bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SNARE protein tomosyn regulates dense core vesicle composition but not exocytosis in mammalian neurons
Authors: Subkhangulova Aygul , Gonzalez-Lozano Miguel A. , Groffen Alexander J. A. , van Weering Jan R. T. , Smit August B. , Toonen Ruud F. , Verhage Matthijs
Published: December 2022

Tomosyn is a large, non-canonical SNARE protein proposed to act as a competitive inhibitor of SNARE complex formation in vesicle exocytosis. In the brain, tomosyn inhibits fusion of synaptic vesicles (SVs), whereas its role in the fusion of neuropeptide-containing dense core vesicles (DCVs) is unknown. Here, we addressed this question using a new mouse model allowing conditional deletion of tomosyn (Stxbp5) and its paralogue tomosyn-2 (Stxbp5l), and an assay that detects DCV exocytosis with single vesicle resolution in primary hippocampal neurons. Surprisingly, loss of both tomosyns did not affect DCV exocytosis but resulted in a strong reduction of intracellular levels of many DCV cargos, most prominently brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), granin VGF and prohormone convertase PCSK1. Reduced levels of DCV cargos were paralleled by decreased DCV size and impaired mRNA expression of the corresponding genes. We conclude that tomosyns regulate neuropeptide and neurotrophin secretion via control of DCV cargo production, and not at the step of cargo release. Our findings suggest a differential effect of tomosyn on the two main secretory pathways in mammalian neurons and argues against a conserved role of tomosyn as competitive inhibitor of SNARE complex formation.
AGFPsplicing reporter in acoilinmutant background reveals links between alternative splicing, siRNAs and coilin function inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kanno Tatsuo , Chiou Phebe , Wu Ming-Tsung , Lin Wen-Dar , Matzke Antonius , Matzke Marjori
Published: December 2022

Coilin is a scaffold protein essential for the structure of Cajal bodies, which are nucleolar-associated, nonmembranous organelles that coordinate the assembly of nuclear ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) including spliceosomal snRNPs. To learn more about coilin functions and pathways in plants, we conducted a genetic suppressor screen using acoilin (coi1)mutant inArabidopsis thalianaand performed an immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry analysis on coilin protein. Thecoi1mutations modify alternative splicing of aGFPreporter gene, resulting in a ‘hyper-GFP’ phenotype in youngcoi1seedlings relative to the intermediate wild-type level. As shown here, this hyper-GFP phenotype is extinguished in oldercoi1seedlings by posttranscriptional gene silencing triggered by siRNAs derived from aberrant splice variants ofGFPpre-mRNA. In thecoi1suppressor screen, we identified suppressor mutations in WRAP53, a putative coilin-interacting protein; SMU2, a predicted splicing factor; and ZC3HC1, an incompletely characterized zinc finger protein. These suppressor mutations return the hyper-GFP fluorescence of youngcoi1seedlings to the intermediate wild-type level. Additionally,zc3hc1 coi1mutants display more extensiveGFPsilencing and elevated levels ofGFPsiRNAs, suggesting the involvement of wild-type ZC3HC1 in siRNA biogenesis or stability. The immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry analysis reinforced coilin’s roles in pre-mRNA splicing, nucleolar chromatin structure, and rRNA processing. Coilin’s participation in these processes, at least some of which incorporate small RNAs, supports the hypothesis that coilin acts as a chaperone for small noncoding RNAs. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of theGFPsplicing reporter for investigating alternative splicing, ribosome biogenesis, and siRNA-mediated silencing in the context of coilin function.
Pregnancy preparation amongst women and their partners in the UK; how common is it and what do people do?
Authors: Stewart Catherine Louise , Hall Jennifer Anne
Published: December 2022

Background

Pregnancy preparation, to establish a healthy lifestyle within the preconception period, has been shown to reduce adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Despite its importance, we know very little about if and how people prepare for pregnancy in the UK.

Methods

As part of the P3 study, women in the UK were invited to complete an online survey about pregnancy preferences, including the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy (DAP) Scale. 274 participants were currently trying, thinking, or maybe thinking about getting pregnant and were asked about pregnancy preparations. The changes that women, and their partners, made in preparation for pregnancy, reasons for not preparing, and associations with sociodemographics were investigated in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Of the 274 women, less than half (n=134, 49%) reported making any changes in preparation for pregnancy, with the most common changes being “eating healthier” (55%) and “folicacid” (54%). The main reason for not preparing was “only thinking about getting pregnant” (38%). 92 women answered questions about partner preparations; only 24% of partners were preparing, with the most common changes being “eating healthier” (64%) and “reducing alcohol” (50%). The main reason for partners not preparing was “already healthy” (51%). DAP score was the only significant factor affecting pregnancy preparation; every one- point increase in DAP score reduced the odds of a woman preparing for pregnancy by 78% (OR 0.22, 95%CI 0.15-0.34).

