bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Virtual Cardiologist: Three Deep Learning Pipelines in an Inexpensive Portable Device and Web/Mobile Application for Rapid Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Clinical Decision-Making
Authors: Mehrotra-Varma Shiv
Published: May 2024

Background

Heart disease is the foremost cause of death worldwide, and specialty care such as cardiologists and expensive Doppler echocardiograms are scarce in rural areas. There is significant variability among physicians in interpreting heart sounds and 2D echocardiograms from more basic, widely available tools like stethoscopes and point-of-care ultrasound devices (POCUS), leading to treatment delays.

Methods

26 Deep-learning models were tested to optimally [a] stratify severity of aortic stenosis from POCUS 2D echocardiogram images [b] estimate cardiac ejection fraction (heart failure) from POCUS 2D echocardiogram videos and [c] identify pathologic heart murmurs using digital stethoscope recordings. The top performing model for each was integrated into a portable, inexpensive Raspberry-Pi device (Virtual Cardiologist), mobile application, and website. Each model was tested on two independent datasets to ensure accuracy. The heart murmur algorithm was also tested on 323 patients by recording their heart sounds via a custom and digital stethoscope in an outpatient setting for clinical validation.

Results

The three top-performing models outperformed cardiologists and previous AI methods. The aortic stenosis model (AUC=0.89) utilized EfficientNet, a CNN with compound scaling built on a pre-trained computational backbone. The ejection fraction model (EchoSwin) incorporated Microsoft Swin transformers modified for video input (MAE=5.6). The heart murmur model employed an LSTM Autoencoder algorithm (AUC=0.92).

Conclusion

The Virtual Cardiologist can serve as an accurate tool for patient assessment and triage for referral to tertiary care in remote areas with limited specialty care. This is the first tool of its kind for detection of multiple cardiovascular morbidities.
Perfect splitting in rectangular-waveguide junctions for analog computing
Authors: Rogers William , Johnson-Richards Christian , Yakovlev Alex , Pacheco-Peña Victor
Published: May 2024

It has recently been shown how computing operations such as high-speed switching, routing, and solving partial differential equations can be performed by exploiting perfect splitting of electromagnetic waves in networks of waveguides from microwaves to the optical regime. Here we propose a technique to achieve perfect splitting of electromagnetic waves using junctions of rectangular waveguides. The structure consists of air-filled rectangular waveguides interconnected at a junction. They are designed to have their cutoff frequency above the cutoff frequency of a further waveguides used as inputs. The proposed structure is studied theoretically with use of transmission-line models, and it is demonstrated that perfect splitting can occur at frequencies below the cutoff frequency of the interconnected waveguides (evanescent coupling). Numerical results are used to validate the designs, and it is demonstrated that the theoretical model fits the numerical data well. As examples of computing operations, it is shown how the proposed structure can be used to compare the amplitude of two incident signals (comparison operation) and also for routing of information to different output ports by exploiting the linear superposition of scattered waves excited at the junction of rectangular waveguides, opening new opportunities and possibilities for future exploration and exploitation of electromagnetic waves for high-speed computing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comment on “Tests and calibrations of nuclear track detectors (CR39) for operation in high neutron flux”
Authors: Paul Michael , Köster Ulli
Published: May 2024

Tests and calibrations described in E. E. Kading [] and the extraction of quantitative results from the experiment reported therein are considered unreliable.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The importance of definitions in crystallography
Authors: Anosova Olga , Kurlin Vitaliy , Senechal Marjorie
Published: May 2024

This paper was motivated by the articles `Same or different – that is the question' in CrystEngComm (July 2020) and `Change to the definition of a crystal' in the IUCr Newsletter (June 2021). Experimental approaches to crystal comparisons require rigorously defined classifications in crystallography and beyond. Since crystal structures are determined in a rigid form, their strongest equivalence in practice is rigid motion, which is a composition of translations and rotations in 3D space. Conventional representations based on reduced cells and standardizations theoretically distinguish all periodic crystals. However, all cell-based representations are inherently discontinuous under almost any atomic displacement that can arbitrarily scale up a reduced cell. Hence, comparison of millions of known structures in materials databases requires continuous distance metrics.
CSR perceptions, meaningful work and innovative behaviors: the moderated mediation effects of co-worker instrumental and emotional support
Authors: Hur Won-Moo , Moon Taewon , Won Jie Young , Rhee Seung-Yoon
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study examines the role of meaningful work in mediating the relationship between employees’ perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovative behavior. This study further examines how co-worker support, both instrumental and emotional, moderates the meaningful work–innovative behavior relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing survey data from 355 employees in South Korea with a two-wave longitudinal design, path modeling with the M-plus PROCESS macro was performed to analyze the mediation and second-stage moderated mediation effects.

