bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying research fronts in NLP applications in library and information science using meta-analysis approaches
Authors: Majhi Debasis , Mukherjee Bhaskar
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the research fronts by analysing highly cited core papers adjusted with the age of a paper in library and information science (LIS) where natural language processing (NLP) is being applied significantly.

Design/methodology/approach

By excavating international databases, 3,087 core papers that received at least 5% of the total citations have been identified. By calculating the average mean years of these core papers, and total citations received, a CPT (citation/publication/time) value was calculated in all 20 fronts to understand how a front is relatively receiving greater attention among peers within a course of time. One theme article has been finally identified from each of these 20 fronts.

Findings

Bidirectional encoder representations from transformers with CPT value 1.608 followed by sentiment analysis with CPT 1.292 received highest attention in NLP research. Columbia University New York, in terms of University, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, in terms of journals, USA followed by People Republic of China, in terms of country and Xu, H., University of Texas, in terms of author are the top in these fronts. It is identified that the NLP applications boost the performance of digital libraries and automated library systems in the digital environment.

Practical implications

Any research fronts that are identified in the findings of this paper may be used as a base for researchers who intended to perform extensive research on NLP.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the methodology adopted in this paper is the first of its kind where meta-analysis approach has been used for understanding the research fronts in sub field like NLP for a broad domain like LIS.
Managers’ process thinking skills, dynamic capabilities and performance in export ventures
Authors: Vardarsuyu Merve , Spyropoulou Stavroula , Menguc Bulent , Katsikeas Constantine S.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to unfold the role of managerial characteristics in developing the dynamic capabilities necessary to serve foreign customers and compete in export market ventures.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test their proposed model using path analysis with data collected from export managers working in 204 small- and medium-sized Turkish exporters operating in various sectors.

Findings

The findings suggest that the positive effect of export managers’ process thinking skills on dynamic capabilities increases when the export managers’ learning and avoid orientations are low and prove orientation is high and export venture experience (duration and scope) increases. In addition, it has been found that export managers’ process thinking skills have an indirect effect on export performance through export venture dynamic capabilities.

Originality/value

This study makes three contributions. First, the authors conceptualize and operationalize dynamic capabilities in the context of exporting. The authors empirically validate export venture dynamic capabilities as a higher-level construct composed of sensing, seizing and reconfiguring elements pertinent to the firm’s export market operations. Second, based on the micro-foundations approach of competitive advantage, the authors study managers’ process thinking skills in exporting firms and how these abilities support dynamic capability development in export ventures. Finally, the authors investigate how the impact of export managers’ process thinking skills on export venture dynamic capabilities is influenced by their goal orientations and certain objective exporter characteristics pertaining to different aspects of export venture experience.
Financial integration and earnings management: evidence from emerging markets
Authors: Shah Syed Zulfiqar Ali , Wan Fangyi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study examines whether country-level financial integration affects firms' accounting choices and the quality of financial information.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs Propensity Score Matching (PSM), and panel regressions of a large sample of data from 20 emerging markets over the period 1987–2018.

Findings

This study finds evidence that increased level of financial integration is significantly positively associated with firms' accruals earnings management (AEM) and real earnings management (REM).

Research limitations/implications

Findings in the study have implications for standard-setting bodies that aim to enhance the usefulness of financial reporting quality. The study also has implications for various initiatives by governments in emerging markets aimed at raising investor confidence and fostering stock market development through greater financial integration.

Practical implications

Findings in the study have implications for standard-setting bodies that aim to enhance the usefulness and quality of financial reporting. The findings can be of interest to analysts, auditors and other monitoring institutions who play a crucial role in detecting earnings management and reducing information asymmetry. Finally, the study has implications for various initiatives by governments in emerging markets aimed at raising investor confidence and fostering stock market development through greater financial integration.

Originality/value

Findings in the study reveal how country-level financial integration affects accruals and real earnings management in a sample of firms from 20 emerging markets. Further, the study adds to the growing body of literature on emerging markets where capital markets mechanisms, regulatory environment and firm's corporate governance are distinct to developed markets.
Industry 4.0 benefits, challenges and critical success factors: a comparative analysis through the lens of resource dependence theory across continents and economies
Authors: Antony Jiju , Sony Michael , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , McDermott Olivia , Tortorella Guilherme , Jayaraman Raja , Sucharitha Rahul Srinivas , Salentijin Wilem , Maalouf Maher
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Entering a new era of digital transformation, Industry 4.0 (I 4.0) promises to revolutionize the way business has been done, providing unprecedented opportunities and challenges. This study aims to investigate empirically and comparatively analyse the benefits, challenges and critical success factors (CSFs) of Industry 4.0 across four continents and developing and developed economies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an online survey to explore the benefits, challenges and CSFs of developed and developing economies. In order to ensure the validity of the survey, a pilot test was conducted with 10 respondents. A total of 149 participants with senior managerial, vice-presidential and directorial positions from developed and developing economies spanning four continents were invited to take part in the survey.

