bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Global diversification, profitability and revenue creation: Evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Subramaniam Vasanthan , Wasiuzzaman Shaista , Hosen Mosharrof , Lau Evan 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe aim of this article is to examine the impact of global diversification on firm performance. Data for this study were gathered from a total of 714 firms over a period of 5 years, from 2016 to 2020, totalling 2904 firm‐year observations. The relationship between global diversification and firm performance is analysed using ordinary least square (OLS) and quantile regression (QR) approaches. Based on OLS regression, global diversification negatively influences both the ability to create revenue and generate profits, with significant evidence only for revenue. On the other hand, QR analysis presents various perspectives of the relationship. Although global diversification is still negatively associated with the profitability of under‐performing firms, the relationship can be positive once the firms begin to perform well. In terms of revenue creation, its association with global diversification is found to be significantly negative for all levels of revenue. This demonstrates how global diversification can provide a distinctive platform for firms to generate profits even though their ability to make revenue decreases as their performance improves. Policy implications are discussed accordingly.
Neurobiological evidence and criminal competencies
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Nesbit Ariana , Datta Vivek 
Published: March 2024

AbstractNeuroimaging and other neurobiological evidences are increasingly introduced in criminal litigation, especially when a neuropsychiatric disorder is suspected. Evaluations of criminal competencies are the most common type of criminal forensic assessment in forensic psychiatry and psychology. Given this, it is critical for forensic evaluators to understand how neuropsychiatric disorders may affect a defendant's criminal competencies and how neurobiological data may be used in competency determinations. This paper reviews the use of neurobiological data, particularly neuroimaging, while considering the limitations and potential misuse of such data in criminal competency evaluations.
Engineering the Activity of a Newly Identified Arylalkylamine N‐Acetyltransferase in the Acetylation of 5‐Hydroxytryptamine
Authors: Wang Qing , Li Congcong , Yuan Bo , Yu Aiqun , Qu Ge , Sun Zhoutong 
Published: March 2024

AbstractArylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT) serves as a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of melatonin by transforming 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) to N‐acetyl‐5‐hydroxytryptamine (NAS), while its low activity may hinder melatonin yield. In this study, a novel AANAT derived from Sus scrofa (SsAANAT) was identified through data mining using 5‐HT as a model substrate, and a rational design of SsAANAT was conducted in the quest to improving its activity. After four rounds of mutagenesis procedures, a triple combinatorial dominant mutant M3 was successfully obtained. Compared to the parent enzyme, the conversion of the whole‐cell reaction bearing the best variant M3 exhibted an increase from 50 % to 99 % in the transformation of 5‐HT into NAS. Additionally, its catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) was enhanced by 2‐fold while retaining the thermostability (Tm>45 °C). In the up‐scaled reaction with a substrate loading of 50 mM, the whole‐cell system incorporating variant M3 achieved a 99 % conversion of 5‐HT in 30 h with an 80 % yield. Molecular dynamics simulations were ultilized to shed light on the origin of improved activity. This study broadens the repertoire of AANAT for the efficient biosynthesis of melatonin.
Design‐of‐Experiments‐Based Optimisation of Vanillin Yield from Kraft Lignin Using Pulse Electrolysis and Thermolysis
Authors: Brix Ann Cathrin , Otávio Orzari Luiz , Krysiak Olga A. , Cechanaviciutè Ieva A. , Banko Lars , Ludwig Alfred , Campos Janegitz Bruno , Schuhmann Wolfgang 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe electrification of the production of fine chemicals has received increased interest in combating petrochemical routes with a high carbon footprint. Oxidising biomass from waste streams with concomitant hydrogen production, such as the transformation of lignin to vanillin, would be a great asset. Here, we show the combination of activity screening using a scanning droplet cell on a thin‐film Ni−Fe library and performance testing in a flow‐through cell with pulse electrolysis. The identified optimal Ni−Fe material composition was prepared on Ni foam with a polymer/metal precursor spray method. Full factorial and Doehlert matrix designs were employed to better comprehend each parameter‘s effects on the complex system. The best conditions for the electrooxidation of Kraft lignin at room temperature were at E1st=1.36 V vs RHE, t1st=1 s for the first pulse and E2nd=1.60 V vs RHE and t2nd=15 s for the second pulse, leading to the significantly improved production of 2.15 μmols of vanillin at room temperature. Pulsed chronopotentiometry was demonstrated to be a cost‐effective and robust technique with a simple setup for the valorisation of Kraft lignin. Combined with a subsequent thermolysis step, 8.05 μmols of vanillin were obtained.
