bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Detailed Study of the Quantum Decoherence of Entangled Gamma Photons
Authors: Bordes Julien , Brown James R. , Watts Daniel P. , Bashkanov Mikhail , Gibson Kieran , Newton Ruth , Zachariou Nicholas
Published: September 2024

Constraints on the quantum decoherence of entangled γ quanta at the mega-electron-volt scale, such as those produced following positron annihilation, have remained elusive for many decades. We present the first statistically and kinematically precise experimental data for triple Compton scattering of such entangled γ. An entanglement witness (R), relating to the enhancement of the azimuthal correlation between the final scattering planes, is obtained where one of the γ underwent intermediate Compton scattering. The measured R, deconvolved from multiple scattering backgrounds, are found to exceed the classical limit for intermediate scatter angles up to ∼60° and diminish at larger angles. The data are consistent with predictions from a first quantum theory of entangled triple Compton scattering as well as a simple model based approach. The results are crucial to future study and utilization of entangled mega-electron-volt γ in fundamental physics and positron emission tomography imaging.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Energy-dispersive Laue diffraction analysis of the influence of statherin and histatin on the crystallographic texture during human dental enamel demineralization
Authors: Sakr Charbel , Al-Mosawi Mohammed , Grünewald Tilman A. , Cook Philip , Tack Pieter , Vincze Laszlo , Micha Jean-Sebastien , Anderson Paul , Al-Jawad Maisoon , Lichtenegger Helga C.
Published: September 2024

Energy-dispersive Laue diffraction (EDLD) is a powerful method to obtain position-resolved texture information in inhomogeneous biological samples without the need for sample rotation. This study employs EDLD texture scanning to investigate the impact of two salivary peptides, statherin (STN) and histatin-1 (HTN) 21 N-terminal peptides (STN21 and HTN21), on the crystallographic structure of dental enamel. These proteins are known to play crucial roles in dental caries progression. Three healthy incisors were randomly assigned to three groups: artificially demineralized, demineralized after HTN21 peptide pre-treatment and demineralized after STN21 peptide pre-treatment. To understand the micro-scale structure of the enamel, each specimen was scanned from the enamel surface to a depth of 250 µm using microbeam EDLD. Via the use of a white beam and a pixelated detector, where each pixel functions as a spectrometer, pole figures were obtained in a single exposure at each measurement point. The results revealed distinct orientations of hydroxyapatite crystallites and notable texture variation in the peptide-treated demineralized samples compared with the demineralized control. Specifically, the peptide-treated demineralized samples exhibited up to three orientation populations, in contrast to the demineralized control which displayed only a single orientation population. The texture index of the demineralized control (2.00 ± 0.21) was found to be lower than that of either the STN21 (2.32 ± 0.20) or the HTN21 (2.90 ± 0.46) treated samples. Hence, texture scanning with EDLD gives new insights into dental enamel crystallite orientation and links the present understanding of enamel demineralization to the underlying crystalline texture. For the first time, the feasibility of EDLD texture measurements for quantitative texture evaluation in demineralized dental enamel samples is demonstrated.
Synthesis, crystal structure and properties of μ-tetrathioantimonato-bis[(cyclam)zinc(II)] perchlorate 0.8-hydrate
Authors: Näther Christian , Lühmann Henning , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

The reaction of Zn(ClO4)2·6H2O with Na3SbS4·9H2O in a water/acetonitrile mixture leads to the formation of the title compound, (μ-tetrathioantimonato-κ2
S:S′)bis[(1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane-κ4
N)zinc(II)] perchlorate 0.8-hydrate, [Zn2(SbS4)(C10H24N4)2]ClO4·0.8H2O or [(Zn-cyclam)2(SbS4)]+[ClO4]−·0.8H2O. The asymmetric unit consists of two crystallographically independent [SbS4]3– anions, two independent perchlorate anions and two independent water molecules as well as four crystallographically independent Zn(cyclam)2+ cations that are located in general positions. Both perchlorate anions and one cyclam ligand are disordered and were refined with a split mode using restraints. The water molecules are partially occupied. Two Zn(cyclam)2+ cations are linked via the [SbS4]3– anions into [Zn2(cyclam)2SbS4]+ cations that are charged-balanced by the [ClO4]− anions. The water molecules of crystallization are hydrogen bonded to the [SbS4]3– anions. The cations, anions and water molecules are linked by N—H...O, N—H...S and O—H...S hydrogen bonds into a three-dimensional network. Powder X-ray diffraction proves that a pure sample had been obtained that was additionally investigated for its spectroscopic properties.
(Re)Emergence of the factor zoo debate: a bibliometric review
Authors: Guimarães Paulo Roberto , Kimura Herbert
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Asset pricing literature is facing a credibility crisis, given debates associated with publication biases, data mining, replicability, crowding and lack of theoretic foundations. This study proposes that emerging markets (EMs), with their specific socioeconomic characteristics and lesser financial integration with developed markets (DMs), might provide useful arguments to the debate and improve our understanding of asset pricing. Beyond out-of-sample evidence for DM findings, EM research can unveil regional-specific factors overlooked by mainstream literature and investigating reasons behind differences can reveal epistemological elements for proposing and testing theories, and clarifying causal mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The present work conducts an EM-focused systematic review, by applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol, a transparent and replicable procedure, to gather a representative collection of papers and using bibliometric methods to analyze bibliographic data.

