bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A paradigm shift in crisis management: The nexus of AGI‐driven intelligence fusion networks and blockchain trustworthiness
Authors: Yue Yang , Shyu Joseph Z.
Published: February 2024

In an era characterized by vast data streams and complex socioeconomic dynamics, the fusion and precise analysis of multi‐sourced intelligence has emerged as a pivotal challenge. To address this, the study constructs a sophisticated intelligence fusion network (IFN) architecture leveraging the potential of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the security tenets of blockchain technology. Drawing from diverse fields including informatics, computer science, data analytics, and network security, the research adopts an integrative methodology comprising both a comprehensive literature review and systems analysis. Key findings highlight the prowess of AGI‐driven IFNs in enhancing governmental early warning systems for crisis management. These networks underscore a paradigm shift from reactive postevent measures to proactive pre‐event forecasting, thus bolstering the efficacy of governmental responses. Moreover, the decentralized nature of blockchain technology ensures data integrity, fostering trust in interdepartmental data sharing—an essential for efficient crisis management in hierarchical administrative structures. This study accentuates the need for redefining crisis management strategies, emphasizing data‐driven decision‐making and seamless intelligence sharing to ensure optimal outcomes.
Predicting time to asystole following withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment: a systematic review
Authors: Nicolson C. , Burke A. , Gardiner D. , Harvey D. , Munshi L. , Shaw M. , Tsanas A. , Lone N. , Puxty K.
Published: February 2024

The planned withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment is a common practice in the intensive care unit for patients where ongoing organ support is recognised to be futile. Predicting the time to asystole following withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment is crucial for setting expectations, resource utilisation and identifying patients suitable for organ donation after circulatory death. This systematic review evaluates the literature for variables associated with, and predictive models for, time to asystole in patients managed on intensive care units. We conducted a comprehensive structured search of the MEDLINE and Embase databases. Studies evaluating patients managed on adult intensive care units undergoing withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment with recorded time to asystole were included. Data extraction and PROBAST quality assessment were performed and a narrative summary of the literature was provided. Twenty‐three studies (7387 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Variables associated with imminent asystole (<60 min) included: deteriorating oxygenation; absence of corneal reflexes; absence of a cough reflex; blood pressure; use of vasopressors; and use of comfort medications. We identified a total of 20 unique predictive models using a wide range of variables and techniques. Many of these models also underwent secondary validation in further studies or were adapted to develop new models. This review identifies variables associated with time to asystole following withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment and summarises existing predictive models. Although several predictive models have been developed, their generalisability and performance varied. Further research and validation are needed to improve the accuracy and widespread adoption of predictive models for patients managed in intensive care units who may be eligible to donate organs following their diagnosis of death by circulatory criteria.
Promoter‐centred chromatin interactions associated with EVI1 expression in EVI1+3q− myeloid leukaemia cells
Authors: Ng Han Leng , Robinson Mark E. , May Philippa C. , Innes Andrew J. , Hiemeyer Christina , Feldhahn Niklas
Published: February 2024

EVI1 expression is associated with poor prognosis in myeloid leukaemia, which can result from Chr.3q alterations that juxtapose enhancers to induce EVI1 expression via long‐range chromatin interactions. More often, however, EVI1 expression occurs unrelated to 3q alterations, and it remained unclear if, in these cases, EVI1 expression is similarly caused by aberrant enhancer activation. Here, we report that, in EVI1+3q− myeloid leukaemia cells, the EVI1 promoter interacts via long‐range chromatin interactions with promoters of distally located, active genes, rather than with enhancer elements. Unlike in 3q+ cells, EVI1 expression and long‐range interactions appear to not depend on CTCF/cohesin, though EVI1+3q− cells utilise an EVI1 promoter‐proximal site to enhance its expression that is also involved in CTCF‐mediated looping in 3q+ cells. Long‐range interactions in 3q− cells connect EVI1 to promoters of multiple genes, whose transcription correlates with EVI1 in EVI1+3q− cell lines, suggesting a shared mechanism of transcriptional regulation. In line with this, CRISPR interference‐induced silencing of two of these sites minimally, but consistently reduced EVI1 expression. Together, we provide novel evidence of features associated with EVI1 expression in 3q− leukaemia and consolidate the view that EVI1 in 3q− leukaemia is largely promoter‐driven, potentially involving long‐distance promoter clustering.
Translation, collision and vertical‐axis rotation in the Organyà and Montsec minibasins (South‐Central Pyrenees, Spain)
Authors: García‐Senz Jesús , López‐Mir Berta , Robador Alejandro , Dinarès‐Turell Jaume , Pedrera Antonio
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a sequentially restored cross‐section of the Organyà and Montsec minibasins based on geological mapping, new field observations and available borehole data. The main objective was to describe the geometry and evolution of both basins in terms of salt tectonics and minibasin mobility. To this end, a comprehensive palaeomagnetic database has been used to constrain vertical‐axis rotations potentially related to minibasin translation and pivoting. The Organyà minibasin constitutes an asymmetric depocentre formed during the Upper Jurassic‐Lower Cretaceous by translation above a southerly inclined salt layer. Salt evacuation and minibasin touchdown induced salt accumulation on the northern side of the basin that culminated in the development of the major Santa Fe unconformity during the late Albian—early Cenomanian. Indicative of salt quiescence is the following isopachous Cenomanian to lower Santonian sequence Salt tectonics resumed during the late Santonian—Palaeocene, with the Montsec minibasin downbuilding coinciding with the onset of Pyrenean convergence. Changes of the base‐salt topography reflects regional‐scale geodynamic processes. The acceleration of crustal thinning in the North Pyrenean zone during the late Albian‐early Cenomanian favoured uplift in the Axial Zone, increasing slope and triggering salt mobilization in the Southern Pyrenees. Likewise, the onset of contraction renewed the downslope gliding of the Organyà and Montsec minbasins, and supports the idea that the early stages of basin inversion were governed by gravity tectonics. The kinematic reconstruction suggests that the more that 30° counterclockwise vertical axis rotation records pivoting during the suprasalt translation of the Organyà minibasin rather than solely the Iberian microplate rotation.
Peak serum luteinising hormone cut‐off during gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analogue test for diagnosing central precocious puberty was lower in girls with obesity as compared with girls with normal weight
Authors: Sakornyutthadej Natee , Mahachoklertwattana Pat , Wankanit Somboon , Poomthavorn Preamrudee
Published: February 2024

