bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body mass index and all-cause mortality in HUNT and UK Biobank studies: revised non-linear Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Burgess Stephen , Sun Yi-Qian , Zhou Ang , Buck Christopher , Mason Amy M , Mai Xiao-Mei
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To estimate the shape of the causal relationship between body mass index (BMI) and mortality risk in a Mendelian randomization framework.

Design

Mendelian randomization analyses of two prospective population-based cohorts.

Setting

Individuals of European ancestries living in Norway or the United Kingdom.

Participants

56,150 participants from the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) in Norway and 366,385 participants from UK Biobank recruited by postal invitation.

Outcomes

All-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality (cardiovascular, cancer, non-cardiovascular non-cancer).

Results

A previously published non-linear Mendelian randomization analysis of these data using the residual stratification method suggested a J-shaped association between genetically-predicted BMI and mortality outcomes with the lowest mortality risk at a BMI of around 25 kg/m2. However, the “constant genetic effect” assumption required by this method is violated. The re-analysis of these data using the more reliable doubly-ranked stratification method still indicated a J-shaped relationship, but with less precision in estimates at the lower end of the BMI distribution. Evidence for a harmful effect of reducing BMI at low BMI levels was only present in some analyses, and where present, only below 20 kg/m2. A harmful effect of increasing BMI for all-cause mortality was evident above 25 kg/m2, for cardiovascular mortality above 24 kg/m2, for non-cardiovascular non-cancer mortality above 26 kg/m2, and for cancer mortality above 30 kg/m2. In UK Biobank, the association between genetically-predicted BMI and mortality at high BMI levels was stronger in women than in men.

Conclusion

This research challenges findings from previous conventional observational epidemiology and Mendelian randomization investigations that the lowest level of mortality risk is at a BMI level of around 25 kg/m2. Our results provide evidence that reductions in BMI will only increase mortality risk for a small proportion of the population, and increases in BMI will increase mortality risk for those with BMI above 25 kg/m2.

Strengths and limitations of the study

Mendelian randomization design minimizes bias due to confounding and reverse causation

Large sample sizes enable powerful analyses even in low BMI individuals

Validity of the genetic variants as instrumental variables cannot be verified

Bias due to selection could be non-negligible and could vary across strata

All estimates are averaged across a stratum of the population; individual effects of raising or lowering BMI may vary between individuals
Biomarkers of neurodegeneration in schizophrenia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wilson Jack C. , Liu Kathy Y. , Jones Katherine , Mahmood Jansher , Arya Utkarsh , Howard Robert
Published: November 2023

Question

Does neurodegenerative disease underlie the increased rate of dementia observed in older people with schizophrenia? Several studies have reported a higher prevalence of dementia in people with schizophrenia compared to the general population. This may reflect higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as vascular dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Alternatively, this may reflect nonpathological, age-related cognitive decline in a population with low cognitive reserve. We reviewed the literature on neurodegeneration markers in older people with schizophrenia and dementia or cognitive impairment to establish whether neurodegenerative disease underlies the increased rate of dementia observed.

Study Selection and Analysis

We reviewed papers that compared post-mortem findings, hippocampal volume, or CSF markers of AD, in schizophrenia patients with evidence of cognitive impairment (age ≥45 years) with controls. Most studies investigated AD neuropathology. We subsequently performed a meta-analysis of post-mortem studies that compared amyloid-β plaques (APs) or neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in cognitively impaired schizophrenia patients to either controls or an AD group.

Findings

No studies found significant increase of amyloid-β plaques (APs) or neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in cognitively impaired schizophrenia patients compared to controls. All postmortem studies that compared APs or NFTs in schizophrenia patients to an AD group found significantly more APs or NFTs in AD. No studies found significant differences in CSF total tau or phosphorylated tau between schizophrenia patients and controls. Two studies found significantly decreased CSF Aβ42 in schizophrenia compared to patients. Findings for hippocampal volume were mixed.

Conclusions

Studies have not found higher rates of AD-related pathology in cognitively impaired schizophrenia individuals compared to controls. Higher rates of dementia identified in population studies may reflect lack of specificity in clinical diagnostic tools used to diagnose dementia.
Pilot study of a multifaceted nurse-led antimicrobial stewardship intervention in residential aged care
Authors: Jokanovic Natali , Lee Sue J , Haines Terry , Hilmer Sarah N , Jeon Yun-Hee , Travis Laura , Ayton Darshini , Watson Eliza , Tsindos Tess , Stewardson Andrew J , Stuart Rhonda L , Cheng Allen C , Peel Trisha N , Peleg Anton Y
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of a nurse-led antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) program in two Australian residential aged care homes (RACHs) to inform a stepped-wedged, cluster randomised controlled trial (SW-cRCT).

