bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The profound influence of the North Atlantic Ocean on Northeast Asia: A comprehensive multi‐model study
Authors: Monerie Paul‐Arthur , Dong Buwen , Sun Weiwen , Zhang Lixia
Published: November 2024

We assess the effects of the North Atlantic Sea surface temperature multidecadal variability on Northeast Asia using a set of sensitivity experiments (with a total of 530 ensemble members). We show that a warming of the North Atlantic Ocean leads to a strong and robust increase in temperature over Northeast Asia, which is replicated by a large majority of ensemble members. We show that the effect of the North Atlantic on Northeast Asia is model and season‐dependent. We focus on two seasons, for which response to the North Atlantic Ocean is the most robust (autumn) and the less robust (spring) as indicated by the number of models that simulate a statistically significant change in surface air temperature. We use a clustering method to identify the sources of differences between models in simulating the effects of warming in the North Atlantic. We find that the primary mechanism linking the North Atlantic to Northeast Asia is a perturbation of the circumglobal teleconnection pattern (i.e., of the upper tropospheric atmospheric circulation), which allows modulation of the near‐surface atmospheric circulation and an increase in temperature over East Asia. A second mechanism is related to the influence of the North Atlantic on the Pacific Ocean and the resulting effects on atmospheric circulation over Northeast Asia.
Keep Title IX compliance in mind when revenue‐sharing with student‐athletes
Authors: Romano Robert
Published: November 2024

The NCAA, together with the Power Conferences, settled a series of federal antitrust lawsuits this past May by agreeing to establish a pay‐for‐play system for its Division I student‐athletes. This new financial structure requires that colleges and universities share 20–22% of their athletics department revenue with their student‐athletes, capped at $20 million per year. No part of the proposed settlement agreement addresses, however, how this new financial model would impact gender equity, which is noteworthy because of the ongoing debate as to whether Title IX applies to issues surrounding compensation.
Know how to handle requests for information from students’ potential employers
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: November 2024

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act regulations require colleges and universities to keep a record of a disclosure of education records if that disclosure is for nondirectory information released to a third party. The record of the disclosure must include (1) the record(s) disclosed, (2) the party receiving the record(s), and (3) the legitimate interest that the party had in requesting the information. Legitimate interest isn’t defined in the regulations. It's different than, but similar to, our frequently mentioned legitimate educational interest.
ChatGPT has bias against disabled applicants
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2024

An increasing number of recruiters use artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for summarizing résumés and evaluating candidates. But ChatGPT frequently rates résumés and curriculum vitae featuring disability‐related achievements lower than résumés lacking such details, according to a University of Washington study.
Does money motivate prospective foster parents? Are responses from high vs. low‐income towns different? Evidence from Google advertising
Authors: Roy Subroto , Roy Jayanti
Published: November 2024

Recruiting foster parents is a worldwide challenge. In the US, foster parents are supposed to volunteer but receive stipends to cover the cost of foster children. Thus, Foster Care agencies hesitate to highlight the Stipend in their recruitment messaging to prospective foster parents. This hesitation is to weed out extrinsically (stipend) motivated prospective parents early in the application, training and licensing process.

The first step in foster parent recruitment is to start the conversation between prospective foster care parents and foster parent recruiters.

Extant research has relied on current or former foster parents to find their motivations for fostering and continuing to foster. We believe ours is the first study to empirically examine whether mentioning money (stipend) early in the recruitment process makes a difference in the response of prospective foster parents.

The research reports Google ads data from two foster parent recruitment campaigns. These Google search ads showed when “foster parenting” related words were Googled. One ad had the word “stipend,” and the other did not. We then examine differences in response between high and low‐income towns. Next, we analysed differences in click behaviour over 207 days between the two versions of the ads. We then examined differences in click behaviour between residents of high and low‐income towns. We used the t‐test to test for differences in our data analysis approach.

We find no statistical difference in response between the ads that mention ‘stipend’ and those that do not (t = 0.64, p = 0.26). However, residents of low‐income towns are five times more likely to click on a foster parent ad than residents from high‐income towns, irrespective of whether the stipend is mentioned in the ad (without mentioning stipend: t = 3.21, p = 0.0008; mentioning Stipend: t = 3.77, p = 0.0001).
Smart Shopping Carts in Food Retailing: Innovative Technology and Shopping Experience in Stationary Retail
Authors: Schultz Carsten D. , Zacheus Patrick
Published: November 2024

In the development of the Internet of Things, smart shopping carts present a digital innovation that can realize cost‐cutting potential and improve the shopping experience. The impact of smart shopping carts on customers' shopping experience is analyzed in stationary grocery retailing. We explore first whether customers are willing to use these technological innovations, specifically smart shopping carts. Second, the effect of smart shopping carts on customers' shopping experiences is evaluated. For this, we employed a mixed method approach combining a survey study and an interview follow‐up study. A purposive sampling recruited 291 stationary grocery shoppers. A variance‐based structural equation analysis tests the research model for the adoption of smart shopping carts and their relevance to customers' shopping experience. Next, 22 interviews were conducted with grocery shoppers following an intervention approach. Customers are willing to use smart shopping carts when shopping for groceries in stationary retailing. Customers focus on the ease of use and usefulness of the shopping carts, whereas privacy risk and temporary enjoyment are less relevant. However, our empirical results show that affective, social (employee), and physical components predominantly shape the shopping experience compared with the technical component of smart shopping carts. Smart shopping carts similarly affect the cognitive component and the social (customer) component. In contrast to other digital retail innovations, customers seem to value utility of smart shopping carts above else. Stationary retailers can, thus, focus their introduction of smart shopping carts on countering technology anxiety and highlighting customer benefits of shopping comfort and reduced checkout times.
When Gain/Loss Framing Exerts Its Effects and How: Examining the Roles of Risk Perceptions, Anticipated Regret, and Anxiety
Authors: Kim Jarim
Published: November 2024

