bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Front stability of infinitely steep travelling waves in population biology
Authors: Simpson Matthew J , Rahman Nizhum , Tam Alexander K Y
Published: July 2024

Reaction–diffusion models are often used to describe biological invasion, where populations of individuals that undergo random motility and proliferation lead to moving fronts. Many reaction–diffusion models of biological invasion are extensions of the well–known Fisher–Kolmogorov–Petrovskii–Piskunov model that describes the spatiotemporal evolution of a 1D population density,u(x,t), as a result of linear diffusion with fluxJ=−∂u/∂x, and logistic growth source term,S=u(1−u). In 2020 Fadai introduced a new reaction–diffusion model of biological invasion with a nonlinear degenerate diffusive flux,J=−u∂u/∂x, and the model was formulated as a moving boundary problem on0<x<L(t), withu(L(t),t)=0anddL(t)/dt=−κu∂u/∂xatx=L(t)(Fadai and Simpson 2020 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 53 095601). Fadai’s model leads to travelling wave solutions with infinitely steep, well–defined fronts at the moving boundary, and the model has the mathematical advantage of being analytically tractable in certain parameter limits. In this work we consider the stability of the travelling wave solutions presented by Fadai. We provide general insight by first presenting two key extensions of Fadai’s model by considering: (i) generalised nonlinear degenerate diffusion with fluxJ=−um∂u/∂xfor some constantm > 0; and, (ii) solutions describing both biological invasion withdL(t)/dt>0, and biological recession withdL(t)/dt<0. After establishing the existence of travelling wave solutions for these two extensions, our main contribution is to consider stability of the travelling wave solutions by introducing a lateral perturbation of the travelling wavefront. Full 2D time–dependent level–set numerical solutions indicate that invasive travelling waves are stable to small amplitude lateral perturbations, whereas receding travelling waves are unstable. These preliminary numerical observations are corroborated through a linear stability analysis that gives more formal insight into short time growth/decay of wavefront perturbation amplitude. Julia–based software, including level–set algorithms, is available onGithubto replicate all results in this study.
The high energy level effect from different supplements and similar protein source on intake, digestion, weight gain and income over feed cost of Donggala bulls fed Elephant grass
Authors: Sulendre I Wayan , Marsetyo
Published: July 2024

Supplementation is one way to boost the liveweight gain of Donggala bulls during fattening. The current experiment examined the effect of high amount of energy from different supplements and similar protein source on dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter digestibility (DMD), average daily gain (ADG) and income over feed cost (IOFC) of Donggala bulls. Twenty four Donggala bulls were involved, In a completely randomized block design with four dietary treatments and six replications. The experiment lasted 14 weeks, with adaptation and collection periods lasting 2 and 12 weeks, respectively. The dietary treatment include (a) Elephant grass (EG) ad libitum (EG), (b) EG (1% liveweight (W)/day) + Gliricidia (1,25% W/day) and rice bran (1.25% W/day) (EG+GRB) (c) EG (1% W/day + Gliricidia (1.25 W/day) and corn grain (1.25% W/day) (EG+GCG) and (d) EG (1% W/day + Gliricidia (1.25 W/day) and cassava tubers (1.25% W/day) (EG+GCT). Analyses of variance revealed that supplementing Donggala bulls with high energy and protein led to a significant increase (P<0.05) in total DMI, DMD, ADG, and IOFC. Bulls supplemented with Cassava tuber in combination with gliricidia had the highest total DMI, DMD, ADG, and IOFC, whereas unsupplemented bulls had the lowest value for comparable parameters.
The planthopper (hemiptera: delphacidae) attacking the local and hybrid maize varieties in Central Sulawesi-Indonesia: Identification, abundance and preferences
Authors: Saleh S , Anshary A , Yunus M , Syfa N , Lambertus N A
Published: July 2024

The planthopper may treat and reduce the corn productivity if not managed properly. This study aims to discover the planthopper species that attack the corn in Central Sulawesi and their abundance in the local and hybrid corn varieties. Three hybrid varieties (Pertiwi, Pioneer, and Arumba) and one local variety (Lamuru) of corn were used as the treatments. They were set up using a Randomized Block Design in 6 replications. The planthopper population was directly observed weekly both in the vegetative and generative stages and imago were randomly collected for identification at the laboratory. Differences in secondary metabolites of corn particularly total phenolic and silica content were analyzed. The study confirmed that the planthopper attacked corn in our study sites as the white-bellied planthopper Stenocranus pacificus Kirkaldy (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). The presence of the S. pacificus was first recorded 2 weeks after plantation (WAP) only at the Pertiwi variety. The highest population of S.pacificus was detected at 4 and 5 WAP and the most preferable variety was Pertiwi followed by Pioneer, Arumba, and Lamuru indicating that the hybrid variety seemed to be more susceptible to infest by planthopper than the local corn variety. Polyphenol but not silica contents of corn varieties may explain the preferences of planthoppers in attacking the corn
Compressive strength of mortar with addition of sawdust
Authors: Amir F , Maricar S , Mallisa Z , Pravita N D
Published: July 2024

