bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking supply chain integration to supply chain orientation and performance – a knowledge integration perspective from Indian manufacturing industries
Authors: Dhaigude Amol S. , Kapoor Rohit , Gupta Narain , Padhi Sidhartha S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the complex interrelationships among the key constructs, supply chain orientation (SCO), supply chain integration (SCI) and supply chain performance (SCP) in Indian manufacturing industries. These relationships have been studied using the relational view (RV) and the knowledge-based view (KBV) theoretical perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model was derived from the existing body of knowledge in the supply chain domain. The study is based on a sample size of 122 data collected via face-to-face meetings with the Indian manufacturers using well-established scales. The covariance-based structural equation modeling was used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

In Indian manufacturing and supply chains, SCO has a positive relationship with SCI and SCP. Moreover, the direct impact of SCO on SCP diminishes when SCI is used as a mediating variable. This study also observes positive impact of: i) SCO on SCP, ii) SCI on SCP and iii) discovery of mediating role of SCI on SCP under the theoretical lenses of RV and KBV.

Research limitations/implications

Cross-sectional survey of manufacturing firms of one country (using one response per firm) calls for validation covering other parts of the world and demands a longitudinal survey. This research will trigger more scholarly, practice and policy debate among researchers studying Indian and emerging economies context.

Practical implications

The notion of a holistic view of the SC with a focus on improving the customer value can enhance strategic partnerships among the SC partners (i.e. SCI) and overall SCP. Firms should make efforts to include SCI in SC designs to successfully transform SCO into SCP.

Originality/value

The originality of the research lies in studying the complex interrelationships among key concepts of SC in a unique Indian manufacturing context. The Indian supply chains operate in a set of unique characteristics, which have been detailed out in this paper. This paper not only establishes the mediating role of SCI for overall SCP in emerging economies but also enhances the scholarly knowledge in the SC domain. Most studies report SCO as a single-order construct, measured by scales comprising of only few items. The second-order SCO measures in this study bring credibility to the findings. Additionally, it contributes to both academicians and practitioners alike in the context of an integrated SC in emerging economies.
Residual shear capacity of cold-formed steel-to-sheathing screwed connections at elevated temperatures
Authors: Liu Kun , Chen Wei , Ye Jihong , Jiang Jian , Chen Wenwen , Zhao Mingyue
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Most previous thermal-mechanical modeling of cold-formed steel (CFS) walls did not consider the failure of screwed connections under fire conditions because of the limited data of such connections at elevated temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, 285 steady-state tests are conducted on CFS screwed connections with single-layer gypsum plasterboard (GPB) and Bolivian magnesium board (BMB) sheathing at ambient and elevated temperatures. The failure of these connections is described as the breaking of the loaded sheathing edge.

Findings

For the BMB sheathing screwed connections, hydrochloric acid gas is generated and released above 300°C, and the shear strength becomes much less than that of the GPB sheathing screwed connection above 370°C. Hence, BMB may not be suitable for use as the face-layer sheathing of CFS walls but is still recommended to replace GPB as the base-layer sheathing. The major influencing parameters on the shear strength of screwed connections are identified as the type of sheathing material and the loaded sheathing edge distance.

Originality/value

Based on the previous and present test results, a unified expression for the residual shear strength of screwed connections with GPB and BMB is proposed at ambient and elevated temperatures with acceptable accuracy. It can be used as the basic input parameter of the numerical simulation of the CFS structures under fire conditions.
Digital content creation: an emerging role for librarians
Authors: Okuonghae Omorodion
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The increasing importance of digital content creation in relation to content marketing and promotion of library and information services in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has attracted global attention. Thus, the purpose of this study is to theoretically examine librarians’ role in the creation of digital content in the 4IR.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the review method to theoretically examine the nexus between digital content creation and librarians’ role in the 4IR.

Findings

This study showed that librarians are well positioned to become professional digital content creation, as they already possess the basic skills needed to create effective content for high user engagement.

Originality/value

This study seeks to pioneer a new area of focus by linking librarians’ skills to digital content creation skills and making a case for librarians as the perfect digital content creator.
Quality of group decisions by board members: a hidden-profile experiment
Authors: Coffeng Tessa , Van Steenbergen Elianne F. , De Vries Femke , Ellemers Naomi
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Reaching decisions in a deliberative manner is of utmost importance for boards, as their decision-making impacts entire organisations. The current study aims to investigate (1) the quality of group decisions made by board members, (2) their confidence in, satisfaction with, and reflection on the decision-making, and (3) the effect of two discussion procedures on objective decision quality and subjective evaluations of the decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

Board members of various Dutch non-profit organisations (N = 141) participated in a group decision-making task and a brief questionnaire. According to the hidden-profile paradigm, information was asymmetrically distributed among group members and should have been pooled to reach the objectively best decision. Half of the groups received one of two discussion procedures (i.e. advocacy decision or decisional balance sheet), while the other half received none.

