bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel hybrid forecasting model with feature selection and deep learning for wind speed research
Authors: Chen Xuejun , Wang Ying , Zhang Haitao , Wang Jianzhou
Published: February 2024

Accurate wind speed prediction is of great importance for the operation of wind farms, and extensive efforts have been made to develop effective forecasting methods in this regard. However, the feature selection of data input as well as optimization of deep learning models have received comparatively less attention, leading to unreliable forecasting results. This research proposes a novel hybrid model that integrates data preprocessing, feature selection, and optimized forecasting for improved wind speed prediction. Specifically, a powerful preprocessing technique is utilized to reduce data noise disturbances, while an innovative two‐stage feature selection is designed to achieve the optimal input data format for forecasting purposes. Moreover, a hybrid forecasting module based on long‐short term memory, which is optimized by the Bayesian optimization algorithm, has been developed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the model. The empirical study used 10‐min interval wind speed data of four seasons for presentation and evaluation results demonstrated its superior performance in effectively learning the volatility and irregularity features of wind speed series, which established a solid foundation for practical applications in wind power systems.
In vivo microstructural heterogeneity of white matter and cognitive correlates in aging using tissue compositional analysis of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Badji Atef , Cedres Nira , Muehlboeck J‐Sebastian , Khan Wasim , Dhollander Thijs , Barroso Jose , Ferreira Daniel , Westman Eric
Published: February 2024

Background

Age‐related cognitive decline is linked to changes in the brain, particularly the deterioration of white matter (WM) microstructure that accelerates after the age of 60. WM deterioration is associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia, but the origin and role of white matter signal abnormalities (WMSA) seen in standard MRI remain debated due to their heterogeneity. This study explores the potential of single‐shell 3‐tissue constrained spherical deconvolution (SS3T‐CSD), a novel technique that models diffusion data in terms of gray matter (TG), white matter (Tw), and cerebrospinal fluid (TC), to differentiate WMSA from normal‐appearing white matter and better understand the interplay between changes in WM microstructure and decline in cognition.

Methods

A total of 189 individuals from the GENIC cohort were included. MRI data, including T1‐weighted and diffusion images, were obtained. Preprocessing steps were performed on the diffusion MRI data, followed by the SS3T‐CSD. WMSA were segmented using FreeSurfer. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the association between age, WMSA volume, 3‐tissue signal fractions (Tw, TG, and TC), and neuropsychological variables.

Results

Participants above 60 years old showed worse cognitive performance and processing speed compared to those below 60 (p < .001). Age was negatively associated with Tw in normal‐appearing white matter (p < .001) and positively associated with TG in both WMSA (p < .01) and normal‐appearing white matter (p < .001). Age was also significantly associated with WMSA volume (p < .001). Higher processing speed was associated with lower Tw and higher TG, in normal‐appearing white matter (p < .01 and p < .001, respectively), as well as increased WMSA volume (p < .001). Similarly, lower MMSE scores correlated with lower Tw and higher TG in normal‐appearing white matter (p < .05). High cholesterol and hypertension were associated with higher WMSA volume (p < .05).

Conclusion

The microstructural heterogeneity within normal‐appearing white matter and WMSA is associated with increasing age and cognitive variation, in cognitively unimpaired individuals. Furthermore, the 3‐tissue signal fractions are more specific to potential white matter alterations than conventional MRI measures such as WMSA volume. These findings also support the view that the WMSA volumes may be more influenced by vascular risk factors than the 3‐tissue metrics. Finally, the 3‐tissue metrics were able to capture associations with cognitive tests and therefore capable of capturing subtle pathological changes in the brain in individuals who are still within the normal range of cognitive performance.
Assessment of water, hygiene, and sanitation practice and associated factors among Bihari refugee camp in Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sifullah Md. Khaled , Sohel Md. Salman , Jamil Safayet , Hasan Md. Mahdi , Anika Jeba , Swadhin Husain Rakib , Chaudhary Neeru , Rahman Md. Naimur , Shaiara Mohima , Islam Md Tariqul , Ahmad Babor , Shomapto Mishal Islam , Sarker Md. Fouad Hossain , Sohag S. M.
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

The global significance of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) cannot be overstated, extending far beyond the confines of developing nations and encompassing even the most developed ones. This study, rooted in the Bihari refugee camp in Bangladesh, seeks to underscore the universality of WASH concerns.

Methods

Using a cross‐sectional design and a structured questionnaire, we conducted a meticulous evaluation of WASH practices with 313 participants selected through random sampling.

Results

Findings shows the water practice, among all of them, only 4.8% of the respondents were very happy with the water supply system and 16.0% of the respondents were happy with this. A total of 29.7% of the respondents were satisfied with safe drinking water and only 4.8% of the respondents were very satisfied with safe drinking water. Regarding the hygiene practice, among all respondents, 10.2% of them were satisfied with using the same bathroom by multiple people. Only 5.4% respondents were happy in their living environment. Regarding sanitation practice, only 31.3% had private toilet facilities. Among all of the respondents, 13.7% of the respondents were satisfied with using the same toilet by multiple people. Respondents who were illiterate (p < 0.01) and self‐employed (p < 0.04) were satisfied with the water supply. Similarly, respondents who were illiterate (p < 0.03) and self‐employed (p < 0.00) were satisfied with safe drinking water. Respondents who were illiterate (p < 0.02) and whose monthly income was below 8000 BDT (p < 0.00) were satisfied using same bathroom by multiple people. Respondents who were self‐employed (p < 0.01), whose monthly income 8000–12,000 BDT (p < 0.01) and having single room (p < 0.00) were satisfied using the same toilet by multiple people.

