bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the relationship between weekend catch-up sleep and phenotypic age acceleration: Insights from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Wang Chen , Huang Ben , Qiu Jun , Zhang Zheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel) is a potential aging biomarker. While weekend catch-up sleep (WCS) is commonly practiced to compensate for weekday sleep deficits, its relationship with PhenoAgeAccel remains unclear.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed data from 7,683 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). WCS duration was calculated as weekend sleep duration minus weekday sleep duration, and WCS was further defined as WCS duration >0 h. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for confounders and subgroup analyses by weekday sleep duration were employed to examine the relationship of WCS with PhenoAgeAccel.

Results

WCS is associated with a modulated risk of PhenoAgeAccel, contingent on the amount of WCS and regular weekday sleep. Specifically, engaging in 0–1 hour of WCS was associated with significantly lower odds of PhenoAgeAccel (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.80, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.68, 0.94, p = 0.007) compared to no WCS, particularly among individuals who averaged 7–8 hours of sleep on weekdays (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49, 0.93, p = 0.016). Conversely, those sleeping less than 6 hours on weekdays benefited from extending WCS beyond 2 hours (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44, 0.97, p = 0.036). No benefits were observed for those with more than 8 hours of weekday sleep.

Conclusions

WCS is associated with a reduced likelihood of PhenoAgeAccel among individuals with inadequate weekday sleep, particularly those sleeping less than 6 hours or between 7 to 8 hours on weekdays.
Promoting Digital Citizenship in Social Work: Training Students for Inclusive and Accessible Tech-Health Practices
Authors: Funk Kristin , Wilkerson David
Published: December 2024

This article details a pedagogical approach to training graduate social work students in tech-health equity, emphasizing technology access as a fundamental human right. A tech-health training taxonomy was developed for a new social work course, aiming to equip students with macro-level skills to support equitable client access to telehealth. The training program was designed to illuminate and cultivate digital citizenship, an essential competency for advancing health equity and inclusivity among disadvantaged populations. To achieve this, the authors outline four pedagogical strategies to enhance students’ understanding and application of digital citizenship, digital self-efficacy, and the empowerment of underserved communities in navigating telehealth. Additionally, the article proposes a research framework to assess the effectiveness of these strategies in supporting students’ mastery of digital citizenship competencies and self-efficacy, including both reactive self-efficacy and generative self-efficacy. This novel approach seeks to prepare future social workers to address the digital divide in healthcare services and promote inclusivity.
Measuring the effectiveness of fisheries management to sustainably produce food
Authors: Hilborn Ray , Hively Daniel , Melnychuk Michael C
Published: December 2024

The objectives of fisheries management are diverse and include production of food, employment, and profit while protecting marine species and the environment. Most evaluations of fisheries outcomes focus on the status of fish stocks, rather than on fisheries’ performance in producing benefits such as food. We develop an index based on calculating the long-term food production for individual stocks as a function of fishing pressure, and comparing that to the estimated maximum sustainable yield. We calculate this index for 19 data-rich countries and 5 regional fisheries management organizations and estimate what fraction of the potential wild-caught fishery yield would be obtained under current management. Across all countries, 77% of the combined maximum sustainable yield is predicted to be caught in the long term. Of the remaining quantity foregone, 86% of foregone food production was attributed to low fishing pressure compared to only 14% foregone resulting from overfishing. The international fisheries had 4% of yield lost to overfishing, and 12% lost due to low fishing pressure. This means that most of the potential for increasing fisheries yield from assessed stocks would come from increased fishing pressure on stocks that are currently underexploited, but this may not be consistent with other national objectives.
Remote underwater video for monitoring reef fish spawning aggregations
Authors: Saulnier Erwan , Breckwoldt Annette , Robert Marianne , Pelletier Dominique
Published: December 2024

Fish spawning aggregations (FSAs) are critical events in the life cycle of many commercially and ecologically important species, yet FSAs are often exploited and highly vulnerable to fishing due to their predictability in time and space. Although FSAs are increasingly recognized as a conservation and management priority, monitoring these ephemeral dynamic events remains challenging. Here, we assessed the ability of remote underwater video (RUV) to monitor reef FSAs, using blacksaddled coral grouper (Plectropomus laevis) as a case study. We deployed RUV systems monthly on a year-round basis in a reef channel of the New Caledonian barrier reef where P. laevis was assumed to form spawning aggregations. Specifically, we investigated whether RUV could both track spatiotemporal changes in fish abundance and detect spawning signs to validate the purpose of potential gatherings. Our analysis revealed strong seasonal changes in P. laevis abundance, characterized by a 5-fold increase between October and February, and marked variations among sampled habitats. The probability of occurrence of males in courtship colouration showed spatiotemporal patterns fairly similar to those in abundance. Finally, we recorded clear courtship behaviours between November and April, providing evidence that P. laevis aggregate monthly to spawn during a protracted reproductive season. This study advances our understanding of the spawning aggregation dynamics of this understudied grouper, and highlights the potential of RUV to monitor and ultimately inform management of reef FSAs.
AI-Augmented Kidney Stone Composition Analysis with Auto-Release Improves Quality, Efficiency, Cost–Effectiveness, and Staff Satisfaction
Authors: Day Patrick L , Rokke Denise , Schneider Laura , Abbott Jillian , Holmen Brenda , Johnson Patrick , Wieczorek Mikolaj A , Kunze Katie L , Carter Rickey E , Bornhorst Joshua , Jannetto Paul J
Published: December 2024

