bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of In-Row Spacing on Yield, Tuber Size Profiles, Bruise Damage, and Crop Values for Cultivars Alturas, Clearwater Russet and Ranger Russet in the Columbia Basin
Authors: Blauer Jacob Michael , Mattinson Dennis Scott
Published: October 2024

Variety selection and cultural management practices are the most common considerations for improved profitability in potato production systems. Planting density investigations have led to both within and between-row spacing recommendations to maximize profitability for commonly grown potato cultivars. Planting density can significantly alter tuber set, tuber size distribution, yield and profitability depending on end-use of the crop. However, rarely have such investigations included an assessment of the residual effects of changes in tuber size distribution on tuber bruising (blackspot and shatter bruise) and associated financial returns. The physics of impact injury suggests that larger tubers are more prone to tuber bruising than smaller tubers when dropped from a similar height. In this study we varied the in-row spacing of seed to investigate the extent to which the associated changes in tuber size distribution affect tuber bruising and crop values. The results demonstrated that: (1) the extent of tuber bruising was directly correlated with total marketable yield as altered by in-row spacing; (2) marketable yields decreased as in-row spacing increased; (3) while the absolute yield (MT ha−1) of bruised tubers increased with closer in-row spacing, the spacing-induced shifts in tuber size distribution had no effect on the percentage of bruised tubers as a proportion of total yield; (4) larger tubers were more prone to bruising; and (5) closer in-row spacing significantly improved financial returns for both processing and seed contracts despite the increase in bruise yield.
Quality management of head and neck patient treatments using statistical process control techniques
Authors: Sandford Michael J. , Steel Jared G. , Goodworth Josie R. , Lodge Patrick J.
Published: October 2024

The treatment, planning, simulation, and setup of radiotherapy patients contain many processes subject to errors involving both staff and equipment. Cone-beam-CT (CBCT) provides a final check of patient positioning and corrections based on this can be made prior to treatment delivery. Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques are used in various industries for quality management and error mitigation. The utility of SPC techniques to monitor process and equipment changes in our Head and Neck patient treatments was assessed by application to CBCT results from a quality-focused longitudinal study. Individuals and moving range (XmR) as well as exponentially-weighted moving average (EWMA) techniques were explored. The SPC techniques were sensitive to process changes and trends over the 12 years of data collected. A reduction in the random component of patient setup errors needing correction was observed. Systematic components of error remained more stable. An uptick in both datasets was observed correlating with the COVID-19 pandemic. Process control limits for use in prospective process monitoring were established. Challenges that arose from using SPC techniques in a retrospective study are outlined.
Integration of Geological Model and Numerical Simulation Technique to Characterize the Remaining Oil of Fractured Biogenic Limestone Reservoirs
Authors: Yu Xingchen , Kang Zhihong , Li Yunpeng , Lin Xuechun , Xie Lei , Li Jiaqi
Published: October 2024

Fine geological modeling leads to accurate reservoirs numerical simulations. Fractured biogenic limestone has abundant storage spaces and flow paths to accumulate oil and gas. The complexity and diversity of fractured biogenic limestone also lead to challenges in accurately characterizing its pore volume and remaining oil. This investigation aimed to enhance the understanding of fractured biotite reservoir properties via geological modeling. Numerical simulations were used to characterize the remaining oil during the late stage of field development. Considering the differences in porosity and permeability between fractures and matrix, a facies-controlled stochastic modeling technique was used to establish a dual-porosity and dual-permeability (DPDP) model for numerical simulation. Core information, logging data, and multiple seismic attributes were combined to guide low-level sequence fault interpretation for tectonic refinement. Based on classified seismic inversion, sedimentary phases were reconstructed. A discrete fracture network (DFN) model was obtained based on fracture occurrences and density models. The optimized discrete adjoint (ODA) algorithm was utilized to calibrate model parameters. The findings revealed that dense tectonic fractures develop in thick biogenic limestone areas. Combined with advanced reservoir simulation technology, these findings suggest that areas of thicker biogenic limestone were consistent with areas of higher fracture matrix conductivity multipliers. The remaining oil distribution patterns were investigated, and to deploy new wells was guided. Therefore, it is essential to better understand the tectonic characteristics of fractured biogenic limestone reservoirs and their remaining oil distribution patterns by integrating multiple sources of information and mastering advanced reservoir simulation technology for oilfield development.
25 years of experience on the management of enterococcal infective endocarditis an observational study
Authors: Schubert Lorenz , Chen Rui-Yang , Weiss-Tessbach Matthias , Kriz Richard , Obermüller Markus , Jackwerth Matthias , Barousch Wolfgang , Burgmann Heinz , Kussmann Manuel , Traby Ludwig
Published: October 2024

Purpose

As they are effective and well tolerated, aminopenicillins are still the cornerstone for the treatment of enterococcal infections. Current treatment guidelines for infective endocarditis (IE) recommend combination treatments, which carry a higher risk of adverse effects and are based on limited in vitro and experimental data. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the treatments of enterococcal IE in real-life practice.

