bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and Monitoring of Interstitial Lung Disease in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Khanna Surabhi Agarwal , Nance John W. , Suliman Sally A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose of Review

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common manifestation of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We explore the importance of early detection, monitoring, and management of SSc-ILD.

Recent Findings

All patients with SSc are at risk of ILD and should be screened for ILD at diagnosis using a high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan. Some patients with SSc-ILD develop a progressive phenotype characterized by worsening fibrosis on HRCT, decline in lung function, and early mortality. To evaluate progression and inform treatment decisions, regular monitoring is important and should include pulmonary function testing, evaluation of symptoms and quality of life, and, where indicated, repeat HRCT. Multidisciplinary discussion enables comprehensive evaluation of the available information and its implications for management. The first-line treatment for SSc-ILD is usually immunosuppression. The antifibrotic drug nintedanib has been approved for slowing lung function decline in patients with SSc-ILD.

Optimal management of patients with SSc-ILD requires a multidisciplinary and patient-centered approach.
At the Crux of Joint Crosstalk: TGFβ Signaling in the Synovial Joint
Authors: Bailey Karsyn N. , Alliston Tamara
Published: May 2022

Purpose of Review

The effect of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway on joint homeostasis is tissue-specific, non-linear, and context-dependent, representing a unique complexity in targeting TGFβ signaling in joint disease. Here we discuss the variety of mechanisms that TGFβ signaling employs in the synovial joint to maintain healthy joint crosstalk and the ways in which aberrant TGFβ signaling can result in joint degeneration.

Recent Findings

Osteoarthritis (OA) epitomizes a condition of disordered joint crosstalk in which multiple joint tissues degenerate leading to overall joint deterioration. Synovial joint tissues, such as subchondral bone, articular cartilage, and synovium, as well as mesenchymal stem cells, each demonstrate aberrant TGFβ signaling during joint disease, whether by excessive or suppressed signaling, imbalance of canonical and non-canonical signaling, a perturbed mechanical microenvironment, or a distorted response to TGFβ signaling during aging.

The synovial joint relies upon a sophisticated alliance among each joint tissue to maintain joint homeostasis. The TGFβ signaling pathway is a key regulator of the health of individual joint tissues, and the subsequent interaction among these different joint tissues, also known as joint crosstalk. Dissecting the sophisticated function of TGFβ signaling in the synovial joint is key to therapeutically interrogating the pathway to optimize overall joint health.
Treatment with IFB-088 Improves Neuropathy in CMT1A and CMT1B Mice
Authors: Bai Yunhong , Treins Caroline , Volpi Vera G. , Scapin Cristina , Ferri Cinzia , Mastrangelo Rosa , Touvier Thierry , Florio Francesca , Bianchi Francesca , Del Carro Ubaldo , Baas Frank F. , Wang David , Miniou Pierre , Guedat Philippe , Shy Michael E. , D’Antonio Maurizio
Published: May 2022

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), caused by duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene, and CMT1B, caused by mutations in myelin protein zero (MPZ) gene, are the two most common forms of demyelinating CMT (CMT1), and no treatments are available for either. Prior studies of the MpzSer63del mouse model of CMT1B have demonstrated that protein misfolding, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention and activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) contributed to the neuropathy. Heterozygous patients with an arginine to cysteine mutation in MPZ (MPZR98C) develop a severe infantile form of CMT1B which is modelled by MpzR98C/ + mice that also show ER stress and an activated UPR. C3-PMP22 mice are considered to effectively model CMT1A. Altered proteostasis, ER stress and activation of the UPR have been demonstrated in mice carrying Pmp22 mutations. To determine whether enabling the ER stress/UPR and readjusting protein homeostasis would effectively treat these models of CMT1B and CMT1A, we administered Sephin1/IFB-088/icerguestat, a UPR modulator which showed efficacy in the MpzS63del model of CMT1B, to heterozygous MpzR98C and C3-PMP22 mice. Mice were analysed by behavioural, neurophysiological, morphological and biochemical measures. Both MpzR98C/ + and C3-PMP22 mice improved in motor function and neurophysiology. Myelination, as demonstrated by g-ratios and myelin thickness, improved in CMT1B and CMT1A mice and markers of UPR activation returned towards wild-type values. Taken together, our results demonstrate the capability of IFB-088 to treat a second mouse model of CMT1B and a mouse model of CMT1A, the most common form of CMT. Given the recent benefits of IFB-088 treatment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis animal models, these data demonstrate its potential in managing UPR and ER stress for multiple mutations in CMT1 as well as in other neurodegenerative diseases.

