bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New source for light dark matter isocurvature in low scale inflation
Authors: Caputo Andrea , Geller Michael , Rossi Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Light scalar and pseudoscalar particles are compelling dark matter candidates, with a vast running experimental program to discover them. Previous studies have shown that these light fields can generate sizable isocurvature perturbations in high scale inflationary models. Thereby, dark matter existence and cosmic microwave background measurements impose an upper bound on the inflationary scale. In this work, focusing on the axion case, we point out that light fields present during inflation can generate important isocurvature perturbations also in scenarios of low-scale inflation. In our mechanism, the axion field starts with some nonzero field value during inflation and rolls along its potential. Since inflation has a different duration in different patches of the Universe, different regions will then have different values of the axion field, generating cold dark matter isocurvature modes. These modes are fully correlated with the adiabatic ones and share the same spectral index. In this scenario, the axion mass determines a lower bound on the Hubble parameter during inflation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Charmonia in an unquenched quark model
Authors: Deng Qian , Ni Ru-Hui , Li Qi , Zhong Xian-Hui
Published: September 2024

In this work, we study the charmonium spectrum within an unquenched quark model including coupled-channel effects. In couple-channel calculations, we include all of the opened charmed meson channels with the once-subtracted method, meanwhile we adopt a suppressed factor to soften the hard vertices given by the P03 model in the high momentum region. We obtain a good description of both the masses and widths for the well-established states in the charmonium spectrum. Furthermore, we give predictions for the higher S-, P-, and D-wave charmonium states up to mass region of ∼5.0  GeV. The magnitude of mass shifts due to the coupled-channel effects is estimated to be about 10s MeV. Although many decay channels are opened for the higher charmonium states, they are relatively narrow states. Their widths scatter in the range of ∼10s–100  MeV. Many charmoniumlike states, such as χc1(4274), χc0(3915), χc0(4500), χc0(4700), X(4160), X(4350), Y(4500), and ψ(4660)/Y(4710), can be accommodated by the charmonium spectrum when the unquenched coupled-channel effects are carefully considered.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Efficient Characterization of Qudit Logical Gates with Gate Set Tomography Using an Error-Free Virtual
Z
Gate Model
Authors: Cao Shuxiang , Lall Deep , Bakr Mustafa , Campanaro Giulio , Fasciati Simone D. , Wills James , Chidambaram Vivek , Shteynas Boris , Rungger Ivan , Leek Peter J.
Published: September 2024

Gate set tomography (GST) characterizes the process matrix of quantum logic gates, along with measurement and state preparation errors in quantum processors. GST typically requires extensive data collection and significant computational resources for model estimation. We propose a more efficient GST approach for qudits, utilizing the qudit Hadamard and virtual Z gates to construct fiducials while assuming virtual Z gates are error-free. Our method reduces the computational costs of estimating characterization results, making GST more practical at scale. We experimentally demonstrate the applicability of this approach on a superconducting transmon qutrit.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Apparent Parity Violation in the Observed Galaxy Trispectrum
Authors: Paul Pritha , Clarkson Chris , Maartens Roy
Published: September 2024

Recent measurements of the four-point correlation function in large-scale galaxy surveys have found apparent evidence of parity violation in the distribution of galaxies. This cannot happen via dynamical gravitational effects in general relativity. If such a violation arose from physics in the early Universe it could indicate important new physics beyond the standard model, and would be at odds with most models of inflation. It is therefore now timely to consider the galaxy trispectrum in more detail. While the four-point correlation function, or equivalently the trispectrum, its Fourier counterpart, is parity invariant, the trispectrum must take redshift-space distortions into account. Although the standard Newtonian correction also respects parity invariance, we show that subleading relativistic corrections do not. We demonstrate that these can be significant at intermediate linear scales and are dominant over the Newtonian parity-invariant part around the equality scale and above. Therefore when the galaxy four-point correlation function, we should expect to detect parity violation on large scales.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Primordial Black Hole Compaction Function from Stochastic Fluctuations in Ultraslow-Roll Inflation
Authors: Raatikainen Sami , Räsänen Syksy , Tomberg Eemeli
Published: September 2024