Findings

The results showed that the relationship between employee CSR perceptions and innovative behavior was mediated by meaningful work. Co-worker instrumental support strengthened the meaningful work–innovative behavior relationship, whereas co-worker emotional support had no significant moderating effect. The three-way interaction analysis indicated that the meaningful work–innovative behavior relationship was weakest when co-worker instrumental support was low. Additionally, instrumental support by co-workers moderated the indirect effect of CSR perceptions on innovative behavior via meaningful work.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature on CSR perceptions and meaningful work. Our focus on meaningful work as a key psychological mechanism provides insights into how and why employee CSR perceptions promote desirable outcomes including innovative behavior, an underexplored yet important outcome. Furthermore, by identifying co-worker instrumental support as a significant boundary condition, this study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the social context that promotes innovative behavior.
Predicting graduate students’ entrepreneurial intentions through innovative teaching in entrepreneurship education: SEM-ANN approach
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur , Fayolle Alain , Dana Leo Paul , Rahman Md. Nafizur
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Entrepreneurship education (EE) through innovative teaching techniques (ITEE) and entrepreneurial intention (EI) are two essential components of entrepreneurship development. Using the assumptions of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), we took three constructs: attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SUBNs), and perceived behavioral control (PBC), and from the assumption of Human Capital (HC) theory, we constructed another variable, ITEE. Thus, the fundamental objective of this study is to find out the essential predictor of EI between entrepreneurial antecedents (ATT, SUBNs, PBC) and ITEE through an artificial neural network (ANN).

Design/methodology/approach

Using the snowball sampling technique, a highly structured questionnaire was sent to respondents. Finally, a sample size of 397 business graduate students was chosen.

Findings

The findings revealed that two dimensions of entrepreneurial antecedents (attitude and subjective norm) positively impacted EI. Furthermore, ITEE partially mediated the relationship between two dimensions of entrepreneurial antecedents (attitude and subjective norm) and EI. Moreover, through ANN, we found that attitude (ATT) was a crucial predictor of EI among business graduate students in Bangladesh.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, only business graduate students were included as respondents; thus, further research should include students from other departments or disciplines to generalize the findings.

Practical implications

This study covers numerous actors in terms of practical contributions, including students, academics, the government, and the state. This article should draw the attention of Bangladesh government policymakers regarding the significance of ITEE for developing entrepreneurship. The research framework of this study proposed that ITEE should implement antecedents of entrepreneurship into business education, boosting the ability of students to make judgments, which will also enhance EI in the future.

Originality/value

Integrating the TPB theory with human capital theory represents a significant scholarly advancement in business education for graduate students in Southeast Asia, namely Bangladesh. Furthermore, we developed a novel ITEE scale by synthesizing information from many literary sources, providing valuable insights for future researchers.
Assessment of reliability measures and cost optimization of a solar seed sowing machine
Authors: Bhandari Ashok Singh , Kumar Akshay , Ram Mangey
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In this research work, the general form of reliability measures, which include availability, mean time to failure (MTTF), and sensitivity analysis, are investigated with their graphical representation, which would help designers and engineers improve the reliability of the system. Along with reliability assessment, a mathematical model is developed and solved to achieve the minimum cost of the system as well as maximum reliability.

Design/methodology/approach

In the proposed work, a general model of a solar seed sowing machine is considered for reliability evaluation using the Markov model process. The proposed system is a series-parallel arrangement of components where three components, namely the solar panel, batteries and direct current (DC) motor, are connected in series while all the operators are connected in parallel. The implemented Markov model approach assesses several parameters of reliability, which opens the scope for improvement in reliability and other measures like mean time to failure (MTTF) and sensitivity of the proposed system. So that the machine can deliver the desired output on the field. Also, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is applied to optimize the cost of the system with the desired level of reliability.

Findings

Implementation of PSO provides the optimal cost for the proposed system with a predetermined level of reliability, which shows the relationship between reliability and cost of the system. Also, the Markov process approach provides the availability function, reliability function, reliability at different time values, MTTF and sensitivity of the proposed system.

Originality/value

This work evaluates the crucial characteristics of reliability for the proposed solar seed sowing machine using the Markov model which is a stochastic model. The assessment of reliability measures such as MTTF, availability and sensitivity plays a vital role in measuring and improving the performance of the machine in the actual environment. Examining the data obtained in this research is of great importance for the manufactures and system designers. Also, the powerful optimization technique PSO is implemented to solve a non-linear mixed-integer programming problem that provides the optimal cost for the system with desired reliability.
Unveiling dilemmas and countermeasures in the green transformation of China’s real estate industry through the lens of knowledge management
Authors: Ren Tianzhou , Li Jing , Yu Xiaofen , Marcone Maria Rosaria , Maizza Amadeo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Effective knowledge management has played a crucial role in propelling the green transformation of organisations and industries. Nevertheless, its underutilisation in the real estate sector has impeded the progress of green transformation. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to offer a theoretical and practical analysis of the green transformation of the real estate industry through the lens of knowledge management and to provide a valuable reference to facilitate the industry’s green transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study entailed applying induction and deduction method, using China’s real estate industry as a typical case, and collecting and analysing the public data, corporate reports and literature of China’s real estate industry. On this basis, the authors conducted an in-depth analysis of the mechanisms through which the green transformation has empowered the sustainable development of China’s real estate industry, as well as the critical role of knowledge management.

