bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating homelessness support – developing a relational understanding
Authors: Clark Michael , Cornes Michelle , Tinelli Michela , Coombes Jo , Burridge Stan , Wittenberg Raphael , Carlisle Jess , Harris Jess
Published: December 2024

Purpose

People experiencing homelessness often have multiple health and other support needs, requiring complex, coordinated support. Admission to hospital is potentially an opportunity to address these needs and begin integrating care, but so often it is a missed one. Our purpose in this research was to evaluate an ongoing, roll-out programme that offered government funding to 17 “test sites” across England to develop integrated care as part of post-discharge “step-down” support. In this paper, we examine senior stakeholder experiences of seeking to implement integrated care as part of specialist step-down care.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we focus on data collected in interviews with key stakeholders (N = 10) who managed the mobilisation of local out of hospital care models for people experiencing homelessness. Interviews were conducted and analysed from a relational perspective, that is focusing on relationships between interactants, through which, for example, identities, understanding and integrating practice emerge.

Findings

A relational perspective on the data provides insights to better understand the complexity of integrating care at the point of hospital discharge for people experiencing homelessness.

Research limitations/implications

Although in depth, the data were limited to certain perspectives on the issues. Other perspectives and data collection from in-depth study of case sites would be invaluable in developing the empirical evidence base for a relational understanding of integrating care.

Practical implications

A relational perspective highlights the emergent and ongoing nature of integrating care in this context of support for people experiencing homelessness. The need for different system agents to work to be constantly enacting the desired support is crucial to understanding future system changes for integrating care.

Originality/value

This is the first paper developing a relational analysis of integrating care. It highlights a different theoretical perspective on the issues and important insights.
Green high-performance work systems and green service innovation: moderated mediation model of decent work and climate change skepticism
Authors: Zulfiqar Sehar
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Based on the ability-motivation-opportunity (AMO) framework, this paper develops and tests a moderated mediation model to investigate how and when green high-performance work systems (GHPWS) lead to green service innovation (GSI). For this purpose, the current study examines the mediating role of decent work (DW) and the moderating role of climate change skepticism (CSS) in the relationship between GHPWS and GSI.

Design/methodology/approach

Overall data collected from 262 Pakistan banking employees analyzed through the SPSS PROCESS macro supports this model.

Findings

Findings suggest that GHWPS increased GSI through DW. The positive effect of DW on GSI was particularly high for the employees with low CCS.

Research limitations/implications

Theoretically, this study expands knowledge in sustainable business practices and human resource management. Practically, it offers organizations strategies to integrate sustainability into their operations. This study implies that human resource management must be realigned with the overall organizational sustainability strategy to adopt environmental innovations. Along with the commercial and economic outcomes, this research has implications for public policy by advocating for practices that support environmental sustainability and DW. Societally, it promotes awareness of the importance of sustainability in business, which has a potential ripple effect on public attitudes and improves quality of life through environmental preservation.

Originality/value

This study provides unique insights into the employees’ doubts about anthropogenic climate change and the importance of organizations implementing GHPWS toward cultivating DW and GSI in the context of developing countries.
Convective heat transfer analysis for magnetohydrodynamics Reiner–Philippoff nanofluid flow over a curved stretching surface: non-similar solution
Authors: Iqbal Jamshaid , Abbasi Fahad Munir
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The primary purpose of this research is to investigate the flow and heat transfer characteristics of non-Newtonian nanofluids, specifically Reiner–Philippoff (R-Ph) fluids, across a radially magnetized, curved, stretched surface. By considering factors such as Brownian motion, thermophoresis and viscous dissipation, the study aims to enhance the understanding of heat transfer mechanisms in various engineering and industrial applications, thereby contributing to improved thermal management strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the local non-similarity method to analyze the flow and thermal behavior of R-Ph nanofluids over a radially magnetized, curved, stretched surface. The governing system is simplified using suitable transformations, and a local non-similarity approach is applied to treat non-dimensional partial differential equations as ordinary differential equations. The resulting system is numerically solved by employing the Bvp4c algorithm via MATLAB. Various dimensionless parameters, such as thermophoresis and magnetic numbers, are systematically varied to evaluate their impact on the velocity, concentration and temperature profiles of the nanofluid.

