bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirical exploration of the drivers of trust in consumer financial services
Authors: Pattit Jason M. , Pattit Katherina G.
Published: August 2024

Studies on trust in financial institutions are scattered across the literature and the results are often inconsistent, highlighting the need for additional investigation. Thus, relying on 1697 responses to a self‐administered online questionnaire from consumers aged 18 or older in the U.S., we empirically examined several of these inconsistencies. Specifically, we explored how trust differs between seven types of financial services providers and between “customers” and “familiar non‐customers” for each provider type. We also investigated how sociodemographic characteristics, generalized trust, previous experience, and the behavior and characteristics of financial services providers impact trust in different types of providers for “customers” versus “familiar non‐customers.” Our results show that trust ratings differ across providers and between “customers” and “familiar non‐customer” for the same provider type. Our results also show that there are distinct drivers of trust for “familiar non‐customers” and “customers.” Indicators of reputation are important drivers of trust for “familiar non‐customers,” especially for online‐only financial companies. Shared values, interest protection, and personalized service are important drivers of trust for “customers,” especially for investment/brokerage firms, national banks, and credit unions. Taken together, these findings can help researchers and practitioners to better design marketing strategies geared toward building, maintaining, and repairing trust.
Furrow irrigation spacing effects on corn production in vertisols of the Mississippi Delta
Authors: Freeland Trey , Gholson Drew M. , Lo Tsz Him , Singh Gurbir , Kaur Gurpreet , Larson Erick J. , Prince Czarnecki Joby M.
Published: August 2024

The majority of soils in the Mississippi Delta are vertisols, whose shrink–swell behavior makes them prone to waterlogging when subjected to excessive infiltration amounts from conventional management of furrow irrigation. The goal of this investigation was to examine if corn (Zea mays L.) grain yield and quality (test weight, kernel composition, and kernel weight) can be improved in vertisols of this region by widening furrow irrigation spacing while increasing furrow inflow rate proportionally to reduce waterlogging. A research station study at the National Center for Alluvial Aquifer Research and an on‐farm study near Glen Allan, Mississippi, were conducted from 2021 to 2023. Furrow irrigation spacing treatments in the research station study included 3.3 ft, 6.7 ft, 13.3 ft, and 26.7 ft. The on‐farm study included 10 ft, 20 ft, and “tractor track” (alternating between 10 and 30 ft furrow irrigation spacing) treatments. The three years of the research station study showed that the 26.7‐ft treatment yielded 8.5% higher than the narrower treatments at the top position of the field (50–100 ft from the topographically higher end of 500 ft furrows). Higher grain protein and kernel weight were observed halfway between two irrigated furrows of the 13.3‐ft and 26.7‐ft treatments than adjacent to irrigated furrows of any treatment. Corn grain yield in the on‐farm study was not significantly different among furrow irrigation spacing treatments. This research demonstrates that furrow irrigation spacing can be widened to at least 26.7 ft in vertisols of the Mississippi Delta without decreasing corn grain yield and quality.
Ultrasonication‐Boosted Resorcinol‐Formaldehyde Resin Nanoparticle Bromine Fixation and Corresponding Upgraded Aquatic Applications
Authors: Wu Yutong , Wang Qianhui , Yang Keke , Xie Qihong , Wang Guotao , Ma Xinxi , Pan Jiahao , Xia Qiancheng , Wagner Wayko D. , Zhang Yi , Liu Xiang , Wang Chao , Wang Zhoulu
Published: August 2024

Bromine (Br2) and related species removal from water systems are rather complicated due to the complicated chemistry instability, and materials with high Br2 removal rate and efficiency, along with stimuli/apparatus suitable for highly corrosive environments, are necessary. Ultrasonication as a non‐destructive process is especially suitable in scenarios where conventional stir apparatus is not applicable, such as highly corrosive environments. Considering the validity nature of Br2 and combining the advantages of ultrasonic with a highly stable Br2 fixation method through aromatic polymer nanoparticles, we demonstrate highly efficient acoustic‐aided Br2 removal in aqueous solutions with two times capacity compared to the non‐treated sample. Related aquatic applications are also proposed for the materials to be cost‐effective, including silver (Ag) recovery, recyclable MnO2‐mediated Br2 deep removal, and aqueous zinc anode modification. The coupled novel‐material‐based processes motivate the strategic design of water purification with high‐safety and sustainable industrial procedures and post‐value‐added utilizations.
Acid‐Promoted Self‐Photocatalyzed Regioselective Oxidation: A Novel Strategy for Accessing Quinoxaline‐2,3‐diones
Authors: Song Shengjie , Peng Xiaoqing , Zhou Binjie , Zheng Lijun , Sun Jie , Chen Zhi , Li Jianjun
Published: August 2024

