bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with deep and infected diabetes-related foot ulcers
Authors: Lan Nick S. R. , Hiew Jonathan , Ferreira Ivana , Ritter J. Carsten , Manning Laurens , Fegan P. Gerry , Dwivedi Girish , Hamilton Emma J.
Published: November 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Diabetes-related foot ulceration (DFU) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Inflammation and infection are mediators of CVD, which may be important in DFU.

Methods

Prospectively collected data from patients attending a multidisciplinary DFU service were analysed. A deep ulcer was defined as one that reached muscle, tendon or deeper structures. Patients were categorised into four DFU groups: not deep and no infection (D−/I−), not deep but infected (D−/I+), deep with no infection (D+/I−) or deep with infection (D+/I+). Incident major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were defined as hospitalisation for myocardial infarction, stroke or transient ischaemic attack, or heart failure. Survival analyses were performed using the logrank test and multivariate Cox regression.

Results

Of 513 patients, 241 (47.0%) were in the D−/I− group, 110 (21.4%) were in the D−/I+ group, 35 (6.8%) were in the D+/I− group and 127 (24.8%) were in the D+/I+ group. MACE or all-cause mortality occurred in 75 patients (14.6%), and MACE alone occurred in 46 patients (9.0%) after median follow-up of 381 days (IQR 220–551) and 404 days (IQR 228–576), respectively. Infection was associated with significantly higher MACE or all-cause mortality (21.5% vs 8.7%; p<0.001) and MACE alone (13.5% vs 5.1%; p=0.003). MACE or all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the D+/I+ group (D−/I− 7.9%; D−/I+ 15.5%; D+/I− 14.3%; D+/I+ 26.8%; p<0.001), as was MACE alone (D−/I− 5.0%; D−/I+ 10.9%; D+/I− 5.7%; D+/I+ 15.7%; p=0.017). Infection and a deep ulcer were independent predictors of adverse outcomes.

Conclusions/interpretation

Deep and/or infected DFUs are associated with increased cardiovascular risk compared with DFUs that are not deep or infected. These findings provide a potential mechanistic explanation that requires investigation.

Graphical Abstract
Tuning the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of lignin by physicochemical modification during sequential acid precipitation from Kraft black liquor
Authors: Eugenio María E. , García-Fuentevilla Luisa , Martín-Sampedro Raquel , Santos José I. , Wicklein Bernd , ibarra David
Published: November 2024

Turning lignin from black liquor waste into value-added bioactive agents is one of the possible routes for improving the sustainability and profitability of lignocellulosic industry. However, due to chemical and structural variability of lignin, it is necessary to isolate specific lignin fractions from black liquor with the purpose to achieve samples with unique chemical and structural characteristics and therefore, specific biological activities. In this study, poplar lignin fractions isolated from Kraft black liquor by sequential acid precipitation at pH´s 7.5, 5 and 2.5 (denoted as P-7.5, P-5 and P-2.5) were characterized according to their physicochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. In general, lignin fractions displayed a wide elimination of lateral chains (aryl-β ether and C–C) and, therefore a high phenolic content and low molecular weight, as the pH sequential precipitation was decreased from 7.5 to 2.5. Moreover, thermal analysis revealed that the P-7.5 lignin fraction showed higher thermal stability than P-2.5 and P-5. In terms of antioxidant activity, the P-7.5 lignin fraction, with a higher S/G ratio and a less oxidized structure compared to P-5 and P-2.5, exhibited higher antioxidant activity. In addition, lower antibacterial effect was observed for all lignin fractions against Escherichia coli compared to that obtained against Staphylococcus aureus. Among them, the P-2.5 and P-5 fractions, with higher phenolic content and lower molecular weight values than P-7.5, showed a greater antibacterial effect against S. aureus.
Subsemigroup of $$T_n$$ assigned to a fixed point free permutation
Authors: Wójcik Klaudiusz
Published: November 2024

Assume that $$T_n$$

T
n

is the full transformation semigroup of $$X=\{1,\ldots ,n\}$$

X
=
{
1
,
…
,
n
}

and $$S_n\subset T_n$$

S
n

⊂

T
n

is the symmetric group. For $$\sigma \in S_n$$

σ
∈

S
n

and $$i\in X$$

i
∈
X

we define $$f_{i,\sigma }\in T_n$$

f

i
,
σ

∈

T
n

by $$\begin{aligned} f_{i,\sigma }(i)=\sigma (i),\ \text {and} \ f_{i,\sigma }(j)=j\ \text {for}\ j\ne i. \end{aligned}$$

f

i
,
σ

(
i
)

=
σ

(
i
)

,

and

f

i
,
σ

(
j
)

=
j

for

j
≠
i
.

