bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super heavy dark matter from inflationary Schwinger production
Authors: Bastero-Gil Mar , Ferraz Paulo B. , Ubaldi Lorenzo , Vega-Morales Roberto
Published: November 2024

We consider a simple setup with a dark sector containing dark electrons charged under an Abelian U(1)D gauge symmetry. We show that, if the massless dark photon associated to the U(1)D is produced during inflation in such a way as to form a classical dark electric field, then dark electron-positron pairs are also produced close to the end of inflation via the Schwinger effect even if they are very massive. For large enough dark electric force, dark electrons with masses larger than the Hubble scale can be produced which are nonrelativistic at production and throughout their cosmic evolution. They can account for the dark matter abundance today for masses in the range ∼100  GeV to 1017  GeV and up to 6 orders of magnitude larger than the Hubble scale at the end of inflation where purely gravitational production is exponentially suppressed. We examine the regime where the dark electrons do not thermalize with the dark photons throughout their cosmic history and assume negligible kinetic mixing with the visible U(1) so they remain decoupled from the Standard Model thermal bath as well. Thus, the final dark matter relic abundance is determined only by the initial inflationary Schwinger production and redshifting after reheating.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Is curvature-assisted quintessence observationally viable?
Authors: Alestas George , Delgado Matilda , Ruiz Ignacio , Akrami Yashar , Montero Miguel , Nesseris Savvas
Published: November 2024

Single-field models of accelerated expansion with nearly flat potentials, despite being able to provide observationally viable explanations for the early-time cosmic inflation and the late-time cosmic acceleration, are in strong tension with string theory evidence and the associated de Sitter swampland constraints. It has recently been argued that in an open universe, where the spatial curvature is negative (i.e., with Ωk>0), a new stable fixed point arises, which may lead to viable single-field-based accelerated expansion with an arbitrarily steep potential. Here, we show, through a dynamical systems analysis and a Bayesian statistical inference of cosmological parameters, that the additional cosmological solutions based on the new fixed point do not render steep-potential, single-field, accelerated expansion observationally viable. We mainly focus on quintessence models of dark energy, but we also argue that a similar conclusion can be drawn for cosmic inflation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Evaluation of impact of lean management practices on dairy business performance
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad Sohail , Lodhi Rab Nawaz , Malik Zobia
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This research was initiated by motivation from a real business problem that delves into lean management practices in dairy farm operations. It investigates how lean management practices can be applied as an improvement strategy in the dairy business to evaluate its impact on performance, where profitability is a decisive factor.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the qualitative design, a 5-phase action research methodology was used in this study, where multiple data collection sources were used, including focus group discussions, on-site observation or Gemba walks and process mapping. The impact is evaluated by comparing the key performance measures with the same period before and after research.

Findings

The research revealed that lean management practices can significantly improve dairy business performance. It explained vital aspects of lean management practices and their sequence with examples of first-hand applications. It explained, how lean management practices were applied in dairy farm operations. Furthermore, the research resulted in significant benefits, in terms of quality, cost and profitability.

Practical implications

This research was conducted in a real business setting in the field environment, to improve dairy business performance. It was a distinctive application of lean management practices to solve a national problem. This could be used as a road map to bring continuous improvement at the national level to improve the performance of food value chains.

Originality/value

This research is unique because it addresses the methodological, population and empirical gaps in dairy farm operations. It adds value to the existing knowledge base by sharing best practices, developed and implemented for the first time to the best of our knowledge, like high-level process mapping and performance measures at different levels. Furthermore, the solutions can be simulated in related farm operations to bring breakthrough improvements in dairy business performance.
Quality of work life and turnover intention among auditors: evidence from Morocco
Authors: Berguig Oumaima , El Badlaoui Amine
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to model the relationship between quality of work life factors and turnover intention for auditors in Morocco.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed research model gleaned from the literature is empirically tested using a structured questionnaire completed by 60 auditors working for Moroccan audit firms.

Findings

Tests results of partial least squares structural equation modelling provide evidence that “compensation and benefits” and “colleague support” have a significant negative impact on turnover intention while the “work–life balance,” “organizational prestige” and “workload pressure” are not predictive of turnover intention. Taken together, these results show that auditors are already aware of the work pressure they are under, and that adequate compensation and benefits and support from colleagues can alleviate and compensate this pressure.

Originality/value

This study adopted a non-previously tested research model, including quality of work life factors directly related to the auditing profession and their impact on turnover intention, examined in Morocco, which may provide new evidence to contemporary research conducted in developing countries with similar characteristics to the Moroccan auditing market.
Application and practice of LILCEO sintering proportion optimization algorithm in sintering plant
Authors: Yi Lingzhi , Ren Kai , Wang Yahui , He Wei , Zhang Hui , Li Zongping
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To ensure the stable operation of ironmaking process and the quality and output of sinter, the multi-objective optimization of sintering machine batching process was carried out.

