bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The synergistic effect of green innovation and governance in carbon neutrality: Insights from Japanese companies
Authors: Keerthana Krishnamurthy Baskar , Wu Shih‐Wei , Kokulnathan Thangavelu , Wu Mu‐En
Published: August 2024

Japan is firmly committed to transitioning to a low‐carbon economy to address climate change. This research focuses on the role of innovation and governance in achieving carbon neutrality among Japanese companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange from 2017 to 2023, particularly in all carbon dioxide‐contributing sectors. Through multivariate statistics, regression modeling, and quantitative literature analysis, we provide robust evidence of the relationship among innovation, governance, and carbon neutrality. The findings highlight the importance of fostering a sustainability‐oriented culture to drive sustainable innovation and achieve carbon neutrality. We compared the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and governance to expand our scope. Its results underscore the significance of strong corporate governance in facilitating sustainable initiatives. A robustness test is included to finalize that the samples have avoided endogeneity. These findings demonstrate a positive outlook for Japan's future emissions reduction.
Know what to expect when implementing athletics‐driven enrollment strategies
Authors: Romano Robert
Published: August 2024

The vast majority of the 812,652 students at Concordia University (Ann Arbor, Michigan) participated in at least one campus sport during the 2022–23 academic year. Hovering around 80%, the school's unusually high percentage of student‐athletes didn’t happen by chance. In fact, the school purposefully implemented an “athletics‐driven” enrollment strategy to curtail the school's ever‐ increasing financial deficit — approximately $35.7 million accumulated during the previous 10 years. The university chose this approach based on the reasoning that recruiting student‐athletes would help increase the overall student enrollment and therefore, in theory, increase revenue.
Did court find student‐athlete's lawsuit barred by assumption of risk?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2024

A member of Manhattanville College's varsity soccer team allegedly injured his back while doing squat exercises during a weight training session. The soccer player claimed that he expressed concerns about his ability to perform the exercise during the session. However, the coaches allegedly told him he would be removed from the team if he didn’t complete the squat exercise. Subsequently, the soccer player initiated a personal injury lawsuit against several parties, including Manhattanville College, its athletics department, and the men's varsity soccer team.
Real‐time simulation of thin‐film interference with surface thickness variation using the shallow water equations
Authors: Gu Mingyi , Dai Jiajia , Chen Jiazhou , Yan Ke , Huang Jing
Published: August 2024

Thin‐film interference is a significant optical phenomenon. In this study, we employed the transfer matrix method to pre‐calculate the reflectance of thin‐films at visible light wavelengths. The reflectance is saved as a texture through color space transformation. This advancement has made real‐time rendering of thin‐film interference feasible. Furthermore, we proposed the implementation of shallow water equations to simulate the morphological evolution of liquid thin‐films. This approach facilitates the interpretation and prediction of behaviors and thickness variations in liquid thin‐films. We also introduced a viscosity term into the shallow water equations to more accurately simulate the behavior of thin‐films, thus facilitating the creation of authentic interference patterns.
Higher Order Structure Differences Among Insulin Crystalline Drugs Revealed by 2D heteronuclear NMR
Authors: Wang Songlin , Rienstra Chad M. , Chen Kang
Published: August 2024

During therapeutic protein development, two‐dimensional (2D) heteronuclear NMR spectra can be a powerful analytical method for measuring protein higher order structure (HOS) in solution since the spectra exhibit much higher resolution than homonuclear 1H spectra. However, 2D NMR capabilities for characterizing protein HOS in crystalline states remain to be assessed, given the low 13C natural abundance and intrinsically broader lines in solid‐state NMR (SSNMR). Herein, high‐resolution heteronuclear correlation (HETCOR) SSNMR was utilized to directly measure intact crystal drug products of insulin human, insulin analogs of insulin lispro and insulin aspart. The fingerprint regions in 2D 1H−13C HETCOR spectra were identified, which distinguished the insulin crystals in their primary structure, HOS heterogeneity and dynamics, as well as the manufacturing processes. The HOS heterogeneity in insulin analogs is consistent with their therapeutic effect of rapid action; while insulin human crystals showed more structural homogeneity, consistent with their slower pharmacokinetics (PK) peak time than insulin analogs. Therefore, heteronuclear NMR could be broadly applicable to study protein drug dosage forms from liquid to solid, yielding improved molecular level structure data for assessing drug HOS in biosimilar drug development.
W and V shape features based on measured skin spectral reflectance
Authors: Sun Meng , Gao Cheng , Li Changjun
Published: August 2024

