bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding Arc transcription: a live-cell study of stimulation patterns and transcriptional output
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Moon Hyungseok C. , Lee Byung Hun , Park Hye Yoon
Published: September 2024

Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc) plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity, a process integral to learning and memory. Arc transcription is induced within a few minutes of stimulation, making it a useful marker for neuronal activity. However, the specific neuronal activity patterns that initiate Arc transcription have remained elusive due to the inability to observe mRNA transcription in live cells in real time. Using a genetically encoded RNA indicator (GERI) mouse model that expresses endogenous Arc mRNA tagged with multiple GFPs, we investigated Arc transcriptional activity in response to various electrical field stimulation patterns. The GERI mouse model was generated by crossing the Arc-PBS knock-in mouse, engineered with binding sites in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of Arc mRNA, and the transgenic mouse expressing the cognate binding protein fused to GFP. In dissociated hippocampal neurons, we found that the pattern of stimulation significantly affects Arc transcription. Specifically, theta-burst stimulation consisting of high-frequency (100 Hz) bursts delivered at 10 Hz frequency induced the highest rate of Arc transcription. Concurrently, the amplitudes of nuclear calcium transients also reached their peak with 10 Hz burst stimulation, indicating a correlation between calcium concentration and transcription. However, our dual-color single-cell imaging revealed that there were no significant differences in calcium amplitudes between Arc-positive and Arc-negative neurons upon 10 Hz burst stimulation, suggesting the involvement of other factors in the induction of Arc transcription. Our live-cell RNA imaging provides a deeper insight into the complex regulation of transcription by activity patterns and calcium signaling pathways.
Efficient six-dimensional phase space reconstructions from experimental measurements using generative machine learning
Authors: Roussel Ryan , Gonzalez-Aguilera Juan Pablo , Wisniewski Eric , Ody Alexander , Liu Wanming , Power John , Kim Young-Kee , Edelen Auralee
Published: September 2024

Next-generation accelerator concepts, which hinge on the precise shaping of beam distributions, demand equally precise diagnostic methods capable of reconstructing beam distributions within six-dimensional position-momentum spaces. However, the characterization of intricate features within six-dimensional beam distributions using current diagnostic techniques necessitates a substantial number of measurements, using many hours of valuable beam time. Novel phase space reconstruction techniques are needed to reduce the number of measurements required to reconstruct detailed, high-dimensional beam features in order to resolve complex beam phenomena and as a feedback in precision beam shaping applications. In this study, we present a novel approach to reconstructing detailed six-dimensional phase space distributions from experimental measurements using generative machine learning and differentiable beam dynamics simulations. We demonstrate that this approach can be used to resolve six-dimensional phase space distributions from scratch, using basic beam manipulations and as few as 20 two-dimensional measurements of the beam profile. We also demonstrate an application of the reconstruction method in an experimental setting at the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator, where it is able to reconstruct the beam distribution and accurately predict previously unseen measurements 75× faster than previous methods.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Unraveling gluon TMDs in
J/ψ
and pion production at the EIC
Authors: Banu Khatiza , Mukherjee Asmita , Pawar Amol , Rajesh Sangem
Published: September 2024

We investigate the azimuthal asymmetries such as cos2ϕT and Sivers symmetry for J/ψ and π± production in electron-proton scattering, focusing on scenarios where the J/ψ and the pion are produced in an almost back-to-back configuration. The electron is unpolarized, while the proton can be unpolarized or transversely polarized. For the J/ψ formation, we use nonrelativistic QCD (NRQCD), while π± is formed due to parton fragmentation. In this kinematics, we utilize the transverse momentum-dependent factorization framework to calculate the cross sections and asymmetries. We consider both quark and gluon-initiated processes and show that the gluon contribution dominates. In this work, we used the generalized parton model (GPM) for the transverse momentum distribution (TMD) parametrizations and did not consider the effect of TMD evolution. We provide numerical estimates of the upper bounds on the azimuthal asymmetries, as well as employ a Gaussian parametrization for the gluon TMDs, within the kinematical region accessible by the upcoming Electron-Ion Collider (EIC).

