bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closer to the people? Determinants of citizen–MP contact in Africa
Authors: Demarest Leila , Veenendaal Wouter
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we investigate the determinants of contact between citizens and Members of Parliament (MPs) in Africa by combining theories of contact developed in advanced Western democracies with theories of clientelism developed in the Global South. Based on Afrobarometer data matched with constituency‐level electoral data, we provide a first analysis of the determinants of citizen–MP contact in 32 African countries, encompassing a broad range of regime types. We find that smaller districts and single‐member districts strengthen contact across regime types, while electoral competitiveness is only positively associated with contact in more democratic settings. In line with clientelist theories of public resource access, district links to national ruling coalitions are positively associated with contact, but we find little evidence of partisan bias. Overall, we find that contact theories travel remarkably well across regions and regime types, and we caution against interpreting clientelistic contacts as harmful for democracy.
Movement Awareness Therapies in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Bravo Cristina , Hernández‐García Didier , Trinidad‐Fernández Manuel , Badia Gina , Solé Silvia , Serrano José
Published: October 2024

Given the rising prevalence and complexity of eating disorders, a comprehensive multidisciplinary holistic approach is necessary. This work aimed to assess the effectiveness of body and movement awareness therapies in patients with eating disorders. Search strategy was undertaken using several scientific health databases. Articles were eligible if they were randomized controlled trials analyzing the effects of movement and body awareness therapies in eating disorders. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) statement for systematic reviews was followed and the risk of bias was assessed using the “Cochrane Collaboration Tool to assess the risk of bias.” 11 articles met the inclusion criteria, including 437 patients. No high‐quality randomized controlled trials were found. Forest plot analysis of the Eating Disorder Examination scale showed a difference favors to body awareness therapies but not significantly neither homogeneous. The interventions analyzed included yoga, body awareness therapy, dance, and psychomotor therapy. Body awareness therapies provide some additional benefits for eating disorder symptoms, such as emotion regulation, self‐criticism, self‐confidence, self‐compassion, anxiety, body attitude, eating disorder symptoms, and quality of life.
Herbarium specimens reveal a cryptic invasion of polyploid Centaurea stoebe in Europe
Authors: Rosche Christoph , Broennimann Olivier , Novikov Andriy , Mrázová Viera , Boiko Ganna V. , Danihelka Jiří , Gastner Michael T. , Guisan Antoine , Kožić Kevin , Lehnert Marcus , Müller‐Schärer Heinz , Nagy Dávid U. , Remelgado Ruben , Ronikier Michał , Selke Julian A. , Shiyan Natalia M. , Suchan Tomasz , Thoma Arpad E. , Zdvořák Pavel , Mráz Patrik
Published: October 2024

Numerous plant species are expanding their native ranges due to anthropogenic environmental change. Because cytotypes of polyploid complexes often show similar morphologies, there may be unnoticed range expansions (i.e. cryptic invasions) of one cytotype into regions where only the other cytotype is native.

We critically revised herbarium specimens of diploid and tetraploid Centaurea stoebe, collected across Europe between 1790 and 2023. Based on their distribution in natural and relict habitats and phylogeographic data, we estimated the native ranges of both cytotypes.

Diploids are native across their entire European range, whereas tetraploids are native only to South‐Eastern Europe and have recently expanded their range toward Central Europe. The proportion of tetraploids has exponentially increased over time in their expanded but not in their native range. This cryptic invasion predominantly occurred in ruderal habitats and enlarged the climatic niche of tetraploids toward a more oceanic climate.

We conclude that spatio‐temporally explicit assessments of range shifts, habitat preferences and niche evolution can improve our understanding of cryptic invasions. We also emphasize the value of herbarium specimens for accurate estimation of species´ native ranges, with fundamental implications for the design of research studies and the assessment of biodiversity trends.
Mixed active and passive forest restoration facilitates plant diversity recovery in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Aleeje Alfred , Ehbrecht Martin , Ahimbisibwe Vianny , Höhl Markus , Günter Sven , Stanturf John A. , Bolte Andreas
Published: October 2024