Conclusion

Interventions addressing pregnancy preparation for women, and their partners, are needed. These strategies should target women thinking about pregnancy, to ensure the full benefits of preconception care are received.
Polygenic risk scores for nicotine use and family history of smoking are associated with smoking behaviour
Authors: Foo Jerome C. , Streit Fabian , Frank Josef , Zacharias Norman , Zillich Lea , Sirignano Lea , Völker Maja P. , Nürnberg Peter , Wienker Thomas , Wagner Michael , Nöthen Markus , Nothnagel Michael , Walter Henrik , Lenz Bernd , Spanagel Rainer , Kiefer Falk , Winterer Georg , Rietschel Marcella , Witt Stephanie H.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Formal genetics studies show that smoking is influenced by genetic factors; exploring this on the molecular level can offer deeper insight into the etiology of smoking behaviours.

Methods

Summary statistics from the GWAS and Sequencing Consortium of Alcohol and Nicotine (GSCAN) Consortium were used to calculate polygenic risk scores (PRS) in a sample of ∼2,200 smokers/never-smokers. The association of PRS for Smoking Initiation (i.e. Lifetime Smoking; SI-PRS) with smoking status, and PRS for Cigarettes per Day (CpD-PRS) and Smoking Cessation (SC-PRS) with Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) score were examined, as were distinct/additive effects of parental smoking on smoking status.

Results

SI-PRS explained 6.65% of variance (Nagelkerke-R2) in smoking status (p=1.71×10−24). In smokers, CpD-PRS (R2=3.15%, p=1.82×10−8) and SC-PRS (R2=2.01%; p=7.18×10−6) were associated with FTND score. Parental smoking alone explained R2=3.06% (p=2.43×10−12) of smoking status, and 1.39% when added to the most informative SI-PRS model (total R²=8.04%).

Conclusion

These results show the potential utility of molecular genetic data for research investigating smoking prevention. The fact that PRS explains more variance than family history highlights progress from formal to molecular genetics; the overlap and increased predictive value when using both suggests the importance of combining these approaches.

Implications

This study underlines the value of using PRS to predict smoking status/behaviour. It highlights the importance of molecular genetic methods in research investigating smoking prevention and points to the necessity of combining family history and molecular genetic data.
Adopting and adapting sustainability accounting: fit and faith in a family business
Authors: Maughan Rebecca
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretically informed analysis of the evolution of environmental management accounting (EMA) and social and environmental reporting (SER), and the accompanying development of a sustainability programme, in a large family-owned, unlisted corporation.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal case study based on semi-structured interviews and documentary data was conducted. The main periods of fieldwork were carried out in 2007 and between 2010 and 2012. Sustainability reports were collected until 2019 when SER appeared to cease. The case analysis draws on the concepts of organisational identity (OI) and internal legitimacy (IL) to examine the decision-making and actions of a range of key organisational actors as they engage with EMA and SER.

Findings

The study demonstrates that a gap between an organisation’s identity claims (“who we are”) and its enacted identity (“what we do”) can enable the adoption of constitutive, performative and representational EMA and SER. It illuminates the nature of the role of key actors and organisational dynamics, in the form of OI and IL, in adapting these practices. It also demonstrates that, in giving meaning to the concept of sustainability, organisational actors can draw on their organisation’s identity and construct the comprehensibility of an organisational sustainability programme.

Research limitations/implications

More empirical work is needed to examine the applicability of OI and IL to other settings. It would also be beneficial to examine the potential for OI work to allow organisations to change and reinvent themselves in response to the evermore pressing environmental crisis and the role, if any, of EMA in this process.

Originality/value

The study enriches our understanding of why and how EMA and SER evolve by demonstrating that paying attention to OI and IL can provide further insight into the decision-making and actions of organisational members as they recognise, evaluate, support and cease these practices.
Digitalization in accounting–Warmly embraced or coldly ignored?
Authors: Jans Mieke , Aysolmaz Banu , Corten Maarten , Joshi Anant , van Peteghem Mathijs
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The Accounting Information Systems (AIS) research field emerged around 30 years ago as a subfield of accounting but is at risk to develop further as an isolated discipline. However, given the importance of digitalization and its relevance for accounting, an amalgamation of the parent research field of accounting and the subfield of accounting information systems is pivotal for continuing relevant research that is of high quality. This study empirically investigates the distance between AIS research that is included in accounting literature and AIS research that prevails in dedicated AIS research outlets.

Design/methodology/approach

To understand which topics define AIS research, all articles published in the two leading AIS journals since 2000 were analyzed. Based on this topical inventory, all AIS studies that were published in the top 16 accounting journals, also since 2000, are identified and categorized in terms of topic, subtopic and research methodology. Next, AIS studies published in the general accounting field and AIS studies published in the AIS field were compared in terms of topics and research methodology to gain insights into the distance between the two fields.