Findings

The results indicate that the concentration profile of the nanofluid improves with increasing thermophoresis and magnetic numbers, while it decreases with higher Schmidt and Bingham numbers. The velocity of the nanofluid decreases with larger magnetic numbers and curvature parameters but increases with the R-Ph fluid and Bingham numbers. Additionally, the temperature profile shows a decreasing trend for higher curvature and Bingham numbers while rising with higher Brinkman and magnetic numbers. The Sherwood number increases with Schmidt number, thermophoresis and Brownian motion parameters.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel analysis of R-Ph nanofluids in the context of curved stretching surfaces under magnetic fields, contributing to the understanding of non-Newtonian fluid dynamics. The use of the local non-similarity method to transform and solve the governing equations offers a fresh perspective on heat transfer phenomena. The findings have significant implications for various fields, including engineering, electronics and biomedical applications, by enhancing thermal efficiency and performance in systems utilizing nanofluids.
The green effect: how brand positioning fuels sustainable purchasing
Authors: Goestiawan Gelvin , Anastasia Njo
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The construction of homes to meet the primary needs of society results in a surge of harmful gas emissions into the ecosystem. Globally, the construction sector alone contributes a staggering 39% of gas emissions, underscoring the urgent need for green innovation to mitigate their adverse impacts. The concept of green living emerges as a strategy to address this challenge. Consequently, this research aims to delve into the influence of green brand positioning and perceived financial risk on the purchase intention of green residential properties, with attitude toward environment as a mediating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a quantitative associative approach, employing a purposive sampling technique to target consumers aged at least 21 years old who live in Indonesia. Data are collected through online questionnaires distributed via Google Forms, garnering responses from 269 participants. Data are processed using PLS-SEM with the SmartPLS 3.0 program for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The research findings reveal that both functional and emotional positioning have a significant impact on attitudes toward environmental concerns. However, green positioning does not exhibit such influence on these attitudes. Moreover, attitude toward environmental issues significantly affects purchase intentions, although perceived financial risk does not. This study also intimates that functional and emotional positioning significantly influence purchase intention, with attitude toward environment as a mediating variable.

Practical implications

Consumer priorities lie in the functional and emotional attributes of the green homes they purchase, while environmental consciousness needs to be heightened. However, investing in green living often entails bearing higher costs, thus creating financial constraints on consumers. This condition also calls for ongoing education and advocacy initiatives to bolster consumer awareness of green living practices, fostering consumer environmental awareness and active participation in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Originality/value

Research on green living remains limited in Indonesia due to insufficient understanding and low environmental awareness. It is imperative to address this issue to foster a deeper understanding of green concepts and promote environmentally conscious behavior on a wider scale.
2-Dimensional strain mapping and post curing effects on viscoelastic properties of glass fiber infused photocurable composites prepared using Vat-photopolymerization process
Authors: Moharana Annada Prasad , Dixit Amit Rai
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of different post-curing times on the mechanical properties, specifically the visco-elastic characteristics, Poisson’s ratio and modulus, of three dimensional (3D) printed photopolymer composites (PPCs) reinforced with short glass fibres (SGF).

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses digital light processing-based Vat-photopolymerization process to 3D print PPCs reinforced with SGF at volume fractions of 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%. An inter-stage stirring process was used to reinforce the SGFs in a layer wise fashion. After printing, the parts undergo post-curing for 20, 60 and 100 min. The mechanical properties are then analyzed using dynamic mechanical analysis and in situ optical measurements. In addition, two-dimensional strain mapping from digital image correlation techniques is used to assess the structural behavior.

Findings

This study found that composites with 4% SGF reinforcement achieved the highest storage modulus, approximately 1,550 MPa, after 60 and 100 min of post-curing. In addition, the Poisson’s ratio of these composites increased from 0.2 to 0.41 with rising temperature. By applying Poisson’s ratio correction, the modulus was observed to be 1,800 MPa. These results indicate that optimal SGF content and post-curing times significantly enhance the mechanical properties of 3D-printed PPCs.

Originality/value

This research uniquely combines the reinforcement of photopolymers with SGFs at varying volume fractions and the detailed analysis of post-curing times to enhance the mechanical properties of 3D printed PPCs.
The evaluation of Congo red staining combined with fluorescence microscopy in the diagnosis of primary cutaneous amyloidosis
Authors: Song Hanqing , Cheng Yin , Wang Xiuqin , Hong Xinyi , Guo Ze , Li Hui , Li Li , Wang Peiguang
Published: December 2024

Primary cutaneous amyloidosis (PCA) is a chronic pruritic skin disease. The apple‐green birefringence of Congo red‐stained amyloid under a polarized light microscope (CR‐PLM) remains the gold standard in the diagnosis of PCA. However, there are some limitations to this approach. In this study, eighty‐two paraffin‐embedded biopsy skin samples were collected from patients with a clinical diagnosis of PCA. The sections were respectively stained with hematoxylin–eosin (HE), crystal violet (CV), and Congo red (CR) and observed under a light microscope. CR‐stained sections were also observed under a polarized light microscope (CR‐PLM) or an ultraviolet (UV)‐emitted fluorescence microscope (CR‐UFM). Further, 35 cases clinically diagnosed with psoriasis, lichen planus, and prurigo nodularis were selected as the negative control group. The positive rate of amyloid protein detected by CR‐UFM (81.71%) was significantly higher than that detected by CR‐PLM (70.73%, p = 0.004), CR staining (56.10%, p < 0.001), CV staining (30.49%, p < 0.001), or HE staining (28.05%, p < 0.001). In the control group, 34 (97.14%) cases were negative for amyloid deposits in CR staining, CR‐PLM, and CR‐UFM sections. The relative number of positive dermal papillae observed by CR‐UFM (0.35 ± 0.27) was much more than that observed by CR‐PLM (0.15 ± 0.17, p<0.001), CR staining (0.12 ± 0.16, p < 0.001), CV staining (0.07 ± 0.12, p < 0.001), or HE staining (0.05 ± 0.12, p < 0.001). The intensity of fluorescence by CR‐UFM was significantly greater than that of the appl‐green birefringence by CR‐PLM (p < 0.001). Moreover, the amyloid was easily distinguished from the surrounding tissues using the CR‐UFM method. In conclusion, the CR‐UFM method was superior to CR‐PLM, CR staining, CV staining, and HE staining in diagnosing PCA.
Shining the light on marine infrastructure: The use of artificial light to manipulate benthic marine communities
Authors: Schaefer Nina , Hoey Andrew S. , Bishop Melanie J. , Bugnot Ana B. , Herbert Brett , Mayer‐Pinto Mariana , Sherman Craig D. H. , Foster‐Thorpe Cian , Vozzo Maria L. , Dafforn Katherine A.
Published: December 2024

