bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterisation of the current high prevalence of the new CPV‐2c variants in the Southern Vietnamese dogs signifies a widespread in the worldwide dog population
Authors: Bui Thi To Nga , Hoang Minh , Nguyen Van Dung , Nam Nguyen Minh , Than Van Thai
Published: May 2023

Background

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV‐2) is known as the primary etiological agent cause of acute gastroenteritis, myocarditis and death of canids worldwide. In Vietnam, although CPV‐2 infection and its outbreaks are the most important risk factors of the canine's health concern, lack of available information about the molecular epidemiology of the CPV‐2.

Objectives

In this study, the complete coding sequences of 10 CPV‐2 strains collected from dogs vaccinated with CPV‐2 vaccination were analysed to better understand the genomic characteristics of the current circulating CPV‐2 in Vietnam.

Methods

Ten CPV‐specific PCR‐positive rectal swab samples were collected from dogs with acute symptoms of haemorrhagic diarrhoea and vomiting in Vietnam in 2019. The complete coding sequences of these CPV strains were analysed to determine their phylogeny and genetic relationship with other available CPV strains globally.

Results

Analysis of the VP2 gene sequences demonstrated that the studied strains belonged to the new CPV‐2c variants with the unique mutations at amino acids 5Ala‐Gly and 447Iso‐Met. Phylogenetic tree analysis indicated that the studied strains share a common evolutionary origin with the current CPV‐2c strains circulating in dogs in Asia countries, including China, Thailand, Taiwan and Mongolia, in recent years. Low sequence identity between the studied strains and commercial vaccine strains was observed.

Conclusions

This study provides deep insights into the molecular characteristics, genetic diversity, and evolution of circulating CPV‐2 strains in Vietnam. We recommend more studies to estimate the effectiveness of the CPV vaccine and the need to continue developing other effective vaccination essential to better control the widespread of these new CPV‐2 variants.
Rheological behavior and thermomechanical properties of polyethylene—Glycidyl methacrylate vitrimers utilizing disulfide exchange
Authors: Lossen Amy , Montoya‐Ospina Maria Camila , Verhoogt Henk , Osswald Tim A.
Published: May 2023

Four vitrimers were made using polyethylene – glycidyl methacrylate copolymer (PE‐GMA) and 3,3′ – dithiodipropionic acid (DTDPA) using a two‐step procedure. The amount of DTDPA added was varied, and therefore, the crosslink density was also varied. Rheological experiments were performed. The vitrimers exhibit different rheological behavior depending on the angular frequency applied, which most likely stems from the presence of a crosslinked network. Additionally, there appears to be an on‐going reaction occurring during rheological tests, all of which occur above the melting temperature. Thermal and mechanical tests were also conducted. Thermomechanical testing determined that increasing crosslink density resulted in a decrease in the yield strength.
Candida albicanscholecystitis in a dog with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Verwey Elize , Weltan Sandra Mary , Whitehead Zandri
Published: May 2023

A 10‐year‐old, 8.9‐kg, spayed, female Jack Russell Terrier, with previously well‐controlled diabetes mellitus, presented with hyporexia of 2‐day duration. Cranial abdominal pain and weight loss were detected on clinical examination. Blood tests, urinalysis, urine protein:creatinine ratio, blood pressure, abdominal ultrasound and liver aspirate cytology revealed hyperglycaemia, elevated serum liver enzyme activities, glucosuria, proteinuria, hypertension, rounded liver edges, irregular hyperechoic gall bladder wall thickening, irregular hyperechoic gall bladder content and vacuolar hepatopathy. Bile cytological examination demonstrated fungal organisms, which were identified asCandida albicanson bile fungal culture. No bacteria were detected on bile cytological examination or bile bacterial aerobic and anaerobic culture. The dog was diagnosed withCandida albicanscholecystitis and recovered after a 12‐week course of oral ketoconazole. This case report highlights the value of performing bile cytology in suspect canine cholecystitis cases and is the first to describeCandida albicansfungal cholecystitis without bacterial coinfection in dogs.
In situ encapsulation of laccase in mesoporous amorphous ZIF‐8 for Reactive Blue 19 removal
Authors: Shi Yao , Xing Yifei , Gong Changbao , Zhao Huimin
Published: May 2023