Findings

The coverage of AIS topics in accounting journals is, to no small extent, concentrated around the topics “information disclosure”, “network technologies” and “audit and control”. Other AIS topics remain underrepresented. A possible explanation might be the focus on archival studies in accounting outlets, but other elements might play a role. The findings suggest that there is only a partial overlap between the parent accounting research field and the AIS subfield, in terms of both topic and research methodology diversity. These findings suggest a considerable distance between both fields, which might hold detrimental consequences in the long run, if no corrective actions are taken.

Originality/value

This is the first in-depth investigation of the distance between the AIS research field and its parent field of accounting. This study helped develop an AIS classification scheme, which can be used in other research endeavors. This study creates awareness of the divergence between the general accounting research field and the AIS subfield. Given the latter's relevance to the accounting profession, isolation or deterioration of the AIS research must be avoided. Some actionable suggestions are provided in the paper.
Shareholder sentiment at general meetings: speculating on colonialism
Authors: Power Sean Bradley , Brennan Niamh M.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Annual general meetings have been variously described as dull rituals for accountability versus entertaining theatre at the expense of accountability. The research analyses director and shareholder participation and dialogic interactions at annual and extraordinary general meetings of Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company (BSAC). The BSAC was incorporated under a royal charter in 1889 in return for power to exploit a huge territory, Rhodesia/now Zimbabwe. The BSAC's administration ceased in 1924/25. Thus, the BSAC had a dual mandate as a private for-profit listed company and to occupy and develop the territories on behalf of the British government.

Design/methodology/approach

The article analyses 29 BSAC general meeting minutes, comprising 25 full sets of verbatim minutes between 1895 and 1925. The study adopts manual content analysis. First, the research adopts conversational analysis to analyse director and shareholder turn-taking and moves by approving and dissenting shareholders. Second, the study identifies and analyses incidents of shareholder sentiment from the shareholder turns/moves. Finally, the article assesses how shareholder sentiment changed throughout the period and whether the BSAC's share price reflected the shareholder sentiment.

Findings

The BSAC's general meetings were associated with the greater colonial project of building the British Empire. The authors find almost 1,500 incidents of shareholder sentiment. Directors and shareholders take roughly an equal number of turns (excluding shareholder sentiment). Ritual and ceremony dominate director and shareholder turns and moves, while accountability to shareholders was minimal. The BSAC share price spiked in the early years of the project, waning after that. Shareholder sentiment, both positive and negative, reflect the share price behaviour.

Originality/value

A unique database of verbatim general meeting minutes records shareholders' reactions to what they heard in the form of sounding off through cheering, “hear, hears,” laughter and applause (i.e. shareholder sentiment).
Global collaboration in teaching root cause analysis with healthcare professional students
Authors: Hampe Holly , Frndak Diane , Kydonaki Claire
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe an example of how universities can develop unique synchronous educational opportunities to engage students in an online environment, especially since study abroad opportunities have slowed or halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Two affiliated universities, in the United States and Scotland, selected a simulated root cause analysis (RCA) of a medical error for a collaborative activity.

Findings

Together the students analyzed the event within assumed roles of healthcare professions in a systematic way using the “Swiss Cheese Model,” identified opportunities for improvement, debriefed using the Promoting Excellence and Reflective Learning in Simulation (PEARLS) method and submitted a reflective assignment. The RCA resulted in several process improvement suggestions and positive feedback from the participants.

Research limitations/implications

The approach was for graduate students from two affiliated universities, in the United States and Scotland, to simulate a RCA of a medical error as a collaborative activity.

Practical implications

This example using simulation of healthcare roles demonstrates the application of international collaboration, problem-solving models and methodologies and recognition of the similarities and differences between the United Kingdom and the United States approaches to patient safety. Especially with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the students' ability to internationally collaborate can be limited without such unique opportunities.

Social implications

The students were provided with a side-by-side comparison of the patient safety efforts in each country and written and didactic material about an RCA and the Swiss cheese model.

Originality/value

Students come from different perspectives of health services administration, nursing and nursing leadership from Scotland and the United States to solve patient safety problems.
Analytical modeling of quality parameters in casting process – learning-based approach
Authors: Suthar Janak , Persis Jinil , Gupta Ruchita
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Foundry produces cast metal components and parts for various industries and drives manufacturing excellence all over the world. Assuring quality of these components and parts is vital for the end product quality. The complexity in foundry operations increases with the complexity in designs, patterns and geometry and the quality parameters of the casting processes need to be monitored, evaluated and controlled to achieve expected quality levels.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature addresses quality improvement in foundry industry primarily focusing on surface roughness, mechanical properties, dimensional accuracy and defects in the cast parts and components which are often affected by numerous process variables. Primary data are collected from the experts working in sand and investment casting processes. The authors perform machine learning analysis of the data to model the quality parameters with appropriate process variables. Further, cluster analysis using k-means clustering method is performed to develop clusters of correlated process variables for sand and investment casting processes.