Methods

A total of 4121 episodes of enterococcal bloodstream infections, occurring between 1994 and 2019, were screened for the evidence of IE. Baseline characteristics, risk factors for complicated infections and treatment information were assessed and analyzed using Cox regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 80 (3.9%) IE episodes were identified of which 78 were included in the final analysis. Treatment regimens in our cohort comprised aminopenicillin-monotherapy (n = 20), teicoplanin-monotherapy (n = 26), other monotherapies (OMT) (n = 8), as well as combinations of ampicillin plus daptomycin (n = 8), ampicillin plus gentamicin (n = 4) or other combinations (n = 9). Overall mortality at 28-days was low (9 of 75) and increased to (19 of 75) after 6-months. Frequency of moderate to severe valve regurgitation (p = 0.89), or signs of uncontrolled infection (p = 0.5) and vegetation size ≥ 10 mm (p = 0.11) were similar in the treatment groups. None of the treatment groups was associated with increased hazard for IE-related mortality.

Conclusions

This retrospective study complements previous evidence, demonstrating that monotherapy regimens may be a suitable and effective option for the treatment of IE and supports the need for a prospective evaluation of aminopenicillin-monotherapy for initial and subsequent therapy in these patients.
Therapiestrategien von repetitiven Vokalisationen bei Demenz
Authors: Taubenheim Samuel , Quante Arnim
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Vokalisationen bei Demenzerkrankten sind sich wiederholende, verbale Äußerungen, die aufgrund ihrer Lautstärke, Häufigkeit und/oder sozialer Unangemessenheit zu negativen Auswirkungen auf Erkrankte und weitere anwesende Individuen führen. Die Prävalenz liegt bei bis zu 30 %. Aufgrund einer stark zunehmenden Inzidenz weltweiter Demenzerkrankungen und einer geringen Anzahl randomisierter kontrollierter Studien hinsichtlich der Behandlung repetitiver Vokalisationen, soll dieses systematische Review eine Zusammenfassung existierender Arbeiten über die Effektivität möglicher pharmakotherapeutischer und nicht pharmakologischer Therapien geben.

Methoden

Das systematische Review basiert auf den PRISMA-Richtlinien und die Anmeldung erfolgte auf der Registrierungsseite PROSPERO (Registriernummer: CRD42023486344). Die Literaturrecherche fand in den Datenbanken PubMed und Embase statt. Aufgrund einer mangelnden Datenlage wurden ebenfalls Fallberichte eingeschlossen.

Ergebnisse

Von 2635 relevanten Artikeln wurden 25 Arbeiten in das Review inkludiert. Es konnte für SSRI, Pregabalin, Gabapentin und für die Antipsychotika Haloperidol und Risperidon anhand von wenigen Fallberichten eine Wirksamkeit belegt werden, die allerdings mit Nebenwirkungen behaftet war. Nicht pharmakologische Interventionen zeigten sich ebenfalls wirksam.

Schlussfolgerung

Medikamentöse und nichtmedikamentöse Interventionen sind wirksame Behandlungsansätze hinsichtlich repetitiver Vokalisationen bei Demenzerkrankten. Aufgrund der Tatsache, dass kaum randomisiert-kontrollierte Studien vorliegen, müssen die Ergebnisse dieses systematischen Reviews mit Vorsicht interpretiert werden. Die Ergebnisse dieses Reviews zeigen, dass bei vielen Interventionen randomisiert-kontrollierte Studien zu fordern sind.
Collaborative Preclinical/Clinical Efforts Aimed at Strengthening a Neurology Residency Program: Challenges, Activities and Outcomes
Authors: Nolan Michael F. , McNamara John P.
Published: October 2024

Recent trends in medical education have included efforts to better integrate traditionally preclinical content with subject matter included in the clinical years of the curriculum. The participation of clinical faculty in preclinical courses is well established; however, involvement of biomedical science faculty in resident education is less common. We describe here a project in which a basic science faculty member participated in a neurology residency program to address specific basic science knowledge weaknesses identified by the neurology department chair. We address issues and challenges associated with planning and implementation. Benefits to both the residents and the biomedical scientist are described.
Impacts of international trade on the SMT view of the economy
Authors: Oka Tosihiro
Published: October 2024

Shiozawa, Morioka and Taniguchi (2019)’s Microfoundations for Evolutionary Economics (Springer Japan) provided an alternative view (SMT view) of the economy to the orthodox equilibrium view of the economy. According to the SMT view, demand and supply are matched by quantity adjustment under fixed prices, and prices function as a transmitter of cost information downstream as well as a guide for choice and development of techniques. This paper examines the impacts of international trade on the SMT view based on the new theory of international values (NTIV). In a closed economy, prices are uniquely determined even if there are many choices of techniques by the minimal price theorem. With international trade, due to the multiplicity of wages, prices are not uniquely determined. Whether this fact allows demand to participate in the determination of prices is examined, and it is clarified that because of the disparity of real production possibility set from the hypothetical one, which is effective in determining prices, demand loses the power of equilibration. This fact opens up the possibility and even necessity of production taking place below the maximal boundary, which is accompanied by unemployment. Individual firms’ behavior in the choice and development of techniques and the process of price conversion that are consistent with the SMT view and the NTIV is formulated. A residual unsolved question of wage adjustment following technological changes is identified.
Luminance-based methodology for assessment of low level haze in glazing
Authors: Luna-Navarro Alessandra , Brembilla Eleonora , de la Barra Pedro , Moreau Louis , Overend Mauro
Published: October 2024

