bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Academic Independent Directors and Confucianism on Carbon Information Disclosure: Evidence from China
Authors: He Ren , Zhou Mingdian , Liu Jing , Yang Qing
Published: March 2021

As global warming has received widespread attention, the disclosure of firms’ carbon information has been expected by increasing stakeholders. This study extends the previous literature on the determinants of firms’ carbon information disclosure by examining the influence of academic independent directors and Confucianism on the quality of carbon information disclosure. Using a sample of Chinese listed firms in the CSI 300 Index during the period of 2012–2018, our empirical results show that academic independent directors have a significantly positive association with the quality of carbon information disclosure. The results also reveal that Confucianism positively affects the quality of carbon information disclosure. Moreover, Confucianism positively moderates the relationship between academic independent directors and the quality of carbon information disclosure. The results imply that Confucianism, as an informal system, can promote the governance effect of academic independent directors on firms’ carbon information disclosure behaviour. Our findings offer shareholders, regulators, and other stakeholders an integrating perspective on motivating firms to disclose high quality carbon information.
Suppression of Stem-End Rot on Avocado Fruit Using Trichoderma spp. in the Central Highlands of Kenya
Authors: Wanjiku E. K. , Waceke J. W. , Mbaka J. N.
Published: March 2021

Demand for organic avocado fruits, together with stringent food safety standards in the global market, has made producers to use alternative, safe, and consumer-friendly strategies of controlling the postharvest fungal disease of avocado fruits. This study assessed the in vitro efficacy of Trichoderma spp. (T. atroviride, T. virens, T. asperellum, and T. harzianum) against isolated avocado stem-end rot (SER) fungal pathogens (Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Neofusicoccum parvum, Nectria pseudotrichia, and Fusarium solani) using a dual culture technique. The Trichoderma spp. were also evaluated singly on postharvest “Hass” avocado fruits. Spore suspension at 5 × 104 conidial/ml of the Trichoderma spp. was applied on the avocado fruits at three time points, twenty-four hours before the fungal pathogen (preinoculation), at the same time as the fungal pathogen (concurrent inoculation), and 24 hours after the fungal pathogen (postinoculation). In the in vitro study, T. atroviride showed the highest mycelial growth inhibition against N. parvum (48%), N. pseudotrichia (55%), and F. solani (32.95%), while T. harzianum had the highest mycelial growth inhibition against L. theobromae. Trichoderma asperellum was the least effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of all the pathogens. Similarly, T. virens showed the highest mycelial growth inhibition against N. pseudotrichia at 45% inhibition. On postharvest “Hass” fruits, T. atroviride showed the highest efficacy against N. parvum, N. pseudotrichia, and F. solani in all the applications. Trichoderma virens and T. harzianum were most effective against all the pathogens during postinoculation, while Lasiodiplodia theobromae was best controlled by T. virens, T. harzianum, and T. asperellum during postinoculation. Both T. atroviride and T. harzianum present a potential alternative to synthetic fungicides against postharvest diseases of avocado fruits, and further tests under field conditions to be done to validate their efficacy. The possibility of using Trichoderma spp. in the management of SER on avocado fruits at a commercial level should also be explored.
Effects of Process Parameters on Geometrical Characteristics and Microstructure of TiC Particle‐Reinforced Co50 Alloy by Laser Cladding
Authors: Thi-Hong Nga Pham
Published: March 2021

Laser cladding of Co50 alloy coating and Co50 composite coatings doped with 10, 20, and 30 wt.% TiC particles was performed on the H13 steel surface. The effects of TiC concentration on the phase composition, microstructure, and microhardness of the coatings were studied. The results indicated that, in 10% TiC coating, the “bright band” is a quite flat‐growth tissue, while with 20% TiC, the “white bright band” contains a large amount of black TiC particles. The composite coating Co50, 10% TiC, and 20% TiC samples can clearly distinguish the cladding zone, bonding zone, and heat‐affected zone, and a good metallurgical bond is formed between the coating and the substrate. The 30% TiC coating and the substrate are not well bonded, which is attributed to the high TiC content in the coating; however, it has the best surface morphology, and there is no porosity on the surface. 10% TiC coatings have poor surface quality, show a spraying material phenomenon on two side edges which is quite serious, and a lot of porosity on the surface of the coating. In addition, 10% TiC coating includes the original TiC particles and primary TiC particles that are precipitated in situ from the liquid phase during solidification; 20% TiC coating indicates a large amount of TiC in the form of cross petals and twigs, and the figure points out that TiC exists like a large number of diffusely distributed spherical structures in the 30% TiC coating. The coatings of TiC/Co composite with less than 20% TiC showed good metallurgical bonding characteristics with the H13 steel surface.
Characterization and hierarchical static timing analysis of mixed-signal design
Authors: B. Sowmya K. , M. Thanushree
Published: March 2021

