bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the links between human resources and Triple-A supply chain capabilities
Authors: Alfalla-Luque Rafaela , Marin-Garcia Juan A. , Machuca Jose A.D. , Díaz-Curbelo Alina
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To explore the role of human resources (HR), specifically ability, motivation and opportunity practices (AMO) framework and supply chain orientation top management support (SCO-TMS), in driving the dynamic capabilities of the Triple-A (agility, adaptability and alignment), which help to overcome the challenges faced by global supply chains (SC).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey is answered by managers from different functions in a sample of 287 manufacturing plants (three manufacturing sectors) and 14 countries (nine developed and five developing). The database is analyzed by PLS-SEM. In-sample and out-of-sample model predictive capacity is assessed by PLSPredict and CVPAT. A multigroup analysis (MGA) has been done to assess the possible influence of the countries’ economic development context in the model.

Findings

This research confirms significant positive relationships between AMO and SCO-TMS and AAA capabilities, with SCO-TMS showing a stronger relationship. This highlights the importance of HR aspects (AMO and SCO-TMS) as drivers of Triple-A SC, and particularly the importance of top management’s strategic vision to support SCO and develop collaborative relationships with suppliers and customers. The wide multi-country/multi-sector sample, reinforced by a good model’s in-sample and out-of-sample predictive capacity, makes these results more reliable and generalizable to other settings than other research in the field.

Practical implications

Managers are encouraged to develop AMO practices and SCO-TMS (focusing on SCO-TMS as the main lever) to enhance Triple-A SC capabilities. The analysis of the country’s economic development context still encourages the use of SCO-TMS as the main lever since its effect is higher than that of AMO. This knowledge is crucial to improving the allocation of limited resources toward developing appropriate capabilities.

Originality/value

Following the DCV and ROT perspectives, this research pioneers the analysis of HR practices (AMO) and SCO-TMS as antecedents of the Triple-A SC capabilities, making relevant contributions to the knowledge on the drivers of these relevant dynamic capabilities, an area with limited prior research.
25 Years of scholarly accounting research on the GCC region: looking back for future research roadmap
Authors: Tahat Yasean A. , Hassanein Ahmed , ElMelegy Ahmed R. , Al Hajj Raghid
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide an exhaustive review and analysis of accounting research conducted on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study combines bibliometric and content analysis techniques to analyze 811 Scopus peer-reviewed research articles from 1998 to 2023, written by 1,195 authors. It quantifies the annual scientific production, examines the main publication venues, visualizes collaboration and various bibliometric networks, identifies thematic research categories and provides a roadmap for future research directions.

Findings

The findings reveal phenomenal progress in accounting research on the GCC countries, evidenced by an increased number of peer-reviewed articles, scholars and countries involved. Likewise, a “homophily impact” exists among the productive authors, meaning they share a disciplinary or thematic similarity in their research interests. Besides, there is an apparent weakness in the research collaboration between GCC countries and their global counterparts. Furthermore, four main broad thematic categories of accounting research on the GCC countries were identified: (1) corporate governance, (2) Islamic banks, (3) corporate social responsibility and (4) intellectual capital. Building on the findings, we formulated a comprehensive agenda for guiding future research directions.

Originality/value

This study is the first to thoroughly evaluate accounting research within the GCC countries, utilizing a large sample of 811 peer-reviewed research papers indexed in Scopus from 1998 to 2023. The results are helpful, offer valuable insights and pave the way for future research avenues.
Controlling shareholders’ equity pledges and properties of analysts’ earnings forecasts
Authors: Kent Richard , Long Wenbin , Yang Yupeng , Yao Daifei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We adopt an information risk view and argue that higher levels of pledge risk incurred by insiders incentivize opportunistic financial disclosure and impair the quality of information available to analysts to forecast firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

We sample Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2022. Following the literature, we apply established models to measure and test analysts’ forecasting accuracy/dispersion related to controlling shareholders pledging equity and the amount of margin call pressure. Analyst characteristics and nonfinancial disclosures proxied by CSR reports are also examined as factors likely to influence the relationship between pledge risk and analysts’ forecast quality.

Findings

We find that analysts’ earnings predictions are less accurate and more dispersed as the proportion of shares pledged (pledge ratio) increases and in combination with greater margin call pressure. Pledge ratios are significantly associated with several information risk proxies (i.e. earnings permanence, accruals quality, audit quality, financial restatements, related party transactions and internal control weaknesses), validating the channel through which equity pledges undermine analysts’ forecast quality. The results also demonstrate that forecast quality declines for a wide variety of analysts’ attributes, including high- and low-quality analysts and analysts from small and large brokerage firms. Importantly, nonfinancial disclosures, as proxied by CSR reporting, improve analysts’ forecasts.

