bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate and Environment Risks and Opportunities in the Banking Industry: The Role of Risk Management
Authors: Cucinelli Doriana , Nieri Laura , Piserà Stefano
Published: November 2024

Banks are called to address risks and opportunities posed by climate change to their business model. A clear understanding of this ‘new’ type of risks is necessary to adequately incorporate them in the bank strategic decision process and to translate them in specific investment and lending policies and targets. In this paper, focusing on a sample of 102 European listed banks during the period 2008–2021, we provide fresh empirical evidence of the crucial role of the risk management function in increasing bank's awareness of risks and opportunities associated with climate change and fostering the implementation of a sound environmental strategy. We confirm this relationship in a quasi‐natural experiment setting built around the adoption of the 2015 Paris Agreement. We also provide evidence of the relevance of environmental‐oriented governance mechanisms in fostering the adoption of a climate and environmental strategy and in strengthening the role of the risk management. Taken together, these results fill a gap in the academic literature and advance the knowledge of the conditions that allow for the achievement of green goals by the banking system, thus providing clear management and policy implications.
Exogenous choline chloride improves heat and drought stress tolerance of creeping bentgrass
Authors: Zhang Xunzhong , Goatley Mike , Wang Kehua , Goddard Ben , Harvey Rose
Published: November 2024

Choline is a primary precursor of glycine betaine, which is an important osmoprotectant. Choline may improve plant tolerance to abiotic stress, but little study was reported on the effects of choline on drought and heat tolerance in cool‐season turfgrass species. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of choline chloride on drought and heat tolerance associated with antioxidant metabolism and root viability in creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.). The four treatments, including control, choline chloride at 38, 76, and 152 mg m−2, were applied biweekly to the foliage, and treated grass was subjected to heat and drought stress conditions in a growth chamber for 56 days. The choline chloride applications at 76 and 152 mg m−2 improved turf quality ratings by 11.9% and 16.9%, respectively; photochemical efficiency by 8.9% and 7.8%, respectively; and chlorophyll content by 28.4% and 29.7%, respectively, when compared to the control at the end of the trial. The choline chloride treatments at 76 mL m−2 and 152 mg m−2 enhanced antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase activity when compared to the control as measured at the end of the trial. Choline chloride treatments at 76 and 152 mL m−2 also enhanced leaf proline content and root biomass relative to the control. The choline chloride applications at 76 mL m−2 and 152 mg m−2 improved root viability by 124.6% and 93.0% relative to the control. Data suggest that exogenous choline chloride may improve drought and heat tolerance by enhancing leaf antioxidant enzyme activity, root growth and viability, and protecting photosynthetic function. The results of this study suggest that foliar application of choline chloride at 76 and 152 mg m−2 may improve creeping bentgrass performance during the summer months in the US transition zone and other regions with similar climate.
Geopolitical risks and agricultural trade diversification in Southern Africa: Port‐level evidence from the Russia‐Ukraine war
Authors: Lim Sunghun , Oh Saera
Published: November 2024

With the spread of global agricultural value chains, international geopolitical risks often unintentionally trigger food insecurity in bystander countries. This study explores the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on wheat supplies in South Africa and their trade diversification. Using port‐level trade data, we show that South Africa, the main distribution route for South African wheat supplies, rapidly diversified its imports to mitigate geopolitical risk in the aftermath of the war. This sudden import diversification prevented the war‐induced decline on average wheat imports, yet it led to an increase in the volatility of annual imports. More importantly, the import diversification contributed to more secure wheat supplies for southern African landlocked countries that were heavily reliant on border imports from South Africa. Our study highlights that sourcing diversification in a country with well‐developed port infrastructure could be instrumental in stave off food insecurity in neighboring countries in times of geopolitical crises.
An In Vivo Assessment of Different Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Tissue Types and Their Differentiation State on a Shape Memory Polymer Scaffold for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Guda Teja , Stukel Shah Jessica M. , Lundquist Bridney D. , Macaitis Joseph M. , Pérez Mística Lozano , Pfau‐Cloud Michaela R. , Beltran Felipe O. , Schmitt Connie W. , Corbin Emily M. , Grunlan Melissa A. , Lien Wen , Wang Heuy‐Ching , Burdette Alexander J.
Published: November 2024

