bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability and plasticity in personality: A meta‐analytic investigation of their influence on cultural intelligence and five forms of job performance
Authors: Rockstuhl Thomas , Ng Kok Yee , Ang Soon
Published: August 2024

This meta‐analysis clarifies and tests the structural relationships among the Big Five personality traits, cultural intelligence (CQ), and an expanded criterion domain of job performance. Positioning CQ in the nomological network of personality traits is timely because research has demonstrated that CQ predicts a range of work‐related outcomes in today's multicultural workplace. Drawing on the Cybernetic Big Five Theory (CB5T), we conduct a meta‐analytic investigation (n = 24,552; k = 109) of the metatraits of stability (shared variance of conscientiousness, agreeableness, and emotional stability) and plasticity (shared variance of extraversion and openness) on CQ and five job performance outcomes (task performance, affiliative citizenship performance, change‐oriented citizenship performance, adaptive performance, and creative performance). Our findings show that CQ is a stronger mediator of the plasticity metatrait (than stability) on job performance, supporting our hypotheses. We also discover intriguing suppressor effects, suggesting that the importance of the plasticity metatrait on job performance could be underestimated in existing Big Five meta‐analyses.
Modified pulley maneuver to guide surgical plane in minimally invasive liver resection
Authors: Tomino Takahiro , Sugimachi Keishi , Shimagaki Tomonari , Onishi Emi , Harimoto Norifumi , Sugiyama Masahiko , Kimura Yasue , Morita Masaru
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Achieving an adequate surgical plane through optimal traction is crucial for liver parenchymal transection in minimally invasive liver surgery (MILS). MILS is more technically demanding than open liver surgery because of limited instrument mobility and the inability to use the surgeon's hand, potentially leading to iatrogenic injuries. The Pulley maneuver using barbed sutures has been used for laparoscopic hepatectomy; however, the sutures are single‐use and may pass through the liver parenchyma, making it uneconomical and inflexible. To address this, we developed a modified pulley maneuver using a barbed with a nonabsorbable polymer clip and metal clip for parenchymal transection in MILS.

Materials and Surgical Technique

Before liver transection, we prepared barbed sutures and attached nonabsorbable polymer and metal clips to the distal end. The metal clip prevented the nonabsorbable polymer clip from slipping, allowing one suture to be reused three times. Before liver transection, the suture was passed through the liver surface twice, with the clips to reduce iatrogenic damage. The sutures were anchored to the diaphragm or peritoneum for optimal liver traction. A laparoscopic or robotic grasper adjusted the suture tension for the appropriate transection plane. In open‐pit‐shaped resections, the liver is lifted ventrally for deeper access, whereas in wedge‐shaped resections, it is elevated in the caudal view. The modified pulley maneuver provides stable liver traction.

Discussion

The modified pulley maneuver is an economical, simple, and feasible method for enabling stable liver traction, thereby enhancing the versatility and safety of liver parenchymal transection in MILS.
A randomized feasibility trial evaluating the “My Changed Body” writing activity for people with endometriosis
Authors: Lores Taryn , Kwok Christa , Mills Jacqueline , Sherman Kerry
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Body image disturbance is prevalent in people with endometriosis. This study aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of the My Changed Body (MyCB) writing activity for body image in people with endometriosis.

Design

Two‐arm randomized controlled pilot and feasibility study.

Methods

Australian adults living with endometriosis who identified as having had a negative endometriosis‐related body image experience were recruited online through Endometriosis Australia. Participants completed a baseline survey capturing demographic and health data before being randomized into the MyCB or control writing conditions. Additional assessment was administered post‐activity and at 1‐week follow‐up.

Results

A total of 82 participants were recruited and randomized (Mage = 32 years, SD = 7.8). MyCB participants were less likely to complete the writing tasks compared to the control group (51% vs. 83%); MyCB completers had lower self‐compassion and quality of life, and higher psychological distress, compared to those who dropped out. The MyCB activity received good satisfaction rates (47%–87%). However, there was significant drop‐out in the MyCB group (n = 4 vs. 13 at 1‐week follow‐up). Limited‐efficacy testing showed an increase in the self‐compassion self‐identification for the MyCB group.

Conclusions

The MyCB writing activity may be feasible for people with endometriosis. A future larger trial will benefit from several methodology changes to enhance recruitment and retention.

Trial Registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12622000496718; Date: 29/3/2022; retrospectively registered.
Unpacking the effects of materialism on interpersonal relationships: A cognitive approach
Authors: Moldes Olaya
Published: August 2024

