bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of 99mTc‐3PRGD2 SPECT imaging on angiogenesis in animal models of lung cancer
Authors: Wu Yongkun , Wang Yufei , Yang Zheng , Teng Chuanhui , Guo Zhanlin
Published: September 2022

Background

The main purpose of the study was to evaluate the activity and selectivity of 99mTc‐3PRGD2 SPECT/CT and 18F‐FDG PET‐CT in order to detect the neovascularization of A549 cell subcutaneously transplanted tumors, and clarify the relationship among tumor vasculature, hypoxia and cell proliferation in the tumor microenvironment.

Methods

We established a subcutaneous tumor model, and used 99mTc‐3PRGD2 SPECT/CT and 18F‐FDG PET‐CT when the average tumor size reached 0.3–0.5 cm3. The mice were anesthetized and sacrificed and the tumors were completely removed for frozen section analysis. We subsequently evaluated the status of neovascularization, hypoxia, as well as cell proliferation via immunofluorescence staining (IF) by detecting CD31, pimonidazole and EdU, respectively.

Results

There was a significant positive correlation (r = 0.88, p < 0.05) between the microvascular density (41.20 ± 18.60) and tumor to nontumor ratio (T/M), which was based on the value of 99mTc‐3PRGD2 (4.20 ± 1.33); meanwhile, no significance (r = −0.16, p > 0.05) was found between the T/M and hypoxic area (116.71 ± 9.36). Neovascular proliferation was particularly vigorous in the parenchymal region of the tumor, while the cells around the cavity were generally hypoxic. 99mTC‐3PRGD2 SPECT/CT was more specific than 18F‐FDG PET‐CT in detecting malignant tumors.

Conclusion

Both 99mTC‐3PRGD2 and 18F‐FDG PET‐CT can be used for the detection of malignant tumors, but the specificity and accuracy of 99mTC‐3PRGD2 are better. The subcutaneous tumors showed a heterogeneous microenvironment as a result of neovascularization, a high proliferation rate of cancer cells as well as subsequent hypoxia, while most of the hypoxic areas appeared around the cavities of the vessels.
Deep reinforcement learning for conservation decisions
Authors: Lapeyrolerie Marcus , Chapman Melissa S. , Norman Kari E. A. , Boettiger Carl
Published: September 2022

Can machine learning help us make better decisions about a changing planet? In this paper, we illustrate and discuss the potential of a promising corner of machine learning known as deep reinforcement learning (RL) to help tackle the most challenging conservation decision problems. We provide a conceptual and technical introduction to deep RL as well as annotated code so that researchers can adopt, evaluate and extend these approaches.

RL explicitly focuses on designing an agent who interacts with an environment that is dynamic and uncertain. Deep RL is the subfield of RL that incorporates deep neural networks into the agent. We train deep RL agents to solve sequential decision‐making problems in setting fisheries quotas and managing ecological tipping points.

We show that a deep RL agent is able to learn a nearly optimal solution for the fisheries management problem. For the tipping point problem, we show that a deep RL agent can outperform a sensible rule‐of‐thumb strategy.

Our results demonstrate that deep RL has the potential to solve challenging decision problems in conservation. While this potential may be compelling, the challenges involved in successfully deploying RL‐based management to realistic scenarios are formidable—the required expertise and computational cost may place these applications beyond the reach of all but large, international technology firms. Ecologists must establish a better understanding of how these algorithms work and fail if we are to realize this potential and avoid the pitfalls such a transition would bring. We ultimately set forth a research framework based on well‐posed, public challenges so that ecologists and computer scientists can collaborate towards solving hard decision‐making problems in conservation.
Guided endodontics of calcified canals: The drilling path of rotary systems and intracanal dentin wear
Authors: Pires Cassiano Ricardo Ferreira , Souza‐Gabriel Aline Evangelista , Pelozo Laís Lima , Cruz‐Filho Antônio Miranda , Sousa‐Neto Manoel Damião , Silva Ricardo Gariba
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the drilling path (mm) and the dentin wear (mm3) of two instruments used during guided endodontic access. Twenty mandibular incisors with calcified canals were selected using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and fixed in articulated models. Preoperative CBCT scans were performed in combination with intraoral scanning, and the images were reconstructed in the Blue Sky Bio software for access planning and printing the guides. The access cavity was drilled with 1.0‐mm‐diameter bur (DSP) and 0.8‐mm‐diameter bur (Munce). Postoperative CBCT was performed, and the images obtained preoperative and postoperative were superimposed for the analyses. Data were analysed by a t‐test and linear regression (α = 0.05). No difference was found in the drilling path (p = 0.422). However, the Munce bur had higher dentin wear than the DSP bur (p = 0.011). A positive linear correlation (R2 = 0.859) was found between the factors.
The Burqa Ban, Islamophobia, and the Effects of Racial “Othering” in Australian Political Discourses
Authors: Askarzai Benafsha
Published: September 2022

