bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Resilience in Construction Risk Management: A Case Study on Peruvian Road Infrastructure
Authors: Flores Victor Andre Ariza , Portocarrero Euler
Published: March 2024

This research work describes the process of applying resilient risk management on a Peruvian road, as well as the results obtained in the application of this methodology in terms of cost parameters and the perception of project members through surveys. The sample corresponds to the road infrastructure project called "Improvement of the Oyón - Ambo National Road, Section II" located in the high Andean zone of the Pasco region in Peru from 3300 m above sea level to 4800 m above sea level. The research covered a period of 13 months, from June 2020 to June 2021, identifying up to 61 types of frequent risks. The presence of high rainfall was the risk with the greatest impact during the execution of the work; but identifying it, analysing it and planning the anticipated response through a resilient approach allowed corrective actions to be taken that led to recovering the maximum delay in the execution.
Cartographic modeling of demographic processes using remote sensing data
Authors: Abdurakhmonov Sarvar , Ochilov Shodiqul , Tukhtamishev Shukhrat , Urokov Olim , Berdikulov Usmonjon , Azzamov Giyos
Published: March 2024

This study explores the intricate interactions between demographic processes and spatial variables through the lens of cartographic modeling, leveraging remote sensing data for enhanced precision. Land cover classifications reveal the dominance of urban and agricultural landscapes, setting the stage for a nuanced examination of demographic dynamics. Spatial correlations highlight the interdependencies between demographic variables, while regression coefficients provide insights into their impacts on the overall cartographic model. Predictive accuracy assessments validate the model's robustness, and spatial autocorrelation analyses unveil geographic clustering of demographic patterns. The integration of remote sensing data proves instrumental in enhancing the granularity of our understanding, offering valuable insights for sustainable urban planning and resource allocation. While acknowledging limitations, this study contributes to the broader discourse on urban development, offering a comprehensive framework for policymakers and researchers to make informed decisions in the context of evolving demographic and spatial dynamics.
Enrichment of manufactured waste at the AMMC copper processing factory in Uzbekistan
Authors: Makhmarezhabov Dilmurod , Bekpulatov Javlon , Salizhanova Gulnarakhon , Amindjanova Sevara , Abdurasulova Zarina , Rasulova Shakhnoza
Published: March 2024

This article is devoted to the additional extraction of valuable components from the waste tailings of the AMMC copper processing plant. The mineral composition of the waste tailings of the CCP is mainly represented by quartz, feldspars, sericites and, in a subordinate amount, mafic and secondary minerals. Pyrite is the most widespread ore mineral in the waste tailings of the CCP. Chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, molybdenite, and iron oxides are also noted. The copper content in the selected spot samples from tailings after chemical analysis averaged 0.139%. A sieve analysis was carried out to determine the granulometric composition of waste tailings, the distribution of valuable components by size classes. On the basis of the obtained results on the study of the material composition, flotation of tailings of the CCP AMMC was carried out with recleaning of the main flotation concentrate. During tailings flotation with one recleaning of the main flotation concentrate, the extraction of copper and molybdenum into the total concentrate is 56.8% and 63.8%, respectively.
Transport ecology in the context of the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Shadimetov Yusufzhan , Ayrapetov Dmitriy
Published: March 2024

The work is devoted to the analysis of the latest data on the study of socio-hygienic and environmental consequences, a pandemic in conditions of a high level of atmospheric air pollution, the effect of solid and gaseous components of exhaust gases from automobiles and industry on human health and the environment.The object of the study is the atmospheric air polluted by the viral infection COVID-19. Action to tackle air pollution is particularly relevant in the wake of the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, according to research from the Harvard School of Public Health (USA), which Bellona has already written about, as well as reports from European scientists at the University of Siena School of Medicine (Italy). The dependence of health and mortality rates on air quality is a fact repeatedly confirmed. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), currently 9 out of 10 people in the world breathe polluted air, and this leads to 7 million additional deaths annually. WHO officials say that one third of deaths from stroke, lung cancer and heart disease are due to air pollution: “This death is caused by exposure to fine particulate matter 2.5 microns or less (PM 2.5) in diameter, which leads to the development of cardiovascular, respiratory and oncological diseases".
Study on the influence of sideration on soil density and porosity
Authors: Kenjaev Yunus , Abdushukurova Zamira , Zakirova Salomat
Published: March 2024

It was achieved to improve agro physical properties of soil by forming of 22.41-52.92 t/ha green biomass of pea, chickpea, rape and barley when sown as green manure as well as tilling it into soil in summer July 10 wheat freed areas, and autumn October 10 cotton freed areas. It was determined that the mass of soil before the first irrigation of cotton in 0-20 cm tilling layer of soil with green manure applied variant was 0.06-0.08 g/cm3; 0.03-0.08 g/cm3 and it was less 0.05-0.07 g/cm3; 0.03-0.08 g/cm3 in 20-40 cm of soil layer relatively to control-without green manure variants. In its turn, it creates best and favorable condition of branching root system of cotton-plant and will be achieved to get high and quality yield.
Effect of Al-Ti complex deoxidation mode on steel cleanliness during RH refining of IF steels
Authors: Yu Huixiang , Deng Xiaoxuan , Huo Wencong , Xie Hui
Published: March 2024

