bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum velocity limits for multiple observables: Conservation laws, correlations, and macroscopic systems
Authors: Hamazaki Ryusuke
Published: January 2024

How multiple observables mutually influence their dynamics has been a crucial issue in statistical mechanics. We here introduce a new concept, “quantum velocity limits,” to establish a quantitative and rigorous theory for nonequilibrium quantum dynamics for multiple observables. Quantum velocity limits are universal inequalities for a vector that describes velocities of multiple observables. They elucidate that the speed of an observable of our interest can be tighter bounded when we have knowledge of other observables, such as experimentally accessible ones or conserved quantities, compared with conventional speed limits for a single observable. Moreover, quantum velocity limits are conceptually distinct from the conventional speed limits because we need to introduce the velocity vector and solve an optimization problem for multiple variables to obtain them. We first derive an information-theoretical velocity limit in terms of the generalized correlation matrix of the observables and the quantum Fisher information. The velocity limit has various novel consequences: (i) conservation law in the system, a fundamental ingredient of quantum dynamics, can improve the velocity limits through the correlation between the observables and conserved quantities; (ii) speed of an observable can be bounded by a nontrivial lower bound from the information on another observable, while most of the previous speed limits provide only upper bounds; (iii) there exists a notable nonequilibrium tradeoff relation, stating that speeds of uncorrelated observables, e.g., anticommuting observables, cannot be simultaneously large; (iv) velocity limits for local observables in locally interacting many-body systems are described by the fluctuation of a local Hamiltonian, which is convergent even in the thermodynamic limit, with a nontrivial finite-size correction. Moreover, we discover another distinct velocity limit for multiple observables on the basis of the local conservation law of probability current, which becomes advantageous for macroscopic transitions of multiple quantities. Our newly found velocity limits ubiquitously apply not only to unitary quantum dynamics but to classical and quantum stochastic dynamics, offering a key step towards universal theory of far-from-equilibrium dynamics for multiple observables.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Simulation and performance analysis of quantum error correction with a rotated surface code under a realistic noise model
Authors: Katsuda Mitsuki , Mitarai Kosuke , Fujii Keisuke
Published: January 2024

The demonstration of quantum error correction (QEC) is one of the most important milestones in the realization of fully-fledged quantum computers. Toward this, QEC experiments using the surface codes have recently been actively conducted. However, it has not yet been realized to protect logical quantum information beyond the physical coherence time. In this work, we performed a full simulation of QEC for the rotated surface codes with a code distance 5, which employs 49 qubits and is within reach of the current state-of-the-art quantum computers. In particular, we evaluate the logical error probability in a realistic noise model that incorporates not only stochastic Pauli errors but also coherent errors due to a systematic control error or unintended interactions. While a straightforward simulation of 49 qubits is not tractable within a reasonable computational time, we reduced the number of qubits required to 26 qubits by delaying the syndrome measurement in simulation. This and a fast quantum computer simulator, , implemented on GPU allows us to simulate full QEC with an arbitrary local noise within reasonable simulation time. Based on the numerical results, we also construct and verify an effective model to incorporate the effect of the coherent error into a stochastic noise model. This allows us to understand what the effect coherent error has on the logical error probability on a large scale without full simulation based on the detailed full simulation of a small scale. The present simulation framework and effective model, which can handle arbitrary local noise, will play a vital role in clarifying the physical parameters that future experimental QEC should target.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Spin and charge fluctuation induced pairing in ABCB tetralayer graphene
Authors: Fischer Ammon , Klebl Lennart , Profe Jonas B. , Rothstein Alexander , Waldecker Lutz , Beschoten Bernd , Wehling Tim O. , Kennes Dante M.
Published: January 2024

Motivated by the recent experimental realization of ABCB stacked tetralayer graphene [Wirth , ], we study correlated phenomena in moiré-less graphene tetralayers for realistic interaction profiles using an orbital resolved random phase approximation approach. We demonstrate that magnetic fluctuations originating from local interactions are crucial close to the van Hove singularities on the electron- and hole-doped side promoting layer selective ferrimagnetic states. Spin fluctuations around these magnetic states enhance unconventional spin-triplet, valley-singlet superconductivity with f-wave symmetry due to intervalley scattering. Charge fluctuations arising from long range Coulomb interactions promote doubly degenerate p-wave superconductivity close to the van Hove singularities. At the conduction band edge of ABCB graphene, we find that both spin and charge fluctuations drive f-wave superconductivity. Our analysis suggests a strong competition between superconducting states emerging from long- and short-ranged Coulomb interactions and thus stresses the importance of microscopically derived interaction profiles to make reliable predictions for the origin of superconductivity in graphene-based heterostructures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Deep learning applications in protein crystallography
Authors: Matinyan Senik , Filipcik Pavel , Abrahams Jan Pieter
Published: January 2024