The use of wood as a building material in the construction or other building elements results in the emergence of wood waste that has not been fully utilized, in the form of sawdust. One way to use wood industrial waste is to use it as a building material. In this study, industrial wood waste (sawdust) was used as a partial substitute for sand in building materials in the form of cement mortar. This study aims to determine the effect of adding sawdust of kala-kala wood to cement mortar on its compressive strength. The composition ratio of the mixture between cement and sand used was 1:3, with a water-cement ratio (FAS) of 0.6. The variations of sawdust used in the admixture are 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% of the sand weight. The results showed that the compressive strength of cement mortar with sawdust composition to substitute the sand resulted in decreased trends when the sawdust percentage was increased. However, the use of sawdust as a filling material in cement mortar will greatly affect the decrease of its compressive strength, sawdust still can be used to substitute the sand in mortar mixture with optimum percentages of 2% to 8%.
Characteristics of rain that triggers landslides on the slopes of the Tawaeli-Toboli road
Authors: Martini  , Ramadhani S
Published: July 2024

The Tawaeli Toboli road functions as a link between the city of Palu and the districts in Central Sulawesi in particular and cities on the island of Sulawesi in general. This road has a length of ± 45 km, the topography traversed by this road is mostly mountainous. Now, most of the Tawaeli Toboli roads are wide and smoothly paved. However, the problem is never resolved, namely the problem lies in landslides on the slopes, both the upper slopes and the lower slopes. If the upper slope lands, the road body will be buried, and if the lower slope falls, the road body will also collapse. Landslides often occur, especially during the rainy season. The decrease in slope stability due to rain depends on the intensity and duration. The amount of rain intensity that triggers landslides is influenced by soil mechanical parameters, such as the angle of friction in the soil. The greater the value of the soil friction angle, the higher the intensity of the landslide trigger. So it can be concluded that the intensity of the driving rain can be > 70 mm/hour or < 70 mm/hour depending on the magnitude of the mechanical properties of the soil.
Effects of dietary seaweed and carrageenan waste on performance and carcass quality of broiler
Authors: Sulistiawati D
Published: July 2024

Gracilaria sp. and Eucheuma cottonii are seaweeds that contain vitamins (vitamin A/β-carotene, B1, B2, B6, B12, and vitamin C) and minerals (potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, and iodine). Carrageenan waste still has nutrients that can be used as animal feed. This study investigated the effects of Gracilaria sp., E. cottonii seaweed, and carrageenan waste in diets on broiler chickens’ growth and carcass components. 112 DOC broilers for 6 weeks in experimental cages at the Agribusiness Development Laboratory for Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Tadulako University, in South Sibalaya Village, Tanambulava District, Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi Province. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 7 treatments and 4 replications. They were assigned to the control diet with 2.5% Gracilaria sp., 5% Gracilaria sp., 2.5% E. cottonii, 5% E. cottonii, 2.5% carrageenan waste, and 5% carrageenan waste. Broiler chicken’s parameters were feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and carcass components. Based on the results of this study, the best diet use was found in the use of 2.5% Gracilaria sp., 2.5% carrageenan waste, and 5% E. cottonii.
Thermography applied to buildings as an opportunity to detect thermal bridges. Case study: Ambato, Ecuador
Authors: Pazmiño Lucía , Ordóñez Ranzet , Zambrano Liz
Published: July 2024

This research analyses the existence of thermal bridges in an urban context located at 2700 meters above sea level based on the analysis of thermal images of buildings taken in different ambient temperature conditions. The objective of this research is to expand and update the spectrum of analysis and detection of thermal bridges in an urban context, where environmental conditions change and increasingly reach higher and lower extreme peaks of temperature, which is why it is necessary to establish strategies for mitigation of thermal bridges and stabilization of internal temperatures, the materiality of the building envelope plays a very important role in this study. The methodology applied in this research is of mixed approach, qualitative in relation to the analysis and collection of information with thermal cards and photographs, and quantitative due to the comparison of thermal data obtained from the analysis and energy simulation of the case study. The qualitative results were obtained through the collection of thermographic information, the simulation of the house and focus on the detection of temperature leaks in an urban context of a building built in 2019 with contemporary materials and construction systems, the quantitative results were obtained from the energy simulation, which helped determine the failures in the envelope and thus could improve the energy performance of the building. The study concludes that currently, in spite of knowing the impact generated by climate change, improvements in the configuration of the envelope available in the market are not considered, which generates a negative impact on the perception of thermal comfort inside the building, it is also important to emphasize the importance of energy simulation in construction and design, since this helps to detect problems before building and to be more optimal when remodelling buildings.
Design of a load elevator as a measure to reduce ergonomic risks
Authors: Sarmiento-Ortiz Fabian , Topón-Visarrea Blanca , Iza Christian , Morales Joel , León Vecquer
Published: July 2024

