bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional role of area 8A in the posterior dorsolateral frontal region of the human brain: A single case study
Authors: Tomaiuolo Francesco , Mollaioli Daniele , Foti Cristina , Vicario Carmelo Mario , Germanò Antonino , Petrides Michael
Published: October 2024

Area 8A has traditionally been considered to be the frontal eye field (FEF), i.e. the area for the motor production of eye movements. However, recent research has shown that the FEF lies posteriorly in premotor area 6. Research in macaque monkeys has demonstrated that, in contrast to premotor area 6, which is involved in the production of motor actions, area 8A is implicated in the cognitive allocation of attention to stimuli based on instruction cues. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the specific cognitive role of area 8A by examining a unique patient with a lesion restricted to area 8A, i.e. sparing the premotor cortex. This right‐handed male patient underwent neuropsychological assessment and testing on two conditional associative‐learning tasks: the motor hand conditional associative‐learning task (MCALT) assessing the selection of motor actions based on instruction cues and the visual conditional associative‐learning task (VCALT) assessing the selection of visual stimuli based on instruction cues. The patient's performance on the VCALT was significantly impaired compared to control subjects, but performance on the MCALT and on an Eye Movement Control Task was preserved. The present study provides evidence that area 8A is critical for the cognitive process regulating the allocation of attention to different stimuli in the environment, but not in the production of eye movements. These findings enhance understanding of the functional organization of the posterior dorsolateral frontal region in the human brain and suggest a specialized role of area 8A in high‐level cognitive processes.
Tracing of fire‐induced soil phosphorus transformations using phosphate oxygen isotope ratio
Authors: Ishida Takuya , Hirota Isao , Yokoyama Satoshi
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates that phosphate oxygen isotope (δ18OPO4) analysis effectively detects and monitors fire‐induced transformation in soil phosphorus (P). Fires increase bioavailable P, potentially limiting primary production in terrestrial ecosystems. However, understanding the effects of fire on soil P dynamics in the field remains challenging due to the interaction between fire spread and soil properties with high spatial heterogeneity. Soil burning experiments were conducted using a surface soil sample collected in central Japan. The soil was burned in an electric furnace from 50 to 550°C for 3 h, and P concentrations and δ18OPO4 values were determined. The results revealed that high temperatures (>350°C) depleted the soil of organic P (Po) and increased labile and stable inorganic P (Pi) concentrations while significantly decreasing δ18OPO4 values. By contrast, low temperatures (150°C) increased labile Pi and Po concentrations without isotopic shift, indicating that low‐intensity fires could increase bioavailable P while conserving soil organic matter. These findings indicate that δ18OPO4 analysis can provide insight into the relationship between P transformations and fire intensity and track subsequent changes in P dynamics over time. Our research highlights the potential of δ18OPO4 in predicting and managing postfire ecological and agricultural impacts.
Biochemical and kinetic properties of three indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenases of Aspergillus fumigatus: mechanism of increase in the apparent Km by ascorbate
Authors: Yuasa Hajime Julie
Published: October 2024

Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) is a monomeric heme enzyme that catalyzes the oxidative cleavage of tryptophan (L‐Trp) to form N‐formyl‐kynurenine. Similar to other heme proteins, IDO only binds to O2 when the heme iron is ferrous (FeII), thereby rendering the enzyme active. Thus, ascorbate (Asc, a reducing agent) and methylene blue (MB, an electron carrier) are commonly added to in vitro IDO assay systems. However, Asc and MB have been recently reported to significantly impact the measurement of the enzymatic parameters of vertebrate IDO. Aspergillus fumigatus is a filamentous fungus and the most common cause of invasive aspergillosis; it has three IDO genes (IDOα, IDOβ, and IDOγ). The FeII–O2 IDOs of A. fumigatus, particularly FeII–O2 IDOγ, have relatively long half‐lives in their autoxidation; however, the autoxidation was accelerated by Asc. Similar to vertebrate IDOs, Asc acted as a competitive (or mixed‐competitive) inhibitor of the IDOs of A. fumigatus. A positive correlation (in the order of IDOγ > IDOβ > IDOα) was observed between the inhibitory sensitivity of the IDOs to Asc and the facilitation of their autoxidation by Asc. The FeII–O2 IDO can repeat the dioxygenase reaction as long as it reacts with L‐Trp; however, substrate‐free FeII–O2 IDO is converted into inactive FeIII–IDO by autoxidation. Thus, L‐Trp (which keeps the IDO active) competes with Asc (which inactivates IDO by accelerating autoxidation). This is probably why Asc, which is structurally quite different from L‐Trp, appears to function as a competitive (or mixed‐competitive) inhibitor of IDOs.
Phase field numerical strategies for positive volumetric strain energy fractures
Authors: Yang Xiaofa , Zhang Jianye , Chang Dongdong , Huang Zekai , Dong Yingxuan , Zuo Hong
Published: October 2024

