bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to win the first Olympic medal? And the second?
Authors: Csurilla Gergely , Fertő Imre
Published: August 2024

Objectives

We investigate the determinants of Olympic success. We distinguish between the probability of winning a medal and the overall Olympic success. Furthermore, we examine the impact of the three superpowers (China, Russia, and the United States). Beyond Olympic success as measured by medals, we also investigate the impact of other dependent variables considering additional rankings.

Methods

We use sport‐level data for seven Summer Olympic Games (1996–2021), applying weighted market share as a performance indicator to differentiate types of medals and rankings. We employ zero‐inflated beta regressions to estimate separately the probability of having zero market share at the Olympics and the determinants of Olympic success.

Results

Our estimations suggest that population positively influences Olympic success. Estimations highlight the role of superpower countries and sports‐level effects in explaining Olympic success. Better economic status is associated with winning a medal at the Olympic Games, but not with the number of medals that have been won. When using different outcome variables for Olympic success, considering not only medal rankings, the determinants of success change significantly.

Conclusion

Countries without previous Olympic success should collect economic and human resources to obtain their first medal at the Games.
Correctness Comparison of ChatGPT‐4, Gemini, Claude‐3, and Copilot for Spatial Tasks
Authors: Hochmair Hartwig H. , Juhász Levente , Kemp Takoda
Published: August 2024

Generative AI including large language models (LLMs) has recently gained significant interest in the geoscience community through its versatile task‐solving capabilities including programming, arithmetic reasoning, generation of sample data, time‐series forecasting, toponym recognition, or image classification. Existing performance assessments of LLMs for spatial tasks have primarily focused on ChatGPT, whereas other chatbots received less attention. To narrow this research gap, this study conducts a zero‐shot correctness evaluation for a set of 76 spatial tasks across seven task categories assigned to four prominent chatbots, that is, ChatGPT‐4, Gemini, Claude‐3, and Copilot. The chatbots generally performed well on tasks related to spatial literacy, GIS theory, and interpretation of programming code and functions, but revealed weaknesses in mapping, code writing, and spatial reasoning. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the correctness of results between the four chatbots. Responses from repeated tasks assigned to each chatbot showed a high level of consistency in responses with matching rates of over 80% for most task categories in the four chatbots.
Sulfonamide allergy label and the risk of opportunistic infections in solid organ transplant recipients – A retrospective matched cohort study
Authors: Al‐Shaikhly Taha , Al‐Obaydi Sarah , Craig Timothy J. , Henao Maria P.
Published: August 2024

Background

While a penicillin allergy label has been linked to various negative clinical outcomes, limited studies have specifically characterized the implication of sulfonamide allergy labels (SAL) on clinical outcomes. We examined the impact of SAL on clinical outcomes of solid organ transplant recipients.

Methods

In this retrospective matched cohort study, we utilized the TriNetX US collaborative Network, a multicenter de‐identified US database, and identified solid organ transplant recipients with and without SAL. The 1‐year probability of developing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP), toxoplasmosis, and nocardiosis was estimated and contrasted between the two study groups. The hazard ratio (HR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) quantified the strength and direction of the association between SAL and these outcomes.

Results

When comparing 1571 solid organ transplant recipients with SAL to an equal number of matched controls, patients with SAL had a higher probability of developing nocardiosis (HR 3.85; 95% CI, 1.44–10.30; p = .004; corrected p = .04), and toxoplasmosis (HR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.10–3.17; p = .019; corrected p = .19), but no difference in the risk of developing PJP (HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 0.68–3.95; p = .27). There was no mortality difference (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.99–1.75; p = .061; corrected p = .6). SAL influenced antibiotic prescription with overutilization of dapsone, atovaquone, and pentamidine and underutilization of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

Conclusion

SAL is associated with an increased risk of opportunistic infections following solid organ transplantation. Measures to evaluate and de‐label sulfonamide allergy prior to transplantation or desensitizing shortly after transplantation are advisable.

image
Extended Reality in STEM: A Modernised Educational Tool for Children
Authors: Cherry Lauren , Soderberg Christina , Haetter Jolie , Ossmy Ori
Published: August 2024

For many years, researchers argued that Extended Reality (XR)—an umbrella term that refers to all immersive technologies—has the potential to revolutionise early years education by providing new and innovative ways for children to learn. Specifically, XR is suggested as a powerful tool in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. By blending the physical with the virtual, the creation of unique multisensory environments with XR has been shown to deliver hands-on learning experiences that exceed outcomes from traditional teaching. Nevertheless, the high cost, limited content, technical challenges, and lack of teacher training constrain the prevalence of XR in STEM education. In this article, we discuss the key strengths and limits of XR in education, review recent advances in its use in STEM disciplines, and point to future directions for how XR should be integrated into the school curriculum to facilitate children’s outcomes in STEM education.
Research on Intelligent Educational Technology in Business English Education in Building Multi-model Learning Environments and Personalized Learning Paths
Authors: Lu Xiaoying , Samah Norazrena
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the efficacy of intelligent educational technology business English education. It tries to solve the problem of traditional teaching strategies which often fail to meet the diverse needs of students by providing engaging, practical course materials. With an explanatory sequential mixed methods research design, it utilizes thematic analysis for qualitative data from instructors and students, followed by a quantitative survey of 215 business English students. The findings from statistical study indicate that there is a strong positive association between the usage of intelligent educational technology and the improvement of students’ business language competency, communication effectiveness, and their overall satisfaction. Moreover, the correlation between students' idea of personalized learning and their motivation, engagement, and performance were significantly positive. In a word, the application of intelligent educational technology can support the development of multi-modal and personalized business English teaching, as well as technology-driven language learning practice, curriculum development, and intelligent educational technology design.
Effect of free liquid layer quantity on bacteria and protein adhesion to liquid infused polymers
Authors: Fong ChunKi , Andersen Marissa Jeme , Kunesh Emma , Leonard Evan , Durand Donovan , Coombs Rachel , Flores-Mireles Ana Lidia , Howell Caitlin
Published: August 2024

