bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of type and number of high‐risk criteria with cancer specific mortality in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy
Authors: Chierigo Francesco , Flammia Rocco Simone , Sorce Gabriele , Hoeh Benedikt , Hohenhorst Lukas , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Graefen Marcus , Gallucci Michele , Briganti Alberto , Montorsi Francesco , Chun Felix K. H. , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Guano Giovanni , Mantica Guglielmo , Borghesi Marco , Suardi Nazareno , Terrone Carlo , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: March 2023

Background

To assess the association between of type and number of D'Amico high‐risk criteria (DHRCs) with rates of cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with external beam radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

In the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2004–2016), we identified 34,908 RT patients with at least one DHRCs, namely prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) >20 ng/dL (hrPSA), biopsy Grade Group (hrGG) 4–5, clinical T stage (hrcT) ≥T2c. Multivariable Cox regression models (CRM), as well as competing risks regression (CRR) model, which further adjust for other cause mortality, tested the association between DHRCs and 5‐year CSM.

Results

Of 34,908 patients, 14,777 (42%) exclusively harbored hrGG, 5641 (16%) hrPSA, 4390 (13%) had hrcT. Only 8238 (23.7%) harbored any combination of two DHRCs and 1862 (5.3%) had all three DHRCs. Five‐year CSM rates ranged from 2.4% to 5.0% when any individual DHRC was present (hrcT, hrPSA, hrGG, in that order), versus 5.2% to 10.5% when two DHRCs were present (hrPSA+hrcT, hrcT+hrGG, hrPSA+hrGG, in that order) versus 14.4% when all three DHRCs were identified. In multivariable CRM hazard ratios relative to hrcT ranged from 1.07 to 1.76 for one DHRC, 2.20 to 3.83 for combinations of two DHRCs, and 5.11 for all three DHRCs. Multivariable CRR yielded to virtually the same results.

Conclusions

Our study indicates a stimulus‐response effect according to the type and number of DHRCs. This indicates potential for risk‐stratification within HR PCa patients that could be applied in clinical decision making to increase or reduce treatment intensity.
Bulk Modulus, Elastic Constants, and Force Constants of Interatomic Bonds of II–III2–VI4 Compounds
Authors: Mamedova Irada A. , Jahangirli Zakir A. , Kerimova Taira G. , Abdullayev Nadir A.
Published: March 2023

Ab initio density functional perturbation theory is used to calculate the elastic constants of CdGa2S4, CdGa2Se4, CdGa2Te4, and ZnGa2Se4 thiogallates. The values of the bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio are determined. The force constants of interatomic bonds in CdGa2Te4 and ZnGa2Se4 compounds are calculated. Regularities in the dependence of the frequencies of Raman‐active phonons on the atomic masses are established.
Interfacial and Tribological Characteristics of MoS2 on Ni Under Nanoindentation and Nanoscratch
Authors: Huang Chia-Wei , Lai Tang-Yu , Fang Te-Hua , Liang Shih-Wei
Published: March 2023

With the rapid development of science and technology, microscale machining has become an important topic, and lubricants play a vital role in machining. Solid lubricants are suitable for a variety of precision machining better than liquid lubricants. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) in 2D‐layered nanomaterials is a promising candidate for use as a solid lubricant. Herein, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are performed to study the effects of scratch depth, speed, and temperature on the mechanical properties of Ni‐based MoS2 thin films. The results show that atom stacking and extrusion around the abrasive tip increase the friction coefficient in the indentation and scratch phases. The higher value of scratch depths, speeds, and temperatures can lead to higher friction coefficients and wider dislocation distributions. Moreover, Shockley dislocation appears in all cases at all effects, and the total dislocation length increases with the higher value of scratch depths, speeds, and temperatures.
Effect of Annealed and Non‐Annealed Inorganic MnS Hole‐Transport Layer for Efficient Sb2(S,Se)3 Solar Cells: A Theoretical Justification
Authors: Sekar Karthick , Mayarambakam Sasikumar
Published: March 2023

Due to excellent optoelectronic properties, as well as low toxicity, inexpensiveness, and easy availability, the antimony chalcogenides (Sb2(S,Se)3) have emerged as promising and attractive light‐harvesting materials for efficient inorganic solar cells. However, poor stability and the high cost of the conventional organic hole‐transport layer (HTL, Spiro‐OMeTAD) create room to find alternative low‐cost, stable inorganic HTL materials. In that perspective, experimentally thermally evaporated low‐cost inorganic manganese sulfide (MnS) semiconductor is an excellent choice for the HTL with/without post‐annealing treatment. Therefore, herein, initially, an experimental HTL‐free Sb2(S,Se)3 device is simulated, including four other different bandgap‐based devices using SCAPS‐1D software. Later, the effect of annealed and non‐annealed MnS‐HTL for all five Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells is systematically investigated. It is revealed that all the chosen narrow to wider bandgap‐based Sb2(S,Se)3 devices display enhanced photovoltaic performances after adding the MnS‐HTL, specifically the annealed MnS‐HTL. Due to enhanced energy level alignment and the hole transport between the absorber/HTL interfaces, the narrow‐bandgap device presents higher power conversion efficiency, gets enriched from 8.3% (initial HTL‐free device) to 12.1% (non‐annealed MnS‐HTL device) and 12.7% (annealed MnS‐HTL device), and proves that annealed MnS‐HTL is a feasible substitute for other HTLs.
Rough Entanglement: Not Enough Fourier
Authors: Mastriani Mario
Published: March 2023