Design/methodology/approach

The purpose of this study is to establish a multi-objective optimization model with iron taste content and batch cost as targets, constrained by field process requirements and sinter quality standards, and to propose an improved balance optimizer algorithm (LILCEO) based on a lens imaging anti-learning mechanism and a population redundancy error correction mechanism. In this method, the lens imaging inverse learning strategy is introduced to initialize the population, improve the population diversity in the early iteration period, avoid falling into local optimal in the late iteration period and improve the population redundancy error correction mechanism to accelerate the convergence rate in the early iteration period.

Findings

By selecting nine standard test functions of BT series for simulation experiments, and comparing with NSGA-?, MOEAD, EO, LMOCSO, NMPSO and other mainstream optimization algorithms, the experimental results verify the superior performance of the improved algorithm. The results show that the algorithm can effectively reduce the cost of sintering ingredients while ensuring the iron taste of sinter, which is of great significance for the comprehensive utilization and quality assurance of sinter iron ore resources.

Originality/value

An optimization model with dual objectives of TFe content and raw material cost was developed taking into account the chemical composition and quality indicators required by the blast furnace as well as factors such as raw material inventory and cost constraints. This model was used to adjust and optimize the sintering raw material ratio. Addressing the limitations of existing optimization algorithms for sintering raw materials including low convergence accuracy slow speed limited initial solution production and difficulty in practical application we proposed the LILCEO algorithm. Comparative tests with NSGA-III MOEAD EO LMOCSO and NMPSO algorithms demonstrated the superiority of the proposed algorithm. Practical applications showed that the proposed method effectively overcomes many limitations of the current manual raw material ratio model providing scientific and stable decision-making guidance for sintering production operations.
Addressing social and health needs in health care: Characterizing case managers' work to address patient‐defined goals
Authors: Brewster Amanda L. , Hernandez Elizabeth , Knox Margae , Rubio Karl , Sachdeva Ishika
Published: November 2024

Objective

To test quantitative process measures characterizing the work of social needs case managers as they assisted patients with diverse health‐related needs—spanning both medical and social domains.

Study Setting and Design

The study analyzed secondary data on 7076 patients working with 147 case managers from the CommunityConnect social needs case management program in Contra Costa County, California from 2018 to 2021. The service—designed to be holistic with a focus on social determinants as root causes of health issues—helped patients navigate social services, health care, and mental health care.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

We used cross‐sectional analyses to quantitatively characterize electronic health records (EHRs) derived measures of case management intensity (goal updates), duration (days goal was open), and outcomes for 19 different categories of health and social goals. Mixed‐effects regression models were used to examine how work process measures varied according to goal categories. Models nested goals within patients within case managers and adjusted for patient‐level covariates.

Principal Findings

The most common goals were dental care (53%), food (40%), and housing (39%). In adjusted analyses, housing goals had significantly more case manager updates than any other type of goal with a marginal mean of 14.0 updates (95% CI: 13.4–14.7), were worked on for significantly longer (marginal mean of 417 days, 95% CI: 360–474) than any goal except dental care, and were least likely to be resolved. Utilities, insurance, and medication coordination goals were most likely to be resolved.

Conclusions

Case managers and patients repeatedly worked on goals over many months. Meeting housing needs and accessing dental care were issues that were not easily resolved and required extensive follow‐up. One‐time referral interventions may need follow‐up systems to meaningfully support social and health needs.
‘He made it his rule never to grant licenses to married women’: Gender, licensing and the law in nineteenth‐century New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand
Authors: Bishop Catherine , Hoskin Nichole
Published: November 2024

This article considers hotel licensing and gender across New Zealand, New South Wales and Victoria in the long nineteenth century, creating timelines of legislative changes and exploring the impact of business regulation and its implementation on women. It exposes a disconnect between law and licensing court practices, indicative of the ways entrenched understandings of gendered behaviours and local conditions affected women in business. It demonstrates that women's rights as publicans went backwards in New Zealand and New South Wales, just as other rights were expanding. It explores Victorian exceptionalism, Victoria legalising female licensees when others did not.
Who uses abusive supervision to punish deviant employees? An integration of identity threat and self‐regulation perspectives
Authors: Sheng Zitong , Fiscus Justine , He Yimin , Xu Xiaohong , Yao Xiang
Published: November 2024

