bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Robustness of Machine Learning Models in Classifying COVID-19 Spike Sequences
Authors: Ali Sarwan , Chen Pin-Yu , Patterson Murray
Published: August 2023

In the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, a wealth of data has become available to researchers, presenting a unique opportunity to investigate the behavior of the virus. This research aims to facilitate the design of efficient vaccinations and proactive measures to prevent future pandemics through the utilization of machine learning (ML) models for decision-making processes. Consequently, ensuring the reliability of ML predictions in these critical and rapidly evolving scenarios is of utmost importance. Notably, studies focusing on the genomic sequences of individuals infected with the coronavirus have revealed that the majority of variations occur within a specific region known as the spike (or S) protein. Previous research has explored the analysis of spike proteins using various ML techniques, including classification and clustering of variants. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the possibility of errors in spike proteins, which could lead to misleading outcomes and misguide decision-making authorities. Hence, a comprehensive examination of the robustness of ML and deep learning models in classifying spike sequences is essential. In this paper, we propose a framework for evaluating and benchmarking the robustness of diverse ML methods in spike sequence classification. Through extensive evaluation of a wide range of ML algorithms, ranging from classical methods like naive Bayes and logistic regression to advanced approaches such as deep neural networks, our research demonstrates that utilizingk-mers for creating the feature vector representation of spike proteins is more effective than traditional one-hot encoding-based embedding methods. Additionally, our findings indicate that deep neural networks exhibit superior accuracy and robustness compared to non-deep-learning baselines. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to benchmark the accuracy and robustness of machine-learning classification models against various types of random corruptions in COVID-19 spike protein sequences. The benchmarking framework established in this research holds the potential to assist future researchers in gaining a deeper understanding of the behavior of the coronavirus, enabling the implementation of proactive measures and the prevention of similar pandemics in the future.
Impression management at board meetings: accountability in public and in private
Authors: Pernelet Helen R. , Brennan Niamh M.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate transparency and accountability, the three boards in this study are required to meet in public in front of an audience, although the boards reserve confidential issues for discussion in private sessions. This study examines boardroom public accountability, contrasting it with accountability in board meetings held in private. The study adopts Erving Goffman's impression management theory to interpret divergences between boardroom behaviour in public and private, or “frontstage” and “backstage” in Goffman's terminology.

Design/methodology/approach

The research observes and video-records three board meetings for each of the three boards (nine board meetings), in public and private. The research operationalises accountability in terms of director-manager question-and-answer interactions.

Findings

In the presence of an audience of local stakeholders, the boards employ impression management techniques to demonstrate accountability, by creating the impression that non-executive directors are performing challenge and managers are providing satisfactory answers. Thus, they “save the show” in Goffman terms. These techniques enable board members and managers to navigate the interface between demonstrating the required good governance and the competence of the organisations and their managers, while not revealing issues that could tarnish their image and concern the stakeholders. The boards need to demonstrate to the audience that “matters are what they appear to be”, even if they are not. The research identifies behaviour consistent with impression management to manage this complexity. The authors conclude that regulatory objectives have not met their transparency aspirations.

Originality/value

For the first time, the research studies the effect of transparency regulations (“sunshine” laws) on the behaviour of boards of directors meeting in public. The study contributes to the embryonic literature based on video-taped board meetings to access the “black box” of the boardroom, which permits a study of impression management at board meetings not previously possible. This study extends prior impression management theory by identifying eleven impression management techniques that non-executive directors and managers use and which are unique to a boardroom context.
Boundary protection based on the anti-icing thermal load surrogated model and the WRF icing meteorological prediction
Authors: Niu Junjie , Sang Weimin , Guo Qilei , Qiu Aoxiang , Shi Dazhi
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a method of the safety boundary protection for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the icing conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Forty icing conditions were sampled in the continuous maximum icing conditions in the Appendix C of the Federal Aviation Regulation Part 25. Icing numerical simulations were carried out for the 40 samples and the anti-icing thermal load distribution in full evaporation mode were obtained. Based on the obtained anti-icing thermal load distribution, the surrogated model of the anti-icing thermal load distribution was established with proper orthogonal decomposition and Kriging interpolation. The weather research and forecasting (WRF) model was used for meteorological simulations to obtain the icing meteorological conditions in the target area. With the obtained icing conditions and surrogated model, the anti-icing thermal load distribution in the target area and the variation with time can be determined. According to the energy supply of the UAVs, the graded safety boundaries can be obtained.

Findings

The surrogated model can predict the effects of five factors, such as temperature, velocity, pressure, median volume diameter (MVD) and liquid water content (LWC), on the anti-icing thermal load quickly and accurately. The simulated results of the WRF mode agree well with the observed results. The method can obtain the graded safety boundaries.