Methods

A mixed-methods pilot study of a nurse-led AMS program was performed in two RACHs in Victoria, Australia between July and December 2019. The AMS program comprised education, infection assessment and management guidelines, and documentation to support appropriate antimicrobial use in urinary, lower respiratory and skin/soft tissue infections. The program was implemented over three phases over five months: 1) pre-implementation education and integration (1-month); 2) implementation of the intervention (3-months); 3) post-intervention evaluation (1-month). Baseline RACH and resident data and weekly infection and antimicrobial usage was collected. Feedback on intervention resources and implementation barriers were identified from semi-structured interviews, online staff questionnaire and researcher field notes.

Results

Six key barriers to implementation of the intervention were identified and used to refine the intervention; aged care staffing and capacity, access to education, resistance to practice change, role of staff in AMS, leadership and ownership of the intervention at the RACH and organisation-level, and expectations from family. A total 61 antimicrobials were prescribed for 40 residents over the 3-month intervention period. Overall, 48% of antibiotics did not meet the minimum criteria for appropriate initiation (respiratory 73%; urinary: 54%; skin/soft tissue: 0%).

Conclusions

Several barriers and opportunities to improve the implementation of AMS in RACHs were identified. Findings were used to inform a revised intervention to be evaluated in a larger SW-cRCT.
Improving imputation quality in Samoans through the integration of population-specific sequences into existing reference panels
Authors: Carlson Jenna C. , Krishnan Mohanraj , Liu Shuwei , Anderson Kevin J. , Zhang Jerry Z. , Yapp Toni-Ann J. , Chiyka Elizabeth A. , Dikec Devin A. , Cheng Hong , Naseri Take , Reupena Muagututi‘a Sefuiva , Viali Satupa‘itea , Deka Ranjan , Hawley Nicola L. , McGarvey Stephen T. , Weeks Daniel E. , Minster Ryan L.
Published: November 2023

Genotype imputation is fundamental to association studies, and yet even gold standard panels like TOPMed are limited in the populations for which they yield good imputation. Specifically, Pacific Islanders are poorly represented in extant panels. To address this, we constructed an imputation reference panel using 1,285 Samoan individuals with whole-genome sequencing, combined with 1000 Genomes (1000G) samples, to create a reference panel that better represents Pacific Islander, specifically Samoan, genetic variation. We compared this panel to 1000G and TOPMed panels based on imputed variants using genotyping array data for 1,834 Samoan participants who were not part of the panels. The 1000G + 1285 Samoan panel yielded up to 2.25-2.76 times more well-imputed (r2≥ 0.80) variants than TOPMed and 1000G. There was improved imputation accuracy across the minor allele frequency (MAF) spectrum, although it was more pronounced for variants with 0.01 ≤ MAF ≤ 0.05. Imputation accuracy (r2) was greater for population-specific variants (high fixation index, FST) and those from larger haplotypes (high LD score). The gain in imputation accuracy over TOPMed was largest for small haplotypes (low LD score), reflecting the Samoan panel’s ability to capture population-specific variation not well tagged by other panels. We also augmented the 1000G reference panel with varying numbers of Samoan samples and found that panels with 48 or more Samoans included outperformed TOPMed for all variants with MAF ≥ 0.001. This study identifies variants with improved imputation using population-specific reference panels and provides a framework for constructing other population-specific reference panels.
How do clinical researchers generate data-driven scientific hypotheses? Cognitive events using think-aloud protocol
Authors: Jing Xia , Draghi Brooke N. , Ernst Mytchell A. , Patel Vimla L. , Cimino James J. , Shubrook Jay H. , Zhou Yuchun , Liu Chang , De Lacalle Sonsoles
Published: November 2023

Objectives

This study aims to identify the cognitive events related to information use (e.g., “Analyze data”, “Seek connection”) during hypothesis generation among clinical researchers. Specifically, we describe hypothesis generation using cognitive event counts and compare them between groups.

Methods

The participants used the same datasets, followed the same scripts, used VIADS (avisual interactiveanalysis tool for filtering and summarizing largedatasets coded with hierarchical terminologies) or other analytical tools (as control) to analyze the datasets, and came up with hypotheses while following the think-aloud protocol. Their screen activities and audio were recorded and then transcribed and coded for cognitive events.

Results

The VIADS group exhibited the lowest mean number of cognitive events per hypothesis and the smallest standard deviation. The experienced clinical researchers had approximately 10% more valid hypotheses than the inexperienced group. The VIADS users among the inexperienced clinical researchers exhibit a similar trend as the experienced clinical researchers in terms of the number of cognitive events and their respective percentages out of all the cognitive events. The highest percentages of cognitive events in hypothesis generation were “Using analysis results” (30%) and “Seeking connections” (23%).

