bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual Fatigue in Unipolar and Bipolar Depression: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pastuszak Michał , Cubała Wiesław Jerzy , Jakuszkowiak‐Wojten Katarzyna , Kwaśny Aleksander , Świeczkowski Damian , Gałuszko‐Węgielnik Maria
Published: January 2025

Background

Residual fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom in patients with unipolar and bipolar depression, even after achieving partial or full remission. It significantly impacts patients' quality of life and increases the risk of relapse. This systematic review aims to evaluate the prevalence and effectiveness of therapeutic options for residual fatigue in individuals with unipolar major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD).

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases up to September 2024. The protocol for this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO. The search strategy included terms related to depression and residual fatigue. Studies were included if they provided data on adult patients diagnosed with MDD or BD, and if they measured the prevalence or treatment of residual fatigue. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for non‐randomized studies.

Results

Twenty studies were included in the review. The vast majority reported on MDD, and single papers investigated BD. Residual fatigue was reported by up to 83% of patients, and moderate to severe residual fatigue affected a smaller percentage. Pharmacological treatments, such as modafinil and to a lesser extent atomoxetine, demonstrated short‐term reductions in residual fatigue.

Conclusion

Residual fatigue remains a significant challenge in the treatment of depression, persisting in a large portion of patients despite remission. Pharmacological interventions like modafinil appear promising, but more research is needed, especially in BD. Standardized assessment tools and longer‐term studies are essential to better understand and treat residual fatigue.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO identifier: CRD42024543087
Front Cover Image
Authors: Friuli Marco , Lia Riccardo Paolo , Nitti Paola , Lamanna Leonardo , Otranto Domenico , Pombi Marco , Demitri Christian , Cafarchia Claudia
Published: January 2025

The cover image is based on the article Beauveria bassiana associated with a novel biomimetic hydrogel to control Aedes albopictus through lure and kill ovitraps by Marco Friuli et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.8476.

image
A Review of Selected Alternative Remediation Methods for PFAS Contamination
Authors: Örnhem Gal A. Olivia , Åström Mats E. , Filipsson Monika E. M.
Published: January 2025

There are numerous per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)‐contaminated areas worldwide, with aqueous film‐forming foams (AFFFs) frequently representing a significant contaminant source. This research reviews nine remediation methods and their efficacy and suitability under different environmental conditions and various PFAS. The evaluation included the remediation methods' suitability for soil or water remediation; in situ or ex situ use; effectiveness for different PFAS; cost‐effectiveness; regenerative capabilities; susceptibility to organic material, other substances, or pH; potential for PFAS‐concentrated waste production; and past use in large‐scale remediation projects. The study concludes that the methods have varying advantages and disadvantages, depending, for example, on the specific PFAS that require remediation and the type of media such as soil or water.
Adaptive Fault‐Tolerant Control of High‐Order Nonlinear Delay Systems Under Unknown Dead‐Zone Fault and Unknown Control Coefficients and Its Application
Authors: Deng Xiongfeng , Guo Li , Li Runze
Published: January 2025

This work addresses the fault‐tolerant control (FTC) problem of the high‐order nonlinear systems (HONSs). The HONSs under study are jointly affected by the unknown time delays, unknown asymmetric dead‐zone fault, and unknown control coefficients. Based on the designed Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional (LKF), the unknown time‐delay nonlinear terms of the system are effectively compensated. Through the introduction of suitable Nussbaum gain function (NGF), the issue stemming from unknown control coefficients is solved. Meanwhile, the approximation problem of unknown nonlinear dynamics is effectively tackled based on the application of radial basis function neural network (RBFNN). Furthermore, a NN‐based adaptive fault‐tolerant tracking control scheme is developed and adaptive control laws for some unknown parameters are formulated. The key feature of this control scheme is to ensure that the tracking error asymptotically converges to a small neighborhood of zero, while keeping all signals of the closed‐loop system are semi‐globally uniformly and ultimately bounded (SGUUB). Ultimately, the validity of the controller proposed in this work is testified through given examples.
Well‐Defined PtCo@Pt Core‐Shell Nanodendrite Electrocatalyst for Highly Durable Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Yin Shixin , Song Yiting , Liu Heng , Cui Jialin , Liu Zhongliang , Li Yu , Xue Tianrui , Tang Weizheng , Zhang Di , Li Hao , Li Huihui , Li Chunzhong
Published: January 2025