Originality/value

The method has a reference significant for the safety of the UAVs with the limited energy supply in the icing conditions.
What explains the sudden surge in cryptocurrency? A consumption value theory perspective
Authors: Gupta Shelly , Himanshu Himanshu , Dhingra Sanjay , Aggarwal Radhika
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Cryptocurrency has emerged as a significant component on the surface of the financial industry. With its growing popularity and blockchain as an underlying technology, cryptocurrency has the potential to disrupt the digital payments market. In light of this, this study aims to identify and empirically validate factors that influence the continuous intention of customers toward the adoption of cryptocurrency.

Design/methodology/approach

The study extends consumption value theory by incorporating additional variables – monetary value, perceived trust and perceived risk – to enhance the predictive power of the proposed model. The data were analyzed using the partial least square technique on the sample of 285 customers.

Findings

The results indicate that trust is the most significant factor to influence customers’ intention to use cryptocurrency, followed by conditional value, epistemic value, emotional value and monetary value. The authors also found the significant moderating effect of personal innovativeness on behavioral intention and actual usage of cryptocurrency.

Practical implications

The analysis of the study gives policymakers valuable information for the establishment of the regulatory framework that supports innovation while protecting the rights of the consumer.

Originality/value

The study embeds great theoretical and practical significance by generating a new technical thread that will facilitate multiple players to use their resources optimally.
Industry 4.0 base technologies and business models: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ferrigno Giulio , Del Sarto Nicola , Piccaluga Andrea , Baroncelli Alessandro
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The objective of this study is to examine current business and management research on “Industry 4.0 base technologies” and “business models” to shed light on this vast literature and to point out future research agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications based on 482 documents collected from the Scopus database and a co-citation analysis to provide an overview of business model studies related to Industry 4.0 base technologies. After that a qualitative analysis of the articles was also conducted to identify research trends and trajectories.

Findings

The results reveal the existence of five research themes: smart products (cluster 1); business model innovation (cluster 2); technological platforms (cluster 3); value creation and appropriation (cluster 4); and digital business models (cluster 5). A qualitative analysis of the articles was also conducted to identify research trends and trajectories.

Research limitations/implications

First, the dataset was collected through Scopus. The authors are aware that other databases, such as Web of Science, can be used to deepen the focus of quantitative bibliometric analysis. Second, the authors based this analysis on the Industry 4.0 base technologies identified by Frank et al. (2019). The authors recognize that Industry 4.0 comprises other technologies beyond IoT, cloud computing, big data and analytics.

Practical implications

Drawing on these analyses, the authors submit a useful baseline for developing Industry 4.0 base technologies and considering their implications for business models.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors focus their attention on the relationship between technologies underlying the fourth industrial revolution, identified by Frank et al. (2019), and the business model, with a particular focus on the developments that have occurred over the last decade and the authors performed a bibliometric analysis to consider all the burgeoning literature on the topic.
Career competencies: an integrated review of the literature
Authors: Jo Hyeonah , Park Minji , Song Ji Hoon
Published: August 2023

Purpose

A boundaryless career perspective suggests that career competencies are essential for employees who wish to advance their careers in high uncertainty. This study aims to propose an integrated conceptual model for career competencies to provide insights for employees and organizations by identifying what and how one can prepare and provide support for career development in an uncertain and complex work environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The integrated literature reviewed was adapted to provide a conceptual model for career competencies. All 77 studies were reviewed, guided by the intelligent career theory (ICT) and social cognitive career theory (SCCT).

Findings

The mechanisms of career competency development were examined through the interrelationship between three types of knowing; knowing-why, knowing-whom and knowing-how. Career competencies can be considered a developmental process, therefore, they could develop through various interventions and accumulate over time. Especially the results indicate that learning is an essential component of career competencies, as it increases self-efficacy and promotes a desire to achieve positive career outcomes.

Originality/value

This study provided a conceptual model, explored the mechanisms of career competency development and considered how career competencies influence career outcomes. Furthermore, it identified the context of the construct of career competencies by integrating the SCCT and ICT. Finally, it showed the inadequacy of existing research on negative factors of career competency outcomes and recommended further research to broaden the general context of career competency studies.
Does financial inclusion promote sustainable livelihood development? Mediating effect of microentrepreneurship
Authors: Mahato Jogeswar , Jha Manish Kumar
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of financial inclusion in promoting sustainable livelihood among indigenous women entrepreneurs. Moreover, the study has also examined the mediating role of microentrepreneurship between financial inclusion and sustainable livelihood.