Let S be the subsemigroup of $$T_n$$

T
n

generated by idempotents $$\big \{f_{1,\sigma }, \ldots , f_{n,\sigma }\big \}$$

{

f

1
,
σ

,
…
,

f

n
,
σ

}

. Let $$\alpha \in S$$

α
∈
S

. We study the sequence $$({\text {card}} F(\alpha ^k))_{k\in {\mathbb {N}}}$$

(
card
F

(

α
k

)

)

k
∈
N

, where $$F(\alpha ^k)$$

F
(

α
k

)

is the set of fixed points of $$\alpha ^k$$

α
k

. We will focus on the case $$\sigma =(1\; 2\; \ldots \; n)$$

σ
=
(
1

2

…

n
)

. Our motivation comes from a geometric method for detecting chaotic dynamics based on the Ważewski retract principle.
From Condorcet’s paradox to Arrow: yet another simple proof of the impossibility theorem
Authors: D’Antoni Massimo
Published: November 2024

Condorcet exposed a limitation of majority-based pairwise comparison by showing that, for specific preference profiles over three alternatives, it leads to a contradiction. Arrow’s theorem is often introduced as a generalization of this finding. A novel formulation of the proof is presented that strictly adheres to this logic, establishing that for any non-dictatorial social choice rule, a contradiction-generating preference profile always exists and can be identified using a straightforward procedure.
Belonging in dual roles: exploring professional identity formation among disabled healthcare students and clinicians
Authors: Mayer Yael , Nimmon Laura , Shalev Michal , Gross Elisabeth , Bulk Laura Yvonne , Battalova Alfiya , Krupa Terry , Jarus Tal
Published: November 2024

The development of a robust professional identity is a pivotal aspect of every healthcare professional’s educational journey. Critical social perspectives are increasingly influencing the examination of professional identity formation within healthcare professions. While understanding how disabled students and practitioners integrate a disability identity into their professional identity is crucial, we have limited knowledge about the actual formation of their professional identity. This study aims to investigate how disabled students and clinicians in healthcare professions actively shape their professional identity during their educational and professional journeys. We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with 27 students and 29 clinicians, conducting up to three interviews per participant over a year, resulting in 124 interviews. Participants represented five healthcare professions: medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and social work. Employing a constructivist grounded theory approach, our data analysis revealed two prominent dimensions: (a) The contextualization of identity formation processes and (b) The identity navigation dimension in which the professional identity and disability identity are explored. This emerging model sheds light on the dynamic processes involved in identity formation, emphasizing the significance of a supportive environment for disabled students and practitioners. Such an environment fosters the negotiation of both professional and disability identities. Moreover, this study recognizes the importance of a re-examination of the concepts of professionalism and professional identity in healthcare professions. In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of understanding and supporting the multifaceted identity formation processes among disabled individuals within healthcare professions.
Racial/ethnic differences in risk factors for non-cardia gastric cancer: an analysis of the Multiethnic Cohort (MEC) Study
Authors: Adams Alexandra , Gandhi Atish , Friedmann Patricia , Sarkar Srawani , Rana Brijesh , Epplein Meira , Wilkens Lynne , Huang Brian Z. , In Haejin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Gastric cancer (GC) incidence rates show notable differences by racial/ethnic groups in the US. We sought to determine whether stratification by race/ethnicity would reveal unique risk factors for development of non-cardia gastric cancer (NCGC) for US population.

Methods

Analysis included 1,112 incident cases of NCGC and 190,883 controls from the Multiethnic Cohort Study, a prospective US cohort study that recruited individuals living in Hawaii and California, aged 45–75 years from 5 races/ethnicities. Descriptive analysis and Cox regression models examined the association of risk factors for GC and calculate hazard ratios for each race/ethnicity, adjusting for sociodemographic and dietary variables.

Results

Increasing age and male sex were risk factors for NCGC for most race/ethnicities. Higher risk was associated with: GC family history for Latino and Japanese American individuals [HRs range from 1.75 to 1.98]; foreign-born for Japanese American individuals [HR: 1.52, 95% CI 1.11–2.09]; lower education for African American, Japanese American, and Native Hawaiian individuals [HRs range from 1.30 to 1.74]; daily alcohol consumption for African American individuals[HR: 1.56, 95% CI 1.04–2.35]; current smoking for Latino and Japanese American individuals [HRs range from 1.89 to 1.94]; sodium consumption in the highest quartile for White individuals [HR: 2.55, 95% CI 1.23–5.26] compared to the lowest quartile; fruit consumption in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th highest quartile for Native Hawaiian individuals [HRs range from 2.19 to 2.60] compared to the lowest quartile; diabetes for African American individuals [HR: 1.79, 95% CI 1.21–2.64]; and gastric/duodenal ulcers for Native Hawaiian individuals [HR: 1.82, 95% CI 1.04–3.18].

