bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Board of directors and innovation: A state‐of‐the‐art review from a contingency perspective
Authors: Belkacemi Ramzi , Veilleux Sophie , Roy Marie‐Josee
Published: September 2024

The link between the board of directors and innovation has received increasing interest from scholars, executives, and policymakers in recent years. Nevertheless, it remains somewhat cryptic, mainly due to limitations in terms of analytical frameworks, theoretical constructs, and methodological designs, as well as the absence of an approach that integrates the importance of contingencies. Thus, a systematic literature review at the junction of the highest strategic body (i.e., board of directors) and one of the most strategic organizational outcomes (i.e., innovation) proves to be an opportune exercise both from a scientific and practical perspective. Ultimately, the approach adopted in this study has led to the emergence of an integrative conceptual framework from a contingency perspective and various observations that dissect the impact of the board of directors on innovation based on a corpus of 114 articles published over a period of 33 years. Also, a research agenda and some key recommendations are derived from the in‐depth analysis conducted and constitute solid foundations on which to build tomorrow's studies in this research field.
The impact of a small‐group mammography video discussion on promoting screening uptake among nonadherent Chinese American immigrant women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tan Naomi Q. P. , Ma Grace X. , Maxwell Annette E. , Brown Roger L. , Zhou Kathy , Loh Alice , Young Lucy , Volk Robert J. , Lu Qian , Wang Judy Huei‐Yu
Published: September 2024

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an in‐person, small‐group mammography video discussion (SMVD) intervention on mammography uptake among nonadherent Chinese American immigrant women.

Methods

Women (N = 956) were randomized into either an SMVD group, where Chinese‐speaking community health workers (CHWs) used an effective, culturally appropriate video to discuss mammography, or a video‐only group, which viewed the cultural video sent by mail. Outcomes were mammography uptake at 6 months and 21 months postintervention.

Results

Women in both groups increased mammography uptake, and an outcome analysis revealed no group differences (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], .68–2.06). Overall, 61.2% of the SMVD group and 55.3% of the video‐only group had at least one mammogram during the 21‐month follow‐up period. When considering attendance to the SMVD, SMVD attendees had higher mammography uptake than the video‐only group (AOR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.19–1.92), and SMVD nonattendees had lower mammography uptake than the video‐only group (AOR, .33; 95% CI, .22–.50).

Conclusions

Both intervention strategies were associated with increased mammography uptake. The authors observed that the increase in use was greater among women who participated in the SMVD session compared with those who viewed the cultural video only. Future research may explore a virtual SMVD intervention for higher session attendance and increased mammography uptake (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01292200).
Exploration of Optimization Strategies for Locking Sulfur in 2D Layered/Polymer‐Enveloped Cathode Composite for High Power Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Johnsi M. , Asha Shalini V. J. , Azhagulakshmi M. , Kavin Kumar B. , Balasubramanian N.
Published: September 2024

In Lithium sulfur (Li−S) batteries the sulfur host material is a significant area of research that could impart enhanced conductivity and alleviate the shuttling of polysulfides. In the present study, graphene oxide‐ sulfur, GO‐S was synthesized in melt diffusion method by exploring the two different strategies: Ambient (G2‐M) and Inert (G2‐T) conditions. Within the cathode, efficient storage of S with sufficient space in GO interlayers was outperformed by G2‐T method. Further with PEDOT nanostructures enveloped by oxidative polymerisation proves to be a robust conductive layer and an adsorbing agent. It is evidenced physicochemically by XRD, FTIR, TGA, HR‐SEM. Moreover, in addition to the supporting studies, high binding energies of 168.3 and 169.5 eV confirms the superior performance of PEDOT/GO‐S (G3‐T) as most suitable cathode within the system. The electrochemical behaviour of G3‐T possess very low cell impedance with an excellent cyclic reversibility in CV during (de)lithiation process. At 0.1 C, an initial discharge capacity of 868 mAh g−1 has been achieved confirming a high catalytic activity with a low polarisation potential of (ΔE=0.25) inducing fast reaction kinetics. Thus potential locking of sulfur under inert condition is explored with a proven OCV of 2.3 V with red LED glow.
DMAP2: A Pipeline for Analysis of Whole‐Genome‐Scale DNA Methylation Sequencing Data
Authors: Stockwell Peter A. , Rodger Euan J. , Gimenez Gregory , Morison Ian M. , Chatterjee Aniruddha
Published: September 2024

DNA methylation is well‐established as a major epigenetic mechanism that can control gene expression and is involved in both normal development and disease. Analysis of high‐throughput‐sequencing‐based DNA methylation data is a step toward understanding the relationship between disease and phenotype. Analysis of CpG methylation at single‐base resolution is routinely done by bisulfite sequencing, in which methylated Cs remain as C while unmethylated Cs are converted to U, subsequently seen as T nucleotides. Sequence reads are aligned to the reference genome using mapping tools that accept the C‐T ambiguity. Then, various statistical packages are used to identify differences in methylation between (groups of) samples. We have previously developed the Differential Methylation Analysis Pipeline (DMAP) as an efficient, fast, and flexible tool for this work, both for whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and reduced‐representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). The protocol described here includes a series of scripts that simplify the use of DMAP tools and that can accommodate the wider range of input formats now in use to perform analysis of whole‐genome‐scale DNA methylation sequencing data in various biological and clinical contexts. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: DMAP2 workflow for whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and reduced‐representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS)
Indian mining industry: A balancing act? Social accounting and the path to sustainable corporate social responsibility
Authors: Dash Trilochana , Sahoo Chandan Kumar
Published: September 2024

