bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the reliability of polar field rise rate as a precursor for an early prediction of solar cycle
Authors: Biswas Akash , Karak Bidya Binay , Kumar Pawan
Published: September 2023

The prediction of the strength of an upcoming solar cycle has been a long-standing challenge in the field of solar physics. The inherent stochastic nature of the underlying solar dynamo makes the strength of the solar cycle vary in a wide range. Till now, the polar precursor methods and the dynamo simulations that use the strength of the polar field at the cycle minimum to predict the strength of the following cycle have gained reasonable consensus by providing convergence in the predictions for Solar Cycles 24 and 25. Recently, it has been shown that just by using the observed correlation of the polar field rise rate with the peak of the polar field at the cycle minimum and the amplitude of the following cycle, a reliable prediction can be made much earlier than the cycle minimum. In this work, we perform surface flux transport (SFT) simulations to explore the robustness of this correlation against the stochastic fluctuations of bipolar magnetic region (BMR) tilt properties including anti-Joy and anti-Hale type anomalous BMRs, and against the variation of meridional flow speed. We find that the observed correlation is a robust feature of the solar cycles and thus it can be utilized for a reliable prediction of the solar cycle much earlier than the cycle minimum – the usual landmark of the solar cycle prediction.
Growing pains: understanding the impact of likelihood uncertainty on hierarchical Bayesian inference for gravitational-wave astronomy
Authors: Talbot Colm , Golomb Jacob
Published: September 2023

Observations of gravitational waves emitted by merging compact binaries have provided tantalizing hints about stellar astrophysics, cosmology, and fundamental physics. However, the physical parameters describing the systems (mass, spin, distance) used to extract these inferences about the Universe are subject to large uncertainties. The most widely used method of performing these analyses requires performing many Monte Carlo integrals to marginalize over the uncertainty in the properties of the individual binaries and the survey selection bias. These Monte Carlo integrals are subject to fundamental statistical uncertainties. Previous treatments of this statistical uncertainty have focused on ensuring that the precision of the inferred inference is unaffected; however, these works have neglected the question of whether sufficient accuracy can also be achieved. In this work, we provide a practical exploration of the impact of uncertainty in our analyses and provide a suggested framework for verifying that astrophysical inferences made with the gravitational-wave transient catalogue are accurate. Applying our framework to models used by the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA collaboration and in the wider literature, we find that Monte Carlo uncertainty in estimating the survey selection bias is the limiting factor in our ability to probe narrow population models and this will rapidly grow more problematic as the size of the observed population increases.
Signaling, Resolve, and Reputation in International Politics
Authors: Casler Don , Yarhi-Milo Keren
Published: September 2023

Scholars of international politics persistently debate the nature and relative importance of reputation in explaining state behavior. This chapter diagrams the basic questions at stake in the research agenda on reputation, resolve, and signaling in international relations. After clarifying the meaning of key terms, it presents an overview of conventional rationalist scholarship on signaling, resolve, and reputation before contrasting these accounts with insights derived from psychology. Among the chapter’s core contributions is to highlight both the divergences and complementarities between these scholarly traditions in their accounts of how states and leaders develop beliefs about reputation and assess others, particularly through the lens of costly signals. The chapter concludes by making a series of suggestions for new scholarship along currently understudied avenues within an overall vibrant research program.
Public Opinion about Foreign Policy
Authors: Kertzer Joshua D.
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores psychological approaches to the study of public opinion in foreign policy. Traditionally the study of public opinion in IR was disconnected from work in political psychology, but more recent work has sought to bridge the divide, at the same time that work in IR and foreign policy is increasingly interested in microfoundations more broadly. Topics covered include competing psychological models about the structure of foreign policy attitudes, the dynamics of public opinion toward the use of force (including the democratic peace, audience cost models, rally-around-the-flag effects, against type models, and public attitudes toward nuclear weapons), and the origins of public opinion on foreign economic issues like trade.
National Identity, Patriotism, and Nationalism
Authors: Huddy Leonie
Published: September 2023

Citizens form strong psychological attachments to the nation-state, which has proven to be a robust and enduring political entity. But citizens relate to a nation in different ways. This chapter reviews the many ways in which national attachments have been theorized and measured, drawing a sharp distinction between nationalism and patriotism. Nationalism or national chauvinism holds potentially negative normative consequences and can undercut national unity by creating internal divisions and stoking suspicion of outsiders. In contrast, patriotism fosters national solidarity, promotes trust among co-nationals, and enhances civic engagement. The chapter reviews the theoretical underpinnings, specific measurement, and political effects of both nationalism and patriotism. It also includes a discussion of the conditions under which nationalism is activated by political parties and leaders.
The Social Identity Approach to Political Leadership
Authors: Mols Frank , Haslam S. Alexander , Platow Michael J. , Reicher Stephen D. , Steffens Niklas K.
Published: September 2023

