bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S100A11 promotes focal adhesion disassembly via myosin II-driven contractility and Piezo1-mediated Ca2+entry
Authors: Mohammed Tareg Omer , Lin You-Rong , Weissenbruch Kai , Ngo Kien Xuan , Zhang Yanjun , Kodera Noriyuki , Bastmeyer Martin , Miyanari Yusuke , Taoka Azuma , Franz Clemens M.
Published: July 2023

S100A11 is a small Ca2+-activatable protein with an established role in different cellular processes involving actin cytoskeleton remodeling, such as cell migration, membrane protrusion formation, and plasma membrane repair. It also displays Ca2+-dependent F-actin binding activity and localizes to actin stress fibers (SFs), but its precise role in regulating these structures remains unclear. Analyzing endogenous S100A11 localization in HeLa and U2OS osteosarcoma cells confirmed SF association but in addition revealed steady localization to stable focal adhesions (FAs), typically at the end of dorsal stress fibers. In contrast, S100A11 levels at FAs increased sharply, but transiently, at the onset of peripheral FA disassembly. Elevating intracellular Ca2+levels using the Ca2+ionophore ionomycin reliably stimulated both S100A11 recruitment and subsequent FA disassembly. However, pre-incubation with the non-muscle myosin II (NM II) inhibitor blebbistatin, or with an inhibitor to the stretch-activatable Ca2+channel Piezo1 effectively suppressed S100A11 recruitment, implicating S100A11 in an actomyosin contractility-driven FA disassembly mechanism involving Piezo1-dependent Ca2+influx. Applying external mechanical forces on peripheral FAs via a micropipette likewise recruited S100A11 to FAs, even when NM II was inhibited by blebbistatin or in NM IIA knockout cells, corroborating the mechanosensitive recruitment mechanism of S100A11. However, extracellular Ca2+and Piezo1 function was still indispensable, indicating that NM II-dependent contraction forces act upstream of Piezo1-mediated Ca2+influx, in turn leading to S100A11 activation and FA recruitment. Moreover, S100A11 knockout cells feature enlarged FAs and display delayed FA disassembly during cell membrane retraction, consistent with impaired FA turnover in these cells. Our results thus demonstrate a novel mechano-sensitive function for S100A11 in promoting actomyosin contractility-driven FA disassembly.
A signalling rheostat controls chromosome segregation fidelity during early lineage specification and neurogenesis by modulating DNA replication stress
Authors: De Jaime-Soguero A , Hattemer J , Haas A , Bufe A , Di Marco B , Böhly N , Landry JJM , Schoell B , Rosa VS , Villacorta L , Baskan Y , Androulaki S , Trapp M , Benes V , Das B , Shahbazi M , Jauch A , Engel U , Patrizi A , Sotillo R , Bageritz J , Alfonso J , Bastians H , Acebrón SP
Published: July 2023

The development and homeostasis of organisms rely on the correct replication, maintenance and segregation of their genetic blueprints. How these intracellular processes are monitored across generations of different human cellular lineages, and why the spatio-temporal distribution of mosaicism varies during development remain unknown. Here, we identify several lineage specification signals that regulate chromosome segregation fidelity in both human and mouse pluripotent stem cells. Through epistatic analyses, we find that that WNT, BMP and FGF form a signalling “rheostat” upstream of ATM that monitors replication fork velocity, origin firing and DNA damage during S-phase in pluripotency, which in turn controls spindle polymerisation dynamics and faithful chromosome segregation in the following mitosis. Cell signalling control of chromosome segregation fidelity declines together with ATM activity after pluripotency exit and specification into the three human germ layers, or further differentiation into meso– and endoderm lineages, but re-emerges during neuronal lineage specification. In particular, we reveal that a tug-of-war between FGF and WNT signalling in neural progenitor cells results in DNA damage and chromosome missegregation during cortical neurogenesis, which could provide a rationale for the high levels of mosaicism in the human brain. Our results highlight a moonlighting role of morphogens, patterning signals and growth factors in genome maintenance during pluripotency and lineage specification, which could have important implications for our understanding on how mutations and aneuploidy arise during human development and disease.

One sentence summary

Developmental signals link genome maintenance to cell fate
The influence of skepticism on the university Millennials’ organic food product purchase intention
Authors: Hoyos-Vallejo Carlos Arturo , Carrión-Bósquez Nelson Geovany , Ortiz-Regalado Oscar
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study extends the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and analyzes the influence of skepticism (SKP) on the purchase intention (PI) of organic products, through the mediation of subjective norms (SN) and planned behavior control.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional study. The study population comprised 446 university Millennials from Ecuador. Results were processed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The study showed that SKP does not directly influence the PI. However, if it does so through the mediating effect of SN and perceived behavior control (PBC). Also, the study found that attitudes (ATTs), SN and PBC influence the PI of organic products in university Millennials.