The deoxidation in Ti containing Al killed IF steels is a vital parameter that directly influences the steel cleanliness. In this study, the evolution of steel compositions and inclusion characteristics during RH refining of IF steels were investigated by industrial trials involving three Al-Ti deoxidation modes, which were adding Ti-Fe 2 min after Al deoxidation in Mode I, adding Al and Ti-Fe simultaneously in Mode II, and adding Ti alloys with two equal batches at 3.2 min and 5 min after Al deoxidation in Mode III. The results showed that nitrogen pickup of several ppm was observed with Ti-Fe alloy addition. Therefore, nitrogen content in alloys should be strictly controlled. The main inclusions were single alumina particles, alumina clusters, alumina cluster with Al-Ti oxides, and Al-Ti complex oxides. Mode III had less amount of Al-Ti oxides compared with Mode I, and Mode II had a much higher proportion of Ti bearing inclusions than Mode I and Mode III at RH end. For Mode I & Mode III, the inclusion removal rate was 0.33–0.35 min−1 before adding Ti, and slowed down to 0.14 min−1 for Mode I and 0.22 min−1 for Mode III after Ti-Fe addition. While for Mode II, the rate was only 0.18 min−1. Mode III was the recommended mode for its excellent steel cleanliness and high Ti yield with slight elongation of RH treating time.
Digitale Transformation und klinische Fälle im
Praxisalltag
Authors: Jung Britta A.
Published: March 2024

Sehr geehrte Kolleginnen und Kollegen!

Diese Ausgabe konzentriert sich auf die digitale Transformation und klinische
Fälle im Praxisalltag, in der wir auch Kollegen aus der Praxis zu Wort
kommen lassen. Den Anfang der Ausgabe macht Herr Prof. Şen aus Kiel, der
sich mit dem digitalen Workflow und der Integration von CAD/CAM-Technologien
in den Praxisalltag beschäftigt. Es werden praktische Beispiele und
vielfältige Möglichkeiten für die Nutzung von
CAD/CAM-Apparaturen in der kieferorthopädischen Therapie vor- und
dargestellt. Aber auch die Grenzen und mögliche Problemfelder werden
besprochen. Zusätzlich geben die Autoren Dr. Kutz und Dr.
Cudovic/Dr. Schneider-Del Savio anhand von Fallbeispielen Einblick in Ihren
Praxisalltag.
Homöopathische Behandlung der Sinusitis
Authors: Schreiner Michael
Published: March 2024

Obwohl die Infektion der Nasennebenhöhlen primär fast immer viral bedingt ist,
werden heute in den meisten Fällen weiterhin Antibiotika verordnet. Dies führt
oft nur zu einer vorübergehenden Linderung der Beschwerden und häufigen
Rezidiven. Die homöopathische Behandlung zielt ab auf eine schnelle, sichere
Symptomlinderung und eine vollständige Heilung der Krankheit. In unserer Praxis
haben sich einige Arzneimittel bei der Behandlung der Sinusitis besonders
bewährt. Diese werden im vorliegenden Artikel auch anhand von Falldarstellungen
besprochen.
Data Mining in der Homöopathie
Authors: Schäferkordt Rainer
Published: March 2024

Ein datengetriebener Forschungsansatz entspringt dem Ursprungsgedanken der
Homöopathie, der mit modernen statistischen Konzepten in das 21. Jahrhundert
überführt werden und zur Weiterentwicklung einer wissenschaftlichen Identität
beitragen kann. Eine Agenda zur Methodenforschung, die auf einer vollständig
verschlagworteten Materia medica basiert, wird vorgestellt.
Akute Tonsillitis – mit dem Symptomenlexikon gelöst
Authors: Harte Margarete
Published: March 2024

Mit der von Michael Kohl erarbeiteten und verbreiteten Methode konnte ein Fall
einer eitrigen Tonsillitis ausschließlich mit einem homöopathischen Mittel
geheilt werden. Im Artikel werden die Mittelfindung und der Fallverlauf
detailliert dargestellt. Bei der Mittelfindung mithilfe des Symptomenlexikons
wird zunächst auf die Symptomenauswahl und die genutzten Rubriken eingegangen,
bevor die Differenzierung der infrage kommenden Mittel erläutert wird.
Obstetric and Neonatal Outcomes Following Hospital Transfers of Home Births and Births in Midwife-led Units in Austria
Authors: Schildberger Barbara , Riedmann Marina , Leitner Hermann , Stelzl Patrick
Published: March 2024

Home births and births in midwife-led units and the associated potential risks are still
being debated. An analysis of the quality of results of planned home births and births in
midwife-led units which require intrapartum transfer of the mother to hospital provides
important information on the quality of processes during births which occur outside hospital
settings. The aim of this study was to analyze neonatal and maternal outcomes after the
initial plan to deliver at home or in a midwife-led unit had to be abandoned and the mother
transferred to hospital.