This work presents a new form of entanglement known as rough entanglement. It is based on the quantum Fourier transform (QFT) and is an alternative to those used in quantum information processing for generating maximally and nonmaximally entangled states. The roughly entangled pairs are used in the quantum teleportation protocol, where, the performance achieved in the reconstruction of the teleported state is evaluated. The aforementioned teleportation is implemented on a simulator and a 5‐qubit physical machine from the IBM Q Experience inventory. Emphasis is placed on the teleportation of computational basis states (CBS) commonly used in quantum key distribution protocols. Finally, in previous works, it is shown that to generate Bell states the intervention of two QFT blocks is required, while the rough version requires only one. The lack of a second layer or QFT block in its constitution gives the name to this new type of entanglement.
Input‐to‐state practical stability for nonautonomous nonlinear infinite‐dimensional systems
Authors: Damak Hanen , Hammami Mohamed Ali , Heni Rahma
Published: March 2023

In this article, we are concerned with the input‐to‐state practical stability (ISpS) of nonautonomous nonlinear infinite‐dimensional systems. Sufficient conditions of ISpS are provided based on Lyapunov functions and a nonlinear inequality. We characterize ISpS in terms of uniform practical asymptotic gain property. We show that for a class of admissible inputs the existence of an ISpS‐Lyapunov function implies the ISpS of a system in Banach spaces. These results are used to study the input‐to‐state practical stability of a certain class of nonautonomous semilinear evolution equations. Furthermore, we provide a small‐gain theorem for nonautonomous nonlinear interconnected systems. An example is used to illustrate the application of the developed method.
Achieving regional sustainability and carbon neutrality target in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa economies: Understanding the importance of fiscal decentralization, export diversification and environmental innovation
Authors: Udeagha Maxwell Chukwudi , Muchapondwa Edwin
Published: March 2023

Reaching decarbonization goals has become a top focus for several industrialized and emerging economies globally. The greatest effect of human behavior is global warming. Utilizing fiscal decentralization (FDST), export diversification (EDI), and environment‐related technological innovation (ERTI) may be necessary to address global pollution and accomplish environmental sustainability goals. Additionally, these strategies could aid various levels of government and nations in pursuing what they define as sustainable development. This study evaluates the combined benefits of FDST, EDI and ERTI in meeting the environmental sustainability goals of the Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) economies from 1970 to 2020. Using the augmented mean group method, the long‐run dynamic equilibrium between the chosen variables is examined. The findings demonstrate that while the adoption of ERTI and renewable energy (REC) benefits the environment, EDI, FDST, and economic growth exacerbate environmental deterioration. Our findings suggest that the BRICS countries should proceed cautiously when adopting FDST and EDI plans. The adoption of ERTI and REC should be promoted by the government to increase environmental sustainability.
Self‐Assembled Construction of Robust and Super Elastic Graphene Aerogel for High‐Efficient Formaldehyde Removal and Multifunctional Application
Authors: Wang Wuyou , Zhao Xiaowen , Ye Lin
Published: March 2023

Simultaneously achieving exceptional mechanical strength and resilience of graphene aerogel (GA) remains a challenge, while GA is an ideal candidate for formaldehyde removal. Herein, flexible polyethyleneimine (PEI) is grafted chemically onto carbon nanotube (CNT) surface, and CNT‐PEI@reduced GA (rGA) is fabricated via hydrothermal self‐assembly, pre‐frozen, and hydrazine reduction process. Introducing CNT‐PEI contributes to well‐interconnected/robust 3D network construction by connecting reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets through enhancing cross‐linking, while entangled CNT‐PEI is intercalated into rGO layers to avoid serious restacking of sheets, producing larger surface area and more formaldehyde adsorption sites. Ultralight CNT‐PEI@rGA exhibits extreme high strength (276.37 kPa), reversible compressibility at 90% strain, and structural stability, while FA adsorption capacity reached 568.41 mg g‐1, ≈3.28 times of rGA, derivable from synergistic chemical‐physical adsorption effect. Furthermore, CNT‐PEI@rGA is ground into powder for first preparing polyoxymethylene (POM)/CNT‐PEI@rGA composite, while formaldehyde emission amount is 69.63%/73.96% lower than that of POM at 60/230 °C. Moreover, CNT‐PEI@rGA presents outstanding piezoresistive‐sensing and thermal insulation properties, exhibiting high strain sensitivity, wide strain detection range, and long‐term durability.
One‐Dimensional Covalent Organic Framework as High‐Performance Cathode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jia Chao , Duan An , Liu Chao , Wang Wen‐Zhuang , Gan Shi‐Xian , Qi Qiao‐Yan , Li Yongjun , Huang Xiaoyu , Zhao Xin
Published: March 2023