In this study, we have explored the direct relationship between social accounting (SAC) and sustainable corporate social responsibility (SCSR). Additionally, we have examined how inclusive growth (IG) and creating shared value (CSV) mediate the relationship between SAC and SCSR. The research survey was conducted in five districts of Odisha, India, involving 418 participants. We have validated our proposed model through both confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses. The study's empirical findings suggest that SAC significantly and positively influences sustainable CSR. Furthermore, the findings suggest that IG and CSV partially mediate this relationship. This study is one of its kind, and it considers factors that significantly affect the sustainability of CSR measures. This model will also provide future researchers with new insights into the role of accounting relating to CSR and guiding in their future investigations. The framework developed in this study, will enhance the understanding of CSR for companies and policymakers, enabling them to devise effective strategies for implementing CSR initiatives that address social challenges sustainably.
Exploiting Lignin Structure and Reactivity to Design Vitrimers with Controlled Ratio of Dynamic to Non‐Dynamic Bonds
Authors: Duval Antoine , Benali Wissam , Avérous Luc
Published: September 2024

Lignin is an abundant biobased feedstock, representing the first source of renewable aromatic structures. Thanks to its high functionality in aliphatic hydroxyls (Al−OH), phenolic hydroxyls (Ph−OH) and carboxylic acids (COOH), lignin is an attractive precursor to crosslinked polymer materials. Different biobased macromolecular architectures can be designed from lignins, whose end‐of‐life should also be considered in the context of a circular bioeconomy. To enhance the recyclability of crosslinked polymer networks, the introduction of dynamic linkages to design vitrimers is a promising strategy. In this study, Kraft lignin was chemically modified with succinic anhydride, to prepare a series of modified lignins with a controlled COOH/Ph−OH ratio, exploiting the difference in reactivity between Al−OH and Ph−OH groups. Upon crosslinking with a diepoxy, mixed vitrimer networks with variable ratios between dynamic ester bonds and non‐dynamic ether bonds were synthesized. The analysis of their properties evidenced the impact of the non‐dynamic linkages on the materials behaviors, including their dynamicity and reprocessing ability. Although the activation energy for bond exchange is increased, non‐dynamic linkages do not hinder the reprocessability of these adaptable materials, and provide them high creep resistance. The controlled introduction of non‐dynamic linkages appears as a promising strategy to enhance the properties of lignin‐based vitrimers.
In Situ Construction of Hierarchical Nickel‐Cobalt Hydroxides Derived from Metal‐Organic Frameworks for High‐Performance Nickel‐Zinc Batteries
Authors: Diao Yuxin , Cao Haijie , Zhang Churui , Zhang Chuankun , Chen Hai‐Chao
Published: September 2024

Rechargeable nickel‐zinc (Ni−Zn) batteries hold great promise for large‐scale applications due to their relatively high voltage, cost‐efficient zinc anode, and good safety. However, the commonly used cathode materials are susceptible to overcharging and experience irreversible capacity degradation, primarily as a result of low electrical conductivity and substantial limitations in volume‐constrained proton diffusion. Here, we present a robust methodology for synthesizing hierarchical nickel‐cobalt (Ni−Co) hydroxides characterized by hollow interiors and interconnected nanosheet shells with the help of in situ formed metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). The templating effect of the MOF induced the hierarchical structure, while the chemical etching of MOFs by Ni2+ ions resulted in a hollow structure, thereby enhancing the surface area. Theoretical calculations suggested that incorporation of cobalt reduces the band gap, thereby improving electronic conductivity, and lowered the deprotonation energy, which mitigated overcharge issues. These advantages conferred improved specific capacity, rate capability, and cyclic stability to the Ni−Co hydroxide. The Ni−Zn cell delivered specific energy values of 338 Wh kg−1 at 1.62 kW kg−1 and 142 Wh kg−1 at 29.89 kW kg−1. Our investigations undercoreed the critical role of MOFs as intermediates in the preparation of multi‐component hydroxide and the construction of hiearchical structures to achieve superior performance.
The emerging roles of UFMylation in the modulation of immune responses
Authors: Liang Zhengyan , Ning Rongxuan , Wang Zhaoxiang , Kong Xia , Yan Yubin , Cai Yafei , He Zhiwei , Liu Xin‐guang , Zou Yongkang , Zhou Junzhi
Published: September 2024

