bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilayer network analysis for the interconnectedness between financial sectors and new energy companies in China
Authors: Dai Zhifeng , Zhu Haoyang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We investigate the interconnectedness between the financial sectors and new energy companies in China from the perspective of the multilayer network, and analyze the static and time-varying characteristics of the multilayer network at system and company levels, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ the multilayer network containing the realized volatility (RV here after) layer, the realized skewness (RS here after) layer and the realized kurtosis (RK here after) layer. The three realized indicators adopted to construct the multilayer network are generated by the intraday trading data from 2012 to 2022.

Findings

(1) Different layers have different characteristics, and can provide supplementary information. (2) Banks tend to play the role of risk transmitters on the whole, while the insurances and new energy companies tend to play the role of risk receivers on average. (3) The connectedness strength of financial sectors and new energy companies varies over time, and climbs sharply during the major crisis events. The roles of financial sectors and new energy companies may change from risk transmitters to risk receivers, and vice versa.

Originality/value

We adopt three realized indicators to construct the three-layer network, which provides a more comprehensive perspective for understanding the connectedness between the financial sectors and new energy companies in China.
Modeling of partially oriented spring-exchange magnetic composites
Authors: Ziolkowski Grzegorz , Chrobak Artur , Chrobak Dariusz
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The presentation refers to simulations of magnetization processes of the spring-exchange magnetic composites containing magnetically soft and ultra-high coercive phases. In particular, the aim of this study is to investigate the possibility of reducing expensive rare earth (RE) in the so-called neodymium magnets and improving their efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to model hysteresis loops, a special disorder-based Monte Carlo procedure, suitable for irregular geometry of the composites, was applied. The chosen system parameters were defined in order to model Nd2Fe14B/Fe composites.

Findings

The results suggest potential for optimizing hard magnetic composites. Magnetization curve parameters are sensitive to grain coupling and easy magnetization axis ordering. Strong coupling for a single-phase hysteresis loop is unachievable for grains above a certain size, i.e. found to be a few hundred nanometers. Considering these factors and their interdependencies, it’s possible to enhance the |BH|max parameter or reduce the RE content.

Research limitations/implications

The research was carried out using computer simulations, which by their nature are only approximations of physical processes. The next stage of research is to produce the described composites and test their actual properties.

Practical implications

The research enhances permanent magnets, boosting efficiency in technologies like wind turbines and electric motors, indirectly benefiting the environment. It also reduces RE elements in magnets for environmental, economic and political gains.

Originality/value

The unique approach is to consider the random orientation of the magnetic anisotropy of the hard magnetic grains, which is close to real powder composites. The results provide valuable guidance for the production process of permanent magnets.
Automatic generation of inspection knowledge for highway construction via the integration of computer vision and ontology reasoning
Authors: Li Fangxin , Xu Xin , Zhou Jingwen , Chen Jiawei , Zhou Shenbei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Current practices for inspecting highway construction predominantly rely on manual processes, which result in subjective assessments, errors and time inefficiencies. The purpose of this study is to address the inefficiencies and potential inaccuracies inherent in manual highway construction inspections. By leveraging computer vision and ontology reasoning, the study seeks an automated and efficient approach to generate structured construction inspection knowledge in the format of checklists for construction activities on highway construction job sites.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a four-module framework based on computer vision and ontology reasoning to enable the automatic generation of checklists for quality inspection. The framework includes: (1) the interpretation of construction scenes based on computer vision, (2) the representation of inspection knowledge into structured checklists through specification processing, (3) the connection of construction scenes and inspection knowledge via ontology reasoning and (4) the development of a prototype for the automatic generation of checklists for highway construction.

Findings

The proposed framework is implemented across four distinct highway construction scenarios. The case demonstrations show that the framework can interpret construction scenes and link them with relevant inspection knowledge automatically, resulting in the efficient generation of structured checklists. Therefore, the proposed framework indicates considerable potential for application in the automatic generation of inspection knowledge for the quality inspection of highway construction.

Originality/value

The scientific and practical values of this study are: (1) the establishment of a new method that promotes the automated generation of structured inspection knowledge for highway construction by integrating computer vision and ontology reasoning and (2) the development of a novel framework that provides efficient and immediate access to inspection knowledge related to what needs to be inspected at highway construction job sites.
Fishers' preference for mobile traceability platform: challenges in achieving a digital tuna supply chain in Davao Region, Philippines
Authors: Untal Faizal John P. , Castro Miko Mariz C. , Sarmiento Jon Marx
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Current catch documentation and traceability practices in the Philippines are paper-based. However, with technological advancements, a shift toward electronic documentation has become a global trend to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This study aims to determine the factors influencing fishers' preference for a mobile traceability platform and identify the challenges in achieving a digital tuna supply chain in Davao Region, Philippines.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 178 tuna fishers was conducted in select sites in Davao Region using a semi-structured questionnaire. Factors influencing fishers' preference for a mobile traceability platform were identified using logistic regression.

