bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of institutional investors in reviving loss-making firms: evidence from India
Authors: Veeravel V. , Panda Pradiptarathi , Balakrishnan A.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The present study aims to verify whether there is a positive (negative) role being played by the institutional investors on the loss-making companies' performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ panel data regression and two-step system generalised method of moments (SYS-GMM) to test the above objective.

Findings

The empirical results clearly show that no positive relation is found between institutional investors and loss-making companies' performance.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study might have significant implications for firms to improve the firms' operational performance [return on assets (ROA)]. Also, the firm's financial performance [return on equity (ROE)] could be improved by increasing profitability which will reflect in the share prices of the firms whereby the performance can build the investors' confidence over the firm. Market performance (Tobin's Q) could be increased by providing more attractive offers and discounts to customers to capture the business opportunities available in the market.

Practical implications

The overall findings might have for reaching implications in the manufacturing sector with regard to allowing (disallowing) institutional investors.

Social implications

The results of the study may help both companies and institutional investors.

Originality/value

This is the maiden attempt to study whether loss-making companies could be positively (negatively) impacted by the arrival of sophisticated institutional investors [foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and domestic institutional investors (DIIs)]. Further, this study is largely different from previous studies in terms of using new variables which are related to firm characteristics and valuation multiples. Further, seeing if the institutional investors tend to enhance the firm performance is curious.
The impact of lean production on sustainable organizational performance: the moderating effect of industry 4.0 technologies adoption
Authors: Ooi Lyn Liq , Teh Sin Yin , Cheang Peck Yeng Sharon
Published: June 2023

Purpose

A paradigm shift of industry revolution 4.0 is made possible by technological advances that constitute a reversal of conventional lean production (LP) processes. In addition, there is increasing pressure on the manufacturing industry to manage operations responsibly towards the environmental and social impact, on top of the economic. These have motivated the manufacturing industry to identify approaches to implementing LP to achieve sustainable organizational performance. Hence, this study aims to examine the moderating role of industry 4.0 technologies adoption in the relationship between LP and sustainable organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposed a research framework on the relationship between LP and sustainable organizational performance supported by LP theory and triple bottom line theory, with industry 4.0 technologies adoption as a moderator. A quantitative survey method was used in this study for data collection. The respondents in this study were middle or top management in manufacturing companies, including directors, managers, supervisors and coordinators. To investigate the demographic variables of respondents, descriptive statistics were generated by using IBM Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences. For measurement and structural model evaluations, partial least square structural equation modelling was used.

Findings

Based on the proposed research framework in this study, supplier feedback, just-in-time delivery, supplier development, customer involvement, pull system, continuous flow, set-up time reduction (STR), statistical process control, total productive maintenance (TPM) and employee involvement are the dimensions for LP. This study revealed that industry 4.0 technologies adoption positively moderated the relationships of five LP dimensions towards a sustainable organizational performance, namely, supplier feedback, supplier development, continuous flow, STR and TPM.

Originality/value

This study provided insights that would enable practitioners to better strategize the co-existence of LP and industry 4.0 technologies adoption in mutually supporting sustainable organizational performance (environmental, social and economic).
How socially responsible human resource management fosters work engagement: the role of perceived organizational support and affective organizational commitment
Authors: Pimenta Sara , Duarte Ana Patrícia , Simões Eduardo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

In recent years, efforts to reinforce the links between corporate social responsibility and human resource management have highlighted employees’ role as crucial organizational stakeholders. This study aims to investigate whether workers’ perception of socially responsible human resource management (SR-HRM) based on employee-focused practices is related to work engagement (WE). This research also explored whether perceived organizational support (POS) and affective commitment (AC) can contribute to explaining this relationship. Social exchange theory and job demands-resources model were used to theoretically frame the research.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a sample of 222 employees working in diverse organizations, using individual online surveys. Several analyses were conducted to assure data robustness to common method bias.

Findings

The results confirm that SR-HRM fosters WE and that this effect is subject to sequential mediation by POS and AC. Accordingly, SR-HRM practices contribute to higher level of POS, which then foster stronger affective bonds with employers and, in turn, higher levels of vigor, absorption and dedication among workers.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the expansion of the SR-HRM literature by providing a deeper understanding of how this management strategy affects employees’ job-related attitudes, particularly WE a much-overlooked variable in this realm.
Interfacial behavior and mechanism of brazed diamond with CeO2-added Ni-Cr filler alloy: a combined first-principles and experimental study
Authors: Zhang Ao , Zhang Jian , Zhang Mingjun , Liu Junyi , Peng Ping
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of O atom single doping, Ce and O atoms co-doping on the interfacial microscopic behavior of brazed Ni-Cr/diamond.

Design/methodology/approach

Using first-principles calculations, the embedding energy, work of separation, interfacial energy and electronic structures of Ni-Cr-O/diamond and Ni-Cr-O-Ce/diamond interface models were calculated. Then, the effect of Ce and O co-doping was experimentally verified through brazed diamond with CeO2-added Ni-Cr filler alloy.