Disclosed here is an efficient approach for the preparation of quinoxaline‐2,3‐diones using air (O2) as a green oxidant via acid‐promoted self‐photocatalyzed regioselective oxidation of quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones at C‐3 position. This protocol presents a novel synthetic route for the preparation of quinoxaline‐2,3‐dione derivatives, featuring mild reaction conditions, simple operation, and a wide range of substrates, without the need for external photocatalysts, metal reagents, and strong oxidants.
The Possible Aromatic Conjugation via the Different Edges of (Car)Borane Clusters: Can the Relationship Between 3D and 2D Aromatic Systems Be Reconciled?
Authors: Buzsáki Dániel , Gál Dalma , Harcsa‐Pintér Zsófia , Kalabay László , Kelemen Zsolt
Published: August 2024

The possible aromatic conjugation between 3D and 2D aromatic units is in the focus since the synthesis of benzocarborane. It has been showed that in the 3D aromatic icosahedral 1,2‐dicarba‐closo‐dodecaborane systems fused with 2D aromatic rings a global 3D/2D aromaticity does not exist. Despite this fact during the last years several studies proposed interactions between 2D and 3D moieties. Herein, while tuning the size and the effective charge of the (car)borane systems, we demonstrate that global aromatic character can be excluded in any investigated cases, and the detectable conjugative properties can be explained the effect of the well‐known negative hyperconjugation.
Molecular Docking of Chiral Drug Enantiomers With Different Bioactivities
Authors: Semenova Ekaterina V. , Belova Ekaterina V. , Sulimov Alexey V. , Sulimov Vladimir B.
Published: August 2024

Chirality has an important role in the drug design because enantiomers may exhibit different bioactivity when interacting with macromolecules of a living organism. In our previous work, based on the analysis of a set of 100 chiral drugs, a relationship was established between the sign of chirality of enantiomers and their bioactivity. To understand the reasons for the observed patterns of chiral specificity of drug enantiomers, the interaction of 10 enantiomeric pairs of chiral drugs with the corresponding target proteins has been considered using molecular docking and further postprocessing by quantum chemistry methods. The data obtained confirm that the energetic aspect of the interaction between opposite enantiomers and target protein affects the enantiomer biological activity. In addition, the results show that molecular docking is able to distinguish between bioactive and inactive/less active enantiomers, although many docking programs are not accurate enough to distinguish a weak inhibitor from a strong one.
Artificial Intelligence in Dental Caries Diagnosis and Detection: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Negi Sapna , Mathur Ankita , Tripathy Snehasish , Mehta Vini , Snigdha Niher Tabassum , Adil Abdul Habeeb , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Dental caries is largely preventable, yet an important global health issue. Numerous systematic reviews have summarized the efficacy of artificial intelligence (AI) models for the diagnosis and detection of dental caries. Therefore, this umbrella review aimed to synthesize the results of systematic reviews on the application and effectiveness of AI models in diagnosing and detecting dental caries.

Methods

MEDLINE/PubMed, IEEE Explore, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched to retrieve studies. Two authors independently screened the articles based on eligibility criteria and then, appraised the included articles. The findings are summarized in tabulation form and discussed using the narrative method.

Result

A total of 1249 entries were identified out of which 7 were finally included. The most often employed AI algorithms were the multilayer perceptron, support vector machine (SVM), and neural networks. The algorithms were built to perform the segmentation, classification, caries detection, diagnosis, and caries prediction from several sources, including periapical radiographs, panoramic radiographs, smartphone images, bitewing radiographs, near‐infrared light transillumination images, and so forth. Convoluted neural networks (CNN) demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve in the caries detection, segmentation, and classification tests. Notably, AI in conjunction with periapical and panoramic radiography images yielded better accuracy in detecting and diagnosing dental caries.

Conclusion

AI models, especially convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based models, have an enormous amount of potential for accurate, objective dental caries diagnosis and detection. However, ethical considerations and cautious adoption remain critical to its successful integration into routine practice.
Factors Impacting Quality of Life in a Group of Iranian Patients in Chronic Oral Mucosal Disease Following Treatment?
Authors: Shooriabi Mohammad , Mousavy Sedigheh Modarres , Kaabomeir Farideh , Jafari Elham
Published: August 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of treatment on the quality of life of patients with chronic oral mucosal diseases. Specifically, the study aimed to determine how treatment affects the changes in the quality of life of these patients.

Methods

This descriptive study involved 220 patients diagnosed with chronic oral mucosal lesions. Data were collected using the Chronic Oral Mucosal Disease Questionnaire, validated for use in Persian/Farsi. The study population was selected through convenience sampling. Data analysis employed descriptive statistical methods, including frequency and percentage distribution tables, graphs, measures of central tendency, and dispersion. Additionally, confidence intervals were utilized for the studied ratios and indices.

