bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tocilizumab treatment leads to early resolution of lymphopenia and myeloid dysregulation in patients hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Shivram Haridha , Hackney Jason A. , Rosenberger Carrie M , Teterina Anastasia , Qamra Aditi , Onabajo Olusegun , McBride Jacqueline , Cai Fang , Bao Min , Tsai Larry , Regev Aviv , Rosas Ivan O. , Bauer Rebecca N.
Published: October 2022

High interleukin (IL)-6 levels are associated with more severe clinical manifestations in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, but the complex role of IL-6 in antiviral and inflammatory processes has made it difficult to decipher its involvement in the disease. IL-6 receptor blockade by tocilizumab (anti-IL6R; Actemra) is used globally for the treatment of severe COVID-19, yet a molecular understanding of the therapeutic benefit remains unclear. We characterized the immune profile and identified cellular and molecular pathways directly modified by tocilizumab in peripheral blood samples collected from patients enrolled in the COVACTA study, a phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that assessed the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. We identified factors predicting disease severity and clinical outcomes, including markers of inflammation, lymphopenia, myeloid dysregulation, and organ injury. Proteomic analysis confirmed a pharmacodynamic effect for tocilizumab in addition to identifying novel pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that tocilizumab treatment leads to faster resolution of lymphopenia and myeloid dysregulation associated with severe COVID-19, indicating greater anti-inflammatory activity relative to standard of care and potentially leading to faster recovery in patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

One sentence summary

Interleukin-6 receptor blockade with tocilizumab accelerated resolution of myeloid dysfunction and lymphopenia in patients hospitalized with COVID-19
How predictable is rapid evolution?
Authors: Behrman Emily L. , Schmidt Paul
Published: October 2022

Although evolution is historically considered a slow, gradual process, it is now clear that evolution can occur rapidly over generational timescales. It remains unclear both how predictable rapid evolution is and what timescales are ecologically relevant due to a paucity of longitudinal studies. We use a common garden approach to measure genetic-based change in complex, fitness-associated traits that are important for climatic adaptation in wildDrosophilaover multiple timescales: an estimated 1-16 generations within each year and 48-89 generations over five consecutive years. Evolution is fast and pervasive with parallel patterns of rapid evolution in three distinct locations that span 4º latitude. Developmental time evolves consistently across seasons with flies collected in spring developing faster than those collected in autumn. The evolutionary trajectory of stress traits (heat knockdown and starvation) depends on the severity of the preceding winter: harsh winters result in a predictable evolutionary trajectory with high stress tolerance in spring flies that declines in the subsequent generations across the summer. Flies collected after mild winters do not evolve in a predictable pattern but may utilize an alternative strategy as plasticity for chill coma recovery and starvation evolves across seasons. Overall, winter severity determines the predictability of rapid seasonal evolution, but there are also long-term shifts in the phenotypic correlations and allele frequencies that indicate long-term population changes that have broader implications for how organisms respond to the changing climate.

Significance Statement

Adaptive tracking may result in rapid evolution over short timescales, but the repeatability and predictability of rapid adaptation is less well resolved without long-term, multi-year analyses. Here, we collect wild flies at regular intervals across five years to determine what traits evolve consistently over seasons and which environmental variables predict this rapid evolution. Traditional temperate seasonal patterns of harsh winters are crucial for normal selection patterns, although independently changing phenotypic and genetic correlations help the populations respond to long-term shifts over years, particularly in response to heat stress. This has the implication that populations may be flexible within certain genetic constraints to adapt to changing climatic temperatures.
Natural heteroclitic-like peptides are generated by SARS-CoV-2 mutations
Authors: Tiezzi Camilla , Vecchi Andrea , Rossi Marzia , Cavazzini Davide , Bolchi Angelo , Laccabue Diletta , Sacchelli Luca , Brillo Federica , Meschi Tiziana , Ticinesi Andrea , Nouvenne Antonio , Donofrio Gaetano , Zanelli Paola , Benecchi Magda , Giuliodori Silvia , Fisicaro Paola , Montali Ilaria , Urbani Simona , Pedrazzi Giuseppe , Missale Gabriele , Telenti Amalio , Corti Davide , Ottonello Simone , Ferrari Carlo , Boni Carolina
Published: October 2022

