bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galangin: A food‐derived flavonoid with therapeutic potential against a wide spectrum of diseases
Authors: Wang Daibo , Chen Junren , Pu Lin , Yu Lei , Xiong Fang , Sun Luyao , Yu Qian , Cao Xiaoyu , Chen Yan , Peng Fu , Peng Cheng
Published: September 2023

Galangin is an important flavonoid with natural activity, that is abundant in galangal and propolis. Currently, various biological activities of galangin have been disclosed, including anti‐inflammation, antibacterial effect, anti‐oxidative stress and aging, anti‐fibrosis, and antihypertensive effect. Based on the above bioactivities, more and more attention has been paid to the role of galangin in neurodegenerative diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, skin diseases, and cancer. In this paper, the natural sources, pharmacokinetics, bioactivities, and therapeutic potential of galangin against various diseases were systematically reviewed by collecting and summarizing relevant literature. In addition, the molecular mechanism and new preparation of galangin in the treatment of related diseases are also discussed, to broaden the application prospect and provide reference for its clinical application. Furthermore, it should be noted that current toxicity and clinical studies of galangin are insufficient, and more evidence is needed to support its possibility as a functional food.
Enhancing the Emission Rate of the Inherent Silicon‐Vacancy Center Using Optimized Multipolar Moments in a Silicon Carbide Metasurface
Authors: Vashist Vivek , Khokhar Megha , Inam Faraz A. , Nair Rajesh V.
Published: September 2023

Silicon carbide (SiC) hosts various color centers with emission lines from visible to near‐infrared, with promising applications in quantum communication. Metasurfaces made using SiC can enhance the emission rate of inherent color centers to achieve on‐demand single photon emission with a high emission rate. This is possible by engineering the amplitude and phase of the excited multipolar scattering moments in metasurfaces. The numerical simulations and analytical calculations are used to study the emission rate enhancement from an embedded single silicon vacancy () center in SiC metasurface. The optimized metasurface balances multipolar moments at the zero‐phonon line wavelength of 862 nm with 40 times field intensity confinement. The confinement provides substantial emission rate enhancement for the center, making it a bright single photon emitter at 862 nm. The significant emission enhancement offers new insights into the metasurface to achieve on‐demand single‐photon sources and efficient spin–photon interfaces.
A high‐efficiency frequency synchronization scheme for low Earth orbit satellite communications based on dynamic game theory
Authors: Liu Wen , Cai Wei , Liu Lizhe , Wang Dongdong , Lin Wenliang , Wang Ke , Deng Zhongliang , Deng Yaohua , Wan Da , Dong Zewen , Hu Junhe
Published: September 2023

The rapid development of satellite internet networks has given rise to a new vision for the sixth generation of networking technology. However, the Doppler effect is relatively serious in satellite internet networks because a satellite moves quickly relative to a ground terminal. Therefore, there is an urgent need to study intelligent and dynamic synchronization methods to solve the problem of the rapidly changing Doppler frequency offset. Traditional methods do not consider the impact of spatial changes and typically focus on enhancing the estimation range or accuracy. We analyze various scenarios under phased array beam hopping and establish constraints between the terminal location, satellite ephemeris, subsatellite point track, elevation angle, and carrier frequency offset. We introduce dynamic game theory into frequency synchronization to optimize multiple Doppler estimation performance under rapidly changing channel conditions. We take the combination of carrier frequency offset estimation algorithm strategies at the current moment as the game entity. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve an estimation accuracy of 100 Hz and an estimation range of ±800 kHz. During the onboard test, the probability of achieving complete synchronization (when the synchronization success rate is 1) is 0.65, which is much higher than the 0.15 of the single method.
Bayesian adaptive design for covariate‐adaptive historical control information borrowing
Authors: Jin Huaqing , Kim Mi‐Ok , Scheffler Aaron , Jiang Fei
Published: September 2023

Interest in incorporating historical data in the clinical trial has increased with the rising cost of conducting clinical trials. The intervention arm for the current trial often requires prospective data to assess a novel treatment, and thus borrowing historical control data commensurate in distribution to current control data is motivated in order to increase the allocation ratio to the current intervention arm. Existing historical control borrowing adaptive designs adjust allocation ratios based on the commensurability assessed through study‐level summary statistics of the response agnostic of the distributions of the trial subject characteristics in the current and historical trials. This can lead to distributional imbalance of the current trial subject characteristics across the treatment arms as well as between current control data and borrowed historical control data. Such covariate imbalance may threaten the internal validity of the current trial by introducing confounding factors that affect study endpoints. In this article, we propose a Bayesian design which borrows and updates the treatment allocation ratios both covariate‐adaptively and commensurate to covariate dependently assessed similarity between the current and historical control data. We employ covariate‐dependent discrepancy parameters which are allowed to grow with the sample size and propose a regularized local regression procedure for the estimation of the parameters. The proposed design also permits the current and the historical controls to be similar to varying degree, depending on the subject level characteristics. We evaluate the proposed design extensively under the settings derived from two placebo‐controlled randomized trials on vertebral fracture risk in post‐menopausal women.
Network and covariate adjusted response‐adaptive design for binary response
Authors: Mei Hao , Xie Jiaxin , Qin Yichen , Li Yang
Published: September 2023

