bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of atorvastatin on muscle tissues of dermatomyositis and antisynthetase syndrome patients with dyslipidemia
Authors: Borges Isabela Bruna Pires , Oba‐Shinjo Sueli Mieko , Lerario Antonio Marcondes , Marie Suely Kazue Nagahashi , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki
Published: November 2023

Introduction

In a recent study, we have shown that atorvastatin is clinically safe for dermatomyositis (DM) and antisynthetase syndrome (ASS) patients with dyslipidemia. Herein, we showed in an unprecedented way, the safety of atorvastatin on the muscular tissues of these patients.

Methods

Transcriptome analysis was performed on samples of the vastus lateralis muscle obtained at baseline and after 12 weeks of atorvastatin (20 mg/day) intervention in DM or ASS patients with dyslipidemia [6DM and 5ASS received atorvastatin, and 2DM and 3ASS received placebo]. The results were analyzed considering differences in expression fold change before and after treatment. Histological and histochemical analyses were also performed.

Results

In both groups, no significant changes were observed in genes related to the mitochondrial, oxidative, insulin, lipid, and fibrogenic pathways. Histological analysis showed a slight variability in the fiber size that was preserved after the intervention. In addition, the mosaic of muscle fibers was preserved in the internal architecture of the fibers and all histological regions. No fiber necrosis or atrophy, focal failures, subsarcolemmal accumulation, lipids, areas of fibrosis, or alterations in mitochondrial activity were observed. All muscle fibers were labeled for MHC I.

Conclusion

Atorvastatin did not promote significant changes in the expression of genes related to mitochondrial, oxidative, insulin, lipid, and fibrogenic pathways in the muscle tissues of DM and ASS patients with dyslipidemia. Atorvastatin did not also promote histological and histochemical changes in muscle tissues. Our results reinforce the safety of the administration of atorvastatin to treat dyslipidemia in patients with DM and ASS.
A network prediction model to quantify relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (BEF)
Authors: Hou Jian , Fanin Nicolas , Ni Zizhao
Published: November 2023

Biodiversity loss has a large impact on many ecosystem functions (EFs). It is urgent to quantify the effect of biodiversity loss on EFs, and much efforts are needed to determine quantitatively the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functions (BEF).

In this review, we first summarised the mechanistic models commonly applied in current BEF studies, and proposed a new BEF model based on species interaction networks. The ‘network attenuation model’, which is built up by an unsaturated network, quantifies BEF. Then, the implication of network attenuation model for the scale dependence of BEF has been studied. Finally, the network attenuation model has been tested using data from the BIODEPTH project.

We found that fitting models with the network attenuation model provided better results than other common fitting methods. The model fitting results revealed the scale dependence in BEF relationships, and demonstrated nonlinear changes in the BEF‐slope with the spatial scale.

We conclude that the network attenuation model can be used as an alternative approach to estimate BEF, and the information from this model can provide meaningful guidance for the allocation of resources for conservation efforts worldwide. More efforts will be necessary assess the effect of biodiversity on various EFs as the importance of interactions among species and species richness may also vary over time.
An AI‐based platform to investigate African large carnivore dispersal and demography across broad landscapes: A case study and future directions using African wild dogs
Authors: Cozzi Gabriele , Reilly Maureen , Abegg Daniela , Behr Dominik M. , Brack Peter , Claase Megan J. , Holmberg Jason , Hofmann David D. , Kalil Paul , Ndlovu Sichelesile , Neelo John , McNutt John Weldon
Published: November 2023

Understanding dispersal patterns and demographic processes is crucial for the development of evidence‐based conservation practices. Obtaining such information relies on the ability to identify and track individuals across spatial and temporal scales relevant to the life‐history events under investigation. This knowledge can be achieved by combining photographic and sighting data collected by various sources with a high accuracy automated individual identification platform. Here, we present the African Carnivore Wildbook (ACW), an AI‐based graphical user interface tool capable of identifying individuals of several African carnivore species and specifically developed to accommodate the above outlined needs. We showcase the ACW functionality using the endangered African wild dog as an example. Pictures collected over an area >56,000 km2 and submitted to ACW allowed inferences on movement patterns and dispersal at regional and international scales; for instance, transboundary dispersal events >200 km were documented. ACW furthermore enabled monitoring some individuals for >4 years; such information is invaluable for reliable survival analyses. We discuss how the ACW can contribute to data collection at appropriate spatial and temporal scales to support population monitoring, scientific research and management of African wild dogs and other apex carnivores and to the conservation of these charismatic species.
The Orange County gardeners of COVID‐19: Making breath in landscapes of racial suffocation
Authors: Zárate Salvador
Published: November 2023

