bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How does intellectual capital drive firm performance via dynamic capabilities: evidence from India
Authors: Singh Bindu , Verma Pratibha
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study examines how intellectual capital (IC) drives firm performance via the lens of dynamic capabilities (DCs). Drawing on resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capability view (DCV), the authors elaborate the mediating role of learning, integration and reconfiguration DC in the Indian banking context.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 358 top- and middle-level managers from the Indian banking sector was administered with structured questionnaires for data collection. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and Sobel test were used to analyze the data and test the hypothesized mediating effect.

Findings

The findings reveal that learning and integration DCs are key mediators in IC and banks' performance relationships in an emerging economy context. In contrast, the analysis revealed partial mediating role of reconfiguration DC. Furthermore, the learning DC has been identified as the primary mediating mechanism for transforming bank's IC into performance benefits.

Practical implications

This study provides an important implication for the IC and DC link by empirically developing and validating a model in the Indian banking sector and making a several contributions to the related literature. This sector needs to incorporate and strengthen their IC and DCs to attain enhanced performance in today's dynamic environment. Bank managers can use these findings to bring their knowledge-related activities to channelize specific DCs to transform banks' IC when seeking to improve overall performance. Theoretically, this study extends previous research by outlining a set of organizational elements that tend to influence firm performances with the help of IC, learning, integration and reconfigurations DCs.

Originality/value

Although several studies have investigated the links between IC, DC and firm performance, studies on emerging economies are scarce. This study is one of the most in-depth investigations of the relationship between IC, learning, integration and reconfiguration DCs and firm performance in an integrated framework, with a particular focus on the banking sector of an emerging economy.
Motives underlying the intentions of youth to get involved in bribery: evidence from Lithuania
Authors: Morkūnas Mangirdas , Janavicius Julius , Volkov Artiom
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper embarks on revealing the main factors behind the intentions of youth in Lithuania to get involved in bribery.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey of 432 respondents served as a source of primary data. The structural equation modelling – partial least squares techniques was employed as a main research tool.

Findings

It was revealed that youth in Lithuania display a high value congruity with their counterparts in Western Europe and a relatively reluctant to offer bribes. It can be stated that youths’ positive attitude towards some shadow economy activities is a forced response to government failures, rather than an intrinsic motivation created by cultural legacy or psychological issues.

Originality/value

It is one of the first scientific attempt to investigate reasons behind the formation of the positive attitude towards bribery and intentions to get involved in bribery among the youth.
Intra-family communication in challenging times and family business: a perspective article
Authors: Boz Semerci Anil
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This perspective article highlights the importance of future research that explores how intra-family communication in family businesses was affected during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a literature review of current perspectives on the role of informal communication in family businesses. The author offers some research insight into contributing to redirect the study of informal intra-family communication in family businesses.

Findings

The COVID-19 pandemic and its consequential effects have presented a series of challenges that possess the capacity to affect communication in any business. Nevertheless, these challenges in informal communication within family members hold a particular relevance for family businesses and require a reassessment of the fundamental assumptions that serve as the basis for research in challenging times.

Originality/value

This paper synthesizes the existing research on informal communication in the family business context and proposes some key research opportunities.
Machiavellianism and affective commitment as predictors of unethical pro-organization behavior: exploring the moderating role of moral disengagement
Authors: Sarwar Zahid , Song Zhihong
Published: December 2023

Purpose

A growing number of organizational scandals, including Apple slowing old devices to increase the sales of new ones, and research on unethical pro-organization behaviors (UPBs) have heightened the need to explore the phenomenon. Extending the current understanding, the study's major purpose is to investigate individual-level factors that may shape their willingness to engage in UPBs. It also inquires whether moral disengagement processes influence this association.

Design/methodology/approach

After testing the reliability and validity of the latent constructs and ensuring common method bias did not contaminate the data, the study used the PLS-SEM approach to analyze the primary data collected from 408 full-time Pakistani employees.

Findings

Results add to the current understanding by revealing that individual-level dark factor Machiavellianism (MACH) significantly influences employees' willingness to engage in UPBs. Accordingly, affective commitment is another individual-level factor that encourages employees to be a part of UPBs. Lastly, results unveil that employees with a higher moral disengagement are more prone to engage in UPBs.

Research limitations/implications

The study measured employees' willingness or intentions to engage in UPBs, not their actual involvement.

Practical implications

Results clarify to the top management that individuals high on MACH, affective commitment and moral disengagement are more prone to be involved in UPBs.

