bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ecologically sound and participatory monitoring network for pan‐Arctic seabirds
Authors: Clairbaux Manon , Rönkä Mia , Anker‐Nilssen Tycho , Artukhin Yuri , Danielsen Jóhannis , Gavrilo Maria , Gilchrist Grant , Hansen Erpur Snær , Hedd April , Kaler Robert , Kuletz Kathy , Olsen Bergur , Mallory Mark L. , Merkel Flemming Ravn , Strøm Hallvard , Fort Jérôme , Grémillet David
Published: May 2024

In a warming Arctic, circumpolar long‐term monitoring programs are key to advancing ecological knowledge and informing environmental policies. Calls for better involvement of Arctic peoples in all stages of the monitoring process are widespread, although such transformation of Arctic science is still in its infancy. Seabirds stand out as ecological sentinels of environmental changes, and priority has been given to implement the Circumpolar Seabird Monitoring Plan (CSMP). We assessed the representativeness of a pan‐Arctic seabird monitoring network focused on the black‐legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) by comparing the distribution of environmental variables for all known versus monitored colonies. We found that with respect to its spatiotemporal coverage, this monitoring network does not fully embrace current and future environmental gradients. To improve the current scheme, we designed a method to identify colonies whose inclusion in the monitoring network will improve its ecological representativeness, limit logistical constraints, and improve involvement of Arctic peoples. We thereby highlight that inclusion of study sites in the Bering Sea, Siberia, western Russia, northern Norway, and southeastern Greenland could improve the current monitoring network and that their proximity to local populations might allow increased involvement of local communities. Our framework can be applied to improve existing monitoring networks in other ecoregions and sociological contexts.
One Cue's Loss Is Another Cue's Gain—Learning Morphophonology Through Unlearning
Authors: Mujezinović Erdin , Kapatsinski Vsevolod , van de Vijver Ruben
Published: May 2024

A word often expresses many different morphological functions. Which part of a word contributes to which part of the overall meaning is not always clear, which raises the question as to how such functions are learned. While linguistic studies tacitly assume the co‐occurrence of cues and outcomes to suffice in learning these functions (Baer‐Henney, Kügler, & van de Vijver, 2015; Baer‐Henney & van de Vijver, 2012), error‐driven learning suggests that contingency rather than contiguity is crucial (Nixon, 2020; Ramscar, Yarlett, Dye, Denny, & Thorpe, 2010). In error‐driven learning, cues gain association strength if they predict a certain outcome, and they lose strength if the outcome is absent. This reduction of association strength is called unlearning. So far, it is unclear if such unlearning has consequences for cue–outcome associations beyond the ones that get reduced. To test for such consequences of unlearning, we taught participants morphophonological patterns in an artificial language learning experiment. In one block, the cues to two morphological outcomes—plural and diminutive—co‐occurred within the same word forms. In another block, a single cue to only one of these two outcomes was presented in a different set of word forms. We wanted to find out, if participants unlearn this cue's association with the outcome that is not predicted by the cue alone, and if this allows the absent cue to be associated with the absent outcome. Our results show that if unlearning was possible, participants learned that the absent cue predicts the absent outcome better than if no unlearning was possible. This effect was stronger if the unlearned cue was more salient. This shows that unlearning takes place even if no alternative cues to an absent outcome are provided, which highlights that learners take both positive and negative evidence into account—as predicted by domain general error‐driven learning.
Integrated metabolomics analysis reveals mechanistic insights into variability in blood pressure response to thiazide diuretics and beta blockers
Authors: Mehanna Mai , McDonough Caitrin W. , Smith Steven M. , Gong Yan , Gums John G. , Chapman Arlene B. , Johnson Julie A. , Cooper‐DeHoff Rhonda M.
Published: May 2024

Hypertensive patients with a higher proportion of genetic West African ancestry (%GWAA) have better blood pressure (BP) response to thiazide diuretics (TDs) and worse response to β‐blockers (BBs) than those with lower %GWAA, associated with their lower plasma renin activity (PRA). TDs and BBs are suggested to reduce BP in the long term through vasodilation via incompletely understood mechanisms. This study aimed at identifying pathways underlying ancestral differences in PRA, which might reflect pathways underlying BP‐lowering mechanisms of TDs and BBs. Among hypertensive participants enrolled in the Pharmacogenomics Evaluation of Antihypertensive Responses (PEAR) and PEAR‐2 trials, we previously identified 8 metabolites associated with baseline PRA and 4 metabolic clusters (including 39 metabolites) that are different between those with GWAA <45% versus ≥45%. In the current study, using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), we integrated these signals. Three overlapping metabolic signals within three significantly enriched pathways were identified as associated with both PRA and %GWAA: ceramide signaling, sphingosine 1‐ phosphate signaling, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling. Literature indicates that the identified pathways are involved in the regulation of the Rho kinase cascade, production of the vasoactive agents nitric oxide, prostacyclin, thromboxane A2, and endothelin 1; the pathways proposed to underlie TD‐ and BB‐induced vasodilatation. These findings may improve our understanding of the BP‐lowering mechanisms of TDs and BBs. This might provide a possible step forward in personalizing antihypertensive therapy by identifying patients expected to have robust BP‐lowering effects from these drugs.
Physiologically based absorption modeling to predict the bioequivalence of two apixaban formulations
Authors: Luo Ting , Wang Lu , Ruan Zourong , Lou Honggang , Yang Dandan , Wang Zhiyang , Zhao Pengfei , Jiang Bo
Published: May 2024