Findings

The authors identified primary process variables determining each quality parameter using machine learning approach. Quality parameters such as surface roughness, defects, mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy are represented by the identified sand-casting process variables accurately up to 83%, 83%, 100% and 83% and are represented by the identified investment-casting process variables accurately up to 100%, 67%, 67% and 100% respectively. Moreover, the prioritization of process variables in influencing the quality parameters is established which further helps the practitioners to monitor and control them within acceptable levels. Further the clusters of process variables help in analyzing their combined effect on quality parameters of casting products.

Originality/value

This study identified potential process variables and collected data from experts, researchers and practitioners on the effect of these on the quality aspects of cast products. While most of the previous studies focus on a very limited process variables for enhancing the quality characteristics of cast parts and components, this study represents each quality parameter as the function of influencing process variables which will enable the quality managers in Indian foundries to maintain capability and stability of casting processes. The models hence developed for both sand and investment casting for each quality parameter are validated with real life applications. Such studies are scarcely reported in the literature.
How risk-aversion level of return policies impact consumer trust in online shopping? An intercultural study in the Middle East
Authors: Askarifar Kazem , Dehbozorgi Yalda , Alsafi Ali
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between the risk-aversion level of return policies and customer trust in online shopping in three countries in the Middle East.

Design/methodology/approach

In the first step, the different types of return policies of online shoppers and the risk-aversion level were determined by surveying 18 online shops and interviewing 21 customers. The risk-aversion level of these policies was found in the experts’ panel. In the second step, the experiences of 573 consumers when facing seller’s return messages, perceived risk and consumer trust in three countries (UAE, Iraq and Iran) were collected through a questionnaire. Finally, the gathered data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicated that risk-averse return policies taken by online vendors led to lower consumer trust. Moreover, customer perceived risk mediated the relationship between return policies’ risk-aversion level and trust in Iraq and Iran. At the same time, there was no significant association between return policies and perceived risk in UAE. In addition, perceived risk wholly mediated the relationship between return policies’ risk aversion and trust in vendors in Iran, but this role was minor in Iraq.

Originality/value

Among the intercultural studies, especially in the Middle East, this is one of the first studies based on the marketing and sales management in an online shopper’s supply chain. Moreover, the investigation of return policies in online commerce is another innovative aspect of the present paper.
The relationship between perceived brand globalness/localness and purchase intention: exploring the role of consumer-brand identification with underdog positioning
Authors: Han Bangwool
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how perceptions of the globalness or localness of a brand affect the purchase intentions of consumers through the building of consumer–brand identification (CBI). This paper also explores the moderating effect of brand positioning (underdog vs top dog) on the relationship between perceived brand globalness or localness (PBG or PBL) and purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed hypotheses were tested in two experimental studies. Data were collected through a set of structured questionnaires and analyzed using PROCESS modelling and analysis of variance.

Findings

The results show that CBI mediates the effect of PBG/PBL on purchase intentions. Moreover, the findings of Study 2 reveal that participants show greater purchase intention for PBL than for PBG in response to underdog positioning. However, in top dog positioning, the difference in purchase intention for PBL compared to PBG is attenuated.

Originality/value

This research investigates how CBI influences purchase intentions of consumers in regards to a brand’s perceived globalness or localness, which adds to the growing body of international branding research. This paper also addresses the effects of interaction between brand localness (globalness) and underdog (top dog) brand positioning on purchase intentions. Finally, this study concludes with a discussion of practical actions that international brand managers can take to enhance the effectiveness of their marketing strategies.
Fostering green purchasing behavior: the moderated mediation role of customer disidentification
Authors: Abdo Maha S. , Ahmed Samira A. , Awad Basmah K. , Elsharnouby Mohamed H.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify the determinants of customers' green purchasing behaviors. First, the study examines the relationship between green self-identity (GSI) and green peer influence (GPI) on green purchase behavior (GPB). Second, it examines the relationships between both GSI and GPI, and purchasing behavior mediated by green consumption values (functional value (FV) and social value (SV)). Third, it investigates the moderating effect of customer disidentification (CDI) on the relationships between GSI and both green consumption values. Finally, it investigates the indirect relationships between GSI and purchasing behavior moderated by CDI.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative study is conducted using a survey of 204 Egyptian buyers of organic food products. AMOS and Hayes's PROCESS macro are used to test the hypotheses under investigation.

Findings

The customer's peer influence and GSI are found to have a positive impact on green purchasing behavior. Additionally, the mediating impact of values and the moderating impact of CDI are also confirmed.

