bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Equivariant Generative Framework for Molecular Graph-Structure Co-Design
Authors: Zhang Zaixi , Liu Qi , Lee Chee-Kong , Hsieh Chang-Yu , Chen Enhong
Published: April 2023

Designing molecules with desirable physiochemical properties and functionalities is a long-standing challenge in chemistry, material science, and drug discovery. Recently, machine learning-based generative models have emerged as promising approaches forde novomolecule design. However, further refinement of methodology is highly desired as most existing methods lack unified modeling of 2D topology and 3D geometry information and fail to effectively learn the structure-property relationship for molecule design. Here we present MolCode, a roto-translation equivariant generative framework forMolecular graph-structureCo-design. In MolCode, 3D geometric information empowers the molecular 2D graph generation, which in turn helps guide the prediction of molecular 3D structure. Extensive experimental results show that MolCode outperforms previous methods on a series of challenging tasks includingde novomolecule design, targeted molecule discovery, and structure-based drug design. Particularly, MolCode not only consistently generates valid (99.95% Validity) and diverse (98.75% Uniqueness) molecular graphs/structures with desirable properties, but also generate drug-like molecules with high affinity to target proteins (61.8% high affinity ratio), which demonstrates MolCode’s potential applications in material design and drug discovery. Our extensive investigation reveals that the 2D topology and 3D geometry contain intrinsically complementary information in molecule design, and provides new insights into machine learning-based molecule representation and generation.
Neural Basis Of Sound-Symbolic Pseudoword-Shape Correspondences
Authors: Barany Deborah A. , Lacey Simon , Matthews Kaitlyn L. , Nygaard Lynne C. , Sathian K.
Published: April 2023

Non-arbitrary mapping between the sound of a word and its meaning, termed sound symbolism, is commonly studied through crossmodal correspondences between sounds and visual shapes, e.g., auditory pseudowords, like ‘mohloh’ and ‘kehteh’, are matched to rounded and pointed visual shapes, respectively. Here, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during a crossmodal matching task to investigate the hypotheses that sound symbolism (1) involves language processing; (2) depends on multisensory integration; (3) reflects embodiment of speech in hand movements. These hypotheses lead to corresponding neuroanatomical predictions of crossmodal congruency effects in (1) the language network; (2) areas mediating multisensory processing, including visual and auditory cortex; (3) regions responsible for sensorimotor control of the hand and mouth. Right-handed participants (n= 22) encountered audiovisual stimuli comprising a simultaneously presented visual shape (rounded or pointed) and an auditory pseudoword (‘mohloh’ or ‘kehteh’) and indicated via a right-hand keypress whether the stimuli matched or not. Reaction times were faster for congruent than incongruent stimuli. Univariate analysis showed that activity was greater for the congruent compared to the incongruent condition in the left primary and association auditory cortex, and left anterior fusiform/parahippocampal gyri. Multivoxel pattern analysis revealed higher classification accuracy for the audiovisual stimuli when congruent than when incongruent, in the pars opercularis of the left inferior frontal (Broca’s area), the left supramarginal, and the right mid-occipital gyri. These findings, considered in relation to the neuroanatomical predictions, support the first two hypotheses and suggest that sound symbolism involves both language processing and multisensory integration.

HIGHLIGHTS

fMRI investigation of sound-symbolic correspondences between auditory pseudowords and visual shapes

Faster reaction times for congruent than incongruent audiovisual stimuli

Greater activation in auditory and visual cortices for congruent stimuli

Higher classification accuracy for congruent stimuli in language and visual areas

Sound symbolism involves language processing and multisensory integration
Paired yeast one-hybrid assays to detect DNA-binding cooperativity and antagonism across transcription factors
Authors: Berenson Anna , Lane Ryan , Soto Luis , Patel Mahir , Ciausu Cosmin , Li Zhaorong , Chen Yilin , Shah Sakshi , Santoso Clarissa , Liu Xing , Spirohn Kerstin , Hao Tong , Hill David E. , Vidal Marc , Fuxman Bass Juan I.
Published: April 2023

Cooperativity and antagonism between transcription factors (TFs) can drastically modify their binding to regulatory DNA elements. While mapping these relationships between TFs is important for understanding their context-specific functions, existing approaches either rely on DNA binding motif predictions, interrogate one TF at a time, or study individual TFs in parallel. Here, we introduce paired yeast one-hybrid (pY1H) assays to detect cooperativity and antagonism across hundreds of TF-pairs at DNA regions of interest. We provide evidence that a wide variety of TFs are subject to modulation by other TFs in a DNA sequence-specific manner. We also demonstrate that TF-TF relationships are often affected by alternative isoform usage, and identify cooperativity and antagonism between human TFs and viral proteins. pY1H assays provide a broadly applicable framework to study how different functional relationships affect protein occupancy at regulatory DNA regions.
Assessing an aqueous flow cell designed for in situ crystal growth under X-ray nanotomography and effects of radiolysis products
Authors: Yuan Ke , Starchenko Vitalii , Rampal Nikhil , Yang Fengchang , Xiao Xianghui , Stack Andrew G.
Published: April 2023

