bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growing burden of gamma‐hydroxybutyrate intoxication on emergency department resource utilisation
Authors: Berling Ingrid , Isoardi Katherine , Harris Keith , Downes Michael A , Lovett Caitlyn , Isbister Geoffrey K
Published: July 2024

Objective

Recreational gamma‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is rising in Australia. We aimed to describe ED presentation patterns related to GHB over time and the impact this has on ED resource use.

Methods

Retrospective review of prospective data collection from two clinical toxicology units based in Queensland and New South Wales.

Results

There were 751 GHB‐related presentations to the two units (Newcastle, 127; Princess Alexandria, 624), with marked increases in presentations occurring in 2019 and 2023. The major intervention was intubation, with 95 (13%) patients intubated.

Conclusion

GHB presentations to ED are rising and the impact on acute bed space and clinical resources is significant.
Valorization of process wastes from soft‐wheat processing industry through biofuel production
Authors: Kapusız Demet , Şahin Nazlı , Sayaslan Abdulvahit
Published: July 2024

A substantial amount of process waste is generated during the manufacture of soft‐wheat products (SWPs), such as biscuits/cookies, crackers, wafers, and cakes. A small portion of waste is reused in specific biscuits, whereas the rest is usually discarded. This study aimed to investigate the suitability of this waste for the co‐production of bioethanol and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs or biodiesel). Two groups of waste generated in the SWP industry were included in the study: (a) the waste of low‐moisture (<10%) biscuits, crackers, and wafer sheets with no fillings and/or coatings, and (b) the waste of high‐moisture (>10%) biscuits, crackers, wafers, and cakes with fillings and/or coatings. The study involved extracting each sample with hexane, and the recovered fat was converted to the FAME through alkali‐catalyzed transesterification. The remaining carbohydrate‐rich fraction was then converted to bioethanol through amylolytic hydrolysis and yeast fermentation. A great portion (92.42%–93.17%) of the fat was extracted from the wastes and converted to the FAME with adequate yields (13.81–14.55 g FAME/g waste, dm) and acceptable conversion efficiencies (85.19%–89.04%). However, bioethanol production from the defatted carbohydrate‐rich fractions proceeded rather slowly, yielding only 16.54–18.02 (g ethanol per g of waste, dm), corresponding to fermentation efficiencies ranging from 43.32% to 48.29%. Upon the co‐production of FAME and ethanol, a considerable amount (50.93%–53.08%) of waste solids remained in the residue fraction. These findings indicated that production of the FAME with adequate yields and conversion efficiencies is viable from the SWP industry wastes; however, bioethanol yields and fermentation efficiencies are rather limited, which warrants further investigation.

Practical Application

The soft‐wheat processing industry generates 1%–5% of total production as waste. The waste was studied to produce FAME and bioethanol. The fat was extracted from the waste and converted to FAME. Bioethanol yields and fermentation efficiencies are limited due to dough modifiers and antimicrobial additives used in SWP production. Further research is required to improve ethanol yield.
Contraceptive efficacy: Determining the threshold for effective suppression based on sperm concentration, motility, and morphology
Authors: Wang Christina , Barratt Christopher L. R. , Blithe Diana L.
Published: July 2024

Introdction

Human spermatogenesis is a complex process that transforms spermatogonial stem cells through mitosis and meiosis to spermatozoa. Testosterone is the key regulator of the terminal stages of meiosis, adherence of spermatids to Sertoli cells, and spermiation. Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) may be required for early spermatogenesis and is important for maintaining normal spermatogenesis in men. Hormonal contraception suppresses FSH, luteinizing hormone, and intratesticular testosterone concentration, resulting in marked suppression of sperm output.

Results

Clinical trials using testosterone alone or testosterone plus progestin demonstrate that sustained suppression of sperm concentration to ≤1 million/mL is sufficient to prevent pregnancy in the female partner. New agents that target spermatogenesis could use this as a target for contraceptive efficacy while others that block sperm function or transport may require a lower threshold. When sperm concentrations are suppressed to such low levels, measurement of sperm motility and morphology is technically difficult and unnecessary. With current data from fertile and infertile men, it is not possible to establish a lower limit of sperm motility or percent normal morphology that equates to the prevention of conception. New compounds that decrease sperm motility or alter sperm morphology may need to demonstrate a complete absence of sperm motility or altered morphology in all spermatozoa in the ejaculate. Sperm function tests may be useful depending on the mechanism of action of each new compound.