Conclusion

Enhanced access to safe WASH facilities, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of the study's findings, have the potential to serve as vital signposts for the development and implementation of policies and interventions.
Risk factors of multimorbidity among older adults in India: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Goel Nikita , Biswas Isha , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: February 2024

Background

Multimorbidity among older adults is a growing concern in India. Multimorbidity is defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic health conditions in an individual. Primary studies have been conducted on risk factors of multimorbidity in India, but no systematic review has been conducted on this topic. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the existing evidence on risk factors of multimorbidity among older adults in India.

Methods

The JBI and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines were followed. Several databases were searched for published and unpublished studies until August 03, 2022. The screening of titles and abstracts and full texts, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted by two independent reviewers. Any disagreements were resolved through discussion or by involving a third reviewer. Data synthesis was conducted using narrative synthesis and random effects meta‐analysis, where appropriate.

Results

Out of 8781 records identified from the literature search, 16 and 15 studies were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis, respectively. All included studies were cross‐sectional, and 10 met a critical appraisal score of more than 70%. Broadly, sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health conditions‐related factors were explored in these studies. The pooled odds of multimorbidity were higher in people aged ≥70 years compared to 60‐69 years (odds ratio (OR) 1.51; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–1.91), females compared to males (1.38; 1.09–1.75), single, divorced, separated, and widowed compared to married (1.29; 1.11–1.49), economically dependent compared to economically independent (1.54; 1.21–1.97), and smokers compared to non‐smokers (1.33; 1.16–1.52) and were lower in working compared to not working (0.51; 0.36–0.72).

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis provided a comprehensive picture of the problem by synthesizing the existing evidence on risk factors of multimorbidity among older adults in India. These synthesized sociodemographic and lifestyle factors should be taken into consideration when developing health interventions for addressing multimorbidity among older adults in India.
Effectiveness and safety of early treatment with spironolactone for new‐onset acute heart failure
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Wei , Park Joon S. , Liu In‐Lu Amy , Lee Janet S. , Kohan Siamak , Mefford Mathew , Wu Stefanie S. , Subject Christopher C. , Nguyen Huong Q. , Lee Ming‐Sum
Published: February 2024

Background

The effectiveness and safety of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) in acute heart failure (HF) is uncertain. We sought to describe the prescription of spironolactone during acute HF and whether early treatment is effective and safe in a real‐world setting.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult (≥18 years) nonpregnant patients hospitalized with new‐onset HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF, defined by ejection fraction ≤40%) within 15 Kaiser Permanente Southern California medical centers between 2016 and 2021. Early treatment was defined by spironolactone prescription at discharge. The primary effectiveness outcome was a composite of HF readmission or all‐cause mortality at 180 days. Safety outcomes were hypotension and hyperkalemia at 90 days.

Results

Among 2318 HFrEF patients, 368 (15.9%) were treated with spironolactone at discharge. After 1:2 propensity score matching, 354 early treatment and 708 delayed/no treatment patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 63 (IQR: 52–74) years; 61.6% were male, and 38.6% were White. By 90 days, ~20% had crossed over in the two groups. Early treatment was not associated with the composite outcome at 180 days (HR [95% CI]: 0.81 [0.56–1.17]), but a trend towards benefit by 365 days that did not reach statistical significance (0.78 [0.58–1.06]). Early treatment was also associated with hyperkalemia (subdistribution HR [95% CI]: 2.33 [1.30–4.18]) but not hypotension (0.93 [0.51–1.72]).

Conclusions

Early treatment with spironolactone at discharge for new‐onset HFrEF in a real‐world setting did not reduce the risk of HF readmission or mortality in the first year after discharge. The risk of hyperkalemia was increased.
Effect of portulaca (Portulaca oleracea L.) extract on the quality and physicochemical attributes of vacuum‐packed seasoned steaks during chilled storage
Authors: Zhao Zhengshan , Deng Qiuhao , Wang Xin , Xiao Huijie , Fan Xiaojing , Chen Lin , Feng Xianchao
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Vacuum packaging has the ability to reduce oxidative deterioration and microbial‐induced spoilage of meat. However, in an oxygen‐free environment, it can lead to the development of an unappealing purplish‐red color and a decrease in the water‐holding capacity of meat, thereby impacting the overall meat quality. Portulaca oleracea L. (POL) is a homology of medicine and food known for its exceptional antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

