bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Paul-optical trap with large optical access for levitated optomechanics
Authors: Bonvin Eric , Devaud Louisiane , Rossi Massimiliano , Militaru Andrei , Dania Lorenzo , Bykov Dmitry S. , Teller Markus , Northup Tracy E. , Novotny Lukas , Frimmer Martin
Published: November 2024

We present a hybrid trapping platform that allows us to levitate a charged nanoparticle in high vacuum using either optical fields, radio-frequency fields, or a combination thereof. Our hybrid approach combines an optical dipole trap with a linear Paul trap while maintaining a large numerical aperture (0.77 NA). We detail a controlled transfer procedure that allows us to use the Paul trap as a “safety net” to recover particles lost from the optical trap at high vacuum. The presented hybrid platform adds to the toolbox of levitodynamics and represents an important step towards fully controllable “dark” potentials, providing control in the absence of decoherence because of photon recoil.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effective theory of collective deep learning
Authors: Arola-Fernández Lluís , Lacasa Lucas
Published: November 2024

Unraveling the emergence of collective learning in systems of coupled artificial neural networks points to broader implications for physics, machine learning, neuroscience, and society. Here we introduce a minimal model of interacting deep neural nets that condenses several recent decentralized algorithms by considering a competition between two terms: the local learning dynamics in the parameters of each neural network unit, and a diffusive coupling among units that tends to homogenize the parameters of the ensemble. We derive an effective theory for linear networks to show that the coarse-grained behavior of our system is equivalent to a deformed Ginzburg-Landau model with quenched disorder. This framework predicts depth-dependent disorder-order-disorder phase transitions in the parameters' solutions that reveal a depth-delayed onset of a collective learning phase and a low-rank microscopic learning path. We validate the theory in coupled ensembles of realistic neural networks trained on MNIST and CIFAR-10 datasets under privacy constraints. Interestingly, experiments confirm that individual networks–trained on private data–can fully generalize to unseen data classes when the collective learning phase emerges. Our work elucidates the physics of collective learning and contributes to the mechanistic interpretability of deep learning in decentralized settings.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Topological properties of single-particle states decaying into a continuum due to interaction
Authors: Hawashin B. , Sirker J. , Uhrig G. S.
Published: November 2024

We investigate how topological Chern numbers can be defined when single-particle states hybridize with continua. We do so exemplarily in a bosonic Haldane model at zero temperature with an additional on-site decay of one boson into two and the conjugate fusion of two bosons into one. Restricting the Hilbert space to two bosons at maximum, the exact self-energy is accessible. We use the bilinear Hamiltonian H0 corrected by the self-energy Σ to compute Chern numbers by two different approaches. The results are gauged against a full many-body calculation in the Hilbert space where possible. We establish numerically and analytically that the effective Hamiltonian Heff=H0(k⃗)+Σ(ω,k⃗) reproduces the correct many-body topology if the considered band does not overlap with the continuum. In case of overlaps, one can extend the definition of the Chern number to the non-Hermitian Heff and there is evidence that the Chern number changes at exceptional points. But the bulk-boundary correspondence appears to be no longer valid and edge modes delocalize.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
BIM-based search and selection of construction material suppliers: a dedicated framework and prototype
Authors: Aftab Usman , Hassan Muhammad Usman , Ullah Fahim , Nasir Abdur Rehman , Thaheem Muhammad Jamaluddin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the key issues concerning supplier selection in traditional construction procurement by proposing an innovative, novel, state-of-the-art prototype plugin building information modelling – supplier search and ranking (BIM-SSR) and an associated conceptual framework. It enhances building information modelling (BIM) capabilities through web crawling and analytical hierarchy processes (AHP). It uses the World Wide Web to procure construction material suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

Prevalent issues in traditional procurement of material suppliers have been identified through a rigorous literature review. Field experts vetted these issues. A framework has been presented to address these issues based on integrated web crawling and AHP as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method. A BIM prototype (BIM-SSR) has been developed using Python and plugged into Autodesk Revit to automate the search and evaluation of material suppliers based on precise material specifications from the BIM design. The BIM-SSR prototype is tested through a case study and validated by field professionals for its efficiency in tackling the identified issues.

Findings

Thirteen key issues have been identified concerning traditional construction procurement pertinent to supplier selection. Best-value procurement was encouraged by identifying supplier selection criteria such as cost, delivery time, experience, compliance with quality management standards, warranties, and claim period. The presented BIM-SSR prototype has an efficiency of 80%–95% in addressing the issues identified in this study and 97.5% effectiveness in improving the overall procurement management process.

