bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Management of Oral Intake Restrictions in Critically Ill Patients: Insights from a Multicenter Point Prevalence Study
Authors: Hongo Takashi , Yumoto Tetsuya , Liu Keibun , Nakamura Kensuke , Kawauchi Akira , Tsunemitsu Takefumi , Nakanishi Nobuto , Nakao Atsunori , Naito Hiromichi ,   Oral Intake in I. C. U. study group
Published: October 2024

Oral intake restrictions due to dysphagia in the intensive care unit (ICU) can increase morbidity, mortality, and negatively impact quality of life. The current oral intake practice and clinical management strategies for addressing dysphagia in the ICU are not well-defined. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical practices surrounding oral intake restrictions due to dysphagia and its management strategies in the ICU. A multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional, 2-day point prevalence study was conducted in Japan. Relevant data on the clinical circumstances surrounding oral intake practice and the implementation of strategies to prevent dysphagia for patients admitted to the ICU on November 1, 2023, and December 1, 2023, were collected. The primary outcome was the prevalence of oral intake restrictions in patients, defined by a Functional Oral Intake Scale score of less than 7 among eligible patients for oral intake. Out of 326 participants, 187 were eligible for the final analysis after excluding 139 patients who were not eligible for oral intake, primarily due to tracheal intubation. Among those eligible, 69.0% (129/187) encountered oral intake restrictions. About 52.4% (98/187) of patients underwent swallowing screenings; 36.7% (36/98) of these were suspected of having dysphagia. Compensatory and behavioral swallowing rehabilitation were provided to 21.9% (41/187) and 10.6% (20/187) of patients, respectively, from ICU admission to the survey date. Only 27.4% (14/51) of post-extubation and 9.3% (3/32) of post-stroke patients received swallowing rehabilitation. Notably, no ICUs had dedicated speech and language therapists, and most (85.7%, 18/21) lacked established swallowing rehabilitation protocols. This 2-point prevalence survey study revealed that oral intake restrictions due to dysphagia are common in ICUs, but few patients are screened for swallowing issues or receive rehabilitation. More clinical studies are needed to develop effective protocols for identifying and managing dysphagia, including screenings and rehabilitation in the ICU.
Rapidly changing environmental conditions in a coastal setting during the Berriasian (“German Wealden”, lower Cretaceous): evidence from biomarker and bulk geochemical data
Authors: Blumenberg Martin , Scheeder Georg , Stoepke Fritz-Lukas , Pierau Roberto , Erbacher Jochen
Published: October 2024

During the Middle to Late Berriasian (so called “German Wealden”) a large lake system developed in the Lower Saxony Basin (LSB; in northwestern Germany) of which the eastern part is characterized by varying fluvial and lacustrine influences. The changeable situation through the earliest Cretaceous, particularly in the eastern LSB, is relatively understudied and a recently drilled well (KB-Rehburg 2; R-2) can help shedding light on these variations. R-2 covers the Berriasian ostracod zones Wealden 1 to 4 (Wd1 to Wd4), and palynomorphs presented in another study record stages with fluctuating predominantly terrigenous or aquatic organic matter. Short-term marine ingressions (MI) and more extensive transgressive events (TE) during that time interval have been reported, but some remained questionable. We here present novel organic geochemical data (including Rock–Eval and biomarkers) from R-2 showing a low maturity in terms of organic geochemical stress (Rock–Eval T
max ~ 435 to 445 °C) and bulk geochemical and biomarker data support the fluctuation in the sources of the predominating organic matter. In addition to the recently published marine influx events recorded in R-2, a significant decrease in pristane/phytane and increase in dinosterane index biomarker ratios demonstrate the previously unclear TE2 at the beginning of zone Wd4. While dinoflagellate cysts during that stage were reported to occur only sporadic, the dinoflagellate-specific dinosterane biomarker became highly abundant [“dinosterane/(regular steranes + dinosteranes)” ratio up to 0.15]. It demonstrates that dinoflagellates also flourished at R-2 during zone Wd4. This palynomorph/biomarker mismatch may be explained by the prevalence of non-cyst forming, or less likely, non-preservation of cells of dinoflagellates. Our data from R-2 also points at a likely widespread and general complication for palaeoreconstructions because we observed a slight lag between first records of palynomorphs used for TE and MI event identification compared to changing biomarker ratios and bulk organic geochemistry. We hypothesize that while the first likely demonstrate first occurrences of pioneer organisms, which mark events best, organic geochemical data appear to be more integrating and record changes only after establishment of a palaeoenvironment.

