bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Wind Deviation Characteristics of Y‐Type Insulator String under the Action of Strong Wind
Authors: Wang Xianren , Yang Chuiwei , Zhang Jiaqian , Zhou Junyu , Liang Hangzhang , Jiang Jing , Cai Yonghui , Huang Mojia , Lan Zhiwen
Published: February 2024

Under the action of extreme wind load, the overhead transmission line will generate a wind deflection flashover phenomenon, which seriously affects the normal operation of the transmission system and causes significant losses. Y‐type insulator string (hereinafter referred to as Y‐string) is an optimized structural form to reduce the wind deflection flashover in windy areas, and the dynamic mechanical characteristics of Y‐string under the action of pulsating wind is an important factor that influences the design of the overhead transmission line. The calculation method of pulsating wind load and the static calculation method of wind deflection displacement of Y‐string are obtained through theoretical derivation. The mathematical software is used to simulate the time course of pulsating wind speed and convert it into the time course of wind load, establish the finite element model of insulator string, simulate and analyze the wind deflection process of Y‐string under the action of pulsating wind by using the finite element method, and calculate the horizontal displacement of Y‐string under the excitation of pulsating wind and make a comparative analysis with the results of the static calculations. The results show that the wind deflection displacement of the Y‐string under pulsating wind is 1.12–1.28 times that under steady‐state wind, which reveals the reason for the wind deflection flashover phenomenon and provides theoretical references for the design and improvement of overhead transmission lines.
Biodiversity and Structural Analysis of Woody Plant Species of Home Gardens in Basona Worana District, North Shoa Zone of Central Ethiopia
Authors: Woldeyohannes Almaz , Moges Admasu
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the biodiversity and structure of woody plants of HGs in the Basona Worana district (BWD). For this, six kebeles and 138 HGs from three agroecologies of BWD were selected using various sampling techniques. The plot size used per HG was 400 m2. Diversity and important value indices (IVIs) were computed. For their structural analysis, the diameter at breast height (DBH) and height were also measured for trees and shrubs fulfilling the standards (diameters at breast height (DBH) ≥2.5 cm and height >2 m). Thus, a total of 42 woody species belonging to 37 genera and 26 families were identified. Fabaceae was the most abundant family, followed by Euphorbiaceae. Trees were the dominant habit. The richness in Kola HGs (33) was higher than Dega (14) and Woinadega (19) HGs, with an overall mean richness of 4.14 per HG of BWD. The Shannon, Simpson, and evenness indices for HGs in the district were 1.05, 0.55, and 0.75, respectively, showing their moderate diversity with even distribution. The Sorenson’s similarity of HGs between Dega and Woinadega, Kola and Dega, and Kola and Woinadega were 40%, 28%, and 32%, respectively. The multiple site similarities of woody species among three ecological zones (36%) were still <50%, showing no similarity. The overall DBH and height classes’ patterns of the woody species individuals abruptly decreased towards their highest classes. Similar DBH and height classes’ patterns of woody species individuals were also observed in Kola and Woinadega agroecologies, indicating their selective tree cutting. The mean values of DBH, height, basal, and crown areas of the woody species in the district were ∼14 cm, ∼6 m, ∼29 m2·ha−1, and 5 m2, respectively. Based on IVI, most of the HGs were dominated by Eucalyptus globules (93.35), followed by Eucalyptus camaldulensis (45.04), Rhamnus prinoides (22.4), and Cupressus lusitanica (22.33). Hence, actions should be taken to promote the diversity and managing of HGs’ woody species of BWD.
Sol–Gel Synthesis of Nanostructured Mesoporous Silica Powder and Thin Films
Authors: Emrie Dessie Belay
Published: February 2024

Mesoporous materials are special nanoporous materials containing well-defined mesochannels with a pore diameter between 2 and 50 nm. The high surface area, ordered structure, tunable pore size, and easiness of functionalization have made mesoporous silica powder and thin films interesting materials for a wide range of applications including drug delivery, absorption, separation, catalysis, energy conversion, and storage. The sol–gel process has emerged as a promising technique for the synthesis of nanostructured mesoporous silica materials as it provides the advantages of low-temperature processing and easy control of the synthesis parameters. Although it offers several advantages over other synthesis techniques, it also has the drawbacks of high sensitivity to processing conditions. Hence, this review paper aims to give critical insights into the sol–gel process, the chemistry of sol–gel silica, the formation mechanism of mesoporosity, and the effects of the reaction parameters. A good understanding of these phenomena is essential to better control and optimize the properties of the final material for specific needs and applications. Additionally, this review paper discusses the different methods applied to the synthesis of nanostructured ordered mesoporous thin film silica, including the Electrochemically Assisted Self-Assembly method of synthesis. The EASA method is a novel and promising technique for the synthesis of well-ordered and vertically aligned pore channels of mesoporous thin films as it is required for mass transport applications. Moreover, the effects of sol composition, pH, applied potential, and deposition time on the final thickness of the thin film are elaborated on in detail. Furthermore, this comprehensive review highlights the potential and opportunities for future research and development in the area to further advance and use its full potential advantages.
PA-YOLO-Based Multifault Defect Detection Algorithm for PV Panels
Authors: Yin Wang , Jingyong Zhao , Gang Xie , Zhicheng Zhao , Xiao Hu
Published: February 2024

