bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast current-induced skyrmion motion in synthetic antiferromagnets
Authors: Pham Van Tuong , Sisodia Naveen , Di Manici Ilaria , Urrestarazu-Larrañaga Joseba , Bairagi Kaushik , Pelloux-Prayer Johan , Guedas Rodrigo , Buda-Prejbeanu Liliana D. , Auffret Stéphane , Locatelli Andrea , Menteş Tevfik Onur , Pizzini Stefania , Kumar Pawan , Finco Aurore , Jacques Vincent , Gaudin Gilles , Boulle Olivier
Published: April 2024

Magnetic skyrmions are topological magnetic textures that hold great promise as nanoscale bits of information in memory and logic devices. Although room-temperature ferromagnetic skyrmions and their current-induced manipulation have been demonstrated, their velocity has been limited to about 100 meters per second. In addition, their dynamics are perturbed by the skyrmion Hall effect, a motion transverse to the current direction caused by the skyrmion topological charge. Here, we show that skyrmions in compensated synthetic antiferromagnets can be moved by current along the current direction at velocities of up to 900 meters per second. This can be explained by the cancellation of the net topological charge leading to a vanishing skyrmion Hall effect. Our results open an important path toward the realization of logic and memory devices based on the fast manipulation of skyrmions in tracks.
Reversal of quantized Hall drifts at noninteracting and interacting topological boundaries
Authors: Zhu Zijie , Gächter Marius , Walter Anne-Sophie , Viebahn Konrad , Esslinger Tilman
Published: April 2024

The transport properties of gapless edge modes at boundaries between topologically distinct domains are of fundamental and technological importance. We experimentally studied long-distance quantized Hall drifts in a harmonically confined topological pump of ultracold fermionic atoms. We found that quantized drifts halt and reverse their direction when the atoms reach a critical slope of the confining potential, revealing the presence of a topological boundary. The drift reversal corresponded to a band transfer between a band with Chern number
C
= +1 and another with
C
= –1 through a gapless edge mode, in agreement with the bulk-edge correspondence for noninteracting particles. Nonzero repulsive Hubbard interactions led to the emergence of an additional edge in the system through a mechanism in which pairs of fermions are split.
Selected morphological, cardiovascular and neuromuscular risk profiles among asymptomatic sedentary men performing Islamic prayer
Authors: Jalal Abdul Hamid , Noorbhai Habib
Published: April 2024

Background

This study investigated morphological, cardiovascular and neuromuscular profiles among asymptomatic sedentary men performing the Islamic prayer (Salaah). This study emphasised the need for an inquiry into unique sedentary populations who perform Islamic prayer as physical activity.

Methods

An experimental study was conducted among male participants (n=20). Resting heart rate (RHR), resting systolic blood pressure (SBP), resting diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body mass index (BMI) and percentage body fat (BF%) were measured before a timed Salaah simulation activity. Electromyography (EMG) of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) was measured for maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and two movement transitions of the Islamic prayer (Salaah). Bilateral manual muscle strength (MMT) testing was also completed. Inferential and descriptive statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (IBM, V.27.0). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to determine statistically significant relationships between variables. The level of significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

Negative correlations between post-Salaah SBP and MVC average (r=−0.19; p=0.42) and between the post-Salaah DBP and the MVC average (r=−0.40; p=0.08) were not significant. Weak correlations were found between the MVC average and the right (r=0.14; p=0.56) and left (r=0.18; p=0.44) quadriceps femoris MMT values.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that individuals who performed the Salaah were reasonably healthy in terms of BMI, BF%, RHR, resting SBP, resting DBP, MMT and MVC average values. The study further demonstrated the electromyographic activity of the VMO muscle through the Salaah for two movement transitions of the prayer. Verily, this demonstrates preliminary evidence of EMG activity for the VMO muscle in those who perform the Salaah.
Charged gravastars with conformal motion in the Finslerian space-time
Authors: Sanjay T. , Narasimhamurthy S. K. , Nekouee Z. , Manjunatha H. M.
Published: April 2024

In this article, we investigate the charged gravastar under conformal motion with the background of Finsler geometry. Mazur and Mottola pioneered the concept of the gravastar (gravitational vacuum star) for the first time. This vacuum object consists of three distinct regions, that is, (i) interior de Sitter region, (ii) thin shell consisting of ultrarelativistic stiff, and (iii) exterior vacuum Schwarzschild region. The nature of these regions can be analyzed by considering different equations of state parameters. We have studied various physical features of the gravastar, such as length, energy, entropy, stability, and the adiabatic index, both graphically and analytically within the Finslerian framework. Also, we have obtained the exact and non-singular solution for the gravastar model.
On the graded injective hull of R/𝔭 in prime characteristic
Authors: Patle Aarti , Singh Jyoti
Published: April 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a polynomial ring in [Formula: see text] indeterminates with coefficients in a field [Formula: see text] of characteristic [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be the ring of differential operators over [Formula: see text] We consider [Formula: see text] as a nonmaximal homogeneous prime ideal, and [Formula: see text] as a graded injective hull of [Formula: see text] In this paper, we prove the generalized Eulerian property for the graded injective hull [Formula: see text] as a [Formula: see text]-module in positive characteristic. Furthermore, we show that the minimal injective resolution of [Formula: see text]-finite module ends in an object which is the direct sum of indecomposable in graded case using some finiteness properties in prime characteristic.
The Epidemiology of COVID-19 Vaccine-Induced Myocarditis
Authors: Costa Christos , Moniati Foteini
Published: April 2024

