bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Company R&D: Does It Add Value to the Bottom Line?
Authors: Clementz David M. 
Published: November 2024

Summary
Company R&D can add value to the bottom line if it is focused. Every project needs a goal. The goals can be long-term, but they need to be present to focus the energy and resources on solving problems that matter. To achieve this focus, companies must develop strategies that take advantage of their technical competence. They must design processes that will link their internal capabilities to the needs of their internal market and also to external capabilities. They must build an organization around those processes that will enable it to function efficiently and effectively. When this is complete, they can fill the organization with the resources needed to meet the current and future demands.

Background
Recent cutbacks in R&D spending in the petroleum industry have caused many people to ask, "Why?" There have been many articles, letters to editors, and symposia dedicated to this topic in the last few years. They seem to be asking similar questions. Why, in an industry that is dependent on technology for its future, would there be such a significant drop in investment for R&D? Is R&D "under siege" from the tyranny of short-sighted business-unit managers? Is it "easy pickings" for the cost cutters? Is the industry so mature that it does not need much R&D? Or, is there a natural evolution under way toward a more focused, more commercially relevant form of R&D? In other words, is the sun rising or setting on R&D in the petroleum industry?
Some have suggested that we are witnessing the end of an era for corporate scientific research laboratories in the U.S. The petroleum industry is not immune to these changes. However, the premise of this article is that a new era is dawning. Company R&D (i.e., that which is internal to an oil or gas company) can add value if we can define our expectations for it and for the measures of that value. The industry still needs R&D but is demanding it in a new form. Company R&D has a future if it can adapt and change.
Quantifying key drivers of marine pyrite burial flux and isotopic composition
Authors: Mertens Cornelia , Paradis Sarah , Hemingway Jordon 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pyrite formation and burial in marine sediments decreases atmospheric CO2 and increases O2 levels. However, the sedimentological conditions that control pyrite burial remain poorly constrained, precluding quantitative reconstructions of sulphur cycle regulation on atmospheric compositions. Building on updated understanding of pyrite isotope dynamics, here we provide mechanistic insight by developing a non-dimensional diagenetic model that extracts the natural variables governing pyrite formation rates and sulphur isotopic compositions (δ34S values). Both properties are controlled by the local ratios of organic carbon content to sulphate concentration and organic carbon reactivity to sedimentation rate; formation rate is additionally sensitive to reactive iron delivery. Using only globally interpolated boundary values as inputs, our model accurately predicts signals recorded in a validation dataset of 216 sediment cores from diverse environmental settings across the modern ocean. Extrapolating this, we estimate a global pyrite burial flux of 7.0 × 10^12 mol S yr^-1 (sensitivity test range: 2.5 × 10^12 to 19.0 × 10^12 mol S yr^-1) with a weighted-average δ34S value of -4 ‰ VCDT (range: -8 to +3 ‰ VCDT). This flux is substantially larger than that of terrestrial pyrite oxidation (1.3 × 10^12 mol S yr^-1), indicating that the sulphur cycle is currently not in steady state, but rather described by net pyrite burial and thus atmospheric O2 accumulation. Finally, we utilise this model framework to invert the geologic pyrite δ34S record and assess changes in sedimentological properties and pyrite burial flux throughout the Phanerozoic Eon.
IGFBP3-mediated M2 Macrophage Polarization Enhances Resistance to Rosiglitazone and Cisplatin in Breast Cancer
Authors: Gao Chunyi , Li Gang , Hu Tianhui , Guohua Wang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Rosiglitazone (PPARγ agonist, RGZ) combined with chemotherapy drugs has proven effective in treating clinical breast cancer patients. However, the underlying targets and resistance mechanisms remain unclear, posing challenges in maintaining long-term efficacy. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of RGZ in macrophage polarization and evaluate its effects within the TME.
Methods
In vivo experiments were conducted using a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) nude mouse model resistant to chemotherapy, which simulates the clinical immune microenvironment. In vitro, the Thp-1 human monocytic cell line was induced to differentiate into macrophages and cocultured with MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells. The effects of PPARγ agonists on the drug resistance of breast cancer cells in a coculture model were explored.
