3 pathway deficit, hence reversing the effect of sh‐SOCS1 on FCIRI in rats. Taken together, our results demonstrate that UTI alleviated FCIRI in rats, which was, to some extent, related to SOCS1‐mediated JAK2/STAT3 pathway.
Impact of salinity origin on microbial communities in saline springs within the Illinois Basin, USA
Authors: Zhao Linduo , Shao Hongbo , Zhang Li , Panno Samuel V. , Kelly Walton R. , Lin Tzu‐Yu , Liu Wen‐Tso , Flynn Theodore M. , Berger Peter
Published: October 2022

Saline springs within the Illinois Basin result from the discharge of deep‐seated evaporated seawater (brine) and likely contain diverse and complex microbial communities that are poorly understood. In this study, seven saline/mineral springs with different geochemical characteristics and salinity origins were investigated using geochemical and molecular microbiological analyses to reveal the composition of microbial communities inhabiting springs and their key controlling factors. The 16S rRNA sequencing results demonstrated that each spring harbours a unique microbial community influenced by its geochemical properties and subsurface conditions. The microbial communities in springs that originated from Cambrian/Ordovician strata, which are deep confined units that have limited recharge from overlying formations, share a greater similarity in community composition and have a higher species richness and more overlapped taxa than those that originated from shallower Pennsylvanian strata, which are subject to extensive regional surface and groundwater recharge. The microbial distribution along the spring flow paths at the surface indicates that 59.8%–94.2% of total sequences in sedimentary samples originated from spring water, highlighting the role of springs in influencing microbiota in the immediate terrestrial environment. The results indicate that the springs introduce microbiota with a high biodiversity into surface terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems, potentially affecting microbial reservoirs in downstream ecosystems.
Illuminating the dark metabolome of Pseudo‐nitzschia–microbiome associations
Authors: Koester Irina , Quinlan Zachary A. , Nothias Louis‐Félix , White Margot E. , Rabines Ariel , Petras Daniel , Brunson John K. , Dührkop Kai , Ludwig Marcus , Böcker Sebastian , Azam Farooq , Allen Andrew E. , Dorrestein Pieter C. , Aluwihare Lihini I.
Published: October 2022

The exchange of metabolites mediates algal and bacterial interactions that maintain ecosystem function. Yet, while thousands of metabolites are produced, only a few molecules have been identified in these associations. Using the ubiquitous microalgae Pseudo‐nitzschia sp., as a model, we employed an untargeted metabolomics strategy to assign structural characteristics to the metabolites that distinguished specific diatom‐microbiome associations. We cultured five species of Pseudo‐nitzschia, including two species that produced the toxin domoic acid, and examined their microbiomes and metabolomes. A total of 4826 molecular features were detected by tandem mass spectrometry. Only 229 of these could be annotated using available mass spectral libraries, but by applying new in silico annotation tools, characterization was expanded to 2710 features. The metabolomes of the Pseudo‐nitzschia‐microbiome associations were distinct and distinguished by structurally diverse nitrogen compounds, ranging from simple amines and amides to cyclic compounds such as imidazoles, pyrrolidines and lactams. By illuminating the dark metabolomes, this study expands our capacity to discover new chemical targets that facilitate microbial partnerships and uncovers the chemical diversity that underpins algae‐bacteria interactions.
The Art of Assemblage at La Venta
Authors: Brittenham Claudia
Published: October 2022

How might the meaning of monumental sculpture be ephemeral? At La Venta, objects from greenstone figurines to massive basalt sculptures were recycled, reworked, and moved around the landscape, their new configurations and associations creating new kinds of meaning and enabling new kinds of ritual interaction. This essay considers the assemblage, and not just the individual work, as an important category of art‐historical analysis. By considering the divergent materialities of stelae, celts, figurines, and colossal heads, as well as the role that ephemeral materials played in the construction of ritually significant assemblages, I explore the connections between monumentality, memory, and forgetting at La Venta.
Reduction in preterm birth rate during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Analysing causation
Authors: Sisti Giovanni , Joseph Julie T.
Published: October 2022

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on Rusconi et al., pp.276–284 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471‐0528.17315
Agricultural diversification, productivity, and food security across time and space
Authors: Chavas Jean‐Paul , Rivieccio Giorgia , Di Falco Salvatore , De Luca Giovanni , Capitanio Fabian
Published: October 2022