This article examines Latinx residential gardening in Orange County, California during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The pandemic laid bare how the suburban home is a realm of racial suffocation, where the US white propertied subject is secured through unfettered access to the life, not just labor, of racialized and gendered workers of the domestic economy. Despite disposability, residential gardeners' frontline botanical work foments a practice of making breath that, beyond expanding life in the Southern California suburban ecology of lawns, gardens, and property, also crafts more than human mutuality from the grounds of the suburban home. Thinking beyond the paradigm of gardeners' “mow, blow, and go” labor, I track how their more than human mutuality, despite appearing to be pruned back, tarries on other's property with plants, soil, and trees in ways that reemerges beyond liberal humanist categorizations of labor and the human. In doing so, I demonstrate that, despite racial suffocation, residential gardeners' practices of breathing befuddle the aims of racial capitalist COVID‐19 inequity.
Lessons learnt in the screening and diagnosis of haemoglobinopathies
Authors: Daniel Yvonne , Henthorn Joan
Published: November 2023

For this paper, cases reported formally and anecdotally to the authors in their screening and diagnostic roles have been selected to demonstrate areas where errors have occurred, and caution should be exercised. The cases demonstrate that it is vital that the performance and limitations of the techniques used, along with the phenotypic presentation of cases where haemoglobin variants and/or thalassaemias are coinherited are understood by those performing result interpretation. Those who deliver the service as well as those who receive reports and give results and counselling should be aware of the complexity of the topic.
Why do we never have enough time? Economic inequality fuels the perception of time poverty by aggravating status anxiety
Authors: Zhao Qi , Ma Rongzi , Liu Zhenzhen , Wang Tianxin , Sun Xiaomin , van Prooijen Jan‐Willem , Dong Mengxi , Yuan Yue
Published: November 2023

People in many societies report that they do not have enough time. What makes people feel so rushed? We propose that economic inequality leads to perceived time poverty by increasing status anxiety. Five studies examined this line of reasoning. Study 1 (N = 230) found a positive correlation between economic inequality and perceived time poverty. Study 2 (N = 194) manipulated economic inequality to test the causal link between economic inequality and perceived time poverty. The results showed that people perceived more time poverty in the high (vs. low) economic inequality condition. Study 3 (N = 381) supported the mediating role of status anxiety in the relationship between economic inequality and perceived time poverty using a questionnaire survey. Study 4 (pre‐registered; N = 283) manipulated economic inequality in an ecological valid way and yielded further support for the hypotheses. In pre‐registered Study 5 (N = 233), a blockage manipulation design was employed to test the mediating effect of status anxiety as a function of economic inequality, which provided causal evidence for the proposed mediator. Our findings suggest that economic inequality serves as a structural societal factor that fuels people's perception of time poverty.
Effects of different insulin sensitisers in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Melin Johanna M. , Forslund Maria , Alesi Simon J. , Piltonen Terhi , Romualdi Daniela , Spritzer Poli M. , Tay Chau Thien , Pena Alexia S. , Witchel Selma F. , Mousa Aya , Teede Helena J.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Characteristic features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) include insulin resistance and an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. To promote improved insulin sensitivity, insulin sensitisers have been used in PCOS. However, direct comparisons across these agents are limited. This study compared the effects of metformin, rosiglitazone and pioglitazone in the management of PCOS to inform the 2023 International Evidence‐based PCOS Guideline.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of the literature.

Patients

Women with PCOS and treatment with insulin sensitisers.

Measurements

Hormonal and clinical outcomes, as well as side effects.

Results

Of 1660 publications identified, 13 randomised controlled trials were included. Metformin was superior in lowering weight (mean difference [MD]: −4.39, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −7.69 to −1.08 kg), body mass index (MD: −0.95, 95% CI: −1.41 to −0.49 kg/m2) and testosterone (MD: −0.10, 95% CI: −0.18 to −0.03 nmol/L) versus rosiglitazone, whereas there was no difference when comparing metformin to pioglitazone. Adding rosiglitazone or pioglitazone to metformin did not improve metabolic outcomes. However, rosiglitazone seemed superior to metformin in lowering lipid concentrations.

Conclusions

Metformin should remain the first‐line insulin sensitising treatment in adults with PCOS for the prevention and management of weight and metabolic features. The addition of thiazolidinediones appears to offer little benefit.
Relation of changes in PEF and FEV1 in exercise challenge in children
Authors: Csonka Leon , Tikkakoski Antti , Tikkakoski Anna P. , Karjalainen Jussi , Lehtimäki Lauri
Published: November 2023

Decrease in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 10% or 15% in exercise challenge test is considered diagnostic for asthma, but a decrease of 15% in peak expiratory flow (PEF) is recommended as an alternative. Our aim was to assess the accuracy of different PEF cut‐off points in comparison to FEV1.

We retrospectively studied 326 free running exercise challenge tests with spirometry in children 6−16 years old. FEV1 and PEF were measured before and 2, 5, 10 and 15 min after exercise. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) and ϰ‐coefficient were used to analyse how decrease in PEF predicts decrease of 10% or 15% in FEV1.

In the ROC analysis, areas under the curve were 0.851 (p < 0.001) and 0.921 (p < 0.001) for PEF decrease to predict a 10% and 15% decrease in FEV1, respectively. The agreement between changes in PEF and FEV1 varied from slight to substantial (ϰ values of 0.199–0.680) depending on the cut‐points. Lower cut‐off for decrease in PEF had higher sensitivity and NPV, while higher cut‐off values had better specificity and PPV. Decrease of 20% and 25% in PEF seemed to be the best cut‐offs for detecting 10% and 15% decrease in FEV1, respectively. Still, a fifth of the positive findings based on PEF were false.