Laccase with substrate non‐specificity is particularly effective in pollutant degradation. However, the practical application of the laccase is limited due to its poor stability and reusability. In this study, a simple in situ encapsulation method was used to immobilize laccase into amorphous zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (aZIF‐8), and the synthesized Lac@aZIF‐8 biocomposites were used to remove Reactive Blue 19 (RB 19). Results indicated that the presence of mesoporous endowed the immobilized laccase with higher substrate affinity. Compared with free laccase, the Lac@aZIF‐8 showed higher thermo‐tolerant performance, wider pH range, better storage stability, and reusability. The Lac@aZIF‐8 biocomposites have excellent performance in the effective removal of RB 19. Without any mediators, the dye decolorization rate of immobilized laccase reached up to 82% in 3 h under optimal conditions. Based on the LC‐MS analysis, the proposed degradation pathways of RB 19 were discussed technically. Moreover, the growth inhibition experiments on Scenedesmus obliquus confirmed the lower toxicity intensity of the degradation products. This research enhanced the stability of laccase while maintaining high substrate affinity, providing a novel strategy for the green and efficient treatment of dye wastewater.

Practitioners Points

Lac@aZIF‐8 was synthesized by a simple in situ encapsulation method.

The mesoporous structure endows the immobilized laccase with higher substrate affinity.

The Lac@aZIF‐8 shows higher thermo‐tolerant performance, wider pH range, better storage stability, and reusability.

The Lac@aZIF‐8 biocomposites have excellent performance in RB 19 removal.
Correction to: Virtual Enterprise Simulation Game as an Environment for Collaborative Creativity and Learning
Authors: Tuhkala Ari , Syynimaa Kirsi , Lainema Kirsi , Lämsä Joni , Lainema Timo , Hämäläinen Raija
Published: May 2023

∎∎∎
The hMSSM with a light gaugino/higgsino sector: implications for collider and astroparticle physics
Authors: Arcadi Giorgio , Djouadi Abdelhak , He Hong-Jian , Kneur Jean-Loic , Xiao Rui-Qing
Published: May 2023

Abstract

The hMSSM is a special parameterization of the minimal supersymmetric extension of the Standard Model (MSSM) in which the mass of the lightest Higgs boson is automatically set to the LHC measured value, Mh=125 GeV, by adjusting the supersymmetric particle spectrum such that it provides the required amount of radiative corrections to the Higgs boson masses. The latter spectrum was in general assumed to be very heavy, as indicated by the present exclusion limits of the LHC, not to affect the phenomenology of the Higgs sector. In this work, we investigate the impact on the hMSSM by a light gaugino and higgsino sector, that is allowed by the present LHC data. In particular, we discuss the radiative corrections due to charginos and neutralinos to the Higgs boson masses and couplings and show that an hMSSM can still be realized in this context. We first describe how this scenario is implemented in the package SuSpect that generates the MSSM Higgs and supersymmetric spectra. We then analyze the possible impact of Higgs boson decays into these new states, as well as the reverse cascade channels with Higgs bosons in the final states, for the constraints on the MSSM Higgs sector at the LHC. We further explore the cosmological constraints on the hMSSM with a light gaugino-higgsino spectrum. We analyze the relic abundance of the lightest neutralino as a candidate of the dark matter in the Universe and the constraints on its mass and couplings by the present and future astroparticle physics experiments.
More ingredients for an Altarelli cocktail at MiniBooNE
Authors: Kelly Kevin J. , Kopp Joachim
Published: May 2023

Abstract

The MiniBooNE excess persists as a significant puzzle in particle physics. Given that the MiniBooNE detector cannot discriminate between electron-like signals and backgrounds due to photons, the goal of this work is to study photon backgrounds in MiniBooNE in depth. We first consider a novel single-photon background arising from multi-nucleon scattering with coherently enhanced initial or final state radiation. This class of processes, which we dub “2p2hγ” (two-particle–two-hole + photon) can explain ~40 of the ~560 excess events observed by MiniBooNE in neutrino mode. Second, we consider the background from neutral-current single-π0 production, where two photons from π0 → γγ decay are mis-identified as an electron-like shower. We construct a phenomenological likelihood that reproduces MiniBooNE’s π0 → γγ background faithfully. Even with data-driven background estimation techniques, we find there is a residual dependence on the Monte Carlo generator used. Our results motivate a reduction in the significance of the MiniBooNE excess by 0.4σ.
Lepto-axiogenesis and the scale of supersymmetry
Authors: Barnes Patrick , Co Raymond T. , Harigaya Keisuke , Pierce Aaron
Published: May 2023