Do anticipated government environmental audits promote corporate social responsibility? Evidence from China
Authors: Tan Jianhua , Chan Kam C. , Niu Runkai 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe examine the impact of China's announcements of upcoming government environmental audits (GEAs) on firms' corporate social responsibility (CSR). We hypothesize that firms, especially heavily polluting firms, engage in more CSR to proactively burnish their public image to weather forthcoming adverse outcomes from a GEA. Our baseline findings confirm that firms respond to the government's GEA announcement by engaging in more CSR. Additional analysis suggests that reputation concerns and environmental fines mediate the impact of GEA announcements on CSR. Cross‐sectional analyses show that the effect of GEA announcements on CSR is more salient for firms: (1) in a business environment in which GEAs are more effective, (2) that CSR engagement is critically important, or (3) that CSR can serve some special function. Overall, our findings imply that it is generally a good government policy to implement GEAs.
Three‐phase common‐ground‐type photovoltaic inverter without shoot‐through problem
Authors: Yao Zhilei , He Xiangyu 
Published: March 2024

SummarySince there are common mode leakage current (CMLC) and shoot‐through problems in the conventional three‐phase transformerless photovoltaic (PV) inverters, the three‐phase common‐ground‐type transformerless dual‐buck inverters (DBIs) are derived. By shorting the neutral point of the three‐phase load and the negative terminal of the PV panel, the CMLC is eliminated. The DBIs has no shoot‐through problem and there is no current flowing through the body diode of the SiC metal oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistor (MOSFET). The three‐phase DBI combined with a buck‐boost converter is taken as an example to illustrate the operating principle of the derived inverters. The control strategy of the inverter is given. A prototype is built to validate the proposed inverter. Finally, comparison among the proposed inverter and other three‐phase inverters is given.
Extraordinary stability of surfactant‐free bubbles suspended in ultrasound
Authors: Ji Xiaoliang , Zhong Wenxuan , Liu Kangqi , Jiang Yichen , Chen Hongyue , Zhao Wei , Zang Duyang 
Published: March 2024

AbstractGravity‐induced drainage is one of the main destabilizing mechanisms for soap bubbles and foams. Here we show that solely through acoustic levitation without introducing any chemical stabilizers, liquid drainage in the bubble film can be completely inhibited, therefore leading to a significant enhancement of bubble lifetime by more than two orders of magnitude and enabling the bubble to survive puncturing by a needle. Based on sound simulation and force analysis, it has been found that acoustic radiation force, exerted on both the inner and outer surfaces of the levitated bubble, acts in opposite directions, thus providing a squeezing effect to the bubble film. The hydrostatic pressure that induces drainage has been balanced by the acoustic radiation pressure exerted on both sides of the film, which is at the origin of the sound stabilization mechanism. This study provides new insights into the interplay between sound and soap bubbles or films, thus stimulating a wide range of fundamental research concerning bubble films and expanding their applications in bio/chemical reactors.
Probabilistic pile reinforced slope stability analysis using load transfer factor considering anisotropy of soil cohesion
Authors: Wen Jiahui , Chu Xuesong , Xu Liang , Yu Guangming , Li Liang 
Published: March 2024

AbstractA probabilistic limit equilibrium framework combining empirical load transfer factor and anisotropy of soil cohesion is developed to conduct pile‐reinforced slope reliability analysis. The anisotropy of soil cohesion is determined conditioned on that the thrust force direction is parallel to the major principal direction and it is easily combined with load transfer factor, which are related with soil parameters, and pile parameters. The proposed method is illustrated against a homogeneous soil slope. The sensitivity studies of pile parameters on factor of safety (FS; calculated at respective means of soil parameters) and β demonstrated that the anisotropy of soil cohesion tends to pose significant effect on reliability index β than on FS. The effect of anisotropy of soil cohesion on FS is found to be slightly different under different pile locations, whereas its effect on β is observed to be least if piles are drilled at the middle part of slope and more significant effect is observed when piles are drilled at the lower and upper part of slope. The plots from the sensitivity studies provide an alternative tool for pile designs aiming at the target reliability index β. The proposed method contributes to the pile‐reinforced slope stability within limit equilibrium framework.
In‐depth analysis of the power management strategies in electric vehicles
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Jain Vaibhav 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn electric vehicles, the battery is a key component that calculates vehicle performance. Due to their greater efficiency and the lower cost of power, charging an electric vehicle is more affordable than purchasing gasoline or diesel for travel needs. To increase the battery's lifespan, the accuracy of the battery model for electric vehicles must be enhanced. To operate at their peak efficiency, batteries must be managed properly by a battery management system. This research illustrates the functioning of a rechargeable electric vehicle battery's charging system. There are several types of rechargeable batteries used, including lead acid, lithium‐ion, and nickel‐cadmium batteries. In recent trends, are used in the majority of cars use rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries. In general, accumulated heat, rapid utilization, and total energy throughput have an impact on the battery life of electric vehicles. In this study, 50 papers were analyzed about battery charging in an electric vehicle, which utilized different measures, as well as achievements attained by various methods. This survey reviewed the information from a different journal, along with their advantage, disadvantages, and challenges. The review lays the groundwork for future researchers to gain a deeper understanding of electric vehicles by offering a thorough interpretation of the methods currently in use.