Post‐translational modification is a rite of passage for cellular functional proteins and ultimately regulate almost all aspects of life. Ubiquitin‐fold modifier 1 (UFM1) system represents a newly identified ubiquitin‐like modification system with indispensable biological functions, and the underlying biological mechanisms remain largely undiscovered. The field has recently experienced a rapid growth of research revealing that UFMylation directly or indirectly regulates multiple immune processes. Here, we summarised important advances that how UFMylation system responds to intrinsic and extrinsic stresses under certain physiological or pathological conditions and safeguards immune homeostasis, providing novel perspectives into the regulatory framework and functions of UFMylation system, and its therapeutic applications in human diseases.
Problems of quantum‐statistical thermodynamics of plasmas: High‐ and low‐temperature limits and analyticity
Authors: Ebeling Werner
Published: September 2024

The OCP plasma model which has been the favourite plasma model of Gabor Kalman is simple but on the other side connected with some principal difficulties, and gave rise to some controversies. We discuss here the three main problems of Coulomb systems, the limit cases of the parameter : and . We show first that Taylor expansions in are in general divergent and have asymptotic character and expansions in are convergent. We study the analytic properties of the partition functions and the thermodynamic functions. Assuming analytizity with respect to the relevant physical parameter for pair interactions we can show that the analyticity with respect to this parameter allows to extend several OCP—properties, except the exchange functions, to many component systems by analytic continuation of the case to . In particular follows that the Taylor coefficients of analytic OCP functions may be extended to any multicomponent Coulomb system. Further, we discuss also the most difficult case and the problem with contributions linear in the interaction, the so‐called Hartree terms.
Empowering cognitive radio networks: residual inception–enriched recurrent convolutional neural network–driven QOS enhancement and energy efficiency strategy
Authors: Dharmapuri Chandra Mohan , Reddy B. V. Ramana , Payal Ashish
Published: September 2024

Due to the rise in information rate prerequisite and the heterogeneity level, the modification in network traffic in the upcoming wireless communication (WC) encompasses innovative challenges in the case of energy efficiency (EE) and spectrum management. To tackle this issue, several existing techniques have been imposed but none of the frameworks provided effective solutions to compatible with recent WC applications. This framework introduces an innovative deep learning (DL)–based distributed cognitive radio network (DCRN). The proposed scheme emphasizes single base station (BS) management, where resource effectiveness is obtained by solving active resource allocation (RA) problems using a bipartite matching (BM) technique. A DL scheme is emphasized to predict the traffic load (TL) for effective EE using a residual inception‐enriched recurrent convolutional neural network (R‐InceptionRCNN). The proposed method is implemented in Python, and the performance metrics including uplink (UL) achievable capacity per secondary user (SU), UL achievable capacity per SU, cost of energy consumption, EE, and mean energy saving (MES) are scrutinized and compared with conventional techniques. The proposed scheme achieved the overall costs, EE, MES, and UL capacity of 14.33 C/J, 149.99 J/MB, 13.49%, and 22.33 Mbps, respectively, on performing RA and TL prediction in the CRN platform.
Utilizing water hyacinth extract as an eco‐friendly electrolyte substitute for electrochromic devices
Authors: Philomina Amritha , Biswapriya Deb
Published: September 2024

In this study, an entirely biodegradable and cations‐rich Water hyacinth (WH) (Eichhorniacrassipes) extract is used as the electrolyte in electrochromic devices. The active electrodes are fabricated by applying a layer of nanocrystalline orthorhombic WO3 onto 5 × 5 cm2 fluorinated tin oxide plates using an indigenous formulation. The electrolyte utilized is the juice derived from WH plants without any modifications. The devices exhibit a transmission contrast of around 46% and 82% at wavelengths of 600 nm and >1000 nm, respectively, between the colored and bleached states. Additionally, they have a rapid coloration/bleaching time of 10 and 4.6 s with coloration efficiency value around 52 cm2/C. Investigations have indicated that the electrolyte's sodium ion concentration is likely the key behind the electrochromic process in this system. Using pectin as a natural gelling agent results in the formation of a gel polymer electrolyte that is mechanically resilient. The electrochromic systems created utilizing this electrolyte exhibit exceptional cyclic stability, lasting for 16 000 s of uninterrupted voltage sweep.
“Two zones and three centers” distribution and suitable areas shift of an evergreen oak in subtropical China under climate scenarios
Authors: Zhang Jinkai , Huang Song , Li Jiaxiang , Liao Lingjuan , Jiang Xiaolong , Xu Yongfu , Yu Xunlin , Wu Lei , Zhao Lijuan , Fu Jin , Yang Yun , Chen Chunhua
Published: September 2024