Results
An increase in M2 macrophages was observed in combination-resistant mice, with PPARγ activation by RGZ inducing macrophage differentiation toward the M2 phenotype. Knockdown of IGFBP3 in macrophages alleviated breast cancer cell resistance in the microenvironment by reversing polarization.
Conclusion
Our study revealed that targeting macrophage polarization through IGFBP3 can reverse the effects of PPARγ on macrophage polarization, promote cancer cell apoptosis and collectively reverse the resistance of tumor cells to combination therapy. These findings provide a new theoretical basis for anti-breast cancer treatment.
The Health Promoting Sports Coach: Theoretical background and practical guidance
Authors: Tezier Benjamin , Barros Kévin , Geidne Susanna , Bardid Farid , Grieco Spartaco , Johnson Stacey , Kokko Sami , Lambe Barry , Lefebvre Arthur , Lane Aoife , Ooms Linda , Seghers Jan , Sevdalis Vassilis , Whiting Stephen , Vuillemin Anne , Hoye Aurélie Van 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The organised sport setting is a key context for health promotion, but it can also be associated with risky behaviours. Sports coaches play a crucial role in supporting the health of sport participants but often lack the resources and support to do so. This paper proposes a guide to help coaches become health promoters by defining their key actions in line with the Health Promoting Sports Club model. An embedded mixed-method study with a QUAL (qual) design was used, where 15 experts took part in 5 meetings and 299 coaches provided input through an online survey. Four steps were carried out: (1) defining the health-promoting sports coach and key action principles, (2) co-constructing progression stages using the settings-based approach, (3) identifying key actions for promoting health in different coaching moments, and (4) developing long-term intervention components. A definition of the health-promoting sports coach was produced, and eight key action principles have been identified, divided into three dimensions: connection with the system, adoption of a coaching philosophy, and focus on participants. Five stages of progression for integrating health promotion into coaching have been established, ranging from risk prevention to a global approach involving the entire sports system. Specific actions for each moment of coaching (before, during and after training, and competition) have been determined, such as ‘monitoring the physical, mental and social health of participants’ or ‘ensuring a cool-down, stretching, shower and proper eating after competition’. Finally, long-term intervention components to support the implementation of these actions in practice have been developed based on what coaches are already doing, the skills they possess and the five stages of progression. This paper enabled the development of a guide to help sports coaches promote health by identifying concrete actions and short- and long-term interventions, whilst making links with the health promoting sports club model. It broadens the scope of coaching by incorporating health principles, while emphasising the need to adapt to the environment and context of the club. This work calls for future research to test the effectiveness and feasibility of these approaches in various sporting environments.
Electrophysiological versus anatomical identification of midline myelotomy in intramedullary spinal cord tumors
Authors: Ashry Ahmed Hamdy , Gabr Mohamed , Ali Mohammed F.A 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
In this retrospective study we evaluated the utility of neurophysiological cord mapping in accurate identification of the midline for safe resection of intramedullary spinal cord tumors. We also determined the correlation between the anatomical and physiological midline. Eighteen patients with intramedullary spinal cord tumors underwent surgical resection at 2021–2024. We attempted to identify the midline for myelotomy using anatomical landmarks. We used phase reversal technique for dorsal cord mapping to confirm or correct the midline. Patients` demographics, surgical details and clinical outcomes were recorded. The relation between the anatomical and physiological midline was analyzed statistically.
Results
Anatomical identification of the midline failed in 6 cases necessitating neurophysiological mapping. Correction of the anatomical midline by mapping was done in 3 patients. Postoperative assessment 3 months after surgery showed improvement in 6 of 9 patients with preoperative somatosensory deficits, with no new worsening neurological functions observed.
Conclusion
Intraoperative neurophysiological mapping using phase reversal technique is an essential tool to accurately locate the midline during resections of intramedullary spinal cord tumors particularly in cases with ambiguous anatomical landmarks.