Deep learning techniques can recognize complex patterns in noisy, multidimensional data. In recent years, researchers have started to explore the potential of deep learning in the field of structural biology, including protein crystallography. This field has some significant challenges, in particular producing high-quality and well ordered protein crystals. Additionally, collecting diffraction data with high completeness and quality, and determining and refining protein structures can be problematic. Protein crystallographic data are often high-dimensional, noisy and incomplete. Deep learning algorithms can extract relevant features from these data and learn to recognize patterns, which can improve the success rate of crystallization and the quality of crystal structures. This paper reviews progress in this field.
How job satisfaction affects professionalization behavior of new-generation construction workers: a model based on theory of planned behavior
Authors: Zhao Weishu , Peng Peng , Liu Hao , Wang Shiliu , Liu Wei
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the influence mechanism of new-generation construction workers (NGCWs)’ job satisfaction on the professionalization behavior in China, through theory of planned behavior (TPB), and find the key path to promote the professionalization behavior of China’s construction workers.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model of influence mechanism was established through literature research and theoretical deduction based on TPB and structural equation model. The scale of variables was developed, and an empirical study was employed with a sample of 823 NGCWs in China.

Findings

The results indicate that job satisfaction can positively affect NGCWs' professionalization behavior. Subjective norm, attitude and perceived behavior control play mediating roles in the influence process. Job satisfaction is more likely to act on professionalization behavior through subjective norm and behavioral intention.

Research limitations/implications

Research results sorely suggest a short-term law about the influence mechanism of NGCWs' job satisfaction on professionalization behavior through a questionnaire study from China’s construction industry. Future research ought to continue to use a longitudinal study to examine it over a considerable amount of time. The results also need to be verified using data from young construction workers in other nations.

Practical implications

This study provides a theoretical basis and feasible management reference for government and construction enterprises in China to promote NGCWs' professionalization behavior from the perspective of job satisfaction. Furthermore, the promotion of NGCWs' job satisfaction and professionalization behavior can do good to building industrialization, sustainable development and high-quality transformation of labor force in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the positive influence of job satisfaction on professionalization behavior of NGCWs and finds the most effective affecting path. It fills the research gap about the influence mechanism of job satisfaction on young construction workers' professionalization behavior and enriches the theoretical system of planned behavior of construction workers.
Firm size relationship with persistent innovation and employment growth: evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Parrao Alejandra , Reyes Tomás , Cruz Alfonso , Molina Kristel Schön
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Previous evidence has shown a generally positive relationship between continuously developed innovation, known as innovation persistence and employment growth in firms. This study investigates whether firm size moderates this relationship and how, considering persistent product and process innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors studied the influence of firm size on the relationship between innovation persistence and employment using a 10-year panel database of firms based on national innovation surveys. The authors consider firm size as sales and measure innovation persistence through the hazard rate of innovation spells. To assess the main model, they use a system generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator.

Findings

The authors' main findings indicate that firm size negatively moderates the relationship between persistent innovation and employment growth. These results suggest that the positive effects of product and process persistent innovation on employment growth decrease as firm size increases. The authors also find evidence indicating that the moderator role of firm size is greater when firms innovate more persistently. Robustness tests with different specifications confirm the results.

Originality/value

The authors show that firm size negatively affects the strength of the relationship between innovation persistence and employment growth in product and process innovations. The authors also show that the moderator role of firm size is greater when firms are more persistent in generating product and process innovation. Additionally, using a panel dataset, they provide evidence from a sample of firms in a developing country where no studies on this matter have previously been conducted.
Time truncated attribute control chart for the generalized Rayleigh distributed quality characteristics and beyond
Authors: Saha Mahendra , Pareek Pratibha , Tripathi Harsh , Devi Anju
Published: January 2024

Purpose

First is to develop the time truncated median control chart for the Rayleigh distribution (RD) and generalized RD (GRD), respectively. Second is to evaluate the performance of the proposed attribute control chart which depends on the average run length (ARL) and third is to include real life examples for application purpose of the proposed attribute control chart.

Design/methodology/approach

(1) Select a random sample of size n from each subgroup from the production process and put them on a test for specified time t, where t = ? × µe. Then, count the numbers of failed items in each subgroup up to time t. (2) Step 2: Using np chart, define D = np, the number of failures, which also a random variable follows the Binomial distribution. It is better to use D = np chart rather than p chart because the authors are using number of failure rather than proportion of failure p. When the process is in control, then the parameters of the binomial distribution are n and p0, respectively. (3) Step 3: The process is said to be in control if LCL = D = UCL; otherwise, the process is said to be out of control. Hence, LCL and UCL for the proposed control chart.

Findings

From the findings, it is concluded that the GRD has smaller ARL values than the RD for specified values of parameters, which indicate that GRD performing well for out of control signal as compared to the RD.