Abstract

If the Peccei-Quinn field containing the QCD axion undergoes rotations in the early universe, the dimension-five operator responsible for neutrino masses can generate a lepton asymmetry that ultimately gives rise to the observed baryon asymmetry of the Universe. This lepto-axiogenesis scenario requires a flat potential for the radial direction of the Peccei-Quinn field, naturally realized in supersymmetric models. We carefully compute the efficiency of this mechanism for the Dine-Fischler-Srednicki-Zhitnitsky (DFSZ) and Kim-Shifman-Vainshtein-Zakharov (KSVZ) axion models and place lower bounds on the masses of scalar superpartners required to reproduce the observed baryon asymmetry. For the KSVZ model, we find an efficiency for generation of the asymmetry six times larger than the previously extant computation after including scattering channels involving superpartners. In this case, the superpartner scale should be above 30 TeV for a domain wall number of one; the lower bound weakens for larger domain wall numbers. We find that the superpartner mass scale may also be as low as ~ 30 TeV for the DFSZ model. In all cases, the lower bound on the superpartner masses is inversely proportional to the sum of the squares of the neutrino masses and so can strengthen as the upper bound on the neutrino mass improves. We identify the parameter space where the axion rotation can simultaneously produce axion dark matter via kinetic misalignment; in this case it is possible to put an upper bound of order PeV on the masses of scalar superpartners.
On emergent conformal symmetry near the photon ring
Authors: Chen Bin , Hou Yehui , Hu Zezhou
Published: May 2023

Abstract

In this note we revisit the emergent conformal symmetry in the near-ring region of warped spacetime. In particular, we propose a novel construction of the emergent near-ring sl(2, ℝ)QNM symmetry. We show that each eikonal QNM family falls into one highest-weight representation of this algebra, and sl(2, ℝ)QNM can be related to the near-ring isometry group sl(2, ℝ)ISO in a simple way. Furthermore we find that the coherent state space of sl(2, ℝ)QNM can be identified with the phase space of the photon ring.
Correlators of double scaled SYK at one-loop
Authors: Okuyama Kazumi , Suzuki Kenta
Published: May 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we study one-loop contributions in the double-scaling limit of the SYK model from the chord diagrams and Liouville type effective action. We compute and clarify the meaning of each component consisting of the one-loop corrections for the two- and time-ordered four-point functions of light operators. We also reproduce the exact expression of the out-of-time-ordered four-point function at arbitrary temperatures within the one-loop level, which were previously computed from different methods.
Entwicklung von Qualitätsindikatoren für die Versorgung von Patient:innen mit chronischer Nierenerkrankung
Authors: Sierocinski Elizabeth , Dröge Lina , Chenot Jean-François , Ebert Natalie , Schäffner Elke , Bothe Tim , Mielke Nina , Stracke Sylvia , Kiel Simone
Published: May 2023

Hintergrund

Die chronische Nierenkrankheit (CKD) ist eine häufige Erkrankung, insbesondere im höheren Alter. Um der Progression der Erkrankung und deren Komplikationen vorzubeugen, ist eine leitliniengerechte ambulante Versorgung von Patient:innen mit CKD anzustreben. Zur Messung und Bewertung der Versorgungsqualität können Qualitätsindikatoren (QI) genutzt werden. In Deutschland existieren bisher keine QI für CKD. Ziel der Arbeit war die Entwicklung von QI für die Qualitätsüberprüfung der ambulanten Versorgung von Patient:innen über 70 Jahren mit nichtdialysepflichtiger CKD.

Material und Methoden

Auf Grundlage der nationalen S3-Leitlinie CKD und eines Reviews internationaler QI wurde eine Liste von QI erstellt. Die ausgewählten QI wurden in 2 Sets eingeteilt: basierend auf Routinedaten (z. B. Abrechnungsdaten der Krankenkassen) und auf Datenerhebung in der Praxis (Chart-Review). Expert:innen verschiedener Fachrichtungen sowie ein Patient:innenvertreter bewerteten diese in einem Delphi-Verfahren mit 2‑stufiger Onlinebefragung im Oktober 2021 und Januar 2022 und abschließender Konsensuskonferenz im März 2022. Zusätzlich wurden Ranglisten der wichtigsten QI von jedem Set erstellt.

