bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 4137985: Impaired Skeletal Muscle Condition and Stroke Volume Reserve Characterize Poor Exercise Performance in Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Tsuda Takeshi , Davidow Kimberly , DAloisio Gina , Quillen Joanne
Published: November 2024

Background:
Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) frequently show poor exercise performance, but its pathophysiology and clinical significance are poorly understood.

Methods:
Poor exercise performers, defined as peak oxygen consumption (VO2)/kg < 80% of predicted maximum VO2/kg, were enrolled, including 40 CCS (20 males, 20 females) and 32 controls (15 males, 17 females) from 79 CCS and 147 age-matched controls, respectively. Peak and submaximal CPET parameters were compared between CCS and controls with poor exercise performance. Submaximal slope parameters represent a trend up to anaerobic threshold (AT).

Results:
Ages and anthropometric measurements (weight, height, and body mass index) were comparable between CCS and controls in both sexes (Table 1). Both resting and peak heart rate (HR) were significantly higher in CCS than in controls in males. There was no significant difference in peak VO2/kg, peak oxygen pulse (OP)/kg, peak respiratory exchange ratio, or VO2/kg at AT (VAT/kg) between CCS and controls in both sexes. Peak work rate (WR/kg) was significantly lower in CCS compared with that in controls in both sexes, suggesting reduced muscle strength in CCS. Figure 1 demonstrates decreased muscle mass/strength in CCS than in controls. In males, Δ[VO2/kg]/ ΔHR was significantly lower in CCS than in controls, indicating limited stroke volume reserve (SVR) in male CCS. In female, although there was no significant difference in Δ[VO2/kg]/ΔHR between CCS and controls, HR-dependency expressed by ΔHR/Δ[WR/kg] was significantly higher in CCS than in controls, suggesting impaired SVR. ΔVO2/ΔWR, a marker for physical conditioning, was comparable between CCS and controls in both sexes.

Conclusions:
Poor exercise performance in CCS is characterized mainly by decreased muscle mass/strength and impaired SVR for both sexs. Impaired SVR may be an early sign of subclinical cardiotoxicity. Poor exercise performance in CCS should be improved to prevent future cardiovascular complications.
Abstract 4138024: Identifying the Medications with the Greatest Reduction in Mortality in Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Kazi Usman , AL-Nasseri Abraheim , Ho Huy , Pasupuleti Suman
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Coronary artery dissection (CD) is a potentially fatal complication, usually arising either spontaneously or iatrogenically. Therefore, identifying treatment methods that reduce mortality is of great importance. The American College of Cardiology recommendations stipulate that patients who have experienced CD may benefit from beta-blocker therapy, as beta-blockers have been shown to reduce the incidence of recurrent CD. Currently, there is little published data in support of beta-blockers providing mortality reduction for CD. Given the significant risk of mortality from CD, we aimed to test the veracity of these recommendations using a retrospective multicenter study as well as having a main objective of exploring means to lower mortality in CD.

Methods:
We conducted a retrospective, multicenter cohort that identified 2,104 patients diagnosed with CD. We extracted the data from across 16 West Florida hospitals in between the years of 2017-2022. Our patients were identified and stratified based on common lab values and cardioprotective medications they were taking. Chi-square and binary logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for mortality. The odds ratio estimate for mortality was our primary outcome with attention given to factors that were associated with an increased or decreased likelihood of mortality in patients with CD.

Results:
Patients on beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) were the only variables that were statistically significant. Out of 2,104 patients, 1,562 patients were on beta-blockers (74.2%), and 921 were on an ACEi/ARB (43.8%). Our data revealed that the odds ratio for mortality in patients with CD while on beta blockers was 0.375 (p-value 0.0009, confidence interval 0.210-0.669), and while on ACEi/ARBs was 0.447 (p-value 0.0077, confidence interval 0.247-0.808). These results indicate a significant reduction in mortality in patients who are taking beta-blockers and/or ACEi/ARB medications after being diagnosed with CD.

Conclusion:
Our data can be viewed as supportive of the current recommendation for the primary use of beta-blockers in patients with spontaneous CD, as well as suggesting angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors as possible additional therapies
[
99m
Tc]-PentixaTec SPECT/CT for Imaging of Chemokine Receptor 4 Expression After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Liebich Alessandro , Bundschuh Ralph A. , Pfob Christian H. , Kircher Malte , Wienand Georgine , Raake Philip , Nekolla Stephan G. , Schottelius Margret , Higuchi Takahiro , Rieger Maximilian , Lapa Constantin
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Accumulation of CXCR4 (C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4)–positive immune cells after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) can be visualized by positron emission tomography. For a broader clinical application, there is a need for CXCR4-directed radiotracers labeled with isotopes that can be used with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). We report on the detection of CXCR4 expression after AMI in humans using the novel tracer [
99m
Tc]-PentixaTec.