Racism and “othering” of ethnicities is an enduring feature of Western politics. In Australia, Senator Pauline Hanson is well known for radical conservative political opinions, some of which are regarded by her critics as racist. One of her most notorious anti‐Muslim campaigns came in the form of her support for a burqa ban, with engagement in constant media commentary and a publicity stunt in 2017 in which she wore a burqa into the Federal Senate Chamber. This article analyses the public discourse surrounding Hanson's call for a burqa ban, focusing on Twitter as an online media forum for the sharing and dissemination of political beliefs. In analysing Twitter posts and responses linked to Hanson's Twitter handle referring to #burqaban and related terms between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2018, clear themes depicting orientalism, dualism, and Islamophobia emerge. I argue that the propagation of these political discourses perpetuates a perception of the burqa as epitomising fear of dangerous and harmful mischaracterisations of Australian Muslims. The normalisation and continued utilisation of orientalist, dualist, and Islamophobic themes in political and public discourse, linked with the political profile and positional authority of Pauline Hanson, legitimises calls for impositions on Muslims' religious freedoms, manifesting in debates such as the “burqa ban”.
Necrocapitalism in the Gig Economy: The Case of Platform Food Couriers in Australia
Authors: Orr Will , Henne Kathryn , Lee Ashlin , Harb Jenna Imad , Alphonso Franz Carneiro
Published: September 2022

Although recent deaths of multiple couriers on the road have raised awareness of the dangers of on‐demand food delivery, there remains limited government regulation of the industry in many jurisdictions. In this article, we argue that the labour conditions of platform couriers in Australia constitute a case of necrocapitalism (Banerjee), a contemporary form of accumulation through which organisational structures harness the power of debilitation and death for economic gain. After contextualising food delivery within the Australian gig economy, our analysis underscores how necropower operates through courier labour. We illustrate three dimensions: how this form of labour entails corporeal risks and harms; how these harms are heightened by platform infrastructures; and how strategic regulatory inaction maintains necropolitical orders. The article concludes with a reflection on how this contemporary example of necrocapitalism illuminates intersecting vectors of domination underpinning the logics and practices of platform governance.
The impact of diagnosed fetal anomaly, diagnostic severity and prognostic ambiguity on parental depression and traumatic stress: a prospective longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Oftedal Aurora , Bekkhus Mona , Haugen Guttorm Nils , Czajkowski Nikolai Olavi , Kaasen Anne
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The detection of a fetal anomaly during routine obstetric ultrasound is a potentially traumatic experience. The aim of this study is to examine longitudinally the impact of diagnosis of fetal anomaly on symptoms of depression and traumatic stress among mothers and fathers, and to examine how variations in psychological adjustment relate to diagnostic severity and prognostic ambiguity.

Material and methods

In this prospective observational study conducted at a tertiary perinatal referral center, 81 mothers and 69 fathers with ultrasound findings of fetal anomaly completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Impact of Events Scale (IES) at four time points in pregnancy (T1–T4) and 6 weeks after birth (T5). We compared this with depression and traumatic stress in a sample of non‐affected parents (n = 110 mothers, 98 fathers).

Results

Linear mixed effects models indicated that parents who received a diagnosis of fetal anomaly experienced higher levels of depression and traumatic stress over time, compared with non‐affected parents. Depression: mean difference mothers = 4.46 ± 0.47, fathers = 2.80 ± 0.42. Traumatic stress: mean difference mothers = 20.04 ± 2.13, fathers = 12.66 ± 1.74. Parents with a more severe diagnosis experienced elevated symptoms compared with parents with a less severe diagnosis. Among mothers, prognostic ambiguity and changes in the anticipated diagnosis after birth were also associated with increased distress, regardless of whether the change was for the better or worse.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of fetal anomaly increases risk of depression and traumatic stress in expectant mothers and fathers, both acutely and over time.
Characterization of left atrial assist device implantation: Early results of ex vivo anatomical assessment
Authors: Miyagi Chihiro , Fukamachi Kiyotaka , Miyamoto Takuma , Kuban Barry D. , Starling Randall C. , Karimov Jamshid H.
Published: September 2022

Background

The left atrial assist device (LAAD) is a novel pump that was developed specifically for the treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The device is surgically implanted in the mitral position. This study aimed to characterize the various device‐fitting configurations in the mitral annular position.

Methods

Rapidly prototyped LAAD models (n = 5) were fabricated with five different driveline configurations: (A) annulus level/intra‐cuff running; (B) supra‐cuff/below coronary sinus (CS); (C) infra‐cuff; (D) supra‐annulus/supra‐CS; (E) left ventricular free wall level. The 3D‐printed models were implanted in extracted fresh porcine hearts (80–100 kg, adult, healthy porcine) and the proximity of anatomical structures between the driveline and CS and coronary artery (CA) were measured.

Results

All five device configurations were evaluated for fitting. For the purpose of preventing blood clot formation around the driveline, the mitral annulus (MA) as a driveline pass‐way (configuration A) has been considered advantageous with the current device, in that the driveline exposure to blood has been avoided. The CS does not exist at exactly the same level as the MA, and there is less risk of injuring it than using the left atrial free wall. However, there is an inevitable risk of damaging the CA, so careful visual inspection before inserting the driveline is needed.