Graphical Abstract

(Left panel) the accumulation of overexpressed PMP22 or misfolded mutant P0 in the Schwann cell endoplasmic reticulum (ER) leads to overwhelming of the degradative capacity, activation of ER-stress mechanisms, and myelination impairment. (Right panel) by prolonging eIF2α phosphorylation, IFB-088 reduces the amount of newly synthesized proteins entering the ER, allowing the protein quality control systems to better cope with the unfolded/misfolded protein and allowing myelination to progress.
Safety aid elimination as a brief, preventative intervention for social anxiety: A randomized controlled trial in university students
Authors: Arai Honami , Ishikawa Shin-ichi , Okawa Sho , Kishida Kohei , Korte Kristina J. , Schmidt Norman B.
Published: May 2022

Although there are a variety of treatment options for social anxiety, effective prevention strategies for those with subclinical social anxiety are limited. This study evaluated a single session group formatted prevention program focused on the reduction of safety behaviors in both a proof-of-concept study and a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Participants (N = 59) were nontreatment seeking Japanese university students with high levels of social anxiety. Participants were randomized to either an active treatment focused on identification and elimination of safety behavior or a control group involving the discussion of healthy coping strategies. Both conditions met for 120 min in small groups (4 to 6 participants per group). The preliminary proof-of-concept study as well as the RCT demonstrated high levels of acceptability. Findings from the RCT indicated significant improvement in social anxiety symptoms among those in the active treatment condition at post-treatment, which was maintained at follow-up. In addition, participants in the treatment condition showed significant improvement in levels of depression. The effect size difference in symptoms between conditions was in the large range. The present study provides preliminary support for the efficacy of a newly developed treatment program targeting safety behaviors in students with subclinical social anxiety. The current results also illustrate the promise of a brief, indicated prevention strategy focused on safety behavior among those with subclinical social anxiety.
Thyroid function after diagnostic 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine in children with neuroblastic tumors
Authors: Clement Sarah C. , Tytgat Godelieve A. M. , van Trotsenburg A. S. Paul , Kremer Leontien C. M. , van Santen Hanneke M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) labeled with radioisotopes can be used for diagnostics 123I−) and treatment (131I−) in patients with neuroblastic tumors. Thyroid dysfunction has been reported in 52% of neuroblastoma (NBL) survivors after 131I-MIBG, despite thyroid protection. Diagnostic 123I-MIBG is not considered to be hazardous for thyroid function; however, this has never been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in survivors of a neuroblastic tumor who received diagnostic 123I-MIBG only.

Methods

Thyroid function and uptake of 123I− in the thyroid gland after 123I-MIBG administrations were evaluated in 48 neuroblastic tumor survivors who had not been treated with 131I-MIBG. All patients had received thyroid prophylaxis consisting of potassium iodide or a combination of potassium iodide, thiamazole and thyroxine during exposure to 123I-MIBG.

Results

After a median follow-up of 6.6 years, thyroid function was normal in 46 of 48 survivors (95.8%). Two survivors [prevalence 4.2% (95% CI 1.2–14.0)] had mild thyroid dysfunction. In 29.2% of the patients and 11.1% of images 123I− uptake was visible in the thyroid. In 1 patient with thyroid dysfunction, weak uptake of 123I− was seen on 1 of 10 images.

Conclusions

The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction does not seem to be increased in patients with neuroblastic tumors who received 123I-MIBG combined with thyroid protection. Randomized controlled trials are required to investigate whether administration of 123I-MIBG without thyroid protection is harmful to the thyroid gland.
miR-16-5p Is a Novel Mediator of Venous Smooth Muscle Phenotypic Switching
Authors: Zhang Dengshen , Shi Jun , Liang Guiyou , Liu Daxing , Zhang Jian , Pan Sisi , Lu Yuanfu , Wu Qin , Gong Changyang , Guo Yingqiang
Published: May 2022

Vein graft failure after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is primarily caused by intimal hyperplasia, which results from the phenotypic switching of venous smooth muscle cells (SMCs). This study investigates the role and underlying mechanism of miR-16-5p in the phenotypic switching of venous SMCs. In rats, neointimal thickness and area increased over time within 28 days after CABG, as did the time-dependent miR-16-5p downregulation and SMC phenotypic switching. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB-induced miR-16-5p downregulation in HSVSMCs was accompanied by and substantially linked with alterations in phenotypic switching indicators. Furthermore, miR-16-5p overexpression increased SMCs differentiation marker expression while suppressing HSVSMCs proliferation and migration and drastically inhibiting neointimal development in vein grafts. The miR-16-5p inhibited zyxin expression, which was necessary for HSVSMCs phenotypic switching. The miR-16-5p/zyxin axis is a novel, potentially therapeutic target for preventing and treating venous graft intimal hyperplasia.

