bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Make, buy, or ally?—A configurational approach to governance choices in vertical expansion
Authors: Lai Jingyi , Chen Yongqiang , Chen Yuting , Fu Yongcheng 
Published: August 2023

AbstractFirms expand vertical boundaries by obtaining ownership of relevant resources. There are three means by which firms can achieve this goal: internal development, mergers and acquisitions (M&As), and equity joint ventures. From transaction cost theory and resource‐based view, this study analyzed how resource characteristics, environmental conditions, and firms' capabilities influence their governance choices by studying 30 cases involving architectural, engineering, and construction firms and employing a fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis method. The findings reveal that all the antecedents jointly influenced firms' governance choices; however, they did so in a way that led to the firms' rejection as opposed to the implementation of one strategy. Firms avoided choosing internal development to circumvent high internal transaction costs or expand into new business rapidly. Firms excluded M&As when the similarity between new and existing resources was high to avoid resource redundancy. When market uncertainty was high, they did so to avoid investment risks. Moreover, when high external transaction costs were evident due to interactions and interdependency between firms and their partners, firms tended to choose a more integrated strategy and excluded equity joint ventures. The research indicates that firms' relational capabilities help them reduce external transaction costs and identify strategies with the lowest efficiency.
Nanofibers from soybean hull insoluble polysaccharides as Pickering stabilizers in oil‐in‐water emulsions formulated under acidic conditions
Authors: Reta Dominguez Camila V. , Wagner Jorge R. , Porfiri María C. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBACKGROUNDPickering emulsions are a kind of emulsion stabilized by solid particles. These particles generate a physical or mechanical barrier that provides long‐term stability to emulsion. Cellulose nanofibers are effective Pickering emulsifiers given their long length, high flexibility and entanglement capability. In this work, soybean hull insoluble polysaccharides (HIPS) were used as source of cellulose nanofibers by using a combination of chemical and mechanical treatment. The chemical composition, morphology, flow behavior, water holding capacity (WHC) and emulsifying properties of the nanofibers were studied.RESULTSNanofibers with diameters between 35 and 110 nm were obtained. The WHC increased significantly after the mechanical treatment, and the rheological behavior of the nanofibers was typical of cellulosic materials. Nanofibers were effective emulsifiers in oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions formulated under acidic conditions, without the need of using any additional surfactant. Emulsions were not affected by changes in the pH of the medium (3.00–5.00), and were stable to coalescence.CONCLUSIONIt is possible that cellulose nanofibers form an entangled network which acts as a mechanical steric barrier, providing stability to coalescence. These results are important for the development of effective O/W Pickering emulsifiers/stabilizers, with large applications in the food industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Inter‐population variability in movement parameters: practical implications for population density estimation
Authors: Palencia Pablo , Acevedo Pelayo , Hofmeester Tim R. , Sereno‐Cadierno Jorge , Vicente Joaquín 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMotion‐sensitive cameras are popular as non‐invasive monitoring tools, and several methods have been developed to estimate population densities from camera data. These methods frequently rely on auxiliary movement data including the distance traveled by an individual in a day and the proportion of the day that an animal spends moving when individual recognition is not possible. The estimation of these movement parameters is time‐consuming, which could limit the applicability of cameras to estimate population density. To investigate the relevance of measuring movement parameters for the target population, we monitored 54 wildlife populations of red deer (Cervus elaphus), fallow deer (Dama dama), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in different seasons through Europe with cameras. We estimated 91‐day ranges and activity levels. We fitted mixed models for day range and activity level as response variables to assess if the inter‐population variability in movement was explained by a set of a priori relevant geographical, environmental, biological, and management predictors. We then explored the bias in density estimates obtained in 25 independent populations when using predicted movement data. There was high intra‐species variation in day range and activity level among species and populations. Only species explained a small proportion of this variability; other predictor variables did not. We observed bias in densities when predicting the day range and activity for independent populations. Considering the intra‐species variability in movement parameters and the consequent unacceptable bias in density estimates, we recommend that monitoring and conservation programs estimate movement parameters for the target population and survey populations from camera data for more accurate density estimates. While this increases the handling time needed to estimate densities, it is worth the cost because of the reliability of camera‐based methodologies to estimate needed movement parameters.
