bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How important strategic learning capabilities are during COVID-19? A model for innovation ambidexterity
Authors: Islam Talat , Munir Saba
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of strategic entrepreneurship on explorative and exploitative innovation in the presence of strategic learning capabilities. This study has also explored the moderating role of structural organicity between strategic entrepreneurship and strategic learning capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 298 employees working in software houses of Pakistan participated in the study. The study used a questionnaire-based survey through “google forms” on convenience basis, and structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results supported the positive association of strategic entrepreneurship with explorative and exploitative dimensions of innovation. Further, strategic learning capabilities was noted to mediate the association between strategic entrepreneurship and explorative innovation; however, it did not mediate the association between strategic entrepreneurship and exploitative innovation. Finally, the study examined the moderating role of structural organicity and noted a higher positive impact of strategic entrepreneurship on learning capabilities in the case of high structural organicity.

Research limitations/implications

The study collected data from a developing country during COVID-19, which may affect generalizability. The study suggests management to work on employees’ learning capabilities to cultivate the benefits of explorative innovation.

Originality/value

This study explores the mediating role of strategic learning capabilities between strategic entrepreneurship and innovation ambidexterity. In addition, it explores the conditional effect of structural organicity to trigger strategic learning capabilities.
The effects of folic acid supplementation on depression in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Khalili Parniyan , Asbaghi Omid , Aghakhani Ladan , Clark Cain C.T. , Haghighat Neda
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims, a systematic review and meta-analysis, to evaluate the effects of folic acid (folate) on patients with depression.

Design/methodology/approach

Related articles were found by searching PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of science and Cochrane’s Library, from inception to January 2022. Weighted mean differences (WMD) were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were reported using standard methods.

Findings

Pooled analysis of six randomized controlled trials revealed that folic acid supplementation decreased the depression score in the Beck Depression Inventory (WMD: −3.9; 95% CI: −5.3 to −2.4, p < 0.001) compared with control group, without heterogeneity (I2 = 0.0%, p = 1.000). It also lowered the depression score in the Hamilton (HAM) Depression Inventory (WMD: −3.5 mg/dL; 95% CI: −4.6 to −2.4, p < 0.001) compared with control group, with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 71.8%, p = 0.007). Moreover, subgroup analysis showed that the folic acid supplementation reduced HAM in all subgroups. Meta-regression analysis demonstrated that there is no evidence of a significant linear relationship between dose and duration of folic acid supplementation and changes in HAM. Also, based on the non-linear dose response, no evidence of a relationship between dose and duration of folic acid supplementation and changes in HAM was found.

Originality/value

Folic acid supplementation could possibly have an effect on lowering depression in patients. However, the clinical trials thus far are insufficient for clinical guidelines and practice.
Offline laser power modulation in LPBF additive manufacturing including kinematic and technological constraints
Authors: Ettaieb Kamel , Godineau Kevin , Lavernhe Sylvain , Tournier Christophe
Published: July 2022

Purpose

In Laser Power Bed Fusion (LPBF), the process and operating parameters influence the mechanical and geometrical characteristics of the manufactured parts. Therefore, the optimization and control of these parameters are mandatory to improve the quality of the produced parts. During manufacturing, the process parameters are usually constant whatever the part size or the built layer. With such settings, the manufacturing process may lead to an inhomogeneous thermal behavior and locally overheating areas, impacting the part quality. The aim of this study is to take advantage of an analytical thermal model to modulate the laser power upstream of manufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes place in two steps: the first step consists in calculating the preheating temperature at the considered point and the second one determines the power modulation of the laser to reach the desired temperature at this point.

Findings

Numerical investigations on several use cases show the effectiveness of the method to control the overheated areas and to homogenize the simulated temperature distribution.

Originality/value

The specificity of this model lies in its ability to directly calculate the amount of energy to be supplied without any iterative calculation. Furthermore, to be as close as possible to the technology used on LPBF machines, the kinematic behavior of the scanning head and the laser response time are also integrated into the calculation.
Does Sensationalism Affect Executive Compensation? Evidence from Pay Ratio Disclosure Reform
Authors: CHANG WONJAE , DAMBRA MICHAEL , SCHONBERGER BRYCE , SUK INHO
Published: July 2022

Beginning in 2018, U.S. public firms were required to report the ratio of the chief executive officer's (CEO) compensation to their median employee's compensation in the annual proxy statement. Exploiting the staggered reporting of pay ratios, we find little evidence that total CEO compensation changes in response to pay ratio disclosure reform. However, we do find that boards significantly adjust the mix of compensation awarded by reducing the sensitivity of CEO pay to equity price changes, particularly when the CEO is likely to garner media scrutiny, and by reducing reliance on stock‐based and other compensation components that are most susceptible to media coverage surrounding the pay ratio disclosure. Firms ultimately disclosing higher pay ratios garner more media coverage around the filing of their proxy statement, and more negative‐toned coverage in the subsequent month. Finally, we find evidence that greater pay disparity is associated with greater selling activity by retail investors and more negative say‐on‐pay votes following pay ratio reform, consistent with a broad set of investors responding to public scrutiny resulting from pay ratio disclosures.
Women of Significance
Authors: Britten Anna
Published: July 2022

