bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of spin-wave polarity and velocity using a ferrimagnetic domain wall
Authors: Faridi Ehsan , Vignale Giovanni , Kim Se Kwon
Published: October 2024

We present a theoretical study of the scattering of spin waves by a domain wall (DW) in a ferrimagnetic (FiM) spin chain in which two sublattices carry spins of unequal magnitudes. We find that a narrow but atomically smooth FiM DW exhibits a different behavior in comparison with similarly smooth ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic DWs due to the inequivalence of the two sublattices. Specifically, for sufficiently weak anisotropy, the smaller spin at the center of the DW is found to become precisely normal to the easy axis, selecting an arbitrary direction in the xy plane and thereby breaking the U(1) spin-rotational symmetry spontaneously. This particular form of a FiM DW does not occur in antiferromagnetic systems and is shown to lead to a strong dependence of spin-wave scattering pattern on the state of polarization of the spin wave, which can be either right-handed or left-handed, suggesting the utilization of such a narrow DW as a spin-wave filter. Moreover, we find that in the case of an atomically sharp DW, where all the spins point either up or down due to strong easy-axis anisotropy and therefore the polarization of the spin wave is conserved upon transmission, the wave vector of the spin-wave changes after passing through the DW leading to a change in the group velocity of the spin wave. This change of the wave vector indicates the acceleration or deceleration of the spin waves and thus a sharp FiM DW could serve as a spin-wave accelerator or decelerator in spintronics devices, offering a functionality absent in a ferromagnetic and an antiferromagnetic counterpart. Our results indicate that FiM spin textures can interact with spin waves distinctly from ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic counterparts, suggesting that they may offer spin-wave functionalities that are absent in more conventional magnets.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Does work overload of odd-job platform workers lead to turnover intention? An empirical study on platform workers
Authors: Liu Shan , Xu Guang , Zhong Jie , Xu Yuling
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Against the background of the digital economy, odd-job platforms rely on artificial intelligence algorithms to efficiently allocate tasks and monitor platform workers’ performance, putting these workers under enormous pressure. This paper explores the relationship between work overload and turnover intention of platform workers on odd-job platforms and the factors that lead to platform workers’ turnover.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the job demands–resources model (JD-R), we construct a theoretical model to explain the relationship between work overload and turnover intention of platform workers. We test job burnout as a mediator variable and perceived algorithmic fairness and job autonomy as moderating variables. We conducted a study at food delivery platforms and ride-hailing platforms in China.

Findings

The empirical results show that: (1) work overload increases the turnover intention of platform workers by increasing job burnout and (2) perceived algorithmic fairness and job autonomy moderate the positive relationship between work overload and job burnout.

Originality/value

We provide a theoretical basis to explain the influence of work overload on turnover intention of odd-job platform workers and provide practical recommendations for management of platform workers.
Does it pay to be angry in intercultural negotiations: depends on the power and personality orientation of the counterpart
Authors: Bertram Steffen , Sharma Revti Raman
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Though anger as an emotion is an important determinant of negotiation outcomes, the extant literature presents mixed and contradictory findings. We propose that the effect of anger in intercultural negotiations depends on the power and personality orientation of the counterpart negotiators.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data from 429 working professionals in the USA, we conducted two experimental studies in which they responded to an angry Chinese counterpart.

Findings

We find that the intercultural negotiation outcomes depend on the three-way interaction between anger, power and personality orientation. Our findings suggest that US action-oriented negotiators conceded more in a high-power condition than in a low-power condition while responding to an angry Chinese counterpart, while US state-oriented negotiators showed no difference in concession size regardless of their power and counterpart’s anger.

Originality/value

Our work is unique in establishing three-way interactive effects of power, personality and emotions in intercultural negotiation outcome relationships. Our findings are specific to an intercultural negotiation context consisting of negotiators from low-status, low-power-distance countries (e.g. the USA) with their counterparts from high-status, high-power-distance countries (e.g. China).
Is remittance cost a driver of trade misinvoicing? A case study of Vietnam
Authors: Tran Quang Phu
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of remittance costs on trade-based money laundering (TBML) and provide insights into the relationship between remittance costs and TBML, particularly focusing on import over-invoicing and low-income trade partners.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing an extended gravity model for TBML, bilateral data from Vietnam spanning 2011 to 2019 are analyzed to examine the correlation between remittance costs and TBML.

Findings

The study reveals a positive association between remittance costs and TBML, highlighting the significance of reducing remittance costs to curb TBML.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by the availability of data and focuses solely on Vietnam, implying potential variations in other contexts.

Practical implications

Policymakers should consider reducing remittance costs as a strategy to combat TBML effectively.

Social implications

Lowering remittance costs could contribute to the prevention of illicit financial activities, fostering economic stability and social development.