The equivalence of absorption rates and extents between generic drugs and their reference formulations is crucial for ensuring therapeutic comparability. Bioequivalence (BE) studies are widely utilized and play a pivotal role in substantiating the approval and promotional efforts for generic drugs. Virtual BE simulation is a valuable tool for mitigating risks and guiding clinical BE studies, thereby minimizing redundant in vivo BE assessments. Herein, we successfully developed a physiologically based absorption model for virtual BE simulations, which precisely predicts the BE of the apixaban test and reference formulations. The modeling results confirm that the test and reference formulations were bioequivalent under both fasted and fed conditions, consistent with clinical studies. This highlights the efficacy of physiologically based absorption modeling as a powerful tool for formulation screening and can be adopted as a methodological and risk assessment strategy to detect potential clinical BE risks.
Type 1 diabetes and frailty: A scoping review
Authors: Golding Jonathan A. , Yong Esther S. T. , Hope Suzy V. , Wright Juliet E. , Levett Tom J. , Chakera Ali J.
Published: May 2024

Aims

Advances in type 1 diabetes management are enabling more to reach older ages. Frailty is known to complicate type 2 diabetes. However, frailty in people with type 1 diabetes has not been extensively researched. This review summarises the available evidence on frailty in those with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A systematic search strategy was applied to multiple databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane) including grey literature (Scopus, OAIster, OpenGrey, dissertation and thesis database). All evidence types were considered. English articles published after 2001 were eligible. For inclusion, participants must have been over 55 with type 1 diabetes. Frailty must have been clearly defined or assessed. The results were synthesised into a descriptive format to identify key themes.

Results

Of 233 papers subject to full‐text review, 23 were included. Older adult diabetes research frequently does not specify the type of diabetes; 100 articles were excluded for this reason. No articles were found specifically researching frailty in older adults with type 1 diabetes. Fourteen different definitions and nine assessments of frailty were outlined. Generally, the papers supported relaxation of glucose targets and greater adoption of diabetes technology.

Conclusions

This review highlights the paucity of evidence in older adults with type 1 diabetes and frailty. Consensus on standardised definitions and assessments of frailty would aid future research, which is urgently needed as more people with type 1 diabetes reach older ages. Identifying and addressing the key issues in this population is vital to support individuals through the challenges of ageing.
Opposing patterns of carbon and nitrogen stability in soil organic matter fractions compared to whole soil
Authors: Bailey Taleta , Robinson Nicole , Macdonald Ben , McGowan Janine , Weaver Tim , Antille Diogenes L. , Farrell Mark
Published: May 2024

Nitrogen (N) released from soil organic matter (SOM) is quantitatively important for crop uptake, even when adequate fertiliser N is supplied. Understanding of SOM has shifted to recognise distinct fractions that correlate with properties such as turnover time, carbon (C) and N content, and chemical composition. Yet, how these fractions relate to N supply from SOM is poorly understood. This study aimed to link N mobilisation and C stability in coarse (≥50 μm) and fine (≤50 μm) fractions, and evaluate the roles of these fractions in supplying N in cropping soil. Soils from long‐term continuous cotton, cotton‐vetch, and cotton‐wheat rotations and a nearby uncleared site (NV) were separated into coarse and fine fractions, left as whole soil, or dispersed and freeze‐dried as a fractionation control. Initial C chemistry in fractions and whole soils was measured by solid state 13C NMR spectroscopy. N mobilisation and CO2 loss were measured over a 14‐day incubation experiment. In the cropping soils, net immobilisation of N was measured in the separate fractions, while net mobilisation was found in the whole soils. In the NV soil, N mobilisation was greater in the fine fraction. C mineralisation followed the order fine fraction > fractionation control = coarse fraction > whole soil. C stability was best explained by physical protection within whole soil structure rather than chemical recalcitrance or mineral stabilisation. The results revealed an unexpected contrast between C and N mineralisation from SOM fractions and demonstrated the importance of soil aggregates for SOM stability. We show a cautionary impact of fractionation on C and N dynamic, highlighting the need for further research to understand the synergistic behaviour of SOM fractions in whole soils.
Selection of a stress‐based soil compaction test to determine potential impact of machine wheel loads
Authors: Ali Aram , Bennett John McLean , Roberton Stirling , Krwanji Diman , Zhu YingCan , West David
Published: May 2024

