Multidisciplinary Research Program Research Articles

Data supporting the North Atlantic Climate System Integrated Study (ACSIS) programme, including atmospheric composition; oceanographic and sea-ice observations (2016–2022); and output from ocean, atmosphere, land, and sea-ice models (1950–2050)

Abstract. The North Atlantic Climate System Integrated Study (ACSIS) was a large multidisciplinary research programme funded by the UK's Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). ACSIS ran from 2016 to 2022 and brought together around 80 scientists from seven leading UK-based environmental research institutes to deliver major advances in the understanding of North Atlantic climate variability and extremes. Here, we present an overview of the data generated by the ACSIS programme. The datasets described cover the North Atlantic Ocean, the atmosphere above it (including its composition), and Arctic sea ice. Atmospheric composition datasets include measurements from seven aircraft campaigns (45 flights in total, 0–10 km altitude range) in the northeastern Atlantic (∼ 15–55° N, ∼ 40° W–5° E) made at intervals of 6 months to 2 years between February 2017 and May 2022. The flights measured chemical species (including greenhouse gases; ozone precursors; and volatile organic compounds – VOCs) and aerosols (organic aerosol – OA; SO4; NH4; NO3; and non-sea salt chloride – nss-Cl) (https://doi.org/10.5285/6285564c34a246fc9ba5ce053d85e5e7, FAAM et al., 2024). Ground-based stations at the Cape Verde Atmospheric Observatory (CVAO), Penlee Point Atmospheric Observatory (PPAO), and Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) recorded ozone, ozone precursors, halocarbons, greenhouse gases (CO2 and methane), SO2, and photolysis rates (CVAO; http://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/81693aad69409100b1b9a247b9ae75d5, National Centre for Atmospheric Science et al., 2010); O3 and CH4 (PPAO, https://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/8f1ff8ea77534e08b03983685990a9b0 (Plymouth Marine Laboratory and Yang, 2017); and aerosols (PML, https://doi.org/10.5285/e74491c96ef24df29a9342a3d57b5939, Smyth, 2024), respectively. Complementary model simulations of atmospheric composition were performed with the UK Earth System Model (UKESM1) for the period from 1982 to 2020 using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) historical forcing up to 2014 and Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP) scenario SSP3-7.0 from 2015 to 2020. Model temperature and winds were relaxed towards ERA reanalysis. Monthly mean model data for ozone, NO, NO2, CO, methane, stratospheric ozone tracers, and 30 regionally emitted tracers are available for download (https://data.ceda.ac.uk/badc/acsis/UKESM1-hindcasts, Abraham, 2024). ACSIS also generated new ocean heat content diagnostics (https://doi.org/10/g6wm, https://doi.org/10/g8g2, Moat et al., 2021a–b) and gridded temperature and salinity based on objectively mapped Argo measurements (https://doi.org/10.5285/fe8e524d-7f04-41f3-e053-6c86abc04d51 King, 2023). An ensemble of atmosphere-forced global-ocean sea-ice simulations using the NEMO-CICE model was performed with horizontal resolutions of 1/4 and 1/12° covering the period from 1958 to 2020 using several different atmosphere-reanalysis-based surface forcing datasets, supplemented by additional global simulations and stand-alone sea-ice model simulations with advanced sea-ice physics using the CICE model (http://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/770a885a8bc34d51ad71e87ef346d6a8, Megann et al., 2021e). Output is stored as monthly averages and includes 3D potential temperature, salinity, zonal velocity, meridional velocity, and vertical velocity; 2D sea-surface height, mixed-layer depth, surface heat, and freshwater fluxes; ice concentration and thickness; and a wide variety of other variables. In addition to the data presented here, we provide a very brief overview of several other datasets that were generated during ACSIS and have been described previously in the literature.

Engaging stakeholders in embedded newborn health services/systems research in Kenya; a continuous process involving multiple actors.

