bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two stage beamforming and combining scheme for FDD massive MIMO systems with multi‐antenna users
Authors: Zheng Wu , Liu Chen , Song Yunchao , Gao Tianbao
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a two‐stage beamforming and combining scheme in frequency division duplex (FDD) massive multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems with multi‐antenna users. Specifically, the proposed scheme is a two‐stage scheme, where the pre‐beamforming matrix and pre‐combining matrix are designed using the channel covariance matrix (CCM) in the first stage. The problem of the pre‐beamforming matrix and pre‐combining matrix design are formulated as an 0–1 quadratic integer programming problem. To solve this problem, it is further transformed into an 0–1 mixed linear integer programming problem. In the second stage, the sparse code multiple access and multi‐user precoding and combining are adopted to mitigate the inter‐user interference. Different from the previous transmission scheme using CCM, the proposed scheme consider the multi‐antenna user system, and uses the CCM to design both the pre‐beamforming and pre‐combining matrices to sparsify the effective channel matrix, such that the overhead of pilot and feedback can be reduced. Moreover, the sparse code multiple access can help to better reduce the inter‐user interference. Simulation results validate the good performance of the proposed scheme.
An experimental test of endfire synthetic aperture sonar for sediment characterisation
Authors: Steele Shannon‐Morgan , Lyons Anthony P.
Published: July 2024

The validation of seafloor scattering models used for seabed characterisation requires quantifying the contributions from the sediment interface and volume to the total acoustic returns. At low‐frequencies, direct measurements of sediment volume scattering have rarely been made, due to the bias in interface roughness scattering caused by large beamwidths of low‐frequency sonars. Endfire Synthetic Aperture Sonar (EF‐SAS) can achieve narrower beamwidths by forming a vertically oriented synthetic array as a transmitter and/or receiver and moving it through the water column. The narrower beamwidths achieved by EF‐SAS allow for more accurate measurements of volume scattering by reducing interface scattering bias in acoustic returns. The application of EF‐SAS for sediment characterisation is explored for the first time. The authors demonstrate that EF‐SAS can be used to construct the angular response curve for both interface and volume scattering as well as to estimate the attenuation and reflection coefficients, which can be inverted for grain size.
Application research on vector coherent frequency‐domain batch adaptive line enhancement in deep water
Authors: Li He , Wang Tong , Guo Xinyi , Su Lin , Mo Yaxiao
Published: July 2024

The low frequency line spectrum noise radiated by ships has strong stability and is difficult to eliminate, which is the key information required for passive signal detection. A vector coherent frequency‐domain batch adaptive line enhancement method is proposed to address the issue of insufficient detection capability of traditional scalar adaptive line enhancement (ALE) algorithms for ship characteristic line spectra in complex deep‐sea environments. This method not only introduces the idea of frequency‐domain batch processing, but also uses synchronously collected sound pressure and particle velocity as dual input, fully utilising the coherence characteristics between vector channels to output high gain line spectrum signals and improve computational efficiency. In simulation and sea trial data validation, compared with the time‐domain vector coherent adaptive line enhancement algorithm, this method has shorter time consumption, higher efficiency, and can improve the detection ability of line spectrum signals under low signal‐to‐noise ratio conditions. The bearing estimation results output by this algorithm is also more accurate.
Study the potential of micro laser sintering additive manufacturing technology for metallic 3D printing horn antenna structure
Authors: Hossain Sheikh Dobir , Lohani Bhushan , Price Ryan M. , Roberts Robert Christopher
Published: July 2024

Applications for an antenna structure produced with additive manufacturing technology are numerous and promising. This study focuses explicitly on utilizing micro‐laser sintering (MLS) three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology to fabricate two rectangular horn antennas identical to a standard Pasternack® horn antenna, making the fabrication straightforward. The objective is to investigate how surface roughness affects antenna performance in a frequency range of 18 to 26.5 GHz. One antenna is polished and the other is left untouched, resulting in surface roughness of 4 and 6 µm, respectively, measured using a profilometer. Then, a vector network analyzer was used to assess their reflection coefficient, transmission characteristics, and radiation pattern and determine gains of 8.83 and 9.14 dBi for the polished and unpolished antennas, respectively. The study finds that both polished and unpolished antennas perform similarly, and their characteristics closely resembling simulated and standard antennas. Finally, the performance of the MLS‐printed metallic antennas is compared with horn antennas created using other 3D printing techniques. It reveals that the MLS‐printed metallic structures exhibit better performance, indicating that the MLS technology has great potential to print 3D metallic electromagnetic designs.
ZTF SN Ia DR2: Peculiar velocities’ impact on the Hubble diagram
Authors: Carreres B. , Rosselli D. , Bautista J. E. , Feinstein F. , Fouchez D. , Racine B. , Ravoux C. , Sanchez B. , Dimitriadis G. , Goobar A. , Johansson J. , Nordin J. , Rigault M. , Smith M. , Amenouche M. , Aubert M. , Barjou-Delayre C. , Burgaz U. , D’Arcy Kenworthy W. , De Jaeger T. , Dhawan S. , Galbany L. , Ginolin M. , Kuhn D. , Kowalski M. , Müller-Bravo T. E. , Nugent P. E. , Popovic B. , Rosnet P. , Ruppin F. , Sollerman J. , Terwel J. H. , Townsend A. , Groom S. L. , Kulkarni S. R. , Purdum J. , Rusholme B. , Sravan N.
Published: July 2024

Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) are used to determine the distance-redshift relation and build the Hubble diagram. Neglecting their host-galaxy peculiar velocities (PVs) may bias the measurement of cosmological parameters. The smaller the redshift, the larger the effect is. We used realistic simulations of SNe Ia observed by the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) to investigate the effect of different methods of taking PVs into account. We studied the impact of neglecting galaxy PVs and their correlations in an analysis of the SNe Ia Hubble diagram. We find that it is necessary to use the PV full covariance matrix computed from the velocity power spectrum to take the sample variance into account. Considering the results we have obtained using simulations, we determine the PV systematic effects in the context of the ZTF SN Ia DR2 sample. We determine the PV impact on the intercept of the Hubble diagram, aB, which is directly linked to the measurement of H0. We show that not taking into account PVs and their correlations results in a shift in the H0 value of about 1.0 km s−1 Mpc−1 and a slight underestimation of the H0 error bar.
Research on the Adjustment Strategy and Effect Evaluation of Oilfield in the Late Stage of Water Drive with Ultra High Water Cut
Authors: Ying Zhaochun
Published: July 2024

This article delves into the adjustment strategies for high water cut oil fields in the later stage of water flooding and their impact on oilfield performance. We conducted a series of experiments, including optimizing the layout of injection wells, comparing water quality improvement measures, comparing oilfield management and operation strategies, and applying efficient oil recovery technologies, to analyze and evaluate the effects of different strategies in detail. The experimental results indicate that the production and recovery rate of the oilfield show a stable increase over time, starting from an initial value of approximately 95 units. At the end of the 10th time cycle, this indicator accumulated to around 950 units. This indicates that artificial lifting technology has shown stable performance in improving oilfield performance. The results of this study emphasize the importance of adjusting strategies. By optimizing the layout of water injection wells, improving water quality, optimizing management and operation, and applying efficient oil recovery technologies, it is possible to significantly increase the production and recovery rate of oil fields in the later stage of water flooding with ultra-high water content, reduce the expansion of water shear zones, and achieve better economic benefits and sustainable development. These results are of great significance for practical applications in the field of petroleum engineering.
Toxic effects of tobacco on soil worms in densely populated cities
Authors: Pyatina Ekaterina , Bulgakova Marina
Published: July 2024

Soil contamination by cigarette butts has become a serious problem in recent years. The culture of earthworms Eisenia foetida (Sav, 1826) has been used in this scientific work as an object for research. The toxic effects of tobacco were investigated during vermicomposting of cigarette butts. Analysis of changes in the age structure of the population showed that the most resistant to the action of toxic units are sexually mature individuals and juveniles. Larvae and juveniles are most sensitive to soil contamination by cigarette butts. The tested earthworm populations under the influence of experimental drawings lost the productivity of their cocoons. Thus, regular dropping of cigarette butts on the soil surface leads to gradual destruction of earthworms in urban soil.
Estimation of organic carbon stocks in bottom sediments of Middle Kaban lake (Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan)
Authors: Ziganshin Irek , Ivanov Dmitriy , Mukhametzyanova Lilia
Published: July 2024

The lakes has an enormous sediment carbon storage potential. This study aims to estimate sediment organic carbon stock in the of Middle Kaban lake, Republic of Tatarstan. The study revealed that the in the surface layer of lake sediments carbon stocks amount to 1134 tons. Total organic carbon stocks in the bottom sediments of Middle Kaban lake amount to 5986 tons. In CO2 equivalent, 21949 tons of greenhouse gases are accumulated in the lake bottom sediments.
Structure and heterogeneity of the Cladocera taphocoenoses in lakes of the Sredny Island (Keretsky archipelago, Kandalaksha bay of the White Sea)
Authors: Vetluzhskikh Sergey D. , Nigmatullin Niyaz M. , Smirnov Andrey A. , Frolova Larisa A.
Published: July 2024

Surface sediments, which were selected from various depths in three lakes of the Sredny Island (Karelia, Russia), were analyzed for subfossil Cladocera assemblages. In total at least 30 taxa remains were identified in samples of surface sediments. Predominance of cold-water littoral and cosmopolitan taxa was noted according to biotypic characteristic. EurybiontChydoruscf.sphaericusand typical of wetlands, the phytophilousAlonella nana, were most common in Cladocera taphocoenoses. Spatial heterogeneity was noted in subfossil Cladocera assemblages from various depths. Pelagic taxa proportion increased just as littoral taxa proportion decreased towards the center of lake. Several species remains were only found in littoral surface sediments samples.
Study of biodegradability of chitosan-based antibacterial films
Authors: Khubiev O.M. , Esakova V.E. , Sikaona N.D. , Salokho D.S. , Semenkova D.I.
Published: July 2024

