bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CoCoA: Conditional Correlation Models with Association Size
Authors: Tu Danni , Mahony Bridget , Moore Tyler M. , Bertolero Maxwell A. , Alexander-Bloch Aaron F. , Gur Ruben , Bassett Dani S. , Satterthwaite Theodore D. , Raznahan Armin , Shinohara Russell T.
Published: March 2022

Summary

Many scientific questions can be formulated as hypotheses about conditional correlations. For instance, in tests of cognitive and physical performance, the trade-off between speed and accuracy motivates study of the two variables together. A natural question is whether speed-accuracy coupling depends on other variables, such as sustained attention. Classical regression techniques, which posit models in terms of covariates and outcomes, are insufficient to investigate the effect of a third variable on the symmetric relationship between speed and accuracy. In response, we propose CoCoA (Conditional Correlation Model with Association Size), a likelihood-based statistical framework to estimate the conditional correlation between speed and accuracy as a function of additional variables. We propose novel measures of the association size, which are analogous to effect sizes on the correlation scale, while adjusting for confound variables. In simulation studies, we compare likelihood-based estimators of conditional correlation to semi-parametric estimators adapted from genome association studies, and find that the former achieves lower bias and variance under both ideal settings and model assumption misspecification. Using neurocognitive data from the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort, we demonstrate that greater sustained attention is associated with stronger speed-accuracy coupling in a complex reasoning task while controlling for age. By highlighting conditional correlations as the outcome of interest, our model provides complementary insights to traditional regression modelling and partitioned correlation analyses.
CTLA-4 regulates PD-L1-PD-1 interactions via transendocytosis of CD80
Authors: Kennedy Alan , Robinson Max , Hinze Claudia , Waters Erin , Williams Cayman , Halliday Neil , Dovedi Simon , Sansom David M
Published: March 2022

CTLA-4 and PD-1 are key immune checkpoints that are targeted in the treatment of cancer. Recently it has emerged that there is a physical interaction between the ligands of these pathways (CD80 and PD-L1), which can prevent PD-L1 inhibitory functions. Since CTLA-4 captures and degrades its ligands via transendocytosis, we investigated how transendocytosis of CD80 is impacted by PD-L1 interaction. We find that transendocytosis of CD80 results in a time-dependent recovery of PD-L1 availability that correlates with CD80 removal. Moreover, CD80 transendocytosis is highly specific in that only CD80 is removed, and its heterodimeric PD-L1 partner remains on the APC. We found no evidence that CTLA-4 interactions with CD80 were inhibited by PD-L1, however efficient removal of CD80 required an intact CTLA-4 cytoplasmic domain, distinguishing this process from more general trogocytosis. We also show that simple binding of CTLA-4 to the CD80-PD-L1 heterodimer is insufficient to liberate PD-L1-PD-1 interactions, suggesting that transendocytosis of CD80 is required to effectively control PD-L1-PD-1 interactions.
Sparcl1/Hevin drives inflammatory and neuropathic pain through astrocyte and NMDA receptor signaling
Authors: Chen Gang , Luo Hao , Luo Xin , Singh Sandeep K. , Ramirez Juan J. , James Michael L. , Mathew Joseph P. , Berger Miles , Eroglu Cagla , Ji Ru-Rong
Published: March 2022

Hevin/Sparcl1 is an astrocyte-secreted protein and regulates synapse formation in the brain. Here we show that astrocytic hevin signaling plays a critical role in maintaining chronic pain. Compared to wild-type mice, hevin-null mice exhibited normal mechanical and heat sensitivity but reduced inflammatory pain. Interestingly, hevin is required for the maintenance of nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain (mechanical allodynia), and hevin-null mice have faster recovery than wild-type mice from neuropathic pain after nerve injury. Intrathecal injection of wild-type hevin but not a hevin mutant that is no longer synaptogenic was sufficient to induce persistent mechanical allodynia in naïve mice and further enhanced neuropathic pain in animals with nerve injury. In hevin-null mice with nerve injury, AAV-mediated re-expression of hevin, but not mutant hevin, in GFAP-expressing spinal cord astrocytes could reinstate neuropathic pain. Mechanistically, hevin is crucial for spinal cord NMDA receptor (NMDAR) signaling, as NMDA-induced mechanical allodynia and inward currents in spinal cord lamina II neurons is reduced in hevin-null mice. Hevin potentiated NMDA currents mediated by the GluN2B-containing NMDARs. Furthermore, intrathecal injection of a neutralizing antibody against hevin alleviated acute inflammatory pain and persistent neuropathic pain. Secreted hevin was detected in mouse cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and nerve injury significantly increased CSF hevin abundance. Finally, neurosurgery caused rapid (< 10 hours) and substantial increases (~20 fold) in HEVIN levels in human CSF. Collectively, our findings support a critical role of hevin and astrocytes in the maintenance of chronic pain. Neutralizing of secreted hevin with monoclonal antibody may provide a new therapeutic strategy for treating chronic pain and NMDAR-medicated neurodegeneration.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface and computational study of 1-(9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracen-1-yl)-3-propanoylthiourea
Authors: Ifeanyieze Kenechukwu J. , Ayiya Bikimi B. , Okpareke Obinna C. , Groutso Tatiana V. , Asegbeloyin Jonnie N.
Published: March 2022

