bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors and challenges affecting Enactus members’ social entrepreneurial actions: a focus group study
Authors: Otache Innocent , Akubo Alewo Johnson , David Bosede Beatrice
Published: June 2024

Purpose

There is a paucity of studies on factors influencing social entrepreneurial behaviours or actions. Against this background, this study aims to explore factors and challenges affecting Enactus members’ social entrepreneurial actions in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative approach, and data were gathered through three focus group discussions involving 25 people (18 Enactus members, 4 faculty advisors and 3 business advisory board members). The study adopted a content analysis technique for data analysis.

Findings

The findings reveal that social mission orientation, desire to create social impact and social problems influence Enactus members’ social entrepreneurial actions. Other influencing factors include social entrepreneurial passion, moral obligation, social empathy and social support. In addition, the study finds that financial and time constraints affect Enactus members’ social entrepreneurial actions.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for social entrepreneurs/enterprises, governments/policymakers and Enactus members.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first qualitative study that provides insights into the factors influencing a group of people towards social entrepreneurial actions.
Dynamics of tree stems and biomass in old‐growth and secondary forests along gradients in liana dominance, elevation and soil
Authors: Ngute Alain Senghor K. , Pfeifer Marion , Schoeman David S. , Gereau Roy E. , Mnendendo Hamidu R. , Lyatuu Herman M. , Seki Hamidu A. , Shirima Deo D. , Marshall Andrew R.
Published: June 2024

Lianas, or woody vines, are key components of many tropical forests and can have substantial impacts on the dynamics and functioning of these important ecosystems. Their competition with trees for resources, in particular light, can hamper the recovery of forests from disturbances. Yet, it is unclear how forest disturbance interacts with liana–tree ratio (LTR), topography and soil properties to shape tree dynamics and the trajectories of forest succession.

Using temporal data from the Kilombero Valley and the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania, we demonstrate how the dynamics of tree stems and biomass vary between secondary and old‐growth forests with changes in the dominance of lianas and environmental gradients.

Greater tree recruitment and mortality in secondary forests compared with old‐growth forests suggested rapid regeneration processes and faster turnover. However, no significant differences were found in the net annual changes in the number or biomass of trees between secondary and old‐growth forests.

Our findings also showed that higher LTRs were positively associated with stem mortality but also with tree biomass growth, indicating a nuanced ecological role of lianas in forest ecosystems, which warrants further investigation to fully understand the causal factors at play.

Net changes in tree stem numbers decreased significantly with elevation, implying climatic constraints on forest regeneration at higher elevations. Soil cation exchange capacity and organic carbon were found to significantly influence tree stem recruitment and net change in abundance, although their effects on biomass remained unclear.

Synthesis: Our findings indicate that the recovery of tropical forests from disturbance in terms of the number and biomass of tree stems may be predictable along environmental gradients. These insights have the potential to broaden our capacity to develop more nuanced strategies that identify when and where tropical forests may require restoration interventions, with a focus on structural recovery.
Corporate fraud and independent director's re‐appointment: Information hypothesis or favouritism hypothesis?
Authors: Lyu Xiaoliang , Zhang Xiaochen
Published: June 2024

Using the analytical framework of social identity theory, this paper explores how a special corporate governance arrangement in the Chinese capital market, i.e., independent directors' re‐appointment, affects corporate ethical behaviours. Using the bivariate probit model, we find that independent directors’ re‐appointment significantly increases corporate fraud propensity, indicating that the favouritism towards re‐appointed independent directors by firms generated from social identity plays a dominant role in the corporate governance outcome in a relationship‐based society. Our results remain consistent after using an exogenous shock to alleviate the endogenous problems. The policy implication of this paper is that the corporate arrangement of re‐appointed independent directors in the Chinese capital market may impair stakeholders’ benefit and weaken business ethics. Top‐level institutional design should be improved and consider thoroughly the effects of social identity on corporate governance outcomes.
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis in a Schapendoes dog is caused by a missense variant in CLN6
Authors: Bellamy Kim K. L. , Skedsmo Fredrik S. , Hultman Josefin , Jansen Johan Høgset , Lingaas Frode
Published: June 2024

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a group of neurodegenerative disorders that occur in humans, dogs, and several other species. NCL is characterised clinically by progressive deterioration of cognitive and motor function, epileptic seizures, and visual impairment. Most forms present early in life and eventually lead to premature death. Typical pathological changes include neuronal accumulation of autofluorescent, periodic acid‐Schiff‐ and Sudan black B‐positive lipopigments, as well as marked loss of neurons in the central nervous system. Here, we describe a 19‐month‐old Schapendoes dog, where clinical signs were indicative of lysosomal storage disease, which was corroborated by pathological findings consistent with NCL. Whole genome sequencing of the affected dog and both parents, followed by variant calling and visual inspection of known NCL genes, identified a missense variant in CLN6 (c.386T>C). The variant is located in a highly conserved region of the gene and predicted to be harmful, which supports a causal relationship. The identification of this novel CLN6 variant enables pre‐breeding DNA‐testing to prevent future cases of NCL6 in the Schapendoes breed, and presents a potential natural model for NCL6 in humans.
Unveiling the impact of territorial and network embeddedness on circular economy adoption in cooperatives
Authors: De Bernardi Chiara , Corsini Filippo , Annesi Nora , Frey Marco
Published: June 2024

