bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality analysis of range hood impeller automated assembly based on generalized grey relational degree
Authors: Xianglin M.A. , Cai Haochen , Yang Qiming , Wang Gang , Mao Kun
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper establishes a quality model for automation assembly of range hood impeller based on generalized grey relational degree, it improves the debugging efficiency of the newly developed assembly workstation.

Design/methodology/approach

First, spot check the trial production impellers and obtain three indexes that reflect the assembly quality of the impellers. Then, analyze the parameters that affect the assembly quality of the impeller using grey relational analysis (GRA), establish a model for the assembly quality of the range hood impeller based on the generalized grey relational degree and identify the main parameters. After that, analyze the transmission structure of automation assembly workstation, identify the reasons that affect parameters and propose improvement plans. Finally, a trial production is conducted on the automation assembly workstation after adopting the improved plan to verify the quality model of impeller automation assembly.

Findings

The research shows that compared to manual assembly, the automation assembly quality of the impeller using GRA model has been improved, shortening the debugging cycle of the newly developed assembly workstation.

Practical implications

The newly developed automation equipment will have some problems in the trial production stage, which often rely on the experience of engineers for debugging. In this paper, the automation assembly quality model of range hood impeller based on GRA is established, which can not only ensure the quality of finished impeller but also shorten the debugging cycle of the equipment. In addition, GRA can be widely used in the commissioning of other automation equipment.

Originality/value

This study has developed a set of impeller automation assembly workstation. The debugging method in the trial production stage is beneficial to shorten the trial production time and improve the economic benefits.
Functional or financial remedies? The effectiveness of recovery strategies after a data breach
Authors: Guo Yuanyuan , Wang Chaoyou , Chen Xiaoting
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relative effectiveness of functional and financial remedies in influencing customers' negative coping responses in the event of a data breach. It also uncovers the different mediating roles played by customers' feelings of anger and fear in the process of data breach recovery. This study thus differs from the literature, which has primarily focused on the impact of financial compensation and apologies for service failures in face-to-face environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Two scenario-based experiments were conducted to empirically validate the model. The authors received 302 copies of the questionnaire, of which 269 were valid.

Findings

This study finds that functional remedies are more effective than financial remedies when sensitive information has been compromised, but there is no significant difference between the effectiveness of the two remedies when nonsensitive information has been compromised. In addition, functional remedies influence negative coping behaviors directly and indirectly; the indirect effect is achieved through the reduction of fear and anger. Contrary to the authors' expectation, financial remedies do not have a direct effect on negative coping behaviors; they can indirectly affect negative coping behaviors by reducing anger but do not affect negative coping behaviors by reducing fear.

Practical implications

This study provides key insights into how to manage customer reactions in the event of a data breach, suggesting the use of carefully designed recovery strategies. Companies must attend to customers' specific emotional responses to manage their negative coping behaviors.

Originality/value

This study extends the limited literature on data breach recovery actions by investigating the different effectiveness of functional and financial remedies in the event of a data breach. It also uncovers how functional and financial recovery strategies affect customers' negative coping behaviors by revealing the different mediating effects of fear and anger.
How does transformational leadership impact organizational unlearning: insights from persistence theories
Authors: Sharma Shubham , Lenka Usha
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Empirical attempts to recommend enabling mechanisms for organizational unlearning are sparse and have almost neglected the vital role of leadership in transforming organizations through unlearning. Based on the tenets of persistence theories like path-dependence and imprinting theory, this study examines the relationship between transformational leadership and unlearning with the mediating role of knowledge sharing, transparent internal communication and intrapreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

To analyze the hypothesized relationship between these constructs, data were collected from 452 faculty members working in Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs) in India. The data were analyzed using Process macro (Hayes, 2022).

Findings

The results show a significant effect of transformational leadership on organizational unlearning. This effect is mediated by transparent internal communication and intrapreneurship. However, knowledge sharing did not mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational unlearning.

Practical implications

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, Covid-19, the rise of generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and policy reforms have pushed higher educational institutions to transform by unlearning old practices and experimenting with new ones. This paper informs how educational institutions can initiate and sustain the unlearning process.

Originality/value

Persistence theories like path-dependence and imprinting theory suggest that organizations often stick with proven success formulas and find it challenging to adopt new practices. Moreover, path dependence theorists advocate the role of an external intervening mechanism to break away from rigid and inefficient routines (or paths). This paper argues that in addition to external events (e.g. crisis, etc.), transformational leaders combined with organizational processes also help in unlearning obsolete knowledge and routines.
Client influence in property valuation in Nigeria: a valuer-banker perspective and fuzzy DEMATEL study
Authors: Adilieme Chibuikem Michael , Abidoye Rotimi Boluwatife , Lee Chyi Lin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Given the significant role played by valuers and the evidence of a lack of independence in some property valuation industries, particularly in emerging markets, this study analyses the issue of client influence in property valuation by providing a valuer-client perspective and measuring the interrelationships between the clients' influence factors to identify causal factors of prominence, which can assist in developing solutions to address the clients' influence issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mixed-method approach. Firstly, interviews were conducted with ten property valuers and five financial institution staff in Nigeria, and the data were subject to thematic analysis using Nvivo 12 software. A matrix questionnaire survey was administered to the valuers, and the responses were analysed using the fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method.

