bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite Qdrift-product formulas for quantum and classical simulations in real and imaginary time
Authors: Pocrnic Matthew , Hagan Matthew , Carrasquilla Juan , Segal Dvira , Wiebe Nathan
Published: March 2024

Recent study has shown that it can be advantageous to implement a composite channel that partitions the Hamiltonian H for a given simulation problem into subsets A and B such that H=A+B, where the terms in A are simulated with a Trotter-Suzuki channel and the B terms are randomly sampled via the Qdrift algorithm. Here we extend Qdrift and composite product formulas to imaginary time, formulating candidate classical algorithms for quantum Monte Carlo calculations. We upper bound the induced Schatten-1→1 norm on both imaginary-time Qdrift and composite channels. Another recent result demonstrated that simulations of lattice Hamiltonians containing geometrically local interactions can be improved using a Lieb-Robinson argument to decompose H into subsets that contain only terms supported on that subset of the lattice. Here, we provide a quantum algorithm by unifying this result with the composite approach into “local composite channels” and we upper bound the diamond distance. We provide exact numerical simulations of algorithmic cost by counting the number of gates of the form e−iHjt and e−Hjβ to meet a certain error tolerance ε. In doing so, we optimize the partitioning into sets A and B using gradient boosted tree models from machine learning. These numerical studies are important given that product formulas have been historically known to outperform analytic upper bounds. We show constant factor advantages for a variety of interesting Hamiltonians, the maximum of which is a ≈20-fold speedup that occurs in the simulation of Jellium.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Measurement of the neutron capture cross sections of rhenium up to stellar
s
- and
r
-process temperatures at the China Spallation Neutron Source Back-n facility
Authors: Yang Gaole , An Zhendong , Jiang Wei , Li Xiankai , Qiu Weiwei , Liao Zhengfa , Zhuang Ziyue , Zhang Xiaoping , Chen Shengli , Guo Chenchen , Xiao Erxi , Fang Xiao , Li Xinxiang , Wang Hongwei , Hu Xinrong , Jiang Bing , Shen Wenqing , Wang Jincheng , Ren Jie , Ruan Xichao , Wang Dexin , Zhang Su-Yalatu , Luo Wen , Zhu Zhichao , Lan Haoyang , Cao Zongwei , Ma Xu , Liu Yingdu , Wang Pusen , Yang Yi , Su Ping , Deng Xiangai , He Wanbing , Ma Yugang , Ma Chunwang , Wang Yuting , Dai Zhitao , Li Ertao , He Pengqin , Tang RenGuang , Zhou Tao , Wang Jing , Yi Han , Zhang Yue , Chen Yonghao , Fan Ruirui , Gao Keqing , Li Qiang , Sun Kang , Tan Zhixin , Gu Minhao , Jing Hantao , Tang Jingyu ,   The CSNS Back-n Collaboration
Published: March 2024

The neutron capture measurement of natural rhenium was performed with the time-of-flight technique at the Back-n facility of the China Spallation Neutron Source in the energy range from 1 to 500 eV of the resolved resonance region (RRR) and from 5 to 400 keV in the unresolved resonance region (URR). Prompt γ-rays originating from neutron-induced capture events were detected by four C6D6 detectors. The pulse height weighting technique and the double-bunch unfolding method based on the Bayesian theory were used in the data analysis. To obtain reliable measurement results, background subtraction, normalization, and corrections were carefully considered. The multilevel R-matrix Bayesian code was used to extract the resonance parameters in the RRR. An absence of resonance near 392 eV is observed in our measurement, which has been observed in previous works. The average cross sections in the URR of natural rhenium relative to Au197 were obtained in logarithmical equidistant energy bins with 20 bins per energy decade. The code was used to describe the average cross sections in the URR; the Maxwellian-averaged cross sections (MACSs) of Re185 and Re187 are given from kT=5 to 100 keV. At a thermal energy of kT=30 keV, the MACS value for Re185 (1469±127 mb) is in good agreement with the Karlsruhe Astrophysical Database of Nucleosynthesis in Stars (KADoNIS) recommended value (1535±62 mb) within the error bars. By contrast, the value of 1361±118 mb for Re187 shows a discrepancy with the recommended value (1160±57 mb).

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Elasto-viscoplastic spreading: From plastocapillarity to elastocapillarity
Authors: França Hugo L. , Jalaal Maziyar , Oishi Cassio M.
Published: March 2024

We study the spreading of elasto-viscoplastic (EVP) droplets under surface tension effects. The non-Newtonian material flows like a viscoelastic liquid above the yield stress and behaves like a viscoelastic solid below it. Hence, the droplet initially flows under surface tension forces but eventually reaches a final equilibrium shape when the stress everywhere inside the droplet falls below the resisting rheological stresses. We use numerical simulations and combine volume-of-fluid (VOF) method and an EVP constitutive model to systematically study the dynamics of spreading and the final shape of the droplets. The spreading process explored in this study finds applications in coating, droplet-based inkjet printing, and 3D printing, where complex fluids such as paints, thermoplastic filaments, or bio-inks are deposited onto surfaces. Additionally, the computational framework enables the study of a wide range of multiphase interfacial phenomena, from elastocapillarity to plastocapillarity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Excluded volume induces buckling in optically driven colloidal rings
Authors: Cereceda-López Eric , Ostinato Mattia , Ortiz-Ambriz Antonio , Straube Arthur V. , Palassini Matteo , Tierno Pietro
Published: March 2024