Conclusions

Several options of driveline exteriorization were demonstrated, and the safety of each configuration was evaluated. Using the MA as a pathway for the driveline exit is considered to be a reasonable and safe method.
A simple and reliable adult uncuffed endotracheal tube for combined forceps and cryoprobe biopsy during bronchoscopy
Authors: Tao Meimei , Wang Xinxia , Sun Qian , Li Hui , Zou Hang , Zhu Guangfa
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Combined forceps and cryoprobe biopsy during bronchoscopy are increasingly used. However, the adult standard cuffed endotracheal tube (SCETT) is can be limited by general anaesthesia and neuromuscular blockade. An adult uncuffed endotracheal tube (UCETT) might provide simple and safe airway support in stable patients during forceps and cryoprobe biopsy under spontaneous respiration.

Methods

A retrospective review of stable patients undergoing forceps and cryoprobe biopsy was performed. They were divided into a UCETT group (N = 33) and a SCETT group (N = 27). The primary technical outcome was the successful intubation and completion of bronchoscopy. The primary safety outcome was the incidence of desaturation events. Recovery time and side effects were also recorded.

Results

UCETTs and SCETTs were successfully inserted, and bronchoscopic procedures were completed in all patients. Only 3/33 (9.1%) patients in the UCETT group exhibited a drop of SPO2 < 90% during the bronchoscopy, compared to 2/27 (7.4%) patients in the SCETT group (P = 0.545). Patients recovered faster in the UCETT group than those in the SCETT group. Major bleeding, laryngospasm and major arrhythmias did not occur in either group. Incidences of sinus tachycardia, incidences of vomiting, minor and moderate bleeding and premature atrial contractions were not significantly different between the two groups. Nausea occurred in 5/33 (15.2%) patients in the UCETT group, compared to 11/27 (40.7%) in the SCETT group.

Conclusion

This study suggests that UCETT under spontaneous respiration can provide satisfactory airway support and a shorter recovery time in stable patients; thus, it may be an option to assist forceps and cryoprobe biopsy.
Case of recurrent superficial CD34‐positive fibroblastic tumor
Authors: Salah Haneen T. , D'Ardis Julieta A. , Baek Donghwa , Duran Juanita , Schwartz Mary R. , Ayala Alberto G. , Ro Jae Y.
Published: September 2022

Superficial CD34‐positive fibroblastic tumor (SCPFT) is a recently described rare superficial mesenchymal tumor. SCPFT has a distinctive morphologic appearance, marked by significant nuclear pleomorphism, low mitotic rate, and diffuse CD34 positivity. SCPFT is underdiagnosed because of its rarity and misdiagnosis as sarcoma, with very few reported cases of local recurrence or metastasis. Recognition and awareness of SCPFT are essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical management. We describe here the case of a 37‐year‐old male who presented with a right calf mass diagnosed as SCPFT with subsequent local recurrence of the tumor.
A rare case of primary cutaneous malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumor and review of the literature
Authors: Cornell Georgeanne , Jiang Betty , Ghaferi Jessical
Published: September 2022

A 77‐year‐old female presented with a 6‐month history of a 2‐cm pink exophytic tumor on the right anterior shin, which had grown rapidly and began to bleed over the last 4 weeks. A shave biopsy showed a dermal proliferation of epithelioid spindled cells, arranged in nests and trabeculae associated with thin‐walled capillary vessels. The cells showed pleomorphic nuclei with vacuolated nuclear chromatin and occasional prominent nucleoli. Mitotic figures (7/10 high‐power fields [HPFs]), including atypical forms, were present in the specimen. Immunohistochemical staining was negative for SOX10 and stained positive for MiTF. The histopathologic findings were consistent with a malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa). A malignant PEComa is a rare entity of mesenchymal‐derived cells with both melanocytic and myocytic differentiation. A PEComa is considered to be malignant by fulfilling two of the following criteria: size greater than 5 cm, vascular invasion, necrosis, mitotic figures greater than 1 per 50 HPF, infiltrative growth pattern, high nuclear grade, and hypercellularity. PEComas show immunohistochemical positivity to myocytic markers such as SMA, pan‐muscle actin, muscle myosin, calponin, and h‐caldesmon as well as melanocytic markers such as HMB‐45, Melan‐A, tyrosinase, and MiTF.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a virtual reality simulation for preclinical local anaesthesia dental education
Authors: McAlpin Elizabeth , Levine Marci , Brenner Corinne , Opazo Cristian , Bathini Savitha , Choi Seung Jae (Vince) , Louisville Meredith , Grandhi Uttam
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Traditional manikin training has limitations that virtual reality can address. This study investigated the effectiveness of two part‐task training simulation methods, a virtual reality (VR Sim) vs a plastic manikin (PM Sim), on learning outcomes for local anaesthesia skills for second‐year pre‐clinical dental students.

Methods

In an experimental study, 58 second‐year students were randomly assigned to one of two groups, VR Sim or PM Sim. Both groups completed the same pre‐post survey. The VR Sim group practiced with a VR simulation, completed a built‐in treatment test and a transfer test with a live person, and was evaluated by an expert teaching assistant (TA) with a rubric. The PM Sim group practiced with a plastic manikin and completed a treatment test on the same manikin evaluated by a TA, followed by the same transfer test with a live person and evaluated by a TA with a rubric.