A combined biomaterial and cell‐based solution to heal critical size bone defects in the craniomaxillofacial area is a promising alternative therapeutic option to improve upon autografting, the current gold standard. A shape memory polymer (SMP) scaffold, composed of biodegradable poly(ε‐caprolactone) and coated with bioactive polydopamine, was evaluated with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) derived from adipose (ADSC), bone marrow (BMSC), or umbilical cord (UCSC) tissue in their undifferentiated state or pre‐differentiated toward osteoblasts for bone healing in a rat calvarial defect model. Pre‐differentiating ADSCs and UCSCs resulted in higher new bone volume fraction (15.69% ± 1.64%) compared to empty (i.e., untreated) defects and scaffold‐only (i.e., unseeded) groups (4.41% ± 1.11%). Notably, only differentiated UCSCs exhibited a significant increase in new bone volume, surpassing both undifferentiated UCSCs and unseeded scaffolds. Further, differentiated ADSCs and UCSCs had significantly higher trabecular numbers than their undifferentiated counterparts, unseeded scaffolds, and untreated defects. Although the mineral density regenerated within the unseeded scaffold surpassed that achieved with cell seeding, the connectivity of this bone was diminished, as the regenerated tissue confined itself to the spherical morphology of the scaffold pores. The SMP scaffold alone, with undifferentiated BMSCs, with undifferentiated and differentiated ADSCs, and differentiated UCSCs (29.72 ± 1.49 N) demonstrated significant osseointegration compared to empty defects (14.34 ± 2.21 N) after 12 weeks of healing when assessed by mechanical push‐out testing. Based on these results and tissue availability to obtain the cells, pre‐differentiated ADSCs and UCSCs emerge as particularly promising candidates when paired with the SMP scaffold for repairing critical size bone defects in the craniofacial skeleton.
Interferon Induced Upregulation of Tripartite Motif 34 (TRIM34) Leads Apoptotic Cell Death in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chaudhari Kaushalkumar , Vasu Vihas T. , Golani Aparna , Shaikh Afridi , Nagariya Nidhi , Roy Hetal
Published: November 2024

Despite breakthroughs in our understanding of lung cancer risk, development, immunologic control, and therapy choices, it remains one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. This study aimed to investigate the role of TRIM34 upon treatment of Interferon Gamma (IFN‐γ) in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). NCI‐H23 cells were exposed to IFN‐γ in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner to understand TRIM34 expression and its role as a co‐regulator of treatment. The regulatory role of TRIM34 on IFN‐γ exposure was studied by qRT‐PCR, Western blot analysis, immunocytochemistry, apoptosis assay and scratch assay. On exposure to IFN‐γ, TRIM34 expression at transcript and protein level was significantly upregulated. With its upregulation, NCI‐H23 underwent apoptosis and its rate of proliferation was impeded. Our results suggest that induction of TRIM34 by IFN‐γ treatment may lead to an anti‐tumor inflammatory response, resulting in NSCLC regression via apoptosis.
Osteoclast Secretes Stage‐Specific Key Molecules for Modulating Osteoclast–Osteoblast Communication
Authors: Fu Yi‐fei , Shi Shu‐wen , Wu Jun‐jie , Yuan Zheng‐dong , Wang Lei‐sheng , Nie Hao , Zhang Zheng‐yu , Wu Xian , Chen Yue‐chun , Ti Hui‐bo , Zhang Ke‐yue , Mao Dong , Ye Jun‐xing , Li Xia , Yuan Feng‐lai
Published: November 2024

In most cases of bone metabolic disorders, such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia, these conditions are often attributed to dysfunctional osteoclasts, leading to their common characterization as “destructors.” In addition to the widely documented regulatory process where osteoblasts direct osteoclastic bone resorption, there is increasing evidence suggesting that osteoclasts also in turn influence osteoblastic bone formation through direct and indirect mechanisms. It is well‐known that differentiation of osteoclasts involves several stages, each characterized by specific cellular features and functions. Stage‐specific key molecules secreted during these stages play a critical role in mediating osteoclast–osteoblast communication. In this review, we described the different stages of osteoclast differentiation and reviewed stage‐specific key molecules involved in osteoclasts‐osteoblasts communication. We highlighted that a detailed understanding of these processes and molecular mechanism could facilitate the development of novel treatments for bone metabolic disorders.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Safety and Immunogenicity of Pharmacokinetic Similarity Studies and Comparative Clinical Studies
Authors: Ji Ping , Schrieber Sarah J. , Glaser Rachel , Chen Jianmeng , Shukla Chinmay , Doddapaneni Suresh , Chandrahas Sahajwalla
Published: November 2024

A biosimilar clinical development program generally includes a pharmacokinetic similarity study and a comparative clinical study. Since both types of studies assess safety and immunogenicity, it is important to evaluate the role of each in determining whether there are any meaningful differences between the proposed biosimilar products and the reference products. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the safety and immunogenicity data from pharmacokinetic similarity studies and comparative clinical studies, using a database of approved monoclonal antibody and fusion protein biosimilars. Our analysis showed that pharmacokinetic similarity studies provided valuable information for comparing the immunogenicity and safety of the monoclonal antibody and fusion protein biosimilars with their respective reference products. This work underscores the evolving understanding of these biologics and offers insights into the clinical development of biosimilars.
Impact of switching to a dolutegravir‐based regimen on body weight changes: insights from West African adult HIV cohorts
Authors: Tiendrebeogo Thierry , Malateste Karen , Poda Armel , Minga Albert , Lahiri Cecile D. , Ezechi Oliver , Ekouevi Didier K. , Ofotokun Igho , Jaquet Antoine ,   the IeDEA West Africa Collaboration
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Adverse metabolic effects related to dolutegravir (DTG) are increasingly reported as countries are adopting DTG‐based regimens as first‐line antiretroviral therapy (ART), but there is limited data from sub‐Saharan Africa. We explored changes in body weight pre‐ and post‐switch to a DTG‐based regimen and assessed the association between DTG switch and significant weight gain (SWG) defined as a ≥10% increase over a 12‐month period in people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART in West Africa.

