bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QSandbox: The Agile Quantum Software Sandbox
Authors: Exman Iaakov
Published: August 2024

QSandbox is an agile software sandbox specifically designed for Quantum Software research and development. QSandbox agility goes beyond the System Under Development within the sandbox. QSandbox agility is itself modifiable since its high-level modules are varied at will by Quantum Software developers.

QSandbox has a series of unique features suitable for agile development. It uses high-level abstraction meaningful modules, instead of low-level quantum gates of conventional simulators. It has instantly synchronized dual views—high-level quantum circuit and density matrix. It has uniform quantum and classical representation, implying the innovative idea of quantum circuits for classical software.
Quantum Software Quality Metrics
Authors: Cruz-Lemus José A. , Rodríguez Moisés , Barba-Rojas Raúl , Piattini Mario
Published: August 2024

Until now, the quality problems of quantum software have been largely ignored. This chapter analyzes the applicability of models and metrics for quantum software and, to mitigate this lack of attention to quality issues, presents a set of metrics that have been proposed and empirically validated to characterize the complexity of quantum circuits in terms of their understandability. The validation experiment design, execution, and results are reported. In addition, the main functionalities of a prototype tool that has been created for the automatic computation of the metrics are briefly presented.
Gender Equality and the Failure of Political Imagination: Lessons for Reframing in Uncertain Times
Authors: Johnson Carol
Published: August 2024

This chapter focuses on Australian government policy but also provides relevant international examples. The Australian Albanese government is committed to making Australia a world leader in gender equality again. However, it is attempting to do so in very difficult and uncertain times in which the government faces major social, economic, technological and climate change challenges. Furthermore, there is a backlash internationally in which gender issues are being mobilised to support authoritarian and radical right agendas. Meanwhile, culture war perspectives are impacting on Indigenous women’s rights. This chapter will explore some of the dilemmas that this and future Australian governments and governments internationally will face, from artificial intelligence to climate change. It will argue that gender equality policy has all too often been shaped by pre-existing policy frameworks designed to address other issues. Consequently, governments need to reassess and reimagine the policy frameworks they are using and this is even more important given the current and future challenges they face. At the same time, Australia, as a multicultural, settler-colonial society situated in the Asia–Pacific has some potentially interesting insights and lessons to offer, if Australian governments can seize the opportunity.
The Scars of the Eelam War: Eroded Trust in North-Eastern Sri Lanka
Authors: Li Jia , Ito Takahiro , Usoof-Thowfeek Ramila , Yamazaki Koji
Published: August 2024