Findings

Results revealed that one-third of the fishers (34.5%) preferred a mobile traceability platform. Membership in organizations and higher educational attainment increased the preference for a mobile traceability platform. Meanwhile, respondents' knowledge was associated with a preference for paper-based traceability. This association between knowledge and preference was in the context of catch recording performed by government agencies and fisherfolk associations in landing sites. Intensified support aimed at increasing the fishers' literacy and access to technological devices, including the internet and smartphones, is emphasized to provide them with the basic requirements for participating in mobile traceability systems. Moreover, several challenges in implementing digital traceability beyond fisherfolk were identified.

Originality/value

This study amplifies the need for infrastructure and legislation to support the implementation of a digital tuna supply chain and eliminate IUU fishing.
SEN-CTD: semantic enhancement network with content-title discrepancy for fake news detection
Authors: Fang Jiaqi , Ma Kun , Qiu Yanfang , Ji Ke , Chen Zhenxiang , Yang Bo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The discrepancy between the content of an article and its title is a key characteristic of fake news. Current methods for detecting fake news often ignore the significant difference in length between the content and its title. In addition, relying solely on textual discrepancies between the title and content to distinguish between real and fake news has proven ineffective. The purpose of this paper is to develop a new approach called semantic enhancement network with content–title discrepancy (SEN–CTD), which enhances the accuracy of fake news detection.

Design/methodology/approach

The SEN–CTD framework is composed of two primary modules: the SEN and the content–title comparison network (CTCN). The SEN is designed to enrich the representation of news titles by integrating external information and position information to capture the context. Meanwhile, the CTCN focuses on assessing the consistency between the content of news articles and their corresponding titles examining both emotional tones and semantic attributes.

Findings

The SEN–CTD model performs well on the GossipCop, PolitiFact and RealNews data sets, achieving accuracies of 80.28%, 86.88% and 84.96%, respectively. These results highlight its effectiveness in accurately detecting fake news across different types of content.

Originality/value

The SEN is specifically designed to improve the representation of extremely short texts, enhancing the depth and accuracy of analyses for brief content. The CTCN is tailored to examine the consistency between news titles and their corresponding content, ensuring a thorough comparative evaluation of both emotional and semantic discrepancies.
Unveiling the drivers of corporate social responsibility in Nepal: a qualitative inquiry across industry sectors
Authors: Chapagain Bal Ram , Baniya Rojan , Biswakarma Gangaram
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Considering the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) drivers in corporate behavior and, ultimately, in business and society relationships, this study aims to investigate the CSR drivers in Nepal.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs an exploratory qualitative research design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 executives and managers of listed companies in Nepal. A reflexive thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Strategic imperatives, coercive factors and moral considerations characterize the major drivers of firms’ CSR practices in Nepal. Specifically, a firm’s reputation, publicity, legal requirements, enlightened shared values and cultural tradition are the main drivers of CSR. Strategic imperatives are the main drivers of CSR for banking and financial institutions, whereas external institutional pressures are the main drivers for other sectors.

Practical implications

Managers can make institutional arrangements for CSR to fulfill their strategic needs and better respond to formal (e.g. legal requirements) and informal (e.g. cultural tradition) institutional factors. Policymakers can incorporate fiscal-economic instruments, such as CSR awards, in CSR-related legal provisions to simultaneously fulfill the strategic needs of the business and social goals of the government.

Originality/value

This study uncovers vivid CSR drivers in a distinct socioeconomic context of Nepal. Likewise, this is perhaps the first research regarding the drivers of CSR, exploring the views from different managerial levels and covering diverse industry sectors in the least developed country contexts like Nepal.
Advances in the development of polyester resin composites: a review
Authors: Ezeh Ernest Mbamalu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

One of the most innovative materials available today is polyester resin, which finds application in a wide range of industries, including consumer products, automotive, aircraft, marine, construction, sports and renewable energy, due to its impressive mechanical properties and low cost. In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in the development of polyester resin composites. This paper aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in the field of polyester resin composites.

Design/methodology/approach

The review introduces the properties of polyester resins and the fabrication techniques used to prepare polyester resin composites. It provides an overview of the reinforcement materials such as fibers and nanoparticles that are commonly used to enhance the properties of the composites. Recent advances in the use of fillers such as nanocellulose, graphene and carbon nanotubes are also discussed. This work highlights the latest developments in the functionalization of polyester resin composites, which aims to improve the properties of the composite materials for specific applications in diverse fields such as aerospace, biomedical and energy. It highlights how collaborations worldwide, business and academia are working together to advance polyester resin composite technologies.

Findings

The study emphasizes how urgent it is to adopt sustainable practices, which, in turn, is driving research into polyester resins that are recycled and biobased to create a circular economy. Constant advancements open up new possibilities for application development and improve performance, such as nanotechnology and smart materials. Furthermore, businesses are being revolutionized by sophisticated production processes like 3Dimensional printing and Internet of Things integration, which enable mass customization and real-time monitoring. These partnerships advance the sector and encourage the use of polyester resin composites in environmentally friendly applications. The remarkable mechanical, thermal and chemical capabilities of polyester resin composites are highlighted, showcasing their importance in a range of applications.