Design/methodology/approach

Structure equation modeling has been used to analyze the mediating effect of microentrepreneurship between financial inclusion and sustainable livelihood development. In total, 598 samples of indigenous women across the Sundargarh and Mayurbhanj districts in Odisha are used for the statistical data analysis in the study.

Findings

The results showed that financial inclusion has direct and indirect effect on promoting sustainable livelihood among indigenous women. The results also highlighted that microentrepreneurship significantly mediates the relationship between financial inclusion and sustainable livelihood.

Practical implications

The Government of India should formulate policies on financial inclusion by reviewing the findings of this study. In addition, to increase the base of microenterprises and the achievement of sustainable livelihood in rural regions, more focus should be given toward the promotion of inclusive finance among indigenous women in India.

Originality/value

The present idea has not been discussed or explored earlier among the indigenous communities in the Indian context. So, the study will benefit the marginalized groups of women in promoting their livelihood sustainably.
Empatia – video reflection method for reflecting on empathic interactions between care worker and client
Authors: Levonius Vilja M.R. , Saari Eveliina
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the Empatia video reflection method, designed to enhance care workers’ awareness of empathic care. The method makes the quality of care visible, which is needed when digitalization efforts in elder care focus on the efficiency and adequacy of care work.

Design/methodology/approach

The Empatia method leans on previous studies of the interaction between care professionals and clients and elaborates further previous video reflection methods. In empathic care work, the care worker sees the client on their life continuum, rather than focusing on only medical treatments.

Findings

The empirical example demonstrates how a care worker gained awareness of their empathic interaction habits. Within the work community, the reflection process sparked discussions on values: the purpose of care work and how to conduct empathic care. Focusing on empathic relationships in care fosters both the client’s and the care worker’s well-being.

Practical implications

The strength of the Empatia method is that it makes empathy visible in interaction and something that is individually and collectively learnable. The Empatia includes an analytical tool for researchers to reveal empathy in client interaction. It can be developed further into a reflection tool for service work to learn how to be empathic in service encounters.

Originality/value

Compared to other video-stimulated recall methods, the Empatia involves contextual understanding of care work. Empowering positive interactions instead of detecting errors and solving problems is a novel concept and is scantily used in studies of organizational learning. The Empatia provides a detailed method description that allows for the replication of the method by anyone.
Corporate social responsibility and firm value during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Choi Seung Uk , Lee Woo Jae , Choi Nak Hwan
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the relationship between buyer firms' corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities toward business partners, such as suppliers, and firm value. The study further explores the role of ownership structure in shaping this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ a difference-in-differences (DID) regression method to distinguish between the periods before and during the COVID-19 crisis. The authors utilize data from firms listed on the Korean stock market between 2013 and 2020.

Findings

The results show that CSR activities for suppliers have a positive impact on the value of buyer firms. Furthermore, this positive relationship is amplified during the COVID-19 period. In addition, the study finds that the positive relationship is more prominent in samples with higher ownership by controlling shareholders or foreign investors.

Originality/value

Overall, this study makes a valuable contribution to the existing literature by examining the positive effects of CSR activities on firm value and by shedding light on the role of ownership structure in influencing these effects. Additionally, the study emphasizes the significance of CSR activities for business partners in mitigating supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Finite coating thickness of Prandtl fluid in non-isothermal reverse roll coating process
Authors: Abbas Zaheer , Khaliq Sabeeh , Usman Sana , Rafiq Muhammad Yousuf
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The coating process is broadly employed in the manufacturing of wallpapers, adhesive tapes, wrapping, protection of fabrics and metals, X-ray and photographic films, beautification, books and magazines, film foils, magnetic records, coated paper, etc.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an incompressible flow of non-Newtonian fluid is modeled to inspect the rheological behavior of finite coating thickness in the reverse roll coating process. With the assistance of lubrication approximation theory (LAT), the dimensionless form of governing expressions is simplified. Exact solutions for distributions for velocity, flow rate, temperature and pressure gradient attained utilizing perturbation technique and their variation is presented as well as discussed in graphs. Meanwhile, some important factors from an engineering perspective including coating thickness and transition point were calculated mathematically and are displayed in a tabular manner. Also, streamlines are drawn to observe the flow pattern.

Findings

Prandtl fluid parameters provide a controlling factor to regulate the flow rate, velocity, coating thickness, and pressure gradient leading to an efficient coating process. Moreover, the Brinkman number and Prandtl fluid parameters significantly improve the temperature distribution.