As the technology grows, the tendency to increase the data rate also increases. Clocks with higher frequencies have to be generated to meet the increased data rate. Any mismatch between the clock rate and data rate will lead to the capture of the wrong data. Hence performing timing analysis for any design to validate the capture of correct data plays a major role in any System on chip. This paper explains the procedure followed to perform timing analysis for any mixed-signal design.
Phenomenology and Onto-Generative Hermeneutics: Convergencies
Authors: Cheng Chung-Ying
Published: March 2021

In examining phenomenology as a base onto-generative hermeneutics (onto-hermeneutics) I find the gradual movement from pure phenomenology in Husserl to an ontological phenomenology in Merleau-Ponty through Heidegger and Gadamer. I argue thus that there is an implicit connection between the phenomenological and the ontological. In order to bring out the desirable connection between the two we must have hermeneutic interpretation of one in terms of the other. This leads to the idea of onto-hermeneutic circle of phenomenology and ontology based on the integration of the four phenomenologies which represent a wider comprehension and deeper intuition. It is in terms of this wider comprehension and deeper intuition of reality I introduce the Chinese notion “ben-ti 本體” (root-body) as “onto-generative” as well as onto-phenomenological. I suggest five principles as constituting the basic formulation of such a hermeneutic system as both theory and methodology: (i) Principle of comprehensive observation (guan 观) (the Yijing); (ii) Principle of objective reference (wu 物) (the Yijing); (iii) Principle of perception, reflection, and memory (gan 感) (the Yijing and the Confucian); (iv) Principle of intersubjective understanding and interpretation based on (ren 仁) (the Confucian); and (v) Principle of practical end and action (xing 行) (the Confucian).
An Exploration Into Neo-Confucian Ecology
Authors: Brasovan Nicholas S.
Published: March 2021

In this article, I lay the groundwork for hermeneutically reconstructing Neo-Confucian discourse as a viable, twenty-first century ecological worldview. I begin by outlining the tenets of complex systems theory, which are integral to contemporary ecological worldviews. I then provide an ecological reading of central concepts in the Neo-Confucian cosmology of Wang Fuzhi. As Neo-Confucian cosmology is rooted in the Book of Changes, I provide an ecological interpretation of this classic. This discussion demonstrates that contemporary ecological discourse provides a cogent hermeneutic position from which we can productively read Neo-Confucianism.
Joy, Wisdom and Virtue—The Confucian Paradigm of Good Life
Authors: Xinzhong Yao
Published: March 2021

This paper is intended to examine the ethical paradigm of the good life constructed in the early Confucian texts, in contrast with the clear tendency to the rational paradigm as ascribed in the ancient Greek philosophy. To fully appreciate the Confucian paradigm, we will investigate how joy becomes the central concern for early Confucians and what categories it is classified through discourses on wisdom and virtue. We will argue that joy, wisdom and virtue underlie the theme of learning to be human and is both the necessary ingredient and the consequence of the good life in early Confucianism.
Music with and Without Images
Authors: Chinn Meilin
Published: March 2021

Ji Kang’s 嵇康 argument against the presence of emotions in music in “Sound Has Neither Sorrow nor Joy” (sheng wu ai le lun 聲無哀 樂論) relies centrally on his claim that harmonious sounds are “without image” (wu xiang 無象). In contrast, the Ru 儒(Confucian) view of music is that it transmits images and emotions between musicians and listeners, which provides the basis for the musical cultivation of virtue (de 德). In this paper, I provide a reading of Ji Kang’s argument that elucidates key differences between music with and without images, and offer an analysis of these differences in terms of intransitive musical meaning.
Gadamer and the Yijing’s Language of Nature: Hermeneutics and Chinese Aesthetics
Authors: Fuyarchuk Andrew
Published: March 2021

Although their value-judgments diverge, neo-Confucian and American continental philosophers agree that Gadamer’s hermeneutics is anti-foundationalist. Neither side, however, has asked why he frequently appeals to standards of harmony, or why he models the art of medicine on the order of nature. These indicate a commitment to trans-historical foundation of One and many that forms the basis for comparisons with Chinese aesthetics in the Yijing tradition. These foundations are grounded in Gadamer’s reading of Plato and shape his onto-dialogical interpretive method. In contrast to Whitehead, Gadamer cements the One and many in practical life by removing the contradiction through a transformation in human ethos.
Evaluating the gas-laden ability of polymer melt under atmospheric conditions using a modified torque rheometer
Authors: Mei Xing-Yu , Zhou Ying-Guo , Sun Hong-Long , Dong Bin-Bin , Liu Chun-Tai , Turng Lih-Sheng
Published: March 2021