In recent years, solar photovoltaic (PV) energy, as a clean energy source, has received widespread attention and experienced rapid growth worldwide. However, the rapid growth of PV power deployment also brings important challenges to the maintenance of PV panels, and in order to solve this problem, this paper proposes an innovative algorithm based on PA-YOLO. First, we propose to use PA-YOLO’s asymptotic feature pyramid network (AFPN) instead of YOLOv7’s backbone network to support direct interactions of nonadjacent layers and avoid large semantic gaps between nonadjacent layers. For the occlusion problem of dense targets in the dataset, we introduce a repulsive loss function, which successfully reduces the occurrence of false detection situations. Finally, we propose a customized convolutional block equipped with an EMA mechanism to enhance the perceptual and expressive capabilities of the model. Experimental results on the dataset show that our proposed model achieves excellent performance with an average accuracy (mAP) of 94.5%, which is 6.8% higher than YOLOv7. In addition, our algorithm also succeeds in drastically reducing the model size from 71.3 MB to 48.4 MB, which well demonstrates the effectiveness of the model.
Material Point Method‐Based Simulation of Run‐Out Characteristics for a Soil–Rock Mixed Landslide Induced by Surcharge
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhang Fan , Yi Qingbo , Jiang Guanzhu , Xie Juncheng
Published: February 2024

Surcharge loading on slopes is a prevalent engineering practice that can precipitate landslides, posing significant risks to construction integrity and safety. This study elucidates the impact of surcharge loading on mixed soil–rock slopes and benchmarks their response against that of pure soil slopes under analogous loading conditions. Investigating damage manifestations, this research quantifies the distribution of plastic zones, the morphological alterations of slopes at characteristic stages, the dynamics of slip velocity at monitoring points, and the extent of landslide run‐out. The material point method is adopted for its proficiency in simulating large deformation scenarios. Two‐dimensional models of a representative soil–rock mixed slope and a pure soil slope are meticulously crafted using digital image processing techniques. The distinct damage profiles exhibited by the mixed and pure soil slopes are compared. The comparative assessment elucidates the distinct damage patterns of different slopes, enhancing the understanding of their behavior under variable surcharge intensities and contributing to the discourse on slope stability assessments.
Examining the Outcomes of Hybrid Coronary Revascularization in Acute STEMI Patients from 2015 to 2022
Authors: Bahramian Mozhgan , Moezi bady Seyed Ali , Bahramian Maryam , Amouzeshi Ahmad
Published: February 2024

Background. The global rise of chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular disease (CVD), poses a significant public health challenge, being a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In Iran, the surge in CVD incidence and its risk factors, along with a decrease in the age of onset, has notably increased the reliance on coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) as a life-saving intervention. Staged hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR), which combines percutaneous coronary intervention with delayed CABG, offers a novel approach for patients with complex coronary artery disease, potentially improving survival and reducing complications. Considering the newness of this treatment method and the limitations of previous studies, we investigated the results of staged HCR in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients in this study. Methods. This observational study was performed on consecutive patients with acute STEMI who underwent staged HCR and were referred to Valiasr and Razi hospitals in Birjand from 2015 to 2022. The required information (demographic information, angiography result, and operation side effects) was collected in a checklist. If necessary, the patients were contacted by phone. After collecting the data, they were entered into SPSS version 16 software. Results. This study was conducted on 33 patients with a mean age of 64.88 ± 9.24 years (69.7% male). The average hospital stay was 11.6 ± 8.9 days (3 to 72 days). The mean ejection fraction and syntax score were 36.5% ± 10.2% and 31.21 ± 6.7, respectively. Following surgery and during hospitalization, arrhythmias were observed, including 33.3% with premature ventricular contractions, 18.1% with atrial fibrillation, and 3.1% with ventricular tachycardia. The average number of pack cells (red blood cells that have been separated for blood transfusion) and creatinine changes before and after hybrid surgery were 640.9 ± 670.9 cc and 0.055 ± 0.07. In the follow-up, 9.09% of patients had late mortality, 6.1% of patients had urinary tract infections during hospitalization, 6.1% of patients had surgical site infections, 3.1% needed dialysis, and none of the studied patients had premature death or need for reintervention. Conclusions. The results of our study indicated that staged HCR performed early after an ACS is not associated with significant mortality or complications. Therefore, it is advisable to consider staged HCR as a surgical option in appropriate cases.
Feasibility of Leveraging Consumer Wearable Devices with Data Platform Integration for Patient Vital Monitoring in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Effah Kaufmann Elsie , Tackie Richmond , Pitt J. Benjamin , Mba Samuel , Akwetey Bismark , Quaye Danielle , Mills Godfrey , Nyame Clement , Bulley Henry , Glucksberg Matthew , Ghomrawi Hassan , Appeadu-Mensah William , Abdullah Fizan
Published: February 2024