Randomization is a distinguishing feature of clinical trials for unbiased assessment of treatment efficacy. With a growing demand for more flexible and efficient randomization schemes and motivated by the idea of adaptive design, in this article we propose the network and covariate adjusted response‐adaptive (NCARA) design that can concurrently manage three challenges: (1) maximizing benefits of a trial by assigning more patients to the superior treatment group randomly; (2) balancing social network ties across treatment arms to eliminate potential network interference; and (3) ensuring balance of important covariates, such as age, gender, and other potential confounders. We conduct simulation with different network structures and a variety of parameter settings. It is observed that the NCARA design outperforms four alternative randomization designs in solving the above‐mentioned problems and has comparable power and type I error for detecting true difference between treatment groups. In addition, we conduct real data analysis to implement the new design in two clinical trials. Compared to equal randomization (the original design utilized in the trials), the NCARA design slightly increases power, largely increases the percentage of patients assigned to the better‐performing group, and significantly improves network and covariate balances. It is also noted that the advantages of the NCARA design are augmented when the sample size is small and the level of network interference is high. In summary, the proposed NCARA design assists researchers in conducting clinical trials with high‐quality and high‐efficiency.
Self‐powered broadband kesterite photodetector with ultrahigh specific detectivity for weak light applications
Authors: Liang Guang‐Xing , Li Chuan‐Hao , Zhao Jun , Fu Yi , Yu Zi‐Xuan , Zheng Zhuang‐Hao , Su Zheng‐Hua , Fan Ping , Zhang Xiang‐Hua , Luo Jing‐Ting , Ding Liming , Chen Shuo
Published: September 2023

Kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) is a promising candidate for photodetector (PD) applications thanks to its excellent optoelectronic properties. In this work, a green solution‐ processed spin coating and selenization‐processed thermodynamic or kinetic growth of high‐quality narrow bandgap kesterite CZTSSe thin film is developed. A self‐powered CZTSSe/CdS thin‐film PD is then successfully fabricated. Under optimization of light absorber and heterojunction interface, especially tailoring the defect and carrier kinetics, it can achieve broadband response from 300 to 1300 nm, accompanied with a high responsivity of 1.37 A/W, specific detectivity (D*) up to 4.0 × 1014 Jones under 5 nW/cm2, a linear dynamic range (LDR) of 126 dB, and a maximum Ilight/Idark ratio of 1.3 × 108 within the LDR, and ultrafast response speed (rise/decay time of 16 ns/85 ns), representing the leading‐level performance to date, which is superior to those of commercial and well‐researched photodiodes. Additionally, an imaging system with a 905 nm laser is built for weak light response evaluation, and can respond to 718 pW weak light and infrared imaging at a wavelength as low as 5 nW/cm2. It has also been employed for photoplethysmography detection of pulsating signals at both the finger and wrist, presenting obvious arterial blood volume changes, demonstrating great application potential in broadband and weak light photodetection scenarios.
PDE5 inhibitor drugs for use in dementia
Authors: Hainsworth Atticus H. , Arancio Ottavio , Elahi Fanny M. , Isaacs Jeremy D. , Cheng Feixiong
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) remain a major health‐care challenge with few licensed medications. Repurposing existing drugs may afford prevention and treatment. Phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE5) is widely expressed in vascular myocytes, neurons, and glia. Potent, selective, Food and Drug Administration–approved PDE5 inhibitors are already in clinical use (sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil) as vasodilators in erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Animal data indicate cognitive benefits of PDE5 inhibitors. In humans, real‐world patient data suggest that sildenafil and vardenafil are associated with reduced dementia risk. While a recent clinical trial of acute tadalafil on cerebral blood flow was neutral, there may be chronic actions of PDE5 inhibition on cerebrovascular or synaptic function. We provide a perspective on the potential utility of PDE5 inhibitors for ADRD. We conclude that further prospective clinical trials with PDE5 inhibitors are warranted. The choice of drug will depend on brain penetration, tolerability in older people, half‐life, and off‐target effects.

HIGHLIGHTS

Potent phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE5) inhibitors are in clinical use as vasodilators.

In animals PDE5 inhibitors enhance synaptic function and cognitive ability.

In humans the PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil is associated with reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Licensed PDE5 inhibitors have potential for repurposing in dementia.