Political leadership research has evolved in three broad phases. Early 20th century research focused on “charismatic” leaders, with Frankfurt School sociologists invoking Freudian principles to explain charismatic leadership and followership. Subsequent research focused on a match between context and leadership style. More recently, research has returned to the question of why some leaders have strong charismatic appeal and the capacity to cultivate followership. The social identity approach to political leadership advanced in this chapter offers a radical (fourth) alternative to this traditional individualistic analysis by focusing on the social and psychological group processes that leaders activate and engage with. In this approach, leadership results from a process of effective “identity entrepreneurship” in which influence derives from would-be leaders’ (a) capacity to redefine followers’ shared self-understanding, and (b) ability to present their political projects as epitomizing “who we are,” “what we are about,” and “who we want to be.”
Childhood and Adult Political Development
Authors: Sears David O. , Brown Christia
Published: September 2023

This chapter presents a literature review expanding research on political socialization to development of political attitudes and behavior over the full life course. The fundamental question is the extent to which, and under what conditions, early experiences leave predispositions that dominate later experiences. It first addresses development of political attitudes and behavior in the preadult years, and then traces development through the adult years. Four models are contrasted: persistence, impressionable years (including generational and collective memory effects), lifelong openness, and effects unique to particular life stages. It makes a case for the persistence and impressionable years models as explanations for adult party identification and racial attitudes.
The Evolutionary Approach to Political Psychology
Authors: Bang Petersen Michael
Published: September 2023

This chapter reviews how biological evolution has shaped human political psychology and how political psychologists can approach the study of evolution and politics. The core argument of the evolutionary approach to political psychology is that our ancestors repeatedly faced political problems as part of their small-scale social life. If evolution had not designed the human mind to deal with these problems, our ancestors would not have survived and reproduced. Accordingly, political psychologists should expect the human mind to contain a large number of psychological mechanisms specifically dedicated to political decision-making. The chapter outlines the general political problems faced by our ancestors; illustrates the evolutionary approach through in-depth discussions of the politics of pathogen avoidance, cheater detection, and status seeking; provides concrete advice on how to theorize about political psychology from an evolutionary perspective; and discusses how an evolutionary perspective sheds new light on classical discussions about citizens’ rationality.
Hydroxycinnamaldehyde-derived benzofuran components in lignins
Authors: Yoshioka Koichi , Kim Hoon , Lu Fachuang , De Ridder Nette , Vanholme Ruben , Kajita Shinya , Boerjan Wout , Ralph John
Published: September 2023

Lignin is an abundant polymer in plant secondary cell walls. Prototypical lignins derive from the polymerization of monolignols (hydroxycinnamyl alcohols), mainly coniferyl and sinapyl alcohol, via combinatorial radical coupling reactions and primarily via the endwise coupling of a monomer with the phenolic end of the growing polymer. Hydroxycinnamaldehyde units have long been recognized as minor components of lignins. In plants deficient in cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, the last enzyme in the monolignol biosynthesis pathway that reduces hydroxycinnamaldehydes to monolignols, chain-incorporated aldehyde unit levels are elevated. The nature and relative levels of aldehyde components in lignins can be determined from their distinct and dispersed correlations in 2D 1H–13C-correlated nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. We recently became aware of aldehyde NMR peaks, well resolved from others, that had been overlooked. NMR of isolated low-molecular-weight oligomers from biomimetic radical coupling reactions involving coniferaldehyde revealed that the correlation peaks belonged to hydroxycinnamaldehyde-derived benzofuran moieties. Coniferaldehyde 8-5-coupling initially produces the expected phenylcoumaran structures, but the derived phenolic radicals undergo preferential disproportionation rather than radical coupling to extend the growing polymer. As a result, the hydroxycinnamaldehyde-derived phenylcoumaran units are difficult to detect in lignins, but the benzofurans are now readily observed by their distinct and dispersed correlations in the aldehyde region of NMR spectra from any lignin or monolignol dehydrogenation polymer. Hydroxycinnamaldehydes that are coupled to coniferaldehyde can be distinguished from those coupled with a generic guaiacyl end-unit. These benzofuran peaks may now be annotated and reported and their structural ramifications further studied.
Redox-mediated activation of ATG3 promotes ATG8 lipidation and autophagy progression in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Mallén-Ponce Manuel J , Pérez-Pérez María Esther
Published: September 2023

