bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transparency reports as CSR reports: motives, stakeholders, and strategies
Authors: Reid Amanda , Ringel Evan , Pendleton Shanetta M.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to situate information and communications technology (ICT) “transparency reports” within the theoretical framework of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting. The self-denominated transparency report serves a dual purpose of highlighting an ICT company’s socially responsible behavior while also holding government agencies accountable for surveillance and requests for user data. Drawing on legitimacy theory, neo-institutional theory and stakeholder theory, this exploratory study examines how ICT companies are implementing industry-specific voluntary disclosures as a form of CSR.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of ICT voluntary nonfinancial reporting (N = 88) was used to identify motivating principles, the company positioning to stakeholders, the relevant publics and intended audience of these disclosures and the communication strategy used to engage primary stakeholders.

Findings

Key findings suggest that most ICT companies used transparency reporting to engage consumers/users as their primary stakeholders and most used a stakeholder information strategy. A majority of ICT companies signaled value-driven motives in their transparency reports while also positioning the company to stakeholders as a protector of user data and advocate for consumer rights.

Originality/value

This study enriches the literature on CSR communication strategies and reporting practices by extending it to an underdeveloped topic of study: novel voluntary disclosures as CSR activities of prominent ICT companies (i.e. “Big Tech”). These polyphonic reports reflect varied motives, varied positioning and varied stakeholders. For market-leading companies, transparency reporting can serve to legitimize existing market power. And for midsize and emerging companies, transparency reporting can be used to signal adherence to industry norms – set by market-leading companies.
Diabetes and tuberculosis syndemic in India: A narrative review of facts, gaps in care and challenges
Authors: Vaishya Raju , Misra Anoop , Vaish Abhishek , Singh Sujeet Kumar
Published: June 2023

Both diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB) are prevalent all across in India. TB‐DM comorbidity has emerged as a syndemic and needs more attention in India considering gaps in screening, clinical care, and research. This paper is intended to review published literature on TB and DM in India to understand the burden of the dual epidemic and its trajectory and to obtain perspectives on the gaps, constraints, and challenges in care and treatment of this dual epidemic. A literature search was carried out on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using the key words ‘Tuberculosis’ OR ‘TB’ AND ‘Diabetes’ OR ‘Diabetes Mellitus’ AND ‘India’, focusing on the research published between the year 2000 to 2022. The prevalence of DM is high in patients with TB. Quantitative data on the epidemiological situation of TB/DM in India such as incidence, prevalence, mortality, and management are lacking. During the last 2 years convergence of TB‐DM syndemic with the COVID‐19 pandemic has increased cases with uncontrolled DM but also made coordinated control of TB‐DM operationally difficult and of low effectiveness. Research regarding TB‐DM comorbidity is required in the context of epidemiology and management. Detection and bidirectional screening are aggressively warranted. Management of DM in those with TB‐DM comorbidity needs more efforts, including training and supervision of frontline workers.

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Energy‐based hypnosis content creation, Indonesia
Authors: Long Nicholas J.
Published: June 2023

This piece is part of a special section inspired by Berlant and Stewart's book The Hundreds. Using only one hundred words, it offers an ethnographic portrait of my encounter with an Indonesian therapist specializing in “energy‐based hypnosis” and of the role of digital content creation in his life and professional practice.
Effectiveness of FeNO‐guided treatment in adult asthma patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Korevaar Daniël A. , Damen Johanna A. , Heus Pauline , Moen Maaike J. , Spijker René , van Veen Ilonka H. , Weersink Els J. , van Kemenade Geert‐Jan , van Hal Peter Th. W. , Hooft Lotty
Published: June 2023

Objective

Asthma control is generally monitored by assessing symptoms and lung function. However, optimal treatment is also dependent on the type and extent of airway inflammation. Fraction of exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) is a noninvasive biomarker of type 2 airway inflammation, but its effectiveness in guiding asthma treatment remains disputed. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to obtain summary estimates of the effectiveness of FeNO‐guided asthma treatment.

Design

We updated a Cochrane systematic review from 2016. Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess risk of bias. Inverse‐variance random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Subgroup analyses were performed based on asthma severity, asthma control, allergy/atopy, pregnancy and obesity.

Data Sources

The Cochrane Airways Group Trials Register was searched on 9 May 2023.

Eligibility Criteria

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effectiveness of a FeNO‐guided treatment versus usual (symptom‐guided) treatment in adult asthma patients.

Results

We included 12 RCTs (2,116 patients), all showing high or unclear risk of bias in at least one domain. Five RCTs reported support from a FeNO manufacturer. FeNO‐guided treatment probably reduces the number of patients having ≥1 exacerbation (OR = 0.61; 95%CI 0.44 to 0.83; six RCTs; GRADE moderate certainty) and exacerbation rate (RR = 0.67; 95%CI 0.54 to 0.82; six RCTs; moderate certainty), and may slightly improve Asthma Control Questionnaire score (MD = −0.10; 95%CI −0.18 to −0.02, six RCTs; low certainty), however, this change is unlikely to be clinically important. An effect on severe exacerbations, quality of life, FEV1, treatment dosage and FeNO values could not be demonstrated. There were no indications that effectiveness is different in subgroups of patients, although evidence for subgroup analysis was limited.

