bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathologic complete response of ductal carcinoma in situ to neoadjuvant systemic therapy in HER2-positive invasive breast cancer patients: a nationwide analysis
Authors: Ploumen Roxanne A. W. , Claassens Eva L. , Kooreman Loes F. S. , Keymeulen Kristien B. M. I. , van Kats Maartje A. C. E. , Gommers Suzanne , Siesling Sabine , van Nijnatten Thiemo J. A. , Smidt Marjolein L.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is present in more than half of HER2-positive invasive breast cancer (IBC). Recent studies show that DCIS accompanying HER2-positive IBC can be completely eradicated by neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST). Our aim was to determine the percentage of pathologic complete response of the DCIS component in a nationwide cohort and to assess associated clinicopathologic variables. Furthermore, the impact on surgical treatment after NST was investigated.

Methods

Women diagnosed with HER2-positive IBC, treated with NST and surgery, between 2010 and 2020, were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Pre-NST biopsy and postoperative pathology reports were obtained from the Dutch Nationwide Pathology Databank and assessed for the presence of DCIS. Clinicopathologic factors associated with DCIS response were assessed using logistic regression analyses.

Results

A DCIS component was present in the pre-NST biopsy in 1403 (25.1%) of 5598 included patients. Pathologic complete response of the DCIS component was achieved in 730 patients (52.0%). Complete response of DCIS occurred more frequently in case of complete response of IBC (63.4% versus 33.8%, p < 0.001). ER-negative IBC (OR 1.79; 95%CI 1.33–2.42) and more recent years of diagnosis (2014–2016 OR 1.60; 95%CI 1.17–2.19, 2017–2019 OR 1.76; 95%CI 1.34–2.34) were associated with DCIS response. Mastectomy rates were higher in IBC+DCIS compared to IBC (53.6% versus 41.0%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pathologic complete response of DCIS occurred in 52.0% of HER2-positive IBC patients and was associated with ER-negative IBC and more recent years of diagnosis. Future studies should investigate imaging evaluation of DCIS response to improve surgical decision making.
Does International Environmental Certification Change Local Production and Trade Practices? A Case Study of Shrimp Farming in Southern Vietnam
Authors: Watanabe Hiroki , Ubukata Fumikazu
Published: July 2023

Studies on international environmental certification (IEC) have primarily focused on how certification can sustainably “upgrade” local production and trading practices. However, not many studies view this market-based governance process from the perspective of local practices and location-specific factors. This study therefore examines how the upstream of the local supply chain influenced global interventions through the case of certification for shrimp farming in the mangroves of southern Vietnam. To clarify various aspects of these interactions, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the provincial government, NGOs, a trading company, shrimp farmers, and middlemen. The results revealed that IEC did not affect local production practices and only partially influenced trade practices. The implementation of IEC was thus at the mercy of the robustness of local society, which was attributed to unique agroecology, production systems, and upstream customary economic practices.
Billiard in a rotating half-plane
Authors: Kryzhevich Sergey , Plakhov Alexander
Published: July 2023

The main objective of this research is to study the properties of a billiard system in an unbounded domain with moving boundary. We consider a system consisting of an infinite rod (a straight line) and a ball (a massless point) on the plane. The rod rotates uniformly around one of its points and experiences elastic collisions with the ball. We define a mathematical model for the dynamics of such a system and write down asymptotic formulae for its motions. In particular, we determine existence and uniqueness of solutions. We find all possible grazing impacts of the ball. Besides, we demonstrate that for almost every initial condition, the ball goes to infinity exponentially fast, with the time intervals between neighboring collisions tending to zero. The approach developed in this paper is an original combination of methods of Billiards and Vibro-Impact Dynamics. It could be a base for studying more complicated systems of similar types.
Culturally Diverse Societies and Genital Cutting Controversies
Authors: Townsend Kate Goldie
Published: July 2023

We are all always culturally embedded. But some people in Western multicultural societies are treated as though they are more affected by cultural norms than others (Williams, in: Minorities within minorities, Cambridge University Press, 2005. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511490224.002; Kukathus in Political Theory 20: 105–139, 1992. ; Shahvisi in International Journal of Impotence Research, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-021-00514-8; Galeotti in Constellations 14: 91–111, 2007. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8675.2007.00424.x, in European Journal of Political Theory 14: 277–296, 2015; Townsend in Philosophy & Social Criticism 46: 878–898, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1177/0191453719854212, in: The child’s right to genital integrity:Protecting the child, resisting harmful practices, and enabling sexual autonomy, 2021a. http://hdl.handle.net/10871/125329, in International Journalof Impotence Research, 2021b. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-021-00503-x). Members of marginalised cultural groups are treated as more ‘driven’ by culture than their dominant cultural group member counterparts (Honig, in: Is multiculturalism bad for women? Princeton University Press, 1999. https://doi.org/10.1515/9781400840991-005). I focus on the treatment of genital cutting and modification practices conducted by diverse groups in contemporary Western societies and argue that they should all be understood as culturally ‘influenced’ as reported by Chambers (Sex, culture, and justice: The limits of choice, Penn State University Press, 2008). Further, different legal and moral treatment of genital cutting and modification practices within Western liberal societies is a form of cultural discrimination that hinders productive intercultural dialogue and the integration of diverse groups. I argue that policy on genital cutting and modification should be the same across groups to reduce socio-cultural disadvantage and enable smoother integration in Western democracies.
Life cycle assessment of an integrated xylitol biorefinery with value-added co-products
Authors: Vollmer Nikolaus I. , Gargalo Carina L. , Gernaey Krist V. , Olsen Stig I. , Sin Gürkan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This manuscript comprises a detailed life cycle assessment of an integrated xylitol biorefinery with value-added co-products. The biorefinery utilizes wheat straw as lignocellulosic feedstock and employs bio-based processes to produce xylitol as the main product and succinic acid as a co-product. The biorefinery was conceptually designed in an optimization-based framework and assessed through a techno-economic analysis published in the authors’ prior publications.