Research suggested that color vision evolved for the purpose of seeing skin color modulations signaling emotion or mood. Hence people want to find the connection of the cone sensitivities with the skin spectral reflectance. In this article the W and V shapes based on skin spectral reflectance measured at different positions and from different ethnic groups (Kurdish, Caucasian, Thai, Chinese) were investigated. First, it was found that the measured skin spectral reflectance from all body positions and ethnic groups have a V shape between 400 and 450 nm and a W shape between 520 and 610 nm. The W and V shapes from the measured skin spectral reflectance are clearly different from those from the spectral reflectance generated from the physical model. The V shape and W shape do not exist with spectral reflectances measured from artificial skin color. Second, it was found that the wavelengths where the left trough assumes for the W shape are different from the wavelength where the M cone peaks, and the wavelengths where the central peak of the W shape assumes are different from the wavelength where the L cone peaks, which are different from the results from literature. Third, it was found that the skin spectral reflectance varies with body positions and ethnic groups. The W shapes turn to be a “U” shape for the spectral reflectance measured at back of the hand and inner forearm positions. The spectral reflectance measured from Kurdish starts decreasing for each body positions for wavelength greater than 700 nm, which is clearly different from the spectral reflectance measured from the Chinese and Caucasian ethnic groups. The findings of this paper are valuable for improving the physical model for generating skin spectral reflectance, reconstructing skin spectral reflectance based on image, identifying human skin color from spectral imaging and rendering of human skin color in computer graphics.
Genotoxicity and Micronucleus Formation as a Result of Panoramic Radiography in Epithelial Cells of the Buccal Mucosa: A Cross‐sectional Study in Adults
Authors: Torabinia Nakisa , Mehdizadeh Mojdeh , Keshani Forooz , Mehdizadeh Mohammadreza , Soltani Parisa , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To determine the genetic effects of panoramic radiography on the epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa by examining the micronucleus formation in these cells.

Materials and Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, exfoliative cytology samples were prepared from the buccal mucosa of 36 patients immediately before and 10 days after panoramic radiography. The samples were prepared using liquid‐based cytology with Papanicolaou staining. The slides were simultaneously evaluated by two expert pathologists and the ratio of the number of cells with micronuclei to the total number of cells on the slide was reported as a percentage. Data analysis was done using paired‐samples T test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and covariance analysis (α = 0.05).

Results

The study sample consisted of 24 (66.67%) males and 12 females (33.33%) with a mean (SD) age of 27.36 (8.19) years. The frequency of cells with micronucleus before and after panoramic radiography was not statistically different (p = 0.468). Additionally, the frequency of micronucleated cells was not correlated with age (p = 0.737) and sex (p = 0.211).

Conclusion

Panoramic exposure slightly increased the frequency of cells with micronucleus in epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa. However, this increase was not statistically significant.
Surface Acidic Species‐Driven Reductive Amination of Furfural with Ru/T‐ZrO2
Authors: Saini Kanika , Arulananda Babu Srinivasarao , Saravanamurugan Shunmugavel
Published: August 2024

Catalyst development for upgrading bio‐based chemicals towards primary amines has increasingly attracted owing to their applications in the pharmaceutical and polymer industries. The surface acidic sites in metal oxide‐based catalysts play a key role in the reductive amination of aldehydes/ketones involving H2 and NH3; however, the crucial role of the type of surface acidic species and their strength remains unclear. Herein, this study exhibits the catalytic reductive amination of furfural (FUR) to furfurylamine (FUA) with Ru supported on tetragonal (Ru/T‐ZrO2) and monoclinic (Ru/M‐ZrO2) ZrO2. Ru/T‐ZrO2 exhibited an 11.8‐fold higher rate of reductive amination than Ru/M‐ZrO2, giving a quantitative yield of FUA (99 %) at 80 °C in 2.5 h and is recyclable up to four runs. Catalyst surface investigation using spectroscopic techniques, like X‐ray photoelectron, electron paramagnetic resonance, and Raman, confirm higher oxygen vacancy sites (1.6 times) on the surface of Ru/T‐ZrO2 compared to Ru/M‐ZrO2. Moreover, in‐situ NH3‐diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy studies display that Ru/T‐ZrO2 has more moderate Bronsted acidic sites (surface H‐bonded hydroxyl groups) than Ru/M‐ZrO2. Further, the controlled experiments and poisoning studies with KSCN and 2,6‐lutidine suggest the crucial role of Ov sites (Lewis acidic sites) and surface hydroxyl groups (Bronsted acidic sites) for selective FUA formation.
Semiconductor Effect from Pd(II) Porphyrin Metal to Its Ligand in Photocatalytic N‐Dealkylation
Authors: Liao Borong , Gao Junhao , Weng Pei , He Linya , Zhang Yusheng , Liu Qiuhua , Zhou Zaichun
Published: August 2024

In this work, four saddled Pd(II) porphyrins were developed as photocatalyst for N‐dealkylation of triethyl Rhodamine (TER) under visible light, and their catalytic ability was found to be negatively related to the out‐of‐plane of their macrocycles. Two important relationships involving the metalloporphyrins as catalyst were revealed: (1) a photoexcitative semiconductor effect between the 4dx2−γ2(Pd) and a2u(π) orbitals of Pd(II) porphyrin on the dealkylation. (2) a domino process from strap length, ring geometry, core deformation, d‐π gap variation, to photocatalytic activity. Two revelations imply a unidirectional electron transfer route from axial ligand, to central metal, to porphyrin ring based on photoexcitation and guide the design and development of complex photocatalysts, and their revelation is attributed to the acquisition of a series of Pd(II) porphyrins with continuous ring distortion. The findings help to understand the photocatalytic single electron transfer (SET)‐first mechanism based on metallic complex.
Single‐cell transcriptome analysis deciphers the CD74‐mediated immune evasion and tumour growth in lung squamous cell carcinoma with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wang Denian , Li Sixiang , Yang Zhi , Yu Chunyan , Wu Pengfei , Yang Ying , Zhang Rui , Li Qingyan , Yang Jian , Li Hongchun , Ji Guiyi , Wang Yan , Xie Kang , Liu Yanyan , Wang Kaige , Zhu Daxing , Zhang Wengeng , Liu Dan , Chen Bojiang , Li Weimin
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) contributes to the incidence and prognosis of lung cancer. The presence of COPD significantly increases the risk of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). COPD may promote an immunosuppressive microenvironment in LSCC by regulating the expression of immune‐inhibitory factors in T cells, although the mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to decipher the tumour microenvironment signature for LSCC with COPD at a single‐cell level.