Mutations carried by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein variants may promote viral escape from immune protection. Humoral immunity is sensitive to evasion by SARS-CoV-2 mutants, but the impact of viral evolution on the interplay between virus and host CD8 T cell reactivity remains uncertain. By a systematic functional analysis of 30 spike variant mutations, we show that in vaccinated as well as convalescent subjects, mutated epitopes can have not only a neutral or abrogating effect on the recognition by CD8 T cells but can also enhance or even generate de novo CD8 T cell responses. Large pools of peptides spanning the entire spike sequence and comprising previously identified CD8 T cell epitopes were then used in parallel with variant peptides to define strength and multispecificity of total anti-spike CD8 responses. In some individuals, CD8 cells were narrowly focused on a few epitopes indicating that in this context of weak and oligospecific responses the overall antiviral protection can likely benefit of the function enhancing effect of heteroclitic-like mutations. In conclusion, appearance of mutated stimulatory epitopes likely reflects an epiphenomenon of SARS-CoV-2 evolution driven by antibody evasion and increased transmissibility, that might bear clinical relevance in a subset of individuals with weak and oligospecific CD8 T cell responses.
Rapid and efficient room-temperature serial synchrotron crystallography using the CFEL TapeDrive
Authors: Zielinski Kara A , Prester Andreas , Andaleeb Hina , Bui Soi , Yefanov Oleksandr , Catapano Lucrezia , Henkel Alessandra , Wiedorn Max O. , Lorbeer Olga , Crosas Eva , Meyer Jan , Mariani Valerio , Domaracky Martin , White Thomas A. , Fleckenstein Holger , Sarrou Iosifina , Werner Nadine , Betzel Christian , Rohde Holger , Aepfelbacher Martin , Chapman Henry N. , Perbandt Markus , Steiner Roberto A. , Oberthuer Dominik
Published: October 2022

Serial crystallography at conventional synchrotron light sources (SSX) offers the possibility to routinely collect data at room temperature using micrometre-sized crystals of biological macromolecules. However, SSX data collection is not yet as routine and currently takes significantly longer than the standard rotation series cryo-crystallography. Thus, its use for high-throughput approaches, such as fragment-based drug screening, where the possibility to measure at physiological temperatures would be a great benefit, is impaired. On the way to high-throughput SSX using a conveyor belt based sample delivery system – the CFEL TapeDrive – with three different proteins of biological relevance (Klebsiella pneumoniae CTX-M-14 β-lactamase, Nectria haematococca xylanase GH11 and Aspergillus flavus urate oxidase), it is shown here that complete datasets can be collected in less than a minute and only minimal amounts of sample are required.
Car-following traffic model based on PID control: modelling and simulation
Authors: Han Shuang , Zhang Jing , Yang Quanyue , Yuan Zijian , Li Shubin , Cui Fengying , Zhang Chuntang , Wang Tao
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The performance of the classical car-following system is easily affected by external disturbances. To enhance the performance of the classical car-following model under sudden external disturbances, a novel car-following model is established to smooth traffic flow.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposed a Proportion Integration Differentiation (PID) control strategy based on classical control theory and developed a novel car-following model. The linear system theory and Laplace transform are used to derive a closed-loop transfer function. Then, the stability condition is obtained by using the Routh stability criterion and the small gain theorem. Finally, the validity and feasibility of the PID control strategy is proved by numerical simulations.

Findings

The analytic results and the numerical simulation results show that both the integration part and the differential part have the positive effect to suppress traffic oscillation efficiently; the collaboration of these two parts has more power to improve the stability of traffic flow. It means that the proposed model integrated with the PID control strategy has the ability of anti-interference and smooth traffic compared with the classical car-following model.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the PID control strategy into the classical car-following system, which enhances the stability of the system and also provides an efficient method for optimizing the traffic flow system.
An integrated method of automated layout design and optimization for modular construction
Authors: Zheng Zihao , Li Yuanqi , Torres Jaume
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a generative design method combined with meta-heuristic algorithm for automating and optimizing the floor layout of modular buildings using typical standardized module units, which are the room module, the corridor module and the stair module.

Design/methodology/approach

The integrated framework involves the generative design method and optimization for modular construction. The generative rules are provided by geometric relationships and functionalities of the module units. An evaluation function of the generated floor plans is also presented by the combination of project cost and cost penalties for the geometric features. The multi-population genetic algorithm (MPGA) method is provided for the optimization of the combination of costs.

Findings

The proposed MPGA method is demonstrated fast and efficient at discovering the globally optimal solution. The results indicate that when the unit price of modules is high, the transportation distance is long, or the land cost is high, the layout cost, which related to the symmetry, the compactness and the energy is tend to be lower, making the optimal layout economical.

