bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What impacts the productivity performance of government construction projects?
Authors: Zhan Wenting , Zhou Wenmei , Liu Jinchan , Guo Yubo
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Previous research has advanced in two-stage construction project productivity (CPP) evaluation by integrating site efficiency (SE) in the delivery and utilisation effectiveness (UE) in the post-delivery stages. The literature has separately addressed the factors affecting these three constructs. However, the interrelationships among them are rarely discussed together. This study aims to systematically identify the influencing factors of CPP, SE and UE and disentangle interrelationships among the three constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first reviews the literature about the two-stage project productivity evaluation framework for government construction projects. Then this paper proposes hypotheses regarding the relationships between the three constructs and identifies influencing factors associated with the constructs. Based on questionnaire survey from over 200 government construction project professionals in China, the structural equation modelling is adopted to validate the hypotheses.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights that CPP can be directly influenced by UE to a large extent but indirectly impacted by SE through its effects on UE. The findings indicate that CPP is not a simple sum of SE and UE, and consequently reveals the complex, non-linear and indirect relationships between SE and CPP.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should further extend the timeframe boundary to merge the pre-delivery stage (e.g. design and planning), findings of which may propose a more generalised understanding and reduce the bias resulting from pre-delivery activities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to construction facility management literature by explaining the mediating role of UE on the relationship between SE and CPP. Therefore, this paper offers practitioners an integrated management logic in strategically combining project and facility management into government project management.
Going green at work: a psychometric assessment of the green innovative work behaviour scale
Authors: Dahiya Rinki
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine and validate the psychometric properties of the Green Innovative Work Behaviour (G-IWB) measure, aiming to enhance its conceptualisation and reliable assessment in the context of increasing environmental awareness.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this research were collected using a survey method across three distinct samples and analysed to evaluate the multidimensionality, validity and reliability of the G-IWB scale.

Findings

The thorough assessment of the G-IWB scale provided critical insights into its psychometric robustness. Results confirmed the reliability and validity of the G-IWB scale, featuring a correlated five-factor model and higher-order structure, encapsulating 23 items that comprehensively reflect the dimensions of G-IWB.

Practical implications

The findings of this study offer substantial practical value for hospitality organisations, providing a reliable tool for measuring, assessing and fostering G-IWB. This research contributes to the expanding literature on green innovation by focusing on individual behaviours and enriching theoretical models with data-driven insights for advancing sustainable practices within the hospitality sector.

Originality/value

This research makes a significant contribution by introducing a multidimensional psychometric tool for evaluating G-IWB. It addresses the scholarly tendency to focus on unidimensional G-IWB measurements, thereby advancing a nuanced understanding that broadens the scope of G-IWB.
Confucianism and corporate digital transformation: evidence from China
Authors: Chen Yuansheng , Peng Cheng
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine how Confucianism influences corporate digital transformation and explore the underlying mechanisms. Meanwhile, this study also seeks to analyze whether the relationship between Confucianism and corporate digital transformation significantly varies under different contextual conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2012 to 2021 to empirically examine how Confucianism influences corporate digital transformation and validate the mechanisms of informal hierarchies, agency costs and financing constraints. Moreover, it explores the moderating effects of political connection and overseas culture. Subsample regressions assess the influence of corporate internationalization, property rights and regional marketization.

Findings

The findings of this study highlight the crucial role of Confucianism in driving corporate digital transformation. Confucianism contributes to corporate digital transformation by clarifying informal hierarchies, reducing agency costs and alleviating financing constraints. Nevertheless, political connection and overseas culture weaken the positive impact of Confucianism on corporate digital transformation. Further evidence indicates that Confucianism's influence on digital transformation is particularly pronounced in environments characterized by limited internationalization, heightened marketization and among non-state-owned enterprises.

Originality/value

This study elucidates the role of informal institutions in driving corporate digital transformation, enriching the literatures on the intersection of Confucianism and corporate digitalization. Our findings offer a novel perspective and contribute to management practice by exploring the mechanisms and contextual conditions.
AI-driven valuation: a new era for real estate appraisal
Authors: Topraklı Abdurrahman Yağmur
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in real estate valuation, analysing its potential to enhance accuracy, efficiency and transparency in the appraisal process and examines the implications of this technological shift for various stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a comprehensive literature review approach, drawing upon existing research in real estate, computer science and related fields. A systematic analysis of scholarly publications and industry trends was conducted to examine the underlying technologies, diverse applications, potential benefits, inherent limitations and future trends associated with AI-driven valuation models, including machine learning and deep learning methods.

Findings

The study reveals that AI-powered valuation models offer significant advantages over traditional appraisal methods, including enhanced accuracy, increased efficiency, reduced costs and improved risk management. However, critical challenges related to data bias, algorithmic transparency (the “black box” problem), and the need for human oversight must be addressed to ensure responsible and effective AI implementation.