To investigate the effects of incorporating gas and the associated influencing factors on polymer melt, a method of evaluating the gas-laden ability using modified rheometric measurements was proposed. In this study, common and widely used thermoplastic materials—polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and their blends with different weight ratios—were selected, and the rheological properties of neat melt and gas-laden melts were tested using a modified torque rheometer. The foamed samples were also produced using a regular injection-molding machine, and the foamed morphology was examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The comparison of rheological curves of neat melt and gas-laden melt indicated that the incorporation of gas influenced the rheological properties of the gas-laden polymer melts as evidenced by a decrease of zero-rotational torque and an increase in the melt flow index. The results also suggested that the gas-laden ability of polymer melt could be evaluated quantitatively by the decay (due to desorption) of gas using the modified rheological measurement method. This study also demonstrated that the gas-laden ability can be used to predict the foaming behavior of polymer melts.
Creation of State Antibiogram and Subsequent Launch of Public Health–Coordinated Antibiotic Stewardship in New Hampshire: Small State, Big Collaboration
Authors: Leeman Hannah M. , Chan Benjamin P. , Zimmermann Carly R. , Talbot Elizabeth A. , Calderwood Michael S. , Dave Apara R. , Santos Paul , Hansen Katrina E.
Published: March 2021

Background:

An antibiogram is a summary of antibiotic susceptibility patterns for selected bacterial pathogens and antibiotics. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Public Health Services (DPHS) sought to create an annual state antibiogram to monitor statewide antibiotic resistance trends, guide appropriate empiric antibiotic prescribing, and inform future statewide antibiotic stewardship.

Methods:

Through legislative authority, DPHS required hospital laboratories to report antibiogram data annually. DPHS convened an advisory group of infectious disease and pharmacy stakeholders and experts to develop a standardized reporting form for bacteria and antibiotic susceptibility, which was disseminated to all 26 hospitals in New Hampshire. We combined the reported data into a statewide antibiogram, and we created clinical messaging to highlight findings and promote rational antibiotic prescribing among health care providers.

Results:

All hospital laboratories in New Hampshire submitted annual antibiogram data for 2016 and 2017, including more than 30 000 and 20 000 bacterial isolates recovered from urine and nonurine cultures, respectively, each year. The advisory group created clinical messages for appropriate treatment of common infectious syndromes, including uncomplicated urinary tract infections, community-acquired pneumonia, skin and soft-tissue infections, intra-abdominal infections, and health care–associated gram-negative aerobic infections. The statewide antibiograms and clinical messaging were widely disseminated.

Conclusions:

The small size of New Hampshire, a centralized public health structure, and close working relationships with hospitals and clinical partners allowed for efficient creation and dissemination of an annual statewide antibiogram, which has fostered public health–clinical partnerships and built a foundation for future state-coordinated antibiotic stewardship. This process serves as a model for other jurisdictions that are considering antibiogram development.
Difficult texts: Matthew 5.48 – are Christians to ‘be perfect’?
Authors: Laynesmith Mark
Published: March 2021

Unlike in Luke, in Matthew’s Gospel Jesus calls the disciples to ‘be teleios’. This article argues that teleios ought not to be translated as ‘perfect’ but instead means something closer to ‘boundless’ or ‘unconditional’. This retranslation has a knock-on effect in understanding Jesus’ response to the rich young ruler: ‘If you wish to be perfect …’
It Is Your Decision to Date Interracially: The Influence of Family Approval on the Likelihood of Interracial/Interethnic Dating
Authors: Miller Byron , Catalina Savanah , Rocks Sara , Tillman Kathryn
Published: March 2021

Although attitudes toward interracial romantic relationships (IRRs) have generally improved over the years, many Americans still disapprove of their family members being in IRRs. Prior studies have examined correlates of individual-level attitudes about interracial romance, but less is known about whether family members’ attitudes are directly associated with young people’s decisions to date interracially. Using data collected from 790 romantically involved college students at two large public four-year universities, we find that young adults who believe their siblings, parents, and grandparents approve of IRRs have greater odds of dating interracially. Compared to Whites, Blacks and Hispanics are more likely to be interracially involved but their decision to do so is much less dependent on the approval of their parents and grandparents. We also find young adults are more likely to date interracially if they have five or more relatives with IRR experience themselves. The findings and their implications are discussed.
Received Affection and Caregiving in the Grandparent–Grandchild Relationship
Authors: Mansson Daniel Hans
Published: March 2021

Grounded in Affection Exchange Theory’s assumptions that affectionate communication fosters relational benefits and increases people’s likelihood of survival, this study sought to examine young adult grandchildren’s willingness to serve as their grandparents’ caregivers as a function of received affection from their grandparents. Young adult grandchildren ( N = 209) independently completed a questionnaire in reference to a specific, biological grandparent. The results of a multiple regression analysis revealed partial support for the hypothesized positive relationships between grandchildren’s received affection from their grandparents and the grandchildren’s willingness to care for their grandparents. These findings are indicative of both practical and theoretical implications.
Characteristics of Women Presenting at the Emergency Department Who Choose Not to Disclose Being Subjected to Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Lustig Liat , Fishenson Elina , Natan Merav Ben
Published: March 2021

