bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Challenges for the development of sustainable SMEs in the cement industry: a SWARA–WASPAS approach
Authors: Anchan Veerendra , Manmohan Rahul , Agarwal Vernika , Kaul Arshia 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the obstacles and approaches to achieving sustainable development in India’s cement solid and hollow brick production business, with a specific emphasis on incorporating the triple bottom line (TBL) concept into strategies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach
Using the step-wise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA)–weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) approach, the study prioritized 11 economic, 9 environmental and 14 social sustainability indicators based on information collected from literature and expert opinions.

Findings
The study provides valuable insights into the difficulties encountered by SMEs while implementing strategies that focus on the TBL. By putting emphasis on the sustainability criteria, the key areas that require attention to promote sustainability get identified and addressed.

Research limitations/implications
The study’s focus on SMEs in this industry limits its generalizability. To have a more complete picture, future studies may include many areas.

Practical implications
The identified and prioritized sustainability characteristics help small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) design strategies to address sustainable development concerns. The research findings could also inform policymakers and regulatory bodies about the challenges faced by SMEs in the cement and brick production sector regarding sustainability. It could highlight the need for supportive policies and regulations to promote sustainable practices and incentivize SMEs to adopt the TBL approach. The paper can offer practical insights for SME owners and managers on integrating sustainability principles into their business strategies. Actionable recommendations and best practices for enhancing environmental performance, social impact, and economic viability within the context of cement and brick production are outlined.

Social implications
TBL policies improve the sustainability and profitability of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) and promote environmentally and socially responsible practices that benefit the industry and society. The research paper may facilitate greater engagement and collaboration among various stakeholders involved in the cement and brick production industry, including SMEs, larger corporations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities. This cooperative approach can encourage open communication, the establishment of trust and coordinated actions to tackle sustainability challenges, ultimately improving social cohesion, and collaboration.

Originality/value
This study provides new and valuable insights by investigating the development of TBL strategies in SMEs in the cement solid and hollow brick manufacturing sector in India. The utilization of the SWARA–WASPAS technique brings novelty to research on sustainable development in this field.
Fluid administration and fluid accumulation in intensive care units—Protocol for an international inception cohort study (FLUID‐ICU)
Authors: Molin Clara , Wichmann Sine , Schønemann‐Lund Martin , Møller Morten H. , Bestle Morten H. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIntroductionFluid accumulation is associated with adverse outcomes in critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Fluid administration in the ICU may be a clinically relevant source of fluid accumulation in ICU patients. However, the extent is unknown, and no standard definition exists. We aim to provide epidemiological data on fluid accumulation, risk factors, use of fluid removal strategies, patient outcomes and describe current fluid administration practices in the ICU.MethodsWe will conduct an international 14‐day inception cohort study including a minimum of 1000 acutely admitted adult ICU patients. Data will be collected from medical records and laboratory reports at baseline and daily from ICU admission to discharge with a maximum of 28 days. Follow‐up will be performed on day 90 after inclusion. The primary outcome is the number of patients with fluid accumulation. Secondary outcomes include the number of days with fluid accumulation, use of active fluid removal, days alive without life support at day 28, days alive and out of hospital day 90, and all‐cause mortality at day 90. Furthermore, we will assess risk factors for fluid accumulation and its association with 90‐day mortality and report on the types of fluid administration.ConclusionThis international inception cohort study will provide contemporary epidemiological data on fluid administration and fluid accumulation in adult ICU patients.
Three‐dimensional analysis of partial restoration of spermatogenesis in vitamin A‐deficient mice
Authors: Nakata Hiroki , Iseki Shoichi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundAn animal model of the partial restoration of spermatogenesis may be useful in the field of reproductive biology and medicine. Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) induces the restorable arrest of spermatogenesis at the level of spermatogonia and is used as a mouse model of spermatogenesis disorder.ObjectiveWe aimed to establish an animal model in which spermatogenesis is partially restored by switching a vitamin A deficiency diet to a normal vitamin A‐containing diet and conduct a comprehensive analysis to identify vulnerable sites in the seminiferous tubules that affect the efficient restoration of spermatogenesis in this model.Materials and methodsMice fed a vitamin A deficiency diet until 12 weeks old and then reared with a normal diet for 15 weeks served as the restoration model. We performed three‐dimensional reconstructions of the seminiferous tubules and analyzed the three‐dimensional distribution of restored spermatogenesis throughout the testis.ResultsFifteen weeks after the switch to the normal diet, spermatogenesis was restored in 78% of the length of seminiferous tubules. The percentage of restored spermatogenesis was lower in longer seminiferous tubules. An analysis of the distribution of spermatogenesis throughout the testis in this model revealed that it was restored less in portions of seminiferous tubules near the rete testis and hairpin curves and also in those located in the caudal region of the testis. These sites tended to correspond to sites with fewer spermatogonia in the vitamin A deficiency testis.Discussion and conclusionsWe established an animal model of the partial restoration of spermatogenesis and examined the three‐dimensional distribution of restored spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules. The results obtained provide insights into the mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis disorders and may contribute to better clinical practices, such as the screening of drugs or therapeutic interventions for human male infertility and improvements in fertility preservation techniques for individuals undergoing chemotherapy.