Prospective clinical trials of PDE5 inhibitors are warranted.
Teaching with Cuentos Combativos: Reading for Decolonial Futures
Authors: Torres Francisco Luis , Medina Carmen Liliana
Published: September 2023

Transnational children's texts can bring communities together, forcing us to reflect critically on our past, present, and future, and pushing us to action. In this column, we propose that texts that do this form of activist work are cuentos combativos and that all teachers and researchers can leverage cuentos combativos for critical reflection, ReconoceR, and action for justice.
A Comparison of Self-reported Condomless Sex and Yc-DNA Biomarker Data from Young Women Engaged in High Risk Sexual Activity in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Boering Pippa , Seeley Janet , Buule Joshua , Kamacooko Onesmus , King Rachel
Published: September 2023

Reporting of condom-use can limit researchers’ understanding of high-risk sexual behaviours. We compared self-reported condom-use with the Yc-DNA biomarker data and investigated potential factors influencing participation in, and reporting of, sexual behaviours. Self-reported data were collected using Audio Computer Assisted Self Interviews (ACASI) and samples for Yc-DNA biomarker were collected using self-administered and health worker-collected vaginal swabs from 644 women (aged 15–24 years) who were not living with HIV. Yc-DNA results and interview data were compared using McNemar-Bowker Analysis and Cohen’s Kappa. Test statistics for Yc-DNA biomarker were calculated. Log Binomial models for Yc-DNA and self-reported results were conducted to assess for association. We found strong evidence (p < 0.001) for a difference between Yc-DNA and self-reported results. 13.7% of participants reported consistent condom-use with all partners, regardless of HIV status. Self-reported condom-use was discordant in 50.0% (n = 206) of cases, when compared to Yc-DNA results. Positive Yc-DNA results were found to be associated with older age (RR 1.36; 95%CI 1.04, 1.76 p = 0.023). Self-reported condom-use with partners with unknown HIV status was associated with higher education (RR 0.76; 95%CI 0.58,0.99 p = 0.043). Sensitivity analysis did not determine difference between methods for controlling for missing data. We found significant under-reporting of condomless sex in the self-reported data when compared to Yc-DNA results.
Penalized enhanced portfolio replication with asymmetric deviation measures
Authors: Torri Gabriele , Giacometti Rosella , Paterlini Sandra
Published: September 2023

Passive investment strategies, such as those implemented by Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), have gained increasing popularity among investors. In this context, smart beta products promise to deliver improved performance or lower risk through the implementation of systematic investing strategies, and they are also typically more cost-effective than traditional active management. The majority of research on index replication focuses on minimizing tracking error relative to a benchmark index, implementing constraints to improve performance, or restricting the number of assets included in portfolios. Our focus is on enhancing the benchmark through a limited number of deviations from the benchmark. We propose a range of innovative investment strategies aimed at minimizing asymmetric deviation measures related to expectiles and quantiles, while also controlling for the deviation of portfolio weights from the benchmark composition through penalization. This approach, as compared to traditional minimum tracking error volatility strategies, places a greater emphasis on the overall risk of the portfolio, rather than just the risk relative to the benchmark. The use of penalization also helps to mitigate estimation risk and minimize turnover, as compared to strategies without penalization. Through empirical analysis using simulated and real-world data, we critically examine the benefits and drawbacks of the proposed strategies in comparison to state-of-the-art tracking models.
Non-native earthworms increase the abundance and diet quality of a common woodland salamander in its northern range
Authors: Scott Trevor , Bradley Robert L. , Bourgault Patrice
Published: September 2023

Non-native earthworms found in Eastern Canada substantially affect soil properties and plant diversity, but less is known about their impacts on higher faunal species. We investigated the effects of non-native earthworms on populations of Plethodon cinereus, a common woodland salamander. We hypothesized that earthworms could adversely affect P. cinereus by consuming the forest floor, thereby decreasing soil moisture and the abundance of native preys. Conversely, earthworms could positively affect P. cinereus by providing refuge in their abandoned burrows and by being a novel prey. We installed 25 coverboards in 38 mature sugar maple (Acer saccharum) forests, 24 of which were earthworm-free. Over the next two years, we monitored earthworm and salamander populations using hot mustard extractions and visible implant elastomers, respectively. At a subset of four sites, two with and two without earthworms, we determined salamander diets in the spring (May–June), summer (July–August) and fall (September–October) seasons, using gastric lavage techniques. Forest floor depth decreased, whereas population density, body size and total prey volume of P. cinereus increased, with earthworm abundance. Earthworms, which are soft-bodied and nutritious prey, composed most of the salamander diet at sites with earthworms, volumetrically accounting for > 50% of total prey volume. Despite this, we found fewer prey items in the stomach of salamanders at earthworm-invaded sites, indicating that salamanders are getting a higher caloric intake per feeding while expending less energy. We conclude that non-native earthworms have a net beneficial effect on P. cinereus populations in Eastern Canada, mainly by improving diet quality.
New Australian frontier in freshwater fish invasion via Torres Strait Islands
Authors: Waltham Nathan J. , Snape Natale , Villacorta-Rath Cecilia , Burrows Damien
Published: September 2023