Global deforestation and forest degradation threaten the sustainability of natural and human systems. Forest landscape restoration, through active approaches such as plantations, woodlots, boundary planting, and agroforestry, and passive approaches like exclosures, presents an opportunity to mitigate adverse effects, enhance ecosystem service recovery, and associated benefits for livelihoods. Here, using different spatial scales, we compare the contribution of both approaches to the recovery of plant diversity in southern Ethiopia. Using forest inventory data (891 plots) from multi‐aged stands, we estimated and compared alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ) diversity in regeneration and tree layers between the approaches. We observed increasing α‐diversity in the order grazing lands‐active‐passive‐forest sites. β‐Diversity revealed similarity between passively restored sites and natural forests. γ‐Diversity was higher in active restoration for the regeneration layer, but passive restoration had higher γ‐diversity in the tree layer. For both approaches, γ‐diversity was consistently highest in intermediate‐aged stands (10–20 years). Results highlight the potential of active restoration strategies to facilitate vegetation recovery in human‐dominated landscapes, especially when management allows natural regeneration, while stand age variation may be associated with disturbance intensities for both approaches. Our results support a paradigm shift toward implementation of a mixture of these approaches in the landscapes to meet increasing human demands while restoring important ecosystem services like biodiversity. We recommend enhancing species diversity on restored sites to improve performance and ecosystem service recovery. On actively restored sites, we recommend protecting regenerated species; on passively restored sites, enrichment planting, increased protection, and sustainable utilization.
Natural and agricultural disturbances differentially impact seedling emergence from soil seed banks in hyperarid ecosystems
Authors: Youssef Sami , Boivin Stéphane , Sallio Robin , Massacrier Viviane , Nespoulous Jérôme , Fendane Yassine , Boukcim Hassan , Almalki Sami D. , Lee Benjamin P. Y.‐H. , Mohamed Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Saudi Arabia has implemented ambitious environmental protection programs by creating numerous nature reserves throughout the country. Establishment of the latter nature reserves has led to farm abandonment and the initiation of ecosystem recovery processes. Agricultural practices are known to impact the structure and physicochemical properties of soils while also often markedly affecting natural ecosystem restoration processes. Moreover, weed proliferation in crop fields may modify soil seed banks (SSB), thereby impacting subsequent vegetation recovery. Therefore, it is essential to assess SSB compositions in degraded sites, such as abandoned farms (AF), so as to identify weed species and design efficient restoration strategies in hyperarid ecosystems. In this study, SSB compositions in upper and deep soil layers, standing vegetation compositions, and soil chemical properties were analyzed and compared for two natural ecosystems (NE), two abandoned orchards (AO), two AF, and two natural evaporite basins (EB). NE, AO, AF, and EB all exhibited similar chemical properties, suggesting that former agricultural activities have been guided by a fine understanding of the local environments. Agriculture had impacted the species composition of the observed standing vegetation and germinable SSBs, which could be partly explained by soil property modifications. The findings highlighted that SSBs would warrant detailed study prior to designing ecological restoration strategies, and that the drivers of horizontal and vertical weed dissemination in hyperarid ecosystems should also be explored to gain further insight into weed proliferation patterns and to adapt restoration strategies accordingly.
Contemporary Concise Review 2023: Interstitial lung disease
Authors: Moodley Yuben
Published: October 2024

SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS

In this review, we have discussed several important developments in 2023 in Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). The association of pollution with genetic predispositions increased the risk of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). An interesting comorbidity of malnutrition was not adequately recognized in ILD. Novel genes have been identified in IPF involving predominantly short telomere length and surfactant protein production leading to alveolar epithelial cell dysfunction. Genetics also predicted progression in IPF. Crosstalk between vascular endothelial cells and fibroblasts in IPF mediated by bone morphogenic protein signalling may be important for remodelling of the lung. A novel modality for monitoring of disease included the 4‐min gait speed. New treatment modalities include inhaled pirfenidone, efzofitimod, for sarcoidosis, and earlier use of immunosuppression in connective tissue disease‐ILD.
Becoming ‘more like a Finn’: In‐visibility and the struggle for belonging in Finland
Authors: Lefort Bruno , Romashov Vadim
Published: October 2024

Nationalist practices and visionaries have a profound influence on those who are categorized as ‘foreign’ or ‘non‐belonging’ to the nation. Based on ethnographic explorations among Russian‐speakers and people with diverse Middle Eastern backgrounds in Finland, this article revisits the concept of in‐visibility as one possible avenue to expose the everyday struggles for belonging that these populations experience. We explore how dynamics of exclusion and inclusion at work in the wider society engender specific identification patterns that ultimately reproduce and reshuffle hierarchies between people. We argue that in their struggle for belonging, people categorized as ‘foreign’ in the nationalist imagination develop responsive tactics of becoming visible and invisible to cast themselves as full members of the society. However, in doing so, they find themselves tangled into hierarchies and power dynamics of exclusion at the core of strategies of visioning embedded into the social structures of the securitizing racial welfare state.
Studies on Dry Sliding Wear Mechanisms of Al7075/Si3N4 Composites
Authors: Kantha Rao Jalli , Madhusudhan Reddypogula , Babu Rao Thella
Published: October 2024

In this investigation, Al7075 aluminum alloy reinforced with Si3N4 particles (3, 6, 9, and 12 wt%) was used as reinforcements to manufacture composites through a stir-casting approach. The microstructural characteristics have shown significant grain refinement owing to the presence of Si3N4 particle distribution during the solidification. SEM micrographs confirm the uniform distribution of Si3N4 particles with considerably fewer particle agglomerations throughout the matrix alloy. The reinforcement particle cluster formation is relatively increased for increasing the Si3N4 content. The SEM and EDS analyses showed good integrity at the matrix–refinement interface with no interfacial compound formation. The mechanical properties, such as hardness (up to 118 BHN), tensile strength (up to 281 MPa), and yield strength (up to 178 MPa), were enhanced by 30.69% and 20.27%, respectively. The wear-rate and coefficient of friction of the composites were evaluated with increasing percentages of Si3N4 content. The average wear-rate of the composites is 0.019, 0.0085, 0.0075, and 0.0065 mm3/m, respectively, for the increased Si3N4 ceramic particulate content from 3 to 12 wt%, while the average COF of the composites is 0.45, 0.37, 0.32 and 0.28 respectively. With the addition of Si3N4 particulate content, the wear resistance performance of the composites at 30 N has shown up to 46% enhancement and increased from 0.0052 to 0.0103 mm3/m with the increasing sliding velocity from 1.5 to 3.5 m/s for varying Si3N4 particulate content from 3 to 12 wt%, while reducing the COF up to 65%, and from 0.43 to 0.27. Different wear mechanisms are characterized by identifying the typical features of wear on the SEM micrographs of the worn surfaces. The dominant wear mechanisms of the composites are typically observed as abrasion, oxidation, delamination and melt wear. The mechanism and behavior of composites under dry sliding conditions are analyzed through the construction of wear maps. The windows of wear mechanisms and progression in terms of load and sliding velocity for the composites with various wt% of Si3N4 content were identified, analyzed, and presented.
Designs of Upper Limb Tremor Suppression Orthoses: Efficacy and Wearer's Comfort
Authors: ChiGan MoYan , Chen Manlong , Jing Min
Published: October 2024

