bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using drawing to study student research experiences
Authors: Lane W. Brian , Zavala Daniela , Khazal Gabriella , Laird Naomi
Published: September 2024

The communities of practice (COP) framework describes learning as a process of navigating one’s position of membership within a community of professionals pursuing a set of common goals using established practices. As students navigate their membership within a community like a physics research group, they develop a mental model of the community of practice and use this model to guide their future career decisions. Drawing has been shown to illustrate students’ perspectives and experiences, offering important benefits as a source of qualitative information. In this proof-of-concept paper, we explore how a drawing survey can be used to identify elements of a student’s COP model in the context of a research group. We describe the development and validation of this drawing survey using the response process evaluation method. This method establishes the degree to which students interpret survey prompts as intended. We then review a sample of seven student drawings made in response to the survey to investigate the degree to which the survey generates sufficient data to examine a student’s COP model. Finally, we demonstrate a use case examining N=23 drawings that allow us to identify patterns and possible differences in responses from different student groups (physics majors and biology majors). We then reflect on this use of a drawing survey by highlighting important aspects of the process and discussing limitations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Modeling when and how physics Ph.D. students search for a research group: The role of interests and prior research experiences in timely group integration
Authors: Verostek Mike , Miller Casey W. , Zwickl Benjamin M.
Published: September 2024

Studying the factors that influence the quality of physics Ph.D. students’ doctoral experiences, especially those that motivate them to stay or leave their programs, is critical for providing them with more holistic and equitable support. Prior literature on doctoral attrition has found that students with clear research interests who establish an advisor-advisee relationship early in their graduate careers are most likely to persist. However, these trends have not been investigated in the context of physics, and the underlying reasons for why these characteristics are associated with leaving remain unstudied. Using semistructured interviews with 40 first and second year physics Ph.D. students, we construct a model describing the characteristic pathways that physics Ph.D. students take while evaluating the interest congruence of prospective research groups. We show how access to undergraduate research and other formative experiences helped some students narrow their interests and look for research groups before arriving at graduate school. In turn, these students reported fewer difficulties finding a group than students whose search for an advisor took place during the first year of their Ph.D. Finally, we identify two characteristic types of students at a higher risk of leaving their programs: students who enter graduate school with broad interests and struggle to find a group and students who join a research group early based on research interest alone and subsequently encounter issues with a negative mentoring relationship. This work serves as a major step toward creating a comprehensive model of how Ph.D. students find a research group and opens the door for future work to investigate how factors such as group culture and working environment impact the search process.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Finite-temperature Rydberg arrays: Quantum phases and entanglement characterization
Authors: Reinić Nora , Jaschke Daniel , Wanisch Darvin , Silvi Pietro , Montangero Simone
Published: September 2024

As one of the most prominent platforms for analog quantum simulators, Rydberg atom arrays are a promising tool for exploring quantum phases and transitions. While the ground-state properties of one-dimensional Rydberg systems are already thoroughly examined, we extend the analysis towards the finite-temperature scenario. For this purpose, we develop a tensor network-based numerical toolbox for constructing the quantum many-body states at thermal equilibrium, which we exploit to probe classical correlations as well as entanglement monotones. We clearly observe ordered phases continuously shrinking because of thermal fluctuations at finite system sizes. Moreover, by examining the entanglement of formation and entanglement negativity of a half-system bipartition, we numerically confirm that a conformal scaling law of entanglement extends from the zero-temperature critical points into the low-temperature regime.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Semiconducting Heusler Compounds beyond the Slater-Pauling Rule
Authors: Parzer Michael , Garmroudi Fabian , Riss Alexander , Reticcioli Michele , Podloucky Raimund , Stöger-Pollach Michael , Constable Evan , Pustogow Andrej , Mori Takao , Bauer Ernst
Published: September 2024

Heusler compounds with semiconducting properties represent an important class of functional materials. Usually, research on these systems is guided by simple electron-counting rules, such as the Slater-Pauling principle. Here, we report on the discovery of Heusler-type semiconductors, significantly deviating from the Slater-Pauling rule. We theoretically predict the occurrence of nonmagnetic semiconducting ground states in various highly off-stoichiometric full-Heusler alloys, where self-substitution leads to a band-gap opening. This unexpected trend is confirmed experimentally by thermoelectric transport measurements on a multitude of Fe2−2xV1−xAl1+3x samples with up to 20% substitution of Fe and V atoms. The band-gap opening leads to an exceptionally large Seebeck coefficient in p-type Fe2VAl thermoelectrics, previously limited by bipolar conduction and low-density-of-states effective mass. Consequently, our work presents a paradigm to tune the band gap of Heusler compounds by self-substitution and introduces a hitherto unexplored class of semiconductors with exceptional thermoelectric properties, offering significant potential for advancements in energy science and sustainable-energy technologies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Free tools for crystallographic symmetry handling and visualization
Authors: de la Flor Gemma , Aroyo Mois I. , Gimondi Ilaria , Ward Suzanna C. , Momma Koichi , Hanson Robert M. , Suescun Leopoldo
Published: September 2024