Originality/value

The study used TPB constructs and identified the influence of SKP on the intention to buy organic products in Ecuadorian university Millennials.
A conceptual framework for practicing inclusive dialogic organization development in times of uncertainty and complexity
Authors: Kwon Chang-kyu , Kwon Kibum
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework for practicing inclusive dialogic organization development (OD).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews and presents Robert Kegan’s theory and practice of deliberately developmental organization as an exemplary model for dialogic OD.

Findings

The paper suggests three conditions to make the constantly emerging organizational reality socially just, equitable and inclusive – whole self, psychological safety and leader vulnerability.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper lies in making explicit issues of power in dialogic OD literature and providing implications for human resource development on how to lead and develop organizations inclusively in times of uncertainty and complexity.
BIM implementation model from the standpoint of concern-based adoption theory
Authors: Olugboyega Oluseye , Elubode Itunnu Dorcas , Oseghale Godwin Ehis , Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the concerns and plans of construction professionals about building information modeling (BIM) implementation, found the acceptable BIM implementation driving forces and strategies for them and developed a prescriptive BIM implementation model to help understand how BIM implementation concerns, intentions, driving forces and strategies are connected.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a positivist paradigm with a hypothetico-deductive research strategy as well as concern-based adoption theory as a conceptual lens to distinguish construction professionals (CPs)' BIM implementation concerns and intentions. This implies that the forces driving BIM implementation intentions and concerns are related to BIM implementation methods and that their concentrations are proportional to the intensity of BIM implementation strategies. A 16-item questionnaire tailored to the operations of CPs was used for data collection. The data collected from respondents were utilized to evaluate the proposed model using structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques.

Findings

Findings from the data collected from the respondents revealed that CPs are concerned about the impact of BIM deployment on their time and service quality. Their main purpose was to take drives to learn more about BIM in order to pique their curiosity. Embracing the latest digital technology and beginning self-initiated BIM training are two strategies that would be quite effective in boosting BIM deployment.

Research limitations/implications

The study identifies promising directions for future BIM implementation research and development. The study's findings imply that more theoretically motivated research, rather than just empirical research, is required to refine BIM implementation concerns.

Practical implications

The study has implications for the professional development of CPs as well as understanding the process of implementing BIM change. The study's findings will help to understand the resource system for assessing CPs' needs and concerns and selecting personalized BIM implementation strategies.

Originality/value

Before this study, BIM-related studies had ignored the concerns and goals of the CPs when it came to implementing BIM. Using the CPs' concerns and hopes for BIM implementation, a systemic BIM implementation model was developed that would help and speed up BIM adoption.
Distributional impacts of anchor borrower program on the welfare of rice farming households in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Emokpae Osayi Precious , Emokaro Christopher Osamudiamen , Umeokeke Nneji Ifeyinwa
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study assessed the heterogeneous impact of the Anchor Borrower Program (ABP) on the welfare distribution of rice farming households in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Self-selection bias and treatment endogeneity were accounted for by employing the Instrumental Variable Quantile Regression (IVQR) model. The estimates obtained from the IVQR model were further compared with those from the conventional quantile regression, and quantile regression using Propensity Score Matching. This was to highlight the extent to which endogeneity bias has been purged from the treatment, in order to establish a consistent causal link between participation in the ABP and the welfare of a cross-section of rice farming households.

Findings

ABP farmers had significantly higher rice yields across all quantiles of the yield distribution under treatment exogeneity assumption, and in only two quantiles upon controlling for observable confounders. However, this yield gain did not translate to higher Per capita Consumption Expenditure (PCE). The estimates of the more robust IVQR model provided further evidence that the rice yield and PCE of ABP farmers are not statistically different from that of non-ABP farmers across all quantiles of the welfare distribution.

Social implications

The negligible impact of ABP was relatively higher for lower-yielding households. Thus, implying that, although the ABP is a pro-poor development intervention, the program has not been sufficiently implemented to significantly improve the welfare of the dominant resource-poor farming households in Nigeria.

Originality/value

This study assessed the impact of ABP beyond the conventional potential mean outcome framework by accounting for heterogeneity in treatment effect.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-02-2023-0083
Liquidity, informational efficiency and firm default risk: a systematic literature review
Authors: Zhao Lingling , Mollica Vito , Shen Yun , Liang Qi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to systematically review the literature in the fields of liquidity, informational efficiency and default risk. The authors outline the key research streams and provide possible pathways for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts bibliographic mapping to identify the most influential studies in the research fields of liquidity, informational efficiency and default risk from 1984 to 2021.

Findings

The study identifies four key research themes that include efficiency and transparency of markets; corporate yield spreads; market interactions: bonds, stocks and cryptocurrencies; and corporate governance. By assessing publications published from 2018 to 2021, the authors also document seven key emerging research trends: cross markets, managerial learning and corporate governance, state ownership and government subsidies, international evidence, machine learning (FinTech approaches), environmental themes and financial crisis. Drawing on these emerging trends, the authors highlight the opportunities for future research.

