bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RaTEScore: A Metric for Radiology Report Generation
Authors: Zhao Weike , Wu Chaoyi , Zhang Xiaoman , Zhang Ya , Wang Yanfeng , Xie Weidi
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a novel, entity-aware metric, termed as Radiological Report (Text) Evaluation (RaTEScore), to assess the quality of medical reports generated by AI models. RaTEScore emphasizes crucial medical entities such as diagnostic outcomes and anatomical details, and is robust against complex medical synonyms and sensitive to negation expressions. Technically, we developed a comprehensive medical NER dataset, RaTE-NER, and trained an NER model specifically for this purpose. This model enables the decomposition of complex radiological reports into constituent medical entities. The metric itself is derived by comparing the similarity of entity embeddings, obtained from a language model, based on their types and relevance to clinical significance. Our evaluations demonstrate that RaTEScore aligns more closely with human preference than existing metrics, validated both on established public benchmarks and our newly proposed RaTE-Eval benchmark.
Does CEA or EUA matter for major commodity markets? Fresh evidence from the analysis of information spillovers and portfolio diversification
Authors: Zhang Jiahao , Wei Yu
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study conducts a comparative analysis of the diversification effects of China's national carbon market (CEA) and the EU ETS Phase IV (EUA) within major commodity markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the TVP-VAR extension of the spillover index framework to scrutinize the information spillovers among the energy, agriculture, metal, and carbon markets. Subsequently, the study explores practical applications of these findings, emphasizing how investors can harness insights from information spillovers to refine their investment strategies.

Findings

First, the CEA provide ample opportunities for portfolio diversification between the energy, agriculture, and metal markets, a desirable feature that the EUA does not possess. Second, a portfolio comprising exclusively energy and carbon assets often exhibits the highest Sharpe ratio. Nevertheless, the inclusion of agricultural and metal commodities in a carbon-oriented portfolio may potentially compromise its performance. Finally, our results underscore the pronounced advantage of minimum spillover portfolios; particularly those that designed minimize net pairwise volatility spillover, in the context of China's national carbon market.

Originality/value

This study addresses the previously unexplored intersection of information spillovers and portfolio diversification in major commodity markets, with an emphasis on the role of CEA.
The puzzle of innovation and innovation strategies in Kenyan academic libraries
Authors: Otike Fredrick , Hajdu Barát Ágnes , Kiszl Péter
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The advancement of technology has brought much uncertainty in the access and utilization of information resources in academic libraries. This research sought to determine the extent to which academic libraries in Kenya engage in innovation and use innovative strategies. In addition, this study aims to identify the specific innovation practices and strategies used by these libraries to ensure they effectively address users’ information needs and remain relevant within the Kenyan context.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative research design. Data was collected using face-to-face interviews that targeted key personnel in the academic library system, including the university librarian, the circulation librarian and the digital/systems librarian. In total, 21 respondents were interviewed in this study. Additional data was gathered by examining primary documents such as academic library policies, university websites and library brochures, among other sources. The study used purposive sampling techniques to select the population sample and the theoretical saturation to determine the sample size.

Findings

The study revealed a pressing need for change in the academic library landscape in Kenya. It established that the concept of innovation and innovation strategies is still new in academic libraries in Kenya, and libraries are still confined to traditional and routine duties. There is a lack of appropriate strategies for enhancing innovation practices/strategies in academic libraries. The paper, therefore, strongly recommends the reorganization of academic libraries in Kenya.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to analyze innovation strategies and practices in academic libraries in Kenya. This study sheds light on the puzzles facing most academic libraries in Kenya regarding innovation and innovation strategies. It introduces the importance of academic libraries to embrace innovation as a strategy to avoid disruptive innovation.
The role of omnichannel integration and digital value in building brand trust: a customer psychological perception perspective
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Hu Dongbin , Chen Xiaohong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In the dynamic landscape of the digital economy, companies are increasingly adopting omnichannel integration strategies to enhance customer experiences. However, the interplay between this strategy and digitalisation in fostering brand trust remains uncharted. Drawing on the social exchange and psychological reactance theories, this study ventures into unexplored territory by examining the impact of omnichannel integration and digital value on brand trust building. It also delves into the boundary roles of customers’ psychological perceptions, both positive (customer empowerment) and negative (privacy concerns and perceived deception), in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted an online survey of 595 omnichannel users in China and validated the model using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

This study’s results have significant implications for businesses. They show that customer perception of omnichannel integration and perceived digital value are critical drivers of omnichannel brand trust, with customer empowerment playing a mediating role. Notably, the study also reveals that customers’ negative psychological perceptions can have different moderating effects, highlighting the need for businesses to address these concerns in their omnichannel strategies.