Practical implications

This study helps organic food companies in identifying the determinants of customers' green purchasing behavior. The results of the study will guide the efforts of green marketing professionals in promoting green products in the Egyptian market.

Originality/value

Since the notion of green consumption is still in its infancy, there is a need for further exploration on the green consumption concept to better understand customers' predictors of that type of consumption; accordingly, the current research was conducted.
Second generation extruded snacks from sweet chestnut and corn blends – numerical optimization, nutritional, nutraceutical and storage stability characteristics
Authors: Altaf Rifat , Zargar Imtiyaz Ahmad , Gani Gousia , Hussain Syed Zameer , Bashir Omar , Naseer Bazila , Manzoor Sobiya , Amin Tawheed
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to develop sweet chestnut incorporated corn-based extrudates by the optimization of process conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The independent process variables for extrusion (blend ratio, barrel temperature, screw speed and feed moisture) were investigated to govern their impact on reliant variables, namely, bulk density, specific mechanical energy, water absorption index, water solubility index, color and hardness. Product and system responses were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the independent variables. Experimental design with quadratic models experienced a high coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.99).

Findings

Numerical optimization for the development of extrudates resulted in optimum conditions having corn flour: sweet chestnut flour (80:20), barrel temperature (120°C), screw speed (340 rpm) and feed moisture (12%). Fat, moisture and protein contents of the developed extrudates using optimum conditions were significantly (p < 0.05) lower compared to raw materials – corn and sweet chestnut. The packaging of extrudates in aluminum laminates revealed shelf stability of three months at room temperature without deterioration of quality.

Originality/value

Nutritionally rich sweet chestnut extruded products would be an exclusive option to already existing snacks in the market and can facilitate a new sphere in extruded product sector.
The impact of degree apprenticeships: analysis, insights and policy recommendations
Authors: Nawaz Raheel , Edifor Ernest Edem , Holland Samantha Reive , Cao Qi , Liu Leo Shixiong
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Degree apprenticeships in the UK have grown exponentially since they were introduced. While claims and speculations about their impact have been made by high-profile politicians, lobbyists and training providers, the evidence base for these claims has never been systematically scrutinised. The purpose of this paper is to analyse and present up-to-date peer-reviewed evidence on the impact of degree apprenticeships on social mobility and productivity and their influence on future policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors critically and systematically review over 4,000 data points from relevant sources and synthesise the results qualitatively and quantitatively with a combined method approach. Quantitative evidence has been aggregated where possible and tested for statistical significance. Qualitative evidence has been critically reviewed and comparatively analysed.

Findings

The analysis reveals that there is a shortage of depth and breadth of concrete and peer-reviewed evidence on the impact of degree apprenticeships. Nevertheless, existing data demonstrate that degree apprenticeships are meeting their intended purpose of contributing positively to the UK Government’s high-level goals for productivity and social mobility. They are an alternative route into higher education and serve as a vital talent pipeline providing opportunities for young people, existing employees and learners from diverse backgrounds.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first systematic and peer-reviewed synthesis of the impact of degree apprenticeships. It brings together existing evidence and statistically validates outcomes to inform researchers, educators, training providers, policymakers and other stakeholders in their recommendations moving forward.
Fatal non‐accidental pediatric cranial fracture risk and three‐layered cranial architecture development
Authors: Boyd Donna C. , Cheek Kimber G. , Boyd C. Clifford
Published: December 2022

This study examines the influence of three‐layered cranial architecture development upon blunt force trauma (BFT) cranial outcomes associated with pediatric non‐accidental injury (NAI). Macroscopic and microscopic metric and morphological comparisons of subadult crania ranging from perinatal to 17 years of age chronicle the ontogenetic development and spatial and temporal variability in the emergence of a mature cranial architecture. Cranial vault thickness increases with subadult age, accelerating in the first 2 years of life due to rapid brain growth during this period. Three‐layer differentiation of the cranial tables and diploë initiates by 3–6 months but is not consistently observed until 18 months to 2 years; diploë formation is not well developed until after age 4 and does not manifest a mature appearance until after age 8. These results allow topographic documentation of cortical and diploic development and temporal and spatial variability across the growing cranium. The lateral cranial vault is identified as expressing delayed development and reduced expression of the three‐layer architecture, a pattern that continues into adulthood. Comparison of fracture locations from known BFT pediatric cases with identified cranial fracture high‐risk impact regions shows a concordance and suggests the presence of a higher fracture risk associated with non‐accidental BFT in the lateral vault region in subadults below the age of 2. The absence or lesser development of a three‐layered architecture in subadults leaves their cranial bones, particularly in the lateral vault, thin and vulnerable to the effects of BFT.
Herbal Pharma Inc.: Conducting an Effective Group Audit*
Authors: Jones Joanne C. , Iacobelli Sandra , Scott Sandra
Published: December 2022