Change in PEF is not a precise predictor of change in FEV1 in exercise test. The currently recommended cut‐point of 15% decrease in PEF seems to be too low and leads to high false positive rate.
Effect of collateral circulation in patients with multiple craniocervical artery stenoses
Authors: Gao Ya , Liu Xuan , Xu Beibei , Zhang Ximeng , Wang Yiqing , Ni Jianqiang , Yang Yi
Published: November 2023

Based on previous findings, collateral circulation in the brain is vital in mitigating cerebral ischemia's effects and influencing stroke risk. This retrospective study examined collateral circulation, admission ischemic stroke status, and long‐term recurrence in patients with multiple craniocervical artery stenoses. Consecutive symptomatic internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University were recruited. Baseline data including medical histories and neurological function at admission were collected. Imaging techniques assessed collateral compensative capacity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between collateral circulation and case status. A total of 559 patients with symptomatic ICA stenosis were included, among whom 153 (27.4%) had concurrent moderate to severe vertebro‐basilar artery (VBA) stenosis. Dizziness, weakness/numbness, and slurring of speech were the primary symptoms in all patients. Over 36 months, 71 (12.7%) patients experienced a recurrence of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). In multivariate analysis, collateral circulation was found to be negatively associated with AIS (regional leptomeningeal collateral [rLMC] scores: OR: 0.798, 95% CI: 0.743–0.857, p < 0.001; Tan scores: OR: 0.478, 95% CI: 0.336–0.679, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the collateral circulation scores were significantly associated with the recurrence of AIS within 3 years (rLMC scores: OR: 0.926, 95% CI: 0.860–0.997, p = 0.042; Tan scores: OR: 0.467, 95% CI: 0.306–0.712, p < 0.001). Most associations remained significant in the subgroup of patients with VBA stenosis. Favorable collateral circulation in multiple craniocervical artery stenosis patients reduced long‐term ischemic event recurrence. Stratifying treatment risks is essential for optimizing outcomes.
The potential adverse effects of minors' exposure to alcohol‐related stimuli via licenced venues: A narrative review
Authors: Booth Leon , Miller Mia , Pettigrew Simone
Published: November 2023

Issues

Young people are particularly impressionable when it comes to forming expectations and attitudes around alcohol consumption. Any stimuli that normalise and foster positive expectations around alcohol use may increase the risk of underage alcohol consumption. Alcohol venues that market themselves as being appropriate ‘family friendly’ establishments for children risk exposing minors to environments that are saturated with alcohol‐related stimuli. However, research examining how exposure to licenced venues affects underage people is very limited. The aim of this narrative review was to identify and synthesise relevant evidence to better understand how attending these venues might affect minors.

Approach

A narrative review of research published between January 2016 and November 2022 was conducted to investigate the potential effects on underage people of exposure to licenced venues and stimuli encountered in/around these venues. Examined stimuli included alcohol advertising, people consuming alcohol and alcohol outlets.

Key Findings

The reviewed literature indicates that the risk of alcohol‐related harm among minors is likely to increase with greater exposure to alcohol venues due to the associated exposure to alcohol advertising, exposure to others consuming alcohol and higher outlet density. In combination, these factors are likely to normalise alcohol consumption for minors and create positive alcohol expectancies.

Implications and Conclusion

Venues serving alcohol should be discouraged from targeting families and parents should be warned about the risks associated with taking minors to venues where alcohol is sold and consumed.
Tirzepatide reduces the predicted risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and improves cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with obesity or overweight: SURMOUNT‐1 post hoc analysis
Authors: Hankosky Emily R. , Wang Hui , Neff Lisa M. , Kan Hong , Wang Fangyu , Ahmad Nadia N. , Griffin Ryan , Stefanski Adam , Garvey W. Timothy
Published: November 2023

Aim

To assess the effect of tirzepatide on long‐term risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) among people with obesity or overweight without diabetes from SURMOUNT‐1.

Materials and Methods

SURMOUNT‐1, a phase 3 trial, evaluated the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide in adults with body mass index ≥30 or ≥27 kg/m2 and at least one weight‐related complication, excluding diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned to tirzepatide (5/10/15 mg) or placebo. Changes from baseline in cardiometabolic variables were assessed. The predicted 10‐year ASCVD risk scores were calculated (American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association risk engine) at baseline, week 24, and week 72 in SURMOUNT‐1 participants without a history of ASCVD. Percent change in risk scores from baseline to weeks 24 and 72 was compared between tirzepatide and placebo using mixed model for repeated measures analysis. Analyses were also conducted in participants with intermediate to high risk at baseline.

Results

Tirzepatide‐treated groups demonstrated reductions in cardiometabolic variables over 72 weeks. In participants without a history of ASCVD (N = 2461), the baseline median risk score was low and did not differ across groups (1.5%–1.6%). Relative change in risk from baseline to week 72 was greater for tirzepatide (−23.5% to −16.4%) than placebo (12.7%; P < 0.001). Relative change among participants with intermediate‐to‐high baseline risk was significantly greater for tirzepatide (P < 0.05). Intermediate‐to‐high‐risk participants demonstrated similar relative change but greater absolute risk reduction compared to the overall population.

