bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landslide processes as a natural disturbance in ecosystems in the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, Cuba
Authors: Pospehov G B , Savon-Vaciano Y , Hernandez-Columbie T
Published: July 2023

The present work addressed the occurrence of landslide processes as a disturbing element for some ecosystems in the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park in the northeastern part of the Republic of Cuba. A landslide inventory was carried out with Sentinel images as the main source of information. Factors such as geology, relief and soil were also considered as conditioning elements for the occurrence of landslides. The vegetation was classified according to O.J Reyes 2012 and the inventory of vertebrate species in Cuba was used, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. A total of 206 landslides in the park were inventoried. The areas with the highest density of landslides developed mainly in a very abrupt relief, where sedimentary rocks and brown soils predominate; These areas coincide with those of low altitude rainforest development and where the largest number of vertebrate species is found.
Determination of Bioactive Compounds in Vaccinium myrtillus L. and Vaccinium uliginosum L. in Armenia
Authors: Harutyunyan Z E , Hoveyan Z H , Zakharyan M G , Mikayelyan M N , Vardanian I V , Zh Sargsyan G
Published: July 2023

Blueberries is a valuable source of health-promoting bioactive compounds. The objects of this study were the wild blueberry variety Vaccinium myrtillus L. and Vaccinium uliginosum L. growing in Armenia. The total content of phenols, anthocyanins and flavonoids, as well as the composition of organic acids in blueberry fruits and leaves, was studied. Spectrophotometry and HPLC (High-performance liquid chromatography) methods were applied. The results of the research showed that for most of the studied parameters, the Vaccinium uliginosum inferior to the Vaccinium myrtillus.
Electron density control in WSe2monolayers via photochlorination
Authors: Katsipoulaki E , Vailakis G , Demeridou I , Karfaridis D , Patsalas P , Watanabe K , Taniguchi T , Paradisanos I , Kopidakis G , Kioseoglou G , Stratakis E
Published: July 2023

Modulation of the Fermi level using an ultraviolet (UV)-assisted photochemical method is demonstrated in tungsten diselenide monolayers. Systematic shifts and relative intensities between charged and neutral exciton species indicate a progressive and controllable decrease of the electron density and switch tungsten diselenide from n-type to a p-type semiconductor. The presence of chlorine in the 2D crystal shifts the Fermi level closer to the valence band while the effect can be only partially reversible via continuous wave laser rastering process. Chlorine species in the lattice are validated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, while density functional theory calculations predict that adsorption of chlorine on the selenium vacancy sites leads to p-type doping. The results of our study indicate that photochemical techniques have the potential to enhance the performance of various 2D materials, making them suitable for integrated optoelectronics such as lateral nanopatterned p–n junctions.
‘Negative temperature’ is observed in a photon gas
Authors: Jarman Sam
Published: July 2023

Researchers in Germany and the US have created photon gases that can exist at “negative temperatures” while undergoing basic thermodynamic processes – including expansion and compression.
UK pins ‘net zero’ hopes on carbon capture
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: July 2023

The UK has announced a £20bn package for carbon-capture projects, but not everyone is convinced it will be enough to deliver the country’s net-zero targets, as Michael Allen reports.
Talking quantum 2.0
Authors: Crease Robert P , Carter Jennifer , Elia Gino
Published: July 2023

Quantum technology could benefit from us finding less spooky ways to describe the weird phenomena on which they’re based, argue Robert P Crease, Jennifer Carter and Gino Elia.
How Britain lost its space-launch capability
Authors: Huber Michael
Published: July 2023

A reply to the feature by Benjamin Skuse about the challenges and opportunities for the UK’s new generation of spaceports.
Defending the viva
Authors: Walther Thomas
Published: July 2023

A reply to the Forum article by Pruthvi Mehta, who wondered if the traditional oral exam is the best way to assess PhD students.
Journey to the stars
Authors: Green Karel
Published: July 2023

Karel Green reviews The Sky Is For Everyone: Women Astronomers In Their Own Words edited by Virginia Trimble and David A Weintraub.
Ask me anything: Masako Yamada
Authors: Tesh Sarah
Published: July 2023

Masako Yamada is the director of applications at IonQ, a global quantum-computing company headquartered in the US that develops quantum systems designed to solve complex problems. Prior to her current role, Yamada worked at GE Research for 20 years, and she holds a PhD in physics from Boston University.
Editorial: Focus on algorithms for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Legenstein Robert , Basu Arindam , Panda Priyadarshini
Published: July 2023

Neuromorphic computing provides a promising energy-efficient alternative to von-Neumann-type computing and learning architectures. However, the best neuromorphic hardware is useless without suitable inference and learning algorithms that can fully exploit hardware advantages. Such algorithms often have to deal with challenging constraints posed by neuromorphic hardware such as massive parallelism, sparse asynchronous communication, and analog and/or unreliable computing elements. This Focus Issue presents advances on various aspects of algorithms for neuromorphic computing. The collection of articles covers a wide range from very fundamental questions about the computational properties of the basic computing elements in neuromorphic systems, algorithms for continual learning, semantic segmentation, and novel efficient learning paradigms, up to algorithms for a specific application domain.
Pathways Linking Information and Communication Technology Use and Loneliness Among Older Adults: Evidence From the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Zhang Kunyu , Burr Jeffrey A , Mutchler Jan E , Lu Jiehua
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

This study investigated the association between information and communication technology (ICT) use and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults (aged 65+), as well as the mediating effects of social relations, perceived control, and purpose-in-life.