Findings

The results indicate that institutional clients, loan-seeking customers, property valuers and the perception of corruption within the Nigerian environment fuelled the issue of clients' influence. Based on the measurement of the interrelationship between the 14 identified client influence factors, the type of company, perception the public has of the industry, size of the firm, relationship with the client, type of client and regulatory framework were the factors of prominence.

Practical implications

The findings of this study bear huge implications for Nigeria and other similar structured property markets facing the issue of clients' influence in property valuation. With the prominent factors bearing root in a mix of client, valuer and environmental factors such as the valuation structure, process and public perception, there is a need for solutions that level the playing field between institutional clients and valuers, reinforce transparency and establish excellent regulatory standards to address the issue of clients' influence.

Originality/value

This study is the first to measure the interrelationships between the clients' influence factors to identify the prominent causal factors. Accordingly, considering the multi-factors, the research is novel as it focusses on those factors that would likely lead to other factors, thereby providing opportunities to develop solutions that focus on those factors of prominence. Secondly, the study deviates from the narrative on clients' influence in property valuation, which pits it as solely a client or valuer factor, by showing how the interplay of the stakeholders' interests and the environment promotes the issue in a non-transparent property market.
A simulation of the macroeconomic effects of the Russia–Ukraine War on the Moroccan economy using the DSGE model
Authors: El Ouazzani Hicham , Ouakil Hicham , Moustabchir Abdelhamid
Published: December 2023

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has had significant global economic implications, disrupting trade flows and leading to a rise in oil prices that has affected world economies, including Morocco. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of these external shocks on the Moroccan economy using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, which enables detailed analysis of the interactions between various macroeconomic variables such as inflation, exchange rates and trade balances. The results of the study highlight the importance of taking risk premium shocks into account in economic policy‐making, as they can lead to higher inflation and a real depreciation of the Moroccan currency. The DSGE model provides a sound analytical framework for policy‐makers to assess and manage the impact of these external shocks on the Moroccan economy and thus promote economic stability and growth in the context of global economic uncertainty.
Emotionally based school non‐attendance: Development of a local authority, multi‐agency approach to supporting regular attendance
Authors: Corcoran Shannon , Kelly Catherine , Bond Caroline , Knox Louise
Published: December 2023

According to Government guidance in the UK, improving attendance is everyone's business. This article sets out the work of one local authority to develop their own multi‐agency approach to reduce rates of emotionally based school non‐attendance. The Research and Development in Organisations model provided a structure for the action research process, which consisted of cycles of action and reflection, including awareness raising, reflections on current practice, and the integration of stakeholder views, resulting in an organisational culture shift and the production of professional guidance materials. Content analysis suggests that the development of a localised approach required time, with multi‐agency collaboration to promote shared ownership of the products and processes across all stakeholders and to enhance uptake of positive changes to practice. Factors that facilitated the process included response to local need, multi‐agency collaboration and positive feedback, while diminished capacity and misconceptions about roles and responsibilities in monitoring and improving attendance were barriers to change. The findings provide further evidence for the role of multi‐agency working in the development of strategic support for school attendance difficulties to promote organisational change. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of these approaches to better inform future support at an organisational level.
Effect of milk variant, sugar and voltage gradient on physico‐chemical, rheology and sensory properties of basundi prepared by ohmic heating
Authors: Parmar Pankajkumar T. , Singh Ashish K.
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to optimise the process of basundi manufacture by ohmic heating (OH) instead of thermal processing. The factors considered were the type of milk (cow milk, buffalo milk and mixed milk), sucrose concentration (5, 7.5, and 10% [w/w] of milk) and voltage gradient (12.5, 13.33, 14.29, 15.38 and 16.66 V/cm). The parameters considered were physico‐chemical, rheological and sensory quality. The optimised product was prepared with standardised buffalo milk (BM), 5% (w/w of milk) added sucrose and processed at 13.33 V/cm. It significantly (P < 0.05) affected the physico‐chemical properties of the optimised product and basundi showed pseudoplastic behaviour.
Phosphorylated vimentin at Ser72 is associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition in lupus nephritis
Authors: Wang Daji , Zhang Fan , He Jing , Li Chuyi , Liu Xingjiao , Zhang Meng , Huang Haihui , Xiong Zuying , Duan Hongxia , Huang Xiaoyan , Wang Meiying
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To measure the expression of vimentin and its phosphorylated forms in lupus nephritis (LN) and explore their potential role in LN development.