METHODS:

In this retrospective analysis, 9 patients with AMI after mechanical revascularization underwent myocardial inflammation imaging with [
99m
Tc]-PentixaTec SPECT/computed tomography and rest perfusion SPECT imaging. Tracer uptake in the infarcted area, spleen, bone marrow, and blood pool were used for semiquantitative analysis and calculation of signal-to-background ratios. The extent and intensity of SPECT-derived inflammatory changes were compared with serological markers and perfusion defects.

RESULTS:

CXCR4-directed SPECT was positive in all patients. Increased CXCR4 expression was only detected in areas with diminished perfusion corresponding to the affected vessel in coronary angiography, with a signal-to-background ratio (infarcted area-to-blood pool) of 2.36±0.74. Uptake in bone marrow and spleen showed a significant correlation with CXCR4 expression in the infarcted areas (r=0.73 and
P
=0.03 for spleen and r=0.81 and
P
=0.008 for bone marrow, respectively). The extent and intensity of SPECT-derived inflammatory changes showed no significant association with serum troponin, CK (creatine kinase), leukocyte, or CRP (C-reactive protein) levels.

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the first report of in vivo CXCR4 imaging after AMI using a
99m
Tc-labeled tracer. Increased CXCR4 expression was observed locally in the infarcted region and was related to a systemic inflammatory response in the reticuloendothelial system. This proof-of-concept investigation demonstrates the general feasibility of evaluating the inflammation-related CXCR4 expression in the myocardium after AMI using conventional scintigraphy or SPECT and might, thus, broaden its worldwide application in clinical practice.
The Role of Primary Care in Achieving Life’s Essential 8: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Sterling Madeline R. , Ferranti Erin P. , Green Beverly B. , Moise Nathalie , Foraker Randi , Nam Soohyun , Juraschek Stephen P. , Anderson Cheryl A.M. , St. Laurent Paul , Sussman Jeremy ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Primary Care Science Committee of the Council on Quality of Care and Outcomes Research and the Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Cardiopulmonary, Critical Care, Perioperative and Resuscitation; and Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health
Published: November 2024

To reduce morbidity and mortality rates of cardiovascular disease, an urgent need exists to improve cardiovascular health among US adults. In 2022, the American Heart Association issued Life’s Essential 8, which identifies and defines 8 health behaviors and factors that, when optimized through a combination of primary prevention, risk factor management, and effective treatments, can promote ideal cardiovascular health. Because of its central role in patient care across the life span, primary care is in a strategic position to promote Life’s Essential 8 and improve cardiovascular health in the United States. High-quality primary care is person-centered, team-based, community-aligned, and designed to provide affordable optimized health care. The purpose of this scientific statement from the American Heart Association is to provide evidence-based guidance on how primary care, as a field and practice, can support patients in implementing Life’s Essential 8. The scientific statement aims to describe the role and functions of primary care, provide evidence for how primary care can be leveraged to promote Life’s Essential 8, examine the role of primary care in providing access to care and mitigating disparities in cardiovascular health, review challenges in primary care, and propose solutions to address challenges in achieving Life’s Essential 8.
Mechanistic Insights Into Redox Damage of the Podocyte in Hypertension
Authors: Ilatovskaya Daria V. , Behr Amanda , Staruschenko Alexander , Hall Gentzon , Palygin Oleg
Published: November 2024

Podocytes are specialized cells within the glomerular filtration barrier, which are crucial for maintaining glomerular structural integrity and convective ultrafiltration. Podocytes exhibit a unique arborized morphology with foot processes interfacing by slit diaphragms, ladder-like, multimolecular sieves, which provide size and charge selectivity for ultrafiltration and transmembrane signaling. Podocyte dysfunction, resulting from oxidative stress, dysregulated prosurvival signaling, or structural damage, can drive the development of proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis in hypertensive nephropathy. Functionally, podocyte injury leads to actin cytoskeleton rearrangements, foot process effacement, dysregulated slit diaphragm protein expression, and impaired ultrafiltration. Notably, the renin-angiotensin system plays a pivotal role in podocyte function, with beneficial AT2R (angiotensin receptor 2)-mediated nitric oxide (NO) signaling to counteract AT1R (angiotensin receptor 1)-driven calcium (Ca
2+
) influx and oxidative stress. Disruption of this balance contributes significantly to podocyte dysfunction and drives albuminuria, a marker of kidney damage and overall disease progression. Oxidative stress can also lead to sustained ion channel–mediated Ca
2+
influx and precipitate cytoskeletal disorganization. The complex interplay between GPCR (G-protein coupled receptor) signaling, ion channel activation, and redox injury pathways underscores the need for additional research aimed at identifying targeted therapies to protect podocytes and preserve glomerular function. Earlier detection of albuminuria and podocyte injury through routine noninvasive diagnostics will also be critical in populations at the highest risk for the development of hypertensive kidney disease. In this review, we highlight the established mechanisms of oxidative stress–mediated podocyte damage in proteinuric kidney diseases, with an emphasis on a hypertensive renal injury. We will also consider emerging therapies that have the potential to selectively protect podocytes from redox-related injury.
Back to Bipolarity: How China's Rise Transformed the Balance of Power
Authors: Lind Jennifer
Published: November 2024