Originality/value

This study breaks new ground in marketing research by highlighting the benefits of omnichannel integration and incorporating digital perspectives. It demonstrates the positive impact of blending customer perception of omnichannel integration and perceived digital value on brand trust formation. Furthermore, it explores the boundary roles of customers’ psychological perceptions in this process, offering a unique and comprehensive perspective.
WELL building for developing countries: critical design criteria for residential buildings in Malaysia
Authors: Zamani Salma Husna , Rahman Rahimi A. , Yusof Liyana Mohamed , Naganathan Hariharan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the interrelationship between critical design criteria (CDC) that affect health, well-being and productivity (i.e. WELL) for residential buildings in developing countries, using Malaysia as a case study. To achieve the aim, the objectives are to identify CDC that affect WELL collectively; determine CDC that affect health, well-being, and productivity simultaneously; and analyze the interrelationship between the CDC.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from the semi-structured interviews and a systematic review of the existing literature were gathered for survey development. Next, survey data was collected from 114 professionals living in multistory buildings. Finally, normalized mean analysis, analytic hierarchy process (AHP), agreement analysis and Spearman correlation analysis were used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

Out of the 51 potential design criteria, 16 are critically affecting WELL collectively. Furthermore, six are critically affecting WELL collectively as well as health, well-being and productivity simultaneously: property price, water flow and supply, water treatment, pest management, management services and waste management. Finally, “water treatment” is highly correlated to “water management” and “water flow and supply.” In addition, “waste management” and “management services,” as well as “fire safety” and “emergency evacuation plans,” are highly correlated.

Originality/value

This study's originality includes investigating the CDC of residential buildings for the first time, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, in a developing country. As a result, this study uncovers holistic design criteria for policymakers to establish holistic building assessment tools for residential buildings.
Boardroom dynamics: the impact of board gender diversity on discretionary dividend policy in US REITs
Authors: Yousef Ibrahim , Zighan Saad , Aly Doaa , Hussainey Khaled
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address a notable gap in the existing literature by exploring the relationship between gender diversity and dividend policy within the context of US Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a substantial data set comprising 1,398 firm-year observations across 209 US REIT companies from 2011 to 2021 to address the research aims. Fixed effects models and generalized least squares regression methods are used in the analysis.

Findings

The results demonstrate a significant positive association between board gender diversity and higher dividend payouts among US REITs. This relationship holds after controlling for corporate governance and other firm-level factors. The findings have strong implications that the presence of women on REIT boards contributes to a greater propensity for discretionary dividend increases in the USA.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature by empirically examining female directors’ role in influencing US REITs’ dividend policies, an area lacking adequate prior scholarship. The paper also considers the unique regulatory environment of REITs, highlighting the importance of the study for externally financed firms.
Ethical issues in the halal food supply chain: a systematic bibliometric review
Authors: Mustapha Mohamad Reeduan , Ahamad Farhana , Hazahari Noor Yuslida , Samsudin Nurhusna
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Systematic reviews have contributed substantially to the development of knowledge in various academic fields and have helped discover new research potentials in a systematic manner. Specifically, this study aims to conduct a systematic bibliometric review to address ethical issues across the halal food supply chain (HFSC), as well as to identify the ethical challenges that food handlers face in ensuring authenticity, compliance with Shariah law and avoidance of contamination with non-halal ingredients in halal food products.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric approach was used to analyse 263 publications from the Scopus database. The present research analysed the documents’ bibliographical data based on publication year, source title, country of origin, institution, authorship, keywords and citation count. The VOSviewer software was applied to perform citation and co-word analysis, as well as to construct bibliometric networks centred on the topic of ethical issues in the HFSC. This bibliometric review provides valuable insights for researchers to identify key publications and comprehend the foundational structure of the subject matter. It also helps guide future research into significant trends and new areas of study.

Findings

Citation analysis provides valuable insights into influential publications and the interconnectedness of research on HFSC. A co-word analysis revealed that discussions on ethics and integrity in the HFSC primarily revolved around the concept of halal and its implications, particularly in supply chain management. However, the limited frequency and prominence of these keywords suggests a scarcity of academic discourse on ethical matters in this field. Moreover, ethical considerations not only serve as a critical aspect of ensuring halal integrity but also emerge as a strategic imperative in marketing, brand management and the operation of global businesses.

