bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of wheelset equivalent conicity using the dual extended Kalman filter
Authors: Damsongsaeng Prapanpong , Persson Rickard , Stichel Sebastian , Casanueva Carlos
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the implementation of the dual extended Kalman filter (DEKF) to estimate wheelset equivalent conicity, an accurate understanding of which can facilitate the implementation of an effective model-based estimator. The estimator is developed to identify the wheelset equivalent conicity of high-speed railway vehicles while negotiating a curve. The designed DEKF estimator employs two discrete-time extended Kalman filters combining state and parameter estimators in parallel. This estimator uses easily available measurements from acceleration sensors measuring at axle boxes and a rate gyroscope measuring bogie frame yaw velocity. Two tests, including linearized and actual wheel-rail geometry, are carried out at a speed of 250 km/h with stochastic and deterministic track features using multibody simulations, SIMPACK. The results with acceptable estimation errors for both track conditions indicate adequate performance and reliability of the designed DEKF estimator. They demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing this DEKF method in rail vehicle applications as the knowledge of time-varying parameters is not only important in achieving an effective estimator for vehicle control but also useful for vehicle condition monitoring.
Three-dimensional sonification as a surgical guidance tool
Authors: Ziemer Tim
Published: October 2023

Interactive Sonification is a well-known guidance method in navigation tasks. Researchers have repeatedly suggested the use of interactive sonification in neuronavigation and image-guided surgery. The hope is to reduce clinicians’ cognitive load through a relief of the visual channel, while preserving the precision provided through image guidance. In this paper, we present a surgical use case, simulating a craniotomy preparation with a skull phantom. Through auditory, visual, and audiovisual guidance, non-clinicians successfully find targets on a skull that provides hardly any visual or haptic landmarks. The results show that interactive sonification enables novice users to navigate through three-dimensional space with a high precision. The precision along the depth axis is highest in the audiovisual guidance mode, but adding audio leads to higher durations and longer motion trajectories.
Assessment of CAD/CAM Customized V Pattern Plate Versus Standard Miniplates Fixation in Mandibular Angle Fracture (Randomized Clinical Trial)
Authors: Saleh Hiba Obad , Moussa Basma Gamal , Salah Eddin Khaled Amr , Noman Samer Abduljabar , Salah Ahmed Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Background

Mandibular angle is the most common site for fractures, accounting for 23–42% of all cases of mandibular fractures. A customized fixation system is designed directly for a specific patient, which reduces the time spent bending and fixing the plate during the operation. This study was designed to assess the effect of CAD/CAM customized V pattern plate versus standard miniplates fixation in mandibular angle fracture.

Materials and Methods

This prospective randomized clinical trial included 26 patients suffering from mandibular angle fracture. Patients were selected from Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University and Ahmed Maher Teaching Hospital. Study group (13) needed open reduction and internal fixation by using CAD/CAM V plate with surgical guide, while control group (13) needed open reduction and internal fixation by using standard superior–inferior miniplate fixation. The patients were then followed up for one year postoperatively.

Results

It showed that there was a statistical difference between the study group and the control group regarding postoperative pain, occlusion, and maximal interincisal opening (p value < 0.05%). There was no statistical difference (p value > 0.05%) in the postoperative panoramic radiograph that was taken within the postoperative 1st week in both groups, while the increase in mean bone density was statistically significant (p value < 0.05%) from 6 months to one year postoperatively.

Conclusion

CAD/CAM customized V pattern plate is a suitable plate design because it offers sufficient stability for normal bone healing, the creation of an ideal occlusion, an early return to function, and adequate postoperative radiographic outcomes.

Trial Registration

It was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. Registration number: NCT03761524. Registration date: 03.12.2018.
Eco-evolutionary Logic of Mutualisms
Authors: Gokhale Chaitanya S. , Frean Marcus , Rainey Paul B.
Published: October 2023

Mutualistic interactions among members of different species are common, seemingly stable, and thus apparently enduring. This is at odds with standard mathematical models based solely on between-species interactions, which show mutualisms to be inherently unstable. Models incorporating parameters for punishment and reward strategies demonstrate that the range of conditions over which stability is observed can be extended; however, the role of community-level dynamics impacted by within-species interactions remains relatively unexplored. Here we develop a general and readily applicable approach for analysing a broad range of mutualisms. By incorporating within-species interactions, we show that mutualisms can be stably maintained across diverse environmental conditions without introducing changes to between-species interaction parameters. Further, a balance of within- and between-species interactions is sufficient to allow the persistence of mutualisms encountering ecological perturbations. Our simple and robust framework resonates with emerging empirical data highlighting the role of community-level interactions and population dynamics in maintaining mutualisms.
Patterns of infringement, risk, and impact driven by coal mining permits in Indonesia
Authors: Werner Tim T. , Toumbourou Tessa , Maus Victor , Lukas Martin C. , Sonter Laura J. , Muhdar Muhamad , Runting Rebecca K. , Bebbington Anthony
Published: October 2023