RESULTS

The aim of our present study was to investigate the antioxidant and antimicrobial ability of n‐butanol phase extract of POL and the effect of POL extract incorporation on the quality (water‐holding capacity, shear force, color, and texture) and physicochemical (pH, total volatile base nitrogen, and total viable counts) attributes of vacuum‐packed seasoned steaks at 4 °C over a 15‐day period. Results showed that the POL extract had excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity. Furthermore, the addition of POL extract significantly inhibited protein oxidation and microbial growth of steaks (P < 0.05), and improved the water‐holding capacity, color properties, and tenderness (P < 0.05). Moreover, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in the color, water‐holding capacity, or tenderness between the 0.5 and 1 g kg−1 POL extract treatment groups compared to the sodium nitrite control group.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that POL extract had the potential to replace sodium nitrite due to its ability to hinder protein oxidation and microbial growth of vacuum‐packed seasoned steaks, while enhancing the color, water‐holding capacity, and tenderness of seasoned steaks. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Resolution Profiling of Human Vocal Fold Cellular Landscapes With Single‐Nuclei RNA Sequencing
Authors: Laitman Benjamin M. , Charytonowicz Daniel , Zhu Ashley J. , Lynch Katie , Varelas Eleni A. , Burton Madeline , Andreou Christina , Kore Pragati , Kirke Diana N. , Chen Ya‐Wen , Beaumont Kristin G. , Sebra Robert , Genden Eric M. , Courey Mark S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The function of the vocal folds (VFs) is determined by the phenotype, abundance, and distribution of differentiated cells within specific microenvironments. Identifying this histologic framework is crucial in understanding laryngeal disease. A paucity of studies investigating VF cellular heterogeneity has been undertaken. Here, we examined the cellular landscape of human VFs by utilizing single‐nuclei RNA‐sequencing.

Methods

Normal true VF tissue was excised from five patients undergoing pitch elevation surgery. Tissue was snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and subjected to cellular digestion and nuclear extraction. Nuclei were processed for single‐nucleus sequencing using the 10X Genomics Chromium platform. Sequencing reads were assembled using cellranger and analyzed with the scanpy package in python.

Results

RNA sequencing revealed 18 global cell clusters. While many were of epithelial origin, expected cell types, such as fibroblasts, immune cells, muscle cells, and endothelial cells were present. Subcluster analysis defined unique epithelial, immune, and fibroblast subpopulations.

Conclusion

This study evaluated the cellular heterogeneity of normal human VFs by utilizing single‐nuclei RNA‐sequencing. With further confirmation through additional spatial sequencing and microscopic imaging, a novel cellular map of the VFs may provide insight into new cellular targets for VF disease.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:3193–3200, 2024
Agroforestry system construction in eastern coastal China: Insights from soil–plant interactions
Authors: Feng Yuanyuan , Liu Jiajia , Hu Haibo , Xu Xiaopeng , Chen Danyan , Wang Xia , Poinern Gerrard Eddy Jai , Jiang Zhong‐Tao , Fawcett Derek , Wu Yonghong , Lu Haiying
Published: February 2024

Agroforestry, as a phytoremediation measure, shows great potential for mitigating land degradation by constructing multidimensional and efficient agroforestry composite systems through regulating the microenvironment of agroforestry sites and improving soil properties. However, the effects of different agroforestry composite management modes on saline soils and the interactions between soil–plant systems under salt stress conditions in coastal areas remain largely unexplored. In this study, two salt‐tolerant tree species (Sapium sebiferum (Linn.) Roxb and Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino) and four crop species (Medicago sativa, Sesbania cannabina, Sorghum bicolour, and Avena sativa) were selected for intercropping in eight composite patterns via field experiments, with dynamics of soil physicochemical properties and crop photosynthesis observed. The results showed that treatments intercropped with M. sativa had the highest soil bulk density range (1.41–1.48 g cm−3). The dynamics of topsoil (0–10 cm) chemical properties showed similar change patterns among treatments, whereas those of the 10–40 cm soil chemical properties (especially soil pH, soil organic matter [SOM], and total nitrogen [TN]) showed heterogeneity. Moreover, planting S. sebiferum (L.) Roxb under the same crop conditions increased tree height growth rate and survival rate by 75%–114% and 14%–33%, respectively, relative to planting Z. serrata (T.) Makino. Furthermore, a significant negative correlation was observed between soil moisture with crop intercellular CO2 concentration (λ = −0.77), while significant positive correlations were found between crop net photosynthetic rate (Pn) with soil TN (λ = 0.71), as well as SOM with atmospheric CO2 content (λ = 0.72). Structural equation modeling showed significant direct effects between tree height growth rate with soil TN and SOM. Soil moisture (λ = 0.47) and tree height growth rate (λ = 0.53) were dominant drivers of crop Pn. Our findings provide useful information for the prevention of coastal saline soil degradation and sustainable development of agroforestry.
Scalable Fabrication of Structurally Stable Polymer Film with Excellent UV‐Shielding, Fluorescent, and Antibacterial Capabilities
Authors: Shen Kaiyuan , Liu Hongchen , Qiu Changjing , Yuan Mengzhen , Chen Zhishan , Qi Haisong
Published: February 2024