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as a new class of cathode materials for energy storage in recent years. However, they are limited to two‐dimensional (2D) or three‐dimensional (3D) framework structures. Herein, this work reports designed synthesis of a redox‐active one‐dimensional (1D) COF and its composites with 1D carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via in situ growth. Used as cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries, the 1D COF@CNT composites with unique dendritic core–shell structure can provide abundant and easily accessible redox‐active sites, which contribute to improve diffusion rate of lithium ions and the corresponding specific capacity. This synergistic structural design enables excellent electrochemical performance of the cathodes, giving rise to 95% utilization of redox‐active sites, high rate capability (81% capacity retention at 10 C), and long cycling stability (86% retention after 600 cycles at 5 C). As the first example to explore the application of 1D COFs in the field of energy storage, this study demonstrates the great potential of this novel type of linear crystalline porous polymers in battery technologies.
Lead‐Free Cesium Thulium Halide Perovskite Microcrystals for Near Ultraviolet Luminescence
Authors: Wu Chuanli , Qing Xiaofei , Lai Wenwei , Han Xiuxun
Published: March 2023

Lead halide perovskites attract tremendous research attention due to excellent optoelectronic properties. However, realizing efficient near ultraviolet (NUV) luminescence with these materials is still a big challenge. Herein, a novel rare‐earth perovskite cesium thulium chloride (CsTmCl3) with high crystallinity has been synthesized via a simple hot‐injection method. The obtained CsTmCl3 microcrystals have a size distribution of around 1–5 µm, and demonstrate a highly efficient NUV emission at 337 nm with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 68 nm. The determined band gap of CsTmCl3 microcrystals is ≈3.92 eV, which is supported by theoretical calculations. Moreover, a high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of up to 12% in NUV region has been achieved in such a lead‐free perovskite. The findings suggest that CsTmCl3 perovskite microcrystal is a promising low‐toxic material for applications in NUV optoelectronic devices.
Model‐checking‐driven explorative testing of CRDT designs and implementations
Authors: Zhang Yuqi , Huang Yu , Wei Hengfeng , Ma Xiaoxing
Published: March 2023

Internet‐scale distributed systems often replicate data at multiple geographic locations to provide low latency and high availability, despite node and network failures. According to the CAP theorem, low latency and high availability can only be achieved at the cost of accepting weak consistency. The conflict‐free replicated data type (CRDT) is a framework that provides a principled approach to maintaining eventual consistency among data replicas. CRDTs have been notoriously difficult to design and implement correctly. Subtle deep bugs lie in the complex and tedious handling of all possible cases of conflicting data updates. We argue that the CRDT design should be formally specified and model checked, to uncover deep bugs which are beyond human reasoning. The implementation further needs to be systematically tested. On the one hand, the testing needs to inherit the exhaustive nature of the model checking and ensures the coverage of testing. On the other hand, the testing is expected to find coding errors which cannot be detected by design level verification. Toward the challenges above, we propose the model‐checking‐driven explorative testing (MET) framework. At the design level, MET uses TLA+ to specify and model check CRDT designs. At the implementation level, MET conducts model‐checking‐driven explorative testing, in the sense that the test cases are automatically generated from the model‐checking traces. The system execution is controlled to proceed deterministically, following the model‐checking trace. The explorative testing systematically controls and permutes all nondeterministic choices of message reorderings. We apply MET in our practical development of CRDTs. The bugs in both designs and implementations of CRDTs are found. As for bugs which can be found by traditional testing techniques, MET greatly reduces the cost of fixing the bugs. Moreover, MET can find subtle deep bugs which cannot be found by existing techniques at a reasonable cost. Based on our practical use of MET, we discuss how MET provides us with sufficient confidence in the correctness of our CRDT designs and implementations.

Conflict‐free replicated data type (CRDT) is a framework that provides a principled approach to maintaining eventual consistency among data replicas in distributed systems. CRDTs have been notoriously difficult to design and implement correctly. We propose model‐checking‐driven explorative testing (MET) framework for dealing with such problem. We apply MET in our practical development of CRDTs. MET successfully finds subtle deep bugs and provides us with sufficient confidence in the correctness of our CRDT designs and implementations.
Removal of Remazol brilliant blue r and Remazol brilliant violet 5r dyes from aqueous solution by adsorption using coffee residue
Authors: Ismanto Aris , Sukmono Yudi , Hadibarata Tony , Yeow Peck Kah , Indrayanti Elis , Ismunarti Dwi Haryo , Handoyo Gentur
Published: March 2023

As a crucial ingredient for human and animal survival, clean water also contributes significantly to a nation's ever‐expanding economy. However, the availability of clean water has deteriorated as contaminants, such as dyes, have a significant detrimental effect on the pure and clean main waters. Coffee residue with micro‐ and macropores is a potential biosorbent for the removal of synthetic dyes from aqueous solutions. This study aims to determine the efficacy of adsorption of synthetic colors by coffee dregs. Using the Central Composite Design (CCD), the impacts of four adsorption factors (contact time, pH, starting concentration, and adsorbent dosage) were investigated (CCD). For the percent elimination of Remazol brilliant blue R (RBBR) and Remazol brilliant violet 5R, quadratic models were created (RBV‐5R). The ideal adsorption conditions consisted of a pH of 3, a dosage of 5 g of adsorbent, an initial concentration of 10 mg/L, and a contact period of 30 min for RBBR and 60 min for RBV‐5R, resulting in a removal of 49.98% and 93.8%, respectively. The experimental and projected values for RBBR were 96.57% and 95.2% for RBV‐5R, respectively, demonstrating high agreement with minimal errors. The Langmuir isotherm model fit the equilibrium adsorption data of the two selected dyes the best. In addition, the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model was able to better characterize the experimental data with good respective regression coefficients.
Assessment of the degree of rancidity on reused oils in university cafeterias, and public awareness
Authors: Lema Meserecordias W.
Published: March 2023