Ergebnisse

Ein Inzidenz- und ein Prävalenzindikator wurden a priori festgelegt und standen nicht zur Abstimmung. Weitere 21 QI standen zur Abstimmung durch die Expert:innen. Für jedes QI-Set wurden die 7 wichtigsten Indikatoren ausgewählt. Nur 1 QI wurde von dem Expert:innenpanel für den zusätzlichen Einsatz bei Erwachsenen unter 70 Jahren als nicht geeignet eingestuft.

Diskussion

Die QI sollen es ermöglichen, die Qualität der ambulanten Versorgung von Patient:innen mit CKD zu untersuchen, mit dem Ziel, die leitlinienkonforme ambulante Versorgung zu optimieren.
Effects of floral symmetry and orientation on the consistency of pollinator entry angle
Authors: Jirgal Nina , Ohashi Kazuharu
Published: May 2023

Since the publication of Sprengel’s (1793) observations, it has been considered that flowers with zygomorphic (or bilaterally symmetrical) corollas evolved to restrict the movement of pollinators into the flower by limiting the pollinator’s direction of approach. However, little empirical support has been accumulated so far. Our aim was to build on previous research that showed zygomorphy reduces variance in pollinator entry angle, aiming to observe whether floral symmetry or orientation had an impact on pollinator entry angle in a laboratory experiment using bumble bees, Bombus ignitus. Using nine different combinations of artificial flowers created from three symmetry types (radial, bilateral and disymmetrical) and three orientation types (upward, horizontal, and downward), we tested the effects of these two floral aspects on the consistency of bee entry angle. Our results show that horizontal orientation significantly reduced the variance in entry angle, while symmetry had little effect. We also found either little or no significant interactions between angle and symmetry in their effect on entry angle. Thus, our results suggest that horizontal orientation forces the bees to orient themselves relative to gravity rather than the corolla and stabilizes their flower entry. This stabilizing effect may have been mistaken for the effect of zygomorphic corolla as it is presented horizontally in most species. Consequently, we suggest that the evolution of horizontal orientation preceded that of zygomorphy as indicated by some authors, and that the reason behind the evolution of zygomorphy should be revisited.
Speed and torque control of pneumatic motors using controlled pulsating flow
Authors: Aziz Mohamed A. , Benini Ernesto , Elsayed Mostafa E. A. , Khalifa Mohamed A. , Gaheen Osama A.
Published: May 2023

Pneumatic motors have several advantages and have many robotics and automation applications. The importance of the study is that it is a cheap and possible way to apply it to the fixed displacement pneumatic motors with simple directional control valve used. The purpose of the addition to any traditional pneumatic motors is to change the fixed displacement pneumatic motor to be variable speed and torque compared to the expensive systems such as the proportional control valve in many industrial applications. The study also included validated simulations using the Automation Studio program to control the pneumatic motor’s speed and torque. In addition, the results showed remarkable success in controlling the pneumatic motor outputs depending on the frequency of the compressed air-source pulses and pressure. The pulsating air frequencies of 1.5, 3, and 4.5 Hz were considered at different inlet source pressure changes from 1.72, 3.45, and 5.17 bar. As the pulsating flow frequency of compressed air decreased from 4.5, 3, and 1.5 Hz, the motor pressure and torque decreased. Furthermore, empirical correlations related to frequency and pressure effect have been developed. The error is 6.3–9.5% in predicting the motor speed and torque outputs. The limitation of the proposed method in real-life applications is about a maximum of 7.5 bar. On the other hand, the frequency is limited to 9 Hz using a mechanical solenoid.
In-ovo echocardiography for application in cardiovascular research
Authors: Hegemann Niklas , Bintig Willem , Perret Paul-Lennard , Rees Judith , Viperino Alessandra , Eickholt Britta , Kuebler Wolfgang M. , Höpfner Michael , Nitzsche Bianca , Grune Jana
Published: May 2023