Isotopes and bioarchaeology in the Andes: Diet, life histories, and ritual
Authors: Tessone Augusto , Barberena Ramiro , Knudson Kelly J. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn this article, we present an isotopic perspective of key research questions in Andean bioarchaeology, focusing on the ways in which stable and radiogenic isotope analyses have contributed to our understanding of the past. Andean archaeology offers a window into long‐term processes of economic, socioecological and political change since the mid‐Holocene, thus providing historical trajectories of socio‐ecological change relevant for global comparison. The spatial scale of this review includes the areas traditionally identified as the south‐central Andes and the southern Andes. These ecological scenarios are characterised by marked topographic, climatic and ecological variations that are fruitful for the application of isotopes to understand diet, mobility, migration and ritual in past human societies. Within the broader Andean context, here we focus on the growth of bioarchaeological applications of isotopic data. We discuss some major themes of economic production, mobility and exploitation of environmental diversity, maize agriculture, migrations in small‐ and large‐scale societies and ritual practices related to human sacrifices and body modifications. Building on this, we discuss theoretical and methodological trends and directions for future research combining bioarchaeology and isotopes in the Andes.
Seeing is believing: The colour of silver alloys and the global silver circulation in the Chinese Ming and Qing dynasties
Authors: Sun Lin , Yang Gongle , Guo Rui , Ren Xinxing , Pollard Mark , Liu Ruiliang 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis research investigates the correlation between colour perception and the circulation of silver in China during the Ming (1368–1644 CE) and Qing (1644–1911 CE) dynasties. The primary aim is to deepen our understanding of how silver alloys were perceived and experienced in this historical context while also situating our study within the broader context of the global silver trade. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, silver possessed immense historical significance as a precious commodity. We argue that copper had a more substantial influence on the final colour of silver alloys compared to lead. Furthermore, employing a colourimetric model, our Monte‐Carlo simulation demonstrates that over 70% of silver from Mesoamerica to China could be discerned by nonexperts using only their unaided vision, largely due to the elevated copper content. Crucially, our simulation experiment reveals differing effects of copper and lead on the colour of silver alloys. The latter demonstrates minimal change until reaching a threshold of 15%, signifying that lead is a suitable and cost‐effective substitute for silver. These findings suggest that the detection of silver purity was less demanding than previously assumed, opening up opportunities for arbitrage.
Effects of Antrodia cinnamomea solid culture mycelium by‐products on growth performance and immune response in weaning black piglets
Authors: Chang Shen Chang , Wang Chun Ming , Chang Jhih Siang , Lin Li Jen , Lin Min Jung , Peng Shao Yu , Lee Tzu Tai 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study evaluated the effects of supplementation with Antrodia cinnamomea mycelium by‐product (ACBP) on growth performance and immune response in weaning piglets. Total available content and antioxidant capacity of ACBP were determined. Ninety‐six black pigs were randomly distributed to 24 pens. Study compared four groups which were supplemented with ACBP at 0%, 2.5%, 5%, or 10% for 6 weeks after weaning at 4 weeks. Results showed that ACBP on total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total triterpenoids contents were 13.68 mg GAE/g DW, 1.67 μg QE/g DW, and 15.6 mg/g, respectively. Weaning piglets fed 2.5% ACBP showed a significant decreased body weight gain compared with those supplemented with 5% ACBP, 10% ACBP, and control groups. Results showed that all ACBP groups increased the villi height of jejunum significantly. Incidence of diarrhea in 11 weeks with supplementation with 5% and 10% ACBP diets were lower than in control group. The 10% ACBP group showed significantly lower expression of immune response genes (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ) than the 2.5% and 5% ACBP groups. Based on results, dietary supplementation with 10% ACBP did not significantly affect body weight but could decrease piglet diarrhea condition and expression of IL‐1β and IL‐6 genes.
