bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing net-zero carbon supply chains in the European manufacturing industry – a multilevel perspective
Authors: Steiner Benedikt , Münch Christopher , Beckmann Markus , von der Gracht Heiko
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The European Union (EU) and European companies are striving for net-zero carbon targets by 2050 and are therefore focused on urgent decarbonization efforts. Manufacturing contributes to 20% of European carbon emissions, although the primary challenge lies in supply chain (SC) emissions, which highlights the field's need to transform. Amid the dissonance between public and private net-zero commitments and persistent carbon emissions, uncertainties surround the development of net-zero carbon supply chains (NZCSCs). This paper aims to address this lack of knowledge by presenting an exploration of the development of NZCSCs within the EU through 2050.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a real-time Delphi methodology and tool from durvey.org, this study involves a multiphase panel discussion process with 67 SC and sustainability experts. Twelve prospective theses for NZCSC development in the EU were formulated through desk research, interviews and an expert workshop. The panel assessed these theses in terms of impact, desirability and anticipated occurrence year and provided justification for their evaluations.

Findings

The study identifies three clusters that influence NZCSC development, comprising 68 implications that scholars, managers and policymakers should consider during this transition.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the available information regarding NZCSCs by offering insights from a multilevel perspective into the influences on NZCSC development in the EU's manufacturing sector.
Linking shared leadership and project success in virtual project teams: a moderated mediation model of teamwork and project complexity
Authors: Ali Hussain , Yushi Jiang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In the modern virtual workplace, an organization's ability to complete projects successfully is essential to its future sustainability. Identifying the factors that contribute to successful project outcomes is crucial in project management research. This study seeks to examine how shared leadership affects the quality of teamwork and the success of information system development projects. It also explores how project complexity affects the success of information system development (ISD) projects in the context of virtual project teams, which are usually made up of knowledge workers with a lot of experience.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 509 virtual ISD project team members in Pakistan were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with bootstrapping to assess the effects of shared leadership on teamwork quality and project success. The study also assessed the mediation role of teamwork and the moderation effect of project complexity on the mediation effect of teamwork quality between shared leadership and project success relationship.

Findings

The study found a positive correlation between shared leadership, teamwork quality, and project success. This study also revealed that teamwork quality mediates the association between shared leadership and project success. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that teamwork quality and project complexity moderate-mediate the relationship between shared leadership and project success.

Practical implications

Shared leadership enhances project success in virtual teams by improving teamwork. It requires investment in team development and collaboration initiatives, which ultimately lead to project success.

Originality/value

The findings complement previous research with new insights on behavioral dimensions of shared leadership and their effects on outcomes on the level of the individual. To date, no prior study has employed this nascent methodology to investigate the relationship between shared leadership and project success.
AI-driven innovation in smart city governance: achieving human-centric and sustainable outcomes
Authors: Bosco Gerardo , Riccardi Vincenzo , Sciarrone Alessia , D’Amore Raffaele , Visvizi Anna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in smart cities (SC) as a key aspect of enhancing urban governance and achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This integration presents significant opportunities and certain risks that require careful and proportionate management.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, and using a hierarchical impact assessment method, this study suggests how to measure the impact of AI-enhanced SC projects on ethical principles throughout respective projects’ life cycle. Having outlined a typology of SC applications, and having matched them with specific AI models, this paper develops and applies an analytical framework that serves as a valuable tool for monitoring ethical aspects of AI-based projects implemented in SC.

Findings

The study presents a descriptive model and a single visual scheme that synthesize the analytical framework. These tools provide support to public and private stakeholders, including citizens, NGOs and academic and research institutes by offering a unified method to assess and understand the ethical implications of complex SC systems. Through a hierarchical approach, the study aggregates the impacts of child nodes at each layer.

Originality/value

The study's contribution consists in the introduction of a comprehensive analytical framework that enables a structured assessment of ethical implications in AI-enhanced SC projects. By providing a clear approach for monitoring ethical impacts, the research fills a gap in literature as well as in practice as regards responsible and ethical use of AI in urban governance.
Ed Davey's Tory Removals: The Liberal Democrats and the 2024 General Election
Authors: Sloman Peter
Published: November 2024

The 2024 general election represented a remarkable comeback for the Liberal Democrats. Less than a decade on from the coalition and the 2015 election debacle, Sir Ed Davey's party reclaimed third‐party status in the House of Commons with seventy‐two MPs—the largest total for the Liberal Democrats or their Liberal Party predecessors since the 1920s. This article explores how Davey's disciplined campaign strategy enabled the Liberal Democrats to make sweeping gains from the Conservatives across southern England on an even bigger scale than in 1997. A clear anti‐Conservative stance, combined with an upbeat national campaign focussed on social care and sewage, helped the Liberal Democrats to attract a broad swathe of floating and tactical voters in seats where the party was best placed to beat the Tories, though its performance outside these constituencies was much weaker. After a long period focussed on electoral survival, Davey now has a golden opportunity to re‐establish the Liberal Democrats as a parliamentary force and to articulate a broader liberal policy agenda.
Evaluating a predictive model of avoidable hospital events for race‐ and sex‐based bias
Authors: Goetschius Leigh , Sun Ruichen , Han Fei , Stockwell Ian , Henderson Morgan
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate whether race‐ and sex‐based biases are present in a predictive model of avoidable hospital (AH) events.

