bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modeling cheatgrass distribution, abundance, and response to climate change as a function of soil microclimate
Authors: Terry Tyson J. , Hardegree Stuart P. , Adler Peter B. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractExotic annual grass invasions in water‐limited systems cause degradation of native plant and animal communities and increased fire risk. The life history of invasive annual grasses allows for high sensitivity to interannual variability in weather. Current distribution and abundance models derived from remote sensing, however, provide only a coarse understanding of how species respond to weather, making it difficult to anticipate how climate change will affect vulnerability to invasion. Here, we derived germination covariates (rate sums) from mechanistic germination and soil microclimate models to quantify the favorability of soil microclimate for cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum L.) establishment and growth across 30 years at 2662 sites across the sagebrush steppe system in the western United States. Our approach, using four bioclimatic covariates alone, predicted cheatgrass distribution with accuracy comparable to previous models fit using many years of remotely‐sensed imagery. Accuracy metrics from our out‐of‐sample testing dataset indicate that our model predicted distribution well (72% overall accuracy) but explained patterns of abundance poorly (R2 = 0.22). Climatic suitability for cheatgrass presence depended on both spatial (mean) and temporal (annual anomaly) variation of fall and spring rate sums. Sites that on average have warm and wet fall soils and warm and wet spring soils (high rate sums during these periods) were predicted to have a high abundance of cheatgrass. Interannual variation in fall soil conditions had a greater impact on cheatgrass presence and abundance than spring conditions. Our model predicts that climate change has already affected cheatgrass distribution with suitable microclimatic conditions expanding 10%–17% from 1989 to 2019 across all aspects at low‐ to mid‐elevation sites, while high‐ elevation sites (>2100 m) remain unfavorable for cheatgrass due to cold spring and fall soils.
Variation in nest survival of three species of tropical plovers in Madagascar with clutch size, age of nest, year and El Niño effect
Authors: Tanner Claire E. , Jones William , Kubelka Vojtěch , Caspers Barbara A. , Krueger Oliver , Mijoro Tafita Jaona , Sandercock Brett K. , Zefania Sama , Székely Tamás 
Published: September 2024

AbstractA combination of life history traits and environmental conditions has been highlighted as the main drivers of avian breeding success. While drivers of breeding success are well known in some species, especially birds in northern, temperate regions; species in other parts of the world have received relatively little attention. In this study, we used a long‐term dataset on breeding success of tropical plovers from south‐west Madagascar to investigate whether nest survival changed over time and whether the drivers of nest survival were similar for multiple species breeding in the same arid habitat. In the 12‐year period of 2009–2020, we monitored 2077 nests for three species with different breeding strategies: 1185 nests of Kittlitz's plovers (Anarhynchus pecuarius) with a flexible breeding strategy and uniparental care; and 565 nests of white‐fronted plovers (A. marginatus) and 327 nests of Madagascar plovers (A. thoracicus) which both have biparental care. We found that nest survival was associated with a combination of clutch‐size, age of nest and year among the three plover species. In addition, annual variation in climatic conditions associated with El Niño/La Niña events were included in the most supported survival models for Kittlitz's and white‐fronted plovers, but the effects were not significant. Overall estimates of daily nest survival were similar for all three species: Kittlitz's plover: 0.950 ± 0.002 SE, Madagascar plover: 0.919 ± 0.007 SE, and white‐fronted plover: 0.862 ± 0.047 SE. Estimates of nest success for the breeding season, based on increases in daily nest survival with the clutch age during the incubation periods (26 days for Kittlitz's plovers and 29 days for Madagascar and white‐fronted plovers), were relatively low: Kittlitz's plover: 0.161 ± 0.056 SE, Madagascar plover: 0.287 ± 0.022 SE, and white‐fronted plover: 0.228 ± 0.019 SE. All three species had a combination of factors affecting nest survival, both environmental and life history traits.
