bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do they really care? Specificity of social support issues in hoarding disorder and obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Edwards Victoria , Salkovskis Paul M. , Bream Victoria
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Unmet interpersonal needs may play a role in excessive emotional attachments to objects for people with hoarding disorder (HD). Previous research indicates that social support (but not attachment difficulties) may be specific to HD. The study aimed to evaluate social networks and support in HD relative to clinical controls with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) and healthy controls (HC). The secondary aim was to explore the extent of loneliness and thwarted belongingness. Potential mechanisms for deficits in social support were also considered.

Design

A cross‐sectional between‐groups design was used to compare scores on measures in those with HD (n = 37); OCD (n = 31); and HCs (n = 45).

Methods

Participants completed a structured clinical interview by telephone (to assign diagnostic categories) followed by online questionnaires.

Results

Whilst individuals with HD and OCD both report smaller social networks than HC, lower levels of perceived social support appear to be specific to HD. The HD group also showed higher levels of loneliness and thwarted belonging compared to OCD and HC. No differences were found between groups for perceived criticism or trauma.

Conclusions

The results support previous findings of lower levels of self‐reported social support within HD. Loneliness and thwarted belongingness also appear significantly elevated within HD compared with OCD and HC. Further research is required to explore the nature of felt support and belonging, direction of effect and to identify potential mechanisms. Clinical implications include advocating and promoting support systems (both personal supporters and professionals) for individuals with HD.
BQ788 reveals glial ETB receptor modulation of neuronal cholinergic and nitrergic pathways to inhibit intestinal motility: Linked to postoperative ileus
Authors: Mazzotta Elvio , Grants Iveta , Villalobos‐Hernandez Egina , Chaudhuri Samhita , McClain Jonathon L. , Seguella Luisa , Kendig Derek M. , Blakeney Bryan A. , Murthy Srinivasa K. , Schneider Reiner , Leven Patrick , Wehner Sven , Harzman Alan , Grider John R. , Gulbransen Brian D. , Christofi Fedias L.
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

ET‐1 signalling modulates intestinal motility and inflammation, but the role of ET‐1/ETB receptor signalling is poorly understood. Enteric glia modulate normal motility and inflammation. We investigated whether glial ETB signalling regulates neural‐motor pathways of intestinal motility and inflammation.

Experimental Approach

We studied ETB signalling using: ETB drugs (ET‐1, SaTX, BQ788), activity‐dependent stimulation of neurons (high K+‐depolarization, EFS), gliotoxins, Tg (Ednrb‐EGFP)EP59Gsat/Mmucd mice, cell‐specific mRNA in Sox10CreERT2;Rpl22‐HAflx or ChATCre;Rpl22‐HAflx mice, Sox10CreERT2::GCaMP5g‐tdT, Wnt1Cre2::GCaMP5g‐tdT mice, muscle tension recordings, fluid‐induced peristalsis, ET‐1 expression, qPCR, western blots, 3‐D LSM‐immunofluorescence co‐labelling studies in LMMP‐CM and a postoperative ileus (POI) model of intestinal inflammation.

Key Results

In the muscularis externa ETB receptor is expressed exclusively in glia. ET‐1 is expressed in RiboTag (ChAT)‐neurons, isolated ganglia and intra‐ganglionic varicose‐nerve fibres co‐labelled with peripherin or SP. ET‐1 release provides activity‐dependent glial ETB receptor modulation of Ca2+ waves in neural evoked glial responses. BQ788 reveals amplification of glial and neuronal Ca2+ responses and excitatory cholinergic contractions, sensitive to L‐NAME. Gliotoxins disrupt SaTX‐induced glial‐Ca2+ waves and prevent BQ788 amplification of contractions. The ETB receptor is linked to inhibition of contractions and peristalsis. Inflammation causes glial ETB up‐regulation, SaTX‐hypersensitivity and glial amplification of ETB signalling. In vivo BQ788 (i.p., 1 mg·kg−1) attenuates intestinal inflammation in POI.

Conclusion and Implications

Enteric glial ET‐1/ETB signalling provides dual modulation of neural‐motor circuits to inhibit motility. It inhibits excitatory cholinergic and stimulates inhibitory nitrergic motor pathways. Amplification of glial ETB receptors is linked to muscularis externa inflammation and possibly pathogenic mechanisms of POI.
3D genome perspective on cell fate determination, organ regeneration, and diseases
Authors: Zhong Hongxin , Zhang Jie , Lu Yuli , Hu Gongcheng , Pan Guangjin , Yao Hongjie
Published: May 2023