All continents, excluding Antarctica and the Artic, have been affected by incursion from alien freshwater fish species. Australia has not been spared. Four hundred and fifty species have now been declared on the ornamental importation list, making management a real challenge. With approximately 25 non-native species documented, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has likely some problems with invasive freshwater fish. Many of these species have been intentionally introduced to increase access to food as a protein source for remote communities or have spread naturally from western parts of Java and Indonesia, and now constitute a large biomass on some floodplain areas in PNG. The Torres Strait is located between PNG and northern Queensland and was previously a land bridge, though now under higher sea levels the region exists as a series of approximately 300 islands. The threat of further range extension of freshwater fish from PNG into northern Queensland via the Torres Strait Islands is significant, with two invasive fish species already recorded on northern islands of the Torres Strait (climbing perch,Anabas testudineuswhich has been continually recorded for the past decade; and recently the GIFT tilapia,Oreochromis niloticus). Here we present a case to control further spread of invasive freshwater fish species towards Australia, using a Land and Sea Ranger program, where Rangers are trained to be confident in the identification of pest fish species and to implement strategies to protect their borders from potential future incursions. The success of this program relies on Rangers to continue partaking in surveillance monitoring of coastal waters, checking and controlling for any new invasive species moving from PNG into Australian waters. We outline the biosecurity obligation under Article 14 of the Treaty between the two nations, which identifies the importance of conservation and protection of coastal floodplains from invasive species, and the spread between both nations.
Navigating the Landscape of MANF Research: A Scientometric Journey with CiteSpace Analysis
Authors: Zhang Caixia , Zhang Mi , Cao Xueqin , Jiao Bo , Zhang Wencui , Yu Shangchen , Zhang Xianwei
Published: September 2023

This study employs bibliometric analysis through CiteSpace to comprehensively evaluate the status and trends of MANF (mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor) research spanning 25 years (1997–2022). It aims to fill the gap in objective and comprehensive reviews of MANF research. MANF-related studies were extracted from the Web of Science database. MANF publications were quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed for various factors by CiteSpace, including publication volume, journals, countries/regions, institutions, and authors. Keywords and references were visually analyzed to unveil research evolution and hotspot. Analysis of 353 MANF-related articles revealed escalating annual publications, indicating growing recognition of MANF's importance. High-impact journals such as the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Journal of Biological Chemistry underscored MANF’s interdisciplinary significance. Collaborative networks highlighted China and the USA’s pivotal roles, while influential figures and partnerships drove understanding of MANF's mechanisms. Co-word analysis of MANF-related keywords exposed key evolutionary hotspots, encompassing neurotrophic effects, cytoprotective roles, MANF-related diseases, and the CDNF/MANF family. This progression from basic understanding to clinical potential showcased MANF’s versatility from cellular protection to therapy. Bibliometric analysis reveals MANF’s diverse research trends and pathways, from basics to clinical applications, driving medical progress. This comprehensive assessment enriches understanding and empowers researchers for dynamic evolution, advancing innovation, and benefiting patients.

Graphical Abstract

Bibliometric analysis of MANF research. The graphical abstract depicts the bibliometric analysis of MANF research, highlighting its aims, methods, and key results.
Implementing climate literacy in schools — what to teach our teachers?
Authors: Leve Anna-Kathryn , Michel Hanno , Harms Ute
Published: September 2023

Climate literacy (CL) comprises knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable individuals to counteract the global threat of anthropogenic climate change. Teachers’ knowledge and pedagogy are main predictors of students’ learning outcomes, but teachers are insufficiently prepared in the interdisciplinary field of CL. In a multilevel interrogation of experts in the fields of climate science, education research, and school, we derived 13 delineated themes describing necessary knowledge concerning the scientific background of climate change as well as pedagogy and teaching strategies. These themes indicate that teachers need a broad basis of understanding the climate system, climate science, causes of, impacts of, and dealing with climate change as well as the ability to convey this interdisciplinary content into teaching, by making the topic personally relevant and strengthening students’ role as change agents. The findings underline the need to promote interdisciplinary ways of teaching towards CL and provide a baseline for the development of future teacher preparation.
GitHub Actions: The Impact on the Pull Request Process
Authors: Wessel Mairieli , Vargovich Joseph , Gerosa Marco A. , Treude Christoph
Published: September 2023

Software projects frequently use automation tools to perform repetitive activities in the distributed software development process. Recently, GitHub introducedGitHub Actions, a feature providing automated workflows for software projects. Understanding and anticipating the effects of adopting such technology is important for planning and management. Our research investigates how projects useGitHub Actions, what the developers discuss about them, and how project activity indicators change after their adoption. Our results indicate that 1,489 out of 5,000 most popular repositories (almost 30% of our sample) adoptGitHub Actionsand that developers frequently ask for help implementing them. Our findings also suggest that the adoption ofGitHub Actionsleads to more rejections of pull requests (PRs), more communication in accepted PRs and less communication in rejected PRs, fewer commits in accepted PRs and more commits in rejected PRs, and more time to accept a PR. We found similar results when segmenting our results by categories ofGitHub Actions. We suggest practitioners consider these effects when adoptingGitHub Actionson their projects.
Board of directors and environmental practices: the effect of board experience, culture, and tenure
Authors: Gallego-Álvarez Isabel , Rodriguez-Dominguez Luis
Published: September 2023