The use of heavy machinery is increasing in agricultural industries, and in particular cotton farming systems in Australia, which induces an increased risk of soil compaction and yield reduction. Hence, there is a need for a technical solution to use available tools to measure projected soil compaction due to farm machinery traffic. The aim of this work was to compare the effects of static and dynamic loads on soil compaction. In this study, three Vertisols (soils commonly used for cotton production in Australia) were selected to examine soil compaction under a range of static and dynamic loads, respectively, using uniaxial compression equipment and a modified Proctor test. In general, soils behaved similarly under static and dynamic loads with no significant difference between bulk density values for all moisture contents with a high index of agreement (d = 0.96, RMSE = 0.056). The results further indicate better agreement between soil compaction produced under static and dynamic loads. Uniaxial compression test (static loads) produced greater compaction compared with the modified Proctor test (dynamic loads), in particular at moisture contents less than the plastic limit condition. The variation in soil compaction for static and dynamic loads was often evident for loads ≥600 kPa, with the greatest soil compaction induced under loads ≥1200 kPa. The findings of this study confirm the suitability of a modified Proctor method to assess soil compaction as an alternative tool under a range of moisture contents and machinery loads for Vertisols.
Dielectric and energy storage properties of (Ba0.2Sr0.2Na0.2Ca0.2La0.2)(ZrxTi1‐x)O3 high‐entropy ceramics and thin films
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Yang Qingqing , Meng Bin , Ping Xinyu , Pan Xiaoyu , Fang Congcong
Published: May 2024

A series of (Ba0.2Sr0.2Na0.2Ca0.2La0.2)(ZrxTi1‐x)O3 (BSNCLZxT1‐x) (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2) high‐entropy ceramics were prepared in forms of bulks and thin films by conventional sintering and spin‐coating, respectively. All ceramic bulks and thin films are composed of a single perovskite‐structured solid solution. The introduction of the Zr element reduces the dielectric loss of bulks and thin films and improves the frequency stability of the dielectric constant. The ceramic bulks have a higher dielectric constant and lower loss than their corresponding thin films. As x rises from 0 to 0.2, the breakdown strength Eb of the ceramic bulks increases from 209 to 327 kV/cm, and that of thin films enhances from 890 to 1770 kV/cm. The bulks and thin films of BSNCLZ0.1T0.9 possess the maximum recoverable energy density Wrec (0.82 and 3.48 J/cm3) and energy storage efficiency η (95.8% and 86.8%).
Consumers' intention to use online food delivery services: A meta‐analytic structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Chiu Weisheng , Badu‐Baiden Frank , Cho Heetae
Published: May 2024

Numerous studies have investigated the variables that are associated with individuals' behavioral intention to use online food delivery (OFD) services. However, some studies have shown inconsistent findings in relationships between different variables. This study aims to examine the influential factors leading to consumers' behavioral intention to use OFD services. The meta‐analytic structural equation modeling approach was used to examine the research model, which involved reviewing and analyzing 60 studies with 61 independent samples (N = 25,390). The results revealed that convenience had a significant influence on perceived ease of use but did not directly affect perceived usefulness. Price‐saving orientation significantly influenced consumers' perceptions of ease of use and usefulness. Additionally, significant relationships were found between perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and perceived trust, and these factors ultimately resulted in the usage intention of OFD services. Overall, the findings theoretically contribute to the extant literature on OFD services and can help companies develop better OFD services to ensure continuous usage by consumers.
Prevalence of non‐communicable disease risk factors among nursing staff in a low and middle‐income country: A cross‐sectional digital survey‐based study
Authors: Dhanasekaran Kavitha , Lakshmanan Gopichandran , Perumal Vanamail , Choudhary Mamta , Chalga Manjeet Singh , Hote Payal Kahol , Hariprasad Roopa , Kumar Vipin , Chacko Shiny , Kumaresan Kanagavalli , Swarnkar Neeraj Kumar
Published: May 2024

Aim

To assess the prevalence of non‐communicable disease risk factors among the nursing staff and educate them on prevention.

Background

Nursing staff is integral to the Indian community healthcare systems. Recent studies report a high prevalence of non‐communicable diseases in Indian nursing staff. Therefore, data on the prevalence of non‐communicable disease risk factors among nursing staff are crucial for education on prevention.

Design

A cross‐sectional digital survey‐based study.

Method

We invited 4435 nursing staff to attend our online survey. We used a customized questionnaire for data collection, including a digitized version of the Community‐Based Assessment Checklist form. A score of >4 was considered high risk and warranted screening.

Result

Among 682 nursing staff who attended, 70% had never undergone screening for non‐communicable diseases. The prevalence of non‐communicable disease risk factors was significantly higher in male nursing staff. In addition, logistic regression analysis showed that age, tobacco and alcohol use, increased waist circumference, physical inactivity and family history of non‐communicable diseases were significant risk factors among nursing staff.

