bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Axion production in the η → ππa decay within SU(3) chiral perturbation theory
Authors: Wang Jin-Bao , Guo Zhi-Hui , Lu Zhun , Zhou Hai-Qing
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We study the axion and axion-like particle production from the η → ππa decay within the SU(3) chiral perturbation theory up to the one-loop level. The conventional SU(3) chiral low energy constants are found to be able to reabsorb all the divergences from the chiral loops in the η → ππa decay amplitude, and hence render the amplitude independent of the renormalization scale. The unitarized η → ππa decay amplitudes are constructed to take into account the ππ final-state interactions and also properly reproduce the perturbative results from the chiral perturbation theory. Detailed analyses between the perturbative amplitudes and the unitarized ones are given in the phenomenological discussions. By taking the values of the chiral low energy constants in literature, we predict the Dalitz distributions, the spectra of the ππ and aπ systems, and also the branching ratios of the η → ππa process by varying ma from 0 to mη − 2mπ.
Migration patterns, habitat use and genetic origins of sea trout (Salmo trutta) in Norfolk chalk streams: implications for management of a mixed stock fishery
Authors: Piper Adam T. , Rosewarne Paula J. , Bekkevold Dorte , Grey Jonathan , Nye Abbie , Wright Rosalind M.
Published: November 2024

Sea trout, the anadromous ecotype of the species Salmo trutta, are subject to multiple threats, including exploitation and aquaculture impacts in the marine environment, habitat fragmentation and pollution in freshwaters, loss of genetic resilience due to interbreeding with hatchery strains and environmental change. Small streams contribute relatively little biomass to European sea trout stocks but are thought to be important in maintaining genetic diversity and therefore wider population resilience. The current study combined data from acoustic telemetry, stable isotopes, genetics and scalimetry to assess the current status of sea trout in the rivers Stiffkey and Glaven, two locally important chalkstreams in East Anglia, UK, to provide an evidence base for future management. The incidence of anadromy was low, and most sea trout were near migrants, residing in the lower reaches of rivers and close to the tidal outfalls. A small number migrated to the North Sea where they were vulnerable to exploitation in the coastal fishery, which comprises a mixed stock. Straying between the two rivers was recorded among 10% of sea trout, leading to apparent high gene flow. Nonetheless, genetic data also demonstrated structuring of River Glaven trout into two distinct groups. Quantification of patterns of freshwater and estuarine habitat use, and of passage at cross-channel obstructions, was used to identify where remedial measures such as habitat restoration would be most effectively targeted. Findings are discussed in the context of local supplementary stocking and the potential impact of the nearshore fishery on limited and vulnerable small stream anadromous trout populations.
Refixierung von osteochondralen Flake-Frakturen nach Patellaluxation – die Parachute-Technik
Authors: Vieider Romed P. , Siebenlist Sebastian , Fritsch Lorenz , Ellafi Ahmed , Ehmann Yannick , Mehl Julian
Published: November 2024

Operationsziel

Patellaluxationen sind eine häufige Entität in der orthopädischen Praxis und gehen in bis zu 58 % der Fälle mit osteochondralen Frakturen der retropatellaren Knorpeloberfläche, sog. Flake-Frakturen, einher. Die Parachute-Technik stellt eine einfache und kosteneffektive chirurgische Option dar, die im Rahmen der operativen Versorgung dieser Verletzung darauf abzielt, die osteochondrale Integration wiederherzustellen und den nativen Knorpel zu erhalten.

Indikationen

Flake-Fraktur der Patella mit osteochondralen Fragmenten.

Kontraindikationen

Patellafraktur.

Operationstechnik

Durch den Einsatz von transpatellaren, resorbierbaren Nahtmaterialien wird eine stabile osteochondrale Schnittstelle erreicht, ohne das Fragment selbst zu durchdringen.

Weiterbehandlung

Die postoperative Behandlung beinhaltet eine teilweise Belastung mit maximal 20 kg für 6 Wochen in vollständiger Kniestreckung. Zusätzlich ist der Bewegungsumfang der Kniebeugung auf 30° begrenzt und wird alle 2 Wochen um 30° erhöht.

Ergebnisse

Zur Beurteilung der kurz- bis mittelfristigen klinischen Ergebnisse wurden alle Patienten mit akuter Patellaluxation eingeschlossen, die zwischen 01/2012 und 11/2022 mittels Parachute-Technik versorgt wurden. Die klinischen Ergebnisse wurden mit der visuellen Analogskala (VAS), der Tegner-Aktivitätsskala (TAS), dem Kujala-Score, dem Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) und dem International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) erhoben. Von insgesamt 20 Patienten konnten 19 (10 männlich, 11 rechtsseitig, 95 % Follow-up-Rate) für die Nachuntersuchung erreicht werden. Der durchschnittliche Follow-up-Zeitraum betrug 62,5 ± 20,5 Monate. Die klinischen Outcome-Scores resultierten in folgenden Ergebnissen: VAS 0,5 ± 1,6; TAS 5,8 ± 2,2; Kujala 89,4 ± 12,5; KOOS 87,8 ± 14,1 und IKDC 86,7 ± 14,3. Insgesamt gaben 18 Patienten (90,0 %) an, dass sie den Eingriff erneut durchführen lassen würden. Zum Zeitpunkt der Nachuntersuchung waren 19 Patienten (95,0 %) mit dem Operationsergebnis zufrieden. Ein Patient (männlich, 23 Jahre alt) benötigte eine Revision. Keiner der eingeschlossenen Patienten hatte eine erneute Patellaluxation. Zusammenfassend lässt sich schließen, dass die Parachute-Technik bei akuter Patellaluxation eine sehr gute klinische Funktion im kurz- bis mittelfristigen Follow-up aufweist.
El Zorro: early Jurassic intrusion-related gold (IRG) mineralization in the oldest, western-most segment of the Andean Cordillera of Northern Chile
Authors: Fritis Eduardo , Oliver Nicholas H. S. , Rowe Michael C. , Rowland Julie V. , Reeves Zeffron C. , Huang Huiqing
Published: November 2024