Visual defects, in particular haze, in glass and façade technologies can significantly impact the aesthetic quality and human experience of daylight and views in buildings. The glass and façade industry increasingly requires methods that can objectively predict and measure the subjective user experience of haze. This is required to appropriately inform the manufacturing process, ensuring optimal functionality and performance, and avoiding material waste and economic losses due to the replacement of defective glazing. Existing methods for measuring haze are not appropriate for assessing large samples, either at manufacturing sites or in-situ. However, haze defects are often only exhibited and visible when glazing is produced in large samples or installed under real luminous conditions. This paper introduces a novel luminance-based method that measures haze by evaluating the halo around a light source that is observed through the glazing. This method is initially tested in a controlled laboratory setting on small glazing samples with varying level of haze. The halo serves as a proxy for haze severity and it is quantified by using luminance-based measurements. In this work, the newly-proposed method is verified by comparing the ranking in haze severity of different samples as performed by means of a standard haze meter and the newly proposed method. Additionally, the paper examines the dependence of this ranking on factors such as camera setup distance and light intensity. It was found that the proposed method was able to effectively ranks samples differing in haze intensity by more than 0.1 orders of magnitude. Positioning the camera closer to the glazing and using higher light intensity yielded more accurate results. However, for haze levels below 1% and differences smaller than 0.1 orders of magnitude, the accuracy is insufficient. To define the expected level of accuracy of methods for haze characterisation in-situ, the sensitivity of the human eye to haze under varying luminous environments and view content needs to be quantified.
A q-theorem of Pólya using Hurwitz partial fraction method
Authors: Annaby M. H. , Elsayed-Abdullah S. R.
Published: October 2024

We establish a q-counterpart of the method of partial fraction developed by Hurwitz-Pólya to investigate the zeros of q-cosine and q-sine transforms, where $$q \in (0,1)$$

q
∈
(
0
,
1
)

is a fixed number. We prove reality and simplicity of the zeros and give a precise description of their distribution. The conditions imposed on both q and the integrand are less restrictive than previously assumed in the literature. A direct infinite partial fraction expansion is obtained via q-sampling theory.
The mercurial rise in research of halide perovskites: what´s next
Authors: Khan Mohd Taukeer , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: October 2024

Perovskites are of high potential in the ongoing academic research, due to their distinctive electrical properties and crystalline structures. Halide perovskites show high light emissive properties and panchromatic light absorption across the visible spectrum. The exceptional electrical characteristics, such as their long carrier lifespan, high diffusion length, and charge carrier mobility, allow the electric charges to be transported and collected effectively. Furthermore, by tuning the cations and anions composition, perovskite’s opto-electrical properties can be altered. Moreover, dimension reduction affects their band gap and intrinsic features to induce higher structural stability but at the cost of the quantum confinement effect. Owing to their exceptional properties, halide perovskites are being researched in energy-related and semiconducting applications, hold high promise and the future looks bright. But challenges remain, and the larger question is what needs to be done to make them more stable.
A narrative review on vital criteria of fungal dyes as dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC)
Authors: Pirdaus Nur Alfarina , Ahmad Nurfadzilah , Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus , Wan-Mohtar Wan Abd Al Qadr Imad
Published: October 2024

The main two reasons for the shift to renewable energy are the depletion and the harmful effects of non-renewable energy, such as burning coal and fossil fuels. As a result, the use of solar cells as renewable energy resources, that prioritise high efficiency while lowering production costs, can provide a promising future for sustaining energy resources. Solar cells have been developed starting with the monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells (first generation), non-crystalline and thin film solar cells (second generation) and organic solar cells (third generation). The dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is a new type of solar cell that has gained popularity due to its ability to convert energy at a low cost, ease of fabrication, and non-toxic nature. This paper explores the use of fungal colours as natural dyes for DSSC due to their wide range of colours, large yields, sustainable supply and non-toxic. Natural fungal colours can be extracted using proper extraction conditions and methods. Although fungal dyes have several limitations like instability, non-resistance to harsh conditions, colour loss during processing or storage and limited profitable yield, they still have promising future prospects to overcome the poor interaction of natural sensitizer with semiconductor together with other advantages of fungal colour. DSSC with dye from crude extracts from Cortinarius fungi exhibited the highest efficiency of 0.64% among reported DSSC with fungal dye.
Cytosine Methylation and Demethylation Model: Equilibrium Point and the Influence of Enzymes on Cytosine Forms Levels
Authors: Fujarewicz Krzysztof , Kurasz Karolina
Published: October 2024