Last issue revealed the disappointing lack of gender diversity in Significance articles. Here, editor Anna Britten shares the response of the editorial board to these findings
Editorial
Authors: Britten Anna
Published: July 2022

How do you do?
Full Moons and Forking Paths
Authors: Smith Gary
Published: July 2022

The claim that fatal motorcycle accidents are more likely when there is a full moon is a compelling example of what Gelman and Loken call a “garden of forking paths”. Gary Smith finds that, under a variety of assumptions, the number of accidents and fatalities on full-moon nights is not unusually large at all
Promoting pro‐environmental behavior through organizational identity and green organizational climate
Authors: Zafar Hina , Ho Jo Ann , Cheah Jun‐Hwa , Mohamed Rosmah
Published: July 2022

This study was conducted to explore the influence of green human resource practices on employees' voluntary pro‐environmental behavior through the sequential mediation path of green organizational climate and organizational identity. A total of 459 employees from the textile industry in Pakistan participated in the study. The results were collected using two sources (managers and employees) at two time points. The proposed research model of the study was tested using structural equation modeling. The results validated the significant positive relationship between green organizational climate and organizational identity. We also found support for the serial mediation of green organizational climate and organizational identity in the green human resource management–voluntary pro‐environmental behavior relationship. All the hypotheses were significant. Overall, this study explains why and how green human resource management practices lead to voluntary pro‐environmental behavior. The implications for theory and practices that will enable organizations to encourage voluntary pro‐environmental behavior among their employees are discussed.
Role of milk and milk products in the spread of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the dairy production chain
Authors: Titouche Yacine , Akkou Madjid , Houali Karim , Auvray Frédéric , Hennekinne Jacques‐Antoine
Published: July 2022

Milk and milk products can harbor a multiple varieties of microorganisms. Therefore, they can be an important source of foodborne pathogens, including multidrug‐resistant bacteria. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes a wide spectrum of infections both in animals and humans. Over the last two decades, the presence of MRSA in foods and food‐producing animals, including milk and milk products, has been frequently reported worldwide, raising public health concerns. In order to monitor and prevent foodborne MRSA contamination, it is necessary to understand their sources, the pheno/genotypic characteristics of the strains, and their transmission dynamics. In this review, studies conducted worldwide were summarized in order to assess the prevalence and diversity of MRSA circulating in milk and milk products. The risk factors for the occurrence of MRSA in milk and milk products were also discussed with preventive and control measures to avoid MRSA contamination in the dairy food chain.
Non‐radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in South America. Burden of disease and differential features with respect to ankylosing spondylitis at time of diagnosis. A comprehensive analysis with a focus on images
Authors: Garcia Salinas Rodrigo , Jaldin Cespedes Rosario , Gomez Ramiro Adrian , Aguerre Dario , Sommerfleck Fernando
Published: July 2022

Background

Non‐radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr‐axSpA) data from South America are scarce, especially regarding image features.

Objective

To estimate the frequency of nr‐axSpA and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a cohort of Argentinian patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) and to analyze the difference between both, with focus on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions, at diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with LBP and a diagnosis of axSpA who participated in a reuma‐check program were included. All patients with a suspicion of SpA were evaluated using blood analytics, HLA‐B27, and images (MRI). Sociodemographic data, SpA features, diagnostic dela,y and clinimetrics were assessed by an operator who was blinded to the patient’s test results. On MRI, the presence of SpA lesions was assessed and a concordance exercise was carried out between rheumatologists and radiologist.

Result

Of 198 LBP patients, 97 had axSpA, 54% of whom were nr‐axSpA. A positive MRI was found in 50%. No difference in terms of disease activity, functional impact, laboratory or treatments between nr‐axSpA and AS were found. Higher frequencies of male sex and chronic lesions on sacroiliac MRI were found in AS patients. In the logistic regression, an independent association with AS diagnosis was found: male (odds ratio [OR] 4.8), MRI fat replacement (OR 4.6), MRI sclerosis (OR 7.6), and diagnostic delay of more than 2 years (OR 10). The concordance between rheumatologists and radiologists was considered good to very good (κ 0.7‐0.8).

