bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing f(R) and scale-dependent gravities
Authors: Calzada Pelayo V. , Rincón Ángel , Bargueño Pedro
Published: December 2023

In this work, we prove that every f(R) gravity can be represented as a scale-dependent one, but not every scale-dependent gravity can be represented in the f(R) framework. Therefore, the f(R) formalism is strictly included in the scale-dependent approach. This scale-dependent representation of f(R) gravity allows for a novel approach toward both theories. In particular, we obtain a novel dynamical characterization of light rings for f(R(r)) theories and we have shown that some previous solutions of f(R) theories correspond to solutions of scale-dependent gravity. Finally, new solutions to scale-dependent gravity are identified with the help of the f(R) representation.
Pole-skipping of gravitational waves in the backgrounds of four-dimensional massive black holes
Authors: Grozdanov Sašo , Vrbica Mile
Published: December 2023

Pole-skipping is a property of gravitational waves dictated by their behaviour at horizons of black holes. It stems from the inability to unambiguously impose ingoing boundary conditions at the horizon at an infinite discrete set of Fourier modes. The phenomenon has been best understood, when such a description exists, in terms of dual holographic (AdS/CFT) correlation functions that take the value of ‘0/0’ at these special points. In this work, we investigate details of pole-skipping purely from the point of view of classical gravity in 4d massive black hole geometries with flat, spherical and hyperbolic horizons, and with an arbitrary cosmological constant. We show that pole-skipping points naturally fall into two categories: the algebraically special points and a set of pole-skipping points that is common to the even and odd channels of perturbations. Our analysis utilises and generalises (to arbitrary maximally symmetric horizon topology and cosmological constant) the ‘integrable’ structure of the Darboux transformations, which relate the master field equations that describe the evolution of gravitational perturbations in the two channels. Finally, we provide new insights into a number of special cases: spherical black holes, asymptotically Anti-de Sitter black branes and pole-skipping at the cosmological horizon in de Sitter space.
No long hair behaviors of ultra-compact objects
Authors: Liu Guohua , Peng Yan
Published: December 2023

We investigate distributions of matter fields outside spherically symmetric ultra-compact objects with null circular orbits in the asymptotically flat background. Based on the dominant energy and the non-negative trace conditions, we prove the existence of effective radius of matter field hairs outside horizonless ultra-compact objects. We also analytically find a no long hair behavior, which states that the effective radius of matter field hairs cannot extend beyond the outermost null circular orbit of horizonless ultra-compact objects.
Spatial Decomposition and Aggregation for Attention in Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Zhu Meng , Min Weidong , Xiang Hongyue , Zha Cheng , Huang Zheng , Li Longfei , Fu Qiyan
Published: December 2023

Channel attention has been shown to improve the performance of deep convolutional neural networks efficiently. Channel attention adaptively recalibrates the importance of each channel, determining what to attend to. However, channel attention only encodes inter-channel information but neglects the importance of positional information. Positional information is crucial in determining where to attend to. To address this issue, we propose a novel channel-spatial attention method named Spatial-Decomposition-Aggregation Attention (SDAA) method. First, a high-axis spatial direction is decomposed into multiple low-axis spatial directions. Then, a shared transformation sub-unit establishes attention in each low-axis space direction. Next, all the low-axis attention masks are aggregated into a high-axis attention mask. Finally, the generated high-axis attention mask is fused into the input features, thus enhancing the input features. Essentially, our method is a divide-and-conquer process. Experimental results demonstrate that our SDAA method outperforms the existing channel-spatial attention methods.
CuO:V2O5 driven alterations in dielectric, ferroelectric and structural properties of Barium Zirconate Titanate ceramics
Authors: Lather Aryan Singh , Poonia Kanika , Kundu R. S. , Ahlawat Neetu , Nehra Anuj , Kaur Shubhpreet
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on the properties of Vanadium and Copper co-doped Barium Zirconate Titanate (BZT) for potential technological applications. Various doping ratios of CuO:V2O5 were used to synthesize the materials, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed a tetragonal phase in all samples. The grain density and dimensions decreased with higher concentrations of V2O5 and CuO. FTIR spectra confirmed the compositional structure and bonding of the samples. The impedance analysis indicated that higher doping concentrations facilitated charge conduction at grain boundaries. Dielectric relaxation was studied using the Havriliak–Negami model and electrical modulus behavior was analyzed. Activation energy values from Arrhenius fitting matched those from impedance data, suggesting the same type of charge carriers. The study revealed that elevated levels of V concentration induced charge carriers to exhibit hopping behavior, thereby enhancing conductivity. Conversely, higher Cu concentration impeded hopping, leading to a swift rise in activation energy.
NEPTUNE
: A Comprehensive Framework for Managing Serverless Functions at the Edge
Authors: Baresi Luciano , Hu Davide Yi Xian , Quattrocchi Giovanni , Terracciano Luca
Published: December 2023

