bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the cross-education of strength attenuate the impact of detraining after a period of strength training? A quasi-randomized trial
Authors: Rowe Grant S. , Blazevich Anthony J. , Taylor Janet L. , Pulverenti Timothy , Haff G. Gregory
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Unilateral strength training may attenuate the decline in muscle strength and size in homologous, contralateral muscles. This study aimed to determine whether the cross-education of strength could specifically attenuate the effects of detraining immediately after a short (prehabilitation-type) period of strength training.

Methods

Twenty-six strength-trained participants were assigned to either four weeks of unilateral strength training of the stronger arm (UNI) or detraining (Detrain). Motor evoked potential (MEP) and cortical silent period (cSP) responses, muscle cross-sectional area (CSAFlexor; peripheral quantitative computed tomography) and maximal strength, rate of force development (RFD) and muscle activation (EMG) were examined in both elbow flexors before and after the intervention period.

Results

In UNI, one-repetition maximum (1-RM) strength improved in both the trained (∆ = 2.0 ± 0.9 kg) and non-trained (∆ = 0.8 ± 0.9 kg) arms despite cessation of training of the weaker arm, whereas 1-RM strength was unchanged in Detrain. Maximal voluntary isometric contraction, isokinetic peak torque, and RFD did not change in either group. No neural changes were detected in UNI, but cSP increased in Detrain (∆ = 0.010 ± 0.015 s). CSAFlexor increased in the trained arm (∆ = 51 ± 43 mm2) but decreased in the non-trained arm (∆ = -53 ± 50 mm2) in UNI. CSAFlexor decreased in both arms in Detrain and at a similar rate to the non-trained arm in UNI.

Conclusion

UNI attenuated the effects of detraining in the weaker arm as shown by the improvement in 1-RM strength. However, the cross-education of strength did not attenuate the decline in muscle size in the contralateral arm.
The radiomorphological appearance of the invasive margin in pancreatic cancer is associated with tumor budding
Authors: Mayer Philipp , Hausen Anne , Steinle Verena , Bergmann Frank , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Loos Martin , Roth Wilfried , Klauss Miriam , Gaida Matthias M
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Pancreatic cancer (PDAC) is characterized by infiltrative, spiculated tumor growth into the surrounding non-neoplastic tissue. Clinically, its diagnosis is often established by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). At the invasive margin, tumor buds can be detected by histology, an established marker associated with poor prognosis in different types of tumors.

Methods

We analyzed PDAC by determining the degree of tumor spiculation on T2-weighted MRI using a 3-tier grading system. The grade of spiculation was correlated with the density of tumor buds quantified in histological sections of the respective surgical specimen according to the guidelines of the International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference (n = 28 patients).

Results

64% of tumors revealed intermediate to high spiculation on MRI. In over 90% of cases, tumor buds were detected. We observed a significant positive rank correlation between the grade of radiological tumor spiculation and the histopathological number of tumor buds (rs = 0.745, p < 0.001). The number of tumor buds was not significantly associated with tumor stage, presence of lymph node metastases, or histopathological grading (p ≥ 0.352).

Conclusion

Our study identifies a readily available radiological marker for non-invasive estimation of tumor budding, as a correlate for infiltrative tumor growth. This finding could help to identify PDAC patients who might benefit from more extensive peripancreatic soft tissue resection during surgery or stratify patients for personalized therapy concepts.
Airfall volume of the 15 January 2022 eruption of Hunga volcano estimated from ocean color changes
Authors: Kelly Liam J. , Fauria Kristen E. , Manga Michael , Cronin Shane J. , Latu’ila Folauhola Helina , Paredes-Mariño Joali , Mittal Tushar , Bennartz Ralf
Published: May 2024

On 15 January 2022, Hunga volcano erupted, creating an extensive and high-reaching umbrella cloud over the open ocean, hindering traditional isopach mapping and fallout volume estimation. In MODIS satellite imagery, ocean surface water was discolored around Hunga following the eruption, which we attribute to ash fallout from the umbrella cloud. By relating intensity of ocean discoloration to fall deposit thicknesses in the Kingdom of Tonga, we develop a methodology for estimating airfall volume over the open ocean. Ash thickness measurements from 41 locations are used to fit a linear relationship between ash thickness and ocean reflectance. This produces a minimum airfall volume estimate of $${1.8}_{-0.4}^{+0.3}$$

1.8

-
0.4

+
0.3

km3. The whole eruption produced > 6.3 km3 of uncompacted pyroclastic material on the seafloor and a caldera volume change of 6 km3 DRE. Our fall estimates are consistent with the interpretation that most of the seafloor deposits were emplaced by gravity currents rather than fall deposits. Our proposed method does not account for the largest grain sizes, so is thus a minimum estimate. However, this new ocean-discoloration method provides an airfall volume estimate consistent with other independent measures of the plume and is thus effective for rapidly estimating fallout volumes in future volcanic eruptions over oceans.
Fatigue and sleep quality improvement through complete decongestive therapy in postmastectomy lymphedema: An investigative analysis
Authors: Kavak Songül Keskin , Kavak Engin Eren
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effects of complete decongestive therapy (CDT) on cancer-related fatigue, sleep quality, and lymphedema-specific quality of life using validated and reliable questionnaires in cancer patients being commendable.

