bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pensions are boring: employee engagement with pensions, using the transtheoretical model of behavioural change
Authors: Butler Steve
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This case study aims to review the impact of using the transtheoretical model of behavioural change in the design of a digital pension journey with the intension of increasing engagement by employees at the point of retirement in their pension choices.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study considers the employee engagement with an existing digital pension journey before and after the tool is redesigned using the transtheoretical model of behavioural change.

Findings

This case study highlights the positive impact of using the transtheoretical model of behavioural change in designing a digital pension journey, highlighting the benefit of supporting employees in the pre-contemplation and contemplation stages of their engagement with their pension.

Originality/value

The transtheoretical model of behavioural change has traditionally been used to help people overcome addictions and other problematic behaviours. This case study highlights how it can be used in other settings to support behavioural change.
A Decade‐Long Analysis of Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance in a Neurosurgical Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Basnet Ajaya , Shrestha Apurba , Sharma Gopal Raman , Shrestha Shila , Khanal Laxmi Kant , Rai Junu Richhinbung , Maharjan Rajendra , Basnet Bijaya , Rai Shiba Kumar
Published: November 2024

Multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria cause infections with higher risks of morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. Understanding the antimicrobial resistance patterns of these pathogens is crucial for effective treatment and managing resistance. Therefore, this retrospective study examined the prevalence, causes, and trends in antimicrobial resistance in bacterial infections at a neurosurgical hospital in Nepal. We analyzed the demographics, bacteriological profiles, and antimicrobial susceptibility results in patients who visited Dirghayu Guru Hospital and Research Center, Kathmandu, Nepal, between January 2014 and January 2024, using SPSS, version 17.00. Among 4758 patients, 465 (9.77%) had infections caused by 571 bacteria. Of them, 435 (93.55%) patients had urinary tract infections, 89 (19.14%) had bloodstream infections, and 31 (6.67%) had respiratory tract infections. Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 172, 30.12%) was the predominant bacteria. Proportions of drug‐resistant Enterobacterales and gram‐positive cocci among drug‐resistant bacteria against tetracyclines were 83.33% and 45.83%, cephalosporins were 78.02% and 40.45%, quinolones were 72.25% and 50.00%, aminoglycosides were 65.14% and 43.53%, carbapenems were 62.96% and 30.00%, penicillins were 54.55% and 57.89%, and penicillin with beta‐lactamase inhibitors (PwBLIs) were 40.54% and 42.31%, respectively. Proportions of drug‐resistant nonfermenters among drug‐resistant bacteria showed 100.00% resistance to these antimicrobials. MDR isolates (n = 118, 20.67%) were 100.00% susceptible to piperacillin–tazobactam and 83.33% to polymyxin B. Over the years, resistance increased for cephalosporins (48.15%–60.53%) but decreased for carbapenems (50.00%–33.33%), penicillins (64.29%–42.31%), PwBLIs (50.00%–12.50%), aminoglycosides (60.00%–49.12%), tetracyclines (100.00%–16.67%), and polymyxins (76.22%–16.67%). One‐tenth of hospital‐visiting patients had bacterial infections, with three‐fourths involving Enterobacterales and one‐fifth involving MDR bacteria. In recent years, resistance to cephalosporins has increased, whereas resistance to other beta‐lactams, aminoglycosides, and polymyxins has decreased.
STRUGGLING WITH THE DIGITAL NOMAD: Transnational teleworkers as the new ‘creative class’ in the urban marketplace?
Authors: Sequera Jorge
Published: November 2024

In this article I examine the emergence of digital nomads as the ‘new creative class’ in urban marketing strategies that highlight these workers’ technological proficiency and hypermobility and blur the lines between work, leisure and travel in a globalized digital context. I explore the evolution of neoliberal urban marketing strategies and entrepreneurial urbanism—where cities compete to attract this mobile, knowledge and tech‐savvy workforce, challenging traditional workspaces and altering the socio‐economic landscape of cities. First, I review the widely criticized concepts of ‘creative class’ and ‘creative cities’. I then examine the literature on digital nomadism and the need for a spatial and urban studies perspective. Finally, I propose new critical research questions around the sociospatial impact of digital nomad politics in cities. In summary, this article posits that digital nomadism is an aspirational rhetorical concept based on technological skills and global mobility, representing a new strategy in urban marketing and competition and a new challenge for urban scholars.
Recent and emerging food packaging alternatives: Chemical safety risks, current regulations, and analytical challenges
Authors: Lacourt Charlene , Mukherjee Keya , Garthoff Jossie , O'Sullivan Aaron , Meunier Leo , Fattori Vittorio
Published: November 2024