Liquid-infused polymers are recognized for their ability to repel foulants, making them promising for biomedical applications including catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). However, the impact of the quantity of free liquid layer covering the surface on protein and bacterial adhesion is not well understood. Here, we explore how the amount of free silicone liquid layer in infused silicone catheter materials influences the adhesion of bacteria and proteins relevant to CAUTIs. To alter the quantity of the free liquid layer, we either physically removed excess liquid from fully infused catheter materials or partially infused them. We then evaluated the impact on bacterial and host protein adhesion. Physical removal of the free liquid layer from the fully infused samples reduced the height of the liquid layer from 60 μm to below detection limits and silicone liquid loss into the environment by approximately 64% compared to controls, without significantly increasing the deposition of protein fibrinogen or the adhesion of the common uropathogen Enterococcus faecalis. Partially infused samples showed even greater reductions in liquid loss: samples infused to 70%–80% of their maximum capacity exhibited about an 85% decrease in liquid loss compared to fully infused controls. Notably, samples with more than 70% infusion did not show significant increases in fibrinogen or E. faecalis adhesion. These findings suggest that adjusting the levels of the free liquid layer in infused polymers can influence protein and bacterial adhesion on their surfaces. Moreover, removing the free liquid layer can effectively reduce liquid loss from these polymers while maintaining their functionality.
Acoustic response of structured and randomized porous blunt trailing edges subject to turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Arcondoulis Elias J. G. , Ragni Daniele , Fiscaletti Daniele , Merino-Martinez Roberto , Liu Yu
Published: August 2024

The attachment of porous media to a blunt trailing edge (TE) can significantly suppress vortex shedding processes and the related tonal noise, yet the near-wall and internal flow fields of porous media are difficult to analyze experimentally and rely on numerical simulations to elucidate the internal flow features. A structured porous trailing edge (SPTE) has been recently designed that follows a methodology of a structured porous coated cylinder. The SPTE acoustic response was compared against randomized porous media with 10 and 30 pores/in. in an anechoic wind tunnel over a range of flow velocities. Acoustic beamforming revealed that the dominant acoustic sources were at the end of the solid plate, even when a porous TE was attached. A region of integration was used to extract acoustic spectra without additional noise sources, revealing that the SPTE possesses superior noise reduction capability. Dipolar directivity patterns were observed at the vortex shedding frequency for each TE, and the coherence between microphones revealed the complex acoustic propagation of the high-frequency content. A wavelet analysis revealed how the SPTE breaks periodic vortex shedding cycles into smaller cycles over a wider frequency range, leading to an overall noise reduction relative to the other TEs.
In vitro
efficacy of next-generation dihydrotriazines and biguanides against babesiosis and malaria parasites
Authors: Vydyam Pratap , Chand Meenal , Gihaz Shalev , Renard Isaline , Heffernan Gavin D. , Jacobus Laura R. , Jacobus David P. , Saionz Kurt W. , Shah Raju , Shieh Hong-Ming , Terpinski Jacek , Zhao Wenyi , Cornillot Emmanuel , Ben Mamoun Choukri
Published: August 2024

Babesia
and
Plasmodium
pathogens, the causative agents of babesiosis and malaria, are vector-borne intraerythrocytic protozoan parasites, posing significant threats to both human and animal health. The widespread resistance exhibited by these pathogens to various classes of antiparasitic drugs underscores the need for the development of novel and more effective therapeutic strategies. Antifolates have long been recognized as attractive antiparasitic drugs as they target the folate pathway, which is essential for the biosynthesis of purines and pyrimidines, and thus is vital for the survival and proliferation of protozoan parasites. More efficacious and safer analogs within this class are needed to overcome challenges due to resistance to commonly used antifolates, such as pyrimethamine, and to address liabilities associated with the dihydrotriazines, WR99210 and JPC-2067. Here, we utilized an
in vitro
culture condition suitable for the continuous propagation of
Babesia duncani, Babesia divergens, Babesia MO1,
and
Plasmodium falciparum
in human erythrocytes to screen a library of 50 dihydrotriazines and 29 biguanides for their efficacy
in vitro
and compared their potency and therapeutic indices across different species and isolates. We identified nine analogs that inhibit the growth of all species, including the
P. falciparum
pyrimethamine-resistant strain HB3, with IC
50
values below 10 nM, and display excellent
in vitro
therapeutic indices. These compounds hold substantial promise as lead antifolates for further development as broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs.
Ex vivo
susceptibilities to ganaplacide and diversity in potential resistance mediators in Ugandan
Plasmodium falciparum
isolates
Authors: Kreutzfeld Oriana , Orena Stephen , Okitwi Martin , Tumwebaze Patrick K. , Byaruhanga Oswald , Katairo Thomas , Conrad Melissa D. , Legac Jennifer , Garg Shreeya , Crudale Rebecca , Aydemir Ozkan , Giesbrecht David , Nsobya Samuel L. , Blasco Benjamin , Duffey Maelle , Rouillier Melanie , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Cooper Roland A. , Rosenthal Philip J.
Published: August 2024

