bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of liver standardized uptake value in F18-FDG PET/CT scanning: impact of different malignancies, blood glucose level, body weight normalization, and imaging systems
Authors: Abd-Elkader Mohamed S. , Elmaghraby Sherif M. , Abdel-Mohsen Mohamed A. , Khalil Magdy M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aim of this work was to investigate homogeneity and stability of liver SUV in terms of different malignancies considering different body normalization schemes and blood glucose concentrations as well as PET/CT imaging systems.

Methods

The study included 207 patients with four different types of cancers namely breast, lymphoma, lung, and bone-metastasis. Data acquisition was performed with GE Discovery IQ, Biograph mCT, uMI 550, and Ingenuity TF64 after a single intravenous injection of 194 ± 67.5 MBq of 18F-FDG.

Results

In body weight normalization, SUVmax and SUVmean in bone-mets as well as SUVmean in lung patients were not statistically different among scanners especially for data corrected for glucose levels (p = 0.062, 0.121, and 0.150, respectively). In SUVlbm derived from lung patients, there was no significant differences in Philips in comparison to GE and Siemens (both, p > 0.05) for data corrected and not corrected for glucose levels. In SUVbsa, the only non-significant difference revealed among scanners was in the measurements of SUVmean obtained from lung and bone-mets (p = 0.107 and 0.114) both corrected for glucose levels. In SUVbmi, SUVmean of lung and bone-mets as well as SUVmax of bone-mets showed a non-significant differences among the four different scanning systems (p = 0.303, 0.091, and 0.222, respectively) for data corrected for glucose levels.

Conclusion

Liver glucose correction needs further investigations in individual tumors but could be potentially affected by whether measurements are made on SUVmean versus SUVmax, body weight normalization, as well as the imaging system. As such, selection of normalization to body weight method should be carefully selected before clinical adoption and clinically adopted and body surface area would provide the highest correlation. As such, normalization of body weight should be carefully made before clinical adoption. SUVmean proves to be useful and stable metric when liver is corrected for blood glucose levels.
Cardiac Fatigue in Male Athletes with Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Impairments After a Very Long-Distance Triathlon
Authors: Hédon Christophe , Gouzi Fares , Padovani Caroline , Schuster Iris , Maufrais Claire , Cade Stéphane , Cransac Frédéric , Bui Gaspard , Morcillo Samuel , Ayoub Bronia , Thireau Jérôme , Izem Omar , Reboul Cyril , Walther Guillaume , Hayot Maurice , Nottin Stéphane , Cazorla Olivier
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Prolonged strenuous exercise can transiently decrease cardiac function. Other studies have identified three major exercise-induced pulmonary changes: bronchoconstriction, dynamic hyperinflation and pulmonary oedema with reduced alveolar–capillary membrane diffusing capacity. This study investigated whether athletes with one of these pulmonary dysfunctions following a very long-distance triathlon exhibit similar cardiac alterations as those without dysfunctions.

Methods

Sixty trained male triathletes (age 39 ± 9 years) underwent baseline and post-race assessments, including echocardiography (with standard, 2D-strain and myocardial work assessments), spirometry and double-diffusion technique to evaluate alveolar–capillary membrane diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DMCO). Cardiac function in athletes with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (> 10% decrease FEV1), dynamic hyperinflation (> 10% decrease inspiratory capacity) or impaired diffusion capacity (> 20% decrease DMCO/alveolar volume) were compared with those without these dysfunctions.

Results

The race lasted 14 h 20 min ± 1 h 26 min. Both systolic and diastolic cardiac functions declined post-race. Post-race, 18% of athletes had bronchoconstriction, 58% dynamic hyperinflation and 40% impaired diffusing capacity. Right and left ventricular standard and 2D-strain parameters were similar before the race in all subgroups and changed similarly post-race, except E/E′, which decreased in the bronchoconstriction subgroup and increased in those with diffusion impairment. Global constructive work decreased by ~ 19% post-race (2302 ± 226 versus 1869 ± 328 mmHg%, P < 0.001), more pronounced in athletes with diffusion impairment compared with others (− 26 ± 13 versus − 15 ± 9%, P = 0.001) and positively correlated with DMCO/alveolar volume reduction.

Conclusion

After a very long-distance triathlon, bronchoconstriction and hyperinflation were not associated with significant cardiac changes, whereas impaired alveolar–capillary membrane diffusing capacity was associated with a more significant decline in myocardial function. These findings highlight the complex relationship between pulmonary gas exchange abnormalities and cardiac fatigue following prolonged strenuous exercise.
Expectation analysis for bounding solutions of the 0–1 knapsack problem
Authors: Morales Fernando A. , Martínez Jairo A.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, an entirely novel discrete probabilistic model is presented to generate 0–1 Knapsack Problem instances. We analyze the expected behavior of the greedy algorithm, the eligible-first algorithm and the linear relaxation algorithm for these instances; all used to bound the solution of the 0–1 Knapsack Problem (0–1 KP) and/or its approximation. The probabilistic setting is given and the main random variables are identified. The expected performance for each of the aforementioned algorithms is analytically established in closed forms in an unprecedented way.
On the feasibility of a predictive model of mechanical properties of AM Inconel 718 thin wallets produced by DED-LB process monitored with thermal methods
Authors: D’Accardi E. , Chiappini F. , Giannasi A. , Guerrini M. , Maggiani G. , Palumbo D. , Galietti U.
Published: October 2024