The rational design of efficient electrocatalysts with controllable structure and composition is crucial for enhancing the lifetime and cost‐effectiveness of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). PtCo nanocrystals have gained attention due to their exceptional activity, yet suffer from stability issues in acidic media. Herein, an active and highly stable electrocatalyst is developed, namely 3D Pt7Co3@Pt core‐shell nanodendrites (NDs), which are formed through the self‐assembly of small Pt nanoparticles (≈6 nm). This unique structure significantly improves the ORR with an enhanced mass activity (MA) of 0.54 A mgPt−1, surpassing that of the commercial Pt/C (com‐Pt/C) catalyst by three fold (0.17 A mgPt−1). The well‐organized dendritic morphology, along with the Pt‐rich shell, contributes significantly to the observed high catalytic activity and superior stability for acidic ORR, which exhibit a loss of 2.1% in MA and, impressively, an increase of 12.0% in specific activity (SA) after an accelerated durability test (ADT) of 40,000 potential‐scanning cycles. This work offers insights for improving the design of highly stable Pt‐based electrocatalysts for acidic ORR.
Skin‐Inspired and Self‐Powered Piezoionic Sensors for Smart Wearable Applications
Authors: Yu Xinpeng , Zhang Xiaohong , Lu Chao
Published: January 2025

Bio‐inspired by tactile function of human skin, piezoionic skin sensors recognize strain and stress through converting mechanical stimulus into electrical signals based on ion transfer. However, ion transfer inside sensors is significantly restricted by the lack of hierarchical structure of electrode materials, and then impedes practical application. Here, a durable nanocomposite electrode is developed based on carbon nanotubes and graphene, and integrated into piezoionic sensors for smart wearable applications, such as facial expression and exercise posture recognitions. The nanocomposite electrode provides abundant channels for ion transfer because of its hierarchically porous structure. Carbon nanotubes not only prevent restacking of graphene nanolayers, but also connect them across out‐plane dimension. The piezoionic skin sensors present a high degree of linearity in a wide strain range with high sensitivity, and long cycling life with bending strains beyond 20 000 s. Further, a smart bracelet based on flexible sensors is fabricated for accurate posture recognition of badminton exercise, valuable to athlete training.
Refinement of Liquid CaO–Al2O3 Inclusions in Duplex Stainless Steel through Ce Treatment
Authors: Zheng Lichun , Tang Xin , Li Yan , Dong Shijian , Guo Muxing , Jiang Zhouhua
Published: January 2025

Solid–liquid‐mixed inclusions may be less likely to grow into large‐sized inclusions, compared to fully liquid inclusions. To investigate this, liquid CaO–Al2O3 inclusions in duplex stainless steel are modified by adding varying amounts of Ce at 1600 °C using a vertical tube furnace, focusing on the modification process and the collision growth behavior of solid–liquid‐mixed inclusions. Ce treatment significantly reduces the inclusion size, achieving optimal results at an addition of 256 ppm, where the mean diameter of nonmetallic inclusions decreases from 2.88 ± 0.13 to 1.98 ± 0.09 μm. Furthermore, Ce treatment transforms liquid CaO–Al2O3 inclusions into core–shell‐structured solid–liquid‐mixed inclusions or solid Ce–O–S inclusions, depending on the Ce addition. As Ce addition increases from 256 to 720 ppm, the average content of Ce2O3 in the inclusions rises from 12.7% to 27.8, while Al2O3 and CaO decrease to 45.2 and 27.0%, respectively. A complex relationship exists between inclusion size and Ce2O3 content, with minimal sizes observed at around 20% Ce2O3. The presence of a solid core in solid–liquid‐mixed inclusions effectively reduces their coalescence tendency, and the underlying mechanism is analyzed.
Integration of machine learning and genome‐wide association study to explore the genomic prediction accuracy of agronomic trait in oats (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Peng Jinghan , Lei Xiong , Liu Tianqi , Xiong Yi , Wu Jiqiang , Xiong Yanli , You Minghong , Zhao Junming , Zhang Jian , Ma Xiao
Published: January 2025

Machine learning (ML) has garnered significant attention for its potential to enhance the accuracy of genomic predictions (GPs) in various economic crops with the use of complete genomic information. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) are widely used to pinpoint trait‐related causal variant loci in genomes. However, the simultaneous integration of both methods for crop genome prediction necessitates further research. In this study, we integrated ML and GWAS to assess the efficiency of GP for seven key agronomic traits in 195 oat (Avena sativa) cultivars from major oat‐growing regions around the world. A total of 94 trait‐associated single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified through the GWAS study. GP studies were conducted using the classical model genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) and six ML models. GBLUP performed poorly in predicting all traits except flag leaf width, while none of the ML models consistently provided the best prediction accuracy across all traits. The prediction accuracy of the GWAS‐derived markers was better than that of the use of genome‐wide markers, and plant height had the highest prediction rate at 100 GWAS‐derived markers, and the rest of the traits for which more markers were required. These results play an important role in advancing the use of GP in small oat breeding programs by optimizing the prediction rate of GP and reducing the number of markers, confirming that high prediction rates can be achieved with smaller datasets.
Higher partial wave contamination in finite-volume 1-to-2 transitions
Authors: Hansen M. T. , Peterken T.
Published: January 2025