Findings

Besides summarizing and contextualizing scientific production, revealing most important themes and actors, we confirm a clear bias toward DM and identify low scientific collaboration among EM. Additionally, we assess to which extent current studies fulfills EM research potential.

Originality/value

There is a home bias in literature, with most studies focusing on DM. This systematic review is exclusive to EM literature and suggests how EM research can improve literature credibility.
Alcohol and brain structure across the lifespan: A systematic review of large‐scale neuroimaging studies
Authors: Karoly Hollis C. , Kirk‐Provencher Katelyn T. , Schacht Joseph P. , Gowin Joshua L.
Published: September 2024

Alcohol exposure affects brain structure, but the extent to which its effects differ across development remains unclear. Several countries are considering changes to recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption, so high‐quality evidence is needed. Many studies have been conducted among small samples, but recent efforts have been made to acquire large samples to characterize alcohol's effects on the brain on a population level. Several large‐scale consortia have acquired such samples, but this evidence has not been synthesized across the lifespan. We conducted a systematic review of large‐scale neuroimaging studies examining effects of alcohol exposure on brain structure at multiple developmental stages. We included studies with an alcohol‐exposed sample of at least N = 100 from the following consortia: ABCD, ENIGMA, NCANDA, IMAGEN, Framingham Offspring Study, HCP and UK BioBank. Twenty‐seven studies were included, examining prenatal (N = 1), adolescent (N = 9), low‐to‐moderate‐level adult (N = 11) and heavy adult (N = 7) exposure. Prenatal exposure was associated with greater brain volume at ages 9–10, but contemporaneous alcohol consumption during adolescence and adulthood was associated with smaller volume/thickness. Both low‐to‐moderate consumption and heavy consumption were characterized by smaller volume and thickness in frontal, temporal and parietal regions, and reductions in insula, cingulate and subcortical structures. Adolescent consumption had similar effects, with less consistent evidence for smaller cingulate, insula and subcortical volume. In sum, prenatal exposure was associated with larger volume, while adolescent and adult alcohol exposure was associated with smaller volume and thickness, suggesting that regional patterns of effects of alcohol are similar in adolescence and adulthood.
Traces of Bronze Age globalization in East Asia: Insights from a revised phylogeography of the Y‐chromosome haplogroup Q1a1a‐M120
Authors: Mai La‐Su , Zhang Xian‐Peng , Liu Kai‐Jun , Ma Peng‐Cheng , Li Hui , Sun Jin , Wei Lan‐Hai
Published: September 2024

Objective

In this study, we aim to explore the genetic imprint of Bronze Age globalization in East Asia from a phylogeographic perspective by examining the Y‐chromosome haplogroup Q1a1a‐M120, and to identify key demographic processes involved in the formation of early China and the ancient Huaxia people.

Methods

Over the past few decades, we have collected the sequences of 347 Y chromosomes from the haplogroup Q1a1a‐M120. These sequences were utilized to analyze and reconstruct a highly revised phylogenetic tree with age estimates. And we analyzed the geographical distribution and spatial autocorrelation of nine major sub‐branches of Q1a1a‐M120. Finally, we observed the expansion of Q1a1a‐M120 from the beginning of the Bronze Age in East Asia, along with the continuous dissemination of its sub‐lineages among East Asian populations.

Results

We suggest that certain sub‐lineages played a significant role in the formation of states and early civilizations in China, as well as in the development of the ancient Huaxia people, who are the direct ancestors of the Han population. Overall, we propose that haplogroup Q‐M120 played a role in the introduction of Bronze Age culture to the central region of East Asia. Therefore, it is haplogroup Q‐M120, rather than the Western Eurasian paternal lineage, that expanded and contributed to the gene pool of the East Asian population.

Conclusion

In summary, the globalization of the Bronze Age led to large‐scale population replacement and admixture across various regions of Eurasia; our findings highlight the unique demographic processes that occurred in East Asia during this period.
HIV‐Associated Genital Immune Biomarkers in the Female Sex Worker Population: A Pilot Study
Authors: Capozzi Eleanor , Daniels Jason , Mohamed Hani , Mejia Fernando Cabezas , Sternberg David , Bouey Jennifer , Ghosh Mimi
Published: September 2024

Problem

Female sex workers (FSW) experience a disproportionately high burden of HIV infection, yet characterization of the vaginal immune microenvironment that may impact biological risk is not well studied among FSW in the United States. Additionally, feasible methodology for collecting biological materials has not been evaluated in this population.

Methods

We enrolled 10 FSW (5 premenopausal, 5 postmenopausal) who participated in a survey and provided vaginal swabs. Biomarkers were assessed by ELISA, and included cytokines, chemokines, and antimicrobial/wound‐healing mediators.