Conclusions

FeNO‐guided asthma treatment probably results in fewer exacerbations but may not have clinically important effects on other asthma outcomes.
Critical analysis of the reporting quality of case reports focusing on dental traumatology using the Preferred Reporting Items for Case reports in Endodontics 2020 checklist: A baseline evaluation prior to checklist publication
Authors: Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Sarao Simran Kaur , Berlin‐Broner Yuli , Gopinath Vellore Kannan , Shetty Naresh Yedthare , Duncan Henry F. , Abbott Paul V. , Dummer Paul M. H. , Levin Liran
Published: June 2023

Background/Aims

The Preferred Reporting Items for Case Reports in Endodontics (PRICE) 2020 guidelines were published to help authors produce high‐quality case reports. The aim of this study was to use the PRICE 2020 guidelines to appraise a sample of 50 case reports related to dental traumatology that were published before the guidelines were available in order to assess various parameters influencing the reporting quality.

Methods

Fifty case reports published between 2015 and 2019 and related to dental traumatology were randomly selected from the PubMed database. Reports were assessed by two independent evaluators using the PRICE checklist. Each item received a score of “1” if the manuscript met all pertinent criteria, “0” if it was not reported, and “0.5” if it was reported insufficiently. “Not Applicable” (NA) was assigned to items that were irrelevant to a specific report. The estimated total PRICE score for each case report was computed by adding all the scores, with a maximum score of 47 minus any “NA” scores. Descriptive and Inferential statistics (Student's t‐test and ANOVA) were used for analysis.

Results

The percentage of case reports that fully met each applicable criteria ranged from 0% to 100%. The percentage of case reports partially satisfying each applicable criterion varied from 0% to 88%. There was a significant difference in scores for case reports published in journals with an impact factor compared with those without (p = .042). No significant difference was observed between the mean scores that compared the period of publication. There was no significant difference between journals that followed the CARE guidelines and those that did not.

Conclusion

Several items within the PRICE 2020 guidelines were either not reported or only partially reported in case reports related to dental traumatology prior to the checklist publication. It is recommended that authors follow the PRICE 2020 guidelines to improve the overall quality of their case reports.
Prevalence and outcomes of pulmonary embolism with sickle cell disease: Analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, 2016–2020
Authors: Ilerhunmwuwa Nosakhare Paul , Adeniran Olayemi , Inyang Lawrence , Wasifuddin Mustafa , Hakobyan Narek , Perry Jamal Christopher , Abdul Khader Abul Hasan Shadali , Tahir Muhammad , Wang Jen Chin
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The outcomes of pulmonary embolism (PE) in sickle cell disease (SCD) are poorly established in the literature. This study examined the prevalence and outcomes of patients with PE and SCD.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify patients' data with a diagnosis of PE and SCD in the United States from 2016 to 2020 using the International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision codes. Logistic regression was used to compare outcomes between those with and without SCD.

Results

Of the 405 020 patients with PE, 1504 (0.4%) had SCD, and 403 516 (99.6%) did not have SCD. The prevalence of PE with SCD was stable. Patients in the SCD group were more likely to be female (59.5% vs. 50.6%; p < .0001), Black (91.7% vs. 54.4%; p < .0001), with a lower rate of comorbidities. The SCD group had higher in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.08–1.84; p = .012) but lower catheter‐directed thrombolysis (OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08–0.64; p = .005), mechanical thrombectomy (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.41–0.64; p < .0029), and inferior vena cava filter placement (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.33–0.66; p < .001).

Conclusion

In‐hospital mortality remains high in PE with SCD. A proactive approach, including maintaining a high index of suspicion for PE, is needed to reduce in‐hospital mortality.
Fatigue life prediction of aluminum alloy T‐welded joints root failure based on equivalent crack method
Authors: Wang Chao , Yang Bing , Zhu Tao , Tian Xiaochen , Xiao Shoune , Yang Guangwu
Published: June 2023