Background Engaging relevant stakeholders throughout the research cycle is increasingly recognised as critical to conducting quality health systems research. There are few descriptions and analyses of stakeholder engagement in practice for embedded health systems research especially those that must navigate multi-level decentralised health systems. We describe and reflect on the stakeholder engagement activities of an international multi-disciplinary programme of research focused on newborn care in hospitals in Kenya. Methodology Our experienced project stakeholder engagement group coordinated engagement activities across multiple stakeholders with differing interests in the research. We conducted a stakeholder mapping and analysis using an engagement matrix to include national and county-level policymakers, professional communities, associations and regulators, health managers, frontline healthcare workers, patients, families and patient representative groups. Our engagement group maintained a log of engagement activities and had regular programme feedback meetings and discussions. As part of our analysis of stakeholder engagement, we drew on project documents and meeting minutes, and on a conceptual framework which distinguishes between the moral, strategic and practicaldimensions of stakeholder engagement. Results Stakeholder engagement was essential but complex in practice. Although we had significant prior engagement experience and relationships at the hospitals and the counties, introducing new staff into NBUs triggered complexities that required careful consultation along the bureaucracies at the counties. Despite the counties having similar hierarchical architectures, engagement processes varied and achieved different outcomes across counties. There were also multiple officeholder transitions over the research period, occasioned by factors in our external environment, often necessitating engaging afresh. Conclusion Even with a carefully developed stakeholder engagement plan, an experienced team, and a landscape backed by long-term embeddedness, health research stakeholder engagement can unfold in unexpected ways and requires continuous effort, resources, and adaptability. Meeting the moral, strategic, and practical potential of engagement requires flexibility, responsiveness, and commitment, including adequate resources.

Towards a Greener Tomorrow: Exploring the Potential of AI, Blockchain, and IoT in Sustainable Development

This article examines the potential for artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to advance sustainability. Through a literature review and critical analysis, the study evaluates the possible advantages, difficulties, and opportunities of utilizing these technologies to support a sustainable future. The research study emphasizes how effective AI is at streamlining resource management, increasing system efficiency, and optimizing energy use. It focuses on the potential of blockchain to improve supply chain accountability and transparency, and it also discusses the game-changing potential of IoT to improve resource management. However, some issues must be resolved, including excessive costs, technological difficulties, data privacy concerns, and social repercussions. The essay advocates creating multidisciplinary research programs, funding R&D, and supporting collaborative relationships. It also suggests creating sustainable implementation plans, prioritizing ethical issues and data governance, and encouraging information exchange and awareness. By accepting these proposals, stakeholders may leverage the promise of green technology and innovation to build a sustainable future. It is also clear that the Internet of Things (IoT) can potentially optimize resource management. Real-time data on a variety of topics, including traffic conditions, air and water quality, and water management, can be provided through IoT-enabled sensors. Cities may reduce traffic, increase energy efficiency, enhance environmental conditions, and encourage sustainable water management techniques by utilizing this data to inform their decisions. However, serious consideration must be given to data privacy, security, scalability, and interoperability issues to ensure IoT solutions’ ethical and efficient adoption. Despite their enormous potential, the paper acknowledges the difficulties and constraints in implementing these technologies. Significant obstacles include high implementation costs, complex technical requirements, and the requirement for adequate data privacy and security safeguards. A sustainable and inclusive future also requires resolving ethical issues, including algorithmic prejudice, social fairness, and equitable access to technology. The report recommends encouraging cooperative relationships between academia, business, government, and communities to address these issues. Research and development investments are required to evaluate these technologies’ practical use, scalability, and economic viability. In addition, multidisciplinary research initiatives can comprehensively comprehend green technology and innovation’s social, economic, and environmental effects. It has been concluded that there is great potential for future technologies, such as AI, blockchain, and IoT, to advance sustainability. Stakeholders can use these technologies’ revolutionary potential to build a sustainable future by resolving obstacles, promoting collaboration, and doing additional research. To ensure the ethical and successful application of green technology and innovation for the benefit of the environment and future generations, it is essential to prioritize ethical considerations, establish sustainable implementation strategies, and foster information exchange and awareness.

Abstract PO4-27-02: Pandemic Shifts: How did elective breast cancer care change?

