bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriate patient population for future visual system axon regeneration therapies
Authors: Bhattacharya Sanjoy K. , Alabiad Chrisfouad Raif , Kishor Krishna
Published: December 2023

A number of blinding diseases caused by damage to the optic nerve result in progressive vision loss or loss of visual acuity. Secondary glaucoma results from traumatic injuries, pseudoexfoliation or pigmentary dispersion syndrome. Progressive peripheral vision loss is common to all secondary glaucoma irrespective of the initial event. Axon regeneration is a potential therapeutic avenue to restore lost vision in these patients. In contrast to the usual approach of having the worst possible patient population for initial therapies, axon regeneration may require consideration of appropriate patient population even for initial treatment trials. The current state of axon regeneration therapies, their potential future and suitable patient population when ready is discussed in this perspective. The selection of patients are important for adoption of axon regeneration specifically in the areas of central nervous system regenerative medicine.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology

Neurological Diseases > Biomedical Engineering

Metabolic Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Structural Approach to Language Revitalisation: Revival of Aanaar Saami
Authors: Mettovaara Jukka , Ylikoski Jussi
Published: December 2023

Aanaar Saami is an indigenous language spoken by an estimated 400 people mainly around Lake Aanaar in Northern Finland. Within the past three decades, the once critically endangered language has acquired dozens of new speakers. This study provides a novel overview of the recent development of Aanaar Saami by combining a structural perspective to language change and an analysis of language ideologies behind probably one of the most successful language revitalisation projects in Europe. As for the ideological themes pertaining to Finnish influence on Aanaar Saami, it is possible to identify four recurring themes in the literature: (1) good vs. poor language, (2) language competence, (3) institutional domain, and (4) tolerance. The revitalisation of Aanaar Saami shows that even large-scale contact-induced changes need not result in a loss of linguistic or cultural identity among minority language speakers.
Non-invertible duality defect and non-commutative fusion algebra
Authors: Nagoya Yuta , Shimamori Soichiro
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We study non-invertible duality symmetries by gauging a diagonal subgroup of a non-anomalous U(1)×U(1) global symmetry. In particular, we employ the half-space gauging to c = 2 bosonic torus conformal field theory (CFT) in two dimensions and pure U(1)×U(1) gauge theory in four dimensions. In c = 2 bosonic torus CFT, we show that the non-invertible symmetry obtained from the diagonal gauging becomes emergent on an irrational CFT point. We also calculate the fusion rules concerning the duality defect. We find out that the fusion algebra is non-commutative. We also obtain a similar result in pure U(1)×U(1) gauge theory in four dimensions.
Trace anomaly of weyl fermions via the path integral
Authors: Larue Rémy , Quevillon Jérémie , Zwicky Roman
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We compute the trace, diffeomorphism and Lorentz anomalies of a free Weyl fermion in a gravitational background field by path integral methods. This is achieved by regularising the variation of the determinant of the Weyl operator building on earlier work by Leutwyler. The trace anomaly is found to be one half of the one of a Dirac fermion. Most importantly we establish that the potential parity-odd curvature term $$ R\overset{\sim }{R} $$
R

R
~

, corresponding to the Pontryagin density, vanishes. This is to the contrary of some recent findings in the literature which gave rise to a controversy. We verify, that the regularisation does not lead to (spurious) anomalies in the Lorentz and diffeomorphism symmetries. We argue that in d = 2 (mod 4) P- and CP-odd terms cannot appear and that for d = 4 (mod 4) they are absent at least at leading order.
Resolving the muon g − 2 tension through Z′-induced modifications to σhad
Authors: Coyle Nina M. , Wagner Carlos E. M.
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The QED hadronic vacuum polarization function plays an important role in the determination of precision electroweak observables and of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. These contributions have been computed from data, by means of dispersion relations affecting the electron positron hadronic cross sections, or by first principle lattice-QCD computations in the Standard Model. Today there is a discrepancy between the two approaches for determining these contributions, which affects the comparison of the measurement of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon with the theoretical predictions. In this article, we revisit the idea that this discrepancy may be explained by the presence of a new light gauge boson that couples to the first generation quark and leptons and has a mass below the GeV scale. We discuss the requirements for its consistency with observations and the phenomenological implications of such a gauge extension.
Quantum complexity and bulk timelike singularities
Authors: Katoch Gaurav , Ren Jie , Roy Shubho R.
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Quantum complexity has already shed light on CFT states dual to bulk geometries containing spacelike singularities [1–3]. In this work, we turn our attention to the quantum complexity of CFT/quantum gravity states which are dual to bulk geometries containing a naked timelike singularity. The appearance of naked timelike singularities in semiclassical gravity is allowed in string theory, particularly in the context of holography, so long as they satisfy the Gubser criterion [4, 5] — those naked timelike singularities which arise as the extremal limits of geometries containing cloaked singularities are admissible. In this work, we use holographic complexity as a probe on geometries containing naked timelike singularities and explore potential relation to the Gubser criterion for detecting allowable naked timelike singularities. We study three specific cases of naked timelike singularities, namely the negative mass Schwarzschild-AdS spacetime, the timelike Kasner-AdS [6] and Einstein-dilaton system [7]. The first two cases are outright ruled out by the Gubser criterion while the third case is more subtle — according to the Gubser criterion the singularity switches from forbidden to admissible as the parameter α is dialed in the range [0, 1] across the transition point at $$ \alpha =1/\sqrt{3} $$
α
=
1
/