The title compound, C18H14N2O3S, crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system and Pbca space group. The thiourea chromophore is planar to an r.m.s deviation of 0.032 Å with the thiolate sulfur atom being the most deviated. Bifurcated N—H...O intramolecular hydrogen bonds result in an S(6) supramolecular synthon. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O intermolecular hydrogen-bonding interactions and stabilized by C—H...π and π–π interactions. Hirshfeld surface analysis and fingerprint plot indicate the H...H intermolecular contacts as the highest contributor to the overall surface contacts (38%) and this is supported by the high dispersive and electrostatic interaction energies.
Increasing restaurants' sales performance: linking suppliers and chefs' culinary knowledge
Authors: Wu Shu-Hua , Ku Edward C.S. , Wu Tung-Pao
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This research aimed to analyse the relationships between chefs' knowledge, learning with suppliers and restaurant sales performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A performance model was formulated, and the hypotheses were evaluated using partial least squares (PLS). The research questionnaires were sent by post to the chefs who confirmed leading for product innovation in the restaurants and yielded 166 completed questionnaires.

Findings

Whilst the chef is developing new products, restaurant operations should pay attention to the supplier's subsequent income convenience. Additionally, through the cooperation of chefs and suppliers, innovative and valuable products can improve restaurant performance and maintain a competitive advantage. Moreover, tacit knowledge sharing can become a chef's ability to learn and provide competitive advantages and benefits to restaurants.

Originality/value

Valuable products can be advantageous to restaurants and increase restaurants' operating performance. Moreover, the development of new products is important for restaurants' operations. Further, chefs will understand market trends and make the culinary innovation process closer to the market by learning from their colleagues and partners. Additionally, chefs prefer culinary creation to provide more tacit knowledge with suppliers.
Trends and patterns in pro-environmental behaviour research: a bibliometric review and research agenda
Authors: Farrukh Muhammad , Raza Ali , Mansoor Adil , Khan Muhammad Shahid , Lee Jason Wai Chow
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to analyse the current trends and set the future research agenda for pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) research.

Design/methodology/approach

The bibliographic data on pro-environmental behaviour research have been extracted from the Scopus database.

Findings

Based on the analysis of 2,173 publications, the study presents a performance overview of PEB research in the perspective of different aspects such as the most influential publications, authors, institutes and countries. Also, the study visualises the intellectual network by mapping bibliographic coupling (BC) and co-citation.

Originality/value

The study provides a holistic view of trends and future research directions for PEB research based on performance and science mapping, which is a unique contribution to the literature.
The perceived benefits of instructional coaching for teachers
Authors: Warnock Jennifer Marie , Gibson-Sweet Monica , van Nieuwerburgh Christian J.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Coaching for teachers has evolved as a form of professional development. The benefits of such interventions have been examined with regard to student, teacher and school outcomes, but the purpose of this paper is to present an investigation relating to the benefits of instructional coaching (Knight, 2006) to teachers as perceived by the teachers themselves.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilises a subjectivist approach with a constructivist paradigmatic stance (Morgan and Burrell, 1985). Eleven semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted (King, 2019) with teachers at a secondary (high) school in the UK. The data were interpreted and analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clark, 2006).

Findings

The research suggests the following four benefits to the teachers who participated in the study, which aligned well with the literature review: improved relationships, awareness, reflectiveness and enhanced practice. A fifth perceived benefit reported by the participants was positive attitude, which captured a sense of increased confidence, motivation and positivity.

Research limitations/implications

Findings were based on the self-reported data of a small sample. Therefore it is not possible to generalise the findings but Thematic Analysis was used to understand perceptions and insights in a wider context (Ritchie and Lewis, 2003). This research builds on the literature focusing on perceived benefits to teachers. Findings generally support current theoretical understanding. The results of this exploration of the teacher perception of benefits of instructional coaching in one UK school contributes to the emerging literature about the benefits of coaching. The teacher perceived benefit of positive attitude does not appear to be identified in the literature.

Practical implications

In practice, this study raised awareness of the possible benefits of coaching to educators. The authors recommend that educators, policymakers and educational leaders should further explore the potential benefits of coaching in education settings. Utilising teacher perception, the study further confirms coaching to be a useful way of supporting educators to enhance their practice.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to gain a better understanding of teacher-perceived benefits of coaching. This understanding will support school leaders and policymakers who may be considering how to best leverage coaching in educational settings.
Study on flexural behavior of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with geopolymer adhesive bonded CFRP
Authors: Liu Jinliang , Yan Fangpu
Published: March 2022

Purpose

In this paper, the effects of geopolymer adhesive, the number of CFRP layers and the width of pre-crack on the flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with CFRP were studied, and the flexural capacity of strengthened beams was calculated theoretically.