Applications that are constrained by low-latency requirements can hardly be executed on cloud infrastructures, given the high network delay required to reach remote servers. Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is the reference architecture for executing applications on nodes that are located close to users (i.e., at the
edge
of the network). This way, the network overhead is reduced but new challenges emerge. The resources available on edge nodes are limited, workloads fluctuate since users can rapidly change location, and complex tasks are becoming widespread (e.g., machine learning inference). To address these issues, this article presents
NEPTUNE
, a serverless-based framework that automates the management of large-scale MEC infrastructures. In particular,
NEPTUNE
provides (i) the placement of serverless functions on MEC nodes according to users’ location, (ii) the resolution of resource contention scenarios by avoiding that single nodes be saturated, and (iii) the dynamic allocation of CPUs and GPUs to meet foreseen execution times. To assess
NEPTUNE
, we built a prototype based on K3S, an edge-dedicated version of Kubernetes, and executed a comprehensive set of experiments. Results show that
NEPTUNE
obtains a significant reduction in terms of response time, network overhead, and resource consumption compared with five state-of-the-art solutions.
Covert-channels in FPGA-enabled SmartSSDs
Authors: Trochatos Theodoros , Etim Anthony , Szefer Jakub
Published: December 2023

Cloud computing providers today offer access to a variety of devices, which users can rent and access remotely in a shared setting. Among these devices are SmartSSDs, which are solid-state disks (SSD) augmented with an FPGA, enabling users to instantiate custom circuits within the FPGA, including potentially malicious circuits for power and temperature measurement. Normally, cloud users have no remote access to power and temperature data, but with SmartSSDs they could abuse the FPGA component to instantiate circuits to learn this information. Additionally, custom power waster circuits can be instantiated within the FPGA. This paper shows for the first time that by leveraging ring oscillator sensors and power wasters, numerous covert-channels in FPGA-enabled SmartSSDs could be used to transmit information. This work presents two channels in single-tenant setting (SmartSSD is used by one user at a time) and two channels in multi-tenant setting (FPGA and SSD inside SmartSSD is shared by different users). The presented covert channels can reach close to 100% accuracy. Meanwhile, bandwidth of the channels can be easily scaled by cloud users renting more SmartSSDs as the bandwidth of the covert channels is proportional to number of SmartSSD used.
Report on the Dagstuhl Seminar on Frontiers of Information Access Experimentation for Research and Education
Authors: Bauer Christine , Carterette Ben , Ferro Nicola , Fuhr Norbert , Beel Joeran , Breuer Timo , Clarke Charles L. A. , Crescenzi Anita , Demartini Gianluca , Di Nunzio Giorgio Maria , Dietz Laura , Faggioli Guglielmo , Ferwerda Bruce , Fröbe Maik , Hagen Matthias , Hanbury Allan , Hauff Claudia , Jannach Dietmar , Kando Noriko , Kanoulas Evangelos , Knijnenburg Bart P. , Kruschwitz Udo , Li Meijie , Maistro Maria , Michiels Lien , Papenmeier Andrea , Potthast Martin , Rosso Paolo , Said Alan , Schaer Philipp , Seifert Christin , Spina Damiano , Stein Benno , Tintarev Nava , Urbano Julián , Wachsmuth Henning , Willemsen Martijn C. , Zobel Justin
Published: December 2023

This report documents the program and the outcomes of Dagstuhl Seminar 23031 "Frontiers of Information Access Experimentation for Research and Education", which brought together 38 participants from 12 countries. The seminar addressed technology-enhanced information access (information retrieval, recommender systems, natural language processing) and specifically focused on developing more responsible experimental practices leading to more valid results, both for research as well as for scientific education.

The seminar featured a series of long and short talks delivered by participants, who helped in setting a common ground and in letting emerge topics of interest to be explored as the main output of the seminar. This led to the definition of five groups which investigated challenges, opportunities, and next steps in the following areas:
reality check, i.e. conducting real-world studies, human-machine-collaborative relevance judgment frameworks, overcoming methodological challenges in information retrieval and recommender systems through awareness and education, results-blind reviewing, and guidance for authors.

Date:
15--20 January 2023.

Website:
https://www.dagstuhl.de/23031.
Improvement in Structural and Electrochemical Properties of VZnS@ZnO for Asymmetric Supercapacitors and Electrochemical Sensors for Glucose Detection
Authors: Haq Muhammad Ahsan Ul , Imran Muhammad , Afzal Amir Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Waqas , Mumtaz Sohail , Albaqami Munirah D. , Ahmad Zubair
Published: December 2023