Food contact materials should not release their constituent substances into food at levels harmful to human health nor change the food composition, taste, or odor unacceptably. The historical evolution of food packaging shows that the use of plastics has increased dramatically, because of its convenience, lightweight, and cost effectiveness, but carries a significant environmental impact. Influenced by trends such as growing awareness of the environmental footprint and stricter safety requirements, conventional packaging is now progressively evolving toward new alternatives. All stakeholders in the agrifood system are involved in the journey to transform food packaging to more sustainable alternatives, while maintaining the important functionalities of suitable food packaging. The current most promising food packaging alternatives are presented in this review with their benefits, limitations, and associated potential safety hazards, with a focus on chemical hazards. Although some potential hazards are common to conventional packaging, others are specific to the new alternatives. Identification of potential chemical hazards associated with these new packaging alternatives is important to anticipate any risks posed to consumer safety. With much diversity in packaging types and rules aimed at ensuring safety drastically varying between jurisdictions, it is not always easy to determine the best way to assess the safety of food packaging. International guidance on principles for safe food packaging could help drive global harmonization and would play a crucial role in ensuring a consistent and science‐based framework for the safety and compliance of new and emerging food packaging.
Farnesylthiosalicylic Acid Through Inhibition of Galectin‐3 Improves Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer Disease via Multiple Pathways
Authors: Qiu Qing , Li Cui , Zhao Xiaoli , Yang Mengting , Ding Shushu , Liang Haiying , Chen Tingting
Published: November 2024

Aims

Many factors affect the neuroinflammatory response in patients with Alzheimer disease (AD). Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) is closely related to microglial activation in the nervous system and can promote the aggregation of cancer cells in tumors. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS) affects neuroinflammation in Aβ1–42 mice through Gal‐3.

Methods

We used the Morris water maze, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), Western blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence to conduct our study.

Results

FTS reduced the levels of proinflammatory factors and microglial activation in Aβ1–42 mice. FTS inhibited total and membrane expression levels of Gal‐3 in Aβ1–42 mice, and the anti‐inflammatory effect of FTS was reversed by Gal‐3–adeno‐associated viral (AAV). FTS reduced the expression levels of toll‐like receptors (TLRs), effects that were reversed by Gal‐3‐AAV. Moreover, FTS ameliorated Aβ oligomerization and accumulation in Aβ1–42 mice, effects that were also reversed by Gal‐3‐AAV. FTS, through the inhibition of the Gal‐3–c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, reduced PS1 expression; in addition, inhibition of Gal‐3 increased the Aβ‐degrading enzymes in Aβ1–42 mice. FTS‐induced improvements in cognition in Aβ1–42 mice were reversed by Gal‐3‐AAV.

Conclusion

FTS may through inhibiting Gal‐3 reduce the expression of TLR4 and CD14 and alleviate Aβ pathology, downregulating Aβ‐stimulated TLR2, TLR4, and CD14 expression, and thus alleviate neuroinflammation in Aβ1–42 mice.
Prognostic Factors Associated With Increased Mortality in Pediatric Veno‐Occlusive Disease Following Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Zaidman Irina , Barsoum Natalie , Even‐Or Ehud , Daher Miriam , Aran Adi Avniel , Stepensky Polina , Gefen Aharon
Published: November 2024

Background

Hepatic veno‐occlusive disease (VOD) is a life‐threatening complication of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and is categorized as a transplant‐related, systemic endothelial disease. Severe VOD can lead to multi‐organ dysfunction (MOF) and is associated with a high mortality rate.

Objective

To evaluate the incidence of VOD in children after HCT and analyze the outcomes and risk factors associated with increased mortality.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study of 1243 children with malignant and non‐malignant diseases who underwent HCT at two large pediatric centers over 20 years.

Results

One hundred one patients (8%) developed VOD post HCT. Most patients developed VOD post allogeneic HCT (76%) versus autologous (24%). The incidence of VOD was twice as high in children with malignant diseases compared to non‐malignant (68% vs. 32%). A much higher incidence of VOD occurred in patients after a busulfan‐based regimen versus total body irradiation‐based and treosulfan‐based, 73%, 18%, and 1%, respectively. The 100‐day survival rate of HCT patients with VOD was 69%. The overall survival rate of the entire group was 50%, showing improvement over the span of the study years, from 40% between 2000 and 2009 to 63% between 2010 and 2021 (p = 0.022). Factors associated with increased mortality included infections before transplant (p = 0.013), conditioning regimen (p = 0.01), abnormal liver function (p = 0.019), presence of ascites (p = 0.008), MOF (p < 0.001), and the need for admission to a pediatric intensive care unit (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in survival rates between children treated with defibrotide alone or with those treated with defibrotide and steroids (61% and 65%, respectively; p = 0.685).

Conclusions

Severe VOD in pediatric patients following HCT remains a life‐threatening complication with a high mortality rate. Early diagnosis and treatment with defibrotide are critical for managing this condition. In our cohort, the addition of steroids to defibrotide was not associated with improved outcomes.
Population pharmacokinetic analysis of quizartinib in patients with newly diagnosed FLT3‐internal‐tandem‐duplication‐positive acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Vaddady Pavan , Glatard Anaïs , Smania Giovanni , Nakayama Shintaro , Inoue Hiroyuki , Kurumaddali Abhinav , Abutarif Malaz , Zheng Ming
Published: November 2024

