bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic predictability and activity-location contexts in human mobility
Authors: Poudyal Bibandhan , Pacheco Diogo , Oliveira Marcos , Chen Zexun , Barbosa Hugo S. , Menezes Ronaldo , Ghoshal Gourab
Published: September 2024

Human travelling behaviours are markedly regular, to a large extent predictable, and mostly driven by biological necessities and social constructs. Not surprisingly, such predictability is influenced by an array of factors ranging in scale from individual preferences and choices, through social groups and households, all the way to the global scale, such as mobility restrictions in response to external shocks such as pandemics. In this work, we explore how temporal, activity and location variations in individual-level mobility—referred to as
predictability states
—carry a large degree of information regarding the nature of mobility regularities at the population level. Our findings indicate the existence of contextual and activity signatures in predictability states, suggesting the potential for a more nuanced approach to estimating both short-term and higher-order mobility predictions. The existence of location contexts, in particular, serves as a parsimonious estimator for predictability patterns even in the case of low resolution and missing data.
Stigmergy: from mathematical modelling to control
Authors: Boldini Alain , Civitella Martina , Porfiri Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Stigmergy, the indirect communication between agents of a swarm through dynamic environmental modifications, is a fundamental self-organization mechanism of animal swarms. Engineers have drawn inspiration from stigmergy to establish strategies for the coordination of swarms of robots and of mixed societies of robots and animals. Currently, all models of stigmergy are algorithmic, in the form of behavioural rules implemented at an individual level. A critical challenge for the understanding of stigmergic behaviour and translation of stigmergy to engineering is the lack of a holistic approach to determine which modifications of the environment are necessary to achieve desired behaviours for the swarm. Here, we propose a mathematical framework that rigorously describes the relationship between environmental modifications and swarm behaviour. Building on recent strides in continuification techniques, we model the swarm and environmental modifications as continua. This approach allows us to design the environmental modifications required for the swarm to behave as desired. Through analytical derivations and numerical simulations of one- and two-dimensional examples, we show that our framework yields the distribution of traces required to achieve a desired formation. Such an approach provides an adaptable framework for different implementation platforms, from robotic swarms to mixed societies of robots and animals.
Romantic Partners with Matching Relationship Satisfaction Showed Greater Interpersonal Neural Synchrony When Co-viewing Emotive Videos: An Exploratory fNIRS Hyperscanning Study
Authors: Heng Wen Xiu , Ng Li Ying , Goh Zen Ziyi , Esposito Gianluca , Azhari Atiqah
Published: September 2024

Emotion attunement refers to emotional co-regulation in an interpersonal relationship. Attunement can manifest as synchrony at the neurophysiological level, where partners exhibit similar brain responses to each other, known as interpersonal neural synchrony. However, in adult romantic relationships, the level of satisfaction that partners experience in a relationship may differ from each other, thus the extent of emotion attunement may differ according to the perceived relationship quality. Thus far, no study has examined how difference in relationship satisfaction between partners influence interpersonal neural synchrony. This exploratory study on 17 heterosexual Singaporean Chinese non-married couples investigated whether romantic partners’ relationship satisfaction difference influenced the extent of interpersonal neural synchrony within a couple when sharing an emotive experience. Each couple wore an fNIRS cap, to measure brain activity in their prefrontal cortex (PFC), while co-viewing seven videos intended to evoke positive, negative or neutral emotions. We found preliminary evidence that differences in self-reported relationship satisfaction between romantic partners modulated interpersonal neural synchrony in the frontal right cluster of the PFC involved in social decision-making. This finding suggested that couples in which partners reported closer matching of relationship satisfaction displayed greater interpersonal neural synchrony, possibly due to more similar social cognitive processes when viewing emotive videos together. Further studies are recommended to replicate the findings with larger and more diverse samples.
First record of the seagrassHalophila stipulacea(Forskkal) Ascherson in the waters of the continental United States (Key Biscayne, Florida)
Authors: Campbell Justin E. , Allen Aarin-Conrad , Sattelberger Danielle C. , White Matthew D. , Fourqurean James
Published: September 2024

The first record ofHalophila stipulaceais reported for the continental waters of the United States. In August 2024, a small meadow was identified inside Crandon Marina on Key Biscayne, Florida, USA. Following surveys have revealed thatH. stipulaceahas spread to adjacent areas immediately outside of the marina, often growing either in close proximity to, or interspersed with, the native seagrassesThalassia testudinum, Syringodium filiforme, andHalodule wrightii. This serves as an initial report and extends the geographic scope of this introduced species in the Western Atlantic basin.
Multisensory approach in Mental Imagery: ALE meta-analyses comparing Motor, Visual and Auditory Imagery
Authors: Van Caenegem Elise E , Moreno-Verdú Marcos , Waltzing Baptiste M , Hamoline Gautier , McAteer Siobhan M , Lennart Frahm , Hardwick Robert M
Published: September 2024