Manual monitoring of vital signs, which often fails to capture the onset of deterioration, is the main monitoring modality in most Ghanaian hospitals due to the high cost and inadequate supply of patient bedside monitors. Consumer wearable devices (CWDs) are emerging, relatively low-cost technologies for continuous monitoring of physiological status; however, their validity has not been established in low-resource clinical settings. We aimed to (1) investigate the validity of the heart rate (HR) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) data from two widely used CWDs, the Fitbit Versa 2 and Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 6, against gold standard bedside monitors in one Ghanaian hospital and (2) develop a web application to capture and display CWD data in a clinician-friendly way. A healthy volunteer simultaneously wore both CWDs and blood pressure cuffs to measure HR and SpO2. To test for concordance, we conducted the Bland-Altman and mean absolute percentage error analyses. We also developed a web application that retrieves and displays CWD data in near real time as text and graphical trends. Compared to gold standards (patient monitor and manual), the Fitbit Versa 2 had 96.87% and 96.67% measurement accuracies for HR, and the Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 6 had 94.24% and 93.21% measurement accuracies for HR. The Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 6 had 98.79% measurement accuracy for SpO2. The strong concordance between CWD and gold standards supports the potential implementation of these devices as a novel method of vital sign monitoring to replace manual monitoring, thus saving costs and improving patient outcomes. Further studies are needed for confirmation.
Patterns of Cancer-Related Healthcare Access across Pennsylvania: Analysis of Novel Census Tract-Level Indicators of Persistent Poverty
Authors: Moss Jennifer L. , Geyer Nathaniel R. , Lengerich Eugene J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Persistent poverty census tracts have had ≥20% of the population living below the federal poverty line for 30+ years. We assessed the relationship between persistent poverty and cancer-related healthcare access across census tracts in Pennsylvania.

Methods:

We gathered publicly available census tract-level data on persistent poverty, rurality, and sociodemographic variables, as well as potential access to healthcare (i.e., prevalence of health insurance, last-year check-up), realized access to healthcare (i.e., prevalence of screening for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers), and self-reported cancer diagnosis. We used multivariable spatial regression models to assess the relationships between persistent poverty and each healthcare access indicator.

Results:

Among Pennsylvania's census tracts, 2,789 (89.8%) were classified as non-persistent poverty, and 316 (10.2%) were classified as persistent poverty (113 did not have valid data on persistent poverty). Persistent poverty tracts had lower prevalence of health insurance [estimate = −1.70, standard error (SE) = 0.10], screening for cervical cancer (estimate = −4.00, SE = 0.17) and colorectal cancer (estimate = −3.13, SE = 0.20), and cancer diagnosis (estimate = −0.34, SE = 0.05), compared with non-persistent poverty tracts (all P < 0.001). However, persistent poverty tracts had higher prevalence of last-year check-up (estimate = 0.22, SE = 0.08) and screening for breast cancer (estimate = 0.56, SE = 0.15; both P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Relationships between persistent poverty and cancer-related healthcare access outcomes differed in direction and magnitude. Health promotion interventions should leverage data at fine-grained geographic units (e.g., census tracts) to motivate focus on communities or outcomes.

Impact:

Future studies should extend these analyses to other states and outcomes to inform public health research and interventions to reduce geographic disparities.
Figure 3 from ESR1 F404 Mutations and Acquired Resistance to Fulvestrant in ESR1-Mutant Breast Cancer
Authors: Kingston Belinda , Pearson Alex , Herrera-Abreu Maria Teresa , Sim Li-Xuan , Cutts Rosalind J. , Shah Heena , Moretti Laura , Kilburn Lucy S. , Johnson Hannah , Macpherson Iain R. , Ring Alistair , Bliss Judith M. , Hou Yingwei , Toy Weiyi , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Chandarlapaty Sarat , Turner Nicholas C.
Published: February 2024

F404 does not activate estrogen signaling. A, CRISPR clones of MCF7 cells expressing ESR1 F404L (1210T>C, CRISPR edit indicated by red arrows) or D538G (1613A>G; CRISPR edit indicated by black arrows) were identified by RT-PCR followed by Sanger sequencing (left-hand panels). Similarly, a second round of CRISPR was used to introduce ESR1 F404L (1210T>C) into a clone (D6C) that expressed D538G (1613A>G; right-hand panels). B, Estrogen-dependent growth was assessed in colony formation assay. Parental MCF7 cells and indicated ESR1-mutant models were grown in either the absence or presence of estradiol (1 nmol/L) for 14 days. C, Quantification of colony formation assays of ESR1-mutant models treated with and without estradiol (1 nmol/L). Sulforhodamine B (SRB)-stained colonies were dissolved, and absorbance at 565 nm was measured. Mean with SEM, n = 3 independent experiments, nonparametric one-way ANOVA with Dunn multiple comparisons test; **, P < 0.01. D, Expression of estrogen target genes, progesterone receptor (PgR), and trefoil factor-1 (TFF1), assessed by western blot in parental MCF7 cells and indicated ESR1-mutant models grown in either the absence or presence of estradiol (1 nmol/L) for 24 hours. E, MCF7 cells were transfected with ESR1 expression constructs with indicated ESR1 variants. Expression of ERα was determined by western blot. F, MCF7 cells were cotransfected with the indicated ESR1 expression constructs ERE-luciferase reporter and control construct. Cells were treated in either the absence or presence of estradiol (1 nmol/L) for 24 hours, and ERE-luciferase activity was assessed. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA with Dunnett multiple comparisons test, n = 4 mean with SD; *, P < 0.05. WT, wild-type.
Supplementary Data Figure S8 from Loss-of-Function but Not Gain-of-Function Properties of Mutant TP53 Are Critical for the Proliferation, Survival, and Metastasis of a Broad Range of Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Zilu , Burigotto Matteo , Ghetti Sabrina , Vaillant François , Tan Tao , Capaldo Bianca D. , Palmieri Michelle , Hirokawa Yumiko , Tai Lin , Simpson Daniel S. , Chang Catherine , Huang Allan Shuai , Lieschke Elizabeth , Diepstraten Sarah T. , Kaloni Deeksha , Riffkin Chris , Huang David C.S. , Li Wai Suen Connie S.N. , Garnham Alexandra L. , Gibbs Peter , Visvader Jane E. , Sieber Oliver M. , Herold Marco J. , Fava Luca L. , Kelly Gemma L. , Strasser Andreas
Published: February 2024