Liming and spring salamander abundance
Authors: Edwards Elise M. , Mosher Brittany A. , Pauley Thomas , Welch Shane , Waldron Jayme L. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractEnvironmental acidification is affecting ecosystems around the globe, and as a result, managers are using limestone applications to mitigate the effects of acid rain and acid mine drainage. Limestone applications attempt to reverse acidification by increasing stream pH; however, liming can have variable effects on stream biota. We examined the effects of liming on spring salamander (Gyrinophilus porphyriticus) abundance in West Virginia, USA, from 10 June to 1 September 2013. We used multiple methods (i.e., leaf litterbags, visual encounter surveys, area constrained flip and search) to sample spring salamanders within 11 different streams in the Monongahela National Forest. Using N‐mixture models, which allow for estimation of abundance from count data and account for imperfect detection probabilities, we examined the effects of direct application liming (DAL) on spring salamander abundance. Direct application liming at a higher lime frequency did not have a significant effect on salamander abundance; however, we observed differences in spring salamander size in areas near the DAL site. These results have influenced management of limed streams and will enlighten managers to the effects of high frequency liming on salamander communities and other stream organisms, and will provide insights on how to mitigate potential impacts as a result of liming practices.
Wind‐driven currents and water masses shape spring phytoplankton distribution and composition in hydrologically complex, productive shelf waters
Authors: Ferronato Carola , Berden Giuliana , Rivarossa Martín , Guinder Valeria A. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe Northern Patagonian shelf (35–42°S SW South Atlantic) is a transitional area between the subtropical and subantarctic domains, where the shelf shifts from source to sink of atmospheric CO2. In the southeast portion (39–42°S, 61–55°W) of this area, winds interact with different water masses and picture a complex circulation that supports two productive frontal systems: the Mid‐Shelf Front (MSF) and the Patagonian Shelf‐break Front. We combined remote sensing (e.g., monthly surface chlorophyll a over the period: September–December 2002–2021), reanalysis (winds and surface currents), and in situ measurements from three cross‐shelf cruises in spring 2016, 2017, and 2019, to assess the underlying drivers of phytoplankton distribution. The anomalous high chlorophyll concentration in the MSF in spring 2016 was related to enhanced water mass retention by N‐NE winds. Contrasting phytoplankton assemblages emerged related to stratified waters in the shelf influenced by the Patagonian Current and vertically mixed waters at the continental edge (Malvinas Current). Large diatoms prevailed in the outer shelf followed by dinoflagellates, while nanoflagellates and microzooplankton dominated in the mid‐shelf. Furthermore, thickness of the subsurface chlorophyll maximum was broader in the early spring than in a more advanced state of the bloom where the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi was abundant. We showed that different time‐scale physical processes—winds, surface currents and vertical mixing—are underpinning the development of spring blooms with different taxa composition in the Patagonian shelf, where different water masses define the hydrological complexity that led to patchy phytoplankton.
DECENCY, AUTHENTICITY, AND APPROACHABILITY IN LEADERSHIP
Authors: Bishop Suzie , Shriver Sam 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe authors, who are both leaders at The Center for Leadership Studies, provide details about their relationship with Frances Hesselbein. On their first meeting at Frances’ New York City office in 2017, they note that “Though degrees, plaques, awards and photos covered her walls, she made you feel as though you were the most important person in the room—you were valued, and you would be heard.” They believe Frances’ legacy will continue moving forward. One aspect of her wisdom regarding her legacy that the authors recount, “Regardless of the leadership approach you use in any particular situation, leading people is first and foremost about decency, authenticity and approachability.”
Polymer Containing Multiple Secondary Structures—A Competition between Helical Induction and C‐T Complexation
Authors: Deepak  , Bisht Arjun Singh , Roy Raj Kumar 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThough “foldamers” have greatly developed, molecules that fold beyond 2° structures are less common. The design and synthesis of triblock copolymers of the “A‐B‐A” type containing two types of helix formation blocks are presented. Two blocks (A and B) are chosen, with one comprised of L‐polyproline as block “A” and the other block (B) comprised with three naphthalene diimide‐derivatives separated by two proline residues. Block (B) is carefully designed to serve as a bifunctional initiator for the ring‐opening polymerization of proline‐N‐carboxy anhydride as well as to encapsulate an electron‐rich aromatic species by charge transfer complexation (C‐T). As a result of (C‐T) complexation with dialkoxy pyrene, the native helical structure of the middle block is transformed into a 1D columnar structure without affecting the 2° structure of the polyproline block. In this way, the initial helix1‐b‐helix2‐b‐helix1 structure of the block copolymers is transformed into a helix1‐b‐columnar‐b‐helix1 structure. The C‐T complexation and related structural changes of the block copolymers are characterized using UV‐vis, fluorescence, and circular dichroism spectroscopy.
