bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-Associated B cells predict impaired humoral immunity after COVID-19 vaccination in patients receiving immune checkpoint blockade
Authors: Yam-Puc Juan Carlos , Hosseini Zhaleh , Horner Emily C. , Gerber Pehuén Pereyra , Beristain-Covarrubias Nonantzin , Hughes Robert , Lulla Aleksei , Rust Maria , Boston Rebecca H. , Ali Magda , Fischer Katrin , Simmons-Rosello Edward , O’Reilly Martin , Robson Harry , Booth Lucy H. , Kahanawita Lakmini , Correa-Noguera Andrea , Ceron-Gutierrez Lourdes , Keller Baerbel , Craxton Andrew , Anderson Georgina S.F. , Sun Xiao-Ming , Elmer Anne , Saunders Caroline , Bermperi Areti , Jose Sherly , Kingston Nathalie , Mulroney Thomas ,   CITIID-NIHR COVID-19 BioResource Collaboration, Chapman Mike , Grigoriadou Sofia , MacFarlane Marion , Willis Anne E. , Patil Kiran R. , Spencer Sarah , Staples Emily , Warnatz Klaus , Buckland Matthew S. , Hollfelder Florian , Hyvönen Marko , Döffinger Rainer , Parkinson Christine , Lear Sara , Matheson Nicholas J. , Thaventhiran James E. D.
Published: September 2022

Age-associated B cells (ABCs) accumulate with age, as well as in individuals with a range of immunological dyscrasias. These include patients with cancer treated with immune checkpoint blockade and patients with inborn errors of immunity. In this study, we sought to determine whether ABCs found in all these conditions are similar, and whether they enhance or detract from the response to COVID-19 vaccination. We use single cell RNA sequencing to show that ABCs arising from distinct aetiologies have common transcriptional profiles and may be subdivided according to the expression of genes associated with different immune functions, such as the autoimmune regulator (AIRE). Next, we perform detailed longitudinal profiling of the COVID-19 vaccination response in patients and controls. We show that high pre-vaccination ABC frequency correlates with decreased levels of antigen-specific memory B cells, and reduced magnitude and longevity of neutralising capacity against SARS-CoV-2 virus. Potentially contributing to this, ABCs express high levels of the inhibitory FcγRIIB receptor and are distinctive in their ability to bind immune complexes. This could contribute to diminished vaccine responses either directly as result of inhibitory signalling or indirectly via enhanced clearance of immune complexed-antigen. Expansion of ABCs may therefore serve as a biomarker identifying individuals at risk of a suboptimal response to COVID-19 vaccination.
Presence of cells in the polyaneuploid cancer cell (PACC) state predicts risk of recurrence in prostate cancer
Authors: Trabzonlu Levent , Pienta Kenneth J. , Trock Bruce J. , De Marzo Angelo M. , Amend Sarah R.
Published: September 2022

Background

The non-proliferating polyaneuploid cancer cell (PACC) state is associated with therapeutic resistance in cancer. A subset of cancer cells enters the PACC state by polyploidization and acts as cancer stem cells by undergoing depolyploidization and repopulating the tumor cell population after the therapeutic stress is relieved. Our aim was to systematically assess the presence and importance of this entity in men who underwent radical prostatectomy with curative intent to treat their presumed localized PCa.

Materials and Methods

Men with NCCN intermediate- or high-risk PCa who underwent radical prostatectomy l from 2007-2015 and who did not receive neoadjuvant treatment were included. From the cohort of 2159 patients, the analysis focused on a subcohort of 209 patients was selected, and 38 cases. Prostate tissue microarrays (TMAs) were prepared from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks of the radical prostatectomy specimens. A total of 2807 tissue samples of matched normal/benign and cancer were arrayed in 9 TMA blocks. The presence of PACCs and the number of PACCs on each core were noted.

Results

The total number of PACCs and the total number of cores with PACCs were significantly correlated with increasing Gleason score (p=0.0004) and increasing CAPRA-S (p=0.004), but no other variables. In univariate proportional hazards models of metastasis-free survival, year of surgery, Gleason score (9-10 vs. 7-8), pathology stage, CAPRA-S, total PACCs, and cores positive for PACCs were all statistically significant. The multivariable models with PACCs that gave the best fit included CAPRA-S. Adding either total PACCs or cores positive for PACCs to CAPRA-S both significantly improved model fit compared to CAPRA-S alone.

