bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real Estate Insights The increasing importance of the “S” dimension in ESG
Authors: Newell Graeme
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Environment, social and governance (ESG) has taken on increased importance in recent years. This paper assesses the increasing importance of the social (“S”) dimension of ESG in the real estate space and the strategies being used by the leading real estate players to deliver this important aspect of ESG. This includes gender equality, cultural diversity, staff wellness, supply chain management and community engagement. It also indicates the need for an increased level of metrics in the S space for the effective delivery and external validation of the S dimension into real estate investment decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on a thorough understanding of the ESG environment in the real estate industry by the author. Best practice examples regarding the S dimension are given from the ESG/sustainability reports from real estate players in Australia who are leaders in the ESG space.

Findings

Excellent examples of the delivery of the S dimension are reported from the ESG/sustainability reports from the real estate industry. Whilst there is an increasing range of S information being reported in the real estate industry, there is a need for more metrics to effectively report this S information to indicate its key role in seeing the S dimension being delivered for the fuller integration of ESG at all levels of the real estate industry. The external validation of this S information will also take on increased importance going forward.

Practical implications

With ESG becoming a critical issue in the real estate sector, issues involved in the S space will take on increased significance. This is critical, as the elements of the S dimension such as gender equality, cultural diversity, staff wellness, community engagement and supply chain management are important aspects for an effectively functioning real estate industry. More metrics in the S space will be an important development to further expand the delivery and external validation of the S space of ESG.

Originality/value

This paper is the first paper to specifically address the need for more focus on delivering the S dimension of ESG in the real estate industry, highlighted by best practice examples from the real estate industry in Australia. This is a key issue for the real estate industry going forward at all levels to facilitate more effective real estate investment decision-making.
A Conceptual Framework for Optimizing the Equity of Hospital‐Based Emergency Care: The Structure of Hospital Transfer Networks
Authors: HSUAN CHARLEEN , CARR BRENDAN G. , VANNESS DAVID , WANG YINAN , LESLIE DOUGLAS L. , DUNHAM ELEANOR , ROGOWSKI JEANNETTE A.
Published: March 2023

Policy Points

Current pay‐for‐performance and other payment policies ignore hospital transfers for emergency conditions, which may exacerbate disparities.

No conceptual framework currently exists that offers a patient‐centered, population‐based perspective for the structure of hospital transfer networks.

The hospital transfer network equity‐quality framework highlights the external and internal factors that determine the structure of hospital transfer networks, including structural inequity and racism.

Context

Emergency care includes two key components: initial stabilization and transfer to a higher level of care. Significant work has focused on ensuring that local facilities can stabilize patients. However, less is understood about transfers for definitive care. To better understand how transfer network structure impacts population health and equity in emergency care, we proposea conceptual framework, the hospital transfer network equity‐quality model (NET‐EQUITY). NET‐EQUITY can help optimize population outcomes, decrease disparities, and enhance planning by supporting a framework for understanding emergency department transfers.

Methods

To develop the NET‐EQUITY framework, we synthesized work on health systems and quality of health care (Donabedian, the Institute of Medicine, Ferlie, and Shortell) and the research framework of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities with legal and empirical research.

Findings

The central thesis of our framework is that the structure of hospital transfer networks influences patient outcomes, as defined by the Institute of Medicine, which includes equity. The structure of hospital transfer networks is shaped by internal and external factors. The four main external factors are the regulatory, economic environment, provider, and sociocultural and physical/built environment. These environments all implicate issues of equity that are important to understand to foster an equitable population‐based system of emergency care. The framework highlights external and internal factors that determine the structure of hospital transfer networks, including structural racism and inequity.

Conclusions

The NET‐EQUITY framework provides a patient‐centered, equity‐focused framework for understanding the health of populations and how the structure of hospital transfer networks can influence the quality of care that patients receive.
Federal–local partnerships on immigration law enforcement: Are the policies effective in reducing violent victimization?
Authors: Baumer Eric P. , Xie Min
Published: March 2023

Research Summary

Our understanding of how immigration enforcement impacts crime has been informed exclusively by data from police crime statistics. This study complements existing research by using longitudinal multilevel data from the National Crime Victimization Survey for 2005–2014 to simultaneously assess the impact of the three predominant immigration policies that have been implemented in local communities. The results indicate that the activation of Secure Communities and 287(g) task force agreements significantly increased violent victimization risk among Latinos, whereas they showed no evident impact on victimization risk among non‐Latino Whites and Blacks. The activation of 287(g) jail enforcement agreements and anti‐detainer policies had no significant impact on violent victimization risk during the period.

Policy Implications

Contrary to their stated purpose of enhancing public safety, our results show that the Secure Communities program and 287(g) task force agreements did not reduce crime, but instead eroded security in U.S. communities by increasing the likelihood that Latinos experienced violent victimization. These results support the Federal government's ending of 287(g) task force agreements and its more recent move to end the Secure Communities program. Additionally, the results of our study add to the evidence challenging claims that anti‐detainer policies pose a threat to violence risk.
Effects of prenatal exposure to maternal diabetes mellitus on deep grey matter structures and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children
Authors: Nivins Samson , Klingberg Torkel
Published: March 2023

Aim

The neuronal mechanism linking the association between maternal diabetes mellitus (DM) and risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and working memory deficits in children was investigated.

