bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug levels of VEDOLIZUMAB in patients with pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease in a real-life setting
Authors: Hemming-Harlo Maria , Merras-Salmio Laura , Nikkonen Anne , Kolho Kaija-Leena
Published: October 2023

Vedolizumab (VDZ) is used off-label in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD). There are less data on drug levels to achieve and maintain remission in children. We aimed to study vedolizumab (VDZ) trough levels in a pediatric population in a real-life setting. We traced 50 patients with PIBD receiving VDZ treatment at our hospital, reviewed their treatment protocol, trough levels, and antidrug antibodies, and compared those to fecal calprotectin (FC) levels and achievement of corticosteroid-free maintenance therapy (CF). VDZ trough level was available from 198 samples during a median follow- up of 12.6 months. Proceeding to maintenance therapy was associated with a decline in FC but not with VDZ trough levels that were comparable between patients with FC < 100 μg/g (remission), 100–1000 μg/g, or > 1000 μg/g at 3 months (mean levels of 36.8, 28.6, and 27 μg/mL, respectively p = 0.188). At 3 months, patients achieving CF (41%) and those on corticosteroids had comparable VDZ trough levels (33 vs. 27.5 μg/mL, respectively). At 6 months, the trough level was similar in groups with FC < 100 μg/g or FC > 1000 μg/g (31.5 and 27.6 μg/mL, p = 0.859). Treatment intensification did not improve the achieved CF at 12 months. None developed drug antibodies nor discontinued the therapy for an adverse event.

   Conclusion: VDZ was a well-tolerated and safe biologic treatment. A positive response on gut inflammation after induction predicted proceeding to maintenance therapy whereas trough levels did not. A VDZ trough level associated with clinical remission or continuing with VDZ treatment could not be determined.

What is Known:• In pediatric inflammatory bowel disease, vedolizumab is still in off-label use.• The results on the relationship between drug levels of vedolizumab and clinical remission in pediatric patients are contradictory.

What is New:• This real-life setting in pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease showed no benefit of therapy enhancement during a median follow-up of one year.• Trough levels of vedolizumab were not associated with therapy outcomes.
Intraoperative distensibility measurement in POEM for achalasia: impact on patient outcome and associations with other outcome variables at 1-year follow-up
Authors: Evensen Helge , Sandstad Olav , Larssen Lene , Hagen Milada , Kristensen Vendel A. , Søvik Torgeir Thorson , Schulz Anselm , Hauge Truls , Medhus Asle W.
Published: October 2023

Background and aims

The functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) can provide measurements of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) distensibility. Studies report that use of intraoperative FLIP examination during peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia is associated with treatment success, but evidence is limited and inconsistent. The main aim of the present study was to assess associations between intraoperative FLIP values and 1-year outcomes. Additionally, associations between 1-year FLIP measurements and other 1-year outcome variables were studied.

Methods

We performed a single-center prospective study of consecutive achalasia patients treated with POEM with a standardized 1-year follow-up. The inclusion period was from June 2017 to January 2020. We compared 1-year outcomes (FLIP measurement values, Eckardt score (ES), reflux esophagitis, timed barium esophagogram (TBE), and lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure (LES-rp)) in patients with and without intraoperative FLIP examination. We also assessed associations between intraoperative FLIP values, 1-year FLIP values, and other 1-year outcomes. Results are given as median (IQR), and non-parametrical statistical analyses were applied.

Results

Sixty-two patients (27 females) with median age 45 years (35–54) were included. Baseline characteristics were similar in patients with (n = 32) and without (n = 30) intraoperative FLIP examination. In patients with intraoperative FLIP, ES was 2 (1–3) and LES distensibility index (DI) 3.7 (2.6–5.4) after 1 year, compared with ES 2 (1–3) and DI 4.0 (3.1–6.8)) in patients without intraoperative FLIP (ns). Intraoperative DI was not correlated with 1-year ES or DI. One-year DI correlated significantly with 1-year ES (rs − 0.42), TBE (rs − 0.34), and LES-rp (rs − 0.29).

Conclusions

Use of intraoperative FLIP measurements in POEM for achalasia is not associated with improved 1-year outcome, and the clinical value of intraoperative FLIP in POEM for achalasia is questioned. Follow-up FLIP measurements are moderately associated with symptomatic outcome, and may serve as an additional diagnostic modality in post-treatment evaluation.