Findings

The results show that O single-doping reduces the interfacial bonding strength between Ni-Cr filler alloy and diamond but enhances its interfacial stability to some extent. However, the Ce and O co-doping simultaneously enhances the interfacial bonding strength and stability between Ni-Cr filler alloy and diamond. The in-situ formed Ce-O oxide at interface impedes the direct contact between diamond and Ni-Cr filler alloy, which weakens the catalytic effect of Ni element on diamond graphitization. It is experimentally found that the fine rod-shaped Cr3C2 and Cr7C3 carbides are generated on diamond surface brazed with CeO2-added Ni-Cr filler alloy. After grinding, the brazed diamond grits, brazed with CeO2-added Ni-Cr filler alloy, present few fracture and the percentage of intact diamond reaches 67.8%. Compared to pure Ni-Cr filler alloy, the brazed diamond with CeO2-added Ni-Cr filler alloy exhibit the better wear resistance and the slighter thermal damage.

Originality/value

Using first-principles calculations, the effect of Ce and O atoms co-doping on the brazed diamond with Ni-Cr filler alloy is investigated, and the calculation results are verified experimentally. Through the first-principles calculations, the interface behavior and reaction mechanism between diamond and filler alloy can be well disclosed, and the composition of filler alloy can be optimized, which will be beneficial for synergistically realizing the enhanced interface bonding and reduced thermal damage of brazed diamond.
Research progress and application of ultrasonic‐ and microwave‐assisted food processing technology
Authors: Li Mengge , Zhou Cunshan , Wang Bo , Zeng Shiyu , Mu Rongyi , Li Guohua , Li Bingzheng , Lv Weiqiao
Published: June 2023

Microwaves are electromagnetic waves of specific frequencies (300 MHz–3000 GHz), whereas ultrasonic is mechanical waves of specific frequencies. Microwave and ultrasonic technology as a new processing method has been widely used in food processing fields. Combined ultrasonic and microwave technology is exploited by researchers as an improvement technique and has been successfully applied in food processing such as thawing, drying, frying, extraction, and sterilization. This paper overviews the principle and characteristics of ultrasonic‐ and microwave‐assisted food processing techniques, particularly their combinations, design of equipment, and their applications in the processing of agricultural products such as thawing, drying, frying, extraction, and sterilization. The combination of ultrasonic and microwave is applied in food processing, where microwave enhances the heating rate, and ultrasonic improves the efficiency of heat and mass transfer. The synergy of the heating effect of microwave and the cavitation effect of ultrasonic improves processing efficiency and damages the cell structure of the material. The degradation of nutrient composition and energy consumption due to the short processing time of combined ultrasonic and microwave technology is decreased. Ultrasonic technology, as an auxiliary means of efficient microwave heating, is pollution‐free, highly efficient, and has a wide range of applications in food processing.
Termites as human foods—A comprehensive review
Authors: Siddiqui Shahida Anusha , Fernando Ito , Saraswati Yuniar Rizky , Rahayu Teguh , Harahap Iskandar Azmy , Yao Qifa , Nagdalian Andrey , Blinov Andrey , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: June 2023

Global food production is anticipated to rise along with the growth of the global population. As a result, creative solutions must be devised to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious, affordable, and safe food. Consequently, including insects in diets has the potential to improve global food and nutrition security. This paper aims to share recent findings by covering edible termites as the main aspect, from their consumption record until consumer acceptance. A total of 53 termite species are reported as edible ones and distributed in 6 biogeographic realms. Generally, termites have a nutrient composition that is suitable for human consumption, and cooked termites are a better dietary choice than their raw counterparts. Besides, increasing customer interest in eating termite‐based food can be achieved by making it more palatable and tastier through various cooking processes, that is, boiling, frying, grilling, roasting, smoking, and sun‐drying. Moreover, edible termites can also be used as a new source of medication by exhibiting antimicrobial activity. Regarding their advantages, it is strongly encouraged to implement a seminatural rearing system to sustain the supply of edible termites. Overall, this paper makes it evident that termites are an important natural resource for food or medicine. Hence, the long‐term objective is to stimulate scientific inquiry into the potential of edible insects as an answer to the problem of global food security.
Variation in Bombyx mori immune response against fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana with variability in cell wall β‐1,3‐glucan
Authors: Wang Yulong , Liu Zhen , Yin Xuebing , Liu Shihong , Wang Kai , Wan Rongjie , Chen Haoran , Li Xinyang , Huang Bo
Published: June 2023

