bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible depth and source localization of seismic anisotropy beneath Shillong Plateau and Himalayan foredeep region: An implication towards deformation mechanisms
Authors: Mohanty Debasis D. , Biswal Satyapriya , Phukan Manoj Kumar , Ayodeji Eluyemi A.
Published: November 2021

Estimation of source localization and central depth of anisotropy beneath an active seismic region plays an important role in understanding the deformation mechanism and current configuration of tectonics. Though shear wave splitting measurements are capable of deciphering the mantle dynamics and deformation patterns, they are constrained from analysing the actual depth of anisotropy or heterogeneity, which may have large influences in interpreting the geodynamics of a particular region. The present study fills this gap of estimating the source localization and depth of seismic anisotropy beneath the Shillong Plateau and Himalayan foredeep region through a well‐established spatial coherency analysis of splitting parameters based upon the Fresnel zone concept. The model suggests a central depth of heterogeneity at around 100 km beneath the Shillong Plateau mass, coinciding with the lithosphere‐asthenosphere boundary and strengthens our implication that the asthenospheric drag at the base of the Indian lithosphere is responsible for absolute plate motion of India, is the major source of anisotropy and controls the deformation patterns of the Shillong mass. In a similar manner, the spatial coherency analysis predicts a central depth of anisotropy at around 150 km beneath the Himalayan foredeep region. The asthenospheric force corresponding to this particular depth is suggested as the major source of anisotropy for this region.
Neural correlates of the inverse base rate effect
Authors: Inkster Angus B. , Milton Fraser , Edmunds Charlotte E. R. , Benattayallah Abdelmalek , Wills Andy J.
Published: November 2021

The inverse base rate effect (IBRE) is a nonrational behavioral phenomenon in predictive learning. Canonically, participants learn that the AB stimulus compound leads to one outcome and that AC leads to another outcome, with AB being presented three times as often as AC. When subsequently presented with BC, the outcome associated with AC is preferentially selected, in opposition to the underlying base rates of the outcomes. The current leading explanation is based on error‐driven learning. A key component of this account is prediction error, a concept previously linked to a number of brain areas including the anterior cingulate, the striatum, and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The present work is the first fMRI study to directly examine the IBRE. Activations were noted in brain areas linked to prediction error, including the caudate body, the anterior cingulate, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Analyzing the difference in activations for singular key stimuli (B and C), as well as frequency matched controls, supports the predictions made by the error‐driven learning account.
Development of a model to demonstrate the impact of National Institute of Health and Care Excellence cost‐effectiveness assessment on health utility for targeted medicines
Authors: Gallacher Daniel , Stallard Nigel , Kimani Peter , Gökalp Elvan , Branke Juergen
Published: November 2021

Advances in medical technology have led to a better understanding of heterogeneity of diseases and patients, and to the development of targeted medicines. This development is beneficial to society but can come at an increased cost to pharmaceutical manufacturers due to the costs associated with developing and manufacturing a diagnostic test. For such medicines, the conventional pricing structure, where a therapy is approved if it is deemed cost‐effective, may not appropriately incentivize targeted drug development. We model the decision‐making processes for both the healthcare provider and the pharmaceutical manufacturer, capturing their main priorities, and populate it with information from a recent appraisal by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence. Healthcare providers prefer a stratified drug to be developed for a subgroup of the population when the drug is on average effective in the subgroup but with a detrimental effect in the complement. Whilst pharmaceutical manufacturers' preferences are similar, regions of disagreement exist. We show how preferences can be aligned by either penalizing the development of a non‐stratified drug or rewarding the development of a stratified drug. The cost and position of alignment depends on the true value of health to the healthcare provider, among other parameters.
Neoadjuvant immunotherapy prior to surgery for mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Systematic review
Authors: Amin Neha , Maroun Christopher A. , El Asmar Margueritta , Alkhatib Hosam H. , Guller Meytal , Herberg Matthew E. , Zhu Gangcai , Seiwert Tanguy Y. , Pardoll Drew , Eisele David W. , Fakhry Carole , Gourin Christine G. , Mandal Rajarsi
Published: November 2021

Given the recent successes of anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy, many clinical trials have sought to assess the safety and efficacy of this treatment modality in the neoadjuvant setting. This systematic review provides a comprehensive summary of findings from neoadjuvant head and neck cancer immunotherapy clinical trials with a focus on PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis blockade. Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov were systematically searched for all eligible neoadjuvant head and neck cancer immunotherapy clinical trials. Eight clinical trials met the inclusion criteria comprising a total of 260 patients. Study drugs included nivolumab, pembrolizumab, ipilimumab, durvalumab, and tremelimumab. The overall mean objective response rate (ORR) was 45.9 ± 5.7% with a 41.5 ± 5.6% single agent mean ORR. There were no deaths due to immune‐related toxicities. Neoadjuvant immunotherapy for mucosal head and neck squamous cell cancer has demonstrated favorable response rates with no unexpected immune‐related toxicities in phase I/II clinical trials.
Mettl3 promotes oxLDL‐mediated inflammation through activating STAT1 signaling
Authors: Li Zhenwei , Xu Qingqing , Huangfu Ning , Chen Xiaomin , Zhu Jianhua
Published: November 2021

Background

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the main cause of cerebrovascular diseases, and macrophages act important roles during the AS pathological process through regulating inflammation. Modification of the novel N(6)‐methyladenine (m6A) RNA is reported to be associated with AS, but its role in AS is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and mechanism of m6A modification in inflammation triggered by oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in macrophages during AS.