In one of our previous works, we obtained films based on chitosan, glycerol, and iron (III) cations. These films possess antibacterial properties, thus they can find applications in the food industry and medicine. In this study, we evaluated the biodegradability of previously described films by keeping them in soil for 4 weeks. For the control experiment, we utilized soil that underwent thermal treatment several times during the experiment. 4 out of 5 samples demonstrated mass loss slightly different from the mass loss in the control experiment (the difference in mass loss compared to the control for these samples did not exceed 3%). This might indicate that their mass loss was solely related to the dissolution process. The last sample, containing chitosan, iron chloride, glycerol, and a chitosanderived cation, exhibited a 40% decrease in mass, which is 26% more compared to the control experiment.
Water Bodies of Kazan and Their Significance in the City’s Avifauna Conservation
Authors: Rakhimov Ilgizar , Ignashev Nikita , Murtazin Askar , Yakovenko Kirill
Published: July 2024

Water bodies that serve as habitats for semi-aquatic birds have been preserved in the city of Kazan, which contributes to the conservation of the city's avifauna diversity. Previously, special studies of birds in the water bodies of Kazan were not conducted. The study is aimed at the investigation of the species composition and distribution of the avifauna in water bodies of Kazan, as well as the ecological features of specific semiaquatic fauna species of the city. The research carried out over the past twenty-five years has made it possible to identify the species composition, their distribution, and ecological features of particular bird species associated with aquatic ecosystems. In total, 64 bird species of nine bird orders are recorded within the city of Kazan. The number of particular species and their spatial distribution in the city's water bodies depends on the specific conditions of the water object, where human activity is the major limiting factor. The most numerous species during the breeding period are the black-headed gull and the mallard. Nesting of 26 species has been recorded. A number of species, such as the mallard, show broad potential for synanthropization. The great-crested grebe, the coot and several species of ducks actively colonize the city reservoirs. A number of rare bird species listed in the Red Book of Tatarstan were recorded, including nesting of the mute swan, the moorhen.
Bridging Gaps in Wearable Technology for Exercise and Health
Professionals: A Brief Review
Authors: Schumann Moritz , Doherty Cailbhe
Published: July 2024

The proliferation of wearable devices, especially over the past decade, has been
remarkable. Wearable technology is used not only by competitive and recreational
athletes but is also becoming an integral part of healthcare and public health
settings. However, despite the technological advancements and improved
algorithms offering rich opportunities, wearables also face several obstacles.
This review aims to highlight these obstacles, including the prerequisites for
harnessing wearables to improve performance and health, the need for data
accuracy and reproducibility, user engagement and adherence, ethical
considerations in data harvesting, and potential future research directions.
Researchers, healthcare professionals, coaches, and users should be cognizant of
these challenges to unlock the full potential of wearables for public health
research, disease surveillance, outbreak prediction, and other important
applications. By addressing these challenges, the impact of wearable technology
can be significantly enhanced, leading to more precise and personalized health
interventions, improved athletic performance, and more robust public health
strategies. This paper underscores the transformative potential of wearables and
their role in advancing the future of exercise prescription, sports medicine and
health.
Evolution of superconductivity in twisted graphene multilayers
Authors: Long Min , Jimeno-Pozo Alejandro , Sainz-Cruz Héctor , Pantaleón Pierre A. , Guinea Francisco
Published: July 2024

The group of moiré graphene superconductors keeps growing, and by now it contains twisted graphene multilayers as well as untwisted stacks. We analyze here the contribution of long-range charge fluctuations in the superconductivity of twisted double bilayers and helical trilayers, and compare the results to twisted bilayer graphene. A diagrammatic approach which depends on a few, well-known parameters is used. We find that the critical temperature and the order parameter differ significantly between twisted double bilayers and helical trilayers on one hand, and twisted bilayer graphene on the other. This trend, consistent with experiments, can be associated with the role played by moiré Umklapp processes in the different systems.
Study on the mixed lubrication of rough planar extrusion considering surface texture
Authors: Su Xubin , Shao Wen , Tang Jinyuan , Li Xin
Published: July 2024

Surface texture plays a crucial role in fluid dynamic lubrication. The non-Newtonian thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication problem involving rough surfaces with texture has not been investigated to date. In this paper, a model for non-Newtonian thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication incorporating rough surfaces and texture morphology is developed, focusing on the problem of mixed lubrication in planar extrusion with texture. The model builds upon the Reynolds equation with flow factor introduced. It considers the effects of rough surface texture, thermal effects, and non-Newtonian effects. The Reynolds equation is numerically solved using the Semi-System method to calculate the oil film pressure in full film region and contact pressure in dry contact area. The DC-FFT algorithm is employed to calculate surface elastic deformation. Comparing the calculated friction coefficient of the present model with the measured values in literature experiments, the average error is only 6.94%. Furthermore, the study investigates the effects of texture, temperature, and non-Newtonian on interfacial lubrication performance under mixed lubrication conditions. It’s found that compared to untextured surface, the average film thickness of textured surface increased by a maximum of 10.8%, and the friction coefficient decreased by a maximum of 67.4%; Compared to Newtonian fluids, shear thinning fluids reduce temperature by 0.18%, and shear thickening fluids are more conducive to improving mixed lubrication performance. A stepped pit texture is designed based on the dynamic pressure mechanism of the texture, indicating that the circular stepped pit texture has the best load-bearing capacity improvement.
Giant resistance switch in twisted transition metal dichalcogenide tunnel junctions
Authors: Vila Marc
Published: July 2024