Methods

The goal is to determine the environmental impacts of the xylitol biorefinery and to compare the effects of bio-based production in the biorefinery to the current chemical production processes of xylitol. The scope is set as cradle-to-gate to allow a direct comparison of the chemical processes. The presented life cycle assessment was performed according to the standardized ISO procedure.

Results

The reference unit is related to the feedstock as multiple products are produced, and an economic allocation is chosen. The life cycle inventory is based on secondary data from process simulations stemming from earlier published work. The impact assessment is performed with the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint H V1.05 method and the IMPACT2002 + method since the available data of the life cycle assessment for the chemical processes was obtained with the latter. The characterization of the impacts shows high impacts for the terrestrial, marine, and human carcinogenic toxicity impact categories and a comparatively low impact on global warming.

Conclusions

The results are interpreted and assessed with an additional sensitivity analysis. Furthermore, the results are compared with the two chemical production processes. The comparison shows lower impacts of the xylitol biorefinery compared to the standard chemical production process but slightly higher impacts compared to the proprietary production process of DuPont, which employs a high level of process integration. These results are further discussed and contextualized.
Patient centered radiology: investigating 3 Tesla whole body MRI acceptance in cancer patients
Authors: Rossi Alice , Prochowski Iamurri Andrea , Diano Danila , Oboldi Devil , Sintuzzi Emanuele , Maurizio Laghi , Andalò Alice , Cavallucci Martina , Ferroni Fabio , Amadori Elena , Barone Domenico , Petralia Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Whole body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) is a promising emerging imaging technology for detecting bone and soft tissue pathology, especially in the onco-hematological field. This study aims to evaluate cancer patients' experience of WB-MRI performed on a 3T scanner compared to other diagnostic total body examinations.

Material and method

In this prospective committee-approved study, patients completed a questionnaire in person (n = 134) after undergoing a WB-MRI scan to collect data on their physical and psychological reactions during the scan, the global satisfaction level, and preference for other types of MRI or computed tomography (CT), or positron emission tomography (PET/CT). Of all patients who had performed a CT or PET/CT the previous year, 61.9% had already undergone an MRI. The most common symptoms reported were: 38.1% perceived a localized increase in temperature and 34.4% numbness and tingling of the limbs. The scan time averaged 45 min and was well tolerated by most patients (112, 85.5%). Overall, WB-MRI was appreciated by the majority (121/134—90.3%) of patients who said they would probably undergo the procedure again. Patients preferred the WB-MRI in 68.7% of cases (92/134), followed by CT in 15.7% of cases (21/134) and by PET/CT in 7.4% (10/134), with 8.4% (11/134) of patients without any preference. The preference for imaging modalities was age-dependent (p = 0.011), while (p > 0.05) was independent of sex and a primary cancer site.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate a high degree of WB-MRI acceptance from a patient's point of view.
Opening the human spirit to sustainability transformation: the potential for individual human–nature resonance and integrative rituals
Authors: Müller Susanne , Artmann Martina , Surrey Caroline
Published: July 2023

Urgent calls by the younger generation and the scientific community to approach sustainability only seem to scratch the surface of individuals’ awareness while ecological destruction moves forward. In this regard, current dominant mindsets claiming a human–nature separation appear to hamper change by not granting nature dignity and her own voice. Therefore, the scientific community is inviting us to embrace Indigenous ontologies and an overall spiritual connectedness with nature in our lives. Yet, in times of crisis, it is unclear how individuals can overcome prevailing mind-action gaps—and instead turn towards sustainable caring human–nature relationships. Against this background, this conceptual paper elaborates, in a first step, individual human–nature resonance as a relational integrative framework to study psychological transformation processes and their supporting capabilities. In a second step, a ritual-based intervention is elaborated to nurture the quality of this relationship between human and nonhuman nature which is experientially enriched with insights from psychotherapy. Transdisciplinary research in the form of self-experience completes the research process. Eventually, we plead for openness in favor of adopting “lived wholeness” as a solution for sustainability transformations—of ourselves, science, and our relationship with nonhuman nature.