Background. In December 2019, the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) led to the COVID-19 pandemic, with millions of deaths worldwide. Vaccine breakthroughs in late 2020 resulted in the authorization of COVID-19 vaccines. While these vaccines have demonstrated efficacy, evidence from vaccine safety monitoring systems around the globe supported a causal association between COVID-19 vaccines, in particular those using mRNA technology, i.e., Moderna’s mRNA-1273 and Pfizer-BioNTech’s BNT162b2, and myocarditis. Objective. This paper aims to investigate the epidemiology of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis, including age, ethnicity, and gender associations with these vaccines. It also discusses the immunopathophysiological mechanisms of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis and outlines principles of diagnosis, clinical presentation, and management. Methods. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Queen Mary University of London Library Services databases. Search terms included “myocarditis,” “coronavirus disease 2019,” “SARS-CoV-2,” “mRNA Covid-19 vaccines,” “Covid vaccine-associated myocarditis,” “epidemiology,” “potential mechanisms,” “myocarditis diagnosis,” and “myocarditis management.” Results. While the definite mechanism of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis remains ambiguous, potential mechanisms include molecular mimicry of spike proteins and activation of the adaptive immune response with dysregulated cytokine expression. Male predominance in COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis may be attributed to sex hormones, variations in inflammatory reactions, coagulation states based on gender, and female-specific protective factors. Moreover, an analysis of diagnostic and management strategies reveals a lack of consensus on acute patient presentation management. Conclusion. In contrast to viral infections that stand as the predominant etiological factor for myocarditis with more severe consequences, the mRNA COVID-19 vaccination elicits a mild and self-limiting manifestation of the condition. There is currently insufficient evidence to confirm the definite underlying mechanism of COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis. Further research is needed to develop preventive and therapeutic solutions in this context.
Overview of Solar Photovoltaic MPPT Methods: A State of the Art on Conventional and Artificial Intelligence Control Techniques
Authors: Mazumdar Debabrata , Sain Chiranjit , Biswas Pabitra Kumar , Sanjeevikumar P. , Khan Baseem
Published: April 2024

Due to their inherent ability and environmentally friendly nature, renewable energy sources are the only real option for producing pollution-free energy in the modern era. Solar energy is one of the best possibilities in this family for supplying civilization with the power and energy it needs. Researchers can efficiently boost a PV panel’s efficiency by using the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) approach to extract the most power from the panel and send it to the load. The authors of this study examined and surveyed the sequential advancement of solar PV cell research from one decade to the next, and they elaborated on the upcoming trends and behaviours. Many maximum power point tracking algorithms (MPPTs) that are employed in photovoltaic systems (PVSs) that function under both uniform and partial shade situations are structurally summarized in this work. Well-written descriptions of the features of photovoltaic modules are followed by a variety of effective control strategies, including both AI-based and traditional controllers. In addition, appropriate knowledge of the various controllers is essential when the PV system is exposed to partial shade, keeping in mind the different control systems’ classifications in this situation. A thorough analysis of several soft computing-based techniques is also included, as well as many classical controller-based PV systems. First, well-developed traditional MPPT methods are used, followed by artificial intelligence-based MPPT approaches. Later, a thorough comparison of the various MPPT-controlling approaches is established. For PV systems operating under partial shade conditions (PSCs), the advantages and disadvantages of the various MPPT techniques are outlined, contrasted, and assessed. Future research directions for MPPT are also being investigated. A collection of several datasets pertaining to various control processes that were gleaned from various research articles has also been presented. Researchers working on PV-based MPPT and those working in the sectors of renewable energy production and environmentally sustainable development would be very interested in the findings of this review study.
Association between Metabolic Reprogramming and Immune Regulation in Digestive Tract Tumors
Authors: Liu Jiafeng , Wang Tianxiao , Zhang Wenxin , Huang Yuxin , Wang Xinhai , Li Qunyi
Published: April 2024