China's rise, Russia's military resurgence, and India's economic growth have prompted debates about the end of unipolarity and the future balance of power. Such debates are a staple of international politics; indeed, in the late twentieth century, many observers warned that Japan and the Soviet Union would overtake the United States. Yet scholars and policymakers evince little agreement on how to define power or measure the distribution of power. This article introduces an inductive method for comparing national power. I empirically validate common metrics of national capabilities—economic and military—by assessing their ability to both predict known balances of power across historical systems (1820–1990) and distinguish between great powers and other countries. This method yields three important findings. First, large gaps in national capabilities between great powers and even superpowers have been common throughout history. Great powers need not achieve parity with the leading state to engage in a dangerous security competition. Second, this method shows that China on most dimensions is not only a great power but a superpower. Third, neither Russia nor India is a great power. The system is bipolar. These findings inform debates about the stability of international politics and the future of international order and suggest the likelihood of shifts in U.S. grand strategy and alliances.
Neural Correlates of Retrieval Success and Precision: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Hou Mingzhu , Hill Paul F. , Aktas Ayse N. Z. , Ekstrom Arne D. , Rugg Michael D.
Published: November 2024

Prior studies examining the neural mechanisms underlying retrieval success and precision have yielded inconsistent results. Here, the neural correlates of success and precision were examined with a memory task that assessed precision for spatial location. A sample of healthy young adults underwent fMRI scanning during a single study–test cycle. At study, participants viewed a series of object images, each placed at a randomly selected location on an imaginary circle. At test, studied images were intermixed with new images and presented to the participants. The requirement was to move a cursor to the location of the studied image, guessing if necessary. Participants then signaled whether the presented image had been studied. Memory precision was quantified as the angular difference between the studied location and the location selected by the participant. A precision effect was evident in the left angular gyrus, where BOLD activity covaried with location accuracy. In addition, multivoxel pattern analysis revealed a significant item-level reinstatement effect in the angular gyrus for high-precision trials. There was no evidence of a retrieval success effect in this region. BOLD activity in the hippocampus was insensitive to both success and precision. These findings are partially consistent with prior evidence that success and precision are dissociable features of memory retrieval.
How Can Graph Theory Inform the Dual-stream Model of Speech Processing? A Resting-state Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Stroke and Aphasia Symptomology
Authors: Zhu Haoze , Fitzhugh Megan C. , Keator Lynsey M. , Johnson Lisa , Rorden Chris , Bonilha Leonardo , Fridriksson Julius , Rogalsky Corianne
Published: November 2024

The dual-stream model of speech processing describes a cortical network involved in speech processing. However, it is not yet known if the dual-stream model represents actual intrinsic functional brain networks. Furthermore, it is unclear how disruptions after a stroke to the functional connectivity of the dual-stream model's regions are related to speech production and comprehension impairments seen in aphasia. To address these questions, in the present study, we examined two independent resting-state fMRI data sets: (1) 28 neurotypical matched controls and (2) 28 chronic left-hemisphere stroke survivors collected at another site. We successfully identified an intrinsic functional network among the dual-stream model's regions in the control group using functional connectivity. We then used both standard functional connectivity analyses and graph theory approaches to determine how this connectivity may predict performance on clinical aphasia assessments. Our findings provide evidence that the dual-stream model of speech processing is an intrinsic network as measured via resting-state MRI and that functional connectivity of the hub nodes of the dual-stream network defined by graph theory methods, but not overall average network connectivity, is weaker in the stroke group than in the control participants. In addition, the functional connectivity of the hub nodes predicted linguistic impairments on clinical assessments. In particular, the relative strength of connectivity of the right hemisphere's homologues of the left dorsal stream hubs to the left dorsal hubs, versus to the right ventral stream hubs, is a particularly strong predictor of poststroke aphasia severity and symptomology.
The control costs of human brain dynamics
Authors: Ceballos Eric G. , Luppi Andrea I. , Castrillon Gabriel , Saggar Manish , Misic Bratislav , Riedl Valentin
Published: November 2024

The human brain is a complex system with high metabolic demands and extensive connectivity that requires control to balance energy consumption and functional efficiency over time. How this control is manifested on a whole-brain scale is largely unexplored, particularly what the associated costs are. Using the network control theory, here, we introduce a novel concept, time-averaged control energy (TCE), to quantify the cost of controlling human brain dynamics at rest, as measured from functional and diffusion MRI. Importantly, TCE spatially correlates with oxygen metabolism measures from the positron emission tomography, providing insight into the bioenergetic footing of resting-state control. Examining the temporal dimension of control costs, we find that brain state transitions along a hierarchical axis from sensory to association areas are more efficient in terms of control costs and more frequent within hierarchical groups than between. This inverse correlation between temporal control costs and state visits suggests a mechanism for maintaining functional diversity while minimizing energy expenditure. By unpacking the temporal dimension of control costs, we contribute to the neuroscientific understanding of how the brain governs its functionality while managing energy expenses.
Functional connectotomy of a whole-brain model reveals tumor-induced alterations to neuronal dynamics in glioma patients
Authors: Alexandersen Christoffer G. , Douw Linda , Zimmermann Mona L. M. , Bick Christian , Goriely Alain
Published: November 2024

