bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A variational quantum perceptron with Grover’s algorithm for efficient classification
Authors: Innan Nouhaila , Bennai Mohamed
Published: April 2024

This study introduces the Quantum Variational Perceptron with Grover’s algorithm (QVP-G), an innovative Quantum machine Learning (QML) model significantly enhancing binary classification tasks’ capabilities. The study goes beyond theoretical constructs, employing empirical evaluations of QVP-G on the well-established Iris and more complex breast cancer datasets. This dual-dataset approach highlights the model’s adaptability and effectiveness in varied contexts. Our experimental findings reveal the exceptional accuracy of QVP-G, achieving a remarkable 99% success rate. This superior performance is owed mainly to integrating Grover’s algorithm, a cornerstone in Quantum Computing (QC), which substantially increases the probability of accurately determining the correct classification hyperplane. Beyond academic interest, our research positions QVP-G as a powerful tool with substantial practical applications. Its utility ranges from enhancing fraud detection and improving spam filtering to expediting drug discovery and contributing to advances in physics research. This study marks a significant advancement in QML, reinforcing the bridge between QC and machine learning.
Vibration control mechanisms of plate structures by 1D acoustic black hole dynamic vibration absorber
Authors: Wen Huabing , Guo Xin , Ma Ran , Guo Junhua , Shi Ziqiang , Ye Linchang
Published: April 2024

Due to the advantages of simple structure and effective vibration suppressions, acoustic black hole (ABH) structures attract many scholars’s attention. In this paper, by capitalizing phenomenon of acoustic black hole (ABH), an ABH-featured dynamic vibration absorber (1D-ABH-DVA) is proposed for vibration suppressions, and three improved cases are proposed based on the 1D-ABH-DVA. To achieve broadband vibration suppression, three optimization cases of distribution are designed. Using a plate as primary structure, both numerical simulations and experiments show that multiple resonances of the plate can be significantly reduced by 1D-ABH-DVA. Three types of vibration reduction mechanisms are revealed, manifesting and dominating by different physical process, i.e. peak splitting effect, damping enhancement effect and their combination. The numerical simulations show that an evenly distribution pattern can get better vibration suppressions. This work provides ideas for further application of ABHs in vibration and noise reduction, and has significant engineering significance.
On the relative abundances of Cavansite and Pentagonite
Authors: Pujari Bhalchandra S , Gehlot Sagar , Arjunwadkar Mihir , Kanhere Dilip G , Duraiswami Raymond A
Published: April 2024

Cavansite is a visually stunning blue vanadosilicate mineral with limited occurrences worldwide, whereas Pentagonite is a closely related dimorph with similar physical and chemical properties, yet is extremely rare compared to Cavansite. The reasons behind Pentagonite’s exceptional rarity remain largely unknown. In this study, (a) density functional theory (DFT) is utilized to investigate the electronic structures of Cavansite and Pentagonite at ground state and finite pressures; (b) a two-state Boltzmann probability model is then employed to construct a comprehensive phase diagram that reveals the abundance of each species across a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions; and (c) dehydration characteristics of these two minerals are explored. The present analysis reveals the key factors that contribute to the relative scarcity of Pentagonite, including differences in structural arrangement and electronic configurations between the two minerals. Specifically, it shows that (a) because of the peculiar arrangements of SiO4 polyhedra, Cavansite forms a compact structure (about 2.7% less in volume) resulting in lower energy; (b) at a temperature of about 650K only about 1% Pentagonite can form; (c) vanadium induces a highly localized state in both of these otherwise large-band-gap insulators resulting in an extremely weak magnetic phase that is unlikely to be observed at any reasonable finite temperature; and (d) water molecules are loosely bound inside the microporous crystals of Cavansite and Pentagonite, suggesting potential applications of these minerals in various technological fields.
Radiatively tamed divertor thermal loading in resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP)-driven, ELM-crash-suppressed plasmas
Authors: In Yongkyoon , Lee H.H. , Kim K. , Loarte A. , Choi I.H. , Heo J.Y. , Han Y.S. , Choe Wonho , Hwang J. , Shin H.
Published: April 2024

Edge-localized-modes (ELMs) suppression by non-axisymmetric resonant-magnetic-perturbation (RMP) provides the way to reach high performance fusion plasmas without a threatening level of transient heat fluxes to the walls of fusion devices. The application of RMP, however, strongly modifies the heat flux pattern onto in-vessel components in contact with the plasma (especially the divertor) leading to local ‘hot spots’. Radiative dissipation by partially ionized species (impurities and deuterium) lowers the heat flux peaks on the walls but has been poorly compatible with such RMP-driven, ELM-crash-suppression. Here, we show how KSTAR has radiatively tamed divertor thermal loading down to more than a factor of 7 in the off-separatrix region without losing ELM-crash-suppression using ITER-like, three-row, RMP configurations, demonstrating its sustainment even in a partially detached plasma in the outer strike point, as required for ITER.
Turbulent image deblurring using a deblurred blur kernel
Authors: Duan Lizhen , Zhong Libo , Zhang Jianlin
Published: April 2024