Methods

RAW264.7 macrophage cells were stimulated with 40 μg/ml ox‐LDL, Dot blot, Immunoprecipitation, western blot, Rip and chip experiments were used in our study.

Results

We found oxLDL stimulation significantly promoted m6A modification level of mRNA in macrophages and knockdown of Methyltransferase‐Like Protein 3 (Mettl3) inhibited oxLDL‐induced m6A modification and inflammatory response. Mettl3 promoted oxLDL‐induced inflammatory response in macrophages through regulating m6A modification of Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) mRNA, thereby affecting STAT1 expression and activation. Moreover, oxLDL stimulation enhanced the interaction between Mettl3 and STAT1 protein, promoting STAT1 transcriptional regulation of inflammatory factor expression in macrophages eventually.

Conclusions

These results indicate that Mettl3 promotes oxLDL‐triggered inflammation through interacting with STAT1 protein and mRNA in RAW264.7 macrophages, suggesting that Mettl3 may be as a potential target for the clinical treatment of AS.
Expression changes of serum LINC00941 and LINC00514 in HBV infection‐related liver diseases and their potential application values
Authors: Chen Juanjuan , Tang Dongling , Li Huan , Zhang Pingan
Published: November 2021

Background

Long non‐coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are considered as potential diagnostic markers for a variety of tumors. Here, we aimed to explore the changes of LINC00941 and LINC00514 expression in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection‐related liver disease and evaluate their application value in disease diagnosis.

Methods

Serum levels of LINC00941 and LINC00514 were detected by qRT‐PCR. Potential diagnostic values were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.

Results

Serum LINC00941 and LINC00514 levels were elevated in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), liver cirrhosis (LC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with controls. When distinguishing HCC from controls, serum LINC00941 and LINC00514 had diagnostic parameters of an AUC of 0.919 and 0.808, sensitivity of 85% and 90%, and specificity of 86.67% and 56.67%, which were higher than parameters for alpha fetal protein (AFP) (all p < 0.0001). When distinguishing HCC from LC, CHB, or LC from controls, the combined detection of LINC00941 or LINC00514 can significantly improve the accuracy of AFP test alone (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

LINC00941 and LINC00514 were increased in the serum of HBV infection‐associated liver diseases and might be independent markers for the detection of liver diseases.
Melatonin attenuates reactive astrogliosis and glial scar formation following cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury mediated by GSK‐3β and RIP1K
Authors: Yawoot Nuttapong , Sengking Jirakhamon , Wicha Piyawadee , Govitrapong Piyarat , Tocharus Chainarong , Tocharus Jiraporn
Published: November 2021

Even though astrocytes have been widely reported to support several brain functions, studies have emerged that they exert deleterious effects on the brain after ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury. The present study investigated the neuroprotective effects of melatonin on the processes of reactive astrogliosis and glial scar formation, as well as axonal regeneration after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham‐operated, I/R, I/R treated with melatonin, and I/R treated with edaravone. All drugs were administered via intraperitoneal injection at the onset of reperfusion and were continued until the rats were sacrificed on Day 7 or 14 after the surgery. Melatonin presented long‐term benefits on cerebral damage after I/R injury, as demonstrated by a decreased infarct volume, histopathological changes, and reduced neuronal cell death. We also found that melatonin attenuated reactive astrogliosis and glial scar formation and, consequently, enhanced axonal regeneration and promoted neurobehavioral recovery. Furthermore, glycogen synthase kinase‐3 beta (GSK‐3β) and receptor‐interacting serine/threonine‐protein 1 kinase (RIP1K), which had previously been revealed as proteins involved in astrocyte responses, were significantly reduced after melatonin administration. Taken together, melatonin effectively counteracted the deleterious effects due to astrocyte responses and improved axonal regeneration to promote functional recovery during the chronic phase of cerebral I/R injury by inhibiting GSK‐3β and RIP1K activities.
A national harmonised data collection network for neurodevelopmental disorders: A transdiagnostic assessment protocol for neurodevelopment, mental health, functioning and well‐being
Authors: Boulton Kelsie A. , Coghill David , Silove Natalie , Pellicano Elizabeth , Whitehouse Andrew J. O. , Bellgrove Mark A. , Rinehart Nicole J. , Lah Suncica , Redoblado‐Hodge Marie‐Antoinette , Badawi Nadia , Heussler Helen , Rogerson Nicole , Burns Joshua , Farrar Michelle A. , Nanan Ralph , Novak Iona , Goldwater Micah B. , Munro Natalie , Togher Leanne , Nassar Natasha , Quinn Phillipa , Middeldorp Christel M. , Guastella Adam J.
Published: November 2021

Background

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders share common phenotypes, support needs and comorbidities. Such overlap suggests the value of transdiagnostic assessment pathways that contribute to knowledge about research and clinical needs of these children and their families. Despite this, large transdiagnostic data collection networks for neurodevelopmental disorders are not well developed. This paper describes the development of a nationally supported transdiagnostic clinical and research assessment protocol across Australia. The vision is to establish a harmonised network for data collection and collaboration that promotes transdiagnostic clinical practice and research.