Design/methodology/approach

Reinforced concrete beams were strengthened with CFRP by geopolymer adhesive, and flexural load tests were conducted to observe the reinforcement effect. Based on the method of calculating the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams, a theoretical calculation model on the flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with geopolymer adhesive bonded CFRP was established.

Findings

The test data shown the flexural capacity of epoxy resin adhesive CFRP strengthened reinforced concrete beams is 7.76% higher than that geopolymer adhesive is used. The flexural capacity of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with three layers of CFRP is 1.86% higher than that two layers are adopted. The mean ratio of the test data and the calculation results of the flexural capacity is 0.973, and the mean square error is 0.008. It can be seen that the test data are in good agreement with the theoretical value.

Originality/value

This paper provides data support for the popularization and application of the new environment-friendly reinforcement technology, contributes to the cause of environmental protection, and provides a new method for strengthening reinforced concrete beams.
Influence of IT support on firms' cross-channel integration: the moderating role of institutional environment
Authors: Wu Xia , Li Yang , Liu Hefu , Zhang Kai
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Using dynamic capability theory, this study investigates how information technology (IT) support affects firms' online and offline cross-channel integration (CCI). In addition, it applies institutional theory to examine how the relationships between IT support and CCI are moderated by firms' institutional environments.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 308 firms in China that conduct business in online and offline channels was empirically tested through hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings

The results showed two types of IT support facilitated CCI: IT support for strategy and IT support for process. The relationship between IT support for process and CCI was stronger than that between IT support for strategy and CCI. The results further indicated institutional environment (i.e. dysfunctional competition and government support) played differing roles in these effects, such that the relationship between IT support for strategy and CCI was significantly weakened by dysfunctional competition yet enhanced by government support. However, neither dysfunctional competition nor government support had a significant moderating role in the relationship between IT support for process and CCI.

Originality/value

This study identifies different IT support types as antecedents of CCI. It is also one of the earliest attempts to explore the influence of institutional environment on the relationship between IT support and CCI.
Impact of live commerce spillover effect on supply chain decisions
Authors: Fan Tijun , Wang Le , Song Yang
Published: March 2022

Purpose

With the booming of live commerce, sellers provide products through not only their traditional channels but also the anchors who show products by live broadcast, forming a live commerce supply chain. In fact, such selling mode generates two effects: the live broadcast service of the anchor affects the return rate of products sold live (live commerce effect) and related products of the manufacturer sold via its own channel (live commerce spillover effect). In this paper, the authors investigate the impacts of both live commerce and live commerce spillover effect on the price decisions as well as the anchor's service effort.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors establish a live commerce supply chain model where the manufacturer sells related products directly and by the anchor with a wholesale price contract. The manufacturer decides the price of product sold directly based on the anchor's broadcast effort since there exists the live commerce spillover effects. Backward induction is used to solve the Stackelberg game between the manufacturer and the anchor.

Findings

The results show that (1) the existence of the live commerce spillover effect brings more profit to the manufacturer while it reduces the anchor's profit. Moreover, the total profit of the live commerce supply chain first decreases and then increases as the intensity of the live commerce spillover effect improves. (2) The pricing of products sold directly by the manufacturer and sold through the anchor is nonmonotonic with respect to the live commerce spillover effect. (3) The increase in return cost always leads to an increase in the profit of the anchor, whether it is borne by the anchor or by the consumer. (4) If the baseline return probability is high, the anchor should increase her effort, thus securing more profit. However, the spillover effect of live commerce and the horizontal differences between products will discourage the anchor from increasing the live streaming service level.

Originality/value

The study proposes the live commerce supply chain model where the anchor balances the cost and benefit of her live broadcast effort, which lowers the consumers expected return possibility. In addition the live commerce spillover effect is introduced, reducing the expected return rate for the related products without live broadcast (in the direct channel). With the inter-influence of live commerce, the price competition between the live anchor and the manufacturer becomes more complex. By solving the typical live commerce game model, managerial insights are given for the decision makers among the live commerce supply chain.
Drivers of attitudes toward luxury and counterfeit products: the moderating role of interpersonal influence
Authors: Iyer Rajesh , Babin Barry J. , Eastman Jacqueline K. , Griffin Mitch
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study explores consumers' motivations to purchase luxury and counterfeit products using an international sample. In addition, it also examines the moderating role of interpersonal influence on this process. This study seeks to examine if the consumers who demand the highest quality express a preference for luxury goods over counterfeit goods.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey research was employed to subjects from the USA, India, China and Russia. Responses from US and India consumers were collected using online software, whereas responses from China and Russia were collected with the help of a local market research firm.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate that consumers tend to show similar reactions based on the luxury and counterfeit consumption process examined here. In terms of interpersonal influence as a moderator, however, the study found it significantly impacts status seekers' attitude toward luxury and how a perfectionist shopper perceives counterfeit consumption.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first in the literature to empirically address both luxury and counterfeit consumption. Further it considers consumers from multiple countries with high levels of luxury good purchases.
Leveraging the balanced scorecard to reformulate the strategy of a performing arts theater: a stakeholders' perspective
Authors: Moores Sharon , Sayed Naqi , Lento Camillo , Wakil Gulraze
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study expands the performance management literature by developing a strategy map and balanced scorecard (BSC) for a large performing arts theater (PAT).

