bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explainable AI classification for parton density theory
Authors: Kriesten Brandon , Gomprecht Jonathan , Hobbs T. J.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Quantitatively connecting properties of parton distribution functions (PDFs, or parton densities) to the theoretical assumptions made within the QCD analyses which produce them has been a longstanding problem in HEP phenomenology. To confront this challenge, we introduce an ML-based explainability framework, XAI4PDF, to classify PDFs by parton flavor or underlying theoretical model using ResNet-like neural networks (NNs). By leveraging the differentiable nature of ResNet models, this approach deploys guided backpropagation to dissect relevant features of fitted PDFs, identifying x-dependent signatures of PDFs important to the ML model classifications. By applying our framework, we are able to sort PDFs according to the analysis which produced them while constructing quantitative, human-readable maps locating the x regions most affected by the internal theory assumptions going into each analysis. This technique expands the toolkit available to PDF analysis and adjacent particle phenomenology while pointing to promising generalizations.
Dark matter raining on DUNE and other large volume detectors
Authors: Acevedo Javier F. , Berger Joshua , Denton Peter B.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Direct detection is a powerful means of searching for particle physics evidence of dark matter (DM) heavier than about a GeV with 𝒪(kiloton) volume, low-threshold detectors. In many scenarios, some fraction of the DM may be boosted to large velocities enhancing and generally modifying possible detection signatures. We investigate the scenario where 100% of the DM is boosted at the Earth due to new attractive long-range forces. This leads to two main improvements in detection capabilities: (1) the large boost allows for detectable signatures of DM well below a GeV at large-volume neutrino detectors, such as DUNE, Super-K, Hyper-K, and JUNO, as possible DM detectors, and (2) the flux at the Earth’s surface is enhanced by a focusing effect. In addition, the model leads to a significant anisotropy in the signal with the DM flowing dominantly vertically at the Earth’s surface instead of the typical approximately isotropic DM signal. We develop the theory behind this model and also calculate realistic constraints using a detailed GENIE simulation of the signal inside detectors.
Towards $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 superconformal higher-spin theory
Authors: Kuzenko Sergei M. , Raptakis Emmanouil S. N.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Three years ago, we proposed free off-shell models for $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal higher-spin multiplets in arbitrary conformally flat backgrounds, constructed conserved conformal higher-spin supercurrents for a massless hypermultiplet, and sketched the Noether procedure to generate its cubic couplings to the superconformal higher-spin multiplets. This paper is devoted to completing the Noether procedure. Specifically, we: (i) describe the unique off-shell primary extensions of the conformal higher-spin supercurrents; (ii) embed the off-shell superconformal prepotentials into primary unconstrained isotwistor multiplets; and (iii) present the unique gauge transformations of the hypermultiplet and the isotwistor prepotentials. An extension of the Noether procedure beyond the cubic level is also sketched, following the earlier $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 superconformal approach developed by the authors and Ponds in 2022. Our construction is based on making use of the polar hypermultiplet within the projective-superspace setting.
Solving recurrence relations for multiloop integrals in the limit of large values of the dimensional regularization parameter
Authors: Baikov P. A.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

A method for calculating the 1/d expansion coefficients for solutions of integration by parts relations for Feynman integrals is presented. The idea is to use linear substitutions to transform these relations to an explicitly recursive form. A possible type of such substitutions is proposed for the case of vacuum integrals. Its applicability is shown for several families of massless (with one massive line) vacuum integrals up to the 7-loop level.
Cubic interactions for massless and partially massless spin-1 and spin-2 fields
Authors: Boulanger Nicolas , Garcia-Saenz Sebastian , Pan Songsong , Traina Lucas
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We perform a complete classification of the consistent two-derivative cubic couplings for a system containing an arbitrary number of massless spin-1, massless spin-2, and partially massless (PM) spin-2 fields in D-dimensional (anti-)de Sitter space. In addition to previously known results, we find a unique candidate mixing between spin-1 and PM spin-2 fields. We derive all the quadratic constraints on the structure constants of the theory, allowing for relative “wrong-sign” kinetic terms for any of the fields. In the particular case when the kinetic terms in each sector have no relative signs, we find that the unique consistent non-trivial theory is given by multiple independent copies of conformal gravity coupled to a Yang-Mills sector in D = 4. Our results strengthen the well-known no-go theorems on the absence of mutual interactions for massless and PM spin-2 fields.
Exploring replica-Potts CFTs in two dimensions
Authors: Kousvos Stefanos R. , Piazza Alessandro , Vichi Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We initiate a numerical conformal bootstrap study of CFTs with S

n
 ⋉ (S

Q
)
n
global symmetry. These include CFTs that can be obtained as coupled replicas of two-dimensional critical Potts models. Particular attention is paid to the special case S
3 ⋉ (S
3)3, which governs the critical behaviour of three coupled critical 3-state Potts models, a multi-scalar realisation of a (potentially) non-integrable CFT in two dimensions. The model has been studied in earlier works using perturbation theory, transfer matrices, and Monte Carlo simulations. This work represents an independent non-perturbative analysis. Our results are in agreement with previous determinations: we obtain an allowed peninsula within parameter space for the scaling dimensions of the three lowest-lying operators in the theory, which contains the earlier predictions for these scaling dimensions. Additionally, we derive numerous bounds on admissible scaling dimensions in the theory, which are compatible with earlier results. Our work sets the necessary groundwork for a future precision study of these theories in the conformal bootstrap.
Plant intelligence dux: a comprehensive rebuttal of Kingsland and Taiz
Authors: Trewavas Anthony
Published: November 2024