An integrative paradigm for building causal knowledge
Authors: Grace James B. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractA core aspiration of the ecological sciences is to determine how systems work, which implies the challenge of developing a causal understanding. Causal inference has long been approached from a statistical perspective, which can be limited and restrictive for a variety of reasons. Ecologists and other natural scientists have historically pursued mechanistic knowledge as an alternative approach to causal understanding, though without explicit reference to the requirements of causal statistics. In this paper, I describe the premises of an expanded paradigm for causal studies, the Integrative Causal Investigation Paradigm, that subsumes causal statistics and mechanistic investigation into a multi‐evidence approach. This paradigm is distinct from the one articulated by causal statistics in that it (1) focuses its attention on the long‐term goal of building causal knowledge across multiple studies and (2) recognizes the essential role of mechanistic investigations in establishing a causal understanding. The Integrative Paradigm, consequentially, proposes that there are multiple methodological routes to building causal knowledge and thus represents a pluralistic perspective. This paper begins by describing the crux of the problem faced by causal statistics. To understand this problem, it should be recognized that the word causal has multiple meanings and a variety of evidential standards. An expanded vocabulary is developed so as to reduce ambiguities and clarify critical issues. I further show by example that there is an important ingredient typically omitted from consideration in causal statistics, which is the known information related to the mechanisms underlying relationships being evaluated. To address this issue, I describe a procedure, Causal Knowledge Analysis, that involves an evaluation and compilation of existing evidence indicative of causal content and the features of mechanisms. Causal Knowledge Analysis is applied to three example situations to illustrate the process and its potential for contributing to the development of causal knowledge. The implications of adopting the proposed paradigm and associated procedures are discussed and include the potential for advancing ecology, the potential for clarifying causal methodology, and the potential for contributing to predictive forecasting.
Streaming electric field, electroviscous effect, and electrokinetic liquid flows in the induced pressure‐driven transport of active liquids in narrow capillaries
Authors: Das Siddhartha , Chandel Ghansham Rajendrasingh 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we develop a theory for studying the electrokinetic effects in a charged nanocapillary filled with active liquid. The active particles present within the active liquid are self‐driven, demonstrate vortex defects, and enforce a circumferentially arranged polarization field. Under such circumstances, there is the development of an induced pressure‐gradient‐driven transport dictated (similar to diffusioosmotic transport) by the presence of an axial gradient in the activity (or the concentration of the active particles). This pressure‐driven transport has a profile different from the standard Hagen–Poiseuille flow in a nanocapillary. Also, this induced pressure‐driven flow drives electrokinetic effects, which are characterized by the generation of a streaming electric field, associated electroosmotic (EOS) transport opposing pressure‐driven flow, and electroviscous effect. We quantify these effects as functions of dimensionless parameters that vary inversely as the strength of the activity‐induced pressure‐driven flow and salt concentrations. Overall, we anticipate that this paper will draw immense attention toward a new type of activity‐induced pressure‐driven flow and associated electrokinetic phenomena in charged nanoconfinements.
Effect of silane coupling agent on mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and ceramifiable behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composite
Authors: Wang Jun‐Sheng , Shang Ke , Jiang Hui‐Jing , Wang Peng‐Ju , Zhu Hai‐Bo , Lin Gui‐De , Jin Xing , Liu Dan , Zhao Bi , Yang Jin‐Jun , Fu Teng 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn order to improve the dispersibility of inorganic fillers and enhance its ceramifiable flame‐retardant efficiency, the ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites were prepared using glass powder, zinc borate, ammonium polyphosphate, mica powder, platinum catalyst as ceramifiable flame‐retardant agent, and various silane coupling agents as interfacial modifier. The micromorphology, mechanical properties, flame retardancy, thermal stability, and combustion behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites, as well as the flexural strength of the corresponding ceramics generated after pyrolysis of the composites were examined. The results reveal that the inclusion of silane coupling agents improves the dispersibility of ceramifiable flame‐retardant agents substantially. The mechanical properties, flame retardancy, thermal stability, and combustion behavior of ceramifiable flame‐retardant silicone rubber composites are all improved. When compared to a composite without a silane coupling agent, the tensile strength of the composite can be improved by up to 1.9 times. Only 0.5phr silane coupling agent is required to raise the vertical combustion rating from V‐1 to V‐0, and the composite with 3 phr KH570 has a LOI value of 38.6. Meanwhile, the heat release rate of the composite is reduced to a certain extent, and the time to ignition and residue are dramatically enhanced after the addition of silane coupling agent in the cone calorimetry test. Moreover, flexural strength of the corresponding ceramics generated after pyrolysis of the composites rapidly increases with increasing silane coupling agent content, which can reach to 24.7 MPa with addition of 3 phr KH570.