Results

One hundred percent of FSW were African American, with a median age of 43.5. The median age when participants started sex work was 17.5, with 60% working 7 days per week and seeing up to 10 clients per night. Eighty percent reported recent unprotected sex and only 30% used some form of contraception. One self‐reported sexually transmitted infection at the time of visit and two reported living with HIV. Vaginal secretions showed detectable levels of all biomarkers tested, except MIP3α and MIP1α, which were undetectable in all samples. When stratified by age/menopause status, no significant changes were observed except for Serpin A1 with higher median levels in premenopausal compared to postmenopausal FSW (median 5.79 vs. 5.205 log pg/mL, p = 0.016). Comparison with samples from an existing repository of non‐FSW women showed significantly reduced chemokines IL8 (p = 0.045), MIP3α (p ≤ 0.001), and MIP1β (p = 0.015) in the FSW group.

Conclusions

We report characterization of the vaginal secretome in a cohort of FSW in the United States. Understanding of the genital immune microenvironment can inform future research in HIV prevention and therapeutic options in this population.
Behavioural Problems in Preadolescence: Does Nutritional Status Have a Role?
Authors: Khan Bushra , Hameed Waqas , Avan Bilal Iqbal
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Malnutrition in children and adolescents is a global issue particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries, while behavioural problems are becoming a growing public health concern in the area of child and adolescent mental health, with very few studies examining their association in preadolescence. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological relationship between malnutrition and behavioural problems in preadolescence.

Methods

A school based, cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan. Total 660, 11‐ to 12‐year‐old preadolescents were selected from a middle‐class, coeducational school chain. Sociodemographic questionnaires and an officially adapted version of Youth Self‐Report Form (YSR), which is the child and adolescent reported version of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), were used to collect data, along with anthropometric assessments following the WHO protocol.

Results

Thin and stunted preadolescents had significantly higher odds of internalizing problems (AOR = 2.05, p = 0.003 and AOR = 2.09, p = 0.039, respectively) than normal ones. Overnutrition was not associated with any behavioural issues. According to the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure, 40% of preadolescents had at least one type of malnutrition and among them about 3% had co‐occurring malnutrition (stunted and thin or overweight). They significantly had higher risk of being associated with the internalizing problems (AOR 2.92, p = 0.027). The effect was considerably higher than that associated with stunted or thin only, highlighting the cumulative impact of the co‐occurring malnutrition on the internalizing problems.

Conclusion

Our study concludes that overnutrition and undernutrition are prevalent in preadolescents, with significant association of undernutrition with internalizing problems. Moreover, our study is the first that reports that the co‐occurrence of malnutrition is significantly associated with increased risk of internalizing problems. This study highlights the importance of the link between physical and mental health and emphasizes the need for holistic interventions and programmes for addressing preadolescents' issues.
Perceptions of children's participation as patients in health interactions
Authors: Jones Kelli , Scholz Brett
Published: September 2024

Children who actively participate in their health interactions benefit from greater likelihood of better health outcomes, and development of competency, autonomy and decision‐making skills. However, children are often passive participants in their health care. This study aims to improve understandings of child patients', parents' and health professionals' perceptions of children's participation as patients in health interactions, through a theoretical framework of child‐centred care. An exploratory, qualitative design using a story completion method was used. Participants (28 children, 22 parents and 17 health professionals) constructed stories about a child patient's medical appointment. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings are discussed in relation to the themes of (1) children's willingness to participate, and (2) what doctors were perceived to be focussed on. Findings suggest that health professionals might require training to develop child‐specific communication skills. Health care organisations should consider implementation of child‐centred care principles in every aspect of services they provide.
Chest X‐Ray Comparison Between Drug‐Resistant and Drug‐Sensitive Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children
Authors: Zuhriyyah Saffanah Az , Nugraha Harry Galuh , Setiabudi Djatnika , Santoso Prayudi , Nataprawira Heda Melinda
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Chest X‐ray (CXR) remains one of the tools used in diagnosing tuberculosis (TB). However, few studies about such tools exist, specifically in children in Indonesia. We aim to investigate and compare the CXR findings of children with pulmonary drug‐resistant TB (DR‐TB) and drug‐sensitive TB (DS‐TB) that could help in the evaluation and management of TB cases in children.

Methods

Retrospective analysis with cross‐sectional approach was conducted in children (<18 years old) diagnosed with pulmonary DR‐TB and DS‐TB from January 2018 to December 2021. Documented data were collected from the Paediatric Respirology Registry and Tuberculosis Information System at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital Bandung. Characteristics of children, CXR findings, and TB severity were assessed and compared using the chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests with significance levels set at p value <0.05.

Results

Sixty‐nine children (DR‐TB 31 children vs. DS‐TB 38 children) were assessed. Of the 31 children with DR‐TB, 65% were classified as multidrug‐resistant TB (MDR‐TB), followed by rifampicin‐resistant TB (RR‐TB), pre‐extensively drug‐resistant TB (pre‐XDR‐TB), and extensively drug‐resistant TB (XDR‐TB). The most common CXR findings in DR‐TB are consolidation (68%), fibrosis (42%), and cavity (29%), whereas in DS‐TB, it is pleura effusion (37%). Severe TB accounts for 50% of DR‐TB (p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Consolidation, fibrosis, cavities, and findings of severe TB are most common in DR‐TB. Pleural effusion is the most common in DS‐TB. These findings have the potential to be considered in further examination of children with pulmonary DR‐TB and DS‐TB; hence, more extensive studies are needed to confirm these results.
Adrenergic dysfunction in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hendrix Jolien , Fanning Lara , Wyns Arne , Ahmed Ishtiaq , Patil Madhura Shekhar , Richter Emma , Van Campenhout Jente , Ickmans Kelly , Mertens Rembert , Nijs Jo , Godderis Lode , Polli Andrea
Published: September 2024

Background

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and fibromyalgia (FM) are comorbid disorders with overlapping symptoms. Research highlights autonomic dysfunction compared to healthy individuals, particularly involving the sympathetic branch. While past reviews focused on neurophysiological assessments, this systematic review summarises biological adrenergic markers, offering deeper insights into the observed sympathetic dysfunction in ME/CFS and FM aiming to identify targetable pathophysiological mechanisms.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus. Studies investigating peripheral biological markers of adrenergic function in patients with ME/CFS or FM compared to healthy controls at baseline were included. Meta‐analyses were performed using R statistical software.