Conclusion

Our findings show that the number of PACCs and the number of cores positive for PACCs are statistically significant prognostic factors for metastasis-free survival, after adjusting for CAPRA-S, in a case-cohort of intermediate- or high-risk men who underwent radical prostatectomy. In addition, despite the small number of men with complete data to evaluate time to mCRPC, the total number of PACCs was a statistically significant predictor of mCRPC in univariate analysis, and suggested a prognostic effect even after adjusting for CAPRA-S.
APOE ε4 gene dose effect on imaging and blood biomarkers of glial reactivity and β-amyloid pathology
Authors: Snellman Anniina , Ekblad Laura L. , Tuisku Jouni , Koivumäki Mikko , Ashton Nicholas J. , Lantero-Rodriguez Juan , Karikari Thomas K. , Helin Semi , Bucci Marco , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Parkkola Riitta , Karrasch Mira , Schöll Michael , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Rinne Juha O.
Published: September 2022

Increased reactivity of microglia and astrocytes is known to be present at various stages of the Alzheimer’s continuum but their relationship with core Alzheimer’s disease pathology in the preclinical stages is less clear. We investigated glial reactivity and β-amyloid pathology in cognitively unimpaired APOE ε4 homozygotes, heterozygotes and non-carriers using 11C-PK11195 PET (targeting 18-kDa translocator protein), 11C-PiB PET (targeting β-amyloid), brain MRI, and a preclinical cognitive composite (APCC). Plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) by and plasma Aβ1-42/1-40 were measured using single molecule array and immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry, respectively. We observed that (i)11C-PiB-binding was significantly higher in APOE ε4 homozygotes compared with non-carriers in all evaluated regions, (ii) regional 11C-PK11195-binding did not differ between the APOE ε4 gene doses or between Aβ-positive and -negative individuals, and (iii) higher 11C-PK11195-binding and plasma GFAP were associated with lower hippocampal volume, and elevated 11C-PiB-binding and plasma GFAP concentration with lower APCC scores. Increased glial reactivity might emerge in later stages of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease in parallel with early neurodegenerative changes.
Inferring causal genes at type 2 diabetes GWAS loci through chromosome interactions in islet cells
Authors: Torres Jason M. , Sun Han , Nylander Vibe , Downes Damien J. , van de Bunt Martijn , McCarthy Mark I. , Hughes Jim R. , Gloyn Anna L.
Published: September 2022

Resolving causal genes for type 2 diabetes at loci implicated by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) requires integrating functional genomic data from relevant cell types. Chromatin features in endocrine cells of the pancreatic islet are particularly informative and recent studies leveraging chromosome conformation capture (3C) with Hi-C based methods have elucidated regulatory mechanisms in human islets. However, these genome-wide approaches are less sensitive and afford lower resolution than methods that target specific loci. To gauge the extent to which targeted 3C further resolves chromatin-mediated regulatory mechanisms at GWAS loci, we generated interaction profiles at 23 loci using next-generation (NG) Capture-C in a human beta cell model (EndoC-βH1) and contrasted these maps with Hi-C maps in EndoC-βH1 cells and human islets and a promoter capture Hi-C map in human islets. We found improvements in assay sensitivity of up to 33-fold and resolved 4.8X more chromatin interactions. At a subset of 18 loci with 25 co-localised GWAS and eQTL signals, NG Capture-C interactions implicated effector transcripts at five additional genetic signals relative to promoter capture Hi-C through physical contact with gene promoters. Therefore, high resolution chromatin interaction profiles at selectively targeted loci can complement genome- and promoter-wide maps.
TLK1-mediated RAD54 phosphorylation spatio-temporally regulates Homologous Recombination Repair
Authors: Ghosh Ishita , Kwon Youngho , Shabestari Aida Badamchi , Chikhale Rupesh , Chen Jing , Wiese Claudia , Sung Patrick , Benedetti Arrigo De
Published: September 2022

Environmental agents like ionizing radiation (IR) and chemotherapeutic drugs can cause severe damage to the DNA, often in the form of double-strand breaks (DSBs). Remaining unrepaired, DSBs can lead to chromosomal rearrangements, and cell death. One major error-free pathway to repair DSBs is homologous recombination repair (HRR). Tousled-like kinase 1 (TLK1), a Ser/Thr kinase that regulates the DNA damage checkpoint, has been found to interact with RAD54, a central DNA translocase in HRR. To determine how TLK1 regulates RAD54, we inhibited or depleted TLK1 and tested how this impacts HRR in human cells using a ISce-I-GR-DsRed fused reporter endonuclease. Our results show that TLK1 phosphorylates RAD54 at three threonines (T41, T59, and T700), two of which are located within its N-terminal domain (NTD) and one is located within its C-terminal domain (CTD). Phosphorylation at both T41 and T59 supports HRR and protects cells from DNA DSB damage. In contrast, phosphorylation of T700 leads to impaired HRR and engenders no protection to cells from cytotoxicity and rather results in repair delay. Further, our work enlightens the effect of RAD54-T700 (RAD54-CTD) phosphorylation by TLK1 in mammalian system and reveals a new site of interaction with RAD51.
Cryo-EM of prion strains from the same genotype of host identifies conformational determinants
Authors: Hoyt Forrest , Alam Parvez , Artikis Efrosini , Schwartz Cindi L. , Hughson Andrew G. , Race Brent , Baune Chase , Raymond Gregory J. , Baron Gerald S. , Kraus Allison , Caughey Byron
Published: September 2022