This study explores the legacies of the protracted 1983–2009 Sri Lankan civil conflict using original household survey data. By differentiating individual- and household-level war exposure, voluntary and involuntary military service experience, and loss of family members of soldiers and civilians, we evaluated the influence of a wide array of war-time experiences on the trust level of people in war-torn regions. We found that civil conflict undermined political trust, and heightened inter as well as intra-ethnic divisions among the Sinhalese and Tamils in Sri Lanka. Thus, the Sri Lankan government needs to take action not only to restore political trust but also to promote reconciliation between the Sinhala and Tamil communities as well as within the Tamil community in war-torn regions.
Towards unpolarized GPDs from pseudo-distributions
Authors: Dutrieux Hervé , Edwards Robert G. , Egerer Colin , Karpie Joseph , Monahan Christopher , Orginos Kostas , Radyushkin Anatoly , Richards David , Romero Eloy , Zafeiropoulos Savvas ,   on behalf of the HadStruc collaboration
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We present an exploration of the unpolarized isovector proton generalized parton distributions (GPDs) Hu−d(x, ξ, t) and Eu−d(x, ξ, t) in the pseudo-distribution formalism using distillation. Taking advantage of the large kinematic coverage made possible by this approach, we present results on the moments of GPDs up to the order x3 — including their skewness dependence — at a pion mass mπ = 358 MeV and a lattice spacing a = 0.094 fm.
Scalar field perturbation of hairy black holes in EsGB theory
Authors: Hyun Young-Hwan , Latosh Boris , Park Miok
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We investigate scalar field perturbations of the hairy black holes involved with spontaneous symmetry breaking of the global U(1) symmetry in Einstein-scalar-Gauss-Bonnet theory for asymptotically flat spacetimes. We consider the mechanism that black holes without hairs become unstable at the critical point of the coupling constant and undergo a phase transition to hairy black holes in the symmetry-broken phase driven by spontaneous symmetry breaking. This transition occurs near the black hole horizon due to the diminishing influence of the Gauss-Bonnet term at infinity. To examine such process, we introduce a scalar field perturbation on the newly formed background spacetime. We solve the linearized perturbation equation using Green’s function method. We begin by solving the Green’s function, incorporating the branch cut contribution. This allows us to analytically investigate the late-time behavior of the perturbation at both spatial and null infinity. We found that the late-time behavior only differs from the Schwarzschild black hole by a mass term. We then proceed to calculate the quasinormal modes (QNMs) numerically, which arise from the presence of poles in the Green’s function. Our primary interest lies in utilizing QNMs to investigate the stability of the black hole solutions both the symmetric and symmetry-broken phases. Consistent with the prior study, our analysis shows that hairy black holes in the symmetric phase become unstable when the quadratic coupling constant exceeds a critical value for a fixed value of the quartic coupling constant. In contrast, hairy black holes in the symmetry-broken phase are always stable at the critical value. These numerical results provide strong evidence for a dynamical process that unstable black holes without hairs transition into stable hairy black holes in the symmetry-broken phase through the spontaneous symmetry breaking.
Hawking-Page and entanglement phase transition in 2d CFT on curved backgrounds
Authors: Miyata Akihiro , Nozaki Masahiro , Tamaoka Kotaro , Watanabe Masataka
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The thermodynamics and the entanglement properties of two-dimensional conformal field theories (2d CFTs) on curved backgrounds are studied. By means of conformal mapping we study the equivalent system on flat space governed by the deformed Hamiltonian, which is a spatial integral of the Hamiltonian density modulated by an enveloping function. Focusing on holographic CFTs, we observe Hawking-Page like phase transition for the thermal and the entanglement entropy as we vary the background metric. We also compute the mutual information to study the information theoretic correlation between parts of the curved spacetime. The gravity dual of 2d CFTs on curved background is also discussed.
Radiative transitions of χcJ → ψγ and χbj → Υγ
Authors: Pei Su-Yan , Li Wei , Wang Tianhong , Wang Guo-Li
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In the framework of instantaneous Bethe-Salpeter equation, according to the JPC of quarkonia, we find that their wave functions all contain multiple partial waves, rather than pure waves. In the radiative electromagnetic transitions χcJ→γψ and χbJ→γΥ (J = 0, 1, 2), the main wave of quarkonium gives the non-relativistic contribution, while other waves provide the relativistic corrections. Our results indicate that the relativistic effect of charmonium, especially highly excited states, is significant. Such as the relativistic effects of χcJ(2P) → γψ(1S) (J = 0, 1, 2) are {49.7%, 30.9%, 37.5%}, much larger than the corresponding {17.8%, 7.08%, 12.9%} of χbJ(2P) → γΥ(1S). The decay of χcJ(2P) → γψ can be used to distinguish between χc0(3860) and χc0(3915), which particle is the charmonium χc0(2P). Although our result of χc1(3872)→γψ(2S) is consistent with data, but the one of χc1(3872)→γψ(1S) is much larger than data, so whether χc1(3872) is the conventional χc1(2P) remains an open question. The undiscovered Υ(1D) and Υ(2D) have large production rates in decays of χb0(2P) → γΥ(1D) and χbJ(3P) → γΥ(2D) (J = 0, 1), respectively. To search for χbJ(3P) (J = 0, 1, 2), the most competitive channels are the decays χbJ(3P) → γΥ(3S). And the best way to find χb2(1F) is to search for the decay of χb2(1F) → γΥ(1D).
A coordinate-independent formalism for detecting high-frequency gravitational waves
Authors: Ratzinger Wolfram , Schenk Sebastian , Schwaller Pedro
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In an external electric or magnetic field, a gravitational wave (GW) may be converted into electromagnetic radiation. We present a coordinate-invariant framework to describe the GW signal in a detector that is based on this effect, such as cavities for axion searches. In this framework, we pay special attention to the definition of manifestly coordinate-independent expressions for the electromagnetic fields that an external observer would detect. A careful assessment of the detector’s perceived motion allows us to treat both its mechanical and its electromagnetic response to the GW consistently. We further introduce well-defined approximations for which this motion may be neglected, and hence provide suggestions on which coordinate frame is suitable to characterise the GW signal in practice. We illustrate our findings in two examples, an infinitesimally thin rod and a spherical electromagnetic cavity.
Einsamkeit in Deutschland – Prävalenz, Entwicklung über die Zeit und regionale Unterschiede
Authors: Entringer Theresa M. , Stacherl Barbara
Published: August 2024

Hintergrund

Einsamkeit ist weitverbreitet und hat negative Folgen für die Gesundheit. Diese Studie soll die Fragen beantworten: (1) wie viele Menschen in Deutschland hocheinsam sind, (2) wie sich die Einsamkeit in Deutschland über die Zeit – insbesondere im Hinblick auf die Covid-19-Pandemie – veränderte und (3) welche regionalen Unterschiede es in der Einsamkeit in Deutschland gibt.

Methoden

Die vorliegende Studie verwendet Daten aus den Wellen 2013, 2017 und 2021 des Sozio-oekonomischen Panels, einer deutschen bevölkerungsrepräsentativen Panelstudie. Auf der Grundlage der University of California, Los Angeles(UCLA)-Einsamkeitsskala schätzen wir die Prävalenzen der Hocheinsamen. Mit Mehrebenenmodellen analysieren wir die Veränderungen der Einsamkeit von 2013 bis 2021. Schließlich erstellen wir Karten, um die regionale Verteilung der Einsamkeit in Deutschland zu illustrieren.

Ergebnisse

Rund 2 % der in Deutschland lebenden Menschen gehören zu den hocheinsamen Menschen. Dieser Anteil änderte sich auch während der Covid-19-Pandemie nicht. Allerdings stieg die mittlere Einsamkeit in Deutschland an, vor allem während der Pandemie. Gleichzeitig ändert sich auch die regionale Verteilung von Einsamkeit. Während 2013 vor allem der Osten Deutschlands von Einsamkeit betroffen war, gehören während der Pandemie vor allem Regionen im Westen Niedersachsens, Rheinland-Pfalz und Hessen zu den am stärksten von Einsamkeit betroffenen Regionen.

