bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustaining the best and the brightest: empowering new early childhood teachers through mentoring
Authors: Andrews Rebecca , Hadley Fay , Waniganayake Manjula , Hay Iain , Jones Catherine , Liang Xinyun Meg
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Retention of early childhood teachers in Australia is a critical issue, particularly for new teachers. The demanding nature of new teachers’ everyday work and high rates of stress and burnout have resulted in teachers leaving the sector. By designing a formal mentoring project, our aim was to support teachers to stay and flourish as respected professionals. This paper presents findings from the perspective of the mentees – new teachers in their first five years of employment in the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

We designed and offered a two-phase multi-layered mentoring project to 145 new teachers (mentees) matched with 51 experienced teachers (mentors). It began with a mentor training course implemented by three experienced early childhood education academics and utilised a community of practice approach (Lave and Wenger, 1991). Data collected throughout the project included a pre- and post-survey and a needs satisfaction and frustration scale.

Findings

Analysis of survey data shows that mentee new teachers gained a better understanding of their role and built connections with peers and leaders. Survey data also demonstrates that effective mentoring can successfully contribute to addressing workforce challenges faced by early childhood teachers.

Originality/value

The project makes an original contribution through the design, implementation and evaluation of an innovative online mentoring project for teachers employed across the state of New South Wales, Australia.
How does supplier digitalization improve customer resource allocation efficiency? The role of supply chain entrainment
Authors: Ding Qian , Chen Jinyu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Customer resource allocation efficiency (RAE) refers to the ability of customers to use, allocate and manage their available resource inputs to produce valuable outputs. This study draws on organizational entrainment theory (OET) to examine how the implementation of supplier digitalization affects customer RAE through supply chain entrainment.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on supplier and customer data disclosed by Chinese A-share listed firms from 2009 to 2022, this study uses fixed effects panel data models to empirically examine the impact of supplier digitalization on customer RAE and the mechanistic role of supply chain entrainment.

Findings

The results show that supplier digitalization significantly increases customer RAE. It improves RAE by influencing the three dimensions of supply chain entrainment (the bullwhip effect, inventory management coordination and risk management coordination).

Practical implications

This study provides important insights into how managers can adapt the external digital environments and maintain synchronous operations with their supply partners. Our findings demonstrate how managers can fully leverage the advantages of digitalization of their suppliers to improve their own RAE through supply chain entrainment strategies.

Originality/value

This study introduces the concept of supply chain entrainment to reveal how firms optimize their own resource allocation strategies and achieve efficient operations. Our research enriches the understanding of supply chain governance in the digital age and contributes to the literature on supply chain digitalization.
International trade war - Spice Road against Silk Road
Authors: Oh Joon Seok
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the international political economy of Korea and its effects due to geopolitical tension between China and the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Economic war between China and the USA has prolonged longer than expected. Aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, reforming the supply chain has been the centre of economic tension between China and the USA. Quite recently, with the rapid expansion of Chinese e-commerce platforms, distribution channels come upon a new economic tension between the two. And now is the time to pivot its pattern of conflict from competition into cooperation. In this end, economic diplomacy could be a useful means to give a signal of cooperation. From the view of economic diplomacy, this paper tries to analyse the projected transition of economic war between China and the USA with its implication on the trade policy of Korea.

Findings

As an implementation of economic diplomacy, China suggested the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), enhancing trade logistics among related countries to gain competitiveness. In 2023, the Biden administration suggested the India-Middle East and Europe Economic Corridor as a counter to BRI, which will be a threshold for changing trade policy from economic war into economic diplomacy. As a result, it is expected China and the USA will expand their economic diplomacy in a way to promote economic cooperation among allied states, while the distribution channel war would continue to accelerate the economic tension between China and the USA. Korea has to prepare for and provide measures handling this geopolitical location in its trade policy or economic diplomacy.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the awareness and understanding of trade environments from the perspective of economic diplomacy.
Financial market structure and capital controls in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bondzie Afful Kofi , Gwatidzo Tendai , Mlilo Mthokozisi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of capital controls on financial market structure in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This is especially relevant as the former restrictions are relatively common on the sub-continent. At the same time, the sub-region’s financial markets are highly bank-based and focused on the short term, with stock markets being illiquid and stunted.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve its research objectives, the study posits an original model and uses comparative statics to analyze the relation between the aforestated phenomena in a representative SSA economy. Key hypothesized conclusions derived therefrom are tested using panel econometrics.

Findings

The comparative static analysis illustrates that capital controls favor banks, making them monopolistic and inefficient. This is confirmed by the empirical investigation, as the said market restriction skews financial market structure towards a bank-dominated system.