Microstructure characterization and mechanistic insight into polyether polyols and their associated polyurethanes
Authors: Gies Anthony P. , Hercules David M. , Raghuraman Arjun , Kosanovich Alex J. , Baker Matthew A. , Mukhopadhyay Sukrit , Kobylianskii Ilia , Paradkar Manjiri 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis article reviews the analytical tool chest used for characterizing alkoxylates and their associated copolymer mixtures. Specific emphasis will be placed upon the use of mass spectrometry‐based techniques as rapid characterization tools for optimizing reaction processes in an industrial R&D setting. An initial tutorial will cover the use of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry fragmentation for detailed component analysis (e.g., polyol and isocyanate) of a model polyurethane‐based foam. Next, this critical feedback information will be used with the guidance of mass spectrometry to initiate the development of a new, more efficient, tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (FAB) catalyst‐based alkoxylation process for generating the next generation of glycerin‐initiated poly(propylene oxide)‐co‐poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers. Examples will be provided for each step in the FAB‐based optimization process that were required to generate the final product. Following this example, two‐dimensional liquid chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, and ion mobility separations, along with their coupling to mass spectrometry, will be reviewed for their efficiency in characterizing and quantitating the components within these complex polyether polyol mixtures.
Corruption‐induced bank nonperforming loans
Authors: Tao Yunqing , Ye Yongwei , Hou Wanyue 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBy introducing China's anticorruption movement, we establish the causal effect of corruption on nonperforming loans (NPLs). Through manual collection of all publicly available bank data and difference‐in‐differences (DID) regression analysis, the results show that the anticorruption movement significantly reduces NPLs, indicating that corruption leads to NPLs. In addition, the anticorruption movement is more effective in reducing NPLs for banks with higher risks, suggesting the existence of risk prevention mechanisms. Finally, our main conclusions are more pronounced in state‐owned commercial banks, banks located in regions with strong legal environment, and unlisted banks. Overall, this paper argues that corruption is also a factor leading to NPLs and provides solid empirical evidence for the anticorruption movement to reduce NPLs in China.
Caregiver‐based perception of disease burden in Schaaf‐Yang syndrome
Authors: Dötsch Laura , Matesevac Lisa , Strong Theresa V. , Schaaf Christian P. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundSchaaf‐Yang syndrome (SYS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by truncating variants in the paternally expressed MAGEL2 gene in the Prader‐Willi syndrome‐region on chromosome 15q. In addition to hypotonia and intellectual disability, individuals with SYS are frequently affected by neonatal contractures and autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we focus on the burden of disease on patients and their families for the first time.MethodsBased on the online SYS Patient Voices Survey the perspective of 81 primary caregivers on SYS was assessed.ResultsThe perceived severity of muscular and developmental manifestations dominated the evaluation of the phenotype in early childhood, while behavioral issues were considered more impactful later in life. Importantly, an apprehension toward symptoms with a later onset was observed in caregivers of younger children. Available therapeutic options, while mostly effective, did not sufficiently alleviate the total burden of disease. Overall, parents stated that caring for an individual with SYS was very challenging, affecting their daily lives and long‐term planning.ConclusionOur study demonstrates the necessity for treatments that, adapted to age and in accordance with the caregivers' prioritization, improve the patients' medical condition and thus facilitate their and their families' social participation.
Development of a morphologically realistic mouse phantom for pre‐clinical photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Grasso Valeria , Raymond Jason L. , Willumeit‐Römer Regine , Joseph James , Jose Jithin 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundCharacterizations based on anatomically realistic phantoms are highly effective to perform accurate technical validation of imaging systems. Specifically for photoacoustic imaging (PAI), although a variety of phantom models with simplified geometries are reported, an unmet need still exists to establish morphologically realistic heterogeneous pre‐clinical phantoms. So the development of a mouse‐mimicking phantom can reduce the use of animals for the validation and standardization studies of pre‐clinical PAI systems and thus eventually translate the PAI technology to clinical research.PurposeHere we designed, developed, and fabricated a stable phantom that mimics the detailed morphology of a mouse, to be used as a realistic tool for PAI.MethodsThe mouse phantom, has been designed by using a combination of image modeling and 3D‐printing techniques. As a tissue‐mimicking material, we have used copolymer‐in‐oil‐based material that was recently proposed by the International Photoacoustic Standardization Consortium (IPASC). In particular, the anatomically realistic phantom has been modeled by using the real atlas of a mouse as a reference. The mouse phantom includes a 3D‐printed skeleton and the main abdominal organs such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys obtained by using doped copolymer‐in‐oil material with 3D‐printed molds. In addition, the acoustic and optical properties of the tissue‐mimicking material and the long‐term stability have been broadly characterized.ResultsFurthermore, our studies showed that the phantom is durable and stable for more than 200 days, under normal storage and repeated use. Fabrication protocol is easy to reproduce. As a result, the proposed morphologically realistic mouse phantom offers durability, material compatibility, and an unprecedented realistic resemblance to the actual rodents’ anatomy in PAI.ConclusionThis durable morphologically realistic mouse phantom would minimize the animal experiments in compliance with the 3R principle of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. To our knowledge, this is the first time an anatomically realistic heterogeneous mouse phantom has been proposed for PAI in pre‐clinical animal imaging and tested its durability over 200 days.