A reasonable crack driving force is the key to preventing compression cracks and eliminating unrealistic crack propagation in phase field fracture analysis. Thus, examining the roles of volumetric strain energy (VSE) and deviatoric strain energy (DSE) in influencing crack propagation is necessary. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the following four different approaches to energy decomposition‐driven crack propagation: the positive volumetric strain energy method (VSEM), deviatoric strain energy method (DSEM), volumetric‐deviatoric strain energy method (VDSEM), and no decomposition method (NM). All of the strain energy is involved in the development of the crack propagation. The following four examples are investigated: two benchmark single‐side notched examples, a complex crack containing a hole example, and a crack coalescence in an asymmetric double notch example. The VSEM's numerical findings align with literature and experimental observations, confirming that positive VSE rather than DSE promotes crack propagation.
A GWAS for grip strength in cohorts of children—Advantages of analysing young participants for this trait
Authors: Abbondanza Filippo , Wang Carol A. , Schmitz Judith , Marianski Krzysztof , Pennell Craig E. , Whitehouse Andrew J. O. , Paracchini Silvia
Published: October 2024

Grip strength (GS) is a proxy measure for muscular strength and a predictor for bone fracture risk among other diseases. Previous genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) have been conducted in large cohorts of adults focusing on scores collected for the dominant hand, therefore increasing the likelihood of confounding effects by environmental factors. Here, we perform the first GWAS meta‐analyses on maximal GS with the dominant (GSD) and non‐dominant (GSND) hand in two cohorts of children (ALSPAC, N = 5450; age range = 10.65–13.61; Raine Study, N = 1162, age range: 9.42–12.38 years). We identified a novel significant association for GSND (rs9546244, LINC02465, p = 3.43e−08) and replicated associations previously reported in adults including with a HOXB3 gene marker that shows an expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) effect. Despite a much smaller sample (~3%) compared with the UK Biobank we replicated correlation analyses previously reported in this much larger adult cohort, such as a negative correlation with coronary artery disease. Although the results from the polygenic risk score (PRS) analyses did not survive multiple testing correction, we observed nominally significant associations between GS and risk of overall fracture, as previously reported, as well ADHD which will require further investigations. Finally, we observed a higher SNP‐heritability (24%–41%) compared with previous studies (4%–24%) in adults. Overall, our results suggest that cohorts of children might be better suited for genetic studies of grip strength, possibly due to the shorter exposure to confounding environmental factors compared with adults.
Lobbying global venues: Sitting in or speaking out?
Authors: Antoine Elise
Published: October 2024

Understanding interest groups' participation in global policy processes is critical not least because of an increasing shift in policy‐making powers to global institutions. This paper contributes to existing research by examining advocacy efforts at the global level and proposing a novel argument linking the degree of policy complexity and the amount of groups' resources to lobbying strategies. Specifically, it argues that interest groups invest in both inside (“sitting in”) and outside (“speaking up”) lobbying strategies when the policy at stake is complex and they have more resources. This theory is tested using extensive and novel data spanning interest groups' lobbying efforts on global Internet privacy regulation.
Increasing rate of moth species establishment over 120 years shows no deceleration
Authors: Hordley Lisbeth A. , Dennis Emily B. , Fox Richard , Parsons Mark S. , Davis Tony M. , Bourn Nigel A. D.
Published: October 2024

Around the world, the number of species establishing outside of their native range has and continues to increase rapidly. Some of these non‐native species are invasive and can cause negative environmental, economic, and social impacts, including declines in native biodiversity. Species can become established either through natural dispersal or with intentional or inadvertent human assistance, but the relative importance of these two modes over time has been little studied.

We compiled data on 116 moth species that became established in Great Britain (GB) between 1900 and 2019. We classed each species as either an immigrant, which had colonised naturally, or an adventive, which had colonised through human assistance, and categorised species as feeding on either native or non‐native larval host plants.

We found that the rate of moth species establishment has accelerated steadily, at 21% increase per decade, showing no signs of saturation. Immigrant species showed a steady rate of establishment between 1900 and 1935, followed by a significant acceleration of 11% per decade thereafter, which most closely matches the rate of immigrants that feed on native host plants. Immigrants that feed on non‐native host plants show a slower increase across the whole time period compared to all species, of 13% per decade.

Adventive species show a similar rate of increase in establishment to all moth species, at a rate of 26% per decade. Adventives on non‐native host plants show a similar trend, but we find evidence for a post‐1980s increase in the rate of establishment for adventives that feed on native host plants.

Our results indicate that the global case for enhanced biosecurity, around both the monitoring of natural colonisations and for the horticultural trade, remains very strong as non‐native colonisations are showing no signs of saturation with ongoing environmental and economic change.
Thermomechanical behavior of alumina–magnesia castables and numerical modeling of the steel ladle thermal process
Authors: Dai Yajie , Wang Zexian , Chen Qilong , Meng Dehao , Wang Fei , Liao Ning , Yan Wen , Li Yawei
Published: October 2024

