bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dry Sliding Wear Performances of AA5052 Hybrid Composite Brake Disc Materials Reinforced With In Situ Synthesized TiC and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube
Authors: Samal Priyaranjan , Vundavilli Pandu R.
Published: April 2023

In this research, aluminum alloy AA5052-based hybrid metal matrix composites (MMCs) were fabricated using in situ synthesized titanium carbide (TiC) and ex situ multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) as reinforcements using the liquid metallurgy route. The wear characteristics of the aluminum hybrid MMCs were analyzed under the synergistic effects of TiC and multi-walled CNT. Pin-on-disc wear setup was utilized for the experimental investigation where the hybrid composite is considered as the disc, and the traditional brake pad material is treated as the pin. The parameters, i.e., sliding distance, applied load, sliding velocity, and reinforcement content, are treated as inputs, whereas the wear-rate and coefficient of friction are considered output variables for the tribological experimentation. The influence of various input process parameters on the tribological behavior of the fabricated samples was investigated. The plastic deformation attained by the base alloy exhibited delamination, which indicates adhesive wear, whereas the composites exhibited abrasive nature as analyzed from the wear surface morphology. The wear debris was characterized by flake-sized, corrugated, and oxidized by the microstructural study.
Metastatic dormancy needs STING
Authors: Baek Amy E.
Published: April 2023

STING activity in cancer cells prevents the progression of dormant metastasis.
Antiviral Properties of HIV-1 Capsid Inhibitor GSK878
Authors: Wang Chunfu , Huang Haichang , Mallon Kirsten , Valera Lourdes , Parcella Kyle , Cockett Mark I. , Kadow John F. , Gillis Eric P. , Krystal Mark , Fridell Robert A.
Published: April 2023

GSK878 is a newly described HIV-1 inhibitor that binds to the mature capsid (CA) hexamer in a pocket originally identified as the binding site of the well-studied CA inhibitor PF-74. Here, we show that GSK878 is highly potent, inhibiting an HIV-1 reporter virus in MT-2 cells with a mean 50% effective concentration (EC
50
) of 39 pM and inhibiting a panel of 48 chimeric viruses containing diverse CA sequences with a mean EC
50
of 94 pM.
A Tripartite Complex HIV-1 Tat-Cyclophilin A-Capsid Protein Enables Tat Encapsidation That Is Required for HIV-1 Infectivity
Authors: Schatz Malvina , Marty Laetitia , Ounadjela Camille , Tong Phuoc Bao Viet , Cardace Ilaria , Mettling Clément , Milhiet Pierre-Emmanuel , Costa Luca , Godefroy Cédric , Pugnière Martine , Guichou Jean-François , Mesnard Jean-Michel , Blaise Mickaël , Beaumelle Bruno
Published: April 2023

The viral transactivating protein Tat has been shown to stimulate several steps of HIV gene expression. It was found to facilitate reverse transcription.
Engineered Superinfective Pf Phage Prevents Dissemination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a Mouse Burn Model
Authors: Prokopczuk Federico I. , Im Hansol , Campos-Gomez Javier , Orihuela Carlos J. , Martínez Eriel
Published: April 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a major cause of burn-related infections. It is also the most likely bacterial infection to advance to sepsis and result in burn-linked death.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Burkholderia ambifaria Strain Q53, a Potential Plant Growth Promoter Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Peanut
Authors: Nievas Fiorela , Revale Santiago , Foresto Emiliano , Carezzano María Evangelina , Primo Emiliano , Alzari Pedro , Martínez Mariano , Ben-Assaya Mathilde , Mornico Damien , Santoro Maricel , Giordano Walter , Bogino Pablo
Published: April 2023

We report the complete genome sequence of
Burkholderia ambifaria
strain Q53, an environmental rhizobacterium isolated from the rhizosphere of peanut plants. The genome consists of 7.4 Mbp distributed into three circular chromosomes and was determined using a hybrid long- and short-read assembly approach.
MvfR Controls Tolerance to Polymyxin B by Regulating
rfaD
in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhou Yuchen , Bai Yuxi , Pan Xiaolei , Ha Un-Hwan , Cheng Zhihui , Wu Weihui , Jin Yongxin , Bai Fang
Published: April 2023

Antibiotic resistance imposes a considerable challenge for the treatment of
P. aeruginosa
infections. Polymyxins are the last-resort antibiotics for the treatment of multidrug-resistant
P. aeruginosa
infections.
Ankle syndesmotic reconstruction in chronic ankle syndesmotic injury
Authors: Sharafeldin Khalid , Eltinay Mohammed , Al Qahtani Mohammed , Alblaui Sultan M
Published: April 2023

Acute syndesmotic injury is a common problem treated with different surgical tools. If not managed appropriately, it can lead to chronic ankle syndesmotic insufficiency. Chronic syndesmotic insufficiency is challenging to diagnose, and the patient can suffer for a long time. There is no consensus in previous literature on the surgical treatment of chronic syndesmotic injury. We present a case of personnel who suffered from chronic syndesmotic injury treated by syndesmotic reconstruction 5 years after his ankle fracture dislocation and returned to his work. This case highlights the importance of a CT scan post-reduction of an acute syndesmotic injury to assess accurate reduction, especially in severe injuries with frank diastasis.
Spinal cord infarction resulting from intramural haematoma of the thoracic aorta
Authors: Bittner Tyler , Babbush Connor , Vincent Ashley Chey , Rokkam Venkata
Published: April 2023