Results

Among the study population, 129 (58.6%) were male and 91 (41.4%) were female. The mean quality of life, as assessed by the utilized questionnaire, was 61.9 ± 13.2. The results indicated that females and unemployed individuals reported lower quality of life compared to males and employed individuals, respectively, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In the population studied the quality of life of patients with chronic mucous membrane diseases was influenced by various factors, including gender, income, employment, and place of residence.
Prevalence of Middle Mesial Canal in Mandibular First Permanent Molars in a Persian Population: An In Vivo Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Hajizadeh Samaneh , Amiri Morteza Khodabandeh , Mihandoust Sanaz , Sabet Zhaleh Shafiei , Khomeiran Rasoul Tabari
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of the middle mesial canal (MMC) in mandibular first permanent molars in a Persian subpopulation sample using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). The secondary aim was to correlate the incidence of MMC with variables such as gender, age, and the presence of an additional distal canal.

Materials and Method

A total of 390 mandibular first molars from 314 CBCT images were retrospectively evaluated. The presence of the MMC was recorded while considering related factors such as additional distal canal and demographic information of the patients (age and gender). Fisher's exact tests and independent‐samples t‐test were used for the statistical comparisons with a significance level of 0.05.

Results

Among 390 mandibular first molars, 34 teeth contained an MMC (8.7%). The number of teeth with the MMC in women was equal to that of men. There was no significant difference between the two genders in the prevalence of the MMC (p > 0.05). The prevalence of patients' MMC had no significant relationship with their age (p > 0.05). However, there was a significant association between the presence of the MMC and an additional distal canal (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The incidence of an additional distal canal in teeth with a diagnosed MMC was statistically significant. The prevalence of the MMC in mandibular first molars in the study population was low; however, accurate knowledge of root canal morphology in terms of the presence of an additional root canal in these teeth should be considered.
Comparison of the Opinions of Adolescents With Different Orthodontic Treatment Needs
Authors: Krekmanova Larisa , Shakrchi Shams , Gicic Amina , Naoumova Julia
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to compare oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) among adolescents granted (G) versus not granted (NG) publicly funded orthodontic treatment.

Materials and Methods

Adolescents aged 15–20 years who were granted versus not granted publicly funded orthodontic treatment responded to a web‐based survey, assessing OHRQoL in relation to functional impact, psychological impact, and motivators for orthodontic treatment. Before the survey, pretesting of the questionnaire was conducted to ensure its reliability. Differences between the groups were tested using the chi‐squared and Mann–Whitney U‐tests. Reliability was assessed using Cohen's κ and Pearson's correlation coefficient during the pretest phase.

Results

One hundred and forty patients, equally distributed between a G and an NG group, responded to the survey. Gender, age, and demographic distribution were comparable in both groups. All respondents expressed a high subjective treatment need and similar answers regarding functional aspects. Orthodontic treatment motivators (G: 86.2% and NG: 94.7%, p = 0.443) were primarily related to improved self‐esteem, overall well‐being, facial appearance, and being able to laugh without embarrassment. The NG group expressed a more negative OHRQoL impact due to the appearance of their teeth compared with the G group (p < 0.001) and a negative impact caused by the position of their teeth (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Orthodontic treatment need indices should aim to reinforce subjective measures as adolescents express similar motivators for orthodontic treatment, regardless of the clinician's objectively based decision about treatment need.
Biobased Self‐Healing Thin Film Coatings Based on Poly (Itaconic Acid Esters)
Authors: Fischer von Mollard S. Charlotte , Fesser Patrick , Klein Michael , Köhler Martin , Schreiber Martin , Kamphuis Frank , Zechel Stefan , Hager Martin D.
Published: August 2024

Paper used for packaging applications is often coated with thin polymer coatings to improve the properties, like printability and barrier properties, respectively. Today, these coatings are still often based on petroleum‐based polymers. In this study, the fabrication of biobased thin film coatings is described. Poly(itaconic acid ester)s, which are prepared by emulsion polymerization, are used as water‐based coatings for paper. The thermal properties of the polymers are tuned by the side chain of the monomers (diethyl itaconate vs. dibutyl itaconate). Different formulations based on the polymer emulsion and additives, like rheology modifiers, are prepared and their film formation is studied. The usage of a rheology modifier results in excellent film formation. These polymer coatings feature an additional function ‐ they are capable of self‐healing. The healing ability is studied in scratch healing tests, in which almost complete recovery can be observed after healing at 100 °C. Moreover, the restoration of optical properties/aesthetics is studied. In gloss measurements before and after damage as well as after a healing time the complete recovery of the gloss can be observed. Furthermore, the barrier properties against fat are studied.
Starch‐based “smart” nanomicelles: Potential delivery systems for doxorubicin
Authors: Prasher Parteek , Sharma Mousmee
Published: August 2024