Research limitations/implications

The study limits itself to capital controls and their effects on financial market structure. It does not particularly investigate the influence of different types of these restrictions. Specifically, it dichotomizes the influence of the examined controls on bank and stock markets.

Practical implications

The dissimilar influence of capital controls on banks relative to stock markets is critical for decision and policymakers. This paper highlights that capital controls may have unintended adverse effects on domestic financial markets. Also, they may not be the most appropriate policy to deepen markets and enhance domestic resource retention. There is, consequently, a need to determine fitting policies that attract rather than repel financial flows. Furthermore, capital controls may engender rather than address macroeconomic misalignment.

Social implications

As a social imperative, it is necessary to analyze SSA’s framework of capital restrictions to better understand how they distort market incentives and mechanisms. This would help identify adverse effects that retard social development.

Originality/value

This study extends existing literature by developing a novel analytical framework incorporating key characteristics of SSA economies. This helps to better understand the nature of the capital controls–financial market structure relation in imperfect market conditions.
The impact of foreign direct investment on infrastructure development
Authors: Luu Hiep Ngoc , Nguyen Loan Quynh Thi , Nguyen Lan Thi Mai
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on infrastructure development, focusing on electricity, transportation and telecommunication.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs multivariate regressions on panel data from up to 165 countries over the period 1996–2015, and the instrumental variables two-stage least squares (IV-2SLS) approach to address endogeneity concerns.

Findings

The results show that FDI promotes most types of infrastructure in the recipient countries. In addition, we find that greenfield investments generally contribute toward infrastructure development, while cross-border M&As exhibit only a little developmental impact and may even exert a negative influence on some infrastructure types. Finally, we find that FDIs have a larger developmental impact on developing nations during the period from 1996 to 2015.

Practical implications

Our findings suggest that, while policies which aim to attract further FDI may yield desirable developmental outcomes, a closer look at particular FDI strategies is required when implementing such policies to ensure a sustainable FDI-development nexus.

Originality/value

This study is among the most comprehensive studies in terms of both the time period and the number of countries analyzed, offering a critical examination of the impact of FDI on infrastructure development. At the same time, by decomposing total FDI into its two major strategies (i.e. greenfield investment and cross-border M&As), we also join the line of work that examines the mechanisms through which FDI affects the development of recipient countries. Finally, it highlights that FDI significantly impacts developing nations, particularly in infrastructure projects affected by corruption. Conversely, in developed countries, FDI may hinder domestic investment and long-term growth.
Dry promotions and positive psychology: striking a balance for employee well-being
Authors: Sen Sujoy , Singh Kuldeep
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We aim to address the evolving phenomenon of dry promotions and its impact on employee well-being in organizations. Dry promotion, its possible effects on employee well-being and some strategies to mitigate its adverse consequences are presented as a viewpoint paper.

Design/methodology/approach

The arguments in this viewpoint are built on theoretical insights drawn from various organizational theories, such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Herzberg’s two-factor theory and self-determination theory. However, the main line of thought revolves around positive psychology theory, which assesses the paper’s existing literature, news articles and case studies to discuss the emerging phenomenon concisely.

Findings

Dry promotion is often characterized by job title upgrades without corresponding pay increases. While dry promotion may satisfy higher-level needs for some individuals, they usually neglect lower-level needs, leading to stress and work-life imbalance, ultimately causing detrimental effects on employee well-being. Strategies at individual, group and organizational levels are crucial to navigate this phenomenon and its consequences. We argue that fair communication, supportive workplace culture and providing avenues for skill enhancement curtail the adverse effects of dry promotion on employee well-being. In addition, a culture fostering mindfulness can help employees navigate the challenges of increased responsibilities without proportional financial rewards.

Practical implications

Our study can provide at least some guidance on how to navigate through the phenomenon of dry promotions.

Originality/value

Our paper contributes to the scant literature on dry promotions by assessing the likely effects of dry promotions on employee well-being and suggesting practical strategies to deal with it.
Continued innovation beyond COVID-19 crisis: toward mitigating the challenges in the tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Ramachandran Sridar , Ugokwe Chizoba Kingsley , Latiff Khairunnisak , Ibrahim Mohd Romzee
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to provide insights into service innovation (SI) during the COVID-19 crisis and its potential impact on tourism development in the medium-to-long term. The pandemic had a devastating effect on the industry, requiring immediate mitigation. It is yet to fully establish the impact of SI in the face of the COVID-19 volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA). This study discusses the potential link between SI and COVID-19 crisis mitigation and offers recommendations for tourism recovery.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper synthesizes empirical evidence on post-crisis tourism SI using a theory-based general literature review approach.

Findings

COVID-19 crisis spun various forms of SI, which emerged as a conventional solution to crisis prevention, encompassing the management of crisis-time competitiveness, revenue deficits and risk perception. However, resistance to innovative services is linked to situational conditions.