Graphical Abstract
Rapid method for screening of both calcium and magnesium chelation with comparison of 21 known metal chelators
Authors: Konečný Lukáš , Lomozová Zuzana , Karabanovich Galina , Roh Jaroslav , Vávrová Kateřina , Mladěnka Přemysl
Published: October 2024

Chelation is the rational treatment modality in metal overload conditions, but chelators are often non-selective and can, hence, cause an imbalance in the homeostasis of physiological metals including calcium and magnesium. The aim of this study was to develop an affordable, rapid but sensitive and precise method for determining the degree of chelation of calcium and magnesium ions and to employ this method for comparison on a panel of known metal chelators. Spectrophotometric method using o-cresolphthalein complexone (o-CC) was developed and its biological relevance was confirmed in human platelets by impedance aggregometry. The lowest detectable concentration of calcium and magnesium ions by o-CC was 2.5 μM and 2 μM, respectively. The indicator was stable for at least 110 days. Four and seven out of twenty-one chelators strongly chelated calcium and magnesium ions, respectively. Importantly, the chelation effect of clinically used chelators was not negligible. Structure–activity relationships for eight quinolin-8-ols showed improvements in chelation particularly in the cases of dihalogen substitution, and a negative linear relationship between pKa and magnesium chelation was observed. Calcium chelation led to inhibition of platelet aggregation in concentrations corresponding to the complex formation. A novel method for screening of efficacy and safety of calcium and magnesium ion chelation was developed and validated.

Graphical abstract
Assessment of validity, reliability, and feasibility of OMERACT ultrasound knee osteoarthritis scores in Egyptian patients with primary knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Menyawi Manal Abd El Moniem El , Gamal Galila , Abdelbadie Hoda , Elgohary Rasmia
Published: October 2024

Background

Ultrasound (US) can evaluate all joint components affected by knee osteoarthritis (KOA); however, standardized scoring of US-detected pathology is needed to improve its diagnostic and monitoring capabilities.

Objectives

To examine the validity, reliability, and feasibility of the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) ultrasound scoring for KOA, comparing with clinical and radiography measures, using predefined cutoff values.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 75 Egyptian patients with primary KOA. All patients had Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, bilateral knee radiography, and ultrasonography. Inter-observer reliability of ultrasound was evaluated in 30 knees by another newly trained operator.

Results

Most of the OMERACT-US KOA scores showed significant associations with WOMAC clinical scores, except for femoral cartilage damage and effusion. The synovitis score was significantly associated with WOMAC–pain score (p-value 0.046), while medial meniscus extrusion (MME) and medial osteophytes were significantly associated with WOMAC–stiffness score (p-value 0.009 and 0.023, respectively). MME and synovitis were significantly associated with WOMAC–physical score (p-value 0.035 and 0.020, respectively). The ultrasound scores also showed a strong correlation with radiographic scoring. Inter-observer reliability ranged from moderate to excellent agreement (k = 0.58 to k = 0.83); it was highest for lateral osteophytes (k = 0.83), good agreement for synovitis (k = 0.72), any osteophytes (k = 0.71), damage of femoral cartilage (k = 0.70), and moderate agreement for medial osteophytes (k = 0.58) and MME (k = 0.59).

Conclusion

OMERACT-US scoring system for KOA demonstrated validity, reliability, and feasibility for evaluating both structural and inflammatory components. Using cutoff values improved the scoring reliability for osteophytes and MME.

Key Points• OMERACT-US scores provide a valid assessment of inflammatory and structural components of knee osteoarthritis.• The following changes may improve the performance of the OMERACT-US scores.a. The binary score for effusion and synovial hypertrophy can be omitted, as they have no added value.b. A semi-quantitative grading for effusion may capture the impact of effusion on clinical outcomes.c. Added cutoff values to score medial meniscal extrusion, osteophytes, and pathological effusion improved the respective scores’ reliability.d. Applying the updated OMERACT definition of synovitis.• OMERACT-US scores are reliable to be used with a newly trained operator, particularly when cutoff values are included, and proper training time is provided.• The OMERACT-US score is feasible to be used in clinical practice, as the time taken to perform was short, even for a newly trained operator.
Interventions for Preventing Tobacco Uptake among Adolescents within School Setting in South-East Asia region: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bantwal Priyanka , Kulkarni Muralidhar M. , Kamath Veena G. , Jay Ratna , Jois Gahan S. , Sekar Nivetha , Shankar M. Vaishna , Bajwa Dalraj S. , Bhagawath Rohit , Naik Ashwath K.
Published: October 2024

Background

Tobacco users disproportionately reside in lower-and-middle income countries, with many people beginning consumption of tobacco in adolescence. Countries employ interventions in schools as a means of providing health education thereby creating mass awareness among them. However, research has mostly restricted to developed nations.

Objective

To examine the impact of interventions implemented in preventing tobacco uptake among adolescents in school setting in South-East Asia region.

Method

The protocol was registered prospectively on PROSPERO (CRD42022337341). Systematic search was conducted on 6 databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest and Web of Science. Randomized Control Trials (RCT) and Cluster RCT conducted in school set-up in South-East Asia among adolescents below 18 years’ age were included. Articles between timeline 2002–2022 were considered.