Mental Imagery is a topic of longstanding and widespread scientific interest. Individual studies have typically focused on a single modality (e.g. Motor, Visual, Auditory) of Mental Imagery. Relatively little work has considered directly comparing and contrasting the brain networks associated with these different modalities of Imagery. The present study integrates data from 439 neuroimaging experiments to identify both modality-specific and shared neural networks involved in Mental Imagery. Comparing the networks involved in Motor, Visual, and Auditory Imagery identified a pattern whereby each form of Imagery preferentially recruited ‘higher level’ associative brain regions involved in the associated ‘real’ experience. Results also indicate significant overlap in a left-lateralized network including the pre-supplementary motor area, ventral premotor cortex and inferior parietal lobule. This pattern of results supports the existence of a ‘core’ network that supports the attentional, spatial, and decision-making demands of Mental Imagery. Together these results offer new insights into the brain networks underlying human imagination.

Highlights

Meta-Analyses of Motor, Visual, and Auditory modalities of Imagery were compared

Each modality recruited high level areas related to associated real-life experience

A ‘core’ network of pre-SMA, PMv and IPL were recruited by all imagery modalities

Results emphasize attentional, spatial, & executive aspects of Mental Imagery
Nucleon electric and magnetic polarizabilities in holographic QCD
Authors: Castellani Federico
Published: September 2024

We analyze the resonance contributions to the generalized Baldin sum rule, namely the sum of the generalized electric and magnetic nucleon polarizabilities αE(Q2) and βM(Q2), within the holographic QCD model by Witten, Sakai, and Sugimoto (WSS). In particular, we account for the contributions from the first low-lying nucleon resonances with spin-1/2 and spin-3/2 and both parities. After having extrapolated the WSS model parameters to fit experimental data on baryonic observables, we compare our findings with alternative predictions in literature, finding a qualitative agreement with all of them. Moreover, at least for the proton case, where data are available, our results are in qualitative accordance with resonance contributions extracted from experimental nucleon-resonance helicity amplitudes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Level-set percolation of Gaussian random fields on complex networks
Authors: Kühn Reimer
Published: September 2024

We provide an explicit solution of the problem of level-set percolation for multivariate Gaussians defined in terms of weighted graph Laplacians on complex networks. The solution requires an analysis of the heterogeneous microstructure of the percolation problem, i.e., a self-consistent determination of locally varying percolation probabilities. This is achieved using a cavity or message passing approach. It can be evaluated, both for single large instances of locally treelike graphs, and in the thermodynamic limit of random graphs of finite mean degree in the configuration model class.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
3D electron diffraction studies of synthetic rhabdophane (DyPO4·nH2O)
Authors: Duran Ercin C. , Rafiuddin Mohamed Ruwaid , Shen Yazhou , Hunt Simon A. , Mir Anamul Haq , Eggeman Alexander S.
Published: September 2024

In this study, we report the results of continuous rotation electron diffraction studies of single DyPO4·nH2O (rhabdophane) nanocrystals. The diffraction patterns can be fit to a trigonal lattice (P3121) with lattice parameters a = 7.019 (5) and c = 6.417 (5) Å. However, there is also a set of diffuse background scattering features present that are associated with a disordered superstructure that is double these lattice parameters and fits with an arrangement of water molecules present in the structure pore. Pair distribution function (PDF) maps based on the diffuse background allowed the extent of the water correlation to be estimated, with 2–3 nm correlation along the c axis and ∼5 nm along the a/b axis.
2D coordination polymers of cadmium(II) and zinc(II) derived from N,N′-bis(glycinyl)pyromellitic diimide: microwave-assisted synthesis, structures, spectroscopic properties and influence of metal-ion size
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Zhao Lei , Yu Hai-Yan , Zhang Hong-Tao
Published: September 2024

Two new two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymers (CPs), namely, poly[diaqua[μ4-2,2′-(1,3,5,7-tetraoxo-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-f]isoindole-2,6-diyl)diacetato-κ4
O:O′:O′′:O′′′]cadmium(II)], [Cd(C14H6N2O8)(H2O)2]
n
(1), and poly[[tetraaqua[μ4-2,2′-(1,3,5,7-tetraoxo-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-f]isoindole-2,6-diyl)diacetato-κ4
O:O′:O′′:O′′′][μ2-2,2′-(1,3,5,7-tetraoxo-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-f]isoindole-2,6-diyl)diacetato-κ2
O:O′]dizinc(II)] dihydrate], {[Zn(C14H6N2O8(H2O)2]·H2O}
n
(2), have been synthesized by the microwave-irradiated reaction of Cd(CH3COO)2·2H2O and Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O, respectively, with N,N′-bis(glycinyl)pyromellitic diimide {BGPD, namely, 2,2′-(1,3,5,7-tetraoxo-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-f]isoindole-2,6-diyl)diacetic acid, H2
L}. In the crystal structure of 1, the CdII ion is six-coordinated by four carboxylate O atoms from four symmetry-related L
2− dianions and two coordinated water molecules, furnishing an octahedral coordination geometry. The bridging L
2− dianion links four symmetry-related CdII cations into a 2D layer-like structure with a 3,4-connected bex topology. In the crystal structure of 2, the ZnII ion is five-coordinated by three carboxylate O atoms from three different L
2− dianions and two coordination water molecules, furnishing a trigonal bipyramidal coordination geometry. Two crystallographically independent ligands serve as μ4- and μ2-bridges, respectively, to connect the ZnII ions, thereby forming a 2D layer with a 3,3-connected hcb topology. Crystal structure analysis reveals the presence of n→π* interactions between two carbonyl groups of the pyromellitic diimide moieties in 1 and 2. CP 1 exhibits an enhanced fluorescence emission compared with free H2
L. The framework of 2 decomposes from 720 K, indicating its high thermal stability. A comparative analysis of a series of structures based on the BGPD ligand indicates that the metal-ion size has a great influence on the connection modes of the metal ions due to different steric effects, which, in turn, affects the structures of the SBUs (secondary building units) and frameworks.
Fuzzy synthesis analysis of social network risk factors in supply chains of African megaprojects
Authors: Kadan Richard , Wium Jan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Megaproject supply chains involve multiple layers of stakeholders, leading to complex relationships and risks. The role of social interactions within these networks is unexplored. Therefore, an analysis of construction supply chain risk management from the perspective of social networks is essential to identify related stakeholders, their relationships and the social network risk factors.

