bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating students’ insight after attending a planetarium presentation about the apparent motion of the Sun and stars
Authors: Bekaert Hans , De Cock Mieke , Van Dooren Wim , Van Winckel Hans
Published: May 2024

We present two studies to investigate the extent to which attending a planetarium presentation increases secondary school students’ understanding of the apparent motion of the Sun and stars. In the first study, we used the Apparent Motion of Sun and Stars (AMoSS) test in a pretest/post-test/retention test setting to measure learning gains and improved insight of 404 students (16- to 17-year-olds) after attending a classical planetarium presentation at the Brussels Planetarium. The AMoSS test is a questionnaire on the daily and yearly apparent motion and the observer’s position. It consists of six multiple-choice questions about the Sun and six similar multiple-choice questions about the stars. We asked the students to explain their choices. The learning gains are rather small and the scores improve more on the Sun questions than on the star questions. This difference is largest for questions about the yearly apparent motion. We found that this is due to the fact that many students copy their knowledge about the Sun to the stars. Based on the results of this survey, we developed a new planetarium presentation with particular attention to the use of the celestial sphere model. We also developed a learning module that prepares students at school for this planetarium presentation. In a second study, we measured the learning gains after attending this new planetarium presentation among 339 students, also 16- to 17-year-olds. Some school groups had worked through the preparatory learning module at school and others had not. We find that the learning gains on the star questions are significantly higher than in the first study, due to better scores on the yearly apparent motion questions. In this regard, it is notable that we do not see significant differences between those students who prepared the presentation at school and those who did not. In the second study, the number of students who answer all questions correctly after attending the planetarium presentation or working through the learning module increases, but only significantly for those students who worked through the learning module at school.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fano resonance in excitation spectroscopy and cooling of an optically trapped single atom
Authors: Chow Chang Hoong , Ng Boon Long , Prakash Vindhiya , Kurtsiefer Christian
Published: May 2024

Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) can be used to cool an atom in a harmonic potential close to the ground state by addressing several vibrational modes simultaneously. Previous experimental efforts focus on trapped ions and neutral atoms in a standing wave trap. In this work, we demonstrate EIT cooling of an optically trapped single neutral atom, where the trap frequencies are an order of magnitude smaller than in an ion trap and a standing wave trap. We resolve the Fano resonance feature in fluorescence excitation spectra and the corresponding cooling profile in temperature measurements. A final temperature of around 6 µK is achieved with EIT cooling, a factor of 2 lower than the previous value obtained using polarization gradient cooling.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum counterpart of equipartition theorem in quadratic systems
Authors: Tong Xin-Hai
Published: May 2024

The equipartition theorem is a fundamental law of classical statistical physics, which states that every degree of freedom contributes kBT/2 to the energy, where T is the temperature and kB is the Boltzmann constant. Recent studies have revealed the existence of a quantum version of the equipartition theorem. In the present work, we focus on how to obtain the quantum counterpart of the generalized equipartition theorem for arbitrary quadratic systems in which the multimode Brownian oscillators interact with multiple reservoirs at the same temperature. An alternative method of deriving the energy of the system is also discussed and compared with the result of the quantum version of the equipartition theorem, after which we conclude that the latter is more reasonable. Our results can be viewed as an indispensable generalization of recent works on a quantum version of the equipartition theorem.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Reconstructing effective Hamiltonians from nonequilibrium thermal and prethermal steady states
Authors: Nandy Sourav , Schmitt Markus , Bukov Marin , Lenarčič Zala
Published: May 2024

Reconstructing Hamiltonians from local measurements is key to enabling reliable quantum simulations: both validating the implemented model and identifying any leftover terms with sufficient precision is a problem of increasing importance. Here we propose a deep-learning-assisted variational algorithm for Hamiltonian reconstruction by preprocessing a dataset that is diagnosed to contain thermal measurements of local operators. We demonstrate the efficient and precise reconstruction of local Hamiltonians, while long-range interacting Hamiltonians are reconstructed approximately. Away from equilibrium, for periodically and random multipolar driven systems, we reconstruct the effective Hamiltonian widely used for Floquet engineering of metastable steady states. Moreover, our approach allows us to reconstruct an effective quasilocal Hamiltonian even in the heating regime beyond the validity of the prethermal plateau, where perturbative expansions fail.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Coupled parametric oscillators: From disorder-induced current to asymmetric Ising model
Authors: Han C. , Wang M. , Zhang B. , Dykman M. I. , Chan H. B.
Published: May 2024