Originality/value

This study provides novel insights into the relationship between remittance costs and TBML, offering valuable implications for policy formulation and anti-money laundering (ML) efforts.
CEO AI orientation, human resources and green innovation: an attention-based view
Authors: Wang Xu , Wu Weiwei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology permeating various sectors, corporate management has increasingly directed their focus toward AI-driven innovation. Particularly, in response to escalating environmental standards, chief executive officers (CEOs) of manufacturing companies are turning to AI as a strategic tool to address challenges in green innovation. This paper aims to reveal the complex relationship between CEO AI orientation and green innovation through the attention-based view. Furthermore, it seeks to explore strategies to enhance corporate green innovation leveraging CEO AI orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses computer-assisted text analysis to extract data from annual reports of listed Chinese manufacturing companies and assesses them using negative binomial regression.

Findings

The empirical findings indicate the inverted U-shaped relationship between CEO orientation and green innovation. Initial green innovation performance increases with CEO AI orientation, reaching a peak before declining. Moreover, as CEO AI orientation increases, companies with higher levels of human resource slack are likely to reach the peak of green innovation earlier.

Originality/value

Firstly, this paper introduces CEO AI orientation as a novel factor within the framework of the attention-based view for understanding green innovation. Secondly, the study investigates both the benefit effect and the cost effect (resource constraints) of CEO AI orientation on green innovation, examining the inverted U-shaped relationship between CEO orientation and green innovation. Thirdly, this paper explores the moderating effect of human resource slack on the relationship between CEO AI orientation and green innovation, setting the boundaries of CEO AI orientation’s impact on green innovation.
Bounded subadditivity in management decisions
Authors: Belle Nicola , Cantarelli Paola , Belardinelli Paolo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

As subjects irrationally perceive probability changes as more impactful when shifting an event from impossible to possible or from possible to certain, compared to increasing the likelihood of an already possible event, this study examines how workers process success probabilities and whether their resource allocation decisions are distorted by bounded subadditivity.

Design/methodology/approach

We conduct an online randomized experiment with 3,980 employees.

Findings

We detect a certainty effect (upper subadditivity), whereby professionals are willing to devote a disproportionate number of hours to a project when their contribution transforms the success of the initiative from possible to certain rather than increasing the likelihood of success by the same percentage points. We find no evidence of the possibility effect (lower subadditivity), whereby workers would devote a disproportionate effort when their contribution turns a sure failure into a possible success rather than simply increasing the likelihood of success by the same percentage points. We observe a rational tendency to try harder for a greater increase in the probability of success, but only far from the limits of the probability spectrum and not close to the limits.

Originality/value

Attempts to understand bounded subadditivity in management decisions have been incomplete. We disentangle two real-world variables and offer a more refined operationalization.
Fabrication of a flexible inner prosthetic socket via the FGM technique
Authors: Al-Araji Inas Zaki Hadi , Satgunam Meenaloshini A/P , Abd Manap Abreeza Noorlina Bt , Resan Kadhim K. , Muhammad Ahmed K.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to fabricate a flexible inner socket with enhanced stiffness and hardness distribution by using the functional gradient method (FGM). The FGM technique can improve the comfort and flexibility of amputees through the use of a socket that is built via the direct method.

Design/methodology/approach

Six flexible inner socket samples were fabricated with varying weight fractions of rice husk ash-to-silicone rubber. The tensile strength and hardness of each sample were assessed. Then, numerical analyses were conducted using SOLIDWORKS software to evaluate the pressure distribution on the inner and outer layers of the flexible socket.

Findings

The hardness and stiffness of the fabricated flexible inner socket gradually increased with the weight ratio of rice husk ash-to-silicone rubber, so when it was in contact with the skin, it approximated the stiffness and hardness of the skin to ensure comfort, and when reaching a higher value in the socket contact layer, it prevented penetration through the flexible inner socket. In addition, the pressure distribution at the external layer of the flexible inner socket has improved.

Research limitations/implications

A budget of US$500 limited the research to create a flexible inner socket that keeps the socket from penetrating the skin.

Practical implications

The FGM technique created a flexible inner socket that balances hardness and stiffness to ensure comfort and prevent wounds for its users, lower limb amputees. The commercial value resides in the accessibility of a secure and comfortable flexible inner socket for amputees worldwide, enabling them to overcome the issue of excessive stiffness typically associated with sockets made using the direct method.