The nucleosome is the fundamental subunit of chromatin. Nucleosome structures are formed by the combination of histone octamers and genomic DNA. Through a systematic and precise process of folding and compression, these structures form a 30‐nm chromatin fibre that is further organized within the nucleus in a hierarchical manner, known as the 3D genome. Understanding the intricacies of chromatin structure and the regulatory mode governing chromatin interactions is essential for unravelling the complexities of cellular architecture and function, particularly in relation to cell fate determination, regeneration, and the development of diseases. Here, we provide a general overview of the hierarchical structure of chromatin as well as of the evolution of chromatin conformation capture techniques. We also discuss the dynamic regulatory changes in higher‐order chromatin structure that occur during stem cell lineage differentiation and somatic cell reprogramming, potential regulatory insights at the chromatin level in organ regeneration, and aberrant chromatin regulation in diseases.
Wild About Wolves: Using collaboration and innovation to bridge parks, people, and predators
Authors: Doney Ethan D. , Frank Beatrice , Khan Zoheb , Windle Todd , Ford Adam T. , Olive Caron , Scherger Jenna K. , Williams Barney , Hetu Dennis , Peters Derek , Wišqii  , Zharikov Yuri , Hansen Bob , Forbes Sarah , Coulson Stephanie , Clark Douglas A.
Published: May 2023

Human‐carnivore conflicts present an array of conservation challenges, especially in complex and cross‐cultural settings. Described here is a facilitated, multi‐method, collaborative process in the Nuu‐chah‐nulth First Nations' Traditional Territory, British Columbia, Canada, aimed at building a project to address human‐wolf conflicts following the species' natural re‐colonization of a national park reserve. Participants reported that this project prompted dialogue and engagement that will help bridge the gap between First Nations and non‐Indigenous people in the Territory. Although the project remains ongoing, pragmatic lessons about its process can already be identified: (1) an early, and ongoing collaboration was crucial in setting the project's priorities; (2) adopting a co‐learning approach set a respectful tone for the project; and (3) reframing human‐wolf conflicts using a tolerance‐oriented lens bridged diverse perspectives and worldviews. The preliminary outcomes of these efforts to date are constitutively different from conventional collaborative efforts because the process has already changed relationships in ways that many such previous efforts have not.
Whose autonomy, whose interests? A donor‐focused analysis of surrogacy and egg donation from the global South
Authors: Andal Aireen Grace
Published: May 2023

This article provides a donor‐focused analysis of how transnational reproductive donation intersects with issues central to bodily autonomy of surrogates and egg donors from the global South. Little is known about the autonomy of surrogates and egg donors, especially among those from the global South. This article addresses this gap by examining two key issues on surrogacy and egg donation—conflict of interest and recruitment market. With these issues, this paper presents contexts of the reproductive body as a space of contestation for autonomy. Analysis reveals that bodily autonomy is not an absolute entitlement available for surrogates and egg donors from the global South. Having bodily autonomy is a privileged disposition rather than a universal liberty for reproductive donors. The discussions in this work encourage further examination to understand the multi‐layered experiences of reproductive donors from the global South, towards deeper interrogation of the processes of reproductive industry.
Introduction to special section: Workplace sexual harassment
Authors: Oosterom Marjoke , Nazneen Sohela
Published: May 2023

Motivation

Paid work is key for women's empowerment, but many women work in precarious employment where they experience workplace sexual harassment. Articles in this special section explore how social norms and job informality influence women's perceptions about—and their voice and agency to counter—workplace sexual harassment.

Purpose

This introductory article highlights the academic and policy contribution of the special section by establishing how the articles collectively explore the relationship between social norms, job informality, and women's agency with respect to workplace sexual harassment, and the kinds of policies that may strengthen women's agency.

Methods and approach

Research in two countries explored how gender norms and informality in work arrangements influence young women's voice and agency in response to sexual harassment at work. This article introduces four articles based on the research findings and presents the themes that are explored in case studies with domestic workers and workers in agro‐processing factories in Bangladesh and Uganda.

Findings

The findings show that gender norms regarding sexuality and notions of family honour and shame constrain young women's ability to voice incidents of sexual harassment and their agency in seeking support from family and other actors; normalize male aggression; and sustain the perpetrators' impunity. These norms, alongside class and power hierarchies, affect the responses of the actors and institutions both within and outside their workplace. Given the precarious nature of their work, most workers avoid lodging formal complaints and rely on informal mechanisms for self‐protection.

Policy implications

The policy implications of the research include the importance of developing common language that will allow women to speak openly about their experiences; increasing access to and confidence in formal complaints mechanisms; developing young women's political capacities to challenge harassment; and address social and gender norms that constrain women and normalize harassment.
Assessment of left ventricular energy loss in patients with mild coronary artery stenosis by using vector flow mapping combined with exercise stress echocardiography
Authors: Xiao Qiuyu , Zhao Xin , Yang Rui , Li Zizhuo , Li Dongmei , Xie Yuanyuan , Mao Xinyue , Wang Yi , Yin Lixue , Li Chunmei , Zuo Mingliang , Meng Qingguo , Li Wenhua , Liu Xuebing , Li Zhaohuan , Zhang Qingfeng , Deng Yan
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the left ventricular energy loss (EL), energy loss reserve (EL‐r), and energy loss reserve rate in patients with mild coronary artery stenosis by using vector flow mapping (VFM) combined with exercise stress echocardiography.

Methods

A total of 34 patients (case group) with mild coronary artery stenosis and 36 sex and age matched patients (control group) without coronary artery stenosis according to coronary angiogram were prospectively enrolled. The total energy loss (ELt), basal segment energy loss (ELb), middle segment energy loss (ELm), apical segment energy loss (ELa), energy loss reserve (EL‐r), and energy loss reserve rate were recorded in the isovolumic systolic period (S1), rapid ejection period (S2), slow ejection period (S3), isovolumic diastolic period (D1), rapid filling period (D2), slow filling period (D3), and atrial contraction period (D4).