Conclusion

The study findings suggest that the nursing staff have suboptimal self‐health concerns on non‐communicable diseases. This situation warrants continued medical education, awareness campaigns on adopting a healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Illness perceptions in relation to self‐management behaviour among elderly patients with COPD: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Guo Zijun , Yang Qiao‐hong , Yang Fan , Ke Caixia , Chen Jing , Li Xinyi , Ling Yinlou , Yang Zhiqi , Xie Yantong , Yan Jun
Published: May 2024

Aims

The purpose of this study was to investigate the status of self‐management behaviour and illness perceptions and to examine illness perceptions in relation to self‐management behaviour in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted, and 152 elderly COPD patients were recruited via the convenience sampling method. The COPD Self‐Management Scale and the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire for COPD patients were used to examine self‐management behaviour and illness perceptions. Pearson correlation analysis, univariate analysis and hierarchical linear regression analysis were used to explore illness perceptions in relation to self‐management behaviour.

Results

The mean overall score for self‐management behaviour was 2.90 ± 0.39. Among the subscales of self‐management behaviour, information management had the lowest score of 2.20 ± 0.76. Patients' demographic and clinical characteristics, including educational level, smoking status, type of primary caregiver, home oxygen therapy and COPD duration, were found to be significant determinants of self‐management behaviour. After controlling for these variables, several illness perception subscales, including treatment control, personal control, coherence, timeline cyclical and identity, were significantly correlated with self‐management behaviour.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that elderly COPD patients' self‐management behaviour was unsatisfactory and that illness perceptions were significant determinants of self‐management behaviour. The findings may contribute to the development of self‐management interventions for elderly COPD patients.
Psychometric evaluation of Suicide Management Competency Scale for nursing students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lu Chueh‐Fen , Beckstead Jason W. , Ye Jia‐You , Yang Chiu Yueh
Published: May 2024

Suicide management skills are essential for nursing students, as they are often the initial healthcare contact for individuals at risk of suicide. Recognising signs of suicidal ideation and behaviour is critical for initiating timely interventions. This study aimed to develop and access the psychometric evaluation of the Suicide Management Competency Scale (SMCS) for nursing students. A first draft of the SMCS was initially developed following literature and focus group, and a scale containing 28 items was constructed. We recruited 216 participants from two nursing schools. Construct validity was evaluated with exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Internal consistency reliability was determined with Cronbach's alpha, and test–retest reliability was examined with intra‐class correlation. After four rounds of EFA and item analysis, we reduced the number of items to 16. We deleted 12 items, including 4 items for communalities less than 0.40, 3 items for cross‐loading, 3 items for factor loading less than 0.40, and 2 items for low corrected item–total correlation. The final 16‐item SMCS resulted in three subscales, which explained 55.813% of the total variance: emotional challenges in suicide risk assessment, delivering suicide interventions, and suicide risk nursing competence and confidence. Cronbach's alpha was 0.854 for the total score and 0.748 to 0.847 for the subscales. The newly developed SMCS was found to have good reliability and validity, suggesting that this scale could be used to evaluate nursing students' perceived competency in managing suicide, which might help cultivate competence in nurses' ability to effectively manage and prevent suicide, thus contributing to saving lives.
The use of proxy measurement of internal states in people with intellectual disability: A scoping review
Authors: Webb Kristen , Cuskelly Monica , Owen Ceridwen
Published: May 2024

Background

The measurement of internal states of people with an intellectual disability is challenging. Given these difficulties, proxy respondents are sometimes used. However, the literature provides some caution about the validity of the use of proxy respondents.

Aims

This review aims to identify the available evidence regarding the use of proxy respondents in the measurement of internal states of people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

The Arksey and O'Malley scoping review framework was used for this review, refined with the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology.

Results

Results indicate there are some differences in the findings reported with respect to the efficacy of the use of proxy respondents. These may be due to a number of inconsistencies and weaknesses in examinations of their utility.

Conclusions

If proxy‐reports are to be useful in understanding the internal states of people with intellectual disability, researchers need to address the shortcomings revealed by this review.
“Theory will take you only so far” (Nolan, 2023): In search of greater insight through quantitative, observation‐based research
Authors: Stank Theodore , Saunders Lance W. , Scott Alex , Autry Chad W. , Esper Terry L.
Published: May 2024

Theories developed for understanding the general management or economic phenomena are increasingly ineffective for explaining logistics/SCM‐specific phenomena, despite the best efforts of LSCM researchers to utilize them for those purposes. Unfortunately, the hierarchies and infrastructure in place to ensure LSCM research is theoretically grounded and conducted with scholarly rigor have not advanced to a point where the use of alternative methods to explore such questions is common. The key objective of this paper is to guide where empirical LSCM research could evolve if it took its relationship with theory a step further. Our thesis is that inductive research using empirical data can yield additional insightful answers to relevant questions. We hope that discussion of these topics from a 2024 perspective can spur more research that uses empirical analysis as a starting point to create new theory in LSCM and, importantly, to persuade members working in our field to respect and accept rigorous empirical research conducted outside the traditional deductive, logical positivist paradigm.
Oral microbiota of patients with phenylketonuria: A nation‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bingöl Memduh , Cardilli Alessio , Bingöl Anne Carolin , Löber Ulrike , Bang Corinna , Franke Andre , Bartzela Theodosia , Beblo Skadi , Mönch Eberhard , Stolz Simone , Schaefer Arne S. , Forslund Sofia Kirke , Richter Gesa M.
Published: May 2024

Aim

The oral microenvironment contributes to microbial composition and immune equilibrium. It is considered to be influenced by dietary habits. Phenylketonuria (PKU) patients, who follow a lifelong low‐protein diet, exhibit higher prevalence of oral diseases such as periodontitis, offering a suitable model to explore the interplay between diet, oral microbiota and oral health.