Electrochemical sensors have attracted scientific interest because of their fast response, high sensitivity, low power loss and stability. Hydrothermally synthesis of porous VZnS and VZnS@ZnO nanocomposite prepared for supercapacitor electrode. This work aimed to increase the electrochemical efficiency of synthesized VZnS@ZnO nanostructures under electrochemical examination. The integrated structure of the VZnS@ZnO anode provides a significant amount of potential sites for divalent ion trapping and increases charge transfer kinetics. Consequently, the specific capacities of the VZnS and VZnS@ZnO anodes are 564.09 C g−1 and 1025.39 C g−1, respectively. VZnS@ZnO and activated carbon (AC) are components in a supercapattery device configured as VZnS@ZnO//AC. Supercapattery device retains the highest 35.94 Wh kg−1 energy density and an excellent 2512.54 W kg−1 power density. According to the charge storage method study, the VZnS@ZnO//AC supercapattery stores charge via adsorption-desorption and Faradic processes. Besides, the VZnS@ZnO//AC hybrid device is used as an electrochemical sensor for glucose detection. The device showed a high sensitivity against the glucose and detected up to a small value. This research paves the way for high-performance VZnS@ZnO electrodes and expands our understanding of charge storage and electrolytic sensors to identify glucose.
Exertional heat stroke causes long-term skeletal muscle epigenetic reprogramming, altered gene expression, and impaired satellite cell function in mice
Authors: Murray Kevin O. , Brant Jason O. , Spradlin Ray A. , Thome Trace , Laitano Orlando , Ryan Terence E. , Riva Alberto , Kladde Michael P. , Clanton Thomas L.
Published: December 2023

Exertional heat stroke (EHS) in mice induces long-term molecular and functional changes in limb muscle that could reflect a loss of “resilience” to further stress. The phenotype was characterized by altered caffeine sensitivity and suppressed satellite cell proliferative potential. This was accompanied by changes in gene expression and DNA methylation consistent with ongoing muscle remodeling and stress adaptation. We propose that EHS may induce a prolonged vulnerability of skeletal muscle to further stress or injury.
Transcriptional response of the heart to vagus nerve stimulation
Authors: Kellett Daniel O. , Aziz Qadeer , Humphries Jonathan D. , Korsak Alla , Braga Alice , Gutierrez Del Arroyo Ana , Crescente Marilena , Tinker Andrew , Ackland Gareth L. , Gourine Alexander V.
Published: December 2023

This experimental animal study investigated the immediate transcriptional response of the ventricular myocardium to selective stimulation of vagal efferent activity. Vagal stimulation induced significant transcriptional changes in the heart involving the pathways controlling autonomic signaling, inflammation, fibrosis, and hypertrophy. This study provides the first direct evidence that myocardial gene expression is modulated by the activity of the autonomic nervous system.
Transmission Routes and a New Freshwater Crustacean Host for Infectious Precocity Virus (IPV)
Authors: Xu Wenyan , Zhao Caiyuan , Pan Xiaoyi , He Xinyi , Liu Xiaoli , Hou Jianan , Pang Jianhu
Published: December 2023

Macrobrachium rosenbergii holds significant importance in aquaculture within tropical and subtropical regions globally. An infection called infectious precocity virus disease (IPVD), caused by infectious precocity virus (IPV), has emerged in M. rosenbergii in China and causes significant economic losses. The diseased M. rosenbergii presents with the characteristics of sexual precocity and slow growth. Elaborating the route of transmission and host range of IPV is necessary to prevent the disease. Transmission of IPV to healthy M. rosenbergii can occur through the ingestion of IPV-infected tissue, immersion of viral filtrate, cohabitation with infected M. rosenbergii, or water-borne transmission in contaminated environment. Results showed that fertilized eggs and different growth and development stages (larvae Ⅰ–Ⅵ, postlarvae, juveniles, and adult prawns) from infected M. rosenbergii were negative for IPV, indicating that vertical transmissions did not occur. The results of artificial infection experiments showed that M. nipponense tested positive for the presence of IPV, but not in fishes Carassius auratus, Pangasius bocourti, Micropterus salmoides, and Oreochromis mossambicus, and crabs Scylla paramamosain and Eriocheir sinensis. IPV could cause slow growth in M. nipponense and mainly infected the second pereiopod, brain, eyes, and gills of M. nipponense. M. nipponense was found to be a new freshwater crustacean host for IPV. From December 2019 to March 2022, 260 M. nipponense samples in four regions were collected, including 230 M. nipponense IPV-positive samples according to nested PCR and 40 M. nipponense IPV-negative samples according to nested PCR. These findings could aid in preventing and managing IPV infections in crustaceans.
Validation of COPD Population Screener Questionnaire in Chinese Population: A National Multicenter Study
Authors: Zhan Zijie , Ma Yiming , Chen Yahong , Zhang Jing , Li Wen , He Zhiyi , Xie Jungang , Zhao Haijin , Xu Anping , Peng Kun , Wang Gang , Zeng Qingping , Yang Ting , Chen Yan , Wang Chen
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is highly prevalent and underdiagnosed worldwide. The validity and reliability of COPD Population Screening (COPD-PS) questionnaire are not properly known in a large-sample Chinese population. Methods: This is a national multicenter prospective study that enrolled 1,824 outpatients from 12 hospital sites in China. Scores of the Chinese version of COPD-PS questionnaire, demographic data, and clinical information were collected. The validity and the test-retest reliability were evaluated. Results: 1,824 participants were involved in this study, and 404 (22.1%) were diagnosed with COPD. The overall area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) for COPD-PS questionnaire was 0.761 (95% CI: 0.734–0.787). A cut-off point of 4 was recommended, corresponding to a sensitivity of 74.50% and a specificity of 64.37%. The COPD-PS questionnaire showed an overall Pearson’s correlation of 0.88. Conclusions: The COPD-PS questionnaire can be used in screening COPD patients from the general Chinese population with respiratory symptoms.
Changing Patterns of Stroke and Subtypes Attributable to High Systolic Blood Pressure in China From 1990 to 2019
Authors: Gao Ying , Liu Kangding , Fang Shaokuan
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

It is unknown whether high systolic blood pressure had a similar effect on the disease burden of stroke subtypes. The aim of our study is to compare the long-term trends of stroke subtypes and sex groups attributable to high systolic blood pressure in China from 1990 to 2019.

