bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plerixafor for pathogen‐agnostic treatment in murine thigh infection and zebrafish sepsis
Authors: Evans Martin O. , Smith Darren M. , Kress Adrian T. , Nadeau Robert J. , Selig Daniel J. , Caridha Diana , Racharaks Ratanachat , Langowski Thomas , Madejczyk Michael S. , Carbaugh Chance , Saunders David , Widder Mark , De Meese Jason , Lee Patricia J. , DeLuca Jesse P. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractPlerixafor is a CXCR4 antagonist approved in 2008 by the FDA for hematopoietic stem cell collection. Subsequently, plerixafor has shown promise as a potential pathogen‐agnostic immunomodulator in a variety of preclinical animal models. Additionally, investigator‐led studies demonstrated plerixafor prevents viral and bacterial infections in patients with WHIM syndrome, a rare immunodeficiency with aberrant CXCR4 signaling. Here, we investigated whether plerixafor could be repurposed to treat sepsis or severe wound infections, either alone or as an adjunct therapy. In a Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced zebrafish sepsis model, plerixafor reduced sepsis mortality and morbidity assessed by tail edema. There was a U‐shaped response curve with the greatest effect seen at 0.1 μM concentration. We used Acinetobacter baumannii infection in a neutropenic murine thigh infection model. Plerixafor did not show reduced bacterial growth at 24 h in the mouse thigh model, nor did it amplify the effects of a rifampin antibiotic therapy, in varying regimens. While plerixafor did not mitigate or treat bacterial wound infections in mice, it did reduce sepsis mortality in zebra fish. The observed mortality reduction in our LPS model of zebrafish was consistent with prior research demonstrating a mortality benefit in a murine model of sepsis. However, based on our results, plerixafor is unlikely to be successful as an adjunct therapy for wound infections. Further research is needed to better define the scope of plerixafor as a pathogen‐agnostic therapy. Future directions may include the use of longer acting CXCR4 antagonists, biased CXCR4 signaling, and optimization of animal models.
How well can real‐time indicators track the economic impacts of a crisis like COVID‐19?
Authors: Ten Gi Khan , Tafere Hirfrfot Kibrom , Newhouse David , Pape Utz 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMotivationAcademicians and policy‐makers grapple with monitoring the economic impact of crises such as COVID‐19 when survey data are scarce.PurposeWe show how a set of publicly available real‐time indicators—nitrogen dioxide emissions, night‐time lights, mobile phone mobility tracking, internet searches, and food prices—tracked changes in GDP across multiple countries in 2020.Approach and methodsWe first describe the extent to which real‐time indicators captured the COVID‐19 crisis. We employ linear models, selected using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), to examine the capacity of these indicators to track GDP growth during the crisis.FindingsGoogle Mobility and staple food prices both sharply declined in March and April 2020, followed by a rapid recovery returning to baseline levels by July and August 2020. Mobility and staple food prices experienced a milder decrease in low‐income countries.Nitrogen dioxide and night‐time lights showed a similar pattern, with the steepest fall followed by a swift recovery in lower middle‐income countries.In April and May, Google search terms reflecting economic distress and religiosity spiked in some regions but not in others.Linear models explain about half of the variation in annual GDP growth in 68 countries. In a smaller subset of higher‐income countries, real‐time indicators explain about 65% of the variation in quarterly GDP growth.Policy implicationsReal‐time indicators offer several advantages in crisis monitoring, being readily available, cost‐effective, and not requiring face‐to‐face interactions, which are particularly valuable during a pandemic.
The outbreak of teak leaf blight disease caused by Alternaria alternata in the semi‐arid Bundelkhand region of India
Authors: Mushineni Ashajyothi , Yagavachintapalli Narayanaswamy Venkatesh , Yadav Akash , Alexander Balamurugan , Kumar Naresh , Venkidusamy Kavi Sidharthan , Handa Arunkumar , Ayyanadar Arunachalam , Aundy Kumar 
Published: July 2024

AbstractTectona grandis is a vital hardwood tree species with substantial industrial and economic importance. From 2020 to 2021, an unusual leaf blight disease was observed in T. grandis saplings planted in the Nursery of the Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI), Jhansi, India. Disease incidence was recorded as 50%–70% with 40%–82% severity over two consecutive years on over 1000 saplings. The leaf blight disease was extensive, leading to defoliation of young leaves and mortality of teak saplings in the nursery. The pathogen was identified as Alternaria alternata following standard laboratory procedures and sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The pathogenicity of two isolates, A. alternata TgAa1 and TgAa2, was proven under greenhouse conditions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the close association of TgAa1 and TgAa2 with other pathogenic A. alternata strains in the NCBI database. A. alternata is considered a severe foliar pathogen, known to cause leaf spot and leaf blight diseases in many annual and perennial plant species. Correct diagnosis and prevention are emphasized to contain the spread of teak leaf blight to other regions in India. This is the first report of A. alternata causing Tectona grandis leaf blight in the Bundelkhand region of India.
