bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Noninvertible Symmetry-Resolved Affleck-Ludwig-Cardy Formula and Entanglement Entropy from the Boundary Tube Algebra
Authors: Choi Yichul , Rayhaun Brandon C. , Zheng Yunqin
Published: December 2024

We derive a refined version of the Affleck-Ludwig-Cardy formula for a 1+1D conformal field theory, which controls the asymptotic density of high energy states on an interval transforming under a given representation of a noninvertible global symmetry. We use this to determine the universal leading and subleading contributions to the noninvertible symmetry-resolved entanglement entropy of a single interval. As a concrete example, we show that the ground state entanglement Hamiltonian for a single interval in the critical double Ising model enjoys a Kac-Paljutkin H8 Hopf algebra symmetry when the boundary conditions at the entangling points are chosen to preserve the product of two Kramers-Wannier symmetries, and we present the corresponding symmetry-resolved entanglement entropies. Our analysis utilizes recent developments in symmetry topological field theories.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Final CONUS Results on Coherent Elastic Neutrino-Nucleus Scattering at the Brokdorf Reactor
Authors: Ackermann N. , Bonet H. , Bonhomme A. , Buck C. , Fülber K. , Hakenmüller J. , Hempfling J. , Henrichs J. , Heusser G. , Lindner M. , Maneschg W. , Rink T. , Sánchez García E. , Stauber J. , Strecker H. , Wink R. ,   CONUS Collaboration
Published: December 2024

The CONUS experiment studies coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering in four 1 kg germanium spectrometers. Low ionization energy thresholds of 210 eV were achieved. The detectors were operated inside an optimized shield at the Brokdorf nuclear power plant which provided a reactor antineutrino flux of up to 2.3×1013  cm−2 s−1. In the final phase of data collection at this site, the constraints on the neutrino interaction rate were improved by an order of magnitude as compared to the previous CONUS analysis. The new limit of less than 0.34 signal events kg−1 d−1 is within a factor 2 of the rate predicted by the standard model. This constraint is discussed in the context of conflicting measurements and results from another reactor neutrino experiment using similar technology.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum computing topological invariants of two-dimensional quantum matter
Authors: Niedermeier Marcel , Nairn Marc , Flindt Christian , Lado Jose L.
Published: December 2024

Quantum algorithms provide a potential strategy for solving computational problems that are intractable by classical means. Computing the topological invariants of topological matter is one central problem in research on quantum materials, and a variety of numerical approaches for this purpose have been developed. However, the complexity of quantum many-body Hamiltonians makes calculations of topological invariants challenging for interacting systems. Here, we present two quantum circuits for calculating Chern numbers of two-dimensional quantum matter on quantum computers. Both circuits combine a gate-based adiabatic time evolution over the discretized Brillouin zone with particular phase estimation techniques. The first algorithm uses many qubits, and we analyze it using a tensor-network simulator of quantum circuits. The second circuit uses fewer qubits, and we implement it experimentally on a quantum computer based on superconducting qubits. Our results establish a method for computing topological invariants with quantum circuits, taking a step towards characterizing interacting topological quantum matter using quantum computers.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comparative study of crystallization kinetics and phase segregation of triple cation and methylammonium lead iodide perovskites on moisture probing using synchrotron X-ray based radiation
Authors: Shatsala Miller , Wanyonyi Stellah , Awino Celline , Mageto Maxwell , Golicha Hussein
Published: December 2024

3D mixed perovskites have achieved substantial success in boosting solar cell efficiency, but the complicated perovskite crystal formation pathway remains mysterious. Here we present detailed crystallization kinetics of mixed perovskites FA0.83MA0.17Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3, where FA is formamidinium and MA is methylammonium, with the addition of Cs+ to form a triple cation perovskite (3-CAT), in a comparison with the perovskite building block MAPbI3 (MAPI) via static grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS) and micro-diffraction measurements. Spin-coated films produced α-perovskite peaks with no PbI2 or δ-intermediate phases, which was a promising result for the 3-CAT perovskite from micro-diffraction measurements. However, the 3-CAT did not remain stable on probing with varied relative humidity (RH) conditions as segregation back to the δ-intermediate and PbI2 phase after 10 s of exposure to an RH value of 11% was found to occur from the GIWAXS results. When RH levels were elevated to over 100%, segregation peaks of PbI2 and δ-intermediate (2H, 4H and 6H) became conspicuous as the α-phase intensity diminished, unlike for MAPI that remains relatively stable. The possible cause of this is hydrophilic bonds that form between the 3-CAT crystals and the small annealing window of the best composition perovskite (5% Cs+) film.
Small-angle rigid-unit modes requiring linear strain compensation
Authors: Eggers Bryce T. , Stokes Harold T. , Campbell Branton J.
Published: December 2024