We study the formation of primordial black holes (PBHs) with ultraslow-roll inflation when stochastic effects are important. We use the ΔN formalism and simplify the stochastic equations with an analytical constant-roll approximation. Considering a viable inflation model, we find the spatial profile of the PBH compaction function numerically for each stochastic patch, without assumptions about Gaussianity or the radial profile. The stochastic effects that lead to an exponential tail for the density distribution also make the compaction function very spiky, unlike as assumed in the literature. Naively using collapse thresholds found for smooth profiles, the PBH abundance is enhanced by up to a factor of 109, and the PBH mass distribution is spread over 3 orders of magnitude in mass. The results point to a need to redo numerical simulations of PBH formation with spiky profiles.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Ultraslow Growth of Number Entropy in an
ℓ
-Bit Model of Many-Body Localization
Authors: Aceituno Chávez David , Artiaco Claudia , Klein Kvorning Thomas , Herviou Loïc , Bardarson Jens H.
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate that slow growth of the number entropy following a quench from a local product state is consistent with many-body localization. To do this, we construct a novel random circuit ℓ-bit model with exponentially localized ℓ-bits and exponentially decaying interactions between them. We observe an ultraslow growth of the number entropy starting from a Néel state, saturating at a value that grows with system size. This suggests that the observation of such growth in microscopic models is not sufficient to rule out many-body localization.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Wasserstein speed limits for Langevin systems
Authors: Sabbagh Ralph , Movilla Miangolarra Olga , Georgiou Tryphon T.
Published: September 2024

Physical systems transition between states with finite speed that is limited by energetic costs. In this work, we derive bounds on transition times for general Langevin systems that admit a decomposition into reversible and irreversible dynamics, in terms of the Wasserstein distance between states and the energetic costs associated with respective reversible and irreversible currents. For illustration we discuss Brownian particles subject to arbitrary forcing and an RLC circuit with time-varying inductor.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Accelerating optimal elemental configuration search in crystal using Ising machine
Authors: Ichikawa Kazuhide , Ohuchi Satoru , Ueno Koki , Yokoyama Tomoyasu
Published: September 2024

This research demonstrates that Ising machines can effectively solve optimal elemental configuration searches in crystals, with Au-Cu alloys serving as an example. The energy function is derived using the cluster expansion method in the form of a QUBO function, enabling efficient problem-solving via Ising machines. Using the third-generation Fujitsu's Digital Annealer, we have successfully obtained reasonable solutions for crystal structures consisting of over 10000 atoms. Notably, we have also obtained plausible solutions for optimization problems with constrained solutions, such as situations where the composition ratio of atomic species is predetermined. These findings suggest that Ising machines can be valuable tools for addressing materials science challenges.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Efficient Algorithms for All Port-Based Teleportation Protocols
Authors: Wills Adam , Hsieh Min-Hsiu , Strelchuk Sergii
Published: September 2024

Port-based teleportation (PBT) is a form of quantum teleportation in which no corrective unitary is required on the part of the receiver. Two primary regimes exist—deterministic PBT in which teleportation is always successful, but is imperfect, and probabilistic PBT, in which teleportation succeeds with probability less than one, but teleportation is perfect upon a success. Two further regimes exist within each of these, in which the resource state used for the teleportation is fixed to a maximally entangled state or free to be optimized. Recent works have resolved the long-standing problem of efficiently implementing port-based teleportation, tackling the two deterministic cases for qudits. Here, we provide algorithms in all four regimes for qubits. Emphasis is placed on the practicality of these algorithms, where we give polynomial improvements in the known gate complexity for PBT, as well as an exponential improvement in the required number of ancillas (albeit in separate protocols). Our approach to the implementation of the square-root measurement in PBT can be directly generalized to other highly symmetric state ensembles. For certain families of states, such a framework yields efficient algorithms in the case in which the Petz-recovery algorithm for the square-root measurement runs in exponential time.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Determination of the average crystallite size and the crystallite size distribution: the envelope function approach EnvACS
Authors: Gesing Thorsten M. , Robben Lars
Published: September 2024

A procedure is presented to exactly obtain the apparent average crystallite size (ACS) of powder samples using standard in-house powder diffraction experiments without any restriction originating from the Scherrer equation. Additionally, the crystallite size distribution within the sample can be evaluated. To achieve this, powder diffractograms are background corrected and long-range radial distribution functions G(r) up to 300 nm are calculated from the diffraction data. The envelope function f
env of G(r) is approximated by a procedure determining the absolute maxima of G(r) in a certain interval (r range). Fitting of an ACS distribution envelope function to this approximation gives the ACS and its distribution. The method is tested on diffractograms of LaB6 standard reference materials measured with different wavelengths to demonstrate the validity of the approach and to clarify the influence of the wavelength used. The latter results in a general description of the maximum observable average crystallite size, which depends on the instrument and wavelength used. The crystallite site distribution is compared with particle size distributions based on transmission electron microscopy investigations, providing an approximation of the average number of crystallites per particle.
Towards dynamically configured databases for CIFs: the new modulated structures open database at the Bilbao Crystallographic Server
Authors: Gabirondo-López J. , Gabirondo-López I. , Tasci E. S. , Madariaga G.
Published: September 2024

