bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The spatiotemporal effect of sea surface temperature on the seasonal migrations of the bonnethead, Sphyrna tiburo
Authors: Keller Bryan A. , Frazier Bryan S. , Grubbs R. Dean
Published: December 2024

To better understand the effects of climatic variation on migratory behavior, we used passive acoustic telemetry to track the migrations of 44 bonnetheads, Sphyrna tiburo, tagged in the North Edisto River, South Carolina. We monitored individuals for up to 2804 days along ~ 1070 km of United States Atlantic coastline. The majority of these sharks exhibited strong site fidelity and returned annually, residing in the estuary from April to November. Climatic migrations occurred annually and overwintering habitats were located in nearshore Atlantic waters from Georgia to central Florida. Given the strong site fidelity, we were able to measure the distance and timing of migration and assess, for the first time to our knowledge, the interannual effects of climatic variation on the return migrations of individual sharks. We found that shark size and winter sea surface temperature had significant effects on the migration distance of female S. tiburo, the latter also contributing to interannual variation in migration duration and the date of arrival to overwintering areas. These data suggest that overwintering habitats are selected, at least in part, based on thermal preference or tolerance and not solely physical location. These results indicate that climate change may affect both the timing and distance of migrations for migratory sharks and highlight the benefit of maintaining long-term longitudinal datasets for studying complex animal behavior.
Nuclear error phenotypes in the two-cell embryo are correlated to blastocyst formation rate after assisted reproduction
Authors: Stenberg Amanda , Baumgart Juliane , Adolfsson Emma
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Map the nuclear error phenotypes in the two-cell embryo after assisted reproduction using time lapse images and the effect on good quality blastocyst formation.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using time lapse images, categorizing 2331 two-cell embryos from 392 patient couples and 504 ART cycles categorizing each embryo as mononucleated, multinucleated, micronucleated, binucleated, split nucleation or mixed error. Correlating nuclear error phenotype with good quality blastocyst formation rate (BFR) using contingency tables and unadjusted odds ratio.

Results

An overall nuclear error rate of 47.1% was observed in two-cell embryos. The most frequent error was multi-nucleation (14.2%) followed by mixed error (11%), micro-nucleation (8.6%), bi-nucleation (7.4%) and split nucleation (5.8%). Blastocyst formation rate (BFR) was reduced in embryos with nuclear errors, 46.2% for embryos with one cell affected, 27.6% for embryos with both cells affected, compared to 58.6% for mononucleated cells, p < 0.001 for both. Binucleated embryos were as likely as mononucleated embryos to become clinically useful blastocysts (56.8% vs 58.6%, n.s., unadjusted OR 0.94), whereas all the other phenotypes were less likely to develop into good quality blastocysts. The worst outcome was noted for embryos with split nucleation, with just 12.4% BFR, OR 0.12 (0–08-0.21), p < 0.001.

Conclusion

Nuclear errors are common at the two-cell stage. Overall, presence of nuclear errors reduces the likelihood of becoming good quality blastocysts. Both the number of affected cells and the different nuclear error phenotypes have impact on blastocyst formation rate, except binucleated embryos.
Adaptive velocity control for UAV boat landing: A neural network and particle swarm optimization approach
Authors: Wu Li-Fan , Wang Zihan , Rastgaar Mo , Mahmoudian Nina
Published: December 2024

Achieving precise landing of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) onto moving platforms, such as Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs), is challenging, particularly in GPS-denied environments with dynamic disturbances. Conventional methods often rely on high-level waypoint navigation, extensive manual tuning, and expensive sensors. In this work, we propose an adaptive Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller optimization using a Neural Network-Particle Swarm Optimization (NN-PSO) algorithm. The algorithm dynamically tunes the PID controller, significantly reducing manual tuning effort, while relying solely on a low-cost camera and altitude sensor. The NN-PSO algorithm allows the UAV to land with an average error of 5 cm on static platforms and 10 cm on moving boats, based on multiple test flights. Our method also increases the maximum landing speed to 80.9% of the UAV’s top flight speed, a considerable improvement over existing systems. Our approach not only optimizes landing precision but also introduces techniques for ensuring soft landings, reducing oscillations, and preventing target misses. These enhancements make the method robust across varying flight altitudes and ASV speeds. Furthermore, this approach is applicable to a variety of GPS-denied scenarios, including rescue missions, package deliveries, and workspace inspections, without requiring costly equipment or extensive parameter tuning. Field experiments confirm the precision and stability of the proposed system, validating its performance in real-world conditions. [Video]
Jets Downstream of Collisionless Shocks: Recent Discoveries and Challenges
Authors: Krämer Eva , Koller Florian , Suni Jonas , LaMoury Adrian T. , Pöppelwerth Adrian , Glebe Georg , Mohammed-Amin Tara , Raptis Savvas , Vuorinen Laura , Weiss Stefan , Xirogiannopoulou Niki , Archer Martin , Blanco-Cano Xóchitl , Gunell Herbert , Hietala Heli , Karlsson Tomas , Plaschke Ferdinand , Preisser Luis , Roberts Owen , Simon Wedlund Cyril , Temmer Manuela , Vörös Zoltán
Published: December 2024

