bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly excited B, Bs and Bc meson spectroscopy from lattice QCD
Authors: Gayer Luke , Ryan Sinéad M. , Wilson David J. ,   for the Hadron Spectrum collaboration
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Excited state spectra of B, B

s
and B

c
mesons are computed using lattice QCD. Working with a large basis of carefully constructed, approximately-local

$$ q\overline{q} $$

q

q
¯

-like operators we determine a rich spectrum of states up to J = 4 in B, B

s
and B

c
, that can be grouped into patterns matching those of the quark model. In addition, hybrid-like states are identified at approximately 1500 MeV above the ground states in each of B, B

s
and B

c
, in a multiplet pattern already found in similar computations at a range of quark masses spanning light to bottom. This study is performed using an anisotropic, relativistic Wilson-clover action at a single spatial lattice spacing of a

s
≈ 0.12 fm and with a light-quark mass corresponding to m

π
≈ 391 MeV. We find good agreement with experimental results where known and discuss prospects for further work in interesting J

P
quantum numbers.
Erratum to: On universal splittings of tree-level particle and string scattering amplitudes
Authors: Cao Qu , Dong Jin , He Song , Shi Canxin , Zhu Fanky
Published: February 2025

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP09(2024)049
β symmetry of heterotic supergravity
Authors: Baron Walter H. , Núñez Carmen A. , Rodríguez Jesús A.
Published: February 2025

Abstract

The low energy effective action describing the Kaluza-Klein reduction of string theory on a d-torus possesses a continuous O(d, d) global symmetry. The non-geometric piece of this symmetry, parameterized by a bi-vector β, was recently shown to effectively act as a hidden symmetry on the massless RR and universal NSNS fields of the ten dimensional parent theory, fixing their couplings. Here we extend the analysis of this symmetry to the massless gauge and fermion fields of heterotic supergravity. While the interactions of the boson fields are univocally fixed by β symmetry, we find four bilinear and two quartic β invariant combinations of fermions whose relative coefficients in the action must be determined by supersymmetry. Although not fully fixed, bilinear and quartic fermion couplings are strongly restricted by β symmetry at leading order in α

′
.
Massive bigravity as a presymplectic BV-AKSZ sigma-model
Authors: Grigoriev Maxim , Gritzaenko Vyacheslav
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We propose a presymplectic BV-AKSZ sigma model encoding the ghost-free massive bigravity theory action as well as its Batalin-Vilkovisky extension in terms of the finite-dimensional graded geometry of the target space. A characteristic feature of the construction is that the target space is realised as a quasi-regular submanifold of a linear graded manifold which, in turn, is a direct product of two copies of the shifted Poincaré or (anti-)de Sitter Lie algebra. This graded manifold comes equipped with a natural presymplectcic structure and the compatible pre-Q structure which is a sum of the Chevalley-Eilenberg differentials of each copy of the Lie algebra and the interaction term. The constraints determining the submanifold are the supergeometrical realisation of the known Deser-van Nieuwenhuizen condition and its descendant.
Chiral higher-spin double copy
Authors: Ponomarev Dmitry
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We construct the double copy of the chiral higher-spin theory. It is a Lorentz invariant theory with the little group spectrum given by the tensor square of the chiral higher-spin theory spectrum. Moreover, its interactions factorise in close analogy with the way interactions factorise in lower-spin double-copy theories. We also propose theories, which can be viewed as products of self-dual Yang-Mills theory, self-dual gravity and chiral higher-spin theories taken in different combinations and powers.
Moments of axial-vector GPD from lattice QCD: quark helicity, orbital angular momentum, and spin-orbit correlation
Authors: Bhattacharya Shohini , Cichy Krzysztof , Constantinou Martha , Gao Xiang , Metz Andreas , Miller Joshua , Mukherjee Swagato , Petreczky Peter , Steffens Fernanda , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In this work, we present a lattice QCD calculation of the Mellin moments of the twist-2 axial-vector generalized parton distribution (GPD),

$$ \overset{\sim }{H}\left(x,\xi, t\right) $$

H
~

x
ξ
t

, at zero skewness, ξ, with multiple values of the momentum transfer, t. Our analysis employs the short-distance factorization framework on ratio-scheme renormalized quasi-GPD matrix elements. The calculations are based on an N

f
= 2 + 1 + 1 twisted mass fermions ensemble with clover improvement, a lattice spacing of a = 0.093 fm, and a pion mass of m