Results

This meta‐analysis of 37 studies, encompassing 543 ME/CFS patients and 651 FM patients, compared with 747 and 447 healthy controls, respectively, revealed elevated adrenaline (SMD = .49 [.31–.67]; Z = 5.29, p < .01) and β1 adrenergic receptor expression (SMD = .79 [.06–1.52]; Z = 2.13; p = .03) in blood of ME/CFS patients at rest. Additionally, patients with ME/CFS had a greater increase in the expression of α2A adrenergic receptor (AR, SMD = .57 [.18–.97]; Z = 2.85, p < .01), β2 AR (SMD = .41 [.02–.81]; Z = 2.04; p = .04) and COMT (SMD = .42 [.03–.81]; Z = 2.11; p = .03) after exercise and an increased response of noradrenaline to an orthostatic test (SMD = .11 [−.47 to −.70]; Z = 2.10; p = .04), both found in blood. FM patients showed no significant differences at baseline but exhibited a diminished adrenaline response to exercise (SMD = −.79 [−1.27 to −.30]; Z = −3.14; p < .01).

Conclusion

This systematic review and meta‐analysis revealed adrenergic dysfunction mainly in patients with ME/CFS. Higher baseline adrenaline levels and atypical responses to exercise in ME/CFS indicate that sympathetic dysfunction, underscored by adrenergic abnormalities, is more involved in the pathophysiology of ME/CFS rather than FM.
Dual roles of terrestrial isopods in seed predation and seed dispersal in Phacellanthus tubiflorus (Orobancheaceae)
Authors: Suetsugu Kenji , Nakanishi Osamu
Published: September 2024

Terrestrial isopods are known to play significant roles in litter decomposition and seed predation. The present study examines the function of terrestrial isopods, particularly Armadillidium vulgare and Armadillidium nasatum, in the seed dispersal of a nonphotosynthetic plant, Phacellanthus tubiflorus. These isopods were observed ingesting seeds in the natural habitat of P. tubiflorus in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Contrary to the prevailing belief that invertebrates do not serve as effective internal seed dispersers, our analysis demonstrated that some seeds ingested by A. vulgare and A. nasatum were excreted whole, with viability rates comparable to those of seeds directly sourced from fruits. This indicates that these isopods could act not only as seed predators but also as seed dispersers. The research highlights the importance of further exploration into the ecological contributions of isopods and other invertebrates as seed dispersers.
Land subsidence in Iran: an omnipresent geohazard
Authors: Khairy Houshang , Sarfi Mehdi
Published: September 2024

As a result of several factors including overpopulation of the Earth and the ever‐expanding search for groundwater resources, land subsidence is slowly becoming a global challenge. In fact, a 2021 study of 41 countries around the globe demonstrated the severity of the problem. However, land subsidence in Iran is accompanied by other issues which further complicate the problem.
Influence of polypropylene fiber on the explosion resistance and fracture behavior of alumina–spinel castables
Authors: Wang Zhiqi , Li Yangzhe , Liu Wenjing , Liao Ning , Li Yawei , Nath Mithun , Yan Wen
Published: September 2024

Despite the successful preparation of high‐performance calcium aluminate cement‐bonded castables, occasional explosions have been reported. The occurrence of castable explosions is commonly attributed to water vapor overflow retarding and vapor pressure generated by rapid temperature rise. To enhance the explosion resistance of castables, methods such as incorporating various fibers (e.g., polypropylene [PP], polyethylene [ED], aramidic [Par], and steel fibers) have been proposed. However, limited studies have investigated the impact of fiber content on pore structure and fracture behavior of castables. This study aims to assess the influence of different PP fiber contents on comprehensive properties of castables. The explosion resistance was evaluated in conjunction with air permeability and pore structures, and fracture behavior was tested through wedge splitting tests at both room temperature and elevated temperatures. Results indicated that the addition of PP fibers significantly improves air permeability thus enhancing anti‐explosive capabilities. Simultaneously, the combustion of fibers resulted in the formation of residual pores, which contributed to an enhanced resistance against stress‐induced damage.
Toward green container liner shipping: joint optimization of heterogeneous fleet deployment, speed optimization, and fuel bunkering
Authors: Zhao Yuzhe , Peng Zhongxiu , Zhou Jingmiao , Notteboom Theo , Ma Yiji
Published: September 2024