METHODS:

Data about the age-standardized mortality rate and the age-standardized disability-adjusted life-year rate of stroke subtypes attributable to high systolic blood pressure in China were extracted in GBD (Global Burden of Disease) 2019. The trends in the age-standardized mortality rate and the age-standardized disability-adjusted life-year rate were calculated using the liner regression and age-period-cohort method, adjusted for age, period, and cohort.

RESULTS:

The estimated annual percentage change for mortality of stroke attributable to high systolic blood pressure was different from subtypes, with an estimated annual percentage change and 95% CI of 0.56 (0.37–0.74) for ischemic stroke (IS), −1.52 (−1.97 to −1.07) for intracerebral hemorrhage, and −7.02 (−7.86 to −6.17) for subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The curve of the net drifts showed a downward trend for intracerebral hemorrhage and SAH, but that showed a stable trend for IS. The curve of local drifts showed a slow upward trend with age for IS, a slow downward trend for intracerebral hemorrhage, and a sharp downward trend for SAH. The drift curves showed different trends for males and females. The proportion of stroke mortality in young males was gradually increasing. The cohort rate ratio varied by subtypes, with the greatest decline for SAH, a slight decrease for intracerebral hemorrhage, and a slight increase for IS. The period rate ratio had decreased over the past 3 decades, with the greatest decline for SAH and the weakest decrease for IS. Moreover, both the period and cohort rate ratios for IS mortality due to high systolic blood pressure in males have increased significantly over the past 3 decades.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results provided strong evidence that the disease burden of stroke attributable to high systolic blood pressure varied by subtypes and sex in China from 1990 to 2019. The age-standardized mortality rate and the age-standardized disability-adjusted life-year rate decreased for hemorrhagic stroke but increased for IS. Males had a higher mortality and exposure risk but a slighter decreasing trend than females. Our study suggested that greater attention should be given to the prevention of the burden of IS attributable to systolic blood pressure in China, especially for males.
Domain-Independent Lifelong Problem Solving Through Distributed ALife Actors
Authors: Hodjat Babak , Shahrzad Hormoz , Miikkulainen Risto
Published: December 2023

A domain-independent problem-solving system based on principles of Artificial Life is introduced. In this system, DIAS, the input and output dimensions of the domain are laid out in a spatial medium. A population of actors, each seeing only part of this medium, solves problems collectively in it. The process is independent of the domain and can be implemented through different kinds of actors. Through a set of experiments on various problem domains, DIAS is shown able to solve problems with different dimensionality and complexity, to require no hyperparameter tuning for new problems, and to exhibit lifelong learning, that is, to adapt rapidly to run-time changes in the problem domain, and to do it better than a standard, noncollective approach. DIAS therefore demonstrates a role for ALife in building scalable, general, and adaptive problem-solving systems.
Information literacy: Did Alvin Toffler beat Paul Zurkowski to it?
Authors: Shenton Andrew
Published: December 2023

Paul Zurkowski is often considered the “father” of the term, “information literacy” (IL). There were, however, other authors who, at a similar time, were writing about concepts we now consider fundamental to the nature of IL. A work of particular significance is Alvin Toffler’s Future Shock. In this classic text – better known beyond information science than within it – Toffler addresses major themes such as the importance of evaluating information, the need to construct sense from the material we access and the dangers of “information overload”. He is concerned, too, with the more general requirement that, increasingly, people must “learn how to learn”. Personal experience has shown this author that it is possible to create a tool for information users from the closely related ideas of Zurkowski and Toffler, and that each writer recognises independently that the skills associated with the traditional literacies are insufficient if an individual is to function effectively in modern society. Whilst Zurkowski is cited with greater frequency in discussions on IL, it may be Toffler who has done more to highlight to a wider readership the value of information skills in an ever-changing world. Perhaps Zurkowski’s biggest achievement lies in providing a memorable two-word summarising label to his field of interest; it is one that has endured and remains pertinent today, some fifty years on.
Giving voice to regional Australian academic librarians
Authors: Goodwin Annette , Afzal Waseem
Published: December 2023