Findings

The study has revealed that the primary challenges encountered by China’s real estate industry during the green transformation have stemmed from significant disparities in the knowledge base among different industry entities, the complexities related to knowledge integration and the “difficulty” of applying green knowledge across the entire life cycle. To address these issues, the authors recommend several strategic actions, including creating a dedicated green knowledge platform for the real estate industry, establishing a knowledge-sharing mechanism, enhancing knowledge acquisition on both the supply and demand sides and intensifying the focus on the application of green knowledge within the real estate industry.

Research limitations/implications

This research holds considerable theoretical and practical significance concerning the comprehension and promotion of knowledge management’s role in the green transformation of China’s real estate industry. These insights can be applied to significantly enhance the theoretical framework of knowledge management, and the research outcomes provide substantial support for propelling the green transformation in China’s real estate industry and contributing to the sustainable development of the overall economy in China.

Originality/value

From a knowledge management perspective, this study introduces a series of solutions and recommendations, presenting new research ideas and pathways for advancing the green transformation of the real estate industry. In addition to guiding the industry’s sustainable development, it also significantly contributes to enhancing the theoretical framework of knowledge management.
Enhancing cognitive motivation: an evaluation model for emergency preparedness exercises
Authors: Andreassen Natalia , Elvegård Rune , Villanger Rune , Johnsen Bjørn Helge
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Evaluating emergency preparedness exercises is crucial for assessing enhanced knowledge, facilitating learning and implementing knowledge in organizations. The cognitive process of motivation for action is a precursor for action, coping behavior and individual learning. This study aims to focus on how guided evaluation of emergency preparedness exercises can enhance cognitive motivation and influence the mental readiness of exercise participants.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper with a model approach design. The main conceptual contribution is suggesting a model for guided evaluation in emergency preparedness exercises. We present a theoretical background for understanding the increase in motivation based on social cognitive learning theory. In particular, this study discusses how different evaluation steps contribute to enhanced motivation and learning for exercise participants.

Findings

Increased motivation and enhanced personal performance standards could be achieved through using processes that lead to self-efficacy in guided exercise evaluation. Specifically, sources of enhanced motivation, such as repeated coping experiences, self-regulation processes, mastery motivation and performance motivation, would proliferate the readiness of individual crisis managers and teams.

Practical implications

This article suggests an evaluation model for use in emergency preparedness exercises. This approach combines bottom-up and top-down processes for debriefing, reflection and feedback, both individually and in teams. This approach aims to enhance exercise participants’ motivation and utilize exercise evaluation for organizational learning.

Originality/value

The conceptual discussion leads to developing implications for evaluation practice, suggesting how to structure evaluation and why. This study is novel for its explanation of how to use evaluation in the learning process.
Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: Silene uniflora‡
Authors: Davy Anthony J. , Baker Alan J. M. , Willis Arthur J.
Published: May 2024

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Silene uniflora Roth (S. maritima With., S. vulgaris Garcke subsp. maritima (With.) Á. & D. Löve), Sea Campion, that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Silene uniflora is a mat‐like perennial herb that in Britain and Ireland is primarily distributed in coastal habitats, notably on sea cliffs and shingle banks but also at the drift line and rarely on sand; it also has populations on mountains and heavy metal mine waste tips. All of these substrates tend to be oligotrophic, loose‐textured and freely draining, and often with adverse ion concentrations. It is found in suitable habitats around much of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts of Europe.

Its breeding system is gynodioecious and gynomonoecious (some individuals bearing female flowers only, some bearing hermaphrodite flowers only and others with both types of flower). The proportions of the three types of individual vary considerably between populations, but hermaphrodite flowers tend to predominate. The showy, white, nectar‐producing flowers are produced continuously over the entire summer and are pollinated mainly by long‐tongued Hymenoptera and night‐flying moths but autogamous selfing is also frequent.