Results

From a total of 963 articles, total of 13 studies were included. Four were RCT, while nine were Cluster RCT. Most of the studies were targeted at change in prevalence, followed change in knowledge and attitude towards tobacco and impact on susceptibility to use tobacco. Nine studies had interventions based on Health Promoting School Framework, three were Peer-led Interventions and one was Counsellor-centred Intervention. Risk of Bias assessment revealed eight studies had low risk of bias, two had some concerns while three were high risk studies.

Conclusion

Interventions that focus on building a holistic environment and go beyond the usual classroom environment have primarily been implemented and found to be effective in this region. There is a need for strong, high-quality RCT studies with standardised evaluation techniques to combat tobacco use among adolescents.
Active, passive and hybrid multilocal living practices - towards a classification
Authors: Wächter Leonie
Published: October 2024

The accelerated pace of life, increased mobility and the individualisation of society have yielded a variety of postmodern living and housing environments. The proliferation of multilocal living practices can be understood as part of this change. Research on multilocality often focuses exclusively on those who reside in several places. The sedentary members of the same household, who remain at the primary residence and whose lives are significantly influenced by the rhythmic absence of the mobile members, are largely overlooked. Furthermore, the quantitative estimates of the extent of multilocal practices, based on official data, are currently insufficient. The aim of this study is to classify multi-local lifestyles to capture the diversity and complexity of these living practices, thereby expanding scholarly understanding of multilocality in its numerical entirety. To achieve this, a representative survey using a largely standardized questionnaire was conducted in two major city regions in Germany in the spring of 2023. The data from the study identified specific types of multilocality: active, passive, and hybrid multilocals, each exhibiting distinct characteristics. The integration of these multilocality types into the structure of multilocal households enables a classification that provides a framework for understanding how such households are organized and how they manage their mobility and residential practices. It is argued that all members of a multilocal household are significantly influenced by practises of multilocality, leading to a constant negotiation of their everyday lives.
C-Agree is local subject-verb agreement in Kipsigis
Authors: Driemel Imke , Kouneli Maria
Published: October 2024

Upwards-oriented complementizer agreement raises questions about the directionality and locality of agreement. Based on novel data from original fieldwork, we argue that what has been described as an agreeing ‘say’-based complementizer in Kipsigis (Diercks and Rao 2019; Diercks et al. 2020) is the lexical verb ‘say,’ and what looks like C-Agree is in fact agreement between this verb and its locally introduced (often covert) subject. Our analysis highlights that ‘say’-based complementizers might be of category V, not C, in more languages than previously thought (Koopman 1984; Major 2021), which means that some instances of what has been described as C-Agree may instantiate standard verbal agreement. Furthermore, we provide a semantic analysis of ‘say’-based complementation in Kipsigis along the lines of contentful eventualities (Hacquard 2006; Kratzer 2013a).
The development of an in vitro floral culture transformation system for quinoa
Authors: Sidorov Vladimir , Maughan Peter J. , Yang Peizhen
Published: October 2024

Because of its high-quality seed protein and ability to thrive in marginal habitats, Chenopodium quinoa has been identified as an important emerging grain crop for global food security. However, the lack of an efficient and robust transformation system has been a barrier for conducting the advanced genetic studies needed to better understand and improve the species for agronomic traits. Here we present a novel transformation system based on Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of in vitro floral culture. Quinoa floral cultures were established from inflorescences that naturally formed on plants grown in vitro. When placed on a cytokinin-containing medium, chopped inflorescences rapidly generated highly meristematic floral cultures, primarily composed of floral buds, flowers at various developmental stages, inflorescence shoots, and leafy structures. Transformation of these cultures with Agrobacterium carrying selectable and visual markers (NPTII and GUS) produced independent, stably transformed meristematic cultures resistant to paromomycin after an extended selection period (about 3 mo with sub-culture occurring every 15 d). Transformation frequency was about 20% and was calculated as the number of independent transformed events per initial number of floral culture explants used for transformation. In vitro flowers and inflorescences from putative transgenic events self-pollinated naturally and produced viable seeds that germinated without dormancy. We also demonstrated that flowering shoots could be successfully grafted onto wild rootstock to increase the number of seeds generated from T0 floral shoots. Molecular and phenotypic analysis of the progeny confirmed that the transgenes were stably integrated and inherited according to expected Mendelian ratios.
Role of Mo and Zr Additions in Enhancing the Behavior of New Ti–Mo Alloys for Implant Materials
Authors: Awad Ahmed H. , Saood Modar , Aly Hayam A. , Abdelghany Ahmed W.
Published: October 2024