Graphical abstract

Including icons (concept: Müller, design: Bongaerts; IOER 2022)
The Long-Term Outcomes of Mental Health First Aid Training for University Students
Authors: Lancaster Chloe , Sperandei Sandro , Saheb Rowena , Reis Arianne
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to address current gaps in the literature on the impacts of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training by comparing long-term outcomes on different cohorts. University students studying health and non-health degrees, university staff and community members who had completed MHFA within the past three years completed a survey to assess their mental health literacy, and their use of knowledge and skills acquired through the training. The study found few significant differences between the different group outcomes and between different time points post-completion of MHFA. This study found that although participant-reported measures show positive outcomes from MHFA, further research on the common tools used to rate mental health literacy and how mental health literacy impacts behaviours and help-seeking would provide greater insight into the outcomes of running MHFA as a mental health prevention and early intervention program at universities.
Derivation of heterogeneous material distributions and their sensitivity to HM-coupled two-phase flow models exemplified with the LASGIT experiment
Authors: Radeisen Eike , Shao Hua , Pitz Michael , Hesser Jürgen , Wang Wenqing
Published: July 2023

Advective gas transport in bentonite, a possible buffer material in repositories for radioactive materials, is difficult to simulate in numerical continuum models, partly due to the complicated microstructure of bentonite. To generate reliable models of repositories nevertheless, spatially distributed heterogeneous material properties can be used to allow localization of gas flow. In this study, a pore-size-dependent stochastic approach of the gas entry pressure is derived from Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry, which is used to replicate measurements from the LASGIT experiment. In addition, three benchmark tests are simulated to investigate the dependence of heterogeneous distributions of material properties on the mesh discretization, the temporal dependence, and the coupling between the processes influenced by the heterogeneous parameters. The numerical modeling results of the LASGIT experiment show that the onset of gas flow into the system and the subsequent increase in pressure and stress can be well reproduced using heterogeneous distributions. Compared to a model with homogeneous material properties, heterogeneous distributions may allow the generation of dilatancy-controlled microfractures—an important feature with regard to the advective gas flow in bentonites. However, it can be observed that the heterogeneous distributions in LASGIT are less significant, as technical gaps or differences in material types could have a greater impact.
MUC13 promotes the development of esophageal cancer by upregulating the expression of o-glycan process-related molecules
Authors: Han Yi , Chen Gang , Liu Shiyu , Zhou Guangqing , Xu Xinxin , Zhang Haihan , Li Zhentao , Wu Chuannan , Liu Yulan , Fang Kai , Chen Guangxia
Published: July 2023

Background

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, which is characterized by poor prognosis, aggressiveness, and poor survival. Mucin 13 (MUC13) is a member of the membrane-bound mucin and located on chromosome 3q21.2 and consists of α and β subunits. It has been found that MUC13 is overexpressed in a variety of tumor cells and acts a vital role in the invasiveness and malignant progression of several types of tumors. However, the role and regulatory mechanism of MUC13 in the progression of esophageal cancer remain unclear.

Methods

The expression level of MUC13 was detected in 15 esophageal cancer tissues and 15 pairs of adjacent nontumor tissues by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In addition, the expression of MUC13 mRNA level in human esophageal cancer cell lines (EC9706 and ECA109 and TE-1) was measured by qRT-PCR. In vitro, after silencing MUC13 with lentiviral interference technology, CCK8 assay, clone formation assay, and flow cytometry were applied to investigate the proliferation activity, clone formation ability and anti-apoptosis ability of EC9706 and ECA109 cells. The tumor xenograft growth assay was used to confirm the influence of MUC13 knockdown on the growth of esophageal tumors in vivo. The qRT-PCR assay and western blot experiments were taken to study the mechanism of MUC13 regulating the proproliferation and antiapoptotic of esophageal cancer.

Results

The results showed that MUC13 was overexpressed in esophageal cancer tissues and cell lines (EC9706 and ECA109 and TE-1), especially in EC9706 and ECA109 cells, but low expressed in human esophageal epithelial cell line (HEEC). Next, silencing MUC13 inhibits proliferation, blocks cell cycle progression, and promotes cell apoptosis in vitro, and restrains the growth of esophageal cancer tissues in vivo. Finally, MUC13 affects the proproliferation and antiapoptotic by regulating the expression of GLANT14, MUC3A, MUC1, MUC12, and MUC4 that closely related to O-glycan process.

Conclusions

This study proved that MUC13 is an important molecule that regulates the O-glycan process and then affects the progress of esophageal cancer. MUC13 may be a novel therapeutic target for patients with esophageal cancer.
Recurrence of bacteremia and infective endocarditis according to bacterial species of index endocarditis episode
Authors: Østergaard Lauge , Voldstedlund Marianne , Bruun Niels Eske , Bundgaard Henning , Iversen Kasper , Pries-Heje Mia Marie , Hadji-Turdeghal Katra , Graversen Peter L. , Moser Claus , Andersen Christian Østergaard , Søgaard Kirstine Kobberøe , Køber Lars , Fosbøl Emil Loldrup
Published: July 2023

Purpose

In patients surviving infective endocarditis (IE) recurrence of bacteremia or IE is feared. However, knowledge is sparse on the incidence and risk factors for the recurrence of bacteremia or IE.

Methods

Using Danish nationwide registries (2010–2020), we identified patients with first-time IE which were categorized by bacterial species (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., coagulase-negative staphylococci [CoNS], ‘Other’ microbiological etiology). Recurrence of bacteremia (including IE episodes) or IE with the same bacterial species was estimated at 12 months and 5 years, considering death as a competing risk. Cox regression models were used to compute adjusted hazard ratios of the recurrence of bacteremia or IE.