Study Setting and Design

We examined whether Medicare fee‐for‐service (FFS) beneficiaries in Maryland with similar risk scores differed in true AH event risk on the basis of race or sex (n = 324,834). This was operationalized as a logistic regression of true AH events on race or sex with fixed effects for risk score percentile.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

Beneficiary‐level risk scores were derived from 36 months of Medicare FFS claims (April 2019–March 2022) and generated in May 2022. True AH events were observed in claims from June 2022.

Principal Findings

Black patients had higher average risk scores than White patients; however, the likelihood of experiencing an AH event did not differ by race when controlling for predicted risk (Marginal Effect [ME] = 0.0003, 95%CI −0.0003 to 0.0009). AH event likelihood was lower in males when controlling for risk level; however, the effect was small (ME = −0.0008, 95% CI −0.0013 to −0.0003) and it did not differ by sex for the target group for intervention (ME = 0.0002, 95% CI −0.0031 to 0.0036).

Conclusions

We implemented a simple bias assessment methodology and found no evidence of meaningful race‐ or sex‐based bias in this model. We encourage the incorporation of bias checks into predictive model development and monitoring processes.
Genome‐wide scans for signatures of selection in North African sheep reveals differentially selected regions between fat‐ and thin‐tailed breeds
Authors: Ben‐Jemaa Slim , Yahyaoui Ghazi , Kdidi Samia , Najjari Afef , Lenstra Johannes A. , Mastrangelo Salvatore , Gaouar Semir B. S. , Mwacharo Joram M. , Khorchani Touhami , Yahyaoui Mohamed H.
Published: November 2024

North Africa counts several sheep breeds that can be categorized as fat‐ and thin‐tailed. The former are well adapted to dryland environments. In this study, we used 50K genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism profiles from 462 animals representing nine fat‐tailed and 13 thin‐tailed sheep breeds across North Africa to localize genomic regions putatively under differential selective pressures between the two types of breeds. We observed genetic clines from east to west and from north to south. The east–west cline separates the fat‐ and thin‐tailed breeds, with the exception of the fat‐tailed Algerian Barbarine, which is closely related to a genetically homogeneous cluster of Moroccan and Algerian thin‐tailed breeds. Using a combination of three extended haplotype homozygosity tests, we detected seven candidate regions under divergent selection between fat‐ and thin‐tailed sheep. The strongest selection signals reside on chromosomes 1 and 13, with the latter spanning the BMP2 gene, known to be associated with the fat‐tail phenotype. Overall, the candidate regions under selection in fat‐tailed sheep overlap with genes associated with adaptation to desert‐like environments including adipogenesis, as well as heat and drought tolerance. Our results confirm previously reported candidate genes known to be a target of fat‐tail selection in sheep but also reveal novel candidate genes specifically under selection in North African populations.
Intermittent episodes of acute severe encephalomyopathy and early death in two siblings caused by biallelic likely pathogenic variants in FASTKD2: Expanding phenotype and literature review
Authors: Kaur Namanpreet , Somashekar Puneeth H. , Deepha Sekar , Govindaraj Periyasamy , Shukla Anju , Patil Siddaramappa J.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Combined oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) deficiency 44 (COXPD44; MIM# 618855) is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in FAS‐activated serine–threonine kinase domain 2 (FASTKD2) (MIM# 612322). COXPD44 is characterized by variable clinical features—developmental delay, chronic epileptic encephalopathy, seizure disorder/status epilepticus and cerebellar ataxia. We ascertained one sib with episodic acute encephalomyopathy triggered by acute gastroenteritis and associated with haematological abnormalities, rhabdomyolysis leading to acute kidney injury, hypotensive shock leading to early death and a similarly affected sib with early death. Both siblings were normal neurologically in between the acute episodes.

Material and Methods

Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed in the elder sibling. Mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme activity assaywas performed in fibroblast cells and muscle tissue of the elder sibling. Also, Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) determination assay was done in fibroblast cells of the elder sibling.