Graphical abstract
An adaptive model order reduction technique for parameter-dependent modular structures
Authors: Ritzert Stephan , Macek Domen , Simon Jaan-Willem , Reese Stefanie
Published: October 2023

This work is concerned with an adaptive reduced order model of modular structures assembled from parameter-dependent substructures. The substructures are reduced by proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and connected by means of a tied contact formulation. We present a method to adapt the matrices of the substructures to parameter changes. We employ interpolation on Grassmann manifolds for the parametric adaption of the projection matrices. For the adaptation of the stiffness matrices, we use the direct empirical interpolation method (DEIM). Manifold interpolation of the reduced stiffness matrices, cannot be applied here since it would require semi-positive definiteness, which is here not fulfilled because of necessary rigid body motion modes. The novelty of this work is the application of these interpolation methods to the special problem class of POD-based tied contact model order reduction. Furthermore, we show a methodology to compute significant snapshots on the substructure level to compute a POD basis that can be used in different global structures.
Advances in pediatric acute kidney injury pharmacology and nutrition: a report from the 26th Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) consensus conference
Authors: Wong Vega Molly , Starr Michelle C. , Brophy Patrick D. , Devarajan Prasad , Soranno Danielle E. , Akcan-Arikan Ayse , Basu Rajit , Goldstein Stuart L. , Charlton Jennifer R. , Barreto Erin ,   the ADQI 26 workgroup
Published: October 2023

Background

In the past decade, there have been substantial advances in our understanding of pediatric AKI. Despite this progress, large gaps remain in our understanding of pharmacology and nutritional therapy in pediatric AKI.

Methods

During the 26th Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) Consensus Conference, a multidisciplinary group of experts reviewed the evidence and used a modified Delphi process to achieve consensus on recommendations for gaps and advances in care for pharmacologic and nutritional management of pediatric AKI. The current evidence as well as gaps and opportunities were discussed, and recommendations were summarized.

Results

Two consensus statements were developed. (1) High-value, kidney-eliminated medications should be selected for a detailed characterization of their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmaco-“omics” in sick children across the developmental continuum. This will allow for the optimization of real-time modeling with the goal of improving patient care. Nephrotoxin stewardship will be identified as an organizational priority and supported with necessary resources and infrastructure. (2) Patient-centered outcomes (functional status, quality of life, and optimal growth and development) must drive targeted nutritional interventions to optimize short- and long-term nutrition. Measures of acute and chronic changes of anthropometrics, body composition, physical function, and metabolic control should be incorporated into nutritional assessments.

Conclusions

Neonates and children have unique metabolic and growth parameters compared to adult patients. Strategic investments in multidisciplinary translational research efforts are required to fill the knowledge gaps in nutritional requirements and pharmacological best practices for children with or at risk for AKI.
Effect of Carbon on the Melting Behavior of a Mold Powder under High Heating Rates
Authors: Gruber Nathalie
Published: October 2023

Mold powders used for the continuous casting of steels contain different carbon carriers controlling the melting behavior. During melting, carbon particles may accumulate at the liquid slag pool surface resulting in steel recarburization, which significantly changes the product quality. Thus, to reduce or prevent this reaction, mold powders with considerably reduced carbon content, or even without free carbon, are required. To replace carbon with another melting-controlling component, the effect on the melting behavior of mold powders under near-process conditions, such as high heating rates, should be investigated. Consequently, a different procedure was developed to evaluate the effect of various carbon contents on the melting behavior. In this contribution, a granulated ultra-low carbon (ULC) mold powder was selected, and different graphite contents (0, 1, 2, and 5%) were added. Furthermore, a sample obtained by granule disintegration and 5% graphite addition was produced and compared with a powdery sample. Subsequently, the steel crucibles were covered to reduce oxygen supply, filled with the samples, inserted into a preheated furnace (700–1300 °C), held at the selected temperatures for 10 min, and quenched to room temperature. The samples were mineralogically investigated, and the experimental method was applicable for characterizing the melting behavior of mold powders. At lower temperatures, carbon reduces the reactions between raw material components owing to reduced particle contact and prevents the formation of new solid (for example, cuspidine) and liquid phases. With increasing carbon content, the reactions shifted to higher temperatures, further delaying liquid phase formation. This effect was more evident for the powdery mold powder than for the granulated mold powders. At elevated temperatures, the powdery sample contained a coherent liquid phase, whereas the granules melted independently. This contribution provides a foundation for alternative melting-controlled additives for mold powders. It demonstrates that carbon substitutes should delay the reaction between raw material components and be stable until high temperatures.
Partial discharge diagnostics on inverter-fed drives of electric vehicles
Authors: Zajadatz Maurizio , Wöhr Erik , Suriyah Michael , Leibfried Thomas
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the possibilities of partial discharge measurement at square-wave voltages are discussed. The focus is on low-voltage machines, such as those used in electric vehicles. An insight into common measurement methods is given. In this work, high-frequency current transformers and near-field probes are used as sensors. The generation of a realistic steep-edged test voltage according to IEC/TS 61934 is also discussed and demonstrated on an inverter with silicon carbide semiconductors.