Conclusion

VIADS helped inexperienced clinical researchers use fewer cognitive events to generate hypotheses than the control group. This suggests that VIADS may guide participants to be more structured during hypothesis generation compared with the control group. The results provide evidence to explain the shorter average time needed by the VIADS group in generating each hypothesis.

What is already known on this topic

how hypotheses were generated when solving a puzzle or a medical case and the reasoning differences between experienced and inexperienced physicians.

What this study adds

Our study facilitates our understanding of how clinical researchers generate hypotheses with secondary data analytical tools and datasets, the cognitive events used during hypothesis generation in an open discovery context.

How this study might affect research, practice, or policy

Our work suggests secondary data analytical tools and visualization may facilitate hypothesis generation among inexperienced clinical researchers regarding the number of hypotheses, average time, and the cognitive events needed per hypothesis.
New information triggers prospective codes to adapt for flexible navigation
Authors: Prince Stephanie M. , Yassine Teema A. , Katragadda Navya , Roberts Tyler C. , Singer Annabelle C.
Published: November 2023

Navigating a dynamic world requires rapidly updating choices by integrating past experiences with new information. In hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, neural activity representing future goals is theorized to support planning. However, it remains unknown how prospective goal representations incorporate new, pivotal information. Accordingly, we designed a novel task that precisely introduces new information using virtual reality, and we recorded neural activity as mice flexibly adapted their planned destinations. We found that new information triggered increased hippocampal prospective representations of both possible goals; while in prefrontal cortex, new information caused prospective representations of choices to rapidly shift to the new choice. When mice did not flexibly adapt, prefrontal choice codes failed to switch, despite relatively intact hippocampal goal representations. Prospective code updating depended on the commitment to the initial choice and degree of adaptation needed. Thus, we show how prospective codes update with new information to flexibly adapt ongoing navigational plans.
Small variant benchmark from a complete assembly of X and Y chromosomes
Authors: Wagner Justin , Olson Nathan D. , McDaniel Jennifer , Harris Lindsay , Pinto Brendan J. , Jáspez David , Muñoz-Barrera Adrián , Rubio-Rodríguez Luis A. , Lorenzo-Salazar José M. , Flores Carlos , Ebrahim Sahraeian Sayed Mohammad , Narzisi Giuseppe , Byrska-Bishop Marta , Evani Uday S , Xiao Chunlin , Lake Juniper A. , Fontana Peter , Greenberg Craig , Freed Donald , Mootor Mohammed Faizal Eeman , Boutros Paul C. , Murray Lisa , Shafin Kishwar , Carroll Andrew , Sedlazeck Fritz J , Wilson Melissa , Zook Justin M.
Published: November 2023

The sex chromosomes contain complex, important genes impacting medical phenotypes, but differ from the autosomes in their ploidy and large repetitive regions. To evaluate variant detection on chromosomes X and Y, we created an 111,725 variant benchmark for the Genome in a Bottle HG002 reference material. We show how complete assemblies can expand benchmarks to difficult regions, but highlight remaining challenges benchmarking complex gene conversions, copy number variable gene arrays, and human satellites.
Associations between sedentary behaviour and motor competence in 3–4-year-olds: A Systematic review
Authors: Kwofie Nana A , Janssen Xanne , Reilly John J
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Several studies have reported low adherence to World Health Organization sedentary behaviour guidelines in the early years. The purpose of this review is to test for associations between time spent in different types of sedentary behaviour (screen time, habitual sedentary behaviour) and motor competence (fundamental motor skills, fine and gross motor skills, locomotor skills, object control and balance) in 3–4-year-olds.

METHODS

Five databases were searched on the 27thof July 2021 with an updated search conducted on the 30thof September 2023: Web of Science (core collection), PUBMED Central, EMBASE (Ovid), SPORT Discus and ERIC. Studies were included in the review if they reported on an association between time spent in sedentary behaviour at ages 3-4 years and motor competence. The methodological quality for each of the included studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Vote counting was used to determine the direction of associations.

RESULTS

Of 5276 total studies found in the search, 16 studies (12 cross-sectional, 4 longitudinal) from 11 different countries met the inclusion criteria. Seven studies examined the association between screen time and motor competence, six examined associations between time spent in sedentary behaviour with motor competence, and three papers examined the association of both screen time and time spent in sedentary behaviour with motor competence. Vote counting showed the direction of association to be predominantly negative for both screen time and time spent in habitual sedentary behaviour with the different components of motor competence. Quality of evidence ranged from 3-7 out of 9 for cross-sectional studies and 6-9 out of 12 for longitudinal studies.