Conclusion

Tirzepatide treatment significantly reduced the 10‐year predicted risk of ASCVD versus placebo in patients with obesity or overweight without diabetes.
Globally coordinated acoustic aquatic animal tracking reveals unexpected, ecologically important movements across oceans, lakes and rivers
Authors: Lennox Robert J. , Whoriskey Frederick G. , Verhelst Pieterjan , Vandergoot Christopher S. , Soria Marc , Reubens Jan , Rechisky Erin L. , Power Michael , Murray Taryn , Mulder Ingeborg , Markham James L. , Lowerre‐Barbieri Susan K. , Lindley Steven T. , Knott Nathan A. , Kessel Steven T. , Iverson Sara , Huveneers Charlie , Heidemeyer Maike , Harcourt Robert , Griffin Lucas P. , Friess Claudia , Filous Alexander , Fetterplace Lachlan C. , Danylchuk Andy J. , Daly Ryan , Cowley Paul , Cooke Steven J. , Chávez Elpis J. , Blaison Antonin , Whoriskey Kim
Published: November 2023

Acoustic telemetry is a popular approach used to track many different aquatic animal taxa in marine and freshwater systems. However, information derived from focal studies is typically resource‐ and geography‐limited by the extent and placement of acoustic receivers. Even so, animals tagged and tracked in one region or study may be detected unexpectedly at distant locations by other researchers using compatible equipment, who ideally share that information. Synergies through national and global acoustic tracking networks are facilitating significant discoveries and unexpected observations that yield novel insight into the movement ecology and habitat use of wild animals. Here, we present a selection of case studies that highlight unexpected tracking observations or absence of observations where we expected to find animals in aquatic systems around the globe. These examples span freshwater and marine systems across spatiotemporal scales ranging from adjacent watersheds to distant ocean regions. These unexpected movements showcase the power of collaborative telemetry networks and serendipitous observations. Unique and unexpected observations such as those presented here can capture the imagination of both researchers and members of the public, and improve understanding of movement and connectivity within aquatic ecosystems.
The metaphysics science needs: Deleuze's naturalism
Authors: Webster George
Published: November 2023

This article is aimed at those interested in the philosophy of Gilles Deleuze and the sciences—and this includes philosophers of science working out of the analytic tradition. Deleuze's writings are riddled with references to science and mathematics. And yet, the relation between these references and his philosophical thought is not well understood. In this essay, I investigate the nature of this relation—and I do so by asking whether it is naturalistic. Importantly, I draw on insights from contemporary philosophy of science to contribute to a proper understanding of this issue. I show that and how commentators are hamstrung by their lack of engagement with the philosophy of science; I present an interpretation of Deleuze's philosophical project as attempting to articulate an immanent and primitive form of objective modality; I draw together parts of Deleuze's corpus that are relevant to his treatment of the sciences but are nonetheless rarely studied in conjunction (including his and Guattari's distinction between ‘major’ and ‘minor’ science and his under‐scrutinized statement of interest in ‘the metaphysics science needs’); and I propose a naturalistic interpretation of his engagements with science.
Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation in primary Meige syndrome: motor and non‐motor outcomes
Authors: Hao Qing‐Pei , Zheng Wen‐Tao , Zhang Zi‐Hao , Liu Ye‐Zu , Ding Hu , OuYang Jia , Liu Zhi , Wu Guang‐Yong , Liu Ru‐En
Published: November 2023

Background and purpose

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a promising treatment for movement disorders. This prospective study aims to evaluate the effects of bilateral subthalamic nucleus DBS (STN‐DBS) on motor and non‐motor symptoms in patients with primary Meige syndrome.

Methods

Thirty patients who underwent bilateral STN‐DBS between April 2017 and June 2020 were included. Standardized and validated scales were utilized to assess the severity of dystonia, health‐related quality of life, sleep, cognitive function and mental status at baseline and at 1 year and 3 years after neurostimulation.

Results

The Burke−Fahn−Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale movement scores showed a mean improvement of 63.0% and 66.8% at 1 year and 3 years, respectively, after neurostimulation. Similarly, the Burke−Fahn−Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale disability scores improved by 60.8% and 63.3% at the same time points. Postoperative quality of life demonstrated a significant and sustained improvement throughout the follow‐up period. However, cognitive function, mental status, sleep quality and other neuropsychological functions did not change after 3 years of neurostimulation. Eight adverse events occurred in six patients, but no deaths or permanent sequelae were reported.

Conclusions

Bilateral STN‐DBS is a safe and effective alternative treatment for primary Meige syndrome, leading to improvements in motor function and quality of life. Nevertheless, it did not yield significant amelioration in cognitive, mental, sleep status and other neuropsychological functions after 3 years of neurostimulation.
Asian American parenting in a racialized world: The role of ideological contexts and intergenerational gaps
Authors: Wang Yan Z. , He Helen
Published: November 2023

Objective

To understand the challenges that have impeded Asian American parents' critical responses toward racism, we looked at interpretive contexts, as well as the recent immigration contexts and their impacts on intergenerational relationships.