Academic librarians deliver information literacy instruction (ILI) to students, engage with a range of stakeholders, and work in a range of learning environments that are continually changing. While past research has focused on the perceptions of librarians regarding their role in ILI, this has not been a significant focus of research in the Australian higher education context. This study set out to explore the perceptions of six practising academic librarians at a regional Australian university, seeking to understand their perceptions of information literacy (IL), their role in ILI and the challenges they face in this role. The participants did not have a consensus on the nature of IL, despite having a clear definition from the institution. Librarians felt they had both an educative and supportive role and that they brought expertise and authority to ILI. Librarians note­­d that their ILI supported the broader function of the university to meet internal policies and external regulatory requirements. Librarians suggested that an integrated approach to ILI at the institution would improve librarians’ agency in supporting students. The analysis of the findings led to the development of a model for the delivery of effective ILI for this institution. The findings of this study contribute to the existing body of IL research by (a) giving voice to the views of academic librarians working in a regional Australian university, and (b) highlighting the challenges that academic librarians face when delivering ILI at their institution.
Artificial intelligence literacy in libraries
Authors: Andersdotter Karolina
Published: December 2023

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) poses challenges as well as opportunities for anyone or anything dealing with digital technologies, including libraries. Libraries and librarians have a twofold challenge in that they simultaneously must consider AI applications in library operations as well as AI skills and knowledge as part of the information literacy (IL) training they provide for their users, whether it be in IL programmes or informal learning contexts.
This study follows a learning circle in which 123 librarians in Sweden did a pre-existing online course about AI and met up at regular intervals to discuss its contents in a library perspective. The increased knowledge about AI and libraries and the confidence to pass on this knowledge to library users is measured through a self-efficacy test conducted on three separate occasions during the learning circle. The result from the test shows an increase in AI knowledge during the learning circle, although the small sample makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. A focus group from the learning circle was interviewed to get an in-depth understanding of librarians’ core topics of concern and excitement regarding AI and libraries. The results from the interview showed that there was a mainly positive view of AI in relation to making library collections more accessible and easier to manage, while there was more concern regarding AI’s impact on the media landscape and how this could impact library users. Introspectively, the focus group perceived challenges in including AI when teaching IL to users as well as in the lack of AI skills among colleagues that could make it difficult to apply or discuss AI in relation to the workplace and the library profession.
This paper presents a method of increasing AI knowledge among librarians and library staff. It highlights topics relevant for several library types when faced with the development and application of AI in libraries and in society that based on the results of the study are difficult to escape. The insights may prove useful when planning educational endeavours and when considering library development and strategy related to AI and their implications for libraries and library users.
Botryosphaeriaceae on palms—a new species of Neodeightonia, N. chamaeropicola, and new records from diseased foliage of ornamental palms in Portugal
Authors: PEREIRA DIANA S. , PHILLIPS ALAN J. L.
Published: December 2023

The Botryosphaeriaceae is the largest family in Botryosphaeriales and currently comprises 22 genera of important endophytes, saprobes and plant pathogens. Most botryosphaeriaceous species have a cosmopolitan distribution, occurring on a wide range of woody hosts. Nonetheless, in many hosts, including palms (Arecaceae), the complex of associated Botryosphaeriaceae taxa is as yet unknown. The present study aimed to identify the botryosphaeriaceous species associated with foliar lesions of ornamental palms in Lisbon, Portugal. Twenty-nine Botryosphaeriaceae taxa were isolated from seven different palm species and identified based on both morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Six genera were detected: Botryosphaeria, Diplodia, Dothiorella, Neodeightonia, Neofusicoccum and Sardiniella. A new species of Neodeightonia, N. chamaeropicola, is introduced. Three botryosphaeriaceous species are reduced to synonymy. Thirteen new plant host-fungus associations are reported, while four new geographical records are noted for Portugal. A synopsis of accepted and phylogenetically validated Botryosphaeriaceae taxa reported from palms worldwide is presented. A total of 31 botryosphaeriaceous species have been currently reported from Arecaceae hosts, and many of them are associated with disease symptoms. This illustrates that more systematic studies are needed to examine the complex of Botryosphaeriaceae taxa associated with palms and determine their potential pathogenicity.
Revision of the genus Conicera Meigen (Diptera, Phoridae) from China
Authors: LIU GUANG-CHUN
Published: December 2023

The genus Conicera Meigen from China is revised. 35 species are recorded, of which 19 are new to science: C. obtusifinis sp. nov., C. petalina sp. nov., C. maculifemoris sp. nov., C. forcipis sp. nov., C. ancoraria sp. nov., C. angusta sp. nov., C. tortuosa sp. nov., C. dentisparsa sp. nov., C. convallis sp. nov., C. chayuensis sp. nov., C. triangularis sp. nov., C. margiflucta sp. nov., C. securiclata sp. nov., C. palmata sp. nov., C. marginata sp. nov., C. denticulata sp. nov., C. microspinulosa sp. nov., C. grandicaudata sp. nov. and C. obtusidentis sp. nov. 5 species are recorded for the first time in China: C. gracilis Michailovskaya, C. pacifica Michailovskaya, C. similis (Haliday), C. tibialis Schmitz and C. schnittmanni Schmitz. All known species are redescribed and illustrated. A key to species from China is presented.
Four new species of the genus Omaliopsis Jeannel, 1940 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Omaliinae: Omaliini) of China
Authors: SHAVRIN ALEXEY V.
Published: December 2023