By experimental characterization and numerical modeling, the dependence of thermophysical properties on time and temperature as well as its influence on the thermomechanical behavior of alumina–magnesia castables has been studied in this work. The thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient, and Young's modulus are the most important parameters, which evolve with temperature and piecewise change with the thermal processes of drying, preheating, and service. It is mainly related to the sintering degree and amount of formed calcium aluminate and spinel phases. The sensitivity analysis of parallel simulations for multilayer steel ladle with different numbers of temperature‐dependent thermophysical parameters demonstrates that the thermal conductivity is the most influential parameter, as it dominates the temperature distribution and affects the succeeding thermal expansion as well as deformation. The increase of thermal expansion coefficient and decrease of Young's modulus with temperature counterbalance the deformation of linings under thermal process. Meanwhile, compared with the simulation using temperature‐independent parameters, the model with temperature‐dependent thermophysical parameters exhibits more severe damage in outer surface of both the working lining and the permanent lining. This gives new insight into the adoption of temperature‐dependent parameters for actual thermomechanical behavior evaluation of refractories.
Intensive care nurses' knowledge and practices regarding medical device‐related pressure injuries: A descriptive cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kurtgöz Aslı , Kızıltepe Selin Keskin , Keskin Hülya , Sönmez Münevver , Aşatır İsmail
Published: October 2024

This study aims to determine the levels of knowledge and practices of intensive care nurses regarding medical device‐related pressure injuries (MDRPIs). This descriptive cross‐sectional study was carried out between September 2023 and February 2024, involving 143 nurses working in intensive care units across three hospitals in Türkiye. The data were collected using the demographic form and the Medical Device‐related Pressure Injuries Knowledge and Practice Assessment Tool (MDPI‐ASSET). Of the nurses, 74.1% have encountered MDRPIs in their unit, 63.6% feel that their knowledge about MDRPIs is insufficient and 90.2% express a desire to receive training about MDRPIs. The participants' total mean MDPI‐ASSET score was 11.12 (out of 21). The nurses achieved the highest mean score on the Aetiology/risk factors sub‐scale and the lowest mean score on the Staging sub‐scale. The analysis revealed significant differences in the mean MDPI‐ASSET total scores among nurses based on the status of previous encounters with MDRPIs (t = 2.342; p = 0.021) and their feelings of responsibility for the development of MDRPIs (t = −2.746; p = 0.007). In this study, the knowledge and practices of intensive care nurses regarding medical device‐induced pressure injuries were found to be inadequate. Given the frequent occurrence of MDRPIs in intensive care units, it is necessary to support nurses with continuous organizational‐level training to improve the quality of care for critically ill patients.
Costs, efficiency, and patient‐reported outcomes associated with suture‐mediated percutaneous closure for atrial fibrillation ablation: Secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kiani Soroosh , Eggebeen Joel , Al‐Gibbawi Mounir , Smith Paige , Preiser Thomas , Kundu Suprateek , Zheng Ziduo , Bhatia Neal K. , Shah Anand D. , Westerman Stacy B. , De Lurgio David B. , Tompkins Christine M. , Patel Anshul M. , El‐Chami Mikhael F. , Merchant Faisal M. , Lloyd Michael S.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

To evaluate the cost and efficiency of suture‐mediated percutaneous closure (SMC) compared to manual compression (MC) after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation.

SMC has been demonstrated to be efficacious in reducing hemostasis and bedrest times after AF ablation. To date, randomized data comparing the direct and indirect cost between the two techniques have not been described.

Methods

We conducted a 1:1 randomized trial comparing SMC to MC following AF ablation. The primary endpoints have been previously published. However, secondary endpoints pertinent to indirect cost including complication rates, hospital utilization (i.e., delays in discharge, additional patient encounters, nursing utilization), pain, patient reported outcomes, as well as the direct costs of care associated with AF ablation were collected. We also performed secondary analysis of the primary endpoint to evaluate for a learning curve, and subgroups analysis comparing efficacy across different numbers of access sites and compared to those in the MC group with a figure‐of‐eight suture (Fo8), that could potentially have impacted the relative efficiency of the procedure.

Results

A total of 107 patients were randomized and included: 53 in the SMC group and 54 in MC. A learning curve was observed in the SMC group between the first and second half of the study group (p = 0.037), with no such difference in the MC group. After accounting for the number of access sites, time to hemostasis remained shorter in the SMC Group (p = 0.002). Compared to those in the Fo8 arm (n = 37), the time to hemostasis remained shorter in the SMC group (p = 0.001). Among those planned for same‐day discharge, there were more delays in the MC group (31.5% vs. 11.3%, p = 0.0144). Rates of major and minor complications were similar between SMC and MC groups at discharge (p = 0.243) and 30 days (p = 1.00), as were nursing utilization, self‐reported pain, and overall patient reported outcomes. The overall cost of care related to the procedure was similar between the MC and SMC groups ($56 533.65 [$45 699.47, $66 987.64] vs. $57 050.44 [$47 251.40, $66 426.34], p = 0.601).