Materialism, or beliefs and values that link wealth and consumption to success and happiness, negatively affects interpersonal relationships. Prior work has typically explained these effects through the allocation of personal resources (such as time or money) within relationships, thus using a behavioural route. However, this research proposes an alternative cognitive pathway to understand the adverse effects of materialism on interpersonal relationships. Three studies (N = 1389) employing correlational and experimental methodologies showed that materialism leads to heightened expectations and standards for a significant other, which are associated with poorer interpersonal outcomes. Specifically, materialism heightens the ideal standards that one has for a close other around achievement (e.g., ambition) and positive image (e.g., attractiveness), which are linked to higher conflict and lower relational satisfaction. Therefore, this work contributes to deepening our understanding of how consumer‐oriented values shape social perceptions and negatively affect interpersonal dynamics. Practical applications include informing relationship counselling practices, developing educational interventions, and guiding marketers and media content producers towards messages that do not increase individuals' ideals and standards for themselves and others. Further research should explore other factors that might alter this mediation (e.g., mindfulness) and examine the short‐ and long‐term effects through longitudinal and interventional‐based research.
Incorporating citizen science into IUCN Red List assessments
Authors: Gallagher Rachael , Roger Erin , Packer Jasmin , Slatyer Cameron , Rowley Jodi , Cornwell Will , Ens Emilie , Legge Sarah , Simpfendorfer Colin , Stephens Ruby , Mesaglio Thomas
Published: August 2024

Many citizen scientists are highly motivated to help address the current extinction crisis. Their work is making valuable contributions to protecting species by raising awareness, identifying species occurrences, assessing population trends, and informing direct management actions, such as captive breeding. However, clear guidance is lacking about how to use existing citizen science data sets and how to design effective citizen science programs that directly inform extinction risk assessments and resulting conservation actions based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List criteria. This may be because of a mismatch between what citizen science can deliver to address extinction risk and the reality of what is needed to inform threatened species listing based on IUCN criteria. To overcome this problem, we examined each IUCN Red List criterion (A–E) relative to the five major types of citizen science outputs relevant to IUCN assessments (occurrence data, presence–absence observations, structured surveys, physical samples, and narratives) to recommend which outputs are most suited to use when applying the IUCN extinction risk assessment process. We explored real‐world examples of citizen science projects on amphibians and fungi that have delivered valuable data and knowledge for IUCN assessments. We found that although occurrence data are routinely used in the assessment process, simply adding more observations of occurrence from citizen science information may not be as valuable as inclusion of more nuanced data types, such as presence–absence data or information on threats from structured surveys. We then explored the characteristics of citizen science projects that have already delivered valuable data to support assessments. These projects were led by recognized experts who champion and validate citizen science data, thereby giving greater confidence in its accuracy. We urge increased recognition of the value of citizen science data within the assessment process.
Prediction of Clinical Severity of COVID‐19 Using a Combination of Heparin‐Binding Protein, Interleukin‐6, and C‐Reactive Protein: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Gao Yidan , Zhao Ke , Liu Jing , Zhang Xiangbo , Gong Ling , Zhou Xiang , Chen Gongying
Published: August 2024

Background

Systemic inflammation stands as a pivotal factor tightly interwoven with the progression of COVID‐19. This study endeavors to elucidate the significance of three key inflammatory molecules, that is, heparin‐binding protein (HBP), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and C‐reactive protein (CRP), in assessing the severity and prognostic implications of COVID‐19.

Methods

The demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were retrospectively collected from a cohort of 214 adult patients diagnosed with COVID‐19. Patients were divided into two groups: nonsevere (n = 93; 43.5%) and severe (n = 121; 56.5%). Additionally, based on their organ function, patients were categorized into nonorgan failure (n = 137) and organ failure (n = 77) groups. The levels of inflammation‐related cytokines were then compared among these defined groups.

Results

The severe group was characterized by a higher proportion of males, older age, and longer hospital stays compared to nonsevere cases. Additionally, severe cases exhibited a higher prevalence of underlying diseases and organ failure. Statistical analysis revealed significantly elevated levels of HBP, IL‐6, and CRP in the severe group. HBP, IL‐6, and CRP were identified as independent risk factors for severe COVID‐19. Furthermore, a combined assessment of these biomarkers demonstrated superior diagnostic sensitivity (85.10%) and specificity (95.70%) for predicting COVID‐19 severity. A positive relationship between elevated HBP, IL‐6, and CRP levels and impaired organ function was also observed. The predictive efficiency significantly increased (hazard ratio = 3.631, log‐rank p = 0.003) when two or more of them were combinedly used. Notably, elevated levels of HBP, IL‐6, and CRP were associated with an increased risk of mortality.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the combined assessment of HBP, IL‐6, and CRP offers enhanced accuracy and specificity in predicting the severity, organ failure, and mortality risk associated with COVID‐19.
Neonatal therapy principles during transition from neonatal intensive care unit to home: A modified Delphi study
Authors: Miller Kerry , Willett Sandra , Mccarty Dana , Dusing Stacey C.
Published: August 2024

Aim

To establish expert consensus on key principles for therapist‐supported interventions supporting infants born preterm and their families during the transition from neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to home in the USA.

Method

A diverse, interdisciplinary panel of experts evaluated the use of key intervention principles. A modified Delphi technique was used to seek opinions from independent and relevant interdisciplinary experts on the clarity of terminology, efficacy, and feasibility of implementing these intervention principles during the NICU‐to‐home transition.

Results

After our team consensus, one round of surveys was required to reach expert consensus. Twenty‐four experts, representing a variety of disciplines, responded to the survey. Results showed strong consensus on four key therapist‐supported interventions: building caregiver–child relationships; optimizing infant development; education and knowledge sharing; and enriched environments.