Background

Asian Americans are the fastest growing diverse group in the United States. The advent of COVID‐19 resulted in a dramatic increase of anti‐Asian hate crimes.

Methods

We reviewed research on Asian American parents' racialized experiences and the challenges they face when raising children to respond to racism. With a contextual perspective, we highlighted three ideological concepts that have shaped the interpretive context for Asian American parents' responses to racism, including the model minority myth, the just‐world view, and the cultural maintenance model. We also looked at how recent waves of immigration may have compounded intergenerational gaps in many Asian American families, with both developmental and acculturational differences between generations.

Results and Conclusion

Understanding these contexts provides insights into how to best support Asian American parents as they communicate with their children on complicated topics. These support can help faciliate these parents' ability to remain grounded in their ethnic‐racial group, while uniting with other diverse groups in dismantling racism.

Implications

Informational and sociocultural resources are needed to help Asian American parents develop racial literacy and seek changes. We encourage practitioners to develop cultural competency and deepen their understanding of immigrant families' developmental and acculturational needs.
Climatic effects on the synchrony and stability of temperate headwater invertebrates over four decades
Authors: Larsen Stefano , Joyce Fiona , Vaughan Ian P. , Durance Isabelle , Walter Jonathan A. , Ormerod Steve J.
Published: November 2023

Important clues about the ecological effects of climate change can arise from understanding the influence of other Earth‐system processes on ecosystem dynamics but few studies span the inter‐decadal timescales required. We, therefore, examined how variation in annual weather patterns associated with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) over four decades was linked to synchrony and stability in a metacommunity of stream invertebrates across multiple, contrasting headwaters in central Wales (UK). Prolonged warmer and wetter conditions during positive NAO winters appeared to synchronize variations in population and community composition among and within streams thereby reducing stability across levels of ecological organization. This climatically mediated synchronization occurred in all streams irrespective of acid–base status and land use, but was weaker where invertebrate communities were more functionally diverse. Wavelet linear models indicated that variation in the NAO explained up to 50% of overall synchrony in species abundances at a timescale of 4–6 years. The NAO appeared to affect ecological dynamics through local variations in temperature, precipitation and discharge, but increasing hydrochemical variability within sites during wetter winters might have contributed. Our findings illustrate how large‐scale climatic fluctuations generated over the North Atlantic can affect population persistence and dynamics in inland freshwater ecosystems in ways that transcend local catchment character. Protecting and restoring functional diversity in stream communities might increase their stability against warmer, wetter conditions that are analogues of ongoing climate change. Catchment management could also dampen impacts and provide options for climate change adaptation.
Water and oxygen corrosion resistance of SiCf/SiC–SiYBC composites prepared by reactive melt infiltration at 1300°C –1500°C
Authors: Zhang Binghui , Liu Yongsheng , Gao Yuqing , Chen Jian , Li Jingxin , Cao Yejie , Pan Yu
Published: November 2023

In this work, the static water and oxygen corrosion behavior of SiCf/SiC–SiYBC composites was systematically studied at 1 300°C to 1 500°C. With the increase in corrosion temperature from 1 300°C to 1 500°C, both the residual strength and strength retention rate of SiCf/SiC–SiYBC composites initially increased and then decreased. The highest strength retention rate achieved was 132%, which was 35% higher than that of SiCf/SiC composites. During water and oxygen corrosion of composites, self‐healing boron silicate glass and the Y2Si2O7 phase with excellent resistance to water and oxygen were generated in situ. The oxidation products are fluid at high temperatures and can fill internal pores and microcracks, thus improving the residual strength of the SiCf/SiC–SiYBC composite. The water corrosion resistance of SiCf/SiC–SiYBC materials has been confirmed to be superior to that of SiCf/SiC composites.
A theoretical analysis on two‐sided duopoly platforms and tax regimes
Authors: Poddar Sangita , Banerjee (Chatterjee) Tanmoyee , Banerjee Swapnendu
Published: November 2023

We study the effects of three forms of taxation—a tax levied on the platform's revenue, an ad valorem tax on consumers' access fees and tax imposed on per‐transaction fees of sellers, in vertically differentiated two‐sided duopoly platforms with cross‐side network effects. The level of informative advertising which increases the probability of finding sellers by buyers, declines with taxes for each platform. Analytical comparison between tax regimes has been made. Additionally, for an increased degree of cross‐group externality, platforms raise the level of informative advertising irrespective of tax structures.
A flow‐based model for the multivehicle covering tour problem with route balancing
Authors: Ota Cristina Teruko , Fiorotto Diego Jacinto , Ghidini Carla Taviane Lucke da Silva , Oliveira Washington Alves de
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a new flow‐based mathematical formulation for the multivehicle covering tour problem. This problem determines a set of vehicle routes for the available fleet; therefore, the total distance traveled is minimal. In the proposed mathematical formulation, each vertex represents a location of interest, and these vertices belong to three sets: vertices that can be visited; vertices that must be visited; and vertices that must be covered, in the sense that each vertex must be close to a visited vertex in a route. The proposed formulation aims to find solutions with balanced routes (all the routes with an equal or similar number of visited nodes) and extends the previous formulations proposed in the literature by considering a two‐index vehicle flow formulation with a decision variable to find the balanced routes. It constitutes an NP‐hard integer programming problem based on a two‐commodity flow model, which is solved by applying the branch‐and‐cut and biased random‐key genetic algorithms. This paper reports computational results for some adapted instances from TSPLIB to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed model. The computational results validate the branch‐and‐cut and genetic algorithms, whereby the latter performs better in large‐size instances with reduced computational runtime. Finally, the used approaches obtained competitive solutions compared to the literature.
Revealing the mechanism of competing A‐site doping ions in (K, Na)NbO3‐based ceramics
Authors: Huang Yifeng , Ma Yinchang , Zhang Xi‐xiang , Lyu Jing , Lv Xiang , Wu Jiagang
Published: November 2023