Microbial utilisation of maize rhizodeposits applied to agricultural soil at a range of concentrations
Authors: Niedeggen Daniela , Rüger Lioba , Oburger Eva , Santangeli Michael , Ahmed Mutez , Vetterlein Doris , Blagodatsky Sergey , Bonkowski Michael 
Published: July 2024

AbstractRhizodeposition fuels carbon (C) and nutrient cycling in soil. However, changes in the dynamics of microbial growth on rhizodeposits with increasing distance from the root is not well studied. This study investigates microbial growth on individual organic components of rhizodeposits and maize root‐derived exudates and mucilage from agricultural soil. By creating a gradient of substrate concentrations, we simulated reduced microbial access to rhizosphere C with increasing distance to the root surface. We identified distinct C‐thresholds for the activation of microbial growth, and these were significantly higher for rhizodeposits than singular, simple sugars. In addition, testing for stoichiometric constraints of microbial growth by supplementing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) showed accelerated and increased microbial growth by activating a larger proportion of the microbial biomass. Early and late season exudates triggered significantly different microbial growth responses. The mineralization of early‐season exudates was induced at a high C‐threshold. In contrast, the mineralization of late‐season exudates showed ‘sugar‐like’ properties, with a low C‐threshold, high substrate affinity, and a reduced maximum respiration rate of microorganisms growing on the added substrate. Mucilage exhibited the highest C‐threshold for the activation of microbial growth, although with a short lag‐period and with an efficient mucilage degradation comparable to that of sugars. By determining kinetic parameters and turnover times for different root‐derived substrates, our data enable the upscaling of micro‐scale processes to the whole root system, allowing more accurate predictions of how rhizodeposition drives microbial C and nutrient dynamics in the soil.
Local government enterprises climate action: An exploration of New Zealand container seaports’ climate‐related disclosure practices
Authors: Ehalaiye Dimu , Moses Olayinka , Laswad Fawzi , Botica Redmayne Nives 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis study examines voluntary climate‐related disclosure practices among New Zealand (NZ) container seaports, in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG13) on climate action. Using a uniquely constructed Climate Change Disclosure Index (CCDI) and interviews, it assesses disclosure practices aligned with the Task Force on Climate‐related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework. The CCDI results indicate a 20% average level of climate‐related disclosures. Governance (36%) is the leading thematic area, whereas others track behind with limited disclosures among the sampled hybrid seaport entities. Evidence from the interviews reveals financial and legitimacy considerations, stakeholders, and community expectations, including forthcoming regulations, to be motivations for climate‐related disclosures. However, technological limitations, Scope 3 measurement, and regulatory inconsistencies constrain progressive climate actions of these entities. The study emphasizes the need for adaptable approaches to climate change beyond policy mandates and contributes to our understanding of sustainability practices in public sector hybrid entities. The findings hold implications for SDG13 attainment and the development of climate‐related accounting standards.
Resilience and adaptation of third sector organizations (TSOs) during crisis situations: Insights from a West African economy
Authors: Fagbemi Temitope , Dosumu Oluwatoyin , Adigun Rasheed , Nakpodia Franklin , Sakariyahu Rilwan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAcross the globe, third sector organizations (TSOs) have long been recognized for their significant contributions to community support and sustainable development. However, their vulnerability to socioeconomic challenges, exemplified by the Covid‐19 pandemic, prompts a deeper examination. This study employs semi‐structured interviews to explore the resilience and adaptation strategies of TSOs operating in Nigeria, a West African country facing unique challenges. Findings reveal an intricate blend of traditional and innovative approaches, including strategic capabilities, digital citizenship, cultural dynamics, and community participation, employed by TSOs to navigate the uncertainties triggered by the Covid‐19 pandemic. By uncovering these less‐explored resilience dimensions, the study offers valuable insights for TSOs, policymakers, and scholars seeking to understand and enhance organizational resilience in challenging economic and social contexts.
Challenging deficit ideologies in Spanish heritage language policies and programs
Authors: Johnson David Cassels , Carbine Melanie , Shea Christine 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis study analyzes the programs and policies for Spanish heritage language (SHL) students in Iowa high schools. Previous research suggests that SHL students do not enjoy equitable educational experiences in Spanish language classrooms, which are often taught by and designed for traditional second language learners. In US states like Iowa, there is no language policy that provides a facilitative structure for Heritage language education, so issues of educational opportunity for SHL students are addressed locally. Teachers are, therefore, particularly influential language policy and education arbiters. In this paper, we analyze (1) how Iowa language policy is interpreted and appropriated by high school Spanish teachers and (2) the perspectives of high school Spanish teachers about Heritage language education. Findings reveal that many teachers reject the monoglossic ideologies popular in Spanish language classrooms and instead celebrate the unique verbal repertoires of their SHL students. Implications for language policy and practice are discussed.