As the relative weight of global economic activity continues to shift toward non‐OECD countries (OECD 2018), audit firms are more likely to encounter clients with significant business operations in foreign jurisdictions. The associated need to engage and oversee local component auditors in these jurisdictions can lead to challenges arising from different business cultures and the resulting intra‐audit miscommunications. Audit deficiencies related to these challenges have been detected by regulators (PCAOB 2011, 2010; CPAB 2012, 2015). Standard setters such as the IAASB and the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AASB) have responded by issuing an exposure draft proposing revisions to ISA 600 (IAASB 2020) and CAS 600 (AASB 2020) to strengthen the auditor's approach and provide enhanced guidance to practitioners. In light of this evolving area of assurance, this case was developed to deepen students' understanding of both group and component audits in an international context. The case takes the perspective of the group auditor and features an audit senior in a specialized role overseeing the component audit of a client's increasingly material Chinese subsidiary. Deficiencies in the prior year component audit, along with a change in the component auditor, further underlines the importance of robust risk analysis for the upcoming engagement.
Place of last drink enforcement: Effects on alcohol‐related traffic crashes
Authors: Lenk Kathleen M. , Toomey Traci L. , MacLehose Richard F. , Scholz Natalie , Schriemer Daniel , Nelson Toben F. , Delehanty Eileen , Bosma Linda M. , Gloppen Kari
Published: December 2022

Background

Binge drinking can result in various types of harms including traffic crashes. Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol to patrons who are obviously intoxicated (i.e., overservice) contribute to these crashes. One strategy to address overservice is place of last drink (POLD) where law enforcement officers responding to alcohol‐related incidents inquire about where the individuals last drank alcohol. This information may then be used to identify bars and restaurants that frequently overserve alcohol. There is limited evaluation of the effectiveness of POLD in reducing overservice, traffic crashes, and other harms.

Methods

We evaluated the effects of a POLD initiative, developed by some law enforcement agencies in Minnesota (USA), on alcohol‐related traffic crashes from 2010 to 2019. Among 89 intervention (POLD) vs. comparison communities, we fit regression models with participation in POLD as the predictor. As secondary analyses, we fit models with POLD implementation level as the predictor (implementation levels were assessed via a survey of law enforcement agencies). We controlled for relevant community and agency characteristics.

Results

In the model with participation in POLD as a predictor, there was little difference in the rate of total alcohol‐related crashes (rate ratio [RR] = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.85–1.34). In the model with level of implementation as a predictor, the rate of total alcohol‐related crashes was comparable between communities with high implementation and those with no implementation (RR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.71–1.10). Similar results were seen for alcohol‐related crashes with nonfatal injury and property damage outcomes.

Conclusions

This study found little evidence that the POLD initiative, as currently implemented, was associated with reductions in traffic crashes across communities in Minnesota. Further research could explore whether specific characteristics of POLD are particularly important and whether POLD could be combined with other strategies to reduce traffic crashes and other alcohol‐related harms.
Recurrent pacemaker‐mediated arrhythmia with a right bundle branch block pattern in a patient with a cardiac resynchronization therapy device
Authors: Zhang Yubin , Han Yiru , Zheng Liangrong
Published: December 2022

Under certain conditions, cardiovascular implantable electronic devices can be directly involved in initiating and sustaining pacemaker‐mediated arrhythmias (PMA), of which repetitive reentrant ventriculoatrial synchrony (RRVAS) is the most well‐known and common type. RRVAS, also known as pacemaker‐mediated tachycardia, was commonly secondary to atrioventricular (AV) dissociation and subsequent ventriculoatrial (VA) conduction. RRVAS in a biventricular system is rare due to its less predisposition to the appearance of AV dissociation and subsequent VA conduction, but urgent in its adverse impact on cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), which may predispose to exacerbated heart failure. We present a rare case of recurrent PMA manifested as a right bundle branch block pattern in a patient with a CRT device. Notably, most episodes of PMA were triggered by a premature atrial contraction accompanied by the appearance of VA conduction with no prolongation of AV delay. In this study, we have demonstrated the impact of the appearance of VA conduction due to the loss of capture of right ventricular lead and its potential risk for inducing RRVAS in a CRT device.
Temporary Couples? A Chinese Migrant's Dream Narrative
Authors: Chen Shuhua
Published: December 2022

This piece presents a narration of a dream by a rural migrant, Yang Cui, who works in the city of Shantou in China. It reveals her inner struggles to end an affair with another migrant worker, Lao Bo. This piece is written as a part of an ethnographic book project on rural–urban migration in China, in which I experiment with different genres of writing in an attempt to address migrants' bewildering existential multiplicity of interior experience, among which some are presented more analytically, some more subjectively, and some more imaginatively. Understanding the human condition in terms of the limits of knowing others and ourselves requires anthropologists to seek creative forms of ethnographic narrative to give shape and voice to existential struggles, ambivalence, and uncertainty of everyday life. This piece attempts to use Yang Cui's narration of her dream as an evocative form of describing her inner struggles being with Lao Bo as a so‐called linshi fuqi (“temporary couple”), through which her self‐knowledge unfolds, reflection takes place, and consciousness finds expression.
AMBAR: A midwifery‐led training program to improve obstetric and neonatal practices among low‐risk births in Mexico
Authors: Séris Marina , Fritz Jimena , Montoya Alejandra , Lamadrid‐Figueroa Héctor
Published: December 2022