Methods

Clinicians, researchers and community groups across Australia were consulted using surveys and national summits to identify assessment instruments and unmet needs. A national research committee was formed and, using a consensus approach, selected assessment instruments according to pre‐determined criteria to form a harmonised transdiagnostic assessment protocol.

Results

Identified assessment instruments were clustered into domains of transdiagnostic assessment needs, which included child functioning/quality of life, child mental health, caregiver mental health, and family background information. From this, the research committee identified a core set of nine measures and an extended set of 14 measures that capture these domains with potential for further modifications as recommended by clinicians, researchers and community members.

Conclusion

The protocol proposed here was established through a strong partnership between clinicians, researchers and the community. It will enable (i) consensus driven transdiagnostic clinical assessments for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, and (ii) research studies that will inform large transdiagnostic datasets across neurodevelopmental disorders and that can be used to inform research and policy beyond narrow diagnostic groups. The long‐term vision is to use this framework to facilitate collaboration across clinics to enable large‐scale data collection and research. Ultimately, the transdiagnostic assessment data can be used to inform practice and improve the lives of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families.
Time to synchronize our clocks: Connecting developmental mechanisms and evolutionary consequences of heterochrony
Authors: Dobreva Mariya P. , Camacho Jasmin , Abzhanov Arkhat
Published: November 2021

Heterochrony, defined as a change in the timing of developmental events altering the course of evolution, was first recognized by Ernst Haeckel in 1866. Haeckel's original definition was meant to explain the observed parallels between ontogeny and phylogeny, but the interpretation of his work became a source of controversy over time. Heterochrony took its modern meaning following the now classical work in the 1970–80s by Steven J. Gould, Pere Alberch, and co‐workers. Predicted and described heterochronic scenarios emphasize the many ways in which developmental changes can influence evolution. However, while important examples of heterochrony detected with comparative morphological methods have multiplied, the more mechanistic understanding of this phenomenon lagged conspicuously behind. Considering the rapid progress in imaging and molecular tools available now for developmental biologists, this review aims to stress the need to take heterochrony research to the next level. It is time to synchronize the different levels of heterochrony research into a single analysis flow: from studies on organismal‐level morphology to cells to molecules and genes, using complementary techniques. To illustrate how to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of phyletic morphological diversification associated with heterochrony, we discuss several recent case studies at various phylogenetic scales that combine morphological, cellular, and molecular analyses. Such a synergistic approach offers to more fully integrate phylogenetic and ontogenetic dimensions of the fascinating evolutionary phenomenon of heterochrony.
Viral loads and profile of the patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta, Alpha, or R.1 variants in Tokyo
Authors: Tani‐Sassa Chihiro , Iwasaki Yumi , Ichimura Naoya , Nagano Katsutoshi , Takatsuki Yuna , Yuasa Sonoka , Takahashi Yuta , Nakajima Jun , Sonobe Kazunari , Nukui Yoko , Takeuchi Hiroaki , Tanimoto Kousuke , Tanaka Yukie , Kimura Akinori , Tohda Shuji
Published: November 2021

The rapid spread of the Delta variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) became a serious concern worldwide in summer 2021. We examined the copy number and variant types of all SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive patients who visited our hospital from February to August 2021 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Whole genome sequencing was performed for some samples. The R.1 variant (B.1.1.316) was responsible for most infections in March, replacing the previous variant (B.1.1.214); the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant caused most infections in April and May; and the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) was the most prevalent in July and August. There was no significant difference in the copy numbers among the previous variant cases (n = 29, median 3.0 × 104 copies/µl), R.1 variant cases (n = 28, 2.1 × 105 copies/µl), Alpha variant cases (n = 125, 4.1 × 105 copies/µl), and Delta variant cases (n = 106, 2.4 × 105 copies/µl). Patients with Delta variant infection were significantly younger than those infected with R.1 and the previous variants, possibly because many elderly individuals in Tokyo were vaccinated between May and August. There was no significant difference in mortality among the four groups. Our results suggest that the increased infectivity of Delta variant may be caused by factors other than the higher viral loads. Clarifying these factors is important to control the spread of Delta variant infection.
Silicon spraying alleviates calcium deficiency in tomato plants, but Ca‐EDTA is toxic
Authors: de Souza Alonso Tales Arthur , Ferreira Barreto Rafael , de Mello Prado Renato , Pereira de Souza Jonas , Falleiros Carvalho Rogério
Published: November 2021

Background: The occurrence of calcium (Ca)‐related disorders is common in tomato production and may be due to factors such as excess nitrogen (N) fertilization. Thus, Ca sprays are often applied as preventive measure to avoid the occurrence of blossom‐end rot. In addition, evidence indicates that Si can act beneficially on tomatoes and relieve Ca deficiency.