In the context of addressing a noisy turbulence-degraded image, it is common to use a denoising low-pass filter before implementing a deblurring algorithm. However, this filter not only suppresses noise but also induces a certain degree of blur into the degraded image. This blur effect causes a blurred estimate of the true blur kernel and ultimately leads to a distorted estimate of the latent clear image. To tackle this issue, this paper presents an innovative single-image deblurring method. It integrates a dedicated blur kernel deblurring step to mitigate the effects of the denoising filter. The L
0 norm and L
2 norm serve as the respective constraints for latent clear image and blur kernel. Experimental results on both synthetic and real-world turbulence-degraded images demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method.
The effects of inner electrode shape on the performance of dielectric barrier discharge reactor for oxidative removal of NO and SO2
Authors: CAI 蔡 Yunkai 云凯 , HUANG 黄 Bingfeng 兵锋 , DONG 董 Fei 飞 , ZHU 祝 Neng 能
Published: April 2024

Seagoing vessels are responsible for more than 90% of global freight traffic, but meanwhile, emission pollutants (NO
x
and SO
x
) of seagoing vessels also cause serious air pollution. Nonthermal plasma (NTP) combined with wet scrubbing technology is considered to be a promising technology. In order to improve the oxidation efficiency and energy efficiency of the NTP reactor, the screw and rod inner electrodes of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor were investigated. To analyze the mechanism, the optical emission spectra (OES) of NTP were measured and numerical calculation was applied. The experiment results show that the NO oxidation removal efficiency of screw electrode is lower than that of rod electrode. However, the SO2 removal efficiency of screw electrode is higher. According to the OES experiment and numerical calculation, the electric field intensity of the screw electrode surface is much higher than that of the rod electrode surface, and it is easier to generate N radicals to form NO. For the same energy density condition, the OH radical generation efficiency of the screw electrode reactor is similar to that of the rod electrode, but the gas temperature in the discharge gap is higher. Therefore, the SO2 oxidation efficiency of the thread electrode is higher. This study provides guidance for the optimization of oxidation efficiency and energy consumption of DBD reactor.
Introducing Environmental Research: Energy—advancing interdisciplinary understanding of energy systems during decarbonization
Authors: Grubert Emily
Published: April 2024

This issue formally launches Environmental Research: Energy, a new open-access interdisciplinary journal focused on energy systems as we grapple with the challenges and opportunities of decarbonization and advancing global social justice. As a society-owned journal in IOP’s Environmental Research portfolio, Environmental Research: Energy joins a publishing tradition focused on accessibility, fairness, and excellence, with a crucial topical focus on energy systems. Supported by an interdisciplinary and global editorial board, Environmental Research: Energy welcomes and is committed to creating conditions conducive to multi- and interdisciplinary research, particularly given the deep connections across society, technology, and culture that characterize energy systems. Our inaugural issue highlights the journal’s interest in both supply and demand side views of energy systems both adapting to and mitigating climate change across the world, and upcoming focus issues broaden and deepen our emphasis on multidisciplinary investigations into these crucial global issues. Thank you for your support!
Behavior of large eigenvalues for the two-photon asymmetric quantum Rabi model
Authors: Boutet de Monvel A. , Charif M. , Zielinski L.
Published: April 2024

The asymptotic behavior of large eigenvalues is studied for the two-photon quantum Rabi model with a finite bias. It is proved that the spectrum of this Hamiltonian model consists of two eigenvalue sequences

{

E
n
+

}

n
=
0

∞

\lbrace E_n^+\rbrace _{n=0}^{\infty }

,

{

E
n
−

}

n
=
0

∞

\lbrace E_n^-\rbrace _{n=0}^{\infty }

, and their large 

n
n

asymptotic behavior with error term

O
⁡
(

n

−
1

/

2

)

\operatorname {O}(n^{-1/2})

is described. The principal tool is the method of near-similarity of operators introduced by G. V. Rozenblum and developed in works of J. Janas, S. Naboko, and E. A. Yanovich (Tur).
Estimates of Green matrix entries of selfadjoint unbounded block Jacobi matrices
Authors: Naboko S. , Simonov S.
Published: April 2024

In a wide class of block Jacobi matrices, the norms of Green matrix (resolvent) entries are estimated. This estimate depends on the rate of growth of the norms of the off-diagonal entries and on the distance from the spectral parameter to the essential spectrum if the latter is nonempty. The sharpness of this estimate is shown by an example.
To Stage or Not to Stage? Direct-to-Implant Versus Staged Reconstruction for Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Siotos Charalampos , Harmon Kelly , Rezania Nikki , Shenaq Deana
Published: April 2024

Goals/Purpose

Implant-based breast reconstruction remains the common method of reconstruction after mastectomy in the US. An increasing number of centers are now offering direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction, avoiding staged reconstructions with tissue expander placement first. However, little is known regarding the need for revisions following DTI. In this study we sought to investigate short- and long-term complications and revisions following DTI versus staged reconstruction.