Diskussion

Ursachen für diese Veränderungen können sowohl in strukturellen Veränderungen der deutschen Gesellschaft in den vergangenen 10 Jahren liegen, aber auch an unterschiedlichen Maßnahmen zur Bekämpfung der Covid-19-Pandemie. Da die neuesten Daten zu Einsamkeit aus 2021 stammen, bedarf es dringend weiterer Datenerhebungen, um die aktuelle Einsamkeit in Deutschland abzubilden.
Hepatoprotective effects of diosmin: a narrative review
Authors: Hassanein Emad H. M. , Althagafy Hanan S. , Baraka Mohammad A. , Amin Haitham
Published: August 2024

Liver diseases represent a formidable global health threat. Hesperidin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, is the source of diosmin (DS). The in vivo and in vitro investigations of the pharmacological effects of DS reveal that it exhibits tremendous beneficial effects, such as fighting against inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. These effects have been noticed in various disease models, emphasizing the potential therapeutic value of DS in tackling diverse pathological conditions. Interestingly, DS has promising liver-defense capabilities against a range of hepatic illnesses, such as radiation-induced hepatic injury, liver ischemia/reperfusion injury, alcoholic hepatic disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, DS demonstrates potential hepatoprotective effects against environmental toxins, such as heavy metals. DS activates PPAR-γ and Nrf2, leading to antioxidant effects that reduce oxidative stress. Moreover, DS suppresses NF-κB, NLRP3, MAPK activities, and cytokine production (TNF-α and IL-1β), resulting in inflammation suppression. These anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to the activation of PPAR-γ and Nrf2, which are NF-κB inhibitors. This review aims to comprehensively discuss the hepatoprotective capacity of DS, elucidating the underlying mechanisms and identifying several research avenues that warrant further exploration to ascertain the prospective clinical advantages of DS intake as a viable strategy for the treatment of hepatic illnesses.

Graphical Abstract
Some Strong Limit Theorems in Averaging
Authors: Kifer Yuri
Published: August 2024

The paper deals with the fast-slow motions setups in the discrete time $$X^{\varepsilon }((n+1){\varepsilon })=X^{\varepsilon }(n{\varepsilon })+{\varepsilon }B(X^{\varepsilon }(n{\varepsilon }),\xi (n))$$

X
ε

(

(
n
+
1
)

ε
)

=

X
ε

(
n
ε
)

+
ε
B

(

X
ε

(
n
ε
)

,
ξ

(
n
)

)

, $$n=0,1,...,[T/{\varepsilon }]$$

n
=
0
,
1
,
.
.
.
,
[
T
/
ε
]

and the continuous time $$\frac{dX^{\varepsilon }(t)}{dt}=B(X^{\varepsilon }(t),\xi (t/{\varepsilon })),\, t\in [0,T]$$

d

X
ε

(
t
)

dt

=
B

(

X
ε

(
t
)

,
ξ

(
t
/
ε
)

)

,

t
∈

[
0
,
T
]

where B is a smooth in the first variable vector function and $$\xi $$
ξ
is a sufficiently fast mixing stationary stochastic process. It is known since (Khasminskii in Theory Probab Appl 11:211–228, 1966) that if $${\bar{X}}$$

X

¯

is the averaged motion then $$G^{\varepsilon }={\varepsilon }^{-1/2}(X^{\varepsilon }-{\bar{X}})$$

G
ε

=

ε

-
1
/
2

(

X
ε

-

X

¯

)

weakly converges to a Gaussian process G. We will show that for each $${\varepsilon }$$
ε
the processes $$\xi $$
ξ
and G can be redefined on a sufficiently rich probability space without changing their distributions so that $$E\sup _{0\le t\le T}|G^{\varepsilon }(t)-G(t)|^{2\,M} =O({\varepsilon }^{{\delta }}),\,{\delta }>0$$

E

sup

0
≤
t
≤
T

|

G
ε

(
t
)

-
G

(
t
)

|

2

M

=
O

(

ε

δ

)

,

δ
>
0

which gives also $$O({\varepsilon }^{{\delta }/3})$$

O
(

ε

δ
/
3

)

Prokhorov distance estimate between the distributions of $$G^{\varepsilon }$$

G
ε

and G. This provides also convergence estimates in the Kantorovich–Rubinstein (or Wasserstein) metrics. In the product case $$B(x,\xi )={\Sigma }(x)\xi $$

B
(
x
,
ξ
)
=
Σ
(
x
)
ξ

we obtain also almost sure convergence estimates of the form $$\sup _{0\le t\le T}|G^{\varepsilon }(t)-G(t)| =O({\varepsilon }^{\delta })$$

sup

0
≤
t
≤
T

|

G
ε

(
t
)

-
G

(
t
)

|

=
O

(

ε

δ

)

a.s., as well as the Strassen’s form of the law of iterated logarithm for $$G^{\varepsilon }$$