Conclusion

SMC has been shown to decrease time to hemostasis and ambulation and facilitate earlier same‐day discharge after AF ablation without an increase in direct or indirect costs.
Skin cancer in Europe today and challenges for tomorrow
Authors: Brochez Lieve , Volkmer Beate , Hoorens Isabelle , Garbe Claus , Röcken Martin , Schüz Joachim , Whiteman David C. , Autier Philippe , Greinert Rüdiger , Boonen Brigitta
Published: October 2024

One in every three cancers diagnosed is a skin cancer. Europe has the global lead in the number of UV‐attributable cancer cases with the highest number of melanoma cases worldwide and the second highest number of keratinocyte cancers (KC). Further increases are expected in Europe for the coming decades. Projected increases are highest for KC with increases in incidence around 40% and increases in mortality around 50%, with KC mortality in males approximating melanoma mortality in females. The two main drivers for this skin cancer epidemic are ageing of the population but especially UV exposure. In conclusion, skin cancer represents a major challenge in the cancer field in Europe today and will continue to do so in the coming decades. This calls for a European skin cancer action plan intended to reduce avoidable UV exposure and to prepare the healthcare system to safeguard early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
Dividend mispricing: Evidence from all‐stock merger deals
Authors: Joseph Kerron , Kadapakkam Palani‐Rajan
Published: October 2024

Stock prices of targets in all‐stock merger deals should reflect acquirer share values, net of expected dividend payments before deal completion. This setting provides a unique opportunity to examine whether market prices of target stocks reflect the price reducing impact of impending acquirer dividends. We find evidence that target stock returns on the acquirer ex‐day are negatively related to the size of the dividend payments, indicating an incomplete adjustment on the last cum‐day. However, given the size of typical quarterly dividends, the magnitude of the estimated 30% incomplete adjustment to the dividend does not represent a viable arbitrage opportunity. Examining a longer window, we find that roughly 70% of the acquirer dividend is incorporated into the target stock price in the period two days after the dividend announcement to the ex‐day. Overall, our results are consistent with target stock prices adjusting slowly over time to reflect impending acquirer dividends.
Assessment of carbon emissions and reduction potential in China's copper smelting industry
Authors: Gao Rong , Shi Yao , Cao Chun , Li Huiquan , Xie Yuanbo , Shi Jingjing , Zhang Chenmu , Guan Xue
Published: October 2024

As the largest producer and consumer of copper, China is facing enormous challenges from carbon peaking and neutrality. This article adopts “bottom‐up” and “top‐down” methods to construct a more accurate model, to predict the CO2 emissions of China's copper smelting industry, and explores its potential for carbon reduction in the future from three scenarios as the baseline scenario (BAU), the general low‐carbon (NLC), and the enhanced low‐carbon (ELC). The results show that the CO2 emissions can achieve a peak in 2028 either in NLC or ELC scenarios, with a peak range of 14.9–16.88 million tonnes. Prior to reaching the peak, the contributions of energy adjustment, material substitution, and process selection to carbon reduction have significantly improved, and the contribution rates increased from 30.91%, 4.11%, and 1.46% to 42.7%, 32.07%, and 15.63% in ELC scenario. After the peak, the contribution of energy adjustment gradually slows down, while the material substitution continues to increase, and the contribution rates increased from 21.25% and 32.07% to 29.38% and 40.01% in NLC and ELC scenarios. In the future, concentrate oxygen‐enriched bottom‐blowing smelting and direct refining from waste copper anode furnaces show ideal potential for carbon reduction before 2025, increasing the proportion of recycled copper production, and adjusting energy structure will be more effective from 2025 to 2035. The conclusions of this study can provide a scientific basis for formulating policy recommendations for green and low‐carbon development of the copper industry in China and all over the world in the future.
Exploring the effect of Guarantees of Origin on the decarbonization of corporate electricity procurement: A case study of Germany and Norway
Authors: Paris Aaron , Hechelmann Ron‐Hendrik , Buchenau Nadja
Published: October 2024

Increasing social, economic, and political pressure causes many companies to pledge to decarbonize. A common measure involves the use of Energy Attribute Certificates (EAC), such as the European Guarantees of Origin (GO), to reduce emissions from electricity procurement (Scope 2). However, previous studies find no effect on additional renewable energy capacity. Focusing on Norway and Germany as dominant contributors to net GO exports and imports, this study examines the GO trade alongside corporate carbon accounting data to answer the research question: Does the decarbonization of corporate electricity procurement using Guarantees of Origin contribute to the expansion of renewable electricity generation capacity in Norway and Germany? The analysis of CDP and Association of Issuing Bodies data reveals Norway's consumption mix is more carbon intensive than Germany's because Norway exports GO and imports fossil electricity attributes. German companies report predominantly market‐based approach, mainly using green tariffs and GO for zero emission claims, while Norwegian companies favor the location‐based approach. The largest share of GO issued in Norway comes from hydropower plants aged 41 to 70 years. The results highlight the urgency to revise corporate carbon accounting standards. GO lack additionality due to double counting of renewable attributes. Potential solutions include additionality criteria, GO trade restrictions based on physical capacities, and age limits for eligible power plants. This study's novelty is linking CDP data with GO trade, to assess the integrity of corporate decarbonization strategies. It contributes valuable insights to ongoing discourse on the role of EAC.
A gender perspective on the circular economy: A literature review and research agenda
Authors: Palm Jenny , Lazoroska Daniela , Valencia Melanie , Bocken Nancy , Södergren Karolina
Published: October 2024