Results

Covering knowledge and skills in the delivery of local anaesthesia, mean final transfer test scores were statistically significantly higher for the PM Sim compared to VR Sim, F(1, 57) = 9.719, p = .003 with effect size, η2p = 0.148. Scores on respective treatment tests were similar to final transfer test scores for each group suggesting differences were localised to the practice methods. Pre‐survey results indicated participants had low prior experience with VR technology.

Conclusion

Whilst outcomes showed higher results for plastic manikin tutor training over the VR training method, they are complementary. As students practice more with the technology and the VR simulation they may improve further. Likewise, as the technology for haptics with VR improves beyond hand controllers so may the experience and learning of this skill for students.
KRIT1‐mediated regulation of neutrophil adhesion and motility
Authors: Nobiletti Nicholas , Liu Jing , Glading Angela J.
Published: September 2022

Loss of Krev interaction‐trapped‐1 (KRIT1) expression leads to the development of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM), a disease in which abnormal blood vessel formation compromises the structure and function of the blood–brain barrier. The role of KRIT1 in regulating endothelial function is well‐established. However, several studies have suggested that KRIT1 could also play a role in regulating nonendothelial cell types and, in particular, immune cells. In this study, we generated a mouse model with neutrophil‐specific deletion of KRIT1 in order to investigate the effect of KRIT1 deficiency on neutrophil function. Neutrophils isolated from adult Ly6Gtm2621(cre)Arte Krit1flox/flox mice had a reduced ability to attach and spread on the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin and exhibited a subsequent increase in migration. However, adhesion to and migration on ICAM‐1 was unchanged. In addition, we used a monomeric, fluorescently‐labelled fragment of fibronectin to show that integrin activation is reduced in the absence of KRIT1 expression, though β1 integrin expression appears unchanged. Finally, neutrophil migration in response to lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammation in the lung was decreased, as shown by reduced cell number and myeloperoxidase activity in lavage samples from Krit1PMNKO mice. Altogether, we show that KRIT1 regulates neutrophil adhesion and migration, likely through regulation of integrin activation, which can lead to altered inflammatory responses in vivo.
The Right to Rule by Thumb: A Comment on Epistemology in “A Route Map for Successful Applications of Geographically‐Weighted Regression”
Authors: Wolf Levi John
Published: September 2022

Comber et al. provide an important contribution to the future of quantitative geography and Geographical Analysis. The contribution is chiefly in their development of a “GWR Route Map,” a diagram showing the sequence of analytical steps that “successful” specification searches in local modeling tend to follow. Geographically weighted techniques have been rapidly expanding, both in terms of complexity, users, and disciplinary reach. With geographically weighted methods now in so many more analysts' hands, any new rule of thumb will have a major imprint. But, by what right does the thumb rule the analysts? That is, what “counts” as valid knowledge about local models in general? In the following comment, I argue that we probably should use theory, not route maps to decide specifications. But, if we are pressed to build route maps, we sorely need better epistemological foundations for them. I discuss a few previous examples of strongly grounded route maps and offer a few paths to these better grounds as well as two ways to the exit.
A personal reflection of risking and protecting lives during the third wave of the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Manzoor Humera
Published: September 2022

In this paper, I engage with my personal experiences and reflections regarding my fear of exposure to coronavirus in a collective and physically demonstrative society. I reflect on my ongoing struggle of coping with social and cultural pressures, for example, the avoidance of ‘touch’ that demonstrates care and affection irrespective of whether someone is ill with the virus. Developed during the third wave of the pandemic, this paper reveals the ambivalence and the emotional challenges involved therein as I tried to (re)negotiate social interactions. It reflects the resistance and denial of the people that coronavirus even exists as they tried to justify their illness by linking it with other known diseases. Hence, the majority disapproved of social distancing to avoid stigmatization and being distanced from others. I believe that expressions of ‘care’ and ‘affection’ requires reconsideration in such circumstances as an act of care itself to protect lives.
VACCINE HESITANCY, PASSPORTS, AND THE DEMAND FOR VACCINATION
Authors: Gans Joshua S.
Published: September 2022

Vaccine hesitancy is modeled as an endogenous decision within a behavioral epidemiological model with endogenous agent activity. It is shown that policy interventions that directly target costs associated with vaccine adoption may counter vaccine hesitancy whereas those that manipulate the utility of unvaccinated agents will either lead to the same or lower rates of vaccine adoption. This latter effect arises with vaccine passports whose effects are mitigated in equilibrium by reductions in viral/disease prevalence that themselves reduce the demand for vaccination.
Masstige scale: An alternative to measure brand equity
Authors: Alagarsamy Subburaj , Mehrolia Sangeeta , Paul Justin
Published: September 2022