Originality/value

The study is a major step toward a sustainable tomorrow since it highlights the potential of polyester resin composites to build a more durable and environmentally friendly future. This review paper summarizes the recent advances in the development of polyester resin composites, highlighting their potential for advancing technologies in various fields. The knowledge gained from this review paper will undoubtedly aid researchers in designing novel polyester resin composite materials with tailored properties for specific applications.
Contrast‐enhanced mammography improves patient access to functional breast imaging
Authors: Taylor Donna B , Kessell Meredith A , Parizel Paul M
Published: November 2024

Imaging research pathways focus increasingly on the development of individualised approaches to breast cancer detection, diagnosis and management. Detection of breast cancer with X‐ray mammography may fail in some cancer subtypes with limited changes in morphology/tissue density and in women with dense breasts. International organisations offer recommendations for contrast‐enhanced breast imaging, as it provides superior sensitivity for screening, local staging and assessment of neoadjuvant treatment response, when compared with standard X‐ray mammography (including tomosynthesis) and breast ultrasound. Arguably, the evidence base is stronger for contrast‐enhanced MRI (CE‐MRI). Unfortunately, patient access to breast MRI in rural and remote areas is limited by practical limitations and equipment licensing restrictions. Moreover, breast MRI is an expensive test, likely to be out of reach for many women. Contrast‐enhanced mammography (CEM) offers an attractive alternative to improve patient access to functional breast imaging. It is a new type of digital, dual energy X‐ray mammography that can be performed on most modern units, following a relatively inexpensive hard‐ and software upgrade. In this paper, we review the rapidly accumulating evidence that CEM can provide similar diagnostic accuracy to CE‐MRI, though at a significantly lower cost and offering greater comfort to the patient. The adoption of CEM can help meet the anticipated increased demand for CE‐MRI.
Assessment of cervical spine CT by an image quality audit using qualitative and quantitative methods
Authors: Bajwa Hooryia , Sritharan Thenugaa , Botha Tanita , Jackson Price , McAnulty Kim , Lim Lincoln J , Tran Phillip V , Reeves Shane , Biffin Leah , Narayanan Harish
Published: November 2024

Introduction

To study the feasibility and assess the correlation of qualitative and quantitative methods for an image quality (IQ) audit of a Cervical spine CT.

Methods

Five radiologists retrospectively performed a blinded visual grading analysis (VGA) on 20 studies (10 from Protocol 1 and 10 from Protocol 2), using the RANZCR CT IQ Self‐Audit worksheet. A Visual Grading Analysis Score (VGAS) and Area under the curve using Visual Grading Characteristics (AUCVGC) were the figures of merit. Quantitative metrics for noise and contrast were correlated to the qualitative assessment.

Results

No statistically significant difference was observed in the IQ, VGASProtocol 1 = 0.65, 95% CI [0.54, 0.75] and VGASProtocol 2 = 0.73, 95% CI [0.67, 0.79] and AUCVGC = 0.548, 95% CI [0.40, 0.69]. Protocol 2 indicated a statistically significant average dose reduction of 35% in CTDIvol (P = 0.020) and a higher noise; however, the difference was statistically insignificant. There was a moderate correlation between the manual noise measurements in soft tissue and air (P = 0.035) and a strong correlation between the manual and automated noise measurements (P < 0.001). The contrast resolution‐based quantitative parameter, EdgeGradientSoft, correlated to the qualitative scores (P = 0.031).

Conclusion

Validated VGA tools can be used for IQ audits; however, tailoring the image criteria and rating scale to the clinical practice is suggested. The use of contrast‐based IQ metrics showed encouraging results, and further larger‐scale studies are needed to explore their potential use in quality management.
Generating spatially realistic environmental null models with the shift‐&‐rotate approach helps evaluate false positives in species distribution modelling
Authors: Ridder Grace I. , Hardy Olivier J. , Ovaskainen Otso
Published: November 2024

To circumvent reporting spurious correlations, species distribution models often explicitly account for spatial autocorrelation, for example by including spatially structured random effects. The validity of statistical inference derived from such models has been tested by simulations using null environmental predictors that do not have any causal dependency with the response. Such null environmental predictors can be obtained by permutations of the original predictors or by simulating spatial structures resembling the original predictors. In such approaches, it is important that the permuted or simulated predictors reflect the nature of spatial variation present in the original predictors.

Here we present a novel approach for generating realistic null predictors by a shift‐&‐rotate (S&R) approach: we extract environmental variables after randomly translating and rotating the sampling area within a window of defined environmental layers. In this way, the null environmental variables have fully realistic spatial variation and covariation, but no relationship to the response variable. We implement the S&R approach to three main R‐functions and demonstrate with a simulation study how they can be used to untangle causal versus non‐causal relationships within species distribution modelling.