Background

Birth care in Mexican health institutions is highly medicalized and of poor quality because of the prevalence of outdated and dangerous practices. AMBAR—a training program for health care providers on the use of evidence‐based midwifery practices—was implemented during 2016–2018 and evaluated to assess the impact of training on key practices.

Methods

For this mixed‐methods study, we evaluated the effects of a training program implemented in three public hospital networks in Mexico. Qualitative data were collected and integrated into the program before evaluating the effects of the intervention on 10 birth practices, 5 beneficial and 5 potentially harmful. Quantitative data on birth practices and covariates were collected at six time points (baseline and 5 follow‐ups) in a final sample of 330 direct observations. Effect estimates were obtained by longitudinal logistic and Poisson regression models, adjusted for confounding variables.

Results

AMBAR had a significant effect on 4 of the 10 birth practices that were evaluated. Beneficial practices, such as skin‐to‐skin contact (P = 0.003) and delayed cord clamping (P = 0.039), increased significantly. Harmful when overused birth practices, such as vaginal examinations (P = 0.001), and cesarean birth (P < 0.001) decreased significantly.

Conclusions

Midwifery‐based training programs for health care providers can have an impact on the quality of care of birthing people and newborns, increasing the use of evidence‐based practices and decreasing frequently overused practices.
Plasma microRNA‐192‐5p can predict the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and prognosis in esophageal cancer
Authors: Furuke Hirotaka , Konishi Hirotaka , Arita Tomohiro , Kataoka Satoshi , Shibamoto Jun , Takabatake Kazuya , Takaki Wataru , Shimizu Hiroki , Yamamoto Yusuke , Komatsu Shuhei , Shiozaki Atsushi , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Otsuji Eigo
Published: December 2022

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Recently, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) before curative surgery has become a standard treatment for clinical stage II or III EC patients. Some EC patients receive a complete response (CR) by NAC; thus, curative surgery may be unnecessary for such patients. MicroRNA levels in plasma have the potential to be a predictor of response to NAC. In the present study, we focused on miR‐192‐5p, which is highly expressed in EC tissue. The purpose was to investigate the correlations between levels of plasma miR‐192‐5p and the response to NAC. Furthermore, molecular functions of miR‐192‐5p associated with chemosensitivity were examined using EC cell lines. The levels of miR‐192‐5p in plasma before surgery were evaluated in 113 EC patients. Sixty‐nine patients received NAC. miR‐192‐5p levels in the CR group were significantly higher than in the other groups (p = 0.002). The downregulation of miR‐192‐5p in the EC cell line inhibited sensitivity to cisplatin, and the overexpression of miR‐192‐5p in the EC cell line promoted sensitivity to cisplatin. miR‐192‐5p regulated sensitivity to cisplatin by targeting ERCC3 and ERCC4. Plasma miR‐192‐5p could be used as a predictor of response to chemotherapy and prognosis in EC patients.
Containing Violence in El Salvador: Community Organization, Transnational Networks and State–Society Relations
Authors: García Pinzón Viviana
Published: December 2022

Extant research has analysed the impact of security policies, truces and informal agreements on both the dynamics and traits of organized violence in El Salvador. However, less is understood about variation in the levels of lethal violence across subnational units. This article contributes to filling this gap. Based on a case study of the municipality of Chalatenango, the analysis shows that community organization and translocal dynamics are crucial to explaining violence containment. Local communities have managed to control the levels of lethal violence and deter criminal actors amid a national context characterized by state neglect and chronic violence. Community organization is not territorially bound but extends across transnational networks. Migrants are a source of livelihoods for the local population; they also contribute to providing public goods and participate in local forms of organization. Transnational networks have forged a migration corridor that enables immigration to the United States. In addition, community organization informally contributes to the capacity of the local state to perform its functions, thereby shaping cooperative state–society relations. This analysis sheds new light on the conditions shaping the variation in levels of violence at the subnational level and local governance dynamics.
Quantitative analysis of the roles of IRM cell adhesion molecules in column formation in the fly brain
Authors: Lee Yunfei , Wang Miaoxing , Imamura Kousuke , Sato Makoto
Published: December 2022