MATCH‐IT: A decision support tool for multiple comparisons presenting data from network meta‐analysis to facilitate guideline development
Authors: Hunskaar Birk S. , Løvsletten Per O. , Achille Frankie , Heen Anja F. , Agoritsas Thomas , Vandvik Per O. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIntroductionNetwork meta‐analysis (NMA) provides unprecedented opportunities to compare multiple treatment options (multiple comparisons) and are increasingly being used to inform clinical practice guidelines. However, the overwhelming amount of data generated from NMAs is challenging to present in comprehensible overviews for end‐users, guideline panelists included. Acknowledging these challenges, we developed MATCH‐IT—an interactive evidence summary displaying NMA results for multiple comparisons. In this study, we conducted user‐testing and further developed MATCH‐IT to support guideline panels in moving from NMA evidence to recommendations.MethodsWe user‐tested the tool with guideline panelists and observed the use of the tool in panel meetings. User‐testing sessions and guideline meetings were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. The analysis informed the iterative development in the tool.ResultsWe included four guideline panels and tested the tool with 15 panelists (four chairs, four methodologists, five clinical experts and two patient partners). User testing revealed both positive aspects and limitations of the tool. Interactivity allowed for dynamic display of the evidence during panels meetings and was highlighted as valuable. Further, participants felt that the tool provided overview of complex evidence, further facilitated by categorization of effects through colour coding. The inclusion of information on burden of treatment was highlighted as relevant and valuable. Regarding limitations, some users had issues discovering the interactive features. Earlier versions of MATCH‐IT did not include sufficiently detailed information, such as the imprecision of effect estimates, which the users felt was needed for decision making. These findings led to refinements of the tool, including a new tutorial, inclusion of confidence intervals, and a new layer displaying more detailed information.DiscussionOur study suggests that MATCH‐IT may play a role in facilitating guideline development by easing understanding of NMA evidence and alleviating information overload in guideline panelists.
Predictors of quality of professional life and well‐being of medical residents and interns: Role of gender and workplace spirituality
Authors: Yadollahpour Mohammad Hadi , Eydi Maral , Yaminfirooz Mousa , Gholinia Hemmat , Shahrokhi Shirin , Faramarzi Mahbobeh 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsThe well‐being of physicians in their professional lives has a major influence on the quality of medical care and patient outcomes. This study explored how Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) and psychological well‐being are connected to workplace spirituality (WPS) and demographic factors like age and gender. It also compared the average levels of ProQOL, psychological well‐being, and WPS between medical residents and interns.MethodsIn a cross‐sectional study, 230 medical residents and interns completed three questionnaires, including ProQOL, Ryff Scale Psychological Wellbeing–Short Form, and WPS. The data was analysed using Pearson correlation, independent t‐test, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression modeling.ResultsResidents and interns had moderate ProQOL levels and higher work spirituality. However, medical residents scored lower in occupational spirituality and compassionate care fulfillment compared to interns while experiencing higher levels of emotional exhaustion and secondary mental strain. Gender disparities were significant, with women scoring higher in compassionate care fulfillment but lower in secondary mental strain. Regression analysis showed that occupational spirituality positively predicted professional, compassionate care fulfillment (B = 0.910, p < 0.001) but negatively predicted emotional exhaustion in both groups.ConclusionsThese findings underscore the importance of understanding factors like gender and work spirituality to enhance the well‐being and quality of care provided by medical residents and interns.
Monetary policy transmission under pandemic uncertainty: Effect on banks' risk and capital adjustments
Authors: Toh Moau Yong , Jia Dekui 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThis paper investigates the effects of monetary policy on the simultaneous adjustments in asset portfolio risk and capital of banks amidst the uncertainty of the COVID‐19 pandemic, focusing on the 12 largest economies from 2018 Q1 to 2021 Q4. Results indicate that banks show lower portfolio risk and capital levels when the monetary policy stance is eased. However, amid heightened pandemic uncertainty, the risk‐reducing effect of monetary policy on banks amplifies, while bank capital levels remain unchanged. Heterogeneity analyses reveal that banks with higher levels of diversification and herding are more responsive to interest rates amid pandemic uncertainty, exhibiting lower risk exposure in their asset portfolios. Banks in countries adopting negative interest rate policies also tend to assume greater asset risk to accommodate the intended stimulus of monetary policies.
Climate transition risk and corporate environment, social and governance performance: Evidence from Chinese listed companies
Authors: Chen Jinyu , Qiu Yixin , Ding Qian , Geng Yuan 
Published: September 2024

AbstractUsing a sample taken from Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2010 to 2020, we explore the effect of climate transition risk on corporate environment, social and governance (ESG) performance. Our finding shows that climate transition risk promotes corporate ESG performance. In addition, we discover that equity incentives play an important positive moderating role in the above relationship. Compared with positive media tone, the positive effect of climate transition risk on corporate ESG performance is more significant under the moderating effect of a negative media tone. Further analyses find that there exists a more prominent relationship between climate transition risk and corporate ESG performance in non‐state‐owned enterprises, enterprises with more female directors, and enterprises in highly market‐oriented regions. Our findings provide a reference to improve ESG practice to achieve corporate sustainable development and provide practical suggestions for better dealing with climate transition risk.
