bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A geometric framework for asymptoticity and expansivity in topological dynamics
Authors: Donoso Sebastián , Maass Alejandro , Petite Samuel
Published: July 2024

In this paper we develop a geometric framework to address asymptoticity and nonexpansivity in topological dynamics when the acting group is second countable and locally compact. As an application, we show extensions of Schwartzman’s theorem in this context. Also, we get new results when the acting group is

Z

d

{\mathbb Z}^d

: any half-space of

R

d

\mathbb {R}^d

contains a vector defining a (oriented) nonexpansive direction in the sense of Boyle and Lind. Finally, we deduce rigidity properties of distal Cantor systems.
A systematic review of fall prediction models for community-dwelling older adults: comparison between models based on research cohorts and models based on routinely collected data
Authors: Dormosh Noman , van de Loo Bob , Heymans Martijn W , Schut Martijn C , Medlock Stephanie , van Schoor Natasja M , van der Velde Nathalie , Abu-Hanna Ameen
Published: July 2024

Background

Prediction models can identify fall-prone individuals. Prediction models can be based on either data from research cohorts (cohort-based) or routinely collected data (RCD-based). We review and compare cohort-based and RCD-based studies describing the development and/or validation of fall prediction models for community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

Medline and Embase were searched via Ovid until January 2023. We included studies describing the development or validation of multivariable prediction models of falls in older adults (60+). Both risk of bias and reporting quality were assessed using the PROBAST and TRIPOD, respectively.

Results

We included and reviewed 28 relevant studies, describing 30 prediction models (23 cohort-based and 7 RCD-based), and external validation of two existing models (one cohort-based and one RCD-based). The median sample sizes for cohort-based and RCD-based studies were 1365 [interquartile range (IQR) 426–2766] versus 90 441 (IQR 56 442–128 157), and the ranges of fall rates were 5.4% to 60.4% versus 1.6% to 13.1%, respectively. Discrimination performance was comparable between cohort-based and RCD-based models, with the respective area under the receiver operating characteristic curves ranging from 0.65 to 0.88 versus 0.71 to 0.81. The median number of predictors in cohort-based final models was 6 (IQR 5–11); for RCD-based models, it was 16 (IQR 11–26). All but one cohort-based model had high bias risks, primarily due to deficiencies in statistical analysis and outcome determination.

Conclusions

Cohort-based models to predict falls in older adults in the community are plentiful. RCD-based models are yet in their infancy but provide comparable predictive performance with no additional data collection efforts. Future studies should focus on methodological and reporting quality.
Full employment as a condition of crisis: Kalecki’s Marxian critique of Keynes and the Fabians (1942–45)
Authors: Lampa Roberto
Published: July 2024

Between 1942 and 1945, Kalecki emphasised the incompatibility between capitalism and full employment. Rather than stabilising market economies, full employment would have triggered social conflict by providing self-confidence amongst the workers and the lower strata of society. Accordingly, in any program of social transformation, the initial condition that had to be established was (guaranteed) full employment and economic security for workers to alter the game’s rules. Like Marx, full employment of resources became a condition of crisis in a capitalist economy. Upon this premise, Kalecki rejected both Keynes’s and the Fabians’ views, according to which full employment was essentially a technical operation to be achieved by intellectual persuasion and some basic control. The emphasis on persuasion implied an overestimation of the role of economic theory, meant as a method of moulding ideas and opinions of the country leaders. On the other hand, the lack of institutional analysis implied that full employment became a mere tool to guarantee capitalism’s correct functioning. Kalecki’s stance reflected his different background, both methodological and political.
Relation Between the Dantu Blood Group Variant and Bacteremia in Kenyan Children: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Kariuki Silvia N , Gilchrist James J , Uyoga Sophie , Macharia Alexander , Makale Johnstone , Rayner Julian C , Williams Thomas N
Published: July 2024

Background

The Dantu blood group variant protects against Plasmodium falciparum infections, but its wider consequences have not been previously explored. Here, we investigate the impact of Dantu on susceptibility to bacteremia.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study in children presenting with community-acquired bacteremia to Kilifi County Hospital in Kenya between 1998 and 2010. We used logistic regression to test for associations between the Dantu marker single-nucleotide polymorphism rs186873296 A > G and both all-cause and pathogen-specific bacteremia under an additive model. We used date of admission as a proxy measure of malaria transmission intensity, given known differences in malaria prevalence over the course of the study.

Results

Dantu was associated with protection from all-cause bacteremia (OR, 0.81; P = .014), the association being greatest in homozygotes (OR, 0.30; P = .013). This protection was shared across the major bacterial pathogens but, notably, was only significant during the era of high malaria transmission pre-2003 (OR, 0.79; P = .023).