Originality/value

This study is among the preliminary ones that assess the direct associations between MACH, affective commitment, and UPBs, especially in the Pakistani context. Moreover, exploring the moderating role of moral disengagement between the above associations is also an under-researched phenomenon.
Clinicopathologic and trichoscopic features of keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans: A case series study
Authors: Lan Xuemei , Qiao Rui , Sun Jianfang , Song Hao , Gao Meng , Mo Ran , Song Zhongya , Yang Yong , Jiang Yiqun
Published: December 2023

Keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans (KFSD) is a rare X‐linked hereditary disorder characterized by the triad of follicular hyperkeratosis‐photophobia‐alopecia. The clinical heterogeneity makes the diagnosis difficult. To investigate the clinicopathologic and trichoscopic features of KFSD and to further clarify the essential requisites for the diagnosis, we conducted a retrospective study of patients with KFSD. The clinical information, histologic features, and trichoscopic findings were evaluated. Eight patients were from seven separate families. Two females were mother and daughter from the same family and the other six patients were male and represented sporadic cases. The average age of onset of alopecia was 21.25 years. Involvement of the scalp hairs leading to progressive scarring alopecia on the midline of the scalp with variable degrees of inflammation was the pathognomonic feature. It typically began after puberty. Vellus hair–associated follicular hyperkeratosis affected all of the patients. However, photophobia was not a constant feature. Histopathologic examination revealed disorders of the hair follicle with an acute‐chronic inflammatory response. Follicular changes including fused infundibulum, the protrusion of the outer root sheath into the follicular canal, and a dilatation of the follicles at the isthmus level caused by the occlusion of keratin were observed. The trichoscopic features included perifollicular scaling, tufted hairs, and loss of follicular openings. In conclusion, terminal hair involvement, either scalp hairs, eyebrows, or eyelashes, and the hyperkeratosis of the follicle of vellus hairs is the diagnostic basis of KFSD. We hypothesize that follicular changes in histopathology are the primary event that trigger variable inflammation and further follicular destruction.
Laboratory experiments and theoretical study of pressure and fluid influences on acoustic response in tight rocks with pore microstructure
Authors: He Yan‐Xiao , Wang Shangxu , Li Hongbing , Dai Xiaofeng , Tang Genyang , Sun Chao , Yuan Sanyi , Yin Hanjun , Zhang Jialiang , Shi Peidong , Zhang Huiqing , Wei Pengpeng
Published: December 2023

Wave‐induced fluid flow is considered to be a major source of seismic attenuation and dispersion in porous rocks. From the physical description of partially saturated reservoirs, numerous analytical solutions based on upscaling homogenization theories have been employed to calculate equivalent frequency‐dependent poroelastic media. Nevertheless, dispersion and attenuation predictions are often not reasonably consistent with laboratory and field measurements in a broad frequency range, particularly due to influences of biphasic fluids and their distribution, presence of heterogeneities on various length scales, and pore microstructure. We investigate the role of pore microstructure on pressure and fluid saturation dependence of elastic velocities in tight sandstones. Previous work points out that differentiating the impacts of heterogeneities at various scales on dispersion within seismic exploration and sonic frequencies can be very difficult. In practice, this is because fluid‐related dispersion mechanisms are impossible to be independent. Thus, it is important for a theoretical and more quantitative analysis of the relative contribution of interrelated energy dissipation processes through a better understanding of combined influences due to the presence of microscopic and mesoscopic heterogeneities. Based on microscopic squirt flow and mesoscopic flow in a partially saturated medium, we develop a poroelastic model that allows evaluating the overall frequency‐dependent dispersion via considering a random distribution of fluid heterogeneities as well as the broadly distributed aspect ratio of compliant pores. Experimental validation of the model is accomplished via a comprehensive comparison of predictions with measurements of partially saturated velocities versus pressure and fluid for sandstones with specific pore microstructures.
Electroseismic Scholte‐wave analysis: A potential method for estimating shear‐wave velocity structure of shallow‐water seabed sediments
Authors: Zheng Xu‐Zhen , Shi Caiwang , Ren Hengxin , He Zhanxiang , Huang Qinghua , Chen Xiaofei
Published: December 2023

The potential application of conducting Scholte‐wave analysis using electroseismic pressure fields excited by an electric current source due to the electrokinetic effect in fluid‐saturated porous seabed sediments is investigated. First, we develop a numerical modelling algorithm by combining the Luco–Apsel–Chen generalized reflection and transmission method with the peak‐trough averaging method to simulate the electroseismic wave fields in stratified fluid/porous media. The modelling results show that the electroseismic pressure signals recorded on the seafloor are mainly composed of evanescent electroseismic waves, and Scholte waves are the dominant wave pattern. Their amplitudes are generally within the order of magnitudes capable of being detected by current seismic instruments. Then, the modified frequency–Bessel transform method is extended to extract the Scholte‐wave dispersion curves from electroseismic pressure fields. Results demonstrate that Scholte‐wave dispersion curves extracted from electroseismic records are superior to those extracted from conventional seismic wave fields excited by an airgun source under the same source–receiver geometry because they contain many overtones and are almost free from the interferences of dispersive guided waves. Furthermore, the Scholte‐wave dispersion inversion results obtained by employing the Levenberg–Marquardt method show that the shear‐wave velocity model inverted by Scholte‐wave dispersion curves extracted from the electroseismic pressure field is more accurate than those obtained by dispersion curves extracted from the seismic wave fields with the guided‐wave removal. The above results indicate that the electroseismic Scholte‐wave analysis method has the potential to evaluate the shear‐wave velocities of shallow‐water seabed sediments.
US Republicans and the New Fusionism
Authors: Ashbee Edward , Waddan Alex
Published: December 2023

