bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hitting Sets for Orbits of Circuit Classes and Polynomial Families
Authors: Saha Chandan , Thankey Bhargav
Published: May 2024

The orbit of an
n
-variate polynomial

\(f({\mathbf {x}})\)

over a field

\(\mathbb {F}\)

is the set

\(\text {orb}(f) := \lbrace f(A{\mathbf {x}}+{\mathbf {b}}) : A \in \mathrm{GL}(n,\mathbb {F}) \text{ and } {\mathbf {b}}\in \mathbb {F}^n\rbrace\)

. The orbit of a polynomial
f
is a geometrically interesting subset of the set of affine projections of
f
. Affine projections of polynomials computable by seemingly weak circuit classes can be quite powerful. For example, the polynomial

\(\mathsf {IMM}_{3,d}\)

—the

\((1,1)\)

th entry of a product of
d
generic

\(3 \times 3\)

matrices—is computable by a constant-width read-once oblivious algebraic branching program (ROABP), yet every polynomial computable by a size-
s
general arithmetic formula is an affine projection of

\(\mathsf {IMM}_{3,\text {poly}(s)}\)

as shown by Ben-or and Cleve [
12
]. To our knowledge, no efficient hitting set construction was known for

\(\text {orb}(\mathsf {IMM}_{3, d})\)

before this work.

In this article, we initiate the study of explicit hitting sets for the
orbits
of polynomials computable by several natural and well-studied circuit classes and polynomial families. In particular, we give quasi-polynomial time hitting sets for the orbits of:

Low-individual-degree polynomials computable by
commutative ROABPs
. This implies quasi-polynomial time hitting sets for the orbits of the
elementary symmetric polynomials
and the orbits of
multilinear sparse polynomials
.

Multilinear polynomials computable by
constant-width ROABPs
. This implies a quasi-polynomial time hitting set for the orbits of the family

\(\lbrace \mathsf {IMM}_{3,d}\rbrace _{d \in \mathbb {N}}\)

.

Polynomials computable by
constant-depth, constant-occur formulas
. This implies quasi-polynomial time hitting sets for the orbits of
multilinear depth-4 circuits with constant top fan-in
, and also polynomial-time hitting sets for the orbits of the
power symmetric polynomials
and the
sum-product polynomials
.

Polynomials computable by
occur-once formulas
.

We say a polynomial has low individual degree if the degree of every variable in the polynomial is at most

\(\text {poly}(\log n)\)

, where
n
is the number of variables.

The first two results are obtained by building upon and strengthening the rank concentration by translation technique of Agrawal, Saha, and Saxena [
6
]; the second result additionally uses the merge-and-reduce idea from Forbes and Shpilka [
30
] and Forbes, Shpilka, and Saptharishi [
27
]. The proof of the third result adapts the algebraic independence-based technique of Agrawal, Saha, Saptharishi, and Saxena [
5
] and Beecken, Mittmann, and Saxena [
11
] to reduce to the case of constructing hitting sets for the orbits of sparse polynomials. A similar reduction using the Shpilka-Volkovich (SV) generator-based argument in Shpilka and Volkovich [
90
] yields the fourth result. The SV generator plays an important role in all four results.
CARIn: Constraint-Aware and Responsive Inference on Heterogeneous Devices for Single- and Multi-DNN Workloads
Authors: Panopoulos Ioannis , Venieris Stylianos , Venieris Iakovos
Published: May 2024

The relentless expansion of deep learning applications in recent years has prompted a pivotal shift toward on-device execution, driven by the urgent need for real-time processing, heightened privacy concerns, and reduced latency across diverse domains. This article addresses the challenges inherent in optimising the execution of deep neural networks (DNNs) on mobile devices, with a focus on device heterogeneity, multi-DNN execution, and dynamic runtime adaptation. We introduce
CARIn
, a novel framework designed for the optimised deployment of both single- and multi-DNN applications under user-defined service-level objectives. Leveraging an expressive multi-objective optimisation framework and a runtime-aware sorting and search algorithm (
RASS
) as the MOO solver,
CARIn
facilitates efficient adaptation to dynamic conditions while addressing resource contention issues associated with multi-DNN execution. Notably,
RASS
generates a set of configurations, anticipating subsequent runtime adaptation, ensuring rapid, low-overhead adjustments in response to environmental fluctuations. Extensive evaluation across diverse tasks, including text classification, scene recognition, and face analysis, showcases the versatility of
CARIn
across various model architectures, such as Convolutional Neural Networks and Transformers, and realistic use cases. We observe a substantial enhancement in the fair treatment of the problem’s objectives, reaching 1.92× when compared to single-model designs and up to 10.69× in contrast to the state-of-the-art OODIn framework. Additionally, we achieve a significant gain of up to 4.06× over hardware-unaware designs in multi-DNN applications. Finally, our framework sustains its performance while effectively eliminating the time overhead associated with identifying the optimal design in response to environmental challenges.
Metals at the Host–Fungal Pathogen Battleground
Authors: Garg Ritu , David Marika S. , Yang Shuyi , Culotta Valeria C.
Published: May 2024