Conclusions

Consistent with previous studies showing the indirect impact on bacteremia risk of other malaria-associated red cell variants, our study also shows that Dantu is protective against bacteremia via its effect on malaria risk. Dantu does not appear to be under balancing selection through an increased risk of bacterial infections.
Fragmentation of dense rotation-dominated structures fed by collapsing gravo-magneto-sheetlets and origin of misaligned 100 au-scale binaries and multiple systems
Authors: Tu Yisheng , Li Zhi-Yun , Zhu Zhaohuan , Hsu Chun-Yen
Published: July 2024

The majority of stars are in binary/multiple systems. How such systems form in turbulent, magnetized cores of molecular clouds in the presence of non-ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effects remains relatively underexplored. Through athena++-based non-ideal MHD adaptive mesh refinement simulations with ambipolar diffusion, we show that the collapsing protostellar envelope is dominated by dense gravo-magneto-sheetlets, a turbulence-warped version of the classic pseudodisc produced by anisotropic magnetic resistance to the gravitational collapse, in agreement with previous simulations of turbulent, magnetized single-star formation. The sheetlets feed mass, magnetic fields, and angular momentum to a Dense ROtation-Dominated (DROD) structure, which fragments into binary/multiple systems. This DROD fragmentation scenario is a more dynamic variant of the traditional disc fragmentation scenario for binary/multiple formation, with dense spiral filaments created by inhomogeneous feeding from the highly structured larger-scale sheetlets rather than the need for angular momentum transport, which is dominated by magnetic braking. Provided that the local material is sufficiently demagnetized, with a plasma-$\beta$ of 10 or more, collisions between the dense spiralling filaments play a key role in facilitating gravitational collapse and stellar companion formation by pushing the local magnetic Toomre parameter $Q_\mathrm{m}$ below unity. This mechanism can naturally produce in situ misaligned systems on the 100-au scale, often detected with high-resolution Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) observations. Our simulations also highlight the importance of non-ideal MHD effects, which affect whether fragmentation occurs and, if so, the masses and orbital parameters of the stellar companions formed.
Compositions of the Hercules–Aquila Cloud and Virgo Overdensity
Authors: Ye Dashuang , Du Cuihua , Deng Mingji , Liao Jiwei , Huang Yang , Shi Jianrong , Ma Jun
Published: July 2024

Based on a sample of K giant from Large sky Area Multi-Object fibre Spectroscopic Telescope Data Release 8 and a sample of RR Lyrae (RRL) from Gaia Data Release 3, we investigate the compositions of the Hercules–Aquila Cloud (HAC) and Virgo Overdensity (VOD) and their collective contribution to the tilt and triaxiality of the stellar halo ($r\, \lt \, 40\, {\rm kpc}$) as well as two breaks at $\approx 15\, {\rm kpc}$ and 30 kpc. We apply the Gaussian mixture model to divide the stellar halo into the isotropic component and the radially biased anisotropic component, namely Gaia–Sausage–Enceladus (GSE), and find that both HAC and VOD are dominated by the GSE debris stars with weights of $0.67^{+0.09}_{-0.07}$ and $0.57^{+0.07}_{-0.06}$, respectively. In addition, using the K giants with orbital parameters, we identify the member stars of known substructures, including GSE, Sagittarius (Sgr), Helmi Streams, Sequoia, Thamnos, Pontus, Wukong, and Metal-weak Thick Disc, to probe the compositions of low-eccentricity stars in the HAC and VOD regions. In density fittings of the RRL sample, we note that the absence of HAC and VOD has a weak effect on the shape of halo. Finally, we find that the radially biased anisotropic halo contributes majorly to the stellar halo that can be modelled with a tilted triaxial ellipsoid and a doubly broken power law with breaking radii at $18.08^{+2.04}_{-3.22}\, {\rm kpc}$ and $33.03^{+1.30}_{-1.21}\, {\rm kpc}$. This has important significance for understanding the status of large diffuse overdensities in the Milky Way.
A detailed chemical study of the extreme velocity stars in the galaxy
Authors: Nelson Tyler , Hawkins Keith , Reggiani Henrique , Garza Diego , Wyse Rosemary F G , Woody Turner
Published: July 2024

Two decades on, the study of hypervelocity stars is still in its infancy. These stars can provide novel constraints on the total mass of the Galaxy and its dark matter distribution. However how these stars are accelerated to such high velocities is unclear. Various proposed production mechanisms for these stars can be distinguished using chemo-dynamic tagging. The advent of Gaia and other large surveys have provided hundreds of candidate hyper velocity objects to target for ground-based high-resolution follow-up observations. We conduct high-resolution spectroscopic follow-up observations of 16 candidate late-type hyper velocity stars using the Apache Point Observatory and the McDonald Observatory. We derive atmospheric parameters and chemical abundances for these stars. We measure up to 22 elements, including the following nucleosynthetic families: $\alpha$ (Mg, Si, Ca, and Ti), light/odd-Z (Na, Al, V, Cu, and Sc), Fe-peak (Fe, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, and Zn), and neutron capture (Sr, Y, Zr, Ba, La, Nd, and Eu). Our kinematic analysis shows one candidate is unbound, two are marginally bound, and the remainder are bound to the Galaxy. Finally, for the three unbound or marginally bound stars, we perform orbit integration to locate possible globular cluster or dwarf galaxy progenitors. We do not find any likely candidate systems for these stars and conclude that the unbound stars are likely from the the stellar halo, in agreement with the chemical results. The remaining bound stars are all chemically consistent with the stellar halo as well.
Formation of millisecond pulsars with wide orbits
Authors: Wang Bo , Liu Dongdong , Guo Yunlang , Chen Hailiang , Tang Wenshi , Li Luhan , Han Zhanwen
Published: July 2024

