bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superrestoration of chiral symmetry in massive four-fermion interaction models
Authors: Inagaki Tomohiro , Kimura Daiji , Shimoji Hiromu
Published: June 2024

The chiral symmetry is explicitly and spontaneously broken in a strongly interacting massive fermionic system. We study the chiral symmetry restoration in massive four-fermion interaction models with increasing temperature and chemical potential. At high temperature and large chemical potential, we find the boundaries where the spontaneously broken chiral symmetry can be fully restored in the massive Gross-Neveu model. We call the phenomenon superrestoration. The phase boundary is obtained analytically and numerically. In the massive Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model, it was found that whether superrestoration occurs depends on regularizations. We also evaluate the behavior of the dynamical mass and show the superrestoration boundaries on the ordinary phase diagrams.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Identifying the transverse and longitudinal modes of the
K*
and
K1
mesons through their angular-dependent decay modes
Authors: Park In Woo , Sako Hiroyuki , Aoki Kazuya , Gubler Philipp , Lee Su Houng
Published: June 2024

Observing the mass shifts of chiral partners will provide invaluable insight into the role of chiral symmetry breaking in the generation of hadron masses. Because both the K* and K1 mesons have vacuum widths smaller than 100 MeV, they are ideal candidates for realizing mass shift measurements. On the other hand, the different momentum dependence of the longitudinal and transverse modes smear the peak positions. In this work, we analyze the angular dependence of the two-body decays of both the K* and K1. It is found that the longitudinal and transverse modes of the K* can be isolated by observing the pseudoscalar decay in either the forward or perpendicular directions, respectively. For the K1 decaying into a vector meson and a pseudoscalar meson, one can accomplish the same goal by further observing the polarization of the vector meson through its angular dependence on the two pseudoscalar meson decay.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Analysis of
Bs0→X(3872)[ψ(2S)]π+π−(K+K−)
decays
Authors: Wang Hao-Nan , Geng Li-Sheng , Li Gang , Xie Ju-Jun
Published: June 2024

We have phenomenologically investigated the decays Bs0→X(3872)π+π−(K+K−) and Bs0→ψ(2S)π+π−(K+K−). In our analysis, the scalar meson

f

0

(

980

)

is formed through the final state interactions of coupled channels ππ and KK¯. Our findings indicate that the π+π− invariant mass distribution of the Bs0→ψ(2S)π+π− decay can be accurately reproduced. Furthermore, we have explored the π+π−(K+K−) invariant mass distribution of the Bs0→X(3872)π+π−(K+K−) decay, accounting for the different production mechanisms between X(3872) and ψ(2S), up to a global factor. It is found that the production rates for X(3872) and ψ(2S) are much different, which indicates that the structure of X(3872) is more complicated than the ψ(2S), which is a conventional cc¯ state. Additionally, we have considered the contributions from f0(1500) to π+π− and the ϕ meson to K+K− in our analysis. Utilizing the model parameters, we have calculated the branching fraction of Bs0→X(3872)K+K−, and anticipate that the findings of our study can be experimentally tested in the future.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Can we identify primordial black holes? Tidal tests for subsolar-mass gravitational-wave observations
Authors: Crescimbeni Francesco , Franciolini Gabriele , Pani Paolo , Riotto Antonio
Published: June 2024

The detection of a subsolar object in a compact binary merger is regarded as one of the smoking gun signatures of a population of primordial black holes (PBHs). We critically assess whether these systems could be distinguished from stellar binaries, for example composed of white dwarfs or neutron stars, which could also populate the subsolar mass range. At variance with PBHs, the gravitational-wave signal from stellar binaries is affected by tidal effects, which dramatically grow for moderately compact stars as those expected in the subsolar range. We forecast the capability of constraining tidal effects of putative subsolar neutron star binaries with current and future LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) sensitivities as well as next-generation experiments. We show that, should LVK O4 run observe subsolar neutron-star mergers, it could measure the (large) tidal effects with high significance. In particular, for subsolar neutron-star binaries, O4 and O5 projected sensitivities would allow measuring the effect of tidal disruption on the waveform in a large portion of the parameter space, also constraining the tidal deformability at O(10%) level, thus excluding a primordial origin of the binary. Vice versa, for subsolar PBH binaries, model-agnostic upper bounds on the tidal deformability can rule out neutron stars or more exotic competitors. Assuming events similar to the subthreshold candidate SSM200308 reported in LVK O3b data are PBH binaries, O4 projected sensitivity would allow ruling out the presence of neutron-star tidal effects at ≈3σ CL, thus strengthening the PBH hypothesis. Future experiments would lead to even stronger (>5σ) conclusions on potential discoveries of this kind.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Classification of Symmetry-Enriched Topological Quantum Spin Liquids
Authors: Ye Weicheng , Zou Liujun
Published: June 2024