Background

We sought to evaluate key performance indicators related to an internally developed and deployed artificial intelligence (AI)-augmented kidney stone composition test system for potential improvements in test quality, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and staff satisfaction.

Methods

We compared quality, efficiency, staff satisfaction, and financial data from the 6 months after the AI-augmented laboratory test system was deployed (test period) with data from the same 6-month period in the previous year (control period) to determine if AI-augmentation improved key performance indicators of this laboratory test.

Results

In the 6 months following the deployment (test period) of the AI-augmented kidney stone composition test system, 44 830 kidney stones were analyzed. Of these, 92% of kidney stones were eligible for AI-assisted interpretation. Out of these AI-eligible stones, 45% were able to be auto-released by the AI-augmented test system without human secondary review. Furthermore, the new AI-augmented kidney stone test system resulted in an apparent 40% reduction in incorrect laboratory results. Additionally, the new AI-augmented test system improved laboratory efficiency by 20%, improved staff satisfaction, and reduced the average analysis cost per kidney stone by $0.23.

Conclusions

The AI-augmented test system improved test quality, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and staff satisfaction related to this kidney stone composition test.
Observation of Tropilaelaps mercedesae (Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) on Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) exiting colonies
Authors: Tokach Rogan , Aurell Dan , Chuttong Bajaree , Williams Geoffrey R
Published: December 2024

Tropilaelaps mercedesae (Delfinado and Baker) is an emerging parasitic mite that can severely impact the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.). While T. mercedesae has been reported to be expanding its geographical range, the routes of inter-colony dispersal between A. mellifera colonies are still largely unknown. In this study, we used funnel traps to collect foraging honey bees exiting their colonies before performing an alcohol wash to collect any phoretic T. mercedesae mites. We found T. mercedesae on exiting adult honey bees; however, they were only detected when a colony had an elevated T. mercedesae brood infestation. We show that T. mercedesae can exit colonies through phoresy on adult A. mellifera which demonstrates the potential of these mites to be spread through the natural movement of A. mellifera honey bees among colonies.
The copyright and design protection interplay post-Cofemel: continuity or recalibration?
Authors: Sipetas Spyros
Published: December 2024

The Cofemel judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) was issued against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding the protectability of fashion designs by copyright as works of applied art. The initial reflex to this decision, thought to have a radical effect on the copyright–design protection overlap, was a concern that copyright might overtake design rights. This article investigates whether such an outcome has indeed materialized in the post-Cofemel reality of the fashion industry, employing an empirical analysis. Through an evaluation of EUIPO design registration data and interviews with legal practitioners working with fashion brands, the IP landscape in this domain is explored, drawing conclusions concerning the preferred means of protection for fashion designs, before and after Cofemel. Did the CJEU affect the fashion industry’s legal practice or is this Sisyphean task of iterative referrals regarding the fate of works of applied art in vain? And more specifically, was Cofemel’s effect revolutionary, after all, or was the discourse surrounding its significant impact merely an echo chamber within IP scholarship? Overall, the article reflects on the future of fashion design protection from a copyright perspective, also focusing on pending CJEU referrals on works of applied art, while also considering the treatment of derivative works under copyright law and their relevance to the fashion industry.
Gynecologic cancer clinical trial eligibility criteria as a marker for equitable clinical trial access
Authors: Oluloro Ann , Swisher Elizabeth M , Gray Heidi J , Goff Barbara , Doll Kemi M
Published: December 2024

Background

Racial and ethnic minorities remain underrepresented in gynecologic cancer clinical trials despite disproportionately worse oncologic outcomes. Research shows differential racial enrollment patterns because of comorbidity-based exclusion criteria. Our objective was to evaluate contemporary trends in comorbidity-based exclusion criteria among National Cancer Institute–sponsored gynecologic cancer clinical trials and protocol adherence to broadened eligibility criteria guidelines as an assessment of equitable enrollment access.

Methods

The ClinicalTrials.gov registry was queried for National Cancer Institute–sponsored gynecologic cancer clinical trials (1994-2021). Study characteristics and comorbidity-based exclusion criteria were abstracted from protocols. Descriptive statistics and temporal trends were calculated using χ2 testing with STATA v17 software.

