bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Dividend Payout Policy: More Evidence From Emerging Markets of G20 Bloc
Authors: de Souza Junior Wagner Dantas , Hijazi Mohamed Mehdi , da Silva Tarcísio Pedro
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this article is to examine the key factors influencing dividend payout policy in emerging markets, using a quantitative approach with a sample of 938 firms and 19,698 firm‐year observations. The study considers dividends, and share repurchases as elements of payout, analysing the effect of earnings, taxes, debt, size and free cash flow on payout decisions through an OLS Panel Data regression model and a GMM‐AB model for robustness. Findings indicate that taxes, size and leverage positively influence payout, while free cash flow and earnings show negative associations. Notably, free cash flow exhibits the largest impact on payout variations, supporting asymmetric information theories like bird‐in‐hand, signalling and dividend life cycle theories, where payout responds to investor risk aversion. The paper's originality lies in its 21‐year analysis of 11 emerging economies, identifying that, unlike developed markets where payout is shaped by agency conflicts, emerging markets emphasise reducing investor risk aversion. The findings also challenge existing financial theories by demonstrating a complementary relationship between investment and debt policies, with a negative correlation between cash flow and dividends and a positive one between leverage and dividends.
Preemergence pyrimisulfan applications affect purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) survival and reproduction
Authors: Begitschke Erick , Wang C. J. , Young A. A. , Tucker K. A. , Henry G. M.
Published: December 2024

Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) is one of the most problematic turfgrass weeds due to an elevated growth rate, aggressive rhizomes, and prolific tuber production. Currently, limited preemergence herbicide options exist for the control of C. rotundus. Therefore, research was conducted in the greenhouse to examine preemergence activity of pyrimisulfan on C. rotundus control and reproduction. Seven tubers were planted in 1‐L pots containing native soil. Treatments were initiated on July 14, 2021 and consisted of single and sequential applications of granular‐applied pyrimisulfan, liquid‐applied pyrimisulfan, and liquid‐applied pyrimisulfan + dithiopyr. Sequential applications were made on September 3, 2021. A nontreated check was added for comparison. Pots were destructively harvested 12 weeks after initial treatment (WAIT). Shoot dry biomass (g), rhizome dry biomass (g), tuber dry biomass (g), and tuber number were determined for each pot. Tubers were tested for viability (%) using tetrazolium chloride. All herbicide treatments reduced the number of emerged plants, shoot dry biomass, rhizome dry biomass, tuber dry biomass, tuber number, and tuber viability compared to the nontreated. A single application of liquid‐applied pyrimisulfan reduced the number of emerged plants by 99% 10 WAIT and viable tubers by 100% 12 WAIT, compared to a single application of granular‐applied pyrimisulfan (70% and 87%, respectively). Sequential applications of granular‐applied pyrimisulfan provided similar results as all liquid‐applied pyrimisulfan treatments across response variables. Neither a sequential application nor the addition of dithiopyr increased liquid‐applied pyrimisulfan efficacy.
Comparing and intervening on behavioral demand for snack foods among justice‐involved adolescents: A preliminary translational analysis
Authors: Edgemon Anna Kate , Martinez‐Perez Carla N. , Newland M. Christopher , Rapp John T.
Published: December 2024

Obesity may be more prevalent among populations who are of low socioeconomic status, have limited access to nutrient‐dense foods, or both. One such population is justice‐involved youth. This series of translational experiments builds on previous research on food reinforcement and behavioral demand by (a) assaying demand for snack foods among justice‐involved adolescents and (b) evaluating the effect of a nutrition intervention on justice‐involved adolescents' demand for healthier alternatives. In Experiment 1, participants completed preference assessments for high‐ and low‐energy‐density snack foods and corresponding commodity purchasing tasks. The results indicated significant differences in demand based on energy density and preference. In Experiment 2, justice‐involved adolescents received a nutrition intervention. Following intervention, participants repeated preference assessments and commodity purchasing tasks. The researchers used mixed‐effects modeling to evaluate the effect of (a) the intervention, (b) participant age, and (c) the amount of intervention received on pre–post differences in demand for healthier alternatives. Results and implications are discussed along with future directions for improving conditions of confinement for justice‐involved adolescents.
Impact of tillage, cover crop, and in situ bioreactors on nutrient loss from an artificially drained Midwestern Mollisol
Authors: Rogovska Natalia , Kovar John L. , Malone Robert , O'Brien Peter , Emmett Bryan , Ruis Sabrina J.
Published: December 2024