We study the effects of the interplay of weak disorder and weak coupling in a system of parametric micromechanical oscillators. Each oscillator is bistable, enabling the mapping of its stable states onto spin states. The coupling changes the rate of interstate switching of an oscillator depending on the state of other oscillators. We demonstrate that the change is exponentially strong and therefore manifests even for weak coupling. Difference in the oscillator eigenfrequencies translates into disorder in the system. The analysis and the experiment show that disorder leads to a nontrivial stationary state that displays current. The system provides a well-controlled and fully characterized implementation of the asymmetric Ising model, in which coupled spins affect each other differently. This model plays an important role in physics and biology. Our findings open the possibilities of constructing and exploring asymmetric Ising systems with controlled parameters and connectivity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quadratic acceleration of multistep probabilistic algorithms for state preparation
Authors: Nishi Hirofumi , Kosugi Taichi , Nishiya Yusuke , Matsushita Yu-ichiro
Published: May 2024

Quantum state preparation is a fundamental building block for various problems on a quantum computer. A nonunitary operator is typically designed to decay unwanted states contained in an initial state using ancilla qubits and a probabilistically action. In this Letter, we clarify that this probabilistic nature is a drag for quantum advantages: The probabilistic algorithms do not accelerate the computational process compared to classical ones. Combining quantum amplitude amplification (QAA) with multistep probabilistic algorithms is proposed to address this drawback, achieving quadratic acceleration and quantum advantages. We also find that the multistep probabilistic method with QAA exhibits advantages over quantum phase estimation in terms of infidelity. We also demonstrate it to confirm the quadratic acceleration, using a probabilistic imaginary-time evolution method as an example.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
From fumble to flourish: how workplace attachment drives service recovery performance
Authors: Hassanie Souad , Karadas Georgiana , Uludag Orhan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory and attachment theory, this paper proposes that employee–organization relationship and satisfaction with work–life balance mediate the influence of workplace attachment on service recovery performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was carried out through the distribution of questionnaires among a sample of healthcare providers from Lebanese private hospitals and analyzed via structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that workplace attachment has a significant impact on employee–organization relationship, satisfaction with work–life balance and service recovery performance. The findings further reveal that employee–organization relationship and satisfaction with work–life balance significantly influence service recovery performance and fully mediate the relationship between workplace attachment and service recovery performance.

Originality/value

This study is the first to investigate the mediating role of the employee–organization relationship and satisfaction with work–life balance between workplace attachment and service recovery performance. Over and above, this study is the first of its kind that the authors are aware of, being conducted in the healthcare sector, specifically in Lebanon. Based on the findings, the paper discusses the theoretical contributions, managerial implications and suggestions for further studies.
What are food media (messages)? A scoping review to clarify food media, food messages and food content in academic writing
Authors: Cuykx Isabelle , Lochs Caroline , Van Royen Kathleen , Vandebosch Heidi , Van den Bulck Hilde , Pabian Sara , de Backer Charlotte
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This scoping review aims to explore how “food media”, “food messages” and “food content” are referred to in scholarly writing to enhance a shared understanding and comparability.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the PRISMA, ScR-guidelines, four scientific databases were screened on published manuscripts in academic journals, books and doctoral theses mentioning food media, content and messages within the prevalent meaning as in human communication.

Findings

Of the 376 included manuscripts, only a small minority (n = 7) provided a conclusive definition of at least one of the three earlier-mentioned concepts; 40 others elucidated some aspects of food media, messages or content; however, they emphasized different and, sometimes even, contrasting aspects. In addition, the review explores in which disciplines the manuscripts mentioning food media, messages or content occur, which methodologies are used and what target groups and media are most common.

Originality/value

Based on this aggregated information, a definition of food media, messages and content is proposed, aiming to enhance the comparability of diverse academic sources. This contribution invites scholars to critically reflect on the included media and content types when comparing studies on food media, messages or content.
Corporate social responsibility and labor investment efficiency: evidence from China
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Jiangyuan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We expect to provide a complete theoretical framework and large sample evidence on the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the efficiency of labor investment. We also hope to provide micro-evidence based on labor investment behavior for the two-sided impact of corporate CSR behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper measures labor investment efficiency by estimating the difference between actual and expected net hiring of enterprises. CSR is measured on the basis of the CSR score of Chinese listed companies published by Hexun.com. A regression model is constructed to analyze the relationship between CSR and labor investment efficiency. Possible endogeneity problems are controlled by lagging independent variables, propensity score matching method and difference-in-difference method.

Findings

Results show that CSR can improve labor investment efficiency by reducing over-hiring and under-hiring in emerging markets. The existence of the mediating effect of agency cost, information disclosure quality and employment fluctuation confirms that CSR improves labor investment efficiency through two mechanisms of corporate governance and labor market friction. The improvement effect of CSR on labor investment efficiency is more significant in non-state-owned, high CEO shareholding ratio and high-average urban wage enterprises.