This research presents a new approach to facilely fabricating a multifunctional film using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the base material. The film is modified chemically to incorporate various desirable properties such as high transparency, UV‐shielding, antibacterial activity, and fluorescence. The fabrication process of this film is straightforward and efficient. The modified film showed exceptional UV‐blocking capability, effectively blocking 100% of UV radiation. It also exhibits strong antibacterial properties. Additionally, the film emitted bright blue fluorescence, which can be useful in various optical and sensing applications. Despite the chemical modification, the film retained the excellent properties of PVA, including high transparency (90%) at 550 nm and good mechanical strength. Furthermore, it demonstrated remarkable stability even under harsh conditions such as exposure to long‐term UV radiation, extreme temperatures (−40 or 120 °C), or immersion in different solvents. Overall, this work showcases a promising strategy to develop versatile, structurally stable, transparent, and flexible polymer films with multiple functionalities. These films have potential applications in various fields that require protection, such as packaging materials, biomedical devices, and optical components.
A nonlinear optimization method for calibration of large‐scale deep cement mixing in very soft clay deep excavation
Authors: To Thanh Sang , Minh Hoang Le , Huynh Thien Quoc , Khatir Samir , Wahab Magd Abdel , Cuong‐Le Thanh
Published: February 2024

This work proposes a novel technique to conduct back‐analysis of lateral displacement of deep cement mixing (DCM) columns in deep excavation construction. For the first time, we propose a process to investigate both soil and underground structure end‐to‐end automatically. The novel technique is a complex combination of three crucial factors: (1) a nature‐inspired optimization algorithm (O), (2) a three‐dimensional PLAXIS Geotechnical Engineering software (P) and (3) a modern Python language programming (P), hereinafter called the a nature‐inspired optimization algorithm (O), a three‐dimensional PLAXIS Geotechnical Engineering software (P) and a modern Python language programming (P) (OPP) technique. The novel meta‐heuristic algorithm simulated the co‐evolved partnership behavior of shrimps and goby fishes, termed Shrimp and Goby Association (SGA), which plays an important role in complex analyses. A series of exams to determine the SGA's performance is conducted on 38 benchmark test functions (IEEE Congress on Evolutionary Computation 2017 and 2019) and three real‐world engineering design problems to showcase its applicability. The metaheuristic and PLAXIS 3D analysis work well together, which makes the back‐analysis technique powerfully to determinate stiffness parameters instead of the traditional approaches. Based on the optimized parameters, the lateral deflection of DCM and soil are well predicted for excavation. This study proposes a technique to estimate efficiently the stiffness parameter for very soft soil. As a consequence of the optimization process, an equation to determine the stiffness parameter of DCM columns from laboratory test is also proposed. Based on the obtained results, this research provides a comprehensive methodology for predicting risk, enhancing safety, saving time and money, and effectively designing and constructing underground structures.
Editor's note
Authors: Mick Connie Snyder
Published: February 2024

This note from the editor provides a brief summary of the articles contained in this issue and invites readers to respond and submit their own articles.
Future range dynamics of Asian yellow‐legged hornets (Vespa velutina) and their range overlap with Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) reveal major challenges for bee conservation in Europe
Authors: Nie Peixiao , Cao Runyao , Yang Rujing , Feng Jianmeng
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The invasion of Asian yellow‐legged hornets (Vespa velutina) has significantly affected Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) and apiculture in Europe. However, the range dynamics of this hornet and its range overlap with the bees under future change scenarios have not yet been clarified. Using land‐use, climate, and topographical datasets, we projected the range dynamics of this hornet and Western honey bees in Europe and the future overlap of their ranges.

RESULTS

We found that climatic factors had stronger effects on the potential ranges of the hornets compared with land‐use and topographical factors. A considerable range expansion of this hornet was predicted, and an increase in the overlap between this pest and the bees was primarily caused by future decreases in temperature seasonality. Additionally, we detected future range expansions of the hornet in the UK and France; future range overlap between this pest and Western honey bees in the UK, Ireland, Portugal, and France; and future overlap between the ranges of this pest and bees but not under recent conditions was mainly projected in Germany, Denmark, and the UK.

CONCLUSION

Mitigating future climate change might effectively control the proliferation of the hornets and their effects on the bees. Strategies for preventing the invasion of this pest and developing European apiculture should be developed and implemented in these regions where future range overlap between them was projected. Given that climate‐change scenarios may result in uncertainty in our projections, further investigation is needed to clarify future range changes of our target species. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Education as a necessity of life: An exploration on Ugandan Education System Quality with reference to John Dewey's Philosophical Correlates
Authors: Charles Muweesi , Sarah Namukose , Anthony Muwagga Mugagga
Published: February 2024

