bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Philippines and seafaring labour export: State, non‐state and international actors in the assembly and employability of Filipino seafarers
Authors: Galam Roderick 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBased on interviews, this article examines the Philippines as a sending state from the perspective of seafaring labour export. It analyses how the outsourcing of seafaring labour and global regulation of standards of seafarer education, training and certification have broadened and deepened the involvement of international actors in Filipino seafaring labour. It situates these developments in two phases of seafaring labour migration, thereby clarifying the role of these international actors and their relationship with state and non‐state actors. These international actors have influenced Philippine policy on seafaring labour and employment, are vitally involved in assembling Filipino seafaring labour through their investment in maritime education and training and are determining Filipino seafarers' employability through their inspection of Philippine compliance with the STCW convention. Compliance with this international instrument mobilised the state to reshape the functioning of its agencies to revitalise its capacity as a sending state.
Some aspects of improving the legal regulation of labour relations: Thirty years of experience in the Baltic States
Authors: Mačernytė‐Panomariovienė Ingrida , Krasauskas Rytis , Mačiulaitis Vilius , Kārkliņa Annija , Tavits Gaabriel , Erikson Merle 
Published: December 2022

AbstractIn the context of globalisation processes, technological changes, and business mobility, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are facing the necessity to modify their approach towards the legal regulation of employment relations. Labour laws of the Baltics States, namely concerning new forms of work, work–life balance, and social dialogue, were systematised, rectified, and clarified by analysing texts that consist of primary and secondary sources. The research conducted in the article showed that the move from strict regulation to more flexible arrangements between employer and employee in these states is an ongoing process, which has been delayed for more than 10 years, because during that period the old Soviet laws inherited from the past (with appropriate amendments) were in force. Therefore, the search for new forms of work is slow, the regulation of working time remains rather strict and inflexible, and the involvement of social partners in the processes of collective bargaining remains very formal and segmented. This legal research of transformation of legal regulation of labour relations in the Baltic States might be used to forecast future developments of such legal regulation, as well as to enrich the imagination and increase the set of alternatives to be considered when drafting possible future rules.
Self‐advocates with Down syndrome research the lived experiences of COVID‐19 lockdowns in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Vaccarino Franco , Vaccarino Zandra , Armstrong Duncan , Borkin Edward , Hewitt Alexandra , Oswin Andrew , Quick Caroline , Smith Erin , Glew Averill 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundIndividuals with Down syndrome are particularly vulnerable to COVID‐19 because they are recognised as significantly immunocompromised. Yet their voices regarding their lived experiences of pandemic lockdowns have not been sought or heard.AimThis study aims to describe the lived experiences of people with Down syndrome during the pandemic lockdowns in Aotearoa New Zealand to add evidence in order to inform systemic advocacy.MethodA mixed‐methods approach positioned within an inclusive research paradigm was used, in which a group of self‐advocates with Down syndrome co‐designed a structured interview schedule and conducted 40 face‐to‐face interviews. Key themes were identified by using content analysis.ResultsDespite the difficulties associated with lockdowns and participants not receiving their usual supports and having to make significant adjustments, they remained positive, adapted well, and demonstrated a high level of resilience and adaptability.ConclusionsThe findings add to the limited research on the lived experiences of people with Down syndrome during pandemic lockdowns. This research has given them a voice to contribute to policy, government initiatives, and service providers; particularly on issues around support during lockdown and staying connected with others.