Originality/value

The BIM-SSR prototype developed in this study is a novel and innovative addition to the body of knowledge that has been integrated into Autodesk Revit as a Plugin. Automation of supplier search and selection through digital technologies, including web crawling and integration of traditionally accepted MCDM methods such as AHP in BIM, is another innovation in the current study. Overall, this study presents a holistic, innovative system, from conceptual design to practical implementation and demonstration. This is one of the steps to help the traditional construction procurement process evolve into a more modern and digital procurement.
Measuring complexity in mega construction projects: fuzzy comprehensive evaluation and grey relational analysis
Authors: Jin Shitao
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Mega construction projects (MCPs), characterized by their vast scale, numerous stakeholders and complex management, often face significant uncertainties and challenges. While existing research has explored the complexity of MCPs, it predominantly focuses on qualitative analysis and lacks systematic quantitative measurement methods. Therefore, this study aims to construct a complexity measurement model for MCPs using fuzzy comprehensive evaluation and grey relational analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study first constructs a complexity measurement framework through a systematic literature review, covering six dimensions of technical complexity, organizational complexity, goal complexity, environmental complexity, cultural complexity and information complexity and comprising 30 influencing factors. Secondly, a fuzzy evaluation matrix for complexity is constructed using a generalized bell-shaped membership function to effectively handle the fuzziness and uncertainty in the assessment. Subsequently, grey relational analysis is used to calculate the relational degree of each complexity factor, identifying their weights in the overall complexity. Finally, the weighted comprehensive evaluation results of project complexity are derived by combining the fuzzy evaluation results with the grey relational degrees.

Findings

To validate the model’s effectiveness, the 2020 Xi’an Silk Road International Conference Center construction project is used as a case study. The results indicate that the overall complexity level of the project is moderate, with goal complexity being the highest, followed by organizational complexity, environmental complexity, technical complexity, cultural complexity and informational complexity. The empirical analysis demonstrates that the model can accurately reflect the variations across different dimensions of MCP complexity and can be effectively applied in real-world projects.

Originality/value

This study systematically integrates research on MCPs complexity, establishing a multidimensional complexity measurement framework that addresses the limitations of previous studies focusing on partial dimensions. Moreover, the proposed quantitative measurement model combines fuzzy comprehensive evaluation and grey relational analysis, enhancing the accuracy and objectivity of complexity measurement while minimizing subjective bias. Lastly, the model has broad applicability and can be used in MCPs across different countries and regions, providing a scientific and effective basis for identifying and managing MCP complexity.
Verdicts on the optimization of corporate insolvency legal frameworks for sustainable development in Tanzania and Mauritius
Authors: Habiye Yusto Lucian , Gunputh Rajendra Parsad , Pudaruth Sameerchand
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Sustainable development necessitates balancing economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection to meet present needs without compromising future generations. The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a global framework to address these challenges. This study aims to explore how optimizing corporate insolvency legal frameworks in Tanzania and Mauritius can contribute to sustainable development, focusing specifically on the intersection of insolvency law and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, integrating Creditors’ Bargain Theory and Communitarian Theory to analyze insolvency frameworks. The Creditors’ Bargain Theory emphasizes the importance of creditors’ rights in insolvency proceedings, whereas Communitarian Theory highlights broader societal impacts. The research is based on an extensive literature review of 59 academic sources, legal texts and reports, complemented by primary data collected through surveys involving at least 20 legal experts, insolvency practitioners, academics and researchers from both jurisdictions. Data was analysed to identify key themes, strengths, weaknesses and best practices within the existing legal frameworks of Tanzania and Mauritius.

Findings

The study identifies significant disparities between the insolvency frameworks in Tanzania and Mauritius. Tanzania’s framework is encumbered by outdated laws and high burdens of proof for insolvency claims, while Mauritius has a more streamlined process but contends with the misuse of statutory demands. Both countries require reforms to address preferential claims and improve regulatory oversight of insolvency practitioners. The study highlights the need to prioritize consumer claims, set minimum thresholds for statutory demands and ensure equitable treatment of creditors. It further emphasizes enhancing regulatory frameworks, particularly in Tanzania, where insolvency practitioners operate without comprehensive guidelines, in contrast to Mauritius’s more robust system.

Originality/value

This study offers a unique comparative analysis of how insolvency frameworks in Tanzania and Mauritius can be reformed to align with sustainable development objectives. It provides valuable insights into how legal reforms, including the introduction of penalties and enhancement of practitioner qualifications, can contribute to more sustainable economic practices.
Blockchain for supply chain: performance implications and contingencies
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Qiang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the performance implications of blockchain implementation in the supply chain and explore how blockchain functions and supply chain processes of blockchain implementation moderate the effect on firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using 220 blockchain implementations announced between January 2015 and December 2022, we use the event study methodology to estimate the effects of blockchain implementation on the firm value. Regression analyses are conducted to examine the moderating effects of blockchain functions and supply chain processes.