Research limitations/implications

COVID-19 is an unprecedented crisis. Therefore, this study serves as a primer for further inquiry into SI. For instance, areas such as governance in tourism innovation and consumers' inclination toward innovation-driven services are underexplored.

Practical implications

SI acts as a situational facilitator, but its characteristics can impede or facilitate adoption. Moreover, the irrelevance of innovations in some environments is evidenced. Thus, practitioners must adopt a responsive learning approach in SI adoption. To mitigate the COVID-19 impacts, reconfiguration in SI, recovery marketing strategy, knowledge gap and governance will be critical interventions.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first comprehensive discussions on the potential role of SI in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on the THI.
Amplitude versus offset attribute inversion method for characterizing gas hydrate: Insights from high resolution seismic imaging and drilling results in the Shenhu area, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Zeng Fanxiang , Jiang Wenbin , Meng Dajiang , Yan Sheng
Published: November 2024

Amplitude versus offset attribute inversion primarily utilizes the change in amplitude with offset to extract lithologic information of the reservoir. We performed high resolution imaging using three‐dimensional seismic data and simulated four different models of gas hydrate and free gas to optimize the selection of sensitive attributes for gas hydrate characterization. We optimized the selection of sensitive attributes for gas hydrate characterization. Our research identified the gradient parameter G as a highly sensitive attribute for characterizing gas hydrate reservoirs. By comparing theoretical models with drilling site data, we predicted the saturation variations of gas hydrate based on the amplitude of G and summarized the amplitude versus offset characteristics and sensitive attributes of gas hydrate at different saturation levels. The results offer valuable insights for identification of gas hydrate in seismic data and provide a reference for their characterization.
The Past or a Foreign Country? Should the Conservatives Look to Churchill or Australia After the 2024 General Election?
Authors: Kowol Kit
Published: November 2024

Following its defeat at the 2024 general election, the Conservative Party will likely look for lessons either in its past—specifically its successful response to Labour's landslide victory in 1945—or from sister parties overseas, notably the Australian Liberal Party. The article argues that Britain and the Conservative Party have changed so fundamentally since the end of the World War Two—and indeed since 1997—to make any comparison meaningless. Highlighting the growing ‘Australianisation’ of British and especially Tory politics in the last three decades, it suggests instead that the Conservative Party would be better looking ‘down under’ for a guide on how to respond, even though critical differences remain between the two countries.
Complications during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation transfer in Argentina: A multicenter observational study
Authors: Carrizo Nestor , Avila Rafael , Huespe Ivan , Perez Aracelly , Nuñez Renzo , Bauque Susana , Casabella Christian , Norese Mariano , Ivulich Daniel , Monzon Veronica , Pálizas Fernando , Villarroel Sonia
Published: November 2024

Background

There is a lack of documented cases regarding complications during ECMO transfer in middle‐income countries. Using portable ECMO devices facilitates patient transport but entails significantly higher costs, necessitating evidence of their practical utility. This study aims to describe complications during ECMO transfer in Argentina and to compare complication rates between the integrated portable ECMO and non‐portable ECMO systems.

Methods

A multicenter observational retrospective study was conducted across four high‐complexity hospitals in Argentina. Patients over 18 years old who underwent ECMO transfer between January 2017 and July 2023 were included. Complications were classified based on the Ericsson severity classification, a widely accepted system that categorizes complications based on their severity and the need for immediate organ support. The effect of the ECMO systems (portable and non‐portable ECMO system) on complication rates was assessed using logistic regression weighted by inverse probability weighting (IPWT) analysis after propensity score assessment to adjust for confounders.

Results

The study included 65 patients who were transferred for ECMO. Complications occurred in 40% (95%CI: 28%, 52%; n=26) of transfers, with grade 2 complications being the most prevalent at 20% (95%CI 11%, 32%; n=13). Integrated portable ECMO systems were associated with fewer complications during ECMO transfer, showing a crude OR of 0.25 (95%CI 0.08, 0.75), and after adjustment by IPWT, an OR of 0.27 (95%CI 0.08, 0.93).

