bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing the theory of the firm under price and background risk
Authors: Bonilla Claudio A. , Sabat Jorge , Vergara Marcos
Published: August 2024

A generalized version of the classical model of the firm under risk is proposed in order evaluate the effects of an increase in price risk on a firm's production choices where background risk is present. It is shown theoretically that in this setting, these effects are ambiguous. This purely analytical result is then tested empirically using survey data on manufacturing firms in Chile. The results indicate that an increase in price risk induces greater production levels across the entire sample, thus revealing the presence of a precautionary effect. When the sample is divided on the basis of firm size, however, evidence of significant heterogeneous effects is found. While larger firms exhibit a precautionary effect, smaller firms display a strong substitution effect that prompts them to reduce output levels.
Vocal changes as indicators of pain in harbor seal pups (Phoca vitulina)
Authors: MacRae Amelia Mari , Makowska I. Joanna , Fraser David
Published: August 2024

Vocalizations are potential indicators of pain in animals. We recorded and analyzed spectrographically the vocalizations of harbor seal pups (Phoca vitulina) before, during, and after the routine procedures of flipper tagging and microchipping prior to release from a rehabilitation facility in British Columbia, Canada. It is standard practice for these procedures to be done without analgesia. In Experiment 1, we compared vocalizations before and after the procedures (n = 21); in Experiment 2, we compared vocalizations in response to real and sham procedures (n = 10). In Experiment 1, seals produced more vocalizations, and peak frequency was higher, after tagging and after microchipping. In Experiment 2, seals also produced more vocalizations after real but not after sham tagging and microchipping. The average peak frequency was higher after each procedure, but not after each sham procedure. These results suggest that an increase in the number and peak frequency of vocalizations are indicators of pain in seal pups. The results also suggest that analgesia, when feasible, should be considered for harbor seal pups undergoing routine flipper tagging and microchipping.
Pouzolzia friisii (Urticaceae, Boehmerieae), a new species from north‐east India
Authors: Gupta Amit , Ahmad Mairaj , Wagh Vijay Vishnu
Published: August 2024

Based on a collection housed at LWG (Herbarium of CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow, India), collected by Singh et al. on 25 June 2017 from Nagaland state of India, Pouzolzia friisii A.Gupta & V.Wagh sp. nov. (Urticaceae) is described and illustrated. The species resembles Pouzolzia sanguinea var. fulgens, P. niveotomentossa and P. australis in its serrated leaf margins and the indumentum on the abaxial leaf surface however, P. friisii is quite distinct in its grayish or pale yellowish indumentum, 4‐merous sessile male flowers and densely pubescent fruiting perianths without wings and ribs. A detailed description, illustration, distribution map, and information on ecology, as well as phenology are presented.
Cannabis use patterns and association with hyperemesis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Hasler William L. , Alshaarawy Omayma , Venkatesan Thangam
Published: August 2024

Background

Cannabis use in the general population is prevalent and is rising because of increased acceptance of its use, legalization in most US states, and perceived health benefits. Cannabis product potency has dramatically increased with higher delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol content. Cannabis has documented antiemetic properties and cannabinoid pharmaceuticals are used in disorders like chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting.

Purpose

Forty to eighty percent of cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) patients use cannabis products, which reportedly reduce stress as well as nausea and vomiting. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) has a presentation similar to CVS, but is associated with longstanding, high dose cannabis use, and is thought to be relieved by sustained cannabis abstinence. Most CHS patients have used cannabis on a daily or near‐daily basis for more than 2 years. Compulsive hot‐water bathing behaviors are reported by most CHS patients, but are not specific for this disorder as they are also noted by about half of CVS patients. Episodic vomiting associated with cannabis use contributes to extensive health resource use, including emergency department visits and inpatient hospitalizations, and impacts patients and their families negatively. Treatment for CHS overlaps with CVS although cannabis abstinence remains the cornerstone of its management. Challenges associated with cannabis use cessation in CHS include patient skepticism of the role of cannabis as a cause of symptoms, perceived benefits of cannabis, and a lack of other effective therapies. In this review, we highlight cannabis use patterns in the US and discuss diagnosis and management of CHS and gaps in knowledge about this disorder.
Where you are matters: Network position, designed network, and central government agency termination
Authors: Ma Liang , Liu Weixing , Chen Sicheng , Christensen Tom
Published: August 2024

This study synthesizes insights from collaborative network and agency termination theories to investigate how agencies' positions in designed networks impact their survival probability. Using longitudinal data for the central apparatus in China from 2005 to 2020, along with the designed networks derived from 1243 joint tasks arranged by the State Council, we conducted event history analyses to test our hypotheses. Our findings suggest that a centralized network position can significantly reduce an agency's likelihood of termination, while agencies in the periphery of designed networks may be less likely to survive significant restructuring. It is also discovered that stronger agencies, such as larger, economically functioning, or statutorily created ones, benefit more from centralized network positions. These findings underscore the pivotal role played by agencies' positions within designed networks in their survival prospects. As such, agencies should strategically leverage their positions within collaborative networks to mitigate the risk of termination.
Nonlinear models based on leaf architecture traits explain the variability of mesophyll conductance across plant species
Authors: Rahimi‐Majd Milad , Leverett Alistair , Neumann Arne , Kromdijk Johannes , Nikoloski Zoran
Published: August 2024