This article presents an investigation of agricultural production risk over time and across space and its implications for food security. The econometric approach involves a Quantile Autoregressive (QAR) model and a copula to provide a flexible representation of the distribution of yield risk and its evolution over time and across space. The analysis relies on a two‐step estimation method to evaluate the multivariate yield distribution and its spatial and temporal evolution. Linkages between agricultural production risk and the economics of food security are explored, with implications for the welfare cost of food insecurity. The approach is illustrated in an econometric application to regional wheat and corn yields in Italy. The analysis provides new and useful information on the evolving linkages between agricultural production risk, productivity, and food security. Our integrated approach documents the role of regional diversification and of productivity growth along with their effects on food security.
The association of smoking, use of snuff, and preconception alcohol consumption with spontaneous abortion: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Skogsdal Yvonne , Karlsson Jan , Tydén Tanja , Patil Snehal , Backman Helena
Published: October 2022

Introduction

It is unclear whether tobacco in early pregnancy and alcohol use preceding pregnancy are associated with spontaneous abortion. The purpose was to investigate if use of tobacco and/or alcohol is associated with spontaneous abortion among women attending antenatal care, and if age and body mass index (BMI) attenuate the risk.

Material and Methods

A population‐based cohort study based on data from the Swedish Pregnancy Register. All pregnant women having had the first antenatal visit from January 2014 to July 2018 were included (n = 525 604). The register had information about smoking and use of snuff before and in early pregnancy, as well as data on alcohol habits before pregnancy, measured by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), a validated questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association between lifestyle factors and spontaneous abortion, and multiple imputation was used to impute missing data.

Results

In total, 34 867 (6.6%) pregnancies ended in a spontaneous abortion after the first visit to maternal health care. At the first maternal healthcare visit, daily smoking was reported by 24 214 (5.1%), and 6403 (1.2%) used snuff. For 19 837 (4.2%) women, a high alcohol score was reported for the year preceding pregnancy. After adjusting for potential confounders and multiple imputation, use of tobacco was associated with spontaneous abortion; smoking 1–9 cigarettes/day (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.18), smoking 10 or more cigarettes/day (aOR 1.12, 95% CI 1.–1.26), and use of snuff (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.06–1.37). Higher AUDIT scores were not significantly associated with spontaneous abortion (AUDIT 6–9: aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.97–1.10 and AUDIT 10 or more: aOR 1.07, 95% CI 0.94–1.22). Increasing maternal age showed the highest risk of spontaneous abortion from the age of 35, and BMI of 30 kg/m2 or more increased the risk. There were interactions between different lifestyle factors associated with spontaneous abortion that could either increase or decrease the risk of spontaneous abortion.

Conclusions

Smoking and use of snuff were associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion. The AUDIT scores preceding pregnancy were not associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion, which contradicts the results from previous studies.
Editorial: maternal and paternal 5‐aminosalicylic acid use—safe in conception and pregnancy
Authors: Bennett Audrey , Horst Sara
Published: October 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Norgard et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17189
Population pharmacokinetics of sublingually administered tacrolimus in infants and young children with liver transplantation
Authors: Riva Natalia , Ibarra Manuel , Parra‐Guillen Zinnia P. , Galván Maria Eugenia , Pérez Erika , Trezeguet Renatti Guido , Cáceres Guido Paulo , Lopez Clarisa , Licciardone Nieves , Halac Esteban , Dip Marcelo , Cruz Alejandro , Imventarza Oscar , Buamscha Daniel , Troconiz Iñaki F. , Schaiquevich Paula
Published: October 2022

Aims

Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus after sublingual administration is not characterized in paediatric liver transplant patients. Therefore, we aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic model of sublingually administered tacrolimus in patients who cannot swallow the capsules due to their age, sedation status and/or mechanical ventilation during the first weeks post‐transplantation.

Methods

Demographic, clinical and pharmacological variables, including tacrolimus whole blood concentrations obtained from therapeutic drug monitoring and data from dense‐sampling pharmacokinetic profiles, were recorded in 26 paediatric patients with biliary atresia who underwent liver transplantation between 2016 and 2021. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed with NONMEM v7.4.