Four new closely related species of the genus Omaliopsis Jeannel, 1940 (Omaliinae) from China are described and illustrated: O. fraterna sp. n. (Sichuan, Yunnan), O. hlavaci sp. n. (Sichuan), O. obliquesignata sp. n. (Shaanxi), and O. smetanai sp. n. (Sichuan, Shaanxi, Yunnan). An updated key to all Asian species of the genus is provided.
Is the North Atlantic Geodia barretti (Porifera, Tetractinellida, Geodiidae) present on the Southwest Indian Ridge?
Authors: PERIASAMY RENGAIYAN , CÁRDENAS PACO , KURIAN PALAYIL JOHN , INGOLE BABAN , SAMAAI TOUFIEK
Published: December 2023

There are currently 163 species of Geodia Lamarck, 1815 described worldwide, many of which are found in deep waters, but none of which have been recorded from the Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR). Spicule morphology and barcodes (Folmer COI, 28S (C2–D2), partial 18S) suggest that a specimen of Geodia collected on the SWIR at a depth of 2236 m is closely comparable to Geodia barretti Bowerbank, 1858. Geodia barretti is the most studied and thus well-known deep-sea Geodia species, due to its wide North Atlantic distribution and key role in boreal sponge grounds. This unexpected and markedly disjunct record would extend the distribution range of this species considerably, consequently challenging our knowledge about interoceanic deep-sea sponges.
A new species of the genus Mongolotettix Rehn, 1928 from Henan, China (Acrididae, Acridoidea, Orthoptera)
Authors: WANG SHENGNAN , DAI LI , YIN ZHAN
Published: December 2023

A new species of the genus Mongolotettix Rehn, 1928 from Henan, China is described in this paper. The new species Mongolotettix. jigongshanensis sp. nov. is allied to M. hubeiensis Zheng et al, 2017, but differs from latter by vertical diameter of eye 2.0 times horizontal diameter in male, cubital vein of tegmen reaching the apex in male, epiphallus with distinct projection on both inner sides, vertical diameter of eye 1.5 times the horizontal diameter and length of subocular furrow in female and tegmina of female reaching the middle of 2nd abdominal tergite. Type specimens are deposited in the Shanghai Entomological Museum, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
Strong Extratropical Impact on Observed ENSO
Authors: Liu Tianying , Liu Zhengyu , Zhao Yuchu , Zhang Shaoqing
Published: December 2023

Previous studies have indicated that the extratropics can influence ENSO via specific processes. However, it is still unclear to what extent ENSO is influenced by the extratropics in observation. Now we assess this issue by applying the regional data assimilation (RDA) approach in an advanced model, the GFDL CM2.1. Our study confirms a strong extratropical impact on observed ENSO. Quantitatively, the extratropical atmospheric variability poleward of 20° explains 56% of the observed variance of ENSO and greatly influences ∼67% of observed El Niño events during 1969–2008. This extratropical impact is still significant even as far as poleward of 30°. Furthermore, the impact from the southern extratropics is slightly stronger than that from the northern extratropics, partly caused by the Pacific ITCZ location north of the equator and different mixed-layer depth along the northern Pacific meridional mode (NPMM) and the southern Pacific meridional mode (SPMM). Our study further shows that all of three super El Niño events, those in 1972/73, 1982/83, and 1997/98, are influenced greatly by both hemispheric extratropics, with NPMM and SPMM interfering constructively, while most weak and moderate El Niño events are triggered by only one hemispheric extratropics, with NPMM and SPMM interfering destructively. Besides the extratropical Pacific influence on ENSO via NPMM/SPMM, the extratropics also has a potential impact on ENSO by influencing other tropical oceans and then by interbasin interactions.
Understanding and Prospect of Identity Construction in ASEAN Integration
Authors: Rattanasevee Pattharapong
Published: December 2023

This article aims to provide insights into the concept of collective identity within the context of ASEAN integration. It delves into the transformation of Southeast Asia, which has shifted from a region under the dominance of European colonial powers to one that seeks to establish its unique identity and chart its own course. Additionally, it underscores the pivotal role played by collective identity in the process of integrating Southeast Asia while exploring the factors influencing its formation. In addition to theoretical exploration, this article posits that ASEAN’s collective identity, to some extent, finds resonance among elites, diplomats and technocrats but remains less prevalent among the general ASEAN population. Consequently, this article suggests the need for the development of a transnational mechanism or policy that facilitates and encourages the flow of people and information across borders. ASEAN should also consider reinterpreting its norms, promoting educational initiatives and fostering greater engagement with its citizens.
Designing teacher leadership for school improvement
Authors: Henry Wesley L.C. , VanGronigen Bryan A. , Wronowski Meredith L. , Olive James L.
Published: December 2023

While the demands of teaching continue to escalate, teacher development has changed relatively little over time, leaving many of today’s teachers feeling underprepared, overwhelmed, or demoralized with few opportunities to make real change. Teacher leadership holds promise for both addressing challenges within schools and empowering teachers. Wesley L.C. Henry, Bryan A. VanGronigen, Meredith L. Wronowski, and James L. Olive highlight how a large urban school district in the United States created, resourced, and implemented a program to develop a corps of teacher leaders who used what they were learning to analyze and critique local school improvement plans. They then presented their ideas to administrators and collaborated with their colleagues to implement more responsive improvement efforts.
Structures for continuous improvement in principal preparation
Authors: Coviello James , Birringer-Haig Joan I. , Aquino Katherine C.
Published: December 2023