Methods

We performed single‐cell RNA sequencing on tumour tissues from LSCC with or without COPD, then investigated the features of the immune and tumour cells. We employed multiple techniques, including multispectral imaging, flow cytometry, tissue microarray analysis, survival analysis, co‐culture systems and in vitro and in vivo treatment experiments, to validate the findings obtained from single‐cell analyses.

Results

LSCC with COPD showed increased proportions of tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs) and higher levels of CD8+ T cell exhaustion molecules, which contributed to an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Further analysis revealed a critical cluster of CD74+ tumour cells that expressed both epithelial and immune cell signatures, exhibited a stronger capacity for tumorigenesis and predicted worse overall survival. Notably, migration inhibitory factor (MIF) secreted by TAMs from LSCC with COPD may promote the activation of CD74. MIF‐CD74 may interact with CD8+ T cells and impair their anti‐tumour activity by regulating the PI3K‐STAT3‐programmed cell death‐1 ligand 1 signalling pathway, facilitating tumour proliferation and immune evasion.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive picture of the tumour ecosystem in LSCC with COPD provides deeper insights into relevant immune evasion mechanisms and potential targets for immunotherapy.

Highlight

Our results demonstrated higher proportions of tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs) and higher levels of exhaustion molecules in CD8+ T cells in the microenvironment of LSCC with COPD.

CD74+tumour cells were associated with poor disease prognosis.

Migration inhibitory factor (MIF)‐CD74 may interact with CD8+ T cells and impair their anti‐tumour activity by regulating the PI3K‐STAT3‐PD‐L1 signalling pathway, facilitating immune evasion.
The IGF2BP3/Notch/Jag1 pathway: A key regulator of hepatic stellate cell ferroptosis in liver fibrosis
Authors: Li Xinmiao , Li Yifei , Zhang Weizhi , Jiang Feng , Lin Lifan , Wang Yining , Wu Lingling , Zeng Han , Zheng Jianjian
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Liver fibrosis is primarily driven by the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which involves various epigenetic modifications.

Objectives

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA modification in eukaryotic cells, influences numerous physiological and pathological processes. Nevertheless, the role of insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3), a reader gene mediating m6A modifications, in liver fibrosis remains unclear.

Methods and results

This study demonstrated that IGF2BP3 knockout reduces liver fibrosis by promoting HSC ferroptosis (FPT) and inactivating HSCs. Multi‐omics analysis revealed that HSC‐specific IGF2BP3 knockout decreased m6A content in Jagged1 (Jag1), a key component of the Notch signalling pathway. Furthermore, IGF2BP3 deficiency significantly reduced the expression of hairy and enhancer of split‐1 (Hes1), a transcription factor in the Notch/Jag1 signalling pathway, with mRNA levels declining to 35%–62% and protein levels to 28%–35%. Additionally, it suppressed glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) (decreased to approximately 31%–38%), a negative regulator of FPT, thereby facilitating HSC FPT progression and reducing profibrotic gene expression.

Conclusion

These findings uncover a novel IGF2BP3/Notch/Jag1 signalling pathway involving HSC FPT, suggesting promising targets for ameliorating liver fibrosis.

Key Points/Highlights

IGF2BP3 deficiency inactivates Jag1 signalling.

IGF2BP3 deficiency‐mediated m6A modifications promote HSC ferroptosis.

IGF2BP3 inhibition facilitates ferroptosis in HSCs via the Hes1/GPX4 axis.

IGF2BP3 deficiency inactivates Jag1/Notch1/3/Hes1 signalling pathway inactivation, leading to the decrease in GPX4, which contributes to HSC ferroptosis.
Downstream decreases in water availability, tree height, canopy volume and growth rate in cottonwood forests along the Green River, southwestern USA
Authors: Thaxton Richard , Scott Michael L. , Kemper John T. , Rathburn Sara L. , Butzke Sabrina , Friedman Jonathan M.
Published: August 2024

