bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomic boundary‐aware explanation for convolutional neural networks in diagnostic radiology
Authors: Yuan Han
Published: December 2024

Background

Convolutional neural networks (CNN) have achieved remarkable success in medical image analysis. However, unlike some general‐domain tasks where model accuracy is paramount, medical applications demand both accuracy and explainability due to the high stakes affecting patients' lives. Based on model explanations, clinicians can evaluate the diagnostic decisions suggested by CNN. Nevertheless, prior explainable artificial intelligence methods treat medical image tasks akin to general vision tasks, following end‐to‐end paradigms to generate explanations and frequently overlooking crucial clinical domain knowledge.

Methods

We propose a plug‐and‐play module that explicitly integrates anatomic boundary information into the explanation process for CNN‐based thoracopathy classifiers. To generate the anatomic boundary of the lung parenchyma, we utilize a lung segmentation model developed on external public datasets and deploy it on the unseen target dataset to constrain model explanations within the lung parenchyma for the clinical task of thoracopathy classification.

Results

Assessed by the intersection over union and dice similarity coefficient between model‐extracted explanations and expert‐annotated lesion areas, our method consistently outperformed the baseline devoid of clinical domain knowledge in 71 out of 72 scenarios, encompassing 3 CNN architectures (VGG‐11, ResNet‐18, and AlexNet), 2 classification settings (binary and multi‐label), 3 explanation methods (Saliency Map, Grad‐CAM, and Integrated Gradients), and 4 co‐occurred thoracic diseases (Atelectasis, Fracture, Mass, and Pneumothorax).

Conclusions

We underscore the effectiveness of leveraging radiology knowledge in improving model explanations for CNN and envisage that it could inspire future efforts to integrate clinical domain knowledge into medical image analysis.
Comparison of clinical independence level scores among predoctoral dental students between dental school clinic and community clinic rotation
Authors: Shukla Anubhuti , Amrutham Vaishnavi , Albright Amanda
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the difference in the level of clinical independence among predoctoral dental students during their community clinic rotation with their dental school clinic rotations.

Methods

Descriptive statistics, assessment of sample normality, and T‐tests were performed to present the difference in average independence scale scores for the participants in each of the clinical disciplines at dental school clinical rotations and community rotations. The relative impact of each community clinical site was assessed to compare scores assigned at varying locations by different faculty.

Results

This study analyzed 222 dental students, including 29 from International Dental Program (IDP) and 193 traditional Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) students. Community clinic scores showed greater variability, with significantly higher scores in diagnostics and operative dentistry compared to school clinics, where higher scores were noted in endodontics and oral surgery. IDP students scored lower than traditional DDS students in school clinics but outperformed them in community settings. Community clinic scores showed greater variation between 2023 and 2024 compared to the smaller changes observed in dental school clinic scores.

Conclusions

This study highlights the impact of clinical setting, and duration on student procedural experience and performance, suggesting that varied clinical settings can enhance students' skills and readiness for practice. It reveals differences in DDS and IDP students' experiences due to prior training and potential evaluation biases. Study findings suggested lack of significant variance in the overall scores across different evaluators in community rotations. Future research should focus on refining evaluation metrics and better prepare students for practice.
A Review of MRI Acoustic Noise Outputs and Hearing Protection Device Performance
Authors: Steckner Michael
Published: December 2024

The acoustic noise outputs of MR equipment typically require a hearing protection device (HPD) to minimize the likelihood of patient hearing loss. Several different ways to quantify HPD performance have been developed and adopted over many years in different countries across the world (eg, NRR, SNR, SLC80). These HPD evaluations are done in controlled laboratory conditions, following different standardized methodologies, producing different performance ratings for the same HPD, and consequently of a variable relationship with achieved real‐world usage performance assessments. Conversely, the MR manufacturers follow one standard (NEMA MS‐4) which strives to produce a worst‐case peak and average acoustic noise output measurement. Measuring the acoustic output of MR equipment is a complex undertaking in the confined patient space, especially when considering the variability of what is in the patient imaging space. Given both the MR equipment acoustic output measurements and the HPD performance rating, it is theoretically possible to estimate the worst‐case patient exposure level, subject to the uncertainty of how successfully the protection was applied and population variability. An assessment, shown here, suggests that the worst‐case outputs from the loudest MR equipment requires the best passive HPD performance presently available in order to meet patient protection guidelines, but only when the HPD is properly deployed. However, when considering government agency derating recommendations that estimate protection achieved during practical application, the various metrics are not consistent in confirming that the best HPD provide sufficient protection. This paper reviews the challenges of determining and providing sufficient hearing protection. The correct deployment of HPD, and its verification, is thus a critical factor in ensuring adequate patient protection and the main concern of this review.