Literature suggests that some women refrain from disclosing being subjected to intimate partner violence (IPV) upon their contact with the health care system. Such disclosure becomes critical when the violence compels women to seek urgent medical care. The purpose of the present study was to compare characteristics of women who disclose and women who do not disclose being subjected to domestic violence, when presenting at the Emergency Department (ED). In this chart review study, characteristics of 56 randomly sampled women who disclosed and 50 who did not disclose being subjected to domestic violence, when presenting at the ED in a medical center located in central-northern Israel between 2015 and 2018, were compared. It was found that women who did not disclose were more likely to be pregnant, legally defined as helpless, and dependent on others to some extent. In addition, they were more likely to be hospitalized, which may indicate a more severe injury, and were more likely to have been subjected to psychological abuse or neglect alone. A trauma informed approach should guide specific interventions with a focus on women with these characteristics in the ED, in order to facilitate their disclosure of IPV.
Administrative Segregation: A Review of State and Federal Policies
Authors: Labrecque Ryan M. , Campbell Christopher M. , LaBranche Kayla J. , Reddy Leah , Zavita Karma Rose , Morgan Robert D.
Published: March 2021

The use of administrative segregation in prison is a controversial correctional policy. Proponents argue this type of housing is necessary for maintaining institutional safety and order, whereas critics contend it is damaging to inmate mental health. Despite the increase in academic attention over the last decade, there is much that remains unknown about the uses and effects of this practice. This study addresses this gap in knowledge by content-analyzing the administrative segregation policies of 48 state and federal prison systems. The results provide evidence of consistency and discrepancy across key elements of these policies, including placement criteria and review procedures. Findings further highlight how basic information regarding mental health provisions and conditions of confinement are missing from a substantial number of policies. This investigation emphasizes a need for more governmental accountability and transparency in the use of this correctional policy and identifies several areas for future research.
Effect of composite to aluminum single lap joints reinforced with graphene doped nylon 6.6 nanofibers
Authors: Şenyurt Muhammet Ali , Ekrem Mürsel , Düzcükoğlu Hayrettin , Avcı Ahmet
Published: March 2021

In this study was investigated the effect of nylon 6.6 (N6.6) nanofiber and nylon 6.6 by weight of 1%, 3% and 5% Graphene Nanoplates (GNPs) doped N6.6 nanofiber reinforced epoxy adhesives on single lap joint of AISI AA2024-T3 Aluminum Alloy (AA 2024)- Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite (CFRC) plates. First of all, N6.6 nanofibers with/without GNPs in different proportions were produced by the electrospinning method with the help of a rotating and moving drum. Epoxy resin as the adhesive, nanofibers as the second interface to increase the strength of the epoxy and AA 2024 - CFRC were used as the bonded material and the plates cut in 101.6 × 25.4 mm according to ASTM D 1002-10 and ASTM D 5868-01, respectively. In this research was focused on the application of single lap joints by reinforcing with N6.6 nanofibres to decrease the brittleness and increase the toughness of the epoxy resin. When compared with epoxy resin, the shear strength of epoxy adhesive reinforced with N6.6 nanofibers with 3% GNPs by weight increased by 31.20%. Thermal analysis of epoxy resin and hybrid adhesives was examined by Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC). In addition, the physical properties of N6.6 nanofibers doped/undoped GNPs in different proportions by weight were observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) by damage analysis of fracture surfaces.
Role of Leadership Skills for Developing Digital Acumen in Information Technology Employees
Authors: Mutsuddi Indranil , Sinha Ruchi
Published: March 2021

With the plethora of changes happening in organizations adopting new digital technologies, managing human resources in information technology organizations had never been more challenging. Keeping in mind, a very few literature available on the role of HR in the new digital era, an attempt has been made in this study to explore the role of leadership skills for developing digital acumen in people working in information technology organizations. The study used sequential mixed methodology to explore the insights of subject matter experts, technology leaders and HR professionals to develop an instrument that explored necessary leadership skills for acquiring digital acumen in employees working in information technology companies. The first part of the study was based on exploring narratives of five subject matter experts. The inputs from these experts came out with broad themes and sub-themes that were used for developing the constructs, namely, acquiring digital acumen, adaptability, ambiguity tolerance, teamwork and collaboration and championing leadership. The part two of the study involved the use of the instrument for recording the opinion of 210 respondents working in software development positions in reputed information technology companies in the NCR of Delhi. The results showed that respondent perception on acquiring digital acumen was mediated by the factor championing leadership. Other intervening leadership variables such as adaptability, ambiguity tolerance and teamwork and collaboration exerted their influence on acquiring digital acumen by exercising ‘championing leadership’ abilities in the organization.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale for Children (IUSC): Findings From Clinical and Community Samples in Iran
Authors: Zemestani Mehdi , Didehban Reza , Comer Jonathan S. , Kendall Philip C.
Published: March 2021

Objective:

The present study examined the psychometric properties of a Persian version of the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale for Children (IUSC; Comer et al, 2009).

Method:

Participating youth ( n = 346) 8 to 18 years of age were nonreferred community youth ( n = 279) or youth who met diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder ( n = 67) and their parents.