We present the case of a female patient in her 60s with multiple medical comorbidities who presented to the emergency department with sudden-onset tearing chest, back and abdominal pain in the setting of a hypertensive emergency. Initial CT-angiography demonstrated mild-diffuse thickening of thoracic and abdominal aorta without signs of intramural haematoma or dissection. The patient was subsequently admitted and medically managed. In the days following admission, the patient developed a small bowel obstruction and neurological deficits. Repeat imaging demonstrated an intramural haematoma extending from left subclavian artery to the diaphragm resulting in foci of spinal cord infarction. Instances of spinal cord infarction secondary to aortic intramural haematoma are rare, with a minority of cases reported as of 2020. This case report highlights a non-classic patient presentation of an intramural haematoma, shedding light onto possible clinical outcomes, treatment options and important risk factors.
Atypical mycobacterial infection masquerading as an endobronchial growth in an immunocompromised host
Authors: Thomas Arun Rajan , Prasad Virender Pratibh , Sethi Shweta , Maturu Venkata Nagarjuna
Published: April 2023

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous organisms. Endobronchial growth as a presenting feature of NTM disease is uncommon. Here we present a case of a patient with retroviral disease on antiretroviral therapy, presenting with cough, wheezing and exertional dyspnoea. High-resolution CT showed a partial obstruction of the left main bronchus (LMB). Bronchoscopy showed an endobronchial growth in the distal LMB. An endobronchial biopsy showed non-necrotising granulomas; bronchial wash for acid-fast bacilli was positive and culture grewMycobacterium aviumcomplex. He was treated with a combination therapy of clarithromycin, rifampicin and ethambutol. Repeat bronchoscopy after 6 weeks of therapy showed complete resolution of the endobronchial growth.
‘Now I can train myself to be with death’: a phenomenological study with young doctors in care homes supported by a palliative care unit during the second wave of the pandemic in Italy
Authors: Moroni Matteo , Díaz Crescitelli Matías Eduardo , Capuccini Jenny , Pedroni Cristina , Bianco Mattia , Montanari Luigi , Ghirotto Luca
Published: April 2023

Objective

During the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the organisational strategies established by the Italian National Health System was the special units for continuity of care (SUCCs). In the province of Ravenna, those units enrolled novice doctors to care for elderly patients with COVID-19 in care homes (CHs). The local palliative care (PC) unit decided to offer consultations and support to them. This study aimed to comprehend the experience of young doctors who asked for consultations when facing, during their first early years of practice, complex situations.

Design

We conducted a qualitative study employing a phenomenological approach and in-depth interviews.

Participants

We involved 10 young doctors who worked in Italian SUCC during the pandemic and used a PC consultation support service.

Results

What describes our participants’ experience is related to four main themes: (1) reducing distances, (2) perceiving medical futility and improvising, (3) being supported to learn how to be with death and (4) narrowed timing to humanise care. The pandemic was, for our participants, a moment of reflection and critique on the skills acquired during the university course. It was a strong experience of human and professional growth that helped them reshape and deepen their role and skills, incorporating the approach of PC into their professional identity.

Conclusions

Integration between specialists and young doctors with an early entry into the workforce during the pandemic in CHs set out a ‘shift’ to a proactive and creative approach through a new awareness of professional and personal roles in doctor–patient relations. The continuity of care models should be rethought by integrating CHs and PC. Adequate PC training for young doctors (at pregraduate and postgraduate levels) can change doctors’ vision and daily practice in assisting patients at the end of life.
Physio-psycho-social interaction mechanism in dyadic health of young and middle-aged stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers: a longitudinal observational study protocol
Authors: Xiang Dandan , Zhang Zhen-xiang , Ge Song , Wang Wen na , Lin Bei-lei , Chen Su-yan , Guo Er-feng , Zhang Peng-bo , Liu Zhi-wei , Li Hui , Mei Yong-xia
Published: April 2023

Introduction

In recent years, stroke has become more common among young people. Stroke not only has a profound impact on patients’ health but also incurs stress and health threats to their caregivers, especially spousal caregivers. Moreover, the health of stroke survivors and their caregivers is interdependent. To our knowledge, no study has explored dyadic health of young and middle-aged stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers from physiological, psychological and social perspectives. Therefore, this proposed study aims to explore the mechanism of how physiological, psychological and social factors affect dyadic health of young and middle-aged stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers. The findings of this study will provide implications for developing interventions to improve dyadic health of this growing population.

