bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economically Scalable Cu‐based MOFs: Vital Role of Structural Integrity towards Selectivity on Azeotropic Ethanol Dehydration
Authors: Inchongkol Yollada , Adpakpang Kanyaporn , Ponchai Panyapat , Atithep Thassanant , Chitterisin Nattamon , Ittisanronnachai Somlak , Butburee Teera , Bureekaew Sareeya
Published: December 2024

A facile, green, and economical method for the scalable synthesis of hydrophilic copper‐triazole metal‐organic frameworks (Cu‐trz) is demonstrated. Numerous open metal sites within the highly crystalline porous structure of Cu‐trz are generated through mild thermal activation, enabling its application in liquid‐phase ethanol dehydration under ambient conditions. The frameworks with distinct crystallinity and particle sizes were achieved by modifying the synthesis process. The high crystallinity of the framework plays an exclusive role in enhancing water adsorption capacity. With selective water adsorption comparable to commercial zeolite 3 A, Cu‐trz MOF emerges as a promising candidate for cost‐effective water‐ethanol separation.
Novel Class of Ambipolar Columnar Liquid Crystals Based on Cyclic Dipeptide and Isatin Hybrids
Authors: Ahmed Rahul , Kumar Behera Paresh , K N Anjana , B Anitha , Patra Alakananda , Kumar Sandeep , Namboothiry Manoj AG , Sudhakar Achalkumar Ammathnadu
Published: December 2024

A new class of cyclic dipeptide‐isatin hybrids was synthesized using 2,5‐diketopiperazine and various isatin derivatives bearing flexible chains and extended aromatic rings in a double Knoevenagel condensation process. These new series demonstrate high solubility and good thermal stability with decomposition temperatures exceeding 370 °C, especially the molecular design with efficient space‐filling (CI5 and CI6) stabilized columnar liquid crystalline phase. The hole and electron carrier mobility of the CI5 compound, measured using the space charge limited current (SCLC) technique, were found to be 9.46×10−4 cm2/V.s and 7.88×10−4 cm2/V.s respectively. The stabilization of columnar self‐assembly and observation of ambipolar charge carrier mobility in cyclic dipeptide‐isatin hybrids make them a promising class of self‐assembling organic semiconductors.
The Trauma‐Related Voices Model: An Integration of Auditory Verbal Hallucinations and Posttraumatic Stress
Authors: Strachan Laura P. , Paulik Georgie , McEvoy Peter M.
Published: December 2024

Many trauma‐affected voice hearers report comorbid posttraumatic stress and voices (auditory verbal hallucinations) that are directly (voices repeat phrases spoken by perpetrators) or indirectly (voice content and trauma are thematically similar) related to their trauma. Models of PTSD and positive symptoms of psychosis are insufficient in explaining the comorbidity between PTSD and voices, and interventions based on these models have limited effectiveness in treating voices. This study presents a model that generates novel research into the factors underlying trauma‐related voices that may inform effective interventions. Maintaining factors from existing models of PTSD and positive symptoms were combined into an integrative model of trauma‐related voices. Theorised relationships between factors were used to identify possible differential pathways to direct and indirect voices. An integrative, trauma‐related voices (TRV) model was developed that identifies multiple causal pathways to trauma‐related voices. A future research agenda is proposed to test novel hypotheses based on the integrative model. The TRV model is a practical tool for complex case conceptualisation and generates novel hypotheses that may inform more effective treatments. Future studies are needed to test elements of the TRV model and should recruit transdiagnostic samples with diverse posttraumatic stress and voice hearing symptoms.
Harmonizing ESG in a local context; integrating social dimension and Kekeluargaan values in the context of Indonesia culture
Authors: Hermawan Marko Sebira , Handoyo Alan Darma Saputra
Published: December 2024

The increasing emphasis on sustainability in the globalized era has made it a crucial focus for the business sector, which is progressively adopting sustainable practices. Sustainability reporting, particularly in the context of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, has become vital for companies to disclose their performance and commitment to sustainability. Drawing on existing literature in ESG and sustainability reporting, the research highlights the gap in current practices that overlook social dimensions embedded in local cultures. Kekeluargaan, a term rooted in Indonesian culture, refers to familialism that emphasizes mutual respect, collective responsibility, and harmony within a community or organization. This value is central to organizational behavior in Indonesia and is crucial for understanding local social dimensions of ESG reporting. The study employs a phenomenological approach, involving document analysis and semi‐structured interviews with key stakeholders to understand how Kekeluargaan values can be harmonized with sustainability reporting. Findings reveal that enhancement of Kekeluargaan into sustainability practices enhances organizational cohesion and social responsibility, improving overall ESG performance. The study recommends that companies incorporate local cultural values into their sustainability frameworks to create more holistic and culturally relevant reporting. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals and strengthens the internal organizational culture, leading to long‐term benefits in both social and corporate governance domains.
Harbour Porpoises Are Flexible Predators Displaying Context‐Dependent Foraging Behaviours
Authors: Stedt Johanna , Hamel Héloïse , Torres Ortiz Sara , Højer Kristensen Jakob , Wahlberg Magnus
Published: December 2024