Container liner shipping companies, under the international shipping carbon reduction indicators proposed by the International Maritime Organization, must transform two key aspects: technology and operations. This paper defines a green liner shipping problem (GLSP) that integrates the deployment of a heterogeneous fleet, speed determination, and fuel bunkering. The objective is to achieve low‐carbon operations in liner shipping, taking into consideration the diversification of power systems, the use of alternative fuels in ships, and the continuous improvement of alternative fuel bunkering systems. For this purpose, we present a bi‐objective mixed integer nonlinear programming model and develop two methodologies: an epsilon‐constraint approach and a heuristic‐based multi‐objective genetic algorithm. We validate the effectiveness of our model and methods through a case study involving container ships of various sizes deployed on intra‐Asian short sea routes by SITC International Holdings Co., Ltd. The experimental results highlight the crucial role of dual‐fuel (DF) ships in the pursuit of low‐carbon strategies by liner companies, with liquefied natural gas and ammonia DF ships being the most widely used. Additionally, fuel cell (FC) ships, particularly those powered by ammonia and hydrogen, demonstrate significant carbon reduction potential. Furthermore, ships with larger container capacities have a greater cost advantage. For the GLSP, speed determination is an auxiliary decision, and the lowest speed is not necessarily the optimal choice. Decision‐makers must carefully balance competing economic and carbon emission reduction objectives, as deploying more alternative fuel ships may increase fuel bunkering and fuel consumption, resulting in a higher total operating cost.
Effects of glucokinase haploinsufficiency on the pancreatic β‐cell mass and function of long‐term high‐fat, high‐sucrose diet‐fed mice
Authors: Shigesawa Ikumi , Nakamura Akinobu , Yamauchi Yuki , Kawata Shinichiro , Miyazaki Asuka , Nomoto Hiroshi , Kameda Hiraku , Terauchi Yasuo , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: September 2024

Aims/Introduction

We previously showed that glucokinase haploinsufficiency improves the glucose tolerance of db/db mice by preserving pancreatic β‐cell mass and function. In the present study, we aimed to determine the effects of glucokinase haploinsufficiency on the β‐cell mass and function of long‐term high‐fat, high‐sucrose (HFHS) diet‐fed mice.

Materials and Methods

Four‐week‐old male glucokinase haploinsufficient (Gck+/−) mice and 4‐week‐old male wild‐type (Gck+/+) mice (controls) were each divided into two groups: an HFHS diet‐fed group and a normal chow‐fed group, and the four groups were followed until 16, 40 or 60 weeks‐of‐age. Their glucose tolerance, glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion and β‐cell mass were evaluated. In addition, islets were isolated from 40‐week‐old mice, and the expression of key genes was compared.

Results

Gck+/−HFHS mice had smaller compensatory increases in β‐cell mass and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion than Gck+/+HFHS mice, and their glucose tolerance deteriorated from 16 to 40 weeks‐of‐age. However, their β‐cell mass and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion did not decrease between 40 and 60 weeks‐of‐age, but rather, tended to increase, and there was no progressive deterioration in glucose tolerance. The expression of Aldh1a3 in pancreatic islets, which is high in several models of diabetes and is associated with an impairment in β‐cell function, was high in Gck+/+HFHS mice, but not in Gck+/−HFHS mice.

Conclusions

Glucokinase haploinsufficiency prevents the progressive deterioration of pancreatic β‐cell mass/function and glucose tolerance in long‐term HFHS diet‐fed mice.
Deployment of professional expertise during a period of disruption: A phenomenological study of rehabilitation clinicians
Authors: Rochette Annie , Vermeulen Perrine , Dyer Joseph Omer , Hallé Marie‐Christine , Gingras Marjorie , Mingant Anne , Parisien Manon , Thomas Aliki
Published: September 2024

Rationale

Practice context is known to influence the deployment of competencies. The COVID‐19 pandemic created a major disruption in many practice contexts. The objective was to understand the lived experience of rehabilitation clinicians during a major disruption of their practice context, namely, the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

We used a longitudinal phenomenological design. Eligible clinicians were occupational therapists (OT), physical therapists (PT), physiotherapy technologists (Phys T.), speech‐language pathologists (S‐LP) and audiologists (AUD), working in the same rehabilitation workplace for at least 2 years before March 2020 (the pandemic). Clinicians who were reassigned to roles outside the field of rehabilitation were excluded. We conducted individual online interviews using a guide developed by the team with expertise and knowledge of the phenomenon. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was carried out. Results were discussed until the research team reached a consensus.

Results

A total of 32 clinicians participated in the study (12 OT, 5 PT, 5 Phys T., 7 S‐LP, 3 AUD), working with a variety of clienteles and work settings, for an average of 11.7 ± 7.6 years in the same practice setting. A wide range of emotions (e.g. anger, sadness, guilt, fear, pride) reflected clinicians' experience during disruption. Professional expertise was perceived as being enhanced by disruption as clinicians stepped out of their comfort zone; this encouraged reflective practice and a recognition of the need to be more explicit about their decision‐making process. Collaboration with colleagues was perceived as key for effective coping and deployment of adaptative expertise.