Online courses and innovative teaching methods have triggered a trend in education, where the integration of multimedia, online resources and interactive tools is reshaping the view of both virtual and traditional classrooms. The use of interactive tools extends beyond the boundaries of the physical classroom, offering students the flexibility to access materials at their own speed and convenience and enhancing their learning experience. In the field of crystallography, there are a wide variety of free online resources such as web pages, interactive applets, databases and programs that can be implemented in fundamental crystallography courses for different academic levels and curricula. This paper discusses a variety of resources that can be helpful for crystallographic symmetry handling and visualization, discussing four specific resources in detail: the Bilbao Crystallographic Server, the Cambridge Structural Database, VESTA and Jmol. The utility of these resources is explained and shown by several illustrative examples.
The AUREX cell: a versatile operando electrochemical cell for studying catalytic materials using X-ray diffraction, total scattering and X-ray absorption spectroscopy under working conditions
Authors: Frank Sara , Ceccato Marcel , Jeppesen Henrik S. , Marks Melissa J. , Nielsen Mads L. N. , Lu Ronghui , Gammelgaard Jens Jakob , Quinson Jonathan , Sharma Ruchi , Jensen Julie S. , Hjelme Sara , Friberg Klysner Cecilie , Billinge Simon J. L. , Just Justus , Gjørup Frederik H. , Catalano Jacopo , Lock Nina
Published: September 2024

Understanding the structure–property relationship in electrocatalysts under working conditions is crucial for the rational design of novel and improved catalytic materials. This paper presents the Aarhus University reactor for electrochemical studies using X-rays (AUREX) operando electrocatalytic flow cell, designed as an easy-to-use versatile setup with a minimal background contribution and a uniform flow field to limit concentration polarization and handle gas formation. The cell has been employed to measure operando total scattering, diffraction and absorption spectroscopy as well as simultaneous combinations thereof on a commercial silver electrocatalyst for proof of concept. This combination of operando techniques allows for monitoring of the short-, medium- and long-range structure under working conditions, including an applied potential, liquid electrolyte and local reaction environment. The structural transformations of the Ag electrocatalyst are monitored with non-negative matrix factorization, linear combination analysis, the Pearson correlation coefficient matrix, and refinements in both real and reciprocal space. Upon application of an oxidative potential in an Ar-saturated aqueous 0.1 M KHCO3/K2CO3 electrolyte, the face-centered cubic (f.c.c.) Ag gradually transforms first to a trigonal Ag2CO3 phase, followed by the formation of a monoclinic Ag2CO3 phase. A reducing potential immediately reverts the structure to the Ag (f.c.c.) phase. Following the electrochemical-reaction-induced phase transitions is of fundamental interest and necessary for understanding and improving the stability of electrocatalysts, and the operando cell proves a versatile setup for probing this. In addition, it is demonstrated that, when studying electrochemical reactions, a high energy or short exposure time is needed to circumvent beam-induced effects.
Enhancing precision in table tennis officiating through an optimized autonomous sensor node system
Authors: Sun Chenyang , Khishe Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to address concerns regarding the subjectivity and imprecision of decision-making in table tennis refereeing by developing and enhancing a sensor node system. This system is designed to accurately detect the points on the table tennis table where balls collide. The study introduces the twined-reinforcement chimp optimization (TRCO) framework, which combines two novel approaches to optimize the distribution of sensor nodes. The main goal is to reduce the number of sensor units required while maintaining high accuracy in determining the locations of ball collisions, with error margins significantly below the critical 3.5 mm cutoff. Through complex optimization procedures, the study aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of decision-making in table tennis refereeing by leveraging sensor technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a design methodology focused on developing a sensor array system to enhance decision-making in table tennis refereeing. It introduces the twined-reinforcement chimp optimization (TRCO) framework, combining dual adaptive weighting strategies and a stochastic approach for optimization. By meticulously engineering the sensor array and utilizing complex optimization procedures, the study aims to improve the accuracy of detecting ball collisions on the table tennis table. The methodology aims to reduce the number of sensor units required while maintaining high precision, ultimately enhancing the reliability of decision-making in the sport.

Findings

The optimization research study yielded promising outcomes, showcasing a substantial reduction in the number of sensor units required from the initial count of 60 to a more practical 49. The sensor array system demonstrated excellent accuracy in identifying the locations of ball collisions, with error margins significantly below the critical 3.5 mm cutoff. Through the implementation of the twined-reinforcement chimp optimization (TRCO) framework, which integrates dual adaptive weighting strategies and a stochastic approach, the study achieved its goal of enhancing the efficiency and reliability of decision-making in table tennis refereeing.

