bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citizenship, Immigration and Race Relations in Lambeth Palace Library Archives
Authors: Elias Hannah
Published: July 2024

Lambeth Palace Library's primary function is to preserve the records of the Church of England, but there are ample opportunities for researchers to use these archives to better understand Britain's histories of citizenship, race relations, and migration in the twentieth century. Lambeth Palace Library (LPL) houses documents on projects on race relations undertaken by the British Council of Churches and the Church of England's Board of Social Responsibility's Race and Community Relations Committee, as well as Archbishop Michael Ramsey's correspondence from his tenure as Chair of the National Committee of Commonwealth Immigrants. These papers attest to the Church of England's significant role in urgent national debates on migrant rights and race equality, and the work of organisations representing the interests of Commonwealth migrants as they actively sought the support of church leaders in their campaigns. LPL collections reveal the important place British churches had in building networks, providing funding and supplying resources to support anti‐racist organisations, and the ways ideas of Britishness were contested in the 1960s and 1970s around the passage of the Commonwealth Immigrants Acts and Race Relations Acts. Papers in LPL collections can also be used to critically examine post‐imperial formations of Whiteness, xenophobia and the racialisation of British citizenship.
Information and resources VA health system leaders need to manage enrollment and retention for Post‐9/11 veterans
Authors: Brown Todd , Fagerlin Angela , Samore Matthew H. , Harris Alex H. S. , Galyean Patrick , Zickmund Susan , Pettey Warren B. P. , Vanneman Megan E.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To understand Veterans Health Administration (VA) leaders' information and resource needs for managing post‐9/11 Veterans' VA enrollment and retention.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Interviews conducted from March–May 2022 of VA Medical Center (VAMC) leaders (N = 27) across 15 sites, using stratified sampling based on VAMC characteristics: enrollment rates, number of recently separated Veterans in catchment area, and state Medicaid expansion status.

Study Design

Interview questions were developed using Petersen et al.'s Factors Influencing Choice of Healthcare System framework as a guide. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and two coders analyzed the interviews using Atlas.ti, a qualitative software program. Coders followed the qualitative coding philosophy developed by Crabtree and Miller, a process of developing codes for salient concepts as they are identified during the analysis process.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Two coders analyzed 22% (N = 6) of the interviews and discussed and adjudicated any discrepancies. One coder independently coded the remainder of the interviews.

Principal Findings

Several key themes were identified regarding facilitators and barriers for VA enrollment including reputation for high‐quality VA care, convenience of VA services, awareness of VA services and benefits, and VA mental health services. Nearly every VA leader actively used tools and data to understand enrollment and retention rates and sought to enroll and retain more Veterans. To improve the management of enrollment and retention, VA leaders would like data shared in an easily understandable format and the capability to share data between the VA and community healthcare systems.

Conclusions

Enrollment and retention information is important for healthcare leaders to guide their health system decisions. Various tools are currently being used to try to understand the data. However, a multifunctional tool is needed to better aggregate the data to provide VA leadership with key information on Veterans' enrollment and retention.
Advancements and greenification potential of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers for chromatographic analysis of veterinary drug residues in milk
Authors: Farooq Saqib , Xu Lizhou , Ullah Safat , Li Jinhua , Nie Jiyun , Ping Jianfeng , Ying Yibin
Published: July 2024

Milk, as a widely consumed nutrient‐rich food, is crucial for bone health, growth, and overall nutrition. The persistent application of veterinary drugs for controlling diseases and heightening milk yield has imparted substantial repercussions on human health and environmental ecosystems. Due to the high demand, fresh consumption, complex composition of milk, and the potential adverse impacts of drug residues, advanced greener analytical methods are necessitated. Among them, functional materials‐based analytical methods attract wide concerns. The magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers (MMIPs), as a kind of typical functional material, possess excellent greenification characteristics and potencies, and they are easily integrated into various detection technologies, which have offered green approaches toward analytes such as veterinary drugs in milk. Despite their increasing applications and great potential, MMIPs’ use in dairy matrices remains underexplored, especially regarding ecological sustainability. This work reviews recent advances in MMIPs’ synthesis and application as efficient sorbents for veterinary drug extraction in milk followed by chromatographic analysis. The uniqueness and effectiveness of MMIPs in real milk samples are evaluated, current limitations are addressed, and greenification opportunities are proposed. MMIPs show promise in revolutionizing green analytical procedures for veterinary drug detection, aligning with the environmental goals of modern food production systems.
Advances in strawberry postharvest preservation and packaging: A comprehensive review
Authors: Priyadarshi Ruchir , Jayakumar Aswathy , de Souza Carolina Krebs , Rhim Jong‐Whan , Kim Jun Tae
Published: July 2024

