bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S2k guideline for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa / acne inversa – Short version
Authors: Zouboulis Christos C. , Bechara Falk G. , Fritz Klaus , Goebeler Matthias , Hetzer Frank H. , Just Elke , Kirsten Natalia , Kokolakis Georgios , Kurzen Hjalmar , Nikolakis Georgios , Pinter Andreas , Podda Maurizio , Rosinski Kerstin , Schneider‐Burrus Sylke , Taube Klaus‐M. , Volz Thomas , Winkler Thomas , Kristandt Anna , Presser Dagmar , Zouboulis Viktor A.
Published: May 2024

The S2k guideline on hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa (HS/AI) aims to provide an accepted decision aid for the selection/implementation of appropriate/sufficient therapy. HS/AI is a chronic recurrent, inflammatory, potentially mutilating skin disease of the terminal hair follicle‐glandular apparatus, with painful, inflammatory lesions in the apocrine gland‐rich regions of the body. Its point prevalence in Germany is 0.3%, it is diagnosed with a delay of 10.0 ± 9.6 years. Abnormal differentiation of the keratinocytes of the hair follicle‐gland apparatus and accompanying inflammation form the central pathogenetic basis. Primary HS/AI lesions are inflammatory nodules, abscesses and draining tunnels. Recurrences in the last 6 months with at least 2 lesions at the predilection sites point to HS/AI with a 97% accuracy. HS/AI patients suffer from a significant reduction in quality of life. For correct treatment decisions, classification and activity assessment should be done with a validated tool, such as the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Scoring System (IHS4). HS/AI is classified into two forms according to the degree of detectable inflammation: active, inflammatory (mild, moderate, and severe according to IHS4) and predominantly inactive, non‐inflammatory (Hurley grade I, II and III) HS/AI. Oral tetracyclines or 5‐day intravenous therapy with clindamycin are equal to the effectiveness of clindamycin/rifampicin. Subcutaneously administered adalimumab, secukinumab and bimekizumab are approved for the therapy of HS/AI. Various surgical procedures are available for the predominantly non‐inflammatory disease form. Drug/surgical combinations are considered a holistic therapy method.
Linking child adjustment difficulties with mother's maladaptive parental behavior: The mediating roles of parental cognitions and parenting stress
Authors: Dănilă Ingrid , Balazsi Robert , Tăut Diana , Băban Adriana , Foran Heather M. , Heinrich Nina , Lachman Jamie M. , Hutchings Judy
Published: May 2024

Child abuse is prevalent worldwide, with most of the burden in developing countries. To reduce and prevent child abuse occurrence, many efforts are directed toward reducing maladaptive parental behaviors (MPBs), a predictor of parents' risk of engaging in child abusive behaviors. MPBs have been associated with child (e.g., behavioral difficulties) and parent characteristics (e.g., parenting stress and parental cognitions), although little research tested for mediational pathways. This study aimed to test the pathways through which child and parent characteristics are linked to MPB. Consistent with the social information processing model of parenting, we hypothesized that child behavioral difficulties would exert an indirect influence on MPB through parenting stress and that parenting stress will exert a direct and indirect effect on MPB through parental cognitions (i.e., expectations, attitudes, and attributions). This study used data from 243 mothers of children aged between 2 and 9 years in Romania. Two‐stage structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypothesized model. Results support the role of child behavior, parenting stress, and parental cognitions in predicting MPB (R
2 = 0.69). Significant indirect effects were found from child behavior to MPB via parenting stress and parental cognitions. Direct effects from parenting stress and parental cognitions to MPB were significant. Findings show that parenting stress and parental cognitions are important mechanisms through which child behavioral difficulties influence maladaptive parental behavior, underscoring the need to focus on these mechanisms when assessing or intervening with families at risk for child abuse.
Effect of wind variability on the recruitment of anchovy Engraulis ringens in the southern Humboldt upwelling ecosystem
Authors: Arteaga Marcos , Vásquez Sebastián I. , Neira Sergio , Cubillos Luis
Published: May 2024

Recruitment is a critical process in the dynamics of fish populations since it represents the abundance of new fish that enter a population each year. In Ekman‐type upwelling ecosystems, wind is a critical factor for small pelagic fish recruitment, as it controls food availability and physical constraints such as turbulence and offshore advection. In this study, we evaluate the effect of wind, chlorophyll‐a, and spawning biomass as independent variables on anchovy recruitment. Using generalized additive models (GAMs), we tested (i) the significance of each factor, (ii) the shape of the relationship between recruitment and predictors variables, (iii) recruitment regimes in the series, and (iv) whether extended windy events are associated with low recruitment levels potentially related to offshore transport of early life stages. The study period spanned from 1990 to 2021, focusing on the austral spring in south‐central Chile (35–40°S) when both upwelling and anchovy spawning are maximized. GAMs revealed a parabolic relationship between the velocity of upwelling‐favorable winds and anchovy recruitment. Maximized recruitment occurred at wind speeds around 6 m s−1 but decreased with winds above 7 m s−1 and below 5 m s−1, and during periods of extended windy events (i.e., those lasting more than 15 days). Chlorophyll‐a showed no significance on anchovy recruitment, suggesting that phytoplankton were not a limiting factor for anchovy early survival. We also found that anchovy recruitment regimes were associated with specific wind intensities. We discussed the pertinence of incorporating a recruitment index based on wind in the fishery management of the anchovy in south‐central Chile.
Acclimation capacity to global warming of amphibians and freshwater fishes: Drivers, patterns, and data limitations
Authors: Ruthsatz Katharina , Dahlke Flemming , Alter Katharina , Wohlrab Sylke , Eterovick Paula C. , Lyra Mariana L. , Gippner Sven , Cooke Steven J. , Peck Myron A.
Published: May 2024