Experiments are conducted to compare the sensors used. A direct comparison between cable-based sensors (HFCT) and antennas (near-field probes) is provided. Resonance points to open motor windings according to IEC/TS 60034-27‑5 and their significance for partial discharge measurement are also investigated. The results show that the high-frequency current transformers and the ball probe are able to detect PD even at steep voltage edges. Excitation with a fast voltage edge results in non-negligible overshoots in the overall system due to resonances. It can be shown that the partial discharges occur during these overvoltages.
Work loss and activity impairment due to extended nausea and vomiting in patients with breast cancer receiving CINV prophylaxis
Authors: Schwartzberg Lee , Navari Rudolph M. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , LeBlanc Thomas W. , Clark-Snow Rebecca , Wickham Rita , Kloth Dwight , Binder Gary , Bailey William L. , Turini Marco , Potluri Ravi , Liu Xing , Papademetriou Eros , Roeland Eric J.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)’s impact on work loss remains poorly described. We evaluated associations between the duration of CINV episodes, CINV-related work loss (CINV-WL), and CINV-related activity impairment (CINV-AI) in patients with breast cancer receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy.

Methods

We analyzed data from a prospective CINV prophylaxis trial of netupitant/palonestron and dexamethasone for patients receiving an anthracycline and cyclophosphamide (AC) for breast cancer (NCT0340371). Over the observed CINV duration (0–5 days), we analyzed patient-reported CINV-WL and CINV-AI for the first two chemotherapy cycles. We categorized patients as having either extended (≥ 3 days) or short (1–2 days) CINV duration and quantified its impact on work using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI).

Results

Overall, we captured data for 792 cycles in 402 women, including 136 (33.8%) employed patients with 35.3% reporting CINV. Of those with CINV, patients reported CINV-WL in 26 cycles and CINV-AI in 142 cycles. Of those with CINV, 55.3% of extended CINV cycles experienced CINV-WL compared to 16.7% of short CINV cycles (p < 0.001). The relative risk of CINV-WL between extended and short CINV was 3.32 (p < 0.01) for employed patients. The mean difference in CINV-AI scores (higher = worse) between extended and short duration CINV was 5.0 vs. 3.0 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Extended (≥ 3 days) CINV was associated with more than triple the risk of CINV-WL and higher CINV-AI compared with short CINV.
Zebra dolomites of the Spessart, Germany: implications for hydrothermal systems of the European Zechstein Basin
Authors: Kelka Ulrich , Beaudoin Nicolas E. , Lorenz Joachim , Koehn Daniel , Regenauer-Lieb Klaus , Boyce Adrian , Chung Peter
Published: October 2023

Zebra dolomites have a distinctive texture and are a peculiar structural variety of dolostones often encountered in the vicinity of base metal deposits commonly in the Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT). We investigate origin and evolution of the zebra dolomites found in the region of the Spessart, northwestern Bavaria, Germany, through diagenetic and petrogenetic analysis using SEM, CL microscopy, O–C isotopes, and fluid inclusion micro-thermometry. Here, we aim to shed light on the nature of the fluids that altered the zebra dolomite of the Zechstein formation. We distinguish the geochemical signatures of two different fluid flow regimes post-dating texture formation, each characterized by specific homogenization temperatures and oxygen–carbon isotope ratios (Event 1: Th = 120 °C; δ18Ofluids = [0 to 2‰]; Event 2; Th = 300 °C; δ18Ofluids = 18‰). Comparison of these fluids and the associated mineralization with published regional fluid flow data support that the zebra dolomites in the Spessart most likely coincided with the Permian large-scale fluid flow event that occurred throughout the European Zechstein Basin.

Graphical Abstract
Past and present risk of spring frosts for fruit trees in the Czech Republic
Authors: Zahradníček Pavel , Brázdil Rudolf , Řehoř Jan , Trnka Miroslav , Bartošová Lenka , Rožnovský Jaroslav
Published: October 2023

Recent climate warming is reflected in the advanced onset of spring phenological phases of fruit trees and in so-called false springs. This then manifests as an increased risk of trees being damaged by late frosts in the sensitive growing stage. Based on the homogenised temperature series of 155 climatological stations divided into two altitudinal groups (below 300 m a.s.l. and 301–600 m a.s.l.), a climatological analysis of selected variables in relation to atmospheric circulation over the territory of the Czech Republic during the period 1961–2021 was performed. The number of frost days and the dates of their latest onset exhibited negative linear trends; however, only 16% and 20% were statistically significant. The onset of false spring (at least ten consecutive days with daily maximum ≥ 10 °C) was also characterised by decreasing trends, which significantly deepened after 1980. Spring frost days were particularly attributed to higher frequencies of anticyclonic circulation types such as the central anticyclone and circulation types with northeastern, eastern and southeastern airflow. False spring onset was particularly connected with the central anticyclone and circulation types with western and southwestern airflow. The increasing trends of frost risk days (days between the beginning of the false spring and the date of the latest frost with daily minimum < −1.5 °C) were statistically nonsignificant. Local series of fruit trees from southeastern Moravia proved to have significantly earlier onset of the first blossom and full blossoming phenophases. Although the damage by late frosts has been identified as an important factor contributing to low yields of fruit trees during the period 1996–2021 in the Czech Republic, other factors (e.g. other weather phenomena, diseases, pests, site, taking preventive measures against frost) must also be taken into account.
Forschung mit Krebsregistern – was geht, was (noch) nicht?
Authors: Katalinic Alexander , Pritzkuleit Ron , Kraywinkel Klaus
Published: October 2023