Research limitations/implications

This developed control chart is applicable when real life situation coincide with RD and GRD.

Social implications

Researcher can directly use presented study and save consumers from accepting bad lot and also encourage producers to make good quality products so that society can take benefit from their products.

Originality/value

This article dealt with time truncated attribute median control chart for non-normal distributions, namely, the RD and GRD, respectively. The structure of the proposed control chart is developed based on median lifetime of the RD and GRD, respectively.
Adoption intention and willingness to pay for electric vehicles: role of social-psychological attributes, fiscal incentives and socio-demographics
Authors: Kant Rishi , Mehta Babeeta , Jaiswal Deepak , Kumar Audhesh
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this present study is to analyze the role of consumers' social-psychological attributes, fiscal incentives and socio-demographics in the adoption intention and the willingness to pay more for electric vehicles (EVs).

Design/methodology/approach

A cognitive linkage model of “beliefs-intention-willingness” is analyzed using valid responses obtained from Indian consumers. The model is statistically tested at three levels: direct path effect of social-psychological attributes with financial incentives (subjective norm, personal norm, affective attitude, perceived knowledge) on adoption intention and willingness to pay, followed by the mediation of intention and the moderation of socio-demographics.

Findings

The findings reveal that the adoption intention and the willingness to pay are directly driven by all analyzed factors except financial incentives, which is not significantly associated with willingness to pay. Moreover, the adoption intention partially mediated the relation between all socio-psychological measures and willingness to pay, whereas full mediation of incentives is supported. Furthermore, the moderating effect of socio-demographics (gender, education, income) supports the integrated research model.

Research limitations/implications

The generalizability of findings may be warranted due to the limited sample territory and the sample's youth. However, young people, or millennials, are more receptive to new technologies such as electric or carbon-free automobiles. The research advocates marketers and manufacturers to craft policy interventions and strategies to upsurge the EV demands in the backdrop of emerging markets.

Originality/value

This timely study adds to the extant literature on green and clean technology automobile adoption by exemplifying the relationship between socio-psychological beliefs, intention and willingness to pay at three dimensions of contextual factors. The current study endeavors to endorse the “beliefs-intention-willingness” cognitive linkage framework in the context of Indian green transportation.
The multi-stakeholder role in Asian sustainable ecotourism: a systematic review
Authors: Salman Ahmad , Jaafar Mastura , Mohamad Diana , Ebekozien Andrew , Rasul Tareq
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Over recent years, the multi-stakeholder role in sustainable ecotourism within Asia has emerged as a crucial narrative for sustainable ecotourism management across countries on the continent. This trend is perhaps due to the fact that ecotourism is one of the most rapidly growing sectors within the tourism industry. However, to date, no reviews have provided a comprehensive analysis related to the role of multi-stakeholders in the achievement of ecotourism sustainability, particularly in the Asian context. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by examining the current knowledge regarding multi-stakeholder involvement in sustainable ecotourism within Asia.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review procedure was followed. 320 articles were finalized, from which 34 related pieces of research were selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases.

Findings

Three themes emerged from this paper. Recommendations were highlighted to enhance sustainable ecotourism. The study concluded that a more enabling research environment should be provided to improve discourse and encourage policy interventions.

Originality/value

No previous studies have explored the multi-stakeholder's role in achieving Asian sustainable ecotourism, indicating a critical gap to be fulfilled. This paper uniquely contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive review of the roles and challenges of multiple stakeholders in sustainable ecotourism across Asia and proposing innovative policy solutions tailored to the region's unique socio-economic and cultural context. Moreover, it puts forward potential solutions to bolster sustainable ecotourism within Asia, benefiting both stakeholders and the destination.
Exploring Gen-Z consumers’ preference for specialty coffee in the socio-cultural context of Taiwan
Authors: Wang Mei-Jung (Sebrina) , Opoku Emmanuel Kwame , Tham Aaron
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore factors that affect gendered consumption (male and female), willingness to pay (economic attributes) and the socio-cultural context of Gen-Z consumers towards specialty coffee as compared to other types in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

Samoggia and Riedel’s (2018) theoretical framework is adopted to examine the concepts of interest. A mixed method approach comprising interviews and experimental taste tests was used to collect data from Gen-Z specialty coffee consumers in a purposive sampling manner.

Findings

The findings suggested the effect of price elasticity of demand where specialty coffee was perceived as an expensive commodity by young consumers, and hence, not a regularly purchased item. Nevertheless, specialty coffee was linked to health benefits, and a signal for conspicuous consumption – where café experiences facilitated self-promotion on sites like Instagram and Facebook. Finally, the findings alluded to a potential gender effect, with more female young consumers likely to consume specialty coffee as compared to their male counterparts.