Hydrologic stress is increasing in Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii) forests across the southwestern United States because of increased temperature and streamflow diversion. The spatial variability of this stress is large yet poorly understood. Along the Yampa and Green Rivers in Colorado and Utah, vapour pressure deficit and flow diversions increase downstream. To investigate effects of this gradient on cottonwoods, we measured the percent live canopy and height of randomly selected trees at three sites: Deerlodge Park on the Yampa River (DLP), Island Park on the upper Green (ILP) and Canyonlands National Park on the lower Green (CAN). From these same trees, we took increment cores to understand differences in tree growth in each forest over time. We then related tree metrics to local water availability, streamflow and climatic data. Cottonwoods at CAN were shorter and had lower percent live canopy and growth rate than similarly aged trees upstream. CAN trees that grew higher above the water surface also tended to have lower tree growth, height and live canopy percentage. Furthermore, the correlation between tree growth and maximum vapour pressure deficit showed a much stronger negative shift since 1990 at CAN than at the other sites. All of these differences suggest higher hydrologic stress at CAN, which we attribute to the combined effects of peak flow declines from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, flow diversion and the higher and increasing vapour pressure deficit at CAN. Further research on the variability of hydrologic stress on cottonwoods could help managers anticipate and mitigate the effects of drought stress in these iconic forests.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the therapy of cardiogenic shock: 1‐year outcomes of the multicentre, randomized ECMO‐CS trial
Authors: Ostadal Petr , Rokyta Richard , Karasek Jiri , Kruger Andreas , Vondrakova Dagmar , Janotka Marek , Naar Jan , Smalcova Jana , Hubatova Marketa , Hromadka Milan , Volovar Stefan , Seyfrydova Miroslava , Linhart Ales , Belohlavek Jan ,   for the ECMO‐CS Investigators
Published: August 2024

Aims

Among patients with cardiogenic shock, immediate initiation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) did not demonstrate any benefit at 30 days. The present study evaluated 1‐year clinical outcomes of the Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the therapy of Cardiogenic Shock (ECMO‐CS) trial.

Methods and results

The ECMO‐CS trial randomized 117 patients with severe or rapidly progressing cardiogenic shock to immediate initiation of ECMO or early conservative strategy. The primary endpoint for this analysis was 1‐year all‐cause mortality. Secondary endpoints included a composite of death, resuscitated cardiac arrest or implantation of another mechanical circulatory support device, duration of mechanical ventilation, and the length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays. In addition, an unplanned post‐hoc subgroup analysis was performed. At 1 year, all‐cause death occurred in 40 of 58 (69.0%) patients in the ECMO arm and in 40 of 59 (67.8%) in the early conservative arm (hazard ratio [HR] 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66–1.58; p = 0.93). The composite endpoint occurred in 43 (74.1%) patients in the ECMO group and in 47 (79.7%) patients in the early conservative group (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.55–1.25; p = 0.29). The durations of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and hospital stay were comparable between groups. Significant interaction with treatment strategy and 1‐year mortality was observed in subgroups according to baseline mean arterial pressure (MAP) indicating lower mortality in the subgroup with low baseline MAP (<63 mmHg: HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.29–1.16; pinteraction = 0.017).

Conclusions

Among patients with severe or rapidly progressing cardiogenic shock, immediate initiation of ECMO did not improve clinical outcomes at 1 year compared to the early conservative strategy. However, immediate ECMO initiation might be beneficial in patients with advanced haemodynamic compromise.
Development of a Low‐Cost and Easy‐to‐Prepare Carbon‐Based Ink for Printed Electrodes Using Pet as Support
Authors: Lombello Coelho de Souza Malena Karla , Nunes da Silva Daniela , Ferreira Lucas Franco , César Pereira Arnaldo
Published: August 2024

This study presents the development of a low‐cost, easy‐to‐prepare carbon‐based ink for printed electrodes using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as the support material. The ink was composed of graphite and cellulose acetate (80 : 20%) mixed with acetone and cyclohexanone as solvents. The screen‐printing technique, a versatile and economical method that allows the printing of high‐thickness films, was used to produce the sensor. The developed sensor was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), demonstrating good electrochemical behavior with a well‐defined peak corresponding to the redox probe and a low background current. The optimization process focused on analyzing and discussing the ink manufacturing process and characterizing the materials used. The performance of the fabricated printed electrode was evaluated using a potassium ferrocyanide probe as a model redox system. The proposed sensor has the potential for use in electroanalytical determinations and can be produced at a low cost of US$ 0.897 per unit. This study aims to contribute to the development of printed sensors that can be produced on a large scale, are disposable, and can be used to determine different analytes.
The impact of the choice of intensity measure and seismic demand model on seismic risk estimates with respect to an unconditional benchmark
Authors: Rudman Archie , Tubaldi Enrico , Douglas John , Scozzese Fabrizio
Published: August 2024