Millisecond pulsars (MSPs) are a kind of radio pulsars with short spin periods, playing a key role in many aspects of stellar astrophysics. In recent years, some more MSPs with wide orbits ($\gt 30\, \rm d$) have been discovered, but their origin is still highly unclear. In this work, according to an adiabatic power-law assumption for the mass-transfer process, we carried out a large number of complete binary evolution computations for the formation of MSPs with wide orbits through the iron core-collapse supernova (CCSN) channel, in which a neutron star originating from a CCSN accretes matter from a red-giant star and spun up to millisecond periods. We found that this channel can form the observed MSPs with wide orbits in the range of $30\!-\!1200\, {\rm d}$, in which the white dwarf (WD) companions have masses in the range of $0.28\!-\!0.55\, \rm M_{\odot }$. We also found that almost all the observed MSPs can be reproduced by this channel in the WD companion mass versus orbital period diagram. We estimate that the Galactic numbers of the resulting MSPs from the CCSN channel are in the range of $\sim 4.8\!-\!8.5\times 10^{5}$. Compared with the accretion-induced collapse channel, the CCSN channel provides a main way to produce MSPs with wide orbits.
Continuum spectrum of atomic lithium in a magnetic field of white dwarfs
Authors: Zhao L B , Wang K D , Liu F L
Published: July 2024

This paper reports on computational results of continuum spectra of atomic lithium in white-dwarf-strength magnetic fields. The adiabatic-basis-expansion method with R-matrix propagation has been used to study photoionization of magnetized alkali metal atoms. The R-matrix propagation technique and the two-dimensional matching scheme were utilized to obtain wavefunctions of the continuum states. Cross-sections of photoionization are calculated for lithium atoms in magnetic fields. Continuum spectra for its various bound-free transitions in magnetic white dwarf stars are presented as a function of field strengths ranging from 11.75 to 117.50 MG. Comparison is made between continuum spectra of diamagnetic hydrogen and lithium atoms. The comparison shows good agreement or remarkable difference for final continuum states with different symmetries in the photoionization processes concerned. A detailed analysis has been performed to understand the obtained results. The good agreement displayed manifests the reliability of the extended adiabatic-basis-expansion method. This method is suited to produce a large number of photoionization cross-section data for alkali metal atoms in a strong magnetic field, and therefore can serve as a tool to simulate continuum spectra observed in the atmospheres of magnetic white dwarfs with alkali metal atoms.
Strong nebular emissions associated with Mg ii absorptions detected in the SDSS spectra of background quasars
Authors: Guha Labanya Kumar , Srianand Raghunathan
Published: July 2024

We present long-slit spectroscopic observations of 40 Galaxy On Top of Quasars (GOTOQs) at ${0.37 \leqslant z \leqslant 1.01}$ using the South African Large Telescope. Using this and available photometric data, we measure the impact parameters of the foreground galaxies to be in the range of 3–16 kpc with a median value of 8.6 kpc. This is the largest sample of galaxies producing Mg ii absorption at such low impact parameters. These quasar–galaxy pairs are ideal for probing the disc–halo interface. At such impact parameters, we do not find any anticorrelation between rest equivalent width (REW) of Ca ii, Mn ii, Fe ii, Mg ii, and Mg i absorption and impact parameter. These sight lines are typically redder than those of strong Mg ii absorbers, with the colour excess, E(B − V) for our sample ranging from −0.191 to 0.422, with a median value of 0.058. In the E(B − V) versus W3935 plane, GOTOQs occupy the same region as Ca ii absorbers. For a given E(B − V), we find larger W3935 than what has been found in the Milky Way, probably due to a smaller dust-to-gas ratio in GOTOQs. Galaxy parameters could be measured for twelve cases, and their properties seem to follow the trends found for strong Mg ii absorbers. Measuring the host galaxy properties for the full sample using HST photometry or AO-assisted ground-based imaging is important to gain insights into the relationship between the stellar mass of galaxies and the metal line REW distributions at low impact parameters.
On the northward shift of the heliospheric current sheet at the end of solar cycle 24
Authors: Li Huichao , Feng Xueshang
Published: July 2024

Since solar cycle 16, the heliospheric current sheet (HCS) has been found to be shifted southward during the late declining to minimum phase. However, this trend is broken at the end of solar cycle 24. In this paper, we analyse the shift of the HCS by using information obtained from coronal model and in situ data provided by the near-Earth OMNI data base and the Parker Solar Probe (PSP). Coronal potential field source surface modelling results show that the northward shift is established at the beginning of 2018 and remains stable for about 2 yr. Interplanetary magnetic field data obtained from and within 1 au also support the northward shift, as the southern polarity T appears more frequently than the northern polarity A between 2018 and 2020. Both model results and in situ observation obtained by PSP imply that the HCS shift is established in the corona, and then propagates into the heliosphere. The quadrupole term still has a significant influence on the formation of the HCS shift.
1‐Deoxynojirimycin attenuates pathological markers of Alzheimer's disease in the in vitro model of neuronal insulin resistance
Authors: Parida Isabella Supardi , Takasu Soo , Ito Junya , Eitsuka Takahiro , Nakagawa Kiyotaka
Published: July 2024