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Split Majoron model confronts the NANOGrav signal and cosmological tensions
Authors: Di Bari Pasquale , Rahat Moinul Hossain
Published: September 2024

In the light of the evidence of a gravitational wave background from the NANOGrav 15 yr dataset, we reconsider the split Majoron model as a new physics extension of the standard model able to generate a needed contribution to solve the current tension between the data and the standard interpretation in terms of inspiraling supermassive black hole massive binaries. In the split Majoron model the seesaw right-handed neutrinos acquire Majorana masses from spontaneous symmetry breaking of global U(1)B−L in a strong first order phase transition of a complex scalar field occurring above the electroweak scale. The final vacuum expectation value couples to a second complex scalar field undergoing a low scale phase transition occurring after neutrino decoupling. Such a coupling enhances the strength of this second low scale first order phase transition and can generate a sizeable primordial gravitational wave background contributing to the NANOGrav 15 yr signal. Some amount of extraradiation is generated after neutron-to-proton ration freeze-out but prior to nucleosynthesis. This can be either made compatible with the current upper bound from primordial deuterium measurements or even be used to solve a potential deuterium problem. Moreover, the free streaming length of light neutrinos can be suppressed by their interactions with the resulting Majoron background, and this mildly ameliorates existing cosmological tensions. Thus cosmological observations nicely provide independent motivations for the model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Linearized fluctuating hydrodynamics via random polynomials
Authors: Taghinavaz Farid , Torrieri Giorgio
Published: September 2024

We argue that an ensemble of backgrounds best describes hydrodynamic dispersion relations in a medium with few degrees of freedom and is therefore subject to strong thermal fluctuations. In the linearized regime, dispersion relations become describable by polynomials with random coefficients. We give a short review of this topic and perform a numerical study of the distribution of the roots of polynomials whose coefficients are of the order of a Knudsen series but fluctuate in accordance with canonical fluctuations of temperature. We find that, remarkably, the analytic structure of the poles of fluctuating dispersion relations is very different from deterministic ones, particularly regarding the distribution of imaginary parts with respect to real components. We argue that this provides evidence that hydrodynamic behavior persists, and is enhanced, by nonperturbative background fluctuations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Forecasting the sensitivity of pulsar timing arrays to gravitational wave backgrounds
Authors: Babak Stanislav , Falxa Mikel , Franciolini Gabriele , Pieroni Mauro
Published: September 2024

Pulsar timing array (PTA) observations hinted towards the existence of a stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB) in the nHz frequency band. Still, the nature of the SGWB signal cannot be confidently inferred from current data, and the leading explanation invokes mergers of supermassive black holes. If confirmed, such discovery would not only represent a turning point in our understanding of astrophysics, but it may severely limit the capability of searching for additional cosmological sources in the nHz frequency range. In this work, we build a simple framework to forecast the sensitivity of future pulsar timing array configurations and assess the parameter estimation of SGWB, which could consist of several contributions. We release the code , implementing this framework and ready to use.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Schwarzschild Metric from Scattering Amplitudes to All Orders in
GN
Authors: Mougiakakos Stavros , Vanhove Pierre
Published: September 2024

We apply a formulation of Einstein’s general relativity with only cubic interactions for deriving the metric of a Schwarzschild black hole to all orders in perturbation theory. This cubic interactions formulation coupled to effective worldline action of a massive point particle allows to derive a recursion relation for the form factors of the off-shell graviton emission current. The unique solution to the recursion relation leads to the Schwarzschild black-hole solution in four dimensions. This provides the first derivation of the black hole metric from a matter source to all orders in perturbation theory from an amplitude approach.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Managing supply chain disruptions in pharmaceutical distribution: the roles of disruption orientation and mitigation strategies
Authors: Abdallah Ayman Bahjat , Al Bourini Bara' Omar , Al-Shorman Hussam Mohd
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The present study investigates the impact of supply chain disruption orientation (SCDO) on four supply chain disruption (SCD) mitigation strategies: supply chain integration (SCI), supply chain agility (SCA), supply chain visibility (SCV) and supply chain redundancy (SCR). It also examines the impact of the four mitigation strategies on SCD. The impact of the latter on business performance (BP) is also explored.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs an empirical approach through survey research methodology. It analyzes data collected from 304 managers from pharmaceutical distribution companies in Jordan. Appropriate validity and reliability tests were employed for the study constructs. Path analysis using AMOS software was performed to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

SCDO was found to positively affect all SCD mitigation strategies. Furthermore, among the four mitigation strategies examined, SCV exhibited the highest significant impact in reducing SCD, followed by SCA and then SCR. However, the results revealed that SCI did not significantly impact SCD. Additionally, SCD proved to be negatively and significantly related to BP.

Originality/value

The present study fills a gap in the literature regarding the management of SCDs in pharmaceutical supply chains (SCs) generally and SCs of pharmaceutical distribution companies specifically. It also addresses an under-investigated area in the literature concerning the role of SCDO in promoting the adoption of SCD mitigation strategies.
Ownership structure characteristics and banks performance
Authors: Emengini Emeka Steve , Moguluwa Shedrach Chinwuba , Aernan Johnson Emberga , Anago Jude Chidiebere
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of ownership structure on the accounting-based performance of listed Nigerian deposit money banks (DMBs) on Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) from 2011 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts ex post facto research design, using initially “the panel fixed and random effects regression analysis and Hausman specification test and thereafter, the IV Generalised method of moments (GMM) to check for endogeneity issues and strengthen the robustness of the results.