We present a systematic framework to classify symmetry-enriched topological quantum spin liquids in two spatial dimensions. This framework can deal with all topological quantum spin liquids, which may be either Abelian or non-Abelian and chiral or nonchiral. It can systematically treat a general symmetry, which may include both lattice symmetry and internal symmetry, may contain antiunitary symmetry, and may permute anyons. The framework applies to all types of lattices and can systematically distinguish different lattice systems with the same symmetry group using their quantum anomalies, which are sometimes known as Lieb-Schultz-Mattis anomalies. We apply this framework to classify U(1)2N chiral states and non-Abelian Ising(ν) states enriched by a p6×SO(3) or p4×SO(3) symmetry and ZN topological orders and U(1)2N×U(1)−2N topological orders enriched by a p6m×SO(3)×Z2T, p4m×SO(3)×Z2T, p6m×Z2T, or p4m×Z2T symmetry, where p6, p4, p6m, and p4m are lattice symmetries while SO(3) and Z2T are spin rotation and time-reversal symmetries, respectively. In particular, we identify symmetry-enriched topological quantum spin liquids that are not easily captured by the usual parton-mean-field approach, including examples with the familiar Z2 topological order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Determination of α lamellae orientation in a β-Ti alloy using electron backscatter diffraction
Authors: Harcuba Petr , Šmilauerová Jana , Janeček Miloš , Ilavský Jan , Holý Václav
Published: June 2024

The spatial orientation of α lamellae in a metastable β-Ti matrix of Timetal LCB (Ti–6.8 Mo–4.5 Fe–1.5 Al in wt%) was examined and the orientation of the hexagonal close-packed α lattice in the α lamella was determined. For this purpose, a combination of methods of small-angle X-ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction was used. The habit planes of α laths are close to {111}β, which corresponds to (1320)α in the hexagonal coordinate system of the α phase. The longest α lamella direction lies approximately along one of the 〈110〉β directions which are parallel to the specific habit plane. Taking into account the average lattice parameters of the β and α phases in aged conditions in Timetal LCB, it was possible to index all main axes and faces of an α lath not only in the cubic coordinate system of the parent β phase but also in the hexagonal system of the α phase.
X-ray tensor tomography for small-grained polycrystals with strong texture
Authors: Carlsen Mads , Appel Christian , Hearn William , Olsson Martina , Menzel Andreas , Liebi Marianne
Published: June 2024

Small-angle X-ray tensor tomography and the related wide-angle X-ray tensor tomography are X-ray imaging techniques that tomographically reconstruct the anisotropic scattering density of extended samples. In previous studies, these methods have been used to image samples where the scattering density depends slowly on the direction of scattering, typically modeling the directionality, i.e. the texture, with a spherical harmonics expansion up until order ℓ = 8 or lower. This study investigates the performance of several established algorithms from small-angle X-ray tensor tomography on samples with a faster variation as a function of scattering direction and compares their expected and achieved performance. The various algorithms are tested using wide-angle scattering data from an as-drawn steel wire with known texture to establish the viability of the tensor tomography approach for such samples and to compare the performance of existing algorithms.
Understanding the efficacy of leadership communication styles in flex work contexts
Authors: Mitson Renee , Xu Hao , Hmielowski Jay
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Because a large number of employees now work remotely, either completely or partially (e.g. flexible), it is imperative that scholars and practitioners understand the implications of remote work, such as how employee satisfaction is impacted.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined leadership communication styles to understand how they may be perceived differently for remote workers. Results from an online survey (N = 403) revealed that while higher perceptions of leadership communication styles (responsive, vigilant and motivating language) were related to increased employee satisfaction, the amount of time spent working remotely did not moderate these relationships.

Findings

The findings suggest that the benefits of demonstrating leadership communication strategies can be extended from physical environments into online spaces.

Originality/value

This study is unique in that it centers on communication-forward leadership styles and applies them to remote contexts. Furthermore, remote work is conceptualized as a continuous variable as opposed to a binary, allowing for increased nuance.
A mechanism-based elasto-viscoplastic constitutive model for the creep deformation of martensitic heat-resistant steels
Authors: Yin Jundong , Zhu Baoyin , Song Runhua , Li Chenfeng , Li Dongfeng
Published: June 2024

Purpose

A physically-based elasto-viscoplastic constitutive model is proposed to examine the size effects of the precipitate and blocks on the creep for martensitic heat-resistant steels with both the dislocation creep and diffusional creep mechanisms considered.

Design/methodology/approach

The model relies upon the initial dislocation density and the sizes of M23C6 carbide and MX carbonitride, through the use of internal variable based governing equations to address the dislocation density evolution and precipitate coarsening processes. Most parameters of the model can be obtained from existing literature, while a small subset requires calibration. Based on the least-squares fitting method, the calibration is successfully done by comparing the modeling and experimental results of the steady state creep rate at 600° C across a wide range of applied stresses.

Findings

The model predictions of the creep responses at various stresses and temperatures, the carbide coarsening and the dislocation density evolution are consistent with the experimental data in literature. The modeling results indicate that considerable effect of the sizes of precipitates occurs only during the creep at relatively high stress levels where dislocation creep dominates, while the martensite block size effect happens during creep at relatively low stress levels where diffusion creep dominates. The size effect of M23C6 carbide on the steady creep rate is more significant than that of MX precipitate.