Material and methods

This prospective study includes 94 patients who had postmastectomy lymphedema syndrome. The demographic characteristics of the patients were recorded. The participants’ stages of lymphedema (The International Society of Lymphology), Hirai Cancer Fatigue Scale (HCFS) score, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) Global score, lymphedema-specific quality of life questionnaire (LYMQOL-ARM) score, and Global health status were recorded before and after CDT.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 58.49 ± 10.96 years. Strong correlations were found between the severity of edema and global health status. There was a significant positive relationship between the HCFS score, PSQI Global score, LYMQOL-ARM score, and CDT. After decongestive physiotherapy, the majority of the lymphedema stages were downstaging (p < 0.05), respectively. There was also a trend toward improvement in general well-being (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbance can persist for years after surgery in women with breast cancer. This can negatively affect the patient physically, socially and cognitively. Our study, which is the first study to investigate the HCFS score in postmastectomy patients and the relationship between PSQI Global score and CDT. The findings identify the risk factors that affect these outcomes in women with lymphedema and can provide valuable insights for targeted interventions and improved patient care.
Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in children and young people with psychiatric disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Gallop Lucy , Westwood Samuel J. , Hemmings Amelia , Lewis Yael , Campbell Iain C. , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: May 2024

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has demonstrated benefits in adults with psychiatric disorders, but its clinical utility in children and young people (CYP) is unclear. This PRISMA systematic review used published and ongoing studies to examine the effects of rTMS on disorder-specific symptoms, mood and neurocognition in CYP with psychiatric disorders. We searched Medline via PubMed, Embase, PsychINFO via OVID, and Clinicaltrials.gov up to July 2023. Eligible studies involved multiple-session (i.e., treatment) rTMS in CYP (≤ 25 years-old) with psychiatric disorders. Two independent raters assessed the eligibility of studies and extracted data using a custom-built form. Out of 78 eligible studies (participant N = 1389), the majority (k = 54; 69%) reported an improvement in at least one outcome measure of disorder-specific core symptoms. Some studies (k = 21) examined rTMS effects on mood or neurocognition,: findings were largely positive. Overall, rTMS was well-tolerated with minimal side-effects. Of 17 ongoing or recently completed studies, many are sham-controlled RCTs with better blinding techniques and a larger estimated participant enrolment. Findings provide encouraging evidence for rTMS-related improvements in disorder-specific symptoms in CYP with different psychiatric disorders. However, in terms of both mood (for conditions other than depression) and neurocognitive outcomes, evidence is limited. Importantly, rTMS is well-tolerated and safe. Ongoing studies appear to be of improved methodological quality; however, future studies should broaden outcome measures to more comprehensively assess the effects of rTMS and develop guidance on dosage (i.e., treatment regimens).
Studying the viability and growth kinetics of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis V583 following femtosecond laser irradiation (420–465 nm)
Authors: El-Gendy Ahmed O. , Ezzat Sarah , Samad Fatma Abdel , Dabbous Ola Ali , Dahm Jonathan , Hamblin Michael R. , Mohamed Tarek
Published: May 2024

Enterococcus faecalis is among the most resistant bacteria found in infected root canals. The demand for cutting-edge disinfection methods has rekindled research on photoinactivation with visible light. This study investigated the bactericidal activity of femtosecond laser irradiation against vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis V583 (VRE). The effect of parameters such as wavelength and energy density on the viability and growth kinetics of VRE was studied to design an optimized laser-based antimicrobial photoinactivation approach without any prior addition of exogenous photosensitizers. The most effective wavelengths were 430 nm and 435 nm at a fluence of 1000 J/cm2, causing a nearly 2-log reduction (98.6% and 98.3% inhibition, respectively) in viable bacterial counts. The colony-forming units and growth rate of the laser-treated cultures were progressively decreased as energy density or light dose increased at 445 nm but reached a limit at 1250 J/cm2. At a higher fluence of 2000 J/cm2, the efficacy was reduced due to a photobleaching phenomenon. Our results highlight the importance of optimizing laser exposure parameters, such as wavelength and fluence, in bacterial photoinactivation experiments. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report an optimized wavelength for the inactivation of VRE using visible femtosecond laser light.
Urban colonization of invasive species on islands: Mus musculus and Rattus rattus genetics of establishment on Cozumel Island
Authors: Borja-Martínez Gabriela , Vázquez-Domínguez Ella
Published: May 2024