Silver‐doped alginate cryogels as new generation current collectors for lithium‐ion batteries: Structural and electrochemical analysis
Authors: Cetin Yaren Celik , Dursun Halide Nur , Demir Pinar , Uysal Emircan , Ozcelik‐Yesiltepe Duygu , Ates Mehmet Nurullah , Gurmen Sebahattin 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe development of next‐generation materials for essential components in lithium‐ion batteries, such as collectors, is crucial owing to considerations of performance, cost, and environmental impact. From this perspective, new‐generation material studies are being carried out to increase the performance of current collectors and reduce environmental damage. In this study, a novel biodegradable Ag nanoparticle‐doped calcium alginate cryogel was produced and used as the current collector for Li‐ion batteries to improve performance, reduce environmental damage, and develop new‐generation batteries. The synthesis of Ag NPs was achieved using an inexpensive and environmentally friendly chemical reduction method, followed by their incorporation into the gels. Freeze‐drying was employed to obtain cryogels without the inclusions on the current collector. Structural analysis of both the particles and gels was performed via XRD, SEM, EDS, and FTIR, DSC respectively. The results showed that the synthesized Ag NPs were spherical with an average diameter of 10 nm. The cryogels exhibited desirable chemical structures, as indicated by FTIR analysis. The addition of Ag NPs led to changes in peak positions and intensities, indicating crosslinking homogenization and increased hydrophobicity. Galvanostatic Charge/Discharge Analysis was conducted to evaluate the electrochemical performance of the cryogels as current collectors. The cryogels demonstrated balanced lithiation/delithiation behavior but had a limited operational duration, likely due to structural instability. Postmortem analysis conducted by FTIR and DSC analysis for disassembled cryogels showed the presence of lithium salts from the electrolyte in the structure, and the usage of a solid electrolyte was recommended to improve the system's performance.
Assessing the potential for CO2 storage in saline aquifers in Brazil: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Weber Nathália , de Oliveira Saulo B. , Cavallari Allan , Morbach Isabela , Tassinari Colombo C. G. , Meneghini Julio 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study underscores the critical role of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and addresses the potential for CCS projects in saline aquifers in Brazil, one of the world's largest carbon emitters. The country's ability to adopt CCS is significantly influenced by the availability of data related to regional CO2 storage potential and identifying suitable geological framework for CO2 injection. While oil and gas reservoirs have traditionally been prioritized, saline aquifers represent an underexplored and potentially higher capacity storage option. Despite Brazil's 31 sedimentary basins, the data quantity and availability for these contexts remain insufficient for advanced studies on the geological storage of CO2 considering saline aquifers. An initial study was conducted indicating five potential targets in the Paraná and Potiguar Basins for geological storage in saline aquifers based on available public data, mainly drilling data. This review reveals substantial challenges related to the evaluation of Brazil's CO2 storage capacity, such as the lack of modern seismic studies, the absence of a regulatory framework for CO2 storage, and insufficient investment in new well exploration. These challenges necessitate multistakeholder collaboration, the development of a supportive regulatory environment, and investment in extensive site characterization campaigns. Addressing these barriers is fundamental to realizing the country's CCS potential and contributing to global decarbonization efforts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local perceptions of anthropogenic and climate factors affecting the use and the conservation of Detarium microcarpum and Detarium senegalense in Burkina Faso (West Africa)
Authors: Taonda Adama , Zerbo Issouf , N'Guessan Anny Estelle , N'Dja Kassi Justin , Thiombiano Adjima 
Published: March 2024

AbstractUnderstanding local perceptions and the different uses of multipurpose plant species is essential for their sustainable management. Despite this, anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, overexploitation of natural resources, extension of agricultural lands, overgrazing, and bushfires, coupled with the adverse effects of climate change, are contributing to the loss of these species. This study analyses the perceptions of local communities in Burkina Faso regarding the threats to Detarium microcarpum and Detarium senegalense and their implications, aiming to contribute to the effective management and conservation of such species. Through individual semi‐structured and focus group interviews with 465 local people, data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, plant parts used, use categories, threats and their effects, proposed solutions, and perceived conservation strategies. Descriptive statistics (consensus for plant part and relative frequency of citation), component analysis, and non‐parametric analyses were used for data analysis. Results indicated that ethnicity, age, education level, and occupation were the most influential sociodemographic factors in relation to the use of these species. Six plant parts from both Detarium species are used across seven use categories, with fruits (0.40), trunks (0.16), and bark (0.27) being the most exploited. There was consensus among local populations regarding areas of abundance. Threat factors, their effects, and conservation solutions varied significantly according to site status. This study highlights the multipurpose uses of Detarium species throughout Burkina Faso and reveals that threats to these species are linked to the occupation and the status of each site. Sustainable use, effective conservation, and domestication of Detarium species should be considered to promote and sustain the exploitation of non‐timber forest products.