The El Zorro gold district is the most recent gold discovery in the Coastal Cordillera of northern Chile. Ternera is the largest deposit in the district with total resources currently estimated at 1.282 Moz. New geology, geochemistry and geochronology data indicate that hydrothermal mineralization is mostly hosted within felsic to intermediate, ilmenite-bearing calc-alkaline dikes and stocks of the Upper Triassic to Lower Jurassic Relincho Pluton, and some of the adjacent Devonian to Carboniferous metasediments of the Chañaral Epimetamorphic Complex. Sheeted veins, veinlets, and fault zones with quartz, low amounts of pyrite, pyrrhotite and arsenopyrite, and local calcite are surrounded by narrow haloes of albite-biotite-quartz ± sulfides-K-feldspar-sericite-chlorite. Gold (mostly in the veins) is associated with elevated W-Bi and also As-Te-Sn, and not with iron enrichment or base metals, even though this system is proximal (~ 20 km) to IOCG and IOA deposits of the Coastal Cordillera. The main phase of gold mineralization occurred soon after emplacement of tonalitic dikes and granodiorite from the Relincho and Cuevitas plutons (U–Pb zircon between ~ 205 and 190 Ma), about 80 m.y. later than the development of orogenic fabrics. An absolute upper age limit is provided by compositionally distinct ore-cutting mafic dikes dated at 175–170 Ma (U–Pb apatite). The deposit falls into the intrusion-related gold category, as indicated by the cutting of earlier orogenic fabrics, the metal and alteration associations, and the spatial and temporal connection to reduced ilmenite-series intrusions, which are also very similar geochemically to the ‘type-locality’ IRG intrusions of the Tintina Belt in Yukon/Alaska. The El Zorro gold district represents the oldest and geologically western-most mineralizing event in the Central Andes of northern Chile, consistent with its time–space placement within the tectonic framework of easterly-younging mineralization and igneous activity in the Chilean Cordillera.
Access to psychological therapies amongst patients with a mental health diagnosis in primary care: a data linkage study
Authors: Catalao Raquel , Broadbent Matthew , Ashworth Mark , Das-Munshi Jayati , L. Hatch Stephani , Hotopf Matthew , Dorrington Sarah
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Significant numbers of people in England have fallen into a gap between primary care psychological therapies and specialist mental health services. We aim to examine pathways to care by looking at demographic variation in detection and referral to primary and secondary psychological services in south London.

Methods

Longitudinal descriptive study using a record linkage between a primary care database (Lambeth DataNet) and a secondary care mental health database (CRIS). We extracted data on mental health diagnosis, prescriptions and episodes of care in mental health services for all patients of working age registered from 1 January 2008 to 1 March 2018 (pre-covid era).

Results

Of those with a mental disorder detected in primary care (n = 110,419; 26.8%); 33.7% (n = 37,253) received no treatment; 21.3% (n = 23,548) exclusively accessed psychological treatment within NHS Talking Therapies and 7.6% accessed secondary care psychological therapies. People from minoritised groups were more likely to be prescribed psychotropic medication as the only treatment offered compared to the White British group. Men, Black African and Asian groups were less likely to access NHS Talking Therapies. People with a personality disorder diagnosis had the highest prevalence and number of NHS Talking Therapies treatment episodes (48.0%, n = 960), a similar percentage (44.1%, n = 881) received secondary care psychology treatment.

Conclusion

Our study highlights marked inequalities in access to psychological therapies for men and people from some minoritised ethnic groups across primary and secondary care and how individuals with personality disorders are offered multiple short-term courses in NHS Talking Therapies even where this is not recommended treatment.
Topology optimization of link mechanisms for comprehensive synthesis of component arrangement and structure using micropolar elasticity model
Authors: Sayo Yurika , Yamada Takayuki
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a method for topology optimization of link mechanisms with multiple outputs, using a multi-material micropolar elasticity model. This approach allows for comprehensive optimization of both the arrangement and structure of the link mechanism components. By utilizing a continuum model that incorporates micropolar elasticity, we can specify bending stiffness independently from tensile stiffness, resulting in deformation characteristics that approximate a link mechanism. The optimization problem of designing link mechanisms for multiple outputs is reformulated as a boundary value problem within this model framework. The design goal is to synthesize a link mechanism that not only follows a desired path but also possesses the required degrees of freedom. To achieve this, the objective function is defined by the displacement error under external force and the strain energy in the links. The multi-material micropolar elasticity model is then optimized through a gradient-based optimization method, focusing on this objective function. The effectiveness and applicability of our methodology are demonstrated through several numerical case studies.
Linear Programming with Unitary-Equivariant Constraints
Authors: Grinko Dmitry , Ozols Maris
Published: November 2024