This study proposes an equivalent crack life prediction method for root cracks in T‐welded joints. An equivalent initial defect is used to describe the severity of the weld defect. Fatigue life prediction is achieved based on equivalent fracture parameters and high‐stress fatigue life reference points fitted to obtain a P‐S‐N curve for the entire stress range. Taking the 6082‐aluminum alloy T‐welded joints as the object, the test data under tensile load P‐S‐N curve fitting and crack growth simulation were carried out to compare and verify the applicability under constant and equivalent spectral load. This method enables deterministic fatigue life prediction with less testing and cost. Meanwhile, the approach incorporates the uncertainty of the physical model of the weld into the P‐S‐N curve, simplifying the process of calculating the probabilistic fatigue life.
Experimental and numerical investigation of mixed mode fracture of high‐performance grouting materials based on peridynamics
Authors: Yao Jiaxu , Chen Tao , Chen Ke , Yuan Guokai , Xiao Zhigang
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the fracture behavior of high‐performance grouting materials in the grouted connection section of marine structures, where they are subjected to complex stress states. This study utilizes a combination of experimental and numerical simulation methods to establish a reliable numerical simulation technique for the fracture process of high‐performance grouting materials. The mixed mode fracture behavior is analyzed using six different types of specimens, and the strain contour is analyzed using the Digital Image Correlation technique. An extended peridynamics model is proposed for the numerical simulation, which adopts a fracture criterion based on strain energy density. The accuracy of the model is verified qualitatively and quantitatively, and the simulation results are consistent with the experiments. Overall, this study provides insights into the fracture behavior of high‐performance grouting materials in complex stress states and presents a reliable numerical simulation technique for the fracture process.
Are the answers all out there? Investigating citizen information requests in the haze of bureaucratic responsiveness
Authors: Trautendorfer Julia , Schmidthuber Lisa , Hilgers Dennis
Published: June 2023

Under freedom of information (FOI) regulations, public officials are pressured to grant citizens access to public information by responding to citizen information requests. However, despite FOI regulations, information requests are treated with varying bureaucratic attention, resulting in a high number of ignored or overdue requests by public organizations. Focusing on this bureaucratic discrimination, this study aims to explain the determinants of varying bureaucratic responsiveness to citizen information requests. Responsiveness in this case is therefore either a successful response to the request, a refusal to respond to the request, or no response at all (i.e., the request is ignored). By drawing on public accountability, and thus a citizen‐driven model of bureaucratic responsiveness, we shed light on the human aspect behind responsiveness to information requests. This research argues that the request's topic as an accountability‐seeking indicator and the communication tone as an indicator for underlying emotions influence responsiveness. The results from applying text mining and text analysis techniques, such as topic modeling and sentiment analysis, on over 100,000 citizen information requests filed via a German online FOI platform support these assumptions.
Cyclostratigraphy at a tipping point
Authors: Bailey Robin
Published: June 2023

There are key patterns of variation in the (litho‐) stratigraphical record, which, with advances in computing technology in recent decades, have become amenable to objective numerical analysis. This research has chiefly focused on the search for spatially regular cycles in the sedimentary rock record, since there are theoretical grounds for believing that these would be periodic and thus provide a means of time‐calibrating the stratigraphical records in which they occurred. Less popular lines of research consider the scaling relationships of the tangible, measurable sedimentary rock layers, and of the hiatuses, individually of indeterminate length, that punctuate these layers. Objective source data for all these analyses is provided, on limited (usually decametre) scales, by detailed lithological logging, sampling and dating of sections provided by exposures and cores. An objective global lithostratigraphical database, with larger, kilometre scales, is provided by the widespread practice of electric (wire‐line) logging of deep wells. This involves measurement, at 6‐inch (~15 cm) depth intervals of lithology‐related petrophysical properties. Rapid desk top computer analysis of the hundreds or thousands of readings that comprise these two data series, searches for patterns of variation. This review considers the published evidence for ‘ubiquitous’ cyclicity and its use in chronostratigraphy, despite the contrary claims that stratigraphical records are predominantly random in character.
Managing ‘sick days’ in patients with chronic conditions: An exploration of patient and healthcare provider experiences
Authors: Dhaliwal Kirnvir K. , Watson Kaitlyn E. , Lamont Nicole C. , Drall Kelsea M. , Donald Maoliosa , James Matthew T. , Robertshaw Sandra , Verdin Nancy , Benterud Eleanor , McBrien Kerry , Gil Sarah , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Pannu Neesh , Campbell David J. T.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

People with chronic medical conditions often take medications that improve long‐term outcomes but which can be harmful during acute illness. Guidelines recommend that healthcare providers offer instructions to temporarily stop these medications when patients are sick (i.e., sick days). We describe the experiences of patients managing sick days and of healthcare providers providing sick day guidance to their patients.

Methods

We undertook a qualitative descriptive study. We purposively sampled patients and healthcare providers from across Canada. Adult patients were eligible if they took at least two medications for diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and/or kidney disease. Healthcare providers were eligible if they were practising in a community setting with at least 1 year of experience. Data were collected using virtual focus groups and individual phone interviews conducted in English. Team members analyzed transcripts using conventional content analysis.

Results

We interviewed 48 participants (20 patients and 28 healthcare providers). Most patients were between 50 and 64 years of age and identified their health status as ‘good’. Most healthcare providers were between 45 and 54 years of age and the majority practised as pharmacists in urban areas. We identified three overarching themes that summarize the experiences of patients and healthcare providers, largely suggesting a broad spectrum in approaches to managing sick days: Individualized Communication, Tailored Sick Day Practices, and Variation in Knowledge of Sick Day Practices and Relevant Resources.

Conclusion

It is important to understand the perspectives of both patients and healthcare providers with respect to the management of sick days. This understanding can be used to improve care and outcomes for people living with chronic conditions during sick days.