Results

We identified 4086 patients with IE; 1374 (33.6%) with S. aureus, 813 (19.9%) with Enterococcus spp., 1366 (33.4%) with Streptococcus spp., 284 (7.0%) with CoNS, and 249 (6.1%) with ‘Other’. The overall 12-month incidence of recurrent bacteremia with the same bacterial species was 4.8% and 2.6% with an accompanying IE diagnosis, while this was 7.7% and 4.0%, respectively, with 5 years of follow-up. S. aureus, Enterococcus spp., CoNS, chronic renal failure, and liver disease were associated with an increased rate of recurrent bacteremia or IE with the same bacterial species.

Conclusion

Recurrent bacteremia with the same bacterial species within 12 months, occurred in almost 5% and 2.6% for recurrent IE. S. aureus, Enterococcus spp., and CoNS were associated with recurrent infections with the same bacterial species.
Form and Function: Learning Anatomy Using Ultrasound
Authors: Correia Janine C. , Meyer Ilse , McNamee Lakshini
Published: July 2023

Ultrasound (US) is increasingly used across medical specialities as a diagnostic tool and medical faculties are therefore further incorporating imaging into their programmes. Using US within undergraduate instruction has several benefits. US, as a learning instrument, may strengthen existing anatomical knowledge and improve visual understanding of anatomy. The cost-effectiveness, as well as portability of the US, makes it a valuable means to add to traditional anatomy teaching modalities. Furthermore, students have an opportunity to develop skills in interpreting US images and this may add a different element to the learning of anatomy. This study aimed to explore undergraduate clinical anatomy students’ perceptions of the use of US as an add-on to cadaveric dissection. Students were invited to participate in virtual focus group discussions. Three virtual focus group discussions were conducted, and 11 participants volunteered to take part. Thematic analysis of the data generated six themes. These are described as the study of living anatomy, learning cross-sectional anatomy, enhanced relevance of anatomy learning, increased interest in anatomy, instructional design, and the affective and technical experience of using US. The results suggest that it is feasible and advantageous to implement US sessions as an add-on to the teaching of anatomy during practical dissection sessions of clinical anatomy students. The use of innovative technologies such as US enhances the interest of students and allows them to develop dexterity and competencies in their learning process.
Simulation for Teaching on Racial Microaggressions and Bystander Intervention — A Theory-Based Guide for Health Profession Education
Authors: Dada T. , Laughey W.
Published: July 2023

Microaggressions are words or behaviour that “subtly and unconsciously express a prejudiced attitude”, and racial microaggressions express these attitudes towards people from racial minority groups. The “Bystander Effect” is when the presence of other people means that an individual is less likely to offer assistance or get involved in a situation — bystander intervention training aims to inform about the best ways to avoid this, equipping students with the necessary strategies. In health profession education, teaching on microaggressions and bystander intervention can be done with the use of simulation. Simulated patients (SPs) and environments would be the most appropriate modality of simulation to use, as roleplay would be central. This guide focuses on how to use simulation for teaching on racial microaggressions and bystander training for healthcare students including tips on preparing the students and SPs, planning for the implementation of the simulation training, setting ground rules, showing different scenarios, checking student understanding throughout, using debriefs and course evaluation feedback, and signposting students to available support afterwards. These are topics which are particularly relevant because there have been calls in recent years for healthcare education to be more inclusive and representative of current issues, as the COVID-19 pandemic and resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement have highlighted curriculum gaps. So teaching students about this early is a good start, and simulation is an effective teaching method to help with this.
Ligand Engineering in Tin-Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Peizhou , Cao Xiangrong , Li Jingrui , Jiao Bo , Hou Xun , Hao Feng , Ning Zhijun , Bian Zuqiang , Xi Jun , Ding Liming , Wu Zhaoxin , Dong Hua
Published: July 2023

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted aggressive attention in the photovoltaic field in light of the rapid increasing power conversion efficiency. However, their large-scale application and commercialization are limited by the toxicity issue of lead (Pb). Among all the lead-free perovskites, tin (Sn)-based perovskites have shown potential due to their low toxicity, ideal bandgap structure, high carrier mobility, and long hot carrier lifetime. Great progress of Sn-based PSCs has been realized in recent years, and the certified efficiency has now reached over 14%. Nevertheless, this record still falls far behind the theoretical calculations. This is likely due to the uncontrolled nucleation states and pronounced Sn (IV) vacancies. With insights into the methodologies resolving both issues, ligand engineering-assisted perovskite film fabrication dictates the state-of-the-art Sn-based PSCs. Herein, we summarize the role of ligand engineering during each state of film fabrication, ranging from the starting precursors to the ending fabricated bulks. The incorporation of ligands to suppress Sn2+ oxidation, passivate bulk defects, optimize crystal orientation, and improve stability is discussed, respectively. Finally, the remained challenges and perspectives toward advancing the performance of Sn-based PSCs are presented. We expect this review can draw a clear roadmap to facilitate Sn-based PSCs via ligand engineering.
Grenzfiguren in Tiergedichten
Authors: Tokas Dafni
Published: July 2023