Amphibians and fishes play a central role in shaping the structure and function of freshwater environments. These organisms have a limited capacity to disperse across different habitats and the thermal buffer offered by freshwater systems is small. Understanding determinants and patterns of their physiological sensitivity across life history is, therefore, imperative to predicting the impacts of climate change in freshwater systems. Based on a systematic literature review including 345 experiments with 998 estimates on 96 amphibian (Anura/Caudata) and 93 freshwater fish species (Teleostei), we conducted a quantitative synthesis to explore phylogenetic, ontogenetic, and biogeographic (thermal adaptation) patterns in upper thermal tolerance (CTmax) and thermal acclimation capacity (acclimation response ratio, ARR) as well as the influence of the methodology used to assess these thermal traits using a conditional inference tree analysis. We found globally consistent patterns in CTmax and ARR, with phylogeny (taxa/order), experimental methodology, climatic origin, and life stage as significant determinants of thermal traits. The analysis demonstrated that CTmax does not primarily depend on the climatic origin but on experimental acclimation temperature and duration, and life stage. Higher acclimation temperatures and longer acclimation times led to higher CTmax values, whereby Anuran larvae revealed a higher CTmax than older life stages. The ARR of freshwater fishes was more than twice that of amphibians. Differences in ARR between life stages were not significant. In addition to phylogenetic differences, we found that ARR also depended on acclimation duration, ramping rate, and adaptation to local temperature variability. However, the amount of data on early life stages is too small, methodologically inconsistent, and phylogenetically unbalanced to identify potential life cycle bottlenecks in thermal traits. We, therefore, propose methods to improve the robustness and comparability of CTmax/ARR data across species and life stages, which is crucial for the conservation of freshwater biodiversity under climate change.
Evaluating the role of heart rate variability in monitoring stress and sleep quality among nurses in the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Chia Pei‐Fang , Lee Yi‐Hua , Li Ying‐Chun , Lee De‐Chih , Chang Yuan‐Ping
Published: May 2024

Aim

To assess heart rate variability (HRV) as a measure to assess job stress and sleep quality among nurses in the post‐COVID‐19 period.

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly affected nurses, with heightened job stress and impaired sleep quality impacting their well‐being and effectiveness in patient care. HRV could offer insights for supporting strategies in the pandemic aftermath.

Design

A quantitative cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study involved 403 clinical nurses recruited from a teaching hospital in Taiwan. Data on job stress, work frustration, sleep quality and HRV were collected and analysed.

Results

Among the nurses surveyed during the COVID‐19 pandemic, 72.7% reported poor sleep quality (PSQI = 9.369). Job stress emerged as a strong predictor of work frustration. High stress levels and poor sleep quality were correlated with significantly decreased HRV, indicating a potential physiological impact of stress on the nurses' health and well‐being.

Conclusions

HRV is a valuable and cost‐effective measure for monitoring and managing nurses' well‐being in the post‐COVID‐19 era. Targeted interventions can be implemented to support nurses' overall performance and promote their well‐being by identifying those at high risk of job stress and poor sleep quality.
Social safety net features in East Asia: A comparative analysis using the model family approach
Authors: Wang Julia Shu‐Huah , Abe Aya , Kang Ji Young , Ku Inhoe , Ng Irene Y. H. , Peng Chenhong , Zhao Xi
Published: May 2024

East Asian (EA) social welfare has been described as productivist, where social policies are subordinate to economic development. However, EA comparative studies often focus on a few select social policies and seldom examine welfare programs as a bundle. We contribute to the depiction of divergent features of EA safety nets by exploring welfare content (generosity, coverage, protective vs. productive, and work incentives) and welfare outcomes (poverty reduction and income redistribution) for lower‐income populations in the largest city in mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. We collected model family (MF) data and analyzed the data through descriptive statistics and regression models. We found that Taiwan and Hong Kong, followed by Japan, have more generous programs for reducing poverty, while Korea focuses on productive programs; Singapore offers wide coverage and strong work incentives for low‐income families yet lags behind in generosity; and China appears to be a laggard in welfare provision in the region. Our findings reveal heterogeneity within EA welfare systems, and our synthesis of welfare features using MF data offers a promising, innovative strategy for conducting comparative research in regions with limited comparable data.
Distinctive subgingival microbial signatures in older adults with different levels of cognitive function
Authors: Chen Lili , Li Xiuli , Liu Jinxiu , Hou Zhaoyi , Wei Yongbao , Chen Mingfeng , Wang Bixia , Cao Huizhen , Qiu Rongyan , Zhang Yuping , Ji Xinli , Zhang Ping , Xue Mianxiang , Qiu Linlin , Wang Linlin , Li Hong
Published: May 2024

Aim

To examine association between subgingival microbial signatures and levels of cognitive impairment in older adults.