In our combined experimental, theoretical, and numerical work, we study the out-of-equilibrium deformations in a shrinking ring of optically trapped, interacting colloidal particles. Steerable optical tweezers are used to confine dielectric microparticles along a circle of discrete harmonic potential wells, and to reduce the ring radius at a controlled quench speed. We show that excluded-volume interactions are enough to induce particle sliding from their equilibrium positions and nonequilibrium zigzag roughening of the colloidal structure. Our work unveils the underlying mechanism of interfacial deformation in radially driven microscopic discrete rings.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Signature of long-ranged spin triplets across a two-dimensional superconductor/helimagnet van der Waals interface
Authors: Spuri A. , Nikolić D. , Chakraborty S. , Klang M. , Alpern H. , Millo O. , Steinberg H. , Belzig W. , Scheer E. , Di Bernardo A.
Published: March 2024

The combination of a superconductor with a magnetically inhomogeneous material has been established as an efficient mechanism for the generation of long-ranged spin-polarized (spin-triplet) Cooper pairs. Evidence for this mechanism, however, has been demonstrated based on studies done on thin-film multilayers, where the strong bonds existing at the interface between the superconductor and the magnetic material should in principle enhance proximity effects and strengthen any electronic correlations. Here, we fabricate devices based on van der Waals (vdW) stacks of flakes of the NbS2 combined with flakes of Cr1/3NbS2, which has a built-in magnetic inhomogeneity due to its helimagnetic spin texture at low temperatures. We find that the critical temperature of these vdW heterostructures is strongly dependent on the magnetic state of Cr1/3NbS2, whose degree of magnetic inhomogeneity can be controlled via an applied magnetic field. Our results demonstrate evidence for the generation of long-ranged spin-triplet pairs across the Cr1/3NbS2/NbS2 vdW interface.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
First determination of whistler wave dispersion relation in superhot
(Te>5keV)
plasmas
Authors: Zhang W. Z. , Fu H. S. , Cao J. B. , Wang Z. , Fu W. D. , Liu Y. Y. , Yu Y.
Published: March 2024

A whistler wave is a fundamental electromagnetic radiation. In the universe, it transmits information through diverse mediums at audio frequencies. To know the properties of such a radio, one should determine how its frequency (energy) changes with its wavelength (momentum). The relation between them is called the dispersion relation, which encodes essential information on the kinetics. Although the dispersion relation governs the majority of the whistler properties, the experimental determination of their entire dispersion is still a challenge today. Especially in high-temperature mediums, the group velocity dispersion properties of whistlers are still unverified by spacecraft experiments despite their practical importance. Here, for the first time, we experimentally determine the dispersion relation of whistler waves in superhot (Te>5keV) plasmas by the magnetospheric multiscale mission located in a magnetotail plasma sheet. Our result unmasks the characteristics of whistler waves at elevated temperatures and exhibits the evolution of their group velocity dispersion from positive to negative, which agrees well with kinetic theory, opening the door to controlled radio excitation and transport.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Cocrystals of a coumarin derivative: an efficient approach towards anti-leishmanial cocrystals against MIL-resistant Leishmania tropica
Authors: Shahbaz Muhammad , Farooq Saba , Choudhary M. Iqbal , Yousuf Sammer
Published: March 2024

Leishmaniasis is a neglected parasitic tropical disease with numerous clinical manifestations. One of the causative agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is Leishmania tropica (L. tropica) known for causing ulcerative lesions on the skin. The adverse effects of the recommended available drugs, such as amphotericin B and pentavalent antimonial, and the emergence of drug resistance in parasites, mean the search for new safe and effective anti-leishmanial agents is crucial. Miltefosine (MIL) was the first recommended oral medication, but its use is now limited because of the rapid emergence of resistance. Pharmaceutical cocrystallization is an effective method to improve the physicochemical and biological properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Herein, we describe the cocrystallization of coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (CU, 1a; 2-oxobenzopyrane-3-carboxylic acid, C10H6O4) with five coformers [2-amino-3-bromopyridine (1b), 2-amino-5-(trifluoromethyl)-pyridine (1c), 2-amino-6-methylpyridine (1d), p-aminobenzoic acid (1e) and amitrole (1f)] in a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio via the neat grinding method. The cocrystals 2–6 obtained were characterized via single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Non-covalent interactions, such as van der Waals, hydrogen bonding, C—H...π and π...π interactions contribute significantly towards the packing of a crystal structure and alter the physicochemical and biological activity of CU. In this research, newly synthesized cocrystals were evaluated for their anti-leishmanial activity against the MIL-resistant L. tropica and cytotoxicity against the 3T3 (normal fibroblast) cell line. Among the non-cytotoxic cocrystals synthesized (2–6), CU:1b (2, IC50 = 61.83 ± 0.59 µM), CU:1c (3, 125.7 ± 1.15 µM) and CU:1d (4, 48.71 ± 0.75 µM) appeared to be potent anti-leishmanial agents and showed several-fold more anti-leishmanial potential than the tested standard drug (MIL, IC50 = 169.55 ± 0.078 µM). The results indicate that cocrystals 2–4 are promising anti-leishmanial agents which require further exploration.
Can you resist the virtual temptations? Unveiling impulsive buying in metaverse retail
Authors: Dang Quan Tri , Wei-Han Tan Garry , Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Cham Tat-Huei , Basu Sriparna , Ooi Keng-Boon
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The main aim of this study is to examine the effect of virtual store atmospheric factors on impulsive purchasing in the metaverse context.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in purposive sampling, 451 individuals with previous metaverse experience were recruited to accomplish the objectives of this research. Next, to identify both linear and nonlinear relationships, the data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) approaches.