Fungal infections continue to represent a major threat to public health, particularly with the emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens. As part of the innate immune response, the host modulates the availability of metals as armament against pathogenic microbes, including fungi. The transition metals Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn are essential micronutrients for all life forms, but when present in excess, these same metals are potent toxins. The host exploits the double-edged sword of these metals, and will either withhold metal micronutrients from pathogenic fungi or attack them with toxic doses. In response to these attacks, fungal pathogens cleverly adapt by modulating metal transport, metal storage, and usage of metals as cofactors for enzymes. Here we review the current state of understanding on Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn at the host–fungal pathogen battleground and provide perspectives for future research, including a hope for new antifungals based on metals.
Lithium Plating at the Cell Edge Induced by Anode Overhang during Cycling in Lithium-Ion Batteries: Part I. Modeling and Mechanism
Authors: Roth Thomas , Frank Alexander , Oehler Fabian , Graule Andreas , Kücher Simon , Jossen Andreas
Published: May 2024

The anode overhang is usually cited to prevent lithium plating at the cell edges of lithium-ion batteries. Still, numerous reports in the literature show lithium plating at the cell edge, which is typically referred to as edge plating. Edge plating is often attributed to inhomogeneous lithium distribution, thermal gradients, or pressure-dependent effects. This work presents an easy-to-implement two-dimensional electrochemical model demonstrating inhomogeneous lithiation induced by the anode overhang, which can explain experimentally observed edge plating. First, the mechanism of inhomogeneous lithiation due to the anode overhang is explained in detail. Then, a parameter study on charge protocol and geometric cell properties is presented, and the implications for cell applications are analyzed. Finally, the findings are discussed and put into a broader perspective of cell design, manufacturing, and fast charging application. In Part II of this work, the simulation is validated experimentally using multi-reference electrode single-layer pouch cells.
Synthesis, Structural Investigations, and Dielectric Properties of Irradiated Flexible Polymeric Composite Films
Authors: Abdelhamied M. M. , Altuijri Reem , Atta A. , Ezzeldien Mohammed
Published: May 2024

In this research, the casting solution manufacturing approach was used to mix polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and copper oxide (CuO) to create the composite (PVA/CuO). X-ray diffraction analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were applied to record the successful fabrications of the composites. Next, argon ion beams at fluencies of 2.5 × 1017, 5 × 1017, and 7.5 × 1017 ions.cm−2 were used to irradiate the composites. In frequencies of 50 Hz to 6 MHz, the dielectric characteristics of PVA/CuO were modified by the ion irradiation. The dielectric constant was enhanced from 39 for unmodified PVA/CuO to 356 for the irradiated composite by 7.5 × 1017 ions.cm−2, and the conductivity changed from 0.05 × 10−6 S cm−1 to 2.9 × 10−6 S cm−1. However, the potential barrier decreased from 0.24 eV for PVA/CuO to 0.21, 0.16, and 0.15 eV, respectively, for 2.5 × 1017, 5 × 1017, and 7.5 × 1017 ions.cm−2, and the relaxation time decreased from 9.36 × 10−8 sec for PVA/CuO, to 6.58 × 10−8 sec for 7.5 × 1017 ions.cm−2. The results indicate that the irradiated PVA/CuO nanocomposite can be used in a number of devices such as capacitors and batteries.
Probiotic and high-fat diet: effects on pain assessment, body composition, and cytokines in male and female adolescent and adult rats
Authors: Raff Hershel , Hainsworth Keri R. , Woyach Victoria L. , Weihrauch Dorothee , Wang Xuemeng , Dean Caron
Published: May 2024

A single-strain probiotic (Lp299v) had a wide range of inhibiting effects on most proinflammatory cytokines (especially IL12p70) measured in this high-fat diet rat model of mild obesity. The positive effect of probiotic on leptin in female adolescent rats is intriguing and worthy of exploration.
Urothelium-derived prostanoids enhance contractility of urinary bladder smooth muscle and stimulate bladder afferent nerve activity in the mouse
Authors: Heppner Thomas J. , Fallon Hannah J. , Rengo Jason L. , Beaulieu Elleanor M. , Hennig Grant W. , Nelson Mark T. , Herrera Gerald M.
Published: May 2024

This paper provides evidence for the role of urothelial-derived prostanoids in maintaining tone in the urinary bladder during bladder filling, not only underscoring the role of the urothelium as more than a barrier but also contributing to active regulation of the urinary bladder. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase products greatly augment sensory nerve activity generated by bladder afferents during bladder filling and thus may play a role in perception of bladder fullness.
Myeloid-specific ferritin light chain deletion does not exacerbate sepsis-associated AKI
Authors: Odum James D. , Akhter Juheb , Verma Vivek , Vollmer Giacynta , Davidson Ahmad , Hyndman Kelly A. , Bolisetty Subhashini
Published: May 2024

Hyperferritinemia in sepsis is often associated with a proinflammatory phenotype and poor prognosis. We previously showed the myeloid deletion of FtH results in a compensatory increase in FtL and is associated with reduced circulating cytokines and decreased rates of SA-AKI in animal sepsis models. Here, we show that myeloid deletion of FtL does not impact the severity of SA-AKI following CLP or LPS, suggesting that FtH plays the predominant role in propagating myeloid-induced proinflammatory pathways.
Therapeutic α-1-microglobulin ameliorates kidney ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Burmakin Mikhail , Gilmour Peter S. , Gram Magnus , Shushakova Nelli , Sandoval Ruben M. , Molitoris Bruce A. , Larsson Tobias E.
Published: May 2024

