bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weak equivalence principle violation for mixed scalar particles
Authors: Blasone Massimo , Jizba Petr , Lambiase Gaetano , Petruzziello Luciano
Published: December 2023

We investigate the non-relativistic limit of the Klein–Gordon equation for mixed scalar particles and show that, in this regime, one unavoidably arrives at redefining the particle’s inertial mass. This happens because, in contrast to the case when mixing is absent, the antiparticle sector contribution cannot be neglected for particles with definite flavor. To clearly demonstrate this feature, we adopt the Feshbach–Villars formalism for Klein–Gordon particles. Furthermore, within the same framework, we also demonstrate that, in the presence of a weak gravitational field, the mass parameter that couples to gravity (gravitational mass) does not match the effective inertial mass. This, in turn, implies a violation of the weak equivalence principle. Finally, we prove that the Bargmann’s superselection rule, which prohibits oscillating particles on the basis of the Galilean transformation, is incompatible with the non-relativistic limit of the Lorentz transformation and hence does not collide with the results obtained.
A new solution for a generalized cosmological wormhole
Authors: Pérez Daniela , Neto Mário Raia
Published: December 2023

We find a new exact solution to Einstein field equations that represents a cosmological wormhole embedded in a flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker universe. The new metric is a generalization of a previous cosmological wormhole solution found by Kim. We explicitly show that the flaring out condition is satisfied at the throat at all cosmic times; in addition, the null energy condition is violated at the throat regardless of the background cosmological model; thus, the spacetime geometry presented here describes a wormhole coupled to the cosmic dynamics that exists at all cosmic times and whose throat remains open in any cosmological model.
ML-Based Identification of Neuromuscular Disorder Using EMG Signals for Emotional Health Application
Authors: Achmamad Abdelouahad , Elfezazi Mohamed , Chehri Abdellah , Ahmed Imran , Jbari Atman , Saadane Rachid
Published: December 2023

Abstract:
The electromyogram (EMG), also known as an EMG, is used to assess nerve impulses in motor nerves, sensory nerves, and muscles. EMS is a versatile tool used in various biomedical applications. It is commonly employed to determine physical health, but it also finds utility in evaluating emotional well-being, such as through facial electromyography. Classification of EMG signals has attracted the interest of scientists since it is crucial for identifying neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). Recent advances in the miniaturization of biomedical sensors enable the development of medical monitoring systems. This paper presents a portable and scalable architecture for machine learning modules designed for medical diagnostics. In particular, we provide a hybrid classification model for NMDs. The proposed method combines two supervised machine learning classifiers with the discrete wavelet transform (DWT). During the online testing phase, the class label of an EMG signal is predicted using the classifiers’ optimal models, which can be identified at this stage. The simulation results demonstrate that both classifiers have an accuracy of over 98%. Finally, the proposed method was implemented using an embedded CompactRIO-9035 real-time controller.
The Keiper-Li Criterion for the Riemann Hypothesis and Generalized Lambert Functions
Authors: McPhedran Ross , Scott Tony C. , Maignan Aude
Published: December 2023

Keiper [1] and Li [2] published independent investigations of the connection between the Riemann hypothesis and the properties of sums over powers of zeros of the Riemann zeta function. Here we consider a reframing of the criterion, to work with higher-order derivatives

ξ
r

of the symmetrized function
ξ
(
s
) at
s
= 1/2, with all

ξ
r

known to be positive. The reframed criterion requires knowledge of the asymptotic properties of two terms, one being an infinite sum over the

ξ
r
.

This is studied using known asymptotic expansions for the

ξ
r

, which give the location of the summand as a relationship between two parameters. This relationship needs to be inverted, which we show can be done exactly using a generalized Lambert function. The result enables an accurate asymptotic expression for the value of the infinite sum.
Clustering in the Lazard method for Cylindrical Algebraic Decomposition
Authors: Río Tereso del , Sadeghimanesh AmirHosein , England Matthew
Published: December 2023

Cylindrical Algebraic Decomposition (CAD) is an algorithm originally proposed by Collins in [4]. Given a set of multivariate polynomials, CAD decomposes the multidimensional real space into connected subsets called cells, within which those polynomials are sign-invariant.
Review—Exploitation of Modified Electrochemical Sensors for Fast and Reliable Detection of Plastics Endocrine-Disrupting Contaminants
Authors: Sayed Doha M. , Metwally Mahmoud G. , Nour El-Dein Ahmed I. , Mourad Essam A. , Idress Hassan R. , Khodira Khalid A. , Mohammed Youssef A. , El Nashar Rasha Mohamed
Published: December 2023

