bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role and molecular mechanism of ghrelin in degenerative musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Sun Jianfeng , Tan Yibo , Su Jingyue , Mikhail Herasimenka , Pavel Volotovski , Deng Zhenhan , Li Yusheng
Published: September 2023

Ghrelin is a brain‐gut peptide, and the first 28‐peptide that was found in the gastric mucosa. It has a growth hormone (GH)‐releasing hormone‐like effect and can potently promote the release of GH from pituitary GH cells; however, it is unable to stimulate GH synthesis. Therefore, ghrelin is believed to play a role in promoting bone growth and development. The correlation between ghrelin and some degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system has been reported recently, and ghrelin may be one of the factors influencing degenerative pathologies, such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia and intervertebral disc degeneration. With population ageing, the risk of health problems caused by degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system gradually increases. In this article, the roles of ghrelin in musculoskeletal disorders are summarized to reveal the potential effects of ghrelin as a key target in the treatment of related bone and muscle diseases and the need for further research.
Universities in inclusive regional innovation systems: Academic engagement and uneven knowledge use in Brazil
Authors: Rapini Marcia Siqueira , Chiarini Tulio , Stein Alexandre de Queiroz
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this paper is to spatially and regionally examine academic engagement within Brazil, identifying patterns. Moreover, our investigation can contribute to a better understanding of how knowledge can be turned into a tool to fight regional inequality. We depart from two hypotheses: first, universities situated in peripheral regions interact more with companies from relatively more dynamic regions, and second, in the absence of industrial knowledge demand, universities tend to collaborate more closely with a diverse range of stakeholders in the region. To evaluate these hypotheses and find empirical evidence, we consider 4497 research groups and 4603 nonacademic organizations as “nodes” connected by 8830 collaborations throughout all Brazilian regions. Social network tools are used to illustrate the spatial and regional dimensions of academic engagement more accurately. The results show that academic engagement is not regionally homogeneous, demonstrating essential differences regarding local nonacademic partnerships. Innovation policies, which encourage only university–firm interactions, perpetuate regional inequality.
Granger causality tests based on reduced variable information
Authors: Tseng Neng‐Fang , Hung Ying‐Chao , Nakano Junji
Published: September 2023

Granger causality is a classical and important technique for measuring predictability from one group of time series to another by incorporating information of the variables described by a full vector autoregressive (VAR) process. However, in some applications economic forecasts need to be made based on information provided merely by a portion of variates (e.g., removal of a listed stock due to halting, suspension or delisting). This requires a new formulation of forecast based on an embedded subprocess of VAR, whose theoretical properties are often difficult to obtain. To avoid the issue of identifying the VAR subprocess, we propose a computation‐based approach so that sophisticated predictions can be made by utilizing a reduced variable information set estimated from sampled data. Such estimated information set allows us to develop a suitable statistical hypothesis testing procedure for characterizing all designated Granger causal relationships, as well as a useful graphical tool for presenting the causal structure over the prediction horizon. Finally, simulated data and a real example from the stock markets are used to illustrate the proposed method.
External validation of a United Kingdom primary‐care Cushing's prediction tool in a population of referred Dutch dogs
Authors: Ruijter Bart Eduardus Wilhelmus , Bik Céline Anne , Schofield Imogen , Niessen Stijn Johannes Maria
Published: September 2023

Background

A prediction tool was developed and internally validated to aid the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome in dogs attending UK primary‐care practices. External validation is an important part of model validation to assess model performance when used in different populations.

Objectives

To assess the original prediction model's transportability, applicability, and diagnostic performance in a secondary‐care practice in the Netherlands.

Animals

Two hundred thirty client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Retrospective observational study. Medical records of dogs under investigation of Cushing's syndrome between 2011 and 2020 were reviewed. Dogs diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome by the attending internists and fulfilling ALIVE criteria were defined as cases, others as non‐cases. All dogs were scored using the aforementioned prediction tool. Dog characteristics and predictor‐outcome effects in development and validation data sets were compared to assess model transportability. Calibration and discrimination were examined to assess model performance.

Results

Eighty of 230 dogs were defined as cases. Significant differences in dog characteristics were found between UK primary‐care and Dutch secondary‐care populations. Not all predictors from the original model were confirmed to be significant predictors in the validation sample. The model systematically overestimated the probability of having Cushing's syndrome (a = −1.10, P < .001). Calibration slope was 1.35 and discrimination proved excellent (area under the receiver operating curve = 0.83).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The prediction model had moderate transportability, excellent discriminatory ability, and overall overestimated probability of having Cushing's syndrome. This study confirms its utility, though emphasizes that ongoing validation efforts of disease prediction tools are a worthwhile effort.
Molar‐incisor‐malformation in a paediatric cancer patient: Case report
Authors: Tosiou Athina , Mastrokalou Andriana , Prasad Hari S. , Tosios Konstantinos I. , Koutlas Ioannis G.
Published: September 2023

Aim

To report a case of molar‐incisor‐malformation (MIM) in a 7‐year‐old boy with a history of congenital infantile fibrosarcoma of the upper chest, which was surgically treated, without adjuvant radio/chemotherapy.