Results

WES revealed compound heterozygous missense likely pathogenic variants in FASTKD2. Mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme activity in muscle tissue showed reduced complex IV activity and ATP determination assay showed a reduction of ATP in skin fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Herein, we report two siblings with novel clinical phenotype associated with COXPD44. Our report further validates the biallelic variants in FASTKD2 associated with the variable phenotypes and mitochondrial OXPHOS defect.
Galectin‐1 Elicits a Tissue‐Specific Anti‐Inflammatory and Anti‐Degradative Effect Upon LPS‐Induced Response in an Ex Vivo Model of Human Fetal Membranes Modeling an Intraamniotic Inflammation
Authors: Hernández‐Rodríguez Jazmin , Pérez‐Hernández Jesús , Flores‐Espinosa Pilar , Olmos‐Ortiz Andrea , Velazquez Pilar , Zamora‐Escudero Rodrigo , Islas‐López Marcela , Helguera‐Repetto Addy Cecilia , Hernández‐Bones Karla , Rodríguez‐Flores Samara , Jiménez‐Escutia Rodrigo , Fortanel‐Fonseca Amaury , Flores‐Pliego Arturo , Lopez‐Vancell Rosario , Zaga‐Clavellina Veronica
Published: November 2024

Problem

Intrauterine infection is one of the most jeopardizing conditions associated with adverse outcomes, including preterm birth; however, multiple tolerance mechanisms operate at the maternal–fetal interface to avoid the rejection of the fetus. Among the factors that maintain the uterus as an immunoprivileged site, Galectin‐1 (Gal‐1), an immunomodulatory glycan‐binding protein secreted by the maternal‐fetal unit, is pivotal in promoting immune cell homeostasis. This work aimed to evaluate the role of Gal‐1 during a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced‐inflammatory milieu.

Method of Study

Using an ex vivo culture with two independent compartments, human fetal membranes at term were pretreated with 40 and 80 ng/mL of Gal‐1, then to reproduce an intraamniotic inflammation, the fetal side of membranes was stimulated with 500 ng/mL of LPS for 24 h. The concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP1), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP1) α, regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 were measured in both amnion and choriodecidua compartments.

Results

In a tissue‐specific fashion profile, pretreatment with the physiologic concentration of Gal‐1 significantly diminished the LPS‐dependent secretion of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, Il‐6, MCP1, MIP1α, RANTES, and MMP‐9.

Conclusion

Gal‐1 elicits an anti‐inflammatory effect on the human fetal membranes stimulated with LPS, which supports the hypothesis that Gal‐1 is part of the immunomodulatory mechanisms intended to stop the harmful effect of inflammation of the maternal–fetal interface.
Like mother like child: Differential impact of mothers' and fathers' individual language use on bilingual language exposure
Authors: Sander‐Montant Andrea , Bissonnette Rébecca , Byers‐Heinlein Krista
Published: November 2024

Language exposure is an important determiner of language outcomes in bilingual children. Family language strategies (FLS, e.g., one‐parent‐one‐language) were contrasted with parents’ individual language use to predict language exposure in 4–31‐month‐old children (50% female) living in Montreal, Quebec. Two‐hundred twenty one children (primarily European (48%) and mixed ethnicity (29%)) were learning two community languages (French and English) and 60 (primarily mixed ethnicity (39%) and European (16%)) were learning one community and one heritage language. Parents' individual language use better predicted exposure than FLS (explaining ~50% vs. ~6% of variance). Mothers' language use was twice as influential on children's exposure as fathers', likely due to gendered caregiving roles. In a subset of families followed longitudinally, ~25% showed changes in FLS and individual language use over time. Caregivers, especially mothers, individually shape bilingual children's language exposure.
A Preliminary Evaluation of Cobia Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus, 1766) Stocking in Northeastern Brazil: Lessons From an Experimental Project
Authors: dos Santos Alexandre Ricardo , Belarmino Erika , Bezerra Antonino de Freitas , Oliveira Jorge Eduardo Lins , Nóbrega Marcelo Francisco
Published: November 2024

The cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is important to fisheries in Northeastern Brazil. To restore stocks in Rio Grande do Norte, cobia were stocked and the fishery was monitored over 4 years. We evaluated effects of stocking on cobia size composition in this data‐limited fishery to understand stocking limitations and explore possibilities for future projects. Total length of cobia was significantly shorter after stocking than before stocking, with mostly small fish caught mainly by nets, an unusual pattern for cobia. Total length also varied significantly among bottom types. Most of the cobia harvested were below the size at first maturity, which suggests that stocking increased the catch, but most fish harvested were immature, thereby potentially hindering stock recovery. For future projects, we recommend against the use of plastic tags for tagging hatchery cobia and propose releases that emulate natural spawning dynamics, alongside releasing fish at older ages. Further, we recommend robust post‐stocking fishery monitoring, and management strategies, such as a release of net‐caught cobia in the initial 2 years and incorporating validated fisher knowledge into decision‐making.
Seasonal Harvesting Impact on Biomass Fuel Properties and Pyrolysis‐Derived Bio‐Oil Organic Phase Composition
Authors: Shezi Manqoba , Kiambi Sammy Lewis , Isa Yusuf Makarfi
Published: November 2024