Masstige marketing is a strategic word for market penetration for premium but reachable products based on brand equity, trying to develop brand awareness, likability, affection and attachment. Hence, masstige scale may allow firms to measure brand equity to derive insights into the popularity of their brands. However, there is no empirical evidence available to test whether these scales are related measures of brand equity and, at the same time, independent measures, respectively. This study investigates whether the masstige scale and multidimensional consumer‐based brand equity scale measure the same constructs. A total of 493 participants evaluated four different athletic shoe brands. The multi‐trait, multimethod and confirmatory factor analyses suggested that the masstige scale may be a viable alternative to consumer‐based brand equity and masstige value. We discuss the implications and provide directions for future research derived from our findings.
The effects of B‐cell–activating factor on the population size, maturation and function of murine natural killer cells
Authors: Quah Pin Shie , Sutton Vivien , Whitlock Eden , Figgett William A , Andrews Daniel M , Fairfax Kirsten A , Mackay Fabienne
Published: September 2022

The role of B‐cell–activating factor (BAFF) in B‐lymphocyte biology has been comprehensively studied, but its contributions to innate immunity remain unclear. Natural killer (NK) cells form the first line of defense against viruses and tumors, and have been shown to be defective in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The link between BAFF and NK cells in the development and progression of SLE remains unstudied. By assessing NK cell numbers in wild‐type (WT), BAFF−/− (BAFF deficient), BAFF‐R−/− (BAFF receptor deficient), TACI−/− (transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor deficient), BCMA−/− (B‐cell maturation antigen deficient) and BAFF transgenic (Tg) mice, we observed that BAFF signaling through BAFF‐R was essential for sustaining NK cell numbers in the spleen. However, according to the cell surface expression of CD27 and CD11b on NK cells, we found that BAFF was dispensable for NK cell maturation. Ex vivo and in vivo models showed that NK cells from BAFF−/− and BAFF Tg mice produced interferon‐γ and killed tumor cells at a level similar to that in WT mice. Finally, we established that NK cells do not express receptors that interact with BAFF in the steady state or in the BAFF Tg mouse model of SLE. Our findings demonstrate that BAFF has an indirect effect on NK cell homeostasis and no effect on NK cell function.
T‐lymphocyte subtyping: an early warning and a potential prognostic indicator of active cytomegalovirus infection in patients with sepsis
Authors: Bai Guangxu , Cui Na , Wang Hao , Cheng Wei , Han Wen , Chen Jianwei , Guo Ye , Wang Fei
Published: September 2022

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is very common in patients suffering from sepsis and may cause poor prognosis. To explore the relationship between immune status of patients with sepsis and CMV infection, we assessed T lymphocyte subtyping and other commonly used clinical parameters in patients with sepsis upon admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and evaluated their potential impact on diagnosis and outcomes of active CMV infection. In our study, 82 of 599 patients with sepsis were diagnosed with active CMV infection. The 28‐day mortality was higher in active CMV–infected than nonactive CMV–infected patients (20.7% versus 9.9%); 51of 82 active CMV–infected patients with sepsis were assessed to have CMV‐DNA–negative conversion, while 31 were persistently positive for CMV DNA. Higher CD8+CD28+ T‐cell counts at presentation were associated with CMV‐DNA–negative conversion and lower 28‐day mortality. The CMV‐DNA–negative conversion and 28‐day mortality of active CMV–infected patients with sepsis could be predicted using cutoff values of 151 (74.5% sensitivity and 87.1% specificity) and 64.5 (52.9% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity) CD8+CD28+ T cells mL−1 at ICU admission, respectively. Higher CD8+CD28+ T‐cell count was significantly associated with active CMV infection, higher CMV‐DNA–negative conversion and lower 28‐day mortality, which may be a potential marker for early warning of active CMV infection and outcome prediction.
When does analyst reputation matter? Evidence from analysts’ reliance on management guidance
Authors: Chen Wei , Dai Lili , Tan Hun‐Tong
Published: September 2022

We investigate the joint effects of analyst reputation, uncertainty and guidance news valence on analysts’ reliance on management guidance. We find that, compared to less reputable analysts, reputable analysts rely less on guidance when they issue earnings forecasts. This analyst reputation effect is stronger when earnings and information uncertainty are higher or when the guidance contains good news. Further analysis suggests that both reputable and less reputable analysts sacrifice their forecast accuracy when they rely less on guidance; however, reputable analysts are compensated to a greater extent by the increased informativeness of their forecasts. Finally, we find that analysts’ future career advancement is enhanced when their reliance is low.
Which is better for durable goods producers, exclusive or open supply chain?
Authors: Kitamura Hiroshi , Matsushima Noriaki , Sato Misato
Published: September 2022

We explore the supply chain problem of a downstream durable goods monopolist, who chooses one of the following trading modes: an exclusive supply chain with an incumbent supplier or an open supply chain, allowing the monopolist to trade with a new efficient entrant in the future. The expected retail price reduction in the future dampens the profitability of the original firms. An efficient entrant's entry magnifies such a price reduction, causing a further reduction of original firms' joint profits. In equilibrium, the downstream monopolist chooses the exclusive supply chain to escape further price reductions, although it expects efficient entry.
Cowpea NAC1/NAC2 transcription factors improve growth and tolerance to drought and heat in transgenic cowpea through combined activation of photosynthetic and antioxidant mechanisms
Authors: Srivastava Richa , Kobayashi Yuriko , Koyama Hiroyuki , Sahoo Lingaraj
Published: September 2022