Originality/value

The present study also reveals that the two creep mechanisms compete such that at a given temperature the contribution of the diffusion creep mechanism decreases with increasing stress, while the contribution of the dislocation creep mechanism increases.
Sustainability in banking literature: review and synthesis of thematic structure
Authors: Rajawat Shubhangi , Mahajan Ritika
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This literature review aims to present the thematic and intellectual structure of sustainability in banking literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review and manual content analysis of 158 studies from the Web of Science and Scopus databases has been conducted.

Findings

The study reveals three major themes: conceptualization of sustainability, measurement of sustainability performance and communication of sustainability. The review provides future research directions regarding the quality of reporting, the contribution of sustainable banking toward achieving sustainable development goals, the use of primary data for analyzing sustainable banking initiatives and distinctions in the concepts of sustainability in banking.

Originality/value

Since the beginning of the century, the literature on sustainability in banking has been prolific but heterogeneous and fragmented. Reviews have been restricted to niche areas. This review addresses the lack of a unifying paradigm for sustainability in banking literature.
Board characteristics and Sustainable Development Goals disclosure: evidence from European state-owned enterprises
Authors: Casciello Raffaela , Maffei Marco , Meucci Fiorenza
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study investigates if and how the board size, the board independence, the CEO duality and the board-specific skills are associated with higher-quality Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) disclosure in European State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

Design/methodology/approach

We measured SDGs disclosure through a content analysis of SOE's reports from 2017 to 2022. The characteristics of the boards analyzed are board size, board independence, CEO duality and board-specific skills. We performed multiple regression models to test the association between the SDGs disclosure and the characteristics of the boards.

Findings

The results show that board size, independent directors and board-specific skills are positively associated with higher-quality SDGs disclosure, while CEO duality is negatively associated with higher-quality SDGs disclosure.

Practical implications

This study provides several practical implications. Shareholders could equip their firms with larger boards, more independent and highly skilled directors, while avoiding a CEO duality for improving the SDGs disclosure; capital providers could examine the characteristics of a firm's board before allocating financial resources to verify which firms are accountable in reaching the SDGs. Also, standard-setters and policymakers could use the results of this research to define new standards or regulatory pathways to push firms to put more efforts in preparing a comprehensive and high-quality SDGs disclosure.

Originality/value

While prior studies mostly focused on sustainability reporting overall, this study adds a specific insight about SDGs disclosure employing an investigation which has not been previously analyzed.
Linking e-government development and quality of governance to trust in government: evidence from OECD member countries
Authors: Alsaad Abdallah , Alkhawaldeh Abdelbaset , Elrehail Hamzah , Almomani Rami
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The association between e-government and trust in government has been extensively examined, even though empirical works have returned conflicting conclusions about this association. This study aims to revisit the relationship between e-government and trust in government using macrolevel data from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries. It also addresses whether or not e-government should contribute to the quality of governance to improve trust in government.

Design/methodology/approach

Archival data from 36 OECD members over five years (2012–2015) were used to achieve the study objectives.

Findings

Results indicate that e-government does not directly affect trust in government, although there is an indirect association.

Originality/value

This implies that e-government systems will not significantly impact trust in government unless they contribute to the quality of governance that offers a basis for granting trust in government. Accordingly, value creation, including trust, should be considered during the design of e-government systems to achieve the desired outcomes.
Utilization of abandoned land as cattle grazing restores butterfly and flowering plant diversities in Japan
Authors: Nakahama Naoyuki , Hamano Tomo , Fujimoto Mari , Eto Akifumi
Published: June 2024

Abandoned land management threatens the maintenance of the diversity of flower‐visiting insects and flowering plants. In recent years, cattle grazing on abandoned land has been practiced in Japan to utilize the abandoned land and reduce cattle feed costs. It is important to elucidate the restoration effects that cattle grazing has on the biodiversity of abandoned lands in warm, humid climate regions, such as Japan. However, there are limited case studies that examine the restoration effects on flower‐visiting insects and flowering plants in Japan. In this study, we examined the effects of Tajima cattle grazing on the species richness and abundance of butterflies and flowering plants in abandoned lands in Muraoka‐ku, Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Our results revealed that the vegetation height was lower and species richness and abundance of butterflies and flowering plants was higher in the grazing lands. However, the abandoned lands had a higher vegetation height and significantly lower species richness and abundance of butterfly and flowering plant. Grazing pressure positively and significantly affected the species richness and abundance of butterfly and flowering plant. These results indicate that grazing increased the species richness and abundance of butterfly and flowering plant. There was no significant difference in the species composition between the grazing and abandoned lands, and no significant indicator species were detected in the abandoned lands. We conclude that Tajima cattle grazing systems on abandoned lands can restore the species richness and abundance of butterfly as well as flowering plants.
Does city smartness improve equality? Research on the impact of smart city construction on income inequality
Authors: Chen Hailin , Deng Kun , Schneider Friedrich
Published: June 2024