Intelligence is a fundamental property for all life enabling an increased probability of survival and reproduction under wild circumstances. Kingsland and Taiz (2024) think that plants are not intelligent but seem unaware of the extensive literature about intelligence, memory, learning and chromatin topology in plants. Their views are consequently rejected. Their claim of fake quotations is shown to result from faulty reasoning and lack of understanding of practical biology. Their use of social media as scholarly evidence is unacceptable. Darwin’s views on intelligence are described, and their pertinence to the adaptive responses of plants is discussed. Justifications for comments I have made concerning McClintock and her “thoughtful” cell, von Sachs writings as indicating purpose (teleonomy) to plant behaviour, Went and Thimann’s allusions to plant intelligence and Bose legacy as the father of plant electrophysiology are described. These scientists were usually first in their field of knowledge, and their understanding was consequently deeper. The article finishes with a brief critical analysis of the 36 scientists who were used to condemn plant neurobiology as of no use. It is concluded that participants signed up to a false prospectus because contrary evidence was omitted.
Cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis of a nurse-led, transitional care model to improve care coordination for patients with cardiovascular diseases: results from the “Cardiolotse” study
Authors: Coors Marie , Schüttig Wiebke , Reber Katrin C. , Darius Harald , Holzgreve Alfred , Karmann Sebastian , Stürtz Anica , Zöller Rebecca , Kropp Saskia , Riesner Petra , Sundmacher Leonie
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess the 12-month cost-effectiveness of the nurse-led transitional care program “Cardiolotse” (CL) for patients with cardiovascular diseases compared to usual care (UC).

Methods

A cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) and cost-utility analysis (CUA) were conducted from the perspective of statutory health insurance (SHI), covering a time horizon of 12 months. Analyzed outcomes included the number of rehospitalizations and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Total costs comprised program costs and the utilization of healthcare resources. Point estimates are presented as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) and incremental cost-utility ratios (ICURs). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were conducted to illustrate uncertainty and provide insights into the impact mechanisms of the CL program.

Results

The study population consisted of 2550 patients, with 1256 allocated to the intervention group and 1294 to the control group. Patients who received support from CLs experienced fewer rehospitalizations and lower inpatient costs from an SHI perspective, compared to the UC group. HRQoL assessments indicated higher utility values for CL patients at the 12-month follow-up. Total program costs amounted to €1454.65 per patient. The CEA and CUA demonstrate that the CL program is dominant compared to UC from the SHI perspective.

Conclusion

Our study shows that the CL program not only reduces the number of rehospitalizations and costs but increases HRQoL, resulting in a dominant ICER and ICUR. Further research is necessary to evaluate longer periods of time, different levels of care intensity, and perspectives of different healthcare stakeholders.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register DRKS00020424, 2020-06-18, retrospectively registered.
Fluctuating population density of the goby Lubricogobius exiguus during the breeding season with artificial nests at Oto Beach, Kagoshima, southern Japan
Authors: Oyama Takumi , Sunobe Tomoki , Dewa Shin-ichi , Sakai Yoichi
Published: November 2024

Cryptobenthic reef fish (CRF), which are benthic reef fish with body lengths of less than 50 mm, generally exhibit life history characteristics, such as a short lifespan, early maturation, high mortality, and microhabitat specialization. In this study, we investigated breeding season and population fluctuation patterns of a gobiid CRF fish Lubricogobius exiguus. At our field study site, the breeding season of L. exiguus extended from April to November. The population densities of L. exiguus fluctuated considerably, starting at low density early in the breeding season, increasing to a peak in the middle of the season, and stabilizing at a medium density by the end of the season. This seasonal pattern was influenced by two peaks in juvenile recruitment, and the adult population increased after these peaks. The fluctuating numbers of juveniles and adults suggest that some individuals may have a short post-settlement lifespan of less than 80 days.
Human rights engagement, stigma and attitudes towards mental health among Colombian social work and medical students
Authors: Agudelo-Hernández Felipe , Vélez-Botero Helena , Guapacha-Montoya Marcela
Published: November 2024