Materials and Methods

We analysed subgingival plaque samples and 16S ribosomal RNA sequences for microbiota among 165 participants (normal controls [NCs]: 40, subjective cognitive decline [SCD]: 40, mild cognitive impairment [MCI]: 49 and dementia: 36).

Results

The bacterial richness was lower among individuals with worse cognitive function, and subgingival microbial communities differed significantly among the four groups. Declining cognitive function was associated with decreasing relative abundance of genera Capnocytophaga, Saccharibacteria_genera_incertae_sedis, Lautropia and Granulicatella, and increasing abundance of genus Porphyromonas. Moreover, there were differentially abundant genera among the groups. Random forest model based on subgingival microbiota could distinguish between cognitive impairment and NC (AUC = 0.933, 95% confidence interval 0.873–0.992). Significant correlations were observed between oral microbiota and sex, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score and Mini‐Mental State Examination score. Partial correlation analysis showed that Leptotrichia and Burkholderia were closely negatively associated with the MoCA score after adjusting for multiple covariates. Gene function was not significantly different between SCD and NC groups, whereas three homozygous genes were altered in MCI patients and two in dementia patients.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate an association between the composition, function and metabolic pathways of subgingival microbiota and different levels of cognitive function among older individuals. Future cohort studies should assess its diagnostic usefulness for cognitive impairment.
Characterization of tritiated JNJ‐GluN2B‐5 (3‐[3H] 1‐(azetidin‐1‐yl)‐2‐(6‐(4‐fluoro‐3‐methyl‐phenyl)pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyridin‐1‐yl)ethanone), a high affinity GluN2B radioligand with selectivity over sigma receptors
Authors: Schoellerman Jeffrey , Lord Brian , Bhattacharya Anindya , Stenne Brice , Wall Jessica L. , Rech Jason , Letavic Michael , Bonaventure Pascal , Balana Bartosz
Published: May 2024

Here, we describe the characterization of a radioligand selective for GluN2B‐containing NMDA receptors, 3‐[3H] 1‐(azetidin‐1‐yl)‐2‐(6‐(4‐fluoro‐3‐methyl‐phenyl)pyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyridin‐1‐yl)ethanone ([3H]‐JNJ‐ GluN2B‐5). In rat cortical membranes, the compound bound to a single site, and the following kinetic parameters were measured; association rate constant Kon = 0.0066 ± 0.0006 min−1 nM−1, dissociation rate constant Koff = 0.0210 ± 0.0001 min−1 indicating calculated KD = Koff/Kon = 3.3 ± 0.4 nM, (mean ± SEM, n = 3). The equilibrium dissociation constant determined from saturation binding experiments in rat cortex was KD of 2.6 ± 0.3 nM (mean ± SEM, n = 3). In contrast to the widely used GluN2B radioligand [3H]‐Ro 25‐6981, whose affinity Ki for sigma 1 and sigma 2 receptors are 2 and 189 nM, respectively, [3H]‐JNJ‐GluN2B‐5 exhibits no measurable affinity for sigma 1 and sigma 2 receptors (Ki > 10 μM for both) providing distinct selectivity advantages. Anatomical distribution of [3H]‐JNJ‐GluN2B‐5 binding sites in rat, mouse, dog, monkey, and human brain tissue was studied using in vitro autoradiography, which showed high specific binding in the hippocampus and cortex and negligible binding in the cerebellum. Enhanced selectivity for GluN2B‐containing receptors translated to a good signal‐to‐noise ratio in both in vitro radioligand binding and in vitro autoradiography assays. In conclusion, [3H]‐JNJ‐GluN2B‐5 is a high‐affinity GluN2B radioligand with excellent signal‐to‐noise ratio and unprecedented selectivity.

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Mechanisms of synapse‐to‐nucleus calcium signalling in striatal neurons and impairments in Huntington's disease
Authors: Nassrallah Wissam B. , Cheng Judy , Mackay James P. , Hogg Peter W. , Raymond Lynn A.
Published: May 2024