The method used was an analysis of data obtained from the Austrian Birth Registry. The
dataset consisted of singleton term pregnancies delivered in the period from 1 January 2017
to 31 December 2021 (n = 286056). For the analysis, two groups were created for comparison
(planned hospital births and hospital births recorded in the Registry as births originally
planned as home births or births in midwife-led units but which required a transfer to
hospital) and assessed with regard to previously defined variables. Data were analyzed using
frequency description, bivariate analysis and regression models.

In Austria, an average of 19% of planned home births have to be discontinued and the
mother transferred to hospital. Home births and births in midwife-led units which require
transfer of the mother to hospital are associated with higher intervention rates
intrapartum, high rates of vacuum delivery, and higher emergency c-section rates compared to
planned hospital births. Multifactorial regression analysis showed significantly higher
risks of poorer scores for all neonatal outcome parameters (Apgar score, pH value, transfer
rate).

If a birth which was planned as a home delivery or as a delivery in a midwife-led unit
fails to progress because of (possible) anomalies, the midwife must respond and transfer the
mother to hospital. This leads to a higher percentage of clinical interventions occurring in
hospital. From the perspective of clinical obstetrics, it is understandable, based on the
existing data, that giving birth outside a clinical setting cannot be recommended.
ESPRAS Survey: National and European Societies for Plastic
Surgeons
Authors: Giunta Riccardo E. , Schaefer Dirk Johannes , Demirdöver Cenk , Di Benedetto Giovanni , Elander Anna , Zic Rado , Georgescu Alexandru , Henley Mark , Spendel Stephan , Saboye Jacques , Schultz Inkeri , Kneafsey Brian , Psaras Georgius , Verstreken Frederik , Stark Birgit , Santanelli di Pompeo Fabio , Kaartinen Ilkka , Ylä-Kotola Tuija , Ahm Sørensen Jens , Gilis Janis , Rakhorst Hinne , Aquilina Duncan , Fradinho Nuno , Foroglou Pericles , Nunez-Villaveiran Maria Teresa , Jeffers Lynn , Karabeg Reuf , Yankov Daniel , Nürnberger Tim , Kuhlmann Constanze
Published: March 2024

Background The European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic
Surgery (ESPRAS) comprises 40 national societies across Europe. In addition to
ESPRAS, there are 8 different European Plastic Surgery societies representing
Plastic Surgeons in Europe. The 4th European Leadership Forum (ELF)
of ESPRAS, held under the motto “Stronger together in Europe” in Munich in 2023,
aimed to collect and disseminate information regarding the national member
societies of ESPRAS and European societies for Plastic Surgeons. The purpose was
to identify synergies and redundancies and promote improved cooperation and
exchange to enhance coordinated decision-making at the European level.

Material and methods An online survey was conducted regarding the
organisational structures, objectives and challenges of national and European
societies for Plastic Surgeons in Europe. This survey was distributed to
official representatives (Presidents, Vice Presidents and General Secretaries)
and delegates of national and European societies at the ELF meeting. Missing
information was completed using data obtained from the official websites of the
respective European societies. Preliminary results were discussed during the
4th ELF meeting in Munich in March 2023.

Results The ESPRAS survey included 22 national and 9 European Plastic
Surgery societies representing more than 7000 Plastic Surgeons in Europe. Most
national societies consist of less than 500 full members (median 182 members
(interquartile range (IQR) 54–400); n=22). European societies, which covered the
full spectrum or subspecialities, differed in membership types and congress
cycles, with some requiring applications by individuals and others including
national societies. The main purposes of the societies include research,
representation against other disciplines, specialisation and education as well
as more individual goals like patient care and policy regulation.

Conclusion This ESPRAS survey offers key insights into the structures,
requirements and challenges of national and European societies for Plastic
Surgeons, highlighting the relevance of ongoing close exchange between the
societies to foster professional advancement and reduce redundancies. Future
efforts of the ELF will continue to further explore strategies for enhancing
collaboration and harmonisation within the European Plastic Surgery
landscape.
Cephalometric Evaluation in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea undergoing Lateral Pharyngoplasty
Authors: Zanco Stephanie Regiane Prata Ferreira , Duarte Bruno Bernardo , Almeida Aurélio Rochael , Mendonça José Alexandre
Published: March 2024

Introduction Lateral pharyngoplasty (LP) has shown promising results. Craniofacial deformity reduces the pharyngeal space, contributing to the etiopathogenesis. The analysis of craniofacial features can be performed using cephalometry.

Objective To verify if craniofacial deformity is associated with worse polysomnographic data in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and to verify if the preoperative cephalometric parameters can interfere with the surgical success of the LP.

Methods The study included 21 patients with OSA aged between 18 and 65 years who underwent LP in a university hospital from 2015 to 2019. Polysomnography was performed postoperatively, after a minimum period of 6 months from the surgical procedure. In addition, a cephalometric evaluation was performed to assess craniofacial deformity, and to correlate it with the polysomnographic results.