Originality/value

This paper provides insights into the transformative potential of AI in real estate valuation for a wide range of stakeholders. Real estate professionals can gain a better understanding of how AI can enhance their decision-making processes, improve efficiency and mitigate risk. Appraisers will benefit from the paper’s analysis of evolving skillsets required in the AI era, while lenders and investors will gain a clearer understanding of how AI-driven valuation can strengthen risk assessment and portfolio management. Policymakers can utilize this research to inform the development of ethical guidelines and regulations for AI adoption in real estate appraisal.
The role of bank diversity in the banking development-income inequality nexus. Regional evidence from Italy
Authors: Barra Cristian , D’Aniello Christian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The function of banking development in reducing income inequality is critical because financial institutions can grant loans, stimulating prospective productive investments. Based on this promise, the aim of this study is to fill the vacuum by particularly evaluating the influence of banking development, as proxied by bank cost efficiency estimated using a parametric approach, on income inequality.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the impact of banking development on income inequality, the authors use data from 20 Italian regions from 2004 to 2017. Particular attention will be made to the consequences that the varied composition of the Italian banking structure, namely, the presence of cooperative and non-cooperative banks, may have on income inequality. To do this, the authors use a generalized method of moments (GMM) regression on panel data to address the endogeneity problem that exists between banking development and income inequality.

Findings

Evidence reveals that increasing bank development plays an important impact in reducing income inequality, with cooperative banks faring best. A set of robustness tests generally validates our empirical findings and brings relevant policy implications.

Originality/value

A “qualitative” measure, such as cost efficiency, which is computed using a parametric technique, has been used as a proxy for banking development to analyse the relationship between banking development and income inequality. The contribution, in particular, focuses on how bank diversity influences the nexus between banking development and income inequality in a homogenous context.
User experience and continuous use of block-chain technologies among freight forwarding firms in Ghana: a mediated-moderation model
Authors: Hevi Stewart Selase
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the mediated-moderation roles of adhocracy culture (ADC) and business ecosystem learning between user experience (UX) and continuous use of block-chain technologies (CUBT) among freight firms in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A stratified sampling technique was used in the selection of 327 employees of freight firms. This paper employs regression analysis to examine the hypothesized paths.

Findings

The findings show that ADC moderates the partially mediated role of the business ecosystem between technology UX and CUBT.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the cross-sectional design adopted, the study findings do not reflect the changing dynamics of employees of freight firms over a long period of time in Ghana.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first in maritime transport literature to explore the relevance of BCT among freight firms in an emerging economy.
Is Social Media a Democratic Forum for Public Accountability in Times of Crisis? The Brazilian Government's Response to the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Dos Santos Tassiani Aparecida , Lopes Iago França
Published: December 2024

The COVID‐19 crisis has troubled the world. In the Brazilian context, many people struggled financially to survive a period of social isolation. Therefore, in the surge of the pandemic, making a decision or forming an opinion about government decisions was very complex. Social media (SM) plays an important role in modern society as a source of information and a potentially democratic instrument for dialogic communication and public accountability. Thus, this research investigates SM as a forum for democratic accountability during Brazil's first wave of the COVID‐19 crisis. The methodological procedures comprise an analysis of three events concerning COVID‐19 in São Paulo, namely the social isolation mandates from March to July 2020. We gathered, coded, and analysed 970 comments from the São Paulo Government's official Facebook page. We found that the disclosure of information was limited, and users interacted with each other, but the Government did not dialogue with citizens. In the aftermath of the COVID‐19 crisis, we reflected on SM's potential and barriers to achieving democratic accountability in uncertain and risky times, particularly regarding information disclosure, SM and users’ interactions, and the spread of relevant information. We conclude that SM is a forum to achieve greater accountability and responsibility on the part of public managers and governors. However, it is limited by what kind of information is conveyed, whether users get the responses and information they need from the official channel, and SM's political and democratic aspects, which are multifaceted and complex.
Exploring occupational well‐being profiles, outcomes, and predictors among Chinese teachers: A mixed‐methods approach using latent profile and decision tree analysis
Authors: Gao Xin , Zhou Xiaolu , Leong Frederick T. L.
Published: December 2024

Understanding the varied profiles of occupational well‐being, their outcomes, and predictors is key to formulating effective strategies for enhancing teachers' occupational health and well‐being. This study employed latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify distinct occupational well‐being profiles and their outcomes among 366 Chinese teachers, and decision tree analysis to explore the factors predicting each profile. The results showed three occupational well‐being profiles: burnout, engaged, and burnout‐engaged. The “engaged” group exhibited normal ranges for depression and stress, along with mild anxiety. The “burnout” group demonstrated moderate depression and stress, coupled with severe anxiety. The “burnout‐engaged” group was near the threshold of mild depression and moderate anxiety. The result of the decision tree model revealed that marital status, teaching experience, income, role as a class teacher, school type, and working hours significantly influenced these occupational well‐being profiles. Specific combinations of variables were associated with each occupational well‐being profile, offering a nuanced understanding of the risky and protective factors for teacher occupational well‐being. By identifying distinct occupational well‐being profiles among Chinese teachers and their outcomes, and elucidating the key predictors and their interrelations, this study provides insights into how to quickly screen for teachers in need of help at work, and how to design targeted interventions for different teachers.
Changes in insulin sensitivity and gut peptides 8 and 52 weeks after bariatric surgery or low‐calorie diet
Authors: Lowe Adam C. , Reijnders Dorien , Tam Charmaine S. , Redman Leanne M. , Beyl Robbie , LeBlanc Karl A. , Hausmann Mark G. , Albaugh Vance L. , Greenway Frank L. , Ravussin Eric
Published: December 2024