Plasma flows with enhanced dynamic pressure, known as magnetosheath jets, are often found downstream of collisionless shocks. As they propagate through the magnetosheath, they interact with the surrounding plasma, shaping its properties, and potentially becoming geoeffective upon reaching the magnetopause. In recent years (since 2016), new research has produced vital results that have significantly enhanced our understanding on many aspects of jets. In this review, we summarise and discuss these findings. Spacecraft and ground-based observations, as well as global and local simulations, have contributed greatly to our understanding of the causes and effects of magnetosheath jets. First, we discuss recent findings on jet occurrence and formation, including in other planetary environments. New insights into jet properties and evolution are then examined using observations and simulations. Finally, we review the impact of jets upon interaction with the magnetopause and subsequent consequences for the magnetosphere-ionosphere system. We conclude with an outlook and assessment on future challenges. This includes an overview on future space missions that may prove crucial in tackling the outstanding open questions on jets in the terrestrial magnetosheath as well as other planetary and shock environments.
Three Rich-Lexicon Theories of Slurs: A Comparison
Authors: Zeman Dan
Published: December 2024

Many authors writing on slurs think that they are lexically rich, in the sense that their lexical meaning comprises both a descriptive dimension and an expressive/evaluative one, the latter accounting for their derogatory character. However, more fine-grained theories of slurs have recently been proposed, drawing on frameworks from lexical semantics. My main aim in this paper is to compare three such fine-grained rich-lexicon theories—the one put forward by myself in previous work with two similar ones, Croom’s (2011, 2013) and Neufeld’s (2019, 2022). While my primary aim is to underlie the commonalities and differences between the three views, I also aim at showing that the latter views have some issues that are easily avoided in the framework I propose.
On How to Determine Surface Roughness Power Spectra
Authors: Rodriguez N. , Gontard L. , Ma C. , Xu R. , Persson B. N. J.
Published: December 2024

Analytical contact mechanics theories depend on surface roughness through the surface roughness power spectrum. In the present study, we evaluated the usability of various experimental methods for studying surface roughness. Our findings indicated that height data obtained from optical methods often lack accuracy and should not be utilized for calculating surface roughness power spectra. Conversely, engineering stylus instruments and atomic force microscopy (AFM) typically yield reliable results that are consistent across the overlapping roughness length scale region. For surfaces with isotropic roughness, the two-dimensional (2D) power spectrum can be derived from the one-dimensional (1D) power spectrum using several approaches, which we explored in this paper.

Graphical Abstract
Validation of quantitative [18F]NaF PET uptake parameters in bone diseases: a systematic review
Authors: de Ruiter Ruben D. , Zwama Jolien , Raijmakers Pieter G. H. M. , Yaqub Maqsood , Burchell George L. , Boellaard Ronald , Lammertsma Adriaan A. , Eekhoff Elisabeth M. W.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

[18F]NaF PET has become an increasingly important tool in clinical practice toward understanding and evaluating diseases and conditions in which bone metabolism is disrupted. Full kinetic analysis using nonlinear regression (NLR) with a two-tissue compartment model to determine the net rate of influx (K

i
) of [18F]NaF is considered the gold standard for quantification of [18F]NaF uptake. However, dynamic scanning often is impractical in a clinical setting, leading to the development of simplified semi-quantitative parameters. This systematic review investigated which uptake parameters have been used to evaluate bone disorders and how they have been validated to measure disease activity.

Methods

A literature search (in PubMed, Embase.com, and Clarivate Analytics/Web of Science Core Collection) was performed up to 28th November 2023, in collaboration with an information specialist. Each database was searched for relevant literature regarding the use of [18F]NAF PET/CT to measure disease activity in bone-related disorders. The main aim was to explore whether the reported semi-quantitative uptake values were validated against full kinetic analysis. A second aim was to investigate whether the chosen uptake parameter correlated with a disease-specific outcome or marker, validating its use as a clinical outcome or disease marker.

Results

The initial search included 1636 articles leading to 92 studies spanning 29 different bone-related conditions in which [18F]NaF PET was used to quantify [18F]NaF uptake. In 12 bone-related disorders, kinetic analysis was performed and compared with simplified uptake parameters. SUVmean (standardized uptake value) and SUVmax were used most frequently, though normalization of these values varied greatly between studies. In some disorders, various studies were performed evaluating [18F]NaF uptake as a marker of bone metabolism, but unfortunately, not all studies used this same approach, making it difficult to compare results between those studies.