Thermochemical conversion of giant reed biomass during periodic variations has been carried out in a semi‐batch tubular reactor at 550°C. This study was carried out after the incineration of giant reed along the river banks. Four periodic variations, late spring (HS‐4), late summer (HS‐1), late autumn (HS‐2), and late winter (HS‐3) were considered to investigate the effect of harvest time on biomass fuel properties, pyrolysis product distribution, non‐condensable gas characterization, and bio‐oil organic phase (BOP) fuel properties. The considered biomasses herein had average calorific values of 18.86 ± 0.05, 19.73 ± 0.05, 19.23 ± 0.04, and 18.44 ± 0.04 MJ/kg during HS‐1, HS‐2, HS‐3, and HS‐4, respectively. The biomass, bio‐oil organic phase, biochar, and pyrolysis gas were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GCMS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), micro‐GC, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS). The organic phase of bio‐oil was isolated using a 125 mL separating funnel, allowing natural stratification of the immiscible phases. BOP yield increased from 5 to 11 wt% during HS‐4 and HS‐3, respectively. Higher heating values (HHV) of the BOP ranged from 19.4 ± 0.03 to 22.6 ± 0.02 MJ/kg in relation to the active growth stage and senescence‐dormant phase. Physical and chemical properties (TAN, density, viscosity, water content, and CHNS) and chemical compound groups of organic phase bio‐oil were analyzed. The produced BOP was rich in phenolics for all considered periods. The effect of harvest time showed that biomass and bio‐oil organic phase fuel properties are improved during the senescence‐dormant period. As a result, giant reed biomass should be harvested during autumn to avoid incineration that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and will also reduce the occurrence of artificial flooding.
Identifying Key Moments in Type 2 Diabetes Management: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of People With Type 2 Diabetes and Diabetes Health Coaches
Authors: Joyce Jack B. , Newbert Carolyn , Guess Nicola , Fryer Kate , Mitchell Caroline A. , Bespala Liliia , Morris Elizabeth , Aveyard Paul , Jebb Susan A. , Albury Charlotte
Published: November 2024

Objective

For people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight, weight loss increases the likelihood of achieving diabetes remission. The aim here was to draw on the experiences of people living with type 2 diabetes and coaches who deliver type 2 diabetes prevention and remission programmes. This was done to develop a service that increases the proportion of people who achieve remission by identifying an effective weight management service.

Research Design and Methods

A qualitative researcher and co‐researcher with type 2 diabetes conducted 37 narrative interviews with adults with type 2 diabetes (October 2022–June 2023) and 16 semi‐structured interviews with health coaches delivering type 2 diabetes programmes in England. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Participants were diverse in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, gender and years since diabetes diagnosis.

Results

Four themes were generated relating to moments in a person's diabetes care: (1) coming to terms with diagnosis, (2) lightbulb moments, (3) sustaining change as normal and (4) becoming expert/building confidence. These four themes were united under a high‐level interpretivist theme: ‘Same journey, different experience’, capturing the mismatch between a linear rigid care pathway described by coaches and the diversity of experience of people living with type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

Coaches and people with type 2 diabetes are aligned on their reports of key moments in adapting to diabetes. Participants’ desire for flexibility in their care contrasted with coach reports of rigid service provision. These insights may enable more people with type 2 diabetes to engage and adhere to weight management services aimed at diabetes remission.
Moving beyond tokenism: Sustaining engagement of persons living with dementia in identifying emergency research priorities
Authors: Sandoval Jacqueline , Gilmore‐Bykovskyi Andrea , Carpenter Christopher R. , Shah Manish N. , Dussetschleger Jeffrey , Dresden Scott , Ellenbogen Michael , Gil Heidi , Jaspal Naveena , Jobe Deborah , Vann Allan , Webb Teresa , Hwang Ula
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The Geriatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network 2.0‐Advancing Dementia Care (GEAR 2.0‐ADC) aims to advance research efforts to improve the emergency care of persons living with dementia (PLWDs).

Objective

To support this objective, GEAR 2.0‐ADC convened a virtual consensus conference to prioritize emergency care research opportunities for PLWDs inclusive of perspectives of PLWDs to ensure identification of research gaps in response to their experiences and priorities. Inclusion of PLWDs as research partners is increasingly recognized as a best practice, however, approaches to facilitating consensus participation are lacking.

Methods

Best practices for supporting the engagement of PLWDs in a consensus conference, applied across its three phases (pre‐conference, during the conference, and post‐conference), include: establishing a learning environment focused on research priorities before the event, presenting information in ways that align with participants' learning preferences while accommodating cognitive impairments, and providing multiple opportunities and methods for gathering post‐conference feedback from PLWDs.

Results

These strategies were identified by PLWDs and care partners (CPs) through semi‐structured interviews, who were involved in the convening process, aimed at exploring ways to enhance facilitation techniques for participants.