Supplementary Figure S8 showing that complete removal of mutant TP53 in HT29 cells does not impair survival and proliferation in culture
Inverted Placement of Endoscopic One-Way Endobronchial Valve Combined with Gelfoam in the Closure of Bronchopleural Fistula with Empyema in a Mechanically Ventilated Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Jie , Li Chun , Liu Zilong , Ye Ling , Shen Qinjun , Hong Qunying , Song Yuanlin , Ye Maosong
Published: February 2024

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) with empyema caused by severe necrotizing pulmonary infection is a complicated clinical problem that is often associated with poor general condition so surgical interventions cannot be tolerated in most cases. Here, we present the successful management of multiple BPF with empyema in a mechanically ventilated patient with aspiration lung abscess. Occlusion utilizing Gelfoam followed by endobronchial valves (EBVs) implanted inverted via bronchoscope decreased the air leaking significantly and made intrapleural irrigation for empyema achievable and safe. This is the first report of a novel way of EBV placement and the combination use with other occlusive substances in BPF with empyema in a patient on mechanical ventilation. This method may be an option for refractory BPF cases with pleural infection.
Challenges and Clinical Relevance of Modern Breast Pathology Reporting: Your Questions Answered
Authors: Deb Rahul , Laokulrath Natthawadee , Chagla Leena , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: February 2024

Background: Breast pathology reporting, especially for breast cancer, has evolved through the years, from terse succinct diagnostic conclusions with scant histological details to the current comprehensive reporting guidelines issued by major pathology colleges and bodies, including the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting. Pathology elements included in reporting guidelines are evidence based and contribute significantly to individualised and personalised patient management. Summary: This article is based on the lively interactive question and answer session that followed the breast pathology segment in the symposium jointly organised by the British Association of Urological Pathology, British Association of Gynaecological Pathologists, British Society of Gastroenterology and the Association of Breast Pathology, in November 2022, titled “Personalised histopathology reporting for personalised medicine.” Key Messages: The breast pathology session emphasised the clinical utility of breast pathology data items, incorporating a case-based approach by highlighting the relevance of pathology information in various clinical scenarios. This review included clinico-pathological discussion points on florid lobular carcinoma in situ, atypical apocrine adenosis, post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy reporting, atypical ductal hyperplasia presenting at the margin, flat epithelial atypia versus columnar cell change, papilloma on core needle biopsy, margin status, mucocele-like lesion, total duct excision/microdochectomy specimen, and anterior and nipple margins in skin-sparing mastectomy. Effective communication and regular involvement of pathologists in breast multidisciplinary tumour boards are crucial.
Inconsciente et Verbum: psicanálise, semiótica, ciência, estrutura
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas, Beividas Waldir
Published: February 2024

Trata-se de um estudo pioneiro no campo da semiótica europeia e da psicanálise freudo-lacaniana, no final dos anos 1980 que pretende estabelecer argumentos robustos para defender uma abertura de diálogos entre semiótica e psicanálise, argumentos inspirados no vigoroso gesto de Lacan, ao abrir sua psicanálise para o campo da linguística, nos anos 1950, e tomar deste campo o impulso decisivo para uma revisão integral da psicanálise freudiana – ao que chamou de retorno a Freud – sob a bandeira de duas teses fundamentais: (i) a linguagem como condição do inconsciente; (ii) o inconsciente estruturado como linguagem. Convicção, petição de princípio, ou excessiva esperança, o alento que move este estudo de interface é que possam ganhar, no fim, o inconsciente et verbum.
Predicting Lipid-Rich Plaque Progression in Coronary Arteries Using Multimodal Imaging and Wall Shear Stress Signatures
Authors: De Nisco Giuseppe , Hartman Eline M.J. , Torta Elena , Daemen Joost , Chiastra Claudio , Gallo Diego , Morbiducci Umberto , Wentzel Jolanda J.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Plaque composition and wall shear stress (WSS) magnitude act as well-established players in coronary plaque progression. However, WSS magnitude per se does not completely capture the mechanical stimulus to which the endothelium is subjected, since endothelial cells experience changes in the WSS spatiotemporal configuration on the luminal surface. This study explores WSS profile and lipid content signatures of plaque progression to identify novel biomarkers of coronary atherosclerosis.