Strawberries spoil rapidly after harvest due to factors such as the ripening process, weight loss, and, most importantly, microbial contamination. Traditionally, several methods are used to preserve strawberries after harvest and extend their shelf life, including thermal, plasma, radiation, chemical, and biological treatments. Although these methods are effective, they are a concern from the perspective of safety and consumer acceptance of the treated food. To address these issues, more advanced environment‐friendly technologies have been developed over the past decades, including modified and controlled atmosphere packaging, active biopolymer‐based packaging, or edible coating formulations. This method can not only significantly extend the shelf life of fruit but also solve safety concerns. Some studies have shown that combining two or more of these technologies can significantly extend the shelf life of strawberries, which could significantly contribute to expanding the global supply chain for delicious fruit. Despite the large number of studies underway in this field of research, no systematic review has been published discussing these advances. This review aims to cover important information about postharvest physiology, decay factors, and preservation methods of strawberry fruits. It is a pioneering work that integrates, relates, and discusses all information on the postharvest fate and handling of strawberries in one place. Additionally, commercially used techniques were discussed to provide insight into current developments in strawberry preservation and suggest future research directions in this field of study. This review aims to enrich the knowledge of academic and industrial researchers, scientists, and students on trends and developments in postharvest preservation and packaging of strawberry fruits.
A comparative review of error rates in forensic handwriting examination
Authors: Crot Sébastien , Marquis Raymond
Published: July 2024

A comparison of error rates between studies in forensic handwriting examination has been made in response to the lack of knowledge on error in this field. Fifteen indicators have been used to describe and compare error rates between studies. The results of each study have been processed to determine these indicators. Parameters related to the participants, conclusion scale, amount of time allocated to the task, and the task itself are also reported. The error rate indicators are provided for each study, and then combined across studies using values of mean and standard deviation. Experts were found to perform better than laypeople. For handwritten texts, absolute error rate for experts ranges from 0.32% to 5.85% (with a mean of 2.84 ± 2.33%), and for laypeople from 11.43% to 28.72% (with a mean of 21.40 ± 8.94%). For signatures, absolute error rate for experts ranges from 0% to 4.86% (with a mean of 2.50 ± 1.55%), and for laypeople from 10.68% to 28% (with a mean of 19.55 ± 7.05%). Overall, experts have an absolute error rate of 2.63 ± 1.73% (against 20.16 ± 7.20% for laypeople). Experts are also more likely to give inconclusive answers than laypeople. Overall, the rate of absolute inconclusive answers for experts is 21.96 ± 23.15% (against 8.13 ± 7.96% for laypeople). The comparative review of error rates presented in the present article contributes to validating the discipline by showing how research has been devoted to meeting the criteria of testing to be considered scientific.
Evaluation of reported and unreported water uses in various sectors of the Potomac basin for the year 2017
Authors: Wallace Carlington W. , Moltz Heidi L. N. , Nagel Andrea , Nummer Stephanie , Bencala Karin R.
Published: July 2024

Water resource planners and managers in the Mid‐Atlantic United States typically determine the sufficiency of water supplies to meet demand by comparing (1) water use as reported to the state by individual water users to (2) metrics of water availability calculated from observed water monitoring networks. This paper focuses on determining whether this means of measuring water use is sufficient for proactive and sustainable management of water resources. The Potomac basin study area illustrates the point that, while state‐reported water use databases typically cover the largest individual water users, unreported water uses can cumulatively comprise a substantial portion of the overall water use. If left unaccounted for, the system is vulnerable to human demand exceeding supplies, with attendant detrimental effects to aquatic habitats and organisms, especially given the exacerbating effects of climate change on the variability of water supplies. Planners and managers are therefore encouraged to consider the full spectrum of water uses, regardless of state reporting requirements.
Tracheal tube introducer‐associated airway trauma: a systematic review
Authors: Boulton Adam J. , Smith Edward , Yasin Ambreen , Moreton Joseph , Mendonca Cyprian
Published: July 2024

Background

Tracheal tube introducers are recommended in airway management guidelines and are used increasingly as videolaryngoscopy becomes more widespread. This systematic review aimed to summarise the published literature concerning tracheal tube introducer‐associated airway trauma.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL databases were searched using pre‐determined criteria. Two authors independently assessed search results and performed data extraction and risk of bias assessments.

Results

We included 16 randomised controlled trials and five observational studies involving 10,797 patients. There was heterogeneity in patient characteristics, airway manipulation, and airway trauma definition and measurement. One study investigated hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy. The standard stylet was the most commonly reported introducer, followed by bougie and stylets with additional features such as video or lighted tip. Airway trauma resulted in low harm and most frequently involved injuries to the upper airway, followed by laryngeal and tracheobronchial injuries. Eighteen studies were comparative and reported a reduction in airway trauma incidence when an introducer was used, with the exception of the standard stylet. Median (IQR [range]) pooled incidence of airway trauma associated with standard stylets was 13.1% (4.2–31.4 [0.5–79.2])% and with bougies was 5.4% (0.4–49.9 [0.0–68.0])%. The risk of bias of included studies was variable and many randomised trials were found to be at high risk due to non‐robust measurement of the outcome.