Findings

The one lagged value result reveals that ownership structure of DMBs in Nigeria has cumulative significant impact to influence corporate financial performance of the banks in the future. Overall, CEO, board/managerial, family, government and foreign ownership structures in DMBs in Nigeria do not have significant influence on accounting-based corporate financial performance of the banks. However, the study reveals that board/managerial ownership could significantly improve market value/growth of DMBs in Nigeria.

Practical implications

Policy makers, investors (both local and foreign), academics, corporate governance administrators, and the government could apply the study's findings to the management of banking operations in Nigeria.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the impact of five ownership structures on the accounting-based performance of DMBs in Nigeria from 2011 to 2020, providing valuable insights into the influence of stockholding categories on corporate financial performance, which is a shift from extant literatures with limited insights.
An empirical study on the implications of social media for sustainable construction and productivity in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Aliu John , Ukaha Onyeukwu Samuel , Jamir Singh Paramjit Singh , Azura Ramli Rosfaraliza , Shaharudin Samsurijan Mohamad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Despite the growing use of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in construction, the reasons behind adopting social media in this context and its real benefits for sustainable construction and productivity remain unclear. This study aims to examine how construction professionals perceive the impact of social media on sustainable construction and productivity in the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used a mixed-methods research approach (qualitative and quantitative), resulting in the formulation of a well-structured questionnaire which was distributed to construction professionals. Ordinal regression and multinomial logistic regression were carried out to assess the impact of social media use on sustainable construction and productivity enhancement, as well as the extent of social media utilization in construction projects.

Findings

Through exploratory factor analysis, five distinct clusters of social media consequences were identified, namely: information and knowledge sharing, community engagement and morale, environmental and resource management, disruptive and stressful effects and communication and collaboration. Furthermore, the extent of social media usage is closely related to three key factors: community engagement and morale, environmental and resource management and communication and collaboration.

Originality/value

This study represents one of the pioneering research efforts in Nigeria to investigate the implications of social media usage in the construction industry. Thus, future studies can build upon this research to further contribute to the multifaceted dimensions of social media’s impact on the construction industry.
Women entrepreneurs in rural Nigeria: formal versus informal credit schemes
Authors: Peter Wuraola , Orser Barbara
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study examines why low-wealth women entrepreneurs forgo mobile enabled money services and government supported micro finance for informal, community-based revolving loans in rural Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Thematic analysis of 25 interviews with women in rural, south-west Nigeria. Entrepreneurial ecosystem theory, in the gendered context of micro finance and community-based lending, is employed.

Findings

This study explains the paradox of forgoing seemingly accessible mobile enabled credit, and formal credit schemes (e.g. micro-finance programs) for informal, one-on-one borrowing. Convenience and trust-based relationships with respected community members ease the burden of time scarcity and vulnerability associated with formal capital. Flexible terms, autonomy, self-reliance and knowing who one is dealing with make Esusu a preferred source of finance. Findings are discussed in the context of gendered entrepreneurial ecosystems in which participants conduct business.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is not representative of women entrepreneurs in rural Nigeria. Survivorship bias is acknowledged. Further research is needed on the psychological risks of informal capital and the benefits of community-based lending.

Practical implications

Measures to scale mobile enabled credit, without commensurate interventions to address time management and other structural issues that confront women traders, limit their utility and impacts. Power differentials between women traders and lenders must also be considered in the design of lending products. Training of women traders and formal lenders should incorporate curricula about gender gaps in capital markets and systematic gender challenges to support entrepreneurs who seek to grow beyond subsistence enterprises.

Originality/value

This study documents decision criteria that motivate informal rural women traders to employ community-based revolving credit or Esusu. Findings inform measures to increase women entrepreneurs' access to capital in a rural sub-Saharan Africa contexts.
Three decades of WTO dispute settlement: insights from bibliometric literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Yaseen Iqra , Shafi Sofi Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive systematic literature review using bibliometric approach to investigate the academic structure of World Trade Organization Dispute Settlement research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines the bibliographic information for 1,858 articles from Scopus and the Australian Business Deans Council-indexed journals published between 1995 and 2024 using Dimensions.ai and Google Scholar search engines. Exploratory-cum-descriptive research design with bibliometric approach is used to answer the stated literature review research questions.