Autophagy is one of the main degradative pathways used by eukaryotic organisms to eliminate useless or damaged intracellular material to maintain cellular homeostasis under stress conditions. Mounting evidence indicates a strong interplay between the generation of reactive oxygen species and the activation of autophagy. Although a tight redox regulation of autophagy has been shown in several organisms, including microalgae, the molecular mechanisms underlying this control remain poorly understood. In this study, we have performed an in-depth in vitro and in vivo redox characterization of ATG3, an E2-activating enzyme involved in ATG8 lipidation and autophagosome formation, from 2 evolutionary distant unicellular model organisms: the green microalga Chlamydomonas (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) and the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Our results indicated that ATG3 activity from both organisms is subjected to redox regulation since these proteins require reducing equivalents to transfer ATG8 to the phospholipid phosphatidylethanolamine. We established the catalytic Cys of ATG3 as a redox target in algal and yeast proteins and showed that the oxidoreductase thioredoxin efficiently reduces ATG3. Moreover, in vivo studies revealed that the redox state of ATG3 from Chlamydomonas undergoes profound changes under autophagy-activating stress conditions, such as the absence of photoprotective carotenoids, the inhibition of fatty acid synthesis, or high light irradiance. Thus, our results indicate that the redox-mediated activation of ATG3 regulates ATG8 lipidation under oxidative stress conditions in this model microalga.
The Golden State’s Veiled Dichotomy
Authors: Albin Ray R
Published: September 2023

Visions of the West and specifically California as a free domain captivated many Americans leading up to, during, and after the Gold Rush. This perception was a myth that did not mesh with the reality of the blatant slavery and racism that existed there. This dichotomy remained largely veiled since then, only to resurface as recent scholarship revealed that California was not a shining beacon of virtuousness in the mid-nineteenth century.

This article explores the impact of California’s overt tolerance for racism and slavery during its formative years of statehood. The legislated but unjust denial of civil rights to the state’s Black community also impacted its Chinese, Californios, and Indigenous peoples, with the latter group enduring horrific genocide. Their collective struggle for equality in a free state remained entangled in a web of statewide bigotry and White dominance that permeated all three branches of the state government. Interwoven with such inconsistencies is the scandalous development of San Quentin prison, a financial sieve that facilitated the slaveholding lessee’s largely unreported for-profit kidnapping and sale of two Black inmates (one a slave and the other a freeman) in 1855. The active racism, the cases of free and fugitive slaves being returned to their owners under the state’s own unique fugitive slave law, and the abduction of these two Black prisoners echo similar behaviors in slave states. They lay bare the myth of a free California that was, on the contrary, connected to the national slavery conundrum and was not the glowing outpost of freedom often described then in the eastern press and still believed by many, even today. Suffice it to say that the origins of the current reparations movement for California’s eligible Blacks can be traced to the mid-1850s history of California.
Cleft palate and minor metabolic disturbances in a mouse global Arl15 gene knockout
Authors: Bai Ying , Bentley Liz , Ma Chao , Naveenan Navaratnam , Cleak James , Wu Yixing , Simon Michelle M. , Westerberg Henrik , Cañas Ramón Casero , Horner Neil , Pandey Rajesh , Paphiti Keanu , Schulze Ulrike , Mianné Joffrey , Hough Tertius , Teboul Lydia , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Cox Roger D.
Published: September 2023

ARL15, a small GTPase protein, was linked to metabolic traits in association studies. We aimed to test the Arl15 gene as a functional candidate for metabolic traits in the mouse. CRISPR/Cas9 germline knockout (KO) of Arl15 showed that homozygotes were postnatal lethal and exhibited a complete cleft palate (CP). Also, decreased cell migration was observed from Arl15 KO mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Metabolic phenotyping of heterozygotes showed that females had reduced fat mass on a chow diet from 14 weeks of age. Mild body composition phenotypes were also observed in heterozygous mice on a high‐fat diet (HFD)/low‐fat diet (LFD). Females on a HFD showed reduced body weight, gonadal fat depot weight and brown adipose tissue (BAT) weight. In contrast, in the LFD group, females showed increased bone mineral density (BMD), while males showed a trend toward reduced BMD. Clinical biochemistry analysis of plasma on HFD showed transient lower adiponectin at 20 weeks of age in females. Urinary and plasma Mg2+ concentrations were not significantly different. Our phenotyping data showed that Arl15 is essential for craniofacial development. Adult metabolic phenotyping revealed potential roles in brown adipose tissue and bone development.
Excimer Laser Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Anterior Corneal Opacification After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Vernin Alice , Schrittenlocher Silvia , Matthaei Mario , Roters Sigrid , Siebelmann Sebastian , Bachmann Björn , Schiller Petra , Cursiefen Claus , Schlereth Simona L.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcome of excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for treating remaining anterior corneal opacities after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).

Methods:

This cohort study analyzed 67 eyes of 66 patients undergoing PTK in addition to and after DMEK between 2012 and 2021 at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne. Patients who were treated by PTK after previous DMEK on the same eye were included. The outcome parameters were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), changes in refraction, endothelial cell density, corneal densitometry, central corneal thickness, and total corneal higher order aberrations. Patients with visual limitations in addition to anterior opacification were analyzed separately for their visual outcome. Eyes with severe visual limitations that have a very limited visual potential were excluded from the study. In addition, patients with not at least 1 postoperative follow-up examination were excluded from the study.