Findings

First, there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between blockchain implementation in the supply chain and firm value. Second, we find that abnormal returns from blockchain implementation are higher when used with blockchain’s contract automation function and applied in downstream processes, supporting the moderation effects.

Originality/value

The study provides empirical evidence on the effects of the blockchain implementation on firm performance, taking into account the complexity of blockchain functions and supply chain processes. It enriches the current understanding of how blockchain implementation in the supply chain contributes to firm value.
Understanding the influence of communication visibility in preventing knowledge sabotage: a knowledge power perspective
Authors: Wang Junli , Yuan Ling , Tan Zhihong
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study explores the potential impact of enterprise social media (ESM) communication visibility on knowledge sabotage to reduce knowledge sabotage within organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected data from 389 Chinese employees across three stages and used hierarchical regression analysis and the bootstrap method to test our hypotheses.

Findings

Communication visibility negatively affects knowledge sabotage, and the loss of knowledge power mediates the relationship between communication visibility and knowledge sabotage. Digital work connectivity strengthens the negative relationship between message transparency and loss of knowledge power but weakens the negative relationship between network translucence and loss of knowledge power. Therefore, digital work connectivity plays a dual role.

Practical implications

Managers can encourage employees to share their knowledge advantages through ESM and seek cross-disciplinary knowledge cooperation, which helps restrain knowledge sabotage from the source. At the same time, maintaining appropriate digital work connectivity enables employees to leverage their knowledge interaction advantages of ESM, thereby fostering their knowledge competitiveness.

Originality/value

This study is the first to reveal the internal mechanism (loss of knowledge power) through which ESM communication visibility affects knowledge sabotage and explores the boundary condition (digital work connectivity) impacting the effectiveness of communication visibility. It contributes to a deeper understanding of the inherent nature of knowledge sabotage from an information technology perspective and offers novel technical insights into its management.
Coercive control of older adults in filial relationships: a hybrid concept analysis
Authors: Quinlan Freda , Donnelly Sarah , O’Donnell Deirdre
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to synthesise published evidence relating to filial coercive control to generate an understanding of this under-explored concept. This paper identifies its defining characteristics and explores the circumstances under which the phenomenon manifests in the lives of older adults.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping review methodology was adopted to guide the literature review, while a concept analysis methodology guided data extraction and analysis. Drawing on Rodgers’s (1989) evolutionary concept analysis method, a co-constructed research methodology was developed for this study.

Findings

The concept of filial coercive control was understood in the context of the following antecedents: ageist norms, a parental relationship (both biological and non-biological), physical proximity and the controlling characteristics and tendencies of the abusive adult child. The defining attributes included the exercise of power through control, dependency and entrapment, isolation and confinement and fear and intimidation. Using the dominant themes, models and contrary cases were constructed to illustrate the findings.

Originality/value

Existing bodies of theory fail to adequately describe the phenomenon of filial coercive control adequately; as a consequence, a co-constructed concept analysis was conducted. A tentative operational definition and a conceptual model are proposed providing a starting point for future research and informing professional practice and education.
Is the country’s preparedness for epidemics and pandemics an FDI location factor? An empirical analysis using panel data
Authors: Ait Soussane Jihad , Ibourk Aomar
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to validate the hypothesis that a country’s preparedness for epidemics and pandemics, as measured by the GHS Index, significantly influences inward FDI inflows. By examining panel data from 2019 to 2021, the research seeks to elucidate the impact of heightened epidemic and pandemic preparedness on investment behavior, thereby highlighting the importance of health resilience and preparedness in attracting foreign investment and fostering economic growth and development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses panel data spanning 181 countries from 2019 to 2021 and uses logarithmic regression models to analyze the impact of a country’s preparedness for epidemics and pandemics, as measured by the Global Health Security (GHS) Index, on inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows. Auxiliary variables including GDP, labor supply, openness rate, inflation rate and political stability are incorporated. Robust weighted least squares estimation techniques are used to account for potential heterogeneity and panel data characteristics.

Findings

The study reveals a consistent and statistically significant positive relationship between a country’s GHS score and inward FDI, indicating that destinations with robust health systems are more attractive to investors. Higher GHS scores correlate with reduced investment risk, improved business continuity during health crises and enhanced health-care infrastructure, leading to a healthier and more productive workforce.