Mesophyll conductance () describes the efficiency with which moves from substomatal cavities to chloroplasts. Despite the stipulated importance of leaf architecture in affecting , there remains a considerable ambiguity about how and whether leaf anatomy influences . Here, we employed nonlinear machine‐learning models to assess the relationship between 10 leaf architecture traits and . These models used leaf architecture traits as predictors and achieved excellent predictability of . Dissection of the importance of leaf architecture traits in the models indicated that cell wall thickness and chloroplast area exposed to internal airspace have a large impact on interspecific variation in . Additionally, other leaf architecture traits, such as leaf thickness, leaf density and chloroplast thickness, emerged as important predictors of . We also found significant differences in the predictability between models trained on different plant functional types. Therefore, by moving beyond simple linear and exponential models, our analyses demonstrated that a larger suite of leaf architecture traits drive differences in than has been previously acknowledged. These findings pave the way for modulating by strategies that modify its leaf architecture determinants.
Enhancing quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) growth in saline environments through salt‐tolerant rhizobacteria from halophyte biotope
Authors: Slatni Tarek , Ben Slimene Imen , Harzalli Zina , Taamalli Wael , Smaoui Abderrazak , Abdelly Chedly , Elkahoui Salem
Published: August 2024

The use of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in agriculture is one of the most promising approaches to improve plants' growth under salt stress and to support sustainable agriculture under climate change. In this context, our goal was to grow and enhance quinoa growth using native rhizobacteria that can withstand salt stress. To achieve this objective, we isolated rhizobacteria from three saline localities in a semi‐arid region in Tunisia, which are characterized by different halophyte species and tested their plant growth‐promoting (PGP) activities. Then, we inoculated quinoa seedlings cultivated on 300 mM NaCl with the three most efficient rhizobacteria. A positive effect of the three‐salt tolerant rhizobacteria on the growth of quinoa under salinity was observed. In fact, the results of principal component analysis indicated that the inoculation of quinoa by salt‐tolerant PGPR under high salinity had a prominent beneficial effect on various growth and physiological parameters of stressed plant, such as the biomass production, the roots length, the secondary roots number, proline content and photosynthesis activities. Three rhizobacteria were utilized in this investigation, and the molecular identification revealed that strain 1 is related to the Bacillus inaquosorum species, strain 2 to Bacillus thuringiensis species and strain 3 to Bacillus proteolyticus species. We can conclude that the saline soil, especially the halophytic rhizosphere, is a potential source of salt‐tolerant plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (ST‐PGPR), which stimulate the growth of quinoa and improve its tolerance to salinity.
Roles of stress‐associated proteins in plant abiotic stress responses
Authors: Bae Yeongil , Lim Chae Woo , Lee Sung Chul
Published: August 2024

As a consequence of irregular and rapid changes in the external environment, plants are constantly exposed to a diverse range of stresses, including desiccation, high salinity, extreme temperatures, and metal toxicity. To contend with these stresses, plants have evolved an elaborate array of defense mechanisms and defense‐related molecules, including a range of regulatory proteins. Stress‐associated proteins (SAPs), a novel subclass of zinc‐finger proteins, have been established to play key roles in plant stress responses. These SAPs, which tend to be structurally conserved among different plant species and are typically characterized by a combination of the A20, AN1, and C2H2 domains, have attracted considerable interest in recent decades on account of their involvement in diverse abiotic stress responses. In this review, we aim to provide a brief overview of the discovery and identification of SAPs in plants, with a particular focus on their roles in response to different abiotic stresses. In this regard, phenotypic analyses using transgenic plants have highlighted the dual regulatory role of SAPs in modulating stress responses, wherein by inducing physiological and morphological alterations at the cellular level, they can contribute to both positive and negative effects. However, despite significant advances in the characterization of these proteins, their precise functions remain incompletely understood. This review consolidates our current knowledge regarding SAPs and delineates potential avenues for future research, which we anticipate will unravel the intricate functional dynamics of SAPs in plant stress responses.
Peanut photosynthesis response to drought can include diffusive and biochemical limitations depending on cultivar
Authors: Soba David , Parker Summer , Chen Charles , Shekoofa Avat , Sanz‐Saez Alvaro
Published: August 2024