Aims: We aimed to verify the effects of Ca‐EDTA and Si application on tomatoes experiencing moderate Ca deficiency.

Methods: Tomato plants were grown in nutrient solutions with Ca sufficiency (+CaR) or Ca deficiency (–CaR) or under conditions of –CaR plus 25 mM Ca‐EDTA shoot sprays (–CaR +CaS), –CaR plus 7.1 mM Si shoot sprays (–CaR +SiS) or –CaR +CaSiS, with a total of nineteen sprays being supplied after anthesis, per foliar treatment.

Results: Plants grown under –CaR had smaller leaves and fruits, and new shoots were deformed. Plants that were sprayed with Ca‐EDTA and Ca‐EDTA plus Si in the same solution developed more blossoms than those grown without Ca; however, they showed chlorosis and necrosis on the edges of older leaves, i.e., Ca‐EDTA was toxic. However, the plants sprayed with Si alone were the most similar to control plants, showing only deformations in the younger leaves.

Conclusion: Ca‐EDTA at 25 mM sprayed twice a week after anthesis, totaling 19 sprays, caused toxicity in MT tomatoes. Sodium silicate (7.1 mM Si) sprayed twice a week after anthesis, totaling 19 sprays, made MT tomatoes less sensitive to Ca deficiency. Thus, we highlighted the potential of Si spraying to alleviate the slight Ca deficiency, which is relatively common in horticulture.
Will accelerated soil development be a driver of Arctic Greening in the late 21st century?#
Authors: Doetterl Sebastian , Alexander Jake , Fior Simone , Frossard Aline , Magnabosco Cara , van de Broek Marijn , Westergaard Kristine Bakke
Published: November 2021

Take‐Home Message

Climate warming is transforming the Arctic at an unprecedented rate with previously barren and sparsely vegetated landscapes undergoing “greening”. We postulate that the observed vegetation changes throughout the Arctic are not only tied to warming, but to changes in soil properties and their impacts on plants and soil microbial communities. A key to understanding extent and patterns of greening of formerly sparsely vegetated Arctic environments will be to unravel the interactions between the biosphere and the role of soil genesis.
Dipping fresh‐cut apples in citric acid before plasma‐integrated low‐pressure cooling improves Salmonella and polyphenol oxidase inactivation
Authors: Adam Abdullahi M , Jeganathan Brasathe , Vasanthan Thava , Roopesh M S
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Ready‐to‐eat fruit and vegetable products have gained tremendous popularity in recent years. The main challenges associated with these minimally processed products are their short shelf life and high food safety concerns. In this study, our goal was to develop an integrated process to both reduce the Salmonella population by >5 log CFU g−1) and to reduce polyphenol oxidase activity, followed by quickly cooling the product. We compared the effect of a sequential treatment of dipping in citric acid (CA) followed by cold plasma (CP) treatment on the inactivation of Salmonella Typhimurium, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, browning, total phenolic content and the moisture loss of cut apples during the plasma‐integrated low‐pressure cooling (PiLPC) process.

RESULTS

The greatest inactivation of Salmonella (5.68 log CFU g−1) and the highest PPO inactivation (78%) were observed after dipping cut apples in 5% CA, followed by 3 min of CP treatment. The color of cut apples remained relatively unchanged, with a fresh‐like appearance during 7 days of storage at 4 °C after this combined treatment. Although the low‐pressure cooling time was increased when samples were pre‐dipped in CA, related to those undipped, the moisture loss was reduced by more than 50% during the PiLPC process. No significant reduction in phenolic content was observed during the PiLPC when the samples were pre‐dipped in 5% CA.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate the potential of this integrated process for the inactivation of endogenous food enzymes and bacterial pathogens in fresh‐cut apples. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Management of colorectal cancer during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Recommendations from a statewide multidisciplinary cancer collaborative
Authors: Brajcich Brian C. , Benson Al B. , Gantt Gerald , Eng Oliver S. , Marsh Robert W. , Mulcahy Mary F. , Polite Blase N. , Shogan Benjamin D. , Yang Anthony D. , Merkow Ryan P.
Published: November 2021

COVID‐19 has resulted in significant disruptions in cancer care. The Illinois Cancer Collaborative (ILCC), a statewide multidisciplinary cancer collaborative, has developed expert recommendations for triage and management of colorectal cancer when disruptions occur in usual care. Such recommendations would be applicable to future outbreaks of COVID‐19 or other large‐scale disruptions in cancer care.
Intellectual capital as a longitudinal predictor of company performance in a developing economy
Authors: Dzenopoljac Vladimir , Kwiatek Piotr , Dzenopoljac Aleksandra , Bontis Nick
Published: November 2021