Design/methodology/approach

About 65 risk factors, identified from literature and interviews, informed the development of a questionnaire for the study. Online questionnaires administered in Ghana and South Africa produced 120 valid responses. Feedback from the responses was ranked and assessed to determine the overall social network risk levels using the Normalised Mean and Fuzzy synthesis analysis methods.

Findings

About 24 risk factors were identified and classified into six groups: Client/Consultant-related, Community-related, Government-related, Industry Perception-related, Supplier-related and Stakeholder Opportunism. The top five social network risks identified include bribery, supplier monopoly, incomplete design teams, poor communication and lack of collaboration.

Practical implications

The study provides detailed evaluations of social network risks in Africa, and the findings will help in developing strategies to mitigate supply chain disruptions caused by these challenges.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on supply chain risk management by offering context-specific insights into the social network perspective of megaprojects in Africa, which differs from those in developed countries.
Monetary and fiscal policies in Brazil and the behavioral approach
Authors: Pereira Freitas Raphael José
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to elucidate the dynamics of monetary and fiscal policy interactions in Brazil, focusing on the impacts of positive shocks in government consumption and interest rates. By comparing rational and behavioral agent responses, it clarifies how these frameworks influence gross domestic product (GDP), inflation, private and government consumption and nominal interest rates.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a new Keynesian dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model with Bayesian estimation from 2000Q1 to 2022Q4, capturing rational and behavioral behaviors with adjustments for Brazilian economic idiosyncrasies. Impulse response functions (IRF) assess the dynamic effects of policy shocks, providing a comparative analysis of the two frameworks.

Findings

Behavioral agents show greater initial sensitivity to policy shocks, causing more pronounced fluctuations in GDP, inflation and private consumption compared to rational agents. Over time, the behavioral approach leads to a more robust recovery, while the rational approach results in a quicker return to equilibrium but less pronounced long-term recovery. The study also finds fiscal policy can partially offset the negative impacts of monetary tightening, with a more delayed effect in the behavioral model.

Originality/value

This paper provides insights into the interplay between monetary and fiscal policies under different agent expectations, emphasizing the importance of incorporating behavioral elements into macroeconomic models to better capture policy dynamics in emerging markets.
Anchoring decisions: the role of decoy pricing in consumer choices
Authors: Bujisic Milos , Bujisic Vanja , Parsa Haragopal , Bilgihan Anil , Li Keyin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Hospitality firms aim to increase their profits by implementing a variety of marketing activities, including using decoy pricing to provide alternative choices for consumers. Decoys are relatively higher-priced offerings that signal lower value than the other offerings in the consideration set. The purpose of this research is to investigate the influence of decoy pricing on consumer choices across various contexts in the foodservice and hotel industries.

Design/methodology/approach

Across the pilot and four main studies, the current research employs a sequential exploratory mixed-method design to investigate the influence of decoy pricing in the foodservice and lodging industries. The qualitative part of this research was based on two focus groups, followed by a pilot study and four main study experiments.

Findings

The results show that decoy pricing escalates consumers’ choices of more expensive product bundles in both restaurant and hotel cancellation policy contexts. However, decoy pricing does not increase the selection of more expensive hotel product bundles.

Originality/value

While decoy pricing has been utilized as an effective revenue maximization strategy for product placement in retail stores, less is known about how promotional advertisements with decoy offers influence hotel and restaurant customers to choose more costly options. Specifically, this is the first study that explores whether decoy pricing and product/service bundling can encourage customers to select more expensive offers in hotel and restaurant contexts, considering the types of hospitality bundles that may limit this effect.
Rethinking holistic sustainable growth of Malaysian SMEs: a University Helix-Quadruple Bottom Line perspective
Authors: Islam Ariful , Wahab Sazali Abd , Tehseen Shehnaz
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are critical for economic development and meeting the sustainable development goals (SDGs); however, many struggle to survive in the long term. So, this study aims to present a model for sustainable growth that bridges the gap between desired growth and managerial competencies. By configuring university helix-induced crowdfunding and opportunity recognition competencies with industry helix-driven innovation, the study encourages a quadruple bottom line (QBL) strategy, helping SMEs attain competitiveness for sustainable growth.

