bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 outbreak and stock price volatility: does ESO have a moderating effect? Evidence from France
Authors: Garfatta Riadh , Zorgati Imen , Talbi Najoua
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, it attempts to examine the impact of covid-19 outbreak on the volatility of stock prices, and then it investigates the moderating role of employee stock ownership on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample includes 108 French companies from the CAC All-Tradable index observed quarterly over a period from the first quarter of 2020 to the fourth quarter of 2022. The GMM estimator of the system in the context of dynamic panel data is used.

Findings

The findings show a positive impact of covid-19 pandemic on stock price volatility. Furthermore, the employee stock ownership has a negative moderating effect on the volatility-Covid-19 relationship. These results suggest that in times of crisis, investors have more confidence in companies with employee stock ownership plans than in those without.

Research limitations/implications

These findings have strong implications for investors and provide guidance for regulators and policymakers. Indeed, companies with greater employee stock ownership (ESO) can better withstand the volatility induced by Covid-19. This highlights the beneficial role of employee involvement in a company’s governance, providing an interesting perspective on risk management and financial stability during times of crisis such as the current pandemic.

Originality/value

The present study is an extension of the existing literature from two perspectives. Firstly, it examines the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on the volatility of stock prices of companies in all sectors, except the financial sector. Secondly, it aims to investigate the moderating effect of ESO on this relationship, which is the major contribution of this work. Indeed, to our knowledge, no study has examined the moderating role of ESO on Covid-volatility relationship, although such a moderating effect is theoretically presumed to exist.
Play alone or play together? A comparative study of single- and multi-person interactions in virtual tourism
Authors: Zhong Lina , Zhu Mengyao , Li Meiling , Morrison Alastair M. , Yang Liyu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to compare the differences between single- and multi-person interactions in virtual tourism, underpinned by the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) framework and media richness theory (MRT).

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, quantitative data gathered from questionnaires applied to 558 individuals was analyzed by using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The moderating role of interaction type was tested through multigroup analysis (MGA).

Findings

The results showed that vividness positively influenced telepresence, perceived attractiveness and authentic experiences; telepresence positively affected authentic experiences and perceived attractiveness; and authentic experiences and perceived attractiveness positively impacted willingness to visit in both interaction groups. A difference was detected between the two groups in that perceptions of media vividness were more easily transformed into a willingness to visit through telepresence in the multi-person interaction group. Interaction type moderated the effect of vividness on telepresence. The vividness of the media had a more significant effect on telepresence among those who participated in virtual tourism together.

Originality/value

In this study, a model was developed to explain how media vividness affected willingness to visit by considering the relationships between telepresence, authentic experiences and perceived attractiveness in virtual reality, as well as the social interaction aspect.
Revolutionizing smart textiles: a comprehensive review of conductive ink printing for sustainable and adaptive wearable applications
Authors: Dutta Sudev , Dogra Sudhanshu , Sharma Sumit
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The demand of species monitoring for the benefit of various sectors such as industrial, medicinal and ecological has surged rapidly in the recent past. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to articulate the major developments in synthesizing conductive inks for the structurization of miniaturized as well as disposable or reusable electrochemical equipments.

Design/methodology/approach

This section is not applicable to a review paper.

Findings

Numerous times the need for the use point becomes significant for achieving accurate as well as swift quantification. As an alternate, the wearable and effectual reuseable electrochemical sensors are being practiced. The technique of fabricating devices using conductive inks encompasses novelty, as it provides flexibility in designing the electrodes. The increase in the popularity of inks development is governed by its features of simplicity, reduced cost and waste generation, high production and eco-friendly engineering procedures. Further, the electrochemistry aspects of conductive inks highlighting the importance of their compounds and binders has also been discussed emphasizing on the conductive materials.

Originality/value

This paper is an original review work. This paper will be helpful for manufacturers/researchers from smart wearable textile sector in envisaging innovative developing techniques of sensors as well as biosensors through conductive inks.
Systematic literature review of themes and definitions of industrialized construction
Authors: Kauppinen Laura , Annunen Petteri , Haapasalo Harri
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Industrialized construction has brought about expectations of improved productivity in the construction industry. However, the lack of a commonly accepted definition has created confusion regarding the types of development covered by the industrialized construction umbrella. These inconsistent definitions convoluted the discussion on this phenomenon. This study aims to clarify the definition of industrialized construction through a systematic literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

This systematic literature review was conducted according to PRISMA principles. Records were gathered from Scopus and Web of Science. Following the scientometric analysis, content analysis was conducted according to the template analysis approach.

Findings

The analysis of 121 articles revealed four main themes related to industrialized construction: 1) the construction concept, 2) construction methodologies, 3) systematization, rationalization and automatization and 4) societal and industrial change processes. Definitions of industrialized construction can be analyzed with seven clusters: 1) prefabrication, 2) standardization, 3) sector, 4) integration, 5) manufacturing practices, 6) technological investment and 7) none. Based on the content analysis, the proposed definition is: industrialized construction is the adoption of practices that minimize project-specific work in construction from the start of the design to the end of the building’s life cycle.