Results:

In this study, 67 eyes of 66 patients met all inclusion criteria. The median follow-up period was 13.1 (quartiles: 4.1; 30.7; interquartile range 26.6) months. The mean (±SD) BCVA improved from (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) 0.54 (±0.32) to 0.38 (±0.27) at the first postoperative visit (P < 0.001) and remained significantly improved at all follow-up examinations compared with preoperative BCVA. Refraction and endothelial cell density did not change significantly after PTK. There was a significant decrease in corneal backscatter in the anterior corneal layer (P < 0.001), and the total higher order aberration (P = 0.02) and central corneal thickness were significantly reduced at the most recent postoperative visit (P < 0.001). No immune reactions were observed.

Conclusions:

Excimer laser PTK after DMEK for persisting anterior corneal opacities has the potential to significantly improve patients’ vision without affecting refractive parameters or endothelial cell density.
Parent Perceptions of Transitioning From a 6-Bed Pod to a Single Family Room in a Mixed-Room Design NICU
Authors: Crump Laura , Gosselin Emilie , D'Addona Melissa , Feeley Nancy
Published: September 2023

Background:

As some neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) shift toward mixed-room designs, with different room types available throughout family's stays, there is a need to better understand parent perceptions of this transition.

Methods:

This study used a qualitative descriptive design to describe parent perceptions of transitioning from a 6-bed pod to a single family room in a mixed-room design NICU. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 10 mothers and 7 fathers who were regularly present on the unit before and after the transition. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted a minimum of 2 days after the transition occurred. Interviews were transcribed and then analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings:

Four themes were identified: going into the unknown; approaching the finish line; becoming comfortable in the new reality and seeing the benefits; and gaining autonomy and confidence in parenting.

Conclusion:

These results further our understanding of the transition process from a 6-bed pod to a single-family room for parents in the NICU. Staff should be sensitized to this experience to provide tailored information and support for parents throughout the transition.
Outcomes of re-referrals of patients with alcohol-associated liver disease, who were previously declined for liver transplantation
Authors: Cox Ben , Carrique Lauren , Di Maira Tommaso , Sales Isabel , Don Caitlin , Gomez-Aldana A. , Koshy Dilip , Abbey Susan , Lilly Les , Tsien Cynthia , Bhat Mamatha , Jaeckel Elmar , Lynch Marie-Josee , Selzner Nazia
Published: September 2023

Since 2018, our program has utilized specific psychosocial criteria and a multidisciplinary approach to assess patients for liver transplant due to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), rather than the 6-month abstinence rule alone. If declined based on these criteria, specific recommendations are provided to patients and their providers regarding goals for re-referral to increase the potential for future transplant candidacy. Recommendations include engagement in treatment for alcohol use disorder, serial negative biomarker testing, and maintenance of abstinence from alcohol. In our current study, we evaluate the outcomes of patients with ALD, who were initially declined upon assessment and re-referred to our program. This is a retrospective cohort study that includes 98 patients with ALD, who were previously declined for liver transplantation and were subsequently re-referred for liver transplant assessment between May 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021. We assess the outcomes of patients who were re-referred including acceptance for transplantation following a second assessment. Of the 98 patients who were re-referred, 46 (46.9%) fulfilled the recommendations made and proceeded to further medical evaluation. Nine were eventually transplanted; others are listed and are waiting for transplant. The presence of a partner was independently associated with a higher rate of acceptance (OR 0.16, 95% CI: 0.03–0.97, p = 0.05). Most of the patients who did not proceed further (n = 52) were declined again due to ALD contraindications (n = 33, 63.4%), including ongoing drinking and lack of engagement in recommended addiction treatment. Others had medical contraindications (11.2%), clinically improved (6.1%), had adherence issues (5.1%), or lack of adequate support (2%). Patients with ALD previously declined for a liver transplant can be re-referred and successfully accepted for transplantation by fulfilling the recommendations made by the multidisciplinary team. Important factors including ongoing abstinence, engagement in addiction treatment, and social support are key for successful acceptance.
L. barbarum (Lycium barbarum L.) supplementation for lipid profiles in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs
Authors: Zeng Xueyuan , Zhao Weimin , Wang Siming , Xiong Huazhong , Wu Junliang , Ren Jixiang
Published: September 2023

Background:

Dyslipidemia is a global health concern with an increasing prevalence worldwide.Lycium barbarum (L. barbarum) is widely used as a medicinal and functional food, and evidence suggests that it may be beneficial for lipid management. In this study, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigating the effects ofL. barbarumsupplementation on lipid profiles in adults.