NAC (NAM/ATAF1/2/CUC2) transcription factors are central switches of growth and stress responses in plants. However, unpredictable interspecies conservation of function and regulatory targets makes the well‐studied NAC orthologs inapt for pulse engineering. The knowledge of suitable NAC candidates in hardy pulses like cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is still in infancy, hence warrants immediate biotechnological intervention. Here, we showed that overexpression of two native NAC genes (VuNAC1 and VuNAC2) promoted germinative, vegetative, and reproductive growth and conferred multiple abiotic stress tolerance in a commercial cowpea variety. The transgenic lines displayed increased leaf area, thicker stem, nodule‐rich denser root system, early flowering, higher pod production (∼3.2‐fold and ∼2.1‐fold), and greater seed weight (10.3% and 6.0%). In contrast, transient suppression of VuNAC1/2 caused severe growth retardation and flower inhibition. The overexpressor lines showed remarkable tolerance to major yield‐declining terminal stresses, such as drought, salinity, heat, and cold, and recovered growth and seed production by boosting photosynthetic activity, water use efficiency, membrane integrity, Na+/K+ homeostasis, and antioxidant activity. The comparative transcriptome study indicated consolidated activation of genes involved in chloroplast development, photosynthetic complexes, cell division and expansion, cell wall biogenesis, nutrient uptake and metabolism, stress response, abscisic acid, and auxin signaling. Unlike their orthologs, VuNAC1/2 direct synergistic transcriptional tuning of stress and developmental signaling to avoid unwanted trade‐offs. Their overexpression governs the favorable interplay of photosynthesis and reactive oxygen species regulation to improve stress recovery, nutritional sufficiency, biomass, and production. This unconventional balance of strong stress tolerance and agronomic quality is useful for translational crop research and molecular breeding of pulses.
The COVID‐19 pandemic and its impact on esthetic dermatology
Authors: Aryanian Zeinab , Ehsani Amirhooshang , Razavi Zahra , Hamzelou Shahin , Mohseni Afshar Zeinab , Hatami Parvaneh
Published: September 2022

In general, the world population interest has increased for maintaining youthfulness and having better appearance since this leads to a better mental wellbeing and self‐estimate. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has revolutionized every field of medicine. As every specialty has been affected by limitations caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), this branch of medicine has also needed certain precautions for safer practice in the COVID era. With the global vaccination program against COVID‐19, reports of some cutaneous reactions in patients have been undergone various esthetic procedures including filler or botox injection would be increasingly demonstrated. Although the end of pandemic was announced, the necessity of continuing COVID vaccination in future mandates gathering data regarding safety of vaccines. Herein, we presented a comprehensive review on various aspects of association between esthetic medicine or cosmetic dermatology and COVID‐19.
Legal heritage and urban slums
Authors: Fredriksson Per G. , Gupta Satyendra Kumar , Zhao Weihua , Wollscheid Jim R.
Published: September 2022

This paper studies the effect of legal origins (common law vs. civil law) on contemporary slum formation in developing countries. First, we provide a cross‐country correlation analysis. Second, we provide a regression discontinuity analysis using household data from Cameroon. The results suggest that a common law heritage is associated with a lower probability of slum conditions. The legal philosophies transplanted through colonization appear to be associated with the pattern of contemporary urban housing stocks in developing countries.
Institutional Violations, Costs and Attitudes
Authors: Zachník Vojtěch
Published: September 2022

The paper proposes an alternative approach to the ontology of social institutions by systematizing various normative institutional influences and identifying processes that distinguish between conforming and violating behaviour. The prevailing – cost‐based model – suggests that an agent's conformity to a specific institutional rule can be represented by a single measure – cost. The model is limited in its explanatory potential since it accounts for varieties of institutional behaviour in terms of single parametrical changes in the agents' utilities. The central argument shows that normative attitudes represent a distinctive normative structure capable of explaining crucial aspects of institutional behaviour. These attitudinal aspects provide the structure necessary for understanding institutional normativity and its violations.
Forging a coherent copyright jurisprudence in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Koo Justin
Published: September 2022

The development of intellectual property jurisprudence in Trinidad and Tobago has been slow despite the existence of a robust statutory framework. In the context of copyright law, there has been limited litigation, which has left most areas of copyright law undefined and uncertain. Recent case law on the right of reproduction and moral rights has revealed the problems with the law being untested and uncertain. This included the use of conflicting precedent in similar legal scenarios and a general lack of appreciation for the nuances of copyright law and resultantly a lack of desire to develop a coherent framework for copyright law. Trinidad and Tobago has the opportunity to forge a coherent copyright framework that will reflect its individual needs. However, to do this, policy‐driven decisions must be made that account for the specific intricacies of the copyright environment and the norms present in Trinidad and Tobago. As such, this article analyses the issues with the existing copyright framework in Trinidad and Tobago and provides guidance as to what can be done to assist its development. Furthermore, the article identifies a number of lessons that will be useful for Commonwealth countries with underdeveloped copyright frameworks.
Transnational capital and national legal regimes: Analysis of Internet domain name disputes in India
Authors: Wang Ryan Y. , Min Bumgi , Bai Yang , Grzeslo Jenna , Jayakar Krishna
Published: September 2022