Resistance switching in multilayer structures are typically based on materials possessing ferroic orders. Here we predict an extremely large resistance switching based on the relative spin–orbit splitting in twisted transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) monolayers tunnel junctions. Because of the valence band spin splitting which depends on the valley index in the Brillouin zone, the perpendicular electronic transport through the junction depends on the relative reciprocal space overlap of the spin-dependent Fermi surfaces of both layers, which can be tuned by twisting one layer. Our quantum transport calculations reveal a switching resistance larger than

10
6

%

when the relative alignment of TMDs goes from 0∘ to 60∘ and when the angle is kept fixed at 60∘ and the Fermi level is varied. By creating vacancies, we evaluate how inter-valley scattering affects the efficiency and find that the resistance switching remains large (

10
4

%

) for typical values of vacancy concentration. Not only should this resistance switching be observed at room temperature due to the large spin splitting, but our results also show how twist angle engineering and control of van der Waals heterostructures could be used for next-generation memory and electronic applications.
Tribological manufacturing of ZDDP tribofilms functionalised by graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Duston S , Oliver R A , Kubiak K J , Wang Y , Wang C , Morina A
Published: July 2024

3D Tribo-Nanoprinting (3D TNP), which uses a highly controllable tribological contact to deposit tribofilms, has been proposed as a manufacturing method for nanoscale structures. Inspired by this, we show for the first time, as a proof of concept, the ability to electrically functionalise tribofilms for potential use in the manufacture of structures with nanoscale thickness. Zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) tribofilms have been generated to include varying concentrations of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) resulting in them becoming electrically conductive when tested using conductive atomic force microscopy. In its highest GNP concentration, approximately 55% of the surface of the tribofilm was able to sustain current up to a threshold of 245 pA. The higher graphene content led to a suppression in film formation and decreased substrate coverage. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a dual-layered tribofilm with a carbon-rich layer above a pure layer of ZDDP tribofilm. Within the carbon-rich layer, the GNPs formed into scrolls which created an internal network through which current could flow, being limited by the insulating pure ZDDP layer at the film-substrate interface, and the presence of surface graphene sheets. A modified lateral force microscopy procedure supported the presence of surface graphene sheets. Despite limited deposition precision in terms of homogeneity and distribution of the tribofilms, this work provides a step towards the use of 3D TNP for the manufacture of electronic structures on the nanoscale by proving that tribofilms can be functionalised by the addition of particle additives.
Concepts, Innateness, and Why Concept Nativism Is about More Than Just Innate Concepts
Authors: Laurence Stephen , Margolis Eric
Published: July 2024

This chapter does three things. First, it discusses what innateness is, comparing our own view to two nearby views, and defending it against the charge that, because there are so many accounts of what innateness is, the whole notion should just be abandoned. Second, it provides an overview of theories of concepts and different ways of drawing the conceptual/nonconceptual distinction. Finally, it argues that the status of concept nativism isn’t hostage to any particular view about what concepts are or any particular view about how the conceptual/nonconceptual distinction should be drawn. Contrary to a tempting way of thinking about the status of concept nativism, it is both possible and preferable to remain neutral on the question of what the correct theory of concepts is in building a case for concept nativism.
The Argument from Animals
Authors: Laurence Stephen , Margolis Eric
Published: July 2024

This chapter presents the second of our seven arguments for concept nativism—the argument from animals. As in the previous chapters in Part IV, our discussion has a dual focus in that it aims both to clarify the logic of the argument from animals and to use this argument to continue developing the case for our version of concept nativism. Building on the preliminary sketch of the argument from animals in Chapter 4, we show that the argument from animals actually amounts to several distinct arguments, each of which provides independent support for concept nativism. We highlight a number of distinctive advantages associated with each of these and how the argument from animals complements the argument from early development. The main case studies discussed focus on representations of objects, faces, individuals, animals, numerical quantity, and sameness/difference.
Conclusion to Part III
Authors: Laurence Stephen , Margolis Eric
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a brief conclusion to Part III, highlighting some of the important themes in Chapters 17–22. In considering the case for concept nativism, it is necessary to consider not only the arguments and considerations that support concept nativism, but also the most important and influential challenges and alternatives to concept nativism. Part III argues that none of these empiricist challenges or alternatives undermine our case for concept nativism. In fact, the many the problems that we identify for these challenges and alternatives only serve to strengthen our case for concept nativism. At the same time, we recognize that empiricist theorizing has led to important insights and models, which can make an important contribution to theories of conceptual development. But these insights and models can be incorporated into an overall rationalist approach to conceptual development, and this is how they stand to have the greatest impact.
Not All Concepts Are Innate
Authors: Laurence Stephen , Margolis Eric
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive critique of Jerry Fodor’s argument that concept learning is impossible, focusing on his most trenchant argument for this view. Fodor charges that concept learning models invariably presuppose the very concepts whose acquisition they are supposed to explain. The chapter explains exactly where Fodor’s argument goes wrong. We further show that even primitive concepts (concepts that are not composed of other concepts) can be learned, contrary to the widely held Acquisition by Composition model which is associated with Fodor’s argument against concept learning (but which is also endorsed by many of his critics). Finally, we also examine how the learning of primitive concepts is possible assuming different theories of conceptual content and how different types of primitive concepts can be learned, including natural kind concepts, artefact concepts, and concepts of individuals.
Conclusion to Part IV
Authors: Laurence Stephen , Margolis Eric
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a brief conclusion to Part IV of the book, highlighting some of the important themes in Chapters 24–26. Whereas Part III addresses empiricist alternatives to our concept nativism, Part IV argues against both Fodor’s radical concept nativism and his notorious view that concept learning is impossible, while clarifying how our own version of concept nativism compares to Fodor’s radical concept nativism.
World and Underworld
Authors: Lye Suzanne
Published: July 2024