Findings

The study ranks benefits, challenges and CSFs across economies and continents. Further, the benefit of Industry 4.0 helping to achieve organizational efficiency and agility differed across the developing and developed economies. Furthermore, the benefit improves customer satisfaction significantly differed across continents; in terms of challenges, Employee resistance to change had a higher proportion in developing economies. The future viability of I 4.0 also differed across the continents. Regarding CSFs, there was no difference across the developing and developed economies. Finally, change management and project management vary across the continents.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to a balanced understanding of I 4.0 by providing empirical evidence for comparative analysis. Moreover, it extends the concept of resource dependence theory to explain how organizations in developing economies and developed economies deploy resources to manage external condition uncertainties to implement I 4.0. Furthermore, this study provides a structural framework to understand the specific benefits, challenges and CSFs of implementing I 4.0, which can be utilized by policymakers to promote I 4.0 in their economies or continents.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no studies have empirically demonstrated the comparative analysis of benefits, challenges and CSFs across economies and continents and distinguish an original contribution of this work.
Social marketing framework for anti-littering behavior: an integrated serial mediation model
Authors: Kaur Ranjit , Singh Jagwinder
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Littering has been identified as a significant social issue in India that has negative impact on the environment as well as public health. Social marketing is a powerful tool for changing and sustaining pro-environmental behaviors, but so far no research has been found on the application of social marketing on changing littering behavior in India. This paper aims to integrate the two widely used social marketing models, health belief model (HBM) and theory of planned behavior (TPB), with an extra factor, environmental factors, in a holistic model to understand and predict anti-littering behavior in India.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 750 individuals were interviewed at 34 locations across the states of New Delhi and Punjab (India) in a field survey. For data analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation model techniques in AMOS 21.0 have been used.

Findings

The results of the study suggest that the perceived benefits and perceived barriers have a significant direct effect on the attitude toward anti-littering behavior. No direct impact of perceived threat has been found on attitude toward anti-littering behavior. The results also confirm the role of attitude, subjective norms and self-efficacy in influencing the anti-littering intention with attitude and subjective norms having a greater impact on intention as compared to self-efficacy. Furthermore, the results also highlight that the environmental factors and intention carry more weights than perceived behavioral control in influencing anti-littering behavior. Recognizing the importance of sequential mediators in the present study, the results of the serial mediation analysis revealed that attitude and intention sequentially mediate the path linking perceived benefits, perceived barriers and anti-littering behavior.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the current study in terms of theory building appears to be the first to integrate social marketing models HBM and TPB to explain and understand not only anti-littering behavior but also for setting a platform of behavior change in a larger context.
Understanding corporate tax responsibility: a systematic literature review
Authors: Scarpa Francesco , Signori Silvana
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to the debate about the place of corporate taxation in corporate social responsibility (CSR) by reviewing the present state of research, offering a comprehensive understanding of the content and dimensions of corporate tax responsibility (CTR) and discussing further developments in research and action.

Design/methodology/approach

The study builds on a systematic literature review of 117 theoretical and empirical papers on tax within the broad field of CSR published in peer-reviewed academic journals and books.

Findings

The analysis unfolds and discusses the construct of CTR and proposes a unified conceptualisation that elucidates for what firms are (or should be) held accountable on tax matters and the different dimensions (i.e. instrumental, political, integrative and ethical) which justify greater tax responsibility and enable its achievement.

Practical implications

The results can provide companies with practical guidance to enhance their tax responsibility and can give stakeholders and policymakers suggestions for new mobilisation strategies to achieve more responsible tax behaviour.

Social implications

Corporate tax payments are a fundamental dimension of CSR, as they fund public goods and services and reduce the unequal distribution of wealth. Providing a more structured understanding of CTR, this paper can contribute towards attaining more responsible tax outcomes which can better serve and benefit the whole society.

Originality/value

This study offers a structured overview of the present state of tax research in CSR, while providing a comprehensive understanding and conceptualisation of the construct of CTR, thus enabling scholars to situate their work and develop further relevant research in this field.
Transgenerational competition effects persist across multiple generations and are altered by offspring competitive environments in a clonal plant
Authors: Jin Yu , Chen Jin‐Song , Lei Ning‐Fei , Luo Fang‐Li , Huang Lin , Xue Wei , Zhang Qian , Yu Fei‐Hai
Published: June 2023

Environments experienced by parental plants may potentially influence the performance of their offspring. These effects may also vary depending on the current environment experienced by the offspring. However, whether these transgenerational effects, especially those induced by biotic factors such as competition, can persist for multiple generations has not been tested. Here, we examined intraspecific competition‐induced transgenerational effects across multiple generations using a floating clonal plant Spirodela polyrhiza, by growing three successive generations each under either low or high density. The second‐generation offspring performed better when the first‐generation plants were grown under low than under high density, independently of the density experienced by the second generation. The third‐generation offspring performed better under low than under high density, and the difference was more pronounced when the second‐generation plants were grown under low density. Moreover, the density of the first and second generation interacted to influence the morphology of the third‐generation offspring. These results indicate that competition‐induced transgenerational effects in S. polyrhiza can vary depending on the competition environment of its offspring and that these effects can persist across multiple generations.
Postoperative bronchopleural fistula after induction therapy with bevacizumab
Authors: Wada Hironobu , Suzuki Hidemi , Tanaka Kazuhisa , Sakairi Yuichi , Yoshino Ichiro
Published: June 2023