Abstract Introduction: As the COVID-19 pandemic began, concerns arose that timely utilization of elective breast cancer care would decrease due to state moratoriums, travel restrictions, or fear, resulting in poorer long-term outcomes. Advances in telemedicine provided a new avenue for care; however, rapid implementation brought concerns about variable uptake and disparities. To support longitudinal clinical and epidemiological studies, this analysis described elective breast cancer care utilization during the first year of the pandemic, including patient, hospital, and geographic barriers and facilitators. Methods: The Multidisciplinary Breast Reconstruction Research Program team reviewed all breast cancer surgeries and procedures at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center during the pre-pandemic (March 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020) and pandemic (March 1, 2020 to February 28, 2021) periods. The team identified procedures that were deemed elective or preference-sensitive, and summarized the timeline of pandemic milestones and changes, including the implementation of telemedicine appointments. A data analyst summarized the distributions of completed, canceled, rescheduled, and never completed procedures. T tests and analyses of variance tested differences between the pre-pandemic and pandemic year. Generalized linear models assessed patient, hospital, and geographic factors that correlated with successful access to, and completion of, procedures. Two focus groups reviewed data and informed the interpretation of results. Results: During the first pandemic year, 30 breast care procedures were identified that were postponed during March-April, July-August, and December-January. Surprisingly, no decrease in overall utilization of elective care procedures was observed; in fact, 19% more elective breast cancer care surgeries and procedures were scheduled (4752 pre-pandemic vs 4003 pandemic) in 13% more episodes of care (2723 pre-pandemic vs 2415 pandemic). As expected, rescheduling of procedures increased 98% (from 14% pre-pandemic to 27% pandemic); however, the majority of procedures were able to be completed by the end of the year (72% pre-pandemic, 73% pandemic). Telemedicine did not significantly mediate successful completion, as the majority of procedures were prophylactic or reconstructive surgeries. However, extended hours (p = 0.03) and proximity to the hospital facilitated access and successful completion of care (p< 0.01). The most common procedures that were not able to be performed within the first year of the pandemic were autologous breast reconstruction, revision, and mastopexy. Notably, patients reported slightly improved rates of anxiety and depression during the initial pandemic year (11% vs 14%, p = 0.04), possibly due to relative privation or comparison bias. Clinicians and patients/survivors noted several “lessons learned” that may inform access and preference-sensitive care delivery. Conclusions: Despite three periods of state-mandated discontinuation of elective care procedures, the majority of patients were able to access and successfully complete elective breast cancer care during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies and initiatives may use this information to explore innovations in care delivery and short- and long-term effects on health outcomes. Citation Format: Haoqi Wang, Greg Reece, Mary Catherine Bordes, Mia Markey, Aubri Hoffman. Pandemic Shifts: How did elective breast cancer care change? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-27-02.

Stormwise: Innovative Forest Management to Promote Storm Resistance in Roadside Forests

Abstract A growing proportion of forested landscapes are interspersed with human infrastructure, such as utility lines and roads, increasing the potential for tree-failure consequences due to storms and other causes. Utilities and other institutions have strong incentives to reduce such interactions and allocate substantial resources to risk reduction, but trees and forests in densely populated landscapes also provide significant amenities to society. We present a generalized framework for “Stormwise” forest management, focused on resistance of roadside forests to storms, based on elements of arboricultural and silvicultural practice and tree biomechanics and architecture. We detail results of a multidisciplinary research program focused on management outcomes, opportunities and barriers to implementation, and allocation of investment based on physical and social landscape characteristics. We discuss initial findings, the potential for widespread adoption of resilience-focused management in roadside and infrastructure-adjacent forests, and the importance of such work, considering a changing climate. Study Implications: The research and implementation program we detail here illustrates the potential for “Stormwise” forest management to reduce storm-damage recovery costs, result in fewer and shorter-duration power and transportation interruptions, and allow for low-investment ground-based management in future forest entries. We illustrate a multifaceted, interdisciplinary research program that links the geospatial, social, and biophysical components of understanding forest infrastructure systems. We illustrate how implementation of Stormwise management has the potential to benefit stakeholders such as residents and utilities, offset the substantial economic costs of tree-related power outages, and reduce societal disruptions associated with interactions between trees and infrastructure during storms.

Association of asthma risk factors and the prevalence of the disease in a population of Brazil.