Chapter 5 shows how leaders, authors, and artists in fifth-century bce Athens used Underworld scenes to democratize the afterlife. From ghosts on stage in Aeschylus’ Persians and Aristophanes’ Frogs to grave stelai accompanying public funeral orations for the war dead, Underworld scenes created more points of contact between the living and the dead in everyday civic spaces to reinforce political narratives defining Athenian identity. Underworld scenes across media in this period not only questioned the finality of death but also made the barrier between the living and the dead more permeable with the result that a blessed, Golden Age–type afterlife was perceived to be more accessible to all individuals. By making a role for the dead in civic life, Underworld scenes became tools for political propaganda to generate popular support for Athenians’ self-image and ongoing military conflicts, particularly during times of strife.
Epilogue
Authors: Lye Suzanne
Published: July 2024

This Epilogue examines the later reception of ancient Greek Underworld scenes across time and cultural contexts and reaffirms the methodology of treating Underworld scenes as hypertextual commentaries. This chapter shows the persistence and stability of Greek Underworld scenes as a locus of embedded authorial commentary. Using examples from Vergil’s Underworld scene in Aeneid 6 and Lucian’s satirical dialogues involving the dead (e.g., the True History, Dialogues of the Dead, and Downward Journey), this Epilogue reflects on the long use of Underworld scenes to give sharp social and political commentaries by couching criticism and propaganda in mythological and literary term. The book concludes with a reflection on how Underworld scenes and their hypertextual poetics have been used for millennia to reinforce values, stoke revolutions in thought, and influence the reception of different ideologies and artistic products.
Anna Jameson and Sacred and Legendary Art
Authors: Stone Alison
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines Anna Jameson’s Sacred and Legendary Art, published from 1845 onwards. Existing scholarship focuses on how Jameson reclaims positive female figures from religious art, but I look at her wider conception of art. For Jameson, art is always expressive of the wider civilization it belongs to, specifically that civilization’s religious beliefs. She distinguishes two great ages of art: classical Greek and Christian Gothic. Because Christian art strains beyond finite expression, it always needs decoding, and Sacred Art provides this decoding for the heritage of European Christian art. For Jameson, Christian-era art was good art when it genuinely expressed popular Christian beliefs and legends which embodied people’s moral hopes for a better world. Jameson thus forged a triangular link amongst art, religion, and ethics. The chapter closes by considering John Ruskin’s criticisms of Jameson.
Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy with recurrent ventricular tachycardias: from catheter ablation and stereotactic radiotherapy to heart transplant—a case report
Authors: Kautzner Josef , Hašková Jana , Cvek Jakub , Adamíra Marek , Peichl Petr
Published: July 2024

Background

Management of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is often challenging, depending on clinical manifestation. This case report illustrates the complex treatment of HOCM with associated recurrent ventricular arrhythmias.

Case summary

A 54-year-old female with HOCM diagnosed in 2012 underwent a failed attempt for alcohol septal ablation, implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, and repeated radiofrequency ablations (including ablation of the septal bulge to reduce LV obstruction). For ventricular tachycardia (VT) recurrences, she had stereotactic arrhythmia radioablation with subsequent epicardial cryoablation from mini-thoracotomy, and endocardial ablation with pulsed field energy. The situation was finally solved by mechanical support and heart transplantation.