Results

Compared with the control group, some of the EL in the resting case group were higher; some of the EL in the case group were lower after exercise, and those during D1 ELb and D3 ELb were higher. Compared with the resting state, the total EL and the EL within the time segment in the control group were higher after exercise, except during D2 ELb. In the case group, except for during D1 ELt, ELb and D2 ELb, the total and segmental EL of each phase was mostly higher after exercise (p < .05). Compared with the control group, most of the EL‐r and EL reserve rates in the case group were lower (p < .05).

Conclusion

The EL, EL‐r, and energy loss reserve rate have a certain value in the evaluation of cardiac function in patients with mild coronary artery stenosis.
Social networks and managerial rent‐seeking: Evidence from executive trading profitability
Authors: Fang Xiaohua , Rao Xi , Zhang Wenjun
Published: May 2023

This study examines whether board social networks are associated with executive trading profitability. Using a sample of US public firms with a history of executive trading from years 2000 to 2015, we find robust evidence that the profitability of executive trading is significantly lower in firms with higher levels of board social networks. The evidence is consistent with our view that board social networks effectively curb executives' private information advantage over outsiders, thus leading to a lower level of managerial rent‐seeking. Our research has policy implications for regulators concerned about the role of corporate board in capital markets.
A survey on agent‐based modelling assisted by machine learning
Authors: Platas‐López Alejandro , Guerra‐Hernández Alejandro , Quiroz‐Castellanos Marcela , Cruz‐Ramirez Nicandro
Published: May 2023

Agent‐based models have diversified their applications across various domains due to the ease with which different phenomena can be represented and simulated. These models incorporate heterogeneous, autonomous agents, local interactions, bounded rationality, and often feature explicit spatial representations. However, certain challenges have been identified in their application, including the complexity of design, difficulty in calibrating parameters, and interpreting and analysing results. Therefore, incorporating machine learning (ML) tools in the various stages of the agent‐based modelling and simulation process presents a promising approach for current and future research. The main hypothesis of this study is that integrating ML techniques and tools into agent‐based modelling can help address challenges encountered during different stages of implementation, ultimately leading to more accurate and effective simulations. The methodology employed in this study involves a comprehensive search and analysis of relevant literature on the topic. This survey reviews significant developments in the integration of ML into the agent‐based modelling and simulation process in recent years. The results of this study summarize the fundamental concepts of ML and its applications in agent‐based modelling, and provide insights into the prospects and challenges for ML‐assisted agent‐based modelling in the near future.
Faster Region‐based Convolutional Neural Networks with You Only Look Once multi‐stage caries lesion from oral panoramic X‐ray images
Authors: Velusamy Jayaraj , Rajajegan T. , Alex Sini Anna , Ashok M. , Mayuri A. V. R. , Kiran Siripuri
Published: May 2023

Neural networks and artificial intelligence find more applications in dentistry. It treats dental caries, the most prevalent type of dental illness worldwide. Even though dental caries can be prevented and treated, they typically cause dental discomfort and tooth loss. For dental caries to be treated quickly and effectively, comprehensive detection may be needed, a combination of techniques that include eye inspection, probing, using a dental probe, and using a hand‐held mirror, and the individual application of each of these techniques, can quickly identify large caries cavities. Long‐established caries detection techniques help to locate only partially hidden but still accessible holes. Deep learning (DL) techniques have produced remarkable diagnostic results in radiology. This study aimed to classify various radiographic extensions on panoramic films using DL techniques, identify caries lesions using these techniques, and compare the results to those of dentists with extensive training. Faster region‐based convolutional neural networks (R‐CNN) is a newly discovered field of medical research that is rapidly expanding and has produced outstanding results in diagnosing and prognosis of pathology and radiology conditions. In this study, dental cavities were detected and analysed using periapical radiographs to evaluate the accuracy of the Faster R‐CNN algorithm. Because these three caries were derived from the oral panoramic images, we designed You Only Look Once Version 3 (YOLOv3) as a U‐shaped network with a large‐scale axial attention module. We also compare the effectiveness of YOLOv3's segmentation to that of other industrial standards. Experiments show that our proposed method, Fast R‐CNN–YOLOv3, achieves higher accuracy in segmenting the three distinct caries level. The proposed model (R‐CNN–YOLOv3) achieved an effective result with a precision of 97.183%.
Marine radar monitoring IoT system and case study of target detection based on PPI images
Authors: Zhang Qiming , Li Yang , Guo Chenguang , Yin Shibo , Ma Lin , Zhu Yunrong
Published: May 2023

