bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the spread of entanglement at finite cutoff
Authors: Coleman Evan , Soni Ronak M. , Yang Sungyeon
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We study how entanglement spreads in the boundary duals of finite-cutoff three-dimensional theories with positive, negative and zero cosmological constant, the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

+ Λ2 two-dimensional theories. We first study the Hawking-Page transition in all three cases, and find that there is a transition in all three scenarios at the temperature where the lengths of the two cycles of the torus are the same. We then study the entanglement entropy in the thermofield double states above the Hawking-Page transition, of regions symmetrically placed on the two boundaries. We consider the case where the region is one interval on each side, and the case where it is two intervals on each side. We give an entanglement tsunami interpretation of the time-evolution of the entanglement entropies.
DE-type little strings from glued brane webs
Authors: Wei Xing-Yue , Sugimoto Yuji , Yagi Futoshi , Kim Sung-Soo
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We propose brane web configurations for D-type and E-type $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
=(1,0) little string theories based on a trivalent or quadrivalent gluing of 5-brane web diagrams. Tri-/quadri-valent gluing is a powerful way of computing 5d/6d partition functions for supersymmetric gauge theories based on the topological vertex. We generalize the gluing techniques to little string theories by introducing a new compact direction and compute their supersymmetric partition functions on Omega-deformed ℝ4×T2. As concrete examples, we consider little string theories arising from Type IIB NS5-branes probing D4 or D5 singularity. Their effective gauge theory descriptions as the affine D4 or D5 quiver gauge theory can be realized with quadrivalent or trivalent gluing, respectively. Based on these gluings of 5-brane webs, we compute their refined partition functions and compare them with the known results. We extend the computation of the partition function to little string theory engineered from IIB NS5-branes probing E6 singularity based on a trivalent gluing. We also discuss the generalization to higher rank cases and the symmetries of the partition functions.
Development of a rapid, efficient, and reusable magnetic bead-based immunocapture system for recombinant human procollagen type II isolation from yeast fermentation broth
Authors: Lioi Martina , Tengattini Sara , Bagatin Francesca , Galliani Stefano , Daly Simona , Massolini Gabriella , Temporini Caterina
Published: May 2023

Recombinant collagen production, especially using yeasts as expression systems, could represent a promising alternative over traditional extractive methods from animal sources, offering controllable, scalable, and high-quality products. Monitoring the efficiency and efficacy of procollagen/collagen expression, especially in the initial fermentation phases, can be difficult and time consuming, as biological matrices necessitate purification and commonly used analytical methods are only partially informative. We propose a straightforward, efficient, and reusable immunocapture system able to specifically isolate human procollagen type II from fermentation broths and to release it in few experimental steps. A recovered sample allows for a detailed characterization providing information on structural identity and integrity, which can strongly support the monitoring of fermentation processes. The immunocapture system relies on the use of protein A–coated magnetic beads which have been functionalized and cross-linked with a human anti-procollagen II antibody (average immobilization yield of 97.7%) to create a stable and reusable support for the specific procollagen fishing. We set up the binding and release conditions ensuring specific and reproducible binding with a synthetic procollagen antigen. The absence of non-specific interaction with the support and binding specificity was demonstrated, and the latter was also confirmed by a peptide mapping epitope study in reversed-phase liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (RP-LC-HRMS). The bio-activated support proved to be reusable and stable over 21 days from the initial use. Finally, the system was successfully tested on a raw yeast fermentation sample to provide a proof of concept of the applicability within recombinant collagen production.

Graphical Abstract
Multi-objective Allocation Optimization of Soil Conservation Measures Under Data Uncertainty
Authors: Hildemann Moritz , Pebesma Edzer , Verstegen Judith Anne
Published: May 2023

Many regions worldwide face soil loss rates that endanger future food supply. Constructing soil and water conservation measures reduces soil loss but comes with high labor costs. Multi-objective optimization allows considering both soil loss rates and labor costs, however, required spatial data contain uncertainties. Spatial data uncertainty has not been considered for allocating soil and water conservation measures. We propose a multi-objective genetic algorithm with stochastic objective functions considering uncertain soil and precipitation variables to overcome this gap. We conducted the study in three rural areas in Ethiopia. Uncertain precipitation and soil properties propagate to uncertain soil loss rates with values that range up to 14%. Uncertain soil properties complicate the classification into stable or unstable soil, which affects estimating labor requirements. The obtained labor requirement estimates range up to 15 labor days per hectare. Upon further analysis of common patterns in optimal solutions, we conclude that the results can help determine optimal final and intermediate construction stages and that the modeling and the consideration of spatial data uncertainty play a crucial role in identifying optimal solutions.
Business process modeling language selection for research modelers
Authors: Farshidi Siamak , Kwantes Izaak Beer , Jansen Slinger
Published: May 2023