Conclusions

ECMO transfers in middle‐income countries exhibit complication rates similar to those in high‐income countries. Our study found fewer complications in transfers using integrated portable ECMO systems and those involving distances exceeding 100 km. These findings suggest that the use of portable ECMO systems, despite their higher costs, may be beneficial in reducing complications during patient transport in middle‐income countries.
Unlocking flourishing at workplace: An integrative review and framework
Authors: Verma Rachna , Sekar Srinivasan , Mukhopadhyay Susmita
Published: November 2024

The concept of flourishing has garnered interdisciplinary attention, particularly within the realm of workplace research, given its relevance to individuals' daily lives. However, despite its growing importance, defining and measuring workplace flourishing remains challenging, often due to the adoption of generic life‐domain perspectives. This review addresses these challenges by synthesizing literature from work and life domains. We meticulously analyze 118 pertinent articles through an integrative review methodology, uncovering gaps in conceptualization, measurement, determinants, and outcomes of workplace flourishing. Our review introduces a new conceptual lens, focusing on the role of personal project pursuits in shaping flourishing. We also clarify the distinction between flourishing and thriving, providing much‐needed conceptual clarity. Additionally, the review presents an integrative framework that synthesizes determinants and outcomes of flourishing, offering a multitude of avenues for future exploration.
Butterfly community dynamics in a monoculture‐dominated agricultural landscape
Authors: Vujanović Dušanka , Arok Maja , Veselić Sanja , Skendžić Tea , Andrić Andrijana , Đorđević Aleksandra , Vujić Ante
Published: November 2024

Understanding biodiversity dynamics in agricultural landscapes is essential for promoting sustainable land use and conserving wildlife.

We examined butterfly communities in a monoculture‐dominated landscape, comparing remnant grassland sites surrounded by agricultural land (AGR), grasslands (GR), and forests (FOR). Data were collected from 30 sites across these three categories. We used non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) to assess community composition, rank abundance curves for community structure, and Hill numbers for alpha diversity. Generalised additive models (GAMs) identified key drivers of rare species richness and the abundance of the most common species, Coenonympha pamphilus.

Results showed a few dominant species, with most having low abundances. Species richness was similar across all site categories, but differences in evenness and species dominance highlighted variations in community structure. GR and FOR sites had higher numbers of both rare and abundant species, indicating a more balanced distribution compared to AGR sites. NMDS revealed significant differences in composition, especially between FOR and AGR. The GAM results showed that the combination of agricultural land and forest cover enhances rare species richness, while agricultural cover alone had a negative impact. Even for the most common species C. pamphilus, high agricultural cover negatively impacts its population but shifts positively when combined with greater vegetation height in adjacent grasslands.

These findings highlight the critical role of forest habitats within monoculture‐dominated landscapes in enhancing butterfly community diversity and stability. The adaptability of butterfly species to agricultural landscapes is limited to a small number of species and only up to a certain extent.
Antioxidant properties of the soluble carotenoprotein AstaP and its feasibility for retinal protection against oxidative stress
Authors: Lunegova Daria A. , Gvozdev Danil A. , Senin Ivan I. , Gudkova Victoria R. , Sidorenko Svetlana V. , Tiulina Veronika V. , Shebardina Natalia G. , Yakovleva Marina A. , Feldman Tatiana B. , Ramonova Alla A. , Moysenovich Anastasia M. , Semenov Alexey N. , Zernii Evgeni Yu. , Maksimov Eugene G. , Sluchanko Nikolai N. , Kirpichnikov Mikhail P. , Ostrovsky Mikhail A.
Published: November 2024

Photodamage to the outer segments of photoreceptor cells and their impaired utilization by retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells contribute to the development of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) leading to blindness. Degeneration of photoreceptor cells and RPE cells is triggered by reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by photochemical reactions involving bisretinoids, by‐products of the visual cycle, which accumulate in photoreceptor discs and lipofuscin granules of RPE. Carotenoids, natural antioxidants with high potential efficacy against a wide range of ROS, may protect against the cytotoxic properties of lipofuscin. To solve the problem of high hydrophobicity of carotenoids and increase their bioaccessibility, specialized proteins can ensure their targeted delivery to the affected tissues. In this study, we present new capabilities of the recombinant water‐soluble protein AstaP from Coelastrella astaxanthina Ki‐4 (Scenedesmaceae) for protein‐mediated carotenoid delivery and demonstrate how zeaxanthin delivery suppresses oxidative stress in a lipofuscin‐enriched model of photoreceptor and pigment epithelium cells. AstaP in complex with zeaxanthin can effectively scavenge various ROS (singlet oxygen, free radical cations, hydrogen peroxide) previously reported to be generated in AMD. In addition, we explore the potential of optimizing the structure of AstaP to enhance its thermal stability and resistance to proteolytic activity in the ocular media. This optimization aims to maximize the prevention of retinal degenerative changes in AMD.
Generation of Monosomy 21q Human iPS Cells by CRISPR/Cas9‐Mediated Interstitial Megabase Deletion
Authors: Egawa Masaya , Uno Narumi , Komazaki Rina , Ohkame Yusuke , Yamazaki Kyotaro , Yoshimatsu Chihiro , Ishizu Yuki , Okano Yusaku , Miyamoto Hitomaru , Osaki Mitsuhiko , Suzuki Teruhiko , Hosomichi Kazuyoshi , Aizawa Yasunori , Kazuki Yasuhiro , Tomizuka Kazuma
Published: November 2024