Conclusion

When using [18F]NaF PET to evaluate disease activity or treatment response in various bone-related disorders, it is essential to detail scanning protocols and analytical procedures. The most accurate outcome parameter can only be obtained through kinetic analysis and is better suited for research. Simplified uptake parameters are better suited for routine clinical practice and repeated measurements.
A framework for optimal portfolios with sustainable assets and climate scenarios
Authors: Korn Ralf
Published: December 2024

With the increasing impact of global warming and climate change, governments must take actions to reduce $$\text {CO}_2$$

CO
2

output and to encourage more environmentally friendly industrial processes. As the use of climate scenarios is the common method in illustrating possible consequences of the climate changes, we assume that it will also be the basis for political decisions with respect to future sustainability requirements on companies and thus (directly or indirectly) for sustainability constraints for life insurance companies and pension funds. Hence, we assume that bonus/malus measures by the government will already be laid out conditioned on the finally realized climate scenario. We will therefore present a corresponding framework for optimal investment under agreed government measures for the realization of future climate scenarios. This framework is particularly suited for strategies of large institutional investors such as life insurances. It will also be illustrated by explicit examples.
Multi-variate hybrid modeling for pacific ocean acidification: predicting future pH trends and analyzing key biogeochemical drivers
Authors: Vasanth K. , Kishore R. K. , Sugumaran Vijayan , Krishnamoorthy Raja , Ramdas Rithvik , Tadepalli Satya Kiranmai
Published: December 2024

Ocean acidification, driven by rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, poses a significant threat to the health of marine ecosystems, particularly in the Pacific Ocean. This study employs a multi-variate hybrid machine learning approach to predict future pH trends within the Pacific and to analyze the influence of key biogeochemical drivers on these trends. Hybrid models, strategically combining the strengths of individual algorithms, were developed for predicting several ocean acidification parameters. A performance analysis demonstrated the superior accuracy of hybrid models compared to their counterparts. The predicted pH trends reveal a concerning shift towards increased acidity within the Pacific Ocean, highlighting the urgency of understanding and mitigating its impacts. In-depth analysis was conducted to identify the relative influence of key biogeochemical factors on the changing pH dynamics. This research aims to provide crucial insights for developing targeted mitigation strategies and protecting the vulnerable ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean from the escalating consequences of ocean acidification.
Impact of dementia and mild cognitive impairment on bone health in older people
Authors: Curtis Elizabeth M. , Miguel Mario , McEvoy Claire , Ticinesi Andrea , Torre Carla , Al-Daghri Nasser , Alokail Majed , Bałkowiec-Iskra Ewa , Bruyère Olivier , Burlet Nansa , Cavalier Etienne , Cerreta Francesca , Clark Patricia , Cherubini Antonio , Cooper Cyrus , D’Amelio Patrizia , Fuggle Nicholas , Gregson Celia , Halbout Philippe , Kanis John A. , Kaufman Jean , Laslop Andrea , Maggi Stefania , Maier Andrea , Matijevic Radmila , McCloskey Eugene , Ormarsdóttir Sif , Yerro Concha Prieto , Radermecker Régis P. , Rolland Yves , Singer Andrea , Veronese Nicola , Rizzoli René , Reginster Jean-Yves , Harvey Nicholas C.
Published: December 2024

Mild cognitive impairment, dementia and osteoporosis are common diseases of ageing and, with the increasingly ageing global population, are increasing in prevalence. These conditions are closely associated, with shared risk factors, common underlying biological mechanisms and potential direct causal pathways. In this review, the epidemiological and mechanistic links between mild cognitive impairment, dementia and skeletal health are explored. Discussion will focus on how changes in brain and bone signalling can underly associations between these conditions, and will consider the molecular and cellular drivers in the context of inflammation and the gut microbiome. There is a complex interplay between nutritional changes, which may precede or follow the onset of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia, and bone health. Polypharmacy is common in patients with MCI or dementia, and there are difficult prescribing decisions to be made due to the elevated risk of falls associated with many drugs used for associated problems, which can consequently increase fracture risk. Some medications prescribed for cognitive impairment may directly impact bone health. In addition, patients may have difficulty remembering medication without assistance, meaning that osteoporosis drugs may be prescribed but not taken. Cognitive impairment may be improved or delayed by physical activity and exercise, and there is evidence for the additional benefits of physical activity on falls and fractures. Research gaps and priorities with the aim of reducing the burden of osteoporosis and fractures in people with MCI or dementia will also be discussed.
Association between social engagement decline and cognitive function changes: mediating effect of depressive symptoms
Authors: Ni Ping , Chen Hongxiu , Hu Xiuying
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive decline is a significant public health problem worldwide, but little is known about social engagement’s impact on cognitive changes over time. This study aimed to explore the relationship between social engagement decline and cognitive function change in Chinese adults, and to analyze the effect of changes in depressive symptoms on this relationship.

Methods

Participants were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Multiple linear regression was conducted to determine the association between social engagement decline and cognitive function changes, and a three-step method was used to test the mediating role of changes in depressive symptoms.

Results

During the four-year follow-up, participants’ overall cognitive function decreased by an average of 0.41 points (3.0%). The decline in social engagement was significantly associated with subsequent poorer global cognitive function (Model 1: β = − 0.060, P =.005; Model 2: β = − 0.056, P =.009), and changes in depressive symptoms partially mediated this effect, accounting for 15.3% of the total effect in Model 1 and 13.8% in Model 2. Model 1 adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, and Model 2 adjusted for health-related factors based on Model 1.