Methods

A total of 6291 children (52% boys) born beyond 28 weeks of gestation were included and underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging scans at 9–10 years. Subcortical brain volumes were estimated from the T1‐weighted images. ADHD symptoms were assessed using factorial analysis of the Child Behaviour Checklist completed by parents/caregivers. Working memory performance was assessed with the NIH Toolbox.

Results

Compared to unexposed children, those exposed to DM (n = 422) had smaller (β = −0.15, p = 0.001) volumes of pooled deep grey matter (GM). Regional analysis revealed smaller volumes of the caudate nucleus, putamen, thalamus and cerebellum but not of hippocampus. They also had altered cortico‐striatal white matter projection tracts. DM was not associated with working memory deficits or inattention, but with increased hyperactivity/impulsivity and Sluggish Cognitive Tempo symptoms in boys. This hyperactivity/impulsivity symptom in boys was partially mediated by smaller deep GM volume.

Conclusion

Exposure to DM during pregnancy leads to altered deep GM development during late childhood in their offspring. This contributed to an increased risk of hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms in boys.
Treatment with methylphenidate and the risk of fractures among children and young people: A systematic review and self‐controlled case series study
Authors: Gao Le , Man Kenneth K. C. , Fan Min , Ge Grace M. Q. , Lau Wallis C. Y. , Cheung Ching‐Lung , Coghill David , Ip Patrick , Wong Kirstie H. T. W. , Wong Ian C. K.
Published: March 2023

Aims

Animal studies suggest that methylphenidate treatment for around 3 months may lead to less mineralized and weaker appendicular bones. A systematic review was conducted to summarize the evidence from observational studies, and a self‐controlled case series study was used to compare the risk before and after treatment initiation.

Methods

Literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library to identify observational studies on methylphenidate and fractures. We also conducted a self‐controlled case series study with individuals aged 5–24 years who received methylphenidate treatment and experienced fractures from 2001 to 2020 in Hong Kong. Incidence rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated by comparing the incidence rate in the methylphenidate‐exposed period compared with nonexposed period.

Results

Six cohort studies and 2 case–control studies were included in the systematic review. For all‐cause fractures, studies found a 39–74% lower risk in treated‐attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) group compared with untreated ADHD but no difference between stimulants and nonstimulants. Differences between sexes and treatment duration were also found—significant results were shown in males and those with longer treatment duration. Among 43 841 individuals with ADHD medication before the year 2020, 2023 were included in the self‐controlled case series analysis. The risks of fractures were lower by 32–41% in different treatment periods when compared with 6 months before treatment initiation.

Conclusion

Methylphenidate treatment may lower the risk of all‐cause fractures from both study designs; however, further evidence is needed about the treatment duration and sex effect. Conclusions on stress fractures are not yet established, and further research is required.
Discrepancies between dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase phenotyping and genotyping: What are the explanatory factors?
Authors: Arrivé Capucine , Fonrose Xavier , Thomas Fabienne , Roth Gaël , Jacquet Emmanuelle , Brice Aurélie , Chirica Carole , Farneti Delphine , Frenoux Coralie , Stanke‐Labesque Françoise , Gautier‐Veyret Elodie
Published: March 2023

Aim

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency can be detected by phenotyping (measurement of plasma uracil [U], with U ≥ 16 μg/L defining a partial deficiency) and/or by genotyping (screening for the four most frequent DPYD variants). We aimed to determine the proportion of discrepancies between phenotypic and genotypic approaches and to identify possible explanatory factors.

Methods

Data from patients who underwent both phenotyping and genotyping were retrospectively collected. Complementary genetic analyses (genotyping of the variant c.557A>G and DPYD sequencing) were performed for patients with U ≥ 16 μg/L without any common variants. The characteristics of patients classified according to the congruence of the phenotyping and genotyping approaches were compared (Kruskal–Wallis test), and determinants of U levels were studied in the whole cohort (linear model).

Results

Among the 712 included patients, phenotyping and genotyping were discordant for 12.5%, with 63 (8.8%) having U ≥ 16 μg/L in the absence of a common variant. Complementary genetic investigations marginally reduced the percentage of discrepancies to 12.1%: Among the nine additional identified variants, only the c.557A>G variant, carried by three patients, had been previously reported to be associated with DPD deficiency. Liver dysfunction could explain certain discordances, as ASAT, ALP, GGT and bilirubin levels were significantly elevated, with more frequent liver metastases in patients with U ≥ 16 μg/L and the absence of a DPYD variant. The impact of cytolysis was confirmed, as ASAT levels were independently associated with increased U (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The frequent discordances between DPD phenotyping and genotyping approaches highlight the need to perform these two approaches to screen for all DPD deficiencies.
Why we need to re‐define long‐term success for people living with HIV
Authors: Fuster‐RuizdeApodaca Maria J. , Wohl David A. , Cascio Mario , Guaraldi Giovanni , Rockstroh Jürgen , Hodson Matthew , Richman Bruce , Brown Gina , Anderson Jane , Lazarus Jeffrey V.
Published: March 2023