G
ε

. We note that our mixing assumptions are adapted to fast motions generated by important classes of dynamical systems.
Gut Microbiome in Children with Congenital Heart Disease After Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery (GuMiBear Study)
Authors: Koc Fatma , Magner Claire , Murphy Kiera , Kelleher Sean T. , Tan Mong H. , O’Toole Molly , Jenkins Dominic , Boyle Jordan , Lavelle Marie , Maguire Niamh , Ross Paul R. , Stanton Catherine , McMahon Colin J.
Published: August 2024

The gut microbiome of infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery (CPB) is at risk of profound alteration. The aim of this study was to examine the gut microbiome pre- and post-bypass surgery to explore potential implications of altered gut biodiversity. A prospective cohort study involving infants with CHD who underwent CPB was performed. Faecal samples were collected from infants alongside the collection of demographic and clinical data in order to examine gut microbiome changes before and after surgery. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis was performed on DNA isolated from stool samples to determine changes in gut microbiome composition. Thirty-three patients were recruited, with samples from thirteen of these available for final analysis. Compared with healthy, matched controls, at a genus level, pre-operative samples for infants with CHD demonstrated a higher relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella (31% vs 2–6%) and a lower relative abundance of Bifidobacterium (13% vs 40–60%). In post-operative samples, the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella (35%), Enterococcus (11%), Akkermansia (6%), and Staphylococcus (5%) were higher than pre-op samples. One infant developed post-operative necrotising-enterocolitis (NEC). They displayed a marked abundance of the Enterococcus (93%) genus pre-operatively. This study demonstrates that infants with CHD have an altered gut microbiome when compared with healthy controls and there might be a possible link between an abundance of virulent species and NEC.
Long-term outcomes and trends in elbow arthroplasty with Coonrad-Morrey prosthesis: a retrospective study in large group of patients
Authors: Tarallo Luigi , Celli Andrea , Delvecchio Matilde , Costabile Lorenzo , Ciacca Grazia , Porcellini Giuseppe , Catani Fabio
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Total Elbow Arthroplasty (TEA) was first developed to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis, but its uses have grown to encompass end-stage osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and distal humeral fractures. This study analyzes indications changes, long-term survival, complications, and post-operative functional results of the Coonrad-Morrey prostheses, enhancing the existing literature on this technique and substantial case history.

Methods

We included 122 arthroplasties in 117 patients, 28 males and 89 females (mean age of 67 years) treated in our hospital between 2002 and 2016. Minimum follow-up was four years. We collect functional parameters of 48 patients (51 elbows), due to death of patients due to old age and loss at follow-up.

Results

Survival rate at five years was 90%, 85% at 10 years and 83% at 15 years. The overall medium Mayo elbow score was 79.7 ± 18.3 with the highest result in osteoarthritis patients (p < 0.005); QuickDASH score was 33.1 ± 25.5 with the worse result in rheumatoid group. Average post-operative arc of motion (ROM) was 95°±27°. There were complications in 46 out of 122 cases (37.7%) and revision surgeries were performed in 12 of them (9.8%): seven aseptic loosening, four late septic loosening, one bushing wear. In 27 instances (22.1%) was reported ulnar nerve involvement.

Conclusion

Coonrad-Morrey prosthesis has shown satisfactory clinical results in the treatment of a wide range of pathologies. The long-term implant survivorship was satisfactory, yet the occurrence of failures and complications cannot be overlooked, above all the ulnar nerve paresthesia. There was a good recovery in quality of life, pain-free with limited residual limb disability.
Insights into dental age estimation: introducing multiple regression data from a Black South African population on modified gustafson’s criteria
Authors: Rudolphi Fabian , Steffens Laurin , Shay Denys , Smit Chané , Robinson Liam , Bernitz Herman , Schmeling Andreas , Timme Maximilian
Published: August 2024

Dental Age Estimation (DAE) is an effective instrument of the rule of law for verifying dubious age claims in living individuals. Once tooth development is complete, only degenerative dental characteristics can be used for this purpose. The influence of ethnicity on these degenerative dental characteristics has not been clarified.

Degenerative changes were examined using modified Gustafson’s criteria including secondary dentin formation, cementum apposition, periodontal recession and attrition using the Olze et al. (2012) staging scales. Orthopantomograms of 1882 black South Africans, consisting of 934 females and 948 males, from 12.00 to 40.96 years of chronological age were utilized. Two independent examiners performed the evaluations, with one of the two evaluating all radiographs twice.