The circular economy (CE) challenges the traditional linear economic model by emphasizing the importance of resource efficiency, recycling, and regeneration in society. However, the role of gender in CE practices remains underexplored. This article presents a systematic literature review on how gender dynamics intersect with CE, highlighting the implications of gendered labor distribution, access to resources, and decision‐making processes. Women, often pivotal in household and community resource management, are underrepresented in policy and research. Gender perspectives are therefore crucial for addressing social, environmental, and justice dimensions within CE. The study employs the lens of care labor to reveal power imbalances and the exclusion of marginalized groups, advocating for inclusive policies to achieve socially sustainable and equitable CE futures. The review identifies the overrepresentation of women in undervalued, informal activities and the dominance of men in highly valued, technologically advanced CE roles. It also underscores the benefits of gender diversity in corporate governance, which enhances sustainability practices. The article calls for a deeper examination of gender's impact on CE, suggesting a research agenda to integrate gender perspectives, enhance CE effectiveness, and promote equity. The findings indicate that addressing gender inequalities in CE is essential to prevent replicating the shortcomings of the linear economy and to foster innovative, inclusive, and sustainable development.
Examining global biodiversity accounts: Implications of aggregating characterization factors from elementary flows in multi‐regional input–output analysis
Authors: Davin Killian , Koslowski Maximilian , Dorber Martin , Hertwich Edgar
Published: October 2024

Extending multi‐regional input–output (MRIO) models with spatially explicit life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) models allows practitioners to quantify biodiversity impacts at every step of global supply chains. Inconsistencies may be introduced, however, when high‐resolution characterization factors (CFs) are aggregated so as to match the low spatial granularity of MRIO models. These aggregation errors are greater when CFs are aggregated via proxies, such as ecoregion land shares, instead of based on spatially explicit elementary stressor flows. Here, we describe our approach to tailoring application‐specific CFs for use in MRIO studies. We apply a global agricultural production model, Spatial Production Allocation Model (MapSPAM), with the LCIA database, LC‐IMPACT, to create crop‐specific national CFs. We investigated i) if the differing aggregation approaches and the increased spatial explicitness of the constructed CFs deviate substantially from those in LC‐IMPACT, and ii) what the resulting consequences for national production and consumption‐based biodiversity footprints are when combining the tailor‐made CFs with the EXIOBASE MRIO model. For the year 2020, we observe an increase in global production‐based biodiversity impacts of 23.5% for land use when employing crop‐specific CFs.
Scenario analysis of supply‐ and demand‐side solutions for circular economy and climate change mitigation in the global building sector
Authors: Pauliuk Stefan , Carrer Fabio , Heeren Niko , Hertwich Edgar G.
Published: October 2024

Residential and non‐residential buildings are a major contributor to human well‐being. At the same time, buildings cause 30% of final energy use, 18% of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE), and about 65% of material accumulation globally. With electrification and higher energy efficiency of buildings, material‐related emissions gain relevance. The circular economy (CE) strategies, narrow, slow, and close, together with wooden buildings, can reduce material‐related emissions. We provide a comprehensive set of building stock transformation scenarios for 10 world regions until 2060, using the resource efficiency climate change model of the stock–flow–service nexus and including the full CE spectrum plus wood‐intensive buildings. The 2020–2050 global cumulative new construction ranges from 150 to 280 billion m2 for residential and 70‐120 billion m2 for non‐residential buildings. Ambitious CE reduces cumulative 2020–2050 primary material demand from 80 to 30 gigatons (Gt) for cement and from 35 to 15 Gt for steel. Lowering floor space demand by 1 m2 per capita leads to global savings of 800‐2500 megatons (Mt) of cement, 300‐1000 Mt of steel, and 3‐10 Gt CO2‐eq, depending on industry decarbonization and CE roll‐out. Each additional Mt of structural timber leads to savings of 0.4‐0.55 Mt of cement, 0.6‐0.85 Mt of steel, and 0.8‐1.8 Mt CO2‐eq of system‐wide GHGE. CE reduces 2020–2050 cumulative GHGE by up to 44%, where the highest contribution comes from the narrow CE strategies, that is, lower floorspace and lightweight buildings. Very low carbon emission trajectories are possible only when combining supply‐ and demand‐side strategies. This article met the requirements for a gold‐gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.
My job characteristics make me procrastinate or not: An emotional perspective
Authors: Wang Yangxin , Zhang Hong , Wang Zhen
Published: October 2024

Workplace procrastination is a prevalent phenomenon that significantly impacts employee productivity and organizational competitiveness. Drawing on cognitive–motivational–relational theory, this study adopts an emotional perspective to investigate how and when job characteristics (i.e. hindrance job demands, challenge job demands and job resources) impact employees' workplace procrastination in distinct ways. We suggest that both hindrance and challenge demands may evoke fear of tasks, eliciting an action tendency of escape and avoidance, thus indirectly leading to procrastination. Notably, challenge demands may exhibit a dual effect by simultaneously enhancing interest in tasks with an action tendency of exploration, thus negatively and indirectly influencing procrastination. Job resources may generate joy about tasks, fostering an action tendency of free activation, thereby indirectly reducing procrastination. We further investigate how psychological capital, which largely shapes employees' appraisal of job characteristics, may alter the above relationships. We conducted two studies to examine our hypotheses and delve into the potential reversed relationships between job characteristics and procrastination. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Prognostic Significance of Programmed Cell Death‐Ligand 1 Expression in Tobacco Associated Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Immunohistochemical Based Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: N. Naga Naveena , Mohanty Sweta , Das Surya Narayan , Rath Rachna , Narayanan Sri Priya
Published: October 2024

Background

Advancements in immuno‐oncology have dramatically transformed cancer treatment. Immunotherapy, targeting immune check point proteins, notably Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and its receptor Programmed Cell Death‐1 (PD‐1) which modulate the activity of immune response in Head and Neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), is an area of much research. The immunohistochemical expression of PD‐L1 in cancer cells has been proposed as a predictive biomarker for selecting candidates for immunotherapy. Thus, the present study was undertaken to study the expression of PD‐L1 in the primary tumour cells and evaluate its correlation with various clinicopathological parameters and prognosis in tobacco associated oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC).