Conclusion

The frequency of nr‐axSpA was 54%. We found a higher frequency of being male, more SpA features, and a longer diagnostic delay in patients with AS. Patients with AS had more structural lesions, with a good concordance between rheumatologist and radiologist.
Update on pathomechanisms and treatments in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Lan Feng , Zhang Luo
Published: July 2022

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a global health problem with increasing prevalence and association with an enormous medical and socioeconomic burden. New recognition of immune cells such as type 2 innate lymphocytes (ILC2s), T helper (Th2) 2 cells, follicular helper T cells, follicular regulatory T cells, regulatory T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, and epithelial cells in AR pathogenesis has been updated in this review paper. An in‐depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying AR will aid the identification of biomarkers associated with disease and ultimately provide valuable parameters critical to guide personalized targeted therapy. As the only etiological treatment option for AR, allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) has attracted increasing attention, with evidence for effectiveness of AIT recently demonstrated in several randomized controlled trials and long‐term real‐life studies. The exploration of biologics as therapeutic options has only involved anti‐IgE and anti‐type 2 inflammatory agents; however, the cost‐effectiveness of these agents remains to be elucidated precisely. In the midst of the currently on‐going COVID‐19 pandemic, a global life‐threatening disease, although some studies have indicated that AR is not a risk factor for severity and mortality of COVID‐19, this needs to be confirmed in multi‐centre, real‐life studies of AR patients from different parts of the world.
The effects of aerobic exercise combined with resistance training on inflammatory factors and heart rate variability in middle‐aged and elderly women with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Su Xiaoyun , He Jiping , Cui Jianmei , Li Hongmei , Men Jie
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study investigated the effects of aerobic exercise combined with resistance training on serum inflammatory factors and heart rate variability (HRV) in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A total of 30 patients with diabetic cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (DCAN) were randomly divided into a control group (n = 15) and an exercise group (n = 15). The control group was treated with routine hypoglycemic drugs, while the exercise group was treated with routine hypoglycemic drugs + resistance training (AE + RT). The levels of fasting plasma glucose (FBG), two‐hour plasma glucose (2hPG), serum inflammatory factors C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) were measured before and after the intervention. The HRV was evaluated by 24‐h ambulatory electrocardiogram.

Results

After the intervention, the levels of FBG, 2hPG, serum inflammatory factors, IL‐6 and TNF‐α in the exercise group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < .05) with no significant differences in serum CRP (p > .05). After the intervention, the HRV time domain and frequency domain indexes in the two groups were significantly improved compared with those before the exercise experiment (p < .01) and with no significant difference in (lnlf) (p > .05). The time‐domain indexes, i.e., SDNN and RMSSD, as well as the frequency domain index, i.e., (lnhf), were significantly higher in the exercise group than in the control group, whereas lnlf/lnhf were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < .05).

Conclusions

Compared with routine hypoglycemic drug therapy, combining aerobic exercise and resistance training helped to reduce the level of blood glucose and serum inflammatory factors in T2DM patients with DCAN, and improved autonomic nerve function.
What drives university students to practice social distancing? Evidence from South Korea and Vietnam
Authors: Jo Hyeon
Published: July 2022

As COVID‐19 has caused unprecedented social change, governments are implementing several social measures to control transmission. Among them, social distancing is being enforced in almost all countries and is effective in preventing infection. Based on the importance of social distancing, this study identifies factors influencing the intention towards social distancing. The research model was developed by introducing risk perception in the theory of planned behaviour. To examine the proposed model, a survey was conducted with 339 university students from two countries, South Korea and Vietnam. The data were analysed using the partial least squares method. The results show that social distancing attitude and perceived behavioural control significantly influence social distancing intention. The findings indicate that both affective risk perception and cognitive risk perception serve as imperative factors in the formation of social distancing attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. However, subjective norms and nationality do not affect social distancing intention. Based on the results, suggestions are made for policymakers to establish effective social measures.
Reported congenital malformations after exposure to non‐tumour necrosis factor inhibitor biologics: A retrospective comparative study in EudraVigilance
Authors: Ghalandari Nafise , Crijns Hubertina J. M. J. , Bergman Jorieke E. H. , Dolhain Radboud J. E. M. , van Puijenbroek Eugène P. , Hazes Johanna M. W.
Published: July 2022

Aims

To evaluate the number and nature of reported congenital malformations (CMs) after intrauterine exposure to non‐tumour necrosis factor inhibitor biologics (non‐TNFi biologics) compared to certolizumab pegol (CZP).

Methods

A retrospective comparative study was conducted in the EudraVigilance (EV) database. A safe biologic (CZP) was considered as the reference group. Odds ratios (ORs) for CMs were calculated for each non‐TNFi biologic (including abatacept, anakinra, belimumab, ixekizumab, rituximab, secukinumab, tocilizumab, ustekinumab and vedolizumab), versus CZP (quantitative assessment). Then, CM patterns were reviewed in consultation with a clinical geneticist (qualitative assessment).

Results

ORs were not statistically significant except for belimumab and vedolizumab (similar in magnitude). Except for vedolizumab, no specific CM patterns were observed for the included non‐TNFi biologics. Three cases of corpus callosum agenesis (CCA) were identified for vedolizumab (versus none in CZP and other investigated non‐TNFi biologics). Two of the CCA cases were associated with other neurological CMs (one cerebral ventriculomegaly with microcephaly and one polymicrogyria). This may indicate that these CCAs are related to undiagnosed genetic alterations or are associated with the underlying maternal disease, although a definite relationship with vedolizumab exposure cannot be ruled out.