π
= 260 MeV. We consider both the iso-vector and iso-scalar cases, utilizing next-to-leading-order perturbative matching while omitting the disconnected contributions and gluon mixing in the iso-scalar case. For the first time, we determine the Mellin moments of

$$ \overset{\sim }{H} $$

H
~

up to the fifth order. From these moments, we discuss the quark helicity and orbital angular momentum contributions to the nucleon spin, as well as the spin-orbit correlations of the quarks. Additionally, we perform a Fourier transform over the momentum transfer, which allows us to explore the spin structure in the impact-parameter space.
Thermal correlators and currents of the $$ {\mathcal{W}}_3 $$ algebra
Authors: Ashok Sujay K. , Parihar Sanhita , Sengupta Tanmoy , Sudhakar Adarsh , Tateo Roberto
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Two dimensional conformal field theories with the extended

$$ {\mathcal{W}}_3 $$

W
3

symmetry algebra have an infinite number of mutually commuting conserved charges, which are referred to as the quantum Boussinesq charges. In this work we construct local operators whose zero modes are precisely these conserved charges. For this purpose we study the higher spin conformal field theory on the torus and compute thermal correlators involving the stress tensor and the spin-3 current in a higher spin module of the

$$ {\mathcal{W}}_3 $$

W
3

algebra. In addition we independently obtain the excited state eigenvalues of the quantum Boussinesq charges within the higher spin module via the ODE/IM correspondence. A judicious combination of these data allows us to derive the local operators, whose integrals are the conserved charges of the integrable hierarchy.
Singlet-doublet fermionic dark matter in gauge theory of baryons
Authors: Taramati  , Sahu Rameswar , Patel Utkarsh , Ghosh Kirtiman , Patra Sudhanwa
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We are considering a minimal U(1)
B
extension of the Standard Model (SM) by promoting the baryon number as a local gauge symmetry to accommodate a stable dark matter (DM) candidate. The gauge theory of baryons induces non-trivial triangle gauge anomalies, and we provide a simple anomaly-free solution by adding three exotic fermions. A scalar S spontaneously breaks the U(1)
B
symmetry, leaving behind a discrete Z
2 symmetry that ensures the stability of the lightest exotic fermion originally introduced to cancel the triangle gauge anomalies. Scenarios with weakly interacting DM candidates having non-zero hypercharge usually face stringent constraints from experimental bounds on the DM spin-independent direct-detection (SIDD) cross-section. In this work, we consider a two-component singlet-doublet fermionic dark matter scenario, which significantly relaxes the constraints from bounds on the DM SIDD cross-section for suppressed single-doublet mixing. We show that the model offers a viable parameter space for a cosmologically consistent DM candidate that can be probed through direct detection searches, collider experiments, and gravitational wave (GW) experiments.
Finite cut-off JT and Liouville quantum gravities on the disk at one loop
Authors: Chaudhuri Soumyadeep , Ferrari Frank
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Within the path integral formalism, we compute the disk partition functions of two dimensional Liouville and JT quantum gravity theories coupled to a matter CFT of central charge c, with cosmological constant Λ, in the limit c → −∞, |Λ| → ∞, for fixed Λ/c and fixed and finite disk boundary length ℓ, to leading and first subleading order in the 1/|c| expansion. In the case of Liouville theory, we find perfect agreement with the asymptotic expansion of the known exact FZZT partition function. In the case of JT gravity, we obtain the first explicit results for the partition functions at finite cut-off, in the three versions (negative, zero and positive curvature) of the model. Our findings are in agreement with predictions from the recent proposal for a microscopic definition of JT gravity, including the c → −∞ expansion of the Hausdorff dimension of the boundary. In the negative curvature case, we also provide evidence for the emergence of an effective Schwarzian description at length scales much greater than the curvature length scale.
Thermal axion production at hard and soft momenta
Authors: Bouzoud Killian , Ghiglieri Jacopo
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Hot axions, thermally produced in the Early Universe, would contribute to dark radiation and are thus subject to present and future constraints from N
eff. In this paper we quantify the contribution to N
eff and its uncertainty in models with axion-gluon couplings from thermal dynamics above the QCD transition. In more detail, we determine the leading-order thermal axion production rate for axion momenta of the order of the temperature adopting three different schemes for the incorporation of the collective dynamics of soft gluons. We show how these three schemes extrapolate differently into the regime of softer axion production, thus giving us a first quantitative handle on the theory uncertainty of the rate. Upon solving the Boltzmann equation, we find that this theory uncertainty translates to an uncertainty of order 0.002 for the contribution to N
eff prior to the QCD crossover. The uncertainty from common momentum-averaged approximations to the Boltzmann equation is smaller. We also discuss how QCD transition dynamics would need to be integrated into our results and we show how existing rate determinations in the literature based on gauge-dependent resummations are problematic.
Study of charged Lepton Flavor Violation in electron muon interactions
Authors: Ding Ran , Li Jingshu , Lu Meng , You Zhengyun , Wang Zijian , Li Qiang
Published: February 2025