Conclusion

Analyses by racial/ethnic group revealed differing risk factors for NCGC. Increased knowledge of the varying pathways to GC can support personalized GC prevention strategies and risk stratification tools for early detection.
Use of pomegranate peel extract for preparation of UV-absorbing and antimicrobial nitrocellulose coating for wood finishing
Authors: Hassan Mohammad , Awaad Ahmed , Abou-Elseoud Wafaa , Hassan Enas
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial and UV-resistant coatings are important finishing materials for making specialty wood products. In the current work, anti-bacterial and UV-resistant coatings were prepared from nitrocellulose (NC) and pomegranate peel extract (PGE). Different ratios of PGE were added to NC solution (up to 10 wt.% of NC) and the effect of PGE on the viscosity of NC solution, optical, UV-absorption, mechanical, moisture sorption, and antibacterial properties of NC films was studied. Finally, the NC/PGE solution with the appropriate antibacterial activity was sprayed onto the surface of beechwood and its surface was evaluated and compared to neat NC coating regarding gloss, color, change in color due to daylight and thermal aging, and wettability by water. The results showed that PGE reduced the viscosity of NC solution even at low concentrations. All the NC/PGE films had good homogeneity, transparency, UV light absorption, film flexibility, and good antibacterial properties against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria at PGE content 6% or higher. PGE moderately increased the moisture sorption of NC films at high relative humidity (98%). Beechwood was sprayed with NC/8% PGE solution in ethyl acetate; the presence of PGE in NC didn’t affect the visual appearance or light indices (L, a, and b) of the coated wood when compared to the coating with neat NC. The NC/8%PGE coating had high stability against daylight aging while there was no difference in color change between the wood coated with NC and NC/8%PGE after thermal aging. The study showed the potential of PGE as a renewable and safe anti-bacterial and UV-resistant additive for nitrocellulose lacquers used in furniture.

Graphical abstract
Group Motivational Interviewing for Adolescents at Risk of Internet Gaming Disorder: A Mixed-Methods Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Tse Nick , Siu Andrew , Tsang Sharon , Jensen Mark P.
Published: November 2024

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) among adolescents is a widespread public health issue, with far-reaching negative impacts on adolescents’ health and relationships with their families. This study evaluated the preliminary outcomes of a two-session Group Motivational Interviewing (GMI) programme designed to address the risk of IGD among students across primary, secondary, and university levels. Conducted in-person during short periods of time when schools were open during the COVID pandemic, the programme used experiential activities and guided discussions to (1) facilitate participants’ reflection on time management, life goals, and gaming behaviours, and (2) cultivate readiness for change. Fifty-five students, aged 9 to 21, participated in the study, and outcomes were evaluated using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data tracked changes in severity of IGD symptoms, motivation for change, and time consumption on gaming, studying, and outdoor activities. The qualitative component involved analysing goal-setting worksheets to understand participants’ motivations and potential barriers to change. Intervention fidelity was monitored using a modified checklist from the Assessment of Motivational Interviewing Groups– Observer Scale. Results revealed significant pre- to post-treatment reductions in gaming time and enhancements in motivation for change, but there was no significant change in the risks of IGD from baseline to post-treatment or three-month follow-up. Changes in the Contemplation Ladder indicated a sustained increase in motivation for change over the three-month follow-up. Furthermore, qualitative analysis revealed academic study as a crucial factor, serving both as a goal (improving academic results) and a barrier (alleviating academic stress) for changes in gaming behaviour. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the two-session GMI programme is a feasible and potentially effective approach to engage students in reflecting on their gaming habits and promoting readiness for change. These preliminary results also provide support for conducting a full clinical trial on the effectiveness of the programme.
Barriers and enablers of life cycle assessment in small and medium enterprises: a systematic review
Authors: Gómez-Garza Rodrigo , Güereca Leonor Patricia , Padilla-Rivera Alejandro , Ibarra Alonso Aguilar
Published: November 2024

Businesses are facing increasing pressure from multiple stakeholders to integrate sustainability into their practices and business models. Although Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) represent at least 90% of businesses worldwide and contribute approximately 60% of environmental impacts, assessing and improving their sustainability performance is not a priority for them. SMEs can address sustainability issues through the application of the different Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approaches. LCA focuses solely on the environment; however, other forms, such as social, costing, sustainability, and organizational LCA, enable practitioners to assess impacts across the entire life cycle of the studied system, each with different scopes and approaches. However, LCA remains in the domain of large companies. This article aims to identify the main barriers and enablers of LCA in SMEs for wider use as a tool to improve sustainability performance. Through a systematic review of the scientific literature on LCA among SMEs applying the Standardized Technique for Assessing and Reporting Reviews of LCA data, a sample of 61 articles provides a 20-year history. Our results characterize the application of LCA in SMEs through six main aspects. Our main conclusions identify three main barriers to the application of LCA among SMEs: lack of trained personnel, lack of data, and high costs. To overcome these barriers, we found that narrowing down the scope using simplified methods in clusters can increase the use of LCA among SMEs. A simplified SME cluster-elaborated LCA can be used to qualitatively identify sustainability hotspots, develop suitable strategies to improve sustainability performance, and respond to market requests.
A lexical comparison of the public good of higher education: concepts, contextual underpinnings and implications, focusing on Japanese, Chinese and English
Authors: Yang Lili , Chen Lilan
Published: November 2024

While it is generally agreed that higher education is a public good and produces public goods, it remains unclear what this means. An important reason for the unclarity is the conceptual ambiguity and cultural nuances of the concept of the public good in higher education. Coupled with the Western dominance of discourse in higher education and language challenges in translation, the ambiguity and nuances further result in challenges for studies that explore and compare the public good of higher education across contexts. This paper employs a lexical comparison approach to address these challenges, all of which have been encountered by the comparative research project that leads to this Special Issue. Taking Japanese, Chinese and English as examples, it identifies key terms in the three languages, reveals contextual underpinnings of the key terms and the cultural distance between the terms, and discusses the implications of the lexical comparison. The paper argues that this lexical comparison has been effective in this particular analysis and the comparative research project, and has the potential to contribute to comparisons of other higher education topics involving multiple languages.
Investigation of the electrochemical conversion of brighteners during nickel electrodeposition, Part 1: chemical analysis by mass spectrometry
Authors: Schmidt Udo , Wilke Marcus , Leimbach Martin , Bund Andreas
Published: November 2024