Coal mining is known for its contributions to climate change, but its impacts on the environment and human lives near mine sites are less widely recognised. This study integrates remote sensing, GIS, stakeholder interviews and extensive review of provincial data and documents to identify patterns of infringement, risk and impact driven by coal mining expansion across East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Specifically, we map and analyse patterns of mining concessions, land clearing, water cover, human settlement, and safety risks, and link them with mining governance and regulatory infractions related to coal mining permits. We show that excessive, improper permit granting and insufficient monitoring and oversight have led to deforestation, widespread overlaps of concessions with settlements, extensive boundary and regulatory violations, lacking reclamation, and numerous deaths. As the world’s largest thermal coal exporter, Indonesia’s elevated coal infringements, risks, and impacts translate to supply chain, sustainability, and human rights concerns for global coal markets.
Coinfections and antimicrobial treatment in a cohort of falciparum malaria in a non-endemic country: a 10-year experience
Authors: Küpper-Tetzel Claus P. , Idris Raja , Kessel Johanna , Schüttfort Gundolf , Hoehl Sebastian , Kohmer Niko , Graf Christiana , Hogardt Michael , Besier Silke , Wichelhaus Thomas A. , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Stephan Christoph , Wetzstein Nils
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Falciparum malaria remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases worldwide. In Germany, it is mainly an imported infection among travellers. Rates of coinfection are often unknown, and a clinical rationale for the beneficial use of calculated antibiotic therapy in patients with malaria and suspected coinfection is lacking.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of all in-patients treated with falciparum malaria at a German infectious diseases centre in vicinity to one of Europe’s major airports for 2010–2019. Logistic regression and time-to-event analysis were used to evaluate predictors for bacterial coinfection, the use of antibacterial substances, as well as their influence on clinical course.

Results

In total, 264 patients were included. Of those, 64% received an additional antibacterial therapy (n = 169). Twenty-nine patients (11.0%) were found to have suffered from a relevant bacterial coinfection, while only a small fraction had relevant bacteremia (n = 3, 1.4%). However, patients with severe malaria did not suffer from coinfections more frequently (p = 0.283). CRP levels were not a reliable predictor for a bacterial coinfection (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.94–1.06, p = 0.850), while another clinical focus of infection was positively associated (OR 3.86, 95% CI 1.45–11.55, p  = 0.010).

Conclusion

Although bacterial coinfections were rare in patients with malaria at our centre, the risk does not seem negligible. These data point rather towards individual risk assessment in respective patients than to general empiric antibiotic use.
Acacia decurrens tree plantations brought land use land cover change in northwestern of Ethiopia
Authors: Endalew Tesfahun , Anteneh Mesfin
Published: October 2023

Tree plantation-based land use in Ethiopia is a crucial sustainable approach to improving community income and reducing soil resource degradation in highland areas. The study aimed to evaluate land use and cover change and examine factors driving community transition from crop agriculture to tree plantation in Fagita Lekoma district. Landsat 1986, 2002 and 2020 images were used to generate the land use maps by using the maximum likelihood algorithm of supervised classification. This study utilized field observations, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews as crucial data collection tools for socioeconomic analysis. The change detection results show that cultivated land, grassland, and wetlands are significantly declining by 22.6, 20.1, and 63%, respectively. On the contrary, forestland and settlement areas are increasing by 210 and 1,665%, respectively. Forest cover was increased by 210% in the district’s study year, with the highest conversion rate of 15.1% from cultivated land to forest land in the overall study period. As a result, Acacia decurrens forestation is the main cause of the change of use from arable land to forest land systems. This tree plantation-based land use is also the main driving force behind shifting crop farming to tree plantation-based livelihoods because it increases economic benefits and employment opportunities, reduces soil erosion, and increases soil productivity in the area. To limit the negative consequences and raise the beneficial effects of tree plantations, systematic management of tree-based land use systems, integrated advanced land resource management, and increased economic and environmental benefits are suggested for the district.
Success Factors for Scaling Up and Raising Investment by Circular Entrepreneurs in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies
Authors: Rataj Olga , Türkeli Serdar
Published: October 2023

This paper sheds light on sustainability transitions in emerging markets and developing economies by analysing success factors for scaling up and raising investment by circular entrepreneurs with the use of qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). A systemic approach is adopted including internal, external, and contextual conditions. The paper provides both a theoretical contribution, in that a conceptual model of different relevant factors is presented as well as empirical validation based on a broad range of data distilled from surveys filled in by 33 entrepreneurs supported by three international projects, i.e. two by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Global Cleantech Innovation Programme and Private Financing Advisory Network) and one by Climate-KIC (Climate Launchpad). While three different relevant combinations of conditions have been identified for scaling up, there is no conclusive evidence of success factors for raising investment, and therefore, further conceptual and empirical work is recommended in this field.
RCoV19: A One-Stop Hub for SARS-CoV-2 Genome Data Integration, Variant Monitoring, and Risk Pre-Warning
Authors: Li Cuiping , Ma Lina , Zou Dong , Zhang Rongqin , Bai Xue , Li Lun , Wu Gangao , Huang Tianhao , Zhao Wei , Jin Enhui , Bao Yiming , Song Shuhui
Published: October 2023