Nutrient losses via subsurface tile cause environmental degradation of aquatic ecosystems. Various management practices are primarily aimed at reduction of nitrate leaching in tile discharge; however, studies on leaching of other nutrients are limited. A replicated plot experiment was initiated in 2016 as part of the Long‐Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) network Croplands Common Experiment to quantify the effectiveness of management practices on leaching of NO3‐N, total P, K, and S from drained soils. Corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) were grown under five different treatments: (1) BP: basic practice with fall chisel plow; (2) NT: no‐till crop production; (3) RC: no‐till with a winter rye (Secale cereale L.) cover crop; (4) DW: no‐till with woodchip denitrification walls parallel to both sides of the tile; and (5) ZN: zero N; no‐till without N fertilization. Compared to BP, both RC and DW treatments reduced NO3‐N load by 63% and 47%, respectively; 15.5, 5.8, and 8.2 kg N ha−1 year−1, while omitting N fertilization did not impact N loads (12 kg N ha−1 year−1). The DW resulted in greater K loss compared to BP, presumably due to decomposing woodchips. No‐till practices increased drainage flow and K and P loads compared to conventionally tilled BP plots but had no impact on other nutrients. The BP produced the highest corn yield, whereas soybean yields were not affected by treatments. These findings indicate that while some conservation practices are effective in reducing nutrient leaching, others are likely to increase their loss and reduce crop yields.
Does FinTech Reduce Gender Asymmetry in Access to Finance in Sub‐Saharan Africa? Examining the Role of Digital Inclusion
Authors: Olaoye Olumide O. , Shaddady Ali , Tabash Mosab I. , Ray Samrat
Published: December 2024

The study examined whether FinTech reduces gender gap in access to finance in sub‐Saharan Africa. The study adopts a battery of econometric techniques in analysing the relationship between the two variables. Specifically, the study adopts the ordinary least square (OLS), the two‐step system generalized method of moments (GMM) to address the issues of endogeneity and simultaneity feedback and Driscoll and Kraay's consistent covariance matrix estimator to control for every form of cross sectional and temporal dependence in panel data. The study finds that FinTech increases gender asymmetry in access to finance in sub‐Saharan Africa. However, the study also reveals that reducing the gender gap in digital inclusion can help to reduce the gender gap in access to finance in sub‐Saharan Africa. The results also indicate that government quality and education are important determinants of gender access to financial inclusion in sub‐Saharan Africa. One main economic implication of our findings is that the deployment of FinTech alone will not reduce the gender gap in access to finance in sub‐Saharan Africa, rather in addition to FinTech, the gender gap in digital inclusion must be adequately addressed. The research and policy implications are discussed.
The Influence of North Atlantic Dipole Sea Surface Temperature Anomalies on Autumn Drought Over Southwest China
Authors: Qin Yi , Qin Yujing , Lu Chuhan , Bai Yingying , Liu Qian
Published: December 2024

In recent decades, there has been a notable increase in the frequency and severity of drought events in Southwest China (SWC), which have significantly impacted agriculture and the social economy. Using sea surface temperature (SST) data from the Hadley Centre, daily meteorological drought composite index grid data and ERA5 reanalysis data, we investigate the characteristics of autumn drought in SWC and discuss its possible causes using empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. The results indicate a distinct ‘Northeast–Southwest’ dipole pattern of autumn drought over SWC in the past decade, which we define as the ‘Chuan‐Yu’‐type drought. A British–Okhotsk Corridor (BOC) pattern Rossby wave train, presenting over Eurasia, is identified as the key factor influencing the ‘Chuan‐Yu’‐type drought in SWC during the autumn. The BOC‐pattern Rossby wave train not only obstructs water vapour transport channels in SWC but also induces anomalous descending motions in the lower to middle troposphere over the region, leading to high temperatures and insufficient precipitation. Further investigation reveals that North Atlantic dipole SST anomalies trigger the BOC‐pattern Rossby wave train in autumn. The results of the linear baroclinic model sensitivity simulations support the above conclusion. These findings will make valuable contributions to autumn drought prevention and mitigation in SWC.
A Micro‐CT Based Cadaveric Study Investigating Bone Density Changes During Hip Arthroplasty Surgery
Authors: Seemala Vineet , Williams Mark A. , King Richard , Goia Sofia , Wilson Paul F. , Palit Arnab
Published: December 2024

The impact of broaching and uncemented implantation on bone density during total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains unclear. Previous studies have typically examined extracted bone sections, which may not directly correlate with outcomes in human hip systems. This study aimed to evaluate bone density changes resulting from broaching and uncemented implantation using micro‐computed tomography (μCT) on cadaveric samples. An in‐house density calibration phantom (DCP) was developed by validating the densities of polymer inserts through mass and volume measurements. Its performance was then evaluated using lamb bone in comparison with a commercial DCP (QRM‐50124). The sensitivity of density predictions to μCT scan parameters was also evaluated with the lamb bone. Additionally, density predictions from medical‐CT and μCT scans were compared using the in‐house DCP. Finally, uncemented THA procedures were performed on three cadaveric femurs, each undergoing three μCT scans at various surgical stages to assess changes in bone density. The density predictions obtained using the in‐house DCP achieved an accuracy of ±0.097 g/cc compared to QRM‐50124, with a precision of ±0.052 g/cc. The sensitivity to changes in μCT scan parameters was ±0.022 g/cc. Notably, density predictions from medical‐CT and μCT scans were similar, particularly in cortical bone. Broaching and implantation led to an average increase in bone density of 0.137 g/cc, which was attributed to the accumulation of bone debris around the bone‐implant interface. This accumulation raised the bone volume fraction, ranging from 3.31% to 20.69%, which acts as an autograft. These measurements have been made for the first time using a µCT and an in‐house DCP.
Effects of potassium fertilization on grain yield, taste quality, and starch characteristics of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain
Authors: Liu Aihua , Ye Tinghong , Zhang Yangyang , Liao Shipeng , Li Xiaokun
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

There is limited information on the effect of potassium (K) on the taste quality of rice. Field experiments with five K fertilizer application rates (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 kg K2O ha−1) were conducted in 2019 and 2020 using two cultivars (Xiadao No. 1 and Shenliangyou 5814) to study the effects of K fertilization on grain yield, taste quality, starch components, and protein components in grains.