Originality/value

This paper presented an integrated framework of generative floor layout and optimization for modular construction by using typical module units. It fulfills the need for automated layout generation with repetitive units and corresponding assessment during the early design stage.
Organizational abortion support benefits in the post-Roe world: employee and employer perspectives
Authors: Goldberg Caren , Cheung Ho Kwan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The authors discuss the implications of the recent United States Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson and its impact on employees and employers. Although several employers issued public statements regarding the provision of abortion-related benefits, the authors highlight some of the obstacles to their implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

With a focus on employee wellbeing, the authors discuss the obstacles in implementing abortion care benefits.

Findings

While it is encouraging to see many organizations make public statements in support of abortion rights, the authors temper their enthusiam with questions about practicality.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the research on hidden stigmas and the job demands-resources model, the authors argue that employees who need to use abortion-related benefits may be unlikely to seek them.

Practical implications

The authors highlight some unanswered questions relating to the requesting and granting of abortion healthcare benefits.

Social implications

The Dobbs decision takes away rights. While the authors applaud organizations’ efforts to restore them, facilitating access to an abortion in other states is quite complicated.

Originality/value

Although abortions are very common, very little organizational research has addressed the topic. In light of the Dobbs v. Jackson decision, the paper raises some timely questions about employer-sponsored abortion healthcare.
Health information seeking on social media: the diversification approach
Authors: Rosenberg Dennis , Mano Rita , Mesch Gustavo S.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Internet studies have rarely addressed gender and/or ethnic differences in health information seeking on social media. Moreover, the role of locality size in explanation of this phenomenon has been overlooked. This study proposed a diversification approach to address these issues. According to it, belonging to numerous disadvantaged groups increases the probability of health-related Internet/social media use.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected via telephone survey. The sample consisted of 798 Israeli Internet users who reported using social media for any purpose, gender, ethnic affiliation and locality of residence. The data were analysed using a logistic regression technique.

Findings

Arab female social media users, who resided in small localities, were more likely than the other studied social groups to seek both non-medical and medical information on social media. Furthermore, Arab female social media users were found having the highest likelihood among all studied social groups to seek information regarding physical activity and medications on social media.

Practical implications

The findings largely supported the diversification approach and signal a major need for a greater supply of public health information for members of minority groups, especially those residing in small localities.

Originality/value

The study investigates triple social disadvantage in health-related social media use.
Research data services in libraries: a systematic literature review
Authors: Safdar Muhammad , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Arif Muhammad , Ashiq Murtaza
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to systematically collect and review all studies which have been conducted on research data services in libraries across the globe.

Design/methodology/approach

Six world-renowned scholarly databases were searched and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used for the identification and selection of eligible studies. The studies were then assessed using a well-renowned framework for the quality assessment of research studies.

Findings

The results revealed that the libraries were engaged in providing different types of research data services such as identification, acquisition, management and preservation of research data. They also arranged training programs, supported the publishing and sharing of data and dealt with the licensing and copyright issues related to data.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study would be helpful for researchers and organizations, especially those engaged in educational activities, in understanding the current scenario of research data services in the world libraries. Furthermore, the findings offer valuable insights to library professionals regarding the types of research support services available globally. This would enable them to play an integral role in planning, designing and implementing such services in their libraries.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind that systematically collects and reviews the literature on research data services in libraries worldwide.
Enhancing supply chain information sharing with third party logistics service providers
Authors: Valashiya Mbali Cynthia , Luke Rose
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study evaluated the enhancement of information sharing practices with third party logistics service providers (3PLs) in a supply chain solutions company that provides transport and warehousing software in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods case study was conducted to investigate the problem. Both strands of quantitative and qualitative data were given equal priority. Three rounds of primary data were sequentially collected, analysed and triangulated. An online questionnaire was distributed to a sampling frame of seventeen companies which were randomly selected from the population. Three company executives were purposively sampled to participate in a focus group interview. Data from an open-ended questionnaire were used to explain and validate the findings from clients and executives who participated in the two preceding rounds of data collection.

Findings

It was found that information sharing improves the collaboration of channel members, increases competitive advantage and ultimately leads to better customer service. The improvement of relationships and continuous technological upgrades are recommended for improving visibility of information and effectiveness in the management of supply chains.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the characteristics of the case study methodology. Case study research suffers from restricted generalisability, problems with cross-checking and the risk of bias and subjectivity. This implies that the results of this case study may not be generalised to the overall population. The selection of a mixed methods design was intended to curb the limitations that are inherent to this study.

Practical implications

This study was limited to a few respondents and participants, which raises concerns about both the statistical power and the generalisability of the results. However, the results provide useful insights into some of the information sharing practices in the industry.