Preclinical cardiovascular research relies heavily on non-invasive in-vivo echocardiography in mice and rats to assess cardiac function and morphology, since the complex interaction of heart, circulation, and peripheral organs are challenging to mimic ex-vivo. While n-numbers of annually used laboratory animals worldwide approach 200 million, increasing efforts are made by basic scientists aiming to reduce animal numbers in cardiovascular research according to the 3R’s principle. The chicken egg is well-established as a physiological correlate and model for angiogenesis research but has barely been used to assess cardiac (patho-) physiology. Here, we tested whether the established in-ovo system of incubated chicken eggs interfaced with commercially available small animal echocardiography would be a suitable alternative test system in experimental cardiology. To this end, we defined a workflow to assess cardiac function in 8–13-day-old chicken embryos using a commercially available high resolution ultrasound system for small animals (Vevo 3100, Fujifilm Visualsonics Inc.) equipped with a high frequency probe (MX700; centre transmit: 50 MHz). We provide detailed standard operating procedures for sample preparation, image acquisition, data analysis, reference values for left and right ventricular function and dimensions, and inter-observer variabilities. Finally, we challenged incubated chicken eggs with two interventions well-known to affect cardiac physiology—metoprolol treatment and hypoxic exposure—to demonstrate the sensitivity of in-ovo echocardiography. In conclusion, in-ovo echocardiography is a feasible alternative tool for basic cardiovascular research, which can easily be implemented into the small animal research environment using existing infrastructure to replace mice and rat experiments, and thus, reduce use of laboratory animals according to the 3R principle.
Bilateral simultaneous cochlear implantation is a safe method of hearing rehabilitation in adults
Authors: Gröger Maximilian , Loth Andreas , Helbig Silke , Stöver Timo , Leinung Martin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Bilateral cochlear implantation is an effective treatment for patients with bilateral profound hearing loss. In contrast to children, adults mostly choose a sequential surgery. This study addresses whether simultaneous bilateral CI is associated with higher rates of complications compared to sequential implantation.

Methods

169 bilateral CI surgeries were analyzed retrospectively. 34 of the patients were implanted simultaneously (group 1), whereas 135 patients were implanted sequentially (group 2). The duration of surgery, the incidence of minor and major complications and the duration of hospitalization of both groups were compared.

Results

In group 1, the total operating room time was significantly shorter. The incidences of minor and major surgical complications showed no statistically significant differences. A fatal non-surgical complication in group 1 was particularly extensively reappraised without evidence of a causal relationship to the chosen mode of care. The duration of hospitalization was 0.7 days longer than in unilateral implantation but 2.8 days shorter than the combined two hospital stays in group 2.

Conclusion

In the synopsis of all considered complications and complication-relevant factors, equivalence of simultaneous and sequential cochlear implantation in adults in terms of safety was found. However, potential side effects related to longer surgical time in simultaneous surgery must be considered individually. Careful patient selection with special consideration to existing comorbidities and preoperative anesthesiologic evaluation is essential.
Enhancement of electrochemical performance of monolayer SnS$$_2$$ for Li/Na-ion batteries through a sulphur vacancy: a DFT study
Authors: Bekeur C. A. , Mapasha R. E.
Published: May 2023

Various transition metal dichalcogenides materials have been investigated from bulk to monolayer phases for different advanced technological applications. Tin disulfide monolayer offers advantages as an anode material for Li/Na-ion batteries, although it cannot be considered ideal for direct exploitation. We systematically performed a comparative study of the adsorption and diffusion behaviour of Li/Na on a pristine SnS$$_2$$

2

monolayer and on a SnS$$_2$$

2

monolayer with S-vacancy for enhancement of electrochemical performance, using density functional theory approach. Although all the adsorption sites are exothermic, it was established that Li/Na adatoms mostly prefer to bind strongly on SnS$$_2$$

2

monolayer with S-vacancy but avoiding the S-vacancy site. It was established that avoiding the S-vacancy site along the path, excellent diffusion barriers of 0.19 eV for Li and 0.13 eV for Na were achieved, suggesting possible ultrafast charge/discharge rate. Due to reduced molar mass, the SnS$$_2$$

2

monolayer with S-vacancy has a slightly higher storage capacity than its pristine counterparts for both Li and Na adatoms. The obtained open circuit voltage values are within the range of 0.25–3.00 V assuring that the formation of dendrites can surely be averted for the envisaged battery operation. Understanding the effects of an S-vacancy on the electrochemical properties of Li/Na on the SnS$$_2$$