In Das Tier, das ich also bin (2006) beschreibt Jacques Derrida, dass die Idee des Menschen sich auf der Grundlage von Grenzen konstruiert, die Menschen selbst entwerfen und nähren. Derrida versteht Limitrophie als Pluralisierung solcher Grenzen sowie der darin enthaltenen Lebewesen. Der vorliegende Beitrag arbeitet in mehreren Fallstudien heraus, wie sich Limitrophie in diesem Sinne in der zeitgenössischen deutschsprachigen Lyrik äußert. Dabei wird nachgewiesen, dass die Texttiere sich Vereindeutigungen entziehen, indem sie – durch ihr Handeln oder ihr Wahrgenommenwerden im Gedicht – physische, politische, symbolische oder ideologische Dichotomien verkomplizieren und infrage stellen. Demarkationslinien zwischen Menschen und Nichtmenschen werden damit zwar nicht aufgehoben, aber in ihrer Absolutheit verunsichert.
A CSR-based visible and infrared image fusion method in low illumination conditions for sense and avoid
Authors: Ma N. , Cao Y. , Zhang Z. , Fan Y. , Ding M.
Published: July 2023

Machine vision has been extensively researched in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) recently. However, the ability of Sense and Avoid (SAA) largely limited by environmental visibility, which brings hazards to flight safety in low illumination or nighttime conditions. In order to solve this critical problem, an approach of image enhancement is proposed in this paper to improve image qualities in low illumination conditions. Considering the complementarity of visible and infrared images, a visible and infrared image fusion method based on convolutional sparse representation (CSR) is a promising solution to improve the SAA ability of UAVs. Firstly, the source image is decomposed into a texture layer and structure layer since infrared images are good at characterising structural information, and visible images have richer texture information. Both the structure and the texture layers are transformed into the sparse convolutional domain through the CSR mechanism, and then CSR coefficient mapping are fused via activity level assessment. Finally, the image is synthesised through the reconstruction results of the fusion texture and structure layers. In the experimental simulation section, a series of visible and infrared registered images including aerial targets are adopted to evaluate the proposed algorithm. Experimental results demonstrates that the proposed method increases image qualities in low illumination conditions effectively and can enhance the object details, which has better performance than traditional methods.
Economic globalization and the fracturing of business interest representation in the European Union
Authors: Hanegraaff Marcel , Poletti Arlo , Aizenberg Ellis
Published: July 2023

Individual firms have become the dominant lobby actors in the European Union, while associational business interest representation has declined. This is alarming because individual firms tend to overlook the long-term interests of society by focusing on what is important in the short term for their own survival. How can we explain this trend? This article argues that globalization is a key driver of firm-level lobbying and that it fractures business interest representation. The study employs an original dataset of almost 14,000 lobby contacts between senior staff of the European Commission, business interests, and NGOs. It finds support for the argument that globalization spurs individual firm lobbying in the European Union. This complicates the already challenging task of business associations aggregating and channeling the interests of their members.
Bohr sets in sumsets II: countable abelian groups
Authors: Griesmer John T. , Le Anh N. , Lê Thái Hoàng
Published: July 2023

We prove three results concerning the existence of Bohr sets in threefold sumsets. More precisely, letting G be a countable discrete abelian group and

$\phi _1, \phi _2, \phi _3: G \to G$

be commuting endomorphisms whose images have finite indices, we show that

(1)

If

$A \subset G$

has positive upper Banach density and

$\phi _1 + \phi _2 + \phi _3 = 0$

, then

$\phi _1(A) + \phi _2(A) + \phi _3(A)$

contains a Bohr set. This generalizes a theorem of Bergelson and Ruzsa in

$\mathbb {Z}$

and a recent result of the first author.

(2)

For any partition

$G = \bigcup _{i=1}^r A_i$

, there exists an

$i \in \{1, \ldots , r\}$

such that

$\phi _1(A_i) + \phi _2(A_i) - \phi _2(A_i)$

contains a Bohr set. This generalizes a result of the second and third authors from

$\mathbb {Z}$

to countable abelian groups.

(3)

If

$B, C \subset G$

have positive upper Banach density and

$G = \bigcup _{i=1}^r A_i$

is a partition,

$B + C + A_i$

contains a Bohr set for some

$i \in \{1, \ldots , r\}$

. This is a strengthening of a theorem of Bergelson, Furstenberg and Weiss.

All results are quantitative in the sense that the radius and rank of the Bohr set obtained depends only on the indices

$[G:\phi _j(G)]$

, the upper Banach density of A (in (1)), or the number of sets in the given partition (in (2) and (3)).
How Authoritarianism Transforms: A Framework for the Study of Digital Dictatorship
Authors: Schlumberger Oliver , Edel Mirjam , Maati Ahmed , Saglam Koray
Published: July 2023

While digital technologies have induced profound global transformations, political scientists often lack the analytical tools to grasp their effects on politics. In particular, digitization's impact on dictatorships remains not only empirically understudied, but seriously under-conceptualized. How do new technological possibilities affect autocratic politics? This contribution starts from the inner logic of authoritarianism rather than from technical innovation. It first maps the ways in which autocrats employ various digital technologies to maintain power. This helps us identify seven core areas where dictatorial politics are transformed by the use of new tools. We delineate the key characteristics of these areas of change and conclude that, in their sum, technologically induced transformations significantly alter the nature of dictatorship if and when it is digitized.
Air entrapment at impact of a conus onto a liquid
Authors: Carrat J.-B. , Gavrilov N. , Cherdantsev A. , Shmakova N. , Ermanyuk E.
Published: July 2023