Although past studies have shown a competitive relationship between bismuth ion (Bi3+) and rare earth ions in potassium sodium niobate {(K, Na)NbO3, KNN}‐based ceramics, a comprehensive investigation of this competition has been relatively scarce. Herein, we conducted an in‐depth exploration of this competition by substituting Bi3+ with praseodymium ions (Pr3+) in KNN‐based ceramics possessing high piezoelectric properties. The substitution of Bi3+ with Pr3+ results in a decrease in the extent of multi‐phase coexistence at room temperature, an increase in domain size and grain size, and the enhancement of ferroelectricity. However, it also leads to a deterioration in piezoelectricity. Through a combination of experimental findings and first‐principles calculations, we analyzed the alterations in phase structure, ferroelectric domains, and electrical properties, attributing these changes to the competitive nature of Bi‐O and Pr‐O bonds with their distinct ionic/covalent characteristics. Consequently, this study not only unveils the underlying physical mechanism behind the competition between Bi3+ and Pr3+ ions in KNN‐based piezoceramics but also presents a novel approach to tailor the phase transition temperature, thereby facilitating the overall performance improvement of KNN‐based ceramics.
Spatial and temporal control of glassy‐crystalline domains in optical phase change materials
Authors: Lee Chih‐Yu , Lian Chuanyu , Sun Hongyi , Huang Yi‐Siou , Acharjee Niloy , Takeuchi Ichiro , Ríos Ocampo Carlos A.
Published: November 2023

Chalcogenide phase change materials (PCMs) have become one of the most promising material platforms for the Optics and Photonics community. The unparalleled combination of nonvolatility and large optical property modulation promises devices with low‐energy consumption and ultra‐compact form factors. At the core of all these applications lies the difficult task of precisely controlling the glassy amorphous and crystalline domains that compose the PCM microstructure and dictate the optical response. A spatially controllable glassy‐crystalline domain distribution is desired for intermediate optical response (vs. binary response between fully amorphous and crystalline states), and temporally resolved domains are sought after for repeatable reconfiguration. In this perspective, we briefly review the fundamentals of PCM phase transition in various reconfiguring approaches for optical devices. We discuss each method's underpinning mechanisms, design, advantages, and downsides. Finally, we lay out current challenges and future directions in this field.
Electromechanical properties of [0 0 1]‐textured Mn–PMN–PZT ceramics under uniaxial pressure
Authors: Tang Mingyang , Liu Xin , Ren Xiaodan , Wang Yike , Wu Yue , Wang Sanhong , Xu Zhuo , Geng Liwei D. , Yan Yongke
Published: November 2023

Dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of both random and textured Mn–PMN–PZT ceramics were characterized under uniaxial stress. Textured ceramics exhibit a large piezoelectric response under uniaxial pressure; the bias field piezoelectric constant is higher than 700 pC/N when pressure is below 50 MPa. Moreover, textured ceramics also show better depolarization resistance under uniaxial stress fields; overall, 30% of the origin performance will remain when stress approaches 200 MPa, but for random ceramics, it is only 10%. The ferroelectricity of both random and textured ceramics is suppressed by uniaxial compression.Ec,Pr,Ei, and dissipation energy all decrease with increasing uniaxial stress. In addition, phase‐field simulation was used to better understand the polarization‐changing effects on piezoelectric and dielectric performance. The uniaxial stress causes polarization rotation and increases the angle between polarization and the electric field, which is an important factor leading to the increase of the dielectric constant.
Earnings management risk and audit pricing: Evidence from big bath accounting
Authors: Choi Heeick , Karim Khondkar , Zhang Yiye
Published: November 2023

We examine whether big baths (large and non‐recurring charges) affect auditors’ risk assessments and therefore result in higher audit fees. Prior studies have found that there is an asymmetric reaction from auditors on firms’ income‐increasing/decreasing accruals. We argue that auditors’ response to big baths is distinguishable from other types of earnings management as big baths provide incremental information to auditors beyond other earnings manipulation indicators. Our findings show that audit fees are significantly higher for firms with big baths, compared to other firms. We also present evidence that the positive relation between big baths and audit fees is stronger for firms with weaker corporate governance and greater information asymmetry. Overall, our results suggest that auditors expand their audit effort to mitigate the greater audit risk attributable to big baths, which in turn lead to higher audit fees.
Color stability of bleached tooth enamel brushed with different stain‐removing toothpastes
Authors: Sugai Rintaro , Kobayashi Mikihiro , Niizuma Yuiko , Mizukami Hiroyuki , Koyasu Masahiro , Shiba Toshikazu , Kitahara Nobuya , Manabe Atsufumi
Published: November 2023