Human rights training in mental health professions is essential to reduce stigma and facilitate recovery processes. The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between engagement to human rights and stigma towards people with mental disorders, as well as attitudes towards mental illness in medical and social work students of a Latin American context. An analytical, cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 243 students in the last two years of study. Community Attitudes Towards the Mentally Ill (CAMI), Mental Illness Clinicians’ Attitude Scale (MICA), Human Rights Exposure in Social Work (HRXSW) and Human Rights Engagement in Social Work (HRESW) were used as instruments. To determine how the explanatory variables are related to the engagement to human rights (dependent variable) a binary logistic regression model was used. Correlations were found between the scales and their components. Economic condition, intersectional approach, authoritarianism, benevolence and mental health ideology explained 55.11% of the variance for commitment to the engagement of human rights. Some factors related to the stigma of mental disorders and the focus on human rights in future mental health professionals are highlighted that should be more visible in the training practices of these professions.
Identification crisis: a fauna-wide estimate of biodiversity expertise shows massive decline in a Central European country
Authors: Páll-Gergely Barna , Krell Frank-Thorsten , Ábrahám Levente , Bajomi Bálint , Balog Luca Eszter , Boda Pál , Csuzdi Csaba , Dányi László , Fehér Zoltán , Hornok Sándor , Horváth Adrienn , Kóbor Péter , Koczor Sándor , Kontschán Jenő , Kovács Péter , Kovács Tibor , Lukátsi Márk , Majoros Gábor , Murányi Dávid , Németh Tamás , Pernecker Bálint , Puskás Gellért , Rózsa Lajos , Soltész Zoltán , Szita Éva , Szűts Tamás , Tóth Balázs , Tőke Andrea , Vas Zoltán , Zsuga Katalin , Zsupos Vivien , Csabai Zoltán , Móra Arnold
Published: November 2024

Expertise in biodiversity research (taxonomy, faunistics, conservation with taxonomic background) appears to decline worldwide. While the “taxonomic impediment” is discussed extensively in the literature, much fewer papers focus on the identification crisis, i.e., the decreasing number of experts who can identify species, and the decline of species-based biodiversity research. As a test case to explore the gravity of the identification crisis, we chose Hungary, a Central European country with a strong history of comprehensive taxonomic expertise and research output. We set out to answer two main questions. (1) What proportion of the Hungarian fauna could currently be identified by Hungarian experts, and what factors determine which groups are covered; and (2) what are the trends of biodiversity research in Hungary, and what are the underlying reasons for these trends? We show that Hungary lacks active biodiversity experts for almost half of the nearly 36,000 animal species recorded in the country, and more than a quarter of the fauna have only one or two active experts available. We also show that faunistic research experienced a golden era between ca. 1990 and 2010. Since then, however, there has been a strong decline, with the number of active experts and published papers decreased to a level like that of the 1970s. Multiple factors are identified causing this trend, such as increased pressure to publish in high impact journals and increasing administrative duties of professional scientists. The next generation of biodiversity experts needs to be fluent in modern techniques and publication strategies but also maintain robust morphology-based knowledge to be equipped for identification tasks of difficult taxa. Despite being disadvantaged by exclusive application of citation-based evaluation, we do need more positions and focused grants for biodiversity researchers to maintain the country’s knowledge base and to avoid being increasingly dependent on—equally declining—foreign expertise.
Synergistic Epistasis and Systems Biology Approaches to Uncover a Pharmacogenomic Map Linked to Pain, Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulating Agents (PAIma) in a Healthy Cohort
Authors: Sharafshah Alireza , Motovali-Bashi Majid , Keshavarz Parvaneh , Blum Kenneth
Published: November 2024

The global public health addiction crisis has been stark, with over 932,400 deaths in the USA and Canada from opioid overdose since 1999–2020, surpassing the mortality rates at the top of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Both nations exhibit opioid consumption rates significantly above the norm for developed countries. Analgesic type of opioids present both therapeutic benefits and substantial health risks, necessitating balanced drug regulation, careful prescribing, and dedicated opioid stewardship. The role of the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) system (Enzymatic functions) in metabolizing opioids highlights the potential of genotype-guided analgesia. By integrating Pharmacogenomics (PGx), this approach aims to optimize pain management, enhance safety, and reduce addiction risks. This understanding prompted the utilization of multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) to explore a range of phenotypes including PGx and gene–gene interactions (GGI) in a healthy cohort, thereby personalizing pain management strategies. The study sampled 100 unrelated healthy Western Iranians and 100 individuals from the 1000 Genome Project. Pre-testing involved searching for PGx annotations (variants associated with drug-gene-diseases) related to pain sensitivity and inflammation using the PharmGKB database, which identified 128 relevant genes. A questionnaire helped select 100 participants who had never used potent opioids but also other psychoactive agents (e.g., nicotine, amphetamines, etc.) and disease-related drugs. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was then employed to analyze these genes in an Iranian cohort. Further analyses included MDR for identifying synergistic gene annotations and GGI for exploring complex gene interactions through the Visualization of Statistical Epistasis Networks (ViSEN). The study identified a Pain, Anti-Inflammatory, and Immunomodulating agents (PAIma) panel from the 128 genes, resulting in 55,590 annotations across 21 curated pathways. After filtering, 54 significant structural or regulatory variants were identified. This research also highlighted novel gene relationships involving the CYP3A5 gene, hsa-miR-355-5p, Paliperidone, and CYP2D6, which warrant further investigation. This study offers a novel pharmacogenetic framework that could potentially transform opioid prescribing practices to mitigate misuse and enhance personalized pain management. Further validation of these findings from multi countries and ethnic groups could guide clinicians in implementing DNA-based opioid prescribing, aligning treatment more closely with individual genetic profiles.