Conclusion

Monitoring of sperm surrogate markers to ensure effective contraception relies on laboratories experienced in semen analyses. The development of at‐home tests to assess sperm parameters has progressed rapidly. Some tests have been assessed in clinical trials and approved by regulatory agencies for at‐home use for fertility assessment. However, caution must be exercised in using these tests as many have not been rigorously validated against semen parameters measured in laboratories by trained technologists using standardized tests defined in the World Health Organization Semen Manual.
The economic effect of discrimination: Evidence from the restaurant sector
Authors: Yi Guanting
Published: July 2024

Discrimination often leads to economic consequences for affected groups. This study examines the economic impact of consumer discrimination on Chinese restaurants in the U.S. during the COVID‐19 pandemic's onset. Using cell phone data and revenue records, it identifies a significant −10% relative decline in visits to Chinese restaurants by April 2020, resulting in a $35 million loss. The study finds supply‐side factors, such as restaurant closures and online business transitions, had limited impact, highlighting demand‐side factors like county‐level political affiliation, racial diversity, and Asian population ratios as significant contributors.
Learning from Neighbors and Differentiating Export Quality
Authors: Liu Qiming , Qiu Bin , Edwards Huw , Gao Bo
Published: July 2024

This paper explores how learning from neighboring firms affects new exporters' product quality. It builds a Bayesian learning model to study how new exporters revise their prior beliefs about foreign customers' preferences for product quality from neighboring pioneering exporters. The model shows that a new exporter improves its product quality when it receives a positive quality‐preference signal from its neighbors. The learning process of a firm depends on the number of neighbors, the level and heterogeneity of their export quality, and its own prior knowledge of the market. Highly disaggregated firm–product–country level transaction data provide robust evidence for this. The results also suggest that the impact of neighboring signals on a new exporter's quality can be channeled through the importation of high‐quality intermediate inputs and more fixed investment. Learning effects are heterogeneous across firms and learning can influence other aspects of export performance.
Can a Teacher Salary Increase Promote Students' Educational Performance?
Authors: Liu Tianyang , Su Baozhong , Wang Jingjing , Rozelle Scott
Published: July 2024

Policymakers in China have attempted to improve the quality of rural education by investing in teacher salaries through initiatives like the Rural Teachers Support Plan (RTSP). This study estimates the effects of teacher salary increase on students' educational outcomes in rural China by utilizing the exogenous variations of rural teacher salaries induced by the RTSP. It employs an intensity‐based difference‐in‐differences strategy and panel data from 2010 to 2018 with 3,351 rural children. The findings reveal that an increase in teacher salaries had a significant positive impact on students' examination results. Moreover, the results of mechanism analysis indicate that salary increases could have both quality and quantity effects on students' outcomes by increasing the proportion of highly educated teachers and reducing the student–teacher ratio. Our findings contribute to the discussion on the importance of teacher salary incentives in education production functions and provide insights for other countries undertaking rural education reforms.
Does Information Exchange Affect Cross‐border Tax Avoidance? Evidence from the Common Reporting Standard
Authors: Wang Muhan , Zhang Kezhong , Gao Sihan
Published: July 2024

Using panel data from 2012 to 2020 for publicly traded Chinese companies, we explored the efficacy in mitigation of tax information asymmetry to combat profit shifting and transnational tax avoidance. Our empirical analysis revealed that, after the implementation of the inaugural multilateral automatic information exchange system known as the Common Reporting Standard, there was a statistically significantly increase in the effective tax rate by 1.4 percentage points, accompanied by an increase in instances of tax compliance. These trends were discernibly associated with a reduction in profit shifting and notable changes in reported profit margins, particularly influenced by actions related to debt shifting and strategic management of intellectual property assets. These findings underscore the strong connection between these effects and various factors such as investment destinations, asset portfolios, and industry classifications. The results imply a prospective decline in the incidence of cross‐border tax avoidance by Chinese multinational entities and demonstrate the potential of emerging international tax cooperation frameworks for curbing the global tax avoidance practices of multinational corporations.
Assessment of the effects of citric acid and EDTA on cell viability of cultured human periodontal ligament cells attached to simulated avulsed permanent tooth using a spectrofluorometer–An in vitro study
Authors: Doiphode Avani Ramesh , Kalaskar Ritesh Rambharos
Published: July 2024

Background/Aim

The delayed re‐implantation of avulsed teeth results in ankylosis, followed by replacement resorption and eventual loss of the tooth within 2–4 years. To prevent tooth loss, the root surface can be etched with acid to expose the collagen fibers present in the cementum layer. This process facilitates normal reattachment and regeneration of the periodontal ligament. This in‐vitro study aimed to assess the viability and number of attached cultured Human Periodontal Ligament Cells (HPLC) on the dehydrated root surface of simulated avulsed teeth treated with citric acid and EDTA solutions.

Materials and Methods

Sound human permanent teeth were included in the study. The root portions of the teeth were sectioned into slices, air‐dried for 1 h, and divided into the following three groups: Group A–control; Group B–Citric acid treated for 30 min; Group C–EDTA treated for 5 min. The slices were then placed in cultured HPLC. After a 24‐h incubation period, the slices were visualized under the microscope and prepared for reading the viable and dead HPLC using a spectrofluorometer, as well as for counting HPLC in a Neubauer Chamber.