METHODS:

Thirty-seven patients with acute coronary syndrome underwent coronary computed tomography angiography, near-infrared spectroscopy intravascular ultrasound, and optical coherence tomography of at least 1 nonculprit vessel at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Baseline coronary artery geometries were reconstructed from intravascular ultrasound and coronary computed tomography angiography and combined with flow information to perform computational fluid dynamics simulations to assess the time-averaged WSS magnitude (TAWSS) and the variability in the contraction/expansion action exerted by WSS on the endothelium, quantifiable in terms of topological shear variation index (TSVI). Plaque progression was measured as intravascular ultrasound-derived percentage plaque atheroma volume change at 1-year follow-up. Plaque composition information was extracted from near-infrared spectroscopy and optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS:

Exposure to high TSVI and low TAWSS was associated with higher plaque progression (4.00±0.69% and 3.60±0.62%, respectively). Plaque composition acted synergistically with TSVI or TAWSS, resulting in the highest plaque progression (≥5.90%) at locations where lipid-rich plaque is exposed to high TSVI or low TAWSS.

CONCLUSIONS:

Luminal exposure to high TSVI, solely or combined with a lipid-rich plaque phenotype, is associated with enhanced plaque progression at 1-year follow-up. Where plaque progression occurred, low TAWSS was also observed. These findings suggest TSVI, in addition to low TAWSS, as a potential biomechanical predictor for plaque progression, showing promise for clinical translation to improve patient prognosis.
A Problem in Augustine, Confessions 3.21
Authors: Panegyres Konstantine
Published: February 2024

This paper reconsiders a problem raised by the verb substomachans in Augustine’s Confessions (3.21). Contrary to what has been argued by a recent scholar, the verb does not mean “to belch (out)”. Since the word only occurs once in the writings of Augustine, and only appears again in Latin in the derivative writings of Julian of Eclanum (C.Iul. imp. 6.16), there has always been some debate about its form and meaning. The verb is probably nothing more than a Latin calque (loan translation) of Greek ὑπαγανακτέω (“to be somewhat angry”).
Bendis, Deloptes and Asklepios: Reconsidering Reciprocal Formations of Iconography and Placement of Newcomer Cults in the Piraeus
Authors: Graml Constanze
Published: February 2024

In the fifth century BCE, Athenians intensified the worship of non-Athenian and non-Greek deities, a fact which has resulted in massive scholarly attention (Garland 1992; Parker 1996; Neumann 2022). While the legal facet of this procedure has been extensively analysed (Parker 1996; 2011), the spatial aspect of the establishment of new cults – the ‘placemaking’ – has been mainly neglected. This article re-examines the placement of the cults of Asklepios, Bendis and Deloptes, commonly assumed to have been a healing hero and a paredros of Bendis. Based on the iconographical analysis of Piraean votive reliefs for these divinities in combination with the spatial and temporal setting of these attestations, I argue that the Athenians provided space for this first wave of officially accepted religious newcomers close to the Zea harbour. At the temenos, which is usually identified as the Asklepieion and its immediate surroundings, several originally non-Athenian cults were installed during the Peloponnesian War, making it an anchoring point for the divine new arrivals.
Site Locations on the Jutland Peninsula across the Late Funnel Beaker – Early Corded Ware Period Transition and Their Implications
Authors: Nielsen Simon Kjær
Published: February 2024

The extent of spatial overlap between late Funnel Beaker (TRB) and early Corded Ware or ‘Single Grave’ finds has figured prominently in discussions of how the latter became established on the Jutland Peninsula after 2850 BCE. Working mainly from regional distribution maps and often framing the issue in terms of ‘territories’, decades of debate have focused not least on the question of whether elements of Corded Ware culture primarily arrived in this region with incoming migrants or whether the late TRB groups that already inhabited the region during the early 3rd millennium BCE played a central role in adopting a new tradition. Recently, the results of aDNA research have shifted the relevant questions from whether migration played a role to which role migration played, how it interacted with other factors and how both processes and outcomes varied. The task of answering these questions calls for local-scale analyses and for comparisons across cases and contexts. This article examines site locations and the more detailed location of burials, ritual structures and funerary monuments at specific sites within a 40 × 40 km large area in northern Jutland across the late TRB – early Corded Ware period transition. The results show a high degree of continuity in the location of cemeteries in the landscape, in some cases down to individual burials superposing one another, and this leads to a discussion of different scenarios that may explain the apparent correspondence across the general shift in burial customs. The results obtained in the selected area in northern Jutland are also compared with site locations in another part of the peninsula, i.e. the Horsens Fjord area in eastern-central Jutland, which has also been studied thoroughly recently and where a very different pattern is found (Madsen 2020). The article concludes by discussing the background of these two different patterns and the presumably rather different cultural processes that took place across the late TRB – early Corded Ware transition in these two areas.
Aflatoxin contamination of household stored grains for smallholder farmers in Dodoma, Tanzania
Authors: Kimario M.E. , Moshi A.P. , Ndossi H.P. , Kussaga J.B.
Published: February 2024