The utilization of Ti–Mo alloys in biomedical applications has gained attention for use in biomedical applications owing to their non-toxicity, reasonable cost, and favorable properties. In the present study, Ti–12Mo–6Zr and Ti–15Mo–6Zr alloys were prepared using elemental blend and mechanical alloying techniques. The effect of alloying elements Mo and Zr of Ti–Mo alloy, as well as the effect of fabrication techniques of Ti–Mo–Zr trinary alloys, were investigated. Thermodynamic calculations supported by CALPHAD analysis revealed that the addition of Zr increases lattice distortion, which contributes to enhancing the strength. Conversely, adding Mo decreases the enthalpy, facilitating improved mixing and solid solution formation. The as-sintered samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical microscope, and scanning electron microscopy, and their microhardness, compressive, and corrosion behavior were investigated. Among all the investigated alloys, Ti–15Mo–6Zr alloy prepared by the mechanical alloying technique, milled for six hours at 300 rpm, compacted at 600 MPa, and sintered at 1250 ℃, shows good comprehensive mechanical properties with a preferable compressive strength (− 1710 MPa) and hardness (396 HV5), as well as the lowest wear rate (0.69%) and corrosion rate (0.557 × 10–3 mm/year). This can be related to the solid solution strengthening and relative density, together with dispersion and precipitation strengthening of the α phase. Remarkably, the combination of high mechanical and corrosion properties can be achieved by tailoring the content of the α phase, controlling the density, and providing new fabricating techniques for β Ti alloys.

Graphical Abstract
Iontophoresis and electroporation-assisted microneedles: advancements and therapeutic potentials in transdermal drug delivery
Authors: Abbasi Mehrnaz , Heath Braeden
Published: October 2024

Transdermal drug delivery (TDD) using electrically assisted microneedle (MN) systems has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional drug administration routes. This review explores recent advancements in this technology across various therapeutic applications. Integrating iontophoresis (IP) and electroporation (EP) with MN technology has shown significant potential in improving treatment outcomes for various conditions. Studies demonstrate their effectiveness in enhancing vaccine and DNA delivery, improving diabetes management, and increasing efficacy in dermatological applications. The technology has also exhibited promise in delivering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), treating multiple sclerosis, and advancing obesity and cancer therapy. These systems offer improved drug permeation, targeted delivery, and enhanced therapeutic effects. While challenges remain, including safety concerns and technological limitations, ongoing research focuses on optimizing these systems for broader clinical applications. The future of electrically assisted MN technologies in TDD appears promising, with potential advancements in personalized medicine, smart monitoring systems, and expanded therapeutic applications.

Graphical Abstract
Sensitizations to pollen differ between Central European and Sub-Saharan African atopic dermatitis patients
Authors: Fehr Danielle , Rentschler Muriel , Sendrasoa Fandresena , Li Nick , White Anna , Distler Meike , Lang Claudia , Masenga Gloria , Mosha Nelson , Semango George , Clemens Clara , Rasamoelina Tahinamandranto , Soankasina Abel Hermann , Rapelanoro Rabenja Fahafahantsoa , Mavura Daudi , Masenga John Elisante , Schmid-Grendelmeier Peter , Brüggen Marie-Charlotte
Published: October 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is often associated with allergic comorbidities, such as allergic asthma or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC). Sensitizations to pollen can directly impact AD, as patients can experience exacerbation during pollen season. This study aims to gain more insights into the pollen sensitization patterns of AD patients in Central Europe compared with sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

We performed a case–control study involving a total of 90 participants: 20 AD patients and 10 healthy controls (HC) each from Switzerland (CH), Tanzania (TZ), and Madagascar (MD). We collected clinical data and serum samples and performed a multiplex IgE test (ALEX2 Allergy Explorer, MacroArray Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria).

Results

The prevalence of ARC and asthma in AD patients was similar in all countries (ARC: 60% TZ, 70% CH, 75% MD; asthma: 25% TZ, 30% CH, 20% MD). Total IgE levels were significantly higher in both SSA HC populations compared with the Swiss HC. The analysis of specific IgE levels revealed major differences in sensitization patterns between Africa and Europe, especially regarding grass pollen allergens. Swiss AD patients were sensitized to various grass pollen such as Bahia grass, Bermuda grass, common reed, perennial ryegrass, rye, and timothy grass. However, these allergens were irrelevant in the SSA population: no AD patient or HC subject was sensitized to the tested grass pollen.

Conclusion

The considerably different sensitization patterns between European and SSA AD patients warrant the development of allergy testing and desensitization therapies tailored to the African setting. Therefore, there is a need to characterize local pollen types and counts.
How Do You Become Resilient? A Critical Realist Explanation of the Youth Resilience Process
Authors: Ho Grace W. K. , Leung Doris Y. L. , Chan Athena C. Y. , Bressington Daniel T. , Karatzias Thanos
Published: October 2024

Adversities serve as risks, but also opportunities to acquire capacities to adjust positively in future stressors. There is now considerable agreement that resilience should be viewed as a process. However, a key question remains: Why do some individuals exhibit resilience while others do not? The present study aimed to provide a detailed description of the youth resilience process and theorized on the specific mechanisms that support positive adjustment following adversities in early life. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 34 young adults with adverse childhood experiences; analysis followed a paradigm of critical realism. Results were organized in three levels of realist ontology to provide hierarchical and substantive support of findings and theorizations. We propose the Youth Resilience Process Model (Y-RPM), which integrates and builds on existing theories and concepts to explain the mechanisms and different pathways of internal processes that foster resilience among youths.
On sea ice emission modeling for MOSAiC's L-band radiometric measurements
Authors: Hernández-Macià Ferran , Gabarró Carolina , Huntemann Marcus , Naderpour Reza , Johnson Joel T. , Jezek Kenneth C.
Published: October 2024