Findings

The findings underscore the significance of the virtual store environment and online trust in shaping impulsive buying behaviors within the metaverse retailing setting. Theoretically, this study elucidates the impact of virtual store atmosphere and trust on impulsive buying within a metaverse retail setting.

Practical implications

From the findings of the study, because of the importance of virtual shop content, practitioners must address its role in impulse purchases via affective online trust. The study’s findings are likely to help retailers strategize and improve their virtual store presentations in the metaverse.

Originality/value

The discovery adds to the understanding of consumer behavior in the metaverse by probing the roles of virtual store atmosphere, online trust and impulsive buying.
Contextualising employee engagement in crisis: a protective caring approach to employee engagement in the banking sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Bešić Almina , Hirt Christian , Rahimić Zijada
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study focuses on HR practices that foster employee engagement during Covid-19. Companies in transition economies are particularly vulnerable to crisis and downsizing and other recessionary practices are frequently used.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the model of caring human resource management, we utilise interviews with human resource representatives of 10 banks in the transition economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We analyse the banks at two different times to demonstrate how and why companies adapt their HR practices.

Findings

Our findings show a changing mindset in the deployment of highly context-specific HR practices. Strengthening company culture through a sense of community and communication ensure stability and continuity in work. Rather than layoffs, flexible work has become standard.

Practical implications

By highlighting the interplay between HR practices and employee engagement, we contribute to the discussion on engagement in exceptional circumstances and challenging settings and demonstrate how caring responsibilities “migrate” into HR practices in the professional context of a transition economy.

Originality/value

We propose a context-specific “protective caring approach” to foster employee engagement during crises.
Mental health and well-being in tourism scholarship: a Horizon 2050 paper
Authors: Gedecho Ermias Kifle , Kim Seongseop (Sam)
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess extant research streams to delineate new research directions for tourism stakeholders’ mental health and well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive review of the literature on various topics related to mental health, well-being, memorable experiences, emotions, community well-being, wellness tourism and sustainable development was conducted.

Findings

Several research directions for different research subjects were identified: tourists employees, and the community. For tourists, the research topics included mental health, well-being, memorable experiences and wellness tourism. For research on employees, the focus included their mental health, psychological well-being and negative emotions. In studying the role of tourism in community mental health and well-being, research has explored community well-being and emotional solidarity and used a capital approach. This study discusses several new research directions based on past research trends, global trends and other relevant factors.

Originality/value

This conceptual study can help understand the new holistic research landscape of mental health and well-being.
Ability to re‐foam frothed milk at different solid concentrations and their foam structure
Authors: Ho Thao M , Lu Yu‐Jen , Xiong Xiaoying , Bhandari Bhesh R , Bansal Nidhi
Published: March 2024

Left‐over frothed milk in most coffeehouses is typically discarded, leading to wastage of a lot of milk due to a common belief that frothed milk is unable to re‐foam. We investigated the foaming and physical properties of frothed reconstituted skim milk (1.5–15%, w/w) foamed up to four times. The results showed that at all investigated solid concentrations and foaming times, milk samples retained their high foamability and foam stability, and uniform micro‐foam structure. Similarly, properties of milk samples including viscosity (1.9–3.3 Pa.s), absolute zeta‐potential (25.5–27.2 mV) and surface tension (54.8–59.7 mN/m) remained unchanged even after re‐foaming multiple times.
Risk factors for violence in an emergency department: Nurses' perspectives
Authors: Ilarda Elisa , Senz Ainslie , Tynan Anna , McIlveen Peter
Published: March 2024

Objective

Work‐related violence remains a significant problem in healthcare settings, including EDs. Violence risk assessment tools have been developed to improve risk mitigation in this setting; however, incorporation of these tools into standard hospital processes remains scarce. This research aimed to explore nurses' perspectives on the Bröset Violence Checklist used in routine violence risk assessment and their recommendations for additional items.

Methods

Thirty nursing staff who used the Bröset Violence Checklist (BVC) as standard practice for 5 years participated in two focus groups where 23 violence risk factors were presented. Using multiple methods, participants were asked to select and elaborate from a pre‐determined list what they considered most useful in violence risk assessment in respect to descriptors and terminology.