Nickel-based superalloys are widely used in applications requiring resistance to high temperatures and high strain rates. Various additive manufacturing (AM) processes, such as Laser Metal Deposition (LMD), a Directed Energy Deposition (DED) process, can be used to produce these components. The quality of the components depends on the process parameters, so it is crucial to investigate the influence of each parameter and their combinations through extensive experimental campaigns. In this scenario, it would be very important to predict the mechanical properties of the produced components through the online monitoring of the process parameters using non-destructive techniques, such as thermography. The aim of this work was to explore the feasibility to predict the mechanical properties of Inconel 718 thin wallets around 10 mm produced by DED-LB, based on the extraction of suitable thermal features directly during the production. An experimental campaign analysed the effect of different process parameters (laser power, scan speed, powder flow rate, and energy density) on the mechanical properties achieved. All sample production was monitored with an infrared uncooled camera integrated with the laser head moving at the same scan speed. After the process, hardness measurements and tensile tests in both growth directions were carried out for each sample to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of the "as-built" coupons and the influence of selected process parameters. Macrographic analyses of the material structure were performed to determine the morphology of the passes and the degree of overlap between different passes and layers. Various thermal features and statistical models were considered to demonstrate the possibility of establishing a predictive model. The obtained results demonstrated the correlation between the hardness and the apparent temperature assuming a confidence level of 95%, and the possibility of predicting in this sense the final macrostructure and the mechanical behaviour of the printed material considering an empirical model with the R2 coefficient around 0.8.
Thiophanate-methyl and its major metabolite carbendazim weaken rhizobacteria-mediated defense responses in cucumbers against Fusarium wilt
Authors: Cui Kai , Xia Xiaoming , Wang Youwei , Zhang Yueli , Zhang Ying , Cao Junli , Xu Jun , Dong Fengshou , Liu Xingang , Pan Xinglu , Zheng Yongquan , Wu Xiaohu
Published: October 2024

The effect of fungicides on the plant-rhizosphere microbiome is a subject of ongoing debate, but whether any alteration in the rhizosphere microbiome could affect plant health is an issue that has not been thoroughly investigated. To address this deficiency, we analyzed the rhizosphere microbiome of wilt disease—resistant and disease-susceptible cucumber cultivars to determine whether (and which) plant-associated microorganisms have a role in disease resistance. We further assessed whether the fungicides thiophanate-methyl and carbendazim affect the rhizosphere microbiome, which may contribute to the plant’s immune response. Based on results acquired with both radicle-inoculation and soil-inoculation methods, cultivars Longyuanxiuchun (LYXC) and Shuyan2 (SY2) were identified as being disease resistant, whereas Zhongnong6 (ZN6) and Zhongnong38 (ZN38) were susceptible. The microbiome structure differed substantially between the resistant and susceptible plants, with LYXC and SY2 each having a significantly greater Shannon index than Zhongnong38. These results revealed that the disease-resistant cucumber cultivars recruited more beneficial bacteria, i.e., Bacillus, in their rhizosphere soil; as such, Bacillus was identified as a keystone genus in the microbial co-occurrence network. Thus, the presence of Bacillus may help cucumbers defend against fungal pathogens within the rhizosphere. Bacillus subtilis strain LD15, which was isolated from LYXC rhizosphere soil, could suppress pathogen growth, in vitro, and reduce disease severity in pot assays. Moreover, evidence also confirmed the accumulation of LD1 in the rhizosphere soil of resistant cucumber cultivars. For LYXC, application of thiophanate-methyl or carbendazim altered the microbiome structure, decreased bacterial diversity, and reduced the abundance of Bacillus species. Finally, pot assays verified that fungicide application decreased the proportion of LD15 in rhizosphere soil. From a microbial perspective, thiophanate-methyl and carbendazim may weaken the rhizobacteria-mediated defense response of cucumbers against cucumber Fusarium wilt disease. Our findings reveal a role for the rhizosphere microbiome in protecting plants from pathogens and constitute a reference for assessing the ecotoxicological risk of pesticides to non-target soil microorganisms.
Wirbelsäule und Haltung: Eisners WiPiHi
Authors: Eisner Wilhelm
Published: October 2024