Silene uniflora and its close relative S. vulgaris were the subject of a classic, decadal study involving genetical and transplant experiments that was seminal in the development of ‘experimental taxonomy’. More recently, attention has focused on the rapid evolution of Zn‐tolerant populations of S. uniflora growing on mine spoil and contaminated river gravels. It has also become a model organism for the study of sexually transmitted, castrating fungal diseases in plants (notably of the genus Microbotryum).
Risk factors associated with mortality among patients on maintenance hemodialysis: The Thailand Renal Replacement Therapy registry
Authors: Premprasong Artchawin , Nata Naowanit , Tangwonglert Theerasak , Supasyndh Ouppatham , Satirapoj Bancha
Published: May 2024

Introduction

End‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) has been increasing in prevalence across the world, including Thailand, and patients with ESKD on hemodialysis have a high mortality risk.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed across 855 hemodialysis centers in the Thailand Renal Replacement Therapy registry. The database and mortality data were analyzed.

Results

A total of 58 952 patients were included. The survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 93.5%, 69.7%, and 41.2%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, factors such as aging, permanent catheter or arteriovenous graft, twice‐weekly hemodialysis, low levels of urea reduction ratio, normalized protein catabolic rate, hemoglobin, transferrin saturation, serum albumin, LDL‐cholesterol, intact‐parathyroid hormone, uric acid, sodium, phosphate, and bicarbonate were significantly related to death.

Conclusion

Mortality is high in ESKD patients on hemodialysis. Age, type of vascular access, twice‐weekly hemodialysis, inadequate dialysis, low protein intake, anemia, abnormal electrolytes, and bone mineral disorders are associated with all‐cause mortality.
The nutrition‐related adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment for patients with non‐small cell lung cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Graham Kate L. , Carty Danika , Poulter Shay P. , Blackman Chantal , Dunstan Olivia G. , Milton Taryn L. , Ferguson Cassie , Smith Kaitlyn , Van Dijk Emilly , Jongebloed Darcy , Loeliger Jenelle , Baguley Brenton J.
Published: May 2024

Aims

Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy used for lung cancer has significantly changed response and survival rates, however, the impact on patients' nutritional status remains largely unexplored. This review aims to identify common adverse events that increase nutrition risk induced in non‐small cell lung cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy and assess impact on nutritional status.

Methods

PubMed, Medline and CINAHL were systematically searched in September 2023 for randomised controlled trials comparing immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer to a control group. Treatment‐related adverse events that increased nutrition impact symptoms identified in the patient‐generated subjective global assessment and clinical guidelines were extracted and qualitatively analysed. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.

Results

Eleven eligible randomised controlled trial studies were identified and analysed. The data demonstrated immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment was associated with a lower percentage of reported nutrition impact symptoms, for example, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, compared to chemotherapy treatment. Conversely, immune checkpoint inhibitor treated patients recorded a greater percentage of immune‐related adverse events that alter metabolism or nutrient absorption.

Conclusion

Non‐small cell lung cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors still experience nutrition impact symptoms but less frequently than patients treated with chemotherapy. This combined with unique nutrition‐related consequences from colitis and thyroid disorders induced by immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy indicates patients should be screened, assessed and interventions implemented to improve nutrition.
Influence of different presentation forms of chlorhexidine on contaminated root canals during agitation
Authors: Lopes Ana B. S. , R. Lima Augusto , D. Bronzato Juliana , Herrera Daniel R. , Francisco Priscila A. , Carvalho Maria C. C. , Abuna Gabriel , Sinhoreti Mario , Gomes Brenda P. F. A.
Published: May 2024

This in vitro study aimed to verify the influence of chlorhexidine (CHX) (gel and solution) in association with different activation protocols on disinfection of root canals contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis. In total, 120 lower premolar roots were selected, contaminated and divided into 12 groups according to irrigation technique and substance. Samples were collected before and after each irrigation technique and analysed for colony‐forming units (CFU). Three dentin discs were obtained for quantification of viable intratubular cells by using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). CFU results showed that sonic and ultrasonic were more effective than conventional irrigation. Ultrasonic activation was more effective than sonic for CHX gel (p < 0.05). CLSM showed that either activation was better than conventional in all groups and root canal thirds (p < 0.05). It was concluded that ultrasonic/sonic activation was more effective than conventional techniques and CHX enhanced intratubular dentin decontamination across all irrigation methods.
On the formation of charred millet aggregates in archaeological assemblages
Authors: Teira‐Brión Andrés , Kaal Joeri , Charles Michael
Published: May 2024