Results The mean and median of all polysomnographic respiratory parameters improved postoperatively, especially the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which went from 40.15 to 16.60 events per hour (p = 0.001). Of the 21 patients, 15 showed improvements in the AHI postoperatively. As for the cephalometric evaluations, we found that the longer the distance between the hyoid bone and the mandibular plane, the greater the patient's preoperative AHI (p = 0.011). When assessing whether cephalometric changes related to craniofacial deformities influence the surgical outcome of LP, no correlation was found for any cephalometric measurement.

Conclusion The longer the distance between the hyoid bone and the mandibular plane, the greater the preoperative AHI, and LP was an effective OSA treatment. Cephalometric variables are not able to modify or determine the success of LP in apneic patients in the population assessed.
Circumferential skin defect - Ilizarov technique in plastic surgery
Authors: Madhuri Vrisha , Kurpad Shankar R. , Nithyananth Manasseh , Jepegnanam Thilak S , Titus V. T. K. , Dhanraj Prema
Published: March 2024

A young man had an open fracture of the tibia with bone and soft tissue loss in the distal part of thecontrolled lengthening of the distal skin by the lIizarov technique using nylon wires and skin staples to apply traction. This was combined with limb reconstruction done simultaneously using orthofix external fixator. This case report highlights the use of an orthopaedic technique to provide skin cover in distal leg.
Scarless platysmaplasty for platysmal bands
Authors: Shiffman Melvin A. , Mirrafati Sid
Published: March 2024

Transection of plastysmal bands has required a surgical approach that leaves scars and limits patient activities for a period of time. The author has developed a sirnple method to transect the platysmal bands under local anesthesia without resorting to skin incisions. The transection is performed with the use of a Vicryl® suture that is inserted through the skin, around the platysmal band, and then out thiOugh the original entry pOint. A back and forih motion of the suture cuts through the band.
Median cleft of mandible and lower lip with ankyloglossia and ectopic minor salivary gland on tongue
Authors: Rana Roshani E. , Puri Vinita A. , Thakkur Rahul K. , Baliarsing A. S.
Published: March 2024

Median cleft of lower lip and mandible is a rare anomaly. This Cleft has also been described as Cleft No. 30 of Tessier's classification. In minor forms only lower lip is cleft. Frequently, the cleft extends into the mandibular symphysis and the tongue is attached to the cleft alveolar margin. At times the tongue may be bifid or absent, hyoid absent, thyroid cartilage underdeveloped, strap muscles atrophic, manubrium sterni absent, clavicles widely spaced etc. The earliest report of this anomaly was by Couronne' in 1819. Since then very few cases have been reported in literature with variations. We describe a male child who presented at the age of 6 months with an ectopic salivary gland on the dorsum of the tongue in addition to median cleft of lower lip, ankyloglossia and notching of the mandible. Excision of mass on dorsum of tongue, release of ankyloglossia and lip from the alveolus followed by repair was done. No bony work was done since the mandible was only notched. On post-operative follow-up at 18 months, dentition was delayed in both maxillary as well as mandibular teeth and there was a gap between the lower central incisors. At the age of 2 years 4 months, the dentition is still not complete and the gap between the lower central incisors is very apparent. There is a supernumerary upper central incisor on right side. There is no mobility between the two segments of mandible. Speech is normal. A regular follow-up will be done to study the eruption of permanent central incisors at the age of 7 years and till eruption of all permanent teeth to assess the occlusion and to decide whether any bony work is needed or not.
Closed rupture of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon of little finger: A case report
Authors: Agarwal Pawan
Published: March 2024

Closed rupture of the FOP tendon is rare. However, whenever they occur the most common site of rupture is the tendon-bone insertion, less frequent site is at the musculo-tendinous junction. Midsubstance ruptures are even more unique and are usually due to underlying pathology such as fracture, cystic degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis, or sequel following local steroid injection. This report describes a closed rupture of FOP tendon of little finger. Mechanism of injury, diagnosis and management are discussed.
Macromastia of pregnancy: A unique presentation of this rare clinicohistopathological entity
Authors: Sarda Anil K , Kulshreshta Vishal N , Bhalla Shweta A , Singh Lakhwinder , Chaturvedi Uma K
Published: March 2024

The present case is a unique presentation of a patient who developed a small lump in her breast during her first pregnancy but it was only during her third pregnancy that it increased in size and became a huge fungating mass. Although, gigantic sizes of this pathologic entity have been reported, the present case had the involved breast hanging till below the inguinal ligament and required sling to support the breast. Since the pre-operative diagnosis was suggestive of cystosarcoma phylloides, no attempt at reconstructive surgery was contemplated.
Vibrational signatures of dynamic excess proton storage between primary amine and carboxylic acid groups
Authors: Gámez F. , Avilés-Moreno J. R. , Finazzi Laura , Martens J. , Berden G. , Oomens J. , Martínez-Haya B.
Published: March 2024