Conclusions

Stylets might be associated with an increased risk of airway trauma compared with other devices or when no stylet was used, though the quality of evidence is modest. However, other introducers appear to be safe and reduce the risk of airway trauma.
Initiating male contraception methods
Authors: Wu Frederick C. W. , Lo Kirk
Published: July 2024

Non‐surgical (reversible) male contraception methods, when approved for general clinical application, should be made available to all interested men aged 18 50 years in good general health regardless of their semen parameters. In the preliminary workup, a complete personal and family history aimed at identifying specific conditions that may potentially increase the risks for adverse effects (associated with testosterone replacement) is advisable but a general or andrological examination is not required, unless indicated by the history. Baseline body weight, blood pressure and haemoglobin should be recorded for the purpose of future monitoring. While risks and benefits of vasectomy have been well established, appropriately nuanced patient counselling and assessment are essential for ensuring a satisfactory outcome of vasectomy.
Does the addition of perineal block enhance pain control after a haemorrhoidectomy? A prospective randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Markaryan Daniil , Garmanova Tatiana , Kazachenko Ekaterina , Lukianov Alexander , Markaryan Eduard , Agapov Mikhail
Published: July 2024

Background

Haemorrhoidectomy is associated with severe postoperative pain, a long rehabilitation, and QoL worsening for months. Most patients experience mild‐to‐moderate postoperative pain. We aimed to evaluate the intraoperative perineal block role for patients undergoing haemorrhoidectomy.

Methods

In this prospective randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, eligible patients with III–IV stage haemorrhoids were randomized to the experimental group (EG) with intraoperative perineal block and spinal anaesthesia and the control one (CG) only with spinal anaesthesia. During the postoperative period, the opioid consumption rate was evaluated as a primary endpoint, and the postoperative pain level according to VAS, systemic analgesics consumption, readmission, and complication rate, the timing of returning to work, patients' QoL, and overall satisfaction according to SF‐36 were evaluated as secondary endpoints.

Results

One hundred patients completed the study (48 in EG and 52 in CG). Patients of the EG had less postoperative pain intensity (P < 0.0001), required less opioid analgesia (P = 0.03), and had longer pain‐free postoperative periods (P = 0.0002). 90% of patients in the CG required additional NSAID injections for adequate analgesia compared with only 58% in the EG. The average hospital stays, complication rate, and average operation duration didn't reach clinical significance. General health evaluation according to the SF‐36 score and the median satisfaction rate was better in the EG (P < 0.001 and P = 0.012, respectively).

Conclusions

The administration of the perianal block is safe and effective and should be administered to appropriate patients undergoing anorectal surgery.
Beyond generic support: Contextual influences on careers of gender and sexuality diverse groups in higher education
Authors: Jiang Zhou , Riggs Damien W. , Wang Ying , Chapman Andrew , Mate Susan
Published: July 2024

Despite the emerging attention to career development for gender and/or sexuality diverse (GSD) students, the literature is largely limited to generic support, missing a specific focus on either careers or being GSD. Such a generic view about contextual influences makes it difficult to guide the design and implementation of concrete, feasible practices for supporting GSD students' careers. Extending the existing body of work, this study employed qualitative methods to explore more specific, nuanced contextual factors within the university setting that influence GSD students' career development. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 25 Australian university students who self‐identified as GSD. Our findings report seven major themes that could explain the influence of university contexts on the career development and experiences of GSD students. These themes include generic mentoring not always being useful, the negative effects of framing diversity as a “risk,” small things that can foster a sense of safety, the importance of designated areas and resources, the importance of advice on safe workplaces and being authentic at work, the importance of the visibility of key people, and the need for intersectional support. In addition to unpacking the influence of unique contextual features, these findings contribute to the extension of existing career frameworks such as the career self‐management model into GSD contexts. Our results also shed light on detailed, implementable practical solutions for universities, career counselors, and psychologists to support the career development of GSD students.
Letter: Critical appraisal of biologic therapy in early ulcerative colitis management—Addressing study limitations and the role of psychological resilience—Authors' reply
Authors: Strande Vibeke , Høivik Marte Lie , Kristensen Vendel A.
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Strande et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18097 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18156.
Child‐directed speech in a large sample of U.S. mothers with low income
Authors: Egan‐Dailey Shannon , Gennetian Lisa A. , Magnuson Katherine , Duncan Greg J. , Yoshikawa Hirokazu , Fox Nathan A. , Noble Kimberly G.
Published: July 2024

Research on early language input and socioeconomic status typically relies on correlations in small convenience samples. Using data from Baby's First Years, this paper assesses the causal impact of monthly, unconditional cash transfers on child‐directed speech and child vocalizations among a large, racially diverse sample of low‐income U.S. mothers and their 1‐year‐olds (N = 563; 48% girls; 2019–2020). The monthly, unconditional cash transfers did not impact mothers' child‐directed speech during a 10‐min at‐home play session (effect sizes range from −.08 to .02), though there was wide variability within this sample. Future work will assess the impact of the continued cash transfer on children's language input and development over time.
Paediatric thyroid disease
Authors: Cheetham Timothy , Wood Claire
Published: July 2024