To ensure the ship navigation safety, it is necessary to detect the targets in the background of sea clutter around the ship. The most commonly used target detection equipments for ship navigation are marine radar and automatic identification system (AIS) device. However, marine radar echoes are often mixed with multiple clutter, and weak targets are not always equipped with AIS device, neither provides AIS information with low accuracy, leading to difficulty with target detection. Moreover, existing marine monitoring systems are accustomed to using the traditional information fusion methods for target detection, and the accuracy of identifying the weak targets is relatively low. To make full use of radar echo and AIS information and improve the accuracy of target detection, a Marine radar monitoring Internet of Things system is proposed, in which marine radars work in both scanning and staring modes. By adopting image segmentation and deep learning methods, the proposed design can enable accurate perception of weak target detection based on plan‐position indicator (PPI) images. A case study based on the selected X‐band radar datasets shows that the proposed design can achieve high target identification accuracy.
Genetic algorithm‐based price and warranty optimization in software systems
Authors: Arora Rajat , Tandon Abhishek , Aggarwal Anu G. , Mittal Rubina
Published: May 2023

Owing to increasing competition, the marketing of commercial software products is a challenging task. Diverse marketing strategies are adopted to tap the huge market share. Among these, pricing and warranty are the most significant ones. The warranty policies organizations adopt usually have two dimensions: duration and effort spent during the warranty phase. In this paper, two variables are broadly taken: testing, which is an essential phase during software development, and warranty, which is a crucial component of after‐sales service. Here, we will formulate an optimization problem where returns and expenses will be influenced by price, testing resources spent, the duration for which testing is done, warranty duration and effort spent during warranty for the software product. The product sales are assumed to follow a Stochastic Bass model based on Non‐Homogeneous Poisson Process (NHPP). A free on‐site support warranty with an upper limit on duration and effort covers the 2D failure process. The numerical illustration is presented wherein profit is maximized by conjointly optimizing five variables, that is price, testing duration, testing effort, warranty duration and warranty effort. This study emphasizes on application of a popular soft computing, metaheuristic technique named genetic algorithm (GA) to solve an optimization problem for a software system. The solution to the Optimization problem is obtained using the GA tool in MATLAB. The results obtained have relevance in the industry for finding optimal values of significant variables before the release of newly developed software products to the ultimate client. The concept discussed in this paper has diverse applications in computer engineering, software and hardware industry.
Thermodynamic and kinetic analysis of the LAO binding protein and its isolated domains reveal non‐additivity in stability, folding and function
Authors: Vergara Renan , Berrocal Tania , Juárez Mejía Eva Isela , Romero‐Romero Sergio , Velázquez‐López Isabel , Pulido Nancy O. , López Sanchez Haven A. , Silva Daniel‐Adriano , Costas Miguel , Rodríguez‐Romero Adela , Rodríguez‐Sotres Rogelio , Sosa‐Peinado Alejandro , Fernández‐Velasco D. Alejandro
Published: May 2023

Substrate‐binding proteins (SBPs) are used by organisms from the three domains of life for transport and signalling. SBPs are composed of two domains that collectively trap ligands with high affinity and selectivity. To explore the role of the domains and the integrity of the hinge region between them in the function and conformation of SBPs, here, we describe the ligand binding, conformational stability and folding kinetics of the Lysine Arginine Ornithine (LAO) binding protein from Salmonella thiphimurium and constructs corresponding to its two independent domains. LAO is a class II SBP formed by a continuous and a discontinuous domain. Contrary to the expected behaviour based on their connectivity, the discontinuous domain shows a stable native‐like structure that binds l‐arginine with moderate affinity, whereas the continuous domain is barely stable and shows no detectable ligand binding. Regarding folding kinetics, studies of the entire protein revealed the presence of at least two intermediates. While the unfolding and refolding of the continuous domain exhibited only a single intermediate and simpler and faster kinetics than LAO, the folding mechanism of the discontinuous domain was complex and involved multiple intermediates. These findings suggest that in the complete protein the continuous domain nucleates folding and that its presence funnels the folding of the discontinuous domain avoiding nonproductive interactions. The strong dependence of the function, stability and folding pathway of the lobes on their covalent association is most likely the result of the coevolution of both domains as a single unit.
Seasonal patterns in the structure of the fish larvae assemblages in the lower Amazon River
Authors: Cajado Ruineris A. , Zacardi Diego M. , Arantes Caroline C. , Oliveira Lucas S. , Silva Fabíola K. S. , Andrade Marcelo C.
Published: May 2023

This study assessed the phenology and functional structure of parental stocks of fish larvae, and evaluated how the species modulate their reproductive activities as a function of natural hydrological regimes in the lower Amazon River, Brazil.

Larvae were collected using conical plankton nets monthly over two hydrological cycles between January and December 2013, and between May 2017 and April 2018. The collections were conducted around an alluvial island located near the municipality of Santarém, Pará, Brazil. After identification, individuals were classified into four functional groups (e.g., life‐history strategy, feeding habits, type of migration, and swimming‐performance/microhabitat‐use in the water column) based on species traits. The relationships between seasonal hydrology, environmental variables and larval assemblage structure were evaluated using multivariate analyses.

A total of 31,347 fish larvae were collected, from nine taxonomic orders, 26 families, 40 genera and 53 species. The larval assemblages showed highly variable taxonomic and functional composition between different phases of the hydrological cycle (rising water, high water, receding water and low water) and were strongly influenced by environmental variables. Fish reproductive phenology in the lower Amazon is complex and distributed among the hydrological phases. The different ecological characteristics allow the species to withstand specific environmental conditions during each phase.