The retrieval of sea ice thickness using L-band passive remote sensing requires robust models for emission from sea ice. In this work, measurements obtained from surface-based radiometers during the MOSAiC expedition are assessed with the Burke, Wilheit and SMRT radiative transfer models. These models encompass distinct methodologies: radiative transfer with/without wave coherence effects, and with/without scattering. Before running these emission models, the sea ice growth is simulated using the Cumulative Freezing Degree Days (CFDD) model to further compute the evolution of the ice structure during each period. Ice coring profiles done near the instruments are used to obtain the initial state of the computation, along with Digital Thermistor Chain (DTC) data to derive the sea ice temperature during the analyzed periods. The results suggest that the coherent approach used in the Wilheit model results in a better agreement with the horizontal polarization of the in situ measured brightness temperature. The Burke and SMRT incoherent models offer a more robust fit for the vertical component. These models are almost equivalent since the scattering considered in SMRT can be safely neglected at this low frequency, but the Burke model misses an important contribution from the snow layer above sea ice. The results also suggest that a more realistic permittivity falls between the spheres and random needles formulations, with potential for refinement, particularly for L-band applications, through future field measurements.
Living the good life? A systematic review of behavioural signs of affective state in the domestic horse (Equus caballus) and factors relating to quality of life. Part I: Fulfilment of species-specific needs
Authors: Hall Carol , Kay Rachel
Published: October 2024

The welfare of horses involved in sport and leisure activities has come under increasing scrutiny, both from within the equine sector and from the public. A systematic review of scientific evidence was conducted to derive observable, evidence-based behavioural measures of positive or negative affective state and factors relating to quality of life in the domestic horse (Equus caballus). Two separate searches (including the terms ‘emotion/affect’, or ‘stress’) were conducted, with 179 articles being retained. In Part I of this two-part review (companion paper published simultaneously), articles relating to the extent to which the species-specific needs of the horse are fulfilled in the home environment (n = 21), in relation to social grouping (n = 20), and during weaning (n = 14) were reviewed. Experimental tests of affective state in relation to housing and management (n = 8), and studies relating to stereotypical behaviour (n = 7) were also included. Opportunities for behavioural expression were dependent upon the provision of social and physical resources. Withdrawn or agitated behaviours in situ, avoidance behaviour during handling and agonistic intra-species interactions were indicative of negative affective state. Affiliative intra-specific social interactions, and forage ingestion were considered positive signs. For horses to live a good life, their need for space, companionship, and forage must be prioritised from birth and throughout their lives.
Reset controller synthesis: a correct-by-construction way to the design of CPS
Authors: Zhan Naijun , Su Han , Yang Mengfei , Gu Bin
Published: October 2024

Controller synthesis offers a correct-by-construction methodology to ensure the correctness and reliability of safety-critical cyber-physical systems (CPS). Controllers are classified based on the types of controls they employ, which include reset controllers, feedback controllers and switching logic controllers. Reset controllers steer the behavior of a CPS to achieve system objectives by restricting its initial set and redefining its reset map associated with discrete jumps. Although the synthesis of feedback controllers and switching logic controllers has received considerable attention, research on reset controller synthesis is still in its early stages, despite its theoretical and practical significance. This paper outlines our recent efforts to address this gap. Our approach reduces the problem to computing differential invariants and reach-avoid sets. For polynomial CPS, the resulting problems can be solved by further reduction to convex optimizations. Moreover, considering the inevitable presence of time delays in CPS design, we further consider synthesizing reset controllers for CPS that incorporate delays.
Requirements management for lean digital twins
Authors: Rigby Jake , Jackson Bruce
Published: October 2024

The “digital twin” is now a recognized core component of the Industry 4.0 journey, helping organizations to understand their complex processes, resources and data to provide insight, and help optimize their operations. Despite this, there are still multiple definitions and understandings of what a digital twin is; all of which has led to a “mysticism” around the concept. Following the “hype curve” model, it can be seen that digital twins have moved past their initial hype phase with only minimal implementation in industry, this is often due to the perceived high cost of initial development and sensor outfit. However, a second hype peak is predicted through the development of “lean digital twins.” Lean digital twins represent conceptual or physical systems in much lower detail (and hence at much lower cost to build and manage the models), focusing in on the key parameters and operators that most affect the desired optimal outcomes of the physical system. These lean digital twins are requirements managed with the system to ensure added value and tapping into existing architectures such as onboard platform management systems to minimize costs. This article was developed in partnership between BMT and Siemens to demystify the different definitions and components of a lean digital twin and discuss the process of implementing a lean digital twin solution that is tied to the core benefits in question and outlining the tools available to make implementation a reality.
Computational omics approaches to investigate the potential causal role of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances in depression
Authors: Bian Beilei , Revez Joana A. , Crouse Jacob J. , Hickie Ian B. , Gachon Frédéric , Wray Naomi R.
Published: October 2024