Objective

Serum luteinising hormone (LH) concentration has been reported to be lower in girls with overweight and obesity (OW/OB) as compared with girls with normal weight (NW). This study aimed to evaluate peak serum LH concentration during gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) test in girls with OW/OB and NW who had central precocious puberty (CPP) and to determine peak serum LH cut‐off for diagnosing CPP in girls with OW/OB.

Design, Patients and Measurements

Medical records of 971 girls with premature breast development who underwent subcutaneous GnRHa (100 µg of triptorelin acetate) test were reviewed. All girls were classified as either CPP or premature thelarche. All of them were further classified into two groups according to their body mass index as NW and OW/OB groups for each Tanner stage.

Results

There were 634 and 337 girls in NW and OW/OB groups, respectively. CPP was diagnosed in 600 girls (249 had Tanner stage II and 351 had Tanner stage III). There were no differences in peak serum LH concentrations between CPP girls with NW and OW/OB. Peak serum LH cut‐off of 5 IU/L (the current widely used cut‐off) had a sensitivity and a specificity of 75% and 90%, respectively in NW group. Peak serum LH cut‐off for CPP diagnosis was lower at 4 IU/L in the OW/OB group with greater sensitivity and specificity of 86% and 93%, respectively. The results were reproducible for each Tanner stage of breasts.

Conclusion

Lower peak serum LH cut‐off to 4 IU/L for diagnosing CPP in girls with OW/OB should be considered to avoid underdiagnosis of the condition.
South‐south refugee movements: Do pull factors play a role?
Authors: Lanati Mauro , Thiele Rainer
Published: February 2024

Studies analyzing the pattern of international refugee flows have so far focussed on movements to OECD destinations, even though the vast majority of refugees live in non‐OECD countries. Employing a standard gravity model of international migration, we fill this research gap by investigating the impact of destination country characteristics on south‐south refugee movements over the period 2004–2019. Our findings suggest that refugees tend to move to safe neighboring countries but also positively respond to local pull factors such as relatively high per‐capita income levels and the availability of education and health services when choosing their country of destination. Donors have the ability to affect the direction of south‐south refugee movements by investing in the social infrastructure of potential destination countries.
Recognition memory deficits detected through eye‐tracking in well‐controlled children with self‐limited epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Authors: Fu Yanlu , Zhang Jingxin , Cao Yina , Ye Linmei , Zheng Runze , Li Qiwei , Shen Beibei , Shi Yi , Cao Jiuwen , Fang Jiajia
Published: February 2024

Objective

Children with self‐limited epilepsy characterized by centrotemporal spikes (SeLECTS) exhibit cognitive deficits in memory during the active phase, but there is currently a lack of studies and techniques to assess their memory development after well‐controlled seizures. In this study, we employed eye‐tracking techniques to investigate visual memory and its association with clinical factors and global intellectual ability, aiming to identify potential risk factors by examining encoding and recognition processes.

Methods

A total of 26 recruited patients diagnosed with SeLECTS who had been seizure‐free for at least 2 years, along with 24 control subjects, underwent Wechsler cognitive assessment and an eye‐movement‐based memory task while video‐electroencephalographic (EEG) data were recorded. Fixation and pupil data related to eye movements were utilized to detect distinct memory processes and subsequently to compare the cognitive performance of patients exhibiting different regression patterns on EEG.

Results

The findings revealed persistent impairments in visual memory among children with SeLECTS after being well controlled, primarily observed in the recognition stage rather than the encoding phase. Furthermore, the age at onset, frequency of seizures, and interictal epileptiform discharges exhibited significant correlations with eye movement data.