Originality/value

In the literature, this study fills a gap in the theoretical prediction of coating thickness rheologically influenced by Prandtl fluid in reverse roll coating process.
Adjusting the library performance standards for consortia services: a case study
Authors: Gonda Thalia , Papatheodorou Christos
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study proposes a framework for performance measurement of library consortia services by implementing the indicators listed in ISO 11620. The framework is validated by using real data from HEAL-Link, the national consortium of Greek academic and research libraries to calculate the indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on the related work regarding the services consortia offer to their members and the known methods and tools for assessing consortia services; the HEAL-Link case study, the aggregation and handling of data, is presented; ISO 11620 performance indicators for HEAL-Link services are calculated, and the results are discussed in terms of what was learnt- about the consortium, about measuring consortia services performance, and about the standard.

Findings

ISO 11620 could be used to measure performance for assessing consortia services. The performance indicators’ results reflect the two major events (mergers and COVID pandemic) that took place during the time of the study. ISO 11620 offers a basic insight that could be well complemented with other tools and standards.

Originality/value

The current study suggests that a widely accepted, easily applied, benchmarking ISO standard could be used to measure common consortia services’ performance, thus contributing to consortia assessment.
Elastic full‐waveform inversion based on the double‐cross‐shaped discrete flux‐corrected transport
Authors: Li Jinli , Zhu Jianggui , Qu Yingming , Yang Zhenjie , Li Zhenchun
Published: August 2023

Multi‐parameter elastic full‐waveform inversion is a technique that utilizes both P‐ and S‐waves of observed seismic data to produce high‐resolution velocity and density models with accurate amplitude information by minimizing the discrepancy between the predicted and observed multi‐component data. However, due to the nonlinear nature of the multi‐parameter inverse problem, elastic full‐waveform inversion is prone to local minima and ‘cycle‐skipping’. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes an elastic full‐waveform inversion method that incorporates a double‐cross‐shaped discrete flux‐corrected transport. This method additionally introduces diffusion fluxes in two diagonal directions, which helps to capture low‐frequency information in the observed seismic data and maintain forward modelling stability. Multi‐scale inversion is achieved by gradually decreasing the diffusion flux correction parameter. Numerical experiments on both two typical models and a field data example demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed elastic full‐waveform inversion method based on the double‐cross‐shaped discrete flux‐corrected transport in generating high‐precision velocity and density models.
Promoting sustainable growth and self‐production of energy through the water industry, as key elements for climate change action
Authors: Peral David , Sánchez Jorge , López Paula , Vallés Federico , Fernández Pascual
Published: August 2023

The paper focuses on climate actions through water activity and energy synergies supporting a water public operator—Canal de Isabel II—to fight against climate change in the region of Madrid. Actions for its mitigation such as the generation of electricity through water treatment activity are undoubtedly a great tool to face climate change and mitigate CO2 emissions. Led by the Strategic Plan of Canal, a water & energy cycle has been designed that, taking advantage of the different processes carried out, and thanks to the appropriate technologies, allows the generation of 100% renewable electrical energy. Through its solar energy plan, Canal is making an important technological effort to reduce energy consumption, taking advantage of the extensive area the water company has for its operations. At the same time, wastewater solutions ans possibilities are becoming more attractive. This paper explains how the Canal is transforming biogas from wastewater treatment plants into fuel for vehicles. On adaptation, this document describes measures for increasing the availability of resources, reducing water consumption, and preparing for new challenges, provided that water remains an essential resource affordable and accessible to all. In this sense, Canal's main contribution and responsibility is to ensure its availability in the event of water scarcity and to avoid the effects of extreme weather phenomena. In addition, the paper presents important projects related to such adaptations as the tariff structure to discourage high superfluous uses of water or the water reclaimed production. This integrated approach to water and energy production and consumption represents an unbeatable strategy that is recommended for dealing with this global problem in a sustainable way. Canal's activities prove that a water company can aspire to be more sustainable through the implementation of integrated projects on the water and energy nexus.
Globe trauma associated with falls at Australian tertiary centres
Authors: Bartimote Christopher , Hoskin Annette K , Fraser Clare L , Watson Stephanie
Published: August 2023

Objective

Falls frequently cause globe and adnexal trauma, particularly in the elderly. The morbidity decreases confidence, independence and quality of life. We aimed to improve the understanding of fall‐related globe and adnexal trauma and the involvement of ophthalmology at two tertiary trauma centres.

Methods

A retrospective medical record review was conducted at Royal North Shore Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital of patients admitted with fall‐related globe and/or adnexal trauma between January 2015 and December 2019. International Classification of Disease Tenth Revision codes were used to identify patients for inclusion. Medical records were reviewed to extract data on demographics, trauma, ocular examination and referrals to ophthalmology.