Interpretation

This research provides valuable insights into key therapist‐supported interventions that may be used during the NICU‐to‐home transition to address the needs of high‐risk infants and the well‐being of their families. Findings will inform the development of streamlined and effective interventions, improving child and family outcomes during this critical transition period.
Emergent constraints on historical and future global gross primary productivity
Authors: Chen Xin , Chen Tiexi , Liu Yi Y. , He Bin , Liu Shuci , Guo Renjie , Dolman Han
Published: August 2024

Terrestrial gross primary productivity (GPP) is the largest carbon flux in the global carbon cycle and plays a crucial role in terrestrial carbon sequestration. However, historical and future global GPP estimates still vary markedly. In this study, we reduced uncertainties in global GPP estimates by employing an innovative emergent constraint method on remote sensing‐based GPP datasets (RS‐GPP), using ground‐based estimates of GPP from flux towers as the observational constraint. Using this approach, the global GPP in 2001–2014 was estimated to be 126.8 ± 6.4 PgC year−1, compared to the original RS‐GPP ensemble mean of 120.9 ± 10.6 PgC year−1, which reduced the uncertainty range by 39.6%. Independent space‐ and time‐based (different latitudinal zones, different vegetation types, and individual year) constraints further confirmed the robustness of the global GPP estimate. Building on these insights, we extended our constraints to project global GPP estimates in 2081–2100 under various Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios: SSP126 (140.6 ± 9.3 PgC year−1), SSP245 (153.5 ± 13.4 PgC year−1), SSP370 (170.7 ± 16.9 PgC year−1), and SSP585 (194.1 ± 23.2 PgC year−1). These findings have important implications for understanding and projecting climate change, helping to develop more effective climate policies and carbon reduction strategies.
Oral health needs of Wampanoag elders on Martha's Vineyard: A comprehensive assessment
Authors: Gritzer Lauren , Alqaderi Hend , Puli Anshul , Friedman Michael , Jeong Subin , Bencheikh Narjes , Kim Sophie , Dinh Yen , Outlaw Jason , Swann Brian
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Evaluate oral health care access and utilisation, while identifying the specific oral health needs of the Native American Elders within the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (WTGH) on Martha's Vineyard Island.

Background

Elders, particularly the WTGH face notable issues in obtaining oral health care. This study addressed the oral health gaps within the WTGH Elders through a comprehensive community needs assessment.

Methods

Employing a mixed‐methods approach, qualitative concept mapping interviews with stakeholders and tribe members, a quantitative survey was conducted, and deidentified billing codes were analysed.

Results

Concept mapping revealed limited availability of services, accessibility and transportation, insurance challenges, lack of a centralised database, tribal/national policy and health‐related self‐sufficiency. Quantitative data indicated that 65% of Elders faced challenges in accessing oral health care, and 48% reported experiencing an oral health issue in the last 12 months. Additionally, 23% did not receive oral health care during this period, with a significant portion having previously utilised services at the Martha's Vineyard Hospital Oral Health Clinic.

Conclusion

Establishing a formal relationship between the WTGH and an academic institution for creating a portable oral health clinic supervised by faculty and developing a structured referral system is essential. This initiative aims to dismantle barriers to oral health care, improve access, and meet the oral health needs among Elders while offering valuable educational experiences for students regarding diverse patient populations and access‐to‐care factors.
Violaceous nodules of the extensor joints – a clinicopathological challenge
Authors: Antohi Daniel R. , Lei Donald , Occidental Michael , Amin Bijal , Lee Jeanie , Wang Shudan , Wu Benedict
Published: August 2024

Antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis (AAV) is a condition characterized by vessel inflammation and may have a variety of etiologies. Among these, cocaine and its common adulterant, levamisole, have been described to contribute to the development of AAV with distinct cutaneous manifestations. Classically, these manifestations involve purpuric or necrotic lesions involving the ears, nose, and extremities. However, we present a case of cocaine‐induced AAV presenting with violaceous nodules on the dorsal hands in order to demonstrate that this condition may not always present with retiform purpura and skin necrosis.
Structural properties, dielectric relaxation, and impedance spectroscopy of NASICON type Na3+xZr2−xPrxSi2PO12${\rm Na}_{3+x} {\rm Zr}_{2-x} {\rm Pr}_{x} {\rm Si}_2 {\rm PO}_{12}$ ceramics
Authors: Meena Ramcharan , Dhaka Rajendra S.
Published: August 2024