Originality/value

This study addresses the need to examine the knowledge gap in the literature on ethical practices and issues in HFSC. Although there is a significant amount of academic writing in the halal context, there is a scarcity of research that specifically focuses on the ethical aspects of HFSC. This study also offers a framework for investigating the ethical practices and issues in HFSC.
Immersive language learning: evaluating augmented reality filter for ESL speaking fluency teaching
Authors: Mohd Nabil Nor Sanak , Nordin Hasniza , Ab Rahman Faizahani
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how the integration of augmented reality (AR) filters into English as a second language (ESL) can enhance speaking fluency teaching. The study sheds light on how AR filter can be best implemented in speaking fluency teaching by the innovative opportunities to transform language learning experiences. In this study, ESL teachers' perceptions and experiences with AR filters in speaking fluency instructions were examined through qualitative research method.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is an evaluation stage study within a bigger study which utilized design and developmental research (DDR) approach. In this third phase of DDR which is the evaluation phase, this study involved semi-structured interviews with six ESL teachers from six different public secondary school settings. Thematic analysis was conducted on the interview transcripts.

Findings

Data analysis revealed several key findings regarding the utilization of AR filters in ESL speaking fluency teaching. Firstly, participants reported that AR filters can be best used in various educational settings. Secondly, AR filters were found to provide supports for various students’ levels. Thirdly, participants identified that AR filters can be best used to cater students with diverse learning styles.

Research limitations/implications

The work aims to help ESL educators in using AR filters in their speaking fluency teaching. The limitation of this study is that it includes only the experience of teachers from a public secondary school setting without taking into consideration other secondary institutions such as ESL teachers from private schools or boarding schools. The generalizability of our findings may be affected due to our reliance on self-reported data from a small sample size.

Practical implications

The implications of these findings for ESL pedagogy and teacher professional development are discussed. By incorporating AR filters into ESL speaking fluency instruction, educators can create speaking fluency teaching in various settings such as formal and informal settings. Furthermore, ESL teachers may immerse students in environments that cater to the diverse language learners' styles and language levels through the use of AR filter. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential of AR filters to transform ESL teaching and learning practices, paving the way for future innovations in language education.

Originality/value

Available studies exploring AR in English teaching exist, but very limited of those utilized markerless AR, in the form of AR filters with speaking fluency teaching. Also, this paper focused on teachers’ experience with AR filters in contrast to students’ experience in public secondary school settings.
Navigating brand purpose in the post-pandemic era: insights from marketing agencies on supporting SDGs through strategic delineation and execution
Authors: Feri Alessandro , Ind Nicholas Jonathan , Tjandra Nathalia Christiani
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of marketing agencies in aligning brand purpose with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the post-pandemic era. This study explores whether and how marketing agencies delineate and execute brand purpose in a way that supports sustainable consumption and marketing models.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from semi-structured interviews with 35 senior managers at UK-based marketing agencies. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using NVivo software for inductive coding.

Findings

The study reveals that brand purpose in the post-pandemic era is increasingly aligned with the SDGs. Marketing agencies play a pivotal role in this alignment, as they not only help to delineate and execute the brand purpose but also do so in a way that amplifies perceived authenticity in the eyes of the brand stakeholders.

Originality/value

This research underscores the significance of marketing agencies in delineating and executing brand purpose that aligns with the SDGs. It enriches the literature by illustrating how agency expertise contributes to the evolution of brand purpose, guiding businesses towards responsible marketing practices and consumption patterns that support a sustainable future.
Climate policy uncertainty and energy impacts on trade openness and foreign direct investment in the United States: Evidence from the RALS co‐integration test
Authors: Eweade Babatunde Sunday , Güngör Hasan
Published: June 2024

Climate change is becoming an increasingly pressing global issue, and understanding how climate policy uncertainty affects trade openness and foreign direct investment is crucial. This study provides contemporary insights into this complex relationship, particularly in the context of the United States, which is a major player in global trade and investment. The study employed a monthly dataset spanning from January 1990M01 to December 2020M12. Co‐integration exists between all the variables specified by employing Residual Augmented Least Squares (RALS‐EG), climate policy uncertainty, and fossil fuel consumption adverse influence upon trade openness and foreign direct investment, economic growth, and renewable energy consumption positive impact upon trade openness and foreign direct investment via the use of fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS), and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS). The Fourier Toda‐Yamamoto causality reveals that climate policy uncertainty, economic growth, renewable energy, and trade openness exhibit bidirectional causality, while fossil fuels exhibit unidirectional causality. Based on the findings, policymakers should prioritize reducing climate policy uncertainty to create a more stable environment for trade and foreign direct investment (FDI). Clear and consistent climate policies can mitigate the negative impact of uncertainty on trade openness and FDI.
Combined analysis of metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing for ankylosing spondylitis patients before and after secukinumab therapy
Authors: Sun Chao , Chao Yuyan , Xu Haojie , Yang Xinmeng , Pei Lijia , Xu Guixia , Wang Fei , Fan Xiaoyun , Tang Lin , Xie Changhao , Su Yin , Wang Xin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Alterations in gut microbiota have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. This study aims to investigate changes in gut microbiota and metabolites in individuals with AS before and after treatment with secukinumab, to identify the biological characteristics specific to AS patients and investigate the potential biomarkers, for optimizing therapeutic strategies more effectively.