Insulin resistance, the hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), has emerged as a pathological feature in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Given the shared role of insulin resistance in T2DM and AD, repurposing peripheral insulin sensitizers is a promising strategy to preserve neuronal insulin sensitivity and prevent AD. 1‐Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a bioactive iminosugar, exhibited insulin‐sensitizing effects in metabolic tissues and was detected in brain tissue post‐oral intake. However, its impact on brain and neuronal insulin signaling has not been described. Here, we investigated the effect of DNJ treatment on insulin signaling and AD markers in insulin‐resistant human SK‐N‐SH neuroblastoma, a cellular model of neuronal insulin resistance. Our findings show that DNJ increased the expression of insulin signaling genes and the phosphorylation status of key molecules implicated in insulin resistance (Y1146‐pIRβ, S473‐pAKT, S9‐GSK3B) while also elevating the expression of glucose transporters Glut3 and Glut4, resulting in higher glucose uptake upon insulin stimuli. DNJ appeared to mitigate the insulin resistance‐driven increase in phosphorylated tau and Aβ1‐42 levels by promoting insulin‐induced phosphorylation of GSK3B (a major tau kinase) and enhancing mRNA expression of the insulin‐degrading enzyme (IDE) pivotal for insulin and Aβ clearance. Overall, our study unveils probable mechanisms underlying the potential benefits of DNJ for AD, wherein DNJ attenuates tau and amyloid pathologies by reversing neuronal insulin resistance. This provides a scientific basis for expanding the use of DNJ‐containing products for neuroprotective purposes and prompts further research into compounds with similar mechanisms of action.
Evaluation and management of febrile neutropenia in patients with cancer
Authors: Cossey Jason , Cote Mary Claire B.
Published: July 2024

Febrile neutropenia is a common oncologic emergency that increases the risk for serious infection. This article reviews a joint American Society of Clinical Oncology and Infectious Diseases Society of America guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with cancer who present with fever and neutropenia. Knowledge and use of available risk assessment tools may reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, decrease inappropriate antibiotic use, and improve patient outcomes.
Treatment of Hand and Wrist Cartilage Defects in Athletes
Authors: Ravella Krishna C. , Yao Jeffrey
Published: July 2024

Cartilage injuries of the hand and wrist can be debilitating in the athlete. Diagnosis is difficult given the broad spectrum of presenting symptomatology. History and physical examination is crucial to achieve the correct diagnosis, and advanced imaging can offer helpful assistance to the clinician as well. TFCC injuries and ulnar impaction syndrome are among the most common conditions in athletes with hand and wrist pain. Treatment of these injuries is initially nonoperative, but elite athletes may elect to bypass nonoperative treatment in favor of earlier return to sport. Surgical treatment varies but can include open and arthroscopic methods. The clinician should tailor treatment plans to each athlete based on level of competition, type of sport, and individual preferences and goals.
Mycoplasma genitalium's Antibiotic Resistance in Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinics in Israel
Authors: Azrad Maya , Saleh Nora , Zur Inbar Yorish , Becker Daniella , Shiloah Noga , Habib Sonia , Peretz Avi
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance rate in Mycoplasma genitalium, and distribution of mutations associated with this resistance, among patients that attended sexually transmitted infections (STI) investigation clinics.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study included M. genitalium-positive samples (urine, vaginal, rectal, and pharyngeal swabs) collected from 170 patients attending two STI investigation clinics, which were subjected to macrolide and quinolone resistance mutations analyses. Data regarding patient age, sex, and material/anatomical site of testing were collected.

Results

Macrolide-resistance mutations were identified in 48.8% of samples and were more common among males (p < .0001) and in rectal samples (p < .05). A2059C was the most prevalent macrolide-resistance mutation (18.2%). Quinolone resistance was detected in 23% of the samples, with S83I being the most common (17.1%) mutation. Rate of co-resistance to macrolides and quinolones was 21.2%.