Conclusions

A disruption in the practice context may have positive effects on professional expertise through the mobilization of reflective practice.
Variance of deviation from optimal leverage
Authors: Caglayan Mustafa O. , Duarte Diogo , Lu Xiaomeng
Published: September 2024

We show that deviations from the firm's target leverage are priced in the cross‐section of stock returns and that the relation between these quantities is nonlinear. The concave nonlinear relation between deviation from the target leverage and next‐period return is strong during economic expansions and vanishes during recessions. Our portfolio analysis provides support for the concave relation between deviation from the target leverage and next‐period returns as well. We develop a factor named variance of deviation from optimal leverage (VDOL) and show that it is an important risk factor that has been omitted in the literature.
Comparative analysis of three jaw motion tracking systems: A study on precision and trueness
Authors: Zhao Wei , Feng Yue , Cao Rongkai , Sun Jiyu , Zhang Jiayao , Zhao Xinhuan , Liu Weicai
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the precision and trueness of three jaw motion tracking systems, the KaVo ARCUSdigma system, SDiMatriX system, and Modjaw system, in recording mandibular movements based on optical and ultrasonic principles.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐five healthy subjects were selected for the present study to measure protrosive movement and left and right lateral movements using the three jaw motion tracking systems. Each subject's mandibular movement was recorded twice with a 1‐week interval. Five parameters—sagittal condylar inclination (SCI) angle, incisal guide angle, Bennett angle, lateral condylar inclination angle, and Fischer's angle—were acquired for further analysis. The precision of the jaw motion tracking systems was evaluated by comparing the results of two measurements of the same parameter. Simultaneously, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was utilized during the initial data acquisition and was aligned with intercuspal position (ICP) and edge‐to‐edge occlusion intraoral scan data. Bone landmarks were used to calculate bilateral SCI as a reference for comparison with the SCI values from each jaw motion tracking system. An independent‐sample t‐test was conducted to compare parameter differences, with statistical significance set at a p‐value below 0.05.

Results

There were no significant differences among the three jaw motion tracking systems regarding the corrected values of SCI, incisal guide angle, Bennett angle, lateral condylar inclination angle, and Fischer's angle during the 1‐week interval (p > 0.05). The values of bilateral SCI obtained by CBCT were 48.57 ± 6.74 (L) and 48.35 ± 5.28 (R), respectively. No significant differences were found between the reference SCI and those parameters measured by the KaVo ARCUSdigma system and the Modjaw system (p > 0.05), while the results obtained from the SDiMatriX system indicated a significant difference compared to the reference SCI (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The three jaw motion tracking systems exhibited favorable results in terms of precision. Regarding trueness, both the KaVo ARCUSdigma system and the Modjaw system demonstrated a satisfactory levels suitable for applications in digital prosthodontics within clinical settings. However, further refinement is needed to enhance the trueness of the SDiMatriX system.
Do all individuals benefit equally from non‐surgical periodontal therapy? Secondary analyses of systematic review data
Authors: Raittio Eero , Leite Fabio R. M. , Machado Vanessa , Botelho João , Nascimento Gustavo G.
Published: September 2024

Aims

This study aimed to assess the variability and treatment effect heterogeneity in response to non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

Methods

Data from randomized controlled trials included in two recent systematic reviews on the effect of NSPT on mean clinical attachment loss (CAL), mean probing pocket depth (PPD), percentage of sites with bleeding on probing (%BOP), PPD ≤3 mm (%PD ≤3 mm), and C‐reactive protein levels (CRP) at 3–12‐month follow‐up among adults with systemic diseases or conditions were used. In these trials, the control arms received no treatment, hygiene advice, or supragingival scaling. The Bayesian meta‐regression models were utilized to assess the variability ratios between NSPT and control groups.

Results

Data from 36 trials on mean PPD, 32 trials on mean CAL, eight trials on %PD ≤3 mm, 31 trials on %BOP and 19 trials on CRP were used. Variability in mean CAL and CRP was approximately 10% higher in the NSPT arms than in the control arms, hinting that there may be room for treatment effect heterogeneity. Instead, variability in mean PPD, %BOP, and %PD ≤3 mm was lower in the NSPT arms than in the control arms.

Conclusion

Potential treatment effect heterogeneity in response to NSPT was observed for CRP and mean CAL. However, substantial measurement error in CAL and natural variation in CRP may contribute to these findings. Conversely, treatment effect heterogeneity appears less pronounced for mean PPD, %BOP, and %PD ≤3 mm, potentially due to greater treatment effects in patients with more severe periodontitis and reduced measurement error in these parameters.
Growth Rate in Cultured Crustose Coralline Algae of the Genus Phymatolithon and Sporolithon From Taiwan
Authors: Lai Chiao‐Feng , Nazir Aafaq , Liu Tzu‐Yen , Tseng Yung‐Che , Iizuka Yoshiyuki , Shiao Jen‐Chieh
Published: September 2024