Bronchopleural fistulas are rare complications of bevacizumab treatment. Herein, we report a case of bronchopleural fistula after bevacizumab therapy. The patient was a 65‐year‐old man with lung cancer who underwent a right lower lobectomy with systemic lymph node dissection after induction chemotherapy with bevacizumab. Pathological examination revealed no residual tumor cells in the resected specimen. The patient presented with severe dyspnea on postoperative day 26. Bronchoscopy revealed a bronchopleural fistula in the membranous portion of the right intermediate bronchus; the bronchial stump remained intact. The bronchopleural fistula was repaired with muscle flaps, and bronchoscopy 9 months after surgery showed satisfactory healing of the fistula. The patient has been alive for 5 years without evidence of recurrence. Careful attention must be paid to postoperative management when bevacizumab is used for induction therapy.
Living Under Aboriginal Exemption: Negotiating State Governments' Policies and Practices
Authors: Wickes Judi , Robinson Kella , Aberdeen Lucinda
Published: June 2023

This volume of the Australian Journal of Politics and History presents an edited collection of papers delivered by emerging and established researchers at the Second Rethinking & Researching 20th Century Aboriginal Exemption Symposium, co‐hosted by the University of the Sunshine Coast with La Trobe University in October 2021. The papers reveal the human costs, hardships and legacies of the state policies of Aboriginal Exemption last century which supposedly offered the promise of freedom to Indigenous Australians confined to reserves and missions. Equally, the papers explore innovative and culturally safe ways to investigate and further understand Aboriginal exemption that ensure Ancestors and Elders, who actively negotiated, resisted and subverted its use, are recognised and honoured.
Fecal incontinence and associated pelvic floor dysfunction during and one year after the first pregnancy
Authors: Jansson Markus Harry , Franzén Karin , Tegerstedt Gunilla , Brynhildsen Jan , Hiyoshi Ayako , Nilsson Kerstin
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Obstetric anal sphincter injury is an important risk factor for postpartum fecal incontinence but few studies have reported fecal incontinence occurring, even during pregnancy. The first objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of fecal incontinence, obstructed defecation and vaginal bulging early and late in pregnancy and postpartum. The second objective was to assess the association between symptoms in pregnancy, delivery characteristics, and bowel and vaginal bulging symptoms at 1 year postpartum.

Material and methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted between October 2014 and October 2017, including 898 nulliparous women enrolled with the maternity healthcare service in Örebro County, Sweden. The women responded to questionnaires regarding pelvic floor dysfunction in early and late pregnancy and at 8 weeks and 1 year postpartum. The data were analyzed using random effect logistic models estimating odds ratios (ORs) and generalized linear models estimating relative risks, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

At 1 year postpartum, the prevalence of fecal incontinence, obstructed defecation and vaginal bulging was 6% (40/694), 28% (197/699) and 8% (56/695), respectively. Among women with vaginal delivery, the risk of fecal incontinence and vaginal bulging increased significantly both in late pregnancy, with ORs of 3.4 (95% CI 1.5–7.7) and 3.6 (95% CI 1.6–8.1), respectively, and at 1 year postpartum, with ORs of 5.0 (95% CI 2.1–11.5) and 8.3 (95% CI 3.8–18.1), respectively, compared with early pregnancy. Among all women, factors associated with increased prevalence of fecal incontinence 1 year postpartum were fecal incontinence during pregnancy (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 7.4; 95% CI 4.1–13.3), obstructed defecation during pregnancy (aRR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.9) and concurrent obstructed defecation (aRR 2.4; 95% CI 1.3–4.5).

Conclusions

This prospective study shows an increased risk of fecal incontinence by late pregnancy, suggesting that the pregnancy itself may be involved in the development of postpartum fecal incontinence. Obstructed defecation during pregnancy and postpartum was found to be associated with increased risk of fecal incontinence postpartum, indicating that postpartum fecal incontinence may be a result of incomplete bowel emptying.
Predicting the use of a COVID‐19 contact tracing application: A study across two points of measurements
Authors: Scholz Urte , Mundry Roger , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: June 2023