Originality/value

This study introduces the use of FGM to fabricate a flexible inner prosthetic socket with enhanced stiffness and hardness distribution. The approach of using varying weight fractions of rice husk ash-to-silicone rubber to improve the comfort and flexibility of prosthetic sockets is a novel contribution to the field. Given the high stiffness of flexible internal sockets and their ability to maintain flexibility in the part in contact with the skin, such sockets manufactured using this method prevent pain and skin ulcers that previously occurred when sockets are manufactured via the direct method.
Local regulations for the use of artificial intelligence in the management of public records – a literature review
Authors: Svärd Proscovia , Guerrero Esteban , Balogun Tolulope , Saurombe Nampombe , Jacobs Lorette , Henttonen Pekka
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigated the regulatory landscape surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of e-government development. The purpose of this article is to identify record-keeping challenges, opportunities and weaknesses that emerge from AI loose regulation. The research focuses on Sweden, Finland and South Africa, examining the interplay between existing guidelines, recommendations and legal structures at various levels.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted comprehensive systematic and scoping literature reviews, encompassing academic papers, reports and legal documents, along with an analysis of non-academic sources relevant to the study. This methodological approach helped to obtain a deep understanding of the evolving AI regulatory frameworks.

Findings

There is currently limited research that focuses on the impact AI deployment has on the management of critical records in government administrations. Also, the findings reveal that AI regulatory environment varies from country to country. The European Union stands as a noteworthy example of a comprehensive framework for AI governance. In contrast, South Africa, while at its infancy stage, demonstrates potential initiatives and policies at different levels. There is emphasis on the need to focus on co-operation, skills development and uniform regulatory frameworks.

Practical implications

This research holds significant practical implications for policymakers, government bodies and stakeholders involved in AI governance. It emphasizes how crucial it is to incorporate AI alongside a solid records management system. The study advocates for strategic investments in education and skills development to enable individuals to navigate the complexities of AI governance.

Originality/value

This research adds to the existing body of knowledge by providing an examination of AI legislation in e-government in the context of public records management. The analysis helps to review literature and other research materials across different geographical areas. The study explores the distinctive strategies used by Sweden, Finland and South Africa. The recommendations offer policymakers and stakeholders suggestions on how to foster effective AI governance and innovation in the public sector but at the same time manage public records effectively.
Space‐for‐time substitution misleads projections of plant community and stand‐structure development after disturbance in a slow‐growing environment
Authors: Kreyling Juergen
Published: October 2024

Understanding and projecting ecosystem dynamics is a key goal for both basic science and applied ecosystem management. In ecosystems dominated by long‐lived organisms such as forests, space‐for‐time substitutions (SFT) inferring temporal development from observations of study objects differing in age across space at a given time, also called chronosequences, are widely used as an alternative approach for long‐term monitoring, in particular to understand forest dynamics after stand‐replacing disturbances. Uncertainties and challenges of SFT substitution, however, arise from violations of the underlying assumption that everything but time since disturbance is identical among the spatial sampling sites. Direct comparisons between true time series and SFT substitutions are still surprisingly rare.

I resampled a 20‐year‐old SFT substitution study to check if this method accurately projects vegetation changes after major disturbances in primary subalpine conifer forests, and to evaluate its conclusions for forest management. Two decades and a spatial scale of about 600 km2 constitutes spatial and temporal conditions for which little empirical evidence for the validity of SFT substitution exists.

SFT suggested a strong shift away from old‐growth plant community compositions after clearcutting with, misleadingly, no trend back over two decades. True temporal development, however, differed significantly from this expectation as it showed a directional trend back towards old‐growth plant community compositions after the initial displacement. Compositional recovery is predicted to take 100–200 years in the studied ecosystem. Accordingly, several late seral forest floor herbs and bryophytes were still missing completely even 50 years after clearcutting.

Synthesis. Non‐constant climate, species pools and management actions compromise the ability to reliably project temporal dynamics in plant community composition and stand structure by space‐for‐time substitutions, likely also for other scenarios than the studied subalpine conifer forests after stand‐replacing disturbance. Long‐term monitoring therefore is indispensable for understanding ecosystem dynamics, in particular in slow‐growing and stressful environments. Management needs to consider the slow regeneration in its planning of rotation times and is advised to monitor and retain species indicative of old‐growth conditions at the landscape level.
What explains changes in grape varietal mixes in Australia's wine regions?
Authors: Puga German , Anderson Kym
Published: October 2024

In an ever‐more‐competitive global beverage market, vignerons compete for the attention of consumers by trying to differentiate their wine from others while also responding to technological advances, climate change and evolving demand patterns. In doing so, they highlight their regional and varietal distinctiveness while keeping an eye on changes in consumer preferences for different varieties. This paper examines and seeks to explain the extent to which winegrape varietal mixes vary across regions and over time within Australia and relative to the rest of the world. It reports changes in indices of similarity across regions and indices of concentration in the winegrape varietal mix within regions. Nationally, the varietal mix has become less differentiated and closer to that of France and the world as a whole. However, individual regions within Australia are becoming more concentrated in their mix of varieties and more differentiated from other Australian regions. We estimate supply response models based on a Nerlovian adaptive profit expectations and partial acreage adjustment framework. These models do not provide insights into many of the variables influencing vignerons' planting decisions, but they help explain recent changes in varietal mixes. The results suggest that changes in varietal mixes are more motivated by expected revenues than by what may work best based on the climate of each region. In the wake of climate change and global wine demand premiumising, some Australian vignerons may find their region is too warm for producing high‐quality wine with the winegrape varieties planted there.
Birth Outcomes After Pertussis and Influenza Diagnosed in Pregnancy: A Retrospective, Population‐Based Study
Authors: Frawley Jane E. , He Wen‐Qiang , McCallum Lisa , McIntyre Peter , Hayen Andrew , Gidding Heather , Sullivan Elizabeth , Liu Bette
Published: October 2024

Objective

Adverse birth outcomes and the maternal severity of influenza in pregnancy are well documented but information on pertussis is limited.