Charred aggregates are one of the most common forms in which millets are preserved on archaeological sites. Despite the lack of consensus on their origin, few studies have attempted to determine how aggregates are formed. Knowing how aggregates are produced allows us to understand the diversity of processes operating in the formation of charred archaeobotanical assemblages. As a contribution to filling this gap, we investigated the charring conditions of archaeological millet assemblages by comparing them to experimentally charred millets grains exposed to different temperatures, and reducing and oxidizing atmospheres, using pyrolysis‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (Py‐GC‐MS) and thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation‐GC‐MS (THM‐GC‐MS). The results show that the formation of aggregates in the millet species studied is due to the transformation of organic material into char and the emission of volatiles as a consequence of the high thermal impact that is produced in some areas of grain clusters. Substances derived from the charring act as a ‘glue’ that holds a grain cluster together, in which some grains are exposed to a temperature range allowing preservation of recognisable grain morphologies.
Static and dynamic guided bone regeneration using a shape‐memory polyethylene terephthalate membrane: An experimental study in rabbit mandible
Authors: Imoto Kazuhiro , Hoshi Karen , Odashima Kenji , Nogami Shinnosuke , Unuma Hidero , Yamauchi Kensuke
Published: May 2024

Background

Periosteal expansion (PEO) results in the formation of new bone in the space created between existing bone by expanding the periosteum. PEO has already been performed on rabbit parietal bone and effective new bone formation has been demonstrated. In this study, the utility of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membrane as an activator was evaluated in the more complex morphology of the mandible.

Methods

A PET membrane coated with hydroxyapatite (HA)/gelatine was placed in the rabbit mandibular bone at lower margin of mandibular molar region underneath periosteum, and screw‐fixed. In the experimental group, the membrane was bent and screw‐fixed along the lateral surface of the bone, with removal of the outer screw after 7 days followed by activation of the membrane. The experimental group was divided into two subgroups: with and without a waiting period for activation. Three animals were euthanized at 3 weeks and another three at 5 weeks postoperatively. Bone formation was assessed using micro‐CT as well as histomorphometric and histological methods.

Results

No PET membrane‐related complications were observed. The area of newly formed bone and the percentage of new bone in the space created by the stretched periosteum did not significantly differ between the control and experimental groups. However, in the experimental group a greater volume was present after 5 weeks than after 3 weeks. Histologically, bone formation occurred close to the site of cortical bone perforation, with many sinusoidal vessels extending through the perforations in the new bone into the overlying fibrous tissue. Inflammatory cells were not seen in the bone.
Allylamine coating on zirconia dental implant surface promotes osteogenic differentiation in vitro and accelerates osseointegration in vivo
Authors: Salamanca Eisner , Wu Yi‐Fan , Aung Lwin Moe , Chiu Bor Rong , Chen Mei Kuang , Chang Wei‐Jen , Sun Ying Sui
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The glow discharge plasma (GDP) procedure has proven efficacy in grafting allylamine onto zirconia dental implant surfaces to enhance osseointegration. This study explored the enhancement of zirconia dental implant properties using GDP at different energy settings (25, 50, 75, 100, and 200 W) both in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and Methods

In vitro analyses included scanning electron microscopy, wettability assessment, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and more. In vivo experiments involved implanting zirconia dental implants into rabbit femurs and later evaluation through impact stability test, micro‐CT, and histomorphometric measurements.

Results

The results demonstrated that 25 and 50 W GDP allylamine grafting positively impacted MG‐63 cell proliferation and increased alkaline phosphatase activity. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of OCN, OPG, and COL‐I. Both 25 and 50 W GDP allylamine grafting significantly improved zirconia's surface properties (p < .05, p < .01, p < .001). However, only 25 W allylamine grafting with optimal energy settings promoted in vivo osseointegration and new bone formation while preventing bone level loss around the dental implant (p < .05, p < .01, p < .001).

Conclusions

This study presents a promising method for enhancing Zr dental implant surface's bioactivity.
The Complementarity and Substitution Effects of CSR‐Focused Governance Mechanisms on CSR Decoupling
Authors: Abweny Mohammad , Afrifa Godfred Adjapong , Iqbal Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Research Question/Issue

The study examines whether CSR‐focused governance mechanisms (CSR committees, standalone CSR reports, and CSR contracting) operate as complements or substitutes for each other in mitigating CSR decoupling.

Research Findings/Insights

The study finds that CSR‐focused governance mechanisms diminish CSR decoupling and enhance CSR credibility in UK firms. In addition, the simultaneous presence of CSR committees and standalone CSR reports has a complementary effect in mitigating CSR decoupling. Conversely, the combinations of CSR committees and CSR contracting as well as standalone CSR reports and CSR contracting exhibit a substitute relationship. These impacts remain consistent when categorizing CSR decoupling into underreporting and overreporting. During the financial crisis of 2008–2009, the complementary relationship between CSR committees and CSR reports remained consistent, although the substitution between CSR committees and CSR contracting, and CSR reports and CSR contracting, is only observed after the crisis.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The study innovatively contributes to the agency theory literature by adopting a bundle corporate governance approach while focusing on specific CSR governance mechanisms to address agency issues. It empirically shows that complementary combinations of CSR‐focused governance mechanisms signify a marginal benefit in reducing CSR decoupling, leading to a reduction in agency costs.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