Conclusion

Additionally, these summarized insights aim to encourage the use of community‐engaged approaches in discussions and consensus‐building around research priorities in emergency care, particularly for PLWDs and their CPs.
The gut‐microbiota‐brain axis: Focus on gut steroids
Authors: Diviccaro Silvia , Giatti Silvia , Cioffi Lucia , Chrostek Gabriela , Melcangi Roberto Cosimo
Published: November 2024

There are over 1000 varieties of steroids that have been reported in nature, including the endogenous sex steroid hormones (i.e., progesterone, testosterone, and 17β‐estradiol) and corticosteroids which are mainly synthesized by gonads and adrenals, respectively. In addition, an extra‐glandular steroidogenesis has been also reported in the brain and in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The reason why intestinal steroidogenesis and consequently gut steroids draw our attention is for the communication and interaction with the gut microbiota, which functions like a virtual endocrine organ, and it is also involved in the steroid production. Moreover, both GIT and gut microbiota communicate through neural, endocrine, and humoral ways with the brain, in the so‐called gut‐microbiota‐brain axis. On this basis, in this review, we will discuss several aspects such as (1) intestinal steroidogenesis and its possible regulation, (2) the potential role of gut steroids in physiopathological conditions, and (3) the role of microbiome in steroidogenesis and steroid metabolism. Overall, this review highlights new points of view considering steroid molecules as potential therapeutic approach for gastrointestinal disorders and brain comorbidities.
Real‐World Evaluation of Point‐of‐Care Testing for Hepatitis C Antibodies: Navigating Hepatitis C Elimination Effort
Authors: Yew Kuo Chao , Sim Alyssa Shin Yee , Hawkins Robert , Acharyya Sanchalika , Wong Gerard Daquan , Wong Samuel Wei Chong , Lim Yuan Heng , Yang Wei Lyn , Lim Wei‐Yen , Chow Angela Li Ping
Published: November 2024

An HCV elimination program aims to diagnose more than 90% of Chronic HCV cases. We critically evaluated the performance of a point‐of‐care test (POCT) using an HCV Rapid Antibody Test. PWID from 4 Halfway Houses (HWH) in Singapore were recruited from March 2022 to April 2023. Participants were concurrently screened for HCV via venous blood for anti‐HCV serology and using fingerstick capillary whole blood (FSWB) and oral mucosal transudates (OMT) for POCT, which were interpreted by trained personnel. A blinded study team member independently assessed images of POCTs. Of 207 participants, 37.3% were anti‐HCV positive. Compared to anti‐HCV serology, POCT performance on FSWB and OMT were: Sensitivity 81.8 (73.2–90.4), 74.0 (64.2–83.8), p = 0.014; Specificity 100.0 (100.0–100.0), 98.5 (96.3–100), p = 0.157. Sub‐group analysis of strict 30‐min pre‐test nil‐by‐mouth instruction in 103 subjects reported Sensitivity 77.5 (64.6–90.4), 77.5 (64.6–90.4) and Specificity 100.0 (100.0–100.0) and 98.4 (95.3–100.0). OMT positivity and false‐negative outcomes did not correlate with the sample analytical cutoff index signal distribution of anti‐HCV Serology. Inter‐class correlation between real‐time and imaging readings of POCT for FSWB and OMT at 20 and 40 min were Kappa 0.9666, 0.9674; 0.8803, 0.8940. Proper preparation and patient selection enhance test performance. Differences in oral fluid immunoglobulin secretion, oral pathology, age, and sample collection can affect POCT OMT readings. POCT OMT is promising in serial and self‐testing, complementing its convenience in testing.
Population Genetics and Invasion History of the European Starling Across Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Thompson Bryan , Atsawawaranunt Kamolphat , Nehmens Melissa C. , Pearman William S. , Perkins E. Owen , Pipek Pavel , Rollins Lee A. , Tan Hui Zhen , Whibley Annabel , Santure Anna W. , Stuart Katarina C.
Published: November 2024

The expansion of human settlements over the past few centuries is responsible for an unprecedented number of invasive species introductions globally. An important component of biological invasion management is understanding how introduction history and postintroduction processes have jointly shaped present‐day distributions and patterns of population structure, diversity and adaptation. One example of a successful invader is the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), which was intentionally introduced to numerous countries in the 19th century, including Aotearoa New Zealand, where it has become firmly established. We used reduced representation sequencing to characterise the genetic population structure of the European starling in New Zealand, comparing it to that present in sampling locations in the native range and invasive Australian range. The population structure and genetic diversity patterns we found suggested restricted gene flow from the majority of New Zealand to the northmost sampling location (Auckland). We also profiled genetic bottlenecks and shared outlier genomic regions, which supported historical accounts of translocations between both Australian subpopulations and New Zealand, and provided evidence of which documented translocation events were more likely to have been successful. Using these results as well as historic demographic patterns, we demonstrate how genomic analysis complements even well‐documented invasion histories to better understand invasion processes, with direct implications for understanding contemporary gene flow and informing invasion management.
An Early‐Life Disruption of Gut Microbiota Has Opposing Effects on Parasite Resistance in Two Host Species
Authors: Love Ashley C. , Nahom Mia L. , Gutierrez Jessica , Albert Lauren , Knutie Sarah A.
Published: November 2024