Graphical abstract
Assessing laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry as a tool to study archaeological and modern human mobility through strontium isotope analyses of tooth enamel
Authors: Boethius Adam , Ahlström Torbjörn , Kielman-Schmitt Melanie , Kjällquist Mathilda , Larsson Lars
Published: May 2022

To evaluate the possibility of obtaining detailed individual mobility data from archaeological teeth, the strontium isotope ratios on 28 human teeth from three separate Early-Mid Holocene, Swedish, foraging contexts (Norje Sunnansund, Skateholm and Västerbjers) were analysed through laser ablation. The teeth/individuals have previously been analysed using traditional bulk sampled thermal ionisation mass spectrometry. To validate the conclusions regarding the archaeological teeth, a tooth from a modern man with a known background was also analysed. The result shows that all of the teeth display less than 0.4% discrepancy between the mean values of the laser ablation profiles and the previously published bulk data and 25 (89%) of the teeth display less than a 0.2% discrepancy. By calculating linear and polynomial trendlines for each ablated tooth, it was possible to illustrate a strong correlation for the transition pattern between the measurements when following a chronological sequence from the tip to the cervix. Such correlations were not reproduced when the data sequence was randomized. The analyses show that the chronologically sequenced ablation data fit with a transition between local bioavailable strontium regions, that the measurements do not fluctuate between extremes and that their values are not caused by end-member mixing. This indicates an increasing data resolution when reducing strontium isotope ratio averaging time by minimizing the sampling area. The results suggest strontium incorporation in human teeth can be measured on an ordinal scale, with a traceable chronological order to enamel mineralization when sampled from tip to cervix at an equal distance from the surface. Micro-sampling enamel is considered a valid method to assess prehistoric, but not modern, human mobility; laser ablation technology increases the amount of information obtained from a single tooth while rendering minimal damage to the studied specimen.
Tribological properties of hierarchical micro-dimples produced on a cylindrical surface by dual-frequency texturing
Authors: Ali Saood , Kurniawan Rendi , Chul Park Gun , Ko Tae Jo
Published: May 2022

An experimental investigation was performed for investigating the tribological performance of micro-dimple surface texture patterns on a cylindrical surface in a realistic operating environment of starved lubrication. Micro-dimples were generated by a dual-frequency surface texturing method, in which a high-frequency (16.3 kHz) three-dimensional (3D) vibration and a low-frequency (230 Hz) one-dimensional (1D) vibration were applied at the tool tip simultaneously, resulting in the generation of the hierarchical micro-dimples in a single step. Rotating cylinder-on-pin tribological tests were conducted to compare the tribological performance of the non-textured reference specimen and micro-dimple samples. The effect of surface textures generated with various shape parameters (long drop and short drop), dimension parameters (length and surface texture density), and operation parameters (load and sliding velocity) on the tribological performance was evaluated. Stribeck curves indicate that the hierarchical micro-dimples exhibit a lower coefficient of friction than the reference specimen in the high contact-pressure regions. It is also observed that variation in the length of a micro-dimple, the shape effect, is the major factor affecting the friction response of the textured surfaces. The generation of additional hydrodynamic pressure and lift effect by hierarchical structures is the main reason for the improved performance of hierarchical micro-dimple surfaces.
Utilizing a Pretrained Language Model (BERT) to Classify Preservice Physics Teachers’ Written Reflections
Authors: Wulff Peter , Mientus Lukas , Nowak Anna , Borowski Andreas
Published: May 2022

Computer-based analysis of preservice teachers’ written reflections could enable educational scholars to design personalized and scalable intervention measures to support reflective writing. Algorithms and technologies in the domain of research related to artificial intelligence have been found to be useful in many tasks related to reflective writing analytics such as classification of text segments. However, mostly shallow learning algorithms have been employed so far. This study explores to what extent deep learning approaches can improve classification performance for segments of written reflections. To do so, a pretrained language model (BERT) was utilized to classify segments of preservice physics teachers’ written reflections according to elements in a reflection-supporting model. Since BERT has been found to advance performance in many tasks, it was hypothesized to enhance classification performance for written reflections as well. We also compared the performance of BERT with other deep learning architectures and examined conditions for best performance. We found that BERT outperformed the other deep learning architectures and previously reported performances with shallow learning algorithms for classification of segments of reflective writing. BERT starts to outperform the other models when trained on about 20 to 30% of the training data. Furthermore, attribution analyses for inputs yielded insights into important features for BERT’s classification decisions. Our study indicates that pretrained language models such as BERT can boost performance for language-related tasks in educational contexts such as classification.
Resemblance Reporting on Children: Sisters Are More Proactive than Brothers
Authors: Fisktjønmo Guro Lovise Hole , Bårdsen Bård-Jørgen , Folstad Ivar
Published: May 2022