Prion strains in a given type of mammalian host are distinguished by differences in clinical presentation, neuropathological lesions, survival time, and characteristics of the infecting prion protein (PrP) assemblies. Near-atomic structures of prions from two host species with different PrP sequences have been determined but comparisons of distinct prion strains of the same amino acid sequence are needed to identify purely conformational determinants of prion strain characteristics. Here we report a 3.2 Å resolution cryogenic electron microscopy-based structure of the 22L prion strain purified from the brains of mice engineered to express only PrP lacking glycophosphatidylinositol anchors (a22L). Comparison of this near-atomic structure to our recently determined structure of the aRML strain propagated in the same inbred mouse reveals that these two mouse prion strains have distinct conformational templates for growth via incorporation of PrP molecules of the same sequence. Both a22L and aRML are assembled as stacks of PrP molecules forming parallel in-register intermolecular β-sheets and intervening loops, with single monomers spanning the ordered fibril core. Each monomer shares an N-terminal steric zipper, three major β-arches, and an overall V-shape, but the details of these and other conformational features differ markedly. Thus, variations in shared conformational motifs within a parallel in-register β-stack fibril architecture provide a structural basis for prion strain differentiation within a single host genotype.
RNA processing/modifying enzymes play key roles in the response to thermospermine in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Tanaka Takahiro , Koyama Daiki , Saraumi Mitsuru , Motose Hiroyasu , Takahashi Taku
Published: September 2022

Thermospermine acts in negative regulation of xylem differentiation through enhancing mRNA translation of the members of the SAC51 gene family in Arabidopsis. These mRNAs contain conserved upstream open-reading-frames (uORFs) that are inhibitory to the main ORF translation. To address the mode of action of thermospermine in this process, we have isolated mutants that are insensitive to thermospermine, named its. We show here that four genes responsible for the mutants, its1 to its4, encode a homologue of SPOUT RNA methyl transferase, an rRNA pseudouridine synthase CBF5/NAP57, a putative spliceosome disassembly factor STIPL1/NTR1, and a plant-specific RNA-binding protein PHIP1, respectively. While these mutants except its1 are almost normal in appearance, they enhance the dwarf phenotype of a mutant of ACL5 defective in thermospermine biosynthesis, resulting in tiny-sized plants reminiscent of a double knockout of ACL5 and SACL3, a member of the SAC51 family. We confirmed that the GUS reporter activity from the SAC51 5’-GUS fusion transcript was severely reduced in all of these mutants. These results unveil the importance of RNA processing and modification for the translation of transcripts containing regulatory uORFs.
Accurate Detection of Proteins in Cryo-Electron Tomograms from Sparse Labels
Authors: Huang Qinwen , Zhou Ye , Liu Hsuan-Fu , Bartesaghi Alberto
Published: September 2022

Cryo-electron tomography (CET) combined with sub-volume averaging (SVA), is currently the only imaging technique capable of determining the structure of proteins imaged inside cells at molecular resolution. To obtain high-resolution reconstructions, sub-volumes containing randomly distributed copies of the protein of interest need be identified, extracted and subjected to SVA, making accurate particle detection a critical step in the CET processing pipeline. Classical template-based methods have high false-positive rates due to the very low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) typical of CET volumes, while more recent neural-network based detection algorithms require extensive labeling, are very slow to train and can take days to run. To address these issues, we propose a novel particle detection framework that uses positive-unlabeled learning and exploits the unique properties of 3D tomograms to improve detection performance. Our end-to-end framework is able to identify particles within minutes when trained using a single partially labeled tomogram. We conducted extensive validation experiments on two challenging CET datasets representing different experimental conditions, and observed more than 10% improvement in mAP and F1 scores compared to existing particle picking methods used in CET. Ultimately, the proposed framework will facilitate the structural analysis of challenging biomedical targets imaged within the native environment of cells.
T cell-specific P2RX7 favors lung parenchymal CD4+ T cell accumulation in response to severe lung infections
Authors: Santiago-Carvalho Igor , Almeida-Santos Gislane , Macedo Bruna Gois , Barbosa-Bomfim Caio Cesar , Almeida Fabricio Moreira , Cione Marcos Vinícios Pinheiro , Vardam-Kaur Trupti , Masuda Mia , Van Dijk Sarah , Melo Bruno Marcel , do Nascimento Rogério Silva , Souza Rebeka da Conceição , Peixoto-Rangel Alba Lucínia , Coutinho-Silva Robson , Hirata Mario H. , Alves-Filho José Carlos , Álvarez José Maria , Lassounskaia Elena , da Silva Henrique Borges , D’Império-Lima Maria Regina
Published: September 2022

CD4+ T cells are key components of the immune response during lung infections and can mediate protection against tuberculosis (TB) or influenza. However, CD4+ T cells can also promote lung pathology during these infections, making it unclear how these cells control such discrepant effects. Using mouse models of hypervirulent TB and influenza, we observed that exaggerated accumulation of parenchymal CD4+ T cells promotes lung damage. Low numbers of lung CD4+ T cells, in contrast, are sufficient to protect against hypervirulent TB. In both situations, lung CD4+ T cell accumulation is mediated by CD4+ T cell-specific expression of the extracellular ATP (eATP) receptor P2RX7. P2RX7 upregulation in lung CD4+ T cells promotes expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR3 and favors in situ proliferation. Our findings suggest that direct sensing of lung eATP by CD4+ T cells is critical to induce tissue CD4+ T cell accumulation and pathology during lung infections.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Evaluation of mouse behavioral responses to nutritive versus nonnutritive sugar using a deep learning-based 3D real-time pose estimation system
Authors: Kim Jineun , Kim Dae-gun , Jung Wongyo , Suh Greg S. B.
Published: September 2022