Over the past few decades, the life expectancy of people living with HIV has markedly improved due to the advances in HIV diagnosis, linkage to care, and treatment. However, with these advances, a new set of challenges has emerged that must be addressed to ensure the long‐term well‐being of people living with HIV. In this article, as part of a wider journal supplement, we explore the unmet needs and challenges across the HIV continuum of care and re‐define what long‐term success looks like to support the healthy ageing of all people affected by HIV.
Video‐based paired comparison to evaluate some cosmetic products under camera movement for dynamic performance
Authors: Yokoyama Emilie , Francois Ghislain , Harrar Margalith , Bachatene Chafik , Udodaira Kumiko , Trévisan Solène , Nicolas Alexandre , Velleman Damien , Flament Frederic
Published: March 2023

Objective

Until now, standardized evaluation of cosmetic effects was conducted mainly in still conditions such as pictures. In real life, the consumers' experience of their cosmetics' effects is dynamic and some of the benefits can be better observed under movement. In order to capture motion‐related performance of cosmetics, we developed a video‐based paired comparison on an online platform.

Methods

We validated this new tool through the evaluation of eyeshadow with high light reflection and colour gradation, especially visible under motion according to the observer point of view. This formula was compared with two marketed benchmarks. The three products were applied sequentially on the eyelid of eight Japanese women. Videos were taken in standardized light, speed and face position with a rotating camera around the face. The videos were uploaded on an online secured platform and eyelid 3D effect, highlight and colour gradation were evaluated through paired comparison test by 60 Japanese women from home on their PC or tablets. Those results were compared with picture‐based paired comparison by the same observers.

Results

Video‐based paired comparison provided higher discrimination of products compared to picture‐based comparison.

Conclusion

As compared to still camera acquisition, the evaluation of cosmetics based on videos is closer to real‐life experience and can bring higher discrimination, especially for motion‐related attributes.
The role of standard‐setting organizations in deciding product quality and process innovation
Authors: Nabin Munirul , Sgro Pasquale , Lahiri Surjasama
Published: March 2023

We analyze the effect that the presence of a standard‐setting organization (SSO) has on firms' choices of product quality and costly research and development (R&D) investment when consumers face uncertainty regarding product standardization. We construct a theoretical model with competing firms and compare frameworks where: (i) an SSO is exogenously absent and (ii) an SSO is present. Our first finding is a negative relationship between firms' product‐quality choices and R&D investment. The presence of the SSO standardizes quality which can be profitable for firms. Finally, we find conditions where the presence of an SSO could lead to welfare enhancement.
Molecular spectrum of α‐ and β‐thalassemia among individuals of reproductive age in the Zhuhai region of southern China
Authors: Wang Xingmin , Huang Haoyang , Zhao Yanling , Zhou Yuqiu , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Ge
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Thalassemia is the most common monogenic disease in South and Southeast Asia. An accurate assessment of the relative frequency and composition of thalassemia mutations is important for the design of appropriate strategies to prevent the disease. In this study, we aimed to decode the molecular characterization of thalassemia mutations in Zhuhai region of southern China.

Methods

A total of 8048 individuals who were potential thalassemia carriers were enrolled. Gap‐polymerase chain reaction (Gap‐PCR) and reverse dot‐blot (RDB) hybridization methods were employed to detect common deletional and non‐deletional thalassemia mutations. Multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and Sanger sequencing were used to analyze and verify rare and complex mutations.

Results

We diagnosed 3433 individuals as thalassemia carriers or patients. Of these, 2395 (69.76%) individuals with α‐thalassemia harbored 13 α‐globin gene mutations. The three most common α‐thalassemia mutations were ‐‐SEA (60.08%), ‐α3.7 (20.62%) and ‐α4.2 (9.25%). We diagnosed 903 (26.30%) individuals with β‐thalassemia and identified 20 β‐globin gene mutations, of which the three most frequent were CD41/42 (‐TCTT) (38.10%), IVS‐II‐654 (C>T) (23.69%) and TATAbox‐28 (A>G) (15.18%). In addition, we identified 15 rare thalassemia variants. We also summarized the association between the thalassemia genotype and hematological parameters, which demonstrated the broad phenotypic heterogeneity caused by globin gene mutations.