The population pharmacokinetics (PK) of quizartinib and its pharmacologically active metabolite AC886 have been previously described in healthy volunteers (HV) and relapsed/refractory (R/R) FLT3‐internal‐tandem‐duplication‐positive (FLT3‐IDT‐positive) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients receiving quizartinib monotherapy. In this analysis, we characterized the population PK of quizartinib and AC886 in newly diagnosed FLT3‐ITD‐positive AML patients receiving standard induction and consolidation chemotherapy as background treatment, using data from the Phase 3 QuANTUM‐First trial and 12 earlier studies. Quizartinib PK were best described by a three‐compartment model with sequential zero‐ and first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination. A two‐compartment model with first‐order metabolite formation and first‐order elimination best fitted AC886 data. The PK of both moieties showed large interindividual variability (approximately 70% coefficient of variation for systemic clearances). The use of strong cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) inhibitors had the largest impact on exposure, increasing the steady‐state area under the curve during the dosing interval (AUCss) by 1.8‐fold. This is consistent with observations in HV and R/R AML patients and confirms the need for dose adjustments during coadministration. A novel finding in newly diagnosed AML patients was the phase‐dependent change in steady‐state quizartinib exposure: dose‐normalized AUCss values were 0.6‐fold during induction, similar during consolidation, and 1.4‐fold during continuation compared to R/R AML patients receiving quizartinib monotherapy. The present analysis highlighted the comparison of quizartinib and AC886 PK between newly diagnosed AML patients and previously studied populations, informed dose modifications needed with strong CYP3A inhibitors, and supported the use of derived individual exposure metrics in separate exposure‐response analyses.
The World Bank and Rural Land Titling in Africa: The Case of Tanzania
Authors: Stein Howard , Odgaard Rie , Askew Kelly , Maganga Faustin
Published: November 2024

In 2021, the World Bank, in association with the Tanzanian Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, added yet another chapter to the long and contentious history of land tenure reform in Tanzania. It approved US$ 150 million for the second phase of a village‐wide individual titling pilot programme that employs new technologies for surveying under the rubric of a private sector competitiveness project. This article assesses the nature, evolution and impact of the World Bank project in Tanzania within the context of its broader titling agenda in Africa. It provides an overview of the formation of the World Bank's land policy agenda in Africa, followed by an evaluation of the titling project in Tanzania. The final part of the article critically examines the arrival of new actors and players in Tanzania and assesses the new World Bank project.
Cucumber beetles negatively impact pollinator visitation to cucurbit flowers
Authors: Leach Ashley , Kaplan Ian
Published: November 2024

Herbivorous pests in agricultural systems are often characterised by their direct impact on crops, however indirect effects can compromise critical agroecosystem services like pollination. Cucurbit production relies on pollinators, but also suffers from cucumber beetles (Acalymma vittatum and Diabrotica spp.) that have an affinity for cucurbit flowers, which may reduce pollination.

Over four field seasons, we observed pollination in two cucurbit crops, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) and assessed the impact of flower‐infesting cucumber beetles on the identity, number, and duration of pollinator visits.

In all years of the study and across both crops, pollinator visitation decreased as cucumber beetle density increased. Wild bees disproportionately supplied pollination services to infested flowers and were responsible for the majority (60%–70%) of visitation at higher floral infestations (>5 beetles/flower). Supplemented pollinators spent >50% less time on flowers infested with beetles compared to flowers without beetles, however this was only noted in 1 year in watermelon.

While herbivory is known to impact pollination in cucurbits, we demonstrate that the presence of herbivores in cucurbit flowers can also impact pollinator activity. Further, these changes may have important implications to the pollination and pest management programs used in these systems.
Risk‐Taking in Bluebirds After Exposure to a Nest Predator Relates to Parental Roles and Shows Little Cooperation Between Partners
Authors: Wiebe Karen L. , Tkaczyk Simon P.
Published: November 2024

Parents may experience a trade‐off between caring for offspring and protecting themselves from predators. The reproductive value hypothesis predicts that parents should take more risks for older, more valuable offspring, whereas the harm to offspring hypothesis predicts that parents should risk more for vulnerable offspring that would suffer most from a lack of parental care at the moment. After exposing parent mountain bluebirds (Sialia, currucoides) to a model predator, we recorded latency times for them to touch, to look into, and to enter their nestbox and the number of times they inspected the box across three breeding stages: nest‐building, incubation and nestling‐rearing. Females took greater risks than males during the nest‐building and incubation stages by inspecting and entering boxes sooner and more times, consistent with their role in parental care at those early breeding stages that requires them to enter the box. Risk‐taking in males was consistent with the reproductive value hypothesis, increasing across breeding stages. In contrast, females took the greatest risk during incubation, consistent with the harm to offspring hypothesis. Furthermore, the riskiest behaviours were not correlated between pair members, and both sexes assumed the risk to first inspect the nestbox approximately equally. This suggests there is not a ‘war of attrition’ between mates over risk‐taking, but neither was there cooperation by the male to facilitate the rapid resumption of parental care by his mate. The results highlight that patterns of investment in nest defense in birds may be sex‐specific.
Executive Equity‐Based Compensation and Tournament Incentives
Authors: Lasfer Meziane , Ye Xiaoke
Published: November 2024