Tremor is a rhythmic, involuntary oscillatory movement that severely affects some aspects of a patient's daily life. The use of wearable tremor-suppressing orthoses has become an effective, noninvasive treatment method for controlling tremors. This article summarizes recent developments in upper limb tremor suppression orthoses, aiming to provide a foundation for future research. By analyzing the working mechanisms, degrees-of-freedom (DOFs), weight, and tremor suppression effectiveness of various types of orthoses, the following conclusions are drawn: We found that differences in the working mechanism and the number of suppression directions are related to the weight of the device; weight, in turn, is a major factor affecting the comfort of the orthoses; and the combination of the number and weight of the damping direction affects the effect of the damping equipment. Balancing these three factors should be a key focus of future research. Moreover, researchers are placing greater emphasis on the comfort of the wearer during the development of these orthoses.
The Influence of Thermophysical Parameters on Thermal Runaway Characteristics for Pouch-Type Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Yan , Lv Min
Published: October 2024

The thermal variation during the temperature rise process of batteries is closely related to multiple physical parameters. Establishing a direct relationship between these parameters and thermal runaway (TR) features under abusive conditions is challenging using theoretical equations due to complex electrochemical and thermal coupling. In this paper, a high-temperature thermal runaway model of pouch-type lithium-ion battery is established through electrical-thermal coupled approach, demonstrating a good agreement between the simulation and experimental results. The results reveal distinct trends in thermal parameters of the early temperature rise, trigger time for TR, and peak temperature during TR process, for varying convective heat transfer coefficient, cell specific heat capacity, cell density, and cell thermal conductivity. Across various convective heat transfer coefficients, the rates of temperature increase, moments of TR, and peak temperatures within a battery emerge as the cumulative outcomes of competing processes of the intricate exothermic secondary reactions within the battery, and the heat transfer with the surroundings. Batteries with lower heat capacity exhibit reduced thermal inertia and heightened sensitivity to temperature changes. Alterations in the thermal capacity of a battery wield a profoundly significant impact upon the moment of thermal runaway within the battery. Enhancing the thermal conductivity yields limited improvements in heat dissipation during thermal runaway primarily due to the relatively small geometrical scale of the battery. Results of this paper can provide valuable insights for size optimization design, thermal management system optimization design, thermal runaway safety warning, and prevention of Lithium-ion batteries.
Investigation of Water Film Dynamics on the Surface of an Airfoil in a High-Speed Flow and Subsequent Ligament Formation and Breakup From the Trailing Edge
Authors: Safiullah Safiullah , McDonell Vince , Tabata Soichiro , Senoo Shigeki , Esquivias Bradnon , Hickey Brendan
Published: October 2024

In this work, the dynamics of a liquid film on the surface of NACA 0012 airfoil placed in a high-speed air flow is investigated. The findings complement previous results obtained on time averaged ligament behavior and droplet sizes generated by the same airfoil. Experimental studies were carried out to assess the film thickness, droplet shedding, and the dynamics of the sheet. In the present work, air velocities up to 175 m/s were used with water films flowing between 1.4 and 2.6 cm2/s. The water film was introduced onto one side of the airfoil surface through a series of 0.5 mm holes separated by 1 mm at a location 35 mm downstream of the leading edge of the vane. The results were obtained using four experimental tools. The first is a point measurement of the dynamic film thickness using a confocal laser induced fluorescence method. This spatially resolved measurement provides time resolved measurement of the instantaneous liquid film thickness at specific points on the vane surface. This is complimented by time averaged images of the film thickness on the entire vane surface. Third, high speed videos are obtained to study the accumulation and breakup of the liquid at the trailing edge of vane. Finally, laser diffraction and Phase Doppler interferometry were used to document the spray dynamics downstream of the vane. The results illustrate that the average film thickness decreases with air velocity and increases with the water flowrate. The results are consistent with the previous studies and suggest that the dominant frequency of liquid film wave, ligament breakup length, drop size and spray concentration increase with the air velocity and is modestly affected by water flowrate. Finally, design tools are provided to predict the average film thickness and dominant frequencies of the film thickness, ligament breakup, spray concentration and droplet average size.
Teaching labs for blind students: Equipment to measure the inertia of simple objects
Authors: Lisboa Alfredo , Peña Francisco J.
Published: October 2024