Missing an entire chromosome or chromosome arm in normal diploid cells has a deleterious impact on cell viability, which may contribute to the development of specific birth defects. Nevertheless, the effects of chromosome loss in human cells have remained unexplored due to the lack of suitable model systems. Here, we developed an efficient, selection‐free approach to generate partial monosomy in human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The introduction of Cas9 proteins and a pair of gRNAs induces over megabase‐sized interstitial chromosomal deletions. Using human chromosome 21 (HSA21) as a model, partial monosomy 21q (PM21q) iPSC lines with deletions ranging from 4.5 to 27.9 Mb were isolated. A 33.6 Mb deletion, encompassing all protein‐coding genes on 21q, was also achieved, establishing the first 21q monosomy human iPSC line. Transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed that the abundances of mRNA and protein encoded by the majority of genes in the monosomic regions are half of the diploid expression level, indicating an absence of dosage compensation. The ability to generate customized partial monosomy cell lines on an isogenic, karyotypically normal background should facilitate the gain of novel insights into the impact of chromosome loss on cellular fitness.
Can a 62‐million‐year‐old ‘hyperthermal’ event hold the clues to our uncertain future climate?
Authors: Barnet James
Published: November 2024

Climate change has been rising to an ever‐increasing prominence in the news headlines in recent years, as local and global temperature records are obliterated, and extreme weather events occur with increasing frequency and severity. Preparing for an uncertain future climate represents one of the biggest challenges humans have ever faced. Here, I take you back 62 million years ago (Ma) to a poorly studied short‐lived global warming event known as the Latest Danian Event (LDE), which may represent a good analogue for current human‐induced climate change. I discuss evidence for changes in temperature and pH of the oceans during the LDE, using novel geochemical proxies on the calcite shells of zooplankton to prove that the LDE was the first global ‘hyperthermal’ event of the Cenozoic. I also delve into the potential forcing mechanisms behind the event, outlining the critical outstanding questions which palaeoclimatologists are yet to answer. Most importantly, I highlight the lessons we can learn from the LDE about our future climate, allowing us to better plan, prepare and adapt.
Building resilience in nursing through strategic policy interventions
Authors: Muhunthan Mathumesa , Olalia Mary Anne , Neretljak Sanja , Ezekiel Suzanne , Metersky Kateryna
Published: November 2024

In the context of a global nursing shortage, this paper explores the concept of resilience within the nursing profession, highlighting its implications for practice and policy on an international level. Although resilience is a vital concept for coping with stressors, we argue that placing the burden of resilience on individual nurses may obscure systemic issues that contribute to burnout and attrition. Resilience in nursing is a multifaceted concept that should be examined critically. Relying heavily on individual resilience may inadvertently perpetuate systemic issues and risk internalization of blame by nurses. Upon critical analysis of recent global statistics, this paper advocates for a shift toward collective resilience strategies, specifically, nurse participation in policy‐making. This approach not only addresses immediate workforce challenges but also reinforces the essential role of the nursing profession in shaping health and social policies, ensuring sustainable healthcare systems worldwide.
The impact of health policy and organisational models on Italian hospital productivity growth
Authors: Fulgenzi Rossana , Gitto Simone
Published: November 2024

The rapid increase in healthcare costs has drawn the attention of managers and policymakers towards regulating health expenditures: many countries have implemented deep reforms to improve efficiency and productivity in the provision of health services. In Italy, the central government has introduced austerity measures, called recovery plans, to force the administrative regions to reduce healthcare deficits. In this study, we first evaluate the impact of these recovery plans on hospitals’ productivity by calculating the Malmquist productivity index using data envelopment analysis. Next, we regress the obtained productivity index and its components on a set of explanatory variables to capture the impact of the austerity measures, the moderating role of the regional organisational models, the variation in hospitals’ size and management autonomy and the capital intensity. The data used to estimate productivity were for an extensive period – from 2006 to 2018. The results could contribute to assessing the increase in the productivity of hospitals and the influence of government policies on the same.
Identification and analysis of a cell communication prognostic signature for oral squamous cell carcinoma at bulk and single‐cell levels
Authors: Zhang Xingwei , Yang Fan , Dong Chen , Li Baojun , Zhang Shuo , Jiao Xiaohui , Chen Dong
Published: November 2024