Ammonium and carboxylic moieties play a central role in proton-mediated processes of molecular recognition, charge transfer or chemical change in (bio)materials. Whereas both chemical groups constitute acid–base pairs in organic salt-bridge structures, they may as well host excess protons in acidic environments. The binding of excess protons often precedes proton transfer reactions and it is therefore of fundamental interest, though challenging from a quantum chemical perspective. As a benchmark for this process, we investigate proton storage in the amphoteric compound 5-aminovaleric acid (AV), within an intramolecular proton bond shared by its primary amine and carboxylic acid terminal groups. Infrared ion spectroscopy is combined with ab initio Molecular Dynamics (AIMD) calculations to expose and rationalize the spectral signatures of protonated AV and its deuterated isotopologues. The dynamic character of the proton bond confers a fluxional structure to the molecular framework, leading to wide-ranging bands in the vibrational spectrum. These features are reproduced with remarkable accuracy by AIMD computations, which serves to lay out microscopic insights into the excess proton binding scenario.
Extended odd Weibull–Lindley distribution
Authors: Eissa Fatehi Yahya , Sonar Chhaya Dhanraj
Published: March 2024

A novel extension of the Lindley and Weibull distributions is proposed in this article by combining the Lindley distribution with the extended odd Weibull family, termed the extended odd Weibull–Lindley (EOWL) distribution. The statistical properties of the EOWL distribution are derived, including a linear representation for its probability density function, moments, quantiles, and moment generation functions. Three parameter estimation methods (maximum likelihood, maximum spacing product, and least squares estimations) are explored. Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the estimator methods. Finally, in order to illustrate the flexibility and validity of the proposed distribution, three real datasets are employed. The results show that the EOWL distribution demonstrates a superior fitting performance compared to other established distributions.
Study on condensation of oily particles under the influence of water vapor phase transition
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Qi , Yang Luying , Li Tian , Yang Yang
Published: March 2024

To address the problem that oily fine particles are too small to be easily captured by traditional dust removal equipment, which hinders improving the purification efficiency, this paper proposes using the technical principle of water vapor phase transition to conduct experiments and simulations. A set of water vapor experimental devices for fine particles of oil mist is designed, and the data are analyzed by a Grimm spectrometer. The experimental results show the phase change of water vapor has a remarkable effect on the agglomeration of oily fine particles. Phase change condensation makes the particle size of fine particles increase by 5–10 times in a truly brief time, and the polymerization and removal efficiency are greatly improved. To analyze the changes of the coalescence characteristics in a larger range of parameter changes, the Euler multiphase flow model is adopted, the particle condensation growth rate function is introduced by a user-defined function to establish a coalescence model and the heterogeneous condensation growth characteristics of oily particles are analyzed in a supersaturated water vapor environment. The simulation results show that the condensing chamber temperature of the condensing chamber is 283 K, and the lower the air flow rate of the condensing chamber, the more favorable the heterogeneous condensation growth of oil particles. The change rule of agglomeration characteristics of oily particles obtained by experiment and simulation proves the feasibility of improving the removal efficiency of oily fine particles.
Correlation-informed ordered dictionary learning for imaging in complex media
Authors: Moscoso Miguel , Novikov Alexei , Papanicolaou George , Tsogka Chrysoula
Published: March 2024

We propose a method for imaging in scattering media when large and diverse datasets are available. It has two steps. Using a dictionary learning algorithm the first step estimates the true Green’s function vectors as columns in an unordered sensing matrix. The array data comes from many sparse sets of sources whose location and strength are not known to us. In the second step, the columns of the estimated sensing matrix are ordered for imaging using the multidimensional scaling algorithm with connectivity information derived from cross-correlations of its columns, as in time reversal. For these two steps to work together, we need data from large arrays of receivers so the columns of the sensing matrix are incoherent for the first step, as well as from sub-arrays so that they are coherent enough to obtain connectivity needed in the second step. Through simulation experiments, we show that the proposed method is able to provide images in complex media whose resolution is that of a homogeneous medium.
Diamond surface functionalization via visible light–driven C–H activation for nanoscale quantum sensing
Authors: Rodgers Lila V. H. , Nguyen Suong T. , Cox James H. , Zervas Kalliope , Yuan Zhiyang , Sangtawesin Sorawis , Stacey Alastair , Jaye Cherno , Weiland Conan , Pershin Anton , Gali Adam , Thomsen Lars , Meynell Simon A. , Hughes Lillian B. , Jayich Ania C. Bleszynski , Gui Xin , Cava Robert J. , Knowles Robert R. , de Leon Nathalie P.
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are a promising platform for nanoscale NMR sensing. Despite significant progress toward using NV centers to detect and localize nuclear spins down to the single spin level, NV-based spectroscopy of individual, intact, arbitrary target molecules remains elusive. Such sensing requires that target molecules are immobilized within nanometers of NV centers with long spin coherence. The inert nature of diamond typically requires harsh functionalization techniques such as thermal annealing or plasma processing, limiting the scope of functional groups that can be attached to the surface. Solution-phase chemical methods can be readily generalized to install diverse functional groups, but they have not been widely explored for single-crystal diamond surfaces. Moreover, realizing shallow NV centers with long spin coherence times requires highly ordered single-crystal surfaces, and solution-phase functionalization has not yet been shown with such demanding conditions. In this work, we report a versatile strategy to directly functionalize C–H bonds on single-crystal diamond surfaces under ambient conditions using visible light, forming C–F, C–Cl, C–S, and C–N bonds at the surface. This method is compatible with NV centers within 10 nm of the surface with spin coherence times comparable to the state of the art. As a proof-of-principle demonstration, we use shallow ensembles of NV centers to detect nuclear spins from surface-bound functional groups. Our approach to surface functionalization opens the door to deploying NV centers as a tool for chemical sensing and single-molecule spectroscopy.
Single neurons in the thalamus and subthalamic nucleus process cardiac and respiratory signals in humans
Authors: De Falco Emanuela , Solcà Marco , Bernasconi Fosco , Babo-Rebelo Mariana , Young Nicole , Sammartino Francesco , Tallon-Baudry Catherine , Navarro Vincent , Rezai Ali R. , Krishna Vibhor , Blanke Olaf
Published: March 2024