Photosynthesis, understood as the photosynthetic carbon assimilation rate, is one of the key processes affected by drought stress. The effects can be via decreased CO2 diffusion and biochemical constraints. However, there is still no unified consensus about the contribution of each mechanism to the drought response. This research assessed the underlying limitations to photosynthesis in nine peanut genotypes (Arachis hypogaea L.) with different water strategies (water savers vs water spenders) under progressive drought. Water saver cultivars close the stomata earlier during drought, resulting in decreased transpiration and photosynthesis, which results in less water depletion in the soil, while water spenders maintain the stomata open during drought. In order to test the performance of these genotypes, growth, transpiration per plant, gas exchange measurements, chlorophyll fluorescence and A/Ci response curves were analyzed under drought and well‐watered conditions. In general, drought first affected photosynthesis (at the leaf and canopy level) via stomatal closure and then by impacts on chlorophyll fluorescence in all genotypes, but at different intensity levels. The maximum rate of carboxylation and the maximum rate of electron transport, physiological characteristics related to biochemical constraints, were not affected during the onset of drought, but they were decreased at the end of the drought period, with the exception of the PI 493329 genotype that showed higher stomatal conductance due to a bigger root system. The findings presented here highlight the importance of genetic variation in the photosynthetic response of peanut to drought, which should be considered when breeding for future climates.
The relationship between digital technologies and the circular economy: a systematic literature review and a research agenda
Authors: Neri Alessandra , Cagno Enrico , Susur Ebru , Urueña Alberto , Nuur Cali , Kumar Vikas , Franchi Samuele , Sorrentino Ciro
Published: August 2024

Digital technologies are widely recognised as crucial for promoting the circular economy in industry. However, there still needs for clearer guidance for industrial practitioners on properly using digital technologies to support the implementation of the circular economy. Further efforts are needed to characterise such a relationship better. This work conducts a systematic literature review aimed at understanding the nature and scope of the relationship by examining current knowledge at the intersection of the two domains, i.e. digital technologies and the circular economy. Specifically, the analysis focuses on identifying moderators and mediators of this relationship. About the former, the study discusses the relevance of management commitment, competencies, stakeholders and contextual factors; concerning the latter, the study discusses the relevance of supply chain integration and collaboration and examines in more detail the role of digital‐enabled dynamic capabilities, given their promising relevance in the current debate. Based on the review, a research agenda is proposed with suggestions for future research directions on the relationship between digital technologies and the circular economy.
Financialization and an emerging “green investor state”: Examining China's use of state‐backed funds for green transition
Authors: Beck Kasper Ingeman , Larsen Mathias
Published: August 2024

China is simultaneously enacting a state‐led financialization of governance and a prioritization of environmental objectives. Resultingly, dedicated state‐backed green funds have grown in scale beyond US$70 billion. Drawing on interviews, policies, and financial databases, we examine these funds through policy document analysis, descriptive statistics, and three case studies. Tying together the literature on “financialization” and the “green state” we show how China's “market‐driven, government‐guided” type of state‐led financialization enhances the country's green state investment capacity. This is distinct from other countries' experience of diminishing capacities resulting from financialization of the state. We introduce the concept of a “green investor state” to capture China's approach and argue that the approach is difficult to replicate beyond state‐capitalist economies. However, the gradual return of industrial policy elsewhere makes the use of similar funds increasingly feasible globally, warranting further research on the use of green funds under none‐state‐led types of financialization.
Toward a Sociological Perspective on the Gender and Sexuality of Friendship
Authors: Fox Emily C.
Published: August 2024

This article reviews friendship research to offer a conceptual framework that helps us better understand the co‐constructive nature of gender, sexuality, and friendship in the United States. Scholarship across psychology and sociology considers friendship experiences, friendship processes, friendship patterns, friendship schemas, and the social implications of friendship. Psychological research identifies that friendship experiences and friendships processes differ by gender and explores the social implications for individuals. While sociology has dedicated less attention to friendship, this perspective offers insights on the social construction and structural basis of friendship. Sociological perspectives reveal how friendship schemas—based in amatonormativity, heteronormativity, and gender essentialism—shape friendship experiences, friendship processes, and friendship patterns in gendered ways. In addition, sociological research examines the social implications of friendship at both individual and institutional levels, documenting friendship's roles in systems of inequality. Thus, I argue that a sociological perspective is necessary to fully grasp how societies in general and cultural understandings of gender and sexuality in particular, shape and are shaped by friendships.
Means‐Tested Welfare Benefits and Subjective Well‐Being Through Time: Does Clients' Life Satisfaction Recover?
Authors: Nivorozhkin Anton , Promberger Markus
Published: August 2024

We study the process of subjective well‐being adaptation to receiving welfare benefits. Using 15 waves of the German Panel Study Labour Market and Social Security and fixed‐effects regression models, we find that welfare benefit receipt decreases life satisfaction. Furthermore, on average, the results speak against the hypothesis of adaptation to receiving the benefit; the subjective well‐being of welfare benefit receipt starts poor and stays poor. On average, the life satisfaction of women with small children does not decrease upon receipt of welfare benefits.
GhEXL3 participates in brassinosteroids regulation of fiber elongation in Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: Zhang Changsheng , Liu Zhao , Shu Sheng , Li Xinyang , Li Yujun , Liu Le , Liu Li , Wang Xuwen , Li Fuguang , Qanmber Ghulam , Yang Zuoren
Published: August 2024