Understanding the impact of climate change on the geographical distribution of species is a fundamental requirement for biodiversity conservation and resource management. Quercus oxyphylla, an evergreen oak endemic to China, plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological stability in subtropical regions and high economic value attributed to its dark and high‐density heartwood, but the existing resources are close to endangered. Currently, limited knowledge exists regarding its distribution and potential influences of climate change on suitable areas. This study utilized 63 occurrence records and Biomod2 platform, to predict changes in suitable areas for Q. oxyphylla under future climate change. The results revealed that (1) Q. oxyphylla showed a pattern of three disjunctive geographical centers in the eastern subregion of subtropical evergreen broad‐leaved forest region (IVA): Qinling‐Daba Mountains, Nanling Mountains and Wuyi Mountains center. Currently, the highly suitable areas concentrated in two zones divided by the Yangtze River, that is, the northern subtropical evergreen and deciduous broad‐leaved forest zone (IVAii) and the mid‐subtropical evergreen broad‐leaved forest zone (IVAi). (2) The temperature‐related variables, such as annual temperature range (Bio7), the mean diurnal range (Bio2), and annual mean temperature (Bio1), were identified as the key determinants of the distribution pattern. Because of its considerable climatic variations in temperature and water conditions, Q. oxyphylla's habitat displayed a wider climate niche and strong physiological tolerance to climate change. (3) Under future climate scenarios, the suitable area of the species was expected to overall expand with significant regional differences. The suitable area in IVAi was expected to expand significantly northward while that in IVAii was expected to gradually shrink. To address the impact of climate change, it is necessary to develop conservation plans focused around the three distribution centers, implement localized and regional conservation policies, and conduct educational outreach among local people.
Analysis of resting status reveals distinct elevational variation in metabolisms of lizards
Authors: Jiang Zhong‐Wen , Ma Liang , Tao Shi‐ang , Wenda Cheng , Cheng Chuyu , Wu Dan‐yang , Du Wei‐Guo
Published: September 2024

Animals spend a considerable proportion of their life span at rest. However, resting status has often been overlooked when investigating how species respond to environmental conditions. This may induce a large bias in understanding the local adaptation of species across environmental gradients and their vulnerability to potential environmental change. Here, we conducted an empirical study on montane agamid lizards, combined with mechanistic modeling, to compare elevational variations in body temperature and metabolisms (cumulative digestion and maintenance cost) between resting and active status. Our study on three populations of an agamid lizard along an elevational gradient revealed a trend of decreasing body temperature toward higher elevations, the main contributor of which was resting status of the lizards. Using population‐specific reaction norms, we predicted greater elevational variation in hourly and cumulative digestion for resting lizards than for active lizards. Climate‐change impacts, estimated as the change in cumulative digestion, also show greater elevational variation when resting status is factored into the analysis. Further, our global analysis of 98 agamid species revealed that in about half of their combined distributional range, the contribution of resting status in determining the elevational variation in cumulative digestion and maintenance cost of lizards was greater than the contribution made by a lizard's active status. Our study highlights the importance of considering resting status when investigating how species respond to environmental conditions, especially for those distributed over tropical and subtropical mountain areas.
Ultraflexible liposomes for transdermal delivery of atorvastatin calcium: Rheological and ex vivo evaluation
Authors: Akl Mohamed A. , Ryad Sherif , Ibrahime Mohamed F. , Kassem Alaa A.
Published: September 2024

Our research aims to explore the possibility of incorporating atorvastatin calcium (ATC) in ultraflexible nanovesicles (UFNVs) to avoid the hepatic first metabolism and enhance its effectiveness as a potential alternative to oral treatment. ATC nanovesicles were developed utilizing the rotary evaporation‐sonication method and assessed in vitro concerning their vesicle diameter, zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficiency (EE), as well as in vitro release studies. The chosen formulation of ATC‐UFNVs was integrated into a different gel base that was evaluated for content uniformity, pH, spreading ability, viscosity, and rheological behavior. The skin permeation of the prepared nanovesicles was assessed using an ex vivo permeation and confocal laser microscopy images (CLSM). In vitro evaluation of the ATC‐loaded UFNVs showed that the mean diameter of the nanovesicles ranging between 60.84 ± 0.53 nm and 91.68 ± 2.11 nm, the Zeta potential values ranged from of –15.8 ± 0.31 to –25.1 ± 0.81 mV, the EE% were between 84.33 ± 1.94 and 86.53 ± 2.02%, and the ATC release from the formulations was 75.25–90.89%. All release patterns were analyzed kinetically following Higuchi's diffusion approach. Carbapol 934 gel bases containing ATC‐UF exhibited non‐Newtonian pseudo‐plastic flow with thixotropy equal to 2.013 cm2. Ex vivo data showed that ATC‐UFNVs had better penetration compared to free AC. CLSM revealed that the UF‐nanovesicle exhibited stronger and deeper fluorescence signals up to 90 µm depth of permeation in skin versus the rhodamine B‐free solution (50 µm). The transdermal ability of the ATC‐UFNVs gel formulation has been conclusively demonstrated by our research.