Originality/value

In conclusion, our study is an important supplement to the existing research on the factors affecting labor investment efficiency. Our research conclusions will be helpful for enterprises in developing countries or enterprises in labor-intensive industries to improve labor investment inefficiency. The conclusion of the mechanism analysis in this paper provides more complete and reliable microscopic evidence for accurately identifying the specific path of CSR's impact on labor investment efficiency. This paper verifies the positive impact of CSR from the perspective of labor investment efficiency in the context of a developing country, which provides evidence for the theoretical conflicts related to CSR based on the effectiveness of enterprise labor investment decisions.
Cybersecurity for digital libraries: an interview with Emanuele Bellini
Authors: Bellini Emanuele , Tammaro Anna Maria
Published: May 2024

Purpose

N/A

Design/methodology/approach

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Findings

N/A

Research limitations/implications

N/A

Practical implications

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Social implications

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Originality/value

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Contribution to Impact

N/A
SWOT analysis of agricultural colleges for entrepreneurship: Delphi-Fuzzy and fuzzy hierarchical application
Authors: Tohidyan Far Somayeh , Rezaei-Moghaddam Kurosh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to seek the strategic analysis of the entrepreneurship of agricultural colleges (AC).

Design/methodology/approach

In terms of approach, this research was a combination of exploratory and hybrid methods. The present study was conducted in four stages. In the first stage, an open-ended questionnaire was designed to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of entrepreneurship in AC (qualitative method). In the second stage, the Delphi-Fuzzy questionnaire was designed based on the results obtained from the first stage. In the third stage, the criteria of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of entrepreneurship of AC were analyzed based on the pairwise comparison (quantitative method) by the sample using a fuzzy hierarchical analysis process (FHAP). In the fourth stage, presented strategies were ranked based on pairwise comparison using FHAP.

Findings

From the analysis of weaknesses, strengths, opportunities and threats facing AC for entrepreneurship, 12 strategies were presented in 4 groups of aggressive, conservative, competitive and defensive.

Originality/value

The literature review showed that no research has been done so far to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing university entrepreneurship, especially AC. So the present study analyzes the weaknesses, strengths, opportunities and threats and proposes practical strategies for moving toward the formation of entrepreneurship AC. According to the gaps in providing SWOT of the AC, the results of this research can pave the way for policy makers and planners in this field.
Relational contracting in Nordic construction – a comparative longitudinal account of institutional field developments
Authors: Kadefors Anna , Aaltonen Kirsi , Gottlieb Stefan Christoffer , Klakegg Ole Jonny , Lahdenperä Pertti , Olsson Nils O.E. , Rosander Lilly , Thuesen Christian
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Relational contracting is increasingly being applied to complex and uncertain construction projects. However, it has proved hard to achieve stable performance and industry-level learning in this field. This paper employs an institutional perspective to analyze how legitimacy for relational contracting has been produced and challenged in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, including implications for dissemination and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A collaborative case study design is used, where longitudinal accounts of the developments in relational contracting over more than 25 years in four Nordic countries were developed by scholars based in each country. The descriptions are underpinned by literature sources from research, practice and policy.

Findings

The countries share similar problem perceptions that have triggered the de-institutionalization of traditional contracting practices. Models and policies developed elsewhere are important sources of knowledge and legitimacy. Most countries have seen pendulum movements, where dissemination of relational contracting is followed by backlashes when projects fail to meet projected outcomes. Before long, however, relational contracting tends to re-emerge under new labels and in slightly new forms. Such a proliferation of concepts presents further obstacles to learning. Successful institutionalization is found to rely on realistic goals in combination with broad competence development at the organizational and industry levels.

Practical implications

In seeking inspiration from other countries, policymakers should go beyond contract models to also consider strategies to manage industry-level learning.

Originality/value

The paper provides a unique longitudinal cross-country perspective on the field of relational contracting. As such, it contributes to the small stream of literature on long-term institutional change in the construction sector.
Blockchain adoption and operational performance: A secondary data analysis on effects and contingencies
Authors: Culot Giovanna , Podrecca Matteo , Nassimbeni Guido
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study analyzes the performance implications of adopting blockchain to support supply chain business processes. The technology holds as many promises as implementation challenges, so interest in its impact on operational performance has grown steadily over the last few years.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on transaction cost economics and the contingency theory, we built a set of hypotheses. These were tested through a long-term event study and an ordinary least squares regression involving 130 adopters listed in North America.