Originality/value

This study proposes a definition for industrialized construction following content analysis of broadly sampled literature. The proposed definition can provide a basis on which developments in the construction industry can be reflected.
Traveling with ChatGPT and providing translation services for travelers
Authors: Kundan Zheng , Hossain Md Sazzad , Shahidul Islam Mohammad , Alam Mohammad Nurul , Parvez M. Omar
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Language barriers have always been obstacles to traveling abroad, making travelers less interested. This study aims to investigate how ChatGPT, as a translator, affects travelers’ behavioral intentions based on the perceived language barriers using the ChatGPT voice translation app.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 531 responses were collected over a specific survey period using a cross-sectional time frame. This study proposed a research model based on technology acceptance model (TAM) and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), and the proposed hypotheses were investigated using bootstrapping techniques and Smart-PLS analysis.

Findings

This study’s results are significant as they reveal that ChatGPT enables translated service to travelers and enhances their willingness to travel abroad. This finding indicates a considerable enhancement in the traveler’s confidence in communicating with residents, thereby emphasizing ChatGPT’s pivotal role in overcoming language barriers in the travel industry.

Originality/value

This research is novel in its approach as it delineates the influence of ChatGPT’s translation services on travelers’ willingness and behavioral intentions regarding international travel. By filling a significant gap in the existing literature, this study provides a fresh perspective on the role of technology in overcoming language barriers in the travel industry.
Development of a tailored questionnaire instrument to evaluate thermal sensation of elderly people in India
Authors: Sudarsanam Niveditha , Kannamma D.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

India’s growing elderly population necessitates ensuring indoor thermal comfort because of their vulnerability to temperature-related illnesses and reduced capacity to regulate body temperature. Currently, thermal sensation (TS) assessment scales, designed for those between 20 and 60 years of age, may not accurately capture the preferences of elderly adults. To address the gap, this study aims to identify appropriate scaling methods to help the elderly understand the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE-55) seven-point TS scale clearly.

Design/methodology/approach

Four scaling methods – color, emoji, landscape images and regional images scales – identified from literature were analyzed using quantitative approaches. The differences between two age groups (<60 years and = 60 years) were examined using frequency distribution differences and independent sample t-test methods.

Findings

Results indicated that both younger/middle-aged (<60 years) and elderly individuals (= 60 years) were adept at identifying color and regional images scale, while emoji and landscape images scale posed challenges for the elderly. Furthermore, a tailored questionnaire instrument was developed to enhance the comprehension of TS questions for the elderly. One sample t-test results indicated that the proposed questionnaire instrument is a better fit to support ASHRAE-55 seven-point TS scale, making it particularly effective for the elderly population.

Originality/value

This research presents a novel, tailored questionnaire instrument that significantly enhances the elderly population’s comprehension of TS questions, thereby improving the accuracy of thermal comfort assessments and contributing to the creation of better indoor thermal environments for the elderly people.
Tissue‐specific alternative splicing and the functional differentiation of LmLPMO15‐1 in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Kong Lin , Hu Huiying , Li Pengfei , Qu Mingbo
Published: November 2024

Insect lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMO15s) are newly discovered copper‐dependent enzymes that promote chitin degradation in insect through oxidative cleavage of glycosidic bonds. They are potential pesticide targets due to their critical role for chitin turnover in the integument, trachea, and peritrophic matrix of the midgut during insect molting. However, the knowledge about whether and how LPMO15s participate in chitin turnover in other tissues is still insufficient. Here, using the orthopteran pest Locusta migratoria as a model, a novel alternative splicing site of LmLPMO15‐1 was discovered and it produces 2 variants, LmLPMO15‐1a and LmLPMO15‐1b. The transcripts of LmLPMO15‐1a and LmLPMO15‐1b were specifically expressed in the trachea and foregut, respectively. RNA interference targeting LmLPMO15‐1 (a common fragment shared by both LmLPMO15‐1a and LmLPMO15‐1b), a specific region of LmLPMO15‐1a or LmLPMO15‐1b all significantly reduced survival rate of nymphs and induced lethal phenotypes with developmental stasis or molt failure. Ultrastructure analysis demonstrated that LmLPMO15‐1b was specifically involved in foregut old cuticle degradation, while LmLPMO15‐1a was exclusively responsible for the degradation of the tracheal old cuticle. This study revealed LmLPMO15‐1 achieved tissue‐specific functional differentiation through alternative splicing, and proved the significance of the spliced variants during insect growth and development. It provides new strategies for pest control targeting LPMO15‐1.
Trends of genetic contributions on epigenetic clocks and related methylation sites with aging: A population‐based adult twin study
Authors: Hong Xuanming , Cao Hui , Cao Weihua , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Huang Tao , Sun Dianjianyi , Liao Chunxiao , Pang Yuanjie , Hu Runhua , Gao Ruqin , Yu Min , Zhou Jinyi , Wu Xianping , Liu Yu , Yin Shengli , Gao Wenjing , Li Liming
Published: November 2024