Every country desires and aspires for an education system that caters for learners’ physiological needs, belonging, love, self‐esteem, security and self‐actualisation at the top, which are rarely provided by a few countries. With a review focus on the Ugandan education system, several challenges related to the education borrowing suggestions as proposed by John Dewey have been attributed to creating an environment that has seen most graduates ending up unemployed, and with leadership challenges, inadequate funding, poor teacher perception, low research and innovations in higher institutions of learning, less involvement of the informal sector in development, low literacy levels, political interference among others. Thus this exploratory analytical‐qualitative review focuses on John Dewey's teachings in his book Education and Democracy—specifically chapter 1, ‘Education as Necessity for Life’—with attention on how education as an engine that empowers life, ensures independence through self‐reliance, sustenance, freedom, and is syndrome‐free to enhance appreciation of the contemporary trends in education—critical aspects that are extremely lacking within the current Ugandan education system and can impact on the future of education to the future of education as recommended in National Development Plan III (NDP III). Thus the review recommends that while reflecting on the state of the Ugandan education system, there is a need to revitalise the research and innovations in higher institutions, especially catering for an integral‐education system with a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from primary school to university, involvement of the informal sector through skills education as proposed by the Ugandan Vision 2040 and NDP III, as well as addressing low literacy levels and providing adequate teaching and learning through quality and balanced funding from all relevant government agencies and development partners.
Impacts of temporal/spatial rainfall heterogeneities on peak runoff distribution and intensities for an urban river basin of south China
Authors: Cai Yanpeng , Yang Yueying , Tan Qian , Dai Chao , Zhu Zhihua , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

In this research, a modeling approach of rainfall generator coupled with high resolution rainfall products were proposed to generate designed rainfall events under multiple spatial and temporal distributions, which was then employed to analyze the impacts of spatial and temporal rainfall heterogeneities on peak runoff for watersheds. Three scenarios were developed under multiple degrees of impermeable underlying surface areas within an urban watershed in south China. Detailed runoff processes were analyzed through the adoption of a distributed hydrological model (GSSHA). A covariance analysis method combined with rainfall spatio‐temporal heterogeneity characteristic were used to quantify heterogeneity effects on peak runoff. Results indicated that coupling short period (2008–2016) remotely rainfall data and RainyDay results could successfully reproduce designed rainfall events, spatio‐temporal heterogeneity of rainfall contributed significantly to the peak runoff, which was greater than those by rainfall duration and capacity, and the increase in impermeable underlying surface enhanced the complexities of the effects. Over each rainfall duration with increasing rainfall return period, the indicator of rainfall peak coefficient (RWD) would decrease and then increase. Regarding the total rainfall center (tg), 25 mm/h threshold rainfall spatial coverage (A25) decreased with increasing imperviousness, 1‐h maximum rainfall (Rmax) surged with increasing imperviousness at rainfall duration of 2 and 24 h. Innovations of this research lied in: combination of a rainfall generator model based on a stochastic storm transposition technique and remote‐sensing rainfall data to generate designed rainfall events, a rainfall spatial and temporal heterogeneities index system was developed to reveal how the changing characteristics of rainfall distribution and the impacts on peak runoff, and in‐depth analysis of the impacts on runoff peak under multiple urban development scenarios for increasing capability in flood control/prevention.
Green initiatives and stakeholder engagement: Unveiling the impact of green strategies and CSR on financial performance from descriptive‐normative perspectives of stakeholder theory
Authors: Liao Haojie , Su Lin , Tang Tianyao , Shang Zhaoyan
Published: February 2024

It is vital to bring about sustainable development by incorporating sustainable strategies to drive businesses to align their interests with those of stakeholders. Drawing on stakeholder theory and practices, this study explores the synergistic nexus among green environmental strategies (GES; e.g., energy management, waste management, green procurement, waste conversation, green environment awareness programs, carbon footprint reduction, green data management, and ecological operational strategies), corporate social responsibility (CSR), and financial performance (FnP) of multinational enterprises (MNEs) within the energy and manufacturing sectors of China. A total of seven hundred and forty‐three responses were evaluated by structural equation modeling through SmartPLS software. Findings suggest that GES have a positive connection with FnP. Further, this relationship is positively moderated by CSR. This study contributes to both the theoretical and managerial perspectives. It highlights the notion of GES and CSR by verifying the positive influence of sustainable strategies on FnP.
Role of social capital in agricultural diversification: Implications for sustainable development in rural regions
Authors: Addai Godfred , Guodaar Lawrence , Amponsah Owusu , Ibrahiem Dalia M. , Felix Kpenekuu , Antwi‐Agyei Philip
Published: February 2024

Studies have explored social capital (SC) in diverse ways. Still, little is known in the literature about how its functional areas, including bonding, bridging and linking relationships, interact to facilitate sustainable development, particularly in agricultural diversification. We address this gap by using the rural web and the social capital frameworks to (1) analyse factors influencing SC and (2) assess the relationship between SC and agricultural diversification. Drawing on a survey of 600 rural households and 60 interviews with key stakeholders from the Upper West and Ashanti regions of Ghana, we found that socioeconomic factors, including farm size, remittance, household size and education, significantly influence bonding, bridging and linking SC. The findings also show that rural farmers depend strongly on bonding, bridging and linking SC to improve their livelihoods through agricultural diversification. These findings have implications for achieving SDG targets, particularly poverty reduction (SDG 1) and food security (SDG 2), regarding accessibility to resources, market participation, social empowerment, and contract farming. Therefore, agricultural policies in sub‐Saharan Africa should incorporate SC as a critical indicator for achieving agricultural diversification initiatives and sustainable development objectives.
Evaluating end‐users' digital competencies and ethical perceptions of AI systems in the context of sustainable digital banking
Authors: Fundira McArthur , Edoun Emmanuel Innocents , Pradhan Anup
Published: February 2024