Results

Disposition of tacrolimus was best characterized by a 2‐compartment model with clearance achieving half of the maximum elimination capacity (CLMAX = 4.1 L/h) at 4.6 days post‐transplantation (T50). Compared to sedated patients, nonsedated status showed an increased first‐order absorption rate constant (1.1 vs. 0.1 h−1) and a 24% reduction in bioavailability (FNS) at 14 days post‐transplant. The model was able to explain the oral absorption pattern in nonsedated patients as the result of gut bioavailability (0.9) and hepatic extraction ratio, with the latter being responsible for first‐pass effects. Estimates of interindividual variability remained moderate (25.9% for the gut bioavailability) to high (79.8% for the apparent volume of distribution of the central compartment, and 101% for T50).

Conclusion

A population pharmacokinetic model of sublingually administered tacrolimus in paediatric patients was developed to characterize different absorption mechanisms. Once the model is externally validated, the effect of post‐transplant time on clearance and the sedation status may be considered in routine dosing management.
The psychology of income wealth threshold estimations: A registered report
Authors: Rinn Robin , Krishna Anand , Deutsch Roland
Published: October 2022

How do people estimate the income that is needed to be rich? Two correlative survey studies (Study 1 and 2, N = 568) and one registered experimental study (Study 3, N = 500) examined the cognitive mechanisms that are used to derive an answer to this question. We tested whether individuals use their personal income (PI) as a self‐generated anchor to derive an estimate of the income needed to be rich (= income wealth threshold estimation, IWTE). On a bivariate level, we found the expected positive relationship between one's PI and IWTE and, in line with previous findings, we found that people do not consider themselves rich. Furthermore, we predicted that individuals additionally use information about their social status within their social circles to make an IWTE. The findings from study 2 support this notion and show that only self‐reported high‐income individuals show different IWTEs depending on relative social status: Individuals in this group who self‐reported a high status produced higher IWTEs than individuals who self‐reported low status. The registered experimental study could not replicate this pattern robustly, although the results trended non‐significantly in the same direction. Together, the findings revealed that the income of individuals as well as the social environment are used as sources of information to make IWTE judgements, although they are likely not the only important predictors.
Managers' search practices at the front end of radical manufacturing technology innovations
Authors: Chaoji Pooja , Martinsuo Miia
Published: October 2022

Managers of manufacturing firms have important tasks in choosing novel technology solutions for the firm's production process. The emergence of ideas for radical manufacturing technology innovations and managers' proactive search for radical ideas and concepts for developing production processes have not been well understood. This study concentrates on managers' search practices at the front end of radical manufacturing technology innovations. We analyzed managers' practices in the early phase of nine radical manufacturing technology innovation projects across three firms. Radical manufacturing technology innovations require acknowledging both process innovations for the manufacturer and product innovations for the equipment supplier. The findings of this study revealed alternative patterns regarding the use of directed and autonomous search processes, internal and external information sources and open and closed supplier searches. This study offers new knowledge on the nature of the information processing task that managers face and on the search practices that managers use at the front end of radical manufacturing technology innovations. The study contributes by differentiating the managers' search practices based on the specific innovation scope in terms of the technology, equipment and production concept. Propositions are offered concerning the drivers and use of managers' search practices at the front end of radical manufacturing technology innovations.
Developmental changes in students' use of dimensional comparisons to form ability self‐concepts in math and verbal domains
Authors: Wan Sirui , Lauermann Fani , Bailey Drew H. , Eccles Jacquelynne S.
Published: October 2022

Dimensional comparisons (i.e., comparing own performances across domains) may drive an increasing differentiation in students' math and verbal self‐concepts over time, but little longitudinal research has directly tested this assumption. Using cross‐sequential data spanning Grades 1–12 (N = 1069, ages 6–18, 92% White, 2% Black, 51% female, collected 1987–1996), this study charted age‐related changes in the role of dimensional comparisons in students' ability self‐concept formation. It used three types of self‐concept measures: peer comparisons, cross‐domain comparisons, and no comparisons. Results indicated that the increase in students' use of dimensional comparisons in self‐evaluations substantially contributed to the increasing differentiation in students' math and verbal self‐concepts over time. Findings highlight the importance of dimensional comparisons in the development of students' ability self‐concepts.
Clinical evaluations of alveolar ridge preservation in compromised extraction sockets with cortical‐lamina anchoring technique: Case series study
Authors: Guo Zehong , Yang Liqing , Kang Yujie , Wang Zhiping , Ren Fei , Sun Xuan , Yang Hong , Zhang Zhaoqiang
Published: October 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the clinical outcomes of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) in the compromised extraction sockets using autogenous cortical‐lamina anchoring technique (CAT).