Results

From January 2015 to December 2019, 346 patients, 186 were female (54%) and median age 76 years (interquartile range 24 years), were admitted to Royal North Shore Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with fall‐related globe and/or adnexal trauma. One hundred and twenty‐five (36%) suffered globe trauma with 48 (14%) classified as severe. Patients over 65 years old had at least three risk factors contributing to falls. Alcohol and illicit substances were involved in 20% of falls and occurred predominantly in younger populations. There were significantly more patients with globe trauma if orbital/mid‐facial fractures were present (55% vs 36%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Fall‐related globe and adnexal trauma were more common in the elderly. Alcohol and illicit substances have a role in falls in younger populations. Thorough ocular assessment is required especially in mid‐facial/orbital trauma to exclude globe trauma. Further, research is required to determine the effect of fall prevention strategies in preventing globe trauma.
Experimental study on a novel vacuum sublimation–rehydration thawing of frozen potatoes
Authors: Liu Fangran , Wu Weidong , Chen Shanshan , Wang Hao , Zhou Zhigang
Published: August 2023

To realize a quick thawing of frozen potatoes, the experimental investigation of thawing performance was conducted by using a novel vacuum sublimation–rehydration thawing (VSRT) in this study. Frozen diced potatoes (20 mm × 20 mm × 20 mm) with a total mass of 1.5 kg were selected as the thawing object. The center temperature of the frozen diced potato was raised from −18°C to 5°C to assess the beginning and end of thawing. The effects of sublimation time, heating plate temperature, and rehydration temperature on thawing time of frozen potatoes were experimentally studied. The VSRT and vacuum steam thawing (VST) were compared in terms of thawing time, hardness, and specific energy consumption. The results showed that the conditions of sublimation time of 25 min, heating plate temperature of 30°C, and rehydration temperature of 100°C could effectively shorten the thawing time of VSRT for thawing frozen potatoes. The thawing time of VSRT was only 49% of that of VST. Compared to the hardness of frozen potatoes thawed by VST, the hardness of frozen potatoes thawed by VSRT was closer to that of blanched (unfrozen) potatoes. The specific energy consumption of VSRT was lower than that of VST.

Practical Application

The quality of frozen potatoes is directly affected by the thawing method used. A novel vacuum sublimation–rehydration thawing was conducted in this study, which can provide a new idea for a reasonable, effective, and quick thawing method for frozen potatoes.
Aggregation kinetics of green tea nanoparticles: Effects of pH, metal ions, and temperature
Authors: Guo Cheng , Shen Wangyang , Jin Weiping , Jia Xiwu , Ji Zhili , Li Jinling , Li Bin
Published: August 2023

Colloidal nanoparticles in tea infusion are the link connecting micromolecular mechanism and macro‐aggregation process of tea cream formation. In order to elucidate, the kinetics mechanism of green tea nanoparticles (gTNPs) aggregation, zeta‐potentials, total average aggregation (TAA) rates, and critical coagulation concentration (CCC) in the presence of various pH and metal ions were investigated. Additionally, the effect of temperature on gTNPs aggregation was further explored. The results revealed that the TAA rate of gTNPs increased with decreasing pH values, the CCC of gTNPs increased in the order Mg2+ ≈ Ca2+ < Na+ ≈ K+. The reason was that different positive ions changed the surface electric field strength of gTNPs to a different extent. Furthermore, it was indicated that low temperature could promote gTNPs aggregation in indirect way. Low temperature promoted the binding of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and caffeine, and the combination between gTNPs and EGCG–caffeine complexes weakened the stability of gTNPs resulting from reduction in electrostatic repulsion.

Practical Application

Tea is a popular beverage all over the world. This research revealed the mechanism of green tea nanoparticles aggregation and laid a theoretical foundation for the regulation of tea cream formation in tea beverage.
The link between obesity and insulin resistance among children: Effects of key metabolites
Authors: Yan Wu , Wu Su , Liu Qianqi , Zheng Qingqing , Gu Wei , Li Xiaonan
Published: August 2023

Background

Childhood obesity became a severe public health challenge, and insulin resistance (IR) was one of the common complications. Both obesity and IR were considered as the basis of metabolic disorders. However, it is unclear which common key metabolites are associated with childhood obesity and IR.

Methods

The children were divided into normal weight and overweight/obese groups. Fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin were measured, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was calculated. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was applied for metabonomic analysis. Multiple linear regression analysis and correlation analysis explored the relationships between obesity, IR, and metabolites. Random forests were used to rank the importance of differential metabolites, and relative operating characteristic curves were used for prediction.