Vesicular nanosystems are a cornerstone to the contemporary drug delivery paradigm owing to their ability to encapsulate a variety of drug molecules, which improves the overall pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of the cargo drug. These systems have proven potential in the delivery of hydrophobic chemotherapeutic “Doxorubicin” (DOX), which faces frequent challenge relating to its nonspecific interactions, dose‐limiting toxicity (myelosuppression being the most common manifestation), and short half‐life (distribution half‐life of 5 min, terminal half‐life of 20–48 h), which limit its overall clinical effectiveness. “Smart” nanomicelles with stimuli‐responsive linkages take advantage of tumor microenvironment for deploying the cargo drug at the target site, which prevents nonspecific distribution and, hence, low toxicity. Similarly, those with stealth properties evade protein response, which triggers the immunogenic response. The nanomicelles co‐loaded with magnetic nanoparticles provide additional utility such as contrast enhancement agents in theranostics. Overall, the starch‐based nanomicelles prove to be an excellent delivery system for overcoming the limitations associated with the conventional DOX delivery regime.
Gel immersion endoscopic mucosal resection for small gastric neoplastic lesions: A pilot study
Authors: Hashimoto Kosei , Ino Yuji , Ishii Hiroaki , Shinozaki Satoshi , Miura Yoshimasa , Despott Edward J. , Yano Tomonori , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: August 2024

Gastric endoscopic mucosal resection is challenging due to the slippery mucosa, abundant blood vessels, and the presence of mucus. We developed gel immersion endoscopy to secure the visual field, even in a blood‐filled gastrointestinal lumen in 2016. Clear gel with appropriate viscosity, instead of water, can prevent rapid mixture with blood and facilitate identification of the culprit vessel. We further optimized the gel for endoscopic treatment, and the resultant product, Viscoclear (Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory) was first released in Japan in 2020. The viscosity of this gel has been optimized to maximize endoscopic visibility without compromising the ease of its irrigation. The aim of this study is to clarify the effectiveness of gel immersion endoscopic mucosal resection for small‐sized early gastric neoplasms. Seven lesions in seven patients were treated by gel immersion endoscopic mucosal resection. The size of all lesions was under 10 mm. The median procedure time was 4.5 min. Intraoperative bleeding occurred in four of seven lesions immediately after snare resection and was easily controlled by endoscopic hemostatic forceps during the gel immersion endoscopy. The R0 resection rate was 100%. In conclusion, gel immersion endoscopic mucosal resection may be a straightforward, rapid, and safe technique for resecting superficial gastric neoplasms <10 mm in diameter.
Traceability of cowpea origin from southern China using stable isotopes and multi‐elements
Authors: Nie Jing , Rogers Karyne M. , Deng Xunfei , Li Chunlin , Wang Zhiwei , Wang Xiangyun , Huan Zhibo , Mei Hanyi , Wadood Syed Abdul , Shao Shengzhi , Zhang Yongzhi , Wang Mingyue , Yuan Yuwei
Published: August 2024

Verification of cowpea geographical origin has become more critical in recent times to guarantee food safety and enhance government management of potentially hazardous pesticide farming practices. Cowpea samples harvested in five major southern provinces in China were characterized by stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N, δ2H, δ18O) and elemental contents (Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn, Mo, C, N) using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. A combined isotope and elemental approach reflected regional elemental differences from China's eastern seaboard that are uptaken by cowpea from the environment. Results showed that many of the isotope and elemental variables differed significantly among production regions, with Cu, Zn, δ18O, P, K, δ13C, Mo, Ca, and Mg identified as the most important classification variables of projection (VIP > 1). Stable isotopes and elemental contents were representative of regional and local climate, soil geology, and fertilization practices, respectively. The cowpea elemental contents analyzed in this study were all within the expected guideline range for Asian vegetables and posed no health concerns to consumers. Two regional models and one local model based on supervised pattern recognition method of Partial Least Squares‐Discriminant Analysis (PLS‐DA) were developed, and the overall discrimination accuracies ranged from 78.0% to 99.2%. These chemometric models provide a useful method to verify Chinese cowpea origins and improve food safety controls for consumers.
Postbiotics: Enhancing human health with a novel concept
Authors: Da Mingzhi , Sun Jun , Ma Chen , Li Daotong , Dong Li , Wang Li‐Shu , Chen Fang
Published: August 2024

Postbiotics is a novel category of biotics that encompasses dead cells, metabolites, and derivatives from gut microbiota. These substances can exhibit their effects without containing cells, such as in cell‐free supernatants and spent media. Examples of widely studied postbiotics include short‐chain fatty acids, exopolysaccharides, cell wall fragments, and bacterial lysates. Evidence suggests that postbiotics have numerous benefits for human health, including antiaging, and anti‐inflammatory properties, and participation in immune and lipid metabolism regulation. Specifically, postbiotics can improve intestinal health by strengthening the intestinal barrier, reducing inflammation, and promoting antibacterial activity. These findings may pave the way for the development of postbiotic functional foods in the future. This review provides an overview of the components, health effects, and industrial applications of postbiotics, aiming to consolidate existing research conclusions and serve as a reference for future studies.
Dopamine‐modified Highly Dispersed ZIF‐8 to Promote CO2 Absorption
Authors: Jiang Donglin , Zhou Yuchen , Du Mengfan , Chen Zezhi , Gong Huijuan
Published: August 2024