Smart city construction is an essential practice in the effort to promote the digital transformation of society as a whole. Taking China's ‘National Smart City’ pilot project as a quasi‐natural experiment, this paper studies the income distribution effect of smart city construction by building a differences‐in‐differences model and using the data of China's prefecture‐level cities from 2008 to 2018. The results show that implementing China's ‘National Smart City’ pilot project has significantly reduced regional income inequality. However, this effect has heterogeneity. In regions with a higher level of economic development, human capital accumulation and R&D investment, the impact of smart city construction on reducing income inequality is stronger. In areas with a higher level of human capital accumulation, smart city construction can reduce income inequality. However, this effect is insignificant in areas with a lower level of human capital accumulation. Mechanisms tests show that smart city construction can reduce regional income inequality by creating more jobs, narrowing the digital divide and improving public service delivery. As stated above, this paper implies that accelerating the construction of smart cities and improving the digital and intelligence levels of the wider society is of great significance to reducing income inequality and building a more reasonable income distribution structure.
Making the case for democracy: A field‐experiment on democratic persuasion
Authors: WUTTKE ALEXANDER , FOOS FLORIAN
Published: June 2024

Ordinary citizens can serve as a critical defence against democratic backsliding. But beneath the surface, citizens' commitment to democracy is sometimes fragile, with crises exacerbating existing anxieties. We introduce ‘democratic persuasion’ as an actionable intervention to foster the resilience of citizens' commitment to liberal democracy. ‘Democratic persuasion’ seizes the opportunity of communicating with wavering democrats. ‘Democratic persuasion’ entails actively making the case for democracy and discussing democracy's inherent trade‐offs while engaging existing doubts and misperceptions. Amid the COVID‐19 pandemic, which stirred frustrations with democracy and highlighted democratic trade‐offs, we invited citizens via Facebook to participate in one of sixteen Zoom town halls to engage in discussions on pandemic politics with members of German state and federal parliaments. Each representative hosted two town halls, with random assignment to a condition of ‘democratic persuasion’ in one of the two town hall meetings. The field experiment yielded mixed results, demonstrating significant effects on some indicators of democratic commitment but not on others. This study contributes to the nascent body of research aimed at reinforcing the societal pillars of liberal democracies.
Investigating the nexus between social globalization, energy transition, tourism, and environmental quality: Evidence from quantile regression
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Ahmad Mahmood , Khan Salahuddin , Shamansurova Zilola , Pinzon Stefania
Published: June 2024

Escalations in economic development and the concomitant upsurge in social globalization (SG) in the largest economies have enhanced the utilization of fossil fuels, which in turn has stimulated carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Given that reducing global warming is one of the essential means to disrupt climate change and attain sustainable development, this study examines the interlinkages between SG, energy transition (ENTR), international tourism (ITU), and CO2 emissions. As environmental issues are widespread in the largest economies, this investigation analyzed the data from the 10 largest economies using the Method of Moments Quantiles Regression (MM‐QR) from 1995 to 2020. The study found that ENTR plays a significant role in decreasing emissions and promoting environmental sustainability. Alongside this, increasing social globalization also curbs CO2 emissions and facilitates environmental sustainability. Apart from this, the findings demonstrate a progressively increasing contribution of ITU and economic growth to enhancing environmental degradation. Furthermore, results indicated that carbon emissions are not influenced by reductions in political risks in the member nations. Finally, policies to support environmental sustainability are discussed.
Geographic principles applied to population dynamics: A spatially interpolated integrated population model
Authors: Prochazka Brian G. , Coates Peter S. , O'Neil Shawn T. , Espinosa Shawn P. , Aldridge Cameron L.
Published: June 2024

A major impediment to wildlife conservation and management, from a quantitative perspective, is dealing with high degrees of uncertainty associated with population estimates. Integrated population models (IPMs) can help alleviate that challenge, but they are often limited to narrow spatial or temporal windows owing to the financial and logistical burdens of acquiring requisite datasets. To expand the spatiotemporal scope of practical IPM implementation, we developed a novel method that expresses demographic relatedness among sampled and unsampled locations using geographic principles of spatial autocorrelation.

We interpolated demographic parameters at unsampled locations using parameter estimates from data‐informed locations. Errors attributable to the interpolative process were corrected using a joint likelihood and locally recorded count data (‘cheaper’ and broadly distributed). We evaluated the spatially interpolated IPM (SIIPM) for precision and accuracy under variable levels of spatial autocorrelation using simulated data and a Leave‐One‐Out Cross‐Validation (LOOCV) technique. Conventional IPMs and state‐space models (SSM) were fit to the same simulated datasets to provide a comparative assessment of the novel method. In a final, empirical demonstration we fit the SIIPM to data collected from Greater Sage‐Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; sage‐grouse) populations located in Nevada, U.S.A. during 2013–2021.