Environmental effects, gene flow and genetic drift: Unequal influences on genetic structure across landscapes
Authors: Chiu Ming‐Chih , Nukazawa Kei , Resh Vincent H. , Watanabe Kozo 
Published: December 2022

AbstractAimBoth gene flow and genetic drift can affect the genetic diversity of interacting populations. However, the influence of the complex evolutionary histories of species may be obscured by simplified assumptions about how these roles operate in nature. To examine this issue, we mechanistically explored the relative importance of environment‐mediated gene flow and genetic drift in determining genetic structure and diversity.LocationNortheast Japan.TaxonCaddisflies (Hydropsyche orientalis and Stenopsyche marmorata; Insecta: Trichoptera).MethodsWe developed a novel Bayesian framework to evaluate the individual and joint effects of these two evolutionary processes that operate through environmental networks on genetic structuring of these populations. Modelling was performed using genetic information on the two sympatric species of stream—macroinvertebrates having aerial‐dispersing adult stages. Genotyping data for samples from 41 and 30 locations were used at 98 and 162 neutral amplified fragment length polymorphism loci in H. orientalis and S. marmorata, respectively.ResultsEnvironmental conditions and habitat quality can mediate gene flow by providing different levels of resistance to interpopulation dispersal. Similarly, genetic drift may be altered through variable environmental limitations on population size. Compared to the role of genetic drift, gene flow has a greater influence on the genetic diversity of both species examined. The elevated gene‐flow levels generally increase the genetic diversity in S. marmorata, whereas no obvious trend is evident across the various degrees of gene flow in H. orientalis.Main ConclusionsInformation on environmentally mediated gene flow and genetic drift, coupled with different dispersal strategies in habitat networks, may influence management efforts and success. Consequently, evolutionary processes that act individually or jointly in determining genetic structure are important in the effectiveness of management strategies used for restoration and conservation efforts.
Cloner 3D photogrammetric facial scanner: Assessment of accuracy in a controlled clinical study
Authors: Nogueira Básia R. , Oliveira Junior Osmir B. , de Sousa Gomes Costa Joatan L. , Zanetti Thomaz Faraco , Pretel Hermes 
Published: December 2022

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the accuracy of facial measurements on three‐dimensional images obtained using a new photogrammetric scanner.Material and MethodsA total of 11 participants were included in the study. Nine customized adhesive labels were used to identify the facial landmarks: Trichion (Tri), Glabella (G), Right (Exr) and Left (Exl), Pronasal (Pn), Subnasal (Sn), Chelion right (Chr) and left (Chl) and Mentonian (Me). Two trained and calibrated examiners were responsible for performing seven linear measurements for each participant (Tri‐G, Sn‐Me, Exr‐Exl, Chr‐Chl, Exr‐Chr, Exl‐Chl, Pn‐Sn) first with a digital caliper and later with a three‐dimensional model obtained after digitalization with photogrammetric technology. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), mean difference, SD, and Bland–Altman correlation were used to compare the measurements performed.ResultsIntra and inter‐examiner reliability were excellent (ICC >0.9). In general, the measurements presented a variation of a minor 2.0 mm. However, only three measures (Sn‐Me, Exr‐Exl, and Exr‐Chr) were outside the clinical acceptability range.ConclusionsThe 3D Cloner scanner showed clinically acceptable accuracy comparable to the digital caliper with a variation of −0.8 ± 1.2 mm. Inter‐ and intra‐examiner agreement on digital measurements was also observed.Clinical SignificanceScanners with accurate 3D model reproductions associated with reliable digital measurements provide a more precise diagnosis and better planning in orofacial treatment.