Originality/value

This study introduces novel contributions to the field of table tennis refereeing by pioneering the development and optimization of a sensor array system. The innovative twined-reinforcement chimp optimization (TRCO) framework, integrating dual adaptive weighting strategies and a stochastic approach, sets a new standard for sensor node distribution in sports technology. By substantially reducing the number of sensor units required while maintaining high accuracy in detecting ball collisions, this research offers practical solutions to address the inherent subjectivity and imprecision in decision-making processes. The study’s originality lies in its meticulous design methodology and complex optimization procedures, offering significant value to the field of sports technology and officiating.
Big data analytics in the AEC industry: scientometric review and synthesis of research activities
Authors: Ohene Eric , Nani Gabriel , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Darko Amos , Addai Lydia Agyapomaa , Horvey Edem
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Unlocking the potential of Big Data Analytics (BDA) has proven to be a transformative factor for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. This has prompted researchers to focus attention on BDA in the AEC industry (BDA-in-AECI) in recent years, leading to a proliferation of relevant research. However, an in-depth exploration of the literature on BDA-in-AECI remains scarce. As a result, this study seeks to systematically explore the state-of-the-art review on BDA-in-AECI and identify research trends and gaps in knowledge to guide future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This state-of-the-art review was conducted using a mixed-method systematic review. Relevant publications were retrieved from Scopus and then subjected to inclusion and exclusion criteria. A quantitative bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer software and Gephi to reveal the status quo of research in the domain. A further qualitative analysis was performed on carefully screened articles. Based on this mixed-method systematic review, knowledge gaps were identified and future research agendas of BDA-in-AECI were proposed.

Findings

The results show that BDA has been adopted to support AEC decision-making, safety and risk assessment, structural health monitoring, damage detection, waste management, project management and facilities management. BDA also plays a major role in achieving construction 4.0 and Industry 4.0. The study further revealed that data mining, cloud computing, predictive analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence methods, such as deep learning, natural language processing and computer vision, are the key methods used for BDA-in-AECI. Moreover, several data acquisition platforms and technologies were identified, including building information modeling, Internet of Things (IoT), social networking and blockchain. Further studies are needed to examine the synergies between BDA and AI, BDA and Digital twin and BDA and blockchain in the AEC industry.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the BDA-in-AECI body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive scope of understanding and revealing areas for future research directions beneficial to the stakeholders in the AEC industry.
Themes and readability of integrated reports of banks from a circular economy perspective
Authors: Keski̇n Halit , Esen Emel
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study examines the themes present in circular economy disclosures that are published in the integrated reports of banks and analyzes their readability scores.

Design/methodology/approach

From 2016 to 2022, a comparative analysis of the integrated reports from six publicly listed Turkish banks that are significant global players was conducted. A total of 21 reports were analyzed, for readability scores and their environmental disclosures from a circular economy perspective were calculated using textual and sentiment analysis techniques.

Findings

The findings of this study underscore the significant involvement of banks in key areas of the circular economy, such as waste management, renewable energy, emission reduction and sustainable financing. Moreover, the study also reveals that the readability of environmental disclosures in the analyzed integrated reports was generally low, suggesting that the information presented may challenge stakeholders and decision-makers and prevent full comprehension, thereby potentially impeding the most effective engagement by stakeholders with circular economy initiatives.

Originality/value

This study introduces a new approach to circular economy reporting by exploring the application of data analytics models when assessing readability within environmental disclosures. It specifically focuses on the context of integrated reporting within the banking sector, an area that has not yet been extensively explored. The study further underscores the importance of clear and concise communication when engaging stakeholders in circular economy efforts. The implications of this research for the banking and environmental sectors thus make this study a valuable addition to the existing literature.
Optimization model to grasp cutting pieces of fabric layer by layer by soft gripper
Authors: Su Junqiang , Ren Yawei , Jin Guoqing , Wang Nan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To setup a theoretical model for grasping cutting pieces of garment better, which will help to design a special soft gripper and push forward the automated level of garment manufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first analyzed the mechanics of the grasping process and concluded the main factors that affect the success of grasping. A theoretical model named grasping fabric model (GFM) was constructed to show the mechanical relationship between the soft gripper and the fabric pieces. Subsequently, two fabric samples were selected and tested for their friction properties and critical buckling force, and the test data were substituted into the theoretical model GFM to obtain the grasping parameters required for fabric grasping layer by layer.