Results:

Across child- and parent-report data, confirmatory factor analysis supported a shortened 12-item version of the IUSC, and the confirmatory factor analysis also confirmed a theory-driven correlated two-factor structure of the IUSC-12. (i.e., prospective/inhibitory IU). Results further supported reliability and validity of parent- and child-reports of the Persian IUSC-12 via evidence of internal consistency, 4-week retest, significant associations with established measures of internalizing problems, and the ability of the measure to reliably distinguish the clinical sample from the community sample.

Conclusion:

Findings demonstrate sound psychometric properties of the Persian version of the IUSC-12 and provide additional support for the reliability and validity of the measure and its use in non-Western cultures. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for assessment, treatment, and study of anxiety and related internalizing problems in Iranian youth.
Update and guidance on management of myopia. European Society of Ophthalmology in cooperation with International Myopia Institute
Authors: Németh János , Tapasztó Beáta , Aclimandos Wagih A , Kestelyn Philippe , Jonas Jost B , De Faber Jan-Tjeerd H N , Januleviciene Ingrida , Grzybowski Andrzej , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt , Pärssinen Olavi , Guggenheim Jeremy A , Allen Peter M , Baraas Rigmor C , Saunders Kathryn J , Flitcroft Daniel Ian , Gray Lyle S , Polling Jan Roelof , Haarman Annechien EG , Tideman J Willem L , Wolffsohn James Stuart , Wahl Siegfried , Mulder Jeroen A , Smirnova Irina Yurievna , Formenti Marino , Radhakrishnan Hema , Resnikoff Serge
Published: March 2021

The prevalence of myopia is increasing extensively worldwide. The number of people with myopia in 2020 is predicted to be 2.6 billion globally, which is expected to rise up to 4.9 billion by 2050, unless preventive actions and interventions are taken. The number of individuals with high myopia is also increasing substantially and pathological myopia is predicted to become the most common cause of irreversible vision impairment and blindness worldwide and also in Europe. These prevalence estimates indicate the importance of reducing the burden of myopia by means of myopia control interventions to prevent myopia onset and to slow down myopia progression. Due to the urgency of the situation, the European Society of Ophthalmology decided to publish this update of the current information and guidance on management of myopia. The pathogenesis and genetics of myopia are also summarized and epidemiology, risk factors, preventive and treatment options are discussed in details.
Providing the conduit for treatment: The impact of vascular access and vein preservation in a 5-year-old child with prenatally diagnosed CRIM-negative Infantile Pompe disease
Authors: Ostroff Matthew , Gupta Punita , Garcia Daniel
Published: March 2021

Pompe disease is an autosomal recessive glycogen storage disorder resulting in progressive glycogen accumulation expressed in infancy with cardiomyopathy and skeletal myopathy. Without treatment by enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), life expectancy is less than 2 years. The cross-reactive immunologic material (CRIM) positive or negative status is the basis for the response to ERT. CRIM-negative patients mount an immune response to ERT, making this the most dangerous presentation. The following case study describes the 5-year course of the first successful treatment of an in utero CRIM-negative Pompe disease patient with prophylactic immune tolerance induction (ITI) and administration of ERT given within the first 2 days of life followed by ultrasound guided vascular access that facilitated by bi-weekly infusions and extensive phlebotomy.
Leading the flock: Examining the characteristics of multicultural school leaders in their quest for equitable schooling
Authors: Vassallo Brian
Published: March 2021

The quest for educational leaders to enact social and equitable schooling requires ongoing critical transformations that cannot be alienated from contemporary educational discourses and practices. Enacting social justice and equitable schooling poses an unparalleled challenge on the shoulders of risk-taking visionaries, who meticulously attempt to transmit their beliefs and values into the daily routine tasks at school, rather than plotting futuristic management scenarios. The study seeks to explore the multifaceted role of primary school leaders in the daily struggle to diffuse the principles of Multicultural Education for more just and equitable schooling. For this purpose, qualitative data measures were employed to determine the extent of which participants in the study mirrored the review of literature and research questions. The Critical Incident Technique was particularly useful as it allowed the collection for a large number of incidents occurring over a number of years, from a small number of people in a relatively short time. Analyses proceeded by identifying culturally responsive leadership practices and the application of critical race theory. Results identified seven core characteristics, present in school leaders who professed strong adherence to the principles of Multicultural Education. This suggests the need for emerging models of educational leadership to effectively respond to the increased diversity in our schools and to further establish the connections between multicultural educational leadership and equity schooling.
Cold War image-myths: A crime scene ethnography of defacement and historical redress from Athens, Greece
Authors: Mantzios George
Published: March 2021

This article develops an experimental ethnographic investigation into defacement as a popular modality of historical redress. It takes as its point of departure artistic remediations of archival materials pertaining to the commission, transport, and defacement of the statue of Harry S. Truman in Athens, Greece. At the forefront of the analysis is a consideration of such artistic remediations as extensions of the acts of defacement they (re)present. A political aesthetics of defacement is then elaborated through an experimental ethnography of Cold War historical redress centered around a crime scene investigation into the whereabouts and status of Harry S. Truman in present-day Athens. The experiment involves shifting the terms of historical redress from a focus on the statue of Harry S. Truman as a historiographical object of analytical study to the phantasmagoric modes of its ongoing defacement and (re)presentations in and from post-war Greece.
‘She – nature, woman, Goddess’: mythic, ethical and poetic feminist discourse in Margaret Atwood’s ‘Marsh Languages’ and Luce Irigaray’s In the Beginning She Was
Authors: Zimmerman Tegan
Published: March 2021