Huntington's disease (HD) is a monogenic disorder with autosomal dominant inheritance. In HD patients, neurons in the striatum and cortex degenerate, leading to motor, psychiatric and cognitive disorders. Dysregulated synaptic function and calcium handling are common in many neurodegenerative diseases, including HD. N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor function is enhanced in HD at extrasynaptic sites, altering the balance of calcium‐dependent neuronal survival versus death signalling pathways. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium handling is also abnormal in HD. The ER, which is continuous with the nuclear envelope, is purportedly involved in nuclear calcium signalling; based on this, we hypothesised that nuclear calcium signalling is altered in HD. We explored this hypothesis with calcium imaging techniques, including simultaneous epifluorescent imaging of cytosolic and nuclear calcium using jRCaMP1b and GCaMP3 sensors, respectively, in striatal spiny projection neurons in cortical–striatal co‐cultures from the YAC128 mouse model of HD. Our data show contributions from a variety of calcium channels to nuclear calcium signalling. NMDA receptors (NMDARs) play an essential role in initiating action potential‐dependent calcium signalling to the nucleus, and ryanodine receptors (RyR) contribute to both cytosolic and nuclear calcium signals. Unlike previous reports in glutamatergic hippocampal and cortical neurons, we found that in GABAergic striatal neurons, L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channels (CaV) contribute to cytosolic, but not nuclear calcium signalling. Calcium imaging also suggests impairments in nuclear calcium signalling in HD striatal neurons, where spontaneous action potential‐dependent calcium transients in the nucleus were smaller in YAC128 striatal neurons compared to those of wild‐type (WT). Our results elucidate mechanisms involved in action potential‐dependent nuclear calcium signalling in GABAergic striatal neurons, and have revealed a clear deficit in this signalling in HD.

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Simultaneous versus sequential fractional CO2 laser and subcision combination for management of post‐acne atrophic scars: A split‐face comparative study
Authors: Tran Bao Quoc , Tran Tu Nguyen Anh , Doan Em Van Loi , Nguyen Thuy Thi Phan , Nguyen Hao Trong
Published: May 2024

Background

A combination of fractional CO2 laser and subcision is usually employed for the treatment of post‐acne atrophic scars. However, the efficacy and safety of both simultaneous and sequential combination therapies should be explored.

Aims

To compare the efficacy and safety of simultaneous and sequential fractional CO2 laser and subcision combination therapies for post‐acne atrophic scars.

Patients and Methods

This single‐blind, split‐face clinical trial included 34 patients with post‐acne atrophic scars at our institution. Each patient underwent three sessions of subcision combined with fractional CO2 laser, with a 1‐month interval between each session. The left side of the face was treated with simultaneous combination therapy, whereas the right side was treated with sequential combination therapy. Treatment efficacy was assessed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks; and 3 and 6 months after the last session.

Results

Simultaneous and sequential treatments demonstrated comparable efficacy. Regarding the adverse events, the side of the face undergoing simultaneous treatment experienced longer swelling duration, higher pain levels during laser treatment, and shorter downtime.

Conclusions

Despite the longer swelling time and higher pain levels during laser treatment in the simultaneous treatment side, the effectiveness and satisfaction level of the CO2 fractional laser and subcision for treatment of the acne scars were comparable between the two combinations, with a shorter downtime for the simultaneous than for the sequential combination therapy.
Nurses' intention and attitude to participate in advance care planning: An extended theory of planned behaviour using structural equation modelling–A cross‐sectional study
Authors:   Apiradee , Lin Chung‐Yin , Wirojratana Virapun , Lin Peng‐Chan , Shu Bih‐Ching
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing nurses' intentions to participate in advance care planning (ACP) by examining the mediating roles of attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control in the relationship between knowledge and intention, using an extended theory of planned behaviour and structural equation modelling.

Methods

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey was conducted between January and April 2023, involving 515 registered nurses, selected through two‐stage sampling. Data were collected using a self‐administered online survey distributed via the internal communication system of hospital. Structural equation Modelling was employed to analyse the relationships among knowledge, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control and intention to participate in ACP.

Results

The results supported two hypotheses regarding the relationships between knowledge, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, and intention (p < 0.05). While the direct effect of knowledge on intention was not significant (β = 0.087, p = 0.292), the total indirect effect through attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control was significant (β = 0.449, p < 0.001), accounting for approximately 83.77% of the total effect on intention. This underscores the critical role of these mediators in influencing nurses' intention to participate in ACP.

Conclusions

This study highlights the significant indirect influence of knowledge on nurses' intentions to participate in ACP through attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. These findings suggest that targeted educational is needed to enhance ACP participation among nurses.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Understanding the role of attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control can enhance nursing practice. Creating supportive environments and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration are crucial. Professional development through training, mentorship and role modelling can empower nurses in ACP. Comprehensive programs that increase knowledge and foster positive attitudes are essential for advancing ACP practice among nurses.

Impact

Educational programs aimed at nurses should include components designed to strengthen knowledge and the identified mediators, equipping nurses with the necessary ACP skills. Organizational support through appropriate policy frameworks can facilitate these educational endeavours and ensure a sustainable impact on practice.