Graphical abstract
University autonomy is a predictor of English medium instruction in European higher education
Authors: Wingrove Peter , Zuaro Beatrice , Nao Marion , Yuksel Dogan , Littvay Levente , Hultgren Anna Kristina
Published: November 2024

Despite extensive research into English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) in higher education, few if any studies have explored the role of higher education autonomy in driving EMI. This paper tests the novel hypothesis that university autonomy—spearheaded across European higher education through neoliberally predicated ‘steering at a distance’ reforms—predicts EMI. The data are multilevel with higher education institutions (HEIs) nested inside education systems. The University Autonomy Scorecards (Pruvot & Estermann, 2017) operationalise university autonomy at the education-system level (n = 26) and measure four dimensions of autonomy: academic, financial, staffing, and organisational. We include ‘overall autonomy’ as the average. The European Tertiary Education Register provides HEI-level data (n = 1815), which we combine with a count of English-taught degree programmes (ETPs) to measure EMI, provided by Study Portals, the largest online portal of degree programmes. We conduct multilevel regression to analyse the relationships between autonomy and EMI. The results showed that overall autonomy predicts EMI in public universities (p = 0.002). Increasing overall autonomy by one point above the mean increases the likelihood of offering EMI by 9.5%. Academic, staffing, and organisational autonomy predict EMI in public universities, whereas financial autonomy does not. The first to quantify a relationship between university autonomy and EMI, this study offers new insights into how EMI comes about. By revealing a previously obscured interconnectedness between language shift and higher education governance, the study demonstrates the value added of an interdisciplinary approach and proposes a new line of inquiry for future research.
Flexibility of Gestural Production in Captive Groups of Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), Sumatran Orangutans (Pongo abelii), and Siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus)
Authors: Amici Federica , Liebal Katja
Published: November 2024

Across species, communication systems may differ in their levels of flexibility, but comparisons are challenging, because flexibility is not operationalized in a consistent way. In this study, we investigated different aspects of flexibility in the gestural communication systems of 7 groups of captive apes (N = 53), including 19 chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), 16 Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii), and 18 siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus). We operationalized flexibility in four different ways: (i) the use of one gesture type across several contexts (i.e., contextual flexibility), (ii) the use of many gesture types in the same context (i.e., pragmatic flexibility), (iii) the production of one gesture type with different limbs and/or toward different target locations (i.e., morphological flexibility), and (iv) the ability to combine different signals into a sequence in different orders (i.e., combinational flexibility). Comparisons across individuals and species revealed variation in contextual and morphological flexibility. In particular, contextual flexibility increased with age and was overall higher in chimpanzees than siamangs. Moreover, morphological flexibility increased with social integration and was highest in siamangs and lowest in orangutans. Overall, variation largely reflected differences in social experience and possibly in the socioecological characteristics of the species. Our findings suggest that contextual and morphological flexibility might be good candidates to study interindividual and interspecific variation in primate gestural production.
Breaking Down Barriers: Understanding Determinants of Exercise in Adults with ADHD Symptoms
Authors: Tucker Rory Luke , Williams Claire , Reed Phil
Published: November 2024

Autonomous/intrinsic exercise motivation has been found to be negatively linked with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptomatology, but it is unclear how this might be expressed in terms of different determinants of exercise (barriers/facilitators) to Physical Exercise (PE). Additionally, ADHD symptomatology has been found to be linked with increased Exercise Dependence (ED) risk, meaning the relationship between these determinants of exercise and ED should also be considered. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between PE, ADHD symptoms, barriers/determinants of exercise, and ED. 362 participants (77.07% female) completed an online survey measuring: PE level (IPAQ-L); ADHD symptomatology (ADHD-RS-IV); subclinical ADHD diagnosis (ADHD-RS-IV); ED (EDS-R) and determinants of exercise (DPAQ). Significant differences were found in the levels of barriers to PE (Coping Planning; Emotion; Beliefs about Capabilities; and Motivation) between subclinical and Non-ADHD participants, with subclinical ADHD participants experiencing more. Additionally, significant positive correlations were observed between determinants of exercise and ED (Motivation; Beliefs about Capabilities; Skills; Emotion; Action Planning; Coping Planning; Goal Conflict; Social). Subclinical ADHD diagnosis did not significantly moderate the relationship between any of the determinants of exercise and PE level. These findings suggest that individuals with subclinical ADHD experience greater levels of certain barriers to exercise, which may need to be overcome or targeted in any potential PE based intervention. However, since some of these barriers were linked with ED risk, caution should be exercised to avoid increasing ED rates further.
Correction to: Trajectories of Affine Control Systems and Geodesics of a Spacetime with a Causal Killing Vector Field
Authors: Bartolo Rossella , Caponio Erasmo
Published: November 2024