Material and methods

Twenty patients were treated with ARP in the compromised extraction sockets by applying CAT. Then implant placement and crown delivery was performed. A planned follow‐up was performed by analyzing various outcome measures to evaluate the clinical outcomes, including primary outcome measures [radiographic assessment of residual alveolar ridge height (RARH) and residual alveolar ridge width (RARW)] and secondary outcome measures [clinical assessment of the healing of the soft and hard tissue, survival rates of implants, marginal bone loss (MBL) evaluation of implants, buccal bone thickness (BBT), and esthetic treatment outcomes].

Results

Among the 20 patients, 17 were consecutively treated and 3 dropped out after implant crown delivery because of loss to follow‐up. After the ARP, the initial RARH (12.37 mm) significantly increased to 19.29 mm (P < .05). No significant difference was detected in the RARW before (7.92 ± 1.18 mm) and after (7.92 ± 1.18 mm) the ARP, but reduce to 6.99 ± 1.18 mm at the implant placement and 6.64 ± 0.77 mm at the 3‐year follow‐up (P < .05). The MBL at the implant crown delivery (0.13 ± 0.12 mm) significantly increased to 0.31 ± 0.14 mm at 1‐year follow‐up and 0.56 ± 0.23 mm at 3‐year follow‐up, respectively. The bone loss was limited (<1 mm) but statistically significant (P < .05). The BBT at the implant placement (2.53 ± 0.56 mm) significantly reduced to 2.23 ± 0.44 mm at implant crown delivery and 2.14 ± 0.40 mm at 3‐year follow‐up, respectively. The bone loss was also limited (<0.5 mm) but statistically significant (P < .05). Each implant site showed acceptable aesthetic outcome and the average score was 16.4. The incisions healed uneventful in all patients and the implant survival rate was 100% during the 3‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

Autogenous CAT was successfully applied to preserve the height and width of alveolar ridge in the compromised extraction sockets.
Immunohistochemical comparison of lateral bone augmentation using a synthetic TiO2 block or a xenogeneic graft in chronic alveolar defects
Authors: Thieu Minh Khai Le , Stoetzel Sabine , Rahmati Maryam , El Khassawna Thaqif , Verket Anders , Sanz‐Esporrin Javier , Sanz Mariano , Ellingsen Jan Eirik , Haugen Håvard Jostein
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To evaluate osteogenic markers and alveolar ridge profile changes in guided bone regeneration (GBR) of chronic noncontained bone defects using a nonresorbable TiO2 block.

Materials and Methods

Three buccal bone defects were created in each hemimandible of eight beagle dogs and allowed to heal for 8 weeks before GBR. Treatment was assigned by block randomization: TiO2 block: TiO2‐scaffold and a collagen membrane, DBBM particulates: Deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) and a collagen membrane, Empty control: Only collagen membrane. Bone regeneration was assessed on two different healing timepoints: early (4 weeks) and late healing (12 weeks) using several immunohistochemistry markers including alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), osteopontin, osteocalcin, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase, and collagen type I. Histomorphometry was performed on Movat Pentachrome‐stained and Von Kossa/Van Gieson‐stained sections. Stereolithographic (STL) models were used to compare alveolar profile changes.

Results

The percentage of α‐SMA and osteopontin increased in TiO2 group after 12 weeks of healing at the bone‐scaffold interface, while collagen type I increased in the empty control group. In the defect area, α‐SMA decreased in the empty control group, while collagen type I increased in the DBBM group. All groups maintained alveolar profile from 4 to 12 weeks, but TiO2 group demonstrated the widest soft tissue contour profile.

Conclusions

The present findings suggested contact osteogenesis when GBR is performed with a TiO2 block or DBBM particulates. The increase in osteopontin indicated a potential for bone formation beyond 12 weeks. The alveolar profile data indicated a sustained lateral increase in lateral bone augmentation using a TiO2 block and a collagen membrane, as compared with DBBM and a collagen membrane or a collagen membrane alone.
Risk and survival in colorectal cancer with increasing body mass index: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Saeed Usman , Myklebust Tor Å. , Robsahm Trude E. , Kielland Marlene F. , Møller Bjørn , Skålhegg Bjørn S. , Mala Tom , Yaqub Sheraz
Published: October 2022

Aim

The aim was to explore potential associations between the body mass index (BMI) and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), including subsites of the colon, and cancer‐specific death.