Brain tumors can induce pathological changes in neuronal dynamics that are reflected in functional connectivity measures. Here, we use a whole-brain modeling approach to investigate pathological alterations to neuronal activity in glioma patients. By fitting a Hopf whole-brain model to empirical functional connectivity, we investigate glioma-induced changes in optimal model parameters. We observe considerable differences in neuronal dynamics between glioma patients and healthy controls, both on an individual and population-based level. In particular, model parameter estimation suggests that local tumor pathology causes changes in brain dynamics by increasing the influence of interregional interactions on global neuronal activity. Our approach demonstrates that whole-brain models provide valuable insights for understanding glioma-associated alterations in functional connectivity.
Cell-type-specific contributions to theta-gamma coupled rhythms in the hippocampus
Authors: Sengupta Spandan , Talidou Afroditi , Lefebvre Jeremie , Skinner Frances K.
Published: November 2024

Distinct inhibitory cell types participate in cognitively relevant nested brain rhythms, and particular changes in such rhythms are known to occur in disease states. Specifically, the coexpression of theta and gamma rhythms in the hippocampus is believed to represent a general coding scheme, but cellular-based generation mechanisms for these coupled rhythms are currently unclear. We develop a population rate model of the CA1 hippocampus that encompasses circuits of three inhibitory cell types (bistratified cells and parvalbumin [PV]-expressing and cholecystokinin [CCK]-expressing basket cells) and pyramidal cells to examine this. We constrain parameters and perform numerical and theoretical analyses. The theory, in combination with the numerical explorations, predicts circuit motifs and specific cell-type mechanisms that are essential for the coexistence of theta and gamma oscillations. We find that CCK-expressing basket cells initiate the coupled rhythms and regularize theta, and PV-expressing basket cells enhance both theta and gamma rhythms. Pyramidal and bistratified cells govern the generation of theta rhythms, and PV-expressing basket and pyramidal cells play dominant roles in controlling theta frequencies. Our circuit motifs for the theta-gamma coupled rhythm generation could be applicable to other brain regions.
2. The Permissible and the Forbidden
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

Following Richter and Rubinstein (2020), we analyze an equilibrium concept based upon social norms: the Y-equilibrium. A Y-equilibrium is a set of permissible alternatives and a profile of choices, one for each agent, such that:

(i) each agent's choice is optimal from among the permissible alternatives;

(ii) the profile of choices is feasible; and

(iii) the set of permissible alternatives is maximal in the sense that there is no superset of permissible alternatives from which a profile satisfying (i) and (ii) can be found.

By this definition, two forces make a permissible set unstable: The first modifies the permissible set in the case that the profile of (intended) choices is not feasible, while the second loosens restrictions on the permissible set as long as a new profile of optimal choices is feasible. We also consider a variant of this concept where we require that the permissible set is convex.

We study the Y-equilibria of a variety of examples and prove existence theorems, “welfare” theorems and a structure theorem when the set of alternatives is Euclidean.
4. Biased Preferences Equilibrium
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

This chapter follows Rubinstein and Wolinsky (2022) who propose a biased preferences equilibrium solution concept in which agents' preference relations are systematically biased. The bias does not affect the agents' opportunity sets, but rather their preferences, which are systematically biased in such a way that the profile of agents' biased optimal choices is feasible.

We envision biases as a mechanism for bringing harmony to a multi-agent economy. These biases, like prices, apply uniformly to all agents. Every agent's final preferences are determined by his initial preferences and the commonly shared bias.

We apply the concept to three types of economies: the give-and-take, market economies with fixed prices and housing-type economies.
Where is the Dust Source of 2023 Several Severe Dust Events in China?
Authors: Chen Yu , Chen Siyu , Bi Hongru , Zhou Jie , Zhang Yue
Published: November 2024