Conclusion

When developing programs for cognitive improvement in middle-aged and older adults, measures to enhance social engagement should be considered. This may not only reduce depressive symptoms but also help to minimize cognitive decline.
Artificial Intelligence and Terrestrial Point Clouds for Forest Monitoring
Authors: Kulicki Maksymilian , Cabo Carlos , Trzciński Tomasz , Będkowski Janusz , Stereńczak Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

Purpose of Review

This paper provides an overview of integrating artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL), with ground-based LiDAR point clouds for forest monitoring. It identifies trends, highlights advancements, and discusses future directions for AI-supported forest monitoring.

Recent Findings

Recent studies indicate that DL models significantly outperform traditional machine learning methods in forest inventory tasks using terrestrial LiDAR data. Key advancements have been made in areas such as semantic segmentation, which involves labeling points corresponding to different vegetation structures (e.g., leaves, branches, stems), individual tree segmentation, and species classification. Main challenges include a lack of standardized evaluation metrics, limited code and data sharing, and reproducibility issues. A critical issue is the need for extensive reference data, which hinders the development and evaluation of robust AI models. Solutions such as the creation of large-scale benchmark datasets and the use of synthetic data generation are proposed to address these challenges. Promising AI paradigms like Graph Neural Networks, semi-supervised learning, self-supervised learning, and generative modeling have shown potential but are not yet fully explored in forestry applications.

The review underscores the transformative role of AI, particularly DL, in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of forest monitoring using ground-based 3D point clouds. To advance the field, there is a critical need for comprehensive benchmark datasets, open-access policies for data and code, and the exploration of novel DL architectures and learning paradigms. These steps are essential for improving research reproducibility, facilitating comparative studies, and unlocking new insights into forest management and conservation.
Refitting the Context: A Reconsideration of Cultural Change among Early Homo sapiens at Fumane Cave through Blade Break Connections, Spatial Taphonomy, and Lithic Technology
Authors: Falcucci Armando , Giusti Domenico , Zangrossi Filippo , De Lorenzi Matteo , Ceregatti Letizia , Peresani Marco
Published: December 2024

High-resolution stratigraphic frameworks are crucial for unraveling the biocultural processes behind the dispersals of Homo sapiens across Europe. Detailed technological studies of lithic assemblages retrieved from multi-stratified sequences allow archaeologists to precisely model the chrono-cultural dynamics of the early Upper Paleolithic. However, it is of paramount importance to verify the integrity of these assemblages before building explanatory models of cultural change. In this study, multiple lines of evidence suggest that the stratigraphic sequence of Fumane Cave in northeastern Italy experienced minor post-depositional reworking, establishing it as a pivotal site for exploring the earliest stages of the Aurignacian. By conducting a systematic search for break connections between blade fragments and applying spatial analysis techniques, we identified three well-preserved areas of the excavation containing assemblages suitable for renewed archaeological investigations. Subsequent technological analyses, incorporating attribute analysis, reduction intensity, and multivariate statistics, have allowed us to discern the spatial organization of the site during the formation of the Protoaurignacian palimpsest A2–A1. Moreover, diachronic comparisons between three successive stratigraphic units prompted us to reject the hypothesis of techno-cultural continuity of the Protoaurignacian in northeastern Italy after the onset of the Heinrich Event 4. Based on the variability of the lithic and osseous artifacts, the most recent assemblage analyzed, D3b alpha, is now ascribed to the Early Aurignacian, aligning the evidence from Fumane with the current understanding of the development of the Aurignacian across Europe. Overall, this study demonstrates the high effectiveness of the break connection method when combined with detailed spatial analysis and lithic technology, providing a methodological tool particularly amenable to be applied to sites excavated in the past with varying degrees of recording accuracy.
A Wireless, Wearable Ultrasound for Assessing Left Ventricular Assist Device Hemodynamics: A Case Series
Authors: Kenny Jon-Emile S. , Horner Christine , Elfarnawany Mai , Yang Zhen , Eibl Andrew M. , Eibl Joseph K. , Sajgalik Pavol , Schettle Sarah D. , Stulak John M. , Clavell Alfredo L. , Johnson Bruce D.
Published: December 2024

Optimizing left ventricular assist device (LVAD)–patient interaction is important. This is typically accomplished via an outpatient ramp test, monitored by echocardiography and/or invasive measures. We have developed a wireless, wearable Doppler ultrasound that we hypothesized would detect relatively small (i.e., ± 5%) changes in LVAD pump speed (Rpm∆) with the patient in the upright position. From the wearable ultrasound, peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), total velocity time integral (VTI), Doppler pulsatility index, and the internal jugular vein spectrum were synchronously captured. Rpm∆ was best reflected in the EDV and Doppler pulsatility index, whereas the PSV and total VTI showed variable responses. The internal jugular spectrum of one patient was consistent with high central venous pressure throughout the procedure. A wireless, wearable Doppler ultrasound synchronously insonating the common carotid artery and internal jugular vein provides novel and promising insights during LVAD Rpm∆.
Transplantation eines lateralen humanen Spendermeniskus
Authors: Di Maria Fabrizio , Scheffler Sven
Published: December 2024