We correct a mistake in Bartolo, R., Caponio, E. “Trajectories of Affine Control Systems and Geodesics of a Spacetime with a Causal Killing Vector Field”. J Dyn Control Syst 29, 1409-1424
(2023)
Is it possible to generate accurate 3D point clouds with UAS-LIDAR and UAS-RGB photogrammetry without GCPs? A case study on a beach and rocky cliff
Authors: Gómez-Gutiérrez Álvaro , Sánchez-Fernández Manuel , de Sanjosé-Blasco José Juan , Gudino-Elizondo Napoleón , Lavado-Contador Francisco
Published: November 2024

Context

Recently, Unoccupied Aerial Systems (UAS) with photographic or Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensors have incorporated on-board survey-grade Global Navigation Satellite Systems that allow the direct georeferencing of the resulting datasets without Ground Control Points either in Real-Time (RTK) or Post-Processing Kinematic (PPK) modes. These approaches can be useful in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas. However, the resulting 3D models have not been widely tested, as previous studies tend to evaluate only a few points and conclude that systematic errors can be found.

Objectives

We test the absolute positional accuracy of point clouds produced using UAS with direct-georeferencing systems.

Methods

We test the accuracy and characteristics of point clouds produced using a UAS-LIDAR (with PPK) and a UAS-RGB (Structure-from-Motion or SfM photogrammetry with RTK and PPK) in a challenging environment: a coastline with a composite beach and cliff. The resulting models of each processing were tested using as a benchmark a point cloud surveyed simultaneously by a Terrestrial Laser Scanner.

Results

The UAS-LIDAR produced the most accurate point cloud, with homogeneous cover and no noise. The systematic bias previously observed in the UAS-RGB RTK approaches are minimized using oblique images. The accuracy observed across the different surveyed landforms varied significantly.

Conclusions

The UAS-LIDAR and UAS-RGB with PPK produced unbiased point clouds, being the latter the most cost-effective method. For the other direct georeferencing systems/approaches, the acquisition of GCP or the co-registration of the resulting point cloud is still necessary.
Identification of meaningful individual-level change thresholds for worsening on the patient-reported outcomes version of the common terminology criteria for adverse events (PRO-CTCAE®)
Authors: Lee Minji K. , Mitchell Sandra A. , Basch Ethan , Mazza Gina L. , Langlais Blake T. , Thanarajasingam Gita , Ginos Brenda F. , Rogak Lauren , Meek Eric A. , Jansen Jennifer , Deal Allison M. , Carr Philip , Blinder Victoria S. , Jonsson Mattias , Mody Gita N. , Mendoza Tito R. , Bennett Antonia V. , Schrag Deborah , Dueck Amylou C.
Published: November 2024

Background

We derived meaningful individual-level change thresholds for worsening in selected patient-reported outcomes version of the common terminology criteria for adverse events (PRO-CTCAE®) items and their composite scores.

Methods

We used two data sources, the PRO-TECT trial (Alliance AFT-39) that collected PRO-CTCAE data from adults with advanced cancer at 26 United States (U.S.) community oncology practices and the PRO-CTCAE validation study that collected PRO-CTCAE data from adults undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy at nine U.S. cancer centers or community oncology practices. Both studies administered selected PRO-CTCAE items and EORTC QLQ-C30 scales. Conceptually, relevant QLQ-C30 domains were used as anchors to estimate meaningful change thresholds for deterioration in corresponding PRO-CTCAE items and their composite scores. Items or composites with ǀρǀ ≥ 0.30 correlation with QLQ-C30 scales were included. Changes in PRO-CTCAE scores and composites were estimated for patients who met or exceeded a 10-point deterioration on the corresponding QLQ-C30 scale. Change scores were computed between baseline and the 3-month timepoint in PRO-TECT, and in the PRO-CTCAE validation study between baseline and a single follow-up visit that occurred between 1 and 7 weeks later. For each PRO-CTCAE item, change scores could range from − 4 to 4; for a composite, change scores could range from − 3 to 3.

Results

Change scores in QLQ-C30 and PRO-CTCAE were available in 406 and 792 patients in PRO-TECT and the validation study, respectively. Across QLQ-C30 scales, the proportion of patients with a 10-point or greater worsening on QLQ-C30 ranged from 15 to 30% in the PRO-TECT data and 13% to 34% in the validation data. Across PRO-CTCAE items, anchor-based meaningful change estimates for deterioration ranged from 0.05 to 0.30 (mean 0.19) in the PRO-TECT data and from 0.19 to 0.53 (mean 0.36) in the validation data. For composites, they ranged from 0.06 to 0.27 (mean 0.17) in the PRO-TECT data and 0.22 to 0.51 (mean 0.37) in the validation data.