Research Design and Methods

The study used data from the 2014 and 2018 Health and Retirement Study (N = 3,026), employing autoregressive path models with contemporaneous mediation to assess the association of 2 kinds of ICT use, social media communication and general computer use, with loneliness through the pathways of perceived social support, social contact, perceived constraints, and purpose-in-life.

Results

Social media communication had a negative association with loneliness. Perceived social support and social contact mediated this association, but not perceived constraints, or purpose-in-life. General computer use did not have a significant total effect on loneliness; however, a significant indirect effect through perceived constraints, purpose-in-life, and social contact was found.

Discussion and Implications

Our findings extended the existing literature regarding the important factors associated with variation in loneliness among older adults. Health programs and ICT solutions could be more effective in mitigating loneliness if they target the root causes of loneliness, including reducing perceptions of constraints and increasing a sense of purpose-in-life, along with strengthening social relationships.
Establishing a single-sex controlled human Schistosoma mansoni infection model for Uganda: protocol for safety and dose-finding trial
Authors: Abaasa Andrew , Egesa Moses , Driciru Emmanuella , Koopman Jan Pieter R , Kiyemba Ronald , Sanya Richard E , Nassuuna Jacent , Ssali Agnes , Kimbugwe Geofrey , Wajja Anne , van Dam Govert J , Corstjens Paul L A M , Cose Stephen , Seeley Janet , Kamuya Dorcas , Webb Emily L , Yazdanbakhsh Maria , Kaleebu Pontiano , Siddiqui Afzal A , Kabatereine Narcis , Tukahebwa Edridah , Roestenberg Meta , Elliott Alison M
Published: July 2023

Control of schistosomiasis depends on a single drug, praziquantel, with variable cure rates, high reinfection rates, and risk of drug resistance. A vaccine could transform schistosomiasis control. Preclinical data show that vaccine development is possible, but conventional vaccine efficacy trials require high incidence, long-term follow-up, and large sample size. Controlled human infection studies (CHI) can provide early efficacy data, allowing the selection of optimal candidates for further trials. A Schistosoma CHI has been established in the Netherlands but responses to infection and vaccines differ in target populations in endemic countries. We aim to develop a CHI for Schistosoma mansoni in Uganda to test candidate vaccines in an endemic setting. This is an open-label, dose-escalation trial in two populations: minimal, or intense, prior Schistosoma exposure. In each population, participants will be enrolled in sequential dose-escalating groups. Initially, three volunteers will be exposed to 10 cercariae. If all show infection, seven more will be exposed to the same dose. If not, three volunteers in subsequent groups will be exposed to higher doses (20 or 30 cercariae) following the same algorithm, until all 10 volunteers receiving a particular dose become infected, at which point the study will be stopped for that population. Volunteers will be followed weekly after infection until CAA positivity or to 12 weeks. Once positive, they will be treated with praziquantel and followed for one year. The trial registry number is ISRCTN14033813 and all approvals have been obtained. The trial will be subjected to monitoring, inspection, and/or audits.
To design, or not to design? Comparison of beetle ultraconserved element probe set utility based on phylogenetic distance, breadth, and method of probe design
Authors: Gustafson Grey T , Glynn Rachel D , Short Andrew E Z , Tarasov Sergei , Gunter Nicole L
Published: July 2023

Tailoring ultraconserved element (UCE) probe set design to focal taxa has been demonstrated to improve locus recovery and phylogenomic inference. However, beyond conducting expensive in vitro testing, it remains unclear how best to determine whether an existing UCE probe set is likely to suffice for phylogenomic inference or whether tailored probe design will be desirable. Here we investigate the utility of 8 different UCE probe sets for the in silico phylogenomic inference of scarabaeoid beetles. Probe sets tested differed in terms of (i) how phylogenetically distant from Scarabaeoidea taxa those used during probe design are, (ii) breadth of phylogenetic inference probe set was designed for, and (iii) method of probe design. As part of this study, 2 new UCE probe sets are produced for the beetle family Scarabaeidae and superfamily Hydrophiloidea. We confirm that probe set utility decreases with increasing phylogenetic distance from target taxa. In addition, narrowing the phylogenetic breadth of probe design decreases the phylogenetic capture range. We also confirm previous findings regarding ways to optimize UCE probe design. Finally, we make suggestions regarding assessment of need for de novo probe design.
Gender bias in cultural tightness across the 50 US states, its correlates, and links to gender inequality in leadership and innovation
Authors: Qin Xin , Chua Roy Y J , Tan Ling , Li Wanlu , Chen Chen
Published: July 2023