This manuscript pairs Margaret Atwood’s poem ‘Marsh Languages’ with Luce Irigaray’s recent philosophical text In the Beginning She Was. By doing so, an important conceptual resonance emerges between the two texts on the status of the loss of a maternal language and more broadly of the founding Mother at the origins of Western thought. Advancing a feminist poetics and ethics of the maternal, with its roots in nature, Atwood and Irigaray’s works are at odds with the enlightened language of our western masculine time, which seeks to disinherit its roots or to uproot itself. Atwood’s appeal in her poem ‘Marsh Languages’ reverberates with Luce Irigaray’s argument in In the Beginning She Was, which is that it is necessary for western philosophy to return to the marshes, so to speak, to return to the Presocratic philosopher-poets in order to discern how the logic of Western truth (via the male master-disciple) formed, and consequently discredited and covered over, a ‘she – nature, woman, Goddess’. Engaging with Greek myth (Hesiod’s Muses, Plato’s cave and mother-daughter duo Persephone-Demeter), Atwood as poet and Irigaray as philosopher interrogate and contest our western patriarchal tradition, for its erasure of ‘she – nature, woman, Goddess’, and suggest that the ethical implications of this silencing and forgetting have led to corrupt, destructive crisis-level relations, e.g. between humans, between humans and gods and between humans and nature.
Communities of practice or communicative rationality? A study of autonomous peer assisted learning
Authors: Jayathilake Chitra , Huxham Mark
Published: March 2021

Defined as ‘networks of learning relationships among students and significant others’, peer assisted learning takes a bewildering array of forms in higher education. A useful way to conceptualise these is to draw from ideas of communities of practice and communicative rationality, with the degree of student autonomy a third key element. We illustrate this approach with a study of Kuppi, an example of peer assisted learning initiated and organised entirely by students. We interviewed undergraduate participants from six state universities in Sri Lanka and found strong support for this model of peer assisted learning from student learners and student tutors. These classes are characterised by informality and discussion, flexibility in timing and location and a focus on assessments. Students determine the content and who teaches, whilst tutors give their time without payment, out of fraternity and to improve their own learning and skills. The theory of communicative rationality helped explain much of the attraction of this form of peer assisted learning. There was evidence for a strong community of practice; however apart from peer tutors aspiring to become academics, this involved mostly reinforcement of student identity rather than transformation into emerging roles. The high levels of engagement and student autonomy shown by Kuppi challenge suggestions that peer assisted learning must be organised by tutors if it is to be effective.
Transfer of the supinator nerve to the posterior interosseous nerve for hand opening in tetraplegia through an anterior approach
Authors: van Zyl Natasha , Galea Mary P , Cooper Catherine , Hahn Jodie , Hill Bridget
Published: March 2021

We report a retrospective series of 44 transfers in 26 patients in whom a functioning supinator nerve was transferred to a paralyzed posterior interosseous nerve through a single, anterior approach to re-animate hand opening in mid-cervical tetraplegia. Eighteen patients underwent concurrent nerve or tendon transfers to re-animate grasp and/or pinch through the same anterior incision. We evaluated the strength of the innervated muscle at mean follow-up of 24 months (range 12–27). The strength attained in our patients was equivalent to the strength after the transfer through a posterior approach reported in the literature. Nineteen of our patients were satisfied with the hand opening procedure. First webspace opening was the only variable to correlate with patient satisfaction. We conclude that the anterior approach yields similar results to the posterior approach and has the advantage of allowing easier access for simultaneously performing nerve or tendon transfers to reconstruct grasp and pinch.

Level of evidence: IV
Teriflunomide treatment is associated with optic nerve recovery in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pfeuffer Steffen , Kerschke Laura , Ruck Tobias , Rolfes Leoni , Pawlitzki Marc , Albrecht Philipp , Wiendl Heinz , Meuth Sven G.
Published: March 2021

Background and aims:

Various attempts have been made to support recovery following optic neuritis (ON), but the respective trials have mostly been negative. The aim of this study was to determine whether disease-modifying treatment (DMT) following ON as first manifestation of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis influences long-term outcomes.

Methods:

A total of 79 patients with ON were identified and evaluated at relapse, DMT induction, and 12 months following treatment induction with either glatiramer acetate (GLAT), interferon-beta (IFN), or teriflunomide (TRF). Low-contrast letter acuity (LCLA) and full-field visual-evoked potentials (FF-VEP) were compared between treatment groups using multivariable regression models. The impact of TRF treatment induction compared with IFN or GLAT following relapses outside the optic nerves was evaluated in an independent cohort of 122 patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes and rates of confirmed improvement of relapse-related disability were evaluated.