Semi‐Analytical Modeling of Transient Stream Drawdown and Depletion in Response to Aquifer Pumping
Authors: Malama Bwalya , Lin Ying‐Fan , Kuhlman Kristopher L. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAnalytical and semi‐analytical models for stream depletion with transient stream stage drawdown induced by groundwater pumping are developed to address a deficiency in existing models, namely, the use of a fixed stream stage condition at the stream–aquifer interface. Field data are presented to demonstrate that stream stage drawdown does indeed occur in response to groundwater pumping near aquifer‐connected streams. A model that predicts stream depletion with transient stream drawdown is developed based on stream channel mass conservation and finite stream channel storage. The resulting models are shown to reduce to existing fixed‐stage models in the limit as stream channel storage becomes infinitely large, and to the confined aquifer flow with a no‐flow boundary at the streambed in the limit as stream storage becomes vanishingly small. The model is applied to field measurements of aquifer and stream drawdown, giving estimates of aquifer hydraulic parameters, streambed conductance, and a measure of stream channel storage. The results of the modeling and data analysis presented herein have implications for sustainable groundwater management.
PENSIONS, INCOME TAXES, AND HOMEOWNERSHIP: A CROSS‐COUNTRY ANALYSIS
Authors: Fehr Hans , Hofmann Maurice , Kudrna George 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe article studies the role of pensions and income taxes in determining homeownership. We develop a stochastic, overlapping generations model with tenure choice and heterogenous skill types calibrated to Germany. Then, we simulate alternative income tax and pension policy structures from the United States and Australia, since these developed nations have similar incomes per capita, but highly different homeownership rates. Our results highlight that the pension system and its financing have decisive long‐term effects on homeownership. The latter is even more significant than income tax, where labor and capital income taxation affect homeownership in opposite directions.
Drivers of genomic diversity and phenotypic development in early phases of domestication in Hermetia illucens
Authors: Hull Kelvin L. , Greenwood Matthew P. , Lloyd Melissa , Brink‐Hull Marissa , Bester‐van der Merwe Aletta E. , Rhode Clint 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens, has the ability to efficiently bioremediate organic waste into usable bio‐compounds. Understanding the impact of domestication and mass rearing on fitness and production traits is therefore important for sustainable production. This study aimed to assess patterns of genomic diversity and its association to phenotypic development across early generations of mass rearing under two selection strategies: selection for greater larval mass (SEL lines) and no direct artificial selection (NS lines). Genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data were generated using 2bRAD sequencing, while phenotypic traits relating to production and population fitness were measured. Declining patterns of genomic diversity were observed across three generations of captive breeding, with the lowest diversity recorded for the F3 generation of both selection lines, most likely due to founder effects. The SEL cohort displayed statistically significantly greater larval weight com the NS lines with pronounced genetic and phenotypic directional changes across generations. Furthermore, lower genetic and phenotypic diversity, particularly for fitness traits, were evident for SEL lines, illustrating the trade‐off between selecting for mass and the resulting decline in population fitness. SNP‐based heritability was significant for growth, but was low or non‐significant for fitness traits. Genotype–phenotype correlations were observed for traits, but individual locus effect sizes where small and very few of these loci demonstrated a signature for selection. Pronounced genetic drift, due to small effective population sizes, is likely overshadowing the impacts of selection on genomic diversity and consequently phenotypic development. The results hold particular relevance for genetic management and selective breeding for BSF in future.
Do non‐controlling blockholders with common ownership monitor controlling shareholders effectively? Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Kai , Wang Lihong 
Published: July 2024

AbstractUsing a sample of Chinese listed firms during 2007–2020, we find that non‐controlling blockholders (NCBs) with common ownership can exert effective monitoring on dominant owners' self‐dealing behaviors captured by financial misconducts related to controlling shareholders. This effect is concentrated among state‐owned enterprises (SOEs), especially for the common NCBs holding only SOEs. Finally, the monitoring effect is particularly evident when firms have more peer firms, when common NCBs hold more firms within the same industry, when common NCBs exert stronger exit threats, or when common NCBs hold long investment horizons, indicating that common ownership enhances NCBs' incentives and abilities to identify and curb controlling shareholders' misbehaviors.