Originality/value

The value of the study contributes to the supply chain's dependence on 3PLs for value creation and the reliance on technology to share information amongst channel members. This study highlights a need for organisations to build collaborative relationships with 3PLs and continuously update technological infrastructure in order to meet supply chain network goals.
Contentions in the study of China’s political economy: building common ground
Authors: Li Shaomin , Farrell Matthew
Published: October 2022

Purpose

A main challenge in studying China is that different views clash. A more serious challenge is that studies that are critical of or dissent from the Chinese government policies are labeled “anti-China” by the Chinese authorities, affecting the free academic exchange of ideas on China. This article discusses this issue and proposes a long-term solution.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a perspective study and uses the qualitative approach to develop the authors’ arguments.

Findings

The authors argue that the contention in China-related studies is derived primarily from the different perspectives that scholars use. This study identifies two main perspectives: the China-centric view and the rest of the world’s view. The combination of the clash of perspectives and the interference of the Chinese state hinders the development of our knowledge regarding China. Using Rawls’ theory of justice and the veil of ignorance, the authors propose to build common ground for the China study community based on academic freedom, equality and the rule of law. This study further shows that building the common ground is feasible.

Practical implications

The authors’ proposed common ground will help create a free environment for meaningful exchange between different perspectives and reduce the risks in China studies.

Originality/value

The authors’ angle to examine the contentiousness and riskiness of China studies is new. It is the first time that different perspectives on China studies are delineated and compared, the costs of the contentiousness and riskiness are assessed, and the long-term consequences of different paths are examined.
LGBTQ-inclusive fan codes of conduct in US athletic departments: a multilevel analysis
Authors: Melton E. Nicole , Cunningham George B. , MacCharles Jeffrey D. , Isard Risa F.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Sport organizations increasingly emphasize their support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) inclusion by promoting a perfect score on the Athlete Ally Equality Index, partnering with nonprofits to increase awareness of LGBTQ individuals in sport (e.g. Rainbow Laces campaign), or hosting a pride night for LGBTQ fans. Despite these and similar efforts, LGBTQ fans historically have felt unwelcome in sport settings, thereby signaling the need for inclusive fan codes of conduct. The purpose of this study was to examine both the prevalence and antecedents of such policies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using publicly available data sources, the authors focused on 350 Division 1 college athletic departments in the USA.

Findings

Results illustrate factors at both the macro (i.e. institution) and meso- (i.e. athletic department) levels interact to explain whether a school will possess a fan code of conduct. Specifically, research-intensive institutions with strong gender equity are more likely to possess a code of conduct than schools that are not research oriented and have weak gender equity. This project extends the understanding of LBGTQ inclusion in the sports industry.

Originality/value

The current study is the first to examine the prevalence and predictors of LGBTQ-inclusive fan codes of conduct. Understanding these dynamics can help athletic programs that want to create safe and inclusive sport spaces for LGBTQ fans and spectators.
Forensic vigilance in forensic professionals: development, reliability and factor structure of the forensic vigilance estimate
Authors: Clercx Maartje , Didden Robert , Craig Leam A. , Keulen-de Vos Marije
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Forensic vigilance is a central competency that forensic professionals need to meet the complex demands of working in forensic settings. Until recently, no instrument for forensic vigilance was available. This study aims to develop a self-assessment tool of forensic vigilance for individuals and teams working in forensic settings, and investigated its psychometric properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The Forensic Vigilance Estimate (FVE) was presented to 367 forensic psychiatric professionals and 94 non-forensic psychiatric professionals by means of an online survey. Professionals rated themselves on 15 aspects of forensic vigilance.

Findings

The results indicated that the FVE had good psychometric properties, reflected by a good to excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α of 0.903), a good split-half reliability (0.884) and good test–retest reliability (0.809). The factor structure of the FVE was captured by a one-factor model (RMSEA 0.09, SRMR 0.05, TLI 0.91 and CFI 0.92). Proportion of explained variance was 52%. Forensic professionals scored significantly higher than non-forensic professionals on the FVE (t(459) = 3.848, p = 0.002).

Practical implications

These results suggest that the FVE may reliably be used for research purposes, e.g. to study the effects of targeted training or intervention or increasing work experience on forensic vigilance or to study which factors influence forensic vigilance.