CO2 capture technology has been widely used to reduce CO2 emissions, resulting in a variety of capture methods and materials. Among them, the more widely used is the chemical absorption method. However, the chemical absorption method has problems such as high energy consumption and slow absorption rate. In order to solve the above problems, we prepared an effective catalyst to improve the CO2 absorption rate. ZIF‐8 and hydrophilic ZIF‐8‐DA were prepared by in situ synthesis under ambient conditions. The catalytic effect of the hydration reaction of ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐8‐DA was tested using CO2 absorption regeneration experiments under aqueous and alkaline conditions, respectively. The results showed that the synthesized catalysts could significantly enhance the CO2 absorption in water and alkaline solution. The addition of 0.1 wt % of ZIF‐8 in alkaline solution increased the average CO2 absorption by 1.80–15.84 %, respectively, while the addition of 0.1 wt % of ZIF‐8‐DA increased the CO2 absorption by 7.01–25.36 %. In addition, both catalysts had excellent reusability and maintained high performance even after five absorption and regeneration cycles. Polymer dispersibility index (PDI) results showed that ZIF‐8‐DA dispersed more uniformly in aqueous solution.
High‐Throughput Experimentation (HTE) Applied to the Synthesis of API Impurities: A Case Study in Oxidative Decarboxylation of Aryl Acetic Acids
Authors: Paolo Luciano , Martínez Fornaso Patricio , Elhalem Eleonora , Julieta Comin María , Gandolfi Donadío Lucía , Bellomo Ana
Published: August 2024

High‐throughput experimentation (HTE) has dramatically impacted experimental reaction development by enabling the rapid exploration of a diverse set of reaction conditions. During the past few decades, HTE has evolved as a tool to expedite reaction discovery and optimization. This work details the application of HTE to synthesize impurities of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with ketone/aldehyde functionality, specially focusing on ibuprofen impurity E. Initial experiments using K2S2O8 as oxidant yielded moderate results. Subsequent HTE screens identified cerium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and RuCl3‐NaIO4 as new effective decarboxylative oxidants, with RuCl3‐NaIO4 in the presence of tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) achieving the highest yield of 65 %. This optimized method was successfully applied to synthesize ibuprofen impurity E on a gram scale. Additionally, the applicability of these methods to obtain other API related substances, such as naproxen impurity L and ketoprofen impurity A, was demonstrated. This research highlights the potential of HTE to streamline the synthesis of API impurities, making them widely accessible for pharmaceutical development purposes.
A study on the effect of print parameters on the internal structural quality of 316 L samples printed via laser powder bed fusion: Experimental and algorithmic approach
Authors: Alaparthi Suresh , Subadra Sharath P. , Skaria Roy , Mayer Eduard , Sheikhi Shahram
Published: August 2024

This work aims to establish a quality assurance methodology for additively manufactured (AM) samples, produced from laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) method. The method incorporates resonance frequency method (RFM), where reference samples from wrought 316 L will be used to establish a data‐base with a set of reference frequencies. The data‐base is enhanced further with simulated frequencies, via FEM method, which was carried out on samples with the same dimensions and material properties as those of the reference. The quality of LPBF samples were benchmarked against this database. Four sets of LPBF samples (termed as A, B, C, and D) were printed with different parameters, and their densities were measured to understand deviations from the reference database. It was observed that Set‐C had the least drop in density of approx. 0.65% when compared to the wrought samples. Microscopic analysis revealed that the melt pools were clearly visible in all the samples, with no significant effect from different print parameters. Subsequently RFM was performed on all the sets and clear shifts in frequencies observed. Set‐C had the least deviation when compared to the reference (averaged at 200 Hz), whereas it was 250, 300, and 400 Hz for Set‐D, Set‐A and Set‐B respectively. There are several reasons for the frequency shift, the presence of porosity being one of them. Set‐B had the highest concentration of porosity in the ‐YZ plane. An algorithm was developed to sort the samples based on the frequency shifts seen from those of the samples from wrought 316 L. The sorting methodology was based on the shift frequencies, and the farther the sift is from the wrought the worst it get in terms of quality. The algorithm, which is programmed based on this methodology, was tested on a new set of LPBF samples and its effectiveness validated.
Hedgerows enhance the size selectivity of eroded sediment from sloping farmland under simulated rainfall experiment
Authors: Xiao Hai , Guo Junkui , Xia Zhenyao , Guo Ping , Gao Feng , Xiang Rui , Liu Deyu , Ding Yu , Wang Di , Zhang Lun
Published: August 2024