Reporting Method

The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist for cross‐sectional studies.
Mind the gap in kidney care: Translating what we know into what we do
Authors: Luyckx Valerie A. , Tuttle Katherine R. , Abdellatif Dina , Correa‐Rotter Ricardo , Fung Winston W. S. , Haris Agnès , Hsiao Li‐Li , Khalife Makram , Kumaraswami Latha A. , Loud Fiona , Raghavan Vasundhara , Roumeliotis Stefanos , Sierra Marianella , Ulasi Ifeoma , Wang Bill , Lui Siu‐Fai , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Balducci Alessandro ,   for the World Kidney Day Joint Steering Committee
Published: May 2024

Historically, it takes an average of 17 years to move new treatments from clinical evidence to daily practice. Given the highly effective treatments now available to prevent or delay kidney disease onset and progression, this is far too long. The time is now to narrow the gap between what we know and what we do. Clear guidelines exist for the prevention and management of common risk factors for kidney disease, such as hypertension and diabetes, but only a fraction of people with these conditions worldwide are diagnosed, and even fewer are treated to target. Similarly, the vast majority of people living with kidney disease are unaware of their condition, because in the early stages it is often silent. Even among patients who have been diagnosed, many do not receive appropriate treatment for kidney disease. Considering the serious consequences of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, or death, it is imperative that treatments are initiated early and appropriately. Opportunities to diagnose and treat kidney disease early must be maximized beginning at the primary care level. Many systematic barriers exist, ranging from patient to clinician to health systems to societal factors. To preserve and improve kidney health for everyone everywhere, each of these barriers must be acknowledged so that sustainable solutions are developed and implemented without further delay.
Sleep quality during pregnancy and fetal growth: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Fan , Sun Li , Chen Jinhuang , Du Yijuan , Fan Zhanhong , Cao Zhiqiu , Liu Huahua , Lei Xiaoling , Zhang Feng
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between sleep quality during pregnancy and fetal growth. Pregnant women and their fetuses at 16–20 gestational weeks in Nantong Maternal and Child Health Hospital were recruited. Women were classified as having “good sleep quality” (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score ≤ 5) and “poor sleep quality” (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score > 5) according to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. The fetal growth was evaluated by three ultrasonographic examinations, birth weight and birth length. We used general linear model and multiple linear regression models to estimate the associations. A total of 386 pairs of mother and infant were included in the data analysis. After adjusting for gestational weight gain, anxiety and depression, fetuses in the good sleep quality group had greater abdominal circumference (p = 0.039 for 28–31+6 weeks gestation, p = 0.012 for 37–40+6 weeks gestation) and femur length (p = 0.014 for 28–31+6 weeks gestation, p = 0.041for 37–40+6 weeks gestation) at 28–31+6 weeks gestation and 37–40+6 weeks gestation, and increased femur length (p = 0.007) at 28–31+6 weeks gestation. Birth weights (p = 0.018) were positively associated with sleep quality. Poor sleep quality was associated with poor intrauterine physical development, decreased abdominal circumference and femur length, and lower birth weight after adjusting for confounding factors. Attention to the fetal growth of pregnant women with poor sleep quality has the potential to decrease the risk of adverse fetal outcomes.
Fractional gaussian noise: Spectral density and estimation methods
Authors: Shi Shuping , Yu Jun , Zhang Chen
Published: May 2024

The fractional Brownian motion (fBm) process, governed by a fractional parameter , is a continuous‐time Gaussian process with its increment being the fractional Gaussian noise (fGn). This article first provides a computationally feasible expression for the spectral density of fGn. This expression enables us to assess the accuracy of a range of approximation methods, including the truncation method, Paxson's approximation, and the Taylor series expansion at the near‐zero frequency. Next, we conduct an extensive Monte Carlo study comparing the finite sample performance and computational cost of alternative estimation methods for under the fGn specification. These methods include two semi‐parametric methods (based on the Taylor series expansion), two versions of the Whittle method (utilising either the computationally feasible expression or Paxson's approximation of the spectral density), a time‐domain maximum likelihood (ML) method (employing a recursive approach for its likelihood calculation), and a change‐of‐frequency method. Special attention is paid to highly anti‐persistent processes with close to zero, which are of empirical relevance to financial volatility modelling. Considering the trade‐off between statistical and computational efficiency, we recommend using either the Whittle ML method based on Paxson's approximation or the time‐domain ML method. We model the log realized volatility dynamics of 40 financial assets in the US market from 2012 to 2019 with fBm. Although all estimation methods suggest rough volatility, the implied degree of roughness varies substantially with the estimation methods, highlighting the importance of understanding the finite sample performance of various estimation methods.
Reaching out beyond the national border? How far‐right actors in Germany and Norway evaluate transnationalism
Authors: Fangen Katrine , Weisskircher Manès
Published: May 2024

Research has emphasised the importance of far‐right transnationalism, in terms of both ideology and practice. Yet, the literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of how far‐right actors themselves reflect their transnational practices (or lack thereof), such as party‐level exchange, joint protest events, or online communication. Drawing on original interview data from Germany and Norway, our research unveils that while far‐right ‘nationalists’ generally endorse transnational activities, only a minority actively participates. The interviewees perceive transnational practices as opportunities for strategic learning, showcasing of collective strength, and networking. Simultaneously, they express concerns about being associated with extremists and getting entangled in conflict‐ridden areas. Theoretically, we discuss the role of ideology and everyday life as well as the importance of only limited strategic incentives for understanding far‐right transnationalism. In doing so, we draw parallels to experiences made by left‐wing actors. Moreover, we underline the potential of Granovetter's ‘strength of weak ties’ for far‐right diffusion.
Determining adaptability of farmer bred spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes to Canadian organic production using stability analysis
Authors: Carkner M. K. , Entz M. H.
Published: May 2024