Results of an investigation of the action of various pyridinic and acetylenic brighteners during the electrodeposition of nickel are reported here. The focus was on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the individual compounds 1-(3-sulphopropyl)-pyridinium betaine (PPS) and sulphopropylated 2-butyne-1,4-diol (HBOPS) and their reaction products. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a mass spectrometric detector (HPLC-MS) and a diode array detector in the UV range (HPLC-UV) were used to examine the various additives and the cathodic reaction products. PPS is almost completely hydrogenated to the piperidine compound (3-piperidin-1-yl-propane-1-sulphonate, PIPS) at the catalytically active nickel electrode; as intermediate products, only tetrahydrogenated pyridine (THPPS) compounds occur in the solution, in low concentrations. The entire hydrogenation chain takes place on the surface; partially hydrogenated products are either not desorbed at all or only desorbed in small quantities. Further by-products are dimers and after ring cleavage a pentylamine derivative {3-(pentylamino)-1-propanesulphonic acid, PAPS}. Via the olefinic intermediate stage, the butynediol compound (HBOPS) reacts to become sulphopropylated butanediol. After elimination of water, this forms butanoxy-propanesulphonate in a further hydrogenation step.

Graphical Abstract
The Role of Stewards of Trust in Facilitating Trust in Science: A Multistakeholder View
Authors: Varda Christiana , Iordanou Kalypso , Antoniou Josephina , Barrios Mariano Martín Zamorano , Yalaz Evren , Gurzawska Agata , Szüdi Gábor , Bartar Pamela , Häberlein Lisa
Published: November 2024

Trust in science post-Covid appears to be a complex matter. On the one hand, the COVID-19 pandemic added value to the epistemic trustworthiness of scientific opinion and its potential to drive evidence-based policies, while it also spurred scientific distrust and societal polarization (e.g., vaccines), especially on social media. In this work we sought to understand the ways in which trust in science might be bolstered by adopting a multistakeholder perspective. This objective was achieved by considering stakeholders’ views on (a) how perceived key actors affect trust in science, and (b) what proposed actions can be taken by each actor identified. Data were collected using 16 focus groups and 10 individual interviews across different European contexts with general public (n = 66), journalists (n = 23) and scientists (n = 35), and were analysed using thematic analysis. Regarding how perceived key actors affect trust in science, participants viewed policymakers, media, scientific and social media actors as occupying a dual function (facilitators and hinderers of trust in science), and pointed to the value of multi-actor collaboration. Regarding what actions should be taken for enhancing trust in science, participants indicated the value of enhancing understanding of scientific integrity and practices, through science literacy and science communication, and also pointed to social media platform regulation. Implications stemming from the data are discussed, considering how multiple identified stewards of trust can contribute to an ecosystem of trust.
Instance Segmentation XXL-CT Challenge of a Historic Airplane
Authors: Gruber Roland , Engster Johann Christopher , Michen Markus , Blum Nele , Stille Maik , Gerth Stefan , Wittenberg Thomas
Published: November 2024

Instance segmentation of compound objects in XXL-CT imagery poses a unique challenge in non-destructive testing. This complexity arises from the lack of known reference segmentation labels, limited applicable segmentation tools, as well as partially degraded image quality. To asses recent advancements in the field of machine learning-based image segmentation, the ‘Instance Segmentation XXL-CT Challenge of a Historic Airplane’ was conducted. The challenge aimed to explore automatic or interactive instance segmentation methods for an efficient delineation of the different aircraft components, such as screws, rivets, metal sheets or pressure tubes. We report the organization and outcome of this challenge and describe the capabilities and limitations of the submitted segmentation methods.
Agricultural irrigation development in Castilla y León (Spain): driving forces and outcomes for landscape and sustainability in the 21st century
Authors: Frey Fabienne , Mohr Franziska , Ruiz‐Aragón Virginia , Akinyemi Felicia O. , Bürgi Matthias
Published: November 2024

Context

Agriculture relies on irrigation in many parts of the world, and the need for irrigation is increasing due to rising demands for agricultural products and climate change-induced alterations in rainfall patterns. However, irrigated agriculture has been found to damage ecosystems and threaten landscape sustainability.

Objectives

Against this background, there has been a recent development towards large-scale irrigation in Spain. The aim of this study is to understand this development at the landscape level and its impact in the context of landscape sustainability.

Methods

We focused on two study sites in Castilla y León using a mixed-methods approach. We studied driving forces, landscape changes, and sustainability outcomes through document analysis, interviews, and aerial photograph analysis.