Head and neck squamous cancer (HNSC) is a heterogenous malignant tumour disease with poor prognosis and has become the current major public health concern worldwide. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the majority of HNSC. It is still in lack of comprehensive tumour immune microenvironment analysis and prognostic model development for OSCC's clinic practice. Single‐cell sequencing data analysis was conducted to identify immune cell subtypes and illustrate cell–cell interaction status in OSCC via R package ‘Seurat’, ‘Harmony’, ‘elldex’ and ‘CellChat’. Base on the bulk sequencing data, WGCNA analysis was employed to identify the CD8+ T cell related gene module. XGBoost was used to construct the gene prognostic model for OSCC. Validation sets and immunotherapy data sets were analysed to further evaluate the model's effectiveness and immunotherapy responsiveness predicting potential. siRNA was used to down regulate FCRL4 expression. Real‐time PCR and Western blot were used to validate target gene expression. The effects of FCRL4 on OSCC cells were detected by wound healing, Trans well and clone formation assays. Communication between epithelial cells and tissue stem cells may be the potential key regulators for OSCC progression. By integrating single‐cell sequencing data analysis and bulk sequencing data analysis, we constructed a novel immune‐related gene prognostic model. The model can effectively predict the prognosis and immunotherapy responsiveness of OSCC patients. In addition, the effects of FCRL4 on OSCC cells were validated. We comprehensively interpreted the immune microenvironment pattern of OSCC based on the single‐cell sequencing data and bulk sequencing data analysis. A robust immune feature‐based prognostic model was developed for the precise treatment and prognosis evaluation of OSCC.
Advancing flood susceptibility prediction: A comparative assessment and scalability analysis of machine learning algorithms via artificial intelligence in high‐risk regions of Pakistan
Authors: Waleed Mirza , Sajjad Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Flood susceptibility mapping (FSM) is crucial for effective flood risk management, particularly in flood‐prone regions like Pakistan. This study addresses the need for accurate and scalable FSM by systematically evaluating the performance of 14 machine learning (ML) models in high‐risk areas of Pakistan. The novelty lies in the comprehensive comparison of these models and the use of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques. We employed XAI to identify significant conditioning factors for flood susceptibility at both the model training and prediction stages. The models were assessed for both accuracy and scalability, with specific focus on computational efficiency. Our findings indicate that LGBM and XGBoost are the top performers in terms of accuracy, with XGBoost also excelling in scalability, achieving a prediction time of ~18 s compared to LGBM's 22 s and random forest's 31 s. The evaluation framework presented is applicable to other flood‐prone regions and highlights that LGBM is superior for accuracy‐focused applications, while XGBoost is optimal for scenarios with computational constraints. The findings of this study can assist in accurate FSM in different regions and can also assist in scaling up the analysis to a larger geographical region which could assist in better decision‐making and informed policy production for flood risk management.
Child Death and Mothers’ Subsequent Mental Health in a High‐Mortality African Community
Authors: Smith‐Greenaway Emily , Weitzman Abigail , Lungu Eric
Published: November 2024

Despite declines in child mortality rates, experiencing a child death remains a common feature of motherhood in many contemporary African populations. Yet, we lack population insights into the consequences of child death for mothers’ well‐being in the high‐mortality regions where it concentrates. Contrasting an extensive psychology literature on the severe and long‐lasting consequences of child death for parents in low‐mortality settings, a long‐standing thesis in multiple social science literature is that the normativity of child death in high‐mortality settings can lead to a numbing effect—muting parents’ reactions to child loss. Yet, select anthropological accounts challenge this thesis, arguing instead that child death can also bear notable consequences for bereaved parents in communities where it is common. This study brings population data to bear, analyzing two representative samples of women in Balaka, Malawi, to examine if child death has measurable mental health consequences for mothers, including elevated and/or worsening depressive symptoms. Further, the study explores the potential influence of children's near‐death experiences on mothers. The results offer evidence that child loss—and the ever‐present threat of it—are underappreciated drivers of women's poor mental health, and overall well‐being.
A review of optimization and decision models of prescribed burning for wildfire management
Authors: Qi Jianzhou , Zhuang Jun
Published: November 2024