Background: The cancers of the digestive tract, including colorectal cancer (CRC), gastric cancer, and esophageal cancer, are part of the most common cancers as well as one of the most important leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Summary: Despite the emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1) in the past decade, offering renewed optimism in cancer treatment, only a fraction of patients derive benefit from these therapies. This limited efficacy may stem from tumor heterogeneity and the impact of metabolic reprogramming on both tumor cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The metabolic reprogramming of glucose, lipids, amino acids, and other nutrients represents a pivotal hallmark of cancer, serving to generate energy, reducing equivalent and biological macromolecule, thereby fostering tumor proliferation and invasion. Significantly, the metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells can orchestrate changes within the TME, rendering patients unresponsive to immunotherapy. Key Messages: In this review, we predominantly encapsulate recent strides on metabolic reprogramming among digestive tract cancer, especially CRC, in the TME with a focus on how these alterations influence anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, we deliberate on potential strategies to address these abnormities in metabolic pathways and the viability of combined therapy within the realm of anti-cancer immunotherapy.
Complement-Mediated Thrombotic Microangiopathy after Kidney Transplant: Should Treatment with C5 Inhibitor Be Lifelong?
Authors: Musalem Pilar , Pedreros-Rosales Cristian , Müller-Ortiz Hans , Gutierrez-Navarro Carlos , Carpio J. Daniel
Published: April 2024

Complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (CM-TMA) is a rare and life-threatening complication that can occur in kidney transplant recipients, with various potential triggers including immunosuppressive medications. The optimal management and duration of treatment with C5 inhibitors (C5i) for CM-TMA in this patient population remain areas of ongoing investigation. We present the case of a 38-year-old female with a history of IgA nephropathy who underwent preemptive living-related kidney transplantation and subsequently developed CM-TMA 7 years post-transplant. Treatment with ravulizumab led to a rapid hematologic response and stabilized platelet counts. Serial measurements of complement functional tests and clinical stability guided the discontinuation of C5i therapy. The case highlights the complexity of managing CM-TMA in kidney transplant recipients, particularly in determining the appropriate duration of C5i therapy. The absence of an established protocol for discontinuation necessitates a personalized approach based on clinical and laboratory stability, absence of complement gene variants, and serial complement functional tests. Further prospective investigations are warranted to define the optimal strategies for monitoring and safely discontinuing C5i therapy in this unique patient population. This case underscores the importance of individualized care in the management of CM-TMA post-kidney transplantation, offering insights into potential criteria for therapy discontinuation.
EFFICIENCY OF FERMENTED SEAWEED EXTRACT AS FOLIAR FERTILIZER AT VARYING FREQUENCY AND CONCENTRATION IN PEANUT (Arachis hypogaea L.) PRODUCTION
Authors: Bangi Juliet , Sheirene M. Marajuli Fatima
Published: April 2024

Fermented seaweed extract (FSE) was used as fertilizer in peanut production at MSU Sulu –BARMM, Philippines. The experiment was set up in a 3 x 5 factorial in split-plot randomized complete block design (RCBD), with the main plot (A) as the frequency of the fertilizer applied - once a week, twice a week, and once a month while, the sub-plot (B) as the concentration at 5, 10, 15, and 20%. The application of fermented seaweed extract significantly influenced the growth parameters and yield responses in peanut production. The treatment combinations of once- and twice-a-week application of 5-10% fermented seaweed extract provided the best results in peanut growth and yield. FSE applied twice a week at 5% concentration gave the highest yield of 2.49 tons per hectare. Peanut applied with FSE once a week at a 5% concentration gave the lowest cost of expenses and the highest return on investment of 179%.
RECENT COLLECTION OF THE POISONOUS MUSHROOM, Clarkeinda trachodes (Berk.) FOR INDONESIA
Authors: Permana Putra Ivan , Nurhayat Oktan Dwi , Mahardika Wahyu AJi , Sari Okta Yulia
Published: April 2024

Clarkeinda trachodes is an interesting agaric and has been acknowledged as one of the poisonous mushrooms worldwide. This species has mentioned to be found in tropical regions of Asia, including Indonesia. However, no clear record has been found regarding the primary information and herbarium collection of this species in Indonesia. During our regular mushroom foraging at IPB University campus forest Indonesia, the basidiomata of Clarkeinda was encountered. The current study aimed to confirm the taxonomical position of our specimens based on morphological and molecular evidence. Fresh basidomata was observed on the macro- and micromorphological features. The molecular analysis and phylogenetic tree construction were done based on ITS 1/2 sequence. The combination of morphological and molecular evidence confirmed our specimen as C. trachodes. Morphologically, Clarkeinda trachodes BO24637 can be determined by a large basidiocarp of Agaricales, prominent pellicle on disc pileus, notable ring, reddish brown context and stipe when injured, and truncate apex of basidiospores. The BLAST result showed that our specimen has a high similarity to C. trachodes as the top hits. In addition, the phylogenetic tree constructed by ITS sequence committed specimen BO24637 as C. trachodes with 100% BS value. The current study resolves a clear and accessible document of C. trachodes in Indonesia. In addition, we provided the morphological and molecular information as well as herbarium collection of C. trachodes in Indonesia, which can be used for future study of this species.
Role of the Lymphatics in Cardiac Disease
Authors: Cooper Susanna T.E. , Lokman Adam B. , Riley Paul R.
Published: April 2024