This article describes a laboratory experiment for blind students to measure the moment of inertia of simple objects; in this case, that of a disc about its axis of symmetry. We adapted our usual lab to modify the data collection process, using an open-source electronic platform to convert visual signals into acoustic signals. This allowed blind students at our University to participate alongside their classmates in the mechanics lab.
Localization of partial electrical discharges using compressive spherical frequency-difference beamforming
Authors: Lee Jeung-Hoon , Park Yongsung , Gerstoft Peter , Kim Yonghyun
Published: October 2024

Accurate localization of partial electrical discharges is essential for the diagnosis of high-voltage systems. The current study achieves this by employing an acoustic sensor array and a beamforming approach. The occurrence of a partial discharge is accompanied by the emission of high-frequency sounds in the ultrasonic range, making localization a challenging task requiring many sensors to avoid spatial aliasing. Compressive frequency-difference beamforming, as previously proposed, can be effective in addressing this issue. We expand the method to include near-field localization by utilizing a spherical wave and propose a two-step normalization process. This eliminates the bias associated with nonplanar waves and standardizes the field variables, thereby preserving only the phase and relative amplitude information. A distributed algorithm based on the alternating direction multiplier method is used to solve the associated convex optimization problem. The proposed method is demonstrated using simulated and experimental data.
“There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Approach”: Challenges and Strategies Coaching Preschooler Sport in Canada
Authors: Harlow Meghan , Fraser-Thomas Jessica
Published: October 2024

Coaches are seminal figures within sport, playing a key role in youths’ development, particularly when their approach and practices suit the age and context in which they are coaching. However, little is known about coaches’ experiences within early years (<6) sport. This case study examined coaches’ experiences in early years sport, revealing challenges-faced and strategies drawn-upon for effective coaching. Semistructured interviews with 10 coaches (Mage = 37.8; 7 male) leading multisport, soccer, dance, rugby, hockey, and t-ball programming to children 2–5 years contributed insights. Key challenges included children’s resistance to participate and varied ability levels; however, these were mitigated by creative best practices focused on age-appropriate delivery (e.g., use of stories/imagination, “classroom” management). Notably, effective strategies were often offered by coaches from private and club-based programs, whereas community-based volunteer coaches received less age-specific training and resources and had more turnover. Broader societal-level challenges related to parental expectations and pressures were also discussed. Findings highlight early years sport as a unique context in which interpersonal and intrapersonal coaching knowledge appear most critical. Identified best practices may support early years sport coaches in their day-to-day roles while highlighting the importance of preparing all early years sport coaches to deliver effective age-appropriate programming.
What Do High-Performance Football Coaches Need to Know About the Coach–Athlete Relationship? Implications for Formal Coach Education
Authors: Newland Andrew , Cronin Colum , Cook Gillian , Whitehead Amy
Published: October 2024

A high-quality coach–athlete (C–A) relationship improves athlete well-being and performance but has been underrepresented in formal coach education. Eleven football coaches, working in some of the highest profile positions in England, were interviewed. We investigate to what extent their formal coach education experiences influenced their understanding of the C–A relationship. We explore their perceptions of the knowledge, relating to the C–A relationship, that could be included in formal coach education courses. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 coaches. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis generated the following five themes: (a) an incongruence between the importance of the C–A relationship and its prominence in coach education, (b) interpersonal competencies and a progressive approach to the C–A relationship, (c) understand the unique needs of high-performance athletes, and (d) build a culture conducive to high-quality C–A relationships. Findings demonstrate the C–A relationship is underrepresented in the main English FA Coaching Pathway and provides insights into the knowledge that could be incorporated into courses to meet the needs of coaches. Future research should explore the athlete’s perspective, relating to the knowledge coaches require to develop high-quality C–A relationships within high-performance football settings.
Factors Influencing Length of Care in Physical Therapy After Pediatric and Adolescent Concussion
Authors: Karl Michael , Fedonni Daniele , Master Christina L. , Arbogast Kristy B. , Greenberg Elliot , Wilkes James
Published: October 2024