US Republicanism and conservatism were structured around ‘fusionism’ from the 1950s onwards. Disparate ideas and interests were ‘fused’ in a broad coalitional bloc that was based upon a commitment to free markets, moral or cultural traditionalism and a commitment to US national security, as well as global power projection. There have, however, been significant shifts in recent years as many Republicans have turned against the larger corporations which appear to have little loyalty to the US heartland and are, it is said, guilty of embracing ‘woke’ ideology: that ideology has become the focus of cultural conservatism, with wedge issues such as trans‐rights a constant theme. In addition, many Republicans have either embraced or acquiesced in, a conspiracist sub‐culture. If foreign policy is considered, national security has been redefined in more restricted and overtly realist terms. Consequently, there has been a repudiation of earlier neoconservative efforts to spread market democracy. All these strands of thought are tied together by an impatience of, or at times disdain for, the checks and balances that define US political processes. Political actors across almost all sections of the right, but most notably candidates for federal office, have had to restructure their platforms and subscribe to these reconfigurations of Republican thinking and the ‘new fusionism’. Although these ideas have a ‘thin’ character, they represent a significant shift away from the thinking of figures such as former House Speaker, Paul Ryan, Mitt Romney and George W. Bush, who defined conservatism and Republicanism just a few years ago. For the most part, their efforts to roll back federal government entitlement programmes such as Medicare, and create a much leaner state, have been abandoned. The article argues that the new fusionism is becoming increasingly embedded and therefore marks a long‐run shift in Republican thinking that is likely to endure, regardless of Donald Trump's political fortunes.
Universality: A Battleground for UK Public Service Media in the Platform Age
Authors: Martin Dan , Johnson Catherine
Published: December 2023

This article examines how UK policy makers are redefining the value of universality in the transition from public service broadcasting (PSB) to public service media (PSM). Over the past decade, the UK's media landscape has undergone a significant transformation, driven by the economic, infrastructural and social influence exerted by global platforms. These transforming conditions have profoundly complicated the relationship between PSM and the principle of universality—in particular, the core values of universal access and universal appeal—with potential consequences for the broader legitimacy of the future public service mission. In an age of apparent media abundance, the question of how PSM can effectively reach and engage its audience remains a persistent inquiry. Presenting findings from an analysis of key and contemporary media policy and regulatory documents, this article demonstrates how universality has become a key battleground in current debates around the future of PSM.
Mistakenly misinformed or intentionally deceived? Mis‐ and Disinformation perceptions on the Russian War in Ukraine among citizens in 19 countries
Authors: HAMELEERS MICHAEL , TULIN MARINA , DE VREESE CLAES , AALBERG TORIL , VAN AELST PETER , CARDENAL ANA SOFIA , CORBU NICOLETA , VAN ERKEL PATRICK , ESSER FRANK , GEHLE LUISA , HALAGIERA DENIS , HOPMANN DAVID , KOC‐MICHALSKA KAROLINA , MATTHES JÖRG , MELTZER CHRISTINE , MIHELJ SABINA , SCHEMER CHRISTIAN , SHEAFER TAMIR , SPLENDORE SERGIO , STANYR JAMES , STEPINSKA AGNIESZKA , STETKA VACLAV , STRÖMBÄCK JESPER , TERREN LUDOVIC , THEOCHARIS YANNIS , ZOIZNER ALON
Published: December 2023

In information environments characterized by institutional distrust, fragmentation and the widespread dissemination of conspiracies and disinformation, citizens perceive misinformation as a salient and threatening issue. Especially amidst disruptive events and crises, news users are likely to believe that information is inaccurate or deceptive. Using an original 19‐country comparative survey study across diverse regions in the world (N = 19,037), we find that news users are likely to regard information on the Russian war in Ukraine as false. They are more likely to attribute false information to deliberative deception than to a lack of access to the war area or inaccurate expert knowledge. Russian sources are substantially more likely to be blamed for falsehoods than Ukrainian or Western sources – but these attribution biases depend on a country's position on the war. Our findings reveal that people mostly believe that falsehoods are intended to deceive them, and selectively associate misinformation with the opposed camp.
Occupational Licensing and Minority Participation in Professional Labor Markets
Authors: SUTHERLAND ANDREW G. , UCKERT MATTHIAS , VETTER FELIX W.
Published: December 2023

We examine the staggered adoption of additional educational requirements (“150‐hour rule”) for Certified Public Accountants (“CPAs”) to understand the effects of occupational licensing on minority participation in professional labor markets. The 150‐hour rule increased the educational requirement for CPAs from 120 to 150 credit hours, effectively adding a fifth year of study. We find a 13% greater entry decline following the requirement's enactment for minority than nonminority CPA candidates. Our analyses of parental income and financial aid availability point to a socioeconomic status channel explaining the differential entry declines. Studying exam passing patterns, professional misconduct, and job postings we find a deterioration, or at best, no change in CPA quality following enactment.
Tumor‐related exosomal circ_0001715 promotes lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation and metastasis via enhancing M2 macrophage polarization by regulating triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐2
Authors: Chen Mengjun , Cao Chengzhang , Ma Jun
Published: December 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been shown to mediate tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) to regulate the development of many cancers, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, whether circ_0001715 regulates LUAD progression by mediating TAMs polarization remains uncertain.