Materials and Methods

We conducted 16S rDNA sequencing on saliva and subgingival plaque from 109 PKU patients (ages 6–68 years) and 114 age‐matched controls and correlated oral microbial composition and dental health.

Results

PKU patients exhibited worse dental health, reduced oral microbial diversity and a difference in the abundance of specific taxa, especially Actinobacteriota species, compared to controls. PKU patients with poor periodontal health exhibited higher alpha diversity than the orally healthy ones, marked by high abundance of the genus Tannerella. Notably, the observed taxonomic differences in PKU patients with normal indices of decayed/missing/filled teeth, plaque control record, gingival bleeding index and periodontal screening and recording index generally differed from microbial signatures of periodontitis.

Conclusions

PKU patients' reduced microbial diversity may be due to their diet's metabolic challenges disrupting microbial and immune balance, thus increasing oral inflammation. Higher alpha diversity in PKU patients with oral inflammation is likely related to expanded microbial niches.
The role of existing shareholders in private equity placements in China
Authors: Liu Yini , Lu Di , Tian Suhua
Published: May 2024

In this article, we investigate how the participation of firms’ existing shareholders affects the pricing and valuation of private investments in public equity (PIPEs). Using a large sample of PIPEs issued by Chinese listed firms from 2006 to 2019, we find that the effective discount and long‐term buy‐and‐hold abnormal stock returns of PIPEs with existing shareholder participation are significantly higher than those with only new investor participation, after controlling for heterogeneous types of PIPE investors. However, the superior post‐PIPE stock performance of deals with existing shareholders is not driven by improved operating performance but by tunneling activities such as frequent dividend announcements, related‐party transactions, and positive earnings management during the lock‐up period. Our findings suggest that the effect of existing shareholders’ participation in private equity placements is more consistent with the tunneling hypothesis than the certification hypothesis. We document that the tunneling incentives are stronger when firms face greater financial constraints and can be mitigated when the firm's corporate governance is stronger.
Contamination of herbs and spices: A 23‐year EU RASFF notifications analysis
Authors: Eissa Fawzy , Zidan Nour El‐Hoda A. , Sebaei Ahmed Salem
Published: May 2024

From 2000 to 2022, all and serious notifications of the EU Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) on herbs and spices were examined to identify the most notified products, their associated hazards and origin countries, as well as the consequent notification classification and actions taken. The data reveals that 3741 notifications were transmitted for herbs and spices during the last 23 years, accounting for 5.3% of the RASFF total notifications of all product categories (70630). Border rejection and serious risk decisions represented 37.9% and 39.5% of the total herbs and spices notifications, respectively. In the last 5 years, serious notifications ranged from 76.6% to 87.2% of all herbs and spices notifications. India was the most notified origin country (23.6%), followed by Brazil (8.7%), Thailand (7.2%), Turkey (5.8%), and China (4.6%). The top 10 notified herbs and spices were chili, black pepper, curry, paprika, nutmeg, spice mix, basil, mint, ginger, and cumin, while the top 10 hazards were Salmonella, aflatoxin, Sudan 1, Sudan 4, ethylene oxide (EtO), ochratoxin A, chlorpyrifos, Escherichia coli, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and color E 160b. Approximately 96.3% of black pepper, 71% of chili, and almost all nutmeg serious notifications were related to Salmonella, aflatoxins, and mycotoxins, respectively. Strict measures to minimize the risk associated with such contaminants in herbs and spices must be implemented.
When Does a Firm Fail to Walk the Talk? Decoupling in International Expansion
Authors: Xu Kai , Shi Wei , Zhao Jing , Chen Xuanyu
Published: May 2024