Entomopathogenic fungi are protected by a cell wall with dynamic structure for adapting to various environmental conditions. β‐1,3‐Glucan recognition proteins activate the innate immune system of insects by recognizing surface molecules of fungi. However, the associations between pathogenicity and the different components of entomopathogenic fungal cell walls remain unclear. Three Beauveria bassiana strains were selected that have significantly differing virulence against Bombyx mori. The molecular mechanisms underlying the immune response in B. mori were investigated using RNA sequencing, which revealed differences in the immune response to different B. bassiana strains at 12 h post‐infection. Immunofluorescence assays revealed that β‐1,3‐glucan content had an opposite trend to that of fungal virulence. β‐1,3‐Glucan injection upregulated BmβGRP4 expression and significantly reduced the virulence of the high‐virulence strain but not that of the medium‐virulence or low‐virulence strains. BmβGRP4 silencing in B. mori with RNA interference resulted in the opposite virulence pattern, indicating that the virulence of B. bassiana was affected by the cell walls’ content of β‐1,3‐glucan, which could be recognized by BmβGRP4. Furthermore, interference with the gene CnA (calcineurin catalytic A subunit) involved in β‐1,3‐glucan synthesis eliminated differences in virulence between B. bassiana strains. These results indicate that strains of a single species of pathogenic fungi that have differing cell wall components are recognized differently by the innate immune system of B. mori.
Extrapleural infusion of levobupivacaine versus levobupivacaine‐sufentanil‐adrenaline after video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS): A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Larsson Mark , Sartipy Ulrik , Franco‐Cereceda Anders , Spigset Olav , Loevenich Maja , Öwall Anders , Jakobsson Jan
Published: June 2023

Background

Peripheral blocks are increasingly used for analgesia after video‐assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). We hypothesised that addition of sufentanil and adrenaline to levobupivacaine would improve the analgesic effect of a continuous extrapleural block.

Methods

We randomised 60 patients undergoing VATS to a 5‐mL h−1 extrapleural infusion of levobupivacaine at 2.7 mg mL−1 (LB group) or levobupivacaine at 1.25 mg mL−1, sufentanil at 0.5 μg mL−1, and adrenaline at 2 μg mL−1 (LBSA group). The primary outcome was the cumulative morphine dose administered as patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA‐morphine) at 48 and 72 h. The secondary outcomes were pain according to numerical rating scale (NRS) at rest and after two deep breaths twice daily, peak expiratory flow (PEF) daily, quality of recovery (QoR)‐15 score at 1 day and 3 weeks postoperatively, serum levobupivacaine concentrations at 1 h after the start and at the end of the intervention, and adverse events.

Results

At 48 h, the median cumulative PCA‐morphine dose for the LB group was 6 mg (IQR, 2–10 mg) and for the LBSA group 7 mg (IQR, 3–13.5 mg; p = .378). At 72 h, morphine doses were 10 mg (IQR, 3–22 mg) and 12.5 mg (IQR, 4–21 mg; p = .738), respectively. Median NRS score at rest and after two deep breaths was 3 or lower at all time points for both treatment groups. PEF did not differ between groups. Three weeks postoperatively, only the LB group returned to baseline QoR‐15 score. The LB group had higher, but well below toxic, levobupivacaine concentrations at 48 and 72 h. The incidence of nausea, dizziness, pruritus and headache was equally low overall.

Conclusion

For a continuous extrapleural block, and compared to plain levobupivacaine at 13.5 mg h−1, levobupivacaine at 6.25 mg h−1 with addition of sufentanil and adrenaline did not decrease postoperative morphine consumption. The levobupivacaine serum concentrations after 48 and 72 h of infusion were well below toxic levels, therefore our findings support the use of the maximally recommended dose of levobupivacaine for a 2‐ to 3‐day continuous extrapleural block.
Cross‐sectional analysis of healthy individuals across decades: Aging signatures across multiple physiological compartments
Authors: Moaddel Ruin , Ubaida‐Mohien Ceereena , Tanaka Toshiko , Tian Qu , Candia Julián , Moore Ann Zenobia , Lovett Jacqueline , Fantoni Giovanna , Shehadeh Nader , Turek Lisa , Collingham Victoria , Kaileh Mary , Chia Chee W. , Sen Ranjan , Egan Josephine M. , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: June 2023

The study of age‐related biomarkers from different biofluids and tissues within the same individual might provide a more comprehensive understanding of age‐related changes within and between compartments as these changes are likely highly interconnected. Understanding age‐related differences by compartments may shed light on the mechanism of their reciprocal interactions, which may contribute to the phenotypic manifestations of aging. To study such possible interactions, we carried out a targeted metabolomic analysis of plasma, skeletal muscle, and urine collected from healthy participants, age 22–92 years, and identified 92, 34, and 35 age‐associated metabolites, respectively. The metabolic pathways that were identified across compartments included inflammation and cellular senescence, microbial metabolism, mitochondrial health, sphingolipid metabolism, lysosomal membrane permeabilization, vascular aging, and kidney function.
How impact investing firms use reference frameworks to manage their impact performance: An industry‐level study
Authors: Islam Syrus M. , Habib Ahsan
Published: June 2023

Using meaning‐oriented content analysis, we show how impact investing firms use various reference frameworks (e.g., International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards, Impact Management Project framework, UN Sustainable Development Goals) to manage their impact performance throughout the investment lifecycle. Our study provides an industry‐level picture of the various roles that different reference frameworks play to help impact investors attain their impact goals. We also discuss the potential industry effects on management accounting practice, that is, how reference frameworks used in performance management in the impact investing industry differ from those used in some other industries.
The effects of infant daycare on later‐in‐life employment outcomes
Authors: Zimmer David M.
Published: June 2023