Methods and analyses

We will collect data from 57 dyads of young and middle-aged stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers during hospitalisation and at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after discharge. Questionnaires will be used to collect participants’ demographic information, stress, depression, anxiety, benefit finding, social support, mutuality and quality of life. The following physiological reactions will be collected at baseline, including interleukin 6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and salivary cortisol.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the ethics review committee of life sciences of Zhengzhou University (No. ZZUIRB2020-53). Prior to being enrolled in the study, participants will be given full and detailed information about the possible risks involved, the informed consent process, confidentiality, the study procedure and secure data storage. Participants will be guaranteed that they can withdraw from the study at any time without providing a reason or leading to any consequences. Both oral and written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The findings of this proposed study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences.
Association between the volume of fluid resuscitation and mortality modified by disease severity in patients with sepsis in ICU: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zheng Rui , Jin Xinhao , Liao Weichao , Lin Ling
Published: April 2023

Objective

The important effect modifiers of high disease severity on the relationship between the different volumes of early fluid resuscitation and prognosis in septic patients are unknown. Thus, this study was designed to assess whether the efficacy of different volumes in the early fluid resuscitation treatment of sepsis is affected by disease severity.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients with sepsis from 2001 to 2012 in the MIMIC-III database.

Interventions

The intravenous fluid volume within 6 hours after the sepsis diagnosis serves as the primary exposure. The patients were divided into the standard (≥ 30 mL/kg) and restrict (<30 mL/kg) groups. Disease severity was defined by the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score at ICU admission. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to ensure the robustness of our results.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary endpoint of this study was 28-day mortality. Days without needing mechanical ventilation or vasopressor administration within 28-day of ICU admission serving as the secondary endpoint.

Results

In total, 5154 consecutive individuals were identified in data analysis, 776 patients had a primary end-point event, 386 (49.68%) in the restrict group and 387 (49.81%) in the standard group. Compared with the restrict group, the standard group had higher 28-day mortality (adjusted HR, 1.32; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.70; p=0.03) in the subgroup with a sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score ≥10. By contrast, the risk of mortality reduction was modest in the subgroup with an SOFA score <10 (adjusted HR, 0.85; 95% CI 0.70 to 1.03; p=0.10). The effect of the interaction between the SOFA score and fluid resuscitation strategies on the 28-day mortality was significant (p=0.0035).

Conclusions

High disease severity modifies the relationship between the volume of fluid resuscitation and mortality in patients with sepsis in the ICU; future studies investigating this interaction are warranted.
Prevalence of atypical pathogens in patients with severe pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Sidan , Tang Jiaoqi , Tan Yurong , Song Zhi , Qin Ling
Published: April 2023

Objectives

We aimed to summarise the prevalence of atypical pathogens in patients with severe pneumonia to understand the prevalence of severe pneumonia caused by atypical pathogens, improve clinical decision-making and guide antibiotic use.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched through November 2022.

Eligibility criteria

English language studies enrolled consecutive cases of patients diagnosed with severe pneumonia, with complete aetiological analysis.

Data extraction and synthesis

We conducted literature retrieval on PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library to estimate the prevalence ofChlamydia,MycoplasmaandLegionellain patients with severe pneumonia. After double arcsine transformation of the data, a random-effects model was used for meta-analyses to calculate the pooled prevalence of each pathogen. Meta-regression analysis was also used to explore whether the region, different diagnostic method, study population, pneumonia categories or sample size were potential sources of heterogeneity.

Results

We included 75 eligible studies with 18 379 cases of severe pneumonia. The overall prevalence of atypical pneumonia is 8.1% (95% CI 6.3% to 10.1%) In patients with severe pneumonia, the pooled estimated prevalence ofChlamydia,MycoplasmaandLegionellawas 1.8% (95% CI 1.0% to 2.9%), 2.8% (95% CI 1.7% to 4.3%) and 4.0% (95% CI 2.8% to 5.3%), respectively. We noted significant heterogeneity in all pooled assessments. Meta-regression showed that the pneumonia category potentially influenced the prevalence rate ofChlamydia. The mean age and the diagnostic method of pathogens were likely moderators for the prevalence ofMycoplasmaandLegionella, and contribute to the heterogeneity of their prevalence.

Conclusions

In severe pneumonia, atypical pathogens are notable causes, especiallyLegionella. The diagnostic method, regional difference, sample size and other factors contribute to the heterogeneity of prevalence. The estimated prevalence and relative heterogeneity factors can help with microbiological screening, clinical treatment and future research planning.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022373950.
Investigating divergent thinking and creative ability in surgeons (IDEAS): a survey protocol
Authors: Thabane Alex , Busse Jason W , Sonnadara Ranil , Bhandari Mohit
Published: April 2023

Introduction

A strong pipeline of creative ideas and individuals is critical if we are to tackle the complex healthcare challenges we will face in the 21st century. The field of creativity is severely underinvestigated in the context of surgery, and it is of interest to explore the level and nature of creativity in surgeons, across various specialties and backgrounds. Identifying the areas of surgery with strong and weak levels of creativity, as well as the predictors of high creativity among surgeons, may aid in the selection and training of future surgeons.