Epigenetic changes, apart from changes in the DNA sequence, are one of the most important factors determining the fate of cells in living organisms. The main epigenetic change is cytosine methylation in relevant regions of DNA. Recently, we published an article in which we proposed a mathematical model of cytosine methylation and demethylation. In present work, we present an equilibrium analysis of this model. We present the conditions for its stability and aperiodic nature of the system’s free response. In particular, we focus on the influence of the levels of enzymes involved in cytosine methylation and demethylation on the equilibrium coordinates. The conclusions from this analysis are important in understanding the biological basis of the behavior of cells in living organisms.
Genetic overlap between idiopathic scoliosis and schizophrenia in the general population
Authors: de Reuver Steven , Engchuan Worrawat , Safarian Nickie , Zarrei Mehdi , Vorstman Jacob A. S. , Castelein René M. , Breetvelt Elemi J.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and schizophrenia (SCZ) are two distinct conditions with poorly understood aetiologies that both emerge in otherwise healthy young adolescents. One rare genetic condition associated with both phenotypic outcomes is the 22q11.2 deletion (22q11DS). This microdeletion, encompassing 47 genes, occurs in approximately 1 in 2,148 live births and confers a 20-fold higher risk for both AIS and schizophrenia compared to the general population. In the general population (non-22q11DS carriers), AIS and SCZ have also been reported to be related and genetic studies suggest the involvement of genetic variants implicated in the central nervous functioning. In this study, our objective was to further investigate genetic overlaps between these conditions in the general population. Specifically, we aimed to explore the role of genes within the 22q11.2 region, not only in terms of common variants but also their potential impact on gene networks and biopathways.

Methods

We used summary statistics from three genome-wide association studies (GWAS): two focused on AIS (n = 11,210), and one on schizophrenia (n = 36,989). To explore potential overlaps between the two conditions, we conducted a comparative analysis on the significance-based ranked single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with both AIS and SCZ. Next, we employed in silico analyses to assess gene-networks enrichment for the most significant SNPs and investigate the contribution of genes within the 22q11.2 region. Post-hoc analysis was conducted to explore the biological pathways correlated with SNPs significantly associated with both AIS and SCZ.

Results

The in silico analyses revealed a significant (adjusted-p < 0.05) genetic overlap between SCZ and both AIS cohorts. The top 3% of the most significant SNPs associated with both conditions exhibited a distinct enrichment cluster which is unlikely to be a result of chance (p < 3e-04). The gene-networks analyses showed a significant overlap of 26–41% with the ones involving genes in the 22q11DS region. However, there was no overlap between SNPs in this region and the most significant SNPs identified in the GWAS.

Conclusion

This study revealed compelling evidence that beyond the shared association with 22q11DS as a rare genetic variant, AIS and SCZ exhibit common genetic risk variants and an overlap of important genes. The gene networks enriched by the most significant SNPs for both conditions also intersect with the ones involving genes in the 22q11DS region. However, SNPs within this region were not overrepresented among the most significant SNPs from GWAS for both conditions. Notably, gene networks linked to the risk for both conditions suggest an involvement of biopathways related to cellular signaling and neuronal development.
Quantifying global warming potential variations from greenhouse gas emission sources in forest ecosystems
Authors: Rabbi Mohammad Fazle , Kovács Sándor
Published: October 2024

Forest ecosystems play a crucial role in regulating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and mitigating climate change. This research aimed to evaluate the GHG emissions of various sources within forested ecosystems and assess their respective contributions to global warming potential (GWP), vital for developing more targeted strategies to mitigate climate change, shaping climate policies, carbon accounting, sustainable forest management, and advancing scientific comprehension of ecosystem-climate dynamics. The study comprehensively analysed carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions EDGAR data of deforestation, fires, and natural processes such as organic soil decomposition within forested ecosystems. The assessment quantified the CO2 equivalent emissions for each category from 1990 to 2022 and forecasted till 2030. Our forecast shows that CO2 emissions from deforestation could reach between 3,990 and 4,529 metric ton (Mt) by 2030, with forest fires contributing an additional 750 Mt. Forestland CO2 absorption is expected to decline to -5134.80 Mt by 2030. There is uncertainty surrounding the forecasts for Organic soil CO2 (829.78 Mt) and Other land CO2 (-764.53 Mt). In addition, deforestation was a significant contributor to CO2 emissions, with a GWP ranging from 4000 to 4500, highlighting the complex interplay between natural processes and human activities in shaping atmospheric warming patterns. Additionally, forest fires emit a complex mix of GHGs. The potency of these gases in warming the planet varies considerably, with CH4 exhibiting a GWP range of 500 to 700 Mt CO2 equivalent, and CO2 ranging from 900 and 1350 Mt. These variations depend on fire intensity and its overall impact on the climate system. Forestland acts as powerful carbon sink, capturing atmospheric CO2 with negative GWP values between -7000 and -6000. Researchers suggest a multifaceted strategy such as stricter enforcement of sustainable forestry regulations, investing in projects that promote carbon sequestration, and reforestation. Additionally, advancements in drone technology, satellite imagery, remote sensing and advanced data analytics can aid in detecting and mitigating climate change impacts, ultimately paving the way for carbon neutrality.