Findings

Only a fifth of the groups successfully chose the best decision alternative. The initial majority preference strongly influenced the decision, which indicates that discussion was irrelevant to the outcome. Nevertheless, board members were satisfied with their decision-making. Using a discussion procedure enhanced participants' perception that they adequately weighed the pros and cons, but did not improve objective decision quality or other aspects of the subjective evaluation. These findings suggest that board members are unaware of their biased decision-making, which might hinder improvement.

Originality/value

Rather than using student samples, this study was the first to have board members participating in a hidden-profile task.
In auditor we trust: 44 years of research on the auditor-client relationship and future research directions
Authors: Mustikarini Arizona , Adhariani Desi
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to review the auditor-client relationship (ACR) literature spanning 1976 to 2019 to provide future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analysed 140 articles from the Web of Science database, authored by 259 scholars across 28 countries and published in 47 journals. It identified three major research streams to understand the ACR dynamics: auditor tenure, ACR attributes and auditor-client negotiation.

Findings

Three major findings emerged based on this review. First, few studies examine auditor-client negotiation relative to other streams; thus, it offers scope for further research. Second, given that various fields have used diverse frameworks as theoretical underpinnings in prior studies, continuing this trend can better portray ACR from multiple perspectives. Finally, despite strong international regulations on ACR aspects such as auditor independence, tenure and rotation, implementation in several countries warrants special considerations, specifically on legal enforcement and investor protection, given diverse cultures and country-level institutional environments.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the synthesis of existing and emerging research streams and provides future research suggestions.
Rethinking insolvency law amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Routledge James
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to consider the effectiveness of insolvency law given the increase in companies facing financial distress. Current insolvency law was not designed in the context of the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. Therefore, it may not provide the framework needed to assist the rehabilitation of distressed companies that is important to economic recovery. The purpose of this paper is to briefly discuss the rethinking of insolvency law policy with a view to maximising opportunities for rescue and rehabilitation.

Design/methodology/approach

The commentary offers suggestions on how insolvency law can maximise opportunities for rehabilitation. The approach is to consider competing theoretical perspectives on the objective of insolvency law and provide commentary on rethinking key insolvency law provisions to better meet the needs of distressed businesses in the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic and into the future.

Findings

This paper concludes that in the context of the pandemic insolvency policy that is value-based and debtor-friendly is needed to promote rehabilitation. Insolvency law should refocus on debtors and rehabilitation rather than being excessively focussed on the interest of creditors.

Originality/value

This paper offers a unique and timely commentary on the capacity of insolvency law to respond to the unforeseen COVD-19 pandemic.
Modernization and multipurpose arenas: providing context for tomorrow
Authors: Downs Benjamin Joseph , Seifried Chad Stephen
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the historical factors that influenced the design and construction of modern National Hockey League and National Basketball Association arenas between 1990 and 2018. Additionally, this paper seeks to index the characteristics of those modern arenas while forwarding reasonable, informed propositions for future multipurpose arena design.

Design/methodology/approach

The historical methodology was applied to the design and construction of modern multipurpose arenas between 1990 and 2018. Modernization theory was utilized as an organizing construct to understand the intentional managerial actions to capitalize on consumer expectations by responding to economic and technological changes.

Findings

Sport managers responded to decreased median family incomes during the period of the study by building arenas with increasingly commodified spaces and amenities targeting wealthy and corporate customers. New technologies were adopted within facilities to meet the needs and expectations of in-venue and remote consumers.

Practical implications

In addition to demonstrating the practical utility of modernization theory and applied history for sport management scholars and practitioners, particularly in the Western context, the present study provides a series of propositions for future sport managers to consider to maintain or establish institutional advantage in the arena marketplace.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the sport management literature by demonstrating the utility of modernization theory and applied history for sport management. In examining the design history of modern multipurpose arenas, the paper identifies the characteristics of modern multipurpose arenas while demonstrating the importance of understanding context and intentionality in managerial decision making.
Planning and organizing the Olympic and Paralympic Games: the case of Rio 2016
Authors: Groschl Stefan
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to provide an understanding of the multi-layered managerial and organizational challenges of mega sporting events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games, identify key competencies that address the complexities and uncertainties when planning and organizing the Olympic and Paralympic Games and provide a framework to classify sporting events according to their complexity and uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses in-depth semi-structured interview with key organizing actor of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016.

Findings

Planning and organizing complex and long-term mega sporting events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games require a set of key competencies, including a range of soft skills (collaboration, negotiation, communication), goal-setting, persistence and resilience, paradox thinking and timing.