Manual handling of loads in work environments poses significant ergonomic risks, leading to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. To address this, mechanical solutions are essential to optimize processes and ensure employees’ health and well-being. In this study utilized four methodologies: the Ergonomic Checklist, NIOSH Equation, Snook and Cirello Tables, and the INSHT Technical Guide. These tools evaluated the physical load and risks of manual lifting. Concurrently, a load lifter was developed, utilizing a tractor system powered by an electric motor and a chain hoist, all automated by a PLC. The evaluations highlighted the high risks of manual load handling. After implementation it reduced unacceptable risk to acceptable as well as the distance workers needed to manually move loads was reduced from 8 meters to 2 meters with the automatic lift, a 75% decrease and increasing process efficiency. The designed hoist has a 500 kg capacity, streamlining the product reception and storage process. The introduction of the freight elevator, as an ergonomic solution, is pivotal in reducing workplace risks and enhancing safety and efficiency. This research underscores the need to embrace advanced technologies to tackle ergonomic issues in work settings.
Investigation on mechanical properties of aluminum hybrid matrix composites reinforced with fly ash and titanium diboride using stir casting technique
Authors: S Sathish , S Solomon Raj , Nair Anish , S Sundaraselvan
Published: July 2024

Aluminium hybrid matrix composites (AHMCs) is employed in the automotive and aerospace industries because to their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and tribological properties. The objective of this research is to examine the metallurgical, mechanical, and corrosion characteristics of Aluminum hybrid matrix composites (AHMCs) produced by reinforcing LM25 alloy with 5% fly ash and varying percentages (4%, 8%, 12%) of TiB2 using the stir casting technique. The uniform distribution of reinforcing particles was verified by capturing images via SEM and EDAX. Density, Tensile strength, microhardness was conducted for the prepared AHMCs. The outcome reported there was an enhancement by adding reinforcement particles of fly ash and TiB2 comparing to the pure LM25 alloy. This improvement was attributed to the presence of fly ash and TiB2 particles, resulting in a higher dislocation density, with increasing TiB2 content demonstrating improved strength and ductility compared to conventional LM25 alloy.
Revolutionizing waste from household plastics to eco-friendly diesel alternatives through catalytic degradation with biogas utilization
Authors: J Nishanth Jude Roy , P Premkumar , Iqbal Shajahan Mohamed , V Elangkathir
Published: July 2024

The study tackled the pressing environmental issue of managing both biodegradable and non-biodegradable household plastic waste, aiming to convert this waste into valuable hydrocarbons, thus addressing critical concerns over plastic pollution and the quest for renewable energy sources. In the context of escalating environmental degradation and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, the ability to transform various forms of waste into energy presents a significant stride towards ecological and energy sustainability. Utilizing an innovative methodology, the research employed catalytic degradation of mixed plastic waste, leveraging fly ash as a catalyst and biogas produced from a combination of cow dung and kitchen waste as a renewable and sustainable heat source. This process was fine-tuned across several catalyst-to-polymer (cat/pol) ratios, specifically 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20, with detailed documentation of the degradation temperatures and yields of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons for each 1 kg batch of plastic waste. Notably, at a cat/pol ratio of 0.20, a remarkable 100% conversion rate was achieved, highlighting the efficiency of this method. Following this, the resultant oil was segmented based on boiling points for further analysis and evaluation of its utility as a diesel fuel substitute. Significant findings include the highest liquid hydrocarbon yield of 65.1% at 378 °C, achieved with the 0.20 cat/pol ratio. Moreover, fractions boiling above 100 °C were identified to possess superior heating values and cetane numbers compared to conventional diesel, particularly the fraction boiling at 100 °C–150 °C (C2), which demonstrated optimal performance and combustion qualities. This fraction achieved a maximum brake thermal efficiency of 32.92%, exhibited low smoke density and hydrocarbon emissions of 48 HSU and 32ppm, but it also resulted in a significant increase in NOx emission. Among all the fractions, diesel C2 was observed to be the best in terms of performance & combustion and was lower in emission. The conclusions drawn underscore the method’s potential to mitigate plastic pollution and reduce fossil fuel reliance by converting both biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste into useful energy. This study’s novelty lies in its comprehensive approach to waste management and energy recovery, significantly advancing over previous literature by achieving a 100% conversion rate at a specific cat/pol ratio and optimizing the output for use as a diesel alternative. It stands out by producing a fraction with both high efficiency and lower emissions, offering a scalable, sustainable solution to waste management challenges and paving the way for future innovations in sustainable energy production.
A physics based model for negative capacitance TFET considering variation in ferroelectric parameters
Authors: Chaudhary Shalini , Dewan Basudha , Singh Devenderpal , Yadav Menka
Published: July 2024