Graphical Abstract
Buyer Valuation of Angus Bull Attributes in Wisconsin
Authors: Joseph Kishore , Sanders Dwight R. , Nair Jayakrishnan , Prill-Adams Alicia L.
Published: October 2024

Hedonic analysis of Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association Bull Sale and Development Program data revealed buyer preferences for calving ease, growth, production weight, and carcass merit traits. Attributes like calving ease direct Expected Progeny Differences (EPD), average daily gain, birth to yearling gain EPD, and rib-eye area consistently ranked higher and significantly influenced the bull’s sale price. Further analysis using a 2-Class Finite Mixture Model indicated distinct groups of buyers in the region who prioritized measured bull attributes and others who did not, confirming heterogeneity in buyer preferences.
Who says what to whom through what channel? Formative communication research on antibiotic resistance messaging for urgent care patients
Authors: Wade Rachel B. , Turner Monique M. , Hamdy Rana F. , Jang Youjin , Heo Ruth J. , Liu Cindy M.
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To explore the source, message, channel, and receiver effects on patient concern for antibiotic resistance, willingness to reduce antibiotic use, and expectations for an antibiotic prescription in a prepandemic sample.

Methods:

We used data reported from a national cross-sectional survey of adults who had visited an urgent care center within the last year. Data were collected from April 4 to April 9, 2017. The survey included an embedded experimental design to test changing effects before versus after message exposure.

Participants:

A national sample of adult participants (n = 610) who had used urgent care at least once in the past year were recruited through GfK’s KnowledgePanelTM. KnowledgePanel survey response rates are typically about 65%. Respondents ranged in age from 18 to 85 and were more likely to be female (377/610; 62%), White (408/610; 67%), and covered by private insurance (414/610; 68%).

Results:

Outcome variables were measured on 4-point scales 1–4 scale, and t-tests were conducted for measures that were collected pre and postmessaging. The majority of participants trusted their doctor and desired them as the source for information regarding antibiotic resistance, followed by field experts (eg, CDC). Direct messaging (eg, email) and targeted advertisements were least preferred.

Conclusions:

This study provides foundational data on patient communication preferences in terms of source, message content, and channel when receiving information on antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, as well as how these factors affect patient concern, willingness, and expectations. Follow-up work is needed to replicate these findings in a postpandemic sample.
Advance Consent for Participation in Acute Stroke Trials: A Focus Group Study with People with Lived Experience of Stroke
Authors: Udoh Ubong , Seeger Rena , Cummings Emma , Dewar Brian , Nicholls Stuart , Fedyk Mark , Gocan Sophia , Shepherd Victoria , Dowlatshahi Dar , Shamy Michel
Published: October 2024

Advance consent could address many of the limitations traditional consenting methods pose to participation in acute stroke trials. We conducted a series of five focus groups with people with lived experience of stroke. Using an inductive thematic approach, two themes were developed: factors in favour of, and against, advance consent. Participants supported the idea of advance consent and highlighted trust, transparent communication and sufficient time as major factors that would positively affect their decision to provide advance consent. The results will be used to finalise a model of advance consent suitable for testing the feasibility in stroke prevention clinics.
Overview of ACTIV trial-specific lessons learned
Authors: Draghia-Akli Ruxandra , Read Sarah W. , Hughes Eric A.
Published: October 2024

Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) was an extraordinary example of a public-private partnership (PPP) that brought together over thirty organizations and hundreds of individuals to address one of the most pressing global health needs in recent decades. In particular, ACTIV provided a key avenue for testing numerous therapeutics for their potential benefit in treating the SARS-CoV-2 virus or the resulting symptoms of acute COVID-19 infection. Given the speed and scale at which ACTIV designed and implemented master protocols across global networks that it was simultaneously working to create, the PPP can provide valuable lessons for best practices and avoiding pitfalls the next time the world is faced with a global pandemic of a novel pathogen. This report provides a general overview of the ACTIV partnership to set the stage and context for the subsequent articles in this issue that will relay these lessons learned.
ACTIV trials: Lessons learned in trial design in the setting of an emergent pandemic
Authors: Keshtkar-Jahromi Maryam , Anstrom Kevin J. , Barkauskas Christina , Brown Samuel M. , Daar Eric S. , Fischer William , Gibbs Kevin W. , Higgs Elizabeth S. , Hughes Michael D. , Jagannathan Prasanna , LaVange Lisa , Lindsell Christopher J. , Nayak Seema U. , Paredes Roger , Parmar Mahesh , Peltan Ithan D. , Proschan Michael , Shotwell Matthew S. , Vock David M. , Yokum Tammy , Adam Stacey J.
Published: October 2024