Cultural tightness theory, which holds that “tight” cultures have rigid norms and sanctions, provides unique insights into cultural variations. However, current theorizing has not analyzed gender differences in cultural tightness. Addressing this gap, this research shows that women are more constrained than men by norms within the same society. By recruiting 15,425 respondents, we mapped state-level gender bias in cultural tightness across the United States. Variability in gender bias in cultural tightness was associated with state-level sociopolitical factors (religion and political ideology) and gender-related threats. Gender bias in cultural tightness was positively associated with state-level gender inequality in (business and political) leadership and innovation, two major challenges faced by women professionals. Overall, this research advances cultural tightness theory and offers a cultural norms account on persistent gender inequalities in society.
A haplotype‐resolved genome for Rhododendron × pulchrum and the expression analysis of heat shock genes
Authors: Shen Jian‐Shuang , Lan Lan , Kan Sheng‐Long , Cheng He‐Feng , Peng Dan , Wan Zi‐Yun , Hu Yue , Huang Xiao‐Ling , Li Xue‐Qin , Ye Yuan‐Jun , Tembrock Luke R. , Wu Zhi‐Qiang , Jin Song‐Heng
Published: July 2023

Rhododendron is the largest genus in Ericaceae and is well known for its diversity and beauty of flowers present in different species, making it a much‐revered lineage of ornamental plants. Many species of Rhododendron are intolerant of high temperatures, which are becoming more common and intense in urban areas under global climate change. Therefore, the discovery and description of genes from heat‐tolerant Rhododendron lineages are essential in the development of new climate‐resilient cultivars. One such species known to be heat tolerant is Rhododendron × pulchrum Sweet. To better understand the genomics of heat tolerance in this species, we assembled a haplotype‐resolved and chromosome‐scale genome for R. × pulchrum, which had a genome size of 509 Mb; a scaffold N50 of 37 251 370 bp; and contained 35 610 genes. In addition, based on the same reannotation pipeline, we conducted pan‐genomic analyses for all seven available chromosome‐scale Rhododendron genomes and found 14 415 gene groups shared across all species and 18 018 gene groups distributed in the other species, including 1879 gene groups found in only a single species. Finally, we analyzed the transcriptomic data from heat‐treated and non‐heat‐treated R. × pulchrum plants to quantify the genes that are most important during heat stress in an effort to inform the development of climate‐resilient cultivars. This study provides insight into the genome diversity in Rhododendron and targets several genes related to agronomic traits that may help in further analysis.
Effect of a multicomponent programme based on reality orientation therapy on the physical performance and cognitive function of elderly community‐dwellers: a quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Kume Yu , Nagaoka Makiko , Uemura Sachiko , Saito Akira , Tsugaruya Megumi , Fujita Tomoe , Terui Yoshino , Kodama Ayuto , Sato Akiko , Ota Hidetaka , Ando Hideaki
Published: July 2023

Background

Effects of a multicomponent exercise programme have an impact on the physical, cognitive, and psychological domains in elderly community‐dwellers. However, some individuals aged 65 years or more have not shown positive effects after the intervention as reported in similar research. The objective of this quasi‐experimental study was to clarify the effectiveness of a multicomponent programme based on reality orientation therapy (ROT) on the physical performance, cognitive ability, and psychological state in the elderly.

Method

Participants were recruited from the general public in 20 areas of Akita Prefecture, Japan, and they took part in each exercise programme for 90 min a day, once every 2 weeks, for 3 months, according to the group classification using cluster randomization into 20 cohorts in Akita. Physical, cognitive, and geriatric depression assessments were performed at baseline and after the 3‐month intervention in both the ROT‐based intervention group and the control group.

Result

The final samples for analysis consisted of 31 participants in the control group and 30 participants in the intervention group. The results of the statistical analysis comparing the two groups showed that the 5‐repetition sit‐to‐stand test was performed significantly faster (P < 0.05) and that the results of the word list memory (WM) test and the Symbol Digit Substitution Task also had significantly improved (P < 0.05) after the intervention in both groups. The WM score did not show an interactive effect between the group and time factors, but it had a significant main effect on time in both groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of our quasi‐experimental study indicated that the multicomponent programme based on the ROT would be as effective as the original multicomponent programme combined with aerobic exercise and cognitive tasks, as highlighted in the WM.
Comparing observed occurrence of mistreatment during childbirth with women’s self-report: a validation study in Ghana, Guinea and Nigeria
Authors: Mehrtash Hedieh , Bohren Meghan A , Adu-Bonsaffoh Kwame , Irinyenikan Theresa Azonima , Berger Blair O , Maya Ernest , Balde Mamadou Dioulde , Maung Thae Maung , Aderoba Adeniyi Kolade , Tuncalp Özge , Leslie Hannah H
Published: July 2023

Background

There has been substantial progress in developing approaches to measure mistreatment of women during childbirth. However, less is known about the differences in measurement approaches. In this study, we compare measures of mistreatment obtained from the same women using labour observations and community-based surveys in Ghana, Guinea and Nigeria.