A therapeutic A1M protein variant (RMC-035) is currently in phase 2 clinical development for renal protection in patients undergoing open-chest cardiac surgery. It targets several key pathways underlying kidney injury in this patient group, including oxidative stress, heme toxicity, and mitochondrial dysfunction. RMC-035 is rapidly eliminated from plasma, distributing to kidney proximal tubules, and demonstrates dose-dependent efficacy in numerous models of ischemia-reperfusion injury, particularly when administered before ischemia. These results support its continued clinical evaluation.
Inhibition of mTORC2 promotes natriuresis in Dahl salt-sensitive rats via the decrease of NCC and ENaC activity
Authors: Yang Chun , Isaeva Elena , Shimada Satoshi , Kurth Theresa , Stumpf Megan , Zheleznova Nadezhda N. , Staruschenko Alexander , Dash Ranjan K. , Cowley Allen W.
Published: May 2024

This study explored mechanisms underlying the natriuretic effects of mammalian target of rapamycin protein complex 2 inhibition using PP242 and revealed both epithelial Na+ channel and Na-Cl cotransporter in the distal tubular segments were potentially inhibited. These observations, with prior lab evidence, indicate that PP242 prevents hypertension via its potent inhibitory effects on these specific sodium transporters and by reducing renal immune responses. This dual action, coupled with potassium sparing effects, suggests an improved approach for managing hypertension and associated kidney damage.
Changes in hypoxic and hypercapnic ventilatory responses at high altitude measured using rebreathing methods
Authors: Frost Shyleen , Pham Kathy , Puvvula Nikhil , Oeung Britney , Heinrich Erica C.
Published: May 2024

We report the first measurements of the hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR) after 2 days at high altitude using a CO2 rebreathing technique. We evaluated mechanisms by which the HVR becomes elevated with acclimatization (increased hypercapnic ventilatory response sensitivity in hypoxia, increased baseline respiratory drive in hypoxia, or lower ventilatory recruitment thresholds in hypoxia). For the first time, we report that decreases in the ventilatory recruitment threshold in hypoxia contribute to elevated HVR at high altitude.
Surprising multifunctionality of a Tritonia swim CPG neuron: C2 drives the early phase of postswim crawling despite being silent during the behavior
Authors: Hill Evan S. , Wang Jean , Brown Jeffrey W. , Mistry Viral K. , Frost William N.
Published: May 2024

Tritonia swim central pattern generator (CPG) neuron C2 surprisingly and strongly drives the early phase of postswim crawling despite being silent during this period. In decades of research, C2 had not been suspected of driving crawling because of its complete silence after the swim. Voltage-sensitive dye imaging revealed that the Tritonia crawling motor network may be much larger than previously known and also revealed that many candidate crawling neurons are excited by C2.
Morphological Accuracy Data Clustering: A Novel Algorithm for Enhanced Cluster Analysis
Authors: Azzam Abdel Fattah , Maghrabi Ahmed , El-Naqeeb Eman , Aldawood Mohammed , ElGhawalby Hewayda
Published: May 2024

In today’s data‐driven world, we are constantly exposed to a vast amount of information. This information is stored in various information systems and is used for analysis and management purposes. One important approach to handle these data is through the process of clustering or categorization. Clustering algorithms are powerful tools used in data analysis and machine learning to group similar data points together based on their inherent characteristics. These algorithms aim to identify patterns and structures within a dataset, allowing for the discovery of hidden relationships and insights. By partitioning data into distinct clusters, clustering algorithms enable efficient data exploration, classification, and anomaly detection. In this study, we propose a novel centroid‐based clustering algorithm, namely, the morphological accuracy clustering algorithm (MAC algorithm). The proposed algorithm uses a morphological accuracy measure to define the centroid of the cluster. The empirical results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves a stable clustering outcome in fewer iterations compared to several existing centroid‐based clustering algorithms. Additionally, the clusters generated by these existing algorithms are highly susceptible to the initial centroid selection made by the user.
Intelligent Stroke Disease Prediction Model Using Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Gao Chunhua , Wang Hui
Published: May 2024

Stroke is a high morbidity and mortality disease that poses a serious threat to people’s health. Early recognition of the various warning signs of stroke is necessary so that timely clinical intervention can help reduce the severity of stroke. Deep neural networks have powerful feature representation capabilities and can automatically learn discriminant features from large amounts of data. This paper uses a range of physiological characteristic parameters and collaborates with deep neural networks, such as the Wasserstein generative adversarial networks with gradient penalty and regression network, to construct a stroke prediction model. Firstly, to address the problem of imbalance between positive and negative samples in the stroke public data set, we performed positive sample data augmentation and utilized WGAN-GP to generate stroke data with high fidelity and used it for the training of the prediction network model. Then, the relationship between observable physiological characteristic parameters and the predicted risk of suffering a stroke was modeled as a nonlinear mapping transformation, and a stroke prediction model based on a deep regression network was designed. Finally, the proposed method is compared with commonly used machine learning-based classification algorithms such as decision tree, random forest, support vector machine, and artificial neural networks. The prediction results of the proposed method are optimal in the comprehensive measurement index F. Further ablation experiments also show that the designed prediction model has certain robustness and can effectively predict stroke diseases.
An IoT‐Based Automatic Vehicle Accident Detection and Visual Situation Reporting System
Authors: Aslam Shehzad , Islam Shahid , Nigar Natasha , Ajagbe Sunday Adeola , Adigun Matthew O.
Published: May 2024