Eisners Wirbelsäulen-Position und Hilfe-Methode, kurz WPH-Methode oder besser WiPiHi-Methode – umfasst verschiedene Testungen zur Diagnosestellung sowie Übungen mit dem Ziel, Fehlhaltungen in eine gute Haltung zurückzuführen, sprich in eine schmerzfreie oder zumindest schmerzreduzierte Haltung inklusive Prophylaxe von Wirbelsäulenschmerzen bzw. von Schmerzen des Haltungs- und Bewegungssystems. Eine zentrale Rolle kommt dabei dem kontinuierlichen Training der Haltemuskulatur zu, um die häufige muskuläre Dysbalance zwischen Halte- und Bewegungsmuskulatur zu reduzieren oder ganz aufzuheben.
Concrete crack classification based on fourier image enhancement and convolutional neural network
Authors: Sun Xiaoli , Yang Jun , Huang Wei , Teng Shuai
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the application of Fourier image enhancement combined with Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for detecting cracks in concrete structures. Fourier enhancement is used to preprocess crack images, improving their clarity and reducing noise, which in turn enhances the performance of the CNN in accurately classifying cracks. The results demonstrate that this combination improves the classification accuracy, with the enhanced images achieving a higher accuracy compared to non-enhanced images. Additionally, the study examines the effects of this preprocessing on CNN training time. However, accuracy varies depending on the dataset used, with one dataset reaching a maximum accuracy of 95% after enhancement. These findings highlight the potential of using frequency-domain image enhancement techniques in conjunction with deep learning models for structural health monitoring.
Research Ethics, Fieldwork, and African Studies
Authors: Day Christopher
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been a noticeable uptick in efforts to address the ethical, methodological, and security challenges of conducting field research. In fact, an entire scholarly community has emerged from different pockets of area and conflict studies to develop and share a body of literature and foster interactive forums to advance this important area of study.1 Much of this work builds on the influential accounts of individual researchers (Wood 2006), which has developed into more systematic categories for the myriad issues of fieldwork (Sriram et al. 2009), as well as frameworks to understand researcher-related, subject-related, and result-related problems (Baele et al. 2018). Some have noted that the challenges associated with ethics, security, and methods are “amplified in conflict zones” (Cramer, Hammond, and Pottier 2011). Others have observed the African context in particular may require its own approach (Thomson, Ansoms, and Murison 2013), prompting the journal African Affairs to dedicate space to a series of research notes that tackle fieldwork in particular (Cheeseman, Death, and Whitfield 2017).
The Spanish translation, adaptation, and validation of a Community-Engaged Research survey and a pragmatic short version: Encuesta Comunitaria and FUERTES
Authors: Rodriguez Espinosa Patricia , Peña Juan M. , Devia Carlos , Boursaw Blake , Avila Magdalena , Rudametkin Diana , Aguilar-Gaxiola Sergio , Alegria Margarita , Soto de Laurido Lourdes E. , Acosta Pérez Edna , Wallerstein Nina
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Community-Engaged Research (CEnR) and Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) require validated measures and metrics for evaluating research partnerships and outcomes. There is a need to adapt and translate existing measures for practical use with diverse and non-English-speaking communities. This paper describes the Spanish translation and adaptation of Engage for Equity’s Community Engagement Survey (E2CES), a nationally validated and empirically-supported CEnR evaluation tool, into the full-length “Encuesta Comunitaria,” and a pragmatic shorter version “Fortaleciendo y Uniendo EsfueRzos Transdisciplinarios para Equidad de Salud” (FUERTES).

Methods:

Community and academic partners from the mainland US, Puerto Rico, and Nicaragua participated in translating and adapting E2CES, preserving content validity, psychometric properties, and importance to stakeholders of items, scales, and CBPR constructs (contexts, partnership processes, intervention and research actions, and outcomes). Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and convergent validity was assessed via a correlation matrix among scales.

Results:

Encuesta Comunitariarespondents (N= 57) self-identified as primarily Latinos/as/x (97%), female (74%), and academics (61%). Cronbach’s alpha values ranged from 0.72 to 0.88 for items in the context domain to 0.90–0.92 for items in the intervention/research domain. Correlations were found as expected among subscales, with the strongest relationships found for subscales within the same CBPR domain. Results informed the creation of FUERTES.

Conclusions:

Encuenta Comunitariaand FUERTES offer CEnR/CBPR practitioners two validated instruments for assessing their research partnering practices, and outcomes. Moreover, FUERTES meets the need for shorter pragmatic tools. These measures can further strengthen CEnR/CBPR involving Latino/a/x communities within the US, Latin America, and globally.
The Princely Burials of the Central Balkans in Context
Authors: Donev Damjan
Published: October 2024

Despite a consensus that the Late Hallstatt ‘princely’ burials heralded the emergence of the earliest complex societies in the central Balkans, there is room for nuance. In this article, the ‘princely’ burial horizon is examined in light of the opposition between group-oriented and individualizing societies, while accepting that burials are as much an ideological statement as a reflection of social structure. On this theoretical basis, the author presents a study of two groups of ‘princely’ burials in North Macedonia and Bosnia in relation to contemporary and later burials, and with reference to settlement size in the Late Hallstatt and Classical–Hellenistic period. His analysis reveals that the inequality in burial assemblages of the Late Hallstatt ‘princely’ burial horizon decreases in the mortuary record of the fifth–fourth century bc, whereas the settlement size in the Classical–Early Hellenistic suggests emerging differentiation.
Direct measurements of firn-density evolution from 2016 to 2022 at Wolverine Glacier, Alaska
Authors: Stevens C. Max , Sass Louis , Florentine Caitlyn , McNeil Christopher , Baker Emily , Bollen Katherine
Published: October 2024