Methods

Experiences of mistreatment during childbirth are person-centred quality measures. As such, we assessed individual-level and population-level accuracy of labour observation relative to women’s self-report for different types of mistreatment. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, percent agreement and population-level inflation factor (IF), assessing prevalence of mistreatment in labour observation divided by ‘true’ prevalence in women’s self-report. We report the IF degree of bias as: low (0.75<IF<1.5), moderate (0.50<IF<0.75 or 1.5<IF<2.0) or high (IF≤0.50 or IF≥2.0).

Results

1536 women across Ghana (n=779), Guinea (n=425) and Nigeria (n=332) were included. Most mistreatment items demonstrated better specificity than sensitivity: observation of any physical abuse (44% sensitive, 89% specific), any verbal abuse (61% sensitive, 73% specific) and presence of a labour companion (19% sensitive, 93% specific). Items for stigma (IF 0.16), pain relief requested (IF 0.38), companion present (IF 0.32) and lack of easy access to fluids (IF 0.46) showed high risk of bias, meaning labour observations would substantially underestimate true prevalence. Other items showed low or moderate bias.

Conclusion

Using self-report as the reference standard, labour observations demonstrated moderate-to-high specificity (accurately identifying lack of mistreatment) but low-to-moderate sensitivity (accurately identifying presence of mistreatment) among women. For overall prevalence, either women’s self-report or observations can be used with low-moderate bias for most mistreatment items. However, given the dynamicity, complexity, and limitations in ‘objectivity’, some experiences of mistreatment (stigma, pain relief, labour companionship, easy access to fluids) require measurement via women’s self-report. More work is needed to understand how subjectivity influences how well a measure represents individual’s experiences.
Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of variations of anthropometric measures of obesity with age in the Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Gao Yan , Min Yuan-I , Bell Ronny A , Bertoni Alain G , Correa Adolfo
Published: July 2023

Objective

To explore how anthropometric measures of obesity vary with age among African American (AA) adults.

Participants and setting

3634 AA adults participated in the Jackson Heart Study (Jackson, Mississippi, USA) from 2004 to 2013.

Outcome measures

Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR).

Methods

Linear regression models were used to estimate the mean differences in anthropometric measures cross-sectionally by age group. Longitudinal changes in anthropometric measures over time (ie, the ageing effect) within each sex and age group were analysed using mixed effects models. All regression models were adjusted for education and lifestyle factors.

Results

In cross-sectional analysis, older age was associated with lower BMI, WC and WHtR, but higher WHR in both sexes. Compared with 25 to <44 years age group, the mean (95% CI) BMI, WC and WHtR was 0.80 (0.66 to 0.94), 0.27 (0.13 to 0.42) and 0.18 (0.03 to 0.32) standardised (SD) unit lower, while WHR was 0.48 (0.33 to 0.62) SD unit higher in the 75+ years age group. In longitudinal analysis, ageing was associated with increased BMI, WC and WHtR, among younger age groups but not in older age groups. However, WHR tended to increase with ageing across all age groups in both sexes. Among men 75+ years old, the mean change (95% CI) in BMI, WC and WHtR for every 5 years increase in age, was –0.20 (–0.29 to –0.11), –0.19 (−0.31 to –0.07), –0.15 (−0.27 to –0.02) SD unit, respectively, while it was 0.24 (0.05 to 0.44) SD unit for WHR.

Conclusions

Among middle-aged AA adults, all four anthropometric measures of obesity examined increased with ageing. However, among elderly AA adults, only WHR showed continued increase with ageing. WHR may be a better anthropometric measure for monitoring obesity in older AA adults.
Characteristics, management and outcomes in patients with CKD in a healthcare region in Sweden: a population-based, observational study
Authors: Agvall Björn , Ashfaq Awais , Bjurström Karl , Etminani Kobra , Friberg Lovisa , Lidén Johanna , Lingman Markus
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To describe chronic kidney disease (CKD) regarding treatment rates, comorbidities, usage of CKD International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnosis, mortality, hospitalisation, evaluate healthcare utilisation and screening for CKD in relation to new nationwide CKD guidelines.

Design

Population-based observational study.

Setting

Healthcare registry data of patients in Southwest Sweden.

Participants

A total cohort of 65 959 individuals aged >18 years of which 20 488 met the criteria for CKD (cohort 1) and 45 470 at risk of CKD (cohort 2).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Data were analysed with regards to prevalence, screening rates of blood pressure, glucose, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), Urinary–albumin–creatinine ratio (UACR) and usage of ICD-codes for CKD. Mortality and hospitalisation were analysed with logistic regression models.