Methods

We first included all PLHIV followed in the IeDEA West Africa cohorts between January 2017 and June 2021, with a documented switch to DTG during 2019–2021 and in care ≥36 months at the day of switch. Weight change was estimated using a two slope piecewise linear mixed model with change point at the switch date. Secondly, we emulated a sequence of target trials (ETT) based on the observational data, performing pooled logistic regression analysis to compare SWG occurrence between PLHIV who switched to DTG and those who did not.

Results

We first included 6705 PLHIV from Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire and Nigeria. Their median age at the time of switch was 48 years (IQR: 42–54) with a median follow‐up of 9 years (IQR: 6–12), 63% were female. Most patients switched from efavirenz (EFV)‐based ART (56.6%) and nevirapine (NVP)‐based ART (30.9%). The overall post‐switch annual average weight gain (AAWG) was significantly elevated at 3.07 kg/year [95% CI: 2.33–3.80] compared to the pre‐switch AWG which stood at 0.62 kg/year [95% CI: 0.36–0.88]. The post‐switch AWG was greater in patients previously on EFV and protease inhibitor (PI)‐based ART compared to those on NVP‐based ART. The pooled logistic regression analyses of a sequence of 24 ETT, including 9598 person‐trials, switching to DTG was significantly associated with an SWG (aOR = 2.54; 95% CI = 2.18–2.97).

Conclusions

In West Africa, a 12‐month DTG exposure was associated with substantial weight gain, especially in PLHIV previously on EFV and PI‐based ARTs. Continuous weight monitoring and metabolic profiling is imperative in HIV cohorts to delineate the long‐term cardiometabolic impact of DTG as patients with, or at elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases might benefit from alternative ART regimens.
Reversible white matter changes following a 4‐week high phenylalanine exposure in adults with phenylketonuria
Authors: Muri Raphaela , Reed Murray Bruce , Maissen‐Abgottspon Stephanie , Kreis Roland , Hochuli Michel , Lanzenberger Rupert , Trepp Roman , Everts Regula
Published: November 2024

Alterations in brain structure are frequently observed in adults with early‐treated phenylketonuria (PKU) compared to healthy controls, with cerebral white matter (WM) being particularly affected. The extent to which temporary elevation of phenylalanine (Phe) levels impacts WM remains unclear. We conducted a double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled crossover trial to investigate the effects of a 4‐week high Phe exposure on cerebral WM and its relationship to cognitive performance and metabolic parameters in adults with PKU. In this study, 27 adults with early‐treated classical PKU (aged 19–48 years) underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) before and after the 4‐week Phe and placebo interventions. Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) were analysed using tract‐based spatial statistics. Neuropsychological examinations at each timepoint evaluated executive functions and attention. Additionally, brain Phe levels were measured using MR spectroscopy, and blood levels of Phe, tyrosine, and tryptophan were assessed after an overnight fast. Following the Phe period, significant decreases in AD, MD, and RD were observed compared to the placebo period, particularly in the posterior corona radiata and optic radiation. Notably, these WM changes were reversible in patients who first received Phe (n = 13). Cognitive performance and metabolic parameters were not significantly related to DTI scalars after the Phe period. In conlcusion, a 4‐week Phe elevation induced reversible microstructural alterations in cerebral WM. Further investigation is necessary to determine the clinical implication of these changes.
Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Death in Leishmania donovani Induced by Selected Steroidal Alkaloids
Authors: Menpadi Naveena , Chandra Pranjal , Dubey Vikash Kumar
Published: November 2024

We have earlier reported novel anti‐leishmanial molecules, veratramine and hupehenine, targeting dephospho‐coenzyme A kinase of the parasite. In our current investigation, we assessed the efficacy of these two steroidal alkaloids, veratramine and hupehenine, in combating the parasite. Contrary to expectations, our study did not detect the typical signs of apoptosis such as mitochondrial membrane potential loss and phosphatidylserine externalization. Instead, we observed a notable increase in acidic organelle formation, suggesting a pro‐survival response in promastigotes. Through diverse flow cytometric analyses and imaging methods, we conclude that the parasitic death induced by these natural compounds does not follow the apoptosis pathway but likely involves autophagy. This discovery marks the first instance of autophagy‐mediated cell death in Leishmania donovani triggered by veratramine and hupehenine.
Carbon Risk and Corporate Tax Avoidance: Do Institutional Investors Drive Business to Organize for Social Good?
Authors: Lassoued Naima , Khanchel Imen , Souguir Zahra
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of carbon risk on tax avoidance strategies, analyzing a dataset comprising 854 American corporations observed from 2015 to 2022. By using the two‐stage least squares (2SLS) regression method with instrumental variables, the findings provide evidence that carbon risk increases tax avoidance. Furthermore, institutional investors moderate this relationship by attenuating the positive impact of carbon risk on tax avoidance. This paper offers an in‐depth understanding of the impact of carbon risk on tax avoidance, enriching the debate on what constitutes good and bad business practices. Additionally, it adds new attributes to explore the fundamental question of what makes business good? Finally, it highlights some recommendations to advance the dialog on the concept of organizing for social good.
Comparison of Carbon Stock Potential of Different ‘Trees Outside Forest’ Systems of Palakkad District, Kerala: A Step Towards Climate Change Mitigation
Authors: Jeevan Kavya , Shilpa Gunasekharan , Manjusha Kannankodantavida , Muthukumar Anbazhagi , Muthuchamy Muthukumar
Published: November 2024