Prescribed burning is an essential forest management tool that requires strategic planning to effectively address its multidimensional impacts, particularly given the influence of global climate change on fire behavior. Despite the inherent complexity in planning prescribed burns, limited efforts have been made to comprehensively identify the critical elements necessary for formulating effective models. In this work, we present a systematic review of the literature on optimization and decision models for prescribed burning, analyzing 471 academic papers published in the last 25 years. Our study identifies four main types of models: spatial‐allocation, spatial‐extent, temporal‐only, and spatial–temporal. We observe a growing number of studies on modeling prescribed burning, primarily due to the expansion in spatial‐allocation and spatial–temporal models. There is also an increase in complexity as the models consider more elements affecting prescribed burning effectiveness. We identify the essential components for optimization models, including stakeholders, decision variables, objectives, and influential factors, to enhance model practicality. The review also examines solution techniques, such as integer programming in spatial allocation, stochastic dynamic programming in probabilistic models, and multiobjective programming in balancing trade‐offs. These techniques' strengths and limitations are discussed to help researchers adapt methods to specific challenges in prescribed burning optimization. In addition, we investigate general assumptions in the models and challenges in relaxation to enhance practicality. Lastly, we propose future research to develop more comprehensive models incorporating dynamic fire behaviors, stakeholder preferences, and long‐term impacts. Enhancing these models' accuracy and applicability will enable decision‐makers to better manage wildfire treatment outcomes.
Compost‐induced changes in microbial community reinforce the ecosystem functioning of sandy loam soil in China
Authors: Guo Kangli , Li Guihua , Wu Pengjie , Yue Yanan , Liu Xiao , Lv Zuopeng , Zhang Jianfeng
Published: November 2024

In China, the extensive distribution of sandy loam soils, which are often low in fertility, highlights the need for effective remediation strategies. Compost application has emerged as a promising approach for improving soil health and supporting ecological restoration. However, the relationship between compost‐induced soil properties and microbial functioning remains elusive. We examined the intricate relationships among soil properties, microbial communities, and organic matter transformations in response to varying compost inputs (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 t compost hm−2), examining how each level influenced soil dynamics and microbial interactions. The gradient compost input significantly decreased the bacterial richness but increased bacterial cohesion and community stability. The low‐abundant taxa (relative abundance <0.1%) exhibited a sensitive response to varying levels of compost input along the gradient. Two fundamental soil properties, dissolved organic nitrogen and available potassium, demonstrated significant correlations with two core species, Spirillospora and Saccharomonospora (p < .01). The gradient compost input had a notable impact on the abundant Deinococcota, which was closely associated with the reduction of organic nitrogen. Moreover, the gradient compost input stimulated rare taxa to reply changes of soil microenvironment, enhanced organic carbon and nitrogen transformation via functional microbial groups, strengthened the interplay among microbes and soil properties. Importantly, soil treated with 30 t compost hm−2 exhibited the most resilient bacterial community and soil functioning, suggesting that 30 t compost hm−2 might be the optimal input quantity for remediating sandy loam soil. These findings highlight that the gradient compost input reinforces the relation between microbes and C‐/N‐metabolisms, and establish more stable microbial interconnections thus enhancing functional gains.
Influence of typical soil minerals on ureolytic bacteria‐induced carbonate precipitation
Authors: Geng Yuanyuan , Wang Shumin , Tang Lingyi , Shen Zhengtao
Published: November 2024

Microbial‐induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) has been widely applied in soil remediation, stabilization and soil carbon storage. This study investigated the effects of different soil minerals on carbonate production during MICP. Aqueous sorption experiments, along with chemical and microstructural analyses, were conducted to monitor the progress and performance of MICP. Montmorillonite significantly enhanced carbonate production, while quartz, kaolinite and goethite adsorbed free Ca2+ from the solution, slowing the formation of calcium carbonate without affecting the overall carbonate yield. Calcite and vaterite were identified as the primary carbonate phases, with vaterite dominating (accounting for ~90% of the crystalline calcium carbonate). However, montmorillonite substantially increased the proportion of calcite (from 9% to 52%). The enhancement may be attributed to the lower Ca2+ adsorption capacity of montmorillonite, which helps maintain sufficient Ca2+ in solution and promote direct calcite precipitation. Additionally, interactions between montmorillonite and ureolytic bacteria may also protect bacteria from being co‐precipitated with carbonate minerals. Soil minerals were also found to accelerate the urease activity of ureolytic bacteria, with goethite having the strongest effect. Since carbonate was not a limiting factor in the experiment, goethite had no significant impacts on carbonate yield. This study sheds light on the potential application of MICP under different soil mineral conditions.
Adding hydroxyurea to chronic transfusion therapy for sickle cell anemia reduces transfusion burden
Authors: Nickel Robert Sheppard , Margulies Stefanie , Panchapakesan Karuna , Chorvinsky Elizabeth , Nino Gustavo , Gierdalski Marcin , Bost James , Luban Naomi L. C. , Webb Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is an established therapy to prevent stroke in patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA). It is unclear if adding daily hydroxyurea treatment to chronic transfusion is beneficial.

Study Design and Methods

We conducted a phase 2 clinical trial (NCT03644953) investigating the addition of dose‐escalated hydroxyurea to chronic transfusion for patients with SCA receiving simple chronic transfusion for stroke prevention. Simple chronic transfusion therapy was administered as per the same protocol before and after hydroxyurea treatment in which the volume transfused was dependent on the pretransfusion hemoglobin (Hb).