This study assesses whether intellectual capital (IC), measured using the Value‐Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC), can predict the financial and market performance of listed companies in a developing economy. Panel data from all 174 companies listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange were analyzed. Four company performance measures were investigated: return on assets, return on equity, market/book value, and market capitalization. Eight competitive longitudinal models were evaluated using SEM–PLS, as well as the 1‐year, 2‐year, and 3‐year lags. VAIC possesses significant predictive power on company performance, but only on return on assets and return on equity, with a stronger predictive power for the 2‐year lag. When analyzing the 3‐year lag, the model fit decreases significantly. This suggests that VAIC has no significant predictive power on analyzed market performance measures. Most extant literature on IC does not explicitly quantify its lagged effect and predictive power on company performance. Additionally, existing research focuses less on developing economies. The research was conducted in a developing economy with a relatively young and inefficient financial market. This rationalizes the findings in which IC cannot predict market performance. Additionally, the time span considered is only 5 years from the 21 years analyzed. Useful managerial insights on the evident lagged effect and predictive power of IC in a developing economy are provided. Quantifying the effect size adds value to the further understanding of IC's nature.
Identifying Barriers in Access to Care for Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Field Study in Dakar
Authors: Beaudoin Pier‐Luc , Munden Julia , Faye Mamadou , Ndiaye Issa C. , Sewitch Maida , Ayad Tareck , Poenaru Dan
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify barriers in access to care for head and neck cancer (H&NC) patients in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), specifically within Dakar, Senegal, using both quantitative and qualitative data.

Study Design

Descriptive observational study.

Methods

Patients with H&NC were selected from two independent university hospitals in Dakar, Senegal. A mixed‐methods descriptive study was performed using a specifically tailored questionnaire and a focused ethnographic qualitative approach to identify factors that delay patient presentation, referral, and treatment. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative using a deductive approach based on a systematic review of the literature.

Results

Thirty‐three patients with a mean age of 57.8 years were included. Presentation delay was 5.7 months, mainly attributed to cost of consultation (39%), waiting time at doctor's office (15%), and distance to healthcare facility (12%). Referral delay greater than 3 months was observed in 60% of participants, secondary to misdiagnosis and lack of appropriate referral. Treatment delay was associated with limited local treatment capacity and securing cost of treatment. Cost of transportation impacted all delays.

Conclusions

This work used an evidence‐based approach to identify barriers in access to care for H&NC patients in sub‐Saharan Africa. It suggests the feasibility and transferability of this methodology which combined a quantitative approach based on the literature with a qualitative analysis. Insight provided by this study will be used to guide development of implementation strategies for early detection of H&NC in LMICs.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1219–1223, 2022
First and second mover advantages and the degree of conflicting interests
Authors: Grepperud Sverre , Pedersen Pål Andreas
Published: November 2021

We introduce games consisting of two players where each player's payoff might be differently affected by changes in the decision variable of the rival. The games are classified into three categories: The high‐conflict category is characterized by both players having a first mover advantage, the medium‐conflict category by (at least) one player having a first mover advantage, and, the low‐conflict category by (at least) one player having a second mover advantage. The categories give rise to different equilibria in a prior game where the players are supposed to commit themselves to draw as early or as late as possible.
The effects of CEO narcissism on corporate social responsibility and irresponsibility
Authors: Hong Jin‐Ki , Lee Ji‐Hwan , Roh Taewoo
Published: November 2021

This study examines how chief executive officer (CEO) narcissism influences a firm's activities associated with corporate social responsibility or irresponsibility (CSR or CSIR, respectively). Employing upper echelons theory, the approach–avoidance motivation of narcissists, and the overinvestment hypothesis, we predict that CEO narcissism positively affects both CSR and CSIR. We also propose that these relationships are negatively moderated by corporate governance structure, captured by the ratio of outside directors and the ownership of institutional investors. Empirical results from a panel dataset of U.S. firms for the 2000–2012 period provide support for our hypotheses. Our finding establishes a better theoretical and practical understanding of how a CEO's psychological personality can change a firm's behavior with respect to its social responsibility.
A Homozygous Missense Variant in PPP1R1B/DARPP‐32 Is Associated With Generalized Complex Dystonia
Authors: Khan Amjad , Molitor Anne , Mayeur Sylvain , Zhang Gaoqun , Rinaldi Bruno , Lannes Béatrice , Lhermitte Benoît , Umair Muhammad , Arold Stefan T. , Friant Sylvie , Rastegar Sepand , Anheim Mathieu , Bahram Seiamak , Carapito Raphael
Published: November 2021

Background

The dystonias are a heterogeneous group of hyperkinetic disorders characterized by sustained or intermittent muscle contractions that cause abnormal movements and/or postures. Although more than 200 causal genes are known, many cases of primary dystonia have no clear genetic cause.

Objectives

To identify the causal gene in a consanguineous family with three siblings affected by a complex persistent generalized dystonia, generalized epilepsy, and mild intellectual disability.

Methods

We performed exome sequencing in the parents and two affected siblings and characterized the expression of the identified gene by immunohistochemistry in control human and zebrafish brains.

Results

We identified a novel missense variant (c.142G>A (NM_032192); p.Glu48Lys) in the protein phosphatase 1 regulatory inhibitor subunit 1B gene (PPP1R1B) that was homozygous in all three siblings and heterozygous in the parents. This gene is also known as dopamine and cAMP‐regulated neuronal phosphoprotein 32 (DARPP‐32) and has been involved in the pathophysiology of abnormal movements. The uncovered variant is absent in public databases and modifies the conserved glutamate 48 localized close to the serine 45 phosphorylation site. The PPP1R1B protein was shown to be expressed in cells and regions involved in movement control, including projection neurons of the caudate‐putamen, substantia nigra neuropil, and cerebellar Purkinje cells. The latter cells were also confirmed to be positive for PPP1R1B expression in the zebrafish brain.