Results

The development of a landscape-level underground pipe network took place at one study site and is planned for the second study site. Interviewees perceived institutional and social driving forces as particularly influential and technological driving forces as less influential. Political and economic driving forces were often interlinked. The irrigation development tied to land consolidation led to landscape changes, such as the removal of trees and increases in field size. Thus, in terms of environmental sustainability, trade-offs were found, while social sustainability outcomes were mainly positive. The impact on farmers’ economic security varied.

Conclusions

For further landscape-level irrigation developments, we recommend integrating preserving seminatural habitats and the structural diversity of the agricultural landscape in planning processes. We also recommend a shift towards more water efficient crops, evapotranspiration management, and a new funding scheme for farmers to offset rising electricity costs.
DArTseq genotyping facilitates identification of Aegilops biuncialis chromatin introgressed into bread wheat Mv9kr1
Authors: Gaál Eszter , Farkas András , Türkösi Edina , Kruppa Klaudia , Szakács Éva , Szőke-Pázsi Kitti , Kovács Péter , Kalapos Balázs , Darkó Éva , Said Mahmoud , Lampar Adam , Ivanizs László , Valárik Miroslav , Doležel Jaroslav , Molnár István
Published: November 2024

Wild wheat relative Aegilops biuncialis offers valuable traits for crop improvement through interspecific hybridization. However, gene transfer from Aegilops has been hampered by difficulties in detecting introgressed Ub- and Mb-genome chromatin in the wheat background at high resolution. The present study applied DArTseq technology to genotype two backcrossed populations (BC382, BC642) derived from crosses of wheat line Mv9kr1 with Ae. biuncialis accession, MvGB382 (early flowering and drought-tolerant) and MvGB642 (leaf rust-resistant). A total of 11,952 Aegilops-specific Silico-DArT markers and 8,998 wheat-specific markers were identified. Of these, 7,686 markers were assigned to Ub-genome chromosomes and 4,266 to Mb-genome chromosomes and were ordered using chromosome scale reference assemblies of hexaploid wheat and Ae. umbellulata. Ub-genome chromatin was detected in 5.7% of BC382 and 22.7% of BC642 lines, while 88.5% of BC382 and 84% of BC642 lines contained Mb-genome chromatin, predominantly the chromosomes 4Mb and 5Mb. The presence of alien chromatin was confirmed by microscopic analysis of mitotic metaphase cells using GISH and FISH, which allowed precise determination of the size and position of the introgression events. New Mv9kr1-Ae. biuncialis MvGB382 4Mb and 5Mb disomic addition lines together with a 5DS.5DL-5MbL recombination were identified. A possible effect of the 5MbL distal region on seed length has also been observed. Moreover, previously developed Mv9kr1-MvGB642 introgression lines were more precisely characterized. The newly developed cytogenetic stocks represent valuable genetic resources for wheat improvement, highlighting the importance of utilizing diverse genetic materials to enhance wheat breeding strategies.
Increasing support for economic freedom: responses in a representative sample of US adults
Authors: Krouse Michael D. , Zak Paul J.
Published: November 2024

The relationship between economic freedom and improvements in social and economic outcomes is well-documented. Yet, increasing support for government control of voluntary exchange has arisen in the US and many other countries. The present study analyzed whether videos describing human flourishing would influence support for economic freedom. In Study 1, a ‘‘brain as predictor’’ approach measured the neurologic responses of participants (N = 64) to a library of videos in order identify the videos most likely to influence people's attitudes. Study 2 then sent two videos to a representative sample of US adults (N = 1212) and assessed support for economic freedom compared to a no-video control group. The analysis first identified demographic categories that had statistically low support for economic freedom (Californians, those with low incomes, Democrats, young adults, individuals without a college education, people receiving substantial government support, and women) as targets for influence. Two different videos increased support for economic freedom between 5 and 10% among Californians and among those receiving government aid. A feature importance analysis was used to rank the demographic factors affecting support for economic freedom, identifying those receiving government aid as the group for whom future messaging would have the largest impact.
Riding the merger wave: the gatekeeping role of auditors
Authors: Carnes Robert
Published: November 2024

I investigate whether auditors engage in greater monitoring of acquirers during industry merger waves. Merger waves are periods of industry transformation (i.e., disruption) that are accompanied by greater uncertainty, limited internal and external corporate monitoring, and poorer acquisition performance. These factors threaten the quality of acquirers’ financial reports. I test whether auditors respond to these periods by increasing their effort, which improves audit quality, and by resigning from high-risk engagements to reduce their portfolio risk. For in-wave audits, I find that audit fees are higher, financial statements are less likely to be materially misstated, auditors are more likely to timely identify and report internal control deficiencies, and auditor resignations are higher. Overall, these findings are consistent with auditors adapting to merger waves and providing higher-quality corporate monitoring within the scope of their influence. Importantly, this study provides insights that broaden our understanding of auditing and M&A transactions.
Development of the organizational animalistic dehumanization scale
Authors: Cheung Francis
Published: November 2024