Changes in the structure of larval assemblages indicate that hydrological variability is a key ecological factor influencing the reproductive dynamics of fish and reflects adaptive strategies used to reduce interspecific competition for space and food, maximising recruitment. The variation of fish reproduction across the hydrological cycle that we observed is a result of different ecological characteristics enabling species and functional groups to adapt to environmental conditions of each phase.
Thermal Conduction Heating for a 125 ft Deep TCE Source—Multiple Lines of Evidence for Verification of Remedial Goals
Authors: Crownover Chad , Thomas Chris , Boulos Mark , Glass Robert , Crisp Gregory , Heron Gorm , Kennington Bruce S. , Tarmann Scott , Hidalgo Luis
Published: May 2023

This paper describes thermal conduction heating of a trichloroethylene (TCE) source zone within vadose zone soils consisting of glacial till at depths of 50 to 125 ft below an active manufacturing facility. The performance objectives and metrics used to determine remediation success are presented. Access limitations inside the facility prevented traditional spatial soil confirmation sampling, which made performance assessment a unique challenge. Instead, the project team developed an approach utilizing multiple lines of evidence to document remedy completeness. These lines of evidence included achievement of target temperatures within the treatment volume, demonstration of asymptotic vapor concentrations extracted from the treatment volume, achieving modeled energy input goals, and verifying TCE concentrations in post‐treatment soil samples collected at the few accessible locations within the operational facility. The treatment volume was divided into three discrete treatment areas or heating groups, each constructed and heated independently in order to meet an aggressive project schedule. Additionally, each line of evidence was required to be met in each group. After approximately 283 days of heating, temperatures exceeded 90 °C at 95% of the temperature monitoring points, TCE levels had diminished to asymptotic levels in the recovered vapors, and mass removal rates from the treatment volume declined to minimal levels. Confirmatory soil sample results indicated that average TCE concentrations achieved were more than an order of magnitude below the remedial goal of 1 mg/kg.
Efficacy and safety of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in patients (≥80 years of age) with atrial fibrillation: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kang Fengguang , Su Lijun , Fan Shuke , Lv Lifen , Luo Biru
Published: May 2023

Findings of prior studies about the efficacy and safety of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients (≥80 years of age) with atrial fibrillation (AF) are controversial. So we performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of NOACs versus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in patients (≥80 years of age) with AF. A systematic review of PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science and Chinese BioMedical databases was conducted until 1 October 2022. Studies reporting the effects and safety of NOACs versus warfarin in patients (≥80 years of age) with AF were included. Two authors independently performed study selection and data extraction. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus or through an independent third reviewer. Data were synthesised according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guidelines. We identified 15 studies providing data of 70 446 participants (≥80 years of age) suffering from AF. According to the meta‐analysis (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval, CI)), NOACs conferred better efficacy profile than VKAs in stroke and systemic embolism (0.8 (0.73–0.88)) and all‐cause mortality (0.61 (0.57–0.65)). Otherwise, NOACs conferred a better safety profile than VKAs in major bleeding (0.76 (0.70–0.83)) and intracranial haemorrhage (ICH; 0.57 (0.47–0.68)). In conclusion, for patients (≥80 years of age) with AF, the risks of stroke and systemic embolism, all‐cause mortality, were lower in NOACs compared to warfarin. The risks of major bleeding and ICH were also lower in NOACs compared to warfarin. NOACs showed better efficacy and safety than warfarin.
Hacking Directional Dependency in Research Design for EU Studies
Authors: Exadaktylos Theofanis , Lynggaard Kennet
Published: May 2023

EU studies extend into political science, political theory, public and foreign policy analysis, and international relations. The field's diversity speaks to different ontological, epistemological and methodological traditions and research practices. How the EU is conceived as a political reality and entity (ontology) tends to shape how researchers substantiate knowledge production about EU affairs (epistemology) and the way they uncover this knowledge (methodology), alongside choosing research methods and data. We argue that a ‘directional dependency’ exists between research ontology, epistemology, methodology and design. Using a meta‐analysis, we review EU politics research, mapping out directional dependencies in research design; how the paths operate; and deviations from those paths. We explore damaging effects of the research design process, evaluating how much this trap informs research in principle or in practice. We find that while in‐principle directional traps exist, research can be trapped to in‐practice dependencies, limiting the scope of innovation in the field.
A new species of the conger eel genus Macrocephenchelys from deep waters of the Arabian Sea
Authors: Kodeeswaran Paramasivam , Smith David. G. , Ajith Kumar Thipramalai Thangappan Pillai , Sarkar Uttam Kumar
Published: May 2023