Carbon stock options to mitigate climate change have become a significant area of interest as every possible way to address this global issue is being explored. Afforestation and ecosystem restoration activities are widely adopted to improve the potential of the land in carbon storage. The Kerala State Action Plan on Climate Change proposed the ‘Trees outside forests (Tof)’ as an effective mechanism to mitigate climate change. Due to its discrete distribution and non‐uniformity, there are fewer attempts to measure the potential of these systems. Palakkad district of Kerala has a discrete climate due to the Palaghat gap and the absence of a coastal line. The district also has a major population depending on agriculture. This study tried to determine and compare the carbon (C) stock potential of the three ‘Trees outside forest (Tof)’ conditions prevailing in the Palakkad district, Kerala. The carbon stock by standing biomass and soil of four sites of undisturbed natural vegetation, monoculture plantation, and home garden were estimated using allometric equations and computations. The natural vegetation was found to have a higher carbon stock potential (238.58 Mg ha−1) compared with monoculture plantation (166.23 Mg ha−1) and human habitat (74.87 Mg ha−1). Also, natural vegetation's soil organic carbon content was much higher than monoculture plantations and home gardens. The study also estimated the soil deterioration index of each land use compared with the natural vegetation and barren land. The results of the study suggested that land use has a great influence on soil quality and carbon stock potential. Proper management of these Tof systems can enhance their productivity and contribute accountable support towards mitigating climate change.
Athletes vs. Musicians: Perceptions and Preferences in Workplace Social Programs
Authors: Celse J.
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the intrinsic preferences for athletic versus musical events in the context of workplace social programs and explores the differing outcomes these events are perceived to generate. Empirical evidence consistently shows that individuals with athletic backgrounds are favoured in the job market, receiving better wages and benefits than their nonathlete counterparts because of stereotypes about their managerial qualities, stress handling and team spirit. In contrast, music participation is often undervalued, with musicians facing wage disparities and discrimination despite the cognitive and emotional benefits associated with music playing and listening. Through a vignette study, this research identifies that participants prefer athletes for events aimed at team cohesion and musicians for events designed to enhance creative skills. The findings highlight a type of job market discrimination based on preferences for workplace programs, emphasizing the role of stereotypes in shaping these preferences. The study contributes to the understanding of how workplace social programs are designed and the underlying biases that influence these decisions, offering insights into the mechanisms of job market discrimination and the potential for more inclusive program design that recognizes the value of both athletic and musical participation.
Numerical simulation and its optimization of cold air pools in the Lanzhou Valley
Authors: Ma Minjin , Kang Guoqiang , Zhao Zhenzhu , Cao Yidan
Published: November 2024

Persistent cold air pools (CAPs) trap pollutants in valleys for extended periods, leading to reduced visibility and increased air pollution within these valleys. The structure of the persistent cold air pool that occurred in the Lanzhou Valley in December 2016 was simulated using different Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) scenarios of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, and the simulation of the persistent cold air pool was further optimized in these PBL scenarios. The simulation results indicated that weather‐scale dry subsidence and nighttime ground radiation cooling were significant factors contributing to the accumulation of persistent CAPs and pollutants in the Lanzhou Valley. In contrast, convective lifting from the ground led to the dissipation of persistent CAPs and a reduction in pollution within the valley. During persistent CAPs, the PM2.5 concentration and valley heat deficit (Q) were 66.7% and 62% higher, respectively, than during non‐CAP. In the original MYNN scheme, the average PBL height, double turbulent kinetic energy (QKE), and turbulence length scale during persistent CAPs decreased by 30.79%, 50.5%, and 34.4%, respectively, compared to non‐CAP. Compared with the original MYNN scheme, the optimized MYNN scheme shows a significant improvement in the turbulence simulation during the sustained CAPs, resulting in a more stable atmosphere. The PBL height during the sustained CAPs is reduced by 28 m, the diurnal turbulence length scale is reduced by 31.62%, the stability parameter is reduced by 39%, the diurnal mean QKE is reduced by 27.45%, and the QKE impact height is reduced by 100–400 m.
Prospective acceleration of whole‐brain CEST imaging by golden‐angle view ordering in Cartesian coordinates and joint k‐space and image‐space parallel imaging (KIPI)
Authors: Zu Tao , Yong Xingwang , Dai Zhechuan , Jiang Tongling , Hsu Yi‐Cheng , Lu Shanshan , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To prospectively accelerate whole‐brain CEST acquisition by joint k‐space and image‐space parallel imaging (KIPI) with a proposed golden‐angle view ordering technique (GAVOT) in Cartesian coordinates.

Theory and Methods

The T2‐decay effect will vary across frames with variable acceleration factors (AF) in the prospective acquisition using sequences with long echo trains. The GAVOT method uses a subset strategy to eliminate the T2‐decay inconsistency, where all frames use a subset of shots from the calibration frame to form their k‐space view ordering. The golden‐angle rule is adapted to ensure uniform k‐space coverage for arbitrary AFs in Cartesian coordinates. Phantom and in vivo studies were conducted on a 3 T scanner.