Unitary equivariance is a natural symmetry that occurs in many contexts in physics and mathematics. Optimization problems with such symmetry can often be formulated as semidefinite programs for a $$d^{p+q}$$

d

p
+
q

-dimensional matrix variable that commutes with $$U^{\otimes p} \otimes {\bar{U}}^{\otimes q}$$

U

⊗
p

⊗

U

¯

⊗
q

, for all $$U \in \textrm{U}(d)$$

U
∈
U
(
d
)

. Solving such problems naively can be prohibitively expensive even if $$p+q$$

p
+
q

is small but the local dimension d is large. We show that, under additional symmetry assumptions, this problem reduces to a linear program that can be solved in time that does not scale in d, and we provide a general framework to execute this reduction under different types of symmetries. The key ingredient of our method is a compact parametrization of the solution space by linear combinations of walled Brauer algebra diagrams. This parametrization requires the idempotents of a Gelfand–Tsetlin basis, which we obtain by adapting a general method inspired by the Okounkov–Vershik approach. To illustrate potential applications of our framework, we use several examples from quantum information: deciding the principal eigenvalue of a quantum state, quantum majority vote, asymmetric cloning and transformation of a black-box unitary. We also outline a possible route for extending our method to general unitary-equivariant semidefinite programs.
Mapping and Analyzing Ecosystem Services Hotspots and Coldspots for Sustainable Spatial Planning in the Greater Asmara Area, Eritrea
Authors: Adem Esmail Blal , Cortinovis Chiara , Geneletti Davide , Inostroza Luis , Peters Riccardo , Romelli Claudia , Schulze Isabel , Tecle-Misghina Belula , Teklemariam Medhane , Wang Jingxia , Albert Christian
Published: November 2024

Rapid urbanization in African metropolises like the Greater Asmara Area, Eritrea, poses numerous environmental challenges, including soil sealing, loss of vegetation cover, threats to protected natural areas, and climate change, among others. Mapping and assessing ecosystem services, particularly analyzing their spatial and temporal distribution is crucial for sustainable spatial planning. This study aims at mapping and analyzing ecosystem services hotspots and coldspots dynamics in the Greater Asmara Area to identify recent trends and opportunities for enhancing ecosystem services supply. Utilizing remote sensing images, we produced land cover maps for 2009 and 2020 and mapped six ecosystem services through a lookup table approach. The study includes provisioning, regulating and maintenance, and cultural ecosystem services. We analyzed their spatio-temporal variations, identifying ecosystem services hotspots and coldspots and their changes over time. Results show that overall ecosystem services potential in the Greater Asmara Area remains low but stable, with some improvements. By 2020, areas with no ecosystem services potential decreased in southern regions like Gala Nefhi and Berik, and new hotspots and coldspots emerged in central Gala Nefhi. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and key challenges of the ecosystem services hotspots and coldspots approach for sustainable spatial planning in rapidly urbanizing African metropolitan regions. Despite limitations, the study offers valuable insights into ecosystem services potentials, and related hotspots and coldspots dynamics, raising awareness and paving the way for further research and application.
Inter-reader agreement of the BI-RADS CEM lexicon
Authors: Zarcaro Calogero , Santonocito Ambra , Zeitouni Layla , Ferrara Francesca , Kapetas Panagiotis , Milos Ruxandra-Iulia , Helbich Thomas H. , Baltzer Pascal A. T. , Clauser Paola
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the inter-reader agreement of the breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) lexicon.

Materials and methods

In this IRB-approved, single-center, retrospective study, three breast radiologists, each with different levels of experience, reviewed 462 lesions in 421 routine clinical CEM according to the fifth edition of the BI-RADS lexicon for mammography and to the first version of the BI-RADS lexicon for CEM. Readers were blinded to patient outcomes and evaluated breast and lesion features on low-energy (LE) images (breast density, type of lesion, associated architectural distortion), lesion features on recombined (RC) images (type of enhancement, characteristic of mass enhancement, non-mass enhancement or enhancing asymmetry), and provided a final BI-RADS assessment. The inter-reader agreement was calculated for each evaluated feature using Fleiss’ kappa coefficient. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated.

Results

The inter-reader agreement was moderate to substantial for breast density (ĸ = 0.569), type of lesion on LE images (ĸ = 0.654), and type of enhancement (ĸ = 0.664). There was a moderate to substantial agreement on CEM mass enhancement descriptors. The agreement was fair to moderate for non-mass enhancement and enhancing asymmetry descriptors. Inter-reader agreement for LE and LE with RC BI-RADS assessment was moderate (ĸ = 0.421) and fair (ĸ = 0.364). Diagnostic performance was good and comparable for all readers.

Conclusion

Inter-reader agreement of the CEM lexicon was moderate to substantial for most features. There was a low agreement for some RC descriptors, such as non-mass enhancement and enhancing asymmetry, and BI-RADS assessment, but this did not impact the diagnostic performance.

Key Points

QuestionData on the reproducibility and inter-reader agreement for the first version of the BI-RADS lexicon dedicated to CEM are missing.

FindingThe inter-reader agreement for the lexicon was overall substantial to moderate, but it was lower for the descriptors for non-mass enhancement and enhancing asymmetry.