Gut microbiota regulate multiple aspects of host health, including metabolism and the development of the immune system. However, we still know relatively little about how the gut microbiota influences host responses to parasitism in wild organisms, particularly whether host‐microbiota interactions contribute to variation in parasitism across host species. The goal of this study was to determine the role of gut microbiota in shaping how birds respond to nest parasites and investigate whether this relationship varies between host species. Both eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) and tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) are parasitized by blow flies (Protocalliphora sialia), for which larval flies feed on nestlings' blood. We experimentally manipulated the gut microbiota of nestling bluebirds and tree swallows by dosing nestlings with an oral antibiotic or sterile water as a control. We then quantified nestling physiology (haemoglobin, glucose, parasite‐specific IgY antibody levels), body morphometrics, and survival until fledging, as well as blow fly abundance and size. An experimental disruption of nestling gut microbiota increased parasite abundance in tree swallows, but decreased parasite abundance in bluebirds, which suggests that the disruption has opposing effects on resistance across host species. Furthermore, experimental treatment delayed parasite development and had variable effects on nestling body morphometrics and physiology across the two host species. Together, these results suggest that gut microbiota contribute to host differences in resistance to blow flies and can influence host–parasite interactions.
The transcription factor PpRKD evokes female developmental fate in the sexual reproductive organs of Physcomitrium patens
Authors: Yoro Emiko , Suzuki Seiya , Akiyoshi Nobuhiro , Kofuji Rumiko , Sakakibara Keiko
Published: November 2024

The sexual reproductive organs of bryophytes – in which gametes necessary for fertilization are produced, namely, male antheridia and female archegonia – are formed from vegetative haploid gametophytes. In dioicous bryophytes such as Marchantia polymorpha, the genes within the sex‐determining regions in distinct sexual strains have been identified. However, in monoicous bryophytes such as Physcomitrium patens, how the two sex fates are specified on the same gametophyte remained unknown.

Here, we identified an RWP‐RK domain‐containing transcription factor in P. patens, PpRKD, as a factor required for the development of female organs, based on the absence of archegonia in loss‐of‐function Pprkd mutants and the specific expression of PpRKD in archegonia.

When ectopically induced, the expression of PpRKD resulted in the repression of antheridial development and the emergence of archegonium‐like organs. Furthermore, the young primordia inside the antheridial bundle displayed typical archegonial division patterns, suggesting that PpRKD confer female fate to antheridium primordia.

This study represents the first instance where the function of sex determination has been identified among RKD orthologs in land plants. This finding should provide a new framework for the molecular evolutionary context of the genes in the RKD family, considering the recent elucidation of their roles in algae.
Nietzsche on values
Authors: Huddleston Andrew
Published: November 2024

Values, and a critique of values, are at the center of Nietzsche's philosophical work. He famously proposes to launch a “revaluation” of values. But this raises a number of philosophical questions about the nature of values for Nietzsche, and how he proposes to critique them. I will begin by tracing Nietzsche's descriptive psychology of valuing. Then I will look to Nietzsche's sociology of values: what is it for a framework of values to be ascendant at a given time and place? We will next turn to the mode of value critique that Nietzsche employs. Then we take up the question of whether there is an overarching value for Nietzsche (such as power or life, for example). Finally, I will turn to the question of whether such values might have genuine normative authority. In other words, is Nietzsche's evaluative schema simply his preferred outlook? Or does it have a more secure claim on the attention of others?
Influencing Factors of Self‐Management Behavior Among Chinese Patients With Chronic Disease: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Liang Zhiqi , Shi Yingying , Zhang Yunjie , Zhang Hanyi , Zhuo Yu , Lv Ningning , Gao Gexin , Li Jufang
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aimed to describe the self‐management behavior levels and further explore its influencing factors among patients with chronic disease.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

460 convenient samples of patients with chronic disease in Zhejiang Province were investigated using a demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS‐6), and the Chronic Disease Self‐Management Behavior Scale between October and December 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, t‐test, one‐way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis, Spearman correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Results

The mean score of the self‐management behavior of the patients with chronic disease was 32.27 (standard deviation [SD] = 8.67). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that self‐management behavior among patients with chronic disease was influenced by the individual factor (frequency of health check‐ups), the family factors (number of children, spouse status, and family network), and the social factor (place of residence).

Conclusions

The self‐management behavior among patients with chronic disease was at a moderate level and needed further improvement. The self‐management behavior among patients with chronic disease was influenced by three kinds of factors. Specifically, for the individual factor, patients who had a higher frequency of health check‐ups reported better self‐management behavior; for the family factors, patients who had no spouse, few children, and a strong family network showed better self‐management behavior; for the social factor, patients living in urban areas had better self‐management behavior.
Executive policymaking influence via the administrative apparatus
Authors: Yackee Susan Webb
Published: November 2024

Elected chief executives in the United States—that is, governors and presidents—routinely attempt to achieve their domestic policy goals by influencing the decision‐making of public agencies. I provide empirical assessments of the two most frequently theorized elected executive influence tactics: political appointments and the centralization of agency decision‐making. Using an expansive survey of the leaders in over 1800 state agencies, observational and experimental evidence are used to evaluate the effectiveness of these tactics. I find that state agency leaders believe that the appointment of officials to key agency posts allows the governor to better achieve his or her policy objectives than centralizing decision‐making, and Republican governors are seen as more successful in using these tactics than Democratic ones. Overall, the results provide a real‐world sense of how one government institution—the elected chief executive—tries to steer the policymaking of public managers and the government agencies that they lead.
An information‐theoretic analysis of security behavior intentions amongst United States poll workers
Authors: Scala Natalie M. , Rajgopal Jayant , Mezgebe Yeabsira , Dehlinger Josh
Published: November 2024