Hintergrund

Eine der Aufgaben der Landeskrebsregister ist die Bereitstellung von Daten für Forschung oder eigene Forschung. Daten werden im Krebsregister nicht primär für Forschung, sondern mit Meldepflicht und ohne Einwilligung der Betroffenen für die Erfüllung gesetzlicher Aufgaben erhoben. Sind Daten der Krebsregister für Forschung sinnvoll nutzbar, werden sie genutzt und welche Rahmenbedingungen zur Datennutzung sollten nachgebessert werden?

Methoden

Mittels PubMed®-Recherche wurde die Nutzung von Krebsregisterdaten in wissenschaftlichen Publikationen für Deutschland und für das US-SEER-Programm (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program) ermittelt. Aus Landes- und Bundesgesetzen wurden Möglichkeiten zur Datennutzung ermittelt.

Ergebnisse

Für Deutschland wurden 2268 Artikel mit Krebsregisterdaten identifiziert, für 2022 etwa 250 Publikationen. Aus dem US-SEER-Programm gehen derzeit über 1500 Publikationen pro Jahr hervor. Aus den Krebsregistergesetzen wurden folgende wesentliche Nutzungsarten identifiziert: Bereitstellung und Nutzung von aggregierten und Einzelfalldaten, Kontaktierung von Krebserkrankten aus dem Registerbestand und Abgleich bestehender Kohorten mit dem Krebsregister. Während sich aggregierte und Einzelfalldaten i. d. R. mittels standardisierten Formulars beantragen lassen, erfordern die andern Nutzungsarten übliche wissenschaftliche Anträge mit Ethikvotum und ggf. weiteren Genehmigungen. Ausgewählte Praxisbeispiele zeigen die verschiedenen Nutzungsarten.

Schlussfolgerung

Die steigende Zahl an Publikationen belegt eine rege Forschungsnutzung. Dennoch ist in Deutschland das Potenzial nicht ausgereizt. Bundesländerübergreifende Projekte mit Verlinkung zu anderen Daten sind sehr aufwendig oder wegen bürokratischer Hürden oft nicht realistisch durchführbar. Mit Projekten und Gesetzesinitiativen wird derzeit versucht, solche Datennutzungen zu vereinfachen.
XLKarst, an Excel tool for time series analysis, spring recession curve analysis and classification of karst aquifers
Authors: Bailly-Comte V. , Ladouche B. , Charlier J. B. , Hakoun V. , Maréchal J. C.
Published: October 2023

Karst aquifers are complex hydrogeological systems that require numerous in-situ measurements of hydrological and physico-chemical parameters to characterize transfer processes from the recharge area to the karst spring. Numerous graphical, statistical or signal processing methods have been developed for decades to interpret these measurements, but there is no simple and standardized tool that can be used for this purpose, which is necessary for a rigorous comparison of results between case studies. This Technical Note presents XLKarst, which has been developed to provide a simple and easy-to-use tool to process a selection of proven methods that characterize the functioning of karst systems. This tool allows (i) time series analysis based on correlation and spectral analysis and, for flow measurements, the use of other statistics and base flow separation, (ii) calculation of the cumulative distribution function to build a spring flow probability plot, and (iii) analysis of spring flow recession and expression of the results in a karst system classification scheme. These methods are first described by providing the key elements of their use and interpretation in the scientific literature. Then, an application to the Fontaine de Nîmes karst system (southern France) is used to highlight the complementarity of the methods proposed by XLKarst to describe the hydrodynamic behavior of a karst system based on daily data of rainfall and discharge over 22 years.
History of the hydrogeochemical study of groundwater in the Netherlands and the research motives
Authors: Griffioen Jasper
Published: October 2023