The spectrum of thyroid disorders presenting to paediatricians is different to that seen by adult physicians. Referrals reflect cases detected by the neonatal screening programme for congenital hypothyroidism and many of the inherited defects of thyroid hormone generation or action will be manifest in early life. Autoimmune thyroid disease can be particularly challenging to manage in the young and the potential impact of thyroid status on neurodevelopment and schooling are key considerations throughout childhood and adolescence.
Effectiveness and mechanisms of combined use of antioxidant nutrients in protecting against oxidative stress‐induced neuronal loss and related neurological deficits
Authors: Wang Lu , Wei Yingjuan , Sun Zhenzhou , Tai Wenya , Li Hui , Yin Yaling , Jiang Lin‐Hua , Wang Jian‐Zhi
Published: July 2024

Background

Oxidative stress is a well‐known pathological factor driving neuronal loss and age‐related neurodegenerative diseases. Melatonin, coenzyme Q10 and lecithin are three common nutrients with an antioxidative capacity. Here, we examined the effectiveness of them administrated individually and in combination in protecting against oxidative stress‐induced neuronal death in vitro, and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and associated deficits in vivo.

Methods

Mouse neuroblastoma Neuro‐2a (N2a) cells were exposed with H2O2 for 6 h, and subsequently treated with melatonin, coenzyme Q10, and lecithin alone or in combination for further 24 h. Cell viability was assessed using the CCK‐8 assay. Eight‐week‐old male mice were intraperitoneally injected with D‐(+)‐galactose for 10 weeks and administrated with melatonin, coenzyme Q10, lecithin, or in combination for 5 weeks starting from the sixth week, followed by behavioral tests to assess the effectiveness in mitigating neurological deficits, and biochemical assays to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Exposure to H2O2 significantly reduced the viability of N2a cells and increased oxidative stress and tau phosphorylation, all of which were alleviated by treatment with melatonin, coenzyme Q10, lecithin alone, and, most noticeably, by combined treatment. Administration of mice with D‐(+)‐galactose‐induced oxidative stress and tau phosphorylation, brain aging, impairments in learning and memory, anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors, and such detrimental effects were mitigated by melatonin, coenzyme Q10, lecithin alone, and, most consistently, by combined treatment.

Conclusions

These results suggest that targeting oxidative stress via supplementation of antioxidant nutrients, particularly in combination, is a better strategy to alleviate oxidative stress‐mediated neuronal loss and brain dysfunction due to age‐related neurodegenerative conditions.
Ultrasound assessment of the distal resection margin during robotic rectal surgery
Authors: Giuliani Giuseppe , Matarazzo Francesco , Guerra Francesco , Benigni Roberto , Marino Michele Di , Coratti Andrea
Published: July 2024

Aim

Ensuring an adequate distal resection margin (DRM) is a key factor in achieving the gold standard in surgical treatment for rectal surgery. The aim of this article is to describe our surgical technique and the usefulness of intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) for evaluating the DRM during robotic rectal surgery (RRS).

Method

Prospective data on five consecutive patients with rectal cancer who underwent RRS between January 2023 and December 2023 were collected. IOUS was utilized to evaluate the DRM in all patients.

Results

The mean time for the IOUS examination ranged from 5 to 10 min. There were no intraoperative complications or conversions to open surgery. The median length of hospital stay was 6.4 days (±1.67 days). During hospitalization, one patient experienced a Grade II complication according to the Clavien–Dindo classification, specifically postoperative ileus. Furthermore, one patient experienced a delayed anastomotic fistula, which was conservatively treated without readmission. At definitive pathology, the median distance of the tumour from the DRM was 29 mm (±1.41 mm) and all patients had an R0 resection.

Conclusion

IOUS is a reproducible and helpful modality for identifying the distal margin of the cutting line during robotic resection of rectal cancers. It does not affect the operating time compared with other methods and could be an alternative method for assessment of the DRM during RRS.
Evaluation of the diagnostic role of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound for peripheral pulmonary lesions
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Li , Zhang Qian , Wang Yan , Xu Chun Hua
Published: July 2024

Objective

To evaluate the predictive value of echo features of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (RP‐EBUS) in the differential diagnosis of malignant and benign 1esions.

Methods

The clinical data of 336 patients with peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) undergoing RP‐EBUS were analyzed in order to evaluate the predictive value of the three EBUS echo features including continuous margin, absence of a linear‐discrete air bronchogram, and heterogeneous in pulmonary lesions. The sensitivity and specificity for each echoic feature or in combination in diagnosing malignancy or benignity were determined.

Results

336 cases of PPLs including 216 cases of malignant lesions and 120 cases of benign lesions. The sensitivity and specificity of the continuous margin to the diagnosis of malignant lesions were 86.11% and 17.50%. The sensitivity and specificity of the absence of a linear‐discrete air bronchogram to the diagnosis of malignant lesions were 66.67% and 57.50%, and the positive predictive value was 73.85%. The sensitivity and specificity of heterogeneity to the diagnosis of malignant lesions were 65.28% and 72.50%, and the positive predictive value was 81.03%. The combination of heterogeneous and absence of a linear‐discrete air bronchogram could improve the diagnostic specificity to 87.50%, and the positive predictive value to 80.77%.