Originality/value

We extend the literature by demonstrating that incremental pledge risk increases non-diversifiable information risk; all non-pledging shareholders pay a premium through more diverse and less accurate earnings forecasts. Our study provides important policy implications with economically significant costs to investors associated with insider equity pledges. Our results highlight the benefits of nonfinancial disclosures in China, which has implications for the current debate on the global convergence of CSR reporting.
Between responsive gestures and adaptive actions: deciphering the differential impact of CSR strategies on stock market performance
Authors: Kumar Sonal , Ravi Rahul , Basu Nilanjan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper offers a fresh perspective on this debate by exploring the direct relationship between a firm’s stock price performance and its CSR activities, placing particular emphasis on the underlying intent or motive behind the CSR initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines the relationship between a firm’s stock price and its corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, distinguishing between responsive and adaptive CSR. While responsive CSR, often a response to negative events, elicits immediate positive stock performance, adaptive CSR initially triggers negative stock performance. However, long-term analysis reveals adaptive CSR leads to positive stock performance, especially for family firms. The study challenges the notion of market myopia, suggesting the market values responsive CSR in the short term but recognizes the long-term benefits of adaptive CSR over time. Clear communication about adaptive CSR intentions and benefits may help in accurate market valuation.

Findings

This research examines the relationship between a firm’s stock price and its CSR activities, distinguishing between responsive and adaptive CSR. While responsive CSR, often a response to negative events, elicits immediate positive market reactions, adaptive CSR initially triggers negative reactions. However, long-term analysis reveals adaptive CSR leads to positive returns, especially for family firms.

Practical implications

The study challenges the notion of market myopia, suggesting the market values responsive CSR in the short term but recognizes the long-term benefits of adaptive CSR over time. Clear communication about adaptive CSR intentions and benefits may help in accurate market valuation.

Originality/value

First, it expands on previous studies by exploring how the different motivations behind CSR activities lead to varying effects on stock returns. Second, it sheds new light on the subject of market myopia. The findings demonstrate that adaptive CSR initiatives can initially trigger market reactions similar to those caused by perceived over-investment, in contrast to the more favorable response to responsive CSR activities.
Post-recovery behavioral outcome in service recovery: a conditional mediation perspective
Authors: Rokonuzzaman Md , Mollah Muhammad , Harun Ahasan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This article delves into a theoretical framework evaluating the outcomes of justice perception (JP) on post-complaint behaviors. In addition, this article intends to facilitate service strategists to tailor service recovery efforts to attain a competitive gain.

Design/methodology/approach

We explored the complex relationships between JP and positive word-of-mouth (PWOM), evaluating the role of recovery disconfirmation (RD) as a mediator and also exploring factors that work as moderators. Data were collected in three different studies (Study 1: survey in banking service, Study 2a: experiment in hotel service and Study 2b: experiment in banking service) and were evaluated through the regression-based analysis.

Findings

Findings show that the link between JP and PWOM is mediated by RD. Moreover, the attitude toward complaining, failure severity and cognitive reappraisal function as moderators in affecting the behavioral consequences of JP.

Originality/value

In contrast to existing research discussing similar topics, in this article, exclusive focus is given on the moderation and mediation impacts for hypotheses evaluation. Thus, the outcomes from our studies provide a strategic outline for managing service failures by enhancing customer interactions, creating opportunities for competitive gain.
An investigation into the effect of CoCrMo powder characteristics on the powder bed density in laser-based powder bed fusion units
Authors: Kloppers Cornelius P. , de Beer Deon J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The increased use cases for laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) in the research and commercial domains necessitate a better understanding of the inputs and the processing parameters. Porosity in parts manufactured by LPBF could lead to premature failure and increased cost. The powder bed, which is selectively laser melted, must be as densely packed as possible to ensure high-density parts. This paper aims to identify and qualify the variables that affect the packing density of the powder bed.

Design/methodology/approach

Six different independent variables that affect the packing density of the powder were identified and quantified. The chemical composition, true powder density, powder size distribution, powder circularity and convexity and powder morphology were studied. A powder bed density capsule was printed in place to determine the actual powder bed density in the LPBF unit.

Findings

Particle size destitution is the most critical aspect of the packing density in the LPBF unit. Powder with better circularity, convexity and higher powder density has proven to pack less densely than powder with many smaller particles. A more significant number of fine particles will ensure the voids between larger particles are filled, and a denser item, with less porosity, can be manufactured.

Originality/value

The independent variables quantified in this study to determine their effect on the packing densities are discussed. Adherence to the ASTM standard applicable to this industry is discussed, and the quantification method is evaluated. This work’s original contribution is identifying the effect of the ratio of D90 to D10 values based on particle diameter and its interaction within the LPBF unit to result in the highest possible packing density.
Wettability and microstructure transformations of YAG ceramic brazing to kovar alloy with AgCuTi filler alloy
Authors: Lin Wei , Wang Cheng , Zou Qingyi , Lei Min , Li Yulong
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct work to obtain high-quality brazed joint of YAG ceramic and kovar alloy.

Design/methodology/approach

Wetting and spreading behavior of AgCuTi filler alloy on YAG ceramic and kovar alloy under vacuum (2∼3 × 10–4 Pa) and argon conditions was investigated and compared. Then, YAG ceramic was brazed to kovar alloy under a high vacuum of 2∼3 × 10–4 Pa; the influence of holding time on the interface structure of the joint was investigated.