Methods:

PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Wanfang Database were searched from inception until October 2022. The random-effect model was applied, and the pooled effect sizes were expressed as mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

The meta-analysis of 5 randomized controlled trials involving 259 subjects indicated thatL. barbarumsupplementation significantly decreased the triglyceride (TG) concentration (MD: 0.14 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.08–0.20) and increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration (HDL-C) (MD: −0.07 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.13 to −0.01). However, the reductions in total cholesterol (TC) concentration (MD: 0.11 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.37 to 0.59) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration (MD: 0.21 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.46 to 0.89) were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The present study showed thatL. barbarumsupplementation might have some beneficial effects on TG and HDL-C concentrations in adults, andL. barbarumfruit has an even greater effect on TG and HDL-C concentrations. Considering the sensitivity analyses and limitations of the study included, further large-scale studies are needed to confirm these findings.
The first case report of acute myocardial infarction in young adult caused by scrub typhus
Authors: Chen Yan , Guo Zhenfeng , Wang Li , Cheng Ningchang , Wang Cheng
Published: September 2023

Rationale:

Scrub typhus is a zoonotic disease caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, a gram-negative intracellular bacterium and endemic in Asia-Pacific area. Acute myocardial infarction after Oricntia tsutsugamushi infection was rarely reported, and young adult was not reported.

Patient conerns:

A 33-year-old man came to the emergency complained with chest tightness and fever for 4 days.

Diagonoses:

After Weil-Felix agglutination test (titer 1:160) twice, scrub typhus was diagnosed.

Interventions:

After treating with a hormonotherapy, antibiotic and ventilator-assisted ventilation, his chest tightness was mild lessened with normal breath and body temperature. However, an emergent coronary angiography performed unnormal, then a percutaneous coronary intervention was realized with the implantation of a stent.

Outcomes:

After the surgeon, his chest tightness was totally released, and he was discharged.

Lessons:

Our case was the first report of young adult acute myocardial infarction after O tsutsugamushi infection and we tried to figure out the potential mechanism and how to deal with.
Willingness to use acupuncture: Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices among allergic rhinitis patients
Authors: Cao Xueqiu , Liao Yong , Wu Xiaohui , Yang Qiang , Zhao Junhui , Gong Cheng , Xiang Lin , Tang Yao
Published: September 2023

This study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices (KABP) among China mainland allergic rhinitis (AR) participants regarding their willingness to use acupuncture. Little is known about the understanding, attitudes, beliefs and practices of people with AR in China. A questionnaire was designed and administered to AR participants in mainland China to gather information about KABP regarding acupuncture use. A total of 324 valid questionnaires were collected from 30 provinces on the Chinese mainland. We recorded basic information and data about AR. The questionnaire designed according to KABP theory and with excellent reliability (Cronbach α coefficient: 0.725) and validity (KMO: 0.819). Knowledge: Fifty-five percent (179) of respondents reported knowing about acupuncture. The majority (172) knew that acupuncture was used for AR; 119 had received acupuncture for AR, and about 66% were aware of acupuncture. Attitudes and beliefs: Seventy percent of patients were willing to recommend acupuncture for AR to family and friends. Practice: Approximately 75% of respondents were willing to undergo acupuncture if they knew it was effective for AR. Approximately 25% of the respondents answered “Do it a few times and see how it works,” “Do several treatments depending on how much they can afford,” or “It is up to the doctor to decide”. Correlation analysis: Those who identified with traditional Chinese medicine showed a robust willingness to recommend acupuncture for treating other diseases to family and friends (R = 0.718,P < .01) and a robust willingness to recommend acupuncture for AR to their families and friends (R = 0.564,P < .01). Acupuncture for AR has shown excellent awareness, recommendation and acceptance in mainland China. Efficacy, affordability, and trust in doctors were the 3 key factors that led respondents to choose acupuncture for their AR. Identification with traditional Chinese medicine culture significantly influenced attitudes, leading to AR recommendations and acceptance of acupuncture.
Physical Restraint Use in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Haywood Mary , Patel Lina
Published: September 2023

Children and adolescents can present to the emergency department with acute agitation and aggression due to various physical and/or mental health conditions. With acute agitation/aggression, these patients may present a risk of injury to themselves, their caregivers, or emergency department providers/staff. It is imperative for providers to understand how to safely care for these children. When initial deescalating interventions fail or an underlying etiology for the behavior change cannot be found, the use of physical restraints may be required. Without proper training or preparation, physical restraints can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Given these potential risks, strict guidelines have been set out by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Joint Commission regarding the use of physical restraints in the pediatric population. This article will review approaches to the acutely agitated/aggressive patient, the appropriate use of physical restraints, and recommended assessment/documentation of restraints in the acutely agitated/aggressive pediatric patient.
Aesthetic Outcomes in Cleft Care: Exploring Patterns in Patient-Reported Outcomes across Adolescence
Authors: Dunworth Kristina , Hernandez J. Andres , Ching Jessica , Golden Brent , Nguyen Phuong D. , Patel Kamlesh , Rogers-Vizena Carolyn R. , Rottgers S. Alex , Allori Alexander C.
Published: September 2023

Background:

For patients with cleft lip/palate, adolescence is a time of maxillofacial growth and complex psychosocial stressors. The personal significance of facial differences may change, making patient-reported outcomes measures invaluable. In this study, we use several scales from the CLEFT-Q and FACE-Q to explore how aesthetic outcomes differ by age and by gender among patients with unilateral cleft lip/palate.