Opportunistic mobile predators can adapt their behaviour to specific foraging scenarios, allowing them to target diverse prey resources. An interesting example is the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), a marine mammal with a huge energy demand feeding on a large variety of fish, squid and shrimps. Little is known about the foraging behaviour of harbour porpoises, as observations of wild specimens are notoriously difficult to obtain. In this study, foraging was identified in almost 60% of videos from UAV recordings in Danish coastal waters during daylight hours. Observations reveal them to be flexible predators, foraging on both single fish and schools of fish, as well as individually and in groups of varying sizes. We argue that some of the observed behavioural adaptations and context‐dependent strategies for prey capture are based on information transfer and social learning. Our results provide unprecedented insights into the foraging behaviour of an opportunistic mammalian predator. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of porpoises having access to coastal areas for energy acquisition, where they are in conflict with anthropogenic disturbances such as fisheries with the risk of bycatch.
Territorial and Non‐Territorial Subpopulations of Wilson's Warblers Return to Central California Breeding Grounds in Two Migratory Waves
Authors: Gilbert William M.
Published: December 2024

Early migratory return for territorial passerines is important, since earlier return results in better territories, and greater reproductive success. Many passerine studies have found that migratory return dates for first‐breeding‐season (SY) individuals was a week or less later than for older (ASY) birds. Many of both ASY and SY birds in these studies became territorial, although more SY than ASY birds became non‐territorial floaters. In this study of Wilson's Warblers, however, nearly all individuals returning early and becoming territorial were ASY birds, and very few were SY birds. However, second waves of returning Wilson's Warblers, containing both SY and ASY birds, returned about 3–5 weeks after the first migratory waves, and no males in those second waves ever became territorial. No later‐returning, second‐wave female initially ever became territorial either, although some subsequently became replacement mates for earlier‐returning males. Some male Wilson's Warblers were territorial, and others were non‐territorial, during all of their study‐area years. However, some males switched status over successive years, and migratory return when non‐territorial always was several weeks later than when territorial. Findings from this study indicated, for some males during some years, that non‐territoriality was more adaptive than was territoriality. This study's finding, of 3–5 week later migratory return waves for non‐territorial, than for territorial, Wilson's Warblers, supports findings by Stewart (1973), that Wilson's Warblers return to breeding grounds in two migratory waves. Findings from both studies may provide empirical evidence supporting Kokko's (1999) hypothesis that migratory birds, not competing for territories, should return to breeding grounds later, on their “cost‐minimizing dates.”
Drivers of biomass stocks and productivity of tropical secondary forests
Authors: Matsuo Tomonari , Poorter Lourens , van der Sande Masha T. , Mohammed Abdul Salim , Koyiba Dieudonne Wedaga , Opoku Justice , de Wit Bas , Kuzee Tijs , Amissah Lucy
Published: December 2024

Young tropical secondary forests play an important role in the local and global carbon cycles because of their large area and rapid biomass accumulation rates. This study examines how environmental conditions and forest attributes shape biomass compartments and the productivity of young tropical secondary forests. We compared 36 young secondary forest stands that differed in the time since agricultural land abandonment (2.3–3.6 years) from dry and wet regions in Ghana. We quantified biomass stocks in living and dead stems, roots, and soil, and aboveground biomass and litter productivity. We used structural equation models to evaluate how macroclimate, soil nutrients (N, P), and forest attributes (structure, diversity, and functional composition) affect ecosystem functioning. After three years of succession, tropical wet forests stored on average 115 t biomass ha−1 (the sum of aboveground living and dead biomass, belowground fine root biomass, and soil organic matter), and dry forests stored 99 t ha−1. These values represent 31% (in the wet forest) and 39% (in the dry forest) of the biomass compared with neighboring old‐growth forests. The majority of forest ecosystem biomass was stored in the soil (70%) and aboveground living vegetation (25%). Macroclimate strongly shaped forest attributes, which in turn determined biomass stocks and productivity. Soil phosphorus strongly increased litter production and soil organic matter, confirming that it is a limiting element in tropical ecosystems. Tree density and species diversity increased forest biomass stocks, suggesting crown packing and complementary resource use enhance forest functioning. A more conservative trait composition (high wood density) increased biomass stocks but reduced productivity, indicating that quantity, identity, and quality of species affect ecosystem functioning.
eDNA Metabarcoding, a Promising Tool for Monitoring Aquatic Biodiversity in the Estuaries of Reunion Island (South‐West Indian Ocean)
Authors: Jannel Lou‐Anne , Guilhaumon François , Valade Pierre , Chabanet Pascale , Borie Guillaume , Grondin Henri , Jourand Philippe
Published: December 2024