RESULTS

Compared with a no‐potassium treatment (K0), K fertilization increased the grain yield significantly: by 57.29% for Xiadao No. 1 and 33.51% for Shenliangyou 5814. It did this mainly by increasing the number of rice spikelets per panicle and improving the seed‐setting rate. K fertilization improved the taste value by 12.64% for Xiadao No. 1 and 10.83% for Shenliangyou 5814. Starch components, protein components, and viscosity parameters were also influenced by K fertilization. With increased K application, the amylose content and the ratio of amylose content to amylopectin content tended to increase. K fertilization increased the peak viscosity and cool paste viscosity, while decreasing the prolamin content and pasting temperature. Principal component analysis highlighted the importance of amylose content and the ratio of amylose content to amylopectin content in determining taste value, texture, and appearance.

CONCLUSION

Applying 180 kg K2O ha−1 of K fertilizer ensured high rice yields and taste quality, providing a basis for the production of high‐yield and high‐quality rice. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Corrosion Behavior of 110SS Steel in Self‐Generated Acid at High Temperature
Authors: Du Juan , Zou Qi , Chen Pengfei , Shi Yiquan , Liu Pingli , Liu Jinming , Yuan Yaoshun , Chen Xiang , Shu Hui
Published: December 2024

The corrosion behavior of hydrogen sulfide corrosion‐resistant alloy steel 110SS in the self‐generated acid system at (ultra‐) high temperature was studied. The results of the weight loss experiment showed that the corrosion rate of 110SS steel decreased with the increase of temperature at 120°C–200°C. The comprehensive study of SEM‐EDS and XPS showed that FeCO3 was formed on the surface of 110SS steel. With the increase in temperature, FeCO3 became dense, and the corrosion rate of self‐generated acid decreased. In addition, when the temperature is 120°C, the results of weight loss experiment and 3D laser scanning show that the corrosion of 110SS steel is strong, and the corrosion phenomenon is inhibited after adding oleic imidazoline. SEM and electrochemical experiments show that the oleic imidazoline corrosion inhibitor can be stably adsorbed on the surface of 110SS steel and reduce its corrosion in the self‐generated acid.
Eco‐Labels and Sales Mode Selection Strategies for E‐Commerce Platform Supply Chain
Authors: Yao Fengmin , Li Bing , Lv Yang , Qin Xu‐dong
Published: December 2024

The E‐commerce platform supply chain (EPSC) is maturing as a result of the platform economy's growth, and an increasing number of eco‐friendly producers are joining E‐commerce platforms to increase the sales of their eco‐friendly goods. However, without an information disclosure mechanism, customers find it challenging to completely comprehend or grasp the green information on items. Eco‐labels, as a green declaration symbol, can effectively reduce the information asymmetry between consumers and manufacturers. This paper establishes four game models for the EPSC under industry and government labels, considering the reselling and agency selling modes. The effects of consumers' green perceptions, eco‐label credibility, and R&D cost coefficient on the operation of EPSC, consumer surplus, environmental quality improvement, and social welfare were analyzed. We find that the enhancement of consumers' green perceptions and eco‐label credibility are beneficial for improving the product's greenness, increasing the profit of the E‐commerce platform, consumer surplus, environmental quality improvement, and social welfare, but it may not necessarily be beneficial for the manufacturer and the overall profitability of EPSC. Additionally, the profitability of the E‐commerce platform, consumer surplus, environmental quality improvement, and social welfare are more susceptible to shifts in consumers' green perceptions, whereas increasing the eco‐label credibility is more beneficial to the revenues of the manufacturer and EPSC. From the perspective of pursuing profits, the industry label is often chosen by the manufacturer, whereas the E‐commerce platform tends to choose the government label. Whether the optimal sales mode selection strategy of the manufacturer under the eco‐label is beneficial to the E‐commerce platform also depends on the size of unit production cost, commission rate, and consumers' green perceptions (eco‐label credibility). Moreover, EPSC benefits most from the reselling mode under the industry label, whereas consumer surplus, environmental quality, and social welfare are better served by the reselling mode under the government label. Conversely, the manufacturer is more likely to decide to resell the product under the government label when the R&D for green products is highly challenging.
Exploring the Influencing Factors of Digital Transformation: Empirical Results From SMEs in China
Authors: Shao Qigan , Jiang Changchang , Liou James J. H. , Su Peiyao , Yuan Ying , Dan Zhu
Published: December 2024