These methods allow us to quantify the predictive power attributed within the models due to non‐causal correlations generated by the realistic structure of the environmental covariates. In our case study, we identify when a model incorrectly estimates parameter values, yet still has high predictive power due to the structured nature of the predictor variables.

The use of null models is imperative in ecological modelling for testing the accuracy of statistical inference in complex ecological systems and the choice of these null models is far from trivial. Here we provide R functions for generating spatially realistic null models to use in species distribution modelling as well as other spatially explicit fields such as landscape genetics.
Communication barriers to optimal access to emergency rooms according to deaf and hard‐of‐hearing patients and health care workers: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Tannenbaum‐Baruchi Carolina , Feder‐Bubis Paula , Aharonson‐Daniel Limor
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to identify communication barriers between health care workers (HCWs) and deaf and hard‐of‐hearing (DHH) patients. Both perspectives are offered to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Methods

Two consecutive studies were conducted from 2018 to 2021. Study 1 comprised mixed methods, employing a cross‐sectional survey (n = 288) and in‐depth interviews (n = 9) with DHH participants, utilizing accessible tools including sign language. Study 2 involved a cross‐sectional survey of health care emergency workers without hearing loss (N = 391).

Results

The perceived self‐efficacy of DHH patients, and not their hearing loss, was linked with their ability to communicate independently with HCWs. No significant differences in successful communication with these providers were found vis‐à‐vis mode of communication utilized (sign language, writing, interpreter, etc.). In the qualitative findings, DHH patients noted two urgent care barriers: HCWs' communication unfamiliarity and patients’ communication accessibility issues. Quantitative findings indicated a main barrier: difficulties in communicating with HCWs in general (57%) and specifically in the emergency room (ER; 65%). Only 28.8% reported being able to independently communicate with ER staff. Health care providers were not familiar with effective communication strategies when treating these patients. Respondents indicating that communication was not a barrier to care were mainly administrative staff (54.55%), compared to nurses (32.74%) and physicians (22.58%).

Conclusions

Communication solutions are needed to improve access to health services, especially in emergencies. Providing medical staff training on effective communication strategies with these patients could simplify interactions and reduce the reliance on hearing family members, potentially improving medical care. Implementing a communication policy for frontline staff, along with the use of visual aids, is crucial. Health care professionals may not realize that small changes can greatly improve communication with DHH patients.
Subchondral curettage cement packing in the distal radius causes wrist joint degeneration: long‐term evaluation of distal radius giant‐cell bone tumour
Authors: Bayram Serkan , Yıldırım Ahmet Müçteba , Salduz Ahmet , Ünverengil Gökçen , Alpan Buğra , Bilgiç Bilge , Eralp Levent , Özger Harzem
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study investigated wrist joint degeneration after curettage and PMMA treatment for giant cell bone tumours (GCBT) at the distal radius.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single‐centre study, which included 23 patients with GCBT at distal radius treated with curettage and PMMA between 2001 and 2021. The progression of wrist joint degeneration was assessed through radiographic evidence, comparing the postoperative grade with both the preoperative grade and the grade of the contralateral wrist at the latest follow‐up. We also analyzed the influence of age, sex, tumour distance of the joint, subchondral bone involvement, tumour size and body mass index.

Results

The study included 23 patients with a mean age of 32.1 ± 13.3 years. The average duration of follow‐up was 96.4 ± 69 months (range, 24–265 months). The mean tumour–cartilage distance was 1.79 ± 2.4 mm (range, 0–10 mm) and the mean BMI was 23.5 ± 3.8 kg/m2. Degeneration of the wrist joint was evident in 16 patients (69.6%) at the final assessment, however, 10 patients (43.4%) were identified as having a progression of joint degeneration secondary to the surgical procedure among the 16 patients with wrist joint degeneration at the final control view. Age, gender, dominance, tumour–cartilage distance, subchondral bone involvement, tumour size, patient height, weight, and BMI were not associated with secondary joint degeneration.

Conclusions

Ten of 23 patients developed wrist joint degeneration over an average follow‐up period of 8 years, and no particular factors associated with the degeneration were identified.
CEO Locality and Employment Stickiness
Authors: Park Sohee , Bolor‐Erdene Batjargal , Jung Keumah , Sunwoo Hee‐Yeon
Published: November 2024

We explore whether CEOs’ hometown identity involves labour adjustment decisions. We document that local CEOs, with their hometown ties, reduce employment to a lesser degree following sales downturns than nonlocal CEOs. This finding suggests that local CEOs’ strong local attachments motivate them to prioritise employee interests and build good reputations, which create private benefits or reserve future career paths in their hometowns. Our findings are more pronounced in areas where local connections are highly valued, thus supporting our argument. We further find that the retention efforts of local CEOs are related to low future performance. We extend the cost stickiness literature by documenting that CEOs’ place attachment influences resource adjustment decisions, particularly regarding labour, which eventually influences subsequent performance.
SUBSTITUTION BETWEEN CLEAN AND DIRTY ENERGY WITH BIASED TECHNICAL CHANGE
Authors: Jo Ara
Published: November 2024