Nucleation and growth of minerals has broad implications in the geological, environmental and materials sciences. Recent developments in fast X-ray nanotomography have enabled imaging of crystal growth in solutions in situ with a resolution of tens of nanometres, far surpassing optical microscopy. Here, a low-cost, custom-designed aqueous flow cell dedicated to the study of heterogeneous nucleation and growth of minerals in aqueous environments is shown. To gauge the effects of radiation damage from the imaging process on growth reactions, radiation-induced morphological changes of barite crystals (hundreds of nanometres to ∼1 µm) that were pre-deposited on the wall of the flow cell were investigated. Under flowing solution, minor to major crystal dissolution was observed when the tomography scan frequency was increased from every 30 min to every 5 min (with a 1 min scan duration). The production of reactive radicals from X-ray induced water radiolysis and decrease of pH close to the surface of barite are likely responsible for the observed dissolution. The flow cell shown here can possibly be adopted to study a wide range of other chemical reactions in solutions beyond crystal nucleation and growth where the combination of fast flow and fast scan can be used to mitigate the radiation effects.
Sustainable halal food supply chain management in a small rentier halal market
Authors: Ab Talib Mohamed Syazwan , Zulfakar Mohd Hafiz
Published: April 2023

Purpose

There is limited knowledge of the sustainable halal food supply management in Brunei Darussalam (Brunei), although it is reputable in the halal economy and advocates the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this paper highlights issues faced in a small, rentier halal market and proposes sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) initiatives for halal-certified food companies in Brunei.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws data from published academic research and employs a normative and narrative assessment of SSCM and halal supply chain literature.

Findings

Four normative SSCM initiatives and propositions that could be implemented by Brunei halal-certified food businesses in achieving the SDGs are highlighted: responsible sourcing, environmental purchasing, sustainable packaging and green transportation.

Practical implications

This viewpoint paper provides a basis for achieving the “Brunei Vision 2035” through a sustainable supply chain lens that may increase well-being and develop a productive and sustainable economy. It also lays a foundation for realising the SDGs, specifically Goal 12 of Sustainable Consumption and Production.

Originality/value

The dedicated attention to smaller halal markets, such as Brunei, would enrich the literature, reveal unforeseen issues or address gaps in the domains of SSCM and halal food supply chains.
Consumer-based brand equity of South African luxury fashion brands
Authors: Appiah-Nimo Kenneth , Muthambi Amukelani , Devey Richard
Published: April 2023

Purpose

South Africa is the leading market for luxury goods in Africa – a fact evident from the statistics on luxury retail and the expanding footprint of international and local luxury brands. In a market that is dominated by prominent international brands, indigenous South African brands are seldom the subject of empirical research. This study addresses this gap by analysing the consumer-based brand equity (CBBE) of South African luxury fashion brands and its outcomes on the purchase/repurchase intention of consumers of South African luxury fashion brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted quantitative research methods and utilized survey questionnaires to acquire data from 130 respondents. Structural equation modelling was used in testing the proposed alternative hypotheses.

Findings

The study affirmed the relevance of Aaker's (1991) CBBE model for luxury goods in the emerging economy of South Africa. It established perceived quality and behavioural loyalty as significant predictors of brand equity while affirming the prevalence of hedonism and behavioural loyalty in South Africa's luxury fashion market.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size and the limited geographic scope of the study had a significant adverse impact on the broad application of the study's outcome. Furthermore, Aaker's (1991) CBBE model, while adequate, may have diminished the probability of a nuanced outcome.

Originality/value

This study advances the frontiers of interdisciplinary research by applying the marketing framework of CBBE to fashion studies in South Africa. The validated measurement scale, which emphasises the relevance of hedonism and behavioural loyalty in South Africa, may be useful for a similar study on luxury fashion brands in other emerging economies.
Citizenship as mental health. A study protocol for a randomised trial of awareness interventions for mental health professionals
Authors: Eiroa-Orosa Francisco José
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how mental health is tied to citizenship, and to help professionals understand mental health in the context of social rights and responsibilities, to move towards a right-based practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The author will explore the concept of citizenship together with mental health service users’, relatives’ and professionals’ organisations. Using a qualitative analysis of this exploration, this study will develop, implement and evaluate, using a randomised design, awareness interventions with mental health professionals.