We find that the losers in CEO promotion tournaments sell their equity holdings profitably to mitigate the reductions in the promotion‐based component of their contracts. They avoid selling before losing the contest to maximize their promotion probabilities. Those who are more likely to compete in the tournament and to face a greater forgone tournament prize trade more aggressively. Our results suggest that tournament losers consider their trading opportunities as outside options to compensate themselves ex‐post. This strategy weakens the relationship between tournament incentives and firm performance and highlights new implications for tournament incentives models, compensation committees, and insider trading regulations.
Results of an Australian trial of an automated insulin delivery (AID) system and other studies support likely benefit of AID use for many Australian adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Jenkins Alicia J. , Januszewski Andrzej S. , Kirby Adrienne , Hendrieckx Christel , McAuley Sybil A. , Lee Melissa H. , Paldus Barbora , Vogrin Sara , de Bock Martin I. , Abraham Mary B. , Bach Leon A. , Burt Morton G. , Cohen Neale D. , Colman Peter G. , Davis Elizabeth A. , Holmes‐Walker D. J. , Kaye Joey , Keech Anthony C. , Kumareswaran Kavita , MacIsaac Richard J. , McCallum Roland W. , Sims Catriona M. , Speight Jane , Stranks Stephen N. , Sundararajan Vijaya , Trawley Steven , Ward Glenn M. , Jones Timothy W. , O'Neal David N. ,   for the Australian JDRF Closed Loop Research Group
Published: November 2024

Less than 20% of Australians with type 1 diabetes (T1D) meet recommended glucose targets. Technology use is associated with better glycaemia, with the most advanced being automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, which are now recommended as gold‐standard T1D care. Our Australian AID trial shows a wide spectrum of adults with T1D can achieve recommended targets. Other studies, including lived experience data, are supportive. Insulin pumps are not subsidised for most Australian adults with T1D. We advocate change.
A new family of solutions for graph‐restricted cooperative games: rethinking the weight of intermediary power
Authors: Alarcón Antonio C. , Gallardo José M. , Jiménez‐Losada Andrés
Published: November 2024

In graph‐restricted cooperative games, a group of agents, represented by the nodes of a graph, work together to make a profit. However, two agents can cooperate within a coalition only if they are connected by the graph in the coalition. Several allocation rules have been proposed for these games, but there is something in common in all of them: if a player is an indispensable intermediary to communicate with the players in a coalition, this player will receive, at least, the same share of the profit generated by the coalition as the players who belong to it. In other words, intermediation power is valued, at least, as much as active cooperation. In some situations, this is neither fair nor realistic. In this paper, we introduce a family of values for graph‐restricted games that value intermediary power less than active cooperation.
Is Exposure to Conflict‐Related Violence Associated With Less Intergroup Empathy? The Moderating Role of Ideology
Authors: Ruhrman Anat , Pliskin Ruthie , Shuman Eric , van der Toorn Jojanneke , Halperin Eran
Published: November 2024

Exposure to conflict‐related violence is one of the most harmful consequences of living amidst a violent intergroup conflict. While its potential significance is profound, the impact of exposure to conflict‐related violence on intergroup empathy remains largely unexplored. The current paper aims to address this gap by proposing political ideology as a potential moderator of the exposure‐empathy link. Three studies conducted among Jewish‐Israeli participants reveal an interactive effect of exposure to conflict‐related violence and political ideology on intergroup empathy. In Study 1, high (vs. low) exposure to conflict‐related violence was associated with decreased empathy among rightists—but increased empathy among leftists—towards individual outgroup members. In Study 2, political ideology also moderated the exposure‐empathy relationship: Bereaved (vs. non‐bereaved) rightists exhibited significantly less intergroup empathy towards both an individual bereaved outgroup member and the outgroup as a whole, an effect not found among leftists. Study 3 revealed a similar, albeit marginally significant, interactive effect of exposure to conflict‐related violence and political ideology on empathy towards individuals living in a different violent conflict. Finally, an internal meta‐analysis provided further, more robust evidence for these effects. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of the findings and suggest future directions for research on this important issue.
Histone Deacetylase 7‐Derived 7‐Amino Acid Peptide Increases Skin Wound Healing via Regulating Epidermal Fibroblast Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Liu Huina , Li Hua , Bai Xuefeng , Zhao Yue , Cai Yannan , Pan Huiqing , Guo Linyan , Liu Kun , Liu Qian , Huang Xiaochun , Zampetaki Anna , Margariti Andriana , Zeng Lingfang , Cai Ting
Published: November 2024