Research limitations/implications

While the study provides valuable insights into the relationship between epidemic and pandemic preparedness and inward FDI inflows, several limitations exist. The analysis relies on cross-sectional data from a relatively short timeframe (2019–2021), limiting the ability to capture long-term effects. Additionally, the study focuses on the GHS Index as a measure of preparedness, overlooking other potential determinants of FDI attractiveness. Future research could explore a broader range of health security indicators and incorporate longer-term data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by examining the previously underexplored relationship between a country’s epidemic and pandemic preparedness, as measured by the GHS Index and inward FDI inflows. By using panel data analysis and robust econometric techniques, the research provides empirical evidence supporting the positive impact of robust health systems on FDI attractiveness. The findings underscore the importance of prioritizing public health initiatives and epidemic preparedness as integral components of attracting and retaining foreign investment, thereby fostering economic resilience and sustainable development in host countries.
The impacts of World Governance Index on Global Peace Index between 2008 and 2022
Authors: Keser Ahmet , Pehlivan Oğuzhan , Gokmen Yunus
Published: November 2024

Purpose

While many factors contribute to peace, economic and governmental factors are considered essential litmus tests for determining peace levels. This study aims to examine the impacts of World Governance Index (WGI) variables on the Global Peace Index (GPI) which ranges from 0 (very high) to 5 (very low).

Design/methodology/approach

The GPI serves as a key indicator of peace levels. Valid data from two databases covering 161 countries from 2008 to 2022 were collected and analyzed by using a logarithmic panel data regression model. This approach ensures robust results, particularly when endogenous and exogenous variables have different measurement units.

Findings

According to the Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) estimators, five WGI components exhibit inverse relationships with the GPI (increasing WGI components leads to a decline in GPI, indicating an enhancement in peace quality). The most significant factor influencing peace is “Political Stability and Absence of Violence/Terrorism”, while the effects of “Voice and Accountability” and “Control of Corruption” are also noted.

Originality/value

Extant studies have largely overlooked the interaction between governance and peace, often relying on regional data (with neighboring countries) or case studies on local solutions. This paper, based on data from 161 countries, evaluates governance quality and its dimensions in relation to peace conditions on a global scale, providing more generalizable results for policymakers and scholars.
Bacterial communities on giant kelp in the Magellan Strait: Geographical and intra‐thallus patterns
Authors: Soto Daniela F. , Muñoz Camilo , Huovinen Pirjo , Garcés‐Vargas José , Gómez Iván
Published: November 2024

The giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera is categorized as a keystone species, forming highly productive forests that provide ecosystem services and host a remarkable marine biodiversity of macro and microorganisms. The association of microorganisms with the algae is close and can be functionally interdependent. The Magellan Strait, a natural marine passage between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, harbours extensive giant kelp forests. However, information related to the diversity of bacterial communities in this region is still scarce. In this study, 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding was used to characterize the diversity and composition of bacterial communities associated with apical blades and sporophylls of M. pyrifera from different sites (Bahía Buzo, San Gregorio, and Buque Quemado). Additionally, data from satellites and reanalysis, as well as tide data, were used to characterize the environmental variability. The findings revealed discernible local variations in bacterial taxa across sampling sites, with consistent dominance of Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Bacteroidetes, and Planctomycetes. Furthermore, a distinctive bacterial community structure was identified between apical and sporophyll blades of M. pyrifera. This research marks the inaugural characterization of bacterial community diversity and composition associated with M. pyrifera in the remote and understudied sub‐Antarctic region of the Magellan Strait.
Spillover Effects of the SEC's Regulatory Oversight on Private Debt Contracting: Evidence from Cross‐listed Foreign Firms
Authors: Chy Mahfuz , Khurana Inder K. , Kyung Hoyoun
Published: November 2024

We examine the effect of the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) regulatory oversight on private debt contracting outcomes, using the signing of the multilateral memorandum of understanding (MMoU) as a natural experiment. The MMoU enables the SEC to take stricter punitive actions against wealth expropriation by cross‐listed firms’ insiders and enforce better compliance with applicable rules and regulations. We find that enhanced SEC oversight in the post‐MMoU regime lowers loan spreads by 36 basis points, thus saving an average cross‐listed firm approximately $9 million in direct loan costs over the life of a bank loan. Cross‐sectional analyses show that the effect is more pronounced for borrowers from countries with weaker institutions, borrowers with greater accounting discretion, and for loans arranged by top lenders or loans not secured by collateral. Conversely, the effect is less pronounced for borrowers who use IFRS or when the SEC faces greater budgetary constraints. Enhanced SEC oversight also leads to an increase in loan maturity and a decrease in financial covenants. Our evidence suggests that while the SEC's primary mandate is to protect public equity and bond investors, its supervision yields substantial borrowing cost savings and more lenient nonprice loan terms in the private debt markets as well.
How environmental policy stringency, green investment, and renewable energy contribute to environmental pollution and load capacity factor in G11 countries?
Authors: Fatima Tehreem , Razzaq Asif , Nghiem Xuan‐Hoa , Meo Muhammad Saeed
Published: November 2024