Methods

A registry‐based cohort study was conducted with baseline data gathered from the Norwegian Tuberculosis Screening Programme, collected between 1963 and 1975, and linked to follow‐up data from the Cancer Registry of Norway and the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry. Cox regression models were used to explore associations between BMI and CRC risk and cancer‐specific death.

Results

Of 1 723 692 included individuals, 76 616 developed CRC during 55 370 707 person‐years of follow‐up. In men, a 5 kg/m2 increase in BMI was associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, including both right and left subsites, and rectal cancer. Allowing for nonlinearities, we found a U‐shaped association for the right colon and an inverse U‐shape for the left colon and rectum cancer. In women, a 5 kg/m2 increase in BMI in early adulthood was associated with increased risk of colon cancer, including both subsites. In women, an increased risk of CRC death with increasing BMI was found for colon cancer.

Conclusions

Men of all ages have an increased risk of CRC with increasing BMI, with the highest risk for right‐sided colon cancer. An increased risk for colon cancer was also found in women with high BMI in early adulthood. Furthermore, women of all age groups appeared to have an increased risk of CRC death with higher BMI.
Impact of surgeon volume on 18‐month unclosed ileostomy rate after restorative rectal cancer resection
Authors: Tyler Robert , Foss Helen , Phelan Liam , Radley Simon , Geh Ian , Karandikar Sharad
Published: October 2022

Aim

The impact of surgeon volume on 18‐month unclosed ileostomy rates after rectal cancer surgery has not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to describe the effect of surgeon volume and evaluate factors predictive of an unclosed ileostomy.

Method

Patients undergoing anterior resection with a diverting ileostomy for rectal cancer from March 2004 to October 2018 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. The unclosed ileostomy rate was determined by those with an unclosed ileostomy at 18 months. High‐ and low‐volume surgeons (HVS and LVS, respectively) were classed as those performing five or more or fewer than five rectal cancer resections per year, respectively. Data on sex, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT), tumour height, T‐stage, anastomotic leak, surgical approach and adjuvant chemotherapy were also collected. Factors predictive of an unclosed ileostomy at 18 months were explored using a multivariate binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 415 patients (62.4% male) with a median age of 67 were eligible for analysis. Of these, 115 (27.7%) had an unclosed ileostomy at 18 months. HVS had an unclosed ileostomy rate of 24.6% (72/292) compared with 34.9% (43/123) for LVS. Volume was associated with an unclosed ileostomy in univariable analysis (p = 0.032) but not in multivariate analysis (OR 1.75, 95% CI 0.92–3.32, p = 0.08). Independent factors predictive of an unclosed ileostomy were anastomotic leak (OR 10.41, 3.95–27.0, p < 0.01), adjuvant chemotherapy (OR 2.23, 1.24–3.96, p < 0.01) and neoadjuvant CRT (OR 2.16, 1.15–5.75, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

LVS were associated with a higher unclosed ileostomy at 18 months compared with HVS. This study adds further weight to the call for adoption of a minimum annual case threshold in rectal cancer surgery.
Plant–frugivore interactions across the Caribbean islands: Modularity, invader complexes and the importance of generalist species
Authors: Vollstädt Maximilian G. R. , Galetti Mauro , Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Simmons Benno I. , Gonçalves Fernando , Morales‐Pérez Alcides L. , Navarro Luis , Tarazona‐Tubens Fabio L. , Schubert Spencer , Carlo Tomas , Salazar Jackeline , Faife‐Cabrera Michel , Strong Allan , Madden Hannah , Mitchell Adam , Dalsgaard Bo
Published: October 2022

Aim

Mutualistic interactions between plants and animals are fundamental for the maintenance of natural communities and the ecosystem services they provide. However, particularly in human‐dominated island ecosystems, introduced species may alter mutualistic interactions. Based on an extensive dataset of plant–frugivore interactions, we mapped and analysed a meta‐network across the Caribbean archipelago. Specifically, we searched for subcommunity structure (modularity) and identified the types of species facilitating the integration of introduced species in the Caribbean meta‐network.

Location

Caribbean archipelago (Lucayan archipelago, Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles).

Methods

We reviewed published scientific literature, unpublished theses and other nonpeer‐reviewed sources to compile an extensive dataset of plant–frugivore interactions. We visualized spatial patterns and conducted a modularity analysis of the cross‐island meta‐network. We also examined which species were most likely to interact with introduced species: (1) endemic, nonendemic native or introduced species, and (2) generalized or specialized species.

