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This article critically examines the challenges of trade union “just transition” (JT) policies in the context of the ecological crisis. While JT policies have grown in prominence, especially in the Global North, they do not adequately address the ecological crisis since they focus exclusively on decarbonisation without recognising that Green Growth, by reducing emissions increases environmental destruction created by the extraction of ever more minerals and metals. JT policies are further constrained by national boundaries and by a policy centred on jobs only, without acknowledging the broader needs for dignified lives and a regenerative relationship between labour and nature. Research into workers’ visions for the future shows that workers long for cooperation, democratisation from below, a connection of local and global solidarity, and more time to care for themselves and others. The author suggests that unions could connect with such visions to develop transformative, globally coordinated JT strategies that centre on cooperation and self-determination, allowing them to move away from growth imperatives towards a regenerative economy that centres on care for both, people and nature.
This study investigated whether aspirin and atorvastatin provide additional antidepressant effects in patients with major affective disorders and inflammatory dysregulation.
Methods:
Three 12-week treatment groups, each receiving aspirin (100 mg/day), atorvastatin (10 mg/day), or a placebo, were randomly assigned to 14 patients (seven with major depressive disorder [MDD] and seven with bipolar disorder [BD]), as well as two additional groups of 17 patients (each with nine patients with MDD and eight patients with BD). All patients had Clinical Global Impressions scores ≤3 and met the criteria for inflammatory dysregulation (i.e., C-reactive protein (CRP) level ≥ 1,000 ng/ml or soluble tumour necrosis factor-α receptor 1 (TNF-αR1) level ≥ 800 pg/ml). The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Montgomery-Sberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) were used to assess depressive symptoms, and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) was used to assess overall functioning. Baseline and week 12 CRP, TNF-αR1, and soluble IL-2 receptor (sIL-2R) levels were evaluated.
Results:
Generalised estimating equation models demonstrated a reduction in total HDRS (p < 0.001) and MADRS (p < 0.001) scores and an increase in GAF scores (p < 0.001) in the medication groups compared with the placebo group. Only atorvastatin increased anti-inflammatory cytokine sIL-2R levels (p < 0.001). Both atorvastatin (p < 0.001) and aspirin (p = 0.025) raised proinflammatory cytokine sTNF-αR1 levels. Discussion: Aspirin and atorvastatin improved depressive symptoms and overall function in patients with major affective disorders. However, both medications raised TNF-αR1 levels, and only atorvastatin increased sIL-2R levels.
The near-axis description of optimised stellarator fields has proven to be a powerful tool both for the design and understanding of this magnetic confinement concept. The description consists of an asymptotic model of the equilibrium in the distance from its centremost axis, and is thus only approximate. Any practical application therefore requires the eventual construction of a global equilibrium. This paper presents a novel way of constructing global equilibria using the DESC code that guarantees the correct asymptotic behaviour imposed by a given near-axis construction. The theoretical underpinnings of this construction are carefully presented, and benchmarking examples provided. This opens the door to an efficient coupling of the near-axis framework and that of global equilibria for future optimisation efforts.
The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) by teenagers is increasing rapidly. GenAI is a form of artificial intelligence that creates new text, images, video and audio, using models based on huge amounts of training data. However, using GenAI can also create misinformation and biased, inappropriate and harmful outputs. Teenagers are increasingly using GenAI in daily life, including in mental healthcare, and may not be aware of the limitations and risks. GenAI may also be used for malicious purposes that may have long-term, negative impacts on mental health. There is a need to increase awareness of how GenAI may have a negative impact on the mental health of teenagers.
Global migration is reshaping mental healthcare, creating challenges and opportunities that demand intercultural dialogue. In 2021 the World Psychiatry Exchange Program was launched under the auspices of the World Psychiatric Association to promote global collaboration and mutual learning. Its third call for applications, opened in October 2023, received 162 applications from 68 individuals, more than double the number from the second edition. Applicants represented a diverse geographical distribution (Asia 58.8%, Africa 22.1%, Europe 10.3%, South America 5.9% and North America 2.9%), with ages ranging from 25 to 52 years (mean 34 years). Just over half (53%) were early career psychiatrists within 7 years of specialising, while 47% were psychiatry trainees. Following a competitive selection process, 15 psychiatrists undertook exchanges in 2024 across Europe, Africa and Asia, with placements in Croatia, India, Iran, Malaysia, Tunisia, Spain and the United Kingdom. Evaluation data showed consistently positive feedback: 82% strongly endorsed the clarity and ease of the application process, and all participants reported feeling well supported by local coordinators.As psychiatry responds to global demographic change, investment in intercultural competencies and flexible training pathways is essential. The psychiatrist of the future is a global psychiatrist, equipped to deliver care, education, and leadership globally.