Cotton fiber (Gossypium hirsutum) serves as an ideal model for investigating the molecular mechanisms of plant cell elongation at the single‐cell level. Brassinosteroids (BRs) play a crucial role in regulating plant growth and development. However, the mechanism by which BR influences cotton fiber elongation remains incompletely understood. In this study, we identified EXORDIUM‐like (GhEXL3) through transcriptome analysis of fibers from BR‐deficient cotton mutant pagoda 1 (pag1) and BRI1‐EMS‐SUPPRESSOR 1 (GhBES1.4, encoding a central transcription factor of BR signaling) overexpression cotton lines. Knockout of GhEXL3 using CRISPR/Cas9 was found to impede cotton fiber elongation, while its overexpression promoted fiber elongation, suggesting a positive regulatory function for GhEXL3 in fiber elongation. Furthermore, in vitro ovule culture experiments revealed that the overexpression of GhEXL3 partially counteracted the inhibitory effects of brassinazole (BRZ) on cotton fiber elongation, providing additional evidence of GhEXL3 involvement in BR signaling pathways. Moreover, our findings demonstrate that GhBES1.4 directly binds to the E‐box (CACGTG) motif in the GhEXL3 promoter region and enhances its transcription. RNA‐seq analysis revealed that overexpression of GhEXL3 upregulated the expression of EXPs, XTHs, and other genes associated with fiber cell elongation. Overall, our study contributes to understanding the mechanism by which BR regulates the elongation of cotton fibers through the direct modulation of GhEXL3 expression by GhBES1.4.
Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor (M‐CSF) and Interleukin‐34 (IL‐34) Expression in Canine Osteosarcoma in the Context of the Tumour Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Robinson Christopher J. , Moeller Cambri E. , Quick Cally N. , Goodermuth Christine E. , Carossino Mariano , Withers Sita S.
Published: August 2024

Canine osteosarcoma (OSA) is a malignancy that has been shown to modulate the host immune system. Macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF; CSF1) and interleukin‐34 (IL‐34; IL34) are both ligands of colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF‐1R), and may play a role in the pathogenesis of a variety of human cancers, including OSA. This study aimed to, (1) assess M‐CSF and IL‐34 expression in canine OSA cell lines and tissue samples, and (2) determine any correlations between M‐CSF and IL‐34 expression and immune cell infiltrates within canine OSA tissues. Four canine OSA cell lines and canine osteoblasts were treated with control media, TNFα (10 ng/mL) or IL‐1β (10 ng/mL) and analysed with RT‐qPCR and ELISA. IL‐34 and M‐CSF mRNA and protein were detectable in all cell lines, however upregulation following TNFα or IL‐1β exposure was only consistently observed for transcript expression. Baseline expression of CSF1 and IL34 mRNA in OSA cell lines was equal to or higher than that of canine osteoblasts. All 10 OSA tissue samples expressed IL34 and CSF1 transcripts to varying degrees. Furthermore, CSF1 and IL34 expression both showed a moderate to high degree of correlation with M1 macrophage lineage‐associated transcripts (CD80 and IL15RA). There was a moderate degree of correlation between CSF1 and CD163, but no correlation between IL34 and either M2 macrophage‐associated transcripts (CD163 and CCL24). In summary, IL‐34 and M‐CSF are expressed in canine OSA cell lines and tissues, and expression positively correlates with a wide range of immune‐related transcripts.
A novel cisAB allele with a missense variant (c.971T>C) in the ABO gene of a Brazilian family
Authors: Miola Marcos Paulo , Prochaska Caroline Luise , Cardoso Guilherme , Ricci Junior Octávio , de Mattos Luiz Carlos
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Missense variants in exon 7 of the ABO gene can lead to the formation of cisAB alleles. These alleles encode glycosyltransferases (GTs) capable of synthesizing both A and B antigens. In this study, we report the discovery of a novel cisAB allele and characterize it at molecular, protein and serological levels.

Materials and Methods

Blood and DNA samples from the proband and seven relatives were examined using standard and modified ABO phenotyping, polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism and ABO gene sequencing. We assessed the impact of the p.Leu324Ser variant on the protein structure of the mutant GT using bioinformatics tools.

Results

Molecular tests revealed a c.971T>C (p.Leu324Ser) variant in the ABO gene in five of the eight individuals. This variant results in a GT that produces more A antigens and fewer B antigens. Bioinformatics analysis suggests that the amino acid substitution (p.Leu324Ser) could potentially affect enzymatic activity and specificity of the GT.