Group-theoretical and linear-algebraic methods and tools have recently been developed that aim to exhaustively identify the small-angle rotational rigid-unit modes (RUMs) of a given framework material. But in their current form, they fail to detect RUMs that require a compensating lattice strain which grows linearly with the amplitude of the rigid-unit rotations. Here, we present a systematic approach to including linear strain compensation within the linear-algebraic RUM-search method, so that any geometrically possible small-angle RUM can be detected.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of supramolecular aggregate of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-ium bromide with 1,2,3,4-tetrafluoro-5,6-diiodobenzene
Authors: Gurbanov Atash V. , Hökelek Tuncer , Mammadova Gunay Z. , Hasanov Khudayar I. , Javadzade Tahir A. , Belay Alebel N.
Published: December 2024

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C9H20N+·Br−·C6F4I2, contains one 2,2,6,6 tetramethylpiperidine-1-ium cation, one 1,2,3,4-tetrafluoro-5,6-diiodobenzene molecule, and one uncoordinated bromide anion. In the crystal, the bromide anions link the 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine molecules by intermolecular C—H...Br and N—H...Br hydrogen bonds, leading to dimers, with the coplanar 1,2,3,4-tetrafluoro-5,6-diiodobenzene molecules filling the space between them. There is a π–π interaction between the almost parallel benzene rings [dihedral angle = 10.5 (2)°] with a centroid-to-centroid distance of 3.838 (3) Å and slippage of 1.468 Å. No C—H...π(ring) interactions are observed. A Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...F/F...H (23.8%), H...H (22.6%), H...Br/Br...H (17.3%) and H...I/I...H (13.8%) interactions. Hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions are the dominant interactions in the crystal packing.
Considering the dual role of intermediate weights in fuzzy network systems by genetic algorithms
Authors: Moradi Alireza , Saati Saber , Navabakhsh Mehrzad
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Many researchers and analysts are interested in evaluating the performance of a system with a network structure as a decision-making unit. In this regard, fuzzy network data envelopment analysis (FNDEA) is a noticeable and worthy method for evaluating the efficiency of a system with fuzzy data. Based on the structure of a fuzzy network system, which consists of at least two serial stages, an intermediate factor has an output nature for the first stage and an input nature for the second stage. Hence, it is inappropriate to allocate the same weight for each stage using this factor. Unfortunately, contrary to real-world conditions, all previous conventional FNDEA studies have considered the same role for intermediate factors to linearize or simplify models. For the first time, this study attempts to determine the upper and lower bounds of the overall efficiencies of a fuzzy two-stage series system and its subprocesses with unequal intermediate product weights.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model remains in its original nature as a complex combinatorial problem in the nonlinear programming category of NP-hard problems. A genetic algorithm (GA) is utilized as a metaheuristic algorithm, and a novel hybrid GA-FNDEA algorithm is presented to solve the problem.

Findings

The findings of the study outlined several theoretical contributions and practical implications, including as compensatory property of DEA, determining upper and lower bounds, improving efficiency in nonlinear systems, reducing computational burden, enhancing evolutionary algorithms and retaining real-world conditions.

Originality/value

Contrary to real-world conditions, all previous conventional FNDEA studies have considered the same role for intermediate factors to linearize or simplify models. For the first time, this study attempts to determine the upper and lower bounds of the overall efficiencies of a fuzzy two-stage series system and its subprocesses with unequal intermediate product weights.
From lab to market: the financial impact of industry-university-research cooperation on Chinese pharma firms
Authors: Wan Paijie , He Feng , Zhang Hongjie , Wu Rengaowa
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines the impact of industry-university-research (IUR) cooperation on the financial performance of pharmaceutical enterprises in China. The current literature has primarily focused on the effects of IUR cooperation on innovative performance, often overlooking its financial implications. This research aims to address this gap by analyzing how such collaborations affect financial outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a difference-in-differences (DID) approach, this study analyzes data from publicly listed Chinese pharmaceutical companies between 2011 and 2022. The analysis includes robustness checks and heterogeneity analysis to validate the findings.

Findings

Empirical results indicate that IUR cooperation significantly improves the financial performance of pharmaceutical enterprises. Firms engaged in IUR collaborations exhibit a notable improvement in return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). The research findings confirm that absorptive capacity (internal factors) and the external knowledge resource base (external factors) enhance the positive impact of IUR collaboration on the financial performance of pharmaceutical enterprises. Additionally, the heterogeneity analysis based on regional levels of intellectual property protection demonstrates a stronger positive influence of IUR cooperation on the financial performance of pharmaceutical enterprises in regions with greater levels of intellectual property protection.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of the financial benefits of IUR cooperation in the biopharmaceutical sector. By highlighting the significance of absorptive capacity, external knowledge resource base and regional intellectual property protection, this study offers valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders aiming to cultivate effective industry–academia collaborations.
A key to literacy? Exploring Bliss words combined with traditional orthography as a teaching strategy for language and literacy learning for learners with learning disabilities
Authors: Larsson Agnes , Johnson Ensa , Kuyler Ariné , Jennische Margareta
Published: December 2024