Methods

Lupus renal biopsies from LN patients and normal renal biopsies from kidney transplant donors were collected. The expression of vimentin and its phosphorylated forms (p‐vimentin (Ser39, Ser56, Ser72, Ser83, and Tyr117)) were measured by Western blots and immunohistochemistry. To construct stable cell line that overexpress vimentin and its phosphorylated forms, an immortalized proximal tubule epithelial cell line (HK‐2 cells) was utilized. The roles of vimentin and its phosphorylated forms on the migration of HK‐2 cells were examined by transwell migration assay and wound healing analysis.

Results

We first observed a significant upregulation of vimentin protein in TGFβ1‐induced HK‐2 cells. This finding was further confirmed in renal tissues obtained from LN patients and animal model. Interestingly, among the five phosphorylated forms of vimentin, only vimentin phosphorylated at Ser72 was upregulated in LN. Through the establishment of stable vimentin and its phosphorylated forms overexpression in HK‐2 cells, we found that the overexpression of vimentin and its phosphorylated forms at Ser72 significantly enhances the cell migration.

Conclusions

Vimentin phosphorylated on Ser72 is important for renal epithelial cell migration, which would enhance the progression of vimentin‐induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition during LN development.
Clinical and sociodemographic features in offspring aged 0–3 years of mothers with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. A descriptive cross‐sectional study
Authors: Edvardsen Emilie , Moszkowicz Mala , Olsen Anne Lise , Heinrichsen Michella , Pagsberg Anne Katrine
Published: December 2023

Objective

Offspring of parents with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) have an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disturbances. However, the ability to provide very early interventions to support these children and their families requires profound knowledge regarding characteristic features of both the parents and their offspring. Information on this subject is currently sparse. The aim of the present study is to investigate clinical and sociodemographic variables in offspring in the age range of 0–3 years of mothers diagnosed with SSD.

Methods

The study is descriptive with a cross‐sectional design and includes parent‐child dyads consisting of mothers diagnosed with SSD (ICD‐10: F20‐29) and their offspring aged 0‐3 years, who were referred for examination and intervention at the infant and toddler psychiatric units, at the Mental Health Services, Capital Region, Copenhagen University Hospitals in two locations (Bispebjerg and Glostrup). Clinical and sociodemographic data were extracted from the Copenhagen “Infant Psychiatric Database” and processed by descriptive analysis.

Results

Out of 95 parent–child dyads considered for the study population, 85 were included. 27.8% of the mothers had psychiatric comorbidities, and 18.9% of the fathers had a psychiatric diagnosis at the time of investigation. Of the children, 89.7% were born full term (≥37th week) and most of them had a birth weight of ≥2500 g (81.8%). Of the mothers, 50% had experienced pregnancy complications of varying severity. Birth complications were seen in 62.9% of the dyads. Psychopathology was identified in 50% of the children at age 0–3 years, and 62.2% of the parent–child dyads appeared to have an affected relationship.

Conclusion

Results show widespread psychopathology in offspring aged 0–3 years of mothers with SSD. Moreover, several psychosocial stressors, clinical parental features, and relational disturbances are identified. These results contribute to a better understanding and identification of early risk markers of long‐term psychopathology in this infant patient group, and hence serve as potential targets for early interventions.
Anthropology's good beyond the discipline
Authors: Deeb Lara , Winegar Jessica
Published: December 2023

In July 2023, the American Anthropological Association's (AAA) members voted to boycott Israeli academic institutions until they end their complicity in violating Palestinian rights as stipulated in international law. The AAA's adoption of this resolution shows the potential good of anthropology, both within and beyond the academy. Anthropology's disciplinary scholarly processes, methods, and theoretical frameworks paved the way for this resolution, providing one answer to the question, What good is anthropology?
An arteriovenous mock circulatory loop and accompanying bond graph model for in vitro study of peripheral intravascular bioartificial organs
Authors: Moyer Jarrett C. , Chivukula Venkat Keshav , Taheri‐Tehrani Parsa , Sandhu Sukhveer , Blaha Charles , Fissell William H. , Roy Shuvo
Published: December 2023

Background

Silicon nanopore membrane‐based implantable bioartificial organs are dependent on arteriovenous implantation of a mechanically robust and biocompatible hemofilter. The hemofilter acts as a low‐resistance, high‐flow network, with blood flow physiology similar to arteriovenous shunts commonly created for hemodialysis access. A mock circulatory loop (MCL) that mimics shunt physiology is an essential tool for refinement and durability testing of arteriovenous implantable bioartificial organs and silicon blood‐interfacing membranes. We sought to develop a compact and cost‐effective MCL to replicate flow conditions through an arteriovenous shunt and used data from the MCL and swine to inform a bond graph mathematical model of the physical setup.

Methods

Flow physiology through bioartificial organ prototypes was obtained in the MCL and during extracorporeal attachment to swine for biologic comparison. The MCL was tested for stability overtime by measuring pressurewave variability over a 48‐h period. Data obtained in vitro and extracorporeally informed creation of a bond graph model of the MCL.