The asymmetric grandparental investment in humans may ultimately be explained by the paternity uncertainty hypothesis. The proximate mechanisms leading to grandparental bias in investment in grandchildren are, however, unclear. In a study of 233 males and females with an opposite sexed sibling, we examined whether comments on resemblance regarding one’s own child, or one’s sibling’s child, changed in frequency after both siblings became parents. We found that comments among siblings on resemblance of children occurred more frequently after both became parents, compared to when only one of the siblings had children, suggesting that resemblance descriptions may become more important after both siblings have children. Furthermore, and in line with the suggestion that mothers may mentally exploit the alloparenting environment by holding a stronger belief about resemblance, brothers reported that their sisters commented on resemblance concerning their own child more often and more intensely. Additionally, sisters corroborated this finding by self-reporting that they were the most proactive during resemblance descriptions of their brothers’ child. Thus, sisters might, through more frequent voicing of stronger opinions on parent–child resemblance than their brothers, influence alloparents’ perception of resemblance to their children and thus influence alloparental investments.
Continuous diameter increase reactor – a reactor concept for maximizing productivity by a controlled diameter extension
Authors: Hafner Marcus , Wolff Fabian , Roeder Thorsten
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a novel theoretical approach for maximizing productivity in microreactors by a controlled extension of the tube diameter. A one-dimensional numeric model was developed where the tube diameter increases based on the reaction heat to achieve a constant temperature throughout the reactor length. Through this approach, a basic plug flow reactor model for mass and heat transfer was used with an integrated algorithm for a controlled diameter extension. A parametric study was performed to ensure safe operating conditions concerning thermal runaway. The results show an increase in productivity of approximately 42% for the fictional second-order test reaction.

Graphical abstract
The role of K63-linked polyubiquitin in several types of autophagy
Authors: Dósa Anna , Csizmadia Tamás
Published: May 2022

Lysosomal-dependent self-degradative (autophagic) mechanisms are essential for the maintenance of normal homeostasis in all eukaryotic cells. Several types of such self-degradative and recycling pathways have been identified, based on how the cellular self material can incorporate into the lysosomal lumen. Ubiquitination, a well-known and frequently occurred posttranslational modification has essential role in all cell biological processes, thus in autophagy too. The second most common type of polyubiquitin chain is the K63-linked polyubiquitin, which strongly connects to some self-degradative mechanisms in the cells. In this review, we discuss the role of this type of polyubiquitin pattern in numerous autophagic processes.
Evaluation of ultra-high degree gravity field models: a case study of Eastern Tibetan Plateau and Sichuan Province
Authors: Yuan Huaqing , Wan Xiaoyun , Wu Yunlong , Peng Yi , Guo Zehua
Published: May 2022

This study validates the ultra-high-degree gravity field models in terms of the internal error estimate and the external precision. Internal error estimate is evaluated by geoid error degree variance and cumulative geoid height errors. The evaluation of the external precision is carried out using observed ground gravity data sets in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Sichuan Basin of mainland China. The results show that the geoid degree error is at the millimeter level, and the accumulated geoid error is at the centimeter level, and SGG-UGM-2 has the highest precision in terms of geoid errors. However, in terms of gravity anomaly, the GECO model has the highest precision of 37.080 mGal in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and after terrain correction, its precision can reach 28.907 mGal, an improvement of 22%. In the Sichuan Basin, EGM2008 performs best with a precision of 7.202 mGal; the precision of EGM2008 becomes 6.648 mGal after terrain correction. These results mean that the terrain correction must be considered in the area where topography varies largely, while when the terrain is relatively flat, the effect of terrain on gravity can be ignored.
A Curve Approximation Approach Using Bio-inspired Polar Coordinate Bald Eagle Search Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yunhui , Zhou Yongquan , Zhou Guo , Luo Qifang , Zhu Binwen
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a curve approximation approach using bio-inspired polar coordinate bald eagle search algorithm (PBES) is proposed. PBES algorithm is inspired by the spiral mechanism of bald eagle during predation. By introducing polar coordinate, the spiral predation process of the bald eagle will become more intuitive, which is more conducive for the algorithm to polar coordinate optimization problems. The initialization stage of PBES algorithm is modified to make the distribution of initialized individuals more uniform and some parameters are introduced to strengthen the exploration and exploitation capabilities of algorithm. The performance of the PBES algorithm is tested in three aspects: polar coordinate transcendental equation, curve approximation and robotic manipulator. The experimental results show that the PBES algorithm is superior to the well-known metaheuristic algorithms as it is effectively applicable for curve approximation problem.
Georges Bigot and Japan 1882-1889
Authors: Cortazzi Hugh
Published: May 2022

Incorporating over 250 illustrations, this is the first comprehensive study in English of French artist and caricaturist George Ferdinand Bigot (1860-1927) who, during the last two decades of the nineteenth century, was renowned in Japan but barely known in his own country. Even today, examples of his cartoons appear in Japanese school textbooks. Inspired by what he saw of Japanese culture and way of life at the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1878, Bigot managed to find his way to Japan in 1882 and immediately set about developing his career as an artist working in pen and ink, watercolours and oils. He also quickly exploited his talent as a highly skilled sketch artist and cartoonist. His output was prodigious and included regular commissions from The Graphic and various Japanese as well as French journals. He left Japan in 1899, never to return. The volume includes a full introduction of the life, work and artistry of Bigot by Christian Polak, together with an essay by Hugh Cortazzi on Charles Wirgman, publisher of Japan Punch. Wirgman was Bigot’s ‘predecessor’ and friend (he launched his own satirical magazine in 1887, the year Japan Punch closed).