Reunion Island is in the South‐West Indian Ocean (SWIO), where all freshwater fish species are diadromous. The ecological status assessments of freshwater in watersheds have revealed a continuing deterioration in these fish populations due to anthropic pressures. In this context, monitoring the fish's biological sustainability is crucial to ensure the health of these estuarine ecosystems. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of conventional electrofishing monitoring (EF) with the environmental DNA metabarcoding tool to evaluate fish biodiversity in the estuaries. We measured the diversity and structure of the fish community in three estuaries with various geographical, hydrological, and anthropogenic conditions over different seasons. To this end, fish were captured by EF, and we then isolated DNA from the water samples to perform bioinformatic analyses derived from eDNA, using the 12S marker. Statistical analyses were carried out to compare the results of these two methods. For all watersheds combined, a comparison of the results for measuring fish richness showed that eDNA performed significantly better than EF. Indeed, the eDNA detected 31 species, whereas the EF detected only 12 species. For both methods, we observed significant differences in community structure between watersheds, with a significant nestedness phenomenon where the fish assemblage obtained from EF captures is a sub‐assemblage of that obtained from eDNA. Moreover, compared to EF, eDNA enabled the detection of endemic to the Mascarene region species (e.g., Cotylopus acutipinnis), introduced exotic species (e.g., Oreochromis niloticus), and species difficult to capture and identify due to their juvenile life stage through EF (e.g., Anguilla sp.). Our data confirm the effectiveness of eDNA to detect fish species, both taxonomically and in terms of species richness and proves to be an effective tool for monitoring fish diversity of the islands of the SWIO.
Enhancing FAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cell Performance and Stability Through Bespoke Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Park Jin Kyoung , Song Yunmi , Lee Hyong Joon , Kim Kyung Ho , Heo Jin Hyuck , Im Sang Hyuk
Published: December 2024

A novel approach to enhancing the efficiency and long‐term stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is presented through strategic interfacial modification using bespoke graphene quantum dots (GQDs). GQDs with controlled alkylamine chain lengths, such as butylamine (C4), octylamine (C8), and dodecylamine (C12), were customized to have the proper optical and electronic properties toward specific interfaces within the PSCs. The incorporation of C4‐GQDs significantly improved the energy level alignment and conductivity of the SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL), while C12‐GQDs effectively reduced trap density on the perovskite surface, leading to enhanced defect passivation. These modifications resulted in a substantial increase in power conversion efficiency of 24.41% in a unit cell and 18.91% in a mini‐module, respectively. Notably, the maximum power point tracked perovskite mini‐module retained 89% of its initial efficiency during 1000 h of continuous light soaking condition at 25°C under 35% relative humidity. This work highlights the potential of bespoke GQDs to advance both the performance and durability of PSCs, providing a scalable approach for future photovoltaic applications.

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The Mesolithic Hunter–Gatherer Camp Site at Sammakko in Norrbotten, Northernmost Sweden—Archeological Finds and Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction
Authors: Möller Per , Palmbo Frida , Nielsen Anne Birgitte , Boman Emma , Dong Haoran , Björck Svante , Cai Yuanyang , Grimbe Jannica , Macleod Ruairidh , Shen Mingjian , Wang Yucheng , Westerlund Mica , Xue Zhe
Published: December 2024

A small Mesolithic camp site near Sammakko in northernmost Sweden has been identified through its abundance of burnt bone and quartz refuse from stone tool manufacturing/maintenance. Radiocarbon dating places hunter–gatherer activity here around 8900 years ago, 1800 years later than the oldest known settlement in Norrbotten, the Aareavaara site. Sediment stratigraphy in nearby lake basins suggests that the final melting of stagnant ice, trapped in the undulating Veiki‐moraine landscape, occurred around 9200 years ago. Initially, after deglaciation, the area was covered with arctic heath, transitioning to an open birch forest by 9100 years ago. At the time of the Sammakko settlers, it was an open birch forest with elements of pine, and various dwarf shrubs, including dwarf birch, willow, and juniper. Grasses, sedges, and various herbs in the semi‐open grounds were also common. The settlers primarily relied on reindeer, as indicated by burnt bones, with supplementary food sources such as pike and birds. Stalking was likely the main hunting method, possibly aided by dogs. Potential dog gnaw marks on bones suggest early domestication. The site functioned as a temporary hunting station, probably used only during snow‐free months.
A Novel Lysosome‐Related Gene Signature Predicts Lung Cancer Prognosis: A Bioinformatics‐Driven Study
Authors: Ye Wei , Sun Lin , Fu Cong , Dong Huajie , Zhou Tong
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The biological function of lysosomes has been increasingly appreciated in cancer. However, the relationship between lysosome and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) was not well understood. In this study, a lysosome‐related signature was developed for LUAD risk stratification and prognosis prediction.