Over the past 30 years, gain/loss framing has received substantial scholarly attention from advertising researchers. Nevertheless, its effects are not yet fully understood, and further research is required to clarify mixed findings reported in previous studies. In response to this gap in the literature, this study examined the mechanisms through which risk perceptions affect gain/loss framing effects, using two experiments involving different levels of risks. Experiment 1, which involves low risk, showed that gain framing was more effective for consumers with stronger risk perceptions. However, this advantage disappeared when consumers' risk perceptions were weak. In Experiment 2, which involves high risk, loss framing was more effective for consumers with weaker risk perceptions; however, these effects disappeared when consumers' risk perceptions were very strong. The study also revealed that anticipated regret mediates the interaction effects of framing and risk perceptions on attitudes and intentions. The findings of this study suggest that risk perceptions may help explain the inconsistent results reported in previous research.
Catalyst Based on Palladium‐Modified MIL‐53(Al) Pyrolysate for ORR in Alkaline Media
Authors: Yu Vinogradov K. , Shafigulin R. V. , Davydov V. A. , Tokranova Е. О. , Korchagin О. V. , Radina M. V. , Sokolov А. V. , Bulanova А. V.
Published: November 2024

A catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) based on the metal‐organic framework material MIL‐53(Al) modified with palladium was synthesized. Its textural and morphological characteristics were studied using the method of adsorption porosimetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA‐DSC). The electrocatalytic properties of the synthesized material in ORR were studied by voltammetry, using a rotating disk electrode. Corrosion resistance was studied in the CV mode. It was found that the synthesized catalyst is characterized by high corrosion resistance. The tolerance of synthesized catalyst Pyr_MIL‐53(Al)_Pd to the methanol was studied. The obtained catalyst was studied in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) formed by spraying an ionomer suspension onto a gas diffusion layer (GDL). The synthesized Pyr‐MIL‐53 (Al)_Pd and commercial platinum (60% Pt) (HiSPEC 9100) catalysts were compared in the cathode composition, and 10% PtM (M = Ni, Mo)/CNT catalysts were used on the anode. The power density of the FC (P) was calculated based on the obtained current‐voltage curves. Based on the set of characteristics, the synthesized catalyst based on MIL‐53 (AL) doped with palladium is superior in efficiency to the commercial platinum catalyst.
From In Situ Monitoring to Better Understanding of the Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross Coupling in the Solid State
Authors: Pajić Mario , Barišić Dajana , Babić Darko , Ćurić Manda , Juribašić Kulcsár Marina
Published: November 2024

Effects of various Additives, Base, Catalyst, as well as substrates on the mechanochemically‐induced Suzuki‐Miyaura reaction have been studied. In situ Raman monitoring of the solid‐state reactions gave a detailed view of the reaction course and allowed a direct comparison of the time‐resolved product formation. The acquired knowledge allows in‐depth understanding of the reaction, especially the action of the catalyst in presence of diverse chemicals, leading to the more efficient cross coupling reactions in the solid state.
Decomposition Mechanism of Alkylidene Bridged Tetrazoles With Different Carbon Chain Lengths
Authors: Venugopal Sarika , Vargeese Anuj A.
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen‐rich heterocycles, particularly tetrazole‐based high‐energy density materials (HEDMs) offer high performance, low sensitivity, and are eco‐friendly. Despite the diversity of nitrogen‐rich energetic heterocycles, many are sensitive to external stimuli, and the introduction of a methylene, ethylene, or C−C linkage between nitrogen‐rich heterocycles is a successful strategy to improve mechanical sensitivity and thermal stability. Understanding the potential anomalous thermal or kinetic behavior of such molecules is crucial for the design of new HEDMs and practical applications of these molecules. We have investigated the influence of introducing an alkylidene bridge between the energetic nitrogen heterocycles on the decomposition mechanism and pathway of different bridged tetrazoles, namely 5,5’‐Bis‐1H‐tetrazole, 1,2‐Bis(5‐tetrazolo)methane, and 1,2‐Bis(5‐tetrazolo)ethane, using thermal experiments, mass spectrometry, and computational analysis. Kinetic parameters were evaluated using a non‐linear integral method, and decomposition pathways were proposed based on mass fragmentation data. Stability comparisons were made using HOMO‐LUMO gap and electrostatic potential (ESP) values from computational calculations.
If You Give a Therapist a Network: A Qualitative Analysis of Therapists' Reactions to Their Patients' EMA‐Based Network Models
Authors: Hall Mila , Wagner Annika A. , Scherner Paloma V. , Rubel Julian A.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Network models hold much promise for use in the form of personalized feedback, which the TheraNet Project aims to investigate. In the present study, we share therapists' first reactions to patient network models based on ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data.