In urbanised areas, marine infrastructure alters natural light regimes, creating habitats that are permanently shaded, affecting the community structure of settling and resident biota. While applications of artificial lights have been suggested to minimise impacts of shading or manipulate community composition for specific aims (e.g. carbon capture, biosecurity), their use has not been evaluated.

We used two field experiments to test the effect of artificial light of low (1 × 20,000 lumen light) and high (3 × 20,000 lumen light or 1 × 66,000 lumen light) intensities (7 AM–7 PM on–off cycle) on benthic communities on marine infrastructure. Specifically, we assessed whether artificial lights (i) led to the development of communities similar to those under natural light conditions, (ii) enhanced the abundance of algae and discouraged invertebrates (functional groups that are inversely impacted by shade) and whether (iii) the extent to which artificial lights impact marine communities varies across environmental settings (high and low turbidity) where natural light availability differs. Impacts were assessed on new (two sites) and established communities (one site). We also assessed the effect of artificial light on predation/herbivory pressure using a caging experiment at the low turbidity site.

For new communities developing on bare substrate in low turbidity conditions, low intensity artificial light resulted in similar communities to bare substrate exposed to natural light levels. High intensity artificial light increased algal cover beyond communities developing in natural light. Caging increased the cover of algae and invertebrates across all treatments. In turbid locations, artificial light (high and low) increased algal abundance, though to a lesser extent. The addition of artificial light had limited effects on established benthic communities.

Synthesis and applications. Our experiments indicate that artificial lights can be effective in reversing effects of shading, but that targeted outcomes (e.g. increased algal or reduced invertebrate cover) are limited to bare substrates and low turbidity environments where more light is available, and algae are naturally abundant.
Examining the effectiveness of a video‐based parent–child program on executive functions for children 5 to 6 years old: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lau Eva Yi Hung , Wu Xiao‐yuan , Siu Carrey Tik Sze , Williams Kate E. , Bautista Alfredo
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Parent–child Brain Camp, a 4‐week video‐based executive functions (EFs) training program for children ages 5–6, through a randomized controlled trial with a pre‐ and post‐test design with 173 Hong Kong children (intervention ni = 79, 48.7% girls, Mage = 69.16 months; control n = 94, 56.4% girls, Mage = 68.58 months) in 2022. Results from the two‐way mixed ANOVA revealed that while the main effect of the Group was not significant, the main effect of Time (ηp2 = 0.232) and the Time × Group interaction effect (ηp2 = 0.038) were significant, with the intervention group demonstrating greater improvements in EFs compared to the control group.
Lending Relationships of Firms for a Just Transition
Authors: Saharti Mohammed , Saeed Asif , Chaudhry Sajid M. , Nasir Muhammad Ali
Published: December 2024

This paper examines lending dynamics for firms aiming for a “just transition”. Analyzing 37,426 firm‐year observations from DealScan and Refinitiv's environmental, social and governance (ESG) transition data (2002–2021), we find that lenders offer lower interest rates to firms with prior relationships and strong ESG commitments, particularly environmental ones. While environmental factors receive favourable treatment, economic and governance transitions are less prioritized. Lenders tend to form more dispersed syndicates when supporting firms focused on ESG transitions, especially environmental ones. This research highlights the uneven focus within ESG transitions and emphasizes the underexamined area of governance, providing insights into lending relationships.
Risk factors for fatality in jump racing Thoroughbreds in Great Britain (2010–2023)
Authors: Allen Sarah E. , Taylor Sally , Given James , Verheyen Kristien L.
Published: December 2024

Background

The British horseracing industry is committed to reducing equine fatalities in jump racing. Race‐related fatalities are a major welfare concern and threaten the sport's social licence to operate.

Objectives

To describe the risk of, and determine risk factors for, fatality in British jump racing.

Study design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

Analyses included all starts made in British jump races between January 2010 and April 2023. Available information for each horse, race, racecourse, trainer and jockey was collated and combined with details of all fatalities recorded by official veterinary officers in a central database. A fatality was defined as any post‐start veterinary event that resulted in the sudden death or euthanasia of a horse within 48 h of racing. Risk factors (n = 101) were evaluated using mixed‐effects logistic regression. Data for steeplechase and hurdle starts were analysed separately.