Methods

Monocytes (THP‐1) were treated with PMA to induce M0 macrophages. M0 macrophages were incubated with LUAD cells‐derived exosomes and then cocultured with LUAD cells. The levels of circ_0001715, M2 macrophage markers, microRNA (miR)‐205‐5p, and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐2 (TREM2) were examined using quantitative real‐time PCR. Flow cytometry was performed to assess M2 macrophage surface marker CD206. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were determined using cell counting kit 8, EdU, colony formation and transwell assays. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was used to investigate the interactions between miR‐205‐5p and circ_0001715 or TREM2.

Results

Circ_0001715 knockdown inhibited M2 macrophage polarization and its overexpression had an opposite effect. After M0 macrophages transfected with si‐circ_0001715 were cocultured with LUAD cells, the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD cells were markedly reduced. Exosomes transferred circ_0001715 between M0 macrophages and LUAD cells. Exosomal circ_0001715 promoted M2 macrophage polarization to increase LUAD cell proliferation and metastasis. In terms of mechanism, circ_0001715 sponged miR‐205‐5p to positively regulate TREM2. TREM2 upregulation also could promote LUAD cell proliferation and metastasis via increasing M2 macrophage polarization. In addition, TREM2 knockdown reversed the effect of exosomal circ_0001715 on M2 macrophage polarization and LUAD cell progression.

Conclusion

Exosomal circ_0001715 led to LUAD cell proliferation and metastasis by promoting M2 macrophage polarization via the miR‐205‐5p/TREM2 axis.
Management accountants with a growth mindset and changes in the design of costing systems: The role of organisational culture
Authors: Pavlatos Odysseas , Ioakimidis Marilou
Published: December 2023

Based on implicit person theories, this paper investigates the relationship between the growth mindset of management accountants and changes in the design of costing systems, as well as the role that organisational culture plays in this relationship. Using survey data from 146 management accountants of manufacturing companies, we find that management accountants who have a growth mindset increase the complexity, inconclusiveness, and functionality of their firm's costing system, compared to those who have a fixed mindset. Additionally, our results show that innovation‐oriented culture (a dimension of organisational culture) strengthens the relationship between growth mindset and changes in the design of the costing system.
Correlation between the electrocardiogram amplitude detected by an implantable cardiac monitor and the implantation depth
Authors: Kawatani Yohei , Hori Takaki
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs) primarily use R‐R intervals in subcutaneous electrocardiograms (ECGs) to detect arrhythmias. Therefore, reliable detection of R‐wave amplitude by an ICM is vital. Since ICMs detect subcutaneous ECGs, the impact of the implantation depth should be assessed.

Methods and Results

This study investigated the influence of ICM depth on R‐wave (ICM‐R) amplitude on an ECG generated by an ICM (JOT Dx; Abbott). Overall, 58 patients who underwent ICM implantation at Kamagaya General Hospital from May 2022 to April 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. The depth‐position was measured using ultrasound imaging after implantation. The depth of the ICM did not show any correlation with ICM‐R amplitude (r = −.0141, p = .294). However, the distance between the ICM and the heart surface showed a significant correlation with ICM‐R amplitude (r = −.581, p < .001). Body weight (r = −.0283, p = .033) and body mass index (r = −.0342, p = .009) were associated with ICM‐R amplitude. S wave in the V1‐lead was also associated with ICM‐R amplitude (r = .481, p < .001). After multivariate analysis, the distance between the ICM and heart surface and the S wave in V1 were independent determinants for the ICM‐R amplitude.

Conclusion

The ICM‐R amplitude may be higher with the ICM implanted deeper.
Editorial: Resmetirom – a promising treatment option for NASH and liver fibrosis
Authors: Targher Giovanni
Published: December 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Harrison et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17734
Editorial: Unmasking the silent threat—acute kidney injury in alcohol‐associated hepatitis
Authors: Ma Ann T. , Patidar Kavish R.
Published: December 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tyson et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17733 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17786
Evaluation of modified dried vinasse as an alternative dietary protein source for broilers
Authors: Onbaşılar İlyas , Yalçın Sakine , Gebeş Emre S. , Yalçın Suzan , Şahin Aydın
Published: December 2023