The paper explores the adoption and operationalization of the circular economy strategy within the ambit of cooperatives, anchoring this exploration in the embeddedness theory. In more detail, our study aims to discern whether territorial and network embeddedness act as catalysts for the adoption of a circular economy strategy and subsequently influence the operationalization of circular initiatives. Given that cooperatives intrinsically emphasize community bonds and mutualistic relationships, understanding the nuances of their embeddedness can elucidate the pathways in adopting and operationalizing circular economy strategies. The study draws from a survey encompassing 1116 Italian cooperatives to fathom how these organizations integrate and operationalize the circular economy in their routine operations. Data were scrutinized using a structural equation model. Outcomes reveal that both territorial and network embeddedness emerge as strong influencers of circular economy strategies, which subsequently sway the operationalization of circular initiatives. Our investigation, assessing also the mediating role of circular economy strategy adoption in relation to both territorial and network embeddedness on the assimilation of circular endeavors, offers enriched theoretical and managerial perspectives on the embeddedness theory and its practical implications.
It ain't over till it's over: Adjusting the intensity and conformity of championing efforts after initial failure
Authors: Surma‐aho Antti , Kirjavainen Senni , Björklund Tua A.
Published: June 2024

While past research has shown that championing plays a key role in sheltering and advancing novel ideas towards implementation, relatively little is known about how adversity and failure are dealt with through championing behaviour. The current embedded case study draws from 43 interviews in a large industrial technology organization, examining new product and service development idea pathways. We found four types of championing responses in the 61 instances where initial idea advancement efforts did not bear fruit: lateral shifts, reworking, temporal shifts and moaning. In each of these, the idea was seen as valuable by the developer, but the attribution of initial failure and perceptions of effort‐to‐performance and performance‐to‐outcome expectancies varied in distinct combinations of conforming and nonconforming types of championing with varying intensity. Taken together, the results contribute towards understanding the multidimensional nature and temporal dynamics of championing in persisting under adversity by illuminating factors that contribute to championing response type decisions and opportunities to better support idea development efforts in organizations.
The barriers to uptake of disaster risk management science in urban planning: A political economy analysis
Authors: Panwar Vikrant , Wilkinson Emily , Pelling Mark
Published: June 2024

There is increasing effort in science to support disaster risk management (DRM) and climate change adaptation in urban environments. It is now common for research calls and projects to reference coproduction methods and science uptake goals. This paper identifies lessons for researchers, research funders, and research users wishing to enable useful, useable, and used science based on the perspectives of research users in urban planning from low‐ and middle‐income countries. DRM‐supporting science is viewed by policy actors as: complicated and poorly communicated; presenting inadequate, partial, and outdated information; misaligned with policy cycles; and costly to access and inadequately positioned to overcome the policy barriers that hinder integration of DRM into urban planning. Addressing these specific concerns points to more systematic collection and organisation of data and enhancement of supporting administrative structures to facilitate better sight of human vulnerability and its link to development decision‐making and wider processes of urban risk creation.
Quantifying uncertainty in fatigue crack growth of SLM 316L through advanced predictive modeling
Authors: Haselibozchaloee Danial , Correia José A. F. O. , Braga Daniel F. O. , Cipriano Gonçalo , Reis Luis , Manuel Lance , Moreira Pedro M. G. P.
Published: June 2024

Optimizing structural designs is crucial today, with additive manufacturing, particularly selective laser melting, gaining prominence. Thorough mechanical characterization of new materials remains vital. This paper investigates fatigue crack growth behavior in SLM 316L specimens under cyclic loading conditions. The study addresses result uncertainties by using CT specimens aligned along three building directions per ASTM E647 standards and a constant loading ratio (R = 0.1), necessitating mean value and confidence interval predictions. Departing from linear prediction models, innovative Bootstrap Polynomial and Power Regression Models and Bayesian Nonlinear Regression Model updated posterior distribution by Markov Chain Monte Carlo are employed. These approaches leverage bootstrapping to construct confidence intervals, offering robustness and flexibility in handling non‐normal data behavior and limited sample sizes. They provide tailored fits to data curvature, revealing limitations of linear prediction models in capturing observed nonlinear behavior, enhancing reliability in additive manufacturing applications, and advancing material science and engineering.
Metaheuristics for solving a flexible flow‐shop scheduling problem with s‐batching machines
Authors: Rocholl Jens , Mönch Lars
Published: June 2024