Results

A total of 88 normal‐weight children and 171 obese/overweight children participated in the study. There was a significant difference between the two groups in 30 metabolites. Childhood obesity was significantly associated with 10 amino acid metabolites and 20 fatty acid metabolites. There were 12 metabolites significantly correlated with IR. The ranking of metabolites in random forest showed that glutamine, tyrosine, and alanine were important in amino acids, and pyruvic‐ox‐2, ethylmalonic‐2, and phenyllactic‐2 were important in fatty acids. The area under the curve of body mass index standard deviation  score (BMI‐SDS) combined with key amino acid metabolites and fatty acid metabolites for predicting IR was 80.0% and 76.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

There are common key metabolites related to IR and obese children, and these key metabolites combined with BMI‐SDS could effectively predict the risk of IR.
Efficacy of sesame oil versus placebo in the management of acute radiation‐induced dermatitis in breast cancer patients: A double‐blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Moslemi Dariush , Ramezany Sepehr , Moghadamnia Ali Akbar , Ebrahimian Saba
Published: August 2023

Aim

Considering the anti‐inflammatory and positive effects of sesame oil in treating skin diseases, the present research aimed to study its therapeutic effects on acute radiotherapy dermatitis in such patients.

Methods

Forty women with breast cancer during radiotherapy (for 5 weeks) were randomly grouped into two categories: sesame oil (20 patients) and placebo (20 patients). After each radiotherapy session, they were asked to use 3cc of the ointment on the treating field and continue the treatment until the end. They were examined weekly according to the staging criteria of the radiation therapy oncology group.

Results

No significant difference was observed in the first 3 weeks. In the fourth week, dermatitis grade 0 was 35%, grade 1 was 65%, and grade 2 was 0% in the intervention (case) group, while in the control group, they were 10%, 75%, and 15%, respectively. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.046). Also, in the fifth week in the case group, dermatitis grade 0 was 25%, grade 1 was 70%, and grade 2 was 5%, while in the control group, they were 0%, 80%, and 20%, respectively. This difference was also statistically significant (p = 0.032).

Conclusion

Based on the findings, sesame oil, as a cheap and available herbal treatment, may be utilized in treating acute dermatitis caused by radiotherapy. However, an investigation with a larger sample size in several centers should be conducted to examine sesame oil effects in treating acute radio dermatitis more comprehensively.
Slice by slice: An Australian state‐by‐state analysis of Mohs micrographic surgery over 5 years
Authors: Farrell Joshua , Moreno Gilberto
Published: August 2023

Background

In November 2018, Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) was restricted to fellows registered with the Australasian College of Dermatologists. Three new item numbers for the provision of MMS were also introduced. We examine the national and state usage of MMS item numbers based on Medicare claim statistics and Mohs surgeons' self‐reported data, noting the impact of the pandemic and the usage of individual item numbers.

Methods

Medicare item number data were obtained from the Medicare Benefits Schedule website for January 2017–December 2021. Self‐reported data were collected on an annual basis by the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) as part of the Quality Assurance Program (QAP) from 2019 onwards. Data were analysed with the Holt–Winters smoothing method for forecasting.

Results

An increasing number of MMS claims were processed each year, with a total of 89,183 for the study period. Since November 2018, 97.7% of procedures have been conducted on the head, neck, genitalia, hand, digits, leg (below the knee) or foot. The provision of services across the country was maintained during the pandemic years of 2020–2021, with an increase in services in Queensland. There were discrepancies between the states for procedures performed in greater than six sections; these constituted more than 35% of claims in Queensland and Western Australia compared to less than 15% in other states. The pandemic impacted certain states more than others, with Victoria and the Northern Territory having significantly fewer presentations than predicted (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, the use of MMS in Australia is in keeping with peer‐developed guidelines, despite discrepancies between states. Although certain states were more severely affected by the pandemic, MMS is increasingly used in Australia.
Moderating the neutralist–selectionist debate: exactly which propositions are we debating, and which arguments are valid?
Authors: de Jong Menno J. , van Oosterhout Cock , Hoelzel A. Rus , Janke Axel
Published: August 2023