Findings

The author will use thematic analysis for qualitative data and multilevel mixed-effects linear models to evaluate the effect of the awareness interventions.

Social implications

The results of the project will enable conversations between mental health professionals, relatives and service users that might help them understand mental health as part of citizenship.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this will be the first controlled study of standardised citizenship-based awareness interventions for mental health professionals.
International alliance networks, expansion modes and coopetition
Authors: Bolivar Luis Miguel , Casanueva Cristóbal , Castro Abancéns Ignacio
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) strive to expand into new markets either by exploiting their resource base or by gaining access to partner companies that own the required resources. Thus, companies face the compete–cooperate–coopete decision. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of MNEs’ networks of interorganisational alliances, and their interaction with resource ownership, and market attractiveness, on the choice of international expansion modes, whether they are sole venture (competitive) or collaboration agreements (cooperative) or both (coopetitive).

Design/methodology/approach

A biprobit model is used to analyse more than 50,000 new international operations by 164 MNEs in a five-year window. A moderation analysis is carried out to reveal the interaction between network centrality, resource ownership and market size.

Findings

The results show the extent to which the competitive–collaborative contradictory forces attenuate each other in different market scenarios. This study’s contribution advances the resolution of the resource allocation dilemma by recognising the conditions for the selection of each expansion mode: sole venture, cooperation and coopetition.

Originality/value

Mainstream international business theory claims that firm’s own resources and transaction outcomes are generally sufficient to explain their international expansion decisions, whereas network and social capital theories focus on the role of relationships and network embeddedness. Both perspectives seem to neglect the fact that firms frequently develop both factors simultaneously. This study bridges these perspectives and reveals the interplay between resource ownership, alliance network centrality and market size for MNEs’ expansion mode choice.
Privacy implications of blockchain systems: a data management perspective
Authors: Xu Heng , Zhang Nan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Privacy scholars appear to struggle in conceptualizing blockchain from a privacy perspective: is it a privacy-enhancing mechanism like differential privacy, a privacy-intruding tool like third-party cookies or a technology orthogonal to the issue of privacy? Blockchain does not seem to neatly fit into any of these buckets that we traditionally use to gauge the privacy implications of information technologies. In this article, the authors argue that blockchain transcends the extant conceptualization of privacy because it modifies the nature of data flow upon which the modern concept of privacy is based.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors introduce a conceptualization of blockchain as a new mechanism for data management. Then, following this conceptualization, the authors present a functional review of blockchain, summarizing the features it provides for the data it manages. This review sets up the discussion of how blockchain redefines data flow by separating the power of collection, access and query of data to different entities. After illustrating how this change regrounds privacy concerns in a blockchain system, the authors conclude with a discussion of the recommendations for future privacy research on blockchain.

Findings

The authors demonstrate that blockchain, by design, separates three core data-centric operations that are assumed to be inextricably linked in the canonical conceptualization of privacy: the collection, access and query of data. Collection means to capture and then store the data; access means to modify or augment the data and query means the ability to test or verify certain properties of the data (e.g. whether a bank account has a zero balance). Traditionally, any entities that collect data can evidently read, modify or query the same data as they wish. With blockchain, however, an entity that stores the data may not be able to modify the data, yet an entity that cannot even read the data may be able to verify certain properties of the data.

Originality/value

Privacy scholars appear to struggle in conceptualizing blockchain from a privacy perspective: is it a privacy-enhancing mechanism like differential privacy, a privacy-intruding tool like third-party cookies or a technology orthogonal to the issue of privacy? In this article, the authors aim to respond to this important question.
Understanding the perceived business obstacles and determinants of credit adoption by textile firms: evidences from World Bank’s enterprises survey
Authors: Singh Sanjeet , Amini Mitra , Jamshed Mohammed , Sharma Hari Prapan , Khan Waseem
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the obstacle in doing business and determinants of credit adoption by the textile enterprises in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on World Bank’s Enterprises Survey, there are 571 enterprises involved in textile business. The enterprises survey has response on wide range of business obstacles which are categorized under three broad categories, namely, access to resource, business regulations and market externalities. Chi-square test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) have been used to examine the significant difference among firm’s profile and perceived business obstacles across the firm size. Furthermore, binary logistic regression model has been applied to explore the determinants of credit adoption by textile enterprises.

Findings

A statistically significant difference has been found in size of firms and legal status nature of establishment, gender of top manager, main product market and credit adoption from financial institutions. Majority of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are sole proprietorship firm while large enterprises are limited partnership firms. Similarly, large enterprises have relatively more female as a top manager and international market for their product. ANOVA reveals equal degree of obstacles in doing textile business across the firm size. The logistic regression coefficient and marginal effects reveal that firm size, main market,gender of owner, number of establishment in the firms positive and significantly affects the credit adoption by 3 textile enterprises.