Contact tracing mobile applications (apps) were important in combating the COVID‐19 pandemic. Most previous studies predicting contact tracing app use were cross‐sectional and not theory‐based. This study aimed at contributing to a better understanding of app use intentions and app use by applying an extended version of the protection motivation theory across two measurement points while accounting for the development of the pandemic. A total of N = 1525 participants from Switzerland (Mage = 53.70, SD = 18.73; 47% female; n = 270 completed both assessments) reported on risk perceptions, response efficacy, self‐efficacy, social norms, trust in government, trust in the healthcare system, active search of COVID‐19‐related information, intentions for and actual (self‐reported) app use. Analyses included country‐specific incidences and death toll. Increases in response‐efficacy, self‐efficacy, trust in government, and the active search of COVID‐19‐related information predicted increased app‐use intentions. Increases in self‐efficacy, intentions, and the active search of COVID‐19‐related information predicted increased self‐reported app use. Risk perceptions, incidence, and death toll were unrelated to both outcomes. Across an aggravation of the pandemic situation, intentions for and app use were primarily related to response‐efficacy, self‐efficacy, trust in government, and the active search of COVID‐19‐related information.
Daily self‐weighing compared with an active control causes greater negative affective lability in emerging adult women: A randomized trial
Authors: Pacanowski C. R. , Dominick G. , Crosby R. D. , Engel S. G. , Cao L. , Linde J. A.
Published: June 2023

Age‐related weight gain prevention may reduce population overweight/obesity. Emerging adulthood is a crucial time to act, as rate of gain accelerates and health habits develop. Evidence supports self‐weighing (SW) for preventing weight gain; however, how SW impacts psychological states and behaviors in vulnerable groups is unclear. This study assessed daily SW effects on affective lability, stress, weight‐related stress, body satisfaction, and weight‐control behaviors. Sixty‐nine university females (aged 18–22) were randomized to daily SW or temperature‐taking (TT) control. Over 2 weeks, participants completed five daily ecological momentary assessments with their intervention behavior. A graph of their data with a trendline was emailed daily, with no other intervention components. Multilevel mixed models with random effect for day assessed variability in positive/negative affect. Generalized linear mixed models assessed outcomes pre‐ and post‐SW or TT and generalized estimating equations assessed weight‐control behaviors. Negative affective lability was significantly greater for SW versus TT. While general stress did not differ between groups, weight‐related stress was significantly higher and body satisfaction was significantly lower post‐behavior for SW but not TT. Groups did not significantly differ in the number or probability of weight‐control behaviors. Caution is advised when recommending self‐weighing to prevent weight gain for emerging adults.
Pharmacokinetic profile of irinotecan in patients with chronic kidney disease: Two cases and literature review
Authors: Chui Chang Yue , Moes Dirk Jan A. R. , Koolen Stijn L. W. , Swen Jesse J. , Gelderblom Hans
Published: June 2023

Aims

There are limited pharmacokinetic data on the use of irinotecan in patients with reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and no haemodialysis. In this case report, we present 2 cases and review the current literature.

Methods

The dose of irinotecan in both patients was reduced pre‐emptively due to reduced GFR. The first patient had her irinotecan dose reduced to 50%, but was nevertheless admitted to hospital because of irinotecan‐induced toxicity, including gastrointestinal toxicity and neutropenic fever. The dose was reduced further to 40% for the second cycle; however, the patient was again admitted to the hospital, and irinotecan was stopped indefinitely. The second patient also had his irinotecan dose reduced to 50% and was admitted to the emergency department for gastrointestinal toxicity after the first cycle. However, irinotecan could be administered in the same dose in later cycles.

Results

The area under the curve to infinity of irinotecan and SN‐38 in the first patient were comparable to those of an individual receiving 100% dose intensity. The area under the curve to infinity of irinotecan and SN‐38 in patient 2 in both cycles were slightly less than reference values. Furthermore, clearance values of irinotecan and SN‐38 in our patients were comparable to those without renal impairment.

Conclusion

Our case report suggests that reduced GFR may not significantly affect the clearance of irinotecan and SN‐38, but can still result in clinical toxicity. Reduced initial dosing seems indicated in this patient population. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between reduced GFR, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of irinotecan and SN‐38.
Analysis of Dynamic Restricted Mean Survival Time Based on Pseudo-Observations
Authors: Yang Zijing , Zhang Chengfeng , Hou Yawen , Chen Zheng
Published: June 2023

In clinical follow-up studies with a time-to-event end point, the difference in the restricted mean survival time (RMST) is a suitable substitute for the hazard ratio (HR). However, the RMST only measures the survival of patients over a period of time from the baseline and cannot reflect changes in life expectancy over time. Based on the RMST, we study the conditional restricted mean survival time (cRMST) by estimating life expectancy in the future according to the time that patients have survived, reflecting the dynamic survival status of patients during follow-up. In this paper, we introduce the estimation method of cRMST based on pseudo-observations, the statistical inference concerning the difference between two cRMSTs (cRMSTd), and the establishment of the robust dynamic prediction model using the landmark method. Simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the statistical properties of these methods. The results indicate that the estimation of the cRMST is accurate, and the dynamic RMST model has high accuracy in coefficient estimation and good predictive performance. In addition, an example of patients with chronic kidney disease who received renal transplantations is employed to illustrate that the dynamic RMST model can predict patients’ expected survival times from any prediction time, considering the time-dependent covariates and time-varying effects of covariates.
Conserved transcriptional programming across sex and species after peripheral nerve injury predicts treatments for neuropathic pain
Authors: Ghazisaeidi Shahrzad , Muley Milind M. , Tu YuShan , Finn David P. , Kolahdouzan Mahshad , Pitcher Graham M. , Kim Doyeon , Sengar Ameet S. , Ramani Arun K. , Brudno Michael , Salter Michael W.
Published: June 2023

Background and Purpose

Chronic pain is a devastating problem affecting one in five individuals around the globe, with neuropathic pain the most debilitating and poorly treated type of chronic pain. Advances in transcriptomics have contributed to cataloguing diverse cellular pathways and transcriptomic alterations in response to peripheral nerve injury but have focused on phenomenology and classifying transcriptomic responses.