Design

Population‐based linkage data were collected during 2001–2016.

Setting

New South Wales, Australia.

Population or Sample

A total of 1 453 037 singleton births.

Methods

Cox regression was used to estimate the associations between pertussis or influenza during pregnancy and birth outcomes with adjustment of covariates.

Main Outcome Measures

Adverse birth outcomes (preterm birth and low birth weight).

Results

Among 1 453 037 singleton births over 16 years, we identified pertussis in 925 (49; 5.3% hospitalised) and influenza in 2850 (1092; 38.3% hospitalised) women during pregnancy. Cases of pertussis were similarly distributed by trimester (32% 3rd) whereas 46% of influenza cases were in the 3rd trimester. Younger age, previous birth, and being overseas‐born were associated with both pertussis and influenza, whereas identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, hypertension or diabetes before and during pregnancy, and a number of other factors were only associated with influenza. Both pertussis and influenza in pregnancy were associated with increased risk of preterm birth (pertussis: aHR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.68; influenza: aHR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.36–1.79) and these increased risks were greater when infections in the period within 2 weeks of birth were considered (pertussis: aHR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.26–4.41; influenza: aHR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.78–2.96).

Conclusions

Maternal pertussis and influenza infections close to the time of birth were associated with adverse birth outcomes. These findings highlight the benefits of vaccination during pregnancy.
Do green policies achieve the carbon neutrality target? Revealing the effectiveness of environmental innovation
Authors: Xian Xiang , Wu Jiang , Huang Mei , Mou Qiuping
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, the Environmental policy and environmental innovation are becoming the central policy instruments aimed at carbon neutrality. This empirical study scrutinizes the role of environmental policy and eco‐innovation on CO2 emissions for G7 countries. The study employs second‐generation panel data econometric methods along with panel quantile regression spanning from 1990 to 2019. The empirical findings infer that environmental policy and eco‐innovation significantly mitigate CO2 emissions in the long run. While, panel quantile regression also infers that environmental policy is negatively significant in all quantiles, but eco‐innovation is negatively significant from the 40th to 70th quantiles and insignificant in all other quantiles. The estimated results may further reinforce the policymakers in G7 countries on the promotion of green policy and eco‐innovation in carbon neutrality targets.
Flagellate bacteria‐mediated tumour antigen delivery: A novel approach to enhance dendritic cell activation for in situ cancer vaccination
Authors: Xia Wen , Wu Jinhui
Published: October 2024

In situ vaccination is a therapeutic approach aimed at exploiting tumour antigens available at a tumour site to induce tumour‐specific adaptive immune responses. Antigens released from dying tumour cells are assumed to be taken up by activated dendritic cells and presented to T cells that seek out and destroy tumour cells. This process is significantly impeded in the immunosuppressive microenvironment of tumours. There is a growing trend in in situ vaccine strategies that utilize bacteria as natural adjuvants or as factories for cytokines, aiming to enhance the presentation of in situ antigens by antigen‐presenting cells. Recently, a novel approach using flagellate bacteria‐mediated antigen delivery to activate dendritic cells has been proposed. This method actively facilitates the delivery of intratumoral antigens, improving their presentation for in situ cancer vaccination. Here, we highlight how flagellate bacteria‐mediated antigen delivery enhances the immune activation capabilities of in situ vaccines. Meanwhile, we provide perspectives and outlooks on these promising antigen delivery technologies.
Effect of Aspect and Elevation on the Degree of Aggregation and the Functional Traits in Phlomis floccosa D. Don (Lamiacae) Populations
Authors: Al Borki Abd El‐Nasser S. , Alzerbi Abdulhamid K. , Kabiel Hanan F. , Hegazy Ahmad K.
Published: October 2024