We investigate the dielectric and impedance spectroscopic investigation of Pr‐doped NASICON type () samples as a function of temperature and frequency. The Rietveld refinement of X‐ray diffraction patterns confirms the monoclinic phase having C2/c space groups for all the samples. The scanning electron microscopy shows the granular‐like structure and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis confirms the desired compositions. The temperature (90–400 K) and frequency (20 Hz–2 MHz) dependence of electric permittivity are explained using Maxwell–Wagner–Sillars (MWS) polarization and space charge polarization mechanisms. The dielectric relaxation shows nearly equal activation energy for all the samples with a non‐Debye type of relaxation in the measured temperature range. The complex impedance analysis shows the presence of broad grain and grain boundary relaxation peaks. The stretched exponent analysis of electric modulus using the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts (KWW) function further confirms the non‐Debye type of relaxation. Moreover, scaling analysis of the electric modulus shows a similar type of relaxation for all the samples. The ac conductivity data are fitted using modified power law, where the temperature dependence of exponent () confirms the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) type conduction for all the samples. Our results indicate that the Pr‐doped NASICON samples are potential candidates for charge storage devices due to their large electric permittivity.
Soft‐Tissue Phenotype as a Risk Indicator of Peri‐Implantitis and Peri‐Implant Soft‐Tissue Dehiscence—A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Isler Sila Cagri , Romandini Mario , Akca Gulcin , Bakirarar Batuhan , Unsal Berrin , Romanos Georgios , Sculean Anton
Published: August 2024

Aim

To investigate the association, as well as to characterize the associated panel of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory markers, between the different components of the peri‐implant phenotype and the presence of peri‐implantitis/peri‐implant soft‐tissue dehiscence (PISTD).

Materials and Methods

A total of 324 implants in 112 patients were included. The following components of the peri‐implant phenotype were clinically measured through the use of a manual periodontal probe or a digital calliper: keratinized mucosa width (PIKM‐W), mucosal thickness (MT), attached mucosa (AM) and vestibulum depth (VD). The presence of peri‐implantitis and PISTD was assessed through clinical and radiographic examination. Mixed‐models logistic regression analyses were performed to analyse the association between peri‐implant phenotype and the presence of peri‐implantitis or PISTD, adjusting for relevant confounders. Multiplex immunoassays were employed to evaluate the peri‐implant crevicular fluid levels of a panel of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory markers.

Results

Peri‐implant health, peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis were diagnosed in 36.6%, 21.4% and 42% of the patients (classified according to their worst implant) and 35.2%, 34.3%, and 30.5% of the implants, respectively. In the multi‐level multiple regression model, the absence of PIKM‐W (odds ratio [OR] = 9.24; 95% CI: 2.73–31.28), the absence of attached mucosa (OR = 19.58; 95% CI: 6.12–62.56) and a reduced (<4 mm) vestibulum depth (OR = 2.61; 95% CI: 1.05–6.48) were associated with peri‐implantitis. Similarly, the absence of PIKM‐W (OR = 6.32; 95% CI: 1.67–23.83), a thin (<2 mm) mucosa (OR = 157.75; 95% CI: 14.06–1769.9) and a reduced vestibulum depth (OR = 3.32; 95% CI: 1.02–10.84) were associated with the presence of PISTD. Implants with PIKM‐W = 0 mm showed statistically significantly higher levels of interferon‐γ in both regular (≥2 maintenance/year) and irregular (<2 maintenance/year) compliers (p = 0.046 and p = 0.012). In irregular compliers, the absence of PIKM‐W was also associated with statistically significantly higher levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐21 (p = 0.016, p = 0.046). These associations were independent of the effect of relevant confounders (e.g., plaque, compliance with maintenance, etc.).

Conclusions

Within their limits, the present findings indicate that (a) peri‐implant soft‐tissue phenotype appears to be associated with the presence of peri‐implantitis and PISTD, and (b) in the absence of PIKM‐W, the inflammatory response seems to be dysregulated and the soft‐tissue remodelling up‐regulated.
Master curves obtained by time–temperature–concentration double superposition of the κ‐carrageenan gelling biopolymer
Authors: Medina‐Torres Luis , Nuñez‐Ramirez Diola Marina , Cabrales‐Gonzalez Angel Manuel , Manero Octavio
Published: August 2024

The viscoelastic behavior of food‐grade biopolymers during gelation has a complex frequency spectrum that is difficult to measure by commercial rheometers. Master curves built by time–temperature superposition (TTS) of data arising from small‐amplitude oscillatory flow (SAOS) or stress relaxation at a given reference temperature can provide the frequency span required to describe the frequency spectrum of highly complex systems such as hydrocolloids (e.g., κappa‐carrageenan). In this work, master curves using TTS were obtained for various concentrations (1%–4% w/w). For a given concentration, mechanical spectra were generated for various temperatures (5, 10, 25, 37, and 45°C) to obtain the master curves and shifting factors (aT, bT) using the WLF (Williams–Landel–Ferry) equation. In this context, a methodology is suggested to obtain a wide observation window to describe complex spectra from gelling systems employed in the chemical industry.

Practical applications

The rheological methods used in this work combined the enhancement of the frequency range from experimental stress relaxation and SAOS data with double superposition. These methods are already known, but the combination to achieve an ample frequency range of more than 8 decades represents a useful tool for industrial applications of gelling systems like food hydrocolloids (i.e., κappa‐carrageenan). It also helps to predict the viscoelastic behavior at temperatures and concentrations outside the usual range of rheometric measurements. It is further useful in the areas of equipment design and quality control for food products.
Regression of liver fibrosis after HBsAg loss: A prospective matched case–control evaluation using transient elastography and serum enhanced liver fibrosis test
Authors: Mak Lung‐Yi , Hui Rex Wan‐Hin , Chung Matthew S. H. , Wong Danny Ka‐Ho , Fung James , Seto Wai‐Kay , Yuen Man‐Fung
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

We assessed the effect of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance (HBsAg‐loss) on liver fibrosis regression in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection.