Results

The spectrofluorometer intensity for viable and dead HPLC showed a statistically significant difference (p = .003 and p = .002), with the mean intensity for viable HPLC greater in citric acid group (69.52 ± 74.51), followed by EDTA group (31.39 ± 9.12), and control group (−130.93 ± 30.99). The dead HPLC intensity was greater in the EDTA group (19.43 ± 47.31), followed by the citric acid group (1.28 ± 1.85), and the control group (−2.77 ± 0.76). The total number of cells in the Neubauer chamber showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001), with a higher count in the citric acid group (10.83 ± 4.08) followed by EDTA group (2.92 ± 2.92).

Conclusion

The application of citric acid for 30 min on the dehydrated root surface of avulsed teeth demonstrated superior outcomes compared to both EDTA treatment for 5 min and the control group.
Changes in spinal curve during dentistry studies measured with a Spinal Mouse device: A five‐year prospective study
Authors: Kapitán Martin , Jouklová Nela , Machač Stanislav , Hodačová Lenka , Čermáková Eva , Schmidt Jan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) often arise and develop during dentistry studies. The most affected regions are related to the spine. Possible associations between spinal curve parameters and MSDs have not yet been investigated amongst dentistry students. This longitudinal observational study aimed to determine whether spinal curve changes during dentistry studies, analyse the relationship between objective findings and subjectively declared MSDs and compare spinal curve parameters with those published in the literature.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐three dentistry students answered a questionnaire on MSDs, and were examined using the Spinal Mouse® device at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end of their 5‐year study.

Results

The spinal curve exhibited a gender diversity in the lumbar lordosis angle, sacrum inclination, and thoracolumbar ratio. From the first to fifth study year, we observed an increase in the range of motions in the sagittal and frontal planes, an increase in the maximal extent of right lateral inclination, and a decrease in maximal left lateral inclination. Whole‐spine backward inclination increased only in women, and forward sacral inclination decreased. No statistically significant relationships were found between the objective findings and subjectively declared MSDs.

Conclusions

The spinal curve shape differed between men and women and changed during dentistry studies. No objective markers or predictors of MSDs were found amongst the dentistry students. These findings can serve as a benchmark for further studies on the association between MSDs and objective findings.
Optimizing hybrid deep learning models for drug‐target interaction prediction: A comparative analysis of evolutionary algorithms
Authors: Sharma Moolchand , Bhatia Aryan , Akhil  , Dutta Ashit Kumar , Alsubai Shtwai
Published: July 2024

In the realm of Drug‐Target Interaction (DTI) prediction, this research investigates and contrasts the efficacy of diverse evolutionary algorithms in fine‐tuning a sophisticated hybrid deep learning model. Recognizing the critical role of DTI in drug discovery and repositioning, we tackle the challenges of binary classification by reframing the problem as a regression task. Our focus lies on the Convolution Self‐Attention Network with Attention‐based bidirectional Long Short‐Term Memory Network (CSAN‐BiLSTM‐Att), a hybrid model combining convolutional neural network (CNN) blocks, self‐attention mechanisms, and bidirectional LSTM layers. To optimize this complex model, we employ Differential Evolution (DE), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Memetic Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm (MPSOA), Fire Hawk Optimization (FHO), and Artificial Hummingbird Algorithm (AHA). Through thorough comparative analysis, we evaluate the performance of these evolutionary algorithms in enhancing the CSAN‐BiLSTM‐Att model's effectiveness. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of each algorithm, our study aims to provide valuable insights into DTI prediction, identifying the most effective evolutionary algorithm for hyperparameter tuning in advanced deep learning models. Notably, Fire‐hawk optimization (FHO) emerges as particularly promising, achieving the highest Concordance Index (C‐index) as 0.974 for KIBA datasets and 0.894 for DAVIS datasets and demonstrating exceptional accuracy in ranking continuous predictions across both the datasets.
TMaD: Three‐tier malware detection using multi‐view feature for secure convergence ICT environments
Authors: Jeon Jueun , Jeong Byeonghui , Baek Seungyeon , Jeong Young‐Sik
Published: July 2024

As digital transformation accelerates, data generated in a convergence information and communication technology (ICT) environment must be secured. This data includes confidential information such as personal and financial information, so attackers spread malware in convergence ICT environments to steal this information. To protect convergence ICT environments from diverse cyber threats, deep learning models have been utilized for malware detection. However, accurately detecting rapidly generated variants and obfuscated malware is challenging. This study proposes a three‐tier malware detection (TMaD) scheme that utilizes a cloud‐fog‐edge collaborative architecture to analyse multi‐view features of executable files and detect malware. TMaD performs signature‐based malware detection at the edge device tier, then sends executables detected as unknown or benign to the fog tier. The fog tier conducts static analysis on non‐obfuscated executables and those transferred from the previous tier to detect variant malware. Subsequently, TMaD sends executables detected as benign in the fog tier to the cloud tier, where dynamic analysis is performed on obfuscated executables and those detected as benign to identify obfuscated malware. An evaluation of TMaD's detection performance resulted in an accuracy of 94.78%, a recall of 0.9794, a precision of 0.9535, and an f1‐score of 0.9663. This performance demonstrates that TMaD, by analysing executables across several tiers and minimizing false negatives, exhibits superior detection performance compared to existing malware detection models.
A scoping review: Group‐based parenting programs for racially and ethnically diverse parents of preschoolers
Authors: Christensen Elizabeth J. , Mogbojuri Oluwatobi , Nathans Laura L. , Hoover Michelle , Rhodes Daniel , Walsh Bridget A. , Medaille Ann
Published: July 2024

Objective

We reviewed current research on group‐based parenting programs for racially and ethnically minoritized parents with preschoolers to provide a synthesis of how these programs are implemented.