Results

The arteriovenous MCL was a cost‐effective, portable system that reproduced flow rates and pressures consistent with a pulsatile arteriovenous shunt as measured in swine. MCL performance was stable over prolonged use, providing a cost‐effective simulator for enhanced testing of peripherally implanted bioartificial organ prototypes. The corresponding bond graph model recapitulates MCL and animal physiology, offering a tool for further refinement of the MCL system.
Meaning in life following service among post‐9/11 military veterans: A latent growth mixture model analysis
Authors: Kumar Shaina A. , Borowski Shelby , Vogt Dawne
Published: December 2023

Meaning in life refers to the “sense made of, and significance felt regarding, the nature of one's being and existence.” Meaningful living promotes well‐being, resilience, and personal growth. Yet, much remains unknown about how meaning changes over time and determinants of meaning, particularly during major life transitions. We identified distinct trajectories of meaning using latent growth mixture models and examined prospective predictors of class membership in a military veteran cohort assessed at multiple time points throughout the first 3 years after leaving service. Three trajectories were identified: consistently high meaning (89.5%; n = 7025), diminishing meaning (6.1%; n = 479), and strengthening meaning (4.4%; n = 348). Veterans with greater posttraumatic stress symptoms, depression symptoms, and moral injury experienced increased odds of a less adaptive trajectory (i.e. diminishing and/or strengthening vs. consistently high meaning), whereas veterans who reported greater psychological resilience, community relationship satisfaction, and intimate relationship satisfaction experienced lower odds of a less adaptive trajectory. Several gender differences were also observed. Results provide insight into veteran subgroups that are more likely to experience lower meaning after leaving military service and thus may benefit from additional support to reduce their risk for poor longer‐term health and well‐being outcomes.
Exploring the impact of ethnicity on drug pharmacokinetics using PBPK models: A case study with lansoprazole in Japanese subjects
Authors: Ezuruike Udoamaka , Curry Liam , Hatley Oliver , Gardner Iain
Published: December 2023

Aims

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the use of PBPK modelling to explore the impact of ethnic differences on drug PK.

Methods

A PBPK model developed for lansoprazole was used to predict the clinical PK of lansoprazole in Japanese subjects by incorporating the physiological parameters of a Japanese population into the model. Further verification of the developed Japanese population with clinical studies involving eight other CYP substrates—omeprazole, ticlopidine, alprazolam, midazolam, nifedipine, cinacalcet, paroxetine and dextromethorphan—was also carried out.

Results

The PK of lansoprazole in both Caucasian and Japanese subjects was well predicted by the model as the observed data were within the 5th and 95th percentiles across all the clinical studies. In age‐ and sex‐matched simulations in both the Caucasian and Japanese populations, the predicted PK (mean ± SD) of a single oral dose of 30‐mg lansoprazole was higher in the Japanese population in all cases, with more than twofold higher AUC of 5.98 ± 6.43 mg/L.h (95% CI: 4.72, 7.24) vs. 2.46 ± 2.45 mg/L.h (95% CI: 1.98, 2.94) in one scenario. In addition, in two out of the nine clinical DDIs of lansoprazole and the additional CYP substrates simulated using the Japanese population, the predicted DDI in Japanese was more than 1.25‐fold that in Caucasians, indicating an increased DDI liability.

Conclusions

By accounting for various physiological parameters that characterize a population in a PBPK model, the impact of the different identified interethnic differences on the drug's PK can be explored, which can inform the adoption of drugs from one region to another.
Mode of birth and long‐term maternal mental health: A follow‐up study in the Danish National Birth Cohort
Authors: Hjorth Sarah , Skov Stina Kruse , Kirkegaard Helene , Olsen Jørn , Nohr Ellen Aagaard
Published: December 2023

Background

Cesarean birth has been associated with increased risks of short‐term mental health problems. Little is known about whether these associations persist in the long term. This study aimed to estimate the associations between mode of birth and maternal mental health in midlife while considering mental health before and during pregnancy.

Methods

Cohort study among mothers in the Danish National Birth Cohort. Birth mode for each woman's entire reproductive history was obtained from Danish national registries. Symptoms of depression and stress in midlife were self‐reported using validated scales. Log binomial regression was used to calculate risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between birth mode and depressive symptoms. Linear regression was used to calculate mean difference in stress score by birth mode.

Results

Among 42,872 women, 15.5% reported depressive symptoms at follow‐up, where they were, on average, 43.9 years and 11.2 years after their last birth. Compared with women who only ever had spontaneous vaginal births, women who only had cesarean births, or had both cesarean and vaginal births with the last birth by cesarean, reported slightly more symptoms of depression (RR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01;1.20) and stress (mean difference 0.68 on a 100‐point scale, 95% CI 0.10;1.26).