CONCLUSION

There may be negative associations between time spent sedentary and motor competence in 3–4-year-olds. However, future studies with stronger study design are required to confirm these associations. Findings from this review should be considered when designing strategies and interventions to promote adherence to sedentary behaviour guidelines.
The Optic Nerve Crush Injury Paradigm in African Turquoise Killifish to Study Axonal Regeneration in an Aged Environment
Authors: Vanhunsel Sophie , Bergmans Steven , Moons Lieve
Published: November 2023

In our graying world population, we are increasingly facing brain injuries and age-associated neurodegenerative diseases, which are often characterized by axonal pathology. Here, we propose the killifish visual/retinotectal system as a model for investigating central nervous system repair, more specifically axonal regeneration, in an aging context. We first describe an optic nerve crush (ONC) injury paradigm in killifish to induce and study both de- and regeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Subsequently, we summarize several methods for mapping different steps of the regenerative process—namely, axonal regrowth and synapse reformation—using retro- and anterograde tracing methods, (immuno)histochemistry, and morphometrical analyses.
Small-Scale Illumina Library Preparation Using the Illumina Nextera XT DNA Library Preparation Kit
Authors: Zeden Merve S. , Gründling Angelika
Published: November 2023

Here, we describe a protocol for a scaled-down version of a genomic DNA (gDNA)-fragmentation and tagmentation reaction using the Illumina Nextera XT DNA Library Preparation Kit. UsingStaphylococcus aureusas an example,which has a genome size of ∼3 Mb, we show how 24 different samples can be pooled for a typical paired-end Illumina high-throughput sequencing run using the MiSeq Reagent V2 300-cycle kit, with which it is possible to sequence 5.1 Gb of DNA. As part of the protocol, a DNA size-selection method using a standard DNA agarose gel–extraction procedure and a final sample quality-control step using a Bioanalyzer are described.
Bacterial Whole-Genome-Resequencing Analysis: Basic Steps Using the CLC Genomics Workbench Software
Authors: Zeden Merve S. , Gründling Angelika
Published: November 2023

In this protocol, we describe the basic steps for bacterial genome resequencing analysis using the QIAGEN CLC Genomics Workbench software. More specifically, we present how a reference genome sequence can be generated from Illumina reads of a wild-type reference bacterial strain and how this reference genome sequence can then be used to identify genomic alterations in mutant strains. As specific examples, Illumina reads from theStaphylococcus aureusRN4220 strain will be used to generate a consensus reference genome based on the publicly availableS. aureusNCTC8325 genome sequence. The generated RN4220 consensus reference genome will subsequently be used to identify genomic mutations in an RN4220 mutant strain with increased oxacillin resistance (OxaR strain).
Micromagnetics and multiscale hysteresis simulations of permanent magnets
Authors: Yang Yangyiwei , Kühn Patrick , Fathidoost Mozhdeh , Xu Bai-Xiang
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Confronting the unveiled sophisticated structural and physical characteristics of permanent magnets, notably the samarium–cobalt (Sm-Co) alloy, This work aims to introduce a simulation scheme that can link physics-based micromagnetics on the nanostructures and magnetostatic homogenization on the mesoscale polycrystalline structures.

Design/methodology/approach

The simulation scheme is arranged in a multiscale fashion. The magnetization behaviors on the nanostructures examined with various orientations are surrogated as the micromagnetic-informed hysterons. The hysteresis behavior of the mesoscale polycrystalline structures with micromagnetic-informed hysterons is then evaluated by computational magnetostatic homogenization.

Findings

The micromagnetic-informed hysterons can emulate the magnetization reversal of the parameterized Sm-Co nanostructures as the local hysteresis behavior on the mesostructures. The simulation results of the mesoscale polycrystal demonstrate that the demagnetization process starts from the grain with the largest orientation angle (a) and then propagates to the surrounding grains.

Research limitations/implications

The presented scheme depicts the demand for integrating data-driven methods, as the parameters of the surrogate hysteron intrinsically depend on the nanostructure and its orientation. Further hysteron parameters that help the surrogate hysteron emulate the micromagnetic-simulated magnetization reversal should be examined.

Originality/value

This work provides a novel multiscale scheme for simulating the polycrystalline permanent magnets’ hysteresis while recapitulating the nanoscale mechanisms, such as the nucleation of domains, and domain wall migration and pinning. This scheme can be further extended to simulate the part-level hysteresis considering the mesoscale features.
Corporate governance education in Ghana: gender and school library to the rescue
Authors: Foli Jessie Yao , Awaah Fred , Solomon Yeboah
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Corporate governance and its training in universities have become an essential addition to the educational curriculum. Despite its expansion, students still need help to grasp some concepts, affecting their academic performance. This paper examines the expected influence of gender and school libraries on comprehending corporate governance concepts in Ghanaian universities.

Design/methodology/approach

With the culturo-techno-contextual approach (CTCA) as the underlying theory, the study sampled 1050 undergraduate students from the selected Ghanaian public universities. The study adopted a quantitative approach, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA.