Significance

Children with SeLECTS exhibit persistent recognition memory impairment after being well controlled for the disease. Controlling the frequency of seizures and reducing prolonged epileptiform activity may improve memory cognitive development. The application of the eye‐tracking technique may provide novel insights into exploring memory cognition as well as underlying mechanisms associated with pediatric epilepsy.
Spatial coordination and industrial pollution of urban agglomerations: Evidence from the Yellow River Basin in China
Authors: Hua Chao , Zhang Zhenhua , Miao Jianjun , Han Jingwei , Zhu Zhiyuan
Published: February 2024

Population, economy, and other social factors of urban agglomerations in river basins bear the inescapable responsibility for water environmental pollution. This article utilizes data from 53 cities in three regional‐level urban agglomerations in the Yellow River Basin (YRB) from 2006 to 2015 as research samples to analyse the impact of the coupling and coordination of physical space expansion (PSE) and social space structure (SSS) of urban agglomerations on industrial pollution. Multi‐source remote sensing data is used to quantify the physical space expansion of urban agglomerations, while population and economic data are used to measure the social space structure. We analyse the coupling coordination degree and spatiotemporal evolution of the PSE and SSS of urban agglomerations by applying a coupling coordination degree model. Finally, the grey incidence model is used to rank the influencing factors of pollution. The research findings are summarized as follows: (1) Three regional‐level urban agglomerations in the YRB show excessive expansion, with the Shandong Peninsula Urban Agglomeration (SPUA) being the most severe. (2) SPUA and Central Plains Urban Agglomeration (CPUA) exhibit the polycentric SSS, while the Guanzhong Plain Urban Agglomeration (GPUA) shows the monocentric SSS. (3) PSE and SSS of the three urban agglomerations are slightly uncoordinated, but show a trend of easing. The uncoordinated level between SPE and economic distribution in CPUA ranks the highest. (4) SSS exerts the greatest impact on pollution, while the pollution impact of PSE ranks lower. The pollution impact of the coupling coordination degree between SPE and SSS falls between the two. The research results provide a reference for sustainable urban development and planning in countries around the world.
Adaptive solution to transfer learning of neural network controllers from earth to space environments
Authors: Ogundipe Collins , Ellery Alex
Published: February 2024

Compliant manipulation has long been a major constraint for grappling in robotic manipulators. To adopt robotic manipulators in space for the prospect of capturing space junk and transforming them into salvageable assets for re‐use, robust adaptive manipulation would be key. We believe that a bio‐inspired approach could provide human‐like tactility required for robustness and adaptability in robotic manipulation. Given the similarity in form and dynamics between earth‐based and space‐based robotic manipulators, we first explored the transfer learning of neural network controllers as an avenue to address the challenges of limited computation resources onboard the spacecraft (space manipulator). We introduced a pre‐trained and learned feedforward neural network for modelling the control error a priori. While the results were encouraging, there are major limitations of neural networks' capability to ensuring the transfer learning of similar earth‐based dynamics to space‐based dynamics, given that the parameters of contrast are fairly straightforward. We have demonstrated these limitations by presenting a novel approach that is inspired by human motor control. We explored the adaptability through a practical problem of transferring a neuro‐controller from earth to space. With the results not as plausible as expected, an alternative adaptive controller has been learned to demonstrate a viable solution. The controller was trained entirely in simulation via rapid online adaptation of the robot's controller to the object's properties and environmental dynamics using only proprioception history. As a notable step, we have shown that appropriate models can be learned in this manner by training the control policy via reinforcement learning, which provides avenue for transferring the learned model from earth to space environments.
Nuclear α‐synuclein regulates transcription and affects neuronal differentiation
Authors: Surguchov Andrei
Published: February 2024

α‐Synuclein is a member of the synuclein family well known for its involvement in Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies. Most studies investigate the mechanism of its involvement in pathology within the cell cytoplasm and extracellular space. However, despite a continuing interest in α‐synuclein, two questions about this protein remain poorly understood. What is the normal physiological function of α‐synuclein, and what does it do in the cell nucleus? A recent article by Takaaki Nakamura and colleagues contains at least a partial answer to both questions. The authors identified previously unknown α‐synuclein‐interacting proteins in the nucleus and showed that the protein complex containing α‐synuclein modulates transcriptional profiles controlling the process of epigenetic alterations and neural differentiation.
Long‐term phytoplankton dynamics in two High Arctic lakes (north‐east Greenland)
Authors: Moedt Sanne M. , Olrik Kirsten , Schmidt Niels M. , Jeppesen Erik , Christoffersen Kirsten S.
Published: February 2024

Primary producers form the base of lake ecosystems and, due to their often short lifecycles, respond rapidly to changing conditions. As the Arctic is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, we see major shifts in environmental conditions, which impacts lake ecosystem functioning. Previous studies have found a general increase in primary productivity due to climate warming. However, few long‐term studies have included changes in phytoplankton community composition and biomass in relation to warming in Arctic lakes and it therefore remains unclear how different algal taxa and thus the community respond.