2

monolayer allows us to consider possible improvements to energy storage devices that can be applied as a result of improved anode material.
US regulatory considerations for low field magnetic resonance imaging systems
Authors: Krainak Daniel Michael , Zeng Rongping , Li Ningzhi , Woods Terry O’Riska , Delfino Jana Gut
Published: May 2023

Although there has been a resurgence of interest in low field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems in recent years, low field MRI is not a new concept. FDA has a long history of evaluating the safety and effectiveness of MRI systems encompassing a wide range of field strengths. Many systems seeking marketing authorization today include new technological features (such as artificial intelligence), but this does not fundamentally change the regulatory paradigm for MR systems. In this review, we discuss some of the US regulatory considerations for low field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, including applicability of existing laws and regulations and how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluates low field MRI systems for market authorization. We also discuss regulatory considerations in the review of low field MRI systems incorporating novel AI technology. We foresee that MRI systems of all field strengths intended for general diagnostic use will continue to be evaluated for marketing clearance by the metric of substantial equivalence set forth in the premarket notification pathway.
Multitemporal relative landslide exposure and risk analysis for the sustainable development of rapidly growing cities
Authors: Di Napoli Mariano , Miele Pietro , Guerriero Luigi , Annibali Corona Mariagiulia , Calcaterra Domenico , Ramondini Massimo , Sellers Chester , Di Martire Diego
Published: May 2023

In recent decades, developing countries have experienced an increase in the impact of natural disasters due to ongoing climate change and the sustained expansion of urban areas. The intrinsic vulnerability of settlements, due to poverty and poor governance, as well as the lack of tools for urban occupation planning and mitigation protocols, has made such impacts particularly severe. Cuenca (Ecuador) is a significant example of a city that in recent decades has experienced considerable population growth (i.e. exposure) and an associated increase in loss due to landslide occurrence. Despite such effects, updated urban planning tools are absent, so an evaluation of multitemporal exposure to landslides and related risks is required. In this perspective, a potential urban planning tool is presented based on updated data depicting the spatial distribution of landslides and their predisposing factors, as well as population change between 2010 and 2020. In addition, a multitemporal analysis accounting for changes in exposure between 2010 and 2020 and an estimation of relative landside risk was carried out. Due to the absence of spatially distributed population data, energy supply contract data have been used as a proxy of the population. The results show that the current higher exposure and related relative risk are estimated for parishes (parroquias) located in the southern sector of the study area (i.e. Turi, Santa Ana, Tarqui, Nulti, Baños and Paccha). Moreover, the exposure multitemporal analysis indicates that most parishes located in the hilly areas bounding the city centre (i.e. Sayausi, San Joaquin, Tarqui, Sidcay, Baños, Ricaurte, Paccha and Chiquintad) are experiencing sustained population growth and will be potentially exposed to an increased risk with a consistently growing trend. The obtained relative risk map can be considered a valuable tool for guiding land planning, land management, occupation restriction and early warning strategy adoption in the area. The methodological approach used, which accounts for landslide susceptibility and population variation through proxy data analysis, has the potential to be applied in a similar context of growing population cities in low- to mid-income countries, where data usually needed for a comprehensive landslide risk analysis are non-existing or only partially available.
Super-reparametrizations of weighted CSPs: properties and optimization perspective
Authors: Dlask Tomáš , Werner Tomáš , de Givry Simon
Published: May 2023

The notion of reparametrizations of Weighted CSPs (WCSPs) (also known as equivalence-preserving transformations of WCSPs) is well-known and finds its use in many algorithms to approximate or bound the optimal WCSP value. In contrast, the concept of super-reparametrizations (which are changes of the weights that keep or increase the WCSP objective for every assignment) was already proposed but never studied in detail. To fill this gap, we present a number of theoretical properties of super-reparametrizations and compare them to those of reparametrizations. Furthermore, we propose a framework for computing upper bounds on the optimal value of the (maximization version of) WCSP using super-reparametrizations. We show that it is in principle possible to employ arbitrary (under some technical conditions) constraint propagation rules to improve the bound. For arc consistency in particular, the method reduces to the known Virtual AC (VAC) algorithm. We implemented the method for singleton arc consistency (SAC) and compared it to other strong local consistencies in WCSPs on a public benchmark. The results show that the bounds obtained from SAC are superior for many instance groups.
Hydra: competing convolutional kernels for fast and accurate time series classification
Authors: Dempster Angus , Schmidt Daniel F. , Webb Geoffrey I.
Published: May 2023