Phlomis floccosa D. Don populations are distributed in different microhabitats within Al‐Akhdar mountainous landscape, in Libya. Five populations were selected for the study. Spatial relationships among individuals were investigated using the spatial point pattern analysis. Functional traits were recorded at the vegetative, flowering and fruiting stages. Seeds were collected at the dispersal stage to estimate the regeneration potential. Greater degree of aggregation was found at higher elevations on both northern and southern sides of the mountain but with different demography and traits. On the northern side, greater degree of aggregation was accompanied by absence of large adults and greater percentage of seedlings, and it was positively associated with the reproductive output, while negatively associated with the size and regeneration indices. On the southern side, greater degree of aggregation was accompanied by greater contribution of large adults and greater percentage of seedlings, and it was positively associated with the size and regeneration indices, while negatively associated with the reproductive output. On the other hand, the population in the wadi (valley) microhabitat showed coarse‐scale clumped pattern, higher values for most of the functional traits and higher contribution of seedlings but with lower facilitation offered by adults. The variations in the degree of aggregation and the functional traits trade‐offs in P. floccosa populations ensured successful survival and regeneration in the heterogeneous microhabitats. Meanwhile, stressed conditions greatly affect the survival and regeneration of the species suggesting the need for conservation measures to overcome the adverse effects of climate change.
How African Ungulates Respond to Tourist Vehicles in Kruger National Park
Authors: Romero Andrea , O'Neill Brian J. , Rauch Kristen , Roscoe Ashley
Published: October 2024

Managers of protected areas need to balance how they use or preserve their resources, especially regarding ‘road ecology’. This study focuses on Kruger National Park's (KNP) common ungulates’ response to tourist vehicles. We answered the following questions for impala, zebra, giraffe, blue wildebeest, greater kudu and steenbok: What mediates animal flight and flight distance from a vehicle? How much of KNP is affected by roads? Are ungulates using or avoiding roads? We sampled 55.9% of KNP's tourist roads, where we approached animals and determined whether and how far they fled. We georeferenced sightings and estimated the amount of land area along KNP's tourist roads where animals would be expected to flee from vehicles. Of 517 animal sightings, Impala were sighted most (263) and steenbok least (32). Impala had the highest flight propensity (42.6%) and wildebeest lowest (13%). Steenbok were found closest to the road (22.13 m) and wildebeest furthest (77.6 m). Impala had the closest tolerance distance (16.63 m), with zebra furthest (44.74 m). Impala fled the least distance (9.93 m) and zebra fled furthest (24.52 m). Binary logistic regressions (BLRs) showed that all species fled more consistently when closer to the road. The amount of KNP affected by animal flight based on BLRs was largest for zebra (2.32% of the park) and smallest for kudu (0.84%). Impala used the first 10 m of the roadside more than expected and 10–20 m from the road less. KNP's ungulates are habituated to vehicles since flight propensity was low, distribution analysis showed no‐road avoidance, flight distance was short, and animals > 50 m from the road generally do not flee. Given the amount of KNP that is already affected by vehicle traffic, as tourism increases, the land solely devoted to wildlife will necessarily decrease. This study aims to provide information for the best management of roads and traffic in KNP.
Role of Inflammatory Markers and Doppler Parameters in Late‐Onset Fetal Growth Restriction: A Machine‐Learning Approach
Authors: Ulusoy Can Ozan , Kurt Ahmet , Seyhanli Zeynep , Hizli Burak , Bucak Mevlut , Agaoglu Recep Taha , Oguz Yüksel , Yucel Kadriye Yakut
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study evaluates the association of novel inflammatory markers and Doppler parameters in late‐onset FGR (fetal growth restriction), utilizing a machine‐learning approach to enhance predictive accuracy.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective case–control study was conducted at the Department of Perinatology, Ministry of Health Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, from 2023 to 2024. The study included 240 patients between 32 and 37 weeks of gestation, divided equally between patients diagnosed with late‐onset FGR and a control group. We focused on novel inflammatory markers—systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), and neutrophil‐percentage‐to‐albumin ratio (NPAR)—and their correlation with Doppler parameters of umbilical and uterine arteries. Machine‐learning algorithms were employed to analyze the data collected, including demographic, neonatal, and clinical parameters, to develop a predictive model for FGR.

Results

The machine‐learning model, specifically the Random Forest algorithm, effectively integrated the inflammatory markers with Doppler parameters to predict FGR. NPAR showed a significant correlation with FGR presence, providing a robust tool in the predictive model (Accuracy 77%, area under the curve [AUC] 0.851). In contrast, SII and SIRI, while useful, did not achieve the same level of predictive accuracy (Accuracy 75% AUC 0.818 and Accuracy 73% AUC 0.793, respectively). The model highlighted the potential of combining ultrasound measurements with inflammatory markers to improve diagnostic accuracy for late‐onset FGR.

Conclusions

This study illustrates the efficacy of integrating machines with traditional diagnostic methods to enhance the prediction of late‐onset FGR. Further research with a larger cohort is recommended to validate these findings and refine the predictive model, which could lead to improved clinical outcomes for affected pregnancies.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06372938
The more smoking the more cataract: A study on smoking, snus use and cataract in a Swedish population
Authors: Nordström Moa , Zetterberg Madeleine , Torén Kjell , Schiöler Linus , Holm Mathias
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To examine the prevalence of self‐reported cataract and cataract surgery, and the incidence of cataract surgery, in relation to smoking and use of the moist smokeless tobacco product snus.