Der Außenmeniskus spielt eine zentrale Rolle für die Stabilität, Funktion und Belastbarkeit des Knies. Die Behandlung von Patienten, die sich einer totalen oder segmentalen lateralen Meniskektomie unterzogen haben, stellt eine Herausforderung dar, insbesondere bei jungen und aktiven Patienten. Im Großen und Ganzen ist die Wirksamkeit der Meniskustransplantation (MAT) inzwischen weithin als ein akzeptiertes Verfahren anerkannt, das zur Schmerzlinderung und Wiederherstellung der Funktion führt. Das Hauptproblem des langfristigen Therapieerfolges ist die sukzessive Transplantatextrusion. Es gibt verschiedene chirurgische Verfahren der lateralen MAT, die versuchen, diese Problematik zu adressieren.

In diesem Artikel wird eine neue Variante der arthroskopisch assistierten lateralen MAT unter Verwendung einer Kombination von Wurzelrefixation, transtibialer Rekonstruktion der meniskotibialen Verankerung und Weichteilfixierungen vorgestellt. Zu diesem Zweck wird eine Vier-Punkt-Fixierung verwendet, um die Anatomie und Biomechanik des meniskotibialen Gelenks wiederherzustellen. Zusätzlich wird die postoperative Rehabilitation detailliert beschrieben.
The influence of zonal air supply on thermal comfort in a classroom located in a hot and humid environment: a case study from Jeddah—Saudi Arabia
Authors: Jastaneyah Zuhair , Kamar Haslinda Mohamed , Hashmi Ahmad , Ghaleb F. A. , Al Garalleh Hakim
Published: December 2024

In hot and humid regions, many classrooms depend on air conditioning systems equipped with mixing ventilation to maintain acceptable indoor temperatures. However, this method often proves inadequate in delivering satisfactory thermal comfort due to elevated temperature and poor air distribution. This research explores the potential of zonal air supply strategies to enhance thermal comfort in a classroom situated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. During July 2024, field data—including measurements of airflow velocity, air temperature, relative humidity, and globe temperature—were collected to find key thermal comfort indices: Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD). In addition, a survey was administered to assess students’ thermal perceptions. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were utilized to predict air temperature, velocity, and humidity distribution, evaluating the impact of zonal air supply designs on thermal comfort within the classroom. Parametric analysis was used to identify the most effective zonal air supply configuration for reducing PMV and PPD values. The findings show that, under existing ventilation conditions, PMV and PPD indices at different heights exceed the recommended limits established by ASHRAE Standard-55, indicating thermal discomfort during peak temperature periods. Further investigation demonstrated that introducing a 4-zonal air supply system could reduce PMV by 16–32% and PPD by 32–36%, thereby significantly improving thermal comfort in the classroom.
AI ethics unwrapped: an empirical investigation of ethical principles in collaborative ideation processes
Authors: Cociancig Christina , Heuer Hendrik , Breiter Andreas
Published: December 2024

Motivated by ongoing criticism of the practical operationalization of ethical principles in artificial intelligence (AI) development, this study targets the ethical practice of AI developers in Germany. We focus on design as a key technological practice and developers as designers of AI-based systems when we investigate the socially, historically, and contextually influenced practice of AI ethics in the design process. We embed our methodology in value sensitive design (VSD), conduct design thinking workshops prototyping AI tools for hypothetical use cases, and ground our analysis on established ethical guidelines for AI. The results of this study reveal not only awareness of ethical principles in developers, more importantly, a strong influence of ethics on design decisions. Developers adapt their designs with technical interventions in favor of those using and being affected by their solutions. Our contribution is threefold: we establish a fine-grained categorization system of ethical principles based on AI ethics guidelines and VSD. We corroborate previous empirical research examining the prompted and self-reported influence and prioritization of ethical principles. Finally, we synthesize our findings with tangible design recommendations for AI ethics by design. We focus on recommendations for human involvement, privacy, and non-discrimination: encourage participatory AI design and avoid end-to-end automation in cases where humans are impacted; empower developers to integrate technical interventions from the onset of the design process to establish AI privacy by design; and support developers in emphasizing non-discriminatory AI, especially in contexts historically associated with discrimination.
Inquiring About the Future: The Rationality of Hopefulness
Authors: Vazard Juliette
Published: December 2024

What is epistemically required of the rationally hopeful? In this paper, I propose that, as a subject becomes hopeful that p, she also adopts an inquiring attitude toward the question of whether p. Moreover, remaining rationally hopeful requires maintaining an inquiring attitude toward those possibilities we are hopeful about. On top of being led by a particular practical goal (that of attaining p), I suggest that the hopeful agent is also led by the epistemic goal of knowing whether p. Adding the “inquiry” criteria to rational hopefulness helps explain our intuition that there is something wrong with being hopeful that p and not disposed to inquire into whether p. It also helps us further distinguish hopefulness from other positive attitudes we adopt in the face of uncertainty, such as optimism, and faith.
Impact of diagnostic stewardship on catheter-associated urinary tract infections and patient outcomes
Authors: Sansom Sarah E. , Goldstein Audrey , Stein Brian D. , Schoeny Michael E. , Seguin Alexandra , Kniuksta Ruth , Tomich Alexander , Hayden Mary K. , Lin Michael Y. , Segreti John
Published: December 2024