Conclusion

The two EBUS echo features of heterogeneous and absence of a linear‐discrete air bronchogram have predictive value for PPLs, especially in the presence of two features the pulmonary lesions should be highly suspected malignant tumors.
Incorporating projected climate conditions to map future riparian refugia
Authors: Szcodronski Kimberly E. , Wade Alisa A. , Burton Sarah E. , Hossack Blake R.
Published: July 2024

Identifying areas expected to remain buffered from climate change and maintain biodiversity and ecological function (i.e., climate refugia) is important for climate adaptation planning. As structurally diverse transitional zones between terrestrial and aquatic environments, riparian areas are often biological hotspots and provide critical corridors for species movement, particularly in arid and semi‐arid regions. In our study region in the western and central USA, identifying riparian areas that could serve as climate refugia is a priority for wildlife managers. We mapped areas with connected riparian habitats that, based on landscape diversity and projected changes in summer temperatures and landscape runoff, are expected to serve as climate refugia. To incorporate uncertainty and balance the need for near‐ and long‐term planning, we mapped potential refugia for 2 future time periods (2040–2069, 2070–2099) based on 2 climate models that represented divergent but plausible climate outcomes. The approach we developed is not constrained by physiology or behavior of target species and can be used to identify areas expected to fare comparatively well under a wide range of future climate scenarios. Our approach can also be used to identify areas where restoration could increase riparian connectedness and climate resilience.
Assessing the net financial benefits of employing digital endpoints in clinical trials
Authors: DiMasi Joseph A. , Dirks Abigail , Smith Zachary , Valentine Sarah , Goldsack Jennifer C. , Metcalfe Thomas , Grewal Upinder , Leyens Lada , Conradi Ute , Karlin Daniel , Maloney Lesley , Getz Kenneth A. , Hartog Bert
Published: July 2024

In the last few decades, developers of new drugs, biologics, and devices have increasingly leveraged digital health technologies (DHTs) to assess clinical trial digital endpoints. To our knowledge, a comprehensive assessment of the financial net benefits of digital endpoints in clinical trials has not been conducted. We obtained data from the Digital Medicine Society (DiMe) Library of Digital Endpoints and the US clinical trials registry, ClinicalTrials.gov. The benefit metrics are changes in trial phase duration and enrollment associated with the use of digital endpoints. The cost metric was obtained from an industry survey of the costs of including digital endpoints in clinical trials. We developed an expected net present value (eNPV) model of the cash flows for new drug development and commercialization to assess financial value. The value measure is the increment in eNPV that occurs when digital endpoints are employed. We also calculated a return on investment (ROI) as the ratio of the estimated increment in eNPV to the mean digital endpoint implementation cost. For phase II trials, the increase in eNPV varied from $2.2 million to $3.3 million, with ROIs between 32% and 48% per indication. The net benefits were substantially higher for phase III trials, with the increase in eNPV varying from $27 million to $40 million, with ROIs that were four to six times the investment. The use of digital endpoints in clinical trials can provide substantial extra value to sponsors developing new drugs, with high ROIs.
Social sustainability discourse in cohesion policy: A critical review of Interreg Europe 2021–2027
Authors: Okrožnik Daša , Kopić Peter , Vodeb Ksenija
Published: July 2024

Motivation

As a leading European funding programme aimed at enhancing the cohesion of cross‐border regions and countries, Interreg plays a significant role in fostering regional development. Sustainability, as one of the programme's central themes, covers a large portion of the objective focus, aiming for sustainable development. Although the guidelines contain implications for social sustainability, the programme demonstrates that the concept is poorly understood, which can be seen in project implementation.

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the conceptual framework and development of the discourse on social sustainability in the context of tourism and cohesion strategy, specifically within the Interreg programme. Thus, this article examines the social sustainability discourse within Interreg Europe's implications for cross‐border tourism development.

Approach and methods

The study is concerned with the construction of the social sustainability discourse within cohesion policy in the broader European region. In particular, this study seeks to answer the question “how does Interreg structure the discourse on social sustainability in relation to tourism?” Our research is based on a critical review of the literature, followed by a discourse analysis of the core documents of Interreg Europe 2021–2027: the Programme Manual and the Cooperation Programme document.

Findings

In conclusion, three key themes emerge from the discourse on social sustainability in tourism: (1) Interreg's recognition of tourism‐dependent regions; (2) a dominant presence of the economic and environmental pillars of sustainability; and (3) an ambiguous characterization of the social pillar and its objectives. As a result, we confirm the significance of social sustainability and clear policy formulation for the development of sustainable tourism.