Material and Methods

The boy presented with mobility and pain on percussion of the permanent mandibular first molars. The radiographic features were suggestive of MIM. Both teeth were extracted and processed for conventional light microscopic examination and non‐decalcified ground sections.

Results

The microscopic features confirmed the diagnosis of MIM. Regular follow‐up was recommended.

Conclusions

Medical interventions during hospitalization for cancer treatment, other than chemo/radiotherapy, may cause MIM by adversely affecting the function of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath. Regular dental screening in paediatric cancer patients may reveal more MIM cases and help in elucidating its pathogenesis.
Acute pacing threshold elevation during simultaneous Micra leadless pacemaker implantation and AV node ablation: Clinical cases, computer model and practical recommendations
Authors: Racine Hugo‐Pierre , Dognin Nicolas , Zhao Yanzhu , Plourde Benoit , Steinberg Christian , Whitman Teresa , Philippon François
Published: September 2023

Background

In patients with refractory atrial fibrillation (AF), atrioventricular nodal (AVN) ablation and permanent pacemaker implantation is recommended. The Micra Transcatheter Pacing System (Micra) is a single chamber leadless pacemaker (LPM) and thus offers the possibility of AV node (AVN) ablation in the same procedure. Pacing threshold (PT) elevation after radiofrequency (RF) ablation is a potential complication.

Methods

We conducted a single center retrospective cohort study. Patients implanted with a Micra (n = 84) and concomitant or delayed AVN ablation (n = 12) from 2014 to 2022 were included. Two cases of acute Micra PT elevation immediately following RF AVN ablation required device retrieval and implantation of a new Micra. Procedural characteristics and electrophysiological parameters were analyzed, and a computer model was performed to determine factors responsible for acute PT elevations.

Results

A total of 84 patients were included. Mean age was 74 ± 10 and 48% were women. Twelve patients (14%) underwent AVN ablation. Two patients had acute PT elevation requiring device retrieval despite no direct contact of the ablation catheter with the Micra. Computer modeling shows that significant dissipated power due to electrical field coupling can occur at the tip or ring electrode if the catheter is not kept at a safe distance (≥35 mm) from the Micra when a maximum power of 100 W is delivered.

Conclusion

Concurrent AVN ablation and Micra implantation is safe in most patients. To prevent acute PT elevation, keeping a safe distance of ≥35 mm from the tip and ring electrodes of the Micra and using lower power output may prevent this complication.
A streak through history: Solving the riddle of chlorotic streak disease of sugarcane
Authors: Earsman Ruby G. , Young Anthony J.
Published: September 2023

Until recently, the identity of the pathogen of chlorotic streak disease (CSD) was one of the most enduring mysteries of sugarcane pathology. The mystery continued when the causal agent was revealed as a member of a large group of free‐living eukaryotic microbes that had not previously been associated with any plant diseases. CSD has impacted worldwide sugarcane production since at least the 1920s when it was first noticed simultaneously in Java, Australia and Hawaii. Readily identified by irregular, yellow to creamy‐white chlorotic streaks on the leaves, the identity of the pathogen remained unknown for 90 years. CSD negatively affects germination speed, ratooning, stalk numbers and stalk weight, and later causes stunting of crop growth, leading to major losses in sugar production. Prior to the discovery of the pathogen, CSD was found to be waterborne and spread by infected vegetative propagation material. As such it is particularly damaging in poorly drained soils and areas subject to high rainfall. In severe cases it can lead to crop death. The implementation of successful CSD management strategies has been limited by the lack of knowledge surrounding the nature of this disease. However, these strategies are likely to be augmented with the recent identification of the causal agent, a novel cercozoan described as Phytocercomonas venanatans. This review provides insight into the history, causal agent and potential future developments of CSD management strategies.
Catalases mediate tobacco resistance to virus infection through crosstalk between salicylic acid and auxin signaling pathways
Authors: Huang Wanying , Jiao Bolei , Ji Chenglong , Peng Qiding , Zhou Jingya , Yang Yiting , Xi Dehui
Published: September 2023