A scheduling problem for a two‐stage flexible flow shop with s‐batching machines motivated by processes in additive manufacturing is considered. A batch is a group of jobs that are processed together on a single machine. Each job belongs to an incompatible family. Only jobs of the same family can be batched together. A maximum batch size is given. A setup time occurs between different batches. The jobs of a batch are processed in a serial manner, that is, the processing time of a batch is the sum of the processing times of the jobs forming the batch. Batch availability is assumed. A job has a weight, a due date, and a release date. The total weighted tardiness is considered as performance measure. We establish a mixed integer linear programming formulation for this scheduling problem. For large‐sized problem instances, an iterative decomposition approach (IDA) is proposed that uses a grouping genetic algorithm or an iterated local search (ILS) scheme to solve the single‐stage subproblems. Moreover, an alternative ILS scheme based on a disjunctive graph representation of the problem at hand is designed. Results of computational experiments based on randomly generated problem instances demonstrate that the IDA hybridized with ILS outperforms the two other schemes.
Evolving trends in the management of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) during SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Scutiero G. , Taliento C. , Vizzielli G. , Vitagliano A. , Soraci G. , Sabattini A. , Spelzini F. , Cappadona R. , Tormen M. , Arcieri M. , Ercoli A. , Greco P.
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is usually managed by conservative treatment, but in selected cases, especially in the presence of a tubo‐ovarian abscess (TOA), surgical management is a recognized treatment option. We compared the trends in managing PID and short‐term outcomes before and during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.

Methods

This is a retrospective study performed in three Italian gynecological centers. We included patients admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of PID. Demographic characteristics, management, time to diagnosis, and time to treatment were compared before versus during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.

Results

One hundred nineteen PID patients were screened, eighty‐one before the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, and thirty‐eight after the onset. At admission, leukocytosis (median 19.73 vs. 13.99 WBC/mm3, p‐value = 0.02) was significantly higher in patients who underwent surgery after the onset of the pandemic. TOA incidence was higher in patients who underwent surgery during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, but the difference did not reach statistically significance (p = 0.06). The proportion of patients treated with surgery dropped to 26.3% after the onset from 46% of patients before the onset of pandemic (p = 0.03). Furthermore, a higher percentage of emergency surgical procedures on day 0 of hospital admission were performed after the onset of the pandemic (50% vs. 13.1%, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

In this retrospective cohort study, we found that the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic influenced the clinical presentation and management of PID in favor of conservative treatment. Patients who underwent surgery during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic had higher inflammatory markers.
CD4+CD8αα+ is the dominant phenotype of intraepithelial lymphocytes and regulated by ThPOK and Runx3 in oral lichen planus
Authors: Bao Chao‐Fan , Wang Fang , Zhou Dong‐Yang , Zhou Gang
Published: June 2024

Background

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common T cell‐mediated oral mucosal immune inflammatory disease. Intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) are a unique subset of T cells that play an important role in regulating immune response. This study aims to investigate the phenotype and the differentiation mechanism of IELs in OLP.

Methods

The expression of CD4, CD8α, CD8β, T‐helper‐inducing POZ/Krueppel‐like factor (ThPOK), and RUNX family transcription factor 3 (Runx3) in the epithelium and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of OLP was determined by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Then, the correlations among them were analyzed. Naïve CD4+ T cells were sorted from blood of OLP patients and stimulated with retinoic acid (RA) and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1). Then the expression of CD4, CD8α, CD8β, ThPOK, and Runx3 was investigated by immunocytochemistry.

Results

CD8α expression and CD8αα+ cells were upregulated in the epithelium of OLP, whereas they were downregulated in PBMCs of OLP. CD8β was not expressed in the epithelium of OLP. CD4, CD8α, and Runx3 expression and CD4+CD8α+ cells were increased, whereas ThPOK expression was decreased in the epithelium of OLP. CD8α expression was positively correlated with Runx3 expression, whereas ThPOK expression was negatively correlated with Runx3 expression. After RA and TGF‐β1 stimulation, CD8α and Runx3 expression was upregulated, and ThPOK expression was downregulated in naïve CD4+ T cells.

Conclusion

CD4+CD8αα+ IELs may be the dominant phenotype of IELs in OLP, and the differentiation of CD4+CD8αα+ IELs in OLP is negatively regulated by ThPOK and positively regulated by Runx3.
‘Because it reminds me of my culture.’ ‘Because I want to challenge myself.’ ‘Because I like all the stars and the swirls.’ What influences children's independent choice of text?
Authors: Reedy Alice , Reedy David
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the perspectives of children in two East London primary schools on what influences their independent choice of text, in the context of developing reading for pleasure in schools. All children in three selected year groups (ages approximately 6, 8 and 10) were invited to take part in the research, and from those that volunteered, six children per year group were randomly selected in each school. These focus groups were then observed choosing reading material from a range of pre‐determined texts which varied in genre, recommended age‐range and representation of diverse groups. The children were then interviewed, with the two researchers seeking to understand the factors that influenced their decisions. A thematic analysis was subsequently conducted to determine the most prevalent of these factors; the researchers identified seven key themes, which will be discussed in this paper. Practical implications that were identified for supporting children to read for pleasure are then suggested, based on these themes.
Genomic insights into hybrid zone formation: The role of climate, landscape, and demography in the emergence of a novel hybrid lineage
Authors: Bolte Constance E. , Phannareth Tommy , Zavala‐Paez Michelle , Sutara Brianna N. , Can Muhammed F. , Fitzpatrick Matthew C. , Holliday Jason A. , Keller Stephen R. , Hamilton Jill A.
Published: June 2024