Context: Social determinants of health including insurance type, income, race, and ethnicity have been shown to influence the utilization of physical therapy and recovery after an orthopedic injury. The influence of social determinants of health on the utilization of physical therapy and recovery from concussion is not well understood. Design: Prospective observational registry study in a specialty concussion program. Methods: Patients diagnosed with a concussion using the Postconcussion Symptom Inventory and the visio-vestibular examination (VVE) who were also referred to physical therapy were included. The main outcomes of interest were the number of days from referral to initial physical therapy evaluation and the number of physical therapy visits completed. Information related to patients’ age, race, ethnicity, sex, insurance type, and Child Opportunity Index was extracted from the registry. Multivariate and univariate regressions were used to assess the associations of each sociodemographic characteristic with the outcomes. Results: A total of 341 patients diagnosed with concussion between January 2017 and December 2023 met inclusion criteria. The average age was 14.77, and 64% were female. Patients’ age, race, ethnicity, insurance type, and Child Opportunity Index were not associated with days to evaluation or length of care in physical therapy. Higher PCSI scores in children under 12 years (coefficient: 0.17, 95% CI, 0.06–0.29) and female sex (coefficient: 1.2, 95% CI, 0.26–2.1) were associated with a longer course of care in physical therapy. Patients with an abnormal VVE score had on average 2.1 more physical therapy visits than those with a normal VVE score (coefficient: 2.1, 95% CI, 0.73–3.5). Conclusions: Higher PCSI scores in children, female sex, and higher VVE scores in general predicted a longer course of care in physical therapy. Implementation of a clinical care pathway for concussion care using the PCSI and the VVE may be one strategy to help mitigate systemic factors that might otherwise negatively influence access to physical therapy.
Subjective well-being across the life course among non-industrialized populations
Authors: Gurven Michael , Buoro Yoann , Rodriguez Daniel Eid , Sayre Katherine , Trumble Benjamin , Pyhälä Aili , Kaplan Hillard , Angelsen Arild , Stieglitz Jonathan , Reyes-García Victoria
Published: October 2024

Subjective well-being (SWB) is often described as being U-shaped over adulthood, declining to a midlife slump and then improving thereafter. Improved SWB in later adulthood has been considered a paradox given age-related declines in health and social losses. While SWB has mostly been studied in high-income countries, it remains largely unexplored in rural subsistence populations lacking formal institutions that reliably promote social welfare. Here, we evaluate the age profile of SWB among three small-scale subsistence societies (
n
= 468; study 1), forest users from 23 low-income countries (
n
= 6987; study 2), and Tsimane’ horticulturalists (
n
= 1872; study 3). Across multiple specifications, we find variability in SWB age profiles. In some cases, we find no age-related differences in SWB or even inverted U-shapes. Adjusting for confounders reduces observed age effects. Our findings highlight variability in average well-being trajectories over the life course. Ensuring successful aging will require a greater focus on cultural and socioecological determinants of individual trajectories.
Enhancing economic multifunctionality without compromising multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality via forest enrichment
Authors: Topanotti Larissa Regina , Fuchs Jasper M. , Albert Matthias , Schick Jan , Penanhoat Alice , Lu Jing-Zhong , Pérez Carmen Alicia Rivera , Foltran Estela Covre , Appleby Scott , Wildermuth Benjamin , Stuckenberg Thalea , Likulunga Likulunga Emmanuel , Glatthorn Jonas , Schuldt Andreas , Polle Andrea , Balkenhol Niko , Scheu Stefan , Ammer Christian , Paul Carola , Guerrero-Ramírez Nathaly
Published: October 2024

Enriching tree species–poor and less productive forests by introducing economically valuable species is a strategy proposed for achieving multipurpose forest management. However, empirical evidence from managed and mature forests on the impact of this enrichment on ecological (multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality) and economic dimensions remains scarce, particularly when nonnative species are used. Here, we propose and test a framework that integrates economic multifunctionality, encompassing timber production–oriented goals and resistance against disturbances, with multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality in European beech forest stands enriched with conifers. Our results show that enriched beech forest stands (~80 years old) can provide high levels of economic multifunctionality without compromising multidiversity and ecosystem multifunctionality. In comparison to pure beech stands, enriched stands with Douglas-fir supported win-win-win situations for these three dimensions. Our findings contribute to the discussion of integrating biodiversity, ecosystem, and economic functions, providing empirical evidence for future forest management.
Youths’ sensitivity to social media feedback: A computational account
Authors: da Silva Pinho Ana , Céspedes Izquierdo Violeta , Lindström Björn , van den Bos Wouter
Published: October 2024

While it is often argued that continuous exposure to social feedback is specifically challenging for the hypersensitive developing brain, empirical evidence is lacking. Across three studies, we reveal the developmental differences and computational mechanisms that underlie the social media engagement and feedback processing of adolescents and adults. First, using a reinforcement learning model on a large Instagram trace dataset (
N
= 16,613, 1.6+ million posts), we show that adolescents are more sensitive to social feedback than adults. Second, in an experimental study (
N
= 194), we show that adolescents’ mood is affected more strongly by a reduction in likes than adults. Last, in a neuroimaging study (
N
= 96), we show that social media feedback sensitivity is related to individual differences in subcortical-limbic brain volumes of emerging adults. Together, these findings highlight the need for digital competence programs to help youth manage the constant feedback they encounter on social media platforms.
GHZ protocols enhance frequency metrology despite spontaneous decay
Authors: Kielinski Timm , Schmidt Piet O. , Hammerer Klemens
Published: October 2024