Results

The overall fatality rate was 5.9 per 1000 steeplechase starts (n = 836/141 922; 95% CI 5.5–6.3) and 4.5 per 1000 hurdle starts (n = 1096/242 486; 95% CI 4.3–4.8). In both race types, fallers (steeplechase: OR 28.7, 95% CI 23.0–35.8; hurdle: OR 41.4, 95% CI 32.9–52.0) and older horses (steeplechase: OR 1.1 per extra year, 95% CI 1.1–1.2; hurdle: OR 1.2 per extra year, 95% CI 1.1–1.2) had higher odds of fatality. In steeplechase racing, starts made in summer (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.5) and by non‐GB trained horses (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4–3.0) experienced higher fatality odds. In hurdling, maiden races (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0–1.6) were at higher odds of fatality. In both race types, softer going decreased the odds of fatality. Approximately half of the unexplained variation in fatality odds was attributable to horse.

Main limitations

Analysis was restricted to routinely recorded race‐day factors and performance history.

Conclusions

Reducing the risk of falling and racing on softer ground could substantially decrease fatalities in jump racing.
Enhanced adsorption of Cr(VI) from wastewater by utilizing sludge and reed to prepare ceramsite modified with Fe3O4
Authors: Gao Xin , Jian Shouwei , Li Baodong , Huang Jianxiang , Dai Fei , Peng Bo , He Xinxin , Chen Jiaxuan
Published: December 2024

A large amount of wastewater containing Cr(VI) is highly toxic and harmful to the environment, which requires effective treatment. In this study, an adsorbed ceramsite was prepared from dredged sludge (DS) and reed powder (RP). Then the prepared ceramsite was introduced Fe3O4 magnetic functional groups by a simple hydrothermal method to enhance the adsorption of Cr(VI) from wastewater. Batch adsorption experiments of Fe3O4‐modified ceramsite (FCS) to remove Cr(VI) were studied systematically. Effects of different contact time, adsorbent mass and initial Cr(VI) concentration on Cr(VI) removal efficiency were investigated and optimized by a response surface methodology. The results show that when the loading content of Fe3O4 is 30% (FCS‐0.3), the highest removal efficiency of Cr(VI) reached 88.48%, and the Cr(VI) adsorbed process can be well described by pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and Langmuir model, indicating that adsorption process is a chemisorption and monolayer adsorption. Moreover, the FTIR, XPS and Zeta potential analysis further revealed the mechanism of efficient removal of Cr(VI) by Fe3O4 loaded onto the ceramsite to increase the specific surface area and functional groups to adsorb Cr(VI). This study provides an effective method to convert solid waste such as DS and RP into a highly efficient magnetic adsorbent to adsorb and remove Cr(VI) from wastewater.
Galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose‐presenting bacterial families are associated with resistance to experimental avian malaria infection
Authors: Noble R. K. , Kelly T. R. , R. Lattin C.
Published: December 2024

The gut microbiome can contribute to host health through defense against pathogens. However, links between the host gut microbiome and resistance to infection have been primarily investigated in humans and lab‐bred rodents, so we do not know to what extent this relationship exists in wild animals. To fill this knowledge gap, we used an experimental malaria inoculation with Plasmodium relictum in wild‐caught house sparrows Passer domesticus (n = 18) to examine interactions of the host gut microbiome and resistance to avian malaria infection. Before and after inoculation, we collected blood samples to quantify circulating parasitemia and fecal samples to evaluate the gut microbiome through amplification and sequencing of the V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. We found that gut microbiome alpha diversity (species richness and evenness) and beta diversity (community composition) were not significantly different between infected and resistant sparrows prior to or during malaria infection. However, we identified several indicator ASVs that occurred at higher prevalence and proportional abundance in malaria‐resistant sparrows, most of which were from the family Lactobacillaceae that is hypothesized to confer resistance to malaria through inducing the production of anti‐α‐Gal antibodies. Future studies should experimentally manipulate the composition of the avian gut microbiome to causally investigate the relationship between specific bacterial taxa in the host gut microbiome and resistance to avian malaria infection.
Phylogeny of Arbacia Gray, 1835 (Echinoidea) Reveals Diversification Patterns in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
Authors: Courville E. , Mongiardino Koch N. , Jossart Q. , Moreau C. , Mooi R. , Lessios H. A. , Diaz A. , Martinez Salinas A. , Saucède T. , Poulin E.
Published: December 2024

Aim

The aim of the current study is to conduct a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the genus Arbacia to elucidate the evolution and phylogenetic relationships among all extant species and reevaluate the presence of geographic structure within species that have wide, fragmented distributions.

Location

Specimens of Arbacia were collected from 34 localities spanning the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

We obtained sequences from three mitochondrial markers (COI, 16S and the control region and adjacent tRNAs) and two nuclear markers (28S and 18S; the latter ultimately excluded from the final analyses). Phylogenetic trees were constructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches. A time‐calibrated phylogenetic tree was inferred using a relaxed Bayesian molecular clock and three fossil calibration points.