Originality/value

This study is located within the context of Taiwan, which has been a tea-dominated consumption landscape for numerous decades. The use of an experimental design also presents a unique angle to elucidate sensory elements surrounding specialty coffee as a research design for Gen-Z research projects. The study points to the relevance of social context in the consumers’ behavioural patterns, which has been largely implicit within consumer behaviour scholarship.
Bilateral thalamic high‐grade astrocytomas in an early‐adolescent child: A case report
Authors: Paul Dion A , Poon Emma , Nambiar Mithun , Anderson Douglas
Published: January 2024

An early‐adolescent girl presented with incoordination, headache, vomiting and dysphonia. MRI brain demonstrated diffuse increased T2 and FLAIR signal in bilateral thalami, consistent with anaplastic astrocytomas. A stereotactic burr‐hole biopsy provided frozen tissues sections demonstrating an IDH‐1 wildtype astrocytoma (anaplastic grade III according to prior WHO classification 2016‐21). Chemoradiotherapy was commenced. Bilateral thalamic high‐grade astrocytomas are very rare in the paediatric population and require timely diagnosis and interdisciplinary management. CT and MR imaging help point towards this diagnosis in the correct clinical context.
ECKOchain: A FAIR blockchain‐based database for long‐term ecological data
Authors: Marstein Kjell‐Erik , Grytnes John‐Arvid , Lewis Robert John
Published: January 2024

Open data practices in ecology are increasingly accepted, yet primary long‐term ecological data remain hard to find. Barriers preventing open long‐term ecological data include social and economic constructs such as a sense of data proprietorship and fear of misuse of complex datasets.

To incentivise open primary ecological data and ensure long‐term preservation, we propose a decentralised data management approach using blockchain technology. The blockchain‐based database is governed by transparent and immutable data management protocols, agreed on by members of the network. Specialised protocols ensure agreement in the network before new data is accepted, and no entity can single‐handedly alter existing data.

We introduce the ECKOchain, a ‘proof of concept’ ecological blockchain‐based database created with the Hyperledger Fabric framework. While metadata and access policies are distributed to all network members, primary data remains with data owners and are served on‐demand to approved parties according to specified usage licences. Details of data requests are preserved indefinitely on the blockchain and serve as auditable data usage agreements.

With the distributed blockchain‐based database we advocate for open science and transparency in long‐term management of ecological data. The ECKOchain is also suitable for other scientific fields where auditability and transparency are considerations to long‐term data management.
Overcoming data gaps using integrated models to estimate migratory species' dynamics during cryptic periods of the annual cycle
Authors: Farr Matthew T. , Zylstra Erin R. , Ries Leslie , Zipkin Elise F.
Published: January 2024

Environmental and anthropogenic factors affect the population dynamics of migratory species throughout their annual cycles. However, identifying the spatiotemporal drivers of migratory species' abundances is difficult because of extensive gaps in monitoring data. The collection of unstructured opportunistic data by volunteer (citizen science) networks provides a solution to address data gaps for locations and time periods during which structured, design‐based data are difficult or impossible to collect.

To estimate population abundance and distribution at broad spatiotemporal extents, we developed an integrated model that incorporates unstructured data during time periods and spatial locations when structured data are unavailable. We validated our approach through simulations and then applied the framework to the eastern North American migratory population of monarch butterflies during their spring breeding period in eastern Texas. Spring climate conditions have been identified as a key driver of monarch population sizes during subsequent summer and winter periods. However, low monarch densities during the spring combined with very few design‐based surveys in the region have limited the ability to isolate effects of spring weather variables on monarchs.

Simulation results confirmed the ability of our integrated model to accurately and precisely estimate abundance indices and the effects of covariates during locations and time periods in which structured sampling are lacking. In our case study, we combined opportunistic monarch observations during the spring migration and breeding period with structured data from the summer Midwestern breeding grounds. Our model revealed a nonstationary relationship between weather conditions and local monarch abundance during the spring, driven by spatially varying vegetation and temperature conditions.

Data for widespread and migratory species are often fragmented across multiple monitoring programs, potentially requiring the use of both structured and unstructured data sources to obtain complete geographic coverage. Our integrated model can estimate population abundance at broad spatiotemporal extents despite structured data gaps during the annual cycle by leveraging opportunistic data.
Understanding the uptake and adaption of targeted implementation interventions for reducing bronchiolitis investigations and therapies
Authors: Robertson Tim , Borland Meredith L. , O'Brien Sharon , Haskell Libby , Babl Franz E. , Dalziel Stuart R. , Tavender Emma
Published: January 2024

Aim

To understand and evaluate the uptake and local adaptations of proven targeted implementation interventions that have effectively reduced unnecessary investigations and therapies in infants with bronchiolitis within emergency departments.