Methods

Download RNA‐seq data of LUAD and clinical information of corresponding samples from the UCSC‐Xena platform. GSE31210 databases is used as a validation cohort. The lysosome‐related genes was obtained from molecular signature database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) as well as lysosome‐associated prognosis signatures were identified by using univariate, multivariate cox, and Lasso regression. A nomogram was constructed and evaluated using ROC and DCA.

Results

A total of 109 lysosome‐related DEGs were identified and 30 prognostic related DEGs were subsequently screened. Cluster analysis further divides the TCGA cohort into clusters 1 and 2. Patients in cluster 2 had a worse prognosis (p = 0.016), lower LYSOSOME score. Enrichment analysis showed that 21 significantly enriched gene sets in the cluster 2 were activated. And 10 pathways, such as E2F_TARGETS, G2M_CHECKPOINT were upregulated. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified 17 best prognostic genes as risk signature. An independent prognostic factor, the risk signature, was identified. A prognostic nomogram including risk signature, age, TNM stage, and gender was constructed, and ROC and DCA curves proved its excellent performance. We examined CTSZ and AP3S2 protein expression in 48 stage 3–4 NSCLC samples. Low AP3S2 expression was associated with better prognosis (median overall survival: 37.87 vs. 8.53 months, p = 0.0211). Increased CTSZ expression also indicated better prognosis (median overall survival: 6.77 vs. 30.50 months, p = 0.0306).

Conclusion

We identified molecular subtypes and lysosomal‐based prognostic signatures for LUAD patients, as well as 17 genes that serve as a biomarker for evaluating the prognosis of LUAD patients.
Machine Learning Modeling of Anchovy Waste Treatment Using Solar Drying
Authors: Mohammed Najjar , Zakaria Tagnamas , Younes Bahammou , Hamid Bouyghf , Mohammed Nahid
Published: December 2024

This study aims to valorize coproducts from the anchovy processing chain by obtaining compounds of interest through the implementation of environmentally friendly and energy‐efficient techniques. These methods, which also apply to other fresh anchovy waste coproducts, seek to minimize the environmental pollution associated with conventional systems. The investigation focused on the application of solar drying as a treatment of anchovy waste. The resulting data were employed to model the drying behavior of anchovy waste using five machine learning algorithms. A thermokinetic study was conducted under both natural and forced convection solar drying to establish the optimal conditions for drying and storing anchovy heads, which are a significant source of high‐quality proteins for human and animal nutrition. Drying kinetics were examined at three temperatures (60°C, 70°C, and 90°C) and two airflow rates (150 and 300 m3/h). The study identified air drying temperature as the most critical factor affecting the drying kinetics of anchovy wastes. Machine learning modeling of anchovy waste solar drying was conducted, and evaluated models were RNN, LSTM, GRU, LightGBM, and CatBoost. CatBoost demonstrated superior performance in predicting moisture content. It achieved the lowest Mean Squared Error of 1.1491e − 06, the lowest Mean Absolute Error of 0.0006265, and the highest coefficient of determination (R2) of 99.99%. The comparative analysis highlighted distinct differences in the predictive accuracy of the models, with CatBoost emerging as the most effective.
Utilizing an Opportunistic Clinical Study and Population‐Based Pharmacokinetic Models to Identify Rational Empiric Dosing Regimens for Piperacillin–Tazobactam in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Reeder Joshua A. , Creech C. Buddy , Nation Roger L. , Gu Kenan , Nalbant Demet , Wu Nan , Jimenez‐Truque Natalia , Fissell William , Rolsma Stephanie L. , Fishbane Nicholas , Kirkpatrick Carl M. J. , Patel Pratish C. , Watanabe Amy , Landersdorfer Cornelia B. , Winokur Patricia , An Guohua
Published: December 2024

Determining an effective dosing regimen for piperacillin–tazobactam in critically ill patients is challenging due to substantial pharmacokinetic variability caused by complex pathophysiological changes. To address this need, a prospective clinical study was conducted, which enrolled 112 critically ill patients and employed an opportunistic sampling strategy. Population modeling and simulation were performed to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) and probability of target attainment (PTA) of piperacillin–tazobactam under various dosing regimens. Both piperacillin and tazobactam final models were one‐compartment models with zero‐order input and first‐order elimination. Significant covariates included lean body weight for piperacillin and creatinine clearance along with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for both drugs. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrated that continuous infusion can achieve higher PTA than intermittent and extended infusions. When considering the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 16 mg/L for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (a frequently encountered bacterial pathogen among critically ill patients) and a PK/PD target of 100% fT >MIC, continuous infusion of 6 g/day is recommended for critically ill patients with a CLcr <60 mL/min, 9 g/day for patients with CLcr in the range of 60 to 129 mL/min, and 12 g/day for patients with a CLcr ≥130 mL/min. In addition, extended infusion represents a good alternative, especially the 3 g q6h or 4 g q6h regimens which can achieve the designated European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) non‐species‐related PK/PD breakpoint of 8 mg/L. Our study provided valuable insight into PTA outcomes, which, together with individual renal function of future patients and institution‐specific piperacillin susceptibility patterns, may assist physicians when making dosing decisions.
Participatory research in child psychology & psychiatry: Embracing untidiness to break new ground
Authors: MacLeod Andrea , Manitsa Ifigeneia , De Brito Stephane
Published: December 2024