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 5
Beyond pink ribbons: The unmet needs of women with breast cancer
Authors: Feighan Laura , MacDonald‐Wicks Lesley , Callister Robin , Surjan Yolanda
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. The treatment options for breast cancer can cause side effects and adversely impact quality of life. Side effects, including fatigue, pain, cognitive changes, and psychosocial complications, can be life altering and continue beyond treatment into survivorship. Traditionally, health professionals focused almost entirely on achieving cancer survival; however, due to significant success in cancer treatment outcomes, most women now live beyond their breast cancer treatment. Consequently, addressing side effects and compromises in quality of life are becoming more important issues to include in a comprehensive approach to breast cancer treatment. For women, these unmet needs may involve body image concerns, sexual dysfunction, and other lifestyle challenges, and may not have previously been given sufficient recognition or priority. It is necessary for us, as oncology healthcare professionals, to modify our delivery of cancer care and ensure that more comprehensive care is provided to women. By addressing women's unmet needs, we can contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals regarding improving health and equality. This commentary seeks to emphasise the advantages of providing comprehensive care for women with breast cancer and advocates for cancer care professionals to actively participate in initiating and implementing this care.
Diagnostic Utility of Clinical Neurophysiology in Jerky Movement Disorders: A Review from the MDS Clinical Neurophysiology Study Group
Authors: Latorre Anna , Ganos Christos , Hamada Masashi , Phielipp Nicolas , Rocchi Lorenzo , Merchant Shabbir , Tijssen Marina A. , van der Veen Sterre , Chen Robert
Published: December 2024

Background

Myoclonus and other jerky movement disorders are hyperkinetic disorders, the diagnosis of which heavily relies on clinical neurophysiological testing. However, formal diagnostic criteria are lacking, and recently the utility and reliability of these tests have been questioned.

Objective

The aim of this review was to assess the utilization of clinical neurophysiology testing to identify possible gaps and boundaries that might guide the development of new methods for a more precise diagnosis and in‐depth understanding of myoclonus.

Methods

We reviewed electrophysiological features of cortical myoclonus, subcortical myoclonus (ie, myoclonus associated with dystonia, brainstem myoclonus), excessive startle reflex, spinal myoclonus (ie, spinal segmental and propriospinal myoclonus), peripheral myoclonus and mimics of myoclonus of peripheral origin (hemifacial spasm, minipolymyoclonus, myokymia), functional jerky movements, chorea, and tics.

Results

Electrophysiological features that support the recognition of myoclonus subtypes, such as muscle burst duration, muscle pattern of activation, measures of cortical excitability, or movement‐related cortical potentials, have been identified. These significantly contribute to the diagnosis of jerky movement disorders, but their reliability is uncertain. Despite the significant advancements, several unresolved questions persist. Factors contributing to this include the absence of systematic neurophysiological assessment and standardized methods, alongside the limited number of patients investigated using these techniques.

Conclusion

Although clinical neurophysiology remains the “gold standard” for defining and diagnosing myoclonus, our review highlighted the need to enhance the quality and reliability of neurophysiological testing in jerky movement disorders. Further studies including larger cohorts of patients recruited from different centers, employing standardized and optimized electrophysiological techniques, are warranted.
Key Regulators of Parasite Biology Viewed Through a Post‐Translational Modification Repertoire
Authors: Zhang Naiwen , Jiang Ning , Chen Qijun
Published: December 2024

Parasites are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals, imposing substantial socioeconomic burdens worldwide. Controlling parasitic diseases has become one of the key issues in achieving “One Health”. Most parasites have sophisticated life cycles exhibiting progressive developmental stages, morphologies, and host‐switching, which are controlled by various regulatory machineries including protein post‐translational modifications (PTMs). PTMs have emerged as a key mechanism by which parasites modulate their virulence, developmental transitions, and environmental adaptations. PTMs are enzyme‐mediated additions or removals of chemical groups that dynamically regulate the stability and functions of proteins and confer novel properties, playing vital roles in a variety of biological processes and cellular functions. In this review, we circumscribe how parasites utilize various PTMs to regulate their intricate lives, with a focus on the biological role of PTMs in parasite biology and pathogenesis.
A Content Analysis of Cancer‐Related Changes in Perceptions of Self, Relationships, and Health Among LGBTQI+ Cancer Survivors Across the Life Course: Findings From OUT: The National Cancer Survey
Authors: Waters Austin R. , Jones Shaun R. , Uppalapati Manuela , Gududuru Akshay , Bono Madeline H. , Hecht Hillary K. , Scout N. F. N. , Kent Erin E.
Published: December 2024

Background

The LGBTQI+ population makes up at least 7.6% of the US population. LGBTQI+ populations are at increased risk of experiencing LGBTQI+‐related discrimination and cis‐heteronormativity in healthcare leading to poorer health outcomes throughout the cancer care continuum. We aimed to explore LGBTQI+ cancer survivors' perspectives of how cancer has changed their perceptions of self and relationships using data from OUT: The National Cancer Survey.

Methods

We conducted an inductive qualitative content analysis of responses to four open‐ended questions from OUT: The National Cancer Survey. Data were collected from September 2020 to April 2021. Eligible participants were 18 years of age or older at time of survey, had been previously diagnosed with cancer, identified as LGBTQI+, and currently lived in the US. Open‐ended survey questions asked about the impact of cancer on LGBTQI+ cancer survivors' perceptions of self and relationships. To maximize inter‐rater reliability, 20% of the survey responses were double coded. Chi‐squared tests assessed differences in changes across the life‐course.