In this study, reused sunflower cooking oil was investigated for rancidity. Three student cafeterias at the University of Dodoma (UDOM) were used for this particular study. Oil samples were analyzed at the University of Dodoma laboratories. Results showed that all parameters were beyond permissible limits by WHO/FAO standards. Acid values ranged between 0.841 and 4.319 mg KOH/g oil, which is beyond the allowable limits by WHO/FAO (0.6 mg KOH/g oil). Peroxide values were found to be 19.5 mill eq O2/kg oil (minimum), and 62 mill eq O2/kg oil (maximum), which are both above the recommended limits by WHO/FAO (10 mill eq O2/kg oil). Iodine values were found to be from 102.87 to 48.26‐g I2/100 g oil, and were all beyond the recommended limits by WHO/FAO, of between 118‐ and 141‐g I2/100 g oil. The study has further revealed that the number of customers that are saved by the three cafeterias exceeds the capacity of the cafeterias. This study also found out that many students (almost 74%) are not aware on general knowledge about rancidity, including health effects of using rancid oils. It is therefore recommended to the national regulatory authorities to formulate strict regulations to guide and control oil rancidity.
Homogeneous–heterogeneous reactions for Maxwell nanofluid flow over an elongating cylindrical pipe via finite element method
Authors: AlBaidani Mashael M. , Lashin Maha M. A. , Saif Rai Sajjad , Ganie Abdul Hamid
Published: March 2023

Homogeneous–heterogeneous chemical reactions in simultaneous heat and mass transport for Maxwell fluid subjected to thermophoresis and Brownian motion are modeled and governing mathematical models are simplified using approximations proposed models are simplified using approximations proposed by Ludwing Prandtl. The simplified governing mathematical models under Buongiorno's theory are numerically solved via finite element method (FEM). The convergence and mesh free solution are solved for parametric study. The momentum relaxation phenomenon is the characteristic of liquid to restore its equilibrium state. Therefore, a remarkable reduction in the motion of fluid particles against an increase in Deborah number is noticed. A rise in temperature distribution is noticed when Brownian motion parameter is enhanced. The flow is decelerated as the curvature of the cylinder increases. As a consequence, the viscous region shrinks and its thickness becomes smaller. Hence, it is concluded that flow over flat surface has wider boundary layer region than the boundary layer region associated with flow over the cylindrical surface. The wall shear stress for the flow over a cylindrical object is higher than that for the flow over a flat surface. The wall heat and mass fluxes have an increasing tendency when the curvature parameter is increased. Wall heat flux and wall mass flux have opposite behavior due to rise in thermophorsis and Brownian motion effects.
From Forced Migration to the Forced Separation of Families
Authors: Tiilikainen Marja , Hiitola Johanna , Ismail Abdirashid A. , Palander Jaana
Published: March 2023

This chapter introduces the central conceptual and theoretical framework of the volume, which is the nexus between everyday security, forced migration and family separation. We discuss the problems with the term ‘refugee’ and justify everyday security as an approach. We then present the global and transnational scope of the book, which enables us to rebalance previous scholarship on families and migration. Finally, we provide a brief roadmap of the contents of the book.
‘Doing Family’ as a Separated Household: The Experience of Syrian Refugees in Germany and Lebanon
Authors: Tuzi Irene
Published: March 2023

This chapter investigates the impact of forced family separation upon displaced Syrians in Lebanon and Germany. It is guided by two main research questions: How do Syrian households in Lebanon and Germany deal with the everyday insecurities brought about by displacement? And how do theydo familyin separation? Based on 18 months of fieldwork conducted in Germany and Lebanon in 2018 and 2019, the chapter examines everyday insecurities and coping strategies to explore parallels in the way Syrian households in different regions navigate separation and do family from afar. The main results of the study indicate that Syrian refugees in two different geographical contexts use similar coping mechanisms to respond to the everyday insecurities caused by life in separation. In particular, people in separated households established new social networks, consolidated family relationships with left-behind family members, and reinforced their religious beliefs and practices. The findings also show that the idea of family has blurred boundaries and multiple dimensions for separated households, with Syrian refugees experiencing separation both spatially and temporally.
International Human Rights Frameworks in Relation to National Family Reunification Policy and Administrative Practice
Authors: Palander Jaana , Baraka Usumain , Gustafsson Hilda , Kvalvaag Alyssa Marie , Lokot Michelle , Martuscelli Patrícia Nabuco , Yaron Mesgena Hadas , Tuzi Irene , Wray Helena
Published: March 2023