Practical implications

The study has some policy implications for various stakeholders such as textile business managers and promoters, government, investors and bankers for entrepreneurship development in textile sector. The study suggests that the government should incentivize small- and medium-sized businesses to increase their exports. The results show that despite government efforts to finance SMEs, fewer SMEs are receiving both short- and long-term credit. To help SMEs in the textile industry overcome financial difficulties and expand their main product market to both domestic and international levels, a soft loan should be provided based on the characteristics of textile enterprises.

Originality/value

The present study suggests the evidence-based understanding of textile business environment. The value and uniqueness of this study is to explore an ease of business textile sector using comprehensive enterprises survey data of World Bank.
Selection of infill parameters considering their effects on operational and mechanical performance for material extrusion of CFR-PEEK
Authors: Noh Heena , Park Kijung , Jeon Hyun Woo
Published: April 2023

Purpose

As newer high performance polymers in mechanical properties become available for material extrusion-based additive manufacturing, determining infill parameter settings becomes more important to achieve both operational and mechanical performance of printed outputs. For the material extrusion of carbon fiber reinforced poly-ether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK), this study aims not only to identify the effects of infill parameters on both operational and mechanical performance but also to derive appropriate infill settings through a multicriteria decision-making process considering the conflicting effects.

Design/methodology/approach

A full-factorial experimental design to investigate the effects of two major infill parameters (i.e. infill pattern and density) on each performance measure (i.e. printing time, sample mass, energy consumption and maximum tensile load) is separately performed to derive the best infill settings for each measure. Focusing on energy consumption for operational performance and maximum tensile load for mechanical performance, the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution is further used to identify the most appropriate infill settings given relative preferences on the conflicting performance measures.

Findings

The results show that the honeycomb pattern type with 25% density is consistently identified as the best for the operational performance measures, while the triangular pattern with 100% density is the best for the mechanical performance measure. Moreover, it is suggested that certain ranges of preference weights on operational and mechanical performance can guide the best parameter settings for the overall material extrusion performance of CFR-PEEK.

Originality/value

The findings from this study can help practitioners selectively decide on infill parameters by considering both operational and mechanical aspects and their possible trade-offs.
Widening the lens: towards a more inclusive suffrage story
Authors: Ellsworth Tina M. , Burgard Karen
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illuminate for teachers how the suffrage movement is centered in whiteness. The authors posit that this historical erasure is intentional, and teachers should actively find ways to counter that erasure. This paper positions teachers to ask critical questions of dominant narratives, and have students do the same.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the existence of historical erasure and the absence of Black suffrage stories, the authors sought to build teachers' content base by conducting a historiography of the dominant narrative of the women's suffrage movement. They examined how state standards and popular online archival collections perpetuate the dominant narrative. They provide teachers with a rich content base and include primary sources they could use to teach this content to their students.

Findings

Unsurprising, the Texas and Missouri state standards do little to advance the voices of underrepresented people, especially when it comes to the suffrage movement. Likewise, archival collections are limited by the choice of those who curated the collections. The article presents teachers with lesser known stories of the movement and accompanying primary sources.

Practical implications

Teachers cannot teach what they do not know. So the authors sought to build a teacher's content base so they could tell a more inclusive history. They want to help teachers identify dominant narratives and where historical erasure is happening, and commit to asking critical questions of those narratives and seek to diversity their histories.

Originality/value

This piece is original because much of this content is missing from current history classrooms. In addition, the primary sources and additional resources provided can strengthen a teacher's ability to teach about it.
Geochronology, Mineralogy, and Geochemistry of the Tonsteins from the Permo–Carboniferous Benxi Formation, Ordos Basin, North China Craton
Authors: WANG Luojing , LÜ Dawei , ZHANG Zhihui , HOWER James C. , RAJI Munira , ZHANG Yushuai , SHEN Yangyang , GAO Jie
Published: April 2023