Background. Asthma, a chronic lower airway disease, affects all age groups worldwide. Its prevalence varies globally, with Brazil estimating over 10% affected. Risk factors include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and environmental exposures. Understanding these factors is crucial for effective prevention strategies. The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between the previously described asthma risk factors and the prevalence of asthma in a population of Brazilian adults. Methods. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data collected from 7,891 patients. All patients in the database > 18 years of age were included. The following variables were collected from the health plan database: age, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and asthma diagnosis. The frequency of the collected variables was compared between patients with or without an asthma diagnosis, and logistic regression was performed. Results. Of our total sample (7,891 patients), 150 (1.9%) had asthma. The mean age of patients with asthma was 39.4 years. 1.4% of normal weight patients had the diagnosis of asthma, while 2.4% of overweight and 2.2% of obese patients had the diagnosis. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a sedentary lifestyle and overweight and obesity were independently associated with asthma prevalence Odds Ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval]: (1.61 [1.16-2.22] and 1.25 [1.03-1.52] respectively). Conclusions. Our data provide evidence that some clinical characteristics, such as sedentarism, overweight, and obesity, may be related to the prevalence of asthma in an adult population in southeastern Brazil. Such factors could be modified and better understood through multidisciplinary research and health programs that evaluate the risk factors for asthma in large populations.

Writing the Legal History of Madness in French Africa (Late 19th Century–1960)

For a long time, the legal history of madness was a marginal topic of research within the field of studies into French colonial law and justice in the 19th and 20th centuries. For the past decade, however, studies of madness in a colonial context, on the African continent, have undergone both a thematic and methodological revival, as evidenced by the rise of specific, collective and multidisciplinary research programmes such as AMIAF (Aliéné mental et indigène. Histoire d’une double discrimination de statut en Afrique française—Insane and Native. A Legal History of a Double Discrimination of Status in French Africa) and MADAF (A History of Madness in West Africa: Governing Mental Disorder during Decolonisation [1940s-1970s]). The legal discourse and practices governing the mental alteration of populations colonised by France in Africa are at the heart of the research that has been carried out by the multidisciplinary team of the AMIAF programme since 2019. It appears vital to reflect on the sources that must be be drawn on when engaging in such research. What documents allow us to study the legal treatment of madness in a colonial context? How are we to index them, interrogate them, interpret them and cross-reference them with each other? What does their configuration tell us about the legal and administrative discourse and practices connected to madness (in particular that of the colonised populations)? In light of these concerns, this article examines the methodological challenges posed by the constitution of a corpus allowing us to study the legal and administrative treatment of madness in African territories formerly colonised by France. The sources at the heart of this contribution mainly come from the fonds of the Archives nationales d’outre-mer d’Aix-en-Provence, the Service historique de la défense de Toulon, and certain medical journals from the period under consideration devoted to medicine and colonial psychiatry. These constitute materials that are heterogeneous and dispersed, not just in geographical terms but also within the same archival fonds; they reveal a rupture in the legal treatment of madness in disparate contexts (arrests, internment procedures in accordance with the indigénat regime, complaints, reforms of the legislative framework, management of healthcare sites that existed prior to colonisation, financial issues, legal proceedings), independently of healthcare institutions, which go well beyond sanitary considerations, connecting instead with colonial policies, the maintenance of public order and financial issues.This article analyses these sources through the AMIAF digital library, which was designed and set up within the framework of its homonymous ANR research programme. Far from limiting itself to establishing a corpus of documents, this digital tool allows its users to analyse the documents hosted using new paths that permit them to sort and order these sources in original ways. The search and ordering methods offered by the AMIAF library include the “Index” and the “Tag Cloud.” Using these search tools, in particular the index of “Words of Madness” and the tag “Signs of Madness,” the article dwells on the vocabulary used by the players of colonial law in referring to the mental alteration of African populations, as well as the elements they used to detect it. Far from laying any claim to exhaustiveness or complete analysis in this field, these examples aim to reveal the benefits of carrying out research using this tool where the documents hosted are displayed and sequenced according to an order and criteria that allow the researcher to easily carry out new comparative analyses.