3

. We probe all three geometries using two holographic complexity prescriptions, namely CA and CV. For the case of the negative mass SAdS and timelike Kasner-AdS4 the complexities display no sign of pathology (both receive finite contribution from the naked singularity). For the Einstein-Dilaton case, action-complexity does display a sharp transition from physical positive values to patholgical negative divergent values (arising from the singularity) as one transcends the Gubser bound. Our study suggests that neither action-complexity (CA) nor volume-complexity (CV) can serve as a sensitive tool to investigate (naked) timelike singularities.
Indazole derivatives as novel inhibitors of monoamine oxidase and D-amino acid oxidase
Authors: Stear Chezélle , Petzer Anél , Crous Chantalle , Petzer Jacobus P.
Published: December 2023

The monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes metabolize neurotransmitter amines in the peripheral and central tissues, and inhibitors of these enzymes find application in the treatment of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Based on reports that the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibitor, 7-nitroindazole, inhibits the MAO-B isoform, the present study investigated the MAO inhibition potencies of a synthetic series of fifteen C5- and C6-substituted indazole derivatives. While only one derivative (5c) was a submicromolar inhibitor of human MAO-A (IC50 = 0.745 µM), all compounds inhibited human MAO-B with submicromolar IC50 values. Substitution on C5 of indazole yielded particularly potent MAO-B inhibition with IC50 values that ranged from 0.0025–0.024 µM. Further investigation of a selected indazole derivative showed a competitive mode of MAO inhibition. To further explore the pharmacological properties of the indazole derivatives, they were also evaluated as potential inhibitors of porcine D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO). None of the synthetic compounds were noteworthy DAAO inhibitors, however, 1H-indazol-5-ol, a synthetic precursor, was found to be a good potency inhibitor with an IC50 value of 2.03 µM.
Influence of pre-treatment using non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet on aluminum alloy A1050 to PEEK direct joining with hot-pressing process
Authors: Takenaka Kosuke , Jinda Akiya , Nakamoto Soutaro , Koyari Ryosuke , Toko Susumu , Uchida Giichiro , Setsuhara Yuichi
Published: December 2023

Aluminum alloy A1050 to polyetheretherketone (PEEK) direct joining with hot-pressing process via pre-treatment using non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet has been performed. The effect of plasma irradiation on the tensile shear strength of A1050-PEEK direct bonded specimens joined by a combination of hot-pressing process and pre-plasma treatment using non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet was investigated. A1050-PEEK bonded samples with plasma-treated PEEK only showed high tensile shear stress of 13.4 MPa. This increase in tensile shear strength is attributed to the addition of oxygen functional groups on the surface of the PEEK by reactive oxygen species produced by the plasma jet.
Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of apixaban to predict exposure in populations with hepatic and renal impairment and elderly populations
Authors: Xu Yichao , Zhang Lei , Dou Xiaofan , Dong Yongze , Guo Xiangchai
Published: December 2023

Background

Apixaban is a factor Xa inhibitor with a limited therapeutic index that belongs to the family of oral direct anticoagulants. The pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of apixaban may be altered in elderly populations and populations with renal or hepatic impairment, necessitating dosage adjustments.

Methods

This study was conducted to examine how the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model describes the PKs of apixaban in adult and elderly populations and to determine the PKs of apixaban in elderly populations with renal and hepatic impairment. After PBPK models were constructed using the reported physicochemical properties of apixaban and clinical data, they were validated using data from clinical studies involving various dose ranges. Comparing predicted and observed blood concentration data and PK parameters was utilized to evaluate the model’s fit performance.

Results

Doses should be reduced to approximately 70% of the healthy adult population for the healthy elderly population to achieve the same PK exposure; approximately 88%, 71%, and 89% of that for the elderly populations with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively; and approximately 96%, 81%, and 58% of that for the Child Pugh-A, Child Pugh-B, and Child Pugh-C hepatic impairment elderly populations, respectively to achieve the same PK exposure.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the renal and hepatic function might be considered for apixaban therapy in Chinese elderly patients and the PBPK model can be used to optimize dosage regimens for specific populations.
Using the softplus function to construct alternative link functions in generalized linear models and beyond
Authors: Wiemann Paul F. V. , Kneib Thomas , Hambuckers Julien
Published: December 2023