Knowledge of snow and firn-density change is needed to use elevation-change measurements to estimate glacier mass change. Additionally, firn-density evolution on glaciers is closely connected to meltwater percolation, refreezing and runoff, which are key processes for glacier mass balance and hydrology. Since 2016, the U.S. Geological Survey Benchmark Glacier Project has recovered firn cores from a site on Wolverine Glacier in Alaska's Kenai Mountains. We use annual horizons in repeat cores to track firn densification and meltwater retention over seasonal and interannual timescales, and we use density measurements to quantify how the firn air content (FAC) changes through time. The results suggest the firn is densifying due primarily to compaction rather than refreezing. Liquid-water retention in the firn is transient, likely due to gravity-fed drainage and irreducible-water-content decreases that accompany decreasing porosity. We show that the uncertainty (±60 kg m−3) in the commonly used volume-to-mass conversion factor of 850 kg m−3 is an underestimation when glacier-wide FAC variability exceeds 12% of the glacier-averaged height change. Our results demonstrate how direct measurements of firn properties on mountain glaciers can be used to better quantify the uncertainty in geodetic volume-to-mass conversions.
(When) are lobbying expenditures a good proxy for lobbying activity?
Authors: Thieme Sebastian
Published: October 2024

Lobbying expenditures are widely used as a proxy variable for measuring lobbying activity. However, the validity of this approach has rarely been examined and existing justifications do not account for heterogeneity in expenditure formats across types of lobbyists. I address the question using unique lobbying disclosure data from Wisconsin, where lobbying organizations report both expenditures on lobbying-related activities and lobbyists’ hours worked. Strong overall correlations between changes in expenditures and hours worked within organization–lobbyist dyads indicate that lobbying expenditures can serve as a reasonable proxy. However, caution is warranted due to substantial heterogeneity, with contract lobbyist relationships exhibiting weaker correlations than in-house relationships. I conclude by providing suggestions to improve empirical analyses that rely on lobbying expenditures.
Overview of anti-inflammatory diets and their promising effects on non-communicable diseases
Authors: Yu Xiaoping , Pu Haomou , Voss Margaret
Published: October 2024

An anti-inflammatory diet is characterised by incorporating foods with potential anti-inflammatory properties, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, spices, herbs and plant-based protein. Concurrently, pro-inflammatory red and processed meat, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats are limited. This article explores the effects of an anti-inflammatory diet on non-communicable diseases (NCD), concentrating on the underlying mechanisms that connect systemic chronic inflammation, dietary choices and disease outcomes. Chronic inflammation is a pivotal contributor to the initiation and progression of NCD. This review provides an overview of the intricate pathways through which chronic inflammation influences the pathogenesis of conditions including obesity, type II diabetes mellitus, CVD, autoinflammatory diseases, cancer and cognitive disorders. Through a comprehensive synthesis of existing research, we aim to identify some bioactive compounds present in foods deemed anti-inflammatory, explore their capacity to modulate inflammatory pathways and, consequently, to prevent or manage NCD. The findings demonstrated herein contribute to an understanding of the interplay between nutrition, inflammation and chronic diseases, paving a way for future dietary recommendations and research regarding preventive or therapeutic strategies.
Broadcasting Law and Gospel: Paul Tillich's Wartime Ministry to Nazi Germany
Authors: Skiles William Stewart
Published: October 2024

During World War II, the German theologian Paul Tillich, then a professor at Union Theological Seminary, partnered with the United States’ organization Voice of America to deliver over 100 religious addresses in the German language into his homeland. In these broadcasts, Tillich utilized the Lutheran categories of Law and Gospel to identify and discuss the sins of the Nazis (and Hitler in particular) and to remind the German population that there was still hope in redemption. Remarkably, well before the war's end, Tillich argued for German collective guilt and the need for the atonement and expiation of the German people. He continually warned them of impending judgment and inescapable punishment – both human and divine – as the Allies advanced on the battlefield in a race toward Berlin. Yet Tillich often tempered this focus on judgment with an emphasis on the Gospel, the certain hope Germans have in God's salvation. This prism of Law and Gospel pervades the religious addresses. I will place these broadcasts in the context of the war, the wartime work of Voice in America, and what we know of other religious addresses delivered over the airwaves to Nazi Germany, to reveal how Tillich preached resistance to Nazi Germany.
Labour-saving sowing tools for direct dry seeding of rice in Madagascar
Authors: Andriatsiorimanana Aina , Mujawamariya Gaudiose , Tefy Irina Andrianina , Harison Nomenjanahary Fifaliana , Saito Kazuki , Senthilkumar Kalimuthu
Published: October 2024

Manual rainfed rice sowing is laborious and time-consuming, leading to delayed crop establishment due to labour shortage. To increase production and productivity, we proposed introducing single-row rotary seeders (for dibbling seeds) and fertiseeders (for simultaneous dibbling seeds and fertilizer) for smallholders. We evaluated ‘CFFAMMA seeder’ (already developed seeder by CFFAMMA), ‘New seeder’ (a newly designed seeder), and a fertiseeder in terms of sowing time, crop establishment, and yield in Madagascar. We also obtained farmers’ feedback on the machines’ effectiveness, desirability, their willingness to use, and to pay for it (farmer participatory approach). Finally, we evaluated the profitability of using these machines under rainfed conditions. On-farm experiments across four locations in the central highlands of Madagascar revealed up to 82% time savings using seeders and fertiseeder over two seasons compared with manual methods. The CFFAMMA seeder outperformed the other two, with similar numbers of missing hills, yield, and benefit–cost (B:C) ratios to manual sowing. Despite farmers’ desire to adopt seeders (96%), high cost of equipment acquisition remains a significant obstacle: farmers’ willingness to pay per unit of the equipment (US$8–11); actual price ($68–81). Addressing this financial burden is crucial for wider adoption. Though the seeders and fertiseeder achieved >80% time reduction for sowing and comparable yields to manual methods, fine-tuning of the tools for technical efficiency is also required for wider adoption.
Commons land management in Southern, post-unification Italy: New evidence from a micro analysis on Salerno province
Authors: Zanibelli Giacomo
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to observe the ability of Southern Italian municipalities to respond to and redefine the management of common lands following the national privatisation and partition policies promoted by the State during the second half of the nineteenth century. The hypothesis tested is whether, through the analysis of new archival sources such as management rules, it is possible to identify good practices of management of common lands, along with the presence of resilience on the part of local communities during a period defined as one of uncontrollable ‘decline’ for these resources. Three Apennine areas (Campania Region) were identified as the observation sample. The analysis revealed that for these specific cases, it is imprecise to speak of decline and a lack of propensity to develop good management practices, but rather of institutions that are attentive to the protection and preservation of their commons through specific rules.
Embedding theorems for random graphs with specified degrees
Authors: Gao Pu , Ohapkin Yuval
Published: October 2024