Practical Applications: The successful development of atorvastatin calcium‐loaded ultraflexible nanovesicles (ATC‐UFNVs) in this study offers promising applications for researchers and healthcare professionals. The ability of these nanovesicles to bypass hepatic first‐pass metabolism and enhance drug delivery to the skin presents a potential alternative to oral administration, which can be associated with gastrointestinal side effects and variable absorption. The findings of this research can be applied in the development of novel transdermal drug delivery systems for the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions. ATC‐UFNVs may be incorporated into topical formulations for the management of hypercholesterolemia, reducing the need for systemic medication. Additionally, the insights gained from this study could be utilized to explore the feasibility of using nanovesicles for the delivery of other lipophilic drugs, expanding their potential therapeutic applications.
A Direct Visible‐Light Mediated Coupling Of Azaarenes with Diversely Functionalized Alkyl Carbons via Organophotocatalytic Sp3C−H Bond Activation
Authors: Basumatary Joneswar , Protim Phukan Kimron , Bhuyan Samuzal , Gopal Roy Biswajit
Published: September 2024

Substituted azaarenes are one of the most ubiquitous moieties in natural products and drug molecules. An efficient organophotocatalytic method for direct coupling of diverse cyclic and acyclic alkyl carbons of alcohols, ethers, alkyl halides and alkanes with different azaaryl systems has been developed. It uses low loading of easily synthesizable efficient acridinium based photocatalyst and blue LED to generate highly reactive radicals on saturated hydrocarbons through sequential single electron transfer (SET) and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) process. These in situ generated nucleophilic carbon radicals then undergo instantaneous regio‐selective coupling with azaarenes through Minisci type coupling to generate an array of important pharmacophores through sp2C−sp3C bond formation. With inexpensive organophotocatalysts, higher yield and wide substrate scope, this method provides a greener, efficient and versatile alternative to the previously reported syntheses.
Expanding the Scope of Chemoselective Reductive Cyclization: Synthesis of Unsubstituted 9H‐Thioxanthenes and 10‐Methyl 9,10‐Dihydroacridines and Beyond
Authors: Kant Verma Shashi , Basak Ashok K.
Published: September 2024

Unsubstituted 9H‐thioxanthenes are obtained from 2‐(arylthio)benzaldehydes via In(OTf)3‐catalyzed chemoselective reductive cyclization in diisopropyl ether at elevated temperature. The reaction possesses broad substrate scope, good functional group compatibility and proceeds via chemoselective reduction of thioxanthylium ion in the presence of a highly reactive arylaldehyde. Similarly, unsubstituted 10‐methyl‐9,10‐dihydroacridines are also obtained via a Bronsted acid catalyzed chemoselective reductive cyclization of 2‐(methylphenylamino)benzaldehydes in isopropanol (solvent). The reductive cyclization method can also be utilized for the synthesis of 9‐trifluormethyl containing (thio)xanthenes. Mono‐deuterated 9H‐thioxanthene is obtained in moderate yield in deuterated solvent (THF‐d8).
Hydrazone Based pH‐Responsive Configurational Molecular Rotary Switches Containing a New Conjugated π‐Electronic Framework
Authors: Shee Subhankar , Khamaru Krishnendu , Banerji Biswadip
Published: September 2024

A pyrido‐pyrimidinone heterocycle derived pH‐activated, hydrazone based molecular switch and its switching mechanism are reported here. The introduction of a new conjugated π electronic framework (enone part in the molecule) allowed the system to undergo hydrazone‐azo tautomerization, followed by E‐Z isomerization through rotation around the partial C−N single bond. Under acidic pH, protonation took place selectively on pyrimidinone nitrogen, and that turned the molecule to the corresponding ZH+ configuration. On the other hand, addition of triethylamine in the same solution reverted the molecule back to its original E‐configuration. Extensive proton‐NMR, and detailed X‐ray crystallography coupled with UV‐vis spectroscopy were carried out to establish the switching phenomena. Theoretical DFT calculations leading to free energy diagrams, transition states, and intermediates shed light on the mechanism behind the switching phenomenon.
Virtual reality to characterize anticipation skills of top‐level 4 x 100 m relay athletes
Authors: Chomienne Loïc , Egiziano Martin , Stefanuto Laurine , Bossard Martin , Verhulst Eulalie , Kulpa Richard , Mascret Nicolas , Montagne Gilles
Published: September 2024

One marker of expertise in sport is athletes' ability to anticipate future events. In the 4 × 100 m relay, these anticipation skills are an essential asset for initiating their run at the right time. However, no study has focused on describing the underlying perceptual‐motor processes involved. Virtual reality provides powerful tools to describe and understand these processes, overcoming the drastic constraints encountered in the real world. Nineteen athletes from the French national teams were immersed in a digital replica of the Stade de France and confronted with digital twins of potential partners based on motion capture. Their task was to initiate their run exactly when their virtual partner passed over a go‐mark placed on the ground. The timing of different body motor events and visual behavior were measured and analyzed. Results showed that the execution of this highly constrained task is the result of a significant reduction in the variability of motor events preceding the start. These findings reveal the implementation of a perceptual‐motor dialog until the initiation of the run. This study is a first step toward understanding the mechanisms underlying anticipation skills in the 4 × 100 m relay; it constitutes a preliminary step to the deployment of VR training protocols.
SIGHT—A System for Solvent‐Tight Incubation and Growth Monitoring in High Throughput
Authors: Rönitz Jakob , Herrmann Felix , Wynands Benedikt , Polen Tino , Wierckx Nick
Published: September 2024