For decades, Blissymbolics (Bliss) has been used as a communicative symbol system for persons with complex communication needs. The linguistic features of Bliss words offer the potential for use with learners with learning disabilities to acquire literacy; however, no formal documentation of this is available. This qualitative study aims to describe how Bliss words, as a bridge to teaching and learning literacy for speaking learners with learning disabilities with diverse first languages, is perceived by learners, caregivers, and teachers at a South African school for learners with special educational needs. The study will further report on observations of learners' behaviours since Bliss was introduced. Semi‐structured online interviews were conducted with learners (n = 16) (aged 13–18), teachers (n = 14) as well as caregivers (n = 2). The reflexive thematic analysis developed three primary themes with 10 subthemes. Findings indicate that Bliss was perceived as a useful and enjoyable tool in teaching learners with learning disabilities who have different first languages. Furthermore, it was reported to improve learners' literacy and language skills as well as their psychosocial behaviour. Further studies are proposed to support these findings.
Effect of Gonadotropin‐Releasing Hormone Agonist Pre‐Treatment on Outcomes of Fresh and Frozen Embryo Transfers in Women With Adenomyosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study With Literature Review
Authors: Li Xin , Li Yixin , Peng Hexiang , Wang Mengying , Liu Yuqi , Wu Tao , Xue Qing
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To investigate the effect of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) pre‐treatment on the clinical outcomes of fresh and frozen embryo transfers (ETs and FETs, respectively) in infertile patients with adenomyosis.

Design

Retrospective cohort study with literature review.

Setting

Peking University First Hospital.

Population

We analysed 413 cycles of 369 women with adenomyosis who underwent ETs or FETs.

Methods

We performed logistic regression analysis and meta‐analysis to assess the association of GnRHa pre‐treatment with the clinical outcomes of ETs and FETs.

Main Outcome Measures

The live birth rate (LBR) was compared between patients with and without GnRHa pre‐treatment.

Results

The LBR was higher in the GnRHa pre‐treatment group than in the non‐GnRHa pre‐treatment group in ETs (41.27% vs. 24.32%, p = 0.034) and FETs (40.36% vs. 20.75%, p = 0.008). The odds of achieving a live birth of women with GnRHa pre‐treatment were 2.65 times higher than that of those without (95% CI: 1.19–5.92, p = 0.017) after adjusting for confounders in ETs. Similarly, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 2.43 (95% CI: 1.10–5.40, p = 0.029) in FETs. For the meta‐analysis, eight studies met the inclusion criteria; however, only six reported the adjusted ORs. Combination of these six adjusted ORs with our results revealed that the GnRHa pre‐treatment group had higher LBRs than the non‐GnRHa pre‐treatment group (ET: OR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.30–2.26, FET: OR 2.61, 95% CI: 1.52–4.49).

Conclusions

In women with adenomyosis, GnRHa pre‐treatment may be beneficial for LBRs following both ETs and FETs.
Serum Progesterone Level on the Day of Embryo Transfer Is Not a Reliable Predictor for Frozen–Thawed Embryo Transfer Outcomes With Euploid Blastocyst Transfer: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Wenjun , Xu Yiyao , Liu Xinyan , Pan Jiafu , Cai Bing , Zhou Canquan , Xu Yanwen , Gu Fang
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate whether serum progesterone (P4) levels on embryo transfer (ET) day correlate with the likelihood of live birth in artificial frozen–thawed transfer cycles using intramuscular progesterone.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

University‐affiliated hospital.

Population

Patients undergoing single euploid blastocyst transfer after preimplantation genetic testing.

Methods

Live birth rate (LBR) was calculated in each percentile of serum P4 to detect a threshold associated with an increased probability of LB. The association between serum P4 and pregnancy outcomes was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Main Outcome Measures

LBR was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and early pregnancy loss (EPL) rate.

Results

In total, 761 patients were included, and the overall LBR was 55.72%. For LBR, each percentile group of serum P4 did not significantly differ. The distributions of P4 were comparable between the LB and non‐LB groups, with an average of 12.62 ± 4.05 and 12.84 ± 4.39 ng/mL, respectively. The multivariate analysis revealed that serum P4 did not affect the LBR, whereas the day of the blastocyst (D5 vs. D6: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.52–3.03) and embryo quality (good vs. viable embryo: aOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.37–2.58) were independently associated with LBR. Similarly, serum P4 was not associated with CPR and EPL rates.

Conclusions

Serum P4 levels on ET day do not predict LBR in artificial cycles with intramuscular progesterone.
“No comment”: Language frictions and the IASB's due process
Authors: Flores Eduardo , Monsen Brian R. , Shafron Emily , Yust Christopher G.
Published: December 2024

The IASB asserts that global stakeholder participation in the standard‐setting process is critical for developing and maintaining high‐quality accounting standards. However, the myriad languages used in countries that apply IFRS may impede this participation. We find that the IASB is less likely to receive comment letters from stakeholders in countries with languages that are linguistically distant from English. We also find that comment letters from more linguistically distant stakeholders are less likely to be quoted in IASB staff‐prepared comment letter summaries, suggesting that they have less influence in the redeliberation process. Path analyses show that this result arises from language frictions being associated with reduced writing quality and originality. We also find that language frictions prevent participation in other standard‐setting communication channels. Collectively, language frictions appear to impede the IASB's efforts to equitably obtain and consider valuable global feedback.
Genotypic variations in diverse accessions of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) germplasm under PEG‐induced water stress and its implications for drought tolerance
Authors: Sheela  , Kaur Vikender , Yadav Shashank Kumar , Kheralia Munisha , Kumar Manoj
Published: December 2024