Given an
$n\times n$
symmetric matrix
$W\in [0,1]^{[n]\times [n]}$
, let
${\mathcal G}(n,W)$
be the random graph obtained by independently including each edge
$jk\in \binom{[n]}{2}$
with probability
$W_{jk}=W_{kj}$
. Given a degree sequence
$\textbf{d}=(d_1,\ldots, d_n)$
, let
${\mathcal G}(n,\textbf{d})$
denote a uniformly random graph with degree sequence
$\textbf{d}$
. We couple
${\mathcal G}(n,W)$
and
${\mathcal G}(n,\textbf{d})$
together so that asymptotically almost surely
${\mathcal G}(n,W)$
is a subgraph of
${\mathcal G}(n,\textbf{d})$
, where
$W$
is some function of
$\textbf{d}$
. Let
$\Delta (\textbf{d})$
denote the maximum degree in
$\textbf{d}$
. Our coupling result is optimal when
$\Delta (\textbf{d})^2\ll \|\textbf{d}\|_1$
, that is,
$W_{ij}$
is asymptotic to
${\mathbb P}(ij\in{\mathcal G}(n,\textbf{d}))$
for every
$i,j\in [n]$
. We also have coupling results for
$\textbf{d}$
that are not constrained by the condition
$\Delta (\textbf{d})^2\ll \|\textbf{d}\|_1$
. For such
$\textbf{d}$
our coupling result is still close to optimal, in the sense that
$W_{ij}$
is asymptotic to
${\mathbb P}(ij\in{\mathcal G}(n,\textbf{d}))$
for most pairs
$ij\in \binom{[n]}{2}$
.
Relationship between subjective cognitive functioning and fluid and crystallized cognitive abilities in bipolar disorder
Authors: Torres Ivan J. , Mackala Sylvia , Ahn Sharon , Michalak Erin E. , Chakrabarty Trisha , Lam Raymond W. , Keramatian Kamyar , Yatham Lakshmi N.
Published: October 2024

Objective:

People with bipolar disorder (BD) often show inaccurate subjective ratings of their objective cognitive function. However, it is unclear what information individuals use to formulate their subjective ratings. This study evaluated whether people with BD are likely using information about their crystallized cognitive abilities (which involve an accumulated store of verbal knowledge and skills and are typically preserved in BD) or their fluid cognitive abilities (which involve the capacity for new learning and information processing in novel situations and are typically impaired in BD) to formulate their subjective cognitive ratings.

Method:

Eighty participants diagnosed with BD and 55 control volunteers were administered cognitive tests assessing crystallized and fluid cognitive abilities. Subjective cognitive functioning was assessed with the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ), daily functioning was rated using the Multidimensional Scale of Independent Functioning (MSIF) and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF), and quality of life was assessed with the Quality of Life in Bipolar Disorder scale (QoL.BD).

Results:

The BD group exhibited considerably elevated subjective cognitive complaints relative to controls. Among participants with BD, CFQ scores were associated with fluid cognitive abilities including measures of memory and executive function, but not to crystallized abilities. After controlling for objective cognition and depression, higher cognitive complaints predicted poorer psychosocial outcomes.

Conclusions:

Cognitive self-reports in BD may represent a metacognitive difficulty whereby cognitive self-appraisals are distorted by a person’s focus on their cognitive weaknesses rather than strengths. Moreover, negative cognitive self-assessments are associated with poorer daily functioning and diminished quality of life.
Medium Earth Orbit Secular Resonances and Navigation Satellites
Authors: Legnaro Edoardo
Published: October 2024

Inclination-only dependent lunisolar resonances shape the dynamics of MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) objects over secular time scales (i.e. several decades). Their main effect is to increase an object’s eccentricity, possibly up to a value where the orbit’s perigee meets the Earth’s atmosphere and friction will determine the object’s re-entry. Thus, understanding this mechanism allows the design of low-cost end-of-life disposal strategies which exploit the resonant dynamics. In this proceeding, we will summarize our results in developing an analytic theory for lunisolar resonances and the characterization of diffusion properties along them. On this topic, the techniques proposed are of interest in most problems of secular resonances encountered in Celestial Mechanics.
Derivation and Properties of the Angular Momentum Relative Amended Potential
Authors: Scheeres Daniel J.
Published: October 2024