Methods:

This was a multicenter, cross-sectional study that prospectively collected CLEFT-Q and FACE-Q data across 6 cleft treatment centers during clinical appointments from 2019 to 2022. Subjects were aged 8 to 22 years, with unilateral cleft lip, alveolus, and palate, who had not undergone tertiary operative care (maxillary advancement or septorhinoplasty) at the time of survey response. Data cross-sections were prepared by age (8 to 10, 11 to 13, and 14 years or older), by gender, and by age and gender together.

Results:

Older age groups reported poorer aesthetic outcomes and worse appearance-related distress compared with younger groups. Although male and female subjects reported similar aesthetic outcomes, female subjects reported more appearance-related distress. When considered simultaneously, age and gender appear to have an intersectional impact on perceived aesthetic outcome and appearance-related distress during adolescence.

Conclusions:

This exploratory project suggests that patients with cleft lip/palate may perceive worsening of facial aesthetics throughout the course of adolescence, the exact pattern of which may be dependent on gender. Future work will evaluate this hypothesis using longitudinal cohorts. It will be important to investigate psychosocial factors that may impact these outcomes, and also to quantify the impact of tertiary operative care on these outcomes.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, II.
Improved Early Post-Transplant Outcomes and Organ Use in Kidney Transplant Using Normothermic Regional Perfusion for Donation after Circulatory Death: National Experience in the US
Authors: Merani Shaheed , Urban Marian , Westphal Scott G , Dong James , Miles Clifford D , Maskin Alexander , Hoffman Arika , Langnas Alan N
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) is a technique that is intended to enhance organ transplant outcomes from donation circulatory death (DCD) donors.

STUDY DESIGN:

A retrospective analysis of data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients was performed. DCD donors were screened for inclusion based on date of donation 2020 or later, and whether the heart was also recovered for transplantation. We grouped donors as either donation after brain death or DCD. DCD donors were further divided into groups including those in which the heart was not recovered for transplant (Non-Heart DCD) and those in which it was, based on recovery technique (thoracoabdominal-NRP [TA-NRP] Heart DCD and Super Rapid Recovery Heart DCD).

RESULTS:

A total of 219 kidney transplant recipients receiving organs from TA-NRP Heart DCD donors were compared to 436 SRR Super Rapid Recovery DCD, 10,630 Super Rapid Recovery non-heart DCD, and 27,820 donations after brain death recipients. Kidney transplant recipients of TA-NRP DCD allografts experienced shorter length of stay, lower rates of delayed graft function, and lower serum creatinine at the time of discharge when compared with recipients of other DCD allografts.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our analysis demonstrates superior early kidney allograft function when TA-NRP is used for DCD organ recovery.
Bacterial Decellularization: Non-Chemical Production of Effective Plant Tissue Bio-Scaffolds
Authors: Rybchyn M.S. , Biazik J. , Nunez A.C. , le Coutre J.
Published: September 2023

Bio-scaffolds for the cellular agriculture field require to be simple, with low associated costs. Here, a method is described to generate decellularized leaf scaffolds utilizing a simple bacterial process, yielding scaffolds with the capacity to sustain myoblast attachment, growth, and differentiation.

To best develop a minimal cost decellularization process, we aimed to design the key steps of the method to be as “low-tech” as possible and not use chemical or thermal processing to produce the cellular scaffold. Decellularized leaves (DCL) from the black walnut tree (Juglans nigra) were successfully produced employing a domestic fish tank with a biological filtration system that supports an active aquatic nitrogen-fixing bacterial population, typically within 3-5 days. Following decellularization, the DCL were devoid of any pulp material as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). DCL produced in this way are an effective cellular scaffold, and the C2C12 myoblast cell line was shown to attach, proliferate and differentiate on DCL and maintain viability up to 3 weeks post-seeding. Differentiated cellular material grew extensively over the DCL veins and larger differentiated cellular structures extended between individual DCL veins.

