bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A proposal for refining the ESG methodology used by rating agencies
Authors: González‐Pozo Raquel , Arenas‐Parra Mar , Quiroga‐García Raquel , Bilbao‐Terol Amelia
Published: September 2024

Nowadays, global uncertainty has consequences for financial investors. Some of them consider sustainable investment as a refuge from instability. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores are fundamental tools for assessing a company's sustainability and other ethical and social aspects. Due to this challenge, several rating agencies provide ESG grades and scores for companies, investors, and stakeholders. However, the uncertainty associated with the linguistic descriptions of the rating scales, along with partial information regarding their methodology, can complicate the decision‐making process for investors. For this reason, this paper proposes a new approach to constructing ESG scores by integrating two methodologies: ordinal proximity measures and the extended best–worst method. The former considers the different perceptions that investors may have concerning the ratings on the scale. At the same time, the extended best–worst method seeks to define criteria weight coefficients using fuzzy set theory to manage ambiguity and imprecision. These procedures are applied to obtain linguistic assessments for 115 companies worldwide in the energy utilities sector, considering a specific investor's preferences. The dataset was obtained from Refinitiv Datastream and encompasses the period from 2018 to 2021. The findings demonstrate that the proposed procedures complement and enrich the rating methodology used by Refinitiv and can enhance the investment decision‐making processes under uncertain situations.
Structural, electrical, leakage current, and magnetic characteristics of double perovskite Nd2NiTiO6
Authors: Malik Sujan , Dutta Abhigyan
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the structural, electrical, leakage current, and magnetic characteristics of the double perovskite material Nd2NiTiO6 synthesized through the sol–gel citrate auto‐ignition method. The Rietveld refinement of the X‐ray diffraction patterns confirmed a monoclinic symmetry (space group P21/n) with an ordered arrangement of alternate NiO6 and TiO6 octahedra. Impedance spectroscopic analysis exhibited the material's non–Debye‐type relaxation mechanism and semi‐conductive nature. AC conduction analysis revealed that the conduction of charge carriers occurs via the nonoverlapping small polaron hopping mechanism, consistent with Mott's variable range hopping model. Temperature‐ and frequency‐dependent dielectric measurements were interpreted using the Maxwell–Wagner interfacial polarization model. The analysis of thermal‐ and field‐dependent leakage currents established that conduction is ohmic, which the Schottky barrier model explains. Studies on magnetization ruled out the presence of magnetic ordering connected to indirect interaction between Ni2+ ions via Ti4+ ions and the rare‐earth cation (Nd3+) moment.
Adapting Complicated Grief Therapy for Use With People With Intellectual Disabilities: An Action Research Study
Authors: O'Riordan Damien , Conway Emma , Dodd Philip , Guerin Suzanne
Published: September 2024

Background

There is established evidence of complicated grief among people with an intellectual disability. This paper describes the process of adapting complicated grief therapy (CGT) for this population.

Method

Action research documented the adaptation of CGT. Qualitative methods included analysing meeting notes, reflective interviews with two members of the team involved in adapting the materials, and interviews with six professionals working in disability settings who reviewed the adapted materials.

Results

Key processes included adapting the standardised tools that form part of CGT and developing adapted approaches to abstract concepts related to death, dying and bereavement. Key therapeutic components such as imaginal revisiting and the role of significant others required adaptation for implementation with people with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusion

The importance of adapting evidence‐based therapies for people with intellectual disabilities is emphasised. This research provides an adapted form of an established therapy for piloting with this population.
A meta‐analysis of the distance between lead‐implanted site and tricuspid valve annulus with postoperative tricuspid regurgitation deterioration in patients with left bundle branch area pacing
Authors: Karwiky Giky , Kamarullah William , Pranata Raymond , Achmad Chaerul , Iqbal Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a known complication of cardiac implantable electrical devices (CIEDs), with prevalences ranging from 10% to as high as 30%. Despite left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has emerged as an alternative to the limits of His‐bundle pacing (HBP), the long‐term safety of this procedure, notably the worsening of TR after implantation, has yet to be thoroughly investigated. This meta‐analysis sought to determine the frequency of post‐LBBAP TR deterioration and identify the predictors, particularly the distance between lead‐implanted site and the tricuspid valve annulus (lead‐TA‐distance). A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Europe PMC, and ScienceDirect for studies that reported the incidence of deterioration and measurement of TR grade at baseline and follow‐up following LBBAP, in addition to the differences in exposure between short and long lead‐TA‐distances. A total of three studies involving 480 participants were included in this meta‐analysis. The incidence of TR deterioration was 22%. Patients with TR deterioration also demonstrated a significantly shorter lead‐TA‐distance in comparison to the opposing group (MD: −5.74 mm (−0.70, −10.78); p < .001; I2 = 92.6%). The pooled results of three comparative studies suggest that participants in the longer lead‐TA‐distance group had a significant decrement in the likelihood of TR worsening (adjusted OR = 0.59 (0.36–0.96); p = .034; I2 = 79%). Multivariate analysis conducted in each of the included investigations supported the independence of the connection between lead‐TA‐distance and TR deterioration. A shorter lead‐TA‐distance was an independent risk factor for TR deterioration in individuals with post‐LBBAP implantation.
Carvacrol inhibits the progression of oral submucous fibrosis via downregulation of PVT1/miR‐20a‐5p‐mediated pyroptosis
Authors: Yu Cheng‐Chia , Hsieh Pei‐Ling , Chao Shih‐Chi , Liao Yi‐Wen , Yu Chuan‐Hang , Chueh Pin Ju , Peng Chih‐Yu , Lee Shiuan‐Shinn
Published: September 2024