Northern China was hit by 13 unprecedented mega dust events in spring 2023. However, a comprehensive understanding of the relative contributions of potential dust sources to dust concentrations in China remains elusive, threatening air quality, damaging ecosystems, and further complicating dust forecasting and warning efforts. The impact of five major Asian dust sources on China and its downstream regions has been accurately quantified using the Weather Research and Forecasting Model coupled with Chemistry (WRF-Chem). Notably, dust particles originating from Mongolia play a crucial role in downstream air pollution. Approximately 56% (82.7 μg m−3) of the dust in North China originated from Mongolia, while Mongolia contributed nearly 51% (15.9 μg m−3) of the dust in the Korean Peninsula and surroundings. In southwest China, the prevalence of dust was predominantly attributable to sources within Inner Mongolia, China (46%). Due to geographical constraints, dust in the Tibetan Plateau mainly originated from dust sources in Xinjiang, China. Topographic blocking by the Tibetan Plateau and limitations on local dust emissions are further unfavorable to the long-distance transport of dust from South Asia to downstream regions. We also highlight the importance of variation in surface soil parameters in driving frequent dust events in spring 2023. Our findings emphasize the urgent need for collaborative research and policymaking to effectively address international dust disaster mitigation.
A Red Flag Threat Index Based on the Real-Time Mesoscale Analysis for Use in the Warn-on-Forecast System
Authors: Jones Thomas A. , Lindley T. Todd , Skinner Patrick , Barnes Ryan R.
Published: November 2024

The increasing frequency of high-impact wildfires has led to an emphasis on improving forecasts of the conditions that are favorable for wildfire initiation and rapid spread. The key atmospheric forecast products currently used are derived from low-level humidity and wind speed. One product that has seen widespread use by the National Weather Service (NWS) in the southern plains is known as the red flag threat index (RFTI). RFTI represents an index ranging from 0 to 10 where larger values indicate a more critical threat for favorable wildfire conditions. The current RFTI is based on 2-m humidity and 6-m wind speed climatologies from surface measurement sites located within a NWS forecast area resulting in a product that differs somewhat from office to office. RFTI forecasts are also only available from existing numerical weather prediction systems such as the Texas Tech modeling system that do not output forecasts with the temporal resolution and latency to forecast rapidly evolving environmental conditions. To address these limitations, this work describes the creation of a grid-based RFTI using a 5-yr, high-resolution (3-km, hourly) reanalysis product known as the Real-Time Mesoscale Analysis (RTMA). Using RTMA data allows for continuous wind and humidity climatology fields to be developed for a larger W-CONUS domain, potentially expanding the use of RFTI. We combine these new climatologies with forecast output from the Warn-on-Forecast System (WoFS) which provides short-term (0–6 h) probabilistic forecasts of high-impact weather over a regional domain. RFTI forecasts from examples occurring in 2022 and 2024 will be discussed as well as its evaluation in the new Fire Weather Testbed.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Geographic and Socioeconomic Vulnerabilities
Authors: Tupa Jacob M. , Row Hunter T. , Schwartz Greta C. , Matter Ashley L. , Danielson Elena J. , Sahmoun Abe E. , Haldis Thomas A. , Dyke Cornelius M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an established treatment for patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). It remains unclear whether disparities exist in rural or socially vulnerable populations undergoing TAVR. This study assessed whether outcomes differ based on geographic location or vulnerability of patients undergoing TAVR.

Methods

Patients undergoing TAVR at a single institution from August 2012 to June 2023 were studied (n = 1565). Zip codes determined Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) and measured distance to our facility. Outcomes defined by the Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 (VARC-3) included stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA)/delirium, pacemaker implantation, new atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter, and myocardial infarction (MI). Average time between preoperative coronary angiogram (CATH)/computed tomography angiography (CTA) and TAVR was calculated. Kaplan-Meier curves estimated survival probability.

Results

The average time between CATH and TAVR in patients living furthest away was ∼9 days more than patients living closest to the implant site. The average number of days between CATH and TAVR for low and high SVI were 71 and 78 days, respectively. The average number of days between CTA and TAVR for low and high SVI were 40 and 39 days, respectively.

Discussion

Further distances traveled were associated with longer wait times between preoperative workup and TAVR. Patients with longer waits between CATH and TAVR had no differences in medium-term survival probability but had decreased long-term survival probability compared to patients with rapid pre-procedural evaluation. Although geographic and socioeconomic vulnerability can disadvantage patients, our study demonstrates that patients undergoing TAVR can have timely care and similar outcomes.
Transformation of China’s Interests in the Arctic and Potential Areas for Cooperation with Russia in the Context of International Political Turbulence
Authors: Strelnikova Irina , Kharina Olga Aleksandrovna
Published: November 2024

This article examines China’s evolving role in the Arctic and the potential for Sino–Russian cooperation in the region. Recently, China has been increasingly assertive in its Arctic ambitions, engaging in partnerships and projects with various Arctic nations, including Russia. By identifying the main elements of China’s Arctic strategy—its priorities, goals and approaches—this study aims to shed light on how China seeks to expand its influence in this geopolitically significant area. Additionally, the article explores current trends in Sino–Russian relations, especially in light of the geopolitical changes and tensions that have arisen in the past two years. With a focus on sustainable development, it assesses how China and Russia might align their interests and collaborate in the Arctic. The research highlights the potential synergies between these two major international players, investigating how they could navigate shared interests, manage risks, and promote stability in the region amidst complex global challenges. By analyzing these dynamics, the article seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the strategic interplay between China and Russia in the Arctic.
Evolution and Transformation of Security Patterns in Central Asia in the Context of Chinese Institutional Building
Authors: Yermekov Alibek , Kondapalli Srikanth , Delovarova Leila
Published: November 2024