Subordinates' counterproductive work behaviors (CWBs) have been demonstrated as a critical precursor to their supervisors' abusive supervision. However, prior research has mainly taken a victim precipitation paradigm and focused on exploring subordinate characteristics that may diminish or amplify this relationship. The important role of supervisor characteristics has been rather overlooked. Integrating self‐regulation and identity threat theories, the current study extends the prior literature by focusing on supervisor characteristics, specifically, supervisors' sleep quantity, sleep quality, and narcissism, as moderators of the relationship between subordinates' CWB and supervisors' abusive supervision. The study utilized a time‐lagged design with a sample of 292 employees and 50 supervisors at a Chinese hospital. Results showed that subordinates' CWB at Time 1 was positively related to their supervisors' abusive supervision at Time 2. Supervisors' sleep quality was found to mitigate the relationship between subordinates' CWB and supervisors' abusive supervision; however, the moderating effect of supervisors' sleep quantity was not significant. Moreover, supervisors' narcissism exacerbated the relationship between subordinates' CWB and supervisors' abusive supervision. This study contributes to the abusive supervision literature by shifting away from the victim precipitation paradigm and placing supervisors, those in positions of power, at the forefront. Findings from the study provide insights into the design and implementation of supervisor training aimed at mitigating abusive behaviors in the workplace.
Environmental Ethics Unveiled: Navigating the Nexus Between Government Divestiture and Environmental Investment
Authors: Khan Farman Ullah , Ullah Sajid , Rauf Fawad , Zhang Junrui , Harangus Daniela
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of government divestiture on corporate environmental investment (EI) and investigates how regional development moderates this relationship. Using a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2012 to 2022, we employ a fixed‐effect model to analyze the data. Our findings reveal a negative effect of government divestiture on EI. Furthermore, we observe that regional development mitigates this negative impact, indicating that firms operating in developed environments are more inclined to prioritize environmental concerns, likely due to increased stakeholder monitoring. To address concerns regarding endogeneity, we utilize propensity score matching (PSM), Heckman tests, and the generalized method of moments (GMM). Overall, our results carry significant policy implications, particularly regarding the environmental consequences of privatization in emerging markets like China.
Registered report: Cognitive ability, but not cognitive reflection, predicts expressing greater political animosity and favouritism
Authors: Cassario Abigail L. , Vallabha Shree , Thompson Jordan L. , Carrillo Alejandro , Solanki Prachi , Gnall Samantha A. , Rice Sada , Wetherell Geoffrey A. , Brandt Mark J.
Published: November 2024

Liberals and conservatives both express political animosity and favouritism. However, less is known about whether the same or different factors contribute to this phenomenon among liberals and conservatives. We test three different relationships that could emerge among cognitive ability, cognitive reflection and political group‐based attitudes. Analysing two nationally representative surveys of US Americans (N = 9035) containing a measure of cognitive ability, we find evidence that compared to people lower in cognitive ability, people higher in cognitive ability express more animosity towards ideologically discordant groups and more favouritism towards ideologically concordant groups. This pattern was particularly pronounced among liberals. In a registered report study, we then test whether the same is true of cognitive reflection in another large dataset (N = 3498). In contrast to cognitive ability, we find no relationship between cognitive reflection, political animosity and favouritism. Together, these studies provide a comprehensive test of how cognitive ability and cognitive reflection are related to political animosity and favouritism for liberals and conservatives in the United States.
Clinico‐sero‐pathological characteristics of anti‐Ha antisynthetase syndrome
Authors: Zhao Bing , Hou Ying , Shao Kai , Ma XiaoTian , Yan YaPing , Lu Jian‐Qiang , Li Wei , Yan ChuanZhu , Zhang LiNing , Dai TingJun
Published: November 2024

To define the clinical, serological, and muscle histopathological characteristics, as well as treatment outcomes, of patients with anti‐Ha antibody. We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical, serological, and pathological data and long‐term treatment outcomes of anti‐Ha patients between January 2005 and July 2023 at our center. Anti‐Ha antibody was identified by immunoblot and reconfirmed by immunoprecipitation. Of the 570 patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, 17 (3.0%) were found to be anti‐Ha positive, of whom 5 (29.4%) were also positive for another myositis‐specific antibody (MSA). All patients with anti‐Ha antibody as the single MSA (12/17, 70.6%) had clinical and histopathological evidence of muscle damage. Skin lesions were identified in nine of them (75%), while both interstitial lung disease and Raynaud's phenomenon were only seen in four patients. A necrotizing myopathy without a perifascicular pattern was the most common pathological manifestation (50%). Perifascicular necrosis (PFN) and myofiber major histocompatibility complex class‐II expression were observed only in one and four patients, respectively. Muscle weakness relapse was reported in five patients, and skin rashes worsening were observed in one patient. Most of the anti‐Ha patients (66.7%) finally achieved a favorable outcome at last follow‐up. Anti‐Ha antibody might not be as rare as previously thought and may coexist with other MSAs. Muscle damage is the most common manifestation in anti‐Ha patients, while extra‐muscular symptoms except for the cutaneous manifestations are unusual. The histopathological features varied with a predominance of necrotizing myopathy without PFN. These patients often finally had favorable outcomes, although relapses often occur.
Lessons from a Rubik's Cube to solve the biodiversity crisis
Authors: Sequeira Ana M. M. , Techera Erika J. E.
Published: November 2024