This paper examines the outcomes of Internet domain name dispute arbitrations in India through a quantitative analysis of all domain name arbitrations (N = 1147) involving the Indian country code top‐level domain from 2006 to 2019. Specifically, we investigate whether the nationalities and corporate/individual identities of the complainants and respondents affect the outcome of the arbitrations. The most common type of dispute during this period is an international entity petitioning against another international entity (46%). In sum, the domain name arbitrations under INDRP are dominated by international and organizational complainants, but there is more variation among respondents' profiles in terms of nationality and identity. Our analysis suggests that the INDRP process, in the 14 years examined, tends to generate outcomes that favor corporations. Although the complainants almost always won, corporate respondents, compared to their individual counterparts, are more likely to retain the disputed domain names. Also, cases, where a respondent contested a complaint, had a higher probability of rulings in favor of respondents, compared to cases where the respondent filed no response.
Finite Element Analysis of Elbow Joint Stability by Different Flexion Angles of the Annular Ligament
Authors: Xu Guangming , Chen Wenzhao , Yang Zhengzhong , Yang Jiyong , Liang Ziyang , Li Wei
Published: September 2022

Objective

The injury of the annular ligament can change the stress distribution and affect the stability of the elbow joint, but its biomechanical mechanism is unclear. The present study investigated the biomechanical effects of different flexion angles of the annular ligament on elbow joint stability.

Methods

A cartilage and ligament model was constructed using SolidWorks software according to the magnetic resonance imaging results to simulate the annular ligament during normal, loosened, and ruptured conditions at different buckling angles (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120°). The fixed muscle strengths were 40 N (F1), 20 N (F2), 20 N (F3), 20 N (F4), and 20 N (F5) for the triceps, biceps, and brachial tendons and the base of the medial collateral ligament and lateral collateral ligament. The different elbow three‐dimensional (3D) finite element models were imported into ABAQUS software to calculate and analyze the load, contact area, contact stress, and stress of the medial collateral ligament of the olecranon cartilage.

Results

The results showed that the stress value of olecranon cartilage increased under different conditions (normal, loosened, and ruptured annular ligament) with elbow extension, and the maximum stress value of olecranon cartilage was 2.91 ± 0.24 MPa when the annular ligament was ruptured. The maximum contact area of olecranon cartilage was 254  mm2 with normal annular ligament when the elbow joint was flexed to 30°, while the maximum contact area of loosened and ruptured annular ligament was 283 and 312 mm2 at 60° of elbow flexion, and then decreased gradually. The maximum stress of the medial collateral ligament was 6.52 ± 0.23, 11.51 ± 0.78, and 18.74 ± 0.94 MPa under the different conditions, respectively.

Conclusion

When the annular ligament ruptures, it should be reconstructed as much as possible to avoid the elevation of stress on the surface of the medial collateral ligament of the elbow and the annular cartilage, which may cause clinical symptoms.
The AI‐IP: Minimizing the guesswork of personality scale item development through artificial intelligence
Authors: Hernandez Ivan , Nie Weiwen
Published: September 2022

We propose a framework for integrating various modern natural language processing (NLP) models to assist researchers with developing valid psychological scales. Transformer‐based deep neural networks offer state‐of‐the‐art performance on various natural language tasks. This project adapts the transformer model GPT‐2 to learn the structure of personality items, and generate the largest openly available pool of personality items, consisting of one million new items. We then use that artificial intelligence‐based item pool (AI‐IP) to provide a subset of potential scale items for measuring a desired construct. To better recommend construct‐related items, we train a paired neural network‐based classification BERT model to predict the observed correlation between personality items using only their text. We also demonstrate how zero‐shot models can help balance desired content domains within the scale. In combination with the AI‐IP, these models narrow the large item pool to items most correlated with a set of initial items. We demonstrate the ability of this multimodel framework to develop longer cohesive scales from a small set of construct‐relevant items. We found reliability, validity, and fit equivalent for AI‐assisted scales compared to scales developed and optimized by traditional methods. By leveraging neural networks’ ability to generate text relevant to a given topic and infer semantic similarity, this project demonstrates how to support creative and open‐ended elements of the scale development process to increase the likelihood of one's initial scale being valid, and minimize the need to modify and revalidate the scale.
Identification and distribution of fungal pathogens associated with seedling blight of rice in the southern United States
Authors: Gaire Shankar P. , Zhou Xin‐Gen , Zhou Yong , Shi Jun , Jo Young‐Ki
Published: September 2022