Here, an explicit analytical model of electrical properties like channel potential, electric field, drain current, and threshold voltage for a negative capacitance DGTFET structure is developed. The model properly calculates the channel potential profile by solving the Poisson equation using the Landau-Khalatnikov (LK) model (for incorporating the NC effect). The electric field expression is developed using a channel potential model. The drain current expression is obtained by mathematically integrating the rate of band-to-band tunneling generation over the channel thickness. The threshold voltage has been derived using a method called maximal trans-conductance. Furthermore, by varying the FE parameters like thickness (t
fe
), coercive field (E
C
), and residual polarization (P
R
), we improve capacitance matching and gate control of the device. All of the model results demonstrated a perfect alignment with those discovered by TCAD simulations. Designing devices and circuits for low-power applications can be more effective from these results.
Simulation-based inference on virtual brain models of disorders
Authors: Hashemi Meysam , Ziaeemehr Abolfazl , Woodman Marmaduke M , Fousek Jan , Petkoski Spase , Jirsa Viktor K
Published: July 2024

Connectome-based models, also known as virtual brain models (VBMs), have been well established in network neuroscience to investigate pathophysiological causes underlying a large range of brain diseases. The integration of an individual’s brain imaging data in VBMs has improved patient-specific predictivity, although Bayesian estimation of spatially distributed parameters remains challenging even with state-of-the-art Monte Carlo sampling. VBMs imply latent nonlinear state space models driven by noise and network input, necessitating advanced probabilistic machine learning techniques for widely applicable Bayesian estimation. Here we present simulation-based inference on VBMs (SBI-VBMs), and demonstrate that training deep neural networks on both spatio-temporal and functional features allows for accurate estimation of generative parameters in brain disorders. The systematic use of brain stimulation provides an effective remedy for the non-identifiability issue in estimating the degradation limited to smaller subset of connections. By prioritizing model structure over data, we show that the hierarchical structure in SBI-VBMs renders the inference more effective, precise and biologically plausible. This approach could broadly advance precision medicine by enabling fast and reliable prediction of patient-specific brain disorders.
Proton dose deposition matrix prediction using multi-source feature driven deep learning approach
Authors: Zhou Peng , Jiao Shengxiu , Zhao Xiaoqian , Yao Shuzhan , Xu Honghao , Chen Chuan
Published: July 2024

Proton dose deposition results are influenced by various factors, such as irradiation angle, beamlet energy and other parameters. The calculation of the proton dose deposition matrix (DDM) can be highly complex but is crucial in intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT). In this work, we present a novel deep learning (DL) approach using multi-source features for proton DDM prediction. The DL5 proton DDM prediction method involves five input features containing beamlet geometry, dosimetry and treatment machine information like patient CT data, beamlet energy, distance from voxel to beamlet axis, distance from voxel to body surface, and pencil beam (PB) dose. The dose calculated by Monte Carlo (MC) method was used as the ground truth dose label. A total of 40 000 features, corresponding to 8000 beamlets, were obtained from head patient datasets and used for the training data. Additionally, seventeen head patients not included in the training process were utilized as testing cases. The DL5 method demonstrates high proton beamlet dose prediction accuracy, with an average determination coefficient R
2 of 0.93 when compared to the MC dose. Accurate beamlet dose estimation can be achieved in as little as 1.5 milliseconds for an individual proton beamlet. For IMPT plan dose comparisons to the dose calculated by the MC method, the DL5 method exhibited gamma pass rates of γ(2 mm, 2%) and γ(3 mm, 3%) ranging from 98.15% to 99.89% and 98.80% to 99.98%, respectively, across all 17 testing cases. On average, the DL5 method increased the gamma pass rates to γ(2 mm, 2%) from 82.97% to 99.23% and to γ(3 mm, 3%) from 85.27% to 99.75% when compared with the PB method. The proposed DL5 model enables rapid and precise dose calculation in IMPT plan, which has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and quality of proton radiation therapy.
Repurposing coal plants into thermal energy storage—a techno-economic assessment in the Indian context
Authors: Patel Serena , Mallapragada Dharik , Ganesan Karthik , Stoner Robert
Published: July 2024

Substantial coal phase out initiatives have been growing as the world mobilizes to meet the Paris climate goals. However, the stranded asset risk associated with this critical transition could fall disproportionately on Asian economies with younger coal fleets, like India. Here, we undertake plant-level techno-economic analysis to explore the value of installing commercially available, molten-salt thermal energy storage (TES) systems for repurposing existing coal power plants in the Indian context. We combine process simulation and an economic optimization model to evaluate design and operations of TES systems for a variety of technology assumptions, coal plant archetypes, and electricity price scenarios. Key drivers of economic viability identified include longer remaining plant lifetime, increasing peak TES temperature, lower TES energy capacity cost, co-production of waste heat for end-uses, and increasing temporal variability of electricity prices. The plant-level analysis was then extended to screen for the potential of TES retrofits within the coal power fleet in Uttar Pradesh, the most populous Indian state with a significant share of India’s coal capacity. Analysis for a single electricity price scenario indicates that over 82% of the coal units in the state can be retrofitted and recover the installed costs of TES retrofits, provided that fixed operating and maintenance costs are excluded. These results reinforce the opportunity for decision-makers to consider TES retrofits of coal plants into cost-effective grid decarbonization strategies.
On exponential groups and Maurer–Cartan spaces
Authors: Berglund Alexander
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this note is to give a concise account of some fundamental properties of the exponential group and the Maurer–Cartan space associated to a complete dg Lie algebra. In particular, we give a direct elementary proof that the Maurer–Cartan space is a delooping of the exponential group. This leads to a short proof that the Maurer–Cartan space functor is homotopy inverse to Quillen’s functor from simply connected pointed spaces to positively graded dg Lie algebras.
A Comparison Theorem for Semi-Abelian Schemes over a Smooth Curve
Authors: Trihan Fabien , Vauclair David
Published: July 2024