Findings

Compared with the control sample, adopters displayed significant abnormal performance in terms of labor productivity, operating cycle and profitability, whereas sales appeared unaffected. Firms in regulated settings and closer to the end customer showed more positive effects. Neither industry-level competition nor the early involvement of a project partner emerged as relevant contextual factors.

Originality/value

This research presents the first extensive analysis of operational performance based on objective measures. In contrast to previous studies and theoretical predictions, the results indicate that blockchain adoption is not associated with sales improvement. This can be explained considering that secure data storage and sharing do not guarantee the factual credibility of recorded data, which needs to be proved to customers in alternative ways. Conversely, improvements in other operational performance dimensions confirm that blockchain can support inter-organizational transactions more efficiently. The results are relevant in times when, following hype, there are signs of disengagement with the technology.
Mitigating the bullwhip effect through supply chain ESG transparency: roles of digitalization and signal strength
Authors: Wu Lin , Wang Miao , Kumar Ajay , Choi Tsan-Ming
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The call for supply chain transparency (SCT), especially the environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspect, is getting increasingly louder. Based on the signaling theory, our study investigates the operational benefit of supply chain transparency in terms of ESG (SCT-ESG). To further clarify the signaling process, the moderating roles of digitalization of the firm and signal strength are also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Longitudinal secondary data from multiple databases are matched and analyzed using ordinary least squares (OLS) regressions to validate the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

Results suggest that with SCT-ESG, firms have a weakened disparity between production variance and demand variance, and the supply chain experiences a reduced bullwhip effect. Further, digitalization of the focal company and signal strength reinforce the negative effect of SCT-ESG on the bullwhip effect.

Originality/value

The study integrates the SCT and ESG literature through SCT-ESG, extending benefits of ESG disclosure to the supply chain context. It extends the application of the signaling theory in OSCM by including contextual factors of digitalization and signal strength.
From public to market use: a historical perspective on the changes in health data collection and use in France from 1930 to the present
Authors: Brakni Malik , Gorge Hélène , Ozcaglar-Toulouse Nil
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the progressive marketization of health data collection and use, through a study of its historical development in France, from the 1930s to the present day.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected a set of legal, institutional, political and media data. These came from the INA (National Audiovisual Institute), the French national newspaper websites and the websites legifrance.gouv.fr and vie-publique.fr. The authors then conducted a thematic content analysis.

Findings

The study results highlight the changes in the health-care system related to the increased use of data in France over three major periods. The first period – 1930s to 1980s – is marked by the creation of the French social security system to collect large sets of data to better manager people’s health care. The second period – 1980s to 2000s – is characterized by the adoption and assimilation of tools to manage patient data through several national and European regulations. The last period – 2000s to the present – saw the introduction of measures in favor of the digitalization of health care, and consequently of data, in parallel with the advancement of digital technologies in general. The institutional dynamics in healthcare have evolved with the nature of the actors and their practices, in connection with new perceptions about health data.

Originality/value

This research sheds light on the historical transformation of health data collection and use in France, revealing the involvement of diverse stakeholders, the discourses driving data development and the need for regulation. It exposes the dual nature of health data collection and use, initially sanctioned by the state and public entities but later exploited for private interests.
Young adults’ perceived social isolation and e-impulse buying on social commerce platforms: linking roles of perceived stress and hedonic browsing
Authors: Jabutay Felicito Angeles , Limpachote Tan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the pathways connecting perceived social isolation, perceived stress, hedonic browsing and e-impulse buying in social commerce.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was proposed. Data from 394 young adults was analyzed using structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized relationships in the model.

Findings

Perceived social isolation is associated with elevated levels of perceived stress and engagement in hedonic browsing. Young consumers often turn to hedonic browsing as a coping mechanism for stress, and both stress and hedonic browsing play significant roles in fostering impulsive purchases. Perceived stress fully mediates the influence of perceived social isolation on hedonic browsing. Conversely, hedonic browsing partially mediates the impact of perceived stress on e-impulse buying.

Practical implications

Businesses can use the findings to develop effective marketing strategies that entice customers to purchase on social commerce platforms. Moreover, the findings offer valuable insights for young consumers, providing them with an understanding of the complexities of impulsive buying in social commerce. This knowledge can empower them to make informed decisions and exercise enhanced control over their purchasing habits. Furthermore, the findings could be used as a basis for developing targeted interventions to reduce unnecessary purchases, particularly during challenging times that necessitate social isolation.