Methods

A multi‐centred, mixed‐methods quality improvement study in four Australian hospitals that provide paediatric emergency and inpatient care from May to December 2021. All hospitals were provided with the same implementation intervention package and training. Real‐time tracking logs of adaptions were completed followed by semi‐structured interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and subsequently coded using FRAME‐IS to further describe the adaptions made.

Results

Tracking logs were summarised and data from 12 interviews were compared from participating sites. The intervention resulted in 116 education sessions and a total of 23 adaptations made to educational materials, both content and contextual. Shortening education presentations, addition of bronchiolitis definitions, formatting of materials and novel interventions were the most common modifications. Audit and feedback were completed across all sites with varying utilisation. Targeted teaching was noted to dictate adaptions prior to and during implementation.

Conclusion

Quantitative and qualitative analysis of clinical ‘real‐world’ adaptations to proven targeted implementation interventions allows invaluable insight for future de‐implementation initiatives and national roll‐out of implementation packages in the ED setting.
Pollination of Chamaepentas nobilis (Rubiaceae) by long‐proboscid hawkmoths in south‐central Africa: Trait mismatching and floral scent chemistry
Authors: Johnson Steven D.
Published: January 2024

The evolution of extremely long (>10 cm) floral tubes in angiosperms is closely linked with adaptation for pollination by long‐proboscid hawkmoths. In most cases, pollen is placed on the head or body of these moths, selecting for floral tubes that match or slightly exceed their proboscis length as this ensures contact with reproductive parts of the flower. However, in the case of Chamaepentas nobilis (Rubiaceae), anthers are inserted inside the c. 12‐cm floral tubes and coat the proboscis of visiting hawkmoths with sticky pollen, meaning that insects with proboscides longer than the floral tube can be effective pollinators, despite trait mismatching. Direct observations and camera trapping on granite outcrops in central Zambia showed that C. nobilis was visited both by Agrius convolvuli (proboscis length c. 13 cm) and Xanthopan morganii (proboscis length c. 17 cm), which are the only moth species in Africa that can access the small amounts of dilute nectar at the base of the floral tube. Pollen on the proboscides of captured hawkmoths was confirmed to originate from C. nobilis. Key floral advertising traits of C. nobilis include early evening anthesis, the highly reflective white limbus, and the evening production of scent dominated by oxygenated aromatic and terpenoid compounds known to elicit antennal responses of A. convolvuli. This study shows that that A. convolvuli and X. morganii share floral resources and jointly pollinate C. nobilis, despite their proboscides differing in length and being mismatched with the corolla tube length.
L‐type amino acid transporter 1 inhibitor JPH203 prevents the growth of cabazitaxel‐resistant prostate cancer by inhibiting cyclin‐dependent kinase activity
Authors: Rii Junryo , Sakamoto Shinichi , Mizokami Atsushi , Xu Minhui , Fujimoto Ayumi , Saito Shinpei , Koike Hidekazu , Tamura Takaaki , Arai Takayuki , Yamada Yasutaka , Goto Yusuke , Sazuka Tomokazu , Imamura Yusuke , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Anzai Naohiko , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: January 2024

L‐type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1, SLC7A5) is an amino acid transporter expressed in various carcinomas, and it is postulated to play an important role in the proliferation of cancer cells through the uptake of essential amino acids. Cabazitaxel is a widely used anticancer drug for treating castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC); however, its effectiveness is lost when cancer cells acquire drug resistance. In this study, we investigated the expression of LAT1 and the effects of a LAT1‐specific inhibitor, JPH203, in cabazitaxel‐resistant prostate cancer cells. LAT1 was more highly expressed in the cabazitaxel‐resistant strains than in the normal strains. Administration of JPH203 inhibited the growth, migration, and invasive ability of cabazitaxel‐resistant strains in vitro. Phosphoproteomics using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry to comprehensively investigate changes in phosphorylation due to JPH203 administration revealed that cell cycle‐related pathways were affected by JPH203, and that JPH203 significantly reduced the kinase activity of cyclin‐dependent kinases 1 and 2. Moreover, JPH203 inhibited the proliferation of cabazitaxel‐resistant cells in vivo. Taken together, the present study results suggest that LAT1 might be a valuable therapeutic target in cabazitaxel‐resistant prostate cancer.
Co‐rumination between friends: Considering the roles of outcome expectations, relationship provisions, and perceptions of problems
Authors: Borowski Sarah K. , Rose Amanda J.
Published: January 2024