Patient or Public Contribution

Two patient partners were involved from proposal development to the dissemination of our findings, including manuscript development. Both patient partners took part in team meetings and contributed to team decision‐making. Patient partners also participated in data analysis by reviewing codes and theme development. Furthermore, patients living with various chronic conditions and healthcare providers participated in focus groups and individual interviews.
Play and Freedom: Patterns of Life in the Spirit
Authors: Zahl Simeon
Published: June 2023

This article explores the pneumatological theme of the freedom of the Spirit from the perspective of experience. It deploys a recently developed methodology of attending to affective and experiential dynamics in pneumatology to identify two significant patterns or modalities of Christian life in the Spirit that are indexed to the Spirit's freedom: a pattern of divine resistance to human attempts to control God, characterized on the human side by experiences of disruption as well as dynamic creativity; and a pattern of life free from the tyranny of the law, characterized by a modality of play or playfulness, as explored in the work of Nimi Wariboko. In identifying and illuminating these patterns, this article extends a project of seeking to make explicit the connections between Christian doctrinal concepts and Christian experience into a new domain, and responds to a long‐standing concern that theologies of sanctification emphasizing freedom have little to say about the positive shape of Christian life in the Spirit.
Learning from the past and present to change the future: Endoscopic management of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Yoshida Takashi , Ohe Chisato , Nakamoto Takahiro , Kinoshita Hidefumi
Published: June 2023

Current guidelines recommend endoscopic management (EM) for patients with low‐risk upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma, as well as those with an imperative indication. However, regardless of the tumor risk, radical nephroureterectomy is still mainly performed worldwide despite the benefits of EM, such as renal function maintenance, no hemodialysis requirement, and treatment cost reduction. This might be explained by the association of EM with a high risk of local recurrence and progression. Furthermore, the need for rigorous patient selection and close surveillance following EM may be relevant. Nevertheless, recent developments in diagnostic modalities, pathological evaluation, surgical devices and techniques, and intracavitary regimens have been reported, which may contribute to improved risk stratification and treatments with superior oncological outcomes. In this review, considering recent advances in endourology and oncology, we propose novel treatment strategies for optimal EM.
Nanoscale toughening of low carbon Al2O3‐C refractories by means of SiCnw/Al2O3 composite reinforcement
Authors: Chong Xiaochuan , Luo Jiyuan , Ding Donghai , Jin Shengli , Xiao Guoqing
Published: June 2023

To improve the thermal shock resistance of low carbon Al2O3‐C refractories, SiC nanowires (SiCnw) containing SiCnw/Al2O3 composite reinforcement were introduced. The specific fracture energy of the Al2O3‐C refractory matrix was obtained by statistical grid nano‐indentation. The reinforcement mechanism of SiCnw/Al2O3 on thermal shock resistance of refractories was investigated. The results revealed that the matrix‐specific fracture energy of A6 (6 wt% SiCnw/Al2O3 added) was 217 N/m, which was 58.4% higher than reference sample A0 (137 N/m) and 18.6% higher than MA6 (183 N/m, 6 wt% SiC/Al2O3 added). A6 showed the highest residual strength ratio of 49.8%, which was 114.7 % higher than A0 (23.2%) and 82.4 % higher than MA6 (27.3%). The components with different morphology in SiCnw/Al2O3 cluster, especially SiC nanowires, promote the generation of microcracks, crack multi‐deflection, and branching, which toughen the matrix and improve the thermal shock resistance of refractories. In comparison to the literature, A6 showed a higher rising in residual strength ratio than those with higher graphite content (4 wt% and 20 wt%), which will greatly reduce the consumption of carbon‐containing refractories and contribute to the reduction of CO2 emission.
Healthcare workers' experiences of patient safety in the intensive care unit during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A multicentre qualitative study
Authors: Berggren Karin , Ekstedt Mirjam , Joelsson‐Alm Eva , Swedberg Lena , Sackey Peter , Schandl Anna
Published: June 2023

Aim

To describe healthcare workers' experiences of preconditions and patient safety risks in intensive care units during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

Healthcare workers' ability to adapt to changing conditions is crucial to promote patient safety. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, healthcare workers' capacity to maintain safe care was challenged and a more in‐depth understanding on frontline experiences of patient safety is needed.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Individual interviews were conducted with 29 healthcare workers (nurses, physicians, nurse assistants and physiotherapists) from three Swedish hospitals directly involved in intensive care of COVID‐19 patients. Data were analysed with inductive content analysis. Reporting followed the COREQ checklist.

Results

Three categories were identified. Hazardous changes in working conditions describes patient safety challenges associated with the extreme workload with high stress level. Imperative adaptations induced by changed preconditions for patient safety which include descriptions of safety risks following adaptations related to temporary intensive care facilities, handling shortage of medical equipment and deviations from routines. Safety risks triggered by reorganisation of care describe how the diluted skill‐mix and team disruptions exposed patients to safety risks, and that safety performance mostly relied on individual healthcare worker's responsibility.