Global biodiversity is facing unprecedented pressures, calling into question the effectiveness of existing governance systems aimed at halting extinctions. Renewed hope arose with the recent Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15 December 2022) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (COP19 November 2022). Yet, barriers remain that hamper biodiversity conservation. Identifying and overcoming these barriers is crucial for success. We considered previous lessons learned to show that current barriers to conservation are centered on a multidimensional array of mismatches among legal (law), ecological (science), and sociocultural (human) dimensions across the short, medium, and long term. Focusing on highly migratory marine megafauna (whales, sharks, and turtles), we used the Rubik's cube as a metaphor to conceptualize the multidimensional mismatches and devised a pathway for solutions that is highly dependent on strict alignment across all dimensions. We recommend the continuous cycling across all dimension interfaces to align the use (and update) of regulations and processes in law, improve data and experimentation methods in science, and develop education and engagement actions in the human dimension. This timely alignment across all dimensions is key to achieving biodiversity targets and avoiding further extinctions.
The Impact of Statin Intensity on the Early Progression of Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy
Authors: Huang Xinyi , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Colombo Paolo C. , Choe Jason , Shertel Tara , Jennings Douglas L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Limited research has compared the relative risks and benefits different statins have after heart transplantation (HT).

Method

We hypothesize that higher statin intensity is associated with a smaller degree of allograft intimal thickening on intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) at 1‐year post‐HT. Allograft intima‐media thickness (IMT) on the first annual IVUS was retrospectively compared in patients initiated on a low‐intensity statin (pravastatin 20 mg daily) versus moderate‐intensity statin (atorvastatin 20 mg daily) post‐HT.

Results

A total of 172 adult patients were included (2018–2022, n = 86 in each group). At 1 year, the maximal IMT was lower in the moderate‐intensity statin group, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. The LDL levels at 1 year trended lower with moderate‐intensity statin therapy, while the rates of adverse reactions were not statistically different. A multivariate analysis of the logistic regression model showed moderate statin intensity at 12 months was protective, while donor‐specific antibodies developed within the first‐year posttransplant were associated with IMT ≥ 0.5 mm on the first annual IVUS.

Conclusion

This study found that using moderate‐intensity statin to prevent the early progression was as safe and possibly more effective than low‐intensity statin therapy for the prevention of early cardiac allograft vasculopathy.
A Novel 2D Echo View to Determine Right Ventricular Lead Position on the Tricuspid Valve Level
Authors: Zach Veronika , Lacour Philipp , Alasfar Lina , Chitroceanu Alexandra Maria , da Conceicao Cristina Rozados , Morris Daniel Armando , Dreger Henryk , Blaschke Florian , Schneider‐Reigbert Matthias
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Recently, a subcostal en‐face view of the tricuspid valve (TV) was described which can determine right ventricular (RV) lead position on the TV level. We sought to (1) prospectively evaluate the feasibility of this novel view in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) to visualize the position of the device lead relative to the TV leaflets and (2) study the association between lead position and degree of tricuspid regurgitation (TR).

Methods

Consecutive patients with a history of CIED implantation with at least one RV lead who underwent echocardiography for any cause at our tertiary center were included in this prospective observational study. A subcostal 2D en‐face view of the TV was obtained and the position of the RV lead in the TV plane was determined whenever feasible.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included, 70% were male, the median age was 74 years. The exact RV lead position in respect to the TV plane could be determined in 112/176 patients (64%) via the proposed view. In 37 patients (21%) moderate TR could be found, while 10 patients (6%) presented with severe TR. The lead position was not associated with the degree of TR.

Conclusion

A novel 2D en‐face view of the TV can accurately identify the RV lead position in the TV plane. At least moderate TR was present in 27% of patients with CIED. There was no association of lead position with the occurrence of moderate or more TR.
Measuring the evolution of n‐dimensional environmental niches
Authors: Sharma Shubhi , Winner Kevin , Mäkinen Jussi , Jetz Walter
Published: November 2024

The study of species' environmental niches underpins numerous questions in ecology and evolution and has increasing relevance in a rapidly changing world. Environmental niches, characterized by observations of organisms, inform about a species' specialization in multivariate environment space and help assess their exposure and sensitivity to changing conditions. Environmental niches are also the central concept behind species distribution models (SDMs), which quantify and predict the geographic variation in environmental suitability. Despite the clear role of past evolutionary processes in shaping contemporary biodiversity distribution, the assessment of multivariate or n‐dimensional (where n is the number of environmental axes) niches in a phylogenetic framework has remained limited and constrained by restrictive assumptions. This hampers important existing and emerging applications, such as assessments of niche conservatism, estimates of species' adaptive potential under changing climates, and prediction of niches in less‐studied parts of the tree of life. Here, we introduce a framework that extends SDMs to estimate n‐dimensional environmental niches jointly with underlying evolutionary processes. Specifically, we fit the relationship between niche similarity and phylogenetic distance as a latent Gaussian process across all species in a clade. We demonstrate mathematically how the parameters of the Gaussian process can be linked to existing traditional evolutionary models. Simulations indicate that the approach successfully recovers niche and evolutionary parameters. Applied to two clades of hummingbirds, the presented joint framework uncovers the relationships among species' niches in phylogenetic space and supports the quantification and hypothesis testing of niche evolution. A key advantage of the presented framework is its joint estimation of the evolutionary process alongside niches directly from species observations with uncertainty propagated to evolutionary model parameters. The proposed approach has the potential to increase the robustness of inference about niche evolution and improve understanding of how the processes of niche formation and evolution interact.
Too naïve to NAV? Performance display and capital misallocation
Authors: Ren Honglin , Zhao Haibei
Published: November 2024