Digital transformation has become a crucial strategic initiative to advance high‐quality development among small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries. However, existing research lacks a comprehensive analysis of the complex causal mechanisms underlying successful digital transformation in SMEs. This study aims to uncover the drivers of digital transformation in SMEs and identify effective pathways for their digital adoption. Utilizing the push–pull–mooring (PPM) theory, this research applies necessary condition analysis (NCA) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) on a sample of SMEs to investigate the influencing factors and pathway choices for digital transformation in China. The findings indicate that digital infrastructure, technological innovation capability, digital talent, and market competitive pressure are essential conditions for advancing digital transformation in SMEs. Two primary pathways to elevate digital transformation levels in SMEs are identified: the “Fully Element‐Driven Type” and the “Push–Mooring Effects‐Oriented Type.” Comparative analysis of different pathways reveals substitution effects among certain drivers of digital transformation. This study contributes to understanding the complex causal interplay of factors influencing digital transformation in SMEs, providing actionable insights and pathway guidance for enterprises seeking to implement digital transformation.
Surface Structured Quadrilateral Mesh Generation Based on Topology Consistent‐Preserved Patch Segmentation
Authors: Zhang Haoxuan , Li Haisheng , Wu Xiaoqun , Li Nan
Published: December 2024

Surface‐structured mesh generation is an important part of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) preprocessing stage. The traditional method cannot automatically divide the 3D surface topology in complex structures. Thus, we propose a surface‐structured quadrilateral mesh generation method based on topology‐consistent‐preserved patch segmentation. The core idea is to segment the complex 3D model into several simple parts according to mesh quality and map each part to the 2D parametric domain based on the conformal parameterization method. Then, we utilize pattern‐based topology partitioning to divide the parametric domain into multiple quadrilateral subdomains, facilitating the generation of 2D structured quadrilateral meshes. By using the inverse mapping algorithm based on barycentric weights, the generated 2D structured mesh is inversely mapped back to the 3D space. Finally, we splice each part accurately according to the structured mesh distribution. Experimental results show that our proposed method can generate higher‐quality structured quadrilateral meshes than previous methods without losing the mesh topology of the original model.
Racial disparities in gestational weight gain and adverse pregnancy outcomes among Black and White pregnant people with obesity
Authors: Kracht Chelsea L. , Harville Emily W. , Cohen Nicole L. , Sutton Elizabeth F. , Kebbe Maryam , Redman Leanne M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study of pregnant people with obesity examined two aims in testing the hypothesis that the COVID‐19 pandemic widened racial disparity in maternal health in high‐risk pregnancies; it compared by race both (1) gestational weight gain (GWG) patterns and (2) patterns of preexisting conditions and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective chart review included birth certificate and delivery records from a large women's specialty hospital in Louisiana between 2018 and 2022. Differences in preexisting conditions, GWG, and adverse pregnancy outcomes were explored across early‐, peak‐, and late‐pandemic periods using log‐linear regression and robust Poisson models.

Results

Among 7431 deliveries (54% Black), Black pregnant people had higher rates of preexisting type 2 diabetes and chronic hypertension but lower rates of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia compared to White pregnant people across all periods. Black individuals had higher prepregnancy weight and lower GWG compared to White individuals across all periods. GWG differences were not significant in peak‐ and late‐pandemic periods.

Conclusions

Black individuals with obesity started pregnancy with higher weight and more preexisting conditions but had lower GWG compared to White individuals. Exacerbated disparities in preexisting conditions demonstrate higher health risks for Black individuals during pregnancy.
Lyve1‐Driven NrasQ61R Causes Edema, Enlarged Lymphatic Vessels, and Hepatic Vascular Defects in Embryonic Mice
Authors: McDaniel C. Griffin , Fox Dermot , Pastura Patricia , Alharbi Sara , Huppert Stacey S. , Cras Timothy D. Le
Published: December 2024

Background

Kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA) is a complex lymphatic anomaly associated with a somatic activating NRAS p.Q61R (NRASQ61R) mutation. KLA is characterized by malformed lymphatic vessels that can lead to effusions and coagulopathy. The goal of this study was to generate an in vivo mouse model to determine if prenatal expression of the NrasQ61R mutation in lymphatic endothelial cells induces disease characteristics found in KLA patients.

Procedure

A Cre‐loxP system was used to conditionally express NrasQ61R in cells expressing lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (Lyve1), a marker of lymphatic and other types of endothelial cells that starts being expressed at embryonic day (E) 7.5. Because pups did not survive birth, embryos were collected at E14.5, E15.5, and E18.5 for gross analysis, histology and immunostaining, and organ whole‐mounts.

Results

Staining for NRASQ61R demonstrated robust recombination in the NrasQ61R mutant embryos and localization of NrasQ61R at sites of vascular abnormalities. NrasQ61R mutant embryos had significant edema and dysmorphic jugular lymph sacs with abnormal Lyve1‐positive cellular masses. The lymphatic vessel network in the back skin of the NrasQ61R mutant embryos had fewer branch points and increased vessel diameter. NrasQ61R mutant embryos had severe hepatic defects characterized by disordered and enlarged vessels. By E18.5, NrasQ61R mutant embryos were dead.