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are synthetic compounds widely used in various industrial and consumer products, raising concerns about their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. Among the numerous EDCs, Bisphenols, phthalates, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have attracted significant attention due to their prevalence and adverse effects. Accurately identifying and quantifying these EDCs is important for assessing exposure levels and evaluating the associated risks. This review article shed the light on recent advancements in modified electrochemical sensors and biosensors using nanomaterials, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), Metal organic frameworks and nanocomposite-based electrodes, and their applicability for detecting EDCs during the past five years. The development of innovative electrode materials, optimization strategies used to increase the sensitivity and selectivity of electrochemical sensors. The challenges of real-world sample analysis are investigated as well along with possible solutions, such as matrix interference and detection limitations. Future perspectives and emerging trends in the electrochemical detection of EDCs, are also elaborated with a particular emphasis on developments in portable and miniaturized devices, multiplexed sensing platforms, and the incorporation of machine learning and artificial intelligence for better data analysis, and on-site detection.
Additive impact of soy protein dietary intake and exercise on visceral fat mass reduction and mitochondrial complex I activation in skeletal muscle
Authors: Kido Kohei , Watanabe Shinya , Kusano Masaki , Ito Ai , Sakai Kazuya , Kosugi Miki , Gotoh Yayoi , Suzuki Toshio , Kawanaka Kentaro , Higaki Yasuki
Published: December 2023

The findings revealed that soy protein intake combined with exercise resulted in reduced adipose tissue weight compared with that obtained with casein protein intake. Furthermore, the joint impact of exercise and soy protein consumption resulted in enhanced activity of oxidative phosphorylation protein (OXPHOS) complex I in fast-twitch muscles, which appears to be associated with fat mass reduction. These findings elucidate the potential additive effects of soy protein and exercise on body weight management.
ABHD5 protects cardiac function in alcoholic cardiomyopathy via HDAC4-NT to inhibit CAMKII/MEF2 axis
Authors: Lv Xiaobing , Tian Xintao , Dong Beiei , Wang Haixia , Su Xiaoting , Liu Boqin
Published: December 2023

Excessive intake of Alcohol is associated with a high incidence of alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM), which may impair cardiac function. In our study, we explored the Abhydrolase Domain Containing 5 (ABHD5) mechanism in ACM about histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) and CaM-CaMKII/MEF2 signaling pathway. Rat models of ACM were established in Wistar rats, and in vitro cell models were constructed in rat cardiomyocytes H9C2 utilizing 12-h of treatment of Alcohol (200 mM) to study the regulatory role of ABHD5 in ACM with the involvement of HDAC4 and CaM-CaMKII/MEF2 signaling pathway, as evidenced by determination of cardiac function, myocardial fibrosis, apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and oxidative stress condition. We found that both ABHD5 mRNA and protein expression was significantly lower in the ACM rats and rat cardiomyocytes H9C2. ACM rats with oe-ABHD5 injection showed repressed myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. Also, overexpression of ABHD5 reduced apoptosis and oxidative stress in H9C2 cells. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that ABHD5 via HDAC4-NT inhibits CAMKII/MEF2 axis. This study highlighted that ABHD5 decreased cardiac hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis and limited cardiomyocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress injury in ACM.
Reversible deactivation of motor cortex reveals that areas in parietal cortex are differentially dependent on motor cortex for the generation of movement
Authors: Bresee Chris S. , Cooke Dylan F. , Goldring Adam B. , Baldwin Mary K. L. , Pineda Carlos R. , Krubitzer Leah A.
Published: December 2023

Motor cortex and anterior and posterior parietal cortex form a sensorimotor integration network. We tested the extent to which parietal areas could initiate movements independent of M1. Our findings support the contention that, although areas 2, 5L, PF, and PFG are highly dependent on M1 to produce movement, area 1 may constitute a parallel corticospinal pathway that can function somewhat independently of M1. A similar functional architecture may underlie dexterous tool use in humans.
Not My Fault to Phub Friends! Individual, Social, and Technological Influences on Phubbing and Its Consequences
Authors: Sun Juhyung , Yoon Doyle
Published: December 2023

Fphubbing (friend phubbing) indicates snubbing friends by checking and/or using one’s smartphone. This study examined three approaches to provide more detailed insights and comprehensive views of phubbing: individual differences, social influences, and technological influences on Fphubbing. In addition, this study explored the outcomes of Fphubbing and further examined the mediating role of Fphubbing between proposed predictors and consequences in this study. A sample of 266 college students (aged between 18 and 38,

M

age

=
20.02

) also revealed that (a) smartphone dependence was positively associated with Fphubbing, while self-control had a negative association with Fphubbing; (b) social norms were positively related to Fphubbing; and (c) technology overload and interruptive notifications were positively associated with Fphubbing. We also found that Fphubbing was negatively associated with friendship commitment and satisfaction, respectively. Further, Fphubbing served as a mediator in the proposed model.
Improvement of Endothelial Cell-Polycaprolactone Interaction through Surface Modification via Aminolysis, Hydrolysis, and a Combined Approach
Authors: Bellen Femke , Carbone Elisa , Baatsen Pieter , Jones Elizabeth A. V. , Kabirian Fatemeh , Heying Ruth
Published: December 2023