Methods/Technique

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent bilateral nipple-sparing-mastectomies seeking implant-based breast reconstruction between September 2016 to September 2021. We extracted demographic and clinical information for the selected patients. Patients were divided in two cohorts: the DTI cohort, and the staged cohort. Baseline differences among the two groups were assessed by performing non-parametric statistical tests. Number of complications and revisions were assessed by employing chi-square. Logistic regression was then employed to adjust for possible confounders.

Results/Complications

During the study period, we identified 143 patients, 69 in the DTI cohort and 74 in the staged cohort. Patients in the staged cohort were more likely to have higher BMI (mean 26 kg/m2 versus 24.3 kg/m2 in the DTI cohort) and have undergone prior radiotherapy than those in the DTI cohort. No differences based on age, race/ethnicity or comorbidities were present. According to our analysis and within the follow up period time of average 21 months, the two cohorts had similar rates of minor and major short- and long-term surgical complications. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the DTI group had a significantly higher rate of overall revisions (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.23-6.07, p-value 0.01) and specifically revisions with implant exchange (0R 3.06, 95% CI 1.06-8.85, p-value 0.03). Most common reason for reason was asymmetry or contour deformity. However, the DTI cohort had significantly lower charges associated with their care during the follow up period (d=-100,178.14 US dollars, p-value=0.001). Complications rates were similar among the two groups.

Conclusion

An increasing number of patients are now interested in DTI breast reconstruction. According to the results of our study, DTI patients may have increased number of revisions but share similar rates of complications. DTI breast reconstruction is also associated with lower charges, even after accounting for the additional necessary revision procedures. Careful selection of patients for DTI and appropriate education on the need for revisions in the future is paramount.
Use of in silico approaches, synthesis and profiling of Pan-filovirus GP-1,2 preprotein specific antibodies
Authors: Wiśniewski Maciej , Babirye Peace , Musubika Carol , Papakonstantinou Eleni , Kirimunda Samuel , Łaźniewski Michal , Szczepińska Teresa , Joloba Moses L , Eliopoulos Elias , Bongcam-Rudloff Erik , Vlachakis Dimitrios , Kumar Halder Anup , Plewczyński Dariusz , Wayengera Misaki
Published: April 2024

Intermolecular interactions of protein–protein complexes play a principal role in the process of discovering new substances used in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Among such complexes of proteins, we have to mention antibodies; they interact with specific antigens of two genera of single-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the family Filoviridae—Ebolavirus and Marburgvirus; both cause rare but fatal viral hemorrhagic fever in Africa, with pandemic potential. In this research, we conduct studies aimed at the design and evaluation of antibodies targeting the filovirus glycoprotein precursor GP-1,2 to develop potential targets for the pan-filovirus easy-to-use rapid diagnostic tests. The in silico research using the available 3D structure of the natural antibody–antigen complex was carried out to determine the stability of individual protein segments in the process of its formation and maintenance. The computed free binding energy of the complex and its decomposition for all amino acids allowed us to define the residues that play an essential role in the structure and indicated the spots where potential antibodies can be improved. Following that, the study involved targeting six epitopes of the filovirus GP1,2 with two polyclonal antibodies (pABs) and 14 monoclonal antibodies (mABs). The evaluation conducted using Enzyme Immunoassays tested 62 different sandwich combinations of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), identifying 10 combinations that successfully captured the recombinant GP1,2 (rGP). Among these combinations, the sandwich option (3G2G12* — (rGP) — 2D8F11) exhibited the highest propensity for capturing the rGP antigen.
Hepatic arterial infusion pump chemotherapy combined with systemic chemotherapy for borderline resectable and unresectable colorectal liver metastases: phase II feasibility study
Authors: Krul Myrtle F , Kok Niels F M , Osmani Harun , Buisman Florian E , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Grunhagen Dirk J , Verhoef Cornelis , Mostert Bianca , Snaebjornsson Petur , Westerink Bram , Klompenhouwer Elisabeth G , Donswijk Maarten L , Ruers Theo J M , Douma Joeri A J , van Blijderveen Nico , Kingham T Peter , D’Angelica Michael I , Kemeny Nancy E , Bolhuis Karen , Buffart Tineke E , Kuhlmann Koert F D
Published: April 2024

Background

Hepatic arterial infusion pump chemotherapy combined with systemic chemotherapy (HAIP-SYS) for liver-only colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs) has shown promising results but has not been adopted worldwide. This study evaluated the feasibility of HAIP-SYS in the Netherlands.

Methods

This was a single-arm phase II study of patients with CRLMs who received HAIP-SYS consisting of floxuridine with concomitant systemic FOLFOX or FOLFIRI. Main inclusion and exclusion criteria were borderline resectable or unresectable liver-only metastases, suitable arterial anatomy and no previous local treatment. Patients underwent laparotomy for pump implantation and primary tumour resection if in situ. Primary end point was feasibility, defined as ≥70% of patients completing two cycles of HAIP-SYS. Sample size calculations led to 31 patients. Secondary outcomes included safety and tumour response.