Results

Among 279 clinical trials identified, 65% completed enrollment, 53% were phase II, and 48% focused on ovarian cancer. Pharmaceutical agents (85%) were the primary therapeutic interventions. Several inequitably restrictive exclusion criteria increased over time such as hepatitis infection (17% in 1994-2000 vs 49% in 2015-2021, P < .001) and cardiovascular disease (47% in 1994-2000 vs 66% in 2015-2021, P = .002). A previously rare exclusion, “mental illness and/or social situations,” dramatically increased from 5% to 51% (P < .001) over 3 decades. Adherence to broadened eligibility criteria recommendations was mixed. Renal function, cardiovascular disease, and performance status criteria were not broadened, but HIV, prior or concurrent malignancies, and brain metastasis criteria were.

Conclusions

Some, but not all, of the known restrictive comorbidity-based exclusion criteria have increased in gynecologic cancer clinical trial design, despite calls for improving racial and ethnic minority representation. Exclusion criteria are critical for trial safety, however, they must be carefully considered given the differential racial impact on eligibility.
The Ontological Security Politics of US Naval Ship Museums
Authors: Steele Brent J , Subotić Jelena
Published: December 2024

This article explores the politics of United States naval warship museums. Specifically, it investigates the role of museum tour guides in re-embodying and reinforcing, but also contesting and countering, US hegemonic narratives at these popular tourist sites. To explain the politics of these sites, this article is built around three interrelated arguments. First, insights from ontological security studies illuminate identity politics at work, calling particular attention on the routines, narratives, and expertise found throughout these locations. Second, the importance of naval power and the historical narratives at work here are more nuanced than the existing scholarship in critical security studies has considered so far. While hegemonic politics and militarized narratives are embedded, often times overtly, throughout these sites, there are also endogenous tensions within them as well. Examining the role of tour guides, curators, and directors in these settings reveals a contentious politics of US identity representation. Third, we may be witnessing a generational shift in expertise happening in real time. A new generation of experts brings with them new historical sensibilities and attitudes toward the military and US hegemony writ large. We illustrate these dynamics with three short vignettes from ship museums Iowa, Missouri, and Midway.
Correlates of nocturnal hypoxemia in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Rani Seema , Mahon Brendan , Afolabi-Brown Olufunke , Bernstein Bruce A , Apollonsky Nataly , Miller Robin E
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Nocturnal hypoxemia (NH) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), more prevalent in children with sickle cell disease, are associated with sickle cell disease-related comorbidities. This study aimed to identify clinical and laboratory factors associated with NH in children with sickle cell disease.

Methods

This was an institutional review board-approved exploratory retrospective chart review of 81 children with SCD followed by the Sickle Cell Center at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA, referred for an overnight polysomnogram 2008-2014. Demographic, hematologic, respiratory, SCD-related comorbidities and therapies, surgical history, and emergent healthcare utilization data were collected. Data were analyzed by IBM SPSS. Bivariate analyses identified clinical variables that were significantly, individually associated with NH. Clinical variables significantly associated with NH in bivariate analyses were entered in logistic regression models with OSA status to identify factors independently associated with NH, adjusting for OSA status.

Results

Fifteen children (19%) had NH, 18 (22%) had OSA, and 8 (10%) had both. Children with OSA more likely had NH. Lower hemoglobin level, higher reticulocyte count, lower diastolic blood pressure, and lower oxygen saturation were independently, significantly associated with NH, irrespective of the patient’s OSA status.

Conclusions

NH was present even in the absence of OSA. Identifying factors associated with NH is valuable to guide management of this cohort due to the known complications associated with NH in SCD.
Diagnosis and management of sigmoid leiomyosarcoma presenting with intussusception: a case report
Authors: El-Boghdadly Sami A , Alshareef Alaa M , Almisfer Abdulrahman K , Momen Ibrahim M
Published: December 2024

Sigmoid leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates from smooth muscles of the sigmoid colon. This case report details a 50-year-old female found to have this condition, presenting to the emergency department with intussusception. A CT scan revealed two intraluminal masses, with the largest 10 cm from the anal verge. A colonoscopy and biopsy revealed a large obstructing mass with atypical spindle-shaped cells. This case shows a rare type of cancer presenting in a rare complication and highlights the approach done in the multi-disciplinary tumor board meeting involving gastroenterologists, radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists, leading to prompt diagnosis and surgical resection.
Cell- and tissue-specific glycosylation pathways informed by single-cell transcriptomics
Authors: Chrysinas Panagiotis , Venkatesan Shriramprasad , Ang Isaac , Ghosh Vishnu , Chen Changyou , Neelamegham Sriram , Gunawan Rudiyanto
Published: December 2024