We demonstrate a simple connection between dictionary methods for time series classification, which involve extracting and counting symbolic patterns in time series, and methods based on transforming input time series using convolutional kernels, namely Rocket and its variants. We show that by adjusting a single hyperparameter it is possible to move by degrees between models resembling dictionary methods and models resembling Rocket. We present Hydra, a simple, fast, and accurate dictionary method for time series classification using competing convolutional kernels, combining key aspects of both Rocket and conventional dictionary methods. Hydra is faster and more accurate than the most accurate existing dictionary methods, achieving similar accuracy to several of the most accurate current methods for time series classification. Hydra can also be combined with Rocket and its variants to significantly improve the accuracy of these methods.
COVID-19 mortality and use of intensive care among ethnic minorities – a national register-based Danish population study
Authors: Norredam Marie , Islamoska Sabrina , Petersen Jørgen Holm , Benfield Thomas
Published: May 2023

Migrants and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic compared to the majority population. Therefore, we studied mortality and use of mechanical ventilation (MV) by country of birth and migrant status in a nationwide cohort in Denmark. Nationwide register data on all cases hospitalized for > 24-hours with COVID-19 between February 2020 and March 2021. Main outcome measures were mortality and MV within 30 days of hospitalization for COVID-19. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated by region of origin and migrant status using logistic regression analyses, adjusting for age, sex, comorbidity and sociodemographic factors. Of 6,406 patients, 977 (15%) died and 342 (5%) were treated with mechanical ventilation. Immigrants (OR:0.55;95%CI: 0.44–0.70) and individuals of non-Western origin had a lower odds (OR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.37–0.65) of death upon admission with COVID-19 compared to Danish born individuals. Immigrants and descendants (OR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.22–2.15) as well as individuals of non-Western origin (OR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.35–2.47) had a significantly higher odds of MV compared to Danish born individuals. Outcomes of individuals with Western origin did not differ. Immigrants and individuals of non-Western origin had a significantly lower COVID-19 associated mortality compared to individuals of Danish origin after adjustment for sociodemographic factors and comorbidity. In contrast, the odds of MV was higher for immigrants and individuals of non-Western origin compared to individuals of Danish origin.
The role of environmental factors on sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease mortality: evidence from an age-period-cohort analysis
Authors: Denouel Angéline , Brandel Jean-Philippe , Seilhean Danielle , Laplanche Jean-Louis , Elbaz Alexis , Haik Stéphane
Published: May 2023

Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) is the most common form of prion diseases. The causes of sCJD are still unknown and exogenous factors may play a role. Worldwide, the number of patients with sCJD has progressively increased over time. This increase can be partly explained by increasing life expectancy and better case ascertainment, but a true increase in the number of sCJD cases cannot be excluded. We estimated mortality rates from sCJD in France (1992–2016) and studied variation in mortality rates by age, period, and time.

We included all cases aged 45–89 years old who died with a probable/definite sCJD diagnosis based on the French national surveillance network. We used age-period-cohort (APC) Poisson regression models to study variation in mortality rates by sex, age, period, and time.

A total of 2475 sCJD cases aged 45–89 years were included. Mortality rates increased with age, reached a peak between 75 and 79 years, and decreased thereafter. Mortality rates were higher in women than men at younger ages and lower at older ages. The full APC model with a sex×age interaction provided the best fit to the data, thus in favour of sex, age, period, and cohort effects on mortality rates. In particular, mortality rates increased progressively with successive birth cohorts.

Based on 25 years of active surveillance in France, we show evidence for sex, age, period, and cohort effects on sCJD mortality. The identification of cohort effects suggests that environmental exposures may play a role in sCJD etiology.
Uniform distribution of saddle connection lengths in all $$\textsf{SL}(2,\pmb {\mathbb {R}})$$ orbits
Authors: Robertson Donald , Dozier Benjamin
Published: May 2023

For every flat surface, almost every flat surface in its $$\textsf{SL}(2,\mathbb {R})$$

SL
(
2
,
R
)

orbit has the following property: the sequence of its saddle connection lengths in non-decreasing order is uniformly distributed in the unit interval.
Process mining to discover patterns in patient outcomes in a Psychological Therapies Service
Authors: Potts C. , Bond R. R. , Jordan J-A. , Mulvenna M. D. , Dyer K. , Moorhead A. , Elliott A.
Published: May 2023