Physiological characterization of microorganisms in the context of solvent tolerance is a tedious process with a high investment of manual labor while often being limited in throughput capability simultaneously. Therefore, we developed a small‐scale solvent‐impervious cultivation system consisting of screw cap‐sealed glass vials in combination with a 3D‐printed vial holder for the Growth Profiler (EnzyScreen) platform. Components and cultivation conditions were empirically tested, and a suitable setup was found for the intended application. To demonstrate the capability of this cultivation system, an adaptive laboratory evolution was performed to further increase the tolerance of Pseudomonas taiwanensis GRC3 toward styrene. This approach yielded heterogenic cultures with improved growth performances in the presence of styrene from which individual clones were isolated and characterized in high throughput. Several clones with improved growth in the presence of 1% (v/v) styrene were analyzed through whole‐genome sequencing, revealing mutations in the co‐chaperone‐encoding gene dnaJ, RNA polymerase α subunit‐encoding gene rpoA, and loss‐of‐function mutations in the ttgGHI solvent efflux pump repressor encoded by ttgV. The developed cultivation system has proven to be a very useful extension of the Growth Profiler, as it reduces manual workload and allows high‐throughput characterization.
One‐year seizure freedom and quality of life in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy receiving adjunctive vagus nerve stimulation in Japan
Authors: Tani Naoki , Dibué Maxine , Verner Ryan , Nishikawa Stephany Mai , Gordon Charles , Kawai Kensuke , Kishima Haruhiko
Published: September 2024

Objective

Amount of seizure‐free days is a critical determinant of quality of life (QoL) in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE). The fractions of patients experiencing prolonged periods of seizure freedom with adjunctive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) have yet to be assessed on a large scale.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients in the Japanese VNS prospective observational registry who experienced at least 1 year of seizure freedom from all seizures, focal seizures, or tonic–clonic seizures (TCS), as well as patient‐reported change in QoL in these groups.

Results

The study included 362 patients with DRE, 147 were female (40.6%), and the median age at VNS implant was 23.0 years (range: 1.0–73.0). A total of 225 patients reported focal seizures and 184 patients reported TCS. After 36 months of adjunctive VNS, the cumulative proportion of patients experiencing at least 1 year of complete seizure freedom was 11% (38/356) with an average duration of seizure freedom of 19.4 months. In patients with focal seizures, 25% (n = 57/225) experienced at least 1 year of freedom from focal seizures with an average duration of 24.8 months. Higher cumulative rates of freedom from TCS were observed: 55% (n = 101/184) experienced at least 1 year without TCS with an average duration of TCS‐free periods of 28.9 months. 82.1% of patients with 12‐month complete seizure freedom reported markedly improved or improved QoL compared with 51.9% of patients who were not seizure‐free. QoL changes in patients with 12‐month seizure freedom from TCS and focal seizures were similar: 61.8% and 63% of respective patients reported either markedly improved or improved QoL at 36 months.

Significance

Complete seizure freedom is rare in patients treated with VNS; however, this analysis found approximately half of patients who experienced TCS prior to VNS experienced prolonged periods of freedom from TCS with adjunctive VNS.

Plain Language Summary

We studied patients in Japan with epilepsy that is difficult to treat. To understand if adding vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) helps such patients, we looked at which patients stopped having all seizures or stopped having a specific seizure type (such as tonic–clonic seizures or focal seizures), and how long these periods lasted. With VNS treatment, about 2 out of 4 patients with tonic–clonic seizures and 1 out of 4 patients with focal seizures had more time without these seizure types. Without seizures, patients felt better about their daily lives. Even patients who still had seizures felt better about their daily lives after 3 years of VNS treatment.

Trial Registration

The clinical trial registry number is UMIN000014728.
Affect and disordered eating behaviours in women's daily lives: The comparative explanatory roles of distinct momentary emotion dysregulation dimensions
Authors: Romano Kelly A. , Peterson Carol B. , Anderson Lisa M. , Heron Kristin E.
Published: September 2024

Objective

The present study aimed to examine: (a) whether distinct momentary emotion dysregulation dimensions differentially mediated momentary associations between affect and disordered eating behaviours (DEBs) in the natural environment; (b) whether these associations differed based on affect, emotion dysregulation, and DEB type.

Method

150 women with eating disorder pathology (Mage = 20.95, SD = 4.14) completed 4 surveys targeting affect, emotion dysregulation, and DEBs each day for a 10‐day ecological momentary assessment period. Multilevel structural equation models examined whether four momentary emotion dysregulation dimensions (difficulties with emotional and behavioural modulation, lack of emotional acceptance, awareness, and clarity) mediated momentary associations between negative and positive affect (PA), and loss of control eating, overeating, and dietary restriction.