Optimal targeted mass screening in non‐uniform populations with multiple tests and schemes
Authors: Lin Jiayi , Aprahamian Hrayer , Golovko George 
Published: August 2023

AbstractWe study the problem of designing optimal targeted mass screening of non‐uniform populations. Mass screening is an essential tool that is widely utilized in a variety of settings, for example, preventing infertility through screening programs for sexually transmitted diseases, ensuring a safe blood supply for transfusion, and mitigating the transmission of infectious diseases. The objective of mass screening is to maximize the overall classification accuracy under limited budget. In this paper, we address this problem by proposing a proactive optimization‐based framework that factors in population heterogeneity, limited budget, different testing schemes, the availability of multiple assays, and imperfect assays. By analyzing the resulting optimization problem, we take advantage of the structure of the problem as a multi‐dimensional fractional knapsack problem and identify an efficient globally convergent threshold‐style solution scheme that fully characterizes an optimal solution across the entire budget spectrum. Using real‐world data, we conduct a geographic‐based nationwide case study on targeted COVID‐19 screening in the United States. Our results reveal that the identified screening strategies substantially outperform conventional practices by significantly lowering misclassifications while utilizing the same amount of budget. Moreover, our results provide valuable managerial insights with regard to the distribution of testing schemes, assays, and budget across different geographic regions.
Pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes among breast cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Azizi Marzieh , Ebrahimi Elham , Moghadam Zahra Behboodi , Shahhosseini Zohreh , Modarres Maryam 
Published: August 2023

AbstractAimThis study investigated the pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and breast cancer (BC) recurrence status after pregnancy among BC survivors.DesignA systematic review.MethodsElectronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science [WOS], Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Scientific Information Database were systematically searched. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Observational studies reported the pregnancy rate, maternal and neonatal outcomes among reproductive‐aged BC survivors, and the recurrence status of BC after pregnancy were eligible to include in this study.ResultsOf the 29 included studies, 13 studies were prospective cohorts or prospective multicenter or population‐based cohorts, 14 studies were retrospective cohort or retrospective population‐based cohort studies, and two studies were cross‐sectional retrospective surveys or population‐based descriptive studies. This systematic review showed that the pregnancy rate was estimated at 3.1%–48.5% among BC survivors who attempted to conceive. The most prevalent maternal outcomes of pregnancy were miscarriage (1.8%–33.3%) and induced abortion (5.0%–44%) as well as preterm birth (PTB) or very PTB (1.2%–21.1%), and twin birth (1.1%–38.8%) were the most prevalent neonatal outcomes occurring among BC survivors, respectively. In addition, most of the included studies indicated that pregnancy had no adverse effect on the status of BC recurrence among survivors. Surviving women can be encouraged and receive a carefully multidisciplinary approach regarding healthy pregnancy.No Patient or Public Contribution.
Asian females without diabetes are protected from obesity‐related dysregulation of glucose metabolism compared with males
Authors: Lee Michelle H. , Febriana Eveline , Lim Maybritte , Baig Sonia , Halter Jeffrey B. , Magkos Faidon , Toh Sue‐Anne 
Published: August 2023

AbstractObjectiveThe impact of obesity on the risk for type 2 diabetes differs between males and females; however, the underlying reasons are unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sex on obesity‐driven changes in the mechanisms regulating glucose metabolism (insulin sensitivity and secretion) among Asian individuals without diabetes in Singapore.MethodsThe study assessed glucose tolerance using oral glucose tolerance test, insulin‐mediated glucose uptake using hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp, acute insulin response using an intravenous glucose challenge, and insulin secretion rates in the fasting state and in response to glucose ingestion using mathematical modeling in 727 males and 952 females who had normal body weight (n = 602, BMI < 23 kg/m2), overweight (n = 662, 23 ≤ BMI < 27.5), or obesity (n = 415, BMI ≥ 27.5).ResultsThere were no sex differences among lean individuals. Obesity gradually worsened metabolic function, and the progressive adverse effects of obesity on insulin action and secretion were more pronounced in males than females, such that among participants with obesity, females had greater insulin sensitivity, lower insulin secretion, and lower fasting insulin concentration than males. The increase in waist to hip ratio with increasing BMI was more pronounced in males than females.ConclusionsThe female sex exerts a protective effect on obesity‐driven dysregulation of glucose metabolism in Asian individuals without diabetes.