We compare flat cohomology to crystalline syntomic complexes with coefficients in two cases: (1)

p
p

-divisible groups over a separated

F

p

\mathbb {F}_p

-scheme with local finite

p
p

-bases, (2) semi-abelian schemes over a separated irreducible smooth curve.
Exponential Decay Estimates and Smoothness of the Moduli Space of Pseudoholomorphic Curves
Authors: Fukaya Kenji , Oh Yong-Geun , Ohta Hiroshi , Ono Kaoru
Published: July 2024

The compacified moduli space of bordered stable maps carries a Kuranishi structure with boundary. Smoothness of Kuranishi structure along the boundary requires smoothness of coordinate changes along the boundary. The proof of smoothness is written by the authors in [AMS/IP Stud. Adv. Math., 46.1, 2009, xii+396 pp.], [AMS/IP Stud. Adv. math., 46.2, 2009, pp. i–xii and 397–805], and [Surv. Differ. Geom., vol. 22, pp. 133–190, 2018] based on some uniform exponential decay estimates of the stable maps with respect to a parameter

T
T

, the length of the gluing cylindrical neck, near the boundary of the moduli space. In this paper we establish this exponential decay estimates in a precise manner by carefully examining the dependence on the parameter

T
T

of the gluing construction in the setting of bordered Riemann surfaces with boundary punctures. We also show that the smoothness of the collar follows from the aforementioned exponential estimates by taking

s
=
1

/

T

s = 1/T

as the radial coordinate of the collar.
Sexual Orientation-Specific Policies Are Associated With Prenatal Care Use in the First Trimester Among Sexual Minority Women: Results From a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Everett Bethany G , Bergman Zoë , Charlton Brittany M , Barcelona Veronica
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous research has shown sexual minority women (SMW) are more likely to report multiple maternal and infant health outcomes compared to heterosexual women and that these outcomes are moderated by the policy environment. Little is known, however, about prenatal care use disparities or the social determinants of prenatal care use for SMW.

Purpose

To examine the relationship between sexual orientation-specific policies that confer legal protections (e.g., hate crime protections, housing discrimination, same-sex marriage) and prenatal care use among women using a prospective, population-based data set.

Methods

Using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and logistic regression, we link measures of state policies to the use of prenatal care in the first trimester among women who had live births. The use of prospective data allows us to adjust for covariates associated with preconception care use prior to pregnancy (n = 586 singleton births to SMW; n = 4,539 singleton births to heterosexual women).

Results

Sexual orientation-specific policies that conferred protections were associated with increased use of prenatal care among pregnancies reported by SMW (OR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.16, 2.96). In fact, in states with zero protections, we found no differences in prenatal care use by sexual minority status; however, in states with two or more protective policies, SMW were more likely to access prenatal care in the first trimester than heterosexual women. There was no relationship between sexual orientation-specific policy environments and prenatal care use among pregnancies reported by heterosexual women.

Conclusions

Recent research has documented that SMW are more likely to have adverse perinatal and obstetrical outcomes than their heterosexual peers. These findings suggest that Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual-specific policy protections may facilitate the use of prenatal care among SMW, a potentially important pathway to improve reproductive health among this population.
Sexual Minority Women Report Higher Weight Stigma Levels Than Heterosexual Women in the National Weight Control Registry
Authors: Panza Emily , Olson KayLoni , Sall Kayla , Norris Alyssa , Lillis Jason , Thomas John Graham , Dunsiger Shira , Fowler Halle , Parent Hannah , Wing Rena R
Published: July 2024

Background

Little is known about weight stigma in sexual minority women, and even less is known about weight stigma in those who have attained substantial weight loss and maintenance.

Purpose

This study examined weight stigma experiences and internalization in sexual minority women from the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) who had lost ≥30 pounds and maintained this weight loss for ≥1 year, and compared weight stigma levels between sexual minority women versus heterosexual women in the NWCR.

Methods

NWCR participants completed an electronic survey. Women who identified as a sexual minority (n = 64; 98% White; MBMI = 29 ± 8; Mage = 47 ± 13) and heterosexual women matched on body mass index (BMI), age, and race (n = 64; 98% White; MBMI = 28 ± 7; Mage = 51 ± 13) were included. Participants completed assessments of experienced and internalized weight stigma.