The use of correlated states and measurements promises improvements in the accuracy of frequency metrology and the stability of atomic clocks. However, developing strategies robust against dominant noise processes remains challenging. We address the issue of decoherence due to spontaneous decay and show that Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ) states, in conjunction with a correlated measurement and nonlinear estimation strategy, achieve gains of up to 2.25 decibel, comparable to fundamental bounds for up to about 80 atoms in the presence of decoherence. This result is unexpected because GHZ states do not provide any enhancement under dephasing due to white frequency noise compared to the standard quantum limit of uncorrelated states. The gain arises from a veto signal, which allows for the detection and mitigation of errors caused by spontaneous emission events. Through comprehensive Monte Carlo simulations of atomic clocks, we demonstrate the robustness of the GHZ protocol.
Repeated COVID-19 mRNA-based vaccination contributes to SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody responses in the mucosa
Authors: Declercq Jozefien , Gerlo Sarah , Van Nevel Sharon , De Ruyck Natalie , Holtappels Gabriele , Delesie Liesbeth , Tobback Els , Lammens Inés , Gerebtsov Nikita , Sedeyn Koen , Saelens Xavier , Lambrecht Bart N. , Gevaert Philippe , Vandekerckhove Linos , Vanhee Stijn
Published: October 2024

To prevent infection by respiratory viruses and consequently limit virus circulation, vaccines need to promote mucosal immunity. The extent to which the currently used messenger RNA (mRNA)–based COVID-19 vaccines induce mucosal immunity remains poorly characterized. We evaluated mucosal neutralizing antibody responses in a cohort of 183 individuals. Participants were sampled at several time points after primary adenovirus vector–based or mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccination and after mRNA-based booster vaccinations. Our findings revealed that repeated vaccination with mRNA boosters promoted severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) neutralizing antibodies in nasal secretions. Nasal and serum neutralizing antibody titers of both IgG and IgA isotypes correlated to one another. We investigated the source of these mucosal antibodies in a mouse model wherein mice received repeated mRNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2. These experiments indicated that neutralizing antibody–producing cells reside in the spleen and bone marrow, whereas no proof of tissue homing to the respiratory mucosa was observed, despite the detection of mucosal antibodies. Serum transfer experiments confirmed that circulating antibodies were able to migrate to the respiratory mucosa. Collectively, these results demonstrate that, especially upon repeated vaccination, the currently used COVID-19 mRNA vaccines can elicit mucosal neutralizing antibodies and that vaccination might also stimulate mucosal immunity induced by previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, migration of circulating antibodies to the respiratory mucosa might be a main mechanism. These findings advance our understanding of mRNA vaccine–induced immunity and have implications for the design of vaccine strategies to combat respiratory infections.
Population pharmacokinetics of cabotegravir following intramuscular thigh injections in adults with and without HIV
Authors: Han Kelong , D'Amico Ronald D. , Spreen William R. , Ford Susan L.
Published: October 2024

Cabotegravir intramuscular gluteal injection is approved for HIV treatment (with rilpivirine) and prevention. Thigh muscle is a potential alternative injection site. We aim to characterize cabotegravir pharmacokinetics and its association with demographics following intramuscular thigh injection in comparison with gluteal injection using population pharmacokinetic (PPK) analysis. Fourteen HIV-negative participants received 600 mg single thigh injection in phase 1 study 208832 and 118 participants with HIV received thigh injections 400 mg monthly 4× or 600 mg once-every-2-months 2× after ≥3 years of gluteal injections in phase 3b study ATLAS-2M provided 1,249 cabotegravir concentrations from 366 thigh injections and 1,998 concentrations from 1,618 gluteal injections. The established gluteal PPK model was modified by adding thigh injection compartment and fit to pharmacokinetic data following both gluteal and thigh injections, enabling within-person comparison in ATLAS-2M. Gluteal parameters were fixed. Similar to the gluteal absorption rate constant (KA
gluteal
), the thigh absorption rate constant (KA
thigh
) was slower in females than males and in participants with higher BMI. KA
thigh
was strongly correlated with KA
gluteal
(correlation coefficient 0.766), best described by the additive linear relationship KA
thigh
= KA
gluteal
+ 0.0002527 h
−1
. Terminal half-life of thigh injection was 26% (male) and 39% (female) shorter than gluteal injection. Relative bioavailability of thigh to gluteal was estimated to be 89.9%. The impact of covariates on cabotegravir exposure following thigh injections was ≤35%. In conclusion, cabotegravir absorption following thigh injection was correlated with, faster than, and 10% less bioavailable than gluteal injection, and correlated with sex and BMI. The cabotegravir thigh PPK model can inform dosing strategies and future study design.
Candida guilliermondii
fungemia: a 12-year retrospective review of antimicrobial susceptibility patterns at a reference laboratory and tertiary care center
Authors: McHugh Jack W. , Bayless David R. , Ranganath Nischal , Stevens Ryan W. , Kind Dalton R. , Wengenack Nancy L. , Shah Aditya S.
Published: October 2024

The prevalence of invasive candidiasis caused by non-
albicans Candida
species is increasing.
Candida guilliermondii
is an infrequent cause of candidemia but has been associated with decreased susceptibility to triazoles. Clinical data related to the infection with
C. guilliermondii
are sparse. Our study evaluated the antifungal susceptibility testing (AST) for
C. guilliermondii
isolates submitted to a reference laboratory over a 12-year period (2012–2023). AST patterns were examined using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) epidemiological cutoff values (ECVs) and breakpoints. Where isolates were identified from patients treated at our institution, retrospective chart review was performed to describe patient risk factors, treatment approaches, and outcomes associated with
C. guilliermondii
fungemia. One hundred twelve blood culture isolates of
C. guilliermondii
were identified, and clinical data were available for 21 fungemic patients. A significant number of isolates (9.8–20.5%) were observed to be non-wild type for various triazoles. All isolates were susceptible to micafungin. A majority (76.2%) of cases of
C. guilliermondii
fungemia treated at our tertiary care center were hospital-acquired, and two-thirds of patients were immunocompromised at the time of diagnosis. Ten of the 21 patients died within 60 days of fungemia, although mortality was directly or partially attributed to
C. guilliermondii
fungemia in only four cases (19.0%). Echinocandins may be used for empiric therapy for
C. guilliermondii
until the results of AST are available. Further research is required to determine appropriate clinical breakpoints for triazoles.