The paper concerns the determination of the Angular Momentum Relative Amended Potential (AMR potential) in the framework of the Full n-Body problem and some of its basic properties are discussed. The AMR potential is derived using two different approaches : first using a Routh reduction of the system relative to rotation about the total angular momentum, second as a variation of the Sundman Inequality, using the Cauchy inequality.
Secular dynamics of a coplanar, non-resonant planetary system, consisting of a star and two planets
Authors: Sidorenko Vladislav
Published: October 2024

We consider an exoplanetary system consisting of a star and two planets. The masses of the planets are significantly less than the mass of the star. The evolution of the orbital motion of exoplanets is studied within the framework of a double averaged unrestricted three-body problem. The main attention is paid to coplanar configurations, when the star and planets move in a certain plane that preserves a constant position. The possibility of reversing the orbital motion of the inner planet is noted.
Investigation of the dynamical evolution of planetary systems with isotropically varying masses
Authors: Minglibayev M. Zh. , Prokopenya A. N. , Kosherbayeva A. B.
Published: October 2024

In this work, the secular evolution of exoplanetary systems is investigated, when the variability of the masses of celestial bodies is the leading factor of dynamical evolution. The masses of the parent star and the planets change due to the particles leaving the bodies and falling on them. At the same time, bodies masses are assumed to change isotropically at different rates. The law of mass change is considered to be known and given function of time. The relative motions of the planets are investigated by the methods of the canonical perturbation theory in the absence of resonances. It is assumed that the orbits of the planets do not intersect. Evolutionary equations in analogues of Poincaré variables (Λi, λi, ξi, ηi, pi, qi) are obtained and used to study the K2-3 exoplanetary system. All analytical and numerical calculations are performed with the aid of the Wolfram Mathematica.
Towards a complete picture of the evolution of planetary systems around evolved stars
Authors: Esseldeurs Mats , Mathis Stéphane , Decin Leen
Published: October 2024

Solar-like stars evolve through the Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) phase. This phase is characterized by increased radii, high luminosities, and significant mass loss. In order to understand the survival of companions during this phase, and explain the presence of planets orbiting white dwarfs, it is essential to examine the orbital evolution of these systems. Several physical mechanisms come into play for AGB stars, including stellar mass loss and tidal interactions between the star and its companion. Assessing mass-loss rates and accretion to the companion requires complex radiation-hydro-chemical simulations. Furthermore, comprehending the full history of tidal dissipation in low-mass stars during their late evolutionary stages, which strongly depends on their internal structure, requires dedicated analytical and numerical studies.
Positive Weathering Feedback Compensates Carbonates at Shallow Ocean Depths
Authors: Kaustubh Hakim
Published: October 2024

Continental silicate weathering and seafloor carbonate precipitation are key steps in the carbonate-silicate cycle to draw down CO2. Contrary to the classic understanding of negative feedback, silicate weathering can exhibit positive feedback at high temperatures. Taking into account this positive feedback, the compensation depth (CCD) in exoplanet oceans becomes shallower, implying a potential instability in the carbonate-silicate cycle at high temperatures.
3D-printed polarization-independent low-cost flexible frequency selective surface based dual-band microwave absorber
Authors: Chaitanya Gaurav , Peshwe Paritosh , Ghosh Saptarshi , Kothari Ashwin
Published: October 2024

A 3D-printed polarization-independent low-cost lightweight and flexible frequency selective surface based dual-band microwave absorber is presented in this paper. Two concentric square loops fabricated at different heights using 3D printing technology are responsible for exhibiting dual-band responses at 3.32 GHz (S-band) and 5.46 GHz (C-band) with more than 97% absorptivities. The corresponding full widths at half maximum bandwidths are observed as 230 MHz (3.21–3.44 GHz) and 450 MHz (5.27–5.72 GHz). The proposed topology is polarization-insensitive owing to the four-fold symmetry. The absorption phenomenon is explained with the analysis of current distributions at the surface and impedance curves at the frequencies of resonance. Further, the performance has been evaluated for both planar and curved surfaces with different angles of curvature, and the good agreement between the measured and simulated responses confirms the flexible behavior of the proposed structure.
A modified dumbbell-shaped highly efficient broadband multifunctional polarizer for X and Ku band applications
Authors: Gupta Ashish , Singh Raghvenda Kumar , Sinha Akshat , Pathak Swarnim , Sodhi Preet Singh
Published: October 2024

A novel metasurface offering polarization conversion characteristic in five bands is studied and developed in this paper. To provide the anisotropic feature to the structure, a diagonally placed tapered rod is combined with two semicircular stubs. Due to the controlling ability to convert horizontal to vertical polarization and vice versa, and linear to circular polarization (CP), it serves as a multifunctional polarization converter. Simulation results suggest that the proposed polarizer functions as cross polarizer over 4.74−5.12 and 9.12−13.48 GHz. Additionally, it exhibits a distinct type of rotational sense across 4.24−4.68, 5.24−8.64, and 13.72–15.14 GHz in its linear to CP conversion behavior. The axial ratio of the polarizer is well below 3 dB throughout overall CP bands due to the minimum tolerance level in reflection phases with respect to acceptable limits. Moreover, it is noticed that the sense of CP is left-handed in the first band while right-handed in the remaining two bands. Thus, the suggested polarizer has potential to be integrated with antennas for satellite, defense, industry applications for getting the desired type of polarization in the distinguished bands.
Effect of in-row spacing on weed suppression and yield of ‘Covington’ and ‘Monaco’ sweetpotato
Authors: Cooper Emmanuel , Meyers Stephen L. , Jennings Katherine , Adair Ashley , Gibson Kevin D. , Johnson William G.
Published: October 2024