Design/methodology/approach

This pilot study used a sequential mixed methods design and adhered to the pragmatic research paradigm. A survey of 52 SCORE-listed manufacturers yielded quantitative data, complemented by qualitative interviews with 7 SME decision makers. This study used NVivo 10 and SmartPLS 4.0 for the necessary analysis. In addition, an effective triangulation strategy has been implemented to explain causation among selected variables.

Findings

The findings show that opportunity recognition and crowdfunding are positively associated with SMEs’ ability to grow in a sustainable manner and that exploitative and explorative innovation also mediate those relationships. The qualitative part highlighted key insights for successfully applying this model in Malaysian SMEs. The interview results also suggest that corporate spirituality might help SMEs adopt sustainability-focused practices.

Research limitations/implications

More research is required regarding both the methods and results of this pilot study. Although conducting a pilot study increases the likelihood of success in the main study, it does not ensure it.

Practical implications

This study equips Malaysian SMEs with a roadmap for achieving sustainable growth. The obtained findings indicate that Malaysian SMEs that develop strong crowdfunding and opportunity recognition competencies are more likely to achieve innovation-focused long-term survival. In addition, incorporating corporate spirituality can enhance their economic, social and environmental performance.

Social implications

By supporting more innovation in SMEs, which can improve sustainability-oriented successes and support a healthy economic system, these findings may have a beneficial social change impact. The concept may also act as the foundation for SMEs’ promotion of the SDGs.

Originality/value

The study uniquely offers a holistic growth model for Malaysian SMEs founded on the helix-QBL understanding that explains a firm’s sustainability-focused competitive advantage.
The paradoxical nature of greening transportation: an analysis of tensions in buyer–supplier dyads
Authors: Björklund Maria , Forslund Helena , Ülgen Veronica Svensson
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Contradictory sustainability priorities and perspectives among supply chain actors in greening transportation can be challenging. Several of these contradictions can be described as paradoxes (i.e. interests that are logical in themselves, but become irrational when perceived together). The aim of this study is to increase the understanding of paradoxical tensions hampering the greening of transportation in transport buyer–supplier dyads.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method targeting greening transportation in two transport buyer–supplier dyads was applied, followed by an analysis with a point-of-departure in paradox theory.

Findings

Tensions related to performing, belonging, learning and organizing paradoxes in greening transportation were identified. These tensions arise as a consequence of actions, perspectives and other tensions, within three identified loci in individual companies and in dyads.

Research limitations/implications

By identifying examples of tensions through the lens of paradoxes in a particular setting, this study provides an increased understanding of why the transition toward green transportation goes slow, despite the high ambitions of involved actors. The suggested framework provides a novel contribution to the literature that further increases the understanding of tensions, by providing additional insights into where tensions arise and how actions, perspectives and tensions in one place of a locus spectrum can disseminate along that spectrum.

Originality/value

This study is original because it applies paradox theory and the four categories of performing, belonging, learning and organizing within the field of greening transportation, and in particular as a lens to study interactions between different actors.
Influence of cyber violence and online victimization on cognitive development of female students from Pakistani higher education institutions
Authors: Asad Muhammad Mujtaba , Fatima Syeda Sabika
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Cyber violence is a global emerging issue which is growing with technology or online spaces, having a great influence on individual’s development. The purpose of this study is to identify the dominant factors of cyber violence and its influence on the cognitive development of female undergraduate students.

Design/methodology/approach

In this quantitative study, a questionnaire is used as a data collection tool. Moreover, this research is conducted on female undergraduate students (n = 300). Whereas, the purposive sampling technique is used and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS 27.0) software is used to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings of this study show that cyber bullying is the dominant factor of cyber violence, whereas cyber doxxing has high influence on cognitive development of female undergraduate students. In addition, the value of correlational coefficient is 0.683, which indicates a strong positive correlation. Therefore, it supports that the null hypothesis is rejected and alternative hypothesis is accepted.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are of great importance for policymakers to update the regulations for cyber violence and provide the protection laws for victims whereas it is helpful for the investigation agencies and cybercrime units to be more active and needs to take immediate actions on reported incidents to minimize its further spread and support victims of it. Also, it helps society to understand the influence of it on cognitive health, which helps them to create a safer environment. Similarly, parents and teachers need to make a safe and comfortable environment around children and keep an eye on them. Further, it is beneficial for companies or online platforms to keep their sites or apps more secure for the users. Moreover, future research studies could expand the topic by involving different genders and age group peoples by using different methodologies to explore in depth.