This article presents a web-based framework to build a database without in-depth programming knowledge given a set of CIF dictionaries and a collection of CIFs. The framework consists of two main elements: the public site that displays the information contained in the CIFs in an ordered manner, and the restricted administrative site which defines how that information is stored, processed and, eventually, displayed. Thus, the web application allows users to easily explore, filter and access the data, download the original CIFs, and visualize the structures via JSmol. The modulated structures open database B-IncStrDB, the official International Union of Crystallography repository for this type of material and available through the Bilbao Crystallographic Server, has been re-implemented following the proposed framework.
Demystifying the way libraries support distance learning: a bibliometric analysis of scholarly communication in distance libraries
Authors: Papachristopoulos Leonidas
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on bibliometric research on the activities and services offered by distance libraries that serve distance learning institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of scholarly communication has always been a valuable tool for researchers and policymakers in order to understand trends, gaps and patterns in a specific field. In this paper, a bibliometric analysis has been applied based on a well-known bibliometric tool called “VOSviewer.” The articles that constitute the dataset of current research were drawn from two journals: the Journal of Library Administration and the Journal of Library and Information Services in Distance Learning.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis applied in distance libraries showed that the researchers in this domain are mainly introverts and need to prioritize engaging in the scientific research process over merely publishing good practices. Although there are a lot of libraries serving distance learning institutions (formal and non-formal), there is a notable lack of activity in the scientific publication field.

Originality/value

Distance libraries have played a significant role in supporting distance learning, and since distance education has become more important in the educational ecosystem, the analysis of its scholarly production would provide administrators, researchers and policymakers with insights for the next era of conventional libraries.
Consumer perspectives on interventions to combat fraudulent product returns in omnichannel fashion retail
Authors: Merlano Eugenio Felipe , Frei Regina , Zhang Danni , Murzacheva Ekaterina , Wood Steve
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The expansion of online shopping aligned with challenging economic conditions has contributed to increasing fraudulent retail product returns. Retailers employ numerous interventions typically determined by embedded perspectives within the company (supply side) rather than consumer-based assessments of their effectiveness (demand side). This study aims to understand how customers evaluate counter-fraud measures on opportunistic returns fraud in the UK. Based on the fraud triangle and the theory of planned behaviour, we develop an empirically informed framework to assist retail practice.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected 485 valid survey responses about consumer attitudes regarding which interventions are effective against different types of returns fraud. First, a principal component section evaluates the policies' effectiveness to identify any policy grouping that could help prioritise specific sets of policies. Second, cluster analysis follows a two-stage approach, where cluster size is determined, and then survey respondents are partitioned into subgroups based on how similar their beliefs are regarding the effectiveness of anti-fraud policies.

Findings

We identify policies relating to perceived effectiveness of interventions and create customer profiles to assist retailers in conceptualising potential opportunistic fraudsters. Our product returns fraud framework adopts a consumer perspective to capture the perceived behavioural control of potential fraudsters. Results suggest effectiveness of different types of interventions vary between different types of consumers, which leads to the development of propositions to combat the fraud.

Originality/value

This study is unique in assessing the perceived effectiveness of a range of interventions based on data collection and advanced analytics to combat fraudulent product returns in omnichannel retail.
Employee share ownership in SMEs – extending benefits for start-ups to conventional firms and social enterprises
Authors: Suarsana Denis , Lowitzsch Jens
Published: September 2024

Purpose

As this article reports, in recent years most legislative activities focused on start-ups, with as many as 12 European Union (EU) Member States having introduced tax incentives for employee share ownership (ESO) in this type of small and middle-sized enterprise (SME). But incentivising ESO in SMEs should be extended to all SMEs, the engine of the European economy, including those from the social economy, having shown their crucial function for the resilience of our societies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Against the background of this recent and very dynamic development this article, it provides an overview of the start-up business segment in comparison to other types of companies, particularly focusing on differences with the SME sector; examines the legal regulations that hinder a broader adoption of ESO in European start-ups; presents best-practice examples to demonstrate the favourable conditions already established in some EU Member States and discussed whether these reforms and best practice examples could be extended and – as is already the case in some countries – applied to the whole SME population including social economy enterprises.

Findings

Since the European Commission launched the 2011 Social Business Initiative (SBI) followed by the 2016 Start-up and Scale-up initiative, many actions to support social enterprises in view of their potential to address societal challenges and contribute to sustainable economic growth have followed. Most recently, the 2021 Social Economy Action Plan of the European Commission gave important impulses. The potential of employee buyouts offering a continuation perspective to SMEs owners looking for successors was highlighted in the 2022 EC report “Transition Pathway for Proximity and Social Economy,” calling for the implementation of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs).