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a precancerous condition in the oral cavity, which is closely related to the myofibroblast conversion of buccal mucosal fibroblasts (BMFs) after chronic consumption of areca nut. Emerging evidence suggests pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death that is mediated by inflammasome, is implicated in persistent myofibroblast activation and fibrosis. Besides, numerous studies have demonstrated the effects of non‐coding RNAs on pyroptosis and myofibroblast activities. Herein, we aimed to target key long non‐coding RNA PVT1 with natural compound, carvacrol, to alleviate pyroptosis and myofibroblast activation in OSF. We first identified PVT1 was downregulated in the carvacrol‐treated fBMFs and then demonstrated that myofibroblast features and expression of pyroptosis makers were all reduced in response to carvacrol treatment. Subsequently, we analysed the expression of PVT1 and found that PVT1 was aberrantly upregulated in OSF specimens and positively correlated with several fibrosis markers. After revealing the suppressive effects of carvacrol on myofibroblast characterisitcs and pyroptosis were mediated by repression of PVT1, we then explored the potential mechanisms. Our data showed that PVT1 may serve as a sponge of microRNA(miR)‐20a to mitigate the myofibroblast activation and pyroptosis. Altogether, these findings indicated that the anti‐fibrosis effects of carvacrol merit consideration and may be due to the attenuation of pyroptosis and myofibroblast activation by targeting the PVT1/miR‐20a axis.
Distribution characteristics of Purkinje fibres in the canine left ventricle
Authors: Li Yunhao , Zhang Daoyang , Meng Yunfan , Zhang Jie , Zhang Qi , Zhang Ping , Zhang Yujie , Sun Mingyu , Wang Zulu , Liang Ming
Published: September 2024

Purkinje‐related ventricular arrhythmias have been increasingly reported, and with the development of catheter ablation techniques, intervention for Purkinje‐related arrhythmias has been shown to be effective. The characteristics of Purkinje fibres orientation in the 12 canine left ventricles were observed at a gross level by staining the endocardium with Lugol's solution. Purkinje fibres were observed microscopically by HE, Masson's, PAS glycogen, and Cx40 immunohistochemical staining. Staining was successful, and the transverse orientation characteristics of Purkinje fibres were observed by Lugol's staining, and the longitudinal distribution was observed microscopically. The distribution of Purkinje fibres in the canine left ventricle is ‘graded’, ‘layered’, and ‘networked’, which can guide catheter ablation of Purkinje‐related ventricular arrhythmia.
The longitudinal behavioral effects of acute exposure to galactic cosmic radiation in female C57BL/6J mice: Implications for deep space missions, female crews, and potential antioxidant countermeasures
Authors: Yun Sanghee , Kiffer Frederico C. , Bancroft Grace L. , Guzman Caterina S. , Soler Ivan , Haas Harley A. , Shi Raymon , Patel Riya , Lara‐Jiménez Jaysen , Kumar Priya L. , Tran Fionya H. , Ahn Kyung Jin , Rong Yuying , Luitel Krishna , Shay Jerry W. , Eisch Amelia J.
Published: September 2024

Galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) is an unavoidable risk to astronauts that may affect mission success. Male rodents exposed to 33‐beam‐GCR (33‐GCR) show short‐term cognitive deficits but reports on female rodents and long‐term assessment are lacking. We asked: What are the longitudinal behavioral effects of 33‐GCR on female mice? Also, can an antioxidant/anti‐inflammatory compound (CDDO‐EA) mitigate the impact of 33‐GCR? Mature (6‐month‐old) C57BL/6J female mice received CDDO‐EA (400 μg/g of food) or a control diet (vehicle, Veh) for 5 days and Sham‐irradiation (IRR) or whole‐body 33‐GCR (0.75Gy) on the 4th day. Three‐months post‐IRR, mice underwent two touchscreen‐platform tests: (1) location discrimination reversal (tests behavior pattern separation and cognitive flexibility, abilities reliant on the dentate gyrus) and (2) stimulus–response learning/extinction. Mice then underwent arena‐based behavior tests (e.g. open field, 3‐chamber social interaction). At the experiment's end (14.25‐month post‐IRR), an index relevant to neurogenesis was quantified (doublecortin‐immunoreactive [DCX+] dentate gyrus immature neurons). Female mice exposed to Veh/Sham vs. Veh/33‐GCR had similar pattern separation (% correct to 1st reversal). There were two effects of diet: CDDO‐EA/Sham and CDDO‐EA/33‐GCR mice had better pattern separation vs. their respective control groups (Veh/Sham, Veh/33‐GCR), and CDDO‐EA/33‐GCR mice had better cognitive flexibility (reversal number) vs. Veh/33‐GCR mice. One radiation effect/CDDO‐EA countereffect also emerged: Veh/33‐GCR mice had slower stimulus–response learning (days to completion) vs. all other groups, including CDDO‐EA/33‐GCR mice. In general, all mice showed normal anxiety‐like behavior, exploration, and habituation to novel environments. There was also a change relevant to neurogenesis: Veh/33‐GCR mice had fewer DCX+ dentate gyrus immature neurons vs. Veh/Sham mice. Our study implies space radiation is a risk to a female crew's longitudinal mission‐relevant cognitive processes and CDDO‐EA is a potential dietary countermeasure for space‐radiation CNS risks.