Research limitations/implications

Keyword searches have limitations since some studies might be overlooked if they do not match the specified search criteria, even though their relevance to the topic is under investigation. Adopt the R project to expand this review by incorporating more literature from other databases, such as the Scopus database could be a possible solution.

Practical implications

The four key research streams contribute to a comprehensive understanding of liquidity, informational efficiency and default risk. The emerging trends integrate existing knowledge and leave the chance for innovative research to expand the research frontier.

Originality/value

This study fulfills the systematic literature review streams in the fields of liquidity, informational efficiency and default risk, and provides fruitful opportunities for future research.
Effectiveness of debt modification system in Korea
Authors: Lee Kye moon , Yi Junesuh
Published: July 2023

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of the debt modification system (DMS) in Korea. We find that DMS does have a positive effect in increasing the credit scores and annual income of DMS users. We also find that a debt management plan (DMP) is more effective in raising credit scores than personal rehabilitation (PR). However, the credit scores of DMS users in the first half of 2019 (551.1–626.1 points) are at a very low level, making it difficult to access low-interest unsecured loans from banks. Therefore, DMS in Kores is still insufficient to support the return of debt-ridden consumers to normal financial life and provide opportunities for a fresh start.
A hybrid model of implementing a smart production factory within the Industry 4.0 framework
Authors: Samani Armin , Saghafi Fatemeh
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to introduce the model of implementation to run the smart production factories. The study also aims to investigate the Industry 4.0 technologies as enablers to deal with challenges in the way of implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This contribution benefits from two teams of experts to evaluate the challenges and technologies of Industry 4.0. The Hanlon method is applied to evaluate, rank and prioritise the challenges which are initially scored by experts’ Team 1. Then, the adjacency matrix among enablers and challenges is extracted through the opinions of experts’ Team 2. The study also uses fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) to evaluate the real weights of technologies and challenges, rank and prioritise subsequently.

Findings

A total of 8 challenging obstacles and 24 key technologies have been evaluated. The findings reveals that recruit and retention of experienced managers, undefined return on investment and recruit and retention of multi-skilled workers are the most serious challenges in the way of implementing smart production factories. Furthermore, big data, IT-based management and Internet of Things are the top-ranked key enablers to face the challenges.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the pioneering studies that uses Hanlon method to evaluate industrial challenges. Integrating Hanlon method and FCM leads to a comprehensive model of evaluation and ranking which is another novelty of this contribution. Although many research studies have been released to implement the smart factories, practical model of implementation for production factories is identified as a literature gap.
Mapping the incidence of drug‐induced liver injury: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Min , Wang Yu , Lv Ting Ting , Liu Ji Min , Kong Yuan Yuan , Jia Ji Dong , Zhao Xin Yan
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) is an increasing etiology of liver dysfunction, with various incidence worldwide. To better understand the disease burden and establish appropriate preventive and treatment strategies, a systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies on the incidence of DILI published up to June 1, 2022. According to the predefined criteria, only population‐based studies were included. Incidence was presented as cases per 100 000 person‐years with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a random‐effects model.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included. The overall incidence of DILI was 4.94 per 100 000 person‐years (95% CI 4.05–5.83). Time‐based cumulative meta‐analysis suggested that the incidence of DILI increased over time since 2010. The incidence varied by regions, with Asia having the highest incidence of 17.82 per 100 000 person‐years (95% CI 6.26–29.38), while North America having the lowest incidence of 1.72 per 100 000 person‐years (95% CI 0.48–2.95). All studies reported a higher incidence of DILI in the elderly but comparable incidences between male and female (3.42 per 100 000 person‐years vs 4.64 per 100 000 person‐years).

Conclusions

The global incidence of DILI has been increasing since 2010, with the highest incidence in Asia. Understanding the epidemiological characteristics of DILI helps establish specific strategies to deal with this emerging health problems.
Phase II study of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with four cycles of dose‐dense MVAC followed by radical cystectomy in Korean patients with muscle‐invasive or locally advanced urothelial carcinoma of bladder
Authors: Park Kwonoh , Lee Hyun Jung , Kim Tae Un , Ryu Hwaseong , Ki Yong Kan , Hong Yun Jeong , Nam Jong Kil
Published: July 2023

Purpose

While previous retrospective or phase II studies in Western populations showed that dose‐dense methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (ddMVAC) as neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) was beneficial, no studies have been reported in Asian populations. This prospective phase II study aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of ddMVAC in Korean patients with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) or locally advanced urothelial cancer (UC).

Materials and Methods

Patients with MIBC (cT2–4aN0M0) or locally advanced UC (cTanyN1–3M0) eligible for radical cystectomy (RC) were enrolled prospectively. The participants were treated with four cycles of ddMVAC with pegfilgrastim every 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was pathologic response rate (≤ypT1N0). Secondary endpoints were pathologic complete response (pCR, ypT0N0), relapse‐free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and safety.