Many methods for seismic risk assessment rely on the selection of a seismic intensity measure (IM) and the development of models of the seismic demand conditional on the IM. The individual importance of these two features to accurately assess seismic performance is well known. In contrast, this study aims to evaluate the impact that the combined selection of IM and the demand model has on risk estimates. Using a hypothetical seismic source model and a non‐stationary stochastic ground‐motion model, we present risk estimates for a mid‐rise steel structure for 15 different IMs and five demand models derived by cloud analysis (four based on regression and a fifth based on an empirical binning approach). The impact of these choices is investigated through a novel method of model performance evaluation using a benchmark solution obtained via the unconditional approach (i.e., directly estimating demand exceedance frequencies from simulated ground motion time histories). The obtained results are also compared against traditional IM performance metrics, for example, efficiency and sufficiency. Finally, we demonstrate how risk estimate inaccuracies are propagated by performing a damage assessment on two example components. The results show that, for the scenario under investigation, Arias intensity combined with the binned demand model provides the best risk estimates, if sufficient samples are available, whilst ground displacement and duration‐based IMs ranked worst, irrespective of the demand model. The findings highlight the importance and interconnectedness of the selection of the IM and the demand model when using cloud analysis and present a clear method of determining the most accurate combination for risk assessments.
Mixed Lagrangian formulation for modeling structures with clutched inerter devices
Authors: Zhang Yixuan , Málaga‐Chuquitaype Christian , Lavan Oren
Published: August 2024

Inerters (ID) and Clutched Inerter Devices (CID) are a novel technology with demonstrated seismic control potential. However, the inherent nonlinearity and discontinuity of the clutching phenomena in CIDs can pose significant challenges for their accurate numerical modeling. In general, conventional existing methods either oversimplify the physics involved or are sensitive to the step size and thus are inherently unstable, demanding excessive numerical resources. Most relevant studies to date have focused on small‐scale systems with a limited number of inerters and have used simplified models due to the lack of analysis tools. At the same time, the Mixed Lagrangian Formulation (MLF), has proven to be a powerful tool for simulating non‐smooth dynamics phenomena. This paper presents an alternative way of modeling the behavior of CIDs in both MLF and conventional finite element method. We put forward an original formulation of the inerter element, clutching behavior, and the inerter‐related dissipation model, as well as their associated computational scheme in MLF and the equivalent construction in FEM. The newly proposed CID element in MLF is then implemented and validated through three examples, including a single degree of freedom system, a multi 10‐storey moment resisting frame (MRF), and a 10‐storey self‐centering concentrically braced frame (SC‐CBF) with multiple rocking sections. The results are compared to those from existing models used for clutching inerter and to the proposed FE model. Finally, the advantages of using the MLF framework and salient characteristics of the structures equipped with clutched inerters are discussed. The modeling strategy proposed in this work empowers researchers to simulate structures with a larger number of degrees of freedom, equipped with a considerable amount of inerter‐based devices, with reduced effort and improved computational performance.
Morphology, timing, and drivers of post‐glacial landslides in the northern Yellowstone region
Authors: Dixon Jean L. , Nicholas Grace E. , Pierce Kenneth L. , Lageson David
Published: August 2024

The withdrawal of glaciers in mountainous systems exposes over‐steepened slopes previously sculpted by ice. This debuttressing can directly trigger mass movements or leave slopes susceptible to them by other drivers, including seismogenic shaking and changing climate conditions. These systems may pose hazards long after deglaciation. Here, we investigate the drivers of slope failure for landslides at the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park, a critical conduit traversed by ~1 million visitors each year. Through field mapping and analyses of LiDAR data, we quantify the spatial and temporal relationships between eight adjacent slides. Stratigraphic relationships and surface roughness analyses suggest initial emplacement 13–11.5 ka, after a significant delay from Deckard Flats glacial retreat (15.1 ± 1.2 ka). Thus, rapid glacial debuttressing was not the direct trigger of slope failure, though the resultant change in stress regime likely had a preparatory influence. We posit that the timing of failure was associated with (1) a period of enhanced moisture and seismicity in the late Pleistocene and (2) altered stress regimes associated with ice retreat. Historical archives and cross‐cutting relationships indicate portions of some ancient slides were reactivated; these areas are morphologically distinguishable from other slide surfaces, with mean topographic roughness 2 times that of non‐active slides. Stream power analysis and archival records indicate Holocene incision of the Gardner River and human disturbances are largely responsible for modern reactivations. Our findings highlight the importance of combining archival records with stratigraphic, field and remote sensing approaches to understanding landslide timing, risk, and drivers in post‐glacial environments. This study also provides a valuable baseline for geomorphic change in the Yellowstone system, where a 2022 flood incised streams, damaged infrastructure and further reactivated landslide slopes.
Modern building structures are a landscape‐level driver of bat–human exposure risk in Kenya
Authors: Lunn Tamika J , Jackson Reilly T , Webala Paul W , Ogola Joseph G , Forbes Kristian M
Published: August 2024

Identifying the locations and drivers of high‐risk interfaces between humans and wildlife is crucial for managing zoonotic disease risk. We suggest that continent‐wide improvements to residential housing in Africa are inadvertently creating artificial roosting habitat for synanthropic free‐tailed bats (family Molossidae), and that improved buildings are a rapidly accelerating exposure interface that needs urgent research attention and investment. Along a residential gradient in rural southern Kenya, we mapped building use by free‐tailed bats in 1109 buildings. We show that bats often roost in human‐occupied buildings, with almost one‐in‐ten buildings exhibiting evidence of bat occupation (9.2%) and one‐in‐13 found to contain active bat roosts (7.6%). We identified modern‐build styles and triangular roofing as building‐level predictors of bat occupation, and the proportion of modern buildings as a landscape‐level predictor of bat occupancy. Humane preemptive exclusion of bats (by sealing bat entry points to buildings) and restoration of natural roosting habitats should be prioritized as One Health land‐use planning strategies in rural Africa.
The coaching flipside: Factors underlying unsuccessful workplace coaching interventions and the implication for human resource development
Authors: Kruger Frederik , Terblanche Nicky H. D.
Published: August 2024