Originality/value

This study offers new empirical insights into the ways in which perceived social isolation, perceived stress and hedonic browsing contribute to the heightened prevalence of e-impulse buying in social commerce.
Apex predators can structure ecosystems through trophic cascades: Linking the frugivorous behaviour and seed dispersal patterns of mesocarnivores
Authors: Burgos Tamara , Escribano‐Ávila Gema , Fedriani Jose M. , González‐Varo Juan P. , Illera Juan Carlos , Cancio Inmaculada , Hernández‐Hernández Javier , Virgós Emilio
Published: May 2024

Current global change scenarios demand knowledge on how anthropogenic impacts affect ecosystem functioning through changes in food web structure. Frugivorous mesocarnivores are a key link in trophic cascades because, while their abundance and behaviour are usually controlled by apex predators, they can provide high‐quality seed‐dispersal services to plant communities. Thus, the recent rewilding of large carnivores worldwide can trigger cascading effects for plants.

We investigated the top‐down effects of an apex predator (Iberian lynx Lynx pardinus) on seed‐dispersal services mediated by two mesocarnivore species (red fox Vulpes vulpes and stone marten Martes foina) at the plant community level by comparing areas with and without lynx in a Mediterranean mountain range in Southern Spain.

We collected scats of mesocarnivores (n = 1575) to assess frugivory and seed dispersal of 15 plant species over two consecutive fruiting seasons and two habitat types (open and forest). Specifically, we assessed the effect of lynx presence on (i) seed occurrence and fleshy‐fruit biomass per scat, (ii) number of scats containing seeds and (iii) diversity of dispersed seeds.

The quantity and diversity of dispersed seeds drastically decreased under predation risk for both mesocarnivore's species. Seed dispersal by stone martens was negatively affected by the presence of lynx, with a marked reduction in the number of scats with seeds (93%) and the diversity of dispersed seeds (46%). Foxes dispersed 68% fewer seeds in open habitats when coexisting with lynx, probably leading to differential contributions to seed‐dispersal effectiveness among habitats.

Our study reveals a novel trophic cascade from apex predators to plant communities. The behavioural responses of frugivorous mesocarnivores to predation risk and the reduction in the intensity of their faecal deposition pattern are probably related to their lower abundance when co‐occurring with apex predators. While rewilding apex predators is a successful conservation tool, attention should be paid to cascading effects across food webs, particularly where frugivore megafauna is missing and mesocarnivores provide unique services to plants.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effect of a biomimetic pathogen adsorbing device on inflammatory biomarkers in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Schmieszek Jan , Fuehner Thomas , Renger Isabelle , Welte Tobias , Menne Jan , Fuge Jan , van't Klooster Maria P. , Paul Andrea , Siegert Alina , Borchina Dan‐Nicolae , Falk Christine S. , Kielstein Jan T.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The Seraph 100 Microbind Affinity blood filter eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi and toxins from blood stream.

Methods

This is a prospective multicenter observational biomarker trial in PCR‐positive SARS‐CoV‐2 patients with acute respiratory failure. Biomarkers were sequentially tested at three time points.

Results

Forty‐two patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 detected by PCR with acute respiratory failure were included. When receiving hemoperfusion treatment, 27 (64%) patients were on mechanical ventilation, 41 (98%) patients were treated in the ICU. The 3‐month survival was 52%. After one hemoperfusion treatment cycle, D‐dimer (p = 0.014), hemoglobin (p = 0.003) and LDH (p = 0.001) concentrations were significantly reduced 4 days after treatment. From the multiplex assay IL‐1b, CXCL8/ IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐13, IL‐15, CCL11/Eotaxin, G‐CSF, and CXCL10/IP‐10 were significantly reduced 1 h after treatment, however not 4 days later.

Conclusion

Hemoperfusion with Seraph 100 Microbind Affinity Filter in patients with severe COVID‐19 can transiently reduce several inflammatory biomarkers in the blood.
How do phytophagous insects affect phyllosphere fungi? Tracking fungi from milkweed to monarch caterpillar frass reveals communities dominated by fungal yeast
Authors: Oono Ryoko , Chou Vanessa , Irving Mari
Published: May 2024

Since a significant proportion of plant matter is consumed by herbivores, a necessary adaptation for many phyllosphere microbes could be to survive through the guts of herbivores. While many studies explore the gut microbiome of herbivores by surveying the microbiome in their frass, few studies compare the phyllosphere microbiome to the gut microbiome of herbivores. High‐throughput metabarcode sequencing was used to track the fungal community from milkweed (Asclepias spp.) leaves to monarch caterpillar frass. The most commonly identified fungal taxa that dominated the caterpillar frass after the consumption of leaves were yeasts, mostly belonging to the Basidiomycota phylum. While most fungal communities underwent significant bottlenecks and some yeast taxa increased in relative abundance, a consistent directional change in community structure was not identified from leaf to caterpillar frass. These results suggest that some phyllosphere fungi, especially diverse yeasts, can survive herbivory, but whether herbivory is a key stage of their life cycle remains uncertain. For exploring phyllosphere fungi and the potential coprophilous lifestyles of endophytic and epiphytic fungi, methods that target yeast and Basidiomycota fungi are recommended.
Association of sarcopenia with the long‐term risk of atrial fibrillation: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Tang Yiyang , Liu Zhenghui , Chen Qin , Juaiti Mukamengjiang , Yu Zaixin , Liang Benhui , Zha Lihuang
Published: May 2024