Originality/value

This study represents the first attempt to capture forensic vigilance with a measuring instrument.
“Whether you like my skin or not, I am here”: skilled racial minority migrant women's experiences of navigating career challenges in the White Icelandic labor market
Authors: Christiansen Thora H. , Kristjánsdóttir Erla Sólveig
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of skilled racial minority migrant (SRMM) women who hold management positions in the White Icelandic labor market and to understand how gender, race, ethnicity and migrant status intersect to shape experiences of privilege and disadvantage.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper phenomenological methodology was applied to analyze in-depth interviews with twelve SRMM women. Iceland provides rich context of high gender and social equality, but limited recognition of ethnic and racial differences.

Findings

SRMM women's self-efficacy and agency allowed them to source strength from their background and experiences of challenges. Through reframing they adopted a mindset of resilience and determination, proactively redefined the context, turned negatively stereotyped identities into positive assets and engaged strategically with barriers based on gender, language or migrant status. In contrast, the subtle and covert nature of racial prejudice in the context of the invisible norm of Whiteness felt impossible to address.

Originality/value

The study provides insight into the experiences of SRMM women who have attained upper- and middle-management positions. The findings illuminate the overt and covert barriers that the women experience on their career journey in the context of a White labor market that emphasizes egalitarianism and gender equality but does not engage with ethnic or racial prejudice. They highlight the role of self-efficacy and agency in deploying strategies to negotiate intersecting barriers and how that agency is disadvantaged by the invisible norm of Whiteness.
Executives' narcissism and decision making: reviewing 20 years of accounting literature
Authors: Ismail Raghdaa Ali , Zaki Osama , Abou-El-Sood Heba
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a systematic review of literature pertaining to how executive behavioral characteristics relate to financial reporting decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors review 44 papers published between 2001 and 2021 in top journals that are nested in leading business, economic and accounting journals.

Findings

Through the systematic review, the authors provide a framework for the emergence of narcissism and how it relates to decision making and hence, firm performance. Additionally, this paper identifies different measures of measuring narcissism with their pros and cons and suggest that different measures lead to different outcomes in prior literature.

Originality/value

The study contributes to a growing stream of research on executives' attributes influence on decision making. The authors recommend that future research may focus more on the chief financial officer (CFO) role as the majority of literature in CEO based. Additionally, the authors suggest that different settings may moderate the outcomes, and the authors propose that future research may be conducted to show how the regulatory environment affects or moderates narcissism effect.
The experiences of human resource professionals in managing career development of an ageing workforce: a narrative thematic analysis
Authors: Mok Irene , Mackenzie Lynette , Thomson Kate
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the experience of human resource (HR) professionals in managing career development for older workers. It focuses on the influence of personal, social and organisational experiences of HR professionals on (1) their approach to career development of older workers and (2) their organisation's career development practices for older workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews with 14 HR professionals from large organisations with at least half of their workforce aged 45 and above. The transcripts were analysed thematically, with the coding process informed by Ricoeur's theory of interpretation.

Findings

Three main themes emerged within the HR professionals' narratives. They identified with (1) the protagonist mindset in career development stories, (2) the enabling enforcer of individualised career development practices and (3) the agent for change in career development practices.

Practical implications

This study shows that a narrative thematic analysis can be used to explore how the experiences of HR professionals can affect the design and implementation of career development strategies for this cohort of workers. Further, recruiting HR professionals with a protagonist mindset can generate organisational practices inclusive of older workers.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to focus on the role of HR professionals in managing career development practices for older workers and the influence of supportive managers on their attitudes and actions with older workers.
Development and evaluation of cloud-based virtual reality for design evaluation: multicriteria comparative analysis
Authors: Sinoeurn Daluch , Panuwatwanich Kriengsak
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The study aims to introduce a cloud-based virtual reality (VR) approach and investigate its applicability and performance in aiding the remote design evaluation process by assessing the clients' convenience perception toward cloud-based VR-aided design evaluation (Cloud-based VR Approach) compared to 3D model-aided design evaluation (3D Model Approach) and rendering images-aided design evaluation (Image Approach).

Design/methodology/approach

A multicriteria comparative study was conducted with 26 university students using the “analytic hierarchy process” technique to compare the three approaches applied to home finishing material selection tasks based on the five “service convenience” dimensions, consisting of access convenience, decision convenience, transaction convenience, benefit convenience and post-benefit convenience.

Findings

The results indicated that the “Cloud-based VR Approach” was perceived to be more convenient than the “3D Model Approach” and the “Image Approach” based on the aspects of “decision convenience”, “transaction convenience”, “benefit convenience” and “post-benefit convenience”. The only aspect that the Cloud-based VR Approach was comparatively less convenient than the 3D Model Approach and Image Approach for the user was “access convenience”. Overall, the findings showed that the developed Cloud-based VR Approach had more potential than the conventional approaches in aiding the design evaluation process under ongoing social distancing measures requiring designers and clients to work remotely.