Clinical relevanceA common lexicon simplifies communication between specialists in clinical practice. The good inter-reader agreement confirms the effectiveness of the CEM-BIRADS in ensuring consistent communication. Detailed definitions of some descriptors (non-mass, enhancing asymmetry) are needed to ensure higher agreements.
Pattern formation on regular polygons and circles
Authors: Woolley Thomas E.
Published: November 2024

We investigate the formation of Turing patterns on regular polygonal domains, as the number of edges grow, leading to the limiting case of the circle. Using linear and weakly nonlinear analysis, and evidence by simulations, we demonstrate how the domain shape can fundamentally change the expected bifurcation structure. Specifically, on the square domain we are able to derive pitchfork bifurcations for stripe and spot solutions, as well as show that both branches cannot bifurcate to produce stable patterns. This compares with the case of the equilateral triangle domain that causes the Turing bifurcation to be generically transcritical and, in some cases, none of the bifurcating branches are stable. Moreover, we find a monotonically increasing, but nonlinear relationship, between the minimal bifurcation area and the number of edges. Thus, patterns can occur on triangles with much smaller areas than circles. Overall, this work raises questions for researchers who are simulating applications on domains with simple shapes. Specifically, even small changes to domain geometry can have large impacts on the produced patterns; thus, domain perturbations should be considered in any sensitivity analyses.
Dissecting the dynamics of cell death pathways in Hirschsprung’s disease: a comparative analysis of viable and non-viable cells under proinflammatory conditions
Authors: Li Zhongwen , Hagens Johanna , Philippi Clara , Schmidt Hans Christian , Rohwäder Lucie , Schuppert Pauline , Pagerols Raluy Laia , Trochimiuk Magdalena , Reinshagen Konrad , Tomuschat Christian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The present study explores the dynamics of cell death in Hirschsprung’s disease (HSCR) and control (CO) groups under inflammatory stress conditions.

Methods

Using flow cytometry, we analyzed intestinal colonic organoid cultures derived from the ganglionic segment of the HSCR and CO groups. Our analysis focused on the quantification of RIPK1-independent and RIPK1-dependent apoptosis, as well as necroptosis in both viable and non-viable cells under acute and chronic inflammatory stress.

Results

Our findings indicate that HSCR cells are particularly vulnerable to inflammation during acute proinflammatory stress, as evidenced by an increase in dead cells (Zombie +). Under chronic conditions, adaptive changes are observed in both HSCR and CO groups, indicating survival mechanisms. These adaptations are uniquely altered in HSCR, suggesting an impaired response to chronic inflammation. HSCR cells show significantly decreased RIPK1-dependent apoptosis in acute scenarios compared to chronic ones, unlike the CO group, implying varied responses to different inflammatory stresses. In non-viable cells, considerable changes in RIPK1-dependent apoptosis under chronic conditions in HSCR indicate a heightened inflammatory response compared to CO.

Conclusion

This research provides insights into cell death regulation in HSCR under inflammatory stress by using patient-derived organoids, underscoring the complexity of its inflammatory response.
The impact of electronic cigarettes on the outcomes of total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Zaidi Hussain , Stammers John , Hafez Ahmed , Mitchell Philip , Alazzawi Sulaiman , Maris Alexandros , Maslaris Alexander
Published: November 2024

Background

Cigarette smoking is known to result in poorer outcomes for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty. Smoking tobacco cigarettes in the perioperative period is associated with higher analgesia usage, increased mortality, poorer healing, and an increased risk of medical complications. As such, many surgeons advise their patients not to smoke in the perioperative period. Electronic cigarettes are emerging as a popular alternative for usage by patients who would otherwise continue to smoke traditional cigarettes. Importantly, there has been limited investigation into the impact of electronic cigarette usage on the outcomes of total joint arthroplasty. This review investigates the potential detrimental effects caused by the usage of electronic cigarettes on the outcomes of total joint arthroplasty.

Methods

A systematic review was carried out in accordance with the PRISMA Guidelines. We have drawn from studies that investigated the impact of the constituents of E-cigarette vapour on bone health, wound healing, the immune system and the direct impact of electronic cigarette usage on surgical outcomes.

Results

Electronic cigarettes release nicotine in an inconsistent manner, resulting in many negative consequences for bone health. Furthermore, they depress the immune system, impair wound healing and may result in longer hospital stays.

Conclusions

Electronic cigarette usage should be monitored in the perioperative period to reduce the risk of complication. There is a pressing need for more comprehensive research in this area to fully understand the implications of EC usage on the outcomes of total joint arthroplasty.
Impact of IL-8 on survival after TARE in HCC: a comprehensive investigation and external validation from the SORAMIC trial
Authors: Schindler Aaron , Fischer Janett , Beeskow Anne-Bettina , Lincke Thomas , Ebel Sebastian , Seehofer Daniel , Denecke Timm , Veelken Rhea , Sabri Osama , Öcal Osman , Seidensticker Max , Berg Thomas , van Bömmel Florian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with transarterial radioembolization (TARE), identifying reliable biomarkers for predicting survival outcomes remains a critical challenge. We aimed to address this gap by investigating the significance of serum cytokines associated with inflammation as potential biomarkers for the selection of patients for TARE.