The requisite knowledge and skills of principals are in a constant state of flux. Principal preparation programs need to proactively create systems and structures for continuous improvement and create pathways for information-sharing in order to remain responsive to the needs of local districts. James Coviello, Joan I. Birringer-Haig, and Katherine C. Aquino share how their university has created structures for continual improvement that principal preparation programs can use to in ensure leaders are prepared to face the dynamic tempo of change.
Reducing harm for the LGBTQ+ community
Authors: Pearson Ferial , Gill Steven
Published: December 2023

Despite progress in recent years, members of the LGBTQ+ community remain underrepresented and underserved in the school system. Ferial Pearson and Steven Gill draw on research literature and their own experiences as out queer educators to recommend a set of actions educators can take to reduce harm to members of these communities in school. They call for explicit safe/brave spaces and school cultures, support for LGBTQ+ educators, greater representation in school curricula, and professional development for teachers. Current research shows the benefits of these approaches, but more research is needed to learn what school-level practices and policy changes will be most beneficial to students in different regions and with different intersecting identities.
Interstate Mobility of People With Diagnosed HIV in the United States, 2011-2019
Authors: Okello Amanda , Song Ruiguang , Hall H. Irene , Dailey André , Satcher Johnson Anna
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Assessing mobility among people with HIV is an important consideration when measuring HIV incidence, prevalence, and the care continuum in the United States. Our aims were to measure mobility among people with HIV compared with the general population and to examine factors associated with migration among people with HIV.

Methods:

We calculated state-to-state move-in and move-out migration rates for 2011 through 2019 using National HIV Surveillance System data for people with HIV and using US Census data for the general population. For people with HIV, we also assessed the association between migration and HIV care outcomes.

Results:

From 2011 through 2019, the US general population had stable migration, whereas migration rates among people with HIV fluctuated and were higher than among the general population. Among people with HIV, migration rates in 2019 were higher among people assigned male sex at birth versus female sex at birth, among people aged ≤24 years versus ≥25 years, among people with HIV infection attributed to male-to-male sexual contact versus other transmission categories, and among non-Hispanic Other people (ie, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, or multiple races) versus Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White people. Receipt of HIV medical care (90.3% vs 75.5%) and achieving viral suppression (72.1% vs 65.3%) were higher among people with HIV who migrated versus those who did not.

Conclusions:

People with HIV in the United States are more mobile than the general population. Determining the mobility of people with HIV can help with strategic allocation of HIV prevention and care resources.
Equity Work Among Accredited Health Departments in the United States, 2015-2021
Authors: Lang Britt , Kronstadt Jessica , Rich Naomi
Published: December 2023

Objectives:

Minimal research has examined the number of health departments conducting work related to equity and/or the kind of work, if any, they are conducting. We examined the relationship between public health accreditation and work related to health equity by analyzing accredited health departments’ responses to a prompt in the Public Health Accreditation Board’s (PHAB’s) annual report.

Methods:

We analyzed self-reported responses from accredited health departments to questions about emerging public health issues and innovations in PHAB’s annual report. We identified themes using a priori and inductive coding.

Results:

A total of 316 health departments submitted an annual report from January 2015 through December 2021. Of those health departments, 283 (89.6%) stated in their annual report that they engaged in work related to health equity, 50 (17.7%) of which provided a narrative about this work. Of those 50 health departments, the most common theme reported was community partnership, described by 23 (46.0%) health departments. The next most reported themes were COVID-19 vaccine access for racially or socioeconomically marginalized communities (n = 17, 34.0%) and programs related to health equity (n = 16, 32.0%).

Conclusions:

We found that most accredited health departments conduct work related to health equity. Further research is needed to examine characteristics that influence a health department’s likelihood of conducting equity work. Models and resources on how health departments, particularly small health departments, can begin equity work would be valuable.
Design of experiment and simulation approach for analyzing automated guided vehicle performance indicators in a production line
Authors: Eduardo Salazar Javier , Tseng Shih-Hsien
Published: December 2023

Several manufacturing industries try to reduce transportation waste using automated material handling systems, which can enhance the transportation of raw materials from one location to another in the production line of a manufacturing area. The issue with transportation and job flow is a critical factor in a production line because some production stations need to wait for the work-in-progress to be delivered. Automated guided vehicle (AGV) transportation needs a setup of traffic control over a factory’s physical infrastructure and simulation. Doing so can help showcase and evaluate possible deficiencies that can be improved in the real job flow scenario of the production line. The design of experiment plays a huge role in finding and explaining variations of information under conditions that are regularly put as a hypothesis to reflect or describe the variation. A simulation model is implemented by adopting simplified AGV parameters. The model development follows the structure of system specification → machine specification → AGV specification → discrete-event simulation model → experimental design → analysis of performance indicators (PIs). To precisely reflect an alternative for evaluating aforementioned issues, this study proposes the model stated above and an analysis that is based on the PIs. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results are chosen to analyze different factors affecting the PIs. Using the factorial ANOVA test results, this study uses one-way and two-way interactions to compare the relationship between job flow time, AGVs, AGV utilization, number of AGVs, and average waiting time.
Pediatric anxiety disorders: Basic concepts for primary care
Authors: Haymaker Christopher M. , Ellwood Stephanie
Published: December 2023