Population demographic changes, alongside landscape, geographic and climate heterogeneity, can influence the timing, stability and extent of introgression where species hybridise. Thus, quantifying interactions across diverged lineages, and the relative contributions of interspecific genetic exchange and selection to divergence at the genome‐wide level is needed to better understand the drivers of hybrid zone formation and maintenance. We used seven latitudinally arrayed transects to quantify the contributions of climate, geography and landscape features to broad patterns of genetic structure across the hybrid zone of Populus trichocarpa and P. balsamifera and evaluated the demographic context of hybridisation over time. We found genetic structure differed among the seven transects. While ancestry was structured by climate, landscape features influenced gene flow dynamics. Demographic models indicated a secondary contact event may have influenced contemporary hybrid zone formation with the origin of a putative hybrid lineage that inhabits regions with higher aridity than either of the ancestral groups. Phylogenetic relationships based on chloroplast genomes support the origin of this hybrid lineage inferred from demographic models based on the nuclear data. Our results point towards the importance of climate and landscape patterns in structuring the contact zones between P. trichocarpa and P. balsamifera and emphasise the value whole genome sequencing can have to advancing our understanding of how neutral processes influence divergence across space and time.
Expanding Kane's argument‐based validity framework: What can validation practices in language assessment offer health professions education?
Authors: Dai David Wei , Vu Thao , Knoch Ute , Lim Angelina S. , Malone Daniel Thomas , Mak Vivienne
Published: June 2024

Context

One central consideration in health professions education (HPE) is to ensure we are making sound and justifiable decisions based on the assessment instruments we use on health professionals. To achieve this goal, HPE assessment researchers have drawn on Kane's argument‐based framework to ascertain the validity of their assessment tools. However, the original four‐inference model proposed by Kane – frequently used in HPE validation research – has its limitations in terms of what each inference entails and what claims and sources of backing are housed in each inference. The under‐specification in the four‐inference model has led to inconsistent practices in HPE validation research, posing challenges for (i) researchers who want to evaluate the validity of different HPE assessment tools and/or (ii) researchers who are new to test validation and need to establish a coherent understanding of argument‐based validation.

Methods

To address these identified concerns, this article introduces the expanded seven‐inference argument‐based validation framework that is established practice in the field of language testing and assessment (LTA). We explicate (i) why LTA researchers experienced the need to further specify the original four Kanean inferences; (ii) how LTA validation research defines each of their seven inferences and (iii) what claims, assumptions and sources of backing are associated with each inference. Sampling six representative validation studies in HPE, we demonstrate why an expanded model and a shared disciplinary validation framework can facilitate the examination of the validity evidence in diverse HPE validation contexts.

Conclusions

We invite HPE validation researchers to experiment with the seven‐inference argument‐based framework from LTA to evaluate its usefulness to HPE. We also call for greater interdisciplinary dialogue between HPE and LTA since both disciplines share many fundamental concerns about language use, communication skills, assessment practices and validity in assessment instruments.
Cortactin: A major cellular target of viral, protozoal, and fungal pathogens
Authors: Sharafutdinov Irshad , Friedrich Barbara , Rottner Klemens , Backert Steffen , Tegtmeyer Nicole
Published: June 2024

Many viral, protozoal, and fungal pathogens represent major human and animal health problems due to their great potential of causing infectious diseases. Research on these pathogens has contributed substantially to our current understanding of both microbial virulence determinants and host key factors during infection. Countless studies have also shed light on the molecular mechanisms of host–pathogen interactions that are employed by these microbes. For example, actin cytoskeletal dynamics play critical roles in effective adhesion, host cell entry, and intracellular movements of intruding pathogens. Cortactin is an eminent host cell protein that stimulates actin polymerization and signal transduction, and recently emerged as fundamental player during host–pathogen crosstalk. Here we review the important role of cortactin as major target for various prominent viral, protozoal and fungal pathogens in humans, and its role in human disease development and cancer progression. Most if not all of these important classes of pathogens have been reported to hijack cortactin during infection through mediating up‐ or downregulation of cortactin mRNA and protein expression as well as signaling. In particular, pathogen‐induced changes in tyrosine and serine phosphorylation status of cortactin at its major phospho‐sites (Y‐421, Y‐470, Y‐486, S‐113, S‐298, S‐405, and S‐418) are addressed. As has been reported for various Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria, many pathogenic viruses, protozoa, and fungi also control these regulatory phospho‐sites, for example, by activating kinases such as Src, PAK, ERK1/2, and PKD, which are known to phosphorylate cortactin. In addition, the recruitment of cortactin and its interaction partners, like the Arp2/3 complex and F‐actin, to the contact sites between pathogens and host cells is highlighted, as this plays an important role in the infection process and internalization of several pathogens. However, there are also other ways in which the pathogens can exploit the function of cortactin for their needs, as the cortactin‐mediated regulation of cellular processes is complex and involves numerous different interaction partners. Here, the current state of knowledge is summarized.
Modal Design Optimization for Panel Flutter and Thermal Buckling
Authors: McHugh Kevin A. , Leszcz Catherine G.
Published: June 2024