Workplace coaching is an established, proven personal development intervention relied on by human resource (HR) practitioners to improve individual growth and organizational performance. Numerous studies underscore coaching efficacy. However, in most coaching studies, there is a bias toward positive coaching experience. This points to a missed opportunity in understanding the nuances of negative coaching experiences and its effect on HR development (HRD). To address this limitation, we identified 13 instances from a sample of 357 coachees where organizational coaching was experienced as predominantly negative. Content analysis of the interviews revealed three main themes: mismatched expectations (getting off to a bad start); suboptimal relationship dynamics (lack of trust and perceived coach incompetence); and disruptive organizational influences (hidden agendas). Findings interpreted through the lens of HRD and working alliance theories reveal deep hidden dynamics of how negative coaching experiences could destroy organizational trust, amplify cultural mismatches, and affect employee career trajectories, negatively impacting several HRD objectives on both individual and organizational levels. On a theoretical level, the findings empirically underscore the need for an extend working alliance theory that includes the organization as a distinct construct in the coach–coachee dynamics, and shows the dual positive and negative leveraging effect of coaching on HRD objectives. Practically it points to the essential need for HR practitioners to be more closely and proactively involved in organizational coaching initiatives and we offer a number of practical suggestions to help HR avoid the potential detrimental long‐term negative effects of unsuccessful coaching.
Behavioral skills training produces acquisition and generalization of run‐blocking skills of high school football players
Authors: Wiley Jason C. , Miltenberger Raymond G. , Tai Sharayah
Published: August 2024

Behavioral skills training (BST) has been used to improve football players' performance in one prior study, but limited data were collected on how the skill generalized from the training environment to the natural environment. The purpose of this study was to further evaluate the effects of BST in enhancing football players' performance while also evaluating the generalization of a skill taught in a training environment (i.e., practice) to the natural environment (i.e., game‐simulated scrimmage). This study included five high school offensive line football players and recorded their run‐blocking skills in the training context and a game context in baseline and following BST. The results showed that BST improved performance in the training environment, with run‐blocking skills slightly generalizing from the training environment to game‐simulated scrimmages. When BST was conducted in the natural environment, it further improved the participants' run‐blocking skills.
The benefits of forecasting inflation with machine learning: New evidence
Authors: Naghi Andrea A. , O'Neill Eoghan , Danielova Zaharieva Martina
Published: August 2024

Medeiros et al. (2021) (Journal of Business & Economic Statistics, 39:1, 98–119) find that random forest (RF) outperforms US inflation forecasting benchmarks. We replicate the main results in Medeiros et al. (2021) and (1) considerably expand the set of machine learning methods, (2) analyse the predictive ability of both the initial and extended sets of methods on Canadian and UK data, (3) add results on coverage rates and widths of prediction intervals and (4) extend the sample from January 2016 to October 2022. Our narrow replication confirms the main findings of the original paper. However, the wider replication results suggest that other methods are competitive with RF and often more accurate. In addition, RF produces disappointing results during the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent high inflation of 2020–2022, whereas a stochastic volatility model and some gradient boosting methods produce more accurate forecasts.
Production of magnetic photocatalysts from TiO2, Fe(NO3)3 and sucrose and their application for the degradation of model organic contaminants
Authors: de Oliveira Pereira Leydiane , do Rosario Guimarães Iara , Zampiere Luana Pereira , Marques Isabela Sales , de Moura Stéfany Gonçalves , Caetano Aline Aparecida , Magalhães Fabiano
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Photocatalysis is an efficient method for the removal of organic contaminants in wastewater. In this study, different magnetic photocatalysts for the degradation of organic compounds were prepared.

RESULTS

Ti/C/Fe photocatalysts were prepared by supporting TiO2 (20, 40 and 60% w/w) on a carbon/iron oxide (C/Fe) magnetic carrier. Characterization via Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, thermal analysis, X‐ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy/elemental mapping and magnetic property analysis by vibrating‐sample magnetometry confirmed the presence of TiO2, Fe3O4, Fe3C and char in the photocatalysts as well as their magnetic properties. The results of specific surface area analysis showed that the C/Fe support had a surface area of 183 m2 g−1 and that this area decreased with an increasing amount of supported TiO2, reaching up to 129 m2 g−1. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy characterization revealed that the bandgap values obtained for the photocatalysts (Ti/C/Fe) were lower than 3.2 eV. The prepared photocatalysts showed high efficiency in degrading the contaminants Remazol Black (RB5) (99%), paracetamol (77%) and phenol (90%). Recovery and reuse experiments using RB5 showed that after the fourth reaction, the photocatalytic efficiency was reduced by 50%, and the recovery reached up to 70%. Sedimentation kinetics showed that while only 6% of the TiO2 was deposited, up to 89% of the photocatalysts were deposited.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that the photocatalysts showed excellent photocatalytic efficiency for different contaminants and can be easily and quickly separated from the reaction medium by magnetic separation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Gene therapy clinical trials worldwide to 2023—an update
Authors: Ginn Samantha L. , Mandwie Mawj , Alexander Ian E. , Edelstein Michael , Abedi Mohammad R.
Published: August 2024