Humans and wildlife experience complex interactions in urban ecosystems, favoring the presence of commensal species, among which invasive species are particularly successful. Rodents are the main vertebrate group introduced to oceanic islands, where the invasion process and dispersal patterns strongly influence their evolutionary and genetic patterns. We evaluated the house mouse Mus musculus and the black rat Rattus rattus on Cozumel Island, Mexico. We assessed genetic diversity and structure, connectivity, gene flow, relatedness and bottleneck signals based on microsatellite loci. Our genetic findings suggest that introduction of individuals of different geographic sources to the island promotes high allelic diversity and the effective establishment of migrants. We identified a clear genetic structure and low connectivity for the two species, tightly linked with anthropogenic and urban features. Notably, we found that the genetic structure of the house mouse sampled within the city of San Miguel Cozumel is associated with the historical human population growth pulses accompanying the urbanization of the city. At the fine-scale genetic level, the main urban drivers of connectivity of the house mouse were both the impervious land surfaces, i.e. the urban landscape, and the informal commerce across the city (a proxy of resources availability). Chances of a secondary invasion to natural environments have been relatively low, which is crucial for the endemic taxa of the island. Nonetheless, improving urban planning to regulate future expansions of San Miguel Cozumel is of the outmost importance to prevent these invasive species to disperse further.
Genetic and phenotypic differentiation in functional traits of Iris pseudacorus L. in native and introduced Mediterranean climate ranges
Authors: Gallego-Tévar B. , Grewell B. J. , Gaskin J. F. , Castillo J. M.
Published: May 2024

Intraspecific variation in functional traits between native and introduced plant species may underlie resilience and invasiveness of introduced species. We explored if observed phenotypic variation of Iris pseudacorus L. between populations in the native vs. introduced ranges results from genetic differentiation and/or phenotypic plasticity. Seeds were collected from populations along estuarine stress gradients within populations in both Guadalquivir Estuary (Andalusia, Spain) and San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary (California, USA). Genetic analysis was performed on leaf tissue from plants in each seed donor population. Germinants (n = 48: 6 plants × 4 populations × 2 ranges) were grown for 12 months in a common garden experiment (CGE). We then evaluated 25 traits including growth, biomass allocation, morphological and biochemical responses. Geographic range explained relative intraspecific trait variation segregating native from introduced phenotypes. Native plants had lower specific leaf area (− 34%) and carbohydrate concentrations in rhizomes (− 63%) than introduced plants, providing evidence of genetic differentiation. Higher genetic diversity and 27% higher phenotypic variation (CGE) of native vs. introduced plants indicated longer-term adaptive processes in the native range. Genetic distance of introduced populations (field) increased along with their phenotypic distance (CGE), suggesting rapid genetic differentiation. Phenotypic plasticity also explained some observed inter-range differences under field conditions not expressed by plants in the CGE. Management of the introduced I. pseudacorus populations should be established urgently since they represent novel genotypes with key functional traits that can support invasiveness through increased competitive ability and physiological stress tolerances to sea level rise.
Social Workers as Allies? Gender Confirming Practices and Institutional Limitations in Youth Residential Homes
Authors: Lindroth Malin , Carlström Charlotta , Andersson Catrine , Husén Elin
Published: May 2024

Previous research shows that LGBTQ+ youth are over-represented in out-of-home care and that especially transgender and non-binary youth face challenges during their placement. These challenges stem from, among other factors, the lack of knowledge and competence of professionals regarding the unique needs of transgender and non-binary youth. In Sweden, there are policies that aim to protect transgender and non-binary youth from discrimination and to promote their sexual and reproductive health and rights, and an increasing number of residential homes claim to have LGBTQ competence when competing for placements. However, it is unclear how this affects the everyday experiences of trans and non-binary youth at residential homes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the practices and challenges of clinical social workers at residential care homes when working with gender identity and sexual health issues among young transgender and non-binary youth. Eight semi-structured interviews focusing on professionals’ knowledge and experiences were conducted and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes emerged: i) Knowledge being a personal matter; ii) Heteronormativity and binarity creating consequences; iii) Handling discrimination and harassments; and iv) Creating a trustful alliance. The results show that knowledge is a personal matter, and social work professionals seek the knowledge they need instead of receiving it in education or training. The contextual heteronormativity and binarity creating consequences at the residential care home pose challenges for social workers and they have to find creative ways to support transgender and non-binary youth and address the harassments and discrimination that these youth face. Moreover, the social workers share their strategies regarding how they are creating a trustful alliance. Overall, they identify significant challenges to developing clinical social work that is affirming of transgender and non-binary youth.
Collaborative Partnerships During Fieldwork Experiences to Promote Evidence-Based Practices
Authors: Kim Gospel Y. , Tuck Kathleen N. , Kurth Jennifer A.
Published: May 2024

In early childhood education, implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs) is crucial for enhancing children's developmental outcomes. While educator preparation program coursework often covers the content knowledge of EBPs, the application of this knowledge in fieldwork settings is limited. This results in infrequent implementation of EBPs in early childhood settings, highlighting the need for better strategies. One effective way to promote educators' implementation of EBPs is integrating the behavioral skills training (BST) model during fieldwork experiences. Incorporating BST into early childhood educator preparation programs can foster strong collaborative partnerships among team members, facilitating the identification and intentional use of EBPs to support individual children's learning and development. We describe this new collaborative partnership model in fieldwork experiences to demonstrate how preservice educators, in-service educators, and teacher educators play pivotal roles in influencing each other's performance. This collaborative effort aims to promote the implementation of EBPs that lead to the children's improved developmental outcomes.
Machine learning experiment management tools: a mixed-methods empirical study
Authors: Idowu Samuel , Osman Osman , Strüber Daniel , Berger Thorsten
Published: May 2024