Findings

The results show a statistically significant difference between male and female Ghanaian students in their understanding of corporate governance concepts, with the mean figures suggesting that males slightly understand corporate governance concepts more than females. The results also show a statistically significant difference among Ghanaian students studying using school libraries of varying quality in their understanding of corporate governance.

Originality/value

This study's novelty stems from examining the corporate governance curriculum in a developing country from the perspectives of gender and school library. Adopting the CTCA components in analysing school libraries and gender further evidences the study's novelty.
An ID card allowing access to municipal services for migrants with precarious status in Montreal and its influence on social inclusion: a mixed method study
Authors: Belval Jennyfer , Lambert Sylvie D. , Miller Catherine-Anne , Grosse Juliette , Boudreault Pénélope , Belzile Eric
Published: November 2023

Purpose

An identification card facilitates access to municipal services for migrants with precarious status (MPS) in Montreal. The purpose of this study was to explore from MPS’ perspective the utility of the identity (ID) card and its influence on social inclusion for MPS.

Design/methodology/approach

A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was used. First, a descriptive phone survey was administered (n = 119). Associations between ID card use and levels of social inclusion were assessed using ordinal logistic regression. Second, semi-structured interviews (n = 12) were done with purposely selected participants. Results were mixed using a statistics-by-theme approach.

Findings

Results showed that ID card users compared to nonusers reported higher levels of participation in society and more control/independence in daily life. No statistical associations were found between card use and sense of belonging nor sense of safety. Interviews highlighted that the ID card enabled participation in socio-recreational activities and perceived empowerment. A heightened sense of belonging was also found. Interview participants expressed fear of police despite owning the ID card.

Practical implications

Overall, although the municipal ID card promoted social inclusion for MPS, there is a need to render the ID card official to fully achieve this goal. Findings can inform the creation of public policies that foster inclusion and health of MPS in cities around the world.

Originality/value

Evaluation from MPS’ perspectives of the first ID card program of its kind in Canada.
Assessing shared value in innovation ecosystems: a new perspective of scorecard
Authors: Piantoni Giulia , Dell'Agostino Laura , Arena Marika , Azzone Giovanni
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Measuring shared value (SV) created in innovation ecosystems (IEs) is increasingly relevant but complex, given the multidimensional and multiactor nature of both concepts, which challenges traditional performance measurement systems (PMSs). Moving from this gap, the authors propose an integrated approach to extend the balanced scorecard (BSC) for measuring and monitoring SV creation at IE level.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed approach combines the most recent contributions on PMS in IEs and SV to define perspectives and dimensions that are better suited to deal with the nature of both IEs and SV. The approach is also applied to the real case (Alpha) of an Italian IE through a step wise method. Starting from the IE vision, the authors identify in the strategy map the specific objectives related to each perspective/dimension combination and then associate a performance indicator with each objective.

Findings

The resulting SV BSC is composed of indicators interconnected along different perspectives and dimensions. The application of the approach to the real case proves its feasibility and highlights characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of the SV BSC when used at IE level. The authors also provide guidelines for its application to other IEs.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the research on PMS by introducing and applying to a real case an integrated approach to assess SV in IEs, overcoming the shortcomings of PMS framed for single firms. It can be of interest for both researchers in the field of ecosystems value creation and practitioners managing or promoting such complex structures.
Preliminary findings on the use of “teaming” in elder abuse intervention: the RISE project
Authors: MacNeil Andie , Connolly Marie-Therese , Salvo Erin , Kimball Patricia F. , Rogers Geoff , Lewis Stuart , Burnes David
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Our understanding of what intervention strategies are effective in improving the well-being of older adults experiencing elder abuse and self-neglect (EASN) is severely limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a method called “teaming,” a wraparound approach to provide enhanced social support to older adults experiencing EASN. A teaming intervention was administered by advocates in Maine, USA, as a component of a larger community-based EASN intervention, Repair harm, Inspire change, Support connection, Empower choice (RISE), implemented to complement adult protective services.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative interviews and a focus group were conducted with RISE advocates (n = 4). A descriptive phenomenological approach involving two independent assessors was used to code transcripts into themes and subthemes.

Findings

Three domains were identified: (1) team and support forming process, which describes the development of a supportive network based on each client’s needs; (2) techniques, which refers to the specific strategies advocates use to promote collectivity and shared responsibility around the client; and (3) implementation challenges, which discusses the difficulties advocates encounter when using teaming with people experiencing EASN.