Originality/value

The situation of employee share ownership in start-ups has some parallels with that in traditional SMEs, but in many respects, they differ fundamentally. Although, on the other hand, social enterprises may also have to compete with large firms for qualified staff and face challenges when growing or scaling their activities, the reason why ESO in this enterprise segment is not widespread in the EU is altogether different. In the absence of a prescribed legal form of incorporation, social enterprises operate in various forms (be it for profit or non-profit), e.g. cooperatives, closely held limited liability companies, mutuals, associations, voluntary organisations or foundations. Therefore, this article looks into the extension of the incentives for ESO to social enterprises inasmuch as they are organised in legal forms allowing for share ownership, above all in the form of limited liability companies.
Development of a double‐antibody sandwich ELISA for detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants based on nucleocapsid protein‐specific antibodies
Authors: Lv Hai , Shi Fengjuan , Yin Huimin , Jiao Yongjun , Wei Pingmin
Published: September 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic, driven by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, has posed a severe threat to global public health. Rapid, reliable, and easy‐to‐use detection methods for SARS‐CoV‐2 variants are critical for effective epidemic prevention and control. The N protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 serves as an ideal target for antigen detection. In this study, we achieved soluble expression of the recombinant SARS‐CoV‐2 N protein using an Escherichia coli expression system and generated specific monoclonal antibodies by immunizing BALB/c mice. We successfully developed 10 monoclonal antibodies against the N protein, designated 5B7, 5F2‐C11, 5E2‐E8, 6C3‐D8, 7C8, 9F2‐E9, 12H5‐D11, 13G2‐C10, 14E9‐F6, and 15H3‐E10. Using these antibodies, we established a sandwich ELISA with 6C3‐D8 as the capture antibody and 5F2‐C11 as the detection antibody. The assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 0.78 ng/mL and showed no cross‐reactivity with MERS‐CoV, HCoV‐OC43, HCoV‐NL63, and HCoV‐229E. Furthermore, this method successfully detected both wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants, including Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron. These findings indicate that our sandwich ELISA exhibits excellent sensitivity, specificity, and broad‐spectrum applicability, providing a robust tool for detecting SARS‐CoV‐2 variants.
Phillygenin attenuates cell apoptosis and microglia activation in cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion rats through activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ
Authors: Yan Chaojun , Sun Guangwei , Hu Changlong , Qiu Tao , Wang Meng , Fan Yongzhong
Published: September 2024

Ischaemic stroke is a common condition that can lead to cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury. Phillygenin (PHI), a natural bioactive compound derived from Forsythia suspensa, has been shown to play a crucial role in regulating inflammation across various diseases. However, its specific regulatory effects in ischaemic stroke progression remain unclear. In this study, we established a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model. Treatment with PHI (50 or 100 mg/kg) significantly reduced cerebral infarction in MCAO rats. PHI treatment also mitigated the increased inflammatory response observed in these rats. Additionally, PHI suppressed microglial activation by reducing iNOS expression, a marker of M1‐type polarization of microglia, and attenuated increased brain tissue apoptosis in MCAO rats. Furthermore, PHI's anti‐inflammatory effects in MCAO rats were abrogated upon co‐administration with GW9662, a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) inhibitor. In summary, PHI attenuated microglial activation and apoptosis in cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury through PPARγ activation, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for mitigating cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury.
Seed dispersal of Zoysia japonica by sika deer: An example of the “foliage is the fruit” hypothesis
Authors: Takatsuki Seiki , Imae Hiroshi , Sato Masatoshi
Published: September 2024

Zoysia japonica, a low growing grass, is tolerant to grazing and trampling. Kinkazan Island in northern Japan is inhabited by sika deer (Cervus nippon). The deer population increased in the 1970s at a shrine garden in the western part of the island, leading to expansion of Zoysia swards around the shrine garden and their colonization of remote open patches. The expansion around the garden is due to elongation of the rhizome, but expansion to remote places may be due to endozoochory by deer. This appears to be a good example of the “foliage is the fruit” hypothesis (the FF hypothesis) proposed by Janzen (1984; American Naturalist 123:338–353). To demonstrate this, we confirmed the expansion of the Zoysia swards and tested the traits of Zoysia by field surveys and indoor experiments. The Zoysia peduncles stood among the leaves, and sika deer fed on both the seeds and leaves. One deer fecal pellet contained about 20 seeds at its peak in June. In the feeding experiment, the survival rate through digestion was 38%. In the greenhouse experiment, the germination rate was 72%. An outdoor experiment showed that germination rates of the ingested seeds were 5% in a dark habitat and 58% in a bright habitat. Zoysia exhibited many of the traits presented by the FF hypothesis, and sika deer functioned as seed dispersal agents. Therefore, the Zoysia—sika deer relationship seems to support the FF hypothesis.
Analysis of unique atypical screwdriver injuries
Authors: Reyes Albaladejo Francisco , Soriano Benjamin J. , Gitto Lorenzo
Published: September 2024