Machine Learning (ML) experiment management tools support ML practitioners and software engineers when building intelligent software systems. By managing large numbers of ML experiments comprising many different ML assets, they not only facilitate engineering ML models and ML-enabled systems, but also managing their evolution—for instance, tracing system behavior to concrete experiments when the model performance drifts. However, while ML experiment management tools have become increasingly popular, little is known about their effectiveness in practice, as well as their actual benefits and challenges. We present a mixed-methods empirical study of experiment management tools and the support they provide to users. First, our survey of 81 ML practitioners sought to determine the benefits and challenges of ML experiment management and of the existing tool landscape. Second, a controlled experiment with 15 student developers investigated the effectiveness of ML experiment management tools. We learned that 70% of our survey respondents perform ML experiments using specialized tools, while out of those who do not use such tools, 52% are unaware of experiment management tools or of their benefits. The controlled experiment showed that experiment management tools offer valuable support to users to systematically track and retrieve ML assets. Using ML experiment management tools reduced error rates and increased completion rates. By presenting a user’s perspective on experiment management tools, and the first controlled experiment in this area, we hope that our results foster the adoption of these tools in practice, as well as they direct tool builders and researchers to improve the tool landscape overall.
Optimizing the detection of hereditary predisposition in women with epithelial ovarian cancer: nationwide implementation of the Tumor-First workflow
Authors: Witjes Vera M. , Hermkens Dorien M. A. , Swillens Julie E. M. , Smolders Yvonne H. C. M. , Mourits Marian J. E. , Ausems Margreet G. E. M. , de Hullu Joanne A. , Ligtenberg Marjolijn J. L. , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline
Published: May 2024

Genetic testing in patients with ovarian carcinoma (OC) is crucial, as around 10–15% of these women have a genetic predisposition to OC. Although guidelines have recommended universal germline testing for all patients with OC for a decade, implementation has proved challenging, thus resulting in low germline-testing rates (around 30–50%). Many new initiatives to improve genetic-testing rates have emerged, but most have been carried out at the local level, leading to differences in workflows within and between countries. We present an example of a nationwide implementation project that has successfully led to a uniform, high-quality genetic-testing workflow for women with OC. Nationwide multidisciplinary meetings generated consensus on the preferred workflow for OC genetic testing: the “Tumor-First” workflow. This workflow means starting by testing the tumor DNA for the presence of pathogenic variants in OC-risk genes, thus providing a prescreen to germline testing while yielding information on the effectiveness of treatment with PARP inhibitors. This new workflow efficiently stratifies genetic counseling and germline testing and reduces healthcare costs. Although challenging, the nationwide implementation of this workflow was successful, resulting in tumor-DNA testing rates exceeding 80%. In this article, we present our structured implementation approach, illustrate our implementation strategies—which were tailored to identified factors important to implementation—and share the lessons learned from the Tumor-First implementation project. This knowledge could facilitate the future implementation of workflows aimed at optimizing the recognition of hereditary cancers.
Influence of storage method on the content of photosynthetic pigments of the aquatic moss Fontinalis antipyretica
Authors: Villares Rubén , Real Carlos , Vázquez María Dolores
Published: May 2024

Aquatic bryophytes are frequently used as bioindicators of water quality in rivers. Poor water quality increases physiological stress in moss, and stress levels can be estimated by measuring the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments and by calculating pigmentary indices. However, studies collecting many samples in a short time may need to store them until analysis. In the meantime, the pigments may suffer some degradation. Given the lack of studies on this problem for aquatic bryophytes, this one investigates the effect of three storage methods (refrigerated at 6 °C, frozen at − 20 °C and dried at room temperature) on the concentrations of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, pheophytin a and the following ratios: chlorophyll a/chlorophyll b, D430/D410, D665/D665a, D430/D665 and D480/D665 (where Dx is the absorbance at x nm) in the aquatic moss Fontinalis antipyretica. The results showed that refrigeration was the most suitable method, freezing might be suitable for some parameters, and drying was inadequate for this purpose. We recommend that all studies on photosynthetic pigments detail the time elapsed from collection to sample analysis, as well as the storage method used.
The hide-and-seek effect of pulsed-flows in a potamodromous cyprinid fish
Authors: Leite Renan , Costa Maria João , Mameri Daniel , Afonso Fernando , Pinheiro António , Santos José Maria , Boavida Isabel
Published: May 2024