An overview is presented of research on the hydrogeochemical aspects of groundwater resources in the Netherlands conducted since the early nineteenth century. The earliest studies investigated groundwater as a resource for drinking water. The first systematic, national study was in 1868 and was motivated by the cholera epidemics at that time. At the beginning of the twentieth century, research for drinking water production was institutionalised at national level. Since the 1960s, the range of organisations involved in hydrogeochemical research has broadened. Societal motives are also identified: shallow, biogenic methane as fossil fuel (already researched since the 1890s); groundwater contamination; freshening/salinisation of aquifers; ecohydrology and nature conservation; aquifer thermal energy storage; national and regional groundwater monitoring for policy evaluation; impact of climate change and weather variability; and occurrence of brackish groundwater and brines in the deeper subsurface. The last-mentioned has been driven by a series of motives ranging from water supply for recreational spas and mineral water production to subsurface disposal of radioactive waste. There have been two major scientific drivers: the introduction of techniques for using isotopes as tracers, and geochemical computer modelling. Another recent development has been the increasing capabilities in analytical chemistry in relation to the contamination of groundwater with emerging pollutants. Many of the motives for research emerged in the 1980s. Overall, the societal and associated technical motives turn out to be more important than the scientific motives for hydrogeochemical research on groundwater in the Netherlands. Once a research motive has emerged, it commonly tends to remain.
Towards a taxonomy for business capabilities determining data value
Authors: Hafner Markus , Mira da Silva Miguel
Published: October 2023

Data and its valuation have gained vital significance in academia and enterprises, coinciding with diverse data valuation approaches encompassing various layers, dimensions, and characteristics. This paper assesses data value determination through a business capability lens based on the TOGAF standard. The paper encompasses (a) constructing a Data Valuation Business Capability (DVBC) taxonomy and (b) validating the taxonomy using two existing data valuation concepts from academia. The methodology involves information systems taxonomy development techniques backed by a previously conducted systematic literature review of 64 articles. The resultant taxonomy comprises four business capability layers, nine dimensions, and 36 characteristics. These layers and dimensions offer business, technology, and organizational perspectives, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of data valuation alongside an enterprise architecture. Characteristics within these layers and dimensions are either exclusive or non-exclusive based on their contents. The compiled findings meet both objective and subjective quality criteria. The implications of the DVBC are multifaceted, influencing scholars and professionals alike. Scholars gain a cohesive tool enhancing transparency in the extensively debated data value domain, fostering linkages among information systems, enterprise architecture management, and data management. This empowers the progress in developing comprehensive data valuation concepts. Additionally, professionals may employ the DVBC taxonomy as a lighthouse and guiding tool, fostering internal dialog on data valuation. This entails elevating data valuation to a pivotal business capability, necessitating collaborative, regular assessment, and enhancement involving business and technological stakeholders. By adopting this taxonomy, the challenge of consistently determining data value can be effectively addressed in both academia and enterprises.
Association between patient-reported cognitive function and location of glioblastoma
Authors: Schei Stine , Sagberg Lisa Millgård , Bø Lars Eirik , Reinertsen Ingerid , Solheim Ole
Published: October 2023

Objective cognitive function in patients with glioblastoma may depend on tumor location. Less is known about the potential impact of tumor location on cognitive function from the patients’ perspective. This study aimed to investigate the association between patient-reported cognitive function and the location of glioblastoma using voxel-based lesion-symptom mapping. Patient-reported cognitive function was assessed with the European Organisation for Research and Treatment (EORTC) QLQ-C30 cognitive function subscale preoperatively and 1 month postoperatively. Semi-automatic tumor segmentations from preoperative MRI images with the corresponding EORTC QLQ-C30 cognitive function score were registered to a standardized brain template. Student’s pooled-variance t-test was used to compare mean patient-reported cognitive function scores between those with and without tumors in each voxel. Both preoperative brain maps (n = 162) and postoperative maps of changes (n = 99) were developed. Glioblastomas around the superior part of the left lateral ventricle, the left lateral part of the thalamus, the left caudate nucleus, and a portion of the left internal capsule were significantly associated with reduced preoperative patient-reported cognitive function. However, no voxels were significantly associated with postoperative change in patient-reported cognitive function assessed 1 month postoperatively. There seems to be an anatomical relation between tumor location and patient-reported cognitive function before surgery, with the left hemisphere being the dominant from the patients’ perspective.
Public health practice and artificial intelligence: views of future professionals
Authors: Mwase Nandi S. , Patrick Sean M. , Wolvaardt Jacqueline , Van Wyk Mari , Junger Washington , Wichmann Janine
Published: October 2023

Background

Globally, artificial intelligence (AI) is expanding in healthcare and public health and AI education for students in these fields will be essential. It is therefore important that future public health professionals are aware of opportunities and challenges linked to AI.

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess the perceptions and attitudes regarding AI among one such group of future public health professionals – Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health students – in South Africa.

Methods

An online survey was sent to students enrolled for the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health programme from 13 June 2022 to 17 June 2022.

Results

Six hundred and eighteen respondents completed an online survey (81.5% response rate). Generally, respondents thought AI would be capable of performing various tasks that did not provide direct care to individuals. Most (69%) agreed that introduction of AI could reduce job availability in public health fields. Respondents agreed that AI in public health could raise ethical (84%), social (77%) and health equity (77%) challenges. Relatively few respondents (52%) thought they were being adequately trained to work alongside AI tools, and the majority (76%) felt training of AI competencies should begin at an undergraduate level.