Methods

Fecal microbiome data were collected from 30 AS patients before and after secukinumab therapy and compared with data from 40 healthy controls (HC). Additionally, we analyzed the metabolic profile of both groups from plasma.

Results

Findings indicated that the treatment‐induced changes in the composition of several crucial bacterial groups, including Megamonas, Prevotella_9, Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Bacteroides, and Agathobacter. Post‐treatment, these groups exhibited a distribution more akin to that of the healthy populations compared with their pretreatment status. We identified three gut microbial taxa, namely Prevotellaceae_bacterium_Marseille_P2831, Prevotella_buccae, and Elusimicrobiota, as potential biomarkers for diagnosing individuals at a higher risk of developing AS and assessing disease outcomes. Plasma metabolomics analysis revealed 479 distinct metabolites and highlighted three disrupted metabolic pathways. Integration of microbiome and metabolomics datasets demonstrated a significant degree of correlation, underscoring the impact of the microbiome on metabolic activity.

Conclusion

Secukinumab can restore the balance of the gut microbiome and metabolites in AS patients, rendering them more similar to those found in the healthy population. The analysis of microbiome and metabolomics data have unveiled some candidate biomarkers capable of evaluating treatment efficacy.
Efficacy and safety of intrathecal diamorphine: a systematic review and meta‐analysis with meta‐regression and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Grape Sina , El‐Boghdadly Kariem , Jaques Cecile , Albrecht Eric
Published: June 2024

Background

Intrathecal diamorphine is believed to provide postoperative analgesia but is associated with adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting. There is little evidence of synthesis regarding intrathecal diamorphine in the contemporary literature. We performed a systematic review, meta‐analysis with meta‐regression and trial sequential analysis to determine the magnitude of intrathecal diamorphine efficacy and safety.

Methods

We systematically searched the literature for trials comparing intrathecal diamorphine with a control group in patients undergoing all types of surgery. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were intravenous morphine consumption and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting at 24 h following surgery, respectively.

Results

Twelve trials were identified, which included data for 712 patients. Intrathecal doses of diamorphine ranged from 100 μg to 2500 μg. Intravenous morphine consumption at 24 h postoperatively was significantly reduced in the intrathecal diamorphine group, with a mean difference (95%CI) of ‐8 mg (‐11 to ‐6), I2 = 93%, p < 0.001. There was a significant difference between three intrathecal diamorphine dosing subgroups but without correlation: mean differences (95%CI) ‐1 mg (‐3–0), ‐26 mg (‐40 to ‐11) and ‐6 mg (‐15–4) in patients receiving doses of 0–200 μg, 201–400 μg and > 400 μg, respectively (p = 0.003). Intrathecal diamorphine increased postoperative nausea and vomiting with a risk ratio (95%CI) of 1.37 (1.19–1.58), I2 = 7%, p < 0.001. There were no differences in postoperative nausea and vomiting between the three intrathecal diamorphine dosing subgroups. There was no correlation observed with meta‐regression of the primary efficacy and safety outcomes. The quality of evidence for all outcomes was very low.

Conclusion

There is very low level of evidence that intrathecal diamorphine provides effective analgesia after surgery, while increasing postoperative nausea and vomiting with doses > 200 μg.
Laparoscopic Warshaw procedure in pediatric solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: Technical feasibility and oncological outcomes
Authors: Murata Yasuhiro , Tsuji Naoya , Noguchi Daisuke , Ito Takahiro , Hayasaki Aoi , Iizawa Yusuke , Fujii Takehiro , Tanemura Akihiro , Kuriyama Naohisa , Kishiwada Masashi , Mizuno Shugo
Published: June 2024

Achieving margin‐negative resection is crucial in treatment of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas, while preserving the spleen during distal pancreatectomy is highly desirable in pediatric cases. Laparoscopic Warshaw procedure (Lap‐WT) is invaluable when tumor involvement in splenic vessels complicates preservation. However, the feasibility of Lap‐WT in pediatric patients remains contentious. This study presents the clinical outcomes of three pediatric SPN cases who underwent Lap‐WT. The median age was 10 years, with a median tumor size of 50 mm. Lap‐WT demonstrated successful outcomes with a median operation time of 311 min and blood loss of 12 mL. No postoperative complications occurred, with a median length of hospital stay of 8 days. Long‐term follow‐up showed mild thrombocytopenia and increased spleen volume in two cases, perigastric varices in one, with no bleeding complications. No instances of tumor recurrence were observed. Lap‐WT emerges as a feasible approach for pediatric SPN, ensuring spleen preservation without compromising oncological outcomes.
Who feels happier right now?: The impact of temporal distance on children's judgements of emotional intensity
Authors: O'Brien Bronwyn , Ebeid Mohamed , Atance Cristina M.
Published: June 2024