To date, 3,900 gene therapy clinical trials have been completed, are ongoing or have been approved worldwide. Our database brings together global information on gene therapy clinical activity from trial databases, official agency sources, published literature, conference presentations and posters kindly provided to us by individual investigators or trial sponsors. This review presents our analysis of clinical trials that, to the best of our knowledge, have been or are being performed worldwide. As of our March 2023 update, we have entries on 3,900 trials undertaken in 46 countries. We have analyzed the geographical distribution of trials, the disease indications (or other reasons) for trials, the proportions to which different vector types are used, and which genes have been transferred. Details of the analyses presented, and our searchable database are on The Journal of Gene Medicine Gene Therapy Clinical Trials Worldwide website at https://a873679.fmphost.com/fmi/webd/GTCT. We also provide an overview of the progress being made around the world, and discuss key trends since the previous review, namely the unprecedented increase in gene therapy clinical trial activity, including the implementation of genome editing technology with the potential to transform the field moving forward.
Cold shock treatment alleviates pitting in sweet cherry fruit by enhancing antioxidant enzymes activity and regulating membrane lipid metabolism
Authors: Yang Qingzhen , Hou Jie , Wang Feng , Qi Yingjian , Zhao Qifeng
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

In order to comprehend the regulatory mechanisms that result in the alleviation of sweet cherry pitting disorder through cold shock (0 °C ice–water mixture for 10 min), an investigation was conducted into the impacts of cold shock treatment (CST) on membrane lipid metabolism, antioxidant enzyme activity, as well as pitting of cold‐stored sweet cherry fruit.

RESULTS

CST significantly inhibited the increase in pitting incidence, pitting index, and decay incidence. The CST treatment provided greater titratable acidity, firmness as well as total content of soluble solids. The use of CST prevented the build‐up of superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and reduced permeability of cell membranes. When in contrast to control group, the CST also raised the expression levels along with activity of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, CST reduced the amount of fruit cell membrane peroxidation, suppressed the activity of phospholipase and lipoxygenase, postponed the rise in saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and decrease in unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs), ultimately keeping a high ratio of USFAs to SFAs.

CONCLUSION

CST can alleviating pitting disorder in sweet cherry fruit via preventing peroxidation of membrane lipid and elevating the antioxidant enzymes activity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
How Did the COVID‐19 Pandemic Change Cigarette Smoking Behavior?
Authors: Semprini Jason
Published: August 2024

Background

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Although smoking rates have been declining, it is unclear how the COVID‐19 pandemic impacted smoking behaviors.

Methods

With population‐based data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (2010–2023), we will analyze four outcomes: (1) currently smoking, (2) started smoking in the past year, (3) number of cigarettes per day, and (4) quit smoking in the past year. By estimating a two‐way fixed effect regression model to account for state‐level factors and temporal trends, this study identifies the effect of exposure to the COVID‐19 pandemic by comparing the change over time in an unexposed group (interviewed January 1–March 20, 2020) to the change over time in the exposed group (interviewed January 1–March 31, 2021–2023). This stage 1‐registered report conducts a Power and pilot analysis with an exploratory outcome: being uninsured.

Pilot Results

Our power analysis calculates a minimum detectable effect size = 0.7%. The pilot analysis indicates that exposure to the COVID‐19 pandemic was associated with a statistically significant decline in the probability of being uninsured (Est. = −2.2%; CI = −3.5, −1.1). There is little evidence that the early and late survey wave cohorts differed before the pandemic.

Implications

This registered report outlines a study aimed at investigating the direct impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on smoking behaviors related to prevalence, initiation, intensity, and cessation. The findings will provide valuable insights into the effects of public health crises on health‐related behaviors and inform future public health interventions. The preregistration of the study design and analysis plan ensures transparency, trust, and replicability of the results. Quantifying whether and how smoking behaviors changed, and in whom, can inform ongoing tobacco control efforts to continue the downward trend in cigarette smoking.