The regional security system in Central Asia is complex. The geopolitical conflict between Russia and the West around Ukraine has had a serious strategic shift in the balance of power and, as a consequence, changes in the architecture of the regional security system. Strategically, this means that Central Asia, as part of the wider post-Soviet space, is undergoing a transition from a Euro-centric to an Asia-centric model with the increasing role of China. Russia and China, as two leading geopolitical actors, have their own security patterns, and at the moment, these security patterns are evolving, in the context of the formation of new regional security mechanisms with the strengthening of the role of China as a leading regional power and security provider.
Reconceptualising Security-development Paradigm: A Critical Analysis of Chinese ‘Development Peace Model’ in the Middle East
Authors: Dawar Asif Iqbal
Published: November 2024

In recent years, China has emerged as a significant player in the intersection of international security and development in the Middle East. This development coincides with a decline in the enduring dominance of the US in the region’s security and development affairs. In contrast, China has pursued a cautious, impartial and novel concept of zero enemy policy with regional states. While existing research has explored Chinese economic engagement in the Middle East, literature focusing on the ‘Development Peace Model’ in relation to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) remains limited. This article aims to provide a critical analysis of how China’s pursuit of a multi-polar world order, based on principles of neutrality and partnership for promoting stability through the ‘Development Peace Model’, offers an alternative approach to ‘Liberal Democratic Peace’ in the Middle East. Furthermore, the article examines why Middle Eastern states are receptive to China’s ‘Development Peace Model’ as they seek to address their economic crises.
The weight of office? A scoping review of mental health issues and risk factors in elected politicians across democratic societies
Authors: Smith Alexander , Hachen Stefanie , Weinberg Ashley , Falkai Peter , Guttormsen Sissel , Liebrenz Michael
Published: November 2024

Background:

The mental health and capacity to govern of democratically-elected politicians have become burgeoning topics of interest. Notably, in fulfilling demanding and high-stress roles, political officeholders could encounter distinctive risk factors, yet existing research literature about these subpopulations remains underexplored.

Aims:

This scoping review aimed to systematically examine the breadth of available evidence on mental health issues and risk factors affecting democratically-elected politicians internationally and to identify future research needs.

Methods:

Using pre-defined eligibility criteria based on JBI guidelines, a systematic keyword search was conducted in May 2024 of MEDLINE, Scopus, and APA PsycNet, supplemented by snowballing techniques. Only those studies reporting primary, empirical evidence on mental ill-health or risk factors with psychological correlates from serving politicians in “Full” or “Flawed” democracies (per Democracy Index) were included from 1999 to 2024. Titles and abstracts were screened and the full-texts of potentially eligible literature were assessed before extraction and synthesis.

Results:

Eighteen sources met the eligibility criteria, cumulatively encompassing ~3,500 national, state, and municipal politicians across seven democracies (Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Cross-sectional surveys were predominantly utilized, with lesser use of mixed-methods approaches, qualitative interviews, and longitudinal cohorts. Violence emerged as a key concept, with twelve sources (66.7%) underlining its psychological toll and certain data indicating a disproportionate impact on female officeholders. Furthermore, four sources (22.2%) explored general psychopathology trends, revealing varying but sizeable mental ill-health and high-risk alcohol consumption rates, and two studies (11.1%) demonstrated adverse effects from specific occupational conditions.

Conclusions:

Current literature suggests that democratically-elected politicians can face complex mental health challenges. However, significant research gaps remain, including a paucity of prevalence estimates, longitudinal data, and intervention studies. Equally, the underrepresentation of most democratic countries accentuates the need for a more diverse evidence-base to better support the mental wellbeing of politicians worldwide.
Public acceptance of coercive measures in Nigerian mental health care
Authors: Aluh Deborah Oyine , Agu Daniel Ifeanyichukwu , Igbokwe Wisdom Joe , Anunwa Ifunanya Genevieve
Published: November 2024

Background:

For the first time, Nigeria has enacted a new mental health law that regulates the use of coercive measures in mental health care.

Aim:

The study aimed to investigate the extent to which the Nigerian public accepts the use of coercive measures in the treatment of people with mental health conditions and to understand the impact of stigma and other sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 615 adult respondents from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The study instrument included a case-specific vignette, a social distance scale, and a brief sociodemographic form. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted with SPSS v.25 software.

Results:

More than half of the study respondents agreed that the vignette character should be forced to go to the hospital if he refuses to go (65%, n = 400), and he should be forced to take medications at the psychiatric hospital (55.1%, n = 339). The least accepted coercive measure was Isolation (28.8%, n = 177). There were significant associations between social distance and the acceptance of involuntary admissions, forced medication, mechanical restraints, and isolation ( p < .05). Social distance score was highest among respondents who agreed that the vignette character should be isolated (24.023 ± 5.503; F = 24.672, p < .001).