Cardiovascular diseases remain the largest cause of death worldwide with recent evidence increasingly attributing the development and progression of these diseases to an exacerbated inflammatory response. As a result, significant research is now focused on modifying the immune environment to prevent the disease progression. This in turn has highlighted the lymphatic system in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases owing, in part, to its established function in immune cell surveillance and trafficking. In this review, we highlight the role of the cardiac lymphatic system and its potential as an immunomodulatory therapeutic target in selected cardiovascular diseases.
Description of a new genus of North and Central American planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) with fourteen new species
Authors: YANEGA DOUGLAS , GOEMANS GEERT , DAM MATTHEW VAN , GÓMEZ-MARCO FRANCESC , HODDLE MARK
Published: April 2024

The fulgorid name Alphina glauca (Metcalf) has been used erroneously since its inception to refer to a primarily southeastern U.S. species described originally as Calyptoproctus marmoratus Spinola. Additionally, at least three undescribed species from the Southwest have been incorrectly identified as A. glauca. The holotype of A. glauca has not been located. Since A. glauca is presently used to refer to multiple species, a neotype is designated which places A. glauca into synonymy with Calyptoproctus marmoratus. We establish a new genus, Scaralina, into which it is placed, giving the new combination Scaralina marmorata (Spinola), along with three southwestern, one Texan, and ten Mesoamerican taxa, named here as new species: S. aethrinsula, S. chapina, S. cristata, S. durango, S. gigantea, S. hawksi, S. metcalfi, S. monzoni, S. obfusca, S. obrienae, S. orientalis, S. rileyi, S. sullivani, and S. veracruzensis. Additionally, one new species of Scaralis in a new subgenus, Scaralis (Alphinoides) inbio, is described from Costa Rica and Guatemala. The limited information available suggests these insects feed on oaks (Quercus). The single defining putative synapomorphy for the subtribe Calyptoproctina is the enlarged apical plate on the female abdomen, which is absent in at least two members of Scaralina, and is also present in some genera that belong outside of Poiocerinae, so we reject the recognition of this subtribe. We consider that Scaralina is probably more closely related to the genus Scaralis Stål than to Alphina Stål. Based on morphology, some species originally described in Scaralis appear to be more closely related to one another than to the type species of the genus, and are here placed in a new subgenus, Alphinoides; Scaralis fluvialis Lallemand and Scaralis nigronotata Stål, plus three species originally described in Poiocera; Scaralis quadricolor (Walker) (the type species of Alphinoides), Scaralis semilimpida (Walker), and Scaralis spectabilis (Walker). Diagnoses are given for separation of the genera Scaralis and Scaralina, as well as the subgenus Alphinoides, plus descriptions of and keys to all species of Scaralina north of Panama, as well as keys to the genera corresponding to the former subtribe “Calyptoproctina” occurring north of Panama.
Sustainable appraisal of lipstick tree seeds (Bixa orellana)-based bixin natural orange colorant for green mordanted silk fabrics and wool yarns
Authors: Yameen Muhammad , Adeel Shahid , Salman Mahwish , Haji Aminoddin , Asghar Fariha , Mia Rony , Imran Muhammad
Published: April 2024

This research aims to optimize the silk and wool dyeing process using natural dyes from Bixa orellana (annatto) through response surface methodology. Central composite design experiments highlight the significant enhancement of color outcomes achieved through microwave treatment. For silk, the optimal conditions (80 °C for 40 min) with annatto extract yield a color strength (K/S) of 17.8588, while wool achieves a K/S of 7.5329. Introducing eco-friendly bio-mordants, such as pomegranate peel and red sumac tannins, enhances color strength. Pre-dyeing treatments with 2% red sumac, 1.5% pomegranate peel, and weld flower extracts for silk produce high color strength, with K/S values of 16.4063, 16.3784, and 12.1658, respectively. Post-dyeing, the K/S values increase to 40.1178, 17.4779, and 21.6494. Wool yarn exhibits similar improvements, with pre-dyeing K/S values of 13.1353, 13.5060, and 16.3232, escalating to 10.5892, 15.3141, and 23.4850 post-dyeing. Furthermore, this research underscores improved colorfastness properties, including notable enhancements in light, wash, and rubbing fastness for both silk fabric and wool yarn. These findings underscore the efficacy of the proposed sustainable dyeing methods, offering valuable insights for eco-friendly textile production.
Dilemma with implant placement in patients with florid cemento-osseous dysplasia: A literature review
Authors: Jagtap Rohan , Gupta Swati , Bhat Mythili , Mehta Neeta , Gupta Sumit
Published: April 2024

Florid cemento-osseous dysplasia (FCOD) is a reactive bony lesion in which normal bone is replaced by fibrous and cementum like tissue. The differential diagnosis of this condition includes solitary bone cyst, solitary ossifying fibroma, and chronic diffuse osteomyelitis. It is often an incidental finding on a radiograph. Radiographically, it presents as a bilateral radiolucent lesion or lobulated radio-opaque masses with an affinity for tooth-bearing areas. Mostly, it progresses asymptomatically, usually diagnosed on a routine radiographic examination. Periodontal surgeries, extractions along with surgical invasive procedures have been determined to be a contraindication in these patients. There is a scarcity of literature to determine if patients with these lesions could be considered for prosthetic rehabilitative procedures like dental implants. The purpose of this literature review was to determine if dental implants could be considered as a treatment modality in patients with FCOD.