The relationship between sarcopenia and the long‐term risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear. This study recruited a large prospective Caucasian cohort from the UK Biobank. Participants were assessed at baseline with handgrip strength and muscle mass and were categorized into groups of non‐sarcopenia, probable sarcopenia, and confirmed sarcopenia. Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model were used to explore the association between sarcopenia and the incidence of AF. The genetic predisposition of AF was assessed by polygenic risk score. Sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the results. A total of 384,433 participants with a median age of 58 years and 54.3% women were enrolled in this study. There were 24,007 cases of new‐onset AF over a median follow‐up of 12.56 years. The groups of non‐sarcopenia, probable sarcopenia, and confirmed sarcopenia accounted for 22,290 (6.1%), 1665 (9.2%), and 52 (11.9%) cases, respectively. Compared with the non‐sarcopenia group, participants with probable sarcopenia or confirmed sarcopenia had an 8% (95% CI, 1.03–1.14) or 61% (95% CI, 1.23–2.12) higher risk of AF incidence. The findings remained robust in multiple sensitivity analyses, such as subgroup analysis and further adjustment of genetic predisposition. Notably, the association between sarcopenia and a high AF risk was more pronounced in younger participants, women, and those with valvular heart disease. In conclusion, sarcopenia was associated with a high long‐term risk of AF in Caucasians, supporting sarcopenia as a new independent risk factor of AF.
Evaluation of trial reintroductions of two extinct in the wild reptile species on Christmas Island
Authors: Emery J‐P. , Hollanders M. , Valentine L. , Tiernan B. , Retallick K. , Cogger H. , Woinarski J. C. Z. , Mitchell N. J.
Published: May 2024

Conservation reintroductions play a vital role in the recovery of threatened species, and clear goals and objectives are essential for evaluating their effectiveness. In this study, we assessed short‐term success (<18 months) of trial reintroductions of the Extinct in the Wild blue‐tailed skink (Cryptoblepharus egeriae) and Lister's gecko (Lepidodactylus listeri) on Christmas Island. Our evaluation criteria focused on body condition, reproduction, habitat suitability, survival and population growth. In 2018 and 2019, 170 C. egeriae and 160 L. listeri were translocated from a local captive breeding facility to a 2600 m2 outdoor fenced enclosure designed to exclude a predatory snake. Despite body condition declining immediately following release for both species, it had improved by 6 months post‐release. We also detected successful reproduction in both species. Apparent survival was high for C. egeriae but low for L. listeri, and population growth was only evident in C. egeriae. We were unable to determine whether low survival of L. listeri in the release site was due to high post‐release dispersal (beyond the exclosure) or mortality. Both species selected habitats that contained high rock and log cover and avoided areas with low ground cover. Appropriate assessment criteria, as utilized in this study, enable objective and timely evaluations of reintroduction success, thereby facilitating the improvement and refinement of reintroduction protocols. Our study showed that C. egeriae can establish (in the short‐ to medium‐term) in a site from which a principal threat has been excluded and undergo rapid population growth, whereas under current conditions L. listeri cannot. However, we also demonstrate that such medium‐term success may not lead to long‐term success, as the rapid increase in C. egeriae population was reversed between 29 and 31 months after release because the barrier used to exclude an invasive predator, the wolf snake (Lycodon capucinus), was breached.
Reinforcements in the face of ongoing threats: a case study from a critically small carnivore population
Authors: McLennan E. A. , Cheng Y. , Farquharson K. A. , Grueber C. E. , Elmer J. , Alexander L. , Fox S. , Belov K. , Hogg C. J.
Published: May 2024