Road accidents are a major cause of injuries and deaths worldwide. Many accident victims lose their lives because of the late arrival of the emergency response team (ERT) at the accident site. Moreover, the ERT often lacks crucial visual information about the victims and the condition of the vehicles involved in the accident, leading to a less effective rescue operation. To address these challenges, a new Internet of Things (IoT)‐based system is proposed that uses on‐vehicle sensors to detect and report the accident to rescue operator without any human involvement. The sensor data are automatically transmitted to a remote server to create a visual representation of the accident vehicles (which existing systems lack), facilitating the situation‐based rescue operation. The system tackles any false reporting issue and also sends alerts to the victim’s family. A mobile application has also been developed for eyewitnesses to manually report the accident. The proposed system is evaluated in a simulated environment using a remote‐controlled car. The results show that the system is robust and effective, automatically generating visuals of accident vehicles to facilitate informed rescue operation. The system has the potential to aid the ERT in providing timely first aid and, thus, saving human lives.
Association between BMI Change, Transaminases, and Other Metabolic Parameters in Children with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Flores Lopez Alvaro G. , Quiros-Tejeira Ruben E. , Lyden Elizabeth , McGill Brooke , Dike Chinenye R.
Published: May 2024

Background. Weight loss and lifestyle interventions are the mainstay of treatment in pediatric NAFLD. There are gaps in the literature on the objective improvement in BMI to meaningfully impact NAFLD in children. Aim. To determine the decrease in BMI associated with a significant decline in ALT and other metabolic parameters. Methods. Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients with the diagnosis of NAFLD. Data were collected at the baseline and 6 and 12 months. A linear regression model was used to assess the percent change in BMI predictive of change in ALT and other metabolic parameters. Results. 281 charts were included. 71% of patients who had up to a 2.5% loss in BMI at 6 months had a decrease in ALT of up to 10 U/L compared to 43% patients who did not have a decrease in BMI up to 2.5% loss at the same time period (P=0.01). The linear regression model showed that 6-month and 12-month percent changes in BMI are predictive of 6-month and 12-month ALT changes (P=0.01 and 0.02), respectively. ALT normalization was achieved on 12% of patients with a ≥2.5% decrease in BMI at 6 months compared to 1% of patients that had no decrease of ≥2.5% decrease in BMI at 6 months (P=0.01). The mean BMI Z-score decline was 0.18 (P=0.001) in the group with a ≥2.5% decrease in BMI at 6 months. Conclusions. BMI loss of up to 2.5% and the mean BMI Z-score 0.18 are associated with a significant decrease in ALT of up to 10 U/L. BMI percent change at 6 months and 12 months is predictive of changes in ALT. These results should help guide providers in clinical practice set objective goals for the management of children with NAFLD resulting from obesity.
Effect of Sensor Faults on the Stresses Caused by Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Biazar Dariush
Published: May 2024

Rotor blades are the main part for generating electrical energy and the primary source of stresses in a wind turbine (WT). The stresses caused by the blades increase the load on the hub, tower, and foundation of the WTs. In this research, the asymmetry of the blade angle with each other has been investigated as one of the factors affecting the stress distribution using Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. The focus of this study is on the stresses caused by the asymmetry of the blades angle when there is the fault in the sensors. A deep understanding of the blade stress distribution due to sensor faults can improve control designs, increase WT operating time, and reduce energy generation costs when these faults occur.
Incremental Load Respiratory Muscle Training Improves Respiratory Muscle Strength and Pulmonary Function in Children with Bronchiectasis
Authors: Chen Xiaolong , Hu Shidong , Jia Xiaohui , Zeng Bingbing
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective. To explore the effect of respiratory muscle training on children with bronchiectasis. Methods. Participants underwent respiratory muscle training for 24 weeks. The main results were changes in respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function indices (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC, peak expiratory flow rate (PEF), forced expiratory flow 25–75% (FEF25–75%), and maximal midexpiratory flow 75/25 (MMEF75/25)) before, 12 weeks after, and 24 weeks after the intervention. The secondary outcomes were changes in the exercise load and work rate, exercise work, Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) scale, and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results. Compared with before the intervention, after 24 weeks of respiratory muscle training, the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) were significantly enhanced (P<0.05), while FVC, FEV1, and PEF were significantly increased (P<0.01). FEF25–75 and MMEF75/25 values showed significant improvement compared to those before training (P<0.05). The exercise loading, work, and exercise work rate of expiratory muscle training were significantly improved compared to those before intervention (P<0.05). The LCQ score increased significantly (P< 0.001), and the FSS score decreased significantly (P< 0.001). Conclusion. Incremental load respiratory muscle training effectively improved children’s lung function over the long term, improved the strength of their inspiratory and expiratory muscles, and improved their quality of life.
Physical Activity Decreases Inflammation and Delays the Development of Obesity-Associated Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Pita-Grisanti Valentina , Velez-Bonet Ericka , Chasser Kaylin , Hurst Zachary , Liette Alexus , Vulic Grace , Dubay Kelly , Lahooti Ali , Badi Niharika , Ueltschi Olivia , Gumpper-Fedus Kristyn , Hsueh Hsiang-Yin , Lahooti Ila , Chavez-Tomar Myrriah , Terhorst Samantha , Knoblaugh Sue E. , Cao Lei , Huang Wei , Coss Christopher C. , Mace Thomas A. , Choueiry Fouad , Hinton Alice , Culp Stacey , Mitchell Jennifer M. , Schmandt Rosemarie , Onstad Grinsfelder Michaela , Basen-Engquist Karen , Cruz-Monserrate Zobeida
Published: May 2024