Conclusions

Conditional expression of NrasQ61R in Lyve1‐positive cells caused edema, abnormal lymphatic development, and hepatic vascular defects in mouse embryos. These findings further support the role of NRASQ61R as a driver of the lymphatic overgrowth, vessel enlargement, and dysfunction in the pathophysiology of KLA.
Study on interlayer properties of multilayer complex structures of graphene papers/harness satin weave glass fibers/epoxy reinforced composites with electric heating de‐icing
Authors: Wang Xuemin , Li Yong , Chen Songxue , Han Bing , Shi Jiaqi , Qiu Yue , Zhu Chunling
Published: December 2024

The graphene electrothermal de‐icing system has attracted extensive attention due to its efficient anti‐icing/de‐icing ability, but the interlayer properties of the heating layer are relatively weak. Currently, there is limited research on the interlayer properties of multilayer complex structures of graphene papers (GPs)/glass fibers (GFs)/epoxy (EP) reinforced resin composites (GPs/GE). In this study, a GPs/GE sandwich structure was prepared using a vacuum bag molding, and the effects of fabric structure and core material on the interlaminar mechanical properties of the sandwich structure were studied using the T‐peel test. A multiscale morphological investigation was conducted to analyze the crack growth and failure modes in the sandwich structures. The results indicated that the fabric structure caused anisotropy in the interlaminar peel performance of the composite material. The weft fibers contributed to inhibiting crack propagation. The GPs/GE achieved the highest peel strength of 0.533 N/mm under the (0,90)s layup configuration. The peel performance of GPs/GE was only 5.5% lower than that of conventional metal sandwich composite materials. In addition, GPs demonstrated the advantage of being lighter and thinner within the composite material. Through co‐curing bonding, the T‐peel performance of the GPs/GE sandwich structure was improved by 72.2%, thereby solving the problem of weak interlayer properties of the heating layer.

Highlights

Damage and failure mechanisms at different GPS/GE interfaces were explained.

The fabric structure resulted in anisotropy in the peel performance of GPs/GE.

The area ratio and arrangement of GPs influenced the stress distribution.

GPs/GE exhibited excellent interlayer properties after co‐curing bonding.
To what extent can the drilling process affect the drilling performance in Al‐mesh/GFRE hybrid composites?
Authors: Seif Amr , Fathy A. , Awd Allah Mahmoud M. , Mahmoud Samy F. , Saleh Dalia I , Megahed A. A.
Published: December 2024

A critical step in the bolted connection assembly of hybrid composites is drilling. Drilling effectiveness is influenced by the interaction between the structural constitution of the composite and the type of the drilling process. The performance of traditional (TD) and abrasive water jet (AWJ) drilling of glass fiber (GF) and hybrid glass fiber/aluminum‐mesh composites with two distinct Al patterns (AGF: with Al at the surface layer and GFA: with Al in the center) has been examined, with a focus on drilling performance. Delamination (), out of roundness (), Bearing strength (), and taper angle () are the quality criteria. The experimental studies were conducted under controlled parameters for TD (feed rate, speed and point angle) and for AWJ (water pressure, stand‐off distance and traverse speed) utilizing Taguchi L9 OA. TD method produced superior performance, with decrease of 10.75%, improved by 84.26%, and increased by 20.14%. While AWJD provides minimal thermal impacts, it produces increased and more variations in hole geometry owing to its sensitivity to specimen structures and processing parameters. The outcomes provided guidance for applications in aerospace and manufacturing, indicating that optimized TD is better suited for applications requiring high hole quality, and cost‐effectiveness.

Highlights

A comparative study of traditional and non‐traditional drilling processes.

AWJD produces larger , less precise, and is affected by material properties.

The TD showed compatibility for uses needing superior performance and quality.
Teacher–Student Relationship and Academic Achievement Among Adolescents: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Luo Yun , Yu Xintian , Tang Yuan , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2024

The current study investigated the mediating role of academic engagement in the association between the teacher–student relationship and academic achievement, and whether self‐control moderates the mediating process. The sample consisted of 1411 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 16.77 years, 543 boys) aged between 11 and 19 years. Self‐reported questionnaires were used to collect data. The results show that (1) the teacher–student relationship has a significant positive predictive effect on adolescents' academic achievement; (2) academic engagement has a positive mediating effect between the teacher–student relationship and academic achievement; and (3) the indirect effect of the teacher–student relationship on adolescents' academic achievement through academic engagement is moderated by self‐control, in which self‐control plays a role as a protective factor, and the indirect effect is more significant for adolescents with low self‐control than for those with high self‐control. These findings extend our understanding of how teacher–student relationships influence academic achievement among adolescents. The results have theoretical and practical value for guiding educational work in schools and improving the academic achievement of adolescents.
Heat‐sterilizable antibody mimics designed on the cold shock protein scaffold from hyperthermophile Thermotoga maritima
Authors: Amesaka Hiroshi , Tachibana Marin , Hara Mizuho , Toya Shuntaro , Nakagawa Haruki , Matsumura Hiroyoshi , Hirata Azumi , Fujihashi Masahiro , Takano Kazufumi , Tanaka Shun‐ichi
Published: December 2024