Experimental approach

To identifying new types of pain‐relieving agents, we compared transcriptional reprogramming changes in the dorsal spinal cord after peripheral nerve injury cross‐sex and cross‐species, and imputed commonalities, as well as differences in cellular pathways and gene regulation.

Key Results

We identified 93 transcripts in the dorsal horn that were increased by peripheral nerve injury in male and female mice and rats. Following gene ontology and transcription factor analyses, we constructed a pain interactome for the proteins encoded by the differentially expressed genes, discovering new, conserved signalling nodes. We investigated the interactome with the Drug‐Gene database to predict FDA‐approved medications that may modulate key nodes within the network. The top hit from the analysis was fostamatinib, the molecular target of which is the non‐receptor spleen associated tyrosine kinase (Syk), which our analysis had identified as a key node in the interactome. We found that intrathecally administrating the active metabolite of fostamatinib, R406 and another Syk inhibitor P505‐15, significantly reversed pain hypersensitivity in both sexes.

Conclusions and Implications

Thus, we have identified and shown the efficacy of an agent that could not have been previously predicted to have analgesic properties.
Darwin's ‘mystery of mysteries’: the role of sexual selection in plant speciation
Authors: Haghighatnia Mohammadjavad , Machac Antonin , Schmickl Roswitha , Lafon Placette Clément
Published: June 2023

Sexual selection is considered one of the key processes that contribute to the emergence of new species. While the connection between sexual selection and speciation has been supported by comparative studies, the mechanisms that mediate this connection remain unresolved, especially in plants. Similarly, it is not clear how speciation processes within plant populations translate into large‐scale speciation dynamics. Here, we review the mechanisms through which sexual selection, pollination, and mate choice unfold and interact, and how they may ultimately produce reproductive isolation in plants. We also overview reproductive strategies that might influence sexual selection in plants and illustrate how functional traits might connect speciation at the population level (population differentiation, evolution of reproductive barriers; i.e. microevolution) with evolution above the species level (macroevolution). We also identify outstanding questions in the field, and suitable data and tools for their resolution. Altogether, this effort motivates further research focused on plants, which might potentially broaden our general understanding of speciation by sexual selection, a major concept in evolutionary biology.
Are low academic achievers less resilient? Resilience of low and high academic achievers in Mainland China
Authors: Wang Miao , Wang Ning
Published: June 2023

Resilience is essential for students to resist adversity, and low academic achievers (LAA) may experience more challenges in resilience development than high academic achievers (HAA). This study aimed to compare resilience between LAA and HAA and to analyse the effects of protective factors in order to inform social work practices. This study analysed 1125 school‐aged subjects derived from a large survey conducted in 23 districts/counties in eight provinces in mainland China. We ran independent sample t‐tests to compare resilience between LAA and HAA, ran linear regression models to analyse the effects of internal and external protective factors on resilience, and tested the mediation effects of the protective factors. This study found that LAA were less resilient and more vulnerable to adversity than HAA. Internal protective factors helped to explain resilience, two main subfactors of which—self‐efficacy and confidence—fully mediated the effects of academic performance and resilience. External protective factors did not significantly impact resilience. We propose service strategies to enhance self‐efficacy and confidence in LAA in order to improve their resilience in social work practices.
The feasibility of ultrasonography for the measurement of periodontal and peri‐implant phenotype: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fan Shengchi , Sáenz‐Ravello Gustavo , Al‐Nawas Bilal , Schiegnitz Eik , Diaz Leonardo , Sagheb Keyvan
Published: June 2023

Background

Screening ultrasonography was proposed for monitoring periodontal soft tissues in the early 1960s, owing to its nonionizing, real‐time, and cost‐effective properties. Studies have provided convincing preliminary evidence for the use of ultrasound (US) in implant dentistry.

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of ultrasonography (US) for measuring the buccal thickness of periodontal and peri‐implant tissues. The secondary objective was to evaluate the reliability of US measurements compared to classic techniques, such as CBCT and directly measurements.

Materials and Methods

An electronic literature search was conducted by three independent reviewers through February 2023. The inclusion criteria were articles investigating at least five patients/cadavers with US measurements in periodontal or peri‐implant buccal tissues. Compliance with methodological reporting standards and risk of bias was assessed using EULAR and QUADAS‐C tools, respectively. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was conducted, using Bland–Altman analysis. Certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE.