Method

CHB patients with recent documented HBsAg‐loss were age‐ and gender‐matched with treatment‐naïve HBeAg‐negative CHB infection. Paired assessment with transient elastography and enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) measurements were performed and repeated at 3 years. Fibrosis regression was arbitrarily defined as decrease in ≥ 1 fibrosis stage by ELF, or combining with reduction > 30% in liver stiffness.

Results

A total of 142 HBsAg‐loss and 142 CHB subjects were recruited (median age 58.1 years, 51.4% male). A total of 1.8% (1.4% HBsAg‐loss vs 2.1% CHB) achieved combined endpoint of fibrosis regression at 3 years. When ELF‐only definition of fibrosis regression was used, 14.5% HBsAg‐loss and 16.9% CHB subjects achieved this endpoint, which was significantly associated with baseline ELF (hazard ratio (HR) 1.827, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.085–3.075) and time since HBsAg‐loss (HR 2.688, 95% CI 1.257–5.748). While increasing time since HBsAg‐loss increased the proportion of ELF‐defined fibrosis regression, increasing age was also associated with significant fibrosis. Age of achieving HBsAg‐loss (ageSC) was independently associated with high baseline ELF values. Up to 52.3% and 63.8% subjects with ageSC > 50 had advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis at baseline and 3 years, respectively, compared with 5.9% and 20.6% in subjects with ageSC < 50.

Conclusion

Fibrosis regression occurred in a minority of subjects achieving HBsAg‐loss, which was not significantly different compared with subjects with persistent overt CHB. Subjects after achieving HBsAg‐loss, especially among those with ageSC > 50, should receive ongoing surveillance for liver‐related complications.
Preventing Vertical Transmission of Chagas Disease: An Emerging Public Health Issue in Perinatal Care
Authors: Hinton Sarah M.
Published: August 2024

Chagas [shah‐guhs] disease, caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, presents a growing concern for health care providers overseeing perinatal care in the United States due to existing and expanding vector‐borne transmission and population migration. This life‐threatening disease can be transmitted vertically during pregnancy, although adequate testing and treatment can effectively reduce morbidity and mortality caused by Chagas disease. This article presents an overview of the disease burden in the United States and its implications for perinatal care providers including recommended testing and treatment practices and the information needed for patient education and shared decision‐making regarding the management of care for individuals at risk of Chagas disease. Being informed about Chagas disease and its implications is needed for all individuals providing perinatal care and is especially critical for those overseeing the care of refugee and immigrant populations.
Prospective memory functions in traumatic brain injury: The role of neuropsychological deficits, metamemory and impaired self‐awareness
Authors: Lencsés Anita , Mikula Bernadett , Mioni Giovanna , Rendell Peter G. , Dénes Zoltán , Demeter Gyula
Published: August 2024

A large body of evidence suggests that individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have significant difficulties with prospective memory (PM), the memory for future intentions. However, the processes underlying this cognitive deficit remain unclear. This study aimed to gather further evidence regarding PM functions in TBI and clarify the role of neuropsychological deficits, metamemory, and mood disorders. We used a laboratory‐based clinical measure, the Virtual Week, to examine PM function in 18 patients with TBI and 18 healthy control subjects. Measures of attention, processing speed, executive functions, episodic memory, and self‐report questionnaires were also administered. In line with prior literature, our findings indicate that individuals with TBI had a consistent deficit compared to controls across all PM tasks. In previous studies, TBI patients had more severe impairment on time‐based tasks; nevertheless, our results show that across all participants event‐based tasks were easier to perform compared to time‐based only when the retrospective memory demand was high. The patients were not only impaired on the prospective component of PM but also failed to recognise the content of their task (the retrospective component). Interestingly, the TBI group did not report higher levels of everyday memory problems, anxiety and depression compared to the control group. These measures also failed to correlate with PM and recognition memory performance. This study found that besides the neuropsychological deficits, a global impairment in PM functioning is present in individuals with TBI across various task types, tasks low and high in retrospective demands, and event versus time‐based.
The Working Capital Credit Multiplier
Authors: ALMEIDA HEITOR , CARVALHO DANIEL , KIM TAEHYUN
Published: August 2024

We provide novel evidence that funding frictions can limit firms’ short‐term investments in receivables and inventories, reducing their production capacity. We propose a credit multiplier driven by these considerations and empirically isolate its importance by comparing how a similar firm responds to shocks differently when these shocks are initiated in their most profitable quarter (“main quarter”). We implement this test using recurring and unpredictable shocks (e.g., oil shocks) and provide extensive evidence supporting our identification strategy. Our results suggest that funding constraints and credit multiplier effects are significant for smaller firms that heavily rely on financing from suppliers.
Repair strength of 3D‐printed denture base resins: Effect of surface treatment and repair material type
Authors: Gad Mohammed M. , Hamad Hawra M. Al , Almohsin Fatimah M. , Fouda Shaimaa M. , Akhtar Sultan , Khan Soban Q. , Rahoma Ahmed , Al‐Qarni Faisal D. , Baba Nadim Z. , Al‐Harbi Fahad A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of surface treatment and repair materials on the flexural strength of repaired 3D‐printed denture base resins after thermal aging.