The study offers several implications. First, it helps firms create ideal combinations of different CSR‐focused governance mechanisms that provide superior marginal benefits. Second, firms' stakeholders, especially the investors, could identify the usefulness of adopting CSR‐focused governance mechanisms in CSR reporting. Finally, it could also attract regulators' attention toward the weaker aspects of the existing corporate governance code regarding CSR.
Depression and type 2 diabetes: A causal relationship and mechanistic pathway
Authors: Khawagi Wael Y. , Al‐kuraishy Hayder M. , Hussein Nawar R. , Al‐Gareeb Ali I. , Atef Esraa , Elhussieny Omnya , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Jabir Majid S. , Alshehri Abdullah A. , Saad Hebatallah M. , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber
Published: May 2024

Depression is a mood disorder that may increase risk for the development of insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), and vice versa. However, the mechanistic pathway linking depression and T2D is not fully elucidated. The aim of this narrative review, therefore, was to discuss the possible link between depression and T2D. The coexistence of T2D and depression is twice as great compared to the occurrence of either condition independently. Hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia promote the incidence of depression by enhancing inflammation and reducing brain serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine [5HT]). Dysregulation of insulin signalling in T2D impairs brain 5HT signalling, leading to the development of depression. Furthermore, depression is associated with the development of hyperglycaemia and poor glycaemic control. Psychological stress and depression promote the development of T2D. In conclusion, T2D could be a potential risk factor for the development of depression through the induction of inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress that affect brain neurotransmission. In addition, chronic stress in depression may induce the development of T2D through dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and increase circulating cortisol levels, which triggers IR and T2D.
Extending the formal state: the case of Pakistan's Frontier Crimes Regulation
Authors: Callen Michael , Gulzar Saad , Rezaee Arman , Shapiro Jacob N.
Published: May 2024

Why do modern states allow parts of their territory to be governed by non‐state actors? We study this question using the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) in Pakistan, a British Colonial law abrogated only in 2018, which left governance to pre‐colonial tribal councils in large parts of modern day Pakistan. In areas where the FCR did not apply, the British and then Pakistani state built modern political and bureaucratic institutions. Using primary legal documents, we build a dataset of when and where the FCR applied between 1901 and 2012. The territorial extent of the formal state is both cleanly demarcated by this law and varies substantially over time, permitting an empirical examination of the determinants of state control. The data reveal that the Green Revolution's potential to transform agriculture played a major role in extending the formal state. The law was repealed first from areas where agricultural productivity benefited the most from the Green Revolution. This is consistent with a model in which technological changes that shift the returns to control influence where states choose to govern.
Thermal transfer rate is slower in bigger fish: How does body size affect response time of small, implantable temperature recording tags?
Authors: O'Donnell Matthew J. , Regish Amy M. , McCormick Stephen D. , Letcher Benjamin H.
Published: May 2024

The recent miniaturisation of implantable temperature recording tags has made measuring the water temperatures fish experience in the wild possible, but there may be a body size‐dependent delay in implanted tag response time to changes in external temperature. To determine whether fish body size affects the response rate of implanted temperature tags, we implanted 20 Salvelinus fontinalis (127–228 mm fork length (FL), 15.1–120.4 g) with temperature recording tags and subjected them to rapid temperature changes (±8°C in less than 2 seconds) in the laboratory. We found that thermal transfer rates, and the lag in temperature tag response rate, was positively correlated with fish size, but the direction of temperature change (colder or warmer) had no significant effect. In fish exposed to a slower rate of temperature change (2°C h−1) implanted tags did not show a response lag. Understanding the limitations of this important technology is crucial to determining the utility of the data it produces and its ability to accurately measure fish thermal experience in the wild.
Identification of youth at clinical high‐risk for psychosis: A community‐based study from India
Authors: Tikka Sai Krishna , Malathesh Barikar C. , Spoorthy Mamidipalli Sai , Kusneniwar Govindrao N. , Agarwal Neeraj , d'Avossa Giovanni , Katshu Mohammad Zia Ul Haq
Published: May 2024

Aim

A two‐stage process, wherein self‐report screening precedes the structured interview, is suggested for identifying individuals at clinical high‐risk for psychosis (CHR‐P) in community samples. Aim of this study was to screen a community youth sample from India for CHR‐P using the two‐stage method. Specific objectives were to assess concordant validity of the self‐report measure and predictive validity of the two‐stage method.

Methods

Based on probability sampling, 2025 youth aged 15–24 years were recruited from one rural and one urban area of Telangana, a Telugu‐speaking state in India. Telugu version of the PRIME Screen‐Revised (PS‐R) and structured interview for psychosis‐risk syndromes (SIPS) were used. CHR‐P positive and negative cohorts were followed‐up for transition to psychosis at 3‐monthly intervals.