Animals are able to detect the nutritional content of sugar independently of taste. When given a choice between nutritive sugar and nonnutritive sugar, animals develop a preference for nutritive sugar over nonnutritive sugar during a period of food deprivation1-5. To quantify behavioral features during an episode of licking nutritive versus nonnutritive sugar, we implemented a multi-vision, deep learning-based 3D pose estimation system, termed the AI Vision Analysis for Three-dimensional Action in Real-Time (AVATAR)6. Using this method, we found that mice exhibit significantly different approach behavioral responses toward nutritive sugar versus nonnutritive sugar even before licking a sugar solution. Notably, the behavioral sequences during approach toward nutritive versus nonnutritive sugar became significantly different over time. These results suggest that the nutritional value of sugar not only promotes its consumption, but also elicits distinct repertoires of feeding behavior in deprived mice.
Development of an Agrobacterium-delivered codon-optimized CRISPR/Cas9 system for chickpea genome editing
Authors: Gupta Santosh Kumar , Vishwakarma Niraj Kumar , Malakar Paheli , Vanaspati Poonam , Sharma Nilesh Kumar , Chattopadhyay Debasis
Published: September 2022

Chickpea is considered recalcitrant to in vitro tissue culture. The Clustered, Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) based genome editing in chickpea can remove the bottleneck of limited genetic variation in this cash crop rich in nutrients and protein. However, the generation of stable mutant lines using CRISPR/Cas9 requires efficient and highly reproducible transformation approaches. We modified a binary vector pPZP200 by introducing a codon-optimized Cas9 gene for chickpea and the promoters of Medicago truncatula U6 snRNA for expressing guide RNA targeted to the Phytoene Desaturase (PDS) gene. The dissected single cotyledons with half embryo of chickpea were used as explants for genetic transformation. A single gRNA was found sufficient to achieve high efficiency (42%) editing with the generation of PDS mutants with albino phenotypes. A simple, rapid, highly reproducible, stable transformation and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing system for chickpea was established. For the first time, this study aimed to demonstrate this system’s applicability by performing a gene knockout of the chickpea phytoene desaturase gene (CaPDS) in stable shoots using an improved chickpea transformation protocol.
A STIM dependent dopamine-insulin axis maintains the larval drive to feed and grow in Drosophila
Authors: Kasturacharya Nandashree , Dhall Jasmine Kaur , Hasan Gaiti
Published: September 2022

Appropriate nutritional intake is essential for organismal survival. In holometabolous insects such asDrosophila melanogaster, the quality and quantity of food ingested as larvae determines adult size and fecundity. Here we have identified a subset of dopaminergic neurons (THD’) that maintain the larval motivation to feed. Dopamine release from these neurons requires the ER Ca2+sensor STIM. Larvae with loss of STIM stop feeding and growing, whereas expression of STIM in THD’ neurons rescues feeding, growth and viability of STIM null mutants. Moreover STIM is essential for maintaining excitability and release of dopamine from THD’ neurons. Optogenetic stimulation of THD’ neurons activated neuropeptidergic cells, including median neuro secretory cells that secrete insulin-like peptides. Loss of STIM in THD’ cells alters the developmental profile of specific insulin-like peptides including ilp3. Loss of ilp3 partially rescues STIM null mutants and inappropriate expression of ilp3 in larvae affects development and growth. In summary we have identified a novel STIM-dependent function of dopamine neurons that modulates developmental changes in larval feeding behaviour and growth.

Author summary

The ability to feed appropriately when hungry is an essential feature for organismal survival and is under complex neuronal control. An array of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides integrate external and internal signalling cues to initiate, maintain and terminate feeding. In adult vertebrates and invertebrates dopamine serves as a reward cue for motor actions, including feeding. Larvae of holometabolous insects, includingDrosophila melanogaster, feed and grow constantly followed by gradual cessation of feeding, once sufficient growth is achieved for transition to the next stages of development. Here we identified a subset of larval dopaminergic neurons inDrosophila melanogaster, activity in which maintains continuous feeding in larvae. By analysis of a null mutant we show that these neurons require the Stromal Interaction Molecule (STIM) an ER Ca2+sensor, to maintain excitability. In turn they modulate activity of certain neuropeptidergic cells. Among these are the median neurosecretory cells (MNSc) that synthesize and secrete insulin-like peptides including ilp3. The identified dopaminergic neurons dysregulate the normal pattern of larval ilp3 expression leading to premature cessation of feeding and growth. Overall, our study identified a simple dopamine modulated mechanism for feeding and growth whose manipulation could be useful for model organism studies related to feeding disorders, obesity and diabetes.
Opposing roles for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14 in myofibroblast differentiation and function
Authors: Carter Edward P , Yoneten Kubra K , Gavara Nuria , Tyler Eleanor J , Gauthier Valentine , Murray Elizabeth R , Cameron Angus J , Pearce Oliver , Grose Richard P
Published: September 2022