Abstract

With the improvement of muon acceleration technology, it has received great interests to exploit high-energy muon beams for collision or target experiments. We investigate the possible charged Lepton Flavor Violation (cLFV) processes mediated by an extra massive neutral gauge boson Z′ in electron muon interactions, either at a proposed electron muon collider or in a fixed target experiment with high-energy muon beam hitting electrons in the target. Based on Monte Carlo calculations and fast detector simulations, we study in detail the signal and possible backgrounds, giving the sensitivity results of cLFV signals at the 90% confidence level. Compared with the current and prospective limits set by other experiments, electron muon interactions demonstrate significant advantages in the cLFV coupling strength sensitivity with τ in the final states. In addition, a special cLFV coupling combination, λ

eμ

× λ

μμ
, can also be probed in our proposal.
A heterotic Kähler gravity and the distance conjecture
Authors: Murgas Ibarra Javier José , Oehlmann Paul-Konstantin , Ruehle Fabian , Svanes Eirik Eik
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Deformations of the heterotic superpotential give rise to a topological holomorphic theory with similarities to both Kodaira-Spencer gravity and holomorphic Chern-Simons theory. Although the action is cubic, it is only quadratic in the complex structure deformations (the Beltrami differential). Treated separately, for large fluxes, or alternatively at large distances in the background complex structure moduli space, these fields can be integrated out to obtain a new field theory in the remaining fields, which describe the complexified hermitian and gauge degrees of freedom. We investigate properties of this new holomorphic theory, and in particular connections to the swampland distance conjecture in the context of heterotic string theory. In the process, we define a new type of symplectic cohomology theory, where the background complex structure Beltrami differential plays the role of the symplectic form.
Super Yang-Mills action from Hybrid Superstring Field Theory
Authors: Portugal Ulisses M.
Published: February 2025

Abstract

We explicitly compute the effective action from Open Superstring Field Theory in the hybrid formalism to quartic order in the α′ → 0 limit, and show that it reproduces ten-dimensional Super Yang-Mills in terms of four-dimensional superfields. We also show that in this limit the gauge transformations coincide with SYM to all orders, which means that the effective action should reproduce SYM to all orders.
A vestige of FZZ duality in higher dimensions
Authors: Krishnan Chethan , Talukdar Sarthak
Published: February 2025

Abstract

In 1+1 dimensions, the equations of motion of the Horowitz-Polchinski (HP) effective string have a re-writing in terms of a first order system. This is attributed to FZZ duality. In this note, we observe that a similar re-writing exists in higher dimensions, so that the degree of the dilaton-winding subsystem reduces to first order. The 1+1 first order equations emerge as a natural limit of the higher dimensional HP system in the cap region of the cigar. As a result, there is a critical value of the winding amplitude that matches with the 1+1 coset SCFT prediction. At this critical point, the cigar has a puncture at the Euclidean horizon and the higher dimensional black hole entropy is correctly reproduced by the winding condensate.
Myxoid liposarcoma: treatment outcomes, metastatic pattern and volumetric analysis
Authors: Potkrajcic Vlatko , Zschiegner Merle , Niyazi Maximilian , Warm Verena , Thiel Johannes Tobias , Frantz Sandra , Deinzer Christoph K. W. , Szelat Franziska , Hoffmann Elgin , Paulsen Frank , Eckert Franziska
Published: February 2025

Background

Myxoid liposarcoma (MLPS) is a rare subtype of soft tissue sarcoma. This entity has a specific clinical behavior, characterized with a distinct pattern of hematogenous spread, as well as with a unique radiosensitivity and chemosensitivity. Oncologic results, metastatic patterns and treatment response after multimodal therapy were evaluated in a unicentric patient cohort.

Methods

Patients with myxoid liposarcoma were retrospectively analyzed in a single institution analysis (n = 31). Oncologic outcomes were evaluated in 28 patients with localized MLPS treated with multimodal therapy in curative intent. Metastatic pattern was analyzed in additional 3 patients with initially metastatic disease. In patients treated with concomitant MR-guided hyperthermia in the preoperative setting (n = 7), tumor size response was evaluated longitudinally during radio(-chemo)therapy in thermometry MRIs and before surgery (based on preoperative imaging).

Results

The median follow-up was 4.1 ± 1.0 years. The most common anatomic localization was the lower extremity (78.6%). The 5‑year rates for oncologic outcomes in 28 patients treated in curative intent were 91.7% (± 8.0%) for overall survival (OS), 77.4% (± 11.0%) for local control (LC), 60.1% (± 10.6%) for distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) and 55.4% (± 11.1%) for disease free survival (DFS). Excellent 5‑year LC (94.7 ± 5.1%) was demonstrated for the cohort excluding 5 patients treated for local recurrences. Most patients had good pathologic response (< 10% vital tumor tissue) following neoadjuvant treatment (82.4%, 14/17). However, this did not correlate with oncologic outcomes. A specific pattern of distant metastases has been observed, with predilection for soft tissues as the most common metastatic site. Furthermore, no isolated pulmonary metastases were observed. The MR analysis demonstrated a significant tumor size reduction (≥ 25%) of the initial tumor volume in 85.7% (n = 6/7) patients. No local recurrences and no distant metastases were observed in patients with significant MR size reduction.