Originality/value

This study represents the first in-depth exploration of teaming in the context of EASN intervention. Preliminary findings on the experiences of advocates suggest that teaming is a beneficial approach to support the individualized needs of each client, and to promote improved and sustainable case outcomes for clients.
Survival versus sustaining: A multidisciplinary inquiry of the environmental dilemma in rural Uganda
Authors: Muwanika Vincent B. , Perry Mia , Kayendeke Ellen J. , Pullanikkatil Deepa , Okot Alex , Thakadu Olekae T. , Mwesigwa Gordon Y. , Mfitumukiza David
Published: November 2023

The livelihoods of the majority of Uganda's population depend on declining environmental resources. The sustainability of the natural environment requires that the people who are interdependent with it, as well as the structures of governance and leadership around them, understand the implications of resource degradation and take deliberate steps towards restoration. The interdependency of human and environment conditions in Uganda requires multidisciplinary attention and this paper reflects a contribution to this end. Socio‐cultural perceptions and relations with a vulnerable environment are put into dialogue with the physical status of environmental resources in Alebtong District, Uganda. Southern epistemological perspectives are considered in relation to Western scientific paradigms. Culturally responsive socio‐cultural research data are related to MODIS NDVI data, using time series analyses and NDVI as a proxy for productivity. The research confirms the declining availability and condition of natural resources and the acknowledgement of local influence on this condition. Despite this, deliberate community and governance efforts towards conservation and restoration varied from non‐existent to insufficient. The causes for this inconsistency revolve around conflicting priorities. This paper demonstrates and discusses the difficult trade‐offs in decision‐making about natural resources that rural communities face, and supports new partnership models as a route to improvement.
Introducing the Berggruen Governance Index I: Conceptual and methodological framework
Authors: Anheier Helmut K. , Lang Markus , Knudsen Edward L.
Published: November 2023

Governance is at the heart of how well governments meet public needs and manage a wide array of common problems. Why do some countries perform poorly in delivering healthcare, reducing inequality, providing a clean environment or delivering some other public good to their populations even while they have the resources to do so? Does the capacity of states to provide the basics for societies to thrive depend on forms of democratic accountability that represents different interests, or are systems under technocratic control that impose solutions and disregard, even suppress, many voices better at meeting public needs? Existing indices do not systematically examine the relationship between the components that contribute to governance performance. In our understanding of governance, depicted as the Governance Triangle, public goods provision is a function of state capacity and accountability. Rather than focusing on a single composite performance measure, the Berggruen Governance Index examines the interactions among these dimensions. We find that the key to good governance is achieving a balance among the three dimensions on an upward and sustainable trajectory. This article introduces the Index and the conceptual and methodological framework that underpins it and then outlines the content of this special issue.
A falling star? Origins of declining state capacity and democratic accountability in the United States
Authors: Knudsen Edward L.
Published: November 2023

The United States—often hailed as the ‘oldest democracy in the world’ and the ‘leader of the free world’—has fallen on hard times. In addition to recent headline‐grabbing political events that have highlighted its political dysfunction, data from the 2022 Berggruen Governance Index (BGI) reveal that overall state capacity and democratic accountability have been declining for years. Although public goods provision has remained on a steady course, the US still trails much of the developed world. We find this struggling performance is largely the result of neglecting three types of infrastructure: civic, physical and social. Specifically, we argue that the crisis became particularly pronounced due to an insufficient response to the 2008 global financial crisis. Although some recent political achievements could slow the decline, more drastic action will be required to reverse these troubling trends.
Sub‐Saharan Africa: Towards better governance and sustainability?
Authors: Anheier Helmut K. , Fröhlich Christian , List Regina A.
Published: November 2023

The countries of the Sub‐Saharan region have, on average, made significant progress in governance performance, especially in terms of democratic accountability and public goods provision—findings that seem to contradict patterns of state fragility and economic underdevelopment common in the region. This article explores this seeming contradiction and presents in more detail findings from the Berggruen Governance Index regarding the governance performance of five countries, namely Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal and South Africa. Lagging state capacity and growing sovereign debt emerge as critical factors, and the article suggests that they may be responsible for the inability of many countries in the region to consolidate gains in governance as well as economic performance.
A measure to evaluate parenting interventions: Using inclusive research to modify a tool to measure change in parenting self‐efficacy during the antenatal period
Authors: Ip Athena , Kendall Sally , Jabeen Ali , Watkin Scott , Cox Anna
Published: November 2023

Background

With the right support, people with learning disabilities can be ‘good enough’ parents (Coren et al., 2011; Murphy & Feldman, 2002). Parenting programmes exist to support parents and are made accessible for people with learning disabilities who are expecting a baby, but evaluation of the benefit of these interventions is poor due to a lack of accessible outcome measures (May & Harris, 2020; Wade et al., 2008). The Tool to Measure Parenting Self‐Efficacy in the antenatal period (TOPSE‐ ante‐natal) measures the impact of parenting interventions on an individual's self‐efficacy during the antenatal period. This study aimed to modify the TOPSE ante‐natal tool through a process of inclusive research, to support a consistent approach to evaluating parenting interventions from the perspective of parents‐to‐be with learning disabilities.