Results

Our analysis supports the monophyly of the genus Arbacia, including the species Arbacia nigra (previously assigned to the monotypic genus Tetrapygus). The new phylogenetic topology suggests an alternative biogeographic scenario of initial divergence between Atlantic and Pacific subclades occurring approximately 9 million years ago. The dispersal and subsequent diversification of the Pacific subclade to the southeast Pacific coincides with the onset of glacial and interglacial cycles in Patagonia. In the Atlantic subclade, the split between A. punctulata and A. lixula occurred 3.01–6.30 (median 3.74 million years ago), possibly associated with the strengthening of the Gulf Stream current connecting the western and eastern Atlantic. Our study also reveals significant genetic and phylogeographic structures within both Atlantic species, indicating ongoing differentiation processes between populations.

Main Conclusion

Our study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and biogeography of the genus Arbacia and highlights the complex interplay between historical climate changes and oceanic currents in shaping the distribution and diversification of echinoids in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Daily and seasonal changes in steroidogenic markers in the hypothalamus and testes of tree sparrow (Passer montanus)
Authors: Yatung Subu , Trivedi Amit Kumar
Published: December 2024

The population responds to environmental variability largely determined by the dynamic interactions between fitness components within‐ and among‐individual variation in the expression of the environmentally sensitive phenotype. The study was conducted on daily and seasonal changes in the expression of steroidogenic gene markers and corresponding seasonal changes in the physiological characters in adult male tree sparrows. Two experiments were performed. In experiment one, birds (n = 5/time points) were sampled during the breeding season at 6‐time points, i.e., ZT1, ZT5, ZT9, ZT13, ZT17, and ZT21 [Zeitgeber time (ZT) 0 = sun rise time at the respective time of the year], and daily variation in expression of steroidogenic markers was observed in hypothalamus and testes tissues. In experiment two, birds (n = 5/month) were sampled every month at mid‐day for a year. Body mass, bill color, testes size, and molt in feathers were recorded. The hypothalamus and testes tissues were used for gene expression studies. Blood plasma cholesterol and testosterone levels were measured. Higher testicular volumes were recorded from March to May, whereas maximum molt was observed during the post‐breeding phase. Plasma cholesterol levels were highest before the breeding phase. Higher testosterone levels corresponded with the breeding phase. Higher expressions of thyroid‐stimulating hormone subunit beta (tshβ), type 2 deiodinase (dio2), and gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (gnrh) during the breeding phase and higher expression of type 3 deiodinase (dio3) and gonadotropin‐inhibitory hormone (gnih) were observed during the non‐breeding phase. The steroidogenic transcripts showed seasonal changes in their expression in the hypothalamic and testicular tissue and were upregulated either during the pre‐breeding or breeding phase. The study reveals that mRNA levels of steroidogenic enzymes exhibit daily rhythmicity both in the hypothalamus and testis tissues. Further, steroidogenic transcripts show seasonal variations that correspond to the annual reproductive cycle of the tree sparrow (Passer montanus).
Putting cultural mismatch theory to the test: Cultural fit of self‐construal in predicting student outcomes
Authors: Yılmaz Erdem , Phalet Karen , De Leersnyder Jozefien
Published: December 2024

Socioeconomic and ethnicity‐based achievement gaps plague education. Both sociological theories and recent social‐psychological work consider cultural mismatches between schools’ and students’ ways of being and relating (i.e., self‐construal) as a potential mechanism. However, stringent empirical evidence remains lacking. Drawing on a sample of 5076 Belgian adolescents, this study aims to provide rigorous and robust novel evidence by (i) establishing high SES and ethnic majority group average patterns of self in relation to their teacher; (ii) calculating students’ ‘fit’ with these dominant group's patterns; and (iii) linking fit indices to objective and subjective achievement scores. As expected, fit with both high‐SES and ethnic majority self‐patterns were significantly positively related to achievement. Our findings suggest hitherto less visible systemic barriers to equal attainment due to engrained school practices that selectively value and reward majority middle‐class self‐ways. One way to promote equity in education is recognising and reforming such practices in schools.
Using veterinary health records at scale to investigate ageing dogs and their common issues in primary care
Authors: Jackson J. , Radford A. D. , Belshaw Z. , Wallis L. J. , Kubinyi E. , German A. J. , Westgarth C.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The UK dog population is living longer, raising concerns about their welfare as a result of ageing‐related diseases. Our primary objective was to determine when dogs enter the “old age” life stage based on free‐text clinical narratives in veterinary electronic health records. In addition, to identify common conditions documented during consultations with old dogs.

Materials and Methods

Regular expressions were developed for: ageing, elderly, geriatric, senior and old. These were used to search the veterinary clinical narratives within a large database of veterinary electronic health records. A sample of 1000 consultations were then read, and those confirmed as being old age classified according to a modified scheme based on the World Health Organization International Classification of Disease 10th Revision.

Results

A total of 832 old age dogs were identified. The age at which veterinary professionals considered dogs to be in old age was over 7.25 years in 95% of patients (median age 12.5 years). This age varied among the most common breeds, with cocker spaniels being younger (median 11.7 years) compared with Jack Russell terriers (14.1 years). Weight‐related (289/832 consultations, 35%), musculoskeletal (278, 33%), dental (254, 31%), integumentary (235, 28%) and digestive (187, 22%) conditions were most common. The odds of a dental condition were greater (odds ratio: 2.71, 95% confidence interval: 1.38 to 5.31) and musculoskeletal condition less (odds ratio: 0.36, 95% confidence interval: 0.17 to 0.81) in cocker spaniels than in a mixed breeds reference.