Results

Among 24 patients enrolled between December 2019 and August 2021, 23 were evaluable (52%, cT2–4aN0; 48%, cTanyN1–3). Eighteen patients (78%) completed four cycles of ddMVAC, while remaining five patients experienced early discontinuation. Dose modification (91%) and dose delay (70%) occurred, and the dose intensity of ddMVAC was 79%. Nineteen patients underwent RC and four patients declined. Of 19 patients who underwent RC, eight patients (42%) achieved ≤ypT1N0. With a median follow‐up of 22.8 months, the median RFS was 13.5 months (95% CI, not yet evaluable) and the median OS was 28.9 months (95% confidence interval, 19.9–37.9).

Conclusion

Our study showed substantial efficacy and safety of ddMVAC, even in patients with locally advanced UC. The ddMVAC still should be a promising option as NAC in Asian patients with UC.
Decreased DHA‐containing phospholipids in the neocortex of dementia with Lewy bodies are associated with soluble Aβ42, phosphorylated α‐synuclein, and synaptopathology
Authors: Chong Joyce R. , Chai Yuek Ling , Xing Huayang , Herr Deron R. , Wenk Markus R. , Francis Paul T. , Ballard Clive , Aarsland Dag , Silver David L. , Chen Christopher P. , Cazenave‐Gassiot Amaury , Lai Mitchell K. P.
Published: July 2023

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an essential omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid implicated in cognitive functions by promoting synaptic protein expression. While alterations of specific DHA‐containing phospholipids have been described in the neocortex of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the status of these lipids in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), known to manifest aggregated α‐synuclein‐containing Lewy bodies together with variable amyloid pathology, is unclear. In this study, post‐mortem samples from the parietal cortex of 25 DLB patients and 17 age‐matched controls were processed for phospholipidomics analyses using a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) platform. After controlling for false discovery rate, six out of the 46 identified putative DHA‐phospholipid species were significantly decreased in DLB, with only one showing increase. Altered putative DHA‐phospholipid species were subsequently validated with further LC–MS/MS measurements. Of the DHA‐containing phospholipid (DCP) species showing decreases, five negatively correlated with soluble beta‐amyloid (Aβ42) levels, whilst three also correlated with phosphorylated α‐synuclein (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, five of these phospholipid species correlated with deficits of presynaptic Rab3A, postsynaptic neurogranin, or both (all p < 0.05). Finally, we found altered immunoreactivities of brain lysolipid DHA transporter, MFSD2A, and the fatty acid binding protein FABP5 in DLB parietal cortex. In summary, we report alterations of specific DCP species in DLB, as well as their associations with markers of neuropathological burden and synaptopathology. These results support the potential role of DHA perturbations in DLB as well as therapeutic targets.
Floral nectar production: what cost to a plant?
Authors: Pyke Graham H. , Ren Zong‐Xin
Published: July 2023

Floral nectar production is central to plant pollination, and hence to human wellbeing. As floral nectar is essentially a solution in water of various sugars, it is likely a valuable plant resource, especially in terms of energy, with plants experiencing costs/trade‐offs associated with its production or absorption and adopting mechanisms to regulate nectar in flowers. Possible costs of nectar production may also influence the evolution of nectar volume, concentration and composition, of pollination syndromes involving floral nectar, and the production of some crops.

There has been frequent agreement that costs of floral nectar production are significant, but relevant evidence is scant and difficult to interpret. Convincing direct evidence comes from experimental studies that relate either enhanced nectar sugar production (through repeated nectar removal) to reduced ability to produce seeds, or increased sugar availability (through absorption of additional artificial nectar) to increased seed production. Proportions of available photosynthate allocated by plants to nectar production may also indicate nectar cost. However, such studies are rare, some do not include treatments of all (or almost all) flowers per plant, and all lack quantitative cost–benefit comparisons for nectar production. Additional circumstantial evidence of nectar cost is difficult to interpret and largely equivocal.

Future research should repeat direct experimental approaches that relate reduced or enhanced nectar sugar availability for a plant with consequent ability to produce seeds. To avoid confounding effects of inter‐flower resource transfer, each plant should experience a single treatment, with treatment of all or almost all flowers per plant. Resource allocation by plants, pathways used for resource transfer, and the locations of resource sources and sinks should also be investigated.