The incidence of surgical site infection following major lower limb amputation: A systematic review
Authors: Al‐Saadi Nina , Al‐Hashimi Khalid , Popplewell Matthew , Fabre Ismay , Gwilym Brenig Llwyd , Hitchman Louise , Chetter Ian , Bosanquet David C. , Wall Michael L. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSurgical site infections (SSIs) following major lower limb amputation (MLLA) in vascular patients are a major source of morbidity. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the incidence of SSI following MLLA in vascular patients. This review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023460645). Databases were searched without date restriction using a pre‐defined search strategy. The search identified 1427 articles. Four RCTs and 21 observational studies, reporting on 50 370 MLLAs, were included. Overall SSI incidence per MLLA incision was 7.2% (3628/50370). The incidence of SSI in patients undergoing through‐knee amputation (12.9%) and below‐knee amputation (7.5%) was higher than the incidence of SSI in patients undergoing above‐knee amputation, (3.9%), p < 0.001. The incidence of SSI in studies focusing on patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), diabetes or including patients with both was 8.9%, 6.8% and 7.2%, respectively. SSI is a common complication following MLLA in vascular patients. There is a higher incidence of SSI associated with more distal amputation levels. The reported SSI incidence is similar between patients with underlying PAD and diabetes. Further studies are needed to understand the exact incidence of SSI in vascular patients and the factors which influence this.
Evidence of environmental niche separation between threatened mobulid rays in Aotearoa New Zealand: Insights from species distribution modelling
Authors: Ozaki Rikako , Stephenson Fabrice , Pinkerton Matthew , Finucci Brittany , Green Lydia , Penna Alice Della , Sila‐Nowicka Katarzyna 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimMobulid rays are a group of threatened batoid fishes susceptible to population decline from targeted fisheries and accidental capture. Spatial distributions of mobulid rays remain poorly known. Prior studies found commonalities between favourable environments and prey among various mobulid species, yet most were conducted in tropical waters. To explore the habitat use and distribution of mobulid rays in a temperate environment we model the habitat suitability of two mobulid rays (Mobula mobular and Mobula birostris) in Aotearoa New Zealand using fisheries and citizen science occurrence data spanning almost two decades.LocationNortheastern coast of Aotearoa, New Zealand.MethodsBoosted Regression Tree models were used to predict the annual habitat suitability and favourable environmental conditions of the two species based on available sightings records in conjunction with high resolution (1 km2) environmental data.ResultsThe sympatric study species had contrasting habitat requirements. We found a separation in their spatial distribution defined by the 200 m isobath – the onshore extent for M. birostris and the offshore extent for M. mobular. While there were only subtle variations in relative habitat suitability for M. mobular over the study period, M. birostris exhibited greater interannual variability. Despite differing interannual patterns, spatial separation, as a function of environmental properties, persisted regardless of the year.Main ConclusionsOur results suggest that associations between mobulid species may differ from tropical regions due to regional adaptations to prey availability or local environmental conditions unique to colder and more productive temperate waters. Our findings highlight the importance of multi‐species surveys and the inclusion of temporal variability in support of separate species‐specific management plans to account for differing stressors impacting each species.
Do They Matter? The Perceived Impact of European Administrative Networks
Authors: Soares Ana Carolina , Martinsen Dorte Sindbjerg , Schrama Reini 
Published: July 2024

AbstractEuropean administrative networks (EANs) are presented as key parts of the European Union's (EU) institutional architecture to monitor the national implementation and enforcement of EU legislation. However, their national impact remains little explored. In this article, we examine network members' perceptions of EANs's ability to improve the national enforcement of EU legislation and which factors may explain variation between member states. Our analysis focuses on the application of EU legislation on health and safety at work monitored by the Senior Labour Inspectors Committee. Based on unique survey data and interviews with key respondents, we find that the network is generally perceived as very important for different functions, including for improving the application of EU legislation back home – albeit to different degrees. We show that the position of individual members in the network as well as domestic resources matters for the perception of network impact.
The effect of practice environments and psychological empowerment perceptions of nurses on their care behaviours: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yilmaz Aysegul , Yilmaz Kocak Mine 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to examine the effect of professional and individual characteristics, practice environments and psychological empowerment perceptions of nurses on their care behaviours.DesignThe study used a cross‐sectional research design following the STROBE guidelines.MethodsThe sample of this descriptive and correlational study consisted of 584 nurses working in a university hospital in Turkey. The data were collected between January and June 2023 using the Nursing Information Form, the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES‐NWI), the Psychological Empowerment Scale (PES), and the Caring Behaviours Scale‐30, and analysed using descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation and multiple linear regression.ResultsIt was determined that PES‐NWI, PES and Caring Behaviours Scale (CBI‐30) scores of nurses were higher than the average. The study revealed that certain professional and individual characteristics of nurses, practice environments and psychological empowerment perceptions had an effect on their care behaviours.ConclusionThe results of the study showed that nurses' PES‐NWI, PES and CBI‐30 scores were higher than the average, and that certain professional and individual characteristics of nurses, practice environments and psychological empowerment perceptions had an effect on care behaviours. Nursing service managers, in particular, are required to understand the importance of this relationship and create appropriate working conditions which are integrated with psychological empowerment to improve caring behaviours of nurses.