Methods

Our retrospective study involved 161 patients diagnosed with HCC who underwent Y90 radioembolization at our medical center between 2010 and 2020. Serum samples from a subset of 78 patients were retrospectively analyzed to determine the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The results from the prospective SORAMIC trial were used for independent validation.

Results

With a median overall survival of 36 weeks (range 4-436), our study showed the strongest correlation between 12-week survival and IL-8 levels before treatment (p < 0.001), while other relevant interleukins, interferon-α2, INF-γ, TNF-α and MCP-1 were not associated with survival. IL-8 levels below the cut-off of 190 pg/mL were significantly associated with increased 12-week and 24-week survival, with hazard ratios of 19.01 (95% CI: 2.29-157.89) and 2.57 (95% CI: 1.05–6.31), respectively (p = 0.006 and p = 0.039, respectively). In the adjusted multivariate analysis, the 190 pg/mL cut-off for IL-8 remained independently associated with 12- (p = 0.011) and 24-week survival (p = 0.039). Similarly, the SORAMIC population showed a strong association between IL-8 levels and 36-week survival (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Our study emphasizes the pivotal role of IL-8 as a valuable parameter, demonstrating its potential for predicting treatment outcomes and assessing liver function in patients with HCC undergoing TARE. The robustness of these findings warrants further validation.
Homozygosity for a hypomorphic mutation in frizzled class receptor 5 causes syndromic ocular coloboma with microcornea in humans
Authors: Cortés-González Vianney , Rodriguez-Morales Miguel , Ataliotis Paris , Mayer Claudine , Plaisancié Julie , Chassaing Nicolas , Lee Hane , Rozet Jean-Michel , Cavodeassi Florencia , Fares Taie Lucas
Published: November 2024

Ocular coloboma (OC) is a congenital disorder caused by the incomplete closure of the embryonic ocular fissure. OC can present as a simple anomaly or, in more complex forms, be associated with additional ocular abnormalities. It can occur in isolation or as part of a broader syndrome, exhibiting considerable genetic heterogeneity. Diagnostic yield for OC remains below 30%, indicating the need for further genetic exploration. Mutations in the Wnt receptor FZD5, which is expressed throughout eye development, have been linked to both isolated and complex forms of coloboma. These mutations often result in a dominant-negative effect, where the mutated FZD5 protein disrupts WNT signaling by sequestering WNT ligands. Here, we describe a case of syndromic bilateral OC with additional features such as microcornea, bone developmental anomalies, and mild intellectual disability. Whole exome sequencing revealed a homozygous rare missense variant in FZD5. Consistent with a loss-of-function effect, overexpressing of fzd5 mRNA harboring the missense variant in zebrafish embryos does not influence embryonic development, whereas overexpression of wild-type fzd5 mRNA results in body axis duplications. However, in vitro TOPFlash assays revealed that the missense variant only caused partial loss-of-function, behaving as a hypomorphic mutation. We further showed that the mutant protein still localized to the cell membrane and maintained proper conformation when modeled in silico, suggesting that the impairment lies in signal transduction. This hypothesis is further supported by the fact that the variant affects a highly conserved amino acid known to be crucial for protein-protein interactions.
Changes to virus taxonomy and the ICTV Statutes ratified by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (2024)
Authors: Simmonds Peter , Adriaenssens Evelien M. , Lefkowitz Elliot J. , Oksanen Hanna M. , Siddell Stuart G. , Zerbini Francisco Murilo , Alfenas-Zerbini Poliane , Aylward Frank O. , Dempsey Donald M. , Dutilh Bas E. , Freitas-Astúa Juliana , García María Laura , Hendrickson R. Curtis , Hughes Holly R. , Junglen Sandra , Krupovic Mart , Kuhn Jens H. , Lambert Amy J. , Łobocka Małgorzata , Mushegian Arcady R. , Penzes Judit , Muñoz Alejandro Reyes , Robertson David L. , Roux Simon , Rubino Luisa , Sabanadzovic Sead , Smith Donald B. , Suzuki Nobuhiro , Turner Dann , Van Doorslaer Koenraad , Vandamme Anne-Mieke , Varsani Arvind
Published: November 2024

This article reports changes to virus taxonomy and taxon nomenclature that were approved and ratified by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) in April 2024. The entire ICTV membership was invited to vote on 203 taxonomic proposals that had been approved by the ICTV Executive Committee (EC) in July 2023 at the 55th EC meeting in Jena, Germany, or in the second EC vote in November 2023. All proposals were ratified by online vote. Taxonomic additions include one new phylum (Ambiviricota), one new class, nine new orders, three new suborders, 51 new families, 18 new subfamilies, 820 new genera, and 3547 new species (excluding taxa that have been abolished). Proposals to complete the process of species name replacement to the binomial (genus + species epithet) format were ratified. Currently, a total of 14,690 virus species have been established.
Comparison and parametric study of characteristics of eleven types of anisotropic woods based on the behaviour of Lamb wave propagation
Authors: Zhang Bo , Othmani Cherif , Takali Farid
Published: November 2024