Results

Momentary difficulties with emotional and behavioural modulation mediated momentary associations between negative affect (NA) and women's loss of control eating and overeating. These findings did not extend to PA, the other emotion dysregulation dimensions, or dietary restriction.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results support emotional and behavioural modulation deficits in the natural environment as potential transdiagnostic maintenance mechanisms of overeating and loss of control eating. These findings also support the potential benefits of targeting NA and this type of emotion dysregulation in existing and novel real‐time eating disorders interventions.
Prevalence and concentration of Ochratoxin A in beer: A global systematic review, meta‐analysis, and health risk assessment
Authors: Fakhri Yadolah , Ranaei Vahid , Pilevar Zahra , Belaia Olga F. , Kolaeva Natalia V. , Sarafraz Mansour , Mousavi Khaneghah Amin
Published: September 2024

In the current study, Ochratoxin A (OTA) levels and prevalence in beer were meta‐analyzed, and non‐carcinogenic risk was calculated using the target hazard quotient. Thirty papers with 70 data reports were included in our study. The pooled prevalence of OTA was 50.60%, 95% CI (confidence interval) (36.97–64.19). Five countries with the highest levels of OTA in beer were South Africa (1170.750 μg/L), Slovakia (31.300 μg/L), Portugal (3.140 μg/L), Tunisia (1.052 μg/L), and Greece (0.707 μg/L). The pooled levels of OTA were 0.089 μg/L, 95% CI (0.077–0.101 μg/L). Meta‐regression shows that OTA prevalence in beer decreased over time insignificantly (p value: .084). Except in South Africa and Slovakia, consumers in other countries are at an acceptable non‐carcinogenic risk due to OTA in beer. Hence, it is recommended that the quality of raw materials, especially barley, be controlled in the storage and processing conditions in South Africa and Slovakia.
Development of a multicomponent counter‐current flow model to evaluate the impact of oxygen and water vapor on CO2 removal performance in a hollow fiber membrane contactor
Authors: Yang Qiang , Lin Qianguo , Chong Cheng Tung , Zhang Yuyang
Published: September 2024

Membrane contactor has emerged as a promising technology for flue gas carbon capture as it integrates the advantages of high capture efficiency of absorption technology and compact design of membrane technology. However, the integration performance could be affected by the presence of minor components such as water vapor and residual oxygen in real gas conditions, owing to vapor condensation and dynamic oxidation in gas‐liquid transfer interface. Therefore, it remains a need to develop a model that enables the prediction of CO2 removal performance of membrane contactor under industrial real gas conditions. In the present study, a multicomponent model considering the impact of water vapor and oxygen on CO2 removal in membrane contactors was developed. The model, based on mass transfer equilibrium, gas reaction kinetics, and diffusion coefficients, describes the transport and reaction dynamics of multicomponent gases within the gas, liquid, and membrane phases. Utilizing the finite element method (FEM) for solution, the model was demonstrated with a case study of CO2 separation from a quaternary gas mixture by a hollow fiber membrane contactor (HFMC). The results highlight the importance of considering water vapor and oxygen in the design and evaluation of industrial membrane contactor systems, offering valuable insights for enhancing CO2 separation efficiency in practical applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparing methods for estimating causal treatment effects of administrative health data: A plasmode simulation study
Authors: Ress Vanessa , Wild Eva‐Maria
Published: September 2024

Estimating the causal effects of health policy interventions is crucial for policymaking but is challenging when using real‐world administrative health care data due to a lack of methodological guidance. To help fill this gap, we conducted a plasmode simulation using such data from a recent policy initiative launched in a deprived urban area in Germany. Our aim was to evaluate and compare the following methods for estimating causal effects: propensity score matching, inverse probability of treatment weighting, and entropy balancing, all combined with difference‐in‐differences analysis, augmented inverse probability weighting, and targeted maximum likelihood estimation. Additionally, we estimated nuisance parameters using regression models and an ensemble learner called superlearner. We focused on treatment effects related to the number of physician visits, total health care cost, and hospitalization. While each approach has its strengths and weaknesses, our results demonstrate that the superlearner generally worked well for handling nuisance terms in large covariate sets when combined with doubly robust estimation methods to estimate the causal contrast of interest. In contrast, regression‐based nuisance parameter estimation worked best in small covariate sets when combined with singly robust methods.
How can community music shape individual and collective well‐being? A case study of a place‐based initiative
Authors: Heard Emma , Bartleet Brydie‐Leigh
Published: September 2024

Issue Addressed

There is an urgent need to investigate innovative and creative approaches in health promotion that support work towards health equity. In response, this study explores the potential for arts, and community music specifically, to strengthen individual and collective well‐being.

Methods

This study used a qualitative case study methodology that involved interviews, focus groups and ethnographic observation with participants (N = 13), facilitator (N = 1) and support staff (N = 2) of an established community music initiative conducted in an urban community. Data collection was conducted across 2023 and data analysis drew on a socioecological framework to explore potential individual and collective outcomes from the perspective of those involved in the initiative.

Results

Findings point to outcomes across socioecological levels with researchers identifying positive health and well‐being implications for participants including joy, healing and a sense of purpose, creative self‐expression, confidence, social connection and contribution. Positive outcomes for the wider community were also identified including developing community ties, promoting safety and shaping and sharing of collective identity. Findings suggest community‐led opportunities for engagement can support healing and empowerment for people who are marginalised, and this can enable active community participation related to challenging the status quo and developing a shared set of values. Potential implications of these outcomes in relation to broader societal transformations are discussed.

Conclusions

This study highlights how community music, and the arts more broadly are working in communities in ways that support potential personal, community and societal transformations towards health equity.