The increase in poultry production and the high cost of soybean led to the search for alternative protein sources. One of these sources is vinasse, a by‐product of the baker's yeast industry. Modified dried vinasse (MDV) can be produced for use in poultry nutrition by making some improvements in vinasse. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the effect of the usage of MDV in broiler diets. A total of 192 daily male Ross 308 chicks were randomly assigned to four groups. MDV was included at the levels of 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% in the diets for 42‐day trial. Linear significant improvements in the final weight, body weight gain, feed efficiency, and digestibility were seen with increasing MDV levels. The use of MDV caused a significant reduction in feed consumption. The relative weight percentages of abdominal fat and serum cholesterol concentration were reduced linearly with increases in MDV levels. MDV inclusion linearly decreased the malondialdehyde concentration, but increased 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity in breast meat significantly. The protein content in breast meat was increased with MDV. Cecal beneficial microorganisms and serum IgG levels were increased linearly with MDV. In conclusion, results suggested that MDV could be a feasible option for alternative protein sources for broilers.
Poxvirus infections in dermatology – the neglected, the notable, and the notorious
Authors: Obermeier Patrick E. , Buder Susanne C. , Hillen Uwe
Published: December 2023

The familyPoxviridaecurrently comprises 22 genera that infect vertebrates. Of these, members of theOrtho‐,Para‐,Mollusci‐andYatapoxvirusgenera have been associated with human diseases of high clinical relevance in dermatology. Historically, smallpox had been a notorious health threat until it was declared eradicated by the World Health Organization in 1979. Today, dermatologists are confronted with a variety of poxviral infections, such as farmyard pox, which occurs as a zoonotic infection after contact with animals. In the tropics, tanapox or vaccinia may be in the differential diagnosis as neglected tropical dermatoses. Molluscum contagiosum virus infection accounts for significant disease burden worldwide and is classified as a sexually transmitted infection in certain scenarios. Recently, mpox (monkeypox) has emerged as a public health emergency of international concern, requiring rapid recognition and appropriate management by dermatologists and infectious disease specialists. Advances and new insights into the epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical manifestations and complications, treatment, and prevention of poxviral infections require a high level of expertise and interdisciplinary skills from healthcare professionals linking virology, infectious diseases, and dermatology. This CME article provides a systematic overview and update to assist the practicing dermatologist in the identification, differential diagnosis, and management of poxviral infections.
Real‐world study of the concomitant use of biphasic insulin aspart 30/70 with GLP‐1 receptor agonist versus first‐generation basal insulin with GLP‐1 receptor agonist in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Davies Melanie , Alibegovic Amra Ciric , Anil Gayathri , Braae Uffe Christian , Jensen Anders Boeck , Nordsborg Rikke Baastrup
Published: December 2023

Aims

Combining insulin with a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D) is common. While many studies have investigated concomitant therapy with basal insulin+GLP‐1RA, few have reported on premixed insulin+GLP‐1RA. We aimed to address this gap using data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum database in England.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study with propensity score matching assessed glycaemic levels and other clinical outcomes in people with T2D, comparing biphasic insulin aspart 30/70 (BIAsp 30) + GLP‐1RA with basal insulin (insulin detemir/glargine U100) + GLP‐1RA (from 2006 to 2021).

Results

In total, 4770 eligible people were identified; 1511 had a BIAsp 30 + GLP‐1RA regimen and were propensity score‐matched to an equal number receiving basal+GLP‐1RA. There was no significant difference in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reduction between cohorts at 6 months (p = 0.15), with a decrease of −1.07 (95% CI: −1.16; −0.98) %‐points (−11.7 mmol/mol [95% CI: −12.7; –10.7]) in the BIAsp 30 + GLP‐1RA cohort, versus −0.97 (95% CI: −1.07; −0.88) %‐points (−10.6 mmol/mol [95% CI: −11.7; –9.6]) in the basal+GLP‐1RA cohort. Body mass index (BMI) decreased by −0.35 kg/m2 (95% CI: −0.52;−0.18) at 6 months with BIAsp 30 + GLP‐1RA, versus −0.72 kg/m2 (95% CI: −0.90;−0.54) with basal+GLP‐1RA (p = 0.003). BMI was influenced by the initiation sequence of GLP‐1RA in relation to insulin (p < 0.0001). Hypoglycaemia rates were low and not significantly different between cohorts.

Conclusions

Combining BIAsp 30 + GLP‐1RA provides glycaemic control with no significant difference to that of propensity score‐matched people receiving basal insulin+GLP‐1RA, with no increase in hypoglycaemia risk or weight gain.
Effects of microplastics on soil C and N cycling with or without interactions with soil amendments or soil fauna
Authors: Fan Chenzhe , Li Yixin , Tian Changqin , Li Ziyan
Published: December 2023

Microplastics (MPs) enter the global soil ecosystem in significant quantities, and in agricultural lands, interact with soil amendments (e.g, fertilisers, pesticides, biochar), pollutants (e.g., heavy metals and acid rain) and soil fauna (e.g., earthworms and microbial biomass) which impacts carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling in soil in ways that are largely unexplored. Here, we analysed the difference in the responses of soil C and N contents, greenhouse gas emissions and soil enzyme activities in experiments where MPs alone or MPs in combination with other soil amendments or soil fauna had been explored, by conducting a global meta‐analysis of 2543 observational data extracted from 84 published studies. The results show that MPs alone are associated with significantly increased soil C storage and altered soil N pool composition, increased soil carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, reduced soil ammonia (NH3) emissions, increased activity of one of the five major enzymes related to C cycle, and increased activity of three of the four major enzymes related to N cycling in soil. Experiments that explored the combined effects of MPs combined with fertilisers on soil C and N contents and enzyme activities indicated greater effects than MPs alone. However, the effects of MPs combined with soil fauna, heavy metals, acid rain, glyphosate, and carbon nanotubes on soil C and N cycling differed from findings of studies that considered the effects of MPs alone. The results of this meta‐analysis provide a theoretical basis for further study of the effects of MPs on C and N cycling in fertilized agricultural soil, compound‐contaminated soil and acidified soil. We also show that, despite the global importance of MPs in soil, the number of studies of their effects on soil C and N cycling is relatively few, and further research on the mechanisms of interactions of MPs with multiple soil amendments in soil systems is urgently needed.
TOX as a new diagnostic marker for T cell large granular lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Burg Manske M L , Visser Lydia , Diepstra Arjan
Published: December 2023