Tonstein layers are found worldwide in the Permo–Carboniferous coal‐bearing strata. This study investigates the geochronology, mineralogy, and geochemistry of four tonstein samples from the Permo–Carboniferous Benxi Formation, Ordos Basin, North China Craton (NCC). The typical features of the studied tonsteins include thin beds, lateral continuity, angular quartz grains, and euhedral zircons with similar U‐Pb ages, indicating a significant pyroclastic origin. In addition, the tonstein samples have low TiO2/Al2O3 ratios (<0.02) and rare earth elements and yttrium (REY) concentrations with obvious negative Eu anomalies, indicating that the tonsteins have a felsic magma origin. Moreover, compared with the mean composition of clay shale, the studied tonsteins are characterized by high concentrations of the elements Nb and Ta, which may affect the concentration of the corresponding elements in surrounding coal seams. The zircon U‐Pb ages of the tonsteins (293.9–298.8 Ma) provide a precise chronological framework on the Benxi Formation in the Ordos Basin, constraining the Gzhelian–Aselian stages. The tonsteins were probably sourced from arc volcanism along the western margin of the NCC during the early Permian, implying that the Alxa Terrane had not amalgamated with the NCC at that time.
Living with dementia in regional Australia: The experience of acute care hospital management from the carer's perspective
Authors: Oorloff Anthea , Nisbet Angel , Lole Lisa
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Family carers play a crucial role in dementia care. As the condition progresses, people with dementia become increasingly dependent on their carers for all areas of daily living. The risk of carer burnout is significant. One of the more stressful events for family carers is when hospital admission is required for the person they care for. Living in regional Australia adds complexity to the experience. Hospital and health services in regional Australia could use a greater understanding of the issues associated with hospital care to inform patient and carer management, improve outcomes for this population and support the goal of ‘ageing in place’.

Objective

To explore the experience of carers of people with dementia in regional Australia when hospital care or treatment was required for the person they provide care for.

Design

Six family carers living in regional Australia participated in this interpretative phenological study. Individual, semistructured interviews were held and transcribed verbatim shortly after. Data analysis occurred via three key processes: reading and highlighting, coding and grouping, which yielded the major themes and subthemes of the study.

Findings

Three major themes and nine subthemes emerged from data analysis. The major themes were: (i) support and supply of specialist care; (ii) travel needs and negotiations; and (iii) empathy and experience make a difference.

Discussion

Findings from this study highlight aspects of care that healthcare providers can address to improve outcomes for patients with dementia and their carers. Carers need opportunities to seek clarification and provide input on care plans. Good communication, involvement and relationship building between healthcare staff and carers are vital to achieving optimal patient outcomes. Staff training supporting understanding of appropriate dementia care is essential for improved patient and carer outcomes.

Conclusion

Factors related to regional location, including lack of specialist care and support, compound carers' challenges. Healthcare provider education on dementia care and dementia‐friendly processes in hospitals will support optimal patient and carers outcomes.
Altered brain activity in diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction revealed by fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation: A resting‐state fMRI study
Authors: Xiang Ziliang , Huang Yingjun , Xu Yan , Liu Xue , Huang Xinfei , Liu Tao , Yang Zhaoxu , Jiang Lin , Chen Yun , Chen Jianhuai
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus is one of the major chronic diseases, which enhances the risk of erectile dysfunction. However, the central pathological mechanisms of erectile dysfunction in diabetes mellitus patients are still unclear.

Methods

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired in 30 type‐2 diabetes mellitus, 31 type‐2 diabetes mellitus with erectile dysfunction patients, and 31 healthy controls. The measure of fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation was calculated and compared among groups.

Results

Differences of fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values were found in the left superior frontal gyrus (medial) and middle temporal gyrus among three groups. Compared with healthy controls group, type‐2 diabetes mellitus group exhibited lower fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values in the left superior frontal gyrus (dorsolateral), anterior cingulate gyrus, calcarine fissure, and increased fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values in the left post‐central gyrus. Compared with healthy controls group, erectile dysfunction with type‐2 diabetes mellitus group exhibited lower fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values in the left superior frontal gyrus (medial), middle temporal gyrus, temporal middle (pole), and increased fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values in the right post‐central gyrus. Compared with type‐2 diabetes mellitus group, erectile dysfunction with type‐2 diabetes mellitus group exhibited increased fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation values in the right median cingulum gyrus and left calcarine fissure.

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction with type‐2 diabetes mellitus patients showed functional changes in brain regions that were closely correlated with sexual dysfunction, which suggested that altered regional brain activity might be related to the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction with type‐2 diabetes mellitus.
Distributional Effects of Freedom and Income on Life Satisfaction: Evidence from East Asian Chinese Societies
Authors: Lim Hock‐Eam , Shaw Daigee , Chen Le‐Yu , Liao Pei‐Shan
Published: April 2023

We estimate the distributional effects of freedom and income on life satisfaction (LS) for East Asian Chinese societies through an ordinal parametric quantile regression approach. The results show that freedom and income exhibit positive and mostly significant effects across societies and LS levels. The freedom effects generally become larger for those at higher LS quantiles. However, the income effects decline as the LS quantile level increases. Thus, one may have a trade‐off between freedom and income without compromising individual LS. The trade‐off of freedom (income) for income (freedom) is more pronounced for people at a lower (higher) LS level.
Sustained‐release deslorelin acetate implants disrupt oestrous cyclicity in the mare
Authors: Joonè CJ , Cavalieri J
Published: April 2023