Conclusion

No special safety signal was identified regarding the occurrence of CMs after exposure to abatacept (n = 64), anakinra (n = 20), belimumab (n = 93), ixekizumab (n = 29), rituximab (n = 57), secukinumab (n = 128), tocilizumab (n = 124) and ustekinumab (n = 215). Regarding observed CCAs in the vedolizumab group (n = 113), no firm conclusions can be made based on available information.
Russian adolescent mental health in 2002, 2015 and during the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2021
Authors: Slobodskaya Helena R. , Safronova Margarita V. , Kharchenko Irina I. , Rezun Ekaterina V. , Kornienko Olga S.
Published: July 2022

Background

Adolescent mental health is a global concern, however, time trends and the COVID‐19‐related restrictions vary across countries. This study examined changes in adolescent mental health and substance use in Russia between 2002, 2015 and during the pandemic in 2021.

Methods

Cross‐sectional school‐based surveys of 12‐ to 18‐year‐olds were carried out in a Siberian city in 2002 (N = 713), 2015 (N = 840) and 2021 (N = 721) using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, data on tobacco, alcohol and drug use and socio‐demographic information. We examined the effect of cohort, gender, family composition and parental occupation on mental health and substance use.

Results

There were increases in emotional symptoms and internalising problems (B = 0.93, p < .001) and decreases in substance use over 19 years (B = ‐.73, p < .001). Changes in adolescent mental health and substance use were substantial from 2002 to 2015 and nonsignificant from 2015 to 2021. Increases in mental health problems were evident only among girls; a decrease in alcohol use was larger among boys. Family composition and parental occupation did not account for these changes.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the mental health of Russian adolescent girls has worsened in the 21st century; the gender gap in mental health has widened; the gender gap in alcohol use was reversed in 2021. The findings highlight the need for research into gender‐specific factors and for effective interventions. The lack of changes in Russian adolescent mental health and substance use from 2015 to during the pandemic in 2021 suggests successful coping; however, more research is needed.
Identification of novel rare copy number variants associated with sporadic tetralogy of Fallot and clinical implications
Authors: He Guo‐Wei , Maslen Cheryl L. , Chen Huan‐Xin , Hou Hai‐Tao , Bai Xiao‐Yan , Wang Xiu‐Li , Liu Xiao‐Cheng , Lu Wan‐Li , Chen Xin‐Xin , Chen Wei‐Dan , Xing Quan‐Sheng , Wu Qin , Wang Jun , Yang Qin
Published: July 2022

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. Highly penetrant copy number variants (CNVs) and genes related to the etiology of TOF likely exist with differences among populations. We aimed to identify CNV contributions to sporadic TOF cases in Han Chinese. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood in 605 subjects (303 sporadic TOF and 302 unaffected Han Chinese [Control] from cardiac centers in China) and analyzed by genome‐wide association study (GWAS). The GWAS results were compared with existing Database of Genetic Variants. These CNVs were further validated by qPCR. Bioinformatics analyses were performed with protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and KEGG pathway enrichment. Across all chromosomes 119 novel “TOF‐specific CNVs” were identified with prevalence of CNVs of 21.5% in chromosomes 1‐20 and 37.0% including Chr21/22. In chromosomes 1‐20, CNVs on 11q25 (encompasses genes ACAD8, B3GAT1, GLB1L2, GLB1L3, IGSF9B, JAM3, LOC100128239, LOC283177, MIR4697, MIR4697HG, NCAPD3, OPCML, SPATA19, THYN1, and VPS26B) and 14q32.33 (encompasses genes THYN1, OPCML, and NCAPD3) encompass genes most likely to be associated with TOF. Specific CNVs found on the chromosome 21 (6.3%) and 22(11.9%) were also identified in details. PPI network analysis identified the genes covering the specific CNVs related to TOF and the signaling pathways. This study for first time identified novel TOF‐specific CNVs in the Han Chinese with higher frequency than in Caucasians and with 11q25 and 14q32.33 not reported in TOF of Caucasians. These novel CNVs identify new candidate genes for TOF and provide new insights into genetic basis of TOF.
A prediction model integrating synchronization biomarkers and clinical features to identify responders to vagus nerve stimulation among pediatric patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Ma Jiayi , Wang Zhiyan , Cheng Tungyang , Hu Yingbing , Qin Xiaoya , Wang Wen , Yu Guojing , Liu Qingzhu , Ji Taoyun , Xie Han , Zha Daqi , Wang Shuang , Yang Zhixian , Liu Xiaoyan , Cai Lixin , Jiang Yuwu , Hao Hongwei , Wang Jing , Li Luming , Wu Ye
Published: July 2022

Aims

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation therapy for children with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). The efficacy of VNS is heterogeneous. A prediction model is needed to predict the efficacy before implantation.