Design/methodology/approach

First, interviews with significant stakeholders identify key success factors (KSFs). Next, a survey is administered, and a structural model is employed to determine the importance of each KSF and their interdependent causal relationships within the PAT. Each KSF's controllability and room for improvement are also measured to facilitate implementation strategies.

Findings

The results reveal that the Financial Perspective plays a critical role in the PAT's success, while significant changes can be enacted by focusing on the Internal Processes Perspective. Regarding the individual KSF, the following emerge as the most critical: excellent reputation, attendance growth, increasing sponsorship and donation, and supporting the local arts community; however, PAT managers will have to be creative to enact change through these KSF as some are difficult to control or have little perceived room for improvement.

Research limitations/implications

The data were collected prior to, or at the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Post-pandemic priorities for the organization may have changed.

Practical implications

By highlighting the relationships between different KSFs, this study provides PAT managers with a frame of reference for developing their BSC and performance metrics. It also offers PAT's managers a structured and adaptable approach for prioritizing their strategic choices and developing implementation plans for improved outcomes.

Originality/value

This study exemplifies the need for applied BSC studies in various sectors, including nonprofit organizations. Specifically, this study extends the performance management literature by providing an example of a large PAT's performance measures, the inter-relationships among KSF and the resulting strategy map. The results are significant because arts management is a unique discipline based upon a specific body of knowledge (Weinstein and Bukovinsky, 2009).
Primary forest loss and degradation reduces biodiversity and ecosystem functioning: A global meta‐analysis using dung beetles as an indicator taxon
Authors: López‐Bedoya Pablo A. , Bohada‐Murillo Mauricio , Ángel‐Vallejo María Camila , Audino Livia Dorneles , Davis Adrian L. V. , Gurr Geoff , Noriega Jorge Ari
Published: March 2022

Because of continuing degradation or deforestation in areas of undisturbed primary forest, there is a need to study the relative merit of strategies that mitigate their impacts on biodiversity and associated ecological functionality.

Here, we provide a global synthesis of forest degradation or deforestation using 48 studies published in peer‐reviewed journals that use dung beetles as indicators given their sensitivity to anthropogenic disturbance and their relevance in performing essential ecological functions in terrestrial ecosystems.

We evaluated forest cover associated with undisturbed primary forest degradation (i.e. degraded primary forest) and undisturbed primary forest deforestation (i.e. secondary forest, forestry plantations and forestry restoration implementation) on species richness, total abundance, biomass, functional groups' presence and ecological functions provided by dung beetles. Additionally, we determined whether if dung beetle responses to forest disturbances were geographically dependent.

We found lower diversity and a decrease in ecological functions associated with all classes of disturbance in primary forest. However, the effects were less severe in the case of forest degradation compared to complete deforestation with natural regeneration of secondary forest, development of forest plantations or active forest restoration by planting indigenous trees. The Neotropical and Oriental regions are particularly vulnerable, given the elevated rates of undisturbed primary forest deforestation and its negative impact on their assemblages' diversity and ecological functions.

Synthesis and applications. Our results show that efforts for the conservation of remaining undisturbed primary forests need to be prioritized, especially in tropical latitudes. However, in regions where primary forest conservation is not feasible, logging management programs in degraded primary forest may have a potential role in reducing negative impacts for dung beetle diversity and ecological functions. Moreover, we conclude that despite the negative effect of primary forest deforestation and implementation of secondary forest, forestry plantation and forestry restoration, they can be useful for partial recovery of diversity and ecological functions performed by dung beetles in areas lacking any primary forest (undisturbed or degraded) vegetation cover.
Untargeted metabolomics by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry for food authentication: A review
Authors: Zhong Peng , Wei Xiaoqun , Li Xiangmei , Wei Xiaoyi , Wu Shaozong , Huang Weijuan , Koidis Anastasios , Xu Zhenlin , Lei Hongtao
Published: March 2022