The endocrine consequences of weight loss by bariatric surgery (BS) and caloric restriction are not fully understood but contribute to variable improvements in insulin sensitivity and cardiometabolic health. This study compared changes in insulin sensitivity and plasma concentrations of gut peptides 8 weeks and 1 year after BS and a low‐calorie diet (LCD). Nineteen female patients with obesity self‐selected BS (gastric bypass [n = 5] or sleeve gastrectomy [n = 7]) or LCD (n = 7) in this parallel‐arm, prospective observational study. We assessed insulin sensitivity via a two‐step hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp (20 and 80 mU/min/m2 insulin). Plasma glucose, insulin, and gut peptides were measured around a mixed meal tolerance test (400 kcal). Visual analogue scales (VAS) were used to rate subjective appetite sensations. All assessments were conducted at baseline and after 8 weeks and 1 year of intervention. Whole‐body insulin sensitivity was unchanged 8 weeks after the intervention. One year after surgery, insulin sensitivity at both 20 and 80 mU/m2/min insulin infusion doses increased with BS weight loss (−33.8% ± 1.4% body weight) but was unchanged in LCD with small weight loss (−3.7% ± 2.0% body weight). Postprandial total PYY increased more following BS while total and acylated ghrelin decreased more following BS compared to LCD. Hunger decreased and fullness increased with BS compared to LCD (p = .037; p = .010, respectively). Insulin sensitivity was improved only 1 year after BS, despite significant weight loss after 8 weeks. Changes in gut peptides after BS paralleled reduced hunger and increased fullness. Most improvements in cardiometabolic health were related to weight loss.
G.O.Joe: A new non‐commercial software tool for the processing of LA‐ICP‐MS trace element data
Authors: Altenberger Florian , Krause Joachim , Auer Thomas , Auer Alexander , Berndt Jasper
Published: December 2024

A common problem of trace element measurements by LA‐ICP‐MS is the existence of interferences that cannot be resolved instrumentally. The software G.O.Joe is developed to calculate trace element mass fractions in solid samples analysed by LA‐ICP‐MS, offering the opportunity to correct for isobaric interference (including mass bias) and abundance sensitivity. Designed as a platform‐independent web application, G.O.Joe is written in the Dart programming language and runs on all web browsers supported by Flutter (i.e., Chrome, Safari, Edge, Firefox) without the need for installation. G.O.Joe is freely accessible from any computer with an internet connection to facilitate immediate data evaluation and the efficient processing of large datasets (> 400 analyses). G.O.Joe features an intuitive user interface that simplifies the selection of peak and background signals, import of instrument settings and reference material compositions to convert the measured raw signals into element mass fractions. Key functions of G.O.Joe are presented by processing the analysis of tungstates and silicates (i.e., scheelite and garnet) including specific correction methods to demonstrate their large effect on interfered masses/isotopes achievable with only little effort. This study introduces G.O.Joe as a simple, time‐efficient and flexible software to significantly improve data quality in various trace element studies utilising LA‐ICP‐MS.
A head‐to‐head comparison of four grading systems for oral epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Hankinson Paul , Clark Mollie , Walsh Hannah , Khurram Syed Ali
Published: December 2024

Aims

Oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) carries a risk of malignant transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma. Clinical risk stratification for these patients is challenging, and reliant upon histological grading. The World Health Organisation (WHO) grading system is the current gold standard, although the binary system, two‐ and six‐point prognostic models have also been proposed. This study assesses the interobserver agreement and malignant transformation outcomes for these four grading systems.

Methods and results

Up to 5 years of outcome data were collected for this retrospective cohort of 137 patients. Archived slides were reviewed by three pathologists, and grades for the WHO, binary, two‐ and six‐point systems were assigned. Interobserver agreement was assessed with Light's kappa coefficient. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression survival analyses were used to assess the correlation of each grading system with malignant transformation. The WHO, binary, two‐ and six‐point systems had kappa coefficients of 0.42, 0.31, 0.17 and 0.41, respectively. All grading systems stratified lesions by malignant transformation risk, except the two‐point model. Moderate OED (WHO) did not show an increased risk of malignant transformation, while severe OED had a hazard ratio (HR) of 13.7 (P = 0.02). The high‐risk category for the binary and six‐point systems had HRs of 4.67 (P = 0.03) and 5.28 (P = 0.03), respectively.