The Resource for Coronavirus 2019 (RCoV19) is an open-access information resource dedicated to providing valuable data on the genomes, mutations, and variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this updated implementation of RCoV19, we have made significant improvements and advancements over the previous version. Firstly, we have implemented a highly refined genome data curation model. This model now features an automated integration pipeline and optimized curation rules, enabling efficient daily updates of data in RCoV19. Secondly, we have developed a global and regional lineage evolution monitoring platform, alongside an outbreak risk pre-warning system. These additions provide a comprehensive understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolution and transmission patterns, enabling better preparedness and response strategies. Thirdly, we have developed a powerful interactive mutation spectrum comparison module. This module allows users to compare and analyze mutation patterns, assisting in the detection of potential new lineages. Furthermore, we have incorporated a comprehensive knowledgebase on mutation effects. This knowledgebase serves as a valuable resource for retrieving information on the functional implications of specific mutations. In summary, RCoV19 serves as a vital scientific resource, providing access to valuable data, relevant information, and technical support in the global fight against COVID-19. The complete contents of RCoV19 are available to the public at https://ngdc.cncb.ac.cn/ncov/.
Multidrug-resistant VAP before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among hospitalized patients in a tertiary private hospital
Authors: Aligui Alec Ann Alissa F. , Abad Cybele Lara R.
Published: October 2023

Background:

There is limited data on ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and multidrug-resistant VAP (MDR VAP) among COVID-19 patients.

Methods:

A retrospective study in a single, tertiary, private hospital in the Philippines was conducted comparing the incidence, profile, and patient outcomes of MDR VAP during the pre-COVID-19 (2018–2019) and COVID-19 (2020–2021) periods.

Results:

In total, 80/362 (22%) patients developed VAP, 27/204 (33.75%) from pre-COVID-19 and 53/158 (66.25%) from the COVID-19 period, respectively. The majority were male [20/27 (74%) vs 34/53 (64%)], with a median age of 66 (range 35–90) and 67 (range 32–92) years in each period, respectively. Comorbidities were similar, except cardiovascular disease (14/27 vs 11/53 patients, p-value 0.005) and chronic lung disease (14/27 vs 9/53 patients, p-value 0.0012). VAP incidence density was 19.3/1000 and 27.8/1000 ventilator days (p-value 0.9819)]; median length of stay before VAP for pre- and COVID-19 periods was 17 and 10 days, respectively (p-value <0.0001). Extended-spectrum β lactamase (ESBL)-producing resistance increased significantly [1/27 (3.7%) pre-COVID-19 vs 15/53 (28.3%)] during COVID-19, while Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae resistance was higher in the pre-COVID-19 period (15/27 [56%] vs 10/53 [19%]). Mortality was high in both periods at 93% and 83%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, only female gender was associated with MDR VAP in the COVID-19 period (OR =3.47, [CI 1.019, 11.824], p-value < 0.047).

Conclusion:

The frequency of VAP and MDR VAP increased during the COVID-19 period, despite a shorter duration of hospital stay. The mortality of VAP was extremely high. Factors associated with increased risk of VAP and COVID-19 need to be studied further, and preventive measures should be prioritized.
Generalized Reynolds equation for microscale lubrication between eccentric circular cylinders based on kinetic theory
Authors: Doi Toshiyuki
Published: October 2023

A microscale lubrication flow of a gas between eccentric circular cylinders is studied on the basis of kinetic theory. The dimensionless curvature, defined by the mean clearance divided by the radius of the inner cylinder, is small, and the rotation speed of the inner cylinder is also small. The Knudsen number, defined by the mean free path divided by the mean clearance, is arbitrary. The Boltzmann equation is studied analytically using the slowly varying approximation following the method proposed in the author's previous study (Doi,Phys. Rev. Fluids, vol. 7, 2022, 034201). A macroscopic lubrication equation, which is a microscale generalization of the Reynolds lubrication equation, is derived. To assess this, a direct numerical analysis of the Boltzmann equation in a bipolar coordinate system is conducted using the Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook–Welander kinetic equation. It is demonstrated that the solution of the derived lubrication equation approximates that of the Boltzmann equation over a wide range of the eccentricity and the whole range of the Knudsen number. It is also demonstrated that another lubrication equation derived by a formal application of the slowly varying approximation produces a non-negligible error of the order of the square root of the dimensionless curvature for large Knudsen numbers.
Energy transfer and third-order law in forced anisotropic magneto-hydrodynamic turbulence with hyper-viscosity
Authors: Jiang Bin , Li Cheng , Yang Yan , Zhou Kangcheng , Matthaeus William H. , Wan Minping
Published: October 2023