SIIPMs outperformed conventional IPMs when fit to data possessing moderate‐to‐high levels of spatial autocorrelation. Under moderate levels of autocorrelation, the average improvement in parameter estimation was 13.6% for survival, 65.3% for recruitment and 23.7% for rate of population change (). When spatial autocorrelation was low, the SIIPM still outperformed contemporary approaches in areas that were geographically close (<67 km) to sampling locations. Under low autocorrelation‐near distance scenarios, we observed SIIPM parameters that were 30.8% (recruitment), 32.5% (; IPM comparison) and 54.0% (; SSM comparison) more precise than contemporary models.

Spatial autocorrelation is often assumed but rarely tested when comparing population dynamics across regions of large geographic extent. We demonstrated that SIIPMs can improve precision of species' vital rate estimation when extrapolating model inference beyond populations for which long‐term monitoring data exists. Specific to sage‐grouse, these results support previous conclusions of broad‐scale spatial autocorrelation in population dynamics and a reproductive‐survival trade‐off previously documented at smaller scales.
Text message questionnaires for Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures after Cesarean section—A feasibility study
Authors: Duch Patricia , Jørgensen Christoffer Calov , Nedergaard Helene Korvenius
Published: June 2024

Background

Inadequate pain relief with moderate to severe pain remains a challenge after cesarean section and may significantly impair postoperative recovery. However, detailed assessment on the timing of severe pain, opioid consumption, influence on activities such as mobilization, breastfeeding, and caring for the infant are difficult to conduct, especially after discharge. Short message services (SMS)‐based questionnaires may offer a low‐cost way of providing such data but with the risk of insufficient response rates. We assessed the feasibility of collecting detailed, prospective data on postoperative pain and recovery during the initial hours and days following cesarean section using SMS‐based questionnaires.

Methods

Prospective Danish single‐center cohort study involving elective cesarean sections under spinal anesthesia with fentanyl and bupivacaine. The postoperative pain regimen consisted of paracetamol, NSAID and oral morphine by request. Patients received an SMS‐based questionnaire at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 48 h postoperatively, as well as on days 7 and 30. Primary outcome: Response rate and time from receiving the SMS to completion of the questionnaires. Secondary outcomes: Opioid consumption and Patient Reported Outcomes Measures on pain and recovery.

Results

From December 2022 to June 2023; 100 patients were included. The response rate was 78% at 6 h postoperatively, decreasing to 63% at 24 h. The median response time from receiving to answering the SMS‐based questionnaire at 6 h after cesarean section was 23 min (IQR 2–72), decreasing to 20 min (IQR 2–78) after 24 h. Severe pain, corresponding to a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score >6, was reported by 57% (95% CI 65–84) at 6 h, decreasing to 28% (95% CI 34–58) at 24 h. Median opioid consumption within the first 24 h was 30 mg (IQR 20–50).

Conclusion

SMS‐based questionnaires on Patient Reported Outcome Measures are a feasible and cost‐effective way of prospectively collecting frequent data with acceptable response rates, even shortly after cesarean section. Secondarily 66% of patients reported severe pain during the first 24 h following cesarean section, with the highest pain scores within the initial 12 h. Future studies should focus on optimizing pain‐management within this timeframe.
A survey of obstetric and gynaecology doctors at an Australian metropolitan tertiary hospital to understand their views, training and confidence in abortion care
Authors: Phung Laura C. , Said Joanne M. , Neel Aekta
Published: June 2024

Background

The barriers to comprehensive abortion care in Australian metropolitan tertiary hospitals are under‐researched. Previous work has suggested that negative practitioner attitudes and lack of training may play a large role; however, this remains poorly understood.

Aim

The aim was to survey doctors practicing obstetrics and gynaecology to better understand their views, training experience and confidence in abortion care.

Method

The method involved a cross‐sectional study via an anonymous survey at a single metropolitan tertiary hospital not providing substantive abortion services in Melbourne, Australia. Inclusion criterion was obstetric and gynaecology medical staff working at that hospital. Data were collected regarding views, training experiences and confidence in first‐trimester medical and surgical abortion, and second‐trimester surgical abortion. Data were analysed according to levels of training, categorised as RANZCOG (Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) Fellows, prevocational/vocational trainees and general practitioner specialists.

Results

Sixty‐one valid responses were received from 90 eligible participants (response rate 68%). An overwhelming majority (96%) supported abortion services. The majority of RANZCOG Fellows felt confident performing first‐trimester surgical abortion (89%) and first‐trimester medical abortion (71%); however, only half felt confident performing second‐trimester surgical abortion (50%). Prevocational/vocational trainees were overall less confident but overwhelmingly expressed interest in gaining further experience in abortion.