Several crucial acceleration periods exist during aging process. Epigenetic clocks, serving as indicators of aging, are influenced by genetic factors. Investigating how the genetic contributions on these clocks change with age may provide novel insights into the aging process. In this study, based on 1084 adult twins from the Chinese National Twin Registry (CNTR), we established structural equation models (SEMs) to evaluate the trends in genetic influence with aging for epigenetic clocks, which include PC‐Horvath, PC‐Hannum, PC‐PhenoAge, PC‐GrimAge, and DunedinPACE. A decline in overall heritability was observed for all five clocks from ages 31 to 70, with a relatively stable trend at first. Subsequently, apart from PC‐GrimAge, the other four clocks displayed a more evident drop in heritability: DunedinPACE and PC‐PhenoAge experienced a clear decline between 55 and 65 years, while PC‐Horvath and PC‐Hannum showed a similar decrease between 60 and 70 years. In contrast, the heritability of PC‐GrimAge remained stable throughout. An analysis of methylation sites (CpGs) from these clocks identified 41, 26, 4, and 36 CpG sites potentially underlying heritability changes in DunedinPACE, PC‐Horvath, PC‐Hannum, and PC‐PhenoAge, respectively. Data from the CNTR were collected through two surveys in 2013 and 2018. Based on 308 twins with longitudinal data, declines in genetic components were observed at follow‐up compared to baseline, with significant decreases in the four PC‐clocks. DunedinPACE peaked in 5‐year longitudinal genetic contribution changes at age 55–60, while PC‐clocks consistently peaked at age 50–55. These findings may offer novel insights into the role of genetic variations in aging.
Anxiety and depression among a community‐recruited cohort of people who use methamphetamine: A longitudinal analysis
Authors: Duncan Zoe , Kippen Rebecca , Sutton Keith , Ward Bernadette , Rathnayake Kasun , Quinn Brendan , Dietze Paul
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study (1) estimated changes in anxiety and depression throughout 3 years in a community‐recruited cohort who use methamphetamine and (2) modelled whether these changes were associated with patterns of methamphetamine use or other time‐varying or fixed covariates.

Design, setting and participants

We used a longitudinal analysis using data derived from surveys conducted between August 2016 and March 2020, set in metropolitan and rural locations in Victoria, Australia. Participants comprised a total of 849 adults with regular methamphetamine use history at baseline, recruited for the prospective VMAX study via snowball and respondent‐driven sampling.

Measurements

Anxiety and depression symptoms were measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)‐7 and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)‐9 instruments. Frequency of methamphetamine use was measured by self‐reported number of days per week participants used any form of methamphetamine in the past month.

Findings

Changes in anxiety and depression symptom scores were associated with change in route of administration from non‐injecting to injecting [adjusted coefficient (adj. coeff.) = 1.44, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.39, 2.48, adj. coeff. = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.39, 2.58], change in severity of dependence for methamphetamine (adj. coeff. = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.21, 0.37, adj. coeff. = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.26, 0.42), starting treatment for drugs other than methamphetamine (adj. coeff. = −2.21, 95% CI = −3.70, −0.73, adj. coeff. = −2.09, 95% CI = −3.60, −0.58) and other covariates.

Conclusions

Among regular methamphetamine users in Australia, changes in anxiety or depression scores are associated with changes in route of administration, dependence severity and starting treatment for other drugs, but do not appear to be associated with frequency of methamphetamine use.
Hypothermia—Prevalence and risk factors in neonates admitted to a neonatal unit in Tanzania
Authors: Braa Hanne Gaup , Mathisen Elisabeth Asta , Moshiro Robert , Daudi Vickfarajaeli X. , Francis Fortunata , Mduma Esto , Ersdal Hege , Størdal Ketil
Published: November 2024

Aim

We aimed to study the prevalence of hypothermia among neonates, the association between admission temperature and neonatal mortality, and the impact of radiant warmers.

Methods

In an observational prospective study, we included 1988 neonates born at Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Tanzania, and admitted to the neonatal unit from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022. We explored risk factors for hypothermia (<36.0°C, primary outcome) and newborn mortality by admission temperature (secondary outcome) with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for birth weight and bag and mask ventilation.

Results

Hypothermia was present in 47.0% (n = 935) at admission, 46.9% (n = 932) were normothermic or mildly hypothermic (36.0–37.5°C), and 6.1% (n = 121) hyperthermic. Of those admitted to the neonatal unit, 217 (10.9%) died. For every 1°C increase in temperature, neonatal mortality decreased by 31% (aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.59–0.82). Admission temperature <34.5°C was strongly associated with mortality (aOR 3.56, 1.87–6.79). Mild hypothermia (36.0–36.5°C) was not associated with mortality (aOR 1.30, 0.72–2.37). Risk factors for hypothermia were bag and mask ventilation (aOR 2.53, 2.07–3.11) and low birth weight. The introduction of radiant warmers from 1 May 2022 was associated with a decrease in hypothermia (aOR 0.54, 0.41–0.72).