Methods and analysis

A convenience sample of surgeons from the Department of Surgery and McMaster University will be used for the recruitment of participants. The Abbreviated Torrance Test for Adults, a three-part test of divergent thinking ability, will be administered to measure the level and nature of creativity among surgeons. Descriptive analyses and multiple linear regression models are planned to synthesise the results of the survey and identify predictors of divergent thinking ability among surgeons.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval from the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board was obtained. No harm is expected due to participation in this study. The results of this survey will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated through conferences and presentations at the regional, national and international levels.
Sex differences in neurology: a scoping review
Authors: Moores Ginette , Steadman Patrick E , Momen Amirah , Wolff Elena , Pikula Aleksandra , Bui Esther
Published: April 2023

Objective

Historically, neurology research has demonstrated a sex bias with mainly male subjects included in clinical trials as well as lack of reporting of data by sex. In recent years, emphasis has been placed on increased participation of female participants and explicit declaration/evaluation of sex differences in clinical research.

We aimed to review the available literature examining sex differences across four subspecialty areas in neurology (demyelination, headache, stroke, epilepsy) and whether sex and gender terms have been used appropriately.

Design

This scoping review was performed by searching Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, Ovid Emcare and APA PsycINFO databases from 2014 to 2020. Four independent pairs of reviewers screened titles, abstracts and full texts. Studies whose primary objective was to assess sex or gender differences among adults with one of four neurological conditions were included. We report the scope, content and trends of previous studies that have evaluated sex differences in neurology.

Results

The search retrieved 22 745 articles. Five hundred and eighty-five studies met the inclusion criteria in the review. The majority of studies were observational, often examining similar concepts designed for a different country or regional population, with rare randomised controlled trials designed specifically to assess sex differences in neurology. There was heterogeneity observed in areas of sex-specific focus between the four subspecialty areas. Thirty-six per cent (n=212) of articles used the terms sex and gender interchangeably or incorrectly.

Conclusions

Sex and gender are important biological and social determinants of health. However, the more explicit recognition of these factors in clinical literature has not been adequately translated to significant change in neuroscience research regarding sex differences. This study illustrates the ongoing need for more urgent informed action to recognise and act on sex differences in scientific discovery and correct the use of sex and gender terminology.

Trial Registration

The protocol for this scoping review was registered with Open Science Framework.
Advanced heart failure patients and family caregivers health and function: randomised controlled pilot trial of online dignity therapy
Authors: Yang Weiling , Zhang Xiaonan , Li Yanting , Lv Qingyun , Gao Xinxing , Lin Mei , Zang Xiaoying
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This research investigated the effectiveness of the caregiver-mediated online dignity therapy in enhancing dyadic health and family function.

Methods

Heart failure (HF) family dyads were recruited between May and December 2021 from a university-affiliated hospital in China. The dyads (N=70) were randomly allocated to the intervention group and the control group. We assessed patients’ outcomes (hope, well-being, Family APGAR Index and quality of life (QoL)) and their family caregivers’ outcomes (anxiety, depression and Family APGAR Index) at baseline (T0), 1 week (T1), 4 weeks (T2) and 8 weeks (T3) after discharge.

Results

For patients, the difference over time was significant in QoL (p<0.001). The interaction effects were significant for hope (p<0.001), well-being (p<0.001), Family APGAR Index (p<0.001) and QoL (p=0.007). For family caregivers, a significant difference in depression (p=0.001) was found within groups. Meanwhile, the interaction effects were significant on anxiety (p=0.002) and depression (p=0.016).

Conclusions

Caregiver-mediated online dignity therapy among patients with advanced HF had potential to enhance patient outcomes (level of hope, well-being, family function and QoL) and alleviate caregiver outcomes (anxiety, depression) at 4-week and 8-week follow-up. Thus, we provided scientific evidence for palliative care for advanced HF.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100053758.
Analysis of financial challenges faced by graduate students in Canada
Authors: Laframboise Sarah Jane , Bailey Thomas , Dang Anh-Thu , Rose Mercedes , Zhou Zier , Berg Matthew D. , Holland Stephen , Abdul Sami Aftab , O'Connor Kaela , El-Sahli Sara , Boucher Dominique M. , Fairman Garrett , Deng Jacky , Shaw Katherine , Noblett Nathaniel , D’Addario Alexa , Empey Madelaine , Sinclair Keaton
Published: April 2023

Graduate students are vital to the creation of research and innovation in Canada. The National Graduate Student Finance Survey was launched in 2021 by the Ottawa Science Policy Network to investigate the financial realities of Canadian graduate students. Closing in April 2022, the survey received 1305 responses from graduate students representing various geographical locations, years of study, fields of education, and demographic backgrounds. The results capture a snapshot into graduate student finances, including an in-depth analysis of stipends, scholarships, debt, tuition, and living expenses. In its entirety, we found that the majority of graduate students are facing serious financial concerns. This is largely due to stagnant funding for students both from federal and provincial granting agencies and from within their institutions. This reality is even worse for international students, members of historically underrepresented communities, and those with dependents, all of whom experience additional challenges that impact their financial security. Based on our findings, we propose several recommendations to the Tri-Council agencies (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, Social Science and Humanities Research Council, and Canadian Institute for Health Research) and academic institutions to strengthen graduate student finances and help sustain the future of research in Canada.
Gravitational lensing by using the 0th order of affine perturbation series of the deflection angle of a ray near a photon sphere
Authors: Tsukamoto Naoki
Published: April 2023