Preregistration

https://osf.io/vq8m4
Exploring the resilience and stability of a defined human gut microbiota consortium: An isothermal microcalorimetric study
Authors: Kattel Anna , Aro Valter , Lahtvee Petri‐Jaan , Kazantseva Jekaterina , Jõers Arvi , Nahku Ranno , Belouah Isma
Published: August 2024

The gut microbiota significantly contributes to human health and well‐being. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability and resilience of a consortium composed of three next‐generation probiotics (NGPs) candidates originally found in the human gut. The growth patterns of Akkermansia muciniphila, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii were studied both individually and consortium. The growth kinetics of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila), Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (B. thetaiotaomicron), and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F. prausnitzii) were characterized both individually and in consortium using isothermal microcalorimetry and 16S ribosomal RNA next‐generation sequencing. The consortium reached stability after three passages and demonstrated resilience to changes in its initial composition. The concentration of butyrate produced was nearly twice as high in the consortium compared to the monoculture of F. prausnitzii. The experimental conditions and methodologies used in this article are a solid foundation for developing further complex consortia.
Open‐source hardware and software for the measurement, characterization, reporting, and correction of geometric distortion in MRI
Authors: Whelan Brendan M. , Liu Paul Z. Y. , Shan Shanshan , Waddington David E. J. , Dong Bin , Jameson Michael G. , Keall Paul J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Geometric distortion is a serious problem in MRI, particularly in MRI guided therapy. A lack of affordable and adaptable tools in this area limits research progress and harmonized quality assurance.

Purpose

To develop and test a suite of open‐source hardware and software tools for the measurement, characterization, reporting, and correction of geometric distortion in MRI.

Methods

An open‐source python library was developed, comprising modules for parametric phantom design, data processing, spherical harmonics, distortion correction, and interactive reporting. The code was used to design and manufacture a distortion phantom consisting of 618 oil filled markers covering a sphere of radius 150 mm. This phantom was imaged on a CT scanner and a novel split‐bore 1.0 T MRI magnet. The CT images provide distortion‐free dataset. These data were used to test all modules of the open‐source software.

Results

All markers were successfully extracted from all images. The distorted MRI markers were mapped to undistorted CT data using an iterative search approach. Spherical harmonics reconstructed the fitted gradient data to 1.0 ± 0.6% of the input data. High resolution data were reconstructed via spherical harmonics and used to generate an interactive report. Finally, distortion correction on an independent data set reduced distortion inside the DSV from 5.5 ± 3.1 to 1.6 ± 0.8 mm.

Conclusion

Open‐source hardware and software for the measurement, characterization, reporting, and correction of geometric distortion in MRI have been developed. The utility of these tools has been demonstrated via their application on a novel 1.0 T split bore magnet.
Animals' paleopathology: Implications on human–animal interaction during the intensification of farming in the Southern Levant
Authors: Namdar Linoy , Bartosiewicz László , May Hila , Sapir‐Hen Lidar
Published: August 2024

Animal domestication led to changes in the interaction between animals and humans, including new ways of exploitation, which could potentially leave lesions on the animals' bones. This study aims to examine changes in the prevalence of pathological manifestation following changes in human‐animal interactions as a result their domestication. For this purpose, we studied 19,565 animal remains recovered from archaeological excavations, dated from the Pre‐Pottery Neolithic period to historical periods and assigned the pathologies into types. Of these, 60 animal remains presented pathological lesions. The suspected pathological cases were validated using a microscope, X‐ray, and/or micro‐CT scan. Lesions were divided into four categories: trauma, aging/musculoskeletal stress marks (MSM), periodontal diseases, and inflammatory processes. Then, our database was combined with previously published data to a total of 26,596 animal remains, out of which 128 demonstrated pathological lesions. We found that the prevalence of lesions in animals was higher in the historical periods compared with prehistoric periods. Moreover, based on a comparison between recent gazelles living in captivity and those living in the wild, we found that captivity resulted in the deterioration of the animals' health. We concluded that pathologies were more frequent in livestock in historic periods, in comparison with wild species and livestock from earlier periods. Such lesions were common not only in working livestock (cattle and donkeys) but also in non‐working domesticates (caprines and chickens) and companion animals (dogs and cats). Variations in the pathological frequencies between these three categories may be attributed to differences in exploitation, including the intensification of farming and herding. Finally, this study provides a unique reference dataset for zooarchaeologists when studying ancient animal assemblages.
Low dielectric polyimide microsphere/polyimide composite films based on porous polyimide microsphere
Authors: Li Ke , Yang Lin , Yang Lin , He Liu , Du Juan , Li Xinyue
Published: August 2024

A low dielectric polyimide/polyimide microsphere (PI/PM) composite film was constructed by thermal imidization of polyamic acid from pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and 4,4′‐oxydianiline (ODA) in the presence of porous PM. The PM particles with particle size of about 2 μm were prepared via the solvothermal method using 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) and ODA as monomers through thermal imidization. Due to the favorable compatibility between the porous PM and PI matrix, the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and dielectric properties of the obtained composite films were significantly improved. The PI/PM composite films had a tensile strength of 44.18–64.32 MPa, and the corresponding elongation at break of 6.21%–11.7%. Furthermore, the thermogravimetric temperatures of T5% were 538.9–563.7°C. The dielectric constants of the composite films at 1 MHz were 2.59–3.68, and the corresponding dielectric loss were only 0.0119–0.00405. Thus, the combination of excellent mechanical properties, high thermal stability, extremely low dielectric constant, and dielectric loss make the composite films ideal for deployment as high‐performance materials for 5G applications.

Highlights

Low dielectric polyimide composite film was prepared by thermal imidization of polyamic acid in the presence of porous polyimide microspheres.

Porous polyimide microspheres were prepared by thermal using the imidization solvothermal method.

Low dielectric polyimide composite film with good comprehensive properties.