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a promising material for the fabrication of alternatives to autologous grafts used in coronary bypass surgery. PCL biodegrades over time, allowing cells to infiltrate the polymeric matrix, replacing the biodegrading graft, and creating a fully functional vessel constituted of autologous tissue. However, the high hydrophobicity of PCL is associated with poor cell affinity. Surface modification of PCL can increase this cell affinity, making PCL an improved scaffold material for acellular vascular grafts. In this study, the surface of PCL films was modified by hydrolysis, aminolysis, and the combination thereof to introduce carboxyl, hydroxyl, and amino groups on the surface. Only the hydrolyzed films exhibited a significant increase in their hydrophilicity, although further testing showed that all aminolysis conditions had amino groups on the surface. Furthermore, in vitro experiments with human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) were performed to assess changes in cell affinity for PCL due to the surface treatments. PCL treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), a hydrolysis reaction, showed a significant increase in endothelial cell adhesion after 24 hours with a significant increase in cell survival after 72 hours. Thus, NaOH treatment improves the biocompatibility and endothelialization of PCL, creating a competent candidate for artificial, acellular, biodegradable vascular grafts.
In Vitro Synergistic Activity of Combinations of Tetrahydroisoquinolines and Treatment Antibiotics against Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella
Authors: Ndip Rita Ayuk , Hanna Joelle Ngo , Mbah James Ajeck , Ghogomu Stephen Mbigha , Ngemenya Moses Njutain
Published: December 2023

The global burden of Salmonella infections remains high due to the emergence of multidrug resistance to all recommended treatment antibiotics. Tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) have demonstrated promising activity against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Typhi. Hence, their interaction with treatment antibiotics was investigated for possible synergy. Twenty combinations of five THIQs (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) and four antibiotics were tested against each of 7 Salmonella isolates by the checkerboard method giving a total of 140 assays performed. Fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs) were calculated, and isobolograms were plotted. In terms of FICI, synergism ranged from 0.078 to 0.5 and the highest magnitude (0.078) was recorded for chloramphenicol-THIQ 1 combination. In a total of 140 antibiotics-THIQs combination assays, 27 were synergistic (17%), 42 were additive (30%), 11 were antagonistic (7.8%), and 60 were indifferent (42%). The synergistic activity recorded for each antibiotic class in combination based on the total of 7 bacterial isolates tested ranged from 14.29% to 71.43%; the highest percentage was recorded for two combinations (chloramphenicol or sulphamethoxazole with THIQ 1). Ciprofloxacin-THIQ 1 combination showed additivity on all bacteria isolates tested (100%). Overall, THIQ 1 was the most synergistic and most additive in combination with three antibiotics (ampicillin, chloramphenicol, or sulphamethoxazole-trimethoprim). Some combinations of the THIQs and treatment antibiotics have shown high synergism which could potentially be efficacious against multidrug-resistant S. Typhi, hence this interaction should be further studied in vivo.
Prevalence of Iron Deficiency, Anemia, and Associated Factors in a Blood Donor Population in Brazzaville, Congo
Authors: Galiba Atipo-Tsiba Firmine Olivia , Gayaba Mouyabi Earl Quincy , Angounda Brunel Monic , Mokono Serge Oscar , Ocko Gokaba Lethso Thibaut , Elira Dokekias Alexis
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Blood donation is not without risk to the donor. It results in a substantial loss of iron and decreased hemoglobin. In our country, no predonation assessment is carried out and the selection of blood donors is only clinical. Objectives. To determine the prevalence of iron deficiency, anemia, and iron deficiency anemia and to identify the factors associated with anemia and iron status in a blood donor population at the National Center for Blood Transfusion (NCBT). Methodology. A prospective study is carried out that consists of 120 blood donors in three NCBT branches in the capital from June to November 2021. The donors were divided into 3 groups: first time donors (FTDs), occasional donors (ODs) who have already made between 1 and 3 previous donations, and regular donors (RDs) with at least 4 previous donations. Iron deficiency was defined by a serum ferritin value of less than 30 ng/mL in men and 20 ng/mL in women. Anemia was defined by Hb levels below 13 g/dL in men and 12 g/dL in women. Iron deficiency anemia was defined by association of anemia and iron deficiency. The chi-square test was used for the comparison of the proportions. The odds ratio with the 95% confidence interval was calculated to assess the association between two variables. The

p

value of the probability was considered significant for a value < 0.05. Results. Mean serum ferritin and hemoglobin values were lower in RD in both sexes. The prevalence of iron deficiency, anemia, and iron deficiency anemia were 16.66%, 31.66%, and 10.83%, respectively. The factors associated with the three abnormalities were female sex, donor type, including RD, and number of previous donations. Conclusion. Iron deficiency, anemia, and iron deficiency anemia are common among blood donors in Brazzaville. Anemia affects almost a third of blood donors and is not always linked to iron deficiency. Safety of donors should be improved by systematic measurement of ferritinemia and hemoglobin levels before allowing donations for appropriate management in the event of abnormalities.
Posibles consecuencias de la Propuesta Constitucional de 2023 con relación a la productividad macroeconómica
Authors: Guthmann Rafael
Published: December 2023

Actualmente, varios indicadores de desarrollo sugieren que Chile es la nación más desarrollada de América Latina. Este país tiene el mayor PIB per cápita en términos reales (según el Banco Mundial) y la más larga esperanza de vida (según la Organización Mundial de la Salud) de la región. Continuar leyendo...
Tópicos de marketing no século XXI: volume 3
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Reimão Sandra , Miyazaki Silvio Y. M. ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades
Published: December 2023