Results

The GAVOT view ordering yielded a higher g‐factor than conventional uniformly centric ordering, whereas the noise propagation in amide proton transfer (APT) weighted images was similar between different view ordering. Compared to centric ordering, GAVOT successfully eliminated the T2‐decay inconsistency across all frames, resulting in fewer image artifacts for both KIPI and conventional parallel imaging methods. The synergy of GAVOT and KIPI mitigated strong aliasing artifacts and achieved high‐quality reconstruction of prospective variable‐AF datasets. GAVOT‐KIPI reduced the scan time to 2.1 min for whole‐brain APT weighted imaging and 4.7 min for quantitative APT signal (APT#) mapping.

Conclusion

GAVOT makes the prospective variable AF strategy flexible and practical, and, in conjunction with KIPI, ensures high‐quality reconstruction from highly undersampled data, facilitating the clinical translation of whole‐brain CEST imaging.
The effects of maternal flow on placental diffusion‐weighted MRI and intravoxel incoherent motion parameters
Authors: Hutchinson George Jack , Blakey Adam , Jones Nia , Leach Lopa , Dellschaft Neele , Houston Paul , Hubbard Matthew , O'Dea Reuben , Gowland Penny Anne
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To investigate and explain observed features of the placental DWI signal in healthy and compromised pregnancies using a mathematical model of maternal blood flow.

Methods

Thirteen healthy and nine compromised third trimester pregnancies underwent pulse gradient spin echo DWI MRI, with the results compared to MRI data simulated from a 2D mathematical model of maternal blood flow through the placenta. Both sets of data were fitted to an intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) model, and a rebound model (defined within text), which described voxels that did not decay monotonically. Both the in vivo and simulated placentas were split into regions of interest (ROIs) to analyze how the signal varies and how IVIM and rebounding parameters change across the placental width.

Results

There was good agreement between the in vivo MRI data, and the data simulated from the mathematical model. Both sets of data included voxels showing a rebounding signal and voxels showing fast signal decay focused near the maternal side of the placenta. In vivo we found higher in the uterine wall and near the maternal side of the placenta, with the slow diffusion coefficient reduced in all ROIs in compromised pregnancy.

Conclusion

A simulation based entirely on maternal blood explains key features observed in placental DWI, indicating the importance of maternal blood flow in interpreting placental MRI data, and providing potential new metrics for understanding changes in compromised placentas.
Exploring the need for a preload on the estimation of permeability, vessel radius, and relative cerebral blood volume in MR vascular fingerprinting–based dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion imaging
Authors: van Dorth Daniëlle , Venugopal Krishnapriya , van der Werff Karen N. , Smits Marion , Warnert Esther A. H. , Hernandez‐Tamames Juan A. , van Osch Matthias J. P. , Poot Dirk H. J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MRI is commonly part of the clinical brain tumor imaging protocol. Usually, a preload of contrast agent is administered to minimize contrast‐leakage T1 effects. However, recent studies have indicated that with adaptation of scan parameters (in particular, low flip angle), a preload is not required. For advanced approaches, like MR vascular fingerprinting (MRVF), which is based on combining gradient‐echo and spin‐echo readouts, excitation flip angles cannot easily be reduced, but postprocessing might alleviate leakage effects. In this study, the aim was to verify whether DSC‐MRVF can be performed without preload.

Methods

A previously established simulation model was used to create a dictionary of DSC‐MRVF signals resulting from a double‐bolus injection with varying input values for permeability, vessel radius, and relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV). A sensitivity analysis based on a Cramer Rao Lower Bound approach was performed, from which the logarithmic ratio of standard deviations for parameter estimation was derived. A ratio above zero corresponded with a better determination without preload. Two brain tumor patients were included for validation.

Results

The results show that the standard deviation for determining permeability was lower without preload, whereas for determining rCBV, the opposite result was found. For vessel radius, the standard deviation was similar with and without preload. The in vivo data reasonably agreed with the simulation results.

Conclusion

This work has shown the potential of DSC‐MRVF with a single bolus injection for determining vessel radius and permeability, although for rCBV, a preload is still advisable.
Policy Learning for National Advantage and Sovereign Governance in Non‐Western Contexts: Comparing Public Management Reforms in Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan
Authors: Karini Artan
Published: November 2024

Policy transfer literature as a strand within policy studies highlights “national context” as crucial to understanding processes of transfer, convergence, and diffusion across contexts. While the policy transfer framework associated with it more specifically identifies “facilitators” and “constraints” of such national context as key to international policy learning based on doctrines such as NPM (New Public Management) and the like, policy scholars and practitioners have been struggling not only with the puzzle of “who learns what from whom” but also “how are policy lessons learned?” Based on these underpinnings, this paper attempts to compare public management reforms in Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan, three “upper/middle‐income” countries situated respectively in South Caucasus, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, which share in common features including post‐Soviet/post‐colonial legacy, relative economic prosperity, and Muslim‐majority populations. Relying on the policy transfer framework and ethnographic empirical research in Baku, Kuala Lumpur, and Astana during July 2022 to August 2023, the findings reveal an increasing “creativity” of these regimes in terms of adopting “policy learning” to fit their “sovereignty” agenda, often masking their autocratic nature and likely causing policy communication gaps between political principals, bureaucrats, and the citizenry. The latter coupled with evidence of an increasing influence of ethno‐religious dynamics on reform implementation might as well be interpreted as transfer constraints likely to undermine the effectiveness of lesson‐learning based on global administrative doctrines in order to sustain their national competitive advantages in the long run.
Real‐World Evidence BRIDGE: A Tool to Connect Protocol With Code Programming
Authors: Royo Albert Cid , Elbers JHJ Roel , Weibel Daniel , Hoxhaj Vjola , Kurkcuoglu Zeynep , Sturkenboom Miriam C. J. , Vaz Tiago A. , Andaur Navarro Constanza L.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To enhance documentation on programming decisions in Real World Evidence (RWE) studies.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed several statistical analysis plans (SAP) within the Vaccine Monitoring Collaboration for Europe (VAC4EU) to identify study design sections and specifications for programming RWE studies. We designed a machine‐readable metadata schema containing study sections, codelists, and time anchoring definitions specified in the SAPs with adaptability and user‐friendliness.