Water constraint is a crucial factor in determining the productivity and production of linseed or flaxseed globally. The root system of flaxseed consists of a single taproot mainly confined to the topsoil; thus, the structure of the root system significantly impacts the uptake of water from the soil. This research conducted root–shoot phenotyping on a diverse range of linseed germplasm under PEG‐induced water deficit stress conditions to unravel the potential of genebank germplasm for drought tolerance. Varied responses to stress and substantial diversity in genotypic response were observed among the linseed accessions for all growth parameters under both normal and stress conditions. The application of PEG led to a decrease (ranging from 7.39% to 62.02%) in all parameters except chlorophyll content, which exhibited an increase of 13.76% in response to stress conditions. Principal component analysis revealed that the first four principal components (PCs) with Eigenvalue >1 explained 74.23% of the total variance, with the first PC alone accounting for 42.15% of the total variance contributed by various traits such as leaf width, shoot length, root–shoot biomass, root length, surface area, and volume. Assessing the comparative performance based on the stress susceptibility index (SSI) for shoot–root length and root surface area, a subset of 12 drought tolerant (SSI ≤ 0.50) and 5 susceptible (SSI > 1.00), genotypes was constituted for validation at the adult plant stage. The accessions IC0096648, IC0523799, IC0249015, IC0096587, IC0385336, IC0498744, IC0499170, EC0041481, IC0526017, IC0623723, IC0113110, and IC0621685 exhibiting tolerance to PEG‐induced water stress during the initial (seedling stage) growth maintained physiological efficiency and yield at the adult plant stage. The elite drought‐tolerant genotypes identified in the present study will provide access to genetically diverse material in breeding to enhance drought tolerance in linseed.
The cost of saving lives: Complications arising from prehospital tourniquet application
Authors: Rittblat Mor , Gendler Sami , Tsur Nir , Radomislensky Irina , Ziv Arnona , Bodas Moran
Published: December 2024

Background

Uncontrolled hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in trauma. Tourniquets (TQs) are commonly used to control bleeding in the prehospital setting, although their application is associated with risks. Therefore, this study aimed to identify complications arising from TQ use and to examine contributing risk factors.

Methods

This retrospective observational study reviewed the medical records of adult trauma casualties (>18 years) hospitalized at Chaim Sheba Medical Center (SMC) between 2010 and 2020 who had a TQ applied in the prehospital setting. The primary outcome was the rate and type of complications. Logistic regression analyses identified risk factors using demographic, injury, and clinical data.

Results

From 2010 to 2020, a total of 84 trauma casualties with documented prehospital TQ application were hospitalized at SMC. Of these, 20 (23.81%) experienced TQ‐related complications, including local infection, compartment syndrome, and thromboembolism. The average TQ application time was 44.2 min, with no significant difference between those with and without complications. However, significant differences were noted in the mechanism of injury (MOI), wound contamination levels, indications for TQ application, and initial blood test results (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analyses revealed length of stay (LOS) and injuries from falls were significantly associated with the development of complications.

Conclusions

This study found that a significant trauma in prehospital settings requiring TQ application is associated with a high rate of complications. Early complications, including local infections and compartment syndrome, were more frequent, whereas late complications like thromboembolism and muscle atrophy were less common. The findings suggest that factors such as the MOI and wound contamination may contribute to these complications, yet after applying multivariate regression, LOS and falls were the only variables found to be significantly associated with the development of complications. These findings underscore the need for further research comparing casualties with and without TQ application.
Refractory Vulvovaginal Lichen Planus Responding to Oral Tofacitinib
Authors: Benny Benetta , Bains Anupama , Nalwa Aasma
Published: December 2024

Erosive vulvovaginal lichen planus is a severe form of Lichen planus (LP) that can result in chronic scarring if not treated. It can cause narrowing of the introitus, resulting in pain, itch, dyspareunia, dysuria, and recurrent urinary tract infections caused by retention of urine. Therefore, an effective and safer therapeutic approach is required. Here, we present a case of refractory erosive vulvovaginal LP, which showed remarkable response to oral tofacitinib, a Janus kinase 1 and 3 (JAK1/3) inhibitor, which was well tolerated.
Who still suffers? Effects of COVID‐19 stressful experiences on somatic symptoms and anxious mood moderated by diurnal cortisol: A daily diary study
Authors: Chen Bowen , Xie Mingjun , Zhang Yanjia , Zhang Hongfeng , Yu Nancy Xiaonan , Lin Danhua
Published: December 2024