Aims

T cell large granular lymphocytic leukaemia (T‐LGLL) is a rare disorder that may underlie otherwise unexplained cytopenias. The identification of T‐LGLL cells in bone marrow biopsies can be a challenge, because a robust immunohistochemistry marker is lacking. The markers currently in use (granzyme B, TIA‐1 and CD8) are difficult to interpret or lack specificity. Therefore, we investigated whether immunohistochemistry for thymocyte selection‐associated high‐mobility group box (TOX), a transcription factor that associates with chronic T cell stimulation, could be a reliable tool for the identification of T‐LGLL cells.

Methods and results

In this retrospective study, expression of TOX in CD8+ cells in bone marrow biopsies of T‐LGLL patients (n = 38) was investigated and compared to bone marrow of controls with reactive T cell lymphocytosis (n = 10). All biopsies were evaluated for TOX staining within the CD8‐positive T cell population. The controls were essentially negative for TOX, whereas all T‐LGLL cases were positive (median = 80%, range = 10–100%), even when bone marrow involvement was subtle.

Conclusion

TOX is a highly sensitive marker for the neoplastic cells of T‐LGLL and we recommend its use, especially in the diagnostic work‐up of patients with unexplained cytopenias.
HIV and fracture: Risk, assessment and intervention
Authors: McGee D. M. , Cotter A. G.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

With management of comorbidity in people living with HIV (PLWH) a key component of clinical care, early loss of bone integrity and clinical fracture are recognized as important issues. This review aims to describe the epidemiology of fracture in PLWH, as well as summarizing the relative balance of factors that contribute to fracture. We also aim to describe fracture risk assessment and interventional strategies to modify the risk of fracture in this population.

Results

Data from recent meta‐analyses show that PLWH have significantly more fractures than the general population, with men and injecting drug users at higher risk. Modifiable factors that contribute to fracture risk in this cohort include body mass index (BMI), drug use, concurrent medications, frailty, and hepatitis C virus infection. Relating to antiretroviral therapy, current or ever tenofovir exposure has been identified as predictive of fracture but not cumulative use, and a potentially modest protective effect of efavirenz has been observed. Fracture Risk Assessment Tool scores underestimate fracture risk in PLWH with improved accuracy when HIV is considered a cause of secondary osteoporosis and bone mineral density (BMD) included.

Conclusion

Early consideration of risk, prompting evaluation of modifiable risk factors, frailty and falls risk with bone density imaging and prompt intervention may avert fracture in PLWH. Guidance on screening and lifestyle modification is available in international guidelines. Bisphosphonates are safe and effective in PLWH, with limited data for other agents.
Loss of nephric augmenter of liver regeneration facilitates acute kidney injury via ACSL4‐mediated ferroptosis
Authors: Huang Lili , Zhang Ling , Zhang Zheng , Tan Fangyan , Ma Yixin , Zeng Xujia , Cao Dan , Deng Lili , Liu Qi , Sun Hang , Shen Bingbing , Liao Xiaohui
Published: December 2023

Ferroptosis, characterized by lipid accumulation in intracellular compartments, is related to acute kidney injury (AKI), but the mechanism remains obscure. In our previous study, the protective effect of augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR) on AKI was not fully clarified. In this study, we established an AKI mouse model by knocking out proximal tubule‐specific ALR and an AKI cell model by inducing hypoxia, as well as enrolled AKI patients, to investigate the effects of ALR on ferroptosis and the progression of AKI. We found that ALR knockout aggravated ferroptosis and increased ROS accumulation and mitochondrial damage, whereas ALR overexpression attenuated ferroptosis through clearance of ROS and maintenance of mitochondrial morphology. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that ALR could directly bind to long‐chain‐fatty‐acid‐CoA ligase 4 (ACSL4) and further inhibit the expression of ACSL4 by interacting with certain regions. By resolution liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadruple mass spectrometry, we found that ALR could reduce the contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially arachidonic acid. In addition, we showed that ALR binds to ACSL4 and attenuates oxylipin accumulation, exerting a protective effect against ferroptosis in AKI. Therefore, targeting renal ALR can attenuate ferroptosis and can offer a promising strategy for the treatment of AKI.
Interdental oral hygiene interventions elicit varying compositional microbiome changes in naturally occurring gingivitis: Secondary data analysis from a clinical trial
Authors: Ge Yong , Bamashmous Shatha , Mancinelli‐Lyle Deborah , Zadeh Mojgan , Mohamadzadeh Mansour , Kotsakis Georgios A.
Published: December 2023

Aim

To evaluate the effect of different oral irrigators on the sub‐gingival microbiome composition in patients with naturally occurring plaque‐induced gingivitis.