Results

Of the participants in the OUT survey (N = 2382), 86.9% (N = 2069) provided responses to at least one of the four open‐ended questions. The content analysis sample participants were primarily aged 40–59 (39.3%) and 60–79 (49.4%), gay (54.7%), cisgender men (59.4), White (89.7%), and not on active treatment (77.4%). A total of 5179 codes were applied to the 2069 responses. A total of 5 overarching categories and 18 sub‐categories were identified. Themes included: (1) changes in perceptions of self; (2) changes to relationships; (3) changes to health and (4) LGBTQI+ specific unmet needs. The most commonly reported categories were changes in perceptions of self (77%, n = 1593) and changes to health (47%, n = 972). Most cancer‐related changes were more frequently reported by young adult survivors.

Conclusions

This content analysis illuminates the unique challenges that the LGBTQI+ population faces while navigating through the cancer care continuum.
Morpholine Anchored Fluorogenic Toolkit: Unveiled Disease Allied Protein Fibrillation in Lysosomal Compartment of Live‐Cell and Drosophila Models
Authors: P. Kavyashree , Wilson Harry , Silswal Akshay , Mishra Lopamudra , Bhattacharya Debapriya , Mishra Monalisa , Koner Apurba Lal
Published: December 2024

The aberrant accumulation of cytotoxic protein aggregates is a hallmark of various neurodegenerative and non‐neurodegenerative ailments, necessitating the development of sensitive and selective tools for their detection. Herein, we report a series of morpholine‐anchored fluorescent probes, denoted as SC‐nmor (n = 2, 4, 6), designed for facile visualization of protein aggregates. These probes display notable changes in their photophysical properties upon binding with protein aggregates, owing to their high sensitivity to the fibrillar microenvironment. Specifically, the SC‐4mor probe demonstrates strong selectivity for aggregated insulin proteins over native insulin, accompanied by a significant enhancement in fluorescence lifetime. Live‐cell imaging reveals an exclusive localization at the lysosomal compartment. This feature enables the visualization of lysosomal accumulated protein fibrils induced with pepstatin A. Additionally, in vivo assessments on genetically mutated and dietary‐modified Drosophila melanogaster, representing neurodegenerative and non‐neurodegenerative disease models, demonstrate staining of protein aggregates. The enhanced emission from the eye lobes of Aβ‐mutated and HSD brain samples, suggesting that SC‐4mor can exhibit adequate retention in the brain with minimal biological toxicity. SC‐4mor also shows its capability to cross the blood–brain barrier in mice model. Consequently, SC‐4mor emerges as a promising marker for detecting and monitoring neurotoxic protein fibrillation in live cells and animal models, offering potential insights into the pathogenesis and progression of protein aggregation.
Localized Microrobotic Delivery of Enzyme‐Responsive Hydrogel‐Immobilized Therapeutics to Suppress Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Tian Mingzhen , Keshavarz Meysam , Demircali Ali Anil , Han Bing , Yang Guang‐Zhong
Published: December 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), characterized by its aggressive metastatic propensity and lack of effective targeted therapeutic options, poses a major challenge in oncological management. A proof‐of‐concept neoadjuvant strategy aimed at inhibiting TNBC tumor growth and mitigating metastasis through a localized delivery of chemotherapeutics is reported in this paper. This approach addresses the limitations in payload capacity and stimuli responsiveness commonly associated with microrobotics in oncology. A hydrogel‐based system is developed for the immobilization of chemotherapeutic agents, subsequently encapsulated within magnetically responsive microrobots. This design leverages external magnetic fields to facilitate the precise navigation and localization of the therapeutic agents directly to the tumor site. The efficacy of this approach is demonstrated in an animal model, in which a significant 14‐fold reduction in tumor size and suppression of metastasis to critical organs such as the liver and lungs are observed. Crucially, the drug release mechanism is engineered to be responsive to the tumor microenvironment and is regulated by the overexpression of the enzymatic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP2 and MMP9) in TNBC tumors, triggering the degradation of the hydrogel matrix, leading to controlled release of the immobilized therapeutic drug. This ensures that the therapeutic action is localized, reducing systemic toxicity and enhancing treatment efficacy. These findings suggest that this neoadjuvant approach holds promise for broader applications in other cancer types.
Zwitterion Interlocked Diarylethene Molecules Order, Unconnected Diarylethene Molecules Disorder
Authors: Wi Youngjae , Kang Dong‐Gue , Ko Hyeyoon , Oh Mintaek , Jang Junhwa , Rim Minwoo , Lee Kyung Min , Godman Nicholas P. , McConney Michael E. , Jeong Kwang‐Un
Published: December 2024