Findings

The wettability of AgCuTi on YAG is poor in the argon atmosphere, the high oxygen content in the reaction layer hinders the formation of the TiY2O5 reaction layer, thereby impeding the wetting of AgCuTi on YAG; in the vacuum, a contact angle (?=16.6°) is obtained by wetting AgCuTi filler alloy on the YAG substrate; the microstructure of the YAG/AgCuTi/kovar brazed joint is characterized to be YAG/Y2O3/(Fe, Ni)Ti/Ag(s, s) + Cu(s, s)/Fe2Ti + Ni3Ti/Fe2Ti/kovar; at 870 °C for the holding time of 10 min, a (Fe, Ni) Ti layer of approximately 1.8 µm is formed on the YAG side.

Originality/value

Wetting and spreading behavior of the brazing filler alloy under different conditions and the influence of the holding time on the interface microstructure of the joint were studied to provide references for obtaining high-quality brazed joints.
Environmental conditions affect the allelopathic potential of three invasive alien plants species in North‐Eastern France
Authors: Talmot Victor , Hardion Laurent , Sexton Aaron , Jumeau Jonathan , Jugieau Enzo , Staentzel Cybill
Published: November 2024

Invasive alien plants species (IAPs) pose significant challenges worldwide, affecting the economy, public health and biodiversity conservation. Their global success can be partially attributed to the release of new exogenous molecules into the environment, known as allelochemicals. The synthesis and concentration of these compounds in vivo are referred to as the allelopathic potential, which exhibits plasticity in response to the environment. Here, we investigated how the expression of this allelopathic potential of three IAPs in Alsace, North‐Eastern (NE) France, responds to various environmental variables.

Phytotoxicity tests were conducted to evaluate the root length in two target species: Lactuca sativa and either Medicago sativa or Bromus catharticus, measuring the allelopathic potential expression of the IAPs. The tests utilized leaves collected from multiple IAP populations in the fields. At each sampling site, a total of 22 environmental variables were recorded, encompassing diverse factors across five categories, including micro‐environmental parameters, land cover, soil properties, ecological indicator values and climate. Additionally, genetic analysis was conducted to characterize the genetic diversity of each IAP.

The three IAPs under investigation exhibited varying levels of genetic diversity. We found one unique genotype for Ailanthus altissima, six different genotypes for Phytolacca americana and 10 genotypes for the Reynoutria spp. complex, with a majority one corresponding to Reynoutria japonica. Each IAP species presents an environmental plasticity, higher for A. altissima and P. americana than R. japonica, regarding their allelopathic potential expression. A variety of environmental factors contributed to this plasticity, with effect on the expression of allelopathic potential specific to the IAP species studied.

Synthesis: Overall, the findings highlighted the significant role of environmental variables in influencing the allelopathic potential expression, with varying degrees of impact depending on the species under study. Understanding how environmental conditions affect the production of allelochemicals provides valuable insights for managing these invasive alien plant species. This knowledge can guide the prioritization of interventions for controlling the most competitive invasive populations.
Genital lacerations following sexual assault and consensual sexual intercourse: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Crawford Leah S. , Downing Nancy R. , Famurewa Abimbola D. , Markowitz Jenifer R. , Han Gang
Published: November 2024

The identification of genital injuries during a medical‐forensic examination may impact the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault. The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to compare prevalence of genital lacerations (or tears) in persons reporting consensual versus non‐consensual vaginal penetration. We hypothesized there would be greater prevalence of genital injuries in the non‐consensual group. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and gray literature for relevant observational case–control studies. Relative risk (RR) ratios using Mantel–Haenszel method were calculated to compare prevalence of genital lacerations between patients reporting consensual versus non‐consensual penetration. Mantel–Haenszel chi‐square tested significance and Cochran's Q determined between‐study heterogeneity. In all studies, genital injuries were observed in both groups. The overall RR of 1.26 indicated a 26% greater risk of genital lacerations in the non‐consensual group compared to the consensual group (p = 0.003). Study heterogeneity was 54% (p = 0.05). Findings suggest a greater likelihood of observing genital lacerations in persons reporting non‐consensual vaginal penetration. High heterogeneity reflects variations between studies regarding provider education and training, visualization techniques, patient characteristics, time between assault and examination, and documentation practices. A major limitation is the lack of observer blinding creating potential bias. Findings support the need to standardize genital visualization techniques and documentation in sexual assault medical forensic examinations. Healthcare providers conducting medical forensic examinations must understand the limitations of studies comparing non‐consensual and consensual injury findings if asked to provide information or testimony on this topic.
Game target‐group: Implementing inhomogeneous Poisson point process to estimate animal abundance from harvest data
Authors: Fernández‐López Javier , Acevedo Pelayo , Illanas Sonia , Blanco‐Aguiar Jose Antonio , Vicente Joaquín , Gimenez Olivier
Published: November 2024

Harvest data have the potential to be used as an abundance index due to its widespread availability and long‐term collection across large geographical areas. However, challenges such as the lack of hunting effort information, varying data resolutions and reporting biases hinder its direct use as an abundance proxy.