Originality/value

This study is unique as there are limited studies, which identify the factor of cyber violence and its influence on cognitive development. Also, fewer studies can be seen in the context of Pakistan.
Nursing leadership style and error management culture: a scoping review
Authors: Moraca Eleonora , Zaghini Francesco , Fiorini Jacopo , Sili Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the influence of nursing leadership style on error management culture (EMC).

Design/methodology/approach

This scoping review was conducted following the integrative review methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and EBSCO databases were systematically searched to identify studies on nursing leadership, error management and measurement, and error management culture. The studies’ methodological quality was then assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies.

Findings

Thirteen manuscripts were included for review. The analysis confirmed that nursing leadership plays an important role in EMC and nurses’ intention to report errors. Three emerging themes were identified: 1) leadership and EMC; 2) leadership and the intention to report errors; and 3) leadership and error rate.

Research limitations/implications

A major limitation of the studies is that errors are often analyzed in a transversal way and associated with patient safety, and not as a single concept.

Practical implications

Healthcare managers should promote training dedicated to head nurses and their leadership style, for creating a good work environment in which nurses feel free and empowered to report errors, learn from them and prevent their reoccurrence in the future.

Originality/value

There is a positive relationship between nursing leadership and error management in terms of reduced errors and increased benefits. Positive nursing leadership leads to improvements in the caring quality.
Meeting Linnean, Wallacean, and Darwinian shortfalls in global biodiversity hotspots: A model study from the Indian Himalayan Region
Authors: Wani Sajad Ahmad , Mugal Muzamil Ahmad , Dar Firdous Ahmad , Reddy C. Sudhakar , Rashid Irfan , Khuroo Anzar Ahmad
Published: September 2024

Despite recent efforts to make large‐scale biodiversity datasets available, several data shortfalls still exist that preclude our progress in achieving global conservation and sustainability goals. In this study, we present a comprehensive native tree dataset (1689 species) from the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR)—home to two global biodiversity hotspots—assembled from an extensive data synthesis. Based on this database, we investigate the geographic patterns and drivers of α‐ and β‐taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity of the native trees among 13 different provinces of IHR. Our results revealed a considerable variation in the α‐ and β‐taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity among the provinces of IHR, with the highest values in eastern provinces. We found phylogenetic clustering mostly in the western provinces, and phylogenetic dispersion in the eastern provinces. We found a positive correlation between the taxonomic and phylogenetic dissimilarity across the IHR. Also, the different sets of explanatory variables explained the variation of tree species richness, standardized effect size of phylogenetic diversity, net relatedness index, and nearest taxon index, with maximum contribution by temperature seasonality (Bio4). Furthermore, temperature‐related climatic distance individually explained most of the variation in the taxonomic and phylogenetic dissimilarity between the provinces of IHR. Overall, our findings unveil the patterns of taxonomic, biogeographic, and phylogenetic dimensions of tree flora in the IHR, which in turn can help in formulating scientific data‐based regional policy and conservation strategies. Looking forward, we presented a model study for bridging the Linnean, Wallacean, and Darwinian shortfalls in the globally data‐deficient biodiversity‐rich regions.
The dynamic role of digital financial inclusion, sustainable energy transition, and governance in achieving global ecological sustainability
Authors: Murtaza Muhammad Ramiz , Hongzhong Fan , Ullah Atta , Khan Saba
Published: September 2024

A global surge in socio‐economic activities is putting a massive burden on ecological balance, which has become one of the major challenges worldwide. Yet, it is complicated for national and international authorities to find eco‐friendly and interlinked socio‐economic developments due to a lack of empirical evidence. In this era of digitalization, digital financial inclusion has an ability to create a balance among economy, ecology, and society by conserving natural resources. Meanwhile, it minimizes ecological burden by promoting sustainable energy transition at all societal levels, which is the main agenda of the United Nations (UN) Climate Change 28th Conference of Parties (UN‐COP28). Focusing on these intentions, this research aims to explore the dynamic influence of digital financial inclusion (DFI), sustainable energy transition (SET), and governance (GOV) on global ecological footprints (EFT) by taking a sample of 121 nations within a timeframe of 2003–2022. This study utilizes a two‐step system generalized method of moments (GMM) and Driscoll–Kraay (D–K) regression as prime and robust empirical techniques, respectively. The outcomes reveal that DFI significantly reduces EFT worldwide and upper‐middle‐income samples; however, it significantly enhances EFT in high‐income nations. While DFI has a negative and insignificant connection with EFT in lower‐middle and low‐income countries. Moreover, SET significantly declines EFT in all categories, and mixed outcomes are found for the linkage between GOV and EFT. Some vital policy implications for ecological sustainability are also provided in this research work.
Efficacy and safety of methotrexate plus hydroxychloroquine combination therapy vs. methotrexate monotherapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ma Jiasheng , Zeng Miaoyu , Hsu Chi‐Jen , Li Dandan , Fok Mei Na , Jiang Yan , Li Qiaoqiao , Ma Jie , Zhou Jiaze , Chen Brian Shiian , Li Fengju
Published: September 2024

Objective

To explore the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with methotrexate (MTX) plus hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) vs. MTX monotherapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Sixty patients without prior RA treatments were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to two groups: one receiving MTX plus HCQ, and the other receiving MTX monotherapy. We conducted a comparative analysis before and after the 12‐week trial, evaluating the visual analogue scale (VAS), the disease activity score in 28 joints (DAS), serum inflammatory factor (including serum C‐reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), as well as the outcome of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version questionnaire (WHOQOL‐BREF) and the treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) for all the participants in the study.