Conclusions:

The study highlights variations in public attitudes toward coercive psychiatric measures, within the Nigerian context compared to other countries. The lower acceptance rates for isolation as a coercive measure underscore the cultural importance of social interaction in Nigeria. The relatively recent implementation of Nigeria’s Mental Health Act also suggests a potential gap in public knowledge regarding the criteria for coercive measures. Future research should aim to include diverse populations and consider longitudinal approaches to assess changes in public attitudes as awareness of mental health legislation increases.
Global, Regional, and Country-Level Economic Impacts of Oral Conditions in 2019
Authors: Jevdjevic M. , Listl S.
Published: November 2024

The recent World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Health Resolution and the subsequent WHO Global Oral Health Action Plan highlight the key relevance of providing information on the economic impacts of oral conditions. The purpose of this study was to provide updated estimates for the global, regional, and country-level economic impacts of oral conditions in 2019. Extending previously established methods, dental expenditures (costs for treatments) and productivity losses for 5 oral conditions (caries in deciduous and permanent teeth, periodontitis, edentulism, other oral diseases) were estimated for the year 2019. The estimated total worldwide economic impacts of oral conditions in 2019 were US $710B, of which US $387B (US $327B to US $404B) was due to direct costs and US $323B (US $186 to US $460) was due to productivity losses for the 5 main oral conditions. Low-income countries spent an average of US $0.52 (US $0.22 to US $0.96) per capita on dental care, while high-income countries spent an average of US $260 (US $257 to US $268) per capita—a 500-fold difference. These findings suggest that oral conditions continue to substantiate an enormous economic burden to individuals and society. The comprehensiveness of estimates supersedes that of previous work as the primary information on direct costs was identified for a larger number of countries. The need for more and better routine reporting and monitoring of the economic impact of oral conditions is emphasized. The relevance of such information is also highlighted by its inclusion in the first-ever WHO Global Oral Health Status Report and Global Strategy on Oral health 2023 to 2030. Given the persistently high economic burden of oral conditions, there is a key role for better prioritization of cost-efficient oral health programs as well as needs-responsive capacity planning.
Word Choice Affects Social Judgments: Relational Messages Containing Low-Frequency Words Get Low Evaluations
Authors: Alban Michael W.
Published: November 2024

Prior research found a word complexity effect: Authors who use complex words are less favorably received when writing academic essays, business letters, and other relatively formal communications. The present study tested if word choice affects evaluations of messages between friends (Experiments 1-2) and spoken messages (Experiment 2). Three widespread dimensions of social judgments were studied – namely, persuasiveness, competence, and sincerity. Participants read/heard messages that varied (between-participants) by ordinary versus low-frequency words ( sad vs. forlorn). Messages containing low-frequency words (mostly) received lower evaluations. Most importantly, word choice effects in messages between friends were consistently found – for both written and spoken language. Feedback analysis (Experiment 2) revealed that the overuse of “big vocabulary” conflicts with conscious social beliefs regarding ways to communicate, showing that social judgments spring from a combination of conscious social beliefs and the relatively unconscious influence of fluency.
What Instigates the Feeling of Monday Blues Among Employees
Authors: Joshi Anjali , Patil Vaishali , Nagwekar Prachi
Published: November 2024

The present research aims to explore the factors that contribute to the feeling of Monday Blues among employees in medium and top-level management positions across various industries in Mumbai (India). Fourteen facets were identified from the responses of 50 employees, which were used to finalize the contents of a questionnaire. Data was collected from 181 employees, and Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed three main factors: motivation to work, work environment, and work stress. These factors were then used as independent variables in a regression analysis with Monday Blues as the dependent variable. The results showed that motivation to work and work environment had an inverse impact on Monday Blues, while work stress had a direct impact on feelings of the Monday Blues.
The unequal spread of digital neighbourhood platforms in urban neighbourhoods: A multilevel analysis of socio-demographic predictors and their relation to neighbourhood social capital
Authors: Oberwittler Dietrich , Natter Lisa
Published: November 2024

Digital neighbourhood platforms (DNPs) – also called online neighbourhood networks or neighbourhood social networks – are still a relatively novel phenomenon, and little is known about their actual reach among citizens and about neighbourhood conditions which foster or impede their spread. We consider DNPs as a digital extension of conventional neighbourhood social capital and analyse their spread in comparison with the latter using a recent community survey in two large German cities with a probability sample of 2900 respondents in 139 neighbourhoods. The analysis is guided by the scholarly discussion on the potential of DNPs to reduce current inequalities in the distribution of social capital. The results showed that 18% of respondents in Cologne and 12% of respondents in Essen have used DNPs. Multilevel analyses revealed a strong negative association of neighbourhood ethnic diversity with user rates, in parallel to the same negative effect on conventional neighbourhood social capital. It is therefore reasonable to assume that pre-existing inequalities in social capital are replicated by DNPs. On the individual level, the use of DNPs was less dependent on strong social bonds than on conventional social capital. Comparing respondents who use DNPs to those who do not, the former group proves to be socially more connected, more trusting and more satisfied with their neighbourhoods.
“I Get So Mad Cause We Ain’t Got No Freedom”: Black Women, Rage, and the Harlem Uprising of 1943
Authors: Kelly Bridget Laramie
Published: November 2024