This study analyses whether board diversity in terms of gender and culture, as well as members’ experience and tenure, has a positive influence on the undertaking of environmental practices. The analysis was performed on a broad sample of international companies from 29 countries, on the basis of an index made up of 55 environmental activities. We designed a Tobit model in which the index of environmental practices is a function of several features of the board. The findings confirm that more diverse boards, with more experienced and long-tenured members, are more prone to the environmental commitment by promoting a broader range of environmental initiatives. The article provides new insights in terms of the influence of board diversity in culture, experience, and tenure. We extend previous literature by analysing these factors, whose effects have been less studied, rather than other drivers (such as board size and independence). Corporate governance mechanisms, and more specifically, the board of directors, may play an essential role in ensuring congruence among a firm’s actions, stakeholders’ demands, and societal expectations. The advantages derived from a wider knowledge base and diversity in the board lead to a pro-environmental vision on behalf of the company.
Alcohol Use Patterns Among Underage Autistic and Non-Autistic Youth
Authors: Holmes Laura Graham , Xuan Ziming , Quinn Emily , Caplan Reid , Sanchez Amelia , Wharmby Peter , Holingue Calliope , Levy Sharon , Rothman Emily F.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

We explored factors predicting repeated or hazardous alcohol use among autistic and non-autistic U.S. youth ages 16 to 20 years.

Methods

Autistic (n = 94) and non-autistic (n = 92) youth completed an online survey. By design, half of each group reported past-year alcohol use. We compared drinking patterns for autistic and non-autistic youth, and within each group between abstinent or infrequent drinkers (0–1 drinking episodes in past year) versus those who drank 2 + times in past year.

Results

Autistic (vs. non-autistic) youth who drank did so less frequently and consumed fewer drinks per occasion. However, 15% of autistic youth who drank in the past year reported heavy episodic drinking and 9.3% screened positive for AUDIT-C hazardous drinking. For autistic youth only, a diagnosis of depression, bullying or exclusion histories were positively associated with drinking 2 + times in the past year. Autistic youth who put more effort into masking autistic traits were less likely to report drinking 2 + times in the past year. As compared to non-autistic youth, autistic participants were less likely to drink for social reasons, to conform, or to enhance experiences, but drank to cope at similar rates.

Conclusion

Repeated and hazardous underage alcohol occur among autistic youth. Targeted prevention programs designed to address the specific drinking profiles of autistic youth are needed.
The Earlier, the Better? An In-Depth Interview Study on the Ethics of Early Detection with Parents of Children at an Elevated Likelihood for Autism
Authors: Vanaken Gert-Jan , Noens Ilse , Steyaert Jean , van Esch Lotte , Warreyn Petra , Hens Kristien
Published: September 2023

Autism is increasingly viewed as an expression of neurodiversity deserving accommodation, rather than merely as a disorder in need of remediation or even prevention. This reconceptualization has inspired calls to broaden the ethical debate on early autism care beyond matters of efficient screenings and effective interventions. We conducted 14 in-depth interviews with 26 parents of infants at an increased likelihood for autism (siblings, preterms and children with persistent feeding difficulties) to understand which benefits and risks these parents see for the implementation of a systematic, early autism detection program in our region. With this study, we aim to contribute empirically to the ethical debate on good and just early autism care in the age of neurodiversity. Data were analyzed according to the QUAGOL-methodology. Three main themes emerged from our analysis. In their evaluation of early autism detection, parents discussed how a diagnosis helps gain a different perspective fostering understanding and recognition for both child and parent. Second, a diagnosis supports parents in adjusting their parenting practices, to justify this deviation from “normal” parenting and to strive for such adjusted environments beyond the nuclear family. Third, an autism diagnosis induces ambiguities parents need to navigate, involving questions on whether and when to mobilize the diagnostic label and which language to use to talk about autism. We discuss the complex position of parents of a (potentially) autistic child in terms of moving back and forth across the ab/normal binary and describe implications for the ethical debate on early autism detection.
The Mechanism Underlying the Relationship Between Positive References to God and Sobriety in Alcoholics Anonymous in Poland
Authors: Wnuk Marcin
Published: September 2023