This daily diary study drew on the allostatic load model to examine the predictive effect of COVID‐19 stressful experiences (CSE) on somatic symptoms and anxious mood, as well as applying the biological sensitivity to context model to explore whether diurnal cortisol moderated the above associations. A total of 101 Chinese college students retrospectively reported CSE in October 2020, followed by 5‐day diary reports on somatic symptoms and anxious mood in November 2020, with salivary cortisol collected on Days 2 to 4 to measure cortisol awakening response (CAR), diurnal cortisol slope (DCS), and daily cortisol output (area under the curve with respect to ground, AUCg). Results of multilevel models showed that greater CSE predicted more somatic symptoms but not anxious mood, which was only observed at flatter CAR, flatter DCS, or low AUCg. Furthermore, three‐way interactions of CSE, CAR, and AUCg significantly predicted both somatic symptoms and anxious mood. Specifically, greater CSE predicted more somatic symptoms at flatter CAR with low AUCg, while predicting higher anxious mood at flatter CAR with high AUCg. Our findings demonstrate the long‐term consequences following the prior pandemic, especially highlighting the biological vulnerability related to the synergetic effects of diurnal cortisol rhythms and daily cortisol output.
Responsible gambling disclosure strategies of four Nordic state‐owned gambling companies
Authors: Selin Jani
Published: December 2024

The objective of this paper is to examine the responsible gambling (RG) disclosure strategies employed by four Nordic state‐owned gambling companies, each selling products with addictive potential. RG disclosures are used by the gambling industry to proclaim responsibility and interest in gambling harm. Data drawn from company annual reports underwent qualitative content analysis. The analysis based on categories established by Leung and Snell in 2021 revealed four disclosure strategies: assertive façade, defensive façade, disclaiming, and ethical reflexivity. All companies employed an assertive strategy, offering detailed accounts of their RG measures, including initiatives such as care calls to customers. The companies often adopted a defensive strategy, characterized by vague and generalizing language in describing their RG activities. Three companies occasionally adopted a disclamation strategy, presenting RG as a cost. Ethical reflexivity, which involves acknowledging responsibility for gambling harm, was a disclosure strategy seldom chosen by the companies. Although variations exist in the disclosure strategies among the companies, overall, the companies strived to project a positive image. The conclusion suggests that endorsing RG as a legitimate harm prevention approach may mask the inherent conflicts of interest between gambling companies and advocates of harm prevention.
How Has the COVID‐19 Crisis Affected the Link Between ESG Disclosure and Firm Value? A Two‐Level Analysis of European Listed Companies
Authors: Garsaa Aziza
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure scores on the firm value of European listed companies before, during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using a two‐level model and a unique dataset of 264 multinational firms covering the period 2019–2022, we find a negative relationship between ESG disclosure scores and firm value. Nevertheless, the effect of the social and environmental disclosure scores disappears during the crisis, and returns negative during the recovery period. Almost all empirical studies to date have found the inverse effect, suggesting that even though ESG transparency can improve firm reputation, it can also damage it and reduce firm value. We also show that firm‐specific factors remain the biggest source of variability in firm value, even during the crisis. Thus, this paper contributes to the existing literature by suggesting that the impact of ESG disclosure on firm value may vary depending on the economic and financial context in which firms operate. More specifically, it shows that the benefits of ESG disclosure, namely the reduction of agency costs, stakeholder trust, and firm legitimacy, which are expected to increase firm value, may not have the predicted effect in a crisis context. Consequently, these findings provide both an empirical and a theoretical contribution to the existing literature on agency theory, signal theory, and legitimacy theory.
Nurse–Mother Collaborations in Disability Day‐Service Centres for Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Ito Yoshimi , Asakura Kyoko , Sugiyama Shoko , Takada Nozomu
Published: December 2024

Background

Day‐service centres offer valuable support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, often referred to as service‐users. Due to potential communication challenges, nurses must gather information from caregivers, particularly mothers. This study explores the collaboration between nurses at day‐service centres and the mothers of service‐users to enhance care quality.

Methods

This qualitative study collected data from six nurses working at day‐service centres in Japan and conducted an analysis using a descriptive narrative approach. Each nurse participated in two or three semi‐structured interviews, where nurses were encouraged to speak freely, resulting in 16 interviews.

Findings

Three key themes emerged from the collaboration between nurses and service‐users’ mothers: (1) ‘building good relationships with parents to ensure a smooth exchange of information about service‐users’; (2) ‘providing the same care at the day‐service centre as the service‐user would receive at home’; and (3) ‘identifying areas that nurses cannot compromise on while respecting how mothers care for their children’.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into effective nursing care for individuals with intellectual disabilities in day‐service centres, emphasising the importance of productive engagement with their mothers.
Working to Work: Gaining Employment After Inclusive Postsecondary Education
Authors: Ducett Katie , Myers Beth , Shults Brianna
Published: December 2024

Background

Individuals with intellectual disability in the United States have historically been underemployed due to societally constructed barriers. Recently, more individuals with intellectual disability have been attending Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) programmes, which have contributed to improving their employment outcomes.

Methods

This qualitative study analyzed the experiences of five graduates from one IPSE programme who completed an internship during their programme. Semistructured interviews were used to discuss their IPSE internship experiences, current employment and future goals. Transcripts were coded and analyzed inductively.