A case of retrocaval ureter with robot‐assisted ureteral reconstruction
Authors: Hakariya Tomoaki , Aoki Daiyu , Nishimura Naoki 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionRetrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly that causes ureteral obstruction. Because of the rarity of retrocaval ureter, only a few cases of open, laparoscopic, or robot‐assisted surgery have been reported. We herein report a case of retrocaval ureter that was successfully reconstructed with robot‐assisted surgery.Case presentationA 24‐year‐old woman was incidentally diagnosed with right hydronephrosis on ultrasonography. Computed tomography revealed retrocaval ureter, and the right hydronephrosis was attributed to the retrocaval ureter. The patient underwent robot‐assisted right ureteral reconstruction in the left lateral decubitus position. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred, and no right hydronephrosis was observed 6 months after the operation.ConclusionThe present case demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of robot‐assisted ureteral reconstruction for retrocaval ureter.
Nebivolol hydrochloride and its impurities induce pseudo‐allergic reactions via mast cell activation
Authors: Yu Liju , Shan Yi , Lu Jiayu , He Huaizhen 
Published: September 2024

AbstractNebivolol hydrochloride is a third‐generation β‐blocker commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases. However, it has been reported to induce allergic reactions in clinical use which deserves much attention. Therefore, this study focused on the ability of two isomers of nebivolol and chiral isomer impurities to induce allergic reactions. Our findings demonstrate that both nebivolol and two isomeric impurities can activate mast cell degranulation in vitro and show significant retention on Mas‐related G‐protein‐coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2)‐HEK293 cell membrane chromatography. These effects were further validated in vivo, where nebivolol and impurity IP‐3 were observed to cause toe swelling and mast cell degranulation in mice. Molecular docking studies revealed interactions between these compounds and key amino acids of MRGPRX2, suggesting a mechanism for the induced allergic reactions. This work lays the foundation for improving the clinical safety of nebivolol.
Exploring Chemical Space to Identify Partial Binders Against hMPV Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Verma Monika , Panchal Nikita S. , Yadav Pramod Kumar 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTHuman metapneumovirus (hMPV) has gained prominence in recent times as the predominant etiological agent of acute respiratory tract infections. This virus targets children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Given the protracted duration of hMPV transmission, it is probable that the majority of children will have acquired the virus by the age of 5. In individuals with compromised immune systems, recurrence of hMPV infection is possible. As hMPV matures, it remains latent from the time of acquisition. The genome of hMPV encompasses a pivotal protein referred to as the nucleocapsid protein (N). This protein assumes the form of a left‐handed helical nucleocapsid, enveloping the viral RNA genome. The primary function of this structure is to protect nucleases, rendering it a potentially promising target for therapeutic advancements. The present study employs a methodology that involves structure‐based virtual screening, followed by molecular dynamics simulation at a 250‐ns time scale, to identify potential natural molecules or their derivatives from the ZINC Database. These molecules are investigated for their binding properties against the hMPV nucleoprotein. Based on an evaluation of the docking score, binding site interaction, and molecular dynamics studies, it has been found that two naturally occurring molecules, namely M1 (ZINC85629735) and M3 (ZINC85569125), have shown notable docking scores of −9.6 and −10.7 kcal/mol, acceptable RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and so on calculated from molecular dynamics trajectory associated with MMGBSA binding energy of −81.94 and −99.63 kcal/mol, respectively. These molecules have shown the highest binding affinity toward nucleocapsid protein and demonstrated promising attributes as potential binders against hMPV.
Chassis: The bottleneck to trade and transportation
Authors: Stich Bethany , Camp Janey , Mallum Faisal B. , Philip Craig , Waggener Brittany , Bullock Bailey , Moravec Miguel 
Published: September 2024

AbstractInternational trade requires efficient delivery of goods between exporting and importing countries, normally via ocean vessels. About 90% of these cargoes are transported in shipping containers to the port by truck or rail. The intermodal chassis availability is a critical component of the supply chain. This paper provides an overview of the nuances and challenges associated with the current provisioning of chassis in New Orleans, LA and Memphis, TN, through in‐depth interviews with industry professionals. Increased dwell times, inventory issues and chassis management inefficiencies over the past several years have caused expensive delays and bottlenecks at nodes of intermodal freight.