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Research Progress on the Application of Injectable Hydrogel in Oral Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Wang Hairong , Gao Biyun
Published: September 2024

Background

Oral and maxillofacial tissue defects resulting from factors such as trauma or infection, can significantly impact both facial function and aesthetics. Additionally, the complex anatomical structure of the face often increases the difficulty of treatment. With the advantages of controlled release, targeted delivery, and enhanced mechanical properties, injectable hydrogels have been investigated for the treatment of oral and maxillofacial diseases. In the field of regeneration, injectable hydrogels have a structure similar to the extracellular matrix (ECM) and are biocompatible, which can be used as scaffolds for tissue regeneration.

Objective

This review aims to summarize the literature on the current status and limitations of injectable hydrogels in the field of oral tissue regeneration.

Methods

We searched Pubmed and Web of Science databases to find and summarize the articles on the application of injectable hydrogels in tissue regeneration.

Conclusions

This review focuses on the current status and limitations of injectable hydrogels in the field of tissue regeneration (periodontal tissue, dentin‐pulp complex, bone and cartilage, salivary gland regeneration, and mucosal repair). Although fully studied in animal models, there are still challenges in clinical transformation of injectable hydrogels in promoting tissue regeneration.
High glucose promotes lipopolysaccharide‐induced macrophage pyroptosis through GSDME O‐GlcNAcylation
Authors: Xu Huifeng
Published: September 2024

Aim

The high glucose (HG) environment in diabetic periodontitis aggravates the damage of periodontal tissue. Pyroptosis has been shown to be positively correlated with the severity of periodontitis, including macrophage pyroptosis. O‐GlcNAcylation is a posttranslational modification that is involved in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. However, whether HG regulates macrophage pyroptosis through O‐GlcNAcylation remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HG on the O‐GlcNAcylation level of a pyroptosis regulator GSDME in macrophages to further probe the mechanisms of diabetic periodontitis.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from patients with diabetic periodontitis. THP‐1 monocytes were induced to differentiate into macrophages by phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate and then treated with HG to simulate periodontitis in vitro. GSDME expression of blood samples and macrophages was measured by quantitative real‐time PCR. Pyroptosis was assessed by propidium iodide staining, measurement of cell viability, cytotoxicity, protein levels of inflammation factors, and pyroptosis‐related proteins. O‐GlcNAcylation of GSDME was analyzed using co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP), IP, and western blot.

Results

The results showed that GSDME expression was elevated in patients with periodontitis and HG‐treated macrophages. HG inhibited cell viability but increased LDH content, levels of IL‐1β, IL‐18, TNF‐α, NLRP3, GSDMD, and Caspase‐1, indicating that HG promoted pyroptosis of macrophages, which was reversed by GSDME knockdown. HG treatment increased O‐GlcNAcylation in macrophages. Mechanically, GSDME interacted with OGT, and OGT knockdown suppressed O‐GlcNAcylation of GSDME at Ser (S)339 site. Knockdown of OGT inhibited pyroptosis in HG‐treated macrophages, while GSDME overexpression partially reversed this inhibition.

Conclusion

HG treatment enhanced OGT‐mediated GSDME O‐GlcNAcylation, thereby augmenting pyroptosis in LPS‐induced macrophages. These results may provide a novel sight for the treatment of periodontitis.
Asymmetric stable stochastic volatility models: estimation, filtering, and forecasting
Authors: Blasques Francisco , Koopman Siem Jan , Moussa Karim
Published: September 2024

This article considers a stochastic volatility model featuring an asymmetric stable error distribution and a novel way of accounting for the leverage effect. We adopt simulation‐based methods to address key challenges in parameter estimation, the filtering of time‐varying volatility, and volatility forecasting. More specifically, we make use of the indirect inference method for estimating the static parameters, while the latent volatility is extracted using the extremum Monte Carlo method. Both parameter estimation and volatility extraction are easily adapted to other model specifications, such as those based on other error distributions or on other dynamic processes for volatility. Illustrations are presented for a simulated dataset and for an empirical dataset of daily Bitcoin returns.
How do medical students' expectations shape their experiences of well‐being programmes?
Authors: Tan Emmanuel , Driessen Erik , Frambach Janneke , Cleland Jennifer , Kearney Grainne P.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Medical schools have a duty of care to support their students' health and well‐being. Student support studies have tended to focus on outcomes in respect of effectiveness and satisfaction. In contrast, little is known about how student expectations of support may shape their experiences and engagement with support mechanisms, as well as the relationships students have with those offering support (including the institution itself). To address this gap in knowledge, we explore how medical students' expectations of student support systems shape, and are shaped by, institutional rules and processes.