Accelerating COVID-19 Treatment Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) was initiated by the US government to rapidly develop and test vaccines and therapeutics against COVID-19 in 2020. The ACTIV Therapeutics-Clinical Working Group selected ACTIV trial teams and clinical networks to expeditiously develop and launch master protocols based on therapeutic targets and patient populations. The suite of clinical trials was designed to collectively inform therapeutic care for COVID-19 outpatient, inpatient, and intensive care populations globally. In this report, we highlight challenges, strategies, and solutions around clinical protocol development and regulatory approval to document our experience and propose plans for future similar healthcare emergencies.
The statistical design and analysis of pandemic platform trials: Implications for the future
Authors: Lindsell Christopher J. , Shotwell Matthew , Anstrom Kevin J. , Berry Scott , Brittain Erica , Harrell Frank E. , Geller Nancy , Grund Birgit , Hughes Michael D. , Jagannathan Prasanna , Leifer Eric , Moser Carlee B. , Price Karen L. , Proschan Michael , Stewart Thomas , Thomas Sonia , Touloumi Giota , LaVange Lisa
Published: October 2024

The Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) Cross-Trial Statistics Group gathered lessons learned from statisticians responsible for the design and analysis of the 11 ACTIV therapeutic master protocols to inform contemporary trial design as well as preparation for a future pandemic. The ACTIV master protocols were designed to rapidly assess what treatments might save lives, keep people out of the hospital, and help them feel better faster. Study teams initially worked without knowledge of the natural history of disease and thus without key information for design decisions. Moreover, the science of platform trial design was in its infancy. Here, we discuss the statistical design choices made and the adaptations forced by the changing pandemic context. Lessons around critical aspects of trial design are summarized, and recommendations are made for the organization of master protocols in the future.
AI for peace: mitigating the risks and enhancing opportunities
Authors: Giovanardi Michele
Published: October 2024

This article focuses on measuring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the peace and security agenda, taking stock of recent initiatives and progress in this area. While there is a keen awareness of the fact that AI can be weaponized to become a tool of power politics and military competition, there is comparatively less systematic attention paid to what technology can do for peace. While it is important to address risk mitigation, equal space should be given to thinking about how to harness the peace potential of AI on a large scale. This study follows a series of publications that aim to assess the impact of technological innovation on peace, also referred to as PeaceTech, Global PeaceTech, peace innovation, or digital peacebuilding. The first section provides an overview of the debate on the impact of AI on peace and conflict. The second section examines conceptual frameworks and measures of the impact of AI on peace and conflict. The third section looks at the risks to peace and conflict posed by the use of AI and possible governance measures to mitigate them. The fourth section provides examples of AI-enabled initiatives that are having a positive impact on peace, providing a compass for public and private investment. The conclusion offers policy recommendations to advance the AI for peace agenda.
How Do People Perceive Immigrants? Relating Perceptions to Numbers
Authors: Sidler Petra , Knotz Carlo , Ruedin Didier
Published: October 2024

How does the general public perceive immigrants, whom do they think of when thinking about “immigrants,” and to what extent are these perceptions related to the actual composition of immigrant populations? We use three representative online surveys in the United States, South Africa, and Switzerland (total N = 2,778) to extend existing work on the perception of immigrants in terms of geographic coverage and individual characteristics. We also relate these responses to official statistics on immigration and integration patterns. In all three countries, there are significant discrepancies between perceptions of immigrants and their real proportion in the population and characteristics. Although we observe clear country differences, there is a striking pattern of people associating “immigrants” with “asylum seekers” in all three countries. We consider two possible explanations for the differences between perceptions and facts: the representativeness heuristic and the affect heuristic. In contrast to previous research, we find only partial support for the representativeness heuristic, whereas the results are consistent with the affect heuristic. We conclude that images of “immigrants” are largely shaped by pre-existing attitudes.
Conservation status of newly discovered subpopulations of two globally threatened tree species in the East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania
Authors: Ndangalasi Henry J. , Cordeiro Norbert J.
Published: October 2024

Two globally threatened tree species, the Critically Endangered Cola porphyrantha (Malvaceae) and the Endangered Gigasiphon macrosiphon (Fabaceae) are narrowly distributed in Kenya and Tanzania. In Tanzania, both species were first located in an isolated, unprotected forest fragment in the East Usambara Mountains in the early 2000s. As no assessment of these subpopulations had been made since then, we surveyed the forest fragment as well as nearby unprotected forest fragments. In contrast to the early 2000s when only five and two mature trees of C. porphyrantha and G. macrosiphon, respectively, were located, we found 18 and five mature trees of these species. We did not find either species in intensive surveys of seven neighbouring unprotected forest fragments but we located a single G. macrosiphon beside a river close to one of the unprotected fragments. Gigasiphon macrosiphon was also previously known from two sites in Amani Nature Reserve in the East Usambara Mountains, but recent surveys, including our own, failed to relocate these subpopulations. Because of heavy anthropogenic disturbance in the one site where the two species still occur and their general absence from adjacent forest, we are working with the local community to protect the isolated fragment. Additionally, in situ planting of locally grown seedlings of both species is being supported by Amani Nature Reserve.
Discovery of a novel Mediterranean Haemaphysalis (Ornithophysalis) doenitzi group tick species infesting Falco eleonorae on Antikythira Island, Greece
Authors: Chitimia-Dobler Lidia , Barboutis Christos , Bounas Anastasios , Kassara Christina , Mans Ben J. , Saratsis Anastasios
Published: October 2024