Antibodies and antibody mimics are extensively used in the pharmaceutical industry, where stringent safety standards are required. Implementing heat sterilization during or after the manufacturing process could help prevent contamination by viruses and bacteria. However, conventional antibodies and antibody mimics are not suitable for heat sterilization because they irreversibly denature at high temperatures. In this study, we focused on the refolding property of the cold shock protein from the hyperthermophile Thermotoga maritima (TmCSP), which denatures at elevated temperatures but regains its native structure upon re‐cooling. We designed and constructed a mutant library of TmCSP in which amino acid residues in its three surface loops were diversified. From the library, mutant TmCSPs that bind to each of eight target proteins were selected by phage and yeast surface display methods. We confirmed that the secondary structure and binding affinity of all the selected mutants were restored after heat treatment followed by cooling. Additionally, freeze‐drying did not impair their binding affinity. The crystal structure of a mutant TmCSP in complex with its target, the esterase from Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius, revealed specific interactions between them. These results clearly demonstrate the feasibility of creating heat‐sterilizable antibody mimics using TmCSP as a scaffold.
Intravitreal Administration of Avacincaptad Pegol in a Nonhuman Primate Model of Dry Age‐Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Fujii Rintaro , Matsushita Mayumi , Itani Yoshitaka , Hama Aldric , Natsume Takahiro , Takamatsu Hiroyuki
Published: December 2024

The lack of effective treatments for dry age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is in part due to a lack of a preclinical animal model that recapitulates features of the clinical state including macular retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration, also known as geographic atrophy (GA). A nonhuman primate model of GA was developed and its responsiveness to an approved treatment, avacincaptad pegol (ACP), a complement C5 inhibitor, was evaluated. Intravitreal (ivt) administration of sodium iodate (SI) into one eye of male Macaca fascicularis leads to retinal areas (mm2) of hyper‐ or hypo‐autofluorescence. Qualitative changes to the retinal structure over time were observed with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). Six days after SI administration, prior to treatment, mean (± SEM) GA of all eyes was 8.2 ± 1.8 mm2. Following randomization to treatment groups, either vehicle or ACP was ivt injected and treatment was continued every 4 weeks, for a total of four treatments. Sixteen weeks after SI administration, the GA area in vehicle‐treated eyes was 18.9 ± 6.6 mm2, whereas GA in ACP‐treated eyes was 11.4 ± 4.0 mm2, a reduction by about 36%. Increased, followed by decreased, overall macular thickness was observed with OCT over time following SI administration. Treatment with ACP did not change alter macular thickness thinning. Geographic atrophy‐like lesions that expand over time are observed following SI administration. The current macaque model could be utilized to further explore the mechanism of dry AMD and to develop more novel therapeutics.
CeJAZ3 suppresses longifolene accumulation in Casuarina equisetifolia, affecting the host preference of Anoplophora chinensis
Authors: Yang Hua , Jiang Lijuan , Bao Xiaochun , Liu Haolan , Xu Qianle , Yao Xingliang , Cai Shouping , Fang Yu , Su Jun , Li Jian
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Casuarina equisetifolia, a crucial species of coastal windbreaks, is highly susceptible to infestation by Anoplophora chinensis. This stem‐boring pest poses a significant threat to the health and sustainability of Casuarina equisetifolia forests. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the host preference of A. chinensis to Casuarina equisetifolia is essential for developing effective pest management strategies.

RESULTS

Through field surveys, we identified two cultivars of Casuarina equisetifolia that exhibited differing levels of host preference for A. chinensis. Further analysis of multi‐omics data (phenomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics) from these cultivars revealed that longifolene plays a significant role in attracting A. chinensis to Casuarina equisetifolia. Additionally, the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway was found to suppress longifolene accumulation, primarily through the interaction between the jasmonate ZIM‐domain (JAZ) proteins and the terpene synthase (TPS) gene. Moreover, we identified a critical JAZ component, CeJAZ3, whose overexpression led to the down‐regulation of TPS expression levels and, consequently, a reduced release of longifolene.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed that the negative regulator of host preference, CeJAZ3, in the JA signaling pathway can suppress the expression of TPSs, thereby down‐regulating the accumulation of longifolene in Casuarina equisetifolia and indirectly suppressing the attraction of host plants to A. chinensis, which provides a basis for the integrated management of A. chinensis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanical Properties of a Stability‐Enhancing Honeycomb with Double‐Platform Stresses and Variable Stiffness
Authors: Liu Xu , Liu Hai‐Tao , Wang Shun
Published: December 2024

Herein, a stability‐enhancing honeycomb (SEH) is designed based on the diabolo‐shaped honeycomb (DSH). SEH is obtained by adding wedge‐shaped parts to the DSH, which improves the stability of honeycomb deformation. The inclusion of the variable stiffness region imparts variable stiffness properties to the honeycomb. The combined effect of the variable stiffness region and the wedge‐shaped part eliminates the buckling phenomenon during honeycomb deformation. The results demonstrate that the honeycomb generates double‐platform stresses during deformation, and the specific energy absorption (SEA) increases rapidly after entering the variable stiffness region. The effects of the variable stiffness region, wedge‐shaped part, and crossbar length on the mechanical properties of SEH are analyzed using a finite‐element model, which is validated through compression experiments. Adjusting the variable stiffness region changes the strain of the variable stiffness. Modifying the wedge‐shaped part affects the magnitude and corresponding strain of the second plateau stress in the honeycomb. As the length of the crossbar increases, the stress and SEA gradually decrease. This article provides a design concept for variable stiffness honeycombs and offers insights to improve their effectiveness in protective engineering.
Examining the sensitivity of ECMWF IFS weather forecasts to sea‐ice coupling for the summer‐time Arctic and cyclones
Authors: Croad Hannah L. , Keeley Sarah P. E. , Methven John , Harvey Ben , Volonté Ambrogio
Published: December 2024