Novel antimalarials are urgently needed to combat rising resistance to available drugs. The imidazolopiperazine ganaplacide is a promising drug candidate, but decreased susceptibility of laboratory strains has been linked to polymorphisms in the
Plasmodium falciparum
cyclic amine resistance locus (PfCARL), acetyl-CoA transporter (PfACT), and UDP-galactose transporter (PfUGT). To characterize parasites causing disease in Africa, we assessed
ex vivo
drug susceptibilities to ganaplacide in 750
P
.
falciparum
isolates collected in Uganda from 2017 to 2023. Drug susceptibilities were assessed using a 72-hour SYBR Green growth inhibition assay. The median IC
50
for ganaplacide was 13.8 nM, but some isolates had up to 31-fold higher IC
50
s (31/750 with IC
50
> 100 nM). To assess genotype-phenotype associations, we sequenced genes potentially mediating altered ganaplacide susceptibility in the isolates using molecular inversion probe and dideoxy sequencing methods. PfCARL was highly polymorphic, with eight mutations present in >5% of isolates. None of these eight mutations had previously been selected in laboratory strains with
in vitro
drug pressure and none were found to be significantly associated with decreased ganaplacide susceptibility. Mutations in PfACT and PfUGT were found in ≤5% of isolates, except for two frequent (>20%) mutations in PfACT; one mutation in PfACT (I140V) was associated with a modest decrease in susceptibility. Overall, Ugandan
P. falciparum
isolates were mostly highly susceptible to ganaplacide. Known resistance mediators were polymorphic, but mutations previously selected with
in vitro
drug pressure were not seen, and mutations identified in the Ugandan isolates were generally not associated with decreased ganaplacide susceptibility.
Prevalence and dynamics of antimalarial drug resistance mutations among the
Plasmodium falciparum
isolates in TAK Province, Thailand, during the period of 1998–2001
Authors: Thaloengsok Sasikanya , Chaisatit Chaiyaporn , Saingam Piyaporn , Lertsethtakarn Paphavee , Spring Michele , Sriwichai Sabaithip , Pholwat Suporn , Guler Jennifer L. , Houpt Eric R. , Vesely Brian A.
Published: August 2024

Despite the overall decline in malaria cases in Thailand, continuous surveillance in endemic areas remains crucial. This retrospective analysis examined
Plasmodium falciparum
samples from Tak province, Thailand, collected in 1998, 1999, and 2001, to investigate the prevalence and evolution of antimalarial genotypic drug resistance. The study revealed a high prevalence of drug-resistant
P. falciparum
, particularly to mefloquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, with significant mutations in genes associated with resistance. Notably, mutations indicative of artemisinin resistance, such as those in the kelch13 gene, were detected at low frequencies, suggesting an evolving resistance pattern. The underlying cause of these resistance mutations appears to be the historical and widespread use of these antimalarial drugs, which exerted selective pressure on the parasite population. These findings underscore the necessity of ongoing surveillance and adaptive control strategies to manage drug resistance, guide treatment policies, and prevent potential outbreaks, even as malaria cases decrease. Continuous monitoring and research are imperative to sustain malaria elimination efforts and address the dynamic challenges posed by evolving drug-resistant strains.
Community organization and network complexity and stability: contrasting strategies of prokaryotic versus eukaryotic microbiomes in the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiao , Wang Hualong , Liang Yantao , McMinn Andrew , Wang Min
Published: August 2024

Unraveling the effects of spatial gradients on microbiome assembly and association is a challenging topic that remains understudied in the coastal ecosystem. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of spatial variation on the network complexity and stability of plankton microbiomes in the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea. These seas serve as spawning and nursery grounds for economically important fisheries valued at billions of dollars annually. Environmental heterogeneity structures microbial communities into distinct spatial patterns, leading to complex direct/indirect relationships and broader ecological niches of bacterioplankton compared to microeukaryotic communities. Interestingly, salinity gradients positively influenced the richness of rare subgroups of bacterioplankton, while the rare microeukaryotic subgroups showed an opposite trend. Abundant subgroups of prokaryotic/eukaryotic microbiomes exhibited greater environmental niche breadth and lower phylogenetic distance compared to the rare subgroups. Stochastic processes contributed greatly to microbiome dynamics, and deterministic processes governed the bacterioplankton organization with a lower phylogenetic turnover rate. Compared to microeukaryotes, bacterioplankton exhibit higher network modularity, complexity, and robustness and lower fragmentation, and vulnerability. These observations offer vital insights into the anti-interference ability and resistance of plankton microbiomes in response to environmental gradients in terms of organization and survival strategy as well as their adaptability to environmental disturbances.