Results

The final selection included 12 studies examining 458 patients and 13 cadavers, with a total of 226 implants, 1958 teeth and 60 edentulous sites. The body of evidence was assessed as partially compliant with methodological reporting standards for US studies and had an unclear to high risk of bias. Meta‐analysis of five comparative studies showed no evidence of clinically significant bias between US and direct measurements (very low certainty), and between US and CBCT (very low certainty) for soft‐tissue thickness. Likewise, for bone thickness, there is no evidence of clinically significant bias between US and CBCT (low certainty).

Conclusions

Compared to the CBCT and direct measurements, ultrasonography might be a reliable approach for monitoring on periodontal and peri‐implant phenotype. However, there is uncertainty about estimates of the actual effect, so further standardized and larger sample size of clinical research is needed.
Comparison of immunohistochemical mesothelial biomarkers in paired biopsies and effusion cytology cell blocks from pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Mansour Mohammed S. I. , Huseinzade Adela , Seidal Tomas , Hejny Kim , Maty Athar , Taheri‐Eilagh Fereshteh , Mager Ulrich , Dejmek Annika , Dobra Katalin , Brunnström Hans
Published: June 2023

Objective

Traditionally, the diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is based on histological material. Minimally invasive effusion cytology specimens are an alternative that, like biopsies, require ancillary analyses. Validation of immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses on cytology, including the surrogate markers for molecular alterations BAP1 and MTAP, is of interest.

Methods

IHC for eight different markers was performed on 59 paired formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded pleural biopsies and pleural effusion cell blocks with mesothelioma. Immunoreactivity in ≥10% of tumour cells was considered positive/preserved. The concordance between histological and cytological materials was assessed.

Results

The overall percentage of agreement between the histological epithelioid component in 58 biopsies and paired cell blocks was 93% for calretinin, 98% for CK5, 97% for podoplanin, 90% for WT1, 86% for EMA, 100% for desmin, 91% for BAP1, and 72% for MTAP. For 11 cases with biphasic or sarcomatoid histology, the concordance between cytology and the histological sarcomatoid component was low for calretinin, CK5, and WT1 (all ≤45%). For the whole cohort, loss of both BAP1 and MTAP was seen in 40% while both markers were preserved in 11% of the biopsies for epithelioid histology. The corresponding numbers were 54% and 8%, respectively, for the paired cell blocks.

Conclusions

Generally, a high concordance for IHC staining was seen between paired biopsies and pleural effusion cell blocks from mesotheliomas, but the somewhat lower agreement for WT1, EMA, and especially MTAP calls for further investigation and local quality assurance. The lower concordance for the sarcomatoid subtype for some markers may indicate biological differences.
Effects of dapagliflozin compared with glimepiride on body composition in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with metformin: The BEYOND study
Authors: Park Hyeong Kyu , Kim Kyoung‐Ah , Min Kyung‐Wan , Sohn Tae‐Seo , Jeong In Kyung , Ahn Chul Woo , Kim Nan‐Hee , Park Ie Byung , Cho Ho Chan , Chung Choon Hee , Choi Sung Hee , Park Kang Seo , Yang Seoung‐Oh , Lee Kwan Woo
Published: June 2023

Aims

To evaluate the effect of dapagliflozin on body composition such as total body fat (BF) mass, abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) areas compared with glimepiride in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This was a 52‐week, multicentre, randomized, parallel‐group, open‐label, Phase IV (NCT02564926) study. Patients with inadequate glycaemic control (glycated haemoglobin ≥7.0% and <10.0%) on metformin monotherapy (≥1000 mg/day) were randomized 1:1 to receive dapagliflozin 10 mg/day or glimepiride 1‐2 mg/day for 12 months as an add‐on to metformin. Baseline and end of study body composition evaluations included dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry and abdominal computed tomography scans.

Results

Of 124 enrolled patients from 14 centres, 121 received study treatment (dapagliflozin: 60; glimepiride: 61) and 106 (85.5%) completed the study. Over 52 weeks, the dapagliflozin group showed the following differences versus the glimepiride group: −2.59 kg BF mass, −1.94% BF%, −17.55 cm2 VAT area, −18.39 cm2 SAT area, −0.46% glycated haemoglobin, −18.25 mg/dl fasting blood glucose, −3.7 kg weight, −2.21 cm waist circumference, −1.37 kg/m2 body mass index, −6.81 mmHg systolic blood pressure and +657.71 ng/ml in adiponectin; all were statistically significant. Both groups had similar incidences of adverse events; however, hypoglycaemic events were mainly (12 of 15) reported in the glimepiride group.