Methodology

An electronic search was done in PUBMED, SCOPUS, and a hand search was done in radiology, periodontology, and oral surgery journals. The search yielded 428 results, from which only 6 articles were selected for this literature review. Both prospective and retrospective studies were included. Clinical studies with information on the pre-implant condition of the site, detailed implant procedure, and follow-up after implant placement of more than 6 months were only considered for this review.

Results and conclusion

Limited clinical studies, shorter follow-up periods were the shortcomings of this review. However, it can be summarized that dental implants should not be placed at the site of FCOD, however can be placed at adjacent sites. Variations in implant type or the implant length had no bearing on the survival of implants at the sites of FCOD.
Incidence of venous thromboembolism after cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Saitoh Masato , Kudo Takemi , Watanabe Takao
Published: April 2024

Background

Among venous thromboembolism, pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is one of the most serious postoperative complications. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is the main cause. Considering the unknown prevalence of DVT and PTE in the postoperative period of cardiovascular surgery in Japan, we investigated the incidence in consecutive patients who underwent cardiovascular surgery.

Methods

A total of 225 patients who underwent cardiovascular surgery at four hospitals consented to participate in the study. We assessed DVT using lower extremity venous ultrasound preoperatively and postoperatively. Seven patients with preexisting DVT were excluded. Postoperative antithrombotic therapy was administered at the discretion of the attending physician at each institution. The postoperative intermittent pneumatic compression therapy followed the standard prophylaxis protocol at each institution. Patients were grouped into DVT and non-DVT cohorts for comparison. Continuous variables were expressed as means ± standard deviations and compared by the t-test.

Results

The analysis of lower extremity venous ultrasound images indicated that DVT developed in 16 of the 218 study patients (DVT, 7.3%). No patient had PTE. Procedure-related data revealed significantly higher total blood transfusion (DVT group: 61.2 ± 49.9 IU vs. non-DVT group: 27.7 ± 30.2 IU: p = 0.018, effect size = 1.048) in the DVT group. The multivariate logistic regression predictor of DVT based on preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors was blood transfusion ( p = 0.005, 95% confidence interval 1.010–1.059, odds ratio 1.034).

Conclusions

The incidence of postoperatively developed DVT was 7.3% in this study.
Caring at the edges: Infrastructures of care and repair in urban deprivation
Authors: Traill Helen , Anderson Stephanie , Shaw Deirdre , Cumbers Andrew , McMaster Robert
Published: April 2024

Care is an activity vital to making the world liveable. Alternative infrastructures of care have emerged that re-centre care and repair within everyday life. These infrastructures often require more care to address care deficits and repair the social fabric of society; however, insights are limited as to the implications of demands on people and the places they reside for such extra care. Through an ethnographic study of a community food hub in an area of entrenched deprivation, we examine how an alternative infrastructure of care is built in practice. We demonstrate how care unfolds expansively across people and place to (reactively) repair care deficits and (proactively) generate new care relations. We contribute to the complexity of care theorising by revealing the challenges of care provision that stem from a position of necessity and repair. We offer a critical discussion of alternative infrastructures of care that simultaneously recognises the opportunities for hope, whilst acknowledging their limits.
Understanding vote transfers in two-round elections without resorting to declared data. The contribution of ecological inference, consolidated with factual information from a case study of the 2014 municipal elections in Montpellier
Authors: Audemard Julien
Published: April 2024

In electoral sociology, the analysis of vote transfers has traditionally depended on individual data obtained from surveys. Because such data suffer from a significant amount of declaration and memory bias, replacing them with the electoral statistics available down to polling station level may be advantageous. Recent developments in models of ecological inference allow us to use these aggregated data to establish estimates of vote transfers while minimising the risk of ecological error. Nonetheless, the reliability of ecological inference models for estimating vote transfers has thus far received little attention in the form of empirical evaluations. The purpose of the present article is to cast light on this blind spot by analysing a model for predicting electoral volatility in a two-round election, namely the municipal election held in Montpellier in 2014. What makes this approach original is its use of observed information – the proportion of non-voters in both rounds – first to compare this data with the estimates produced by the model and then to integrate it as a modelling parameter to measure its impact on estimated vote allocation. This analysis reveals that the initial model's results are relatively reliable regarding the known parameter, although they slightly overestimate its amplitude and underestimate its variability. The model that integrates information regarding the proportion of consistent non-voters yields estimates close to those obtained using the “raw” model. In terms of interpretative capacity, the value added by integrating this additional information is, therefore, slight. However, integrating the information does make it possible to establish narrower density intervals, reducing the uncertainty associated with the interpretation of the other parameters, particularly proportions associated with candidates who received few votes in the first round.
Entretien avec Guy Michelat
Authors: Keller Reiner , Poferl Angelika
Published: April 2024