Methods

We employed a qualitative case study approach using an institutional ethnography informed methodology. Our context was a medical school that provides a well‐advertised, formal institutional support system where students are assigned a personal tutor. Data collection included interviews with medical students (n = 13) plus document analysis (public facing artefacts and internal policies/guidelines related to the support system). We applied the lens of psychological contract theory to guide abductive analysis of interview and text data.

Results

Students expected a strong support system to be provided by the medical school and the personal tutors. However, their experiences did not always align with their expectations. Some felt excluded by the system while others regarded the relationship with their personal tutor as more transactional than relational. Where their expectations were unmet, students responded by reducing their engagement with the formal support system and creating their own peer‐support network that supplemented existing formal support.

Discussion

Student expectations matter in shaping their experiences of support systems. Where expectations are unmet, students may disengage and/or find alternatives. This may be easier for some students compared with others. More understanding of the relationship between expectations and engagement with support can inform the development of institutional support structures that meet the needs of all students across time.
Modeling Hemodynamics in Three‐Dimensional, Biomimetic, Branched, Microfluidic, Vascular Networks
Authors: Ramanathan Rahul , Borum Andy , Rooney David M. , Rabbany Sina Y.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Neovascularization has been extensively studied because of its significant role in both physiological processes and diseases. The significance of vascular microfluidic platforms lies in its essential role in recreating an in vitro environment capable of supporting cellular and tissue systems through the process of neovascularization. Biomechanical properties in a tissue engineered system use fluid flow and transport properties to recapitulate physiological systems. This enables mimicry of organ systems which can further personalized and regenerative medicine. Thus, fluid hemodynamics can be used to study these flow patterns and create a system that mimics real physiological pathways and processes. The establishment of stable flow pathways encourages endothelial cells (ECs) ECs to undergo neovascularization. Specifically, the shear stress applied in capillary beds generates the increased proliferation and differentiation of ECs to build larger microcirculatory beds.

Mathematical Framework

Here, we describe a mathematical model that uses branching patterns and vessel morphology to predict hemodynamic parameters in capillary beds.

Results

A retinal capillary bed is used as one‐use case of our model to show how the mathematical framework can be used to determine hemodynamic parameters for any microfluidic system.

Conclusion

In doing so, this tool can be altered to be used to supplement emerging research areas in neovascularization.
Severe hypertension in tuberous sclerosis complex caused by renal artery stenosis: A case report
Authors: Xiong Yi , Li Sanlin , Shen Gang
Published: September 2024

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare autosomal dominant neurocutaneous disease. Arterial hypertension is one of its uncommon complications, which is supposed to be caused by renal cysts or angiomyolipomas. Few studies have been reported in the literature on renal artery stenosis (RAS) as the cause of hypertension in TSC. Hence, we reported a boy who presented with uncontrolled hypertension under five anti‐hypertension drugs and was diagnosed with TSC complicated with left RAS. His high blood pressure was relieved by percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA). In one and a half years follow‐up, his blood pressure was normal whilst he took four anti‐hypertensive drugs. In conclusion, children with TCS complicated with hypertension should be carefully screened for RAS, which might be relieved by percutaneous balloon dilatation.
Microbiota responses to mutations affecting NO homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Berger Antoine , Pérez‐Valera Eduardo , Blouin Manuel , Breuil Marie‐Christine , Butterbach‐Bahl Klaus , Dannenmann Michael , Besson‐Bard Angélique , Jeandroz Sylvain , Valls Josep , Spor Aymé , Subramaniam Logapragasan , Pétriacq Pierre , Wendehenne David , Philippot Laurent
Published: September 2024

Interactions between plants and microorganisms are pivotal for plant growth and productivity. Several plant molecular mechanisms that shape these microbial communities have been identified. However, the importance of nitric oxide (NO) produced by plants for the associated microbiota remains elusive.

Using Arabidopsis thaliana isogenic mutants overproducing NO (nox1, NO overexpression) or down‐producing NO (i.e. nia1nia2 impaired in the expression of both nitrate reductases NR1/NIA1 and NR2/NIA2; the 35s::GSNOR1 line overexpressing nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) and 35s::AHB1 line overexpressing haemoglobin 1 (AHB1)), we investigated how altered NO homeostasis affects microbial communities in the rhizosphere and in the roots, soil microbial activity and soil metabolites.