Conclusion

We identified a novel cisAB allele resulting from a c.971T>C variant in the ABO gene. This variant led to the expression of an ABweak phenotype.
Powering Toward Los Angeles: Comparing Power Output and Pacing Approach Between Maximal 2000- and 1500-m On-Water Racing in Elite Rowers
Authors: Astridge Daniel J. , Peeling Peter , Goods Paul S.R. , Girard Olivier , Binnie Martyn J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose: To compare power output and pacing between maximal 1500- and 2000-m on-water rowing performances. Methods: Twenty-six (female n = 4, male n = 22) international rowers, across 6 boat classes, completed maximal 1500- and 2000-m on-water races, separated by 24 to 48 hours. Crew combinations and seat orders remained consistent between races. Peach PowerLine instrumentation measured power output and stroke rate. Differences in completion time, mean power output (MPO), percentage prognostic velocity (PPV; percentage of world record velocity in each boat class), stroke rate, and pacing variance were assessed using linear mixed modeling. Results: Compared with 2000-m, completion times were 90.4 (6.1) seconds shorter over 1500 m (−24.7% [0.7%]). Both MPO (P = .255, ) and PPV (P = .340, ) were not different between distances. Broadly, crews adopted a reverse-J-shaped pacing across both distances, demonstrating a reduced variance over 1500 m (P = .035, ). Percentage change in MPO from 2000 to 1500 m demonstrated a strong negative association with pacing variance over 1500 m (R2 = .74, P = .027). Conclusions: International rowing crews did not increase MPO or PPV when racing maximally over 1500 m compared to 2000 m. Comparable strategies were adopted over both distances, with less variance in pacing observed over 1500 m. The crews that demonstrated greater increases in MPO over the shorter race employed a flatter pacing strategy. To improve 1500-m on-water performance, rowers may need to adopt a more even pacing approach.
Sustainable polymers that stick inside and out
Authors: Guan Zhibin
Published: August 2024

A naturally occurring fatty acid yields a set of adhesives with different properties
Interferon-stimulated genes and their antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ortega-Prieto Ana Maria , Jimenez-Guardeño Jose M.
Published: August 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic remains an international health problem caused by the recent emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). As of May 2024, SARS-CoV-2 has caused more than 775 million cases and over 7 million deaths globally. Despite current vaccination programs, infections are still rapidly increasing, mainly due to the appearance and spread of new variants, variations in immunization rates, and limitations of current vaccines in preventing transmission. This underscores the need for pan-variant antivirals and treatments. The interferon (IFN) system is a critical element of the innate immune response and serves as a frontline defense against viruses. It induces a generalized antiviral state by transiently upregulating hundreds of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). To gain a deeper comprehension of the innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2, its connection to COVID-19 pathogenesis, and the potential therapeutic implications, this review provides a detailed overview of fundamental aspects of the diverse ISGs identified for their antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2. It emphasizes the importance of these proteins in controlling viral replication and spread. Furthermore, we explore methodological approaches for the identification of ISGs and conduct a comparative analysis with other viruses. Deciphering the roles of ISGs and their interactions with viral pathogens can help identify novel targets for antiviral therapies and enhance our preparedness to confront current and future viral threats.
Importance of encouraging early presentation and referral for soft tissue lesions
Authors: Chandraseker Coonoor , Pollitt-Walmsley Danielle
Published: August 2024

Delays in both the presentation and referral of soft tissue lesions have been extensively recorded in the existing literature. Such delays may result in lesions invading into surrounding tissues including neurovascular structures, increasing the risk of surgical complications and adverse consequences for patients. Delays in initiation of treatment of soft tissue sarcomas have further been associated with increased rates of metastasis. As such, patients’ recovery may be limited due to late presentations, and residual morbidity may be more pronounced. This case report presents the predicament of a fungating mass in a female in her 80s in order to emphasise the importance of identifying and referring to such lesions early on. The referral delay of this lesion highlights the impact increasing awareness of this condition among both healthcare professionals and patients could have by allowing for earlier interventions.
AAC Stockton barley
Authors: Badea A. , Legge W.G. , Tucker J.R. , Fetch T.G. , Menzies J.G. , Wang X. , Turkington T.K , Khanal R. , MacEachern D. , Blackwell B.A.
Published: August 2024

AAC Stockton is a hulled two-row spring general purpose barley ( Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivar widely adapted to western Canada. It was developed from the cross TR11219/CDC Kindersley made in 2012, and it was evaluated in the Western Cooperative Two-row Barley Registration Test (2020–2021) before being registered in 2023. AAC Stockton will offer a good production choice for barley growers across the Prairies due to its grain yield potential, lodging resistance, and improved Fusarium head blight resistance.
Revisiting statefinder via Gaussian process
Authors: Feng Zhihua , Xu Lixin
Published: August 2024

The statefinder diagnostic is useful to discriminate dark energy models. In this paper, under the minimum assumption of a spatially flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker Universe, we reconstruct the statefinder pair $$\{r(z),s(z)\}$$

{
r
(
z
)
,
s
(
z
)
}

in addition to the deceleration parameter q(z) via the Gaussian process from the cosmic observational data points which include the recently released Pantheon+ SN Ia samples and the observational Hubble data H(z). The reconstructed evolution trajectories are shown on the $$r-q$$

r
-
q

, $$r-s$$

r
-
s

planes. The reconstructed q(z) is consistent with previous studies. Meanwhile, a novel quantity named suitability is introduced on the $$r-q$$

r
-
q

, $$r-s$$

r
-
s

planes to assess the validation of a dark energy model.
Monopsony Power in the Labor Market: From Theory to Policy
Authors: Azar José , Marinescu Ioana
Published: August 2024