A new species of the genus Macrocephenchelys is described herein based on a single specimen collected from the deep‐sea trawl landing at Kalamukku fish landing centre, Kerala coast, Arabian Sea. The new species is distinguished by having a dorsal‐fin origin behind the middle of pectoral fin, a larger head, shorter trunk, larger gill opening, dorsal surface of body with dark‐brown colour and ventral surface of head and belly with numerous patches of melanophores before anus, vertebrae 14‐30‐151. The new species shares most of the characteristics with Macrocephenchelys brevirostris but differs from it by having a more anterior dorsal‐fin origin (vs. over the tip or slightly behind the pectoral‐fin tip), larger head [15.3% total length (TL) vs. 10.5%–13.9% TL, 53.2% pre‐anal length (PAL) vs. 35.8%–47.6% PAL], shorter trunk length (13.6% TL vs. 14.4%–20.6% TL, 47.3% PAL vs. 52.4%–66.2% PAL); further it shows 7.9%–8.1% genetic divergence from the sequences of M. brevirostris.
Identifying and testing the probability distribution of earthfill dam breach parameters for probabilistic dam breach modeling
Authors: da Silva Alexandre Ângelo Carmo Luiz , Eleutério Julian Cardoso
Published: May 2023

The main goal of this study is to identify the probability distribution of earthfill dam breach parameters using a dam failures database (3861 observations). This work looks to fill the lack of studies observed, using an extensive database instead of empirical models, plausible values, or small databases. It is, expected that this will contribute to the development of probabilistic dam breach inundation maps instead of deterministic mapping. Four parameters were selected: (i) side slope, (ii) height, (iii) width, and (iv) formation time. To identify the best‐fit distributions, a correlation analysis was performed and a comparative analysis was undertaken by groups related to dam and failure properties such as dam type, material erodibility, magnitude, failure mode, and others. These steps defined samples with 33–311 observations. The results demonstrate that dam breach parameters might be considered independent of each other and are affected by factors such as side slope by failure mode and bottom width by dam shape. The probabilistic case study indicated that deterministic dam breach models predominantly produce conservative results of breach peak outflow.
Prevalence of gastrointestinal malignancy in non‐anemic iron deficiency and significance for endoscopic screening: A Western Australian multicenter cohort study
Authors: Hodges Samantha , Attree Chloe , Picardo Sherman , Faithfull Tiffany , McElholm Adrian , Ragunath Krish
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim

There is a paucity of evidence regarding non‐anemic iron deficiency as a predictor for colorectal cancer and therefore the indication for endoscopic evaluation. This study explores the rates of malignancy in adults with iron deficiency with and without anemia.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter diagnostic cohort study was conducted across two Australian health services. All cases that underwent both esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy between September 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019, for the investigation of iron deficiency were included, and the cohort was divided into anemic and non‐anemic arms. Multivariate binomial logistic regression was performed to establish clinical characteristics associated with neoplasia.

Results

Five hundred eighty‐four patients underwent endoscopic evaluation over a 16‐month period. There was a significantly higher rate of malignancy in the iron deficiency anemia arm as compared with those without anemia (8.76% vs 1.20%, P < 0.01). Gastrointestinal pathology to account for iron deficiency was identified in > 60% of the total cohort. The presence of anemia (odds ratio [OR] 6.87, P < 0.01) and male gender (OR 3.01, P = 0.01) were significant predictors of malignancy.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that anemic iron deficiency confers a significantly greater risk of gastrointestinal cancer compared with non‐anemic iron deficiency. Additionally, over 60% of patients had gastrointestinal pathology to account for iron deficiency overall, supporting the need to perform baseline endoscopy in patients with iron deficiency.
MaBEL1 regulates banana fruit ripening by activating cell wall and starch degradation‐related genes
Authors: Song Zunyang , Zhu Xiaoyang , Lai Xiuhua , Chen Hangcong , Wang Lihua , Yao Yulin , Chen Weixin , Li Xueping
Published: May 2023

Banana is a typical subtropical fruit, sensitive to chilling injuries and prone to softening disorder. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of the softening disorder caused by cold stress remain obscure. Herein, we found that BEL1‐LIKE HOMEODOMAIN transcription factor 1 (MaBEL1) and its associated proteins regulate the fruit softening and ripening process. The transcript and protein levels of MaBEL1 were up‐regulated with fruit ripening but severely repressed by the chilling stress. Moreover, the MaBEL1 protein interacted directly with the promoters of the cell wall and starch degradation‐related genes, such as MaAMY3, MaXYL32, and MaEXP‐A8. The transient overexpression of MaBEL1 alleviated fruit chilling injury and ripening disorder caused by cold stress and promoted fruit softening and ripening of “Fenjiao” banana by inducing ethylene production and starch and cell wall degradation. The accelerated ripening was also validated by the ectopic overexpression in tomatoes. Conversely, MaBEL1‐silencing aggravated the chilling injury and ripening disorder and repressed fruit softening and ripening by inhibiting ethylene production and starch and cell wall degradation. MaABI5‐like and MaEBF1, the two positive regulators of the fruit softening process, interacted with MaBEL1 to enhance the promoter activity of the starch and cell wall degradation‐related genes. Moreover, the F‐box protein MaEBF1 does not modulate the degradation of MaBEL1, which regulates the transcription of MaABI5‐like protein. Overall, we report a novel MaBEL1‐MaEBF1‐MaABI5‐like complex system that mediates the fruit softening and ripening disorder in “Fenjiao” bananas caused by cold stress.
Owner‐Occupied Housing, Inflation, and Monetary Policy
Authors: HILL ROBERT J. , STEURER MIRIAM , WALTL SOFIE R.
Published: May 2023