We show that the rhizosphere microbiome was affected by the mutant genotypes, with the nox1 and nia1nia2 mutants causing opposite shifts in bacterial and fungal communities compared with the wild‐type (WT) Col‐0 in the rhizosphere and roots, respectively. These mutants also exhibited distinctive soil metabolite profiles than those from the other genotypes while soil microbial activity did not differ between the mutants and the WT Col‐0.

Our findings support our hypothesis that changes in NO production by plants can influence the plant microbiome composition with differential effects between fungal and bacterial communities.
Effects of online high‐definition transcranial direct current stimulation over left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on predominant negative symptoms and EEG functional connectivity in patients with schizophrenia: a randomized, double‐blind, controlled trial
Authors: Yeh Ta‐Chuan , Lin Yen‐Yue , Tzeng Nian‐Sheng , Kao Yu‐Chen , Chung Yong‐An , Chang Chuan‐Chia , Fang Hsu‐Wei , Chang Hsin‐An
Published: September 2024

Aims

Schizophrenia, a debilitating mental disorder, is characterized by persistent negative symptoms such as avolition and anhedonia. Currently, there are no effective treatments available for these symptoms. Thus, our study aims to assess the efficacy of online high‐definition transcranial direct current stimulation (online HD‐tDCS) in addressing the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, utilizing a double‐blind, randomized, sham‐controlled trial design.

Methods

Fifty‐nine patients with schizophrenia were randomized to receive either active HD‐tDCS or sham stimulation, targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Outcomes were measured by changes in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Factor Score for Negative Symptom (PANSS‐FSNS). Exact low‐resolution electromagnetic tomography was used to assess the functional connectivity.

Results

All 59 participants, including 50.84% females with an average age of 43.36 years, completed the trial. In the intention‐to‐treat analysis, patients receiving active HD‐tDCS showed greater improvement in PANSS‐FSNS scores compared to those receiving the sham procedure. The differences were 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28–3.40), 4.28 (95% CI, 2.93–5.62), and 4.91 (95% CI, 3.29–6.52) after the intervention, as well as at 1‐week and 1‐month follow‐ups, respectively. A tingling sensation on the scalp was more common in the active group (63.3%) compared to the sham group (10.3%). Additionally, HD‐tDCS was associated with a decrease in delta‐band connectivity within the default mode network.

Conclusions

High‐definition transcranial direct current stimulation was effective and safe in ameliorating negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia when combined with online functional targeting.
QT interval in children with orthostatic dysregulation: Changes in standing load
Authors: Sakata Miho , Oyazato Yoshinobu , Nishiyama Atsushi
Published: September 2024

Background

The corrected QT interval (QTc) is affected by changes in autonomic sympathovagal modulation. The aim of this study was to determine whether children with orthostatic dysregulation (OD) have a longer QTc while standing than children without OD.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed patients who underwent the Schellong test and electrocardiography between November 2016 and November 2019. Patients who met the criteria of OD subtypes according to the Japanese clinical guidelines for juvenile OD (version 1) were classified as OD positive (the OD‐positive group), and patients who did not meet the criteria were classified as OD negative (the OD‐negative group).

Results

There were 73 patients in the OD‐positive group and 52 patients in the OD‐negative group. Baseline heart rate, QT interval, and QTc were comparable between the OD‐positive and OD‐negative groups. Heart rate after standing was significantly higher in the OD‐positive group than in the OD‐negative group (median: 33 bpm vs. 21 bpm, p < 0.001). Further, shortening of QT interval after standing was greater in the OD‐positive group than in the OD‐negative group (median: 19 ms vs. 8 ms, p = 0.015). The QTc significantly increased from baseline to standing in both groups. Changes in the QT interval corrected by Bazett's formula were greater in the OD‐positive group than in the OD‐negative group (median: 73 ms vs. 42 ms, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The QTc increased significantly from baseline to standing in the OD‐positive group. Thus, a high QTc while standing could be considered an auxiliary marker for OD diagnosis.
Auxin as a downstream signal positively participates in melatonin‐mediated chilling tolerance of cucumber
Authors: Yuan Xinru , Li Junqi , Zhang Xiaowei , Ai Xizhen , Bi Huangai
Published: September 2024

Here, we elucidate the interaction between IAA and melatonin (MT) in response to chilling in cucumber. The results showed that chilling stress induced the increase of endogenous MT and IAA, and the application of MT promoted the synthesis of IAA, while IAA could not affect endogenous MT content under chilling stress. Moreover, MT and IAA application both remarkably increased the chilling tolerance of cucumber seedlings in terms of lower contents of MDA and ROS, higher mRNA abundance of cold response genes, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), maximum regeneration rate of ribulose‐1,5‐diphosphate (Jmax), Rubisco maximum carboxylation efficiency (Vcmax), the activities and gene expression of RCA and Rubisco, as well as the content of active P700 (I/I0) and photosynthetic electron transport, compared with the plants in H2O treatment. Further analysis revealed that the inhibition of IAA transportation significantly reduced the chilling tolerance induced by MT, whereas the inhibition of endogenous MT did not affect the chilling tolerance induced by IAA. Meanwhile, we found that overexpression of the MT biosynthesis gene CsASMT increased the chilling tolerance, which was blocked by inhibition of endogenous IAA, and the silence of IAA biosynthesis gene CsYUCCA10 decreased the chilling tolerance of cucumber, which could not be alleviated by MT. These data implied IAA acted as a downstream signal to participate in the MT‐induced chilling tolerance of cucumber seedlings. The study has implications for the production of greenhouse cucumber in winter seasons.
Transcriptomics Combined with Physiology and Metabolomics Reveals the Mechanism of Tolerance to Lead Toxicity in Maize Seedling
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiang , Li Min , Ma Xingye , Jin Xining , Wu Xiangyuan , Zhang Huaisheng , Guan Zhongrong , Fu Zhiyuan , Chen Shilin , Wang Pingxi
Published: September 2024