Clinical Significance

This metric applied at scale to identify old patients may provide a novel foundation for timely health interventions targeted to dogs at increased risk of developing various age‐related conditions.
Nitrogen availability in soil controls uptake of different nitrogen forms by plants
Authors: Liu Min , Xu Xingliang , Wanek Wolfgang , Sun Jian , Bardgett Richard D. , Tian Yuqiang , Cui Xiaoyong , Jiang Lili , Ma Zeqing , Kuzyakov Yakov , Ouyang Hua , Wang Yanfen
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen (N) uptake by plant roots from soil is the largest flux within the terrestrial N cycle. Despite its significance, a comprehensive analysis of plant uptake for inorganic and organic N forms across grasslands is lacking.

Here we measured in situ plant uptake of 13 inorganic and organic N forms by dominant species along a 3000 km transect spanning temperate and alpine grasslands. To generalize our experimental findings, we synthesized data on N uptake from 60 studies encompassing 148 plant species world‐wide.

Our analysis revealed that alpine grasslands had faster NH4+ uptake than temperate grasslands. Most plants preferred NO3− (65%) over NH4+ (24%), followed by amino acids (11%). The uptake preferences and uptake rates were modulated by soil N availability that was defined by climate, soil properties, and intrinsic characteristics of the N form.

These findings pave the way toward more fully understanding of N cycling in terrestrial ecosystems, provide novel insights into the N form‐specific mechanisms of plant N uptake, and highlight ecological consequences of chemical niche differentiation to reduce competition between coexisting plant species.
A systematic review of longitudinal risk and protective factors for loneliness in youth
Authors: Buecker Susanne , Petersen Kimberly , Neuber Anne , Zheng Yixuan , Hayes Daniel , Qualter Pamela
Published: December 2024

To effectively tackle loneliness in youth, prevention and intervention strategies should be based on solid evidence regarding risk and protective factors in this age group. This systematic literature review identifies and narratively synthesizes longitudinal studies of risk and protective factors for loneliness in children and adolescents aged below 25 years. A systematic literature search was conducted in October 2023 using PsycINFO and MEDLINE, resulting in n = 398 articles, with n = 105 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. The examined factors included demographic (e.g., gender), socioeconomic (e.g., income sufficiency), social (e.g., peer acceptance), mental health (e.g., depression), physical health (e.g., disabilities), health behavior (e.g., sport participation), and psychological factors (e.g., shyness). Additionally, adverse childhood experiences (e.g., child maltreatment) and environmental factors (e.g., neighborhood characteristics) were investigated. Despite the wide range of potential risk and protective factors examined, relatively few studies provided strong evidence for a prospective association with loneliness. Risk factors that were consistently identified across multiple longitudinal studies included low peer acceptance and peer victimization, depression, social anxiety, internalizing symptoms, low self‐esteem, shyness, and neuroticism. Additional replication is required to evaluate factors that have shown significant associations with loneliness in only a limited number of longitudinal studies (e.g., aggression).
Improving the Likelihood of Positive Outcomes for Survivors of Sexual Violence, Considering Intersections Between Justice, Gender, and Trauma
Authors: Bond Kim , Davis Kate
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the complex impacts of childhood abuse on survivors, emphasising how these experiences shape both individual and societal outcomes. It acknowledges the extensive and enduring effects of abuse, which extend beyond immediate physical and psychological harm to broader social and economic repercussions. The paper critically examines the difficulties of holding perpetrators accountable within the criminal justice system, where low reporting rates, high attrition, and re‐traumatization are significant challenges. Using a gendered lens, the analysis situates these issues within a broader social, cultural, and historical context, highlighting how abuse, particularly sexual abuse, is perceived and managed. A key focus is on the issue of disclosure, essential for survivors to access support and justice. However, disclosure is often hindered by fears of disbelief, stigma, and retaliation, which are exacerbated by socioeconomic factors. Even when support systems are available, low conviction rates and ongoing re‐victimisation significantly impede justice and healing, undermining the criminal justice system and support structures. The paper also discusses the wider implications of childhood abuse for public health, social services, and education. The trauma affects not only survivors' mental and physical health but also their ability to engage fully in society, impacting relationships, employment, and educational outcomes. These personal challenges lead to broader societal costs, including increased demand for healthcare and lost productivity. The paper advocates for an integrated approach that improves prevention, enhances safeguarding, and develops effective support systems, addressing both the immediate needs of survivors and systemic barriers to recovery and justice.
Consumidor y discapacidad en el Perú
Authors: Seminario-Hurtado Nuccia , Bermúdez-Tapia Manuel , Avellaneda-Vásquez Jainor
Published: December 2024