Methods

In 2014/2015, individuals born in 1951 (n = 18 055) in the Västra Götaland County, Sweden, were invited to participate. Of these, 9743 (54%) accepted participation and 9316 (52%) remained after exclusion criteria were applied. Participants answered a questionnaire with items about eye conditions, smoking, snus, gender, education, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, corticosteroid use, diabetes mellitus, weight and height. Prevalence ratios (PRs) for self‐reported cataract and cataract surgery were calculated. The incidence of cataract surgery was assessed, and hazard ratios (HRs) were presented.

Results

Having ever smoked was associated with a higher prevalence ratio of self‐reported cataract (PR 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.35) and cataract surgery (PR 1.27, 95% CI 1.06–1.53), compared to those who had never been daily smokers. Currently, a smoker was associated with a higher HR of cataract surgery (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.04–1.74), as well as having been a former smoker (HR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03–1.56). Total years of smoking were associated with an increased risk for cataract surgery (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08 for 5 years of smoking). Snus use was not associated with an increased prevalence of cataract or incidence of cataract surgery, except among women who were current snus users (HR for cataract surgery 2.04, 95% CI 1.16–3.60 n = 108).

Conclusion

Smoking is associated with a higher prevalence of cataracts, and a higher incidence of cataract surgery, indicating a dose–response relationship. However, there was no firm association between snus use and cataract.
The effects of corporate social responsibility on member loyalty: The mediating effect of psychological ownership and customer citizenship behaviour in Korean consumer cooperatives
Authors: Kim Sunhwa , Kim Ahyoung , Huh Kwangjin , Park Sangsun
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to elucidate the relationship between members' perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) within consumer cooperatives, their loyalty towards the cooperatives and the mediating roles of psychological ownership and consumer citizenship behaviour. A sample comprising 773 members of four Korean consumer cooperative federations was constructed and analysed using the structural equation model. In Korea, consumer cooperatives have developed a production and distribution network for eco‐friendly organic agricultural products. In addition, they have grown by practicing social responsibility as a primary organizational goal with consumer members. The results show that CSR perceptions have a direct effect on member loyalty, and psychological ownership and customer citizenship behaviour serially mediate the relationship between perceived CSR and member loyalty. This paper provides empirical support for suggestions about the factors influencing member loyalty within consumer cooperatives and the relative importance of non‐financial motivations. It also provides a foundation upon which practitioners of cooperatives can build more effective CSR communications strategies with members.
Beyond hemoglobin: Critical role of 2,3‐bisphosphoglycerate mutase in kidney function and injury
Authors: Kulow Vera A. , Roegner Kameliya , Labes Robert , Kasim Mumtaz , Mathia Susanne , Czopek Claudia S. , Berndt Nikolaus , Becker Philipp N. , Ter‐Avetisyan Gohar , Luft Friedrich C. , Enghard Philipp , Hinze Christian , Klocke Jan , Eckardt Kai‐Uwe , Schmidt‐Ott Kai M. , Persson Pontus B. , Rosenberger Christian , Fähling Michael
Published: October 2024

Aim

2,3‐bisphosphoglycerate mutase (BPGM) is traditionally recognized for its role in modulating oxygen affinity to hemoglobin in erythrocytes. Recent transcriptomic analyses, however, have indicated a significant upregulation of BPGM in acutely injured murine and human kidneys, suggesting a potential renal function for this enzyme. Here we aim to explore the physiological role of BPGM in the kidney.

Methods

A tubular‐specific, doxycycline‐inducible Bpgm‐knockout mouse model was generated. Histological, immunofluorescence, and proteomic analyses were conducted to examine the localization of BPGM expression and the impact of its knockout on kidney structure and function. In vitro studies were performed to investigate the metabolic consequences of Bpgm knockdown under osmotic stress.

Results

BPGM expression was localized to the distal nephron and was absent in proximal tubules. Inducible knockout of Bpgm resulted in rapid kidney injury within 4 days, characterized by proximal tubular damage and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Proteomic analyses revealed involvement of BPGM in key metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, oxidative stress response, and inflammation. In vitro, Bpgm knockdown led to enhanced glycolysis, decreased reactive oxygen species elimination capacity under osmotic stress, and increased apoptosis. Furthermore, interactions between nephron segments and immune cells in the kidney suggested a mechanism for propagating stress signals from distal to proximal tubules.