Results

A total of 14 participants enrolled with nine completing one year of combination hydroxyurea and transfusion (HAT) therapy after reaching hydroxyurea target dose. No participant who discontinued the study prematurely had a serious adverse event attributed to HAT. Among the nine participants who completed the study, eight participants achieved a reduction in RBC transfusion volume with a median reduction of −19.4 mL/kg/year (interquartile range −31.8, −2.8 mL/kg/year), p = .02, when comparing pre‐ and post‐HAT time periods. With the addition of hydroxyurea participants had a significant increase in pretransfusion Hb S% but this was balanced by an increased Hb F% and decreased lactate dehydrogenase. One participant developed a pretransfusion Hb >11 g/dL and Hb S > 45% that required holding hydroxyurea and changing to partial manual exchange transfusions. No patient had evidence of cerebrovascular disease progression.

Discussion

Hydroxyurea added to chronic transfusion therapy for patients with SCA is feasible and decreases RBC transfusion volume requirements.
Pediatric blood transfusions in Colombia: Dissecting adverse reaction trends and age dynamics
Authors: Bermúdez‐Forero María‐Isabel , Anzola‐Samudio Diego‐Alexander , García‐Otálora Michel‐Andrés
Published: November 2024

Background

Adverse transfusion reactions (ATRs) represent undesired responses in patients. Different reports indicate that rates of ATRs are 1.3–2.6 times higher in pediatric populations compared with adults. The aim of this study was to investigate whether similar trends are observed within the pediatric population in Colombia.

Study Design and Methods

This retrospective study, conducted from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022, investigated transfusion occurrences and ATRs. Data were collected from the National Hemovigilance Information System. ATRs were reported by medical personnel using standardized forms following guidelines set by the International Society of Blood Transfusion.

Results

The study included 2,097,179 patients receiving 6,637,363 transfusions, with 6830 ATRs. In comparison with adult transfusions, pediatric transfusions exhibit a male bias, a higher rate of ATRs per 10,000 transfused patients (79.4 vs. 27.7), a greater prevalence of allergic reactions and a lower incidence of febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs). The rate of ATRs varied across age groups: 17.1 for those aged 0–1 year, 120.5 for individuals aged 2–14 years, 42.5 for people aged 15–65 years, and 24.4 for those over 65 years. Among pediatric patients, 688 of 1126 allergic reactions were linked to platelet transfusions. Platelets obtained via apheresis had a higher ATR rate compared with those from the buffy coat method (OR: 1.44), while in adults, 960 of 3002 allergic reactions were attributed to platelet transfusions, with higher ATR rates for apheresis platelets compared with buffy coat platelets (OR: 1.41).

Conclusion

ATRs in the Colombian pediatric population were three times higher than adults.
Context‐dependent orientation discontinuity encoding by gamma rhythms in mouse primary visual cortex
Authors: Liao Baitao , Gong Qiang , Sun Xiaxin , Liu Haolun , Deng Haoran , Cui Yan , Yu Shuang , Yang Xiaotong , Guo Daqing , Xia Yang , Yao Dezhong , Chen Ke
Published: November 2024

Through the modulation of its surround, an identical visual stimulus can be perceived as more or less salient, allowing it to either stand out or seamlessly integrate with the rest of the visual scene. Gamma rhythms are associated with processing stimulus features across extensive areas of the visual field. Consistent with this concept, the magnitude of visually induced gamma rhythm depends on how well stimulus features aligned both within and outside the classical receptive field (CRF) at the recording site. However, there still exists some uncertainty regarding the encoding of context‐modulated orientation discontinuity by gamma rhythms. To address this concern, we conducted extracellular recordings in layers II/III and IV of area V1 using lightly anaesthetized mice to investigate the gamma tuning for stimuli with orientation discontinuity. Our study revealed that gamma rhythms exhibit a preference for stimuli with orientation discontinuity similar to the spiking responses observed in V1, which contradicts the findings of previous studies. Furthermore, the gamma tuning of discontinuous orientations exhibits a moderate correlation with spike tuning and a positive correlation with the strength of surround suppression. Therefore, our study suggests a close association between gamma tuning and nearby spiking tuning; additionally, it highlights the connection between the encoding of visual features by gamma rhythms and functional architecture, as well as neural signal integration.

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Key points

Visual context modulates the gamma rhythms in the primary visual cortex.

Discontinuous orientation elicits significantly enhanced gamma rhythms compared to the iso‐orientation stimulus.

The gamma tuning of discontinuous orientations exhibits a moderate correlation with spike tuning.

Gamma tuning of orientation discontinuity exhibits a positive correlation with the strength of surround suppression.