Conclusions

The high rate of antibiotic resistance found in the current study, especially to macrolides, underscores the importance of antibiotic resistance monitoring in M. genitalium isolates in cases of persistent or recurrent urethritis/cervicitis, in cases of treatment failure and among specific populations. Such surveillance will improve treatment regimens and cure rates.
Design of a stand-alone hybrid dispersed generation network unified by passivity-based control
Authors: Manohar Rutvika , Hikihara Takashi
Published: July 2024

In this article, we propose a model for a stand-alone hybrid distributed generation system. In this model, the input sources are distributed DC sources like solar panels or batteries. The idea behind this network framework is to introduce a hybrid DC/AC network, feasible for small and remotely located areas with stand-alone DC grids, in the vicinity of larger towns requiring a functional AC connection. The behaviour of the system in the steady state is analysed, and the network is mathematically represented with port-controlled Hamiltonian modelling. Stabilization to the desired voltage, both AC as well as DC, is attained with nonlinear passivity-based control taking into consideration not only the energy characteristics but also the inherent physical structure.
Strong site fidelity, residency and local behaviour of Atlantic cod (
Gadus morhua
) at two types of artificial reefs in an offshore wind farm
Authors: Berges B. J. P. , Knaap I. van der , van Keeken O. A. , Reubens J. , Winter H. V.
Published: July 2024

Globally, biogenic temperate reefs are among the most threatened habitats. In the North Sea in particular, large shellfish reefs were lost owing to fishing activities in the 1900s. The impact of offshore wind farms (OWFs) on marine wildlife is extensive, and it offers the possibility to reintroduce new hard substrate habitats that are protected from fisheries at a large scale. In addition to the submerged structures of OWFs, marine hard substrate habitat can be further enhanced by providing extra artificial reefs. In an operational OWF along the Dutch coast, four artificial reefs (two with a scour bed and two without) were deployed in the vicinity of a wind turbine. Acoustic telemetry was used to monitor the fine-scale movement of 64 Atlantic cod (
Gadus morhua
). The monitoring ran from July 2021 to January 2023. Detailed information on behaviour, area utilization and attraction to the structures was determined. Results showed strong attraction (high site fidelity and residency) to the artificial reef, with no significant difference between the two tested types of reefs, and only a few individuals staying over winter. Cod spent a large proportion of their time hiding in the artificial reefs, suggesting that adding pipes for shelter has a beneficiary effect.
Detecting phase transitions in lattice gauge theories: Production and dissolution of topological defects in 4D compact electrodynamics
Authors: Di Cairano Loris , Gori Matteo , Sarkis Matthieu , Tkatchenko Alexandre
Published: July 2024

We present the application of microcanonical inflection point analysis (MIPA)—a novel and powerful method for the systematic identification and classification of phase transitions (PTs)—to the microcanonical formulation of lattice gauge theories. Specifically, we explore how this approach sheds light on collective phenomena such as the emergence of topological order in quantum field theories. As a case study, we show how to systematically characterize PTs in 4D U(1) lattice electrodynamics. Beyond identifying the well-established deconfinement PT (DPT) associated with pair dissolution, classified as a first-order PT, we uncover two higher-order PTs not observed before. Thanks to the application of the MIPA, we identify an independent third-order PT in the confined phase and indications of a dependent third-order PT in the deconfined (Coulomb) phase. To gain physical insights into these PTs, we numerically compute the average number density of monopolar and pair defects as a function of energy. Notably, our findings reveal that the pair dissolution mechanism extends beyond a singular transitional phenomenon coinciding with the DPT. Instead, it encompasses a spectrum of transitional phenomena, as indicated by the rates of acceleration and deceleration in the dissolution of pairs as a function of energy. Finally, we briefly discuss how such a method can be extended to more complex quantum field theories on a lattice.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Polarization dynamics in the paramagnet of a charged quark-gluon plasma
Authors: Dong Lihua , Lin Shu
Published: July 2024

It is commonly understood that the strong magnetic field produced in heavy ion collisions is short-lived. The electric conductivity of the quark-gluon plasma is unable to significantly extend the lifetime of the magnetic field. We propose an alternative scenario to achieve this: with finite baryon density and spin polarization by the initial magnetic field, the quark-gluon plasma behaves as a paramagnet, which may continue to polarize the quark after fading of the initial magnetic field. We confirm this picture by calculations in both quantum electrodynamics and quantum chromodynamics. In the former case, we find a splitting in the damping rates of probe fermions with an opposite spin component along the magnetic field. In the latter case, we find a similar splitting in damping rate of the probe quark in quark-gluon plasma in both high and low density limits. The splitting provides a way of polarizing strange quarks by the quark-gluon plasma paramagnet consisting of light quarks, which effectively extends the lifetime of the magnetic field in heavy ion collisions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Constraints on quantum spacetime-induced decoherence from neutrino oscillations
Authors: D’Esposito Vittorio , Gubitosi Giulia
Published: July 2024

We investigate the implications of decoherence induced by quantum spacetime properties on neutrino oscillation phenomena. We develop a general formalism where the evolution of neutrinos is governed by a Lindblad-type equation and we compute the oscillation damping factor for various models that have been proposed in the literature. Furthermore, we discuss the sensitivity to these effects of different types of neutrino oscillation experiments, encompassing astrophysical, atmospheric, solar, and reactor neutrino experiments. By using neutrino oscillation data from long-baseline reactors and atmospheric neutrino observations, we establish stringent constraints on the energy scale governing the strength of the decoherence induced by stochastic metric fluctuations, amounting to, respectively, EQG≥2.6×1034 GeV and EQG≥2.5×1055  GeV.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Toward a Ginsparg-Wilson lattice Hamiltonian
Authors: Clancy Michael
Published: July 2024

To address quantum computation of quantities in quantum chromodynamics (QCD) for which chiral symmetry is important, it would be useful to have the Hamiltonian for a fermion satisfying the Ginsparg-Wilson (GW) equation. I work with a solution to the GW equation which is fractional linear in time derivatives. The resulting Hamiltonian is nonlocal and has ghosts, but is free of doublers and has the correct continuum limit. This construction works in general odd spatial dimensions, and I provide an explicit expression for the Hamiltonian in one spatial dimension.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Susceptibility to social influence the mediating role of perceived risk and attitudes when considering a counterfeit purchase choice
Authors: Garas Sally Raouf Ragheb
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The study aims to better understand the impact of susceptibility to social influence (normative and informational) on perceived risk and the consequent impacts on attitudes towards counterfeiting and intention to purchase counterfeit brands.