Findings

It was found that (1) the critical buckling force of the fabric is mainly influenced by the bending stiffness and the deformation length of the fabric during grab. (2) The difference between the friction between the soft gripper and the fabric and the friction between the fabric, that is DF1-2, has an important influence on the accuracy of grasping layer-by-layer.

Originality/value

It showed that the grasping parameters provided by GFM enable the two samples to be more effectively separated layer by layer, which verifies that the GFM model is strong enough for the possible application in garment automated production.
Evaluation of cylinder liner surfaces from a heavy-duty diesel engine run in dynamometer bench test with hBN as nano additive in the lubricant
Authors: Santos Pedro , Sinatora Amilton , Souza Roberto
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Given the current challenges for improving the tribological behavior in automotive engines, which require lubricants that adapt to different operating conditions through replacement mechanisms to reduce friction and wear, this study aims to analyze the use of hexagonal boron nitride nanoparticles blended in the lubricating oil of a diesel engine. The target was to minimize frictional power losses and wear of cylinder liner surfaces to validate what was observed in laboratory and to confirm improvements in thermal efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

Before the definition of the concentration to be used in a real engine environment, tests of sample dispersion were conducted using an ultrasound bath. The mixtures were added to storage bottles in concentrations of 0.1% and 0.5%, as observed in Figure 1. The samples were subsequently analyzed using the dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. There was a reduction in the hydrodynamic size for the sample with 0.5% of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), possibly due to sedimentation of the powder during the analysis, which supported this work to continue with the use of 0.1% concentration.

Findings

The behavior of hBN as nano additive in a real diesel engine was problematic when compared with laboratory environment, leading to impact in oil temperature. In addition, it was noticed a high amount of deposit formation at the top dead center (TDC) and mid-stroke (MC) and nonsignificative wear at MC and bottom dead center (BDC) of the cylinder, with unusual formation of products from antiwear additives known as zinc dialkyl-dithiophosphate at MC position with the use of hBN. For this reason, this work provides insights into how hBN nanoparticles may not contribute toward the improvement of tribological performance.

Originality/value

The findings of this work aimed to provide a better understanding of the impact of hBN nanoparticles used as additives in real engine environment in terms of performance and tribological impacts. The results of this work indicated that hBN as additive gave poor results in terms of performance and wear prevention.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2024-0047/
Taking action to reduce board-level information asymmetry: the adoption of enterprise information systems
Authors: Niu Jiping , Ozdemir Salih Zeki , Kim Young Un
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The timeliness and quality of information provided to board members are crucial for them to effectively monitor and advise a firm. This study examines the influence of board composition and structure on (1) the board’s actions to mitigate the information asymmetry problem by implementing enterprise information systems (EIS) and (2) the board of directors’ awareness of information asymmetry, their perception of its causes and their efforts to address it.

Design/methodology/approach

Our research employs a mixed-methods approach. First, using data from 115 publicly listed Chinese companies, we empirically assess the likelihood of top-level EIS modules adoption at the firm level. Subsequently, through 23 semi-structured interviews, we aim to gain deeper insights into the behavioral motivations behind directors’ attempts to reduce information asymmetry.

Findings

The study reveals that boards with a higher number of independent directors or with a strategy committee – indicative of a greater concern regarding information asymmetry problems – are more inclined to adopt top-level EIS modules. Additionally, we identify three primary sources of information asymmetry that directors consider significant in prompting the adoption of top-level EIS modules to alleviate perceived information asymmetry.

Originality/value

This study contributes to both the corporate governance and information systems literature. The implementation and utilization of EIS at the board level have not been extensively explored previously. Moreover, while the issue of information asymmetry at the board level is recognized as a critical governance challenge, the ways in which directors perceive and address this issue remain largely unknown. Our research seeks to illuminate this relatively less-explored area.
Brokering school improvement through a school–university partnership: a longitudinal social network analysis of middle leadership development
Authors: Bryant Darren A. , Ho Chun Sing Maxwell , Lu Jiafang , Wong Yiu Lun Leo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study addresses a gap in the knowledge on how longitudinal engagement in a school improvement initiative influences change in middle leaders’ (MLs') interactions and assesses how school–university partnerships around school improvement can support teachers with formal leadership roles (i.e. MLs’) leadership development.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a two-year longitudinal research design, university staff facilitated middle leadership training in a school-defined improvement initiative on lesson study. Results from a pre-test followed by two post-tests administered at one-year intervals were collected on social networks. Analyses examined changes in indegree and brokerage patterns among groupings of senior leaders (SL), subject leaders, cross-school specialists and teachers.