Designing Software for Web-based Psychosocial Care: Longitudinal Design Science Research in U-CARE

This paper addresses the design of software for web-based psychosocial care – an increasing and highly relevant societal issue. The paper explores two primary research questions: 1) What design principles should guide the creation of web-based software for online psychological support, and 2) How can design science research facilitate the development and assessment of innovative eHealth solutions? Our research – a tailored DSR approach – was conducted over a 10+ year period within the multi-disciplinary research programme U-CARE. As information systems researchers, we worked as researchers and developers, in tight collaboration with psychologists, economists, medical doctors, nurses, and other key stakeholders. Through this process, we continually reflected and abstracted our experiences into design principles and DSR methodology. In response to the first research question, we introduce a set of design principles for web-based psychosocial support, shaped by the overarching LAME DSR approach. These principles include malleability for adaptability and sustainability, privacy and accountability in online environments, and a focus on stakeholder-specific functionalities like therapist dashboards and smooth authentication processes. In response to the second research question, we present the LAME DSR approach and an informed argument concerning its role in the establishment of a strategic, high-impact research environment.

Practical psychosocial care for providers of pre-hospital care: a summary of the report ‘valuing staff, valuing patients’

BackgroundCaring for people who are ill or injured in pre-hospital environments is emotionally draining and physically demanding. This article focuses on the Psychosocial and Mental Health Programme commissioned by the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care (FPHC) at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) in 2018 to investigate the experiences and needs of responders to pre-hospital emergencies and make recommendations. It summarises the report to FPHC published in 2022, and adds material from research published subsequently.MethodFPHC appointed a team to undertake the work. Team members conducted a literature review, and a systematic review of the literature concerning the impacts on the mental health of pre-hospital practitioners. They conducted fieldwork, participated in training and had conversations with trainees and established practitioners, and took evidence from the Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine Trainees Association (PHEMTA).ResultsThe Results summarise the evidence-based theoretical background derived from the programme and practical guidance for practitioners, professional organisations, and employers who deliver pre-hospital care on the implications of, preventing and intervening with pre-hospital providers who experience psychosocial and mental health problems.ConclusionThis paper summarises the outputs from a multidisciplinary programme of scholarship, research, and fieldwork. The authors condense the findings and the guidance developed by the Programme Team to provide a summary of the report and guidance on implementation. They believe that the recommendations are applicable to all healthcare organisations and particularly those that employ responders to emergencies and provide pre-hospital care.

The impact of a forage plant breeder – the story of Herrick Sydney (Syd) Easton (1946 - 2023)

Herrick Sydney (Syd) Easton was a forage plant breeder for 46 years. He bred at least 11 forage cultivars, in ryegrass, tall fescue and lucerne that were successfully licensed and commercialised, and he was a key part of the team that developed the successful Epichloë fungal endophyte products ‘Endosafe’, AR1, AR37, and ‘MaxP’ (‘MaxQ’ in USA). Syd’s development of measurement techniques and documentation of genetic variation for potentially valuable novel traits has been detailed in 130 refereed and significant publications, and he was an inventor or co-inventor of 13 patents and/or Plant Variety Rights. Syd made an important contribution in the understanding of endophyte-ryegrass interactions. Through his innovation and leadership, he led the multi-disciplinary AgResearch endophyte research programme, coordinating and writing the first successful funding application that consolidated the team. Coming from a farming family Syd connected with farmers and understood the value of highly supportive farmers and agricultural professionals who were able to critique, understand the value of and use the technologies and knowledge delivered from the science research he was involved with. Like many others in the agricultural research profession, he gained immense satisfaction from seeing technologies resulting from his research being used on New Zealand farms.

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis to Evaluate Sustainability and Circularity in Agricultural Waste Management

Agriculture is a major contributor to global anthropogenic emissions, such as waste production and greenhouse gases. In order to reduce these negative impacts, a circular economy should be applied to agriculture waste management. Processes for evaluating treatment and valorization options are fundamental to the implementation of long-term, economically viable, ecologically sound, and socially acceptable policies and practices. In this field, multi-criteria decision analysis methods (MCDAs) can offer a holistic perspective on the decision-making processes. This study deeply explores this area of research by conducting an extensive and critical review of the studies that have used MCDA approaches to support agricultural waste management. The aim is to better understand how MCDA methods have been applied (in an integrated manner or as complementary approaches) and how stakeholders have been involved. The research conducted underlines how MCDAs are now widely used to support decision-making in this area, as well as being increasingly applied in multi-methodologies. This study is part of an ongoing Next-Generation-EU-integrated, large-scale, multi-disciplinary research program, The National Research Centre for Agricultural Technologies.