Catalases (CATs) play important roles in plant growth, development and defense responses. Previous studies have shown that CATs exhibit different or even opposite effects on plant immunity in different plant–pathogen interactions, but little is known about the mechanisms. In this study, Nicotiana tabacum plants with overexpression or knockout of CAT genes, tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) were employed to investigate the role of CAT in compatible plant–virus interactions. The results showed that there were dynamic changes in the effect of CAT on N. tabacum defense responses. Overexpression of catalase 1 (CAT1) and catalase 3 (CAT3) improved N. tabacum resistance in the early stage of virus infection but depressed it during the late stages of pathogenesis, especially in CAT3 overexpressing plants. The lower level of electrolyte leakage, lower contents of malonaldehyde and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), higher activities of antioxidant enzymes and improved functions of photosystem II corresponded to the milder symptoms and higher resistance of infected tobacco plants. In addition, the infection of TMV and CMV resulted in expression changes of CATs in tobacco plants, and pretreatment with H2O2 facilitated TMV and CMV infection. Further experiments showed that the content of salicylic acid (SA) and the expression of genes related to SA signaling pathway were positively correlated with plant resistance, whereas auxin and its related signaling pathway were related to the viral susceptibility of plants. Taken together, our results demonstrated that CAT1 and CAT3 mediated tobacco resistance to virus infection through crosstalk between SA and auxin signaling pathways.
Electroencephalography spectral coherence analysis during cycle ergometry in low‐ and high‐tolerant individuals
Authors: Bigliassi Marcelo , Cabral Danylo F. , Kotler Steven , Mannino Michael , Mavrantza Angeliki M. , Oparina Ekaterina , Gomes‐Osman Joyce
Published: September 2023

The main objective of this study was to further understanding of the patterns of spectral connectivity during exercise in low‐ and high‐tolerant individuals. Thirty‐nine healthy individuals (i.e., 17 low‐ and 22 high‐tolerant participants) took part in the present study. A state‐of‐the‐art portable electroencephalography system was used to measure the brain's electrical activity during an incremental exercise test performed until the point of volitional exhaustion on a cycle ergometer. Spectral coherence was used to explore the patterns of connectivity in the frontal, central, and parietal regions of the brain. Physiological, perceptual, and affective responses were assessed throughout the exercise bout. The spontaneous eyeblink rate was also calculated prior to commencement and upon completion of the exercise trial as an indirect assessment of the dopaminergic system. The present findings indicate that high‐tolerant individuals reported lower levels of perceived activation, especially during the preliminary stages of the exercise test. Participants in the high‐tolerance group also reported greater levels of remembered pleasure upon completion of the exercise test. The data also revealed that high‐tolerant individuals exhibited increased connectivity of theta waves between frontal, central, and parietal electrode sites and increased connectivity of beta waves, primarily within the parietal cortex. Correlational analysis indicated the possibility that low‐ and high‐tolerant individuals make use of different neural networks to process and regulate their psychophysiological state during exercise‐related situations. This strategy could potentially represent a conscious decision to downregulate affective arousal and facilitate the neural control of working muscles during situations of physical stress.
China and the global water conventions in light of recent developments: Time to take a second look?
Authors: Devlaeminck David J. , Huang Xisheng
Published: September 2023

China is an important yet often misunderstood upstream neighbour on many transboundary watercourses. In 1997, after participating in the drafting process of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non‐navigational Uses of International Watercourses, China, along with Burundi and Turkey, voted against the Convention. Since that time, however, both China’s practice and the law of international watercourses have evolved. In explanation of its vote, China provided four reasons including a lack of general agreement, that the Convention did not recognize sovereignty, that select provisions were imbalanced and disagreement regarding mandatory dispute settlement mechanisms. This article aims to revisit these reasons in light of recent developments and our current understanding of Chinese practice and international water law, asking the question: is it time for China to take a second look? Although China’s vote concerned the Watercourses Convention, given their complementarity, this article will discuss these reasons in relation to both global water conventions, the 1997 Watercourses Convention and the 1992 Water Convention.
Evolving normativity in contemporary international water law: A communicative approach to the growing role of non‐state actors
Authors: Su Yu
Published: September 2023

Legitimacy issues in international law have traditionally related to State consent and legality. This State‐centric paradigm, largely built upon legal formalism, fails to fully capture the various forms of participation of non‐State actors (NSAs) in international water law and their impacts. This is especially true in the context of water governance which, as part of global governance, witnessed an increased delegation of decision‐making authority to global institutions and a growing distance between those exercising authority and the public. This article argues that the communicative approach, embedded within international law, can better account for the role of NSAs in the development of norms in international water law, as these legal norms are formed and developed through communication among actors. Public participation, the main avenue through which NSAs participate in international water law, is essentially a communicative process. Therefore, the essential elements of the communicative approach, including inclusiveness, access to information, interaction and continuation, play not only a constitutive but also a functional role in public participation. Together, they combine to form an analytical framework which can be applied to the analysis of the participation of NSAs in international water law.
The Dispute over the Status and Use of the Waters of the Silala case and the customary rules on the definition of international watercourse
Authors: Kong Lingjie
Published: September 2023

The International Court of Justice is to determine, in the Dispute over the Status and Use of the Waters of the Silala case, the international status of the waters in question by customary rules of international law. In its identification of the existence and contents of the applicable rules on the definition of international watercourse, the Court may refer to the United Nations Watercourses Convention, other international instruments, State practice and international jurisprudence. The decisive fact for finding an international watercourse is that the components of the watercourse are situated in two or more States. Difficulties may lie in the determination of the components of the watercourse and their physical relationships. The Court may have to decide whether the status of waters can be altered by artificial means by certain general principles of the law of international watercourses.
Payments for ecosystem services in transboundary water allocation cases: An approach for China and its neighbours
Authors: Qin Tianbao , Gu Jin
Published: September 2023