Results:

TRF-treated patients exhibited higher LCLA and lower relative P100 latencies normalized to the fellow-eye. Findings were significant following covariate-adjustment by multivariable analyses. Cranial MRI lesion load as well as disability progression rates were not significantly different between groups. The cohort of patients following relapses other than ON showed no differences in confirmed improvement of disability.

Conclusion:

TRF treatment is associated with favorable outcomes regarding functional optic nerve recovery following ON in early multiple sclerosis.
A Pilot Study Evaluating the Timing of Vestibular Therapy After Sport-Related Concussion: Is Earlier Better?
Authors: Ahluwalia Ranbir , Miller Scott , Dawoud Fakhry M. , Malave Jose O. , Tyson Heidi , Bonfield Christopher M. , Yengo-Kahn Aaron M.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Vestibular dysfunction, characterized by nausea, dizziness, imbalance, and/or gait disturbance, represents an important sport-related concussion (SRC) subtype associated with prolonged recovery. Vestibular physical therapy promotes recovery; however, the benefit of earlier therapy is unclear.

Hypothesis:

Earlier vestibular therapy for young athletes with SRC is associated with earlier return to play (RTP), return to learn (RTL), and symptom resolution.

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Patients aged 5 to 23 years with SRC who initiated vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) from January 2019 to December 2019 were included and patient records were reviewed. Therapy initiation was defined as either early, ≤30 days postinjury, or late (>30 days). Univariate comparisons between groups, Kaplan-Meier plots, and multivariate Cox proportional hazard modeling were performed.

Results:

Overall, 23 patients (10 early, 13 late) aged 16.14 ± 2.98 years and 43.5% were male patients. There was no difference between group demographics or medical history. Median initial total and vestibular symptom scores were comparable between groups. The late therapy group required additional time to RTP (110 days [61.3, 150.8] vs 31 days [22.5, 74.5], P = 0.03) and to achieve symptom resolution (121.5 days [71, 222.8] vs 54 days [27, 91], P = 0.02), but not to RTL (12 days [3.5, 26.5] vs 17.5 days [8, 20.75], P = 0.09). Adjusting for age and initial total symptom score, earlier therapy was protective against delayed symptom resolution ( P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

This pilot study suggests that initiating VRT within the first 30 days after SRC is associated with earlier RTP and symptom resolution. Further prospective trials to evaluate if even earlier VRT should be pursued to further improve recovery time.

Clinical Relevance:

Clinicians should screen for vestibular dysfunction and consider modifying follow-up schedules after SRC to initiate VRT within a month of injury for improved outcomes.
SomatoSim: precision simulation of somatic single nucleotide variants
Authors: Hawari Marwan A. , Hong Celine S. , Biesecker Leslie G.
Published: March 2021

Background

Somatic single nucleotide variants have gained increased attention because of their role in cancer development and the widespread use of high-throughput sequencing techniques. The necessity to accurately identify these variants in sequencing data has led to a proliferation of somatic variant calling tools. Additionally, the use of simulated data to assess the performance of these tools has become common practice, as there is no gold standard dataset for benchmarking performance. However, many existing somatic variant simulation tools are limited because they rely on generating entirely synthetic reads derived from a reference genome or because they do not allow for the precise customizability that would enable a more focused understanding of single nucleotide variant calling performance.

Results

SomatoSim is a tool that lets users simulate somatic single nucleotide variants in sequence alignment map (SAM/BAM) files with full control of the specific variant positions, number of variants, variant allele fractions, depth of coverage, read quality, and base quality, among other parameters. SomatoSim accomplishes this through a three-stage process: variant selection, where candidate positions are selected for simulation, variant simulation, where reads are selected and mutated, and variant evaluation, where SomatoSim summarizes the simulation results.

Conclusions

SomatoSim is a user-friendly tool that offers a high level of customizability for simulating somatic single nucleotide variants. SomatoSim is available at https://github.com/BieseckerLab/SomatoSim.
Investigating mechanisms underlying genetic resistance to Salmon Rickettsial Syndrome in Atlantic salmon using RNA sequencing
Authors: Moraleda Carolina P. , Robledo Diego , Gutiérrez Alejandro P. , del-Pozo Jorge , Yáñez José M. , Houston Ross D.
Published: March 2021

Background

Salmon Rickettsial Syndrome (SRS), caused by Piscirickettsia salmonis, is one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality in Atlantic salmon aquaculture, particularly in Chile. Host resistance is a heritable trait, and functional genomic studies have highlighted genes and pathways important in the response of salmon to the bacteria. However, the functional mechanisms underpinning genetic resistance are not yet well understood. In the current study, a large population of salmon pre-smolts were challenged with P. salmonis, with mortality levels recorded and samples taken for genotyping. In parallel, head kidney and liver samples were taken from animals of the same population with high and low genomic breeding values for resistance, and used for RNA-Sequencing to compare their transcriptome profile both pre and post infection.