Hickie et al. (2023) pose the question “Are sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances (SCRD) the cause or simply the consequence of depression or other mood disorder sub-types?” and suggest strategies to better understand the role of SCRD in depression. Here, we contribute to the discussion by highlighting state-of-the-art computational omics methods (and the data sets needed to use these methods) which have potential for improving our understanding of the role of circadian biology in mood disorders.
Rule of Law Mechanisms: Remote Risk Prevention in a Disorganised Crisis Management
Authors: Kovács Anita
Published: October 2024

Over the last fifteen years, the European Union has built up its regulatory response to the rule of law crisis. That framework seeks to address rule of law-related undesirable events depending on whether or not they have already occurred. As risk prevention has a limited role in the EU’s rule of law policy, undesirable events are mostly dealt with in the context of crisis management. Evaluation, reaction and conditionality mechanisms are all affected by issues relating to operability and legitimacy which reduce their overall performance. The resulting moderate efficiency of crisis management tools may still be improved by making use of the upgraded rule of law mechanisms in a systemic way.
Improved covering results for conjugacy classes of symmetric groups via hypercontractivity
Authors: Keller Nathan , Lifshitz Noam , Sheinfeld Ohad
Published: October 2024

We study covering numbers of subsets of the symmetric group

$S_n$

that exhibit closure under conjugation, known as normal sets. We show that for any

$\epsilon>0$

, there exists

$n_0$

such that if

$n>n_0$

and A is a normal subset of the symmetric group

$S_n$

of density

$\ge e^{-n^{2/5 - \epsilon }}$

, then

$A^2 \supseteq A_n$

. This improves upon a seminal result of Larsen and Shalev (Inventiones Math., 2008), with our

$2/5$

in the double exponent replacing their

$1/4$

.

Our proof strategy combines two types of techniques. The first is ‘traditional’ techniques rooted in character bounds and asymptotics for the Witten zeta function, drawing from the foundational works of Liebeck–Shalev, Larsen–Shalev, and more recently, Larsen–Tiep. The second is a sharp hypercontractivity theorem in the symmetric group, which was recently obtained by Keevash and Lifshitz. This synthesis of algebraic and analytic methodologies not only allows us to attain our improved bounds but also provides new insights into the behavior of general independent sets in normal Cayley graphs over symmetric groups.
Community-informed perspectives of implementing interpersonal psychotherapy for couples to reduce situational intimate partner violence and improve common mental disorders in Mozambique
Authors: Mootz Jennifer J. , Fortunato dos Santos Palmira , Moridi Leyly , dos Santos Katia , Weissman Myrna , Oliffe John L. , Stith Sandra , Khan Saida , Feliciano Paulino , Suleman Antonio , Rolin Stephanie A. , Giusto Ali , Wainberg Milton L.
Published: October 2024

Background

High rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental disorders are present in Mozambique where there is a significant treatment gap. We aimed to report Mozambican community stakeholder perspectives of implementing couple-based interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT-C) in preparation for a pilot trial in Nampula City.

Methods

We conducted 11 focus group discussions (6–8 people per group) and seven in-depth interviews with key informants in mental health or gender-based violence (n = 85) using purposive sampling. We used grounded theory methods to conduct an inductive coding and then deductively applied the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR).

Results

For the outer setting, local attitudes that stigmatize mental health conditions and norm IPV as well as an inefficient legal system were barriers. Stakeholders expressed high acceptability of IPT-C, although a lack of resources was a structural challenge for the inner setting. Adaptation of the approach to screen for and address potential mediators of IPV was important for adopting a multisectoral response to implementation and planning. Delivering IPT-C in the community and in collaboration with community stakeholders was preferable.

Conclusion

Stakeholders recommended multilevel involvement and inclusion of community-based programming. Task shifting and use of technology can help address these resource demands.
Examining subjective well-being during pregnancy and its association with pregnancy intendedness among women in Nigeria: A population-based cross-sectional multilevel study
Authors: Ujah Otobo I. , Olagbuji Biodun N. , Kirby Russell S.
Published: October 2024

In this study, we examined the patterns of subjective well-being (SWB) measures among pregnant women and quantified the extent to which pregnancy intendedness is associated with low SWB measures during pregnancy. We analyzed data from the 2021 Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey comprising 3,491 pregnant women. The associations between pregnancy intention and low SWB measures (unhappiness, low life satisfaction [LS] and diminished optimism) were determined by fitting series of multilevel logistic regression models with random intercepts. Among pregnant women in our sample 20%, 37.5% and 9.6%, reported being unhappy, experiencing low LS and having diminished optimism, respectively. However, we found no significant association between pregnancy intention and being unhappy (mistimed: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.88–1.60; unwanted: aOR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.71–1.91), experiencing low LS (mistimed: aOR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.83–1.37; unwanted: aOR = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.69–1.65) and having diminished optimism (mistimed: aOR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.82–1.82; unwanted: aOR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.56–2.04). Findings from the study suggest that pregnant women in Nigeria who reported having either a mistimed or unwanted pregnancy were just as likely to report being unhappy, experience low LS and have diminished optimism as women whose pregnancy was intended.
The Far Right Out of Its Comfort Zone? Framing Opposition to Immigration during COVID-19 in Italy
Authors: Bazurli Raffaele , Castelli Gattinara Pietro
Published: October 2024