While single-cell studies have made significant impacts in various subfields of biology, they lag in the Glycosciences. To address this gap, we analyzed single-cell glycogene expressions in the Tabula Sapiens dataset of human tissues and cell types using a recent glycosylation-specific gene ontology (GlycoEnzOnto). At the median sequencing (count) depth, ∼40–50 out of 400 glycogenes were detected in individual cells. Upon increasing the sequencing depth, the number of detectable glycogenes saturates at ∼200 glycogenes, suggesting that the average human cell expresses about half of the glycogene repertoire. Hierarchies in glycogene and glycopathway expressions emerged from our analysis: nucleotide-sugar synthesis and transport exhibited the highest gene expressions, followed by genes for core enzymes, glycan modification and extensions, and finally terminal modifications. Interestingly, the same cell types showed variable glycopathway expressions based on their organ or tissue origin, suggesting nuanced cell- and tissue-specific glycosylation patterns. Probing deeper into the transcription factors (TFs) of glycogenes, we identified distinct groupings of TFs controlling different aspects of glycosylation: core biosynthesis, terminal modifications, etc. We present webtools to explore the interconnections across glycogenes, glycopathways and TFs regulating glycosylation in human cell/tissue types. Overall, the study presents an overview of glycosylation across multiple human organ systems.
Approximate nearest neighbor graph provides fast and efficient embedding with applications for large-scale biological data
Authors: Zhao Jianshu , Pierre Both Jean , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T
Published: December 2024

Dimension reduction (DR or embedding) algorithms such as t-SNE and UMAP have many applications in big data visualization but remain slow for large datasets. Here, we further improve the UMAP-like algorithms by (i) combining several aspects of t-SNE and UMAP to create a new DR algorithm; (ii) replacing its rate-limiting step, the K-nearest neighbor graph (K-NNG), with a Hierarchical Navigable Small World (HNSW) graph; and (iii) extending the functionality to DNA/RNA sequence data by combining HNSW with locality sensitive hashing algorithms (e.g. MinHash) for distance estimations among sequences. We also provide additional features including computation of local intrinsic dimension and hubness, which can reflect structures and properties of the underlying data that strongly affect the K-NNG accuracy, and thus the quality of the resulting embeddings. Our library, called annembed, is implemented, and fully parallelized in Rust and shows competitive accuracy compared to the popular UMAP-like algorithms. Additionally, we showcase the usefulness and scalability of our library with three real-world examples: visualizing a large-scale microbial genomic database, visualizing single-cell RNA sequencing data and metagenomic contig (or population) binning. Therefore, annembed can facilitate DR for several tasks for biological data analysis where distance computation is expensive or when there are millions to billions of data points to process.
Optimal Representative Strain selector—a comprehensive pipeline for selecting next-generation reference strains of bacterial species
Authors: Tarracchini Chiara , Fontana Federico , Petraro Silvia , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Mancabelli Leonardo , Turroni Francesca , Ventura Marco , Milani Christian
Published: December 2024

Although it is common practice to use historically established ‘reference strains’ or ‘type strains’ for laboratory experiments, this approach often overlooks how effectively these strains represent the full ecological, genetic and functional diversity of the species within a specific ecological niche. In this context, this study proposes the Optimal Representative Strain (ORS) selector tool (https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.13772191), an innovative bioinformatic pipeline capable of evaluating how a strain represents its whole species from a genetic and functional perspective, in addition to considering its ecological distribution in a particular ecological niche. Based on publicly available genomes, the strain that best fits all these three microbiological aspects is designated as an optimal representative strain. Moreover, a user-friendly software called Local Alternative Optimal Representative Strain selector was developed to allow researchers to screen their local library of bacterial strains for an optimal available alternative based on the reference optimal representative strain. Five different bacterial species, i.e. Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Lactococcus lactis, were tested in three different environments to evaluate the performance of the bioinformatic pipeline in selecting optimal representative strains.
Improved characterization of 3′ single-cell RNA-seq libraries with paired-end avidity sequencing
Authors: Chamberlin John T , Gillen Austin E , Quinlan Aaron R
Published: December 2024

Prevailing poly(dT)-primed 3′ single-cell RNA-seq protocols generate barcoded cDNA fragments containing the reverse transcriptase priming site or in principle the polyadenylation site. Direct sequencing across this site was historically difficult because of DNA sequencing errors induced by the homopolymeric primer at the ‘barcode’ end. Here, we evaluate the capability of ‘avidity base chemistry’ DNA sequencing from Element Biosciences to sequence through the primer and enable accurate paired-end read alignment and precise quantification of polyadenylation sites. We find that the Element Aviti instrument sequences through the thymine homopolymer into the subsequent cDNA sequence without detectable loss of accuracy. The additional sequence enables direct and independent assignment of reads to polyadenylation sites, which bypasses the complexities and limitations of conventional approaches but does not consistently improve read mapping rates compared to single-end alignment. We also characterize low-level artifacts and demonstrate necessary adjustments to adapter trimming and sequence alignment regardless of platform, particularly in the context of extended read lengths. Our analyses confirm that Element avidity sequencing is an effective alternative to Illumina sequencing for standard single-cell RNA-seq, particularly for polyadenylation site measurement but do not rule out the potential for similar performance from other emerging platforms.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Fractionated Radiation therapy in the management of pituitary tumors
Authors: Mantziaris Georgios , Trifiletti Daniel M , Pikis Stylianos , Sheehan Jason P
Published: December 2024