Half a century after its foundation, the neutral theory of molecular evolution continues to attract controversy. The debate has been hampered by the coexistence of different interpretations of the core proposition of the neutral theory, the ‘neutral mutation–random drift’ hypothesis. In this review, we trace the origins of these ambiguities and suggest potential solutions. We highlight the difference between the original, the revised and the nearly neutral hypothesis, and re‐emphasise that none of them equates to the null hypothesis of strict neutrality. We distinguish the neutral hypothesis of protein evolution, the main focus of the ongoing debate, from the neutral hypotheses of genomic and functional DNA evolution, which for many species are generally accepted. We advocate a further distinction between a narrow and an extended neutral hypothesis (of which the latter posits that random non‐conservative amino acid substitutions can cause non‐ecological phenotypic divergence), and we discuss the implications for evolutionary biology beyond the domain of molecular evolution. We furthermore point out that the debate has widened from its initial focus on point mutations, and also concerns the fitness effects of large‐scale mutations, which can alter the dosage of genes and regulatory sequences. We evaluate the validity of neutralist and selectionist arguments and find that the tested predictions, apart from being sensitive to violation of underlying assumptions, are often derived from the null hypothesis of strict neutrality, or equally consistent with the opposing selectionist hypothesis, except when assuming molecular panselectionism. Our review aims to facilitate a constructive neutralist–selectionist debate, and thereby to contribute to answering a key question of evolutionary biology: what proportions of amino acid and nucleotide substitutions and polymorphisms are adaptive?
When Children's Production Deviates From Observed Input: Modeling the Variable Production of the English Past Tense
Authors: Barak Libby , Harmon Zara , Feldman Naomi H. , Edwards Jan , Shafto Patrick
Published: August 2023

As children gradually master grammatical rules, they often go through a period of producing form‐meaning associations that were not observed in the input. For example, 2‐ to 3‐year‐old English‐learning children use the bare form of verbs in settings that require obligatory past tense meaning while already starting to produce the grammatical–edinflection. While many studies have focused on overgeneralization errors, fewer studies have attempted to explain the root of this earlier stage of rule acquisition. In this work, we use computational modeling to replicate children's production behavior prior to the generalization of past tense production in English. We illustrate how seemingly erroneous productions emerge in a model, without being licensed in the grammar and despite the model aiming at conforming to grammatical forms. Our results show that bare form productions stem from a tension between two factors: (1) trying to produce a less frequent meaning (the past tense) and (2) being unable to restrict the production of frequent forms (the bare form) as learning progresses. Like children, our model goes through a stage of bare form production and then converges on adult‐like production of the regular past tense, showing that these different stages can be accounted for through a single learning mechanism.
“We have hope”: An exploration of hope in highly religious families
Authors: Kelley Heather H. , Hendricks Justin J. , Chelladurai Joe M. , Marks Loren D. , Dollahite David C.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore qualitatively the connections among religion, hope, and relationships.

Background

Both hope and religion have often been associated with positive individual and relational outcomes. Some research has found that hope mediates or moderates the relationship between religion and various outcomes. Despite the research that has been done to understand connections between religion and hope, little research has explored these constructs together in a relational context.

Method

Using thematic analysis and a team‐based approach, we completed an analysis of in‐depth interviews with a large, culturally and religiously diverse strengths‐based sample of 198 highly religious families.

Results

Two themes relating to the religious antecedents of hope were identified (religious beliefs and religious practices) as well as two themes that address the application or outcomes of hope (hope in family life and the experience of religious hopes). Several subthemes were also identified and are discussed and illustrated.

Conclusions

For some families, religious beliefs and specific religious practices play an important role in fostering hope, and this hope was reported to enhance various elements of individual and family life.

Implications

Results provide support for integrating religion and hope into various individual and relational therapies.
Glow‐type conversion and characterization of a minimal luciferase via mutational analyses
Authors: Ohmuro‐Matsuyama Yuki , Matsui Hayato , Kanai Masaki , Furuta Tadaomi
Published: August 2023

Luciferases are widely used as reporter proteins in various fields. Recently, we developed a minimal bright luciferase, picALuc, via partial deletion of the artificial luciferase (ALuc) derived from copepods luciferases. However, the structures of copepod luciferases in the substrate‐bound state remain unknown. Moreover, as suggested by structural modeling, picALuc has a larger active site cavity, unlike that in other copepod luciferases. Here, to explore the bioluminescence mechanism of picALuc and its luminescence properties, we conducted multiple mutational analyses, and identified residues and regions important for catalysis and bioluminescence. Mutations of residues likely involved in catalysis (S33, H34, and D55) markedly reduced bioluminescence, whereas that of residue (E50) (near the substrate in the structural model) enhanced luminescence intensity. Furthermore, deletion mutants (Δ70–Δ78) in the loop region (around I73) exhibited longer luminescence lifetimes (~ 30 min) and were reactivated multiple times upon re‐addition of the substrate. Due to the high thermostability of picALuc, one of its representative mutant (Δ74), was able to be reused, that is, luminescence recycling, for day‐scale time at room temperature. These findings provide important insights into picALuc bioluminescence mechanism and copepod luciferases and may help with sustained observations in a variety of applications.
Estimating the intrinsic dissipation using the second‐harmonic temperature signal in the tension–tension fatigue
Authors: Ricotta Mauro , Meneghetti Giovanni
Published: August 2023