Conclusion

Whether due to the birth experience or underlying factors, depression and stress in midlife were more frequent in women with only cesarean births or whose last birth was by cesarean compared with women with vaginal births.
Reduced Ca2+ mobilization in neonatal human platelets involves SARAF and pannexin‐1
Authors: Rosado Juan A.
Published: December 2023

Platelets from neonates have been shown to exhibit a reduced response to physiological agonists, such as thrombin; however, the mechanism behind these findings is poorly understood. Berna‐Erro et al. now provide differences in SARAF and pannexin‐1 expression and function between neonatal and maternal platelets that might shed some light on the underlying mechanism.

Commentary on: Berna‐Erro. SARAF overexpression impairs thrombin‐induced Ca2+ homeostasis in neonatal platelets. Br J Haematol 2024;204:988‐1004.
Front Cover
Authors: Perakakis Nikolaos , Bornstein Stefan R. , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Linkermann Andreas , Demir Münevver , Anker Stefan D. , Filippatos Gerasimos , Pitt Bertram , Rossing Peter , Ruilope Luis M. , Kolkhof Peter , Lawatscheck Robert , Scott Charlie , Bakris George L. ,   FIDELIO‐DKD and FIGARO‐DKD investigators
Published: December 2023

The cover image is based on the Original Article Efficacy of finerenone in patients with type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease and altered markers of liver steatosis and fibrosis: A FIDELITY subgroup analysis by Nikolaos Perakakis MD et al., https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.15305.

image
Incremental prognostic value of speckle tracking echocardiography and early follow‐up echo assessment in predicting left ventricular recovery after reperfusion for ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)
Authors: Yehia Ahmed , Zaki Amr , Sadaka Mohamed , Azeem Ahmed Mokhtar Abd El
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Up to 50% of patients do not achieve significant left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) recovery after primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI) for STEMI. We aimed to identify the echocardiographic predictors for LVEF recovery and assess the value of early follow‐up echocardiography (Echo) in risk assessment of post‐myocardial infarction (MI) patients.

Methods

One hundred one STEMI patients undergoing PPCI were enrolled provided EF below 50%. Baseline echocardiography assessed LVEF, volumes, wall motion score index (WMSI), global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), and E/e’. Follow‐up echocardiography after 6 weeks reassessed left ventricular volumes, LVEF and GLS.GCS was not assessed at follow up. Patients were classified into recovery and non‐recovery groups. Predictors of LVEF recovery and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at 6 months were analysed.

Results

The mean change of EF was 8.04 ± 3.32% in group I versus ‐.39 ± 5.09 % in group II (p < .001). Recovered patients had better baseline GLS, baseline GCS, E/e’, and follow‐up GLS. Multivariate regression analysis revealed E/e’, GCS, and follow‐up GLS after 6 weeks to be strong independent predictors for LVEF recovery. Composite MACE was considerably higher in group II (32.7% vs. 4.1%, p < .001) mainly driven by higher heart failure hospitalisation Multivariate regression analysis revealed baseline GLS, E/e’, and ejection fraction (EF) percentage recovery as strong independent predictors for MACE.

Conclusions

Multiparametric echocardiographic approach incorporating LVEF, strain parameters, and diastolic function could allow early optimal risk stratification after STEMI treated with PPCI. Follow‐up GLS and LVEF percentage change are the strongest predictors for early LV recovery and long term clinical outcome, respectively.
Linking pollen limitation and seed dispersal effectiveness
Authors: Leal Laura C. , Koski Matthew H.
Published: December 2023

Seed production and dispersal are crucial ecological processes impacting plant demography, species distributions and community assembly. Plant–animal interactions commonly mediate both seed production and seed dispersal, but current research often examines pollination and seed dispersal separately, which hinders our understanding of how pollination services affect downstream dispersal services. To fill this gap, we propose a conceptual framework exploring how pollen limitation can impact the effectiveness of seed dispersal for endozoochorous and myrmecochorous plant species. We summarize the quantitative and qualitative effects of pollen limitation on plant reproduction and use Optimal Foraging Theory to predict its impact on the foraging behaviour of seed dispersers. In doing so, we offer a new framework that poses numerous hypotheses and empirical tests to investigate links between pollen limitation and seed dispersal effectiveness and, consequently, post‐dispersal ecological processes occurring at different levels of biological organization. Finally, considering the importance of pollination and seed dispersal outcomes to plant eco‐evolutionary dynamics, we discussed the implications of our framework for future studies exploring the demographic and evolutionary impacts of pollen limitation for animal‐dispersed plants.
What drives closed‐end fund discounts? Evidence from COVID‐19
Authors: Ma Liang
Published: December 2023