Tópicos de Marketing no século XXI: Volume 3 é publicação do curso de Marketing da Escola de Ciências, Artes e Humanidades da Universidade de São Paulo, EACH-USP, voltada para a difusão de trabalhos da área de marketing em toda a sua amplitude, incluindo suas interfaces com comunicação, administração, publicidade, propaganda, gestão, psicologia, sociologia, entre outros campos do conhecimento. Tópicos de Marketing no século XXI: Volume 3 é uma publicação eletrônica disponibilizada em acesso aberto. Os textos são publicados com direitos não exclusivos
Contribuição ao conhecimento da subfamília kathlaniinae Lane, 1914 (Nematoda: Subuluroidea)
Authors: Freitas J. F. Teixeira de , Lent Herman
Published: December 2023

A partir de 1926, com a publicação do trabalho de Yorke & MAPLESTONE, os gêneros pertencentes à subfamília Kathlaniinae Lane, 1914, têm variado em sua validez, de acordo com os vários autores que deles têm tratado. O encontro de um representante deste grupo em Leptodactylus ocellatus (L.), proveniente do Uruguai, levou-nos a abordar o estudo desta sub família, acarretando as considerações adiante feitas. Para facilidade de exposição organisamos um histórico do grupo, resumindo depois os pontos mais importantes e controvertidos, sendo estes analisados sob a forma de questões que formulamos. Como aden[1]do publicamos a lista das espécies dos vários gêneros, seguidas dos sinônimos mais importantes, do habitat e da distribuição geográfica. Redescrevemos, ainda, o sexo masculino de uma espécie originalmente descrita da Argentina, cuja bibliografia tem passado despercebida.
Os Sabetíneos da América (Diptera, Culicidae)
Authors: Lane J. , Cerqueira N. L.
Published: December 2023

Os Sabetíneos, um dos maiores e mais distintos grupos de mosquitos, são encontrados voando durante o dia nas florestas tropicais. Enquanto os adultos se salientam pelo revestimento de escamas semelhante a uma cota de malha exibindo frequentemente variada e brilhante coloração metálica, as larvas caracterizam-se pela singularidade dos seus criadouros. As estruturas muito desenvolvidas aliadas aos hábitos das espécies que formam o grupo sugerem a sua recente evolução. A América com cinco gêneros, dezessete subgêneros e cento e cinquenta espécies representa melhor o grupo que o Velho Mundo com três gêneros, seis subgêneros, e cinquenta nove espécies.
Imagens relacionais: participação e imersão nas videoinstalações de Otávio Donasci
Authors: Almeida Fernanda Albuquerque de
Published: December 2023

Este artigo apresenta uma análise das videoinstalações do artista brasileiro Otávio Donasci (1952-) exibidas em instituições culturais, Videobusto (1986), Videotaxigirls (1992) e Videoesqueleto (1997), e apresentadas em espaços públicos, Hydra (1998) e VideoCriatura Imersiva (2001). Ele utiliza os objetos relacionais de Lygia Clark como ponto de partida para conceber a noção de imagens relacionais, respectiva ao modo de fruição, participativo e imersivo, solicitado por essas instalações. Esta aproximação visa ressaltar a hipótese de que as videocriaturas podem ser pensadas como alternativas aos modelos de comunicação unidirecional presentes tanto na televisão como nas redes sociais, pois consistem em seres híbridos, meio artificiais, meio orgânicos, que promovem interpelações diante do outro por meio de estratégias diversas e multissensoriais.
Como ver o que nos olha?
Authors: Mirocznik Betty
Published: December 2023

Esse artigo tem como foco central a análise das rasgaduras e aparições, e do paradoxo entre o modo de presença das coisas em relação à percepção que delas podemos ter. Isto é, o modo da presença ausente que revela ser o processo perceptivo marcado pela ambiguidade. Para tanto, me debruço sobre a apropriação dos espaços arquitetônicos pelo sujeito na construção de um lugar singular, tomando como estudo de caso o projeto do escritório japonês SANAA para o Campus Vitra (2006) em Weil am Rhein na Alemanha, por sua configuração única. Com vistas a dar conta dessa narrativa, visitei o Campus Vitra, com o intuito de experimentar, vivenciar e comprovar se a prática projetual e construtiva de Kazuyo Sejima e Ryue Nishizawa, opera de fato em sentido contrário ao mainstream, e, como sua arquitetura pode ou não transformar a relação e a percepção do fruidor com o entorno.  Como fortuna crítica remeto às reflexões do arquiteto finlandês Juhani Pallasmaa (1936), relacionada a apreensão psíquica da arquitetura obtida a partir do conceito de atmosfera – como um espaço sintonizado composto por um conjunto de elementos indefinidos e espacialmente distribuídos – e ao conceito da fenomenologia focada na atmosfera sob o ponto de vista do filósofo alemão Gernot Böhme. Para o filósofo, a atmosfera não se refere a características espirituais, mas a uma atitude reflexiva e crítica relacionada à consciência da corporeidade e da percepção do indivíduo.
ApoA-I Protects Pancreatic β-Cells From Cholesterol-Induced Mitochondrial Damage and Restores Their Ability to Secrete Insulin
Authors: Manandhar Bikash , Pandzic Elvis , Deshpande Nandan , Chen Sing-Young , Wasinger Valerie C. , Kockx Maaike , Glaros Elias N. , Ong Kwok Leung , Thomas Shane R. , Wilkins Marc R. , Whan Renee M. , Cochran Blake J. , Rye Kerry-Anne
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