Conclusion

Dapagliflozin reduced total BF mass, abdominal VAT and SAT areas, and showed better glycaemic control than glimepiride. Being safe and well‐tolerated, dapagliflozin appears to be a more favourable alternative to sulphonylureas as add‐on therapy after metformin monotherapy failure in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes.
Clinical effects of a combination of phenylbutazone and omeprazole on chronic lameness in Mongolian horses
Authors: Li Zhengyi , Du Shan , Wang Xiaomin , Zhang Lanxin , Liu Xinyu , Fan Quanrong , Yang Huidi , Gao Ruifeng
Published: June 2023

Background

Phenylbutazone (PBZ) is the most commonly used drug to treat symptoms of lameness in horses; however, it is associated with adverse effects such as gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). Interestingly, many practitioners prescribe omeprazole (OME) concurrently with PBZ to prevent the development of EGUS. However, the efficacy and safety of this practice in Mongolian horses with chronic lameness remain unknown.

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical effects of a combination of PBZ and OME on chronic lameness in Mongolian horses.

Study design

Randomised block experimental design.

Methods

Eighteen Mongolian horses with lameness score was ≥3 points, were divided into three treatment groups, with six horses in each group: placebo (CON), PBZ (4.4 mg/kg PO q. 24 h), or PBZ plus OME (4 mg/kg PO q. 24 h; PBZ + OME) in a randomised block design based on the initial lameness score. The horses were treated for 15 days. During this period, weekly gastroscopy, and physiological and biochemical tests were performed.

Results

Both PBZ (median 1.0, interquartile range [IQR]: 0.8–1.3; p = 0.01) and PBZ + OME (median 1.0, IQR: 1.0–1.0; p = 0.01) significantly decreased the lameness score compared with before administration. In addition, PBZ significantly increased the equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) score (3.0 ± 0.6, p < 0.001), GT‐17 content (293.4 ± 21.8 pg/mL, p < 0.001), and pepsinogen‐1 (PG1) content (295.3 ± 38.3 ng/mL, p < 0.001) compared with CON or PBZ + OME. However, it significantly reduced the total protein (53.6 ± 1.5 g/L, p < 0.05) and albumin (25.5 ± 1.8 g/L, p < 0.05) contents. Nevertheless, compared with PBZ, PBZ + OME significantly decreased the EGGD score (0.3 ± 0.5, p < 0.001) and significantly increased the gastric fluid pH (7.3 ± 0.5, p < 0.001), total protein content (62.5 ± 4.6 g/L, p = 0.009), and albumin content (29.4 ± 1.1 g/L, p = 0.004). Meanwhile, they significantly diminished the gastrin 17 (GT‐17) (162.0 ± 21.0 pg/mL, p < 0.001) and PG1 (182.4 ± 22.5 ng/mL, p < 0.001) contents.

Main limitations

Individual differences in horses were larger, but the sample size was small. There was larger interval between observations for each index.

Conclusions

Compared with PBZ alone, PBZ + OME had no therapeutic effect on chronic lameness; however, it reduced the occurrence of EGGD in Mongolian horses. Horses may be protected against chronic lameness and PBZ‐induced EGGD by increasing the pH value, decreasing serum PG1 and GT‐17 content, and preventing the reduction of myeloperoxidase content.
The underestimated role of mitochondria in vitiligo: From oxidative stress to inflammation and cell death
Authors: Lin Yi , Ding Yuecen , Wu Yue , Yang Yiwen , Liu Ziqi , Xiang Leihong , Zhang Chengfeng
Published: June 2023

Vitiligo is an acquired depigmentary disorder characterized by the depletion of melanocytes in the skin. Mitochondria shoulder multiple functions in cells, such as production of ATP, maintenance of redox balance, initiation of inflammation and regulation of cell death. Increasing evidence has implicated the involvement of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Mitochondria alteration will cause the abnormalities of mitochondria functions mentioned above, ultimately leading to melanocyte loss through various cell death modes. Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a critical role in mitochondrial homeostasis, and the downregulation of Nrf2 in vitiligo may correlate with mitochondria damage, making both mitochondria and Nrf2 promising targets in treatment of vitiligo. In this review, we aim to discuss the alterations of mitochondria and its role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo.
Ticktrefoil (Desmodium) species as a nutraceutical forage resource for animals
Authors: Terrill Thomas H. , Courson Erica M. , Morris J. Bradley , Morning Beyanna J. , Owen Vicki R. , Muir James P. , Cherry Nichole M. , Tonnis Brandon , Pech‐Cervantes Andres A.
Published: June 2023