A diarylethene‐based zwitterionic molecule (DZM) is newly synthesized for the development of smart films exhibiting reversible color change and switchable ionic conductivity in response to external light stimuli. This dual molecular building block is constructed through zwitterionic interlocking and strong phase separation between the dendron‐shaped aliphatic tails and the diarylethene head. Uniaxial shear coating and molecular self‐assembly result in anisotropically oriented nanostructures, which are further solidified through photopolymerization. In the absence of zwitterionic interlocking, DZM fails to form ordered structures and remains disordered. The anisotropically oriented nanostructures of DZM exhibit polarization‐dependent photochromic properties despite the inherent low anisotropy of a single diarylethene chromophore. Structural analysis reveals that the zwitterion‐interlocked molecular building block self‐assemble into nanocolumns that align uniaxially during the shear coating process. Alternating ultraviolet and visible light reversibly switches the ionic conductivity of the DZM thin film and a change in color is observed due to the photoisomerization of the diarylethene chromophore. Utilizing the polarization‐dependent photochromic properties, light‐sensitive smart thin films are demonstrated with potential applications in anti‐counterfeiting labels and sensors.
A Corrected Score Function Framework for Modelling Circadian Gene Expression
Authors: Gorczyca Michael T. , McDonald Tavish M. , Sefas Justice D.
Published: December 2024

Many biological processes display oscillatory behaviour based on an approximately 24 h internal timing system specific to each individual. One process of particular interest is gene expression, for which several circadian transcriptomic studies have identified associations between gene expression during a 24 h period and an individual's health. A challenge with analysing data from these studies is that each individual's internal timing system is offset relative to the 24 h day‐night cycle, where day–night cycle time is recorded for each collected sample. Laboratory procedures can accurately determine each individual's offset and determine the internal time of sample collection. However, these laboratory procedures are labour‐intensive and expensive. In this paper, we propose a corrected score function framework to obtain a regression model of gene expression given internal time when the offset of each individual is too burdensome to determine. A feature of this framework is that it does not require the probability distribution generating offsets to be symmetric with a mean of zero. Simulation studies validate the use of this corrected score function framework for cosinor regression, which is prevalent in circadian transcriptomic studies. Illustrations with data from three circadian transcriptomic studies further demonstrate that the proposed framework consistently mitigates bias relative to using a score function that does not account for this offset.
Enhancing concrete sustainability with spent diatomaceous earth from the wine industry: Long‐term experimental and statistical analysis
Authors: Magalhães Leandro J. R. , Ferreira Débora Macanjo , Ramos‐Gavilán Ana Belén
Published: December 2024

Spent diatomaceous earth, a by‐product of wine filtration, holds significant promise for use in concrete mixtures due to its pozzolanic properties, which enhance concrete performance. This research explores the application of spent calcined diatomaceous earth (SCDE), heat‐treated at 700°C to remove organic content, as a partial substitute for cement or sand in concrete. The high silica content of SCDE contributes to the formation of additional calcium silicate hydrates during the hydration process, leading to improvements in mechanical strength over time. The study includes a preliminary analysis of cement replacements ranging from 5% to 10% and sand replacements from 2.5% to 15%, assessing their effects on workability, density, water absorption, and compressive strength at 7 and 28 days. The testing program focuses on three key compositions: the reference concrete and optimal mixtures with 10% cement and 5% sand replacements. Compressive strength tests are conducted at 7, 28, 90, 180, and 360 days. The results, validated through ANOVA, demonstrate the influence of SCDE on concrete strength over time, with distinctive behavior patterns identified for different mixtures. The strength of concrete with replacements correlates with the reference strength, with a multiplicative factor that varies from 7 to 90 days and then. When SCDE replaces cement, the factor is less than one before 28 days due to the slow pozzolanic reaction, whereas for sand replacement, it always exceeds one because of the initial filler effect. After 90 days, the strength multiplicative factors are 1.13 for cement replacement and 1.30 for sand replacement, demonstrating the potential of SCDE for sustainable concrete manufacturing and its positive long‐term impact on mechanical performance.
Creating a new way to judge the success of community college students
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: December 2024

Are community colleges producing better outcomes than they are typically given credit for? The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond thinks they are, and the independent research agency has created a new set of benchmarks to try to show these achievements.
Introduction to Part IV
Authors: Mosquera Irma
Published: December 2024

This Part addresses the reform of global governance that is currently taking place at international, regional, and domestic level. In this Part, attention is given to tax incentives, green transition, and to the design of new regional (i.e., Africa) and international (United Nations) governance structures.
Tax, Trade, and Investment for Green Transition
Authors: Tandon Suranjali
Published: December 2024

The carbon border adjustment levy by the EU is meant to address the issue of carbon leakage as a result of high carbon prices. The levy will come into effect in 2026 and therefore will impact trade with developing countries. The imposition of the levy will raise the costs to trade and have adverse economic consequences. This paper explores the implication that the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will have for developing countries and whether the levy works against the principle of common but differentiated responsibility enshrined in the Paris Agreement. At the same time, the international corporate tax reform limits the possibility for countries to offer tax incentives, which means if developing countries are to transition to green energy they would have to do so without the possibility of offering these incentives. Developing countries thus find themselves in a bind while making their low carbon transition. This paper covers the two aspects of a green transition.
Introduction to Part II
Authors: Chaisse Julien
Published: December 2024