Coastal algal reef ecosystems, which are formed by the skeletal carbonate of crustose coralline algae (CCA), provide vital habitats for a diverse range of marine organisms and serve as valuable archives of long‐term environmental data. Despite the importance of these reef ecosystems, there is currently a lack of available information regarding the accretion rates of CCA in subtropical intertidal zones in the Taoyuan algal reef. We measured the vertical accretion and horizontal growth of CCA cultured in two aquaculture tanks over a 9‐month period. The vertical accretion and horizontal growth rate of CCA was approximately 0.29–0.43 and 5.5 μm·day−1 (the extrapolated annual value is equivalent to 0.11–0.16 and 2.0 mm·year−1, respectively). Newly colonized CCA had faster horizontal growth of approximately 110 μm·day−1 (equivalent to 40.2 mm·year−1). These results highlight the slow and gradual process of algal reef ecosystem formation in the subtropical intertidal zones. The CCA had a faster lateral growth rate as seen in the newly settled CCA. These findings contribute to our understanding of the overall growth dynamics of CCA.
Editorial comment on “Six‐year trend of subsequent allergic diseases following Kawasaki disease and its clinical implications: A population‐based matched cohort study of 34,712 patients”
Authors: Kostara Maria , Otal‐Buesa Maria , Leung Agnes S. Y. , Eigenmann Philippe
Published: September 2024

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Enterprise information and communications technology software pricing and developer productivity measurement
Authors: Fleming Martin
Published: September 2024

The 1999 addition of business sector software and services spending to the National Income and Product Accounts was an important innovation, achieving a novel focus on the measurement of intangible asset investment. Over the intervening years, enterprise information and communication technology (ICT) has fundamentally changed. The transformation has raised questions about the extent of the decline of ICT function software prices. As a software producing sector, the business sector ICT function now has a much wider array of production factor choices. In addition, labor and multifactor software development productivity, an important sources of value creation, varies widely from year to year. With the use of a two‐sector model and a standard growth accounting framework, a business sector ICT function shadow price is estimated, finding that software price declines have been underestimated by 4.4 percentage points (ppt) over 2015 to 2021. The impact on GDP growth is a 0.1 ppt underestimate. Correcting the underestimate increases software spending from 19.6% to 24.7% of nonresidential fixed investment, and from 47.4% to 59.9% of real intellectual property product spending.
Firing properties of single axons with cardiac rhythmicity in the human cervical vagus nerve
Authors: Farmer David G. S. , Patros Mikaela , Ottaviani Matteo M. , Dawood Tye , Kumric Marko , Bozic Josko , Badour Matt I. , Bain Anthony R. , Barak Otto F. , Dujic Zeljko , Macefield Vaughan G.
Published: September 2024

Microneurographic recordings of the human cervical vagus nerve have revealed the presence of multi‐unit neural activity with measurable cardiac rhythmicity. This suggests that the physiology of vagal neurones with cardiovascular regulatory function can be studied using this method. Here, the activity of cardiac rhythmic single units was discriminated from human cervical vagus nerve recordings using template‐based waveform matching. The activity of 44 cardiac rhythmic neurones (22 with myelinated axons and 22 with unmyelinated axons) was isolated. By consideration of each unit's firing pattern with respect to the cardiac and respiratory cycles, the functional identification of each unit was attempted. Of note is the observation of seven cardiac rhythmic neurones with myelinated axons whose activity was recruited or enhanced by slow, deep breathing, was maximal during the nadir of respiratory sinus arrhythmia, and showed an expiratory peak. This is characteristic of cardioinhibitory efferent neurones, which are responsible for respiratory sinus arrhythmia. The remaining 15 cardiac rhythmic neurones with myelinated axons were categorised as cardiopulmonary receptors or arterial baroreceptors based on the position of their peak in firing with respect to the R‐wave of the cardiac cycle. This latter method is not viable for neurones with unmyelinated axons due to their slow and unknown conduction velocities. With the exception of three neurones whose expiratory modulation implicates them as cardiac‐projecting efferent neurones, this population is likely dominated by arterial baroreceptors. In conclusion, the activity of single units with cardiovascular function has been discriminated within the human cervical vagus, enabling their systematic study.

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Key points

Recordings of the electrical activity of the vagus nerve have recently been made at the level of the neck in humans.

Examination of the gross activity of this nerve reveals subpopulations of neurones whose activity fluctuates in time with the heart's beat, suggesting that the neurones that monitor or modify cardiac function can be studied using this method.

Here, the activity of individual cardiac rhythmic neurones was isolated from human vagus nerve recordings using template‐based spike sorting. The relationship between this activity and the cardiac and respiratory cycles was used as a means of classifying each neurone.

Neuronal firing patterns that are consistent with that of neurones that modify cardiac function, including heart‐slowing ‘cardioinhibitory’ neurones, as well as neurones that inform the brain of cardiovascular status were observed.

This approach enables, for the first time, the systematic study of the function of these neurones in humans in both health and disease.
Emociones, translocalidad y comunes. Retos para la investigación sobre culturas populares en América Latina
Authors: Díaz Vargas Brenda , Hernández Salgar Óscar
Published: September 2024

El artículo tiene como propósito hacer una aproximación crítica a los retos que presentaactualmente el estudio de las culturas populares en América Latina. Para ello, se exploranalgunos de los problemas que llevaron a que este objeto de estudio ocupara un lugarsecundario frente a los estudios de subalternidad, dejando en un punto ciego la comprensiónacadémica de dinámicas que están determinando algunas de las grandes coyunturas socialesde América Latina. Posteriormente se explica la importancia de abordar la producción de locomún en la cultura, especialmente a través de los significados y las emociones colectivas,con el fin de entender cómo lo popular transita entre diferentes órdenes global-local-virtual-presencial. Por último, se propone una ampliación de la noción de translocalidad, así como eluso de la noción de mundos de sentido para estudiar la producción de significados yemociones comunes de forma intermedial y multimodal.
Ouvidorias comunitárias: uma proposta de abordagem para a gestão territorial sob a perspectiva da nova agenda urbana e o direito à cidade Santa Cruz do Sul-RS
Authors: Riss da Silva Paulo Jorge
Published: September 2024