The particle size distribution (PSD) of eroded sediment can effectively reflect changes in erosion processes. Hedgerows provide significant soil and water conservation benefits and influence erosion processes. However, the impact of hedgerows on the PSD of eroded sediment remains unclear. Therefore, three slope conditions (control check, CK; only hedgerow root, R; and whole hedgerow, P) involving the configuration of two slope gradients (15 and 25°) were established, and simulated rainfall experiments were conducted under three rainfall intensities (60, 90, and 120 mm/h). The PSD, sediment sorting process, and sediment particle agglomeration degree under the different slope conditions were compared to evaluate the influence of hedgerows on the size selectivity of eroded sediment during water erosion. Moreover, the direct and indirect effects of hedgerows on the sorting process and sediment particle agglomeration degree were revealed via correlation analysis and partial least squares path modelling (PLS–PM). Compared with those under CK slope conditions, the average clay, fine silt, and coarse silt contents under R slope conditions decreased by 1.37%, 0.06%, and 1.71%, respectively, whereas the sand content increased by 0.46%. Under P slope conditions, the average clay, fine silt, and coarse silt contents increased by 32.61%, 38.71%, and 36.14%, respectively, whereas the average sand content decreased by 47.30%. Under CK slope conditions, sediment sorting occurred primarily during the early stages of rainfall. R slope conditions caused an increase in the duration of early‐stage sediment sorting but caused a reduction in the degree of sorting, whereas P slope conditions exhibited interceptive sorting of sand throughout the rainfall event. Under R slope conditions, more aggregates were dispersed into individual particles due to raindrop impact, whereas under P slope conditions, more fine particles aggregated initially, but loose aggregates were dispersed into individual particles during the later rainfall stages. The enrichment rates of fine silt and coarse silt were positively correlated with slope conditions, whereas they were negatively correlated with the enrichment rate of sand. However, there was no significant relationship between the slope conditions and the aggregation rates of particles of various sizes. PLS–PM indicated that hedgerows directly and indirectly affect sorting processes and sediment particle agglomeration degree by regulating runoff and sediment erosion, and the direct effects exceed the indirect effects. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the influential mechanisms of hedgerows on controlling soil erosion.
Time cells in the retrosplenial cortex
Authors: Subramanian Dev Laxman , Smith David M.
Published: August 2024

The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is a key component of the brain's memory systems, with anatomical connections to the hippocampus, anterior thalamus, and entorhinal cortex. This circuit has been implicated in episodic memory and many of these structures have been shown to encode temporal information, which is critical for episodic memory. For example, hippocampal time cells reliably fire during specific segments of time during a delay period. Although RSC lesions are known to disrupt temporal memory, time cells have not been observed there. In this study, we reanalyzed archival RSC neuronal firing data during the intertrial delay period from two previous experiments involving different behavioral tasks, a blocked alternation task and a cued T‐maze task. For the blocked alternation task, rats were required to approach the east or west arm of a plus maze for reward during different blocks of trials. Because the reward locations were not cued, the rat had to remember the goal location for each trial. In the cued T‐maze task, the reward location was explicitly cued with a light and the rats simply had to approach the light for reward, so there was no requirement to hold a memory during the intertrial delay. Time cells were prevalent in the blocked alternation task, and most time cells clearly differentiated the east and west trials. We also found that RSC neurons could exhibit off‐response time fields, periods of reliably inhibited firing. Time cells were also observed in the cued T‐maze, but they were less prevalent and they did not differentiate left and right trials as well as in the blocked alternation task, suggesting that RSC time cells are sensitive to the memory demands of the task. These results suggest that temporal coding is a prominent feature of RSC firing patterns, consistent with an RSC role in episodic memory.
Exploration of barriers and enablers to diabetes care for Aboriginal people on rural Ngarrindjeri Country
Authors: Omodei‐James Shanti , Wilson Annabelle , Kropinyeri Renee , Cameron Darryl , Wingard Sharon , Kerrigan Caitlin , Scriven Talia , Wilson Stacy , Mendham Amy E. , Spaeth Brooke , Stranks Stephen , Kaambwa Billingsley , Ullah Shahid , Worley Paul , Ryder Courtney
Published: August 2024

Issues Addressed

Addressing the disproportionate burden of type 2 diabetes prevalence in Aboriginal communities is critical. Current literature on diabetes care for Aboriginal people is primarily focused on remote demographics and overwhelmingly dominated by Western biomedical models and deficit paradigms. This qualitative research project adopted a strengths‐based approach to explore the barriers and enablers to diabetes care for Aboriginal people on Ngarrindjeri Country in rural South Australia.

Methods

Knowledge Interface methodology guided the research as Aboriginal and Western research methods were drawn upon. Data collection occurred using three yarning sessions held on Ngarrindjeri Country. Yarns were transcribed and deidentified before a qualitative thematic analysis was conducted, guided by Dadirri and a constructivist approach to grounded theory.

Results

A total of 15 participants attended the yarns. Major barriers identified by participants were underscored by the ongoing impacts of colonisation. This was combated by a current of survival as participants identified enablers to diabetes care, namely a history of healthy community, working at the knowledge interface, motivators for action, and an abundance of community skills and leadership.