We investigate the influence of shear-thinning and viscoelasticity on turbulent drag reduction in lubricated channel flow – a configuration where a thin lubricating layer of non-Newtonian fluid facilitates the transport of a primary Newtonian fluid. Direct numerical simulations are performed in a channel flow driven by a constant mean pressure gradient at a reference shear Reynolds number $\textit{Re}_\tau = 300$. The interface between the two fluid layers is characterised by Weber number $\textit{We} = 0.5$. The fluids are assumed to have matched densities. In addition to a single-phase reference case, we analyse four configurations: a Newtonian lubrication layer, a shear-thinning Carreau fluid layer, a shear-thinning and viscoelastic FENE-P fluid layer, and a purely viscoelastic FENE-CR fluid layer. Consistent with previous findings (Roccon et al. 2019, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 863, R1), surface tension is found to induce significant drag reduction across all cases. Surprisingly, variations in the lubricating layer viscosity do not yield noticeable drag-reducing effects: the Carreau fluid, despite its lower apparent viscosity, behaves similarly to the Newtonian case. In contrast, viscoelastic effects lead to a further reduction in drag, with both the FENE-P and FENE-CR fluids demonstrating enhanced drag-reducing capabilities.
Negative out-group attitudes are often attributed to perceptions of competition or threat. We propose an alternative source: culture, conceptualized as cultural scripts—interconnected networks of meanings that link particular group identities to negatively connoted phenomena. Evidence comes from three studies on the reactivation of the cultural script of traditional antisemitism in Germany. We begin our analysis by isolating the cultural script through automated analysis of a corpus of antisemitic texts. Next, using survey data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 17,800), we document an increase in antisemitism among Christian believers. This, we argue, is due to the pandemic activating the cultural script of traditional antisemitism, which links Judaism with the spread of disease. By means of an additional survey (n = 2,000) and a concept association task, we demonstrate the presence of the cultural script in the minds of Christian believers. Two priming experiments explore how elements of the script can be triggered. Our work demonstrates the deep cultural roots of negative out-group attitudes and suggests a novel set of methods for studying them.
This article explores the intersection of neurology and psychiatry in the assessment of psychosis. It provides a practical overview of neurological disorders associated with psychosis, including epilepsy, autoimmune encephalitis, neurodegenerative dementias, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, cerebrovascular disease, traumatic brain injury, brain neoplasms, multiple sclerosis and genetic neurodevelopmental syndromes. Accurate diagnosis requires recognising clinical red flags and adopting a multidisciplinary approach that integrates psychopathology, neuropsychology, neuroimaging, electrophysiology and biomarker analysis. Treatment strategies vary according to aetiology and may include antipsychotics and others pharmacological resources, immunotherapy, neuromodulation and behavioural interventions.
We detail here a semi-analytical model for the pellet rocket effect, which describes the acceleration of pellets in a fusion plasma due to asymmetries in the heat flux reaching the pellet surface and the corresponding ablation rate. This effect was shown in experiments to significantly modify the pellet trajectory, and previously projected deceleration values of ${\sim} 10^6\,\textrm {m}\,\textrm{s}^{-2}$ for reactor-scale devices indicated that it may severely limit the effectiveness of pellet injection methods. We account for asymmetries stemming both from plasma parameter gradients and an asymmetric plasmoid shielding caused by the drift of the ionised pellet cloud. For high temperature, reactor relevant scenarios, we find a wide range of initial pellet sizes and speeds – particularly those relevant for large fragments of shattered pellet injection for disruption mitigation – where the rocket effect has a major impact on the penetration depth. In these cases, the plasma parameter profile variations dominate the rocket effect. We find that for small and fast pellets, where the rocket effect is less pronounced, plasmoid shielding-induced asymmetries dominate.
Historical data and monitoring can provide important information on how landscapes respond to environmental and human-induced change. We re-assessed plants, soils and livestock carrying capacity at a research station in eastern Australia after 42 years. We detected significant declines in the densities of key perennial shrubs (Atriplex vesicaria, Maireana astrotricha, Maireana pyramidata, -78%), an index of groundstorey plant quality (-8%), and the cover of erosion (-43%) between 1980 and 2022. Assessed ‘safe carrying capacity’ declined from 14.5 to 12.4 dry sheep equivalents per 100 ha over that period (-14.6%). These declines were evident in ranges and footslopes, but not on the plains. Shrubs declined by a similar percentage when assessed at a small spatial scale in one paddock. There was no clear indication that sheep stocking rates were driving temporal trends in plants. Rather, we attribute changes over more than 40 years to fluctuations in rainfall, and potentially, greater density of kangaroos and feral goats. Our study provides insights into moderately long-term changes in the biophysical attributes of rangelands and reinforces the importance of using historic data to assess environmental change as large areas of Earth become hotter and drier.