Circular RNA regulatory role in pathological cardiac remodelling
Authors: Bibi Alessia , Bartekova Monika , Gandhi Shrey , Greco Simona , Madè Alisia , Sarkar Moumita , Stopa Victoria , Tastsoglou Spyros , de Gonzalo‐Calvo David , Devaux Yvan , Emanueli Costanza , Hatzigeorgiou Artemis G. , Nossent A. Yaël , Zhou Zhichao , Martelli Fabio ,   CardioRNA COST Action CA17129 and AtheroNET COST Action CA21153
Published: June 2024

AbstractCardiac remodelling involves structural, cellular and molecular alterations in the heart after injury, resulting in progressive loss of heart function and ultimately leading to heart failure. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a recently rediscovered class of non‐coding RNAs that play regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure. Thus, a more comprehensive understanding of the role of circRNAs in the processes governing cardiac remodelling may set the ground for the development of circRNA‐based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. In this review, the current knowledge about circRNA origin, conservation, characteristics and function is summarized. Bioinformatics and wet‐lab methods used in circRNA research are discussed. The regulatory function of circRNAs in cardiac remodelling mechanisms such as cell death, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, inflammation, fibrosis and metabolism is highlighted. Finally, key challenges and opportunities in circRNA research are discussed, and orientations for future work to address the pharmacological potential of circRNAs in heart failure are proposed.LINKED ARTICLESThis article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
Shedding light on the relevance of asexual reproduction in the savannas: Cloning in Velloziaceae
Authors: Maracahipes Leandro , Faggiani Ana Paula S. , Campos Bruna H. , Oliveira Rafael S. , Pilon Natashi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDuring a biodiversity monitoring of woody and herbaceous plants in 2023, we observed the formation of new individuals through cloning in Velloziaceae species. Based on recorded evidence and scientific literature, we discussed the importance of cloning in maintaining the high dominance of these species in seasonal open ecosystems. In addition, we hope to shed light on the discussion of the importance of asexual reproduction through cloning and resprouting strategies in plants widely widespread in savanna ecosystems.Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Comparison of seven CD19 CAR designs in engineering NK cells for enhancing anti‐tumour activity
Authors: Wang Yao , Li Jianhuan , Wang Zhiqian , Liu Yanhong , Wang Tongjie , Zhang Mengyun , Xia Chengxiang , Zhang Fan , Huang Dehao , Zhang Leqiang , Zhao Yaoqin , Liu Lijuan , Zhu Yanping , Qi Hanmeng , Zhu Xiaofan , Qian Wenbin , Hu Fangxiao , Wang Jinyong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractChimeric antigen receptor‐natural killer (CAR‐NK) cell therapy is emerging as a promising cancer treatment, with notable safety and source diversity benefits over CAR‐T cells. This study focused on optimizing CAR constructs for NK cells to maximize their therapeutic potential. We designed seven CD19 CAR constructs and expressed them in NK cells using a retroviral system, assessing their tumour‐killing efficacy and persistence. Results showed all constructs enhanced tumour‐killing and prolonged survival in tumour‐bearing mice. In particular, CAR1 (CD8 TMD‐CD3ζ SD)‐NK cells showed superior efficacy in treating tumour‐bearing animals and exhibited enhanced persistence when combined with OX40 co‐stimulatory domain. Of note, CAR1‐NK cells were most effective at lower effector‐to‐target ratios, while CAR4 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐ FcεRIγ SD) compromised NK cell expansion ability. Superior survival rates were noted in mice treated with CAR1‐, CAR2 (CD8 TMD‐ FcεRIγ SD)‐, CAR3 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐ CD3ζ SD)‐ and CAR4‐NK cells over those treated with CAR5 (CD28 TMD‐ FcεRIγ SD)‐, CAR6 (CD8 TMD‐4‐1BB CD‐CD3ζ 1‐ITAM SD)‐ and CAR7 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐CD3ζ 1‐ITAM SD)‐NK cells, with CAR5‐NK cells showing the weakest anti‐tumour activity. Increased expression of exhaustion markers, especially in CAR7‐NK cells, suggests that combining CAR‐NK cells with immune checkpoint inhibitors might improve anti‐tumour outcomes. These findings provide crucial insights for developing CAR‐NK cell products for clinical applications.