Results

Of the CKD cohort, 18% had CKD ICD-diagnosis and were followed annually for blood pressure (79%), glucose testing (76%), eGFR (65%), UACR (24%). UACR follow-up was two times as common in hypertensive and cardiovascular versus diabetes patients with CKD with a similar pattern in those at risk of CKD. Statin and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone inhibitor appeared in 34% and 43%, respectively. Mortality OR at CKD stage 5 was 1.23 (CI 0.68 to 0.87), diabetes 1.20 (CI 1.04 to 1.38), hypertension 1.63 (CI 1.42 to 1.88), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) 1.84 (CI 1.62 to 2.09) associated with highest mortality risk. Hospitalisation OR in CKD stage 5 was 1.96 (CI 1.40 to 2.76), diabetes 1.15 (CI 1.06 to 1.25), hypertension 1.23 (CI 1.13 to 1.33) and ASCVD 1.52 (CI 1.41 to 1.64).

Conclusions

The gap between patients with CKD by definition versus those diagnosed as such was large. Compared with recommendations patients with CKD have suboptimal follow-up and treatment with renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitor and statins. Hypertension, diabetes and ASCVD were associated with increased mortality and hospitalisation. Improved screening and diagnosis of CKD, identification and management of risk factors and kidney protective treatment could affect clinical and economic outcomes.
Usability and feasibility of a digital cognitive screening tool measuring older adults’ early postoperative neurocognitive recovery: a protocol for a pilot study
Authors: Amirpour Anahita , Eckerblad Jeanette , Thorell Anders , Bergman Lina , Nilsson Ulrica
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Delayed neurocognitive recovery, also identified as early postoperative cognitive decline (POCD), is a common complication after surgery, with advanced age being the most important risk factor. As the geriatric population is increasing worldwide, and number of older adults undergoing surgery continues to rise, so will the incidence of POCD. Only a small proportion use digital cognitive tests for measuring postoperative neurocognitive performance compared with analogue tests. This study aims to evaluate a digital cognitive screening tool, Mindmore Postoperative version (Mindmore-P), in a perioperative setting to determine its feasibility and usability, and to compare preoperative cognition with early postoperative neurocognitive performance. Further, to determine associations between neurocognitive performance and perioperative factors as well as to explore patients’ experiences of early neurocognitive recovery.

Methods and analysis

We will include 50 patients (aged ≥60 years) undergoing elective abdominal surgery under general anaesthesia. Cognitive functions will be measured with Mindmore-P preoperatively and on postoperative day (POD) 1 or 2 as well as 2–3 weeks after surgery. Preoperatively, frailty, (Clinical Frailty Scale), depression (Geriatric Depression Scale-15), functional status (12-item WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0) and pre-recovery status (Swedish web version Quality of Recovery Scale, SwQoR) will be measured. Delirium will be assessed by Nu-DESC (Nursing Delirium Screening Scale) twice a day, with start on POD 1 and until the patient is discharged from the hospital. Outcomes at 2–3 weeks postoperatively are postoperative recovery (SwQoR), depression, functional status and usability (System Usability Scale) of Mindmore-P. Postoperative recovery will also be measured POD 1 or 2. We will also explore feasibility and experience of early postoperative neurocognitive recovery with interviews approximately 1 month after surgery.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (REC Reference: 2022-03593-01) and will follow the principles outlined in the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments. Results from this study will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences and in social media.

Trial registration number

NCT05564195.
Family role in paediatric safety incidents: a retrospective study protocol
Authors: Rees Philippa , Purchase Thomas , Ball Emily , Beggs Jillian , Gabriel Francesca , Gwyn Sioned , Hellard Stuart , Jones Elena , McFadzean Isobel Joy , Paccagnella Davide , Robb Philippa , Walsh Kathleen , Carson-Stevens Andrew
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Healthcare-associated harm is an international public health issue. Children are particularly vulnerable to this with 15%–35% of hospitalised children experiencing harm during medical care. While many factors increase the risk of adverse events, such as children’s dependency on others to recognise illness, children have a unique protective factor in the form of their family, who are often well placed to detect and prevent unsafe care. However, families can also play a key role in the aetiology of unsafe care.

We aim to explore the role of families, guardians and parents in paediatric safety incidents, and how this may have changed during the pandemic, to learn how to deliver safer care and codevelop harm prevention strategies across healthcare settings.

Methods and analysis

This will be a retrospective study inclusive of an exploratory data analysis and thematic analysis of incident report data from the Learning from Patient Safety Events service (formerly National Reporting and Learning System), using the established PatIent SAfety classification system. Reports will be identified by using specific search terms, such as *parent* and *mother*, to capture narratives with explicit mention of parental involvement, inclusive of family members with parental and informal caregiver responsibilities.