The elasticity of substitution between clean and dirty energy lies at the center of leading economic analyses of climate policy. Despite the importance, empirical assessments of this key parameter remain scarce. This article estimates the clean‐dirty elasticity of substitution using data on French manufacturing firms. Using the elasticity estimates, I then measure the bias in technical change at the firm level and find that technical change was largely biased toward dirty energy, despite a recent shift toward clean technologies. Finally, I recover the aggregate elasticity that combines substitution within firms and reallocation across firms from the micro elasticity estimates.
Comparison of microneedling and CO2 laser with adipose‐derived stem cells for facial rejuvenation: a randomized split‐face study
Authors: delaO‐Escamilla Alejandra , Valdez‐Zertuche Jair A. , Lara‐Arias Jorge , Noyola‐Pérez Andrés , Villarreal‐Martínez Alejandra , Chávez‐Álvarez Sonia , Cuéllar‐Barboza Adrián , Franco‐Márquez Rodolfo , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge , Vázquez‐Martínez Osvaldo T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Facial aging, characterized by structural decline and loss of collagen and elastin, has led to increased demand for rejuvenation treatments. Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) have emerged as a promising option, but comparative studies on their application methods are limited.

Objective

Our aim was to compare the efficacy of ADSC combined with microneedling or CO2 laser for facial rejuvenation.

Methods

Twenty‐seven participants were randomized into two groups: Microneedling (MN, n = 14) or CO2 laser (n = 13). Each group underwent three treatment sessions at 4‐week intervals. The ADSC solution was applied to one side and the placebo to the other using a split‐face design. We performed objective evaluations (UV spots, brown spots, wrinkles, texture, pores, red areas, and porphyrins) and subjective assessments, including clinical photographs, patient satisfaction scales, and histological analysis of skin biopsies.

Results

The CO2 laser with the ADSC group showed significantly more significant improvements in UV spots (P = 0.002) and wrinkles (P = 0.002) compared to the MN with the ADSC group. Histological analysis revealed superior elastin fibers and epidermal thickness improvements with CO2 laser treatment. Patient satisfaction was higher in the CO2 laser group, with 84.6% reporting complete satisfaction compared to 50% in the MN group.

Conclusions

The combination of CO2 laser with ADSCs demonstrated superior efficacy for facial rejuvenation compared to MN with ADSCs. This approach improved UV spots, wrinkles, skin structure, and overall patient satisfaction. Further studies with larger cohorts and extended follow‐up are needed to confirm long‐term efficacy.
GC–MS‐based metabonomic analysis of silkworm haemolymph reveals four‐stage metabolic responses to nucleopolyhedrovirus infection
Authors: Su Zhenyue , Li Yi , Lin Zihan , Huang Qing , Fan Xinyu , Dong Zhaoming , Xia Qingyou , Zhao Ping , Wang Xin
Published: November 2024

Silkworm, Bombyx mori, an economically significant insect, plays a crucial role in silk production. However, silkworm breeding is highly susceptible to various pathogens, particularly the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), which poses a serious threat. Recent metabonomic studies have provided insights into the metabolic changes associated with BmNPV infection. BmNPV infection has obvious temporal characteristics. However, few studies have investigated the silkworms infected in different periods. This study employed gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to perform a comprehensive analysis of haemolymph metabolites in silkworms at 48, 72, 96 and 120 h post‐infection (h.p.i.). Through the integration of time‐course analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment, the study revealed distinct four‐stage metabolic characteristics in the silkworm's response to BmNPV infection. At Stage 1 (48 h.p.i.), silkworms activate antioxidant defence mechanisms, with significant enrichment in metabolic pathways involving key antioxidants such as glutathione, to mitigate oxidative stress induced by viral invasion. By Stage 2 (72 h.p.i.), pathways related to amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis become active, indicating an increase in protein synthesis. In Stage 3 (96 h.p.i.), energy metabolism and substance transport pathways are significantly upregulated to support the rapid viral replication and the enhanced locomotor behaviour of silkworm. Finally, at Stage 4 (120 h.p.i.), there is a further enhancement of pathways related to energy metabolism, nucleic acid synthesis, and substance transport, which align with peak viral assembly and release. These findings contribute to an in‐depth understanding of the biochemical basis of silkworm resistance to NPV.
Plexin‐B2 Mediates Orthodontic Tension‐Induced Osteogenesis via the RhoA/F‐Actin/YAP Pathway
Authors: Li Qiming , Chen Xinyi , Li Xinyi , Jiang Xiaoge , Li Xingjian , Men Xinrui , Li Yan , Chen Song
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aims to investigate the role of Plexin‐B2 in tension‐induced osteogenesis of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) and its biomechanical mechanism.