In the early evening of August 1, 1943, a New York City police officer arrested Marjorie Polite at the Braddock Hotel. Polite’s arrest created an expansive political moment for shortly after her arrest, some 3,000 New Yorkers deployed upon 125th Street. Over the course of the next two days and in their shared rage, a group of Black Harlemites targeted white-owned businesses which culminated in 500 physical injuries, at least six deaths, a reported 5 million dollars in property damages, and 623 arrests at the height of World War II. What do the stories of five ordinary women, each with different relationships to Harlem and the uprising, tell us about Black women’s experience in mid-twentieth century urban America? Using the biographical vignettes of Black women arrested in connection with the Harlem uprising, this article examines popular protest and property destruction as a feminine form of rage.
Autonomous orbit maintenance takeover control of ultra-low orbit spacecraft with event-triggered mechanism
Authors: Ning Kai , Wu Baolin
Published: November 2024

In this paper, the problem of high-precision autonomous orbit maintenance takeover control of ultra-low orbit (ULO) spacecraft with event-triggered mechanism (ETM) and tangential continuous low thrust is addressed. First, the ETM I is proposed to reduce the communication burden between Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) cellular satellite and controller cellular satellite. Second, a fuzzy adaptive controller is proposed to maintain the orbit altitude of the ULO spacecraft. Furthermore, the ETM II is provided to ensure that the control thrust changes infrequently to extend the lifetime of electric thrust cellular satellite. In addition, the ETM II can lighten the communication burden between controller cellular satellite and electric thrust cellular satellite. By combining fuzzy adaptive control method and ETMs, the ETM-based fuzzy adaptive controller is established. Finally, the simulation is provided to verify the effectiveness of the developed control method.
Advanced hybrid control for induction motor combining ANN-PID speed controller with neural predictive current regulator based on particle swarm optimization
Authors: Rafia Hassan , Ouadi Hamid , Giri Fouad , El Bhiri Brahim
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a hybrid control strategy for an induction motor (IM) organized into two nested loops. In the outer loop, an adaptive artificial neural network-based proportional-integral-derivative (ANN-PID) controller is used for speed control. The ANN-PID is divided into two stages: the first stage includes an adaptive ANN speed estimator, and the second stage includes an adaptation algorithm that fine-tunes both the weights and biases of the ANN estimator and the parameters of the PID controller. In the internal loop, a predictive current controller is used to control IM currents using neural networks. Specifically, the neural predictive controller (NPC) approaches the control problem by presenting it as an optimization problem using a neural predictor for IM currents. The considered objective function includes two elements: the current tracking error and the electromagnetic torque ripple. This function is computed over a given time horizon informed by predictions of IM currents. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is applied to determine the optimal solution for this optimization task. The effectiveness of the hybrid control scheme is demonstrated by simulation results obtained using Matlab/Simulink, highlighting its superiority over conventional control methods. The proposed hybrid control is characterized by a reduction in torque ripple and overshoot, while also showing robustness to variations in load, rotor resistance, and rotor inductance. Comparisons with an ANN controller and a fuzzy PI controller further demonstrate the superior performance of the hybrid controller in handling nonlinear dynamics and maintaining control accuracy under various operating scenarios.
Optimizing PIλDμ controller parameters using tree seed optimization for enhanced control performance and stability
Authors: Govind KR Achu , Mahapatra Subhasish
Published: November 2024

This research article exploits the tree seed optimization algorithm to optimize the parameters of the fractional-order proportional–integral–derivative (FOPID) controller. The study focuses on designing an FOPID controller by imposing constraints on both the performance metrics and closed-loop amplitude ratio to achieve enhanced control system performance. The tree seed algorithm is inspired by the growth and reproductive behavior of trees and demonstrates its efficacy in finding optimal solutions within constrained search spaces. The optimization process involves formulating an objective function subject to the constraints on performance metrics and closed-loop amplitude ratio, reflecting both tracking performance and stability. Besides, inverted decoupling is used to reduce the interaction between the control loops and enable individual tuning of each loop for improved performance. Besides, the smallest disc perturbation is employed to determine the system’s stability. The proposed approach is implemented in various industrial processes to demonstrate its effectiveness in achieving desirable performance. The tree seed algorithm efficiently navigates the parameter space, thereby converging to ideal FOPID controller configurations that meet the specified constraints. Comparative studies with other methods highlight the improved performance and robustness obtained by the tree seed–based FOPID controller.