Conclusion

Doctors are generally confident in providing first‐trimester abortion services (medical or surgical) in the metropolitan tertiary setting. However, further work is required to understand ongoing barriers to comprehensive abortion care. There may also be a skills shortage for second‐trimester surgical abortion, requiring significant improvements in abortion training.
A novel homozygous LRRC6 mutation causes male infertility with asthenozoospermia and primary ciliary dyskinesia in humans
Authors: Shi Shengjia , Tang Xiangrong , Long Shunhua , Yang Jie , Wang Tianwei , Wang Hongmei , Hu Tingwenyi , Shi Juanzi , Huang Guoning , Qiao Sen , Lin Tingting
Published: June 2024

Background

Dysfunction of motile cilia, including respiratory cilia and sperm flagella, typically leads to primary ciliary dyskinesia and male infertility or low fertility in humans. Genetic defects of LRRC6 have been associated with primary ciliary dyskinesia and asthenozoospermia due to abnormal ultrastructure of ciliated axonemes.

Objectives

To identify novel mutations of the LRRC6 gene related to multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella and male infertility and investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms involved.

Materials and methods

The LRRC6 mutations were identified by whole exome sequencing and confirmed with Sanger sequencing. Papanicolaou staining, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy were performed to investigate the morphological and ultrastructural characteristics of spermatozoa. Further tandem mass tagging proteomics analyses were performed to explore the effect of mutations and confirmed by immunostaining and western blotting. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection was applied for the assisted reproductive therapy of males harboring biallelic LRRC6 mutations.

Results

In this study, we identified a novel homozygous LRRC6 mutation in a consanguineous family, characterized by asthenozoospermia and primary ciliary dyskinesia. Further Semen parameter and morphology analysis demonstrate that the novel LRRC6 mutation leads to a significant reduction in sperm flagella length, a decrease in sperm progressive motility parameters, and abnormalities of sperm ultrastructure. Specifically, the absence of outer dynein arms and inner dynein arms, and incomplete mitochondrial sheath in the flagellar mid‐piece were observed by transmission electron microscopy. In addition, tandem mass tagging proteomics analysis revealed that spermatozoa obtained from patients harboring the LRRC6 mutation exhibited a significant decrease in the expression levels of proteins related to the assembly and function of dynein axonemal arms. Functional analysis revealed that this novel LRRC6 mutation disrupted the function of the leucine‐rich repeat containing 6 protein, which in turn affects the expression of the dynein arm proteins and leucine‐rich repeat containing 6‐interacting proteins CCDC40, SPAG1, and ZMYND10. Finally, we reported a successful pregnancy through assisted reproductive technology with intracytoplasmic sperm injection in the female partner of the proband.

Discussion and conclusion

This study highlights the identification of a novel homozygous LRRC6 mutation in a consanguineous family and its impact on sperm progressive motility, morphology, and sperm kinetics parameters, which could facilitate the genetic diagnosis of asthenozoospermia and offer valuable perspectives for future genetic counseling endeavors.
Explaining the expansion of the NGO sector in China: Through the lense of adaptive corporatist governance
Authors: Song Esther E.
Published: June 2024

What explains the exponential growth of the number of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in China during the recent decades? Moving beyond the extant literature that focuses on the strategic relationship between NGOs and the local state, this article argues that the growth can be also attributed to the central state which has focused on the promotion of different types of NGOs throughout time. The proactive role of the central state has become more conspicuous under the Xi Jinping administration where the party‐state plays a more active role in maneuvering the growth of a service‐oriented third sector. This adaptive strategy has led to the counterintuitive phenomenon of an increase in institutional space for NGOs in authoritarian China, especially the social service‐oriented NGOs in recent years. This article draws from theories of institutional change to explain the process through which the central state has expanded institutional space for NGOs throughout time.
Can Asia's climate leader please step forward?
Authors: Overland Indra , Seah Sharon
Published: June 2024

Asia's contribution will be decisive for the global effort to mitigate climate change. But Asia lacks a country that could take the lead and inspire the rest of the region to accelerate its climate action. To identify countries that could fulfill such a role, this article takes a two‐step, mixed‐methods approach. First, an index is created to identify some potentially leading countries. Second, the top countries identified by the index are assessed in greater detail qualitatively. The analysis finds that China, Japan, and Singapore are the most plausible candidates to take the lead. By doing so, these countries could potentially inspire their neighbors to step up their own efforts as climate change becomes an increasingly important issue in international affairs. However, to become a leader and influence their peers, they will have to make a conscious choice and dedicated effort.
When Cancer Enters the Therapy Room: The Lived Experience of Psychodynamic Therapists Working with Clients with a Recent Diagnosis of Cancer
Authors: Rai Geetika , Ross Alistair
Published: June 2024

The psychological impact of cancer is becoming well‐acknowledged. Given its prevalence, practitioners will encounter cancer in their therapy rooms. There is limited research on the experience and application of psychodynamic therapy for clients with cancer. This study generates a new understanding through the experience of psychodynamic practitioners. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight UK psychodynamic therapists on their lived experience of working with client(s) with a recent (less than 5 years) diagnosis of cancer. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings reveal that psychodynamic therapists' experience with clients with cancer is emotionally demanding, mentally stimulating and deeply personal. They point to the unique space that psychodynamic therapy provides and highlight some of the challenges. The analysis is understood through the framework of psychodynamic theory and practice.
Evaluation of a super powerful bone‐anchored hearing system and its users: A retrospective study
Authors: Teunissen Emma M. , Kok Herman J. W. , Janssen Arno M. , Hol Myrthe K. S. , Bosman Arjan J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Although the Baha 5SP has been commercially available for six years, very few studies have been performed on the device's efficacy. The current study aims to evaluate the characteristics and audiological results in patients with severe‐to‐profound mixed hearing loss fitted with this superpower sound processor.