Owner‐occupied housing (OOH) is currently excluded from the harmonized index of consumer prices (HICP) in Europe. Using microlevel data for Sydney and aggregated data for the United States, France, and Germany, we compare the impact of alternative treatments of OOH on measured inflation. We recommend including OOH in the HICP using a simplified version of the user‐cost method. This would improve the harmonization of the HICP, help close the credibility gap between measured inflation and public perceptions of it, and allow the ECB to lean against a housing boom without departing from its inflation target.
A Theory of Intrinsic Inflation Persistence
Authors: KUROZUMI TAKUSHI , ZANDWEGHE WILLEM VAN
Published: May 2023

We propose a novel theory of intrinsic inflation persistence by introducing trend inflation and Kimball (1995)‐type aggregators of individual differentiated goods and labor in a model with staggered price‐ and wage‐setting. Under nonzero trend inflation, the non‐CES (constant elasticity of substitution) aggregator of goods and staggered price‐setting give rise to a variable real marginal cost of goods aggregation, which becomes a driver of inflation. This marginal cost consists of an aggregate of the goods' relative prices, which depends on past inflation, thereby generating intrinsic inertia in inflation. Likewise, the non‐CES aggregator of labor and staggered wage‐setting lead to intrinsic inertia in wage inflation, which enhances the persistence of price inflation. With the theory we show that inflation exhibits a persistent, hump‐shaped response to monetary policy shocks. We also demonstrate that lower trend inflation reduces inflation persistence and that a credible disinflation leads to a gradual decline in inflation and a fall in output.
Pseudo‐pseudo Meigs syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus misdiagnosed as pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome: A case report
Authors: He Jiaqi , Li Jinke , Fan Bao , Yan Liya , Ouyang Ling
Published: May 2023

Symptoms of pelvic masses, elevated serum CA125 levels, massive ascites, and pleural effusion in female patients are usually associated with malignancy. Some benign ovarian tumors or other nonmalignant tumors may also produce similar symptoms, called Meigs syndrome or pseudo‐Meigs' syndrome, which should be one of the differential diagnoses. However, there is an extremely rare form of SLE called pseudo‐pseudo Meigs syndrome (PPMS), which may also present with the above symptoms, but is not associated with any of the tumors. In this paper, we report a case of a 47‐year‐old woman who presented with abdominal distention. The patient was found to have elevated serum CA125 levels to 182.9 U/mL before the operation. Her PET‐CT suggested a large heterogeneous mass in the pelvis measuring 8.2 × 5.8 cm with a large amount of ascites. She was initially diagnosed with ovarian cancer and underwent exploratory laparotomy. Pathology of the surgical specimen revealed a uterine leiomyoma. Two months after discharge, the patient's ascites reappeared along with recurrent intestinal obstruction. After ascites and serological tests, she was eventually diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and received systemic hormonal therapy.
The relationship between mental health, sleep quality and the immunogenicity of COVID‐19 vaccinations
Authors: Wagenhäuser Isabell , Reusch Julia , Gabel Alexander , Mees Juliane , Nyawale Helmut , Frey Anna , Lâm Thiên‐Trí , Schubert‐Unkmeir Alexandra , Dölken Lars , Kurzai Oliver , Frantz Stefan , Petri Nils , Krone Manuel , Krone Lukas B.
Published: May 2023

Sleep modulates the immune response, and sleep loss can reduce vaccine immunogenicity; vice versa, immune responses impact sleep. We aimed to investigate the influence of mental health and sleep quality on the immunogenicity of COVID‐19 vaccinations and, conversely, of COVID‐19 vaccinations on sleep quality. The prospective CoVacSer study monitored mental health, sleep quality and Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2‐Spike IgG titres in a cohort of 1082 healthcare workers from 29 September 2021 to 19 December 2022. Questionnaires and blood samples were collected before, 14 days, and 3 months after the third COVID‐19 vaccination, as well as in 154 participants before and 14 days after the fourth COVID‐19 vaccination. Healthcare workers with psychiatric disorders had slightly lower Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2‐Spike IgG levels before the third COVID‐19 vaccination. However, this effect was mediated by higher median age and body mass index in this subgroup. Antibody titres following the third and fourth COVID‐19 vaccinations (“booster vaccinations”) were not significantly different between subgroups with and without psychiatric disorders. Sleep quality did not affect the humoral immunogenicity of the COVID‐19 vaccinations. Moreover, the COVID‐19 vaccinations did not impact self‐reported sleep quality. Our data suggest that in a working population neither mental health nor sleep quality relevantly impact the immunogenicity of COVID‐19 vaccinations, and that COVID‐19 vaccinations do not cause a sustained deterioration of sleep, suggesting that they are not a precipitating factor for insomnia. The findings from this large‐scale real‐life cohort study will inform clinical practice regarding the recommendation of COVID‐19 booster vaccinations for individuals with mental health and sleep problems.
A “good fit”: Client sorting among nonprofit, private, and pro bono immigration attorneys
Authors: Yu Lilly
Published: May 2023