Food fraud is currently a growing global concern with far‐reaching consequences. Food authenticity attributes, including biological identity, geographical origin, agricultural production, and processing technology, are susceptible to food fraud. Metabolic markers and their corresponding authentication methods are considered as a promising choice for food authentication. However, few metabolic markers were available to develop robust analytical methods for food authentication in routine control. Untargeted metabolomics by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) is increasingly used to discover metabolic markers. This review summarizes the general workflow, recent applications, advantages, advances, limitations, and future needs of untargeted metabolomics by LC‐MS for identifying metabolic markers in food authentication. In conclusion, untargeted metabolomics by LC‐MS shows great efficiency to discover the metabolic markers for the authenticity assessment of biological identity, geographical origin, agricultural production, processing technology, freshness, cause of animals’ death, and so on, through three main steps, namely, data acquisition, biomarker discovery, and biomarker validation. The application prospects of the selected markers by untargeted metabolomics require to be valued, and the selected markers need to be eventually applicable at targeted analysis assessing the authenticity of unknown food samples.
Microbiota‐microglia connections in age‐related cognition decline
Authors: Zhou Rui , Qian Shufang , Cho William C. S. , Zhou Jinyun , Jin Chentao , Zhong Yan , Wang Jing , Zhang Xiaohui , Xu Zhoujiao , Tian Mei , Chan Lawrence W. C. , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2022

Aging is an inevitable process that all individuals experience, of which the extent differs among individuals. It has been recognized as the risk factor of neurodegenerative diseases by affecting gut microbiota compositions, microglia, and cognition abilities. Aging‐induced changes in gut microbiota compositions have a critical role in orchestrating the morphology and functions of microglia through the gut‐brain axis. Gut microbiota communicates with microglia by its secreted metabolites and neurotransmitters. This is highly associated with age‐related cognitive declines. Here, we review the main composition of microbiota in the aged individuals, outline the changes of the brain in age‐related cognitive decline from a neuroinflammation perspective, especially the changes of morphology and functions of microglia, discuss the crosstalk between microbiota and microglia in the aged brain and further highlight the role of microbiota‐microglia connections in neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease).
Maternal and neonatal outcomes of women with gestational diabetes and without specific medical conditions: an Australian population‐based study comparing induction of labor with expectant management
Authors: Seimon Radhika V. , Natasha Nassar , Schneuer Francisco J. , Pereira Gavin , Mackie Adam , Ross Glynis P. , Sweeting Arianne N. , Seeho Sean K. M. , Hocking Samantha L.
Published: March 2022

Background/aims

To evaluate maternal birth and neonatal outcomes among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but without specific medical conditions and eligible for vaginal birth who underwent induction of labour (IOL) at term compared with those who were expectantly managed.

Materials and methods

Population‐based cohort study of women with GDM, but without medical conditions, who had a singleton, cephalic birth at 38–41 completed weeks gestation, in New South Wales, Australia between January 2010 and December 2016. Women who underwent IOL at 38, 39, 40 weeks gestation (38‐, 39‐, 40‐induction groups) were compared with those who were managed expectantly and gave birth at and/or beyond the respective gestational age group (38‐, 39‐, 40‐expectant groups). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between IOL and adverse maternal birth and neonatal outcomes taking into account potential confounding by maternal age, country of birth, smoking, residential location, residential area of socioeconomic disadvantage and birth year.

Results

Of 676 762 women who gave birth during the study period, 66 606 (10%) had GDM; of these, 34799 met the inclusion criteria. Compared with expectant management, those in 38‐ (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.11; 95% CI, 1.04–1.18), 39‐ (aOR 1.21; 95% CI, 1.14–1.28) and 40‐ (aOR 1.50; 95% CI, 1.40–1.60) induction groups had increased risk of caesarean section. Women in the 38‐induction group also had an increased risk of composite neonatal morbidity (aOR 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01–1.21), which was not observed at 39‐ and 40‐induction groups. We found no difference between groups in perinatal death or neonatal intensive care unit admission for births at any gestational age.

Conclusion

In women with GDM but without specific medical conditions and eligible for vaginal birth, IOL at 38, 39, 40 weeks gestation is associated with an increased risk of caesarean section.
Activity and toxicity of intramuscular 1000 iu/m2 polyethylene glycol‐E. coliL‐asparaginase in the UKALL 2003 and UKALL 2011 clinical trials
Authors: Sidhu Jasmeet , Masurekar Ashish Narayan , Gogoi Manash Pratim , Fong Caroline , Ioannou Tasos , Lodhi Taha , Parker Catriona , Liu Jizhong , Kirkwood Amy A. , Moorman Anthony V. , Das Kiranmoy , Goulden Nicholas J. , Vora Ajay , Saha Vaskar , Krishnan Shekhar
Published: March 2022