Originality/value

The disastrous impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on logistical systems have resulted in massive disruptions to the construction industry worldwide. Various construction activities have been halted and most meetings moved online. Design evaluation conducted between clients and designers is one of the important activities affected by such an impact. Thus, this study presents the Cloud-based VR Approach as an innovative means to maintain essential ongoing activities and meeting of the current design evaluation approach with respect to the social distancing measures.
Responsible Investment and Stock Market Shocks: Short‐Term Insurance without Persistence
Authors: Eisenkopf Jana , Juranek Steffen , Walz Uwe
Published: October 2022

We investigate the differential effect of the COVID‐19 shock on the share prices of firms with different levels of ESG (environmental, social and governance) scores. Thereby, we analyse whether and to what extent higher ESG ratings provided insurance for investors in the stocks of those firms during this shock. We focus our analysis on the European market, in which ESG investment plays a particularly important role. Using a broad sample of listed firms, we provide mixed evidence. On the one hand, we show that immediately after the start of the shock, firms with a higher ESG score outperformed their peers. On the other hand, this effect faded less than 6 weeks later. Given the quick recovery of the market, our findings support the idea that ESG stocks provide limited insurance and act as a risk‐mitigating device in severe crises.
Market Capacity, Information Exchange and Imperfect Matching: Evidence from the Chinese Venture Capital Market
Authors: Fu Hui , Qi Yawei , An Yunbi , Zhang Minjie
Published: October 2022

This paper examines imperfect matching between venture capital (VC) firms and entrepreneurial firms in the VC market. We find an anomaly of imperfect matching evidenced by an inflection point of the matching structure in the Chinese VC market. When the market capacity is within a specific critical range, the greater the market capacity, the greater the degree of matching; when the market capacity exceeds a certain critical point, the greater the market capacity, the smaller the degree of matching. We further show that the degree of efficient information exchange in the VC market provides a powerful explanation for this anomaly. Our findings advance the research on matching structures at the market level, explain imperfect matching in the Chinese VC market from a unique angle and provide valuable policy implications for the development of VC markets.
Scenes of Domestic Citizenship in Negro Home Demonstration Work 1921–1938
Authors: Walker Jessica Kenyatta
Published: October 2022

Reading two United States Department of Agriculture propaganda films, Helping the Negro Farmer (1921) and The Negro Farmer (1939) along with Maryland narrative reports, this article considers the evolution of state‐sanctioned discourse around domestic science, race and diet. The films rely on themes that construct the Negro home as a foil to a whitewashed progressive domestic front. Tasked with reforming this home, Negro female home demonstration agents participated in these films and worked as interlocutors, selling the narrative of kitchens as workshops of patriotism and civility. Yet, they also negotiated a form of domestic citizenship, crafting tactics of early Black food sovereignty despite being underfunded. This important period of African American foodways urges us to consider how agents were both framed as expert and expendable in the production of a national domestic standard.
Elevated end‐of‐life spending: A new measure of potentially wasteful health care spending at the end of life
Authors: Zhang Yongkang , Gupta Atul , Nicholson Sean , Li Jing
Published: October 2022

Objective

To construct a new measure of end‐of‐life (EoL) spending—the elevated EoL spending—and examine its associations with measures of quality of care and patient and physician preferences in comparison with the commonly used total Medicare EoL spending measures.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Medicare claims data for a 20% random sample of Medicare fee‐for‐service (FFS) patients, from the health care quality data for 2015–2016, from the Hospital Compare and the Medicare Geographic Variation public use file, and survey data about patient and physician preferences.

Study Design

We constructed the elevated EoL spending measure as the differential monthly spending between decedents and survivors with the same one‐year mortality risk, where the risk was predicted using machine learning models. We then examined the associations of the hospital referral region (HRR)‐level elevated EoL spending with various health care quality measures and with the survey‐elicited patient and provider preferences. We also examined analogous associations for monthly total EoL spending on decedents.

Data Extraction Methods

Medicare FFS patients who were continuously enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B in 2015 and were alive as of January 1, 2016.