Future research should also consider extension of nectar cost into other areas of biology. For example, evolutionary models of nectar production are rare but should be possible if plant fitness gains and costs associated with nectar production are expressed in the same currency, such as energy. It should then be possible to understand observed nectar production for different plant species and pollination syndromes involving floral nectar. In addition, potential economic benefits should be possible to assess if relationships between nectar production and crop value are evaluated.
Oral health‐related stigma: Describing and defining a ubiquitous phenomenon
Authors: Doughty J. , Macdonald M. E. , Muirhead V. , Freeman R.
Published: July 2023

This paper is the fourth of a series of narrative reviews to critically rethink underexplored concepts in oral health research. The series commenced with an initial commissioned framework of Inclusion Oral Health, which spawned further exploration into the social forces that undergird social exclusion and othering. The second review challenged unidimensional interpretations of the causes of inequality by bringing intersectionality theory to oral health. The third exposed how language, specifically labels, can perpetuate and (re)produce vulnerability by eclipsing the agency and power of vulnerabilised populations. In this fourth review, we revisit othering, depicted in the concept of stigma. We specifically define and conceptualize oral health‐related stigma, bringing together prior work on stigma to advance the robustness and utility of this theory for oral health research.
Collective memory, martyrdom monument, and Christian‐Muslim reconciliation in Seko, North Luwu, Indonesia
Authors: Rumbi Frans Paillin , Palari Yoel Brian , Rando Anugerah Agustus
Published: July 2023

This study explores the collective memory of the DI/TII (Darul Islam/The Indonesian Islamic Army) case between 1951 and 1965, the martyrdom monument, and Christian‐Muslim reconciliation in Seko, Nort Luwu, and South Sulawesi. The monument portrays the interaction between Christians and Muslims during times of conflict and pushes society to construct a better developed civilization. Data collection is conducted using a qualitative approach. We adopt a bottom‐up approach, conducting interviews with perpetrators, their descendants, and the monument's creator. The aims of this study were (a) to analyze the collective memory of the Seko people about the DI/TII incident, (b) to find out why Christians in Seko erected a monument to the martyrs, and (c) to seek reconciliation between Christians and Muslims in Seko. We argue that the Seko community's use of sallombengang‐‐a philosophy promoting harmony and peace despite diversity‐‐can deter Seko parties from pursuing confrontation between Christians and Muslims.
Diversity and specialization responses to climate and land use differ between deadwood fungi and bacteria
Authors: Englmeier Jana , Rieker Daniel , Mitesser Oliver , Benjamin Caryl , Fricke Ute , Ganuza Cristina , Haensel Maria , Kellner Harald , Lorz Janina , Redlich Sarah , Riebl Rebekka , Rojas‐Botero Sandra , Rummler Thomas , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf , Stengel Elisa , Tobisch Cynthia , Uhler Johannes , Uphus Lars , Zhang Jie , Müller Jörg , Bässler Claus
Published: July 2023

Climate and land use are major determinants of biodiversity, and declines in species richness in cold and human exploited landscapes can be caused by lower rates of biotic interactions. Deadwood fungi and bacteria interact strongly with their hosts due to long‐lasting evolutionary trajectories. However, how rates of biotic interactions (specialization) change with temperature and land‐use intensity are unknown for both microbial groups. We hypothesize a decrease in species richness and specialization of communities with decreasing temperature and increasing land use intensity while controlling for precipitation. We used a full‐factorial nested design to disentangle land use at habitat and landscape scale and temperature spanning an area of 300 × 300 km in Germany. We exposed four deadwood objects representing the main tree species in Central Europe (beech, oak, spruce, pine) in 175 study plots. Overall, we found that fungal and bacterial richness, community composition and specialization were weakly related to temperature and land use. Fungal richness was slightly higher in near‐natural than in urban landscapes. Bacterial richness was positively associated with mean annual temperature, negatively associated with local temperature and highest in grassland habitats. Bacterial richness was positively related to the covariate mean annual precipitation. We found strong effects of host‐tree identity on species richness and community composition. A generally high level of fungal host‐tree specialization might explain the weak response to temperature and land use. Effects of host‐tree identity and specialization were more pronounced in fungi. We suggest that host tree changes caused by land use and climate change will be more important for fungal communities, while changes in climate will affect bacterial communities more directly. Contrasting responses of the two taxonomic groups suggest a reorganization of deadwood microbial communities, which might have further consequences on diversity and decomposition in the Anthropocene.
Different time scales of common‐cause evidence shape multisensory integration, recalibration and motor adaptation
Authors: Debats Nienke B. , Heuer Herbert , Kayser Christoph
Published: July 2023