Do children consider temporal distance in their reasoning about the world? Using a novel method that relied minimally on verbal ability, we asked N = 106 3‐ to 6‐year‐olds to judge which of two characters felt more ‘happy’/‘sad’ right now: one engaging in a pleasant/unpleasant activity tomorrow or another engaging in this same activity when they are a year older. That is, we examined whether children understood that the closer in time a future event, the more intense the currently felt emotion. Starting at age 4, children correctly judged which child was more ‘happy’/‘sad’ right now. However, 4‐ to 6‐year‐olds tended not to explain their judgements by referring to temporal distance, per se. Results suggest that children are sensitive to temporal distance early in development, but do not yet verbally express this understanding. Implications for theories about children's future thinking and future areas of research are discussed.
Delta opioid receptor expression correlates to skin ageing and melanin expression in Asian women
Authors: Bigliardi Paul L. , Lo Sydney , Bigliardi Elena , Dancik Yuri , Leblanc‐Noblesse Emmanuelle , Bigliardi‐Qi Mei
Published: June 2024

While the evidence for the implication of opioid receptors (OPr) in ageing is growing, there is, to our knowledge, no study focusing directly on changes in vivo cutaneous OPr expression with increasing age. We thus investigated OPr expression in 30 healthy female Asian volunteers in Southern China whose ages range from the early 20s to the early 60s. Excisional biopsies were taken from the sun‐exposed extensor area of the lower arm and the photo‐protected area of the upper inner arm. The thickness of the epidermal layers, melanin content, as well as expression of mu‐opioid receptors (MOPr) and delta‐opioid receptors (DOPr) were compared between different age ranges and photo‐exposure status. Significant increased epidermal hypertrophy on the extensor surface was observed. There was significant reduction of DOPr in the epidermis with increasing age, independent of photo‐ageing. The increase of melanin was significantly correlated with epidermal DOPr expression, not with MOPr expression. DOPr expression could thus serve as a marker for real biological ageing unaffected by chronic photo‐exposure. Additionally, DOPr expression was inversely correlated with the deposition of melanin. Based on these results, we hypothesise that regulation of DOPr expression could be used to improve aged skin, including hyperpigmentation.
The Geoeconomics of the Single Market for Financial Services
Authors: Quaglia Lucia , Verdun Amy
Published: June 2024

We discuss the geoeconomics of the Single Market in financial services in the European Union (EU). We examine three case studies that concern the EU and other major jurisdictions and that range from incipient geoeconomic use to outward weaponisation of the Single Market in finance. These cases are (1) the post‐2008 crisis transatlantic tug of war, whereby the EU leveraged its Single Market vis‐à‐vis the United States, seeking to set the rules for global finance; (2) the Brexit negotiations, when the EU acted as a bloc against the United Kingdom and successfully safeguarded the integrity of the Single Market; and (3) the fulsome war in Ukraine, during which the EU ‘weaponised’ its Single Market through the adoption of financial sanctions against Russia. We argue that a combination of external and internal factors accounts for this pattern: the evolution of the international economic and political system, in particular, the increasing challenges to the liberal international order, and intra‐EU developments, namely, the EU's ability to deploy its Single Market geoeconomically.
Designing the Food and Lifestyle Information Program (FLIP) culinary nutrition intervention for adults with mild‐to‐moderate intellectual disability
Authors: Asher Roberta C. , Shrewsbury Vanessa A. , Innes Beth , Fitzpatrick Arron , Simmonds Sarah , Collins Clare E.
Published: June 2024

Background

People with intellectual disability have diverse needs and experience higher rates of diet‐related chronic disease such as type 2 diabetes compared to people without disability. However, they are infrequently included in development and implementation of interventions to address diet‐related chronic disease. The present study describes the process to plan, develop and refine the Food and Lifestyle Information Program (FLIP) culinary nutrition intervention for adults with mild‐to‐moderate intellectual disability.

Methods

The project was initiated by a disability service provider and was guided by the Cook‐Ed™ model and inclusive research principles. Initially the disability service provider and academic research team members co‐designed pre‐program consultation and pilot studies, and draft program resources. Pre‐program consultation explored paid disability support worker (n = 10) perceptions of cooking and food skills, nutrition priorities and optimal program format, which guided further program drafting. Program resources and pilot study design were further developed and refined with co‐researchers with lived experience of intellectual disability who attended a pre‐pilot and then pilot study sessions as remunerated co‐facilitators.