In successive UK clinical trials (UKALL 2003, UKALL 2011) for paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), polyethylene glycol‐conjugated E. coli L‐asparaginase (PEG‐EcASNase) 1000 iu/m2 was administered intramuscularly with risk‐stratified treatment. In induction, patients received two PEG‐EcASNase doses, 14 days apart. Post‐induction, non‐high‐risk patients (Regimens A, B) received 1–2 doses in delayed intensification (DI) while high‐risk Regimen C patients received 6–10 PEG‐EcASNase doses, including two in DI. Trial substudies monitored asparaginase (ASNase) activity, ASNase‐related toxicity and ASNase‐associated antibodies (total, 1112 patients). Median (interquartile range) trough plasma ASNase activity (14 ± 2 days post dose) following first and second induction doses and first DI dose was respectively 217 iu/l (144–307 iu/l), 265 iu/l (165–401 iu/l) and 292 iu/l (194–386 iu/l); 15% (138/910) samples showed subthreshold ASNase activity (<100 iu/l) at any trough time point. Older age was associated with lower (regression coefficient −9.5; p < 0.0001) and DI time point with higher ASNase activity (regression coefficient 29.9; p < 0.0001). Clinical hypersensitivity was observed in 3.8% (UKALL 2003) and 6% (UKALL 2011) of patients, and in 90% or more in Regimen C. A 7% (10/149) silent inactivation rate was observed in UKALL 2003. PEG‐EcASNase schedule in UKALL paediatric trials is associated with low toxicity but wide interpatient variability. Therapeutic drug monitoring potentially permits optimisation through individualised asparaginase dosing.
Rehearsing post‐Covid‐19 citizenship: Social representations of UK Covid‐19 mutual aid
Authors: O’Dwyer Emma , Souza Luiz Gustavo Silva , Beascoechea‐Seguí Neus
Published: March 2022

People across the world have responded to the pandemic by mobilizing and organizing to support their communities, setting up mutual aid groups to provide practical, financial, and social support. Mutual aid means short‐term 'crisis response' for some, while for other groups, it is a chance to radically restructure society, and what it means to be a member of that society. Drawing on social representations theory and previous work on citizenship in social and political psychology, we examined the ways in which mutual aid was understood and performed by members of UK Covid‐19 mutual aid groups. We conducted 29 interviews with members of these groups in May/June 2020. A reflexive thematic analysis showed that mutual aid groups were characterized as complex, efficient, and non‐hierarchical units, operating on the principles of solidarity, kindness, and trust. Two tensions were evident in the data, specifically between (1) collaboration with existing organizations and structures (e.g., local government and the police), and resistance to it and (2) maximizing group inclusivity and sustaining political critique. Findings are discussed in relation to existing theoretical and empirical work on citizenship and mutual aid groups.
Molecular genetic testing in the management of pituitary disease
Authors: Coopmans Eva C. , Korbonits Márta
Published: March 2022

Objective

Most pituitary tumours occur sporadically without a genetically identifiable germline abnormality, a small but increasing proportion present with a genetic defect that predisposes to pituitary tumour development, either isolated (e.g., aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐interacting protein, AIP) or as part of a tumour‐predisposing syndrome (e.g., multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 1, Carney complex, McCune‐Albright syndrome or pituitary tumour and paraganglioma association). Genetic alterations in sporadic pituitary adenomas may include somatic mutations (e.g., GNAS, USP8). In this review, we take a practical approach: which genetic syndromes should be considered in case of different presentation, such as tumour type, family history, age of onset and additional clinical features of the patient.

Design

Review of the recent literature in the field of genetics of pituitary tumours.

Results

Genetic testing in the management of pituitary disease is recommended in a significant minority of the cases. Understanding the genetic basis of the disease helps to identify patients and at‐risk family members, facilitates early diagnosis and therefore better long‐term outcome and opens up new pathways leading to tumorigenesis.

Conclusion

We provide a concise overview of the genetics of pituitary tumours and discuss the current challenges and implications of these genetic findings in clinical practice.
The corporate governance consequences of small shareholdings: Evidence from sovereign wealth fund cross‐border investments
Authors: Chen Ruiyuan (Ryan) , El Ghoul Sadok , Guedhami Omrane , Liu Feiyu
Published: March 2022

Research Question/Issue

Existing research on sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) has largely explored how they affect target firm value, overlooking the role they play in corporate governance. This paper examines the impact of SWFs' cross‐border equity acquisitions on targets' corporate governance and the role the institutional environment of SWF countries plays in shaping this impact.