Conclusion

Hypothermia is prevalent even in tropical settings and maintaining normothermia after birth is critical and achievable for reducing neonatal mortality.
Amount, type and storage of medicines in households – A survey for medicine users
Authors: Louhisalmi Mella , Lavikainen Piia , Linden Kari , Martikainen Janne , Timonen Johanna
Published: November 2024

With increasing medicine use, more medicines are being stored at home, yet the understanding of household medicines remains limited. This study aimed to assess the amount, type and storage practices of medicines in households. It also explored the reasons for unnecessary or expired medicines, as well as the factors associated with the presence of expired medicines in a household. The online survey was conducted among loyal customers of University Pharmacy in June 2023 (n = 5004). The data were analysed for frequencies and percentages, and binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between background factors and expired medicines in households. On average, one household had 13.9 active, 2.8 unnecessary and 2.2 expired medicine packs. Medicines were typically stored in the kitchen (67.0%) and in cabinets (58.7%), and 40% were to be stored safely. The main reasons for unnecessary or expired medicines were improved health (39.2%), medication changes (31.9%) and oversized packs (28.0%). Households returning medicines biennially (odds ratio (OR): 2.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.13–3.82) and those with many active medicines (OR: 2.14; 95% CI: 1.79–2.54) had expired medicines more often. The study showed that households had many medicines, highlighting the need for better storage and optimized packaging to improve safety, reduce waste and enhance rational pharmacotherapy.
Clonal haemopoiesis and venous thromboembolism risk
Authors: Steensma David P.
Published: November 2024

Many cases of venous thromboembolism (VTE) are idiopathic and clonal haemopoiesis, a risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular disease, may be a contributing factor to VTE. The report by Englisch and colleagues suggests that clonal haemopoiesis is a risk factor for recurrent VTE, especially in people without identifiable thrombotic predisposition.

Commentary on: Englisch et al. Association of clonal hematopoiesis with recurrent venous thromboembolism: A case‐control study. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:263‐271.
Zooming in the plastisphere: the ecological interface for phytoplankton–plastic interactions in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Nava Veronica , Dar Jaffer Y. , De Santis Vanessa , Fehlinger Lena , Pasqualini Julia , Adekolurejo Oloyede A. , Burri Bryan , Cabrerizo Marco J. , Chonova Teofana , Cour Mathilde , Dory Flavia , Drost Annemieke M. , Figler Aida , Gionchetta Giulia , Halabowski Dariusz , Harvey Daniel R. , Manzanares‐Vázquez Víctor , Misteli Benjamin , Mori‐Bazzano Laureen , Moser Valentin , Rotta Federica , Schmid‐Paech Bianca , Touchet Camille M. , Gostyńska Julia
Published: November 2024

Phytoplankton is an essential resource in aquatic ecosystems, situated at the base of aquatic food webs. Plastic pollution can impact these organisms, potentially affecting the functioning of aquatic ecosystems. The interaction between plastics and phytoplankton is multifaceted: while microplastics can exert toxic effects on phytoplankton, plastics can also act as a substrate for colonisation. By reviewing the existing literature, this study aims to address pivotal questions concerning the intricate interplay among plastics and phytoplankton/phytobenthos and analyse impacts on fundamental ecosystem processes (e.g. primary production, nutrient cycling). This investigation spans both marine and freshwater ecosystems, examining diverse organisational levels from subcellular processes to entire ecosystems. The diverse chemical composition of plastics, along with their variable properties and role in forming the “plastisphere”, underscores the complexity of their influences on aquatic environments. Morphological changes, alterations in metabolic processes, defence and stress responses, including homoaggregation and extracellular polysaccharide biosynthesis, represent adaptive strategies employed by phytoplankton to cope with plastic‐induced stress. Plastics also serve as potential habitats for harmful algae and invasive species, thereby influencing biodiversity and environmental conditions. Processes affected by phytoplankton–plastic interaction can have cascading effects throughout the aquatic food web via altered bottom‐up and top‐down processes. This review emphasises that our understanding of how these multiple interactions compare in impact on natural processes is far from complete, and uncertainty persists regarding whether they drive significant alterations in ecological variables. A lack of comprehensive investigation poses a risk of overlooking fundamental aspects in addressing the environmental challenges associated with widespread plastic pollution.
Early Detection of Psychosis in Eating Disorders: Unnecessary or a Useful Addition?
Authors: de Bont Paul A. J. M. , Seelen‐de Lang Birgit , Maas Joyce , Bodde Nynke M. G.
Published: November 2024

Aim

The absence of consensus regarding the presence and interpretation of certain symptoms as indicative of either a psychosis spectrum disorder or an eating disorder (ED) can hinder cooperation amongst treatment programmes for the early detection of psychosis and an ED. This study trans‐diagnostically assessed the prevalence and co‐occurrence of at‐risk mental states for a psychosis (ARMS) or the risk of having an ED (EDr), and it explored the characteristics of ARMS profiles of individuals with an EDr.