Organic sweetpotato growers have limited effective weed management options, and most rely on in-season between-row cultivation and hand weeding, which are time consuming, are costly, and deteriorate soil quality. Studies were conducted at the Samuel G. Meigs Horticulture Research Farm, Lafayette, IN, and at the Southwest Purdue Agricultural Center, Vincennes, IN, in 2022 and 2023 to determine the effects of in-row plant spacing and cultivar selection on weed suppression and organic sweetpotato yield. The experiment was a split-split plot design, with in-row spacings of 20, 30, and 40 cm as the main plot factor, weeding frequency (critical weed-free period and weed-free) as the subplot factor, and sweetpotato cultivar (‘Covington’ and ‘Monaco’) as the sub-subplot factor. However, in 2022, we evaluated only in-row spacing and weeding frequency because of the poor establishment of ‘Monaco’. In 2023, sweetpotato canopy at 5 wk after transplanting (WAP) decreased as in-row spacing increased from 20 to 40 cm, and sweetpotato canopy cover of ‘Monaco’ (62%) was greater than that of ‘Covington’ (44%). In-row spacing did not affect weed density at 4, 5, and 6 WAP. As in-row spacing increased from 20 to 40 cm, total sweetpotato yield pooled across both locations in 2023 decreased from 30,223 to 21,209 kg ha−1 for ‘Covington’ and from 24,370 to 20,848 kg ha−1 for ‘Monaco’; however, jumbo yield increased for both cultivars. Findings from this study suggest that an in-row spacing of 20 cm may provide greater yield than the standard spacing of 30 cm for both ‘Monaco’ and ‘Covington’.
Ensemble Based Estimation of Wet Refractivity Indices Using a Functional Model Approach
Authors: Dehvari Masoud , Farzaneh Saeed , Forootan Ehsan
Published: October 2024

The estimation of the wet refractivity indices is crucial for applications like weather predictions or improving the accuracy of real‐time positioning techniques. Traditionally, solving the inverse tomography problem to estimate these atmospheric parameters has been challenging due to its ill‐posed nature and high computational demands, necessitating additional constraints. To overcome these challenges, the data assimilation method is proposed here to integrate Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observations into a background model. In this study, the Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) was served as the assimilation core to reduce the computational load and to enable the epoch‐wise estimation of wet refractivity indices. The Global Pressure and Temperature 3 (GPT3w) model was utilized as the background, and wet refractivity indices at each epoch were transformed into B‐spline coefficients, representing state vector parameters. Subsequently, GNSS derived zenith wet delay (ZWD) values were integrated into the model using the EnKF method. The study's region encompassed the western parts of Europe and incorporated approximately 893 GNSS stations. Evaluation spanned from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017. The estimated wet refractivity indices from the proposed method were compared with observations from 16 existing radiosonde stations, radio occultation data, and ZWD values from the 47 selected GNSS test stations. Additionally, calculated ZWD values, resulting from the integration of wet refractivity indices, were compared to the ZWD values from 47 test stations in the study region. The numerical results demonstrated that the proposed method achieved a root mean square error value of approximately 2.6 ppm, which was nearly 49% and 18% lower than that of the considered empirical and numerical atmospheric models, respectively.
Physical Modeling of Tsunamis Generated by Submarine Volcanic Eruptions
Authors: Liu Yibin , Fritz Hermann M.
Published: October 2024

Submarine volcanic eruptions can induce major local and regional tsunami hazards through varied source mechanisms. Large‐scale experiments of tsunamis generated by submarine volcanic eruptions are conducted to study the cylindrical wave generation and propagation in a three‐dimensional wave basin. A unique volcanic tsunami generator (VTG) was deployed at the bottom of the wave basin to generate volcanic tsunamis with repeatable and controlled source parameters. The physical modeling is based on the generalized Froude number defined with the VTG velocity and the near source water depth. The pneumatically driven vertical stroke motion generates leading elevation waves in the wave basin. The tsunami waves generated by the VTG are measured with a wave gauge array. The wave maker performance is characterized by the dimensionless leading wave amplitudes and periods. The experimental data show the variations of the leading wave amplitude, period, and celerity along the radial propagation distance. The generated cylindrical waves belong to the weakly nonlinear wave regime in the near field with decaying wave amplitude along radial propagation. The attenuation rate of the leading wave exceeds the range from the linear wave theory in runs with higher Froude numbers. The dimensionless leading wave period increases with the dimensionless propagation distance due to the dispersion relation. Empirical equations for the characteristic wave parameters such as amplitudes and periods are derived. The experimental results contribute to the understanding of volcanic tsunami generation processes and may serve rapid volcanic tsunami hazard assessments as well as the advancement and validation of numerical models.
Microbe Preferences Drive Ocean Carbon Pump
Authors: van Deelen Grace
Published: October 2024

New research offers insight into how certain bacteria degrade organic matter in Earth’s oceans.
Continuous-variable quantum passive optical network
Authors: Hajomer Adnan A. E. , Derkach Ivan , Filip Radim , Andersen Ulrik L. , C. Usenko Vladyslav , Gehring Tobias
Published: October 2024