Pituitary tumors require a diverse, multidisciplinary approach in their management. Stereotactic radiosurgery (single or hypofractionated) and fractionated radiotherapy are integral parts of the armamentarium. With the introduction of highly conformal, stereotactic ionizing radiation approaches, the reported tumor control rates and clinical outcomes have improved significantly. This review details the indications, risks, and outcomes of pituitary radiosurgery and radiation therapy, and presents in brief the differences in treatment approaches between stereotactic radiosurgery, fractionated radiation therapy, and proton therapy.
Clinical value of the MGMT promoter methylation score in IDHmt low-grade glioma for predicting benefit from temozolomide treatment
Authors: Darlix Amélie , Bady Pierre , Deverdun Jérémy , Lefort Karine , Rigau Valérie , Le Bars Emmanuelle , Meriadec Justine , Carrière Mathilde , Coget Arthur , Santarius Thomas , Matys Tomasz , Duffau Hugues , Hegi Monika E
Published: December 2024

Background

Diffuse IDH mutant low-grade gliomas (IDHmt LGG) (World Health Organization grade 2) typically affect young adults. The outcome is variable, with survival ranging from 5 to over 20 years. The timing and choice of initial treatments after surgery remain controversial. In particular, radiotherapy is associated with early and late cognitive toxicity. Over 90% of IDHmt LGG exhibit some degree of promoter methylation of the repair gene O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methytransferase (MGMTp) that when expressed blunts the effect of alkylating agent chemotherapy, for example, temozolomide (TMZ). However, the clinical value of MGMTp methylation predicting benefit from TMZ in IDHmt LGG is unclear.

Methods

Patients treated in the EORTC-22033 phase III trial comparing TMZ versus radiotherapy served as training set to establish a cutoff based on the MGMT-STP27 methylation score. A validation cohort was established with patients treated in a single-center first-line with TMZ after surgery/surgeries.

Results

The MGMT-STP27 methylation score was associated with better progression-free survival (PFS) in the training cohort treated with TMZ, but not radiotherapy. In the validation cohort, an association with next treatment-free survival (P = .045) after TMZ was observed, and a trend using RANO criteria (P = .07). A cutoff value set above the 95% confidence interval of being methylated was significantly associated with PFS in the TMZ-treated training cohort, but not in the radiotherapy arm. However, this cutoff could not be confirmed in the test cohort.

Conclusions

While the MGMTp methylation score was associated with better outcomes in TMZ-treated IDHmt LGG, a cutoff could not be established to guide treatment decisions.
Cadence
Authors: Caplin William E.
Published: December 2024

This work is the most comprehensive examination to date of how formal units in European art music of the tonal era achieve closure by means of cadence, a highly conventional device for ending middle-ground thematic units. Rooted in the author’s broader “theory of formal functions,” the book first develops concepts of cadence for music of the high classical style and then extends these ideas to gauge cadential practice in earlier and later style periods. Throughout the study, various manifestations of cadence are defined in terms of their morphology (their harmonic and melodic profiles) as well as their function (the specific formal contexts in which they are deployed). Following an introductory chapter on concepts of closure in general (in psychology, literature, and music), Part I of the book examines the “classical cadence” by first laying out a series of general concepts that inform the rest of the study and then defining the harmonic and melodic content of the basic cadence types—perfect authentic, imperfect authentic, and half cadences. Along the way, readers learn how promised cadences can fail to be realized by various deviation techniques (deception, evasion, abandonment, and dominant arrival) and how cadential expansion can significantly loosen the formal organization of thematic units. Part II broadens the stylistic horizon to consider how formal closure is achieved in the style periods of the high baroque, the galant, the early Romantic, and the mid- to late nineteenth century. Specific compositional procedures especially characteristic of these styles are shown to impact how closure is achieved by cadential, but also noncadential, means.
Basic Cadence Types:
Authors: Caplin William E.
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines the three basic cadence types of tonal music—perfect authentic, imperfect authentic, and half. It defines each type in terms of its harmonic-melodic morphology and formal function. It establishes cadence as a schema consisting of temporally ordered stages, each one of which is associated with a fundamental harmony of the cadential progression. It proposes a novel theory of cadential melody. It surveys the formal functions that a given cadence type typically serves in closing various thematic regions of a movement. The chapter looks at the role meter plays in cadential morphology and considers how various textural contexts affect cadential identification. It concludes by assessing two cadence types traditionally included in most cadential typologies, namely the “contrapuntal cadence” and the “plagal cadence.” It argues that these are not truly cadential within the theoretical framework of this study, but rather can be reconceptualized as forms of prolongational closure.
Introduction
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