This chapter gives an overview of the laws, policies and administrative practices that dictate family reunification in the countries discussed in this book, providing a frame of reference for considering specific questions of family separation in selected countries. First, we discuss the global and regional framework for international and human rights law. Brief country studies follow, focusing on the challenges forced migrants encounter with family reunification in Europe, the Americas and the Middle East: Sweden, Finland, Germany, the United States, Brazil, Israel, Jordan and Lebanon. The chapter concludes by bringing out aspects of migration policy that affect the enjoyment of family unity and the human right to respect for family life in these countries. We demonstrate that a variety of obstacles need to be overcome to have access to family reunification, reflecting the lack of clear rights to family reunification in international and human rights law. While some countries have legal restrictions in place, other countries have instituted administrative practices that prevent families from living together.
‘There Is No Family Here’: Refugees’ Strategies for Family Reunification in São Paulo
Authors: Martuscelli Patrícia Nabuco
Published: March 2023

Research on family reunification policies in the Global South is scarce, despite the fact that forced migratory movements are larger in the South than in the Global North. Brazil legally recognizes the right to family reunification for all migrants. Although the country has adopted a broad definition of family that recognizes relatives from the extended family, financial limitations require refugees to make choices about which family members to bring first. This chapter analyses their selection strategies based on 20 phenomenological, semi-structured interviews conducted with refugees mainly from Africa, in particular from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who applied for family reunification in São Paulo. I also employ quantitative data on refugees who applied for family reunification in Brazil between 2015 and 2018. Refugee narratives reveal five overlapping strategies used to select which family members to bring first. These strategies address the needs of family members both in the country of origin and in Brazil, namely, protection, health, finances, childcare and securing the future of the family. Hence, refugees in Brazil select family members for reunification not only because of close kinship ties, but also to improve everyday security.
‘Mum, I Sleep Under a Bridge’: Everyday Insecurities of the Families of Rejected Asylum Seekers in Somalia
Authors: Ismail Abdirashid A.
Published: March 2023

In this chapter, I examine the impact of prolonged family separation on the families of rejected Somali asylum seekers in Europe. The focus is on the everyday security of family members left behind in Somalia. During the past 10 years, many young people have migrated from Somalia as a result of socio-political developments in the Horn of Africa. Coupled with recent policy changes in Europe, these developments have significantly increased the time migrants spend in transit countries and in Europe as rejected asylum seekers, profoundly affecting the everyday life and wellbeing of their families in Somalia. The chapter draws on 42 semi-structured, in-depth individual interviews with family members of rejected Somali asylum seekers in Europe; the interviews were conducted in Somaliland and Puntland, Somalia, in March–April 2019 and January–February 2020. The findings show that family separation affects family members’ everyday security in Somalia through four broad dimensions of family life, namely, emotional, health-related, material and social dimensions. The chapter provides a unique translocal analysis that connects the effects of immigration policies in Europe to the everyday (in)securities of families in Somalia.
Introduction: Why We Need Stronger Unions in the Global Garment Industry
Authors: López Tatiana
Published: March 2023

For newly industrialising countries, the global garment industry is considered a vehicle for economic and social development, especially for increasing women’s participation in the labour market. At the same time, the garment industry has also been widely criticised for frequent labour rights violations, low wages and bad working conditions. Media and public discourses have focussed largely on private regulatory mechanisms and international labour standards as tools for promoting ‘decent work’ in the global garment industry. However, this chapter argues that lasting improvements for workers can only be achieved through the agency of strong local unions in garment producing countries. Against this background, this chapter introduces two central research questions that remain understudied in existing literature on labour in Global Value Chains (GVCs) and Global Production Networks (GPNs): (1) How do labour control regimes at specific nodes of the garment GPN shape and constrain the terrain for worker and union agency in garment producing countries? (2) Which relationships and interactions enable unionists and workers in garment producing countries to develop strategic capacities and power resources that allow them to shift the capital-labour power balance in favour of workers?
Asymptotic density of states in 2d CFTs with non-invertible symmetries
Authors: Lin Ying-Hsuan , Okada Masaki , Seifnashri Sahand , Tachikawa Yuji
Published: March 2023

Abstract

It is known that the asymptotic density of states of a 2d CFT in an irreducible representation ρ of a finite symmetry group G is proportional to (dim ρ)2. We show how this statement can be generalized when the symmetry can be non-invertible and is described by a fusion category $$ \mathcal{C} $$
C
. Along the way, we explain what plays the role of a representation of a group in the case of a fusion category symmetry; the answer to this question is already available in the broader mathematical physics literature but not yet widely known in hep-th. This understanding immediately implies a selection rule on the correlation functions, and also allows us to derive the asymptotic density.
Understanding the role of microhabitats in intertidal rock pools to guide future eco-engineering designs
Authors: Schaefer Nina , Mayer-Pinto Mariana , Johnston Emma L. , Dafforn Katherine A.
Published: March 2023