Results

We developed the RWE‐BRIDGE, a metadata schema in form of relational database divided into four study design sections with 12 tables: Study Variable Definition (two tables), Cohort Definition (two tables), Post‐Exposure Outcome Analysis (one table), and Data Retrieval (seven tables). We provide a guide to populate this metadata schema and a Shiny app that checks the tables. RWE‐BRIDGE is available on GitHub (github.com/UMC‐Utrecht‐RWE/RWE‐BRIDGE).

Discussion

The RWE‐BRIDGE has been designed to support the translation of study design sections from statistical analysis plans into analytical pipelines and to adhere to the FAIR principles, facilitating collaboration and transparency between researcher and programmers. This metadata schema strategy is flexible as it can support different common data models and programming languages, and it is adaptable to the specific needs of each SAP by adding further tables or fields, if necessary. Modified versions of the RWE‐BRIGE have been applied in several RWE studies within VAC4EU.

Conclusion

RWE‐BRIDGE offers a systematic approach to detailing variables, time anchoring, and algorithms for RWE studies. This metadata schema facilitates communication between researcher and programmers.
Unimolecular Decomposition of CL20: Strained Cage Fragmentation
Authors: Prasad Dipak , Mitra Nilanjan
Published: November 2024

Unimolecular decomposition of caged nitroamines, such as CL20, can exhibit numerous decomposition reaction ways. Apart from the conventional, well‐known mechanisms of “nitro fission” and “HONO elimination” observed for other nitroamines, the presence of strained caging leads to “strained cage fragmentation,” as demonstrated in this theoretical study. Detailed potential energy surface of the reaction pathway involving transition steps and activation energy barriers, along with validation of the products against experimental mass spectrometry results of previous experimental investigations in literature, demonstrates the alternative decomposition mechanism. This decomposition mechanism is valid for three different polymorphs of CL20. Based on changes in free energy, this decomposition mechanism (initiated under external stimuli such as shock, temperature rise, or electromagnetic excitation) is shown to be the most probable mechanism for unimolecular decomposition with final products as CO2, N2O, HCN, C2H2, HNO3, HCOOH and HN3O4.
Insights Into the Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Different Parts of Alpinia katsumadai Hayata Based on HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS and HS‐GC‐IMS
Authors: Chen Jiaxuan , Chen Xue , Zhang Yang , Xie Jingyi , Li Xuejuan , Sun Xuehao , Yin Jiaxin , Bie Songtao , Song Xinbo , Yu Heshui , Li Zheng
Published: November 2024

Rationale

The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of Alpinia katsumadai Hayata (AKH) play a key role in determining its effects such as organoleptic properties, medicinal properties, and consumer preferences. The nonmedicinal parts (roots, fibrous roots, stems, leaves, and shells) in AKH are also rich in VOCs and different degrees of antibacterial activity. Therefore, it is important to comprehensively characterize the VOCs in different parts of AKH and learn about their potential antimicrobial abilities.

Methods

In this study, headspace gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry (HS‐GC‐IMS) and headspace solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS) were used to comprehensively investigate the compositional characteristics and differences of roots, fibrous roots, stems, leaves, shells, and seeds in AKH. Multivariate statistical analysis was used to determine the differential VOCs in different parts of AKH. The inhibition zone diameter method was used to compare the antibacterial ability of different parts.

Results

HS‐GC‐IMS and HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS analyses identified 67 and 125 VOCs, respectively. Multivariate statistical analysis showed the differences in the six parts is obvious. Compounds such as (E)‐2‐heptenal and thymol were selected as potential VOCs to distinguish six sites of AKH. In general, the inhibition effect of the volatile oils from shell and root on the two colonies was better, and the volatile oils of the four parts of AKH have better inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusion

This research conducted a comprehensive analysis of the fundamental volatile components in AKH. It subsequently elucidated the distinctions and specificities in different parts. The antibacterial effect of volatile oil in different parts was further compared, which was conducive to finding alternative parts for seeds in some active aspects, and the utilization of AKH was more sufficient.
H∞$$ {H}_{\infty } $$ Synchronization of Semi‐Markovian Switching Complex‐Valued Networks With Time‐Varying Delay: A Delay‐Dependent Event‐Triggered Mechanism
Authors: Li Qiang , Wei Hanqing , Gong Weiqiang , Wang Jinling
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on the synchronization issue for delayed semi‐Markovian switching complex‐valued networks via the delay‐dependent event‐triggered mechanism. For the first time, in order to reduce the redundant information transmission and the number of false triggers, a novel event‐triggered mechanism is proposed, which involves the network‐induced time delay and the latest triggered signal. Second, based on the proposed delay‐dependent event‐triggered control scheme, the desired results can be realized. Specifically, by utilizing the stochastic analysis technique and Lyapunov stability theory as well as mixed reciprocally convex inequalities, some sufficient less conservative criteria are achieved to ensure the synchronization error system realize the globally asymptotically mean‐square stability with a pre‐established disturbance performance. Furthermore, the expected controller gain matrices can be explicitly designed by solving some solvable matrix inequalities. At the end of paper, an illustrative example with simulations is presented to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed delay‐dependent event‐triggered scheme.
Ergonomic Evaluation of a Walk‐Behind AI‐Based Cotton Fertilizer Applicator
Authors: Chouriya Arjun , Soni Peeyush , Hota Smrutilipi , Thomas E. V.
Published: November 2024

The mechanization of agricultural operations greatly influences both the efficiency of farming operations and the health and safety of farm workers. Human exposure to working environments represents a significant hazard associated with machines and the environment. This research focuses on evaluating the ergonomic aspects of the newly developed artificial intelligence (AI)‐based cotton fertilizer applicator, aiming to assess the potential impact on workers' health, safety, and overall exertion. Ergonomic factors such as heart rate (HR), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), energy expenditure rate (EER), physiological work cost, as well as discomfort and posture during use, were assessed at three different operating speeds of the applicator. Results showed that HRs, OCR, and EER ranged from 86 to 109 beats/min, 0.44 to 0.83 L/min, and 9.3 to 17.45 kJ/min, respectively, indicating that the physical demands on workers were within manageable limits. Discomfort was predominantly noted in the palms, attributed to the necessity of controlling the applicator with both hands. Analysis of cardiac effort revealed that 93.75%, 92.70%, and 94.67% of effort was expended during work at speeds of 0.5, 0.8, and 1 km/h, respectively, with the remainder during recovery periods. The workload on the middle deltoid muscle during field operation varied between 10.15%–14.58% for left‐hand controls and 1.85%–3.5% for right‐hand controls. Statistical analysis highlighted significant differences in physiological responses among participants, with ergonomic parameters closely linked to the applicator's forward speed. The study concludes using the developed AI‐based cotton fertilizer applicator does not pose significant health risks to operators, suggesting its ergonomic design effectively mitigates physical strain.
Antimicrobial, Anticancer, and Antioxidant Activities of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Ethyl Acetate Extract of Ageratum houstonianum Mill. Leaf
Authors: Choudhary Enna , Kumar Sahil , Bithel Navneet , Biswas Amrita , Das Dipankar , Banerjee Chiranjib
Published: November 2024

In the era of increasing antimicrobial resistance towards conventional antibiotics, antimicrobial nanoparticles appeared as one of the best alternatives. In the present study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were prepared using ethyl acetate extract of Ageratum houstonianum Mill. leaf. The ZnO NPs were analyzed using different characterization techniques. A characteristic stretching frequency at 498 cm−1 in the FTIR spectrum and the XRD result indicated the formation of ZnO. FESEM and HRTEM images revealed that ZnO NPs were spherical‐shaped. The zeta potential data implied that the produced ZnO NPs were anionic (−15.5 mV). Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs was performed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Klebsiella pneumoniae and showed the highest efficiency toward S. aureus with a zone of inhibition of 14.3 ± 0.3 mm. Synthesized ZnO NPs exhibited antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 110.59 µg/mL. The in vitro cell study with synthesized ZnO NPs ascertained that the NPs exhibited anticancer activity against breast cancer cell lines (MCF‐7) with the IC50 value of around 65 µg/mL. Overall, these findings showed that ZnO NPs synthesized using A. houstonianum Mill. leaf extract have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities and could be used for therapeutic applications.
Long‐Cycling, Fast‐Charging Lithium Metal Batteries Enabled by Nickel‐Carbon Composite Nanosheet Arrays Modified Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Wang Xin , Xu Lei , Niu Shuzhang , Zhang Qicheng , Lian Qing , Xiang Shengling , Mao Zongyu , Han Ye , Huang Yulan , Li Guanting , Zuo Ziteng , Lan Shenglian , Shi Run , Liao Chengzhu , Li Huili , Amini Abbas , Wang Ning , Cheng Chun
Published: November 2024

Lithium (Li) metal anode, one of the most promising candidates for next‐generation rechargeable batteries, has always suffered from uneven Li deposition/stripping. To address this issue, this work designs a novel nickel‐carbon composite modified Li metal anode (FNC‐NF) by carbonizing fluoride nickel hydroxide nanosheet arrays grown on nickel foam (NF). These electrochemical tests present that the conductive and lithiophilic FNC can effectively restrain the growth of Li dendrites during the cycling of Li deposition/stripping at large capacities up to 10 mAh cm−2. This result is attributed to the featured FNC composition combining a core of nickel hydroxide and a mixed coating of defective carbon and Ni nanoparticles, and the unique hierarchical morphology of the FNC‐NF integrating porous NF and vertically aligned FNC nanosheets. Consequently, the FNC‐NF presents a stable coulombic efficiency performance after 900 cycles with an average of 99.23% for half cells, a lifespan over 3200 h for symmetric cells at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2, and a remarkable cycling stability at large current densities of up to 15 mA cm−2 at 1 mAh cm−2. Moreover, the Li||FNC‐NF||LiFePO4 full cells show superior capacity retention and cycling stability at 1 C.
Engineering Autologous Cell‐Derived Exosomes to Boost Melanoma‐Targeted Radio‐Immunotherapy by Cascade cGAS‐STING Pathway Activation
Authors: Zhang Fangming , Zhang Ziyao , Yang Wanting , Peng Zhuyuan , Sun Juntao , Li Guofeng , Wei Yen , Wang Xing , Zhao Lingyun , Xie Wensheng
Published: November 2024