Materials and Methods

Sub‐gingival plaque was collected from adults participating in a clinical trial assessing the efficacy of oral hygiene with two different oral irrigators (Waterpik Water Flosser [Group 1] and Oral‐B Water Flosser [Group 2]) versus dental flossing (Group 3) for microbiome analysis. Plaque samples were reflective of naturally occurring plaque‐induced gingivitis at baseline and of gingival health at the endpoint (4 weeks). Clinical measures of gingival inflammation were collected, and the sub‐gingival microbiome was analysed by 16S rRNA sequencing to identify amplicon sequence variants.

Results

Oral hygiene instruction with self‐performed manual toothbrushing and water‐jet irrigation led to significant reductions in inflammation for all groups; both oral irrigators outperformed flossing in bleeding‐on‐probing reduction (p < .001). Microbiome diversity of sub‐gingival plaque remained relatively stable over time, but significant changes were noted in certain taxa, consistent with increases in the relative abundance of commensals and reductions in late colonizers and periodontal pathogens in the water‐jet groups.

Conclusions

Reduction in gingival inflammation at 4 weeks within the water‐jet groups is accompanied by slight but critical changes in microbiome composition. Although biodiversity does not substantially change within 4 weeks during the resolution of naturally induced gingivitis, significant relative increases in commensal early colonizers such asStreptococcus,VeillonellaandFusobacteriumwere accompanied by a shift towards a less anaerobic microbiota associated with return to health. These changes were contingent upon the type of interdental hygiene, with Group 1 exhibiting more significant alterations in microbiome composition towards a periodontal‐health‐compatible community.
Economic policy uncertainty and short‐term reversals
Authors: Zhu Zhaobo , Sun Licheng
Published: December 2023

In this article, we provide new evidence on the impact of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on asset pricing. Specifically, we find that short‐term return reversals are stronger following high‐EPU periods, likely due to an uncertainty‐induced decrease in stock market liquidity. However, EPU does not appear to have a significant effect on accounting‐based anomalies, possibly because these anomalies are not driven by stock illiquidity. Our findings suggest that EPU affects short‐term asset prices mainly through stock liquidity. However, EPU may contain incremental information beyond stock liquidity. Moreover, the arrival of the latest fundamental information could significantly mitigate the effect of EPU on short‐term reversals.
A temporal investigation of experienced incivility and perpetrated counterproductive work behaviour
Authors: Henderson Alexandra A. , Matthews Russell A.
Published: December 2023

Following the principles of dynamic equilibrium theory (DET), this study examined the stable (institutional) and dynamic (episodic) components of mistreatment [experienced incivility and perpetrated counterproductive work behaviours (CWB)] using two longitudinal field samples based on a latent trait–state modelling approach. Study 1 (N = 615) leveraged a weekly lag design over four assessment points and Study 2 (N = 880) leveraged a monthly lag design over five assessment points. Across the two studies, results indicated that the majority of variance in both mistreatment constructs was institutional (i.e., individuals have meaningful set points that persist over time). Furthermore, institutional experienced incivility was positively related to institutional perpetrated CWB (i.e., the set point for experiencing incivility was positively related to the set point for perpetrating CWB). Similarly, episodic experienced incivility was concurrently associated with episodic perpetrated CWB (i.e., atypical episodes of experienced incivility were concurrently related to atypical episodes of perpetrated CWB). Interestingly, episodic experienced incivility did not have a lagged effect on future episodic perpetrated CWB, while episodic perpetrated CWB did have a lagged effect on future episodic experienced incivility. As such, for minor atypical episodes of mistreatment (i.e., incivility), we found evidence of dynamic equilibrium in that there are immediate episodic changes in other forms of mistreatment, but internal adaptive mechanisms appear to neutralize these effects over time. Meanwhile, overt atypical episodes of mistreatment (i.e., CWB) appear to have both immediate and lasting effects on other forms of mistreatment. These results have implications for DET, as well as for predicting the effectiveness of mistreatment research methodologies and interventions.
Development of genomic SSR markers and genetic diversity of Sphaerulina musiva in China
Authors: Ma Tengjiao , Hu Yanhong , Li Fanggong , Liu Longchang , Cui Linkai
Published: December 2023