Lead (Pb) exposure can induce molecular changes in plants, disrupt metabolites, and impact plant growth. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend the molecular mechanisms involved in Pb tolerance in plants to evaluate the long‐term environmental consequences of Pb exposure. This research focused on maize as the test subject to study variations in biomass, root traits, genes, and metabolites under hydroponic conditions under Pb conditions. The findings indicate that high Pb stress significantly disrupts plant growth and development, leading to a reduction in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD) activities by 17.12, 5.78, and 19.38%, respectively. Conversely, Pb stress led to increase malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, ultimately impacting the growth of maize. The non‐targeted metabolomics analysis identified 393 metabolites categorized into 12 groups, primarily consisting of organic acids and derivatives, organ heterocyclic compounds, lipids and lipid‐like molecules and benzenoids. Further analysis indicated that Pb stress induced an accumulation of 174 metabolites mainly enriched in seven metabolic pathways, for example phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and flavonoid biosynthesis. Transcriptome analysis revealed 1933 shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with 1356 upregulated and 577 downregulated genes across all Pb treatments. Additionally, an integrated analysis identified several DEGs and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), including peroxidase, alpha‐trehalose, and D‐glucose 6‐phosphate, which were linked to cell wall biosynthesis. These findings imply the significance of this pathway in Pb detoxification. This comprehensive investigation, employing multiple methodologies, provides a detailed molecular‐level insight into maize's response to Pb stress.
Standards‐based evaluation inform ecological restoration outcomes for a major mining activity in a global biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Campbell Tristan , Dixon Kingsley W. , Bradshaw Sidney D. , Gann George D. , Hartley William , Lambers Hans , Wardell‐Johnson Grant
Published: September 2024

The International Principles and Standards for the Ecological Restoration and Recovery of Mine Sites were used to assess the restoration quality of one of the world's largest mines, located in the world's most biodiverse temperate forest. Quantitative analysis of longitudinal data spanning 35 years scored restoration quality at 2‐stars against a 5‐star forest ecosystem restoration target, with little indication of improvements from adaptive management. Two‐thirds of indicator plants were significantly under‐represented in early‐stage restoration and declined with age. Most plant species were effectively absent, including key structural species. Invasive plants and native legumes were persistently overabundant. Time required for the maturation of tree species will prevent the production of fundamental ecosystem features for well over a century (e.g. hollows and fallen logs), inhibiting functional fauna return (reptiles, bats, and conservation priority cockatoos in particular). The significantly different outcome compared with previous assessments is due to the age of restoration assessed and previous assumptions that early‐stage success indicate that restoration is on the correct, prolonged trajectory toward full ecological restoration. However, previous assessment methods did not consider many key metrics of the standards, nor accurately predict future restoration trajectory. In particluar, initial plant species richness (the only measure of biodiversity in the company's restoration completion criteria) did not reflect future restoration quality. These substandard restoration outcomes may result from removing the deep, multi‐layered bauxitic substrate on which the ecosystem evolved and establishing restoration on shallow topsoil over a more homogenized, impervious substrate. This study demonstrates the value of a robust, adaptable multi‐factor framework and methodology to evaluate restoration outcomes.
Integrating theory and practice: knowledge exchange and engagement of nursery managers in ecological restoration
Authors: Lacoretz Mariela V. , Pérez Daniel R.
Published: September 2024

Ecological restoration requires the social collaboration of all stakeholders. Native plant nursery managers potentially possess substantial knowledge in native plant cultivation derived from their practical experience, and they could also be consumers of information generated by scientists. Furthermore, their active involvement in various stages of restoration projects could enhance efficiency and ensure successful outcomes. In this study, nursery managers from Argentina associated with restoration projects were surveyed to assess their level of knowledge exchange with the scientific community, the degree of participation in restoration projects, and their perceptions regarding this collaboration. The surveys were completed by 39 nursery managers from native plant nurseries in Argentina. Our findings indicated that, although nursery managers often adopted scientific protocols, there remains a significant communication gap between scientists and nursery managers. Nursery managers contributed beyond seedling production, including planning, planting, maintenance, and environmental education. Despite recognizing its importance, few nursery managers participated in project evaluations. Nursery managers could serve as both providers of cultural and practical insights and receivers of novel knowledge from the academic‐scientific realm. Moreover, as the nursery managers are familiar with the local context and can potentially facilitate connections with other local stakeholders, their involvement as additional social actors not only enhances the success but also adds legitimacy to the restoration projects they engage in. Such collaboration is crucial for achieving the goals of both international and national restoration initiatives.
Risk early warning for unmanned aerial vehicle operators’ unsafe acts: A prediction model using Human Factors Analysis and Classification System and random forest
Authors: Xiao Qin , Li Yapeng , Luo Fan
Published: September 2024