Policy implications

This article warns against imprecise project objectives and the use of overly simplified and ambiguous terminology, while emphasizing the importance of social sustainability in the context of sustainable tourism development.
Does subsidizing seed help farmers? Nepal's rice seed subsidies
Authors: Gautam Shriniwas , Rahut Dil Bahadur , Guzman Danice Brown , Dangol Prabin , K.C. Dilli Bahadur , Beshir AbduRahman , Choudhary Dyutiman
Published: July 2024

Motivation

Improved seed adoption can increase yield, enhance food security, improve livelihoods, and reduce poverty. Although many governments in the global South use seed subsidies to achieve these outcomes, the success and efficiency of input subsidies is subject to debate.

Most smallholders in Nepal lack information and finance to access improved technologies, including improved seeds. To address this, Nepal's universal seed subsidy programme (SSP) began in 2012. SSP offers participants up to 50% off the price of rice seed from improved varieties.

Purpose

We evaluate the impact of SSP on farmer participants five years after its inception. Until now, the programme had not been evaluated.

Approach and Methods

We compare rice‐growing households receiving subsidized seeds (treatment group) with those that do not (control group). We match the two groups using propensity scoring. We compare rice yield per hectare for the two groups, looking at aggregate and heterogeneous treatment effects. Primary data come from a 2019 survey of 157 treated and 173 control farm households in the Terai lowlands.

Findings

We find no evidence of SSP impact on rice yield in the aggregate. One potential explanation is that the programme tended to promote seed of a long‐standing open‐pollinated variety (OPV), rather than newer, higher‐yielding OPVs and hybrids. Examination of heterogenous impacts, however, shows higher yields among treated households who were either on low incomes or remote from agro‐dealers and agricultural extension offices.

Policy implications

Given the lack of impact on yields of SSP, sustaining the programme in the same form is neither advisable nor justified. We suggest targeting households on low incomes and in remote areas; subsidizing only the more recent high‐yielding varieties; and considering cost‐effective approaches to administer the programme, such as seed vouchers. To improve last‐mile seed delivery, SSP needs to engage more with private seed providers and be more transparent in its operations. Results from this study may have broader implications for other long‐standing agricultural subsidies in Nepal and other developing countries with universal subsidy programmes.
First report of leaf spot caused by Neopestalotiopsis and Calonectria species on Areca ipot seedlings in Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Mastrili Romana Alyssa D. , Ibarra Caballero Jorge R. , Malabrigo Pastor L. , Stewart Jane E. , Ata Jessa P.
Published: July 2024

Areca ipot, a Philippine endemic species, is categorized as endangered primarily due to habitat loss. A severe outbreak of a new leaf spot disease was observed on A. ipot seedlings in a nursery. Morphological and molecular features of isolates from diseased samples were identified as Neopestalotiopsis sp. and Calonectria sp. The pathogenicity of the isolates was confirmed by fulfilling Koch's postulates. This is the first report of Neopestalotiopsis sp. and Calonectria sp. causing leaf spot on A. ipot in the Philippines.
Neural rhythms of narcissism: Facets of narcissism are associated with different neural sources in resting‐state EEG
Authors: Leota Josh , Faulkner Paige , Mazidi Shafa , Simpson David , Nash Kyle
Published: July 2024

Trait narcissism is characterized by significant heterogeneity across individuals. Despite advances in the conceptualization of narcissism, including the increasing recognition that narcissism is a multidimensional construct, the sources of this heterogeneity remain poorly understood. Here, we used a neural trait approach to help better understand “how,” and shed light on “why,” individuals vary in facets of trait narcissism. Participants (N = 58) first completed personality measures, including the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), and then in a second session sat passively while resting‐state electroencephalography (rs‐EEG) was recorded. We then regressed source‐localized rs‐EEG activity on the distinct facets of narcissism: Grandiose Exhibitionism (GE), Entitlement/Exploitativeness (EE), and Leadership/Authority (LA). Results revealed that each facet was associated with different (though sometimes overlapping) neural sources. Specifically, GE was associated with reduced activation in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC). EE was associated with reduced activation in the DMPFC and right lateral PFC. LA was associated with increased activation in the left anterior temporal cortex. These findings support the idea that trait narcissism is a multidimensional construct undergirded by individual differences in neural regions related to social cognition (the DMPFC), self‐regulation (right lateral PFC), and self‐referential processing (left anterior temporal cortex).
Multi‐omics analyses highlight molecular differences between clinical and neuropathological diagnoses in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lüleci Hatice Büşra , Jones Attila , Çakır Tunahan
Published: July 2024