Method

Therapists (N = 24) were taught to interpret the network models based on their patient's data. They were provided with concrete use suggestions at the end of the workshop. The workshops were analysed using descriptive qualitative content analysis. The resulting codes were then grouped thematically.

Results

Therapists spoke about using the networks for “case conceptualization”, “therapy planning”, and “psychoeducation”, but also commented on the “study design”. Before the concrete suggestions, therapists most frequently voiced thoughts on its uses for “case conceptualization”. After the suggestions, “psychoeducation” was mentioned most frequently.

Conclusions

Therapists intuitively connected network models to case conceptualizations. Once concrete suggestions were provided, therapists more frequently discussed networks as psychoeducative tools.
Narrow Therapeutic Index Drugs: FDA Experience, Views, and Operations
Authors: Donnelly Mark , Fang Lanyan , Madabushi Rajanikanth , Zhu Hao , Luke Markham , Canterbury Crystal , Lerman Bruce , Kaur Paramjeet , Patel Devvrat , Sun Wanjie , Schuirmann Don , Dinsmore Steven , Mehta Mehul , Zhao Liang
Published: November 2024

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has defined narrow therapeutic index (NTI) drugs as “those drugs where small differences in dose or blood concentration may lead to serious therapeutic failures and/or adverse drug reactions that are life‐threatening or result in persistent or significant disability or incapacity.” FDA has undertaken efforts to develop NTI assessment criteria and enhance public confidence in generic NTI drugs through public workshops, research, and post‐marketing surveillance. In 2015, FDA formed the NTI Drug Working Group to develop a consistent approach to identify NTI drugs and resolve NTI‐related scientific and regulatory issues in a transparent and collaborative manner. One key objective of the NTI Drug Working Group is to evaluate potential NTI drugs based on five general characteristics of NTI drugs as highlighted in the case example for theophylline drug products. As of January 5, 2024, there are 33 drug products, with 14 distinct active ingredients, specified as NTI drugs in their respective product‐specific guidances (PSGs) for generic drug development. Future collaborative efforts with other agencies to harmonize the terms and definitions for NTI drugs may help enhance clarity and consistency during the drug development and the regulatory review process.
The effect of CSR on corporate financial performance, considering the role of female representation in the retail industry
Authors: Izadi Javad , Shetra Manita Kaur , Foroudi Pantea , Palazzo Maria
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to examine relationships between CSR and corporate financial performance, considering the role of board diversity in retail industry in the UK. The theories examined include Friedman's theory and Stakeholder theory, which have conflicting ideas on whose needs a company should serve. Quantitative methodology is utilized to capture sample data comprising 10 years of financial data. Data were collected on companies listed on the FTSE 100 during 2012–2021 that were operating in the UK retail sector. This study uses regression analysis to test the hypothesis that analyses the relationship between CSR, gender diversity, and financial performance. There is no significant relationship between gender diversity and financial performance. The number of female directors on the board does not impact financial performance, so the regression analysis does not allow us to reject the null hypothesis. Instead, past performance, sales growth, and leverage impact financial performance.
Hydrogen and Solid Carbon Production via Methane Pyrolysis in a Rotating Gliding Arc Plasma Reactor
Authors: Ali Zulfiqar , Song Hohyun , Trieu Nguyen Uyen Nhat , Shim Hyung Cheoul , Lee Seung‐Mo , Majeed Muhammad , Lee Dae Hoon
Published: November 2024

Plasma‐induced methane pyrolysis is a promising hydrogen production method. However, few studies have focused the decomposition of pure methane as a discharge gas. Herein, a rotating gliding arc reactor was used for the conversion of methane (discharge gas and feedstock) into hydrogen and solid carbon. Methane conversion, gaseous product selectivity, and energy usage efficiency (specific energy requirement for hydrogen production (SER)) were investigated as functions of operating parameters, e. g., specific energy input (SEI), residence time, and reactor design. SEI was positively (almost linearly) correlated with methane conversion and hydrogen yield and negatively correlated with SER. Conversion and efficiency of energy usage increased when reactor designs providing higher thermal densities were used. With the increasing flow rate of methane at constant SEI, the reaction volume and, hence, the effective residence time of the gas inside the reaction zone increased, which resulted in methane conversion and hydrogen selectivity enhancement. The solid carbon featured four distinct domains, namely graphitic carbon, turbostratic carbon, multi‐layer graphene, and amorphous carbon, which indicated a nonuniform temperature distribution in the reaction zone. But it seems that graphitic carbon dominates amorhphous one. This study highlights the potential of rotating gliding arc plasma systems for efficient methane conversion into hydrogen and valuable solid carbon products.
Respective Advantages of Growing Different Green Manure With Nitrogen Fertilization in Cotton‐Based Cropping Systems: Insights From a Three‐Year Field Study
Authors: Zhang Zhenggui , Wang Jian , Huang Weibin , Han Yingchun , Wang Guoping , Feng Lu , Li Xiaofei , Xiong Shiwu , Xin Minghua , Li Yabing , Wang Zhanbiao
Published: November 2024