This paper investigates the impact of the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States on closed‐end fund (CEF) discounts. I show that CEF discounts increased after the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States, while individual investor sentiment declined. Furthermore, CEFs with higher retail ownership had a larger discount increase, which suggests that individual investor sentiment is a potential contributor to CEF discounts. This finding seems less likely to be driven by rational channels or income‐driven fire sales, as shown by further analysis. Overall, the results shed light on the CEF discount puzzle using a new setting.
Genotype by environment model predictive ability in Miscanthus
Authors: Widener Sarah , Njuguna Joyce N. , Clark Lindsay V. , Anzoua Kossonou G. , Bagmet Larisa , Chebukin Pavel , Dwiyanti Maria S. , Dzyubenko Elena , Dzyubenko Nicolay , Ghimire Bimal Kumar , Jin Xiaoli , Jørgensen Uffe , Kjeldsen Jens Bonderup , Nagano Hironori , Peng Junhua , Petersen Karen Koefoed , Sabitov Andrey , Seong Eun Soo , Yamada Toshihiko , Yoo Ji Hye , Yu Chang Yeon , Zhao Hua , Jarquin Diego , Sacks Erik , Lipka Alexander E.
Published: December 2023

Miscanthus is a genus of perennial grasses native to East Asia that shows promise as a biofuel energy source. Breeding efforts for increasing biofuel capability in this genus have focused on two species, namely M. sinensis (Msi) and M. sacchariflorus (Msa). For these efforts to succeed, it is critical that both Msi and Msa, as well as their interspecific crosses, can be grown at a wide range of latitudes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate how well existing data from Msi and Msa trials grown at locations throughout the northern hemisphere can train state‐of‐the‐art genomic selection (GS) models to predict genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) of dry yield for untested Msi and Msa accessions in untested environments. We found that accounting for genotype by environment interaction in the GS model did not notably improve predictive ability. Additionally, we observed that locations at lower latitudes showed higher predictive ability relative to locations at higher latitudes. These results suggest that it is crucial to increase the number of trial locations at higher latitude locations to investigate the source of this correlation. This will make it possible to train GS models using data from environments that are similar to growing conditions at the locations targeted by Msi and Msa breeders. Such an increase of trial locations in target environments could pave the way toward advancing breeding efforts for overwintering ability in Msi and Msa, and ultimately support the potential of Miscanthus as a biofuel crop.
The value of qualitative longitudinal research for researchers and policy‐makers: Lessons learnt from exploring long‐term impacts of flooding
Authors: Philip Lorna J. , Currie Margaret , Lyon Gillian
Published: December 2023

This paper offers reflections about the use of a longitudinal qualitative research design in a project which explored the long term impacts of flooding in two communities in North‐East Scotland. A temporal turn in the social sciences has raised the profile of longitudinal qualitative approaches, research whose diachronic framing allows trajectories and nuanced understandings of change to emerge. With reference to research which utilised a planned prospective longitudinal design, we offer reflections on methodological and project management ‘lessons learnt’ from undertaking a longitudinal qualitative study. Our experiences highlighted the importance of: (i) participant recruitment processes, including a need to ‘oversample’ to accommodate anticipated attrition rates; (ii) developing and sustaining a relationship between participants and researchers; (iii) reporting interim findings to participants, the funder and flood risk management stakeholders via a project Steering Group in particular; and (iv) agreeing a regular reporting schedule which allowed the funder and stakeholders access to findings during the lifetime of the project which, in turn, allowed impact to be generated before the final report was presented. In sharing our experiences our intention is twofold: to open a debate in human geography about how longitudinal qualitative research could be used more widely, in natural hazards research, rural community change and other research areas; and to illustrate that longitudinal qualitative research generates insights that can contribute to evidence‐based policy development, implementation and evaluation.
Microstructure and properties of microporous MgO–Al2O3 refractory aggregates from Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3
Authors: Yan Junjie , Yan Wen , Wang Xiao , Li Nan
Published: December 2023

In this work, microporous MgO–Al2O3 refractory aggregates were prepared with Mg(OH)2 and Al(OH)3 via the in situ decomposition synthesis method. The effect of Al(OH)3 addition on the microstructure and properties of microporous MgO–Al2O3 refractory aggregates was investigated with scanning electron microscope and mercury intrusion porosimetry. The results indicated that the improved green density of the samples and the reaction sintering accelerated the mass transport rate with adding Al(OH)3 from 0 to 4.0 wt%. Besides, a small amount of Al3+ diffused into porous MgO particles, accelerating the merging and growth of nanopores in the porous MgO particles. The intra‐particle pore size and the densification degree of microparticles were increased, and thus the strength of the samples was improved. Due to the formation of Kirkendall voids by interdiffusion of Mg2+ and Al3+, the inter‐particle pore size increased. Adding Al(OH)3 from 4.0 to 17.6 wt%, the Kirkendall voids weakened the mass transport rate and improved the inter‐particle pore size. The merging and growth of nanopores in the MgO particles were limited, resulting in the reduced intra‐particle pore size and increased intra‐particle pore number. The densification degree of microparticles was reduced, and thus the strength of the samples decreased. At the Al(OH)3 addition of 4.0 wt%, microporous MgO–Al2O3 refractory aggregates had the best comprehensive properties, a bulk density of 2.48 g/cm3, an apparent porosity of 29.4%, a median pore size of 1.6 μm with 42.2 vol% nanopores and the thermal conductivity of 4.0 W/(m K).
Effet de la migration internationale de main‐d'œuvre sur l'agriculture au Népal: mise en friche, diversification des moyens de subsistance et adoption de technologies agricoles
Authors: KARKI NEPAL Apsara , NEPAL Mani , BLUFFSTONE Randall
Published: December 2023