This paper first develops a theoretical model of the returns to daycare, which attempts to show that families enroll their children into daycare based on its expected benefits and costs. The paper then moves to an empirical study that seeks to determine whether enrolling an infant in daycare affects his or her later‐in‐life employment and poverty status. To identify the causal effect of interest, the econometric approach employs a recently developed panel estimator that accommodates the dynamic nature of later‐in‐life employment and income, while also controlling for unobserved heterogeneity. The main finding is that, although infant daycare enrollment appears to correlate with positive later‐in‐life outcomes, addressing potential bias in that link renders the estimated effects highly imprecise, such that one cannot confidently conclude whether daycare helps or hinders later‐in‐life outcomes.
Impact of uncertainties in biometric parameters on intraocular lens power formula predicted refraction using a Monte‐Carlo simulation
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Hoffmann Peter , Cayless Alan , Bolz Matthias , Wendelstein Jascha , Szentmáry Nóra
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the uncertainty in the formula predicted refractive outcome REFU after cataract surgery resulting from measurement uncertainties in modern optical biometers using literature data for within‐subject standard deviation Sw.

Methods

This Monte–Carlo simulation study used a large dataset containing 16 667 preoperative IOLMaster 700 biometric measurements. Based on literature Sw values, REFU was derived for both the Haigis and Castrop formulae using error propagation strategies. Using the Hoya Vivinex lens (IOL) as an example, REFU was calculated both with (WLT) and without (WoLT) consideration of IOL power labelling tolerances.

Results

WoLT the median REFU was 0.10/0.12 dpt for the Haigis/Castrop formula, and WLT it was 0.13/0.15 dpt. WoLT REFU increased systematically for short eyes (or high power IOLs), and WLT this effect was even more pronounced because of increased labelling tolerances. WoLT the uncertainty in the measurement of the corneal front surface radius showed the largest contribution to REFU, especially in long eyes (and low power IOLs). WLT the IOL power uncertainty dominated in short eyes (or high power IOLs) and the uncertainty of the corneal front surface in long eyes (or low power IOLs).

Conclusions

Compared with published data on the formula prediction error of refractive outcome after cataract surgery, the uncertainty of biometric measures seems to contribute with ⅓ to ½ to the entire standard deviation. REFU systematically increases with IOL power and decreases with axial length.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis: Association between liver fibrosis and subclinical atherosclerosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Jamalinia Mohamad , Zare Fatemeh , Lankarani Kamran B.
Published: June 2023

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a liver disorder commonly associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of CVD, has been linked to liver fibrosis. However, the evidence regarding this association is conflicting.

Aim

To evaluate the link between liver fibrosis and subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with NAFLD

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of four databases from 1950 to February 2023 to identify eligible studies investigating the association between liver fibrosis and subclinical atherosclerosis among patients with NAFLD, utilising the PICOS framework. Two independent reviewers screened the studies; quality was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Meta‐analysis was performed using the DerSimonian‐Liard random‐effects model, and subgroup analysis was conducted based on the severity of liver fibrosis, type of subclinical atherosclerosis diagnosis and geographic region.

Results

The meta‐analysis included 12 studies with a total of 4725 patients. Overall pooled odds ratio (OR) for subclinical atherosclerosis was 2.18 (95% CI: 1.62–2.93), indicating a significant association with liver fibrosis in NAFLD. Subgroup analysis revealed higher ORs in patients with more severe fibrosis: 1.64 (95% CI: 1.22–2.20) in ≥F1, 2.22 (95% CI: 1.37–3.62) in ≥F2, and 3.42 (95% CI: 1.81–6.46) in ≥F3. However, there was no significant difference between the West versus East and various measurements of subclinical atherosclerosis.

Conclusions

Any degree of fibrosis is significantly associated with subclinical atherosclerosis, with fibrosis severity amplifying the association.
Effect of different PD‐1 inhibitor combination therapies for unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Lei Zhengqing , Ma Weihu , Si Anfeng , Zhang Yuhua , Yang Facai , Yu Qiushi , Tang Haolan , Xiao Qianru , Zhou Jiahua , Wang Kui , Tang Yufu , Han Tao , Yin Guowen , Chen Jinhong , Liu Xiufeng , Zhao Hua , Yu Decai , Luo Tao , Wang Qing , Yan Maolin , Mao Xianhai , Li Jing , Wang Kai , Li Jingdong , Zeng Yongyi , Ding Dequan , Chen Tingsong , Wu Xiaofeng , Xia Yongxiang , Wang Kang , Guo Weixing , Zhu Guangyu , Gao Shan , Hüser Norbert , Lau Wan Y. , Song Tianqiang , Cheng Shuqun , Shen Feng , Cheng Zhangjun
Published: June 2023

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) combination therapy offers a new option for treatment of unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (uICC).

Aim

To compare the effect of different anti‐PD‐1 combination therapies as the first‐line treatments for uICC.

Methods

This study included 318 patients who received chemotherapy alone (Chemo), anti‐PD‐1 plus chemotherapy (ICI‐chemo), anti‐PD‐1 plus targeted therapy (ICI‐target) or anti‐PD‐1 plus targeted therapy and chemotherapy (ICI‐target‐chemo) as first line for uICC from 22 centres in China. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and safety.