Results

Thirty-one patients with median 13 CRLMs (i.q.r. 6–23) were included. Twenty-eight patients (90%) received two HAIP-SYS cycles. Three patients did not get two cycles due to extrahepatic disease at pump placement, definitive pathology of a recto-sigmoidal squamous cell carcinoma, and progressive disease. Five patients experienced grade 3 surgical or pump device-related complications (16%) and 11 patients experienced grade ≥3 chemotherapy toxicity (38%). At first radiological evaluation, disease control rate was 83% (24/29 patients) and hepatic disease control rate 93% (27/29 patients). At 6 months, 19 patients (66%) had experienced grade ≥3 chemotherapy toxicity and the disease control rate was 79%.

Conclusion

HAIP-SYS for borderline resectable and unresectable CRLMs was feasible and safe in the Netherlands. This has led to a successive multicentre phase III randomized trial investigating oncological benefit (EUDRA-CT 2023–506194-35-00). Current trial registration number: clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04552093).
Antiretrovirals and Weight Change: Weighing the Evidence
Authors: Wohl David Alain , Koethe John R , Sax Paul E , McComsey Grace A , Kuritzkes Daniel R , Moyle Graeme , Kaplan Lee , van Wyk Jean , Campo Rafael E , Cohen Calvin
Published: April 2024

Body weight is influenced by an interplay of individual and environmental factors. In people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), weight is also influenced by disease status with loss accompanying disease progression that is reversed with effective antiretroviral therapy. Weight changes in comparative antiretroviral therapy trials differ by regimen, with greater gains observed with the integrase strand transfer inhibitors dolutegravir and bictegravir, particularly when coadministered with tenofovir alafenamide fumarate, compared with regimens that include agents such as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate that attenuate weight gain. We review weight changes in major randomized trials of preexposure prophylaxis and initial and switch HIV therapy, highlighting the challenges to assessing the role of antiretroviral therapy in weight change. This examination forms the basis for a model that questions assumptions regarding an association between integrase strand transfer inhibitors and tenofovir alafenamide fumarate and excessive weight gain and calls for more careful consideration of these data when making HIV treatment decisions.
Identification and classification of pulp calcifications in posterior teeth according to dental condition using digital panoramic radiography and cone beam CT
Authors: Gonçalves Poliana Santos , Candemil Amanda Pelegrin , Petean Igor Bassi Ferreira , Silva-Sousa Alice Correa , Pires Cassiano Ricardo Ferreira , Mazzi-Chaves Jardel Francisco , Sousa-Neto Manoel Damião , Gaêta-Araujo Hugo
Published: April 2024

Objective

To compare digital panoramic radiography (DPR) and cone beam CT (CBCT) in the detection and classification of pulp calcifications in posterior teeth in relation to tooth condition and its location.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty patients with simultaneous DPR and CBCT scans were selected from a dental image bank. For each posterior tooth, its condition was registered (healthy, restored, or decayed). The presence of calcifications was assessed and classified according to location (coronal or radicular) and type (total obliteration, partial obliteration, narrowing, and no calcification). Chi-square and McNemar tests were used to compare DPR and CBCT results, with a significance level of 5%. DPR diagnostic values were calculated using CBCT as reference.

Results

Decayed and restored teeth showed a significantly (P < .001) higher prevalence of pulp calcifications than healthy teeth in both imaging exams. There was a significant discrepancy between the imaging modalities in the identification of calcifications (P < .001), especially for radicular calcifications of maxillary teeth (DPR = 55.2%; CBCT = 30.9%). In the case of coronal calcifications, there was a greater discrepancy between CBCT and DPR in the mandibular teeth (10.7%) than in the maxillary teeth (7.7%). Overall, DPR presents higher sensitivity (0.855) than specificity (0.483) for pulp calcifications detection.

Conclusion

DPR considerably overestimates pulp calcifications in posterior teeth, as compared to CBCT. A higher prevalence of pulp calcifications is related to decayed and restored teeth.
Linking communities and health facilities to improve child health in low-resource settings: a systematic review
Authors: Iuliano Agnese , Burgess Rochelle Ann , Shittu Funmilayo , King Carina , Bakare Ayobami Adebayo , Valentine Paula , Haruna Ibrahim , Colbourn Tim
Published: April 2024