Here, we present the game target‐group, a statistical approach based on a thinned inhomogeneous Poisson point process, to estimate animal abundance at fine‐scale resolution from hunting data. We employ a Bayesian hierarchical framework to borrow information from harvest data on related species to overcome issues due to the lack of hunting management information. We conducted a simulation study to explore model performance and parameter identifiability under different scenarios (sample size, species catchability/abundance and unmodelled heterogeneity) and assessed the method on a real case study with four species in central Spain.

The simulation study confirmed that with a large enough sample size (n > 5000), high catchability and lack of unmodelled heterogeneity in the abundance process, the model was able to obtain unbiased estimations for total abundance parameters. In the case study, our model successfully captured species‐habitat relationships and produced reliable estimates of total abundance at regional scale. Internal validation with independent test data and external validation with fieldwork data confirmed the model's ability to predict hunting yields and estimate species total abundance accurately.

Our approach provides a flexible and valuable tool for large‐scale monitoring programs relying on harvest data with potential applications in wildlife management and conservation. However, the method should be applied with caution when there is unmodelled heterogeneity, low catchability or the sample size is small (<5000).
The complexity and challenges of fertility preservation in women with cervix cancer—A prospective cohort study reporting on reproductive outcome and overall survival
Authors: Marklund Anna , Jiang Yanyu , Röjlar Hanna , Sergouniotis Fotios , Nilsson Hanna , Lundberg Frida E. , Rodriguez‐Wallberg Kenny A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Our objective was to assess the feasibility of fertility preservation (FP) in women referred for cervix cancer, the long‐term reproductive outcome, and overall survival.

Material and Methods

Prospective cohort study of patients referred for FP counseling between 1999 and 2021 to the FP program of Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Baseline data included age, parity, disease stage, treatment characteristics, and FP methods applied. Data on reproductive outcomes and overall survival (by October 19, 2023) were retrieved from clinical registries and a population‐based register. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov NTC04602962.

Results

In total, 91 women were referred, 67% with stage I cancers and 25%, 7%, and 1% with stages II, III, and IV, respectively. Cancers were diagnosed during pregnancy or postpartum in six cases. Cancer treatments included fertility‐sparing surgery in 14%, hysterectomy in 30%, and radiochemotherapy in 79% of cases. The treatment modality did not rule out the possibility to undergo FP, and following counseling, 68 patients elected to undergo FP by cryopreservation of embryos or oocytes (N = 11), ovarian tissue (N = 54), or both (N = 3). After a mean follow‐up of 8.1 years, 25 women (37%) returned to the center, five women achieved conception either spontaneously or through assisted reproduction, and 11 women became mothers through adoption or surrogacy. In the group of women receiving radical surgery or chemo/radiotherapy, no live births using cryopreserved specimens have yet been achieved. During follow‐up, 7 women (10%) in the FP group and 5 women (24%) in the group without FP had died of their disease. Cancer recurrence was documented in 19 patients.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the complexity and challenges associated with FP in the context of cervix cancer. Results of this study demonstrate that many women diagnosed with cervix cancer at reproductive age desire to achieve parenthood. While fertility‐sparing surgery can allow pregnancy, those who undergo a hysterectomy are limited to adoption, surrogacy, or the emerging possibility of uterus transplantation.
Decreased expression of Syndecan‐ 1 (CD138) in the endometrium of adenomyosis patients suggests a potential pathogenetic role
Authors: Shaalan Walid , Ibrahim Mohamed Gamal , Plasger Ariana , Hassan Nourhan , Kiesel Ludwig , Schüring Andreas N. , Götte Martin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Adenomyosis is a special subtype of endometriosis, affecting the myometrium, affecting about 20% of women in the reproductive age period. Clinical symptoms and intensity are diverse and can vary from heavy menstrual bleeding and dysmenorrhea to infertility and repeated pregnancy losses. Thus, patients often present with a long history of illness pending presumptive clinical or surgical diagnosis. A definitive diagnosis of adenomyosis is made upon histopathological examination verifying ectopic endometrial tissue (endometrial glands and/or stroma) within the myometrium, surrounded by hyperplastic and hypertrophic smooth muscles. However, nowadays ultrasonographic and/or MRI signs can precisely detect it as well. The precise etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear. One theory assumes that adenomyosis occurs through metaplastic transformation or migration of stem cell‐like cells.

Material and Methods

Our study examined the immunohistochemical expression of the transmembrane proteoglycan Syndecan‐1 (CD 138), a multifunctional matrix receptor and signaling co‐receptor, in the endometrium of 35 patients (n = 21 with adenomyosis and n = 14 as a control group) in the period 2016–2017.

Results

As a pilot study, we concluded that Syndecan‐1 is downregulated in adenomyosis patients compared to the control group, supporting its potential role in the development of adenomyosis. Our study did not find a correlation between the immune‐expression of Syndecan‐1 and the menstrual cycle phase.