Conclusions

The study suggests that healthcare workers experienced an increase in patient safety risks during the COVID‐19 pandemic mainly because the extremely high workload, imperative adaptations, and reorganisation of care regarding skill‐mix and teamwork. Patient safety performance relied on the individuals' adaptability and responsibility rather than on system‐based safety.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study provides insights on how healthcare workers' experiences can be used as a source of information for recognition of patient safety risks. To improve detection of safety risks during future crises, guidelines on how to approach safety from a system perspective must include healthcare workers' perceptions on safety risks.

Patient and Public Contribution

None in the conceptualisation or design of the study.
“Because I feel like I want to be heard, you know?:” Carceral citizenship and collateral consequences
Authors: Ewald Alec C.
Published: June 2023

Joining a critical literature on carceral citizenship in the United States, this article represents one of the first academic efforts to ascertain the ideas of people with criminal records about “collateral consequences,” which are the civil restrictions often facing people with records. In 32 extended interviews with people visiting a reentry organization in New York City, a majority argued that people with conviction backgrounds should be eligible to vote and serve on juries, and most said they would like to be able to participate themselves. Interviewees did express intensely skeptical ideas, particularly about the police and employers, but this was a limited or bounded cynicism. Distrust and antagonism toward specific institutions existed alongside a strongly‐stated desire to engage in civic activity.
Microplastics in the menu of Mediterranean zooplankton: Insights from the feeding response of the calanoid copepod Centropages typicus
Authors: Traboni Claudia , Sarno Diana , Ribera d'Alcalà Maurizio , Mazzocchi Maria Grazia
Published: June 2023

Microplastic input into the ocean represents an increasing threat to marine biota and may endanger the functioning of marine ecosystems, especially in semi‐enclosed basins, such as the Mediterranean Sea. The size spectrum of microplastics overlaps with that of nano‐microplankton (2–200 μm), thus potentially misleading suspension‐feeding zooplankton, which represent a key trophic link in pelagic food webs. We investigated the effects of microplastics on the feeding performance of the copepod Centropages typicus in laboratory experiments. Adult females were incubated in natural prey assemblages under different conditions: without and with nutrient enrichment, and in the presence and absence of microplastics (20–1000 μm). Non‐significant changes were recorded in either copepod ingestion rates or daily rations upon microplastic addition. However, the copepod diet shifted significantly in the presence of microplastics, as the copepods fulfilled their individual carbon requirements by ingesting different protistan prey. The number of microplastic particles found in copepod guts (0.9 particles ind.−1) and fecal pellets (2.1 particles pellet−1) was low and particles occurred mostly in the lower size range (∽20 μm). Overall, the exposure of C. typicus to microplastics did not affect the copepod daily intake of food, likely due to the avoidance of microplastics and flexible feeding habits.
Maternal effect senescence via reduced DNA repair ability in the three‐spined stickleback
Authors: Kim Sin‐Yeon , Chiara Violette , Álvarez‐Quintero Náyade , da Silva Alberto , Velando Alberto
Published: June 2023

Maternal effect senescence, a decline in offspring viability with maternal age, has been documented across diverse animals, but its mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we test maternal effect senescence and explore its possible molecular mechanisms in a fish. We compared the levels of maternal mRNA transcripts of DNA repair genes and mtDNA copies in eggs and the levels of DNA damage in somatic and germline tissues between young and old female sticklebacks. We also tested, in an in vitro fertilization experiment, whether maternal age and sperm DNA damage level interactively influence the expression of DNA repair genes in early embryos. Old females transferred less mRNA transcripts of DNA repair genes into their eggs than did young females, but maternal age did not influence egg mtDNA density. Despite a higher level of oxidative DNA damage in the skeletal muscle, old females had a similar level of damage in the gonad to young females, suggesting the prioritization for germline maintenance during ageing. The embryos of both old and young mothers increased the expression of DNA repair genes in response to an increased level of oxidative DNA damage in sperm used for their fertilization. The offspring of old mothers showed higher rates of hatching, morphological deformity and post‐hatching mortality and had smaller body size at maturity. These results suggest that maternal effect senescence may be mediated by reduced capacity of eggs to detect and repair DNA damages, especially prior to the embryonic genomic activation.
Impatiens spiralis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Authors: Zheng Yi‐Ming , Zhang Gui‐Liang , Wu Nan‐Fei , Hu Tian , Cong Yi‐Yan
Published: June 2023

Impatiens spiralis, a new species of Balsaminaceae from Hekou County, Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to I. hongkongensis, but differs in its obovate‐lanceolate or oblong lamina, without glands at base, spirally curved spur and dorsal petal suborbicular or oblate. Moreover, a phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear ITS and plastid atpB‐rbcL suggests that the new species should be placed in I. subg. Clavicarpa.
Fritillaria shehbazii and F. selenica (Liliaceae), two new species from Iran
Authors: Advay Mahfouz , Tekşen Mehtap
Published: June 2023