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo evaluar el tratamiento jurídico del consumidor con discapacidad en el Perú, realizando un análisis microcomparativo con países de América Latina. La metodología que se utiliza es cualitativa de tipo análisis documental, además se aplica el alcance descriptivo y los métodos dogmático-jurídico, comparativo jurídico y hermenéutico. Los resultados revelan que existen avances significativos en materia de la protección del consumidor con discapacidad; sin embargo, la falta de accesibilidad es una de las principales barreras para conocer y comprender la información de los productos y servicios. Se concluye destacando la necesidad de incorporar políticas inclusivas en los derechos del consumidor, así como promoverlos de manera accesible a partir de los principios del diseño universal.
Effect of Radial Clearance on Static and Dynamic Performances of Single-Structured Hybrid Gas-Magnetic Bearing Rotor System
Authors: Liu Qing , Wu Mingdi , Ge Ruihuan , He Weipei , Cheng Ziyu
Published: December 2024

As the demand for ultrahigh-speed bearings grows, hybrid gas-magnetic bearings (HGMBs) have emerged as a research focus due to the ability to integrate the merits of active magnetic bearings (AMBs) and gas bearings (GBs). However, HGMBs face challenges related to complex structure and manufacturing. This study emphasizes the critical role of radial clearance in HGMB design, as excessive clearance reduces GB load capacity and stability. In contrast, insufficient clearance increases the risk of rotor–stator contact and is prone to thermal runaway failure or bearing seizure. This work investigates the comprehensive performance of HGMBs with varying clearances. The results show that radial clearance significantly influences GB and HGMB load capacities, with a 30-μm clearance increasing GB capacity up to 16.8 times compared to 150 μm at 46 krpm. Increasing radial clearance also reduces total losses in AMB, GB, and HGMB, notably decreasing GB air friction loss by up to 80.1%. The AMB/HGMB total loss increases tremendously with rotor eccentricity, especially in larger radial clearances. In addition, higher clearances lead to increased instability and vibration, with GB being the most sensitive. HGMBs exhibit superior startup stability, while zero-bias HGMBs and AMBs face challenges with increasing radial clearance. These findings highlight the importance of considering radial clearance effects and provide valuable insights for HGMB design, promoting advancements in this technology and engineering applications.
Evidence of spillover benefits from large-scale marine protected areas to purse seine fisheries
Authors: Lynham John , Villaseñor-Derbez Juan Carlos
Published: December 2024

Global tuna fisheries are valued at more than $40 billion, with the majority of this value derived from purse seine fisheries. Recently created large-scale marine protected areas are potentially big enough to protect highly migratory species such as tuna, possibly leading to increases in abundance (a conservation benefit) and consequent spillover near protected area boundaries (an economic benefit). Using publicly available data from nine large-scale marine protected areas across the Pacific and Indian oceans, we find that catch-per-unit-effort in tuna purse seine fisheries has increased by an average of 12 to 18% near protected area boundaries, and this increase declines with distance from the boundaries. The increase is larger for bigeye tuna (
Thunnus obesus
) than for skipjack tuna (
Katsuwonus pelamis
), in line with fisheries science simulation models.
Indigenizing conservation science for a sustainable Amazon
Authors: Levis Carolina , Rezende Justino Sarmento , Barreto João Paulo Lima , Barreto Silvio Sanches , Baniwa Francy , Sateré-Mawé Clarinda , Zuker Fábio , Alencar Ane , Mugge Miqueias , Simon de Moraes Rodrigo , Fuentes Agustín , Hirota Marina , Fausto Carlos , Biehl João
Published: December 2024

Dialogues between Western and Indigenous systems are critical
A long noncoding eRNA forms R-loops to shape emotional experience–induced behavioral adaptation
Authors: Akiki Rose Marie , Cornbrooks Rebecca G. , Magami Kosuke , Greige Alain , Snyder Kirsten K. , Wood Daniel J. , Herrington Mary Claire , Mace Philip , Blidy Kyle , Koike Nobuya , Berto Stefano , Cowan Christopher W. , Taniguchi Makoto
Published: December 2024

Emotional experiences often evoke neural plasticity that supports adaptive changes in behavior, including maladaptive plasticity associated with mood and substance use disorders. These adaptations are supported in part by experience-dependent activation of immediate-early response genes, such as
Npas4
(neuronal PAS domain protein 4). Here we show that a conserved long noncoding enhancer RNA (lnc-eRNA), transcribed from an activity-sensitive enhancer, produces DNA:RNA hybrid R-loop structures that support three-dimensional chromatin looping between enhancer and proximal promoter and rapid
Npas4
gene induction. Furthermore, in mouse models,
Npas4
lnc-eRNA and its R-loop are required for the development of behavioral adaptations produced by chronic psychosocial stress or cocaine exposure, revealing a potential role for this regulatory mechanism in the transmission of emotional experiences.
In good hands: A case for improving robotic dexterity
Authors: Billard Aude G.
Published: December 2024