Conclusions

The interobserver agreement of the WHO, binary and six‐point systems is comparable. The six‐point and binary systems provided the most useful risk stratification. This study highlights the potential value of the six‐point prognostic model for OED grading, which has comparable performance with the current gold standard.
Efficacy of Erythritol Air Polishing for Inducing Initial Healing of Shallow‐to‐Moderate Periodontal Pockets and Restoring Gingival Crevicular Fluid β‐Catenin, 8‐Hydroxy‐Deoxyguanosine and Total Antioxidant Capacity: A Split‐Mouth Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Aljaberi Muhsin , Abdulbaqi Hayder Raad
Published: December 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of subgingival erythritol powder air polishing (EPAP) for inducing initial healing of shallow‐to‐moderate periodontal pockets and its effect on gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) β‐catenin, 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels.

Methods

This randomised, split‐mouth clinical trial involved 22 periodontitis patients. Periodontal pockets (4–6 mm) were treated either by scaling and root planing (control) or EPAP followed by subgingival instrumentation 1 month later (test). Clinical periodontal variables were recorded, and GCF samples were collected from the selected sites at baseline, week 4 and week 12 visits. The GCF levels of β‐catenin, 8‐OHdG and TAC were estimated via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Compared with those at baseline, both groups showed non‐different significant reductions in clinical variables at week 4 and week 12 after treatment. GCF β‐catenin and 8‐OHdG levels at both the test and control sites significantly decreased at week 4 and continued to further decrease at week 12. A greater reduction in GCF β‐catenin was detected at the control sites at the week 12 visit. Conversely, GCF TAC was only significantly increased at week 12 in both groups, but the difference between the groups was not significant.

Conclusion

Using of EPAP has the potential to induce initial healing in shallow‐to‐moderate pockets as it offers non‐different changes in clinical outcomes and GCF biomarkers compared to conventional method.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05798871
Paleoecological History of Maplecrest Fen, Catskill Mountains (NY, USA) From Deglaciation to the Industrial Age
Authors: Peteet Dorothy M. , Ibe Ralph , Stone Emily , Zajac Catherine , Chang Clara
Published: December 2024

Aim

To develop the palaeoecological and palaeoclimatic history of Maplecrest Fen, Greene County, NY.

Location

Catskill Mountains, New York.

Time Period

13,500 calendar years to present (ybp, present = 1950).

Taxon

Angiosperms, gymnosperms and bryophytes.

Methods

We used pollen and spore analysis, macrofossil analysis, loss‐on‐ignition (LOI) and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of a 7.8 m sediment core from the Fen along with AMS radiocarbon dates retrieved from the identified terrestrial macrofossils.

Results

Late‐glacial and Holocene vegetational change from ice withdrawal reveals the development of a shallow lake and then fen to the present. The boreal spruce (Picea), fir (Abies) and paper birch ((Betula papyrifera) pollen signature near the base of the core (Zone M2) suggest a Younger Dryas (YD) signal overtopping warmer Allerod aged basal sediments. The early Holocene white pine (Pinus strobus) is followed by increases in hemlock (Tsuga) and beech (Fagus), ushering in a moister climate. About 5200 ybp drought is indicated by the well‐known hemlock biostratigraphic decline in the Northeast. Drepanocladus moss and stonewort (Chara) shift to sedges (Carex) and violets (Viola) locally present. For the next 5000 years, the vegetation will remain relatively stable with lower temperatures suggested by the return of spruce and fir. Ragweed (Ambrosia) rise along with other weedy taxa marks European settlement near the top 50 cm of the core, along with a striking increase in anthropogenic lead, as seen using X‐ray fluorescence.

Main Conclusions

Deglaciation began in the Catskills at a high elevation about 13,500 years ago and recession of ice from the Laurentide margin proceeded at about 0.1 km/year. Temperature shifts promoted changes in the boreal forest including warming and cooling, and drought and wetter intervals both appear in the Holocene history but do not appear to be easily forecast as climate continues to warm.
Integrated Diagnostic Approach Using qPCR, ddPCR and LAMP‐Based Molecular Tools for Two Leafhopper Species Identification (Nephotettix cincticeps and Nephotettix virescens)
Authors: Jeong Minkyu , Khan Murtaza , Rahman Md‐Mafizur , Kabir Moniruzzaman , Choi Nakjung , Jeon JaeBuhm , Kim Juil
Published: December 2024