Conclusion

Sequential MRIs during preoperative radiotherapy of myxoid liposarcoma show distinct patterns of the known size reduction of this specific subentity. Our analysis of metastatic patterns demonstrate mostly soft tissue metastases, no patient experienced isolated pulmonary metastases.
Misconceptions about intimate partner violence risk assessment algorithm in the Basque Country: a reply to Valdivia, Hyde-Vaamonde, and García-Marcos (2024)
Authors: Loinaz Ismael
Published: February 2025

Violence risk assessment is an internationally recognised methodology, aimed to manage different forms of violence. Most risk assessment tools, as is the case of the reviewed one, are designed to protect victims in the context of pressure, little time, or little information. This paper presents a reply to Valdivia et al. (AI & Society, July 2024) criticism of the algorithm for intimate partner violence risk assessment—EPV—used in the Basque Country. They concluded that more than 50% of high-risk victims are in danger, using results from a pilot version of the instrument, not the reviewed one published in 2010, nor the system in use since May 2013. In addition, qualitative information from a single professional generates global criticisms of the tool. Neither the current cut-off points nor the real weighting of the items nor the real risk management procedure are considered, and the personal opinion of a judge is assumed to be better than the use of tools when the accumulated research shows the opposite. When EPV risk assessment reports are used in courts, they may only temporarily affect some perpetrator rights, imposing restraining orders or, in the worst case, pretrial prison waiting for sentence. However, risk management can save the life of the victim. Cautions and suggestions related to the judicial context, such as improving risk reports or training judicial professionals, are shared. However, Valdivia et al.’s paper leads to misconceptions that extend to different sectors when echoing the wrong conclusions of their paper.
Requirements for fast multianalyte detection and characterisation via electrochemical-assisted SERS in a reusable and easily manufactured flow cell
Authors: Blaha Maximilian E. , Das Anish , Belder Detlev
Published: February 2025

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive analytical technique that captures vibrational spectra of analytes adsorbed to rough coin metal surfaces with remarkable signal intensities. However, its wider application is limited by challenges in substrate range, quantification, and the disposable nature of SERS substrates partly due to irreversible analyte adsorption—commonly referred to as the ‘memory effect’. Overcoming these limitations and achieving real-time analysis in flow-through systems remains a key challenge for the advancement of SERS. This study presents a SERS flow cell incorporating an Ag-based SERS substrate and a Pt counter-electrode, enabling the investigation of how electrochemical methods can address existing challenges. Our approach demonstrates that signal intensities can be both enhanced and spectroelectrochemically modified. Additionally, the combination of constant solvent flow and electrochemical potentials enhances the longevity of the SERS substrate, facilitating multianalyte measurements while mitigating the memory effect. Key parameters have been systematically studied, including SERS substrate materials (silver and copper), solvents, buffers, supporting electrolytes, and electrochemical protocols. We achieved consistent and reproducible electrochemical tuning of SERS signals by using halogen-free electrolytes in polar solvents commonly used in techniques like HPLC. The versatility of the system was validated through the analysis of several model compounds and the sequential detection of multiple analytes. We also successfully applied the system to detect and characterise contaminants and pharmaceuticals, highlighting its potential for a wide range of analytical applications.

Graphical Abstract
Comparative study of outcomes with total knee arthroplasty: medial pivot prosthesis vs posterior stabilized implant. Prospective randomized control
Authors: Obada Bogdan , Iliescu Madalina Gabriela , Costea Dan Ovidiu , Petcu Lucian , Popescu Andrei Ion
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an effective procedure for pain relief and restoration of function in patients with symptomatic end-stage knee arthritis. Kinematic problems due to conventional implant design have been postulated. The objective of this study is to determine if there was any difference in postoperative ROM and outcomes between patients undergoing MP-TKA vs PS-TKA.

Methods

We prospectively colected the records of 600 consecutive patients with TKA performed by six senior orthopaedic surgeons between 2017 - 2021. We compared the ROM and patient-reported outcomes (Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index WOMAC, Oxford Knee Score OKS, Knee Society Score KSS, Forgotten Joint Score FJS) between MP TKA and PS TKA.

Results

There were no specific criteria for implant selection as the two groups were consecutive cohorts of patients and implant selection depended on surgeon preference. Demographics, comorbidities, diagnosis and severity of osteoarthritis were similar between MP and PS groups. The trend for OKS in our study is the same in both groups, but with higher mean values in the MP group. The trend of WOMAC pain, stiffness and disability score is the same in both groups, but with higher mean values in the PS group at one year and two years. KSS clinical and functional score is the same in both groups, but with higher mean values in the MP group. The most important score is forgetten joint score which is favourable for the MP group.