The prediction of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators’ unsafe acts is critical for preventing UAV incidents. However, there is a lack of research specifically focusing on UAV operators’ unsafe acts, and existing approaches in related areas often lack precision and effectiveness. To address this, we propose a hybrid approach that combines the Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) with random forest (RF) to predict and warn against UAV operators’ unsafe acts. Initially, we introduce an improved HFACS framework to identify risk factors influencing the unsafe acts. Subsequently, we utilize the adaptive synthetic sampling algorithm (ADASYN) to rectify the imbalance in the dataset. The RF model is then used to construct a risk prediction and early warning model, as well as to identify critical risk factors associated with the unsafe acts. The results obtained through the improved HFACS framework reveal 33 risk factors, encompassing environmental influences, industry influences, unsafe supervision, and operators’ states, contributing to the unsafe acts. The RF model demonstrates a significant improvement in prediction performance after applying ADASYN. The critical risk factors associated with the unsafe acts are identified as weak safety awareness, allowing unauthorized flight activities, lack of legal awareness, lack of supervision system, and obstacles. The findings of this study can assist policymakers in formulating effective measures to mitigate incidents resulting from UAV operators’ unsafe acts.
Comparative analysis of forecasting models in the nonlife insurance: Insights from the SARIMA and ETS approaches
Authors: Peovski Filip , Ivanovski Igor
Published: September 2024

To ensure competitiveness and sustainability, insurance companies need accurate predictions. The paper analyzes nonlife insurance gross written premiums, technical premiums, claims, and the number of contracts through a multi‐model univariate approach comparing Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) with Exponential Smoothing models. The hypothesis suggests that SARIMA's superior handling of complex seasonal patterns enhances predictive accuracy. Data from 2012M01 to 2023M06 provides a comprehensive sector‐wide view, essential for decision‐making. The results show that SARIMA models outperform exponential smoothing in almost all major accuracy metrics over the training period. Over the test period, the exponential smoothing models show more accurate performances. However, the optimal exponential smoothing models fail in mitigating autocorrelation and non‐normality in residuals, which is successfully tackled by the weighted ensemble models. In all cases except for the number of contracts concluded, the rolling one‐step ahead forecast approach generates superior accuracy over the classic training‐test split. This research confirms that using SARIMA, exponential smoothing, weighted ensemble, and rolling window models can significantly improve forecasting accuracy and are better solutions than the seasonal naive benchmark. It provides important insights into insurance forecasting and risk management, which are often overlooked in existing literature, and can greatly benefit corporate governance and policymaking.
Model‐assisted analysis of covariance estimators for stepped wedge cluster randomized experiments
Authors: Chen Xinyuan , Li Fan
Published: September 2024

Stepped wedge cluster randomized experiments (SW‐CREs) represent a class of unidirectional crossover designs. Although SW‐CREs have become popular, definitions of estimands and robust methods to target estimands under the potential outcomes framework remain insufficient. To address this gap, we describe a class of estimands that explicitly acknowledge the multilevel data structure in SW‐CREs and highlight three typical members of the estimand class that are interpretable. We then introduce four analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) working models to achieve estimand‐aligned analyses with covariate adjustment. Each ANCOVA estimator is model‐assisted, as its point estimator is consistent even when the working model is misspecified. Under the stepped wedge randomization scheme, we establish the finite population Central Limit Theorem for each estimator. We study the finite‐sample operating characteristics of the ANCOVA estimators in simulations and illustrate their application by analyzing the Washington State Expedited Partner Therapy study.
Choosing who to hate? The Extreme and Radical Right's Foreign Policy between Anti‐Semitism, Islamophobia, and Russophilia
Authors: Wondreys Jakub , Zulianello Mattia
Published: September 2024

Although extensive research has been conducted on the extreme right (ER) and radical right (RR), their foreign policy remains understudied. Hence, we provide a comparative analysis of 42 ER and RR parties in Europe to identify their stances on two key issues of contemporary international politics: the Israeli‐Palestinian and the Russia‐Ukraine conflicts. The results suggest that ER and RR parties do not choose who to like but who to hate more: either Israel (Jews) or Palestine (Muslims); either Russia or the West (and Ukraine as its proxy). However, ER and RR parties are substantially different in their positions towards both conflicts, and a stance in one conflict corresponds to a specific position in the other: the ER tends to be supportive of Palestine and Russia, while the RR supportive of Israel and Ukraine. We argue that these profound differences are due to a combination of ideological and competitive incentives.
Differential contributions of double‐strand break repair pathways to DNA rearrangements following the irradiation of Arabidopsis seeds and seedlings with ion beams
Authors: Kitamura Satoshi , Satoh Katsuya , Hase Yoshihiro , Yoshihara Ryouhei , Oono Yutaka , Shikazono Naoya
Published: September 2024