Given the geographical characteristics of river basins, a unidirectional externality problem exists between upstream and downstream countries. Current legal mechanisms include remedial measures that address negative externalities, such as pollution, but fail to recognize or provide systems to reward positive externalities that benefit downstream countries. Payments for ecosystem services (PES), which are widely applied to domestic water quality advancement practices, could be extended to transboundary water allocation cases to mitigate this conflict and balance the interests of upstream and downstream States, providing incentives for both to conserve riverine ecosystems. The PES approach is consistent with the principles of international water law and founded on similar domestic and international practices. Drawing on these experiences and a cooperative approach, China could negotiate PES with its downstream neighbours in transboundary water allocation cases. The PES mechanism could also be applied to similar disputes among other primarily upper‐riparian States and their neighbours.
The role of proportionality in the law of transboundary waters
Authors: Mahbub Nabaat Tasnima
Published: September 2023

Equitable and reasonable utilization, the core substantive rule of the law of transboundary waters, requires the utilization of transboundary waters by States, considering the needs and interests of other States. This implies that the uses and benefits of transboundary waters should be shared in proportion to each basin State’s needs. Such needs are calculated through the consideration and balancing of factors associated with the rule of equitable and reasonable utilization. However, the formulation of the rule in the 1997 Convention on the Law of the Non‐navigational Uses of International Watercourses does not prescribe how the balancing between competing needs of the transboundary watercourse States may be achieved. This article argues that the principle of proportionality can play a role in facilitating the equitable balancing between the competing needs of States in transboundary river basins. Proportionality can also play a role in informing the balancing inherent in other substantive and procedural rules and dispute resolution in the law of transboundary waters. The article further examines the role of proportionality in benefit‐sharing practices in transboundary river basins, where States have adopted a proportionate cost–benefit‐sharing approach. The article uses China as an example to understand the role of proportionality in informing Chinese transboundary water treaties.
Support for young farmers in the European Union: How much discretion for Member States?
Authors: Gall Anna Florentine , Bader Clara Lina , Alblas Edwin
Published: September 2023

Generational renewal is at the heart of the European Union's (EU) agricultural priorities embedded in the Green Deal and Farm to Fark Strategy, since young farmers not only play a vital role in ensuring the competitiveness of European agriculture but also have significant potential in transitioning towards a sustainable agri‐food system. However, the number of young farmers across the EU has been rapidly decreasing over time. To address this issue and enable better access of young people to the farming profession, the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) lays down various mechanisms to support young farmers. In case C‐119/20, the Court of Justice of the EU took important steps to clarify the exact degree of discretion for Member States in terms of these support schemes, specifically on the definition of a ‘young farmer’, as well as the possibility to accumulate different types of financial support under the CAP. This case note presents the reasoning behind the Court's judgement, before discussing the judgements' impact on young (female) farmers in light of the goal of fostering generational renewal in rural areas and a transformation towards a sustainable agri‐food system. We conclude that the Court's decision might threaten to meet the goal of generational renewal, along with associated sustainability goals.
The ‘White Male Effect’ in perceptions of risk of dying from COVID‐19
Authors: Luo Ekim , Schnall Simone
Published: September 2023

During the COVID‐19 pandemic people had to gauge their personal health risks in order to decide which protective behaviors to adopt. We explored whether mortality risk perceptions varied by demographic background. Using data from a nationally representative U.S. survey, we analyzed bi‐weekly mortality estimates of 8339 individuals from 1 April 2020 to 21 July 2021. Consistent with a White Male Effect, White men estimated the risk of death to be lower than White women, non‐White men, and non‐White women. Furthermore, when linking those estimates to the actual risk of dying from COVID‐19, as reflected in official fatality rates recorded by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), White men were indeed less likely to die from the coronavirus than would be expected based on their proportion of the populations. In contrast, deaths in non‐White men and non‐White women were higher than would be expected. Thus, subjective risk perceptions tracked objective mortality risks. Because White men tend to disproportionally hold positions with high decision‐making power, although biased risk estimates may be less likely to have negative consequences for themselves, they may be especially detrimental to those for whom such decisions are made.
Responses of water‐stable aggregates, their associated organic carbon and crop yield to the application of biogas slurry in a fluvo‐aquic soil of the North China plain
Authors: Tang Jiao , Pan Feifei , Davy Anthony J. , Yin Jinzhong , Wu Dafu , Yang Qinghua
Published: September 2023