The relationship between individual characteristics and chronological age was analyzed using multiple regression analysis with chronological age as the dependent variable. The resulting R2 values ranged from 0.22 to 0.35, and the standard error of estimate were between 6.6 and 7.3 years. The correlation with age was consistently lower for females compared to males. The characteristic of cementum apposition emerged as critical in this population, due to a particularly low correlation with age and observer agreements partly in the “slight” range. The formula’s values for the correlation with age were in general below the literature values for other populations. Overall, the limited precision of the age estimation by the formulae presented, especially for females, must be emphasized. The question of whether ethnicity per se exerts an influence on the characteristics in question, or whether the different socio-economic status, which encompasses factors such as nutrition and healthcare, is the determining factor, needs to be assessed in future studies.
Brain region specific regulation of anandamide (down) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (up) in association with anxiety (AEA) and resilience (S1P) in a mouse model of chronic unpredictable mild stress
Authors: Fischer Caroline , Thomas Dominique , Gurke Robert , Tegeder Irmgard
Published: August 2024

Chronic unpredictable and unavoidable stress is associated with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, whereas cycles of stress and stress relief strengthen resilience. It has been suggested that increased breakdown of brain endocannabinoids (eCB) promotes a feeling of adversity. To assess the impact of stress on bioactive lipid homeostasis, we analyzed eCB, sphingolipids, and ceramides in seven brain regions and plasma in a mouse model of chronic unpredictable mild stress. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was associated with low levels of anandamide in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in association with indicators of anxiety (elevated plus maze). Oppositely, CUMS caused elevated levels of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:1) and sphinganine-1-phosphate (S1P d18:0) in the midbrain and thalamus, which was associated with readouts of increased stress resilience, i.e., marble burying and struggling in the tail suspension tests. In the periphery, elevated plasma levels of ceramides revealed similarities with human major depression and suggested unfavorable effects of stress on metabolism, but plasma lipids were not associated with body weight, sucrose consumption, or behavioral features of depression or anxiety. The observed brain site-specific lipid changes suggest that the forebrain succumbs to adverse stress effects while the midbrain takes up defensive adjustments.
Epidemiology and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in fattening pig farms in northern Italy
Authors: Allievi Carolina , Valleri Marco , Zanzani Sergio Aurelio , Zanon Alessandro , Mortarino Michele , Manfredi Maria Teresa
Published: August 2024

In Italy, pig breeding is characterised by intensive farms in which parasitic diseases often present a subclinical pattern, while being responsible for decreased animal welfare and great economic losses. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of major parasites in pigs, and, for this purpose, 880 faecal samples of fattening pigs raised in 22 intensive farms located in northern Italy were collected in two different sampling sessions, at the beginning and end of the fattening cycle. For the detection of helminth eggs and coccidian oocysts, a quantitative flotation technique was used, whereas a conventional PCR was performed to confirm the identification of cestode eggs found by copromicroscopic analysis. Moreover, data regarding herd management were collected to assess risk factors for parasite occurrence. A total of 95 samples were positive for at least one parasitic taxon (10.8%); the most detected parasite was Ascaris suum (7.6%), followed by Trichuris suis (1.7%) and Cystoisospora suis (0.9%). Further, eggs with morphometric features compatible with those of Hymenolepis diminuta were detected in 16 samples (1.8%), and the analysis of sequences confirmed the identification of cestode eggs. Statistical analysis showed that large farms and those applying the all-in/all-out system were associated with a lower risk of nematode infection. This study provided data on prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal parasites in two different times of the fattening cycle. It was evidenced that endoparasites are persistent, albeit with low prevalences, and would need specific measures to reduce their effects on both animal health and productivity.
Oncologic outcomes and survival of modern surgical approaches for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST)
Authors: Freeman Hadley D. , Mudgway Ross , Tran Zachary , Kim Rachael , Lum Sharon S. , Namm Jukes P. , O’Leary Michael P. , Reeves Mark E. , Wu Esther , Caba Molina David
Published: August 2024

Background

Studies have demonstrated comparable outcomes between laparoscopic and open resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). We sought to compare outcomes among robotic, laparoscopic, and open resection of gastric GIST in the era of expanding minimally invasive surgery.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of adult patients with gastric GIST undergoing definitive surgery using the National Cancer Database from 2010 to 2020, excluding cases converted to open. Patients were stratified into minimally invasive surgery (MIS), (combined robotic (R) and laparoscopic (L)), and open (O). Hospital length of stay (LOS), 30-day mortality, 90-day mortality, and margin status were assessed. Subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate outcomes between R and L cohorts. Entropy balancing was used to adjust for intergroup differences. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates were used to compare unadjusted 5-year survival.

Results

Of the 15,022 patients (R = 10.4%, L = 44.3%, O = 45.3%), 63.2% were stage I and 70.6% underwent partial gastrectomy. MIS approach was associated with shorter hospital LOS (β: − 2.58; 95% CI: − 2.82 to − 2.33) and lower odds of 30-day (OR 0.45; 95% CI: 0.30–0.68) and 90-day mortality (OR 0.54; 95% CI: 0.39–0.74) compared to O. Likelihood of R0 resection similar between groups (OR 1.00; 95% CI: 0.88–1.14). Hospital LOS (β: + 0.25; 95% CI: − 0.14–0.64), odds of 30-day (OR 0.99; 95% CI: 0.40–2.46) and 90-day mortality (OR 0.89; 95% CI: 0.47–1.70), and rate of R0 resection (OR 1.02; 95% CI: 0.82–1.27) were comparable between R and L cohorts. Compared to O, MIS approach was associated with improved 5-year OS (log rank p < 0.001). Overall survival was not significantly different between R and L (log rank p = 0.44).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that MIS approach may be considered for resection of gastric GIST in select patients. Among patients receiving an MIS approach, the robotic technique can be considered an oncologically safe alternative to laparoscopic surgery.