Background

Group‐based parenting programs are an efficient and cost‐effective means of providing education and support to multiple parents simultaneously (Olofsson et al., 2016), yet most have been developed for White families (Schilling et al., 2021). No previous research has presented a synthesis of work exploring the range of parenting programs and characteristics for racially and ethnically minoritized families with preschool‐aged children.

Method

We conducted a scoping review guided by the foundations of family life education (FFLE) model (Darling et al., 2020) and using recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute, Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) framework, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews guidelines. The final synthesis included 15 peer‐reviewed empirical studies.

Results

Results highlight commonalities among programs, alignment with the FFLE model, and needs for future research with more diverse populations and specific child age groups.

Conclusion

Group‐based parenting programs for racially and ethnically diverse families with preschoolers are effective but limited in number and scope.

Implications

To ensure that parenting programs are effective and tailored to the diverse needs of individuals and their communities, it is important to consider cultural and contextual factors, make necessary adaptations to practices, content, and delivery methods, and involve racially and ethnically minoritized parents in developing, implementing, and evaluating these programs. There should be an expansion of parenting programs offered at public schools.
The U.S. Dollar and variance risk premia imbalances
Authors: Kjær Mads Markvart , Posselt Anders Merrild
Published: July 2024

We present a novel predictor for the Dollar factor: variance risk premia imbalances (VPI), defined as the difference in variance risk premium between the U.S. and non‐U.S. countries. We argue that VPI theoretically proxies the average volatility differential between the U.S. and non‐U.S. stochastic discount factors. VPI significantly predicts monthly U.S. dollar movements, explains roughly 10% of next‐month Dollar factor variation, and generates significant economic value for investors. We rationalize our findings in a simple consumption‐based asset pricing model.
Micro‐ and nano‐plastic loads in fish and macroinvertebrates in a tropical river
Authors: Ng Yong Sin , Selvam Sivathass Bannir , Ting Kang Nee , Chen Hui Ling , Muthoosamy Kasturi , Gibbins Christopher
Published: July 2024

This study examines microplastic contamination in river macroinvertebrates and fish within a rapidly urbanising tropical catchment, and provides data on the quantity of microplastics ingested by various taxonomic and functional feeding groups.

We employed both a widely used low‐resolution visual inspection method, capable of identifying microplastics ranging from 0.1 to 5 mm, and a novel automated method specifically designed to identify smaller plastics in the nano size range, from 0.004 to 0.1 mm.

Analysis using the low‐resolution method indicated that a significant portion of fish (95%) and macroinvertebrates (44%) contained larger microplastics. The composition of microplastic within the animals differed from that in river water and on the river bed: microplastics in the water and on the bed were predominantly fibres (98% and 92% respectively), whereas the animals exhibited a more even mix of fibres (c. 35%), fragments (c. 43%), and film (c. 22%).

Microplastic loads in aquatic organisms correlated with feeding group and body size, although patterns were not always consistent. Larger individuals generally contained more microplastic, especially among macroinvertebrates, but this trend was not observed uniformly among fish species. Additionally, differences in body loads among macroinvertebrate taxa and feeding groups varied depending on whether loads were expressed per individual or per unit weight.

Use of the high‐resolution enumeration method revealed a substantially higher microplastic count compared to the low‐resolution method, highlighting the potential underestimation of contamination levels by the latter. The study underscores the non‐random uptake of microplastics by aquatic biota, influenced by feeding mode, and stresses the necessity of high‐resolution sample processing for accurate quantification of contamination levels and risk assessment for smaller organisms.
Water addition but not reduction alters plant biomass–diversity relationship
Authors: Yu Yan , Peñuelas Josep , Sardans Jordi , Pei Jiu‐ying , Li Ge , Liu Guo‐lin , Ye Jian‐Sheng
Published: July 2024