Clinical presentation, investigation, underlying causes, and subsequent pregnancy outcomes among different phenotypes of second trimester miscarriage
Authors: Cheung Ka Wang , Seto Mimi Tin Yan , Wang Weilan , Mok Yin Kwan , Cheung Vincent Y. T. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractAimTo evaluate the causes of miscarriage and subsequent pregnancy outcomes among different phenotypes of second trimester miscarriage.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 170 consecutive second trimester miscarriages between 14 + 0 and 23 + 6 weeks recorded in the Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System from 2012 to 2021. Cases were excluded if miscarriages occurred before 14 + 0 weeks of gestation, data were incomplete, or passage of the fetus happened before the clinical assessment. Cases were classified with a stepwise approach into three phenotypic groups including silent miscarriages (ST‐SM), rupture of membranes (ST‐ROM), and inevitable miscarriages (ST‐IM) depending on the fetal heart pulsation and leakage of liquor at presentation. Clinical investigation of the underlying causes and the outcome of the subsequent pregnancy was then reviewed.ResultsThere were 97 cases of ST‐SM, 21 cases of ST‐ROM, and 52 cases of ST‐IM. Placental histology and karyotype examination were more likely to yield significant results in the cases of ST‐ROM and ST‐SM (p < 0.05). The phenotypic examination identified different underlying causes including fetal anomaly, suspected cervical insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, and unknown causes (p < 0.001).Sixty‐four cases achieved a subsequent pregnancy. Although women with history of ST‐ROM and ST‐IM received more cervical length monitoring and cervical cerclage than those with ST‐SM (66.7% vs. 44.4% vs. 7.5%, p = 0.0002; and 16.7% vs. 22.2% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.031, respectively), the risk of recurrent second trimester miscarriage was higher in ST‐ROM and ST‐IM than in ST‐SM (16.7% vs. 0%, p = 0.018).ConclusionThe classification can differentiate different second trimester miscarriage phenotypes, which offers essential information to guide investigation panels of the underlying cause of miscarriages, and the prognosis and management of subsequent pregnancy. Future researches focused on second trimester miscarriage should report their findings according to different phenotypes.
Dynamic resource‐acquisition strategies: Analysis of survivor betweenness centrality relationships after downsizing
Authors: Moore Ozias A. , Susskind Alex M. , Margolin Drew 
Published: December 2022

AbstractThis paper investigates dynamic changes in instrumental (i.e., work‐related) tie‐seeking patterns and the structure of a communication network following a downsizing event—whereby many employees are simultaneously eliminated from a network. Our analysis spans a two‐year period and applies a resource‐ and network‐change approach to examine how survivors develop revised resource‐acquisition strategies while repositioning themselves after a downsizing. Our results demonstrate that two temporary logics of tie formation—a suspension of within‐unit homophily and a preference for seeking ties with long‐tenured employees—help employees acquire betweenness centrality during the disruption period. Specifically, we find that disruption initiates a transitional period after downsizing in which new tie‐making logics are employed, including seeking out ties with long‐tenured employees and employees outside of one's department. We observed post‐disruption, during the stabilization period after downsizing, where logics used for tie‐making in the disruption period were abandoned, pre‐disruption tie‐making logics were resumed, and betweenness centrality remained relatively constant. We discuss the theoretical and managerial implications of these results and suggest future research directions.
Glutamine promotes the proliferation of epithelial cells via mTOR/S6 pathway in oral lichen planus
Authors: Hu Jiaqi , Ling Zihang , Li Wei , Su Zhangci , Lu Jingyi , Zeng Qi , Cheng Bin , Tao Xiaoan 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundAlthough abnormal cell proliferation and apoptosis are associated with the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus (OLP), the exactly mechanism of which is not yet known. It has been reported that glutamine (Gln) can promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of various tumor cells. This study aims to evaluate the effect of Gln metabolism on the balance of proliferation and apoptosis in epithelial cells of OLP.MethodsThirty human OLP specimens and 11 normal controls were stained by immunohistochemistry to detect the levels of proliferation and Gln metabolism related proteins. Then, the critical role of Gln in cell proliferation and apoptosis was determined by Gln deprivation or treatment with glutaminase inhibitor (CB‐839) to intervene Gln metabolism in human gingival epithelial cells. Cell proliferation was detected using CCK8, p‐mTOR and p‐S6 proteins were detected using Western Blot, cell apoptosis and cell cycle were detected using flow cytometry, and cell stress was detected using immunofluorescence.ResultsCompared with normal controls, OLP specimens showed higher levels of Ki‐67 and Gln metabolism‐related proteins, including Gln transporter (ASCT2), glutaminase (GLS), and pathway proteins (p‐mTOR and p‐S6). In vitro, Gln promoted cell proliferation and simultaneously upregulated the activity of mTOR/S6 pathway. Moreover, rapamycin, an mTOR pathway inhibitor, could effectively block the Gln‐induced cell proliferation. MHY1485, an mTOR pathway agonist, could effectively reverse the decline of cell proliferation under Gln deprivation. In addition, inhibiting Gln metabolism caused the accumulation of intracellular radical oxygen species (ROS) and induced cell apoptosis. However, N‐acetylcysteine reversed this state and then decreased cell apoptosis by eliminating intracellular ROS.ConclusionGln metabolism is essential to maintain the balance of proliferation and apoptosis in oral epithelial cells, and inhibition of Gln metabolism may have a beneficial effect on OLP treatment.