We investigated how climate warming affects phytoplankton community composition, taxon richness and biomass in High Arctic lakes, using a unique 23‐year data series on phytoplankton in two shallow lakes at Zackenberg, north‐east Greenland, one with Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) and one without fish. We further elucidated the role of physico‐chemical variables and zooplankton grazers in the changes observed.

Few major changes were observed in phytoplankton community composition over time, but the year‐to‐year variation was large. Taxon richness did, however, increase throughout the monitoring period, and in both lakes there was a significant increase in diatom biomass coinciding with increasing conductivity. Additionally, phytoplankton biomass was greater during warmer years with earlier ice melt. We further found that nutrient levels were positively associated with the total phytoplankton biomass in both lakes, indicating that expected increased nutrient levels, due to climate change, may lead to a greater phytoplankton biomass in High Arctic lakes in the future.

The large year‐to‐year variability, in both climate and environmental conditions, makes it difficult to predict weather patterns and their consequences for lake ecosystems in the Arctic region. This underlines the importance of long‐term monitoring programmes across the circumpolar Arctic and collaboration across regions and institutes within large scale studies.
Screen time and pediatric headache: A scoping review of the literature
Authors: Langdon Raquel L. , DiSabella Marc T. , Strelzik Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to summarize the evidence regarding screen use as a contributing factor in pediatric headache and migraine.

Background

Screen exposure is often reported as a headache trigger, though there is no current consensus in terms of how screen type, duration, or frequency influences pediatric headache and the associated burden of disease.

Methods

A systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, ProQuest Health and Medical Database, and Google Scholar was performed through November 2022 in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. All English‐language articles of pediatric patients aged ≤18 years evaluating screen use in relation to headache were included.

Results

A total of 48 studies were included. Nearly all studies were cross‐sectional and represented international samples. The strongest association between screen use and headache found was for duration of use, and computer use emerged as the most common device type related to headache. While there were mixed findings related to screen use and specific headache diagnosis, migraine appeared to confer a higher risk. Across studies, there were insufficient data to assess the impact of screen use on headache frequency or headache‐related disability. Several studies demonstrated changes in screen use and headache patterns related to the COVID‐19 pandemic and computer vision syndrome was commonly reported.

Conclusions

While there is preliminary evidence supporting possible associations between screen use and pediatric headache, there are several limitations in the present review including a lack of prospective and randomized controlled trials to better demonstrate causal relationships as well as methodological limitations with significant variability in how both headache and screen use are defined and measured. Future studies including real‐time screen use and device monitoring are needed to better understand the influence of screen use behaviors on pediatric headache and to help further define best‐use guidelines around these technologies.
Variation in ultra‐processed food consumption from 6 to 15 years, body weight and body composition at 15 years of age at The Pelotas 2004 Birth Cohort
Authors: Santos Iná S. , Bierhals Isabel O. , Costa Caroline S. , Matijasevich Alicia , Tovo‐Rodrigues Luciana
Published: February 2024

Background

The association of ultra‐processed food (UPF) consumption with obesity and adipose tissue in children/adolescents remains poorly understood.

Objective

To assess the association of UPF consumption with excessive weight (EW—defined as BMI‐for‐age ≥+1 z‐score) and body composition at 15 years.

Methods

In a birth cohort, daily UPF consumption was estimated by Food Frequency Questionnaires at 6 and 15 years. Those in the higher tercile of UPF consumption at both follow‐ups were the ‘always‐high consumers’. Air‐displacement plethysmography provided fat mass (FM‐kg), fat‐free mass (FFM‐kg), %FM, %FFM, FM index (FMI‐kg/m2) and FFM index (FFMI‐kg/m2). Logistic regression and linear regression were used to estimate, respectively, odds ratios and beta coefficients.

Results

Amongst 1584 participants, almost one in every seven were always‐high consumers. In crude analyses, there was no association between variation in UPF consumption and EW, and body fat parameters were lower in the always‐high consumer group than amongst the always‐low consumers, in both sexes. With adjustment for confounders, the odds ratio for EW was higher in the always‐high consumer than amongst the always‐low consumer group, and the direction of the associations with FM parameters was reversed: males from the always‐high consumer group presented almost twice as high FM (10.5 vs. 18.6 kg; p < 0.001) and twice as high FMI (3.4 vs. 6.3 kg/m2; p < 0.001) than the always‐low consumer group, and females from the always‐high consumer group presented on average 32% more FM and FMI than the always‐low consumer group.

Conclusions

In crude and adjusted analyses there was a strong association between high UPF consumption from childhood to adolescence, EW and higher body fat parameters at 15 years, but its deleterious association with body adiposity was only uncovered after adjusting for confounders.
Quality use of publicly subsidised tapentadol in Australia: a population‐based analysis
Authors: Camacho Ximena , Schaffer Andrea L. , Brett Jonathan , Pratt Nicole , Buckley Nicholas A. , Henry David , Pearson Sallie‐Anne
Published: February 2024

Background

Sustained‐release (SR) tapentadol was listed on Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in 2014 for chronic severe pain requiring long‐term opioid treatment. Dispensings have increased since listing despite declining trends in other PBS‐listed opioids. Preferential prescribing of SR opioids may increase the risk of dependence and accidental overdose, particularly when used to treat acute pain.