Graphical Abstract
Association between geospatial disparities in food security with weight loss and nutritional outcomes of metabolic surgery
Authors: Wilkerson Avia D. , Gentle Corey , Dewey Elizabeth N. , Sajankila Nitin , Buchalter R. Blake , Strong Andrew T. , Feng Xiaoxi , Patti Mary Elizabeth , Asfaw Sofya , Wilson Rickesha , Aminian Ali
Published: August 2024

Background

Food insecurity has been linked to higher rates of obesity. It has also been shown to diminish the effectiveness of weight loss strategies, including intensive lifestyle interventions. One essential component of food insecurity is having a geospatial disadvantage in access to healthy, affordable food, such as living within a food desert. This study aims to determine if food insecurity also impacts weight loss and nutritional outcomes in patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

Methods

Clinical outcomes of patients who underwent RYGB or SG at Cleveland Clinic or affiliate regional hospitals in the United States from 2010 to 2018 were collected. Modified Retail Food Environmental Index (mRFEI) data was collected from the Center for Disease Control and merged with patient census tract data, allowing the patient cohort to be divided into those living in areas identified as food secure (mRFEI > 10%), food swamps (mRFEI = 1–10%), or food deserts (mRFEI = 0). Postoperative weight change was evaluated with quadratic growth mixture models and stratified by surgery type.

Results

A total of 5097 patients were included in this study cohort, including 3424 patients who underwent RYGB and 1673 who underwent SG. The median duration of follow-up was 2.3 years (IQR 0.89–3.6 years). Food security status was not associated with postoperative weight change (RYGB p = 0.73, SG p = 0.60), weight loss nadir (RYGB p = 0.60, SG p = 0.79), or weight regain (RYGB p = 0.93, SG p = 0.85). Deficiencies in nutritional markers at 1–2 years after surgery were also not significantly different between food security groups.

Conclusion

Despite the established relationship between food insecurity and obesity, food insecurity does not negatively impact weight loss or nutritional outcomes following RYGB or SG, demonstrating metabolic surgery as a powerful and equitable tool for treating obesity.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Weighted fractional Poincaré inequalities via isoperimetric inequalities
Authors: Myyryläinen Kim , Pérez Carlos , Weigt Julian
Published: August 2024

Our main result is a weighted fractional Poincaré–Sobolev inequality improving the celebrated estimate by Bourgain–Brezis–Mironescu. This also yields an improvement of the classical Meyers–Ziemer theorem in several ways. The proof is based on a fractional isoperimetric inequality and is new even in the non-weighted setting. We also extend the celebrated Poincaré–Sobolev estimate with $$A_p$$

A
p

weights of Fabes–Kenig–Serapioni by means of a fractional type result in the spirit of Bourgain–Brezis–Mironescu. Examples are given to show that the corresponding $$L^p$$

L
p

-versions of weighted Poincaré inequalities do not hold for $$p>1$$

p
>
1

.
Event-related potentials and behavioral correlates of emotional recognition memory in late pregnancy
Authors: Raz Sivan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Research on cognitive and emotional functions during pregnancy challenges the prevalent perception of cognitive decline in pregnant women. This study investigates the behavioral and neural dynamics of cognitive-affective processing in third-trimester pregnant women, comparing them with non-pregnant controls.

Methods

Using a 64-channel EEG-ERP system, we recorded brain activity as participants engaged in an emotional word recognition task. This task involved initially viewing a sequence of emotional and neutral words, followed by a recognition test where participants identified each word as 'new' or 'previously seen'.

Results

Contrary to widespread beliefs about diminished recognition ability during late pregnancy, our results revealed no significant differences in error rates between groups. However, pregnant participants demonstrated slower reaction times. In terms of neural responses, pregnant women exhibited increased amplitudes in the N1, P2, and N400 ERP components, suggesting that they may require additional brain resources compared with non-pregnant individuals to process perceptual information. A significant interaction was observed between pregnancy status and the emotional valence of stimuli. Pregnant women showed heightened N1 and N400 responses to negative words, indicating increased sensitivity to stimuli potentially representing threat. This enhanced response was not observed for positive or neutral words. Furthermore, there was an amplified N1 response to 'new' words, but not to 'old' words.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that late pregnancy is characterized by heightened responsiveness to new and particularly negative stimuli, potentially leading to a more cautious behavioral approach. Heightened vigilance and sensitivity could offer evolutionary advantages, optimizing fetal development and enhancing maternal well-being.
Straightforward and immediate ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy using a guide needle technique to get adequate tissue with reduced procedural time
Authors: Komatsu Hiroaki , Yamashita Tomohisa , Osanami Arata , Akazawa Chikako , Endo Kota , Tsugawa Shun , Kimura Ayumu , Miyamori Daisuke , Abe Koki , Takahashi Satoko , Gocho Yufu , Koyama Masayuki , Sato Tatsuya , Tanaka Marenao , Moniwa Norihito , Furuhashi Masato
Published: August 2024

Background

A streamlined and effective renal biopsy technique is essential for all nephrologists, particularly those who are less experienced, such as residents. Herein, we report the efficacy of a Straightforward and Immediate ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy using a Guide Needle (SIGN) technique, which allows operators to insert a biopsy gun through a guide needle placed into the fascia of the posterior abdominal wall.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a nephrology training institution to compare the time spent on the procedure and the number of glomeruli obtained between a group using the SIGN (n = 81) and a group using the conventional ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy technique with a needle guide device (n = 143).