Crosstalk between cancer and stellate cells is pivotal in pancreatic cancer, resulting in differentiation of stellate cells into myofibroblasts that drive. To assess co-operative mechanisms in a 3D context, we generated chimeric spheroids using human and mouse cancer and stellate cells. Species-specific deconvolution of bulk-RNA sequencing data revealed cell type-specific transcriptomes underpinning invasion. This dataset highlighted stellate-specific expression of the collagen-processing enzymes ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14. While both proteases contributed to collagen-processing, loss of ADAMTS2 reduced, while loss of ADAMTS14 promoted, myofibroblast differentiation and invasion. Proteomic analysis revealed enrichment of known, protease-specific substrates following knockdown of either protease. Functional analysis demonstrated that these two enzymes regulate myofibroblast differentiation through opposing roles in regulating transforming growth factor β availability, acting on protease-specific substrates, SERPINE2 and Fibulin2, for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14, respectively. Showcasing a broader complexity for these enzymes, we uncover a novel regulatory axis governing malignant behaviour of the pancreatic cancer stroma.
Correlates of heroin use, pharmaceutical fentanyl misuse, and dual heroin-fentanyl use: evidence from the USA
Authors: Kelly Brian C. , Vuolo Mike
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The emergence of fentanyl has deepened concerns about the opioid crisis. The shift has created new distinctions in patterns of opioid use, which may be important for prevention and intervention. This paper aims to examine sociodemographic correlates as well as health and substance use characteristics of different groups of opioid users.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used the 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health to examine distinctions between groups (n = 11,142) of individuals who misuse prescription opioids, use heroin but not fentanyl, misuse pharmaceutical fentanyl but not heroin and use both heroin and fentanyl. Multinomial and logistic regression models were used to identify these distinctions.

Findings

Few sociodemographic differences emerged between the prescription opioid group and pharmaceutical fentanyl misuse group. While those who misuse fentanyl have higher odds of using other drugs and experiencing certain mental health problems than those misusing prescription pills, both the heroin and fentanyl–heroin use groups reported considerably poorer health and substance use indicators relative to those who solely misuse fentanyl. It is also notable that both heroin use groups are more highly associated with cocaine and methamphetamine use than those misusing fentanyl alone.

Research limitations/implications

While this study identifies important distinctions between the opioid use groups studied, individuals using both heroin and pharmaceutical fentanyl report the poorest health and substance use characteristics. Important differences between the fentanyl-only group and the group who consume both drugs may have implications for prevention, intervention and clinical work amid shifting patterns of opioid use.

Practical implications

Important differences between the fentanyl-only group and the group who consume both drugs may have implications for prevention, intervention and clinical work amid shifting patterns of opioid use.

Originality/value

This study highlights distinctions between pharmaceutical fentanyl users, heroin users and users of both substances.
Leveraging digital and relational governance mechanisms in developing trusting supply chain relationships: the interplay between blockchain and norm of solidarity
Authors: Xu Dong , Dai Jing , Paulraj Antony , Chong Alain Yee-Loong
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Drawing on the signaling theory and the relational exchange theory, this study investigates how buyer–supplier trust is influenced through the congruence and incongruence between blockchain and norm of solidarity. The moderating role of technology uncertainty is further examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey data of 110 Chinese firms, this study empirically tests not only the combined effect of blockchain and norm of solidarity on trust, but also how this combined effect is moderated by technology uncertainty. The proposed hypotheses are tested using the polynomial regression analysis and the response surface methodology.

Findings

The results suggest that trust increases along with an increasing congruence between blockchain and norm or solidarity, but in a diminishing rate (i.e. an inverted U-shaped relationship). Simultaneously, incongruence between blockchain and norm of solidarity can also guarantee sufficient trust (i.e. a U-shaped relationship). Moreover, technology uncertainty overturns the inverted U-shaped relationship between blockchain and norm of solidarity congruence on trust into a U-shaped relationship and nullifies the U-shaped relationship between blockchain and norm of solidarity incongruence on trust.

Originality/value

This study enriches supply chain governance literature by introducing the emerging blockchain governance and examining the blockchain governance's interplay with a conventional relational norm. The study emphasizes that the combined effects of these two are quite complex. Blockchain and norm of solidarity can offset each other’s limitations when both are at low to moderate levels. But simultaneous pursuit of both high blockchain and norm has only limited marginal benefits. Furthermore, the study also highlights the importance of technology uncertainty under which the combined effects between the two governance mechanisms vary. Collectively, the results provide nuanced insights into the design of supply chain governance portfolios in the digital era.
Impact of promoters’ ownership and competition on firm’s value: a study of listed SMEs
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Rastogi Shailesh
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The public listing of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is a recent phenomenon in India, started in 2012. Such a paradigm shift for SMEs has altered the ownership structure of these firms. In addition, the listing has provided a notable status to SMEs, leading to a shift in exposure to market competition. Literature signifies that these changing dynamics are likely to impact the firm value. This study aims to examine the effects of promoters’ ownership and market competition on the firm value of listed SMEs in India. Ownership concentration (promoters’ ownership) is investigated as the primary proxy for internal governance mechanism, while market competition is investigated as an external form of firm regulation.