Response functions that link regression predictors to properties of the response distribution are fundamental components in many statistical models. However, the choice of these functions is typically based on the domain of the modeled quantities and is usually not further scrutinized. For example, the exponential response function is often assumed for parameters restricted to be positive, although it implies a multiplicative model, which is not necessarily desirable or adequate. Consequently, applied researchers might face misleading results when relying on such defaults. For parameters restricted to be positive, we propose to construct alternative response functions based on the softplus function. These response functions are differentiable and correspond closely to the identity function for positive values of the regression predictor implying a quasi-additive model. Consequently, the proposed response functions allow for an additive interpretation of the estimated effects by practitioners and can be a better fit in certain data situations. We study the properties of the newly constructed response functions and demonstrate the applicability in the context of count data regression and Bayesian distributional regression. We contrast our approach to the commonly used exponential response function.
2023 Updated MASCC/ESMO Consensus Recommendations: prevention of radiotherapy- and chemoradiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
Authors: Ruhlmann Christina H. , Jordan Karin , Jahn Franziska , Maranzano Ernesto , Molassiotis Alex , Dennis Kristopher
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV and C-RINV) are common and distressing, and there is a need for guidance for clinicians to provide up to date optimal antiemetic prophylaxis and treatment. Through a comprehensive review of the literature concerning RINV and C-RINV, this manuscript aims to update the evidence for antiemetic prophylaxis and rescue therapy and provide a new edition of recommendations for the MASCC/ESMO antiemetic guidelines for RINV and C-RINV.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature including data published from May 1, 2015, to January 31, 2023, was performed. All authors assessed the literature.

Results

The searches yielded 343 references; 37 met criteria for full article review, and 20 were ultimately retained. Only one randomized study in chemoradiation had the impact to provide new recommendations for the antiemetic guideline. Based on expert consensus, it was decided to change the recommendation for the “low emetic risk” category from “prophylaxis or rescue” to “rescue” only, while the drugs of choice remain unchanged.

Conclusion

As for the previous guideline, the serotonin receptor antagonists are still the cornerstone in antiemetic prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting induced by high and moderate emetic risk radiotherapy. The guideline update provides new recommendation for the management of C-RINV for radiotherapy and concomitant weekly cisplatin. To avoid overtreatment, antiemetic prophylaxis is no longer recommended for the “low emetic risk” category.
The geometry of risk adjustments
Authors: Bermin Hans-Peter , Holm Magnus
Published: December 2023

We present a geometric approach to portfolio theory with a focus on risk-adjusted returns, in particular Jensen’s alpha. We find that while the alpha/beta approach has severe limitations, especially in higher dimensions, only minor conceptual modifications (e.g., using orthogonal Sharpe ratios rather than risk-adjusted returns) are needed to identify the efficient trading strategies. We further show that, in a complete market, the so-called market price of risk vector is identical to the growth optimal Kelly vector, albeit expressed in coordinates of a different basis. This implies that a derivative, having an orthogonal Sharpe ratio of zero, has a price given by the minimal martingale measure.
Insight into Automatic Image Diagnosis of Ear Conditions Based on Optimized Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Afify Heba M. , Mohammed Kamel K. , Hassanien Aboul Ella
Published: December 2023

Examining otoscopic images for ear diseases is necessary when the clinical diagnosis of ear diseases extracted from the knowledge of otolaryngologists is limited. Improved diagnosis approaches based on otoscopic image processing are urgently needed. Recently, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been carried out for medical diagnosis to obtain higher accuracy than standard machine learning algorithms and specialists' expertise. Therefore, the proposed approach involves using the Bayesian hyperparameter optimization with the CNN architecture for automatic diagnosis of ear imagery database including four classes: normal, myringosclerosis, earwax plug, and chronic otitis media (COM). The suggested approach was trained using 616 otoscopic images, and the performance of this approach was assessed using 264 testing images. In this paper, the performance of ear disease classification was compared in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV). The results produced a classification accuracy of 98.10%, a sensitivity of 98.11%, a specificity of 99.36%, and a PPV of 98.10%. Finally, the suggested approach demonstrates how to locate optimal CNN hyperparameters for accurate diagnosis of ear diseases while taking time into account. As a result, the usefulness and dependability of the suggested approach will lead to the establishment of an automated tool for better categorization and prediction of different ear diseases.
Co-benefits as a rationale and co-benefits as a factor for urban climate action: linking air quality and emission reductions in Moscow, Paris, and Montreal
Authors: Roggero Matteo , Gotgelf Anastasiia , Eisenack Klaus
Published: December 2023