The artificial pulsed-flows impact associated with hydropower production on the downstream biological and physical processes has been extensively addressed, showing that it may cause fish drift while changing fish habitat selection toward lower water velocity patches, acting as refuge areas. We aimed to evaluate the attraction efficiency of two flow-refuges differing in their approaching angles, for Luciobarbus bocagei at an indoor experimental flume. We tested two flow-refuge insertion angles (45° and 70°), and two flow events (base 7 L/s and pulsed-flow 60 L/s) for each. To analyze flow-refuge efficiency, we quantified fish individual and group patterns, flow-refuge use, and permanence time, while measuring glucose and lactate responses. The results showed that the individual frequency of use during simulated pulsed-flow was higher, especially on the 45° flow-refuge. The simulated pulsed-flow condition did not disrupt group behavior for both approaching angles. Glucose and lactate analysis did not trigger physiological responses in the tested trials. The 45° flow-refuge was used more often than the 70°. The narrowing of the channel caused by the 45° flow-refuge, and the consequent higher flow homogeneity increased the attractiveness of the flow-refuge. Therefore, the flow-refuge insertion angle should be a decisive criterion in the construction and installation of flow-refuges for cyprinids, and be considered a potential indirect mitigation measure.
The pregnancy outcomes among women receiving individualized algorithm dosing with follitropin delta: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Doroftei Bogdan , Ilie Ovidiu-Dumitru , Dabuleanu Ana-Maria , Armeanu Theodora , Maftei Radu
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To investigate whether the ovarian stimulation with follitropin delta in an individualized algorithm-based manner is inferior to recombinant human-follicle stimulating’s follitropin alfa or follitropin beta conventional dosing regarding a series of established primary endpoints.

Methods

We conducted a registered systematic review (CRD42024512792) on PubMed-MEDLINE, Web of Science™, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus. Our search was designed to cover all relevant literature, particularly randomized controlled trials. We critically and comparatively analyzed the outcomes for each primary endpoint based on the intervention, reflected by the positive βhCG test, clinical pregnancy, vital pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, live birth, live birth at 4 weeks, and multiple pregnancies.

Results

Six randomized controlled trials were included in the quality assessment as priority manuscripts, revealing an 83.3% low risk of bias. Follitropin delta led to non-significant differences in each parameter of interest from positive βhCG test (691; 53.44% vs. 602; 46.55%), ongoing pregnancies (603; 53.79% vs. 518; 46.20%), clinical and vital pregnancies (1,073; 52.80% vs. 959; 47.19%), to live birth and at 4 weeks (595; 54.14% vs. 504; 45.85%) with only 2 losses, and even multiple pregnancies (8; 66.66% vs. 4; 33.33%). However, follitropin delta was well-tolerated among hypo- and hyper-responders without significant risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and/or preventive interventions in contrast with follitropin alfa or follitropin beta.

Conclusion

The personalized individualized-based algorithm dosing with follitropin delta is non-inferior to conventional follitropin alfa or follitropin beta. It is as effective in promoting a similar response in women without significant comparable adverse effects.
Synthesis of polythiophene with zigzag morphology on pencil graphite electrode and investigation of energy storage properties in supercapacitors
Authors: Yazar Sibel , Arvas Melih Besir , Gürkan Koray
Published: May 2024

Herein, polythiophene-based supercapacitor electrode materials were successfully synthesized by the electropolymerization method. Thymol blue, bromothymol blue, and bromophenol blue were added to the polythiophene polymerization medium as dopants, and the energy storage properties of the thiophene-based electrode material were investigated. Polythiophene/bromothymol blue (PTh/BTB) gave the polythiophene an interesting zigzag morphology, which is unique in the literature (specific surface area of PTh/BTB and PTh: 32.629 m2 g−1 and 13.812 m2 g−1). The electrode performance of PTh/BTB shows a maximum specific capacitance of 443.5 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1. The symmetrical supercapacitor achieved a maximum energy density of 9.7 Wh kg−1 and a maximum power density of 5000 W kg−1. The capacitance retention value exhibited a steady state of 79.2% up to 10,000 cycles.

Graphical abstract
Mechanical, wear and thermal properties of natural fiber-reinforced epoxy composite: cotton, sisal, coir and wool fibers
Authors: Tasgin Yahya , Demircan Gokhan , Kandemir Seckin , Acikgoz Abuzer
Published: May 2024

Natural fiber-reinforced epoxy composites (NFRCs) have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential as environmentally friendly and sustainable materials. These composites combine natural fibers, derived from plants, with epoxy resins to create a material with enhanced properties. The objective of this study is to investigate the mechanical, wear and thermal properties of NFRCs incorporating cotton, sisal, coir and wool fibers. The vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) technique was employed to produce composite plates, followed by conducting tests on tensile, wear and thermal properties. The cotton composite showcased the highest tensile strength, reaching 52.81 MPa, while the coir composite exhibited the lowest, measuring 15.34 MPa. Sisal composite exhibited a moderate wear rate (1.423 mm3/Nm) and a lower coefficient of friction (0.233), implying smoother relative motion. Coir composite presented the highest wear rate (4.615 mm3/Nm), attributed to its coarse fiber nature. Thermal conductivity is highest at cotton composite (1.017 W/mK) and is lowest at coir composite (0.187 W/mK). Additionally, the highest specific heat was observed in the coir composite (26.313 MJ/m3K). Cotton demonstrated potential for efficient heat transfer, while wool outperformed in insulation. Sisal displayed versatility for structural applications. Coir emerged as an effective insulator with energy-saving applications.
A Meta-analysis of Attachment at Work
Authors: Warnock Kate N. , Ju Christina S. , Katz Ian M.
Published: May 2024