Sphaerulina musiva is an important poplar pathogenic fungus that causes leaf spot and stem canker. SSR markers serve as excellent molecular markers for assessing genetic diversity in fungi. To date, few SSR markers have been developed and applied in S. musiva. In this study, genomic‐SSR markers were developed from the S. musiva genome, and applied to analyse the genetic diversity of S. musiva isolates from Henan province in China. A total of 9923 SSR loci were identified with a relative abundance of 343.15 SSR loci per Mb. Tri‐nucleotide repeats were the most abundant in five types of SSRs, and accounted for 56.82% of the total SSR loci. Twelve genomic‐SSR markers were successfully developed from tri‐nucleotide SSR loci. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 3 to 8 with an average of 4.08 alleles. The polymorphism information content of these loci ranged from 0.428 to 0.770, with an average of 0.553. Based on the SSR markers, a total of 48 haplotypes were identified from 48 S. musiva isolates. Forty‐eight isolates were divided into four main genetic groups at a genetic distance of 0.21. Genetic relationships of the isolates had no obvious correlation with geographic origin. It is the first time to develop genomic SSR markers in S. musiva. The developed SSR markers will be a useful tool to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure of S. musiva.
Dietary hydrolyzed soya lecithin affects feed intake, abundance of bacteria in the caecum, fatty acid composition and area of adipocytes in pre‐mating primiparous V‐line female rabbit
Authors: Mandouh M. I. , Shaheed I. B. , Bionaz M. , Elolimy A. A. , Mansour H. A. , Mohamed Shereen A. , El‐Attrouny Mahmoud M. , Farid O. A. A. , Mousa M. R. , Abdelatty A. M.
Published: December 2023

This study aimed at investigating the effect of hydrolyzed soya lecithin; also called lysolecithin or lysophosphatidylcholine, on growth performance, caecal microbiota and fat depots in pre‐breeding primiparous rabbits does. For this, 60 V‐Line primiparous rabbits does (5–6 months) were used in a 30‐day experiment. Does were allotted into three iso‐nitrogenous iso‐caloric dietary treatments (n = 20/group) as follows: (1) CON received 0% soya lecithin, (2) LECL group was fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.5% soya lecithin and (3) LECH group was fed a basal diet supplemented with 1% soya lecithin. Growth performance indices were measured, caecum samples were collected for measurement of specific bacteria via qPCR, and several fat depots including periovarian fat were sampled for adipocyte morphometry and fatty acid profiling. Statistical analysis was performed using GLM procedures of SAS v9.4. Soya lecithin increased feed intake (p < 0.05). The abundance of caecal Bifidobacteria species, Ruminococcus species and phylum Butryvibrio‐specific genes increased (p < 0.05) in rabbits receiving soya lecithin in their diet, soya lecithin increased the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids in subcutaneous and perirenal fat (p < 0.05) and increased the level of monounsaturated fatty acids in periovarian fat (p < 0.05); additionally, the adipocyte area increased in periovarian and perirenal fat (p < 0.05). In conclusion, soya lecithin at a dose of 0.5% increased feed intake and energy storage in adipocytes and improved the fatty acid profile of periovarian fat.
Re‐Examining Collective Religious Violence at Rajneeshpuram: A Cultural Opposition Model Analysis
Authors: Wright Stuart A.
Published: December 2023

The research literature on collective religious violence with regard to new or nontraditional religious movements (NRMs) has revealed an engaging set of arguments about the relative importance of internal versus external factors. While internal or group‐bounded factors are certainly significant, external factors and conditions are sometimes overlooked or at least not fully appreciated. This article synthesizes several models of collective religious violence highlighting external factors into a single “cultural opposition” model to reexamine the Rajneesh movement case in Oregon in the 1980s. I contend that key external incidents, particularly the bombing of the Rajneesh hotel by outsiders, serve as pivotal turning point for the dramatic advent of an armed encampment. The study then offers evidence to support the proposition that exogenous conditions of intense cultural opposition can transform the nonviolent beliefs and practices of a peaceful religious community into the endogenous conditions that Robbins identifies as “necessary” to heighten the likelihood of collective religious violence.
Soybean hull polysaccharides affect the physicochemical properties and lactic acid bacteria proliferation in plant‐based yogurt
Authors: Fan Xiangrong , Liu Xiaoqing , Yan Yaxin , Hua Dong , Liu Jun , Huo Dafei , Liu He
Published: December 2023

As a by‐product of soybean processing, soybean hulls contain soybean hull polysaccharides (SHPS). This study aims to develop a plant‐based yogurt with SHPS addition and assess the consequences of SHPS on the physicochemical properties and growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in yogurts. The study investigated the water holding capacity (WHC), microstructure, rheological properties, texture, pH, organoleptic attributes, volatile compounds, flavor profile, and LAB population. The findings reveal that the addition of SHPS significantly impacted these properties. SHPS improved the physicochemical properties, increased the level of flavor compounds, and improved the organoleptic properties of yogurt. Yogurt with 0.6% SHPS demonstrated superior WHC, texture, rheological properties, and the highest organoleptic evaluation scores. However, when SHPS additions exceeded 0.6%, WHC, texture, and rheological properties of the yogurts decreased. Furthermore, SHPS‐added yogurts contained more LAB compared to yogurt without SHPS. LAB grew better in media with SHPS than in media without glucose. Streptococcus thermophilus grew best among the LAB strains. This study highlights the potential of SHPS in yogurt production and its promising applications in fermented food products.