Results

Quantitative data showed most risk factors presented to the group were considered to be predictive of violence. Ten were regarded as associated with risk, and overt behaviours received the highest votes. The terms ‘shouting and demanding’ was preferred over ‘boisterous’, and ‘cognitive impairment’ over ‘confusion’. Patient clinical characteristics and staff perceptions of harm, inability to observe subtle behaviour, imposed restrictions and interventions and environmental conditions and impact were also important considerations.

Conclusions

We recommend that violence risk assessment include: history of violence, cognitive impairment, psychotic symptoms, drug and alcohol influence, shouting and demanding, verbal abuse/hostility, impulsivity, agitation, irritability and imposed restrictions and interventions. These violence risk factors fit within the four categories of historical, clinical, behavioural and situational.
Effect of decreasing PEEP on hyperinflation and collapse in COVID‐19: A computed tomography study
Authors: Santini Alessandro , Protti Alessandro , Pennati Francesca , Dalla Corte Francesca , Martinetti Nicolò , Pugliese Luca , Picardo Giorgio , Chiurazzi Chiara , Ferrari Michele , Costantini Elena , Aliverti Andrea , Cecconi Maurizio
Published: March 2024

Background

High positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP>10 cmH2O) is commonly used in mechanically ventilated hypoxemic patients with COVID‐19. However, some epidemiological and physiological studies indirectly suggest that using a lower PEEP may primarily and beneficially decrease lung hyperinflation in this population. Herein we directly quantified the effect of decreasing PEEP from 15 to 10 cmH2O on lung hyperinflation and collapse in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID‐19.

Methods

Twenty mechanically ventilated patients with COVID‐19 underwent a lung computed tomography (CT) at PEEP of 15 and 10 cmH2O. The effect of decreasing PEEP on lung hyperinflation and collapse was directly quantified as the change in the over‐aerated (density below −900 HU) and non‐aerated (density above −100 HU) lung volumes. The net response to decreasing PEEP was computed as the sum of the change in those two compartments and expressed as the change in the “pathologic” lung volume. If the pathologic lung volume decreased (i.e., hyperinflation decreased more than collapse increased) when PEEP was decreased, the net response was considered positive; otherwise, it was considered negative.

Results

On average, the ratio of arterial tension to inspiratory fraction of oxygen (PaO2:FiO2) in the overall study population was 137 (119–162) mmHg. In 11 (55%) patients, the net response to decreasing PEEP was positive. Their over‐aerated lung volume decreased by 159 (98–186) mL, while the non‐aerated lung volume increased by only 58 (31–91) mL. In nine (45%) patients, the net response was negative. Their over‐aerated lung volume decreased by 46 (18–72) mL, but their non‐aerated lung volume increased by 107 (44–121) mL.

Conclusion

In 20 patients with COVID‐19 the net response to decreasing PEEP, as assessed with lung CT, was variable. In approximately half of them it was positive (and possibly beneficial), with a decrease in hyperinflation larger than the increase in collapse.
A de novo mutation in CACNA1A is associated with autosomal dominant bovine familial convulsions and ataxia in Angus cattle
Authors: Reith Rachel R. , Beever Jonathan E. , Paschal Joe C. , Banta Jason , Porter Brian F. , Steffen David J. , Hairgrove Thomas B. , Petersen Jessica L.
Published: March 2024

Bovine familial convulsions and ataxia (BFCA) is considered an autosomal dominant syndrome with incomplete penetrance. Nine Angus calves from the same herd were diagnosed with BFCA within days of birth. Necropsy revealed cerebellar and spinal cord lesions associated with the condition. Parentage testing confirmed that all affected calves had a common sire. The sire was then bred to 36 cows across two herds using artificial insemination, producing an additional 14 affected calves. The objective of this investigation was to identify hypothesized dominant genetic variation underlying the condition. Whole‐genome sequencing was performed on the sire, six affected and seven unaffected paternal half‐sibling calves and combined with data from 135 unrelated controls. The sire and five of the six affected calves were heterozygous for a nonsense variant (Chr7 g.12367906C>T, c.5073C>T, p.Arg1681*) in CACNA1A. The other affected calves (N = 8) were heterozygous for the variant but it was absent in the other unaffected calves (N = 7) and parents of the sire. This variant was also absent in sequence data from over 6500 other cattle obtained via public repositories and collaborator projects. The variant in CACNA1A is expressed in the cerebellum of the ataxic calves as detected in the transcriptome and was not differentially expressed compared with controls. The CACNA1A protein is part of a highly expressed cerebellar calcium voltage gated channel. The nonsense variant is proposed to cause haploinsufficiency, preventing proper transmission of neuronal signals through the channel and resulting in BFCA.
‘I was able to make a better decision about my health.’ Wāhine experiences of colposcopy at a marae‐based health clinic: A qualitative study
Authors: Ormandy Judy , Phillips Simon , Campbell Maringikura , Haenga‐Melvin Bernie , Phillips‐Govind Luana , Filoche Sara
Published: March 2024

Background

Equitable access to colposcopy services is required if we are to realise the benefit of the introduction of human papilloma virus (HPV) screening in Aotearoa New Zealand. We piloted a community colposcopy clinic, co‐located at an urban marae health clinic.