Results

Generalized linear models showed that a significantly larger proportion of sexual minority women in the NWCR reported experiencing weight stigma in the past year (24.2%) compared with heterosexual women (4.7%; p < .05). Furthermore, sexual minority (vs. heterosexual) women reported significantly higher levels of internalized weight stigma (p < .001), and a greater proportion of sexual minority women (35%) reported clinically significant internalized weight stigma relative to heterosexual women (2%; p < .001).

Conclusions

Sexual minority women are at greater risk for experienced and internalized weight stigma than their heterosexual counterparts among women who have attained significant long-term weight loss. It is critical to expand research on weight stigma in sexual minority women.
Longitudinal changes in sodium concentration and in clinical outcome in mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Gerhalter Teresa , Chen Anna M , Dehkharghani Seena , Peralta Rosemary , Gajdosik Mia , Zarate Alejandro , Bushnik Tamara , Silver Jonathan M , Im Brian S , Wall Stephen P , Madelin Guillaume , Kirov Ivan I
Published: July 2024

Ionic imbalances and sodium channel dysfunction, well-known sequelae of traumatic brain injury (TBI), promote functional impairment in affected subjects. Therefore, non-invasive measurement of sodium concentrations using 23Na MRI has the potential to detect clinically relevant injury and predict persistent symptoms. Recently, we reported diffusely lower apparent total sodium concentrations (aTSC) in mild TBI patients compared to controls, as well as correlations between lower aTSC and worse clinical outcomes. The main goal of this study was to determine whether these aTSC findings, and their changes over time, predict outcomes at 3- and 12-month from injury. Twenty-seven patients previously studied with 23Na MRI and outcome measures at 22 ± 10 days (average ± standard deviation) after injury (visit-1, v1) were contacted at 3- (visit-2, v2) and 12-month after injury (visit-3, v3) to complete the Rivermead post-concussion symptoms questionnaire (RPQ), the extended Glasgow outcome scale (GOSE), and the brief test of adult cognition by telephone (BTACT). Follow-up 1H and 23Na MRI were additionally scheduled at v2. Linear regression was used to calculate aTSC in global grey and white matters. Six hypotheses were tested in relation to the serial changes in outcome measures and in aTSC, and in relation to the cross-sectional and serial relationships between aTSC and outcome. Twenty patients contributed data at v2 and fifteen at v3. Total RPQ and composite BTACT z-scores differed significantly for v2 and v3 in comparison to v1 (each P < 0.01), reflecting longitudinally reduced symptomatology and improved performance on cognitive testing. No associations between aTSC and outcome were observed at v2. Previously lower grey and white matter aTSC normalized at v2 in comparison to controls, in line with a statistically detectable longitudinal increase in grey matter aTSC between v1 and v2 (P = 0.0004). aTSC values at v1 predicted a subset of future BTACT subtest scores, but not future RPQ scores nor GOSE-defined recovery status. Similarly, aTSC rates of change correlated with BTACT rates of change, but not with those of RPQ. Tissue aTSC, previously shown to be diffusely decreased compared to controls at v1, was no longer reduced by v2, suggesting normalization of the sodium ionic equilibrium. These changes were accompanied by marked improvement in outcome. The results support the notion that early aTSC from 23Na MRI predicts future BTACT, but not RPQ scores, nor future GOSE status.
A rare case report of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia with an uncommon CALM2 mutation
Authors: Ding Kimberly R , de la Rosa Angelo L , Do Duc , Shah Sonia
Published: July 2024

Background

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a primary arrhythmia disorder characterized by syncope or sudden cardiac death and typically caused by a gain-of-function of the Ryanodine Receptor Type 2 (RyR2) mutation. Calmodulin is a calcium-binding protein responsible for many intracellular signalling pathways and disruptions in function or regulation may lead to potentially fatal arrhythmias. We present a case of a young patient with CPVT found to have an unusual, potentially causative, Calmodulin 2—a protein coding gene (CALM2) mutation.

Case summary

A 21-year-old female with autism was brought to the ED following cardiac arrest. Bidirectional ventricular tachycardia was captured on electrocardiogram. Propranolol was initiated, and patient had no further episodes of ventricular arrhythmia. A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was implanted, and further genetics testing was done. Rapid Whole Genome Sequencing (PGnome®—RAPID) resulted heterozygous variant of uncertain significance in CALM2 gene NM_001743.5 for variant c.136G>A.

Discussion

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the third known record of such mutation in accordance with the International Calmodulin Registry (n = 74). Identification of CALM mutations can help advance the understanding of genetic underpinnings of arrhythmias and underscore necessity of genetic screening and personalized treatment strategies. Subcutaneous ICDs offer a promising therapeutic option while minimizing risks associated with traditional transvenous ICDs.
Comparison between remotely supported nurse-led electro-anatomic mapping and standard onsite engineer support for electrophysiological procedures
Authors: Müssigbrodt Andreas , Vergier Romain , Banydeen Rishika , Finoly Steeve , Mommarche Max , Bethencourt Maria Herrera , Monfort Astrid , Inamo Jocelyn
Published: July 2024

Aims

Catheter ablations of complex cardiac arrhythmias are currently guided by electro-anatomic mapping (EAM) systems. The aim of this study was to compare two different approaches: remotely supported nurse-led EAM with standard onsite engineer support.