In light of recent events related to national elections in the United States, safeguarding the security and integrity of forthcoming elections stands as a critical national priority. Elections equipment in the United States constitutes critical national infrastructure, and its operation relies on poll workers, who are trusted insiders. However, those insiders may pose risks if they make mistakes with detrimental consequences or act with malice. This research analyzes a large dataset of 2213 responses obtained from a survey of poll workers and potential poll workers in 13 states. The survey includes the Security Behavior Intentions Scale, which has been previously established and validated in the security literature. We use the responses to assess poll workers’ intentions of complying with established security‐related practices. We develop a novel model using information theory to examine potential weaknesses in security behaviors and identify poll worker security practices to improve to ensure the integrity of our elections. We also recommend action items and countermeasures for states and localities based upon this empirical analysis.
Detection of Helicobacter pylori in Adults with Dyspepsia in Ibagué, Colombia: Comparative Evaluation of Methods
Authors: Herrera Medina Angie Melissa , Bedoya Trujillo Paula Natalia , Castro Valencia Fabian Leonardo , Guevara Tique Alix Andrea , Suarez Olaya John Jairo , Valderrama Arciniegas Natalia , Parra Giovanna , Bohórquez Mabel Elena , Echeverry de Polanco María Magdalena
Published: November 2024

Helicobacter pylori infection has been associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, including chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, dyspepsia, and gastric cancer. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of four invasive diagnostic methods for detecting H. pylori in 297 patients with premalignant gastric lesions and gastric cancer. In this cross-sectional study, the methods evaluated included Giemsa stain, in vitro culture, rapid urease test, and polymerase chain reaction. Patients were recruited between 2016 and 2019 in Ibagué, and a case definition criteria was used for diagnosis. Analysis of operational and epidemiological characteristics was performed to assess result agreement. Results showed H. pylori infection rates of 43% (RUT), 63% (GST), 24% (IVC), and 42% (PCR). The Kappa index demonstrated higher values for PCR (0.7704) and RUT (0.7030) compared to other methods. The RUT test displayed the highest Kappa index (0.59) when compared to PCR. Non-parametric tests indicated that PCR (0.779) and RUT (0.708) had the strongest correlation, reducing prediction error by 51.1% and 40.4%, respectively. In conclusion, the CDC criteria exhibited enhanced reliability in diagnosing H. pylori infection. Notably, PCR and RUT showed significant correlation in diagnostic accuracy for H. pylori detection.
Non-Synchronous Vibration: Characterization of the Aerodynamic Disturbance and Its Dependency on Local Tip Clearance
Authors: Tharreau Pierre , Hardy-Falch Magnus , Stapelfeldt Sina , Brandstetter Christoph
Published: November 2024

Nonsynchronous vibrations (NSV) occurring near the stall boundary pose a major challenge to the design of safe and efficient compressors and fans. NSV occurs when aerodynamic disturbances which develop close to the aerodynamic stability limit couple with blade vibration. Despite its importance and a recent rise in research efforts, the exact nature of the aerodynamic disturbance is unknown and there are no robust modeling and prediction methods available. A characteristic parameter crucial to the successful prediction of NSV is the circumferential propagation velocity of the aerodynamic disturbance, which determines whether lock-in with a structural vibration mode is possible. This paper uses detailed aeroelastic measurements and coupled time-accurate simulations on the open-test-case composite fan ECL5, which was experimentally tested at Ecole Centrale de-Lyon in project CATANA, to characterize the aerodynamic disturbance and determine the mechanisms responsible for its circumferential propagation. As part of this, the influence of blade-to-blade variations in tip clearance size is investigated. The disturbance is identified as a vortical structure which originates in the tip clearance flow close to the leading edge and is convected across the passage to the trailing blade where it triggers the release of a new vortical structure. The tip clearance plays a crucial role in setting the convection speed across the passage and also influences the transfer mechanism across the blade. Overall, a larger tip clearance is found to increase the speed and strength of the disturbance in the subsequent passage. The implications of tip clearance variations for vibration are modeled and the results confirmed in the experimental analysis. It is shown that blade-to-blade variations in the tip clearance act as a form of aerodynamic mistuning, leading to vibrations in multiple nodal diameters.
Assessing approaches for ship noise reduction within critical whale habitat
Authors: ZoBell Vanessa M. , Hildebrand John A. , Frasier Kaitlin E.
Published: November 2024