Conclusion

The patients who underwent the MP-TKA scored better than those who underwent the PS-TKA, particularly regarding deep knee flexion and stability of the prosthesis. This may be related to better replication of natural knee kinematics with MP-TKA.
Coral reef thermal microclimates mapped from the International Space Station
Authors: Longenecker J. , Benzoni F. , Dunn N. , Fox H. E. , Gleason A. , Otis D. , Chirayath V. , Oury N. , Purkis S. J.
Published: February 2025

Satellite sea surface temperature (SST) is critical for describing marine environments. Traditional SST data, such as those provided by the Group for High Resolution Sea Surface Temperature (GHRSST) program, are valuable, but have a relatively coarse spatial resolution for mapping coral reef thermal environments. Hence, fine resolution SST from orbit would be of great utility to the coral reef research community and speed the pathway to an increased understanding of how, when, and where thermal stress afflicts individual reefs. Such data would support adaptive management, especially so for the design of marine protected areas. Flying aboard the International Space Station, the NASA ECOsystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer Experiment on Space Station (ECOSTRESS) instrument may already fill this niche with a spatial resolution 204 times finer than GHRSST. To evaluate ECOSTRESS thermal data over reef environments, we deployed 21 temperature loggers over three years across two reef sites in the Red Sea. We compared temperature retrievals from both the coarse resolution GHRSST and the fine resolution, experimental, ECOSTRESS, to this in-situ logger dataset. While temperature data from both orbital platforms correlated strongly with the logger recordings, only ECOSTRESS, with its 70-m pixels, could construct thermal microclimate maps capturing the dynamic temperature fluctuations experienced by our studied reefs. We contend that ECOSTRESS represents a significant advancement in the capability to monitor heat stress on reefs from orbit.
A critical review of medicolegal research and information asymmetries in investigating cases of extrajudicial executions and forced disappearances
Authors: Dempsey Nicholas , Sarkar Reena , Rivera Claudia , Bassed Richard
Published: February 2025

Medicolegal systems investigate the cause and manner of death, particularly differentiating between unintentional and intentional deaths. The examination of remains from unlawfully killed individuals is critical in exposing human rights violations. However, forensic medical investigations of these human remains can face multiple challenges, especially in contexts marked by limited resources, political influence, and sub-optimal investigative procedures. When killings are state-sanctioned or facilitated by well-resourced non-state actors, the clandestine disposal of remains can create a culture of impunity, leaving affected families and communities without recourse or resolution. This study aggregates articles in English and Spanish, examining the current state of how forensic medical research on extrajudicial executions and forced disappearances informs practice. It highlights critical gaps in the empirical literature, particularly in the reporting of the scientific findings that impact the investigation of victims of these unlawful killings. These cases' inherently non-linear and unpredictable nature, often influenced by chaotic and unstable conditions, can create disproportionate challenges for forensics practitioners. To address these gaps, this review suggests leveraging epidemiological frameworks to track data trends in these unlawful killings, supporting public health initiatives in prevention and policy. It emphasises the need for comprehensive documentation, robust databases, and adaptive forensic methodologies to navigate uncertainties and systemic limitations inherent in this complex and unpredictable domain of medicolegal death investigation.
Socio-demographic and toxicological findings from autoptic cases in a Northern Italy community (2017–2022)
Authors: Palazzoli Federica , Filippini Tommaso , Lavenia Antonino , Balduini Simone , Attanasi Alessia , Verri Patrizia , Vandelli Daniele , Castagnetti Valentina , Santunione Anna Laura , Vinceti Marco , Cecchi Rossana
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The overall trend in the use of licit and illicit substances is increasing. However, a few data on socio-demographic and toxicological findings in post-mortem cases are available.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on autoptic cases evaluated in the Institute of Legal Medicine of the cities of Modena and Reggio Emilia in the period 2017–2022. Positivity to toxicological compounds and their relation with sociodemographic and forensic features were evaluated.

Results

A toxicological analysis was conducted in 504 cases out of 794 autopsies, finding 330 positive cases. An association was observed between positivity and increasing age, as well as manner of death. The most frequently observed classes of substances were benzodiazepine (41.2%), followed by alcohol (35.5%) and abuse drugs (24.8%). For every class of substances in at least half of the cases two or more classes were detected. As regards prescribed drugs, approximately 40% of cases assumed 2 or more drugs, while polypharmacy occurred in 6.1%.

Conclusions

Older age and specific causes of deaths appear to be associated with toxicological findings. In addition, co-assumption of licit and illicit substances emerged as a widespread phenomenon in our study population. Under a public health perspective, these data provide findings of relevance for preventive and therapeutic measures.
Common mycorrhizal networks improve survival and mediate facilitative plant interactions among Andropogon gerardii seedlings under drought stress
Authors: Russell Margaret , Řezáčová Veronika , Miller Kirby Shane , Nardi Wynter Helene , Brown Morgan , Weremijewicz Joanna
Published: February 2025