Methods and results

In this retrospective observational study, 166 patients with complex and non-complex procedures were included. A total of 82 patients benefited from EAM with remotely supported nurse-led mapping (mean age: 62 ± 16 years), while the approach for 84 patients was with standard onsite engineer support (mean age: 56 ± 19 years). Procedural characteristics, acute results, and complication rates were compared between both groups and showed similar results. Complex and non-complex procedures were conducted in both groups, including left atrial and ventricular procedures. As ventricular tachycardia and accessory pathway ablations were more frequently conducted with standard onsite engineer support, we separately analysed the largest subgroup, 105 patients with atrial fibrillation, left atrial flutter, and left atrial tachycardia. Patients in this subgroup had comparable baseline characteristics, procedure times, and procedural success. Nevertheless, there were longer ablation times and more utilization of fluoroscopy in the onsite group, most likely due to more complex procedures.

Conclusion

Our results underline the practicality of remotely supported nurse-led EAM. The latter approach proved to be a safe alternative to onsite engineer support. Due to its advantages, particularly for insular settings, it will likely play a greater role in the future.
Evaluation of tricuspid valve regurgitation following transvenous rotational mechanical lead extraction
Authors: Migliore Federico , Pittorru Raimondo , De Lazzari Manuel , Dall’Aglio Pietro Bernardo , Cecchetto Antonella , Previtero Marco , Pergola Valeria , Thiene Gaetano , Masiero Giulia , Tarantini Giuseppe , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gerosa Gino
Published: July 2024

Aims

Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is potentially complicated by significant tricuspid valve regurgitation increase (TRI). However, there are limited data on the effect of the bidirectional rotational mechanical sheaths on significant TRI. The aim of the present study was to investigate the rate of significant changes in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity following mechanical rotational TLE and their outcomes.

Methods and results

In 158 patients (mean age 66 ± 16.9 years) undergoing mechanical rotational TLE, acute changes in TR severity were assessed by echocardiography evaluation. A significant acute TRI was defined as an increase of at least one grade with a post-extraction severity at least moderate. A total of 290 leads were extracted (mean implant duration, 93 ± 65 months). Significant TRI was noted in 5.7% of patients, and it was linked to tricuspid valve damage, TLE infection indication, and longer lead implant duration. Univariate predictors of significant TRI included implant duration of all leads [odds ratio (OR) 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.003–1.018; P = 0.001] and right ventricular leads (OR 1.01; 95% CI 1.004–1.017; P = 0.002). Severe increase of TR following TLE was an independent predictor of mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 5.20; 95% CI 1.44–18.73; P = 0.012 ] along with severe systolic dysfunction (HR 2.37; 95% CI 1.01–5.20; P = 0.032), and systemic infection (HR 2.28; 95% CI 1.06–4.89; P = 0.035).

Conclusion

Significant TRI was detected in 5.7% of patients following transvenous rotational mechanical lead extraction. The duration of lead implantation emerged as the sole predictor of significant TRI. Physicians engaged in TLE should exercise greater vigilance for this potential complication.
Omada: robust clustering of transcriptomes through multiple testing
Authors: Kariotis Sokratis , Tan Pei Fang , Lu Haiping , Rhodes Christopher J , Wilkins Martin R , Lawrie Allan , Wang Dennis
Published: July 2024

Background

Cohort studies increasingly collect biosamples for molecular profiling and are observing molecular heterogeneity. High-throughput RNA sequencing is providing large datasets capable of reflecting disease mechanisms. Clustering approaches have produced a number of tools to help dissect complex heterogeneous datasets, but selecting the appropriate method and parameters to perform exploratory clustering analysis of transcriptomic data requires deep understanding of machine learning and extensive computational experimentation. Tools that assist with such decisions without prior field knowledge are nonexistent. To address this, we have developed Omada, a suite of tools aiming to automate these processes and make robust unsupervised clustering of transcriptomic data more accessible through automated machine learning–based functions.

Findings

The efficiency of each tool was tested with 7 datasets characterized by different expression signal strengths to capture a wide spectrum of RNA expression datasets. Our toolkit’s decisions reflected the real number of stable partitions in datasets where the subgroups are discernible. Within datasets with less clear biological distinctions, our tools either formed stable subgroups with different expression profiles and robust clinical associations or revealed signs of problematic data such as biased measurements.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Omada successfully automates the robust unsupervised clustering of transcriptomic data, making advanced analysis accessible and reliable even for those without extensive machine learning expertise. Implementation of Omada is available at http://bioconductor.org/packages/omada/.
Tensions in Finland’s ex ante constitutional review: The interplay of politics, law, and media
Authors: Dahlberg Maija , Kantola Anu
Published: July 2024