Visceral signals are constantly processed by our central nervous system, enable homeostatic regulation, and influence perception, emotion, and cognition. While visceral processes at the cortical level have been extensively studied using non-invasive imaging techniques, very few studies have investigated how this information is processed at the single neuron level, both in humans and animals. Subcortical regions, relaying signals from peripheral interoceptors to cortical structures, are particularly understudied and how visceral information is processed in thalamic and subthalamic structures remains largely unknown. Here, we took advantage of intraoperative microelectrode recordings in patients undergoing surgery for deep brain stimulation (DBS) to investigate the activity of single neurons related to cardiac and respiratory functions in three subcortical regions: ventral intermedius nucleus (Vim) and ventral caudalis nucleus (Vc) of the thalamus, and subthalamic nucleus (STN). We report that the activity of a large portion of the recorded neurons (about 70%) was modulated by either the heartbeat, the cardiac inter-beat interval, or the respiration. These cardiac and respiratory response patterns varied largely across neurons both in terms of timing and their kind of modulation. A substantial proportion of these visceral neurons (30%) was responsive to more than one of the tested signals, underlining specialization and integration of cardiac and respiratory signals in STN and thalamic neurons. By extensively describing single unit activity related to cardiorespiratory function in thalamic and subthalamic neurons, our results highlight the major role of these subcortical regions in the processing of visceral signals.
Managing government debt
Authors: Jiang Wei , Sargent Thomas J. , Wang Neng , Yang Jinqiang
Published: March 2024

To construct a stochastic version of [R. J. Barro,
J. Polit. Econ.
87
, 940–971 (1979)] normative model of tax rates and debt/GDP dynamics, we add risks and markets for trading them along lines suggested by [K. J. Arrow,
Rev. Econ. Stud.
31
, 91–96 (1964)] and [R. J. Shiller, Creating Institutions for Managing Society’s Largest Economic Risks (OUP, Oxford, 1994)]. These modifications preserve Barro’s prescriptions that a government should keep its debt-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio and tax rate constant over time and also prescribe that the government insure its primary surplus risk by selling or buying the same number of shares of a Shiller macro security each period.
A fence of opportunity
Authors: Olivas Osuna José Javier
Published: March 2024

This article deconstructs the parliamentary discourses regarding two migratory incidents in Ceuta, May 2021, and
Melilla, June 2022, when hundreds of people attempted to cross the fences that separate Morocco from Spain. Most of them were
immediately deported, many injured, and several died. This analysis compares the density of populist, anti-populist, re-bordering,
and de-bordering references in forty-five speeches at the Spanish Congress regarding both tragic events. Vox speakers articulate a
distinct discourse that instrumentalises these incidents to convey a sense of existential crisis and to (re)define a populist
right-wing political identity based on moral hierarchies, a homogenising conception of society and the exclusion of a dangerous
“other.” Meanwhile some parties applied a populist logic to promote de-bordering views and others combined re-bordering and
de-bordering claims without imposing a populist frame. This was an opportunity to exhibit a progressive sense of place in
borderlands contrasting with Vox’s reactionary one.
Doped holographic superconductors in the Gubser–Rocha model
Authors: Zhao Ziyi , Cai Wenhe , Ishigaki Shuta
Published: March 2024

We construct a doped holographic superconductor in the Gubser–Rocha model, and realize a superconducting dome in the middle of the temperature-doping phase diagram. It is worth noting that unlike in previous research, the profile of our dome shrinks inward near to zero temperature. From the numerical observation for the coupling dependence of the phase diagram, we find that the coupling between the two gauge fields plays a crucial role in the formation of the dome. We also analytically calculate the DC conductivity of the normal phase of the system in the momentum dissipation and obtain resistivity which is proportional to the temperature. The AC conductivity is calculated numerically.
Holographic dark energy in non-conserved gravity theory
Authors: Fazlollahi H R
Published: March 2024

Recently, reconsidering the Rastall idea

T

μ
;
ν

ν

=

a

,
μ

through relativistic thermodynamics gives a new form for the scalar field

a

which led us to construct modern modified theory of gravity debugged ‘non-conserved gravity theory’ Fazlollahi 2023 Euro. Phys. J. C 83 923. This theory unlike other modified theories of gravity cannot directly explain the current acceleration expansion in the absence of the cosmological constant and or existence of other forms of dark energy. Hence, in this study we have reinvestigated holographic dark energy