According to the symmetry principle, crystals tend to adopt the highest possible symmetry. Deviations from the ideal highest symmetry are often small and are due to the chemical composition, the special properties of the involved atoms, and the physical conditions. Symmetry relationships between crystal structures entail group—subgroup relations between their space groups that are depicted in a Bärnighausen tree, which is headed by an aristotype. Three simple examples are presented using the common terminology of chemists.
Basics of crystallography, part 2
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

A crystallographic symmetry operation is compatible with the periodicity of a crystal. That causes that only matrix—column pairs (W,w) with a finite number of matrices W are possible. Rotations, rotorotations and screw rotations are restricted to rotation angles of 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 180°, 240°, and 270°. Crystallographic symmetry operations are expressed by Hermann—Mauguin symbols
Basics of crystallography, part 3
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

A point group is a symmetry group without translational symmetry. The symmetry of a molecule and of an ideally shaped crystal corresponds to a point group. It two crystallographic point groups have the same groups of matrices {W1} and {W2}, they belong to the same crystal class. In a primitive lattice all lattice vectors are linear combinations of the basis vectors; a centred lattice also has fractional combinations and an enlarged unit cell. Space-group types are designated by Hermann–Mauguin symbols that express the kind of lattice and the other symmetry operations. A space group is a space-group type with specific lattice parameters. Every space-group type has one general position with the site symmetry 1, and it may have several special positions with higher site symmetries. The 230 space-group types are listed in International Tables for Crystallography, Volume A.
How to handle space groups
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

A set of points whose site symmetries are conjugate is a Wyckoff position. It is designated by its multiplicity and a Wyckoff letter. When the setting of the space group is changed, the designation may change. In a crystallographic group—subgroup relation a Wyckoff position of the group is converted in a unique way to one or several Wyckoff positions of the subgroup. A setting of a space group is conventional if it is completely tabulated in International Tables for Crystallography, Volume A. When comparing crystal structures, it is preferable to avoid cell transformations, what often entails the use of non-conventional settings of space groups. Detailed instructions are given on how to handle non-conventional settings.
The group-theoretical presentation of crystal-chemical relationships
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

A scheme and instructions are presented of how to set up a Bärnighausen tree of group—subgroup relations between space groups. Starting from an aristotype, each step of the symmetry reductions is noted, with distinction of translationengleiche, klassengleiche and isomorphic subgroups and with the inclusion of basis transformations. The development of the Wyckoff positions of occupied positions is monitored.
Group–subgroup relations as an aid for structure determination
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

When crystal structures of similar compounds are known, group—subgroup relations can help to determine the space group of an unknown structure. This can also help to solve the phase problem of protein structures. The presence of weak superstructure reflections in X-ray diffraction diagrams is an indication of some structural distortion that can be cleared up by a group—subgroup relation. When superstructure reflections have been missed, the derived crystal structure is wrong and the real space group is a subgroup of the assumed space group. Wrong structures result when twinning of crystals has not been recognized; in such cases group—subgroup relations can help to solve the problem.
The Bilbao Crystallographic Server
Authors: Müller Ulrich , de la Flor Gemma
Published: December 2024

The Server offers access to databases and computer programs for crystallographic applications, especially related to space groups and their subgroups. Most programs solely accept data in the standard setting of the space groups. With the database of the space groups the data of International Tables of Crystallography, Volumes A, A1, and E can be retrieved. The program MAXSUB yields the space group types of the maximal subgroups and, on request, the space subgroups themselves with the corresponding transformation matrices. Graphs of group—subgroup chains can be plotted with the program SUBGROUPGRAPH. The program WYCKSPLIT shows the splitting of the Wyckoff positions in a group—subgroup relation. It is possible to calculate coordinate transformations and equivalent coordinate sets. The similarity of crystal structures with the same or with different space groups can be evaluated.
Primary teachers’ knowledge for teaching mathematical problem solving
Authors: Piñeiro Juan Luis , Castro-Rodríguez Elena
Published: December 2024

Teaching mathematical problem solving calls for knowledge of a series of specific skills. Nonetheless, research on teachers’ role in problem-solving instruction is both scarce and scarcely systematized. This presentation reviews the studies submitted to the Symposium on Elementary Mathematics Teaching (SEMT) over the last 30 years. It focuses on presentations addressing teachers’ knowledge of mathematical problem solving, and identifying the contributions made to the area by SEMT participants. In addition to providing an overview of research on the subject, the review describes the good practices identified in the pre-service training of primary education teachers, as well as their professional development.
Students with special needs: Learning mathematics successfully
Authors: Scherer Petra
Published: December 2024