Discussion

A few important lessons can be learned from the case. First, radiofrequency ablation was used successfully to decrease left outflow tract obstruction. Second, stereotactic radiotherapy has been used after four previous endo/epicardial catheter ablations to decrease the recurrences of VT. Third, mini-thoracotomy was used after previous epicardial ablation with subsequent adhesions to modify the epicardial substrate with cryoenergy. Fourth, pulsed field ablation of atrial fibrillation resulted in an excellent therapeutic effect. Fifth, pulsed field ablation was also used to modify the substrate for VT, and was complicated by transient AV block with haemodynamic deterioration requiring mechanical support. Finally, a heart transplant was the ultimate solution in the management of recurrent VT.
Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of flowering regulation and vernalization in Chinese cabbage shoot apex
Authors: Dai Yun , Zhang Shifan , Guan Jiantao , Wang Shaoxing , Zhang Hui , Li Guoliang , Sun Rifei , Li Fei , Zhang Shujiang
Published: July 2024

In Chinese cabbage development the interplay between shoot apex activity and vernalization is pivotal for flowering timing. The intricate relationship between various cell types in the shoot apex meristem and their roles in regulating flowering gene expression in Chinese cabbage is not yet fully understood. A thorough analysis of single-cell types in the Chinese cabbage shoot apex and their influence on flowering genes and vernalization is essential for deeper insight. Our study first established a single-cell transcriptomic atlas of Chinese cabbage after 25 days of non-vernalization. Analyzing 19 602 single cells, we differentiated them into 15 distinct cell clusters using established marker genes. We found that key genes in shoot apex development and flowering were primarily present in shoot meristematic cells (SMCs), companion cells (CCs), and mesophyll cells (MCs). MADS-box protein FLOWERING LOCUS C 2 (BrFLC2), a gene suppressing flowering, was observed in CCs, mirroring patterns found in Arabidopsis. By mapping developmental trajectories of SMCs, CCs, and MCs, we elucidated the evolutionary pathways of crucial genes in shoot apex development and flowering. The creation of a single-cell transcriptional atlas of the Chinese cabbage shoot apex under vernalization revealed distinct alterations in the expression of known flowering genes, such as VERNALIZATION INSENSITIVE 3 (VIN3), VERNALIZATION 1 (VRN1), VERNALIZATION 2 (VRN2), BrFLC, and FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), which varied by cell type. Our study underscores the transformative impact of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) for unraveling the complex differentiation and vernalization processes in the Chinese cabbage shoot apex. These insights are pivotal for enhancing breeding strategies and cultivation management of this vital vegetable.
Core microbiome-associated proteins associated with ulcerative colitis interact with cytokines for synergistic or antagonistic effects on gut bacteria
Authors: Zhang Ting , Zhong Hang , Lin Lu , Zhang Zhiyan , Xue Kewen , He Feixiang , Luo Yingshu , Wang Panpan , Zhao Zhi , Cong Li , Pang Pengfei , Li Xiaofeng , Shan Hong , Yan Zhixiang
Published: July 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is associated with a loss or an imbalance of host–microorganism interactions. However, such interactions at protein levels remain largely unknown. Here, we applied a depletion-assisted metaproteomics approach to obtain in-depth host–microbiome association networks of IBD, where the core host proteins shifted from those maintaining mucosal homeostasis in controls to those involved in inflammation, proteolysis, and intestinal barrier in IBD. Microbial nodes such as short-chain fatty-acid producer-related host–microbial crosstalk were lost or suppressed by inflammatory proteins in IBD. Guided by protein–protein association networks, we employed proteomics and lipidomics to investigate the effects of UC-related core proteins S100A8, S100A9, and cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) on gut bacteria. These proteins suppressed purine nucleotide biosynthesis in stool-derived in vitro communities, which was also reduced in IBD stool samples. Single species study revealed that S100A8, S100A9, and cytokines can synergistically or antagonistically alter gut bacteria intracellular and secreted proteome, with combined S100A8 and S100A9 potently inhibiting beneficial Bifidobacterium adolescentis. Furthermore, these inflammatory proteins only altered the extracellular but not intracellular proteins of Ruminococcus gnavus. Generally, S100A8 induced more significant bacterial proteome changes than S100A9, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α but gut bacteria degrade significantly more S100A8 than S100A9 in the presence of both proteins. Among the investigated species, distinct lipid alterations were only observed in Bacteroides vulgatus treated with combined S100A8, S100A9, and cytokines. These results provided a valuable resource of inflammatory protein-centric host–microbial molecular interactions.
Sequent calculi and an efficient theorem prover for conditional logics with selection function semantics
Authors: Gliozzi Valentina , Pozzato Gian Luca , Tessore Gabriele , Valese Alberto
Published: July 2024

In this paper we present our final solution to the problem of designing an efficient theorem prover for Conditional Logics with the selection function semantics. Conditional Logics recently have received a renewed attention and have found several applications in knowledge representation and artificial intelligence. In order to provide an efficient theorem prover for Conditional Logics, we introduce labelled sequent calculi for the logics characterized by well-established axioms systems including the axiom of strong centering CS, the axiom of conditional identity ID, the axiom of conditional modus ponens MP, as well as the conditional third excluded middle CEM, rejected by Lewis but endorsed by Stalnaker, as well as for the whole cube of extensions. The proposed calculi revise and improve the calculi SeqS introduced in Olivetti et al. (2007, ACM Trans. Comput. Logics, 8). We also present an implementation of these calculi in SWI Prolog, including a graphical interface in Python as well as standard heuristics and refinements that allow us to obtain an efficient theorem prover for the logics under consideration. Moreover, we present some statistics about the performances of the theorem prover, which are promising and significantly better than those of its predecessor CondLean, an implementation of the calculi SeqS.
Operating room scheduling via answer set programming: Improved encoding and test on real data
Authors: Dodaro Carmine , Galatà Giuseppe , Gebser Martin , Maratea Marco , Marte Cinzia , Mochi Marco , Scanu Marco
Published: July 2024