The third-order law links energy transfer rates in the inertial range of magneto- hydrodynamic (MHD) turbulence with third-order structure functions. Anisotropy, a typical property in the solar wind, challenges the applicability of the third-order law with the isotropic assumption. To shed light on the energy transfer process in the presence of anisotropy, we conducted direct numerical simulations of forced MHD turbulence with normal and hyper-viscosity under various strengths of the external magnetic field (

$B_0$

), and calculated three forms of third-order structure function with or without averaging of the azimuthal or polar angles with respect to

$B_0$

direction. Correspondingly, three estimated energy transfer rates were obtained. The result shows that the peak of normalized third-order structure function occurs at larger scales closer to the

$B_0$

direction, and the maximum of longitudinal transfer rates shifts away from the

$B_0$

direction at larger

$B_0$

. Compared with normal viscous cases, hyper-viscous cases can attain better separated inertial range, thus facilitating the estimation of the energy cascade rates. We find that the widespread use of the isotropic form of the third-order law in estimating the energy transfer rates is questionable in some cases, especially when the anisotropy arising from the mean magnetic field is inevitable. In contrast, the direction-averaged third-order structure function properly accounts for the effect of anisotropy and predicts the energy transfer rates and inertial range accurately, even at very high

$B_0$

. With limited statistics, the third-order structure function shows a stronger dependence on averaging of azimuthal angles than the time, especially for high

$B_0$

cases. These findings provide insights into the anisotropic effect on the estimation of energy transfer rates.
Assessment of heat transfer and Mach number effects on high-speed turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Cogo Michele , Baù Umberto , Chinappi Mauro , Bernardini Matteo , Picano Francesco
Published: October 2023

High-speed vehicles experience a highly challenging environment in which the freestream Mach number and surface temperature greatly influence aerodynamic drag and heat transfer. The interplay of these two parameters strongly affects the near-wall dynamics of high-speed turbulent boundary layers (TBLs) in a non-trivial way, breaking similarity arguments on velocity and temperature fields, typically derived for adiabatic cases. We present direct numerical simulations of flat-plate zero-pressure-gradient TBLs spanning three freestream Mach numbers

$[2,4,6]$

and four wall temperature conditions (from adiabatic to very cold walls), emphasising the choice of the wall-cooling parameter to recover a similar flow organisation at different Mach numbers. We link qualitative observations on flow patterns to first- and second-order statistics to explain the decoupling of temperature–velocity fluctuations that occurs at reduced wall temperatures and high Mach numbers. For these cases, we discuss the formation of a secondary peak of thermal production in the viscous sublayer, which is in contrast with the monotonic behaviour of adiabatic profiles. We propose different physical mechanisms induced by wall-cooling and compressibility that result in apparently similar flow features, such as a higher peak in the streamwise velocity turbulence intensity, and distinct features, such as the separation of turbulent scales.
Historical occurrence of Antarctic icebergs within mercantile shipping routes and the exceptional events of the 1890s
Authors: Headland Robert Keith , Hughes Nicholas Edward , Wilkinson Jeremy Paul
Published: October 2023

A major consideration for maritime activity in the Southern Hemisphere is the northern limit of icebergs, or the Southern Ocean Limit Of Known Ice (SOLOKI). This analysis of historical reports of icebergs during Southern Hemisphere voyages from 1687 to 1933 provides a basis for examination of their geographical and chronological occurrence during ~250 years. The analyses use tabulated data from 742 voyages and other reports from many sources, some including first-person descriptions. While these data are dependent on icebergs being reported by mariners, as well as the variable frequency of voyages, they demonstrate distinct periods of exceptional frequency of icebergs occurring in certain localities, particularly the far South Atlantic. Based upon historical records the evidence suggests unprecedented numbers of icebergs were present in southern shipping channels in the 1890s. When these historical observations are combined with modern iceberg drift trajectories, their possible origin can be elucidated. Owing to the numbers of icebergs seen and their geographical spread, our results suggest that this was possibly the largest near-synchronous calvings in the last 300 years, and the northernmost extent of the SOLOKI.
On a time-changed variant of the generalized counting process
Authors: Khandakar M. , Kataria K. K.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we time-change the generalized counting process (GCP) by an independent inverse mixed stable subordinator to obtain a fractional version of the GCP. We call it the mixed fractional counting process (MFCP). The system of fractional differential equations that governs its state probabilities is obtained using the Z transform method. Its one-dimensional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, probability generating function, and factorial moments are obtained. It is shown that the MFCP exhibits the long-range dependence property whereas its increment process has the short-range dependence property. As an application we consider a risk process in which the claims are modelled using the MFCP. For this risk process, we obtain an asymptotic behaviour of its finite-time ruin probability when the claim sizes are subexponentially distributed and the initial capital is arbitrarily large. Later, we discuss some distributional properties of a compound version of the GCP.
STATIONARY REFLECTION AND THE FAILURE OF THE SCH
Authors: BEN-NERIA OMER , HAYUT YAIR , UNGER SPENCER
Published: October 2023