Perceptual coherence in the face of discrepant multisensory signals is achieved via the processes of multisensory integration, recalibration and sometimes motor adaptation. These supposedly operate on different time scales, with integration reducing immediate sensory discrepancies and recalibration and motor adaptation reflecting the cumulative influence of their recent history. Importantly, whether discrepant signals are bound during perception is guided by the brains' inference of whether they originate from a common cause. When combined, these two notions lead to the hypothesis that the time scales on which integration and recalibration (or motor adaptation) operate are associated with different time scales of evidence about a common cause underlying two signals. We tested this prediction in a well‐established visuo‐motor paradigm, in which human participants performed visually guided hand movements. The kinematic correlation between hand and cursor movements indicates their common origin, which allowed us to manipulate the common‐cause evidence by titrating this correlation. Specifically, we dissociated hand and cursor signals during individual movements while preserving their correlation across the series of movement endpoints. Following our hypothesis, this manipulation reduced integration compared with a condition in which visual and proprioceptive signals were perfectly correlated. In contrast, recalibration and motor adaption were not affected by this manipulation. This supports the notion that multisensory integration and recalibration deal with sensory discrepancies on different time scales guided by common‐cause evidence: Integration is prompted by local common‐cause evidence and reduces immediate discrepancies, whereas recalibration and motor adaptation are prompted by global common‐cause evidence and reduce persistent discrepancies.
Ultrasound‐guided perineural injection of the tibial nerve in the horse versus a ‘blind’ technique
Authors: Bellitto Nicholas A. , Voute Lance , Reardon Richard , Withers Jonathan M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Tibial perineural analgesia has often been reported to fail to achieve nerve desensitisation in horses. Ultrasound‐guided (US‐guided) techniques have recently been described to improve tibial perineural desensitisation.

Objectives

To compare US‐guided and ‘blind’ tibial perineural analgesia techniques in lameness investigation.

Study design

Randomised clinical trial.

Methods

Horses presenting for lameness investigation, which required tibial perineural analgesia, were randomly assigned either to a US‐guided or blind injection group. The efficacy of perineural analgesia was assessed by testing the loss of skin sensation at the medial and lateral heel bulbs. Skin sensation was assessed, prior to injection and then at four intervals post‐injection (10–15, 20–25, 30–35 and 40–45 min) using a hand‐held digital algometer with a 1 mm diameter pin; a value of 25 N was defined as indicative of skin desensitisation. The time taken to perform each injection technique and any adverse reactions were recorded. Summary statistics were performed to examine differences between groups. The frequency of skin desensitisation was compared between groups using a Fisher's exact test and the length of time taken to perform injections was compared using a Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Sixteen US‐guided and 11 blind injections were included in the study. All cases undergoing US‐guided injection lost skin sensation, whereas this occurred in only one case receiving the blind injection. The US‐guided group had a significantly higher probability of skin sensation loss (p < 0.001), although the injection technique took significantly longer to complete compared to the blind group (p < 0.001). No adverse reactions were noted with either perineural injection technique.

Main limitations

Limited number of cases for each injection group.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that US‐guided tibial perineural injection is more likely to result in adequate and prompt tibial perineural analgesia compared to the blind injection technique, although it takes longer to complete.
Congenital kyphoscoliosis associated with thoracic hemivertebrae in a 9‐month‐old Racking filly
Authors: Ghasemi Samaneh , Sadeghi Balajorshari Mohammad Ali , Mirshahi Ali , Kiakojoori Mojtaba
Published: July 2023

Thoracic hemivertebra is a rare congenital vertebral malformations in horses resulting in vertebral column deformity with or without neurological signs. A 9‐month‐old Racking filly was presented with a distinct lump over the back region. This lump was apparent at birth and had been increasing in size. Clinical examination revealed painless kyphoscoliosis over the thoracic vertebrae with mild hindlimb ataxia and gait abnormality. Plain radiographs of the vertebral column showed 13th–16th thoracic hemivertebrae. Myelography was performed under general anaesthesia. The ventral and dorsal aspects of the contrast medium column were narrowed at the level of the 13th–14th thoracic hemivertebrae. The contrast medium was not seen caudally, suggesting spinal cord compression. Little information about hemivertebra in horses exists, and a better understanding of hemivertebra aetiology is required.
Data‐driven estimation of nitric oxide emissions from global soils based on dominant vegetation covers
Authors: Tian Xingshuai , Yin Yulong , He Kai , Qiu Ruonan , Cong Jiahui , Wang Zihan , Yu Huitong , Chen Zhong , Chu Yiyan , Ying Hao , Cui Zhenling
Published: July 2023

Soils are a major source of global nitric oxide (NO) emissions. However, estimates of soil NO emissions have large uncertainties due to limited observations and multifactorial impacts. Here, we mapped global soil NO emissions, integrating 1356 in‐situ NO observations from globally distributed sites with high‐resolution climate, soil, and management practice data. We then calculated global and national total NO budgets and revealed the contributions of cropland, grassland, and forest to global soil NO emissions at the national level. The results showed that soil NO emissions were explained mainly by N input, water input and soil pH. Total above‐soil NO emissions of the three vegetation cover types were 9.4 Tg N year−1 in 2014, including 5.9 Tg N year−1 (1.04, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.09–1.99 kg N ha−1 year−1) emitted from forest, 1.7 Tg N year−1 (0.68, 95% CI: 0.10–1.26 kg N ha−1 year−1) from grassland, and 1.8 Tg N year−1 (0.98, 95% CI: 0.42–1.53 kg N ha−1 year−1) from cropland. Soil NO emissions in approximately 57% of 213 countries surveyed were dominated by forests. Our results provide updated inventories of global and national soil NO emissions based on robust data‐driven models. These estimates are critical to guiding the mitigation of soil NO emissions and can be used in combination with biogeochemical models.
Functional characterisation of Fe (II) and 2OG‐dependent dioxygenase TcALKBH4 in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Yu Runnan , Zhang Wenjing , Li Yanxiao , Tang Jing , Kim KumChol , Li Bin
Published: July 2023