There is a need for a safe, effective and practical method of oestrus suppression in the mare. The aim of this study was to monitor ovarian activity in mares exposed to either 9.4 or 28.2 mg deslorelin acetate, a GnRH agonist, in the form of a sustained‐release implant. Following oestrus synchronisation, mares were randomly assigned to one of three groups (n = 4 per group) and administered either one (Des1 group; 9.4 mg) or three (Des3 group; 28.2 mg) implants of deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin‐12, Virbac Australia) or one blank implant (Control group; Virbac Australia). Mares underwent weekly blood sampling for 12 weeks following implant placement (Day 0–Day 84), with transrectal palpation and ultrasonography of the reproductive tract at all sampling timepoints except Days 56, 70 and 77. All mares showed baseline serum progesterone concentrations (SPC; ≤1.3 nmol/L or 0.4 ng/ml) on Day 0. Cycling Control mares showed typical oestrous cyclicity characterised by peaks and troughs in SPC over time. Four of eight treated mares demonstrated a sustained elevation in SPC after the initial ovulation after implant placement; SPC declined to baseline levels (Des1 group; 2 mares) or remained elevated (Des3 group; 2 mares) at the final sampling timepoint on Day 84. Oestrous cyclicity was erratic in three of the remaining four treated mares. In total, 87.5% (7 of 8) of treated mares showed atypical oestrous cyclicity after implant placement. These results suggest that deslorelin acetate disrupts oestrous cyclicity in the mare, which warrants further research.
Origins and evolution of biological novelty
Authors: Carscadden Kelly A. , Batstone Rebecca T. , Hauser Frances E.
Published: April 2023

Understanding the origins and impacts of novel traits has been a perennial interest in many realms of ecology and evolutionary biology. Here, we build on previous evolutionary and philosophical treatments of this subject to encompass novelties across biological scales and eco‐evolutionary perspectives. By defining novelties as new features at one biological scale that have emergent effects at other biological scales, we incorporate many forms of novelty that have previously been treated in isolation (such as novelty from genetic mutations, new developmental pathways, new morphological features, and new species). Our perspective is based on the fundamental idea that the emergence of a novelty, at any biological scale, depends on its environmental and genetic context. Through this lens, we outline a broad array of generative mechanisms underlying novelty and highlight how genomic tools are transforming our understanding of the origins of novelty. Lastly, we present several case studies to illustrate how novelties across biological scales and systems can be understood based on common mechanisms of change and their environmental and genetic contexts. Specifically, we highlight how gene duplication contributes to the evolution of new complex structures in visual systems; how genetic exchange in symbiosis alters functions of both host and symbiont, resulting in a novel organism; and how hybridisation between species can generate new species with new niches.
Detection of antibody‐coatedMucor in skin biopsy by direct immunofluorescence
Authors: Brent Ashley A. , Chen Olivia , Eshaq Milad , Lowe Lori , Chan May P.
Published: April 2023

Cutaneous mucormycosis may be caused by direct inoculation or hematogenous spread of mucormycetes in immunocompromised patients. Skin biopsy is characterized by a deep fungal infection with frequent angioinvasion. The fungal hyphae can usually be identified on H&E stain. We report a case of cutaneous angioinvasive mucormycosis in which the fungi were also visualized on direct immunofluorescence. A 57‐year‐old patient with relapsed myelodysplastic syndrome status‐post allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant, diabetes mellitus, and graft‐versus‐host disease presented with painful, palpable, dark‐red to violaceous retiform purpuric plaques. Light microscopy of punch biopsy revealed numerous broad, ribbon‐like, pauci‐septate hyphae in the dermis with angioinvasion, consistent with mucormycosis. Direct immunofluorescence performed on a concurrent biopsy to exclude immune complex vasculitis showed smooth IgG, IgA (weak), IgM (faint), and C3 deposition on the hyphal structures, compatible with antibody‐coated fungi. Tissue culture subsequently confirmed Mucor species. Although mucormycosis was readily diagnosable on routine light microscopy in this case, recognition of the unique phenomenon of antibody‐coated fungi can be crucial when the invasive fungi are sparse or only present in the direct immunofluorescence specimen.
Sequence matters: Total body irradiation (TBI)‐based myeloablative conditioning with post‐transplant cyclophosphamide may reduce the early nonrelapse mortality compared with pretransplant cyclophosphamide plus TBI
Authors: Redondo Sara , García‐Cadenas Irene , Vila Antonio , Esquirol Albert , Portos J. M. , Novelli Silvana , Saavedra Silvana , Moreno Carol , Garrido Ana , Arguello‐Tomas Miguel , Oñate Guadalupe , López‐Pardo Jordi , Caballero Ana‐Carolina , Miqueleiz Sara , Briones Javier , Sierra Jorge , Sancho Gemma , Martino Rodrigo
Published: April 2023