The 0th order of affine perturbation series of the deflection angle of a ray near a photon sphere is more accurate than a deflection angle in a strong deflection limit, which is used often, because the later has hidden error terms. We investigate gravitational lensing by using 0th order affine perturbation series of the deflection angle in a general asymptotically-flat, static, and spherical symmetric spacetime with the photon sphere. We apply our formula to Schwarzschild black hole, Reissner–Nordström black hole, and Ellis–Bronnikov wormhole spacetimes as examples. By comparing observables by using the deflection angles, we show that we can ignore the effect of the hidden error terms in the the deflection angle in the strong deflection limit on the observables in a usual lens configuration with the photon sphere since the hidden error terms are tiny. On the other hand, in a retro lensing configuration, the deflection angle in the strong-deflection-limit analysis have error of several percent and the 0th order of affine perturbation series of the deflection angle has almost half of the error. Thus, in the retro lensing configuration, we should use the 0th order of affine perturbation series of the deflection angle rather than the deflection angle in the strong-deflection-limit analysis. The 0th order of affine perturbation series of the deflection angle can give a brighter magnification by a dozen percent than the one by using the deflection angle in the strong-deflection-limit analysis.
Spontaneous scalarization in proto-neutron stars
Authors: Rahimi Fahimeh , Rezaei Zeinab
Published: April 2023

Proto-neutron stars are born when a highly evolved and massive star collapses under gravity. In this paper, we investigate the spontaneous scalarization in proto-neutron stars. Based on the scalar tensor theory of gravity as well as the physical conditions in proto-neutron star, we examine the structure of proto-neutron star. To describe the fluid in proto-neutron star, we utilize SU(2) chiral sigma model and the finite temperature extension of the Brueckner–Bethe–Goldstone quantum many-body theory in the Brueckner–Hartree–Fock approximation. Here, we apply the equation of state of proto-neutron stars considering different cases i.e. hot pure neutron matter and hot $$\beta $$
β
-stable neutron star matter without neutrino trapping as well as with neutrino trapping. The effects of temperature and entropy of proto-neutron stars on the star structure are also studied. Our results confirm that the spontaneous scalarization is affected by different physical conditions in proto-neutron stars.
Horizons of charged dilatonic (anti-)de sitter black holes
Authors: Benakli Karim
Published: April 2023

We summarize our results on the presence and location of horizons in charged black hole solutions of Einstein–Maxwell-dilaton theory with nontrivial dilaton potentials, asymptotically flat or (anti-)de Sitter, as function of the black hole parameters mass, charge and dilaton coupling strength. We observe that there is a value of latter which separates two regions, one where the black hole is Reissner–Nordström-like from a region where it is Schwarzschild-like. We find that for de Sitter and small nonvanishing of the dilaton coupling parameter, the extremal case is not reached by the solution. We also discuss the attractive or repulsive nature of the leading long distance interaction between two such black holes, or a test particle and one black hole, from a worldline effective field theory point of view.
A new viable mass region of dark matter and dirac neutrino mass generation in a scotogenic extension of SM
Authors: Hazarika Nilavjyoti , Bora Kalpana
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose a scotogenic extension of the Standard Model (SM) which can provide a scalar dark matter (DM) candidate in the new, theoretically previously unaddressed, intermediate region ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV) and also generate light Dirac neutrino masses. In this framework, the SM is extended by three gauge singlet fermions, two singlet scalar fields and one additional scalar doublet along with a continuous global symmetry [Formula: see text] and discrete symmetries [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. These additional symmetries prevent the singlet fermions from obtaining Majorana mass terms along with providing the stability to the DM candidate. It is known that in the case of the scalar singlet DM model, the only region which is not yet excluded is a narrow region close to the Higgs resonance [Formula: see text] — others ruled out from different experimental and theoretical bounds. In the case of the inert doublet model, the mass region ([Formula: see text]–80[Formula: see text]GeV) and the high-mass region (heavier than 550[Formula: see text]GeV) are allowed. This motivates us to explore a parameter range in the intermediate-mass region [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV, which we do in a scotogenic extension of SM with a scalar doublet and scalar singlets. The DM in our model is a mixture of singlet and doublet scalars, in the freeze-out scenario. We constrain the allowed parameter space of the model using the Planck bound on present DM relic abundance, neutrino mass and the latest bound on spin-independent DM-nucleon scattering cross-section from the XENON1T experiment. Further, we constrain the DM parameters from the indirect detection bounds arising from the global analysis of the Fermi-LAT observations of dwarf spheroidal satellite (dSphs) galaxies, Higgs invisible decay and Electroweak Precision Test (EWPT) as well. We find that our model findings may provide a viable DM candidate satisfying all the constraints on DM parameters in the new, previously unexplored mass range ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV). This new window for the DM candidate could be searched in future experiments along with an explanation of the Dirac mass of neutrinos since so far there is no strong evidence in support of the Majorana nature of neutrino mass.
Fission within dinuclear system approach
Authors: Paşca H. , Andreev A. V. , Adamian G. G. , Antonenko N. V.
Published: April 2023