Conclusion

In both datasets, the minimal meaningful individual-level change threshold for worsening was one point for all items and composite scores.

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03249090 (AFT-39), NCT02158637 (MC1091)
Evaluation of Cadmium, Lead, Chromium, and Nickel Content in Various Types of Nuts: Almonds, Cashews, Hazelnuts, Peanuts, and Walnuts – Health Risk of Polish Consumers
Authors: Ćwieląg-Drabek Małgorzata , Nieć-Leśniak Joanna , Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka , Piekut Agata , Kiciak Agata , Dziubanek Grzegorz , Szczepańska Elżbieta
Published: November 2024

World production and consumption of nuts continue to rise year on year. Nuts, due to their high nutrient content, are becoming increasingly popular among consumers. A potential health risk may result from the consumption of nuts contaminated with metallic trace elements like cadmium or lead. In this research, we measured the content of Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni in various edible nuts. All elements were detected using the electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry analytical technique (ETAAS). The study material comprised 69 nut samples including almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, peanuts, and walnuts available on the Polish market. Indicators such as the hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) were used to assess the health risk of consumers. The concentrations of elements in all analyzed samples of nuts were as follows: Cd: peanuts > almonds > hazelnuts > walnuts > cashews, Pb: peanuts > almonds > hazelnuts > walnuts > cashews, Ni: cashews > peanuts > walnuts > hazelnuts > almonds, Cr: almonds > cashews & hazelnuts > peanuts > walnuts. Health risk indicators estimated for consumers whose diet is rich in nuts, in which metallic trace elements were recorded, indicate that an unacceptable impact may occur, and the risk of negative health effects (non-cancer) will be moderate to high.
A Narrative Review of the Digital Equity Gap of Apps for Cigarette Smoking Cessation for Persons Living in the Hispanosphere
Authors: Vilardaga Roger , Stoute Charlotte , Rubenstein Dana , Akingbule Oluwatosin , Gray Madeline
Published: November 2024

Purpose of Review

The Hispanosphere is a vast region of the world that has received little attention in the digital health literature. No study to date has examined the availability and quality of publicly available mobile applications (apps) for cigarette smoking cessation in this region. Three coders utilized the American Psychiatry Association (APA)’s Brief App Evaluation Model Screener (Brief-AEM Screener) to evaluate the quality of the label and public-facing screens of smoking cessation apps in Spanish. Availability of apps in the Hispanosphere was compared to availability of apps in the Anglosphere.

Recent Findings

We identified and reviewed 19 apps in Spanish in Google Play. The median score using the Brief-AEM Screener was 63 out of 100 suggesting generally acceptable app quality and features according to the quality standards for digital health tools proposed by the APA. However, we found (1) notable inaccurate and misleading labelling claims, (2) poor grammar or incomplete translations, and (3) a lack of cultural and linguistic adaptation to countries in the Hispanosphere. Our comparison of smoking cessation apps between the Hispanosphere and the Anglosphere suggested that there is a large digital equity gap between these two regions, with a four to sevenfold gap in app availability.

There is a relative shortage of quality and quantity of digital health apps for smoking cessation in the Hispanosphere. To ensure the cultural appropriateness of those digital interventions, it is essential that developers of digital health tools establish community partners in the region prior to developing apps for smoking cessation.
Digital artifacts in mathematics education: how can we study the learning processes they promote?
Authors: Baccaglini-Frank Anna , Carotenuto Gemma , Funghi Silvia , Lisarelli Giulia , Miragliotta Elisa
Published: November 2024

This contribution is an elaboration of what was presented by the first author at her invited conference "Digital Artifacts in Mathematics Education" held in September 2023 at the XXII Congress of the Italian Mathematical Union. The aim of the paper is to present to those who are less familiar with qualitative research in Mathematics Education fundamental aspects to consider when studying mathematics learning mediated by digital artifacts. Three examples are presented that show glimpses of mathematical learning mediated by digital artifacts; we discuss how such student learning processes can be captured through adaptations of the Theory of Semiotic Mediation. In the discussion of the three examples, we also highlight the fundamental role played by task design and by the educator in promoting the students’ mathematics learning.
Advancing Our Understanding of Eddy-driven Jet Stream Responses to Climate Change – A Roadmap
Authors: Ossó Albert , Bladé Ileana , Karpechko Alexey , Li Camille , Maraun Douglas , Romppainen-Martius Olivia , Shaffrey Len , Voigt Aiko , Woollings Tim , Zappa Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Purpose of Review

Extratropical jets and associated storm tracks significantly influence weather and regional climate across various timescales. Understanding jet responses to climate change is essential for reliable regional climate projections. This review serves two main purposes: (1) to provide an accessible overview of extratropical jet dynamics and a comprehensive examination of current challenges and uncertainties in predicting jet responses to greenhouse gas increases and (2) to suggest innovative experiments to advance our understanding of these responses.