In this paper we prove that from large cardinals it is consistent that there is a singular strong limit cardinal
$\nu $
such that the singular cardinal hypothesis fails at
$\nu $
and every collection of fewer than
$\operatorname {\mathrm {cf}}(\nu )$
stationary subsets of
$\nu ^{+}$
reflects simultaneously. For
$\operatorname {\mathrm {cf}}(\nu )> \omega $
, this situation was not previously known to be consistent. Using different methods, we reduce the upper bound on the consistency strength of this situation for
$\operatorname {\mathrm {cf}}(\nu ) = \omega $
to below a single partially supercompact cardinal. The previous upper bound of infinitely many supercompact cardinals was due to Sharon.
Differential Harnack estimates for a weighted nonlinear parabolic equation under a super Perelman–Ricci flow and implications
Authors: Taheri Ali , Vahidifar Vahideh
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we derive new differential Harnack estimates of Li–Yau type for positive smooth solutions to a class of nonlinear parabolic equations in the form

\[ {\mathscr L}_\phi^{\mathsf a} [w]:= \left[ \frac{\partial}{\partial t} - \mathsf{a}(x,t) - \Delta_\phi \right] w (x,t) = \mathscr G(t, x, w(x,t)), \quad t>0, \]

on smooth metric measure spaces where the metric and potential are time dependent and evolve under a

$({\mathsf k},\, m)$

-super Perelman–Ricci flow. A number of consequences, most notably, a parabolic Harnack inequality, a class of Hamilton type global curvature-free estimates and a general Liouville type theorem together with some consequences are established. Some special cases are presented to illustrate the strength of the results.
Arens regularity of ideals of the group algebra of a compact Abelian group
Authors: Esmailvandi Reza , Filali Mahmoud , Galindo Jorge
Published: October 2023

Let

$G$

be a compact Abelian group and

$E$

a subset of the group

$\widehat {G}$

of continuous characters of

$G$

. We study Arens regularity-related properties of the ideals

$L_E^1(G)$

of

$L^1(G)$

that are made of functions whose Fourier transform is supported on

$E\subseteq \widehat {G}$

. Arens regularity of

$L_E^1(G)$

, the centre of

$L_E^1(G)^{\ast \ast }$

and the size of

$L_E^1(G)^\ast /\mathcal {WAP}(L_E^1(G))$

are studied. We establish general conditions for the regularity of

$L_E^1(G)$

and deduce from them that

$L_E^1(G)$

is not strongly Arens irregular if

$E$

is a small-2 set (i.e.

$\mu \ast \mu \in L^1(G)$

for every

$\mu \in M_E^1(G)$

), which is not a

$\Lambda (1)$

-set, and it is extremely non-Arens regular if

$E$

is not a small-2 set. We deduce also that

$L_E^1(G)$

is not Arens regular when

$\widehat {G}\setminus E$

is a Lust-Piquard set.
PARTITIONS OF NATURAL NUMBERS AND THEIR WEIGHTED REPRESENTATION FUNCTIONS
Authors: LI SHUANG-SHUANG , SHAN YU-QING , YAN XIAO-HUI
Published: October 2023

For any positive integers
$k_1,k_2$
and any set
$A\subseteq \mathbb {N}$
, let
$R_{k_1,k_2}(A,n)$
be the number of solutions of the equation
$n=k_1a_1+k_2a_2$
with
$a_1,a_2\in A$
. Let g be a fixed integer. We prove that if
$k_1$
and
$k_2$
are two integers with
$2\le k_1<k_2$
and
$(k_1,k_2)=1$
, then there does not exist any set
$A\subseteq \mathbb {N}$
such that
$R_{k_1,k_2}(A,n)-R_{k_1,k_2}(\mathbb {N}\setminus A,n)=g$
for all sufficiently large integers n, and if
$1=k_1<k_2$
, then there exists a set A such that
$R_{k_1,k_2}(A,n)-R_{k_1,k_2}(\mathbb {N}\setminus A,n)=1$
for all positive integers n.
Promotion of improved intestinal barrier health by soybean-derived bioactive peptides in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) fed a low fishmeal diet
Authors: Jiang Kemeng , Liu Bo , Sun Cunxin , Zhou Qunlan , Zheng Xiaochuan , Liu Mingyang , Xu Gangchun , Jin Wu , Tian Hongyan , Hu He
Published: October 2023

To alleviate the growth inhibition, and intestinal damage of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) induced by low fishmeal diets (LF), an 8-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the addition of dietary soybean-derived bioactive peptides (SBP) in LF diets on the regulation of growth, digestion and intestinal health. The crabs were fed isonitrogenous and isoenergetic conventional diet and LF diets (10 % fishmeal replaced by soybean meal, LF) supplemented with 0, 1 %, 2 %, 4 % and 6 % SBP, respectively. The results showed that LF diet inhibited growth while inclusion of SBP quadratically remitted the growth inhibition induced by LF. For digestive function, increasing addition level of SBP quadratically improved the α-amylase and trypsin activities. For antioxidant function, LF group significantly increased the malondialdehyde content, while SBP linearly decreased the malondialdehyde level and cubically increased the anti-superoxide anion activity and total antioxidant capacity level. For intestinal health, the peritrophic membrane (PM) almost completely separated from the inner wall of the intestinal lumen, the epithelial cells reduced, the muscularis became thinner and the apoptotic signals increased in LF group; with SBP addition, the intestinal morphology was improved, with the PM adhering to the inner wall of the intestinal lumen, an increase in the number of epithelial cells and an increase in the thickness of the muscularis. Additionally, there was a decrease in apoptotic signals. Dietary SBP also increased the expression of PT and Crustin1 quadratically and decreased the expression of ALF1 linearly, ALF3 and ILF2 quadratically.
Autocorrelations of characteristic polynomials for the Alternative Circular Unitary Ensemble
Authors: Rodgers Brad , Vallabhaneni Harshith Sai
Published: October 2023