Aim

To describe the experiences of wāhine (women) attending the marae‐based colposcopy clinic.

Methods

An in‐depth reflexive thematic analysis from 34 people's accounts was undertaken.

Results

Five themes were identified from the experiences of wāhine attending the clinic. Three themes related to how having a local clinic supported access: everyone was welcoming and friendly, the environment was familiar and non‐clinical and the clinic was accessible. The fourth theme related to how this contributed to agency. A fifth theme relates to wāhine views about informing the ongoing provision of colposcopy services. The experiences reflected the principles and values practised at the marae health clinic. Wāhine described feeling cared for as soon as they entered the clinic. As the clinic was local, and for some based at their marae, it was a known space where they knew the experience would be safe. Whānau were welcome with spaces for children to play. Being local meant there were fewer logistics to manage, all of which supported access.

Discussion

Prioritising wāhine through the provision of culturally safe and accessible colposcopy is feasible. It has the potential to contribute to the elimination of cervical cancer in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Surgical resection of adrenal metastasis from colorectal cancers: a systematic review
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ai Van Terresa , Wong Sze Ling , Ng Zi Qin
Published: March 2024

Background

The decision for resection of adrenal metastasis from colorectal cancers remain controversial and there is no proposed standard treatment. The aim of the article is to review the available literature on outcomes and complications rates following adrenalectomy for adrenal metastasis from colorectal cancer.

Methods

Relevant papers were identified through electronic databases. Data was extracted independently by two authors on a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet up to June 2023.

Results

A total of 55 studies were included in the final analysis (145 cases). A large proportion of patients had an uneventful postoperative recovery following surgical adrenalectomy. The mean length of follow up ranged from 2 months to 9.5 years. A total of 33 (22.8%) patients were alive and well with no evidence of local or systemic recurrence; 2 (1.4%) patients had recurrence in the bed of adrenalectomy; 2 (1.4%) patients were alive with recurrence in the contralateral adrenal gland; 4 (2.8%) patients were alive with extra‐adrenal metastasis, and 7 (4.8%) patients were alive and well with no comments regarding local and systemic recurrence. Post‐operative mortality following adrenalectomy was uncommon: 1 patient died due to systemic sepsis following anastomotic leak. 17.2% of patients died due to disease progression.

Conclusion

If complete resection can be achieved, surgical adrenalectomy in the surgically fit patient should be strongly considered, especially in patients with solitary adrenal metastasis which may translate into survival benefits and potential surgical cure.
Speech analysis of teaching assistant interventions in small group collaborative problem solving with undergraduate engineering students
Authors: D'Angelo Cynthia M. , Rajarathinam Robin Jephthah
Published: March 2024

This descriptive study focuses on using voice activity detection (VAD) algorithms to extract student speech data in order to better understand the collaboration of small group work and the impact of teaching assistant (TA) interventions in undergraduate engineering discussion sections. Audio data were recorded from individual students wearing head‐mounted noise‐cancelling microphones. Video data of each student group were manually coded for collaborative behaviours (eg, group task relatedness, group verbal interaction and group talk content) of students and TA–student interactions. The analysis includes information about the turn taking, overall speech duration patterns and amounts of overlapping speech observed both when TAs were intervening with groups and when they were not. We found that TAs very rarely provided explicit support regarding collaboration. Key speech metrics, such as amount of turn overlap and maximum turn duration, revealed important information about the nature of student small group discussions and TA interventions. TA interactions during small group collaboration are complex and require nuanced treatments when considering the design of supportive tools.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Student turn taking can provide information about the nature of student discussions and collaboration.

Real classroom audio data of small groups typically have lots of background noise and present challenges for audio analysis.

TAs have little training in how to productively intervene with students about collaborative skills.

What this paper adds

TA interaction with groups primarily focused on task progress and understanding of concepts with negligible explicit support on building collaborative skills.

TAs intervened with the groups often which gave the students little time for uptake of their suggestions or deeper discussion.

Student turn overlap was higher without the presence of TAs.

Maximum turn duration can be an important real‐time turn metric to identify the least verbally active student participant in a group.

Implications for practice and/or policy

TA training should include information about how to monitor groups for collaborative behaviours and when and how they should intervene to provide feedback and support.

TA feedback systems should keep track of previous interventions by TAs (especially in contexts where there are multiple TAs facilitating) and the duration since previous intervention to ensure that TAs do not intervene with a group too frequently with little time for student uptake.