Objectives

High‐dose total body irradiation (TBI) is considered a cornerstone of myeloablative conditioning for allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT). We retrospectively compared the main outcomes of an HLA matched or 1‐allele mismatched related or unrelated allo‐SCT in adult patients affected by acute leukemia (AL) or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Methods

Fifty‐nine patients received cyclophosphamide (Cy)‐TBI (13.5 Gy) and graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis with a calcineurin‐inhibitor plus methrotrexate (CyTBI group) and 28 patients received fludarabine‐TBI (8.8–13.5 Gy) and GVHD prophylaxis with PTCy and tacrolimus (FluTBI‐PTCy group).

Results

Median follow‐up for survivors was 82 and 22 months. The 12‐month probability of overall survival and progression‐free survival were similar (p = .18, p = .7). The incidence of Grades 2–4 and 3–4 acute GVHD, and the incidence of moderate‐to‐severe chronic GVHD were higher in the CyTBI group (p = .02, p < .01and p = .03). Nonrelapse mortality (NRM) at 12 months posttransplant was higher in the CyTBI group (p = 0.05), while the incidence of relapse was similar in both groups (p = 0.7). The number of GVHD‐free and relapse‐free patients without systemic immunosuppression (GRFS) at 1‐year posttransplant was higher in the FluTBI‐PTCy group (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The study confirms the safety and efficacy of a novel FluTBI‐PTCy platform with reduced incidence of severe acute and chronic GVHD, and early improvement of NRM.
Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau and generalised pustular psoriasis: Should they be the same or different entities?
Authors: Chularojanamontri Leena , Rattanakorn Krittaya , Julanon Narachai , Chuamanochan Mati , Griffiths Christopher E. M.
Published: April 2023

Pustular psoriasis is characterised by eruptions of neutrophilic sterile pustules. The European Rare and Severe Psoriasis Expert Network consensus defines pustular psoriasis into three subtypes; generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP), palmoplantar pustulosis and acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH). Mixed forms are categorised according to their predominant features. However, the Japanese Dermatological Association includes ACH under the diagnosis of GPP. This article aims to review the similarities and differences between ACH and GPP. Based on our review, interleukin (IL)‐36RN mutations, the most frequent genetic findings in pustular psoriasis are found most commonly in GPP, followed by ACH. Genotypes of IL‐36RN mutations among GPP patients and ACH patients are different between European and Asian ethnicities. IL‐36 signalling pathway is the main mechanism. Metabolic diseases are common comorbidities and joint involvement can occur in 20.5%–36.4% of both conditions. Associated plaque psoriasis is more common in GPP than in ACH. Generally, ACH, even the generalised type, does not have systemic inflammation whereas GPP can occur with or without systemic inflammation. ACH can occur before, simultaneously, or after the development of GPP. However, response to treatment for GPP and ACH even in the same patients appear to be different. ACH seemed to be more recalcitrant to treatment than GPP but severe flare of GPP can lead to morbidity and mortality. Although GPP and ACH share genotypes and pathogenesis, we believe that ACH should be classified separately from GPP, and not under diagnosis of GPP. Future research is warranted to satisfactorily distinguish the two conditions.
Internationalization policy in Japanese university prospectuses
Authors: Morel Robert C.
Published: April 2023

This paper analyses international student prospectuses from twenty‐two Japanese universities involved in the Top Global University Program (TGUP) to examine how universities in Japan present and understand internationalization. International prospectuses were analysed using qualitative text analysis to generate a series of themes connected to university internationalization. Different categories of TGUP participant universities were compared to better understand the differences between how different participant types present and understand internationalization. The findings suggest that while there are differences between participant types and individual universities, overall, there appears to be a tension between understanding internationalization as an authoritative, university‐centred activity and as a student‐centric activity in which students are active participants. Furthermore, it found that although rankings are an important aspect of the TGUP, few prospectuses mentioned rankings. The paper suggests possible reasons for this omission based on the TGUP participant type. Finally, this study offers insights into how Japanese universities understand internationalization and position themselves as international institutions.
The number of Great Tit mobbers influences the mobbing response of heterospecific birds
Authors: Dutour Mylène , Cordonnier Marion
Published: April 2023