This work investigates a new method to design aircraft skin panels to minimize weight while providing sufficient strength to withstand both buckling due to aerodynamic heating and flutter due to dynamic pressure over the panel. In this work, mass minimization is done via an optimization of panel thickness distribution as opposed to fill-void techniques or methods of adding discrete stiffeners found in the literature or in practice. The thickness distribution and therefore optimization problem is further reduced in numerical order by utilizing a Galerkin projection of global thickness basis functions. A comparison is made to available commercial optimization software. The developed tool results in a 6–17% reduction in weight for an optimized panel for thermal buckling stability when compared to the optimally thin flat panel.
Enhancing Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites by 3D Printing Optimization
Authors: Liu Xingyu , Billings Christopher , Sherwood Benjamin , Hall Joshua , Nimmo Caylin , Liu Yingtao
Published: June 2024

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized the production of three-dimensional objects by utilizing a layer-by-layer approach. Among the materials used, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have gained significant attention. The integration of carbon fibers and a polymer matrix offers enhanced structural integrity, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance, making these composites appealing for aerospace, automotive, and a broad range of other engineering applications. AM of CFRP composites allows the precise alignment of carbon fibers during fabrication for the optimization of mechanical performance. Multiple AM methods have been developed for AM of CFRP, including fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and continuous fiber printing. Challenges associated with the AM of CFRP include interfacial bonding, resin impregnation, printability and process control, and post-processing.

This presentation reported an investigation of the printability, material property, and geometrical accuracy of CFRP composites using the FDM method. Short carbon fiber and polylactic acid (PLA) are selected and prepared as the filament for 3D printing. The 3D printing capability of short carbon fiber reinforced composites is investigated using different layer heights, printing speeds, and nozzle and build-bed temperatures to determine the optimal printing parameters. Critical mechanical properties of the 3D printed composites, including tensile and flexural moduli and strengths, are characterized following ASTM standards. The interlayer adhesion within composites is studied by scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and porosity tests. The microstructures, particularly porous size and shape can be visualized using microscopy technologies. The average porosity of 3D printed composites can be calculated by comparing the design of 3D printed composites and the original filament. This study can lead to an improved understanding of AM-processed structural composites for broad aerospace, automotive, and mechanical applications.
Sport Psychology Practitioners’ Contributions to the Drafting Process of a Professional Esports Team: A Case Study
Authors: Brain Jonathan , Wright Oliver , Quartiroli Alessandro , Wagstaff Christopher R.D.
Published: June 2024

The role of sport psychology practitioners in contributing to the drafting process of athletes in teams, by providing their input on athletes’ psychological makeup, has become a common practice. Similar to traditional sport, esport organizations also engage in drafting periods to identify the next talents. Yet, a paucity of literature exists examining practitioners’ experiences of operating during such trial periods in the esport context. In this case study, we outline our process of being involved as sport and exercise psychologists in training during a professional National Overwatch team draft period for the 2023 Overwatch World Cup. As a supplementary resource to help staff during the selection process, we created player psychological profiles by assessing their psychological qualities through formal observation. Following the trials, we established an after-care service to support released players to monitor their well-being. We discuss the various hurdles we experienced during the trial period as sport and exercise psychologists in training by sharing a series of reflections.
Spectrally engineered textile for radiative cooling against urban heat islands
Authors: Wu Ronghui , Sui Chenxi , Chen Ting-Hsuan , Zhou Zirui , Li Qizhang , Yan Gangbin , Han Yu , Liang Jiawei , Hung Pei-Jan , Luo Edward , Talapin Dmitri V. , Hsu Po-Chun
Published: June 2024