We find that mutual fund flows respond to price returns (changes in net asset value per share or NAV returns) that are widely displayed in practice, whereas total fund returns include both price returns and fund distributions. NAV return‐chasing is not driven by tax considerations or alternative performance and risk metrics and leads to suboptimal investment performance. Additionally, NAV return‐chasing generates price pressure on funds’ stock holdings. These findings suggest that more prevalent displays of total investment returns could improve investor decision‐making, especially for less sophisticated investors.
What Is the Future of the Atlantic Surfclam (Spisula solidissima) Fishery Under Climate‐Induced Warming on the Mid‐Atlantic Bight Continental Shelf: A Multidecadal Assessment
Authors: Spencer Molly M. , Powell Eric N. , Klinck John M. , Munroe Daphne M. , Borsetti Sarah , Scheld Andrew M. , Hofmann Eileen E. , Curchitser Enrique
Published: November 2024

The Atlantic surfclam, Spisula solidissima supports a lucrative commercial fishery in the Mid‐Atlantic Bight (MAB) worth roughly $30 million in revenue per year. Rapid climate change is expected to modify the geographic range of the Atlantic surfclam, with consequences for the surfclam fishery. This study evaluated fishery‐based indicators projected from 2020 through 2095 based on anticipated changes in the geographic range and biomass of the Atlantic surfclam, using a Spatially Explicit, agent‐based Fisheries and Economics Simulator (SEFES). Simulations generally showed a positive trend in Atlantic surfclam biomass throughout the next three‐quarters of the 21st century as the clam's range continues to shift offshore and northward along the continental shelf. A general decrease in fishing mortality rate is projected given the present fleet capacity, with a simultaneous increase in catch and landings per unit effort (LPUE), signaling future potential growth in the surfclam fishery. Regionally, forecasts show biomass expanding into deeper waters particularly off New Jersey, Long Island, and southern New England starting in the early 2050s, whereas populations on Georges Bank and off Delmarva gradually decline. Trends in time spent fishing, catch, and LPUE parallel those of biomass in each region. These results can inform managers and business interests that rely on this fishery, as well as other users of the continental shelf, to provide a basis for the development of anticipatory management for the socio‐ecological and economic impacts that may result from future changes in the Atlantic surfclam range and carrying capacity consequent of climate change.
‘Temples Devoted to Cold Coffee and Hot Sex’: Coffee Bars and Youth Culture in Postwar Britain
Authors: Ellis Catherine
Published: November 2024

This article explores contemporary and scholarly perspectives on coffee bars in Britain in the 1950s and 1960s, with a particular focus on themes in the modern history of youth. In the immediate postwar decades, young people in Britain were described as simultaneously angry and apathetic, active troublemakers and passive consumers. Young people's use and abuse of leisure time often grounded these contradictory typologies, and coffee bars attracted particular concern. The consumption of coffee was not new in Britain, but this article focuses on heightened anxieties about the association of coffee bars with unsupervised teen sociability, foreign cultures, the ‘Americanization’ of British culture, and the erosion of ‘community’ after Second World War. A closer examination of coffee bars demonstrates both their significance in contemporary debates about young people and their many connections to recent historical analysis of youth in the postwar period.
Potential predisposing features of external cervical resorption: An observational study
Authors: Patel Shanon , Abella Francesc , Patel Kreena , Bakhsh AbdulAziz , Lambrechts Paul , Al‐Nuaimi Nassr
Published: November 2024

Aim

To assess the occurrence of external cervical resorption (ECR) in relation to patient characteristics and potential predisposing factors.

Methodology

In total, 215 ECR lesions (194 patients) referred to the Endodontic postgraduate Unit at King's College London or Specialist Endodontic practice (London, UK) between September 2017 and January 2022. The clinical records were readily accessible for evaluation. At the time of initial presentation, patients diagnosed with ECR were interviewed regarding potential predisposing factors using a checklist based on existing literature of reported predisposing factors. Absolute and relative frequencies for all variables were computed. Inferential analysis was carried out to determine if there was any potential association between the type and location of tooth in the jaw as well as sex, age of the patient and potential predisposing factors.