Participatory plant breeding (PPB) is a collaborative process between farmers, plant breeders and researchers to create germplasm specifically bred for target environments. We sought to examine the yield performance and adaptability of genotypes from an organic PPB wheat programme under organic management across the Canadian prairies. We evaluated 25 farmer genotypes and 6 commercial cultivars in locations in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, totalling 12 organic environments. The top performers most responsive to higher yield environments were three farmer genotypes (BL34‐SW, BL43C‐TM and BJ13‐GW) and one check cultivar (Vesper). Genotype plus genotype by environment (GGE) biplot analysis indicated that one farmer genotype (BL23‐AS) and one check cultivar (Vesper) demonstrated high yield and greater organic adaptation than other genotypes tested. Two registered cultivars (AAC Brandon and Jake) had low yield and poor adaptation, as did one farmer genotype (PWA10B‐LD). Yield was positively and strongly correlated with height, anthesis and mature biomass and kernel number per unit area. The results provide evidence that early generation farmer selection is an effective breeding strategy for discovering wheat genotypes with high yield and excellent adaptability to organic production systems in Canada.
The identity of what? Pluralism, practical interests, and individuation
Authors: Dranseika Vilius , Nichols Shaun , Shoemaker David
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we present a set of preregistered studies inspired by both Lockean pluralism about individuation and discussions of conjoined twinning in the contemporary personal identity debate. In combination, these studies provide evidence of folk pluralism about individuation of “individuals like us” and also ways in which individuation judgments are integral to practical interests. First, our studies show that individuation judgments depend on a sortal supplied. Study participants tend to see two people or persons but only one organism in case of dicephalic twins, and they do not find these two verdicts inconsistent. Second, study participants tend to be pluralist in a sense that they find it acceptable to consider dicephalic twins to be—at the same time—two persons sharing one body and one two‐headed person. Third, while both perspectives are available, when reasons for counting are made salient, study participants tend to resolve pluralism in line with practical interests relevant in the context.
Relationship between nutrition indicators and pneumonia risk among stable schizophrenia patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Cai Duanfang , Wang Yilin , Chen Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Background

It is reported that reduced physical activity and malnutrition may trigger pneumonia, and the utilisation of the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) upon admission to long‐term nursing care can enable the implementation of accurate and timely rehabilitation and nutritional support, which may, in turn, minimise pneumonia incidence. However, to date, there is no reported association between GNRI and pneumonia among stable schizophrenic patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective investigation. We enrolled 434 hospitalised subjects aged ≥50 years, who were diagnosed with stable schizophrenia between January 2017 and June 2022. Baseline nutritional status information during the stable stage of schizophrenia was evaluated using body mass index, serum albumin, and GNRI. In addition, pneumonia‐based information, including diagnosis and treatment, was retrospectively obtained within 1 year. To examine the potential association between nutrition indicators and pneumonia risk among stable schizophrenia patients, we employed a logistic regression analysis.

Results

The pneumonia incidence among all stable schizophrenia patients was 10.14%, and there were no statistically significant difference between sexes (male vs. female, 10.63% vs. 9.44%, P = 0.687). Based on the univariate analysis of nutrition indicators and pneumonia, female patients exhibited a strong correlation between serum albumin and pneumonia (P = 0.022). Furthermore, we adjusted for potential influencing factors of pneumonia infection, and confirmed that only serum albumin was linked to pneumonia risk in female stable schizophrenia patients (odds ratio = 0.854, 95% CI: 0.749–0.975, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Based on our analysis, serum albumin was strongly correlated with pneumonia risk in female stable schizophrenia patients.
Interactions between fractional solitons in bimodal fiber cavities
Authors: Zangmo Tandin , Mayteevarunyoo Thawatchai , Malomed Boris A.
Published: May 2024

We introduce a system of fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equations (FNLSEs) which model the copropagation of optical waves carried by different wavelengths or mutually orthogonal circular polarizations in fiber‐laser cavities with the effective fractional group‐velocity dispersion (FGVD), which were recently made available to the experiment. In the FNLSE system, the FGVD terms are represented by the Riesz derivative, with the respective Lévy index (LI). The FNLSEs, which include the self‐phase‐modulation (SPM) nonlinearity, are coupled by the cross‐phase‐modulation (XPM) terms, and separated by a group‐velocity (GV) mismatch (rapidity). By means of systematic simulations, we analyze collisions and bound states of solitons in the XPM‐coupled system, varying the LI and GV mismatch. Outcomes of collisions between the solitons include rebound, conversion of the colliding single‐component solitons into a pair of two‐component ones, merger of the solitons into a breather, their mutual passage leading to excitation of intrinsic vibrations, and the elastic interaction. Families of stable two‐component soliton bound states are constructed too, featuring a rapidity which is intermediate between those of the two components.
Accurate calculation method of terrain viewshed for wireless signal as line of sight
Authors: Wang Yiwen , Dou Wanfeng
Published: May 2024