The data presented provide a proof of concept for an inexpensive, simple, and chemical-free method for leaf decellularization, which supports myoblast attachment, growth, and differentiation. The technology provides clear applications for the cellular agriculture field where cost reduction, scalability, and simplification of established laboratory processes, such as bio scaffold production, is a key factor.
Luteibacter sahniisp. nov., a novel yellow-pigmented probiotic bacterium from rice seed microbiome
Authors: Jaiswal Gagandeep , Rana Rekha , Nayak Praveen Kumar , Chouhan Rekha , Gandhi Sumit G. , Patel Hitendra K. , Patil Prabhu B.
Published: September 2023

The genusLuteibacter, a member of the familyRhodanobacteraceae, encompasses Gram-negative bacteria found in diverse environments. In the present study, four yellow-pigmented bacterial isolates designated as PPL193T, PPL201, PPL552, and PPL554 were obtained and identified as Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and motile bacteria. Biochemical characterization and examination of the 16S rRNA gene sequence, derived from the genomic sequence, identified it as belonging to the genusLuteibacter. The isolates are closely related toLuteibacter yeojuensisR2A16-10T, forming a distinct monophyletic lineage withL. aegosomatisKCTC 92392TandL. anthropiCCUG25036T. The calculated values for pairwise ortho Average Nucleotide Identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization in comparison to previously reportedLuteibacterspecies fell below the established thresholds for species delineation. As this novel species was isolated from rice seeds as a potentialXanthomonasdue to its distinctive yellow-colored colonies, we sought to identify the presence of xanthomonadin pigment in this species. Intriguingly, our findings revealed the presence of the typical peak corresponding to xanthomonadin in the UV spectra, confirming its presence in this novel species and adaptation to plant habitat. Furthermore, the detailed genomic investigation also uncovered the genomic locus corresponding to xanthomonadin biosynthetic gene cluster, further suggesting that members of this novel species are co-habitants of plant pathogenic and plant probioticXanthomonasgroup of phytobacteria within rice seeds. Apart from protease production, the species was found to produce Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) in higher quantities and was also able to protect plants fromXanthomonas oryzaepv.oryzae, a major pathogen of rice indicating its probiotic nature. Genome scanning revealed the presence of genomic region(s) encoding loci for biosynthesis of anti-microbial peptides and other metabolites with probiotic properties, further confirming its probiotic properties. This study highlights the importance of using a combination of phenotypic and genotypic methods for bacterial identification and expands our knowledge of the diversity and distribution of diverse bacteria associated with rice seeds and their microbiome.Luteibacter sahniisp. nov. is proposed as a novel species of the genusLuteibacterwith PPL193T=MTCC 13290T=ICMP 24807T=CFBP 9144Tas its type strain and PPL201, PPL552, and PPL554 as other constituent members.
Crystal structures of five compounds in the aluminium–ruthenium–silicon system
Authors: Kitahara Koichi , Takakura Hiroyuki , Iwasaki Yutaka , Kimura Kaoru
Published: September 2023

Single crystals of five compounds with approximate compositions ∼Ru16(Al0.78Si0.22)47, (I), ∼Ru9(Al0.70Si0.30)32, (II), ∼Ru10(Al0.67Si0.33)41, (III), ∼Ru(Al0.57Si0.43)5, (IV), and ∼Ru2(Al0.46Si0.54)9, (V), were obtained from polycrystalline lumps mainly composed of the target compounds, and their crystal structures were determined by means of single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal structure of (I) can be related to that of a cubic rational crystalline approximant to an icosahedral quasicrystal through crystallographic shear and then unit-cell twinning. The crystal structure of (II) is isotypic with that of a phase with composition ∼Fe9(Al,Si)32. The crystal structure of (III) is comprised of edge-sharing Ru(Al,Si)9–11 polyhedra with disordered chains along edges of polyhedra. The crystal structure of (IV) is of the LiIrSn4 type. The crystal structure of (V) can be viewed as a crystallographic shear structure derived from that of (IV).
STEM education in England: questioning the “leaky pipeline” metaphor
Authors: Banerjee Pallavi , Graham Luke
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The skillsets of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates are widely recognised to be important for economic prosperity. At the same time, it is broadly accepted that in England there is a need to increase the number of people studying STEM degree courses and working in STEM. However, despite decades of interventions post-16, STEM participation rates remain lower than projected requirements. Some research reports suggest a lack of positive attitudes towards these subjects and aspirations amongst some social groups. As these debates continue, official reports such as those released by the Department for Education show these patterns from the labour market and higher education (HE) extend to both attainment and participation in science and math in school.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors summarise the authors' findings from the analysis of official reports, policy documents and major research reports focussing on attainment in school science and math and post-compulsory STEM participation.

Findings

The authors identify the problematic ways in which STEM subject choices are made across the student life cycle and then discuss how the leaky pipeline metaphor can be ambiguous and needs to be used with caution.

Research limitations/implications

Some aspects identified here warrant further research and will be of particular interest to researchers, practitioners and policymakers.

Originality/value

In this new report, the authors identify the problematic ways in which STEM subject choices are made across the student life cycle in England and then discuss how the leaky pipeline metaphor can be ambiguous and needs to be used with caution.
Understanding the role of learning communities of practice within a degree apprenticeship to enhance inclusive engagement
Authors: Nottingham Paula McIver , Mao Yan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Building on the concepts of learning communities of practice, the paper aims to evaluate their application within degree apprenticeships (DAs) to support pedagogic engagement and inclusive education within a university setting.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of an existing B2B sales degree apprenticeship reviewed relevant programme documents and evaluated apprentice learner experience through an anonymised online survey.