Community–facility linkage interventions are gaining popularity as a way to improve community health in low-income settings. Their aim is to create/strengthen a relationship between community members and local healthcare providers. Representatives from both groups can address health issues together, overcome trust problems, potentially leading to participants’ empowerment to be responsible for their own health. This can be achieved via different approaches. We conducted a systematic literature review to explore how this type of intervention has been implemented in rural and low or lower-middle-income countries, its various features and how/if it has helped to improve child health in these settings. Publications from three electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed and Embase) up to 03 February 2022 were screened, with 14 papers meeting the inclusion criteria (rural setting in low/lower-middle-income countries, presence of a community–facility linkage component, outcomes of interest related to under-5 children’s health, peer-reviewed articles containing original data written in English). We used Rosato’s integrated conceptual framework for community participation to assess the transformative and community-empowering capacities of the interventions, and realist principles to synthesize the outcomes. The results of this analysis highlight which conditions can lead to the success of this type of intervention: active inclusion of hard-to-reach groups, involvement of community members in implementation’s decisions, activities tailored to the actual needs of interventions’ contexts and usage of mixed methods for a comprehensive evaluation. These lessons informed the design of a community–facility linkage intervention and offer a framework to inform the development of monitoring and evaluation plans for future implementations.
An explicit spectral Fletcher–Reeves conjugate gradient method for bi-criteria optimization
Authors: Elboulqe Y , El Maghri M
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we propose a spectral Fletcher–Reeves conjugate gradient-like method for solving unconstrained bi-criteria minimization problems without using any technique of scalarization. We suggest an explicit formulae for computing a descent direction common to both criteria. The latter further verifies a sufficient descent property that does not depend on the line search nor on any convexity assumption. After proving the existence of a bi-criteria Armijo-type stepsize, global convergence of the proposed algorithm is established. Finally, some numerical results and comparisons with other methods are reported.
Sarcoidosis in first- and second-generation immigrants: a cohort study of all adults 18 years of age and older in Sweden
Authors: Wändell Per , Li Xinjun , Carlsson Axel C , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: April 2024

Background

There is a lack of studies on sarcoidosis among immigrants, which is of interest as there may be genetic and environmental characteristics affecting immigrants from certain countries. We aimed to study hazard ratios (HRs) of sarcoidosis in first- and second-generation immigrants, comparing them with native Swedes in the total adult Swedish population.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide study of individuals ≥18 y of age. Sarcoidosis was defined as at least two registered diagnoses in the National Patient Register between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2018. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate HRs with 99% confidence intervals (CIs) of first registration of sarcoidosis in first- and second-generation immigrants compared with native Swedes. The Cox regression models were stratified by sex and adjusted for age, comorbidities and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

In total, 6 175 251 were included in the first-generation study, with 12 617 cases of sarcoidosis, and 4 585 529 in the second-generation study, with 12 126 cases. The overall sarcoidosis risk was lower in foreign-born men (fully adjusted HR 0.63 [99% CI 0.57 to 0.69]) but not in foreign-born women (fully adjusted HR 0.98 [99% CI 0.90 to 1.06]). The overall risk was slightly lower in second-generation immigrants (HR 0.82 [99% CI 0.78 to 0.88]). Women from Asia exhibited a higher risk (HR 1.25 [99% CI 1.02 to 1.53)], while a potential trend was observed among women from Africa (HR 1.47 [99% CI 0.99 to 2.19]).

Conclusions

Sarcoidosis risk was lower in foreign-born men but not in women and also lower in second-generation immigrants.
Effects of Aloe vera on Burn Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Huang Yu-Ning , Chen Kun-Chuan , Wang Jen-Hung , Lin Yun-Kuan
Published: April 2024

Burn injuries cause severe pain, infection risks, psychological distress, financial burdens, and mortality, necessitating effective care. Aloe vera, a traditional burn remedy, shows wound-healing potential, but its analgesic effects and efficacy with varying burn severity are uncertain. This study aims to investigate A. vera’s effect on wound healing, pain management, and infection prevention in patients with burns. A systematic search on PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL was performed on October 9, 2023, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The risk of bias was examined using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (version 2), and the meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was wound-healing time, with secondary outcomes examining pain severity and wound infection. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess the quality of evidence for each outcome. Nine RCTs were included in the current study, of which 6 provided data on the primary outcome. Aloe vera significantly reduced mean wound-healing time compared to other topicals (mean difference [MD] −3.76 days; 95% CI, −5.69 to −1.84). Additionally, the meta-analysis of the secondary outcomes found no significant differences in pain reduction (MD −0.76 points; 95% CI, −1.53 to 0.01) and wound infection risk (risk ratio 1.10; 95% CI, 0.34-3.59) between A. vera and control groups. In conclusion, A. vera expedites wound healing in patients with second-degree burns without increased infection risk compared to other antimicrobial agents. The analgesic effects on burn injuries remain uncertain.
Shared struggles, divergent paths: a comparison of grassroots and professional feminist advocates’ communication for social change in Argentina and the United States
Authors: Wagner María Celeste
Published: April 2024

Contemporary activism media research, largely focused on digital media's technological and discursive aspects, often lacks comparative studies and tends to overlook institutional or cultural factors in communication for social change (CSC). This study addresses these gaps by examining advocates’ sensemaking and communication praxis in contexts shaped by different advocacy traditions and sociocultural understandings of inequality. Through an analysis of 52 semi-structured interviews with Argentine grassroots advocates and U.S. professional ones, this study reveals similar media assessments across cases yet with different intersectional emphases: class in Argentina and race in the United States. Cross-case divergencies emerge in advocates’ positionality toward institutions and in their representational strategies: While grassroots advocates act as pragmatic agents of change and adopt a flexible communication style described as a “pedagogy of patience,” professional ones act as epistemic experts who offer a feminist critique of journalistic objectivity. I reflect on how these findings attend overlooked factors in CSC.
Crosstalk between Rho of Plants GTPase signalling and plant hormones
Authors: Tian Haoyu , Lyu Ruohan , Yi Peishan
Published: April 2024