Conclusion

This is the first survey of thalassemia molecular epidemiology and hematological phenotype in Zhuhai region. It uncovered a high prevalence and complex molecular spectrum of thalassemia. These findings can be used as a basis for thalassemia diagnosis, counseling and prevention management.
Metabolic regulation of the circadian clock in classically and alternatively activated macrophages
Authors: Honzlová Petra , Sumová Alena
Published: March 2023

Macrophages exhibit a range of functional pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory states that induce changes in their cellular metabolism. We aimed to elucidate whether these changes affect the molecular properties of their circadian clock focusing on their anti‐inflammatory phenotype. Primary cell cultures of bone marrow–derived macrophages (BMDMs; nonpolarized M0 BMDM) from PER2::LUC (fusion protein of PERIOD2 and LUCIFERASE) mice were polarized into the M1 (proinflammatory) or M2 (anti‐inflammatory) phenotype, and PER2‐driven bioluminescence was recorded in real‐time at the cell‐population and single‐cell levels. Viability, clock gene expression profiles, polarization plasticity and peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ (PPARγ) protein levels were analyzed. The effects of pharmacological activation/inhibition of PPARγ (rosiglitazone/GW9662) and inhibition of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) by etomoxir in M2 BMDM cell cultures were examined. The parameters of PER2‐driven bioluminescence rhythms differed between M0, M1 and M2 BMDM cultures at cell‐population and single‐cell levels. Compared with M0, polarization to M2 did not change the period but increased amplitude, mean bioluminescence level and rhythm persistence. Polarization to M1 shortened the period but had no effect on the amplitude of the rhythm. The same period changes were observed after a bidirectional switch between M1‐ and M2‐polarized states in the same culture. Both PPARγ activation/inhibition and FAO inhibition modulated the clock in M2 BMDMs, suggesting metabolic regulation of the M2 clock. Our results indicate that bidirectional changes in the properties of BMDM circadian clocks in response to their actual polarization are mediated via changes in their metabolic state. They provide new information on the interrelationship between the BMDM polarization, their circadian clock and cellular metabolism.
Barcoding, linear and nonlinear analysis of full‐day leg movements in infants with typical development and infants at risk of developmental disabilities: Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Deng Weiyang , Marmelat Vivien , Vanderbilt Douglas L. , Gennaro Federico , Smith Beth A.
Published: March 2023

Traditional methods do not capture the multidimensional domains and dynamic nature of infant behavioral patterns. We aim to compare full‐day, in‐home leg movement data between infants with typical development (TD) and infants at risk of developmental disabilities (AR) using barcoding and nonlinear analysis. Eleven infants with TD (2–10 months) and nine infants AR (adjusted age: 2–14 months) wore a sensor on each ankle for 7 days. We calculated the standard deviation for linear variability and sample entropy (SampEn) of leg acceleration and angular velocity for nonlinear variability. Movements were also categorized into 16 barcoding states, and we calculated the SampEn and proportions of the barcoding. All variables were compared between the two groups using independent‐samples t‐test or Mann‐Whitney U test. The AR group had larger linear variability compared to the TD group. SampEn was lower in the AR group compared to TD group for both acceleration and angular velocity. Two barcoding states’ proportions were significantly different between the two groups. The results showed that nonlinear analysis and barcoding could be used to identify the difference of dynamic multidimensional movement patterns between infants AR and infants with TD. This information may help early diagnosis of developmental disabilities in the future.
Oxidation behaviors of low carbon MgO‐C refractories: Roles of Ti2AlC and Ti2AlN
Authors: Chen Junfeng , Du Yifei , Zhang Yu , Nath Mithun , Yan Wen , Wei Yaowu , Zhang Shaowei , Li Nan
Published: March 2023

In this study, Ti2AlC/Ti2AlN powders were first incorporated to fabricate low‐carbon MgO‐C refractories, and their oxidation behaviors were investigated. Computed tomography (CT) results indicated that stress cracks only occurred in the Ti2AlC‐added sample after exposure to 1100°C, and the anomalous oxidation behavior of Ti2AlC powder at 578°C worsened the oxidation result at 1100°C for MgO‐C refractories with Ti2AlC. At 1500°C, the oxidation behaviors of MgO‐Ti2AlC/Ti2AlN‐C samples revealed a slight mass gain due to the disintegration of Ti2AlC/Ti2AlN, and their oxidation resistances increased by 18% as compared to their counterparts. In addition, the role of Ti2AlC/Ti2AlN was elucidated. The oxidation process was comprehensive and was mainly determined by the deterioration of carbon and MAX phases. The obtained results indicated that Ti2AlN was more suitable for fabricating low‐carbon MgO‐C refractories as compared with Ti2AlC.
Data‐driven learning: English as a foreign language writing and complexity, accuracy and fluency measures
Authors: Şahin Kızıl Aysel
Published: March 2023

Background

Data‐driven learning (DDL) has been regarded as one of the promising approaches that could effectively enhance writing performance of English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. Although extensive research has been conducted on the use of DDL in developing various aspects of writing skill, there exist only few studies to date that focus on DDL for revising writing despite its great potential for revision. Furthermore, among the existing studies, very few investigated DDL at revision stage by referring to complexity, accuracy and fluency (CAF) measures which are objective and reliable indices of writing quality, and none has examined these three CAF measures jointly as an index of writing development.

Objectives

With the purpose of addressing these gaps, the present article describes an instructional design which integrates DDL into the writing process of EFL learners who were taught how to exploit corpus data in revising their writings and then reports on the effects of such a design on their actual learning outcomes as measured in CAF.