While we know that the far right thrives when migration is salient in public agendas, what happens when this issue is no longer under the spotlight? Building on 25 face-to-face interviews with activists mobilized against migration during COVID-19 in Italy, this article explores far-right framing of migration as a non-salient issue. We find that far-right groups indeed reframe their messages vis-à-vis a less favourable political setting; yet they are also able to seize fresh opportunities to reactivate opposition to migration, notably via prognostic frames delivering ostensibly depoliticized views that hijack solidarity principles and emphasize pragmatic and technocratic approaches to border control and migration management. In uncovering the discursive strategies used by far-right actors to bolster their credibility and appeal when out of their comfort zone, this article contributes to the scholarly understanding of politicization and highlights the mechanisms by which far-right ideas are becoming normalized in the public sphere.
Going Digital … But What For? Parties' Ideological Positions and Divides on Platform Societies in Western Europe
Authors: Guglielmo Marco
Published: October 2024

The digital transition has become a crucial area of ideological contestation, as ongoing debates on digital surveillance and data commodification exemplify. Yet, we know too little about how political parties tap into these confrontations. This article elaborates a critical approach to map the ideological positions that 25 parties in France, Germany, Italy and Spain adopt on platform societies. The empirical analysis classifies parties' positions to uncover how their views on the digital economy and digital politics reshape their core ideologies. While parties are distributed along six ideological positions, most cases populate three types: Platform Neoliberalism, Social Liberalism 4.0 and Platform Socialism. These types represent the tripartite ideological divide on platform societies. Ultimately, this study provides an empirically informed theory of comparative digital politics and the foundation for research agendas on political parties' views on digitalization and the relations between ideologies, public policy and parties' organizational change in the digital age.
Influence of large-scale free-stream turbulence on bypass transition in air and organic vapour flows
Authors: Bienner Aurelien , Gloerfelt Xavier , Cinnella Paola
Published: October 2024

The free-stream turbulence (FST) induced transition in perfect and non-ideal gas zero-pressure-gradient flat-plate boundary layers is investigated by means of large-eddy simulations. The study focuses on the influence of large incoming disturbances over the laminar-to-turbulent transition, by comparing two different integral length scales

$L_f$

, which differ by a factor of seven, at different FST intensities

$T_u$

. High-subsonic dense-gas boundary layers of the organic vapour Novec649, representative of organic Rankine cycle applications, are compared with air flows at Mach numbers 0.1 and 0.9. Compressibility and non-ideal gas effects are shown to be of minor importance in comparison to the influence of the FST integral length scale

$L_f$

. An increase of the inlet turbulent intensity always promotes transition, whereas an increase of

$L_f$

has a double effect on the transition onset. At

$T_u=2.5\,\%$

, increasing

$L_f$

promotes the transition, while it tends to delay transition for an FST intensity of 4 %. Larger FST integral scales tend to increase the spanwise distance between laminar streaks generated in the boundary layer. Two competing transition scenarios are observed. When the incoming turbulence intensity and length scale are moderate, the classical bypass route consists in the linear non-modal growth of streaks, which then experience secondary instabilities (sinuous or varicose) and lead to the generation of turbulent spots. The second scenario is characterized by the appearance of

$\Lambda$

-shaped structures near the inlet, which are further stretched to hairpin vortices before breaking down to turbulence. Spot inceptions can therefore occur at earlier locations than the streak growth. We are then faced with a competition between the classical bypass transition and nonlinear response mechanisms that ‘bypass’ this route. The present case at high

$L_f$

and low

$T_u$

is an example of a competing scenario, but even for the higher

$T_u$

and

$L_f$

conditions, only approximately one-third of turbulent spots are due to the

$\Lambda$

-shaped events. The nonlinear alternative route has strong similarities with scenarios described previously in the literature in the presence of leading edge effects or due to passing wakes. Such a path is governed by the turbulence intensity, but also by the integral length scale, with both parameters playing a critical role in the generation of the

$\Lambda$

-shaped structures near the inlet. This alternative mechanism is found to be robust under varying flow and thermodynamic conditions.
Epistemic tensions in R&D alliances and the role of inter-organizational management controls
Authors: De Silva Diana Marie , Agostini Lara , Nosella Anna , Verwaal Ernst
Published: October 2024