Knowledge in advance of the nine orthotropic independent elastic constants (C

ij
) of the wood medium is essential for evaluating its mechanical properties. The most prominent technique to retrieve C

ij
is the ultrasonic testing technique. This technique uses guided waves that can propagate through the material under test. Accordingly, it is worth noting that the numerical modelling of the phase and group velocities of guided waves is an unavoidable preliminary step before experimentally producing guided wave modes. Therefore, the main goal of the present work is to numerically calculate the phase velocity, group velocity and the relevant optimal incidence angles of Lamb waves in anisotropic wood that can be used as a numerical parametric study for any future experimental setup. Here, Lamb dispersion curves are calculated for eleven types of woods, where the Legendre polynomial method is employed to solve the wave equations. Moreover, the optimal incidence angle for each Lamb mode is calculated according to the Snell–Descartes law. By calculating out the three parameters of phase velocity, group velocity and optimal incidence angle of Lamb modes in eleven types of anisotropic woods, we hope to fast-track the researchers in considering the present work to facilitate their experimental measurements.
The alien and invasive plant species that may be a future conservation threat to the Lesotho Afro-alpine Drakensberg area
Authors: Mokotjomela Thabiso Michael , Vukeya Loyd Rodney , Mbele Thembelihle Joyce , Matsokane King , Munyai Tenda , Ntloko Bokang Richard , Monyatsi Mohau Peter
Published: November 2024

In this study, we documented and compared similarities of the alien plant species richness between South Africa represented by three provinces: Free State (FS), Eastern Cape (EC), and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), and Lesotho—an important water source area for southern Africa. We tested the prediction that alien plant species in Lesotho are a subset of South Africa’s species partly because of the short geographical distances between the provinces and Lesotho, and environmental similarity. Overall, 7124 records containing 1040 individual alien plant species belonging to 147 families were documented. South Africa had significantly greater alien plant species records than Lesotho. Of 147 plant families, 44 were represented in both countries, and 101 families did not occur in Lesotho. Against the study prediction, the Geraniaceae and Orobanchaceae families occurred in Lesotho but not in three provinces. KwaZulu-Natal had a significantly greater number of species than Lesotho but not the other provinces, and 49% of species in three provinces originated from the Americas (i.e. South and North), Europe, and Asia. A similar pattern was observed in Lesotho. Woody and herbaceous alien plants, habitat transformers, dominated three provinces, while herbaceous species dominated Lesotho. The 62% of 1040 alien species were not listed in the South African national regulations, indicating their negative impacts are also unknown in the study region. Plant nurseries were a dominant species dispersal pathway in South Africa, while home gardens were prominent in Lesotho. We conclude that invasive plant species constitute a future threat to the Lesotho Drakensberg highlands water catchments and recommend prioritising their management and improving cross-border biosecurity between Lesotho and South Africa.
Volume of hepatoid component and intratumor M2 macrophages predict prognosis in patients with hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach
Authors: Taniguchi Yoshiaki , Kiyozawa Daisuke , Kohashi Kenichi , Kawatoko Shinichiro , Yamamoto Takeo , Torisu Takehiro , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Nakamura Masafumi , Kitazono Takanari , Oda Yoshinao
Published: November 2024

Background

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach (HAS), a subtype of gastric cancer (GC), includes multiple tumor components, such as enteroblastic and tubular adenocarcinoma components. However, which component mostly contributes to the aggressive behavior of HAS remains unclear. Moreover, the role of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) has not been explored in HAS. This study evaluated the clinical significance of the proportion of the hepatoid component within the tumor, CD163 + macrophages, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) in HAS.

Methods

In total, 56 cases of primary HAS were analyzed. In each case, hepatoid (HC), enteroblastic (EC), and tubular (TC) components were identified, and the ratio of HC to the entire tumor (hepatoid component ratio, HCR) was assessed to examine the correlation between HCR and clinicopathological features. Immunohistochemical staining for CD163 and CSF-1 was performed, and differences in immunohistochemical results among the three tumor components were analyzed. In each tumor component, the prognostic impact of CD163 and CSF-1 was examined.

Results

A high HCR was associated with worse overall survival (OS). CD163 + TAMs and CSF-1 immunoreactivity score in HC were significantly higher than those in the other components. High infiltration of CD163 + TAMs and a high CSF-1 immunoreactivity score in HC were associated with an aggressive course and worse OS. Multivariate analysis revealed the proportion of HC in HAS as an independent prognostic factor (HR = 3.176, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

The HCR and CD163 + TAMs may be useful prognostic predictors, and TAMs may be novel therapeutic targets of HAS.
Dollarization in Ecuador: 2000–2024
Authors: Connolly Michael B.
Published: November 2024

This paper adopts a Markowitz inspired treatment of uncertainty in inflation and the exchange rate in analyzing the dollarization of Ecuador in 2000. The adoption of the U.S. dollar set a fixed price of foreign (and domestic) currency of one, with zero nominal return and zero variance. Dollarization thus stabilized inflation, guaranteed convertibility in foreign trade and resuscitated the stock exchange in Quito. The dollar served the role of the risk-free asset, save for the risk of U.S. inflation. However, in over 20 years, Ecuador has paid seigniorage to the U.S. Treasury of an accumulated $20 billion in outside money, dollar currency and coin. In 2023, we estimate an operational expense in terms of new seigniorage and the inflationary tax of slightly more than 1% of its GDP. Yet Ecuador has stabilized prices and grown more rapidly, coincidently, by 1.2%.
Three Rival Versions of Markets and the Common Good: Spontaneous, Instituted, and Civil
Authors: Hoipkemier Mark
Published: November 2024