Despite its implications for adjustment, little is known about factors that support co‐rumination in friendships. The current multi‐method, longitudinal study addressed this question with 554 adolescents (Mage = 14.50; 52% girls; 62% White; 31% Black; 7% Asian American) from the Midwestern United States in 2007–2010. Adolescents were observed talking about problems with a friend and reported on their outcome expectations for problem disclosures, relationship provisions during problem talk, and problem perceptions after problem talk. Participants reported on outcome expectations again 9 months later. Results indicate that the positive relationship provisions associated with co‐rumination may outweigh negative problem perceptions in predicting adolescents' outcome expectations for problem disclosures over time. Implications for the potentially reinforcing nature of co‐rumination are discussed.
Too little, too late? Sociological reflections on religious responses to climate crisis
Authors: Norgaard Kari Marie
Published: January 2024

Are religious communities better advantaged to mobilize for social change than other institutions and communities and other social spaces? If so, how might they do so? What unique resources can religious communities offer to this effort? Even if there is no set formula to generate climate engagement, are there conditions we can recommend? As one of the few social spaces that might systematically compel collective moral engagement, religious communities and organizations hold the potential to play a key role in societal response. Religious teachings, leaders, and communities have provided individuals the moral conviction to do what is right and the courage to act when one is afraid, and they have offered a microcosm of social networks and social norms that supported social engagement. Not only do religious communities provide a rare space for moral vision and call to action, but in many cases religious communities have in fact mobilized significant social movement responses on other issues at both individual and community levels. In this essay, I apply a theory of socially organized denial to specific questions about climate inertia within religious communities posed in this special issue. I also unpack the question of “too little, too late,” pointing to the benefits of a suspension of doubt and engaging in ethics of responsibility in the unfolding present.
Twenty‐four‐hour physical behaviour profiles across type 2 diabetes mellitus subtypes
Authors: Henson Joseph , Tziannou Aikaterina , Rowlands Alex V. , Edwardson Charlotte L. , Hall Andrew P. , Davies Melanie J. , Yates Thomas
Published: January 2024

Aim

To investigate how 24‐h physical behaviours differ across type 2 diabetes (T2DM) subtypes.

Materials and Methods

We included participants living with T2DM, enrolled as part of an ongoing observational study. Participants wore an accelerometer for 7 days to quantify physical behaviours across 24 h. We used routinely collected clinical data (age at onset of diabetes, glycated haemoglobin level, homeostatic model assessment index of beta‐cell function, homeostatic model assessment index of insulin resistance, body mass index) to replicate four previously identified subtypes (insulin‐deficient diabetes [INS‐D], insulin‐resistant diabetes [INS‐R], obesity‐related diabetes [OB] and age‐related diabetes [AGE]), via k‐means clustering. Differences in physical behaviours across the diabetes subtypes were assessed using generalized linear models, with the AGE cluster as the reference.

Results

A total of 564 participants were included in this analysis (mean age 63.6 ± 8.4 years, 37.6% female, mean age at diagnosis 53.1 ± 10.0 years). The proportions in each cluster were as follows: INS‐D: n = 35, 6.2%; INS‐R: n = 88, 15.6%; OB: n = 166, 29.4%; and AGE: n = 275, 48.8%. Compared to the AGE cluster, the OB cluster had a shorter sleep duration (−0.3 h; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.5, −0.1), lower sleep efficiency (−2%; 95% CI −3, −1), lower total physical activity (−2.9 mg; 95% CI −4.3, −1.6) and less time in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (−6.6 min; 95% CI −11.4, −1.7), alongside greater sleep variability (17.9 min; 95% CI 8.2, 27.7) and longer sedentary time (31.9 min; 95% CI 10.5, 53.2). Movement intensity during the most active continuous 10 and 30 min of the day was also lower in the OB cluster.

Conclusions

In individuals living with T2DM, the OB subtype had the lowest levels of physical activity and least favourable sleep profiles. Such behaviours may be suitable targets for personalized therapeutic lifestyle interventions.
ICSH guidance for internal quality control policy for blood cell counters
Authors: McCafferty Richard , Cembrowski George , de la Salle Barbara , Peng Mingting , Urrechaga Eloisa
Published: January 2024

This paper is a description of the ICSH guidance for internal quality control (IQC) policy for blood cell counters. It follows from and links to a separate ICSH review for such policies and practices. The ICSH has gathered information regarding the current state of practice through review of published guidance from regulatory bodies, a questionnaire to six major cell counter manufacturers and a survey issued to 191 diagnostic laboratories in four countries (China, the Republic of Ireland, Spain, and the United Kingdom) on their IQC practice and approach to the use of commercial IQC materials. This has revealed diversity both in guidance and in practice around the world. There is diversity in guidance from regulatory organizations in regard to IQC methods each recommends, clinical levels to use and frequency to run commercial controls, and finally recommended sources of commercial control materials. The diversity in practice among clinical laboratories spans the areas of IQC methods used, derivation of target values, and action limits used with commercial control materials, and frequency of running commercial controls materials. These findings and their implications for IQC Practice are addressed in this guidance document, which proposes a harmonized approach to address the issues faced by diagnostic laboratories.
miR‐664a‐5p promotes experimental membranous nephropathy progression through HIPK2/Calpain1/GSα‐mediated autophagy inhibition
Authors: Shan Zhiming , Zhuang Zhenchao , Ren Peiyao , Zhao Li , Zheng Danna , Chen Wei , Jin Juan
Published: January 2024