The interconnected nature of the global economy ensures that there are no clear boundaries between the realms of tax, trade, and investment law. Instead, every nation state confronts a bewildering mix of policy choices across these regulatory areas as well as various constraints on the ability to achieve national policy priorities. Every cross-border business or investment decision accordingly involves navigating a web of overlapping regulatory regimes characterized as much by conflict as coordination.
GC–MS, 1H and 13C NMR, and physiochemical properties of oils of Dacryodes Edulis and Persea Americana
Authors: Eze J. C. , Nwadibia P. C. , Anyaogu D. I. , Abugu H. O. , Ejikeme P. M.
Published: December 2024

A comparative investigation was carried out on the seed oils of P. americana and D. edulis for their physiochemical properties and spectroscopic properties. Oils were extracted from the respective powdered seeds using Soxhlet extraction technique giving 18.63% and 45.49% yields for P. americana and D. edulis, respectively. The seed oils were subjected to physiochemical analysis using standard protocols as prescribed by the American Oil Chemist Society (AOCS) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The fatty acid content was determined using Gas Chromatography, Proton (1H) and Carbon-13 (13C) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy. The results indicates that linoleic acid is the most unsaturated fatty acid, while stearic acid is the most saturated fatty acid in both oils. Unsaturated fatty acid peaks for olefinic H were observed at 5.34 and 5.31 ppm for P. americana and at 5.43 and 5.32 ppm for D. edulis oils in 1H-NMR. For 13C-NMR, the presence of C with triple bond attached to an alkyl group was observed at 85 ppm for the P. americana, while similar peak was observed for D. edulis at 128.21 to 130.1 ppm. The chemical characterization of the oils gave iodine values of 51.86 mgI2/g for P. americana oil and 48.72 mgI2/g for D. edulis oil. Similarly, acid values of 3.45 mg KOH/kg and 5.76 mg KOH/kg were obtained for P. americana and D. edulis seed oils respectively. The physiochemical and spectroscopic results obtained showed that P. americana and D. edulis seed oils have the potential for use in a number of industrial applications.
Telemedicine in the Digital Era: Navigating the International Legal Landscape to Expand Global Healthcare Access
Authors: Qizi Yusupova Faringiz Uktam
Published: December 2024

The global healthcare landscape faces mounting challenges, from resource constraints and rural healthcare access in Uzbekistan, to aging populations and rising chronic disease rates in Europe. Amidst these, the digital transformation in healthcare and the study of international legal aspects governing telemedicine services have emerged as crucial priorities. This article examines the international legal framework for telemedicine, analyzing key documents of the United Nations (UN), World Health Organization (WHO), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and various regional bodies. It highlights the absence of a universal agreement that comprehensively addresses telemedicine regulation and data protection issues. The article explores national regulatory efforts and identifies gaps in the current fragmented approach. Recommendations include establishing a dedicated subsidiary body under the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) to oversee telemedicine-related matters and codifying scattered norms into a coherent framework. Strengthening the international legal basis for telemedicine can help expand access to vital healthcare services and improve global health outcomes.
Print media and egalitarianism in 1960s Eswatini: Izwi lama Swazi and the columnist ‘Kadebona’
Authors: Cabrita Joel
Published: December 2024

From 1950 to 1963, a columnist named ‘Kadebona’ (The Experienced One) published regular pieces in Izwi lama Swazi (The Voice of the Swazi), the vernacular newspaper of the British protectorate of Swaziland (now named Eswatini). Although lacking definitive evidence, it is probable that Kadebona was John J. Nquku, a leading political figure of colonial Eswatini. Kadebona’s 300-plus columns positioned themselves as meeting places for the embryonic Swati nation. In contrast to the closed-door discussions of those in power, Kadebona’s columns styled themselves as transparent platforms for a give-and-take debate among emaSwati (as residents of Eswatini were called). Kadebona not only ‘spoke’ via his columns; he also expected replies on the part of the nation. His column was a space available to all, ‘where the rich and the poor, and where leaders and their followers, all meet’. In a period of debate over the future of the independent Swati nation, Kadebona’s columns encouraged all emaSwati to shape their country, and allowed all perspectives audibility via the column and ‘Letters to the Editor’. At the same time, however, there were distinct limits to the egalitarian public summoned through these articles. While Kadebona encouraged all emaSwati regardless of rank or class to speak up, he was far less welcoming towards other voices, including women and youths. This article provides an introduction to these fraught columns, a small sample of which are presented here, both in their isiZulu original and in English translation (siSwati – the language spoken by emaSwati – had no authorized written form well into the 1960s; instead, the South African isiZulu was used for written communication). In what follows, I provide Izwi lama Swazi’s history, discuss the emergence of Kadebona as a columnist in the 1950s, and comment on some of his key concerns.
Ideals of equations for elements in a free group and Stallings folding
Authors: Ascari Dario
Published: December 2024

Let

$H\le F$

be two finitely generated free groups. Given

$g\in F$

, we study the ideal

$\mathfrak I_g$

of equations for g with coefficients in H, i.e. the elements

$w(x)\in H*\langle x\rangle$

such that

$w(g)=1$

in F. The ideal

$\mathfrak I_g$

is a normal subgroup of

$H*\langle x\rangle$

, and it’s possible to algorithmically compute a finite normal generating set for