Two new species, Fritillaria shehbazii from Western Azerbaijan province in northwest Iran and F. selenica from Kurdistan province in western Iran are described. Fritillaria shehbazii is similar to F. chlororhabdota, F. pinardii, F. zagrica, F. kordestanica, F. assyriaca and F. umitkaplanii in the F. caucasica‐group in general facies, but differs mainly by the colour and size of its lowest leaves, and shape and colour of perigone segments. Fritillaria selenica is similar to F. assyriaca and F. kordestanica in general facies, but differs mainly by narrower leaves. Detailed taxonomic descriptions, diagnostic characters, original photographs, geographical distributions, habitat, phenology and ecology, etymology, conservation status and phylogenetic analysis of the new and the related species are presented.
Status of Biodiversity in a Protected Area of Kashmir Himalaya: Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary
Authors: Wani Zishan Ahmad , Pant Shreekar
Published: June 2023

The present study attempts to comprehensively study the floristic elements of Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary (GWLS), Kashmir Himalaya. During the present study 364 species of vascular plants belonging to 227 genera and 74 families were recorded from the sanctuary. A total of 18 communities (10 within forest and 8 within alpine zone) were identified. Forest zone of the sanctuary was represented by shady moist, dry, bouldery, rocky, riverine and exposed habitats; whereas the alpine zone was represented by bouldery, riverine and moist and exposed habitats. Of the total 364 reported plant species, 161 species were native to Himalayan region and the remaining i.e. 203 species were non‐natives. Out the total 161 native plant species, 82 were endemic to the Himalayan region. Further, 22 plant species were having threatened status in Jammu and Kashmir. Major threats to biodiversity within the sanctuary include overexploitation, habitat degradation, overgrazing, invasive species, human settlements, huge tourism influx and pollution. In the present study, based on the 'conservation priority index' (CPI) of the plant species, 51 plant species were assessed to be threatened in GWLS. Further, maximum CPI of dry and shady moist habitats and Aesculus indica–Pinus wallichiana mixed and Taxus wallichiana–Prunus cornuta–Aesculus indica mixed communities reveals that proper management of these prioritized habitats and communities would help in maintaining the natural ecosystems and conservation of species of the sanctuary. Present study recommends that awareness about the values of biodiversity for sustenance through organization of training workshops, awareness camps need to be created among the local inhabitants as well as visitors. Further, no in‐depth explorations for community characterization of forest and as well as alpine ecosystems of Kashmir Himalaya have been conducted; present study in the GWLS provides a template, which can be replicated in other protected as well as unprotected areas of the Kashmir Himalaya.
Unique dentition of rhynchosaurs and their two‐phase success as herbivores in the Triassic
Authors: Sethapanichsakul Thitiwoot , Coram Robert A. , Benton Michael J.
Published: June 2023

Rhynchosaurs were key herbivores over much of the world in the Middle and Late Triassic, often dominating their faunas ecologically, and much of their success may relate to their dentition. They show the unique ankylothecodont mode of tooth implantation, with deep roots embedded in the bone of the jaw and low crowns that were rapidly worn down in use. During growth, the main area of oral food processing, located in the middle and posterior portions of the occlusal surfaces of the jaws, moved posteriorly relative to the anterior tips of the jaws, which curved up. As the maxilla and dentary grew by addition of new bone posteriorly, the dental lamina fed in new teeth at the back of the tooth rows. CT scanning of the holotype skull of Bentonyx sidensis from the Middle Triassic of England reveals previously concealed details of the dentition. Together with new dentary material from the same location, this has enabled us to examine the tooth replacement process and elucidate ontogenetic changes in dentition and jaw morphology as the animals aged. There were major changes in rhynchosaur anatomy and function through their evolutionary history, with the early forms of the Middle Triassic dying out before or during the Carnian Pluvial Episode (233–232 Ma), and the subclade Hyperodapedontinae, with broad skulls and adaptations to chop tough vegetation, subsequently diversifying worldwide in a successful ecological expansion until their global extinction 227–225 Ma.
Genetic variation in ZmWAX2 confers maize resistance to Fusarium verticillioides
Authors: Ma Peipei , Liu Enpeng , Zhang Zhirui , Li Tao , Zhou Zijian , Yao Wen , Chen Jiafa , Wu Jianyu , Xu Yufang , Zhang Huiyong
Published: June 2023

Fusarium verticillioides (F. verticillioides) is a widely distributed phytopathogen that incites multiple destructive diseases in maize, posing a grave threat to corn yields and quality worldwide. However, there are few reports of resistance genes to F. verticillioides. Here, we reveal that a combination of two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) corresponding to ZmWAX2 gene associates with quantitative resistance variations to F. verticillioides in maize through a genome‐wide association study. A lack of ZmWAX2 compromises maize resistance to F. verticillioides‐caused seed rot, seedling blight and stalk rot by reducing cuticular wax deposition, while the transgenic plants overexpressing ZmWAX2 show significantly increased immunity to F. verticillioides. A natural occurrence of two 7‐bp deletions within the promoter increases ZmWAX2 transcription, thus enhancing maize resistance to F. verticillioides. Upon Fusarium stalk rot, ZmWAX2 greatly promotes the yield and grain quality of maize. Our studies demonstrate that ZmWAX2 confers multiple disease resistances caused by F. verticillioides and can serve as an important gene target for the development of F. verticillioides‐resistant maize varieties.
Clinal variation in PHY (PAS domain) and CRY (CCT domain)—Signs of local adaptation to light quality in Norway spruce
Authors: Ranade Sonali Sachin , García‐Gil María Rosario
Published: June 2023