ρ

X

∼

H

2

in the non-conserved theory of gravity. In this context, the density and pressure of dark energy depend on the non-conserved term and density of the dust matter field. As shown, due to non-conservation effects on large-scale structures, unlike the original holographic model, our model onsets an acceleration epoch for the current Universe satisfies observations. Moreover, the interaction and viscous scenarios are studied for this model.
Bringing Krishna Back to India
Authors: Robison Claire C
Published: March 2024

The Hare Krishnas have long been associated with American hippie culture and New Age religious movements. But they have developed deeply rooted communities in India and throughout the world over the past 50 years. Known officially as the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), this once-marginal religious community now wields vast economic assets, political influence, and a posh identity endorsed by Indian business tycoons and Bollywood celebrities. This book examines this globalized religious community in Mumbai, India’s business and entertainment capital, where ISKCON draws Indians from diverse backgrounds to adopt a socially conservative Krishna bhakti identity amidst a neoliberal megacity and the city’s famed cosmopolitanism. Examining the full-circle globalization of a religious movement, this study considers how religious revivalism shifts people’s relationships to religion, family, culture, and nation through constructing new forms of community. Through ISKCON, devotees partake in a form of Hindu belonging that foregrounds discourses of choice, belief, and rationality over family and inherited traditions, embodying a Hindu traditionalism that is profoundly modern. This study also provides a vivid example of how transnational organizations shape local religion. As ISKCON fashions devout religious identities amidst urban spaces, such as college campuses, corporate wellness retreats, and Bollywood celebrity events, it promotes a religious Hindu modernity that reflects elite urban Indian aspirations and aesthetics.
Introduction: The Novelty of Traditionalism
Authors: Robison Claire C
Published: March 2024

The study of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has historically centered on its early North American communities. However, the most sustained growth of this transnational religious community over the past few decades has been in India. This book offers an account of one vibrant ISKCON community in the megacity of Mumbai, at the Radha Gopinath temple in Chowpatty. The introduction situates ISKCON’s formation in urban India in relation to Hindu transnational networks, religious globalization, and the city of Mumbai itself. This lays the groundwork for analyzing ISKCON as a form of Hindu religious modernity. Devotees draw on discourses of revivalism to promote a model for revising religion that shifts their relationships to families, inherited religious traditions, and their own local cultures. Building on Thomas Tweed’s theory of religion, this focus on revision emphasizes devotees’ experiences of crossing into new identities and fashioning novel forms of community and home within the city.
Global and Local Networks in a Neighborhood Temple
Authors: Robison Claire C
Published: March 2024

This chapter introduces the ISKCON community centered at the South Bombay neighborhood of Girgaon Chowpatty, where the study’s primary ethnographic research was conducted. It lays out the history and formation of the Chowpatty community, its authority structure centering on the American-born Radhanath Swami, and the urban context of the temple. This chapter also analyzes the ways Chowpatty’s Indian devotees have localized ISKCON’s transnational systems through the development of their Counselling System, a structure for community organization and devotee care. The transnational history of their religious organization and its contemporary global networks distinguish Mumbai’s devotees from their Indian neighbors. However, they also exemplify trends in urban Hindu communities toward a disinvestment in traditional kinship networks and realignment along transregional networks and interurban migration patterns, which signal broad changes in the production and reception of religious knowledge in urban India.
Bhakti and Its Boundaries
Authors: Robison Claire C
Published: March 2024

This chapter analyzes how ISKCON membership in urban India relates to political orientations and ideas about the Indian nation. It identifies a pan-Indic Vaiṣṇava bhakti imaginary in community pilgrimages, public festivals, and dramatic performances, which maps a devotional religious heritage onto the modern nation. Centering on Krishna worship, this national imaginary also depicts who is performatively excluded, highlighting apprehension toward non-Vaisnava Hindu traditions, historic Muslim figures, and Western modernity. ISKCON festivals and plays engage with contemporary political events and call for greater religiosity in the Indian government and public life. These depictions, and correlated processes of mapping and boundary making, render ISKCON’s bhakti imaginary implicitly political, in conversation with contemporary discussions about Hindu identity in the Indian nation-state, and yet political activity is suspect for those who see their goals in society as purely devotional. This analysis situates ISKCON’s religious messages in relation to a broader context of desires among India’s devout Hindu middle classes to inscribe the nation in a dharmic idiom.
Gut permeability, circulating bacterial fragments and measures of congestion in peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Li Chuanlei , Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Fung Winston Wing-Shing , Lai Ka-Bik , Poon Peter Yam-Kau , Luk Cathy Choi-Wan , Chow Kai-Ming , Szeto Cheuk-Chun
Published: March 2024

Background

Limited data exist on the association between gut permeability, circulating bacterial fragment and volume overload in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. We measured circulating bacterial fragments, N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), calprotectin and zonulin levels, and evaluate their association with the clinical outcomes in PD patients.

Methods

This was a single-center prospective study on 108 consecutive incident PD patients. Plasma endotoxin and bacterial DNA, and serum NT-proBNP, calprotectin and zonulin levels were measured. Primary outcomes were technique and patient survival, secondary outcomes were hospitalization data.