Business process modeling is a crucial aspect of domains such as Business Process Management and Software Engineering. The availability of various BPM languages in the market makes it challenging for process modelers to select the best-fit BPM language for a specific process modeling task. A decision model is necessary to systematically capture and make scattered knowledge on BPM languages available for reuse by process modelers and academics. This paper presents a decision model for the BPM language selection problem in research projects. The model contains mappings of 72 BPM features to 23 BPM languages. We validated and refined the decision model through 10 expert interviews with domain experts from various organizations. We evaluated the efficiency, validity, and generality of the decision model by conducting four case studies of academic research projects with their original researchers. The results confirmed that the decision model supports process modelers in the selection process by providing more insights into the decision process. Based on the empirical evidence from the case studies and domain expert feedback, we conclude that having the knowledge readily available in the decision model supports academics in making more informed decisions that align with their preferences and prioritized requirements. Furthermore, the captured knowledge provides a comprehensive overview of BPM languages, features, and quality characteristics that other researchers can employ to tackle future research challenges. Our observations indicate that BPMN is a commonly used modeling language for process modeling. Therefore, it is more sensible for academics to explain why they did not select BPMN than to discuss why they chose it for their research project(s).
Owner attitudes and landscape parameters drive stand structure and valuable habitats in small-scale private forests of Lower Saxony (Germany)
Authors: Hansen Peter , Tiebel Malin , Plieninger Tobias , Mölder Andreas
Published: May 2023

Small-scale private forests cover large areas in Europe and often contain structures and habitats of high nature conservation value that are increasingly put under pressure due to a rising interest in fuelwood and wood products. We investigate the distribution of variables like living tree and deadwood volumes, management intensity, diversity and density of tree-related microhabitats recorded in 81 small-scale private forest parcels in the Lower Saxon Hills (northwest Germany). We provide an assessment of the influence of predictors like the individual forest owners’ goals and activities, as stated by them in a quantitative survey, as well as landscape parameters like parcel size, slope, landscape fragmentation and forest continuity. Our results indicate that there are two types of structures of conservation value in small-scale private forests: slowly evolving structures (type A) like large-diameter living trees and tree-related microhabitats which mostly depend on landscape parameters that act on longer time scales, and fast evolving structures (type B) like deadwood that are influenced by both owner attitudes and landscape parameters. The resulting implications for integrative forest and conservation management are discussed. When considering the conservation of the slowly evolving type A structures, long-term commitments to conservation legislation, financial incentives and generation-spanning education of forest owners are necessary. Efforts to promote the faster evolving type B structures might prove particularly advantageous in small-scale private forests given the structural diversity of the stands, but also the often strong identification of owners with their land.

Graphical abstract
Ecological monitoring of disturbed mountain peatlands: an analysis based on desmids
Authors: Neustupa Jiri , Stastny Jan , Woodard Katerina
Published: May 2023

Ombrogenous peat bogs at lower altitudes of the Bohemian Massif occur close to their natural climatic limits in the Northern Hemisphere. They have been significantly affected by peat extraction and severe acidification. Recently, climate change effects, such as decreased snow cover and summer heat waves, have resulted in frequent seasonal desiccation of these habitats, indicating their ongoing transition into a different ecological state. Biomonitoring may provide insight into these rapidly changing ecosystems and identify key habitats for biodiversity conservation. The present study focused on the community structure of desmids, one of the most frequent groups of peatland phytobenthos. In total, 207 sites were sampled from the Ore Mts. (Czech Republic) at the altitude range of 750–850 m a.s.l. A modification of the desmid-based nature conservation value (NCV) index was devised to account for the differences among the observed strongly acidic habitats. In the fragments of ombrogenous bogs, which currently cover less than 3% of the area, several ecologically sensitive taxa, such as Cosmarium sphagnicolum and Staurastrum scabrum, were recorded. These taxa did not occur in other habitat types. In addition, the NCV indices of the bog samples were consistently higher than those of the restored pools created in the disturbed bog areas. However, the highest species richness was recorded in several slightly acidic ponds and sinkholes, which were often located outside the existing protected areas. Thus, we concluded that future conservation strategies should consider the remaining bogs and anthropogenic sites as habitats with relatively high ecological values.
Genetic diversity and origin of captive lion (Panthera leo) in South Africa: an assessment and comparison to wild populations
Authors: Miller Susan M. , Kotze Antoinette , Harper Cindy K. , Bishop Jacqueline M. , Williams Vivienne L. , Rossouw Charné , Schoeman Johanita , de Bruyn Marli , Dalton Desiré Lee , Selier S. A. Jeanetta
Published: May 2023