The relationship between plant aboveground biomass and diversity typically follows a unimodal pattern, showing a positive correlation in resource‐poor habitats and a negative correlation in resource‐rich environments. Precipitation is a crucial resource for both plant biomass and diversity in terrestrial ecosystems. However, the impact of precipitation changes on the relationship between plant biomass and diversity remains unclear. We conduct a water addition field experiment in a semiarid grassland and identify a unimodal relationship between plant biomass and species richness under ambient conditions. Water addition delays the declining phase of this unimodal curve and shift it upward compared to ambient conditions. Our meta‐analysis of water addition experiments conducted across major biomes worldwide (grassland, shrubland, desert, and forest) supports this finding, while water reduction does not alter the biomass–diversity relationship. Water addition increases biomass in all climate but only increases species richness in arid and semiarid climate. Similarly, water reduction decreases biomass in all climate but only reduces species richness in arid and semiarid climate. Species richness in dry subhumid and humid climate does not change significantly. Furthermore, our field experiment shows that water addition increases plant diversity while decreasing soil inorganic nitrogen levels. The increase in one resource, such as water, leads to the scarcity of another, such as nutrient, thus postponing the declining phase of the plant biomass–diversity relationship typically observed in resource‐rich habitats. Our research contributes to predicting the plant biomass–diversity relationship under changing precipitation conditions and highlights the complex interplay between water availability, nutrient level, and plant diversity.
Uncertainties in greenhouse gas emission factors: A comprehensive analysis of switchgrass‐based biofuel production
Authors: Kim Seungdo , Dale Bruce E. , Basso Bruno
Published: July 2024

This study investigates uncertainties in greenhouse gas (GHG) emission factors related to switchgrass‐based biofuel production in Michigan. Using three life cycle assessment (LCA) databases—US lifecycle inventory (USLCI) database, GREET, and Ecoinvent—each with multiple versions, we recalculated the global warming intensity (GWI) and GHG mitigation potential in a static calculation. Employing Monte Carlo simulations along with local and global sensitivity analyses, we assess uncertainties and pinpoint key parameters influencing GWI. The convergence of results across our previous study, static calculations, and Monte Carlo simulations enhances the credibility of estimated GWI values. Static calculations, validated by Monte Carlo simulations, offer reasonable central tendencies, providing a robust foundation for policy considerations. However, the wider range observed in Monte Carlo simulations underscores the importance of potential variations and uncertainties in real‐world applications. Sensitivity analyses identify biofuel yield, GHG emissions of electricity, and soil organic carbon (SOC) change as pivotal parameters influencing GWI. Decreasing uncertainties in GWI may be achieved by making greater efforts to acquire more precise data on these parameters. Our study emphasizes the significance of considering diverse GHG factors and databases in GWI assessments and stresses the need for accurate electricity fuel mixes, crucial information for refining GWI assessments and informing strategies for sustainable biofuel production.
UNEQUAL PEACE
Authors: Kamranzadeh Ali , Zheng Charles Z.
Published: July 2024

A mediator proposes a settlement between two contestants to avoid a conflict where the cost each contestant bears is inversely related to the contestant's privately known strength. Their strength levels are identically distributed, and their welfares weigh equally in the mediator's objective. However, the optimal proposal offers one contestant much more than it does the other so that the former accepts it always, whereas the latter only occasionally. This unequal treatment improves the prospect of peace by making one contestant willing to settle without fearing that the action signals his weakness that his opponent can exploit should conflict occur.
Antecedents to premium fruit and vegetable consumption: The new theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Mainardes Emerson Wagner , Marcarini Bruno Correa
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to identify the elements that favour the consumption of horticultural foods in the premium category. For this purpose, we elaborated a structural model, based on the updated version of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and with the inclusion of the constructs healthy habit and functional congruence. We conducted a survey with 288 consumers of fruits and vegetables. The results show that the purchase intention of consumers of premium fruits and vegetables tends to be positively influenced by attitude, subjective norms, healthy habits and the functional congruence of consumers, and such congruence also impacts the attitude. Purchase intention tends to positively impact purchase behaviour. Perceived behavioural control (PBC) tends to boost the influence of attitude on intention and decrease the strength that subjective norms exert on this same purchase intention. We conclude that consumers’ attitudes, the opinions of their social core, PBC, their healthy habits, and functional congruence can impact consumers’ intention to buy produce in the premium category and, consequently, their purchasing behaviour. This study contributes to the theory with its findings regarding the role of healthy habits and functional congruence in the updated TPB model applied to the premium fruit and vegetable market.
Measuring the relationship between reciprocity behaviour and technology readiness of nursing staff working in residential care and community nursing: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Coffetti Elvira , Paans Wolter , Krijnen Wim P. , Roodbol Petrie F. , Finnema Evelyn J. , Zuidersma Jelly
Published: July 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to measure how collaborative factors are associated with the technology readiness of nursing staff working in residential care and community nursing. The Reciprocity Instrument and Technology Readiness Index 2.0 were applied to measure this association.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted between October 2020 and January 2021.

Methods

The Technology Readiness Index 2.0 was translated into Dutch, administered together with the Reciprocity Instrument and linguistically validated. And 1660 Registered Nurses and Nursing Assistants received an invitation to the online survey. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to analyse the data.

Results

A total of 475 nursing staff responded, a response rate of 28.6%. The following factors have a statistically significant association with technology readiness: age, education level, years of working experience, type of organization, reciprocity behaviour and conditions of reciprocity behaviour: digital communication usage to reach one another, multilayeredness and future perspective.