Findings

The data shows a gradual decline in WTO-Dispute Settlement System (WTO-DSS) research relative to the total international business area in the three decades. Developed countries appear as key contributors to the research, with the USA and the UK standing out as the most productive and influential research countries. The study shows a significant change in the focus of this research corpus from legalized to non-legalized approaches, with a greater emphasis on transparency and environmental sustainability. The research identifies global politics and international trade law as influential subjects in the discipline.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the study is a first of its kind where bibliometric approach has been used to study the evolution of WTO-DSS literature. The study adds to the understanding of WTO Dispute Settlement research patterns and recommends future research options.
Affordances-in-practice: unravelling blockchain-for-good in sustainable investment
Authors: Giamporcaro Stéphanie , Kuk George
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to make a distinction between actualized and claimed affordances of blockchain by examining how a specified user group interprets and translates the actualized affordances from a known use context into their existing practices. This allows us to develop and advance the concept of affordances-in-practice as an enactment of action possibilities through practices in a specified use context.

Design/methodology/approach

We focus on the field of sustainable investment (SI) and its relation to emerging blockchain technologies in the pursuit of sustainable development goals (SDGs). We used a field study involving 29 interviews with SI practitioners and blockchain entrepreneurs in South Africa, supplemented with an analysis of 91 practitioner and industry documents.

Findings

Our findings show that when there is a lack of actual use cases in the field of SI, the claimed affordances of blockchain are subject to a sensemaking process, which considers how action possibilities can be enacted and transformed through practices and how institutional constraints and socio-cognitive barriers can determine the available action possibilities.

Research limitations/implications

A notable limitation relates to the relative novelty and emerging status of blockchain. As affordances are based on available information and experience, this leaves room for claimed affordances. We discuss the implications of the interplay of the actualized and claimed affordances in blockchain applications in the field of SI.

Practical implications

We discuss the practical implications of addressing claimed affordances and field opacity in the SI field.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine blockchain affordances for good in the context of achieving SDGs through SI. Our affordances-in-practice framework holds theoretical promise to pinpoint and explain how practices can shape action possibilities despite having difficulties in evaluating the underlying technological potentialities.
Profiling teacher leaders through entrepreneurial behaviours: a cluster analysis
Authors: Ho Chun Sing Maxwell , Eyal Ori , Man Thomas Wing Yan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Literature on teacher leadership highlights a significant gap in understanding the role of teacher leaders (TLs) as entrepreneurs. This research aims to bridge this gap by examining the multifaceted entrepreneurial dimension of teacher leadership. It specifically focuses on providing a comprehensive profile of these leaders and assessing their perceived influence on teachers’ outcome, which are important for improving school performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-step clustering procedure was utilized to discern profiles of teacher leaders’ entrepreneurial behaviours, sampling 586 participants in a teacher leader training program. To assess mean differences in relation to perceived influence on teacher outcomes (i.e. job satisfaction, intrateam trust and innovative teaching practices) among these clusters, two-way contingency table analysis and MANOVA were conducted.

Findings

We identified three teacher-leader profiles: congenial facilitators, champion-leaders and executors. Our findings reveal the unique strengths and weaknesses of each profile and their contributions to job satisfaction, intrateam trust and innovative teaching practices.

Originality/value

This study is innovative in its detailed examination of teacher leadership through the lens of Teacher Entrepreneurial Behaviour (TEB), providing new perspectives on the intricate relationships between teacher leaders' TEB and their perceived influences. This deeper insight emphasizes the important role of entrepreneurial behaviours within teacher leadership, suggesting new directions for further research and development in educational leadership practices.
Numerical study of hybrid nanofluid and thermal transport in sun-powered energy ship within the application of parabolic trough solar collectors
Authors: Obalalu A.M. , Fatunmbi E.O. , Madhukesh J.K. , Shah S.H.A.M. , Khan Umair , Ishak Anuar , Muhammad Taseer
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Recent advancements in technology have led to the exploration of solar-based thermal radiation and nanotechnology in the field of fluid dynamics. Solar energy is captured through sunlight absorption, acting as the primary source of heat. Various solar technologies, such as solar water heating and photovoltaic cells, rely on solar energy for heat generation. This study focuses on investigating heat transfer mechanisms by utilizing a hybrid nanofluid within a parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC) to advance research in solar ship technology. The model incorporates multiple effects that are detailed in the formulation.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical model is transformed using suitable similarity transformations into a system of higher-order nonlinear differential equations. The model was solved by implementing a numerical procedure based on the Wavelets and Chebyshev wavelet method for simulating the outcome.

Findings

The velocity profile is reduced by Deborah's number and velocity slip parameter. The Ag-EG nanoparticles mixture demonstrates less smooth fluid flow compared to the significantly smoother fluid flow of the Ag-Fe3O4/EG hybrid nanofluids (HNFs). Additionally, the Ag-Ethylene Glycol nanofluids (NFs) exhibit higher radiative performance compared to the Ag-Fe3O4/Ethylene Glycol hybrid nanofluids (HNFs).