Georges Bigot and Japan also makes a valuable contribution to Meiji studies and the history of both Franco- and Anglo-Japanese relations, as well as the role of art in modern international relations.
Northern Light
Authors: Jørgensen Nils-Johan
Published: May 2022

Here is a new, challenging appraisal of Norway, the author’s country of birth, that redefines its history, culture and heritage - ‘after Ibsen’ - and looks, with a degree of ominous foreboding, at its future and the future of Europe. Ex-diplomat and widely published author Jørgensen explores an array of topics, from Norway’s Viking past, its pursuit of independence, the German occupation, its politics and cultural heritage, the defence of NATO, the relationship with Europe, and the challenge of Russia, concluding with ‘self-image and reality’. In Northern Light, the author challenges many existing perceptions and stereotypes, making this an essential reference for anyone interested in Norway and its people, international affairs, European history and its cultural legacy.
The Broad Impacts of Disposable Lighter Safety Regulations
Authors: Viscusi W. Kip , Dalafave Rachel
Published: May 2022

The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s regulation of disposable lighters was targeted at preventing injuries due to use of lighters by children not over 4 years of age. Based on a difference-in-differences analysis of national data for 1990–2019, this article estimates that the regulation reduced all injuries to the target population by 71%, burn injuries by 74%, and injuries severe enough to warrant admission to the hospital by 85% overall and by 84% for burn injuries. Unlike the counterproductive performance of safety cap regulations, this safety device enhanced safety levels in the target population group. The safety improvements from lighter safety devices outweigh any lulling effect of viewing products as being “childproof.” The regulation had a broader safety impact beyond the target population group, as it also reduced all types of injuries by at least 50% for children in the 5–17 age groups. Total annual risk reduction benefits were $940–$1465 million. A benefit-cost analysis based on a retrospective assessment of the regulation finds a more favorable impact than was anticipated.
The effect of self-reported balance confidence on community integration after brain injury: an observational study
Authors: Tucker Jenna , Marshall Timothy , Beitscher Ilana , Mueller Kristina , Colucio Eric , Koc Thomas A.
Published: May 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the correlation between self-reported balance confidence and community integration related to home management for community-dwelling adults with acquired brain injury (ABI).

Methods:

This is a study of 141 participants over the age of 18 with a history of ABI, living in the community, who completed an online survey. The survey included a series of demographic questions followed by the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) and the Home Integration subscale of the Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ-H).

Results:

Data from 119 completed surveys were included in the analysis. Significant positive correlations were found between the ABC and the CIQ-H total scores (rs = 0.241, p = 0.008). There was no significant difference between CIQ-H total scores in individuals by injury type (traumatic vs non-traumatic) or by level of severity (mild, moderate, severe) (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference between ABC total scores by injury type (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Higher levels of balance confidence may be associated with improved community integration related to home management for individuals with traumatic and non-traumatic BI. This study’s results support future research to evaluate the integration of strategies to improve balance confidence as a component of interdisciplinary assessment and rehabilitation to maximize community integration in community-dwelling adults with ABI.
Anti-Exceptionalism about Logic and the Burden of Explanation
Authors: Martin Ben
Published: May 2022

Considerable attention recently has been paid to anti-exceptionalism about logic (AEL), the thesis that logic is more similar to the sciences in important respects than traditionally thought. One of AEL’s prominent claims is that logic’s methodology is similar to that of the recognised sciences, with part of this proposal being that logics provide explanations in some sense. However, insufficient attention has been given to what this proposal amounts to, and the challenges that arise in providing an account of explanations in logic. This paper clarifies these challenges, and shows how the practice-based approach is best placed to meet them.
Balancing fraud analytics with legal requirements: Governance practices and trade-offs in public administrations
Authors: Simonofski Anthony , Tombal Thomas , De Terwangne Cécile , Willem Pauline , Frenay Benoît , Janssen Marijn
Published: May 2022