Labor markets are not perfectly competitive: Monopsony power enables employers to pay workers less than the marginal revenue product of labor. We review three theoretical frameworks explaining monopsony power. Oligopsony models attribute it to strategic interactions among a limited number of firms. Job differentiation models cite imperfect job substitution and heterogeneous worker preferences. Search-and-matching models point to search frictions hindering instantaneous access to all available jobs. We then develop a theory-informed discussion of the empirical evidence on antitrust policies, policies that reduce barriers to job switching, and policies countering monopsony's effects on workers. Preventing mergers and regulating noncompetition agreements can increase wages by preserving competition among employers. Minimum wages can mitigate the effect of monopsony power by increasing wages without reducing employment. The insights garnered from both theoretical models and empirical evidence offer a road map for crafting policies that can enhance competition in the labor market.
Advanced Potentiometric Configuration to Enhance Stability and Reliability of AlGaN/GaN HEMT-Based Water-Gated pH Sensor
Authors: Firdaus Amirul , Fauzi Najihah , Ismail Shuhadah , Kawarada Hiroshi , Falina Shaili , Syamsul Mohd
Published: August 2024

High-electron mobility transistor (HEMT) sensors show great promise for achieving direct, real-time, and label-free detection. Leveraging the distinctive characteristics of the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG), HEMT sensors can amplify current fluctuations related to potential changes when molecules are introduced, making them extremely sensitive to surface charge variations. The introduction of a water-gated HEMT (WGHEMT) sensor represents a significant advancement, enabling precise detection of pH levels across a broad spectrum, from acidic pH 2 to basic pH 12. Comprising an inner and outer pool with an ion-selective membrane situated in between, the WGHEMT pH sensor exhibits excellent voltage and current sensitivity of 43.71 mV pH−1 and 144.42 μA pH−1, respectively. It features a rapid response time of 12 s and demonstrates remarkable stability and reliability, with coefficients of variation (C.V.) of 0.29%, 0.12%, 0.26%, 0.24%, 0.28%, and 0.28% for pH 2, pH 4, pH 6, pH 8, pH 10, and pH 12, respectively. The sensor maintains its performance with only 10% degradation after 5 months of repeated measurements and exposure to various pH levels. The WGHEMT pH sensor’s excellent sensitivity, linearity, hysteresis, rapid response time, stability, and reliability highlight its potential for practical deployment in real-world applications.
Electrochemical Nanomolar Determination of the Anticancer Drug 5-Fluorouracil Using Chitosan Curcumin Schiff Base-Decorated NiO Nanorods Synthesized with Green Method
Authors: Abd-Elsabour Mohamed , Abou-Krisha Mortaga M. , Abdel-Haleem Fatehy M. , Goda Mohamed N. , Mohy-Eldin Mohamed S.
Published: August 2024

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used in the treatment of various cancers, necessitating accurate and sensitive detection techniques. Hybrid materials, combining organic and inorganic components, offer superior electrochemical characteristics, including enhanced conductivity and stability. Herein, NiO nanorods (NiONRs) were synthesized using Mangifera indica leaves extract and decorated with chitosan curcumin analog Schiff base (Cs-Cur-A). The characterization of the NiONRs and Cs-Cur-A were investigated through different techniques including FT-IR, 1HNMR, XRD, SEM, and EDX. A sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor to determine 5-FU was elucidated using a Cs-Cur-A/NiONRs modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The anodic peak current of 5-FU was greatly enhanced at the Cs-Cur-A/NiONRs/GCE with pH 7.0 and a scan rate of 50 mV s−1. According to chronoamperometric measurements, the value of diffusion coefficient (D) was estimated to be 2.96 × 10−6 cm2 s−1. Using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), the fabricated sensor exhibits a wide linear range (0.1–150.0 μM) with a low limit of detection (21.75 nM). Moreover, the proposed sensor was successfully applied to the detection of 5-FU in blood serum and urine samples with high reproducibility, repeatability, and selectivity.
Pt Nanoparticles Electrochemically Deposited onto Heteroatom-Doped Graphene Supports as Electrocatalysts for ORR in Acid Media
Authors: Chambers Raegan , Hussain Sajid , Kozlova Jekaterina , Kukli Kaupo , Ritslaid Peeter , Kikas Arvo , Kisand Vambola , Erikson Heiki , Tammeveski Kaido
Published: August 2024

Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) are attached to different single heteroatom-doped (N, S, P, and B) and dual heteroatom-doped (N, B and N, P) graphene nanosheets via electrochemical deposition using the chronoamperometric method, which allowed for strong attachment of the PtNPs onto the support surface. The effect of the support material on the electrocatalytic activity of the PtNPs on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in acidic media is examined. The PtNPs supported on boron-doped graphene exhibit the highest specific activity (1.26 mA cm−2), and the PtNPs supported on nitrogen and boron dual heteroatom-doped graphene exhibit the highest mass activity (0.70 A mg−1) at 0.9 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode. The kinetics of the ORR vary significantly depending on the dopants, thus concluding that the heteroatom doping of the graphene support material affects the electrocatalytic activity of PtNPs toward the ORR.
Damage Scenario Prediction for Concrete Bridge Columns Using Deep Generative Networks
Authors: Lin Tzu-Kang , Chang Hao-Tun , Wang Ping-Hsiung , Wu Rih-Teng , Saddek Ahmed Abdalfatah , Chang Kuo-Chun , Dzeng Dzong-Chwang
Published: August 2024