Ship noise pollution significantly overlaps with critical habitats of endangered whales in the Santa Barbara Channel, prompting the need for effective noise reduction strategies. Various ship noise reduction approaches were assessed by simulating both source-centric (e.g., speed reduction or retrofit) and space-centric (e.g., routing changes) strategies to determine which would most effectively minimize noise within important marine habitats. Reducing the speeds of all ships achieved the highest noise reduction of the source-centric methods, although solely slowing cargo ships led to similar reductions. Implementing a single-route approach on the southern side of the Channel Islands achieved the greatest reduction of the space-centric strategies. For the multi-route approaches, some noise reduction was achieved by creating a buffer zone between the proposed shipping lanes and the critical habitat boundary. This simulation framework provides a mechanism for efficient exploration and assessment of noise reduction strategies across time and space. The framework can be updated to consider new approaches to changing ocean conditions.
Air-conduction and bone-conduction reference threshold levels—A multicenter study
Authors: Margolis Robert H. , Sanchez Victoria , Hunter Lisa L. , Rao Aparna , Boyle Suzannah , Zadeh Lina Motlagh , Wong Amelia N.
Published: November 2024

Air-conduction (AC) and bone-conduction (BC) thresholds were measured to evaluate standard reference thresholds and recommend revisions to audiometer standards. AC and BC thresholds were measured from listeners with normal hearing (NH) and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) at three sites. NH participants (n = 53) were selected based on age (18–25 years old), normal AC thresholds, tympanometry, otoscopy, and absence of otologic disease. SNHL participants (n = 49) were selected based on AC thresholds, tympanometry, otoscopy, and absence of otologic disease. AC thresholds obtained from NH listeners averaged 3.7 dB hearing level (HL). Air-bone gaps (ABGs) occurred in NH and SNHL listeners above 2000 Hz and in SNHL listeners at 250 Hz. Corrections to standard reference equivalent threshold sound pressure levels are recommended. ABGs in listeners without conductive pathology result from incorrect reference threshold levels for frequencies above 2000 Hz. False ABGs increase with hearing-loss magnitude, probably the result of the effects of ambient and internal noise for low-level BC stimuli. False ABGs place patients at risk for unnecessary medical and surgical intervention. Reference threshold levels should achieve two objectives: (1) AC thresholds from young NH listeners should average 0 dB HL; and (2) ABGs from listeners with normal middle-ear function should average 0 dB.
A Fundamental Movement Skill Test for Preschool Children With and Without Overweight: The SALTO Test Battery
Authors: Birklbauer Jürgen , Gniewosz Burkhard , Freudenthaler Thomas , Birklbauer Anita , Pötzelsberger Birgit , Wiesinger Hans-Peter , Weghuber Daniel , Ring-Dimitriou Susanne
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate a 3-factor model of fundamental movement skills in preschool children, incorporating both process- and product-oriented assessment methods, and to test the model’s invariance across subgroups of age, body weight and sex. Methods: The SALTO test battery was administered to 736 preschool children aged 3–6 years. A single-indicator multitrait–multimethod model was specified with Locomotion, Object Manipulation, and Balance as latent factors and a latent method factor to address the multimethod design. Measurement invariance was tested across subgroups using multigroup confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The 3-factor model yielded good fit indices, confirming the construct validity of the SALzburg Together against Obesity test battery. Strong measurement invariance was found across body mass index groups, whereas partial invariance was observed across age and sex groups. Older children outperformed younger ones in all skill domains, children with overweight had lower skills in Balance and Locomotion, and sex differences were found in Object Manipulation and Balance. Conclusion: The SALTO test battery is a structurally valid tool for evaluating and comparing fundamental movement skills in preschool children across age, weight status, and sex. The findings underscore the importance of considering these factors when designing interventions to enhance fundamental movement skills in early childhood.
The Limits of Applicability of the Gutenberg–Richter Law in the Problems of Seismic Hazard and Risk Assessment
Authors: Krushelnitskii K. V. , Shebalin P. N. , Vorobieva I. A. , Selyutskaya O. V. , Antipova A. O.
Published: November 2024

Abstract—The Gutenberg–Richter law establishes a log-linear relationship between the number of earthquakes that have occurred within some spatiotemporal volume and their magnitude. This similarity property presumably reflects fractal structure of the fault system in which earthquake sources are formed. The Gutenberg–Richter law plays a key role in the problems of seismic hazard and risk assessment. Using the Gutenberg–Richter relationship, we can estimate the average recurrence period of strong earthquakes from the recurrence rate of weaker earthquakes. Since the strongest earthquakes occur infrequently, with intervals of a few hundred years or more, it is not possible to directly assess their recurrence. From indirect geologic and paleoseismic estimates it often seems that strong earthquakes on individual faults occur more frequently than expected in accordance with the Gutenberg–Richter law. Such estimates underlie the hypothesis of the so-called characteristic earthquakes. This hypothesis is in many cases additionally supported by the form of the magnitude–frequency distributions for individual faults, constructed from the data of modern earthquake catalogs. At the same time, an important factor affecting the form of the magnitude–frequency distribution is the choice of the spatial domain in which the distribution is constructed. This paper investigates the influence of this factor and determines the conditions under which the Gutenberg–Richter law is applicable for estimating the recurrence of strong earthquakes.