We find closed formulas for arbitrarily high mixed moments of characteristic polynomials of the Alternative Circular Unitary Ensemble, as well as closed formulas for the averages of ratios of characteristic polynomials in this ensemble. A comparison is made to analogous results for the Circular Unitary Ensemble. Both moments and ratios are studied via symmetric function theory and a general formula of Borodin-Olshanski-Strahov.
CHALLENGING THE USE OF EXTERNAL SOURCES BY THE INTER-AMERICAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: Garcia Maia Tainá
Published: October 2023

This article challenges the justification usually offered by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights for its broad use of external sources when engaging in evolutive interpretation of the American Convention on Human Rights (ACHR). It analyses the Court's jurisprudence concerning international humanitarian law, the rights of the child, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual and intersex (LGBTI) rights, in addition to drawing on interviews conducted with lawyers of the Court. It argues that the discursive strategy used by the Court to justify its ‘import’ of external sources fails to provide a complete normative justification and remains open to the charge of ‘cherry-picking’. The article recommends that the Court tailors its discursive strategy to the specific type of external sources used and suggests that more attention be paid to searching for internationalized consensus when determining the relevance of non-binding sources to evolutive interpretation of the ACHR.
THE RIGHT TO A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT BEFORE THE INTER-AMERICAN COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: Mardikian Lisa
Published: October 2023

The article explores the interpretation of the right to a healthy environment by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights as an autonomous right under the American Convention on Human Rights. It places this development in the context of transformative constitutionalism in Latin America and examines it against the background of the Court's broader case law. The article argues that, even though this is an important judicial innovation, there are three challenges with the approach of the Court. The first relates to the individual and collective dimensions of the right; the second to the link between this development and the Court's previous jurisprudence; and the third to the corresponding reparations. The last part of the article seeks to explore ways in which the Court could offer further guidance on the contours of the right and its relationship with civil and political rights.
The Transportation Revolution and the English Coal Industry, 1695–1842: A Geographical Approach
Authors: Allen Robert C.
Published: October 2023

Cross sections of coal prices in England for 1695, 1795, and 1842 are used to infer transportation rates by sea, river, canal, and road. The effectiveness of monopolies, the degree of market integration, and the patterns of regional supply of each mining district are then established. The growth rates of productivity in sea, river, and road transport from 1695–1842 are computed and combined with a social savings assessment of canals to measure the overall growth in the productivity of shipping coal. Productivity growth was substantial but had a surprisingly limited impact on the geography of production and consumption.
Do Underwriters Short-Change Corporations Issuing Bonds?
Authors: Goh Jeremy C. , Yang Lisa (Zongfei)
Published: October 2023

We confirm prior evidence that bonds on average are offered at prices below their immediate post-offer secondary market prices. However, in cases where banks lead–manage their own bond offerings the underpricing is significantly less as compared with other non-self-marketed offerings. These findings are robust across various matched samples and selection models. Our results suggest that the bond offering process is characterized by substantive agency conflicts between shareholders of corporations (issuers) and underwriters.
Nutrition and immunity: lessons from coronavirus disease-2019
Authors: Calder Philip C.
Published: October 2023

This review will provide an overview of the immune system and then describe the effects of frailty, obesity, specific micronutrients and the gut microbiota on immunity and susceptibility to infection including data from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic where relevant. A key role for the immune system is providing host defence against pathogens. Impaired immunity predisposes to infections and to more severe infections and weakens the response to vaccination. A range of nutrients, including many micronutrients, play important roles in supporting the immune system to function. The immune system can decline in later life and this is exaggerated by frailty. The immune system is also weakened with obesity, generalised undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, which all result in increased susceptibility to infection. Findings obtained during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic support what was already known about the effects of ageing, frailty and obesity on immunity and susceptibility to infection. Observational studies conducted during the pandemic also support previous findings that multiple micronutrients including vitamins C, D and E, zinc and selenium and long-chain n-3 fatty acids are important for immune health, but whether these nutrients can be used to treat those already with coronavirus disease discovered in 2019 (COVID-19), particularly if already hospitalised, is uncertain from current inconsistent or scant evidence. There is gut dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19 and studies with probiotics report clinical improvements in such patients. There is an inverse association between adherence to a healthy diet and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalisation with COVID-19 which is consistent with the effects of individual nutrients and other dietary components. Addressing frailty, obesity and micronutrient insufficiency will be important to reduce the burden of future pandemics and nutritional considerations need to be a central part of the approach to preventing infections, optimising vaccine responses and promoting recovery from infection.
Traditional culture and fine arts on posttraumatic stress disorder students
Authors: Gao Yang
Published: October 2023

Background

Car accidents have a serious impact on the physical health and mental state of patients, leading to traumatic stress disorder. A good environment is beneficial for students to cultivate healthy and sound personalities, and has a positive impact on their mental health. Traditional culture and artistic environment can effectively alleviate patients’ anxiety.