Access to heterogeneous knowledge resources is suggested in the literature as an important explanation of firm innovation and performance. The exchange of knowledge, however, can be a complex managerial challenge, especially between different epistemic communities. Our research focuses on the concept of epistemic communities to illuminate the complexity of tensions that arise in heterogeneous knowledge exchange in alliances, thus filling a gap in the literature. Using the Straussian grounded theory case study approach, our research investigates the emergence of horizontal, vertical, and inter-organizational epistemic tensions and explores management controls as instruments to guide the knowledge exchange in intermediary-driven research and development alliances. We find that the source of multiple epistemic tensions is rooted in the natural social behaviors of epistemic community members and further shows how these behaviors influence the effective use of inter-organizational management controls in facilitating heterogeneous knowledge exchange.
Progression of the surge in the Negribreen Glacier System from two years of ICESat-2 measurements
Authors: Trantow Thomas , Herzfeld Ute Christina
Published: October 2024

The state-of-the-art measurement capabilities of ICESat-2 allow high spatiotemporal resolution of complex ice-dynamic processes that occur during a surge. Detailed and precise mapping of height changes on surging glaciers has previously escaped observations from space due to the limited resolution of space-borne altimeter data and the surface characteristics of glaciers during surge, such as heavy crevassing. This makes geophysical interpretation of deformation and assessment of mass transfer difficult. In this paper, we present an approach that facilitates analysis of the evolution of geophysical processes during a surge, including height changes, crevassing, mass transfer and roughness. We utilize all data from two years of ICESat-2 observations collected during the mature phase of the Negribreen Glacier System surge in 2019 and 2020. The progression of Negribreen's surge has resulted in large-scale elevation changes and wide-spread crevassing, making it an ideal case study to demonstrate ICESat-2 measurement capabilities, which are maximized when coupled with the Density Dimension Algorithm for ice surfaces (DDA-ice). Results show expansion of the surge in upper Negribreen which demonstrates the ability of ICESat-2/DDA-ice to measure a rapidly changing surging glacier and provide the best estimates for cryospheric changes and their contributions to sea-level rise.
Implementation evaluation of a pilot project addressing issues at the human–dog interface in a northern indigenous community
Authors: Delesalle Léa , Callaghan Liam , Saint-Charles Johanne , Ravel André , Aenishaenslin Cécile
Published: October 2024

In 2020, the Kuujjuaq Dog Project (KDP) was operationalized in the Northern Village of Kuujjuaq (Québec, Canada) to mitigate issues at the human–dog interface. Differing from previous interventions in its EcoHealth approach, it provided veterinary services, educational components (school workshops and Facebook posts) and strengthened local dog control measures. In 2022, an implementation evaluation assessed its quality of its delivery, differentiation, adaptations and the community’s responsiveness. The study followed key principles of the One Health approach and a mixed-methods design, combining a survey of 74 participants and individual interviews with 10 key stakeholders and 25 other community members. Analysis confirmed the relevance of the KDP, highlighting its innovative nature compared to previous dog-related interventions in northern Québec. Awareness of and exposure to the KDP’s components varied considerably between veterinary services (89%), Facebook posts (55%) and school workshops (27%). Global exposure to both the veterinary services and educational components was lower among Inuit, men and non-dog owners (not statistically significant). Barriers and facilitators to implementation included long-term engagement of stakeholders and building meaningful partnerships with local stakeholders. Beside supporting the future evolution of the KDP, this study fills knowledge gaps on how to successfully implement integrated, participatory interventions in northern Indigenous communities.
Cyclic orders and graphs of groups
Authors: McDonough Harrison J. , Wise Daniel T.
Published: October 2024

We examine a cyclic order on the directed edges of a tree whose vertices have cyclically ordered links. We use it to show that a graph of groups with left-cyclically ordered vertex groups and convex left-ordered edge groups is left-cyclically orderable.
Non-Western Scholars, Bourgeois Virtues, and the International Scientific Community in the Age of Empire, 1870–1920
Authors: Gänger Stefanie
Published: October 2024

Historians have long argued that science was fashioned as a bourgeois, Western cultural practice by the late nineteenth century, in ways that allowed its practitioners to exclude or distance themselves – through a rhetoric of endeavour, utilitarianism, and progress – from the more useless, ‘frivolous’ learning of aristocrats, women, or, indeed, native ‘informants’ in the colonies. This article examines the case of scholars from outside northern Europe and North America – Japanese literati, creole intellectuals, and Lebanese scholars – who managed to participate in the period’s Western scientific networks as peers. It holds that these men were able to establish epistemic credibility not because their lower rung in a political and racial hierarchy was ever irrelevant, but because their status as upper-middle-class professionals and their bourgeois habitus – their ‘civility’, and ‘manners’ – in some measure made up for it. The article reveals, rather than forthright ‘exclusion’ and ‘silencing’ of non-Europeans, complex epistemic hierarchies and geographies of knowledge. It exposes the mechanisms of epistemic inclusion and its limits in the period: the functioning of an academic community that was – in many, rather significant ways – also a social world.