Radiative cooling textiles hold promise for achieving personal thermal comfort under increasing global temperature. However, urban areas have heat island effects that largely diminish the effectiveness of cooling textiles as wearable fabrics because they absorb emitted radiation from the ground and nearby buildings. We developed a mid-infrared spectrally selective hierarchical fabric (SSHF) with emissivity greatly dominant in the atmospheric transmission window through molecular design, minimizing the net heat gain from the surroundings. The SSHF features a high solar spectrum reflectivity of 0.97 owing to strong Mie scattering from the nano-micro hybrid fibrous structure. The SSHF is 2.3°C cooler than a solar-reflecting broadband emitter when placed vertically in simulated outdoor urban scenarios during the day and also has excellent wearable properties.
Structural basis for odorant recognition of the insect odorant receptor OR-Orco heterocomplex
Authors: Wang Yidong , Qiu Liang , Wang Bing , Guan Zeyuan , Dong Zhi , Zhang Jie , Cao Song , Yang Lulu , Wang Bo , Gong Zhou , Zhang Liwei , Ma Weihua , Liu Zhu , Zhang Delin , Wang Guirong , Yin Ping
Published: June 2024

Insects detect and discriminate a diverse array of chemicals using odorant receptors (ORs), which are ligand-gated ion channels comprising a divergent odorant-sensing OR and a conserved odorant receptor co-receptor (Orco). In this work, we report structures of the
Ap
OR5-Orco heterocomplex from the pea aphid
Acyrthosiphon pisum
alone and bound to its known activating ligand, geranyl acetate. In these structures, three
Ap
Orco subunits serve as scaffold components that cannot bind the ligand and remain relatively unchanged. Upon ligand binding, the pore-forming helix S7b of
Ap
OR5 shifts outward from the central pore axis, causing an asymmetrical pore opening for ion influx. Our study provides insights into odorant recognition and channel gating of the OR-Orco heterocomplex and offers structural resources to support development of innovative insecticides and repellents for pest control.
A phage tail–like bacteriocin suppresses competitors in metapopulations of pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Backman Talia , Latorre Sergio M. , Symeonidi Efthymia , Muszyński Artur , Bleak Ella , Eads Lauren , Martinez-Koury Paulina I. , Som Sarita , Hawks Aubrey , Gloss Andrew D. , Belnap David M. , Manuel Allison M. , Deutschbauer Adam M. , Bergelson Joy , Azadi Parastoo , Burbano Hernán A. , Karasov Talia L.
Published: June 2024

Bacteria can repurpose their own bacteriophage viruses (phage) to kill competing bacteria. Phage-derived elements are frequently strain specific in their killing activity, although there is limited evidence that this specificity drives bacterial population dynamics. Here, we identified intact phage and their derived elements in a metapopulation of wild plant–associated
Pseudomonas
genomes. We discovered that the most abundant viral cluster encodes a phage remnant resembling a phage tail called a tailocin, which bacteria have co-opted to kill bacterial competitors. Each pathogenic
Pseudomonas
strain carries one of a few distinct tailocin variants that target the variable polysaccharides in the outer membrane of co-occurring pathogenic
Pseudomonas
strains. Analysis of herbarium samples from the past 170 years revealed that the same tailocin and bacterial receptor variants have persisted in
Pseudomonas
populations. These results suggest that tailocin genetic diversity can be mined to develop targeted “tailocin cocktails” for microbial control.
Molecular mechanism of plasmid elimination by the DdmDE defense system
Authors: Loeff Luuk , Adams David W. , Chanez Christelle , Stutzmann Sandrine , Righi Laurie , Blokesch Melanie , Jinek Martin
Published: June 2024

Seventh-pandemic
Vibrio cholerae
strains contain two pathogenicity islands that encode the DNA defense modules DdmABC and DdmDE. In this study, we used cryogenic electron microscopy to determine the mechanistic basis for plasmid defense by DdmDE. The helicase-nuclease DdmD adopts an autoinhibited dimeric architecture. The prokaryotic Argonaute protein DdmE uses a DNA guide to target plasmid DNA. The structure of the DdmDE complex, validated by in vivo mutational studies, shows that DNA binding by DdmE triggers disassembly of the DdmD dimer and loading of monomeric DdmD onto the nontarget DNA strand. In vitro studies indicate that DdmD translocates in the 5′-to-3′ direction, while partially degrading the plasmid DNA. These findings provide critical insights into the mechanism of DdmDE systems in plasmid elimination.
New Alzheimer’s drug clears FDA advisory vote despite unknowns
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Pivotal trial of Eli Lilly’s donanemab leaves questions about how to prescribe it and minimize risks
Dual-use research and research using enhanced pathogens in high-income countries: whose business?
Authors: Eyal Nir , Leshabari Melkizedeck , Sarker Malabika
Published: June 2024

U.S. regulation of dual-use research of concern and of research with enhanced pathogens of pandemic potential may alter soon. Much has been written on the best form for that regulation to take. Less was written on a procedural question: whose voices should shape that regulation? This commentary addresses the latter, the procedural question, regarding the appropriate parties to the deliberations and decisions on this matter. It proposes to U.S. virologists that it would be in the interests of their discipline and only appropriate if that regulation were shaped by many voices from outside the discipline and from outside the United States.
Distinct drivers of bacterial community assembly processes in riverine islands in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Yao Lu , Wu Junmei , Liu Shouzhuang , Xing Hao , Wang Pei , Gao Wenjuan , Wu Zhenbin , Zhou Qiaohong
Published: June 2024