Background:

Diagnostic stewardship of urine cultures from patients with indwelling urinary catheters may improve diagnostic specificity and clinical relevance of the test, but risk of patient harm is uncertain.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated the impact of a computerized clinical decision support tool to promote institutional appropriateness criteria (neutropenia, kidney transplant, recent urologic surgery, or radiologic evidence of urinary tract obstruction) for urine cultures from patients with an indwelling urinary catheter. The primary outcome was a change in catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rate from baseline (34 mo) to intervention period (30 mo, including a 2-mo wash-in period). We analyzed patient-level outcomes and adverse events.

Results:

Adjusted CAUTI rate decreased from 1.203 to 0.75 per 1,000 catheter-days (P = 0.52). Of 598 patients triggering decision support, 284 (47.5%) urine cultures were collected in agreement with institutional criteria and 314 (52.5%) were averted. Of 314 patients whose urine cultures were averted, 2 had a subsequent urine culture within 7 days that resulted in a change in antimicrobial therapy and 2 had diagnosis of bacteremia with suspected urinary source, but there were no delays in effective treatment.

Conclusion:

A diagnostic stewardship intervention was associated with an approximately 50% decrease in urine culture testing for inpatients with a urinary catheter. However, the overall CAUTI rate did not decrease significantly. Adverse outcomes were rare and minor among patients who had a urine culture averted. Diagnostic stewardship may be safe and effective as part of a multimodal program to reduce unnecessary urine cultures among patients with indwelling urinary catheters.
The drivers of multilevel governance as a mode of policymaking: the case of asylum-seekers' reception in Italy
Authors: Caponio Tiziana , Pettrachin Andrea , Ponzo Irene
Published: December 2024

This article analyses modes of policymaking related to asylum-seekers' reception in Italy and other European Union (EU) countries during the decade of the so-called 2015 asylum crisis. It shows that, while most EU countries experienced shifts towards more hierarchical modes of policymaking on asylum, Italy pursued a unique experience of multilevel governance (MLG) between 2014 and 2016, which was then dismantled in 2017. By looking at this MLG experience as a ‘heuristic case’, the article contributes to an ongoing debate about the drivers of MLG as a mode of policymaking. The existing literature suggests that MLG modes of policymaking are driven by institutional and structural factors or pressure by subnational and supranational actors for more participatory policymaking processes. Complementing and challenging these theoretical explanations we generate some hypotheses about additional factors that drive the emergence and dismantling of MLG. First, we argue that both supranational actors and subnational authorities, typically considered to be agents promoting MLG, can also advocate for more hierarchical modes of policymaking. Second, we argue that a fundamental prerequisite for MLG to emerge or persist is an overall convergence of political priorities and goals among the actors involved in multilevel policymaking. Both the kind of pressures made by supranational and subnational actors and actors' political priorities can be decisively shaped by dynamics of multilevel party politics. These findings are derived from analyses of 147 interviews with key actors involved in Italian asylum policymaking in the 2010s.
A Disrupting Strategic Metal: The Norwegian Aluminium Industry Meets World War II
Authors: Sogner Knut
Published: December 2024

This article offers a new interpretation of the coming of state ownership in aluminium-related big businesses in Norway. It shows that the Norwegian aluminium business of the late 1930s and the 1940s was undertaken by a Scandinavian business elite fully capable of filling capital requirements after the war. This elite had, however, entangled itself in the German war effort in Norway mainly by supporting the building of new aluminium plants under the German occupiers’ control. This left it morally vulnerable to the increasing emphasis during the war on aluminium as a strategic metal. The Allied war effort—especially evident in US attitudes—had come to see the cartelized aluminium industry of the 1930s as working against the national interest by impacting national production capacity in a negative way. The Allies bombed the major new plant in Norway in 1943, and after the war the US acted restrictively toward Norwegian capital assets in the US. By pursuing ownership after 1945, the Norwegian state performed strategic ownership roles in large corporations, thereby also protecting these entities from the possible wrath of the US against private owners.
Consecrated Things and Places: Visitation and Sacralisation in the Jacobean Church
Authors: KELLY MICHAEL B.
Published: December 2024

Jacobean visitation articles reveal increasing anxiety about preserving sacred space and material things from profane use. New churches and churchyards were consecrated by novel rites as sacred space was increasingly prioritised and emphasised in visitation. More and more prelates labelled the church building ‘the house of God’. By 1612, the archbishop of Canterbury's metropolitical visitation articles identified ecclesiastical space and furniture, notably the communion table, as ‘consecrated’ to God. English prelates widely adopted this sacralising rhetoric. These innovations originate not in the prescriptions of avant-garde prelates awaiting the advent of Laud but more commonly in those of Reformed conformist bishops.
Outbreak investigations of Salmonella and frozen raw breaded chicken: the mitigation of a significant public health issue in Canada
Authors: Kerr Ashley , Smith Courtney R. , Kandar Rima , Kearney Ashley , Chau Kelvin , Adhikari Bijay , Cutler Jennifer , Galanis Eleni , Gaulin Colette , Hamel Meghan , Hobbs Leigh , Kershaw Tanis , Kirsch Penelope , Mah Victor , McCormick Rachel , Nesbitt Andrea , Orr Alison , Smadi Hanan , Taylor Marsha , Hexemer April
Published: December 2024