Due to the complexity of wound healing, how to achieve successful healing is a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we found that the histone deacetylase‐7‐derived 7‐amino acid peptide (7A, MHSPGAD), especially its phosphorylated version 7Ap (MH[pSer]PGAD), increased dermal fibroblast cell HDFα proliferation and migration via elevated delta‐catenin (CTNND1) serine phosphorylation‐mediated beta‐catenin (CTNNB) nuclear translocation and subsequent upregulation of c‐Myc and cyclin D1 expression. 7Ap physically interacted with platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) and increased PDGFR interaction with cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6). The PDGFR siRNA or CDK6 siRNA knockdown ablated 7AP‐induced CTNND1 phosphorylation and subsequent c‐Myc/cyclin D1 expression, indicating a novel 7Ap‐PDGFR‐CDK6‐CTNND1/CTNNB signal pathway in regulating fibroblast proliferation and migration. Furthermore, 7Ap increased human umbilic vein endothelial cell proliferation and tube formation, suggesting an angiogenic effect. In a full‐thickness excision wound rat model, the local administration of 50 ng/mL of 7Ap in hydrogel exerted a similar effect as 1 μg/mL vascular endothelial growth factor on accelerating wound healing, featured by enhanced fibroblast proliferation and migration, collagen deposition, and increased new vessel formation during the early phase of wound healing. Taken together, this study not only elicited a novel signal pathway in fibroblast proliferation but also paved an avenue to develop 7Ap as a treatment option for skin wound healing.
The Prognostic Potential of circRNAs in Multiple Myeloma: Insights From Whole Bone Marrow and Purified Plasma Cells
Authors: Jakobsen Theresa , Pløen Gro Grunnet , Behsen Alenka Djarmila , Møller Holger Jon , Plesner Torben , Dybkær Karen , Andersen Morten Nørgaard , Misund Kristine , Kristensen Lasse Sommer
Published: November 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a haematological malignancy with abnormal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow (BM), and MM patients with highly proliferative plasma cells have reduced overall survival. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous, non‐coding molecules that are promising biomarkers in cancer. Here, we present the largest study of circRNAs in MM to date and explore the prognostic potential of circRNAs and the link between proliferation and circRNA expression in MM. We performed deep total RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) on two cohorts: one cohort consisting of 45 whole BM MM patient samples and 13 healthy controls (HCs), and another cohort consisting of 43 CD138‐purified plasma cell MM patient samples. We found that circRNAs are globally upregulated in the whole BM of MM patients compared to HCs. In whole BM, low proliferation and high circRNA levels were associated with a poor prognosis, while in purified plasma cells, low proliferation and high circRNA levels were associated with a favourable prognosis. Individual circRNAs from purified plasma cells were found to be significantly associated with MM patient outcomes and provide additional prognostic value to the proliferative indexes. Together, our findings emphasise the potential of circRNAs as prognostic biomarkers in MM.
Green hydrogen production by PEM water electrolysis up to the year 2050: Prospective life cycle assessment using learning curves
Authors: Koj Jan Christian , Zapp Petra , Wieland Christoph , Görner Klaus , Kuckshinrichs Wilhelm
Published: November 2024

Water electrolysis technologies for producing green hydrogen are promising options for avoiding the use of fossil fuels and thus limiting climate change. Hydrogen can be used in a variety of sectors, enabling sector coupling, and strengthening the security of the energy supply through its storability. Environmental impacts provoked by green hydrogen production are comparatively low and improving manufacturing processes and technological advances will enable to further reduce the demand for raw materials and electricity and thus the environmental impacts. The objective of this study is to compare the status quo with prospective trends and target values. Learning curves of expected specific electricity demand and critical raw material (CRM) intensity are applied, and environmental impacts are subsequently analyzed via life cycle assessment. This study focuses on the polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis technology. As a result of the calculated learning curves, the CRM intensity could be reduced by more than 96% between 2022 and 2050. The specific electricity demand is projected to be reduced by 11.2%–22.5%. Combining the extrapolated reductions of electricity and CRM demand, a climate change impact decrease of 16.5%–28.5% is possible for green hydrogen production until the year 2050.
Potential Output Pessimism and Austerity in the European Union
Authors: KUANG PEI , MITRA KAUSHIK
Published: November 2024

The paper develops a business cycle model with policymakers' learning about potential output to analyze the European recession following the Global Financial Crisis. The initial recession led to overpessimism about potential output and cyclically adjusted budget balance (CAB), triggering fiscal austerity. The austerity caused further recession, which reinforced potential output and CAB pessimism, requiring continued austerity. The mutual reinforcement between pessimism and austerity contributed to the prolonged recession. The model replicates new findings regarding revisions to potential output estimates and the relationship between fiscal consolidation and policymakers' beliefs. Without policymakers' overpessimism, Eurozone GDP would have been 4.5% higher in 2012.
An Evaluation of VYC‐17.5L for the Treatment of Marionette Lines: A Prospective, Open‐Label, Postmarketing Study
Authors: Cueto Sofia Ruiz Del , Urdiales Galvez Fernando , Gritti Alessandro , Kefalas Nicola , de la Guardia Carola , Kerson Graeme
Published: November 2024

Background

Marionette lines are a feature of the aging face, descending from the oral commissures towards the jaw. VYC‐17.5 L is a dermal filler that contains 17.5 mg/mL of hyaluronic acid (HA) and lidocaine (3 mg/mL); it is intended for the treatment of skin depressions. VYC‐17.5 L has been shown to be safe and effective in different conditions, but there is a lack of published literature on its effectiveness in marionette lines.

Aims

This 12‐month prospective, open‐label, post‐marketing study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of the injectable HA filler VYC‐17.5 L for the improvement of marionette lines.