Evaluating Collaboration in a Translational Research Ecosystem

A core challenge of a multidisciplinary and multi-organizational translational research program is to set up and promote collaboration between researchers, labs, and organizations. Although the literature has studied and provided guidelines for collaboration, little has been written on how to evaluate it in large research projects and in a practical way. This study aims to identify dimensions and barriers to evaluating and leveraging collaboration in a large translational research ecosystem related to developing phytotherapy-based cancer treatments. By applying the Collaboration Evaluation and Improvement Framework (CEIF), our paper adds value by developing a methodological design for evaluation, incorporating mixed data in a real research ecosystem. Empirical findings provide support for applying the assessment approach and show that a research project’s sustainability depends on several collaboration factors and barriers at the socio-technical, management, operational, and institutional levels. Research results provide valuable insights for managing and improving collaborative efforts in large research groups, by anticipating collaboration issues with actionable and opportune strategies that can enhance the planning process, ecosystem performance, sustainability, research outcomes, and the program’s overall success. As a result, monitoring governance, management, leadership, and social relationships throughout the different phases of a translational research program is crucial in assessing and promoting collaboration.

History and Prospects for the Sustainability and Circularity of the Windowpane Oyster Placuna placenta Fishery in the Philippines

The windowpane oyster Placuna placenta lives in brackish coastal waters and has long been economically important to the Philippines because of its durable and translucent shell, which is used as a glass substitute and material for making windowpanes and handicrafts. There has been considerable degradation of the P. placenta fishery over the past decades. Moreover, there are waste and under-exploited by-products, such as the meat, which though nutritious and edible, currently has a very low value; its use is confined to dishes consumed by families in the fishing community. Historically, there have been instances of excellent practice in terms of regulating the P. placenta fishery, while in recent times, there have been local initiatives to restore this and to develop high-value food products from the meat. These initiatives have, however, never been followed through at a provincial or national level. Research on other molluscs and marine organisms highlights that these contain high-value pharmaceutical products, an unexplored facet of P. placenta. This review compiles evidence to establish the groundwork for an essential and comprehensive multidisciplinary research programme centred around the P. placenta, which would ensure a high value for all parts of the oyster, including those currently discarded. By fostering a sustainable and circular economy within this fishery sector and its associated industry, its economic value would be amplified. This is particularly important for oyster harvesters in the Philippines, who often find themselves on the economic ladder’s lower rungs. By integrating the principles of a circular economy, this initiative would not only aim to uplift the economic prospects of these harvesters, but in doing so would drive the restoration of P. placenta to its former range.

Vegetation of Southern Patagonia in the 1970s – Digitization of a gray‐literature data set as a monitoring baseline in a changing world

AbstractMonitoring vegetation trends against objective baselines is fundamental to quantify the impacts of global change on plant biodiversity. Vegetation plot time series are a gold standard in vegetation monitoring, but such data are missing for many regions. Southern Patagonia is an example of a region strongly impacted by climate change but lacking time series data. Monitoring in this region could benefit from a comparison with vegetation survey data gathered between 1975 and 1979, as part of the multidisciplinary research program “Transecta botánica de la Patagonia austral” (hereafter Transecta). Published in 1985, it contains data on 668 vegetation plots, which were so far inaccessible to most researchers: Transecta has never been reprinted, nor fully digitized, and can only be found in specialized libraries. Here, we created a reproducible workflow, documenting how vegetation plot data from historical sources can be extracted and harmonized. The resulting open‐access database we created fills a major regional gap and provides a needed baseline to assess the impacts of global change on southern Patagonia vegetation. By making these data available, we hope to inspire a new generation of vegetation scientists to resurvey the area and continue the legacy of the pioneer researchers who compiled Transecta.