Conclusions

Despite the raft of barriers detailed by participants throughout the diabetes care journey, Aboriginal people on Ngarrindjeri Country were found to be uniquely positioned to address diabetes prevalence and management.

So What?

Health promotion efforts with Aboriginal people on Ngarrindjeri Country must acknowledge the sustained impacts of colonisation, while building on the abundance of community enablers, skills and strengths. Opportunities present to do so by adopting holistic, community‐led initiatives that shift away from the dominant biomedical approach to diabetes care.
Together we win! Narratives of couples pursuing a healthy diet and physical activity: A qualitative study
Authors: Nizamani Sundus , Agarwal Catherine R. Knight , Somerset Shawn , McFarlane R. A.
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major risk factor for non‐communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The risk of MetS can be transmitted via epigenetic processes from both the mother and the father. Therefore, it is essential that both members of a couple are targeted in pre‐conception nutrition and physical activity‐based lifestyle programs. However, lifestyle interventions targeting both members of a couple are scarce in the literature. This study, therefore, aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators of a couples‐based lifestyle intervention.

Methods

Nulliparous couples who had an interest in having children in the future were recruited to the study and each member interviewed separately to gain insight into to gain insight into designing future couples‐based lifestyle interventions. Interviews were conducted between June and October 2021. Reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) was applied to conduct and analyse semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews with nulliparous couples who had an interest in having children in the future.

Results

Four major themes were identified in nine couples aged 25–34 years (here referred to as “millennials”): Millennials are committed to preparation for their future offspring; millennials know features of a good program likely to have high adherence and long‐term behavior change; millennials acknowledge the importance of couples‐based programs; and millennials appreciate that future global emergencies may require lifestyle modifications.

Conclusion

This study found that millennial couples showed a strong intention to create optimal emotional, financial, and health conditions for their children. They supported couples‐based approach (CBA) lifestyle interventions to mitigate potential epigenetic risks. Couples believed that participating together in these programs would enhance adherence to healthy habits, promoting long‐term well‐being. The findings advocate for exploring and testing CBA interventions that target both partners, as joint participation not only aids in healthy conception and reduces metabolic syndrome risks but also establishes a foundation for family health. These insights highlight the potential of CBA interventions to positively impact future generations.
Rate and sociodemographic correlates of depression, anxiety, and stress among domestic and overseas medical students: A cross‐sectional observation from a private medical college in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Khayrul , Kibria Md. Golam , Amin Rizwana , Sharna Tasnia Ishaque , Nahar Samsun , Arafat S. M. Yasir
Published: August 2024

Background

Depression, anxiety, and stress are the commonly encountered mental health conditions among medical students. Overseas environment may add additional burden to the existing environment. However, comparison of the rate and associated factors of depression, anxiety, stress among domestic and overseas students has not been attempted in Bangladesh. We aimed to assess the rate and associated factors of depression, anxiety, stress among domestic and overseas medical students in the country.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 360 undergraduate medical students in 2021. Data were collected by self‐reporting instruments by a stratified random sampling method by the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale‐21 scale. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were done by computing crude odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval to identify the associated factors.

Results

Among the 360 undergraduate medical students, 181 were domestic and 179 overseas ones. 44.8% of domestic students reported depressive symptoms, 45.3% reported anxiety symptoms, and 33.1% reported stress. On the other hand, half of overseas students experienced depression (50.3%) and anxiety (52.5%), and 41.3% experienced stress. Female medical students were found vulnerable for developing depression, anxiety, and stress than males.

Conclusions

The study revealed higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress among overseas undergraduate medical students enrolled in a private medical school of Bangladesh. Private medical college authorities could consider special services for overseas students to ensure adequate psychosocial support.
Assessment of air pollution removal by urban trees based on the i-Tree Eco Model: The case of Tehran, Iran
Authors: Rasoolzadeh Reihaneh , Mobarghaee Dinan Naghmeh , Esmaeilzadeh Hassan , Rashidi Yousef , Sadeghi Seyed Mohammad Moein
Published: August 2024

Air quality concerns have become increasingly serious in metropolises such as Tehran (Iran) in recent years. This study aims to assess the contribution of urban trees in Tehran toward mitigating air pollution and to evaluate the economic value of this ecosystem service using the i-Tree Eco model. To accomplish this objective, we utilized Tehran's original land use map, identifying five distinct land use categories: commercial and industrial, parks and urban forests, residential areas, roads and transportation, and urban services. Field data necessary for this analysis were collected from 316 designated plots, each with a radius of 11.3 m, and subsequently analyzed using the i-Tree Eco model. The locations of these plots were determined using the stratified sampling method. The results illustrate that Tehran's urban trees removed 1286.4 tons of pollutants in 2020. Specifically, the annual rates of air pollution removal were found to be 134.8 tons for CO; 299.7 tons for NO2; 270.3 tons for O3; 0.7 tons for PM2.5; 489.4 tons for PM10 (particulate matter with a diameter size between 2.5 and 10 µm); and 91.5 tons for SO2, with an associated monetary value of US$1 536 619. However, despite this significant removal capacity, the impact remains relatively small compared with the total amount of pollution emitted in 2020, accounting for only 0.17%. This is attributed to the high emissions rate and low per capita green space in the city. These findings could serve as a foundation for future research and urban planning initiatives aimed at enhancing green spaces in urban areas, thereby promoting sustainable urban development. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2142–2152. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