Accurate identification of the leafhopper species Nephotettix cincticeps and N. virescens is necessary because they feed on phloem sap and transmit plant pathogens including viruses that can cause significant damage to rice plants. Initially, we examined their physical traits using a microscope and a specific camera and observed differences between the two species. To further validate these distinctions on a molecular level, we designed primers based on mitochondrial genome sequences obtained from the NCBI database. The primers were effectively used in general PCR and loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) tests. General PCR was successfully performed at 61°C using NC_mt5117F33 and NC_mt5438B33 primers for N. cincticeps and NV_mt3089F31, NV_mt3360B31 primers for N. virescens. The effectiveness of the selected primers was validated using quantitative PCR (qPCR) on the pooled gDNA samples and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The best conditions for LAMP were 61°C and time 45 min, resulting in the most favourable amplification outcomes. Additionally, LAMP enables diagnosis at the individual level in the field, and qPCR and ddPCR can be used for relative or absolute quantification, even from pooled gDNA from multiple species. This study emphasises the importance of combining traditional and molecular techniques in primary pest species diagnostics to ensure precise and timely pest control, which can contribute to improved pest management strategies.
Systematic and Bibliometric Review of Neuroeconomics and Neurofinance Research: Current Status, Thematic Trends, and Future Directions
Authors: Bayramoğlu Gökberk , Öztürk Oğuzhan
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study is to provide a systematic and bibliometric overview of neuroeconomics and neurofinance research. The study analyzes 507 articles published in peer‐reviewed journals in the Web of Science (WoS) database spanning from 1994 to February 2024. The research is conducted in two phases; initially, a performance analysis, followed by a science mapping analysis. Through performance analysis, we pinpoint significant authors, notable journals, leading countries, and influential articles within these research fields. With the science mapping, we utilize co‐citation, bibliographic coupling, and co‐word analyses to uncover the thematic and intellectual framework of research in neuroeconomics and neurofinance. Overall, we reveal prominent research themes, including reward, decision‐making under risk, value, game theory, and intertemporal choices. Classical decision‐making theory divides the decision‐making process into three interconnected stages: identifying options, evaluating them, and making a choice. The research themes we revealed through science mapping analysis constitute different aspects of the evaluation stage. Accordingly, our results suggest that neuroeconomics and neurofinance research has mainly concentrated on the evaluation stage (and, to a lesser extent, the choice stage with value theme), while the process of identifying options has been relatively understudied, despite its vital significance in less structured, real‐world situations. Alongside revealing research themes, we ultimately spotlight research directions within neuroeconomics and neurofinance.
Recurrent Swarms of Planktonic Shrimp Luciferidae De Haan, 1849 (Order: Decapoda) in the Neritic Waters of Tamil Nadu, Southeast Coast of India
Authors: Sathishkumar R. S. , Kumar B. Charan , Muthukumar C. , Logesh N. , Sivadas Sanitha K. , Ramu K. , Murthy M. V. Ramana
Published: December 2024

Luciferidae (Decapoda) are an important component of mesozooplankton in pelagic food webs. This study investigated the spatiotemporal distribution and frequency of Luciferidae swarms along the Tamil Nadu coast, as observed during coastal monitoring cruises conducted between 2019 and 2022. Data were collected on various hydrobiological factors, including surface water temperature, salinity, chlorophyll a, zooplankton biomass, and the abundance of other mesozooplankton (such as copepods, cladocerans, and others) across eight locations in the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu, India. Salinity values were generally low (< 30 PSU) throughout the study period, except in September 2019. Microscopic analysis identified Belzebub hanseni Nobili, 1905, as the only organism responsible for swarm formation, with its occurrence peaking in January 2022. During this period, B. hanseni reached a maximum abundance of 3294 ind. m−3 for adults and 4056 ind. m−3 for larvae, together contributing approximately 27% of the total zooplankton abundance. Swarms of B. hanseni were observed a total of seven times over the course of the study, correlating with periods of low sea surface temperature and high food availability. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between the abundance of copepods and B. hanseni (r = 0.84; p < 0.001), suggesting that both groups may be influenced by similar environmental factors, such as physical transport, food availability, and favorable conditions. This study indicates that the frequent swarming of B. hanseni in the nearshore waters of the Tamil Nadu coast is largely driven by food availability and optimal environmental conditions, including water temperature and monsoonal influences. The findings also suggest that geographical features, such as mangrove habitats, may contribute to the occurrence of B. hanseni swarms in this region.
Simultaneous Treatment of Two Severe Acute Intoxication and Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Zappulo Fulvia , Martano Laura , Ullo Ines , Catalano Veronica , Donini Sara , Scrivo Anna , Chiocchini Anna Laura Croci , La Manna Gaetano
Published: December 2024

Extracorporeal therapies could be required for treatment of life‐threatening severe acute intoxication. We present the case of an 82‐year‐old patient admitted to our Nephrology Unit because of metformin‐associated lactic acidosis (MALA) and acute kidney injury (AKI stage III AKIN criteria). The patient also presented severe intoxication of digoxin and apixaban. The electrocardiogram presented a junctional escape rhythm with atrial fibrillation (AF) and lateral ST‐segment depression that, despite fab‐fragments' administration, has not regress. Due to patient's hemodynamic instability, an 8 h of sustained low‐efficiency diafiltration (SLED) was prescribed. This treatment allowed to reduce serum concentration of apixaban and digoxin. Similarly, patient's hemodynamic and ECG trace improved with the resolution of junctional rhythm and persistence of AF. Even if continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is the first choice in critical ill patients, SLED could represent a valid option for patients without indication to ICU.
Financing and Provision of Long‐Term Care in Europe: Reflections on Intergenerational Solidarity in Care for Older People
Authors: Simmons Cassandra , Ilinca Stefania , Kadi Selma , Comas‐Herrera Adelina
Published: December 2024