Principal Findings

We found a large variation in the elevated EoL spending across HRRs in the United States. There was no evidence of an association between HRR‐level elevated EoL spending and established health care quality measures, including those specific to EoL care, whereas total EoL spending was positively associated with certain quality of care measures. We also found no evidence that elevated EoL spending was associated with patient preferences for EoL care. However, elevated EoL spending was positively and significantly associated with physician preferences for treatment intensity.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that elevated EoL spending captures different resource use from conventional measures of EoL spending and may be more valuable in identifying potentially wasteful spending.
The clock gene, period, influences migratory flight and reproduction of the oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata (Walker)
Authors: Ji Jiayue , Liu Yueqiu , Zhang Lei , Cheng Yunxia , Stanley David , Jiang Xingfu
Published: October 2022

The oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata, is a major long‐distance migratory insect pest of grain crops in China and other Asian countries. Migratory flights and reproductive behavior usually occur at night, regulated by a circadian rhythm. However, knowledge about the linkages between adult flight, reproduction, and clock genes is still incomplete. To fill this important gap in our knowledge, a clock gene (designated Msper) was identified and phylogenetic analysis indicated that the encoded protein (MsPER) was highly similar to PER proteins from other insect species. Quantitative RT‐PCR assays demonstrated that significantly different spatiotemporal and circadian rhythmic accumulations of mRNA encoding MsPER occurred during development under steady 14 h : 10 h light : dark conditions. The highest mRNA accumulation occurred in adult antennae and the lowest in larvae. Msper was expressed rhythmically in adult antennae, relatively less in photophase and more entering scotophase. Injecting small interference RNA (siRNA) into adult heads effectively knocked down Msper mRNA levels within 72 h. Most siRNA‐injected adults reduced their evening flight activity significantly and did not exhibit a normal evening peak of flight activity. They also failed to mate and lay eggs within 72 h. Adult mating behavior was restored to control levels by 72 h post injection. We infer that Msper is a prominent clock gene that acts in regulating adult migratory flight and mating behaviors of M. separata. Because of its influence on migration and mating, Msper may be a valuable gene to target for effective management of this migratory insect.
Experience of double plasma purification in 603 patients from a single center in Shanghai, China
Authors: Yang Xiu Hong , Fu Shun Kun , Jin Hui Min
Published: October 2022

Introduction

To summarize the clinical experiences with double plasma purification (DPP).

Method

Using Plasauto iQ automatic blood purification system, model KM‐9000 for DPP.

Results

A total of 603 patients with different entity undergoing 811 purification procedures were included in this study. The most common purification modes were dual filtration plasma plasmapheresis (DFPP). Hyperlipidemia was the lead entity, 423 patients with hyperlipidemia performed DFPP, and two cases of severe acute pancreatitis caused by extremely high triglyceride levels completely recovered after two consecutive DFPP treatments. DFPP combined with immunosuppressants tended to decrease independent HD and reduced HD frequency in 53 patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis. Two patients developed hypotensive or hypoglycemia episodes, respectively, during purification procedures.

Conclusion

DPP is rapid for the treatment of patients with severe hyperlipidemia and acute pancreatitis caused by severely high triglyceride levels. For those who are intolerant to statins，DPP provides another treatment choice. DPP process is safe.
Development of epigenetic biomarkers for the identification of sex and thermal stress in fish using DNA methylation analysis and machine learning procedures
Authors: Valdivieso Alejandro , Anastasiadi Dafni , Ribas Laia , Piferrer Francesc
Published: October 2022

The sex ratio is a key ecological demographic parameter crucial for population viability. However, the epigenetic mechanisms operating during gonadal development regulating gene expression and the sex ratio remain poorly understood. Moreover, there is interest in the development of epigenetic markers associated with a particular phenotype or as sentinels of environmental effects. Here, we profiled DNA methylation and gene expression of 10 key genes related to sex development and stress, including steroidogenic enzymes, and growth and transcription factors. We provide novel information on the sex‐related differences and on the influence of elevated temperature on these genes in zebrafish, a species with mixed genetic and environmental influences on sex ratios. We identified both positive (e.g., amh, cyp11c and hsd11b2) and negative (e.g., cyp11a1 and dmrt1) correlations in unexposed males, and negative correlation (amh) in exposed females between DNA methylation and gene expression levels. Further, we combined DNA methylation analysis with machine learning procedures and found a series of informative CpGs capable not only of correctly identifying sex (based on cyp19a1a DNA methylation levels) but also of identifying whether males and females had been exposed to abnormally elevated temperature when young (based on amh and foxl2a DNA methylation levels, respectively). This was achieved in the absence of conspicuous morphological alterations of the gonads. These DNA methylation‐based epigenetic biomarkers represent molecular resources that can correctly recapitulate past thermal history and pave the way for similar findings in other species to assess potential ecological effects of environmental disturbances in the context of climate change.
FlywayNet: A hidden semi‐Markov model for inferring the structure of migratory bird networks from count data
Authors: Nicol Sam , Cros Marie‐Josée , Peyrard Nathalie , Sabbadin Régis , Trépos Ronan , Fuller Richard A. , Woodworth Bradley K.
Published: October 2022

Every year, millions of birds migrate between breeding and nonbreeding habitat, but the relative numbers of animals moving between sites are difficult to observe directly.