Results

Patients with ICI‐chemo (median PFS [mPFS], 6.3 months; HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.42–0.88; p = 0.008; median OS [mOS], 10.7 months; HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39–0.94; p = 0.026), ICI‐target (7.2 months; HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.36–0.80; p = 0.002; 15.8 months; HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.35–0.84; p = 0.006) or ICI‐target‐chemo (6.9 months; HR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.47–0.90; p = 0.009; 14.4 months; HR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.31–0.70; p < 0.001) achieved better clinical outcomes than those with Chemo (3.8 months; 9.3 months). ICI‐target was not inferior to ICI‐chemo in survival outcomes (HR for PFS: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.55–1.42; p = 0.614; HR for OS: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.51–1.55; p = 0.680). ICI‐target‐chemo yielded similar prognoses as ICI‐chemo (HR for PFS: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.70–1.62; p = 0.764; HR for OS: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.45–1.31; p = 0.328) and ICI‐target (HR for PFS: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.77–1.88; p = 0.413; HR for OS: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.51–1.47; p = 0.583) but resulted in more adverse events (p < 0.001; p = 0.010). Multivariable and propensity score analyses supported these findings.

Conclusions

Among patients with uICC, ICI‐chemo or ICI‐target provided more survival benefits than Chemo while achieving comparable prognoses and fewer adverse events than ICI‐target‐chemo.
Adverse reactions following MPox (monkeypox) vaccination: An overview from the Dutch and global adverse event reporting systems
Authors: van der Boom Meiwen , van Hunsel Florence
Published: June 2023

Aims

The spreading of MPox (monkeypox) virus led to a vaccination campaign in the Netherlands for individuals at high risk of infection. This overview elucidates the characteristics of the reported adverse events following immunization (AEFI) following active immunization against monkeypox and thereby provides insight on the safety profile in daily practice.

Methods

Data were collected from the spontaneous reporting system of the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb. Furthermore, the global database of the World Health Organization was consulted on globally reported AEFI following smallpox or monkeypox immunization in 2022.

Results

Until 15 November 2022, 148 unique individual case safety reports (ICSRs) regarding monkeypox vaccination were received at Lareb. Two ICSRs reported a serious outcome (1.4%). A total of 2205 ICSRs were received in the global database in 2022, of which 131 reports (5.9%) concerned a serious reaction. Reported AEFI in both databases mainly included injection site reactions and general systemic reactions commonly observed after vaccination.

Conclusion

The pattern of reported AEFI for monkeypox vaccines both in the Dutch and global ICSR database is generally in accordance with the manufacturer's product information and consists largely of injection site reactions and nonserious AEFI related to systemic reactogenicity.
Cardiac Self‐Disclosure: Clinical and Theoretical Reflections
Authors: Karbelnig Alan Michael
Published: June 2023

This article explores four primary themes while describing the author's process of advising patients of an imminent open‐heart surgery: the lingering controversies surrounding self‐disclosure, the artistry involved in sharing the information, the management of specific patient reactions, and how the dance between static and dynamic theory application in psychoanalytic psychotherapy unfolds. The author tailored his description of the medical crisis to the distinctiveness of each psychotherapeutic dyad—using a basically scripted but short description of the situation—and he improvised subsequent clinical discussions accordingly. Several patients reacted in surprising ways. Three clinical examples vividly illustrate the above‐noted themes, particularly the uniqueness of each dyad, the need for improvisation, and the application of a cross‐theoretical model (Karbelnig, 2022).
Australian surgical revision rate for benign prostatic obstruction
Authors: Jain Anika , Nassour Anthony‐Joe , Khannani Hadia , Wines Michael P. , Chalasani Venu , Katelaris Phillip , Bergersen Philip , Symons James L. , Baskaranathan Sris , Woo Henry
Published: June 2023

Objective

To evaluate the rate of revision surgery following commonly performed procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is hyperplasia of both glandular and stromal components of prostate especially in periurethral transitional gland, using real‐world data from Medicare Australia.

Methods

Prospection is a Healthcare Data Analytics firm that has negotiated access with the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) to provide longitudinal data on the use of specific procedural item codes. We identified patients over the age of 40 years who had undergone primary transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) or photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) between 2005 and 2010 using MBS item numbers 37203, 37207 and 36854, respectively. Using longitudinal MBS data, primary outcomes included need for revision surgery at 5‐years follow‐up (2015). The release of these data was approved by Medicare Australia upon application. Data analysis was conducted using chi‐squared tests and statistical significance was defined at P < 0.05.

Results

The distribution of primary surgical procedures performed between 2005 and 2010 was: TURP 5579 (90%), TUIP 345 (6%) and PVP 258 (4%). TURP was also the most prevalent procedure for treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with BPH requiring revision surgery (75%). At 5‐year follow‐up the rate of revision surgery for TURP (573/5579), TUIP (47/345) and PVP (30/258) was 10.3%, 13.6% and 11.6%, respectively. The difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.12). There was no significant change (P = 0.59) observed over the years in number of men requiring revision surgery.