Les auteurs étudient l'effet de la migration internationale temporaire de main‐d'œuvre sur l'abandon de terres cultivées, l'adoption de techniques d'intensification agricole et la diversification des moyens de subsistance au Népal. Ils appliquent des méthodes empiriques d'inférence causale en s'appuyant sur des données représentatives au niveau national. Ils établissent que les familles de migrants ont plus de 50 pour cent de chances en plus de laisser des terres en friche que celles de non‐migrants. La migration internationale temporaire favorise l'adoption de pratiques d'intensification agricole et incite les ménages ruraux à diversifier leurs moyens de subsistance. Si la déprise agricole est susceptible d'aggraver l'insécurité alimentaire, l'intensification de l'agriculture peut en revanche la réduire, d'où un effet net incertain.
Obstáculos a la participación laboral de las mujeres árabes palestinas en Israel
Authors: MIAARI Sami H. , KHATTAB Nabil , SABBAH‐KARKABI Maha
Published: December 2023

Pese al reciente aumento del nivel de estudios de las mujeres árabes palestinas en Israel, sus tasas de actividad y ocupación siguen siendo inferiores a las de las mujeres judías. En este estudio, basado en datos de la Encuesta de Población Activa y la Encuesta Social de Israel (periodo 1995‐2016), se investiga si este patrón se explica por factores socioeconómicos y demográficos, la religiosidad, los activos de capital humano, la estructura familiar y políticas públicas conexas, y la jubilación anticipada. Se constata que estos factores afectan a la participación de las mujeres árabes palestinas en el mercado laboral, de lo que se extraen algunas recomendaciones de políticas.
Role of activation signatures in re‐entrant ventricular tachycardia circuits
Authors: Ciaccio Edward J. , Saluja Deepak S. , Peters Nicholas S. , Yarmohammadi Hirad
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Development of a rapid means to verify the ventricular tachycardia (VT) isthmus location from heart surface electrogram recordings would be a helpful tool for the electrophysiologist.

Method

Myocardial infarction was induced in 22 canines by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation under general anesthesia. After 3–5 days, VT was inducible via programmed electrical stimulation at the anterior left ventricular epicardial surface. Bipolar VT electrograms were acquired from 196 to 312 recording sites using a multielectrode array. Electrograms were marked for activation time, and activation maps were constructed. The activation signal, or signature, is defined as the cumulative number of recording sites that have activated per millisecond, and it was utilized to segment each circuit into inner and outer circuit pathways, and as an estimate of best ablation lesion location to prevent VT.

Results

VT circuit components were differentiable by activation signals as: inner pathway (mean: 0.30 sites activating/ms) and outer pathway (mean: 2.68 sites activating/ms). These variables were linearly related (p < .001). Activation signal characteristics were dependent in part upon the isthmus exit site. The inner circuit pathway determined by the activation signal overlapped and often extended beyond the activation map isthmus location for each circuit. The best lesion location estimated by the activation signal would likely block an electrical impulse traveling through the isthmus, to prevent VT in all circuits.

Conclusions

The activation signal algorithm, simple to implement for real‐time computer display, approximates the VT isthmus location and shape as determined from activation marking, and best ablation lesion location to prevent reinduction.
Pediatric and adult meningeal, parenchymal, and spinal tuberculosis: A neuroimaging review
Authors: Mertiri Livja , Freiling John T. , Desai Nilesh K. , Kralik Stephen F. , Huisman Thierry A. G. M.
Published: December 2023

Neurotuberculosis is defined as a tuberculous infection of the meninges, brain parenchyma, vessels, cranial and spinal nerves, spinal cord, skull, and spine that can occur either in a localized or in a diffuse form.

It is a heterogeneous disease characterized by many imaging appearances and it has been defined as “the great mimicker” due to similarities with many other conditions.

The diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis (TB) is based on clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, laboratory and microbiological findings, and comprehensive evaluation of the response to anti‐TB drug treatment.

However, the absence of specific symptoms, the wide spectrum of neurological manifestations, the myriad of imaging findings, possible inconclusive laboratory results, and the paradoxical reaction to treatment make the diagnosis often challenging and difficult, potentially delaying adequate treatment with possible devastating short‐term and long‐term neurologic sequelae.