Aims

To explore the quality use of publicly subsidised tapentadol in Australia.

Methods

We examined annual initiation rates and patterns of use of tapentadol (SR) in the dispensing records of a 10% random sample of PBS‐eligible Australians (2014–2021). We used national tapentadol sales data to assess the proportion of sales attributable to the PBS.

Results

Tapentadol initiation increased from 2014, peaking at 7.5/1000 adult population in 2019 before declining to 5.3/1000 in 2021. We identified 63 766 new users between 2014 and 2020, of whom 92.8% discontinued in the first year following initiation, 58.0% had only a single dispensing and 34.3% had no other opioids dispensed in the 3 months before or after initiation. 27.8% of new users were dispensed tapentadol on the same day as potentially interacting medicines. There was a sustained drop in the proportion of sales attributable to the PBS from June 2020 onwards, from an average of 69.1%, to 63.9% of pack sales.

Conclusions

Patterns of use suggest tapentadol (SR) is generally used for short duration. Although most tapentadol sold in Australia is subsidised, there is evidence of a shift towards private sales.
Global burden and trends of disability‐adjusted life years and mortality for decubitus ulcer: A systematic analysis
Authors: Ding Hongfan , Yu Zhenghao , Yao Hongwu , Xu Xiao , Liu Yunxi , Chen Minliang
Published: February 2024

The management of chronic wounds has presented a significant dilemma, which is evident not only in clinical treatment but also in the substantial burden it places on medical resources. The global COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020 is likely to further exacerbate this trend. Therefore, it is imperative to delve deeper into the impact of chronic wound on disease burden across different regions and populations. In this study, we focused on decubitus ulcers (DU) as representative chronic wounds and utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 database (http://ghdx.healthdata.org/gbd-results-tool) pertaining to age, gender, region, year and socio‐demographic index (SDI) group. Disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) and mortality were utilized as indicators to assess the burden of DU. The analysis and visualization were performed using R software (version 4.2.3). A decrease in the global ASRs of DALYs and mortality for DU was observed across most regions between 1990 and 2019. The reduction in burden was particularly significant in regions characterized by a high SDI, while regions with a high‐middle SDI experienced an increase. The burden of DU increased with age for both males and females, with males generally experiencing a higher burden compared to females. Strengthening population‐based data on the prevalence of DU and implementing dynamic monitoring at the public health level will enable policymakers to develop evidence‐based strategies for efficient allocation of healthcare resources.
Nurses' encounters with patients having end‐of‐life dreams and visions in an acute care setting – A cross‐sectional survey study
Authors: Hession Alison , Luckett Tim , Currow David , Barbato Michael
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to estimate the proportion of acute care nurses witnessing end‐of‐life dreams and visions or having these reported by a patient or relative, and to canvass their related attitudes and beliefs.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey study was conducted from February 2023 to May 2023.

Setting/Participants

Participants were medical and surgical nurses from a 200‐bed acute care hospital in metropolitan Australia.

Results

Fifty‐seven nurses participated from a workforce of 169 (34% response rate), of whom 35 (61%) reported they had encountered end‐of‐life dreams and visions. The nature of end‐of‐life dreams and visions encountered was similar to those reported in previous studies by patients and clinicians.

Nurses generally held positive attitudes towards end‐of‐life dreams and visions but identified an unmet need for education and training on this aspect of end‐of‐life care.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that nurses in acute care encounter end‐of‐life dreams and visions in a similar proportion to oncology and long‐term care but lower than in palliative care settings. Education and training regarding end‐of‐life dreams and visions are needed to ensure the provision of comprehensive, patient‐centred end‐of‐life care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Impact

Research in sub‐acute and long‐term care settings suggests that end‐of‐life dreams and visions are a common accompaniment to the dying process. No research has yet focused on the acute care setting, despite this being the place of death for the majority of people in most high‐income countries. This study demonstrates that acute care nurses encounter end‐of‐life dreams and visions in similar proportions to oncology and long‐term care nurses but lower than palliative care nurses. Acute care nurses would benefit from education and training regarding end‐of‐life dreams and visions to enable the provision of holistic person‐centred end‐of‐life care.