Intertidal rock pools support diverse assemblages. While there is much research on the importance of rock pools in supporting mobile diversity on rocky shores, there is limited knowledge regarding the role of physical features (microhabitats) within these habitats. Understanding the features of pools that support diversity is crucial to conserve and potentially mimic these important intertidal habitats in restoration projects. Here, we classified and quantified the types of physical features, hereafter “microhabitats” (overhangs and pits), within rock pools at different locations in and around a highly urbanised estuary, Sydney Harbour, Australia. The use of different microhabitats within rock pools by mobile macro-invertebrates was also examined in one location. We surveyed natural rock pools in summer (2 times) and winter (2 times) at seven sites: two sites from each of the inner and outer zones of Sydney Harbour, and three sites along the open coast of Sydney. We found that the type and size of microhabitats within pools decreased from the coastal towards inner harbour sites. Along the open coast, the richness of mobile taxa increased in rock pools with overhangs or pits. Only rock pools with overhangs had increased mobile abundances, likely driven by the gastropod Nerita melanotragus. Several species occurred in greater frequency in pools with overhangs. There was no effect of pits on abundances. This survey suggests that some microhabitats may play an important role in the diversity and abundance of mobile macro-invertebrates in rock pools. A detailed understanding of the local and regional scales of microhabitats should be used to inform eco-engineering of intertidal foreshores.
Periodic Lorentz gas with small scatterers
Authors: Bálint Péter , Bruin Henk , Terhesiu Dalia
Published: March 2023

We prove limit laws for infinite horizon planar periodic Lorentz gases when, as time n tends to infinity, the scatterer size $$\rho $$
ρ
may also tend to zero simultaneously at a sufficiently slow pace. In particular we obtain a non-standard Central Limit Theorem as well as a Local Limit Theorem for the displacement function. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first results on an intermediate case between the two well-studied regimes with superdiffusive $$\sqrt{n\log n}$$

n
log
n

scaling (i) for fixed infinite horizon configurations—letting first $$n\rightarrow \infty $$

n
→
∞

and then $$\rho \rightarrow 0$$

ρ
→
0

—studied e.g. by Szász and Varjú (J Stat Phys 129(1):59–80, 2007) and (ii) Boltzmann–Grad type situations—letting first $$\rho \rightarrow 0$$

ρ
→
0

and then $$n\rightarrow \infty $$

n
→
∞

—studied by Marklof and Tóth (Commun Math Phys 347(3):933–981, 2016) .
Hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 4B induces lipogenesis via the Hippo pathway
Authors: Zou Chen , Tan Hongxi , Zeng Jun , Liu Minqi , Zhang Guangping , Zheng Yi , Zhang Zhanfeng
Published: March 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes abnormal lipid metabolism in hepatocytes, which leads to hepatic steatosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV nonstructural protein 4B (NS4B) has been reported to induce lipogenesis, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this study, western blots were performed to investigate the effect of NS4B protein levels on key effectors of the Hippo and AKT signaling pathways. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein (Merlin) are effectors of the Hippo pathway. NS4B downregulated Merlin and phosphorylated YAP (p-YAP) protein expression while increasing the expression of the key AKT pathway proteins p-AKT and NF-κB. By observing the levels of AKT pathway proteins when Merlin was overexpressed or silenced, it was determined that Merlin mediates the AKT pathway. We suggest that HCV NS4B may mediate the AKT signaling pathway by inhibiting the Hippo pathway. Lipid droplets were observed in Huh7.5 cells overexpressing NS4B, and they increased significantly in number when Merlin was silenced. Overexpression of NS4B and Merlin silencing enhanced the expression of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs), which have been demonstrated to be key regulatory factors controlling fatty acid synthesis. NS4B and Merlin silencing also enhanced the in vitro proliferative capacity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In conclusion, NS4B induces lipogenesis via the effect of the Hippo-YAP pathway on the AKT signaling pathway and thereby plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of HCV-associated diseases.
Experimental verification of the intrinsic strainburst proneness of various rock types
Authors: Shi Lei , Li Charlie C. , Zhang Xiwei , Feng Xia-Ting
Published: March 2023

A portion of excess strain energy is converted into kinetic energy after the peak load in Class II rock. That is the intrinsic potential energy for strainburst. Therefore, the intrinsic strainburst proneness of the rock can be quantitatively assessed by the excess energy released from the rock, which can also be expressed by an intrinsic ejection velocity. This study aims to validate the idea of using the intrinsic ejection velocity as an index for the strainburst proneness of rock. Servo-controlled uniaxial compression tests were first conducted on 13 types of rocks. The intrinsic ejection velocities of rock specimens were assessed on the stress–strain curves. It was showed that the ejection velocity was greater than zero in twelve of the thirteen rock types, indicating that the twelve rock types were intrinsically prone to strainburst. The intrinsic ejection velocity was less than 5 m/s in eleven rock types, while up to 7.2 m/s in one. True triaxial tests were then conducted to examine the intensity of the bursting in six of the burst-prone rock types. The mass of the ejected rock fragments and the bursting sounds were recorded and analyzed afterward. The results showed that the orders of both the mass of the ejected rock fragments and the intensity of the bursting sounds were consistent with the order of the intrinsic ejection velocities of the rocks. It seems that the intrinsic ejection velocity is an appropriate index for the strainburst proneness of rock.
Radiofrequency antenna concepts for human cardiac MR at 14.0 T
Authors: Nurzed Bilguun , Kuehne Andre , Aigner Christoph Stefan , Schmitter Sebastian , Niendorf Thoralf , Eigentler Thomas Wilhelm
Published: March 2023

Objective

To examine the feasibility of human cardiac MR (CMR) at 14.0 T using high-density radiofrequency (RF) dipole transceiver arrays in conjunction with static and dynamic parallel transmission (pTx).