High cholesterol levels in pancreatic β-cells cause oxidative stress and decrease insulin secretion. β-cells can internalize apo (apolipoprotein) A-I, which increases insulin secretion. This study asks whether internalization of apoA-I improves β-cell insulin secretion by reducing oxidative stress.

METHODS:

Ins-1E cells were cholesterol-loaded by incubation with cholesterol-methyl-β-cyclodextrin. Insulin secretion in the presence of 2.8 or 25 mmol/L glucose was quantified by radioimmunoassay. Internalization of fluorescently labeled apoA-I by β-cells was monitored by flow cytometry. The effects of apoA-I internalization on β-cell gene expression were evaluated by RNA sequencing. ApoA-I-binding partners on the β-cell surface were identified by mass spectrometry. Mitochondrial oxidative stress was quantified in β-cells and isolated islets with MitoSOX and confocal microscopy.

RESULTS:

An F
1
-ATPase β-subunit on the β-cell surface was identified as the main apoA-I-binding partner. β-cell internalization of apoA-I was time-, concentration-, temperature-, cholesterol-, and F
1
-ATPase β-subunit-dependent. β-cells with internalized apoA-I (apoA-I
+
cells) had higher cholesterol and cell surface F
1
-ATPase β-subunit levels than β-cells without internalized apoA-I (apoA-I
−
cells). The internalized apoA-I colocalized with mitochondria and was associated with reduced oxidative stress and increased insulin secretion. The IF
1
(ATPase inhibitory factor 1) attenuated apoA-I internalization and increased oxidative stress in Ins-1E β-cells and isolated mouse islets. Differentially expressed genes in apoA-I
+
and apoA-I
−
Ins-1E cells were related to protein synthesis, the unfolded protein response, insulin secretion, and mitochondrial function.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results establish that β-cells are functionally heterogeneous, and apoA-I restores insulin secretion in β-cells with elevated cholesterol levels by improving mitochondrial redox balance.
Spatial-extent inference for testing variance components in reliability and heritability studies
Authors: Pan Ruyi , Dickie Erin W. , Hawco Colin , Reid Nancy , Voineskos Aristotle N. , Park Jun Young
Published: December 2023

Clusterwise inference is a popular approach in neuroimaging to increase sensitivity, but most existing methods are currently restricted to the General Linear Model (GLM) for testing mean parameters. Statistical methods for testing variance components, which are critical in neuroimaging studies that involve estimation of narrow-sense heritability or test-retest reliability, are underdeveloped due to methodological and computational challenges, which would potentially lead to low power. We propose a fast and powerful test for variance components called CLEAN-V (CLEAN for testing Variance components). CLEAN-V models the global spatial dependence structure of imaging data and computes a locally powerful variance component test statistic by data-adaptively pooling neighborhood information. Correction for multiple comparisons is achieved by permutations to control family-wise error rate (FWER). Through analysis of task-functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from the Human Connectome Project across five tasks and comprehensive data-driven simulations, we show that CLEAN-V outperforms existing methods in detecting test-retest reliability and narrow-sense heritability with significantly improved power, with the detected areas aligning with activation maps. The computational efficiency of CLEAN-V also speaks of its practical utility, and it is available as an R package.
Denoising diffusion MRI: Considerations and implications for analysis
Authors: Manzano Patron Jose Pedro , Moeller Steen , Andersson Jesper L.R. , Ugurbil Kamil , Yacoub Essa , Sotiropoulos Stamatios N.
Published: December 2023

Development of diffusion MRI (dMRI) denoising approaches has experienced considerable growth over the last years. As noise can inherently reduce accuracy and precision in measurements, its effects have been well characterised both in terms of uncertainty increase in dMRI-derived features and in terms of biases caused by the noise floor, the smallest measurable signal given the noise level. However, gaps in our knowledge still exist in objectively characterising dMRI denoising approaches in terms of both of these effects and assessing their efficacy. In this work, we reconsider what a denoising method should and should not do and we accordingly define criteria to characterise the performance. We propose a comprehensive set of evaluations, including i) benefits in improving signal quality and reducing noise variance, ii) gains in reducing biases and the noise floor and improving, iii) preservation of spatial resolution, iv) agreement of denoised data against a gold standard, v) gains in downstream parameter estimation (precision and accuracy), and vi) efficacy in enabling noise-prone applications, such as ultra-high-resolution imaging. We further provide newly acquired complex datasets (magnitude and phase) with multiple repeats that sample different SNR regimes to highlight performance differences under different scenarios. Without loss of generality, we subsequently apply a number of exemplar patch-based denoising algorithms to these datasets, including Non-Local Means, Marchenko-Pastur PCA (MPPCA) in the magnitude and complex domain, and NORDIC, and compare them with respect to the above criteria and against a gold standard complex average of multiple repeats. We demonstrate that all tested denoising approaches reduce noise-related variance, but not always biases from the elevated noise floor. They all induce a spatial resolution penalty, but its extent can vary depending on the method and the implementation. Some denoising approaches agree with the gold standard more than others and we demonstrate challenges in even defining such a standard. Overall, we show that dMRI denoising performed in the complex domain is advantageous to magnitude domain denoising with respect to all the above criteria.
A Breakable Bond or Unity at Any Cost? Rethinking the Control Mechanisms Against the ‘Threats’ to National Unity in Tanzania
Authors: Babeiya Edwin
Published: December 2023