Under drought conditions, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi may improve plant performance by facilitating the movement of water through extensive hyphal networks. When these networks interconnect neighboring plants in common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs), CMNs are likely to partition water among many individuals. The consequences of CMN-mediated water movement for plant interactions, however, are largely unknown. We set out to examine CMN-mediated interactions among Andropogon gerardii seedlings in a target-plant pot experiment, with watering (watered or long-term drought) and CMN status (intact or severed) as treatments. Intact CMNs improved the survival of seedlings under drought stress and mediated positive, facilitative plant interactions in both watering treatments. Watering increased mycorrhizal colonization rates and improved P uptake, particularly for large individuals. Under drought conditions, improved access to water most likely benefited neighboring plants interacting across CMNs. CMNs appear to have provided the most limiting resource within each treatment, whether P, water, or both, thereby improving survival and growth. Neighbors near large, photosynthate-fixing target plants likely benefited from their establishment of extensive hyphal networks that could access water and dissolved P within soil micropores. In plant communities, CMNs may be vital during drought, which is expected to increase in frequency, intensity, and length with climate change.
Early evaluation and treatment of thoracolumbar kyphosis in children with achondroplasia
Authors: Omara Chady , Pieters Lynn , Castelein René M. , Sakkers Ralph J. B. , Vleggeert-Lankamp Carmen L. A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK) is frequently reported in children with achondroplasia. The combination of TLK and the narrow spinal canal in achondroplasia increases the risk of developing symptomatic spinal stenosis. However, there is no consensus on the optimal management of TLK.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study evaluated children under four years old with achondroplasia, monitoring TLK every six months. Pathologic TLK was defined as a Cobb angle of 20 degrees or more between T10 and L2. Management involved either a wait-and-see policy, which prohibited unsupported sitting, or bracing. Surgery was reserved for severe progressive TLK or spinal stenosis cases. TLK was evaluated over time. A receiver operating characteristic curve determined the baseline threshold where wait-and-see management failed to resolve TLK below 20 degrees. Multiple linear regression compared bracing versus wait-and-see management for cases exceeding 40 degrees.

Results

Sixty-two patients were included, with a median age of 10 months and a median follow-up of 31 months. TLK prevalence decreased from 85% at baseline to 42% at final follow-up. The mean Cobb angle decreased from 31 ± 11 degrees to 22 ± 16 degrees (p < 0.001). The threshold for ineffective wait-and-see management was identified as 33 degrees. Bracing resulted in significantly more TLK reduction than wait-and-see management for cases exceeding 40 degrees (15 degree difference, 95% CI 2–28, p = 0.023). Three patients required surgery.

Conclusion

TLK is highly prevalent in achondroplasia, necessitating careful monitoring. A wait-and-see policy with restrictions on unsupported sitting is recommended initially, but early bracing should be considered for more severe cases.
Clinical implementation of the 3D 4K exoscope (Orbeye™) in reconstructive head and neck surgery
Authors: Hofmann Elena , Doll Christian , Koerdt Steffen , Kurth Cynthia , Heiland Max , Kreutzer Kilian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To assess the clinical utility of the 3D 4K exoscope for reconstructive head and neck surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed surgical details and complications with the use of the 3D 4K exoscope for microvascular reconstruction at a high-volume Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, compared to the use of a 2D microscope. Patients with oral cancer undergoing microvascular reconstruction were categorized into two cohorts based on the intraoperative use of the 3D 4K exoscope (Orbeye™, Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) or a conventional microscope (ZEISS S8 – OPMI Vario, Carl Zeiss AG, Oberkochen, Germany; Leica M680, Leica Mikrosysteme Vertrieb GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) during a six-month study period, respectively. Outcomes were also compared between two time periods of the exoscope use to assess the learning curve over time.

Results

The exoscope was applied for microvascular anastomosis in 55 surgical cases (cohort 1), and the conventional microscope was employed in 56 cases (cohort 2). The rates of postoperative complications within 14 days following the use of the exoscope were 14.5% (N = 8), compared to 16.1% (N = 9) in cohort 2. Analysis over time demonstrated a learning curve with the exoscope, reflected in a decrease in postoperative complications within 14 days from 22.7 to 9.1%.

Conclusion

The three-dimensional camera system provides excellent and reliable intraoperative visualization in reconstructive head and neck surgery. Transitioning to this new technology did not lead to an increase in intra- or postoperative complications, but the successful implementation requires some experience with the device.
Unearthing the nexus: latifundia, earthquakes, and the emergence of the Sicilian Mafia
Authors: Battisti Michele , Bernardo Giovanni , Kourtellos Andros , Lavezzi Andrea Mario
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the historical origins of the Mafia and its roots in the Sicilian latifundia. By employing earthquake intensity as an instrumental variable to tackle endogeneity concerns, our study reveals a significant relationship between the presence of the Mafia during its initial historical appearances in the second half of the 19th century and the characteristics of latifundia. Latifundia, distinguished by large landowners and extensive agriculture, including the rotation of single-crop, pasture, and fallow lands, is found to be closely linked to this heightened Mafia presence. Moreover, our analysis rules out contemporary socio-economic factors by considering a set of control variables such as agricultural proxies. These findings highlight a persistent historical pattern of inequality, proxied by the spread of latifundia, underscoring the enduring influence of the medieval feudal system, transformed into latifundia, on social dynamics. Our findings suggest that policies aimed at reducing the concentration of land ownership and promoting land reform could effectively have curbed the emergence of organized crime in areas with a history of comparatively higher land ownership inequality.
Human identification through panoramic dental radiographs: a novel matching approach
Authors: Bozkurt Mustafa Hakan , Karagol Serap , Omezli Mehmet Melih
Published: February 2025