Increasing demand for long‐term care (LTC) in Europe amid population ageing has challenged how states will evolve to respond to changing needs and questions the younger generations' willingness to support future care for older people. Using novel data from the InCARE survey (September 2021–March 2022), we investigate age‐related attitudes towards the family's and state's role in financing and organising LTC, and whether caregiving experience or care regime type mediates these differences. Ordered logistic regressions indicate upward intergenerational solidarity of younger adults towards public responsibility relative to middle‐aged individuals across countries, but also a stronger perceived obligation to provide care, despite potential negative career impacts. Caregiving experience mediates attitudes to informal care among mid‐aged individuals, driven by intensity in care. Differences in attitudes across care regimes associate with differing levels of state generosity, where individuals in states with less responsibility for LTC are more supportive of the family's role in financing and providing care. Intergenerational differences in attitudes emerge predominantly where state support is less generous and greater responsibility is placed on the family. Our findings suggest the younger generation is generally likely to be supportive of a sustained role of the state in protecting against risks associated with LTC. Support for the state relative to familial obligations is strong among all age groups and across care regimes, suggesting LTC is recognised as a social risk deserving of coverage under social protection schemes and points to the substantial envisioned role of the state in protecting against finance and well‐being risks associated with care in future.
Late Mesozoic intracontinental reactivation of the southern Altai, Central Asia
Authors: He Zhiyuan , Song Shida , Wang Fujun , Zhu Wenbin , Shen Xiaoming , Glorie Stijn , Liang Yong , Zhong Linglin , De Grave Johan
Published: December 2024

The Altai orogenic belt is a main constituent of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, and serves as a crucial site for studying strain propagation from the Meso-Cenozoic plate margins to the Eurasian interior. The ranges of the Altai Mountains have undergone multiple reactivation events during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic, but the full extent of these events is not yet fully understood. To constrain the thermo-tectonic history of the southern Altai orogenic belt of Northwest China, apatite fission-track (AFT) and apatite (U-Th)/He (AHe) thermochronological methods were used to study 29 pre-Mesozoic basement rocks from several key localities, including the Altay, Xibodu, Fuyun, and Qinghe regions. Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous AFT and AHe ages were found in the low-elevation Xibodu region, which has been characterized by slow-to-moderate rock cooling since the Jurassic. However, rock samples from all other regions investigated are characterized by comparable Late Cretaceous AFT and AHe ages. Inverse thermal history modeling results reveal moderate-to-rapid upper crustal cooling in the mid- to Late Cretaceous (ca. 110−70 Ma), which is interpreted to be related to distant plate-margin processes (e.g., the Cimmerian collisions). These findings, combined with previously published data, indicate that Late Cretaceous exhumation was widespread in the western Altai orogenic belt, including in the Chinese and Siberian (Russian) parts of the Altai region. As in many other areas of Central Asia, no Cenozoic low-temperature thermochronological signal was detected in this study. We propose that Cenozoic deformation indeed occurred in the southern Altai, but the magnitude of associated denudation was insufficient to have replaced the Cretaceous cooling signals.
Glacial isostatic adjustment driven by asymmetric ice sheet melt during the Last Interglacial causes multiple local sea-level peaks
Authors: Creel Roger C. , Austermann Jacqueline
Published: December 2024

Global mean sea-level (GMSL) change during the Last Interglacial (LIG, 129−116 ka) gives perspective on how ice sheets respond to warming. Observations of multiple peaks in LIG relative sea level (RSL) records, combined with an assumption that the Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) collapsed prior to the LIG, have been used to infer Greenland and Antarctic ice sheet melt histories as well as oscillations in LIG GMSL. However, evidence for an LIS outburst flood at ca. 125 ka and extensive early-LIG Antarctic melt suggests that Laurentide remnants may have persisted longer into the LIG than typically thought even as Antarctic melt accelerated. Here, we explore the effect of concurrent early-Holocene Laurentide persistence and Antarctic collapse on glacial isostatic adjustment and sea level. In our models, we hold GMSL constant at present levels (i.e., GMSL = 0) from 128 ka to 117 ka by balancing excess Laurentide ice with early-LIG Antarctic melt. We find that due to glacial isostatic adjustment, this synchronous but asymmetric ice change causes multiple RSL peaks, separated by ∼4.2 ± 2.5 m of RSL fall near North America and ∼1.3 ± 0.7 m around the Indian Ocean. This spatial pattern resembles observations. These results show that multiple peaks in LIG RSL could have occurred with asymmetric ice changes between the Northern and Southern Hemisphere that sum to little, if any, change in GMSL. Our work highlights the need for LIG modeling studies to consider that dynamic cryospheric changes can occur even with near-constant GMSL.
Fish Distribution in Lacustrine and Riverine Biotopes of Bratsk Reservoir Based on the Results of Hydroacoustic Surveys
Authors: Gerasimov Yu. V. , Borisenko E. S. , Pavlov D. D. , Shlyapkin I. V. , Tsvetkov A. I. , Pavlov D. S.
Published: December 2024