Results

One hundred ten individuals screened positive on PS‐R. SIPS conducted on 67 out of 110 individuals confirmed 62 (92.54%) to be CHR‐P positive. PS‐R showed 98.41% sensitivity and 90.74% specificity. Among CHR‐P positive, three participants transitioned to psychosis in 15 months. The hazard ratio for psychosis transition was 11.4.

Conclusions

Screening accuracy of PS‐R in the community youth sample in Telangana is optimum. The hazard ratio for psychosis transition in the community identified CHR‐P indicates good predictive validity for the two‐stage method.
ArcKR expression modifies synaptic plasticity following epileptic activity: Differential effects with in vitro and in vivo seizure‐induction protocols
Authors: Bhandare Amol , Haley Maisy , Torrico Anderson Vanessa , Domingos Luana B. , Lopes Marcia , Corrêa Sonia A. L. , Wall Mark J.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Pathological forms of neural activity, such as epileptic seizures, modify the expression pattern of multiple proteins, leading to persistent changes in brain function. One such protein is activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein (Arc), which is critically involved in protein‐synthesis–dependent synaptic plasticity underlying learning and memory. In the present study, we have investigated how the expression of ArcKR, a form of Arc in which the ubiquitination sites have been mutated, resulting in slowed Arc degradation, modifies group I metabotropic glutamate receptor–mediated long‐term depression (G1‐mGluR‐LTD) following seizures.

Methods

We used a knock‐in mice line that express ArcKR and two hyperexcitation models: an in vitro model, where hippocampal slices were exposed to zero Mg2+, 6 mM K+; and an in vivo model, where kainic acid was injected unilaterally into the hippocampus. In both models, field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) were recorded from the CA1 region of hippocampal slices in response to Schaffer collateral stimulation and G1‐mGluR‐LTD was induced chemically with the group 1 mGluR agonist DHPG.

Results

In the in vitro model, ArcKR expression enhanced the effects of seizure activity and increased the magnitude of G1‐mGluR LTD, an effect that could be blocked with the mGluR5 antagonist MTEP. In the in vivo model, fEPSPs were significantly smaller in slices from ArcKR mice and were less contaminated by population spikes. In this model, the amount of G1‐mGluR‐LTD was significantly less in epileptic slices from ArcKR mice as compared to wildtype (WT) mice.

Significance

We have shown that expression of ArcKR, a form of Arc in which degradation is reduced, significantly modulates the magnitude of G1‐mGluR‐LTD following epileptic seizures. However, the effect of ArcKR on LTD depends on the epileptic model used, with enhancement of LTD in an in vitro model and a reduction in the kainate mouse model.
Unearthing the soil‐borne microbiome of land plants
Authors: Ochoa‐Hueso Raúl , Eldridge David J. , Berdugo Miguel , Trivedi Pankaj , Sokoya Blessing , Cano‐Díaz Concha , Abades Sebastian , Alfaro Fernando , Bamigboye Adebola R. , Bastida Felipe , Blanco‐Pastor José L. , de los Rios Asunción , Durán Jorge , Geisen Stefan , Grebenc Tine , Illán Javier G. , Liu Yu‐Rong , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Mamet Steven , Molina‐Montenegro Marco A. , Moreno José L. , Nahberger Tina Unuk , Peñaloza‐Bojacá Gabriel F. , Plaza César , Rey Ana , Rodríguez Alexandra , Siebe Christina , Singh Brajesh K. , Teixido Alberto L. , Torres‐Díaz Cristian , Wang Ling , Wang Jianyong , Wang Juntao , Zaady Eli , Zhou Xiaobing , Zhou Xin‐Quan , Tedersoo Leho , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel
Published: May 2024

Plant–soil biodiversity interactions are fundamental for the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Yet, the existence of a set of globally distributed topsoil microbial and small invertebrate organisms consistently associated with land plants (i.e., their consistent soil‐borne microbiome), together with the environmental preferences and functional capabilities of these organisms, remains unknown. We conducted a standardized field survey under 150 species of land plants, including 58 species of bryophytes and 92 of vascular plants, across 124 locations from all continents. We found that, despite the immense biodiversity of soil organisms, the land plants evaluated only shared a small fraction (less than 1%) of all microbial and invertebrate taxa that were present across contrasting climatic and soil conditions and vegetation types. These consistent taxa were dominated by generalist decomposers and phagotrophs and their presence was positively correlated with the abundance of functional genes linked to mineralization. Finally, we showed that crossing environmental thresholds in aridity (aridity index of 0.65, i.e., the transition from mesic to dry ecosystems), soil pH (5.5; i.e., the transition from acidic to strongly acidic soils), and carbon (less than 2%, the lower limit of fertile soils) can result in drastic disruptions in the associations between land plants and soil organisms, with potential implications for the delivery of soil ecosystem processes under ongoing global environmental change.
Shifting the paradigm: The role of introduced plants in the resiliency of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change
Authors: Kharouba Heather M.
Published: May 2024