Fraud analytics refers to the use of advanced analytics (data mining, big data analysis, or artificial intelligence) to detect fraud. While fraud analytics offers the promise of more efficiency in fighting fraud, it also raises legal challenges related to data protection and administrative law. These legal requirements are well documented but the concrete way in which public administrations have integrated them remains unexplored. Due to the complexity of the techniques applied, it is crucial to understand the current state of practice and the accompanying challenges to develop appropriate governance mechanisms. The use of advanced analytics in organizations without appropriate organizational change can lead to ethical challenges and privacy issues. The goal of this article is to examine how these legal requirements are addressed in public administrations and to identify the challenges that emerge in doing so. For this, we examined two case studies related to fraud analytics from the Belgian Federal administration: the detection of tax frauds and social security infringements. This article details 15 governance practices that have been used in administrations. Furthermore, it highlights the complexity of integrating legal requirements with advanced analytics by identifying six key trade-offs between fraud analytics opportunities and legal requirements.
Social Determinants and Indicators of COVID-19 Among Marginalized Communities: A Scientific Review and Call to Action for Pandemic Response and Recovery
Authors: Brakefield Whitney S. , Olusanya Olufunto A. , White Brianna , Shaban-Nejad Arash
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has placed massive socio-psychological, health, and economic burdens including deaths on countless lives; however, it has disproportionally impacted certain populations. Co-occurring Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) disparities and other underlying determinants have exacerbated the COVID-19 pandemic. This literature review sought to (1) examine literature focused on SDoH and COVID-19 outcomes ie, infectivity, hospitalization, and death rates among marginalized communities; and (2) identify SDoH disparities associated with COVID-19 outcomes. We searched electronic databases for studies published from October 2019 to October 2021. Studies that were selected were those intersecting SDoH indicators and COVID-19 outcomes and were conducted in the United States. Our review underscored the disproportionate vulnerabilities and adverse outcomes from COVID-19 that have impacted racial/ethnic minority communities and other disadvantaged groups (ie, senior citizens, and displaced/homeless individuals). COVID-19 outcomes were associated with SDoH indicators, ie, race/ethnicity, poverty, median income level, housing density, housing insecurity, health-care access, occupation, transportation/commuting patterns, education, air quality, food insecurity, old age, etc. Our review concluded with recommendations and a call to action to integrate SDoH indicators along with relevant health data when implementing intelligent solutions and intervention strategies to pandemic response/recovery among vulnerable populations.
How to Navigate the Tricky Landscape of Sustainability Claims in the Food Sector
Authors: Arayess Sarah , de Boer Alie
Published: May 2022

Consumers are increasingly interested in the sustainability of food products, but so far, no specific European Union (EU) legislation has been developed to harmonise sustainability claims. We analyse which efforts already undertaken within the EU dealing with sustainability claims on products apply to sustainable food claims. We show that whilst sustainability can address three different dimensions (environmental, social and economic), it is crucial to clearly define sustainability in order to allow for the development of concrete regulations and guidance documents. EU legislative initiatives so far seem to be focused on environmental aspects, whilst Member States approach sustainability more broadly. At the same time, substantiation methods can only be successful when sustainability is well defined. We conclude that whilst there is a large range of initiatives taken at different levels, the foundation of these initiatives remains weak when there is no clear scope of terminology nor clarification of substantiation requirements. Currently existing self-regulatory initiatives could support protecting consumers from misleading claims by providing specific provisions for (food) business operators on how to make sustainability claims. Only when claims can be trusted and understood by consumers will they be able to make more sustainable purchase decisions. This plays an important role in the overall policy objective of the EU of climate neutrality by 2050.
Presidential Powers in Postcolonial Africa Deserve Historical Attention
Authors: Angelo Anaïs
Published: May 2022

African presidential powers fascinate: they have not only been extensively studied by political scientists, but they have also inspired novelists and filmmakers as much as they continue to attract the attention of journalists. Historians, however, have for a long time been rather disinterested in the issue. And yet, a question remains: upon independence, why did almost all African states adopt a presidential system of rule? This article reflects on the methodology and new questions a historical approach entails for the study of presidential powers in African postcolonial states. This article argues for the need to trace the origins of presidential powers, to depart from narratives of colonial legacies and exaggerated archetypes of African presidents, and to open new avenues for the conceptualization of both the decolonization process and the formation of postcolonial states in Africa.
Daoist Ecofeminism as a New Democracy: An Analysis of Patriarchy in Contemporary China and a Tentative Solution
Authors: Liu Jing
Published: May 2022

The pain caused by the patriarchal totalitarianism of different modern political regimes is felt by everyone in our time: poverty, unemployment, high exploitation of both nature and humans, systematic oppression, persecution and domination, and pollution that threatens human existence. This article analyzes the different forms of patriarchy in contemporary China and explores a feminist way out. The first part examines how modern patriarchy unfolds itself through the land-enclosure movement that has caused serious pollution in China. I will show that the patriarchal process of development is a double exploitation of both nature and humans. The second part turns to the patriarchy in traditional Chinese philosophies and explores possible dangers in Confucian feminism. In the last part I try to posit as a solution Daoist ecofeminism as a new democracy, wherein the feminist ontology and the freedom of all beings will be explored.
Carnivorous reptile feeding strategies and postmortem food-processing behaviors: tooth traces on bones from the Upper Triassic Grabowa Formation (southern Poland)
Authors: Sadlok Grzegorz
Published: May 2022