Abstract

In their seminal work, Lellouch and Lüscher derived a conversion factor relating a finite-volume matrix element, calculable using numerical lattice QCD, with the infinite-volume decay amplitude for K → ππ. The conversion factor depends on the ππ → ππ scattering amplitude with the same total isospin as the decay channel (either zero or two). Although an infinite tower of ππ → ππ partial-wave components affect the conversion factor, the S-wave (ℓ = 0) component is expected to dominate, and only this contribution is included in the well-known Lellouch-Lüscher factor, with other ππ → ππ partial-wave amplitudes formally set to zero. However, as the precision of lattice calculations increases, it may become important to assess the systematic uncertainty arising from this approximation. With this motivation, we compare the S-wave-only results with those truncated at the next contaminating partial wave: the G-wave (ℓ = 4) for zero total momentum in the finite-volume frame and the D-wave (ℓ = 2) otherwise. Using the general framework for

$$ 1\overset{\mathcal{J}}{\to }2 $$

1

→
J

2

transitions derived in ref. [1], we quantify the effect of higher partial waves for systems with zero and non-zero total momentum as well as with anti-periodic boundary conditions, presenting both generic numerical examples and results for realistic ππ amplitudes taken from chiral perturbation theory and dispersive analysis. We also consider the accidental degeneracy occurring in the 8th excited state of the zero-momentum system. This exhibits qualitatively new features at ℓ = 4, not seen in the ℓ = 0 truncation.
Implant-based reconstruction and adjuvant radiotherapy in breast cancer patients—current status and DEGRO recommendations
Authors: Piroth M. D. , Krug D. , Baumann R. , Strnad V. , Borm K. , Combs S. , Corradini S. , Duma M. N. , Dunst J. , Fastner G. , Feyer P. , Fietkau R. , Harms W. , Hehr T. , Hörner-Rieber J. , Matuschek C. , Schmeel C. , Budach W. ,   Breast Cancer Expert Panel of the German Society of Radiation Oncology (DEGRO)
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The aim of this review is to give an overview of the results of prospective and retrospective studies using allogenic reconstruction and postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) in breast cancer and to make recommendations regarding this interdisciplinary approach.

Materials and methods

A PubMed search was conducted to extract relevant articles from 2000 to 2024. The search was performed using the following terms: (breast cancer) AND (reconstruction OR implant OR expander) AND (radiotherapy OR radiation). Data from the literature on allogenic breast reconstruction and radiation are presented and discussed in relation to toxicity and cosmesis.

Conclusion and recommendations

Breast reconstruction is also feasible if PMRT is necessary. Patients need to be informed about the relevant risk of capsular fibrosis and implant failure. A planned reconstruction is no reason to forgo PMRT nor is an indication for PMRT a reason to forego implant-based breast reconstruction if desired by the patient. It is important to provide detailed information here to enable shared decision-making. There is still no clear consensus regarding implant-based reconstruction (IBR) and PMRT. However, in clinical practice, both a one-stage (immediate “implant-direct” IBR) procedure with PMRT up to the final implant and a two-stage (immediate-delayed IBR) procedure with PMRT up to the tissue expander (TE) and later exchange of the TE are used; both approaches have their specific advantages and disadvantages. Depending on patient-specific factors and the surgeon’s experience and estimates, both IBR procedures are also possible in combination with PMRT. When using a TE/implant approach, completing skin stretching by adequately filling the expander before PMRT may be favorable. This approach is particularly practical when adjuvant chemotherapy is planned but may lead to postponement of radiotherapy when primary systemic therapy is given. According to the latest data, moderate hypofractionation also appears to be safe in the context of the IBR approach. It is important to have a closely coordinated interdisciplinary approach and to fully inform patients about the increased rate of potential side effects.
A novel method and comparison of methods for constructing Markov bridges
Authors: Baltazar-Larios F. , Esparza Luz Judith R.
Published: January 2025

In this study, we address the central issue of statistical inference for Markov jump processes using discrete time observations. The primary problem at hand is to accurately estimate the infinitesimal generator of a Markov jump process, a critical task in various applications. To tackle this problem, we begin by reviewing established methods for generating sample paths from a Markov jump process conditioned to endpoints, known as Markov bridges. Additionally, we introduce a novel algorithm grounded in the concept of time-reversal, which serves as our main contribution. Our proposed method is then employed to estimate the infinitesimal generator of a Markov jump process. To achieve this, we use a combination of Markov Chain Monte Carlo techniques and the Monte Carlo Expectation-Maximization algorithm. The results obtained from our approach demonstrate its effectiveness in providing accurate parameter estimates. To assess the efficacy of our proposed method, we conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis with existing techniques (Bisection, Uniformization, Direct, Rejection, and Modified Rejection), taking into consideration both speed and accuracy. Notably, our method stands out as the fastest among the alternatives while maintaining high levels of precision.
Are we systematically overdosing women? Revisiting standardized contrast protocols for thoracoabdominal CT scans
Authors: Becker Judith , Huber Adrian , Bette Stefanie , Rubeck Anna , Arndt Tim Tobias , Müller Gernot , Risch Franka , Canalini Luca , Wollny Claudia , Schwarz Florian , Scheurig-Muenkler Christian , Kroencke Thomas , Decker Josua A.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the iodine contrast in blood and solid organs differs between men and women and to evaluate the effect of BMI, height, weight, and blood volume (BV) on sex-specific contrast in staging CT.