Spiritual struggles are common for religion-affiliated and non-affiliated individuals, religious skeptics, agnostics, and atheists. They gain particular importance for people under significant stress, such as those who are alcohol dependent. This study examined the role of positive religious coping and God’s support in the spiritual growth and recovery of alcohol-dependent individuals participating in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The study was cross-sectional. The participants were 115 alcohol-dependent individuals from Poland who were members of AA. A path analysis statistical method was used. The research emphasized the beneficial role of strong God’s support in the relationship between positive religious coping and spiritual growth, abstinence, and happiness. The mechanism underlying the relationship between positive religious coping, God’s support, spiritual growth, and recovery was confirmed. God’s support was a moderator in the relationship between positive religious coping and spiritual growth. In a group with stronger God’s support, positive religious coping was positively related to spiritual growth, which in turn was associated with a happy and alcohol-abstinent life for alcohol-dependent individuals participating in AA. Among individuals with weak God’s support, positive religious coping was not directly related to spiritual growth, nor was it indirectly related to recovery through spiritual growth. Theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed.
Investigation of Dispersion Kinetics of Particulate Lubricants and their Effect on the Mechanical Strength of MCC Tablets
Authors: Puckhaber Daniel , Kwade Arno , Finke Jan Henrik
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Tablets are commonly produced by internally adding particulate lubricants, which are known to possibly lower the mechanical strength of tablets. This reduction is caused by the coverage of matrix forming components by lubricant particles, resulting in decreased interparticulate interactions. The known incompatibilities with some active compounds of the predominantly used lubricant, magnesium stearate, call for the in-depth characterization of alternative lubricants.

Purpose

Investigation of the dispersion behavior of five commonly applied pharmaceutical lubricants by mathematically modeling the dispersion kinetics for short and extended mixing times.

Methods

The dispersion behavior of five different pharmaceutical lubricants were examined by systematically varying lubricant concentration and mixing time of binary formulations and evaluating the kinetic of tensile strength reduction by theoretically estimating the surface coverage based on particle sizes.

Results

For short mixing times, a unifying relationship between compactibility reduction and theoretical surface coverage was identified. Subsequently, for extended mixing times, distinct differences in the shear strength and dispersion kinetics of the investigated lubricants were found.

Conclusions

The lubricant particle size controls the tensile strength reduction if short mixing times are applied. For extended mixing times, the investigated lubricants can be divided into two groups in terms of dispersion kinetics. Possible underlying reasons are discussed in detail in order to enhance the general understanding of lubricant dispersions in tablet formulations.
Perceptual consciousness and intensional transitive verbs
Authors: D’Ambrosio Justin , Stoljar Daniel
Published: September 2023

There is good reason to think that, in every case of perceptual consciousness, there is something of which we are conscious; but there is also good reason to think that, in some cases of perceptual consciousness—for instance, hallucinations—there is nothing of which we are conscious. This paper resolves this inconsistency—which we call the presentation problem—by (a) arguing that ‘conscious of’ and related expressions function as intensional transitive verbs and (b) defending a particular semantic approach to such verbs, on which they have readings that lack direct objects or themes. The paper further argues that this approach serves not only as a linguistic proposal about the semantics of ‘conscious of’, but also as a proposal about the metaphysics of conscious states.
Shallow-Water Habitat in the Lower Columbia River Estuary: A Highly Altered System
Authors: Templeton William J. , Jay David A. , Diefenderfer Heida L. , Talke Stefan A.
Published: September 2023

Decreases in shallow-water habitat area (SWHA) in the Lower Columbia River and Estuary (LCRE) have adversely affected salmonid populations. We investigate the causes by hindcasting SWHA from 1928 to 2004, system-wide, based on daily higher high water (HHW) and system hypsometry. Physics-based regression models are used to represent HHW along the system as a function of river inflow, tides, and coastal processes, and hypsometry is used to estimate the associated SWHA. Scenario modeling is employed to attribute SWHA losses to levees, flow regulation, diversion, navigational development, and climate-induced hydrologic change, for subsidence scenarios of up to 2 m, and for 0.5 m fill. For zero subsidence, the system-wide annual-average loss of SWHA is 55 ± 5%, or 51 × 105 ha/year; levees have caused the largest decrease ($${54}_{-14}^{+5}$$54-14+5%, or ~ 50 × 105 ha/year). The loss in SWHA due to operation of the hydropower system is small, but spatially and seasonally variable. During the spring freshet critical to juvenile salmonids, the total SWHA loss was$${63}_{-3}^{+2}$$63-3+2%, with the hydropower system causing losses of 5–16% (depending on subsidence). Climate change and navigation have caused SWHA losses of$${5}_{-5}^{+16}$$5-5+16% and$${4}_{-6}^{+14}$$4-6+14%, respectively, but with high spatial variability; irrigation impacts have been small. Uncertain subsidence causes most of the uncertainty in estimates; the sum of the individual factors exceeds the total loss, because factors interact. Any factor that reduces mean or peak flows (reservoirs, diversion, and climate change) or alters tides and along-channel slope (navigation) becomes more impactful as assumed historical elevations are increased to account for subsidence, while levees matter less.
Calabi–Yau structures on (quasi-)bisymplectic algebras
Authors: Bozec Tristan , Calaque Damien , Scherotzke Sarah
Published: September 2023

We show that relative Calabi–Yau structures on noncommutative moment maps give rise to (quasi-)bisymplectic structures, as introduced by Crawley-Boevey–Etingof–Ginzburg (in the additive case) and Van den Bergh (in the multiplicative case). We prove along the way that the fusion process (a) corresponds to the composition of Calabi–Yau cospans with ‘pair-of-pants’ ones and (b) preserves the duality between non-degenerate double quasi-Poisson structures and quasi-bisymplectic structures.