Eleonora's falcon (Falco eleonorae Géné, 1839) is a well-known long-distance migrant of the Afro-Palaearctic flyway, a summer breeder of the Mediterranean region and North-west Africa and a winter resident of Madagascar and surrounding areas, thus characterized as a double endemic. Within the context of a long-term monitoring and conservation programme on Antikythira Island, Greece, which accommodates one of the largest concentrations of breeding pairs of Eleonora's falcons globally, birds were subjected to regular inspections for the presence of ticks from 2017 to 2023. In total, 104 adults and 149 nymphs (all belonging to Haemaphysalis genus) were collected. All ticks, apart from 2 nymphs, exhibited broadly salient palpi and did not possess the pronounced palpal segment 2 spurs or spur-like angles that are characteristic of adults, nymphs and most larvae of Rhipistoma, thus placed them in the Ornithophysalis subgenus. Following comprehensive morphological assessment and genetic analysis of the mitochondrial genome by means of next-generation sequencing of both adult and nymphal stages of the ticks, our empirical findings substantiate the delineation of a previously unclassified species. This taxonomic assignment situates the newly described species within the Ornithophysalis subgenus and the Haemaphysalis doenitzi group, marking its presence for the first time within the Western Palaearctic region.
Neurodevelopmental predictors of treatment response in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Iftimovici Anton , Krebs Emma , Dalfin William , Legrand Adrien , Scoriels Linda , Martinez Gilles , Bendjemaa Narjes , Duchesnay Edouard , Chaumette Boris , Krebs Marie-Odile
Published: October 2024

Background

Treatment resistance is a major challenge in psychiatric disorders. Early detection of potential future resistance would improve prognosis by reducing the delay to appropriate treatment adjustment and recovery. Here, we sought to determine whether neurodevelopmental markers can predict therapeutic response.

Methods

Healthy controls (N = 236), patients with schizophrenia (N = 280) or bipolar disorder (N = 78) with a known therapeutic outcome, were retrospectively included. Age, sex, education, early developmental abnormalities (obstetric complications, height, weight, and head circumference at birth, hyperactivity, dyslexia, epilepsy, enuresis, encopresis), neurological soft signs (NSS), and ages at first subjective impairment, clinical symptoms, treatment, and hospitalization, were recorded. A supervised algorithm leveraged NSS and age at first clinical signs to classify between resistance and response in schizophrenia.

Results

Developmental abnormalities were more frequent in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder than in controls. NSS significantly differed between controls, responsive, and resistant participants with schizophrenia (5.5 ± 3.0, 7.0 ± 4.0, 15.0 ± 6.0 respectively, p = 3 × 10−10) and bipolar disorder (5.5 ± 3.0, 8.3 ± 3.0, 12.5 ± 6.0 respectively, p < 1 × 10−10). In schizophrenia, but not in bipolar disorder, age at first subjective impairment was three years lower, and age at first clinical signs two years lower, in resistant than responsive subjects (p = 2 × 10−4 and p = 9 × 10−3, respectively). Age at first clinical signs and NSS accurately predicted treatment response in schizophrenia (area-under-curve: 77 ± 8%, p = 1 × 10−14).

Conclusions

Neurodevelopmental features such as NSS and age of clinical onset provide a means to identify patients who may require rapid treatment adaptation.
Pathological personality dimensions and neurobiological emotional reactivity
Authors: Barkley Sarah B. , Feldman Jacob , Levy Adina , Grieshaber Alex , Nelson Brady D.
Published: October 2024

Background

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) offers a promising framework to identify the neurobiological mechanisms of psychopathology. Many forms of psychopathology are characterized by dysfunctional emotional reactivity. The late positive potential (LPP) is an event-related potential component that provides an index of neurobiological emotional reactivity. Several categorical disorders have demonstrated a similar association with the emotion-modulated LPP. It is possible that higher-order dimensional representations of psychopathology might explain the comparable results. The present study examined the association between HiTOP-consistent pathological personality dimensions across multiple levels of the hierarchy and neurobiological emotional reactivity.

Methods

The sample included 215 18–35-year-old adults (86% female) who were oversampled for psychopathology. Participants completed the emotional interrupt task while electroencephalography was recorded to examine the LPP. Participants also completed the Comprehensive Assessment of Traits relevant to Personality Disorders to assess pathological personality.