South Africa has a large captive lion (Panthera leo) sector, but detailed knowledge on the origin of individuals and any potential genetic value to conservation targets is lacking. In 2021, the South African government committed to closing the sector and have since appointed a Ministerial Lion Task Team (2022) to initiate this process. Some have suggested that captive lions could be integrated into wild populations as part of the process but information on the genetic origins and diversity of captive lions is critical if this is to be explored further. Both the Biodiversity Management Plan for lions in South Africa (2015) and a High-Level Ministerial report for the South African government (2021) have called for more information on the genetic composition of captive lions. To determine the probable origin of captive lions in South Africa we summarised existing survey responses from captive facilities (collected 2017–2018) and CITES permit data (issued 1991–2019). Survey data suggest that most lions were sourced from within the South African captive sector. However, many CITES permits were also issued for the import of lions from across Africa and beyond, indicating possible mixed origins within the sector. To evaluate genetic relationships between captive and wild lions in South Africa we standardised existing microsatellite marker data from three laboratories and analysed genotypes of captive lions from 31 properties. A comparison of captive and wild lion genotypes revealed that the genetic composition of captive lions is currently comparable to existing wild South African lions. Captive lions cluster with similar probabilities to three of four regional reference populations of wild lions included in the study and no major signatures of inbreeding were identified. However, captive lions are highly genetically interconnected across properties and represent a smaller effective population size compared to Kruger National Park, the largest population of wild lions in South Africa, suggesting some risk of future inbreeding. There were also signatures of genetic drift which should be investigated further as it will likely compromise any potential conservation genetic value of captive lions in the future. The findings of this study should be considered when planning the fate of individuals within South Africa’s captive lion sector and within the broader context of African lion conservation.
Diversity and structure of Bettongia tropica: using population genetics to guide reintroduction and help prevent the extinction of an endangered Australian marsupial
Authors: Todd Stephanie J. , McKnight Donald T. , Congdon Brad C. , Pierson Jennifer , Fischer Manuela , Abell Sandra , Koleck Jessica
Published: May 2023

Conservation translocations can restore populations and prevent extinction of threatened species. Sourcing adequate genetic diversity is an essential consideration when planning reintroductions, because it influences individual fitness and long-term persistence of populations, yet available populations of threatened species may lack diversity. We estimated population genetic parameters for one of Australia’s most threatened mammals, the northern bettong, Bettongia tropica, to select source populations for reintroduction. Individuals from sites across the species’ extant range in the Wet Tropics of north Queensland were genotyped, using 6,133 informative SNPs. We found that samples clustered into four populations: an isolated northern population at Mt Spurgeon and three connected southern populations in the Lamb Range. Most of the species’ genetic diversity was dispersed across the Lamb Range populations in approximately equal proportions. Populations showed an isolation-by-distance effect, even over short distances within continuous habitat. Admixture of populations was high at distances < 7 km but low at distances > 11 km, and there was asymmetrical gene flow between the two closest neighboring populations. All populations had small effective sizes and experienced drift, but connectivity appears to have mitigated drift and stabilized population sizes within the Lamb Range. The Mt Spurgeon population had a very small effective population size and low genetic diversity. We use our findings to weigh up the risks and benefits of mixing sources for reintroduction, and we recommend a mixed source approach. We do not currently recommend sourcing individuals from Mt Spurgeon and conservation efforts to preserve this population are urgently required.
Manipulating the Ulva holobiont: Co-culturing Ulva ohnoi with Phaeobacter bacteria as a strategy for disease control in fish-macroalgae IMTA-RAS aquaculture
Authors: Pintado José , Del Olmo Gonzalo , Guinebert Thomas , Ruiz Patricia , Nappi Jadranka , Thomas Torsten , Egan Suhelen , Masaló Ingrid , Cremades Javier
Published: May 2023

The green alga Ulva ohnoi M. Hiraoka & S. Shimada is an effective biofiltration agent of fish effluents in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture Recirculation Systems (IMTA-RAS), due to its high growth rate and high nutrient (N and P) removal in temperate conditions. Moreover, Ulva species provide an important niche for biofilm-forming bacteria, including strains of Phaeobacter that possess antagonistic activity against pathogenic Vibrio species, and have been shown to reduce the mortality of fish in aquaculture settings. This research aimed to examine the potential of using U. ohnoi colonised with Phaeobacter sp. 4UAC3, previously isolated from natural populations of Ulva australis, as a strategy to prevent vibriosis in IMTA-RAS. The results showed that Phaeobacter sp. 4UAC3 was able to colonise and be maintained on U. ohnoi during a re-inoculation scale-up process from multi-well plates (10 mL) to flasks (4 L) and finally to tanks (40 L). Phaeobacter sp. 4UAC3 rapidly colonised the surface of the Ulva but it did not significantly modify the rest of the bacterial communities present in U. ohnoi surface in terms of diversity and composition. Infection assays using fish larvae (Scophthalmus maximus) with V. anguillarum in a model IMTA-RAS showed that Phaeobacter–colonized U. ohnoi promoted the reduction of mortality in the infected larvae, however this trend was not statistically supported. These results suggested that U. ohnoi can be experimentally colonised with Phaeobacter sp. 4UAC3 and has potential to be used in IMTA-RAS as an alternative to traditional disease control methods.
Structural, optical and giant dielectric constant properties of pure ktenasite and schulenbergite/CuO minerals
Authors: Yakout S. M. , Youssef A. M. , Mousa Sahar M.
Published: May 2023