Conclusion

Respondents expect AI to eventually carry out specific functions in public health and had reservations that AI may cause ethical challenges and increase unemployment in the country. Further exploration is needed regarding the perceptions about AI and its integration into the health system and the implications for undergraduate and postgraduate curricula.
What is culturally appropriate food consumption? A systematic literature review exploring six conceptual themes and their implications for sustainable food system transformation
Authors: House Jonas , Brons Anke , Wertheim-Heck Sigrid , van der Horst Hilje
Published: October 2023

There is increasing recognition that sustainable diets need to be ‘culturally appropriate’. In relation to food consumption, however, it is often unclear what cultural appropriateness–or related terms, such as cultural or social acceptability–actually means. Often these terms go undefined, and where definitions are present, they vary widely. Based on a systematic literature review this paper explores how cultural appropriateness of food consumption is conceptualised across different research literatures, identifying six main themes in how cultural appropriateness is understood and applied. The paper then critically analyses these themes in relation to sustainable food system transformation. We explore how the themes conceptualise change, finding that cultural appropriateness is viewed in two main ways: either as a relatively static obstacle to be overcome, or as a dynamic and negotiated process. Both perspectives, we argue, entail different scientific, practical and political effects. Each perspective offers particular affordances for understanding and governing sustainable food system transition, although between perspectives there is likely to be a trade-off between theoretical sophistication and practical operationalizability. Based on this analysis we argue that researchers, policymakers and practitioners should be explicit about their commitment to a particular understanding of cultural appropriateness, as this will have implications for scientific and societal applications of their work. This is particularly the case, we suggest, in relation to the transdisciplinary collaborations necessary to effectively address the ‘wicked problem’ of food system sustainability. We conclude by offering a tentative general definition of cultural appropriateness as it relates to food consumption.
Production of sterile mono-sex triploid yellow drum (Nibea albiflora): genotypic females and sex-reversed phenotypic males with emphasis on utilization as surrogate broodstock
Authors: Yang Yang , Lu Lei , Chen Ruiyi , Yu Liechao , Hu Weihua , Xu Dongdong
Published: October 2023

Production of sterile mono-sex fish is of great significance for sustainable aquaculture as well as germ cell transplantation. In this study, we aimed to produce mono-sex triploid yellow drum, including genotypic females (XXX female) and sex-reversed phenotypic males (XXX male). Firstly, the mono-female triploids were produced through cold-shock treatment on eggs fertilized with sperm from neo-males. Then, the mono-male triploids were produced by the sex reversal of mono-female triploids with oral administration of letrozole (LZ). We comparatively investigated the growth and gonadal development in the mono-sex triploids. The results showed that the triploids displayed similar growth performance to their diploids throughout their first year, but had impaired gonadosomatic index and gametogenesis. No mature gametes were produced in the triploids during their first spawning season. Meanwhile, we analyzed the process of gametogenesis in the both sex of triploids. Ultrastructure of gametogenesis showed that the germ cells arrested at abnormal metaphase 1 in females, while males had irregular meiotic divisions, variable-sized spermatid and degenerated cells. The expression levels of meiosis-related genes (i.e., sycp3 and rec8) confirmed the abnormal meiosis in the triploids. Furthermore, the gonadal development was also determined by the expression patterns of vasa, dmrt1 and cyp19a1a. Abnormal expression of vasa mRNA and protein were detected in triploids. High cyp19a1a expression levels suggested the sex steroid hormones production might be at least partially functional in triploid females. In addition, high dmrt1 expression levels confirmed the masculinization and testicular development of sex-reversed triploid males by LZ. Our findings provide an efficient protocol to produce sterile mono-sex triploid yellow drum and provide new insights into the mechanism of gonadal sterility of triploid fish.
Using a Trans-theoretical Approach to Identify Differences in Determinants of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms and Mental Wellbeing Between Two Age Groups
Authors: Fisher Olivia J. , Carroll Julie-Anne , Shochet Ian M. , Cockshaw Wendell D. , Hou Xiang-Yu
Published: October 2023