$\mathfrak I_g$

; we give a description of one such algorithm, based on Stallings folding operations. We provide an algorithm to find an equation in w(x)\in

$\mathfrak I_g$

with minimum degree, i.e.  such that its cyclic reduction contains the minimum possible number of occurrences of x and x−1; this answers a question of A. Rosenmann and E. Ventura. More generally, we show how to algorithmically compute the set Dg of all integers d such that

$\mathfrak I_g$

contains equations of degree d; we show that Dg coincides, up to a finite set, with either

$\mathbb N$

or

$2\mathbb N$

. Finally, we provide examples to illustrate the techniques introduced in this paper. We discuss the case where

${\text{rank}}(H)=1$

. We prove that both kinds of sets Dg can actually occur. We show that the equations of minimum possible degree aren’t in general enough to generate the whole ideal

$\mathfrak I_g$

as a normal subgroup.
Does the Orthodox tradition have anything to contribute to analytic theology?
Authors: Cuneo Terence
Published: December 2024

A prominent challenge to analytic theology charges that its methodology leads to idolatry. This article explores a response to this challenge that draws upon the Eastern Orthodox apophatic tradition. Apophatic approaches, which emphasize how little we can truthfully say or know about God, are not exclusive to Orthodox Christianity. But these views take a unique form within the tradition insofar as they accord a prominent role to the distinction between God’s essence and God’s energies. The divine essence is what it is to be God, what God is as such, what God is at God’s core. In contrast, the divine energies are properties, modes, or activities of God not included in the divine essence but intimately related to it. Proponents of the distinction have claimed that it can help theorists to navigate the Christian tradition’s cataphatic and apophatic commitments, which don’t always sit comfortably together. This article argues that there are ways of crafting the essence/energy distinction that can also help to address the ‘Idolatry Argument’ against analytic theology.
Hope in a paranoid place? Critique, utopianism and prefigurative policy reform
Authors: Hewer Rebecca , Collier Ben
Published: December 2024

We are living through cruel and frightening times. How should a progressive policy studies respond? Critique undoubtedly plays a role: the task of exposing the structural conditions, political interests and power asymmetries that lie beneath the ‘prosaic surface’ of policy is an urgent one. But are these primarily deconstructive efforts enough? Can they lead us out of this quagmire, alone? In this article, we argue that something additional – something more generative and hopeful – is also required. In response, we introduce ‘critical utopian policy analysis’ (CUPA) a methodological elaboration of critical policy analysis (CPA) designed to support its use in both deconstructive and reconstructive policy efforts. This approach builds on the theoretical offerings of critical policy analysis, utopianism and prefiguration, to posit a methodological embrace of critique, imagination, enactment and play. It seeks to mobilise a complex nexus of affect – including heartbreak and hope – to motivate and support a range of intellectual undertakings and emancipatory politics.
A six-year epidemiological study of selected zoonotic abortifacient agents in ovine and caprine foetuses in Türkiye
Authors: Şevik Murat
Published: December 2024

Abortion is one of the major threats to the livestock industry, and it also poses significant threats to public health since some of the abortifacient agents are considered zoonotic. Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus), Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii), Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), and Cache Valley virus (CVV) are recognized as important zoonotic and abortifacient agents of reproductive failure in small ruminants. This study determined the prevalence of these agents in ovine and caprine foetuses in Türkiye. A total of 1 226 foetuses were collected from the sheep (n = 1 144) and goats (n = 82) from different flocks between 2012 and 2017. Molecular detection methods were used to detect C. abortus, C. burnetii, and L. monocytogenes DNA and CVV RNA in aborted foetuses. In this study, C. abortus was the most prevalent abortifacient agent among the investigated ovine (264/1144) and caprine (12/82) foetuses, followed by C. burnetii with a frequency of 2.8% (32/1144) and 8.5% (7/82) in ovine and caprine foetuses, respectively. L. monocytogenes DNA was detected in 28 (2.4%) and 2 (2.4%) of the ovine and caprine foetuses, respectively. However, CVV RNA was not detected. Although the predominant mixed infection was C. abortus and C. burnetii, mixed infection of C. abortus and L. monocytogenes, and C. burnetii and L. monocytogenes were also found. The information presented in this study contributes to the understanding of the roles of C. abortus, C. burnetii, L. monocytogenes, and CVV in abortions in small ruminants, and could be beneficial for developing more effective control strategies.
Decoding Higgs Boson Branching Ratios from event shapes
Authors: Reichelt Daniel
Published: December 2024

This contribution will discuss a novel strategy for the simultaneous measurements of Higgs boson branching ratios into gluons and light quarks at a future lepton collider, operating in the Higgs-factory mode. The method is based on template fits to global event-shape observables, and in particular fractional energy correlations, thereby exploiting differences in the QCD radiation patterns of quarks and gluons. This approach is orthogonal to measurements based on traditional tagging methods based mainly on displaced vertices and allows for an extraction of limits on both Higgs boson to gluon- and light quark branching ratios separately. Additionally, state-of-the-art calculations for the relevant observables are commented on.
Impact of longitudinally and transversely polarized beams on probing CP-violating HZZ interactions at the ILC
Authors: Li Cheng , Moortgat-Pick Gudrid
Published: December 2024