Recent Findings

While successive generations of climate model ensembles consistently project a mean poleward shift of the midlatitude zonal-mean maximum winds, there remains considerable intermodel spread and large uncertainty across seasonal and regional jet responses. Of particular note is our limited understanding of how these jets respond to the intricate interplay of multiple concurrent drivers, such as the strong warming in polar and tropical regions, and the relative importance of each factor. Furthermore, the difficulty of simulating processes requiring high resolution, such as those linked to sharp sea surface temperature gradients or diabatic effects related to tropical convection and extratropical cyclones, has historically hindered progress.

We advocate for a collaborative effort to enhance our understanding of the jet stream response to climate change. We propose a series of new experiments that take advantage of recent advances in computing power and modelling capabilities to better resolve small-scale processes such as convective circulations, which we consider essential for a good representation of jet dynamics.
Digital Transformation and Discourses of Change Commodify Finnish Public Education
Authors: Lempinen Sonia , Kiesi Iida , Nivanaho Nina , Seppänen Piia
Published: November 2024

Ecosystemic cooperation among the state, municipalities, and commercial actors is evident in the public education of Finland. The edu-ecosystems can include firm interdependences, value creation, co-specialisation, and co-evolution with an aim to sell products and services to the global market as well as to open up markets in a particular country. Here, we examine the discourses through which commercial actors promote the change or transformation of public education. With support from the state, commercial organisations—whether for-profit, non-profit or private or state-run—have a strong agenda to change ‘old-fashioned’ education into one that better serves the twenty-first century work life. The state and municipalities are gatekeeping the businessing around education, but commercial actors would prefer more opportunities to cooperate with public education institutions. It is noteworthy that commercial actors are gaining greater access to public education policymaking through ecosystems, and hence, have greater influence in redefining and commodifying education. Yet, there is a lack of public conversation about the commodification of public education in Finland.
The problem of educational choice in senior secondary education: the ACT as a case study
Authors: O’Connor Kate , Roberts Philip , Filer Emma , Feodoroff Kristofer
Published: November 2024

How students select subjects and pathways in senior secondary education and beyond has long been regarded as a significant social justice issue as a result of contention regarding the value of more or less academic and vocational options. This paper examines these issues through a discussion of the notion of educational choice and the history of senior secondary reform in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), an educational system established in the 1970s with the express purpose of enhancing educational equity through supporting student choice and flexibility through school-based curriculum and assessment. The paper highlights the complexity of questions subsumed under the umbrella of educational choice, which encompass not only the reproduction of inequality but also student agency and self-making and intersect with debates about equity and curriculum form. It shows how the intent of the ACT system to ensure equally valued subject choices in schooling has since its inception existed in constant tension with a parallel emphasis on university pathways and that the system has over time evolved from one dedicated to the idea of curriculum diversity and responding to individual and community needs to one in which centralisation and standardisation are beginning to take precedence. This history raises important questions about the equity implications of centralising and decentralising curriculum forms and what they enable and constrain in shaping young people’s futures.
Changing Rainfall Patterns in the Northeastern South Kivu Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Detailed Analysis Using CHIRPS Rainfall Data (1981–2023)
Authors: Ahana Bayongwa Samuel , Posite Vithundwa Richard , Maouly Djessy Karl , Abdelbaki Cherifa , Kantoush Sameh A. , Nguyen Binh Quang , Kumar Navneet
Published: November 2024

Understanding changes in rainfall patterns is vital for effective water resource management and agricultural planning in climate-sensitive regions. In Northeastern South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, limited knowledge of rainfall dynamics poses challenges for local climate assessments. This study analyzed rainfall patterns using the Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) dataset from 1981 to 2023 to fill this knowledge gap. The findings revealed significant spatial and temporal changes in rainfall across the regions of Kabare, Bukavu, Kalehe, and Idjwi. Mean annual rainfall ranged from 1136.92 mm to 2048.85 mm, with coefficients of variation between 8.23% and 8.45%. Monthly rainfall fluctuations were substantial, ranging from 16 to 56.35%. Standardized rainfall anomalies indicated a shift from predominantly wet conditions in the 1980s to drier conditions in later decades, with over half the years from 1990 to 2023 recording below-average rainfall. Mann-Kendall trend analysis, supported by Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA), confirmed significant decreases in annual rainfall, with rates between − 3.53 to -5.72 mm/year. Additionally, rainfall intensity indices highlighted a decline in total annual precipitation, suggested fewer extreme events. Spatial variability was observed, with regions like Kalehe and Bukavu showed higher values for indices such as R95P and RX1day compared to Kabare and Idjwi. These results underscored the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate water scarcity and manage changing rainfall patterns in the region.
Undular Bore Due to a Low Pressure or Bottom Trough Moving at the Critical Speed
Authors: Grue John
Published: November 2024