Materials and methods

Patients receiving a venous-phase thoracoabdominal Photon-Counting Detector CT (PCD-CT) scan with 100- or 120-mL CM between 08/2021 and 01/2022 were retrospectively included in this single-center study. Image analysis was performed by measuring iodine contrast in the liver, portal vein, spleen, left atrium, left ventricle, pulmonary trunk, ascending and descending aorta on spectral PCD-CT datasets. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to assess the impact of sex, age, BMI, height, weight, and BV on the iodine contrast.

Results

A total of 274 patients were included (mean age 68 years ± 12 SD, 168 men). Iodine contrast in organs and blood attenuation was significantly higher in women when using the same volume of CM. Sex, age, BMI, height, weight, and BV significantly influenced iodine contrast. After adjusting for confounding variables, sex remained a significant factor, with women having higher parenchymal and vascular iodine contrast.

Conclusion

Standardized or weight-adapted use of CM in venous-phase thoracoabdominal CT scans results in significantly higher contrast in women compared to men. Customizing the CM dose to the patient’s BV could result in a similar contrast between sexes. This approach has the potential to reduce the amount of CM, resulting in cost savings, and to decrease the risks associated with CM, particularly for the female sex.

Key Points

QuestionThis study addresses whether current standardized iodinated contrast media protocols lead to systematically higher iodine enhancement in women than in men during thoracoabdominal CT.

FindingsWomen consistently show greater iodine enhancement in blood and abdominal organs compared to BMI-matched men when receiving identical volumes of contrast media.

Clinical relevanceAdjusting contrast media dosage based on blood volume in venous-phase CT scans could equalize parenchymal and intravascular iodine enhancement across sexes. This approach may reduce unnecessary contrast exposure in women, lower associated risks, and optimize healthcare resource allocation.
Modeling of Precipitation over Africa: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Akinsanola A. A. , Wenhaji C. N. , Barimalala R. , Monerie P.-A. , Dixon R. D. , Tamoffo A. T. , Adeniyi M. O. , Ongoma V. , Diallo I. , Gudoshava M. , Wainwright C. M. , James R. , Silverio K. C. , Faye A. , Nangombe S. S. , Pokam M. W. , Vondou D. A. , Hart N. C. G. , Pinto I. , Kilavi M. , Hagos S. , Rajagopal E. N. , Kolli R. K. , Joseph S.
Published: January 2025

In recent years, there has been an increasing need for climate information across diverse sectors of society. This demand has arisen from the necessity to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate variability and change. Likewise, this period has seen a significant increase in our understanding of the physical processes and mechanisms that drive precipitation and its variability across different regions of Africa. By leveraging a large volume of climate model outputs, numerous studies have investigated the model representation of African precipitation as well as underlying physical processes. These studies have assessed whether the physical processes are well depicted and whether the models are fit for informing mitigation and adaptation strategies. This paper provides a review of the progress in precipitation simulation over Africa in state-of-the-science climate models and discusses the major issues and challenges that remain.
Treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with colorectal cancer and synchronous lung metastases in the conversion therapy era
Authors: Nozawa Hiroaki , Suzuki Nobumi , Tsushima Tatsuya , Murono Koji , Sasaki Kazuhito , Emoto Shigenobu , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Sato Masaaki , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The Japanese Grade Classification based on the status of pulmonary and mesenteric nodal metastases and the presence of extrapulmonary metastases had a prognostic value in patients with colorectal lung metastases previously. Because the survival of such patients has improved in the era of conversion therapy, this classification needs to be reaudited.

Methods

This study reviewed the treatment sequences of 126 colorectal cancer patients with synchronous lung metastases between 2010 and 2022 at our hospital. Patients were divided into Japanese Classification Grade A, B, and C. Prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

Results

Thirty patients were initially diagnosed with resectable disease. Among these, 6 (35%) of 17 patients who were scheduled to undergo upfront surgery developed unresectable disease. In contrast, 3 (23%) of 13 patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy could not undergo curative resection. Twelve (13%) of 96 patients with initially unresectable metastases underwent conversion to complete resection after systemic therapy. On multivariate analysis, curative resection and H3 (> 5 liver metastases and maximum diameter > 5 cm) at diagnosis were independent prognostic factors, whereas the Japanese Grade Classification was not associated with OS.

Conclusion

Instead of the Japanese classification, a new prognostic classification incorporating H3 should be established.
The influence of prolonged aerobic exercise on cardiac, muscular, and renal biomarkers in trained individuals with obesity
Authors: D’Alleva M. , Sanz J. M. , Giovanelli N. , Graniero F. , Mari L. , Spaggiari R. , Sergi D. , Ghisellini S. , Passaro A. , Lazzer S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of prolonged aerobic exercise on cardiac, muscular and renal inflammatory markers in a group of trained obese men.