Practical implications

Additionally, the Oldroyd-B hybrid nanofluid demonstrates improved thermal conductivity compared to traditional fluids, making it suitable for use in cooling systems and energy applications in the maritime industry.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in the exploration of the thermal transport enhancement in sun-powered energy ships through the incorporation of silver-magnetite hybrid nanoparticles within the heat transfer fluid circulating in parabolic trough solar collectors. This particular aspect has not been thoroughly researched previously. The findings have been validated and provide a highly positive comparison with the research papers.
COVID-19 impact on cross-border M&A advisory business in Japan
Authors: Bebenroth Ralf , Lielienthal Carolin , Massmann Kevin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to shed light on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cross-border M&A advisory business in Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the grounded theory approach and trust embedded in network theory, the authors conducted interviews with 12 Japanese senior M&A advisors from 8 different advisory firms, categorizing the results into three general themes.

Findings

The first theme comprises deep insights contributing to a “decrease in M&A deals” during the COVID-19 crisis as not many deals could be advised while several were canceled. The second theme is “time delays,” with ongoing deals taking more time to be completed. The third gen-eral theme concerns the “new normal” after the COVID-19 era, as M&A advisors have learned to cope with their challenges and are subsequently more efficient, especially time-wise, in dealing with clients.

Research limitations/implications

The research was based on qualitative data gathered from only 12 interviewees from 8 different consultancies who were Japanese senior M&A advisors.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this research go beyond the findings of M&A studies conducted during and soon after the COVID-19 pandemic. Consulting firms commonly report on the COVID-19 impact on M&A markets or client firms but are silent about their own hardships in establishing trustful relationships with clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, we turn the spotlight on the consulting firms themselves to understand their challenges.

Originality/value

The originality of this research goes beyond previous studies on the economic impact of firms; the authors lay out the foundation for the hardship of establishing trustful relationships between M&A advisors and their clients during the COVID-19 crisis. The three general themes elucidated the impact of the pandemic, highlighting the challenges confronting the Japanese M&A advisory business. These themes thus provide a more nuanced understanding of the COVID-19 impact.
Analysis of disease burden in patients with hereditary angioedema from Japan by patient‐reported outcomes
Authors: Hide Michihiro , Kishimoto Miwa , Kotera Ippei , Oh Akinori , Inoue Yoichi , Yamamoto Beverley Anne , Noto Shinichi
Published: September 2024

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) symptoms can vary greatly. Disease burden evaluation is essential for providing adequate treatments for patients. Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs), including the 12‐Item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐12), the Angioedema Quality of Life (AE‐QoL), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: Specific Health Problem (WPAI:SHP) questionnaires, were collected in 2021, before modern medications for long‐term prophylaxis (LTP) of HAE were licensed in Japan. Patients also reported their HAE attack frequency as “annual” (several attacks annually), “monthly” (several attacks monthly) or “weekly” (several attacks weekly). Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted on the relationship between independent parameters (sex, age, attack frequency, HAE type, and HADS scores) and dependent parameters (AE‐QoL and SF‐12 scores). Fifty‐four patients reported PROMs. All PROMs showed substantial health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) impairment. Overall, the higher the attack frequencies, the greater the reported impairment in the PROMs tended to be. In multiple linear regression analyses, higher AE‐QoL Fatigue/Mood and Fears/Shame domain scores (greater impairment) were associated with higher HADS anxiety subscale scores; higher AE‐QoL total scores (greater HRQoL impairment) and lower SF‐12 Physical and Mental Health Composite scores (greater general health impairment) were associated with higher HADS depression subscale scores. Patients with monthly or weekly HAE attacks reported numerically low absenteeism and numerically high presenteeism and work productivity loss as measured by the WPAI:SHP questionnaire. In this study, conducted before modern LTP options were available in Japan, patients with HAE reported notable impairment in HRQoL and work productivity. Weekly or monthly HAE attack frequencies were associated with a high disease burden. Furthermore, a substantial number of patients reported notable fatigue/mood impairment as measured by the AE‐QoL and depression as measured by the HADS regardless of attack frequency. These results provide a basis for future studies evaluating the effect of LTP on the clinical manifestations and HRQoL in patients with HAE.
‘SANCTUARY FOR ALL’ OR ‘SANCTUARY FOR THE DESERVING’: How Municipal Bureaucracies Mediate and Decide Contentious Struggles over Urban Citizenship
Authors: Nicholls Walter
Published: September 2024