Findings

Accounting for staffing changes, 27 of 67 staff members participated in each survey, yielding 1,623 distinct ties connecting school members. Over the first year, advice-seeking increased by 225%. SLs’ initial propensity to consult peers shifted towards MLs and teachers. Subject leaders advising other leaders and teachers increased tenfold. Teachers’ peer-to-peer consultation increased by 2,000%. Specialists with school-wide responsibilities became the dominant group for advising other leaders, such as SLs and subject leaders. These shifts were sustained over the second year.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates that engagement in the school–university partnership support and the corresponding structural changes stimulated robust cross-school dialogue among teachers and various leaders. Brokerage patterns indicated an enhanced role for MLs in driving the school-defined improvement initiative which corresponded to university-designed development activities.
Adapting a school improvement partnership before and during COVID-19: a case study of the resilience of improvement science to complexity
Authors: Viano Samantha , Yurkofsky Maxwell M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Improvement science (IS) has become a popular approach to organizing school–university partnerships because of IS’s potential to increase schools' capacity for sustainable improvement. However, little research has directly examined whether and how specific elements of IS support school improvement, particularly during and post-COVID-19 when improvement was particularly challenging.

Design/methodology/approach

We draw on a longitudinal case study of a school-university partnership supporting a group of schools using IS to guide school improvement with data collected in Fall 2019–Spring 2022 including interviews and meeting observations. We compare how educators engaged with three IS elements: plan-do-study-act (PDSA) continuous improvement (CI) cycles, networked learning and driver diagrams. We qualitatively examine participants' perspectives of these elements through the lens of contingency theory, analyzing which elements were more or less successful at empowering schools to continue their improvement efforts throughout the pandemic.

Findings

IS processes are varied in their resilience to complexity. Schools mostly abandoned some elements during tumultuous periods (PDSA cycles) while others were successfully adapted to sustain improvement work (driver diagrams). Findings also discuss the perceived impact of university partners in school improvement work, primarily as coaches.

Originality/value

These findings are uniquely positioned to examine whether and how IS elements enabled sustained school improvement amidst the complexities generated by COVID-19. By focusing on strengths and limitations of three common elements, we offer valuable guidance to school–university partnerships about the conditions under which these elements might support sustained school improvement and how these elements might need to be adapted.
A nexus of multiple integrations and business performance through supply chain agility and supply flexibility: a dynamic capability view
Authors: Rashid Aamir , Rasheed Rizwana , Ngah Abdul Hafaz , Marjerison Rob Kim
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Manufacturing capability is a crucial component of every nation’s economy and pharmaceuticals are frequently a significant part of the manufacturing sector. Pharmaceutical supply chains are essential to health-care systems, contributing to living quality and shorter hospital stays. This study aims to examine the role of multiple integrations on business performance (BP) through supply chain flexibility (SCF) and supply chain agility (SCA).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 198 supply chain professionals in the pharmaceutical sector of the developing economy of Pakistan. The sample was collected based on a nonprobability purposive sampling approach. A five-point Likert-scale survey was used and analyzed with the PLS-SEM technique using SmartPLS 4.

Findings

This study found that process integration (PI) does not affect SCA, whereas relationship integration and measurement integration positively affect SCA. SCA positively impacts BP. In contrast, all integrations significantly influenced supply flexibility and BP except for PI. Finally, SCF significantly mediates the relationship between all integrations and BP.

Originality/value

This study examined the relationships of multiple integrations on BP, directly and indirectly, through SCF and agility. The theory of dynamic capabilities has been applied and extended to increase the comprehensiveness of the findings. A developing economy’s pharmaceutical industry supply chain was examined, producing empirical evidence of the results.
Generalized pustular psoriasis patient with a heterozygous hypomorphic MPO variant refractory to intravenous spesolimab
Authors: Ogawa Youichi , Maejima Eri , Takeichi Takuya , Okamoto Takashi , Mitsui Hiroshi , Shimada Shinji , Akiyama Masashi , Kawamura Tatsuyoshi
Published: September 2024

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a recurrent and sometimes life‐threatening sterile pustular disease. Because interleukin (IL)‐36 is the central cytokine in disease formation, spesolimab, which interferes with IL‐36 receptor signaling, is highly effective. Here, we report a patient with GPP with a heterozygous hypomorphic MPO variant refractory to intravenous spesolimab. Although spesolimab showed excellent clinical efficacy in resolving pre‐existing pustules and erythema, it did not suppress the emergence of new pustules and erythema, which did not decrease the peripheral blood neutrophil count, therefore bimekizumab, an anti‐IL‐17A/IL‐17F antibody, was administered after the second spesolimab infusion, which resolved the pustules and erythema. We discuss the possible reasons for the resistance mechanism to spesolimab.
Microplastic additions modulate intraspecific variability in root traits and mycorrhizal responses across root‐life history strategies
Authors: Kanold E. , Buchanan S. W. , Dunfield K. , Antunes P. M.
Published: September 2024

Microplastics (MP) are recognized as a major pollutant in terrestrial environments, prompting concerns about their effects on plant–soil dynamics. Despite evidence of MP altering soil physicochemical properties, impacts on belowground root traits and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi remain poorly explored. Existing research has mainly centred on a few model plant species, emphasizing root biomass, and often employs single polymer types and addition rates that surpass realistic scenarios.