Method

This cross‐sectional and observational‐prevalence study used assessment outcomes from an ED screening instrument (SCOFF), a psychosis prodromal screening questionnaire (PQ16) and a CAARMS interview (to evaluate the possibility of ARMS) with newly admitted outpatients aged 16–35 who were referred for various kinds of non‐psychotic disorders from a secondary Mental Health Care Centre in the Netherlands. Data analysis consisted of calculating prevalences, associations amongst variables and conditional probabilities.

Results

Of the 736 individuals who were screened, an EDr was identified in 51.2% and 49.0% of the participants who scored high on the PQ16, half of whom also completed the CAARMS interview. The results indicated that 53.0% of the participants were classified as not having ARMS, 28.3% as having ARMS and 18.7% as having a psychosis. EDr patients presented with symptoms of a psychotic spectrum disorder, which included both ED‐consistent and ED‐inconsistent symptoms. There were relatively frequent endorsements of the two subscale items guilt/punishment and ideas of reference.

Conclusions

From a trans‐diagnostical perspective, the results indicate that collaboration amongst ED programmes and psychosis prevention interventions should be strongly encouraged. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct studies that assess associations amongst and features of psychotic spectrum symptoms in EDs. The unexpectedly high proportion of EDr suggests that a co‐morbid ED in other kinds of psychopathology is being overlooked.
Rescaling perceptual hand maps by visual‐tactile recalibration
Authors: Fuchs Xaver , Heed Tobias
Published: November 2024

After concurrent visual and tactile stimuli have been presented repeatedly with a spatial offset, unisensory tactile stimuli, too, are perceived with a spatial bias towards the previously presented visual stimuli. This so‐called visual‐tactile ventriloquism aftereffect reflects crossmodal recalibration. As touch is intrinsically linked to body parts, we asked here whether recalibration occurs at the level of individual stimuli or at a higher, integrated, map‐like level. We applied tactile stimuli to participants' hidden left hand and simultaneously presented visual stimuli with spatial offsets that, if integrated with the tactile stimuli, implied a larger hand. After recalibration, participants pointed to tactile‐only stimuli and judged the distance between two tactile stimuli on the hand. The pattern of changes in tactile localization after recalibration was consistent with participants aiming at targets on an enlarged hand. This effect was evident also for new, tactile‐only locations that had not been paired with visual stimuli during recalibration. In contrast, distance judgements were not consistently affected by recalibration. The generalization of recalibration to new, non‐trained stimulus sites, but not across tasks and responses, suggests a link of low‐level multisensory processing and map‐like body representations that may, however, be purpose‐specific and not organized as a general‐purpose “body schema”.
Metabolic Regulation of Inflammation: Exploring the Potential Benefits of Itaconate in Autoimmune Disorders
Authors: Luo Yin , Jiang Li‐Yan , Liao Zhe‐Zhen , Wang Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Ya‐Di , Xiao Xin‐Hua
Published: November 2024

Itaconic acid and its metabolites have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in various immune diseases. Originating from the tricarboxylic acid cycle in immune cells, itaconic acid can modulate immune responses, diminish inflammation, and combat oxidative stress. Recent research has uncovered multiple mechanisms through which itaconic acid exerts its effects, including the inhibition of inflammatory cytokine production, activation of anti‐inflammatory pathways, and modulation of immune cell function by regulating cellular metabolism. Cellular actions are influenced by the modulation of metabolic pathways, such as inhibiting succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity or glycolysis, activation of nuclear‐factor‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), boosting cellular defences against oxidative stress, and suppression of immune cell inflammation through the NF‐κB pathway. This comprehensive review discusses the initiation, progression, and mechanisms of action of itaconic acid and its metabolites, highlighting their modulatory effects on various immune cell types. Additionally, it examines their involvement in immune disease like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and autoimmune hepatitis, offering greater understanding for creating new therapies for these ailments.
Comparison of Film Thickness of Restorative Composites Considered for Thermo‐Modified Cementation
Authors: Magne Pascal , Alawie Sam , Magne Michel , Carvalho Marco , Milani Taban
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study proposes an updated method for the film thickness of 21 resin composites used as cements.

Materials and Methods

A load of 30 N was subjected to two glass plates stacked on a heated base to simulate clinically relevant pressure and temperature during the seating of inlays/onlays/veneers. The axial position of the actuator was recorded before and after placing 22.15 mm3 of resin composite between the glass slides. The difference between the two measurements was calculated for each specimen. A total of 18 condensable restoratives, 1 injectable restorative, and 2 resin cements were tested, 5 specimens each (n = 5, N = 105). One‐way ANOVA was performed for both variables and Games‐Howell post hoc test was used for pairwise comparisons.