The Operating Room Scheduling (ORS) problem deals with the optimization of daily operating room surgery schedules. It is a challenging problem subject to many constraints, like to determine the starting time of different surgeries and allocating the required resources, including the availability of beds in different units. In the past years, Answer Set Programming (ASP) has been successfully employed for addressing and solving the ORS problem. Despite its importance, due to the inherent difficulty of retrieving real data, all the analyses on ORS ASP encodings have been performed on synthetic data so far. In this paper, first we present a new, improved ASP encoding for the ORS problem. Then, we deal with the real case of ASL1 Liguria, an Italian health authority operating through three hospitals, and present adaptations of the ASP encodings to deal with the real-world data. Further, we analyse the resulting encodings on hospital scheduling data by ASL1 Liguria. Results on some scenarios show that the ASP solutions produce satisfying schedules also when applied to such challenging, real data.1
Local wisdom in psychosocial handling of women earthquake survivors in Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu Romika , Rifqi Miˈrajul , Pohan Rizky Andana
Published: July 2024

This article highlights local Indonesian wisdom in the psychosocial treatment of female earthquake survivors, including interaction with nature, God and fellow humans, which helps reduce the psychological impact through activities such as reading the Koran, praying and cooking together in the refugee camp’s public kitchen.
Structures and Processes of Grading Committees in Internal Medicine Clerkships: Results of a National Survey
Authors: Alexandraki Irene , Osman Nora , Ratcliffe Temple , Simon Wendy , McBee Elexis , Kisielewski Michael , Lai Cindy J.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Clerkship grades are important in the residency selection process but can be influenced by individual bias and grading tendencies. Although clinical competency committees are standard in graduate medical education, in undergraduate medical education, they have not gained widespread traction. This study describes structures and processes of grading committees in internal medicine (IM) clerkships and strategies used to mitigate grading bias.

Method

From September to December 2022, the Clerkship Directors in Internal Medicine conducted its annual survey of IM core clerkship directors at 140 U.S. and U.S. territory–based medical schools. This study was based on 23 questions about grading committees in IM clerkships.

Results

The survey response rate was 80% (n = 112/140). Forty-seven respondents (42%) reported using grading committees in their IM clerkship (median committee size, 7; range, 3–20) (primarily clerkship leadership and faculty). Responsibilities included determining grades for all students (31 [66%]) and students at borderline of failing (30 [64%]), adjudicating on students with professionalism concerns (25 [53%]), and reconciling discordant clinical evaluations (24 [51%]). To mitigate deliberation bias, committees most frequently used multisource assessments (38 [81%]) and adoption of a shared mental model (36 [77%]). Approximately one-third of grading committees “rarely” discussed gender (14 [30%]) and race or ethnicity (15 [32%]), and 7 committees (15%) “never” discussed gender and race or ethnicity. Clerkship directors perceived developing a shared mental model (60 [92%]), promoting consistency (59 [91%]) and transparency (57 [88%]) in the process, mitigating assessment bias (58 [89%]), improving student satisfaction (54 [83%]), and sharing grading responsibility (44 [68%]) as potential benefits.

Conclusions

This study found that grading committees in IM clerkships are not widely used and that existing committees vary in structure and process. These findings highlight an opportunity for medical schools to consider using grading committees to improve grade assignment and address grading inconsistencies.
BAP1 loss confers sensitivity to bromodomain and extra-terminal inhibitors in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Shi Wen-hui , Liu Xiao-lian , Zhou Run-hua , Zhang Gui-ming , Chen Liang , Zhou Yan-ling , Jin Xuan-yu , Yu Le , Li Yi-lei
Published: July 2024

The tumor suppressor gene BRCA1 associated protein-1 (BAP1) is frequently mutated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). BAP1 loss-of-function mutations are associated with poor survival outcomes. However, personalized therapy for BAP1-mutated RCC is currently not available. Previously, we found that BAP1 loss renders RCC cells more sensitive to bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors, as demonstrated in both cell culture and xenografted nude mice models. Here, we demonstrate that BAP1 loss in murine RCC cells enhances sensitivity to BET inhibitors in ectopic and orthotopic allograft models. While BAP1 deletion suppresses RCC cell survival in vitro, it does not impede tumor growth in immunocompetent murine models. Thus, the effect of BAP1 loss on the interactions between tumor cells and host microenvironment plays a predominant role in RCC growth, highlighting the importance of utilizing immunocompetent animal models to assess the efficacy of potential anticancer therapies. Mechanistically, BAP1 deletion compromises DNA repair capacity, rendering RCC cells more vulnerable to DNA damage induced by BET inhibitors. Our results indicate that BET inhibitors show promise as targeted therapy for BAP1-deficient RCC.
Extended survival in a case of metastatic choroidal melanoma with immunotherapy
Authors: Mirzayev Ibadulla , Gündüz Ahmet Kaan , Mirzayeva Leyla , Ceyhan Koray
Published: July 2024