Crop productivity under intensive agriculture depends on the maintenance of fertility and soil structure. Chemical fertilizers are effective in supplying nutrients for crops but eventually lead to loss of the soil organic carbon that is important in supporting soil structure. Biogas slurry is an alternative to chemical fertilizers that potentially can both provide nutrients and promote organic carbon content. A field experiment was conducted to compare the effects of applying biogas slurry (BS), chemical fertilizer (CF) or a combination of both with 50% of nitrogen derived from each (BSCF) and no fertilizer application control (CK) to a fluvo‐aquic soil of the North China Plain. All fertilizer application treatments had equal nutrient supply and were continuously applied over 4 years. Annual yields of wheat and maize were determined. Water‐stable aggregates in size classes >5 mm, 2–5 mm, 0.25–2 mm, 0.053–0.25 mm and <0.053 mm in the topsoil of 20 cm were separated by wet sieving; mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), percentage of aggregates destruction (PAD) and fractal dimension (D) were derived. The concentrations of organic carbon associated with the aggregates were measured, and the distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) was quantified. Fertilizer application treatments enhanced total crop yield by 49.1%–75.0%. Fertilizer application also increased the mass proportions of water‐stable macro‐aggregates by 81.6%–164.4%, MWD by 100.0%–264.3%, GMD by 54.5%–227.3%, while decreasing PAD by 15.4%–47.8% and D by 1.0%–3.8% (all relative to CK). The highest proportions of macro‐aggregates, the greatest aggregate stability and the greatest crop yield all resulted from BSCF. All fertilizer application treatments substantially increased the SOC content of water‐stable aggregates, with greater relative contribution in macro‐aggregates. Increased SOC in macro‐aggregates was mainly attributable to mass proportion changes rather than changes in their SOC concentrations. However, SOC concentration tended to account for a larger proportion of the total changes in micro‐aggregates. BSCF also produced the highest total soil organic carbon stocks in aggregates (40.3% and 57.3% greater than CF and CK, respectively). Our work demonstrates that half substitution of chemical fertilizer with biogas slurry is a practical management to enhance soil aggregation and its stability that is associated with a higher crop yield than either treatment individually. It also promotes organic carbon accumulation in soil aggregates, which will support sustainable agricultural development in fluvo‐aquic soil.
Full genomic sequence of the HLA‐DPA1*01:115 allele identified by next generation sequencing
Authors: Liacini Abdelhamid , Peters Lindsey , Mancini Shannon , Gravante Christopher , Geier Steven
Published: September 2023

Full‐length sequence of HLA‐DPA1*01:115 covers the 5′‐untranslated region (UTR), all introns and exons and the 3′‐UTR.
Higher degree of impostor characteristics relates to lower self‐perceived teaching ability and emotional intelligence
Authors: Husk Katherine E. , Lewis James M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Emotional intelligence (EI) has been previously associated with teaching ability and impostor phenomenon (IP) in medical education; however, studies have demonstrated mixed findings and have largely focused on trainees only. Therefore, we sought to explore the potential association between the degree of IP characteristics, EI and teaching ability in obstetrics and gynaecology (Ob/Gyn) faculty physicians.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, survey‐based pilot study was completed at a single academic institution. Ob/Gyn attending (faculty) physicians were queried using surveys related to IP, EI and teaching ability. Resident (trainee) physicians also completed anonymous evaluations of faculty teaching ability.

Findings

The degree of IP characteristics correlated negatively with self‐perceived teaching ability, with no significant differences in resident assessment of faculty teaching. IP also correlated negatively with EI. Although there were no statistically significant differences in resident assessment of teaching ability based on EI, both EI and IP demonstrated inverse relationships to faculty assessment of teaching ability compared with resident assessment.

Conclusion

IP appears to relate to lower perceived teaching ability in Ob/Gyn faculty that does not correspond to resident evaluation of teaching performance. The demonstrated negative correlation between the degree of impostor characteristics and EI suggests that EI could potentially play a protective role in the development of IP and burnout, as well as influence teaching. This relationship may have implications for faculty willingness to continue in academic medicine.
A comparative full‐length transcriptomic resource provides insight into the perennial monocarpic mass flowering
Authors: Zhao Jiu‐Xia , Wang Shu , Liu Jiazhi , Jiang Xiao‐Dong , Wen Jing , Suo Zhi‐Quan , Liu Jie , Zhong Mi‐Cai , Wang Qin , Gu Zhirong , Liu Changning , Deng Yunfei , Hu Jin‐Yong , Li De‐Zhu
Published: September 2023

Perennial monocarpic mass flowering represents as a key developmental innovation in flowering time diversity in several biological and economical essential families, such as the woody bamboos and the shrubby Strobilanthes. However, molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying this important biodiversity remain poorly investigated. Here, we generated a full‐length transcriptome resource incorporated into the BlueOmics database (http://blueomics.iflora.cn) for two Strobilanthes species, which feature contrasting flowering time behaviors. Using about 112 and 104 Gb Iso‐seq reads together with ~185 and ~75 Gb strand‐specific RNA seq data, we annotated 80 971 and 79 985 non‐redundant full‐length transcripts for the perennial polycarpic Strobilanthes tetrasperma and the perennial monocarpic Strobilanthes biocullata, respectively. In S. tetrasperma, we identified 8794 transcripts showing spatiotemporal expression in nine tissues. In leaves and shoot apical meristems at two developmental stages, 977 and 1121 transcripts were differentially accumulated in S. tetrasperma and S. biocullata, respectively. Interestingly, among the 33 transcription factors showing differential expression in S. tetrasperma but without differential expression in S. biocullata, three were involved potentially in the photoperiod and circadian‐clock pathway of flowering time regulation (FAR1 RELATED SEQUENCE 12, FRS12; NUCLEAR FACTOR Y A1, NFYA1; PSEUDO‐RESPONSE REGULATOR 5, PRR5), hence provides an important clue in deciphering the flowering diversity mechanisms. Our data serve as a key resource for further dissection of molecular and genetic mechanisms underpinning key biological innovations, here, the perennial monocarpic mass flowering.
GUIDELINES FOR COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF FRIENDSHIP
Authors: Clocksin William F.
Published: September 2023