As an application, we obtain that Van den Bergh’s Poisson structures on the moduli spaces of representations of deformed multiplicative preprojective algebras coincide with the ones induced by the

$2$

-Calabi–Yau structures on (dg-versions of) these algebras.
Caring for an Aged Mother: Unsettling of Ethics
Authors: Nair Sharada
Published: September 2023

Finding myself having to look after a mother grown old and infirm, the dilemmas in the practice of care as a moral value have been sharply foregrounded—for this is a mother with whom I have clashed my entire life. Though typically taken for granted at the time, there is no denying the enduring effect of the care provided by a dedicated mother. But, over the years, this has become fissured by an acute sense of dismay, with the gradual realization that her solicitude formed part of an earnestly held, conservative, moralized gender position, which I grew to reject. Her dependence on and recognition of me as a daughter arouse intense emotions, but equally intense are the anger and resentment arising out of her stubborn refusal to even consider the difference between her and my conceptions of woman. Though agitated and alienated by this obstinacy, I find myself, nevertheless, bound to this unfreedom of geriatric care.
Nosocomial outbreak in a respiratory ward caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA 5.2.1 subvariant associated with non-severe illness in vaccinated patients
Authors: Gopal Rao Guduru , Jinjika Shamiso , James Dianne , Mukombe Nyarayi , Patel Bharat , Chietcheu Amelie , Macmanus Christine , Adeboyeku David , Davies Emma , Brown Benjamin
Published: September 2023

In this short report, we describe an outbreak of COVID-19 caused by Omicron subvariant BA.5.2.1 in highly vaccinated patients in a respiratory ward in a large acute general hospital in North West London, United Kingdom. The attack rate was high (14/33 (42%)) but the clinical impact was relatively non-severe including in patients who were at high risk of severe COVID-19. Twelve of fourteen patients had COVID-19 vaccinations. There was only one death due to COVID-19 pneumonitis. The findings of this outbreak investigation suggest that while the transmissibility of Omicron BA.5.2.1 subvariant is high, infections caused by this strain are non-severe in vaccinated patients, even if they are at high risk of severe COVID-19 infection.
Detecting cognitive decline in high-functioning older adults: The relationship between subjective cognitive concerns, frequency of high neuropsychological test scores, and the frontoparietal control network
Authors: Karr Justin E. , Hakun Jonathan G. , Elbich Daniel B. , Pinheiro Cristina N. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Segerstrom Suzanne C.
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Neuropsychologists have difficulty detecting cognitive decline in high-functioning older adults because greater neurological change must occur before cognitive performances are low enough to indicate decline or impairment. For high-functioning older adults, early neurological changes may correspond with subjective cognitive concerns and an absence of high scores. This study compared high-functioning older adults with and without subjective cognitive concerns, hypothesizing those with cognitive concerns would have fewer high scores on neuropsychological testing and lower frontoparietal network volume, thickness, and connectivity.

Method:

Participants had high estimated premorbid functioning (e.g., estimated intelligence ≥75th percentile or college-educated) and were divided based on subjective cognitive concerns. Participants with cognitive concerns (n = 35; 74.0 ± 9.6 years old, 62.9% female, 94.3% White) and without cognitive concerns (n = 33; 71.2 ± 7.1 years old, 75.8% female, 100% White) completed a neuropsychological battery of memory and executive function tests and underwent structural and resting-state magnetic resonance imaging, calculating frontoparietal network volume, thickness, and connectivity.

Results:

Participants with and without cognitive concerns had comparable numbers of low test scores (≤16th percentile), p = .103, d = .40. Participants with cognitive concerns had fewer high scores (≥75th percentile), p = .004, d = .71, and lower mean frontoparietal network volumes (left: p = .004, d = .74; right: p = .011, d = .66) and cortical thickness (left: p = .010, d = .66; right: p = .033, d = .54), but did not differ in network connectivity.