Originality/value

Presenting the findings in an unedited and raw interview format provides practitioners and scholars alike with unfiltered and rich data that allows to choose, apply and adapt key competencies and heuristics from Rio 2016 to their own mega sporting projects or research agendas; allows to differentiate between sporting events according to their complexity and uncertainty.
Hyperspectral imaging for underwater object detection
Authors: Wang Zhixin , Xu Peng , Liu Bohan , Cao Yankun , Liu Zhi , Liu Zhaojun
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate the principle and practical applications of hyperspectral object detection, carry out the problem we now face and the possible solution. Also some challenges in this field are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the paper summarized the current research status of the hyperspectral techniques. Then, the paper demonstrated the development of underwater hyperspectral techniques from three major aspects, which are UHI preprocess, unmixing and applications. Finally, the paper presents a conclusion of applications of hyperspectral imaging and future research directions.

Findings

Various methods and scenarios for underwater object detection with hyperspectral imaging are compared, which include preprocessing, unmixing and classification. A summary is made to demonstrate the application scope and results of different methods, which may play an important role in the application of underwater hyperspectral object detection in the future.

Originality/value

This paper introduced several methods of hyperspectral image process, give out the conclusion of the advantages and disadvantages of each method, then demonstrated the challenges we face and the possible way to deal with them.
Long-run dynamics between CFP and CSP in the GCC banking sector: estimation of non-stationary heterogeneous panels allowing for cross-sectional dependence
Authors: Ben Douissa Ismail , Azrak Tawfik
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Causality between corporate financial performance (CFP) and corporate social performance (CSP) has been extensively debated in previous research works; however, little research has been done to investigate the long-run dynamics between these two constructs. The purpose of this paper is to enrich the CFP–CSP literature by estimating the long-run equilibrium relationship between financial performance and social performance in the banking sector in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries over the period 2009–2019.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts an approach that is primarily used in financial economics: first, the authors perform panel long-run Granger causality following Canning and Pedroni’s procedure to indicate the direction of the causal relationship. Second, the authors estimate an error correction model using Chudik and Pesaran’s (2015) dynamic common correlated effects mean group estimator to determine the sign of the relationship.

Findings

The present research findings prove the existence of a long-run equilibrium relationship between CFP and CSP, while indicating at the same time that panel Granger causality runs positively from CSP to CFP, which means that changes in CSP produce lasting changes in CFP.

Practical implications

The findings of the paper would guide strategists to build fit for purpose corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies in their firms and establish a continuous investment in CSR activities in the long run rather than harshly investing in CSR activities in the short run.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first one to address heterogeneity in long-run Granger causality tests to estimate the relationship between CSP and CFP.
Autolysis‐mediated membrane vesicle formation in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Abe Kimihiro , Toyofuku Masanori , Nomura Nobuhiko , Obana Nozomu
Published: April 2021

It is known that Bacillus subtilis releases membrane vesicles (MVs) during the SOS response, which is associated with cell lysis triggered by the PBSX prophage‐encoded cell‐lytic enzymes XhlAB and XlyA. In this study, we demonstrate that MVs are released under various stress conditions: sucrose fatty acid ester (SFE; surfactant) treatment, cold shock, starvation, and oxygen deficiency. B. subtilis possesses four major host‐encoded cell wall‐lytic enzymes (autolysins; LytC, LytD, LytE, and LytF). Deletions of the autolysin genes abolished autolysis and the consequent MV production under these stress conditions. In contrast, deletions of xhlAB and xlyA had no effect on autolysis‐triggered MV biogenesis, indicating that autolysis is a novel and prophage‐independent pathway for MV production in B. subtilis. Moreover, we found that the cell lysis induced by the surfactant treatment was effectively neutralized by the addition of exogenous purified MVs. This result suggests that the MVs can serve as a decoy for the cellular membrane to protect the living cells in the culture from membrane damage by the surfactant. Our results indicate a positive effect of B. subtilis MVs on cell viability and provide new insight into the biological importance of the autolysis phenomenon in B. subtilis.
The mineral weathering ability of Collimonas pratensis PMB3(1) involves a Malleobactin‐mediated iron acquisition system
Authors: Picard Laura , Paris Cédric , Dhalleine Tiphaine , Morin Emmanuelle , Oger Philippe , Turpault Marie‐Pierre , Uroz Stéphane
Published: April 2021

Mineral weathering by microorganisms is considered to occur through a succession of mechanisms based on acidification and chelation. While the role of acidification is established, the role of siderophores is difficult to disentangle from the effect of the acidification. We took advantage of the ability of strain Collimonas pratensis PMB3(1) to weather minerals but not to acidify depending on the carbon source to address the role of siderophores in mineral weathering. We identified a single non‐ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) responsible for siderophore biosynthesis in the PMB3(1) genome. By combining iron‐chelating assays, targeted mutagenesis and chemical analyses (HPLC and LC‐ESI‐HRMS), we identified the siderophore produced as malleobactin X and how its production depends on the concentration of available iron. Comparison with the genome sequences of other collimonads evidenced that malleobactin production seems to be a relatively conserved functional trait, though some collimonads harboured other siderophore synthesis systems. We also revealed by comparing the wild‐type strain and its mutant impaired in the production of malleobactin that the ability to produce this siderophore is essential to allow the dissolution of hematite under non‐acidifying conditions. This study represents the first characterization of the siderophore produced by collimonads and its role in mineral weathering.
Platform encounters: A study of digitised patient follow‐up in HIV care
Authors: Marent Benjamin , Henwood Flis ,   the EmERGE Consortium
Published: April 2021