Cet entretien porte sur le rapport que Guy Michelat a entretenu tout au long de sa carrière avec les méthodes d’enquête des sciences sociales, et les méthodes qualitatives plus particulièrement. Il évoque sa formation et la façon dont il a pratiqué, analysé et enseigné l’entretien non-directif. Il souligne l’influence de la psychologie et de l’anthropologie sur les méthodes qualitatives en sociologie politique. L’entretien a été réalisé en février 2013 par Reiner Keller et Denisa Butnaru à Paris, au CEVIPOF. Il a été revu et actualisé fin 2020 en partie par Guy Michelat lui-même.
Analysing mixed-mode effects of computer assisted telephone and personal interviews: A case study based on survey data from the international social survey programme module on environment
Authors: Penker Matthias , Eder Anja
Published: April 2024

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, surveys often could not be conducted in originally planned face-to-face mode, and switched to online modes or used different mixed-mode designs. A combination of CATI and CAPI was used for the Austrian ISSP survey on Environment 2020/2021 (N=1.261), which in the past had always been conducted face-to-face. Mixed-mode surveys facilitate field access in pandemic times and show potential to reduce non-response and coverage errors (desired selection effect). However, the combination of different modes comes along with a series of risks such as mode-effects causing bias due to measurement effects. From an analytical perspective, the challenge arising is to disentangle selection and measurement effects. Thus, we analyse differences in the factorial structure and response distributions of two social constructs using Bayesian multigroup confirmatory factor analysis and linear regression. These represent institutional trust and the willingness to sacrifice for environmental protection. The findings show support for scalar invariance and therefore the absence of CAPI vs. CATI mode-effects on the factorial structure for both constructs. However, despite adjusting for differences in sample composition we observe a higher average willingness within the CATI sample. Based on these results, we discuss implications for the interpretation of mode effects in mixed mode surveys.
Enquêter à partir d’entretiens répétés. Retours méthodologiques sur un outil fécond pour étudier la dynamique des appartenances religieuses
Authors: Venel Nancy
Published: April 2024

En France, contrairement aux Etats-Unis, l’usage de l’entretien répété a été peu discuté. Cet article propose de revenir sur les apports de cet outil, à partir des enseignements tirés de deux enquêtes menées sur des terrains religieux : la première consacrée à l’étude de l’évolution du rapport à la religion des détenu·e·s au cours de leur incarcération et la deuxième portant sur l’analyse des trajectoires de conversion de l’islam vers le christianisme. Ces expériences d’enquête rappellent la nécessité d’adapter nos manières de faire tant à l’objet de recherche qu’aux particularités du terrain. L’entretien répété n’est pas un passage obligé mais son utilisation témoigne d’un attachement à un esprit ethnographique qui essaye peu ou prou de se donner du temps sur le terrain. Sur les terrains religieux mobilisés dans cet article, son usage s’est avéré convaincant à plus d’un titre que ce soit pour gagner la confiance des enquêté·e·s, travailler la densité des données produites, la reconstruction de données biographiques ou la compréhension de processus en train de se faire. En outre, en multipliant les rencontres et ainsi les possibilités de croiser les données, le·la chercheur·euse se donne des garanties pour éviter myopie empirique et autres malentendus.
How to study the stability of interstitial spaces: an analysis based on the case of the visibility of French intellectuals
Authors: Attencourt Boris
Published: April 2024

This article reports on an investigation into the channels through which intellectuals have gained public recognition since the 1970s (quality press, intellectual journals, think tanks, conference venues, cultural radio and TV programs, publishing houses, etc.). Through the prism of field theory, we explored a space – that of the visibility of ideas – situated at the crossroads of several institutionally established fields (academic, intellectual, media, political, and economic). While the number of studies devoted to this type of interstitial space has multiplied since the 2000s, the focus has mainly been on their heteronomy through comparisons with autonomous fields. This approach tends to lose sight of the fact that they could neither emerge nor endure in the absence of stability. Based on the notion of the space of visibility of ideas, the present paper attempts to show that it is possible to apprehend the stability of these labile spaces by adopting an ethnographic approach, conducive to the articulation of micro/meso/macro levels and the mixing of methods. In so doing, we put forward the idea that interstitial spaces can ultimately be analyzed in terms of perimeters and capital, in other words, as fields.
Why and how to conduct a Scoping Review of literature in the Humanities and Social Sciences? Application to free labour in agriculture
Authors: Barisaux Marie , Gasselin Pierre , Laurens Lucette , Ollivier Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Literature reviews stand as familiar and relevant tools within the research community, as mean to produce a state of knowledge to justify the relevance of a research question. Among the many methods that can be used, systematic approaches are developing in the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS). These review methodologies employ rigorous techniques in the identification, retrieval, and analysis of data. The overarching objective is to uphold transparency and replicability in research endeavours, elevating the overall quality and credibility of scholarly work in these disciplines. By presenting the two main systematic approaches to literature reviews – Systematic Literature Reviews (SLRs) and Scoping Reviews (SRs) –, we intend to clarify their respective objectives and methods, so that interested researchers can make an informed choice between them. We thus show that an SR aims to characterise the extent (or scope) of research on a subject or field, whereas an SLR aims to answer a specific question with a view to guiding practices. We also show the interest of these approaches for the HSS. We use a case study – free or unpaid labour in agriculture – to illustrate the different stages of a systematic approach to a literature review. We begin by justifying the choice of an SR over an SLR, and then test the former’s methodology through its various stages. The aim is to provide guidelines for researchers wishing to undertake this type of work. We reflect on this methodology, illustrating its advantages and disadvantages in the light of our experience. We show that systematic approaches to literature reviews are non-linear and time-consuming processes which require constant back-and-forth and reflection between the various stages. Nevertheless, their contributions in helping us understand complex subjects, develop expertise and achieve transparency show that they are suitable approaches for the HSS.
Commercialising the Advanced Materials R&D in the Indian Ecosystem
Authors: Bhardwaj Sanjay , Jain Karuna
Published: April 2024

Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs) are expected to manage the value chain involving the development, demonstration and transfer of technologies. Different technology commercialisation (TC) models, which provide a guiding framework for the management of this value chain, have been proposed in the recent past. The capability of these TC models to address challenges specifically associated with the commercialisation of advanced materials technologies is assessed and a conceptual model is proposed. A case study associated with the commercialisation of advanced materials technology is used to refine the conceptual model. It was found that the conceptual model requires appropriate adjustments especially when an RTO and an industrial organisation have collaboratively worked to realise successful commercialisation.
Impact of Multiple Minority Statuses: An Examination of Violent Victimization, Police Reporting and Perception of Police Bias
Authors: Robinson Rhissa Briones , Mandatori Flavia , Paez Gabriel R.
Published: April 2024

Individuals who identify as belonging to multiple marginalized groups experience disproportionate violent victimization yet are reluctant to inform the police following an incident. Perceptions of the police as biased may influence whether victims report. This study examines low socio-economic and sexual orientation/gender-identity (SOGI) minority statuses on experiencing violent victimization, reporting to the police and perceived police bias as a reason for not reporting. Multivariate logistic regressions were applied to National Crime Victimization Survey data. Low-income, SOGI respondents reported greater odds of experiencing violent victimization but lower odds of reporting to the police. An increase in the odds of perceiving the police as biased was found among victims who did not report. Results suggest greater work to improve the strained relationships between the police and minority communities.
Role of reactive oxygen species in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Jing Qiangan , Zhou Chaoting , Zhang Junyu , Zhang Ping , Wu Yunyi , Zhou Junyu , Tong Xiangmin , Li Yanchun , Du Jing , Wang Ying
Published: April 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as typical metabolic byproducts of aerobic life and play a pivotal role in redox reactions and signal transduction pathways. Contingent upon their concentration, ROS production not only initiates or stimulates tumorigenesis but also causes oxidative stress (OS) and triggers cellular apoptosis. Mounting literature supports the view that ROS are closely interwoven with the pathogenesis of a cluster of diseases, particularly those involving cell proliferation and differentiation, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic/acute myeloid leukemia (CML/AML). OS caused by excessive ROS at physiological levels is likely to affect the functions of hematopoietic stem cells, such as cell growth and self-renewal, which may contribute to defective hematopoiesis. We review herein the eminent role of ROS in the hematological niche and their profound influence on the progress of MDS. We also highlight that targeting ROS is a practical and reliable tactic for MDS therapy.

Graphical Abstract
Utilization of cotton byproduct-derived biochar: a review on soil remediation and carbon sequestration
Authors: Tao Yingru , Feng Weiying , He Zhongqi , Wang Beibei , Yang Fang , Nafsun Aainaa Izyan , Zhang Yazhai
Published: April 2024

Biochar can improve soil health and fix CO2 by altering soil microenvironment, thus impacting the global carbon cycle and the change of soil ecological environment. Recent studies show that cotton byproduct-derived biochar is a potential effective amendment for soil improvement so that it could play an important role in agricultural and environmental conservation. In this work, research topics on cotton byproduct-derived biochar in soil in last decade and so are systematically reviewed for better understanding of the progresses of cotton byproduct-derived biochar in (i) the morphologic and physicochemical characterization, (ii) latest research hotspots and trends, (iii) the roles in soil reclamation, and (iv) relevant carbon sequestration mechanisms. Finally, the future research directions regarding cotton byproduct-derived biochar mingled to soil environment are discussed. Insight derived from this work would provide scientific basis for promoting more applications of cotton byproduct-derived biochar in soil ecological restoration and carbon fixation.