Both clinical diagnosis and neuropathological diagnosis are commonly used in literature to categorize individuals as Alzheimer's disease (AD) or non‐AD in omics analyses. Whether these diagnostic strategies result in distinct profiles of molecular abnormalities is poorly understood. Here, we analysed one of the most commonly used AD omics datasets in the literature from the Religious Orders Study and Memory and Aging Project (ROSMAP) cohort and compared the two diagnosis strategies using brain transcriptome and metabolome by grouping individuals as non‐AD and AD according to clinical or neuropathological diagnosis separately. Differentially expressed genes, associated pathways related with AD hallmarks and AD‐related genes showed that the categorization based on neuropathological diagnosis more accurately reflects the disease state at the molecular level than the categorization based on clinical diagnosis. We further identified consensus biomarker candidates between the two diagnosis strategies such as 5‐hydroxylysine, sphingomyelin and 1‐myristoyl‐2‐palmitoyl‐GPC as metabolite biomarkers and sphingolipid metabolism as a pathway biomarker, which could be robust AD biomarkers since they are independent of diagnosis strategies. We also used consensus AD and consensus non‐AD individuals between the two diagnostic strategies to train a machine‐learning based model, which we used to classify the individuals who were cognitively normal but diagnosed as AD based on neuropathological diagnosis (asymptomatic AD individuals). The majority of these individuals were classified as consensus AD patients for both omics data types. Our study provides a detailed characterization of both diagnostic strategies in terms of the association of the corresponding multi‐omics profiles with AD.
The Puzzle of Empty Formal Indications: On the ‘Deferred’ Meaning of Heidegger's Language
Authors: Zoller David
Published: July 2024

Heidegger's notion of philosophical concepts as “formal indications” is rightly viewed as a crucial development. The idea of formal indication is partly intended to answer concerns that phenomenology objectivizes conscious life. Formal indication responds—in what would become a signature feature of much of Heidegger's early work—by setting up a unique dependency of the meaning of phenomenological concepts on their “enactment” in the first‐personal life of the investigator or reader. Commentators have appropriately wondered whether this move succeeds. Yet relatively little emphasis has been placed on the potential problem of underdetermination: whether this model of deferring meaning to “enactment” leaves the reader with a sufficient understanding of the term that they know what to enact and (hopefully) gain some positive self‐understanding through it. This problem becomes more or less acute depending on how we model the “deferred meaning” of formal indication. Here I study candidate models of “deferred meaning,” including those prominent in the literature, to determine whether any are suitable to model the meaning‐structure of formal indication and stave off the underdetermination problem.
Preoperative and intraoperative tirofiban during endovascular thrombectomy in large vessel occlusion stroke due to large artery atherosclerosis
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Huang Shuhan , Li Wei , Yang Yi , Wu Ya , Ma Xue , Nie Ximing , Jin Wangsheng , Liu Chengchun , Li Xiaoshu , Xu Yaning , Dong Jun , Liao Yisi , Sun Binlu , Han Wenjun , Zhao Qing , Chi Huaqiao , Wang Yanjiang , Liu Liping , Zhang Meng
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of preoperative versus intraoperative tirofiban in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) due to large artery atherosclerosis (LAA).

Methods

This is a retrospective multicenter cohort study based on the RESCUE‐RE (Registration Study for Critical Care of Acute Ischemic Stroke After Recanalization) trial enrolling patients with anterior circulation LVO classified as LAA within 24 h of onset. Patients were divided into three groups: preoperative tirofiban (PT), intraoperative tirofiban (IT), and no tirofiban (NT). Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance baseline characteristics. The efficacy outcomes included 90‐day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score = 0–2) and early partial recanalization (EPR; defined as a modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score = 1–2a). The safety outcomes included symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).

Results

A total of 104 matched triplets were obtained through PSM. Compared with NT, PT increased 90‐day functional independence (60.8% vs. 42.3%, p = 0.008) and EPR (42.7% vs. 18.3%, p < 0.001) rate, with a tendency to increase the asymptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (aICH) proportion (28.8% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.072). Compared with IT, PT had a higher 90‐day functional independence (60.8% vs. 45.2%, p = 0.025) and EPR (42.7% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.001) rate, with no significant difference in sICH (14.4% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.122) and aICH (28.8% vs. 21.2%, p = 0.200). Compared with NT, IT had a lower 90‐day mortality rate (9.6% vs. 24.0%, p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Tirofiban shows good adjuvant therapy potential in acute ischemic stroke–LVO due to LAA patients. PT is associated with higher rates of EPR and better therapeutic efficacy. In addition, EPR may be a potential way to improve prognosis.
Genetic evidence of a hybrid swarm between Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) and domestic goat (C. hircus)
Authors: Brambilla Alice , Zehnder Noel , Bassano Bruno , Rossi Luca , Grossen Christine
Published: July 2024