Results

The median procedure time in the SIGN group (2 min, interquartile range [IQR]: 1–3 min) was significantly shorter than that in the conventional group (3 min, IQR: 2–4 min) (P < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression and logistic regression analyses adjusted for covariates, including operators (board-certificated nephrologists or nephrology residents), showed that the use of the SIGN technique was independently associated with a high number of glomeruli obtained and a procedure time above 2 min as the median value (odds ratio: 0.17, 95% confidence interval CI 0.09–0.34). The prevalence of complications was comparable between the two groups (P = 0.681).

Conclusion

The SIGN technique reduces the procedure time and obtains adequate biopsy tissue regardless of the operator’s experience. SIGN can be applied in nephrology training programs and used as a standard biopsy technique.
Grounded Persistent Path Homology: A Stable, Topological Descriptor for Weighted Digraphs
Authors: Chaplin Thomas , Harrington Heather A. , Tillmann Ulrike
Published: August 2024

Weighted digraphs are used to model a variety of natural systems and can exhibit interesting structure across a range of scales. In order to understand and compare these systems, we require stable, interpretable, multiscale descriptors. To this end, we propose grounded persistent path homology (GrPPH)—a new, functorial, topological descriptor that describes the structure of an edge-weighted digraph via a persistence barcode. We show there is a choice of circuit basis for the graph which yields geometrically interpretable representatives for the features in the barcode. Moreover, we show the barcode is stable, in bottleneck distance, to both numerical and structural perturbations.
Aggregation and transport of microplastics by a cold-core ring in the southern recirculation of the Kuroshio Extension: the role of mesoscale eddies on plastic debris distribution
Authors: Nakajima Ryota , Nagano Akira , Osafune Satoshi , Tsuchiya Masashi , Fujikura Katsunori
Published: August 2024

Mesoscale eddies – ocean vortices with spatial scales of tens to hundreds of kilometers and time scales of months to years – are among the most energetic forms of flow in the ocean, and may act as significant transporters of floating microplastics. Yet, shipboard observation has thus far not clarified the abundance and transport of microplastics in mesoscale eddies. We conducted floating microplastic surveys in an intense cyclonic mesoscale eddy with a large sea surface height depression (approximately 0.8 m), a so-called cold-core ring, in the Kuroshio Extension recirculation gyre (KERG) southeast of Japan. The concentration of microplastics within the eddy (460 × 104 pieces/km2) was one or two orders of magnitude higher than in the adjacent oceanic waters, likely due to the acquisition of microplastics from the microplastic-rich Kuroshio Extension (KE) when detaching, as well as the horizontal entrainment of particles by the eddy. Our examination by using an assimilation product showed that most particles captured by the eddy remained within for several months while the eddy moved clockwise in the KERG. These results suggest that mesoscale eddies are of importance in the transportation and redistribution of microplastics on the ocean surface.
Partitioning denitrification pathways in N2O emissions from re-flooded dry paddy soils
Authors: Tang Yijia , Minasny Budiman , McBratney Alex
Published: August 2024

In flooded paddy fields, peak greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) emission after rewetting the dry soils is widely recognised. However, the relative contribution of biotic and abiotic factors to this emission remains uncertain. In this study, we used the isotope technique (δ18O and δ15NSP) and molecular-based microbial analysis in an anoxic incubation experiment to evaluate the contributions of bacterial, fungal, and chemical denitrification to N2O emissions. We collected eight representative paddy soils across southern China for an incubation experiment. Results show that during the 10-day incubation period, the net N2O emissions were mainly produced by fungal denitrification, which accounted for 58–77% in six of the eight investigated flooded paddy soils. In contrast, bacterial denitrification contributed 6–15% of the net N2O emissions. Moreover, around 11–35% of the total N2O emissions were derived from chemical denitrification in all soil types. Variation partitioning analysis (VPA) and principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated that initial soil organic carbon (OC) concentrations were the primary regulator of N2O source patterns. Soils with relatively lower OC concentration (7–15 mg g−1) tend to be dominated by fungal denitrification, which accounted for the net N2O production at the end of the incubation period. Overall, these findings highlight the dominance of the fungal denitrification pathway for N2O production in flooded paddy soils, which predominates in soils with relatively lower OC content. This suggests that fungal contribution should be considered when optimizing agricultural management system timing to control N2O emissions in flooded paddy soil ecosystems, and for the relevant establishment of predictive numerical models in the future.
Illegally Crossing an Open Border: The Experiences of Venezuelan Women’s Journeys to Colombia Through Unauthorised Routes
Authors: Vergara Carlos Iglesias
Published: August 2024