We are pleased to present our Special Issue on Participatory Research. In this editorial, we outline how the disability rights movement has been instrumental to the development of participatory approaches, before giving consideration to some of the debates and criticisms associated with participatory research in practice. We summarise the contributions offered by the studies within this issue and propose four areas of consideration, drawn from the body of included research, to inform future developments.
Use of morselized bone allograft in revision hip arthroplasty for massive acetabular defect: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cimatti Pietro , Del Piccolo Nicolandrea , Dallari Benedetta , Mazzotta Alessandro , Dallari Dante
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Many treatment options are available for the revision of large acetabular defects. Debate continues as to which technique is most effective. This meta‐analysis aimed to determine the rates of failure of acetabular bone defects Paprosky type III or American Academy of Orthopaedic types III–IV treated with morselized allograft in association with cemented cup or cementless cup or reinforcement devices.

Methods

The US National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE), EMBASE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were queried for publications from January 1980 to 1 April 2024 utilizing keywords pertinent to total hip arthroplasty (THA), acetabular impaction bone grafting and revision THA. The main outcome measure was the 9‐year implant failure rate.

Results

Thirty‐nine articles were eligible for inclusion in the current study. We found 41 treatment approaches that we grouped into three different treatment options: 1 = morselized allograft and cemented cup (10 studies); 2 =morselized allograft and cementless cup (nine studies); 3 = morselized allograft and device (22 studies). The overall implant failure rate was 2.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.6%–2.8%) at a mean of 9.2 years. There was no significant difference in failure rates between different treatment options (1.6% [95% CI, 0.9%–2.6%]) for morselized allograft and cemented cup; 2.1% (95% CI, 1.4%–3.2%) for morselized allograft and cementless cup; 2.5% (95% CI, 1.7%–3.7%) for morselized allograft and device) between the three different types of treatment (heterogeneity between groups p = 0.351).

It was determined that the number one cause of failure was aseptic loosening (80.5%), followed by infection (13.1%) and dislocation (6.4%). THA with reinforcement devices has a higher incidence of infection (3.6 vs. 0.7%, p = 0.001) and dislocation (1.4 vs. 0.6%, p = 0.010) than THA with a cemented cup.

Conclusions

The use of morselized allograft in hip revision of large acetabular defects has low implant failure rates, independently of the associated type of implant. Reinforcement devices increase the risk of re‐revision for infection and dislocation.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Applying population‐specific incidence prevalence ratio benchmarks to monitor the Australian HIV epidemic: an epidemiological analysis
Authors: King Jonathan M. , McManus Hamish , Gray Richard T. , Nigro Steven J. , Sisnowski Jana , Dobbins Timothy , Bavinton Benjamin R. , Grulich Andrew E. , Petoumenos Kathy , Costello Jane , McGregor Skye
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Due to a lack of robust population denominators, Australia is unable to accurately monitor changes in the HIV epidemic for some populations. The ratio of HIV transmission relative to the number of people with HIV (an incidence prevalence ratio, or IPR) can measure such changes. The IPR is measured against an IPR benchmark derived from post‐HIV acquisition life expectancy, to indicate whether an HIV epidemic is shrinking or growing. Using IPRs and Australia‐specific IPR benchmarks, this study aims to describe the Australian HIV epidemic among three groups: men with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex, women with HIV and people with HIV attributed to injection drug use.

Methods

Using mathematical modelling derived from HIV notifications, cohort and administrative data, IPRs were generated for each of the three groups. These IPRs were compared with IPR benchmarks derived from post‐HIV acquisition mortality estimates using abridged life tables for men, women and people who inject drugs. The IPR benchmark for men was applied to people with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex. Trends in the IPR over time were described for each reported population from 2015 to 2022.

Results

Overall, the IPR fell by 80%, from 0.040 (range: 0.034−0.045) in 2015 to 0.008 (range: 0.003−0.013) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2020. Among people with HIV attributed to male‐to‐male sex, the IPR fell by 85%, from 0.041 (range: 0.034−0.047) in 2015 to 0.006 (range: 0.003−0.024) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2020. Among women with HIV, the IPR fell by 56%, from 0.032 (range: 0.026−0.039) in 2015 to 0.014 (range: 0.003−0.029) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.022) in 2019. Among people with HIV attributed to injection drug use, the IPR fell by 61%, from 0.036 (range: 0.022−0.047) in 2015 to 0.014 (range: 0.002−0.057) in 2022 and fell below the benchmark (0.028) in 2019.