Maximum turn duration could be used as a real‐time metric to identify the least verbally active student in a group so that support could be provided to them by the TAs.
Exploring the origins of identity fusion: Shared emotional experience activates fusion with the group over time
Authors: Zabala Jon , Vázquez Alexandra , Conejero Susana , Pascual Aitziber
Published: March 2024

Identity fusion is a visceral feeling of oneness with a group, known to strongly motivate extreme pro‐group behaviour. However, the evidence on its causes is currently limited, primarily due to the prevalence of cross‐sectional research. To address this gap, this study analysed the evolution of fusion in response to a massive collective ritual, Korrika—a race in support of the Basque language—, over three time periods: before (n = 748) and immediately following participation (n = 402), and 7 weeks thereafter (n = 273). Furthermore, we explored the potential mediating roles of two key factors: perceived emotional synchrony, a sense of emotional unity among participants that emerges during collective rituals, and kama muta (moved by love), an unexplored emotion in relation to fusion, which arises from feelings of shared essence. The proportion of fused participants increased significantly after participation and remained stable for at least 7 weeks. Perceived emotional synchrony and kama muta apparently explained the effect of participants' behavioural involvement in the ritual on subsequent fusion, but only among those who were not previously fused with Korrika participants. We conclude that emotional processes during collective rituals play a fundamental role in the construction of identity fusion.
Rehabilitation for adults with an intellectual disability and mental health and behavioural complexities: A scoping review
Authors: Williams Jonathan , Shahzad Saman , Manandhar‐Richardson Mizla , Jaydeokar Sujeet , Bramwell Vicky , Garland Adam , Hutchinson Christine , Odiyoor Mahesh
Published: March 2024

Background

There has been significant focus in the past decade on reducing admissions to assessment and treatment units for people with intellectual disabilities experiencing mental health or behavioural concerns. This has included the development of intensive support functions of National Health Service Learning Disability services to bolster community support and treatment for people at risk of admission. However, in recent years, there has been increased consideration of service development to include rehabilitation functions which would aim to proactively provide medium‐term additional input to individuals with a complexity of need. This input would aim to improve future trajectories and support the individuals to remain living a good life in their own community. This review focuses on community and in‐patient approaches to meeting a complexity of need.

Method

A scoping review was carried out according to established best practice guidelines. Papers returned from the search were screened by the following inclusion criteria (a) Models or Outcomes of Rehabilitation; (b) Intellectual Disability Population; (c) Sample being 18 or above and (d) longer than short‐term stay/treatment, defined as 6 months or longer; and (e) Mental health and/or behaviour complexities. The search was conducted in electronic databases CINAHL, PsycInfo, Medline, Embase and Social Policy & Practice. Here, 3790 articles were initially identified and 27 were ultimately included in the review.

Findings

There are few studies evaluating rehabilitation for people with intellectual disabilities and mental health or behavioural concerns. There was some evidence that accessing assessment and treatment inpatient provision resulted in clinical improvements. Some studies demonstrated initial evidence that longer term rehabilitation was beneficial as a step‐down from inpatient care. Some key principles were identified in terms of rehabilitation approaches: the need for person‐centred creative approaches, suitable staff training, focus on building skills, and a focus on increasing quality of life.

Conclusion

There are some indicators of what good rehabilitation services might comprise for people with an intellectual disability, who have rehabilitation needs. However, far more research and guidance are required in this area. In particular, it is unclear whether rehabilitation is best provided within an inpatient or community model, and further detail is required about optimal components of such rehabilitation.
Exploring long‐term outcomes of a peer support programme for parents* of children with disability in Australia
Authors: Lancaster Katharine , Kern Margaret L. , Harding Katherine , Bayasgalan Mogi , Janson Annick , Mahmic Sylvana , Bhopti Anoo
Published: March 2024

Peer support groups can offer parents of children with disability, positive well‐being outcomes. Peer support groups not only provide opportunities for connections with others with similar experiences but also provide resources and information, emotional support, a sense of belonging and may help reduce stress and isolation. Peer support groups are an established form of support existing within family centred practice. However, it is unclear whether peer support groups achieve the outcomes that they aim to deliver. Further, little is known about the longer‐term outcomes for parents attending such groups. This study aimed to explore the medium‐ and long‐term outcomes and experiences of parents who participated in a peer support programme (the Now and Next programme) for parents of children with disability. Well‐being data were collected at three timepoints (Ts): prior to commencing the programme (T1), immediately after completion of the programme (T2) and 6–30 months after completion of the programme (T3). Results of the study showed empowerment and well‐being improved from T1 to T2, with gains maintained at T3. Hope scores did not significantly change over time. Participants continued to set and achieve goals over time using resources from the programme. Improvements in parents' well‐being and empowerment scores were maintained in the longer‐term. Our study contributes to evidence confirming sustained long‐term outcomes of peer support programmes and demonstrates that building parent capacity, empowerment and well‐being has a lasting effect on the parents of children with disability.
Participation of adolescents with and without physical disabilities and chronic diseases: A comprehensive conceptualization
Authors: Bernard Marie , Hoffmann Laura , Richter Matthias , Völlm Carina , Fink Astrid , Dawal Britta
Published: March 2024

Background

In 2001, the International Classification of Functioning and Disability (ICF) introduced participation as a main goal of rehabilitation processes. However, to date, a comprehensive concept of participation in the rehabilitative context is missing, particularly in German‐speaking countries. We thus aimed to refine and extend the existing concepts of participation in this brief communication.