The literature treats Tanzania as an exemplary case in building and sustaining national unity in Africa. Several factors such as Nyerere’s charismatic leadership, the role of the Kiswahili language and the adoption of socialism are credited for this unity. The adoption of liberal democracy has, however, decreased the influence of these factors, hence leading to the emergence of ‘threats’ to national unity. Overcoming these threats has involved several mechanisms such as neutralizing potential referees and canonizing the past, which nonetheless pose a sustainability threat to this unity. Promoting national consensus and voluntary affinity to this unity is thus an imperative.
Boys and Their Toys: Status Inconsistency in Non-democratic Regimes and the Import of Major Weapon Systems
Authors: Johnson Richard A.I. , Shreve Aaron P.
Published: December 2023

Major weapon system imports are significant as they are useful for domestic and international security. However, states regularly imported weapons they want in addition to weapons they need. One explanation is that states import unnecessary weapons to gain status. We argue that states suffering from higher levels of negative status inconsistency (SI) import a greater proportion of status symbol weapons. To account for differing security motives, we also separate non-democratic regime types – strongman, junta, boss, and machine – as they vary in their international conflict propensity and domestic stability. Due to the differences across these regimes, we further argue that non-democratic personalist regimes will import more status symbol weapons. Using data covering 1965–1999, we find that negatively status inconsistent regimes import more status symbol weapons.
Vertical coalbed gas content distribution in the Walloon Subgroup of Daandine gas field and its geological controls
Authors: Cui Zehong , Huang Wensong , Zhang Zheng , Liu Linli , Wang Jianjun , Wei Xiaoyi , Jiao Jiahui
Published: December 2023

The Middle Jurassic Walloon Subgroup of Daandine gas field contains numerous coal seams with abundant coalbed methane (CBM) resources. However, the vertical gas content distribution of these coal seams is unclear currently, as well as its influencing factors, affecting the formulation of CBM exploration and exploitation strategy. For this purpose, using diverse geologic, experimental, and engineering data from recent exploration and development, this article ascertains the vertical coalbed gas content distribution in the Daandine gas field and discusses how the geological factors affect it. The results show that the coalbed gas contents have two basic trends as the depth increases: (1) increase, and then decrease; (2) increase. The former trend is dominant, and the inflection point occurs in the coal groups within or close to the Tangalooma Sandstone Formation. The correlation analysis shows that the macerals have little influence on the vertical coalbed gas content distribution. The moisture contents affect the adsorption capacity of coalbeds and show a negative correlation with the gas contents, and coal groups with higher moisture contents generally have lower gas contents. Three sets of independent gas-bearing systems exist in the Walloon Subgroup, and the coalbed gas content-depth relationship is relatively independent among different gas-bearing systems. The better the caprock condition, the higher the gas content, which is particularly evident in the coals of Condamine group. The permeabilities show a significant effect on the coalbed gas contents of Daandine coals. The coal groups within or close to the Tangalooma Sandstone Formation have higher permeabilities, as well as higher gas contents, and they are positively correlated. The reason is that the CBM in the study area is dominantly microbial in origin, and the higher permeability coals are conducive to the introduction of more microbial consortia into the coal seams, enhancing the generation of secondary biogenesis methane.
Identity veiling: Theorizing identity gap negotiation post-intimate partner violence
Authors: Burns Aimee Jeanne , Peters Charnell
Published: December 2023

Within the United States, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men experience intimate partner violence (IPV): psychological aggression, sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking from an intimate partner. Although some studies highlight the complexity of post-IPV recovery, the role of communication in post-IPV recovery remains underexplored. This study employs Communication Theory of Identity (CTI) to analyze in-depth interviews with post-IPV adults. Analysis reveals how individuals negotiate post-IPV identity gaps between the personal-personal and personal-relational layers of identity. The forwarded concept of identity veiling explicates how IPV tactics cause the relational layer of identity to eclipse the personal layer in IPV relationships. Therefore, post-IPV recovery involves unveiling the personal layer of identity—communicatively (re)constructing self-image beyond the IPV relationship and the identity gaps it engendered. This study conceptualizes the role of violent communication in the construction of identity gaps and identity gap negotiation.
Parental Internet practices in the family system: Restrictive mediation, problematic Internet use, and adolescents’ age-related variations in perceptions of parent-child relationship quality
Authors: Peebles Alanna , Chen Y. Anthony
Published: December 2023