Digital technologies are increasingly embedded in clinical encounters, reconfiguring the basis on which health care is delivered. Thereby, the delivery of care shifts from territorial locations in clinics and temporal modes of co‐presence towards digital platforms. Drawing on a sociotechnical evaluation of digitised patient follow‐up in HIV care, this paper argues that the forms of interactivity practised in platform encounters cannot be adequately understood through traditional interaction frameworks such as Erving Goffman's interaction order. To conceptualise the new informational space and temporal mode of ‘response presence’ within which platform encounters are conducted, the paper draws on theoretical advances made by Karin Knorr Cetina who further developed Goffman's interaction order to describe interactions augmented by ‘scopic media’. A comprehensive framework is presented to elaborate the distinct qualities of interactions occurring in face‐to‐face, tele‐interaction and platform encounters and to analyse their affordances based on doctor and patient experiences. This framework is intended to stimulate further research on how new interactional forms between doctors and patients will reconfigure roles and responsibilities as well as wider structures of digital society. Furthermore, it can also support practical guidance of when and how different forms of clinical encounters may be integrated in care pathways.
TITLING AS A CONTESTED PROCESS: Conditional Land Rights and Subaltern Citizenship in South India
Authors: Jonnalagadda Indivar , Stock Ryan , Misquitta Karan
Published: April 2021

Drawing on multi‐sited fieldwork and discourse analysis of government orders, we investigate land‐titling programmes that distribute marginal public land to the poor in both urban and rural South India. We suggest understanding this type of distribution as a process of creating a subaltern category of land ownership to facilitate governance of lands and people entangled inde factoland tenures. Although these titling initiatives have been largely ignored or dismissed as failures in the existing literature, we argue that they have had significant socio‐political effects. First, we argue that, despite the attempt to create a differentiated property regime, titling engenders a complex juridico‐legal terrain where the bounds of ‘subaltern citizenship’ are contested and negotiated. Second, we show that titling is better understood as a process that creates new social relations and new expectations of the normative relationship between state and citizen. Finally, we suggest that the practices and discourses of the land bureaucracy are a window into the production of spatial relations based on pressures from above and below. In sum, we show how a history of iterative titling has resulted in the entanglement of struggles over possession, personhood and citizenship for marginalized groups in the region.
Online versus offline: Exploring the link between how candidates campaign and how voters cast their ballot
Authors: TRUMM SIIM
Published: April 2021

The Internet is playing an increasingly important role in shaping citizens’ political experience. We turn to it to consume political news and, in some countries, to even cast our ballots at parliamentary elections. Leading the way in embracing Internet voting (i‐voting) is Estonia where nearly half of the ballots cast during the 2019 parliamentary election were submitted online. Using original data from the 2019 Estonian Candidate Study, this paper explores the relationship between how candidates campaign and their electoral performance. It finds greater use of both offline and online campaign tools to contribute to higher vote shares as candidates win more traditional and i‐votes. These positive effects are similar in size, in terms of candidates’ overall electoral performance as well as their ability to attract different types of votes. The results show not only that individual‐level campaigns continue to matter, but that online campaigns have become as important as offline campaigns for candidates, and voters’ political activity often transcends the medium through which they receive political communication.
Systematised, Interdisciplinary Malnutrition Program for impLementation and Evaluation delivers improved hospital nutrition care processes and patient reported experiences – An implementation study
Authors: Bell Jack J. , Young Adrienne M. , Hill Jan M. , Banks Merrilyn D. , Comans Tracy A. , Barnes Rhiannon , Keller Heather H.
Published: April 2021

Aim

Models of hospital malnutrition care reliant on dietitians can be inefficient and of limited effectiveness. This study evaluated whether implementing the Systematised, Interdisciplinary Malnutrition Program for impLementation and Evaluation (SIMPLE) improved hospital nutrition care processes and patientreported experiences compared with traditional practice.

Methods

A multi‐site (five hospitals) prospective, pre‐post study evaluated the facilitated implementation of SIMPLE, a malnutrition care pathway promoting proactive nutrition support delivered from time of malnutrition screening by the interdisciplinary team, without need for prior dietetic assessment. Implementation was tailored to local site needs and resources. Nutrition care processes delivered to inpatients who were malnourished or at‐risk of malnutrition were identified across diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring domains using standardised audits from medical records, foodservice systems and patient‐reported nutrition experience measures.