Methodology

In a quasi‐experimental between‐group pre‐test/post‐test design, 31 tertiary level EFL students were divided into experimental (DDL) and control (non‐DDL) groups. Experimental group was instructed on corpus consultation to revise their writings while the control group followed the conventional practices of using dictionaries, textbooks and teacher explanations in revising their writings. Writing performance of each group was analysed based on CAF measures and compared through one‐way between‐group multivariate analysis of covariance.

Results and Conclusions

The findings showed that DDL used for writing revision had a significant, positive effect on fluency and lexical complexity as DDL group outperformed the non‐DDL group in producing lexically diverse and fluent writings. However, no statistically significant evidence was found favouring the effect on DDL on accuracy and grammatical complexity.
Development and validation of robust metabolism‐related gene signature in the prognostic prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pan Yangxun , Zhang Deyao , Chen Yuheng , Li Huake , Wang Jiongliang , Yuan Ze , Sun Liyang , Zhou Zhongguo , Chen Minshan , Zhang Yaojun , Hu Dandan
Published: March 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide. Given metabolic reprogramming in tumours was a crucial hallmark, several studies have demonstrated its value in the diagnostics and surveillance of malignant tumours. The present study aimed to identify a cluster of metabolism‐related genes to construct a prediction model for the prognosis of HCC. Multiple cohorts of HCC cases (466 cases) from public datasets were included in the present analysis. (GEO cohort) After identifying a list of metabolism‐related genes associated with prognosis, a risk score based on metabolism‐related genes was formulated via the LASSO‐Cox and LASSO‐pcvl algorithms. According to the risk score, patients were stratified into low‐ and high‐risk groups, and further analysis and validation were accordingly conducted. The results revealed that high‐risk patients had a significantly worse 5‐year overall survival (OS) than low‐risk patients in the GEO cohort. (30.0% vs. 57.8%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.411; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.302–0.651; p < 0.001) This observation was confirmed in the external TCGA‐LIHC cohort. (34.5% vs. 54.4%; HR 0.452; 95% CI, 0.299–0.681; p < 0.001) To promote the predictive ability of the model, risk score, age, gender and tumour stage were integrated into a nomogram. According to the results of receiver operating characteristic curves and decision curves analysis, the nomogram score possessed a superior predictive ability than conventional factors, which indicate that the risk score combined with clinicopathological features was able to achieve a robust prediction for OS and improve the individualized clinical decision making of HCC patients. In conclusion, the metabolic genes related to OS were identified and developed a metabolism‐based predictive model for HCC. Through a series of bioinformatics and statistical analyses, the predictive ability of the model was approved.
Aligning Organizational Priorities and System Policies to Support Implementation Scale‐Up of a Tailored Classroom‐Based Physical Activity Intervention in Low‐Resource Schools*
Authors: Hasson Rebecca E. , Eisman Andria B. , Wassmann Amy , Beemer Lexie R. , Templin Thomas , Malinoff Lynn , Zernicke Ronald , Rabaut Lisa
Published: March 2023

Background

A mismatch between organizational priorities and system‐level policies can negatively impact implementation and sustainment of classroom‐based physical activity (PA) interventions. The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) present methods to systematically identify organization‐ and system‐level implementation barriers, and (2) align organizational priorities and system policies by designing multi‐level implementation strategies. This alignment will support implementation scale‐up of a tailored PA intervention in one low‐resource intermediate school district (ISD; 16 districts, 32 schools) in central Michigan.

Methods

Multi‐level assessments of organizational readiness were conducted using the Hexagon Discussion and Analysis Tool to assess intervention‐context fit, the Wellness School Assessment Tool 3.0 to evaluate district PA policy strength and comprehensiveness, and semi‐structured interviews were conducted to assess administrative support and priorities related to PA programming.

Results

Our assessments revealed three implementation barriers: limited structural capacity to sustain teacher training, limited resources across districts and school buildings to support teachers, and misalignment of ISD and district PA policies and priorities.

Conclusions

Greater attention to organizational capacity and existing infrastructure should be considered a priori to support effective implementation and sustainment of PA interventions in low‐resource schools.
Intracerebral hirudin injection alleviates cognitive impairment and oxidative stress and promotes hippocampal neurogenesis in rats subjected to cerebral ischemia
Authors: Xia Xianfeng , Li Min , Wei Renxian , Li Jin , Lei Yulin , Zhang Meikui
Published: March 2023