Conclusion

This study shows that reciprocity behaviour is positively associated with technology readiness. The influencing factor reciprocity remains intact after the correction of the other factors that were measured. This confirms the relevance of collaborative factors that influence the technology adoption process of nursing staff working in residential care and community nursing.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This study offers insights into how collaboration based on reciprocity behaviour positively impacts the technology readiness of nursing staff engaged in residential care and community nursing and could be used in the education of nursing staff and healthcare teams.

Impact

Being aware of the impact that collaborative factors have on the adoption process of ICT among nursing staff could be used to support the desired preparatory activities as part of ICT implementation for healthcare managers, innovators, and nursing work groups charged with implementing technology in the healthcare process.

Reporting Method

The study has adhered to STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Precision of Public Information Disclosures, Banks' Stability, and Welfare
Authors: MORENO DIEGO , TAKALO TUOMAS
Published: July 2024

Consider a bank which chooses an asset portfolio and then, upon the public disclosure of the results of a review of its quality, raises funds by offering a repayment promise. We show that increasing the precision of information about the quality of the bank's assets lowers the cost of funding of a sound bank and encourages it to take risk. Maximum stability is reached in an opaque environment. Maximum surplus is reached in an opaque (transparent) environment when the social costs of bank failure are large (small). We examine how these conclusions change under alternative information and contractual conditions.
Kelp dissolved organic carbon release is seasonal and annually enhanced during senescence
Authors: Carlson Andrew Kalani , Yoshimura Takeshi , Kudo Isao
Published: July 2024

Macroalgae influence local and global biogeochemical cycles through their production of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Yet, data remain scarce and annualized estimates are typically based on high growth periods without considering seasonal variability. Although the mechanisms of active exudation and passive leakage need clarifying, ecophysiological stress is known to enhance DOC release. Therefore, DOC leakage from seasonally senescent macroalgae may be overlooked. This study focuses on the annual kelpSaccharina japonicavar.religiosa(class Phaeophyceae) from Oshoro Bay, Hokkaido, Japan. Three years (2020–2022) of seasonal data were collected and analyzed, with least squares mean DOC release rates established for kelp (n = 88) across 16 incubation experiments (t ≥ 4 d, DOC samples ≥1 · d−1) under different photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) treatments (200, 400, 1200, or 1500 μmol photons · m−2· s−1). Differences in PAR, dry weight biomass (g DW), sea surface temperature, or salinity could not explain DOC release‐rate variability, which was high between individual kelp. Instead, there were significant intra‐annual differences, with mean DOC release rates (mg C · g−1DW · d−1 ± standard error betweennkelp) higher during the autumn “late decay” period (0.71 ± 0.10,n = 27) compared to the winter “early growth” period (0.14 ± 0.025,n = 10) and summer “early decay” period (0.25 ± 0.050,n = 24). This relationship between seasonal senescence and macroalgal DOC release is further evidence that long‐term, place‐based studies of DOC dynamics are essential and that global extrapolations are premature.
Detecting asset price bubbles using deep learning
Authors: Biagini Francesca , Gonon Lukas , Mazzon Andrea , Meyer‐Brandis Thilo
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we employ deep learning techniques to detect financial asset bubbles by using observed call option prices. The proposed algorithm is widely applicable and model‐independent. We test the accuracy of our methodology in numerical experiments within a wide range of models and apply it to market data of tech stocks in order to assess if asset price bubbles are present. Under a given condition on the pricing of call options under asset price bubbles, we are able to provide a theoretical foundation of our approach for positive and continuous stochastic asset price processes. When such a condition is not satisfied, we focus on local volatility models. To this purpose, we give a new necessary and sufficient condition for a process with time‐dependent local volatility function to be a strict local martingale.
Impactor identification with spallogenic Cr isotopes: The Wabar impact craters (Saudi Arabia)
Authors: Anand Aryavart , Mezger Klaus , Hofmann Beda
Published: July 2024

Precise measurements of Cr isotopic composition of terrestrial impactites have successfully provided evidence for the presence of extraterrestrial material and have, in some cases, allowed the identification of the type of impactor responsible for the formation of the impact structure. The high Cr abundance in most meteorite groups aids in detecting extraterrestrial contamination while their distinct isotopic compositions can help with the identification of the nature of the projectile. However, this common approach of detection and identification of extraterrestrial contamination using mass‐independent 53Cr and 54Cr variations fails when the impactor type is an iron meteorite because of their low Cr abundances (which are in a similar range to terrestrial rocks). The present study demonstrates the viability of a spallogenic Cr contribution in iron meteorites (resulting from their long cosmic ray exposure times), which compensates for their low Cr abundances and facilitates the identification of iron‐meteoritic contamination in terrestrial impactites. Thus, it broadens the scope of impactors (and impactites) that can be investigated using mass‐independent Cr isotopes from solely chondrites and primitive achondrites to include iron meteorites. The Wabar impact craters are an optimal candidate for this study, characterized by low weathering, diverse impactites, partial meteorite survival, substantial impactor material contamination, and a felsic target lithology with low background Cr concentration. The Cr isotopic composition of the Wabar background sand, which represents the target lithology, is indistinguishable from the terrestrial Cr isotopic composition range, whereas the Wabar iron meteorites show coupled spallogenic excesses in ε53Cr and ε54Cr. The Cr isotopic compositions of Wabar impactites show resolved deviations from the terrestrial Cr isotopic composition, thereby indicating the presence of Wabar meteoritic contamination. Moreover, the study demonstrates that even an impactor with a non‐carbonaceous chondritic origin, such as a IIIAB iron meteorite, can have a carbonaceous chondrite‐like signature in ε54Cr anomalies due to spallogenic Cr contamination. The study advocates for a comprehensive investigation combining platinum group elements and Cr (and/or Ni, Ru) isotopes to accurately characterize impactor types.
Accelerated mitochondrial evolution and asymmetric fitness of hybrids contribute to the persistence of Helix thessalica in the Helix pomatia range
Authors: Korábek Ondřej , Hausdorf Bernhard
Published: July 2024