IMPORTANCE

An in-depth understanding of community organization and stability of coastal microbiomes is crucial to determining the sustainability of marine ecosystems, such as the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea. Distinct responses between prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbiomes to spatial heterogeneity were observed in terms of geographical distribution, phylogenetic distance, niche breadth, and community assembly process. Environmental variations are significantly correlated with the dynamics of rare eukaryotic plankton subcommunities compared to prokaryotic plankton subcommunities. Deterministic processes shaped prokaryotic plankton community organization with a lower phylogenic turnover rate. Rare subgroups had noticeably higher phylogenetic distance and lower niche breadth than the corresponding abundant subgroups. Prokaryotic microbiomes had higher molecular network complexity and stability compared to microeukaryotes. Results presented here show how environmental gradients alter both the geographical characteristics of the microbial organization in coastal seas and also their co-occurrence network complexity and stability and thus have critical implications for nutrient and energy cycling.
Supplemental Material: How long did the Paleo-Asian Ocean take from initial subduction to slab rollback?: Revelation of early Paleozoic magmatism in the eastern Boshchekul-Chingiz arc
Authors: Zhang Yi , al. et
Published: August 2024

Text S1 (analytical methods) and Tables S1–S6. 
Device associated complications in the intensive care unit
Authors: Hixson Roxana , Jensen Kristin Schwab , Melamed Kathryn H , Qadir Nida
Published: August 2024

Invasive devices are routinely used in the care of critically ill patients. Although they are often essential components of patient care, devices such as intravascular catheters, endotracheal tubes, and ventilators are a common source of complications in the intensive care unit. Critical care practitioners who use these devices need to use strategies for risk reduction and understand approaches to management when adverse events occur. This review discusses the identification, prevention, and management of complications of vascular, airway, and mechanical support devices commonly used in the intensive care unit.
Mental integrity, autonomy, and fundamental interests
Authors: Zuk Peter
Published: August 2024

Many technology ethicists hold that the time has come to articulateneurorights: our normative claims vis-à-vis our brains and minds. One such claim is the right tomental integrity(‘MI’). I begin by considering some paradigmatic threats to MI (§1) and how the dominant autonomy-based conception (‘ABC’) of MI attempts to make sense of them (§2). I next consider the objection that the ABC isoverbroadin its understanding of what threatens MI and suggest a friendly revision to the ABC that addresses the objection (§3). I then consider a second objection: that the ABC cannot make sense of the MI of thenon-autonomous. This objection appears fatal even to the revised ABC (§4). On that basis, I develop an alternative conception on which MI is grounded in a plurality of simpler capacities, namely, those foraffect,cognition, andvolition. Each of these more basic capacities grounds a set of fundamental interests, and they are for that reason worthy of protection even when they do not rise to the level of complexity necessary for autonomy (§5). This yields a fully general theory of MI that accounts for its manifestations in both the autonomous and the non-autonomous.
Genetics of prostate cancer: a review of latest evidence
Authors: Hall Rose , Bancroft Elizabeth , Pashayan Nora , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Eeles Rosalind A
Published: August 2024

Prostate cancer (PrCa) is a largely heritable and polygenic disease. It is the most common cancer in people with prostates (PwPs) in Europe and the USA, including in PwPs of African descent. In the UK in 2020, 52% of all cancers were diagnosed at stage I or II. The National Health Service (NHS) long-term plan is to increase this to 75% by 2028, to reduce absolute incidence of late-stage disease. In the absence of a UK PrCa screening programme, we should explore how to identify those at increased risk of clinically significant PrCa.

Incorporating genomics into the PrCa screening, diagnostic and treatment pathway has huge potential for transforming patient care. Genomics can increase efficiency of PrCa screening by focusing on those with genetic predisposition to cancer—which when combined with risk factors such as age and ethnicity, can be used for risk stratification in risk-based screening (RBS) programmes. The goal of RBS is to facilitate early diagnosis of clinically significant PrCa and reduce overdiagnosis/overtreatment in those unlikely to experience PrCa-related symptoms in their lifetime. Genetic testing can guide PrCa management, by identifying those at risk of lethal PrCa and enabling access to novel targeted therapies.