In this experimental work, a conus impacts a deep liquid pool at a speed varying from 1.3 to

$19.0\ {\rm cm}\ {\rm s}^{-1}$

. Two liquids (2.5 % butanol–water solution or distilled water) and four coni made from duralumin with a diameter of 180 mm and different deadrise angles

$\beta$

(

$2^{\circ }$

,

$3^{\circ }$

,

$4^{\circ }$

and 5

$^{\circ }$

) are tested. An air cushion is trapped between the conus solid surface and the liquid. Several types of bubble patterns after the collapse of the air cushion are observed: one or multiple bubbles near the conus centre (vertex), irregular trails of bubbles on the conus surface and a ring of bubbles in a ‘necklace’-shaped arrangement. With a total internal reflection set-up and appropriate image post-processing, the external and internal radii of the ring-shaped wetted area are estimated for each frame. The external (internal) radius increases (decreases) in time following a linear (exponential) law. The speed of the outer border of the wetted area is in agreement with the Wagner theory for a body impacting onto a liquid. The initial radius of the annular touchdown region is estimated as the intersection of the relevant fitting curves. In the studied range of parameters, the initial radius obeys a universal scaling law, which follows from the air–water lubrication–inertia balance.
Resonant triad interactions of gravity waves in cylindrical basins
Authors: Durey Matthew , Milewski Paul A.
Published: July 2023

We present the results of a theoretical investigation into the existence, evolution and excitation of resonant triads of nonlinear free-surface gravity waves confined to a cylinder of finite depth. It is well known that resonant triads are impossible for gravity waves in laterally unbounded domains; we demonstrate, however, that horizontal confinement of the fluid may induce resonant triads for particular fluid depths. For any three correlated wave modes arising in a cylinder of arbitrary cross-section, we prove necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a depth at which nonlinear resonance may arise, and show that the resultant critical depth is unique. We enumerate the low-frequency triads for circular cylinders, including a new class of resonances between standing and counter-propagating waves, and also briefly discuss annular and rectangular cylinders. Upon deriving the triad amplitude equations for a finite-depth cylinder of arbitrary cross-section, we deduce that the triad evolution is always periodic, and determine parameters controlling the efficiency of energy exchange. In order to excite a particular triad, we explore the influence of external forcing; in this case, the triad evolution may be periodic, quasi-periodic or chaotic. Finally, our results have potential implications on resonant water waves in man-made and natural basins, such as industrial-scale fluid tanks, harbours and bays.
Mind the gap: limited knowledge of carbohydrate guidelines for competition in an international cohort of endurance athletes
Authors: Sampson Gemma , Morton James P. , Areta Jose L.
Published: July 2023

Despite the well-documented role of carbohydrate (CHO) in promoting endurance exercise performance, endurance athletes typically fail to meet current recommendations in competition. Adequate nutrition knowledge is key to drive athletes’ behaviour, but the current level of knowledge in this population is not known. The present study assessed knowledge of CHO for competition in an international cohort of endurance athletes using the Carbohydrates for Endurance Athletes in Competition Questionnaire (CEAC-Q). The CEAC-Q was completed by 1016 individuals (45 % female), from the United Kingdom (40 %), Australia/New Zealand (22 %), the United States of America/Canada (18 %) and other countries (21 %). Total CEAC-Q scores were 50 ± 20 % (mean ± sd), with no differences in scores between the five subsections (10 ± 5 points, P < 0⋅001). Based on typical knowledge and frequency of correct answers, we defined questions with low (0–39 %), moderate (40–69 %) and high (70–100 %) knowledge at a population level. Knowledge deficiencies were identified in questions related to CHO metabolism (Low: 2 out of 5 questions (2/5), Moderate: 3/5), CHO-loading (Low: 2/5, Moderate: 1/5), pre-event CHO (Low: 2/5, Moderate: 2/5), CHO during exercise (Moderate: 4/5) and CHO for recovery (Low: 3/5, Moderate: 1/5). Current CHO amounts recommendations were identified correctly for CHO-loading, pre-competition meal, during competition >2⋅5 h) and post-competition recovery by 28% (Low), 45 % (Moderate), 48 % (Moderate), and 29 % (Low), respectively. Our findings indicate that endurance athletes typically have limited knowledge of carbohydrate guidelines for competition, and we identify specific knowledge gaps that can guide targeted nutrition education to improve knowledge as an initial step towards optimal dietary practice.
The repayment of financial debt: some mathematical considerations
Authors: Stubbs John , Adetunji Jacob
Published: July 2023

This paper focuses on the mathematics behind the repayment of financial debt. The availability of credit, the inevitable accompaniment of which is debt, is an essential component of a monetised economy. Without it most people would not be able to purchase large items like homes, cars and other expensive consumer durables. Businesses would not expand and prosper without access to credit. However, the debt incurred by the availability of credit can also bring huge stress, and indeed distress, from personal and commercial insolvencies to the inhumanities of debt bondage associated with modern-day slavery and human trafficking. The historical origins of debt lie in antiquity and even pre-date the existence of monetised economies [1].
The lost boarding pass problem: converse results
Authors: Kubo Shohei , Nakata Toshio , Shiraishi Naoki
Published: July 2023