Familiarity with the imaging characteristics helps in accurate diagnosis and may prevent or limit significantly morbidity and mortality. The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive up‐to‐date overview of the conventional and advanced imaging features of CNS TB for radiologists, neuroradiologists, and pediatric radiologists. We discuss the most typical neurotuberculosis imaging findings and their differential diagnosis in children and adults with the goal to provide a global overview of this entity.
Sex differences in systemic inflammation and immune function in diet‐induced obesity rodent models: A systematic review
Authors: Braga Tibaes Jenneffer Rayane , Barreto Silva Maria Ines , Wollin Bethany , Vine Donna , Tsai Sue , Richard Caroline
Published: December 2023

Understanding sex differences in immunological responses in the context of obesity is important to improve health outcomes. This systematic review aimed to investigate sex differences in systemic inflammation, immune cell phenotype, and function in diet‐induced obesity (DIO) animal models. A systematic search in Medline, Embase, and CINAHL from inception to April 2023 was conducted, using a combination of the following concepts: sex, obesity, cytokines, and immune cell phenotypes/function. Forty‐one publications reporting on systemic inflammation (61%), cell phenotype (44%), and/or function (7%) were included. Females had lower systemic inflammation compared with males in response to DIO intervention and a higher proportion of macrophage (M)2‐like cells compared with males that had a higher proportion of M1‐like in adipose tissue. Although there were no clear sex differences in immune function, high‐fat DIO intervention remains an important factor in the development of immune dysfunction in both males and females, including disturbances in cytokine production, proliferation, and migration of immune cells. Yet, the mechanistic links between diet and obesity on such immune dysfunction remain unclear. Future studies should investigate the role of diet and obesity in the functionality of immune cells and employ adequate methods for a high‐quality investigation of sex differences in this context.
Associations between anxiety, depression, and weight status during and after pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Griffiths Alex , Shannon Oliver M. , Brown Tamara , Davison Monica , Swann Catherine , Jones Andrew , Ells Louisa , Matu Jamie
Published: December 2023

Previous work has found adverse mental health symptomology in women living with obesity, compared with those of healthy weight, around the time of pregnancy. This meta‐analysis aimed to explore the association between anxiety, depression, and weight status in women living with obesity before, during, and after pregnancy. Bibliographic databases were systematically searched, and 14 studies were included, which aimed to assess the association between excess weight and anxiety or depression outcomes in women before, during, or after pregnancy. Data were analyzed via narrative synthesis and random effects multi‐level meta‐analyses. Scores on mental health indices were significantly greater (indicative of worse anxiety/depression) in women with obesity compared to women of a healthy weight, around the time of pregnancy (SMD = 0.21 [95% CI: 0.11–0.31; 95% prediction intervals: 0.13–0.56], I2 = 73%, p < 0.01). Depressive symptoms were greater during and after pregnancy (SMD = 0.23 [95% CI: 0.13–0.34; 95% prediction intervals: −0.12 to 0.59], I2 = 75.0%, p < 0.01), and trait anxiety symptoms were greater during pregnancy (SMD = 0.24 [95% CI: 0.01–0.47; 95% prediction intervals: −0.25 to 0.72], I2 = 83.7%, p = 0.039) in women living with obesity, compared to those of healthy weight. Narrative evidence suggests that socioeconomic status and ethnicity may modify the relationship between obesity and mental health symptomology. The findings indicate that maternal obesity is associated with greater anxiety and depression symptoms. These findings may inform the design of maternal weight management interventions.
A comparison of retrospectively reported and ecological momentary assessment‐reported perceived social support in predicting ecological momentary assessment‐reported non‐suicidal self‐injury
Authors: Christensen Kirsten , Victor Sarah E. , Littlefield Andrew K. , Mitchell Sean M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) urges and behaviors are associated with lower perceived social support and related constructs (e.g., perceived rejection). However, no studies have examined the concordance of retrospective (baseline) and ecological momentary assessment (EMA) perceived social support assessments. Retrospective and EMA reports are often only weakly to moderately correlated; measurement approaches may, therefore, impact observed associations between variables. We tested whether average EMA‐reported perceived emotional social support uniquely predicts EMA‐reported NSSI urges and behaviors above baseline‐reported retrospective self‐report of perceived emotional social support alone.

Methods

93 young adults (ages 18–34) with past‐month NSSI urges or behaviors and lifetime NSSI behaviors completed a semi‐structured interview, self‐report surveys, and a 2‐week EMA protocol.

Results

Baseline‐ and EMA‐reported perceived emotional social support were positively correlated (Kendall's tau‐b = 0.51). Average EMA‐reported social support was uniquely associated with EMA‐reported NSSI urges but not NSSI behaviors.

Conclusions

EMA‐reported perceived emotional social support captured information not represented by baseline reports alone, but improvement in model fit was modest. EMA‐reported social support may further improve the estimation of EMA‐reported NSSI urges if modeled as a proximal predictor of NSSI. Further work is needed to clarify temporal directions between social support and NSSI urges. Limitations are discussed.