Existing scholarship finds that having an attorney in immigration legal proceedings increases the chances of a favorable outcome. This work, however, often acknowledges that the representation effect is underexplained: selection may explain outcomes, and variation among attorneys is difficult to assess. Through 103 interviews with attorneys who practice immigration law in three organizational environments (nonprofit legal services, private firms, and corporate law firm pro bono programs) in two East Coast areas, this paper argues that attorneys' sorting of clients between different types of legal organizations helps explain the representation effect. Attorneys define what type of case is a “good fit” for their representation, selecting cases they think they can help increase the probability of a favorable outcome. However, what they define as a “good fit” varies by attorneys' practice environments, and centers not only on the facts or characteristics of a client and their case, but also attorneys' organizational constraints. By documenting the central role of practice environment variation and its organizational constraints on attorneys' case selection, this paper helps explain the representation effect and its implications for increasing vulnerable immigrants' access to legal representation in the United States.
Attitudes, beliefs and social norms regarding infant and young child feeding among Nigerian mothers, fathers and grandmothers across time
Authors: Schnefke Courtney H. , Flax Valerie L. , Ubanmhen Fred , Alayon Silvia , Bose Sujata , Daniel Obinna , Grimes Kathryn E. L. , Allotey Diana , Seiger Emily R. , Arije Olujide
Published: May 2023

Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) interventions in low‐resource countries mainly target pregnant women and mothers of young children; however, fathers and grandmothers also influence IYCF practices. We conducted focus group discussions with mothers, fathers and grandmothers of young children across three time points in areas where an IYCF social and behaviour change intervention was implemented in Nigeria to explore differences by participant type and shifts over time in attitudes, beliefs and social norms related to breastfeeding and dietary diversity (DD). Overall, across time points, we found more discrepancies in attitudes, beliefs and social norms for early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among different participant types than for DD. Although most participants agreed EIBF and EBF are good practices, mothers believed this more strongly than fathers and grandmothers; however, at endline, a shift towards acceptance of EIBF and EBF appeared among fathers and grandmothers. Across time points, all participant types acknowledged the nutritional and health benefits of green leafy vegetables and animal‐source foods but described various barriers to feeding them to children. Across time points, all participant types also highlighted the importance of health workers and antenatal visits as important sources of IYCF knowledge and facilitators to following recommended practices. Insights from this study highlight the importance of including key influencers of IYCF practices in qualitative research.
The Negotiated Desecuritization Of Turkey in Saudi Foreign Policy
Authors: El Berni Hazal Muslu
Published: May 2023

Saudi‐Turkey relations hit one of their lowest points due to the Arab uprisings and the regional shock of the Gulf crisis. The tension resulted from, and in turn exacerbated, a process of securitization of Saudi discourse, whereby officials labeled Turkey as a threat. But after three and a half years of the Gulf crisis, the Al‐Ula accords allowed reconciliation among the regional states and opened the way for the construction of new understandings based on diplomacy, tolerance of differences on regional and domestic security, and respect of sovereignty. This spurred Saudi policy makers to de‐securitize their discourse concerning Turkey—that is, to talk of it not as a threat, but as a potential partner. This process continues to develop gradually through cooperation on economics and investment, but it has required time to re‐establish confidence among Saudi decision makers. This article analyzes the discourses of Saudi leaders and policy makers and shows how they affected Saudi Arabia's relations with Turkey, both negatively and positively.
Chronic kidney disease awareness and its determinants in middle‐aged and older Japanese adults: Observations from a 5‐year follow‐up of the Uonuma cohort study
Authors: Kabasawa Keiko , Ito Yumi , Iino Noriaki , Nakamura Kazutoshi , Sawada Norie , Tsugane Shoichiro , Tanaka Junta , Narita Ichiei
Published: May 2023

Aim

Despite global efforts in public health campaigns concerning chronic kidney disease (CKD), awareness of the condition remains low. We evaluated CKD awareness and related factors to identify an effective way to raise awareness.

Methods

This study assessed laboratory‐confirmed CKD and self‐reported CKD using a population‐based cohort (baseline from 2012 to 2014, age ≥40 years) in Niigata, Japan. Self‐reported CKD was obtained at a 5‐year follow‐up survey and laboratory‐confirmed CKD was diagnosed when an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or dipstick urinary protein ≥1+ was observed in at least two health check‐ups during the 5‐year period. CKD awareness was defined as a match between laboratory‐confirmed and self‐reported CKD. The association between characteristics and CKD awareness was tested by multivariable logistic regression analysis with adjustment for eGFR and other potential confounders.

Results

The analytic population comprised 7472 individuals (mean age, 65.6 years old, 51.2% women) and 19.4% with laboratory‐confirmed CKD. The sensitivity and specificity of the survey question concerning self‐reported CKD were 12.4% and 98.2%, respectively. Among the participants with laboratory‐confirmed CKD, significant factors associated with CKD awareness were male sex (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.81 [1.27, 2.59]), a history of urinary tract stone (1.86 [1.06, 3.26]), age (0.97 [0.95, 0.99]), and married status (0.66 [0.44, 0.99]).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that known lifestyle‐related diseases that could cause CKD are not associated with CKD awareness independently of kidney function and that a sex‐dependent approach may help to raise CKD awareness in community‐dwelling Japanese adults.