Materials and methods

Bar‐shape specimens (64 × 10 × 3.3 mm) were designed as intact (control) specimens while repair specimens were printed in sections with 2.5 mm space for repair material. Printing was performed with either ASIGA or NextDent denture base material. In each material, one group received no surface treatment, while other repair groups were subjected to one of three surface treatments: (1) monomer application, (2) aluminium oxide particles‐abrasion, or (3) both methods (aluminum oxide particles‐abrasion and monomer application). Pairs were fixed in a customized mold then repaired with either autopolymerizing acrylic resin or flowable composite (n = 9). Repaired specimens were incubated for 48 h at 37°C in distilled water and then subjected to thermal cycling (5000 cycles). A 3‐point bending test was used to evaluate the flexural strength using a universal testing machine, and mode of failure determined followed by fractured surface analysis using scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test (α = 0.05).

Results

Both resin materials showed a significant decrease in the flexural strength of repaired specimens when compared to control ones (p < 0.001). Groups with no surface treatment had significantly lower flexural strength than those with surface treatment (p < 0.001). Groups treated with monomer application, and with aluminum oxide particles abrasion plus monomer application had similar flexural strength values (p > 0.05), which were higher than those treated with aluminum oxide particles abrasion alone (p < 0.001). Specimens repaired with composite resin showed higher flexural strength than those repaired with auto‐polymerized resin (p < 0.05) however, specimens treated with aluminum oxide particles abrasion alone had similar values for both repair materials (p = 0.95). Adhesive failure was dominant in all repaired groups with auto‐polymerized while cohesive and mixed were dominant with composite repair groups.

Conclusion

Surface treatment improved the repair strength of 3D‐printed denture base resins. Using composite resin for repair shows better strength with dominant cohesive and mixed failure suggesting that surface treatment and composite repair are suitable procedures for 3D‐printed denture base repair.
Incentivizing anticorruption reform: Evidence from a natural experiment in Mexican subnational legislatures
Authors: Guajardo Gustavo
Published: August 2024

While popular with voters, politicians rarely advance anticorruption policies because they can personally inconvenience them. When do the benefits of anticorruption reform outweigh the costs? I explore the role of electoral incentives by leveraging original data on over 600 anticorruption initiatives introduced to state legislatures in Mexico and an overlap between two reforms—one that required states to create local anticorruption systems and one that lifted an 80‐year‐old ban on reelection. Results show that legislators with reelection incentives were more likely to advance anticorruption initiatives and more likely to comply with the creation of local anticorruption systems. Findings underscore that while anticorruption reform is often met with resistance because corruption benefits those in power, electoral incentives can generate conditions under which reform takes place.
Cosmic‐ray exposure age accumulated in near‐Earth space: A carbonaceous chondrite case study
Authors: Shober Patrick M. , Caffee Marc W. , Bland Phil A.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the expected cosmic‐ray exposure (CRE) of meteorites if they were to be ejected by a near‐Earth object, that is, from an object already transferred to an Earth‐crossing orbit by an orbital resonance. Specifically, we examine the CRE ages of CI and CM carbonaceous chondrites (CCs), which have some of the shortest measured CRE ages of any meteorite type. A steady‐state near‐Earth carbonaceous meteoroid probability density function is estimated based on the low‐albedo near‐Earth asteroid population, including parameters such as the near‐Earth dynamic lifetime, the impact probability with the Earth, and the orbital parameters. This model was then compared to the orbits and CRE ages of the five CC falls with precisely measured orbits: Tagish Lake, Maribo, Sutter's Mill, Flensburg, and Winchcombe. The study examined two meteoroid ejection scenarios for CI/CM meteoroids: Main Belt collisions and ejections in near‐Earth space. The results indicated that applying a maximum physical lifetime in near‐Earth space of 2–10 Myr to meteoroids and eliminating events evolving onto orbits entirely detached from the Main Belt (Q < 1.78 au) significantly improved the agreement with the observed orbits of carbonaceous falls. Additionally, the CRE ages of three of the five carbonaceous falls have measured CRE ages one to three orders of magnitude shorter than expected for an object originating from the Main Belt with the corresponding semi‐major axis value. This discrepancy between the expected CRE ages from the model and the measured ages of three of the carbonaceous falls indicates that some CI/CM meteoroids are being ejected in near‐Earth space. This study proposes a nuanced hypothesis involving meteoroid impacts and tidal disruptions as significant contributors to the ejection and subsequent CRE age accumulation of CI/CM chondrites in near‐Earth space.
Evolutionary drivers of reproductive fitness in two endangered forest trees
Authors: Mendoza‐Maya Eduardo , Giles‐Pérez Gustavo Ibrahim , Vargas‐Hernández J. Jesús , Sáenz‐Romero Cuauhtémoc , Martínez‐Trujillo Miguel , de los Angeles Beltrán‐Nambo María , Hernández‐Díaz José Ciro , Prieto‐Ruíz José Ángel , Jaramillo‐Correa Juan P. , Wehenkel Christian
Published: August 2024

Population genetics theory predicts a relationship between fitness, genetic diversity (H0) and effective population size (Ne), which is often tested through heterozygosity‐fitness correlations (HFCs).