Riverine islands are widespread alluvium wetlands developed in large rivers, and bacterial communities are crucial to their ecological function, yet their assembly processes are rarely addressed. The ecosystem services provided by the middle and the lower Yangtze are primarily threatened by pollution discharge from agricultural land use, and resource overutilization (e.g., embankments), respectively. Here, we assessed bacterial community assembly processes and their drivers within riverine islands in the middle Yangtze River (MR islands) and those in the lower reach (LR islands). A significant distance–decay relationship was observed, although the turnover rate was lower than that of the terrestrial ecosystem with less connectivity. Deterministic and stochastic processes jointly shaped community patterns, and the influence of stochastic increased from 26% in MR islands to 59% for those in LR islands. Meanwhile, the bacterial community in MR islands was controlled more by inorganic nitrogen availability, whereas those in LR islands were governed by pH and EC, although those factors explained a limited fraction of variation in the bacterial community. Potential indicator taxa (affiliated with
Nocardioides
and
Lysobacter
) characterized the waterway transport pollution. Overall, our study demonstrated that bacterial community dissimilarity and the importance of dispersal limitation increased concurrently along the flow direction, while distinct local factors further determined bacterial community compositions by selecting habitat-specificity taxa and particularly metabolism function. These findings enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms driving changes in bacterial communities of riverine islands subject to increased anthropogenic impacts.

IMPORTANCE

Rivers are among the most threatened ecosystems globally and face multiple stressors related to human activity. However, linkages between microbial diversity patterns and assembly processes in rivers remain unclear, especially in riverine islands developed in large rivers. Our findings reveal that distinct factors result in divergent bacterial community compositions and functional profiles in the riverine islands in the middle Yangtze and those in the lower Yangtze, with substantial differentiation in deterministic and stochastic processes that jointly contribute to bacterial community assemblages. Additionally, keystone species may play important metabolic roles in coping with human-related disturbances. This study provides an improved understanding of relationships between microbial diversity patterns and ecosystem functions under environmental changes in large river ecosystems.
Does voluntary assisted dying impact quality palliative care? A retrospective mixed-method study
Authors: Michael Natasha , Jones David , Kernick Lucy , Kissane David
Published: June 2024

Objectives

We aimed to explore the relationship between the pursuit of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) and the delivery of quality palliative care in an Australian state where VAD was newly available

Methods

We adopted a retrospective convergent mixed-methods design to gather and interpret data from records of 141 patients who expressed an interest in and did or did not pursue VAD over 2 years. Findings were correlated against quality domains.

Results

The mean patient age was 72.4 years, with the majority male, married/partnered, with a cancer diagnosis and identifying with no religion. One-third had depression, anxiety or such symptoms, half were in the deteriorating phase, two-thirds required help with self-care and 83.7% reported moderate/severe symptoms. Patients sought VAD because of a desire for autonomy (68.1%), actual suffering (57.4%), fear of future suffering (51.1%) and social concerns (22.0%). VAD enquiries impacted multiple quality domains, both enhancing or impeding whole person care, family caregiving and the palliative care team. Open communication promoted adherence to therapeutic options and whole person care and allowed for timely access to palliative care. Patients sought VAD over palliative care as a solution to suffering, with the withholding of information impacting relationships.

Significance of results

As legislation is expanded across jurisdictions, palliative care is challenged to accompany patients on their chosen path. Studies are necessary to explore how to ensure the quality of palliative care remains enhanced in those who pursue VAD and support continues for caregivers and staff in their accompaniment of patients.
Probing symmetric teleparallel gravity in the early universe
Authors: De Avik , Saha Dalia , Subramaniam Ganesh , Sanyal Abhik Kumar
Published: June 2024

General theory of relativity can be equivalently formulated on a flat spacetime associating a torsion-free affine connection of non-vanishing non-metricity scalar Q. In this paper, we present an extension of this, viz., the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity, and explore the early evolution of the universe in the background of anisotropic Bianchi-I model. The [Formula: see text] theory in the current setting through its geometric modification is quite successful in explaining the late time accelerated expansion. Here, we note that it accommodates latest released constraints on the inflationary parameters by Planck’s collaboration group with excellent precession, but fails to produce a viable decelerated expansion in the radiation dominated era.
An innovative educational approach to teach high school students the physiological mechanisms and nutrition concepts associated with the development of obesity
Authors: Kamel-ElSayed Suzan , Uhley Virginia
Published: June 2024