Conclusions

For clinical significance in relation to our results, the investigated data showed that the downregulation of Syndecan‐1 in adenomyotic patients in our study may suggest a role in promoting the invasiveness of endometriotic islands within the myometrium. However, further studies are still needed to understand the mechanistic contribution of Syndecan‐1 to the pathogenesis of adenomyosis.
Infectious morbidity and white blood cell count associated with grade repetition and school absenteeism
Authors: Villamor Eduardo , Beer Rachael J. , Seeley Allison L. , López‐Arana Sandra , Marín Constanza , Mora‐Plazas Mercedes
Published: November 2024

Aim

Infections can impair cognitive development, but their role on adverse childhood educational outcomes is unknown. We examined the associations of infectious morbidity and inflammatory biomarkers with grade repetition and school absenteeism.

Methods

We followed 2762 Colombian children aged 5–12 years for a school year. We quantified inflammatory biomarkers at enrolment and prospectively recorded incidence of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, doctor visits and absent days from school using pictorial diaries. We estimated adjusted relative risks (ARR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for grade repetition and absenteeism by infectious morbidity burden and inflammatory biomarker categories, and percentages of the associations mediated through absenteeism.

Results

Morbidity was associated with increased risk of grade repetition. ARR (95% CI) of grade repetition comparing high versus no incidence of gastrointestinal, respiratory and ear infections were, respectively, 2.17 (1.00, 4.72), 2.31 (1.28, 4.16) and 2.57 (1.13, 5.86). Infections also predicted school absenteeism, which mediated 35%, 31% and 38% of the corresponding morbidity‐grade repetition associations. Elevated white blood cells (WBC), especially granulocytes, were related to increased grade repetition and school absenteeism risks.

Conclusion

Childhood infections and elevated WBC are associated with grade repetition and school absenteeism. Absenteeism does not fully explain the morbidity‐grade repetition associations.
Watery archives: Reflections on doing participatory archival research for climate action and audience engagement
Authors: Worthen Hannah , Weatherall Claire
Published: November 2024

This paper is based on our experience of running a one‐day participatory workshop at the Hull History Centre in the summer of 2023 titled ‘Watery Archives: Exploring Hull's flood histories’. The event was co‐designed by academics and archivists in direct response to feedback from our community participants as part of the Risky Cities project at the University of Hull. During the day, we invited participants to explore original historical material about Hull's flood histories from the seventeenth to the twentieth century, and then to produce creative and sometimes activist outputs that encouraged participants to critically engage with climate change today. The paper reflects on the value of community and participatory based approaches to open up access to archives and to unleash new learnings and discoveries. It considers some of the potential barriers to engagement in archives and shows how we addressed some of those challenges in our workshop design using methods of participatory learning and research. The paper shows how the 'Watery Archives' workshop built on the power of partnership between academic and heritage organisations to drive community‐led, place‐based research.
Memorials and collective memory: A text analysis of online reviews
Authors: Mulderig Bethany , Carriere Kevin R. , Wagoner Brady
Published: November 2024

Memorials extend beyond their physical constructs, embodying political narratives and influencing collective memory. This study examines how traditional memorials and counter‐memorials shape geopolitical storytelling and public sentiment. Through text analysis of over 158,000 online reviews, we compare emotional responses elicited by these memorial types. Our findings reveal distinct differences in reactions, with traditional memorials evoking pride and heroism, while counter‐memorials prompt reflection on loss and historical trauma. These results contribute to understanding how memorials influence political perceptions and collective memory, offering insights into the psychological mechanisms behind geopolitical engagement with historical events.
Disruption of survivin protein expression by treatment with YM155 accelerates the resolution of neutrophilic inflammation
Authors: Fernandes Débora de Oliveira , Machado Jessica Rayssa , Beltrami Vinicius Amorim , Santos Anna Clara Paiva Menezes Dos , Queiroz‐Junior Celso Martins , Vago Juliana Priscila , Soriani Frederico Marianetti , Amaral Flávio Almeida , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Felix Franciel Batista , Pinho Vanessa
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Prolonged survival of neutrophils is essential for determining the progression and severity of inflammatory and immune‐mediated disorders, including gouty arthritis. Survivin, an anti‐apoptotic molecule, has been described as a regulator of cell survival. This study aims to examine the effects of YM155 treatment, a survivin selective suppressant, in maintaining neutrophil survival in vitro and in vivo experimental settings of neutrophilic inflammation.

Experimental approach

BALB/c mice were injected with monosodium urate (MSU) crystals and treated with YM155 (intra‐articularly) at the peak of inflammatory response. Leukocyte recruitment, apoptosis neutrophil and efferocytosis were determined by knee joint wash cell morphology counting and flow cytometry. Resolution interval (Ri) was quantified by neutrophil infiltration, monitoring the amplitude and duration of the inflammation. Cytokine production was measured by ELISA. Mechanical hypernociception was assessed using an electronic von Frey aesthesiometer. Efferocytosis was evaluated in zymosan‐induced neutrophilic peritonitis. Survivin and cleaved caspase‐3 expression was determined in human neutrophils by flow cytometry.