Humans participate in an immense variety of relationships with other persons and other entities: human and nonhuman, living and nonliving, tangible and intangible, real and imagined.  Participation in relationships is considered a key benchmark of personhood. Some of these relationships, particularly friendships, involve close emotional attachments, and some friendships have been described since antiquity as spiritual in nature.  Different types of friendship depend upon factors such as proximity, social formality, physical intimacy, information exchanged, and the costs and benefits of maintaining the relationship. There are time‐extended processes and narrative practices involved in forming and dissolving relationships. A question is raised how androids (hypothetical humanoid robots that people would accept as equals in society) can participate in friendships with humans and other entities. This article explores the space of friendships with the aim of formulating guidelines for a computational model that can make explicit the information processing requirements and step‐by‐step processes involved with participating in the many different types of friendships, including those known as spiritual friendships.
RESHAPING THE HEART‐MIND: A RESPONSE TO ROWAN WILLIAMS
Authors: Teasdale John D.
Published: September 2023

This article suggests that themes in Williams’ (2023) analysis of attention and contemplation resonate powerfully with current thinking in cognitive science. By changing how we pay attention, we can change the shape, or underlying configuration, of the heart‐mind. This is the core process in mindfulness and contemplation. The Interacting Cognitive Subsystems (ICS) analysis suggests this involves a shift in the balance between conceptual knowing and holistic‐intuitive knowing.
Analysing Spatial Pattern of the Three Major Fast-Food Chain Restaurants in Johor Bahru Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Tarmidi Zakri , Yap Wei Kang , Kon Hua Xian , Azmy Suzanna , Hassan Noordyana
Published: September 2023

Spatial analysis has proven to be an impactful tool in business for gaining insights and making informed decisions, especially in analysing spatial patterns and finding new locations for starting or expanding the business. However, most fast-food chain restaurants have t yet to optimise the use of GIS, especially in analysing the spatial distribution patterns of their outlets. This study aims to analyse the spatial distribution patterns of three major fast-food chains in Johor Bahru, Malaysia: KFC, McDonald’s, and Burger King. Four spatial analyses were performed: network analysis, buffer analysis, heatmap analysis, and spatial distribution pattern analysis using the nearest neighbour technique. The results showed different spatial distribution patterns for these three major fast-food chains. KFC is more spatially randomly distributed, concentrated in downtown Johor Bahru, while McDonald’s is spatially scattered throughout the Johor Bahru district and the Skudai area. Burger King has too few outlets and is spatially scattered in the Johor Bahru district. From these results, fast-food franchises can use the information to locate new locations based on their indicators for new outlets.
Bebida milenaria tradicional de la parroquia Sancán y su transcendencia para ser considerada como patrimonio cultural intangible
Authors: Macías Vera María Yesenia , Mora Pisco Carmen Inés , Reyes Chávez Luís Reinaldo , Rodríguez Pincay Irene Rosario
Published: September 2023

Introduction the inhabitants of the various indigenous communities in Ecuador have left a deep mark on many of the aspects studied in the country, such is the case of culture, language, ancestral traditions, religion as well as gastronomy. This is why corn chicha is a product cataloged as a traditional drink of the Sancan parish that, due to its characteristics of the region, has been considered a pillar in the gastronomy of Ecuador, in such a way that its importance can be the engine for it to be consider it intangible cultural heritage. Objective Describe the distinctive elements of the millenary drink, corn chicha, as well as its manufacture so that it becomes part of the intangible cultural heritage of the Sancán parish of the Jipijapa canton. Methodology The research was developed within the quantitative paradigm with a descriptive character, a dichotomous instrument of six (6) questions to a sample of eight (8) participants of the project for the study of the ancient drink corn chicha, who have extensively investigated the referred topic and the region. Results The team members responded assertively to the factors related to the development of the corn chicha drink, demonstrating that they know the artisanal manufacture, the ingredients that the product has for its elaboration, as well as the criteria for the elaboration and commercialization to be attached to the established legal norms.
Diferenciación social de la política antidrogas “Ruta Futuro” en Colombia: un análisis desde la imbricación de género, sexualidad, clase social y raza
Authors: Rodríguez Díaz Andrés , Guerrero Valencia Valeria
Published: September 2023