Fish distribution in different areas of Bratsk Reservoir has been studied using hydroacoustic equipment. The average abundance of fish decreases (r = –0.70; p < 0.05; R2 = 0.49) from the near-dam reach (214 ± 34 ind./ha) to the water area in the upper reaches of the reservoir (113 ± 43 ind./ha). A similar relationship is observed in the dynamics of the abundance of early juveniles and the immature fish population. However, such relationship has not been found in fish with a size of more than >100 mm, which with a low abundance are relatively evenly distributed along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir (10.5 ± 6.6 ind./ha). The common perch (Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758) is the most abundant species in the reservoir, its highest concentrations are recorded in the lower lacustrine part of the reservoir (139 ± 22 ind./ha). Less abundant cyprinids (Cyprinidae) (41 ± 15 ind./ha) and whitefishes (Salmonidae, Coregoninae) (12 ± 4 ind./ha) are more evenly distributed along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir. Temperature stratification of the water column is an important factor in the ecological differentiation of the fish population in the reservoir. The major part of the ichthyomass consisting of relatively warm-water fish species from the families Percidae and Cyprinidae (common roach (Rutilus rutilus (Linnaeus, 1758) and common bream (Abramis brama (Linnaeus, 1758)) is concentrated in the warming up epilimnion. The fish population in the cold hypolimnion consists of single individuals of the Baikal omul (Coregonus autumnalis (Georgi, 1775)) and peled (C. peled (Gmelin, 1789)). Transverse distribution of fish depends on the presence of a runoff flow. At relatively high flow rates, fish begin to avoid the midstream part in the studied sites of the reservoir and concentrate in the floodplain areas (R2 = 0.54; p < 0.0001).
Transformer-Based Model for Predicting Trajectories in Autonomous Vehicle-Pedestrian Conflicts: A Proactive Approach to Road Safety
Authors: Shoman Maged , Sayed Tarek , Gargoum Suliman
Published: December 2024

Accurate prediction of pedestrian trajectories is crucial for conflict detection in autonomous vehicle (AV) operations. Existing models like Constant Velocity and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks have limitations. This paper introduces a Transformer-based model for predicting AV and pedestrian trajectories in urban conflict scenarios. Using attention mechanisms, the model dynamically weights features to improve predictions. Trained on the nuPlan dataset with over 1,500 hours of driving data, the Transformer model outperformed Constant Velocity and LSTM models across prediction horizons at three seconds. In Boston, it achieved an Average Displacement Error (ADE) of 2.071 meters for AV prediction, compared to 5.892 meters for Constant Velocity and 6.769 meters for LSTM. The model accurately predicts evasive actions; identifying 62.2% of AVs would accelerate and 41.6% would swerve in response to pedestrians in Boston. In Singapore, Transformers accurately predicted that pedestrians often swerve and accelerate, causing AVs to slow down without altering course.
Research on the Analysis Model of Regional Economic Growth Differences in China Based on Big Data and Intelligent Algorithms
Authors: Xu Xiangjun , Liang Fa
Published: December 2024

China’s growing economy contributes significantly to worldwide consumption. Economic rebalancing promises opportunities for manufacturing exporters, and that can weaken commodity demand in the long term. China exerts increasing influence on emerging countries through trade, investment, and ideas. China faces several important economic issues that can hinder future development, including distortive economic policies that have evolved into an overreliance on fixed investment and exports for economic growth, government assistance for state-owned businesses, and a weak banking system. Building an information infrastructure and enhancing the technical level and application capability of big data (BD) remain under the purview of the Chinese Government. Artificial intelligence (AI)-based hybrid artificial neural network (HANN) might boost total factor productivity by a large margin, influencing many sectors in China in ways that official statistics would miss, including changes to the labor market, investment patterns, and overall productivity. Hence, BD-HANN has a coefficient of variation, quantity graph analysis, standard deviation, and entropy index, some of the most conventional quantitative research tools used to examine disparities in regional economic growth. According to the neoclassical growth model, regions with lower starting values of the capital-labor ratio anticipate higher per capita income growth rates. Thus, poor areas will grow faster than rich ones, assuming that the only difference between regional economies is the level of their initial stock of capital.
Recommendation Method of Teaching Resources for Professional Music Courses Based on Knowledge Graph
Authors: Zhong Yuwei , Zhang Xiaoyan , Su Yanmei
Published: December 2024