In this study, schulenbergite [(Cu,Zn)7(SO4)2(OH)10·3H2O)]/CuO and pure ktenasite [(Cu,Zn)5(SO4)2(OH)6·6H2O)] minerals were simply synthesized via addition of sodium sulfide (Na2S) to a mixture of nanosized CuO powder dispersed into Zn(NO3)2·6H2O solution. The X-ray diffraction patterns illustrate the formation of schulenbergite/CuO mineral with ratio of 69:31% and 87/13% owing to additions of 0.1 and 0.2 mol L−1 Na2S, respectively. The addition of 0.4 mol L−1 Na2S substance lead to formation of pure ktenasite [(Cu,Zn)5(SO4)2(OH)6·6H2O)] mineral. The absorption vibration modes based on Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis verified the formation of schulenbergite/CuO and pure ktenasite compositions. The scanning electron microscope micrographs of schulenbergite/CuO and pure ktenasite samples reveal the formation of mixed grains with needle, sheets, cotton and wool shapes. The selected area electron diffraction images of the synthesized powders show strong dot-rings, indicating polycrystalline nature. Optically, all samples possess a high absorption ability for infrared-visible light wavelengths. At lower frequencies, the pellet of pure ktenasite sample exhibits giant dielectric constant characteristics. Exactly, pure ktenasite sample reveals a dielectric constant value of ~ 1.3 × 106 at frequency of 42 Hz. For schulenbergite/CuO (87/13%) sample, a large dielectric constant value of ~ 5311 was measured at frequency of 42 Hz. The colossal and variable relative permittivity values make the pure ktenasite [(Cu,Zn)5(SO4)2(OH)6·6H2O)] mineral is a suggested material for energy storage applications.
A comprehensive review of methods of heat transfer enhancement in shell and tube heat exchangers
Authors: Marzouk S. A. , Abou Al-Sood M. M. , El-Said Emad M. S. , Younes M. M. , El-Fakharany Magda K.
Published: May 2023

A wide range of studies was conducted to increase the heat transfer rate and reduce the size and cost of shell and tube heat exchangers (STHE). The paper’s contributions lie in its ability to provide a comprehensive, up-to-date, and systematic overview of the various methods available for heat transfer enhancement in STHEs, making it an essential resource for researchers, engineers, and practitioners in the field of heat transfer. The studies that researched the overall heat transfer coefficient (U), number of transfer units, exergy efficiency, pressure drop, and thermal–hydraulic performance were reviewed. There are some advantages of the passive method such as no external needed power and lower operating cost compared to the active methods. The studies broadly support the view that heat transfer enhancement in STHE is heading toward considerable progress. A total of 47.8% of studies have focused on the passive approach, the air injection method, enhancing heat transfer utilizing nanofluids, and compound methods have percentages of studies 20.2, 22.3, and 9.7%, respectively. The air bubble injection causes the rise of the U ratio where the maximum value was indicated at 452% compared to only water flow. Swirl vane, corrugated tube, and wire coil insert have U ratio values of 130, 161, and 264%, respectively. Nanofluid results in a growth in the heat transfer where the TiO2 has the maximum U ratio (175.9%) compared to traditional fluid. The combination of air injection and passive heat augmentation methods, which was shown to be a substantial solution to several issues, needs to be the focus of more work in the future. Geometrical changes in tube surfaces in STHE are too required in the future with the use of materials coating to enhance heat transfer. The theoretical analysis of heat transfer techniques still needs to be improved, especially for pertinent empirical formulations. Also, since there aren’t many relevant numerical simulations, more attention is required.
Factors that influence patient and public adverse drug reaction reporting: a systematic review using the theoretical domains framework
Authors: Shafei Laila , Mekki Lina , Maklad Esraa , Alhathal Turfa , Ghanem Rawan , Almalouf Rama , Stewart Derek , Nazar Zachariah
Published: May 2023

Background

Only 5–10% of all adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are reported. Mechanisms to support patient and public reporting offer numerous advantages to health care systems including increasing reporting rate. Theory-informed insights into the factors implicated in patient and public underreporting are likely to offer valuable opportunity for the development of effective reporting-interventions and optimization of existing systems.

Aim

To collate, summarize and synthesize the reported behavioral determinants using the theoretical domains framework (TDF), that influence patient and public reporting of ADRs.

Method

Cochrane, CINAHL, Web of science, EMBASE and PubMed were systematically searched on October 25th, 2021. Studies assessing the factors influencing public or patients reporting of ADRs were included. Full-text screening, data extraction and quality appraisal were performed independently by two authors. Extracted factors were mapped to TDF.

Results

26 studies were included conducted in 14 countries across five continents. Knowledge, social/professional role and identity, beliefs about consequences, and environmental context and resources, appeared to be the most significant TDF domains that influenced patient and public behaviors regarding ADR reporting.