Neo‐institutional theory predicts that when adaptations to institutional pressures contradict a firm's efficiency needs, decoupling may arise. This study systematically investigates the drivers of heterogeneous decoupling in the context of international expansion. We propose that specific configurations – awareness of peers’ decoupling, a strong motivation to obtain legitimacy through ceremonial conformity, and a weak capability to couple stated policies with practices – will lead to a high occurrence of decoupling. An empirical analysis of 8918 annual reports of 1974 Chinese‐listed companies from the period 2013–17 suggests that the ‘Go Global’ initiative undertaken by the Chinese government has created high institutional pressure for all Chinese firms to expand globally. However, when the implementation of that move is perceived as too costly or risky for a firm, the firm is likely to choose to decouple its international expansion from its stated commitment to expand under certain configurations of awareness, motivation, and capability conditions. Our theory and empirical findings extend decoupling research and international business research by providing a holistic configurational analysis of firms’ decoupling in an international expansion context.
Analysis of sensory and cognitive performance of generational consumers using artisan tortillas
Authors: Cabal‐Prieto Adán , Herrera‐Corredor José Andrés , Vega‐Carreño María Isabel , Chay‐Canul Alfonso Juventino , Chareo‐Benítez Berenice , Juarez‐Barrientos José Manuel , Hernández‐Salinas Gregorio , Guerrero‐Ortíz Cristal Arany , Armida‐Lozano Jorge , Ramírez‐Rivera Emmanuel de Jesús
Published: May 2024

The objective of this research was to compare the sensory and cognitive performance of generations of consumers using artisanal tortillas. Four groups of generational consumers were evaluated (baby boomers, generation X, Y, and Z; n = 100 consumers per generational group). Three experiments were conducted: (1) use of the intensity scale, (2) determination of dominant attributes via TDS and (3) elicited emotions and memories. The results of the first experiment showed that baby boomers, generation X and Y had the best performance in terms of discrimination and consensus. The second experiment demonstrated that generation Z consumers identified dominant attributes of texture in mouth and the other generations identified corn flavor, nixtamal flavor, and sour taste attributes as dominant. Regarding the evaluation of emotions and memories, it was observed that as generations progress, more emotions, and memories were used. In this sense, generation Z was the one that used the most negative emotions and memories.

Practical Applications

Analyzing the generational effect can help researchers and tortilla manufacturers to the selection of generational consumer for the evaluation of artisanal, cross‐cultural, or industrialized foods.
Melatonin alleviates myocardial dysfunction through inhibition of endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Kim Ran , Kim Minsuk , Jeong Seongtae , Kim Sejin , Moon Hanbyeol , Kim Hojin , Lee Min Young , Kim Jongmin , Kim Hyung‐Sik , Choi Murim , Shin Kunyoo , Song Byeong‐Wook , Chang Woochul
Published: May 2024

Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a complex biological process of cellular transdifferentiation by which endothelial cells (ECs) lose their characteristics and acquire mesenchymal properties, leading to cardiovascular remodeling and complications in the adult cardiovascular diseases environment. Melatonin is involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including aging, and has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This molecule is an effective therapeutic candidate for preventing oxidative stress, regulating endothelial function, and maintaining the EndMT balance to provide cardiovascular protection. Although recent studies have documented improved cardiac function by melatonin, the mechanism of action of melatonin on EndMT remains unclear. The present study investigated the effects of melatonin on induced EndMT by transforming growth factor‐β2/interleukin‐1β in both in vivo and in vitro models. The results revealed that melatonin reduced the migratory ability and reactive oxygen species levels of the cells and ameliorated mitochondrial dysfunction in vitro. Our findings indicate that melatonin prevents endothelial dysfunction and inhibits EndMT by activating related pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B and Smad. We also demonstrated that this molecule plays a crucial role in restoring cardiac function by regulating the EndMT process in the ischemic myocardial condition, both in vessel organoids and myocardial infarction (MI) animal models. In conclusion, melatonin is a promising agent that attenuates EC dysfunction and ameliorates cardiac damage compromising the EndMT process after MI.
Solid as a rock: The main drivers of changes in natural, rocky plant communities
Authors: Reczyńska Kamila , Świerkosz Krzysztof
Published: May 2024

Question

Changes caused by climate warming and nitrogen pollution are observed in forest, grassland and alpine ecosystems worldwide. However, still little is known about the impact of these globally influencing factors on natural rocky plant communities. Has species composition of natural rocky communities changed over time? What is the role of large‐scale and fine‐scale environmental factors in shaping the compositional, functional and habitat patterns in studied plant communities over time?

Location

Sudetes Mountains, southwestern Poland.

Methods

We used 214 pairs of replots (collected between 1989 and 2022) of rocky plant communities, with a mean timespan of 14.2 years. The changes in species composition, environmental conditions and functional traits were analysed using ordination techniques and generalised additive models (GAMs) and with reference to large‐scale factors (mean maximum temperatures, actual evapotranspiration, N deposition) and fine‐scale factors (light availability, bedrock type, initial site conditions) for each locality.

Results

Species composition of the studied communities has not changed significantly over time. Only for 11 out of 258 species, statistically significant increases (from 2% to 8%) in their proportion were recorded. The changes in environmental conditions were significantly influenced mainly by fine‐scale factors such as changes in light availability and baseline site conditions. Plots that were initially less thermophilic or nitrophilic showed stronger signals of thermophilisation and eutrophication in the resurvey. The influence of large‐scale factors was considerably less pronounced. Similarly, the key role in explaining changes in plant traits for the data set under study falls to local factors, particularly changes in light availability.