Cerebral ischemia starts with cerebral blood flow interruption that causes severely limited oxygen and glucose supply, eliciting a cascade of pathological events, such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, calcium dysregulation, and inflammatory response, which could ultimately result in neuronal death. Hirudin has beneficial effects in ischemic stroke and possesses antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Therefore, we investigated the biological functions of hirudin and its related mechanisms in cerebral ischemia. The ischemia‐like conditions were induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). To investigate hirudin roles, intracerebroventricular injection of 10 U hirudin was given to the rats. Cognitive and motor functions were examined by beam walking and Morris water maze tests. 2,3,5‐triphenyl tetrazolium chloride‐stained brain sections were used to measure infarct volume. Oxidative stress was determined by assessment of oxidative stress markers. The proliferated cells were labeled by BrdU and Nestin double staining. Western blotting was performed to measure protein levels. Hirudin administration improved cognitive and motor deficits post‐ischemia. Hirudin reduced brain infarction and neurological damage in MCAO‐subjected rats. Hirudin alleviated oxidative stress and enhanced neurogenesis in ischemic rats. Hirudin facilitated the promotion of phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and serine‐threonine kinase. In sum, hirudin alleviates cognitive deficits by attenuating oxidative stress and promoting hippocampal neurogenesis through the regulation of ERK1/2 and serine‐threonine kinase in MCAO‐subjected rats.
Anatomical phenotype of obstructive sleep apnea patients based on cluster analysis
Authors: Huang Liping , Xu Ying , Gong Xu , Gao Xuemei
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To generate a novel subtype of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) based on anatomical features and verify the differences in the response of different subtypes to orthodontic treatment, thus providing a theoretical reference for clinical decision‐making.

Materials and Methods

A K‐means cluster analysis was performed for this retrospective serial study, which includes 722 OSA patients, aged 44.0 (36.0, 54.0) years, 80.2% male, with apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) of 23.2 (13.4, 39.6) events·h−1, and body mass index (BMI) of 25.47 ± 3.00 kg·m−2. All samples were divided into three subtypes based on AHI, BMI, and five variables of craniofacial measurements. Sixty‐seven cases with mandibular advancement devices (MAD) therapeutic results were further applied to validate the efficacy and side effects of this treatment in different subtypes.

Results

Two hundred and thirty patients (31.9%) were characterized as cluster 1: AHI of 17.65 (11.80, 30.42) events·h−1, BMI of 23.65 ± 2.62 kg·m−2, with skeletal Class II high‐angle shape. Cluster 2 included 278 patients (38.5%): AHI of 17.00 (11.00, 26.48) events·h−1, BMI of 25.36 ± 2.53 kg·m−2, soft palate length (SPL) of 39.25 mm (36.12, 42.20), with basically normal skeleton and normal airway size. Cluster 3, consisting of 214 patients (29.6%), exhibited a combination of anatomical deformity and obesity, with the highest AHI and BMI of 45.35 (30.42, 62.53) events·h−1 and 27.57 ± 2.59 kg·m−2 respectively, but less deformity degree than cluster 1. Cluster 2 had the highest response rate and relatively mild side effects with MAD.

Conclusions

Orthodontic treatment based on anatomical morphology could exert a better effect on mild‐moderate OSA patients with mild skeletal deformity.
On the existence of moral certainties: The case of the pisa‐suaves
Authors: Galli Enrico
Published: March 2023

Recently, José María Ariso and Samuel Laves have critically debated whether killing innocent and non‐threatening people [=WK] is a universal moral certainty. One of the main topics of their discussion concerns the case of the pisa‐suaves, children born in the context of the Colombian civil war who grew up with the FARC guerrillas. While Laves argues that such children hold WK, Ariso rejects his claim and stresses that pisa‐suaves have no moral code of conduct. In my work, I side with Laves and contend that WK is a universal moral certainty. Accordingly, I maintain that (i) either pisa‐suaves possess WK and thereby count as human moral agents, or (ii) if they do not possess any moral code of conduct, then they cannot count as human moral agents and, in turn, their existence does not undermine WK's universality.
Herbicide residues in soil decrease microbe‐mediated plant protection
Authors: Fuchs B. , Saikkonen K. , Damerau A. , Yang B. , Helander M.
Published: March 2023

The residues of glyphosate are found to remain in soils longer than previously reported, affecting rhizosphere microbes. This may adversely affect crop and other non‐target plants because the plant's resilience and resistance largely rely on plant‐associated microbes. Ubiquitous glyphosate residues in soil and how they impact mutualistic microbes inhabiting the aboveground plant parts are largely unexplored.

We studied the effects of herbicide residues in soil on Epichloë sp., which are common endophytic symbionts inhabiting aerial parts of cool‐season grasses. In this symbiosis, the obligate symbiont subsists entirely on its host plant, and in exchange, it provides alkaloids conferring resistance to herbivores for the host grass that invests little in its own chemical defence.

We first show decreased growth of Epichloë endophytes in vitro when directly exposed to two concentrations of glyphosate or glyphosate‐based herbicides. Second, we provide evidence for a reduction of Epichloë‐derived, insect‐toxic loline alkaloids in endophyte‐symbiotic meadow fescue (F. pratensis) plants growing in soil with a glyphosate history. Plants were grown for 2 years in an open field site, and natural herbivore infestation was correlated with the glyphosate‐mediated reduction of loline alkaloid concentrations.