Planting green manure to improve cash crop yield and soil health has been widely recognized, and understanding cash crop performance after green manure integration is pivotal for determining its potential to bolster and enhance crop productivity and sustainable production. However, it is unclear whether the effects of different types of green manure on subsequent cash crops are uniform. In order to clarify this issue, we systematically analyzed the effects of green manure types and nitrogen (N) application rates on succeeding cotton agronomic performance, yield, biomass, yield stability, and nutrient uptake. A split‐plot experiment with two factors was designed, main factor includes four cover cropping systems monoculture cotton (MC), February orchid/cotton cover cropping (FoC), hairy vetch/cotton cover cropping (HvC), and a mixture of February orchid and hairy vetch/cotton cover cropping (FHC), and sub‐main factor include four N application levels (0 (N0), 112.5 (N1), 168.75 (N2), and 225 (N3) kg N ha−1). Results suggests that nonlegume green manure (February orchid) accumulated more biomass, N, P, and K nutrients than the legume green manure (hairy vetch) and green manure mixture. Compared with cotton yield of MC, the FoC, HvC, and FHC system increased by 5.8%, 7.6%, and 15%, respectively. N use efficiency was more significantly influenced by the N application rates than by cropping systems. Specifically, as N application rates increased, N use efficiency decreased under MC, HvC, and FHC systems, while it increased under the FoC system. Additionally, we observed a trade‐off between cotton yield and yield stability, with the highest yield stability when cotton yield reached 2633 kg ha−1. This study provides evidence that nonlegume green manure (February orchid) with greater advantages on cotton vegetative organ growth, legume green manure (hairy vetch) can promote nutrient uptake compared to other green manure, while green manure mixture (February orchid and hairy vetch mixture) significantly increased cotton yield and yield stability. These findings provide evidence‐based insights highlighting the respective benefits of incorporating diverse species of green manure into cotton‐based cropping systems in the Yellow River Basin of China.
Using Horizon Scanning to Build Policy Resilience: Case of Waste Crime
Authors: Garnett Kenisha , Wilson Alister , Wilkinson Edith
Published: November 2024

Waste crime is a pressing concern for the waste and resource industry as it is undermining investment, growth and jobs within the industry and threatening the natural environment. However, there is little knowledge of the scale of the problem, the types of criminality and motivations involved, and the precise nature of crime. Environmental regulators are building foresight capabilities to better understand the effect of current and future changes in markets, in technology and in the legislative environment on waste crime and associated behaviours. At the heart of this paper is the question: how can horizon scanning be adopted by environmental regulators to shape decision processes and build resilience to waste crime? We report our efforts to build a toolkit and guidance for conducting horizon scanning, aimed at supporting environmental regulators, investigators and intelligence analysts to build an understanding of—and interpretation of the consequences of—behavioural, market, technological and pollution trends in the waste sector. A review of the academic and grey literature provided insights to organisational approaches and design principles for public sector horizon scanning. Outputs guided discussion at a stakeholder workshop with waste regulators, criminal intelligence and industry professionals to explore institutional challenges and to agree broad design principles for a horizon scanning process. The toolkit supports environmental regulators in applying horizon scanning to policy and wider operational and delivery‐focused challenges; learning how to: (1) spot weak signals and emerging trends quickly, (2) examine the evidence around potential threats and opportunities for the future, and (3) take action on strategically important issues to minimise the impact of crime on the environment, society and business. The paper sets out further research needed to integrate horizon scanning with data analytics (e.g., predictive and hotspot analyses) to challenge assumptions about the patterns of change, based largely on historical trends, and to better manage these so there is greater adaptability to current and future trends.
Effects of different milk powders on the growth and intestinal flora in weaned rats: Comparison of special formula milk powder with ordinary milk powder
Authors: Mu Ruiqi , Fu Yu , Li Jufang , Xie Qinggang , Ma Weiwei
Published: November 2024

The objective of this investigation was to examine the effects of distinct dosages of infant formula and diverse formula constituents on the growth and development of weaned rats. Fifty specific pathogen‐free (SPF) male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats aged 3 weeks were divided into the basic diet group, 20% ordinary milk powder group, 20% special formula milk powder group, 30% ordinary milk powder group, and 30% special formula milk powder group randomly. After 28 days of feeding, compared with the basic diet group, the body mass and brain/body weight of rats in the 30% ordinary and special formula milk powder groups were decreased. At the Genus level, Bacteroides in the group supplemented with 20% special formula milk powder was significantly lower than that in the basic diet group, and Parabacteroides was significantly lower than that in the 20% ordinary milk powder group. Lactobacillus was significantly higher than those in the basic diet group and the 20% ordinary milk powder group, and Blautia was significantly higher than those in the basic diet group and the 20% and 30% ordinary milk powder groups, and UBA1819 was significantly higher than those in the other groups. The abundance of Parasutterella in the basic diet group was significantly higher than those in the groups supplemented with 20% ordinary milk powder, 20% special formula milk powder, and 30% ordinary milk powder. This study found that different doses and different formula components of infant milk powder could affect body mass and intestinal flora in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats, and the addition of low‐dose (20%) special formula infant milk powder can increase the beneficial bacteria in the intestinal flora of rats and may reduce the pathogenic bacteria.
Promising Pharmacological Interventions for Posterior Capsule Opacification: A Review
Authors: Liu Yuxuan , Dong Xiaoming , Wu Bin , Cheng Zhigang , Zhang Jinsong , Wang Jing
Published: November 2024

Phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation is the primary treatment for cataract. Although this treatment strategy benefits patients with cataracts, posterior capsule opacification (PCO) remains a common complication that impairs vision and affects treatment outcomes. The pathogenesis of PCO is associated with the proliferation, migration, and fibrogenesis activity of residual lens epithelial cells, with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) serving as a key mechanism underlying the condition. Transforming growth factor‐beta 2 (TGF‐β2) is a major promotor of EMT, thereby driving PCO development. Most studies have shown that drugs and miRNAs mitigate EMT by inhibiting, clearing, or eliminating LECs. In addition, targeting EMT–related signaling pathways in TGF‐β2–stimulated LECs has garnered attention as a research focus. This review highlights potential treatments for PCO and details the mechanisms by which drugs and miRNAs counter EMT.
Quantification and validation of uncertainties in subsoil models
Authors: Wiegel Andreas , Peña‐Olarte Andrés , Cudmani Roberto
Published: November 2024

In infrastructure planning and construction, modeling the subsoil and its associated uncertainty is a fundamental task of geotechnical engineers. However, probabilistic methods and tools for quantifying and displaying the uncertainty of the subsoil models are rarely used in practice where deterministic interpolation dominates. In digital planning using Building Information Modeling (BIM), the probabilistic approach supports creating a discipline model in which the uncertainties of the spatial layer structure are statistically quantified to evaluate the georisks in the design and execution of civil constructions. This article presents a case study using a combination of Sequential Gaussian Simulation (SGSIM) and Sequential Indicator Simulation (SISIM) to account for uncertainties in soil layer geometry. In a case study at the Munich Town Hall, a geostatistical approach is applied and validated based on 70 bore logs, whereby the probabilities for the occurrence of a particular layer are spatially quantified. The case study illustrates the methodology‘s great potential and benefits compared to the conventional deterministic approach based on interpolation procedures.
A View on the Emerging Concern of Oropouche Fever in Brazil and Its Diagnosis
Authors: Gopalsamy Rajiv Gandhi , Barreto Marina dos Santos , Santos Ronaldy Santana , Jesus Pamela Chaves de , Souza Jessiane Bispo de , Sena Ludmila Oliveira Carvalho , Bezerra Gabriela Vasconcelos Brito , Santos Cliomar Alves dos , Mota Santana Lucas Alves da , Hariharan Govindasamy , Borges Lysandro Pinto
Published: November 2024

Oropouche fever has gained prominence due to its outbreaks and health consequences, particularly in Latin American countries. In addition to the more common symptoms of fever and nausea, Oropouche has been reported to cause neurological and gastrointestinal problems. However, Oropouche remains a neglected disease that needs improved detection methods. The purpose of this letter is to raise awareness of this infectious disease and the methods that can be used to detect and ultimately control it.
Therapeutic potential of targeting the FLNA‐regulated Wee1 kinase in adrenocortical carcinomas
Authors: Esposito Emanuela , Marra Giusy , Catalano Rosa , Maioli Sara , Nozza Emma , Barbieri Anna Maria , Hantel Constanze , Di Dalmazi Guido , Sigala Sandra , Geginat Jens , Cassinotti Elisa , Baldari Ludovica , Palmieri Serena , Mangone Alessandra , Berruti Alfredo , Ferrante Emanuele , Mantovani Giovanna , Peverelli Erika
Published: November 2024

Filamin A (FLNA) is poorly expressed in adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) compared to adenomas (ACA). Its presence is associated to a less aggressive tumour behaviour, potentially due to its role in negatively regulating IGF1R signalling. Upregulation of G2/M Wee1 kinase was shown in FLNA‐deficient mouse neural progenitor cells, and it has been reported in several tumours. This study explored Wee1 expression in ACC and its regulation by FLNA, the effects of Wee1 inhibitor AZD1775, and the impact of FLNA on its efficacy in ACC cell lines and primary cells. Analysis of FLNA and Wee1 proteins revealed elevated Wee1 and reduced FLNA in ACC compared to normal adrenal gland. FLNA knockdown increased Wee1 protein in NCI‐H295R, MUC‐1, and in primary ACC cells. Higher p‐CDK1 and cyclin B1 were shown in FLNA‐silenced MUC‐1, while decreased Wee1, p‐CDK1 and cyclin B1 resulted after FLNA overexpression. Wee1 reduction was reverted by lactacystin treatment and FLNA transfection increased p‐Wee1 (Ser123), suggesting FLNA's role in targeting Wee1 for degradation. AZD1775 dose‐dependently reduced proliferation and viability in ACC cell lines and primary cultures, and it triggered MUC‐1 cell death. Similar effects were induced by Wee1 silencing. FLNA depletion augmented AZD1775's efficacy in reducing proliferation and potentiating apoptosis in MUC‐1 and primary cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated that FLNA regulates Wee1 expression by promoting its degradation, suggesting that low FLNA typical of ACC leads to increased Wee1 with consequent cancer cells growth. It proposes Wee1 inhibition as a new potential therapeutic approach for ACC, particularly for those lacking FLNA.
Exploring the reciprocal relationship between reflective and behavioural moral self‐efficacy: An agentic perspective to hinder moral disengagement at work
Authors: Paciello Marinella , Fida Roberta , Barbaranelli Claudio , Tramontano Carlo
Published: November 2024