Design/methodology/approach

Three years of panel data from 2018 to 2020 of 80 listed Indian SMEs are used to conduct the analysis. The fixed effects model and cluster robust standard errors captured the detected fixed effects while adjusting for heteroskedasticity and autocorrelation. Besides, moderation analysis is conducted to test if competition regulates the relation between promoters’ ownership and firm value.

Findings

Promoters’ ownership does not impact the firm value significantly. However, market competition is significant and negatively drives the firm’s value. So, the market competition provides external regulation and coerces the firms to behave well to conserve the firm value. Finally, competition does not regulate the relationship between ownership effects and firm value. Therefore, the study contrasts the belief that the benefits of internal governance (especially promoters’ ownership) for firms in competitive economies are subject to market competition.

Originality/value

The study establishes the possibility of an integrated approach where internal and external governance mechanisms coexist to drive the firm value and endorses the same. The study is relevant to shareholders, practitioners, lawmakers and academics.
The dark side of AR usage on customers’ online purchase
Authors: Zheng Shuman , Li Dongjin
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The usage of augmented reality (AR) in online shopping websites provides a “try-on” experience for consumers. AR technology combines the virtual and real world. Previous studies have addressed AR usage’s benefits to consumers’ online shopping experience. However, this study aims to explore the dark side of AR usage in consumers’ online purchasing process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct six experiments to examine whether AR usage leads to adverse effects on consumers’ purchase intention and explain the mechanism of its dark side.

Findings

The result shows that AR usage in online shopping websites reduces consumers’ purchase intention. The authors further reveal that the usage of AR leads to more vital psychological ownership of the product, and psychological ownership positively relates to cognitive conflict. Cognitive conflict explains the negative influence of AR usage on purchase intention.

Originality/value

First, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to explore the impact of embedded AR function of websites on consumers’ decision-making process. Also, it is the first study on the application of AR in a real shopping scene, which makes the study of AR close to reality. Second, psychological ownership is introduced in this study. Although there are many types of research on psychological ownership, few scholars have explored it in AR research. Third, most studies stress the advantages of using AR during purchase; this research demonstrates that embedding AR function in a shopping website may negatively affect purchase intention.
A behavioral approach to administrative reform: a case study of promoting proactive administration in South Korea
Authors: Kim Pan Suk
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The South Korean government launched the proactive administration initiative in mid-2017, which has been widely implemented throughout the public sector. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to review a behavioral approach to promote proactive administration in the South Korean government.

Design/methodology/approach

The research questions are as follows: (1) How did the South Korean government initiate a behavioral approach to administrative reform by promoting proactive administration? (2) What systems or mechanisms has the South Korean government utilized to promote proactive administration? (3) What kind of constraints did the government face in the process of administrative reform and how did it resolve them? (4) What was the preliminary reaction to or evaluation of such reforms in public administration communities?

Findings

Although it is still too early to evaluate the overall impact of administrative reform to promote proactive administration on civil servants’ behavior, it has nonetheless contributed greatly to the substantial change in perception that public officials in the administrative field should pursue their work as actively as they can.

Originality/value

This study is meaningful because while many countries have promoted administrative reforms such as structural reorganization, downsizing of human resources, cutback management and fiscal innovation, privatization, regulatory reform and promotion of digital government, cases of behavioral innovation, such as proactive administration, have been relatively scarce. Since a behavioral approach to administrative reform would be essential in many countries, this paper will serve as a useful reference for the consideration of their governments.
Ambiguities of Imperial Mourning: The Patcham Chattri
Authors: Barringer Tim
Published: September 2022

The Chattri Indian Monument, erected upon the Sussex Downs above Brighton in 1921, commemorates the Hindu and Sikh soldiers who died in hospitals in Brighton as a result of wounds received fighting for the British Empire in the First World War. The form and name of the monument reference the chatrī, an architectural element characteristic of historical palaces and tombs of northern India. The monument, designed by an Indian architect, Elias Henriques, was intended by the India Office and officials in Brighton to be legible as a hybrid structure, both Indian and British. Conceived as a respectful act of eulogy in honour of Indian soldiers who died in the imperial forces, it nonetheless enshrines the ideology of white supremacy upon which the British Empire rested, and thus embodies the ambiguities of imperial mourning.
Worlding on the Hudson: Frederic Church and Global Histories of Art
Authors: Roberts Mary
Published: September 2022

The ‘Persian’ interior of the American landscape painter Frederic Church is a place crowded with paintings, objects and architectural ornament orchestrated as an installation that the artist both accrued and designed over a thirty‐year period. This regional orientalism, with its cosmopolitan claims and internationally networked cultural politics, is located outside Britain's geographic imperium but within its economic networks, unsettling the boundaries of our nationally circumscribed histories of art. Church's interior was informed by his own experience of travel within the frontiers of the Ottoman Empire, and was formed through a transatlantic web of British, French and American artists, dealers and collectors who were organizing and codifying Islamic art for Western consumers and audiences. But many of these objects that travelled across cultures brought with them a range of cultural narratives that only come into view if we expand the geographic scope of our art history beyond the transatlantic nexus to engage contemporaneous networks of state making and art making in the Islamicate world.
To Let You Understand: Franki Raffles, Photography and Feminist Solidarity
Authors: Spencer Catherine
Published: September 2022