Conclusion

This study indicates that TURP and PVP have a similar durability after 5 years of follow‐up.
Post‐Jurassic brittle deformation of Lusitanian Basin in the context of W Iberia evolution
Authors: Kumaira Sissa , Guadagnin Felipe , Magalhães Antonio J. C. , Pimentel Nuno L. A. , Chemale Farid
Published: June 2023

A detailed structural analysis of the fracture network exposed in the Jurassic strata is used to reconstruct the Lusitanian Basin's brittle tectonic history related to the Meso‐Cenozoic paleostress trajectories of the Iberian plate. Structural analysis is made by high‐resolution virtual outcrop models and orthophoto mosaics, along with information obtained in the field. The paleostress regime is determined based on the fault‐slip inversion method. Structural features are predominantly NNE‐SSW, NE‐SW and NW‐SE‐trending extensional fractures, including joints, veins, normal faults, and ~E‐W‐oriented strike‐slip faults. These structures remained active in the early basin evolution and were repeatedly reactivated by shearing and contraction. The chronological succession and paleostress reconstruction revealed three tectonic regimes (i) NE‐oriented extension, (ii) NE‐oriented strike‐slip and (iii) NW‐shortening. The first stress regime was driven by the North Atlantic rift propagation in the Iberia's west and northwest margins in the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous. The younger stress states involve reactivation and inversion of pre‐existing fractures by Africa–Europe convergence since the Late Cretaceous. The findings are consistent with the regional stress field which the Iberian plate has experienced since the Meso‐Cenozoic.
Deletion of glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII), but not GCPIII, provided long‐term benefits in mice with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ji Tongjie , Pang Ying , Cheng Meng , Wang Rui , Chen Xu , Zhang Chunyu , Liu Min , Zhang Jing , Zhong Chunlong
Published: June 2023

Main Problem

N‐acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) has neuroprotective effects in traumatic brain injury (TBI) by activating metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 (mGluR3) and reducing glutamate release. Glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) is the primary enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of NAAG. It remains unclear whether glutamate carboxypeptidase III (GCPIII), a homolog of GCPII, can partially compensate for GCPII's function.

Methods

GCPII−/−, GCPIII−/−, and GCPII/III−/− mice were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Mice brain injury model was established through moderate controlled cortical impact (CCI). The relationship between GCPII and GCPIII was explored by analyzing injury response signals in the hippocampus and cortex of mice with different genotypes at the acute (1 day) and subacute (7 day) phase after TBI.

Results

In this study, we found that deletion of GCPII reduced glutamate production, excitotoxicity, and neuronal damage and improved cognitive function, but GCPIII deletion had no significant neuroprotective effect. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the neuroprotective effect between the combination of GCPII and GCPIII deletion and GCPII deletion alone.

Conclusion

These results suggest that GCPII inhibition may be a therapeutic option for TBI, and that GCPIII may not act as a complementary enzyme to GCPII in this context.
DNA methyltransferase inhibitor exposure–response: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Kagan Amanda B. , Garrison Dominique A. , Anders Nicole M. , Webster Jonathan A. , Baker Sharyn D. , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Rudek Michelle A.
Published: June 2023

Although DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis), such as azacitidine and decitabine, are used extensively in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia, there remain unanswered questions about DNMTi's mechanism of action and predictors of clinical response. Because patients often remain on single‐agent DNMTis or DNMTi‐containing regimens for several months before knowing whether clinical benefit can be achieved, the development and clinical validation of response‐predictive biomarkers represents an important unmet need in oncology. In this review, we will summarize the clinical studies that led to the approval of azacitidine and decitabine, as well as the real‐world experience with these drugs. We will then focus on biomarker development for DNMTis—specifically, efforts at determining exposure–response relationships and challenges that remain impacting the broader clinical translation of these methods. We will highlight recent progress in liquid‐chromatography tandem mass spectrometry technology that has allowed for the simultaneous measurement of decitabine genomic incorporation and global DNA methylation, which has significant potential as a mechanism‐of‐action based biomarker in patients on DNMTis. Last, we will cover important research questions that need to be addressed in order to optimize this potential biomarker for clinical use.
A phase I randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study assessing the safety and pharmacokinetics of RIPK1 inhibitor GFH312 in healthy subjects
Authors: Lickliter Jason , Wang Shuang , Zhang Wenxin , Zhu Huaqiang , Wang Jing , Zhao Congqiao , Shen Haige , Wang Yu
Published: June 2023

Receptor‐interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) mediates necroptosis and inflammation in various pathophysiologies, emerging as a pharmacological target for neurodegenerative and inflammatory indications. This phase I, first‐in‐human, placebo‐controlled study evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics (PKs), and pharmacodynamics (PDs) of GFH312, an RIPK1 inhibitor, in healthy adults. Subjects received GFH312 as a single ascending dose up to 500 mg (part I) or once‐daily repeated doses up to 200 mg for 14 days (part II). PKs were assessed using plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); PDs were assessed by phospho‐RIPK1 levels. Seventy‐six subjects were enrolled between April 2021 and June 2022: 38 (part I) and 19 (part II) received GFH312; 14 and five received placebo, respectively. At least one treatment‐emergent adverse event (TEAE) occurred in 42.1% (part I) and 63.2% (part II) of subjects receiving GFH312, compared with 42.9% and 40.0% of subjects receiving placebo, respectively. The most common TEAE was headache (21.1%). Two treatment‐related TEAEs were reported in part I and four in part II. No serious TEAEs were reported. Systemic absorption was rapid; exposure (area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero to the last measurable concentration and maximum plasma concentration) increased with dose level. The GFH312 CSF concentration post 100 mg single dose was approximately fourfold higher than the half maximal inhibitory concentration of human monocyte‐derived macrophages necroptosis with expected central nervous system penetration. Subjects receiving GFH312 had decreased phospho‐RIPK1 levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells postdose. In conclusion, GFH312 was well‐tolerated and demonstrated RIPK1 inhibition in healthy subjects. Ongoing studies will inform the use of GFH312 in potential indications.
Heterogenous impacts of trade liberalization on individual wages: Evidence from Thailand
Authors: Sudsawasd Sasatra , Hayakawa Kazunobu
Published: June 2023