The objective of this research was to compare social, emotional, and cognitive determinants of depression and anxiety symptoms and mental wellbeing using the two-continua model of mental health and illness in two age groups. The two-continua model proposes that mental health and mental illness are not two ends of the same spectrum but are, in fact, two separate but related spectrums. This cross-sectional study used a multi-age group comparison approach to identify the relative predictive strengths of risk and protective factors for the two-continua model of mental health and mental illness. Participants (n = 458: 251 16–25 year olds, and 207 35–64 year olds) completed an online survey that measured the outcome variables of depression and anxiety symptoms and mental wellbeing. Independent variables from three conceptual areas in psychology—(1) positive psychology: optimism, pessimism, and accomplishment; (2) emotion regulation: cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression; and (3) interpersonal theories: belonging and relationship with parent/child—were measured to ascertain the determinants of these outcome variables. The all-variables models explained 58–68% of the variance in depression symptoms, 77–80% in mental wellbeing, and 26–43% in anxiety symptoms. For both groups, the strongest predictor of mental wellbeing in these models was accomplishment. The strongest predictors in these models of mental illness symptoms differed between groups: belonging in the younger group and accomplishment in the older group. Programs targeting belonging and accomplishment could be highly effective in promoting mental wellbeing and reducing mental ill-health for these groups. Interventions require contextual investigation to locate drivers of mental wellbeing and illness for different age groups prior to implementation.
A Toolbox for Use During the Post-Pandemic Era: Preparing Youth for Re-entry
Authors: Barnowski Agatha , Brown Kimberly , Movahedi Yasaman , Friedberg Robert D.
Published: October 2023

While most individuals hope that the COVID-19 viral global pandemic is over, waves of infection and multiple mutating variants persist prompting considerable uncertainty. Re-entering previously familiar routines is especially difficult for youth challenged by excessive intolerance of uncertainty and accompanying anxiety. Therefore, constructing a conceptual map to explain these stressors and a viable skill set to cope with their anxiety are potentially helpful tasks. This is the exact focus of this article. A review of the past and current impact of COVID-19 on children and adolescents’ lives sets the proper context. Intolerance of uncertainty and health anxiety are two core constructs used to understand the psychological impact of the viral outbreak. Consequently, these variables are explained and summarized. A cognitive-behaviorally based toolkit focused on equipping youth experiencing high intolerance of uncertainty and anxious symptoms with skills for re-entry into an uncertain environment is outlined. Various processes and practices are illustrated via a representative confabulated case example.
Childhood Use of Coin Pusher and Crane Grab Machines, and Adult Gambling: Robustness to Subjective Confidence in a Young Adult USA Sample
Authors: Bastiani Oliver , Russell Alex M. T. , Newall Philip
Published: October 2023

Gambling as a youth is a risk factor for experiencing gambling-related harm as an adult. Most youth gambling research focuses on illegal engagement with age-restricted products, but youth can also gamble legally, by for example betting with friends, or via coin pusher and crane grab machines. Research has associated recollected rates of usage of these machines as a child with adult gambling participation and problems, but only in the UK and Australia, and has not tested for robustness to subjective confidence. The present study conceptually replicated these prior studies by investigating the association between recollected childhood use of coin push and crane grab machines, and adult gambling behavior, in a young adult USA sample. Participants rated their subjective confidence to test if individual differences in recollection biases provided a better account for any observed associations. Results found high recollected engagement rates for both coin pusher (87.2%) and crane grab machines (97.0%), and 5 of the 6 tested associations between youth machine usage and adult gambling engagement and problems were significant and in the hypothesized direction. Rates of subjective confidence were on average high (83.3 and 89.2 on a 0 to 100 scale), and generally did not interact with participants’ recollected rates of machine use. These findings extend prior research on potential public health concerns around children’s legal engagement with coin pusher and crane grab machines to a new country, the USA.
Understanding the Unmet Accommodation Needs of People Working with Mental or Cognitive Conditions: The Importance of Gender, Gendered Work, and Employment Factors
Authors: Jessiman-Perreault Geneviève , Gignac Monique A. M. , Thompson Aaron , Smith Peter M.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Workplace support needs for women and men living with mental health conditions are not well understood. This study examined workplace accommodation and support needs among women and men with and without mental health or cognitive conditions and individual and workplace factors associated with having unmet needs.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 3068 Canadian workers collected information on disability, gender, gendered occupations, job conditions, work contexts, and workplace accommodations. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined gender- and disability-based differences in unmet needs for workplace flexibility, work modifications, and health benefits, and the association of work context (i.e., work schedule, job sector) and job conditions (i.e., precarious work) on the likelihood of unmet accommodation needs. The additive (i.e., super- or sub-additive) and multiplicative effects of disability, gender, and occupational gender distribution on the probability of unmet accommodation needs were also assessed.

Results

The most common unmet workplace accommodation was work modifications reported by 35.9% of respondents with mental/cognitive disability and workplace flexibility reported by 19.6% of individuals without a mental/cognitive disability. Women, employees in female dominant occupations, and participants with mental/cognitive disabilities were more likely to report unmet needs compared with men, employees in non-female dominant occupations, and participants without disabilities but these findings were largely explained by differences in job conditions and work contexts. No interacting effects on the likelihood of reporting unmet needs for workplace accommodations were observed.