Methods

We collected data from children with DRE who underwent VNS implantation and received regular programming for at least 1 year. Preoperative clinical information and scalp video electroencephalography (EEG) were available in 88 children. Synchronization features, including phase lag index (PLI), weighted phase lag index (wPLI), and phase‐locking value (PLV), were compared between responders and non‐responders. We further adapted a support vector machine (SVM) classifier selected from 25 clinical and 18 synchronization features to build a prediction model for efficacy in a discovery cohort (n = 70) and was tested in an independent validation cohort (n = 18).

Results

In the discovery cohort, the average interictal awake PLI in the high beta band was significantly higher in responders than non‐responders (p < 0.05). The SVM classifier generated from integrating both clinical and synchronization features had the best prediction efficacy, demonstrating an accuracy of 75.7%, precision of 80.8% and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) of 0.766 on 10‐fold cross‐validation. In the validation cohort, the prediction model demonstrated an accuracy of 61.1%.

Conclusion

This study established the first prediction model integrating clinical and baseline synchronization features for preoperative VNS responder screening among children with DRE. With further optimization of the model, we hope to provide an effective and convenient method for identifying responders before VNS implantation.
Changes in OCT4 expression play a crucial role in the lineage specification and proliferation of preimplantation porcine blastocysts
Authors: Lee Mingyun , Oh Jong‐Nam , Choe Gyung Cheol , Kim Seung‐Hun , Choi Kwang‐Hwan , Lee Dong‐Kyung , Jeong Jinsol , Lee Chang‐Kyu
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Curiosity about the role of OCT4, a core transcription factor that maintains inner cell mass (ICM) formation during preimplantation embryogenesis and the pluripotent state in embryonic development, has long been an issue. OCT4 has a species‐specific expression pattern in mammalian preimplantation embryogenesis and is known to play an essential role in ICM formation. However, there is a need to study new roles for OCT4‐related pluripotency networks and second‐cell fate decisions.

Materials and Methods

To determine the functions of OCT4 in lineage specification and embryo proliferation, loss‐ and gain‐of–function studies were performed on porcine parthenotes using microinjection. Then, we performed immunocytochemistry and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to examine the association of OCT4 with other lineage markers and its effect on downstream genes.

Results

In OCT4‐targeted late blastocysts, SOX2, NANOG, and SOX17 positive cells were decreased, and the total cell number of blastocysts was also decreased. According to real‐time PCR analysis, NANOG, SOX17, and CDK4 were decreased in OCT4‐targeted blastocysts, but trophoblast‐related genes were increased. In OCT4‐overexpressing blastocysts, SOX2 and NANOG positive cells increased, while SOX17 positive cells decreased, and while total cell number of blastocysts increased. As a result of real‐time PCR analysis, the expression of SOX2, NANOG, and CDK4 was increased, but the expression of SOX17 was decreased.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results demonstrated that OCT4 leads pluripotency in porcine blastocysts and also plays an important role in ICM formation, secondary cell fate decision, and cell proliferation.
Road mitigation structures reduce the number of reported wildlife‐vehicle collisions in the Bow Valley, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Edwards Hannah A. , Lebeuf‐Taylor Eleonore , Busana Michela , Paczkowski John
Published: July 2022

Human population and economic growth have resulted in roads transecting much of the North American landscape and this has negatively affected wildlife populations by fragmenting habitat, impeding movement between populations and increasing the chance of wildlife‐vehicle collisions. A common conservation tool to counteract these effects is the incorporation of road mitigation structures (RMS, i.e., jumpouts and overpasses/underpasses/fencing) into highway systems. However, gaps remain in our knowledge on RMS efficacy due to a lack of long‐term multispecies studies that can assess temporal and species‐specific variation in use. We investigate the efficacy of the Alberta Environment and Parks and Alberta Transportation RMS on the Trans‐Canada Highway (TCH) in the Bow Valley by analyzing annual reported wildlife‐vehicle collisions over a 23‐year period and wildlife use of the underpasses over a ten‐year period. We found that the incorporation of multiple underpasses and jumpouts, along with fencing, reduced the number of reported wildlife‐vehicle collisions on the TCH. We also found that wildlife use of the RMS exhibited variation with regards to month and location. Overall, our results add to the research supporting RMS effectiveness and suggest that incorporating additional similar infrastructure has the potential to further reduce wildlife‐vehicle collisions on the TCH.
Pharmacogenetics of taxane‐induced neurotoxicity in breast cancer: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guijosa Alberto , Freyria Ana , Espinosa‐Fernandez Jose Rodrigo , Estrada‐Mena Francisco J. , Armenta‐Quiroga Ana Sofía , Ortega‐Treviño Maria Fernanda , Catalán Rodrigo , Antonio‐Aguirre Bani , Villarreal‐Garza Cynthia , Perez‐Ortiz Andric C.
Published: July 2022