Findings

At the time of the interviews, each participant had competitive employment. The findings illustrated two significant categories of resources used to gain employment postgraduation: internal university resources such as university staff, course content, work sites and networking groups; and external university resources, including parents, community service agencies and the Internet.

Conclusions

Although external university resources were important to the participants in this study, they may be an area of inequity when considering the intersectionality of disability and other marginalized identities such as race and socioeconomic status. To combat any lack of external resources a student may have, IPSE programmes should plan to address potential inequities programmatically.
Impacts of the installation of basking banks on four UK reptile species in a before–after control–intervention experiment
Authors: Pickles Brian J. , Tse‐Leon Jenny
Published: December 2024

Reptiles are often overlooked in conservation efforts. Hence, long‐term population data is often unavailable, and evidence for effective conservation actions that improve reptile habitat remains scarce for most species. Here we used a before–after control–intervention (BACI) experiment to investigate the impact of basking bank creation on four co‐occurring reptile species: European adder, barred grass snake, slow worm, and viviparous lizard. Long‐term refuge monitoring at a UK wildlife reserve allowed population assessment before and after habitat modification. Only viviparous lizards were observed at basking banks within 12 months of construction. In subsequent years, barred grass snake observations increased near basking banks and slow worms were observed for the first time, while European adder observations increased away from banks and barred grass snake observations decreased away from banks. Our small‐scale BACI study suggests basking banks attracted barred grass snakes from the surrounding area, which saw a corresponding increase in European adder sightings.
Determinants of alcohol consumption among men and women aged 15–49 years in Cambodia: Evidence from the Cambodia demographic and health survey 2021–2022
Authors: Um Samnang , Heng Sovandara , Mok Somany , Chamroen Pall , Sopheab Heng
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Alcohol consumption is a global health issue linked to over 200 diseases and accounts for 5.3% of all deaths annually. We aimed to determine the sociodemographic factors associated with alcohol consumption among Cambodian women and men aged 15–49 years.

Methods

We used data from the 2022 Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey, including 19,496 women and 8825 men aged 15–49. Multiple logistic regressions were performed using STATA V18 to examine factors associated with alcohol consumption.

Results

Nearly 70% of men (95% CI 67.6–70.9) and 16.3% of women (95% CI 15.3–17.3) reported consuming alcohol in the past months. Among men, predictors of alcohol consumption, including those aged 19–24 years, had higher odds of consuming alcohol than the younger ages ≤18 years (AOR 2.14; 95% CI 1.65–2.77). Married men consumed alcohol more than unmarried men and smokers had higher odds of alcohol use than non‐smokers with AOR 1.80 (95% CI 1.52–2.14). Similar patterns were found among women, including increased ages, marriage and smoking were predictors of alcohol consumption.

Discussion and Conclusions

The study highlights the high prevalence of alcohol consumption among the Cambodian adult population, particularly among men. For both sexes, increased ages greater than 18 years, those who were married, had jobs, and smoking were the main predictors of alcohol consumption. Health promotion efforts should be focused on younger adults aged 19–24, who are increasingly engaging in risky behaviours, including alcohol intake and smoking, by raising awareness about the health consequences of harmful alcohol consumption.
SASH1 is a novel binding partner to disassemble Caskin1 tandem SAM homopolymer through heterogeneous SAM‐SAM interaction
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Chen Qiangou , Wu Cang , Ding Yuzhen , Yuan Lin , Wang Ziyi , Chen Yu , Li Jianchao , Liu Zhongmin , Xiao Kang , Liu Wei
Published: December 2024

Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent serine protein kinase (CASK) interaction protein 1/2 (Caskin1/2) is essential neuronal synaptic scaffold protein in nervous system development. Knockouts of Caskin1/2 display severe deficits in novelty recognition and spatial memory. The tandem sterile alpha motif (SAM) domains of Caskin1/2, also conserved in their Drosophila homolog Ckn, are known to form homopolymers, yet their dynamic regulation mechanism remains unclear. In this study, SAM and SH3 domain‐containing protein 1 (SASH1) was first identified as a novel binding partner of Caskin1/2 through yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H) screening. The SAM‐SAM interaction between SASH1 and Caskin1 was biochemically characterized by size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST) pull‐down and co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) assays. Structural insights from AlphaFold2‐predicted models of the Caskin1‐SAMs/SASH1‐SAM1 complex, along with mutagenesis validations, revealed key residues at the end‐helix (EH)/mid‐loop (ML) interface for this interaction. More interestingly, the Caskin1‐SAMs homopolymer can be disrupted by the SAM‐SAM interaction, which was consistently verified by using sedimentation, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunofluorescence (IF) staining in heterologous cell lines. In summary, our findings provide a solid biochemical basis for the Caskin1/SASH1 interaction and propose a potential mechanism for regulating Caskin1/2 homopolymerization via SAM‐SAM interactions. More importantly, the principle governing SAM homopolymer depolymerization is generalized via suggesting two distinct types of heterogeneous SAM‐SAM interactions, offering fresh insights into SAM domain‐mediated homopolymerization and depolymerization.
Genetic Structural Changes While Maintaining Effective Population Size of Bighead Catfish in Nong Han Lake: Implications of Metapopulation Dynamics or Release Activities
Authors: Patta Chananya , Sriphairoj Kednapat , Budi Trifan , Quanoo Dominic Kwesi , Nguyen Ton Huu Duc , Jaito Wattanawan , Chalermwong Piangjai , Pongsanarm Tavun , Thatukan Chadaphon , Wongloet Wongsathit , Panthum Thitipong , Thong Thanyapat , Srikampa Phanitada , Singchat Worapong , Rasoarahona Ryan , Kraichak Ekaphan , Muangmai Narongrit , Chatchaiphan Satid , Hatachote Sittichai , Chaiyes Aingorn , Jantasuriyarat Chatchawan , Chailertlit Visarut , Suksavate Warong , Sonongbua Jumaporn , Prasanpan Jiraboon , Payungporn Sunchai , Han Kyudong , Antunes Agostinho , Srisapoome Prapansak , Dokkaew Sahapop , Duengkae Prateep , Na‐Nakorn Uthairat , Matsuda Yoichi , Srikulnath Kornsorn
Published: December 2024