In this chapter, firstly, a short a retrospective view of the early SEMT symposia is given, followed by the focus on the state-of-the-art research represented by the present SEMT symposia. The actual situation shows that, in the meantime, models of integration and inclusive education have developed, and most of the students with special needs learn in regular classrooms. The chapter will also illustrate suitable learning offers for students with special needs that have to fulfil several requirements: on the one hand, the environment has to represent central mathematical principles and should support the development of concepts more than the learning of procedural skills of arithmetic. On the other hand, learning offers have to be suitable for all learners in an inclusive classroom. The chapter ends with some conclusions and perspectives.
Visualization as a tool in teaching: Pre-service teachers’ competencies in visualization
Authors: Milinković Jasmina
Published: December 2024

Visualization has provoked extensive interest among researchers, along with Bruner’s theory of representations. Visualization is a tool of communication between teachers and pupils. The purpose of this chapter is to examine the role of visualization in education of pre-service elementary school teachers. Specifically, the paper focuses on examining pre-service teachers’ competencies in: visualizing mathematical concepts, posing problems via visual tools, and solving problems using visualization strategies that have been examined in previous studies. The analysis describes previous findings on pre-service teachers’ professional competencies in using visualization in teaching, referring to the findings of 32 studies addressing visualization, which were reported in SEMT proceedings over the period 1991–2019. The chapter then explains, and draw conclusions, on how visualization could effectively help teachers to enrich their teaching strategies. Professional development of teachers’ competencies would enable them in using visualization in various aspects of the teaching process in addition to other teaching strategies.
Resources Matter
Authors: Addison Tony , Roe Alan
Published: December 2024

The extraction and use of natural resources underpins a global economy that provides high living standards for many as well as the prospect of ending poverty in the developing world. Mining, as well as the oil and gas industries, are vitally important sectors in many developing countries. They provide substantial public revenues as well as much-needed foreign exchange, and livelihoods for many. Yet, the extractive industries are highly controversial. The continued extraction and burning of fossil fuels in energy generation and transport, together with the emissions associated with mining and metals refining, are taking the planet to dangerous levels of emissions. In addition, the extractive industries have a record of damaging nature through both pollution and the destruction of biodiversity. This book explores a central issue of our time: our materials world is simultaneously both part of the problem (especially fossil fuels) and part of its solution (the materials necessary for the technologies required for ‘net zero’). The book discusses how the extractive industries can be leveraged to generate more beneficial impacts in poorer economies and improve livelihoods at local and national levels. A central argument is that the so-called ‘resource curse’ is not inevitable. Much can be done through policy, coordinated government action in partnership with the private sector, and judicious investments to improve the prospects for resource wealth to make a positive contribution to escaping underdevelopment and poverty. Extractive industries have a key role in working with governments to achieve these goals.
Transforming States
Authors: Addison Tony , Roe Alan
Published: December 2024

This chapter analyses the roles that states, civil society, and international actors can play in tackling the weak governance that sometimes leads to resources being used for private rather than public benefit. It discusses the corruption that bedevils licensing and commodities trading, and oil theft which runs into billions of dollars. Ensuring transparency in revenue flows to the state is vital to better fiscal management, building governmental accountability to citizens, and avoiding state fragility. Initiatives such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) have already achieved much, not least in improving the information base. Although corruption and theft may never be fully eliminated, they can certainly be reduced by building improved technical capacity in domestic regulation, by enhancing civil society’s capacity to cast light on the sector (though dangerous work in authoritarian societies), and by strengthening transparency in supply-chains (in which information technology offers new opportunities).
The Body
Authors: Rutter Tom
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines ways in which ideas about the human body’s structure and processes are deployed in Shakespeare’s writing. It uses All’s Well that Ends Well as an example of a play’s comic development and resolution turning on medical knowledge. It then sets out some medical theories prevalent in Shakespeare’s time, notably humoral theory and Galen’s non-dualistic notion of the relationship between body and soul. It shows how the embodied nature of emotional experience is stressed in Lucrece, before considering the depiction of the humoral body in Henry IV and Othello (where the relationship between the humours and racial difference is also explored). Finally, it links the way Othello problematizes sexual knowledge to the attempts of early modern anatomists to reveal truths about the body through dissection, noting the structural comparability of playhouse and anatomy theatre.
“Small Voices Sing Big Songs”
Authors: Ayyagari Shalini R.
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines intersections of development, institutionalization, and community-building in North Indian contemporary regional music among the Manganiyar, a community of hereditary musicians living in the Thar Desert of western Rajasthan. The Manganiyar have maintained musical practice within a strict patronage system as their caste and livelihood for centuries. This chapter tracks the interplay between themes of tradition, preservation, and modernity in examining Manganiyar music. The dilemmas posed by the need for economic and social stability once secured by hereditary patrons are profound, yet Manganiyar musicians have been extremely resilient and resourceful in creating new opportunities to sustain music as a profession. In recent decades, Manganiyar musicians have performed nationally and internationally, on renowned concert stages like Carnegie Hall and reality television shows like Indian Idol, and are reshaping their image in their villages through empowered acts of economic, social, and cultural reclamation.
Mundari Performance after the Revolution
Authors: Babiracki Carol M.
Published: December 2024