The Drosophila visual center shows columnar structures, basic structural and functional units of the brain, that are shared with the mammalian cerebral cortex. Visual information received in the ommatidia in the compound eye is transmitted to the columns in the brain. However, the developmental mechanisms of column formation are largely unknown. The Irre Cell Recognition Module (IRM) proteins are a family of immunoglobulin cell adhesion molecules. The four Drosophila IRM proteins are localized to the developing columns, the structure of which is affected in IRM mutants, suggesting that IRM proteins are essential for column formation. Since IRM proteins are cell adhesion molecules, they may regulate cell adhesion between columnar neurons. To test this possibility, we specifically knocked down IRM genes in columnar neurons and examined the defects in column formation. We developed a system that automatically extracts the individual column images and quantifies the column shape. Using this system, we demonstrated that IRM genes play critical roles in regulating column shape in a core columnar neuron, Mi1. We also show that their expression in the other columnar neurons, Mi4 and T4/5, is essential, suggesting that the interactions between IRM proteins and multiple neurons shape the columns in the fly brain.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for hypokinetic dysarthria in Parkinson's disease enhances white matter integrity of the auditory–motor loop
Authors: Brabenec Lubos , Simko Patrik , Sejnoha Minsterova Alzbeta , Kostalova Milena , Rektorova Irena
Published: December 2022

Background and purpose

In our previous study, repeated sessions of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the auditory feedback area were shown to improve hypokinetic dysarthria (HD) in Parkinson's disease (PD) and led to changes in functional connectivity within the left‐sided articulatory networks. We analyzed data from this previous study and assessed the effects of rTMS for HD in PD on the diffusion parameters of the left anterior arcuate fasciculus (AAF), which connects the auditory feedback area with motor regions involved in articulation.

Methods

Patients were assigned to 10 sessions of real or sham 1‐Hz stimulation over the right posterior superior temporal gyrus. Stimulation effects were evaluated using magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging and by a speech therapist using a validated tool (Phonetics score of the Dysarthric Profile) at baseline, immediately after 2 weeks of stimulation, and at follow‐up visits at Weeks 6 and 10 after the baseline.

Results

Altogether, data from 33 patients were analyzed. A linear mixed model revealed significant time‐by‐group interaction (p = 0.006) for the relative changes of fractional anisotropy of the AAF; the value increases were associated with the temporal evolution of the Phonetics score (R = 0.367, p = 0.028) in the real stimulation group.

Conclusions

Real rTMS treatment for HD in PD as compared to sham stimulation led to increases of white matter integrity of the auditory–motor loop during the 2‐month follow‐up period. The changes were related to motor speech improvements.
Treatment of mandibular ameloblastoma with surgical resection in combination with radiation therapy in a 15‐year‐old Hanoverian gelding
Authors: Will Johanna , Muñoz Encarnación , Maleh Souel , Gruber Achim , Coco Lisa , Fischer Holger
Published: December 2022

A 15‐year‐old Hanoverian gelding was admitted for evaluation of a firm, expansive mass about 5 cm in diameter, in the horizontal ramus of the right mandible, between teeth 406 and 408. Histological examination revealed a highly invasive ameloblastoma with severe secondary fibrosis. Resection of the tumour was performed under general anaesthesia, a 4.5 locking compression plate with 14 holes was placed over the defect with eight locking screws, and the defect was filled with Cerasorb M. The horse received radiation therapy with a dose of 4.2 Gy every day for 10 consecutive days. Twenty months after surgery, the horse is in a good general condition and a repeat biopsy showed no signs of tumour recurrence.
Chromosome‐dependent aneuploid formation in Spo11‐less meiosis
Authors: Kawashima Yuri , Oda Arisa H. , Hikida Yasushi , Ohta Kunihiro
Published: December 2022

Deficiency in meiotic recombination leads to aberrant chromosome disjunction during meiosis, often resulting in the lethality of gametes or genetic disorders due to aneuploidy formation. Budding yeasts lacking Spo11, which is essential for initiation of meiotic recombination, produce many inviable spores in meiosis, while very rarely all sets of 16 chromosomes are coincidentally assorted into gametes to form viable spores. We induced meiosis in a spo11∆ diploid, in which homolog pairs can be distinguished by single nucleotide polymorphisms and determined whole‐genome sequences of their exceptionally viable spores. We detected no homologous recombination in the viable spores of spo11∆ diploid. Point mutations were fewer in spo11∆ than in wild‐type. We observed spo11∆ viable spores carrying a complete diploid set of homolog pairs or haploid spores with a complete haploid set of homologs but with aneuploidy in some chromosomes. In the latter, we found the chromosome‐dependence in the aneuploid incidence, which was positively and negatively influenced by the chromosome length and the impact of dosage‐sensitive genes, respectively. Selection of aneuploidy during meiosis II or mitosis after spore germination was also chromosome dependent. These results suggest a pathway by which specific chromosomes are more prone to cause aneuploidy, as observed in Down syndrome.