Results

No identifiable predisposing factor were detected in 22.3% (48/215 teeth) of the cases, 57.7% (124/215 teeth) had a sole, identifiable predisposing factor and 20% (43/215 teeth) had combined (several) factors. The most common (sole or combined) potential predisposing factors were previous/existing history of orthodontic treatment (25.6%, 55/215 teeth), dental trauma injury (DTI) (20.9%, 45/215 teeth), domestic cat ownership (15.8%, 34/215 teeth) and parafunctional habits (10.2%, 22/215 teeth). The highest occurrence of sole predisposing factors was recorded for males (62%, 75/121 teeth), all other ethnic groups combined (non‐white) patients (58.5%, 24/41 teeth), incisor teeth (64.4%, 56/87 teeth) and maxillary teeth (62.4%, 68/109 teeth). While the highest occurrence of combined predisposing factors was found in females (22.3%, 21/94 teeth), white patients (20.1%, 35/174 teeth), premolars (29%, 9/31 teeth) and mandibular teeth (21.7%, 23/106 teeth). There were significant associations between tooth type and trauma (p < .001), cat ownership (p = .003) and parafunctional habits (p = .017). The association between trauma (p < .001), cat ownership (p = .002) and jaw location were found to be significant. Concerning parafunctional habits, female patients had significantly (p = .015) more ECR occurrence than male patients.

Conclusion

Most cases had 1 (sole) identified predisposing factor; orthodontic treatment, dental trauma history and (previous) cat ownership were the most identified factors. The information may be helpful in diagnosing early stage ECR.
Laboratory and synchrotron x‐ray micro–computed tomography to shed light on degradation features of corroded Roman glass
Authors: Zanini Roberta , Franceschin Giulia , Vigorelli Luisa , Iori Gianluca , Chiaberge Lara , Longo Elena , Guidorzi Laura , Re Alessandro , Giudice Alessandro Lo , Traviglia Arianna
Published: November 2024

This study explores the three‐dimensional structure of Roman glass through the combined use of laboratory and phase‐contrast synchrotron x‐ray micro–computed tomography. This original approach validates a noninvasive analytical procedure designed to enhance the understanding of glass degradation mechanisms, crucial for the preservation of historical artefacts. The high‐resolution images obtained reveal the intricate internal structure and morphology of various forms of glass deterioration, including cracking, pitting, and the formation of multilayered iridescent patinas. The research provides compelling evidence of corrosion processes and interaction mechanisms with burial soil, shedding light on the chemical and physical interactions that occur over centuries. By characterizing and examining the long‐term alteration of ancient glass, this work contributes to the field of archaeometry, offering insights into how different types of glass withstand the test of time in diverse environmental conditions. The findings have important implications for conservation strategies, enabling better preservation techniques for glass artefacts.
Impacts of hydroxyl and bond energy on laser‐induced damage in mid‐infrared chalcogenide glass
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Liang Xiaolin , Jiao Kai , Wang Yuze , Fang Qinnan , Bai Shengchuang , Dai Shixun , Li Pingxue , Wang Xunsi , Wang Rongping
Published: November 2024

Mid‐infrared chalcogenide glasses often suffer from a low laser damage threshold due to their weak bond energy and the presence of impurities, particularly at the specific wavelength of 2.94 µm, which is widely used in medical applications. In this paper, we first investigated the effect of the hydroxyl (OH⁻) peak absorption coefficient on the laser damage properties of As2S3 glasses. The surface temperature distribution of chalcogenide glasses under laser irradiation was also analyzed using the finite element method (FEM) and in‐situ heat monitoring. The results showed that the surface temperature of the glass increases exponentially with the rise in the absorption coefficient at the OH− peak position. Subsequently, Raman spectra analysis and average bond energy (ABE) theory were employed to compare five typical chalcogenide glasses without hydroxyl absorption, revealing the relationship between the laser damage threshold and the bond energies of the glass networks. Finally, an optimized glass composition of Ge25As10S65 was identified, possessing the highest laser damage threshold of 340.98 J/cm2, more than twice that of traditional As2S3. These findings provide essential glass host and data references for the future development of mid‐ and far‐infrared optical fibers and waveguide devices.
Outcomes of a Creative Ability–Based Intervention: Advancing Independence in Learners With Severe Intellectual Disability
Authors: van Wyngaard Annamarie Elisabet , Uys Catharina Jacoba Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Background

When supporting learners with severe intellectual disabilities, teaching methods needs to be adapted. Vona du Toit Model of Creative Ability (VdTMoCA) aims to enhance participation and facilitate adaptive responses through targeted intervention principles. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the impact of an intervention programme for learners with severe intellectual disability based on the VdTMoCA to improve independence in an Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL), namely doing a laundry activity.