This essay examines how images by the feminist documentary photographer Franki Raffles illuminate the possibilities for – and challenges involved in – the instigation of feminist solidary between different geographic sites. Drawing on Chandra Talpade Mohanty's distinction between ‘solidarity’ and ‘sisterhood’, whereby the former signals a process of active struggle that recognizes, rather than erases, differential experience, it argues that Raffles sought to examine how gender and labour coalesced across a number of sites – specifically, Scotland, the Soviet Union (Russia, Georgia and Ukraine) Israel and Palestine – while remaining attentive to specific socio‐political and cultural contexts. It situates Raffles's work in relation to the seismic geopolitical shifts that began in 1989, particularly the collapse of the Soviet Union and the acceleration of globalization. Raffles's work underscores the importance of feminist methodologies for analysing the relationship between the constructs ‘British art’ and ‘the global’, through her photographic examination of how globalizing processes led to gendered divisions and inequalities of labour.
Detailing the process of identifying and the outcomes of efforts to address lawfully “owed” DNA
Authors: Lovell Rachel E.
Published: September 2022

While missed DNA sample collection has been an identified problem for decades, there has yet to be a scholarly publication related to a large‐scale effort to address lawfully “owed” DNA outside of a prison system. Lawfully owed DNA samples are DNA samples that legally should have been collected and entered into Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) based upon a qualifying offense but were not. As the first jurisdiction funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance's Sexual Assault Kit Initiative to address lawfully owed DNA, this case study fills this knowledge gap by answering four key questions: What was the scope of the problem in this jurisdiction? What was the process by which individuals who owe were identified? What were the outcomes of these efforts? And what were the lessons learned and recommendations for other jurisdictions? Findings from this case study indicate widespread DNA sample collection issues in this jurisdiction, with nearly 15,000 identified as owing DNA over the span of approximately 7 years. Efforts to collect lawfully owed DNA samples from those who owe over a duration of approximately five and a half years have resulted in about one‐fifth now being in CODIS, about 4% of these newly collected DNA profiles resulted in a forensic hit, and a quarter of those hits have resulted in a prosecution. This study serves as an important blueprint for other jurisdictions and underscores the importance of having effective policies and practices to help ensure that all who should lawfully have their DNA collected and uploaded into CODIS do.
Effects of Ligustrum robustum (Rxob.) Blume extract on the quality of peanut and palm oils during storage and frying process
Authors: Gao Hao‐Xiang , Chen Nan , He Qiang , Shi Bi , Yu Zhi‐Long , Zeng Wei‐Cai
Published: September 2022

The potential uses of Ligustrum robustum (Rxob.) Blume extract as a natural antioxidant to protect the quality of different oils during storage and frying process were studied. The results showed that L. robustum extract has been shown to retard the decline in the quality of both oils based on the tests of acid value, peroxide value, p‐anisidine value, color, volatile flavor, and fatty acid compositions, and the protective effect of L. robustum extract on the quality of peanut oil was better than that of palm oil. By the component analysis, L. robustum extract was found to have a total phenols content of 140.75 ± 1.52 mg/g, and ligurobustoside C was identified as the main phenolic compound. The thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry results showed that L. robustum extract enhanced the oxidative stability of peanut and palm oils. In addition, Fourier transform infrared results indicated that L. robustum extract had protective effects on the C=C bond and ester bond of oil molecule. Moreover, by using electron spin resonance technique, L. robustum extract showed the ability to inhibit and scavenge alkyl‐free radicals in both oils. The present results suggested that L. robustum extract may protect the quality of oils during the storage and frying process by inhibiting the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids and might be a potential natural antioxidant in the food industry.

Practical Applications

The excellent antioxidant ability of Ligustrum robustum (Rxob.) Blume extract on the oxidation of different oils and its low price indicated that it could be used as a new low‐cost natural antioxidant in oil processing.
Lessons learnt from the global iodinated contrast media shortage in head and neck imaging
Authors: Fiori Timothy , Lisewski Dean , Flukes Stephanie , Wood Chris , Gibson Daren
Published: September 2022

A recent shortage in the global supply of iodinated contrast media (ICM) has required health service providers to review their contrast administration policies and implement strategies to conserve inventory. This article will review the current best practices in head and neck imaging for a variety of common presentations and provide examples where alternative imaging can be considered due to the recent ICM shortage. Ultrasound and MRI techniques can feature heavily in many diagnostic processes in head and neck pathology, and a variety of common presentations can be appropriately investigated through clinical evaluation or naso‐endoscopy. In many instances, for the routine assessment of non‐acute adult and paediatric head and neck presentations, the use of contrast‐enhanced CT can be safely minimised to conserve ICM if required.
Forecasting models for the Chinese macroeconomy in a data‐rich environment: Evidence from large dimensional approximate factor models with mixed‐frequency data
Authors: Zhang Qin , Ni He , Xu Hao
Published: September 2022