Surveys were conducted in the five southern rice‐producing states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Texas in the United States during the 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons to determine the distribution and pathogenicity of fungal pathogens associated with seedling blight in rice. A total of 349 pathogenic fungal isolates were collected and identified as belonging to four genera: Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp., Sclerotium rolfsii and Marasmius graminum based on morphological characteristics, molecular analysis and Koch's postulates. R. solani (252 out of 349 pathogenic isolates) was the most prevalent fungus isolated from diseased samples. Of the 252 pathogenic R. solani isolates, 245 were further classified as anastomosis group 11 (AG‐11) and 7 as AG‐4. Isolates of R. solani AG‐4 and M. graminum were the most aggressive, with the highest stand loss (63% to 100%) and median disease rating (DR; 5.0), followed by isolates of R. solani AG‐11 (stand loss = 4% to 100% and DR = 0.6 to 5.0), Fusarium spp. (stand loss = 26% to 48% and DR = 2.0 to 5.0) and S. rolfsii (stand loss = 33% to 48% and DR = 2.0 to 3.0) in causing seedling blight in rice. R. solani (62% to 83% of total pathogenic isolates) and Fusarium spp. (10% to 24% of total pathogenic isolates) were predominant in all the five states surveyed. S. rolfsii and M. graminum were present only in Louisiana and Texas. The results of this first systematic survey of rice seedling diseases in the southern United States will help develop effective fungicide seed treatment strategies for control of stand loss caused by seedling blight, one of the major factors limiting rice production.
Taking perspective of the stories we tell about transgender rights: The narrative policy framework
Authors: Flores Andrew , Boden Daniel , Haider‐Markel Donald , Lewis Daniel , Miller Patrick , Taylor Jami
Published: September 2022

Our project uses the narrative policy framework (NPF) to explore narrative effects on attitudes about transgender rights. The framework focuses on the stories that are told about public policy. As opposed to conceptualizing communications as informational, NPF suggests that getting lost in the story is primary for attitude change. We also incorporate a perspective taking exercise to examine its effects on individual attitudes. Using an experiment on 1784 American adults, we found that individuals who received the inclusive transgender policy narrative by either watching or reading the narrative held views more supportive of transgender rights, with the effect greater for watching than reading. Those who experienced greater narrative transportation, being more lost in the story, reported more supportive attitudes. We further find that those with traits that lead them to become more imaginatively involved in stories occasionally are more greatly affected by watching policy narratives than those who are less imaginatively involved. However, perspective taking did not influence attitudes and weakened the treatment effects of the narratives. Our findings suggest stories can affect policy attitudes and beliefs, which may be conceptually distinct from traditional framing‐based accounts and implies distinctive causal mechanisms that result in attitude change.
Effects of cryopreservation on the mitochondrial bioenergetics of bovine sperm
Authors: Algieri Cristina , Blanco‐Prieto Olga , Llavanera Marc , Yeste Marc , Spinaci Marcella , Mari Gaetano , Bucci Diego , Nesci Salvatore
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the bioenergetic map of mitochondria metabolism in cryopreserved bovine sperm. The detected oligomycin‐sensitive basal respiration supported ATP production; frozen–thawed spermatozoa were found to have a coupling efficiency higher than 0.80. Cell respiration, however, was not stimulated by the protonophoric action of FCCP, as its titration with 1, 2, 4 and 6 μM did not stimulate the uncoupling activity on oxidative phosphorylation as highlighted by unresponsive oxygen consumption. The unusual effect on the stimulation of maximal respiration was not related to fibronectin‐ or PDL‐coated plates used for cellular metabolism analysis. Conversely, irradiation of frozen–thawed bovine sperm with the red light improved mitochondrial parameters. In effect, the maximal respiration of red‐light‐stimulated sperm in PDL‐coated plates was higher than the non‐irradiated. In spite of this, red‐light irradiation had no impact on membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity evaluated by epifluorescence microscopy.
A genome‐wide phylogeny and the diversification of genus Liriomyza (Diptera: Agromyzidae) inferred from anchored phylogenomics
Authors: Xuan Jing‐Li , Scheffer Sonja J. , Lonsdale Owen , Cassel Brian K. , Lewis Matthew L. , Eiseman Charles S. , Liu Wan‐Xue , Wiegmann Brian M.
Published: September 2022

The genus Liriomyza Mik (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is a diverse and globally distributed group of acalyptrate flies. Phylogenetic relationships among Liriomyza species have remained incompletely investigated and have never been fully addressed using molecular data. Here, we reconstruct the phylogeny of the genus Liriomyza using various phylogenetic methods (maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and gene tree coalescence) on target‐capture‐based phylogenomic datasets (nucleotides and amino acids) obtained from anchored hybrid enrichment (AHE). We have recovered tree topologies that are nearly congruent across all data types and methods, and individual clade support is strong across all phylogenetic analyses. Moreover, defined morphological species groups and clades are well‐supported in our best estimates of the molecular phylogeny. Liriomyza violivora (Spencer) is a sister group to all remaining sampled Liriomyza species, and the well‐known polyphagous vegetable pests [L. huidobrensis (Blanchard), L. langei Frick, L. bryoniae. (Kaltenbach), L. trifolii (Burgess), L. sativae Blanchard, and L. brassicae (Riley)]. belong to multiple clades that are not particularly closely related on the trees. Often, closely related Liriomyza species feed on distantly related host plants. We reject the hypothesis that cophylogenetic processes between Liriomyza species and their host plants drive diversification in this genus. Instead, Liriomyza exhibits a widespread pattern of major host shifts across plant taxa. Our new phylogenetic estimate for Liriomyza species provides considerable new information on the evolution of host‐use patterns in this genus. In addition, it provides a framework for further study of the morphology, ecology, and diversification of these important flies.