Amid growing concerns about global environmental sustainability, the focus on understanding the interplay between environmental policies, investments in sustainable practices, and renewable energy sources has intensified. This study delves into the relationship between environmental policy stringency, green investment, and the utilization of renewable energy, specifically examining their impact on the load capacity factor (LCF) within G11 countries utilized from 2000 to 2021. Manifestly, LCF integrates both demand‐ and supply‐side aspects of environmental quality. It also utilizes a comprehensive indicator of environmental policy stringency, evaluating its impact alongside green investment. Employing the Cross Sectional‐Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS‐ARDL) model and the Common Correlated Effect Mean Group (CCEMG) approach, this research demonstrates that environmental policy stringency, green investment, and renewable energy consumption positively and significantly influence the LCF, consequently fostering improvements in environmental sustainability in both short‐ and long‐term scenarios. It is worth mentioning that environmental policy stringency has the strongest effects on LCF followed by renewable energy. The findings strongly indicate that reinforcing environmental policies, promoting green investment, and embracing renewable energy usage can collectively yield a substantial reduction in environmental pressure for G11 countries.
Data‐sparse price indexes by spatio‐temporal regularization and PCA: An application to the Australian housing market
Authors: Sijp Willem P. , Panagiotelis Anastasios , Francke Marc K.
Published: November 2024

We present two novel approaches to overcome the limitations of data‐sparse local house price indexes and combine them into a single model pipeline that is simple, computationally efficient, and interpretable. The first contribution is a new spatio‐temporal regularization of least squares dummy variable models, such as the repeat sales regression used here. This regularization encodes prior knowledge of the proximity of houses in space and their sales in time. It handles missing values in a natural way. The second is nonlocal regularization using truncated principal component analysis (PCA) applied to the resulting national collection of local price indexes. The PCA loadings show that there are important underlying socioeconomic factors that can be leveraged in the construction of Australian market indexes. This PCA reveals important socioeconomic factors, showing that many local markets can be described by a few broad aspects of the national market, consisting of a general trend that contrasts regions influenced by the mining industry with Sydney and Melbourne, and another trend that highlights lifestyle.
Reports of tropane alkaloid poisonings and analytical techniques for their determination in food crops and products from 2013 to 2023
Authors: Gravador Rufielyn S. , Haughey Simon , Meneely Julie , Greer Brett , Nugent Anne , Daniel Christy S. , Elliott Christopher
Published: November 2024

Food safety is crucial to attaining food security and sustainability. Unsafe foods for human and animal consumption lead to product recalls and rejection, negatively impacting the global economy and trade. Similarly, climate change can adversely affect the availability of safe and nutritious food at the table. The changing climatic conditions and global food trade and transport can make the movement of toxic plants possible, resulting in food crops being increasingly invaded by some species of plants that produce toxic secondary metabolites, such as tropane alkaloids (TAs). Datura stramonium from the Solanaceae plant family is an invasive and virulent plant that produces high amounts of two TAs, atropine and scopolamine. Various food poisoning events following accidental or deliberate ingestion of foods contaminated by atropine and scopolamine from seeds of D. stramonium have been recorded in different locations globally. Due to these incidents, regulatory agencies require the development of plant toxin detection methods that can be used in the food chain as early as possible. This systematic review thus focuses on the TA determination techniques in food and feeds published between 2013 and 2023. A particular focus was given to the sample preparation methods, the improvements of each technique claimed, and data to support the performance of each method, especially the ability to measure at or below the maximum level. The review concludes with other technological advancements, including rapid spectroscopy, electrophoresis, and colorimetric methods, as well as the possibility of coupling with smartphones for use in on‐farm detection and the challenges in applying them.
Simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins in agricultural products: Recent advances in optical and electrochemical sensing methods
Authors: Tang Chunyuan , He Yi , Yuan Bingzheng , Li Libo , Luo Lijun , You Tianyan
Published: November 2024

Mycotoxin contamination poses serious threats to human and animal health. Food and environmental systems are often simultaneously contaminated with multiple mycotoxins, a problem that is further exacerbated by the synergistic toxicological effects of these co‐occurring mycotoxins. Consequently, the development of rapid detection methods capable of simultaneously identifying multiple mycotoxins in agricultural products is essential to prevent their entry into the food chain. Compared to standard detection methods, optical and electrochemical (EC) sensing methods have distinct advantages for the rapid detection of mycotoxins. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest advancements in the field of simultaneous detection of multiple mycotoxins using optical and EC sensing methods over the last 6 years (2018–2024). First, the review introduces the classification and relevant principles of optical and EC sensing methods. Thereafter, it emphasizes innovative simultaneous detection strategies within these approaches. Finally, it discusses current challenges and offers a reference for further research. Currently, the main challenge lies in the mutual interference among targets, making the development of an interference‐free detection platform essential. Furthermore, the ongoing development of integrated technology is expected to aid regulatory authorities in improving the quality of agricultural products for field applications.
Publication output of RANZCR radiation oncologists in 2022–23
Authors: Roos Daniel , Milner Lisa , Kang Therese , Quinn Emma , Ong Wee Loon
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this work was to determine the current publication output of Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists radiation oncologists (ROs) to serve as a baseline contributing to future assessment of the effectiveness of the College's Research Action Plan 2024–26.