Research Findings/Insights

We use a difference‐in‐differences approach and find that, on average, SWF investments are negatively related to target firms' corporate governance. This impact holds for small SWF cross‐border equity investments only and is stronger for firms that are weakly governed and for those located in jurisdictions with weak shareholder protection. The negative relation is more pronounced when SWFs' home countries have lower‐quality investor protection, corruption control, governmental effectiveness, and law enforcement than their host countries. We find further that SWF investments are positively associated with target firms' earnings management and negatively associated with investment efficiency. Finally, target firm value is found to decrease after SWF investments.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The evidence that SWFs' small equity investments are detrimental to target firms' corporate governance is broadly consistent with the view that SWFs are passive investors. Managers can exploit this passivity, as evidenced by higher earnings management, reduced investment efficiency, and lower firm value.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study has important policy implications for investors, SWF managers, and policymakers. The passive role of SWFs in corporate governance should prompt minority shareholders to look for alternative monitoring mechanisms. Moreover, SWF managers may realize the need to target firms with strong corporate governance at the outset to compensate for the post‐acquisition decline. Host country policymakers may need to condition SWF investments on commitments to improve the corporate governance of investee firms, which would be akin to the performance requirements imposed on inward foreign direct investment (FDI). This is particularly relevant for SWFs from countries with weak institutions that are targeting countries with strong institutions.
“The Best of Both Worlds”: Experiences of young people attending groups co‐facilitated by peer workers and clinicians in a youth mental health service
Authors: King Alicia Jean , Simmons Magenta Bender
Published: March 2022

Aim

Groups facilitated by peer workers have been shown to be effective in improving recovery‐related outcomes in adult populations. However, limited research has explored the involvement of peer workers in groups in youth mental health services. This qualitative study aimed to explore young people's experiences of participating in groups co‐facilitated by youth peer workers and clinicians.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 13 young people aged 15–25 years who had attended groups conducted in‐person and online at a tertiary youth mental health service. Young people were receiving individual support through the service for a range of mental health concerns. Groups were conducted by two clinicians and a youth peer worker who had used the same service and had undergone training in Intentional Peer Support®. An inductive approach using open, process, in vivo and pattern coding was used to identify key themes. Concept mapping was used to explore the relationships between them.

Results

Nine overarching themes were identified that highlighted the unique and complementary contributions of youth peer worker and clinician roles. The sharing of lived experience by youth peer workers facilitated young people's engagement in group discussions, hope for the future, and sense of belonging, whereas clinical input created a sense of safety, structure and purpose.

Conclusions

These findings support the value of a co‐facilitation model in improving the engagement and recovery outcomes for young people experiencing mental health challenges.
Approaching intersectionality through metonymy: Coloniality and recursion at work
Authors: Riad Sally , Jones Deborah
Published: March 2022

This paper critically engages with intersectionality in an effort to counter its development into a reified ground and grid for examining and articulating difference in organization studies. We theorize intersectionality as frame/work and problematize the work of its frame through the disruptions and recursions of coloniality. We turn to metonymy for the analytical and conceptual possibilities it offers for interrogating intersectionality and examining the dynamics of difference and power. We analyze engagements with Kara Walker's artwork, Sugar Baby, which invite us to think about intersectionality in metonymic terms. We offer a double reading of this work of representation. The first reading outlines (re)productions and ironic subversions of metonymies of work, race, and gender, while the second scrutinizes them and forwards the significance of positionality and provisionality in intersectional work on coloniality. In doing so, we cultivate intersectionality as a critical idea but also submit it to critical analysis. By theorizing intersectionality as frame/work, we counter its metonymic role as proxy for diverse possibilities for engaging with difference and thereby confront its power dynamics. In closing, we outline the contributions to organizational research and contemplate the implications for “doing intersectionality” in organization studies.
Granulomas associated with renal neoplasms: A multi‐institutional clinicopathological study of 111 cases
Authors: Sangoi Ankur R , Maclean Fiona , Mohanty Sambit , Hes Ondrej , Daniel Reba , Lal Priti , Canete‐Portillo Sofia , Magi‐Galluzzi Cristina , Cornejo Kristine M , Collins Katrina , Hwang Michael , Falzarano Sara M , Feely Mike M , Dababneh Melad , Harik Lara , Tretiakova Maria , Akgul Mahmut , Manucha Varsha , Chan Emily , Kao Chia‐Sui , Siadat Farshid , Arora Kanika , Barkan Guliz , Cheng Liang , Hirsch Michelle , Lei Li , Wasco Matthew , Williamson Sean R , Acosta Andres M
Published: March 2022

Aims

Formal depiction of granulomatous inflammation associated with renal neoplasms has mainly consisted of case reports. Herein, we investigate the clinicopathological features and potential significance of granulomas associated with renal tumours from a large multi‐institutional cohort.

Methods and results

One hundred and eleven study cases were collected from 22 institutions, including 57 partial nephrectomies and 54 radical nephrectomies. Patient ages ranged from 27 to 85 years (average = 60.1 years; male = 61%). Renal neoplasms included clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC; 86%), papillary RCC (8%), chromophobe RCC (3%), clear cell papillary RCC (1%), mixed epithelial stromal tumour (1%) and oncocytoma (1%). Granulomas were peritumoral in 36%, intratumoral in 24% and both in 40% of cases. Total granuloma count per case ranged from one to 300 (median = 15) with sizes ranging from 0.15 to 15 mm (mean = 1.9 mm). Necrotising granulomas were seen in 14% of cases. Histochemical stains for organisms were performed on 45% of cases (all negative). Sixteen cases (14%) had a prior biopsy/procedure performed, and eight patients had neoadjuvant immunotherapy or chemotherapy. Eleven patients (10%) had a confirmed diagnosis of sarcoidosis, including five in whom sarcoidosis was diagnosed after nephrectomy.