Fatalities caused by sharp and pointed instruments, especially screwdrivers, are not frequently observed in the United States. The shape of the screwdriver tip generally determines the resulting wounds that can range from linear, to rectangular or cross‐shaped, often reflecting common screwdriver head shapes. Recognizing such patterns is crucial, as they can aid in identifying the potential weapon used in the crime. In the reported case, an adult male was found dead in his living room surrounded by a pool of blood, with multiple injuries. At autopsy, the pattern of penetration was consistent with that of a six‐point star (Torx) screwdriver, which has never been reported as a deadly weapon in the literature before. A Torx screwdriver has a blunt head, resulting in hybrid injuries with both penetrating and blunt force features. Because of its rigid structure and narrow tip, a Torx screwdriver may forcefully penetrate the skin, soft tissues, and bone, causing severe injuries to the deep organs. The case highlights the importance for the forensic pathologist to examine and recognize atypical penetrating wounds for the identification and location of rare weapons. High‐definition graphic documentation of the injuries allows thorough examination and comparison of injuries with potential weapons. When the weapon is not retrieved, detailed injury descriptions guide investigations toward searching for a screwdriver, improving the chances of identifying the weapon used to commit the crime.
Revealing the key signals in nestling begging behavior perceived by parent birds during parent–offspring conflict
Authors: ZHANG Ziqi , LI Qihong , CAI Yan , YANG Canchao
Published: September 2024

The parent–offspring conflict in avian species encompasses resource allocation and a balance necessary for survival for both parties. Parental investment is modulated according to various factors, among which begging is important. Endogenous hormones, particularly corticosterone (CORT), play a role in modulating begging behavior. However, most studies on hormonal regulation of begging behavior induced elevated hormone levels in the offspring through feeding or injections, thus, limiting our knowledge of the evolution of the parent–offspring conflict under natural conditions. In this study, we aimed to identify the key signals that parents respond to during interactions with their nestlings in the wild, considering factors such as endogenous hormone CORT, nestling age, and brood size, which may affect nestling begging behavior. Begging performance was evaluated by measuring the begging frequency and score of the red‐whiskered bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus), along with assessing CORT levels in feathers. CORT levels were significantly correlated with both the begging frequency and score of nestlings, while variables such as body mass and tarsus length did not influence parental feeding frequency. Additionally, factors such as the number of nestlings (brood size), age, and begging frequency were predictors of parental feeding frequency. Our findings indicate that begging frequency, nestling age, and brood size are signals that help navigate the intricacies of the parent–offspring conflict and that parents may rely on these key signals from the range of begging cues exhibited by nestlings to adjust their feeding strategies.
Shifting microbial communities in acidified seawaters: insights from polychaetes living in the CO2 vent of Ischia, Italy
Authors: ARNOLDI Irene , CARRARETTO Davide , MUNARI Marco , NANNINI Matteo , GAMBI Maria Cristina , CANNAVACCIUOLO Antonio , DELLA TORRE Camilla , GABRIELI Paolo
Published: September 2024

Oceans’ absorption of human‐related CO2 emissions leads to a process called ocean acidification (OA), consisting of the decrease of the seawater pH with negative consequences for many marine organisms. In this study, we investigate the microbial community of two species of polychaetes found in naturally acidified CO2 vents: the nereid Platynereis massiliensis complex and the syllid Syllis prolifera. Animals were collected in the CO2 vents of Castello Aragonese (Gulf of Naples, Ischia, Italy) in three zones at decreasing pH. For the analysis of the microbiome, the V3‐V4 hypervariable region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene of 40 worm samples was sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform. No difference in the microbial alpha diversity of both species was highlighted. On the contrary, the microbial composition of worms collected in the site at normal pH was different from that of the individuals obtained from the sites at lower pH. This effect was evident also in samples from the site with a slight, but relevant, degree of acidification. Amplicon sequence variants showing a significant variation among the groups of samples collected from different pH zones were reported for both polychaetes, but no common trend of variation was observed. The present study deepens our knowledge about the composition of polychaete microbiome in marine naturally acidified sites. Our results stress the importance of future investigations about the connection between the variation of environmental and polychaete microbial communities induced by OA and about the effect of these variations on polychaete key biological and ecological traits.
User needs for coastal inundation at climate time scales: A multi‐sectoral case study in the coproduction of knowledge
Authors: Sweetman Brenna M. , Dean Cayla , Auermuller Lisa , Tremblay Kathryn Noel , Katalinas Christopher , Lewinski Shannan , Cary‐Kothera Lori , Luscher‐Aissaoui Audra
Published: September 2024

Coastal regions are becoming increasingly vulnerable to flooding. Due to growing risk, there is a need for a variety of accessible flood inundation services and information to improve resilience and adaptation outcomes. To better understand these needs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office for Coastal Management and the Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services collaborated to host five virtual workshops during the COVID‐19 pandemic to understand inundation needs and deficits of five professional sectors: coastal planning, transportation and navigation, realty and insurance, health and human services, and natural resource and floodplain managers. This paper outlines the information collected from these workshops, shares recommendations for future research to improve equitable coastal resilience and highlights the value of remote engagement for knowledge coproduction. From the project results, we share cross‐cutting topics that emerged and propose a need for greater equity, inclusive engagement, interagency coordination and future research directions through scientist‐stakeholder coproduction workshops for improved coastal resilience.
Ploidy levels in diverse picocyanobacteria from the Baltic Sea
Authors: Weissenbach Julia , Aguilera Anabella , Bas Conn Laura , Pinhassi Jarone , Legrand Catherine , Farnelid Hanna
Published: September 2024