So what?

By developing coalitions and collaborating with diverse sectors, including the arts and social sectors, health promotion practitioners and researchers can harness the creative strengths and resources that exist within a community to support positive individual and collective well‐being.
The effects of acute aerobic exercise on appetite‐regulating parameters and energy intake in males with obesity
Authors: Khodabandeh Shahin , Rahmani‐nia Farhad , Mirzaei Bahman , Fairchild Timothy J. , Hazell Tom J.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate the effects of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise on appetite control parameters, appetite perceptions, and energy intake in sedentary males with obesity.

Design

Eleven males with obesity (body fat percentage 36.5 ± 2.5%, body mass index 35.3 ± 4.2 kg/m2, V̇O2peak 29 ± 3.1 mL·kg−1·min−1) completed two experimental sessions: (1) no exercise (CTRL) and (2) 60 min of moderate‐intensity cycling exercise at 60% V̇O2peak (MICT) in a crossover design. Blood analysis included growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15), total ghrelin, peptide tyrosine tyrosine3–36 (PYY3–36), total glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), insulin, and glucose, as well as subjective appetite perceptions were measured in specific intervals. A standard breakfast at 0 h and an ad libitum meal postexercise was provided.

Result

GDF‐15 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [2.48–27.28] ng/L, p = 0.021) increased immediately following MICT compared to CTRL. However, there were no differences for PYY3–36 (p = 0.480, ), total ghrelin (p = 0.646, ), and total GLP‐1 (p = 0.451, ) between sessions. Appetite perceptions (95% CI: [(−20.38)–(−6.16)] mm, p = 0.001) were suppressed following MICT though energy intake was not different between the sessions (95% CI: [(−1904.9)–928.1] kJ, p = 0.480).

Conclusion

Sixty minutes of MICT increased GDF‐15 while suppressing appetite perceptions in individuals with obesity. There was no energy compensation postexercise.
Comprehensive parametric study and sensitivity analysis of automotive radiators using different water/ethylene glycol mixtures: Toward thermo‐hydraulic performance and heat transfer characteristics optimization
Authors: Bargal Mohamed H. S. , Allam Abdelwahab N. , Zayed Mohamed E. , Wang Yiping , Alhems Luai M.
Published: September 2024

Automotive radiators are primarily utilized in vehicles to dissipate the heat generated by the engine block into the surrounding. Utilizing coolants with superior thermophysical properties reduces the engine power consumption and improves the cooling engine performance. Comprehending the correlation between coolant characteristics and its thermohydraulic behavior is essential for advancing this innovative cooling technology. This investigation introduces a detailed parametric study of an automotive radiator using diversified coolant mixtures. Ethylene glycol (EG)/water mixtures, namely, (40:60), (50:50), and (60:40) are utilized as a coolant. The influences of the operational mechanism parameters, that is, inlet coolant temperature, intake air temperature, airflow rate, coolant flowrate, and coolant mixture ratio on the effectiveness, heat transfer, and fluid flow characteristics of the radiator are investigated. A thermohydraulic coupled model, based on the effectiveness‐NTU and thermal resistance theories, are developed for simulation of the investigated radiator. The outcomes revealed that the heat transfer rate is more significantly influenced by the inlet temperatures of the coolant and air than by the flowrate. Findings reveal optimal conditions for radiator design to be a coolant mixture of (40 EG:60 Water), coolant mixture Reynolds number of 1087.5, air Reynolds number of 2175, 11°C air‐intake temperature, and 94.25°C coolant mixture temperature for engine cooling maximization. The findings also indicated optimum mixture yielded the maximum advantage ratio (AR) and heat transfer with lowest pumping power, which achieved 7.94% and 19.30% higher AR compared to (50:50) and (60:40) mixture solutions, respectively. From energy consumption reduction prospective, the optimal EG/water coolant mixture results in a reduction in pumping power by 25.11% and 49.77%, compared to the (50:50) and (60:40) mixtures, respectively, under the same optimal operating conditions. Conclusively, the optimized automotive radiator design explored in this study offers a promising approach to improving vehicle technology and increasing cooling efficiency in internal combustion engines.
Beyond borders: The moderating role of cultural religiosity in the relationship between moral circle and generosity
Authors: Zheng Wang , Xi Juzhe
Published: September 2024

Research has indicated a link between the moral circle and an individual's prosocial behaviour. However, it remains uncertain whether this relationship holds across a broader range of countries and is influenced by sociocultural contexts. Drawing from an international dataset encompassing 49,540 participants from 57 countries, this study examined the impact of the moral circle on an individual's generosity and the moderating role of cultural religiosity. The results revealed a significant positive association between moral circle and generosity in a cross‐national context. Notably, in religious cultures, the connection between the moral circle and generosity was found to be weaker. Three robustness checks further affirmed that these findings are robust. The research confirmed a positive relationship between the moral circle and generosity in a multinational context but also highlighted the moderating role of cultural religiosity. This finding suggested that future research should further investigate how cultural and religious frameworks influence ethical behaviour.