To establish a scalable and secure quantum network, a critical milestone is advancing from basic point-to-point quantum key distribution (QKD) systems to the development of inherently multi-user protocols designed to maximize network capacity. Here, we propose a quantum passive optical network (QPON) protocol based on continuous-variable (CV) systems, particularly the quadrature of the coherent state, which enables deterministic, simultaneous, and high-rate secret key generation among all network users. We implement two protocols with different trust levels assigned to the network users and experimentally demonstrate key generation in a quantum access network with 8 users, each with an 11 km span of access link. Depending on the trust assumptions about the users, we reach 1.5 and 2.1 Mbits/s of total network key generation (or 0.4 and 1.0 Mbits/s with finite-size channels estimation). Demonstrating the potential to expand the network’s capacity to accommodate tens of users at a high rate, our CV-QPON protocols open up new possibilities in establishing low-cost, high-rate, and scalable secure quantum access networks serving as a stepping stone towards a quantum internet.
Tight focusing of fractional-order topological charge vector beams by cascading metamaterials and metalens
Authors: Ke Lan , Yang Yunyun , Zhu Mingmin , Zhou Haomiao , Chen Yi , Tian Ying , Li Chenxia , Fang Bo , Hong Zhi , Jing Xufeng
Published: October 2024

Vector beams have attracted widespread attention because of their unique optical properties; in particular, their combination with tight focusing can produce many interesting phenomena. The rise of 3D printing technology provides more possibilities for exploration. In this work, a cascading method involving a metamaterial and a metalens is used to generate a tightly focused field of vector beams in the terahertz band, which is prepared via 3D printing. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, a series of metamaterial modules capable of generating states of different orbital angular momentum are proposed by cascading with a metalens. The experimental results are in good agreement with the simulation results, fully verifying the feasibility of the scheme. The proposed design and fabrication strategy provides a new idea for the tight focusing of terahertz vector beams.
A monoallelic variant in CCN2 causes an autosomal dominant spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia with low bone mass
Authors: Li Shanshan , Shao Rui , Li Shufa , Zhao Jiao , Deng Qi , Li Ping , Wei Zhanying , Xu Shuqin , Chen Lin , Li Baojie , Zou Weiguo , Zhang Zhenlin
Published: October 2024

Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) is a secreted extracellular matrix-associated protein, and its aberrantly increased expression has been implicated in a diversity of diseases involving pathological processes of fibrosis, chronic inflammation, or tissue injury, which has promoted the evaluation of CCN2 as therapeutic targets for multiple disorders. However, human phenotypes associated with CCN2 deficiency have remained enigmatic; variants in CCN2 have not yet been associated with a human phenotype. Here, we collected families diagnosed with spondyloepimetaphyseal dysplasia (SEMD), and screened candidate pathogenic genes for families without known genetic causes using next-generation sequencing. We identified a monoallelic variant in signal peptide of CCN2 (NM_001901.2: c.65 G > C [p.Arg22Pro]) as the cause of SEMD in 14 subjects presenting with different degree of short stature, premature osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis. Affected subjects showed decreased serum CCN2 levels. Cell lines harboring the variant displayed decreased amount of CCN2 proteins in culture medium and an increased intracellular retention, indicating impaired protein secretion. And the variant weakened the stimulation effect of CCN2 on osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Zebrafish ccn2a knockout model and osteoblast lineage-specific Ccn2-deficient mice (Ccn2fl/fl;Prx1Cre) partially recapitulated the phenotypes including low bone mass observed in affected subjects. Pathological mechanism implicated in the skeletal abnormality in Ccn2fl/fl;Prx1Cre mice involved decreased bone formation, increased bone resorption, and abnormal growth plate formation. Collectively, our study indicate that monoallelic variants in CCN2 lead to a human inherited skeletal dysplasia, and highlight the critical role of CCN2 in osteogenesis in human.
YTHDC1-mediated microRNA maturation is essential for hematopoietic stem cells maintenance
Authors: Zuo Hongna , Liu Jin , Shen Bin , Sheng Yue , Ju Zhenyu , Wang Hu
Published: October 2024

YTHDC1, a reader of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications on RNA, is posited to exert significant influence over RNA metabolism. Despite its recognized importance, the precise function and underlying mechanisms of YTHDC1 in the preservation of normal hematopoietic stem cell (HSCs) homeostasis remain elusive. Here, we investigated the role of YTHDC1 in normal hematopoiesis and HSCs maintenance in vivo. Utilizing conditional Ythdc1 knockout mice and Ythdc1/Mettl3 double knockout mice, we demonstrated that YTHDC1 is required for HSCs maintenance and self-renewal by regulating microRNA maturation. YTHDC1 deficiency resulted in HSCs apoptosis. Furthermore, we uncovered that YTHDC1 interacts with HP1BP3, a nuclear RNA binding protein involved in microRNA maturation. Deletion of YTHDC1 brought about significant alterations in microRNA levels. However, over-expression of mir-125b, mir-99b, and let-7e partially rescued the functional defect of YTHDC1-null HSCs. Taken together, these findings indicated that the nuclear protein YTHDC1-HP1BP3-microRNA maturation axis is essential for the long-term maintenance of HSCs.