Methods

In preceding studies, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with adolescents who either had chronic diseases and/or physical disabilities or had no impairments and focus groups with parents and experts. Based on these diverse perspectives and findings, we refine the term participation.

Results

Participation is a construct that is embedded in a social context and consists of objective (i.e., attendance) and subjective (i.e., satisfaction and involvement) dimensions. These dimensions are reflected in different domains and areas that are relevant to adolescents' lives. In addition, the subjective relevance of respective areas in life needs to be regarded as a weighing component when evaluating participation.

Conclusion

Our results reflect international models on participation, refine the existing concept, and underline the multidimensional character of participation. These findings are urgently needed to develop appropriate instruments, for example, for assessing whether rehabilitative processes are effective regarding the goal of participation.
A Three Delays theoretical framework to describe social determinants as barriers to dental care
Authors: Ticku Shenam , Watrous Olivia , Burgess Danielle , Luo Yuanyuan Laura , DSouza Sabina , Simpson Catherine , King Kareem , Riedy Christine A. , Seymour Brittany
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The Three Delays model is a well‐established global public health framework for the utilization of obstetric services where each delay represents a series of factors affecting utilization: (1) Delay #1—Deciding to seek care, (2) Delay #2—Reaching an appropriate facility and (3) Delay #3—Receiving adequate care. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the application of the Three Delays model to dental service utilization and describe factors attributed to delayed utilization within this framework.

Methods

This study utilized a framework analysis, underpinned by the Three Delays model, to examine delays in dental care utilization. A criterion purposive sample of English‐speaking adults (18+ years) in Massachusetts and Florida, USA with limited dental care access was recruited. Data were collected via semi‐structured interviews conducted in two phases: 17 individual interviews, followed by interviews with a subset of five participants over 3 months (a total of 18 interviews). The analysis involved inductive thematic coding and systematic organization within the framework.

Results

Major themes and subthemes were constructed from the participants' narratives, identified and categorized as factors in the Three Delays framework. Each of the delays was interrelated to the other two, and Delay #1 was the most common delay based on the participants' interviews. The themes and subthemes contributing to one or more delays included interpersonal communication, prior dental experience, financial considerations, childcare costs, social connection, technology literacy, time constraints, competing priorities, stressors such as eviction and immigration status and microaggressions including racism and stigma.

Conclusion

The Three Delays model was applicable to the study of dental care utilization and factors that impact the decision to seek dental care, reaching an appropriate dental facility and receiving adequate dental care in this study context.
Influence of keratinized mucosa width on the resolution of peri‐implant mucositis: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Blasi Gonzalo , Chierico Francesco , Amerio Ettore , Àlvarez Gerard , Isabal Sergio , Arredondo Alexandre , Blanc Vanessa , Nart José , Monje Alberto
Published: March 2024

Background

The prevalence of peri‐implant diseases, driven by biofilm accumulation and influenced by factors such as the width of keratinized mucosa (KM), underscores the need for understanding their etiology and management.

Purpose

To evaluate the association between the KM width and the clinical resolution of peri‐implant mucositis after mechanical therapy.

Materials and methods

Patients with an implant diagnosed with peri‐implant mucositis were allocated to two groups: wide band of KM (WKM ≥ 2 mm) and narrow/no band of KM (NKM < 2 mm). Data and submucosa biofilm were collected at baseline and at 8, 12, and 24 weeks after nonsurgical therapy. A Brunner–Langer model was estimated for longitudinal data to evaluate and compare changes in any clinical parameter throughout follow‐up between both groups. Furthermore, the microbial profiles were evaluated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

A total of 38 implants were analyzed. At 24 weeks, bleeding on probing was substantially reduced in both groups, reaching statistical significance (p < 0.001). Treatment resulted in 23.9% less effective in achieving success for NKM. As such, NKM reduced the odds of disease resolution by 80% compared to WKM. The rest of the explored clinical parameters yielded more favorable outcomes for WKM versus NKM. Neither the alpha nor the beta diversity of the microbial profiles were significantly modulated by KM.

Conclusions

KM width influences the clinical resolution of peri‐implant mucositis after mechanical therapy (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04874467?cond=keratinized%20mucosa&rank=8, NCT04874467, 04/30/2021).
NEK2 plays an essential role in porcine embryonic development by maintaining mitotic division and DNA damage response via the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Jeon Se‐Been , Jeong Pil‐Soo , Kang Hyo‐Gu , Kim Min Ju , Yun Ji Hyeon , Lim Kyung Seob , Song Bong‐Seok , Kim Sun‐Uk , Cho Seong‐Keun , Sim Bo‐Woong
Published: March 2024