To investigate how environmentally relevant mixtures and concentrations of MPs impact plant growth, root trait expression and AM fungal colonization, we conducted a greenhouse experiment using six plant species chosen for their contrasting root life strategies; three species in the Amaryllidaceae family represented resource conservation root traits (Allium fistulosum (onion), Allium tuberosum (chive), Allium porrum (leek)), and three from the Solanaceae family, represented plants with resource acquisitive root traits (Solanum lycopersicum (tomato), Solanum melongena (eggplant), Capsicum annuum (pepper)). MP treatments consisted of control (0% MP), low (0.1% w/w) and high (1% w/w) MP additions, using an environmentally relevant MP mixture of weathered polymer types and shapes. We measured above and belowground biomass, average root trait expression (specific root length (SRL), average root diameter (D) and root tissue density (RTD)), AM fungal colonization, as well as intraspecific variability across MP addition treatments.

We found that responses to environmentally relevant additions of MPs were species specific and not determined by root life‐strategy. MPs increased biomass in leek, eggplant and tomato, while decreasing AM fungal colonization in tomato. MP additions had no discernible impact on average root functional trait expression across species. However, the addition of MPs resulted in altered intraspecific variability in root traits and AM fungal colonization, indicating a mechanism for plant tolerance to MPs.

To address the impacts of MPs on plant functioning, research needs to focus on environmentally relevant mixtures of MPs, considering various plant species' capacities to tolerate soil contamination and the potential for tipping points under real‐world conditions.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Designing cropping systems for nickel agromining on ultramafic land in Albania
Authors: Bani Aida , Álvarez‐López Vanessa , Prieto‐Fernández Angeles , Miho Liri , Shahu Edmira , Echevarria Guillaume , Kidd Petra
Published: September 2024

Agromining describes the technique of growing plants to “mine” metals present in naturally enriched or contaminated soils. This technique comprises a series of processes including improvement of soil quality and production of biomass in order to obtain metals from the ash of harvested hyperaccumulators, which can be considered bio‐ore. The aim of this study was to evaluate different agronomic practices for Ni agromining of the hyperaccumulator species Odontarrhena chalcidica by analyzing (i) Ni yields and (ii) parameters related to soil fertility, biodiversity, and Ni availability. We tested various types of fertilizers including farmyard manure and assessed cultivation of the hyperaccumulator in either continuous monoculture or cropping in rotation with the legume Vicia ervilia. A 2‐year field experiment was established on typical ultramafic Vertisols in eastern Albania. The current study presents the results obtained in the second year of cultivation. After 2 years of agromining, fertilization with animal manure or rotation with the legume improved several soil properties and increased the yield of phytoextracted Ni by four and five times, respectively, relative to non‐fertilized plots. The fertilization treatments did not affect the bacterial diversity indexes but significantly impacted the bacterial community structure. We suggest a fertilization regime including the application of pig or chicken manure (at doses equivalent to NPK 260:105:260; 260:390:260, respectively) every 2 years or the implementation of crop rotation with legumes as effective strategies for developing Ni agromining on Vertisols.
Help‐seeking and access to care for stroke and heart attack during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Weis Christina , Spiliopoulos Georgia , Ignatowicz Agnieszka , Conroy Simon , Mannion Russell , Lasserson Daniel , Tarrant Carolyn
Published: September 2024

In this article we explore how people who experienced a stroke, transient ischaemic attack, or heart attack sought health care during the COVID‐19 lockdown periods. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 27 patients admitted to hospital between March 2020 and May 2021, and one carer who was recruited from cardiac and stroke rehabilitation services in two large acute NHS trusts in England. Drawing on concepts of candidacy, illness and moral work, we discuss how people’s sense‐making about their symptoms fundamentally shaped both their decisions about seeking help and the impact of COVID‐19 on help seeking. Risk perception and interactional ritual chain theory allow further exploration of constructing symbols of national identity in times of crises, managing risk and levels of acceptable risk and critique of ambiguous national messaging over accessing health‐care services for people with emergency health‐care needs. Our findings have wider implications for supporting access into health care for those with life‐threatening conditions under highly publicised strain on the health system, including winter pressure and staff strikes, as well as policymaking and public messaging.
Assessment of Structural and Process Readiness for Postpartum Haemorrhage Care in Uganda and Ghana: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Tancred Tara , Weeks Andrew D. , Mubangizi Vincent , Nene Dei Emmanuel , Natukunda Sylvia , Cobb Chloe , Bates Imelda , Asamoah‐Akuoko Lucy , Natukunda Bernard
Published: September 2024

Objective

To determine structural and process readiness for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) care at referral‐level facilities in Ghana and Uganda to identify opportunities for strengthening.