How do markets principally contribute to society, and do they all contribute in the same ways? The logic of common and private goods provides much-needed clarity in grappling with the constitution and contribution of markets. The root challenge of the market is that impersonal private exchange cannot directly promote any common goods, so it appears only capable of promoting the flourishing of society “by accident,” as it were. As responses, the “spontaneous” approach regards both markets and politics as unintended orders of private ends, while a “instituted” model subordinates thin exchange to the thick communal goals of sustaining politics, and the “civil” economy claims that market exchange is itself a form of fraternal solidarity around common goods. All three rival models capture some exchange contexts, but none works for all markets. I advocate a meta stance of “market pluralism,” acknowledging that different markets’ moral architectures could match any of the three models, in line with empirical findings that different industries and market systems vary significantly in their modes of coordination, human relations, and major objectives.
Institutionalizing Sustainability: The Role of Multiple Logics in B Corp Course Integration
Authors: Lähteenkorva Maija
Published: November 2024

Sustainability has gained increased importance in business schools, yet its full institutionalization within the curricula remains challenging. To address this gap, business schools are increasingly collaborating with alternative organizations, such as B Corporations. However, the factors driving the integration of these B Corp courses into the curricula are not well understood. This study employs an institutional logic approach to examine in what way institutional logics coexist and shape the integration of B Corp courses within business school curricula. A qualitative analysis of 31 U.S. business schools revealed how the coexistence and hybridization of industry, social institution, and sustainability logic shape B Corp course framing, implementation, and perception. Industry logic drives career readiness and market alignment, social institution logic emphasizes community engagement and ethical responsibility, and sustainability logic promotes long-term impact and transformative education. This research contributes to the discourse on sustainability in business education by illustrating how multiple institutional logics can coexist constructively, offering a model for enhancing the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives in higher education.
Application of iron oxide and its composites containing carbon nanoparticles to the solution of environmental problems
Authors: Nakashima Satoru
Published: November 2024

The radioactive materials and the secondary waste after a nuclear power plant accident pose a big environmental problem. The nontoxic iron oxide and iron oxyhydroxide, and their composites with carbon materials were applied to solve the problem. Coal oxide produced by modified Brodie method using coal, NaOH, and γ-Fe2O3 were treated by a hydrothermal process. When the diluted dispersion mixture was treated with SrCl2, the composite particles were attracted to a magnet. On the other hand, the composite without SrCl2 was not attracted. This means only the SrCl2-adsorbed composite can be recovered by a magnet. Hematite doped with various amounts of Nb was synthesized. Its catalytic activities for photo-Fenton reaction were investigated for degradation of methylene blue (MB) in the presence of H2O2 under visible light. Nb-doped hematite calcined at 600 ºC produced smaller particles and showed higher catalytic activity than those calcined at 700 ºC. It was shown that the sample with higher Nb doping showed a better catalytic activity, i.e., the sample with 40 atomic percent of Nb calcined at 600 ºC has the highest catalytic activity. The hematite with 7.4 atomic percent of Nb calcined at 600 ºC showed unique characteristics since it has rapid decomposition rate of MB as well as ferrimagnetic-like characteristics, which makes it separable by a magnet. The polymorphism of iron(III) oxyhydroxide was controlled by adding acetic acid, ethylenediamine, and citric acid. The lepidocrocite obtained by adding the additive of citric acid resulted in the presence of citric acid in the particles and revealed a large specific surface area and negative Zeta potential, which showed an extremely high catalytic activity of MB decomposition for photo-Fenton reaction.
From itinerary to map, with “urban villagers” in the Romanian novel. A literary cartography
Authors: Bako Alina
Published: November 2024

The present study has as its starting point a theoretical framework contained in the Neohelicon Journal previous numbers, to which recent studies relating literature and space are added, not from a common, geographical perspective, but demonstrating that the evolution of the novel is observed through the narrative analysis of the itinerary and the map. The case studies are taken from Romanian prose, the common point being the reference to space: Ion Ghica’s, A Journey from Bucharest to Iași before 1848, Duiliu Zamfirescu Love in the Countryside, Nicolae Rădulescu-Niger’s On the Azure Coast. A Winter in Menton in 1914, Camil Petrescu’s The Last Night of Love, the First Night of War and Hortensia Papadat-Bengescu’s The Disheveled Maidens. Our approach observes the interactions between rural and urban areas, their coexistence, and the inevitable presence of the “urban villager” who is connected to the functioning of the entire society, not only Romanian, but especially the “insular” or “peninsular” one, in the terms of Fernando Cabo Aseguinolaza.
Stopping criteria for nonlinear variational problems: iterative approach
Authors: Kamdem Jules Djoko , Sayah Toni
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we present and study a stopping criteria based on a priori error estimate for nonlinear variational problems. We show that for nonlinear variational problems, the a priori error estimate is divided into two sub errors namely: the discretization error and the linearization error. We then used that representation to devise a stopping criteria that help to reduce the computational time. The methodology is applied to three problems and the numerical results demonstrate the superiority of the new approach.
Marcuse, Capitalism, and the One-Dimensional Student
Authors: Oskay Filiz , Ballard W. Walker
Published: November 2024