O artigo apresenta uma análise sintética das características da segregação socioespacial na cidade de Santa Cruz do Sul e seu Plano Diretor em relação ao expresso na ‘Nova Agenda Urbana’ – ONU/ Habitat III. Sob esta perspectiva é apresentado uma proposta de diretrizes para nova abordagem para compreensão do território que englobe a espacialização de dados quali-quantitativos do espaço urbano com vistas a subsidiar políticas públicas com ênfase nos resultados encontrados através de um processo de inclusão social, fomentando redes de troca locais e o empoderamento dos cidadãos em uma estratégia de organização e funcionamento que envolva o poder público, as entidades civis e de classe, a academia e comunidades locais de maneira equânime na compreensão e proposição de ações com foco na inclusão participativa e democrática dos cidadãos e ao Direito à Cidade enquanto alternativa paradigmática para mitigar os impactos da fragmentação territorial na cidade – as Ouvidorias Comunitárias.
Mitos de la violación, valores y honor en estudiantes brasileños de derecho
Authors: Scarpati Arielle Sagrillo , Guerra Valeschka Martins , Bonfim Camila Nogueira
Published: September 2024

ste estudio tuvo como objetivo predecir la aceptación de mitos de violación por parte de los estudiantes de derecho, utilizando la importancia relativa que asignaron a diferentes subfunciones de los valores humanos, así como sus preocupaciones de honor. Además, estábamos interesadas en analizar cómo estas creencias podrían influir en sus decisiones futuras como profesionales de la ley. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 281 estudiantes universitarios de derecho (mujeres = 57.6 %), con una edad media de 23.6 (DE = 3.78) años. Los encuestados respondieron la Escala de Aceptación de Mitos de Violación de Illinois (IRMA), la Escala de Honor (HS-16), el Cuestionario de Valores Básicos (BVS) y las preguntas sociodemográficas. Los resultados indicaron una correlación negativa entre los mitos de la violación, las preocupaciones de integridad, las subfunciones suprapersonales y de la existencia de los valores.
Boosting Engineering Optimization With a Novel Recursive Transfer Bifidelity Surrogate Modeling
Authors: Song Xueguan , Zhang Shuai , Pang Yong , Li Jianji , Zhang Jiankang
Published: September 2024

In the engineering optimization, there often exist the multiple sources of information with different fidelity levels. In general, low-fidelity (LF) information is usually more accessible than high-fidelity (HF) information, while the latter is usually more accurate than the former. Thus, to capitalize on the advantages of this information, this study proposes a novel recursive transfer bifidelity surrogate modeling to fuse information from HF and LF levels. First, the selection method of optimal scale factor is proposed for constructing bifidelity surrogate model. Then, a recursive method is developed to further improve its performance. The efficacy of the proposed model is comprehensively evaluated using numerical problems and an engineering example. Comparative analysis with some surrogate models (five multifidelity and a single-fidelity surrogate models) demonstrates the superior prediction accuracy and robustness of the proposed model. Additionally, the impact of varying cost ratios and combinations of HF and LF samples on the performance of the proposed model is also investigated, yielding consistent results. Overall, the proposed model has superior performance and holds potential for practical applications in engineering design optimization problems.
Inorganic interpretation of luminescent materials encountered by the Perseverance rover on Mars
Authors: Scheller Eva L. , Bosak Tanja , McCubbin Francis M. , Williford Kenneth , Siljeström Sandra , Jakubek Ryan S. , Eckley Scott A. , Morris Richard V. , Bykov Sergei V. , Kizovski Tanya , Asher Sanford , Berger Eve , Bower Dina M. , Cardarelli Emily L. , Ehlmann Bethany L. , Fornaro Teresa , Fox Allison , Haney Nikole , Hand Kevin , Roppel Ryan , Sharma Sunanda , Steele Andrew , Uckert Kyle , Yanchilina Anastasia G. , Beyssac Olivier , Farley Kenneth A. , Henneke Jesper , Heirwegh Chris , Pedersen David A. K. , Liu Yang , Schmidt Mariek E. , Sephton Mark , Shuster David , Weiss Benjamin P.
Published: September 2024

A major objective of the Mars 2020 mission is to sample rocks in Jezero crater that may preserve organic matter for later return to Earth. Using an ultraviolet Raman and luminescence spectrometer, the Perseverance rover detected luminescence signals with maximal intensities at 330 to 350 nanometers and 270 to 290 nanometers that were initially reported as consistent with organics. Here, we test the alternative hypothesis that the 330- to 350-nanometer and 270- to 290-nanometer luminescence signals trace Ce
3+
in phosphate and silicate defects, respectively. By comparing the distributions of luminescence signals with the rover detections of x-ray fluorescence from P
2
O
5
and Si-bearing materials, we show that, while an organic origin is not excluded, the observed luminescence can be explained by purely inorganic materials. These findings highlight the importance of eventual laboratory analyses to detect and characterize organic compounds in the returned samples.