Results

The film thickness range was 6–200 μm, with the lowest values for restorative composites (AP‐X, Z250, and Herculite XRV Incisal LT with 6–8 μm), followed by Gradia Direct (25 μm) and flowable/injectable composite resins, including designated cements (15–27 μm). Inspiro, Ultradent Transcend Universal, and ENA Hri dentin stood below 50 μm (range 28–49 μm). The other materials (range 81–200 μm) cannot be recommended for thermo‐modified cementation.

Conclusions

The initial viscosity of restorative composites is not an indication of the film thickness when used for thermo‐modified cementation. There is a wide choice of appropriate materials available on the market.

Clinical Significance

Some restorative composites are able to generate very thin films and can be used as cement with numerous advantages when compared to designated flowable or dual‐cure cements.
A Generalized Endogenous Grid Method for Default Risk Models
Authors: JANG YOUNGSOO , LEE SOYOUNG
Published: November 2024

We extend the endogenous grid method to default risk models, which is faster and more accurate than grid search. Our method is 4 to 27 times faster and provides a more accurate bond price function, resulting in substantial differences in the predictions of the canonical sovereign debt model. When applied to Arellano's (2008) model, our approach predicts a standard deviation of the interest rate spread one‐third lower and defaults 3 to 5 times less frequently than does the conventional approach. Finally, we demonstrate that our method is applicable to a broad class of default risk models by characterizing sufficient conditions.
Asset Exemption in Bankruptcy, Access to and Cost of Credit
Authors: ARCA PASQUALINA , ATZENI GIANFRANCO , DEIDDA LUCA G.
Published: November 2024

Under the U.S. personal bankruptcy law, exempt assets are not liquidated following bankruptcy. Entrepreneurs can undo such a protection by posting collateral. We provide a complete characterization of the interplay between asset exemption from liquidation upon default and adverse selection in a competitive credit market. Severe adverse selection induces separation, with safer entrepreneurs choosing loan contracts characterized by high collateral requirements, lower cost of credit, and credit rationing for wealth‐constraints applicants. Irrespective of adverse selection, poor safe entrepreneurs pool as they face too much rationing, otherwise. Higher exemption makes collateral more informative. Evidence from the Survey of Small Business Finances survey supports our theory.
The Impact of Regulatory Stress Tests on Banks' Portfolio Similarity and Implications for Systemic Risk
Authors: BRÄUNING FALK , FILLAT JOSÉ L.
Published: November 2024

Portfolio similarity among the largest U.S. banks has increased since stress testing began in 2012. Using aggregate and detailed loan‐level data, we find that, as a result of stress testing, banks rebalance their portfolio toward similarly diversified portfolios, leading to higher concentration in the aggregate banking system and raising financial stability concerns as systemic risk contributions increase. The rebalancing is driven by a supply contraction in loans that cause larger losses under stress testing, especially by banks with high capital losses in past stress tests. This rebalancing holds conditional on assets that have identical contributions to regulatory capital requirements.
Screening for Frailty According to Rural and Suburban Health Areas in the Context of Adapted Integrated Care for Older People Approach: The FRAGING Study
Authors: Chambonnière Camille , Blanquet Marie , Delorme Cassandra , Flory Laurie , Metz Lore , Duclos Martine
Published: November 2024

Background

The integrated care for older people (ICOPE) program, developed by the World Health Organization, serves as a public health initiative to maintain older adults’ functional abilities and promote healthier aging. Here, we adapted the ICOPE approach to assess overall prevalence of frailty in rural and semi‐urban areas. We also investigated health‐related quality of life and physical activity and sedentary behavior in older people.

Methods

The FRAGING multicenter cohort study was performed on screening days dedicated to older adults (≥65 years) without chronic disease in a rural area (RU) and in a semi‐urban area (SU).

Results

The study included a total of 105 participants: 98.4% of participants were frail, with a mean of 4.3 [SD: 2.5] frailties per participant. RU participants had higher number of frailties (p = 0.02) and a higher percentage of frail participants in the dimensions of health‐related quality of life (p < 0.0001), socioeconomical level (p = 0.008), colorectal cancer screening (p = 0.022), and tetanus booster doses (p = 0.008). Globally, women were less sedentary than men (p = 0.02) and engaged more in low physical activity (LPA) than men (p = 0.01). RU participants engaged more in LPA than SU participants (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The prevalence of frailty is alarmingly underestimated in older adults without chronic disease. This study demonstrated the need to propose appropriate, validated screening tests that consider territorial issues and organization of care delivery. The ICOPE framework serves as a good startpoint for reorganizing person‐centered healthcare pathways.
Soil inoculation changed soil microbial communities, but did not accelerate the decomposition of European Beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria) in Point Reyes National Seashore
Authors: Yang Ben , Spaeth Michael K. , Parsons Lorraine S. , Barberán Albert
Published: November 2024