Dynamic and calving response of a major Greenland ice stream to a propagating subglacial flood
Authors: Wehrlé Adrien , Lüthi Martin , Kneib-Walter Andrea , Nap Ana , Rousseau Hugo , Jouvet Guillaume , Walter Fabian 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Outlet glaciers are the main arteries of the Greenland Ice Sheet transporting ice from the interior towards the ocean. Understanding their dynamics is crucial in the context of accelerating Arctic warming. While glacier flow dynamics is monitored with satellites, important rapid processes remain undetected at intervals of days between acquisitions. The short-term dynamics of fast flowing glaciers therefore remains poorly understood and insufficiently constrained in
numerical models.

Here, we use high-rate field observations on Greenland's fastest ice stream, Sermeq Kujalleq in Kangia (SKK), to characterize its response to the drainage of two surface lakes. The ensuing subglacial flood caused a surface speedup pulse that efficiently propagated towards the terminus where it triggered large calving events. This full process chain has so far not been documented. Using this large and abrupt disturbance as a full-scale natural experiment, we investigate SKK's dynamic sensitivity in unprecedented detail. The undamped and fast-pace nature of the speedup pulse, together with the instantaneous response of the surrounding ice margins, indicate strong coupling within the ice stream system. Our results highlight how inland areas can accommodate large disturbances and efficiently propagate them downstream to trigger irreversible changes at dynamic glacier termini potentially prone to destabilization.
DNAJC7 expression in rat brain after a single cortical injury and in human ALS-affected brain cortex and hippocampus
Authors: Volkening Kathryn , Donison Neil , Hintermayer Matthew A , Palik Jacqueline , Fisher Jessica , Subramaniam Maegha , Duennwald Martin , Strong Michael J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

DNAJC7 is a highly conserved J-domain protein that recently was determined to have mutations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The expression of DNAJC7 in the nervous system is not well known, nor is if DNAJC7 has a role in injury. Here we characterize the expression of DNAJC7 in a rat model of traumatic brain injury in which the temporal cascade of events leading to tau pathology has been mapped. DNAJC7 expression increases after injury, with expression in neurons, astrocytes and microglia. After injury, expression selectively decreases in granular cells of CA2 in the hippocampus, and localization in neurons in the cortex moves from perikaryal into cell processes. DNAJC7 also localizes to phospho-Thr175 tau and TNT1 positive (exposed PAD) tau but dissociates rapidly from PAD exposed tau suggesting that structural change may play a role in its release. In vitro a phospho-Thr175 tau mimic (Thr175Asp) failed to immunoprecipitate DNAJC7, while phospho-null (Thr175Ala) and wildtype tau did, suggesting this phosphoresidue is likely less important for dissociation than the subsequent structural change in tau. Human brain (cortex and hippocampus from neuropathologically normal controls, ALS and ALS with cognitive impairment) was also examined for DNAJC7 expression and tau interaction. DNAJC7 expression was altered in all ALS cases with localization in cell processes, and nuclear expression in oligodendrocytes, while in only ALS cases with cognitive impairment many additional large arborized cells in the cortex and hippocampus appear to have increased DNAJC7 expression in cell processes. Wasteosomes (corpora amylacea) were also DNAJC7 positive. Taken together, DNAJC7 expression in the brain is widespread, is altered in a rat model of brain injury and in ALS and ALSci, and its dissociation from tau appears to be during or shortly after PAD exposure.
Development, Rasch Validation, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Individual's Social Responsibility Scale
Authors: Almubaddel Abdulmohsen 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to systematically develop and validate a measurement instrument for individual’s social responsibility (ISRS). It seeks to ensure robust psychometric properties and construct validity through Rasch model and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design and collected questionnaire responses from 812 individuals in Saudi Arabia through a random sample. The study collected data using demographic variables and the Arabic-language ISRS (16-items), developed and validated through Rasch analysis and CFA using the Wisntep (version 5.3.2) and AMOS (version 23) software, respectively.