In recent years there has been an advance towards coupled Earth‐system models for weather forecasting. For example, the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts now implements ocean–ice coupling with dynamic sea ice in the Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) at all time ranges. This has the potential to improve weather forecasts in the polar regions, where sea ice influences the overlying atmosphere directly by turbulent exchange, especially in the rapidly warming summer‐time Arctic where thinner and more mobile ice is susceptible to rapid change. In this study, we investigate the sensitivity of IFS (cycle 47r1) weather forecasts to sea‐ice coupling representation in the summer‐time Arctic by comparing three sets of forecasts that are coupled with (i) dynamic sea ice in operational configuration, (ii) static sea ice, and (iii) dynamic sea ice with additional thermodynamic (surface temperature and albedo) coupling. It is found that dynamic sea ice improves predictions of sea ice and the ice edge compared with persistence, especially in the vicinity of Arctic cyclones. The dynamic sea‐ice forecasts exhibit lower near‐surface temperatures (up to 0.5 °C) compared with static sea‐ice forecasts where ice loss has occurred, and differences in near‐surface winds of up to 0.5 , consistent with changing surface roughness over the marginal ice zone. The forecasts with additional thermodynamic coupling have near‐surface temperatures that are up to 1 °C cooler over ice than the operational configuration (correcting a known warm bias), consistent with a more stable boundary layer (BL) and weaker near‐surface winds. The influence of sea‐ice coupling above the BL is small, with differences in cyclone forecasts being smaller than the spread of the operational ensemble. This study highlights the influence of ocean–ice coupling in weather forecasts for the summer‐time Arctic, and the potential gains from improving its representation.
Is Cain more able? A behavioral perspective on the relationship between family CEO birth order and family firms' CSR
Authors: Rovelli Paola , Razen Michael , Benedetti Carlotta , Schweiger Nina , De Massis Alfredo , Matzler Kurt
Published: December 2024

Research Summary

We investigate family CEO birth order as an antecedent of family firms' CSR behavior. Despite psychology literature recognizing it as a key predictor of individual behavior, birth order has been largely neglected in management research. Drawing on behavioral economics and evolutionary psychology—specifically, the Family Niche Model—we identify economic and social preferences as two competing channels through which birth order effects propagate to CSR behavior. An unbalanced panel dataset of 550 firm‐year observations from 84 family firms between 2010 and 2022 reveals a negative relationship between family CEO birth order and CSR behavior, pointing to the dominance of the economic channel, whereby the higher risk tolerance among later borns manifests. This relationship is positively and negatively moderated by family CEO sibship size and age, respectively.

Managerial Summary

We examine the role of family CEO birth order in shaping family firms' CSR behavior considering that individuals' economic and social preferences are strongly influenced by their birth order. The results show that family CEO birth order negatively relates to CSR behavior. We argue that this relationship is driven by higher risk tolerance among later‐born family CEOs, who are consequentially less inclined to adopt CSR behavior as a risk‐mitigating strategy. The relationship is attenuated by family CEO sibship size and amplified by CEO age. Our study cautions family firms concerned with CSR to carefully consider the implications of birth order when selecting family members for the CEO position. Concurrently, family CEOs should be aware that their early family experiences may affect their CSR decisions.
Prodrug Self‐Assemblies Based on Plant Volatile Aldehydes with Improved Stability and Antimicrobial Activity Against Plant Pathogens
Authors: Hu Gaohua , Zhou Zhiyuan , Tang Gang , Liu Yulu , Zhang Xiaohong , Huang Yuqi , Yan Guangyao , Xiao Jianhua , Yan Weiyao , Li Jianqiang , Cao Yongsong
Published: December 2024

Plant volatile aldehydes (PVAs) such as cinnamaldehyde (Cin), citral (Cit), citronellal (Citr), and perillaldehyde (Per) have broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity and show great potential in agricultural sustainable production. However, most PVAs not only have very high volatility but also are easily degradable in environment, which seriously restricts their wide application. To address the inherent problems with PVAs, four prodrugs based on PVAs are fabricated by conjugating individually Cin, Cit, Citr, and Per to sodium bisulfite (Sod) through a simple addition reaction and subsequently self‐assembled into nanoparticles (prodrug self‐assemblies) in aqueous solutions. The results showed that pH of 7 and temperature of 35 °C are the optimal conditions for the formation of the prodrug self‐assemblies with the highest self‐assembly rates. The prepared prodrug self‐assemblies are spherical nanoparticles with average particle sizes of 100–200 nm, almost no volatilization, and high surface activity and stability, and can respond to acidic and redox microenvironments to release PVAs. The prodrug self‐assemblies showed synergistic antimicrobial activities against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Penicillium digitatum, and good biological safety to plants. Therefore, these findings have important implications for the efficient utilization of PVAs in agriculture, ensuring the safety of the ecological environment and realizing the sustainable development of agriculture.
Regulating Carbon Vacancies and Undercoordinated Mo Sites in Mo2C Catalysts Toward Photo‐Thermal Catalytic Conversion of Biomass Into H2 Fuel
Authors: Chen Yan , Cheng Miao , Ma Chi , Wang Zi‐Yi , Tang Ji‐Ping , Li Naixu , Guan Jie , Yuan Yong‐Jun
Published: December 2024