Methods

An online survey was sent to all ROs in the College's member database in March–April 2024 requesting a list of publications between 2022 and 2023. A PubMed search was performed to cross‐check the self‐reported publications. Given the low response rate (8%), an additional PubMed search was performed for the non‐responders. The primary outcomes were publication proportions and rates, and the secondary outcomes were demographic correlates (gender, country, seniority).

Results

There were 536 eligible ROs (56% males; 80% practicing in Australia; median 12.4 years post‐Fellowship) with 1,012 unique publications identified. The proportions of ROs with at least one publication in any‐, first‐ and last‐author positions averaged 45%, 15% and 17% per year, respectively. On multivariable analysis, there were statistically significant differences in publications by seniority (higher proportions of last‐authorships but lower proportions of first‐authorships, for those ≥5 years post‐Fellowship) and by country (lower any‐, and last‐authorships for New Zealand [NZ] than Australia or Singapore).

The mean numbers of any‐, first‐ and last‐authorships were 1.6, 0.18 and 0.29 per RO per year, respectively. On multivariable analysis, there were statistically significant differences by gender (males had more any‐, and first‐authorships), seniority (senior ROs had more last‐authorships but less first‐authorships) and country (lower numbers of any‐, and last‐authorships for New Zealand).

Conclusion

This organization‐wide study provides comprehensive baseline RO publication data and identifies opportunities for the College to further address correlated disparities.
Elective extubation during skin‐to‐skin care in preterm newborns is safe and well‐tolerated
Authors: Morey‐Olivé M. , Romaní‐Franquesa N. , Echeverría‐Gallart M. , Céspedes‐Dominguez M. C. , Camba‐Longueira F. , Montaner‐Ramon A.
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the safety and tolerance of elective extubations in preterm newborns (PNB) during skin‐to‐skin care (SSC) compared to those performed in an incubator.

Methods

Retrospective observational study including 142 extubations in 93 PNB with gestational age (GA) <32 weeks and/or birth weight (BW) <1500 g performed during the first 2 months of life. Safety, tolerance and extubation success at 72 h were assessed.

Results

The median GA was 25.4 weeks in the SSC group versus 26.6 weeks in the incubator group (p = 0.002). The median BW was 700 grams and 880 grams, respectively (p = 0.001). In total, 60 extubations (42.3%) were performed during SSC in 42 PNB and 82 in incubator in 69 PNB. No incidents related to extubation during SSC were recorded. The extubation success rate was 80% in SSC versus 79.3% in incubator (p = 0.915). Most failures occurred between 3 and 24 h after extubation. There were no observed differences in heart rate or FiO2 variations between the groups, nor in the need to escalate respiratory support at 24 h after extubation (SSC 15% vs. incubator 12.2%, p = 0.628).

Conclusion

Extubation during SSC is a feasible, safe and well‐tolerated practice, while allowing PNB to experience the benefits from SSC.
Visualising and mapping historical networks of international diplomatic training
Authors: Harris Jonathan
Published: November 2024

What might methodological approaches drawing on Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Social Network Analysis (SNA) offer to sub‐disciplines in geography which have traditionally been dominated by qualitative and often micro‐scale research, such as historical or political geography? How might these approaches—often understood as opposing—be brought together to advance transnational research in particular? This article responds to these questions through a reflection on a recent project on the geopolitics of diplomatic training in the mid‐twentieth century. Building on the established use of biography to focus transnational analyses within a complex abundance of sources, the project complemented such close‐reading with computational methods of distant‐reading, able to analyse large datasets to produce prosopographies and network visualisations that help identify diffuse and larger scale political and geographical relationships. The article concludes with a consideration of how such methods might be effectively integrated in the historical or political geographer's toolkit.
Clinical value of contralateral biopsies in men with unilateral MRI foci undergoing targeted biopsy
Authors: Boesen Lars , Nørgaard Nis , Bisbjerg Rasmus , Løgager Vibeke
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the additional prostate cancer detection yield and clinical implications of performing contralateral systematic biopsies in men with unilateral suspicious magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings undergoing MRI‐guided transperineal (TP) biopsies in an outpatient clinic.

Patients and Methods

A prospective study of 655 consecutive men with unilateral MRI suspicious findings undergoing office‐based MRI‐guided TP biopsies between May 2022 and December 2023. All men had pre‐biopsy MRI followed by MRI‐guided TP fusion biopsies with at least four targeted cores per lesion plus five contralateral systematic biopsies. The primary objective was the clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) detection rate of contralateral systematic biopsies in men with no or insignificant PCa on targeted biopsies. Secondary objectives included the impact of contralateral biopsies on PCa grade upgrading, additional insignificant PCa diagnoses, and the clinical implications of multifocal csPCa detected on both targeted and contralateral cores.