Tribal dance was a potent symbol when it was first presented on stage in the early days of the movement for Jharkhand statehood in the 1980s and 1990s. The area’s Adivasis (lit., “original inhabitants,” indigenous people, tribal people) related deeply to its ideal of a well-integrated, collectively oriented, but dynamically pluralistic village society. The phrase “Naci se Baci” (“Saved by Dance”) summed up the hopes of the movement’s cultural leaders. However, the real revolutionary changes came after statehood was granted in 2000. Tribal dance is still going strong, but as a stage art that takes young village performers to cities all over India. Stage dance substitutes a prescribed, choreographed script that reflects a new, different set of values: standardization and predictability rather than spontaneity; patriarchy rather than gender balance; hierarchical decision-making rather than collective; attention directed outside the dancing circle rather than inside; uniformity rather than individuality; and perfection rather than joy.
“All the Parts of Who I Am”
Authors: Morelli Sarah L.
Published: December 2024

Kathak, a globally recognized dance from northern regions of South Asia, involves storytelling in which one dancer may enact myriad roles, male and female, demon and divine. Regardless of one’s own sex and gender identification, performances of multiple, different, and specifically gendered characters help develop a more gender-inclusive sense of self considered healthy and beneficial. However, some characters challenge this overarching narrative of health more than others. This chapter focuses on the Leela Dance Collective—a US-based kathak artist collective of Indian, Indian American, and non-Indian dancers, including this chapter’s author—to examine dancers’ experiences in playing some of the more challenging roles from the Hindu epic Ramayana. In particular, the process of physically embodying a character, combined with examining the character’s motivations, helps the dancer generate an empathetic connection crucial to create compelling art.
Performing Youthful Desires
Authors: Kheshgi Rehanna
Published: December 2024

In the northeastern Indian state of Assam, young performers move between ritual contexts in village courtyards and competitive arenas on proscenium stages, performing music and dance associated with the springtime Bihu festival, which commemorates the New Year. Bihu festival songs narrate romantic encounters between women and men, evoking metaphorical parallels in the natural world such as the intoxicating smell of newly blossoming flowers and the mesmerizing light of the moon. This chapter demonstrates how Bihu’s melodic, rhythmic, lyrical, and movement-oriented structures work together to encode values associated with heteronormative masculinity and femininity. Although the expression of romantic desire in Bihu performance challenges the boundaries of respectability associated with folklorization in an Assamese context, the directors of “Panchasur” have addressed this tension by adopting a narrative from the medieval past to demonstrate Bihu’s potential to facilitate the transgression of social norms related to class while upholding values associated with normative femininity and masculinity.
Love, Politics, and Life between Village and City in Nepali Lok Dohori
Authors: Stirr Anna Marie
Published: December 2024

Nepali singer Badri Pangeni’s song “Do You Love Me or Not?” portrays a flirtation between a married, migrant man who has come to the city and a young, urban woman he’s met there, A duet in the commercial folk genre known as lok dohori (“folk duet”), this song explicitly and implicitly addresses ideas of what is “true” and “false” in rapidly changing gender dynamics, senses of belonging, and other issues involved in rural-urban and international migration and its impact on intimate relationships among Nepalis today. This song’s album appeared under a progression of titles from the apparently apolitical, to the socially conscious, to the overtly political. This chapter uses the album, its music videos, and some of its songs as points of entry into the intimate politics of Nepali lives today, as expressed in the world of lok dohori music.
Desi Dance Music
Authors: Bhattacharjya Nilanjana , Rekha DJ
Published: December 2024

This chapter argues that (1) desi dance music is produced in South Asia and in multiple locations throughout the world, from which it travels in different directions through transnational networks; (2) the various national identities and roles of musicians as producers, guest artists, and/or music directors further complicate how these songs travel through transnational networks of production; (3) how these songs define and express a desi identity through their sound elements may at times relate less to South Asia itself, and much more to how people of South Asian heritage distinguish their own identities from those of other people where they live; and (4) desi dance music often reaches its listeners through film music. In drawing from multiple genres and styles, desi dance music is a creative expression that flows against an essential sense of national, regional, or diasporic identity.