Improving the understanding of the causes and effects of anthropogenic hybridization is fundamental to ensure species conservation, particularly in the case of hybridization between wild species and their domestic relatives. Knowledge is missing for many species also because of a lack of appropriate tools for hybrid identification. Here, coupling genotype and phenotype analysis, we carried out an extensive investigation of ongoing hybridization in Alpine ibex Capra ibex, a mountain ungulate of conservation concern from a genetic perspective. By genotyping 63 diagnostic and 465 neutral SNPs, 20 suspected hybrids and 126 Alpine ibex without suspicious phenotype, representing 8 populations across a major part of the species distribution, we found evidence for ongoing hybridization between Alpine ibex and domestic goat. We identified different levels of hybridization including backcrosses into both Alpine ibex and domestic goat. Our results suggest a lack of reproductive barriers between the two species and good survival and reproductive success of the hybrids. Hybridization was locally intense, like a hybrid swarm, but not spread across the rest of the species distribution. Most of the hybrids were discovered in two locations in the north‐west of Italy, while random sampling of individuals from different areas did not provide evidence of recent hybridization. Our method, based on amplicon sequencing of 63 diagnostic SNPs specifically developed for this purpose, allowed us to identify hybrids and backcrosses up to the fourth to fifth generations and was suitable for genetic samples of different quality, although with varying levels of certainty regarding the exact number of generations passed since hybridization. Based on the paired analysis of genotype and phenotype, we provide guidelines for the first identification of hybrids in the field and suggest a procedure for the reliable identification of hybrids.
Theorizing Multiple Geographies: Interrelations of Space and Multiplicity in Geographical Research
Authors: Liodaki Danai , Rekhviashvili Lela , Lang Thilo , Apostolopoulou Elia
Published: July 2024

Starting from the observation that the notion of “multiple geographies” has gained considerable traction in geographical research in the past years while its theoretical foundations have often remained abstract, in this paper we contribute toward elaboration of multiple geographies as a research perspective, recognizing its potential as a valuable framework for analyzing divergent spatial relations. Initially, we provide an overview of the diverse applications of multiple geographies through a review of relevant literature, focusing on papers within the realms of political geographies that mention the term in their title or abstract. Subsequently, we categorize these papers thematically, identifying three main theoretical strains: post‐colonial geographies, uneven geographical development, and feminist geographies. We then propose a theoretical scaffold for navigating the complexities of multiple geographies by engaging with broader discussions on plurality and multiplicity in relation to the aforementioned strains. Finally, we synthesize the insights garnered from this analysis, exploring the potential of a multiple geographies research perspective to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the diverse ways in which space is produced and experienced. Our contribution aims to enrich ongoing debates within human geography on how space can be redefined in more relational, decolonial, socially just, feminist, and diverse ways, opening pathways for pluralistic geographical imaginations.
Teacher wellbeing and teaching excellence in higher education: Exploring the interplay through the lens of the PERMA framework
Authors: Golab Anna , Barratt Tom , Yong Jaime , Afroz Tanzim
Published: July 2024

Recognising the pivotal role of teacher wellbeing in fostering teaching excellence, this paper explores the intricate relationships in the context of higher education. Employing an abductive, qualitative methodology and expanding the use of the PERMA framework to in the realm of higher education, this paper investigates the associations between teachers' perceptions of excellence to five elements of wellbeing: positive emotions (P), engagement (E), relationships (R), meaning (M) and accomplishment (A). Drawing insights from a case study of an Australian business school, the findings of this paper reveal dynamic interactions among these elements. Contextual variations give rise to virtuous or vicious cycles, allowing for the facilitation or degradation of both teacher wellbeing and teaching excellence. This underscores the interplay between the dimensions of teaching quality and wellbeing of educators in higher education, shedding light on the potential cyclical influences that can either bolster or undermine the symbiotic relationship between teacher wellbeing and excellence.
Combined peripheral blood monocyte count and white blood cell count as a guide for successful one‐day autologous peripheral blood stem cell collection
Authors: Watanaboonyongcharoen Phandee , Lorucharoen Nattarat , Wudhikarn Kitsada , Bunworasate Udomsak , Chanswangphuwana Chantiya , Rojnuckarin Ponlapat
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) are the most common source of stem cell transplantation, which depends on an adequate number of CD34+ cells. Although pre‐apheresis CD34+ cell count is a standard guide for the collection, it is not always available. This study aimed to evaluate complete blood count parameters for predicting successful one‐day autologous PBSC collection.

Methods

Data from the patients who underwent autologous PBSC collection at a tertiary care hospital were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

There were 123 patients (185 leukapheresis procedures). Successful PBSC collection (CD34+ cells ≥4.0 × 106 cells/kg) was obtained in 85 patients (69.1%), of which 55 (44.7%) were successfully obtained on the first day. The median CD34+ collection efficiency was 44.1%. The mean platelet loss during apheresis was 39.9%. The adverse event rate was 18.9%. Patients in whom PBSCs were collected within one day were less likely to experience adverse effects related to leukapheresis. Pre‐apheresis CD34+ cells ≥10 cells/μLand combined white blood cell (WBC) counts ≥5 × 109/L and/or monocyte ≥10% were independently associated with the successful one‐day PBSC collection (adjusted odds ratio 24.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.30–109.10, p < 0.001; and 6.94, 95% CI 1.35–35.79, p = 0.021, respectively). Only pre‐apheresis CD34+ cells had a strong correlation with the total stem cell yield.

Conclusions

To reduce the complication of leukapheresis, the combined pre‐apheresis WBC ≥5 × 109/L and/or monocyte ≥10% is a practical parameter to initiate a successfully one‐day PBSC collection with or without pre‐apheresis CD34+ cell results.