Interbreeding and introgression between recently diverged species is common. However, the processes that prevent these species from merging where they co‐occur are not well understood. We studied the mechanisms that allowed an isolated group of populations of the snail Helix thessalica to persist within the range of the related Helix pomatia despite high gene flow. Using genomic cline analysis, we found that the nuclear gene flow between the two taxa across the mosaic hybrid zone was not different from that expected under neutral admixture, but that the exchange of mtDNA was asymmetric. Tests showed that there is relaxed selection in the mitochondrial genome of H. thessalica and that the substitution rate is elevated compared to that of H. pomatia. A lack of hybrids that combine the mtDNA of H. thessalica with a mainly (>46%) H. pomatia genomic background indicates that the nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial proteins of H. pomatia are not well adapted to the more rapidly evolving proteins and RNAs encoded by the mitochondrion of H. thessalica. The presumed reduction of fitness of hybrids with the fast‐evolving mtDNA of H. thessalica and a high H. pomatia ancestry, similar to ‘Darwin's Corollary to Haldane's rule’, resulted in a relative loss of H. pomatia nuclear ancestry compared to H. thessalica ancestry in the hybrid zone. This probably prevents the H. thessalica populations from merging quickly with the surrounding H. pomatia populations and supports the hypothesis that incompatibilities between rapidly evolving mitochondrial genes and nuclear genes contribute to speciation.
Competition for nutrient niches within the apple blossom microbiota antagonizes the initiation of fire blight infection
Authors: Lee Seung Yeup , Roh Eunjung , Kim Sang Guen , Kong Hyun Gi
Published: July 2024

Changes in the plant microbiota composition are intimately associated with the health of the plant, but factors controlling the microbial community in flowers are poorly understood. In this study, we used apple flowers and fire blight as a model system to investigate the effects of floral microbiota and microbial competition on disease development and suppression.

To compare changes in microbial flora with the RNA expression patterns of plants, the flower samples were collected in three different flowering stages (Bud, Popcorn, and Full‐bloom). Using advanced sequencing technology, we analyzed the data and conducted both in vitro and in vivo experiments to validate our findings.

Our results show that the Erwinia amylovora use arabinogalactan, which is secreted on the flowers, for early colonization of apple flowers. Pantoea agglomerans was more competitive for arabinogalactan than E. amylovora. Additionally, P. agglomerans suppressed the expression of virulence factors of E. amylovora by using arabinose, which is a major component of arabinogalactan, which induces virulence gene expression.

The present data provide new insights into developing control strategies for diverse plant diseases, including fire blight, by highlighting the importance of nutrients in disease development or suppression.
Using three‐dimensional geometric morphometry for facial analysis in patients with the oculo‐auriculo‐vertebral spectrum
Authors: Poláčková Petra , Borovec Jiří , Vašáková Jana , Patzelt Matěj , Urbanová Wanda , Mihulová Michaela , Macek Milan , Havlovicová Markéta , Moslerová Veronika
Published: July 2024

Aim

To utilize three‐dimensional (3D) geometric morphometry for visualization of the level of facial asymmetry in patients with the oculo‐auriculo‐vertebral spectrum (OAVS).

Materials and Methods

Three‐dimensional facial scans of 25 Czech patients with OAVS were processed. The patients were divided into subgroups according to Pruzansky classification. For 13 of them, second 3D facial scans were obtained. The 3D facial scans were processed using geometric morphometry. Soft tissue facial asymmetry in the sagittal plane and its changes in two time spots were visualized using colour‐coded maps with a thermometre‐like scale.

Results

Individual facial asymmetry was visualized in all patients as well as the mean facial asymmetry for every Pruzansky subgroup. The mean colour‐coded maps of type I and type IIA subgroups showed no differences in facial asymmetry, more pronounced asymmetry in the middle and the lower facial third was found between type IIA and type IIB (maximum 1.5 mm) and between type IIB and type III (maximum 2 mm). The degree of intensity facial asymmetry in affected middle and lower facial thirds did not change distinctly during the two time spots in all subgroups.