Results

Any and csPCa (Gleason Grade Group [GG] ≥2) was detected in 564/655 (85%) and 471/655 (71%) men with a median age of 66 years and PSA level of 7.6 ng/mL. Overall, seven of 655 (1%) men had csPCa detected by contralateral systematic biopsies missed on MRI‐targeted biopsy, all of whom had low‐volume Gleason GG 2 PCa eligible for active surveillance. Furthermore, 70/464 (15%) men with csPCa on MRI‐targeted biopsy had matching Gleason GG 2–5 PCa on contralateral biopsy, and another seven had higher Gleason GG. However, the additional information from contralateral biopsies did not seem to influence whole‐gland treatment allocation and nerve‐sparing during surgery.

Conclusion

Contralateral systematic biopsies in men with unilateral MRI findings undergoing MRI‐guided TP targeted biopsies have limited value for csPCa detection and risk assessment for whole‐gland treatment but may be important for determining PCa multifocality considering focal therapy eligibility.
Meta‐analysis of the acoustic adaptation hypothesis reveals no support for the effect of vegetation structure on acoustic signalling across terrestrial vertebrates
Authors: Freitas Bárbara , D'Amelio Pietro B. , Milá Borja , Thébaud Christophe , Janicke Tim
Published: November 2024

Acoustic communication plays a prominent role in various ecological and evolutionary processes involving social interactions. The properties of acoustic signals are thought to be influenced not only by the interaction between signaller and receiver but also by the acoustic characteristics of the environment through which the signal is transmitted. This conjecture forms the core of the so‐called “acoustic adaptation hypothesis” (AAH), which posits that vegetation structure affects frequency and temporal parameters of acoustic signals emitted by a signaller as a function of their acoustic degradation properties. Specifically, animals in densely vegetated “closed habitats” are expected to produce longer acoustic signals with lower repetition rates and lower frequencies (minimum, mean, maximum, and peak) compared to those inhabiting less‐vegetated “open habitats”. To date, this hypothesis has received mixed results, with the level of support depending on the taxonomic group and the methodology used. We conducted a systematic literature search of empirical studies testing for an effect of vegetation structure on acoustic signalling and assessed the generality of the AAH using a meta‐analytic approach based on 371 effect sizes from 75 studies and 57 taxa encompassing birds, mammals and amphibians. Overall, our results do not provide consistent support for the AAH, neither in within‐species comparisons (suggesting no overall phenotypically plastic response of acoustic signalling to vegetation structure) nor in among‐species comparisons (suggesting no overall evolutionary response). However, when considering birds only, we found weak support for the AAH in within‐species comparisons, which was mainly driven by studies that measured frequency bandwidth, suggesting that this variable may exhibit a phenotypically plastic response to vegetation structure. For among‐species comparisons in birds, we also found support for the AAH, but this effect was not significant after excluding comparative studies that did not account for phylogenetic non‐independence. Collectively, our synthesis does not support a universal role of vegetation structure in the evolution of acoustic communication. We highlight the need for more empirical work on currently under‐studied taxa such as amphibians, mammals, and insects. Furthermore, we propose a framework for future research on the AAH. We specifically advocate for a more detailed and quantitative characterisation of habitats to identify frequencies with the highest detection probability and to determine if frequencies with greater detection distances are preferentially used. Finally, we stress that empirical tests of the AAH should focus on signals that are selected for increased transmission distance.
Higher Hospitalization Costs and Fewer Routine Discharges in the Medicaid Expansion Era for Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kalra Andrew , Ruck Jessica M. , Zhou Alice L. , Akbar Armaan F. , Leng Albert , You Bin , Casillan Alfred J. , Ha Jinny S. , Merlo Christian A. , Bush Errol L.
Published: November 2024

Background

In January 2014, states expanded Medicaid access under the Affordable Care Act. We studied the financial implications of this policy on lung transplantation, a costly procedure.

Methods

Lung transplant (LT) hospitalizations were identified within the National Inpatient Sample (2005–2020). Recipients were categorized as “pre‐expansion” (1/2005–12/2013) versus “post‐expansion” (1/2014–12/2020) of Medicaid and as being in “expander” versus “non‐expander” regions. We calculated difference‐in‐differences estimates comparing pre‐ and post‐expansion eras in expander versus non‐expander regions for inflation‐adjusted hospitalization costs and for discharge disposition. We evaluated total hospitalization costs using multivariable generalized linear regression, adjusting for recipient demographics, Charlson Comorbidity Index, single versus double‐lung transplant, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), ex‐vivo lung perfusion (EVLP), and mechanical ventilation usage.