A low pressure or bottom obstacle of negative displacement moves at the critical speed along a fluid layer of constant depth. The disturbance causes a depression of the surface at its forward position. The nonlinear dynamics generates a group of short waves attached to the disturbance. The number of two to six crests have a wavelength of 5.7–12 times the water depth. The wave height increases with the decreasing wavelength. The waves of the group do not follow the dispersion properties of cnoidal waves or Stokes waves. The group is rather characterised as an undular bore. The bore develops during a travel distance of 7–15 times the length of the disturbance. Its front eventually moves ahead of the driving disturbance where the leading crest develops into a solitary wave. A short disturbance is more powerful, but generates fewer crests compared to a long one. Comparison to the generation phase of upstream waves due to a high pressure (ship) or a bottom elevation shows that the wavelength in the two cases is approximately equal.
A Dramaturgical Position to Reveal the Affect of Space on Discriminatory Judgments of Behaviour
Authors: Tooley Jack
Published: November 2024

Built environment disciplines investigate how spaces affect discriminatory judgments between community members through a body of knowledge called discriminatory design. Spatial-discriminatory events occur in various ways, however, they are more potently identified and studied in relation to the static attributes of people and space; how people look, or where they are in relation to space. This paper answers calls from scholars for an alternative position to investigate how spaces affect judgments of people’s behaviour. The paper builds and rationalises a theoretical hypothesis formed through Goffman’s dramaturgy which is tested and refined through a survey-experiment. The study offers an alternative theoretical position for researchers that aim to bring the behavioural dimension of spatial discrimination into focus.
From Globalization to Isolation: Exposure to the 2008 Financial Crisis and Three Dimensions of Liberal Attitudes in a Swedish Twin Design
Authors: Brännlund Anton , Ahlskog Rafael
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the link between non-liberal attitudes and adverse exposure to market disturbances during the 2008 global financial crisis, drawing from the premise that anti-liberal sentiments among Western voters stem from economic distress. We delve into three facets of liberal ideology in a Swedish sample: economic liberalism, liberal multiculturalism and liberal internationalism. Using variation in crisis exposure within identical twin pairs, comprehensive longitudinal economic data and detailed survey responses, we find no significant shift in economic or multicultural liberal attitudes with different crisis exposures. However, exposure to increased unemployment risk significantly lowered support for liberal internationalism, increasing scepticism towards global governance and multilateral cooperation.
Teichmüller displacement theorem on Gromov hyperbolic spaces
Authors: Zhou Qingshan , Ponnusamy Saminathan , Luo Qianghua
Published: November 2024

Given a Gromov hyperbolic domain $G\subsetneq \mathbb{R}^n$ with uniformly perfect Gromov boundary, Zhou and Rasila recently proved that for all quasiconformal homeomorphisms $\psi\colon G\to G$ with identity value on the Gromov boundary, the quasihyperbolic displacement $k_G(x,\psi(x))$ for all $x\in G$ is bounded above. In this paper, we generalize this result and establish Teichmüller displacement theorem for quasi-isometries of Gromov hyperbolic spaces in a quantitative way. As applications, we obtain its connections to bilipschitz extensions of certain Gromov hyperbolic spaces.
Selection indexes in terms of functional features in modern dairy cattle breeding in Europe
Authors: Wrzecińska Marcjanna , Czerniawska-Piątkowska Ewa , Mylostyvyi Roman , Chernenko Оleksandr , Araújo José Pedro , Kowalczyk Alicja , Kowalewska Inga , Gączarzewicz Dariusz , Stefaniak Wiktoria , Rzewucka-Wójcik Edyta
Published: November 2024

The increase in demand for dairy products requires continued progress in dairy farming for a sustainable supply. Europe, known as the world's leading milk producer, plays a key role in meeting this growing demand. Modern dairy farming has moved beyond its historical focus on milk yield and now focuses on functional traits such as udder health, fertility and calf survival. As a result, selection indicators have become essential tools, combining multiple attributes to support selective decisions. However, these rates show considerable variability across countries, reflecting their distinct breeding goals. Poland's production and functionality (PF) Index emphasizes production and functional traits to enhance dairy cattle. Portugal uses the total economic merit (M€T) and total performance index (IPT) for a broader assessment covering a wider range of traits. Ukraine is transitioning towards a more comprehensive breeding system incorporating stress tolerance and longevity. Factors such as climate change and the need for sustainable practices drive this evolution, underscoring the economic importance of traits beyond mere production. Future trends may include features such as feed efficiency, methane emissions reduction and stress resistance. Diverse breeding objectives across countries lead to different selection index constructions, essential for effective selection, ranking and breeding of superior individuals. This comprehensive review offers insight into constantly evolving dairy farming strategies in Europe, with a focus on Poland, Portugal and Ukraine, while highlighting the key role of functional traits in shaping the future of dairy farming.