Disentangling how forests respond to aridification in terms of carbon storage and use, including bimodal growth, is critical to forecast their mitigation potential. Bimodality, characteristic of Mediterranean trees, refers to the potential to produce a second growth peak after the dry summer, often accompanied by intra-annual wood density fluctuations (IADF). To induce IADF formation, we performed a girdling experiment on Spanish juniper (Juniperus thurifera) branches in a semi-arid site, and monitored changes in branch diameter, and measured non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) concentrations in sapwood and leaves. IADFs were formed in response to wet conditions in late summer in girdled and non-girdled branches. After girdling, the extraordinarily dry 2022 growing season hampered branch radial increment and IADF production. Girdled branches swelled more than control branches after rain pulses. This suggests girdled branches were osmotically more active. Girdled branches presented higher starch leaf concentrations, suggesting that osmolytes could proceed from starch hydrolysis upstream. Girdling did neither trigger bimodal growth nor IADF formation during a very dry year.
The study examines the agricultural transformation of Almería (1950-1989), emphasizing its emergence as Europe’s “market garden.” Key factors include state-driven irrigation projects, innovations like soil mulching, greenhouses, and drip irrigation, which boosted productivity and reduced farm sizes. While state intervention was modest, private initiatives and credit institutions accelerated the expansion of intensive, export-oriented agriculture. This shift reshaped land tenure, increasing smallholdings and diminishing traditional large estates, fundamentally altering the region’s agrarian structure.
Although they are critical for military units’ compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL), junior leaders are often overlooked in the development of ethical and moral decision-making when it comes to education and training. To foster the internalization of IHL principles in this vital cohort, those principles must be better melded with military ethics. Through examination of different military efforts to create ethical warriors, important points from behavioural ethics, the use of warrior ethoses, instances of competing positive values, and ideas for effective and affordable curricula, the present article suggests a path forward for accomplishing this.
Dreams were an important but epistemically ambiguous feature of ancient medicine and a key site of religious experience. Galen of Pergamum, whose father’s dreams were decisive in his becoming a physician, incorporates dreams into diagnostic inquiry, therapeutic innovation and theological speculation. Scholars have long treated Galen’s positive descriptions of his and others’ dreams as indications of religious commitments at odds with his avowed rationalist epistemology. This article re-examines Galenic texts on dream diagnosis, references to dream-based therapies and descriptions of his father’s dreams. Having traced Galen’s sources and descriptions of dreams, it shows that the oneiric is perfectly comprehensible within his rationalist, physiological framework. The article shifts questions of dreams’ significance from their origins to descriptions of their quality and the context of their mention. The article concludes by showing that, consonant with his own epistemological and rhetorical commitments, dreams offer the Pergamene physician confirmatory techniques, means of surprise and innovation and a rhetorical strategy for validating his knowledge, skill and standing.
Pentanchids (Elasmobranchii) are among the most species-rich groups of chondrichthyans. In the North Atlantic Ocean, the Icelandic catshark [Apristurus laurussonii (Saemundsson)], white ghost catshark (Apristurus aphyodes Nakaya & Stehmann), and mouse catshark [Galeus murinus (Collett)] are commonly found in deepwater habitats. However, information on their parasite communities remains scarce. This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of the metazoan parasite communities of the 3 pentanchid species. In total, 56 specimens were collected in Icelandic waters at depths of 466–1322 m between 2023 and 2024 and examined using standardized parasitological protocols, including morphological and molecular methods. Infection patterns were assessed in relation to size, maturity, body condition and capture area of hosts. Parasite intensities in all sharks ranged from 2 to 227 individuals, comprising 15 different taxa and resulting in 27 new parasite–host records, some of which likely representing new species. Eight out of 9 commonly found parasites did not display a high degree of host-specificity, indicating similar feeding habits, niche preferences, and trophic position of these sympatric species. Nonetheless, multivariate analyses revealed significant differences in the structure and composition of their parasite assemblages, with some parasites representing indicator species and occurring more abundantly and frequently in a certain deepwater catshark species. In addition, significant small-scale geographic differences were detected. At a broader geographical scale, North Atlantic pentanchids showed higher parasite richness and diversity, and lower dominance compared to standardized data from Mediterranean counterparts. Ecological factors underlying these patterns on host–parasite dynamics in (deepwater) cat sharks are discussed.
Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have emerged as powerful educational tools for disseminating complex scientific knowledge. This study examines the RECONECT MOOC, an innovative online learning platform designed to educate stakeholders about nature-based solutions (NbS) for hydrometeorological risk reduction. Developed by a multidisciplinary team of international experts, the course drew on diverse professional and geographical perspectives, across a range of national and sectoral contexts. Its primary aim to bridge the knowledge gap in climate adaptation strategies across diverse professional sectors. The research investigated the effectiveness of interactive, multimedia-based learning approaches in communicating advanced NbS concepts. Using the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) framework, the course integrated multiple learning methods, including reading, listening, inquiry-based learning, discussion forums and practical application exercises. The MOOC was divided into six modules and targeted local authorities, policymakers, academics, postgraduate students and other stakeholders interested in climate resilience. Findings revealed that 90% of participants gained additional NbS knowledge, 69% reported a shift in perception and 62% felt confident applying what they learned. Participants valued the interactive resources and flexible, self-paced format. Overall, the study demonstrates that MOOCs can effectively support scientific knowledge dissemination and strengthen understanding of complex environmental solutions.
Evaluate whether a complex outpatient antimicrobial therapy (COpAT) program led by advanced practice providers (APPs) conducting transition-of-care (TOC) services improves post discharge patient follow-up and reduces hospital readmission.
Design:
Pre- and postimplementation cohort study comparing outcomes 6 months before and 5 months after COpAT launch.
Setting:
706-bed tertiary university teaching hospital.
Patients:
Adult patients admitted to the hospital with bone and joint infections, seen by our inpatient infectious disease consultation service and discharged with at least fourteen days of antimicrobial therapy, with follow-up at our specialized musculoskeletal infectious diseases clinic.
Intervention:
The APP led pilot COpAT program was launched on March 1st, 2024, with a multidisciplinary team including an infectious diseases physician, APP, nurse, medical assistant, and TOC pharmacists. Patients enrolled at hospital discharge and were scheduled for APP-led TOC visits within fourteen days, followed by a physician visit.
Results:
The pre- and post-intervention groups included 100 and 135 patients, respectively. Mean postdischarge follow-up time decreased from 20.1 to 9.1 days (P < .001), and patients seen within fourteen days increased from 42% to 83% (P < .001). Readmission rates and emergency room visits did not change significantly. TOC pharmacy engagement rose from 8% to 42% (P < .001), and both TOC pharmacy and APP interventions frequently addressed medication errors, side effects, and treatment modifications.
Conclusion:
A structured, COpAT program with APP and TOC pharmacy involvement optimizes postdischarge follow-up, strengthens antimicrobial outpatient monitoring, and supports timely intervention for patients with complex infections.
Task-based language teaching is believed to facilitate language learning opportunities that arise when performing tasks. Although the synergies between task and learner variables in this process rose to prominence recently, little has been undertaken to explore the individual difference-task interaction in textual meaning-making activities. This study thus explored how second language (L2) writing performance under different task complexity conditions was impacted by L2 writing willingness to communicate (WTC) and L2 writing proficiency. Participants with upper-intermediate English proficiency were recruited following a within-between-participant factorial research design. The results confirmed that WTC significantly influenced syntactic complexity, accuracy, and fluency in L2 writing, suggesting that conative individual differences (IDs) might play a more prominent role in L2 writing than cognitive IDs. Among the sub-components of WTC, motivational predispositions performed better than emotional, cognitive, and writing-specific features in affecting L2 writing performance. Additionally, WTC played a more pronounced role in the complex task, supporting the claim of Robinson’s cognition hypothesis that ID effects are more evident in complex tasks than simple tasks. However, no interaction between L2 writing WTC and proficiency was found. Theoretical and pedagogical implications were offered on considering both L2 WTC and task complexity in task-based writing instruction.
Teju Cole’s Open City is one of several recent postcolonial novels that narrate the refugee crisis and the threats to nonhuman species in a way that takes seriously the parallels and interspecies relationships. I am interested in the extent to which novels that explore kinships across boundaries of kind manage to make a space for the nonhuman in the anthropocentric form of the novel. In the case of Open City, I argue that Cole’s figural approach offers a means of formalizing the human representation of nonhuman others as a problem and allows readers to make connections across species boundaries even as the novel raises the specter of moral stasis through the cosmopolitan narrator’s failure to take an ethical stance with respect to those in search of refuge, human or not. This failure is a human one, and in offering an anatomy of such a failure, Cole invites scrutiny of cosmopolitanism as much as of the novel form’s anthropocentrism.