Reporting Method

This study was reported using the STROBE Checklist for cross‐sectional studies.
Unexpected management forecasts and future stock returns
Authors: Kitagawa Norio , Shuto Akinobu
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the effect of managerial discretion regarding initial earnings forecasts on future stock returns for Japanese firms. We estimate the unexpected portion of initial management earnings forecasts (“unexpected forecasts”) based on the findings of fundamental analysis research and define it as a proxy for forecast management. Using this measure, we find that firms with higher unexpected forecasts are related to negative abnormal returns over the subsequent 12 months. By contrast, the expected portion of earnings forecasts is not related to future abnormal returns. These results suggest that the market tends to appropriately price the credible portion of management forecasts, while overpricing the less credible portion. Further analysis reveals that the relationship between unexpected forecasts and future returns is (1) distinct from accruals anomaly, notably (2) in the 6‐month return window, (3) in the first half of the sample period (especially in 2005 and 2006), (4) in extreme unexpected forecast news and (5) in a poor information environment. This study extends the literature by focusing on a more desirable research setting in Japan, compared to other studies, to explore management forecasts and present new implications for the market pricing of management earnings forecasts.
Acquisitions and social capital
Authors: Chowdhury Hasibul , Hossain Ashrafee , Jha Anand
Published: February 2024

We examine the association between the social capital—social norms that encourage altruism and discourage opportunism—in the state of the firm's headquarters and the acquisitions it makes. We find that the cumulative abnormal return around an acquisition announcement is high when an acquirer is headquartered in a high social capital state in the United States. This effect is robust and incremental to the effect of a firm's corporate social responsibility (CSR) ratings and economically comparable to the effect of corporate governance. The effect of social capital is stronger for firms that have lower CSR ratings, which indicates social capital may act as a substitute for CSR. An additional analysis shows that social capital's effect is stronger in a subsample of firms with weak corporate governance. Acquirers from states with high social capital also demonstrate less hubris in acquiring targets than those from states with low social capital as the evidence of lower bid premiums indicates. Overall, our results show that the social norms that social capital measures mitigate potential agency problems in acquisitions by inducing managers to honor their obligations to shareholders.
Comparing factors related to perceived control and preventive behaviors from COVID‐19 between Japanese and American nursing students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kondo Akiko , Abuliezi Renaguli , Niitsu Kosuke , Naruse Kazuko , Oki Tomomi , Ota Erika , Ezeonwu Mabel C.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Higher levels of perceived control are important to maintain health. The difference in factors related to perceived control and preventive behaviors during the COVID‐19 pandemic between Japanese and American nursing students remains unknown. This study aimed to compare factors related to perceived control and infection preventive behaviors between the two countries.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included nursing students attending four universities in Japan and one in the United States. Using Google Forms, the participants answered a survey comprising sociodemographic data, the Perceived Control and Self‐Efficacy Scale, the Perceived Health Competence Scale, and a preventive behavior questionnaire. The data were collected from November 2020 to May 2021. Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the factors related to perceived control and preventive behaviors, respectively.

Results

Data from 878 students were analyzed. University/campus emerged as a strong predictor for perceived control and preventive behaviors in both countries, with a positive correlation between perceived control and preventive behaviors. Older age, less frequent alcohol consumption, higher perceived health competence, less frequent work in Japan; and chronic conditions in the United States were associated with frequent preventive behaviors. Younger age was correlated with higher perceived control in Japan, while religion and increased workload were potential factors for American students.

Conclusion

Individual factors were pivotal in Japan, whereas interpersonal factors were more likely related to perceived control in the United States. Additionally, in both countries, policy or organizational factors significantly influenced students' preventive behaviors.
Formation of multistage garnet grains by fragmentation and overgrowth constrained by microchemical and microstructural mapping
Authors: Manzotti Paola , Regis Daniele , Petts Duane C. , Graziani Riccardo , Polivchuk Matthew
Published: February 2024

Garnet is an exceptionally useful mineral for reconstructing the evolution of metamorphic rocks that have experienced multiple tectonic or thermal events. Understanding how garnet crystallizes and its mechanical behaviour is important for establishing a petrological and temporal record of metamorphism and deformation and for recognizing multiple geologic stages within the growth history of an individual crystal. Here, we integrate fine‐scale microstructural (electron backscatter diffraction [EBSD]) and microchemical (Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry [LA‐ICP‐MS] mapping) data obtained on a polycyclic garnet‐bearing micaschist from the Alpine belt. Results suggest that fragmentation of pre‐Alpine garnet porphyroblasts occurred during the late pre‐Alpine exhumation and/or the onset of the Alpine burial, such that the older pre‐Alpine garnet fragments were transported/redistributed during Alpine deformation and acted as nucleation sites for Alpine garnet growth. These processes produced a bimodal garnet size distribution (millimetre‐ and micrometre‐sized grains). Thermodynamic modelling indicates that Alpine garnet grew during the final stage of burial (from 1.9 GPa 480°C to 2.0 GPa 520°C) and early exhumation (down to 1.6 GPa 540°C) forming continuous idioblastic rims on and sealing fractures in pre‐Alpine garnet grains. We propose that fragmentation–overgrowth processes in polycyclic rocks, coupled with ductile deformation, may produce a bimodal garnet size distribution in response to fragmentation and re‐distribution of pre‐existing grains; these clasts can act as new nucleation sites during a subsequent orogenic cycle.
Bioenergetic and excitotoxic determinants of cofilactin rod formation
Authors: Mai Nguyen , Wu Long , Uruk Gökhan , Mocanu Ebony , Swanson Raymond A.
Published: February 2024