Results

Pre‐implementation (n = 365) and post‐implementation (n = 397) cohorts were similar for age (74 vs 73 years), gender (47.1% vs 48.6% female), and nutrition risk status (46.6% vs 45.3% at‐risk). Post‐implementation, at‐risk participants were more likely to receive enhanced food and fluids (68.5% vs 83.9%; P < .01), nutrition information (30.9% vs 47.2%; P < .01), mealtime assistance where required (61.4% vs 77.9% P = .04), nutrition monitoring (25.2% vs 46.3%; P < .01) and care planning (17.8% vs 27.7%; P = .01). Patient‐reported nutrition experience measures confirmed improved nutrition care. There was no difference in dietetic occasions of service per patient (1.51 vs 1.25; P = .83).

Conclusions

Tailored SIMPLE implementation improves nutrition care processes and patient reported nutrition experience measures for at‐risk inpatients within existing dietetic resources.
Temporal variation of the underwater soundscape in Jiaotou Bay, an Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) habitat off Hainan Island, China
Authors: DONG Lijun , DONG Jianchen , CARUSO Francesco , ZHAO Likun , LI Songhai
Published: April 2021

The underwater soundscape is an important ecological element affecting numerous aquatic animals, in particular dolphins, which must identify salient cues from ambient ocean noise. In this study, temporal variations in the soundscape of Jiaotou Bay were monitored from February 2016 to January 2017, where a population of Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) has recently been a regular sighting. An autonomous acoustic recorder was deployed in shallow waters, and 1/3‐octave band sound pressure levels (SPLs) were calculated with central frequencies ranging from 25 Hz to 40 kHz, then were grouped into 3 subdivided bands via cluster analysis. SPLs at each major band showed significant differences on a diel, fishing‐related period, seasonal, and tidal phase scale. Anthropogenic noise generated by passing ships and underwater explosions were recorded in the study area. The fish and dolphin acoustic activities both exhibited diel and seasonal variations, but no tidal cycle patterns. A negative significant relationship between anthropogenic sound detection rates and dolphin detection rates were observed, and fish detection rates showed no effect on dolphin detection rates, indicating anthropogenic activity avoidance and no forced foraging in dolphins in the study area. The results provide fundamental insight into the acoustic dynamics of an important Indo‐Pacific humpback dolphin habitat within a coastal area affected by a rapid increase in human activity, and demonstrate the need to protect animal habitat from anthropogenic noises.
Trimethylamine modulates dauer formation, neurodegeneration, and lifespan through tyra‐3/daf‐11 signaling in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Khanna Amit , Sellegounder Durai , Kumar Jitendra , Chamoli Manish , Vargas Miguel , Chinta Shankar J. , Rane Anand , Nelson Christopher , Peiris T. Harshani , Brem Rachel , Andersen Julie , Lithgow Gordon , Kapahi Pankaj
Published: April 2021

In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, signals derived from bacteria in the diet, the animal's major nutrient source, can modulate both behavior and healthspan. Here we describe a dual role for trimethylamine (TMA), a human gut flora metabolite, which acts as a nutrient signal and a neurotoxin. TMA and its associated metabolites are produced by the human gut microbiome and have been suggested to serve as risk biomarkers for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. We demonstrate that the tyramine receptor TYRA‐3, a conserved G protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR), is required to sense TMA and mediate its responses. TMA activates guanylyl cyclase DAF‐11 signaling through TYRA‐3 in amphid neurons (ASK) and ciliated neurons (BAG) to mediate food‐sensing behavior. Bacterial mutants deficient in TMA production enhance dauer formation, extend lifespan, and are less preferred as a food source. Increased levels of TMA lead to neural damage in models of Parkinson's disease and shorten lifespan. Our results reveal conserved signaling pathways modulated by TMA in C. elegans that are likely to be relevant for its effects in mammalian systems.
Five‐year follow‐up after cervical cytology and histology discordance: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Scheck Simon M. , Liddle Catherine , Wood Zoë , Lockett Bruce , Sircar Sikhar
Published: April 2021

Background

Cervical smear cytology and colposcopic biopsy histology are prone to error at both collection and interpretation stages, leading to a large number of discordant cases.

Aims

Investigation of five‐year outcomes for women who have cervical cytology that is discordant and higher grade than histology results.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out for 111 women with cervical cytology discordant and higher grade than histology, after cytopathological review, over a three‐year period. Five‐year follow‐up data were reviewed to identify the highest level of pathology seen within five years from the discordance.