Conclusion

Studies included in this review were deemed of low risk of bias and allowed for identification of key behavioural determinants, which may be mapped to evidence-based behavioral change strategies that facilitate intervention development to enhance rates of ADR reporting. Aligning strategies should focus on education, training and further involvement from regulatory bodies and government support to establish mechanisms, which facilitate feedback and follow-ups on submitted reports.
Factors associated with underreporting of adverse drug reactions by patients: a systematic review
Authors: Costa Catarina , Abeijon Patricia , Rodrigues Daniela A. , Figueiras Adolfo , Herdeiro Maria Teresa , Torre Carla
Published: May 2023

Background

Spontaneous reporting is the most used method to monitor post-marketing safety information. Although patient involvement in spontaneous reporting has increased overtime, little is known about factors associated with patients’ adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting.

Aim

To identify and assess the sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes and knowledge that influence spontaneous reporting and the reasons associated with ADR underreporting by patients.

Method

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A search on the MEDLINE and EMBASE scientific databases was performed to retrieve studies published between 1 January 2006 and 1 November 2022. Studies were included if they addressed knowledge and attitudes associated with ADR underreporting.

Results

A total of 2512 citations were identified, of which 13 studies were included. Sociodemographic characteristics were frequently identified with ADR reporting in 6 studies, being age (3/13) and level of education (3/13) the most often reported. Older age groups (2/13) and individuals with higher level of education (3/13) were more likely to report ADRs. Underreporting was shown to be motivated by reasons related to knowledge, attitudes, and excuses. Ignorance (10/13), complacency (6/13), and lethargy (6/13) were the most frequent reasons for not reporting.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the scarcity of research conducted with the aim of assessing ADR underreporting by patients. Knowledge, attitudes, and excuses were commonly observed in the decision to report ADRs. These motives are characteristics that can be changed; hence strategies must be designed to raise awareness, continually educate, and empower this population to change the paradigm of underreporting.
Does the Empowering Function of the Belief in a Just World Generalise? Broad-base Cross-sectional and Longitudinal Evidence
Authors: Bartholomaeus Jonathan , Strelan Peter , Burns Nicholas
Published: May 2023

The empowering function of the belief in a just world for the self (BJW-self) has been suggested as one mechanism by which BJW-self promotes positive psychological functioning for the individual. In this investigation we seek to understand if this empowerment function generalises to a broad range of positive and negative psychological variables and whether the function can be observed outside of tightly controlled experimental designs. We use a mix of cross-sectional and longitudinal designs (N = 840) to test these aspects of the empowerment function. In Sample 1 we find support for the positive indirect effect of BJW-self on life satisfaction, optimism, and resilience through empowerment. Similarly, BJW-self has a negative indirect effect on depression, anxiety, and stress through empowerment. These findings are broadly replicated in Sample 2. A subsample of Sample 1 completed measures again after one year (Subsample 3) allowing for a longitudinal test of the empowerment function. Findings provide mixed support for the empowering contribution of BJW-self to adaptive outcomes over time. Theoretical implications are discussed, as well as the important methodological and measurement issues that require attention for the individual differences study of BJW to progress effectively.
Axiomatizing a Minimal Discussive Logic
Authors: Grigoriev Oleg , Nasieniewski Marek , Mruczek-Nasieniewska Krystyna , Petrukhin Yaroslav , Shangin Vasily
Published: May 2023

In the paper we analyse the problem of axiomatizing the minimal variant of discussive logic denoted as $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {0}}$$

D
0

. Our aim is to give its axiomatization that would correspond to a known axiomatization of the original discussive logic $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {2}}$$

D
2

. The considered system is minimal in a class of discussive logics. It is defined similarly, as Jaśkowski’s logic $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {2}}$$

D
2

but with the help of the deontic normal logic $$\textbf{D}$$
D
. Although we focus on the smallest discussive logic and its correspondence to $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {2}}$$

D
2

, we analyse to some extent also its formal aspects, in particular its behaviour with respect to rules that hold for classical logic. In the paper we propose a deductive system for the above recalled discussive logic. While formulating this system, we apply a method of Newton da Costa and Lech Dubikajtis—a modified version of Jerzy Kotas’s method used to axiomatize $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {2}}$$

D
2

. Basically the difference manifests in the result—in the case of da Costa and Dubikajtis, the resulting axiomatization is pure modus ponens-style. In the case of $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {0}}$$

D
0

, we have to use some rules, but they are mostly needed to express some aspects of positive logic. $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {0}}$$

D
0

understood as a set of theses is contained in $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {2}}$$

D
2

. Additionally, any non-trivial discussive logic expressed by means of Jaśkowski’s model of discussion, applied to any regular modal logic of discussion, contains $$ {\textsf {D}}_{\textsf {0}}$$

D
0

.
A new axiomatization of discounted expected utility
Authors: Neumann Berenice Anne , Rieger Marc Oliver
Published: May 2023