This meta-analysis aimed to confirm and clarify the relationships between attachment style and various workplace correlates, including job performance, burnout, personality, and job satisfaction (K = 109 independent samples, N = 32,278 participants). Results provided the strongest support for the relationships between attachment style and the Big Five personality traits, burnout, and job performance. Anxious attachment was also related to a host of other correlates, including job stress, turnover intentions, job satisfaction, and work engagement. Additionally, dominance analysis was used and found that attachment style had incremental validity beyond the Big Five in the prediction of job performance, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and leader-member exchange. Finally, we examined meta-analytic path models in which attachment style impacted job performance, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, turnover intentions, and leader-member exchange through trust in supervisor. This indirect effect was supported for all correlates and for both anxious and avoidant attachment. Overall, the results supported the use of attachment styles as an important correlate with organizational variables. Limitations, implications, and areas for future research are discussed.
A surrogate-assisted a priori multiobjective evolutionary algorithm for constrained multiobjective optimization problems
Authors: Aghaei pour Pouya , Hakanen Jussi , Miettinen Kaisa
Published: May 2024

We consider multiobjective optimization problems with at least one computationally expensive constraint function and propose a novel surrogate-assisted evolutionary algorithm that can incorporate preference information given a priori. We employ Kriging models to approximate expensive objective and constraint functions, enabling us to introduce a new selection strategy that emphasizes the generation of feasible solutions throughout the optimization process. In our innovative model management, we perform expensive function evaluations to identify feasible solutions that best reflect the decision maker’s preferences provided before the process. To assess the performance of our proposed algorithm, we utilize two distinct parameterless performance indicators and compare them against existing algorithms from the literature using various real-world engineering and benchmark problems. Furthermore, we assemble new algorithms to analyze the effects of the selection strategy and the model management on the performance of the proposed algorithm. The results show that in most cases, our algorithm has a better performance than the assembled algorithms, especially when there is a restricted budget for expensive function evaluations.
Too Young to Gamble: Long-term Risks from Underage Gambling
Authors: Pérez Levi
Published: May 2024

The increasing availability of gambling opportunities worldwide has the potential to impact youth gambling behavior and the prevalence of gambling-related harm. This paper studies whether starting gambling at an early age (i.e., below the minimum legal gambling age) increases an individual’s likelihood of suffering some kind of gambling-related harm in the future. Data taken from the Study on the Prevalence, Behavior and Characteristics of Gamblers in Spain provide information on respondents’ gambling starting age and assess gambling risk based on criteria established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Estimates from an ordered probit model suggest that starting to gamble while under the minimum legal age is associated with a higher likelihood of problem gambling.
Lorentzian metric spaces and their Gromov–Hausdorff convergence
Authors: Minguzzi E. , Suhr S.
Published: May 2024

We present an abstract approach to Lorentzian Gromov–Hausdorff distance and convergence, and an alternative approach to Lorentzian length spaces that does not use auxiliary “positive signature” metrics or other unobserved fields. We begin by defining a notion of (abstract) bounded Lorentzian metric space which is sufficiently general to comprise compact causally convex subsets of globally hyperbolic spacetimes and causets. We define the Gromov–Hausdorff distance and show that two bounded Lorentzian metric spaces at zero GH distance are indeed both isometric and homeomorphic. Then we show how to define from the Lorentzian distance, beside topology, the causal relation and the causal curves for these spaces, obtaining useful limit curve theorems. Next, we define Lorentzian (length) prelength spaces via suitable (maximal) chronal connectedness properties. These definitions are proved to be stable under GH limits. Furthermore, we define bounds on sectional curvature for our Lorentzian length spaces and prove that they are also stable under GH limits. We conclude with a (pre)compactness theorem.
Renin angiotensin system-induced muscle wasting: putative mechanisms and implications for clinicians
Authors: Afsar Baris , Afsar Rengin Elsurer , Caliskan Yasar , Lentine Krista L. , Edwards John C.
Published: May 2024

Renin angiotensin system (RAS) alters various mechanisms related to muscle wasting. The RAS system consists of classical and non-classical pathways, which mostly function differently. Classical RAS pathway, operates through angiotensin II (AngII) and angiotensin type 1 receptors, is associated with muscle wasting and sarcopenia. On the other hand, the non-classical RAS pathway, which operates through angiotensin 1–7 and Mas receptor, is protective against sarcopenia. The classical RAS pathway might induce muscle wasting by variety of mechanisms. AngII reduces body weight, via reduction in food intake, possibly by decreasing hypothalamic expression of orexin and neuropeptide Y, insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), signaling, AngII increases skeletal muscle proteolysis by forkhead box transcription factors (FOXO), caspase activation and muscle RING-finger protein-1 transcription. Furthermore, AngII infusion in skeletal muscle reduces phospho-Bad (Ser136) expression and induces apoptosis through increased cytochrome c release and DNA fragmentation. Additionally, Renin angiotensin system activation through AT1R and AngII stimulates tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 which induces muscle wasting, Last but not least classical RAS pathway, induce oxidative stress, disturb mitochondrial energy metabolism, and muscle satellite cells which all lead to muscle wasting and decrease muscle regeneration. On the contrary, the non-classical RAS pathway functions oppositely to mitigate these mechanisms and protects against muscle wasting. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of RAS-induced muscle wasting and putative implications for clinical practice. We also emphasize the areas of uncertainties and suggest potential research areas.