Aflatoxins are toxic and carcinogenic secondary metabolites, produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which contaminate stored grains including maize, groundnuts and sunflower seeds and cause negative health effects to both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to determine the level of aflatoxins contamination of household stored grains (maize, groundnuts and sunflower seeds) in Dodoma, Tanzania. Immuno-affinity high performance liquid chromatography with post column derivatization was used to analyse AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2 and total aflatoxins in 45 samples. Out of 45 samples, 38% were contaminated with aflatoxins; the highest mean levels of total aflatoxins were observed in groundnuts (269 μg/kg) followed by maize (74.9 μg/kg) and lastly sunflower (0.2 μg/kg). About 27% of maize and 67% of groundnut samples had higher levels of AFB1 and total aflatoxins beyond the East African Community limits of 5 and 10 μg/kg, respectively. The mean moisture contents were 9.6% for maize, 4.1% for groundnuts and 5.7% for sunflower seeds. These moisture levels were far below the recommended safe storage moisture levels of 13.5% for maize, 8% for groundnuts and 10% for sunflower seeds. Such moisture levels would not allow mould growth and subsequent aflatoxins contamination. It suggests that contamination could have occurred in the field or during the drying stages before reaching the observed moisture levels. Therefore, there is a need to conduct further study to assess aflatoxin contamination in the field, during drying operations and storage to identify the critical stage for intervention. Moreover, farmers should be trained on best management and handling practices to prevent contamination.
هل يقدم القرآن مبادئ تأسيسية لأخلاق بيئية؟
Authors: حللي عبد الرحمن
Published: February 2024

الخلاصة

‫تنحت هذه المقالة إجابة عن سؤال: ما المبادئ التي يمكن استمدادها من القرآن الكريم لتأسيس أخلاقيات بيئية؟ وهل يمكن أن نجد فيه أسسًا يُبنى موقف إسلامي من قضايا البيئة استنادًا إليها؟ انتهت الدراسة إلى تمييز أربعة مبادئ تعد منطلقات دينية للتنظير البيئي. الأول: اعتراف الإنسان بحدود علمه مقارنة بعلم الله المحيط (الإيمان بالغيب)، وهذا الإقرار العقدي هو المدخل الديني لعلاقة الإنسان بالطبيعة والعوالم. الثاني: مفهوم التسخير من حيث جعل القرآن منفعة المسخرات بما جُعلت عليه من نظام وتقدير وأن أي إخلال بنظامها لا يحقق الغرض مما سُخِّرت من أجله. الثالث: ملاحظة العلاقة التي جعلها الله بين الإنسان والطبيعة والخالق، وأن الجميع خاضع للخالق، ولا تنفك علاقة الإنسان مع الطبيعة عن علاقته مع الشريعة. الرابع: أن الانتفاع من المسخرات يكون باعتدال من غير إسراف. ويجمع المبادئ الأربعة وصف الأمانة كمصطلح أخلاقي صميم يعني بالضرورة أن الإنسان مسؤول في هذه الأرض عن الفساد (العدوان على الطبيعة) وسفك الدماء (العدوان على الشريعة).‬
Religions by Continent
Authors: Johnson Todd M. , Crossing Peter F.
Published: February 2024

To supplement our global assessment of 18 religions in a previous article in this issue of the journal, here we offer analysis of religious affiliation by the globe and six continents: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Northern America, and Oceania. Estimates of religious affiliation are made for four dates, 1970, 2000, 2023, and projections for 2030. We also contrast growth in two 30-year periods, 1970–2000 and 2000–2030. These global and continental tables are based on country data (World Religion Database). United Nations regional tables (e.g., Western Africa) can also be constructed from the country data.
The World by Religion
Authors: Johnson Todd M. , Crossing Peter F.
Published: February 2024

This article represents the results of analysis of data on religion for all of the countries of the world which appear in the World Religion Database (Johnson and Grim 2023). Data was collected at the national level from a number of sources including censuses, surveys, polls, religious communities, scholars, and others. After data collection and analysis, discrepancies were worked out and best estimates are made for each religion across a number of years. Results are presented for religionists and non-religionists as a whole as well as for each religious and non-religious category.
Religiosity in Russia: Decomposition into Age, Cohort and Period Effects
Authors: Fedotenkov Igor
Published: February 2024

Are Russians religious? In this paper, religiosity in Russia (2011–2021) is decomposed into age, cohort and period effects using panel data analysis techniques. It is shown that age effects on religiosity are U-shaped: respondents are more religious when young or old with the minima at the age of 41–45 for women and 46–60 for men. The most religious cohorts in Russia were born in 1960–1980. There is a sharp decline in religiosity in younger generations. There is also a large gender religiosity gap in older generations: women are more religious than men. However, in younger cohorts, the gender religiosity gap closes. Time effects suggest that religiosity in Russia was increasing before 2016, while in 2016, a substantial decline occurred. Since 2016, there has been no growth in religiosity.
Democracy in China?
Authors: Dunn John
Published: February 2024

On what basis can the People’s Republic of China remain a legitimate regime? Its current legitimacy rests on an increasingly distant Revolution. It cannot reasonably hope to sustain this by seamless practical success in government. Is there an oecumenical criterion for legitimate political power or is all legitimacy just de facto? Shorn of its cosmological validation, Confucianism cannot offer an alternative parochial basis for legitimacy. Both territoriality and law now require procedurally credible popular consent. This argument is practical and patriotic as well as normative. It is unlikely to convince the leadership of the ccp, but History might in the end prove it right.
A new species of Oxandra (Annonaceae) from the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: FERREIRA INDIARA NUNES MESQUITA , DE OLIVEIRA DINIZ DANIELLE , FERREIRA FERNANDA GOMES , VENTUROLI FABIO
Published: February 2024