Results

At the spectra level, higher negative emotionality was associated with a larger emotion-modulated LPP, while higher detachment was associated with a smaller emotion-modulated LPP. There were no associations between higher-order psychopathology levels and the emotion-modulated LPP. Compared to categorical diagnoses, spectra-level personality pathology dimensions significantly improved the prediction of the emotion-modulated LPP.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that HiTOP spectra levels of negative emotionality and detachment demonstrate unique associations with neurobiological emotional reactivity. The study highlights the utility of examining dimensional and hierarchical, rather than categorical, representations of psychopathology in the attempt to identify the neurobiological origins of psychopathology.
Treatment as a moderator and executive function as a mediator of the effect of a mindfulness ecological momentary intervention for generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Zainal Nur Hani , Newman Michelle G.
Published: October 2024

Background

Theory and research indicated that executive functioning (EF) correlated with, preceded, and stemmed from worry in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The present secondary analysis (Zainal & Newman, 2023b) thus determined whether EF domains mediated the effect of a 14-day (5 prompts/day) mindfulness ecological momentary intervention (MEMI) against a self-monitoring control (SM) for GAD.

Method

Participants (N = 110) diagnosed with GAD completed self-reported (Attentional Control Scale, GAD Questionnaire, Perseverative Cognitions Questionnaire) and performance-based tests (Letter-Number Sequencing, Stroop, Trail Making Test-B, Verbal Fluency) at baseline, post-treatment, and one-month follow-up (1MFU). Causal mediation analyses determined if pre-post changes in EF domains preceded and mediated the effect of MEMI against SM on pre-1MFU changes in GAD severity and trait repetitive negative thinking (RNT).

Results

MEMI was more efficacious than SM in improving pre–post inhibition (β = −2.075, 95% [−3.388, −0.762], p = .002), working memory (β = 0.512, 95% [0.012, 1.011], p = .045), and set-shifting (β = −2.916, 95% [−5.142, −0.691], p = .010) but not verbal fluency and attentional control. Within groups, MEMI but not SM produced improvements in all examined pre–post EF outcomes except attentional control. Only pre–post improvements in inhibition mediated the effect of MEMI against SM on pre-1MFU reductions in GAD severity (β = −0.605, 95% [−1.357, −0.044], p = .030; proportion mediated = 7.1%) and trait RNT (β = −0.024, 95% [−0.054, −0.001], p = .040; proportion mediated = 7.4%). These patterns remained after conducting sensitivity analyses with non-linear mediator-outcome relations.

Conclusions

Optimizing MEMI for GAD might entail specifically boosting inhibition plausibly by augmenting it with dialectical behavioral therapy, encouraging high-intensity physical exercises, and targeting negative emotional contrast avoidance.
Beaten, Silenced, Caged: The Costs of Activism
Authors: Delmas Candice
Published: October 2024

From the Freedom Rides to the students’ lunch counter sit-ins, the campaigns of the civil rights movement are seen as the archetypes of civil disobedience. Pineda's wonderful and brilliant book draws on rich archival and historical research to peel the layers of idealization, romanticization, and ideology that have turned the classical phase of the civil rights movement (1954–1965) into both myth and protest template. This illuminating, insightful, and beautifully written book is a must-read for anyone interested in civil disobedience.
Exploring collaborative writing among large groups in online distance learning through a public forum and private chat tool
Authors: Mei Fang , Ma Qing , Tang Jinlan , Zou Bin
Published: October 2024

This study explored how collaborative writing, an often-used instructional strategy in second language (L2) learning, intersects with large-group dynamics, and investigated their potential impact on the quality of writing outcomes in an online distance learning course. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research scrutinized intra-group interaction processes in two large groups undertaking a computer-assisted language learning writing assignment and evaluated the impact of these interaction processes on their writing products. Data from discussions in both a public online forum and a private social communication platform (WeChat) were collected, systematically coded, and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively based on language functions. Data collection also included an assessment of the written products and follow-up group interviews. The findings indicate distinct interaction patterns between high-performing and low-performing groups, characterised by an expert/participant pattern and a dominant/passive pattern, respectively. Additionally, insights from the interviews shed light on these interaction patterns and the potential impact on student learning outcomes. The study suggests practical implications, highlighting the importance of task design in promoting high levels of collaborative knowledge construction to enhance students’ writing skills and L2 language learning in large-group settings.
L2 learner experiences in a playful constructivist metaverse space
Authors: Lee Sangmin-Michelle , Ahn Tae youn
Published: October 2024

This study creates a virtual space for language learning using a user-customizable metaverse platform and explores its potential for EFL learning. To this end, a virtual learning space, grounded in constructivist learning principles – contextualized learning, active learning, and collaborative learning – was created on a 2D metaverse platform. The metaverse was designed as a simulated deserted island for enjoyable and playful learning, allowing the students to actively explore, discover, and interact as they look for clues to escape the island. For educational application, 29 Korean middle school students participated in a two-hour activity. Data included screen recordings of student activities, student surveys, and interviews with the students and teachers. The findings showed that, as an EFL learning space of playful constructivism, the metaverse had great potential to embed contextualized learning and served as a medium for active learning that positively affected student interest and motivation. The results confirmed that the team-based approach combined with a game-like metaverse fostered student collaboration. Overall, the study showcased how language instructors can make use of a customizable metaverse for L2 learning and how a virtual space may serve as an arena for learner-centered instruction.