Methods

A two‐phase study using interviews and discussion groups was conducted in a process of inclusive research to modify the TOPSE ante‐natal tool. Phase one involved conducting eight cognitive interviews (interviews to understand how individuals process and recall information) with parents with learning disabilities. These were conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams, transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis (Krippendorff, 2013). Participants were recruited using snowballing techniques through the advisory groups' networks. Phase two included three discussion groups with study collaborators and advisors (n = 14) to assess the accessibility and acceptability of adaptations of the tool, each making further refinements for consideration.

Findings

Interviews and discussion groups highlighted how parents‐to‐be with learning disabilities experienced some of the original TOPSE‐ante‐natal negative statements, including negative points on a Likert scale, difficult to comprehend. Figurative statements and unfamiliar words also caused confusion, and statements focussed on the pressures of parenting were experienced as confrontational by people with learning disabilities. Statements were removed or replaced and agreed upon in discussion groups to ensure that the tool was accessible and meaningful to people with learning disabilities.

Conclusions

We have used a process of inclusive research to modify a self‐efficacy tool for parents‐to‐be with learning disabilities that is freely available on the TOPSE website (https://www.topse.org.uk/site/). The next steps are for this tool to be used and validated in future studies evaluating parenting interventions for people with learning disabilities. This will inform a knowledge base of what interventions should be used by practitioners who are supporting people with learning disabilities to prepare for parenthood.
Characterising and mapping potential and experienced tranquillity: From a state of mind to a cultural ecosystem service
Authors: Purves Ross S. , Wartmann Flurina M.
Published: November 2023

Tranquil places that induce a sense of calm and peacefulness are important for those seeking respite from their stressful everyday lives. Although tranquillity is a word commonly used in everyday English, we show that its definition is complex, most often encompassing sight and hearing, with strong cultural and historical influences. To shed light on the concept of tranquillity and related research in geography and other disciplines, we (i) trace how tranquillity has been conceptualised and characterised (ii) outline how the potential for tranquillity has been modelled in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and (iii) highlight methods capable of extracting individual experiences of tranquillity from interviews, public participation GIS and text analysis. We conclude by charting a research agenda for tranquillity that makes a case for theory development across disciplines including human geography, GIS, and environmental psychology, with interdisciplinary methodologies that should be implemented and developed to better reflect the importance of the combination of physical environment and lived human experience in shaping experienced tranquillity. Based on its importance for people's well‐being, we argue for the recognition of tranquillity as a cultural ecosystem service in its own right. Finally, we call for a more holistic inclusion of tranquillity in policy‐making and planning, where a focus on tranquillity and associated positive landscape and soundscape elements could help extend the focus beyond simply protection from noise, towards creating liveable and healthy environments for the future.
Drought affects the synchrony of aboveground and belowground phenology in tropical potato
Authors: Hoelle Julia , Khan Awais , Asch Folkard
Published: November 2023

The literature describes the belowground and aboveground phenology of potato to be linearly related. Bud formation is synchronous with tuber initiation and flowering with tuber filling. Many agronomic and breeding studies on potato use non‐destructive aboveground phenology to assess belowground development. No information is currently available on the influence of water deficit on the synchrony of above‐ and belowground development in potato. Five contrasting potato genotypes were subjected to four irrigation treatments on two different soil types. The irrigation treatments were as follows: fully watered, early drought, intermediate drought, and late drought. In 5‐day intervals after withholding water, detailed belowground and aboveground development was recorded. Results showed that the synchrony between aboveground and belowground development is strongly influenced by both water deficit and development stage at drought initiation. Under early drought, the aboveground development was hastened and belowground development was delayed. The opposite was found in later development stages. The earlier the drought was initiated, the longer the tuber filling phase was, while the bulking phase was shortened. We concluded that under terminal drought conditions aboveground development and belowground development need to be evaluated separately and cannot follow the standard evaluation system that uses aboveground phenology as a proxy for tuber formation belowground development rates.
Barriers to cardiac rehabilitation and patient perceptions on the usage of technologies in cardiac rehabilitation: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chong Mei Sin , Sit Janet Wing Hung , Choi Kai Chow , Suhaimi Anwar , Chair Sek Ying
Published: November 2023

Aims and Objectives

The study aimed to identify factors associated with participation in Phase II cardiac rehabilitation and to assess patient perceptions towards the usage of technologies in cardiac rehabilitation.

Background

Despite efforts to promote utilisation of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), participation among patients remains unsatisfactory. Little is known of patient decision to participate Phase II CR in a multi‐ethnic country.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design.

Methods

A consecutive sampling of 240 patients with coronary heart disease completed Coronary Artery Disease Education Questionnaire (CADE‐Q) II, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS).