Cofilactin rods (CARs), which are 1:1 aggregates of cofilin‐1 and actin, lead to neurite loss in ischemic stroke and other disorders. The biochemical pathways driving CAR formation are well‐established, but how these pathways are engaged under ischemic conditions is less clear. Brain ischemia produces both ATP depletion and glutamate excitotoxicity, both of which have been shown to drive CAR formation in other settings. Here, we show that CARs are formed in cultured neurons exposed to ischemia‐like conditions: oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD), glutamate, or oxidative stress. Of these conditions, only OGD produced significant ATP depletion, showing that ATP depletion is not required for CAR formation. Moreover, the OGD‐induced CAR formation was blocked by the glutamate receptor antagonists MK‐801 and kynurenic acid; the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase inhibitors GSK2795039 and apocynin; as well as an ROS scavenger. The findings identify a biochemical pathway leading from OGD to CAR formation in which the glutamate release induced by energy failure leads to activation of neuronal glutamate receptors, which in turn activates NADPH oxidase to generate oxidative stress and CARs.

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Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak in Philadelphia and the 1976 United States Presidential Election
Authors: Sakamoto Ryota
Published: February 2024

In the summer of 1976, prior to the United States presidential election between Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease occurred in Philadelphia. After an epidemiological survey, 221 people with pneumonia or similar symptoms were identified, 34 of whom died. The outbreak prompted the advancement of legislation to exempt companies that produced influenza vaccines from liability for damages, resulting in significant losses for the government. The outbreak was a major economic blow to the Bellevue Stratford Hotel, an iconic historical hotel in Philadelphia, which was forced to close 16 days after the election. Following the outbreak, media coverage was extensive, and there was frustration over the inability to determine the cause of the outbreak in Philadelphia. The critical factor was that the cause of the outbreak was not determined to be rod‐shaped bacteria, later named Legionella pneumophila, before the election date. While many aspects had an impact, it is possible that the Legionnaires' disease outbreak may have affected the outcome of the election, particularly in Pennsylvania. This study does not make definitive causal links but focuses on Legionnaires' disease and the 1976 elections.
Cross‐Sector Partnership Research at Theoretical Interstices: Integrating and Advancing Theory across Phases
Authors: Sadri Mohamad , Aristidou Angela , Ravasi Davide
Published: February 2024

Cross‐sector partnerships (XSPs) are embraced by policymakers and practitioners to address complex social and environmental challenges that no single sector can tackle alone. However, extant research on XSPs has primarily focused on isolated phases and singular theoretical perspectives. In our paper, we synthesize XSP research in the public policy and management fields to deliver a comprehensive and coherent understanding of XSPs’ different phases and theoretical perspectives – the XSP ‘theoretical topology’. We introduce two approaches for theoretical enrichment: informing and interacting. We emphasize the significance of ‘theoretical interstices’ as undominated spaces for new knowledge exploration. Through our integrative cross‐phase, cross‐theoretical approach, we address fundamental yet open questions on XSP effectiveness, value, and impact. Our work challenges existing understandings and opens new research possibilities; offers implications for practitioners; and informs current policy debates on mandating XSPs and on the role of ‘big data’ – powered algorithms in the XSP landscape.
The race distribution of the Fulvia fulva populations and mutations in the Avr genes in Turkey
Authors: Gül Esra , Karakaya Aziz , Ergül Ali
Published: February 2024

Tomato leaf mould caused by Fulvia fulva (syn. Cladosporium fulvum, Passalora fulva) is an especially important disease of greenhouse grown tomato. In this study, F. fulva isolates were obtained from Antalya, Muğla, Mersin, Burdur, Bartın, and Zonguldak provinces of Turkey. Pathogenicity tests were carried out with 47 isolates using a differential set of tomato varieties containing Cf‐2, Cf‐4, Cf‐5, Cf‐6, Cf‐9, and Cf‐4/11 resistance genes and Cf‐0 with no resistance gene. As a result of pathogenicity tests, races 2, 2.4, 2.5, 2.9, 2.5.9, 2.4.11, and 2.4.5.9.11 were identified. The most frequent races were 2 and 2.5. In addition, mutations in the Avr2, Avr4, Avr4E, Avr5, and Avr9 genes were investigated. While mutations in Avr2 and Avr5 genes occurred within the coding region, Avr4E and Avr9 genes occurred outside the coding DNA sequence. Based on mutations in Avr genes and mating types, 14 genotypes of F. fulva were determined. This study revealed the race distribution of the F. fulva populations and mutations in the Avr genes in Turkey. It will contribute to studies on the population structure and control of the pathogen.
Quantification of bulk elemental composition for C‐type asteroid Ryugu samples with nondestructive elemental analysis using muon beam
Authors: Ninomiya Kazuhiko , Osawa Takahito , Terada Kentaro , Wada Taiga , Nagasawa Shunsaku , Chiu I‐Haun , Nakamura Tomoki , Takahashi Tadayuki , Miyake Yasuhiro , Kubo M. Kenya , Takeshita Soshi , Taniguchi Akihiro , Umegaki Izumi , Watanabe Shin , Azuma Toshiyuki , Katsuragawa Miho , Minami Takahiro , Mizumoto Kazumi , Shimomura Koichiro , Takeda Shin'ichiro , Morita Tomoyo , Kikuiri Mizuha , Amano Kana , Kagawa Eiichi , Furukawa Yoshihiro , Yurimoto Hisayoshi , Noguchi Takaaki , Okazaki Ryuji , Yabuta Hikaru , Naraoka Hiroshi , Sakamoto Kanako , Tachibana Shogo , Yada Toru , Nishimura Masahiro , Nakato Aiko , Miyazaki Akiko , Yogata Kasumi , Abe Masanao , Okada Tatsuaki , Usui Tomohiro , Yoshikawa Makoto , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Nakazawa Satoru , Watanabe Sei‐ichiro , Tsuda Yuichi
Published: February 2024