Anxiety disorders in children and adolescents often present in primary care, and many clinicians will need to guide families on treatment. The purpose of this article is to give a brief overview of assessment and treatment principles for clinicians in primary care. Anxiety and its expression are heavily influenced by children’s developmental progression and capabilities. Anxiety disorders have multiple underlying etiologies including temperament, environmental exposure to stressors, and childhood trauma. All anxiety disorders are strengthened by an operant process known as escape conditioning. The most effective treatments for child and adolescent anxiety begin with behavioral‐based interventions including exposure with response prevention (ERP) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Medication can be effective in combination with CBT and ERP, or as a standalone treatment when behavioral interventions are not available. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors have been evaluated by randomized clinical trials for the treatment of childhood anxiety, but most are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. When anxiety is severe and functional impairment is high, referral for psychiatric care and multimodal treatment reduces the likelihood of poor outcomes.
Actinomycosis Confined to the Nasal Septum
Authors: Lee Yong Won , Ko Yeona , Kim Jong Ok , Chung Jihyun
Published: December 2023

Actinomycosis is common in the head and neck region but rarely occurs in the nasal septum. A 75-year-old male patient with an edentulous maxilla, hypertension, and diabetes developed actinomycosis confined to the nasal septum and showed mucosal necrosis and septal bony sequestration. The patient underwent surgery and medication therapy; this case was reported using endoscopic photographs and radiographs and a literature review was conducted to provide further context and understanding of the condition of the patient.
Workplace Objectification Leads to Self-Harm: The Mediating Effect of Depressive Moods
Authors: Dai Yuwan , Jiang Tonglin , Gaer Wangchu , Poon Kai-Tak
Published: December 2023

In the current research, we aimed to extend the literature on workplace objectification and contribute to employees’ well-being by exploring whether and how workplace objectification increases self-harm as well as the coping strategy that may weaken the effect. Employing archive data analytic, correlational, longitudinal, and experimental designs, we found that workplace objectification was associated with, or led to, self-harm, irrespective of whether such actions provided an escape from work. This effect could not be simply ascribed to the negative nature of workplace objectification. We further found that depressive moods mediated this effect. The detrimental effect of workplace objectification on self-harm was lessened when employees perceived higher alternatives in life. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed.
Effects of acupuncture on sleep quality in patients with Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Jiamin , Kong Yue , Chen Hailan , Ding Xintong , Zhou Wenguang
Published: December 2023

Objective

To systematically evaluate the evidence relating to acupuncture on the sleep quality of patients with Parkinson's disease.

Data sources

Six English-language (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, Embase, OVID MEDLINE, and Web of Science) and four Chinese-language (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, SinoMed, China Scientific Journals Database, and Wanfang) databases were searched for pertinent studies published from database inception to 11 October 2023.

Methods

Two researchers independently screened eligible studies and extracted relevant data using custom data extraction tables. Methodological quality assessment of the included studies was performed using Cochrane Handbook 5.1.0. Meta-analysis was performed using Cochrane Review Manager version 5.4.

Results

Twenty-four studies (1701 participants) met inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis showed that acupuncture improved the Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, Hamilton Depression Scale, Self-Rating Depression Scale, and Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire 39 scores compared with controls (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This review showed that acupuncture improved sleep quality, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and quality of life of patients with Parkinson's disease relative to controls.
Does the duration of catheterization have an impact on the outcome of trial without catheter in patients with acute urine retention (AUR) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)? A prospective randomized study
Authors: Abuelnaga Mohamed , Elawady Hossam , Mahmoud Mahmoud A , Mostafa Diaa , Samir Mohamed
Published: December 2023

Background:

To study the impact of early in comparison to late catheter removal following acute urine retention (AUR) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using silodosin therapy on the outcome of trial without catheter (TWOC).

Methods:

Two hundred sixty patients with AUR 2ry to BPH were catheterized then were randomly divided to receive silodosin 8 mg either for three or 7 days followed by catheter removal and successful voiding unaided was assessed.

Results:

Out of the 260 men (mean age 64.8 ± 6.5 years) treated, 74 men who were receiving 3 days of silodosin and 88 patients who were receiving 7 days of silodosin didn’t require re-catheterization on the day of TWOC (57% and 68% respectively, p = 0.096). Complications like urinary leakage, acute urinary tract infection, hematuria, or catheter blockage recorded in 21 men (16.2%) who received 3 days of silodosin, and in 63 men (48.5%) who received 7 days of silodosin ( p ⩽ 0.001).

Conclusion:

Patients catheterized after AUR 2ry to BPH can spontaneously void following catheter removal if treated by silodosin, independent of the catheterization duration, while side effects have increased with prolonged catheterization.