Methods

This retrospective evaluation was conducted at a tertiary referral centre where a series of 82 adult patients with severe‐to‐profound mixed hearing loss were implanted with a percutaneous bone‐anchored hearing system and fitted with a superpower sound processor between 2016 and 2019. Patients with incomplete or unreliable audiological data (n = 24) were excluded, resulting in 58 data sets for analysis. The main outcome measures were unaided and aided pure‐tone thresholds and aided free‐field speech perception in quiet.

Results

The median unaided air conduction (AC) threshold averaged across 0.5, 1 and 2 kHz (PTA0.5–2kHz) of all patients was 75 dB hearing loss (HL); the median unaided AC averaged across 1, 2 and 4 kHz (PTA1–4kHz) was 84 dB HL. For bone conduction and direct bone conduction, the median PTA0.5–2kHz was 52 and 47 dB HL, respectively. With the superpower device, the median free‐field speech reception threshold was 54 dB sound pressure level (SPL), and the median speech perception score at 65 dB SPL was 80%.

Conclusions

At least 75% of the patients reached a maximum phoneme score of 70%. For patients with lower scores, the superpower device still provides a substantial hearing benefit. This makes the superpower device particularly suitable for patients with severe‐to‐profound mixed hearing loss with a contraindication for conventional hearing aids and/or cochlear implants.
Healthcare professionals perceptions of obesity management: An IMI2 SOPHIA qualitative study
Authors: Steenackers Nele , Willio Seppe , Bruneel Anne , Deleus Ellen , Lannoo Matthias , Matthys Christophe , Mertens Ann , Van Craeyveld Eline , Vangoitsenhoven Roman , Van der Schueren Bart
Published: June 2024

Understanding healthcare professionals' perceptions and approaches to obesity management is limited, as are the barriers impeding effective care. A questionnaire was developed to explore the perception, and barriers to obesity management. To ensure content validity, an expert and stakeholder panel evaluated the relevance and comprehension of each item. Consequently, a cross‐sectional survey was administered to endocrinologists (Endo), general practitioners (GP), and pharmacists (Pharm). A 46‐item questionnaire was developed, validated, and completed by 502 healthcare professionals (Endo: n = 127; GP: n = 138; Pharm: n = 237). The majority agreed that obesity is a chronic disease (Endo = 96%; GP = 92.7%; Pharm = 87%). The conversation about obesity management is mostly initiated by the healthcare professional (Endo = 95.3%; GP = 73.9%; Pharm = 5.9%) instead of the patient (Endo = 55.1%; GP = 21.7%; Pharm = 11.8%). All professionals stated unanimously that there is a need to optimise obesity care in Belgium with identified barriers: motivational (Endo = 90.8%; GP = 90.8%; Pharm = 89.2%), financial (Endo = 96.9%; GP = 88.5%; Pharm = 76.3%), and a lack of structure (Endo = 81.5%; GP = 78.6%; Pharm = 81.5%). A total of 42.4% of the healthcare providers indicated that they did not follow any additional training. These findings highlight that healthcare professionals recognise obesity as a chronic disease, but that barriers need to be addressed to enhance effective care and support for people living with obesity.
NF1+/ex42del miniswine model the cellular disruptions and behavioral presentations of NF1‐associated cognitive and motor impairment
Authors: Swier Vicki J. , White Katherine A. , Negrão de Assis Pedro L. , Johnson Tyler B. , Leppert Hannah G. , Rechtzigel Mitchell J. , Meyerholz David K. , Dodd Rebecca D. , Quelle Dawn E. , Khanna Rajesh , Rogers Christopher S. , Weimer Jill M.
Published: June 2024