Obesity is a risk factor for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a deadly disease with limited preventive strategies. Lifestyle interventions to decrease obesity represent a potential approach to prevent obesity-associated PDAC. In this study, we examined whether decreasing obesity through physical activity (PA) and/or dietary changes could decrease inflammation in humans and prevent obesity-associated PDAC in mice. Comparison of circulating inflammatory-associated cytokines in subjects (overweight and obese) before and after a PA intervention revealed PA lowered systemic inflammatory cytokines. Mice with pancreatic-specific inducible KrasG12D expression were exposed to PA and/or dietary interventions during and after obesity-associated cancer initiation. In mice with concurrent diet-induced obesity and KrasG12D expression, the PA intervention led to lower weight gain, suppressed systemic inflammation, delayed tumor progression, and decreased proinflammatory signals in the adipose tissue. However, these benefits were not as evident when obesity preceded pancreatic KrasG12D expression. Combining PA with diet-induced weight loss (DI-WL) delayed obesity-associated PDAC progression in the genetically engineered mouse model, but neither PA alone nor combined with DI-WL or chemotherapy prevented PDAC tumor growth in orthotopic PDAC models regardless of obesity status. PA led to the upregulation of Il15ra in adipose tissue. Adipose-specific overexpression of Il15 slowed PDAC growth but only in nonobese mice. Overall, our study suggests that PA alone or combined with DI-WL can reduce inflammation and delay obesity-associated PDAC development or progression. Lifestyle interventions that prevent or manage obesity or therapies that target weight loss–related molecular pathways could prevent progression of PDAC.

Significance: Physical activity reduces inflammation and induces changes to adipose-related signaling to suppress pancreatic cancer, supporting the potential of obesity management strategies to reduce the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

See related commentary by Sogunro and Muzumdar, p. 2935
Trichoscopy of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Affecting Black Scalp: A Literature Review
Authors: Souza Gessienne Clívia Alves e , Cortez de Almeida Rita Fernanda , Melo Daniel Fernandes
Published: May 2024

Background: Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a primary lymphocytic scarring alopecia characterized by progressive recession of the frontotemporal hairline, affecting mainly postmenopausal and, lately, premenopausal women of African descent. Considering the importance of trichoscopy on FFA diagnosis and the peculiarities found in patients with higher skin phototypes, this study aimed to review the FFA trichoscopy in the black scalp (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), a topic that remains sparsely described in the existing literature. Summary: In black patients, FFA may manifest singular features on presentation posing diagnostic clinical and trichoscopic challenges. This group has lower prevalence of the FFA compared to other alopecias. It may have an earlier age of onset and often exhibits more severe manifestations due to the coexistence of other types of alopecia and delay in diagnosis. The early signs of the disease in black patients may manifest in the eyebrows before scalp hair loss and lichen planus pigmentosus may be a herald sign. Key Messages: Our research analyzes FFA trichoscopy findings in black patients to help precise diagnosis and treatment. Raising awareness of the disease characteristics on trichoscopy contributes to improving hair care in this population.
Ciencia globalizada y ciencia invisibilizada
Authors: Vargas Esther Juliana
Published: May 2024

¿Cuáles son los efectos de la globalización sobre la forma en que se constituye y se performa la idea de “lo científico”?En este texto quisiéramos plantear esta pregunta a modo de sugerencia y como una invitación a poner en discusión los retos que se abren a la ciencia de América Latina,a propósito de la adopción e imperanciade las formas globalizadas de evaluar lo científico. Estos retos están dados no sólo en términos de, en efecto, “cumplir” con estos referentes globalizados y “nivelar” nuestros estándares de calidad con los estándares internacionales, sino también en términos de abrir la discusión y la crítica a dichos estándares de calidad, que entrañan epistemologías que no necesariamente responden a nuestra forma de hacer ciencia.Si bien estar inmerso en la –llamada por McLuhan-“aldea global” trae beneficios para el intercambio de la ciencia, toda vez que abre el espectro de diálogo académico internacional; esta inmersión puede traer como consecuencia la invisibilización de formas de producción del conocimiento que, siendo muy valiosas y con alta calidad, no siempre seajustan a los parámetros globales de “lo científico”.
A identidade fraturada no processo enunciativo de Grace Passô
Authors: Santos Wellington de Oliveira e Silva dos
Published: May 2024