Design

Mixed‐methods cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Three districts in Ghana and two in Uganda.

Population or Sample

Nine hospitals in Ghana and seven in Uganda; all hospitals had theoretical capacity for caesarean section and blood transfusion.

Methods

We deployed a modular quantitative health facility assessment to explore structural readiness (drugs, equipment, staff) complemented by in‐depth interviews with maternity health service providers to understand process readiness (knowledge, attitudes, and practices as related to World Health Organization [WHO] guidance on PPH care).

Main Outcome Measures

Availability of essential structural components needed to support key PPH processes of care.

Results

In both countries, there was generally good structural readiness for PPH care. However, key common gaps included inadequate staffing (especially specialist physicians), and unavailability of blood for transfusion. Interviews highlighted particularly good process readiness in the provision of uterotonics, recognising and responding to retained placenta, and repairing tears. However, there were clear gaps in the utilisation of tranexamic acid and uterine balloon tamponade.

Conclusions

We have identified good structural and process readiness across both Ghanaian and Ugandan health facilities to support PPH responses. However, some key missed opportunities—to align with current WHO guidance on providing bundles of interventions for PPH care—could be strengthened with minimal investment but promising impact.
Incidental findings in research brain MRI: Definition, prevalence and ethical implications
Authors: de Jong Kenneth J , Poon Emma , Foo Michelle , Maingard Julian , Kok Hong Kuan , Barras Christen , Yazdabadi Anousha , Shaygi Benham , Fitt Gregory J , Egan Gary , Brooks Mark , Asadi Hamed
Published: September 2024

Radiological incidental findings (IFs) are previously undetected abnormalities which are unrelated to the original indication for imaging and are unexpectedly discovered. In brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the prevalence of IFs is increasing. By reviewing the literature on IFs in brain MRI performed for research purposes and discussing ethical considerations of IFs, this paper provides an overview of brain IF research results and factors contributing to inconsistencies and considers how the consent process can be improved from an ethical perspective. We found that despite extensive literature regarding IFs in research MRI of the brain, there are major inconsistencies in the reported prevalence, ranging from 1.3% to 99%. Many factors appear to contribute to this broad range: lack of standardised definition, participant demographics variance, heterogenous MRI scanner strength and sequences, reporter variation and results classification. We also found significant discrepancies in the review, consent and clinical communication processes pertaining to the ethical nature of these studies. These findings have implications for future studies, particularly those involving artificial intelligence. Further research, particularly in relation to MRI brain IFs would be useful to explore the generalisability of study results.
Temporary trade regulations amidst the COVID‐19 pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine
Authors: Ngavozafy Mampiandra Antonia , Latorre Maria C.
Published: September 2024

This article consists of a detailed survey of the trade regulations adopted during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine. It analyses how trade policymakers have responded to unforeseen geopolitical events and how their responses and the scope of these measures have differed depending on the nature of the event. Based on the International Trade Centre's databases of temporary trade measures, we found that 407 COVID‐19‐related and 189 Ukraine conflict‐related regulations have been issued since 2020. During the pandemic, temporary trade measures were global and comprehensive. They have mostly aimed to liberalise the imports and restrict the exports of essential commodities. In contrast, temporary measures were enacted mainly on specific sectors by the belligerents and their allies during the war in Ukraine. They consisted mainly of prohibitions and restrictions of the exports and imports of strategic commodities. Some third countries, considered as neutral in this war, have also adopted temporary measures with global scope to mitigate the sanctions' disruptive effects on their own domestic markets.
Adapting genetic algorithms for multifunctional landscape decisions: A theoretical case study on wild bees and farmers in the UK
Authors: Knight Ellen , Balzter Heiko , Breeze Tom D. , Brettschneider Julia , Girling Robbie D. , Hagen‐Zanker Alex , Image Mike , Johnson Colin G. , Lee Christopher , Lovett Andrew , Petrovskii Sergei , Varah Alexa , Whelan Mick , Yang Shengxiang , Gardner Emma
Published: September 2024

Spatial modelling approaches to aid land‐use decisions which benefit both wildlife and humans are often limited to the comparison of pre‐determined landscape scenarios, which may not reflect the true optimum landscape for any end‐user. Furthermore, the needs of wildlife are often under‐represented when considered alongside human financial interests in these approaches.