Conclusions

We report the association of a PPP1R1B/DARPP‐32 variant with generalized dystonia in man. It might be relevant to include the sequencing of this new gene in the diagnosis of patients with otherwise unexplained movement disorders. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Multiplicity results for fractional magnetic problems involving exponential growth
Authors: de Souza Manassés , do Ó João Marcos , Mishra Pawan K.
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the existence and multiplicity of weak solutions for a class of nonlocal problems involving the fractional magnetic operator and nonlinearities which may have critical or subcritical growth in the sense of Trudinger–Moser inequality. By using variational methods based on minimax argument and assuming suitable conditions on the nonlinearity, we address essential geometric cases of the associated energy functional, such as the mountain pass geometry and the linking geometry. Some of the main results established in this work are new even when the magnetic potential is equal to zero, which corresponds to the usual fractional Laplacian operator.
Stability and bifurcation analysis of discrete predator–prey model with nonlinear prey harvesting and prey refuge
Authors: Shu Qing , Xie Jingli
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a discrete Leslie–Gower model with nonlinear prey harvesting and prey refuge is proposed. We prove the existence and stability of an interior equilibrium of the model. In addition, the existence of flip bifurcation and Neimark–Sacker bifurcation at the interior equilibrium is studied by applying central manifold theory and bifurcation theory. Using Pontryagin's maximum principle, we propose an optimal harvesting problem.
Accelerated derivative‐free method for nonlinear monotone equations with an application
Authors: Hassan Ibrahim Abdulkarim , Kumam Poom , Bala Abubakar Auwal , Adamu Abubakar
Published: November 2021

In optimization theory, to speed up the convergence of iterative procedures, many mathematicians often use the inertial extrapolation method. In this article, based on the three‐term derivative‐free method for solving monotone nonlinear equations with convex constraints [Calcolo, 2016;53(2):133‐145], we design an inertial algorithm for finding the solutions of nonlinear equation with monotone and Lipschitz continuous operator. The convergence analysis is established under some mild conditions. Furthermore, numerical experiments are implemented to illustrate the behavior of the new algorithm. The numerical results have shown the effectiveness and fast convergence of the proposed inertial algorithm over the existing algorithm. Moreover, as an application, we extend this method to solve the LASSO problem to decode a sparse signal in compressive sensing. Performance comparisons illustrate the effectiveness and competitiveness of the method.
Construct validity and internal consistency of the revised Mental Health Literacy Scale in South African and Zambian contexts
Authors: Korhonen Joonas , Axelin Anna , Katajisto Jouko , Lahti Mari ,   MEGA consortium/Research Team
Published: November 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the construct validity and internal consistency of the revised Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) in South Africa (SA) and Zambia.

Design

This cross‐sectional study was conducted between October 2018 and December 2019.

Methods

The study population comprised PHC workers (n = 454) in five districts in SA and Zambia. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to explore the construct validity, and Cronbach's alpha was applied to measure the internal consistency of the MHLS.

Results

Cronbach's alpha values for three attributes were below the appropriate level, but the value was strong (0.804) for the whole scale. The study found nine components explaining ~59% of the total variance of variables. All MHLS items loaded to main attributes based on the theory of MHL. The results stated that the revised version of the MHLS is a construct valid instrument with strong internal consistency.
Optimal control of electrical vehicle incorporated hybrid power system with second order fractional‐active disturbance rejection controller
Authors: Safiullah Sheikh , Rahman Asadur , Ahmad Lone Shameem
Published: November 2021

This article proposes a novel control methodology employing a fractional‐active‐disturbance‐rejection‐controller for the combined operation of load frequency control and automatic voltage regulator of a hybrid power system. A two area hybrid power system with diverse energy sources like solar‐thermal, conventional‐thermal and wind sources equipped with appropriate system nonlinearities is investigated. In order to ascertain the role of modern‐day electric‐vehicle (EV), the hybrid power system is incorporated with EVs in both the areas. To establish an effective frequency, voltage and tie line power control of the hybrid power system, a second order fractional‐active‐disturbance‐rejection‐controller with fractional‐extended state observer is modeled as secondary controller. Magnetotactic‐bacteria‐optimization (MBO) technique is applied to obtain optimal values of the controller gains and the hybrid system parameters. The robustness of the controller gains is tested under different system parameter changes from their nominal values. In addition, the effect of incorporating a power system stabilizer on the hybrid power system is evaluated. Further, the impact of integrating renewable sources and EVs in the hybrid power system is explored. Moreover, the stability of the hybrid power system is monitored with the inclusion of FACTS device. The developed controller operates encouragingly with reference to system stability, rapidity and accuracy in comparison to testified control strategies available in the literature. The robustness test under load‐perturbation, solar‐insolation, wind input variations also proves the efficiency of MBO optimized second order fractional‐active‐disturbance‐rejection‐controller gains.
Fabrication of hollow carbon spheres modified by molybdenum compounds towards toxicity reduction and flame retardancy of thermoplastic polyurethane
Authors: Feng Tingting , Zhang Yanli , Wang Yaxuan , Dong Huixin , Piao Junxiu , Wang Yaofei , Ren Jinyong , Chen Wenjiao , Liu Wei , Chen Xilei , Jiao Chuanmei
Published: November 2021