Key Results

Survivin was expressed in neutrophils during MSU‐induced gout, and the treatment with YM155 reduced survivin expression and shortened Ri from ∼8 h observed in vehicle‐treated mice to ∼5.5 h, effect accompanied by increased neutrophil apoptosis and efferocytosis, both crucial for the inflammation resolution. Reduced IL‐1β and CXCL1 levels were also observed in periarticular tissue. YM155 reduced histopathological score and hypernociceptive response. In human neutrophils, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) increased survivin expression, whereas survivin inhibition with YM155 induced neutrophil apoptosis, with activation of caspase‐3.

Conclusions and Implications

Survivin may be a promising therapeutic target to control neutrophilic inflammation.
GraphCPP: The new state‐of‐the‐art method for cell‐penetrating peptide prediction via graph neural networks
Authors: Imre Attila , Balogh Balázs , Mándity István
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) are short amino acid sequences that can penetrate cell membranes and deliver molecules into cells. Several models have been developed for their discovery, yet these models often face challenges in accurately predicting membrane penetration due to the complex nature of peptide–cell interactions. Hence, there is a need for innovative approaches that can enhance predictive performance.

Experimental Approach

In this study, we present the application GraphCPP, a novel graph neural network (GNN) for the prediction of membrane penetration capability of peptides.

Key Results

A new comprehensive dataset—dubbed CPP1708—was constructed resulting in the largest reliable database of CPPs to date. Comparative analyses with previous methods, such as MLCPP2, C2Pred, CellPPD and CellPPD‐Mod, demonstrated the superior predictive performance of our model. Upon testing against other published methods, GraphCPP performs exceptionally, achieving 0.5787 Matthews correlation coefficient and 0.8459 area under the curve (AUC) values on one dataset. This means a 92.8% and 23.3% improvement in Matthews correlation coefficient and AUC measures respectively compared with the next best model. The capability of the model to effectively learn peptide representations was demonstrated through t‐distributed stochastic neighbour embedding plots. Additionally, the uncertainty analysis revealed that GraphCPP maintains high confidence in predictions for peptides shorter than 40 amino acids. The source code is available at https://github.com/attilaimre99/GraphCPP.

Conclusion and Implications

These findings indicate the potential of GNN‐based models to improve CPP penetration prediction and it may contribute towards the development of more efficient drug delivery systems.
Young Carers' Identification: Comparing Adolescents' and Parents' Perspectives
Authors: Pilato Jade , Dorard Géraldine , Cincidda Clizia , Untas Aurélie
Published: November 2024

Background

Young carers are children or adolescents who provide significant care to another family member who has an illness or disability. This situation impacts their physical and mental health, and their social and school life. Nonetheless, this vulnerable population is often covert, which makes YCs' identification a major challenge. One of the methods in the literature to identify them consists of obtaining the adolescent's report of a relative's illness or disability, coupled with the standardized psychometric evaluation of their level of care. To date, no research had compared adolescents' and parents' perspectives using this method, while this would enable to gain insights on YCs' identification. The objective of this study was to compare parents' and adolescents' reports on the identification of an ill or disabled relative within the household, and adolescents' levels of caring activities.

Methods

Survey data were collected from 776 adolescents (mean age = 12.76 years; 55.50% of females) and one of their parents (mean age = 44.31 years; 83.76% of females). They completed questionnaires evaluating their sociodemographic characteristics, illnesses or disabilities within their household, and adolescents' levels of caring activities (MACA–YC 18). Cohen's κ for interrater agreement, Student's t‐tests and chi‐square tests of independence were performed for child–parent responses comparisons.

Results

Fewer adolescents reported that there was an ill or disabled relative within the household compared with their parents. Only 27.56% of the dyads agreed both on the person who was ill or disabled and the illness or disability. The dyads were more often in agreement when the ill or disabled relative had a serious somatic illness and was the mother. On the other hand, adolescents reported engaging in higher levels of caregiving activities than indicated by their parents' assessments.

Conclusion

This study highlights the difference of perception between parents and adolescents both on illness and disability reports, and on adolescents' levels of caring activities. These two points of view seem complementary, suggesting that combining adolescents' and parents' perspectives can aid in better identifying young carers.
Examining the Likelihood of Being Referred to the Child Welfare Services in Sweden: Influences at the Individual, Peer and School‐Area Levels
Authors: Kalin Torbjörn
Published: November 2024