Conclusions

The 3D geometric morphometry in OAVS patients could be a useful tool for objective facial asymmetry assessment in patients with OAVS. The calculated colour‐coded maps are illustrative and useful for clinical evaluation.
Inquiry for the mistaken and confused
Authors: Falbo Arianna
Published: July 2024

Various philosophers have recently defended norms of inquiry which forbid inquiry into questions which lack true answers. I argue that these norms are overly restrictive, and that they fail to capture an important relationship between inquiry and our position as non‐ideal epistemic agents. I defend a more flexible and forgiving norm: Epistemic Improvement. According to this norm, inquiry into a question is permissible only if it's not rational for one to be sure that by inquiring one won't improve epistemically upon the question. This norm illuminates the significant role that inquiry plays in our lives, given our epistemic nonideality, and it also motivates a robust understanding of the value of inquiry, as encompassing epistemic improvements which go beyond figuring out the answers to questions.
Region‐specific gene expression profile in the epididymis of high‐ and low‐fertile dromedary camels
Authors: Rashad Dina E. M. , Ibrahim Sally , El‐Sokary Mohamed M. M. , Mahmoud Karima Gh. M. , Kandiel Mohamed M. M. , Abou El‐Roos Mahmoud E. A. , Sosa Gamal A. M.
Published: July 2024

The scenario of the fertile spermatozoa with high fertilizing capability is basically dependent on gene expression‐based epididymal function. The current investigation aimed to declare the varied expression of different candidate genes (PLA2G4D, LCN15, CLUAP1, SPP1, AQP12B, DEFB110 and ESR1) relevant to spermatozoa features between the different epididymal segments in the mature dromedary camels (n = 30). Scrotal contents were collected post‐slaughtering, during the breeding season and the epididymis was separated from the testicles and divided into three segments (caput, corpus and cauda) based on its morphology and anatomical characteristics. Epididymal spermatozoa were harvested from each epididymal portion and evaluated for motility, count, viability and morphology. Samples were grouped depending on their epididymal sperm cells features into high‐fertile (n = 15) and low‐fertile (n = 15) groups. The gene expression of the candidate genes was defined in the isolated RNA from each epididymal portion tissue. The segmental sperm motion and count were significantly (p < .05 and p < .01) higher in the three epididymal parts of high‐fertile camels than the lower ones. There were some candidate genes markedly up‐regulated in its expression in epididymal head of high‐fertile camels (PLA2G4D and LCN15) and low fertile (CLUAP1), while others in the body region of the high‐fertile group (SPP1, AQP12B and DEFB110). Nevertheless, ER1 did not differ in the expression among the epididymal segments. In conclusion, the variant expression patterns of these epididymal genes in relation to the regional spermatozoa features might suggest important roles of these genes in sperm maturation process in the epididymis and focusing more interest on their potential utility as markers for male camel fertility prediction.
Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and transonychial water loss (TOWL) measurements in healthy nail apparatus
Authors: Szymoniak‐Lipska Marta , Dańczak‐Pazdrowska Aleksandra , Lipski Adam , Korecka Katarzyna , Żaba Ryszard , Polańska Adriana
Published: July 2024

Background

Although non‐invasive diagnostic methods are widely used to examine the nail apparatus (NA), studies in healthy ones are scarce, and analyzes were often conducted in small groups. In the literature, there are only a few reports on TOWL measurements. The results of TEWL studies in the proximal nailfold have not been published so far.

Materials and Methods

Based on a detailed interview and physical examination, 81 volunteers (40 women and 41 men) aged from 22 to 65 years were qualified for the study. In this study, the overall examination of the NA in relation to water loss was performed for the first time, regarding the hand (d, dominant; n, non‐dominant) and finger types (number, start of count from thumbs) as well as sex and age.

Results

The average TEWL value in the entire group ranged from 7.53 c.u. in the finger nd4 to 11.09 c.u. in nd1. Both in the dominant and non‐dominant hand, in the entire analyzed group, and taking into account gender, weak statistically significant relationships were observed between the finger type value and TEWL (p < 0.05).The TEWL values were lower moving away from the thumb, The average TOWL value in the entire group ranged from 5.01 c.u. in d1 to 7.34 c.u. in d5. Both in the dominant and non‐dominant hand, in the entire analyzed group and considering gender, statistically significant relationships were observed between the type of finger and TOWL values (p < 0.05). The TOWL values were higher moving away from the thumb. Subsequently, the values of TOWL and TEWL did not depend on type of hand (dominant or non‐dominant), sex and age. Weak and moderate statistically significant correlations were found between TEWL and TOWL values in the entire study group and in females, as well as in selected fingers in males (d2, nd2, d3, nd3, d5, nd5) (p < 0.05, r < 0.27).

Conclusion

Non‐invasive diagnostics such TEWL and TOWL measurements are useful to assess differences in structure and function between types of fingers. However, obtained results demand further studies.