Bridges in areas with high seismic risk are constantly exposed to earthquake threats. Therefore, comprehensive bridge damage assessments are essential for postearthquake retrofitting and safety assurance. However, traditional methods of assessing damage and collecting data are time‐consuming and labor‐intensive. To address this issue, this study proposes a deep generative adversarial network (GAN)‐based approach to predict the surface damage patterns of bridge columns. Using visual patterns from experimental tests, the proposed approach can generate surface damage to the synthetic column, such as cracks and concrete splinters. The study also investigates the effects of different data representation schemes, such as grayscale, black and white, and obstacle‐removed images, and uses the corresponding damage indices as additional constraints to improve network training. The results show that the proposed approach can offer a reliable reference for bridge engineers to evaluate and repair seismic‐induced bridge damage, which can significantly lower the cost of disaster reconnaissance.
Optimization of Thermal Conductivity and Latent Heat Capacity Using Fractional Factorial Approach for the Synthesis of Nano‐Enhanced High‐Performance Phase‐Change Material
Authors: Mohan Man , Dewangan Sheetal Kumar , Lee Kwan , Ahn Byungmin
Published: August 2024

This study systematically optimizes the synthesis parameters for nano‐enhanced phase‐change materials (NEPCMs) based on paraffin wax and copper oxide. The objective is to collectively improve both thermal conductivity and latent heat capacity. Unlike the previous research, the present approach considers all significant synthesis parameters simultaneously, employing a fractional factorial approach for efficient experimentation. By varying CuO nanoparticle sizes, paraffin wax melting temperatures, and mass fractions of CuO and surfactant in pure paraffin wax, the comprehensive thermal analysis reveals a maximum enhancement of 51.2% thermal conductivity compared to pure paraffin wax. In addition to thermal conductivity improvement, the applied optimization strategy identifies six NEPCM combinations, collectively enhancing thermal conductivity, latent heat of melting, and solidification. Among these, one NEPCM exhibits notable improvements of 13.39%, 6.9%, and 4.5% in thermal conductivity, latent heat of melting, and solidification, respectively, making it suitable for thermal energy storage systems due to combined enhanced thermal properties. Additionally, the ANOVA approach indicates the melting temperature of pure PCM as the most significant factor for thermal conductivity enhancement, with a contribution of 55.45%. The present study has a direct impact on improving thermal properties, specifically in thermal energy storage technology, making it relevant to the thermal management research community.
Supplementary Figure 1 from Mast Cell Infiltration and Subtype Promote Malignant Transformation of Oral Precancer and Progression of Oral Cancer
Authors: Cai Xin-Jia , Peng Chao-Ran , Zhang Jian-Yun , Li Xue-Fen , Wang Xu , Han Ying , Zhang He-Yu , Peng Xin , Li Tie-Jun
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Figure 1. The spatial distance between mast cells, CD8+ cells and cancer cells (A). The distances between MCTC and CD8+ cells (B), as well as between MCT and CD8+ cells (C), were lower in OSCC than in OLK within a radius of 40µm, 60µm, 80µm, and 100µm, but there is no significant difference between them within a radius of 20µm. The greater distances were found between MCTC and cancer cells compared to MCT and cancer cells in OSCC within a radius of 20µm, 40µm, 60µm, 80µm, and 100µm (D). The distances between MCT and CD8+ cells within a radius of 20µm were grouped based on the standardized log-rank statistic (E), and the KM curve survival analyses showed that the greater distance between MCT and CD8+ cells within a radius of 20µm was associated with poor survival of OSCC (F). *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ns, not significant.
Effect of Music-Based Interventions on Maternal and Fetal Parameters during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dogan-Gangal Aliye , Akin Belgin , Kocoglu-Tanyer Deniz
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Music is a non-pharmacological intervention often used to improve maternal mental health during pregnancy. However, there is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of music-based interventions on maternal and fetal parameters during pregnancy. We present a systematic review of the available research literature on the effects of music interventions on maternal and fetal parameters. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on the Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane, ProQuest, and Turkish databases. The review included randomized controlled and quasi-experimental studies. Two independent authors evaluated the methodological quality of each study using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018102914). Results: The literature review yielded a total of 723 studies. Among these studies, 13 were included in this study. Most of the studies involving low-risk pregnant women reported that music had no effect on stress but reduced anxiety and depression. The effect of music on pregnant women’s blood pressure varied depending on the presence of medical conditions that could affect their blood pressure. While some studies showed that music interventions effectively increased fetal movement and acceleration, the available findings were limited. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals can use simple, cost-effective, and practical music interventions to improve maternal mental health during pregnancy without neglecting medical treatment. Future well-designed studies are recommended to investigate the effects of music on maternal psychological, physiological parameters and fetal parameters in high-risk pregnancies.
Estrutura de referência para a mediação da Avaliação do Ciclo de Vida pela Internet das Coisas
Authors: Barros Natalia Nakamura , Ruschel Regina Coeli
Published: August 2024