In nature, the number of genome or chromosome copies within cells (ploidy) can vary between species and environmental conditions, potentially influencing how organisms adapt to changing environments. Although ploidy levels cannot be easily determined by standard genome sequencing, understanding ploidy is crucial for the quantitative interpretation of molecular data. Cyanobacteria are known to contain haploid, oligoploid, and polyploid species. The smallest cyanobacteria, picocyanobacteria (less than 2 μm in diameter), have a widespread distribution ranging from marine to freshwater environments, contributing significantly to global primary production. In this study, we determined the ploidy level of genetically and physiologically diverse brackish picocyanobacteria isolated from the Baltic Sea using a qPCR assay targeting the rbcL gene. The strains contained one to four genome copies per cell. The ploidy level was not linked with phylogeny based on the identity of the 16S rRNA gene. The variation of ploidy among the brackish strains was lower compared to what has been reported for freshwater strains and was more similar to what has been reported for marine strains. The potential ecological advantage of polyploidy among picocyanobacteria has yet to be described. Our study highlights the importance of considering ploidy to interpret the abundance and adaptation of brackish picocyanobacteria.
Causal associations and shared genetic etiology of neurodegenerative diseases with epigenetic aging and human longevity
Authors: Guo Yu , Ma Guojuan , Wang Yukai , Lin Tingyan , Hu Yang , Zang Tianyi
Published: September 2024

The causative mechanisms underlying the genetic relationships of neurodegenerative diseases with epigenetic aging and human longevity remain obscure. We aimed to detect causal associations and shared genetic etiology of neurodegenerative diseases with epigenetic aging and human longevity. We obtained large‐scale genome‐wide association study summary statistics data for four measures of epigenetic age (GrimAge, PhenoAge, IEAA, and HannumAge) (N = 34,710), multivariate longevity (healthspan, lifespan, and exceptional longevity) (N = 1,349,462), and for multiple neurodegenerative diseases (N = 6618–482,730), including Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis. Main analyses were conducted using multiplicative random effects inverse‐variance weighted Mendelian randomization (MR), and conditional/conjunctional false discovery rate (cond/conjFDR) approach. Shared genomic loci were functionally characterized to gain biological understanding. Evidence showed that AD patients had 0.309 year less in exceptional longevity (IVW beta = −0.309, 95% CI: −0.38 to −0.24, p = 1.51E‐19). We also observed suggestively significant causal evidence between AD and GrimAge age acceleration (IVW beta = −0.10, 95% CI: −0.188 to −0.013, p = 0.02). Following the discovery of polygenic overlap, we identified rs78143120 as shared genomic locus between AD and GrimAge age acceleration, and rs12691088 between AD and exceptional longevity. Among these loci, rs78143120 was novel for AD. In conclusion, we observed that only AD had causal effects on epigenetic aging and human longevity, while other neurodegenerative diseases did not. The genetic overlap between them, with mixed effect directions, suggested complex shared genetic etiology and molecular mechanisms.
Israeli men's attitudes toward posthumous reproduction and prior consent amid ongoing armed conflict
Authors: Savitsky Bella , Eldar‐Geva Talia , Shvartsur Rachel
Published: September 2024

Background

From October 7, 2023, until August 28, 2024, 187 posthumous sperm retrieval (PSR) procedures have been conducted on deceased men, 171 of whom are soldiers. PSR was predominantly initiated by parents to cope with their profound loss. However, the attitudes of Israeli men toward this procedure are unknown.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the attitudes of Israeli men toward prior consent to PSR and posthumous‐assisted reproduction (PAR) initiated by partner or parents.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of 600 Israeli men aged 18–49 years who were questioned in February–April 2024 amid the ongoing armed conflict. The questionnaire included demographic details, role in the conflict, and attitudes toward PSR/PAR. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess agreement for PSR/PAR after adjustment for possible confounders.

Results

The average age of participants was 32 years, with 52% married or in a committed relationship and 6.5% self‐identified as having same‐sex relationships. The majority were secular (63%), 21% were traditional (21%), and 16% were religious. In terms of involvement in the ongoing conflict, 35% served in combat, 21% in non‐combat roles, and 44% did not participate. Most men (71%) prefer pre‐documenting their PSR preferences, with 70% advocating for consent during recruitment for regular military service and 78% before reserve service. Regarding PAR, 37% opposed it at their partner's request, while 47% opposed it at their parents’ request. In a multivariable model, the odds of approval of PAR following parental request were four‐ and three‐fold higher among traditional and secular versus religious men (odds ratio, OR = 4.1, 95% CI: 2.0–8.1 and OR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.8–6.2, respectively) and following the request of a partner, twice higher among traditional and secular versus religious (OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.1–4.2 and OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.1–3.6, respectively).