Legacy effects after the removal of invasive plants present significant challenges to restoration. The pivotal role of soil microbial communities in shaping these legacy effects is increasingly recognized, yet there is a lack of effective methods to mitigate altered microbial communities. In Point Reyes National Seashore (California), although the invaded European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria [L.] Link) was successfully controlled by herbicide treatment, beachgrass litter remained undecomposed for over 5 years, leaving pronounced legacy effects on soil organic matter and microbial community composition. We hypothesized that soil inoculation from uninvaded dune scrub can accelerate the decomposition of beachgrass litter in herbicide‐treated sites by restoring the soil microbial communities and the abundance of microbial decomposers. Three litterbags containing European beachgrass litter or litter from two common shrubs at dune scrub were deployed into each plot to assess the impact of soil inoculation on litter decomposition rates. Our results revealed that soil inoculation, regardless of the inoculation level, did not accelerate the decomposition of European beachgrass. Only the decomposition of bush lupine litter, which had the highest litter quality among three types of litter, was accelerated at the highest inoculation level (approximately 11,880 g/m2). Additionally, soil inoculation increased the richness and compositional homogeneity of soil microbial communities, along with the relative abundances of wood saprotrophic fungi, soil saprotrophic fungi, and lichenized fungi. Although these findings demonstrate the potential of soil inoculation, the cost‐effectiveness of soil inoculation limits its feasibility in accelerating the delayed decomposition of European beachgrass litter in Point Reyes.
Slowing Down or Adapting to Technological Progress? Robot Replacement Risks and Policy Preferences
Authors: Fan Ziteng , Ning Jing , He Alex Jingwei
Published: November 2024

The relationship between automation risk and policy preferences is receiving increasing scholarly attention, but the discussion has yielded mixed and even contradicting results. This study aims to reconcile the results and contribute to the literature by exploring the specific conditions under which citizens prefer government interventions to reduce automation risk and their preferences for specific policy options. Using a survey experimental design in the case of robot installation in China, we find that individuals prefer government interventions that address automation risk in dangerous workplaces vs. those in regular workplaces. Individuals appear to prefer social investment policies such as training programs rather than taxation (e.g., robot tax), regulatory policies (e.g., robot quota), and compensatory policies (e.g., unemployment benefits) when exposed to such risks. We explain that citizens support the government in reducing robot replacement risk only when they perceive the beneficiary groups to be deserving of social protection and that the adopted policies can balance technological progress and unemployment risks.
From One Joint to a Heroin Addict: Exploring Cannabis Narratives in Latvian Society
Authors: Bebre Kristiana
Published: November 2024

This paper reports on cannabis users' perceptions of state authorities' claims about cannabis and of the makers of those claims to investigate the legacy of fear‐based cannabis deterrence policies. The study is conducted in the under‐researched post‐Soviet European Latvia and draws on data from 27 semi‐structured interviews with cannabis users. This paper uses symbolic interactionism and grounded theory to demonstrate how constructed meanings can lead to unintended interactions; namely, the findings indicate that the participants recall that extraordinary claims about cannabis, in which its effects are likened to those of heroin, by authority figures did little to deter them from trying cannabis. Instead, participants construct claim makers as unobjective and lacking knowledge when it comes to cannabis and other illicit substances. Users may translate this lack of knowledge and objectivity into a decreased motivation to interact with state‐funded information or services. The participants link the lack of pragmatism regarding cannabis claims to both the legacy of the Soviet Union's regime, which the current leading experts had been exposed to, and vested interests. In conclusion, given the ever‐increasing digitalization of our societies that provides easy access to alternative information sources, this paper argues that state authorities' claims about cannabis should be limited to pragmatic and evidence‐based information to avoid the estrangement of their target populations.
Geometric algebra for multibody dynamics. Part II: Applications
Authors: Bauchau Olivier
Published: November 2024

In a companion paper, the fundamentals of vector space geometric algebra and plane-based geometric algebra were developed. Plane-based geometric algebra was found to be well suited for describing the kinematics of multibody dynamics: all required operations are performed using algebraic manipulations only and singularities are avoided altogether. The present paper presents applications of plane-based geometric algebra to problems of rigid and flexible multibody dynamics. The formulation of rigid bodies, flexible joints, geometrically exact beams, and lower-pair joints are developed.
Frequency importance for sentence recognition in co-located noise, co-located speech, and spatially separated speech
Authors: Bosen Adam K. , Wasiuk Peter A. , Calandruccio Lauren , Buss Emily
Published: November 2024

Frequency importance functions quantify the contribution of spectral frequencies to perception. Frequency importance has been well-characterized for speech recognition in quiet and steady-state noise. However, it is currently unknown whether frequency importance estimates generalize to more complex conditions such as listening in a multi-talker masker or when targets and maskers are spatially separated. Here, frequency importance was estimated by quantifying associations between local target-to-masker ratios at the output of an auditory filterbank and keyword recognition accuracy for sentences. Unlike traditional methods used to measure frequency importance, this technique estimates frequency importance without modifying the acoustic properties of the target or masker. Frequency importance was compared across sentences in noise and a two-talker masker, as well as sentences in a two-talker masker that was either co-located with or spatially separated from the target. Results indicate that frequency importance depends on masker type and spatial configuration. Frequencies above 5 kHz had lower importance and frequencies between 600 and 1900 Hz had higher importance in the presence of a two-talker masker relative to a noise masker. Spatial separation increased the importance of frequencies between 600 Hz and 5 kHz. Thus, frequency importance functions vary across listening conditions.
Landscape burning facilitated Aboriginal migration into Lutruwita/Tasmania 41,600 years ago
Authors: Adeleye Matthew A. , Hopf Felicitas , Haberle Simon G. , Stannard Georgia L. , Mcwethy David B. , Harris Stephen , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: November 2024