Paediatricians and general practitioners will characterise the reports and inter-rater reliability will be assessed. Exploratory descriptive analysis will allow the identification of types of incidents involving parents, contributing factors, harm outcomes and the specific role of the parents including inadvertent contribution to or mitigation of harm.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by Cardiff University Research Ethics Committee (SMREC 22/32). Findings will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal, presented at international conferences and presented at stakeholder workshops.
Mechanical thrombectomy in medium vessel occlusions using the novel aspiration Q catheters: an international multicenter experience
Authors: Monteiro Andre , Makalanda Hegoda Levansri Dilrukshan , Wareham James , Jones Jesse , Baig Ammad A , Dhillon Permesh Singh , Bhogal Pervinder , Mokin Maxim , Brinjikji Waleed , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: July 2023

Background

Medium vessel occlusions (MeVOs) comprise a large proportion of all stroke events. We performed a multicenter study of MIVI Q catheters, a novel design that optimizes suction forces without an increase in lumen diameter, for the treatment of MeVOs, aiming to evaluate its efficacy and safety.

Methods

Databases of two US and two UK centers were retrospectively reviewed for MeVO patients (M2-M3, anterior cerebral artery (ACA), or posterior cerebral artery (PCA)) treated with Q catheters. Outcomes were assessed as successful recanalization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) score ≥2b), first pass effect (FPE), and modified FPE (mFPE) as single pass achieving mTICI ≥2c and mTICI≥2b, respectively, and 90 day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score.

Results

69 patients were included (median age 71 years, IQR 56–82.5; 52.2% men). Median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission was 14, and Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) was 9. Primary (without large vessel occlusion (LVO)) and secondary (with LVO) MeVOs represented 47.8% and 52.2% of cases, respectively. Q catheters used were Q3 (47.8%), Q4 (33.3%), Q5 (10.1%), and Q6 (8.7%). mTICI≥2b was achieved in 92.8% of patients, with FPE in 47.8%, and mFPE in 68.1%. Two (2.9%) intraprocedural complications (symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage) occurred. 50% (27/54) achieved an mRS score of ≤2 at the 90 day follow-up. The median NIHSS at admission was significantly higher in secondary than in primary MeVOs (19.5 vs 12, P=0.009). The rate of mRS ≤2 at 90 days was significantly higher in primary than in secondary MeVOs (77.3% vs 31.3%, P=0.002).

Conclusions

Treatment of MeVO patients with Q catheters resulted in optimal angiographic and clinical outcomes. Although angiographic results were similar between primary and secondary MeVOs, the former had less severe presenting NIHSS and better outcomes at 90 days than the latter.
Antidepressant use and hyperactive delirium at the end of life: retrospective study
Authors: Gleadle Naomi , Cook Angus , Johnson Claire E , Walpole Grace
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Little is known about the adverse effects associated with antidepressant use in palliative care inpatients imminently approaching death. This study investigates the relationship between antidepressant use and hyperactive delirium in this population.

Methods

This is a retrospective medical record review of patients who died in a metropolitan palliative care unit in Victoria, Australia, during 2019. Generalised estimating equations were used to estimate the association between antidepressant use and presence of hyperactive delirium in the final 2 weeks of life.

Results

Of the 501 adult patients who died in the 12-month period, 113 (22.55%) were on at least one antidepressant at the time of admission. Any antidepressant use in the last 14 days of life was significantly associated with the diagnosis of hyperactive delirium (OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.30, 1.68). Patients prescribed antidepressants also experienced longer durations of delirium (3.89 days; SD 4.23) compared with those not taking any antidepressant (2.99 days; SD 3.70) in the final 2 weeks of life.

Conclusion

Antidepressant use or discontinuation is significantly associated with hyperactive delirium within 14 days of death. Although the causes of delirium are multifactorial and complex, antidepressant use is a potentially modifiable risk factor.
Vectorized Matrix Formulation for Sound Power Determination Through Inverse Problems and Regularization Techniques
Authors: Corral Luis , Román Pablo E.
Published: July 2023

Sound power estimation is a widely investigated research topic. Some of its state-of-the-art measurement solutions include taking velocity values on the source boundary, discrete pressure assessment on a virtual outer surface or evaluations with a sound intensity probe. The increased availability of microphone arrays proposes a new tool to obtain these results. The inverse boundary element method, the equivalent source method, the Helmholtz equation least-squares, and an approach based on the radiation resistance matrix provide vectorized formulations for estimating sound power. In this study, the results for different regularization techniques on the sound power deviation from a discrete line source are presented based on a backward reconstruction scheme from simulated sound pressure field points on four microphone arrays. Additionally, in this study, time improvement between single-frequency calculations and multi-frequency execution on multiple graphics processing units is presented. The outcome shows good accuracy and reduced computation time in graphics card implementations.
Mapping the Interdisciplinary Research on Non-consensual Pornography: Technical and Quantitative Perspectives
Authors: Falduti Mattia , Tessaris Sergio
Published: July 2023