Results

We reported 3060 records of interactions between 486 plant and 178 frugivore species. The Caribbean meta‐network was organized in 13 modules, driven by a combination of functional or taxonomic (modules dominated by certain groups of frugivores) and biogeographical (island‐specific modules) mechanisms. Few introduced species or interaction pairs were shared across islands, suggesting little homogenization of the plant–frugivore meta‐network at the regional scale. However, we found evidence of “invader complexes,” as introduced frugivores were more likely to interact with introduced plants than expected at random. Moreover, we found generalist species more likely to interact with introduced species than were specialized species.

Main conclusions

These results demonstrate that generalist species and “invader complexes” may facilitate the incorporation of introduced species into plant–frugivore communities. Despite the influx of introduced species, the meta‐network was structured into modules related to biogeographical and functional or taxonomic affinities. These findings reveal how introduced species become an integral part of mutualistic systems on tropical islands.
Quantifying latent social motivation and its associations with joint attention and language in infants at high and low likelihood for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Stallworthy Isabella C. , Berry Daniel , Davis Savannah , Wolff Jason J. , Burrows Catherine A. , Swanson Meghan R. , Grzadzinski Rebecca L. , Botteron Kelly , Dager Stephen R. , Estes Annette M. , Schultz Robert T. , Piven Joseph , Elison Jed T. , Pruett John R. , Marrus Natasha ,   for The IBIS Network
Published: October 2022

Social motivation—the psychobiological predisposition for social orienting, seeking social contact, and maintaining social interaction—manifests in early infancy and is hypothesized to be foundational for social communication development in typical and atypical populations. However, the lack of infant social‐motivation measures has hindered delineation of associations between infant social motivation, other early‐arising social abilities such as joint attention, and language outcomes. To investigate how infant social motivation contributes to joint attention and language, this study utilizes a mixed longitudinal sample of 741 infants at high (HL = 515) and low (LL = 226) likelihood for ASD. Using moderated nonlinear factor analysis (MNLFA), we incorporated items from parent‐report measures to establish a novel latent factor model of infant social motivation that exhibits measurement invariance by age, sex, and familial ASD likelihood. We then examined developmental associations between 6‐ and 12‐month social motivation, joint attention at 12–15 months, and language at 24 months of age. On average, greater social‐motivation growth from 6–12 months was associated with greater initiating joint attention (IJA) and trend‐level increases in sophistication of responding to joint attention (RJA). IJA and RJA were both positively associated with 24‐month language abilities. There were no additional associations between social motivation and future language in our path model. These findings substantiate a novel, theoretically driven approach to modeling social motivation and suggest a developmental cascade through which social motivation impacts other foundational skills. These findings have implications for the timing and nature of intervention targets to support social communication development in infancy.

Highlights

We describe a novel, theoretically based model of infant social motivation wherein multiple parent‐reported indicators contribute to a unitary latent social‐motivation factor.

Analyses revealed social‐motivation factor scores exhibited measurement invariance for a longitudinal sample of infants at high and low familial ASD likelihood.

Social‐motivation growth from ages 6–12 months is associated with better 12−15‐month joint attention abilities, which in turn are associated with greater 24‐month language skills.

Findings inform timing and targets of potential interventions to support healthy social communication in the first year of life.
Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 level and its significance in COVID‐19 and other diseases patients
Authors: Kamthe Dipanjali Dhananjay , Sarangkar Swapnil Dilip , Dalvi Manali Suresh , Gosavi Netra Arun , Nikam Vandana Sandeep
Published: October 2022

Background

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expressions and its modulation are of great interest as being a key receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV2) and the protective arm of the rennin‐angiotensin axis, maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. However, ACE2 expressions and their modulation in the healthy and disease background are yet to be explored.

Method

We performed a meta‐analysis, extracting the data for ACE2 expression in human subjects with various diseases, including SARS‐CoV2 infection without or with co‐morbidity. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Out of 203 studies, 39 met the inclusion criteria with SARS‐CoV2 patients without co‐morbidity, SARS‐CoV2 patients with co‐morbidity, cardiovascular (CVD) patients, diabetes patients, kidney disorders patients, pulmonary disease patients, and other viral infections patients.