In the pursuit of fostering sustainable digital banking (SDB), this study investigates the nexus between end‐users' digital competencies, perceptions of artificially intelligent systems, and sustainable practices. With a focus on addressing inclusivity barriers and promoting ethical considerations, expert interviews were employed to provide nuanced insights. The study's foundation rests on the significance of sustainable development goals, digital competencies, and artificial intelligence (AI) ethics in shaping the future of digital banking. An interview schedule was developed and distributed online to IT experts and researchers in the field of AI. The instrument examined the major challenges faced by customers in accessing digital banking, the expected timeline for the complete digitalization of the South African banking sector, customers' anticipated competency, and comfort levels with a 100% digital banking interface, and their perspectives on the overall impact of such a transition on humanity. The interview gathered participants' views on AI‐based banking systems that determine credit scores and creditworthiness. The study also included questions to obtain expert opinions on customers' digital capabilities, access to resources, and the impact of AI trust issues on financial service customers. The findings of this study provided valuable insights for stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and financial institutions. Implications derived from expert perspectives illuminate strategies for enhancing digital competencies, addressing inclusivity hurdles, and ensuring ethical AI integration. This study contributes to the sustainable development discourse by offering actionable recommendations for stakeholders in the pursuit of a more inclusive, digitally competent, and ethically responsible digital banking landscape.
Use of win time for ordered composite endpoints in clinical trials
Authors: Troendle James F. , Leifer Eric S. , Yang Song , Jeffries Neal , Kim Dong‐Yun , Joo Jungnam , O'Connor Christopher M.
Published: February 2024

Consider the choice of outcome for overall treatment benefit in a clinical trial which measures the first time to each of several clinical events. We describe several new variants of the win ratio that incorporate the time spent in each clinical state over the common follow‐up, where clinical state means the worst clinical event that has occurred by that time. One version allows restriction so that death during follow‐up is most important, while time spent in other clinical states is still accounted for. Three other variants are described; one is based on the average pairwise win time, one creates a continuous outcome for each participant based on expected win times against a reference distribution and another that uses the estimated distributions of clinical state to compare the treatment arms. Finally, a combination testing approach is described to give robust power for detecting treatment benefit across a broad range of alternatives. These new methods are designed to be closer to the overall treatment benefit/harm from a patient's perspective, compared to the ordinary win ratio. The new methods are compared to the composite event approach and the ordinary win ratio. Simulations show that when overall treatment benefit on death is substantial, the variants based on either the participants' expected win times (EWTs) against a reference distribution or estimated clinical state distributions have substantially higher power than either the pairwise comparison or composite event methods. The methods are illustrated by re‐analysis of the trial heart failure: a controlled trial investigating outcomes of exercise training.
Research on the Impact of Modification Method on 13X Zeolite Molecular Sieve Adsorption Performance for SO2
Authors: Da‐yi Qian , Yuan‐meng Liu , Pei‐liang Shi , Zhen‐song Tong , Wei Su
Published: February 2024

The article takes 13X molecular sieve as the object, studies the effects of three modification methods, including calcination temperature, NaOH solution concentration, and CuO and MnO2 loading, on the adsorption performance of SO2 on 13X molecular sieve, and preliminarily explores the adsorption kinetics characteristics of 13X‐xwt % MnO2. The results show that the modification method of loading 13X‐6wt %MnO2 is better, the penetration adsorption time is about 130 minutes, and the maximum penetrable adsorption capacity is 57.8 mg⋅g‐1 .The adsorption kinetics study of 13X‐6wt % MnO2 shows that the R2 of the quasi‐second‐order model is close to 0.99, indicating that the adsorption process follows the quasi‐second‐order kinetic equation. The particle diffusion kinetic model fitting shows that the adsorption process is divided into two stages, the first stage is rapid adsorption, which is mainly controlled by surface adsorption and intraparticle diffusion rate, while the second stage is mainly microporous or chemisorption, with a smaller adsorption amount.
Unlocking E‐arylidene Steroid Derivatives as Promising α‐Glucosidase Inhibitors
Authors: Danova Ade , Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Hengphasatporn Kowit , Shigeta Yasuteru , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Hermawati Elvira , Chavasiri Warinthorn
Published: February 2024

Type 2 diabetes is common and involves α‐glucosidase inhibition to regulate glucose. We synthesized twenty E‐arylidene steroids with hydroxy and methoxy groups on the aromatic ring. Compounds 3 a, 5 a, 5 b, and 5 d showed notable inhibition, with IC50 values ranging from 1.84±0.28 to 9.25±2.53 μM. Key features for bioactivity include ortho methoxy and α‐hydroxy. Various inhibition mechanisms were observed. In silico studies elucidate the possible binding modes of E‐arylidene steroids, confirming their enzymatic mechanisms of non/un‐competitive inhibitors. Allosteric site 2 emerges as a potential binding site for compounds 3 a, 5 a, and 5 b. Compound 5 d holds promise as a potent α‐glucosidase inhibitor compared to acarbose at the orthosteric receptor binding site.
A Polyvinylidene Fluoride‐Hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP)/Carboxylated g‐C3N4 Composite Separator for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xue Caihong , Wang Xianlan , Yang Guijun , Yang Hao , Nan Hui , Ma Guocai , Xu Shiai
Published: February 2024

Polyvinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP) is a standard electrolyte membrane and binder material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) because of the benefits of membrane formation and strong mechanical properties. Still, its use is limited due to unavoidable defects such as high crystallinity and poor electrochemical performance. In this paper, a larger specific surface area and three‐dimensional (3D) permeable lamellae carboxylated g‐C3N4 (HCN) were successfully prepared by HNO3 and introduced into the PVDF‐HFP to obtain a high‐performance composite separator. The wettability and electrolyte absorption of PVDF‐HFP separator can be improved through the carboxylated HCN. More crucially, because PVDF‐HFP has several active sites and low crystallinity, adding HCN can greatly increase the ionic conductivity of separators. The ionic conductivity of PH‐HCN at 25 °C is 0.52 S cm−1, 4.7 times higher than the initial PVDF‐HFP membrane, and the oxidation potential can reach 4.8 V. The assembled lithium‐ion batteries half‐cell has a capacity of 71 % at a 5 C rate and 94 % after 400 cycles at a 2 C rate. Therefore, the improved separator has the potential to be applied to high‐performance LIBs.
Amberlyst® A‐26(OH) Ion Exchange Resin Catalyzed Synthesis of Imidazo[1,2a] pyridines/thiazoles in Water and their Further Functionalization
Authors: Ghosh Kingkar , Nath Barman Surendra , Choudhury Prasun , Biswas Kinkar
Published: February 2024

Here, we present the development of a synthesis for imidazo[1,2a] pyridine/thiazole derivatives catalyzed by a heterogeneous basic support, specifically Amberlyst® A‐26(OH) ion exchange resin, in a water medium at 60 °C. In pursuit of a green methodology, we opted for this polyionic exchange resin due to its thermal stability and recyclability. Notably, this protocol eliminates the need for strong bases, organic solvents, and additives. The remarkable aspect of this reaction lies in utilizing water as a green solvent, and the synthesized products are easily purified through a straightforward crystallization method. The NMR (1H and 13C) spectroscopy is employed for the characterization of the synthesized products. Furthermore, we explore the additional functionalization of imidazo[1,2a] pyridine/thiazole derivatives.
Lipase‐Catalyzed Hydrolysis of α‐Phenylethyl Esters in a Hydrophobic Ionic Liquid‐Based Bicontinuous Microemulsion Stabilized by Zwitterionic Surfactant
Authors: Ma Jun , Gong Yanjun , Huang Xirong
Published: February 2024

In the present work, the biocompatible sulfobetaine‐type zwitterionic surfactant (SB‐n) was selected to construct hydrophobic ionic liquid (HIL)‐based bicontinuous microemulsion (BME). It is shown that the [C8mim][PF6] (1‐octyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate)‐based BME stabilized by mixed SB‐8/SB‐16 is more suitable for the expression of lipase activity than that stabilized by a single SB‐12. It is also demonstrated that the lipase activity in the present BME is higher than in the corresponding droplet‐type microemulsion. The lipase‐catalyzed hydrolysis of racemic α‐phenylethyl esters was used as a model reaction. It is found that the yield and the enantiomeric excess (ee) value of the product α‐phenylethanol depend on the lipase sources. In the SB‐8/SB‐16‐stabilized BME, Candida antarctica lipase (B) has the best hydrolysis activity and stereoselectivity toward α‐phenylethyl esters. It is also found that the surfactant content, buffer pH and substrate chain length affect the yield and the ee value of the product. Under optimized conditions, a yield of 41 % and an ee value of ~100 % were obtained. The present study is helpful for the development of an effective and environmentally benign medium for lipase‐based conversions.
When not hitting your sales target is ‘the end of the world’: Examining the effects of rational emotive behaviour therapy on the irrational beliefs and emotional reactivity of UK‐based sales professionals
Authors: Turner M. J. , Costello N. , Miller A. , Wood A. G.
Published: February 2024

Against the backdrop of the COVID‐19 pandemic, workplace wellbeing is a key priority for employers. Severe market and health conditions continue to bring inevitable problems that could be reduced with the application of psychological interventions to prevent mental and physical health issues, making this study a highly pertinent and valuable contribution to the field. This paper reports the effects of a rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) programme on the irrational beliefs and emotional reactivity of 56 office‐based sales professionals located in the northwest region of the UK. A pre‐test, post‐test experimental design was utilised, and a mixed model ANOVA (repeated measures) was adopted to assess changes in mean differences concerning irrational beliefs and emotional reactivity at pre and post‐test stages for the intervention group, in comparison to a control group. Results indicate that those in the REBT group reported significant reductions in irrational beliefs and emotional reactivity, whilst those in the control group reported no such changes. It is recommended that future research studies consider utilizing a mixed methods design and focus on a strategic collaboration of organisational and individual level interventions for improving the psychological wellbeing and performance of sales personnel.
Labor force effects of Medicaid and Marketplace expansions: Variation by gender, parental status, and household structure
Authors: Lavender Makayla , Johnston Emily
Published: February 2024