Method

A multiple case study with a literal replication design, including six subjects with severe intellectual disability, was used. The intervention consisted of a 1‐week baseline assessment and four intervention sessions. To identify changes, levels of prompting and the time taken to initiate each step were measured.

Results

This study showed that a meticulously designed intervention programme based on the VdTMoCA principles rendered positive outcomes. Activity analysis and adaptation of the steps in a laundry activity, according to the principles of therapeutic relationship, presentation and structuring, contributed to this success.
Does optimality partitioning theory fail for belowground traits? Insights from geophysical imaging of a drought‐release experiment in a Scots Pine forest
Authors: Shakas Alexis , Hediger Roman , Gessler Arthur , Singha Kamini , de Pasquale Giulia , D'Odorico Petra , Wagner Florian M. , Schaub Marcus , Maurer Hansruedi , Griess Holger , Gisler Jonas , Meusburger Katrin
Published: November 2024

We investigate the impact of a 20‐yr irrigation on root water uptake (RWU) and drought stress release in a naturally dry Scots pine forest.

We use a combination of electrical resistivity tomography to image RWU, drone flights to image the crown stress and sensors to monitor soil water content.

Our findings suggest that increased water availability enhances root growth and resource use efficiency, potentially increasing trees' resistance to future drought conditions by enabling water uptake from deeper soil layers.

This research highlights the significant role of ecological memory and legacy effects in determining tree responses to environmental changes.
Performance monitoring of improvisation and score‐playing in a turn‐taking piano duet: An EEG study using altered auditory feedback
Authors: Kim Kunwoo , Fram Noah , Nerness Barbara , Turnbull Cara , Chander Aditya , Georgieva Elena , James Sebastian , Wright Matt , Fujioka Takako
Published: November 2024

In music ensemble performance, perception–action coupling enables the processing of auditory feedback from oneself and other players. However, improvised actions may affect this coupling differently from predetermined actions. This study used two‐person EEG to examine how pianists responded to altered pitch feedback to their own or their partner's actions while they alternated scores or improvised melodies. Feedback‐related negativity (FRN) response for self‐action was greater in scored than improvised conditions, indicating the enhanced action encoding by playing the score. However, subsequent P3a and P3b responses for self‐action were not different across score and improvisation. Further, the P3b response was greater when the two pianists exchanged similar types of melodies (i.e., both improvised or both scores) compared with different types of melodies, suggesting that later cognitive processes may be associated with the task relevance or level of jointness. The presence of the FRN and P3 complex in self‐generated improvised action points to the dynamic nature of performance monitoring even without preconceived action plans. In contrast, the FRN and P3 complex in partner‐generated improvised actions were subdued compared to the baseline, likely due to the unpredictable nature of the improvised actions of others. Finally, we found a tendency that higher trait empathy was associated with smaller self‐action FRN, possibly implying musicians' prioritization of joint goals. Overall, our results suggest that improvisation in a musical turn‐taking task may be distinct from score‐playing for the earlier processes of performance monitoring, whereas later processes might involve updating a joint representation of the musical context.
Meditation expertise influences response bias and prestimulus alpha activity in the somatosensory signal detection task
Authors: Mylius Maik , Guendelman Simon , Iliopoulos Fivos , Gallese Vittorio , Kaltwasser Laura
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the proposed mechanism of mindfulness, its impact on body awareness and interoception, and its potential benefits for mental and physical health. Using psychophysical assessments, we compared 31 expert meditators with 33 matched controls (non‐meditators who engage in regular reading, more than 5 h per week) in terms of somatosensory accuracy with a somatosensory signal detection task (SSDT) and interoceptive sensibility via self‐report measures. We hypothesized that meditators would demonstrate superior somatosensory accuracy, indicative of heightened body awareness, potentially linked to increased alpha modulation in the somatosensory cortex, as observed via electroencephalography (EEG). In the SSDT, participants attempted to detect near‐threshold tactile stimuli presented with a non‐informative light in half of the trials. Contrary to our expectations, the findings showed that meditators had a lower decision threshold rather than higher accuracy. EEG results corroborated earlier research, indicating reduced prestimulus alpha power in meditators, suggesting enhanced alpha modulation. Furthermore, a trial‐by‐trial analysis revealed a negative correlation between prestimulus alpha activity and tactile perception. Compared to controls, meditators also reported greater interoceptive sensibility, less emotional suppression, and fewer difficulties in describing feelings. These findings may imply that enhanced tactile perception is associated with lower prestimulus alpha activity by reducing sensory filtering in the somatosensory cortex, thus increasing response rates without necessarily improving accuracy among meditators.
Eco‐Esteem and Depopulation: Broadening the Perspective on the Demographic Challenge in the Rural World*
Authors: Jaraíz‐Arroyo Germán , Ruíz‐Ballesteros Esteban , García María Cristina Gálvez
Published: November 2024