El presente articulo busca hacer un análisis crítico del discurso de la política antidrogas “Ruta Futuro”, propuesta y ejecutada por el gobierno de Iván Duque entre el periodo de 2018-2022. La diferenciación política y cultural frente a las subjetividades que la política aborda es el elemento nuclear del análisis.  En el ejercicio de análisis, esta política se problematiza desde un enfoque de imbricación entre raza, clase, genero, sexualidad, que permite ahondar en las relaciones de poder establecidas en los discursos y en las prácticas que se derivan de esta directriz de gobierno. A través de dos de los cinco “pilares” de la política: Reducir el consumo de drogas y su impacto y Reducir la disponibilidad de la Droga, se evidencian tanto los direccionamientos y las tensiones de las acciones en materia de consumo y producción de sustancias ilícitas, como la diferenciación de sujetos de intervención de la política.
On-Field Methodological Approach to Monitor the Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Phases in Elite Female Athletes
Authors: Dupuit Marine , Meignié Alice , Chassard Tom , Blanquet Ludivine , LeHeran Julien , Delaunay Thomas , Bernardeau Elise , Toussaint Jean-François , Duclos Martine , Antero Juliana
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Currently, there are no guidelines for implementing the monitoring of menstrual status, including the natural menstrual cycle (NC) or oral contraception (OC), in a sport setting. We aimed to provide a feasible, on-field methodological approach for monitoring NC and OC in female athletes. Methods: We developed a smartphone app with daily questionnaires to monitor both NC and OC phases in 19 elite female soccer players (23.7 [4.4] y) over 7 months. Adherence and compliance were evaluated. The NC and OC phases were based on calendar data to establish an individual menstrual profile for each athlete. Results: The initial questionnaire revealed that the vast majority of female players (80%) were interested in monitoring their menstrual status. The online monitoring yielded high athlete adherence (87.0% [14.2%]) with a slight decrease over the winter break and at the end of the championship, which necessitated adaptations to promote compliance. Monitoring identified the specific menstrual pattern of each athlete and highlighted large interindividual variability. Conclusion: This study assesses, for the first time, the interest of female players in monitoring their menstrual status. It provides a new methodological approach, as well as guidelines for optimizing on-field monitoring. It also anticipates some obstacles sport staff may encounter when trying to implement such follow-up. It is essential to better understand the menstrual profile of athletes and determine its potential impacts on well-being and performance.
Interference Effects of Different Resistance-Training Protocols on Rowing Ergometer Performance: A Study on Semiprofessional Rowers
Authors: Janicijevic Danica , Quidel-Catrilelbún Mauricio Elías Leandro , Baena-Raya Andrés , García-Ramos Amador
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the interference effects of various resistance-training (RT) protocols on rowing ergometer performance. Methods: Fourteen semiprofessional male rowers randomly completed 5 protocols in separate sessions: (1) control—no RT session was performed, (2) upper-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the bench pull exercise, (3) upper-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the bench pull exercise, (4) lower-body high-fatigue—4 sets to failure during the leg-press exercise, and (5) lower-body low-fatigue—4 sets of 6 repetitions during the leg-press exercise. All sets were performed against the 12-repetition-maximum load with 2 minutes of interset rest. Following the completion of the protocols, subjects performed an all-out 1000-m rowing ergometer test. Results: Compared with the control condition, rowing ergometer performance was not significantly affected after the low-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≥ .487; Δ = 0.0%–0.2%; lower body: P ≥ .200; Δ = −0.2%–0.5%), while it significantly declined following high-fatigue RT protocols (upper body: P ≤ .001; Δ = 1.0%–2.0%; lower body: P ≤ .002; Δ = 2.1%–2.5%). The average heart rate was significantly lower for the control condition compared with all RT protocols (P ≤ .043; Δ = 1.0%–1.5%). Conclusions: To minimize interference on rowing performance, coaches should prioritize the level of effort in RT protocols over specific exercises, specifically avoiding high-fatigue protocols that lead to failure before rowing practice.
“There’s Not a Lot of Glory in What I Do”: Coaches’ Views on Canadian Ice Hockey and Figure Skating Development Programs for Adults
Authors: Szto Courtney , Adams Mary Louise
Published: September 2023

Hockey and figure skating are iconic Canadian sports, although it would be hard to know this from the dearth of opportunities available for adults to take up these sports or improve their skills. To learn about the factors that shape adult programming in these two sports, semistructured interviews were conducted with 16 experienced Canadian hockey and figure skating coaches who work with adults. The interviews provided insight into some of the structural barriers that adult learners and their coaches face in hockey and figure skating. Participants suggest that while adult learners are an untapped market, a sport system that privileges high-performance and youth development means that few coaches can make working with adults a priority. Coaches receive little training to work with adults, and because adults are at the bottom of the hierarchy in terms of ice allocation, it is often difficult to design programs that meet their needs. The authors call for more explicit attention to adult programming in hockey and figure skating to meet demand and improve experiences for adults.
Effectiveness of difluprednate in addition to systemic therapy for the treatment of anterior scleritis
Authors: Liberman Paulina , Thorne Jennifer , Burkholder Bryn , Berkenstock Meghan K
Published: September 2023

Aim

To describe the effectiveness and side-effect profile of adding difluprednate therapy to patients with anterior scleritis being treated systemically.