Methods

Expression of PD‐L1 was investigated in 75 surgically resected cases of OSCC by immunohistochemistry and its association with different clinicopathological features and prognosis was analysed.

Results

PD‐L1 protein was detected in 68% (51 cases) of cases. Tumour stage (p = 0.04), lymph node (LN) metastasis (p < 0.01) and moderate to marked tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (p < 0.05), significantly correlated with the PD‐L1 expression in the primary tumour. PD‐L1 expression did not show a significant association with overall survival (OS) rate, however, patients with positive PD‐L1 expression showed a poorer survival rate. Patients exhibiting nodal positivity had the worst prognosis (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

These data demonstrated a significant association of ≥ 5% PD‐L1 expression in the primary tumour and the presence of LN metastasis, moderate to marked TILs and advancing tumour stage, thus, making it a plausible immunotherapeutic target molecule in OSCC patients.
Smartphone application‐delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia with telephone support for insomnia disorder compared to a waitlist control: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Jansson‐Fröjmark Markus , Sunnhed Rikard
Published: October 2024

Although there have been promising findings for smartphone application (app)‐delivered cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I), previous trials have not screened participants rigorously for insomnia disorder and used therapist support. Based on the above, we aimed to examine the effects of smartphone app‐delivered CBT‐I with telephone support against a waitlist (WL) in a sample with insomnia disorder. A total of 64 participants with insomnia disorder were randomised to smartphone app‐delivered CBT‐I (n = 32) or a WL (n = 32). Smartphone app‐delivered CBT‐I consisted of six weekly smartphone app modules with 15 min of telephone support per week. At pre‐ and post‐treatment, and the 3‐month follow‐up, we assessed insomnia symptoms and associated correlates and consequences. At post‐treatment, we also assessed measures related to adherence (therapist support, exercise/module completion), self‐rated perception of treatment content, activity, and adverse events. CBT‐I significantly outperformed the WL with large effects on the primary outcome (d = 2.26) and was significantly different on most of the secondary outcomes with medium to large effects. CBT‐I also resulted in a significantly larger proportion of treatment remitters (CBT‐I: 64.5–77.4%, WL: 6.5–6.9%) and responders (CBT‐I: 77.4–90.3%, WL: 19.4–24.1%) at post‐treatment and follow‐up, compared to the WL. Treatment was associated with high satisfaction, high adherence, low attrition, and few treatment‐impeding adverse events. Based on the medium to large effects of smartphone app‐delivered CBT‐I with telephone support, this trial highlights the potential of delivering CBT‐I exclusively through an app with therapist telephone support for high efficacy, satisfaction, and adherence.
Comparative Population Genomic Diversity and Differentiation in Trapdoor Spiders and Relatives (Araneae, Mygalomorphae)
Authors: Monjaraz‐Ruedas Rodrigo , Starrett James , Newton Lacie , Bond Jason E. , Hedin Marshal
Published: October 2024

Although patterns of population genomic variation are well‐studied in animals, there remains room for studies that focus on non‐model taxa with unique biologies. Here we characterise and attempt to explain such patterns in mygalomorph spiders, which are generally sedentary, often occur as spatially clustered demes and show remarkable longevity. Genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data were collected for 500 individuals across a phylogenetically representative sample of taxa. We inferred genetic populations within focal taxa using a phylogenetically informed clustering approach, and characterised patterns of diversity and differentiation within‐ and among these genetic populations, respectively. Using phylogenetic comparative methods we asked whether geographical range sizes and ecomorphological variables (behavioural niche and body size) significantly explain patterns of diversity and differentiation. Specifically, we predicted higher genetic diversity in genetic populations with larger geographical ranges, and in small‐bodied taxa. We also predicted greater genetic differentiation in small‐bodied taxa, and in burrowing taxa. We recovered several significant predictors of genetic diversity, but not genetic differentiation. However, we found generally high differentiation across genetic populations for all focal taxa, and a consistent signal for isolation‐by‐distance irrespective of behavioural niche or body size. We hypothesise that high population genetic structuring, likely reflecting combined dispersal limitation and microhabitat specificity, is a shared trait for all mygalomorphs. Few studies have found ubiquitous genetic structuring for an entire ancient and species‐rich animal clade.
Complete chloroplast genomes of Desmidorchis penicillata (Deflers) plowes and Desmidorchis retrospiciens Ehrenb.: comparative and phylogenetic analyses among subtribe Stapeliinae (Ceropegieae, Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae)
Authors: Alharbi Samah A. , Albokhari Enas J.
Published: October 2024