We present a new axiomatization of the classical discounted expected utility model, which is primarily used as a decision model for consumption streams under risk. This new axiomatization characterizes discounted expected utility as a model that satisfies natural extensions of standard axioms as in the one-period case and two additional axioms. The first axiom is a weak form of time separability. It only requires that the choice between certain constant consumption streams and lotteries should be made by just taking into account the time periods where the consumption is different. The second axiom, the time–probability equivalence, requires that risk and time preferences basically work in the same way. Moreover, we prove that preferences satisfying the natural extensions of the standard axioms as well as the first axiom can be represented in a simple form relying on three functions linked to the risk or time preferences in simple situations. Finally, we illustrate that several examples that are not fully time separable satisfy all our axioms except for the time–probability equivalence.
Combined Operando XANES and NMR and ESR Spectroscopies for the Determination of VPO Dynamic States
Authors: Guerrero-Pérez M. Olga , Lapina Olga B. , Rasmussen Søren B. , Bañares Miguel A.
Published: May 2023

Nanoscaled-VPO (vanadium phosphate oxide) catalysts have been prepared on an alumina support with the objective of obtaining crystallites of the active phase with a high surface-to-volume ratio. Since the catalysed reaction occurs at the surface, these nanoscaled catalysts allows studying surface species transformations with a minimized signal from the bulk dominion. The chemical environment and oxidation state of these species has been determined by a combination of NMR, ESR and XANES spectroscopies. The results have allowed to optimize V + P coverage and V/P molar ratio to minimize the concentration of isolated vanadium oxide species and maximize V4+ concentration. The distribution of phosphorus islands ordered and significantly distorted of tetra- and penta-coordinated aluminium sites of the catalytic support, thus shaping the catalytic material to an optimal structure for the desired partial oxidation reaction.
Carnivore coexistence in Chicago: niche partitioning of coyotes and red foxes
Authors: Cervantes Alyson M. , Schooley Robert L. , Lehrer Elizabeth W. , Gallo Travis , Allen Maximilian L. , Fidino Mason , Magle Seth B.
Published: May 2023

Mesopredators including coyotes (Canis latrans) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) often co-occur in urban environments, but how niche partitioning facilitates their coexistence remains unclear. Highly urbanized areas can be spatial refuges for smaller mesopredators (i.e., spatial human shield effect), however these species also may coexist through temporal niche partitioning. We used camera traps (n= 110 sites) across an urbanization gradient in Chicago to examine coyote-fox interactions from 2011 to 2018. We analyzed spatial partitioning through multi-season occupancy models and structural equation modeling (SEM), and quantified temporal overlap between canids and with humans. Coyotes most often occurred in natural areas, and urbanization reduced their colonization rates and increased their extinction rates. Initial occupancy for red foxes was negatively impacted by urbanization, but their extinction rates depended on a surprising interaction between coyotes and humans. When coyotes were rare, fox extinction was related positively to human activity; but when coyotes were more common, fox extinction was related negatively to human activity. This outcome may reflect a human shield effect at a within-site scale. The SEM further supported the negative impact of urbanization on both canids, and lack of an effect of coyotes on the distribution of foxes. Diel activity of coyotes and red foxes indicated temporal niche partitioning intensified at more urbanized sites. Our results suggest the spatial human shield effect is not operating across sites in Chicago. Instead, coyotes and red foxes may share green spaces, especially in highly urbanized areas, where species coexistence is promoted by temporal niche partitioning.
Newly Isolated Ligninolytic Bacteria and Its Applications for Multiple Dye Degradation
Authors: Rahayu Farida , Mustafa Irfan , Marjani  , Rochman Fatkhur , Qazi Raina Aman , Zeb Khan , Ullah Nabi
Published: May 2023

The textile industry is expanding globally and is considered the backbone of the world’s largest source of foreign exchange. The development of the textile industry has caused environmental contamination due to its dye waste, which is complex and very difficult to resolve with chemical and physical treatments. Azo dye is one of the most widely used dyes in textile and other industries. It is one of the significantly toxic dyes, and when released in water bodies, it causes a serious threat to the environment. A bacterial strain having the potential to degrade a variety of azo dyes such as Congo red (CR), methylene blue (MB), Alizarin Red S (AR), and Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) was isolated from soil samples in the wood weathering area and further identified and characterized. Ligninolytic microorganisms produce laccase enzymes, lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and other enzymes that can decolorize dye waste from the textile industry. The research phase was qualitative and quantitative tests of ligninolytic bacteria in the decolorization process using several selected synthetic dyes, antagonism tests, and identification of potential bacteria based on 16S rDNA gene sequences. The L11 isolate showed high performance on CR dye of 82.79%, L1 isolate on dye AR of 40.51%, L7 isolate on dye MB of 38.69%, and L8 isolate on RBBR dye of 30.34%. The L11 isolate with the highest potency was identified as Bacillus paramycoides K7.2 with a similarity of 99.71%. After 7 days of incubation, the quantitative test findings are the same as the qualitative test results, with isolate L11 having the largest clear zone on CR, AR, and RBBR dyes.
Diadenosine pentaphosphate regulates dendrite growth and number in cultured hippocampal neurons
Authors: Diez-Zaera M. , Ruiz-Calvo A. , Diaz-Hernandez J. I. , Sebastián-Serrano A. , Aivar P. , Alvarez-Castelao B. , Pintor J. , Diaz-Hernandez M. , Miras-Portugal M. T.
Published: May 2023