The enunciative process of the playwright Grace Passô proposes an analysis of the necropolitics ingrained in the black-female-body of her protagonist of the play "Vaga carne". Through the construction and deconstruction of writing, it is possible to reflect on a black subjectivity in experience from the meanings sewn by the political-cultural-social-literary discourses that confront the ruling layer.
Tambores de Maracatu de Baque Virado: redes e afetações
Authors: Azeredo Marcel Costa , Mello Adilson Silva , Pimenta Carlos Alberto Máximo
Published: May 2024

Es una reflexión entre saberes y dinámicas culturales, a través de las interacciones que promueve el maracatu de baque virado, con énfasis en el constructor de tambor. Se justifica por la escasa producción académica que sitúa al constructor de tambor como foco principal del estudio, con el objetivo de revelar los elementos humanos y no humanos de este actor y su compleja red socio técnica. Se realizó un estudio de campo que incluyó observaciones de cómo el artefacto requiere que el constructor forme una red, entrevistas con los actores (el constructor y los compradores de los tambores elaborados por él) y registros visuales de los artefactos con el objetivo de dar significación al tambor. En un esfuerzo de síntesis, los elementos que componen la red tamborilera (afectaciones, mediaciones, agencias, controversias) fueron revelados durante los procesos de fabricación de artefactos, considerando la dimensión de la generación de rentas y sus imposiciones.
Cardiovascular Dynamics in HIV: The Influence of Adrenal Function and Nutritional Status
Authors: Niwaha Anxious J. , Byrd James Brian
Published: May 2024

This interdisciplinary review explores the intricate nexus between HIV infection, nutrition, adrenal gland function, and cardiovascular health, highlighting a critical aspect of HIV management often overlooked in current literature. With the advent of antiretroviral therapy, the life expectancy of people living with HIV has dramatically improved, transforming HIV into a manageable chronic condition. However, this success brings forth new challenges, notably an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases among people living with HIV. We examine the normal physiology of the adrenal gland, including its role in mineral metabolism, a crucial facet of nutrition. We discuss the evolution of knowledge tying adrenal pathology to cardiovascular disease. We explore the impact of HIV on adrenal gland findings from a gross pathology perspective, as well as the clinical impact of adrenal insufficiency in HIV. The review further elucidates the role of nutrition in this context, considering the double burden of undernutrition and obesity prevalent in regions heavily affected by HIV. By aggregating findings from longitudinal studies and recent clinical trials, the review presents compelling evidence of increased cardiovascular disease among people living with HIV compared with people without HIV. It highlights the critical role of the adrenal glands in regulating nutrient metabolism and its implications for cardiovascular health, drawing attention to the potential for dietary interventions and targeted therapies to mitigate these risks. This review urges a paradigm shift in the management of HIV, advocating for a holistic approach that incorporates nutritional assessment and interventions into routine HIV care to address the complex interplay between HIV, adrenal function, and cardiovascular health. Through this lens, we offer insights into novel therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing cardiovascular risk in people living with HIV, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life and longevity in this population.
HIV-Associated Hypertension: Risks, Mechanisms, and Knowledge Gaps
Authors: Prakash Prem , Swami Vetha Berwin Singh , Chakraborty Rajasree , Wenegieme Tara-Yesomi , Masenga Sepiso K. , Muthian Gladson , Balasubramaniam Muthukumar , Wanjalla Celestine N. , Hinton Antentor O. , Kirabo Annet , Williams Clintoria R. , Aileru Azeez , Dash Chandravanu
Published: May 2024

HIV type 1 (HIV-1) is the causative agent of AIDS. Since the start of the epidemic, HIV/AIDS has been responsible for ≈40 million deaths. Additionally, an estimated 39 million people are currently infected with the virus. HIV-1 primarily infects immune cells, such as CD
4+
(cluster of differentiation 4
+
) T lymphocytes (T cells), and as a consequence, the number of CD
4+
T cells progressively declines in people living with HIV. Within a span of ≈10 years, HIV-1 infection leads to the systemic failure of the immune system and progression to AIDS. Fortunately, potent antiviral therapy effectively controls HIV-1 infection and prevents AIDS-related deaths. The efficacy of the current antiviral therapy regimens has transformed the outcome of HIV/AIDS from a death sentence to a chronic disease with a prolonged lifespan of people living with HIV. However, antiviral therapy is not curative, is challenged by virus resistance, can be toxic, and, most importantly, requires lifelong adherence. Furthermore, the improved lifespan has resulted in an increased incidence of non-AIDS–related morbidities in people living with HIV including cardiovascular diseases, renal disease, liver disease, bone disease, cancer, and neurological conditions. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of the cardiovascular comorbidities associated with HIV-1 infection, with a particular focus on hypertension. We also discuss the potential mechanisms known to drive HIV-1–associated hypertension and the knowledge gaps in our understanding of this comorbid condition. Finally, we suggest several directions of future research to better understand the factors, pathways, and mechanisms underlying HIV-1–associated hypertension in the post-antiviral therapy era.
Connection Between HIV and Mitochondria in Cardiovascular Disease and Implications for Treatments
Authors: Hinton Antentor O. , N’jai Alhaji U. , Vue Zer , Wanjalla Celestine
Published: May 2024

HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy alter mitochondrial function, which can progressively lead to mitochondrial damage and accelerated aging. The interaction between persistent HIV reservoirs and mitochondria may provide insight into the relatively high rates of cardiovascular disease and mortality in persons living with HIV. In this review, we explore the intricate relationship between HIV and mitochondrial function, highlighting the potential for novel therapeutic strategies in the context of cardiovascular diseases. We reflect on mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial DNA, and mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein in the context of HIV. Furthermore, we summarize how toxicities related to early antiretroviral therapy and current highly active antiretroviral therapy can contribute to mitochondrial dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and poor clinical outcomes. There is a need to understand the mechanisms and develop new targeted therapies. We further consider current and potential future therapies for HIV and their interplay with mitochondria. We reflect on the next-generation antiretroviral therapies and HIV cure due to the direct and indirect effects of HIV persistence, associated comorbidities, coinfections, and the advancement of interdisciplinary research fields. This includes exploring novel and creative approaches to target mitochondria for therapeutic intervention.
Self-Organization and Phase Transitions in Driven Cellular Automata
Authors: Rainwater J. Hank
Published: May 2024

The Game of Life (GoL) cellular automaton is modified to inject order during execution of the state transition algorithm by making selected stable structures permanently active while interacting with normal active sites to create novel structures. A survey of the modified automaton’s phenomenology and an analysis of its dynamics are presented in the context of the physics of the self-organization of matter by viewing the GoL as an artificial chemistry. These new structures become seeds for additional phases of structure building, analogous to nature’s gravitational and thermodynamic churning of the geosphere that created material structures in phases, beginning the transition from geochemistry to prebiotic chemistry and laying foundational substrates for life-enabling organizational processes in an emerging biosphere. Evidence of selective self-assembly during phase transitions is reported where several GoL still life structures, configured as permanently active seeds evolving with random collections of active sites, resulted in geometrically identical structures as the GoL reached an equilibrium state of static density.
Inter-States Disputes Under the Inter-American Human Rights System
Authors: Contesse Jorge
Published: May 2024

Under the inter-American human rights system, inter-State disputes seem largely irrelevant. Such irrelevance contrasts with the European human rights system, where the amount of inter-State disputes is significant (and growing), and is similar to the African human rights regime, where there is a very low number of inter-State disputes. In more than four decades since the entry into force of the American Convention on Human Rights, there are only two inter-State disputes brought before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights—one of the two bodies that, along with the Inter-American Court, make up the regional human rights system. The virtual inexistence of inter-State complaints, however, does not mean an absence of human rights disputes among members of the Organization of American States (oas). In fact, States resort to other mechanisms to process their disputes. Therefore, to explore how inter-States disputes actually operate under inter-American human rights law, it is necessary to broaden the view and look beyond the specific mechanism of inter-State communications established in the American Convention. This article discusses the two inter-State communications that the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has so far examined, and analyses other mechanisms—typically, advisory opinions by the Inter-American Court—that serve as a substitute for inter-State communications. The article shows how oas States use advisory opinions as a covert inter-State dispute mechanism and argues that the Inter-American Court should articulate a clear set of admissibility standards to address this practice.
Contributions to the amphibians and reptiles of Myanmar: insights from the Leonardo Fea legacy housed at the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales of Madrid
Authors: SÁNCHEZ-VIALAS ALBERTO , COPETE-MOSQUERA LUIS A. , CALVO-REVUELTA MARTA
Published: May 2024

The Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN) holds a significant repository of historical specimens collected by Leonardo Fea in Myanmar from 1885 to 1889, which have remained overlooked for decades. In this work, we present a commented taxonomic catalogue of the MNCN amphibians and reptiles collected by L. Fea. Based on this material, we unveil the first documented record of Wijayarana melasma in Myanmar and identify a potential new species of Leptobrachium. Also, the collection contains several topotypes of six species: Limnonectes macrognathus, Orixalus carinensis, Chirixalus doriae, Xenophrys parva, Brachytarsophrys carinense, and Leiolepis ocellata. These findings emphasize the crucial role of scientific collections in revealing information that have gone unnoticed for more than a century, hinting at a potential underestimation of Myanmar's biodiversity.
Formation of Eastern Boundary Undercurrents via Mesoscale Eddy Rectification
Authors: Stewart Andrew L. , Wang Yan , Solodoch Aviv , Chen Ru , McWilliams James C.
Published: May 2024

Eastern boundary upwelling systems (EBUSs) host equatorward wind-driven near-surface currents overlying poleward subsurface undercurrents. Various previous theories for these undercurrents have emphasized the role of poleward alongshore pressure gradient forces (APFs). Energetic mesoscale variability may also serve to accelerate undercurrents via mesoscale stirring of the potential vorticity gradient imposed by the continental slope. However, it remains unclear whether this eddy rectification mechanism contributes substantially to driving poleward undercurrents in EBUS. This study isolates the influence of eddy rectification on undercurrents via a suite of idealized simulations forced either by alongshore winds, with or without an APF, or by randomly generated mesoscale eddies. It is found that the simulations develop undercurrents with strengths comparable to those found in nature in both wind-forced and randomly forced experiments. Analysis of the momentum budget reveals that the along-isobath undercurrent flow is accelerated by isopycnal advective eddy momentum fluxes and the APF and retarded by frictional drag. The undercurrent acceleration may manifest as eddy momentum fluxes or as topographic form stress depending on the coordinate system used to compute the momentum budget, which reconciles these findings with previous work that linked eddy acceleration of the undercurrent to topographic form stress. The leading-order momentum balance motivates a scaling for the strength of the undercurrent that explains most of the variance across the simulations. These findings indicate that eddy rectification is of comparable importance to the APF in driving poleward undercurrents in EBUSs and motivate further work to diagnose this effect in high-resolution models and observations and to parameterize it in coarse-resolution ocean/climate models.
The Aging Surgeon: Considerations for Navigating a Successful and Satisfying Career
Authors: Smith Brian R. , Phillips Edward H. , Freischlag Julie A. , Inaba Kenji , Stamos Michael
Published: May 2024