Design/methodology/approach

A single cross-sectional descriptive research was employed, and questionnaires were used to collect data from 361 counterfeit buyers. Structural equation modelling (SEM) based on partial least squares (PLS-SEM) was applied to analyse data and test the research hypotheses.

Findings

Results showed that normative susceptibility to social influence significantly increased attitudes towards counterfeiting but not purchase intention; its impact on intention was mediated by perceived risk and attitudes. Although information susceptibility to social influence increased purchase intention, it had no significant impact on attitudes and perceived risk.

Originality/value

The current study empirically explores the relationship between susceptibility to social influence and perceived risk in the context of non-deceptive counterfeit consumption, by integrating the foundations of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and social cognitive theory (SCT).
Piercing the corporate veil in Mauritius: a comparative study with the United Kingdom
Authors: Mahadew Bhavna
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to bring clarity to the concept of piercing the veil of incorporation in Mauritius. This will allow students, researchers, academics and practitioners to engage further in research on the topic of incorporation of companies.

Design/methodology/approach

To conduct the study, the doctrinal legal research approach will be used. The inquiry will examine the numerous laws and case laws that permit the lifting of the corporate veil, so exposing the agents of the corporation to accountability on both a criminal and civil level. A comparison of Mauritius and the UK legal systems will be conducted to assess the efficacy of the former.

Findings

There are significant loopholes in the legislative framework of Mauritius regarding various corporate offences that are highly encouraged because of the limited circumstances under which courts may lift the corporate veil. There is a need for specific legislation to be enacted by Parliament to address these specific offences. Inspiration should be drawn from the UK’s robust legislative framework on the matter.

Originality/value

Literature on the subject in Mauritius deals mostly with factual information on the doctrine of separate legal personality and the various exceptions under which the veil of incorporation may be lifted. However, there is a scarcity of research on the various fraudulent activities and their implications on the company that go unnoticed and unpunished because of loopholes in the legal framework. This paper attempts to fill this important gap.
Employee readiness for change: examining the combined effects of individual and organizational demands in public school reform
Authors: Kalbermatten Cyrill Julian
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to clarify how work-specific characteristics at both the individual and organizational level influence professional civil servants’ readiness for change during the implementation of reforms in public administration. We examine the influence of work characteristics at the individual and organizational levels, such as reform-related strains, organizational climate, and organizational professionalism, on the employees’ response to change. In addition, we also consider the interaction between these specific work characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

This article employs a quantitative multi-level analysis to examine the influence of individual and collective predictors of employees' readiness for change. For our analysis, we used data from the evaluation of a school reform in Switzerland aimed at aligning teachers' working conditions with those of other administrative employees. The survey conducted for the evaluation includes responses from 2,162 teachers.

Findings

Our study expands the understanding in public management research of work characteristics that either promote or reduce employees’ readiness for change in the public sector. Our findings suggest that the organizational level, in our case the school level, influences the individual’s response to change. Furthermore, the role of organizational professionalism in terms of a reform-related transformation of the identities, structures, and practices of the actors concerned is highlighted as a potential stressor and catalyst that reinforces the negative correlation between reform-related stress and willingness to change.

Practical implications

This paper offers insights into how public managers can effectively overcome challenges in the implementation process of public school reforms. This also includes the awareness among change agents that positively associated changes at the organizational level may have negative consequences at the individual level, due to the fact that they affect professional understanding, for example, which may cause the affected actors to respond with resistance.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the small number of multi-level research studies on the responses to change in public administration and answers the call for research to investigate the hurdles that may arise when implementing change. Further, the paper contributes to the literature on the impact of new public management (NPM) on the identity of professional civil servants.
Converting and evolving a subject heading list into a thesaurus
Authors: Guaglianone Maria Teresa , Aracri Giovanna , Taverniti Maria
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to describe the evolution of the available subject heading list, i.e. the CC Soggettario (Carabinieri Corps Soggettario), towards a thesaurus, that is CCThes (Carabinieri Corps Thesaurus), to support subject indexing and retrieval of the documentary heritage held by the Historical Office of the General Command of the Carabinieri Corps. This work follows the need to implement a controlled vocabulary compliant with the state-of-the-art standards.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology implements the practice of reengineering available vocabularies, following standardised guidelines for thesaurus development. The conversion process includes the balance maintenance of what has been achieved in the CC Soggettario and the enrichment of the semantic structure in the thesaurus by using both deductive and inductive methods.