Methods

Seventeen men (aged 40 ± 6 years; body mass index [BMI] 31.3 ± 2.8 kg m−2, maximal oxygen uptake [V’O2max] 41.5 ± 5.6 ml kg−1 min−1) ran a half, 30 km, or full marathon. Troponin I (cTnI), the n-terminal creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), myoglobin, creatinine (CREA) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were measured before (T0), immediately after (T1) and 3 days after the race (T2).

Results

The concentrations of cTnI, myoglobin, LDH, CK-MB and CREA significantly increased (P < 0.05), whereas eGRF decreased at T1 (P < 0.05). All the above parameters returned to baseline at T2, except for eGFR, which remained lower than that at T0 (P < 0.05). A positive association was observed between ΔCK-MB (%) and the time spent in Zone 3 during the race (R = 0.686, P = 0.014). The Δmyoglobin (%) was positively correlated with race time, race mean speed and time in Zone 3 (R = 0.574–0.862, P < 0.05). The ∆CREA values were moderately correlated with the race mean HRMAX (%) and time spent in Zone 3 (%) (R = 0.514–0.610; P = 0.05). The ∆eGRF values were moderately inversely correlated with the time spent in Zone 3 (%) (R =  – 0.627; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Changes in cardiac, muscular and renal inflammatory markers in trained men with obesity are consistent with those described in the literature in normal-weight individuals. Finally, running parameters, such as running time, average running intensity and time in Zone 3 appear to be responsible for the changes in cardiac, muscular and renal function markers after long-distance running.
A new approach to weighted Sobolev spaces
Authors: Kebiche Djameleddine
Published: January 2025

We present in this paper a new way to define weighted Sobolev spaces when the weight functions are arbitrary small. This new approach can replace the old one consisting in modifying the domain by removing the set of points where at least one of the weight functions is very small. The basic idea is to replace the distributional derivative with a new notion of weak derivative. In this way, non-locally integrable functions can be considered in these spaces. Indeed, assumptions under which a degenerate elliptic partial differential equation has a unique non-locally integrable solution are given. Tools like a Poincaré inequality and a trace operator are developed, and density results of smooth functions are established.
Effect of Trap Type and Killing Agent On the Capture of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Adults in Cotton
Authors: Lampiri Evagelia , Zisimou Georgia , Athanassiou Christos G.
Published: January 2025

The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the main pests of cotton and other economically important crops worldwide. Pheromone traps can be used to monitor H. armigera males. The trap type is an important monitoring system component, along with the killing agent inside the trap. In the first series of this study, we evaluated the performance and efficiency of one commercial funnel trap and two novel funnel traps. In a second series, brown quadruple funnel traps impregnated with a different killing agent, i.e. deltamethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin were utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of the insecticide in capturing adult males of H. armigera. The trials were performed in cotton crops in the region of Anthili, Fthiotida, Central Greece. Captures notably increased in all traps from late July to mid-September. The commercial funnel trap exhibited the highest capture of H. armigera males, collecting an average of 2.12 males in total compared to 1.14 and 1.44 of double and quadruple funnel, respectively, while in most of the trap-check dates tested, there were no significant differences between the killing agents. The present findings could additionally be applied to H. armigera monitoring programs in cotton fields.
Landslide dynamics with energy loss in internal shearing
Authors: Pudasaini Shiva P. , Mergili Martin
Published: January 2025

As a crucial physical parameter, inter-particle friction plays a dominant role in the deformation, motion, and spreading of granular landslides. However, existing functional landslide models ignore the frictional energy loss in the internal shearing of granular material. Here, we propose a novel dynamical model that includes the frictional energy loss in internal shearing during the mass transport, making it a more complete landslide dynamical equation, for the first time, capable of describing the frictional energy dissipation. It includes a dimensionless intrinsic quantity describing the strength of frictional energy loss in internal shearing, internal friction angle, and dynamical quantities: the force induced by free-surface gradient, local extensional-compressional mode, slip velocity along the granular surface, and material weight. We access the model performance by presenting contrasting scenarios. Simulation results, including the 1903 Frank Slide, demonstrate the importance of frictional energy loss in actively controlling the deformation, motion, and deposition of sheared granular flows. Profiles and geometries are fundamentally different without and with considering frictional energy loss in granular shearing. Deposition structures appear more realistic for simulations with frictional energy loss, in line with observation, revealing the importance of frictional energy loss in internal shearing. This demonstrates, classical models, based solely on the basal Coulomb friction, cannot properly control the landslide dynamics. In contrast, the new model more accurately simulates the landslide propagation, run-out, spreading, and its fan morphology. This suggests the need to complement existing mass flow models with the new frictional energy loss principle in granular shearing in physically legitimately controlling the mass spreading, motion, and deposition.
Long-Acting Injectable Prep for People Who Inject Drugs at a Syringe Services Program: A Qualitative Acceptability and Feasibility Study
Authors: Suarez Edward , Tookes Hansel E. , Coppola Marissa , Plesons Marina , Serota David , St. George Sara M. , Bartholomew Tyler S.
Published: January 2025