Carnivores make traces on bones with their teeth when feeding. A true predatory bite trace (predichnia) forms when a predator catches and kills its prey or attempts to do so. Both predators and scavengers may leave their nonpredatory feeding traces during postmortem food processing. Despite the interpretative uncertainties as to the ethology such ichnofossils may represent, the bite traces have been traditionally classified as predichnia—traces of predation. Previously, there was no alternative ethological category available for workers to classify them. The present paper fills that gap and describes tooth-made ichnofossils from the continental Upper Triassic Grabowa Formation of southern Poland. It discusses modes the serration and striations might have formed along Linichnus edges, potential makers of the trace fossils, feeding strategies, and food-processing behaviors the ichnites may represent. All the bite traces are thought to act as a record of carnivorous behaviors and are classified as sarcophagichnia, a new ethological category (traces of feeding on a body). Finally, all the studied bite traces were likely inflicted postmortem and are classified as necrophagichnia (traces of feeding on an already dead body), most likely produced by scavengers in the studied cases. Data on recent carnivores link these ichnites with postmortem food-processing behaviors, such as dismembering and defleshing. Scavenging could, in fact, have been a preferred carnivorous feeding strategy in the seasonal Norian climate of the area. Dry seasons could have perhaps increased vertebrate mortality rates and provided plenty of carcasses for carnivores to feed on.
Belief in territorial indivisibility and public preferences for dispute resolution
Authors: Fang Songying , Li Xiaojun , Tago Atsushi , Chiba Daina
Published: May 2022

This study investigates how individuals may develop more or less strong beliefs in the indivisibility of a disputed territory and how such beliefs may influence their policy preferences toward resolving the dispute. Using a survey experiment in Japan, we find that historical ownership strengthens respondents’ beliefs in territorial indivisibility. Furthermore, those who hold the strongest belief in territorial indivisibility are much less likely to support bilateral negotiation and more likely to support contentious policies, including but not limited to military actions. Finally, we explore external validity of the findings by analyzing respondents who had a real dispute in mind during the survey with China, South Korea, and Russia, respectively.
The Effect of Gender on Interruptions at Congressional Hearings
Authors: MILLER MICHAEL G. , SUTHERLAND JOSEPH L.
Published: May 2022

Women in Congress are highly effective legislators. Yet, if women are more likely than men to be interrupted during committee work, they may face a gender-related impediment. We examine speech patterns during more than 24,000 congressional committee hearings from 1994 to 2018 to determine whether women Members are more likely to be interrupted than men. We find that they are. This is especially true in Senate committees—where women are about 10% more likely to be interrupted. Furthermore, in hearings that discuss women’s issues, women are more than twice as likely to be interrupted than while discussing other issues. We see a similar pattern for rapid-fire “interruption clusters,” an aggressive form of interruption. We further consider a range of moderating factors, which yields little evidence that women change their communication strategy as they gain experience in Congress. We also find suggestive evidence that interruptions are driven by mixed-gender interactions.
Parental imprinting effects on growth traits and Kleiber ratio in sheep
Authors: Ghafouri-Kesbi F. , Mokhtari M. , Gholizadeh M. , Amiri Roudbar M. , Abbasi M. A.
Published: May 2022

The goal was to study imprinting effects on birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six months weight (W6), pre- and post-weaning growth rate (GRa and GRb), and pre- and post-weaning Kleiber ratio (KRa and KRb) in Baluchi and Makuie sheep breeds. Analyses were done in a two steps process. In the first step, each trait was analysed with a series of 12 univariate animal models, including different combinations of direct and maternal effects and the best model was selected by the AIC criterion. In the second step, three new models were fitted by adding either maternal imprinting effect, paternal imprinting effect, or both of them, respectively, to the best model already selected in the first step, and changes in AIC were monitored. (Co)variances between traits were estimated using bivariate analyses. In Baluchi sheep, for BW, WW and W6, estimates of maternal imprinting heritability (${\boldsymbol h}_{{\boldsymbol mi}}^2$) were 0.12 ± 0.02, 0.08 ± 0.01 and 0.09 ± 0.01, respectively. In Makuie sheep, paternal imprinting heritability (${\boldsymbol h}_{{\boldsymbol pi}}^2$) for BW, WW, W6, GRb and KRb were 0.17 ± 0.05, 0.8 ± 0.05, 0.38 ± 0.10, 0.71 ± 0.15 and 0.65 ± 0.13, respectively. In Baluchi sheep, strong maternal imprinting correlations were observed between BW and WW (0.93 ± 0.05), BW and W6 (0.80 ± 0.07) and WW and W6 (0.91 ± 0.02). In Makuie sheep, paternal imprinting correlations ranged from −0.97 ± 0.33 (BW-GRb) to 0.99 ± 0.47 (GRb-KRb). It was concluded that imprinting effects need to be included in the statistical model to increase the accuracy of genetic evaluation. However, to have accurate and reliable estimates of imprinting effects, the availability of large data sets and deep pedigrees are necessary.
Prevalence and factors associated with Anaemia in Married Women of Reproductive age group: Evidence from North East India
Authors: Mog Mithun , Neogi Debasis , Bharadwaz Mrinmoy Pratim , Panda Basant Kumar , Sil Apyapee
Published: May 2022