Drawing on critical theorist Herbert Marcuse’s analysis of modern technological society in his 1964 book, One-Dimensional Man, this article argues that the forces of one-dimensionality that characterize citizens under capitalism have necessarily found their way into schools, leading to what we see as an epidemic of the one-dimensional student. Where other scholars have focused on the impacts of capitalism on schooling and possible structural reform efforts through educational policy, this analysis takes seriously the role of the individual in overcoming an all too easy tendency toward one-dimensional thinking. Applying Marcuse’s fundamental concepts of one-dimensionality, the authors point to the ways in which schools and society actively teach and promote one-dimensionality. Through this application of Marcuse to the field of education, the authors uncover the subtle ways that schools shape the consciousness of students, and in doing so perpetuate one-dimensional society. The article concludes with a number of solutions that reassess educational aims to be more in tune with the sharpening of critical consciousness, or what Marcuse calls negative thinking, for the sake of freedom of self and society.
A putative hemicellulose gene promoter drives high levels of expression in guard cells and stem epidermis of poplar and highlights hormone regulation of cell wall formation
Authors: Wang Dan , Coleman Heather D.
Published: November 2024

Forest trees generate substantial quantities of organic carbon, recognized as a renewable and economically viable resource for applications in bioenergy and industry. This study specifically focuses on xylan, a major hemicellulose component in poplar, and on the role of PtrPARVUS2—a member of the glycosyltransferase 8 family genes involved in xylan biosynthesis. PtrPARVUS2 is hypothesized to exhibit tissue-specific activity, and here we assessed its promoter via bioinformatic analysis, revealing motifs associated with responsiveness to hormones including Gibberellic Acid (GA), Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA), Auxin, and Abscisic Acid (ABA), among others. Treatment with hormones, including ABA, 1-naphthaleneacetic acid, a synthetic auxin, MeJA, and GA, demonstrated a swift inhibition of PtrPARVUS2 transcription. Analysis of expression patterns in wildtype trees indicated heightened expression in vascular tissues, particularly the bark. Transgenic lines expressing Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein and β-glucuronidase under the control of the PtrPARVUS2 promoter confirmed tissue-specific activity, particularly in guard cells, stem epidermis, and developing xylem. These results offer understanding into the potential functions of PtrPARVUS2 in terms of phytohormone response and the formation of guard cell walls. The investigation introduces a valuable promoter for specific biotechnological applications in guard cells and stem epidermal cells. Additional research is required to elucidate the precise regulatory mechanisms of PtrPARVUS2 in the future.
Integrating historical approaches of university ecosystems: reviewing the literature streams and future directions
Authors: Marchant-Pérez Paula , Ferreira João J.
Published: November 2024

It is practically consensual that universities contribute to economic and social growth; therefore, they nowadays need to play a more active role in answering the changing needs of society. In addition, universities hold the potential to promote regional innovation through their influence over the ecosystems they participate in. This article aims to identify, analyse and integrate the historical approaches of university ecosystems and university roles through a systematic literature review. The findings identify four different periods: (i) University-Industry collaboration (until 2000); (ii) changing the university model into a triple-helix model (2001–2010); (iii) from the triple to the quadruple-helix model in the knowledge society (2011–2020); and (iv) ecosystem complexity and the Neo Triple-Helix Model (from 2021). The study contributes to the literature on universities and the ecosystem by providing a unified perspective on the importance of the university’s role in the economic and social growth of the knowledge business and the evolution of the ecosystem. These results provide an overview of the trends in university ecosystems, including an integrative framework, research themes, and research questions able to guide future studies.
Artificial intelligence-based analysis of lower limb muscle mass and fatty degeneration in patients with knee osteoarthritis and its correlation with Knee Society Score
Authors: Kono Kohei , Kinoshita Tomofumi , Soufi Mazen , Otake Yoshito , Masaki Yuto , Uemura Keisuke , Kutsuna Tatsuhiko , Hino Kazunori , Miyamoto Takuma , Tanaka Yasuhito , Sato Yoshinobu , Takao Masaki
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Lower-limb muscle mass reduction and fatty degeneration develop in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and could affect their symptoms, satisfaction, expectation and functional activities. The Knee Society Scoring System (KSS) includes patient reported outcome measures, which is widely used to evaluate the status of knee function of KOA. This study aimed to clarify how muscle mass and fatty degeneration of the lower limb correlate with the KSS in patients with KOA.

Methods

This study included 43 patients with end-stage KOA, including nine males and 34 females. Computed tomography (CT) images of the lower limb obtained for the planning of total knee arthroplasty were utilized. Ten muscle groups were segmented using our artificial-intelligence-based methods. Muscle volume was standardized by dividing by their height squared. The mean CT value for each muscle group was calculated as an index of fatty degeneration. Bivariate analysis between muscle volume or CT values and KSS was performed using Spearman’s rank correlation test. Multiple regression analysis was performed, and statistical significance was set at p  < 0.05.

Results

Bivariate analysis showed that the functional activity score was significantly correlated with the mean CT value of all muscle groups except the adductors and iliopsoas. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the functional activities score was significantly associated with the mean CT values of the gluteus medius and minimus muscles and the anterior and lateral compartments of the lower leg (β = 0.42, p = 0.01; β = 0.33, p = 0.038; and β = 0.37, p = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion

Fatty degeneration, rather than muscle mass, in the lower-limb muscles was significantly associated with functional activities score of the KSS in patients with end-stage KOA. Notably, the gluteus medius and minimus and the anterior and lateral compartments of the lower leg are important muscles associated with functional activities.