Conclusion

Based on this largest case‐series to date, peri−/intratumoral granulomas associated with renal neoplasms may be more common than initially perceived. The extent of granulomatous inflammation can vary widely and may or may not have necrosis with possible aetiologies, including prior procedure or immunotherapy/chemotherapy. Although a clinical association with sarcoidosis is infrequent it can still occur, and the presence of granulomas warrants mention in pathology reports.
A critical analysis of research methods and experimental models to study working length determination and the performance of apex locators – A narrative review with recommendations for the future
Authors: ElAyouti Ashraf , Connert Thomas , Dummer Paul , Löst Claus
Published: March 2022

Outcome studies have repeatedly shown that the apical endpoint of root canal preparation and filling is a determinate factor for the outcome of root canal treatment. Accurate determination of root canal length enhances the efficacy of chemo‐mechanical disinfection and prevents over‐/under‐instrumentation and over‐/under‐filling in relation to the canal terminus. Long and short root canal fillings are consistently reported to be associated with higher rates of post‐treatment endodontic disease. Although standards for undertaking and reporting diagnostic accuracy studies are available, publications dealing with the determination of root canal length are highly heterogeneous and describe procedures inconsistently. The aim of this review is to critically assess the methodology of publications in the past three decades. The process of planning, performing and analysing working length studies are presented stepwise with suggestions to optimize research methods.
Water immersion skin wrinkling: modulation by common participant characteristics
Authors: Kava Jonathon , Dunlap Emily , Tanaka Hirofumi
Published: March 2022

Background

Water immersion skin wrinkling (WISW) has been used as a noninvasive test of a limb's sympathetic function. To date, research has not sufficiently explored this phenomenon. The primary aim of this study was to determine the impact of common individual characteristics on WISW.

Methods

Demographic information was collected on 39 apparently healthy adults varying widely in age. Each participant submerged one hand in 40°C water for 30 minutes. The degree of WISW was assessed using computer software. Because WISW is often associated with peripheral edema and facial wrinkling, we also evaluated facial wrinkling and hand volume expansion following prolonged immersion.

Results

Sex, body mass index, and physical activity habits were not correlated with any of the WISW measures. Age was a predictor of the WISW score (β = −0.38, P = 0.02, R2 = 0.15). WISW score was significantly lower for participants who reported relevant medical history (cardiovascular, pulmonary, or psychological) than those with no such report. WISW was not associated with face wrinkling or hand volume expansion.

Conclusion

We concluded that WISW was reduced in older age and those with medical history but was not affected by physical activity. These results are consistent with the prevalent notion that WISW may be a sympathetically mediated phenomenon.
Research Review: How to interpret associations between polygenic scores, environmental risks, and phenotypes
Authors: Pingault Jean‐Baptiste , Allegrini Andrea G. , Odigie Tracy , Frach Leonard , Baldwin Jessie R. , Rijsdijk Frühling , Dudbridge Frank
Published: March 2022

Background

Genetic influences are ubiquitous as virtually all phenotypes and most exposures typically classified as environmental have been found to be heritable. A polygenic score summarises the associations between millions of genetic variants and an outcome in a single value for each individual. Ever lowering costs have enabled the genotyping of many samples relevant to child psychology and psychiatry research, including cohort studies, leading to the proliferation of polygenic score studies. It is tempting to assume that associations detected between polygenic scores and phenotypes in those studies only reflect genetic effects. However, such associations can reflect many pathways (e.g. via environmental mediation) and biases.

Methods

Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the many reasons why associations between polygenic scores, environmental exposures, and phenotypes exist. We include formal representations of common analyses in polygenic score studies using structural equation modelling. We derive biases, provide illustrative empirical examples and, when possible, mention steps that can be taken to alleviate those biases.

Results

Structural equation models and derivations show the many complexities arising from jointly modelling polygenic scores with environmental exposures and phenotypes. Counter‐intuitive examples include that: (a) associations between polygenic scores and phenotypes may exist even in the absence of direct genetic effects; (b) associations between child polygenic scores and environmental exposures can exist in the absence of evocative/active gene–environment correlations; and (c) adjusting an exposure‐outcome association for a polygenic score can increase rather than decrease bias.

Conclusions

Strikingly, using polygenic scores may, in some cases, lead to more bias than not using them. Appropriately conducting and interpreting polygenic score studies thus requires researchers in child psychology and psychiatry and beyond to be versed in both epidemiological and genetic methods or build on interdisciplinary collaborations.