PrCa is curable if diagnosed below stage III when most people do not experience symptoms. RBS using genetic profiling could be key here if we could show better survival outcomes (or reduction in cancer-specific mortality accounting for lead-time bias), in addition to more cost efficiency than age-based screening alone. Furthermore, PrCa outcomes in underserved communities could be optimised if genetic testing was accessible, minimising health disparities.
Randomised controlled trial of intermittent calorie restriction in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ghezzi Laura , Tosti Valeria , Shi Lisa , Cantoni Claudia , Mikesell Robert , Lancia Samantha , Zhou Yanjiao , Obert Kathleen , Dula Courtney , Sen Monokesh K , Ge Anjie , Tolentino Miguel , Bollman Bryan , Don Anthony S , Matarese Giuseppe , Colamatteo Alessandra , La Rocca Claudia , Lepore Maria Teresa , Raji Cyrus A , Rahmani Farzaneh , Wu Gregory F , Naismith Robert T , Fontana Luigi , Cross Anne H , Salter Amber , Piccio Laura
Published: August 2024

Background

Calorie restriction (CR) ameliorates preclinical models of multiple sclerosis (MS) via multiple mechanisms. These include decreased leptin, a proinflammatory adipokine, but mechanistic studies in humans are lacking. Tests of daily and intermittent CR (iCR) in people with MS (pwMS) showed improvements in fatigue and well-being measures. This trial studied the effects of 12-week iCR on metabolic, immunological, and clinical outcomes in pwMS.

Method

Relapsing-remitting MS participants were randomised to iCR or a control group. Study visits were conducted at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. The primary outcome was reduction in serum leptin levels at 12 weeks. Feasibility and safety were assessed by diet adherence and adverse events (AEs). Secondary outcomes included changes in anthropometric and body composition measures, metabolic and immunologic profiling, and clinical measures. Mixed effects linear regression models were used to evaluate outcome differences between and within groups over time.

Results

Forty-two pwMS were randomised, 34 completed the study (17/group). Leptin serum levels at 12 weeks were significantly lower in the iCR versus the control group (mean decrease −6.98 µg/dL, 95% CI: −28.02 to 14.06; p=0.03). Adherence to iCR was 99.5% and 97.2% at 6 and 12 weeks, respectively, and no serious AEs were reported. An increase in blood CD45RO+regulatory T-cell numbers was seen after 6 weeks of iCR. Exploratory cognitive testing demonstrated a significant improvement in the Symbol Digit Modality Test Score in the iCR group at 12 weeks.

Conclusions

iCR has the potential to benefit metabolic and immunologic profiles and is safe and feasible in pwMS.

Trial registration number

NCT03539094.
Occupational asthma in the salmon processing industry: a case series
Authors: Fagernæs Carl Fredrik , Lauritzen Hilde Brun , Tøndell Anders , Hassel Erlend , Bang Berit Elisabeth , Tjalvin Gro , Nordhammer Anna Beate Overn , Rodal Liv Bjerke , Slåstad Siri , Svedahl Sindre
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Exposure to bioaerosols in salmon processing workers is associated with occupational asthma. IgE-mediated allergy and other disease mechanisms may be involved in airway inflammation and obstruction. Knowledge about disease burden, mechanisms, phenotypes and occupational exposure is limited.

Methods

Salmon processing workers referred to our occupational medicine clinic from 2019 to 2024 were included in a patient register. They were investigated in line with current guidelines for the management of occupational asthma, categorised according to diagnostic certainty and characterised with a focus on symptoms, work tasks and clinical findings.

Results

A total of 36 patients were included, among whom 27 had typical symptoms of work-related asthma, and 21 were diagnosed with occupational asthma. Among those with occupational asthma, all worked in the filleting or slaughtering area at the time of symptom onset. Median latency from the start of exposure to symptom onset was 4 years. 14 (67%) of the patients with occupational asthma were sensitised to salmon. Three patients were sensitised to salmon skin but not salmon meat.

Conclusions

Occupational asthma among salmon processing workers displays a heterogeneous clinical picture. IgE-mediated inhalation allergy towards various parts of the salmon seems to represent an important pathophysiological mechanism. However, some have occupational asthma with negative allergy tests. A comprehensive workup strategy including early initiation of serial peak expiratory flow and skin prick tests with various parts of the salmon should be considered. Although the incidence remains unknown, the substantial number of cases presented warrant increased efforts to reduce harmful exposure in the salmon processing industry.
The effect of foot immersion and neck cooling on cardiac autonomic function in older adults exposed to indoor overheating: a randomized crossover trial
Authors: McCourt Emma R. , Meade Robert D. , Richards Brodie J. , Koetje Nicholas J. , Santucci Nicholas B. , McCormick James J. , Boulay Pierre , Sigal Ronald J. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: August 2024

Foot immersion and neck cooling are recommended cooling strategies for protecting heat-vulnerable persons during heat waves. While we recently showed that these strategies do not limit core temperature increases in older adults during prolonged heat exposure, we did observe small reductions in heart rate. Expanding on these findings, we examined the effects of foot immersion with and without neck cooling on cardiac autonomic function. Seventeen adults (9 females; 65–81 years) underwent 3 randomized, 6 h exposures to 38 °C and 35% relative humidity with: no cooling (control), foot immersion (20 °C water), or foot immersion with a wet towel (20 °C) around the neck. Cardiac autonomic responses were measured at baseline and end-exposure. These included heart rate variability, cardiac and systolic blood pressure responses to standing, indexed via the 30:15 ratio and supine-to-standing systolic pressure change, respectively, and baroreflex sensitivity during repeated sit-to-stand maneuvers. The 30:15 ratio was 0.04 [95% CI: 0.01, 0.07] greater with foot immersion and neck cooling (1.08 (SD: 0.04)) relative to control (1.04 (0.06); P = 0.018). Similarly, standing systolic blood pressure was elevated 9 [0, 17] mmHg with foot immersion and neck cooling ( P = 0.043). That said, neither difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for multiplicity ( Padjusted ≥ 0.054). No differences in 30:15 ratio or standing systolic blood pressure were observed with foot immersion alone, while heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity were unaffected by either cooling intervention. While foot immersion with neck cooling potentially improved cardiac autonomic responses in older adults exposed to simulated indoor overheating, these effects were small and of questionable clinical importance.
Do linear clearings in boreal peatlands recover? Comparing taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional plant diversity
Authors: Goud Ellie M. , Davidson Scott J. , Dabros Anna , Kleinke Kimberly , Schmidt Megan A. , Strack Maria
Published: August 2024