Twenty-first-century roboticists envision robots capable of sorting objects and packaging them, of chopping vegetables and folding clothes. But although many today believe that the only factors necessary for robots to achieve dexterous manipulation are data and artificial intelligence (AI), managing all the mundane manipulations that humans perform daily requires constant adaptation to changing conditions. These operations include tasks demanding millisecond-level responses to prevent irreparable damage, such as quickly stabilizing a slipping package or halting a knife just before it cuts into a table. Although recent advances in intelligent robot control have considerably expanded—and will continue to expand—the range and complexity of tasks that robots can perform, AI, data, and control theory alone are not enough. A brain cannot manipulate items effectively without a body—and specifically hands—suited to the task.
Breakdowns of the year
Authors: Enserink Martin , Malakoff David , Kupferschmidt Kai , Stokstad Erik
Published: December 2024

What went wrong in the world of science
In Science Journals
Authors: Ash Caroline , Vignieri Sacha , Grocholski Brent , Smith Keith T. , Smith H. Jesse , Charneski Catherine , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Ray L. Bryan , Funk Michael A. , Szuromi Phil , Simonti Corinne , Hurtley Stella M. , Maroso Mattia , Isles Hannah M.
Published: December 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
China’s ‘dreamy’ scientific drilling ship takes global command
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: December 2024

As U.S. leadership falters,
Meng Xiang
prepares for bold mission to retrieve rocks from Earth’s mantle
De novo-
assembled long-read genomes of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strains in commerce
Authors: Shwed P. S. , Anoop V. , Leveque G.
Published: December 2024

Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strains NRRL Y-1646, Red Star, and VL3 are commercial yeast strains for baking and fermentation. These long-read genome assemblies will serve to better understand structural variation and biological properties of these strains.
Geochronology and provenance of the Huangyangling Formation in the East Kunlun orogen, NW China: Insight from detrital zircon and calcite cement records
Authors: Qi Nan , Li Yixiong , Dong Yunpeng , Li Nuo , Aibai Abulimiti , He Xiheng , Zhang Zhengfeng
Published: December 2024

The Huangyangling Formation in the East Kunlun area, central China, is an important host for numerous Sb(-Hg) deposits. Locally, it can contain up to 11 ppm Sb (in comparison to the 0.2 ppm in the continental crust) and thus is ascribed as a potential source of ore-forming materials. However, the age and detrital source of the Huangyangling Formation are poorly constrained. In this study, we report new mass spectrometry U-Pb dating of both detrital zircon and calcite cement from sandstones of the Huangyangling Formation, which hosts the large Xiao’erkule Sb deposit. Detrital zircons from three samples can be classified into three subtypes: magmatic, metamorphic, and hydrothermal. The youngest zircons of the first two subtypes yielded a weighted mean age of 255.3 ± 3.6 Ma, which is consistent with the age of calcite cement within error, i.e., 253.2 ± 21.1 Ma (n = 45; mean square of weighted deviates [MSWD] = 0.41). Combined with the presence of paleontological fossils, the deposition of the Huangyangling Formation should be no earlier than 255 Ma. An additional set of 10 hydrothermal zircons produced a weighted mean 206Pb/238U age of 211.1 ± 2.8 Ma (MSWD = 0.78), which possibly records the age of the hydrothermal alteration and mineralization at the Xiao’erkule deposit. Most detrital zircons (110 out of 252) yielded ages between 524 Ma and 252 Ma, suggesting a dominant Paleozoic detritus source. When compared with surrounding terranes, the Tarim block to the northwest is the most probable source for the Huangyangling Formation material. The results thus indicate the presence of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean between the North Qiangtang block and Tarim block or East Kunlun orogen during the late Permian.
The onset of continental weathering recorded in Archean banded iron formations
Authors: Wang Changle , Robbins Leslie J. , Peng Zidong , Zhang Lianchang , Wan Bo , Konhauser Kurt O.
Published: December 2024

Early landmass emergence impacted marine chemistry and biosphere evolution by supplying nutrients through continental weathering. However, uncertainties persist regarding the timing of emergence and onset of early continental weathering. We present a compilation of germanium (Ge) and silicon (Si) in banded iron formations (BIFs) to assess Archean weathering. By leveraging the inverse correlation between Ge/Si ratios and Si contents in BIFs, we interpolate the evolution of Archean seawater Ge/Si for the first time. Our analyses reveal a stepwise decrease in Ge/Si, from near-hydrothermal values to those resembling continental input, at ca. 3.5 Ga. Based on a Ge-Si mass balance model, we propose that this shift is attributable to increased riverine fluxes, coinciding with the rapid emergence of continental crust. Significantly, this implies that two crucial prerequisites for the establishment of a marine biosphere were fulfilled in the early Archean: (1) the presence of marginal marine environments suitable for benthic and planktonic communities; and (2) a supply of terrestrially sourced nutrients.
Supplemental Material: Inception of ridge-ridge-ridge triple junctions: Morphostructural analysis and dynamics in the early back-arc extension of the northern Okinawa Trough
Authors: Koge Hiroaki , al. et
Published: December 2024

Detailed bathymetric images, explanations of the analytical methods and processing steps, and selected seismic reflection profiles aligned with the bathymetry.  
Supplemental Material: New age constraints support a K/Pg boundary interval on Vega Island, Antarctica: Implications for latest Cretaceous vertebrates and paleoenvironments
Authors: Roberts Eric M. , al. et
Published: December 2024

Figures S1–S7 and Tables S1 and S2.