The intrinsic dissipation experienced by a metal under tension–tension fatigue is linked to the second‐harmonic temperature signal obtained from Fourier analysis. According to the proposed model, self‐heating due to intrinsic dissipation spreads out into all harmonics of the temperature signal, including that modulated at the same frequency as the applied load, which primarily captures the thermoelastic effect. Furthermore, the model is adapted to estimate the intrinsic dissipation starting from the second‐harmonic temperature if the command signal generated by the closed‐loop digital controller of the fatigue test machine is not a pure sine wave modulated at the desired load test frequency but contains high‐order harmonics. Finally, the theoretical model is applied to measure the intrinsic dissipation during stepwise fatigue tests on plain specimens made of C45 normalized steel, and the results obtained are validated using a previously well‐established approach.
Competition between two congener invaders: Food conditions drive the success of the quagga over zebra mussel in a large shallow lake
Authors: Balogh Csilla , Kobak Jarosław , Faragó Nóra , Serfőző Zoltán
Published: August 2023

Dreissena rostriformis bugensis (quagga mussel, QM) has spread into areas occupied by an earlier invader, Dreissena polymorpha (zebra mussel, ZM) in Europe and North America. Usually QM displaces ZM within a few years or both species coexist, although the mechanisms driving these outcomes have not been uncovered clearly.

In Lake Balaton (central‐eastern Europe), QM displaced ZM in the oligotrophic (food‐limited) basin, whereas they coexist in the eutrophic (food‐rich) basin. Searching for the drivers of interactions in dreissenid assemblages, we compared survival, growth, allometry, shell hardness, biomacromolecule content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression (indicating nutrition stress) of dreissenids collected in both basins in a field survey, and in individuals collected from the food‐rich basin and experimentally transplanted (10 weeks) to the food‐limited or food‐rich (i.e. the same) basin.

In the field survey, QM from the food‐rich basin showed the greater height increment per unit length than coexisting ZM and food‐limited conspecifics. ZM had the hardest shells of all the mussel populations. In the food‐rich basin, ZM did not differ from QM in weight, protein, and carbohydrate contents, but had higher lipid content and SOD expression. Food‐limited QM, compared to conspecifics from the food‐rich basin, had weaker shells, but their protein, carbohydrate, and lipid contents showed faster increments per unit size, thus adults made up for the initial advantage of the food‐rich population.

QM survived better than ZM after transplantation irrespective of the basin. Shells were harder in ZM versus QM and in the food‐rich versus food‐limited conditions. QM grew at both locations, whereas ZM only in the food‐rich basin. The protein and carbohydrate contents were greater in the food‐rich versus food‐limited basin, with no interspecific differences. Lipid content in QM was higher in the food‐limited versus food‐rich basin, whereas the opposite held for ZM.

We demonstrated that the dreissenid species could coexist in food‐rich conditions, despite the higher level of stress in ZM (as shown by weaker survival, higher SOD expression), whereas QM displaced ZM under food‐limiting conditions, probably due to the ability to replace missing storage carbohydrates with accumulated lipids. Nevertheless, QM from the food‐limited basin also showed symptoms of nutritional stress (changes in biomacromolecule content, lower shell hardness). Results suggest that the ability to show a rapid change in metabolism could be an important advantage of QM over ZM in their competition.
The effect of Otago exercises on fear of falling, balance, empowerment and functional mobility in the older people: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Genç Fatma Zehra , Bilgili Naile
Published: August 2023

Aim

This study aimed to test the effect of Otago exercises on fear of falling, balance, empowerment and functional mobility in older people living in nursing homes.

Methods

This study is a parallel‐group randomized controlled trial. In total, 56 individuals were stratified randomized according to age‐gender. Participants were recruited from September 2021 to August 2022. Data were collected at baseline, in the 8th and 12th weeks. The researcher gave Otago exercise training to the intervention group three times per week for the first 4 weeks and applied it to the individuals, and in the next 8 weeks, the researcher visited the institution to ensure the continuity of the exercises and contacted the individuals by phone. Friedman test and generalized linear model were used in the analysis of data.

Results

In the study, group and time interaction were found to be significant in terms of the Berg balance scale, 30‐second sit‐and‐stand test, elderly empowerment scale and timed up‐and‐go test. It was determined that the intervention did not improve fear of falling, upper extremity strength and 6‐min walk test results.

Conclusion

Health personnel and administrators should have increased awareness about Otago exercises and can recommend implementation of the programme.