IMPORTANCE

Our study addresses a significant knowledge gap in the clinical management of this non-
Candida albicans
species. Our retrospective review includes comprehensive AST data for 112
Candida guilliermondii
isolates, which is the largest number of isolates reported from the United States to date. Susceptibility data are supplemented by clinical outcomes, where isolates were identified for patients treated at Mayo Clinic. Key findings from our study include the observation that a notable proportion of
C. guilliermondii
isolates exhibit non-wild-type profiles for various triazoles. Importantly, all isolates remained susceptible to echinocandins, suggesting their efficacy as first-line therapy in the absence of timely susceptibility results. Furthermore, our study highlights the high mortality associated with
C. guilliermondii
fungemia in immunocompromised patients, emphasizing the urgent need for optimized treatment strategies.
Crustal thickening and multipoint delamination for the ca. 90 Ma high-Sr/Y intrusions and the associated porphyry-skarn Cu-Au-Mo mineralization in the western central Lhasa terrane, Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Liqiang , Gao Teng , Li Baoliang , Wang Yong , Huang Hanxiao , Wang Dan
Published: October 2024

The ca. 90 Ma (92–84 Ma) high-Sr/Y intrusions in the western central Lhasa terrane (WCLT) of the Tibetan Plateau record critical information about the late Mesozoic crustal architecture of the Lhasa terrane and may have provided favorable conditions for porphyry mineralization. However, conflicting geodynamic processes have been proposed, and their mineralization potential is unclear. Here, we report the newly discovered Banongzuosi porphyry-skarn Mo-Cu deposit and Qielong skarn Cu-Au and Rongqing porphyry-quartz vein-type Mo mineral prospects. They provide important constraints on the generation of the ca. 90 Ma high-Sr/Y magmas and their associated mineralization potential. Then, integrated studies of the ca. 90 Ma intrusions are performed to address the above issues. Dating shows that intrusions and mineralization in the three areas occurred at 92.4–84.1 Ma. Based on whole-rock geochemistry, the high-Sr/Y intrusions can be divided into low- and high-Mg#-Cr ones. Zircon Hf isotopic data indicate that both ancient and juvenile lower crust existed in the WCLT, with significant juvenile components in the high-Mg# and Cr-rich intrusions. The crustal thickness calculated from the zircon trace element data suggests that the WCLT had thickened crust (>64 km) with local areas thinned by lower crustal delamination at ca. 90 Ma. Regional thickening and local lower crustal delamination formed the low- and high-Mg#-Cr intrusions, respectively. Whole-rock and zircon trace element data reveal that most of the ca. 90 Ma high-Sr/Y intrusions are hydrous and oxidized. The thickened crust resulted in high H2O contents and fO2 of intrusions and promoted porphyry-skarn mineralization. However, crustal thinning and contamination by reduced Precambrian basement decreased the magma fO2 and hindered mineralization. The advantageous tectonic setting and high H2O and fO2 led to the ca. 90 Ma high-Sr/Y intrusions having the potential to form collisional porphyry-skarn Cu-Au-Mo deposits.
Underplating-induced trans-crustal melting and maturation of Neoarchean continental crust in the North China Craton
Authors: Yu Yang , Sun Guozheng , Li Sanzhong , Chen Yuelong , Gao Xiangyu
Published: October 2024

A global change in granitoid compositions from early predominantly sodic tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorites (TTGs) to later TTGs and more potassic granites occurred during the late Archean, coupled with a major period of crustal maturation. However, the detailed relationship between granitoid chemical evolution and the maturing crustal process remains enigmatic. Successive granitoid magmatism including late Neoarchean TTGs and high-K granites occurred in the Western Shandong Province granite-greenstone belt (WSP) of the North China Craton and thus preserves crucial clues of the crustal maturation process. In this study, petrology, whole-rock geochemistry, and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopes are reported for the late Neoarchean TTG gneisses, monzogranites, and minor metabasaltic to andesitic rocks from the WSP. The ca. 2560–2540 Ma TTG gneisses show low MgO, K2O/Na2O, but high (La/Yb)N, Sr/Y, and absence of Eu anomalies, indicating their derivation from partial melting of the thickened lower mafic crust. The ca. 2530–2500 Ma monzogranites are characterized by systematically high SiO2 and K2O/Na2O, but low MgO and Sr/Y, and moderately negative Eu anomalies, revealing they were formed by intracrustal reworking of local TTGs and sedimentary rocks in the middle to upper crust. Geochemical variations of these crustal-derived granitoids suggest that they were formed by melting at gradually higher crustal levels with the melt zone moved gradationally from the eclogite stability field into the plagioclase stability field. The ca. 2530–2500 Ma calc-alkaline metabasaltic to andesitic rocks sourced from metasomatized mantle outline roles of mantle-derived magma underplating in contributions of heating and trans-crustal melting magmatism. The long-term melting processes facilitated the upward movement of volatiles and heat-producing elements from deep to shallow crustal levels, and introduced K-enriched monzogranites into the upper crust, leaving a refractory, strengthening, and tectonically stable lower crust. Secular compositional evolution of crustal-derived granitoids reveals that continuous crustal reworking drove lithosphere differentiation and paved the way for the maturation of the Archean continental crust.
Supplemental Material: Volcanic activity driving rapid organic carbon burial during the Ordovician–Silurian transition
Authors: Liang Chao , Wu Jing , al. et
Published: October 2024