Results

Key characteristics of the FLIP intervention arising from pre‐program consultation included providing cooking task instruction in small steps, enabling participant choice in program activities, promoting an inclusive and social atmosphere, and providing paper‐based resources.

Conclusions

FLIP intervention co‐design was enabled through ongoing input from the disability service provider and people with lived experience of intellectual disability. Evaluation of FLIP feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness to improve diet‐related health is underway.
MYB2 and MYB108 regulate lateral root development by interacting with LBD29 in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wang Junxia , Ding Tingting , Lin Xuefeng , Hu Haiying , Ding Zhaojun , Tian Huiyu
Published: June 2024

AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 7 (ARF7)‐mediated auxin signaling plays a key role in lateral root (LR) development by regulating downstream LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES DOMAIN (LBD) transcription factor genes, including LBD16, LBD18, and LBD29. LBD proteins are believed to regulate the transcription of downstream genes as homodimers or heterodimers. However, whether LBD29 forms dimers with other proteins to regulate LR development remains unknown. Here, we determined that the Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. MYB transcription factors MYB2 and MYB108 interact with LBD29 and regulate auxin‐induced LR development. Both MYB2 and MYB108 were induced by auxin in an ARF7‐dependent manner. Disruption of MYB2 by fusion with an SRDX domain severely affected auxin‐induced LR formation and the ability of LBD29 to induce LR development. By contrast, overexpression of MYB2 or MYB108 resulted in greater LR numbers, except in the lbd29 mutant background. These findings underscore the interdependence and importance of MYB2, MYB108, and LBD29 in regulating LR development. In addition, MYB2–LBD29 and MYB108–LBD29 complexes promoted the expression of CUTICLE DESTRUCTING FACTOR 1 (CDEF1), a member of the GDSL (Gly‐Asp‐Ser‐Leu) lipase/esterase family involved in LR development. In summary, this study identified MYB2–LBD29 and MYB108–LBD29 regulatory modules that act downstream of ARF7 and intricately control auxin‐mediated LR development.
Strength of relationship between body mass index and gross motor capacity in youth with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Pitetti K. , Bertapelli F. , Miller R. A. , Loovis M. , do Amaral‐Junior W. D. , de Barros‐Filho M. M. , Guerra‐Junior G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Adequate skill levels of gross motor capacity affect activities of daily living, participation in recreational activities and general physical activity levels of youths (7–21 years). Most studies of typically developing youths have reported significant negative relationships between gross motor capacity and body mass index. The latter findings are especially of concern for youths with intellectual disabilities in that it has been estimated that 61% of children and 66% of adolescents were classified as overweight/obese. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the strength of the relationship between body mass index and gross motor capacity among youths with mild to moderate intellectual disability (ID).

Methods

Components of the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT‐2) were used for designated aspects of gross motor capacity: six items for upper limb coordination (ULC); seven items for balance (BAL); six items for bilateral coordination (BLC); and one item for agility (A‐2). Participants consisted of 654 youths (438 men), ages 8–21 years with ID. Participants were divided into pre‐puberty and post‐puberty men (post ≥12 years) and women (post ≥10 years of age). Body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) was determined by height and weight measurements on the day of testing. A Kendall's tau correlation coefficient (τ) was used to determine the strength of the relationship between body mass index and gross motor capacity (BOT‐2 test scores).

Results

The τ values for both pre‐puberty and post‐puberty for all BAL, BLC, A‐2 tests and for three of the six ULC tests were negligible to very weak (τ = 0 to ±0.19). Higher τ values were seen for pre‐puberty youths in three of the ULC tests, but they fell within the weak range (τ < 0.24). When combining all pre‐puberty and post‐puberty participants, τ values were in the negligible to very weak range for all tests.

Conclusion

The strength of relationship between body mass index and gross motor capacity as measured by the BOT‐2 subtest item scores used in this study is very weak and suggests that they are not clinically relevant.
Constructing an Intent‐to‐Treat Score Index to Predict Survival Outcomes in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Montgomery Ashley , Lang Anna , Kunisetty Bhavana , Kamepalli Spoorthi , Lynn Jake , Alvarez Alexandra , Goss John , Galvan Nhu Thao Nguyen , Rana Abbas
Published: June 2024

Background

Waitlist and posttransplant outcomes have been widely reported for pediatric liver transplantation. Yet, analyzing these metrics individually fails to provide a holistic perspective for patients and their families. Intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis fills this gap by studying the associations between waitlist outcomes, organ availability, and posttransplant outcomes. Our study aimed to construct a predictive index utilizing ITT analysis for pediatric liver transplant recipients (Pedi‐ITT).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis utilizing de‐identified data provided by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) from March 1, 2002, to December 31, 2021. We analyzed data for 12 926 pediatric recipients (age <18). We conducted a univariate and multivariable logistic regression to find the significant predictive factors affecting ITT survival. A scoring index was constructed to stratify outcome risk on the basis of the significant factors identified by regression analysis.