Taxane‐based chemotherapy regimens are used as first‐line treatment for breast cancer. Neurotoxicity, mainly taxane‐induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN), remains the most important dose‐limiting adverse event. Multiple genes may be associated with TIPN; however, the strength and direction of the association remain unclear. For this reason, we systematically reviewed observational studies of TIPN pharmacogenetic markers in breast cancer treatment. We conducted a systematic search of terms alluding to breast cancer, genetic markers, taxanes, and neurotoxicity in Ovid, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, Virtual Health, and Web of Science. We assessed the quality of evidence and bias profile. We extracted relevant variables and effect measures. Whenever possible, we performed random‐effects gene meta‐analyses and examined interstudy heterogeneity with meta‐regression models and subgroup analyses. This study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) and STrengthening the REporting of Genetic Association Studies (STREGA) reporting guidance. A total of 42 studies with 19,431 participants were included. These evaluated 262 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 121 genes. We conducted meta‐analyses on 23 genes with 60 SNPs (19 studies and 6246 participants). Thirteen individual SNPs (ABCB1‐rs2032582, ABCB1‐rs3213619, BCL6/‐rs1903216, /CAND1‐rs17781082, CYP1B1‐rs1056836, CYP2C8‐rs10509681, CYP2C8‐rs11572080, EPHA5‐rs7349683, EPHA6‐rs301927, FZD3‐rs7001034, GSTP1‐rs1138272, TUBB2A‐rs9501929, and XKR4‐rs4737264) and the overall SNPs' effect in four genes (CYP3A4, EphA5, GSTP1, and SLCO1B1) were statistically significantly associated with TIPN through meta‐analysis. In conclusion, through systematic review and meta‐analysis, we found that polymorphisms, and particularly 13 SNPs, are associated with TIPN, suggesting that genetics does play a role in interindividual predisposition. Further studies could potentially use these findings to develop individual risk profiles and guide decision making.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation regulates neuroinflammation, relieves hyperalgesia and reverses despair‐like behaviour in chronic constriction injury rats
Authors: Hu Yue , Zhu Yuanliang , Wen Xin , Zeng Fanshuo , Feng Yue , Xu Zhangyu , Xu Fangyuan , Wang Jianxiong
Published: July 2022

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could effectively relieve the pain and depression in neuropathic pain (NP) patients. However, the specific treatment parameters and exact mechanism are still unclear. Our purpose is to observe the effects of rTMS on pain and despair‐like behaviour in chronic constriction injury (CCI) rats and explore its possible mechanism. Thirty‐two 8‐week‐old male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham operation group (S, n = 8), CCI group (n = 8), 1 Hz‐rTMS group (n = 8) and 10 Hz‐rTMS group (n = 8). The rTMS was applied to the left dorsal anterior agranular insular (AId) 1 week after the operation, once a day, 5 days/week for 4 consecutive weeks. Mechanical hyperalgesia, despair‐like behaviours and sciatic nerve function were used to evaluate the effects of rTMS. Besides, glucose metabolism, the metabotropic glutamate receptors 5 (mGluR5), N‐Methyl‐D‐Aspartic acid receptor type 2B (NMDAR2B), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (Ll‐6) and interleukin‐1β (Ll‐1β) in AId were tested to explore the possible mechanism. Compared with 1 Hz‐rTMS, the rats of 10 Hz‐rTMS had higher the mechanical hyperalgesia, higher sugar preference and shorter swimming immobility time. Besides, the expressions of mGluR5, NMDAR2B, TNF‐α, Ll‐1β and Ll‐6 both in 1 Hz‐rTMS and 10 Hz‐rTMS groups were reduced compared with the CCI group; the 10 Hz‐rTMS group had a more decrease than that of 1 Hz‐rTMS. Furthermore, the [18]F‐FDG uptake was lower than that in the 1 Hz‐rTMS group. Compared with 1 Hz‐rTMS, 10 Hz‐rTMS could more effectively relieve mechanical hyperalgesia and reverse despair‐like behaviour in rats. The mechanism could be related to regulating mGluR5/NMDAR2B‐related inflammatory signalling pathways in the AId.
A new theory for soil health
Authors: Harris James A. , Evans Daniel L. , Mooney Sacha J.
Published: July 2022

The term “soil health” has captured the interest of government, and land managers, whilst the academic community has struggled to rationalise its use and wider benefit. It has proved a powerful tool in conveying best practice to a lay audience. However, the widespread adoption of the “metaphor” has resulted in calls for tools that facilitate the measurement of soil health, preferably quantitatively, and often as a single figure, for ease of use/communication and cost of monitoring. The insurmountable problem is that soil health is neither a readily quantifiable nor measurable object. Only organisms can have ‘health’, which manifests as characteristics of a living system—true of complex systems exhibiting “emergent” properties such as resilience in the face of perturbation. We pose the key question: is soil really a system capable of exhibiting “health”, or any other property emerging from a complex, connected, self‐regulating system? We argue that if you cannot detect emergent properties, you are: (i) looking at the wrong dynamic parameter; (ii) not considering the entire system; or (iii) not evaluating a system at all. We suggest that our focus should instead be on the relationships between components, complexity, and function. Using this as a basis for a new framework will allow us to assemble and align disparate threads of soil science into a cogent and coherent “new theory of soil health”, which is an essential and practical step forward for the sustainable management of global soil resources, across all land uses.