Land-use changes and anthropogenic disturbances are major threats to biodiversity, affecting ecosystem function and recovery. In boreal Alberta, Canada, petroleum development has led to extensive landscape fragmentation, notably through linear clearings created for seismic exploration that remove surface vegetation and microtopography. Despite partial recovery on forested seismic lines, peatland recovery is often arrested, impacting wildlife and carbon dynamics. Restoration efforts employ silviculture techniques to create microtopography and foster tree growth, but the efficacy of restoration treatments in restoring peatland plant diversity remains uncertain. We compared taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity of understory plant communities across treated and untreated seismic lines, alongside reference sites in treed bogs and fens. Treated lines generally had a twofold increase in plant height, leaf dry matter content, and foliar nitrogen and phosphorus contents compared to reference sites. In bogs, treated lines differed from reference conditions driven by increases in herbaceous taxa, while fens displayed disparities mainly in taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity. Differential responses of bogs and fens underline the necessity for tailored management strategies. Changes in plant diversity away from restoration targets have implications for ecosystem recovery, emphasizing the importance of long-term monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of silviculture techniques in restoring boreal peatland plant communities.
Quasinormal modes of the Schwarzschild black hole with a deficit solid angle and quintessence-like matter: improved asymptotic iteration method
Authors: López L.A. , Pedraza Omar , Arceo Roberto , Ceron V.E.
Published: August 2024

We study the quasinormal modes (QNMs) for scalar and electromagnetic perturbations in the Schwarzschild black hole with a deficit solid angle and quintessence-like matter. Using the sixth-order WKB approximation and the improved asymptotic iteration method, we can determine the dependence of the QNMs on the parameters of the black hole and the parameters on the test fields. The values of the real part and imaginary parts of the QNMs increase with the decrease of the values of the deficit solid angle and density of quintessence-like matter. The QNMs gotten by these two methods are in good agreement. Using the finite difference method, we obtain the time evolution profile of such perturbations in this black hole.
Scheduling meetings: are the odds in your favor?
Authors: Brown Katherine , Mathur Harsh , Narayan Onuttom
Published: August 2024

Polling all the participants to find a time when everyone is available is the ubiquitous method of scheduling meetings nowadays. We examine the probability of a poll with m participants and $$\ell $$
ℓ
possible meeting times succeeding, where each participant rejects r of the $$\ell $$
ℓ
options. For large $$\ell $$
ℓ
and fixed $$r/\ell ,$$

r
/
ℓ
,

we can carry out a saddle-point expansion and obtain analytical results for the probability of success. Despite the thermodynamic limit of large $$\ell ,$$

ℓ
,

the ‘microcanonical’ version of the problem where each participant rejects exactly r possible meeting times, and the ‘canonical’ version where each participant has a probability $$p = r/\ell $$

p
=
r
/
ℓ

of rejecting any meeting time, only agree with each other if $$m\rightarrow \infty .$$

m
→
∞
.

For $$m\rightarrow \infty ,$$

m
→
∞
,

$$\ell $$
ℓ
has to be $$O(p^{-m})$$

O
(

p

-
m

)

for the poll to succeed, i.e., the number of meeting times that have to be polled increases exponentially with m. Equivalently, as a function of p, there is a discontinuous transition in the probability of success at $$p \sim 1/\ell ^{1/m}$$

p
∼
1
/

ℓ

1
/
m

. If the participants’ availability is approximated as being unchanging from one week to another, i.e., $$\ell $$
ℓ
is limited, a realistic example discussed in the text of the paper shows that the probability of success drops sharply if the number of participants is greater than approximately 4.

Graphical abstract
Half Landau–Zener ramp to a quantum phase transition in a dissipative single spin model
Authors: Suzuki Sei
Published: August 2024

We study the dynamics of a single spin coupled to a bosonic bath at zero temperature driven by a ramp of the bias field. A single spin coupled to a bosonic sub-Ohmic bath exhibits a quantum phase transition at a certain strength of spin-boson coupling. When the bias field is ramped from a large value to zero at this critical coupling strength, the system initialized at the ground state ends up with a finite magnetization due to the critical slowing down near the transition. On the basis of the pulse-impulse approximation, we derive a scaling law between the residual magnetization and the ramp speed. The obtained scaling relation is examined using a numerical simulation based on the tensor network. The data are in favor of the scaling law to hold. We discuss the demonstration of our theoretical results by means of quantum simulation using the quantum annealer.