Saliva‐based cell‐free DNA and cell‐free mitochondrial DNA in head and neck cancers have promising screening and early detection role
Authors: Sayal Lana , Hamadah Omar , Almasri Aroub , Idrees Majdy , Thomson Peter , Kujan Omar 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundCell‐free DNA (cfDNA) and cell‐free mitochondrial DNA (cf‐mtDNA) have been postulated as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for different human malignancies. Early detection of head and neck malignancies is fundamental for optimal patient management. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the utility of saliva‐based liquid biopsy as a noninvasive source of cfDNA and cf‐mtDNA for detecting head and neck cancer (HNSCC).MethodsOne hundred thirty‐three patients diagnosed with either oral leukoplakia (OLK) or HNSCC were compared with 137 healthy volunteers. An unstimulated whole saliva sample was collected from each participant. The absolute copy numbers of salivary cf‐mtDNA and cfDNA were quantified using Multiplex Quantitative PCR. Two diagnostic indices based on the investigated molecules were assessed for their ability to differentiate between different diagnostic categories.ResultsThe median scores of cfDNA and cf‐mtDNA were statistically significantly higher among HNSCC patients (p < 0.05), revealing area under the curve values of 0.758 and 0.826, respectively. The associated accuracy for this test in discriminating HNSCC from other diagnostic categories was 77.37% for the cfDNA‐based index and 80.5% for the cf‐mtDNA‐based index. The median score of cfDNA was statistically significantly higher for patients with severe epithelial dysplasia (OED) compared to those with epithelial keratosis with no OED and mild OED. However, there was no significant difference between controls and OLK individuals.ConclusioncfDNA and cf‐mtDNA showed potential for use as precision medicine tools to detect HNSCC. Further multi‐centre prospective studies are warranted to assess the prognostic utility of these molecules.
An aphid symbiont confers protection against a specialized RNA virus, another increases vulnerability to the same pathogen
Authors: Higashi Clesson H. V. , Nichols William L. , Chevignon Germain , Patel Vilas , Allison Suzanne E. , Kim Kyungsun Lee , Strand Michael R. , Oliver Kerry M. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractInsects often harbour heritable symbionts that provide defence against specialized natural enemies, yet little is known about symbiont protection when hosts face simultaneous threats. In pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum), the facultative endosymbiont Hamiltonella defensa confers protection against the parasitoid, Aphidius ervi, and Regiella insecticola protects against aphid‐specific fungal pathogens, including Pandora neoaphidis. Here, we investigated whether these two common aphid symbionts protect against a specialized virus A. pisum virus (APV), and whether their antifungal and antiparasitoid services are impacted by APV infection. We found that APV imposed large fitness costs on symbiont‐free aphids and these costs were elevated in aphids also housing H. defensa. In contrast, APV titres were significantly reduced and costs to APV infection were largely eliminated in aphids with R. insecticola. To our knowledge, R. insecticola is the first aphid symbiont shown to protect against a viral pathogen, and only the second arthropod symbiont reported to do so. In contrast, APV infection did not impact the protective services of either R. insecticola or H. defensa. To better understand APV biology, we produced five genomes and examined transmission routes. We found that moderate rates of vertical transmission, combined with horizontal transfer through food plants, were the major route of APV spread, although lateral transfer by parasitoids also occurred. Transmission was unaffected by facultative symbionts. In summary, the presence and species identity of facultative symbionts resulted in highly divergent outcomes for aphids infected with APV, while not impacting defensive services that target other enemies. These findings add to the diverse phenotypes conferred by aphid symbionts, and to the growing body of work highlighting extensive variation in symbiont‐mediated interactions.