Highlights

The term “soil health” is widely used, but understood and used in different ways.

Health is a characteristic of an identifiable entity – usually an organism or discrete system.

To identify and measure soil health we need to discover its system properties and their dependence on complexity and connectivity.

The scale at which system properties emerge is currently unclear.

We suggest a broad programme of research to identify dynamic emergent properties, especially resilience, in order to determine soil health.
Genetic interaction between Scn8a and potassium channel genes Kcna1 and Kcnq2
Authors: Hill Sophie F. , Ziobro Julie M. , Jafar‐Nejad Paymaan , Rigo Frank , Meisler Miriam H.
Published: July 2022

Voltage‐gated sodium and potassium channels regulate the initiation and termination of neuronal action potentials. Gain‐of‐function mutations of sodium channel Scn8a and loss‐of‐function mutations of potassium channels Kcna1 and Kcnq2 increase neuronal activity and lead to seizure disorders. We tested the hypothesis that reducing the expression of Scn8a would compensate for loss‐of‐function mutations of Kcna1 or Kcnq2. Scn8a expression was reduced by the administration of an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO). This treatment lengthened the survival of the Kcn1a and Kcnq2 mutants, and reduced the seizure frequency in the Kcnq2 mutant mice. These observations suggest that reduction of SCN8A may be therapeutic for genetic epilepsies resulting from mutations in these potassium channel genes.
Blinded comparison of mirror and endoscopic oral examination in the horse: Sensitivity, specificity and observer agreement
Authors: Chiero Naomi E. , Reiswig Jeffrey D. , Griffin Cleet E. , Panigrahi Kathryn J. , Gardner Alison K.
Published: July 2022

Background

Dental disease is commonly encountered in equine veterinary practice. Due to the horse's deep oral cavity, direct visual examination alone is not adequate for a complete oral evaluation. Typically, a long‐handled dental mirror is used as a visual aid. Oral endoscopy is another option to improve visual examination of the mouth. Although recent literature suggests endoscopy is superior to mirror examination, these modalities have not been compared in a blinded study.

Objective

The objective of the study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of identifying dental pathologies between oral mirror and rigid endoscopic examination, as well as evaluating the inter‐ and intra‐observer variability of each modality.

Study design

Prospective randomised trial.

Methods

Twenty‐one horses underwent oral examination using a mirror and an endoscope with video recording of both techniques. An additional six horses received both premortem and post‐mortem examinations. Two blinded observers evaluated the video recordings and identified the presence of dental pathology to determine inter‐observer and intraobserver agreement. Live examinations were compared with the six post‐mortem examinations to determine sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Endoscopy sensitivity was far superior to mirror for all pathologies (83% vs. 39%), while specificity was high for both (71% vs. 87%, respectively) when compared to the gold‐standard post‐mortem examination. Inter‐observer agreement for the presence of pathology using endoscopy was substantial and higher than mirror examination. Intra‐observer agreement was moderate to substantial.

Main limitations

The study was limited by the small number of horses and post‐mortem examinations, although sample size was increased by assessing the pathology of each tooth.

Conclusions

Moderate to substantial agreement was found using both endoscopy and mirror examination. Sensitivity was improved with endoscopy. Oral endoscopy may be beneficial for use in monitoring dental disease over time, as many minor pathologies do not require immediate intervention. Endoscopic and mirror videos may also prove valuable in veterinary education.
The key role of a basic domain of histone H2B N‐terminal tail in the action of 5‐bromodeoxyuridine to induce cellular senescence
Authors: En Atsuki , Watanabe Kazuaki , Ayusawa Dai , Fujii Michihiko
Published: July 2022

5‐Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), a thymidine analogue, is an interesting reagent that modulates various biological phenomena. BrdU, upon incorporation into DNA, causes destabilized nucleosome positioning which leads to changes in heterochromatin organization and gene expression in cells. We have previously shown that BrdU effectively induces cellular senescence, a phenomenon of irreversible growth arrest in mammalian cells. Identification of the mechanism of action of BrdU would provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence. Here, we showed that a basic domain in the histone H2B N‐terminal tail, termed the HBR (histone H2B repression) domain, is involved in the action of BrdU. Notably, deletion of the HBR domain causes destabilized nucleosome positioning and derepression of gene expression, as does BrdU. We also showed that the genes up‐regulated by BrdU significantly overlapped with those by deletion of the HBR domain, the result of which suggested that BrdU and deletion of the HBR domain act in a similar way. Furthermore, we showed that decreased HBR domain function induced cellular senescence or facilitated the induction of cellular senescence. These findings indicated that the HBR domain is crucially involved in the action of BrdU, and also suggested that disordered nucleosome organization may be involved in the induction of cellular senescence.
Local temperature increases reduce soil microbial residues and carbon stocks
Authors: Zeng Xiao‐Min , Feng Jiao , Yu Dai‐Lin , Wen Shu‐Hai , Zhang Qianggong , Huang Qiaoyun , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Liu Yu‐Rong
Published: July 2022