Materials and methods

RF arrays comprised of self-grounded bow-tie (SGBT) antennas, bow-tie (BT) antennas, or fractionated dipole (FD) antennas were used in this simulation study. Static and dynamic pTx were applied to enhance transmission field (B1+) uniformity and efficiency in the heart of the human voxel model. B1+ distribution and maximum specific absorption rate averaged over 10 g tissue (SAR10g) were examined at 7.0 T and 14.0 T.

Results

At 14.0 T static pTx revealed a minimum B1+ROI efficiency of 0.91 μT/√kW (SGBT), 0.73 μT/√kW (BT), and 0.56 μT/√kW (FD) and maximum SAR10g of 4.24 W/kg, 1.45 W/kg, and 2.04 W/kg. Dynamic pTx with 8 kT points indicate a balance between B1+ROI homogeneity (coefficient of variation < 14%) and efficiency (minimum B1+ROI > 1.11 µT/√kW) at 14.0 T with a maximum SAR10g < 5.25 W/kg.

Discussion

MRI of the human heart at 14.0 T is feasible from an electrodynamic and theoretical standpoint, provided that multi-channel high-density antennas are arranged accordingly. These findings provide a technical foundation for further explorations into CMR at 14.0 T.
Effect of Moringa Leaf Extract on the Performance of Lettuce Cultivars
Authors: Farooq Ahmad , Khattak Abdul Mateen , Gul Ghani , Habib Waqas , Ahmad Shahbaz , Asghar Muhammad , Rashid Tufail
Published: March 2023

Lettuce is an important crop that is grown commercially for salad purposes. To increase production of lettuce, synthetic fertilizers are applied. However, an excess of synthetic fertilizers is hazardous for the human body and also affects soil and environmental conditions. Alternative methods are available to enhance the production of lettuce, e.g., application of moringa leaf extract (MLE), which is also environmentally friendly. As MLE is a plant-based organic product, there are no side effects. The research was conducted at the Ornamental Nursery, Department of Horticulture, University of Agriculture Peshawar, during the 2020–21 season. The study was laid out in two-factor randomized complete block design in a split-plot arrangement with three replications. The two factors were MLE concentration (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8% v/v) and five lettuce cultivars (Red Laurel, Red Oakleaf, Milky White, Romaine, and Large Speed). Lettuce cultivars were sprayed with the required MLE concentrations at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after transplantation, while an extra application of MLE was given before bolting to the plants left for seed production. It was observed that lettuce cv. Red Laurel produced maximum fresh and dry head weight. Maximum plant height was recorded for cv. Red Oakleaf. Maximum leaves, head diameter, head height, root length, seed yield, and leaf area were noted in cv. Milky White. Cultivar Romaine took the maximum number of days to flowering and seed production. It also provided maximum chlorophyll content and the best taste. Moreover, MLE also had substantial effects on the growth and yield of lettuce cultivars. Here, maximum plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, head diameter, days to flowering, root length, head height, seed yield, days to seed production, chlorophyll content, and fresh and dry head weights were produced by plants sprayed with 8% (v/v) MLE. It is concluded that MLE, a useful growth promoter, has a considerable effect on the growth and development of lettuce cultivars and is thus recommended for organic production of the crop.
Ethical Climates Across National Contexts: A Meta-Analytical Investigation
Authors: Parboteeah K. Praveen , Weiss Matthias , Hoegl Martin
Published: March 2023

Ethical climates remain one of the most popular ways to assess the ethical orientations of companies. There has been a plethora of studies examining the relationship between ethical climates and critical outcomes, which was triggered by Victor and Cullen's seminal work published 35 years ago. After such a long period of strong research activity in this topic area, it is time to take stock of the accumulated empirical evidence. This meta-analytic review incorporates the considerations of alternative conceptualizations of ethical climates and integrates an international comparative perspective on the consequences of ethical climates. Given the state of the field, it is imperative to assess the tenability of the various relationships of ethical climate types across national contexts. As such, we first provide an update on how ethical climates are related to key organizational outcomes and assess how country-level factors affect the consequences of ethical climates. We present our findings along theoretical, empirical, and methodological issues, discuss the implications of our findings for extant research and provide suggestions for future research for each of the three avenues.
Do tropical climatic conditions reduce the effectiveness of nitrification inhibitors? A meta-analysis of studies carried out in Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Pablo Lacerda , Carlos Filipe Selau , Barth Gabriel , Mühling Karl H.
Published: March 2023