Viewshed analysis is an important research content of digital terrain analysis. The terrain viewshed refers to the range that can be seen at the current position, which varies with the nature of the observer. When the observer is a wireless signal tower, it is the communication viewshed, which refers to the area consisted of grid cells where the receiving antennas can receive the signals from a transmitting antenna set up on a grid cell of terrain. The core of base station location problem includes two aspects: combinatorial optimization and the calculation of the coverage rate of signal. The calculation of communication viewshed is an important research content for determining signal coverage range. In this article, we propose an accurate communication viewshed computation algorithm for wireless signal (CVCWS) using the projection curve of 3D Fresnel zone analysis based on DEM. The CVCWS method can calculate the signal reception quality at different locations more precisely. Besides, a signal attenuation model is proposed to compute the theoretical attenuation value according to the signal receiving quality index. The proposed algorithm is compared with the existing DEM‐based communication viewshed algorithms, and the theoretical attenuation values are compared with the measured values. The experimental results show that the theoretical values gained by the CVCWS algorithm are close to the measured values, indicating high accuracy of the CVCWS algorithm. The proposed method can provide theoretical support for communication tower location planning and other related applications.
Beyond Recovery? Downturns, Implications and Prospects of COVID-19 Pandemic to Real Estate Development in Zimbabwe
Authors: Zhanda Kelvin
Published: May 2024

Real estate development plays a pivotal role in the growth of macro economies worldwide. Until recently there has been little, if any, concern over the impact of public health emergencies to real estate development process let alone recoupling mechanisms for Zimbabwe’s real estate developers. Many changes have occurred to real estate development amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and economic instability that has impacted the already struggling real estate development sector in Zimbabwe. Thus, this paper aims to examine the implications of COVID-19 pandemic to real estate development and its prospects for recovery in Zimbabwe. The paper focuses on the implications of COVID-19 to the four forms of real estate development namely: new developments, repurposing, refurbishment, and redevelopment. The study employed a desktop study and survey of selected real estate developers as well as content analysis methodology. Evidence in Zimbabwe shows that many new developments have almost stopped and some will hold back for an indefinite time. The real estate development industry is largely based on revenue accrued from the real estate projects’ proceeds and funding from banks. Thus, the study seeks to answer questions of the nature: will the financial institutions continue to offer financial help to real estate developers? What will be the legal wrangles of missing the projects' delivery dates by developers? While the key players in the real estate development process have seized the pandemic as an opportunity to demolish and refurbish the buildings, some real estate developers are halting projects citing revenue challenges. The paper indicates how the current COVID-19 pandemic may affect the real estate developers’ future “appetite” and determine the future of real estate development. The paper, therefore, builds the basis for future real estate development policies and indicates the need for reforms to shield the sector from pandemic shocks.
Impacts and Risk Management of COVID-19 Pandemic on Real Estate Supply Chain
Authors: Uchehara Ikechukwu , Hamma-adama Mansur , Obiri Kwadwo Ayeh , Jafarifar Naeimeh , Moore David
Published: May 2024

Industry experts internationally have raised concerns regarding the significant risk posed to the real estate sector by the unprecedented global pandemic of Covid-19. The influence of Covid-19 has been swift, and with emerging wide-ranging consequences. The stay-at-home-policy has stagnated real estate and other economic activities. Many lenders, buyers and estate agents are evaluating the threats and opportunities in their operations. Developers face stoppages resulting from the impact and inherent risks of the stay-at-home policies on the built environment, and real estate chain. Return on investments initiated, but not completed due to the pandemic negative effect has resulted in a financial crisis. Similarly, there are fears that income streams, such as rental incomes, and mortgage payments, which are already being affected negatively in the short-term may worsen in the long-term due to economic recession. The purpose of the study, therefore, is to identify any COVID-19 pandemic impact, its mitigation for the tenant, and across the supply chain within the real estate sector in the United Kingdom. The study is based on a qualitative descriptive research design. The required data has been collected mainly through an extensive review of the available secondary sources. Occupiers’ Sentiment Index and past recessionary financial performance were used to provide a wide-ranging insight into crisis effects on the macroeconomy of the property market. Consequently, two procedural approaches are utilised; firstly, the economic recovery scenario V, U, W and L shapes, are analysed to determine the potential recovery pattern of supply chains across the real estate sector. Secondly, the use of a legal context to mitigate the pandemic risk across the sector. The findings reveal an emerging dynamic trend, rooted in contract clause revamping, as suggestive of a mitigation approach by the industry. The significance of the study provides a robust platform on which a long-term response to any future unprecedented pandemic within the real estate-built environment can be delivered.
Factors Influencing E-learning Adoption when Teaching Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Disciplines at a Science and Technology University in Ethiopia
Authors: Adeba Melkamu , Gatewood Kelly
Published: May 2024