Here we propose FlywayNet, a discrete network model based on observed count data, to determine the most likely migration links between regions using statistical modelling and efficient inference tools. Our approach advances on previous studies by accounting for noisy observations and flexible stopover durations by modelling using interacting hidden semi‐Markov Models. In FlywayNet, individual birds sojourn in stopover nodes for a period of time before moving to other nodes with an unknown probability that we aim to estimate. Exact estimation using existing approaches is not possible, so we designed customised versions of the Monte Carlo expectation‐maximisation and approximate Bayesian computation algorithms for our model. We compare the efficiency and quality of estimation of these approaches on synthetic data and an applied case study.

Our algorithms performed well on benchmark problems, with low absolute error and strong correlation between estimated and known parameters. On a case study using citizen science count data of the Far Eastern Curlew (Numenius madagascariensis), an endangered shorebird from the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, the ABC and MCEM algorithms generated contrasting recommendations due to a difference in optimisation criteria and noise in the data. For ABC, we recovered key features of population‐level movements predicted by experts despite the challenges of noisy unstructured data.

Understanding connectivity places local conservation efforts and threat mitigation in the global context, yet it has proven difficult to rigorously quantify connectivity at the population level. Our approach provides a flexible framework to infer the structure of migratory networks in birds and other organisms.
Integrating genome‐wide association study with RNA‐seq revealed DBI as a good candidate gene for intramuscular fat content in Beijing black pigs
Authors: Yang Man , Zhang Run , Liu Xiance , Shi Guohua , Liu Hai , Wang Ligang , Hou Xinhua , Shi Lijun , Wang Lixian , Zhang Longchao
Published: October 2022

Increasing intramuscular fat (IMF) content can enhance the sensory quality of meat, including tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and color. Genome‐wide association study and RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis were used to identify candidate IMF genes in Beijing Black pigs, a popular species among consumers in northern China. Two and three single nucleotide polymorphisms were significantly associated with IMF in SSC13 and SSC15 respectively. Solute carrier family 4 member 7 (SLC4A7) on SSC13 and insulin induced gene 2 (INSIG2), coiled‐coil domain containing 93 (CCDC93), and diazepam binding inhibitor acyl‐CoA binding protein (DBI) on SSC15 are good candidate genes in this population. Furthermore, RNA‐seq analysis was performed between high and low IMF groups, and 534 differentially expressed genes were identified. In addition, based on differentially expressed genes, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors and FoxO signaling pathway pathways might contribute to IMF. Moreover, the DBI gene was identified as a candidate for IMF both by genome‐wide association study and RNA‐seq analysis, suggesting that it might be a crucial candidate gene for influencing IMF in Beijing Black pigs.
The Holistic Concept of Cancer Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Lin Lizhu
Published: October 2022

Cancer is a common disease that endangers human health around the world. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history and rich experience in treating cancer. This article starts with the differences between Chinese and Western medical theory systems, and comprehensively illustrates the core theory of TCM, which is based on a holistic philosophy. The unique characteristics and obvious advantages are presented in detail regarding long‐term survival with tumors, quality of life, symptom management, and clinical efficacy. This article aims to provide valuable insights and inspiration for scientific evaluation of the efficacy of TCM in treating cancer so as to promote Chinese medicine to the world.
Why the War on Cancer Failed
Authors: Castuera Ignacio
Published: October 2022

In 1971, President Nixon launched the “war on cancer” with great fanfare. The dramatic increase in spending on targeted cancer research was supposed to quickly yield new treatments. That did not happen. The cancer establishment, which profits from the $200 billion spent annually on cancer treatment, has never provided an adequate accounting of how more spending translates into lives saved. In fact, by the mid‐1980s, it became apparent that most of the “progress” in the war on cancer was little more than statistical sleight of hand. The death rate from cancer had climbed, not declined. Eventually, cancer deaths began to fall, but little of that improvement was due to better treatment. It was mostly a result of campaigns to reduce smoking and to promote early detection of treatable cancers. One reason the progress of treatment stalled was the unwillingness to consider unconventional treatments that were developed by doctors and other healers. Practitioners of unapproved treatments often sought refuge in Mexico from the medical apartheid system in the United States.