Graphical abstract
Relativistic periastron advance beyond Einstein theory: analytical solution with applications
Authors: Tedesco A. , Capolupo A. , Lambiase G.
Published: August 2024

We find a new solution to calculate the orbital periastron advance of a test body subject to a central gravitational force field for relativistic theories and models beyond Einstein. This analitycal formula has general validity that includes all the post-Newtonian (PN) contributions to the dynamics and is useful for high-precision gravitational tests. The solution is directly applicable to corrective potentials of various forms, without the need for numerical integration. Later, we apply it to the scalar tensor fourth order gravity (STFOG) and noncommutative geometry, providing corrections to the Newtonian potential of Yukawa-like form $$V(r)=\alpha \frac{e^{-\beta r}}{r}$$

V

(
r
)

=
α

e

-
β
r

r

, and we conduct the first analysis involving all the PN terms for these theories. The same work is performed with a Schwarzschild geometry perturbed by a Quintessence Field, leading to a power-law potential $$V(r)=\alpha _q {r}^q$$

V

(
r
)

=

α
q

r

q

. Finally, by using astrometric data of the Solar System planetary precessions and those of the S2 star around Sgr A*, we infer new theoretical constraints and improvements in the bounds for $$\beta $$
β
. The resulting simulated orbits turn out to be compatible with general relativity.
Why is $${}^{208}_{82}\textrm{Pb}$$ the heaviest stable nuclide?
Authors: Kosyakov B. P. , Popov E. Yu , Vronskiĭ M. A.
Published: August 2024

In an effort to understand nuclei in terms of quarks we develop an effective theory to low-energy quantum chromodynamics in which a single quark contained in a nucleus is driven by a mean field due to other constituents of the nucleus. We analyze the reason why the number of d quarks in light stable nuclei is much the same as that of u quarks, while for heavier nuclei beginning with $$\mathrm{{}^{40}_{20}Ca}$$

20
40

Ca

, the number of d quarks is greater than the number of u quarks. To account for the finiteness of the periodic table, we invoke a version of gauge/gravity duality between the dynamical affair in stable nuclei and that in extremal black holes. With the assumption that the end of stability for heavy nuclei is dual to the occurrence of a naked singularity, we find that the maximal number of protons in stable nuclei is $$Z_{\max }^{\textrm{H}}\approx 82$$

Z

max

H

≈
82

.
Innovative Optimization of College English Education Based on Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Qiu Min
Published: August 2024

The innovation and optimization of college English teaching based on a simulated neural network algorithm are studied in detail. A neural network algorithm for optimizing English teaching is constructed. Based on cognitive process simulation, the characteristics of current English teaching are applied to English teaching, and the influence of error on sentence analysis is eliminated. In the process, the latest network algorithm is used to calculate the detailed data of college English education. The convergence rate of the neural network algorithm is tested and analyzed, and the basic algorithm is identified in the changing trend of local problem test data. Experiments show that the data obtained based on the simulated neural network algorithm are more efficient. Traditional prediction models or machine learning methods include linear regression, decision trees, random forests, support vector machines (SVM), naive Bayesian classifiers, etc. These models have been used in the past for prediction or classification tasks in the field of education. However, the prediction model based on the simulated neural network algorithm proposed in this paper shows higher performance in accuracy, stability, and reliability, and significantly reduces interlayer errors.
Synthesis and structural analysis of graphene nanosheets via microwave atmospheric pressure plasma
Authors: Iqbal Waqas , Ur Rehman Najeeb- , Wali Niaz
Published: August 2024

This study reports the effective synthesis of multilayered graphene sheets via microwave atmospheric pressure plasma. This innovative approach streamlines and expedites graphene production and other carbon nanostructures, eliminating the need for catalysts, solvents, or complex processing conditions. Ethanol is directly injected into a microwave-generated argon plasma plume, leading to the formation of graphene. Raman spectroscopy revealed characteristic peaks (2D, G, and D bands) confirming graphene composition, with defects indicated by the D band. X-ray diffraction analysis supported these findings, indicating a broad peak at 25∘ corresponding to the (002) plane, affirming a multi-layered graphene structure. Scanning electron microscopy exhibited crumpled, randomly oriented graphene sheets, albeit with uneven structures suggesting impurity incorporation. The presence of defects was quantified through the intensity ratio of the D to G band (ID/IG) in Raman spectroscopy, revealing a value of 0.80, signifying the presence of defects in the synthesized graphene. The 2D to G band intensity ratio (I2D/IG) suggested the existence of 7–10 graphene layers, highlighting the need for further optimization for enhanced graphene quality and purity.
Effect of peristaltic endoscope and heat transfer on the magnetohydrodynamic flow of non-Newtonian biviscosity fluid through an inclined annulus: Homotopy perturbation approach
Authors: Yadav Pramod Kumar , Roshan Muhammad
Published: August 2024