In Sweden, both maltreatment and behavioural problems are indicative of needs that motivate interventions from child welfare services (CWS). However, the likelihood of being referred to CWS can be influenced by other than indicative factors on individual, peer and school‐area levels. Studies disentangling such other factors (possible bias) from indicative factors are still lacking in Sweden. Using a subsample of 1286 children across 14 schools from a longitudinal research programme and linking survey data to child welfare records, this article examines the relationship between maltreatment, behavioural problems, individual socio‐economic factors, peer affiliation, disadvantaged school areas and the likelihood of being referred. After controlling for maltreatment and behavioural problems, findings demonstrate that other factors on all three levels (individual, peer and school‐area) increase the likelihood of being referred, for example, living with low socio‐economic status, living in a single‐parent household, being affiliated with peers who smoke and attending school with a large proportion of children from socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. The findings highlight that individual‐level socio‐economic factors are pivotal in understanding why some children are referred, while others with similar needs are not. Implications for outreach social work with children at risk of maltreatment and behavioural problems are discussed.
Global Trends and Perspectives on Dental Fragment Reattachment (1988–2024): A Bibliometric and Altmetric Review
Authors: Mulinari Julia , de Souza Isadora Durante , Pinho Nicolle Silveira , dos Anjos Lucas Menezes , Santana Carla Miranda , Cardoso Mariane , de Oliveira Rocha Aurélio
Published: November 2024

Fragment reattachment in traumatic injuries is notable for its excellent esthetic, morphological, and functional results. The aim of this study was to investigate the scientific history and trends in publications on dental fragment reattachment through a bibliometric and altmetric analysis. The search was conducted in October 2024 using Web of Science. Two researchers selected articles and extracted key study characteristics. Collaborative networks were generated using VOSviewer software. Dimensions was consulted to measure altmetric data. The Spearman correlation was used. A total of 129 articles were included. The most cited article received 160 citations. Studies were published between 1988 and 2024. The leading journal was Dental Traumatology (n = 55). Case reports (n = 63) were the most frequent study design. The majority of studies aimed at clinical case follow‐up (n = 71), with coronal fractures being most commonly reported (n = 96). Young patients were most affected in the selected studies (n = 49). Tewari N stood out (n = 8). The All India Institute of Medical Sciences was prominent with seven articles. Brazil was the most prevalent country (n = 29), and Asia was the most frequent continent (n = 57). Vosviewer demonstrated collaborations among authors. According to Dimensions, significant mentions were identified on Mendeley, followed by X users. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive description of the technique of fragments reattachment in traumatized teeth, which has been studied for over 36 years. Studies on this technique primarily rely on case reports describing follow‐up in young patients. Intervention studies and systematic reviews are recommended. Additionally, more studies in Africa, Oceania, and North America are encouraged.
Threshold of defensive response in Apis mellifera (honey bees) and subsequent brain gene expression in reaction to noxious stimuli
Authors: Acevedo‐Gonzalez Jenny P. , Galindo‐Cardona Alberto , Fuenzalida‐Uribe Nicolas L. , Ortiz‐Alvarado Yarira , Ghezzi Alfredo , Giray Tugrul
Published: November 2024

Honey bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), colonies and individuals respond variably to disturbances. The response depends on perception and interpretation of stimuli requiring both neural modulation and use of energy. In this study, we examined the role of neural modulation and brain metabolism in constitutive and experience‐dependent differences in defensive response. For constitutive differences, we compared brain gene expression in bees from gentle and defensive colonies identified in a standard colony‐level assay. For experience‐dependent changes in defensiveness response, we compared brain gene expression in control bees and bees that responded by sting extension to electric shock in a standardized individual behavioral assay. In both experiments, for neuromodulation, we examined membrane receptor genes for the biogenic amines dopamine (DopR2), octopamine (OA1), and serotonin (5HT2a), as well the gene for the enzyme responsible for serotonin synthesis (THR). For neural metabolism, we examined the expression of two Oxidative Phosphorylation Pathway “OXPHOS” genes (ND51 and ND20‐LIKE). Bees collected from defensive colonies had a significantly lower expression of amine receptor, synthesis gene, and OXPHOS genes. However, bees responding to noxious stimuli (i.e., electric shock) showed greater gene expression for both OXPHOS and neuromodulation genes, except for 5HT2a. We discuss the intriguing intersection of neuromodulation and neural metabolism in defensive response both for constitutive differences, and contrasting experience dependent or adaptive differences.
Comparison of serum microRNA in healthy horses and horses with moderate to severe mitral valve regurgitation using a commercially available canine cardiac panel
Authors: Calewaert Amber , Palarea‐Albaladejo Javier , Coultous Robert , Capewell Paul , Hanks Eve , Decloedt Annelies , van Loon Gunther
Published: November 2024

Background

MicroRNA (miRNA) has previously been used as a biomarker for cardiac disease in humans and dogs, however, studies in horses are not yet available.

Objectives

To determine if adult horses with moderate or severe mitral valve regurgitation have a different serum miRNA expression profile compared to healthy controls.

Study design

Retrospective cross‐sectional.

Methods

Serum samples from 77 adult horses with moderate or severe mitral valve regurgitation and 77 healthy control horses were analysed using a commercial cardiac disease‐specific miRNA panel previously used in dogs.

Results

The commercial canine cardiac miRNA panel had low discriminatory power as a biomarker for mitral valve regurgitation in adult horses. Sensitivity was 0.58 (95% Cl: 0.47–0.69) and specificity 0.57 (95% Cl: 0.46–0.68).