Objective

The effects of four toothpastes on the color stability of in‐office bleached tooth specimens were determined.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated an experimental toothpaste (EXP) and three commercially available toothpastes: Colgate Optic White (OPW), Aquafresh White & Protect (AWP), and Crest 3D White (CDW). OPW, AWP, and CDW contained inorganic abrasives, whereas EXP and AWP contained sodium polyphosphate. Forty‐eight randomly selected human‐extracted maxillary central incisors were bleached and brushed twice daily over 30 days. We analyzed the final color difference (ΔE*ab, ΔE00, ΔWID), arithmetic average surface roughness (Ra) of the enamel measured on days 0 and 30, and scanning electron microscopy images of enamel surfaces and toothpastes. ΔE*ab, ΔE00, ΔWID, and Ra were analyzed using one‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

ΔE*ab and ΔE00 values were significantly lower after toothbrushing with EXP, OPW, and CDW than with AWP. OPW induced the greatest positive ΔWID. Ra was significantly increased by OPW and CDW, but slightly increased by AWP, with cube‐like particles, and EXP, with no particle‐like structures.

Conclusions

Only EXP stabilized the color of bleached teeth without increasing the enamel surface roughness. Sodium polyphosphate with approximately 10 phosphate groups was effective at removing stains.

Clinical Significance

The effect of toothpaste on the color stability of bleached teeth depends on the constituting abrasives and chemical components. Polyphosphoric acid has different stain‐removal effects depending on its degree of polymerization. Additionally, although certain types of abrasives may be effective for color stability, they also increase the surface roughness of the enamel.
The role of financial affiliates in tax avoidance by business groups: Evidence from Korea
Authors: Shim Haerin
Published: November 2023

This study examines whether financial affiliates within a nonfinancial business group perform certain roles and functions in tax avoidance by other nonfinancial affiliates or the group as a whole. Financial institutions have tax‐planning expertise and knowledge and thus may assist other affiliates of the same group in avoiding taxes. In addition, regulatory loopholes leave scope for tax avoidance involving financial affiliates. Using 10,659 firm‐year observations from 866 nonfinancial listed firms affiliated with business groups in Korea over the period 2001–2019, I find that firms belonging to nonfinancial groups with financial affiliates exhibit higher levels of tax avoidance than those belonging to nonfinancial groups without financial affiliates. The same result is observed at the group‐level tax avoidance as well as the firm‐level tax avoidance. In addition, I provide evidence that KFTC‐designated business groups subject to tighter regulation engage more in tax avoidance by utilizing financial affiliates in the blind spots of regulation and oversight, and that related‐party transactions (i.e., intragroup transactions) are used as avenues for financial affiliates to help other affiliates in tax avoidance. This study is one of the first empirical studies to shed light on the role of financial affiliates of nonfinancial groups in tax planning.
Histopathological characteristics analysis of giant melanocytic naevi in children
Authors: Chen Wei , Jiang Xuewei , Chen Nan , Zhang Qun , Cai Wei
Published: November 2023

Background

The major diagnostic criterion for the giant congenital melanocytic nevus (GCMN) is a size larger than 20 cm in diameter. However, the histopathological origin, pathogenesis, and GCMN progression are not yet completely clear. Unlike other medium or small superficial lesions, histomorphological evaluation is significant for GCMN pathological classification, malignant transformation assessment, and early detection of prognosis.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the pathological features of GCMN, including its satellite lesions.

Patients/Methods

Twenty‐three giant naevi and seventeen “satellite lesions” were collected from children aged 1 to 10 in Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital from 2018 to 2020. A histological study was conducted to evaluate their histological appearance. All the data observed and recorded data were statistically analyzed.

Results

In 23 cases of GCMN primary nevus, nevus cells were mainly distributed in the dermal region, with melanocyte proliferation and the presence of nevus nests at the dermal–epidermal junction. However, in satellite nevus, a junctional growth pattern was noted. Additionally, other histopathologic features, including epidermal contour, cell morphology, and architecture disorder also showed significant differences between primary nevus and satellite nevus.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the congenital pattern of the main nevus is more obvious than one of the satellite nevus, suggesting that the satellite nevus and the main nevus may occur slightly later than the main nevus. “Satellite nevus” happens as a result of a separate genetic event.
The efficiency and safety of low‐dosage isotretinoin therapy for Chinese acne vulgaris patients
Authors: Li Yiting , Zeng Yibin , Chen Zile , Nie Shu , Wu Zhouwei
Published: November 2023

Background

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions in dermatology clinics. Accumulating evidence has implicated oral low‐dosage isotretinoin was an effective treatment for acne with fewer side effects. Currently, the data on low‐dosage isotretinoin use in Chinese is limited.