Detection of the genomic basis of local adaptation to environmental conditions is challenging in forest trees. Phytochromes (PHY) and cryptochromes (CRY) perceive the red (R)/far‐red (FR) and blue light respectively, thus playing a fundamental role in regulating plant growth and development. PHYO and PHYP from conifers are the equivalents of PHYA/PHYC and PHYB in angiosperms, respectively. Norway spruce shows an adaptive latitudinal cline for shade (low R:FR or FR‐enriched light) tolerance and requirement of FR light for its growth. We analyzed the exome capture data that included a uniquely large data set of 1654 Norway spruce trees sampled across many latitudes in Sweden to capture the natural clines for photoperiod and FR light exposure during the growth season. Statistically significant clinal variation was detected in allele and genotype frequencies of missense mutations in coding regions belonging to well‐defined functional domains of PHYO (PAS‐B), PHYP2 (PAS fold‐2), CRY1 (CCT1) and CRY2 (CCT2) that strongly correlates with the latitudinal gradient in response to variable light quality in Norway spruce. The missense SNP in PHYO resulting in Asn835Ser, displayed the steepest cline among all other polymorphisms. We propose that these variations in the photoreceptors represent signs of local adaptation to light quality.
Clinical and epidemiological profile of lichen striatus in children—Experience from a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Mendiratta Vibhu , Meena Amit Kumar
Published: June 2023

We analyzed records of 30 patients with lichen striatus (age < 18 years) in this retrospective study. Seventy percent were females and 30% were males with a mean age of diagnosis of 5.38 ± 4.22 years. The most common age group affected was 0–4 years. The mean duration of lichen striatus was 6.66 ± 4.22 months. Atopy was present in 9 (30%) patients. Although LS is a benign self‐limited dermatosis, long‐term prospective studies with a greater number of patients will help in better understanding of the disease including its etiopathogenesis and association with atopy.
Hidden treasures or red flags? A recruiter's view of (not) hiring former entrepreneurs into corporate jobs
Authors: Feng Jie , Wang Danni , Huang Lei , Zhang Ruoyong
Published: June 2023

Entrepreneurs may enter the labor market to seek alternative employment opportunities, and their job applications are gaining increasing attention. With a focus on the recruiting side, we leverage the role congruity theory to examine how recruiters with various characteristics and backgrounds assess former entrepreneurs who apply for corporate jobs. We propose that job applicants with entrepreneurial experience will systematically receive fewer offers than otherwise equally qualified non‐entrepreneur applicants. However, we also suggest that this “entrepreneurship‐penalty effect” will be weakened when the recruiters are female, have shorter organizational tenure, or have entrepreneurial experience. We tested our hypotheses in a policy‐capturing experiment with follow‐up surveys using a sample collected in 2019 and 2022, that is, before and after the outbreak of COVID‐19. We found general support for our hypotheses and identified recruiters’ preferences for entrepreneur‐applicants at two‐time points. Results revealed that recruiters of different characteristics and backgrounds had varying assessments of former entrepreneur applicants, which provides implications for both sides of recruitment.
Outcomes of pediatric deceased donor kidney transplant in northeast Thailand
Authors: Ratviset Preeyapat , Panombualert Sunee , Chathum Kannika , Wisanuyotin Suwannee
Published: June 2023

Background

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best therapy in children with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), however, improving long‐term graft survival remains challenging. The aim of this study was to determine graft survival and potential risk factors in pediatric patients who undergo deceased donor KT with a steroid‐based regimen.

Methods

The medical records of children who underwent their first deceased donor KT in Srinagarind Hospital (Khon Kaen, Thailand) between 2001 and 2020 were reviewed.

Results

Seventy‐two patients were studied. Male adolescents were the predominant recipients and the majority of donors were young adult males. Non‐glomerular disease, particularly hypoplastic/dysplastic kidney disease, was the major cause of ESRD (48.61%). The mean cold ischemic time (CIT) was 18.29 ± 5.29 h. Most of the recipients had more than 4 human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatched loci with positive HLA‐DR mismatch (52.78%). Induction therapy was administered in 76.74% of recipients. Tacrolimus plus mycophenolate sodium and prednisolone was the most common immunosuppressive maintenance regimen (69.44%). Graft failure occurred in 18 patients, mostly due to graft rejection (50%). Graft survival at 1, 3, and 5 years after KT were 94.40%, 86.25%, and 74.92%, respectively. The only significant risk factor of graft failure in this study was delayed graft function (DGF) (adjusted HR = 3.55; 95%CI: 1.14, 11.12; p = .029). Patient survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 100%, 98.48%, and 96.19%, respectively.