Tables S1–S3: 7 Location information on wells and sections in Figures 1, 3, 5–7, and 9,  and global black shale sequestration of organic carbon during the OST. Supplemental Data S1: Data related to changes in the sedimentary environment at the meter scale samples and at the centimeter scale samples.
Oral varespladib for the treatment of snakebite envenoming in India and the USA (BRAVO): a phase II randomised clinical trial
Authors: Gerardo Charles J , Carter Rebecca W , Kumar Surendra , Shirazi Farshad M , Kotehal Suneetha D , Akpunonu Peter D , Bhalla Ashish , Schwartz Richard B , Bammigatti Chanaveerappa , Manikath Neeraj , Mukherjee Partha P , Arnold Thomas C , Wolk Brian J , S Sheikh Sophia , Sollee Dawn R , Vearrier David J , Francis Samuel J , Aizenberg Adiel , Kumar Harish , Ravikumar Madhu K , Sarkar Sujoy , Haston Taylor , Micciche Andrew , Oomman Suraj C , Owen Jeffery L , Ritter Brandi A , Samuel Stephen P , Lewin Matthew R , Platts-Mills Timothy F
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Snakebite envenoming (SBE) results in over 500 000 deaths or disabling injuries annually. Varespladib methyl, an oral inhibitor of secretory phospholipase A2, is a nearly ubiquitous component of snake venoms. We conducted a phase II clinical trial to assess efficacy and safety of oral varespladib methyl in patients bitten by venomous snakes.

Methods

This double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial enrolled patients in emergency departments in India and the USA. Patients with SBE were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive varespladib methyl or placebo two times per day for 1 week. All patients received standard of care, including antivenom. The primary outcome was change in the composite Snakebite Severity Score (SSS) measuring the severity of envenoming, from baseline to the average composite SSS at 6 and 9 hours.

Results

Among 95 patients randomised August 2021 through November 2022, the most common snakebites were from Russell’s vipers (n=29), copperheads (n=18) and rattlesnakes (n=14). The SSS improved from baseline to the average at 6 and 9 hours by 1.1 (95% CI, 0.7 to 1.6) in the varespladib group versus 1.5 (95% CI, 1.0 to 2.0) in the placebo group (difference −0.4, 95% CI, −0.8 to 0.1, p=0.13). While key secondary outcomes were not statistically different by treatment group, benefit was seen in the prespecified subgroup initiating study drug within 5 hours of bite (n=37). For this early treatment group, clinically important differences were observed for illness severity over the first week, patient-reported function on days 3 and 7 and complete recovery. No death or treatment emergent serious adverse event occurred.

Conclusion

For emergency department treatment of snakebites, the addition of varespladib to antivenom did not find evidence of difference for the primary outcome based on the SSS. A potentially promising signal of benefit was observed in patients initiating treatment within 5 hours of snakebite.
Effects of space allowance on behaviour during lairage, stress physiology, skin lesion scores, and meat quality of market-weight pigs transported in an actively ventilated vehicle in the summer
Authors: Pasquale Vanessa , Bergeron Renée , Devillers Nicolas , Conte Sabine , Faucitano Luigi
Published: October 2024

This study aimed at assessing the effects of space allowance on microclimate and pig stress during transportation in a mechanically-ventilated vehicle. On each journey (6), 114 pigs were randomly assigned to different space allowances (0.46, 0.49, or 0.59 m2/pig) tested in the near-front, middle, and near-rear compartments and on the top, middle, and bottom decks. In each compartment, ambient conditions (e.g., T °C and RH %) were monitored. Behaviour was recorded during lairage. A total of 162 pigs were selected for the analysis of blood hematocrit proportion and lactate, and creatine kinase (CK) concentrations, and the evaluation of meat quality in the loin and ham muscles. The bottom deck was more humid before and during transport ( P ≤ 0.05) and pigs from this location stood and drank more in lairage ( P < 0.001). Pigs transported on the top deck had greater blood lactate and CK concentrations ( P < 0.05) than those transported on the bottom deck, and when transported at 0.49 m2/pig produced paler loins ( P < 0.05) than those transported at 0.46 m2/pig. The within-trailer location had a greater impact on the microclimate, collected animal welfare measures, and meat quality of pigs transported in an actively ventilated trailer than space allowance.