Although people who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk of acquiring HIV, knowledge and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among this population remain low due to numerous psychosocial and structural barriers. Multiple implementation strategies have been proposed to address this gap, notably providing long-acting injectable (LAI) formulations of PrEP and offering PrEP at syringe services programs (SSPs). This qualitative study explores the acceptability and feasibility of offering LAI-PrEP for PWID at risk for HIV at Florida’s first legal SSP. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with PWID (n = 25) and healthcare providers (n = 5), and transcripts were analyzed using iterative thematic analysis. The provision of LAI-PrEP at the SSP was overwhelmingly acceptable to both PWID and providers, and specific advantages and disadvantages of LAI-PrEP compared to oral PrEP among this population were elucidated. Likewise, PWID and providers identified facilitators and barriers to offering LAI-PrEP at the SSP and proposed recommendations for implementation. Overall, this study adds to the growing evidence that provision of LAI-PrEP at SSPs is acceptable and feasible and holds promise in expanding access to and uptake of HIV prevention services among PWID.
Lusztig Varieties and Macdonald Polynomials
Authors: Ram Arun
Published: January 2025

This paper uses Lusztig varieties to give central elements of the Iwahori-Hecke algebra corresponding to unipotent conjugacy classes in the finite Chevalley group $$GL_n(\mathbb {F}_q)$$

G

L
n

(

F
q

)

. We explain how these central elements are related to Macdonald polynomials and how this provides a framework for generalizing integral form and modified Macdonald polynomials to Lie types other than $$GL_n$$

G

L
n

. The key steps are to recognize (a) that counting points in Lusztig varieties is equivalent to computing traces on the Hecke algebras, (b) that traces on the Hecke algebra determine elements of the center of the Hecke algebra, (c) that the Geck-Rouquier basis elements of the center of the Hecke algebra produce an ‘expansion matrix’, (d) that the parabolic subalgebras of the Hecke algebra produce a ‘contraction matrix’ and (e) that the combination ‘expansion-contraction’ is the plethystic transformation that relates integral form Macdonald polynomials and modified Macdonald polynomials.
The Past, Ethnic Purity, and the Foundations of Nazi Ideology: Archaeology at War
Authors: Cornell Per , Andersson Adam
Published: January 2025

This article examines the articulation between archaeology and ideology in Nazi Germany, specifically the ideological content in archaeological narratives. We analyze German archaeology of this period in light of 19th century pan-Germanism and the German thinkers who helped shape the notion of a German national identity. Archaeology was utilized to strengthen Nazi ideology, with a particular focus on promoting ideas related to ancestry, homeland, militarism, and nationalistic fervor. The idea of Nordicism, whether pertaining to spirituality or geography, had a substantial influence on the interpretation of archaeological findings and the development of ideological narratives. The approach of Gustaf Kossinna can be viewed as the culmination of this archaeological connection to Nordicism, and it can be better understood by examining the scholars who shaped the contemporary understanding of the German national identity. Kossinna’s version of prehistory—a convoluted story of a Germanic origin—gained dominance and exerted influence over official publications and archaeological methodologies at the time. In this perspective, German was the mix of two Nordic races. This idea of a mix helped explain certain differences among populations in the Third Reich, making them part of the origin story itself. Although archaeology was not a central component of Nazi ideology, officials still showed a preference for it and employed it in many ways. Valuable knowledge obtained through a deep analysis of the Nazi case regarding the connection between ideology, warfare, and archaeological methods can help in future studies on the articulations between archaeology, ideology, and warfare.
Industry-specific Labour Demand, Post-prison Employment and Recidivism – Evidence from Finland
Authors: Laine Riku , Aaltonen Mikko , Martikainen Pekka , Myrskylä Mikko
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To test the effect of local, industry-specific labour demand on employment and recidivism following a person’s release from a prison in Finland.

Methods

This study was an observational study based on administrative data. The data included all working-aged men (N = 33,270) released from prison between 2007 and 2018 in Finland. We analysed the industry of the employers descriptively and studied the effect of labour demand on employment and recidivism rates post-release with a linear probability model. Labour demand was measured by counting new employments that began in the first 30 days post-release in the region the subject resided in at the time of release. Employment and recidivism were analysed with a 6- and 12-month follow-up.

Results

Of the study population, 11.1% were employed and 44.7% recidivated in the first 6 months. We found the most common employers to be the construction and manufacturing industries along with temporary work agencies. Our models indicated that the low-skill labour demand in construction increased the likelihood of employment (β = 0.0108, se = 0.0026) but did not reduce the risk of recidivism (β = 0.0030, se = 0.0045).