During the late 2010s, pro‐immigrant activists in the politically progressive municipality of Mayville, California (pseudonym) mounted a campaign to enact a radically egalitarian sanctuary city policy (“sanctuary for all”) that would have changed the boundaries of urban citizenship. The campaign crafted compelling and resonant mobilization frames, constructed a broad and diverse coalition, won the support of large majorities of the public, and targeted elected officials who were all supportive of the rights of immigrant residents. Such conditions, according to literature on immigration politics and urban citizenship, should have resulted in success, but this was not entirely the case. Elected officials did open the policymaking process in response to pressure from activists, but a far‐reaching policy never emerged. Drawing on the work of Pierre Bourdieu, this article develops the concept of the ‘bureaucratic field’ to explain how the distinctive and relatively autonomous power dynamics of a municipality shapes policy outcomes (despite advantages in the political field). The article concludes that without a robust theory of the bureaucratic field, contemporary theorists of social movements and urban citizenship cannot explain the disparity between highly advantageous conditions in progressive political fields and the paucity of transformative policy outcomes.
A proposed method for identifying Interfacility transfers in Medicare claims data
Authors: Nikpay Sayeh , Leeberg Michelle , Kozhimannil Katy , Ward Michael , Wolfson Julian , Graves John , Virnig Beth A.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To develop a method of consistently identifying interfacility transfers (IFTs) in Medicare Claims using patients with ST‐Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) as an example.

Data Sources/Study Setting

100% Medicare inpatient and outpatient Standard Analytic Files and 5% Carrier Files, 2011–2020.

Study Design

Observational, cross‐sectional comparison of patient characteristics between proposed and existing methods.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We limited to patients aged 65+ with STEMI diagnosis using both proposed and existing methods.

Principal Findings

We identified 62,668 more IFTs using the proposed method (86,128 versus 23,460). A separately billable interfacility ambulance trip was found for more IFTs using the proposed than existing method (86% vs. 79%). Compared with the existing method, transferred patients under the proposed method were more likely to live in rural (p < 0.001) and lower income (p < 0.001) counties and were located farther away from emergency departments, trauma centers, and intensive care units (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Identifying transferred patients based on two consecutive inpatient claims results in an undercount of IFTs and under‐represents rural and low‐income patients.
Low‐calorie d‐allulose as a sucrose alternative modulates the physicochemical properties and volatile profile of sponge cake
Authors: Xie Xiaofang , Yu Lingyin , Lin Qiongxi , Huang Dejian
Published: September 2024

d‐Allulose, a C‐3 epimer of d‐fructose, is a rare sugar with ∼70% of the sweetness of sucrose but a caloric content of only 0.4 kcal/g. Due to its low‐calorie nature, d‐allulose has garnered increasing interest in the food industry. This study was the first attempt to explore the effect of d‐allulose as a sucrose replacer on the properties of sponge cake, a widely consumed high‐sugar product. Substituting sucrose with d‐allulose generated negligible impact on the batter system, while pronounced differences in physicochemical properties of cakes were detected, including specific volume, texture, microstructure, color, and antioxidant activity. In addition, sponge cake containing d‐allulose displayed a distinctive aroma volatile profile, with more furans and pyrazines generation. Furthermore, correlations of physicochemical properties across all formulations were depicted, and the potential mechanism behind the property alterations modulated by d‐allulose was revealed from the perspectives of starch gelatinization and browning reactions. Overall, this study provides insights into the application potential of d‐allulose as a sucrose substitute in bakery product.

Practical Application

This study elucidates the effect of d‐allulose as a low‐calorie sugar substitute on sponge cakes. This finding is valuable for the food industry, providing insights into a healthier alternative to traditional sugar in baked goods.
Development of a magnetic separation method for rapid isolation and enrichment of bacteria in raw pork using chitosan functionalized magnetic Fe3O4@MIL‐100(Fe) composites
Authors: Du Juan , Li Zongshuang , Guo Jiangli , Du Kaidong , Chen Zhijian , Bai Yanhong
Published: September 2024

In this study, a pretreatment method based on a magnetic capture probe for the rapid isolation and enrichment of bacteria from raw pork was developed. The chitosan immobilized Fe3O4@MIL‐100(Fe) was prepared as a capture probe for total bacterial counts through the electrostatic interaction of positively charged chitosan and the negatively charged substances on the surface of bacteria. The interference of matrix in pork samples on this method was studied and removed by differential centrifugation. The results showed the capture probe had a great selectivity binding and magnetic separation properties for the tested six common bacteria in pork. Under the optimal conditions, the capture efficiency of the bacteria (105 CFU mL−1) from pork surface samples was all above 90%. The capture efficiency of the bacteria in a homogenate system was greatly decreased due to the interference of sarcoplasmic protein and myofibrillar protein in pork. The matrix effect was mitigated by a differential centrifugation method, and the capture efficiency of all six bacteria was >80%. The developed magnetic separation method took 40 min and showed good isolation and enrichment properties of bacteria. Thus, the proposed method is expected to provide a simple, convenient, and time‐saving pretreatment method for the detection of total bacterial counts in pork.
Towards the autonomous defence capabilities of the European Union: Upgrading cyber defence policy
Authors: Ortiz Hernández Eimys
Published: September 2024