Subjects and Methods

The study selected a total of 98 students with traumatic stress disorder caused by car accidents from our hospital from January to December 2022 as the study subjects. The selected research subjects were divided into two groups: the control group and the experimental group. There was no significant difference in age, gender, etc. between the two groups of students (P>0.05). The experimental group received intervention using environmental therapy combined with general treatment, while the control group received routine intervention treatment.

Results

The study used SPSS23.0 statistical software for data analysis, and the results showed that there was no significant difference in the total PCL-L scores between the two groups of patients before the intervention (P>0.05). After the intervention, the scores and scores of both groups decreased, and the experimental group was lower than the control group (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Traditional culture and art environment influence psychological intervention, which starts from various aspects such as psychological and physiological support, active care and encouragement of injured patients to express their feelings, and release and relax treatment, comprehensively improves patients’ understanding of the disease, enhances their treatment compliance, and improves their psychological state.
The alleviative effect of acupuncture combined with cognitive behavioral therapy on anxiety of accounting personnel
Authors: Ji Xiaoli
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aims to investigate the alleviating effect of Acupuncture combined with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on anxiety disorders among accounting professionals in the financial sharing services model. Anxiety disorders are prevalent among accounting professionals due to the high-pressure work environment, and effective interventions are essential to mitigate their negative impact.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 120 accounting professionals working in the financial sharing services model were recruited for this study. They were randomly divided into three groups: the Acupuncture combined with CBT group (n=40), the CBT alone group (n=40), and the control group (n=40). The participants’ anxiety levels were measured using the Stanford Acute Stress Response Questionnaire (SASRQ) and the 3-min Confusion Assessment Scale (3D-CAM). The intervention was conducted over a period of six weeks, with regular sessions once a week.

Results

Statistical analysis using SPSS23.0 revealed a significant reduction in anxiety levels in both the Acupuncture combined with CBT group and the CBT alone group compared to the control group (P<0.001). However, the Acupuncture combined with CBT group exhibited a more substantial decrease in anxiety symptoms compared to the CBT alone group (P<0.05), as measured by the SASRQ and 3D-CAM. These results suggest that the combination therapy has a more significant effect on alleviating anxiety disorders among accounting professionals.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the efficacy of acupuncture combined with CBT in reducing anxiety disorders among accounting professionals in the financial shared service model. These findings highlight the importance of combining complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, with established psychological interventions to achieve more comprehensive treatment outcomes.

Acknowledgement

The 2017 Shaanxi Provincial Department of Education project (No. 17JK0942); The 2021 Xi’an Social Science Planning Fund project (No. JX163); The 2022 Shaanxi International Business School Science and Technology Innovation Team Construction Project (No. 2022KYTD05).
The life impact of mindfulness training on employees with mental anxiety disorders
Authors: Han Tao , Kang Dongwei , Han Ying , Liu Yuxuan
Published: October 2023

Background

Mindfulness training helps employees better cope with work and life stress by enhancing individual attention and self-awareness. At the same time, mindfulness training can help employees accept and tolerate their emotions and experiences, improve their self-efficacy and self-acceptance ability, and thus reduce anxiety.

Subjects and Methods

A survey was conducted on 20 employees of a listed company in a specific city, and 20 questionnaires were collected, including 13 males and seven females. There were 6 cases with obvious anxiety symptoms, ten subjects with mild anxiety, and four without anxiety symptoms. Sixteen employees with anxiety symptoms were selected as the experimental group and received psychological intervention treatment using mindfulness training. Three months later, they were re-evaluated using the Anxiety Self Rating Scale. The effectiveness of the intervention treatment was statistically analyzed using SPSS23.0 software.

Results

After treatment, the experimental group of employees showed significant improvement in anxiety levels, with six recovered, eight significantly improved, and two not recovered. There was a statistically significant difference between the control and patient groups, with P values less than 0.05.

Conclusions

The overall education level of the company’s employees is relatively high, accompanied by work pressure, interpersonal relationships, and family relationships, leading to anxiety symptoms among employees. Mindfulness training can improve employees’ emotional regulation and coping abilities and promote positive emotions and psychological states.