During the establishment of neuronal circuits, axons and dendrites grow and branch to establish specific synaptic connections. This complex process is highly regulated by positive and negative extracellular cues guiding the axons and dendrites. Our group was pioneer in describing that one of these signals are the extracellular purines. We found that extracellular ATP, through its selective ionotropic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R), negatively regulates axonal growth and branching. Here, we evaluate if other purinergic compounds, such as the diadenosine pentaphosphate (Ap5A), may module the dynamics of dendritic or axonal growth and branching in cultured hippocampal neurons. Our results show that Ap5A negatively modulates the dendrite’s growth and number by inducing transient intracellular calcium increases in the dendrites’ growth cone. Interestingly, phenol red, commonly used as a pH indicator in culture media, also blocks the P2X1 receptors, avoided the negative modulation of Ap5A on dendrites. Subsequent pharmacological studies using a battery of selective P2X1R antagonists confirmed the involvement of this subunit. In agreement with pharmacological studies, P2X1R overexpression caused a similar reduction in dendritic length and number as that induced by Ap5A. This effect was reverted when neurons were co-transfected with the vector expressing the interference RNA for P2X1R. Despite small hairpin RNAs reverting the reduction in the number of dendrites caused by Ap5A, it did not avoid the dendritic length decrease induced by the polyphosphate, suggesting, therefore, the involvement of a heteromeric P2X receptor. Our results are indicating that Ap5A exerts a negative influence on dendritic growth.
Random Effects Multinomial Processing Tree Models: A Maximum Likelihood Approach
Authors: Nestler Steffen , Erdfelder Edgar
Published: May 2023

The present article proposes and evaluates marginal maximum likelihood (ML) estimation methods for hierarchical multinomial processing tree (MPT) models with random and fixed effects. We assume that an identifiable MPT model with S parameters holds for each participant. Of these S parameters, R parameters are assumed to vary randomly between participants, and the remaining <mml:math xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:mnf="http://cambridge.org/core/manifest" xmlns:cup="http://contentservices.cambridge.org" xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:m="http://cambridge.org/core/metadata" xmlns:core="http://cambridge.org/core" xmlns:c="http://cambridge.org/core/content">S-R\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$S-R$$\end{document} parameters are assumed to be fixed. We also propose an extended version of the model that includes effects of covariates on MPT model parameters. Because the likelihood functions of both versions of the model are too complex to be tractable, we propose three numerical methods to approximate the integrals that occur in the likelihood function, namely, the Laplace approximation (LA), adaptive Gauss–Hermite quadrature (AGHQ), and Quasi Monte Carlo (QMC) integration. We compare these three methods in a simulation study and show that AGHQ performs well in terms of both bias and coverage rate. QMC also performs well but the number of responses per participant must be sufficiently large. In contrast, LA fails quite often due to undefined standard errors. We also suggest ML-based methods to test the goodness of fit and to compare models taking model complexity into account. The article closes with an illustrative empirical application and an outlook on possible extensions and future applications of the proposed ML approach.
On the importance of patient acceptance for medical robotic imaging
Authors: Eilers Christine , van Kemenade Rob , Busam Benjamin , Navab Nassir
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Mutual acceptance is required for any human-to-human interaction. Therefore, one would assume that this also holds for robot–patient interactions. However, the medical robotic imaging field lacks research in the area of acceptance. This work, therefore, aims at analyzing the influence of robot–patient interactions on acceptance in an exemplary medical robotic imaging system.

Methods

We designed an interactive human-robot scenario, including auditive and gestural cues, and compared this pipeline to a non-interactive scenario. Both scenarios were evaluated through a questionnaire to measure acceptance. Heart rate monitoring was also used to measure stress. The impact of the interaction was quantified in the use case of robotic ultrasound scanning of the neck.

Results

We conducted the first user study on patient acceptance of robotic ultrasound. Results show that verbal interactions impacts trust more than gestural ones. Furthermore, through interaction, the robot is perceived to be friendlier. The heart rate data indicates that robot–patient interaction could reduce stress.