The CFA results demonstrated a good fit for the model, with indices such as RMSEA (0.067) falling within the recommended range and CFI score of 0.96, exceeding the threshold of >0.95. Rasch analysis confirmed the reliability of the ISRS items and subscales, with adjustments made to the Likert scale for enhanced precision, based on the results of ISRS1, ISRS4-8, ISRS14, and ISRS16. Multidimensionality assessments revealed significant variations in explained variances, with participant hierarchy analyses supporting efficient test item targeting.
This study emphasizes the significance of community engagement, personal commitment, and social concern in fostering individual social responsibility among Saudi Arabian individuals, providing valuable insights for future research and interventions aimed at promoting social responsibility in the region.
A Nomogram for Predicting Malignancy in Small and Non-parallel BI-RADS 4A Breast Lesions: A Novel Approach for Risk Stratification and Clinical Decision Support
Authors: Li Qin , Sun Xiaowei , Deng Jing , Zhou Wenbin , Pan Hong , Zhang Kai 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) 4A breast lesions are often confusing for surgeons due to high false-positive outcomes. This study was conducted to analyze the factors of small and non-parallel BI-RADS 4A breast lesions and developed a predictive model to stratify the malignancy risk.
Methods
For this retrospective study, 282 patients were recruited in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2020 to December 2023. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors and develop a predictive model to differentiate between benign and malignant BI-RADS 4A breast lesions. The effectiveness of the model was assessed by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results
The proportion of malignant tumors was 20.6% (58/282) in this study. A diagnostic model compromised age, menopausal status, and margin was built and shown as a nomogram. The area under the ROC curve was 0.747 and 0.741 in the training and test cohort, respectively. DCA demonstrated that the model could achieve benefits for patients. Moreover, we stratified the breast lesions into low-, medium- and high-risk groups according to the malignancy risk calculated by the model. Only 10% (5/50) and 4.8% (1/21) were malignant in the low-risk group in the training cohort and test cohort.
Transcriptional Regulation of Protein Synthesis by Mediator Kinase Represents a Therapeutic Vulnerability in MYC-driven Medulloblastoma
Authors: Vibhakar Rajeev , Wang Dong , Ritz Caitlin , Pierce Angela , Veo Bethany , Luo Yuhuan , Brunt Breauna , Dahl Nathan , Suresh Ammu , Serkova Natalie , Venkataraman Sujatha , Danis Etienne , Kuś Kamil , Mazan Milena , Rzymski Tomasz 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

MYC-driven medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly aggressive cancer type with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Through CRISPR-Cas9 screening of MB cell lines, we identified the Mediator-associated kinase CDK8 as a critical regulator of MYC-driven MB. Loss of CDK8 substantially reduces MYC expression and induces pronounced transcriptional changes, consequently inhibiting MB growth and suppressing monosome assembly, resulting in decreased ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis. Mechanistically, CDK8 regulates the occupancy of RNA polymerase II at specific chromatin loci, facilitating an epigenetic alteration that promotes the transcriptional regulation of ribosomal genes. Targeting CDK8 effectively diminishes the stem-like neoplastic cells characterized by hyperactive ribosome biogenesis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the combined inhibition of CDK8 and mTOR synergizes to optimize therapeutic outcomes in vivo and in vivo. Overall, our findings establish a connection between CDK8-mediated transcriptional regulation and mRNA translation, suggesting a promising new therapeutic approach that targets the protein synthesis for MYC-driven MB.
Understanding Clean-Energy Supply Chains: A US Perspective
Authors: Dvorkin Yury , Yao Boyu , Jeong Hannah , Mehrtash Mahdi , Ockerman Daniel , Allan Bentley 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This paper examines supply chain conditions which affect the US clean energy goals. By focusing on critical raw materials for wind, solar photovoltaic, and lithium-ion battery storage technologies, we develop an optimization model to simulate supply chain conditions through 2050. The model incorporates historical growth rates from the last mineral production supercycle and critical raw material trade flows to estimate future availability. Our findings reveal that under the current trade strategy and production growth, the US may achieve only 65% of its clean energy goals, with nickel, silicon, and rare earth elements identified as key bottlenecks. This paper emphasizes that meeting clean energy goals requires not only enhancing domestic production and manufacturing capabilities for these critical materials but also strengthening international cooperation and adopting mitigation strategies to address supply chain constraints.