The prevalence of anaemia and its continuous growth, especially among women, is a global health concern. The present study aims to examine the prevalence of anaemia and its determinants in the North Eastern region of India. The study used secondary data from the National Family Health Survey 2015-2016 on women of reproductive age group in India. The data were adjusted for sampling weight, stratification and cluster sampling design for analysis. Binary logistic regression and multivariable regression analysis were performed to determine factors associated with anaemia. Of the 65941 participants, 25993 (40%) had anaemia. High prevalence of mild or moderate anaemia was found among women with following socio-demographic characteristics: residing in the rural area (41.20%), having no education (43.07%), belonging to the low-income family (43.39%), having a well as source of drinking water (46.29%), using the traditional method of contraception (44.55%), underweight (42.18%) and those who had first delivery before 20 years of age (40.66%). Logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio) showed that women in the following categories were more likely to develop anaemia: in the age-group of 35-49 years, with no education, with poor wealth, having low nutrition levels; using traditional contraception and women who ate pulses or fish once a week. Alarming rates of anaemia (two in every five), found in the study, need effective strategies for fortification of iron supplement among women. Generation of mass awareness in this regard by utilizing the ongoing adolescent, maternal, child health and nutrition programmes will help in reducing the incidence of anaemia among women.
Dictatorships, Coffee and Bananas: The Political Economy of Sovereign Debt in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, 1871−1911
Authors: Weller Leonardo
Published: May 2022

Costa Rica suspended payments on its London debt in 1901, at the beginning of a democratisation process and during a crisis in the world coffee market. Meanwhile, autocratic Nicaragua, also a coffee exporter, continued paying its foreign creditors. This article assesses the causes of these distinct outcomes, which are at odds with the influential hypothesis that democracy makes for better borrowers. Strongly represented in Congress, Costa Rica's coffee elite pushed for the end of a tax on coffee as the legislative became more powerful. The executive had used that revenue to service the debt, which went on default as a consequence. Politics were radically different in Nicaragua: coffee growers were weaker and President Zelaya ruled without legislative tutelage. Hence, his government could raise a similar tax to honour the sovereign debt. With a clean record, the dictator borrowed abroad to build a modern army, the backbone of his autocratic regime.
Copepods of the off-shore waters of Caribbean Colombian Sea and their response to oceanographic regulators
Authors: Dorado-Roncancio Edgar Fernando , Medellín-Mora Johanna , Mancera-Pineda José Ernesto , Pizarro-Koch Matías
Published: May 2022

Seven oceanographic expeditions were conducted between the years 2013 and 2018 to determine the horizontal and vertical distribution schemes in the epipelagic and mesopelagic copepod community structure of the Caribbean Oceanic ecoregion (CAO) and the oceanographic variables that regulate it. Four indicator species are suggested for the North Equatorial Current and the Caribbean Surface Water (CSW) mass (Clausocalanus furcatus,Oncaea venusta,Temora styliferaandT. turbinate) and two indicator species for deep-water masses such as the Western North Atlantic Central Water (NACW) and the Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW) (Mormonilla phasmaandConaea rapax). The copepod assemblage responds to local oceanographic patterns that are regulated (24%) by the variability of dissolved oxygen and temperature in the water column. The horizontal structure of the copepod assemblage in offshore waters presented a spatial sectorization. Three zones were differentiated: (1) oceanic Colombian zone; (2) influence of the Magdalena River zone; and (3) offshore north-east zone. Water mass mixing processes and migration mechanisms favour the homogeneity of the vertical assemblage of copepods in the CAO ecoregion. This study provides relevant information on the structure and density of copepod species, providing key information to describe the ecological processes and the different responses to the oceanographic factors that modulate them.
“You and me against the world”: Direct-inverse morphology in Rma (Qiang)
Authors: Sims Nathaniel A.
Published: May 2022

The aim of this short paper is to examine the morphological categories of direction and direct-inverse marking in Northwestern Rma/Qiang (< Trans-Himalayan/Sino-Tibetan). Based on evidence from published sources (LaPolla and Huang 2003; H. Sūn 1981; Liú 1998, 1999; Sun and Evans 2013), it is argued that the verbal systems of some northern varieties are more characteristic of hierarchical alignment than previously recognized.
A longitudinal investigation of the effects of language instruction versus immersion on cognitive functions in young adult Chinese speakers learning English
Authors: Xia Lihua , Bak Thomas H. , Vega-Mendoza Mariana , Sorace Antonella
Published: May 2022

The current study examined cognitive effects of two pathways of second language (L2) acquisition longitudinally in Chinese speakers learning English in an L2-dominant environment. Thirty-nine participants who attended an intensive 10-week English course (L2-instruction group) were compared to 38 participants who attended regular university courses taught in English (L2-immersion group). Four repeated assessments were conducted over 10 weeks: precourse (baseline) and postcourse assessments, and two interim assessments every 3 weeks. Both groups matched on background variables (e.g., intelligence) and showed comparable cognitive performance in all measures at the baseline. The longitudinal results showed a similar improvement in both groups for most cognitive measures, such as visual and auditory inhibition. The only significant group difference was observed in the auditory inhibition test, where the L2-instruction group outperformed the L2-immersion group. Taken together, our results suggest a specific effect of language experience and an overall effect of linguistic context on cognitive functions.