The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorder among dental students: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Moradi Shayan , Fateh Mohammad Sadegh , Movahed Emad , Mortezagholi Bardia , Amini Mohammad Javad , Salehi Seyyed Amirhossein , Hajishah Hamed , Nowruzi Mahdi , Shafiee Arman 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundDespite the increasing concern, the literature lacks a comprehensive synthesis of the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances among dental students.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review following Cochrane Manual for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and PRISMA guidelines. Our search, spanning databases like Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus, covered data until June 5, 2023. A random effect model was utilized for the meta‐analysis.ResultsFrom 508 initially identified articles, 45 studies met eligibility criteria. The pooled prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders among dental students was estimated as follows: depression [38%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 32%–44%; I2 = 98%], anxiety [48%, 95% CI: 41%–55%; I2 = 97.7%], and sleep disorders [31%, 95% CI: 24%–38%; I2 = 85.7%]. Subgroup analyses based on geographical regions and assessment scales revealed significant between‐subgroup differences. Meta‐regression identified associations between the prevalence of depression and the year of publication and between the prevalence of anxiety and total sample size, participant age, and year of publication. Publication bias assessments demonstrated a lack of significant bias, strengthening the validity of the findings.ConclusionsThe prevalence of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances in dental students is significant. This study highlighted the need for targeted interventions and support systems within dental education to alleviate the mental health challenges students face, ultimately ensuring their well‐being and competence as future healthcare providers. Further research should explore the effectiveness of interventions in this population.
Learning to prioritize the public good: Does training in classes, workplaces, and professional societies shape engineers' understanding of their public welfare responsibilities?
Authors: Cech Erin A. , Finelli Cynthia J. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundEngineers are professionally obligated to protect the safety and well‐being of the public impacted by the technologies they design and maintain. In an increasingly complex sociotechnical world, engineering educators and professional institutions have a duty to train engineers in these responsibilities.Purpose/HypothesisThis article asks, where are engineers trained in their public welfare responsibilities, and how effective is this training? We argue that engineers trained in public welfare responsibilities, especially within engineering education, will demonstrate greater understanding of their duty to recognize and respond to public welfare concerns. We expect training in formal engineering classes to be more broadly impactful than training in contexts like work or professional societies.Data/MethodsWe analyze unique survey data from a representative sample of US practicing engineers using descriptive and regression techniques.ResultsConsistent with expectations, engineers who received public welfare responsibility training in engineering classes are more likely than other engineers to understand their responsibilities to protect public health and safety and problem‐solve collectively, to recognize the importance of social consequences and ethical responsibilities in their own jobs, to have noticed ethical issues in their workplace, and to have taken action about an issue that concerned them. Training through other parts of college, workplaces, or professional societies has comparatively little impact. Concerningly, nearly a third of engineers reported never being trained in public welfare responsibilities.ConclusionThese results suggest that training in engineering education can shape engineers' long‐term understanding of their public welfare responsibilities. They underscore the need for these responsibilities to be taught as a core, non‐negotiable part of engineering education.
Unintended consequences of methadone regulation for opioid use disorder treatment among hospitalized patients
Authors: Calcaterra Susan L. , Dafoe Ashley , Tietbohl Caroline , Thurman Lindsay , Bredenberg Erin 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundIn the United States, there are no federal restrictions on the use of methadone to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms when patients are hospitalized with a medical or surgical condition other than addiction. In contrast, in an outpatient setting, methadone for opioid use disorder (OUD) is highly regulated by federal and state governments and can only be dispensed from an opioid treatment program (OTP). Discrepancies in regulatory requirements across these settings may lead to barriers in care for patients with OUD.ObjectiveIdentify how methadone regulation impacts the care of patients with OUD during hospitalization, care transitions, and in the OTP setting.MethodsWe completed 26 interviews with clinicians and social workers working on hospital‐based addiction consultation services across the United States. Study findings are the result of a secondary content analysis of interviews to identifying the word “methadone” and construct themes resulting from the data.ResultsWe identified three major themes related to “methadone” for OUD treatment, all of which impacted patient care: (1) limited OTP hours leads to tenuous or delayed hospital discharges; (2) inadequate information‐sharing between hospitals and OTPs leads to delays in care; and (3) methadone regulations create treatment barriers for the most vulnerable patients.ConclusionStrict methadone regulations have resulted in unintended consequences for patients with OUD in the hospital setting, during care transitions, and in the OTP setting. Recent and ongoing federal efforts to reform methadone provision may improve some of the reported challenges, but significant hurdles remain in providing safe, equitable care to hospitalized patients with OUD.