Results

There was no significant correlation between plasma endotoxin and bacterial DNA, and serum NT-proBNP, calprotectin and zonulin levels. The Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA)-2β index, which represents insulin resistance, positively correlated with plasma bacterial DNA (r = 0.421, P < .001) and calprotectin levels (r = 0.362, P = .003), while serum NT-proBNP level correlated with the severity of volume overload and residual renal function. Serum NT-proBNP level was associated with technique survival even after adjusting for confounding factors [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.030, 95% confidence interval 1.009–1.051]. NT-proBNP level was also associated with patient survival by univariate analysis, but the association became insignificant after adjusting for confounding factors (aHR 1.010, P = .073). Similarly, NT-proBNP correlated with the number of hospitalizations and duration of hospitalization by univariate analysis, but the association became insignificant after adjusting for confounding factors.

Conclusion

There was no correlation between markers of gut permeability, circulating bacterial fragments and measures of congestion in PD patients. Bacterial fragments levels and gut permeability are both associated with insulin resistance. Serum NT-proBNP level is associated with the severity of volume overload and technique survival. Further studies are required to delineate the mechanism of high circulating bacterial fragment levels in PD patients.
Early COVID-19 School Policies’ Impact on Families and Youth Engagement in Virtual Learning and Telemental Health
Authors: Domlyn Ariel M , Collier Tristan , Chehoski Brooke E , Haines Christopher , Patterson Brittany , Stevens Robert , Niles Madison L , Weist Mark D
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic quickly and significantly impacted students, schools, and communities. As part of a larger multisite study, the present investigation aimed to understand the effect of the pandemic-related switch to virtual schooling and virtual mental health services on youth. Specifically, this study aimed to explore the impacts of the pandemic on school administrators and staff, students, and families invested in supporting youth mental health. Focus groups were held in two disparate communities within the United States. Participants were members of two school mental health coalitions acting as key informants and included mental health program directors, school clinicians, parents of students, and community leaders. Data were analyzed using iterative rapid qualitative analysis. Salient themes include the role of family characteristics, communication, and infrastructure on use of virtual learning and virtual mental health services. Study findings indicate that fostering trust and increasing communication between school districts and families may ameliorate challenging policy transitions in future crises.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy and its use in non-achalasia disorders
Authors: Rengarajan Arvind , Aadam A Aziz
Published: March 2024

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) and its utilization in non-achalasia disorders of the esophagus. POEM, a relatively novel endoscopic technique, involves submucosal tunneling to access esophageal muscle layers, enabling selective myotomy and mitigating the consequences of motor disorders of the esophagus. POEM is an effective treatment modality for diffuse esophageal spasm providing resolution of chest pain and dysphagia in a majority of patients who have refractory symptoms despite medical therapy. The results of POEM are more equivocal compared to esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO). POEM in EGJOO has been shown to have a 93% clinical success rate in 6 months. POEM appears to be more effective in motor disorders that affect the lower esophageal sphincter, such as EGJOO and opioid-induced esophageal dysfunction. While the current data for POEM in other entities such as DES and HE are positive, more supportive data are required to make POEM a consistent recommendation for patients.
Effects of Multicomponent Home-Based Intervention on Muscle Composition, Fitness, and Bone Density After Hip Fracture
Authors: Ryan Alice S , Beamer Brock A , Gruber-Baldini Ann L , Craik Rebecca L , Golden Justine , Guralnik Jack , Hochberg Marc C , Mangione Kathleen K , Orwig Denise , Rathbun Alan M , Magaziner Jay
Published: March 2024

Background

Mechanistic factors on the pathway to improving independent ambulatory ability among hip fracture patients by a multicomponent home-based physical therapy intervention that emphasized aerobic, strength, balance, and functional training are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of 2 different home-based physical therapy programs on muscle area and attenuation (reflects muscle density) of the lower extremities, bone mineral density (BMD), and aerobic capacity.

Methods

Randomized controlled trial of home-based 16 weeks of strength, endurance, balance, and function exercises (PUSH, n = 19) compared to seated active range-of-motion exercises and transcutaneous electrical neurostimulation (PULSE, n = 18) in community-dwelling adults >60 years of age within 26 weeks of hip fracture.

Results

In PUSH and PULSE groups combined, the fractured leg had lower muscle area and muscle attenuation and higher subcutaneous fat than the nonfractured leg (p < .001) at baseline. At 16 weeks, mean muscle area of the fractured leg was higher in the PUSH than PULSE group (p = .04). Changes in muscle area were not significantly different when compared to the comparative PULSE group. There was a clinically relevant difference in change in femoral neck BMD between groups (p = .05) that showed an increase after PULSE and decrease after PUSH. There were generally no between-group differences in mean VO2peak tests at 16-week follow-up, except the PUSH group reached a higher max incline (p = .04).

Conclusions

The treatment effects of a multicomponent home-based physical therapy intervention on muscle composition, BMD, and aerobic capacity were not significantly different than an active control intervention in older adults recovering from hip fracture.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01783704