Methods

In vitro, cyclic tension simulated orthodontic forces to assess Plexin‐B2 expression in PDLSCs. We then knocked out Plexin‐B2 using lentivirus to explore its role in tension‐induced osteogenesis. In vivo, we used nickel‐titanium springs to establish orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) models in mice. Local periodontal Plexin‐B2 expression was knocked down using adeno‐associated viruses (AAVs) to study its influence on new bone formation under mechanical tension in OTM models. Molecular mechanisms were elucidated by manipulating Plexin‐B2 and RhoA expression, assessing related proteins, and observing F‐actin and Yes‐associated protein (YAP) through immunofluorescence.

Results

Plexin‐B2 expression in PDLSCs increased under cyclic tension. Decrease of Plexin‐B2 reduced the expression of osteogenic protein in PDLSCs and negatively affected new bone formation during OTM. RhoA expression and phosphorylation of ROCK2/LIMK2/Cofilin decreased in Plexin‐B2 knockout PDLSCs but were reversed by RhoA overexpression. The level of F‐actin decreased in Plexin‐B2 knockout PDLSCs but increased after RhoA rescue. Nuclear YAP was reduced in Plexin‐B2 knockout PDLSCs but increased after RhoA overexpression.

Conclusions

Plexin‐B2 is involved in tension‐induced osteogenesis. Mechanistically, the RhoA signaling pathway, the F‐actin arrangement, and the nuclear translocation of YAP are involved in the mechanotransduction of Plexin‐B2.
Clinico‐Pathological Spectrum of Hepatitis A Virus‐Induced Autoimmune‐Like Hepatitis in Children
Authors: Das Samannay , Sood Vikrant , Rastogi Archana , Agarwal Neha , Kaul Sanjeevani , Yadav Deepika , Lal Bikrant Bihari , Khanna Rajeev , Alam Seema
Published: November 2024

There is limited evidence that hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection can trigger hepatic autoimmunity, but this area remains largely unexplored. This study was thus planned with the aim to compare HAV‐induced autoimmune‐like hepatitis (HAV‐ALH) with HAV‐related liver dysfunction (HAV‐acute viral hepatitis or HAV‐AVH) and classical autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). This was a retrospective review of 46 patients with HAV infection who underwent liver biopsy (including 17 cases of HAV‐ALH: diagnosis based on histopathology), and they were compared to 46 cases of age‐ and gender‐matched classical AIH. Overall, HAV cohort (n = 46) had higher prevalence of pruritus, higher bilirubin levels, higher proportion of cholestasis, lower IgG levels, higher seronegativity and lack of disease recurrence, while the classical AIH group had higher proportion/severity of interface hepatitis, fibrosis, necrosis and pseudorosetting (p < 0.05). In comparison to the classical HAV‐AVH group, HAV‐ALH group had higher AST levels, higher presence of autoantibodies, and higher prevalence of severe zone 3 perivenulitis and marked pseudorosetting on histology (p < 0.05). Also, HAV‐ALH group, in comparison to the AIH group, had more pruritus (OR 7.29, p < 0.004) and more seronegativity (41% vs. 13%, p < 0.031), while duration of illness (p < 0.003), IgG (p < 0.001) levels and liver stiffness measurement (p < 0.006) were significantly higher in AIH group (versus the HAV‐ALH and HAV‐AVH groups). Histologically, in comparison to AIH, HAV‐ALH group had significantly less interface hepatitis (OR 0.03, p < 0.001) and fibrosis (OR 0.08, p < 0.001) and significantly more cholestasis (OR 4.5, p < 0.021). HAV infection can act as a potential trigger for immune‐mediated hepatic damage, akin to drug‐induced autoimmune‐like hepatitis. Larger multicentric studies are needed to further explore this aspect.
Diabetic gastroenteropathy: Associations between gastrointestinal symptoms, motility, and extraintestinal autonomic measures
Authors: Kornum Ditte S. , Brock Christina , Okdahl Tina , Bertoli Davide , Kufaishi Huda , Wegeberg Anne‐Marie , Høyer Katrine L. , Mark Esben B. , Brock Birgitte , Hansen Christian S. , Knop Filip K. , Drewes Asbjørn M. , Krogh Klaus
Published: November 2024

Background

Diabetic gastroenteropathy can cause significant diagnostic challenges. Still, it remains unknown if measures of extraintestinal autonomic function reflect diabetic gastroenteropathy. We aimed to assess the associations between (1) gastrointestinal symptoms and motility measures and (2) gastrointestinal symptoms/motility measures and extraintestinal autonomic markers.

Methods

We included 81 persons with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (65% female, mean age 54) with gastrointestinal symptoms and autonomic neuropathy. The Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) assessed gastrointestinal symptoms. The wireless motility capsule (Smartpill™) assessed panenteric transit times and motility indices. Cardiovascular reflex tests (VAGUS™) and cardiac vagal tone (eMotion Faros) estimated cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, while the SUDOSCAN™ evaluated sudomotor function.