The phenomenon of the non-consensual distribution of intimate or sexually explicit digital images of adults, a.k.a. non-consensual pornography (NCP) or revenge pornography, is under the spotlight for the toll it is taking on society. Law enforcement statistics confirm a dramatic global rise in abuses. For this reason, the research community is investigating different strategies to fight and mitigate the abuses and their effects. Since the phenomenon involves different aspects of personal and social interaction among users of social media and content sharing platforms, in the literature it is addressed under different academic disciplines. However, while most of the literature reviews focus on non-consensual pornography either from a social science or psychological perspective, to the best of our knowledge a systematic review of the research on the technical aspects of the problem is still missing. In this work, we present a Systematic Mapping Study (SMS) of the literature, looking at this interdisciplinary phenomenon through a technical lens. Therefore, we focus on the cyber side of the crime of non-consensual pornography with the aim of describing the state-of-the-art and the future lines of research from a technical and quantitative perspective.
Review—Reaction-Based Microcantilever Sensors
Authors: Lam Yuki , Patel Disha , Vaknin Ariel , Hoffman Lee , Thundat Thomas , Ji Hai-Feng
Published: July 2023

Microcantilevers (MCLs) have proven to be a cost-effective, label-free, and portable analytical technique for the detection of chemical and biological species. The MCL method offers significant benefits, primarily owing to its high sensitivity, which enables the detection of cantilever motion with sub-nanometer precision. Additionally, this method is well-suited for fabrication into a multi-element sensor array, further enhancing its capabilities. Most of the sensors are based on adsorption-induced frequency or surface stress changes of MCLs. Multiple review articles on this concept have been published, but no review has been published summarizing the MCL sensors with a focus on reactions. Other than detecting chemical species, another unique application of MCLs is their ability to characterize the morphology and mechanical properties of materials on a solid-liquid or solid-gas interface during a reaction process. We will review the reaction-based MCL sensors and also their potential applications in monitoring reactions in this short review article.
Nutrition in Pancreatic Diseases: A Roadmap for the Gastroenterologist
Authors: Cúrdia Gonçalves Tiago , Capela Tiago Lima , Cotter José
Published: July 2023

While common pancreatic diseases, such as acute pancreatitis (AP), chronic pancreatitis (CP), and pancreatic cancer (PC), may greatly impact the normal pancreatic physiology and contribute to malnutrition, the adequate nutritional approach when those conditions are present significantly influences patients’ prognosis. In patients with AP, the goals of nutritional care are to prevent malnutrition, correct a negative nitrogen balance, reduce inflammation, and improve outcomes such as local and systemic complications and mortality. Malnutrition in patients with CP is common but often a late manifestation of the disease, leading to decreased functional capacity and quality of life and increased risk of developing significant osteopathy, postoperative complications, hospitalization, and mortality. Cancer-related malnutrition is common in patients with PC, and it is now well recognized that early nutritional support can favorably impact survival, not only by increasing tolerance and response to disease treatments but also by improving quality of life and decreasing postoperative complications. The aim of this review was to emphasize the role of nutrition and to propose a systematic nutritional approach in patients with AP, CP, and PC.
Useful Ink-Shitters and Decorative Excellencies: The Difficult Relationship Between Ministers of State and Courtiers in Brandenburg-Prussia and France, c. 1650–1800
Authors: Horowski Leonhard
Published: July 2023

The notion that early modern ministers of state were useful functionaries and thus the very opposite of ridiculously parasitic courtiers is something traditional historians of ancien régime France and Brandenburg-Prussia could have agreed on, even though these states were otherwise assumed to have been polar opposites. Once new research had shown that both groups were in fact part of the same system of power and status in both states, simply reversing the judgement became as tempting as it would be misleading. It is true that both France and Brandenburg-Prussia developed what one may only semi-facetiously call relatively absolutist systems, and that both states set out to do so with an elite clearly divided into an old chivalric and a new judicial nobility. Yet their subsequent trajectories not only provide us with two interesting variations on the theme of elite integration; more importantly, this article argues that a closer look at these processes will disprove the currently dominant interpretations of both cases. In France, co-operation, social mobility and (decreasing) intermarriage between noblesse d’épée and noblesse de robe, far from proving their alleged fusion, were in fact the necessary consequences of what remained a sharp functional differentiation right up to 1789. Instead, it was Prussia which saw an actual fusion of both groups into a social elite that was not only much more court-orientated than hitherto assumed, but also (and somewhat ironically) both less military and less socially open than its French counterpart.
A comparison of stiffness of six knee braces with application for posterolateral corner reconstructions
Authors: Hickie Kirsten , Qiu Yuelin , Baptiste Jonelle Jn , Salipas Andrew , Nathanail Stephanie , Westover Lindsey , Sommerfeldt Mark
Published: July 2023