This study reports the development of a new organizational animalistic dehumanization scale. Two longitudinal studies were conducted to validate the scale. In Study 1, 667 American participants participated in an online survey at Time (1) Two factors, namely organizational animalistic dehumanization (OAS) and organizational subservience and loyalty (OSL), were extracted from the exploratory factor analysis (EFA). At Time 2, 574 participants were included. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported the two-factor model. The new scale demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency, test-retest reliability, convergence, and predictive validity. Study 2 reported the validation study of the Chinese-translated organizational animalistic dehumanization scale. 420 Chinese working adults in Hong Kong were recruited and matched their responses in the two-wave surveys. In line with Study 1, a two-factor solution was obtained and supported in the EFA and CFA. The translated scale also demonstrated good psychometric properties, including internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Finally, the animalistic dehumanization scales at Time 1 correlated significantly with criterion variables measured at Time (2) Limitations and implications were discussed.
Familiengrundschulzentren – Problemkonstruktionen, Folgen- und Wirkungserwartungen von pädagogischen Leitungskräften
Authors: Hermstein Björn , Lünenschloß Johannes , Sauerwein Markus N.
Published: November 2024

Programme zur Förderung von Familienbildung an Kindertageseinrichtungen und Grundschulen zeugen von der wahrgenommenen Bedeutung zusammenwirkender gesellschaftlicher Sozialisationsinstanzen zugunsten eines kindgerechten Aufwachsens und zielen auf die Reduzierung sozialer Ungleichheiten. Für die Familiengrundschulzentren in NRW ist abseits offizieller Programmtheorien bisher gänzlich ungeklärt, von welchen Problemkonstruktionen und Folgenerwartungen in der (sozial-)pädagogischen Praxis ausgegangen wird. Auf Basis einer Interviewstudie an fünf Familiengrundschulzentren zeigt der Beitrag, dass die habitusvermittelte Distanz zu gesellschaftlichen Institutionen aus Bildung und Kultur, sprachliche Schwierigkeiten sowie Defizite in der Erziehungs- und Sozialkompetenz von den Leitungskräften als zentrale, von Familiengrundschulzentren zu adressierende, soziale Probleme identifiziert werden. Daneben wird deutlich, dass sich die mit der Eingliederung familienbezogener Bildungsangebote an Schulen assoziierten Folgenerwartungen allenfalls indirekt auf die sozialen Probleme selbst beziehen, sondern vielmehr die Stabilisierung der Institution Schule fokussieren.
Application of the GIS methods along with measured parameters to identify the NH4+ origin in the Hranice Karst (Czech Republic)
Authors: Geršl Milan , Sedláček Jozef , Oppeltová Petra , Ulrich Ondřej , Kohoutková Kristýna , Vlček Vítězslav , Klepárník Radim , Babák Vladimír
Published: November 2024

The study aims to determine the source of NH4+ ions in the mineral waters of the Hranice Karst. The study area is located in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, Europe. The area is known mainly for its carbon dioxide of deep origin; the gas was the factor that enabled the formation of hypogene karst, in the Palaeozoic limestones, as well as warm mineral waters. The limestones of the area are covered by Neogene (Miocene) sediments of variable thickness and lithology. Recurrent sampling was done at 36 sites. A total of 96 surface water samples, 65 borehole water samples and 96 karst water samples were assessed. Major anions, cations and the content of nitrogen and its forms were determined for all water samples. The soil types were characterised by a field pedological survey. The normalised difference vegetation index was calculated in QGIS and vegetation vitality was evaluated. Since places with remarkably low vegetation index were found to be linked to the occurrence of Miocene sandstones, they represent points of rather fast entry of rainwater into the ground. As the presence of carbon dioxide creates an anoxic setting underground, the entering nitrates are transformed into NH4+ ions. This mechanism of transformation within the nitrogen cycle explains the presence of NH4+ ions in areas with elevated CO2.
Electrode/Electrolyte Optimization-Induced Double-Layered Architecture for High-Performance Aqueous Zinc-(Dual) Halogen Batteries
Authors: Zhou Chengwang , Ding Zhezheng , Ying Shengzhe , Jiang Hao , Wang Yan , Fang Timing , Zhang You , Sun Bing , Tang Xiao , Liu Xiaomin
Published: November 2024

Aqueous zinc-halogen batteries are promising candidates for large-scale energy storage due to their abundant resources, intrinsic safety, and high theoretical capacity. Nevertheless, the uncontrollable zinc dendrite growth and spontaneous shuttle effect of active species have prohibited their practical implementation. Herein, a double-layered protective film based on zinc-ethylenediamine tetramethylene phosphonic acid (ZEA) artificial film and ZnF2-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer has been successfully fabricated on the zinc metal anode via electrode/electrolyte synergistic optimization. The ZEA-based artificial film shows strong affinity for the ZnF2-rich SEI layer, therefore effectively suppressing the SEI breakage and facilitating the construction of double-layered protective film on the zinc metal anode. Such double-layered architecture not only modulates Zn2+ flux and suppresses the zinc dendrite growth, but also blocks the direct contact between the metal anode and electrolyte, thus mitigating the corrosion from the active species. When employing optimized metal anodes and electrolytes, the as-developed zinc-(dual) halogen batteries present high areal capacity and satisfactory cycling stability. This work provides a new avenue for developing aqueous zinc-(dual) halogen batteries.
Study on Characterization of SrO Aerosols Generated by Optimized Thermal Plasma Torch Aerosol Generator
Authors: Kumar Amit , Narayanam Sujatha Pavan , Pujala Usha
Published: November 2024