Key Results

Proximal gastrointestinal symptoms were positively associated with the gastric motility index (GCSI: 1.18 (1.04–1.35), p = 0.01; GSRS: 1.15 (1.03–1.29), p = 0.02; median ratio (95% CI)), while only satiety correlated with gastric emptying time (1.24 (1.03–1.49), p = 0.02). Diarrhea was associated with decreased small bowel transit time (0.93 (0.89–0.98), p = 0.005), while constipation were associated with prolonged colonic transit time (1.16 (1.03–1.31), p = 0.02). Gastrointestinal symptoms increased with the degree of abnormal cardiovascular reflex tests (GCSI: 0.67 (0.16–1.19), p = 0.03; GSRS: 0.87 (0.30–1.45), p = 0.01; mean difference (95% CI)) but not with motility measures. Cardiac vagal tone and sudomotor function were not associated with gastrointestinal markers.

Conclusions & Inferences

Gastrointestinal and extraintestinal autonomic measures were not associated. However, proximal gastrointestinal symptoms were associated with the gastric motility index and cardiovascular reflex tests. Hence, the latter may contribute to evaluating whether proximal gastrointestinal symptoms are autonomically derived.
Being of one mind: Does alignment in physiological responses and subjective experiences shape political ideology?
Authors: Arceneaux Kevin , Bakker Bert N. , Schumacher Gijs
Published: November 2024

A prominent theory in political psychology contends that individual differences in negativity bias explain political ideology: people who are more sensitive to negative stimuli find solace and comfort in conservative approaches to politics. Using self‐reported measures of negativity bias, the evidence is relatively consistent. Yet, using physiological indicators of the negativity bias, the results are, across the board, inconsistent with the negativity bias argument. Building on recent neuroscience work, we propose and test two innovations. First, unconscious and conscious processes are not necessarily aligned. Therefore, we propose that there are different – conscious and unconscious – paths that could link ideology with the negativity bias. Second, individuals vary in their ability and motivation to down‐regulate arousal and reflect on their emotions. As such, the ideology‐negativity bias may emerge in some individuals but not in others. In two preregistered laboratory studies (US and the Netherlands), we find limited evidence for these claims. In a subsequent registered report, we replicate some inconsistent patterns that emerged in study 1. We confirm that self‐reported social conservatism and implicit social conservatism (measured with an IAT) are positively correlated. We also establish that negativity bias is unrelated to social conservatism (both explicit and implicit). We conclude that negativity bias is most likely not the answer to why people on the left and right differ.
“Metabolight”: how light spectra shape plant growth, development and metabolism
Authors: Lauria Giulia , Ceccanti Costanza , Lo Piccolo Ermes , El Horri Hafsa , Guidi Lucia , Lawson Tracy , Landi Marco
Published: November 2024

Innovations in light technologies (i.e. Light Emitting Diodes; LED) and cover films with specific optical features (e.g. photo‐selective, light‐extracting) have revolutionized crop production in both protected environments and open fields. The possibility to modulate the light spectra, thereby enriching/depleting cultivated plants with targeted wavebands has attracted increasing interest from both basic and applicative research. Indeed, the light environment not only influences plant biomass production but is also a pivotal factor in shaping plant size, development and metabolism. In the last decade, the strict interdependence between specific wavebands and the accumulation of targeted secondary metabolites has been exploited to improve the quality of horticultural products. Innovation in LED lighting has also marked the improvement of streetlamp illumination, thereby posing new questions about the possible influence of light pollution on urban tree metabolism. In this case, it is urgent and challenging to propose new, less‐impacting solutions by modulating streetlamp spectra in order to preserve the ecosystem services provided by urban trees. The present review critically summarizes the main recent findings related to the morpho‐anatomical, physiological, and biochemical changes induced by light spectra management via different techniques in crops as well as in non‐cultivated species. This review explores the following topics: (1) plant growth in monochromatic environments, (2) the use of greenhouse light supplementation, (3) the application of covering films with different properties, and (4) the drawbacks of streetlamp illumination on urban trees. Additionally, it proposes new perspectives offered by in planta photomodulation.
Perceptions of homelessness: Is there variation across medical careers and specialties?
Authors: Bronstein David , Dobkin Finn , Luo Qian , Batra Sonal
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Medical students, residents and faculty are all capable of holding biases towards stigmatised groups like people experiencing homelessness. This study sought to investigate how the level of training may influence perceptions of homelessness among medical students, residents and faculty. Additionally, we sought to understand how different specialities perceive people experiencing homelessness and whether this changes at various points in a career.

Methods

The Health Professionals' Attitudes Towards the Homeless Inventory (HPATHI) was administered to medical students, residents and faculty at one institution in the United States. Basic demographics as well as length of time spent in practice were collected in addition to HPATHI responses.