We study possible CP-violation effects of the Higgs to Z-boson coupling at a future e+e− collider, e.g. the International Linear Collider (ILC). We find that the azimuthal angular distribution of the muon pair, produced by e+e− → HZ → Hµ+µ−, can be sensitive to such a CP-violation effect when the initial beams are transversely polarized. Based on this angular distribution, we construct a CP sensitive asymmetry and obtain this asymmetry by Whizard simulation. By comparing the SM prediction with 2σ range of this asymmetry, we estimate the limit of the CP-odd coupling in the HZZ interaction.
CP violation of the loop induced H± → W±Z decays in the general two Higgs doublet model*
Authors: Mura Yushi , Kanemura Shinya
Published: December 2024

New sources of CP violation are necessary to solve the problem of the baryon asymmetry of the Universe. Extending the Higgs sector is one way to introduce such new CP violating phases, and studying observables resulting from the CP violation is important to test the model in future experiments. In these proceedings, we discuss the loop induced H±W±Z vertices in the CP violating general two Higgs doublet model, summarizing our results [1]. We evaluate impacts of the CP violation on the decays H± → W±Z through these vertices, and find that the difference between the decays H+ → W+Z and H− → W−Z is sensitive to the CP violating phases in the model.
The alignment of the accelerator modules of the Cool Copper Collider C3 with the Rasnik 3-point alignment system
Authors: van der Graaf Harry , van Bakel Niels , Bouwens Bram , Breidenbach Martin , Haase Andrew , van Heijningen Joris , Koushik Anoop Nagesh , Nanni Emilio , du Pree Tristan , van Remortel Nick , Vernieri Caterina
Published: December 2024

For C3, some 2000 accelerator modules must be 5D positioned, within 10 µm transversal, on a 2.3 km long straight line, for both linacs. In the Rasnik alignment system, light from a point-like monochromatic source falls on a zone lens, forming a Fraunhofer diffraction pattern on an image pixel sensor. The alignment of three objects can be obtained by analyzing the position of the diffraction pattern on the sensor. The alignment of a large number of objects can be realized by fixing a stick on each object, carrying all three Rasnik components. With this leap frog geometry, all sticks are mutually coupled, forming a multipoint alignment system.

The system should operate in ambient air, in vacuum, and in liquid nitrogen. Due to the heat dissipation of these components, bubbles are formed, causing an error in the measured alignment when crossing the optical path. Various methods of beam shielding are presented. With the Quarter Cryo Module (QCM), essential studies will be carried out, enabling the realization of C3. The QCM will be equipped with four Rasnik chains, measuring alignment parameters with redundancy. In addition, the bubble-induced vibrations of the accelerator components can be registered accurately.
Design and experimental verification of the picking cam mechanism for safflower filaments
Authors: Chen Bangbang , Ding Feng , Ma Baojian , Liu Xiangdong , Ning Shanping
Published: December 2024

A picking head for automated harvesting of safflower filaments is designed to address the low manual harvesting efficiency and scarce automatic harvesting machinery. Based on the cluster growth characteristics of safflower filaments and the requirements for filament harvesting, the key structures and parameter ranges of the “∞”-shaped cam and cutting tools are established. Using ANSYS/LS-DYNA simulation analysis, the effects of the blade edge angle, cutting inclination, and cutting speed on the mechanical properties during filament cutting are explored. After that, a safflower filament picking head cutting test bench is built. Using the Central Composite Design method, a regression model between different test factors and indicators is established, and the response surface analysis and parameter optimization are performed for the interacting factors. The optimal parameters are a cam rotational speed of 32.6 r/min, a blade edge angle of 22.5°, and a cutting inclination of 19.6°. Five repeated bench tests are conducted using these parameters for verification. The experiments show that the average success rate of cutting filaments is 90.5%, and the error between the experimental and theoretical optimal values does not exceed 2.5%. The optimization model is reasonable and feasible, meeting the design requirements of the cutting of the safflower filament picking head. The results can provide a reference for the design and development of automated safflower harvesting devices.
Phonon spectroscopy in heterocontacts
Authors: Shekhter R. I. , Kulik I. O.
Published: December 2024

Nonlinear effects in the electrical conductivity of point contacts between metals having different elastic scattering lengths (li) and different electron spectrum characteristics are investigated. The intensity of the point contact spectrum for a pure-impure metal junction is of the same order of magnitude as that for a contact between two metals in the diffusion limit (li < d, where d is the junction diameter) . In the presence of electron groups with different Fermi momenta (pF1≫ pF2), electron focusing effects may occur which lead to the selection of the phonons being generated according to their energies .
Soliton solutions of an equation of nonlinear magnetic dynamics
Authors: Borisov A. B. , Kiselev V. V. , Taluts G. G.
Published: December 2024

Explicit many-soliton solutions are found for a phenomenological equation of magnetic dynamics, describing, in particular, the nonlinear dynamics of noncollinear antiferromagnets and an isotropic ferrimagnet with two nonequivalent sublattices. We consider one-soliton solutions, describing the localized magnetization wave and its interaction with a spin wave. It is shown that many-soliton solutions obey the asymptotic superposition principle.
Kinetic coefficients in anisotropic superconductors containing impurities
Authors: Bezzub O. P. , Palistrant M. E.
Published: December 2024