DNA rearrangements, including inversions, translocations, and large insertions/deletions (indels), are crucial for crop evolution, domestication, and improvement. The rearrangements are frequently induced by ion beams via the mis‐repair of DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs). Unfortunately, how ion beam‐induced DSBs are repaired has not been comprehensively analyzed and the mechanisms underlying DNA rearrangements remain unclear. In this study, clonal sectors originating from single mutated cells in carbon ion‐irradiated plants were used for whole‐genome sequencing analyses after Arabidopsis seeds and seedlings were irradiated. Comparative analyses of the induced mutations (e.g., size and frequency of indels and microhomology at the junctions of the rearrangements) in the irradiated materials suggested that the broken/rejoined DSB ends were more extensively processed in seedlings than in seeds. A mutation to canonical non‐homologous end‐joining (c‐NHEJ), which is a DSB repair pathway with minimal processing of DSB ends, increased the sensitivity to ion beams more in the seeds than in the seedlings, which was consistent with the junction analysis results, indicative of the minor contribution of c‐NHEJ to the carbon ion‐induced DSB repair in seedlings. Considering the characteristics of the large templated insertions in irradiated seedlings, ion‐beam‐induced DSBs in seedlings are likely repaired primarily by a polymerase theta‐mediated pathway. Polymerase theta‐deficient seedlings were more sensitive to ion beams than the c‐NHEJ‐deficient seedlings, consistent with this hypothesis. This study revealed the key characteristics of ion beam‐induced DSBs and the associated repair mechanisms related to the physiological status of the irradiated materials, with implications for elucidating the occurrence and induction of rearrangements.
Linkage and translation for tensor products of representations of simple algebraic groups and quantum groups
Authors: Gruber Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Let be either a simple linear algebraic group over an algebraically closed field of characteristic or a quantum group at an ‐th root of unity. We define a tensor ideal of singular ‐modules in the category of finite‐dimensional ‐modules and study the associated quotient category , called the regular quotient. For , the Coxeter number of , we establish a ‘linkage principle’ and a ‘translation principle’ for tensor products: Let be the essential image in of the principal block of . We first show that is closed under tensor products in . Then we prove that the monoidal structure of is governed to a large extent by the monoidal structure of . These results can be combined to give an external tensor product decomposition , where denotes the Verlinde category of .
Abordaje de la violencia intragénero en la prensa mexicana: tratamiento informativo de la violencia en parejas del mismo sexo
Authors: Rodríguez Otero Luis Manuel , Facal Fondo Teresa
Published: September 2024

Diferentes estudios han señalado la invisibilización de los colectivos LGTTTBIQ+ en la prensa, subrayando que la forma de presentar la violencia intragénero varía en función de la ideología política, el género de los/as narradores/as, las fuentes empleadas, el enfoque (desde la víctima o del agresor) y la información disponible respecto a recursos legales y comunitarios. El objetivo de este trabajo se centra en la violencia intragénero, concretamente en el abordaje de los encuadres noticiosos que prevalecieron en el tratamiento informativo de la violencia en parejas del mismo sexo por parte de la prensa mexicana. Se seleccionó una muestra de ocho periódicos y tras el cribaje nueve publicaciones. Se llevó a cabo un análisis cualitativo basado en el Test ADSH propuesto por Rojas-Estrada.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Research on the Effect of Flow Regimes for Refrigeration Performance of Wave Rotor
Authors: Ma Jian-wei , Wang Yan-qiang , Zhou Zi-qi , Liu Zhi-chao , Sun Yu-wen
Published: September 2024

Wave rotors exchange energy through the interaction of fluids with different pressures to produce a cooling effect without the application of mechanical parts, which makes them suitable for the complex flow field environments. But the flow situation inside the wave rotor is complex, and research on the impact of various flow regimes for the refrigeration efficiency is currently incomplete. This study deals with the numerical simulation and the experimental verification of a four-port fixed rotor gas wave refrigerator. Various typical flow regimes within the wave rotor were obtained through simulation to analyze their impact on the refrigeration efficiency. To further demonstrate the effectiveness of the simulation results, experimental verification was conducted. The simulation results indicate that separation bubbles and vortices will be respectively generated on the upper and lower walls of the wave rotor tube during the gradual opening stage. Vortex affects the airflow flow and causes detachment of separation bubbles as the airflow moves, which results in the loss of pressure energy and kinetic energy of the incident gas. As a result, the loss caused by the gradual opening process leads to a decrease in the self-expansion ability of high-pressure gas during the gradual closing stage, thereby affecting the refrigeration effect. Therefore, reducing the influence of vortices plays an important role in improving the cooling efficiency of wave rotors. Finally, this study analyzes the main factors that affect the cooling effect within the wave rotor through flow regime and provides new insights for improving refrigeration efficiency.