Samples from asteroid Ryugu, brought back by asteroid explorer Hayabusa2, are important for investigating the origin and evolution of the solar system. Here, we report the elemental compositions of a 123‐mg Ryugu sample determined with a nondestructive muon elemental analysis method. This method is a powerful tool for determining bulk chemical composition, including light elements such as C, N, and O. From the muonic x‐ray spectra with three carbonaceous chondrites, the relationship between the elemental composition and muonic x‐ray intensity was determined for each element. Calibration curves showed linearity, and the elemental composition of Ryugu was quantitatively determined. The results reflect the average bulk elemental composition of asteroid Ryugu owing to the large amount of samples. Ryugu has an elemental composition similar to that of Orgueil (CI1) and should be classified as CI1. However, the O/Si ratio of Ryugu is 25% lower than that of Orgueil, indicating that Orgueil may have been seriously contaminated by terrestrial materials after its fall to Earth. These results indicate that the Ryugu sample is more representative than the CI chondrites as a solid material of the solar system.
Geochemical biosignature formation in experimental Martian fluvio‐lacustrine and simulated evaporitic settings
Authors: Cogliati Simone , Macey Michael C.
Published: February 2024

To assess whether life existed on Mars, it is crucial to identify geochemical biosignatures that are relevant to specific Martian environments. In this paper, thermochemical modeling was used to investigate fluid chemistries and secondary minerals that would have evolved biotically over geological time scales in Martian fluvio‐lacustrine and evaporitic settings, and that could be used as potential inorganic biosignatures for life detection on Mars. Modeling was performed using fluid and rock chemistries relevant to Gale crater aqueous environments. Potential inorganic biosignatures were identified investigating alteration deposits found at the surface of a simulant exposed to short‐term bio‐mediated weathering and comparing experimental and modeling results. In a fluvio‐lacustrine setting (water/rock of 2000–278), models suggest that less complex mineral assemblages form during biotic basalt dissolution and subsequent brine evaporation compared to what would happen in an abiotic system. Mainly nontronite, kaolinite, and quartz form under biotic conditions, whereas celadonite, talc, and goethite would also precipitate abiotically. Quartz, sepiolite, and gypsum would precipitate from the evaporation of fluids evolved biotically, whereas nontronite, talc, zeolite, and gypsum would form in an abiotic evaporitic environment. These results could be used to distinguish products of abiotic and biotic processes, aiding the interpretation of data from Mars exploration missions.
Ctenocephalides orientis and Ctenocephalides felis in Thailand: Head geometry by species, sex and geography
Authors: Chotelersak Kruawan , Puttikamonkul Srisombat , Samung Yudthana , Chaiphongpachara Tanawat , Dujardin Jean‐Pierre , Sumruayphol Suchada
Published: February 2024

Fleas in the genus Ctenocephalides serve as biological vectors or intermediate hosts of microorganisms such as bacteria, rickettsia, protozoa and helminths. Ctenocephalides felis has a worldwide distribution, while C. orientis has long been considered as a subspecies of C. felis in Asia. To help the morphological recognition of these two species and further explore their differences, we used the geometric morphometric approach applied to the head. Both sexes were examined. Five anatomical landmarks of the head were used, and to capture the curvature of the front head, 10 semilandmarks were added. There was a consistent difference in species classification accuracy when considering landmarks only versus their combination with semilandmarks, suggesting the importance of the curve of the head as a taxonomic signal. Using or not the labels in the reclassification analyses, the head shape allowed by itself almost perfect recognition of the two species, in both sexes, even after adjustment for prior probabilities. The same approach disclosed a high level of sexual size and shape dimorphism in both species. The contribution of size variation to the discrimination by shape was much more important between sexes (from 27% to 45%) than between species (from 0.7% to 7.1%). Nevertheless, in our data, size never could represent a way to reliably recognise the sex of an individual, even less its species. Geographical variation in head shape could only be explored for the C. orientis sample. No significant correlation of morphometric variation with geography could be detected, which would be consistent with gene flow between Thai provinces. The geometric morphometric approach of the flea head, when it incorporates head curves, is a promising tool for rapid, economical, and accurate species and sex identification. It is, therefore, a useful tool for future epidemiological and demographic studies.