Main limitations

Clinical data were extracted retrospectively and currently there is no well‐established criteria for grading mitral regurgitation in horses; there were few severe mitral regurgitation cases and the pathogenesis of mitral regurgitation was not considered. Controls were not matched by age, breed or sex. An assay developed for use in dogs was used.

Conclusion

Despite strong miRNA conservation across species, the commercially available canine cardiac miRNA panel failed as biomarker for mitral valve regurgitation in adult horses. Further research is needed to determine if an equine specific panel can be developed that performs better as biomarker for cardiac disease in horses.
Evaluation of digital radiographic measurements for the diagnosis of acute laminitis
Authors: Skelton Georgia , Acutt Elizabeth , Stefanovski Darko , van Eps Andrew
Published: November 2024

Background

Traditional radiographic measurements of distal phalanx (Pd) displacement based on the outer hoof wall are not useful for diagnosis of acute laminitis.

Objectives

We hypothesised that the distance between the inner hoof wall and Pd (‘lamellar lucent zone’; LLZ) measured on lateromedial digital radiographs would be increased in horses with acute and subacute laminitis compared with healthy horses.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study and in vivo experimental study.

Methods

Forelimb radiographs from 32 healthy and 18 laminitic mixed‐breed horses were analysed retrospectively. Laminitis was defined by at least two clinical signs (acute multi‐limb lameness, increased digital pulse amplitude and/or persistently warm hooves) for ≤3 days (acute), or >3 and ≤14 days (subacute) duration, without overt palmar rotation (≥3°), remodelling, or distal displacement of the Pd. Some laminitic limbs initially classified as acute were subsequently radiographed later in hospitalisation and also included as subacute. Twelve measurements including LLZ at proximal, middle, and distal locations were performed on 126 forelimb radiographs that met the criteria for acute laminitis (n = 39), subacute laminitis (n = 23) or healthy control (n = 64). A mixed effects linear regression model was used for comparisons and a receiver‐operator characteristic (ROC) curve was created for select measurements. Three horses were serially radiographed to study the impact of magnification and obliquity.

Results

The mean [95% confidence interval] LLZ (mm) was increased in acute and subacute laminitis compared with control in the proximal (acute = 8.8 [8.4–9.2]; subacute = 9 [8–9.9]; control = 7.3 [7–7.7]), middle (acute = 8.9 [8.5–9.3]; subacute = 9.1 [8.2–10]; control = 6.9 [6.5–7.2]), and distal (acute = 9.1 [8.5–9.7]; subacute = 10.2 [9.1–11.3]; control = 7.5 [7.2–7.8]) dorsal lamellar regions (p < 0.001). At a cut‐off of >7.5 mm for middle LLZ, sensitivity was 87% [73%–94%] and specificity 91% [81%–96%] for diagnosis of acute laminitis. Using the ratio of middle LLZ to distal phalanx cortical length, sensitivity was 95% [81%–99%] and specificity was 95% [87%–99%] (cut‐off >0.11). Magnification and obliquity affected absolute LLZ measurements but did not alter LLZ ratios.

Main limitations

No histological confirmation of laminitis.

Conclusions

LLZ measurements are potentially useful for radiographic diagnosis of acute and subacute laminitis.
Transcriptome‐based analysis of the molecular mechanism of recombinant protein expression in Periplaneta americana cells
Authors: Ma Chenjing , Zhang Xin , Li Xian , Ding Weifeng , Chen Hang , Feng Ying
Published: November 2024

The Insect Cell‐Baculovirus Expression Vector System (IC‐BEVS) is widely used for the generation of a variety of gene products, including proteins, vaccines, and gene therapy vectors; however, it has some limitations, including a constrained host range and low protein yields. In a previous study, we established the RIRI‐PA1 cell line, which was derived from Periplaneta americana. This cell line is susceptible to Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) infection, which results in a higher yield production of recombinant protein within a short post‐infection period of 24–48 h compared to the commonly used engineered cell line Sf21. To elucidate the basis for this phenomenon, we used RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis of RIRI‐PA1 and Sf21 cells infected with AcMNPV‐GFP at 24, 72, and 168 h post‐infection. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in both cell lines. GO, eggNOG, and KEGG annotation analyses were used to identify DEGs and select candidate genes that could regulate recombinant protein expression. The results indicated a significant link between ribosomal pathway regulation and recombinant protein expression. After 24 h of AcMNPV‐GFP infection, relatively high levels of protein were produced in RIRI‐PA1 cells compared to Sf21 cells, which exhibited lesser enrichment of ribosomal protein‐related DEGs (7 : 12). Moreover, a correlation was observed in the gene expression patterns between AcMNPV‐GFP infection and recombinant protein synthesis, including genes associated with the ribosome, Toll and Imd signaling, and the cytochrome P450 pathway. Overall, our findings suggested that the ribosomal pathway might be more involved in regulation of protein expression during the early stages of RIRI‐PA1 infection. The mechanisms underlying this process could have potential future applications in engineering cell modifications to reduce production time for recombinant proteins and to promote the use of IC‐BEVS.