This study empirically examines how trade liberalization changes individuals' wages, with evidence from Thailand. We primarily focus on the effect of Thailand's tariff reduction under the ASEAN free trade regime. We use individual‐level employment data for 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016. We find that the reduction in AFTA tariffs in Thailand decreases the relative wages of the more educated and skilled workers. Thus, trade liberalization contributes to narrowing income inequality in terms of education and skills. Contrastingly, we do not find heterogeneous effects according to age, sex, marital status, location, or company size. Moreover, the results do not differ significantly between industries with or without international competitiveness.
Coexistence of insect species in a phloem feeding guild: Deterministic and stochastic processes
Authors: Pimentel Carla S. , Firmino Paulo N. , Almeida Raquel P. , Lombardero Maria J. , Ayres Matthew P. , Calvão Teresa
Published: June 2023

1. Niche theory, neutral theory, and more recently the unifying theory of biodiversity offer alternative views of the structure (or not) of ecological communities. The relative importance of these theories has not been so thoroughly used to explain community assembly processes in phytophagous insects.

2. We studied the mechanisms of community assembly in pine trees phloem feeders, exploring the relative contributions of deterministic and stochastic processes.

3. Temporal and spatial partitioning of wood borers and bark beetles belonging to the pine phloem feeding gild, was assessed through flight traps and pine bolts extracted from felled live Pinus pinaster trees presenting evidence of decline/wilting.

4. We found that deterministic factors explained most cases of coexistence between species, with partitioning in space and time reducing asymmetric competition for resources and intraguild predation, mediated by differences in size. However, in the case of very closely related species with minimum differences in size—in this case three species of Arhopalus—they occupied the same niche in space and time, suggesting that stochastic processes are more likely to maintain co‐occurrence.

5. The present work indicates that both niche and stochastic processes contribute to the assembly of the phloem feeding community. This could be one more example of accordance with the unifying theory of biodiversity.
Active search signatures in a free‐viewing task exploiting concurrent EEG and eye movements recordings
Authors: Care Damián , da Fonseca María , Ison Matias J. , Kamienkowski Juan E.
Published: June 2023

Tasks we often perform in our everyday lives, such as reading or looking for a friend in the crowd, are seemingly straightforward but they actually require the orchestrated activity of several cognitive processes. Free‐viewing visual search requires a plan to move our gaze on the different items, identifying them, and deciding on whether to continue with the search. Little is known about the electrophysiological signatures of these processes in free‐viewing because there are technical challenges associated with eye movement artefacts. Here, we aimed to study how category information, as well as ecologically relevant variables such as the task performed, influence brain activity in a free‐viewing paradigm. Participants were asked to observe/search from an array of faces and objects embedded in random noise. We concurrently recorded electroencephalogram and eye movements and applied a deconvolution analysis approach to estimate the contribution of the different elements embedded in the task. Consistent with classical fixed‐gaze experiments and a handful of free‐viewing studies, we found a robust categorical effect around 150 ms in occipital and occipitotemporal electrodes. We also report a task effect, more negative in posterior central electrodes in visual search compared with exploration, starting at around 80 ms. We also found significant effects of trial progression and an interaction with the task effect. Overall, these results generalise the characterisation of early visual face processing to a wider range of experiments and show how a suitable analysis approach allows to discern among multiple neural contributions to the signal, preserving key attributes of real‐world tasks.
Husserl, representationalism, and the theory of phenomenal intentionality
Authors: Liu Chang
Published: June 2023

Representationalism is a philosophical position which reduces all phenomenal conscious states to intentional states. However, starting from the phenomenal consciousness, the phenomenal intentionality theory provides an explanation of all sorts of intentionality. Against Michael Shim's interpretation, I argue that, although Hussserl's phenomenology is certainly considered as an antipode of strong representationalism, Husserl does not stand in opposition the weak representationalists, because Husserl maintains an essential connection between the senses of noemata and the hyletic data. In addition, Husserl's phenomenology is also consistent with the phenomenal theory of intentionality. According to him, statically and genetically, all non‐phenomenal intentional states take a recourse to phenomenal intentional states and eventually to sensual perceptions.
Saints’ mobility and confinement: deconstructing Byzantine stories of (fe)male ascetics and monastics
Authors: Papavarnavas Christodoulos
Published: June 2023