Moral self‐efficacy refers to individuals' beliefs in their capability to effectively mobilise motivation, cognitive resources and strategic actions to achieve moral performance particularly in challenging situations. We adopt the conceptualization of moral self‐efficacy that encompasses both self‐reflective and behavioural components. The self‐reflective dimension pertains to one's perceived capability to reflect on past moral lapses, while the behavioural dimension involves one's perceived capability to regulate future moral conduct. The study aims to explore moral self‐efficacy as a “dynamic” process unfolding over time, focusing on the reciprocal influence between its self‐reflective and behavioural dimensions in hindering the development of moral disengagement. Utilising a three‐wave design with a sample of 1308 employees (50% females) at Time 1 results of a structural equation model support the hypothesized interplay between self‐reflective and behavioural moral self‐efficacy over time. In addition, our findings partly support our hypothesized relationships between moral self‐efficacy dimensions and moral disengagement: self‐reflective moral self‐efficacy directly and negatively influenced the development of moral disengagement over time, while behavioural moral self‐efficacy negative influenced it only indirectly through self‐reflective moral self‐efficacy.
Temporal and spatial effects of mass shootings on gun demand
Authors: Chen Yuan , Li Xun , Shi Lisi , Wang Rui , Yu Qikexin
Published: November 2024

Mass shootings in the U.S. have been at the center of the public crisis debate for a long time. Combining information on mass shootings with background check reports from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, this study applies mass shootings as exogenous shocks and reveals that the demand for guns is especially strong in the month in which a shooting occurs, and it decays with time. In addition, results confirm a spatial spillover effect of mass shootings, in which a mass shooting in one state affects gun demand in other states. The magnitude of the effect depends on the distance between the states. Our analysis also explores the difference in the effects between states with loose regulations on handguns and long guns and those with strict regulations. In the former, gun demand increases significantly after mass shootings, whereas in the latter the increase is insignificant. Finally, this study shows that consumers respond heterogeneously given the different characteristics of mass shootings, such as the number of victims and location.
Translating Blackness through youth language learning in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Hamm‐Rodríguez Molly
Published: November 2024

This article presents findings from a six‐month Language and Social Justice course collaboratively designed with multilingual educators in the Dominican Republic. Teaching and learning processes with Dominican and Haitian youth (ages 18–24) illustrate how opportunities to learn about English and Kreyòl from a transnational perspective can disrupt dominant discourses about youth's relationships with themselves and each other. By intentionally focusing on counternarratives to notions that Dominican youth reject their Blackness and that Dominican and Haitian youth interact in tension rather than solidarity, this study highlights how youth “translate blackness” (García Peña, 2022) through language learning. Drawing from transnational literacy frameworks that engage the cultural and linguistic repertoires of Black youth in relationship with one another (Skerrett & Omogun, 2020; Smith, 2023) and from Black‐centered language pedagogies (Anya, 2017; Clemons, 2021b), I describe how youth negotiate meanings and orientations to Blackness through language and literacy practices.
Topography‐Mediated Induction of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition via Alumina Textiles for Potential Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Dutta Deepanjalee , Nuntapramote Titinun , Rehders Maren , Brix Klaudia , Brüggemann Dorothea
Published: November 2024

Substrate topography is vital in determining cell growth and fate of cellular behavior. Although current in vitro studies of the underlying cellular signaling pathways mostly rely on their induction by specific growth factors or chemicals, the influence of substrate topography on specific changes in cells has been explored less often. This study explores the impact of substrate topography, specifically the tricot knit microfibrous structure of alumina textiles, on cell behavior, focusing on fibroblasts and keratinocytes for potential wound healing applications. The textiles, studied for the first time as in vitro substrates, demonstrated support for keratinocyte adhesion, leading to alterations in cell morphology and the expression of E‐cadherin and fibronectin. These topography‐induced changes resembled the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), crucial for wound healing, and were specific to keratinocytes and absent in identically treated fibroblasts. Biochemically induced EMT in keratinocytes cultured on flat alumina substrates mirrored the changes seen with alumina textiles alone, suggesting the tricot knit microfibrous topography could serve as an in vitro model system to induce EMT‐like mechanisms. These results enhance our understanding of how substrate topography influences EMT‐related processes in wound healing, paving the way for further evaluation of microfibrous alumina textiles as innovative wound dressings.
Ultrasound‐Defined Sarcopenia Independently Predicts Acute Decompensation in Advanced Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Gödiker Juliana , Schwind Lea , Jacob Torid , Böhling Nina , Reinartz Groba Sara Noemi , Kimmann Markus , Meier Jörn Arne , Peiffer Kai‐Henrik , Trebicka Jonel , Chang Johannes , Praktiknjo Michael
Published: November 2024

Background

It has been shown that in patients with liver cirrhosis, sarcopenia is a predictor of acute decompensation (AD), acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) and death. However, computer tomography (CT), as a suggested standard method for diagnosing sarcopenia, is resource intensive and involves radiation exposure. Therefore, in this study, we evaluate the muscle thickness of quadriceps femoris measured by ultrasound (US) as a prognostic parameter for AD and all‐cause mortality in chronic liver disease.