Results

Seventy per cent of patients (mean age 60.5 [SD = 10.6] years, 80.8% male) participated in phase II cardiac rehabilitation. Self‐driving to cardiac rehabilitation centres, higher barriers in perceived need/health care and logistical factors were significantly associated with decreased odds of participation. Patients with more barriers from comorbidities/functional status, higher perceived social support from friends, and anxiety were more likely to participate. Chinese and Indians were less likely to participate when compared with Malays. More than 80% of patients used both home and mobile broadband internet, and 72.9% of them would accept the usage of technologies, especially educational videos, instant messenger, and video calls to partially replace the face‐to‐face, centre‐based cardiac rehabilitation approach.

Conclusion

Several barriers were associated with non‐participation in phase II cardiac rehabilitation. With the high perceived acceptance of technology usage in cardiac rehabilitation, home‐based and hybrid cardiac rehabilitation may represent potential solutions to improve participation.

Relevance to clinical practice

By addressing the barriers to cardiac rehabilitation, patients are more likely to be ready to adopt health behaviour changes and adhere to the cardiac rehabilitation programme. The high perceived acceptance of using technologies in cardiac rehabilitation may provide insights into new delivery models that can improve and overcome barriers to participation.
Knowledge, familiarity, and impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on barriers to seeking mental health services among older people: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Khalil Marwa Ibrahim Mahfouz , Elnakeeb Mayar , Hassanin Hany Ibrahim , Sorour Dina Metwally
Published: November 2023

Aim

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused drastic changes in older people's daily activities with a negative impact on their mental health, yet older people are less likely to seek mental health services. This study aims to explore the relationship between knowledge of and familiarity with mental health services, along with the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic, and barriers to seeking mental health services among older people.

Methods

A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 352 older people, recruited among community‐dwelling adults who attended randomly selected postal offices and pension outlets. Three tools were used: a structured interview schedule for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of older people, the revised version of the Knowledge and Familiarity of Mental Health Services Scale (KFFMHS‐R), and the Barriers to Mental Health Services Scale Revised (BMHSS‐R).

Results

All participants reported experiencing mental health distress during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Intrinsic barriers had a higher mean score than extrinsic barriers, and 27.4% of the variance of overall barriers to seeking mental health could be explained through regression analysis by familiarity, knowledge of mental health services, and age. Overall barriers explained 24.4% of the variance of older people's perceived distress as an impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic (F = 22.160, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Knowledge of mental health services was the most significant predictor of barriers to seeking mental health services during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Higher barriers predicted higher distress as an impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The results of the study suggest the need for a multidisciplinary mental health team for older people.
Contribuições e Limites da Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados para a Regulação da Inteligência Artificial no Brasil
Authors: Lasmar Almada Marco Antonio , Souza de Albuquerque Maranhão Juliano
Published: November 2023

Sistemas de tomada de decisão automatizada são cada vez mais comuns em diversas aplicações nos setores público e privado. Como muitas das decisões tomadas por estes sistemas dependem de dados pessoais como insumos ou geram dados associáveis a pessoa natural, a Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD) introduz regras específicas voltadas a decisões baseadas unicamente no tratamento automatizado de dados pessoais. Este artigo sustenta que o regramento das decisões automatizadas na LGPD possui contornos distintos da abordagem adotada por outras jurisdições, notadamente a União Europeia. Tais diferenças surgem das formulações adotadas pelo legislador brasileiro ao estabelecer um direito à revisão de decisões automatizadas e definir os critérios para a adoção de medidas de design para a proteção de dados, e dificultam o transplante direto de salvaguardas técnicas adotadas em outras jurisdições. A adequada proteção dos direitos do titular de dados frente às decisões automatizadas exige, portanto, o desenvolvimento de padrões e diretrizes adequados às realidades do direito brasileiro.
Diferença Cultural como "Rótulo"
Authors: Simioni Fabiane , Pinhal de Carlos Paula , Ramos da Silva Vanessa
Published: November 2023

Este artigo versa sobre maternidades e infâncias indígenas, dando especial ênfase aos casos de adoção. O artigo 28, § 6º, do Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente assegura a priorização da comunidade ou etnia de origem para o reposicionamento familiar e a intervenção e oitiva de representantes da FUNAI e de antropólogos em procedimentos administrativos ou judiciais. Foram analisados três julgados do Tribunal de Justiça do Rio Grande do Sul com vistas a compreender os fundamentos utilizados para a destituição do poder familiar e a colocação das crianças em famílias não indígenas, a partir da metodologia da Análise de Conteúdo, proposta por Bardin (2016). As práticas jurídico-institucionais, nesses casos, desconsideraram as diferenças culturais, particularmente em relação aos modos de produção das maternidades e das infâncias dos povos originários.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: infância; maternidade; povos originários; adoção; decisão judicial.