Methods

Adults (≥ 18 years) with mild‐to‐severe marionette lines on the validated Allergan Marionette Line Scale (AMLS) received VYC‐17.5 L on Day 1 with optional touch‐up on Day 14. The primary endpoint was proportion of participants with ≥ 1‐point change in AMLS from baseline at Month 1 (M1). Secondary endpoints were investigator‐ and participant‐rated Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), FACE‐Q satisfaction with facial appearance, and appraisal of lines: marionette. Safety was assessed throughout.

Results

A total of 83 participants completed the study; 69.9% of participants had ≥ 1‐point change in AMLS at M1. Investigator and participant GAIS showed improvement. Both FACE‐Q scores significantly improved from baseline (p < 0.0001). A significant volume improvement was seen and maximized at M1. Most participant‐reported injection site reactions were mild or moderate and resolved within 8 days; 14 subjects reported adverse device effects, with the most common being pain, which resolved within 8 days.

Conclusion

This prospective, open‐label study showed that VYC‐17.5 L effectively improved marionette lines and was well tolerated.
Livin’ La Vida Sola: Network Diversity and Well‐Being in Middle‐Aged Adults Living Alone
Authors: Kersten Philipp , Mund Marcus , Neyer Franz J.
Published: November 2024

Background

For individuals living alone, having a diverse personal network is considered crucial for mitigating the risk of social isolation and enhancing well‐being. Although a reciprocal dynamic between network diversity and well‐being is likely, longitudinal evidence supporting reciprocal effects is limited. This study investigates dynamic transactions between network diversity and well‐being (life satisfaction, loneliness, and depressiveness) in a community‐based sample of middle‐aged adults from Germany. It also explores moderations by the duration of living alone.

Method

Data were drawn from the three‐wave RIKSCHA (Risks and Chances of Living Alone) project, which includes N = 389 middle‐aged adults living alone.

Results

Cross‐lagged panel models revealed high rank‐order stabilities and correlated changes in network diversity and well‐being. Random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel models and dynamic panel models indicated that unobserved traits accounted for these high stabilities. Correlated changes disappeared when accounting for the trait‐like stability of variables. Across all models, no evidence of reciprocal associations between network diversity and well‐being was found. All results remained consistent regardless of the duration of living alone.

Conclusions

The study discusses trait factors accounting for the high stabilities observed in network diversity and well‐being among middle‐aged adults living alone. Future research should further explore the traits impacting successful adaptation to living alone within the context of personal networks.
Mucoadhesion and Mucins in Oral Processing: Their Role in Food Interaction, Texture, and Sensory Perception
Authors: Velopoulos Ioannis , Dimopoulou Maria , Chen Jianshe , Ritzoulis Christos
Published: November 2024

This is a review of mucus, and its principal component, mucins, in oral processing; it examines oral processing from the viewpoint of mucins being integral functional constituents of the food after the latter's insertion into the mouth. Under this light, mucins are treated as an omni‐present functional ingredient. The chemical physics of the bolus formation is examined, focused on the role of mucins in the process. The colloidal and rheological aspects of hydrocolloids–mucin systems are subsequently examined, highlighting the role of the oral glycoproteins in complex food models and complex foods. Following the physicochemical and mechanical description of the topic, mucus is examined as a determinant of a food's sensory attributes. Its role in oral sensations such as astringency is reviewed, with a special focus on phenol–mucin interactions. The effect of mucus on the perception of saltiness is then reviewed, and the ensuing strategies for structurally‐based reduction of salt are considered. The review critically discusses the challenges and opportunities that emerge from the above, highlighting the role of mucins and their effect on food function.
A Retrospective Radiologic Analysis of the Treatment Outcomes of Ameloblastomas
Authors: Smit Chané , Robinson Liam , Fonseca Felipe P. , van Heerden Willie F. P. , Uys André
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The current study reviewed the postoperative radiologic findings of 156 cases of ameloblastoma diagnosed at a tertiary institution in South Africa.

Methods

Histologically diagnosed cases of ameloblastomas between 2012 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Only cases with both pre‐ and postoperative radiographs of diagnostic quality were included in the study. The demographics, treatment and follow‐up radiologic findings, including recurrences, were assessed. This clinical data was collected from all available patient records and histopathologic reports.

Results

Seventy‐nine cases of ameloblastoma (50.97%) diagnosed at the institution had post‐treatment radiographs available and were included in the study for further analysis. Conservative treatment, including marsupialisation and/or enucleation, was performed in 11 cases (13.92%). The recurrence rate for conservatively treated cases was 44.4% after a mean follow‐up of 31.4 months. Tumour resection was performed in 72 cases (91.1%), including 4 recurrent cases previously treated conservatively. Tumour recurrence was only noted in 4 cases (7.5%) treated via surgical resection after a mean follow‐up of 25 months. Spontaneous bone regeneration was seen in 19 cases (35.8%) of ameloblastomas treated via surgical resection.