Better post-operative prediction and management of chronic pain in adults after total knee replacement: the multidisciplinary STAR research programme including RCT

Better post-operative prediction and management of chronic pain in adults after total knee replacement: the multidisciplinary STAR research programme including RCT

Ethics of Climate Change Adaptation—The Case of Torrential Rains in Norway

This article analyses adaptation to climate induced challenges in form of torrential rains hitting urban landscapes in Norway with increased frequency. Specifically, it investigates the influence of the industry structure on ethical challenges when the climate changes. A meta-analysis of the scientific output from a major multi-disciplinary research program is carried out. In addition, the methods include use of expert opinions, literature review and document studies. Climate change adaptation challenges disciplines within civil engineering and natural sciences. Following this, established practices need alteration as specialists face new ethical challenges. Practical climate change adaptation requires the ability to overcome silo mentality among the involved disciplines. Challenges involve acknowledging responsibility, transparency, and information quality. Engineering takes place in an environment of incomplete knowledge. In addition, there is a high degree of decentralised decision-making and directives, and laws and regulations are often lagging after the experienced challenges. Consequently, individual experts experience increased ethical challenges. Systemic circumstances apprehension is necessary for reducing societal risks within climate change adaptation. Both education of engineers and cooperation between specialists from different disciplines is needed to master the altered framework conditions.

Editorial introductions.

Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology was launched in 1989. It is one of a successful series of review journals whose unique format is designed to provide a systematic and critical assessment of the literature as presented in the many primary journals. The field of obstetrics and gynecology is divided into ten sections that are reviewed once a year. Each section is assigned one or more Section Editors. They are the leading authorities in their area, who identify the most important topics at that time. Here we are pleased to introduce the Journal's Section Editors for this issue. SECTION EDITORS Deirdre LyellDeirdre LyellDr Lyell is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Stanford University, USA, where she serves as the Associate Division Director, Director of the Program in Placental Disorders, and Program Director of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship. Dr Lyell is a member of the Child Health Research Institute at Stanford, the March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center at Stanford, and conducts research in clinical obstetrics. From 2013–2016 she served as an alternate P.I. to the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit (MFMU) Network, USA. In 2010 she formed the Program in Placental Disorders at Stanford, a multidisciplinary patient care and research program for women with placenta accreta and cofounded a Placenta Accreta Special Interest Group that meets annually at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine meeting. Dr Lyell earned a Bachelors of Arts and Sciences in History and Biology from Stanford University and a Medical Degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine, USA. She completed residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Brigham and Women's and Massachusetts General Hospitals, USA, and fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine at Stanford University. She is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in obstetrics and gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine. Mark BoddyMark BoddyDr Mark Boddy received his bachelor's degree from Georgia State University, USA. He received his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia prior to completing a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Atlanta Medical Center, USA. He subsequently completed a fellowship in maternal fetal medicine at The George Washington University School of Medicine, USA. He practiced for 17 years in a hospital-based setting while also serving as a Regional Perinatal Director for the State of Georgia. Currently, Dr Boddy is an Associate Clinical Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, USA and the Medical Director of the Stanford Children's Healthcare Perinatal Diagnostic Center in Salinas, California, USA. His interests include prenatal diagnosis, improving quality of care and patient safety. Martha RodeMartha RodeDr Martha Rode received her bachelor's degree in biology at Harvard University, USA, before attending medical school at the University of California, Los Angeles, USA. She then completed residency and a maternal-fetal medicine fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, USA. She has since worked in both academic and hospital-based practices on both the East Coast and Northern California Bay Area in USA. She is currently a Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford Medical School, USA, serving as the Medical Director of the Perinatal Diagnostic Center in Santa Cruz. Her interests include perinatal diagnosis and high-risk obstetrics as well as community physician outreach and continued education. Jane ChuehJane ChuehDr Jane Chueh received her bachelor's degrees in biology and humanities at Stanford University, USA. She attended medical school at University of California San Diego, USA and completed her residency at University of Washington, USA and her fellowships in maternal fetal medicine and clinical genetics at University of California San Francisco, USA. She has worked in both academic and hospital-based practices in the Northern California Bay Area. Currently she is a Clinical Professor at Stanford Medical School, serving as the Director of Prenatal Diagnosis and Therapy at Stanford Children's Health. She enjoys practicing prenatal diagnosis and high-risk obstetrics, collaborating in research projects related to ultrasound and simulation teaching, and mentoring Stanford undergraduates and medical students. Amy VoedischAmy VoedischAmy J Voedisch, MD, MSc, NCMP is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Division of Family Planning, in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stanford University, USA. Dr Voedisch attended the Mayo Medical School in Rochester, Minnesota, USA, and completed her OB-GYN residency at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara, USA. She then went on to a fellowship in family planning at Stanford University, becoming an expert in reproductive health services, with a focus on increasing access to contraception in underserved international areas. She also earned her master's degree in clinical sciences research during her fellowship. Dr Voedisch is an expert in perimenopause and menopause and is a North American Menopause Society Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP).