This article aims to document the experiences of women crossing borders through unauthorised routes and the impact that migration policies have on their journeys. Using the case of Venezuelan migration to Colombia, it will argue that while the Colombian government claims to have an open border and welcomes Venezuelans without restrictions, there are gaps between this generous discourse and its implementation, forcing many migrants to enter the country through unauthorised points. This is especially so for women of low socioeconomic backgrounds and single mothers who must navigate policies devised with heteronormative assumptions about family composition. Drawing from the narratives of nine female migrants, the paper will conclude that contrary to existing literature, which identifies smugglers as the drivers of clandestine migration, female migrants may be actively involved in securing their journeys and can circumvent migration policies as a form of resistance.
Artful Echoes: Amplifying SEL Through Interactive Read-Alouds and Arts Engagement
Authors: Stanley Julie A. , Picot Christine J. , Hopkins-Flory Jennifer
Published: August 2024

This article outlines a series of mini-lessons designed to integrate interactive read-alouds, arts-engaged activities, and social-emotional learning (SEL) themes to support literacy development and socioemotional well-being in students. Each lesson pairs a carefully selected anchor text with a creative arts activity and online resources, aiming to foster engagement and holistic growth. SEL competencies such as identity exploration, impulse control, managing strong emotions, and responsible decision-making are emphasized. Practical strategies and implementation steps are provided to assist educators in integrating these approaches into their curriculum, promoting equity and accessibility while nurturing a positive classroom culture.
Populations of Phytophthora infestans in northern and eastern Europe
Authors: Ludwiczewska Mirella , Janiszewska Marta , Yin Zhimin , Śliwka Jadwiga
Published: August 2024

Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary is an oomycete plant pathogen that causes late blight in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). This review documents the population structure of P. infestans in northern and eastern Europe, and aims to explain the differences between populations of P. infestans in this region and in western Europe. Populations of P. infestans are influenced by many factors, e.g., migrations related to the movement of potato seed tubers, possibility of sexual reproduction, changes in climate, and agricultural management practices. All the presented factors may have a significant impact on the P. infestans population structure. The knowledge on P. infestans populations varies strongly depending on country and time, even within the rather intensively studied region of eastern and northern Europe. Our review indicates some knowledge gaps, such as a lack of data for some countries and gaps in some years in population monitoring. This indicates the need to continue the monitoring of P. infestans populations.
Revisiting the Relationship of Arithmetical Thinking and Letter-Symbolic Algebra
Authors: Pitta-Pantazi Demetra , Chimoni Maria , Christou Constantinos
Published: August 2024

This article reports on an empirical study that investigates the way students’ performance in solving arithmetical tasks may be related to their performance in solving algebraic tasks. The sample consisted of 203 Grade 6 students. The arithmetical tasks involved arithmetical expressions with known quantities, whereas the algebraic tasks involved algebraic expressions with both known quantities and unknown quantities; the latter were represented by letter-symbolic representations. The analysis of students’ responses in solving the arithmetical tasks showed that students either used “strategies based on calculations” or “strategies based on structure sense”. The results from the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicated that “strategies based on structure sense” had a significant effect on students successfully solving the algebraic tasks. The findings also suggested that “structure sense” is a shared characteristic of arithmetical thinking and algebraic thinking that is essential for successful engagement with both arithmetic and letter-symbolic algebra contexts.
Exploring the factors driving AI adoption in production: a systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Heimberger Heidi , Horvat Djerdj , Schultmann Frank
Published: August 2024

Our paper analyzes the current state of research on artificial intelligence (AI) adoption from a production perspective. We represent a holistic view on the topic which is necessary to get a first understanding of AI in a production-context and to build a comprehensive view on the different dimensions as well as factors influencing its adoption. We review the scientific literature published between 2010 and May 2024 to analyze the current state of research on AI in production. Following a systematic approach to select relevant studies, our literature review is based on a sample of articles that contribute to production-specific AI adoption. Our results reveal that the topic has been emerging within the last years and that AI adoption research in production is to date still in an early stage. We are able to systematize and explain 35 factors with a significant role for AI adoption in production and classify the results in a framework. Based on the factor analysis, we establish a future research agenda that serves as a basis for future research and addresses open questions. Our paper provides an overview of the current state of the research on the adoption of AI in a production-specific context, which forms a basis for further studies as well as a starting point for a better understanding of the implementation of AI in practice.
Protein enrichment of the red macroalga Palmaria palmata using pulsed electric field and enzymatic processing
Authors: Maribu Ingrid , Blikra Marthe Jordbrekk , Eilertsen Karl-Erik , Elvevold Kjetil
Published: August 2024

The human population is steadily increasing and new alternative protein sources are necessary to secure food safety. There is a growing interest in macroalgae, or seaweed, as an alternative food source as they are rich in nutrients, minerals and carbohydrates. Among the diverse species of macroalga, Palmaria palmata, a red seaweed of growing interest due to its high protein content, represents a potential candidate for contributing to food security and animal feed. Novel methods are being investigated for extracting valuable components from seaweed, including protein. In this study, pulsed electric field (PEF) and enzymatic assisted extraction (EAE) were tested to investigate whether the methods, alone or in combination, were sufficient for protein extraction from P. palmata. The results show high extraction yields of dry matter consisting mostly of carbohydrates and ash when using EAE. The results point to a concentration of protein, including essential amino acids, in the pellet after extraction with a combination of PEF and EAE, or EAE alone. There is potential for the protein-rich pellet in animal feed. For the supernatant, there are potential uses within biostimulants.