Rho of Plants (ROPs) constitute a plant-specific subset of small guanine nucleotide-binding proteins within the Cdc42/Rho/Rac family. These versatile proteins regulate diverse cellular processes, including cell growth, cell division, cell morphogenesis, organ development, and stress responses. In recent years, the dynamic cellular and subcellular behaviours orchestrated by ROPs have unveiled a notable connection to hormone-mediated organ development and physiological responses, thereby expanding our knowledge of the functions and regulatory mechanisms of this signalling pathway. This review delineates advancements in understanding the interplay between plant hormones and the ROP signalling cascade, focusing primarily on the connections with auxin and abscisic acid pathways, alongside preliminary discoveries in cytokinin, brassinosteroid, and salicylic acid responses. It endeavours to shed light on the intricate, coordinated mechanisms bridging cell- and tissue-level signals that underlie plant cell behaviour, organ development, and physiological processes, and highlights future research prospects and challenges in this rapidly developing field.
The trichome pattern diversity of Cardamine shares genetic mechanisms with Arabidopsis but differs in environmental drivers
Authors: Fuster-Pons Alberto , Murillo-Sánchez Alba , Méndez-Vigo Belén , Marcer Arnald , Pieper Bjorn , Torres-Pérez Rafael , Oliveros Juan Carlos , Tsiantis Miltos , Picó F Xavier , Alonso-Blanco Carlos
Published: April 2024

Natural variation in trichome pattern (amount and distribution) is prominent among populations of many angiosperms. However, the degree of parallelism in the genetic mechanisms underlying this diversity and its environmental drivers in different species remain unclear. To address these questions, we analyzed the genomic and environmental bases of leaf trichome pattern diversity in Cardamine hirsuta, a relative of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). We characterized 123 wild accessions for their genomic diversity, leaf trichome patterns at different temperatures, and environmental adjustments. Nucleotide diversities and biogeographical distribution models identified two major genetic lineages with distinct demographic and adaptive histories. Additionally, C. hirsuta showed substantial variation in trichome pattern and plasticity to temperature. Trichome amount in C. hirsuta correlated positively with spring precipitation but negatively with temperature, which is opposite to climatic patterns in A. thaliana. Contrastingly, genetic analysis of C. hirsuta glabrous accessions indicated that, like for A. thaliana, glabrousness is caused by null mutations in ChGLABRA1 (ChGL1). Phenotypic genome-wide association studies (GWAS) further identified a ChGL1 haplogroup associated with low trichome density and ChGL1 expression. Therefore, a ChGL1 series of null and partial loss-of-function alleles accounts for the parallel evolution of leaf trichome pattern in C. hirsuta and A. thaliana. Finally, GWAS also detected other candidate genes (e.g. ChETC3, ChCLE17) that might affect trichome pattern. Accordingly, the evolution of this trait in C. hirsuta and A. thaliana shows partially conserved genetic mechanisms but is likely involved in adaptation to different environments.
The Father’s Love: Collective Narcissism and Defensive Reactions to Allegations about Pope John Paul II in Polish Public Opinion
Authors: Golec de Zavala Agnieszka , Federico Christopher M
Published: April 2024

Recent allegations that Pope John Paul II turned a blind eye to clergy sexual abuse as archbishop and pope have ignited much controversy in Poland. In this study, we utilize data from an original representative survey of Polish adults to examine predictors of defensive political reactions to these allegations. We hypothesized that national and Catholic collective narcissism (an exaggerated belief in in-group greatness that requires consistent external validation) would predict defensive attitudes in the face of the allegation, and that nonnarcissistic in-group satisfaction with national and Polish identities would be less related to defensive attitudes. Using a variety of statistical approaches, we find support for these predictions among Polish Catholics.
The impact of open access on citations, Pageviews, and downloads: a scientometric analysis in Postgraduate Medical Journal
Authors: Yi Hang , Cao Yang , Leng Qihao , Wang Yan , Zhang Guochao , Mao Yousheng
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The influence of Open Access (OA) on the citation impact of scholarly articles remains a topic of considerable debate. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between OA publication and citation metrics, as well as article visibility, within the context of the Postgraduate Medical Journal (PMJ).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 373 articles published in PMJ between 2020 and 2021. Data on OA status, citations, page views, PDF downloads, and other relevant variables were extracted from Journal Citation Reports and PMJ's official website. Multivariable linear regression and other statistical analyses were used to assess the impact of OA on these metrics.