Conclusions

Our study confirms the validity of considering both large‐ and fine‐scale factors as well as initial site conditions in research on long‐term changes in plant communities. Rocky plant communities respond to global changes in a different way than other types of phytocoenose, showing high stability of species composition and functional traits over time.
Effects of growing season and individual growth rates on the occurrence of larval overwintering in Otton frog tadpoles
Authors: Iwai N.
Published: May 2024

The timing and size of metamorphosis are crucial for the future fitness of organisms with complex life cycles, such as amphibians. In some amphibian species, a portion of tadpoles will metamorphose in their natal year whereas others from the same cohort overwinter as tadpoles. Low temperature and food availability were previously assumed to be the underlying reasons; however, the factors influencing the decision to overwinter as tadpoles or metamorphose in the natal year have not been extensively studied. This study investigated these factors by conducting laboratory‐rearing experiments on Babina subaspera tadpoles. The tadpoles were individually reared under controlled temperature and light conditions that simulated five different growing seasons (i.e., the start month) observed in the field. Four different food quantity levels were set to induce different growth rates, which were measured individually. The results revealed that 33 tadpoles metamorphosed within their natal year, whereas 52 tadpoles were overwintered as tadpoles and metamorphosed the following spring. The size at metamorphosis was larger in tadpoles that metamorphosed after winter than in those that metamorphosed before winter. Whether tadpoles metamorphosed before or after winter was influenced by the individual growth rate and growing season. Tadpoles with slower growth rates were more likely to metamorphose after winter, possibly because slower growth prevented them from reaching the critical size threshold required for metamorphosis before winter. The threshold for the occurrence of larval overwintering varied with the growing season; tadpoles that spawned later in the year were more likely to overwinter, even with a high growth rate. The results suggested that slow‐growing B. subaspera tadpoles with insufficient time until the onset of winter would gain a higher fitness by metamorphosing after winter. This would be advantageous due to the tadpoles' potentially high survival rate during dormancy as well as their larger size at metamorphosis in the following year.
Incipient space weathering on asteroid 162173 Ryugu recorded by pyrrhotite
Authors: Harries Dennis , Matsumoto Toru , Langenhorst Falko , Noguchi Takaaki , Miyake Akira , Igami Yohei , Haruta Mitsutaka , Seto Yusuke , Miyahara Masaaki , Tomioka Naotaka , Saito Hikaru , Hata Satoshi , Takigawa Aki , Nakauchi Yusuke , Tachibana Shogo , Nakamura Tomoki , Matsumoto Megumi , Ishii Hope A. , Bradley John P. , Ohtaki Kenta , Dobrică Elena , Leroux Hugues , Le Guillou Corentin , Jacob Damien , de la Peña Francisco , Laforet Sylvain , Mouloud Bahae‐eddine , Marinova Maya , Beck Pierre , Phan Van T. H. , Rebois Rolando , Abreu Neyda M. , Gray Jennifer , Zega Thomas , Zanetta Pierre‐M. , Thompson Michelle S. , Stroud Rhonda , Burgess Kate , Cymes Brittany A. , Bridges John C. , Hicks Leon , Lee Martin R. , Daly Luke , Bland Phil A. , Zolensky Michael E. , Frank David R. , Martinez James , Tsuchiyama Akira , Yasutake Masahiro , Matsuno Junya , Okumura Shota , Mitsukawa Itaru , Uesugi Kentaro , Uesugi Masayuki , Takeuchi Akihisa , Sun Mingqi , Enju Satomi , Michikami Tatsuhiro , Yurimoto Hisayoshi , Okazaki Ryuji , Yabuta Hikaru , Naraoka Hiroshi , Sakamoto Kanako , Yada Toru , Nishimura Masahiro , Nakato Aiko , Miyazaki Akiko , Yogata Kasumi , Abe Masanao , Okada Tatsuaki , Usui Tomohiro , Yoshikawa Makoto , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Nakazawa Satoru , Watanabe Sei‐ichiro , Tsuda Yuichi
Published: May 2024

Regolith samples returned from asteroid 162173 Ryugu by the Hayabusa2 mission provide direct means to study how space weathering operates on the surfaces of hydrous asteroids. The mechanisms of space weathering, its effects on mineral surfaces, and the characteristic time scales on which alteration occurs are central to understanding the spectroscopic properties and the taxonomy of asteroids in the solar system. Here, we investigate the behavior of the iron monosulfides mineral pyrrhotite (Fe1−xS) at the earliest stages of space weathering. Using electron microscopy methods, we identified a partially exposed pyrrhotite crystal that morphologically shows evidence for mass loss due to exposure to solar wind ion irradiation. We find that crystallographic changes to the pyrrhotite can be related to sulfur loss from its space‐exposed surface and the diffusive redistribution of resulting excess iron into the interior of the crystal. Diffusion profiles allow us to estimate an order of magnitude of the exposure time of a few thousand years consistent with previous estimates of space exposure. During this interval, the adjacent phyllosilicates did not acquire discernable damage, suggesting that they are less susceptible to alteration by ion irradiation than pyrrhotite.
Wear diagnosis for rail profile data using a novel multidimensional scaling clustering method
Authors: Shang D. , Su Shuai , Sun Y. K. , Wang F. , Cao Y. , Yang W. F. , Li P. , Zhou J. H.
Published: May 2024