In Brazil, Annonaceae Jussieu (1789: 283 ) comprise 32 genera and 386 species distributed mainly in the Amazon region, although they also occur in the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes (Lopes & Mello-Silva 2014, Flora do Brasil 2020). Floristic studies have identified Annonaceae as an important family in Cerrado vegetation types (Ferreira et al. 2021).
Lectotypification of three names in Polygonatum (Asparagaceae, Polygonateae)
Authors: CHOI TAE-YOUNG , LEE SOO-RANG
Published: February 2024

The genus Polygonatum Miller (1754: without page) consists of perennial herbs, distributed in the temperate Northern hemisphere (POWO 2024). It is well appreciated in East Asia for its wide array of commercial uses and the species diversity (Kim et al. 2014, Floden 2017). Despite the increased recognition of its value as a natural resource, knowledge of the taxonomy and phylogenetic relationship among congeners has been lacking (Floden 2014, Chao & Tseng 2019). There are unresolved nomenclatural problems (Floden & Schilling 2018), in Polygonatum, around 340 binomials for 76 accepted species (IPNI 2024, POWO 2024, WFO 2024) have been published since Miller (1754), hence often the taxonomic identity of the many species is not straightforward and always in the flux.
Hieracium moravobarbatum (Asteraceae), a new name for the illegitimate H. barbatum Tausch
Authors: SZELĄG ZBIGNIEW
Published: February 2024

Hieracium barbatum Tausch (1828: 72) was an illegitimate later homonym of H. barbatum Loiseleur-Deslongchamps (1807: 72). Froelich in Candolle (1838: 223) described this taxon anew as H. racemosum var. barbatum based on the Tausch’s original specimen. Zahn in Hallier (1902: 1925) raised the variety to subspecies rank within H. racemosum s. lat.
Sudden Secondary Sensorineural Hearing Loss Following Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in an Adult Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Yuan Jingjing , Zhang Mingsheng , Yan Zhanfeng , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) can present as sudden hearing loss within 72 hours. Studies have shown that viral infection, including direct invasion, indirect reactions, stress responses, and immune-mediated hearing loss, is the main cause of SSNHL. Viral infection may play an important role in SSNHL by causing injury to the inner ear through blood or cerebrospinal fluid. In this article, we describe an adult case of SSNHL following hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Case Report: A 34-year-old man presented with sudden hearing loss in the right ear 4 days after HFMD onset. Tinnitus, ear fullness, and a slightly heavy head appeared synchronously as accompanying symptoms. Before 6 days, he had a fever for 2 days (the highest temperature was 39.4°C), followed by vesicles in the oral mucosa and papules on the hands and feet after cohabitation with his child diagnosed with HFMD.
Differential Performance of Computerized Adaptive Testing in Students With and Without Disabilities – A Simulation Study
Authors: Ebenbeck Nikola , Gebhardt Markus
Published: February 2024

Technologies that enable individualization for students have significant potential in special education. Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) refers to digital assessments that automatically adjust their difficulty level based on students' abilities, allowing for personalized, efficient, and accurate measurement. This article examines whether CAT performs differently for students with and without special educational needs (SEN). Two simulation studies were conducted using a sample of 709 third-grade students from general and special schools in Germany, who took a reading test. The results indicate that students with SEN were assessed with fewer items, reduced bias, and higher accuracy compared to students without SEN. However, measurement accuracy decreased, and test length increased for students whose abilities deviated more than two SD from the norm. We discuss potential adaptations of CAT for students with SEN in the classroom, as well as the integration of CAT with AI-supported feedback and tailored exercises within a digital learning environment.
Advertising Frames and the Legitimation of the Armed American Woman
Authors: Huff Aimee Dinnín , Burkhardt Brett C. , Barnhart Michelle
Published: February 2024

The idea of the armed American woman – a woman in the United States who owns and uses a firearm – appears to have gained legitimacy in recent years. We investigate one aspect of this increased legitimacy by focusing on how she is depicted in gun advertising, which reflects and shapes legitimacy. Using a novel dataset of a sample of gun manufacturers’ advertisements in a publicly available gun magazine from 2001–2020, we conduct a content analysis to identify trends and differences between ads featuring men versus women. Next, focusing on ads in the sample featuring armed women, we identify phases of general framing strategies. Finally, analyzing all ads featuring armed women during the final phase, 2016–2020, which coincides with increased legitimacy, we identify specific frames of the armed American woman: the Serious Student, Capable Carrier, Domestic Defender, and Action Hero. Findings contribute to literature on gun advertising, discourses in American gun culture, and market legitimation.
The Italian Rare Biliary tract Cancer initiative (IRaBiCa): A multicentric observational study of Gruppo Oncologico dell’Italia Meridionale (GOIM) in collaboration with Gruppo Italiano Colangiocarcinoma (GICO)
Authors: Speranza Desirèe , Sapuppo Elena , Aprile Giuseppe , Auriemma Alessandra , Bergamo Francesca , Bianco Roberto , Bordonaro Roberto , Brandi Giovanni , Brunetti Oronzo , Carnaghi Carlo , Ciliberto Domenico , Cinieri Saverio , Corallo Salvatore , De Vita Ferdinando , Di Donato Samantha , Ferraù Francesco , Fornaro Lorenzo , Barucca Viola , Giommoni Elisa , Lotesoriere Claudio , Luchini Claudio , Masini Cristina , Niger Monica , Pisconti Salvatore , Rapposelli Ilario Giovanni , Rimassa Lorenza , Rognone Chiara , Rodriquenz Maria Grazia , Corsini Lidia Rita , Santin Daniele , Scarpa Aldo , Scartozzi Mario , Soto Parra Hector , Tonini Giuseppe , Tortora Giampaolo , Tralongo Paolo , Silvestris Nicola
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