Cyber attacks against the EU and its Member States have increased in recent times, which demonstrates the rapid blurring of the boundaries between the civilian and military components of cyberspace. Indeed, these events clearly highlight the critical interdependence between physical and digital infrastructures. While Member States have different and divergent perceptions of the prevailing threats, the EU, as guarantor of security, has been implementing strategies since the early 2000s to pursue a joint action aligned with the objective outlined in Article 24 of the TEU, namely, a common European defence also in cyberspace. This paper will thoroughly analyse the latest European initiative on cyber defence policy, adopted in November 2022, to highlight new aspects and previous elements trying to answer whether we are making any real progress in this area.
Left pulmonary vein anatomical variation in Turner syndrome. Benefits of three‐dimensional visualization for surgical planning
Authors: Drevet Gabrielle , Soldea Valentin , Tronc François
Published: September 2024

A 41 year‐old female with a medical history of Turner syndrome underwent a chest computed tomography (CT) scan which revealed a varicose left pulmonary vein and an endobronchial tumor of the left lower lobe. As venous drainage of each lobe seemed to be respected, surgical resection was considered. During surgical exploration, the absence of fissure and a unique venous trunk was observed. Surgical resection was aborted as only pneumonectomy was possible in this context. Endobronchial resection was performed. To better understand this particular anatomy, a three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction was performed a posteriori. This technique is already commonly used in the preoperative planning of pulmonary segmentectomy. Here, we have shown its interest in a lung malformative context.
The presence of abandonment: Left to live at the borderland of Lampedusa
Authors: Corso Alessandro , Mookherjee Nayanika
Published: September 2024

Drawing from the extensive literature on the anthropology of borders and border death in and beyond Europe, this article ethnographically explores the processes through which irregular migrants and locals at the borderland of Lampedusa (south of Sicily, Italy) are left to live and die in abandonment. In the process, we highlight the distinct and antagonistic yet shared sense of neglect that both migrants and locals experience in their everyday lives on the island and explore the relationship between abandonment, the everyday, and the law, showing how these are interwoven. By including both irregular migrants and locals in Lampedusa in our analysis, the article importantly establishes how abandonment occurs not in the absence but in the indeterminacy of the law and highlights a chronic failure of the law toward life (deemed as legal and illegal). It moves beyond traditional anthropological critiques on state presence and absence, showing how abandonment pervades everyday life within and beyond borders.
Predicting complications in paediatric ulcerative colitis: A longitudinal multicentre cohort study
Authors: Claßen Merle , Schiller Benjamin , Däbritz Jan ,   the CEDATA‐GPGE Study Group
Published: September 2024

Background

To prevent complications of paediatric ulcerative colitis (UC), it is critical to understand their predictors. The Paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Ahead (PIBD Ahead) program identified the relevant outcomes and their potential predictors. However, external validation of these results in larger cohorts is required.

Aims

The aim of this study is to investigate these outcomes and their predictors.

Methods

We included 743 patients aged under 18 years with UC from the multicentre German‐Austrian CEDATA‐GPGE registry. We performed Cox regressions, Kaplan–Meier estimator, and receiver operating characteristics curve analyses to analyse predictors of poor outcomes.

Results

Older age at diagnosis was associated with relapse, hospitalisation, the use of immunomodulators, use of biologics, and therapy escalation. Higher disease activity, as in acute severe colitis in the first 3 months, was significantly associated with further acute severe colitis and the need for biologics. Upper gastrointestinal tract involvement was a risk factor for the need of intravenous corticosteroids and biologics. A faecal calprotectin of >685 μg/g was associated with a higher risk of subsequent acute severe colitis with a sensitivity of 79.0% and a specificity of 59.1%. A lower haematocrit at diagnosis was predictive of the use of biologics. Colectomy was rare.