Conclusions

Australian IPRs in all populations examined have dropped below the level required to sustain the HIV epidemic at current levels. By applying this method in other contexts, the changing scale of HIV epidemics may be better described for populations lacking robust population denominators.
Transforming Trade and Environment: Digital Trade's Impact on Carbon Emissions in the European Union
Authors: Cai Meng
Published: December 2024

The rapid expansion of digital trade is reshaping global economies, offering promising opportunities to mitigate carbon emissions. This study investigates the impact of digital trade on carbon emissions across 27 European Union countries from 2009 to 2023, presenting new insights into the environmental benefits of digital trade. The empirical findings reveal that digital trade significantly reduces emissions by optimizing industrial structure, promoting technological innovation and enhancing human capital. The heterogeneity analysis shows that this reduction effect is more pronounced in Northern, Western and Central Europe, where digital infrastructure and regulatory support may be more robust, and it is also stronger in highly innovative countries compared to less innovative ones. These results underscore the potential of digital trade as a driver of sustainable economic growth, providing valuable insights for policymakers aiming to leverage digitalization to enhance environmental sustainability, align with climate targets and foster a more efficient, low‐carbon economy.
Present Variability and Future Change in Onset and Cessation of the Rainy Season Over Peru
Authors: De la Cruz Gustavo , Huerta Adrian , Espinoza Jhan‐Carlo , Lavado‐Casimiro Waldo
Published: December 2024

Changes in patterns of accumulated rainfall, as well as the rainy season onset, cessation and duration, can impact the availability of water resources and sectors such as agriculture, affecting the livelihoods of the population. The knowledge of these changes is crucial for regions driven by strong precipitation variability such as the Andean countries. Therefore, the aim of this work is to determine the present and future spatio‐temporal patterns of the onset, cessation and duration of the rainy season in Peru. For this purpose, we analysed in a first step the present variability and trends in 11 homogeneous regions using data from 377 ground stations for the period 1981–2019. The results showed significant trends (1981–2019) of earlier onset and increased duration only in the Southern Peruvian Amazon (Madre de Dios River basin). Furthermore, the accumulated rainfall has significant trends of increases in North East Andes, Northern and Southern Amazon. In a second step, we assessed future changes of the rainy season from an ensemble of statistically downscaled CMIP6 climate scenarios. A two‐tailed Student t‐test was used to evaluate the significance of changes. Two future time slices (2031–2060 and 2071–2100) relative to the reference period (1981–2010) were analysed. Future changes of the rainy season showed significant delays in the onset for the Central East Andes, South West Andes and Amazon regions in the period 2071–2100. Likewise, the rainy season duration presents future significant reductions in regions of the central and southern Andes under the SSP2‐4.5 scenario. Moreover, the accumulated precipitation is projected to increase significantly in the Pacific slope and Andes regions, mainly under the SSP5‐8.5 scenario. These findings are particularly important for sectors like agriculture, energy and water resources management.
Dietetic‐led interventions in critically ill adults that influence outcome: A scoping review
Authors: Terblanche Ella , Merriweather Judith , Bharal Mina , Lewis Rhiannon , Wandrag Liesl
Published: December 2024

Background

Critically ill patients face malnutrition risks, making nutrition management challenging. Dietitians play a crucial role in the intensive care unit (ICU) by applying their expertise to address these challenges. This review examines dietitian‐led interventions and their impact on patient outcomes.

Methods

A scoping review of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, EBSCO, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases from January 1995 to July 2023 was conducted. Studies involving dietitian‐led interventions in adult critical care were included. Data extraction followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, focusing on study design, population, and interventions.

Results

Of 751 studies, 39 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were observational, with only three interventional trials. Dietitian‐led interventions included (1) guideline development and implementation, (2) individualized nutrition treatment, and (3) enteral nutrition tube insertion. Outcomes were classified into (1) patient clinical outcomes (ICU stay duration, mechanical ventilation, infections, cost savings, readmissions, mortality, adverse effects, and glycemic control) and (2) nutrition‐related outcomes (nutrition initiation, energy and protein delivery, gastrointestinal tolerance, parenteral nutrition use, and appropriate dietetic referral).