Results

Of the 29 225 LT recipients identified, 14 085 were pre‐expansion and 15 140 were post‐expansion. More recipients were insured by Medicaid in expander n = 735 (9%) versus non‐expander n = 220, (3%) regions (p = 0.01) post‐expansion. Hospitalization costs increased post‐ versus pre‐expansion by $20 948 (95% CI = $8713–$33 183, p < 0.001) more in expander versus non‐expander regions even after adjustment for risk factors associated with increased costs. Within expander regions, recipients post‐ versus pre‐expansion were less likely to be discharged routinely (n = 2625, 28% vs. n = 3959, 44%) and more likely to be discharged to care facilities (n = 2045, 22% vs. n = 1045, 12%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although Medicaid expansion resulted in greater access to care, it was associated with increased hospitalization costs and fewer routine discharges for LT recipients. Further research is warranted to identify the reasons that underpin the financial sequelae of Medicaid expansion, including changes in access to care for sicker patients.
Cover cropping in organic reduced tillage systems: Maximizing soil cover or plant above ground biomass input?
Authors: Oberholzer Simon , Jarosch Klaus A. , Harder Nadine , Steffens Markus , Speranza Chinwe Ifejika
Published: November 2024

Cover crops are grown between two main crops to reduce periods of bare fallow. In highly diverse crop rotations, the lengths of break periods between two main crops vary highly over time and consequently the cover cropping management differs from year to year. Long‐term field trials are thus of limited use because the same cover cropping approach only appears once in several years. This increases the need to better determine the immediate effects of different cover cropping strategies on soil properties. This study evaluated two cover cropping strategies and monitored the temporal development of several soil properties on six fields in Eastern Switzerland in the 9 months period between harvest of winter wheat and sowing of spring crops. The two tested strategies were (a) double cover cropping (DCC) where two cover crops mixtures were grown subsequently and shallowly (3 cm) incorporated into the topsoil and (b) permanent soil cover (PSC) with one grass‐clover mixture, which was harvested and thus not incorporated into the soil. Soil samples at three different soil depths (0–5, 5–10 and 10–20 cm) were sampled four times in high spatial resolution and analysed using a combined approach of visible near infrared spectroscopy and conventional lab methods. Differences between the sampling times and field sites were stronger than effects of different treatments. For soil organic carbon (SOC), no significant difference was measured between treatments in 0–20 cm soil depth. Only when analysed per depth segment, the PSC treatment showed significantly higher SOC increase in 5–10 cm soil depth than the DCC treatment. This could be due to the longer soil cover and thereby associated longer root growth period in the PSC treatment, leading to higher below ground C inputs than in the DCC treatment. On the other hand, the DCC treatment showed generally higher increases in permanganate oxidizable carbon stocks (0–5 cm), microbial C (0–10 cm), microbial N (0–10 cm) and mineral N (0–10 cm) than the PSC treatment. We conclude that maximizing cover crop above ground biomass input by planting two cover crops (DCC) benefitted soil microorganisms on most fields but was less beneficial on SOC than permanent soil cover (PSC) in 5–10 cm soil depth.
Spatial and Temporal Exhumation of the Northeastern China: Insights From Low Temperature Thermochronology
Authors: Wang Yannan , Chen Lian , Zhang Jin , Zhao Cunliang , Zhao Heng , Guo Wenmu , Qu Junfeng , Li Yingjie
Published: November 2024

The northeastern (NE) China has undergone a long‐term tectonic history involving subduction–accretion of the Siberian Craton, North China Craton, and Western Pacific Plate, providing an ideal target for understanding the interactions between cratons and the Pacific oceanic lithosphere. However, the Mesozoic‐Cenozoic geological and topographic evolutions of the NE China remain unclear. Here, we present new apatite fission track data from Precambrian metamorphic rocks in the Lesser Hinggan Mountains. Apatite fission track dating yielded a group of central ages ranging from 130 ± 18 to 151 ± 11 Ma with mean track lengths varying between 13.67 ± 0.13 and 14.49 ± 0.08 μm. Thermal modeling results revealed a rapid cooling event at ca. 165–140 Ma, which was related to compressional deformations driven by shallow subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific Ocean Plate beneath the northeastern China. Furthermore, regional low temperature thermochronological datasets in NE China show additional three rapid exhumation stages, including the Early Jurassic (ca. 200–180 Ma), Early Cretaceous (ca. 120–100 Ma), and Late Cretaceous (ca. 80–60 Ma). They were associated with closure of the Mudanjiang Ocean, slab rollback of the Paleo‐Pacific Plate, and collision between the Okhotomorsk Block and southeastern Asia. As the Cenozoic, slow exhumation has emerged throughout the northeastern China.