Results

OA articles (n = 78) demonstrated significantly higher citation counts, page views, and PDF downloads compared with subscription-based articles (n = 295). Specifically, OA articles showed a significant increase in citation frequency with a β coefficient of 25.08 and a 95% CI of 17.168–32.992 (P < .001). Similarly, OA status was independently associated with increases in page views [β = 288.636, 95%CI: 177.749–399.524, P < .001] and PDF downloads [β = 118.966, 95%CI: 86.357–151.575, P < .001]. Strong correlations among total citations, page views, and PDF downloads were observed in both OA and subscription articles.

Conclusion

The study highlights a significant and independent association of OA publishing with increased citation counts, page views, and PDF downloads in PMJ, suggesting that OA articles have broader reach and greater visibility. Further research, including randomized controlled studies across various journals, is needed to confirm these findings and explore the full impact of OA publishing.
U.S. Market Concentration and Import Competition
Authors: Amiti Mary , Heise Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Many studies have documented that the sales concentration of U.S. producers has risen in recent decades. In this article, we show that this increase was accompanied by more entry and growth of foreign competitors. Using confidential census data covering the universe of all firm sales in the U.S. manufacturing sector, we find that rising import competition increased concentration among U.S. firms by reallocating sales from smaller to larger U.S. firms and by causing firm exit. However, this increase in production concentration was counteracted by the expansion of foreign firms, which reduced domestic firms’ share of the U.S. market inclusive of foreign firms’ sales. We find that once the sales of foreign exporters are taken into account, U.S. market concentration in manufacturing was stable between 1992 and 2012.
Midpoint of sleep is associated with sleep quality in older adults with and without symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sauers Scott C , Toedebusch Cristina D , Richardson Rachel , Spira Adam P , Morris John C , Holtzman David M , Lucey Brendan P
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Disrupted sleep is common in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and may be a marker for AD risk. The timing of sleep affects sleep–wake activity and is also associated with AD, but little is known about links between sleep architecture and the midpoint of sleep in older adults. In this study, we tested if the midpoint of sleep is associated with different measures of sleep architecture, AD biomarkers, and cognitive status among older adults with and without symptomatic AD.

Methods

Participants (N = 243) with a mean age of 74 underwent standardized cognitive assessments, measurement of CSF AD biomarkers, and sleep monitoring via single-channel EEG, actigraphy, a home sleep apnea test, and self-reported sleep logs. The midpoint of sleep was defined by actigraphy.

Results

A later midpoint of sleep was associated with African-American race and greater night-to-night variability in the sleep midpoint. After adjusting for multiple potential confounding factors, a later sleep midpoint was associated with longer rapid-eye movement (REM) onset latency, decreased REM sleep time, more actigraphic awakenings at night, and higher < 2 Hz non-REM slow-wave activity.

Conclusions

Noninvasive in vivo markers of brain function, such as sleep, are needed to track both future risk of cognitive impairment and response to interventions in older adults at risk for AD. Sleep timing is associated with multiple other sleep measures and may affect their utility as markers of AD. The midpoint of sleep may be changed through behavioral intervention and should be taken into account when using sleep as a marker for AD risk.
Coordinated hydraulic traits influence the two phases of time to hydraulic failure in five temperate tree species differing in stomatal stringency
Authors: Waite Pierre-André , Kumar Manish , Link Roman M , Schuldt Bernhard
Published: April 2024

Worldwide, forests are increasingly exposed to extreme droughts causing tree mortality. Because of the complex nature of the mechanisms involved, various traits have been linked to tree drought responses with contrasting results. This may be due to species-specific strategies in regulating water potential, a process that unfolds in two distinct phases: a first phase until stomatal closure, and a second phase until reaching lethal xylem hydraulic thresholds. We conducted dry-down experiments with five broadleaved temperate tree species differing in their degree of isohydry to estimate the time to stomatal closure (tsc) and subsequent time to critical hydraulic failure (tcrit). We measured various traits linked to tree drought responses, such as the water potentials at turgor loss point (Ptlp), stomatal closure (Pgs90), and 12%, 50% and 88% loss of xylem hydraulic conductance (P12, P50, P88), hydraulic capacitance (C), minimum leaf conductance (gmin), hydroscape area (HSA) and hydraulic safety margins (HSM). We found that Pgs90 followed previously recorded patterns of isohydry and was associated with HSA. Species ranked from more to less isohydric in the sequence Acer pseudoplatanus < Betula pendula < Tilia cordata < Sorbus aucuparia < Fagus sylvatica. Their degree of isohydry was associated with leaf safety (Ptlp and gmin), drought avoidance (C) and tsc, but decoupled from xylem safety (HSM and P88) and tcrit. Regardless of their stomatal stringency, species with wider HSM and lower P88 reached critical hydraulic failure later. We conclude that the duration of the first phase is determined by stomatal regulation, while the duration of the second phase is associated with xylem safety. Isohydry is thus linked to water use rather than to drought survival strategies, confirming the proposed use of HSA as a complement to HSM for describing plant drought responses before and after stomatal closure.
A National 20-year Analysis of Weight Lifting–related Injuries and Fractures Among Adolescents
Authors: Gupta Radhika , Quintana Julio Ojea , Reddy Neil , Ayotte Steven , Lawrence J. Todd R.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Increasing strength through weightlifting has become a core component of competitive sports training, recreational exercise programs, and school physical education classes. Although many health benefits exist, there is concern for injury, especially with improper supervision and accelerated progression of training loads. Though organizations have advocated safe training practices, trends in the national health burden of injuries, specifically fractures, associated with weightlifting in the adolescent population have not been investigated.