Conclusion

Ameloblastomas are benign neoplasms with high recurrence rates, emphasising the need for appropriate treatment and extended follow‐up periods. The high recurrence rate reported in cases of ameloblastoma managed conservatively highlighted its inappropriate use in treating conventional subtypes. The presence of bony regeneration in this study was higher than the reported literature, correlating with the overall younger age of the current sample.
Manipulation Cases in Free Will and Moral Responsibility, Part 1: Cases and Arguments
Authors: De Marco Gabriel , Cyr Taylor W.
Published: November 2024

A common style of argument in the literature on free will and moral responsibility is the Manipulation Argument. These tend to begin with a case of an agent in a deterministic universe who is manipulated, say, via brain surgery, into performing some action. Intuitively, this agent is not responsible for that action. Yet, since there is no relevant difference, with respect to whether an agent is responsible, between the manipulated agent and a typical agent in a deterministic universe, responsibility is not compatible with the truth of determinism. This paper introduces some key types of manipulation cases, the schema for a manipulation argument against compatibilism, the hard‐line/soft‐line categories of responses to manipulation arguments, and various issues that have become important in discussions of manipulation cases and arguments.
Stability of Standing Periodic Waves in the Massive Thirring Model
Authors: Cui Shikun , Pelinovsky Dmitry E.
Published: November 2024

We analyze the spectral stability of the standing periodic waves in the massive Thirring model in laboratory coordinates. Since solutions of the linearized MTM equation are related to the squared eigenfunctions of the linear Lax system, the spectral stability of the standing periodic waves can be studied by using their Lax spectrum. We show analytically that each family of standing periodic waves is distinguished by the location of eight eigenvalues which coincide with the end points of the spectral bands of the Lax spectrum. The standing periodic waves are proven to be spectrally stable if the eight eigenvalues are located either on the imaginary axis or along the diagonals of the complex plane. By computing the Lax spectrum numerically, we show that this stability criterion is satisfied for some standing periodic waves.
Dynamics of a Memory‐Based Diffusion Model With Maturation Delay and Spatial Heterogeneity
Authors: Bu Xiaohong , Zhang Guohong , Song Yongli , Wang Xiaoli
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we consider a single memory‐based diffusion population model with maturation delay, spatial heterogeneity, and Neumann boundary condition. When the integral of the intrinsic growth rate over the domain is nonnegative, we obtain sufficient conditions for the local stability of the positive steady state and the critical values of maturation delay for the associated Hopf bifurcation. When the integral of the intrinsic growth rate over the domain is negative, considering that the characteristic equation involves a non‐self‐adjoint operator and two delays, we utilize a geometric method to determine all bifurcation points in terms of memory and maturation delays. The impact of spatial heterogeneity on the distribution of solutions is also examined via numerical simulations. It is found that the core area of high population density is coincident with the source area of growth rate. This suggests the importance of spatial heterogeneity in shaping the distribution and dynamics of the species.
Evaluating the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of integrating mass drug administration for helminth control with seasonal malaria chemoprevention in Ghanaian children: Protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Afolabi Muhammed O. , Adu‐Gyasi Dennis , Paintain Lucy , Tawiah Theresa , Ali Mohammed Sanni , Greenwood Brian , Asante Kwaku Poku
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of integrating seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) with mass drug administration for helminth control among school‐aged children living in communities where the burden of malaria and helminths is high in Ghana, West Africa.

Methods

This cluster randomised controlled trial will enrol 1200 children aged 5–10 years. Eligible children randomised to intervention clusters will receive SMC drugs (sulphadoxine‐pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine) and anthelminthic drugs for soil‐transmitted helminths—(albendazole), and for schistosomiasis (praziquantel), while children randomised to control clusters will receive SMC drugs alone. Pre‐ and post‐intervention blood, urine and stool samples will be collected from children in both clusters. The effectiveness of the concomitant delivery will be determined by checking whether the combination of SMC and anthelminthic drugs prevents anaemia in the children randomised to the intervention clusters compared to the children in the control clusters. Cost analysis and cost‐effectiveness of this integrated delivery approach will be determined by estimating the incremental costs and effects of co‐administration of SMC drugs with mass drug administration of anthelminthic drugs compared to SMC alone, including cost savings due to cases of moderate and severe anaemia averted.

Expected findings

The findings of this study will provide evidence to inform public health recommendations for an integrated control of malaria and helminths among children living in the poorest countries of the world.
Anti‐fibrotic effects of lisinopril (ACE inhibitor) and fasudil (ROCK inhibitor) in combination for canine corneal fibrosis in vitro
Authors: Routh Brayden L. , Tripathi Ratnakar , Giuliano Elizabeth , Lujin Payton , Sinha Prashant R. , Mohan Rajiv R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Corneal fibrosis is a leading cause of blindness in mammalian species and may result in compromised performance in sports and daily functions. This study evaluated the safety and anti‐fibrotic effects of the FDA‐approved drugs, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE‐I) lisinopril and rho‐kinase inhibitor (ROCK‐I) fasudil, alone and in combination, on the canine cornea using an established in vitro model.