We previously found that miR‐664a‐5p is specifically expressed in urinary exosomes of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) patients. Homeodomain‐interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2), a nuclear serine/threonine kinase, plays an important role in nephropathy. But the function of these factors and their connection in MN are unclear. To investigate the function and mechanism of miR‐664a‐5p in MN, the miR‐664a‐5p expression in HK‐2 cells, exosomes, podocytes and renal tissues were studied, as well as cell growth and apoptosis of these cells, the binding of miR‐664a‐5p to HIPK2 mRNA, the levels of relative proteins and autophagy. The MN progression in MN mice model was also studied. Albumin increased the miR‐664a‐5p content and apoptosis of HK‐2 cells, which was blocked by miR‐664a‐5p antagomir. miR‐664a‐5p bound to the 3′ UTR of HIPK2 mRNA, resulting in the up‐regulation of Calpain1, GSα shear and the inhibition of autophagy level. Autophagy inhibitor CQ blocked the protective effect of miR‐664a‐5p antagomir, HIPK2 overexpression, Calpain inhibitor SJA6017 on albumin‐mediated injury. MiR‐664a‐5p from albumin‐treated HK‐2 cells could be horizontally transported to podocytes through exosomes. Exosomes from albumin‐treated HK‐2 cells promoted progression of MN mice, AAV‐Anti‐miR‐664‐5p (mouse homology miRNA) could improve them. Albumin increases the miR‐664a‐5p level and causes changes of HIPK2/Calpain1/GSα pathway, which leads to autophagy inhibition and apoptosis up‐regulation of renal tubular epithelial cells. miR‐664a‐5p can horizontally enter podocytes through exosomes resulting in podocytes injury. Targeted inhibition of miR‐664a‐5p can reduce the apoptosis of renal tubule cells and podocytes, and may improve the MN progression.
Periodontal disease in patients with WHIM syndrome
Authors: Brenchley Laurie , McDermott David H. , Gardner Pamela J. , Silva Lakmali M. , Gao Ji‐Liang , Cho Elena , Velez Daniel , Moutsopoulos Niki M. , Murphy Philip M. , Fraser David
Published: January 2024

Aim

WHIM (warts, hypogammaglobulinaemia, infections and myelokathexis) syndrome is a rare combined primary immunodeficiency disease caused by gain‐of‐function (GOF) mutations in the chemokine receptor CXCR4 and includes severe neutropenia as a common feature. Neutropenia is a known risk factor for periodontitis; however, a detailed periodontal evaluation of a WHIM syndrome cohort is lacking. This study aimed to establish the evidence base for the periodontal status of patients with WHIM syndrome.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two adult WHIM syndrome patients and 22 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers (HVs) were evaluated through a comprehensive medical and periodontal examination. A mouse model of WHIM syndrome was assessed for susceptibility to naturally progressing or inducible periodontitis.

Results

Fourteen patients with WHIM syndrome (63.6%) and one HV (4.5%) were diagnosed with Stage III/IV periodontitis. No WHIM patient presented with the early onset, dramatic clinical phenotypes typically associated with genetic forms of neutropenia. Age, but not the specific CXCR4 mutation or absolute neutrophil count, was associated with periodontitis severity in the WHIM cohort. Mice with a Cxcr4 GOF mutation did not exhibit increased alveolar bone loss in spontaneous or ligature‐induced periodontitis.

Conclusions

Overall, WHIM syndrome patients presented with an increased severity of periodontitis despite past and ongoing neutrophil mobilization treatments. GOF mutations in CXCR4 may be a risk factor for periodontitis in humans.
Understanding what shapes the priorities of women who are mothering in the context of intimate partner violence: A qualitative study
Authors: Broughton Sharon , Ford‐Gilboe Marilyn , Varcoe Colleen
Published: January 2024

Aim

To explore the priorities of women mothering children in the context of intimate partner violence and to understand what shapes those priorities.

Design

A qualitative study using interpretive description, informed by Feminist Intersectionality adhering to the COREQ guidelines.

Methods

Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Data Sources

Dialogic, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a community sample of 20 adult Canadian women who were mothering dependent children (under 18 years) in the context of recent intimate partner violence from a current or former partner.

Results

Women's main priorities focused on their own and their children's well‐being and creating stability related to housing and finances. Three themes identified: it's all about the kids; my safety…totally disregarded; and I have to take care of him. Multiple external factors (coercive control, structural inequities, assumptions about mothering) shape priorities and the tensions arising from competing priorities women felt compelled to address simultaneously.