If local governments reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they will not see effects unless a very large number of other actors do the same. However, reducing greenhouse gas emissions can have multiple local “co-benefits” (improved air quality, energy savings, even energy security), creating incentives for local governments to reduce emissions—if just for the local side-effects of doing so. Available empirical research yet shows a large gap between co-benefits as a rationale and an explanatory factor for climate mitigation by local governments: co-benefits are seemingly very large, but do not seem to drive local mitigation efforts. Relying on policy documents, available research, and other written sources, the present paper consists of a multiple case study addressing the link between co-benefits and climate mitigation in Moscow, Paris, and Montreal. Air quality plays a very different role in each case, ranging from a key driver of mitigation to a liability for local climate action. This heterogeneity of mechanisms in place emerges as a likely explanation for the lack of a clear empirical link between co-benefits and local mitigation in the literature. We finally discuss implications for urban climate action policy and research.
Stable Colloidal Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: A New Green Nanofertilizer and Therapeutic Nutrient for Eggplant Immune Response Against Fusarium Wilt Disease
Authors: Elbasuney Sherif , El-Sayyad Gharieb S. , Abdelaziz Amer M. , Rizk Samar H. , Tolba Mahmoud M. , Attia Mohamed S.
Published: December 2023

Cultivating crops often presents numerous challenges, including resource loss such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides, as well as the spread and escalation of infections. Nanotechnology offers promising solutions to enhance plant immunity and resolve agricultural issues. In this study, in order to preventFusarium-wilt disease in eggplants, we concentrated on the simple manufacture of colloidal ferric oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3NPs) as a promising nanofertilizers. To evaluate the effectiveness of systemic resistance (SR) development, we evaluated markers of metabolic resistance, photosynthetic pigments, plant protection, and disease index (DI). Positively, Fe2O3NPs exhibit significant antifungal activity againstFusarium oxysporum. However, when applied at a concentration of 20 µg/mL, Fe2O3NPs proved to be the most effective treatment, reducing the  percent disease index (PDI) from 82.5% in infected control plants to 22.5%. Similar results were observed with a concentration of 10 µg/mL Fe2O3NPs. In both healthy and diseaseed plants, Fe2O3NP treatments also showed beneficial effects on the activity of antioxidant enzymes, osmolytes, and photosynthetic pigments. Notably, compared to untreatedFusarium-infected plants, the application of Fe2O3NPs at a concentration of 20 µg/mL significantly increased the levels of osmolyte, comprising soluble sugar, proline, and soluble protein, by 32.88%, 47.09%, and 31.34%, respectively. Furthermore, in both healthy and diseased eggplants, Fe2O3NPs at a concentration of 20 µg/mL increased the levels of photosynthetic pigments, osmolytes, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase enzymes. Overall, our research findings indicates that Fe2O3NPs can successfully decreased the harmful effects thatF. oxysporumcauses to infected eggplants. With their promising therapeutic potential, these nanoparticles provide a secure and effective substitute for chemical fungicides in the management ofFusariumwilt disease.
Hybrid hierarchical aggregation with semi dynamic optical line terminal distribution algorithms optimization for ethernet passive optical networks
Authors: Abdallah Khaled Farouk , Hussein Mohamed , Aly Moustafa H. , Azim Mohamed Abdel , Taleb Ahmed Mohamed Abo , Maher Mohammad A.
Published: December 2023

The goal of hybrid fiber-wireless (Fi-Wi) access networks is to ubiquitously integrate the accessible vast amounts of optical network bandwidth with wireless network mobility at minimal cost and simple network installation. Fi-Wi networks can employ both Radio over Fiber (RoF) and Radio and Fiber (R&F) technologies. The difference between them is that R&F uses two MAC controls: one for optical fiber and one for wireless networks. One can reduce interference within the wireless subnetwork while avoiding the negative effects of fiber optic propagation delays on the network. RoF, on the other hand, uses MAC control for both optical and wireless networks, resulting in network latency and congestion. This paper demonstrates (i) the use of semi-dynamic bandwidth allocation and (ii) the use of hierarchical frame aggregation for access in next-level integrated Ethernet passive optical network EPON/WLAN-based generations and presents the ongoing research to improve the Quality of Service in wireless and fiber access networks. The study includes an offered load up to 10 Gbps, reaching the up-to-date levels. The obtained results reveal that the data, voice, and video latency are reduced, respectively, by 35%, 25%, and 30%. At the same time, the corresponding throughput is increased, respectively, for data, voice, and video by 35%, 25%, and 30%.
Capturing and Developing Teachers’ Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Sustainable Development Using Content Representation and Video-Based Reflection
Authors: Forsler Annika , Nilsson Pernilla , Walan Susanne
Published: December 2023

This study focuses on how science teachers’ Pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) can be captured and developed with the support of Content representation (CoRe) in combination with video-based reflection when they plan, teach, and reflect on their teaching in sustainable development (SD). The theoretical framework is based on PCK, and the Refined consensus model (RCM) is used as a theoretical lens for conceptualising links between teaching practice and PCK development. Eleven upper-secondary school science teachers participated in the study. Data from two teachers were chosen to illustrate representative examples from the analysis. The findings indicate that the use of CoRe and video-based reflection provides opportunities for teachers to make their knowledge of practice explicit and help them begin to identify aspects within their own practice that are important for the further development of teaching SD. The use of RCM as an analytical tool also makes an important contribution to how RCM can be used to identify and capture teachers’ PCK.
Low-density parity-check codes: tracking non-stationary channel noise using sequential variational Bayesian estimates
Authors: du Toit J. , du Preez J. , Wolhuter R.
Published: December 2023