This work focuses on the heat transfer analysis of the magnetohydrodynamic peristaltic flow of blood through the gap between two coaxial flexible tubes of different wavelengths. In this model, the non-Newtonian biviscosity fluid is assumed to be blood, which is flowing through the annulus region between the inclined tubes. The governing equations for the considered problem are simplified under the assumptions of a zero Reynolds number and long wavelength approximations. An analytical expression for the temperature is obtained in its closed form, while a semi-analytical solution for the axial velocity of the moving fluid is determined using the homotopy perturbation method. Expressions for various flow variables such as shear stress, volumetric flow rate, pressure rise, and frictional force at the surface of inner and outer tubes are also obtained. In this work, we discussed the impact of various flow parameters like the Hartmann number, Grashof number, heat source, upper limit apparent viscosity coefficient, amplitude ratios of inner and outer tubes, radius ratio, and wavelength ratio on the above flow variables. The streamline contour plots are also drawn for the realization of the flow pattern of the blood inside the endoscope. The comparison of shear stresses for the peristaltic and rigid endoscopes and the validation of the present result with the previously established results are also discussed. A noteworthy observation drawn from the present model is that the pressure gradient enhances for increasing values of wavelength ratio when the wavelength of the inner tube is less than the wavelength of the outer tube, whereas the pressure gradient gets suppressed for increasing values of wavelength ratio when the wavelength of the inner tube is greater than the wavelength of the outer tube. From the present analysis, it is also found that the shear stress [Formula: see text] of blood is the least for a peristaltic endoscope as compared to the rigid one. Therefore, this study may be applicable to medical practitioners for laparoscopic purposes, as a peristaltic endoscope may be a more appropriate device due to its flexibility than a rigid endoscope.
AMPAR Encephalitis and Myasthenia Gravis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Cheok Lay Hock , Teh Pei Chiek , Eow Liu Hong , Goh Wan Chee , Nadiah Mohd Noor , Asmah Mohd , Gun Suk Chyn
Published: August 2024

A 38-year-old lady was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) autoimmune encephalitis, fulfilling both classification criteria during her index admission. She was subsequently diagnosed with seropositive myasthenia gravis (MG) with a typical clinical presentation. Her SLE and AMPAR encephalitis were successfully treated with immunosuppressive therapy. Her MG responded well to anti-cholinesterase inhibitors. We report a distinctive case with the association of three rare autoimmune diseases in an individual.
Extensional settings favour initial REE enrichment in the parent granites of ion-adsorption REE deposits: implications from Late Permian to Triassic granites in South China
Authors: Zhao Xu , Li Ning-bo , Niu He-cai , Tan Shu-cheng , Fu Rui-xin , Yang Yu-yuan
Published: August 2024

To understand the generation of ion-adsorption REE deposits it is important to clarify the mechanism of REE enrichment in granites. We investigated Late Permian to Triassic granites from South China to investigate these issues. Ore-related granites with high REE contents (192–467 ppm) intruded in the Late Permian have high K
2
O and Zr + Ce + Nb + Y contents, high Ga/Al and K/Na ratios and low CaO contents, and are classified as aluminous A-type granite derived from melting of felsic igneous rocks in a high-temperature extensional setting. Ore-unrelated Triassic Pingtian granite with relatively low REE contents (81.7–127 ppm) is peraluminous with occurrence of muscovite, indicating an S-type affinity. Its high Rb/Sr and low CaO/Na
2
O ratios indicate magma origin from a metapelitic source related to a compressional setting owing to continental collision. In extensional settings in South China, the high-temperature conditions promoting melting of REE-rich accessory minerals and F-rich conditions improving the solubility of REE in the melts could be the reasons for the initial REE enrichment in these granites. Given that parent rocks for ion-adsorption REE deposits are all generated in extensional settings, it is considered that multiple tectonic stages and long-term extensional setting in South China contributed to generation of the specific ion-adsorption REE deposits in South China.
Distribution of Solid Lung Nodules Presence and Size by Age and Sex in a Northern European Nonsmoking Population
Authors: Cai Jiali , Vonder Marleen , Pelgrim Gert Jan , Rook Mieneke , Kramer Gerdien , Groen Harry J.M. , de Bock Geertruida H. , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn
Published: August 2024

This study provides the prevalence and size distribution of solid lung nodules by age and sex in a Northern European nonsmoking population.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Selective Prostatic Arterial and Intravenous PSMA PET/CT Radioligand Infusions in Primary Prostatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kohlbrenner Ryan , Wu Xiao , Nguyen Hao G. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Chakravarty Tushar , Carroll Peter R. , Hope Thomas A.
Published: August 2024

Selective prostatic arterial infusion yielded higher radiotracer uptake in prostatic tumors than intravenous infusions when using dynamic prostate-specific membrane antigen PET/CT to simulate radioligand therapy.
Llama 3 Challenges Proprietary State-of-the-Art Large Language Models in Radiology Board–style Examination Questions
Authors: Adams Lisa C. , Truhn Daniel , Busch Felix , Dorfner Felix , Nawabi Jawed , Makowski Marcus R. , Bressem Keno K.
Published: August 2024

Meta’s Llama 3, an open-source large language model, performed on par with larger proprietary models, such as OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Anthropic’s Claude 3 Opus, on a subset of radiology board-style examination questions, highlighting the potential of open-source artificial intelligence in radiology.