Results

Women with atypical squamous cells with possible high‐grade change (ASC‐H) cytology and negative biopsy (n = 28) had a 46% chance of high‐grade histological disease within 5 years; with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1) histology (n = 20), this was reduced to 30%. With high‐grade cytology and negative histology (n = 23), 48% had high‐grade disease within five years, including one case of invasive disease; with CIN1 histology 50% had high‐grade disease within five years.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a 30–50% chance of high‐grade disease within five years, in the setting of ASC‐H or high‐grade cytology with a negative or low‐grade colposcopic biopsy. This highlights that in the setting of cytology and histology discordance, at least one of the tests indicating high‐grade pathology warrants the need for treatment or close ongoing surveillance.
Proactively providing contraception to New Zealand adolescents
Authors: Duncan Rebecca , Paterson Helen , Anderson Lynley , Pickering Neil
Published: April 2021

High adolescent pregnancy rates in New Zealand (NZ) are influenced by limited access to contraception. In this paper, we discuss using a proactive contraception provision (PCP) model to overcome barriers that prevent effective contraceptive uptake. After outlining steps taken to assess acceptability of PCP in NZ, we cover three issues to consider with PCP: the range of contraceptives that should be offered, the age range that should be approached, and finally whether to include adolescents without uteruses. We conclude that PCP is an approach worth considering in the NZ context and should be piloted to assess feasibility and effectiveness.
The perception of economic inequality in everyday life: My friends with the most and least money
Authors: García‐Castro Juan Diego , García‐Sánchez Efraín , Montoya‐Lozano Mar , Rodríguez‐Bailón Rosa
Published: April 2021

The study of perceived economic differences in everyday life is relevant to deepening knowledge of how inequality shapes psychological processes. In the current research, Spanish undergraduates (N = 547) were asked what their friends with the most and least money could do with their resources. Using a qualitative and quantitative approach, we performed a content analysis of the 1,085 open‐ended responses given, ran latent class analyses with the coded material to identify groups of participants, and explored whether class membership was associated with their awareness of inequality and support for redistribution. Participants perceived inequality among their friends through daily indicators such as consumption, opportunities, leisure, and mental health; some participants used compensatory strategies to mitigate perceived inequality. Latent class analyses suggested that participants differed mostly in the attention paid to consumption and in the use of compensatory strategies. Exploratory analyses suggested that perceiving inequality in everyday life in terms of consumption, negative attributes towards the wealthy, or positive attributes towards low socioeconomic groups was related to acknowledging economic differences among individuals and support for redistribution. The study of perceived economic inequality in everyday life continues a new line of research with the potential to obtain results more consistent with people's experiences.
Impact of chronic vitamin A excess on sperm morphogenesis in mice
Authors: Yokota Satoshi , Sekine Nao , Wakayama Tomohiko , Oshio Shigeru
Published: April 2021

Background

The increasing availability of fortified foods and supplements has caused an overconsumption of vitamin A (VA), above the recommended level. To date, the effects of chronic VA excess (VAE) on spermatogenesis remain unclear.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the long‐term excessive intake of VA effects on spermatogenesis in mice.

Materials and methods

Dams were initially fed a control diet (4 IU/g) or a VAE diet (250 IU/g), 4 weeks prior to mating and during pregnancy. Dams and their male pups continued this diet regimen until the offspring reached 12 weeks of age. At 12 weeks of age, epididymis caudal spermatozoa and testes were collected. For histological analysis, sections were stained with periodic acid‐Schiff‐hematoxylin, and quantitative PCR was used to detect changes in gene expression in the testes of the VAE mice. Sperm motility and morphology were evaluated to detect the endpoint of VAE toxicity.

Results

Body weights were not significantly different between the control and VAE groups. Testicular cross‐sections from the control and VAE mice contained a normal array of germ cells, and the daily sperm production was similar between the two groups. However, the percentage of seminiferous tubules in stages VII and VIII was significantly lower in the VAE mice than in the control. In addition, significant changes in the expression of genes involved in retinoid metabolism, spermatogenesis, and spermiogenesis were detected in the testes of the VAE mice. Consistently, sperm motility and head morphology were significantly impaired in the VAE mice.

Discussion and Conclusion

Our findings suggest that long‐term dietary intake of VAE was able to influence both pre‐ and post‐meiotic spermatogenesis. As a result of testicular toxicity, we demonstrated, to the best of our knowledge, for the first time that long‐term VAE caused sperm‐head abnormalities.
No functional TRPA1 in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Hoebart Clara , Rojas‐Galvan Natalia S. , Ciotu Cosmin I. , Aykac Ibrahim , Reissig Lukas F. , Weninger Wolfgang J. , Kiss Attila , Podesser Bruno K. , Fischer Michael J. M. , Heber Stefan
Published: April 2021

Aim

There is mounting evidence that TRPA1 has a role in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. We aim to clarify the site of TRPA1 expression in the heart and in particular whether the channel is expressed in cardiomyocytes.

Methods

Due to the high calcium conductance of TRPA1, and marginal calcium changes being detectable, microfluorimetry in primary mouse cardiomyocytes, and in the cardiomyocyte cell lines H9c2 and HL‐1, was applied. TRPA1 mRNA in mouse and human hearts, primary cardiomyocytes, and the cardiac cell lines were quantified. Dorsal root ganglia served as control for both methods.