This article investigates stories of holiness which have ascetics or monastics as their hero(in)es and which develop based on a careful interlocking of two concepts: wanderings in urban or desert environments and self‐confinement in enclosed or secluded spaces. Through a close reading of two saints’ Lives (i.e., the Life of Mary of Egypt and the Life of Matrona of Perge) dating to the early and middle Byzantine periods, the present analysis uncovers the tripartite relationship between movement, confinement, and spiritual advancement from a literary‐narrative point of view, thus deepening our understanding of asceticism and monasticism in Byzantine contexts.
Subchondral lucencies of the medial femoral condyle in yearling and 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred sales horses: Prevalence, progression and associations with racing performance
Authors: Peat Frances J. , Kawcak Christopher E. , McIlwraith C. Wayne , Keenan David P. , Berk Jeffrey T. , Mork Daniel S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Subchondral lucencies (SCLs) in the distal aspect of the medial femoral condyle (MFC) of young Thoroughbred horses are a source of controversy on presale radiographs. There is limited scientific evidence regarding the risk of progression and impact on future racing performance.

Objectives

To (1) identify the prevalence of MFC SCLs on sales repository radiographs in yearling and 2‐year‐old Thoroughbreds; (2) identify any association between grade of MFC SCL and future racing performance and (3) monitor changes in MFC SCL grades between yearling and 2‐year‐old sales.

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Radiographs were obtained with consignor permission from a 2016 yearling sale and five 2017 2‐year‐old sales. Stifle radiographs were evaluated and MFC SCLs graded on a scale of 0–3. Axial MFC lucencies were recorded separately. Maximum MFC grades per horse were analysed for associations with racing performance outcomes, adjusted for sex, to the end of the horses' 4‐year‐old racing year. Analysis was via logistic, negative binomial or linear regression as appropriate, with the threshold for significance set at α = 0.05.

Results

Radiographs from 2508 yearlings (5016 stifles) and 436 2‐year‐olds (872 stifles) were included in the study. MFC SCLs of grades 1–3 were observed in 242 (9.65%) yearlings and 49 (11.2%) 2‐year‐olds. Bilateral MFC SCLs of grades 1–3 were observed in 54 (2.2%) yearlings and 12 (2.8%) 2‐year‐olds. Grade 1 MFC SCLs in yearlings either remained unchanged (14/31), progressed to a grade 2 (6/31) or resolved (11/31) by the 2‐year‐old sale. Grade 2 MFC SCLs in yearlings remained unchanged (6/10), progressed to a grade 3 (2/10) or improved to a grade 1 (2/10). Yearlings with a grade 3 MFC SCL had a 78% probability of starting a race (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.2–89.6%), compared with an 84% probability of racing for grade 0 yearlings (95% CI 82.7–85.8%). Six of the seven yearlings with axial MFC lucencies raced.

Main limitations

This study may underestimate the prevalence of severe lesions in the general yearling population of U.S. Thoroughbreds. However, the convenience sample used is representative of the population of interest at sales. The study design could not address exclusions prior to sale.

Conclusions

Grade 1 MFC SCLs are the most common type seen in yearling and 2‐year‐old sales horses. The majority of yearling grade 1 MFC SCLs resolved or remained static by 2‐year‐old sales. It was also possible for grade 2 and 3 MFC SCLs to improve one grade between sales. Fewer sales yearlings with a grade 3 MFC SCL raced, but in those that did race there was no evidence of worse performance compared to unaffected peers. Axial MFC lucencies did not affect racing performance.
Abnormal mare behaviour is rarely associated with changes in hormonal markers of granulosa cell tumours: A retrospective study
Authors: Huggins Lauren , Norris Jamie , Conley Alan , Dini Pouya
Published: June 2023

Background

Abnormal or undesired mare behaviours are often assumed to be associated with ovarian abnormalities.

Objectives

We aimed to determine the incidence of abnormal behaviours and their association with concentrations of one or more ovarian hormones associated with a granulosa cell tumour (GCT).

Study design

Retrospective descriptive.

Methods

A total of 2914 hormonal profile samples submitted with the words behave, behaviour, or behaving in the submission history were analysed. The association between reported abnormal behaviours and concentrations of testosterone, anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH), inhibins and inhibin‐B were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using a Chi‐squared test of association.

Results

Of the 2914 cases that were submitted due to behaviour issues, 2506 (86%) did not have any of the measured hormones reach GCT‐like concentrations. The remaining 408 cases had either one (63%), two (25.5%), or three (11.5%) hormones with concentrations consistent with those from confirmed GCT cases. Testosterone had the lowest percent of GCT‐like values among the cases (7.7%), compared with AMH (9.4%), inhibins (9.6%) and inhibin B (8.7%). Stallion‐like behaviour was significantly associated with increased concentrations of all four hormones. In contrast, aggression, oestrous and other abnormal behaviours were significantly less likely to be associated with increased concentrations of the hormones.

Main limitations

Retrospective study, using sample submission history.

Conclusion

Overall, the abnormal behaviours among mares, except the stallion‐like behaviour, were not associated with increased ovarian hormones. These results highlight the common misassumption about the involvement of the ovaries in ‘abnormal behaviours’ or ‘undesirable behaviours’ of mares.