An interdisciplinary team-teaching session was introduced to high school students who participated in the Oakland University William Beaumont Future Physician Summer Enrichment Program. The session aimed to integrate physiological concepts and nutrition that are associated with the development of obesity. The session was delivered using combined educational approaches including a dialogical-narrative approach and hands-on application activity that are guided by combined learning theories such as dialogism, narrative, theories of engagement, and multimedia active learning.
Serious Concern of Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) in India: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kumar Maneesh , Kumar Suman , Kumar Ratnesh , Jha Mithilesh Kumar , Tiwari Shashank Nand , Gupta Pratima
Published: June 2024

Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) is a major concern in India and highlights the multifaceted challenges posed by the Zika virus (ZIKV). The alarming increase in CZS cases in India, a condition that has serious effects on both public health and newborns, has raised concerns. This review highlights the importance of raising concern and awareness and taking preventive measures by studying the epidemiology, clinical symptoms, and potential long‐term consequences of CZS. The review also contributes to worldwide research and information sharing to improve the understanding and prevention of CZS. As India deals with the changing nature of CZS, this thorough review is an important tool for policymakers, health workers, and researchers to understand what is happening now, plan for what to do in the future, and work together as a team, using medical knowledge, community involvement, and study projects to protect newborns’ health and reduce the public health impact of these syndromes.
Extraction of Cellulosic Compound from Jackfruit Peel Waste and Characterization of PVA Cellulose Composite as Biodegradable Film
Authors: Rahman Aquib , Nipu Shah Md Ashiquzzaman , Alam Md Shamsul , Alam S. Sharar , Ahmed Md. Tanvir , Shantona Anika Afroz , Moon Mahjabin
Published: June 2024

Plastics utilized in packaging have a significant impact on the environment, leading to considerable concerns regarding human and environmental well‐being. Researchers globally are working to counteract these incidents by integrating biopolymers like starch, cellulose, chitosan, etc., into the packaging sector because of their nontoxic nature, biodegradability, and eco‐friendly properties. This study aims to extract cellulose from jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) peel by combining bleaching and alkaline treatment (17.5% w/v NaOH) and utilizes the extracted cellulosic compounds to produce a practical biodegradable film. The constructed film can be an alternative to synthetic films currently used in industries, minimize environmental harm caused by plastics, and offer a waste management option for jackfruit peels. The study extracted 28.04% cellulose from jackfruit peel wastes, and it was subsequently utilized to develop a biocompatible composite film containing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and extracted cellulose. The percentage of cellulose being used in PVA is 0%, 20%, 50%, and 80% compared to pure PVA film. Mechanical properties (tensile atrength, elastic modulus, tensile energy absorption, and strain) as well as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), water absorption, and soil burial test were done to define the material and functional properties of 0%, 20%, 50%, and 80% cellulose‐PVA composite film. Among four films, 20% of the jackfruit‐extracted cellulose‐reinforced PVA film has shown better results compared to others. It has shown maximum thermal stability at 368.2°C. Conversely, the 50% cellulose‐reinforced PVA film has maximum contraction at 57.4°C with a value of 130.6 μm compared to other percentages in terms of thermomechanical analysis. It also shows the maximum water absorption percentage. It is evident from this study that a cellulosic component generated from jackfruit peels can be used with PVA to make biodegradable packaging films.
Remote Field Application of Digital Technology for Hearing Assessments in a Cohort of Pediatric Germ Cell Tumor Survivors
Authors: Monterroso Pablo S. , Knight Kristin , Roesler Michelle A. , Sample Jeannette M. , Poynter Jenny N.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Childhood cancer survivors treated with platinum-based chemotherapy are at risk of treatment-induced hearing loss. Accurate evaluation of hearing thresholds has historically been limited to clinical audiometry, which is logistically challenging and expensive to include in epidemiologic studies. We evaluated the feasibility of using a remote, tablet-based hearing assessment in a cohort of pediatric germ cell tumor survivors treated with platinum-based chemotherapy.

Methods:

Survivors from the GCT Outcomes and Late effects Data (GOLD) study were recruited to the pilot study (n = 100). Study personnel conducted remote hearing assessments of standard and extended high frequency thresholds using validated tablet-based audiometry (SHOEBOX, Inc.). T tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests evaluated differences in assessment characteristics between children and adults. Agreement between self-reported and measured hearing loss was calculated using Cohen κ.

Results:

We were able to reach 136/168 (81%) eligible participants, of which 100 (74%) agreed to participate. Successful completion of the remote hearing assessment was high [97%; 20 children (ages 7–17), 77 adults (ages 18–31)]. The mean assessment length was 37.6 minutes, and the mean turnaround time was 8.3 days. We observed hearing loss at standard frequencies in 21% of participants. Agreement between self-reported and measured hearing loss was significant (P value = 1.41 × 10−7), with 83.5% concordance.

Conclusions:

Hearing loss measured using the remote assessment aligns with self-reporting and rates of hearing loss reported in the literature for this population.

Impact:

Remote application of tablet-based audiometry is a feasible and efficacious method for measuring hearing in epidemiologic studies with participants spread across large geographic areas.