Acknowledgement

Social Science Foundation of Hebei Province (No.HB22GL037); New Liberal Arts Research and Reform Practice Project of the Ministry of Education (No.2021120010); National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.71862013).
National music culture inheritance and music education on college students’ anxiety
Authors: Huo Weiyi
Published: October 2023

Background

This study examines the impact of ethnic music culture inheritance and music education on anxiety levels among college students. Anxiety is a prevalent issue affecting college students. Exploring the potential influence of ethnic music culture and music education could provide insights into effective interventions to address anxiety among this population.

Subjects and Methods

The study involved a sample of 200 college students from different ethnic backgrounds, aged 18 to 25, studying at a university. Participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group (n=100) and the control group (n=100). The experimental group received ethnic music culture inheritance classes and music education programs, while the control group proceeded with their regular curriculum. Assessments of anxiety levels were conducted using standardized psychological scales, including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS). The intervention period lasted for one academic semester.

Results

Analysis using SPSS23.0 showed that the experimental group, which received ethnic music culture inheritance and music education, exhibited significantly lower anxiety levels compared to the control group (P<0.001). Both the STAI and DASS scores demonstrated a 30% reduction in anxiety symptoms among the experimental group, indicating the positive impact of ethnic music culture inheritance and music education on reducing anxiety among college students.

Conclusions

The results show that incorporating ethnic music cultural inheritance and music education into university curricula can effectively reduce students’ anxiety levels. The integration of cultural elements and music education not only promotes the preservation of national music culture but also contributes to the mental health of students.
Psychological counseling on the anxiety of technical personnel
Authors: Liu Chen , Zhu Yanling , Xie Jiemeng , Lin Minjie
Published: October 2023

Background

Anxiety disorder is a common psychological disorder, manifested as excessive worry, fear, fear and other emotions, seriously affect the quality of life of patients. The therapeutic methods of psychological counseling include cognitive behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic therapy and so on. Compared with drug treatment, psychological counseling does not produce drug dependence, fewer side effects, and good long-term effects. This study is based on psychological counseling to explore the anxiety of technical personnel in strategic emerging industries in Fujian province, China.

Subjects and Methods

In this study, 338 technical personnel in strategic emerging industries in Fujian Province were selected as the research subjects and divided into experimental groups and control groups with same number. The control group did not take any intervention measures, and the experimental group received psychological counseling. The scores of Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), Wechsler Adult Intelligence Test (WAIS-RC) and Health Survey Summary Form (SF-36) were compared between the two groups. T-test was performed on the measurement data.

Results

Before the experiment, there was no significant difference in SAS and SDS scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). After the experiment, SAS and SDS scores of the experimental group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of verbal comprehension, memory and attention in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of physiological function, mental function, mental health and vitality of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05).

Reply: Thank you for pointing out this issue. We have rewritten the methods and results section of another article.

Conclusions

Psychological counseling can effectively alleviate the anxiety of technical personnel in strategic emerging industries in Fujian Province and improve their quality of life.

Acknowledgement

Xiamen Institute of Technology 2023 University-level Research Fund Project (No.KYZX2023028); The 2022 “I contribute good ideas to the construction of A New Fujian” (No.JAT22128).
FAITHFULNESS OF THE 2-BRAID GROUP VIA ZIGZAG ALGEBRA IN TYPE B
Authors: HENG EDMUND , NGE KIE SENG
Published: October 2023

We show that a certain category of bimodules over a finite-dimensional quiver algebra known as a type B zigzag algebra is a quotient category of the category of type B Soergel bimodules. This leads to an alternate proof of Rouquier’s conjecture on the faithfulness of the 2-braid groups for type B.
Climate Crisis and Social Protection - From Worker Protection to Post-growth Transformation?
Authors: Nenning Larissa , Bridgen Paul , Zimmermann Katharina , Büchs Milena , Mesiäislehto Merita
Published: October 2023

The article discusses five literature strands’ approaches towards social protection systems in the context of climate crisis: Adaptive Social Protection, Just Transition, Green New Deal, Post-growth, and Eco-feminism. As we argue, these five strands are located on a spectrum between a green growth orientation and a green anti-capitalist orientation. Furthermore, they differ in terms of their problematisation of the climate crisis and have different perspectives on relevant actors, on world regions, and – most relevant in the context of social welfare – their conceptualisation of social protection. While Adaptive Social Protection emphasizes cash transfers and insurances, Green New Deal and Just Transition approaches focus more on redistribution and labour market policies, and Post-growth and Eco-feminist approaches more on universalist policies and systems. We argue that these literatures each have their weaknesses, but also offer urgent questions, concepts, and insights for further social policy research.
Freeing Chinese Men on the María Luz: Gender and the Latin American Coolie Trade
Authors: Tinsman Heidi
Published: October 2023

This essay analyzes a Japanese court’s criminal conviction of a Peruvian shipmaster for abusing Chinese contract workers and the subsequent release of all Chinese passengers except a lone girl. Using the case as a lens onto gender dynamics within the coolie trade to Latin America, I argue that overlapping patriarchal practices made Chinese contract labor overwhelming male and prioritized men in debates over freedom. The María Luz trials upheld women’s domestic sexual bondage while condemning men’s enslavement.