Methods

To test the safety and efficacy of lisinopril and fasudil, primary canine corneal fibroblasts (CCFs) generated from donor corneas of healthy dogs (n = 20) were used. A series of dose‐dependent and time‐dependent assays with lisinopril (1–50 μM) and fasudil (1–10 nM) were performed. qRT‐PCR, immunofluorescence (IF) staining, cell viability assay, cell proliferation assay, LIVE/DEAD viability/cytotoxicity assay, TUNEL assay, and total cell count were performed.

Results

A 25‐μM lisinopril and 3‐nM fasudil dose were safe, nontoxic, and optimal for therapeutic evaluations in vitro. Treatments of lisinopril or fasudil, alone or in‐combination, to CCFs grown in the presence of TGF‐β1 (5 ng/mL) showed inhibition of myofibroblast formation based on phase‐contrast microscopy. The qRT‐PCR and IF studies showed a significant decrease in expression of profibrotic markers, including α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA; p < .0001), fibronectin (FN; p = .0002), tenascin C (TNC; p < .0001), Collagen I (Col‐I; p < .0001), Collagen IIIA1 (Co‐IIIA1; p < .0001), and Collagen IV (Co‐lV; p < .0001).

Conclusion

An ophthalmic formulation consisting of lisinopril and fasudil may offer a safe and effective method to treat canine corneal fibrosis. Additional studies evaluating safety and efficacy of this formulation in vivo are warranted.
Tempo and mode of diversification of the red devil spiders (Araneae: Dysderidae) of the Canary Islands
Authors: Bellvert Adrià , Pollock Laura J. , Kaliontzopoulou Antigoni , Arnedo Miquel A.
Published: November 2024

The study of adaptive radiations has shed light on our current understanding of evolution. However, previous studies examining the mode in which species diversified, how diversification rates varied, and how ecological specialisation affected these processes have found few different results across different taxa and geographic and ecological systems, showing how complex this process is. To gain a more complete picture of how species evolve, additional model systems that encompass alternative ecological requirements are needed. Here, we present the results of a study aimed at unravelling the diversification mode and evolutionary drivers of the spider genus Dysdera, the red devil spiders, endemic to the Canary Islands. These species exhibit remarkable phenotypic variability in their mouthparts, which has been related to different levels of specialisation in the predation of isopods. We explored patterns of lineage diversification and assessed the role of trophic specialisation as a driver of species diversification. Additionally, we used climatic variables, occurrence data and morphological information to unravel the underlying mode of speciation by means of joint species distribution models and age‐range correlation methods. Our results reveal that red devil spiders underwent an early burst of diversification, followed by a slowdown of diversification rates, which is a hallmark of adaptive radiation. We also found evidence that the trophic morphology shaped diversification, with specialist species exhibiting higher rates of diversification. Finally, our analyses suggest that speciation occurred mostly in allopatry, with subsequent secondary sympatry following range expansion.
Electric Circuit Analogs of First-Order Dual-Phase-Lag Diffusion
Authors: Antaki Paul J.
Published: November 2024

The dual-phase-lag (DPL) model of nonclassical diffusion plays an expanding role for applications involving transient heat, mass, and momentum transfer. To open a new realm of applications for the model, the work reported here introduces RLC-type (resistor–inductor–capacitor) and RCC-type (resistor–capacitor–capacitor) electric circuits that behave as discrete analogs of first-order, continuum DPL diffusion. Importantly, the phase lags are two time-scales representing departures from classical diffusion that define the wave-like and over-diffusive regimes of DPL behavior. Expressions for these phase lags arise while deriving the difference–differential equations that govern the circuits. Furthermore, simulations exhibit DPL behavior for simple, one-dimensional ladder circuits subjected to step increases in boundary voltages. In particular, the subsequent voltage disturbances in the circuits propagate faster in the over-diffusive regime than in the wave-like regime. The simulations also show that DPL behavior stems from transient divisions of current between RL components in the wave-like circuit and between RC components in the over-diffusive circuit. Consequently, adopting the DPL perspective in the design of electronic systems may inspire novel applications that take advantage of DPL behavior. Finally, the circuits introduced here may lead to the study of DPL diffusion in analogous scenarios of heat, mass, and momentum transfer that are difficult to access experimentally.
Distributed Fault Tolerant Control of Multi-Agent System Based on LSTM Trajectory Prediction Model Under Intermittent Communication Faults
Authors: Wang Yingying , Qi Ruiyun , Jiang Bin
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a novel trajectory prediction based fault-tolerant control method for multi-agent systems under intermittent communication faults. Agents affected by intermittent communication faults are unable to communicate with neighbors or obtain reference tracking information for a period of time. To address this issue, we first employ a trajectory prediction model trained using long short term memory neural network to predict the expected trajectory in the event of intermittent communication faults. Subsequently, a distributed controller based on fixed-time theory is designed to track the predicted values. Compared with the existing fault-tolerant control methods, the proposed strategy achieves smaller consensus errors and a longer tolerable intermittent inter-ruption interval. Moreover, it demonstrates the capability to predict the actual expected trajectory trends of agents during large-angle maneuvers. Finally, the effectiveness of the fault-tolerant control strategy is verified by simulation.