Methods:

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database was queried between 2002 and 2021 for patients aged 11 to 21 years presenting to US Emergency Departments with weight lifting–related injuries. The narrative component of each case identified was analyzed to include only patients noted to be using weightlifting equipment or free weights at the time of injury. Estimates and analyses were performed with 95% CIs.

Results:

Although there has been some variability in weight lifting–related injuries, the incidence remained roughly constant over the 20 years (R
2=0.0364). 14,497 cases were identified, reflecting a national estimate of 540,986 total injuries and an annual estimate of 27,049 injuries. Most injuries occurred among 15-to-18-year olds (44.1%±1.6%) and 19-to-21-year olds (38.3%±2.0%). The most common injuries were sprain/strain (36.7%±1.3%), contusion/abrasion (15.7%±0.7%), and fracture (9.9%±0.3%). There were 53,813 estimated fractures, giving an annual incidence of 2,691 fractures. As a portion of all injuries, the number of fractures decreased significantly as patients got older, accounting for 26.8%±3.3% at age 11 and only 8.3%±0.9% at age 21 (R
2=0.6626). Fingers (37.1%±1.8%) and toes (27.9%±1.4%) were the most fractured body parts. Overall, fractures mainly occurred either at school (25.3%±2.0%) or places of recreation (24.7%±2.2%).

Conclusions:

Despite the guidelines to improve safety, the national health burden of weight lifting–related injuries among adolescents has remained constant over the past 20 years. Given that most of the fractures occur in the distal extremities, such as toes and fingers, at school and places of recreation, there may be an opportunity to promote safer weightlifting practices and the development of weightlifting equipment with in-built safety mechanisms, especially at gyms and schools.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—prognostic
Mitral annular disjunction and mitral valve prolapse extrapolating adult data to an adolescent cohort?
Authors: Cohen Mitchell I. , Atkins Melany B. , Jordan Christopher P.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

The aim of this study is to provide an update on mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and mitral annular disjunction (MAD) and who may be at risk for ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.

Recent findings

MVP is generally considered a benign condition. However, a small subset of patients may be at risk for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Among the risk factors identified in adults include patients with bileaflet mitral valves, myxomatous changes, myocardial fibrosis, and the presence of MAD. Advances in multimodal imaging have allowed for improved identification of fibrosis, anatomical valve derangements, and the amount of MAD. Recent guidelines have suggested that patients with MVP with or without MAD may be at risk for life-threatening arrhythmias if they have had prior ventricular arrhythmias, ventricular dysfunction, or unexplained syncope. Yet, extrapolation of adult data to a pediatric cohort with similar MVP and MAD at this juncture is challenging. There is, however, early evidence that some pediatric patients with significant myocardial fibrosis or abnormal tissue Doppler may be at risk for ventricular tachycardia.

Mitral valve prolapse and mitral annular disjunction at times coexist and at other times can be seen as isolated entities. While the incidence of arrhythmic MVP is quite rare, there is increasing evidence that certain select adults with MVP may be at risk for ventricular tachycardia and sudden cardiac death. Future multicenter studies are needed to better understand the natural history of arrhythmic mitral valve disease and how early disease manifestation in children may impact findings now being reported in young adults.
Epigenetic regulation of heart failure
Authors: Deogharia Manisha , Gurha Priyatansh
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

The studies on chromatin-modifying enzymes and how they respond to different stimuli within the cell have revolutionized our understanding of epigenetics. In this review, we provide an overview of the recent studies on epigenetic mechanisms implicated in heart failure.

Recent findings

We focus on the major mechanisms and the conceptual advances in epigenetics as evidenced by studies in humans and mouse models of heart failure. The significance of epigenetic modifications and the enzymes that catalyze them is also discussed. New findings from the studies of histone lysine demethylases demonstrate their significance in regulating fetal gene expression, as well as their aberrant expression in adult hearts during HF. Similarly, the relevance of histone deacetylases inhibition in heart failure and the role of HDAC6 in cardio-protection are discussed. Finally, the role of LMNA (lamin A/C), a nuclear membrane protein that interacts with chromatin to form hundreds of large chromatin domains known as lamin-associated domains (LADs), and 3D genome structure in epigenetic regulation of gene expression and heart failure is discussed.

Epigenetic modifications provide a mechanism for responding to stress and environmental variation, enabling reactions to both external and internal stimuli, and their dysregulation can be pathological as in heart failure. To gain a thorough understanding of the pathological mechanisms and to aid in the development of targeted treatments for heart failure, future research on studying the combined effects of numerous epigenetic changes and the structure of chromatin is warranted.