Many species mob predators to drive them away. Mobbing carries personal risk, but the risk of injury or death declines and the likelihood of repelling the predator increases in larger groups. The capacity to evaluate the number of mobbers before joining a mobbing group may be highly beneficial for individuals when deciding to join. Although recent studies have found that birds can use individual vocal discrimination to assess the number of conspecifics involved in initiating mobbing events, it is little known whether birds are able to evaluate the number of heterospecific mobbers. In this study, we investigated whether the number of heterospecifics responding to mobbing calls of Great Tits Parus major was influenced by the number of callers (a mix of Great Tit callers simulated by playbacks and live Great Tits attracted to playbacks, range one to seven callers). The total number of responding heterospecific individuals and species was positively influenced by the total number of callers, with heterospecifics responding more to larger than smaller Great Tit groups. However, these results may be driven by the total number of calls, call overlap and increased noise generated by the additional mobbers, and not the number per se. These findings therefore allow us to assess whether birds are more inclined to join a mobbing group when it consists of more heterospecific callers, but we cannot tell whether birds use individual vocal discrimination to assess the number of heterospecific callers.
Efficacy of imaging techniques for the diagnosis of apical periodontitis: A systematic review
Authors: Hilmi Ali , Patel Shanon , Mirza Kazim , Galicia Johnah C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Apical periodontitis (AP) is a chronic inflammatory response of microbial aetiology. Pathological changes associated with AP may not be visible on radiographic images and may linger without causing any symptoms. Clinicians rely mostly on clinical examination and imaging techniques to establish a diagnosis.

Objectives

The aim of this review was to answer the following question using the PICO format: In the adult human permanent dentition (P), what is the efficacy of diagnostic imaging of the periapical tissues (I) using histopathology as a reference standard (C) in the diagnosis of apical periodontitis, in terms of diagnostic accuracy (O).

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus and Cochrane Library were searched for English articles published through October 2021. At least two independent reviewers evaluated the study design, imaging modality used, histopathological assessment, outcome measures, results and conclusions for each article. The risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2.

Results

The initial search strategy identified 544 articles. Seven articles were included for analysis in the final review, all of which involved tissue samples obtained from cadavers. No clinical studies were identified that met the eligibility criteria. A consistently low sensitivity score and negative predictive value were reported for periapical radiography, especially in comparison to CBCT, which scored highly. Both modalities achieved high scores for specificity and positive predictive value. Diagnostic accuracy of CBCT was lower for root‐filled teeth in comparison to non‐root‐filled teeth.

Discussion

Assessment of the periapical tissues using periapical radiographs was shown to have a low to moderate agreement with the histopathological assessment. CBCT was reported to be more accurate than PR and demonstrated a good agreement with histopathology, especially for non‐root‐filled teeth.

Conclusions

This review identified a need for greater standardization in methodology and reporting, and as the findings are based on cadaver studies, their clinical relevance must be interpreted with caution.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42021272147).
Influence of perceived benefits, barriers and activities of family engagement in care on family nursing practice: A cross‐sectional correlational study
Authors: Kiwanuka Frank , Nanyonga Rose Clarke , Sak‐Dankosky Natalia , Kvist Tarja
Published: April 2023

Aims

To describe nurses' perceptions of family nursing practice and to explore the influence of their perceptions of the benefits, barriers and activities of family engagement in care on family nursing practice.

Design

A cross‐sectional correlational study.

Methods

In total, 460 nurses from two tertiary hospitals in the central region of Uganda participated. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected between August 2020 and January 2021 using the Family Nursing Practice Scale. Analyses included descriptive statistics, t‐test, Pearson correlation, analysis of variance and ordinal logistics regression. Quantitative content analysis was carried out on the textual data.

Results

Nurses who perceived that family engagement in care improves patient and family outcomes were more likely to rate family nursing practice highly. Perceived barriers to family engagement in care particularly time constraints, work overload and family‐related conflicts have a negative and significant influence on family nursing practice. Nurse characteristics such as education, usual shift pattern and personal experience of having a family member in hospital are significantly associated with family nursing practice; nurses who work morning shifts were likely to report higher family nursing practice.

Conclusion

The study reveals that several parameters (perceived barriers, perceived benefits and nurse characteristics) influence nursing practice with families. Thus, bearing in mind the diversity of healthcare contexts, the findings show that multiple interacting factors are important for advancing family nursing interventions and practice.

Impact

Probabilistic factor‐specific predictions of nursing practice with families are provided in this study – this addresses a gap in the evidence regarding the elements that should be optimized when designing well‐informed policies and interventions to advance family nursing practice. A comparison of results in the literature with the present study's findings suggests a need to broaden the scope and context perspective in future research and broaden the understanding of how nurses´ perceptions influence family engagement in care.

Reporting method

The study adheres to the STROBE reporting guidelines.

Patient or public contribution

Family members/caregivers were involved in the design of the study particularly in assessment of validation of the tools used in the study.