Reinforcements are a well‐established tool for alleviating small population pressures of inbreeding and genetic diversity loss. Some small populations also suffer from specific threats that pose a discrete selective pressure, like diseases. Uncertainty about reinforcing diseased populations exists, as doing so may increase disease prevalence and disrupt potential adaptive processes. However, without assisted gene flow, isolated populations are at high risk of extinction. Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) are a useful case study to test whether reinforcements can alleviate small‐population pressures where there is an ongoing disease pressure. We investigated demographic, genome‐wide and functional genetic diversity, and disease consequences of reinforcing a small population (<20 animals) that was severely impacted by devil facial tumour disease. Released animals from one source population successfully bred with incumbent individuals, tripling the population size, improving genome‐wide and functional diversity and introducing 26 new putatively functional alleles, with no common alleles lost and no increase in disease prevalence. Results suggest, in the case of Tasmanian devils, reinforcements can alleviate small‐population pressures without increasing disease prevalence. Because no common functional alleles were lost, it is likely that any adaptive processes in response to the disease may still occur in the reinforced population, perhaps even with greater efficiency due to reduced genetic drift (due to larger population size). Our study is presented as a comprehensive worked example of the IUCN's guidelines for monitoring reinforcements, to showcase the value of genetic monitoring in a richly monitored system and provide realistic approaches to test similar questions in other taxa.
Crop type rather than production method determines functional trait composition of insect communities on arable land in boreal agricultural landscapes
Authors: Toivonen Marjaana , Huusela Erja , Hyvönen Terho , Järvinen Ari , Kuussaari Mikko
Published: May 2024

To understand the potential consequences of arable land use changes for insect conservation and ecosystem functioning, it is fundamental to know how insect species with different functional traits respond to crop choice and production method.

This study examined the effects of crop type and production method on functional traits of butterfly, bumblebee and carabid beetle communities using species abundance data from 78 fields in Southern Finland. Surrounding landscape composition was also accounted for. The studied traits were associated with dispersal capacity, habitat or diet specialization and phenology—the key determinants modifying species responses to agricultural disturbances and land use changes.

Butterfly habitat breadth was narrowest and wingspan shortest in long‐term fallows. Fallows also supported the highest share of butterflies overwintering in early development stages and bumblebees with late‐emerging queens. The tongue length of bumblebees was longest in organic oat fields, probably due to flowering weeds with long corolla.

For carabid beetles, the proportion of poor flyers and carnivores was highest in perennial crops and fallows. Carabid beetles overwintering as adults were relatively more abundant in organic than in conventional production, probably due to more intensive tillage in organic fields.

In all insect groups, poor dispersers and/or specialists decreased with increasing arable land cover in the surrounding landscape.

Increasing the area of long‐term fallows and perennial crops and enhancing within‐field plant diversity while maintaining landscape heterogeneity would promote insect species sensitive to agricultural disturbances and land use changes and their associated ecosystem services in boreal farmland.
Second stage land certification and land rental market in northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfay Menasbo Gebru , Araya Girmay Berhe
Published: May 2024

The establishment of secured and easily transferable land use rights is a key component of rural development and poverty reduction pathways in many underdeveloped countries. In this study, we use balanced panel data collected from 407 farm households between 2009/10 and 2014/15 production seasons and apply difference‐in‐difference approach to examine impact of second‐stage land certification on tenure security, participation and extent of participation in the land rental market. Our finding shows that second‐stage land certification has helped to boost tenure security of smallholder farmers. However, the differences in difference results show that the second stage land certification has not yet started to influence farm households’ participation in the land rental market. This could probably be due to the fact that the program is at its early stage of implementation and may warrant further scrutiny with additional time.
The economic value of curbside recycling as a club good and as a public good: A case study of Morgantown and Monongalia County, West Virginia
Authors: Hwang Julian J.
Published: May 2024

In Morgantown, West Virginia, curbside recycling is available to residents who reside within the city limits. However, residents in Monongalia County who reside outside the Morgantown city limits are expected to bring their recyclables to a drop‐off site which discourages people from recycling in general. Moreover, there exists a disparity between residents within and outside the Morgantown city limits in terms of rights to have access to curbside recycling. This study presents the economic value of curbside recycling at the County level. Furthermore, the paper presents a framework and empirical analysis that separate the value of the improved program as a club good and the value of the program as a public good, using a survey data from Morgantown and Monongalia County in collaboration with a local waste and recycling service provider.
Prevalence and trends in physical therapy interventions for erectile dysfunction: A Scopus‐based bibliometric analysis (1989–2022)
Authors: Alzharani Abdulaziz Ali Y. , Alshami Ali M. , Khan Muhammad Ajmal , Siddique Nadeem , Abualait Turki
Published: May 2024

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that affects many males. Physical therapy (PT) is the one potential treatment for ED that may improve blood flow, muscle strength, and other factors that may contribute to the issue. Data on the prevalence and trends of research on PT for ED are lacking.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the literature trends in PT for ED via bibliometric and visualized analysis.

Methods

Data on publications were collected from Scopus covering the period between 1989 and 2022. To refine the data, bibliometric analyses were conducted using Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, an online visualization platform, and BiblioAnalytics. Power BI and Bibliomaster were used to generate figures and tables, while Biblioshiny and VOSviewer were used for visualization.