There is an abundance of materials for use in professional music courses, but it can be 1 difficult for consumers to quickly and efficiently obtain the specific knowledge they require. Additionally, there is a general lack of data collected on online learning, which renders the recommendation effect of music course resources insufficient. In this study, we use technologies connected to the knowledge graph in the field of online education in order to create a system capable of recommending acceptable educational materials for use in professional music classes. In order to construct a recommendation model using multi-task feature learning, knowledge graphs are embedded within tasks, and high-order connections between latent features and entities are constructed across tasks using cross-compression units. It is possible to achieve success by recommending relevant course materials for individual students based on their requirements, interests and present skill levels. In terms of its ability to generate suggestions, the proposed knowledge spectrogram-based teaching resource recommendation system for professional music courses outperforms four baseline models on a number of publicly available datasets. This method has some practical utility in the domain of course resource suggestion, and its training time is less than that of the comparison model.
Exploring the dynamics of H atom guested endofullerene embedded in plasma with ultrashort chirped laser pulses
Authors: Bahar Mustafa Kemal
Published: December 2024

In this work, the effects of an ultrashort laser pulse on the excitation and ionization dynamics of a hydrogen guested endofullerene system embedded in a quantum plasma environment under spherical encompassment are investigated. The interaction of the plasma environment is considered within the more general exponential cosine screened Coulomb (MGECSC) potential model, and the excitation and ionization dynamics are analyzed through plasma screening parameters. For endohedral confinement, the relevant model that aligns with experimental data and is most suitable for static endohedral encapsulation is the Woods–Saxon potential model. By considering different numerical ranges of the parameters in this model, the effects of various forms of fullerenes are thoroughly explained through the analysis of confinement depth, spherical shell thickness, inner radius and the smoothing parameters. The effects of the characteristic properties of the laser pulse, such as its intensity and frequency, on the probability dynamics are also discussed. All parameters and their respective ranges are important for optimizing system performance. Additionally, the alternatives of all parameters related to the plasma-embedded endofullerene system for probability dynamics are considered. In this context, the findings cause new ideas in the controlled excitation and ionization processes of endofullerene systems embedded in a quantum plasma environment and provide a significant foundation for future experimental studies.
The Price Dynamism during REIT Acquisitions
Authors: Molapisi Kamogelo , Maake Pulane , Juma Nafisa
Published: December 2024

This study creates, models and calibrates the prices of real estate investment trusts (REITs) within an option pricing framework. Unlike Barraclough et al. [(2013). Using option prices overpayments and synergies in M&A transactions. The Review of Financial Studies, 26(3), 695-772] and Marcato and Sebehela [(2022). The paradoxical prices of options. Review of Pacific Basin Financial Markets & Policies, 25(2), 2250009], this study went further and incorporated new information in the form of news. The results show that for a target (acquiring) firm, the exponential risk premium is made up of the cost of carry plus (less) new news. The same illustration applies equally in a merged entity.
JPEG Column: 98th JPEG meeting in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Pinheiro Antonio
Published: December 2024

The 98th JPEG meeting was held in Sydney, Australia, from the 16th to 20th January 2023. This was a welcome return to face-to-face meetings after a long period of online meetings due to Covid-19 pandemics. Interestingly, the previous face-to-face meeting of the JPEG Committee was also held in Sydney, in January 2020. The face-to-face 98th JPEG meeting was complemented with online connections to allow the remote participation of those who could not be present.
MPEG Column: 142nd MPEG Meeting in Antalya, Türkiye
Authors: Timmerer Christian
Published: December 2024

The 142nd MPEG meeting was held as a face-to-face meeting in Antalya, Türkiye, and the official press release can be found here and comprises the following items:

•MPEG issues Call for Proposals for Feature Coding for Machines

•MPEG finalizes the 9th Edition of MPEG-2 Systems

•MPEG reaches the First Milestone for Storage and Delivery of Haptics Data

•MPEG completes 2nd Edition of Neural Network Coding (NNC)

•MPEG completes Verification Test Report and Conformance and Reference Software for MPEG Immersive Video

•MPEG finalizes work on metadata-based MPEG-D DRC Loudness Leveling

The press release text has been modified to match the target audience of ACM SIGMM and highlight research aspects targeting researchers in video technologies. This column focuses on the 9th edition of MPEG-2 Systems, storage and delivery of haptics data, neural network coding (NNC), MPEG immersive video (MIV), and updates on MPEG-DASH.
Protein Modeling with DEER Spectroscopy
Authors: Tessmer Maxx H. , Stoll Stefan
Published: December 2024

Double electron–electron resonance (DEER) combined with site-directed spin labeling can provide distance distributions between selected protein residues to investigate protein structure and conformational heterogeneity. The utilization of the full quantitative information contained in DEER data requires effective protein and spin label modeling methods. Here, we review the application of DEER data to protein modeling. First, we discuss the significance of spin label modeling for accurate extraction of protein structural information and review the most popular label modeling methods. Next, we review several important aspects of protein modeling with DEER, including site selection, how DEER restraints are applied, common artifacts, and the unique potential of DEER data for modeling structural ensembles and conformational landscapes. Finally, we discuss common applications of protein modeling with DEER data and provide an outlook.