Graphical abstract

Classical and non-classical renin angiotensin systems (RAS) play opposing roles in muscle wasting. Classical RAS system operates through Angiotensin (Ang)I/ACE/AngII)/Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor (AT1R) and induces muscle wasting by mechanisms including inducing anorexia, ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS), apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, albuminuria, fibrosis (increasing transforming growth factor beta, connective tissue growth factor) and decrease insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling, vitamin D and satellite cell function. Non-classical RAS system operates through Angiotensin1/ACE2/Ang (1–7)/Mas Receptor and have opposite actions to classical RAS system and protects against muscle wasting.
Metrically conditioned /a/-syncope in Modern Hebrew compounds
Authors: Faust Noam , Torres-Tamarit Francesc
Published: May 2024

In Modern Hebrew, some, but not all, nominals exhibit obligatory /a/-syncope in open syllables if they are antepretonic in a simple (nominal) word. The same vowels optionally syncopate in any pretonic syllable in non-final members of compounds. Here we first show that syncope in compounds fills a gap in the typology of weak positions. We then propose a formal analysis in Gradient Harmonic Grammar (Smolensky and Goldrick 2016), which distinguishes between a weak /a/ and a strong /a/. Only the former undergoes syncope in both configurations; and only in non-compounds is it protected by a positional faithfulness constraint referencing the head foot of the prosodic word. Optionality in compounds is shown to follow from Base-Derivative faithfulness.
Effect of urbanization on surface runoff and performance of green roofs and permeable pavement for mitigating urban floods
Authors: Öztürk Şevki , Yılmaz Kutay , Dinçer A. Ersin , Kalpakcı Volkan
Published: May 2024

Floods are increasingly becoming a significant concern due to climate change, global warming, and excessive urbanization. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has projected that global warming will continue to contribute to more frequent and severe floods and hydrological extremes. In response to these challenges, nature-based solutions (NBSs) have gained recognition as effective approaches to mitigate the adverse impacts of floods by focusing on ecosystem conservation, restoration, and sustainable utilization of natural resources. This study examines a flood that occurred in the Erkilet District of Kayseri, Türkiye on September 22, 2022, as a result of intense rainfall. It involves a thorough on-site investigation to assess the hydraulic, hydrologic, and geotechnical attributes of the study area. The findings from the field study indicate that the primary cause of the flood is attributed to excessive urbanization. To further analyze the impact of urbanization, a hydraulic model is developed considering both the physical and topographical conditions of the study area for both the year 2006 and 2022. The simulation results reveal that the extent of inundation area and water depth has increased significantly due to the excessive urbanization that occurred within a 16-year period. Additionally, the effectiveness of green roofs and permeable pavements as NBSs to mitigate urban flooding is explored. The implementation of green roofs and permeable pavements shows promising results, reducing the adverse effects of urban floods by 3% to 8%, depending on their specific locations and configurations. However, the results suggest that NBSs alone cannot fully prevent floods so they should complement gray infrastructure. The novelty of the study lies in its ability to demonstrate the impact of urbanization and the effectiveness of nature-based solutions in mitigating flood extent based.
Better life stories make better lives: a reply to Berg
Authors: Kauppinen Antti
Published: May 2024

Is it good for us if the different parts of our lives are connected to each other like the parts of a good story? Some philosophers have thought so, while others have firmly rejected it. In this paper, I focus on the state-of-the-art anti-narrativist arguments Amy Berg has recently presented in this journal. I argue that while she makes a good case that the best kind of lives for us do not revolve around a single project or theme, the best kind of narrativist views actually encourage us to pursue a variety of different projects, as long as they are mutually supportive. I claim that when interpreted in the most plausible way, prudentially good-making narrative coherence arises precisely out of this kind of unity in diversity. Well-roundedness and narrative coherence are thus not inherently in tension, but are both good-making holistic features of our lives.
Limitations on the maximal level of entanglement of two singlet–triplet qubits in GaAs quantum dots
Authors: Bragar Igor , Cywiński Łukasz
Published: May 2024

We analyze in detail a procedure of entangling of two singlet–triplet (S–$$T_{0}$$

T
0

) qubits operated in a regime when energy associated with the magnetic field gradient, $$\Delta B_{z}$$

Δ

B
z

, is an order of magnitude smaller than the exchange energy, J, between singlet and triplet states (Shulman et al. in Science 336:202, 2012). We have studied theoretically a single S–$$T_{0}$$

T
0

qubit in free induction decay and spin echo experiments. We have obtained analytical expressions for the time dependence of components of its Bloch vector for quasistatic fluctuations of $$\Delta B_{z}$$