Current ecological communities are in a constant state of flux from climate change and from species introductions. Recent discussion has focused on the positive roles introduced species can play in ecological communities and on the importance of conserving resilient ecosystems, but not how these two ideas intersect. There has been insufficient work to define the attributes needed to support ecosystem resilience to climate change in modern communities. Here, I argue that non‐invasive, introduced plant species could play an important role in supporting the resilience of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change. Using examples from multiple taxonomic groups and ecosystems, I discuss how introduced plants can contribute to ecosystem resilience via their roles in plant and insect communities, as well as their associated ecosystem functions. I highlight the current and potential contributions of introduced plants and where there are critical knowledge gaps. Determining when and how introduced plants are contributing to the resilience of ecosystems to climate change will contribute to effective conservation strategies.
Rising plant demand strengthens nitrogen limitation in tidal marsh
Authors: Langley J. A. , Wang L. , Yedman B. , Megonigal J. P.
Published: May 2024

Nitrogen (N) is a limiting nutrient for primary productivity in most terrestrial ecosystems, but whether N limitation is strengthening or weakening remains controversial because both N sources and sinks are increasing in magnitude globally. Temperate marshes are exposed to greater amounts of external N inputs than most terrestrial ecosystems and more than in preindustrial times owing to their position downstream of major sources of human‐derived N runoff along river mouths and estuaries. Simultaneously, ecosystem N demand may also be increasing owing to other global changes such as rising atmospheric [CO2]. Here, we used interannual variability in external drivers and variables related to exogenous supply of N, along with detailed assessments of plant growth and porewater biogeochemistry, to assess the severity of N‐limitation, and to determine its causes, in a 14‐year N‐addition × elevated CO2 experiment. We found substantial interannual variability in porewater [N], plant growth, and experimental N effects on plant growth, but the magnitude of N pools through time varied independently of the strength of N limitation. Sea level, and secondarily salinity, related closely to interannual variability in growth of the dominant plant functional groups which drove patterns in N limitation and in porewater [N]. Experimental exposure of plants to elevated CO2 and years with high flooding strengthened N limitation for the sedge. Abiotic variables controlled plant growth, which determined the strength of N limitation for each plant species and for ecosystem productivity as a whole. We conclude that in this ecosystem, which has an open N cycle and where N inputs are likely greater than in preindustrial times, plant N demand has increased more than supply.
Climate warming accelerates carbon release from foliar litter—A global synthesis
Authors: Chen Zihao , Ni Xiangyin , Patoine Guillaume , Peng Changhui , Yue Kai , Yuan Ji , Wu Qiuxia , Eisenhauer Nico , Guerra Carlos A. , Bol Roland , Wu Fuzhong , Wang G. Geoff
Published: May 2024

With over one‐third of terrestrial net primary productivity transferring to the litter layer annually, the carbon release from litter serves as a crucial valve in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. However, few quantitative global projections of litter carbon release rate in response to climate change exist. Here, we combined a global foliar litter carbon release dataset (8973 samples) to generate spatially explicitly estimates of the response of their residence time (τ) to climate change. Results show a global mean litter carbon release rate () of 0.69 year−1 (ranging from 0.09–5.6 year−1). Under future climate scenarios, global mean τ is projected to decrease by a mean of 2.7% (SSP 1–2.6) and 5.9% (SSP 5–8.5) during 2071–2100 period. Locally, the alleviation of temperature and moisture restrictions corresponded to obvious decreases in τ in cold and arid regions, respectively. In contract, τ in tropical humid broadleaf forests increased by 4.6% under SSP 5–8.5. Our findings highlight the vegetation type as a powerful proxy for explaining global patterns in foliar litter carbon release rates and the role of climate conditions in predicting responses of carbon release to climate change. Our observation‐based estimates could refine carbon cycle parameterization, improving projections of carbon cycle–climate feedbacks.
VC ownership post‐IPO: When, why, and how do VCs exit?
Authors: Basnet Anup , Pukthuanthong Kuntara , Turtle Harry , Walker Thomas
Published: May 2024

We examine the evolution of lead venture capital firm (VC) ownership after their portfolio companies (PCs) are publicly listed. We find that, on average, lead VCs retain their shares for three years post‐IPO. Higher liquidity pressure and better stock market performance lead to faster VC exits, while higher VC reputation, better VC monitoring, and higher quality PCs lead to slower exits. VCs mostly use sales in the open market, share distributions, and mergers and acquisitions to divest their shares. Higher liquidity pressure incentivizes VCs to use majority share distributions, while better stock market performance increases their preference for continuous sales.