Results

A total of 494 documents were identified. The year 2019 generated the largest number of publications, with a total of 54. These studies have received 12,917 citations related to PT for ED. The most common document type was the original article with 283 publications. The University of California, USA, was the most productive institution on this topic, with 21 publications and 2,035 citations. The USA led all countries with 114 publications on the topic. The Journal of Sexual Medicine secured the top ranking with an h‐index of 18. The main topics studied were erectile dysfunction, shockwave therapy, and physiotherapy.

Conclusion

The number of publications on PT for ED has demonstrated an upward trend over the last three decades.
Family integrated care: State of art and future perspectives
Authors: Moreno‐Sanz Bárbara , Alferink Milène Tirza , O'Brien Karel , Franck Linda S.
Published: May 2024

Family integrated care (FICare) represents a contemporary approach to health care that involves the active participation of families within the healthcare team. It empowers families to acquire knowledge about the specialised care required for their newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and positions them as primary caregivers. Healthcare professionals in this model act as mentors and facilitators during the hospitalisation period. This innovative model has exhibited notable enhancements in both short‐ and long‐term health outcomes for neonates, alongside improved psychological well‐being for families and heightened satisfaction among healthcare professionals. Initially designed for stable premature infants and their families, FICare has evolved to include critically ill premature and full‐term infants. Findings from recent studies affirm the safety and feasibility of FICare as a NICU‐wide model of care, benefiting all infants and families. The envisioned expansion of FICare focusses on sustainability and extending its implementation, recognising the necessity for tailored adaptations to suit varying diverse cultural and socio‐economic contexts.
Weekly information communication technology availability demand and family experiences in dual‐earner couples: A perspective from the spillover–crossover model
Authors: Zhang Zhenduo , Xiao Huan , Zheng Junwei , Shen Yifei , Sun Xiuxia
Published: May 2024

The prevalence of information communication technology (ICT) enables employees to conveniently communicate with coworkers and clients regardless of time and place. However, recent studies have revealed a negative side of ICT use, especially its capacity to invade the family domain. This study was developed based on the spillover–crossover model (SCM) to test how ICT availability demand shapes employees' family experiences and how this demand crosses over to spouses. A total of 961 cases nested in 101 dual‐earner couples were collected using a 10‐week experience sampling method. Multilevel structural equation modelling revealed that (1) employees' work interference with family (WIF) mediated the indirect impact of employees' ICT availability demand on their family satisfaction and family undermining; (2) employees' WIF mediated the indirect impact of employees' ICT availability demand on their spouses' family satisfaction and family undermining; and (3) employees' ICT control buffered these two indirect relationships by which employees' ICT availability demand impacted their own and their spouses' family satisfaction and family undermining. This research elaborates on the spillover and crossover process through which ICT availability demand shapes family experience, thus contributing to the literature on ICT availability demand and the SCM.
The Burden of the Ego‐Ideal and the Refusal of Development
Authors: Rigg Peter
Published: May 2024

This study provides an account of the way shame, intrusion or other adverse experiences in early childhood can prevent genuine identification with an ego‐ideal, which is felt to be a burden. I argue that the ego‐ideal is necessary to impel the individual towards continual growth and that its absence vitiates the formation of a durable ego. The paper points out the consequences for the subject, which include incapacitation of the ego and the desire to circumvent life.
Motor coordination induces social identity—A novel paradigm for the investigation of the group performance‐identity link
Authors: Krishna Anand , Götz Felix J.
Published: May 2024

Joint action theorizing implies that any coordinated behaviour that induces co‐representation with a partner should increase social identification, especially when the associated actions require a high degree of coordination and are experienced as being performed effectively. The current research provides a first test of this new theoretical prediction for complementary (rather than synchronous) joint actions. In each of two pre‐registered experiments establishing a novel paradigm, participants performed a digital joystick task with a joint performance goal with three different partners. The task varied in coordination requirements across partners. In Experiment 1, results showed that when task segments were discrete between partners, they identified less as a group than when they had to coordinate their behaviour. Surprisingly, although constant coordination increased co‐representation relative to intermittent coordination, it did not correspondingly increase social identification. However, performance correlated positively with identification; as performance was worse when participants had to coordinate, this may explain the results. Experiment 2 showed that performance is causally linked to identification when coordination is necessary. Taken together, our results suggest that experiencing effective coordination leads to greater social identification. In general, paradigms capable of examining the perceptual and motor aspects of collective behaviour may offer a new perspective on social identification in general and the performance‐identification link in particular.