The current study draws from family systems theory to investigate the relationships between parents’ Internet practices, adolescent age (as a proxy for child development), and adolescents’ perceptions of parent-adolescent relationship quality. Secondary data analysis of 4,592 U.S. parent-adolescent dyads from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey revealed that when parents reported having more problematic Internet use, adolescents (ages 12–17) reported having worse relationships with their parents. Stricter rules regarding Internet usage were associated with lower parent-adolescent relationship quality. This negative relationship was more pronounced for adolescents 14.55 years old and older. Unexpectedly, having stricter rules about Internet content was related to better parent-adolescent relationship quality; this association was weaker for older adolescents. The findings provide insight into the differences between restrictive Internet mediation practices about time and content, the importance of examining parents’ problematic Internet use, and the need for considering children’s development when examining the role of media in the family system.
Assessment of lower extremity venous insufficiency and lipedema and their association with knee symptoms, functions, and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ekti Hilmi , Toktas Hasan , Yesil Hilal , Kaya Furkan
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effects of the venous insufficiency (VI) or lipedema on the symptoms, functions, and quality of life (QoL) of patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

96 patients with stage 3/4 knee OA were included in the study. Patients were grouped as OA ( n = 35), VI + OA ( n = 35), and lipedema + OA ( n = 26). Range of motion (ROM), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), short-form (SF-36), and 6-minute walking test (6MWT) were evaluated.

Results

WOMAC stiffness score was significantly higher in the VI group than the other groups ( p < .05). VAS resting, WOMAC pain, function, and total scores were significantly higher in the lipedema + OA and VI + OA groups than the OA group ( p < .05). SF-36-physical role limitation was significantly lower in the lipedema and VI groups ( p < .05).

Conclusion

VI or lipedema accompanying knee OA increases the existing disability due to OA by negatively affecting patients regarding pain, QoL, and physical functioning.
Dynamic Illumination Method for Rural Highway Intersections with Traffic Flow Changes
Authors: Li Hongtao , Wang Linhong , Bie Yiming
Published: December 2023

The conflicts between vehicles and vulnerable road users are frequent at rural highway intersections. Improving lighting conditions at intersections can significantly reduce the likelihood of nighttime accidents. This study aims to develop a dynamic illumination method for rural highway intersections with traffic flow changes. First, the safety design principles of a lighting scheme were formulated for minimum illuminance, vehicle speed, and traffic risk at intersections. In addition, a traffic risk quantification model for intersections was developed with illuminance and traffic flow parameters as inputs, incorporating gap acceptance theory and the braking safety distance model. Second, combining safety design principles and a traffic risk quantification model, a calculation method for optimal illuminance at intersections was designed with minimum illuminance as the optimization objective, and considering the risk at intersections not exceeding the safety threshold as the constraint. Finally, a case study was conducted in a simulated environment. Evaluation results demonstrate that limiting the maximum nighttime vehicle speed at intersections to 50 km/h can maximize the energy-saving rate of the lighting system while ensuring traffic safety and transport efficiency. The advantage of the method is that it can calculate the safe lighting scheme for highway intersections without any historic accident data and save lighting energy consumption. It increases the feasibility of promoting lighting facilities at rural highway intersections.
Older Adults’ Perceptions of the Technology Influence on Interpersonal Communication: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rosenberg Dennis
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to understand the association between the online experience of older adults, their socio-demographic background, and their perceptions regarding the influence of the new technologies on their interpersonal communication. Technology familiarity and grey digital divide approaches served as the study’s theoretical framework. The data were obtained from the 2020 Israel Social Survey and analyzed using multinomial logistic regression models. The sample included adults aged 60 years and older ( N = 1,607). The findings show that online group participation and general Internet use, though to a varying extent, corresponded to more positive perceptions of influence of the new technologies on both family and peer communication. Female gender, tertiary education, and belonging to ethnic majority group were associated with more positive perceptions in the studied context. The results imply that online experience of older adults is more dominant than their background with respect to perceptions regarding the influence of new technologies on interpersonal communication. The findings imply that older adults should engage in various activities on the Internet, especially in the online group participation, in order to have better perceptions regarding the new technology influence on interpersonal communication.
Reducing Facial Stereotype Bias in Consequential Social Judgments: Intervention Success With White Male Faces
Authors: Hong Youngki , Chua Kao-Wei , Freeman Jonathan B.
Published: December 2023

Initial impressions of others based on facial appearances are often inaccurate yet can lead to dire outcomes. Across four studies, adult participants underwent a counterstereotype training to reduce their reliance on facial appearance in consequential social judgments of White male faces. In Studies 1 and 2, trustworthiness and sentencing judgments among control participants predicted whether real-world inmates were sentenced to death versus life in prison, but these relationships were diminished among trained participants. In Study 3, a sequential priming paradigm demonstrated that the training was able to abolish the relationship between even automatically and implicitly perceived trustworthiness and the inmates’ life-or-death sentences. Study 4 extended these results to realistic decision-making, showing that training reduced the impact of facial trustworthiness on sentencing decisions even in the presence of decision-relevant information. Overall, our findings suggest that a counterstereotype intervention can mitigate the potentially harmful effects of relying on facial appearance in consequential social judgments.
Failure of Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis in Klippel- Feil Syndrome- 4: A Case Report of a Rare Syndromic Robin Sequence
Authors: Yanko Emma , Spink Brandon , Gendron Craig
Published: December 2023