From high masked to high realized genetic load in inbred Scandinavian wolves
Authors: Smeds Linnéa , Ellegren Hans 
Published: December 2022

AbstractWhen new mutations arise at functional sites they are more likely to impair than improve fitness. If not removed by purifying selection, such deleterious mutations will generate a genetic load that can have negative fitness effects in small populations and increase the risk of extinction. This is relevant for the highly inbred Scandinavian wolf (Canis lupus) population, founded by only three wolves in the 1980s and suffering from inbreeding depression. We used functional annotation and evolutionary conservation scores to study deleterious variation in a total of 209 genomes from both the Scandinavian and neighbouring wolf populations in northern Europe. The masked load (deleterious mutations in heterozygote state) was highest in Russia and Finland with deleterious alleles segregating at lower frequency than neutral variation. Genetic drift in the Scandinavian population led to the loss of ancestral alleles, fixation of deleterious variants and a significant increase in the per‐individual realized load (deleterious mutations in homozygote state; an increase by 45% in protein‐coding genes) over five generations of inbreeding. Arrival of immigrants gave a temporary genetic rescue effect with ancestral alleles re‐entering the population and thereby shifting deleterious alleles from homozygous into heterozygote genotypes. However, in the absence of permanent connectivity to Finnish and Russian populations, inbreeding has then again led to the exposure of deleterious mutations. These observations provide genome‐wide insight into the magnitude of genetic load and genetic rescue at the molecular level, and in relation to population history. They emphasize the importance of securing gene flow in the management of endangered populations.
Scratching beneath the surface: How organisational culture influences curricular reform
Authors: Shah Adarsh P. , Walker Kim A. , Hawick Lorraine , Walker Kenneth G. , Cleland Jennifer 
Published: December 2022

AbstractIntroductionCurricular reform is often proposed as the means to improve medical education and training. However, reform itself may not lead to noticeable change, possibly because the influence of organisational culture on change is given insufficient attention. We used a national reform of early‐years surgical training as a natural opportunity to examine the interplay between organisational culture and change in surgical education. Our specific research question was: in what ways did organisational culture influence the implementation of Improving Surgical Training (IST)?MethodsThis is a qualitative study underpinned by social constructivism. Interviews were conducted with core surgical trainees (n = 46) and their supervising consultants (n = 25) across Scotland in 2020–2021. Data coding and analysis were initially inductive. The themes indicated the importance of many cultural factors as barriers or enablers to IST implementation. We therefore carried out a deductive, secondary data analysis using Johnson's (1988) cultural web model to identify and examine the different elements of organisational culture and their impact on IST.ResultsThe cultural web enabled a detailed understanding of how organisational culture influenced IST implementation as per Johnson's six elements—Rituals and Routines (e.g. departmental rotas), Stories (e.g. historical training norms and culture), Symbols (e.g. feedback mechanisms, visibility and value placed on education), Power Structures (e.g. who has the power in local contexts), Organisational Structures (e.g. relationships and accountability) and the Control System (e.g. consultant job plans and service targets)—and how these interact. However, it did not shed light on the influence of exogenous events on change.ConclusionOur data reveal cultural reasons why this curricular reform met with varying degrees of success across different hospital sites, reinforcing that curricular reform is not simply about putting recommendations into practice. Many different aspects of context must be considered when planning and evaluating change in medical education and training.