The improved scission-point statistical model based on the dinuclear system approach is employed to describe spontaneous fission, electromagnetic-, neutron-, charged-particle- and heavy-ion-induced fission of even–even pre-actinides, actinides and superheavy nuclei and to analyze the correlations between various observables. The key element of the model is the calculation of potential energy surfaces. The evolution of fission observables with increasing excitation energy is shown to be related with the widening and migration of the minima in the potential energy surface. Conservation of asymmetric shapes of mass and charge distributions of the fission fragments at high enough excitation energies of fissioning nuclei Hg, Pb, Rn, Ra, Th, U, Cf, Fm and No is predicted. At some critical excitation energy, the saturation of the symmetric component of charge and mass yields is demonstrated. For fissioning [Formula: see text]Hg, [Formula: see text]Fm and [Formula: see text]No, transitions from two-peaked to single-peaked mass distributions are predicted. The origin of the transition between asymmetric and symmetric fission modes with variations of neutron number and excitation energy is explored. For [Formula: see text]Hg(i.f.), [Formula: see text]Hg(i.f.), [Formula: see text]Fm(i.f.), [Formula: see text]Fm([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and [Formula: see text]Fm(s.f.), the unexpected difference (symmetric or asymmetric) between the shapes of charge and mass distributions is predicted for the first time. The dependence of the neutron excess ratio of fission fragments on the fragment charge number is studied. A method is suggested for experimental verification of the multi-chance fission assumption. A possible explanation of the anomaly in charge yield of Mo/Sn fragments in the fission reaction [Formula: see text]U([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) at low excitation energies found by [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] coincidence spectroscopy is presented.
A USER-FRIENDLY TOOL TO COMPUTE INFECTION PROBABILITY OF SARS-COV-2 INDOOR: THE USER GUIDE AND ITS APPLICATION IN MEDICAL PRACTICE
Authors: SANTORO BENEDETTA , FILON FRANCESCA LARESE , MILOTTI EDOARDO
Published: April 2023

After some initial hesitancy at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the academic community agreed that the infection process is mostly airborne and generally associated with closed environments. Therefore, assessing the indoor infection probability is mandatory to contain the spread of the disease, especially in those environments, like school classrooms, hospital wards or public transportation, with higher risk of overcrowding. For this reason, we developed a software tool in Python to compute infection probability and determine those mechanisms that contribute to reduce its diffusion in closed settings. In this paper, we will briefly illustrate the model we used and focus our attention on the description of the main features of the software and give some examples of how it can be used in clinical practice to predict the spread of the disease in the rooms of a generic ward, optimize room occupancy or drive healthcare workers activity schedule. Finally, some limitations and further implementations of our work will be reported.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PERSONALIZE CHOICE OF HERNIA MESHES USED FOR INGUINAL HERNIA OPERATIONS
Authors: KIRILOVA-DONEVA MIGLENA , PASHKOULEVA DESSISLAVA
Published: April 2023

The abdominal hernias become more prevalent with age. The objective of this study was to investigate the choice of the proper brand of hernia mesh according to the age of the patients. Seventy-eight samples of fascia harvested from 19 fresh cadavers were subjected to uniaxial tension tests and divided into four groups according to age: Group A (up to 60 years), Group B (61–70 years), Group C (71–80 years) and Group D (81–90 years). Median stress–stretch ratio curves with respect to age and direction of loading were obtained. The elastic modulus of samples and the level of orthotropy (the ratio between tensile stress in the longitudinal and the transversal direction) were calculated at 5% strain. Uniaxial tensile tests were performed also using five standard meshes (Microval, Parietex Composite, Surgimesh, Surgipro, TecnoMesh) and five lightweight meshes (Optilene, Parietex, TiO2Mesh, Ultrapro, Vypro II). The elastic modulus and level of orthotropy at 5% strain were calculated. The results of the study showed that Parietex Composite, Microval and Vypro II are recommended for 71–80 years patients, while Parietex Light is recommended for patients up to 60 years.
TUNING AND VALIDATION OF THE NEW RADCALC 3D MONTE CARLO BASED PRE-TREATMENT PLAN VERIFICATION TOOL
Authors: GIADA SCENI , ANDREA BOTTI , MATTEO ORLANDI , DANIELE LAMBERTINI , DOMENICO FINOCCHIARO , ADRIANA BARANI , VALENTINA BERTOLINI , VALERIA TROJANI , ROBERTO SGHEDONI , MAURO IORI
Published: April 2023