Uveal melanoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in adults. Despite advances in local treatments, approximately 50% of all cases eventually die from metastatic disease. In cases with metastasis, 2- and 5-year survival rates are approximately 10% and <1%, respectively. Advances in molecular biology have led to the identification of a number of promising drugs including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Ipilimumab and nivolumab are ICIs targeting the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 and the programmed-cell death protein-1, respectively. Herein, we present a case of choroidal melanoma having liver metastasis treated with nivolumab and ipilimumab and transarterial radioembolization, achieving a 3-year survival.
The Circulasome: A Unifying Theory of Flap Vascularity
Authors: Izadpanah Amin , Alt Eckhard U. , Izadpanah Reza
Published: July 2024

Despite the critical roles of nondominant perforators, choke vessels, and direct and indirect linking vessels in flap vascularity, current models of flap perfusion focus on a primary large caliber perforators. The delay phenomenon, microvascularization, neovascularization, and vascular evolution, which depend on smaller caliber vessels, remain unaccounted for. We propose that the “circulasome” consists of the sum of the entire vascular components of a given region, such that the region is supplied by a primary supplying vessel. The circulasome represents one of the indices of flap supply and is proportional to the angiogenic potential of the region and the vascular substrate capable of promoting growth of vascular networks. By accounting for both the primary flap supplying vessel and secondary vascular structures, the circulasome provides a unifying explanation for neovascularization, delay phenomenon, angiosome and perforasome theories, and vascular evolution in flaps.
Evaluating the small aperture intraocular lens: depth of focus and the role of refraction and preoperative corneal astigmatism in visual performance
Authors: Vukich John , Thompson Vance , Yeu Elizabeth , Wiley William F. , Bafna Shamik , Koch Douglas D. , Lin Ling , Michna Magda
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate depth of focus (DOF) and visual acuities (VAs) by manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE) and degree of preoperative corneal astigmatism with the IC-8 small aperture intraocular lens (SA IOL) (Apthera).

Setting:

21 investigational sites in the United States.

Design:

Prospective, multicenter, open-label, parallel-group, nonrandomized, examiner-masked, 1-year clinical study.

Methods:

Included patients had cataract and ≤1.5 diopters (D) preoperative corneal astigmatism. Patients received either the SA IOL in 1 eye targeted to −0.75 D and a monofocal or monofocal toric IOL in the other targeted to plano (SA IOL group) or bilateral monofocal/monofocal toric IOLs targeted to plano (control group). Monocular and binocular assessments included defocus curves and uncorrected VAs (distance, intermediate, and near) by postoperative MRSE; monocular VAs were assessed by degree of preoperative corneal astigmatism.

Results:

The SA IOL group (n = 343) achieved 0.82 D additional binocular DOF vs the control group (n = 110), and SA IOL eyes achieved 0.91 D additional monocular DOF over fellow eyes. Across all MRSEs, the SA IOL group achieved monocular uncorrected VAs of 20/40 or better and binocular uncorrected VAs of 20/32 or better across all distances. In addition, SA IOL eyes with higher (1.0-1.5 D) vs lower (<1.0 D) preoperative corneal astigmatism achieved equivalent monocular uncorrected VAs.

Conclusions:

The SA IOL provides increased DOF vs monofocal/monofocal toric IOLs and consistent monocular and binocular vision across several postoperative MRSEs and up to 1.5 D of preoperative corneal astigmatism, giving patients with cataract and mild astigmatism the potential for an extended range of vision and reliable visual outcomes.
A reflection on the value of participating in a journal club: Early findings from a transition to practice program
Authors: Hicks Rodney W.
Published: July 2024

The column describes the intersection of a transition to practice program for advance practice providers and incorporating monthly journal club activities. Reflections on the value of the journal club highlight opportunities for education, clinical care, and system-level care.
Vulvar Inspection During Cervical Cancer Screening Procedures: The Ugly Reality
Authors: Preti Mario , Anderson Karin , Venturino Ezio , Maggino Tiziano , Carozzi Francesca , Robba Eleonora , Vieira-Baptista Pedro , Borella Fulvio , Barchi Laura , Bevilacqua Federica , Gallio Niccolò , Barbierato Ilaria , Pollano Benedetta , Cavallero Camilla , Gardner-Medwin Samuel , Benedetto Chiara , Bucchi Lauro
Published: July 2024

Vulvar examination during procedures for cervical carcinoma screening (CCS) can be a valid chance for early diagnosis of vulvar diseases and precancerous lesions. With this aim an online questionnaire was sent to the members of the Italian Cervical Carcinoma Screening Group (GISCi) from either first level group (FLG, Pap/human papillomavirus test sampling) or second level group (SLG, colposcopy and treatments) to assess if and how vulvar examination was performed. 86% of FLG and 90.2% of SLG report performing vulvar examination prior to CCS procedures. 15% of SLG cannot manage basic vulvar diseases and they refer patients to specialized center. 54.3% underline lack of standardized protocol in case of vulvar disease detection. Despite most health care professionals report examining the vulva during CCS procedures, vulvar cancer early diagnosis is still challenging.