Tehran's urban trees removed 1286 tons of pollutants in 2020, and yet their contribution toward improving air quality was relatively small, accounting for less than 1% of the overall pollution reduction and unable to offset local emissions due to dormancy in winter. Compared with other preferred approaches, such as replacing eroded diesel buses and trucks with newer models, urban trees showed the lowest cost-effectiveness in improving air quality but were insufficient on their own. Urban planners and managers must consider the combined impact of urban trees with other approaches to significantly mitigate air pollution and ensure city sustainability. Future research should investigate the role of shrubs alongside trees in reducing air pollution and quantify the combined air pollution removal by vegetation canopies to fully understand urban green infrastructure's effectiveness in mitigating air pollution.
Corporate capital structure in BRICS economies: An integrated analysis of ESG, firm, industry, and macroeconomic determinants
Authors: Bagh Tanveer , Hunjra Ahmed Imran , Guo Yongsheng , Bouri Elie
Published: August 2024

In this study, we examine the effect of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, firms, industry, macroeconomics, and financial determinants on corporate capital structure. Using a sample of 3420 listed firms from BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) countries over the period 2013 to 2022, the key findings are summarised as follows: ESG performance negatively impacts market leverage, whereas it positively affects book leverage, implying that firms with a higher ESG score benefit from lower financing costs. Firm characteristics, such as the tangibility of assets and the size of the firm, have a positive impact on leverage, whereas profitability, growth opportunity, and business risk have a negative impact. Industry‐level determinants, such as munificence and industry concentration, negatively affect leverage, whereas dynamism has a positive effect. Additionally, higher GDP growth and lower inflation are negatively associated with leverage. Private credit positively impacts capital structure, while stock market development has a negative impact. A sub‐sample (country‐wise) analysis highlights varying impacts across BRICS countries, showing positive effects on book leverage. ESG scores have varying effects on leverage. The study findings have implications for firm managers and policymakers, stressing the need to align financing strategies with sustainability, firm characteristics, and economic conditions in these influential countries.
Defining contribution: A scoping review
Authors: Deal Colin J. , Jørgensen Helene , Sivak Allison , Holt Nicholas L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The term contribution is a key feature of approaches to positive youth development but has yet to be adequately defined. The purposes of this study were to identify properties that underlie contribution and to establish a theoretical definition of the construct.

Methods

A two‐phase scoping review was conducted. The first phase involved the systematic search, selection, and analysis of studies from which six properties of contribution were identified and a preliminary theoretical definition was constructed. In the second phase expert judges rated the degree to that the proposed definition and the six properties of contribution fit with their conceptualization of the construct on a 6‐point scale.

Results

Mean ratings for the definition and the six properties ranged from 5.05 to 5.70. Judges' ratings for the overall definition of contribution and the six properties were evaluated using Aiken's content validity coefficient (V). All V coefficients ranged in size from 0.81 to 0.94 and were statistically significant (p's < .01) indicating that the definition of contribution and the corresponding six properties fit well with experts' conceptualizations of the construct.

Conclusion

This study provides a theoretical definition of contribution that will serve as a foundation upon which future research in the area of positive youth development can build.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy With Temperature Functional Tests in the Assessment of Markers of Intracellular Energy Metabolism: Spatial Heterogeneity and Reproducibility of Measurements
Authors: Ryzhkova Ekaterina , Morgunova Tatyana , Potapova Elena , Ryzhkov Ivan , Fadeyev Valentin
Published: August 2024

The fluorescence intensities of the cellular respiratory cofactors NADH (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and FAD++ (oxidized flavin adenine dinucleotide) reflect energy metabolism in skin and other tissues and can be quantified in vivo by fluorescence spectroscopy (FS). However, the variability of physiological parameters largely determines the reproducibility of measurement results and the reliability of the diagnostic test. In this prospective study, we evaluated the interday reproducibility of NADH and FAD++ fluorescence intensity measurements in the skin of 51 healthy volunteers assessed by the FS at baseline, after local cooling (10°C) and heating of the skin (35°C). Results showed that the fluorescence amplitude of NADH (AFNADH) in forearm skin was the most reproducible of the FS parameters studied. Assessment of AFNADH in the dorsal forearm in combination with a thermal functional test is the most promising method for clinical use for assessing energy metabolism in the skin.