The conversion of biomass into chemical fuels is exciting but quite challenging in the development of an effective conversion strategy to generate easily‐separated products without energy consumption. Herein, a lignocellulosic biomass‐to‐H2 conversion system via photo‐thermal catalysis over Mo2C hierarchical nanotube catalysts in an acidic solution, in which the lignocellulose is hydrolyzed to small organic molecules (such as glucose, etc) by dilute H2SO4, and then the resulting glucose is oxidized by Mo2C catalyst to generate H2 are reported. During the photo‐thermal catalytic processes, the carbon vacancy in Mo2C catalysts results in the generation of undercoordinated Mo sites, which act as active sites for both biomass oxidation and H2 generation reactions. Thus, the successful photo‐thermal catalytic conversion of common agricultural and forestry biomass including polar wood chip, bamboo, wheat straw, rice straw, corncob, and rice hull into H2 fuel is realized, and the highest H2 generation rate achieves 30 µmol g−1 h−1 in the wheat straw system. Outwork affords efficient noble‐metal‐free catalysts with adjustable active sites for photo‐thermal catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into H2.
Nanomaterials‐Enabled Sensors for Detecting and Monitoring Chemical Warfare Agents
Authors: Kilani Mohamed , Mao Guangzhao
Published: December 2024

Despite their restrictions under international treaties, many chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and their toxic analogues are still used in various industrial sectors such as agriculture and chemical manufacturing. Thus, the need for sensitive and selective CWA detection remains critical. Commercially available detection methods, while accurate, are often bulky, expensive, and require specialized personnel. Sensors incorporating nanomaterials present a promising alternative, offering rapid, portable, and cost‐effective detection due to their unique properties, such as high surface area and tunable reactivity. This review covers the four main CWA categories: nerve agents, blister agents, blood agents, and choking agents, highlighting recent progress in nanosensor development for each category. It discusses various sensing mechanisms employed, including fluorescence, colorimetry, chemiresistivity, electrochemistry, and Raman spectroscopy. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly regarding the scalability, stability, and selectivity of nanomaterials‐based sensors in complex environments. The review concludes by emphasizing the need to address these challenges and explore novel nanomaterials, the development of scalable nanomanufacturing techniques, and the integration of artificial intelligence to fully unlock the potential of nanomaterials in CWA sensing for homeland security and personal safety.
Enhancing Stability and 6C Fast Charging in µSi||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 Lithium‐Ion Batteries Using Conductive Binders With Multiple Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Hu Kangjia , Wang Zhangci , Xu Henghui , Huang Yunhui , Hu Xianluo
Published: December 2024

Micro‐sized silicon (µSi) anodes are an attractive alternative to graphite for high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their low cost and high specific capacity. However, they suffer from severe volume expansion during lithiation, leading to fast capacity decay and poor rate capability. Herein, a new hybrid binder featuring a cross‐linked conductive network and multiple hydrogen bonds for µSi anodes with high areal capacity is reported. This binder demonstrates multi‐scale synergistic effects, including robust binder‐derived solid electrolyte interphase, multiple networks to mitigate electrode pulverization and efficient ion/electron transfer pathways. As a result, the µSi anodes exhibit long‐term cyclability and exceptional rate performance, achieving a high specific capacity of 1481.3 mAh g−1 at 12 A g−1 and maintaining 960.5 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1. When paired with the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode, the µSi||NCM811 full cell delivers an impressive capacity of 145.8 mAh g−1 under fast 6C charging conditions, along with high Coulombic efficiency during cycling. This research presents an effective strategy for enabling fast charging and stable cycling in high‐energy µSi‐based LIBs.
Making Accessible and Attractive Porosities in Block Copolymer Nanofibers for Highly Permeable and Durable Air Filtration
Authors: Ji Xuzheng , Bian Ye , Zhang Chencheng , Zhong Zhaoxiang , Wang Yong
Published: December 2024

Submicron particulate matter (PM) can penetrate deeply into human tissue, posing a serious threat to human health. However, the electrostatic charge of commercial respirators is easily dissipated, making it difficult to maintain long‐term filtration. Herein, a hierarchically porous filter based on nanofibers with accessible porosity and particulate‐attractive surfaces, achieving significant filtration performance is developed through polarity‐driven interactions. This is achieved by selective swelling of electrospun nanofibers of the block copolymer of polysulfone and poly(ethylene glycol) (PSF‐b‐PEG), in which the originally solid nanofibers are 3D perforated with the PEG chains lined along the pore walls. Thus‐produces nanofiber filters exhibit a long‐term continuous filtration with an efficiency of over 95% for PM0.3 and a low pressure drop of only 40 Pa. In particular, it maintains superior filtration performance even under high particle concentrations and high humidity conditions. Additionally, the filter exhibits high air permeability (10814 m3 m−2 h−1 kPa−1) and water vapor transmission rate (3707 g m−2 d−1). This work provides new strategies and understandings on the development of porous structures simultaneously exhibiting high gas permeability and efficient particulate rejection.