Aims

To investigate the efficiency and safety of low‐dosage isotretinoin therapy for Chinese acne patients.

Methods

Three hundred and eighty‐eight patients treated with low‐dosage isotretinoin (0.2–0.4 mg/kg/d) and who completed the course (120 mg/kg) were enrolled. Medical information on the severity, duration, adverse effects, and outcome of acne was reviewed.

Results

The majority (90.2%, n = 350) of patients achieved complete remission, and on average, patients received 13.5 months of treatment. The time between isotretinoin start and the clear date between the mild and moderate groups was not significantly different (74 ± 24 vs. 84 ± 24 days). However, it took longer to resolve for the severe acne group (112 ± 25 days). Follow‐up 1 year after completion of the isotretinoin course, 37/350 (10.6%) patients relapsed, but there was no difference in the severity of acne. There were 133 (34.3%), 40 (10.3%), and 14 (2.6%) patients who developed hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and high LDL, respectively. Thirty‐two (8.2%) and 28 patients (7.2%) had elevated serum levels of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases. No values above grade 2 were detected.

Conclusions

This study reaffirms the efficacy and safety of low‐dosage oral isotretinoin in Chinese patients with acne vulgaris. Lab investigation could be performed after 2 months of therapy in healthy patients with normal baseline liver function and lipid panel tests.
Trait–environment relationships depend on species life history
Authors: Delalandre Léo , Violle Cyrille , Coq Sylvain , Garnier Eric
Published: November 2023

Question

Predicting the functional response of vegetation to environmental variations remains highly challenging. A first reason is that trait–environment relationships result from joint intraspecific and interspecific responses. A second reason is that most plant communities host sets of species that are expected to display different environmental responses according to their ecophysiological strategies.

Location

Mediterranean rangeland, Larzac Plateau, France (“La Fage” INRAE experimental station: 43°55′ N, 3°05′ E).

Methods

In a Mediterranean rangeland, we tested whether changes in trait values in response to management intensification (increased resource availability and grazing intensity) differ between annuals and perennials that coexist locally. To capture the multiple facets of plant phenotypes, we studied nine traits related to carbon acquisition and conservation, plant size, water‐use efficiency, phenology and reproduction.

Results

For most traits, we evidenced a significant interaction between environment and life history. In particular, changes in trait values were higher in perennials for leaf traits related to tissue density and growth. These differences were explained by: (a) a lower species turnover in annuals, and (b) the presence of species with more distinct trait values across environments in perennials. For most traits, these changes were not accompanied by differential intraspecific variations between annuals and perennials, which invalidates previous theoretical predictions. In addition, the contribution of intraspecific trait variation to among‐communities trait variance was higher for annuals than perennials for most traits.

Conclusion

Altogether, our findings highlight that changes in trait values with the environment can depend on functional groups (here, life history), which can further critically impact the assessment of the functional response of communities. They challenge the mean field approaches to communities in which trait aggregation is most often blindly applied, without considering potential different trajectories in response to environmental changes at various nested organizational levels.
Viola pendulipes (Violaceae), a new species from Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Huang Yan‐Shuang , Jia Xin‐Yu , Zeng Qiu‐Gen , Wen Wei‐Liang , Fan Qiang
Published: November 2023

Viola pendulipes (Violaceae), a new myrmecochous species from Baiwan Nature Reserve of Guangdong Province in China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically the new species is most similar to V. nanlingensis, but it is easily distinguished by having truncate or cuneate leaf base (versus cordate leaf base), robust rhizome with short internodes (versus slender rhizome with long internodes), curved and drooping peduncles in fruit (versus erect peduncles in fruit), and oblong anterior petals (versus spatulate to rhombic anterior petals). Our phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS sequences, confirms that the new species belongs to V. subsect. Diffusae, and is most closely related to V. yunnanensis.
Two adjacent NAC transcription factors regulate fruit maturity date and flavor in peach
Authors: Zhang Ruo‐Xi , Liu Yudi , Zhang Xian , Chen Xiaomei , Sun Juanli , Zhao Yun , Zhang Jinyun , Yao Jia‐Long , Liao Liao , Zhou Hui , Han Yuepeng
Published: November 2023

Although maturity date (MD) is an essential factor affecting fresh fruit marketing and has a pleiotropic effect on fruit taste qualities, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. In this study, we functionally characterized two adjacent NAM‐ATAF1/2‐CUC2 (NAC) transcription factors (TFs), PpNAC1 and PpNAC5, both of which were associated with fruit MD in peach.

PpNAC1 and PpNAC5 were found capable of activating transcription of genes associated with cell elongation, cell wall degradation and ethylene biosynthesis, suggesting their regulatory roles in fruit enlargement and ripening.

Furthermore, PpNAC1 and PpNAC5 had pleiotropic effects on fruit taste due to their ability to activate transcription of genes for sugar accumulation and organic acid degradation.

Interestingly, both PpNAC1 and PpNAC5 orthologues were found in fruit‐producing angiosperms and adjacently arranged in all 91 tested dicots but absent in fruitless gymnosperms, suggesting their important roles in fruit development. Our results provide insight into the regulatory roles of NAC TFs in MD and fruit taste.