Findings

The main result of this study is a thesaurus compliant with ISO 29964-1:2011 recommendations, which improves information retrieval performances and interoperability with other vocabularies and applications. It generally has a mono-hierarchical structure with the possibility of admitting, as an exception, the poly-hierarchy for a few concepts. An introductive user guide has been created as a complementary tool to the CCThes.

Originality/value

This is an applied study which deals with Knowledge Organisation System (KOS) reengineering and outlines this process using a pragmatic approach. The paper strength lies in providing the description of performed activities and conveying a set of resources to approach KOS reengineering practice. The study is also relevant for the preservation and diffusion of a part of the social memory and identity of Italy.
Investigating surfaces, geometry and degree of fusion of tracks printed using fused deposition modelling to optimise process parameters for polymeric materials at meso-scale
Authors: Mwania Fredrick , Maringa Maina , Nsengimana Joseph , van der Walt Jacobus Gert
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The current analysis was conducted to investigate the quality of surfaces and geometry of tracks printed using PolyMideTM CoPA, PolymaxTM PC and PolyMideTM PA6-CF materials through fused deposition modelling (FDM). This study also examined the degree of fusion of adjacent filaments (tracks) to approximate the optimal process parameters of the three materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Images of fused adjacent filaments were acquired using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), after which, they were analysed using Image J Software and Minitab Software to determine the optimal process parameters.

Findings

The optimal process parameters for PolyMideTM CoPA are 0.25 mm, 40 mm/s, −0.10 mm, 255°C and 0.50 mm for layer thickness, printing speed, hatch spacing, extrusion temperature and extrusion width, respectively. It was also concluded that the optimal process parameters for PolymaxTM PC are 0.30 mm, 40 mm/s, 0.00 mm, 260°C and 0.6 mm for layer thickness, printing speed, hatch spacing, extrusion temperature and extrusion width, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

It was difficult to separate tracks printed using PolyMideTM PA6-CF from the support structure, making it impossible to examine and determine their degree of fusion using SEM.

Social implications

The study provides more knowledge on FDM, which is one of the leading additive manufacturing technology for polymers. The information provided in this study helps in continued uptake of the technique, which can help create job opportunities, especially among the youth and young engineers.

Originality/value

This study proposes a new and a more accurate method for optimising process parameters of FDM at meso-scale level.
Environmental conditions influence host–parasite interactions and host fitness in a migratory passerine
Authors: GONZÁLEZ‐BERNARDO Enrique , MORENO‐RUEDA Gregorio , CAMACHO Carlos , MARTÍNEZ‐PADILLA Jesús , POTTI Jaime , CANAL David
Published: July 2024

The study of host–parasite co‐evolution is a central topic in evolutionary ecology. However, research is still fragmented and the extent to which parasites influence host life history is debated. One reason for this incomplete picture is the frequent omission of environmental conditions in studies analyzing host–parasite dynamics, which may influence the exposure to or effects of parasitism. To contribute to elucidating the largely unresolved question of how environmental conditions are related to the prevalence and intensity of infestation and their impact on hosts, we took advantage of 25 years of monitoring of a breeding population of pied flycatchers, Ficedula hypoleuca, in a Mediterranean area of central Spain. We investigated the influence of temperature and precipitation during the nestling stage at a local scale on the intensity of blowfly (Protocalliphora azurea) parasitism during the nestling stage. In addition, we explored the mediating effect of extrinsic and intrinsic factors and blowfly parasitism on breeding success (production of fledglings) and offspring quality (nestling mass on day 13). The prevalence and intensity of blowfly parasitism were associated with different intrinsic (host breeding date, brood size) and extrinsic (breeding habitat, mean temperature) factors. Specifically, higher average temperatures during the nestling phase were associated with lower intensities of parasitism, which may be explained by changes in blowflies’ activity or larval developmental success. In contrast, no relationship was found between the prevalence of parasitism and any of the environmental variables evaluated. Hosts that experienced high parasitism intensities in their broods produced more fledglings as temperature increased, suggesting that physiological responses to severe parasitism during nestling development might be enhanced in warmer conditions. The weight of fledglings was, however, unrelated to the interactive effect of parasitism intensity and environmental conditions. Overall, our results highlight the temperature dependence of parasite–host interactions and the importance of considering multiple fitness indicators and climate‐mediated effects to understand their complex implications for avian fitness and population dynamics.
Excessive use of preoperative blood type and antibody screening: A retrospective observational study conducted in a hospital in Norway
Authors: Morberg Pål Christian Wold , Ringdal Kjetil Gorseth , Espinosa Aurora , Lindholm Espen
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to identify the blood transfusion rates for several surgical procedures in a single district general hospital and assess the value of preoperative blood type and antibody screen across all relevant surgical procedures. We hypothesized that there was an overuse of blood type and antibody screen in our general surgical population.