Results

At the 12th week of the trial, a more remarkable decrease in pain score (VAS), disease activity score (DAS), and serum inflammatory factor levels could be noticed in individuals on the combination therapy. The quality of life score was as well found to be higher in the MTX + HCQ group than the MTX monotherapy group. The incidence of adverse reactions in the MTX + HCQ and the MTX monotherapy groups were 10.00% and 6.67%, respectively. However, no statistical significance could be observed (p > .05).

Conclusion

In our study, both the MTX + HCQ combination therapy and MTX monotherapy demonstrated improvements in symptoms, conditions and quality of life for patients with RA. Notably, the combination therapy could achieve better outcomes across all indices compared to MTX monotherapy, highlighting its potential as the optimal first‐line treatment for RA. © 2024 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.
Targeting RNA with small molecules, from RNA structures to precision medicines: IUPHAR review: 40
Authors: Tong Yuquan , Childs‐Disney Jessica L. , Disney Matthew D.
Published: September 2024

RNA plays important roles in regulating both health and disease biology in all kingdoms of life. Notably, RNA can form intricate three‐dimensional structures, and their biological functions are dependent on these structures. Targeting the structured regions of RNA with small molecules has gained increasing attention over the past decade, because it provides both chemical probes to study fundamental biology processes and lead medicines for diseases with unmet medical needs. Recent advances in RNA structure prediction and determination and RNA biology have accelerated the rational design and development of RNA‐targeted small molecules to modulate disease pathology. However, challenges remain in advancing RNA‐targeted small molecules towards clinical applications. This review summarizes strategies to study RNA structures, to identify small molecules recognizing these structures, and to augment the functionality of RNA‐binding small molecules. We focus on recent advances in developing RNA‐targeted small molecules as potential therapeutics in a variety of diseases, encompassing different modes of actions and targeting strategies. Furthermore, we present the current gaps between early‐stage discovery of RNA‐binding small molecules and their clinical applications, as well as a roadmap to overcome these challenges in the near future.
Seabirds and climate change in North‐West Europe: Identifying opportunities for an effective and efficient conservation response
Authors: Taylor Nigel G. , Häkkinen Henry , Butler James R. A. , Petrovan Silviu O. , Sutherland William J. , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: September 2024

Climate change poses a massive and growing threat to wildlife. Calls are growing for coordinated and collaborative responses to conserve species threatened by climate change, but how this works in practice remains largely unexplored. Focusing on seabirds in North‐West Europe, we carried out 32 semi‐structured stakeholder interviews to (1) explore existing conservation work linked to climate change, (2) identify barriers to work on climate change among conservation actors, and (3) identify key conservation actors and characterize their interactions. Interviewees identified a range of research, policy, and practical conservation work for seabirds related—directly or indirectly—to climate change. They highlighted the importance of general conservation work to facilitate seabird adaptation to climate change, and global mitigation of climate change (e.g., through decarbonization and ecosystem restoration). Interviewees identified several barriers to conservation work explicitly addressing climate change, pertaining to information, leadership, resources, and values/beliefs. We discovered that seabird conservation networks are generally well‐established and harmonious, but not tension‐free. There are also some misunderstandings over actor responsibilities that could lead to bystander effects. We present suggestions to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of seabird conservation in response to climate change.
1114. Wikstroemia pseudoretusa Koidz.
Authors: Murata Jin , Yamanaka Masumi
Published: September 2024

Wikstroemia pseudoretusa Koidz., endemic to the Ogasawara Islands, Japan is illustrated here from an ex‐situ collection conserved in the glasshouse of the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, Tokyo.
Patients with type 1 diabetes are at elevated risk of developing new hypertension, chronic kidney disease and diabetic ketoacidosis after COVID‐19: Up to 40 months’ follow‐up
Authors: Mehrotra‐Varma Shiv , Lu Justin Y. , Boparai Montek Singh , Henry Sonya , Wang Stephen H. , Duong Tim Q.
Published: September 2024

Aim

The aim was to investigate whether COVID‐19 increases new incidence of hypertension (HTN), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) up to 40 months post‐infection.

Materials and Methods

Three groups of patients from the Montefiore Health System in the Bronx (1 March 2020 to 1 July 2023) were studied: T1D patients hospitalized for COVID‐19 (H‐COVID‐19, n = 511), T1D patients with COVID‐19 but not hospitalized for COVID‐19 (NH‐COVID‐19, n = 306) and T1D patients without a positive COVID‐19 test on record (non‐COVID‐19, n = 1547). COVID‐19 patients were those with a positive polymerase‐chain‐reaction test on record, and non‐COVID‐19 patients were either tested negative or not tested on record. Cumulative incidences and adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed with adjustment for competing risks.