Posterolateral corner knee injuries are clinically significant, and often require surgical reconstruction. The optimal knee brace following posterolateral corner reconstructions has not yet been determined via clinical nor biomechanical study. We sought to evaluate the stiffness of six types of knee braces to determine the ideal brace type for reducing varus forces, which may have clinical utility for posterolateral corner knee reconstruction rehabilitation. Six different groups of knee braces underwent mechanical testing: cruciate braces, cruciate braces with a valgus bend, medial unloaders, articulating sleeves, hinged braces, and tri-panel immobilizers. Each brace was fitted to the same fiberglass leg model and was secured to the testing apparatus. Force was applied under four-point bending to generate a varus moment about the artificial knee. The stiffness in Newtons per millimeter (N/mm) of each brace was calculated from the slope of the force-displacement curve. The cruciate brace with a valgus bend had the highest average stiffness at 192.61 N/mm (SD 28.53). The articulating sleeve was the least stiff with an average stiffness of 49.86 N/mm (SD 8.99). Stiffness of the cruciate brace was not statistically different compared to cruciate valgus ( p = 0.083) or medial unloader ( p = 0.098). In this experimental design, a cruciate brace with a valgus bend was shown to have the highest overall stiffness, while an articulating sleeve had the lowest stiffness. Future work will investigate whether this translates into clinical performance.
Ce que nous faisons, et ce que l'on nous fait. Les luttes politiques universitaires
Authors: Ibos Caroline , Fassin Éric
Published: July 2023

In France, successive Ministers of the Interior systematically come to the defense of the police. By contrast, their colleagues in Higher Education and Research don't hesitate to join in attacks on academics. This is how Frédérique Vidal ended up in 2021 echoing the polemics launched the year before by the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, and then by the Minister of National Education, Jean-Michel Blanquer. However, the campaign against “Islamo-leftism” was preceded by other offensives against higher education and research: university autonomy was thus challenged … in the name of autonomy. As the reforms have progressed, higher education and research have been subjected to an authoritarian neoliberal regime, under the leadership of managers rather than colleagues, in a logic of competition that is supposed to guarantee excellence at the service of the economy. Just like a company, isn't the CNRS run by a CEO? Today, the takeover of ESR is inseparably ideological and economic. Thus, the increase in university fees for non-Europeans has used xenophobia to promote a neoliberal conception of studies. The threats to the academic world cannot be understood without articulating these distinct but intertwined logics. How can we tell the story of the attacks we are suffering, without erasing the struggles we are waging? For there is a great risk, in taking power as the object, of underestimating the role of counterpower that academics can still play in a country that is heir to a tradition of the “intellectual” as a figure of commitment. On the one hand, the multiple offensives of successive governments, whether directed at university policy or academics, have met with considerable resistance. Far from being reduced to inaction, the academic world is mobilizing strongly. But it's not just a question of reaction. On the other hand, the governmental campaigns themselves must be understood as forms of reaction against the politicization of academics: far from being passive victims, they play an active role. This is precisely the reason why ministers try to bring them into line: in France, the university is not isolated from society, as a campus can be. Critical knowledge circulates with social movements. In other words, campaigns targeting the academic world are proof that it is not without political importance. It's a form of recognition of the role it plays and can play. Anti-university politics today can be understood as a game of action and dreaction.
An open-ended approach to evaluating students’ citizenship competences: The use of rubrics
Authors: Daas Remmert , Dijkstra Anne Bert , Karsten Sjoerd , ten Dam Geert
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we develop an open-ended approach to evaluating students’ citizenship competences. We aim to give students the opportunity to describe what citizenship means for them in personally relevant contexts. We developed three rubrics relevant to students’ citizenship in daily life. Students in grade 10 and 11( Mage = 16) evaluated their competences or completed an assignment which was assessed using rubrics. The results show that for both approaches, the majority of students were able to provide relevant input pertaining to their citizenship competences. However, students’ explanations were often brief, limiting the personal context they provided and the extent to which they demonstrated higher levels of proficiency. This study shows that employing rubrics for an open-ended approach to assessing citizenship competences shows promise in allowing students to share and elaborate upon their experiences and viewpoints, but more focus is needed on improving the quantity and quality of student input.
Validity of a wearable device for measuring vertical displacement and jump count in young artistic roller skating athletes
Authors: Rebelo André , Teixeira Diogo Santos , Valente-dos-Santos João , Lima Ricardo Franco
Published: July 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the validity of a small inertial sensor (Vert IMU) for measuring vertical displacement and jump count in young female artistic roller skating athletes. Two separate investigations were completed. In the first, 12 subjects were asked to perform 24 jumps each, and jump heights were simultaneously assessed by the Optojump photocells (criterion instrument) and by the Vert IMU and compared to evaluate concurrent validity of this latter system. The second investigation evaluated the capacity of the Vert to correctly identify jumps during training sessions. The correlation between the Vert device and the Optojump was strong for all jump types ( r = 0.84–0.95), except for the double Salchow which had a moderate correlation ( r = 0.55). All 288 jumps in Investigation One had a significant ( p < 0.001) mean bias of 9.96 cm with limits of agreement ranging from 1.58 to 18.34 cm. The results of Investigation Two indicate the Vert has excellent precision for all jump types analysed (0.968). In the elite group, recall was excellent for all jumps (0.900–1.000) besides the single Loop (0.364) and the single Thoren (0.444). However, in the sub-elite group, recall was excellent only in three jumps. The Vert device can offer a benefit in the sporting environment due to its capacity to provide near real time jumping data with limited resources. Some limitations regarding non-elite athletes may warrant some attention due to their lower vertical displacement ability and less-developed technical gestures in artistic jumping.