The Bighead Catfish (Clarias macrocephalus) plays crucial roles in the ecosystem and as a protein source for humans in Nong Han Lake, Thailand, but their ecological and population dynamics, along with their genetic diversity and structure, are poorly understood. Therefore, the dynamics of genetic diversity and differentiation of bighead catfish populations in Nong Han Lake were investigated during 2018–2023 to provide essential insights into preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Microsatellite genotyping was used to assess the genetic diversity of one bighead catfish population in 2018, two populations in 2023, and one hatchery population. Potentially stable, effective population sizes and distinct genetic clusters of these populations were identified, which represented the resilience of populations and the complexity of their genetic dynamics. Genetic differentiation between sample dates and among populations suggested that limited recent and historical genetic exchanges could potentially influence genetic structure. The impact of ecological factors, including flooding, metapopulation dynamics, and human interventions, was indicated by unique and shared gene pools among populations and subpopulations in different years. Ongoing assessment of genetic diversity and structure of bighead populations is essential for developing conservation strategies and ensuring sustainable management.
Causes, Solutions and Health Inequalities: Comparing Perspectives of Professional Stakeholders and Community Participants Experiencing Low Income and Poor Health in London
Authors: McHugh Neil , Baker Rachel , Donaldson Cam , Bala Ahalya , Mojarrieta Marta , White Gregory , Biosca Olga
Published: December 2024

Background

Engaging with the public can influence policy decisions, particularly towards more radical policy change. While established research exists exploring public perceptions on causes of health inequalities, much less exists on how to tackle health inequalities in the UK. Despite an emphasis on ‘lived experience’, currently no study has focused on how individuals with very poor health conceive of both causes of, and solutions to, health inequalities.

Methods

Q methodology was used to identify and describe the shared perspectives that exist on causes of, and solutions to, health inequalities experienced in low‐income communities. Community participants living with low‐incomes and poor health (n = 20) and professional stakeholders (n = 20) from London rank ordered 34 ‘Causes’ and 39 ‘Solutions’ statements onto quasi‐normal shaped grids according to their point of view. Factor analysis defined factors for both ‘Causes’ and ‘Solutions’.

Results

Analysis produced three‐factor solutions for both the ‘Causes’ and ‘Solutions’. ‘Causes’ are (i) ‘Systemic inequality and poverty’, (ii) ‘Ignored and marginalised communities’, (iii) ‘Precariousness, chronic stress and hopelessness’. ‘Solutions’ are (i) ‘Meeting basic needs and providing opportunities to thrive’, (ii) ‘Empowering individuals to take control’, (iii) ‘Supporting healthy choices’. No professional stakeholders aligned with ‘Ignored and marginalised communities’ while at least one community participant or professional stakeholder aligned with all other factors.

Conclusion

Results support the view that the public has a relatively sophisticated understanding of causes of health inequalities and help challenge assumptions held by policy actors that lay members of the public do not recognise and understand more upstream ways to respond to health inequalities.

Patient or Public Contribution

The public contributed to the design of the Q study. Surveys and interviews with community participants informed the development of the statement set and the statement set was also piloted with community participants and finalised based on feedback.
Application of a minimally invasive full‐thickness autologous microcolumn skin harvesting device for donor site tissue collection and augmenting wound healing in a porcine wound model
Authors: Smith Stephen , Curtis Brenda , Nicholson Lisa , Koshy Thomas , Max Tyler , Prevish Brian , Goedegebuure Madeleine , Manista Gregory , Tam Joshua
Published: December 2024