This article mainly studied novel hollow carbon microspheres modified with molybdenum compounds for flame retardancy and toxicity reduction in thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomer. The structure of hollow carbon spheres (HCS) was investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy‐energy‐dispersive spectrometer, respectively. The specific molybdenum compounds on the surface of HCS were further investigated by X‐ray diffraction. The flame retardancy and toxicity reduction of hollow carbon microsphere in TPU composites were studied by cone calorimeter, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and so forth. The result shows that HCS modified by molybdenum compounds (MOH) can reduce fire hazards and toxic release of TPU during combustion. For example, under the same load, the peak heat release rate of TPU/MOH composite decreased by 63.39%, that of TPU composite prepared by modified HCS with ammonium molybdate (TPU/AMH) decreased by 52.89%, and that of TPU composite prepared by introducing acidulated carbonized HCS (TPU/CAH) decreased by 40.73%, compared with that of pure TPU. The peak smoke production rate (pSPR), peak carbon monoxide production (pCOP), and peak carbon dioxide production (pCO2P) of TPU/MOH composite decreased by 52.34%, 72.4%, and 68.3%, respectively. Therefore, there is a novel strategy to incorporate modified HCS to TPU, facilitating its widely promising applications in TPU.
Abrasion‐resistance of UHMWPE reinforced by illite‐smectite interstratified clay and low dose radiation
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Dong Penggang , Cheng Guojun , Zhao Bo , Tang Zhongfeng
Published: November 2021

Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/illite‐smectite interstratified clay minerals (ISIC) composites were irradiated by γ‐ray in air and N2 at 75 kGy. The abrasion‐resistance of composites were studied via a ring‐on‐ring friction tester under dry friction conditions. Compared with virgin UHMWPE, the friction coefficient and wear rate of UHMWPE filled with 0.5 wt% ISIC powders and irradiated by γ‐ray in N2 could be further reduced by near 3.1% and 88.0%, respectively. The worn surfaces of the UHMWPE/ISIC composites irradiated in N2 were relatively smooth after dry friction. The composites exhibited relatively high wear resistance. ISIC powders can play the role of heterogeneous nucleation and induce the crystallization of UHMWPE, thereby improving the abrasion‐resistance. The linear molecular chain of UHMWPE was transformed into a three‐dimensional crosslinked structure after irradiation, which can effectively enhance the plastic deformation resistance and then improve the tribological properties. The results show that low filling amount of ISIC powders and γ‐ray irradiation in N2 are effective strategies to improve abrasion resistance of UHMWPE.
Engaging peers to promote well‐being and inclusion of newcomer students: A call for equity‐informed peer interventions
Authors: Crooks Claire V. , Kubishyn Nataliya , Noyes Amira , Kayssi Gina
Published: November 2021

Although newcomer youth demonstrate high levels of resiliency, many experience challenges in emotional, linguistic, academic, and social functioning. Over the past decade, some promising school‐based psychosocial interventions for newcomer youth have been developed. These interventions are necessary, but not sufficient to promote well‐being. Without attention to the larger context, focusing solely on the skills and adjustment of newcomer youth could potentially stigmatize students further. There is a need to engage non‐newcomer peers for two reasons. First, peer relationships and inclusion are important predictors of well‐being. Second, from an equity lens, there is a need to create environments that promote youth well‐being; at the very least, these environments must engage non‐newcomer youth in recognizing and combatting discrimination. This study outlines the need for peer‐focused programming to support newcomers and describes existing research on interventions developed to promote peer relationships (e.g., mentoring) or reduce discrimination (e.g., teacher‐led discrimination reduction approaches). We identify other intervention models that could inform how to add an equity lens to school mental health intervention, including how a gender‐sexuality alliance model could be adapted, and how equity considerations could be integrated into bystander approaches. We conclude with specific implications and recommendations for embedding equity into school mental health.
Pediatric asthma symptom control during lockdown for the COVID‐19 pandemic in Spring 2020: A prospective community‐based study in Cyprus and Greece
Authors: Kouis Panayiotis , Michaelidou Eleni , Kinni Paraskevi , Michanikou Antonis , Anagnostopoulou Pinelopi , Dimitriou Helen , Karanicolas Kostas , Matthaiou Andreas M. , Achilleos Souzana , Papatheodorou Stefania I. , Koutrakis Petros , Middleton Nicos , Galanakis Emmanouil , Yiallouros Panayiotis K.
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To prospectively quantify at the community level changes in asthma symptom control and other morbidity indices, among asthmatic schoolchildren in response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) lockdown measures.

Methods

In Spring 2019 and Spring 2020, we prospectively assessed monthly changes in pediatric asthma control test (c‐ACT), asthma medication usage, infections and unscheduled visits for asthma among schoolchildren with active asthma in Cyprus and Greece. We compared asthma symptom control and other morbidity indices before and during lockdown measures, while participants’ time spent at home was objectively assessed by wearable sensors.