We tested whether population and individual fertility and heterozygosity are correlated in two endangered Mexican spruces (Picea martinezii and Picea mexicana) by combining genomic, demographic and reproductive data (seed development and germination traits).

For both species, there was a positive correlation between population size and seed development traits, but not germination rate. Individual genome‐wide heterozygosity and seed traits were only correlated in P. martinezii (general‐effects HFC), and none of the candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with individual fertility showed heterozygote advantage in any species (no local‐effects HFC). We observed a single and recent (c. 30 thousand years ago (ka)) population decline for P. martinezii; the collapse of P. mexicana occurred in two phases separated by a long period of stability (c. 800 ka). Recruitment always contributed more to total population census than adult trees in P. mexicana, while this was only the case in the largest populations of P. martinezii.

Equating fitness to either H0 or Ne, as traditionally proposed in conservation biology, might not always be adequate, as species‐specific evolutionary factors can decouple the expected correlation between these parameters.
Treatment of Fourth Metatarsal Brachymetatarsia Using Distraction Osteogenesis with External Fixator: Surgical Techniques, Outcomes and Complications
Authors: Li Xing , Gu Jianming , Wu Yong , Wang Yan , Gong Xiaofeng , Sun Ning , Li Ying , Lai Liangpeng , Li Wenjing , Li Heng , Yang Xiaosong , He Xiaotian , Du Hui
Published: August 2024

Objective

Surgical technique in distraction osteogenesis for the treatment of brachymetatarsia can influence the final prognosis. However, there are currently no standardized guidelines for surgical procedures and complication management. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of bone lengthening with external fixation by minimally invasive osteotomy based on Ilizarov technique in the treatment of congenital brachymetatarsia.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on patients with congenital brachymetatarsia treated by metatarsal lengthening, from June 2017 to December 2020. There were 11 patients with 17 shorted fourth metatarsals, including 10 females and 1 male, with age of 24.6 ± 4.5 years (16–31 years). Six patients were bilaterally involved. Orthofix external fixator mini track was installed through dorsal approach and the fourth MTP joints were temporarily fixed by Kirschner wire. Bone lengthening was performed after a minimally invasive osteotomy at the proximal metatarsals. American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) lesser metatarsophalangeal‐interphalangeal (MTP‐IP) scores, metatarsal length, complications were recorded. Statistical comparison was performed using the paired t‐student test for pre‐ and postoperative AOFAS MTP‐IP scores.

Results

Patients were followed up for 55 ± 10.8 months. The mean length of the fourth metatarsal bone was 49.9 ± 2.9 mm preoperatively. The mean metatarsal shortage was 18.8 ± 3.1 mm. The mean lengthening achieved was 19.8 ± 3.3 mm, with a lengthening ratio of 39.7% ± 6.6%. The lengthened callus ossified completely at 3–4 months after operation. All patients were satisfied with the results of lengthening. The AOFAS scores were improved significantly from 83.7 ± 4.2 preoperatively to 93.2 ± 2.7 postoperatively (t = −10.27, p < 0.001). One patient with traumatic metatarsophalangeal joint subluxation was treated by joint reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. One patient had metatarsophalangeal joint release and Kirschner wire fixation due to flexion contracture. Pin tract infections were controlled by wound care and antibiotics in 6 patients. All patients had no nonunion, necrosis of toes, and sensory disturbance of toes.

Conclusion

Metatarsal lengthening by minimally invasive osteotomy with external fixator had satisfactory results in the treatment of congenital brachymetatarsia.
AtCIPK20 regulates microtubule stability to mediate stomatal closure under drought stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Tao , Zhou Xuna , Wang Yixiao , Liu Xueqin , Fan Yudong , Li Ruiqi , Zhang Huiyong , Xu Yufang
Published: August 2024