The establishment of Tasmanian Palawa/Pakana communities ~40 thousand years ago (ka) was achieved by the earliest and farthest human migrations from Africa and necessitated migration into high-latitude Southern Hemisphere environments. The scarcity of high-resolution paleoecological records during this period, however, limits our understanding of the environmental effects of this pivotal event, particularly the importance of using fire as a tool for habitat modification. We use two paleoecological records from the Bass Strait islands to identify the initiation of anthropogenic landscape transformation associated with ancestral Palawa/Pakana land use. People were living on the Tasmanian/Lutruwitan peninsula by ~41.6 ka using fire to penetrate and manipulate forests, an approach possibly used in the first migrations across the last glacial landscape of Sahul.
Mitochondrial pyruvate transport regulates presynaptic metabolism and neurotransmission
Authors: Tiwari Anupama , Myeong Jongyun , Hashemiaghdam Arsalan , Stunault Marion I. , Zhang Hao , Niu Xiangfeng , Laramie Marissa A. , Sponagel Jasmin , Shriver Leah P. , Patti Gary J. , Klyachko Vitaly A. , Ashrafi Ghazaleh
Published: November 2024

Glucose has long been considered the primary fuel source for the brain. However, glucose levels fluctuate in the brain during sleep or circuit activity, posing major metabolic stress. Here, we demonstrate that the mammalian brain uses pyruvate as a fuel source, and pyruvate can support neuronal viability in the absence of glucose. Nerve terminals are sites of metabolic vulnerability, and we show that mitochondrial pyruvate uptake is a critical step in oxidative ATP production in hippocampal terminals. We find that the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier is post-translationally modified by lysine acetylation, which, in turn, modulates mitochondrial pyruvate uptake. Our data reveal that the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier regulates distinct steps in neurotransmission, namely, the spatiotemporal pattern of synaptic vesicle release and the efficiency of vesicle retrieval—functions that have profound implications for synaptic plasticity. In summary, we identify pyruvate as a potent neuronal fuel and mitochondrial pyruvate uptake as a critical node for the metabolic control of neurotransmission in hippocampal terminals.
Gas-phase preparation of silylacetylene (SiH
3
CCH) through a counterintuitive ethynyl radical (C
2
H) insertion
Authors: Goettl Shane J. , Vincent Allen , Silva Mateus X. , Yang Zhenghai , Galvão Breno R. L. , Sun Rui , Kaiser Ralf I.
Published: November 2024

Elementary reaction mechanisms constitute a fundamental infrastructure for chemical processes as a whole. However, while these mechanisms are well understood for second-period elements, involving those of the third period and beyond can introduce unorthodox reactivity. Combining crossed molecular beam experiments with electronic structure calculations and molecular dynamics simulations, we provide compelling evidence on an exotic insertion of an unsaturated sigma doublet radical into a silicon-hydrogen bond as observed in the barrierless gas-phase reaction of the D1-ethynyl radical (C
2
D) with silane (SiH
4
). This pathway, which leads to the D1-silylacetylene (SiH
3
CCD) product via atomic hydrogen loss, challenges the prerequisite and fundamental concept that two reactive electrons and an empty orbital are required for the open shell, unsaturated radical reactant to insert into a single bond.
Projected increase in the frequency of extremely active Atlantic hurricane seasons
Authors: Lopez Hosmay , Lee Sang-Ki , West Robert , Kim Dongmin , Foltz Gregory R. , Alaka Ghassan J. , Murakami Hiroyuki
Published: November 2024

Future changes to the year-to-year swings between active and inactive North Atlantic tropical cyclone (TC) seasons have received little attention, yet may have great societal implications in areas prone to hurricane landfalls. This work investigates past and future changes in North Atlantic TC activity, focusing on interannual variability and evaluating the contributions from anthropogenic forcing. We show that interannual variability of Atlantic TC activity has already increased, evidenced by an increase in the occurrence of both extremely active and inactive TC seasons. TC-resolving general circulation models project a 36% increase in the variance of North Atlantic TC activity, measured by accumulated cyclone energy, by the middle of the 21st century. These changes are the result of increased variability in vertical wind shear and atmospheric stability, in response to enhanced Pacific-to-Atlantic interbasin sea surface temperature variations. Robust anthropogenic-forced intensification in the variability of Atlantic TC activity will continue in the future, with important implications for emergency planning and societal preparedness.