This Article is a follow-up to a recent Gazette Article about the lost boarding pass problem by Grimmett and Stirzaker [1]. According to their book [2, 1.8.39, p. 10], it seems that they recognised this lovely problem in 2000 or earlier. We quote it with suitable minor changes.
A graph related to the Euler ø function
Authors: Ghanbari Nima , Alikhani Saeid
Published: July 2023

In mathematics, graph theory is the study of graphs, which are mathematical structures used to model pairwise relations between objects. A graph G is a pair G = (V, E), where V and E are the vertex set and the edge set of G, respectively. The order and size of G is the number of vertices and edges of G, respectively. The degree or valency of a vertex u in a graph G (loopless), denoted by deg (u), is the number of edges meeting at u. If, for every vertex ν in G, deg (ν) = k, we say that G is a k-regular graph. The cycle of order n is denoted by Cn and is a connected 2-regular graph. The path graph of order n is denoted by Pn and obtain by deleting an edge of Cn. A tree is an undirected graph in which any two vertices are connected by exactly one path, or equivalently a connected undirected graph without cycle. A leaf (or pendant vertex) of a tree is a vertex of the tree of degree 1. An edge of a graph is said to be pendant if one of its vertices is a pendant vertex. A complete bipartite graph is a graph G with and such that every vertex of the set (part) X is connected to every vertex of the set (part) Y. If , then this graph is denoted by Km,n. The complete bipartite graph K1,n is called the star graph which has n + 1 vertices. The distance between two vertices u and ν of G, denoted by d (u, ν), is defined as the minimum number of edges of the walks between them. The complement of graph G is denoted by and is a graph with the same vertices such that two distinct vertices of are adjacent if, and only if, they are not adjacent in G. For more information on graphs, refer to [1].
Climate variability in the northern Levant from the highly resolved Qadisha record (Lebanon) during the Holocene optimum
Authors: Nehme Carole , Verheyden Sophie , Kluge Tobias , Nader Fadi H. , Edwards R. Lawrence , Cheng Hai , Eiche Elisabeth , Claeys Philippe
Published: July 2023

New stalagmites from Qadisha Cave (Lebanon) located at 1720 m above sea level provide a high-resolution and well-dated record for northern Mount Lebanon. The stalagmites grew discontinuously from 9.2 to 5.7 and at 3.5 ka, and they show a tendency to move from a more negative oxygen isotope signal at ~9.1 ka to a more positive signal at ~5.8 ka. Such a trend reflects a change from a wetter to a drier climate at high altitudes. The δ13C signal shows rapid shifts throughout the record and a decreasing trend toward more negative values in the mid-Holocene, suggesting enhanced soil activity. In the short-term trend, Qadisha stalagmites record rapid dry/wet changes on centennial scales, with a tendency to more rapid dry events toward the mid-Holocene. Such changes are characterized by overall good agreement between both geochemical proxies and stalagmite growth and might be affected by the seasonal variations in snow cover. The Qadisha record is in good agreement with other Levantine records, showing more humid conditions from 9 to 7 ka. After 7 ka, a drier climate seems to affect sites at both low- and high-altitude areas. The Qadisha record reflects uniquely mountainous climate characteristics compared with other records, specifically the effect of snow cover and its duration regulating the effective infiltration.
Within- and between-host dynamics of producer and non-producer pathogens
Authors: Pike Victoria L. , Stevens Emily J. , Griffin Ashleigh S. , King Kayla C.
Published: July 2023

For infections to be maintained in a population, pathogens must compete to colonize hosts and transmit between them. We use an experimental approach to investigate within-and-between host dynamics using the pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosaand the animal hostCaenorhabditis elegans.Within-host interactions can involve the production of goods that are beneficial to all pathogens in the local environment but susceptible to exploitation by non-producers. We exposed the nematode host to ‘producer’ and two ‘non-producer’ bacterial strains (specifically for siderophore production and quorum sensing), in single infections and coinfections, to investigate within-host colonization. Subsequently, we introduced infected nematodes to pathogen-naive populations to allow natural transmission between hosts. We find that producer pathogens are consistently better at colonizing hosts and transmitting between them than non-producers during coinfection and single infection. Non-producers were poor at colonizing hosts and between-host transmission, even when coinfecting with producers. Understanding pathogen dynamics across these multiple levels will ultimately help us predict and control the spread of infections, as well as contribute to explanations for the persistence of cooperative genotypes in natural populations.
Neurodevelopmental vulnerability to psychosis: developmentally-based methods enable detection of early life inhibitory control deficits that predict psychotic-like experiences at the transition to adolescence
Authors: Zarubin Vanessa C. , Damme Katherine S. F. , Vargas Teresa , Osborne K. Juston , Norton Elizabeth S. , Briggs-Gowan Margaret , Allen Norrina B. , Wakschlag Laurie , Mittal Vijay A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Inhibitory control develops in early childhood, and atypical development may be a measurable marker of risk for the later development of psychosis. Additionally, inhibitory control may be a target for intervention.