Environmental Features of Vernacular Architecture: The Case of Cyprus

The sustainability of vernacular dwellings is closely connected with the fulfilment of the daily needs of the inhabitants, as well as the incorporation of multiple environmental features into their design. These environmental features ensure a climate responsive approach and improve the thermal performance of the dwellings. The vernacular architecture of Cyprus follows the main principles of vernacular architecture in the eastern Mediterranean region as a whole, and thus it is considered as a typical case study, suitable for in-depth investigation. The research findings presented here are an overview of systematic research carried out over the last ten years at the University of Cyprus, mainly through two multidisciplinary research programmes. Specifically, various environmental aspects were thoroughly investigated, starting from the selection and investigation of rural and urban settlements in different climatic areas (urban scale), moving to the building scale and to the selection of a representative number of vernacular dwellings for qualitative, as well as quantitative investigation. Following this, the research focuses on the different spaces within the dwellings (such as courtyards, semi-open spaces and subterranean areas), as well as on various passive strategies (such as ventilation and lighting), ending with the investigation of the thermal behaviour of the traditional building materials used for the erection of the aforementioned dwellings. The research reveals the necessity for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of vernacular architecture through a multicriteria process, and indicates a methodology that can be implemented in other similar cases especially around the Mediterranean area.

Giving a New Status to a Dyes Collection: A Contribution to the Chromotope Project

Chromotope, the 19th Century Chromatic Turn, is a multidisciplinary ERC research programme that focuses on the “chromatic turn” of the 1860s in France and England, following the invention of the first synthetic dyes. This project, based on a partnership between Sorbonne University (PI: Charlotte Ribeyrol), Oxford University, and the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers (Cnam), investigates how this turn led to new ways of thinking about colour in art, literature, history, and science throughout the second half of the 19th century. One of the key aims of this research is to reappraise the role played by the Cnam in the dissemination of knowledge about synthetic dyes, from the creation in 1852 of the first chair in dyeing and printing until the Interwar period, when a collection of dyes including more than 2500 references, obtained from major European firms, was formed. A full inventory based on the description of each container has just been made together with a bibliographical research. Nevertheless, 2% of the containers are unlabeled and the reattribution of their composition is the main goal of our study. In order to set an appropriate analysis protocol to identify these orphan containers, a preliminary work was conducted on a random selection of identified dyes. For this purpose, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used on 13 samples from different dye classes. The relevance of this protocol will be discussed for the identification of unknown compounds.

Modern Languages Research: Towards a Challenge-Based Interdisciplinary Model

This article draws on the experience of the multi-institution, multidisciplinary research programme Multilingualism: Empowering Individuals, Transforming Societies, funded by the AHRC under its Open World Research Initiative, to argue that research in Modern Languages has important things to say about key issues of our time. This implies a challenge-based model for research conducted in an interdisciplinary framework. As Klein and Newell (1998) argue, interdisciplinary studies address topics that are too broad or complex to be dealt with by a single discipline but, drawing on disciplinary perspectives, seek to integrate their insights into a more comprehensive perspective. The approach is illustrated through four case studies relating to conflict and peacebuilding, linguistic rights and inequalities, health and wellbeing, and social cohesion.