Our findings indicate that herbicides residing in soil not only affect rhizosphere microbiota but also aerial plant endophyte functionality, which emphasizes the destructive effects of glyphosate on plant symbiotic microbes, here with cascading effects on plant–pest insect interactions.
Causal theories of the moving spotlight
Authors: Jhou Nihel H.
Published: March 2023

This paper brings together the Sarvāstivāda (a major school of Abhidharma Buddhism) and Miller's (2019) moving spotlight theory to see how presentness is explained in terms of causation. The paper argues that a causal theory of presentness like Miller's encounters a dilemma: causation is either synchronic or diachronic, but neither is safe in the presence of the challenges. On the one hand, if causation is synchronic, how does a causal chain extend over time so that the wave of causation (and hence the spotlight) can move at all? On the other, if causation is diachronic, then a present moment has a temporal extension enough to accommodate a cause and its proximate effect. The paper proposes a synchronic notion of causation that counters the first challenge. This can be done by bringing together the Sarvāstivādin grasp‐production model of causation, some Stoic ideas about causation, and some Armstrong's metaphysics.
Stokes flow solutions in infinite and semi‐infinite porous channels
Authors: Bernardi Francesca , Chellam Shankararaman , Cogan N. G. , Moore M. N. J.
Published: March 2023

We derive a class of exact solutions for Stokes flow in infinite and semi‐infinite channel geometries with permeable walls. These simple, explicit, series expressions for both pressure and Stokes flow are valid for all permeability values. At the channel walls, we impose a no‐slip condition for the tangential fluid velocity and a condition based on Darcy's law for the normal fluid velocity. Fluid flow across the channel boundaries is driven by the pressure drop between the channel interior and exterior; we assume the exterior pressure to be constant. We show how the ground state is an exact solution in the infinite channel case. For the semi‐infinite channel domain, the ground‐state solutions approximate well the full exact solution in the bulk and we derive a method to improve their accuracy at the transverse wall. This study is motivated by the need to quantitatively understand the detailed fluid dynamics applicable in a variety of engineering applications including membrane‐based water purification, heat and mass transfer, and fuel cells.
Existence of solutions to gas expansion problem through a sharp corner for 2‐D Euler equations with general equation of state
Authors: Barthwal R. , Sekhar T. Raja
Published: March 2023

In this article, we study the gas expansion problem by turning a sharp corner into a vacuum for the two‐dimensional (2‐D) pseudosteady compressible Euler equations with a convex equation of state. This problem can be considered as the interaction of a centered simple wave with a planar rarefaction wave. To obtain the global existence of a solution up to the vacuum boundary of the corresponding 2‐D Riemann problem, we consider several Goursat‐type boundary value problems for 2‐D self‐similar Euler equations and use the ideas of characteristic decomposition and bootstrap method. Further, we formulate 2‐D‐modified shallow water equations newly and solve a dam‐break‐type problem for them as an application of this work. Moreover, we also recover the results from the available literature for certain equations of states that provide a check that the results obtained in this article are actually correct.
Molecular findings and clinical manifestations of 18 Iranian children with Griscelli syndrome type 2: Two novel homozygote mutations in RAB27A gene in a patient
Authors: Tajik Shaghayegh , Badalzadeh Mohsen , Houshmand Massoud , Alizadeh Zahra , Moradi Leila , Hamidieh Amir Ali , Shafiei Alireza , Heris Javad Ahmadiani , Bahram Seiamak , Molitor Anne , Carapito Raphael , Moin Mostafa , Fazlollahi Mohammad Reza , Pourpak Zahra
Published: March 2023

Griscelli syndrome type 2 (GS2) is an autosomal recessive immunodeficiency characterized by hair hypopigmentation, recurrent fever, hepatosplenomegaly and pancytopenia. This study aims to find new genetic changes and clinical features in 18 children with GS2 caused by the RAB27A gene defect. In all, 18 Iranian children with GS2 who presented with silver grey hair and frequent pyogenic infection were included in this study. After recording demographic and clinical data, PCR sequencing of the RAB27A gene was performed for all exons and exon–intron boundaries. Two patients in this study were subjected to whole‐exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing. Light microscopy study of hair showed large irregular clumps of pigment with the absence of giant granules on the blood smear. Mutation analysis of the RAB27A gene identified two novel missense mutations as homozygous in a patient, one in exon 2, c.140G>C and another in exon 4, c.328G>T. In addition, for 17 other patients, 6 reported mutations were obtained including c.514_518delCAAGC, c.150_151delAGinsC, c.400_401delAA, c.340delA, c.428T>C and c.221A>G. The mutation c.514_518delCAAGC was the most frequent and found in 10 patients; this mutation may be considered a hotspot in Iran. Early diagnosis and treatment of RAB27A deficiency can contribute to better disease outcomes. In affected families, genetic results could be urgently needed to make a timely decision about haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and prenatal diagnosis.
ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 regulates BRUTUS and affects iron acquisition and homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Mankotia Samriti , Singh Dhriti , Monika Kumari , Kalra Muskan , Meena Himani , Meena Varsha , Yadav Ram Kishor , Pandey Ajay Kumar , Satbhai Santosh B.
Published: March 2023