We present a sequential Bayesian learning method for tracking non-stationary signal-to-noise ratios in low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes by way of probabilistic graphical models. We represent the LDPC code as a cluster graph using a general purpose cluster graph construction algorithm called the layered trees running intersection property (LTRIP) algorithm. The channel noise estimator is a global gamma cluster, which we extend to allow for Bayesian tracking of non-stationary noise variation. We evaluate our proposed model on real-world 5G drive-test data. Our results show that our model can track non-stationary channel noise accurately while adding performance benefits to the LDPC code, which outperforms an LDPC code with a fixed stationary knowledge of the actual channel noise.
Nodular pyogranulomatous panniculitis due to Leishmania infantum infection in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Giner Jacobo , Jiménez Jordi , Gómez Alex , Rodríguez-Largo Ana , Juan-Sallés Carles , Riera Cristina , Fisa Roser , Villanueva-Saz Sergio
Published: December 2023

Leishmaniosis is a vector-borne disease caused by different Leishmania species and transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies under natural conditions in Europe. Scientific information related to Leishmania infantum in dogs is extensive, where less information is available in cats and other companion animals. Recently, first clinical cases of L.infantum infection in domestic ferrrets (Mustela putorius furo) have been described. However, clinical information on leishmaniosis in this species is limited A 15-month-old male neutered domestic ferret was presented with chronic weight loss and the presence of coalescent, erythematous and firm subcutaneous nodules in the ventral abdominal subcutis. A fine-needle aspiration of these nodules was performed and the cytological examination revealed a granulomatous inflammation with the presence of macrophages contained a number of oval organisms with an eccentric nucleus and pale cytoplasm, compatible with Leishmania spp. amastigotes compatible with Leishmania spp. amastigotes. The nodules were surgically excised and histological examination showed a severe multifocal pyogranulomatous panniculitis. Specific immunohistochemistry and qPCR for L. infantum from excised nodules were positive. Additionally, L. infantum was cultured and isolated from the nodules by a fine-needle aspiration. An in-house Western Blot test for L. infantum was performed in serum sample and a positive result was obtained. This is the first reported case of nodular pyogranulomatous panniculitis due to L. infantum infection in a domestic ferret. Further studies are necessary to determine the relevance of domestic ferrets in the transmission of leishmaniosis. The description of new clinical forms of the disease is important as it can assist veterinarians in identifying these new clinical presentations.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Modulates Microglia Phenotype to Suppress Pro-inflammatory Signalling Cues and Inhibit Phagocytosis
Authors: Regan Philip , Hole Katriona L. , Sero Julia , Williams Robert J.
Published: December 2023

Microglia are crucial players in the pathogenesis of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with evidence for both deleterious and beneficial effects. Identifying interventions to modulate microglial responsiveness, promote amyloid β (Aβ) clearance, disrupt plaque formation, or dampen excessive inflammation has therapeutic potential. Bioavailable flavonoids, such as the flavan 3-ols, are of interest due to their antioxidant, metal chelating, signalling, and anti-inflammatory potential. Primary microglia were treated with a series of structurally related flavanol 3-ols to assess effects on phagocytosis, cytokine release, and transcriptional responses by RNA sequencing. Data indicated that the extent of hydroxylation and the presence of the galloyl moiety were strong determinants of flavan 3-ol activity. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was the most effective flavan-3-ol tested and strongly inhibited phagocytosis of Aβ independent of any metal chelating properties, suggesting a more direct modulation of microglia responsiveness. EGCG was broadly anti-inflammatory, reducing cytokine release and downregulating transcription, particularly of components of the microglia extracellular matrix such as MMP3 and SerpinB2. Collectively, this brings new insight into the actions of flavonoids on microglial responsiveness with potential implications for the therapeutic use of EGCG and structurally related flavanol-3-ols in AD.
A twenty-year bibliometric analysis on the relationship between complicated grief and attachment
Authors: Ribera-Asensi Olga , Valero-Moreno Selene , Pérez-Marín Marián
Published: December 2023

Attachment theory is a key paradigm for understanding individual differences for the elaboration of the grieving processes, however limited attempts to systematically synthesize are found on the literature. Our aim is to conduct a bibliometric analysis about the relationship between complicated grief and attachment over the past twenty years. A bibliographic search was made in the Core Collection of Web of Science, the bibliometric analysis was performed using the software Hiscite version 2010.12.6, and VosViewer were used for the construction of bibliometric maps. Results show 276 publications from 2003 until 2023 from 789 authors, published in 143 scientific journals. The field presents a regular increase and sustained number of publications. The topics most researched were bereavement, complicated grief and attachment, and since 2018 has been increased interest in prolonged grief disorder. In conclusion, this bibliometric analysis contributes to the understanding of the current state of this topic and its evolution, being relevant to consider attachment style in bereavement interventions.
Costly effective bioleaching of valuable metals from low grade ore using Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Ahmed B. M. , Mohammed A. A. , Kawady N. A. , Elaasy I. E. , Soliman E. R. S.
Published: December 2023