Findings

The study found that sales apprentices had a reflexive awareness of how learning communities operated within this context and raised some valuable insights about their perceptions of inclusive education. These communities have differing dynamics that value engaging with workplace professionals, peers and university. Apprentices prefer tuition that accommodates their shared interests as employee learners within an occupational role. Issues surrounding inclusive education are seen as integral to the experience of being an apprentice.

Practical implications

Post-Covid engagement could be used to frame more effective social learning for work-integrated practice and programme teams could advocate for a greater integration of DAs within institutional settings.

Originality/value

This research indicates that B2B sales degree apprentices see themselves as operating within distinctive learning communities of practice that support their work-integrated (WIL) studies in higher education. The paper recommends programme teams provide more collaborative engagement within learning communities to support inclusive education goals.
How will AI text generation and processing impact sustainability reporting? Critical analysis, a conceptual framework and avenues for future research
Authors: de Villiers Charl , Dimes Ruth , Molinari Matteo
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The ability of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT to produce convincing, human-like text has major implications for the future of corporate reporting, including sustainability reporting. As the importance of sustainability reporting continues to grow, this study aims to critically analyse the benefits and pitfalls of automated text generation and processing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops a conceptual framework to delineate the field, assess the implications and form the basis for the generation of research questions. This study uses Alvesson and Deetz’s critical framework, considering insight (a review of literature and practice in the field), critique (consideration of the influences on the production and use of non-financial information and the implications for assurers of such information) and transformative redefinition (considering the implications of generative AI for sustainability reporting and proposing a research agenda).

Findings

This study highlights the implications of generative AI for sustainability accounting, reporting, assurance and report usage, including the risk of AI facilitating greenwashing, and the importance of more research on the use of AI for these matters.

Practical implications

The paper highlights to stakeholders the implications of AI for all aspects of sustainability reporting, including accounting, reporting, assurance and usage of reports.

Social implications

The implications of AI need to be understood in society, which this paper facilitates.

Originality/value

This study critically analyses the potential use of AI for sustainability reporting, construct a conceptual framework to delineate the field and develop a research agenda.
Democracy, natural resources, and agricultural aid in Africa: Exploring the complex nexus of aid effectiveness and resource rent dependency
Authors: Mfouapon Alassa , Kamdem Cyrille Bergaly , Mohammadou Nourou , Djoumessi Yannick Fosso
Published: September 2023

The aid effectiveness is continually debated in development economics; there is no consensus among scholars on the impact of aid in developing countries, even though characterized by good institutions. An emerging issue in this discussion is the role of natural resources in determining the nature of the agricultural ODA (Official Development Assistance) and democracy nexus. Consequently, this study examines the effect of democracy on the agricultural ODA in Africa and how the country's natural resource rents mitigate this relationship using panel data of 50 countries over the 1995–2019 period. A set of econometric tools is used to estimate the time‐series cross‐sectional models, which include country fixed‐effects model and system generalized method of moments (system GMM), both to account for potential endogeneity and confoundedness issues. Regression results show a long‐run positive effect of democracy on agricultural ODA. However, this relationship is nonlinear. The interaction between democracy and resources indicates that natural resource wealth mitigates the positive gains from democracy on agricultural ODA. The study concludes that, while democratic reforms enhance the effectiveness of foreign aid directed to the agricultural sector, this positive effect depends on the natural‐resource wealth status of the country.
Model verification for population detection of counterfeits
Authors: Christian Joel B.
Published: September 2023

The quality of counterfeit items has increased dramatically, with modern global manufacturing being able to duplicate the materials, construction, and visual features of items. Detection of fraudulent coinage can parallel authentication of food, beverages, and manufactured goods by studying product‐inherent features. Counterfeit detection is performed by comparing an Example group with a Questioned group. A model is developed for both groups using standard tests on individual pieces. Coin weight is used here as an illustration. The model should also follow the natural science of the system. In this case, the manufacturing process variation is known and steady, and the underlying distribution is known or can be determined from authentic pieces. The proposed detection method uses testing of many individual pieces, then using reverse‐quality‐engineering methods to identify possible sources. This strategy looks at the variation between individual pieces to determine the process capability of a machine, assembly line, or plant to create product consistency for a manufacturer. Fraudulent items may be manufactured within specification, but demonstrate a manufacturing process capability different than that of the authentic manufacturer. In this report, we examine the model previously reported and use reconstruction techniques to re‐create the evidence set to validate the model, increase model accuracy, and confirm the conclusion previously reached, showing that the Questioned set is likely over 37% non‐conforming by weight. In this case, the decision outcome of the analysis was improved by using additional methods not included in the modeling software package originally used.