Results

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 expression was significantly increased in all diseases. There was an elevated level of ACE2, especially membrane‐bound ACE2, in COVID‐19 patients compared to healthy controls. A statistically significant increase in ACE2 expression was observed in CVD patients and patients with other viral diseases compared to healthy subjects. Moreover, subgroup analysis of ACE2 expression as soluble and membrane‐bound ACE2 revealed a remarkable increase in membrane‐bound ACE2 in CVD patients, patients with viral infection compared to soluble ACE2 and pooled standard mean difference (SMD) with the random‐effects model was 0.37 and 2.23 respectively.

Conclusion

It was observed that utilizing the ACE2 by SARS‐CoV2 for its entry and its consequence leads to several complications. So there is a need to investigate the underlying mechanism along with novel therapeutic strategies.
Insights into the population dynamics of Anastrepha obliqua and Anastrepha ludens in the neotropical limits of Mexico
Authors: Vanoye‐Eligio Venancio , de la Luz Vázquez‐Sauceda María , Chacón‐Hernández Julio César , Rocandio‐Rodríguez Mario , Rosas‐Mejía Madai , Vanoye‐Eligio Maximiliano
Published: October 2022

Anastrepha obliqua Macquart and Anastrepha ludens Loew (Diptera: Tephritidae) represent persistent pests of quarantine significance affecting mango and citrus agroecosystems, respectively, in Mexico. We aimed to analyze the population dynamics of A. obliqua and A. ludens and the effects of endogenous and exogenous factors on the population regulation in the neotropical limits of Mexico. We explored endogenous dynamics of A. obliqua and A. ludens populations based on short sequences of time series data of adult captures from 2008 to 2010. Moreover, we analyzed the relationship between the rate of population change () and population density as an endogenous factor, and temperature, precipitation, fruit availability, and the North Atlantic Oscillation index (NAOi) as exogenous factors. Autocorrelation and partial‐rate correlation functions were used to evaluate the endogenous dynamics of populations. Generalized least square models including autoregressive–moving‐average structures were performed to assess the relationships between the and endogenous and exogenous factors. Results revealed annual patterns in the population fluctuation for both Anastrepha obliqua and A. ludens. Anastrepha obliqua and A. ludens population peaks occurred from August to September–October, and from January to July, respectively. The dynamics of the suggest persistent pest populations modulated by a first‐order feedback structure, although higher orders in feedback structures were also exhibited. Significant relationships between and population density, temperature, fruit availability, and the NAOi were observed. These findings may be a technical and ecological basis to design environmentally friendly strategies against wild populations under an area‐wide integrated pest management (AW‐IPM) approach.
Ethnic‐specific infant care practices and infant mortality in late Imperial Russia
Authors: Natkhov Timur , Vasilenok Natalia
Published: October 2022

The Russian Empire had the highest infant mortality rate in Europe at the beginning of the twentieth century. Using a variety of official statistical sources and qualitative evidence, this paper documents uniquely high infant mortality among ethnic Russians. In contrast, among other ethnic groups of the empire, infant mortality rates did not exceed those of the European countries by much. The evidence suggests that the explanation for the Russian infant mortality pattern was ethnic‐specific infant care practices, such as the early introduction of solid food, which increased the incidence of lethal gastrointestinal diseases. Our findings highlight the importance of traditional infant feeding practices in mortality in pre‐industrial societies.
One country, two currencies: The adoption of the Hong Kong currency board, 1983
Authors: Rognes Asa Malmstrom , Schenk Catherine R.
Published: October 2022

Currency boards have had an enduring attraction as a solution to exchange rate and monetary credibility for small open economies, despite few successful examples. In this context, the case of Hong Kong stands out for its longevity; it survived the handover to China, the Asian financial crises in 1997, and the global crises in 2007–8 and 2020. The 1983 currency crisis and the decision to link the exchange rate to the US$ is usually treated as an outcome of local political uncertainty due to the Sino‐British negotiations which set the framework for how Hong Kong would fit with the rest of China after 1997. We present fresh archival evidence from Hong Kong and London to reveal the year‐long debates over Hong Kong's monetary system after a drop in the exchange rate in September 1982 and to demonstrate how most of the protagonists in Hong Kong and London came only reluctantly to accept the idea of re‐pegging the dollar once public expectations had been raised. We also show how the mixture of currency and banking instability affected the terms of the negotiations in 1982 and 1983 and set the framework for the one country, two currencies system that prevails today.