The succulent shrubs Desmidorchis penicillata and D. retrospiciens, part of the taxonomically challenging genus Desmidorchis, are well‐known for their ecological resilience and medicinal significance. This study sequences the first complete chloroplast genomes of these species, shedding light on their genomic characteristics and evolutionary relationships. The circular genomes of D. penicillata (161 776 bp) and D. retrospiciens (162 277 bp) display a quadripartite structure typical of Angiosperms. Gene content, order, and GC content are consistent, featuring 114 unique genes, including 80 protein‐coding, 30 transfer RNAs, and four ribosomal RNAs genes. Codon usage analysis underscores A/U‐rich preferences, while RNA editing sites, predominantly in ndhB and ndhD genes, suggest post‐transcriptional modifications. Analysis of long repeated sequences reveals a predominance of forward and palindromic repeats. Simple sequence repeats (SSRs), particularly A/T motifs, are abundant, with high presence of mononucleotide, offering potential molecular markers. Comparative analysis with their relatives in subtribe Stapeliinae identifies mutational hotspots such as ycf1, ndhF, trnG(GCC)‐trnfM(CGA) and ndhG‐ndhI that could be potential DNA barcoding markers. The inverted repeat (IR) boundaries analysis revealed an expansion of IR on the small single copy region, leading to the formation of a pseudogene. Overall, substitution rate analysis indicated purifying selection, with a few genes (rpl22, clpP and rps11) showing signatures of positive selection. Additionally, the phylogenetic analysis positioned Desmidorchis within the Stapeliinae clade and strongly supported the sister relationship between D. penicillata and D. retrospiciens. This study provides comprehensive molecular data for future research in Desmidorchis.
Efficacy in myopia control—The impact of rebound
Authors: Bullimore Mark A. , Brennan Noel A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

When myopia control treatment is discontinued, progression will increase, but does it revert to expected values based on the age and race of the child or does it accelerate further? The latter scenario is considered a rebound.

Methods

A PubMed search was conducted with the words ‘rebound’ and ‘myopia control’, identifying further papers from reviews. Inclusion was limited to prospective studies with ≥6 months of treatment, ≥3 months of data following cessation and with axial length data, which allowed calculation of rebound. Nineteen studies were identified, comprising 24 treatment groups. In 10 studies, untreated control children were followed both throughout the treatment and cessation periods, allowing for a concurrent comparison group. In three studies, a control group was followed for 1 or 2 years and thereafter received the treatment under evaluation. Later, treatment ceased in the originally treated children. Finally, six studies were cross‐over designs. For these latter two study designs, initial axial elongation and myopia progression in the control group were extrapolated to the cessation period, accounting for annual slowing. Values from durations of <1 year were annualised.

Results

The mean annualised rebound was +0.05 ± 0.10 mm and −0.09 ± 0.24 D for axial length and myopia progression, respectively, and these were correlated (r2 = 0.59, p < 0.001). Rebound was associated with 1‐year treatment efficacy (r2 = 0.43, p < 0.001). The mean annualised rebound with optical corrections was −0.01 ± 0.03 mm. Five of the six highest rebound values (≥0.14 mm) were from red light therapy and atropine studies. Rebound ranged from +0.03 to +0.14 mm for overnight orthokeratology.

Conclusions

Consistent with previous statements, no evidence for rebound was found for myopia control spectacles and soft contact lenses. Future research should explore the influence of age and magnitude of treatment efficacy on rebound.
A scandalous presence in the courtroom: Indigenous immigrant interpreters and the politics of language ideologies in US courts
Authors: García María Luz
Published: October 2024

This article analyzes how the experiences and observations of Indigenous people from Latin America who work as legal interpreters reveal the ways that the position of court interpreter is racialized. The meaning of the norms of the “invisibility” and “neutrality” of the interpreter and the role of the interpreter as erasing barriers become points of contestation in the context of interpreting Indigenous languages of Latin America, revealing the ways that dominant norms and practices governing interpreting privilege a white speaker. Organizations of Indigenous interpreters articulate these experiences as a language rights issue of a transnational movement and point to the way that institutional claims to neutrality are symptomatic of a larger historical pattern of racism.
Identification of clerodane diterpene modifying cytochrome P450 (CYP728D26) in Salvia divinorum ‐ en route to psychotropic salvinorin A biosynthesis
Authors: Ngo Iris , Kumar Rahul , Li Liang , Kim Seon‐Won , Kwon Moonhyuk , Ro Dae‐Kyun
Published: October 2024

Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogenic plant native to the Oaxaca in Mexico. The active ingredient for psychotropic effects in this plant is salvinorin A, a potent and highly selective κ‐opioid receptor agonist. Salvinorin A is distinct from other well‐known opioids, such as morphine and codeine, in that it is a non‐nitrogenous diterpenoid with no affinity for μ‐opioid receptor, the prime receptor of alkaloidal opioids. A terpene opioid that selectively targets a new opioid receptor (κ‐opioid receptor) can be instrumental in developing alternative analgesics. Elucidation of the salvinorin A biosynthetic pathway can help bio‐manufacture diverse semi‐synthetic derivatives of salvinorin A but, to date, only two enzymes in the Salvinorin A pathway have been identified. Here, we identify CYP728D26 that catalyzes a C18 oxygenation on crotonolide G, which bears a clerodane backbone. Biochemical identity of CYP728D26 was validated by in vivo reconstitution in yeast, 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR analyses of the purified product, and kinetic analysis of CYP728D26 with a Km value of 13.9 μM. Beyond the single oxygenation on C18, collision‐induced dissociation analysis suggested two additional oxygenations are catalyzed by CYP728D26 to form crotonoldie G acid, although this carboxylic acid form is a minor product. Its close homologue CYP728D25 exhibited a C1‐hydroxylation on the clerodane backbone in a reconstituted yeast system. However, CYP728D25 showed no activity in in vitro assays. This result implies that catalytic activities observed from overexpression systems should be interpreted cautiously. This work identified a new CYP catalyst and advanced our knowledge of salvinorin A biosynthesis.
The Actualities of Public Relations Practice at an Eastern Ontario University: A Quasi-ethnographic Study
Authors: El-Astal Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Although various studies have used ethnographic techniques to examine different concepts, contexts, and practices in public relations (Sriramesh, 2000; Daymon & Hodges, 2009), none of these studies ethnographically examined the culture within which public relations is practiced, and discourse is produced in a college or university context. This quasi-ethnographic study aims to: (1) produce an account of the core aspects of the culture within which public relations is practiced at a university in Eastern Ontario and (2) identify what PR model best represents the PR practice there. To collect data for this study, I conducted e-mail interviews with five public relations participants at the university under investigation to collect data for this study. The data collected was about the groups’ routines, practices, and behaviors that shape their experience and facilitate producing relevant discourse. I also collected some genres and documents. The findings showed that (1) collaboration characterized the culture within which PR performs its duties and activities and produces relevant discourse, and (2) the two-way asymmetrical model best represents the PR practice in the university examined. Besides filling the gap identified here, the study contributes to theory and practice in the field. It benefits those who teach public relations writing and the institution itself as it evaluates how excellent the PR practice in that institution is.
¿Monstruos con rostro humano? Reflexiones acerca de la violencia sexual y la cultura de la violación
Authors:   Universitat de Barcelona, Madera Roldán Anaïs
Published: October 2024

Miles de titulares sobre violencia sexual, violaciones y pederastia nos rodean a diario. En muchos de ellos, se habla de los agresores como “monstruos”. Existe la convicción de que solamente seres alejados de lo humano son capaces de realizar este tipo de actos. Bajo esta premisa, dichos monstruos constituyen una aberrante excepción, irrumpiendo en la normalidad cotidiana. Pero, ¿realmente es así? ¿Son los violadores, acosadores y pederastas figuras “patológicas” y “anómalas”? ¿Hasta qué punto podemos hablar de “hechos aislados” perpetrados por hombres “enfermos” en lugar de un problema estructural resultante de una sociedad cisheteropatriarcal?
Effect of plasma nitriding on microstructure and wear behavior of electrodeposited FeCoNiCr coating
Authors: Dong Meiling , He Mingxin , Wang Chaohui , Cui Xiufang , Jin Guo , Liu Pengwei
Published: October 2024

An (FeCoNiCr)N high-entropy alloy coating with a single FCC phase was fabricated on 304 stainless steel by electrodeposition and plasma nitriding. The results indicated that the FeCoNiCr coating exhibited typical granular morphologies and a nearly equiatomic ratio of four elemental compositions. After nitriding, the coating primarily consisted of a high-entropy solid solution phase and a CrN phase, with the microstructure of the (FeCoNiCr)N coating being significantly refined due to the effect of crystallization. The microhardness of the (FeCoNiCr)N coating was 781.30 ± 20.3 HV0.5, considerably higher than that of the FeCoNiCr coating, which was 496.48 ± 21.82 HV0.5. Additionally, the (FeCoNiCr)N coating demonstrated a low friction coefficient and a wear rate of 0.59 and 6.8 × 10−8 mm3/N mm, respectively. The fine microstructure and high resistance to plastic deformation, attributed to solid solution strengthening and dispersion strengthening, were the primary factors contributing to the excellent wear performance of the (FeCoNiCr)N coating.
High-resolution observations of shallow-water acoustic propagation with distributed acoustic sensing
Authors: Shen Zhichao , Wu Wenbo , Lin Ying-Tsong
Published: October 2024

Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), converting fiber-optic cables into dense acoustic sensors, is a promising technology that offers a cost-effective and scalable solution for long-term, high-resolution studies in ocean acoustics. In this paper, the telecommunication cable of Martha's Vineyard Coastal Observatory (MVCO) is used to explore the feasibility of cable localization and shallow-water sound propagation with a mobile acoustic source. The MVCO DAS array records coherent, high-quality acoustic signals in the frequency band of 105–160 Hz, and a two-step inversion method is used to improve the location accuracy of DAS channels, reducing the location uncertainty to ∼2 m. The DAS array with refined channel positions enables the high-resolution observation of acoustic modal interference. Numerical simulations that reproduce the observed interference pattern suggest a compressional speed of 1750 m/s in the sediment, which is consistent with previous in situ geoacoustic measurements. These findings demonstrate the long-term potential of DAS for high-resolution ocean acoustic studies.