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for both plants and animals. Fe‐limitation significantly reduces crop yield and adversely impacts on human nutrition. Owing to limited bioavailability of Fe in soil, plants have adapted different strategies that not only regulate Fe‐uptake and homeostasis but also bring modifications in root system architecture to enhance survival. Understanding the molecular mechanism underlying the root growth responses will have critical implications for plant breeding. Fe‐uptake is regulated by a cascade of basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factors (TFs) in plants. In this study, we report that HY5 (Elongated Hypocotyl 5), a member of the basic leucine zipper (bZIP) family of TFs, plays an important role in the Fe‐deficiency signaling pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana. The hy5 mutant failed to mount optimum Fe‐deficiency responses, and displayed root growth defects under Fe‐limitation. Our analysis revealed that the induction of the genes involved in Fe‐uptake pathway (FIT‐FER‐LIKE IRON DEFICIENCY‐INDUCED TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR, FRO2‐FERRIC REDUCTION OXIDASE 2 and IRT1‐IRON‐REGULATED TRANSPORTER1) is reduced in the hy5 mutant as compared with the wild‐type plants under Fe‐deficiency. Moreover, we also found that the expression of coumarin biosynthesis genes is affected in the hy5 mutant under Fe‐deficiency. Our results also showed that HY5 negatively regulates BRUTUS (BTS) and POPEYE (PYE). Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed direct binding of HY5 to the promoters of BTS, FRO2 and PYE. Altogether, our results showed that HY5 plays an important role in the regulation of Fe‐deficiency responses in Arabidopsis.
Digital Literacy: The Right Solution to Overcome the Various Problems of Meaning and Communication on Social Media
Authors: Arafah Burhanuddin , Hasyim Muhammad
Published: March 2023

Problems with meaning arise when symbols interact in digital communication on social media between users. Different messages may be interpreted differently due to symbolic exchanges between social media users. This paper examines how message meaning relates to current social media challenges. The data used to address the issue was obtained from an online survey of social media users, and the semiotics method was employed (denotation and connotation). This study concludes that people who utilize social media have a higher propensity to read the news and become more authentic by sharing it. To read social media text messages denotatively has ideological consequences for users and connotative implications. Social media messaging's ideological impact creates the purpose of action (change of view on an issue, for example, COVID-19 vaccination). This paper contributes to digital media literacy, which develops critical thinking abilities based on digital knowledge by choosing to read news content. Besides, this paper contributes to the capacity to critically create content based on digital culture (positive news content) and offer critical commentary based on digital ethics (politeness in providing language). This article discusses the benefits and importance of news content comments and the ability to share news content critically based on digital safety by safely evaluating information before sharing it.
Thermal sensing capability and current–voltage–temperature characteristics in Pt/n-GaP/Al/Ti Schottky diodes
Authors: Efeoǧlu Hasan , Turut Abdulmecit
Published: March 2023

We have discussed the thermal sensing capability under a constant current level and current versus voltage (I–V) traces by measuring the temperature of high series resistance Pt/n-GaP/Al/Ti Schottky structures in the 100−320 K range. The Rs values of 35 Ω and 4.50 × 103 kΩ for the device have been determined from I–V traces at 320 and 100 K, respectively. The thermal sensing (V–T) curves are expected to give a straight line at each current level. However, the V–T curves have deviated upward from linearity due to the high Rs value of the device after a certain temperature. The deviation point from linearity in V–T traces shifts to higher temperatures with an increase in bias voltage and current level. Thereby, the straight-line interval portion of the V–T curve has become too small with an increase in the current value. The thermal sensing coefficient α changed from 2.49 mV/K at 10 μA to 3.21 mV/K at 0.50 nA. Therefore, it has been concluded that the Pt/n-GaP/Al/Ti Schottky barrier (SB) is preferable for thermal sensor applications at the small current levels of 0.50, 1.0, 2.0, and 10.0 nA with high sensitivity up to a minimum temperature of 100 K. From I–V curves, qΦb0 and ideality factor values have ranged from 1.200 eV and 1.066 at 320 K to 0.854 eV and 1.705 at 100 K. It has been reported in the literature that the large SB height leads to a better temperature response.
DksA, ppGpp, and RegAB Regulate Nitrate Respiration in Paracoccus denitrificans
Authors: Ray Ashvini , Spiro Stephen
Published: March 2023

Paracoccus denitrificans
is a metabolically versatile Gram-negative bacterium that is used as a model for studies of respiratory metabolism. The organism can utilize nitrate as an electron acceptor for anaerobic respiration, reducing it to dinitrogen via nitrite, nitric oxide, and nitrous oxide.
Complete Genome Sequence of Enterobacter roggenkampii RX.G5M56, a C1-Metabolizing Strain from a Freshwater Stream in Hong Kong
Authors: Xu D. Y. , Leung K. M. , Lai G. K. K. , Leung F. C. C. , Griffin S. D. J.
Published: March 2023

The C1-metabolizing strain
Enterobacter roggenkampii
RX.G5M56 was isolated from a freshwater stream in Hong Kong. Its complete genome, a single chromosome of 4,772,201 bp (GC content of 56.05%), was established through hybrid assembly.