Results

Compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients, both H‐COVID‐19 (unadjusted 19.72% vs. 3.14%, p < 0.001; aHR = 7.55 [3.33, 17.06], p < 0.001) and NH‐COVID‐19 (10.26% vs. 3.14%, p = 0.004; aHR = 5.08 [2.19, 11.78], p < 0.001) patients were more likely to develop new HTN. Compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients, both H‐COVID‐19 (11.41% vs. 1.14%, p < 0.001; aHR = 9.76 [4.248, 22.25], p < 0.001) and NH‐COVID‐19 (7.69% vs. 1.14%, p < 0.001; aHR = 6.54 [2.91, 14.67], p < 0.001) patients were more likely to develop new CKD. Compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients, both H‐COVID‐19 (4.09% vs. 1.06%, p < 0.001; aHR = 12.24 [4.09, 36.59], p < 0.001) and NH‐COVID‐19 (3.06% vs. 1.06%, p = 0.035; aHR = 12.94 [4.09, 40.89], p < 0.001) patients were more likely to develop new DKA at follow‐up.

Conclusion

T1D patients with COVID‐19 are at higher risk of developing new HTN, CKD and DKA compared to T1D patients without COVID‐19.
The effectiveness and sustainability of health outcomes from a holistic digital weight‐loss service with concomitant initiation of tirzepatide: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial in the UK
Authors: Talay Louis , Vickers Matt , Alvi Omar
Published: September 2024

Aim

To measure the effectiveness and sustainability of the Juniper UK digital weight‐loss service (DWLS), which delivers 6 months of personalized, proactive lifestyle coaching supplemented with tirzepatide to patients through a multidisciplinary team (MDT).

Methods

An observer‐blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted on a cohort of non‐diabetic patients of the Juniper DWLS in the UK. Participants in both the intervention and control groups will receive weekly subcutaneous injections of 2.5 mg tirzepatide for 4 weeks, uptitrating the dose to 5.0 mg from weeks 5 to 8, and by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks until reaching 15 mg in week 21, which they will maintain until the end of the intervention period at 6 months, when participants will be taken off the medication. The intervention group will receive personalized weeklylifestyle coaching with a focus on protein intake and resistance training for 6 months. Participants in the control group will attend a diet and exercise group counselling session at programme inception and will be sent a summary of the session's content at months 2 and 4. Aside from these events, health coaches will only interact with control group participants on a reactive basis. From month 6 to month 12, participants from both groups will no longer have access to their MDTs. The trial's co‐primary endpoints include weight loss, fat‐free to fat‐mass ratio and composite strength measures at 12 months (6 months following the end of treatment), compared with baseline. Secondary endpoints include percentage change in weight, fat‐free to fat‐mass ratio, and composite strength from baseline to 6 months, side effect incidence, and change in cardiometabolic risk factors at 12 months. Quality of life and programme engagement represent the study's exploratory endpoints.

Results

A total of 688 participants enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 44.6 (± 11.4) years and a mean body mass index of 34.8 (± 7.5) kg/m2; 81.0% of participants are women, and 72.8% are of White ethnicity. More than three‐quarters of participants have at least one co‐morbidity, with dyslipidaemia (42.4%), hypertension (35.3%) and high cholesterol (31.8%) being the most prevalent conditions.

Conclusions

This RCT will be the first to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of a real‐world intensive, multidisciplinary DWLS, and it should highlight the potential of such a service for long‐term obesity treatment compared with programmes that deliver standard health counselling.
Glucose‐lowering medicines use before and after entry into long‐term care facilities
Authors: Wondimkun Yohanes A. , Caughey Gillian E. , Inacio Maria C. , Air Tracy , Lang Catherine , Sluggett Janet K.
Published: September 2024

Aim

To examine changes in the use of glucose‐lowering medicine (GLM) 12 months before and 12 months after long‐term care facility (LTCF) entry among people with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A national retrospective cohort study was conducted using linked health and aged care data from the Registry of Senior Australians National Historical Cohort. Residents of LTCFs with diabetes aged 65 years or older from 2015 to 2019 were included. Prevalence of GLM use and the number of defined daily doses (DDDs) dispensed per 1000 resident‐days were estimated quarterly (91‐day) using Poisson regression models, or negative binomial regression when overdispersion was present.

Results

Among the 50 993 residents studied (median age 84 years), the prevalence of GLM use was 58.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.0%‐58.8%) in the 9‐12 months pre‐LTCF entry and 56.3% (95% CI 55.9%‐56.8%) in the 9‐12 months post‐entry. The number of DDDs/1000 resident‐days increased from 1015.2 (95% CI 1002.3‐1028.1) to 1253.8 (95% CI 1168.4‐1339.3) during the same period. GLM use in the 3 months pre‐entry was 56.8% (95% CI 56.4%‐57.2%) compared with 61.7% (95% CI 61.3%‐62.1%) in the 3 months post‐entry, with the increased use driven mainly by insulin. No marked changes in the number of GLMs dispensed or GLM type were observed at 9‐12 months post‐entry compared with 3 months pre‐entry. Among 22 792 individuals dispensed a GLM in the 3 months prior to LTCF entry, 50.2% continued the same GLM at 9‐12 months post‐entry.