Results

Multivariable analysis found the following factors to be significantly associated with death on the waitlist or after transplant: gender, diagnosis, UNOS region, ascites, diabetes mellitus, age at the time of listing, serum sodium at the time of listing, total bilirubin at the time of listing, serum creatinine at the time of listing, INR at the time of listing, history of ventilator use, and history of re‐transplantation. Using receiver operator characteristic analysis, the Pedi‐ITT index had a c‐statistic of 0.79 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–0.82). The c‐statistics of the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease/Pediatric for End‐Stage Liver Disease and pediatric version of the Survival Outcomes Following Liver Transplantation score indices were 0.74 (CI: 0.71–0.76) and 0.69 (CI: 0.66–0.72), respectively.

Conclusions

The Pedi‐ITT index provides an additional prognostic model with moderate predictive power to assess outcomes associated with pediatric liver transplantation. Further analysis should focus on increasing the predictive power of the index.
Exploring the synergy between copper electrolytes and molecularly engineered thiocyanate‐free cyclometalated ruthenium sensitizers for dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: M. M. Sruthi , Pradhan Sourava C. , George Andrew Simon , P. R. Nitha , Mishra Rakesh K. , John Jubi , Soman Suraj
Published: June 2024

Two novel cyclometalated ruthenium complexes, RC‐4 and RC‐5, featuring 1‐phenylisoquinoline and phenyl quinazoline as ancillary ligands, respectively, were synthesized to investigate their viability with the environmentally friendly copper (Cu) redox mediator, [Cu(bpye)2]2+/+. The modification of the ligand environment resulted in variations in the energetics, photophysical properties, and photovoltaic performance of RC‐4 and RC‐5 sensitizers. Despite RC‐5 sensitizer possessing a more positive ground state potential of 1.19 V versus the NHE, the RC‐4 sensitizer, with a lower HOMO level of 0.72 V versus NHE, exhibited superior photovoltaic performance along with the Cu electrolyte, attributed to its enhanced light harvesting ability, improved lifetime and reduced back electron transfer, contributing to higher Jsc, Voc, and PCE.
Variations of blood metabolites in single‐ and multiple‐bearing Ossimi ewes during the transition period
Authors: Hussein Hussein Awad , Mohammed Omer Amany M. , Karam Mohammad H.
Published: June 2024

Evaluation of the metabolic profile indices allows early detection and treatment of various metabolic disorders during the transition period in ewes. This study aimed to determine the variations in the blood metabolites around lambing in Ossimi ewes. The blood metabolites were investigated in ewes with single (n = 27) and multiple (n = 9) lambs at 3‐ and 1‐week pre‐lambing and 3‐week post‐lambing. The plasma concentrations of glucose were higher in single‐bearing ewes than those in multiple‐bearing ewes (p < .05), moreover, its lowest value was measured at 1‐week prepartum in both groups. Throughout the study period, the serum concentrations of non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were significantly increased in ewes with multiple lambs compared to ewes with single lambs (p < .05), and the highest value was found at 1‐week before parturition in both groups. In addition, the serum level of beta‐hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) was higher at 3‐week postpartum, and it was significantly increased in multiple‐bearing ewes than that in single‐bearing ones (p < .05) at 3‐week pre‐lambing. In both groups, the lowest values of total proteins were determined 1‐week before lambing, and its concentrations, at 3‐ and 1‐week prepartum, were higher in ewes with single lambs than those with multiple lambs (p < .05). In contrast, the serum concentrations of albumin were significantly lowered 1‐week postpartum (p < .05), and without significant differences between both groups (p > .05). The serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) were significantly increased at 1‐week after parturition in both groups (p < .05). Furthermore, the serum activities of AST were higher in multiple‐bearing ewes than those in single‐bearing ones at 3‐week pre‐lambing and 3‐week post‐lambing (p < .05). Variable positive and negative correlations were determined among the blood metabolites. In conclusion, physiological adaptations are associated with the fluctuation of the blood metabolites around lambing. The higher the number of foetuses the higher the metabolic variations in Ossimi ewes. Therefore, regular metabolic profiling for health monitoring may be necessary to avoid disease development during the transition period.
How informal elementary teacher leaders in mathematics are positioned in advice and information networks
Authors: Nguyen Phi , Webel Corey , Dames Brendan
Published: June 2024