We develop a method of addressing these gaps using a case‐study of wild bees in the UK, an important group whose declines may adversely affect both human economies and surrounding ecosystems. By combining the genetic algorithm NSGA‐II with a process‐based pollinator model which simulates bee foraging and population dynamics, Poll4pop, we ‘evolve’ a typical UK agricultural landscape to identify optimum land cover configurations for three different guilds of wild bee. These configurations are compared to those resulting from optimisations for farm income alone, as well as optimisations that seek a compromise between bee populations and farm income objectives.

We find that the land cover proportions in landscapes optimised for each bee guild reflect their nesting habitat preferences rather than foraging preferences, highlighting a limiting resource within the study landscape. The spatially explicit nature of these optimised landscapes illustrates how improvement for a given target species may be limited by differences between their movement range and the scale of the units being improved. Land cover composition and configuration differ significantly in landscapes optimised for farm income and bee population growth simultaneously and illustrate how human agents are required to compromise much more when the multifaceted nature of biodiversity is recognised and represented by multiple objectives within an optimisation framework. Our methods provide a way to quantify the extent to which real‐life landscapes promote or compromise objectives for different landscape end‐users.

Our investigation suggests that optimisation set‐up (decision‐unit scales, traditional choice of a single biodiversity metric) can bias outcomes towards human‐centric solutions. It also demonstrates the importance of representing the individual requirements of different actors with different landscape‐level needs when using genetic algorithms to support biodiversity‐inclusive decision‐making in multi‐functional landscapes.
2'‐Fucosyllactose attenuates aging‐related metabolic disorders through modulating gut microbiome‐T cell axis
Authors: Li Ang , Kou Ruixin , Wang Ruishan , Wang Jin , Zhang Bowei , Liu Jingmin , Hu Yaozhong , Wang Shuo
Published: September 2024

Aging‐related metabolic disorders seriously affect the lifespan of middle‐aged and older people, potentially due to disruptions in the adaptive immune and gut microbial profiles. Dietary intervention offers a promising strategy for maintaining metabolic health. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of 2′‐fucosyllactose (2'‐FL) on aging‐induced metabolic dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms. The results revealed that 2'‐FL significantly relieved aging‐related metabolic disorders, including weight gain, lipid deposition, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, systemic inflammation, and abnormal hepatic metabolism. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a significant reduction in T cytotoxic (Tc), T helper (Th), and regulatory T (Treg) cells and a significant increase in Th17 cells in aged mice, while 2'‐FL relieved the aging‐induced proportional changes in Th and Th17 subtypes. The aging intestinal microecology was characterized by higher Th17/Treg ratios, impaired gut barrier function, lower gut bacterial diversity, decreased abundance of beneficial genera including Ligilactobacillus, Colidextribacter, Mucispirillum, and Lachnoclostridium, and increased abundance of harmful bacteria including Turicibacter and Desulfovibrio, which was ameliorated by 2'‐FL treatment. These findings highlight that 2'‐FL is an ideal dietary prebiotic for improving aging‐related metabolic disorders by modulating both the adaptive immune system and the gut microbial profile.
Changes in Relative Counts of Different Leukocyte Subpopulations in Peripheral and Umbilical Cord Blood of Women With Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes With Respect to Intraamniotic Inflammation and Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Soucek Ondrej , Kacerovsky Marian , Musilova Ivana Kacerovska , Stranik Jaroslav , Kukla Rudolf , Bolehovska Radka , Hornychova Helena , Andrys Ctirad
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the relative counts of different leukocyte subsets in peripheral and umbilical cord blood in pregnancies complicated by preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) with respect to the presence of intraamniotic inflammation (IAI) and fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS).

Methods

Fifty‐two women with singleton pregnancies complicated by PPROM were included in this study. From samples of peripheral and umbilical cord blood, relative counts of these leukocyte subpopulations were determined using multicolor flow cytometry: granulocytes, monocytes, lymphocytes, T cells and their subpopulations, B cells and their subpopulations, and NK cells and their subpopulations. IAI was defined as increased concentrations of interleukin 6 in the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid samples were obtained by transabdominal amniocentesis.

Results

Women with IAI had higher relative counts of monocytes (p = 0.04) in peripheral blood. There was an increased relative number of granulocytes (p = 0.003) and a decreased number of lymphocytes (p = 0.0048), helper CD4+ T cells (p = 0.019), NK cells (p = 0.0001) within leukocytes, NK cells within lymphocytes (p = 0.003) and CD16+ NK cells within NK cells (p = 0.005) in umbilical cord blood samples of women with FIRS. However, after adjusting the results for gestational age at sampling, all differences disappeared.

Conclusions

The presence of IAI or FIRS is not accompanied by significant changes in the relative counts of immune cells in peripheral blood or umbilical cord blood in pregnancies complicated by PPROM.