Drought stress is a common abiotic challenge that profoundly impacts plant growth and development. As sessile organisms, plants rely on various physiological and morphological adaptations to cope with drought conditions. The CIPK (calcineurin B‐like protein‐interacting protein kinase) family proteins play a pivotal role in mediating plant responses to abiotic stress through modulation of cellular membrane events via the CBL‐CIPK complex. However, reports documenting the CIPKs’ regulation of non‐membrane events are scant. In this study, we discovered a novel subcellular localisation pattern of the AtCIPK20 protein of Arabidopsis, specifically to cortical microtubules (cMT), which is distinct from previously reported localisation patterns of plant CIPKs. AtCIPK20 regulates ABA‐induced loss of cMT organisation in guard cells, thereby facilitating stomatal closure, mitigating leaf water loss, and protecting plants from drought stress in Arabidopsis. The C‐terminal regulatory domain of AtCIPK20 governs its cMT targeting, whereas the interaction of AtCIPK20 with its CBL partners disrupts this localisation. Notably, the cMT targeting characteristic of AtCIPK20 is not exclusive, as several other CIPK members in Arabidopsis, maize, and rice exhibit similar localisation patterns. These findings broaden our current understanding of the role of plant CIPK members in abiotic stress resistance and suggest that future exploration of CIPK molecular functions should adopt a more comprehensive perspective.
Theoretical Study on the Disparate Spatial Arrangement of 3’,4’,5,7-tetrahydroxy-3-flavene Towards Jack Bean Urease Enzyme Active Site
Authors: Yaakob Mohd Hafiz , Ab Ghani Zaidi , Mohd Fauzi Shukor Sanim , Shuhaime Norlin , Syed Zuber Sharifah Zati Hanani , Lee Sin Ang
Published: August 2024

Urease enzyme plays crucial role in the hydrolysis of urea. Excessive hydrolysis of urea can have significant impacts on the environment. In recent years, there has been growing interest in identifying natural compounds that can inhibit urease activity. Flavonoids, phytochemical compounds present in plants, have shown promising potential as urease inhibitors. Studies have revealed that certain flavonoids, such as 3’,4’,5,7-tetrahydroxy-3-flavene, abbreviated as H4FLA for convenient, exhibit potent inhibition of urease, surpassing the efficacy of well-known synthetic inhibitors. In the present study, we report quantum mechanical calculations that mainly investigate the interaction of H4FLA towards urease at disparate spatial arrangement. It was found that the most favourable position between H4FLA and active site of urease has interaction energy of -3.80 eV. Topology analysis revealed that there is no typical covalent bond found between atoms involved in the interaction. Only weak interactions were detected. The hydroxyl groups with highest (negative) local potential throughout the structure, contribute mainly to the formation of non-covalent interaction with the nickel centers, indicating their potential involvement in the inhibitory activity of flavonoids against urease.
Fuzzy and Neutrosophic Cognitive Maps Analysis of the Emergence of COVID-19 Post-vaccination
Authors: Abd Rhani Norarida , Mazlan Nurul Eylia Maisarah , Mohd Azhan Nur Amani Izzati , Mohamad Siti Nurul Fitriah , Alias Suriana
Published: August 2024

After several years of the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) around the world occurred, World Health Organization (WHO) has stimulated great efforts to develop a vaccine against the COVID-19. Therefore, all of citizen is obliged to take the vaccine for precaution. However, the vaccine is only one step to reduce the spreadness of COVID-19, where the appearance of COVID-19 can occur after vaccination. Some peoples do not understand the vaccine function where it is used to prevent spreading COVID-19. This research analysed the emergence of COVID-19 post-vaccination by using the method of fuzzy and neutrosophic cognitive maps. The collected data from an interview with two experts called as a concept and from there the directed graph and adjacency matrix are constructed. Multiplication between vectors and matrices are repeated until the fixed point in finding the hidden pattern for all the concepts for COVID-19 post-vaccination obtained. The results obtained from this study are useful to all to know the factors caused of the epidemic after vaccinated as well as the procedures to be followed to protect from this disease.
Improving Stock Price Forecasting Accuracy with Stochastic Multilayer Perceptron
Authors: Patrick Vincent Assunta Malar , Salleh Hassilah
Published: August 2024

The stock market operates in a stochastic environment, making accurate price forecasting challenging.  To address this issue, a stochastic multilayer perceptron (S-MLP) model has been developed to simulate the stock market's stochastic nature.  By incorporating a Gaussian process into the sigmoid activation function, this model incorporates stochasticity into the traditional multilayer perceptron (MLP).  As the perturbation factor, a stochastic sigmoid activation function (SAF) with a volatility estimator is used. Although S-MLP has demonstrated superiority over MLP, there is still room for improvement in terms of forecasting precision. In this study, we propose S-MLP with a trainable perturbation factor (S-MLPT), an improved variant of S-MLP.  SAF employs the Yang-Zhang volatility estimator as the perturbation factor. The proposed model first employed MLP, and all the parameters were trained.  After freezing the parameters, S-MLP is used to train the perturbation factor in the SAF. To evaluate the predictive performance of the models, MLP, S-MLP, and S-MLPT are used to predict the one day ahead highest stock price of four counters listed in Bursa Malaysia. As an evaluation metric, the coefficient of determination is utilised, and the relative percentage improvement of the models is calculated to determine their superiority.  The results demonstrated that S-MLP outperforms MLP by effectively minimizing the loss function and converging towards a better local or global minimum during training.  In conclusion, S-MLPT exhibits even better performance than S-MLP, with relative percentage improvements of 0.14%, 15.45%, and 0.48% for counters 0166.KL, 2445.KL, and 4707.KL, respectively.