In May 2017, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) became the primary subtyping method for Salmonella in Canada. As a result of the increased discriminatory power provided by WGS, 16 multi-jurisdictional outbreaks of Salmonella associated with frozen raw breaded chicken products were identified between 2017 and 2019. The majority (15/16) were associated with S. enteritidis, while the remaining outbreak was associated with S. Heidelberg. The 16 outbreaks included a total of 487 cases with ages ranging from 0 to 98 years (median: 24 years); 79 hospitalizations and two deaths were reported. Over the course of the outbreak investigations, 14 frozen raw breaded chicken products were recalled, and one was voluntarily withdrawn from the market. After previous changes to labelling and the issuance of public communication for these products proved ineffective at reducing illnesses, new industry requirements were issued in 2019, which required the implementation of measures at the manufacturing/processing level to reduce Salmonella to below detectable amounts in frozen raw breaded chicken products. Since implementation, no further outbreaks of Salmonella associated with frozen breaded chicken have been identified in Canada, a testament to the effectiveness of these risk mitigation measures.
National outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O145:H28 associated with pre-packed sandwiches, United Kingdom, May–June 2024
Authors: Quinn Orlagh , Yanshi  , King Grace , Hoban Ann , Sawyer Clare , Douglas Amy , Painset Anaïs , Charlett Andre , Nelson Andrew , Rees Carys , Byers Chloe , Williams Christopher , Brown Colin , Mohan Kitty , Brown Claire , Jenkins Claire , Neill Claire , Leckenby Genna , Larkin Lesley , Allison Lesley , Olufon Oluwakemi , Nickbakhsh Sema , Mannes Trish , Inns Thomas , Balasegaram Sooria
Published: December 2024

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a group of bacteria that causes gastrointestinal illness and occasionally causes large foodborne outbreaks. It represents a major public health concern due to its ability to cause severe illness which can sometimes be fatal. This study was undertaken as part of a rapid investigation into a national foodborne outbreak of STEC O145. On 22 May 2024, United Kingdom (UK) public health agencies and laboratories identified an increase in stool specimens submissions and patients testing positive for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). Whole genome sequencing (WGS) identified serotype O145:H28 stx2a/eae belonging to the same five single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) single linkage cluster as the causative agent. By 3 July 2024, 288 cases had been linked to the cluster. Most cases were adults (87%) and females (57%), 49% were hospitalized with a further 10% attending emergency care. Descriptive epidemiology and analytical studies were conducted which identified consumption of nationally distributed pre-packed sandwiches as a common food exposure. The implicated food business operators voluntarily recalled ready-to-eat sandwiches and wraps containing lettuce on 14 June 2024.
‘Hip Hip Hooray and Thank You Marshall’: Gratitude, Emotion and the Mediation of Post-War Dutch–US Relations
Authors: van den Berk Jorrit , Bloemendal Albertine
Published: December 2024

This article conceptualises a transatlantic diplomacy of gratitude that developed in the context of the Marshall Plan as a case of emotional diplomacy by focusing on a Dutch commemorative tradition that celebrates the US aid programme. It shows that US Marshall Planners carefully refrained from explicit demands of gratitude and that it was the Dutch government, rather, that initiated a discourse of gratitude for US aid. Through the ways in which they invoked and embodied expressions of gratitude, the Dutch mediated and reframed their country's post-war demotion from a global empire to an aid-dependent country. This case, then, allows us to understand how the Netherlands strategically reconceptualised its position in a post-Second World War power structure dominated by the United States, while demonstrating how the careful navigation of the international emotional landscape played an important but as yet underexplored role in the diplomatic interactions of the post-war years.
Beyond the Tragedy: Illuminating Challenges in Disaster Management and Mental Health Support in Resource-Constrained Environments
Authors: Abidi Syed Muhammad Aqeel
Published: December 2024

In the aftermath of the 2022 Pakistan flooding, disaster management faced critical challenges, particularly in mental health support. This study analyzed an incident where eighteen internally displaced individuals lost their lives in a bus fire. The current approach involves a comprehensive analysis of the incident, exploring the difficulties encountered in managing relief efforts, and providing mental health support. The study aims were to evaluate existing mental health support mechanisms, to identify challenges in disaster management, and to propose recommendations for future preparedness. Recommendations include enhancing disaster response training, integrating mental health services into primary health care, and prioritizing community resilience. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of disaster management in resource-constrained regions.
Anatomical, behavioral, and cognitive teratogenicity associated with valproic acid: a systematic review
Authors: Valentino Kyle , Teopiz Kayla M. , Kwan Angela T.H. , Le Gia Han , Wong Sabrina , Rosenblat Joshua D. , Mansur Rodrigo B. , Lo Heidi K.Y. , McIntyre Roger S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Recent guidance from UK health authorities strongly cautions against the use of valproic acid (VPA) in persons under 55 because of reevaluated risk of teratogenicity.