Using a 6‐week porcine full‐thickness excisional wound grafting model, we evaluated the Autologous Regeneration of Tissue (ART®) System, a novel skin harvesting device designed to collect autologous full‐thickness autologous microcolumns (FTAM) at 0.5 mm in diameter. The donor skin sites were harvested using the ART® System and compared to split‐thickness skin grafts (STSGs). Recipient sites were divided into three treatment groups: FTAM, STSG and Untreated control. Comparing the FTAM donor sites to the STSG donor sites, we observed significantly faster re‐epithelization by Day 4 (p < 0.05), earlier adnexal structures and rete ridge formation by Week 3, and increased collagen and elastin content by Week 6. We also observed an increased rate of healing at the FTAM donor site whilst limiting donor site morbidity compared to traditional STSG donor sites. Time to recipient site closure was 2.4 weeks for STSG treated, 3.3 weeks for FTAM treated and 4.1 weeks for the Untreated control (p < 0.05). The STSG and FTAM recipient sites reached complete re‐epithelialization by Weeks 4 and 5, respectively which was significantly faster compared to the Untreated control. However, the FTAM recipient site received only 10% of the donor site tissue relative to the recipient site area and the amount of donor site tissue grafted on the STSG recipient sites was 5× more than the FTAM recipient sites. Additionally, the FTAMs harvested by the ART® System augmented recipient wound site healing as a result of ‘epithelial island’ expansion in contrast to Untreated control sites that closed primarily by contracture.
Two Distinct Atrial Breakthroughs During Fast‐Slow Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia
Authors: Tamura Shuntaro , Nakatani Yosuke , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Kobari Takashi , Kaneko Yoshiaki , Ishii Hideki
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The slow atrioventricular nodal pathway (SP) typically has a single atrial breakthrough site.

Methods and Results

We report a case of fast‐slow type AVNRT with two distinct atrial breakthrough sites during tachycardia. The earliest atrial activation site (EAAS) was at the right inferior septum, followed by the inferolateral wall of the tricuspid annulus. Ablation at the EAAS shifted it to the inferolateral wall.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates two distinct atrial breakthrough sites from a single SP in AVNRT.
Echocardiographic Predictors of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices and Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator
Authors: Efimova Elena , Zeynalova Samira , Eifert Sandra , Dashkevich Alexey , Borger Michael Andrew , Meyer Anna L. , Garbade Jens , Darma Angeliki , Bode Kerstin , Arya Arash
Published: December 2024

Aim

To evaluate the predictive value of preoperative echocardiographic parameters for occurrence of VAs in patients with preexisting ICD undergoing LVAD implantation.

Methods and Results

All consecutive patients (n = 264) with previous ICD who underwent LVAD surgery between May 2011 and December 2019 at our institution were included. The patients were predominantly male (89%) with NICM (59%) and a mean age of 59 ± 10 years. All LVADs were continuous flow device (154 HVAD, 21 HeartMate II, and 89 HeartMate 3). A total of 102 (39%) patients had VAs in the first year after LVAD implantation. We compared echocardiographic parameters in patients with and without VAs before LVAD, at 1 month and 1 year after LVAD implantation. Increased pre‐LVEDD ≥ 72 mm predicted the occurrence of VAs after LVAD implantation for ICM patients (HR: 2.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): [1.3–6.6], p = 0.012), while a larger pre‐RVEDD ≥ 46 mm was predictive in NICM patients (HR: 2.8, (CI): [1.4–5.9], p = 0.004). Moreover, a larger RVEDD at 1 year after LVAD was highly associated with VAs in the first year after LVAD implantation (50 ± 10 vs. 45 ± 8 mm, p = 0.001). All patients demonstrated a significant decrease in LVEDD as well as a reduction in severity of mitral and tricuspid regurgitation during 1 year after LVAD implantation, reflecting left ventricular unloading through the LVAD.

Conclusions

Larger left and right ventricular diameters before LVAD predict the occurrence of VAs after LVAD implantation in ICM and NICM patients. Persistent RV remodeling post‐LVAD is also associated with VAs.
The Association of Food Security With Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A National Health Interview Survey Analysis
Authors: Burton Brittany N. , Sykes Alexis , Canales Cecilia , Ibarra Andrea J. , Chang En , Dahan Jonathan , Milam Adam J. , Yu Tina , Cha Catherine
Published: December 2024

Food security is one of the most researched social determinants of health (SDoH), however, there is a lack of literature on the impact of food security on cardiovascular disease in pregnancy. The primary objective was to examine the association between food security with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of 2019–2022 data from the National Health Interview Survey. The study population included women of childbearing age who were either pregnant or recently pregnant. Logistic regression models were developed to examine the association between food security and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Of the 1635 women included in the analysis, the rate of hypertensive disorders  of pregnancy was 11.1% and the rate of low and very low food security was 5.3% and 4.0%, respectively. The prevalence was 5.8% for hyperlipemia, 0.3% for cardiovascular disease, and 10.5% for diabetes mellitus. The odds of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were statistically significantly increased among women with low food security compared to women with high food security (odds ratio [OR] 2.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19–4.81) after adjusting for age, race, ethnicity, insurance status, body mass index, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Further studies are needed to elucidate the causes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and interventions to address including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and food pantries, as it may be more feasible to address issues of food security among pregnant women.