Una de las principales dificultades a la hora de adoptar el Análisis del Ciclo de Vida de los edificios (ACVed) es la recogida, almacenamiento y estructuración de datos para realizar el cálculo ambiental y posterior visualización de los resultados. IoT tiene el potencial de aportar mayor precisión a la recopilación de datos para ACV. Los sistemas de IoT deben diseñarse con las mejores prácticas de escalabilidad, interoperabilidad y componibilidad para lograrlo. Un modelo estructural puede proporcionar elementos fundamentales para esta integración. El principal objetivo de esta investigación es proponer un modelo estructural para la integración de IoT y ACV, explicando enfoques alternativos y estándares tecnológicos que permitan soportar ACV a través de IoT. Para ello se aplicó el método estructuralista con el siguiente diseño: identificación de los elementos para la integración a partir de una Revisión Sistemática de la Literatura de propuestas integradoras para estos temas, conceptualización, establecimiento de relaciones entre los elementos, elaboración del modelo estructural y análisis. Los elementos se clasificaron en 12 categorías que se aproximan a los temas: framework, product, collect, communication, data, storage, service, application, goal and scope definition, life cycle inventory, life cycle impact assessment and interpretation. El modelo puede ser utilizado por agentes interesados en mediar el ACV con IoT, proporcionándoles una comprensión general de las alternativas de integración dependiendo del alcance de la evaluación y el desarrollo de la tecnología. Además, el modelo desarrollado puede comparar trabajos relacionados con el tema o alternativas de implementación.
The Future of Government Pressure on Social Media Platforms
Authors: Volokh Eugene
Published: August 2024

As vast social media platforms undertake more content policing, the U.S. government has unsurprisingly tried to urge them to police things the way it prefers. This is likely to continue and, indeed, expand. What First Amendment constraints are there on such government pressure? This essay offers some tentative thoughts: 1) Some court of appeals cases have drawn lines distinguishing permissible attempts by government to persuade intermediaries to remove their users’ or business partners’ materials from impermissible government coercion. 2) The Supreme Court's employer free speech cases may also inform our understanding of what counts as subtle coercion. 3) Courts considering other constitutional rights, especially the Fourth Amendment, have concluded that even noncoercive government persuasion may sometimes constitute impermissible evasion of the constitutional mandate. 4) A recent appellate decision (which the Supreme Court vacated on procedural grounds) suggests a potential distinction between ad hoc and systematic attempts to persuade platforms to remove content, though whether that line is ultimately either sensible or administrable is an open question.
Risk and protective factors for revictimization from intimate partner violence: A systematic review
Authors: Ortega Pacheco Yesid José , Gallo-Barrera Yeison David , Pozo Muñoz Carmen
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Intimate partner violence is a global public health problem that mainly affects women rather than men. It has been associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes, including experiences of revictimization. This systematic review describes the risk and protective factors associated with revictimization in female victims of intimate partner violence.

Methods:

We searched for articles published between 1995 and 2024 in the Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases. In total, 925 studies that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed, of which 38 were evaluated as eligible, and 12 were finally included in the review.

Results:

Among the risk factors were mental health problems, some demographic characteristics of the victims, previous experiences of violence, and coping and attachment styles. Economic independence, empowerment, and restraining orders were protective factors.

Conclusions:

Based on the results, we present some practical implications for health and public policy as well as recommendations for directing future research into revictimization.
A Systems-Based Approach to Criminal Thinking and Behavior
Authors: Scollione James
Published: August 2024

Nearly all theoretical approaches and therapies to criminal thinking and behavior have been reductionist, meaning that they focus on a part or a subsystem of a system or a supra-system. While these reductionist theories and therapies have provided, and continue to provide, valuable information and rehabilitation, they offer a limited view of criminality and rehabilitation as a consequence of reductionism. Using general systems theory (GST), this article presents an integrated and interdisciplinary theoretical approach to criminal thinking and behavior. This article posits that criminality can be better understood, prevented, and treated using GST.
Competitive Asymmetry Among B-schools Based on Graduate Outcome and Institute Financial Performance: The Need for Academic Parity
Authors: John Kishore Thomas , G. Rejikumar , Nirappathu Jojo Joy , Raghavan Ajith Kumar Kamala
Published: August 2024

The B-school scenario in India is vast; with institutions in thousands, and hundreds of thousands in annual intake. Despite availability of ranking metrics, these portray only a partial picture of the top institutes alone, leaving the majority of Indian B-schools unmapped. The competitive arena for institutes is asymmetric, creating a problem with existing indexes as they do not aid aspirants or major stakeholders to make accurate estimates of institutional performance. Using secondary data from a statutory body (AICTE), the paper studies how this asymmetry is played out in aspects of graduate outcome performance- namely outturn and placement, as well as institutional financial performances within the context of a single state. Publicly available information from media and other intelligence reports have been further leveraged to augment facts. The study clusters institutes based on graduate outturn and placements into a vulnerability-risk grid, allowing accurate assessments of how B-schools are performing across a selected time-period. Financial risk assessment also helps in identifying the problem hotspots which require direct intervention. The paper is unique in its contribution to classifying risks among management institutes using a method which is scalable and adaptable. It identifies key imperatives to establish academic parity, by clustering deficit aspects based on the level of the b-schools performance.