Extensive research has been performed into the effectiveness of nitrification inhibitors (NIs) in preventing N losses; however, tropical agriculture has been underrepresented in recent meta-analyses. Here, we apply a meta-analytic approach using data from 50 articles to identify the impact of NIs (DMPP, DCD, and DCD + NBPT) on crop yield, N2O emissions, soil NH4+ and NO3− concentrations, and NH3 volatilization in subtropical and tropical regions of Brazil. In addition, the survey includes information about location; climate zone; cultivated crops; soil pH; soil organic carbon; soil texture; experimental method; soil management; irrigation; fertilizer source, rate, and type; and NI type and rate. Overall, the data set showed that NIs increased crop yield and soil NH4+ concentrations by 3 and 60%, respectively, whereas N2O emissions and soil NO3− concentrations were reduced by 62 and 31%, respectively. Ammonia volatilization was not changed by NI application. However, the combination of a NI with a urease inhibitor decreased such losses by 39%. The effectiveness of the NIs was highest in irrigated fields, fine-textured soils, and mineral N sources. Moreover, NI performance in Brazil was found to be similar in tropical and subtropical climates, and was also comparable to values previously reported in meta-analyses, including those conducted in temperate climates. Therefore, NI application is indicated to be an efficient strategy to delay nitrification and mitigate N2O emissions in tropical agroecosystems.
Preservice Biology Teachers’ Socioscientific Argumentation: Analyzing Structural and Content Complexity in the Context of a Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Krell Moritz , Garrecht Carola , Minkley Nina
Published: March 2023

The present study analyzed the structural and the content complexity of 76 preservice science teachers’ socioscientific argumentation in the context of a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination. Data were analyzed within the methodological frame of qualitative content analysis. Concerning the structural complexity, the participants’ socioscientific argumentation reached a relatively high level (i.e., justifications with elaborated grounds). Concerning the complexity of content, the sample referred to science-, ethics-, society-, and politics-related arguments (i.e., almost the full range of content areas); however, on an individual level, participants referred to merely an average of two content areas. Regarding the relationship between structural and content complexity, a significant positive correlation was found. In sum, the results of this study suggest that preservice science teachers’ socioscientific argumentation is on a promisingly high level in terms of structural and on a medium level regarding content complexity. The findings are discussed and implications for science teacher education and assessment in science education are proposed.
Effect of seaweed extract on avocado root growth, yield and post-harvest quality in far north Queensland, Australia
Authors: Arioli Tony , Villalta Oscar N. , Hepworth Graham , Farnsworth Bill , Mattner Scott W.
Published: March 2023

Seaweed extracts are proven to increase productivity in many agricultural crops, but there is limited research on their use in avocado production. Therefore, we evaluated the effectiveness of a seaweed extract fromDurvillaea potatorumandAscophyllum nodosumon avocado yield, revenue and post-harvest fruit quality in a series of field experiments in Australia, and on seedling root growth in a pot experiment. The field experiments were conducted on commercial farms across three different locations in northern Queensland over four years and utilised avocado trees with different ages, cultivars (Hass and Shepard) and inoculum pressures fromPhytophthora cinnamomi. Results showed that the application of the seaweed extract by fertigation significantly improved avocado yield (kg fruit per tree) by 38%, fruit firmness by 4% (skin) and 22% (flesh) and fruit skin colour by 1° (hue), and an upgraded visual ripeness score. The increases in yield were associated with greater number of fruits per tree (up to 42%) indicating the liquid seaweed extract improved fruit set and retention per tree. Regular soil application of the seaweed extract to young trees (cv. Hass) in pots increased the root fresh weight by 22%. Overall, the regular application of the seaweed extract to avocado trees was found to be practical and economically viable for improving fruit production and post-harvest quality in Australian orchards.
Medulloblastoma in adults: evaluation of the Dutch society for neuro-oncology treatment protocol
Authors: Bleeker L. , Kouwenhoven M. C. M. , de Heer I. , Lissenberg-Witte B. I. , Gijsbers A. H. , Dubbink H. J. , Kros J. M. , Gijtenbeek J. M. M. , Kurt E. , van der Rijt C. C. D. , Swaak-Kragten A. T. , de Vos F. Y. , van der Weide H. L. , French P. J. , van den Bent M. J. , Wesseling P. , Bromberg J. E. C.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Medulloblastoma is a rare tumor in adults. The objective of this nationwide, multicenter study was to evaluate the toxicity and efficacy of the Dutch treatment protocol for adult medulloblastoma patients.

Methods

Adult medulloblastoma patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2018 were identified in the Dutch rare tumors registry or nationwide pathology database. Patients with intention to treat according to the national treatment protocol were included. Risk stratification was performed based on residual disease, histological subtype and extent of disease. All patients received postoperative radiotherapy [craniospinal axis 36 Gy/fossa posterior boost 19.8 Gy (14.4 Gy in case of metastases)]. High-risk patients received additional neoadjuvant (carboplatin-etoposide), concomitant (vincristine) and adjuvant chemotherapy (carboplatin-vincristine-cyclophosphamide) as far as feasible by toxicity. Methylation profiling, and additional next-generation sequencing in case of SHH-activated medulloblastomas, were performed.

Results

Forty-seven medulloblastoma patients were identified, of whom 32 were treated according to the protocol. Clinical information and tumor material was available for 28 and 20 patients, respectively. The histological variants were mainly classic (43%) and desmoplastic medulloblastoma (36%). Sixteen patients (57%) were considered standard-risk and 60% were SHH-activated medulloblastomas. Considerable treatment reductions and delays in treatment occurred due to especially hematological and neurotoxicity. Only one high-risk patient could complete all chemotherapy courses. 5-years progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for standard-risk patients appeared worse than for high-risk patients (PFS 69% vs. 90%, OS 81% vs. 90% respectively), although this wasn’t statistically significant.

Conclusion

Combined chemo-radiotherapy is a toxic regimen for adult medulloblastoma patients that may result in improved survival.