Methods

A database containing transfusions of patients who underwent elective‐ or emergency surgery from January 2015 to September 2020 was matched to a database of preoperative type‐and‐screen performed in the same period. Registered procedures where the incidence of transfusion is deemed low were excluded. The included procedures were assessed for the intraoperative usefulness of type‐ and‐screen testing.

Results

In the included 68.892 surgeries, 36.134 (52.0%) blood samples were preoperatively tested for the blood type and screened for antibodies according to the hospital's routine. Overall 3.517 (5.1%) of surgeries had patients that received a transfusion in the perioperative period and 1.2% (n = 850) during the surgery.

Conclusion

Most surgeries had a very low incidence of transfusion. Despite this, type‐and‐screen tests were widely used. This suggests the need for a more focused pre‐surgery type‐and‐screen approach, and a more data driven approach to local guidelines in collaboration with surgical specialties.
Testing the Bonds: Franco‐Russian Alliance and the First Sino‐Japanese War
Authors: Becker Julius Lucas
Published: July 2024

The conclusion of the Franco‐Russian Alliance was one of the major turning points in the history of international relations before the outbreak of the First World War in 1914. However, the alliance was put under its first severe test only months after its ratification in 1894. The Sino‐Japanese War and the far‐reaching Japanese conquests in Northeast Asia during this war forced the French and Russian governments to align their foreign and imperial policy towards the region. This ultimately resulted in Paris and St. Petersburg in April 1895 intervening against Japan together with France's rival Germany. This initiative, known as the Triple Intervention, caused intense tensions within Franco‐Russian relations, just as the politicians in Berlin had intended. Ultimately, however, the political decision‐makers in Wilhelmstraße achieved exactly the opposite. Although politicians in Paris were initially displeased with the state of their country's relationship with St. Petersburg, they were eventually able to capitalise on the situation. By systematically excluding the government in Berlin from potential advantages derived from the successful intervention, the mutual trust in the alliance was restored and subsequently, St. Petersburg and Paris were able to strengthen their position vis‐à‐vis their imperial rivals in East Asia.
Editorial: Treatments for inflammatory bowel disease across age‐spectrum—Are they the same? Authors' reply
Authors: Wewer Mads Damsgaard , Nordestgaard Rie Louise Møller , Malham Mikkel , Wewer Vibeke , Boysen Trine , Burisch Johan
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Nordestgaard et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18106 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18143
Unleash your potential: Inside interventional pathology
Authors: Villar‐Zarra Karen , Balassanian Ronald , Vielh Philippe
Published: July 2024

Interventional pathology has emerged as a pivotal force in modern healthcare, heralding a paradigm shift from traditional diagnostic approaches to patient‐centered care. This innovative field bridges the gap between pathology and cytopathology, empowering pathologists to streamline diagnoses and reduce waiting times for patients. Collaborative mentorship and knowledge sharing ensure a lasting legacy of diagnostic excellence for future generations. Interventional pathology stands as a symbol of innovation and patient empowerment, offering a unified approach to diagnostics and improved care in the era of personalized medicine. This narrative chronicles the evolution of interventional pathologists from behind‐the‐scenes diagnostic specialists to frontline innovators. This is the story of the rise of the interventional pathologist: a testament to innovation, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to patient well‐being.
Ongoing assertion of two‐dimensional measurements on differentiation type of left ventricular hypertrophy: Focus on inferior vena cava
Authors: Guler Gamze Babur , Guler Arda , Tanboga Ibrahim Halil , Turkmen Irem , Atmaca Sezgin , Sahin Hasan , Tekin Meltem , Karakurt Seda Tukenmez , Erin Faruk , Inan Duygu , Cinli Tahir Alper , Akkas Burcu Esen , Cansever Aysel Turkvatan , Erturk Mehmet
Published: July 2024

Background

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), including hypertensive LVH, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiac amyloidosis (CA), is a commonly encountered condition in cardiology practice, presenting challenges in differential diagnosis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the importance of echocardiographic evaluation of the inferior vena cava (IVC) in distinguishing LVH subtypes including hypertensive LVH, HCM, and CA.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients with common causes of LVH including hypertensive LVH, HCM, and CA were included. The role of echocardiographic evaluation of IVC diameter and collapsibility in distinguishing these causes of LVH was assessed in conjunction with other echocardiographic, clinical, and imaging methods.

Results

A total of 211 patients (45% HCM, 43% hypertensive heart disease, and 12% CA) were included in our study. Their mean age was 56.6 years and 62% of them were male. While mean IVC diameter was significantly dilated in CA patients (13.4 mm in hypertensive LVH, 16.0 mm in HCM, and 21.1 mm in CA, p < .001), its collapsibility was reduced (IVC collapsible in 95% of hypertensive patients, 72% of HCM patients, and 12% of CA patients, p < .001). In the analysis of diagnostic probabilities, the presence of both hypovoltage and IVC dilation is significant for CA patients. Although it is not statistically significant, the presence of IVC dilation along with atrial fibrillation supports the diagnosis of HCM.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although advances in imaging techniques facilitate the diagnosis of LVH, simple echocardiographic methods should never be overlooked. Our study supports the notion that IVC assessment could play an important role in the differential diagnosis of LVH.