Conclusions

Robot–patient interactions are crucial for improving acceptance in medical robotic imaging systems. While verbal interaction is most important, the preferred interaction type and content are participant dependent. Heart rate values indicate that such interactions can also reduce stress. Overall, this initial work showed that interactions improve patient acceptance in medical robotic imaging, and other medical robot–patient systems can benefit from the design proposals to enhance acceptance in interactive scenarios.
Robotic versus laparoscopic left colectomy: a propensity score matched analysis from a bi-centric experience
Authors: Solaini Leonardo , Giuliani Giuseppe , Cavaliere Davide , Bocchino Antonio , Di Marino Michele , Avanzolini Andrea , Coratti Andrea , Ercolani Giorgio
Published: May 2023

The advantages of using the robotic platform may not be clearly evident in left colectomies, where the surgeon operates in an “open field” and does not routinely require intraoperative suturing. Current evidences are based on limited cohorts reporting conflicting outcomes regarding robotic left colectomies (RLC). The aim of this study is to report a bi-centric experience with robotic left colectomy in order to help in defining the role of the robotic approach for these procedures. This is a bi-centric propensity score matched study including patients who underwent RLC or laparoscopic left colectomy (LLC) between January 1, 2012 and May 1, 2022. RLC patients were matched to LLC patients in a 1:1 ratio. Main outcomes were conversion to open surgery and 30-day morbidity. In total, 300 patients were included. Of 143 (47.7%) RLC patients, 119 could be matched. After matching, conversion rate (4.2 vs. 7.6%, p = 0.265), 30-day morbidity (16.1 vs. 13.7%, p = 0.736), Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ 3 complications (2.4 vs 3.2%, p = 0.572), transfusions (0.8 vs. 4.0%, p = 0.219), and 30-day mortality (0.8 vs 0.8%, p = 1.000) were comparable for RLC and LLC, respectively. Median operative time was longer for RLC (296 min 260–340 vs. 245, 195–296, p < 0.0001). Early oral feeding, time to first flatus, and hospital stay were similar between groups. RLC has safety parameters as well as conversion to open surgery comparable with standard laparoscopy. Operative time is longer with the robotic approach.
Some Reflections About the Success and Bibliographic Impact of the Dynamic Geometry System GeoGebra
Authors: Roanes-Lozano Eugenio , Solano-Macías Carmen
Published: May 2023

The authors were surprised by the number of articles that used or cited the computer algebra system DERIVE more than 10 years after it was discontinued and developed a small bibliographic study about it, published in 2019. Now they address in a similar way the very successful dynamic geometry system GeoGebra that, although created 20 years ago, later than the other great dynamic geometry systems (Cabri Geometry II, The Geometer’s Sketchpad and Cinderella), has now dozens of millions of users around the world. Not surprisingly, the cites to GeoGebra in the well known bibliographic databases Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar show an impressive growth.
A Strong-Type Furstenberg–Sárközy Theorem for Sets of Positive Measure
Authors: Durcik Polona , Kovač Vjekoslav , Stipčić Mario
Published: May 2023

For every $$\beta \in (0,\infty )$$

β
∈
(
0
,
∞
)

, $$\beta \ne 1$$

β
≠
1

, we prove that a positive measure subset A of the unit square contains a point $$(x_0,y_0)$$

(

x
0

,

y
0

)

such that A nontrivially intersects curves $$y-y_0 = a (x-x_0)^\beta $$

y
-

y
0

=
a

(
x
-

x
0

)

β

for a whole interval $$I\subseteq (0,\infty )$$

I
⊆
(
0
,
∞
)

of parameters $$a\in I$$

a
∈
I

. A classical Nikodym set counterexample prevents one to take $$\beta =1$$

β
=
1

, which is the case of straight lines. Moreover, for a planar set A of positive density, we show that the interval I can be arbitrarily large on the logarithmic scale. These results can be thought of as Bourgain-style large-set variants of a recent continuous-parameter Sárközy-type theorem by Kuca, Orponen, and Sahlsten.
Unmet supportive care needs in families of children with chronic health conditions: an Australian cross-sectional study
Authors: Thomas Sangeetha , Byrne Linda K. , Ryan Nicholas P. , Hendrieckx Christel , White Victoria
Published: May 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to identify similarities and differences in the unmet supportive care needs (USCN) of families of children with major chronic health conditions (CHCs) using a universal need assessment tool.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey involving parents of children with congenital heart disease (CHD), type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D), cancer, and asthma diagnosed within the last 5 years recruited via social media and support organizations. Thirty-four items assessing the USCN across six domains (care needs, physical and social needs, informational needs, support needs, financial needs, child-related emotional needs) were responded to on a 4-point Likert scale [no need (1) to high need (4)]. Descriptive statistics identified the level of need, and linear regressions identified factors associated with higher need domain scores. Due to small numbers, the asthma group was excluded from comparisons across CHCs.

Results

One hundred and ninety-four parents completed the survey (CHD: n = 97, T1D: n = 50, cancer: n = 39, and asthma: n = 8). Parents of children with cancer were most likely to report at least one USCN (92%), followed by parents of children with T1D (62%). The five most commonly reported USCN across CHCs were drawn from four domains: child-related emotional, support, care, and financial. Three need items were included in the top five needs for all conditions. A higher USCN was associated with a greater frequency of hospital visits and the absence of parental support.

Conclusions

Using a universal need assessment tool, this is one of the first studies to characterize USCN in families of children diagnosed with common CHCs. While proportions endorsing different needs varied across conditions, the most endorsed needs were similar across the illness groups. This suggests that support programs or services could be shared across different CHCs.