We revisit the Affordable Care Act (ACA)'s Medicaid expansion's labor market effects and build upon it by estimating effects of subsidized Marketplace insurance. Using American Community Survey data, we jointly model the effects of Medicaid and Marketplace expansion on labor force outcomes using simulated eligibility measures. Throughout our analysis, we focus on heterogeneity by gender, parental status, and single versus two‐headed households. Consequently, this is the first paper presenting labor outcomes of the ACA among women with children, an important group, which may be particularly responsive to increased flexibility in meeting income, childcare, and insurance needs. Even among women, we find little evidence that Medicaid eligibility reduced labor force participation. Any significant reductions among women are small in magnitude and not well corroborated by placebo tests. Alternatively, women with children gaining Marketplace eligibility had statistically significant reductions in labor force participation, reductions in hours, and increases in part‐time work.
Aktuelle Erkenntnisse zum Einsatz von Klebstoff in vorgespannten Schraubenverbindungen unter Berücksichtigung von Fertigungseinflüssen
Authors: Mantik Justus , Glienke Ralf , Dörre Maik , Denkert Christian , Vallée Till , Henkel Knuth‐Michael , Fricke Holger
Published: February 2024

Nicht vorwiegend ruhend beanspruchte Konstruktionen werden im Stahlbau i. Allg. mit gleitfest vorgespannten Verbindungen ausgeführt, da diese aufgrund ihrer reibschlüssigen Kraftübertragung einen hohen Ermüdungswiderstand aufweisen. Die übertragbaren Kräfte in Schraubenverbindungen unter Scherbeanspruchung sind jedoch begrenzt. Wird zusätzlich Klebstoff auf die Reibflächen appliziert, entsteht die sog. vorgespannte Hybridverbindung. Die damit verbundene Traglaststeigerung unter Berücksichtigung verschiedener Fertigungseinflüsse und das Tragverhalten unter Dauerstandslast sowie unter Temperatureinfluss werden im folgenden Beitrag thematisiert.
Numerical simulation of the bond behavior of mineral‐impregnated carbon‐fiber reinforcement
Authors: Zernsdorf Kai , Mechtcherine Viktor , Curbach Manfred , Bösche Thomas
Published: February 2024

The bond behavior between reinforcement and concrete has a significant influence on the load‐bearing behavior and serviceability of the composite material. This paper focuses on the characterization of the bond behavior between fine‐grained concrete and mineral‐impregnated carbon‐fiber reinforcement. In this study, the influence of different bond lengths on local bond behavior was experimentally investigated. To predict the bond stress along the bond length, an analytical bond stress‐slip model was specified, and its model parameters were determined based on the experimental tests using an iterative approximation approach. Based on the defined bond stress‐slip model, a numerical bond model was developed and adjusted for the first time. A three‐dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) allows the simulation of the local bond stress along the bond length. Finally, the results of the 3D FEA were compared with the results of the experimental investigations to validate the developed numerical model.
The Politics of Platforms. Exploring Platforms’ Infrastructural Role and Power
Authors: Frapporti Mattia
Published: February 2024

According to widespread literature, platforms are considered infrastructures of contemporary society. While we are accustomed to thinking of infrastructure in tangible terms, in a world where analogical and digital appear increasingly indistinguishable, platforms too become like bridges that support economic, cultural, social exchanges, and more. Assuming this characteristic, however, the fundamental question remains: what is the epistemological advantage in considering platforms as infrastructures? In this chapter, we will delve into what it means to conceive of platforms as infrastructures from a political perspective, and ultimately in terms of power. We will explore the relationship between platforms and State institutions (sometimes marked by collaboration, at other times by competition), and focus on relatively novel sources of power of digital giants, specifically algorithmic management and data extraction: through these capacities, platforms achieve and wield a form of governmental power, as understood in Foucauldian terms. Ultimately, rather than justifying the role of platforms as infrastructures, we will examine the political power that this position affords them, investigating the so-called “infrastructural power” they extend over society, and recalling the forms of resistance that counteract it.
Anomalous dimension of the heavy-light quark current in HQET up to four loops
Authors: Grozin Andrey
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The anomalous dimension of the heavy-light quark current in HQET is calculated up to four loops. The N3LL perturbative correction to fB/fD is obtained.
The q2 moments in inclusive semileptonic B decays
Authors: Finauri G. , Gambino P.
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We compute the first moments of the q2 distribution in inclusive semileptonic B decays as functions of the lower cut on q2, confirming a number of results given in the literature and adding the $$ O\left({\alpha}_s^2{\beta}_0\right) $$
O

α
s
2

β
0

BLM contributions. We then include the q2-moments recently measured by Belle and Belle II in a global fit to the moments. The new data are compatible with the other measurements and slightly decrease the uncertainty on the nonperturbative parameters and on |Vcb|. Our updated value is |Vcb| = (41.97 ± 0.48) × 10−3.