Δ

B
z

and quasistatic or dynamical $$1/f^{\beta }$$

1
/

f
β

-type fluctuations of J. We have then considered the impact of fluctuations of these parameters on the efficiency of the entangling procedure which uses an Ising-type coupling between two S–$$T_{0}$$

T
0

qubits. In particular, we have obtained an analytical expression for evolution of two qubits affected by $$1/f^{\beta }$$

1
/

f
β

-type fluctuations of J. This expression indicates the maximal level of entanglement that can be generated by performing the entangling procedure. Our results deliver also an evidence that in the above-mentioned experiment S–$$T_{0}$$

T
0

qubits were affected by uncorrelated $$1/f^{\beta }$$

1
/

f
β

charge noises.
Environmental sustainability and tourism growth: convergence or compensation?
Authors: Torres-Díaz Viviana , del Río-Rama María de la Cruz , Álvarez-García José , Simonetti Biagio
Published: May 2024

In addition to the socio-economic advantages, tourism has been proven to be one of the most important sectors with adverse environmental effects. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between tourism and environmental sustainability by using a panel data from 32 countries in Latin America and the European Union for the period 2000–2019. Several techniques of cointegration and convergence of clusters are used to meet this objective. The empirical results show that on average, tourism growth has a negative impact on the environment in the two groups of countries, which could be attributed to the heterogeneity of the level of regional tourism development. On the other hand, the convergence of tourism growth and environmental sustainability is evident at different adjustment speeds in the different sample panels. It generates empirical evidence on whether the current expansion of the tourism sector in Latin American and European countries entails significant environmental externalities by using the ecological footprint variable as an indicator of environmental sustainability and foreign tourist arrivals as an economic indicator.
Gendering Narcissism: Different Roots and Different Routes to Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Green Ava , Hart Claire M. , Day Nicholas , MacLean Rory , Charles Kathy
Published: May 2024

Research has only recently begun to explore narcissism in women using gender-inclusive assessments that move beyond traditional male-centric frameworks associated with grandiosity. Such work indicates gender differences in the onset and expression of narcissism, and risk factors of partner violence perpetration. The pathways to offending in narcissism may therefore be gendered but have yet to be tested. In this study, we investigated the mediating role of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism in the association between childhood exposure to maltreatment and later partner violence perpetration in adulthood, and the moderating role of gender in these associations. Participants (N = 328) completed scales of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, perceived parenting styles, and physical/sexual and psychological abuse perpetration. Results indicated gender differences in grandiose (men higher) and vulnerable (women higher) narcissism. Retrospective reports of having mothers who were caring was negatively related to grandiose narcissism for men and vulnerable narcissism for women. Father overprotectiveness was positively related to grandiose narcissism in men. Self-reported vulnerable narcissism was related to greater perpetration of physical/sexual and psychological IPV in women, whereas grandiose narcissism was associated with greater perpetration of psychological IPV in men. For women, but not men, mother care was associated with reduced psychological IPV via lower vulnerable narcissism levels. These findings inform gendered risk markers of narcissism and perpetration of violence for intervention efforts.
Spectral and Imaging Observations of a C2.3 White-Light Flare from the Advanced Space-Based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) and the Chinese H$\alpha $ Solar Explorer (CHASE)
Authors: Li Qiao , Li Ying , Su Yang , Song Dechao , Li Hui , Feng Li , Huang Yu , Li Youping , Li Jingwei , Zhao Jie , Lu Lei , Ying Beili , Xue Jianchao , Zhang Ping , Tian Jun , Liu Xiaofeng , Li Gen , Jing Zhichen , Li Shuting , Shi Guanglu , Tian Zhengyuan , Chen Wei , Su Yingna , Zhang Qingmin , Li Dong , Ge Yunyi , Shan Jiahui , Zhou Yue , Lei Shijun , Gan Weiqun
Published: May 2024

Solar white-light flares are characterized by an enhancement in the optical continuum, which are usually large flares (X- and M-class flares). Here, we report a small C2.3 white-light flare (SOL2022-12-20T04:10) observed by the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory and the Chinese H$\alpha $
α
Solar Explorer (CHASE). This flare exhibits an increase of ≈ 6.4% in the photospheric Fe i line at 6569.2 Å and ≈ 3.2% in the nearby continuum. The continuum at 3600 Å also shows an enhancement of ≈ 4.7%. The white-light bright kernels are mainly located at the flare ribbons and co-spatial with nonthermal hard X-ray sources, which implies that the enhanced white-light emissions are related to nonthermal electron-beam heating. At the bright kernels, the Fe i line displays an absorption profile that has a good Gaussian shape, with a redshift up to ≈ 1.7 km s−1, while the H$\alpha $
α
line shows an emission profile having a central reversal. The H$\alpha $
α
line profile also shows a red or blue asymmetry caused by plasma flows with a velocity of several to tens of km s−1. It is interesting to find that the H$\alpha $
α
asymmetry is opposite at the conjugate footpoints. It is also found that the CHASE continuum increase seems to be related to the change in the photospheric magnetic field. Our study provides comprehensive characteristics of a small white-light flare that help understand the energy release process of white-light flares.