Conclusion

While it is understandable that grieving parents seek solace through PSR, consent should be obtained from the men themselves, as a considerable proportion do not support the process as it is currently performed.
A comprehensive review on p38MAPK signaling as a potent radioprotector in testis
Authors: Yang Juan , Ou Xiangying , Zeng Huihong , Shao Lijian
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have shown that the activation of p38MAPK signaling plays a crucial role in regulating gonadal cell fate decisions in both mouse and human. Excessive activation of p38MAPK by radiation significantly causes testicular damage and negatively affects the male reproductive function. Therefore, fine‐tuned regulation of p38MAPK signaling is critical in both physiological and pathological conditions.

Result

This review summarizes the impact of p38MAPK signaling on testicular germ cells and microenvironment under normal condition. The relationship between radiation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and p38MAPK is summarized. In conclusion, radiation exposure triggers the overactivation of p38MAPK, which is regulated by ROS, resulting in testicular damage. Various p38MAPK‐targeting agents are discussed, providing guidance for developing new strategies.
Genital gender‐affirming surgery trends in Germany: Total population data with 19,600 cases from 2006 to 2022
Authors: Aksoy Cem , Wellenbrock Sascha , Reimold Philipp , Karschuck Philipp , Ozturk Mahmut , Hirsch Tobias , Sohn Michael , Eisenmenger Nicole , Kliesch Sabine , Morgenstern Saskia , Zacharis Aristeidis , Huber Johannes , Flegar Luka
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To delineate the current trends regarding gender‐affirming surgeries (GAS) in Germany.

Methods

Analysis of German hospital quality reports from 2006 to 2022 was conducted using the reimbursement.info tool. The German procedure classification (OPS) codes 5‐646.0 for masculinizing‐ and 5‐646.1 for feminizing surgery were assessed to identify GAS. Linear regression models were utilized for the analysis and depiction of current trends.

Results

A total of 19,632 gender‐affirming procedures were performed during the study period with an exponential increase over the years. Masculinizing surgeries increased from 246 in 2006 to 1291 cases in 2022 (increase by 424%; p < 0.001). The highest annual increase of 37.2% in numbers was from 2018 to 2019 (from 1235 to 1694 cases). Feminizing surgeries increased from 180 cases in 2006 to 799 procedures in 2022 (increase by 343%; p < 0.001). The cases increased most between 2015 and 2016 from 277 to 502 cases (81.2%). The number of hospitals offering these surgeries expanded from 24 in 2006 to 29 in 2022 (21% increase; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an exponential growth in numbers feminizing and masculinizing of GAS performed each year in Germany. Furthermore, a discernible trend emerges with a propensity for concentration of procedures within selected high‐caseload centers across Germany.
Editorial: DoesESWL‐ERCPfor pancreatic duct stone removal change the natural course of symptomatic chronic calcific pancreatitis? Authors' reply
Authors: Liu Yu , Hu Liang‐Hao
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Yiu et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18224andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18253
Apixaban anti‐Xa levels in clinical practice: A case report
Authors: Clark Sarah , Alcala‐Zermeno Juan Luis
Published: September 2024

Apixaban is a widely used direct oral anticoagulant that is recommended over warfarin therapy for many clinical indications. In patients with atrial fibrillation, dose reductions are recommended for patients with advanced age (≥80 years), low weight (≤60 kg) or elevated serum creatinine (≥1.5 mg/dL), but there is no routine laboratory monitoring necessary for long term‐use. Furthermore, apixaban dose reductions due to renal dysfunction are not recommended when treating acute venous thromboembolism. Apixaban‐calibrated anti‐Xa assays are readily available at some medical centres, and they may be of clinical utility in certain circumstances such as in patients with renal insufficiency, medication adherence assessment, periprocedural planning, extremes in body weight and advanced age. Here, we describe the case of an elderly patient with chronic kidney disease taking apixaban for acute pulmonary embolism. The patient had an unanticipated prolonged apixaban half‐life, with detectable apixaban‐calibrated anti‐Xa levels for >10 days after the last administered dose, which delayed a necessary surgical intervention by >1 week. This case is an example of appropriately using apixaban‐calibrated anti‐Xa levels to guide therapeutic decision making in perioperative planning.
Organizational ethical pressure as a threat to employee health: The buffering roles of ethical leadership and employee ethical efficacy
Authors: Wang Zhen , Hannah Sean T.
Published: September 2024