Our careers as surgeons are some of the busiest and perhaps most sought after in existence. We have all put in countless years of tenacious effort, at times blood, frequent sweat, and occasional tears, to have the privilege to care for others and correct their ailments. Many of us are like freight trains rolling down the tracks indefinitely. But all too often we finish our training and head down those tracks without considering what stops we should make along the way, which forks in the tracks we should consider taking, and perhaps most often, we do not consider how we are going to eventually stop the train. Most of us have been witness to colleagues who keep working beyond their prime, be it for lack of alternative opportunities, lack of hobbies to retire to, or for lack of insight into their own decline. From these observations was born this presidential panel. As you can see, it is a collection of past presidents of So Cal ACS, with the exception for Dr Freischlag (who we all know would have served as president at some point had she never relocated away from Southern California). Each of these speakers has unique experience from their own careers that they will share with us so we can take pause and consider their insights and wisdom for how to navigate a successful and satisfying career.
Small Hemothoraces Not Drained on Admission: Initial Volume Predicts Need for Intervention
Authors: Na HeeYun , Kim Esther J. , Muller Alison , Butts Christopher , Reilly Eugene , Geng Thomas , Romeo Michael , Ong Adrian
Published: May 2024

Background

Unlike large hemothoraces (HTX), small HTX after blunt trauma may be observed without drainage. We aimed to study if there were risk factors that would predict the need for intervention in initially observed small HTX.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with blunt traumatic HTX from 2016 to 2022 was performed. Patients with small HTX (pleural fluid volume <400 mL on admission chest computerized tomography [CT]) were included. Patients were considered as being “initially observed” if there was no intervention for the HTX within 48 hours after admission. Primary outcome was any HTX-related intervention (open, thoracoscopic or percutaneous procedures) occurring after 48 hours and up to 6 months after injury. Univariable and multivariable statistical analyses were employed. A P-value of <.05 was considered significant.

Results

Of 335 patients with HTX, 188 (59.6%) met inclusion criteria. Median (interquartile range) HTX volume was 90 (36-134) ml. One hundred and twenty-seven (68%) were initially observed. Of these, 31 (24%) had the primary outcome. These patients had a larger HTX volume (median, 129 vs 68 mL, P = .0001), and number of rib fractures (median, 7 vs 4, P = .0002) compared to those without the primary outcome. Chest-related readmission occurred in 8 (6%) with a median of 20 days from injury. Of these, 7 required an HTX-related intervention. Logistic regression analysis found that both the number of rib fractures and HTX volume independently predicted the primary outcome.

Conclusion

For small HTX initially observed, number of rib fractures and initial volume predicted delayed HTX-related intervention.
Anglicanism and Liturgy, a Network Approach to the International Anglican Liturgical Consultation
Authors: Duce David , Tovey Phillip
Published: May 2024

The Anglican Communion is founded on the idea of provincial autonomy including in terms of liturgy. While there has been much liturgical revision there is still an Anglican resemblance. One of the cohesive forces has been the International Anglican Liturgical Consultation, IALC, which has now been meeting for almost fifty years. This article looks at the operation of the IALC using network and visualization theory, a growing approach to Anglican Communion studies. What is the history of this network and its place in the communion? Who comes to the meetings and from which provinces? Has there been a discernible impact? These are some of the questions discussed along with the question of representation. The IALC appears to have been more influential than it might seem at first sight and there are discernible fingerprints in the liturgical texts of the communion.
Celebrating International Year of Millet 2023: Analysing Sustainable Food Security in India Since Independence to the Amrit Kaal from the Lens of Millets
Authors: Singh Pushpa
Published: May 2024

While the world is grappling with adversities caused by climate change, the agricultural sector has been the hardest hit, posing a new set of challenges for food security. As the developing world is still struggling with rampant poverty and malnutrition, an alternative framework that could promote climate-resilient and water-saving agriculture emerges as an exigency. In this context, climate-resilient crops like millets acquire the greatest significance as they are not only sustainable and low on climate-critical resources like water but also add to the diversity of the nutritional basket of farmers in rain-fed regions. In this light, the adoption of the India-sponsored resolution declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets by the United Nations General Assembly is extremely crucial and needs to be analysed with reference to its potentiality to ensure sustainable food security in India in sync with UN Sustainable Development Goals on Poverty and Food Security. Given the potential of millets, this article aims to analyse innovative and sustainable pathways to agriculture from Indian Independence to Amrit Kaal, in alignment with goals of productivity enhancement, energy transition and climate action of the Government of India. It examines the policies and programmes of the government implemented to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) during the Amrit Kaal.