Methods

Behavioral performance on a developmentally appropriate Go/No-Go task including a frustration manipulation completed by children ages 3–5 years (early childhood; n = 107) was examined in relation to psychotic-like experiences (PLEs; ‘tween’; ages 9–12), internalizing symptoms, and externalizing symptoms self-reported at long-term follow-up (pre-adolescence; ages 8–11). ERP N200 amplitude for a subset of these children (n = 34) with electrophysiological data during the task was examined as an index of inhibitory control.

Results

Children with lower accuracy on No-Go trials compared to Go trials in early childhood (F(1,101) = 3.976, p = 0.049), evidenced higher PLEs at the transition to adolescence 4–9 years later, reflecting a specific deficit in inhibitory control. No association was observed with internalizing or externalizing symptoms. Decreased accuracy during the frustration manipulation predicted higher internalizing, F(2,202) = 5.618, p = 0.004, and externalizing symptoms, F(2,202) = 4.663, p = 0.010. Smaller N200 amplitudes were observed on No-Go trials for those with higher PLEs, F(1,101) = 6.075, p = 0.020; no relationship was observed for internalizing or externalizing symptoms.

Conclusions

Long-term follow-up demonstrates for the first time a specific deficit in inhibitory control behaviorally and electrophysiology, for individuals who later report more PLEs. Decreases in task performance under frustration induction indicated risk for internalizing and externalizing symptoms. These findings suggest that pathophysiological mechanisms for psychosis are relevant and discriminable in early childhood, and further, suggest an identifiable and potentially modifiable target for early intervention.
COVID-19 concerns among caregivers and vitamin A supplementation coverage among children aged 6–59 months in four countries in Western sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Baker Melissa M , Janmohamed Amynah , Toure Djeinam , Dissieka Romance , Ndiaye Fatou , Khassanova Regina , Fofana Mohamed Lamine , Doledec David
Published: July 2023

Objective:

To assess child vitamin A supplementation (VAS) coverage in 2019 and 2020 and explore key factors, including COVID-19 concerns, that influenced VAS status in four sub-Saharan African countries.

Design:

Data from eight representative household surveys were used to assess VAS coverage. Multivariable logistic regression models examined the effect of rural/urban residence, child sex and age, caregiver education, COVID-19 concern and household wealth on VAS status.

Setting:

Nine (2019) and 12 (2020) districts in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea and Mali.

Participants:

28 283 caregivers of children aged 6–59 months.

Results:

Between 2019 and 2020, VAS coverage increased in Burkina Faso (82·2–93·1 %), Côte d’Ivoire (90·3–93·3 %) and Mali (76·1–79·3 %) and decreased in Guinea (86·0 % to 81·7 %). Rural children had a higher likelihood of VAS uptake compared with urban children in Burkina Faso (adjusted OR (aOR) = 4·22; 95 % CI: 3·11, 5·72), Côte d’Ivoire (aOR = 5·19; 95 % CI: 3·10, 8·70) and Mali (aOR = 1·41; 95 % CI: 1·15, 1·74). Children aged 12–59 months had a higher likelihood of VAS uptake compared with children aged 6–11 months in Côte d’Ivoire (aOR = 1·67; 95 % CI: 1·12, 2·48) and Mali (aOR = 1·74; 95 % CI: 1·34, 2·26). Moderate-to-high COVID-19 concern was associated with a lower likelihood of VAS uptake in Côte d’Ivoire (aOR = 0·55; 95 % CI: 0·37, 0·80).

Conclusion:

The increase in VAS coverage from 2019 to 2020 suggests that COVID-19 concerns may not have limited VAS uptake in some African countries, though geographic inequities should be considered.
Single- and dual-source-strength focal boost planning in low-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy: feasibility study
Authors: Clark A. K. , Wright G. , Mason J. , Hulson O. , Henry A. , Rodda S. , Bownes P.
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

This study investigates the dose escalation to dominant intra-prostatic lesions (DILs) that is achievable using single-source-strength (SSS) and dual-source-strength (DSS) low-dose-rate (LDR) prostate brachytherapy and a sector-based plan approach.

Methods:

Twenty patients were retrospectively analysed. Image registration and planning were undertaken using VariSeed v9·0. SSS and DSS boost plans were produced and compared to clinical plans. Dosimetric robustness to seed displacement for SSS and DSS plans was compared to clinical plans using Monte Carlo simulations.

Results:

Fourteen out of 20 patients had DIL identifiable on magnetic resonance imaging. Median increase in sector D90 of 27% (p < 0·0001) and sector V150 of 31% (p < 0·0001) was achieved with SSS planning without exceeding local rectum and urethra dose constraints. DSS plans achieved dose distributions not statistically significantly different from the SSS plans with a median of eight fewer seeds and two fewer needles. SSS and DSS plan sensitivity to random seed displacement was similar to the clinical plans.

Conclusions:

Treatment planning using VariSeed to produce SSS and DSS focal boost plans is feasible for LDR prostate brachytherapy to achieve a median escalation in sector D90 of 27% without exceeding local urethral and rectal constraints. SSS and DSS plan dosimetric robustness was similar to clinical plan dosimetric robustness.