About 90% of cholangiocarcinomas are adenocarcinomas with glandular or tubular structures lined by epithelial cells, with no bile production and with a variable degree of differentiation, arising in the background of desmoplastic stroma. The remaining 10% is represented by rarer histological variants of which there is little knowledge regarding the biological behavior, molecular characterization, and sensitivity to the various possible therapies, including molecular-based treatments. Such rare tumors are described only in case reports or small retrospective series because of their exclusion from clinical trials. This national initiative, here presented, aims to address the following knowledge gap: a) how much does histological diversity translate into clinical manifestation variety? b) are those chemotherapy regimens, recommended for conventional biliary tract cancers, potentially active in rare variants? Therefore, epidemiological, pathological, and clinical characterization of series of rare biliary histotypes/variants, for which therapeutic and follow-up data are available, will be collected.

Methods:

An Italian task force on rare tumors of the biliary tract (IRaBiCa) has been created, whose initiative is a multicenter retrospective study involving 34 Italian cancer centers. Clinical data from approximately 100 patients will be collected and analyzed. Continuous variables will be presented as median ± standard deviation, while categorical variables will be expressed in terms of frequency. Kaplan-Maier analyses will be used to compare disease free, progression free and overall survival, according to the different histotypes.

Conclusions:

We expect to gather novel data on rare histotypes of biliary tract cancer that will be useful to support their molecular and immunological characterization.
Student-perceived social interactions in university musical ensembles predicted group identification
Authors: Sun Yu , Li Shangpeng , Li Zheng
Published: February 2024

Group identification is a key process in the development of an individual’s social identity. This study examined whether student-perceived social interactions in university ensembles could shape their group identification. The sample included 517 university students from 7 ensembles of 2 universities in China. Student-perceived teacher–student relationships, peer relationships, cooperation, and equity in university ensembles were measured by the revised College and University Classroom Environment Inventory. Students’ group identification was measured by the questionnaire for identification with art-based groups. Data were collected and further analyzed by structural equation modeling via Amos 23. The results showed that students’ perceptions of teacher–student relationships, peer relationships, and cooperation had positive effects on their identification with the university ensemble, but the teacher’s differential treatment had negative effects on their group identification.
Effect of Curing Temperature on the Shrinkage of Concrete Containing Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement: Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Bensahnoune Sahnoune , Bouziadi Farid , Boulekbache Bensaid , Hamrat Mostefa , Haddi Abdelkader , Amziane Sofiane
Published: February 2024

The aim of this research is to determine the effect of curing temperatures (20°C, 40°C, and 60°C) and incorporation rates of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) on the mechanical properties and shrinkage of concrete made with reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP-C). Five mixes were produced for this study: one with natural coarse aggregate and four with four replacement ratios of coarse RAP (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%). The results show that the use of RAP reduces the workability and adversely affects the mechanical performance of RAP-C. Moreover, this study found that the total shrinkage increases with coarse RAP content. However, the total shrinkage of RAP-C decreases as the curing temperature increases: for concrete made with 100% RAP, a 20% reduction in total shrinkage was observed at 60°C compared to conventional concrete at 180 days. In addition, to predict the total shrinkage of RAP-C, finite element analysis using ANSYS© software based on the maturity approach and the two-phase serial model is used. The numerical results are in close agreement with the experimental data.
MetRoBERTa: Leveraging Traditional Customer Relationship Management Data to Develop a Transit-Topic-Aware Language Model
Authors: Leong Michael , Abdelhalim Awad , Ha Jude , Patterson Diane , Pincus Gabriel L. , Harris Anthony B. , Eichler Michael , Zhao Jinhua
Published: February 2024

Transit riders’ feedback provided in ridership surveys, customer relationship management (CRM) channels, and, in more recent times, through social media, is key for transit agencies to better gauge the efficacy of their services and initiatives. Getting a holistic understanding of riders’ experience through the feedback shared in those instruments is often challenging, mostly because of the open-ended, unstructured nature of text feedback. In this paper, we propose leveraging traditional transit CRM feedback to develop and deploy a transit-topic-aware large language model (LLM) capable of classifying open-ended text feedback to relevant transit-specific topics. First, we utilize semi-supervised learning to engineer a training dataset of 11 broad transit topics detected in a corpus of 6 years of customer feedback provided to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. We then use this dataset to train and thoroughly evaluate a language model based on the RoBERTa architecture. We compare our LLM—MetRoBERTa—with classical machine learning approaches utilizing keyword-based and lexicon representations. Our model outperforms those methods across all evaluation metrics, providing an average topic classification accuracy of 90%. Finally, we provide a value proposition of this work demonstrating how the language model, alongside additional text processing tools, can be applied to add structure to open-ended text sources of feedback such as Twitter. The framework and results we present provide a pathway for an automated, generalizable approach for ingesting, visualizing, and reporting transit riders’ feedback at scale, enabling agencies to better understand and improve customer experience.