Results

In addition to AITC, the more potent and specific TRPA1 agonists JT010 and PF‐4840154 failed to elicit a TRPA1‐mediated response in native and electrically paced primary cardiomyocytes, and the cardiomyocyte cell lines H9c2 and HL‐1. There were only marginal levels of TRPA1 mRNA in cardiomyocytes and cardiac cell lines, also in conditions of cell differentiation or inflammation, which might occur in pathophysiological conditions. Similarly, TRPV1 agonist capsaicin did not activate primary mouse cardiomyocytes, did not alter electrically paced activity in these, and did not activate H9c2 cells or alter spontaneous activity of HL‐1 cells. Human pluripotent stem cells differentiated to cardiomyocytes had no relevant TRPA1 mRNA levels. Also in human post‐mortem heart samples, TRPA1 mRNA levels were substantially lower compared with the respective dorsal root ganglion.

Conclusion

The results do not question a role of TRPA1 in the heart but exclude a direct effect in cardiomyocytes.
The non‐consensus 1992 consensus
Authors: Wang Austin Horng‐En , Yeh Yao‐Yuan , Wu Charles K. S. , Chen Fang‐Yu
Published: April 2021

The 1992 Consensus is perhaps the most crucial political term for cross‐strait relations. Surveys show that the public consistently supports it in Taiwan. Despite the alleged broad support, there has not been an academic study examining if Taiwanese people understand the content of the 1992 Consensus. Such an inquiry is important as the administration in Taiwan has yet accepted the Consensus in its interactions with Beijing. A nearly representative online survey was conducted in July 2018, and 1001 Taiwanese respondents were recruited to choose among different “definitions” of the 1992 Consensus. Results show that only one‐third of the respondents chose the version that Kuomintang agreed on, while another one‐third misperceived the 1992 Consensus as a country‐to‐country agreement. Taiwanese people might have supported the Consensus for content that it is not. We then discuss the policy implications of our study for both China and Taiwan and provide future research orientations.
Influence of N‐acetyltransferase 2 gene polymorphisms on the in vitro metabolism of the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor rociletinib
Authors: Ramirez Jacqueline , House Larry K. , Ratain Mark J.
Published: April 2021

Aims

Rociletinib showed activity in T790M‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer patients. It undergoes amide hydrolysis to form M502, followed by N‐acetylation to M544 or amide hydrolysis to M460. We identified the enzymes responsible for rociletinib metabolism, and investigated the relationship between M544 formation and N‐acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) polymorphisms.

Methods

Rociletinib and metabolites were incubated with carboxylesterase (CES)1b, CES1c, CES2, NAT1, NAT2, arylacetamide deacetylase, inhibitors, pooled human liver microsomes (HLM) and cytosols (HLC). Cytosols (n = 107) were genotyped for NAT2 polymorphisms (rs1041983 and rs1801280) and incubated with M502. Human hepatocytes from intermediate (NAT2*6/*12A) and slow (NAT2*5B/*5B) acetylators were incubated with 10 μM rociletinib and metabolites for 24 hours. Metabolites were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

M502 was formed from rociletinib and M544 by CES2 and HLM; M544 and N‐acetyl‐M460 were formed by NAT2 and HLC; M460 was not formed by CES or arylacetamide deacetylase. M502 formation by HLM was inhibited by bis‐(4‐nitrophenyl)phosphate and eserine (10 μM). M544 formation in HLC was inhibited by 100 μM quercetin and was associated with NAT2 genotype (P < .0001). M460 formation in HLM was inhibited by eserine, and M460 was N‐acetylated in HLC. Hepatocytes formed M502, M544 and M460. The intermediate acetylator showed higher production (range: 3.4–5.1‐fold) of N‐acetylated metabolites than the slow acetylator.

Conclusions

Results indicate that NAT2 and CES2 are involved in rociletinib metabolism, and polymorphic NAT2 could alter drug exposure in patients. Slow NAT2 acetylators would have higher exposure to M502 and M460 and consequently, be at increased risk of experiencing hyperglycaemia and QTc prolongation.
The oxysterome and its receptors as pharmacological targets in inflammatory diseases
Authors: Guillemot‐Legris Owein , Muccioli Giulio G.
Published: April 2021

Oxysterols have gained attention over the last decades and are now considered as fully fledged bioactive lipids. The study of their levels in several conditions, including atherosclerosis, obesity and neurodegenerative diseases, led to a better understanding of their involvement in (patho)physiological processes such as inflammation and immunity. For instance, the characterization of the cholesterol‐7α,25‐dihydroxycholesterol/GPR183 axis and its implication in immunity represents an important step in the oxysterome study. Besides this axis, others were identified as important in several inflammatory pathologies (such as colitis, lung inflammation and atherosclerosis). However, the oxysterome is a complex system notably due to a redundancy of metabolic enzymes and a wide range of receptors. Indeed, deciphering oxysterol roles and identifying the potential receptor(s) involved in a given pathology remain challenging. Oxysterol properties are very diverse, but most of them could be connected by a common component: inflammation. Here, we review the implication of oxysterol receptors in inflammatory diseases.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Oxysterols, Lifelong Health and Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.16/issuetoc
Identification of a critical binding site for local anaesthetics in the side pockets of Kv1 channels
Authors: Kiper Aytug K. , Bedoya Mauricio , Stalke Sarah , Marzian Stefanie , Ramírez David , de la Cruz Alicia , Peraza Diego A. , Vera‐Zambrano Alba , Márquez Montesinos José C. E. , Arévalo Ramos Bárbara A. , Rinné Susanne , Gonzalez Teresa , Valenzuela Carmen , Gonzalez Wendy , Decher Niels
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose

Local anaesthetics block sodium and a variety of potassium channels. Although previous studies identified a residue in the pore signature sequence together with three residues in the S6 segment as a putative binding site, the precise molecular basis of inhibition of Kv channels by local anaesthetics remained unknown. Crystal structures of Kv channels predict that some of these residues point away from the central cavity and face into a drug binding site called side pockets. Thus, the question arises whether the binding site of local anaesthetics is exclusively located in the central cavity or also involves the side pockets.

Experimental Approach

A systematic functional alanine mutagenesis approach, scanning 58 mutants, together with in silico docking experiments and molecular dynamics simulations was utilized to elucidate the binding site of bupivacaine and ropivacaine.

Key Results

Inhibition of Kv1.5 channels by local anaesthetics requires binding to the central cavity and the side pockets, and the latter requires interactions with residues of the S5 and the back of the S6 segments. Mutations in the side pockets remove stereoselectivity of inhibition of Kv1.5 channels by bupivacaine. Although binding to the side pockets is conserved for different local anaesthetics, the binding mode in the central cavity and the side pockets shows considerable variations.

Conclusion and Implications

Local anaesthetics bind to the central cavity and the side pockets, which provide a crucial key to the molecular understanding of their Kv channel affinity and stereoselectivity, as well as their spectrum of side effects.
Investigation of implant internal screw loosening under hyperbaric conditions: An in vitro study
Authors: Özyurt Anıl
Published: April 2021

Background and purpose

The internal screw has an essential role in carrying abutment and prosthesis loading. Some dental implant patients such as scuba divers, mineworkers, and hyperbaric oxygen patients are exposed to hyperbaric atmospheres. The aim of this study was to investigate internal screw loosening under hyperbaric conditions.

Materials and methods

Forty‐two dental implants were placed into plexiglass blocks. Abutments were fixed with internal screws by 25 Ncm torque force. Groups were set as control, 2.8‐bar air pressure, and 4‐bar air pressure groups. Hyperbaric groups were subdivided and exposed to either one or six cycles. Removal torque values were measured with a digital torque meter. Data were analyzed statistically using analysis of variance and Tamhane's T2 tests, considering p < 0.05 as the level of statistical significance. Internal screw threads were qualitatively observed under magnification.

Results

Four‐bar groups showed the lowest removal torque values among all groups (p < 0.001). 2.8‐Bar groups did not show significant differences compared with control groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the one and six pressure cycle subgroups in each group. All internal screw threads had various deformations.

Conclusion

Four‐bar air pressure had a significant effect on internal screw loosening. Internal screw tightening protocols should be reconsidered for patients exposed to advanced hyperbaric conditions.
Study on the effect of different dyeing systems on the interaction of multi‐component reactive dyes by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Dai Yamin , Xu Hong , Zhong Yi , Zhang Linping , Sui Xiaofeng , Feng Xueling , Wang Bijia , Mao Zhiping
Published: April 2021

The interaction of dye molecules in different adsorption systems is diverse, which affects the adsorption process. In this work, the real‐time adsorption process of CI Reactive Red 195 (RR195), CI Reactive Yellow 145 (RY145), and CI Reactive Blue 194 (RB194) in the actual dyeing process have been studied on cotton fabric by Raman spectroscopy. Three single, three binary, and one ternary system have been investigated at different temperatures (40, 50, 60, and 80°C). The equilibrium dye‐uptake of RR195 and RY145 on cotton fabric decreased with the addition of other components, while that of RB194 remained unchanged. The temperature has little effect on the dyeing of cotton fabric with the RR195/RY145 system. The RR195/RB194 system is more suitable for high‐temperature dyeing. RY145 is less affected by temperature below 60°C while dyeing at 80°C is greatly affected by temperature in the four systems. RB194 with a higher substantivity to the cotton fibre is less affected by temperature in the four systems. The batch adsorption rate data for the seven systems have been analysed based on pseudo‐second‐order kinetics. The results showed that the increase in temperature can accelerate the dyeing rate and time for dye adsorption to reach equilibrium. Activation parameters revealed the potential barrier that dyes need to overcome when dyeing cotton fabrics in different systems. In the actual combination dyeing process, the analysis of each component process can optimise the dye formulation and improve the dye utilisation.