Conclusion

BPGM fulfills critical functions beyond the erythrocyte in maintaining glucose metabolism in the distal nephron. Its absence leads to metabolic imbalances, increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and ultimately kidney injury.
SET facilitates immune escape of microsatellite stability colorectal cancer by inhibiting c‐Myc degradation
Authors: Gao Liping , Li Yizhang , Wang Haizhou , Liu Jialong , Zhang Ranran , Shan Wenqing , Zeng Lingxiu , Zhao Qiu , Li Yong , Liu Jing
Published: October 2024

Microsatellite stability (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC) exhibits a low mutation load and poor immunogenicity, contributing to immune escape of tumor cells and less benefit from immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) treatment. The mechanisms underlying immunotherapeutic resistance in MSS CRC remain to be elucidated. Here, we identified that nuclear proto‐oncogene SET is significantly higher expressed in MSS CRC compared to microsatellite instability (MSI) CRC and facilitates immune escape of MSS CRC. Mechanistically, SET represses the expression of C‐C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) and upregulates mismatch repair (MMR) proteins expression in a c‐Myc‐dependent manner, which inhibits infiltration and migration of CD8+ T cells to tumor tissues and results in low immunogenicity in MSS CRC. In addition, we found that SET impairs ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of c‐Myc by disrupting the interaction between E3 ligase FBXW7 and c‐Myc. Moreover, SET inhibition enhances the response to immunotherapy in MSS CRC in vivo. Overall, this study reveals the critical roles and posttranslational regulatory mechanism of SET in immune escape and highlights the SET/c‐Myc axis as a potential target for immunotherapy of MSS CRC that have implications for targeting a unique aspect of this disease.
Feasibility of a Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Protocol for “off‐on” Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Evaluation
Authors: Basile Christian , Scatteia Alessandra , Giacopelli Daniele , Gallo Paolo , Pezzullo Salvatore , Mancusi Costantino , Pascale Carmine E. , Gargiulo Paola , Marzano Federica , Perrone‐Filardi Pasquale , Paolillo Stefania , Dellegrottaglie Santo
Published: October 2024

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a standard treatment for patients with heart failure and electrical dyssynchrony. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for assessing left ventricular (LV) function. However, the feasibility of using CMR with active CRT is still uncertain.

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of a CRT “off‐on” protocol during CMR and measure the acute effects of CRT interruption on LV function.

Methods

Patients underwent CMR before (pre‐CRT) and 6 months after (post‐CRT) an MR‐conditional CRT defibrillator implantation. The post‐CRT scan included two complete sets of cine images, one with inactive (post‐CRTOFF) and one with active CRT (post‐CRTON), maintaining a continuous connection between device and programmer.

Results

Out of 29 enrolled patients, 8 (28%) had complete and analyzable post‐CRT data. Unsuccessful procedures were attributed to connection problems between the CRT device and the programmer (n = 10), poor image quality (n = 7), and lack of patient cooperation (n = 4). LV ejection fraction significantly increased between pre‐CRT scan (28.1%) and both post‐CRTOFF (37.9%; p = 0.046) and post‐CRTON CMR (35.0%; p = 0.037), with a nonstatistically significant trend toward decreased LV volumes. No adverse events or significant changes in device electrical parameters (including battery level) were detected during the post‐CMR scan period.

Conclusion

A CRT “off‐on” protocol during CMR studies can be safely executed in patients with an MR‐conditional CRT defibrillator. However, technical improvements are needed to facilitate high‐quality scans during active CRT. Favorable changes in LV function induced by CRT remodeling were not acutely reversed with the interruption of electrical therapy.
Dominance of a highly invasive ant is limited to the nesting territory of its supercolony
Authors: Chifflet Lucila , Calcaterra Luis A.
Published: October 2024

Ant invasions represent a serious threat to biodiversity, agriculture and public health. Highly invasive ant species exhibit a very high abundance within its introduced range and cause severe impacts on native ant communities. This scenario tends to be different within the native range, where competitor ants may limit its access to food sources, thus its abundance.

Here, we evaluated the competitive ability of a typical clonal and supercolonial native population of Wasmannia auropunctata (Roger) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Argentina. We used a combination of pitfall traps and food baits to study the ant interactions within an assemblage where W. auropunctata coexists with another great invader, Solenopsis invicta (Buren) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).

The studied assemblage presented 56 ant species/morphospecies. Although W. auropunctata was the most abundant numerically, its ability to discover baits was intermediate, and its ability to recruit workers massively and monopolise baits was low. Wasmannia auropunctata was not successful defending baits nor attempting to usurp baits dominated by other species.

Moreover, it lost all contests against S. invicta, one of the most ecologically dominant species in this assemblage. Wasmannia auropunctata dominated food sources only when they were located within the nesting territory of its supercolony.