Verification procedures for patient-specific quality assurance (QA) in advanced radiotherapy are laborious and time-consuming. Moreover, it has been shown that these procedures cannot detect some inaccuracies for some particular complex cases due to tissue inhomogeneity and highly modulated plans. Secondary dose calculation verification of radiotherapy plans is an important aspect in patient-specific QA. A suitably optimized software, RadCalc equipped with 3D Monte Carlo Module (MC), was used to dosimetrically verify radiotherapy treatment plans where the measured dose distributions can be inaccurate due to the TPS dose calculation algorithm and/or treatment unit delivery uncertainties. MC Models were built using specific commissioning measurements and then the Additional Radiation to Light Field Offset parameter (Dosimetric Leaf Gap parameter) was tuned to achieve the best dose comparison agreement with phantom patient-specific QA measurements. The results showed a good agreement between the TPS and the simulations. RadCalc MC also allows to better estimate the plan doses in lung cancer patients and to detect the presence of possible inaccuracies due to tissue inhomogeneity, which is not estimable with a homogeneous phantoms.
Sustainable Development Evaluation of Cultural and Creative Industries Using a Neutrosophic-Based Dematel–Topsis Approach
Authors: Chang Chia-Chi , Pai Chun-Jui , Lo Huai-Wei
Published: April 2023

Nowadays, national governments and international organizations are increasingly interested in the sustainable development of the cultural and creative industries through the integration of culture, art, science, and education and their influence on local economic and cultural development and promotion. However, to the best of our knowledge, only few studies have proposed a comprehensive framework based on the multi-criteria decision-making concept for evaluating the sustainable development of such industries. The main purpose of this paper is to determine which criteria are important for sustainable development, how these criteria interact, and how the sustainability performance of the evaluated subjects can be measured. Four sustainability perspectives are incorporated into the framework, economic, social, environmental, and governmental institutional, and 17 evaluation criteria. In the methodology, the neutrosophic decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (N-DEMATEL) method is first used to identify the influential relationships between the sustainability criteria. Then, a modified technique for order priority by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method is used to calculate the performance of the sustainable cultural and creative industries. Neutrosophic fuzzy logic is applied to reflect the ambiguity of the expert evaluations, with the three parameters of truth, falsity, and indeterminacy incorporated to obtain more potential uncertainty information for neutrosophic decision support. The validity and practicality of the proposed model are demonstrated through a real-world example for the National Museum of Natural Science located in Central Taiwan. The results show that local government involvement, policy promotion and marketing, and the promotion of concept of sustainability are the most influential criteria for sustainability in the cultural and creative industries. The research findings can be used to guide the long-term development of the cultural and creative industries for industry and government and the method can be adapted for other performance evaluation issues. Government agencies can use the model to encourage the development of the cultural and creative industries through financial support, promotion, and partnerships with other agencies using its resources and allocation capabilities.
Symmetry and conservation laws of the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger-type equation
Authors: Serikbayev Nurzhan , Saparbekova Akbota
Published: April 2023

In this work, we study the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger-type equation that is related to many physical phenomena in nonlinear optical fibers and water waves. Some properties of the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger-type equation are considered. We determine the infinitesimal generators, an optimal system and a commutator table of the Lie algebra by using Lie symmetry analysis. Also the conservation laws of the equation are obtained using the new conservation theorem proposed by Ibragimov.
Spacetime admitting semiconformal curvature tensor in f(ℛ) modify gravity
Authors: Pundeer Naeem Ahmad , Rahaman Farook , Ali Musavvir , Shenawy Sameh
Published: April 2023

The primary goal of this paper is to examine spacetimes admitting semiconformal curvature tensor in [Formula: see text] modify gravity. The semiconformal flatness of general spacetime and spacetime in [Formula: see text] gravity with perfect fluid, has been analyzed. For this consideration, we generate the forms of isotropic pressure [Formula: see text] and energy density [Formula: see text]. After that, a few energy conditions are taken into account. Finally, we study the divergence-free semiconformal curvature tensor in [Formula: see text] gravity in presence of perfect fluid. We emphasize that for recurrent or bi-recurrent energy–momentum tensor, Ricci tensor of this spacetime is semi-symmetric and consequently, the resulting spacetimes either accomplish inflation or possess fixed isotropic pressure and energy density.
Modulo d extension of parity results in Rogers–Ramanujan–Gordon type overpartition identities
Authors: Kurşungöz Kağan , Zadehdabbagh Mohammad
Published: April 2023

Sang, Shi and Yee, in 2020, found overpartition analogs of Andrews’ results involving parity in Rogers–Ramanujan–Gordon identities. Their result partially answered an open question of Andrews’. The open question was to involve parity in overpartition identities. We extend Sang, Shi and Yee’s work to arbitrary moduli, and also provide a missing case in their identities. We also unify proofs of Rogers–Ramanujan–Gordon identities for overpartitions due to Lovejoy and Chen et al.; Sang, Shi and Yee’s results; and ours. Although verification type proofs are given for brevity, a construction of series as solutions of functional equations between partition generating functions is sketched.
An octic diophantine equation and related families of elliptic curves
Authors: Choudhry Ajai , Shamsi Zargar Arman
Published: April 2023

We obtain two parametric solutions of the diophantine equation [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is the octic form defined by [Formula: see text]. These parametric solutions yield infinitely many examples of two equiareal triangles whose sides are perfect squares of integers. Further, each of the two parametric solutions leads to a family of elliptic curves of rank [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text]. We study one of the two families in some detail and determine a set of five free generators for the family.
On k-measures and Durfee squares of partitions
Authors: Binner Damanvir Singh
Published: April 2023