Biometric person identification systems identify individuals using personal characteristics such as fingerprints, eyes or facial recognition. However, in some critical situations, such as fires, serious traffic accidents, earthquakes or serious injuries, these features can become ineffective. In certain situations, dental characteristics may become the only valid biometric feature for identification. In these cases, forensic dentists work by examining dental structures to establish a person's identity. Currently, studies are being carried out to develop an automated recognition system based on computer vision to assist forensic dentists. However, due to the difficulties in processing panoramic X-ray images and challenges in accessing the data, person matching studies with these images are limited. This paper presents a novel method for matching people based on panoramic X-ray images. Dental person recognition studies can proceed either by investigating the similarity of teeth or by examining the similarity of jaws. In this work, a new approach that uses keypoint descriptors to perform tooth-jaw matching is proposed. This approach offers a high match rate by allowing to search for dental features on a jaw-by-jaw basis and requires less computational complexity than tooth-to-tooth matching. Unlike jaw-to-jaw approaches, it is possible to match individual teeth. The method presented in this study provides a novel approach with significant matching accuracy and efficiency. By evaluating the effectiveness of these methods on panoramic images, the study contributes to forensic dental identification methods in scenarios where traditional biometric features may fall short.
Using clinical cases with diagnostic errors and malpractice claims: impact on anxiety and diagnostic performance in GP clinical reasoning education
Authors: van Sassen Charlotte , Mamede Silvia , Hooftman Jacky , van den Broek Walter , Bindels Patrick , Zwaan Laura
Published: February 2025

Erroneous and malpractice claim cases reflect knowledge gaps and complex contextual factors. Incorporating such cases into clinical reasoning education (CRE) may enhance learning and diagnostic skills. However, they may also elicit anxiety among learners, potentially impacting learning. As a result, the optimal utilization of such cases in CRE remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the effect of erroneous and malpractice claim case vignettes on anxiety and future diagnostic performance in CRE and explores possible underlying factors that may influence learning, including self-reported confidence in the final diagnosis, learners’ satisfaction, and retrospective impact of the cases. In this three-phase experiment, GP residents and supervisors were randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions: neutral (without reference to an error), erroneous (involving a diagnostic error), or malpractice claim (involving a diagnostic error along with a malpractice claim description). During the first session, participants reviewed six cases exclusively in the version of their assigned condition, with anxiety levels measured before and after. In the second session, participants solved six neutral clinical cases featuring the same diagnoses as those in the learning phase but presented in different scenarios, along with four filler cases. Diagnostic performance and self-reported confidence in the diagnosis were assessed. The third session measured learners’ satisfaction and longer-term impact on the participants. Case vignettes featuring diagnostic errors or malpractice claims did not lead to increased anxiety and resulted in similar future diagnostic performance compared to neutral vignettes. Additionally, self-reported confidence, learners’ satisfaction and long-term impact scores did not differ significantly between conditions. This suggests these cases can be integrated into CRE programs, offering a valuable source of diverse, context-rich examples that broaden case libraries without interfering with diagnostic performance or causing anxiety in learners.
The complexity of mathematics teacher educator expertise
Authors: Goos Merrilyn
Published: February 2025

Mathematics teacher education is now a well-established field of research, but it is only in recent years that research attention has turned towards the learning and development of mathematics teacher educators themselves. In this special issue, interest centres on mathematics teacher educator expertise and how this can be represented, developed, and studied. The research studies published in this issue aim to move beyond category-based descriptions of mathematics teacher educator knowledge and explore the broader complexity of expertise as blend of knowing, doing, believing, and being. In doing so they capture the dynamic and interconnected nature of expertise. In this commentary article, I reflect on what we can learn from these studies about the complexity of MTE expertise and use these insights to suggest directions for future research.
On Twelve Shades of Green: Assessing the Levels of Environmental Protection in the Artificial Intelligence Act
Authors: Pagallo Ugo
Published: February 2025

The paper examines twelve legal regimes related to the governance and regulation of both the environmental risks and opportunities brought forth by the use of AI systems and AI models in the Artificial Intelligence Act (‘AIA’) of EU law. The assessment of risks and opportunities of AI related to the environment includes the high-risk management procedures under Art. 9 of the AIA, the “fundamental rights impact assessment” of Art. 27, and the codes of conduct of Art. 95. These provisions are supplemented by further regulatory regimes, such as the proposal of EU directive on sustainable consumption and green claims, and Reg. (EU) 2023/588 on environmental and space sustainability, among others. The aim of the analysis is to specify which are the less or the more environmentally friendly regulatory regimes set up with the AIA. The claim is that Art. 9, 27 and 95 are among the less green pieces of the whole legislation.
An alternative source of medicines: pharmaceutical utilization of animal-derived metabolites
Authors: Renda Gülin
Published: February 2025