eLearning technology in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) instruction may positively impact the quality of education in preparing a competent 21st-century workforce in developing countries. Adopting eLearning technology in higher education institutions' STEM departments in developing countries is critical in allowing its graduates to compete in the global workforce. Information technology integration into STEM disciplines in higher education in developing countries may have two purposes: course access and technology skill development. Training this labor force with skills to use eLearning integrated into STEM disciplines increases their technical competencies. However, using eLearning to teach STEM disciplines in higher education institutes in developing countries still needs improvement. Understanding the factors influencing eLearning adoption and use is critical to understanding this phenomenon. This case study explored factors influencing eLearning adoption when teaching STEM disciplines. The study occurred at a mid-sized science and technology university in Ethiopia. A qualitative research approach examined how faculty members describe factors influencing eLearning technology adoption and use in the STEM departments on campus: the data collection method combined semi-structured individual interviews, focused group interviews, and document reviews. Seven faculty members and department heads participated in the personal interviews, and three participated in focus group interviews. An inductive method was used to analyze data collected from participants. Five themes emerged from qualitative data analysis: nature of the course, technology, institution, user's attitude, and environment. Challenges related to technology infrastructure, lack of training and technical support, the course nature, and lack of eCurriculum design were significant factors in adopting and using eLearning. The concerted effort of stakeholders, specifically faculty members, institutional leaders, and technical support teams, to adopt and use eLearning in STEM instruction positively impacts the quality of education in preparing a competent 21st-century workforce in developing countries.
Self-Presentation of Elderly Internet Celebrity on Douyin in China
Authors: Yan Zhang , Alsagoff Syed Agil , Yasin Megat Al Imran
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of mass media and an increase the aging population in China,more elderly people are actively using the internet. Douyin, owned by ByteDance, is one of the fastest growing apps in China. Many elderly users use this app for entertainment and information sharing. Currently, there is an emergency of several elderly internet celebrities.The study investigated how elderly internet celebrities in China used short videos to present themselves and shape their image on Douyin. The study employs literature analysis and content analysis to analyzes the content of short videos of 10 elderly internet celebrities on Douyin. The study summarized the self-presentation characteristics of elderly internet celebrities,dismissed stereotypes regarding elderly people and recommended new ideas and paths for the governance of China's aging society.
A geometric p-adic Simpson correspondence in rank one
Authors: Heuer Ben
Published: May 2024

For any smooth proper rigid space $X$ over a complete algebraically closed extension $K$ of $\mathbb {Q}_p$ we give a geometrisation of the $p$-adic Simpson correspondence of rank one in terms of analytic moduli spaces: the $p$-adic character variety is canonically an étale twist of the moduli space of topologically torsion Higgs line bundles over the Hitchin base. This also eliminates the choice of an exponential. The key idea is to relate both sides to moduli spaces of $v$-line bundles. As an application, we study a major open question in $p$-adic non-abelian Hodge theory raised by Faltings, namely which Higgs bundles correspond to continuous representations under the $p$-adic Simpson correspondence. We answer this question in rank one by describing the essential image of the continuous characters $\pi ^{{\mathrm {\acute {e}t}}}_1(X)\to K^\times$ in terms of moduli spaces: for projective $X$ over $K=\mathbb {C}_p$, it is given by Higgs line bundles with vanishing Chern classes like in complex geometry. However, in general, the correct condition is the strictly stronger assumption that the underlying line bundle is a topologically torsion element in the topological group $\operatorname {Pic}(X)$.
Toward Controllable Generative Design: A Conceptual Design Generation Approach Leveraging the Function–Behavior–Structure Ontology and Large Language Models
Authors: Chen Liuqing , Zuo Haoyu , Cai Zebin , Yin Yuan , Zhang Yuan , Sun Lingyun , Childs Peter , Wang Boheng
Published: May 2024

Recent research in the field of design engineering is primarily focusing on using AI technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs) to assist early-stage design. The engineer or designer can use LLMs to explore, validate, and compare thousands of generated conceptual stimuli and make final choices. This was seen as a significant stride in advancing the status of the generative approach in computer-aided design. However, it is often difficult to instruct LLMs to obtain novel conceptual solutions and requirement-compliant in real design tasks, due to the lack of transparency and insufficient controllability of LLMs. This study presents an approach to leverage LLMs to infer Function–Behavior–Structure (FBS) ontology for high-quality design concepts. Prompting design based on the FBS model decomposes the design task into three sub-tasks including functional, behavioral, and structural reasoning. In each sub-task, prompting templates and specification signifiers are specified to guide the LLMs to generate concepts. User can determine the selected concepts by judging and evaluating the generated function–structure pairs. A comparative experiment has been conducted to evaluate the concept generation approach. According to the concept evaluation results, our approach achieves the highest scores in concept evaluation, and the generated concepts are more novel, useful, functional, and low cost compared to the baseline.