Objective

To summarize the extant literature documenting VPA-associated anatomical, behavioral, and cognitive teratogenicity.

Method

Pubmed, Medline, Cochrane Library, PsychInfo, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Collected data covered study design, participant characteristics, anatomical, behavioral, or cognitive effects, and folic acid outcomes.

Results

122 studies were identified meeting inclusion comprised of studies evaluating anatomical (n = 67), behavioral (n = 28), and cognitive (n = 47) teratogenicity. Twenty studies were identified reporting on the risk mitigation effects of folic acid supplementation. Prenatal VPA exposure is associated with anatomical teratogenicity including major congenital malformations (odds ratio [OR] 2.47–9.30; p < 0.005). Behavioral teratogenicity including autism (OR 1.70–4.38), impaired motor development (OR 7.0), and ADHD (OR 1.39) are also significantly associated with VPA exposure. VPA was associated with intellectual disability and low IQ (hazard ratio [HR] 2.4–4.48, verbal intelligence: Spearman’s ρ = −0.436, respectively). Teratogenic effects were dose-dependent across all domains and were significant when compared with controls and other antiepileptic drugs (eg, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam). Folic acid supplementation does not significantly reduce the hazard associated with VPA.

Conclusions

VPA is significantly associated with anatomical, behavioral, and cognitive teratogenicity. Folic acid supplementation does not abrogate the risk of teratogenicity associated with VPA exposure. Available evidence supports recommendations to reduce VPA exposure in women of reproductive age.
Do petitions work? A follow-up study of Japanese local assembly petitions, following their adoption
Authors: Lee Sumin , Kim Minkyu
Published: December 2024

Many democracies have questioned the policy effectiveness of parliamentary petitions because the legislative approval of petitions does not legally bind follow-up measures that lead to petition realization. This study examines the connection between a legislature's adoption of petitions and ex-post policy implementation, using data from an original mail survey of previous petitioners at the prefectural level in Japan. Regression analysis and empirical insights from case studies suggest that the disclosure and transparency of the petition process, especially the issuance of progress reports, enhance officials' commitment to petitions' broad goals, leading to greater accountability, which, in turn, facilitates increased petition realization. These findings imply that citizens in Japan can expect democratic responsiveness to function, partly through the parliamentary petition system after an election.
Developing polyploid genetic resources for enhanced rebaudioside A synthesis and agronomic traits in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni
Authors: Joshi Sivendra , K. T. Venkatesha , Gupta Abhilasha , Padalia Rajendra Chandra , Kumar Dipender
Published: December 2024

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni stores over 20 glycosides in leaves and stem, the primary sweetening compounds are stevioside and rebaudioside A. Stevioside is 250–300 times and rebaudioside A is 350–450 times sweeter than sucrose. These glycosides can be substituted for free sugars being used in food and beverage industries. Due to limitations in the improvement of stevia through conventional breeding, induced polyploidy technique is a quick way to achieve enhanced leaf yield with increased secondary metabolites production. Presented study was conducted to develop genetic resources by inducing polyploidy and characterizing it. The apical meristem of 30-day-old seedlings was treated with colchicine solutions, ranging from 0.05 to 0.30%. Flow-cytometric analysis confirmed 13 tetraploids and one triploid genotype. Tetraploid plants showed significant changes in plant height, had larger leaf area, thicker leaves and higher levels of stevioside and rebaudioside A content, as compared to control. The triploid plant also surpassed the diploid control in number of branches per plant, leaf thickness, leaf area and fresh stem weight. The tetraploid line (ST 6) had 65.7% higher rebaudioside A content compared to diploid control. Correlation study revealed that leaf area and leaf thickness had an inverse correlation with rebaudioside A content. These newly developed polyploid genotypes offer valuable genetic resources for future stevia breeding programmes and as polyploid varieties for commercial cultivation.
COMPLIANCE AND COMMAND III: CONDITIONAL IMPERATIVES
Authors: FINE KIT
Published: December 2024

I apply truthmaker semantics to the logic of conditional imperatives.
Groundwater resources: Challenges & solutions
Authors: Cooper Richard J. , Hiscock Kevin M.
Published: December 2024

Through the provision of drinking and agricultural irrigation water, groundwater resources fundamentally underpin the existence of modern human society across large regions of the world. Despite this, decades of unsustainable exploitation have led to acute degradation of groundwater quantity and quality, creating pressing challenges that society must address if we are to maintain viable access to this crucial resource for future generations. Taking stock of the current situation, in this contribution we begin by reviewing some of the major global groundwater resource pressures, before exploring a range of technological, engineering, societal and nature-based solutions to address these challenges. We look at examples of emerging groundwater resource threats and potential innovative solutions to tackle them, before concluding with a forward look at future research opportunities that can ultimately enhance our management of this vital resource.