Alpha‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase ALKB homologue 4 (ALKBH4) is a member of the Fe (II) and 2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent ALKB homologue family that plays important roles in epigenetic regulation by alkyl lesions removal in mammals. However, the roles of ALKBH4 in insects are not clear. Here, TcALKBH4 was cloned and functionally characterised in Tribolium castaneum. Temporal expression revealed that TcALKBH4 was highly expressed in early embryos and early pupae. Spatial expression showed that TcALKBH4 was highly expressed in the adult testis, and followed by the ovary. RNA interference targeting TcALKBH4 at different developmental stages in T. castaneum led to apparent phenotypes including the failure of development in larvae, the reduction of food intake and the deficiency of fertility in adult. However, further dot blot analyses showed that TcALKBH4 RNAi does not seem to influence 6 mA levels in vivo. qRT‐PCR was used to further explore the underlying molecular mechanisms; the result showed that TcALKBH4 mediates the development of larvae possibly through 20E signalling pathway, and the fertility of female and male adult might be regulated by the expression of vitellogenesis and JH signalling pathway, respectively. Altogether, these findings will provide new insights into the potential function of ALKBH4 in insects.
Association of uncontrolled blood pressure in apparent treatment‐resistant hypertension with increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events plus
Authors: Bakris George , Chen Cindy , Campbell Alicia K. , Ashton Veronica , Haskell Lloyd , Singhal Mukul
Published: July 2023

Patients with apparent treatment‐resistant hypertension (aTRH) are at increased risk of end‐organ damage and cardiovascular events. Little is known about the effects of blood pressure (BP) control in this population. Using a national claims database integrated with electronic medical records, the authors evaluated the relationships between uncontrolled BP (UBP; ≥130/80 mmHg) or controlled BP (CBP; <130/80 mmHg) and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events plus (MACE+; stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure requiring hospitalization) and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) in adult patients with aTRH (taking ≥3 antihypertensive medication classes concurrently within 30 days between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2021). MACE+ components were also evaluated separately. Multivariable regression models were used to adjust for baseline differences in demographic and clinical characteristics, and sensitivity analyses using CBP <140/90 mmHg were conducted. Patients with UBP (n = 22 333) were younger and had fewer comorbidities at baseline than those with CBP (n = 11 427). In the primary analysis, which adjusted for these baseline differences, UBP versus CBP patients were at an 8% increased risk of MACE+ (driven by a 31% increased risk of stroke) and a 53% increased risk of ESRD after 2.7 years of follow‐up. Greater MACE+ (22%) and ESRD (98%) risk increases with UBP versus CBP were seen in the sensitivity analysis. These real‐world data showed an association between suboptimal BP control in patients with aTRH and higher incidence of MACE+ and ESRD linked with UBP despite the use of multidrug regimens. Thus, there remains a need for improved aTRH management.
Association of tooth count with cognitive decline and dementia in the Finnish adult population
Authors: Asher Sam , Suominen Anna Liisa , Stephen Ruth , Ngandu Tiia , Koskinen Seppo , Solomon Alina
Published: July 2023

Aim

To evaluate whether tooth loss is associated with cognitive decline and incident dementia.

Materials and Methods

We analysed data from the Finnish population‐based Health 2000 and follow‐up Health 2011 surveys (participants aged ≥30 years and without dementia at baseline; N = 5506 at baseline and 3426 at 11‐year follow‐up). Dementia diagnoses until 2015 were ascertained from national registers (N = 5542). Tooth count was dichotomized as adequate (≥20) versus tooth loss (<20). Tooth loss was further stratified into 10–19 teeth, 1–9 teeth and edentulism. Upper and lower jaws were also considered separately. Baseline cognitive test scores were dichotomized by median as high versus low, and 11‐year change as decline versus no decline.

Results

Tooth loss (<20) was associated with lower baseline overall cognition (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03–1.43), 11‐year cognitive decline (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.05–1.70) and higher 15‐year dementia risk (hazard ratio = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.15–2.02) after adjusting for multiple confounders. After adjustment for dentures, associations became non‐significant, except for 10–19 teeth remaining and dementia. Results were similar after considering reverse causality bias; however, 10–19 teeth remaining was significantly associated with 11‐year cognitive decline even after adjustment for dentures. No jaw‐specific differences were observed.