Methods

Retrospective chart review. Charts from all patients with anterior scleritis who were treated with topical difluprednate in addition to systemic therapy from 1 January 2018 to 1 January 2020 were reviewed. Data collected included: demographics, scleritis type, systemic diagnosis, presence of nodules or necrosis, changes in scleritis activity, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of difluprednate drops used, type of systemic treatment used, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and lens status. The primary outcome was clinical resolution of scleritis. Secondary outcomes included BCVA loss ≥2 lines, change in lens status or cataract surgery and IOP ≥24 mm Hg.

Results

Thirty-two patients (44 eyes) were analysed. The median age was 57 years (IQR 52, 72); 59% were female; 72% were Caucasian. An associated systemic disease was present in 59%. Systemic therapies used when difluprednate was added were: 65% immunosuppressive agents, 43% prednisone and 25% non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The addition of difluprednate resulted in clinical resolution in 79.6% of the treated eyes. Median time to inactivity was 9 weeks (IQR 5, 20). Eyes initially using 2–4 drops per day had a higher response rate (89%, p=0.005). Over a median follow-up of 34 weeks (IQR 21, 74), 11 eyes had IOP elevation; 6 eyes lost ≥2 lines of BCVA, 5 eyes had cataract progression.

Conclusion

Most eyes treated with difluprednate achieved inactivity. The addition of difluprednate to systemic therapies provides an alternative to achieve control of inflammation.
Reimagining global mental health in Africa
Authors: Wondimagegn Dawit , Pain Clare , Seifu Nardos , Cartmill Carrie , Alemu Azeb Asaminew , Whitehead Cynthia Ruth
Published: September 2023

In 2001, the WHO launched The World Health Report most specifically addressing low-income and middle-income countries (LAMICs). It highlighted the importance of mental health (MH), identifying the severe public health impacts of mental ill health and made 10 recommendations. In 2022, the WHO launched another world MH report and reaffirmed the 10 recommendations, while concluding that ‘business as usual for MH will simply not do’ without higher infusions of money. This paper suggests the reason for so little change over the last 20 years is due to the importation and imposition of Western MH models and frameworks of training, service development and research on the assumption they are relevant and acceptable to Africans in LAMICs. This ignores the fact that most mental and physical primary care occurs within local non-Western traditions of healthcare that are dismissed and assumed irrelevant by Western frameworks. These trusted local institutions of healthcare that operate in homes and spiritual spaces are in tune with the lives and culture of local people. We propose that Western foundations of MH knowledge are not universal nor are their assumptions of society globally applicable. Real change in the MH of LAMICs requires reimagining. Local idioms of distress and healing, and explanatory models of suffering within particular populations, are needed to guide the development of training curricula, research and services. An integration of Western frameworks into these more successful approaches are more likely to contribute to the betterment of MH for peoples in LAMICs.
Improving personalised care and support planning for people living with treatable-but-not-curable cancer
Authors: Le Boutillier Clair , Jeyasingh-Jacob Julian , Jones Lizzie , King Alex , Archer Stephanie , Urch Catherine
Published: September 2023

People living with treatable-but-not-curable (TbnC) cancer encounter cancer-related needs. While the NHS long-term plan commits to offering a Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) and care plan to all people diagnosed with cancer, the content, delivery and timing of this intervention differs across practice. Understanding how people make sense of their cancer experience can support personalised care. A conceptual framework based on personal narratives of living with and beyond cancer (across different cancer types and all stages of the disease trajectory), identified three interlinked themes: Adversity, Restoration and Compatibility, resulting in the ARC framework.

Our aim was to use the ARC framework to underpin the HNA to improve the experience of personalised care and support planning for people living with TbnC cancer. We used clinical work experience to operationalise the ARC framework and develop the intervention, called the ARC HNA, and service-level structure, called the ARC clinic. We sought expert input on the proposed content and structure from patients and clinicians through involvement and engagement activities. Delivered alongside standard care, the ARC HNA was piloted with patients on the TbnC cancer (myeloma and metastatic breast, prostate or lung) pathway, who were 6–24 months into their treatment. Iterations were made to the content, delivery and timing of the intervention based on user feedback.

Fifty-one patients received the intervention. An average of 12 new concerns were identified per patient, and 96% of patients achieved at least one of their goals. Patients valued the space for reflection and follow-up, and clinicians valued the collaborative approach to meeting patients’ supportive care needs. Compared with routine initial HNA and care plan completion rates of 13%, ARC clinic achieved 90% with all care plans shared with general practitioners. The ARC clinic adopts a novel and proactive approach to delivering HNAs and care plans in a meaningful and personalised way.