Throughout history, various human civilizations have used raw materials obtained from the body parts, metabolic byproducts, or non-animal components of animals as medical resources for the treatment of numerous diseases and relief of symptoms. Protein structures, including hormones and enzymes, as well as various animal-derived metabolites including polysaccharides, lipids, and vitamins, have been used for the development of raw drugs. These chemicals include widely used substances including heparin, melatonin, collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, bile acids, and coenzyme Q10. Additionally, they include materials such as snake, spider, and amphibian poisons, which are now undergoing therapeutic development. This review presents examples of animal-derived pharmaceutical raw materials that are being used as drugs and have potential in drug development research. Detailed descriptions of the chemical structures, original sources and effects of these raw materials are included. In general, the production method that was previously carried out by using animal organisms has been replaced by the utilization of recombinant technologies. The use of animals as a resource in the drug development process is expected to remain an interesting topic and further research in this area is expected. Nevertheless, it is essential not to disregard the suggestions against utilizing animals in pharmaceutical production, particularly in cases where alternative sources are accessible.
Training and Technical Assistance Increase the Fidelity of Implementation of a Universal Prevention Initiative in Rural Schools: Results from a 3-Year Cluster-Randomized Trial
Authors: Calvert Hannah G. , Fleming Christopher M. , Lowe Michaela , Lewis Teri , Siebert Carl F. , Havlicak Ashley , Anderson Nate , Castleton Tate , Turner Lindsey
Published: February 2025

The need for well-implemented evidence-based interventions (EBIs) for the prevention of behavioral issues among children and adolescents is substantial. In rural areas, the need often matches or surpasses that of urban areas. Schools have a wide reach for prevention-focused EBIs. However, implementation in rural schools is often hindered by limited resources and capacity. Rural School Support Strategies (RS3) are a bundle of implementation supports that address implementation challenges in rural settings. They include providing additional leadership and coaching training, individualized technical assistance (mostly virtual), and monthly meetings of a virtual learning collaborative. A cluster-randomized Hybrid Type 3 implementation-effectiveness trial tested RS3 for implementing school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), a universal prevention approach to improving student behavior, academic outcomes, and school climate. Forty rural schools received a multi-day training on PBIS each summer for 3 years. Half were randomized to also receive RS3 support. Linear and logistic regression models examined the effect of treatment condition and dosage of support on implementation fidelity for Tier 1 (universal) PBIS. Condition and dosage (number of hours) of support increased the odds of schools achieving the 70% threshold for adequate implementation fidelity. In the first year, the higher dosage of technical assistance events increased the likelihood of schools reaching fidelity, whereas later in the trial, the higher dosage of attendance at the virtual learning collaborative sessions yielded significant improvements in fidelity. Implications for accelerating the implementation of universal prevention initiatives in schools—particularly in rural settings—are discussed. This study was prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03736395), on November 9, 2018.
Pre-entry experience, knowledge inheritance, and entrepreneurial resource mobilization
Authors: Chila Vilma , Devarakonda Shivaram V. , Martin Xavier
Published: February 2025

We study the conditions under which founders’ pre-entry experience in the industry affects the prospects of new ventures mobilizing financial resources. Drawing on signaling theory, we theorize that the signal value of pre-entry experience is contingent on the extent to which new ventures leverage such experience as well as the environmental context in which they operate. Specifically, we argue that knowledge linkages to founders’ former employer increase the clarity of the pre-entry experience signal. We further posit that this clarified pre-entry experience signal is more valuable in competitive environments. We investigate these effects by focusing on the time to first VC funding for startups in the US semiconductor industry. We show that (1) knowledge linkages to the founders’ previous employer accentuate the effect of pre-entry experience by further shortening the time to VC funding and (2) this shortening in time is more significant when the industry clustering is high.
Modeling smart rejuvenation on a series system with different failure modes
Authors: Koutras Vasilis P. , Platis Agapios N.
Published: February 2025

Software rejuvenation is a proactive fault management technique that is used to counteract aging phenomena in continuously running software systems. To mitigate such phenomena, rejuvenation includes preventive periodic stoppage of the running software, cleaning its internal state by garbage collection, flushing operating system kernel tables, defragmentation and reinitialization of internal data structures, and then restarting it. In this paper, a two-unit series software system is considered which can experience different failure modes. Each software component can experience both soft and hard failures. A hard failure is counteracted by a hardware reboot, though a soft failure is recovered by software rejuvenation. Additionally, rejuvenation is proactively initiated when a software component transitions into a degraded, failure-prone state. This paper introduces the innovative concept of smart rejuvenation, which strategically leverages system downtime caused by a hard failure in one component to simultaneously rejuvenate another component. To model the entire system’s evolution in time, a semi-Markov process is used. The aim of this work is twofold: firstly, to distinguish the rejuvenation policy for each software component that optimizes the entire system availability and operational cost, and secondly to examine if smart rejuvenation can improve these measures for the software system.