Conclusions

Tooth loss adversely impacts the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. The role of dentures should be further explored.
Creating a hybrid smile design workflow: The analog brain drives the digital technology
Authors: Bassett Joyce , Kois John C.
Published: July 2023

Objective

This article will explain and demonstrate the application of analog smile design techniques and concepts as a precursor for digital smile design implementation. The application of these techniques will be described with two case presentations that will demonstrate the incorporation of these analog methods into digital smile design programs.

Clinical Considerations

Digital smile design workflows can be more efficient and require less chair time but must be based on an understanding and application of basic smile design principles to apply the digital techniques successfully.

Conclusions

The application of basic smile design techniques to digital workflows resulted in excellent clinical outcomes for both a localized treatment plan and a full mouth restorative rehabilitation.

Clinical Significance

Digital smile design is quickly being adopted into dental practices. However, the digital design must be created by the clinician and be based on a thorough understanding of basic esthetic and restorative principles to achieve predictable successful clinical outcomes.
Non‐invasive surveys to assess animal burrows as potential causes of levee instability
Authors: Pennisi Valeria , Musumeci Rosaria Ester , Grasso Rosario , Ferraro Antonio , Foti Enrico
Published: July 2023

Animal activities threaten levee stability, especially during flood events, increasing levee failure risk. Indeed, while dens alter hydraulically‐induced failure mechanisms, it is difficult to locate them and to know in advance if critical conditions may be reached. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to perform nondestructive surveys to assess the risk of burrow animal activities in levee systems using a ground penetrating radar (GPR) for effective levee structure control, being GPR a nondestructive, expeditious, and cost‐effective geophysical technique. Here, a flood‐prone area in Sicily, where traditional hydraulic phenomena did not justify past levee failure events, is considered a case study. Through a visual inspection survey, several animal holes were recovered. GPR measurements allowed us to explore the levee interior and to detect the presence, distribution, and configuration of dens inside them. It was found that a complex burrow system crosses the entire embankment. Porcupine was recognized as a builder of such cavities. Although, previous studies established the porcupine presence in semi‐humid environments, for the first time, here we provide evidence of the development, articulation, and extension of porcupine burrows inside the levee system.
Recycling plastics from e‐waste: Implications for effective eco‐design
Authors: Fenwick Ceri , Mayers Kieren , Lee Jacquetta , Murphy Richard
Published: July 2023

This paper presents five case studies on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) recycling to provide a coherent overview on the likely impact of eco‐design measures on recycling of plastics used in energy‐related products within the EU. Whilst some eco‐design measures, such as improving disassembly of plastic parts, may generally benefit recycling operations, other measures were found to be ineffective or requiring further investigation. For example, product polymer marking, and provision of product‐specific information was rarely utilized by participant organizations, if at all. Additionally, this study highlights a disconnect between the aims of substance bans as an eco‐design measure and the impact upon plastics recycling in practice. Future research could help with quantitative and/or statistical analysis of WEEE processing to investigate across a wider selection of recyclers and recycling processes. Despite 20 years of research on eco‐design, it appears that EU eco‐design policies and voluntary initiatives are still being devised without adequate understanding of their impact on different types of recycling practices. Empirical research on recycling processes can provide important insight to ensure eco‐design measures are effective and avoid unintended consequences for the environment.
Federal telehealth policy changes during the COVID‐19 public health emergency: Associations with telemental health use among rural and urban Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Talbot Jean A. , Burgess Amanda R. , Jonk Yvonne C. , O'Connor Heidi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The COVID‐19 public health emergency (PHE) led to increased mental health (MH) concerns among Medicare beneficiaries while inhibiting their access to MH services (MHS). To help address these problems, the federal government introduced temporary flexibilities permitting broader telehealth use in Medicare. This study compared rural versus urban patterns of change in telemental health (TMH) use among adult MHS users in fee‐for‐service Medicare from 2019 to 2020, when PHE‐related telehealth expansions were enacted.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional investigation based on 2019–2020 Medicare claims data, we used chi‐square tests, t‐tests and adjusted logistic regression to explore how year (pre‐PHE vs. PHE), rurality, and beneficiary characteristics were related to TMH use.

Findings

From 2019 to 2020, the proportion of MHS users who used TMH rose from 4.8% to 51.9% among rural residents (p < 0.0001) and from 1.1% to 61.3% (p < 0.0001) among urban residents. Across study years, adjusted odds of TMH use grew more than 18‐fold for rural MHS users (OR = 18.10, p < 0.001) and nearly 120‐fold for their urban counterparts (OR = 119.75, p < 0.001). Among rural MHS users in 2020, adjusted odds of TMH use diminished with increasing age.

Conclusions

TMH mitigated PHE‐related barriers to MHS access for rural and urban beneficiaries, but urban residents benefited disproportionately. Among rural beneficiaries, older age was related to lower TMH use. To avoid reinforcing existing MHS access disparities, policies must address factors limiting TMH use among rural beneficiaries, especially those over 75 and those from historically underserved communities.