Conclusions

To support employee mental health, attention is needed to address work contexts and job conditions, especially for people working with mental/cognitive disabilities, women, and workers in female-dominated occupations where unmet accommodation needs are greatest.
Evolving ensembles of heuristics for the travelling salesman problem
Authors: Gil-Gala Francisco J. , Durasević Marko , Sierra María R. , Varela Ramiro
Published: October 2023

The Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP) is a well-known optimisation problem that has been widely studied over the last century. As a result, a variety of exact and approximate algorithms have been proposed in the literature. When it comes to solving large instances in real-time, greedy algorithms guided by priority rules represent the most common approach, being the nearest neighbour (NN) heuristic one of the most popular rules. NN is quite general but it is too simple and so it may not be the best choice in some cases. Alternatively, we may design more sophisticated heuristics considering the particular features of families of instances. To do that, we have to consider problem attributes other than the proximity of the next city to build priority rules. However, this process may not be easy for humans and so it is often addressed by some learning procedure. In this regard, hyper-heuristics as Genetic Programming (GP) stands as one of the most popular approaches. Furthermore, a single heuristic, even being good in average, may not be good for a number of instances of a given set. For this reason, the use of ensembles of heuristics is often a good alternative, which raises the problem of building ensembles from a given set of heuristic rules. In this paper, we study the application of two kinds of ensembles to the TSP. Given a set of TSP instances having similar characteristics, we firstly exploit a GP to build a set of heuristics involving a number of problem attributes, and then we build ensembles combining these heuristics by means of a Genetic Algorithm (GA). The experimental study provided valuable insights into the construction and utilisation of single rules and ensembles. It clearly demonstrated that the performance of ensembles justifies the time invested when compared to using individual heuristics.
The influence of COVID attitudes on environmental concern: a cross-national perspective
Authors: Wardana Rebecca
Published: October 2023

Past research on the influence of crisis on environmental attitudes shows an ambiguous picture. On the one hand, there is evidence of a short-term negative effect of economic factors on environmental attitudes, which is supported by the theory of affluence and the theory of postmaterialism. On the other hand, national studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic show a positive influence in terms of an increase in collective values and thus also environmental attitudes. This paper aims to investigate if this proposed positive effect of the pandemic found in some countries can be supported, since this has not been analyzed systematically through a cross-national point of view. For this purpose, the Values in Crisis dataset is used, which was collected in 18 countries at the beginning of the pandemic. The results indicate that influences of COVID attitudes affect environmental concerns differently across countries. There is support for a positive impact on environmental concerns across nations, but this cannot be concluded overall. The results are discussed in the context of their limitations and should provide the foundation for further research.
Survey-based Women Empowerment Index for Afghanistan (SWEI-A): An Explanatory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses
Authors: Dadras Omid , Hazratzai Mohammadsediq
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to develop a country-specific index to measure women empowerment among married women aged 15–49 years in Afghanistan. The data from the 2015 Afghanistan demographic health survey (ADHS) was used to develop the index. The data on 26 variables across eight hypothesized domains related to women empowerment were used in EFA to probe the underlying domains in the data. CFA examined the structural validity of hypothesized factors in EFA. Four indicators were dropped during the analysis either due to the low and significantly different loading on one factor as compared to other indicators or due to overlap with other indicators loaded on different factors. The final model included 22 indicators across seven domains (labor force participation, attitude toward violence, decision-making, access to healthcare, literacy, age at critical life events, and property-owning) and had Cronbach’s alpha = 0.69; indicative of good internal reliability. The goodness-of-fit test represented an acceptable level of construct validity with the likelihood ratio, RMSEA, and SRMR values ≤ 0.05 and CFI and TLI > 0.95. The developed index shares a common ground for future research concerning women empowerment in Afghanistan and can enhance the comparability of the results across future studies. In addition, having a standard index for women empowerment at the individual and country level could help assess the progress and efforts that have been made to achieve gender equality (SDG 5), and guide the direction of future policies and interventions.
Loneliness, Psychological Models, and Self-Estrangement
Authors: Seemann Axel
Published: October 2023

Loneliness is often described as an experience that is about the absence of other people. But loneliness also has an important self-directed aspect: it is oneself one experiences as lonely. I begin by taking it that what the lonely person experiences as absent are not simply other people but rather certain kinds of social relationships with them. Loneliness then involves a disappointed self-relation, a form of estrangement from oneself. I substantiate this view by appeal to psychological model theory. Social agents operate with triadic models of their environments that they themselves, together with the other person and the environment, help constitute. Social models are formed on the basis of intersubjective interaction and enable the social agent to contribute to these interactions. Conceptually more sophisticated versions of social models are at play in the conduct of complex social relationships like friendships or partnerships. Participants in these relationships regulate their social activities by applying the model to concrete situations and then acting so as to adjust the social situation to the model they entertain of it. The self thus features twice in the social agent’s experience, as a participant in the interaction and as an observing and regulating perceiver. Loneliness is the result of one way in which social reality can fail to be in tune with the model the person has of it. It involves a discrepancy between the model of her social life, including her own role in it, and how she perceives that social life to be.