Radio‐immunotherapy has offered emerging opportunities to treat invasive melanoma due to its immunostimulatory performances to activate antitumor immune responses. However, the immunosuppressive microenvironment and insufficient response rate significantly limit the practical efficacy. This study presents an autologous cell‐derived exosomes (Exo)‐engineered nanoagonist (MnExo@cGAMP) containing with metalloimmunotherapeutic agent (Mn2+ ions) and nucleotidyltransferase (2′,3′‐cGAMP, a STING agonist) for boosting melanoma‐targeted radio‐immunotherapy by cascade cGAS‐STING pathway activation. The MnExo@cGAMP can efficiently accumulate in tumor cells due to the autologous targeting performance. Once internalized by tumor cells, the released Mn2+ ions will enhance stimulator of interferon gene (STING) binding and sensitize cyclic GMP‐AMP (cGAS) to radiotherapy‐induced double‐straned DNA (dsNDA), resulting in amplification of cGAS‐STING pathway activation together with X‐ray irradiation. Meanwhile, loaded 2′,3′‐cGAMP can directly augment pathway activity acting as a secondary messenger. These cascade activations of cGAS‐STING pathway trigger the overexpression of type I interferon, promote dendritic cells (DCs) maturation, antigen presentation, and increase CD8+ T cell activation, resulting effective radio‐immunotherapeutic outcome by overcoming immune‐suppression in melanoma. This study demonstrates a targeted therapeutic modality involving metalloimmunotherapy and agonist for efficient melanoma radio‐immunotherapy by cascade cGAS‐STING pathway activation.
A Bifunctional Iron‐Nickel Oxygen Reduction/Oxygen Evolution Catalyst for High‐Performance Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Chen Zhengfan , Cheng Weiyi , Cao Kecheng , Jin Meng , Rahali Sarra , Chala Soressa Abera , Ebrahimi Elnaz , Ma Nana , Liu Rongji , Lakshmanan Keseven , Chang Chia‐Yu , Cheung Chun‐Chi , Luo Haojian , Wang Yongkang , Hwang Bing Joe , Streb Carsten
Published: November 2024

Efficient and robust electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are crucial for fuel cells, metal‐air batteries, and other energy technologies. Here, a highly stable, efficient bifunctional OER/ORR electrocatalyst (FeNi‐NC@MWCNTs) is reported and demonstrated its integration and robust performance in an aqueous Zinc–air battery (ZAB). The catalyst is based on neighboring iron/nickel sites (FeNiN6) which are atomically dispersed on porous nitrogen‐doped carbon particles. The particles are wrapped in electrically conductive multi‐walled carbon nanotubes for enhanced electrical conductivity. Electrocatalytic analyses show high OER and ORR performance (OER/ORR voltage difference = 0.69 V). Catalyst integration in a ZAB results in excellent performance metrics, including an open circuit voltage of 1.44 V, a specific capacity of 782 mAh g−1 (at j = 15 mA cm−2), a peak power density of 218 mW cm−2 (at j = 260 mA cm−2) and long‐term durability over 600 charge/discharge cycles. Combined experimental and theoretical (density functional theory) analyses provide an in‐depth understanding of the physical and electronic structure of the catalyst and the role of the FeNi dual atom reaction site. The study therefore provides critical insights into the structure and reactivity of high‐performance bifunctional OER/ORR catalysts based on atomically dispersed non‐critical metals.
Strategic Patterns to Foster the Evolution of Emerging Software Ecosystems
Authors: Belo Ítalo , Alves Carina
Published: November 2024

Platform owners like SAP, Eclipse Foundation, and Microsoft have developed partnership models to expand their software ecosystems. These models govern the cluster of complementors, enabling the attraction and maintenance of partners and consumers. Companies aiming to define new partnership models when moving from a software product approach to an ecosystem face challenges that may limit their growth. When establishing an emerging ecosystem, platform providers (i.e., keystones) must perform several activities, such as attracting and retaining partners, defining rules of participation, managing risks, and maintaining the quality of the platform. This paper proposes three strategic patterns to assist companies in structuring their partnership models. The patterns provide actionable guidance to companies establishing new ecosystems. We adopted the Design Science Research (DSR) method to conduct the study. Following the DSR cycle, the strategic patterns were defined using a Multivocal Literature Review. The strategies described in the proposed patterns were validated by the industry professionals with experience in emerging software ecosystems. The proposed patterns help keystone companies adopt suitable strategies to address the following challenges: selecting partners, attracting and retaining consumers, technically structuring the platform while maintaining the robustness of the ecosystem, managing risks and conflicts, and assisting complementors in developing, selling, and distributing solutions in the ecosystem.