Klippel-Feil syndrome-4 (KFS4), a rare autosomal recessive form of Klippel- Feil syndrome, is characterized by facial dysmorphism, nemaline myopathy, and short stature. Only 10 cases of KFS4 have been previously published in the literature. We report a novel case of a 1- month-old girl with known KFS4 and Robin Sequence (RS). At 2 months old, she underwent bilateral mandibular distraction osteogenesis to correct significant airway obstruction. Despite adequate mandibular advancement, the patient failed extubation twice and eventually required a tracheostomy. Due to the multiple anomalies present in KFS4, mandibular distraction osteogenesis may have a decreased likelihood of surgical success.
Prognostic Values Serum Cav-1 and NGB Levels in Early Neurological Deterioration After Intravenous Thrombolysis in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Wang Cui , Zhao Manhong , Li Xuesong , Qu Hong , Xu Jianping , Li Di
Published: December 2023

Early neurological deterioration after intravenous thrombolysis (IAT) leads to increased mortality and morbidity in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This study investigated the correlation between serum Cav-1 and NGB levels and END after IAT and explored their predictive values for poor prognosis of AIS. Totally 210 patients with AIS who underwent IAT within 4.5 h of onset were included and assigned into END group (n = 90) and Non-END group (n = 120). ELISA was used to detect serum Cav-1 and NGB levels before IAT in AIS patients. The prognosis of END patients after 3 months of treatment was evaluated using the modified Rankin Scale. Logistic multifactorial regression was used to analyze independent risk factors for END and poor prognosis after IAT. ROC curve was used to analyze the predictive effect of Cav-1 and NGB on END and poor prognosis after IAT. The area under the ROC curve was analyzed by MedCalc comparison. Compared with the Non-END group, serum Cav-1 was lower and NGB was higher in the END group. Cav-1 and NGB were independent risk factors for END after IAT. Cav-1 + NGB better predicted END after IAT than Cav-1 or NGB alone. Cav-1 and NGB were independent risk factors for END poor prognosis after IAT. Cav-1 combined with NGB better predicted poor prognosis of END after IAT than Cav-1 or NGB alone. Serum Cav-1 combined with NGB may assist in predicting the risk of END occurrence and poor prognosis after IAT in patients with AIS.
The VIF Score. What is it Good For? Absolutely Nothing
Authors: Kalnins Arturs , Praitis Hill Kendall
Published: December 2023

Variance inflation factors (VIF scores) are regression diagnostics commonly invoked throughout the social sciences. Researchers typically take the perspective that VIF scores below a numerical rule-of-thumb threshold act as a “silver bullet” to dismiss any and all multicollinearity concerns. Yet, no valid logical basis exists for using VIF thresholds to reject the possibility of multicollinearity-induced type 1 errors. Reporting VIF scores below a threshold does not in any way add to the credibility of statistically significant results among correlated variables. In contrast to this “threshold perspective,” our analysis expands the scope of a perspective that has considered multicollinearity and misspecification. We demonstrate analytically that a regression omitting a relevant variable correlated with included variables that exhibit multicollinearity is susceptible to endogeneity-induced bias inflation and beta polarization, leading to the possible co-existence of type 1 errors and low VIF scores. Further, omitting variables explicitly reduces VIF scores. We conclude that the threshold perspective not only lacks any logical basis but also is fundamentally misleading as a rule-of-thumb. Instrumental variables represent one clear remedy for endogeneity-induced bias inflation. If exogenous instruments are unavailable, we encourage researchers to test only straightforward, unambiguous theory when using variables that exhibit multicollinearity, and to ensure that correlated co-variates exhibit the expected signs.
A follow-up study of the “Lighthouse” mentalization-based parenting program: Mentalization as a mediator of change
Authors: Gervinskaitė-Paulaitienė Lina , Ruggiero Matthew , Taubner Svenja , Volkert Jana , Barkauskienė Rasa
Published: December 2023

This paper reports follow-up findings for an Mentalization based treatment (MBT) parenting intervention delivered to a community mental health sample. Parents completed the 12-week version of the Lighthouse Parenting Program (LPP) and were evaluated on parenting practices, parent-child relationships, parental mental health indicators, and child problem behaviour levels. We evaluated the extent to which improvements in mentalizing at follow-up mediated changes in parenting, parental adjustment, mental health, and child outcomes. Results included a reduction in parental coercive behaviours and child problems, improved parent-child relationship, and better parental psychological adjustment and mental health. Improvement in self-focused mentalizing were observed. Self-focused mentalizing mediated the changes in most outcomes from baseline to 3-month follow-up. These results provide strong preliminary evidence that the LPP improves parent and child outcomes.