Results

A total of 119 asthmatic children participated in the study during Spring 2020. Compared to a mean baseline (pre‐COVID‐19 lockdown) c‐ACT score of 22.70, adjusted mean increases of 2.58 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.91, 3.26,p < 0.001) and 3.57 (95% CI: 2.88, 4.27,p < 0.001) in the 2nd and 3rd monthly assessments were observed after implementation of lockdown measures. A mean increase in c‐ACT score of 0.32 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.47,p < 0.001) was noted per 10% increase in the time spent at home. Improvement was more profound in children with severe asthma, while significant reductions in infections, asthma medication usage and unscheduled visits for asthma were also observed. During Spring 2019, 39 children participated in the study in the absence of lockdown measures and no changes in c‐ACT or other indices of disease severity were observed.

Conclusions

Clinically meaningful improvements in asthma symptom control, among asthmatic schoolchildren were observed during the COVID‐19 lockdown measures in Spring 2020. Improvements were independently associated with time spent at home and were more profound in the children with severe asthma.
Chiral Dependence of Vortex Domain Wall Structure in a Stepped Magnetic Nanowire
Authors: Al Bahri Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Herein, vortex domain wall (VDW) with anticlockwise chirality (AVDW) and clockwise vortex domain wall (CVDW) with tail‐to‐tail magnetization configuration is studied using micromagnetic simulation. The VDW dynamics and the pinning potential are investigated in a new proposed device with a stepped area of length (l) and depth (d). Spin‐transfer torque is used to drive the domain wall (DW), which could act on the DW motion and stability required for facilitating the future design of the current‐induced DW motion devices. It is found that the VDW structural stability has a high dependence on the geometry of the stepped area (length l and depth d) and VDW chirality. The simulation results show that AVDW has higher structural stability than CVDW at the stepped area. In addition, the stepped nanowire geometries contribute to VDW trapping with a high potential barrier and high structural stability. Furthermore, the VDW speed increases with increasing d to reach 350 m s−1, and no apparent influence can be observed by changing . All these findings could help in developing future storage memory with low power consumption, high speed, high DW stability, and large storage density.
The effect of Ganges river basin irrigation on pre‐monsoon rainfall
Authors: Fletcher J. K. , Birch C. E. , Keane R. J. , Taylor C. M. , Folwell S. S.
Published: November 2021

The first experiment studying the effect of irrigation on pre‐monsoon rainfall in India using a high‐resolution convection‐permitting model has been carried out. This study includes both short (3‐day) experiments and month‐long free‐running simulations, enabling investigation of the effect of irrigation on mesoscale circulations and associated rainfall.

In the pre‐monsoon, it is found that irrigation increases rainfall in our simulations. Intriguingly, the rainfall increase found in the high‐resolution model mostly occurs on the mountains near the irrigation rather than over the irrigated region itself. This is because our applied irrigation is in low‐lying regions, and so it enhances the mountain‐valley flows leading to enhancement of diurnally driven orographic rainfall. Because Ganges basin irrigation occurs near mountains which already have some of the highest rainfall rates in the world, and which are subject to flash flooding and landslides, this has significant implications for hazards in mountainous regions during the pre‐monsoon and early monsoon period.
Turbulence and equatorial waves in moist and dry shallow‐water flow, excited through mesoscale stochastic forcing
Authors: Schröttle J. , Suhas D. L. , Harnik N. , Sukhatme J.
Published: November 2021

Turbulence and large‐scale waves in the tropical region are studied using the spherical shallow‐water equations. With mesoscale vorticity forcing, both moist and dry systems show an upscale transfer of kinetic energy which is dominated by rotational modes, scales as a power law with exponent, requires eddy–eddy interactions and ranges from the forcing scale to the respective equatorial deformation radius. At larger planetary scales, the divergent component of the energy increases and we see a footprint of tropical waves. The dry system shows a signature of the entire family of equatorial waves, while the moist simulations show only low‐frequency Rossby, Kelvin and mixed Rossby–gravity waves with an equivalent depth that matches rapid condensation estimates. Initially, runs with interactive moisture exhibit a weak inverse transfer of moisture variance as well exponential growth across a range of length‐scales. This results in an equilibrium moist energy spectrum obeying a 2 power law and the formation of moisture aggregates. Once formed, aggregates propagate westward in the Tropics with speeds of the order of a few metres per second. In contrast, forcing divergence does not excite an inverse transfer, and injected energy remains trapped at the forcing scale. Height (i.e., temperature or mass) forcing results in a peak at the forcing scale, but also generates large‐scale waves and projects onto rotational modes which undergo an inverse energy transfer. Similarly, forcing the moisture field by itself produces an inverse transfer of rotational energy and a well‐formed large‐scale equatorial wave spectrum. Notably, the height‐ and moisture‐forced inverse transfers are different in nature. Specifically, they require the presence of ambient planetary rotation. In all, these experiments demonstrate that the vortical and divergent wind are inextricably linked with the evolving moisture field, and that large‐scale equatorial waves co‐exist with synoptic‐scale moist turbulence.