Conclusions

Higher labour demand may not lead to lower recidivism in all contexts. As the effect of labour demand may be driven by specific societal or labour market characteristics, further research should focus on identifying the characteristics that affect recidivism and post-prison employment. As this study may only be generalisable to the Finnish prison population, similar studies are needed from varied contexts.
Representations of Nature of Science in Chinese Physics Curriculum Standards over the Past Two Decades
Authors: Xie Li , Wang Li-Mei , Li Zhi , Bao Lei
Published: January 2025

The importance of nature of science (NOS) for promoting science literacy and its fundamental role in science education are widely acknowledged. Employing the analytical framework of the family resemblance approach (FRA), which conceptualizes NOS as a combination of cognitive-epistemic and social-institutional systems involving 11 NOS categories, this study investigates how NOS are represented within three successive versions of Chinese physics curriculum standards over the past two decades. To offer a comprehensive view, the epistemic network analysis (ENA) is also utilized to visually depict and compare the evolving frequency of connections among the NOS categories over time. The result reveals a consistent underrepresentation of the social-institutional system, notably marked by the absence of three categories: professional activities, social organizations and interactions, and financial systems. However, there is a slight upward trend observed in social categories of NOS, indicating a growing awareness of this imbalance. The ENA analysis further demonstrates a steady increase in connections among NOS categories within the physics curriculum standards, while connections are more frequent and extensive within the cognitive-epistemic system compared to the social-institutional system. These findings provide valuable insights for the enhancement of the current physics curriculum standards, aiming to establish a more comprehensive and progressive approach to NOS education. As China’s curriculum reform advances, addressing the insufficient representations of NOS through the FRA lens can help foster a deeper understanding of nature of science, ultimately promoting science literacy among students.
From Proof-Theoretic Validity to Base-Extension Semantics for Intuitionistic Propositional Logic
Authors: Gheorghiu Alexander V. , Pym David J.
Published: January 2025

Proof-theoretic semantics (P-tS) is the approach to meaning in logic based on proof (as opposed to truth). There are two major approaches to P-tS: proof-theoretic validity (P-tV) and base-extension semantics (B-eS). The former is a semantics of arguments, and the latter is a semantics of logical constants. This paper demonstrates that the B-eS for intuitionistic propositional logic (IPL) encapsulates the declarative content of a version of P-tV based on the elimination rules. This explicates how the B-eS for IPL works, and shows the completeness of this version of P-tV.
Merely verbal agreement, speaker-meaning, and defective context
Authors: Koch Steffen
Published: January 2025

In a merely verbal agreement, a misunderstanding between two parties creates the false impression of agreement: one or both parties think they agree on something, when in fact they do not. There is reason to believe that merely verbal agreements are as common as merely verbal disagreements and disputes. Unlike the latter, however, merely verbal agreements have so far been ignored by philosophers. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to clarify what merely verbal agreement is by considering various ways of defining and refining the notion; and second, to explore the effects of merely verbal agreement on conversational common ground, collaborative action, and academic philosophy. It will be argued that merely verbal agreement is best understood in terms of divergent speaker-meanings, that it has specific negative effects on common ground, that it impedes collaborative action, and that it is likely to play a significant role in academic philosophy.
The debate over proximate and ultimate causation in biology
Authors: Shan Yafeng
Published: January 2025

It has been over 60 years since Ernst Mayr famously argued for the distinction between proximate and ultimate causes in biology. In the following decades, Mayr’s proximate-ultimate distinction was well received within evolutionary biology and widely regarded as a major contribution to the philosophy of biology. Despite its enormous influence, there has been a persistent controversy on the distinction. It has been argued that the distinction is untenable. In addition, there have been complaints about the pragmatic value of the distinction in biological research. Some even suggested that the distinction should better be abandoned. In contrast, Mayr had consistently maintained the significance of the proximate-ultimate distinction in biology. There are also other attempts to defend the distinction. The paper examines the debate by taking an integrated History and Philosophy of Science (HPS) approach and argues for a functional approach to causal concepts in scientific practice.
Detection of an invasive plant (Cissus verticillata) in the largest mangrove system on the eastern Pacific coast—a remote sensing approach
Authors: Valderrama-Landeros Luis , Camacho-Cervantes Morelia , Velázquez-Salazar Samuel , Villeda-Chávez Edgar , Flores-Verdugo Francisco , Flores-de-Santiago Francisco
Published: January 2025

The identification and monitoring of invasive plant species utilizing spaceborne sensors have posed substantial challenges over the past few decades, mainly due to a scarcity of state-of-the-art sensors, limited digital processing capabilities, and the presence of a phenological spectral feature that is not readily detectable by conventional methods. The invasive plant Cissus verticillata, first detected in 2017, has affected the largest mangrove system on the eastern Pacific coast—Marismas Nacionales—spreading rapidly and aggressively through the mangrove canopy, and causing degradation and even mortality, mainly of Rhizophora mangle, by obstructing the sunlight over the canopy. The purpose of this study was to isolate the multispectral signal from Cissus verticillata by using a cloud computing approach with Google Earth Engine and generate a comprehensive map of the entire mangrove system by means of a novel dense time series of Sentinel-2 data. Results indicate that the optimal period for detecting Cissus verticillata is between October and December. Furthermore, this species is expanding its range along the riverbanks in the central region of Marismas Nacionales, with its coverage increasing from 426.16 ha in 2019 to 838.08 ha in 2021. These areas were verified with a field endeavor and have signified a substantial development, given that the plant had not been previously identified in this region with conventional field methods due to logistical constraints. The findings and approach of this study will contribute to the decision-making required to manage this invasive plant.
Community-based valuation of wetland ecosystem services: insights from Bamenda, Cameroon
Authors: Dingha Chrispo Babila , Biber-Freudenberger Lisa , Mbanga Lawrence Akei , Kometa Sunday Shende
Published: January 2025