Conclusion

Priorities of women mothering in the context of intimate partner violence are complex, shaped not only by what they want but by the limited options available to them given constraints such as income, employment, housing and service responses. Coercive control, structural inequities and assumptions about mothering are important factors influencing mothers' priorities and experiences. Better understanding mothers' priorities can support better tailored policies, services and nursing practice.

Implications for Nursing

Structural inequities that negatively impact health and well‐being by limiting access to resources and the supports needed to enhance health can be better recognized and addressed through a trauma and violence informed care approach.

Impact

This study addressed understanding the priorities of women mothering in the context of intimate partner violence. This research will impact women mothering in the context of intimate partner violence who receive care from nurses and other providers as well as those who provide care.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines (the COREQ checklist).

No Patient or Public Contribution

The women who took part in the interviews for this study did not participate in the study design, analysis or manuscript preparation.
Diagnostic accuracy of clinical signs to detect erosive tooth wear in its early phase
Authors: Rius‐Bonet Ona , Roca‐Obis Paula , Zamora‐Olave Carla , Willaert Eva , Martinez‐Gomis Jordi
Published: January 2024

Background

Agreement exists about most of the clinical features of erosive tooth wear, though no evidence supports their validity in diagnosing the condition.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the accuracy of clinical signs for diagnosing erosive tooth wear in a young adult general population.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of dental students. In the first session, two examiners independently determined the presence of erosive tooth wear based on glazed enamel surfaces, morphological changes on non‐occlusal surfaces, flattening of convex areas, or any type of concavity. In the second session, one examiner recorded the presence of clinical signs according to the Tooth Wear Evaluation System. The diagnostic accuracy of each clinical sign, both alone and combined, was assessed by calculating their sensitivity and specificity for detecting erosive tooth wear and performing multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

Of the 147 participants (78 women and 69 men; median age, 22 years) we included, 76.2% had erosive tooth wear. The single clinical signs with greatest balance between the sensitivity and specificity were ‘convex areas flatten’ (63% and 71%, respectively) and ‘dull surface’ (47% and 89%, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that ‘preservation of the enamel cuff’ (odds ratio, 22) and the combination of ‘smooth silky shining, silky glazed appearance, and dull surface’ (odds ratio, 68) had the best predictive values.

Conclusions

The most accurate clinical signs for detecting early erosive tooth wear were dull surface, flattened convex areas and preservation of the enamel cuff.
Public values and sector service delivery preferences: Public preferences on contracting from simple to complex human services
Authors: Piatak Jaclyn , Jensen Colt
Published: January 2024

Nonprofit and for‐profit providers play an increasing role in public service delivery, but we know little about what shapes public service delivery preferences. Responding to calls to put the “public” back in public values theory, we examine the influence of public values on sector service delivery preferences for government, nonprofit, or for‐profit delivery across six service areas ranging from simple services such as trash collection to complex services such as child welfare. We find equity predicts a preference for government service delivery across areas, while efficiency corresponds to a preference for for‐profit service delivery. Nonprofit sector preferences varied across service areas; equity corresponds to simple services such as street maintenance, whereas effectiveness corresponds to complex human services such as elder care. Public administrators should be cognizant of the public value trade‐offs that underlie sector preferences for public services to design and implement service arrangements in line with the preferences of the public they serve.
The relevance of international restoration principles for ecosystem restoration practice in Rwanda
Authors: Frietsch Marina , Fischer Joern , Kaplin Beth A. , Martín‐López Berta
Published: January 2024

The restoration of degraded ecosystems is considered a key strategy to contribute to ecological integrity and human well‐being. To support restoration practice, 10 “Principles to guide the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030” were conceived through a consultative process and put forward by a group of leading international restoration actors. The extent to which these principles can inform successful restoration activities on the ground, however, remains largely unknown. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, we probed 32 stakeholders who plan, manage, and implement restoration in Rwanda to elicit which factors they perceive as most important for successful restoration based on the UN Decade principles. Using the Q‐methodology, we discovered that participants overall agreed that the UN Decade principles are relevant to inform successful ecosystem restoration in the study area. Further, the Q‐study revealed three distinct groups of stakeholders with different priorities in terms of opinions on restoration aims, stakeholder involvement, and relevant spatial scales. Based on semi‐structured interviews, we identified four considerations for successful restoration that require special attention in future restoration interventions in the study area: (1) restoring historical conditions, (2) collecting baseline data, (3) increasing local communities' sense of ownership, and (4) pursuing a long‐term vision for restoration activities. To address these considerations and thereby harvest the potential of ecosystem restoration to benefit both people and nature in the long run, diverse stakeholders with different priorities for restoration need to come together to discuss possible differences in their perceived priorities, perspectives, and approaches.