Cognitive or motor impairment is common among individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), an autosomal dominant tumor‐predisposition disorder. As many as 70% of children with NF1 report difficulties with spatial/working memory, attention, executive function, and fine motor movements. In contrast to the utilization of various Nf1 mouse models, here we employ an NF1+/ex42del miniswine model to evaluate the mechanisms and characteristics of these presentations, taking advantage of a large animal species more like human anatomy and physiology. The prefrontal lobe, anterior cingulate, and hippocampus from NF1+/ex42del and wild‐type miniswine were examined longitudinally, revealing abnormalities in mature oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, and microglial activation over time. Imbalances in GABA: Glutamate ratios and GAD67 expression were observed in the hippocampus and motor cortex, supporting the role of disruption in inhibitory neurotransmission in NF1 cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction. Moreover, NF1+/ex42del miniswine demonstrated slower and shorter steps, indicative of a balance‐preserving response commonly observed in NF1 patients, and progressive memory and learning impairments. Collectively, our findings affirm the effectiveness of NF1+/ex42del miniswine as a valuable resource for assessing cognitive and motor impairments associated with NF1, investigating the involvement of specific neural circuits and glia in these processes, and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions.
International consensus on the management of large (≥20 mm) colorectal laterally spreading tumors: World Endoscopy Organization Delphi study
Authors: Djinbachian Roupen , Rex Douglas K. , Chiu Han‐Mo , Fukami Norio , Aihara Hiroyuki , Bastiaansen Barbara A. J. , Bechara Robert , Bhandari Pradeep , Bhatt Amit , Bourke Michael J. , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Cardoso Daniela , Chino Akiko , Chiu Philip W. Y. , Dekker Evelien , Draganov Peter V. , Elkholy Shaimaa , Emura Fabian , Goldblum John , Haji Amyn , Ho Shiaw‐Hooi , Jung Yunho , Kawachi Hiroshi , Khashab Mouen , Khomvilai Supakij , Kim Eun Ran , Maselli Roberta , Messmann Helmut , Moons Leon , Mori Yuichi , Nakanishi Yukihiro , Ngamruengphong Saowanee , Parra‐Blanco Adolfo , Pellisé María , Pinto Rafael Castilho , Pioche Mathieu , Pohl Heiko , Rastogi Amit , Repici Alessandro , Sethi Amrita , Singh Rajvinder , Suzuki Noriko , Tanaka Shinji , Vieth Michael , Yamamoto Hironori , Yang Dong‐Hoon , Yokoi Chizu , Saito Yutaka , von Renteln Daniel
Published: June 2024

Objectives

There have been significant advances in the management of large (≥20 mm) laterally spreading tumors (LSTs) or nonpedunculated colorectal polyps; however, there is a lack of clear consensus on the management of these lesions with significant geographic variability especially between Eastern and Western paradigms. We aimed to provide an international consensus to better guide management and attempt to homogenize practices.

Methods

Two experts in interventional endoscopy spearheaded an evidence‐based Delphi study on behalf of the World Endoscopy Organization Colorectal Cancer Screening Committee. A steering committee comprising six members devised 51 statements, and 43 experts from 18 countries on six continents participated in a three‐round voting process. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations tool was used to assess evidence quality and recommendation strength. Consensus was defined as ≥80% agreement (strongly agree or agree) on a 5‐point Likert scale.

Results

Forty‐two statements reached consensus after three rounds of voting. Recommendations included: three statements on training and competency; 10 statements on preresection evaluation, including optical diagnosis, classification, and staging of LSTs; 14 statements on endoscopic resection indications and technique, including statements on en bloc and piecemeal resection decision‐making; seven statements on postresection evaluation; and eight statements on postresection care.

Conclusions

An international expert consensus based on the current available evidence has been developed to guide the evaluation, resection, and follow‐up of LSTs. This may provide guiding principles for the global management of these lesions and standardize current practices.
Adverse event comparison between glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and other antiobesity medications following bariatric surgery
Authors: Samuels Jason M. , Niswender Kevin D. , Roumie Christianne L. , Spann Matthew D. , Flynn C. Robb , Ye Fei , Blankush Joseph , Irlmeier Rebecca , Funk Luke M. , Patel Mayur B.
Published: June 2024

Aim

To compare the incidence of adverse events (AEs) related to antiobesity medications (AOMs; glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists [GLP‐1RAs] vs. non‐GLP‐1RAs) after bariatric surgery.

Methods

This single‐centre retrospective cohort included patients (aged 16–65 years) who had undergone laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy (cohort entry date) and initiated AOMs. Participants were categorized as users of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved, off‐label, or GLP‐1RA AOMs if documented as receiving the medication on or after cohort entry date. Non‐GLP‐1RA AOMs were phentermine, orlistat, topiramate, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, naltrexone, bupropion/naltrexone and phentermine/topiramate. GLP‐1RA AOMs included: semaglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide and liraglutide. The primary outcome was AE incidence. Logistic regression was used to determine the association of AOM exposure with AEs.

Results

We identified 599 patients meeting our inclusion criteria, 83% of whom were female. Their median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 47.8 (40.9–55.4) years. The median duration of surgery to AOM exposure was 30 months. GLP‐1RAs use was not associated with higher odds of AEs: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5–2.6) and aOR 1.1 (95% CI 0.6–2.3) for GLP‐1RA versus FDA‐approved and off‐label AOM use, respectively. AOM initiation ≥12 months after surgery was associated with lower risk of AEs compared to <12 months (aOR 0.01 [95% CI 0.0–0.01]; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results showed that GLP‐1RA AOMs were not associated with an increased risk of AEs compared to non‐GLP‐1RA AOMs in patients who had previously undergone bariatric surgery. Prospective studies are needed to identify the optimal timeframe for GLP‐1RA initiation.