Conclusion

Dietitian‐led interventions improved nutrition outcomes and may have contributed to better clinical outcomes. Future research should prioritize reporting core outcomes, including nutrition status and physical function, to further quantify the effectiveness of dietitians in ICU care and enhance their recognition within the multiprofessional team.
Enabling Strategic Change Toward Resilience: A Systematic Review From a Dynamic Capabilities Perspective
Authors: Joussen Tim P. , Kanbach Dominik K. , Kraus Sascha
Published: December 2024

This study identifies six dynamic capabilities (DCs), which enable corporates' strategic change toward resilience in today's increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) business environment. In this context, pertinent research has proven DCs' conduciveness for corporates to enhance their levels of resilience. Yet, there remain dispersed definitions of such DCs across research fields and a comprehensive synthesis has been missing. The present study addresses this gap through a systematic literature review of 71 articles published in peer‐reviewed journals. It synthesizes six fundamental DCs and their underlying microfoundations fostering resilience, which are mediated by the corporates' idiosyncratic social capital. Our findings thus contribute to the extant literature by providing a synthesis of relevant DCs into an integrated theoretical framework, answering multiple calls in previous research for a better understanding of the corporate resilience‐building process. By doing so, this study paves the way for future research to investigate the effects of DCs on the sustained competitive advantage of corporates in VUCA environments.
Clinical Outcome Assessments for Spasticity: Review, Critique, and Recommendations
Authors: Gal Ota , Baude Marjolaine , Deltombe Thierry , Esquenazi Alberto , Gracies Jean‐Michel , Hoskovcova Martina , Rodriguez‐Blazquez Carmen , Rosales Raymond , Satkunam Lalith , Wissel Jörg , Mestre Tiago , Sánchez‐Ferro Álvaro , Skorvanek Matej , Tosin Michelle Hyczy de Siqueira , Jech Robert ,   the members of the MDS Clinical Outcome Assessments Scientific Evaluation Committee and MDS Spasticity Study group
Published: December 2024

Background

Spasticity is a common feature in patients with disruptions in corticospinal pathways. However, the term is used ambiguously. Here, spasticity is defined as enhanced velocity‐dependent stretch reflexes and placed within the context of deforming spastic paresis encompassing other forms of muscle overactivity.

Objective

This scoping review aims at evaluating the clinimetric quality of clinical outcome assessments (COAs) for spasticity across different pathologies and to make recommendations for their use.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify COAs used to assess spasticity. An international expert panel evaluated the measurement properties in the included COAs. Recommendations were based on the MDS‐COA program methodology based on three criteria: if the COA was (1) applied to patients with spastic paresis, (2) used by others beyond the developers, and (3) determined to be reliable, valid, and sensitive to change in patients with spasticity.

Results

We identified 72 COAs of which 17 clinician‐reported outcomes (ClinROs) and 6 patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) were reviewed. The Tardieu Scale was the only ClinRO recommended for assessing spasticity. One ClinRO—Composite Spasticity Index—and two PROs—Spasticity 0–10 Numeric Rating Scale and 88‐Item Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity Scale—were recommended with caveats. The Ashworth‐derived COAs were excluded after evaluation due to their focus on muscle tone rather than spasticity, as defined in this review.

Conclusions

The Tardieu Scale is recommended for assessing spasticity, and two PROs are recommended with caveats. Consistent terminology about the various types of muscle overactivity is necessary to facilitate their assessment and treatment. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Nurses' Experiences With Mentoring Nursing Students in Nursing Homes Where an Active, Collaborative Learning Model Is Introduced. A Qualitative Study
Authors: Raustøl Anne , Amsrud Kirsten Eika , Skaug Eli‐Anne , Lyberg Anne , Tveit Bodil
Published: December 2024

Aim

To explore the experiences of nurses mentoring nursing students who study in an active collaborative learning model in their first clinical placement in nursing homes.

Background

Clinical nurses play a crucial role in providing a meaningful learning environment when mentoring nursing students. Active collaborative learning models are increasingly being implemented in clinical placements in nursing education and it is important to explore the experiences of mentoring nurses when implementing such models. In our study, a model where one mentor supports a learning cell of two students, again being supported by a team of two persons in joint positions, was explored.

Design

The study had a qualitative design, interviewing mentors in focus groups about their experiences with mentoring nursing students in a new, collaborative model.

Methods

Twenty‐seven mentors were interviewed in six focus groups. The data from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Two main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) navigating to find the mentor role in a new approach and (2) sharing responsibility for student mentoring.

Conclusions

Mentors in active, collaborative learning models can experience a shift from emphasis on developing a close relationship with one student to emphasis on supporting a learning cell of two students in organising their learning. When introducing new models to practice learning it is essential to also provide a supportive structure for the mentors.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Active collaborative learning models have the potential to provide more clinical placements of high quality. Nurses who mentor students need support. A supportive environment being facilitated by academic–practice collaboration provide a community of practice on mentoring for nurses.