The diagnosis of railway system faults is significant for its comfort, efficiency, and safety. The rail surface wear is the key impact factor when considering the health conditions of rails. This paper accomplishes contactless rail wear diagnosis by using multidimensional scaling based on a novel informational dissimilarity measure (IDM) to cluster intact and different worn rail profile data. The IDM uses weighted‐probability distribution of dispersion patterns to extract accurate time domain features from rail profile data, and the loss of information is minimized, which can greatly improve the accuracy for wear diagnosis. All the analyzing data for real experiments are collected by a laser scanner camera on an inspection car, where heavy‐haul railway rails with different types of surface wear are inspected. Experimental results with simulated and reality‐based data show that the proposed methods can identify worn profile data and discriminate different types of worn profiles more effectively when compared with existing methods. Thus, the proposed method offers a new thinking for the diagnosis of rail surface wear for heavy‐haul railways.
Visual narrative research: African American cemeteries in Alachua County, Florida
Authors: Ngozi Queenchiku
Published: May 2024

Ella Spencer (my mom) was born in 1908 and died in 2002. She once told me that people of color were treated worse than farm animals, especially when they died. “They didn't get funeral rites like White folks,” she said. I contend the problem is that no one is keeping vital records such as photographs, maps, and burial ledgers of where African Americans were buried. After numerous years, several American states, cities, and counties had reported bountiful discoveries of unknown African American remains of all ages during constructions or demolitions. In 2023, more than a few news outlets were continuously reporting the findings of African American remains from beneath buildings, parking lots, overgrown vegetation, and woods. This qualitative research project was based on digital archival data research methodology and theoretical visual anthropology framework adding creativity components (e.g., photography, painting, and photo bashing technique) to effectively collect data of Alachua County, Florida African American cemeteries. This paper aims to add to the academic literature and fill the gap in African American life after death acknowledgment. In conclusion, this is a project that has many branches that need to be researched to get the whole story of African American cemeteries' survival.
Deciphering the complex interplay of obesity, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and tight junction remodeling: Unraveling potential therapeutic avenues
Authors: AlMarzooqi Sara K. , Almarzooqi Fajr , Sadida Hana Q. , Jerobin Jayakumar , Ahmed Ikhlak , Abou‐Samra Abdul‐Badi , Fakhro Khalid A. , Dhawan Punita , Bhat Ajaz A. , Al‐Shabeeb Akil Ammira S.
Published: May 2024

Obesity stands as a formidable global health challenge, predisposing individuals to a plethora of chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. A confluence of genetic polymorphisms, suboptimal dietary choices, and sedentary lifestyles significantly contribute to the elevated incidence of obesity. This multifaceted health issue profoundly disrupts homeostatic equilibrium at both organismal and cellular levels, with marked alterations in gut permeability as a salient consequence. The intricate mechanisms underlying these alterations have yet to be fully elucidated. Still, evidence suggests that heightened inflammatory cytokine levels and the remodeling of tight junction (TJ) proteins, particularly claudins, play a pivotal role in the manifestation of epithelial barrier dysfunction in obesity. Strategic targeting of proteins implicated in these pathways and metabolites such as short‐chain fatty acids presents a promising intervention for restoring barrier functionality among individuals with obesity. Nonetheless, recognizing the heterogeneity among affected individuals is paramount; personalized medical interventions or dietary regimens tailored to specific genetic backgrounds and allergy profiles may prove indispensable. This comprehensive review delves into the nexus of obesity, tight junction remodeling, and barrier dysfunction, offering a critical appraisal of potential therapeutic interventions.
Quantifying innate immune response of an insect host challenged by non‐replicative immune inducers
Authors: Wang Keran , Han Jiapei , Zhang Qinhao , Yang Dengfeng , Zhang Xiaomeng , He Bei , Yu Guozhi
Published: May 2024

Non‐linear immune response is one of the causes of multi‐stability of infection outcomes. In order to avoid the uncertainty caused by multi‐stability in experiments, one needs to quantitatively measure immune response and other traits as well. Here, we took a quantitative approach, which combines mathematical model and time‐series data, to measure the immune response of the Tenebrio moliter challenged by non‐replicative immune inducers. The results showed that the host immunity that characterized by in‐vitro bacterial killing rapidly mounted after immune challenging, then slowly declined to an undetectable level within 100 h. We then quantified the immunity at 15 h after challenging. The results showed that immune response was non‐linearly correlated with the titter of inducer, which fits well to a Hill‐like function. Our results have verified the non‐linear immune response with respect to amount of invading pathogens and may also help to rigorously test the concepts and theories in host–pathogen interaction, such as resistance and tolerance.