Ticktrefoil (Desmodium) species from the USDA, ARS, Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit (PGRCU) germplasm collection in Griffin, GA, were evaluated for their potential livestock nutraceutical (nutritional + pharmaceutical) value in a field small plot study at the Fort Valley State University (FVSU) Agricultural Research Station, Fort Valley, GA. Horse marmalade (Desmodium discolor Vogel), greenleaf ticktrefoil (Desmodium intortum [Mill.] Urb.), panicledleaf ticktrefoil (Desmodium paniculatum [L.] DC.), Hawaii ticktrefoil (Desmodium sandwicense E. May) and twisted ticktrefoil (Desmodium tortuosum [Sw.] DC.) were established in a greenhouse and transplanted to field plots, with plant material from each species harvested, freeze‐dried, ground and analyzed for nutrient content and bioactivity. Crude protein (CP) levels in D. discolor and D. tortuosum averaged 233 g/kg, whereas CP in D. intortum, D. paniculatum and D. sandwicense ranged from 99 to 157 g/kg. The Desmodium species had in vitro true digestibility values of 755 to 878 g/kg. There were no detectable condensed tannins in D. discolor and D. tortuosum, whereas D. intortum, D. paniculatum and D. sandwicense averaged 88, 89 and 73 g/kg total condensed tannin, respectively. There were species differences in flavonoid content (p < .01), with the highest delphinidin and cyanidin concentrations in D. sandwicense and D. paniculatum, respectively. There were no detectable levels of delphinidin or cyanidin for D. discolor or D. tortuosum. Quercitin and kaempferol concentrations were highest in D. intortum and D. paniculatum, respectively, whereas D. discolor and D. tortuosum had the lowest values. The highest protein precipitable phenolics and total phenolic concentrations were for D. paniculatum. Desmodium species have potential as nutraceutical forage for livestock and warrant further investigation.
Effects of pre‐ultrasonication on small molecular metabolites and flavour compounds in chicken broth
Authors: Jia Rong , Yin Xiaoyan , Liao Guozhou , Yang Zijiang , Gu Dahai , Pu Yuehong , Ge Changrong , Huang Ming , Wang Guiying
Published: June 2023

The chicken broth was pre‐treated with ultrasound at 0, 480, 600, 720 and 840 W for 30 min before stewing, and the changes of free fatty acids, small molecular compounds, volatile flavour compounds, umami polypeptides in the chicken broth were determined by GC–MS, UPLC‐Q‐Exactive‐MS, GC–IMS and LC–MS/MS, respectively. 600 W ultrasonic treatment group outperformed the other groups in terms of sensory evaluation (P < 0.05). Palmitic acid and stearic acid were the chief free fatty acids in chicken broth. 530 and 236 small molecule metabolites were found. 36 volatile compounds were identified in chicken broth, mainly aldehydes. The proportion of sweet and umami amino acids in the chicken broth of the 600 W ultrasonic treatment group accounted for 63% of the total polypeptide sequence, indicating that pre‐ultrasonication can increase the content of sweet and umami polypeptides in chicken soup. The overall taste and flavour of Wuding chicken soup under pre‐ultrasonication with 600 W power were the best combined with sensory evaluation scores. These results can provide scientific and theoretical guidance for the further understanding of the effect of ultrasound assistance on the quality of chicken broth and the intensive processing of local chicken.
Association between maternal use of spray formulations and offspring urological anomalies: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Taniguchi Yohei , Shimomura Hideki , Hasunuma Hideki , Taniguchi Naoko , Fujino Tetsuro , Utsunomiya Takeshi , Okuda Masumi , Shima Masayuki , Takeshima Yasuhiro ,   the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) Group
Published: June 2023

Objective

Concerns exist regarding the effects of maternal inhalation of household products on fetal health. This study aimed to clarify the impact of maternal exposure to household products, including spray formulations, on urological anomalies in offspring up to the age of 1 year.

Methods

This study included data from 84 237 children from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, an ongoing nationwide cohort study. Using maternal self‐report questionnaires, information on the use of organic solvents, waterproof sprays, insect‐repellent sprays, insecticide sprays, and herbicides from implantation until the second or third trimester of pregnancy and data on urological anomalies were collected 1 year after delivery.

Results

Urological anomalies occurred in 799 infants. Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for maternal age, pregnancy body mass index, gestational diabetes, pre‐existing maternal kidney disease, and preterm birth revealed no association between maternal exposure to organic solvents and the prevalence of offspring urological anomalies. Nevertheless, we observed significant associations between waterproof spray use during pregnancy and urological anomalies in boys (odds ratio [OR]: 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.59) and between the use of insecticide spray during pregnancy and urological anomalies in girls (OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 0.98–2.22). Sub‐analysis revealed significant associations between waterproof spray use during pregnancy and vesicoureteral reflux in boys (OR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.02–4.49) and between the use of insecticide spray during pregnancy and hydronephrosis in girls (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.11–4.47).

Conclusion

Spray formulation use during pregnancy might increase the risk of urological anomalies in the offspring.
Tying in two‐sided markets with heterogeneous advertising revenues and negative pricing
Authors: Hahn Jong‐Hee , Kim Sang‐Hyun , Yoon So Hye
Published: June 2023

We offer a theory of anticompetitive tying in two‐sided markets when below‐cost or negative pricing is possible. With the coexistence of two consumer groups (one regarding tying and tied goods as complementary and the other as independent), a tying‐good monopolist may face difficulties in extracting rent under separate sales and wish to use tying to directly capture the large advertising revenue created in the complementary segment. We uncover two distinct mechanisms by which tying raises monopoly profits but reduces social welfare. Our theory of tying can be applied to real‐world antitrust law enforcement, such as the Google Android case.