In this article, we examine how elementary classroom teachers who are pursuing their Elementary Mathematics Specialist certification—who we refer to as Elementary Mathematics Specialists in Training (EMSTs)—are positioned in their advice and information networks for mathematics. Analyzing the advice networks of six elementary schools in one district, we found that EMSTs were sought out by more individuals than other teachers, and when sought out by others, provided advice at a greater frequency than formal leaders. EMSTs' advice‐interactions were often with grade‐level peers, with interactions in the same grade occurring at a greater frequency than those spanning grade levels. We also found that, in the school with a formal mathematics‐specific leader, advice interactions were primarily directed at the formal leader, including the advice‐seeking of the EMSTs at that school. Based on our findings, we conclude with implications for how teacher education programs and school administrators can support mathematics teacher leaders in enacting leadership from their classrooms.
Engaging elementary mathematics specialists: Strengthening the connections between university coursework and practice
Authors: Cannon Susan O. , Castanheira Brittney , Keese Jeffrey , Welji Shaffiq
Published: June 2024

Elementary teachers are underprepared to teach mathematics, and there is a lack of field‐based support for mathematics‐specific pedagogies in the elementary grades. To address this theory to practice gap, we developed an innovative model of fieldwork that draws on the expertise of in‐service teachers (elementary mathematics specialists [EMSs]) who had recently completed a K–5 mathematics endorsement to work in the role of university supervisors supporting beginning teachers (BTs) in initial fieldwork. We argue that this model has three key aspects that will support BTs bridging the theory to practice gap: (1) as in‐service teachers the EMSs are keenly connected to the context of schools; (2) recent experience in university coursework in mathematics while serving as in‐service teachers required the EMSs to navigate the theory to practice gap themselves; (3) one‐on‐one mentorship supports strong and trusting relationships. Drawing on data from a 3‐year study we found that EMSs brought intimate knowledge of the school context and knowledge of the mathematics‐specific pedagogies taught at the university. These connections to the field and the university allowed EMSs to support BTs in implementing research‐based practices in their mathematics lessons that went against the norms of their school settings.
Adaptive Dynamic Model-Based Path Following Controller Design for an Unmanned Surface Vessel
Authors: Zhu Man , Wen Yuanqiao , Tao Wei , Xiao Changshi , Sun Wuqiang
Published: June 2024

The effective design of a path-following controller for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) under uncertain influences induced by various factors such as environmental disturbances is a challenging task. In this study, we propose to fulfill this task through taking benefits from an online parameter identification technique, the discrete-time sliding mode control (DSMC) method, and the improved line of sight (LOS) algorithm. The Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm (PSO) was adopted to provide initial settings for the straightforward online identification method, i.e., the Forgetting Factor Recursive Least Square method (FFRLS). In order to handle the time-varying sideslip angle of a ship that exists in reality due to environmental disturbances, a multimodel course control scheme is proposed to improve the control performance. For this control scheme, a flexible selection mechanism in between a heading angle or a course angle tracking controller based on the DSMC method is designed. A solution to fixing the tracking deviation problem of the LOS guidance law is investigated for which the gradient descent method is introduced. A series of experiments are carried out at sea with a USV called Orca to verify and validate the proposed hybrid path following approach. The results showed that tracking errors mainly induced by environmental disturbances existed but the maximum magnitude among them was small enough and remained within the acceptable range, especially from the marine engineering point of view. These results, to a high degree, validated the robustness and precision of the proposed controller.
The changing landscape with respect to scientific research and education for second-level students and how they can overlap: the Kefir4All example
Authors: Walsh Liam H. , O' Mahony Cian , Cotter Paul D.
Published: June 2024

Have you ever deeply considered the intersections between research and education, particularly for second-level students? Traditionally, the convergence of these two realms is most often noted when considering the integration of research findings into educational practices or the involvement of, typically a small number, of students in research activities. While these practices have demonstrated efficacy, the fields of scientific research and education are evolving rapidly, necessitating a reevaluation of how we can optimize their convergence. In our discourse, we delve into these evolving trends, uncover the potential for greater integration, and, ultimately, enhance outcomes using the citizen science initiative Kefir4All as an illustrative example.
Stability of the Formation of an Image Using a Terajet with Respect to the Beam Shift
Authors: Paddubskaya A. G. , Novitsky A. V. , Minin O. V. , Minin I. V.
Published: June 2024

The shift of an image of a dielectric sphere asymmetrically irradiated by a terahertz Gaussian beam in terahertz imaging systems has been demonstrated experimentally. Numerical calculations using the operator scattering theory have shown the bending of the localization region of the electromagnetic field near the shadow surface of the dielectric sphere when it is shifted with respect to the waist center of the Gaussian beam, leading to the formation of the so-called “photonic hook” with the properties depending on the polarization and frequency of the incident radiation. The possibility of reaching a spatial resolution of 0.38λ in the studied range has been shown experimentally. The obtained results can be used to increase the resolution of commercial scanning terahertz systems.