Constitutional review has become increasingly subject to heated political debates and struggles. While the constitutionality of laws is often reviewed after the laws have entered into force (ex post), this article examines an ex ante constitutional review assessing the political tensions and struggles typical of it. We examine the Finnish experience, drawing on forty-nine semi-structured interviews among key actors involved in the work of the Constitutional Law Committee (CLC) of the Finnish Parliament, which controls the constitutionality of laws before they enter into force. We find that tensions between law and politics are an important element of the ex ante constitutional review and show how they emerge in the work of the CLC and how the key actors involved in the review seek to control and manage them. We also suggest that the political tensions surrounding the ex ante review have intensified in recent decades and find three main reasons for this development. First, as constitutional and human rights have found their way into an increasingly wide range of political matters, political tensions in constitutional assessment have been aggravated. Second, external legal experts have begun to play a more prominent and public role in the review process, adding to the public tensions relating to constitutional interpretation. Third, the media and journalists have become increasingly interested in constitutional questions, which further inflames tensions. As a result, we suggest that scholars should increasingly explore and make transparent these de facto practices in constitutional review.
Technological innovation structure and driving factors of China’s photovoltaic industry: based on patent innovation network
Authors: Guo Qing , Li Junyi
Published: July 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) industry is a strategic emerging industry in China, which provides risk resistance and autonomy for energy security by its technology innovation structure. The article conducts a comparative study on the technological innovation of PV industry between China and major PV powers to master the technological innovation structure of China’s PV industry. For this purpose, the article analyzes the relative evolution of the data above and profiles the structure of PV industry technological innovation by employing the social network analysis (SNA). Multiple linear regression was applied to analyze driving factors of the PV industry and its mechanism. The results show that: (i) Compared with other major economies, China’s PV industry is characterized by hysteresis, rapid advancement, and industry chain bias towards the midstream and downstream. (ii) The connection of the whole technological network gradually tends to be direct and diversified, but the tightness of the integral connection is decreasing. (iii) China’s siliceous resource retention is the biggest driving force for the development of PV industry, followed by the investment intensity of research and developement (R&D) in the corresponding industry. Based on the above findings, the article puts forward countermeasure recommendations.
Confronting Medical Diploma Mills: State Licensing Boards, Legislatures, and the Limits of Medical Authority in the 1920s
Authors: Appel Toby A
Published: July 2024

In the standard story of the rise of professional authority in medicine in the 1920s, state medical licensing boards were partners in a coalition, led by the American Medical Association, to radically improve medical education. Boards obtained state laws that limited admission to licensing examinations to graduates of schools approved by the AMA, thus bringing about the rapid demise of low-quality schools by about 1925. The reality at the state level was quite different, however. Medical examining boards containing homeopaths, eclectics, and sometimes osteopaths could be far from reliable partners. Passing laws to benefit the medical profession was exceedingly difficult and dependent on local medical politics. Through the lens of a major medical diploma mill scandal revealed by a journalist in 1923, this paper examines reform efforts in three states greatly affected by the scandal: Missouri, where the scandal originated, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. In each of these states, graduates of low-quality schools as well as fake doctors from diploma mills were able to take a state examination and practice. This paper argues that the AMA, far from being the major player in the elimination of inadequate schools, could set standards but had to stay on the sidelines.
Functional studies of McSTE24, McCYP305a1, and McJHEH, three essential genes act in cantharidin biosynthesis in the blister beetle (Coleoptera: Meloidae)
Authors: Huang Yi , Shen Ling , Du Fang , Wang Zhongkang , Yin Youping
Published: July 2024

Cantharidin is a toxic defensive substance secreted by most blister beetles when attacked. It has been used to treat many complex diseases since ancient times and has recently regained popularity as an anticancer agent. However, the detailed mechanism of the cantharidin biosynthesis has not been completely addressed. In this study, we cloned McSTE24 (encoding STE24 endopeptidase) from terpenoid backbone pathway, McCYP305a1 (encoding cytochrome P450, family 305) and McJHEH [encoding subfamily A, polypeptide 1 and juvenile hormone (JH) epoxide hydrolase] associated to JH synthesis/degradation in the blister beetle Mylabris cichorii (Linnaeus, 1758, Coleoptera: Meloidae). Expression pattern analyses across developmental stages in adult males revealed that the expressions of 3 transcripts were closely linked to cantharidin titer exclusively during the peak period of cantharidin synthesis (20–25 days old). In contrast, at other stages, these genes may primarily regulate different biological processes. When RNA interference with double-stranded RNA suppressed the expressions of the 3 genes individually, significant reductions in cantharidin production were observed in males and also in females following McJHEH knockdown, indicating that these 3 genes might primarily contribute to cantharidin biosynthesis in males, but not in females, while females could self-synthesis a small amount of cantharidin. These findings support the previously hypothesized sexual dimorphism in cantharidin biosynthesis during the adult phase. McCYP305a1 collaborates with its upstream gene McSTE24 in cantharidin biosynthesis, while McJHEH independently regulates cantharidin biosynthesis in males.