Aqueous secondary formation substantially contributes to organophosphate esters in aerosols
Authors: Zhang Gan , Lv Shaojun , Tian Lele , Zhao Shizhen , Jones Kevin , Chen Duohong , ZHONG Guangcai , Li Jun , Xu Buqing , Peng Ping'an 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Chemicals of emerging concern (CECs), like organophosphate esters (OPEs), are toxic substances threatening human/wildlife health. Yet the atmospheric transformation of CECs remains poorly understood. Here we combine field measurements and partitioning models to test the hypothesis that the secondary formation of OPEs could be enhanced by heterogenous processes in aerosols. We found that hydrophobic OPEs are absorbed favorably into the organic phase, whereas hydrophilic OPEs preferably partition into the aqueous phase. We provide field evidence that enhanced aqueous secondary formation of OPEs occurs in winter, and the magnitude is strongly dependent on aerosol water content. We suggest that dissolved inorganic salts and transitional metals in aerosols impact positively on the formation of particle-bound hydrophilic OPEs, by facilitating their aqueous partitioning and/or oxidation. Our findings highlight the important role of aqueous oxidation chemistry for the fate of CECs in the atmosphere, urging for a better consideration of transformation products in future risk assessment and chemicals management.
Equitable access to drinking-water: focus on European Union member states
Authors: Huber Laura , Rickert Bettina , Schmoll Oliver , Vargha Márta 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
The European Union's (EU) 2020 Drinking Water Directive (DWD) requires member states to advance equitable access to drinking-water and to promote tap water. Although access to drinking-water is high in most EU member states, disparities still exist, for example, among vulnerable and marginalized groups such as the homeless, Roma, and traveller groups. To analyze challenges and measures taken in high-income EU member states, we reviewed national reports from the UNECE/WHO Protocol on Water and Health and conducted a survey and interviews among water regulators. Reported barriers include insufficient data, a lack of mechanisms to identify vulnerable and marginalized groups, a lack of investment in rural areas, affordability concerns, and limited coordination between institutions. Measures comprise improving data on access by vulnerable and marginalized groups, introducing or revising social tariffs, and directing funding to rural areas. As the barriers are crosscutting, the involvement of all relevant institutions is crucial, and coordination and cooperation between the national and local level is indispensable. The DWD creates momentum for progressing equitable access in the EU and is expected to foster evidence-based government actions to improve equitable access to drinking-water.
Development of a 3D Geologic Model Used in the Seismic Hazard and Liquefaction Hazard Analysis of Madison County, Tennessee
Authors: Harrison Valarie Joyner , Tohidi Hamed , Van Arsdale Roy , Cramer Chris , Arellano David 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
Madison County of western Tennessee is approximately 100 km southeast of the New Madrid seismic zone and, thus, is subject to potentially dangerous seismic shaking and liquefaction events. Holocene floodplain alluvium and associated Pliocene/Pleistocene terraces of the Forked Deer and Hatchie Rivers cover a large part of Madison County. Underlying these unconsolidated sediments are approximately ∼650 m of poorly consolidated Paleogene and Cretaceous terrestrial and marine sediments, which are underlain by Paleozoic limestone bedrock. Uniform regional geology used in the 2014 United States Geological Survey seismic hazard maps assumes a homogenous seismic velocity structure above bedrock. Three-dimensional geologic mapping of the ∼700 m of Quaternary, Neogene, Paleogene, and Cretaceous sediments conducted in this study provides a more detailed velocity structure, resulting in a more accurate and detailed map of the expected ground motions in Madison County during future earthquakes. In addition, the surface geologic map reveals regions that are susceptible to liquefaction. This paper discusses the methods used to construct the surface geology map, subsurface structure contour maps, isopach maps, and 3D geologic model used in the seismic hazard and liquefaction hazard analyses of Madison County, Tennessee, and summaries of the results of these analyses are presented.