Results

A significant and moderate heritability (h2 = 0.43) was shown for the trait of binary survival. Genome-wide association analyses using 38 K imputed SNP genotypes across 2265 animals highlighted that resistance is a polygenic trait. Several thousand genes were identified as differentially expressed between controls and infected samples, and enriched pathways related to the host immune response were highlighted. In addition, several networks with significant correlation with SRS resistance breeding values were identified, suggesting their involvement in mediating genetic resistance. These included apoptosis, cytoskeletal organisation, and the inflammasome.

Conclusions

While resistance to SRS is a polygenic trait, this study has highlighted several relevant networks and genes that are likely to play a role in mediating genetic resistance. These genes may be future targets for functional studies, including genome editing, to further elucidate their role underpinning genetic variation in host resistance.
Study on the transcriptome for breast muscle of chickens and the function of key gene RAC2 on fibroblasts proliferation
Authors: Zhang Genxi , Wu Pengfei , Zhou Kaizhi , He Mingliang , Zhang Xinchao , Qiu Cong , Li Tingting , Zhang Tao , Xie Kaizhou , Dai Guojun , Wang Jinyu
Published: March 2021

Background

Growth performance is significant in broiler production. In the growth process of broilers, gene expression varies at different growth stages. However, limited research has been conducted on the molecular mechanisms of muscle growth and development in yellow-feathered male chickens.

Results

In the study, we used RNA-seq to study the transcriptome of the breast muscle of male Jinghai yellow chickens at 4 (M4F), 8 (M8F) and 12 weeks (M12F) of age. The results showed that 4608 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by comparison in pairs of the three groups with Fold Change (FC) ≥ 2 and False Discovery Rate (FDR) ≤ 0.05, and 83, 3445 and 3903 DEGs were obtained separately from M4FvsM8F, M4FvsM12F and M8FvsM12F. Six genes were found as co-differentially expressed in the three age groups, namely SNCG, MYH1A, ARHGDIB, ENSGALG00000031598, ENSGALG00000035660 and ENSGALG00000030559. The GO analysis showed that 0, 304 and 408 biological process (BP) were significantly enriched in M4FvsM8F, M4FvsM12F and M8FvsM12F groups, respectively. KEGG pathway enrichment showed that 1, 2, 4 and 4 pathways were significantly enriched in M4FvsM8F, M4FvsM12F, M8FvsM12F and all DEGs, respectively. They were steroid biosynthesis, carbon metabolism, focal adhesion, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, biosynthesis of amino acids and salmonella infection. We constructed short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to interfere the differentially expressed gene RAC2 in DF-1 cells and detected mRNA and protein expression of the downstream genes PAK1 and MAPK8. Results of qPCR showed that RAC2, PAK1 and MAPK8 mRNA expression significantly decreased in the shRAC2–2 group compared with the negative control (NC) group. Western Blot (WB) results showed that the proteins of RAC2, PAK1 and MAPK8 also decreased in the shRAC2–2 group. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay both showed that the proliferation of DF-1 cells was significantly inhibited after transfection of shRAC2–2.

Conclusions

The results of RNA-seq revealed genes, BP terms and KEGG pathways related to growth and development of male Jinghai yellow chickens, and they would have important guiding significance to our production practice. Further research suggested that RAC2 might regulate cell proliferation by regulating PAKs/MAPK8 pathway and affect growth of chickens.
Prenatal testosterone triggers long-term behavioral changes in male zebra finches: unravelling the neurogenomic mechanisms
Authors: Bentz Alexandra B. , Niederhuth Chad E. , Carruth Laura L. , Navara Kristen J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Maternal hormones, like testosterone, can strongly influence developing offspring, even generating long-term organizational effects on adult behavior; yet, the mechanisms facilitating these effects are still unclear. Here, we experimentally elevated prenatal testosterone in the eggs of zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) and measured male aggression in adulthood along with patterns of neural gene expression (RNA-seq) and DNA methylation (MethylC-Seq) in two socially relevant brain regions (hypothalamus and nucleus taenia of the amygdala). We used enrichment analyses and protein-protein interaction networks to find candidate processes and hub genes potentially affected by the treatment. We additionally identified differentially expressed genes that contained differentially methylated regions.

Results

We found that males from testosterone-injected eggs displayed more aggressive behaviors compared to males from control eggs. Hundreds of genes were differentially expressed, particularly in the hypothalamus, including potential aggression-related hub genes (e.g., brain derived neurotrophic factor). There were also enriched processes with well-established links to aggressive phenotypes (e.g., somatostatin and glutamate signaling). Furthermore, several highly connected genes identified in protein-protein interaction networks also showed differential methylation, including adenylate cyclase 2 and proprotein convertase 2.

Conclusions

These results highlight genes and processes that may play an important role in mediating the effects of prenatal testosterone on long-term phenotypic outcomes, thereby providing insights into the molecular mechanisms that facilitate hormone-mediated maternal effects.