Our paper contributes to the nascent literature on forecasting the Chinese macroeconomy in a data‐rich environment. We perform a horse race among a large set of traditional models and two classes of factor models with 251 monthly and 34 quarterly macroeconomic variables over the period from January 2002 to June 2018. We find evidence that mixed‐frequency factor models provide superior forecasts of the CPI, RPI, investment, and consumption when compared to the simple benchmark. During the Global Financial Crisis period, we find little evidence of superiority of factor models over the simple benchmark AR(p) model.
Root and root canal morphology of mandibular second permanent molars in the Gansu province population: A CBCT study
Authors: Guo Qi , Wang Qinxiu , Yang Yaling , Guo Dongmei
Published: September 2022

To study the anatomical characteristics of the root and root canal system of the mandibular second molars in the population of Gansu province, and to provide theoretical and clinical references for improving the success rate of root canal therapy (RCT) of mandibular second molars. The number of roots and root canals, root canal type and pulp chamber height of mandibular second molars were determined by observing cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of people living in Gansu. The most common type of mandibular second molars in the Gansu province population was a double root with three root canals (47.55%), followed by a C‐shaped root (35.56%). There were more females than males with a C‐shaped root (p < 0.05). The most common root canal subtype of the C‐type root was C3 (13.91%). Most of the population (77.11%) had bilateral mandibular second molars with symmetrical root canal morphology. With an increase in age, the height of the pulp chamber decreased significantly. The incidence of root canal variation of the mandibular second molars is relatively high in the population of Gansu province. Preoperative examination with CBCT is essential for mandibular second molars that need RCT to avoid root canal treatment failure and decrease the occurrence of postoperative pain as much as possible.
Dupilumab‐associated ocular surface disease: An interdisciplinary decision framework for prescribers in the Australian setting
Authors: Foley Peter , Kerdraon Yves A. , Hogden John P. , Shumack Stephen , Spelman Lynda , Sebaratnam Deshan F. , Su Charles S. , Katelaris Constance H.
Published: September 2022

Background/Objectives

Dupilumab‐associated ocular surface disease (DAOSD) is of particular relevance in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Guidance on DAOSD assessment and management in the Australian setting is needed to reduce its impact and minimise disruption to treatment.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to identify data pertaining to the incidence, pathophysiology, risk factors and management of DAOSD. A critical review of this literature was used to inform a decision framework for dupilumab‐prescribers and develop a graded severity scoring tool to guide appropriate management options.

Results

DAOSD typically emerges within 4 months of commencing dupilumab and the occurrence of new events diminishes over time. The reported incidence varies widely depending on the nature and source of the data: 8.6–22.1% (clinical trials programme), 0.5–70% (real‐world data; differences in study size, duration of follow‐up, ophthalmologist intervention, use of prophylaxis). Occurrence increases with AD severity and in patients with prior history of ocular disease; pathophysiology is still to be fully characterised. Management options have evolved over time and include lubricants/artificial tears, corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines, anti‐inflammatory agents and antimicrobial agents. Current therapies aim to resolve symptoms or reduce severity to levels sufficiently tolerable to enable continuation of dupilumab therapy.

Conclusions

Recommendations for DAOSD assessment and management include identification of high‐risk patients, vigilance for red flags (keratoconus, herpetic and bacterial keratitis), regular assessment of symptom severity (before and during dupilumab therapy), conservative management of mild DAOSD by the prescribing physician and ophthalmologist referral for collaborative care of moderate–severe DAOSD and high‐risk patients.
Current status of assisted reproductive technologies in buffaloes
Authors: Srirattana Kanokwan , Hufana‐Duran Danilda , Atabay Eufrocina P. , Duran Peregrino G. , Atabay Edwin C. , Lu Kehuan , Liang Yuanyuan , Chaikhun‐Marcou Thuchadaporn , Theerakittayakorn Kasem , Parnpai Rangsun
Published: September 2022

Buffaloes are raised by small farm holders primarily as source of draft power owing to its resistance to hot climate, disease, and stress conditions. Over the years, transformation of these animals from draft to dairy was deliberately carried out through genetic improvement program leading to the development of buffalo‐based enterprises. Buffalo production is now getting more attention and interest from buffalo raisers due to its socioeconomic impact as well as its contribution to propelling the livestock industry in many developing countries. Reproduction of buffaloes, however, is confronted with huge challenge and concern as being generally less efficient to reproduce compared with cattle due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as poor estrus manifestation, silent heat, marked seasonal infertility, postpartum anestrus, long calving interval, delayed puberty, inherently low number of primordial follicles in their ovaries, high incidence of atresia, and apoptosis. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are major interventions for the efficient utilization of follicle reserve in buffaloes. The present review focuses on estrus and ovulation synchronization for fixed time artificial insemination, in vitro embryo production, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos, somatic cell nuclear transfer, the factors affecting utilization in various ARTs, and future perspectives in buffaloes.