Methods

Sixty‐three patients with chronic liver disease and signs of portal hypertension were analysed in this prospective monocentric study for the occurrence of acute decompensation such as hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, haemorrhage and liver‐related death within 1 year. We assessed muscle thickness at three different heights in terms of suitability as a predictor.

Results

Among all 63 patients, 15 patients experienced acute decompensation, and 9 patients died due to liver‐related death. We found the upper third of the muscle, measured without applying pressure with the transducer, to be the most significant for predicting AD/ACLF [AUC 0.739 (confidence interval (CI) 0.604–0.874, p = 0.006]. A cut‐off value of US‐defined muscle thickness standardized per height for identifying sarcopenia was determined (1.83 cm/m). Patients with US‐defined sarcopenia showed significantly higher rates of AD (38.9% vs. 3.7%, p = 0.001) and all‐over 1‐year mortality (27.8% vs. 3.7%, p = 0.013). The mean AD free survival time is 8.3 months (95% CI 6.6–9.9) for sarcopenic patients and 11.8 months (95% CI 11.0–12.6) for the non‐sarcopenic cohorts. Corresponding CT analysis displayed similar results for AD free survival for both groups (40% AD rate in the sarcopenic group vs. 7% AD rate in the non‐sarcopenic group, p = 0.001). The risk for AD was significantly higher in the sarcopenic cohort compared with those without sarcopenia in both US and CT (US: HR 16.6; p = 0.009; 95% CI 2.0–136.0; CT: HR 8.7; p = 0.017; 95% CI 1.5–51.0). CT and US displayed a moderate agreement (p = 0.006; κ = 0.379).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia classification based on US measurements is shown to be an independent predictor of AD occurrence within 1 year. This pilot study is the first to suggest that screening for sarcopenia by ultrasonography may be useful for risk assessment in patients with chronic liver disease and signs of portal hypertension.
Orthodontic–orthognathic combined case management in postgraduate orthodontic and oral maxillofacial surgery programs
Authors: Xu Jin , Wang Steven , Yu Wenjing , Chung Chun‐Hsi , Le Anh D. , Wolff Mark S. , Li Chenshuang
Published: November 2024

Objectives

With the development of three‐dimensional (3D) image, the 3D virtual surgical planning (VSP) system has been broadly used in the treatment planning of orthodontic–orthognathic cases. This study aimed to understand the current education status regarding the use of orthodontic–orthognathic surgical planning tools in the postgraduate orthodontic and oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) programs in North America.

Methods

An electronic multiple‐choice survey was sent via email with 2‐week and 1‐month follow‐ups, requesting anonymous participation of program directors/department chairs from all postgraduate orthodontic and OMFS programs in North America. Responses were collected directly on Qualtrics for analysis.

Results

The response rate was 25.68% for orthodontic and 34.34% for OMFS programs. Two‐dimensional traditional surgical planning (TSP) at initial treatment planning and 3D VSP right before surgery were most commonly utilized in both specialty programs. All responded postgraduate OMFS programs utilized VSP, yet 26.32% of responded orthodontic programs did not utilize VSP. For the surgical outcomes, fewer orthodontic programs were highly satisfied than OMFS programs. More orthodontic programs warranted secondary surgery at a higher rate due to the unsatisfied outcome. Additionally, the orthodontic programs that did not use VSP showed higher unsatisfied surgical outcomes than the programs that used VSP. Moreover, there were discrepancies between orthodontic and OMFS programs regarding the perceived level of collaboration of each other on the surgical planning for the patients.

Conclusion

There were discrepancies between orthodontic and OMFS programs regarding the utilization of VSP, treatment outcomes satisfaction, and perceived level of collaboration on surgical planning for the patients.
Acute Hepatitis Related to Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3f Infection in Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Leidiane B. , Reche Luciana A. , Nastri Ana C. de Seixas Santos , Malta Fernanda de Mello , Amgarten Deyvid E. , Casadio Luciana V. B. , Gonzalez Mario P. , Ono Suzane K. , Mendes‐Correa Maria C. , Carrilho Flair J. , Pinho João R. R. , Gomes‐Gouvêa Michele S.
Published: November 2024