Conclusions

GLM use peaked in the first 3 months following LTCF entry, driven mainly by insulin, hence, residents may benefit from close monitoring of diabetes treatment during this period.
From Adolescence to Adulthood: Understanding Care Trajectories in an Early Detection and Intervention Centre in France
Authors: Marchini Simone , Laroche Marie‐Alix , Nemorin Harmony , Morin Valentine , Tanguy Guillaume , Lucarini Valeria , Iftimovici Anton , Chaumette Boris , Krebs Marie‐Odile , Charre Mylene
Published: September 2024

Background

Psychiatric disorders often emerge during adolescence or young adulthood, leading to significant disability among youth. The transition from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) is critical for individuals experiencing emerging psychopathology, with delayed access to care negatively impacting long‐term outcomes. Accessing mental health services for adolescents and young adults is often complex and delayed due to challenges in service visibility, accessibility and appropriateness.

Methods

This study examines the care trajectories of individuals consecutively accessing the early detection and intervention (EDI) centre C'JAAD (Evaluation Centre for Young Adults and Adolescents) in Paris (France) over the year 2021. The main goal was to clarify the role of this EDI centre in the continuity of care and transition to AMHS. Data about their history of care, hospitalisations and referral sources were collected retrospectively.

Results

The sample comprised 194 individuals, with 57.2% males and a median age of 20 years. Most patients (67.5%) were ≥18 years old upon arrival, with 31% in a situation of not being in education, employment, or training (NEET). Over one‐third (35.2%) had prior psychiatric hospitalisations. Patients were mainly referred to our EDI centre from other hospital departments (42.3%). Regarding care in CAMHS, 50.3% of the total sample had medical follow‐up during childhood, of whom 41.9% had discontinued care upon arrival at the EDI centre. The median onset age of care in CAMHS was 14, with a median duration of 12 months. Adult patients experienced an approximately 3‐year gap between the end of CAMHS care and assessment at the EDI centre.

Discussion

The sample's characteristics resemble those of other EDI centres, but concerns persist regarding referral timing and the NEET status of many youths. Lack of prior medical follow‐up and challenges in transitioning to AMHS underscore the need to enhance care continuity and address difficulties in accessing care during the transition to adulthood.
Perinatal Outcomes Following Intravenous Iron for Treatment of Iron Deficiency With and Without Anemia
Authors: Ryan Kimberly S. , Martens Kylee L. , Garg Bharti , Chobrutskiy Boris I. , Hedges Madeline A. , Hagen Olivia L. , Sabile Jean M. G. , Lewkowitz Adam K. , Tuuli Methodius G. , Deloughery Thomas G. , Shatzel Joseph J. , Lo Jamie O. , Benson Ashley E.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To determine maternal and neonatal outcomes in individuals with iron deficiency receiving antepartum intravenous (IV) iron supplementation, stratified by the degree of anemia.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study of iron‐deficient pregnant patients who received at least one IV infusion of iron (iron sucrose, low molecular weight iron dextran [LMWID], or ferric carboxymaltose) during their pregnancy from January 1, 2011 through June 16, 2022. Our primary outcomes included both neonatal composite morbidity and maternal composite morbidity in the context of maternal anemia.

Results

Patients who received LMWID had fewer infusion visits, received higher total doses of iron and had a more substantial correction of hemoglobin compared to those who received iron sucrose (p < 0.01). Maternal anemia at the time of admission was not associated with neonatal composite morbidity. However, there was a significant association between anemia status and maternal composite outcome (p = 0.05). Anemia at time of delivery was associated with the likelihood of requiring a blood transfusion (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

This study reinforces previous findings emphasizing the adverse effects of iron deficiency on maternal health and the role of IV iron in reducing these risks.
How does energy transition improve energy utilization efficiency? A case study of China's coal‐to‐gas program
Authors: Zhou Zhixiang , Zhu Yifei , Li Yannan , Wu Huaqing
Published: September 2024

Improving energy efficiency by adjusting the structure of energy consumption types is of great significance for reducing carbon emissions in the short term. The present paper constructs new data envelopment analysis models for evaluating energy utilization under different structural conditions and calculating potential emissions reductions. We conducted empirical research on 30 provinces in China from 2003 to 2019—a time frame that coincides with the instituting of China's “coal‐to‐gas” program. Our results show that technological progress is the main way for China to reduce carbon emissions and that it is possible to reduce the total amount of carbon emissions by 35%. Additionally, optimizing the energy consumption structure following the coal‐to‐gas program guidelines could reduce the country's carbon emissions by a further 25%. Finally, this paper provides specific policy recommendations based on the efficiency analysis results to guide each province in reducing carbon emissions under the conditions of energy demand growth.