Plasma Torch Aerosol Generation System (PTAGS) has been employed to generate nano aerosols with desirable characteristics. The operational parameters of PTAGS installed in the aerosol test facility have been optimized, and aerosols are generated using non-radioactive SrO2 powder. The current-voltage characteristics, electro-thermal efficiency and torch power are studied as a function of the flow rate of the plasma-generating gas (mixture of argon and nitrogen) and the arc current of the plasma torch. The relation of arc characteristics is determined using the Nottingham formulation. Based on this, torch parameters evolved and optimized as 20 kW power, 70% electro-thermal efficiency, 25 L min− 1 flow rate of plasma forming gas, 5 mg min− 1 powder feed rate and for 4–5 min torch operation towards the generation of SrO nano aerosols to achieve 1012 m− 3 and ~ 25 mg m− 3 for the count and mass concentration of aerosol respectively. The initial size distribution of the aerosols is in the few tens of nanometre range (10–40 nm) with a mean diameter of 26 nm (σg = 1.45). Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis revealed that the morphology of nano aerosols was nearly spherical and the formation of SrO nanoparticles. A set of PTAGS operational parameters has been standardized to perform further experiments related to reactor safety analysis. PTAGS shall be tuned for aerosol generation in a large facility to achieve the characteristics equivalent to reactor accidental conditions.
Quantifying Specific and Systemic Factors in the Black-White Wealth Gap in the United States
Authors: Habibi Hamidreza , Liu Rongchen , Respighi Grasso Gonzalo Martin , Sanyal Anirban , Singh Nirvikar
Published: November 2024

This paper provides a new quantitative analysis of the role of specific and systemic factors in racial wealth disparities in the United States. Specific or individual factors include characteristics such as education, occupation, homeownership, and inheritance. Systemic factors can be reflected in unexplained racial differences, or by considering the effect of differences in characteristics when taken together. Utilizing the 2016 Survey of Consumer Finances and different approaches to estimating the effects of various characteristics, we argue that measured individual characteristics are limited in their ability to explain much of the Black-White wealth gap in the US. Quantile regressions find that the racial wealth gap exists within comparable segments of the wealth distribution, and also suggest that race matters, beyond measured characteristics.
A research on China–Russia arms control cooperation in outer space: achievement, challenge, and prospect
Authors: Liu Ying
Published: November 2024

Since entering the twenty-first century, advancements in space technology have accelerated the exploration and utilization of outer space, leading to significant developments in various fields of human society. However, this progression has also led to the acceleration of the militarization and weaponization of outer space, escalating the arms race and contributing to environmental pollution in outer space. Despite opposition from the US and other countries, China and Russia have made strides in cooperating on outer space arms control to prevent further militarization and arms race. In this new era of unprecedented changes unseen in a century, outer space faces increasingly serious security threats. Guided by the principle of a global community of shared future, China and Russia must continue to strengthen cooperation within the framework of multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations. They must work together to promote international negotiations in the field of outer space arms control and reach international legal documents on outer space security. Furthermore, they must make due contributions to promoting global security governance and the peaceful development of human society.
Preoperative anemia is associated with increased length of stay in adult spinal deformity surgery: evaluation of a large single-center patient cohort and future suggestions for patient optimization
Authors: Dagli Mert Marcel , Wathen Connor A. , Golubovsky Joshua L. , Ghenbot Yohannes , Arena John D. , Santangelo Gabrielle , Heintz Jonathan , Ali Zarina S. , Welch William C. , Yoon Jang W. , Arlet Vincent , Ozturk Ali K.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the relationship of preoperative hemoglobin levels as an independent prognostic factor for hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing surgery for adult spinal deformity (ASD), with the intent of determining whether there exists a correlation and enhancing patient preoperative optimization protocols.

Methods

The authors reviewed consecutive patients who underwent elective thoracolumbosacral posterior spinal fusion (PSF) involving six or more vertebrae for ASD from January 1, 2013, to December 13, 2021, with a minimum follow-up period of two years. This study primarily investigated the association of preoperative hemoglobin levels with hospital and ICU LOS. To analyze the data, both unadjusted and adjusted generalized linear models (GLM), incorporating cubic splines for non-linear variables, were applied.

Results

A total of 598 patients were included. GLMs for hospital and ICU LOS demonstrated nonlinear relationships with preoperative hemoglobin levels. Specifically, hospital LOS decreased with increasing preoperative hemoglobin until a significance threshold of 13.5 g/dl. Similarly, ICU LOS significantly decreased with increasing preoperative hemoglobin until 13.0 g/dl. Lower preoperative hemoglobin was associated with more perioperative transfusions, less likely discharge to home, and greater risk of reoperation.

Conclusions

Preoperative anemia is an independent non-linear risk factor that significantly affects LOS, disposition, and outcomes after surgery for ASD. These findings advocate for a systemic preoperative approach and highlight the need for future research to improve postoperative outcomes and reduce hospital resource utilization.