The thermoelectric coefficient ηs and the coefficient of electronic thermal conductivity Ks in superconductors containing paramagnetic impurities near the electronic topological transition are calculated. The case when a flat section appears on the Fermi surface is examined. It is proved that in such a system the relation ηs/ηn = Ks/Kn is satisfied. It is shown that in superconductors the thermoelectric effect is amplified by several orders of magnitude due to the electronic topological transition and, in addition to this transition, there is an amplification due to exchange scattering of electrons by impurities. It is pointed out that the additional magnetic flux ΦT (related to the temperature gradient) can be increased by several orders of magnitude in a superconducting bimetallic ring. The ratios δ = ηs/ηn = Ks/Kn and the order parameter Δ/Δ0 are investigated as functions of pressure, impurity concentration, and temperature.
Vector potential induced diamagnetism and flux quantization in normal metals
Authors: Bogachek É. N. , Kulik I. O.
Published: December 2024

It is shown that the diamagnetic susceptibility of a single crystal with a cylindrical cavity contains terms that, as functions of the flux Φ = HS (S is the cross section of the cavity) penetrating into the cavity, oscillate with period Φ0=hc/e. A similiar effect is produced in the presence of an external magnetic field by a solenoid placed in the cavity. In this case the oscillating magnetic moment is, in order of magnitude, equal to (Φ0/HR02)MDHVAosc, where MDHVAocs is the oscillating component of the de Haas–van Alphen magnetic moment and R0 is the sample dimension.
Effect of concentration and morphology of the normal phase on flow stress in superconductors
Authors: Dotsenko V. I. , Sirenko V. A.
Published: December 2024

The dependence of the flow stress on the concentration of the normal phase in superconductors is obtained. The significant differences discovered in these dependences for type I and II superconductors are attributed to differences in the morphology of the normal phase.
Metal–insulator transition in needle crystals of compounds based on niobium and sulfur doped with iodine and oxygen
Authors: Obolenskiĭ M. A. , Beletskiĭ V. I. , Balla D. D. , Chashka Kh. B.
Published: December 2024

Needle crystals based on niobium and sulfur doped with iodine and oxygen were synthesized. The temperature dependence of the electrical resistance in the region 4.2–300 °K and the I–V curve of the crystals in the region 4.2–5 °K were investigated experimentally. A metal-insulator transition was observed. In the temperature range above Rmin, the conductivity is metallic and is described by the dependence In R ∼ T. For temperatures below Rmin, the conductivity is semiconductive. In the region of the semiconducting state, the I–V curve is considerably nonlinear.
Magnetic properties of porous superconductors in strong magnetic fields (H ≳ Hc2)
Authors: Rud'ko V. N. , Sugakov V. I.
Published: December 2024

The properties of superconducting regions localized near vacancy voids in type II superconductors in magnetic fields exceeding the second critical field are studied. The dependence of the upper critical field Hc3(R), at which such regions arise, on the void radius is found. This dependence is nonmonotonic; as the void radius increases, the amplitude of the oscillations decreases, while Hc3(R) approaches the value of Hc3 for a flat surface. The magnetic moment, related to the appearance of superconducting regions, likewise depends nonmonotonically on the magnetic field intensity. It is shown that in the range of magnetic fields studied (Hc2 < H < Hc3(R)), a large diamagnetic effect should be observed in real superconductors with voids.
The Green Heart Project: Objectives, Design, and Methods
Authors: Bhatnagar Aruni , Keith Rachel , Yeager Ray , Riggs Daniel , Sears Clara , Bucknum Brent , Smith Ted , Fleischer Daniel , Chandler Chris , Walker Kandi L , Hart Joy L , Srivastava Sanjay , Turner Jay , Rai Shesh
Published: December 2024

The Green Heart Project is a controlled, community-based clinical trial to evaluate the effects of increasing greenery on community health. The study was initiated in 2018 in a low-to-middle-income residential area of nearly 30,000 racially diverse residents in Louisville, KY. Community engagement was maintained throughout the project, with feedback integrated into its design and implementation. Based on land use, demographics, and greenness in the area, we designated 8 paired clusters of demographically- and environmentally matched “target” (T) and adjacent “control” (C) areas (total of 16 clusters). Levels of ultrafine particles, ozone, and nitrogen oxides were measured in each cluster. In-person exams were conducted for 735 participants in Wave 1 (2018-2019) and 545 participants in Wave 2 (2021). Blood, urine, nail, and hair samples were collected to evaluate cardiovascular risk, inflammation, stress, and pollutant exposure. Demographic and psychosocial data were collected as well. Cardiovascular function was assessed by measuring arterial stiffness and flow-mediated dilation. After Wave 2, more than 8,000 mature, mostly evergreen, trees and shrubs were planted in the T clusters. Post planting data were collected during Wave 3 (2022) from 561 participants. We plan to follow changes in area characteristics and participant health to evaluate the long-term impact of the greening intervention.