Conclusions

This study validates predictors of poor outcomes in paediatric patients with UC. Our results might help physicians to anticipate poor outcomes and initiate appropriate treatment strategies at an early stage.
Errors associated with co‐names of medicines: The nomenclature of combination medicinal products
Authors: Kavanagh Oisín N. , Lowe Robert , Aronson Jeffrey K.
Published: September 2024

In comparison to the efforts required to bring a new drug or formulation to the clinic, bestowing a name on a medicine is relatively simple. However, if the name we choose causes confusion—by making its contents ambiguous or if it is too alike another drug—it can precipitate clinical errors. This prompted the World Health Organization to set up the International Nonproprietary Naming Committee in the 1970s to select unambiguous names for drugs. Unfortunately, multidrug products—which are becoming increasingly popular—do not fall under the remit of conventional International Non‐proprietary Nomenclature. We have identified 26 combination formulations that have been historically named with the co‐drug format in the United Kingdom. Most of them have also been prescribed in the United Kingdom in the past year, and although several of them are not prescribed very often, 11 were prescribed more than 2000 times. In this paper, we have explored the literature to identify prescribing errors with co‐drug products and found several idiosyncrasies that have caused drug errors in the past. We advocate for a standard nomenclature (state the international nonproprietary name [INN] of each component followed by dose information in the x + y format) for these products on the box and in prescribing resources. We hope that this will enhance clarity and safety during prescribing and administration, particularly for high‐volume drugs like paracetamol + codeine (co‐codamol), amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (co‐amoxiclav) and trimethoprim + sulfamethoxazole (co‐trimoxazole).
Efficiency of computerized clinical decision support systems involving anticoagulants: A flashmob study in Dutch hospital pharmacies
Authors: Graafsma Jetske , van de Garde Ewoudt M. W. , Derijks Hieronymus J. , Hoge Rien H. L. , Klopotowska Joanna E. , Karapinar‐Carkit Fatma , van den Bemt Patricia M. L. A. ,   for the Dutch CDSS‐efficiency study group
Published: September 2024

Aims

Computerized decision support systems (CDSSs) aim to prevent adverse drug events. However, these systems generate an overload of alerts that are not always clinically relevant. Anticoagulants are frequently involved in these alerts. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of CDSS alerts on anticoagulants in Dutch hospital pharmacies.

Methods

A multicentre, single‐day, cross‐sectional study was conducted using a flashmob design in Dutch hospital pharmacies, which have CDSSs that operate on both a national medication surveillance database and on self‐developed clinical rules. Hospital pharmacists and pharmacy technicians collected data on the number and type of alerts and time needed for assessing these alerts. The primary outcome was the CDSS efficiency on anticoagulants, defined as the percentage of alerts on anticoagulants that led to an intervention. Secondary outcomes where among other CDSSs efficiency related to any medications and the time expenditure. Descriptive data‐analysis was used.

Results

Of the 69 hospital pharmacies invited, 42 (61%) participated. The efficiency of CDSS alerts on anticoagulants was 4.0% (interquartile range [IQR] 14.0%) for the national medication surveillance database alerts and 14.3% (IQR 40.0%) for alerts from clinical rules. For any medication, the efficiency was lower: 1.8% (IQR 7.5%) and 13.4% (IQR 21.5%) respectively. The median time for assessing the relevance of all alerts was 2 (IQR 1:21) h/day for pharmacists and 6 (IQR 5:01) h/day for pharmacy technicians.

Conclusion

CDSS efficiency is generally low, both for anticoagulants and any medication, while the time investment is high. Optimization of CDSSs is needed.
The potential benefits of concomitant statins treatment in patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Liu Kang , Nicoletti Rossella , Zhao Hongda , Chen Xuan , Chiu Peter Ka‐Fung , Ng Chi‐Fai , Pichler Renate , Mertens Laura S. , Yanagisawa Takafumi , Afferi Luca , Mari Andrea , Katayama Satoshi , Rivas Juan Gomez , Campi Riccardo , Mir Maria Carmen , Rink Michael , Lotan Yair , Rouprêt Morgan , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate the influence of statins on the survival outcomes of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) treated with adjuvant intravesical bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective cohort of consecutive patients with NMIBC who received intravesical BCG therapy from 2001 to 2020 and statins prescription were identified. Overall survival (OS), cancer‐specific survival (CSS), recurrence‐free survival (RFS), and progression‐free survival (PFS) were analysed between the Statins Group vs No‐Statins Group using Kaplan–Meier method and multivariable Cox regression.

Results

A total of 2602 patients with NMIBC who received intravesical BCG were identified. The median follow‐up was 11.0 years. On Kaplan–Meier analysis, the Statins Group had significant better OS (P < 0.001), CSS (P < 0.001), and PFS (P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis indicated statins treatment started before BCG treatment had better CSS (P = 0.02) and PFS (P < 0.01). Upon multivariable Cox regression analysis, the ‘statins before BCG’ group was an independent protective factor for OS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.607, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.514–0.716), and CSS (HR 0.571, 95% CI 0.376–0.868), but not RFS (HR 0.885, 95% CI 0.736–1.065), and PFS (HR 0.689, 95% CI 0.469–1.013).

Conclusions

Statins treatment appears to offer protective effects on OS and CSS for patients with NMIBC receiving adjuvant intravesical BCG.