Competitive pressures, resource constraints, high shareholder/stakeholder expectations, and other dynamics may lead to organizations putting pressure on employees to act unethically to meet goals. Yet, the effects of this pressure on employee health and factors that can abate it are unclear. Based on the job demands‐resources model, this study examines whether, how, and when organizational ethical pressure harms employees' psychological and physical health and what factors can buffer its negative effects. According to the findings of a two‐wave lagged data study involving 212 healthcare employees, results show that organizational ethical pressure causes ethical strain in employees, resulting in both psychological and physical health problems, with these effects less pronounced when employees have higher levels of ethical efficacy. An integrated effect was also discovered, in which employees' ethical efficacy increases when led by a more ethical leader, thereby buffering the effect of ethical pressure on ethical strain and health problems. Overall, our research identifies organizational ethical pressure as a significant threat to employee health and provides preliminary approaches to mitigate its effects.
Youths' relationship with culture: Tracing sixth graders' learning through designing culturally centred multimedia projects
Authors: Yan Lili , Litts Breanne K. , Tehee Melissa , Baggaley Stuart , Jenkins Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Although education is framed as a future‐oriented enterprise, we often fail to serve the diverse futurities of youth, particularly in formal learning environments. The cultural norms of formal learning environments are rooted in dominant ways of being and knowing and this shapes how learning environments and learning technologies can be designed. As a result, the futures youth can envision for themselves in these spaces are often static and limited by the dominant culture. As a move toward supporting youths' diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences, we ask how youth develop relationship with culture through creating culturally centred multimedia projects. Guided by a case study approach, we collected thirty‐six remixing multimedia projects from twelve sixth graders, who created these projects for three culturally centred learning activities over a school year. Findings share one case from each learning activity to demonstrate how students represent their relationships with culture through three forms of symbolising. Implications from this work reject the settled expectations of dominant culture in formal learning environments and, instead, invite youths' knowledges and experiences through remixing with multimedia.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Formal learning environments are shaped by norms rooted in the dominant culture but are often assumed to be acultural spaces.

Multimedia technologies have been leveraged to engage youth with culture in the classroom.

Remixing is a sociocultural learning process that allows youth to reimagine their lived experiences.

What this paper adds

Sixth graders' relationships with culture were mediated by remixing with multimedia resources in a series of culturally centred multimedia projects.

Forms of symbolising in students' remixing works reveal diverse relationships with their own culture and other cultures.

Culturally centred multimedia projects afford the development of intertwined and reciprocal relationships with one's own culture and other cultures.

Implications for practice

Formal learning environments and embedded learning activities often operate on static or limited relationships between youth and their diverse range of cultural experiences.

Engaging with multimedia projects can develop students' relationships with their own culture and other cultures in a reciprocal way.

Supporting the development of diverse relationships with culture is crucial to designing a culturally centred learning environment.
Exploring Twitter as a social learning space for education scholars: An analysis of value‐added contributions to the #TPACK network
Authors: Ebersole Liz , Foulger Teresa S. , Jin Yi , Mourlam Daniel James
Published: September 2024

Social media has been shown to be an efficient way to engage in networked participatory scholarship (NPS), which is defined as the use of online social networks to share and further develop scholarship. As leaders in the field, educational technology scholars should be at the forefront of this practice. We used social network analysis (SNA) to examine the structure and characteristics of the #TPACK Twitter network and to determine whether and how the users were engaging in value‐added NPS. Our findings revealed that the #TPACK Twitter network was loosely organized, and users were not very well connected outside of their clusters. Our findings also revealed that #TPACK tweets largely did not represent value‐added NPS. The majority of posts lacked useful context, were limited to merely sharing links to resources and did not establish meaningful interactions among users. The implications of this study provide a new direction for educational technology researchers and PK‐12 practitioners to approach social media from a value‐added standpoint and to apply value‐added NPS to improve their use of social media to advance research, enhance professional learning and forge closer ties between researchers and practitioners.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Publication in high‐impact academic journals and measuring research impact through citations and journal indexing is still the dominant practice in research dissemination; however, there is growth in the use of alternative methods and the use of altmetrics to measure the impact of these methods.

Scholars struggle with using social media in ways that align with networked participatory scholarship (NPS).

Social network analysis (SNA) is the study of the structure and characteristics of the relationships that form in social networks, and can be used to analyze an online social network.

What this paper adds

Value‐added social learning theory and NPS can be used in SNA to both evaluate and inform scholars' social media practices.

Educational technology scholars and practitioners struggle with using social media for value‐added NPS.

Lost opportunities for value‐added NPS that were documented in this study include lack of engagement with the wider network, not sharing the role of spreading ideas and not making value‐added contributions.

Implications for practice and policy

Education scholars should use SNA as a tool to evaluate the level of value‐added NPS in the social media networks around areas of study they care about so that they can develop both personal and systemic plans for implementing value‐added NPS to create more dynamic learning spaces on these platforms.

Institutions should investigate ways they can remove barriers and incentivize value‐added NPS.

Innovations in the dissemination of scholarship should involve helping scholars to develop the skills needed for successful value‐added NPS.