This research investigated the feasibility of employing organic acids, like citric acid, produced by Aspergillus nidulans MT355567 in a bioleaching process to recover uranium (U) from a low-grade rock sample. The optimal conditions for fungal growth and maximum citric acid (CA) synthesis across three distinct media were determined. The maximum citric acid concentration was produced on medium made from wheat bran (83%) and tea waste (77%). An investigation was carried out to see how citric acid and, by consequence, uranium bioleaching affinity, were affected by varying carbon sources, nitrogen sources, pH, temperature, incubation period, ore particle size, and the solid–liquid ratio. At 25 °C and a pH of 5.0, media containing 100 g/L of sucrose as a carbon source and peptone as a nitrogen source made the highest yield of citric acid and U bioleaching. Higher U bioleaching was achieved with ore particles 0.075 mm at a ratio of 2 g/L after only 30 min of contact with the fungal filtrate. Iron interference has a negative impact on uranium extraction. Interestingly, none of the conditions applied to enhance CA synthesis and U-bioleaching caused iron (Fe) dissolution. Based on these findings, it appears that bioleaching using A. nidulans MT355567 metabolic products is a promising economic and ecofriendly technology for extracting uranium from low-grade ore that might be adopted on a pilot scale.

Graphical abstract

summarizing the experimental workflow for bioleaching of uranium from low-grade ore using citric acid produced by Aspergillus nidulans. The process involved optimizing A. nidulans growth and citric acid biosynthesis, evaluating factors influencing bioleaching activity of the acid metabolite solutions, and finally applying the optimized conditions to bioleach uranium from the ore sample. The schematic illustrates the key steps and the optimal condition for Aspergillus nidulans growth medium preparation using agricultural wastes, downstream application of metabolite synthesized for uranium bioleaching
Two material removal modes in chemical mechanical polishing: mechanical plowing vs. chemical bonding
Authors: Wu Yuan , Jiang Liang , Li Wenhui , Zheng Jiaxin , Chen Yushan , Qian Linmao
Published: December 2023

With the rapid development of semiconductors, the number of materials needed to be polished sharply increases. The material properties vary significantly, posing challenges to chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). Accordingly, the study aimed to classify the material removal mechanism. Based on the CMP and atomic force microscopy results, the six representative metals can be preliminarily classified into two groups, presumably due to different material removal modes. From the tribology perspective, the first group of Cu, Co, and Ni may mainly rely on the mechanical plowing effect. After adding H2O2, corrosion can be first enhanced and then suppressed, affecting the surface mechanical strength. Consequently, the material removal rate (MRR) and the surface roughness increase and decrease. By comparison, the second group of Ta, Ru, and Ti may primarily depend on the chemical bonding effect. Adding H2O2 can promote oxidation, increasing interfacial chemical bonds. Therefore, the MRR increases, and the surface roughness decreases and levels off. In addition, CMP can be regulated by tuning the synergistic effect of oxidation, complexation, and dissolution for mechanical plowing, while tuning the synergistic effect of oxidation and ionic strength for chemical bonding. The findings provide mechanistic insight into the material removal mechanism in CMP.
The Academic Medicine and Leadership Track for Medical Students
Authors: Glaser Kelli , McEchron Matthew , Jensen Clyde , Park David
Published: December 2023

Physicians are expected to be educators and leaders, but few medical schools offer dedicated coursework or training to prepare medical students to meet those expectations. Since 2018, Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine has offered a longitudinal Academic Medicine and Leadership (AML) Track in which medical students acquire knowledge and develop skills for academic medicine and leadership that will enhance their ability to become effective educators and leaders in their clinics, hospitals, professional associations, communities, and affiliated medical schools. This paper describes the novel AML Track, its learning activities, and some of its emerging outcomes.
Spatial-temporal episodic memory modeling for ADLs: encoding, retrieval, and prediction
Authors: Song Xinjing , Wang Di , Quek Chai , Tan Ah-Hwee , Wang Yanjiang
Published: December 2023

Activities of daily living (ADLs) relate to people’s daily self-care activities, which reflect their living habits and lifestyle. A prior study presented a neural network model called STADLART for ADL routine learning. In this paper, we propose a cognitive model named Spatial-Temporal Episodic Memory for ADL (STEM-ADL), which extends STADLART to encode event sequences in the form of distributed episodic memory patterns. Specifically, STEM-ADL encodes each ADL and its associated contextual information as an event pattern and encodes all events in a day as an episode pattern. By explicitly encoding the temporal characteristics of events as activity gradient patterns, STEM-ADL can be suitably employed for activity prediction tasks. In addition, STEM-ADL can predict both the ADL type and starting time of the subsequent event in one shot. A series of experiments are carried out on two real-world ADL data sets: Orange4Home and OrdonezB, to estimate the efficacy of STEM-ADL. The experimental results indicate that STEM-ADL is remarkably robust in event retrieval using incomplete or noisy retrieval cues. Moreover, STEM-ADL outperforms STADLART and other state-of-the-art models in ADL retrieval and subsequent event prediction tasks. STEM-ADL thus offers a vast potential to be deployed in real-life healthcare applications for ADL monitoring and lifestyle recommendation.
An improved DeepLabv3+ lightweight network for remote-sensing image semantic segmentation
Authors: Chen Hui , Qin Yuanshou , Liu Xinyuan , Wang Haitao , Zhao Jinling
Published: December 2023