Recently, Andrews, Bhattacharjee and Dastidar introduced the concept of [Formula: see text]-measure of an integer partition, and proved a surprising identity that the number of partitions of [Formula: see text] which have [Formula: see text]-measure [Formula: see text] is equal to the number of partitions of [Formula: see text] with a Durfee square of side [Formula: see text]. The authors asked for a bijective proof of this result and also suggested a further exploration of the properties of the number of partitions of [Formula: see text] which have [Formula: see text]-measure [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we perform these tasks. That is, we obtain a short combinatorial proof of the result of Andrews, Bhattacharjee and Dastidar, and using this proof, we obtain a natural generalization for [Formula: see text]-measures.
Optimal Backstepping Flight Controller Design Based a New Compact Gravitational Search Algorithm for Hexarotor Attitude Stabilization
Authors: Mounir Yazid , Hakim Bouadi , Nacir Hebablia , Nabil Hamdadou
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a hexarotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) flight dynamics is derived and its control system is designed. A complete mathematical model of the UAV is obtained using Newton–Euler formulation and it is used for simulation. However, a reduced model is derived for the control design purpose which is based on the backstepping approach for hexarotor attitude stabilization and altitude trajectory tracking. The main contribution of this paper consists of the introduction of a new compact Gravitational Search Algorithm (cGSA) and its application for improving the backstepping controller performances in terms of tracking errors. Indeed, using the compact optimization paradigm enhances the performances of classical Population-based Algorithms (PBAs). Moreover, the introduced cGSA is applied to compute the optimal gains of the considered controller. In addition, the cGSA is compared with two compact optimization algorithms that are compact Particle Swarm Optimization (cPSO) and compact Teaching Learning-Based Optimization (cTLBO). The proposed algorithm shows encouraging results.
Nanoparticles Methods for Hydrophobic Drugs — A Novel Approach: Graphical Abstract
Authors: Thakur Raneev , Sharma Abhishek , Arora Vimal
Published: April 2023

The current scenario shifts the advancement of technology toward nanotechnology as well as nanoparticles (NPs). Both are extensively used in pharmaceutical drug delivery also. NPs play a key role in the encapsulation of hydrophobic as well as hydrophilic drugs into the polymeric shells which leads to an increase in the solubility, absorption, encapsulation, and drug loading capacity of the drugs. The major limitations of hydrophobic drugs are solubility issues which hindered the drug’s bioavailability. These limitations can be overcome by polymeric NPs. Both subtypes of polymeric NPs, i.e., nanosphere and nanocapsules are also for the encapsulation of hydrophobic drugs. Our graphical review focused on hydrophobic drug encapsulation through polymeric NP formulation only via two methods, i.e., nanoprecipitation as well as solvent evaporation methods. Both methods are extensively used for hydrophobic drugs and also hold unique properties. The nanoprecipitation method is a single-step method based upon the nucleation process, whereas the solvent evaporation method is a two-step emulsification method. The present graphical review summarized the available remedies through NPs to increase the solubility of hydrophobic drugs.
On the Implications of COVID-19 Pandemic-Induced "Work From Home" in the Software Industry
Authors: Kamthan Pankaj , Shahmir Nazlie
Published: April 2023

Work From Home (WFH) became the only viable option for software engineers to continue working during the COVID-19 pandemic if only because they were not deemed to be "essential workers". This note explores what the future might hold for different types of WFH from the perspectives of employers as well as employees.
Reporting on a Decade of Promoting Software Engineering for Systems-of-Systems and Software Ecosystems
Authors: Santos Rodrigo , Constantinou Eleni , Antonino Pablo , Bosch Jan
Published: April 2023

Systems-of-systems (SoS) have become increasingly complex and frequently used in highly distributed, dynamic, and open environments. SoS refer to evolving software systems in which constituent systems (themselves systems in their own right) cooperatively work to fulfill specific, complex missions, facing Software Engineering researchers and practitioners with substantial challenges. Software ecosystems (SECO) have also become an important research topic, addressing social issues along with technical aspects of software development. SoS and SECO are closely related and naturally distributed in development teams. In both fields, distributed resources aim at reducing cost and reaching new Information Technology markets. Software Engineering-related problems and challenges are amplified and become more critical when SoS and SECO are analyzed together. The 10th IEEE/ACM International Workshop on Software Engineering for Systems-of-Systems and Software Ecosystems (SESoS 2022) celebrates a decade of promoting a forum to exchange ideas and experiences, analyze research and development issues, discuss promising solutions, and propose theoretical foundations for the development and evolution of complex software-intensive systems, inspiring visions for the future of Software Engineering for SoS and SECO, as well as paving the way for a more structured community effort. Based on the community feedback, topics of interest should address systems thinking and complexity of those types of systems. As such, the SESoS community is reflecting on how the different dimensions of those types of systems - technological, organizational, and social - should be addressed in research and practice.