Patient or Public Contribution

The result of the research was shared and discussed with stakeholders prior to submitting the article for publication.
The Cover Crop Challenge: An experiential learning activity for teaching students about cover crop mixtures
Authors: Menalled Uriel D. , Djuric Natasha , Smith Richard G. , Baas Dean G. , Basche Andrea , Haramoto Erin R. , Park Dara , Renner Karen A. , Tully Katherine L. , Wortman Sam E. , Ryan Matthew R.
Published: December 2024

Cover crop mixtures are popular among farmers because they can provide a broader range of ecosystem services than monocultures. However, designing effective cover crop mixtures is difficult because differences in competitiveness among species can cause uneven growth within mixtures, reducing benefits from the suppressed species. The Cover Crop Challenge is an experiential learning activity where students explore and evaluate cover crop mixtures. It was implemented in a multi‐university course composed of six universities across the Eastern and Midwestern United States in 2022 and 2023. A survey of students from the multi‐university course revealed that 97% of respondents (n = 78) thought the Cover Crop Challenge was a valuable activity. Students reported that the activity enhanced their understanding of ecological, agronomic, and economic principles related to cover cropping and that they appreciated the opportunity to collect their own data in a hands‐on environment. Additionally, there were positive correlations between student value in the Cover Crop Challenge and their perceived accomplishment of course‐wide learning objectives related to cover cropping. Consequently, the Cover Crop Challenge addresses common barriers farmers face when using cover crops, providing students with valuable insights beyond the classroom.
Enhancing impact resistance of fiber‐reinforced polymer composites through bio‐inspired helicoidal structures: A review
Authors: Xu Yaxing , Feng Dianshi
Published: December 2024

One of the primary limitations of fiber‐reinforced polymer composites, particularly carbon fiber, is their low impact resistance. Helicoidal structures, inspired by natural biological materials, are created by rotating each layer at a small angle through the thickness, forming a staircase pattern. These structures have been used as microstructure models to improve impact resistance in composite laminates. This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in the impact resistance of bio‐inspired helicoidal laminates (BIHL). The review begins with an introduction to typical microstructural characteristics of helicoidal architectures, including single‐ and double‐twisted Bouligand structures. The impact damage mechanisms specific to BIHL are then elucidated, particular emphasis is placed on key parameters that affect impact performance, including different forms of helicoidal structures, constituent materials and impact factors. Furthermore, a critical discussion is conducted to highlight the advantages and limitations of manufacturing processes tailored for high‐volume production of BIHL. Finally, after identifying research gaps in the current literature, future directions for BIHL in design, fabrication and application are presented. This review may serve as a practical guide for engineers and researchers interested in developing polymer composite laminates that are highly resistant to impact loads.

Highlights

Helicoidal structures significantly enhance the impact resistance of composites.

The damage pattern and mechanisms of BIHL are identified and summarized.

Key parameters influencing the impact behavior of BIHL are discussed in detailed.

The advantages and limitations of manufacturing processes for BIHL are examined

Contemporary challenges and future research directions for BIHL are outlined.
Evaluation of electrolyzed water to control fungal trunk pathogens in grapevine nurseries
Authors: Berbegal Mónica , Blasco Adolfo , Gaume Grégoire , Amorós Pedro , Fernandes Antônia , Ros‐Lis José V. , Armengol Josep
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Grapevine producers demand solutions to control fungal trunk pathogens (FTPs) in nurseries. Adopting integrated strategies combining several control methods has been indicated as the best approach to prevent or reduce infections on grapevine propagation material. In recent years, electrolyzed water (EW) has emerged as a sustainable alternative for disinfection. Thus, the objectives of our study were: (i) to determine the effect of EW on the conidial germination and mycelial growth of a wider selection of FTPs associated with different grapevine trunk diseases; and (ii) to evaluate the efficacy of EW to reduce infections caused by FTPs on grapevine planting material during the propagation process in a commercial nursery.

RESULTS

In vitro experiments demonstrated the capacity of different EW products to reduce conidial germination and mycelium survival of selected FTPs belonging to different genera and species, even given that the results were variable depending on the type of product, pathogen evaluated and time of treatment. In two different nursery experiments, conducted in 2021 and 2023, EW‐treated plants showed lower incidence of Petri and black‐foot associated pathogens when compared with the untreated ones, although these differences were statistically significant only in 2023. Moreover, there were no negative effects of the EW treatments regarding the viability of the grafted plants.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results about the effect of EW against conidia germination and mycelium survival of FTPs, and the results of the nursery trials, suggest that EW could have promising applications in the grapevine nursery process. This treatment could be integrated with other complementary management strategies and also be extended to nurseries of other fruit and nut crops, in which FTPs are currently becoming important emerging diseases. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Tracheobronchial amyloidosis following COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Angammana Chathurangi , Gamlath Sameera , Karunathilake Ravini , Silva Shehan
Published: December 2024

Deposition of amyloid proteins in extracellular space can occur due to uncontrolled inflammatory processes. Tracheobronchial amyloidosis (TBA) is a rare form of such disease. A 68‐year‐old woman was evaluated for chronic cough following a COVID‐19 infection. Although post‐viral sequelae were suspected, further investigation revealed TBA. This condition involves amyloid deposits within the airways. The temporal association with COVID‐19 raises a potential etiological link, suggesting viral‐induced inflammatory or immune‐mediated processes may play a role. This case underlines the need to consider rare etiologies like TBA in patients with unresolved respiratory symptoms post‐COVID‐19.