Level of evidence

IV.
Towards carbon neutrality: asymmetric impact of financial development and digitalization on carbon dioxide emissions in Mediterranean countries
Authors: Mehta Dhyani
Published: November 2024

The current research investigates the impact of financial development, digitalization, green trade, manufacturing, and national income on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of six Mediterranean countries (MEDIT-6). The study uses a nonlinear panel quantile regression model with panel data of MEDIT-6 countries from 1994 to 2022. The study asserts that higher financial development will reduce CO2 emissions for MEDIT-6 countries, as it provides more financing options to invest in green energy and potentially curb excessive energy consumption which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. The study also provides evidence that digitalization in MEDIT-6 countries has led to dematerialization, thereby reducing CO2 emissions. Digitalization makes trade and commerce platforms more efficient by facilitating the smooth flow of information and enhancing the efficiency of production processes. The positive relationship between manufacturing and national income and CO2 emissions exhibits a U-shaped pattern, which supports the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The study shows how the MEDIT-6 countries have been successful in promoting financial development and digitalization, which helps reduce their CO2 emissions. However, it also raises concerns for policymakers as promoting developmental activities such as manufacturing is inevitable, but it comes with environmental challenges such as higher CO2 emissions. The current study contributes to the reservoir of existing literature by providing fresh evidence from the Mediterranean region on the impact of financial development and digitalization on CO2 emissions.

Graphical Abstract
Unlocking the potential of precision agriculture for sustainable farming
Authors: Mgendi George
Published: November 2024

Precision agriculture, a transformative farming approach, has gained prominence due to advancements in digital technologies. This paper explores the multifaceted landscape of precision agriculture, focusing on its tangible benefits, challenges, and future directions.

Purpose

Amidst the growing interest in precision agriculture, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of its various aspects. Specifically, it seeks to elucidate the benefits of precision agriculture in optimizing resource utilization, enhancing crop health, and promoting sustainability. Moreover, it examines the challenges faced in its implementation and proposes future directions to overcome these obstacles.

Findings

Through a review of existing literature and case studies, this paper presents a nuanced understanding of precision agriculture's impact on crop farming, livestock production, economic outcomes, and environmental sustainability. It identifies key challenges such as data security, implementation costs, and regulatory frameworks, while also highlighting innovative solutions and promising advancements in the field.

Originality

To the best of our knowledge, this paper represents a rigorous attempt to comprehensively analyze the landscape of precision agriculture, with a focus on its original contributions to the field. By synthesizing existing research and offering insights into future directions, it adds to the emerging knowledge base surrounding precision agriculture and its potential to revolutionize modern farming practices.
Wavelet-based vibration denoising for structural health monitoring
Authors: Silik Ahmed , Noori Mohammad , Wu Zhishen , Altabey Wael A. , Dang Ji , Farhan Nabeel S. D.
Published: November 2024

In the context of civil engineering applications, vibration responses are complex, exhibiting variations in time and space and often containing nonlinearity and uncertainties not considered during data collection. These responses can also be contaminated by various sources, impacting damage identification processes. A significant challenge is how to effectively remove noise from these data to obtain reliable damage indicators that are unresponsive to noise and environmental factors.This study proposes a new denoising algorithm based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) that addresses this issue. The suggested method offers a strategy for denoising using distinct thresholds for positive and negative coefficient values at each band and applying denoising process to both detail and trend components. The results prove the effectiveness of the technique and show that Bayes thresholding performs better than the other techniques in terms of the evaluated metrics. This suggests that Bayes thresholding is a more accurate and robust technique for thresholding compared to other common techniques.
The Third Indochina War
Authors: Ang Cheng Guan
Published: November 2024

The Third Indochina War – comprised of the Vietnam-Kampuchea War from 1978 to 1990 and the brief Sino-Vietnamese War in February 1979 – has received far less scholarly attention than the earlier two Indochina Wars. Ang Cheng Guan utilises a wide range of archival and secondary material, including Vietnamese, Cambodian, Chinese, Soviet, American, British, Australian and ASEAN sources, to provide a comprehensive new analysis of the conflict. By carefully reconstructing its chronology, Ang traces the life-cycle of the war from its origins, through the conduct of military engagements, to its eventual resolution. He focuses on multiple actors simultaneously, highlighting the inter-connected perspectives of the war's major protagonists – Vietnam, Cambodia and China. In demonstrating the roles of the USSR, the US and ASEAN in both prolonging and ending the conflict, he situates the Third Indochina War fully in its Asian, global and Cold War contexts.
Converting Rulers
Authors: Strathern Alan
Published: November 2024

Why did so many rulers throughout history risk converting to a new religion brought by outsiders? In his award-winning Unearthly Powers (2019), Alan Strathern set out a theoretical framework for understanding the relation between religion and political authority based on a distinction between two kinds of religion - immanentism and transcendentalism - and the different ways they made monarchy sacred. This ambitious and innovative companion volume tests and substantiates this approach using case studies from Kongo (1480–1530), Japan (1560–1614), Ayutthaya (Thailand, 1660–1690) and Hawaii (1800–1830). Through in-depth analysis of key turning points in the careers of warlords, chiefs and kings, a tapestry of unique characters and stories is brought to light. However, these examples ultimately demonstrate that global patterns of conversion can be established to illuminate the religious geography of the world today.