Wetlands provide important benefits in terms of provisioning, cultural, regulating and supporting ecosystem services to societies all over the world, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the existence of multiple approaches for the valuation of these services, economic methods have dominated the scientific debate with infrequent integration of non-monetary valuation methods to capture community perceptions. This paper aims to assess the value of ecosystem services provided by wetlands based on the perception of the local community in Bamenda Cameroon. We explore if this perception is influenced by factors such as gender, education, and sub-division of residence in relation to the wetland area using a questionnaire administered purposively to a total of 400 respondents living/carrying out activities in and around wetlands. We complemented this methodology with field observation to explore aspects of wetland utilisation on the ground beyond the pre-defined survey questions assessing communities’ perception of the importance of different ecosystem services. Data was entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 20) for wrangling and visualisation in R (version 4.3.0). The results indicate that the most valued wetland ecosystem services are directly linked to peoples’ livelihood such as the provision of food, traditional agricultural practices and the support of habitats to various plants and animals collected or hunted by local people. We also found a significant difference between the perception of the importance of ecosystem services based on educational level and sub-division of location in relation to wetlands (P-value ≤ 0.01), suggesting that communities living closer to the wetlands appreciate the importance of the ecosystem services relatively more than those living further away. Our results are relevant for improved recognition and integration of local community interest and engagement for inclusive wetland conservation and management.
Removal of Ampicillin with Nitrifying Cultures in a SBR Reactor
Authors: Maturano-Carrera Daniel , Oltehua-López Omar , Cuervo-López Flor de María , Texier Anne-Claire
Published: January 2025

The presence of antibiotics in wastewater discharges significantly affects the environment, mainly due to the generation of bacterial populations with multiple antibiotic resistances. The cometabolic capacity of nitrifying sludge to simultaneously remove ammonium (NH4+) and emerging organic contaminants (EOCs), including antibiotics, has been reported. In the present study, the removal capacity of 50 mg ampicillin (AMP)/L by nitrifying cultures associated with biosorption and biotransformation processes was evaluated in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) system. The contribution of nitrifying enzymes (ammonium monooxygenase (AMO) and nitrite oxidoreductase (NOR)) and β-lactamases in AMP biodegradation was evaluated using specific inhibitors in batch cultures. AMP was 100% eliminated after 5 h since the first cycle of operation. The sludge maintained its ammonium oxidizing capacity with the total consumption of 102.0 ± 2.5 mg NH4+-N/L in 9 h, however, the addition of AMP altered the nitrite-oxidizing process of nitrification, recovering 30 cycles later at both physiological and kinetic level. The kinetic activity of the nitrifying sludge improved along the operating cycles for both AMP removal and nitrification processes. The elimination of 24% AMP was attributed to the biosorption process and 76% to biotransformation, wherein the AMO enzyme contributed 95% to its biodegradation. Finally, the repeated exposure of the sludge to AMP for 72 operating cycles (36 days) was not sufficient to detect β-lactamase activity. The cometabolic ability of ammonium-oxidizing bacteria for biodegrading AMP could be employed for bioremediation of wastewater.

Graphical Abstract
Relations among family communication, cognitive flexibility, and happiness in Turkish adults: a longitudinal mediation model
Authors: Okur Sinan , Ümmet Durmuş , Satıcı Seydi Ahmet , Kütük Hasan
Published: January 2025

Family relationships and family life are important protective factors for psychological health. Establishing healthy communication between members of a family is important for the happiness of individuals. There are several cross-sectional findings regarding family communication in the literature. A longitudinal design was used to examine the mediating effect of cognitive flexibility in the relationship between family communication and happiness, taking into consideration the limitations of the cross-sectional design. In this study, data from the Turkish adult sample (N = 277) was collected in two waves at four-month intervals. The ages of the sample group [195 (70.4%) female and 82 (29.6%) male] are between 20 and 55. The average age was calculated as 29.66 (SD = 8.27). We used the cross-lagged panel model for the half-longitudinal mediation model for testing mediation with two time points at four-month intervals. The findings revealed that the variables of the study had significant longitudinal associations, and cognitive flexibility played a longitudinal mediating role in the relationship between family communication and happiness. The current results prove the importance of healthy relationships among family members and highlight the significant influence of family communication and cognitive flexibility on happiness.