Warming is known to reduce soil carbon (C) stocks by promoting microbial respiration, which is associated with the decomposition of microbial residue carbon (MRC). However, the relative contribution of MRC to soil organic carbon (SOC) across temperature gradients is poorly understood. Here, we investigated the contribution of MRC to SOC along two independent elevation gradients of our model system (i.e., the Tibetan Plateau and Shennongjia Mountain in China). Our results showed that local temperature increases were negatively correlated with MRC and SOC. Further analyses revealed that rising temperature reduced SOC via decreasing MRC, which helps to explain future reductions in SOC under climate warming. Our findings demonstrate that climate warming has the potential to reduce C sequestration by increasing the decomposition of MRC, exacerbating the positive feedback between rising temperature and CO2 efflux. Our study also considered the influence of multiple environmental factors such as soil pH and moisture, which were more important in controlling SOC than microbial traits such as microbial life‐style strategies and metabolic efficiency. Together, our work suggests an important mechanism underlying long‐term soil C sequestration, which has important implications for the microbial‐mediated C process in the face of global climate change.
Implementing public involvement throughout the research process—Experience and learning from the GPs in EDs study
Authors: Evans Bridie Angela , Carson‐Stevens Andrew , Cooper Alison , Davies Freya , Edwards Michelle , Harrington Barbara , Hepburn Julie , Hughes Tom , Price Delyth , Siriwardena Niroshan A. , Snooks Helen , Edwards Adrian
Published: July 2022

Background

Public involvement in health services research is encouraged. Descriptions of public involvement across the whole research cycle of a major study are uncommon and its effects on research conduct are poorly understood.

Aim

This study aimed to describe how we implemented public involvement, reflect on process and effects in a large‐scale multi‐site research study and present learning for future involvement practice.

Method

We recorded public involvement roles and activities throughout the study and compared these to our original public involvement plan included in our project proposal. We held a group interview with study co‐applicants to explore their experiences, transcribed the recorded discussion and conducted thematic analysis. We synthesized the findings to develop recommendations for future practice.

Results

Public contributors' activities went beyond strategic study planning and management to include active involvement in data collection, analysis and dissemination. They attended management, scrutiny, planning and task meetings. They also facilitated public involvement through annual planning and review sessions, conducted a Public Involvement audit and coordinated public and patient input to stakeholder discussions at key study stages. Group interview respondents said that involvement exceeded their expectations. They identified effects such as changes to patient recruitment, terminology clarification and extra dissemination activities. They identified factors enabling effective involvement including team and leader commitment, named support contact, building relationships and demonstrating equality and public contributors being confident to challenge and flexible to meet researchers' timescales and work patterns. There were challenges matching resources to roles and questions about the risk of over‐professionalizing public contributors.

Conclusion

We extended our planned approach to public involvement and identified benefits to the research process that were both specific and general. We identified good practice to support effective public involvement in health services research that study teams should consider in planning and undertaking research.

Public Contribution

This paper was co‐conceived, co‐planned and co‐authored by public contributors to contribute research evidence, based on their experiences of active involvement in the design, implementation and dissemination of a major health services research study.
Learning from hair moisture sorption and hysteresis
Authors: Breakspear Steven , Frueh Patrick , Neu Anna , Noecker Bernd , Popescu Crisan , Uellner Qi
Published: July 2022

Objective

The process of moisture sorption and desorption by human hair was analysed for extracting hints on the hair structure.

Methods

The isotherms of moisture sorption and desorption by hair were recorded for untreated and chemically treated (permed and bleached) hair. Data of swelling were also considered.

Results

By examining the swelling and moisture sorption of keratin fibres, it is possible to conclude that hysteresis is quite improbably caused by capillary condensation. The mobility of the protein chains and the strength of the bonds binding water molecules to the active sites inside the matrix are proposed as causes instead. The concept of “breaking symmetry”, derived from moisture sorption– desorption data, and the method of evaluating this parameter, is proposed as a way of characterizing the chemical treatment of hair. The results show that bleaching produces a larger breaking of symmetry than perming, and this is suggested to be due to new hydrogen bonds, created as a result of the chemical treatment, replacing the original disulphide bonds, which are of different strength compared to the bonds of untreated hair. The quantitative sorption data matched well to the model of grains of matrix enveloped in layers of water molecules at increasing relative humidity, up to 100%. The analysis suggested that, aside from the glass transition event occurring at around 60%–70% relative humidity, there is another, less examined, transition occurring at around 30% relative humidity, assigned to the opening of the hair inner structure, and accommodation of more water molecules. Both transitions are reflected by corresponding changes in the fibre mechanical behaviour.

Conclusion

The moisture sorption–desorption by hair was shown to not only allow a quantitative differentiation among various cosmetic treatments of the hair but to also provide valuable information on the structure of the fibre.