Spatiotemporal patterns of forest pollinator diversity across the southeastern United States
Authors: Ulyshen Michael , Adams Cory , Adams Jacqui , Adams Susan B. , Bland Mickey , Bragg Don C. , Burdine Chuck , Callaham Mac A. , Chaney Richard , Chapman Gregg , Clinton Patsy , Dixon Cinnamon , Floyd Jacob , Jordan Phillip , Keyser Tara , Laseter Stephanie , Mallinger Rachel , McDaniel Virginia , Mudder Bryan , Nelson C. Dana , Odanaka Katherine , Oishi A. Christopher , Reid Shawna , Reynolds Samm , Robertson Kevin , Saenz Daniel , Sayer Mary Anne , Schiff Nathan , Scholtens Brian , Scott Joel , Spetich Martin , Taylor Melanie K. , Willis John L. , Young Andrew D. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAimEfforts to understand how pollinating insect diversity is distributed across large geographic areas are rare despite the importance of such work for conserving regional diversity. We sought to relate the diversity of bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea), hover flies (Diptera: Syrphidae), and butterflies (Lepidoptera) to ecoregion, landscape context, canopy openness, and forest composition across southeastern U.S. forests.LocationNineteen experimental forests across nine states in the southeastern U.S.MethodsWe established 5–7 plots on each experimental forest. In each, we sampled pollinators monthly (March–September) using coloured pan traps, and collected data on local forest characteristics. We used the National Land Cover Database (NLCD) to quantify surrounding landcover at different spatial scales.ResultsBee richness was negatively correlated with both the amount of conifer (pine) forest and the extent of wetlands in the surrounding landscape but was positively correlated with canopy openness. Hover flies and butterflies were less sensitive to landscape context and stand conditions. Pollinator communities differed considerably among ecoregions, with those of the Central Appalachian and Coastal Plain ecoregions being particularly distinct. Bee richness and abundance peaked 2 months earlier in Central Appalachia than in the Coastal Plain and Southeastern Mixed Forest ecoregions.Main ConclusionsOur findings reveal ecoregional differences in pollinator communities across the southeastern U.S. and highlight the importance of landscape context and local forest conditions to this diverse fauna. The closed broadleaf forests of Appalachia and the open conifer‐dominated forests of the Coastal Plain support particularly distinct pollinator communities with contrasting seasonality. Our results suggest pine forests may reduce pollinator diversity in regions historically dominated by broadleaf forests. However, efforts to create more open canopies can help improve conditions for pollinators in planted pine forests. Research exploring associations between forest pollinators and different broadleaf tree taxa is needed to better anticipate the impacts of various management activities.
Teaching systems thinking for sustainable development in business schools: A hands‐on project using the online news
Authors: Guthrie Cameron 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBusiness schools have a responsibility for educating global citizens capable of understanding and addressing the major societal challenges of the 21st century. However, working on complex societal problems within business school curricula remains a challenge. This teaching brief presents a learning project that helps instructors introduce systems‐thinking skills into the classroom to address complex problems of sustainability. The project involves students studying an issue of their choice within one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and designing a multi‐stakeholder strategy to both alleviate problem symptoms and address their underlying causes and drivers. Analysis of student evaluations and feedback show that the project engages students and favors systems‐thinking skill acquisition. The project can be run either online or in the classroom, individually, in small teams, or with an entire class. It can be used by instructors for sustainable development, corporate social responsibility, and systems‐thinking classes, or be run as a capstone activity.
Change of function and brain activity in patients of right spastic arm paralysis combined with aphasia after contralateral cervical seventh nerve transfer surgery
Authors: Feng Juntao , Lv Minzhi , Ma Xingyi , Li Tie , Xu Miaomiao , Yang Jingrui , Su Fan , Hu Ruiping , Li Jie , Qiu Yanqun , Liu Ying , Shen Yundong , Xu Wendong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLeft hemisphere injury can cause right spastic arm paralysis and aphasia, and recovery of both motor and language functions shares similar compensatory mechanisms and processes. Contralateral cervical seventh cross transfer (CC7) surgery can provide motor recovery for spastic arm paralysis by triggering interhemispheric plasticity, and self‐reports from patients indicate spontaneous improvement in language function but still need to be verified. To explore the improvements in motor and language function after CC7 surgery, we performed this prospective observational cohort study. The Upper Extremity part of Fugl‐Meyer scale (UEFM) and Modified Ashworth Scale were used to evaluate motor function, and Aphasia Quotient calculated by Mandarin version of the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB‐AQ, larger score indicates better language function) was assessed for language function. In 20 patients included, the average scores of UEFM increased by .40 and 3.70 points from baseline to 1‐week and 6‐month post‐surgery, respectively. The spasticity of the elbow and fingers decreased significantly at 1‐week post‐surgery, although partially recurred at 6‐month follow‐up. The average scores of WAB‐AQ were increased by 9.14 and 10.69 points at 1‐week and 6‐month post‐surgery (P < .001 for both), respectively. Post‐surgical fMRI scans revealed increased activity in the bilateral hemispheres related to language centrals, including the right precentral cortex and right gyrus rectus. These findings suggest that CC7 surgery not only enhances motor function but may also improve the aphasia quotient in patients with right arm paralysis and aphasia due to left hemisphere injuries.
SOVEREIGN UNCERTAINTY
Authors: Silgado‐Gómez Edgar 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis article investigates the impact and transmission of uncertainty regarding the future path of government finances on economic activity. Employing a data‐rich approach, I introduce a novel proxy that captures uncertainty surrounding public finances, which I refer to as sovereign uncertainty. In an application to Spain, sovereign uncertainty shocks persistently dampen the economy in the medium run, whereas macro‐financial uncertainty shocks originating in the private sector induce a negative short‐lived response in real activity. In addition, a New Keynesian model rationalizes the empirical results, emphasizing the role of financial frictions and monetary policy decisions in transmitting the effects of sovereign uncertainty shocks.