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important causative agent of acute hepatitis (AH). Despite reports of human infection in Brazil, the investigation is not routinely conducted, even in cases of elevated liver enzymes. This study evaluated two groups: group 1—patients with acute hepatitis A (n = 44); group 2—patients with nonA‐C AH (n = 47). They were tested by enzyme immunoassay for anti‐HEV IgM/IgG and real‐time PCR for HEV RNA detection. The positive sample for HEV RNA was submitted for sequencing. The seroprevalence of anti‐HEV IgM and IgG in group 1 was 4% (2/44) and 14.5% (7/44), respectively. Viral RNA was not detected in any sample. In group 2, the anti‐HEV IgM positivity was 4.3% (2/47), and IgG 14.9% (7/47). RNA was detectable in one case, which presented a viral load of 222.4 IU/μL and positive anti‐HEV IgM/IgG. In the phylogenetic analysis, the genotype identified was HEV‐3f. These results indicate that HEV infection should be considered a possible diagnosis in cases of non‐A–C AH. The patient identified with acute hepatitis E had recently traveled to the Northeast region of Brazil (Garanhuns city in Pernambuco state), where there are reports of high HEV seroprevalence among pigs. The close phylogenetic relationship observed between the sequence characterized in this study and strains isolated from pigs in nearby cities where the patient went suggested a possible zoonotic transmission in this region. This study highlights the importance of expanding studies and improving surveillance to understand better and manage HEV infections nationwide.
Financial Compensation of Academic Otolaryngologists in the United States: Trends and Distribution
Authors: Shah Rema , Tyagi Sidharth , Futela Dheeman , Malhotra Ajay , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess recent trends in financial compensation in the field of academic otolaryngology, and distribution based on rank, sex, race/ethnicity, and geographical regions in academic medical centers.

Methods

The AAMC Faculty Salary Survey was used, which collects information for full‐time faculty at US academic centers. Financial compensation data for otolaryngology faculty with MD or equivalent degree were collected from 2017 to 2023, stratified by rank, gender, race/ethnicity, and geographical region.

Results

The AAMC Faculty Salary Survey data for 2023 included responses for 1641 faculty members from academic otolaryngology departments. Median faculty compensation increased on an average 0.58%–2.81% per year from 2017 to 2023, with the greatest increase at the senior ranks and smaller increases at the Instructor rank. Male faculty members were consistently compensated more than women at all ranks throughout the study period, and the salary gap increased at the higher academic ranks. Black/African American faculty had a lower median compensation compared to White faculty at all ranks. Faculty members in the northeast region had the highest median compensation at all ranks.

Conclusion

This study summarizes the trends of otolaryngology faculty compensation and shows persistent salary inequities at academic medical centers in the United States.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 2024
Antimicrobial Peptide SAAP‐148‐Functionalized Hydrogels from Photocrosslinkable Polymers with Broad Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Atif Muhammad , Babuççu Gizem , Riool Martijn , Zaat Sebastian , Jonas Ulrich
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics for treating skin wound infections. Nonetheless, their short half‐life in biological environments restricts clinical applicability. Covalent immobilization of AMPs onto suitable substrates offers a comprehensive solution, creating contact‐killing surfaces with long‐term functionality. Here, a copolymer of poly[(hydroxy ethyl acrylamide)‐co‐(4‐benzophenone acrylamide)‐co‐(pentafluorophenyl acrylate)‐co‐(ECOSURF EH‐3 acrylate)], in short poly(HEAAm‐co‐BPAAm‐co‐PFPA‐co‐EH3A), is synthesized by free radical polymerization. Subsequent modification of active ester groups with the amine groups of SAAP‐148, results in a copolymer, that is non‐cytotoxic to human lung fibroblasts. UV photocrosslinking of the benzophenone units yields a polymer network that forms a hydrogel after swelling with aqueous medium. Both the SAAP‐148‐modified polymer in solution and the photocrosslinked hydrogels show good antimicrobial activity against strains of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii, including multidrug‐resistant strains, frequently found in wound infections. The covalent attachment of SAAP‐148 prevents leaching, ensuring sustained antimicrobial activity for at least 48 h in diluted human blood plasma and 14 days in PBS. This prolonged retention of antimicrobial activity in human blood plasma significantly enhances its clinical potential. Overall, this study shows the potential of the AMP‐functionalized photocrosslinkable polymer as antimicrobial wound dressings, providing an effective alternative to antibiotics.
Looking Inside of the Intestinal Permeability Regulation by Protein‐Derivatives from Bovine Milk
Authors: Guzmán‐Mejía Fabiola , Molotla‐Torres Daniel Efrain , Godínez‐Victoria Marycarmen , Valdes‐Hilarios Ximena , Sánchez‐Miranda Elizabeth , Oros‐Pantoja Rigoberto , Drago‐Serrano Maria Elisa
Published: November 2024

The prime function of the epithelium is to regulate the intestinal permeability; the latter is a quantitative parameter that refers to the measurement of the rate of passage of solutes through the epithelial monolayer. Function of epithelial monolayer depends on the expression of protein complexes known as tight junction proteins; whose function and expression can be disrupted under conditions of inflammation including irritable bowel disease (IBD), intestinal infections, and high‐fat diets, among others. This manuscript is focused to outline the effects of bovine milk protein derivatives on the intestinal permeability addressed mostly in animal models in which the intestinal barrier is disrupted. At present, the properties of bovine milk protein derivatives on intestinal permeability have been scarcely documented in humans, but evidence raised from clinical trials provides promising findings of potential application of colostrum to control of the intestinal permeability in critically ill patients, users of non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drugs, like athletes and militia members.