NIMA‐related kinase 2 (NEK2) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that regulates mitosis and plays pivotal roles in cell cycle regulation and DNA damage repair. However, its function in porcine embryonic development is unknown. In this study, we used an NEK2‐specific inhibitor, JH295 (JH), to investigate the role of NEK2 in embryonic development and the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Inhibition of NEK2 after parthenogenesis activation or in vitro fertilization significantly reduced the rates of cleavage and blastocyst formation, the numbers of trophectoderm and total cells and the cellular survival rate compared with the control condition. NEK2 inhibition delayed cell cycle progression at all stages from interphase to cytokinesis during the first mitotic division; it caused abnormal nuclear morphology in two‐ and four‐cell stage embryos. Additionally, NEK2 inhibition significantly increased DNA damage and apoptosis, and it altered the expression levels of DNA damage repair‐ and apoptosis‐related genes. Intriguingly, NEK2 inhibition downregulated the expression of β‐catenin and its downstream target genes. To validate the relationship between Wnt/β‐catenin signalling and NEK2 during porcine embryonic development, we cultured porcine embryos in JH‐treated medium with or without CHIR99021, a Wnt activator. CHIR99021 co‐treatment strongly restored the developmental parameters reduced by NEK2 inhibition to control levels. Our findings suggest that NEK2 plays an essential role in porcine embryonic development by regulating DNA damage repair and normal mitotic division via the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway.
Assessing the potential for precision medicine in body weight reduction with regard to type 2 diabetes mellitus therapies: A meta‐regression analysis of 120 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Vargas Kris G. , Rütten Tobias , Siemes Benedikt , Brockmeyer Maximilian , Parco Claudio , Hoss Alexander , Schlesinger Sabrina , Jung Christian , Roden Michael , Kelm Malte , Wolff Georg , Kuss Oliver
Published: March 2024

Aims

To assess the potential for precision medicine in type 2 diabetes by quantifying the variability of body weight as response to pharmacological treatment and to identify predictors which could explain this variability.

Methods

We used randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing glucose‐lowering drugs (including but not limited to sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and thiazolidinediones) to placebo from four recent systematic reviews. RCTs reporting on body weight after treatment to allow for calculation of its logarithmic standard deviation (log[SD], i.e., treatment response heterogeneity) in verum (i.e., treatment) and placebo groups were included. Meta‐regression analyses were performed with respect to variability of body weight after treatment and potential predictors.

Results

A total of 120 RCTs with a total of 43 663 participants were analysed. A slightly larger treatment response heterogeneity was shown in the verum groups, with a median log(SD) of 2.83 compared to 2.79 from placebo. After full adjustment in the meta‐regression model, the difference in body weight log(SD) was −0.026 (95% confidence interval −0.044; 0.008), with greater variability in the placebo groups. Scatterplots did not show any slope divergence (i.e., interaction) between clinical predictors and the respective treatment (verum or placebo).

Conclusions

We found no major treatment response heterogeneity in RCTs of glucose‐lowering drugs for body weight reduction in type 2 diabetes. The precision medicine approach may thus be of limited value in this setting.
Targeting nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase decreased aggressiveness of osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Serritelli E. N. , Sartini D. , Campagna R. , Pozzi V. , Martin N. I. , van Haren M. J. , Salvolini E. , Cecati M. , Rubini C. , Emanuelli M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary bone malignancy that mostly affects young people, characterized by high metastatic potential, and a marked chemoresistance that is responsible for disease relapse in most patients. Therefore, it is necessary to identify novel molecules to setup targeted strategies to improve the clinical outcome. The enzyme nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyses the N‐methylation of nicotinamide and other analogs, playing a crucial role in the biotransformation of drugs and xenobiotics. NNMT overexpression was reported in a wide variety of cancers, and several studies demonstrated that is able to promote cell proliferation, migration and resistance to chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to explore the potential involvement of NNMT in OS.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analyses have been performed to evaluate NNMT expression in selected OS and healthy bone tissue samples. Subsequently, OS cell lines have been transfected with vectors targeting NNMT mRNA (shRNAs) and the impact of this downregulation on migration, cell proliferation, and response to chemotherapeutic treatment was also analysed by wound healing, MTT, SRB and Trypan blue assays, respectively.

Results

Results showed that OS samples display a significantly higher NNMT expression compared with healthy tissue. Preliminary results suggest that NNMT silencing in OS cell lines is associated to a decrease of cell proliferation and migration, as well as to enhanced sensitivity to chemotherapy. Data obtained showed that NNMT may represent an interesting marker for OS detection and a promising target for effective anti‐cancer therapy.
Complete fractures through osseous cyst‐like lesions of the proximal phalanx in three horses
Authors: Ammann Liliane , Fürst Anton E. , Jackson Michelle A.
Published: March 2024

This case series describes three cases of osseous cyst‐like lesions of the proximal phalanx (P1), which were associated with a complete fracture. The fractures and osseous cyst‐like lesions were analysed through radiographic and computed tomographic (CT) images for fracture configuration and prodromal factors, such as subchondral sclerosis and periosteal new bone formation. Internal stabilisation was performed in all cases through placing transcortical bone screws under CT guidance. In conclusion, the presence of osseous cyst‐like lesions in the proximal P1 as well as the addition of prodromal markers, such as localised periosteal new bone formation and subchondral bone sclerosis, suggest pathological subchondral bone with the potential to fracture and stabilisation should be prioritised.