Within the native range, clonality and supercoloniality may favour the local numerical abundance of a highly invasive ant but may not be enough to achieve ecological dominance. This study sheds light on the important role of biotic interactions as a key factor that may limit the dispersal of invasive species.
Integrating artificial intelligence into team decision‐making: Toward a theory of AI–human team effectiveness
Authors: Carter William , Wynne Kevin T.
Published: October 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI), a technological advancement radically affecting the workplace of the future, offers benefits for decision‐making processes. The most critical organizational decisions typically occur through teams. However, team theories are fundamentally psychosocial, and AI disrupts this context by introducing a non‐human actor. Therefore, negative implications of AI's role must also be understood. Toward theory on the effective integration of AI into team decision‐making, we synthesize the literatures on team effectiveness and team decision‐making with research from cognate disciplines on human–technology interaction and teaming. Based on this synthesis, we offer propositions highlighting key variable relationships and negative side effects that must be accounted for in AI–human team decision‐making and follow with practical suggestions for management's adaption to this new context. Overall, our analysis emphasizes critical themes, constructs, and relationships valuable for further research aimed at modernizing theory and practice in the face of this emerging technological shift.
Communicatively constructing resilience: Exploring family resilience in the experience of hereditary cancer
Authors: Campbell‐Salome Gemme , Chernichky‐Karcher Skye , Dean Marleah
Published: October 2024

Objective

The goal was to explore how families communicate to cope with hereditary cancer conditions and identify factors that may enhance resilience and recommended decision‐making.

Background

Families with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer syndrome (HBOC), Lynch syndrome (LS), and Li‐Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) have an increased lifetime risk of developing cancer. We use the communication theory of resilience (CTR) to examine how families engage in resilience and make health decisions about hereditary cancer risks over time.

Method

We conducted 42 dyadic interviews with families with HBOC, LS, and LFS. Themes emerged through qualitative analysis for each of the resilience processes outlined by CTR (crafting normalcy, communication networks, identity anchors, alternative logics, and foregrounding productive action while legitimizing negative feelings), illustrating how family members manage stressors associated with hereditary cancer over time.

Results

Participants described enacting each of the five CTR processes to manage the acute and chronic stressors associated with hereditary cancer. We described themes that emerged within each of the five resilience processes.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate the ways in which families managing hereditary cancer risks enact resilience processes and how these processes may have a complex relationship to coping and medical decision‐making.

Implications

Findings demonstrate areas for intervention to support familial resilience.
Long‐ and short‐term responses to climate change in body and appendage size of diverse Australian birds
Authors: Ryding Sara , McQueen Alexandra , Klaassen Marcel , Tattersall Glenn J. , Symonds Matthew R. E.
Published: October 2024

Changes to body size and shape have been identified as potential adaptive responses to climate change, but the pervasiveness of these responses has been questioned. To address this, we measured body and appendage size from 5013 museum bird skins of 78 ecologically and evolutionary diverse Australian species. We found that morphological change is a shared response to climate change across birds. Birds increased relative bill surface area, tarsus length, and relative wing length through time, consistent with expectations of increasing appendage size as climates warm. Furthermore, birds decreased in absolute wing length, consistent with the expectation of decreasing body size in warmer climates. Interestingly, these trends were generally consistent across different diets and migratory and thermoregulatory behaviors. Shorter term responses to higher temperatures were contrary to long‐term effects for appendages, wherein relative appendage size decreased after hotter years, indicating the complex selective pressures acting on birds as temperatures rise with climate change. Overall, our findings support the notion that morphological adaptation is a widespread response to climate change in birds that is independent of other ecological traits.
The lncRNA TPTEP1 suppresses PI3K/AKT signalling and inhibits ovarian cancer progression by interacting with PTBP1
Authors: Feng Yifan , Zhang Zhe , Yang Huijun , Miao Fulu , Li Yuyang , Zhang Minmin , Cao Yunxia , Li Min
Published: October 2024

The expression of the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) TPTE pseudogene 1 (TPTEP1) is significantly downregulated in ovarian cancer (OC). However, the function and mechanism of the lncRNA TPTEP1 in OC have not been identified. To investigate the expression of the lncRNA TPTEP1, we analysed a publicly available dataset and 20 pairs of OC and normal ovarian samples tissue from the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. Functional assays were used to determine the role of the lncRNA TPTEP1 in OC progression. Furthermore, Western blot, FISH, RNA pull‐down, mass spectrometry and RNA immunoprecipitation approaches were used to determine the mechanism by which the lncRNA TPTEP1 affects OC progression. Animal experiments were used to determine the role of the lncRNA TPTEP1 in ovarian tumorigenicity in vivo. The expression of the lncRNA TPTEP1 in OC tissues was significantly lower than that in normal tissues and low expression of the lncRNA TPTEP1 was significantly correlated with advanced FIGO stage and the presence of malignant ascites in OC patients. In vitro and in vivo, regulation of the expression of the lncRNA TPTEP1 caused changes in OC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Mechanistically, we found that TPTEP1 directly binds to the polypyrimidine tract‐binding protein 1 (PTBP1) protein and inhibits PI3K/AKT signalling. The lncRNA TPTEP1 inhibits PI3K/AKT signalling by directly binding PTBP1, possibly indicating the molecular mechanism underlying its biological function. With further research, these findings may aid in the development of clinically useful strategies for the treatment of OC.