Conclusion

The short‐term outcomes of pediatric KT from deceased donors were satisfactory; however, prevention of DGF would result in better outcomes.
Life‐threatening variceal bleeding after liver transplantation and extensive portal vein thrombosis: Desperate times call for desperate measures
Authors: de Assis AndréMoreira , de Carvalho Melo José Andrade , Kawakami Willian Yoshinori , Moreira Airton Mota , Carnevale Francisco Cesar , Massami Hayashi , Hirschfeld Adriana Porta Miche , Pugliese Renata Pereira Sustovich , Foronda Flavia Krepel , Paulino Ricardo Gorgulho , de Araújo André Augusto , Fonseca Eduardo Antunes , Seda Neto João
Published: June 2023

Background

The management of complex, intra‐ and extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis (PVT) after liver transplantation (LT) is challenging. Although most of the patients remain asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic in the chronic setting, some of them may develop severe portal hypertension and related complications, notably gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. In the emergency scenario, clinical and endoscopic treatments as well as intensive support constitute the bases of conservative management, while more definitive treatment options such as surgical shunting and retransplantation are related to high morbidity rates. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was largely considered of limited role due to technical difficulties arising from extensive PVT. Recently, however, new minimally invasive image‐guided techniques emerged, allowing portal vein recanalization and TIPS creation simultaneously (TIPS‐PVR), even in complex PVT pretransplant patients.

Methods

Herein, we describe a novel indication for TIPS‐PVR in a post‐LT adolescent presenting with life‐threatening, refractory GI bleeding.

Results

The patient presented with complete resolution of the hemorrhagic condition after the procedure, with no deterioration of hepatic function or hepatic encephalopathy. Follow‐up Doppler ultrasound after TIPS‐PVR showed normal hepatopetal venous flow within the stents, and no evidence of complications, including intraperitoneal or peri splenic bleeding.

Conclusions

This report describes the feasibility of TIPS‐PVR in the post‐LT scenario complicated by extensive PVT. In this case, a complete resolution of the life‐threatening GI bleeding was achieved, with no major complications. Other patients with complex chronic PVT might benefit from the use of the described technique, but further studies are required to determine the correct timing and indications of the procedure, eventually before the occurrence of life‐threatening complications.
How to operate ship fleets under uncertainty
Authors: Wu Yiwei , Wang Shuaian , Zhen Lu , Laporte Gilbert , Tan Zheyi , Wang Kai
Published: June 2023

Ships operated by a liner company are scattered around the world to transport goods. A liner company needs to adjust its shipping network every few months by repositioning its ships to respond to uncertain container shipping demand. Few studies investigate a liner company's multiperiod heterogeneous fleet deployment problem under uncertainty, considering fleet repositioning, ship chartering, demand fulfillment, cargo allocation, and adaptive fleet sizes. To this end, this study formulates a mixed‐integer linear programming model that captures all of these elements. This study also designs a Benders‐based branch‐and‐cut algorithm for this non‐deterministic polynomial‐time (NP)‐hard problem. Two types of acceleration strategies, including approximate upper bound tightening inequalities and Pareto‐optimal cuts, are applied to improve the performance of the algorithm. Extensive numerical experiments show that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms CPLEX and its Benders decomposition framework in solving the model. We conduct an intensive analysis and find that multistage stochastic programming can lead to better solutions than two‐stage stochastic programming. We also find that 10% of the benefit provided by the multistage model over the two‐stage model is due to better fleet deployment decisions and that 90% of the benefit is due to better demand fulfillment and allocation decisions. By exploring three practical questions regarding driver analysis of liner company profitability, benefits analysis of adaptive fleet sizes, and the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic on liner shipping, we show how liner companies can benefit from managerial insights obtained in this study.
MCP‐1/CCR2 axis is involved in the regulation of γδT cells in lupus nephritis
Authors: Deng Ting , Lei Feifei , Wang Zhongyu , Wang Yangbin , Li Gang , Zhu Yunhe , Du Boyu , Xi Xueyan
Published: June 2023

γδT cells are important innate immune cells that are involved in the occurrence and development of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious complication of SLE, characterized by the accumulation of immune cells (including γδT cells) in the target organs to participate in the disease process. Therefore, clarifying how γδT cells chemotactically migrate to target organs may be a key to developing therapeutic methods against LN. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect serum levels of chemokines in LN patients and healthy controls. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and flow cytometry were used to measure the expression of chemokine receptors on the surface of γδT cells. The chemotactic migration ability of γδT cells was detected by Transwell assay. Signalling pathway activation of γδT cells was detected by Automated Capillary Electrophoresis Immunoassay and flow cytometry. The serum levels of chemokines, including monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) in LN patients, were significantly increased. CCR2, the receptor of MCP‐1, was also highly expressed on the surface of peripheral γδT cells in LN patients. In addition, the exogenous addition of MCP‐1 can enhance chemotactic migration of γδT cells in LN patients. MCP‐1 could activate STAT3 signalling in LN patients' peripheral γδT cells. γδT cells might participate in the pathogenesis of LN through MCP‐1/CCR2 axis. This finding provides new opportunities for developing treatment methods against LN by targeting MCP‐1/CCR2 axis.