Graphical Abstract
Designing and delivering bioinformatics project-based learning in East Africa
Authors: Kibet Caleb K. , Entfellner Jean-Baka Domelevo , Jjingo Daudi , de Villiers Etienne Pierre , de Villiers Santie , Wambui Karen , Kinyanjui Sam , Masiga Daniel
Published: April 2024

Background

The Eastern Africa Network for Bioinformatics Training (EANBiT) has matured through continuous evaluation, feedback, and codesign. We highlight how the program has evolved to meet challenges and achieve its goals and how experiential learning through mini projects enhances the acquisition of skills and collaboration. We continued to learn and grow through honest feedback and evaluation of the program, trainers, and modules, enabling us to provide robust training even during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, when we had to redesign the program due to restricted travel and in person group meetings.

Results

In response to the pandemic, we developed a program to maintain “residential” training experiences and benefits remotely. We had to answer the following questions: What must change to still achieve the RT goals? What optimal platforms should be used? How would we manage connectivity and data challenges? How could we avoid online fatigue? Going virtual presented an opportunity to reflect on the essence and uniqueness of the program and its ability to meet the objective of strengthening bioinformatics skills among the cohorts of students using different delivery approaches. It allowed an increase in the number of participants. Evaluating each program component is critical for improvement, primarily when feedback feeds into the program's continuous amendment. Initially, the participants noted that there were too many modules, insufficient time, and a lack of hands-on training as a result of too much focus on theory. In the subsequent iterations, we reduced the number of modules from 27 to five, created a harmonized repository for the materials on GitHub, and introduced project-based learning through the mini projects.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that implementing a program design through detailed monitoring and evaluation leads to success, especially when participants who are the best fit for the program are selected on an appropriate level of skills, motivation, and commitment.
Prognosis prediction of procalcitonin within 24 h for acute diquat poisoning
Authors: He Cheng , Liang Liguo , Zhang Yu , Wang Tianyi , Wang Rongyang
Published: April 2024

Background

To explore the predictive value of procalcitonin (PCT) within 24 h after poisoning for prognosis of acute diquat poisoning.

Methods

This retrospective study included acute diquat poisoning patients in the Nanyang City Hospital between May 2017 and July 2021.

Results

Among the 45 patients included, 27 survived. The maximum PCT value within 24 h after poisoning was significantly higher in the non-survival patients [9.65 (2.63, 22.77) vs. 0.15 (0.10, 0.50) µg/mL, P < 0.001] compared to the survival patients. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) indicated that the maximum PCT value within 24 h had a good predictive value (AUC = 0.905, 95% CI: 0.808-1.000) compared to ingested quantity (AUC = 0.879, 95% CI: 0.776–0.981), serum creatinine (AUC = 0.776, 95% CI: 0.640–0.912), or APACHE II score (AUC = 0.778, 95% CI: 0.631–0.925). The predictive value of maximum PCT value within 24 h was comparable with blood lactate (AUC = 0.904, 95%CI: 0.807-1.000).

Conclusions

The maximum PCT value within 24 h after poisoning might be a good predictor for the prognosis of patients with acute diquat poisoning.
Psychosocial working conditions, perceived patient safety and their association in emergency medical services workers in Germany – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Elsässer Antonia , Dreher Annegret , Pietrowsky Reinhard , Flake Frank , Loerbroks Adrian
Published: April 2024

Background

Emergency medical service (EMS) workers face challenging working conditions that are characterized by high stress and a susceptibility to making errors. The objectives of the present study were (a) to characterize the psychosocial working conditions of EMS workers, (b) to describe the perceived quality of patient care they provide and patient safety, and (c) to investigate for the first time among EMS workers associations of psychosocial working conditions with the quality of patient care and patient safety.

Methods

For this cross-sectional study, we carried out an online survey among 393 EMS workers who were members of a professional organization. Working conditions were measured by the Demand-Control-SupportQuestionnaire (DCSQ) and seven self-devised items covering key stressors. Participants reported how often they perceived work stress to affect the patient care they provided and we inquired to what extent they are concerned to have made a major medical error in the last three months. Additionally, we used parts of the Emergency Medical Services – Safety Inventory (EMS-SI) to assess various specific errors and adverse events. We ran descriptive analyses (objective a and b) and multivariable logistic regression (objective c).

Results

The most common stressors identified were communication problems (reported by 76.3%), legal insecurity (69.5%), and switching of colleagues (48.9%) or workplaces (44.5%). Overall, 74.0% reported at least one negative safety outcome based on the EMS-SI. Concerns to have made an important error and the perception that patient care is impaired by work stress and were also frequent (17.8% and 12.7%, respectively). Most psychosocial working conditions were associated with the perception that patient care is impaired due to work stress.

Conclusions

Work stress in EMS staff is pronounced and negative safety outcomes or potential errors are perceived to occur frequently. Poor psychosocial working conditions were only consistently associated with perceived impairment of patient care due to work stress. It seems necessary to reduce communication problems and to optimize working processes especially at interfaces between emergency services and other institutions. Legal insecurity could be reduced by clarifying and defining responsibilities. Communication and familiarity between team colleagues could be fostered by more consistent composition of squads.