Conclusions:

Among high-functioning older adults, subjective cognitive decline may correspond with an absence of high scores on neuropsychological testing and underlying changes in the frontoparietal network that would not be detected by a traditional focus on low cognitive test scores.
Hydroinformatics: A review and future outlook
Authors: Loucks Daniel P.
Published: September 2023

Hydroinformatics is a technology that combines information and communications technologies together with various disciplinary optimization and simulation models that focus on the management of water. This paper reviews the historical development of hydroinformatics and summarizes the current state of this technology. It describes the range of modeling tools and applications currently described in hydroinformatics literature. The paper concludes with some speculations about possible future developments in hydroinformatics.
Narrow Width Farley‐Buneman Spectra Above 100 km Altitude
Authors: St‐Maurice Jean‐Pierre , Huyghebaert Devin , Ivarsen Magnus F. , Hussey Glenn C.
Published: September 2023

For spectra associated with full turbulence the observed mean phase velocity of unstable Farley‐Buneman waves has been found not to exceed the ion‐acoustic speed, cs. This has been attributed to various nonlinear processes. However, weakly turbulent modes are also excited on the edge of the “instability cone.” These modes have to be actual eigenmodes predicted by linear instability theory near‐threshold conditions. Unlike the modes that are associated with strong turbulence, these weakly turbulent modes are affected by the ion drift. This can make the Doppler shift of narrow spectra reach as high as the E × B drift velocity in the upper portion of the unstable layer at small aspect angles. Slow narrow spectra are also predicted nearer the E direction. We have produced a model of the Doppler shift of narrow‐width spectra under various electric field conditions above 100 km altitude. While the fluid dispersion relation is used to clarity the physics, we have also found the eigenmodes from an accepted kinetic dispersion relation. The calculations include a new model of the ion‐acoustic speed based on an empirical model of the electron temperature and of ion frictional heating under strong electric field conditions. The model provides an explanation for various VHF observations of the Doppler shift of narrow spectra that have been called “Type III spectra” and “Type IV spectra” in the existing literature.
Interdecadal Variability in the Interface Between the Indian Summer Monsoon and the East Asian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Gui Shu , Yang Ruowen , Zeng Feng , Cheng Jinxin
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the interdecadal variability (IDV) of the interface between the Indian summer monsoon and the East Asian summer monsoon (IIE). Results suggest that the IDV of the IIE is characterized by a uniform zonal movement associated with seesaw variations between the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) and the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM). The IDV of the IIE is closely linked to two air–sea coupled modes: one resembles the Asian–Pacific Oscillation (APO) and the other resembles the North Atlantic tripole (NAT) pattern. Both the APO‐like and NAT‐like patterns facilitate an eastward shift of the IIE during their positive phase. The APO‐like mode strengthens the western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH), which further enhances the climatological southwesterly wind over East Asia and leads to an intensification of the EASM. The simultaneous anticyclonic anomaly over the India and Bay of Bengal (BOB) region weakens the ISM. The NAT‐like mode forces a wave train of alternating cyclonic and anticyclonic anomalies across Eurasia, causing southwesterly anomalies over East Asia that favors a stronger EASM. The atmospheric response is reversed during the negative phases of the APO‐like and NAT‐like patterns. Recent decades have seen a weakening influence of the APO‐like mode, but a growing impact of the NAT‐like mode on the IIE‐IDV. The interdecadal transition of the IIE–APO and IIE–NAT relationships has a smaller influence on the IIE than that of the phase change of the APO‐like and NAT‐like patterns. Modeling results confirm the influence of the APO‐like and NAT‐like patterns on the IIE‐IDV.
Mechanisms of Ageostrophic Wind Convergence in the Boundary Layer of Coastal Warm‐Sector Extreme Heavy Rainfall in South China
Authors: Xia Fan , Huang Xiaogang , Fei Jianfang , Wang Ju , Cheng Xiaoping , Zhang Chi
Published: September 2023

The South China coast has a high incidence of warm‐sector heavy rainfall (WSHR) events. The ageostrophic winds in the boundary layer in most of these events associated with the southwesterly boundary layer jets (BLJs) mainly exhibit strong convergence at rainfall area. In this paper, we analyze two case studies of WSHR in May 2013 and May 2015, which occurred in similar synoptic environments but varied in intensity, extent, and duration of rainfall, where the ageostrophic winds are the confrontational confluence and asymptotic confluence pattern, respectively. ERA‐5 reanalysis data and the diagnostic equation of ageostrophic wind are used to examine the factors affecting the ageostrophic winds in the northern land region and the southern offshore region of the rainfall. The results suggest that land‐sea contrast leads to the convergence of ageostrophic winds in the rainfall area. Boundary layer friction dominates the northeasterly ageostrophic winds on land. The diurnal variation of BLJs dominates the ageostrophic winds and their diurnal variation at sea. It can contribute southwesterly or southeasterly ageostrophic winds, so the phase difference between the land and sea forms confrontational or asymptotic confluence, respectively. BLJs with different intensities, extents, and diurnal variations can lead to different ageostrophic wind patterns and their confluence modes. The land‐sea thermal contrast can directly affect ageostrophic winds, and it can also affect the diurnal variation of BLJs, thus affecting the ageostrophic winds and their confluence mode. It is further verified that the BLJs and thermal forcing are important in WSHR processes in South China.