The dynamics of contemporary rural depopulation have been explained and addressed mainly as a result of structural transformations brought about by economic globalization. The influence of cultural/relational aspects has been less present in the scientific literature, where much of the analysis has been concerned with questions such as the effect of bond and attachment to the local. In connection with this matter, our paper explores how the interactions between social capital and community resilience dynamics affect decisions to leave or stay. The paper finds that the link between social capital and local resilience strategies is mediated by interdependent pattern. To understand how these connections are shaped and operate, we propose the notion of eco‐esteem, understanding it as a pattern of linkages with the socio‐ecosystem, determined by relationships and practices, which conditions people's attitudes, behaviors, expectations and, ultimately, their decisions to stay in or leave the rural world. To demonstrate the usefulness of this theoretical‐methodological perspective, we present a qualitative ethnographic case study in two municipalities in Extremadura (Spain), which are similar in their socio‐demographic characteristics, but which experience significantly different depopulation dynamics.
Brexsea Trade and Uncertainty: Impact of Brexit on Seafood Exports
Authors: Santika Nita , Oglend Atle , Straume Hans‐Martin , Asche Frank
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the effect of the Brexit referendum on Norwegian firms' exports of fresh seafood to the United Kingdom. We exploit the referendum as a quasi‐natural experiment to investigate the effect of an uncertainty shock in trade on export values, volumes, and prices, as well as market entry and exit. First, we find that Norwegian firms experienced an average 2% decrease in total export value resulting from the referendum, suggesting a limited aggregate effect. Second, we examine the role of duration in firm‐to‐firm relationships in response to the shock, finding that more established relationships responded relatively more along the intensive margin to the shock. Third, the market dynamic post‐referendum reveals a nuanced impact; while new market entries were limited, a slight increase in exit probabilities was observed. This reflects a strategic response by Norwegian exporters to the shock, particularly amongst firms with an established export history, indicating a reassessment of market presence. Overall, Norwegian exporters have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, effectively adjusting to the challenges of the Brexit referendum with minimal disruptions while maintaining their international trade relations amidst short‐term uncertainties.
Interleukin‐1 type 1 receptor blockade attenuates the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex in male UC Davis type 2 diabetic mellitus rats
Authors: Huo Yu , Samora Milena , McCuller Richard K. , Stanhope Kimber L. , Havel Peter J. , Harrison Michelle L. , Stone Audrey J.
Published: November 2024

An exaggerated exercise pressor reflex and peripheral neuropathy are both evoked by the same type of thinly myelinated afferents and are present in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Although it is known that the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) contributes to peripheral neuropathy, the effects of IL‐1β on the exercise pressor reflex in T2DM are not known. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effect of IL‐1 receptors on the exercise pressor reflex in T2DM. We compared changes in peak pressor (mean arterial pressure; ΔMAP), blood pressure index (ΔBPi), heart rate (ΔHR) and heart rate index (ΔHRi) responses to static and intermittent contractions and tendon stretch before and after peripheral IL‐1 type 1 receptor blockade (anakinra, Kineret®) in T2DM and healthy male rats and IL‐1 receptor activation (IL‐1β) in healthy rats. Blocking IL‐1 receptors significantly attenuated the ΔMAP and ΔBPi to static contraction in T2DM rats. Furthermore, blocking IL‐1 receptors significantly attenuated the ΔMAP, ΔBPi and ΔHRi to intermittent contraction, and ΔMAP to tendon stretch in T2DM rats (all P < 0.05). In addition, IL‐1 receptor activation significantly exaggerated the ΔMAP and ΔBPi to static contraction and ΔMAP, ΔBPi and ΔHR to intermittent contraction in healthy rats, all P < 0.05. Furthermore, circulating IL‐1β serum concentrations were significantly greater in T2DM rats than in healthy rats (P < 0.05). We conclude that IL‐1 signalling contributes to the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex in T2DM, suggesting for the first time that inflammatory cytokines play a critical role in exaggerated blood pressure responses to exercise in those with T2DM.

image

Key points

Chronic inflammation, a complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), causes increased production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and tumour necrosis factor‐α.

IL‐1β has been shown to sensitize muscle afferents that conduct the exercise pressor reflex.

We found blocking of IL‐1 receptors by anakinra (Kineret®), an IL‐1 type 1 receptor antagonist, significantly attenuated the exaggerated exercise pressor reflex in T2DM rats, but not in healthy rats. In addition, activating IL‐1 receptors with IL‐1β significantly augmented the exercise pressor reflex in healthy rats.

Our findings suggest that IL‐1 receptors, by mediating IL‐1β signalling, play a role in exaggerating the exercise pressor reflex in T2DM.

These results highlight the complex interplay between inflammation and the autonomic nervous system in regulating cardiovascular function, and the potential for using an FDA‐approved IL‐1 receptor antagonist, Kineret®, as a therapeutic approach to reduce adverse cardiovascular events during physical activity in those with T2DM.