To improve the accuracy of remote-sensing image semantic segmentation in complex scenario, an improved DeepLabv3+ lightweight neural network is proposed. Specifically, the lightweight network MobileNetv2 is used as the backbone network. In atrous spatial pyramid pooling (ASPP), to alleviate the gridding effect, the Dilated Convolution in original DeepLabv3+ network is replaced with the Hybrid Dilated Convolution (HDC) module. In addition, the traditional spatial mean pooling is replaced by the strip pooling module (SPN) to improve the local segmentation effect. In the decoder, to obtain the rich low-level target edge information, the ResNet50 residual network is added after the low-level feature fusion. To enhance the shallow semantic information, the efficient and lightweight Normalization-based Attention Module (NAM) is added to capture the feature information of small target objects. The results show that, under the INRIA Aerial Image Dataset and same parameter setting, the Mean Pixel Accuracy (MPA) and Mean Intersection over Union (MIoU) are generally best than DeepLabv3+ , U-Net, and PSP-Net, which are respectively improved by 1.22%, − 0.22%, and 2.22% and 2.17%, 1.35%, and 3.42%. Our proposed method has also a good performance on the small object segmentation and multi-object segmentation. What’s more, it significantly converges faster with fewer model parameters and stronger computing power while ensuring the segmentation effect. It is proved to be robust and can provide a methodological reference for high-precision remote-sensing image semantic segmentation.
Users’ Experiences with Web-Based Mental Health App During COVID-19
Authors: Koushkaki Sara Rahmanian , Banta Jim E. , Heilemann MarySue V. , Grohar Albin H. , Chung Kyusuk , Wells Kenneth
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on individuals, families, and communities, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and mental health issues. To address these needs, Together for Wellness/Juntos por Nuestro Bienestar (T4W/Juntos), a website providing mental health resources, was created. This study aims to understand the experiences of users of the T4W/Juntos website, to learn about the benefits of the website for its users during the pandemic, and to identify areas for improvement. A thematic analysis was conducted with answers given by 199 participants who responded to at least one of six open-ended questions that were included with other close-ended questions (reported elsewhere) in an electronically administered survey. The open-ended survey questions were developed with input from diverse stakeholders, including under-resourced populations. The sample was recruited through partnerships with 11 state-wide agencies. Five main themes were identified from analysis of the data. The major themes were (1) Disruptions and Challenges Experienced During the COVID-19 Pandemic, (2) Benefiting from an Accessible Website, and (3) Wanting Access to Additional Resources. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Subjects approved the study, and participants provided informed consent. The website provided access to resource links that brought needed information, a sense of empowerment, and support for individuals dealing with mental health issues related to the pandemic. Participants highly recommended the website to others. However, they also suggested improvements such as more specific resources and additional languages.
A computational study on efficient yield surface calibrations using a crystal plasticity spectral solver
Authors: Aria Arash Imani , Mánik Tomas , Holmedal Bjørn , Marthinsen Knut
Published: December 2023

A computational framework is presented, capable of calculating virtual loads using the spectral solver in the DAMASK software for crystal plasticity simulations in desired stress directions. Calculations are used for the calibration of yield surfaces. The required spatial resolution is assessed based on a comparison with the previously published crystal plasticity finite-element method (CPFEM) and experimental results for three different aluminum alloys (AA1050, AA3103O, and AA3103H18) with 1000 and 2500 grains in a representative volume element. The results of the crystal plasticity fast Fourier transform (CPFFT) method agree well with CPFEM. The elongated grain morphology of the AA3103H18 alloy was found to have a small effect on predicted anisotropy. An analysis was made of how many tests are required for proper calibration of the Yld2004-18p orthotropic yield surface. It was found that 32 virtual tests, along either uniformly distributed strain rate or stress directions but obeying the orthotropic symmetry of the Yld2004-18p yield surface, make a good compromise between accuracy and computation time. Randomly chosen directions have a significantly larger error and require more virtual tests for a similarly good calibration of the yield surface. Since a preselected set of strain–rate directions does not require extra iterations, it is the preferred choice for the calibration of the full stress-based Yld2004-18p.
A chromosome-level genome of electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus) provided new insights into order Siluriformes evolution
Authors: Liu Meiru , Song Yue , Zhang Suyu , Yu Lili , Yuan Zengbao , Yang Hengjia , Zhang Mengqi , Zhou Zhuocheng , Seim Inge , Liu Shanshan , Fan Guangyi , Yang Huanming
Published: December 2023

The electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus), belonging to the family Malapteruridae, order Siluriformes (Actinopterygii: Ostariophysi), is one of the six branches that has independently evolved electrical organs. We assembled a 796.75 Mb M. electricus genome and anchored 88.72% sequences into 28 chromosomes. Gene family analysis revealed 295 expanded gene families that were enriched on functions related to glutamate receptors. Convergent evolutionary analyses of electric organs among different lineage of electric fishes further revealed that the coding gene of rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 4-like (arhgef4), which is associated with G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway, underwent adaptive parallel evolution. Gene identification suggests visual degradation in catfishes, and an important role for taste in environmental adaptation. Our findings fill in the genomic data for a branch of electric fish and provide a relevant genetic basis for the adaptive evolution of Siluriformes.
On the reflexivity properties of Banach bundles and Banach modules
Authors: Lučić Milica , Pasqualetto Enrico , Vojnović Ivana
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we investigate some reflexivity-type properties of separable measurable Banach bundles over a $$\sigma $$
σ
-finite measure space. Our two main results are the following:

The fibers of a bundle are uniformly convex (with a common modulus of convexity) if and only if the space of its $$L^p$$

L
p

-sections is uniformly convex for every $$p\in (1,\infty )$$

p
∈
(
1
,
∞
)

.

The fibers of a bundle are reflexive if and only if the space of its $$L^p$$

L
p

-sections is reflexive for every $$p\in (1,\infty )$$

p
∈
(
1
,
∞
)

.

They generalise well-known results for Lebesgue–Bochner spaces.
Evaluation of lead tolerance and biosorption characteristics of fungi from dumpsite soils
Authors: Titilawo Mobolaji Adenike , Ajani Temitope Fasunloye , Adedapo Suliyat Adeola , Akinleye Grace Oluwabusola , Ogunlana Olafunke Esther , Aderibigbe Deborah
Published: December 2023

Lead (Pb) pollution is a major concern in many developing nations of the world. Hence, there is a need for the development of an environmentally safe and cost-effective method for the clean-up of contaminated environments. The present study investigated the tolerance of presumptively identified fungal species isolated from 5 different dumpsite soils to Pb concentrations 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1500, 5000, and 10000 mg/L. The identity of strains exhibiting outstanding tolerance was confirmed using molecular technique, and their biosorption capacity at 10000 mg/L was evaluated. FTIR and SEM analyses were performed on the Pb2+ untreated and treated fungal biomasses. A total of 17 fungal isolates belonging to the genera Aspergillus Alternaria, Chrysosporium, and Penicillium were obtained. All the fungi were resistant to the test concentrations of Pb2+ except Chrysosporium sp. (at 5000 mg/L and 10000 mg/L) and Alternaria sp. (at 1500 mg/L, 5000 mg/L, and 10000 mg/L). Four isolates molecularly identified as A. awamori OP341445 and OP341446 and A. niger OP342447 and OP341448 recorded outstanding tolerance (> 1). Biosorption capacity was at its peak on day 5 except in OP34148, day 10 with a value of 97.82 mg/g. The Pb2+ removal rate was at equilibrium on day 5 (≈86%) except for OP41447 and OP41448 (≈87%) on day 15. FTIR analysis reveals the involvement of functional groups O-H, C-H, N-H, O=C=O, C≡C, N=C=S, C=C, N-O, C-N, and S=O in the biosorption process. SEM showed distortion in the cellular structure of the fungi. These results indicated the lead remediation potential of the fungal strains.
Chemistry's Metaphysics
Authors: Seifert Vanessa A.
Published: December 2023

The place of chemistry in the metaphysics of science may be viewed as peripheral compared to physics and biology. However, a metaphysics of science that disregards chemistry would be incomplete and ill-informed. This Element establishes this claim by showing how key metaphysical issues are informed by drawing on chemistry. Five metaphysical topics are investigated: natural kinds, scientific realism, reduction, laws and causation. These topics are spelled out from the perspective of ten chemical case studies, each of which illuminates the novel ways that metaphysics of science can be informed by chemistry. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Aristotle's Ontology of Artefacts
Authors: Papandreou Marilù
Published: December 2023

It is commonly believed that Aristotle merely uses artefacts as examples or analogical cases. This book, however, shows that Aristotle gives a specific, coherent account of artefacts that in various ways owes much to Plato. Moreover, it proposes a new, definitive solution to the problem of artefacts' substantiality, which comprises two controversial positions: (i) that Aristotle holds a binary view of substantiality according to which artefacts are not substances at all; (ii) that artefacts fail to be substances because they exhibit less of a unity than natural wholes. Finally, responding to the contemporary debate on ordinary objects, the book identifies the main propositions for an ontology of artefacts that aspires to use Aristotle as its authority and can serve as a guideline for current metaphysical discussions. This title is part of the Flip it Open Programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.