Results

A total of 1,141 individuals were invited to complete the survey, including 736 medical students, 214 residents and 191 faculty. Two hundred and ninety individuals participated in the survey and 238 recorded complete responses were analysed for a sample response rate of 238/1141 (20.9%.) Overall perceptions of homelessness across the entire sample were positive and not greatly influenced by the level of training during a medical career. Medical students across classes were largely in agreement and there was a noticeable increase in positive perceptions for students engaged in clinical rotations. However, clinical specialties demonstrated wide variation in perceptions, with the most prominent differences amongst individuals from surgical subspecialties of General Surgery and Obstetrics & Gynaecology.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the largely favourable attitudes physicians, residents and students have towards people experiencing homelessness with implications for future work to support greater exposure to underserved populations during training. Specialty choice appears to play a larger role in the formation of attitudes towards underserved populations rather than the length of time spent in a particular specialty.
Interexaminer agreement of gonioscopy examinations in dogs using the European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists Hereditary Eye Diseases grading scheme
Authors: Holz Niklas , Kowalska Malwina Ewa , Pot Simon Anton , Rampazzo Antonella
Published: November 2024

Objective

Prospective observational study with preregistered study protocol to assess interexaminer agreement using the 2022 European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists Hereditary Eye Disease (ECVO‐HED) gonioscopy grading scheme.

Animals Studied

Sixty client‐owned dogs presented for gonioscopy as part of the required certification process prior to breeding.

Procedure

Two ECVO diplomates with comparable clinical experience performed gonioscopy with a Koeppe gonioscopy lens and slit‐lamp biomicroscope at 10x magnification on all eyes in a randomized fashion.

Results

One hundred and eighteen of 120 eyes (60 dogs) were included. In 110/118 eyes (93%), both examiners provided the same breeding recommendation (yes/no). This translated into an agreement on the final breeding recommendation in 58/60 dogs (97%). Examiners disagreed on pectinate ligament abnormality (PLA) grading in 19/118 eyes and iridocorneal angle width (ICAW) grading in 9/118 eyes. PLA grading disagreement was mostly observed between neighboring grades. Disagreement between PLA and ICAW grading sometimes occurred within the same eye accounting for an observed disagreement in iridocorneal angle abnormality (ICAA) grading in 19/118 eyes in total. Cohen's kappa was Κ = 0.62 (95% TI 0.34–0.89), whereas maximum kappa was maxΚ = 0.82 (95% TI 0.59–1). Mixed model analysis suggested no significant examiner influence on breeding recommendations (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.02–1.12, p = .09).

Conclusions

Although examiners disagreed on ICAA grading in 19/118 eyes, this resulted in a different breeding recommendation (yes/no) in eight eyes and in two dogs only. Therefore, the use of the 2022 ECVO‐HED gonioscopy grading scheme seems to result in examiners providing the same breeding recommendations in most cases.
A Novel Connectivity Index for Microstructures Imperfection Detection and Rectification in a Multiscale Structure Design
Authors: Rastegarzadeh Sina , Huang Jida
Published: November 2024

Inspired by natural designs, microstructures exhibit remarkable properties, which drive interest in creating metamaterials with extraordinary traits. However, imperfections within microstructures and poor connectivity at the microscale level can significantly impact their performance and reliability. Achieving proper connectivity between microstructural elements and detecting structural imperfections within the microstructures pose challenges in multiscale design optimization. While using a connectivity index (CI) to quantify the topological connectivity between microstructures has been explored previously, prior approaches have limitations in identifying microstructures with complex curved geometries between adjacent units. To alleviate this issue, we present a novel CI in this study. The proposed CI goes beyond conventional methods by focusing on surface interfaces and internal microstructural irregularities. Through numerical investigations, we successfully connected distinct types of microstructures well by integrating the introduced CI with the functional gradation scheme. We also demonstrate that the presented CI can serve as a metric to identify sharp changes or imperfections within microstructures. We evaluate the performance of the introduced index against other connectivity indices using diverse microstructural examples. Experimental findings provide valuable insights into the fundamental aspects of imperfection detection and rectification in microstructures within the multiscale design, paving the way for developing more robust and reliable materials in engineering applications.
Modeling Elastic Cable-Surface Friction for Soft Robots
Authors: Matte Christopher-Denny , Kwok Tsz Ho
Published: November 2024

Due to inherent compliance and non-linear behavior, modelling soft robots is highly complex. While the elasticity of their materials provides the robots with adaptability and resilience, it also causes undesirable effects. Cable-driven soft robots are particularly affected by frictional forces, which can significantly alter their deformed shape. Unfortunately, most existing cable-friction models have been developed for rigid surfaces and do not account for the interactions between elastic cables and surfaces. As a result, research on cable-driven soft robots often neglects friction due to the difficulty of acquiring data and implementing the mathematical models. This paper introduces a novel friction model that considers the asperity behavior of both the cable and the friction surface. We propose a new methodology that accurately replicates friction interaction in soft robots, which requires as few as nine data points. The methodology is assessed on four distinct material interactions, comprising two cables with different diameters and materials, and two 3D-printed surfaces made from PLA and TPU. By accurately estimating the nonuniform distribution of the joint deformation caused by friction, the new friction formulation achieves a 2.8% error in predicting a soft gripper's tip locations, while the current state-of-the-art model shows a 16.1% error. We also demonstrate that, with an accurate friction model, it is possible to optimize the cable routing points to achieve the desired grasping strategy for a soft gripper.