In the mental health sector, Psychological Therapies face numerous challenges including ambiguities over the client and service factors that are linked to unfavourable outcomes. Better understanding of these factors can contribute to effective and efficient use of resources within the Service. In this study, process mining was applied to data from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Psychological Therapies Service (NHSCT PTS). The aim was to explore how psychological distress severity pre-therapy and attendance factors relate to outcomes and how clinicians can use that information to improve the service. Data included therapy episodes (N = 2,933) from the NHSCT PTS for adults with a range of mental health difficulties. Data were analysed using Define-Measure-Analyse model with process mining. Results found that around 11% of clients had pre-therapy psychological distress scores below the clinical cut-off and thus these individuals were unlikely to significantly improve. Clients with fewer cancelled or missed appointments were more likely to significantly improve post-therapy. Pre-therapy psychological distress scores could be a useful factor to consider at assessment for estimating therapy duration, as those with higher scores typically require more sessions. This study concludes that process mining is useful in health services such as NHSCT PTS to provide information to inform caseload planning, service management and resource allocation, with the potential to improve client’s health outcomes.
Microwave coplanar band-stop filters based on electric-LC resonators: systematic numerical approach and experimental validation
Authors: Aldrigo Martino , Zappelli Leonardo , Cismaru Alina , Dragoman Mircea , Iordanescu Sergiu , Mladenovic Damir , Parvulescu Catalin , Joseph C. H. , Mencarelli Davide , Pierantoni Luca , Russo Paola
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we propose a comparative method to analyze a complex microwave structure consisting of a silicon-based coplanar waveguide line and four electric-LC resonators, thus forming a wideband microwave band-stop filter that can be easily integrated at the wafer level together with other devices and sub-systems for large-scale production of high-frequency electronics. A rigorous and careful approach is needed when choosing the proper simulation settings and, as a good rule of thumb, both time and frequency domains should provide the same results. Furthermore, the experimental validation requires supplementary components (like connectors), often ignored when designing an electromagnetic structure highly impacting on the overall performance. In this work, we go in depth into all these issues and show how the right choices in terms of computational parameters can lead to a good agreement with the measurements of the proposed CMOS-compatible band-stop filter in the band 2–18 GHz, with a relative bandwidth of almost 30$$\%$$
%
around the band-stop frequency of 13.2 GHz and a rejection level of − 40 dB.
Topological Manin pairs and $$(n,s)$$-type series
Authors: Abedin Raschid , Maximov Stepan , Stolin Alexander
Published: May 2023

Lie subalgebras of $$ L = {\mathfrak {g}}(\!(x)\!) \times {\mathfrak {g}}[x]/x^n{\mathfrak {g}}[x] $$

L
=
g

(

(
x
)

)

×
g

[
x
]

/

x
n

g

[
x
]

, complementary to the diagonal embedding $$\Delta $$
Δ
of $$ {\mathfrak {g}}[\![x]\!] $$

g
[

[
x
]

]

and Lagrangian with respect to some particular form, are in bijection with formal classical r-matrices and topological Lie bialgebra structures on the Lie algebra of formal power series $$ {\mathfrak {g}}[\![x]\!] $$

g
[

[
x
]

]

. In this work we consider arbitrary subspaces of L complementary to $$\Delta $$
Δ
and associate them with so-called series of type (n, s) . We prove that Lagrangian subspaces are in bijection with skew-symmetric (n, s) -type series and topological quasi-Lie bialgebra structures on $$ {\mathfrak {g}}[\![x]\!] $$

g
[

[
x
]

]

. Using the classificaiton of Manin pairs we classify up to twisting and coordinate transformations all quasi-Lie bialgebra structures. Series of type (n, s) , solving the generalized classical Yang-Baxter equation, correspond to subalgebras of L. We discuss their possible utility in the theory of integrable systems.
Small diameters and generators for arithmetic lattices in $$\textrm{SL}_2(\mathbb {R})$$ and certain Ramanujan graphs
Authors: Steiner Raphael S.
Published: May 2023

We show that arithmetic lattices in $$\textrm{SL}_{2}(\mathbb {R})$$

SL
2

(
R
)

, stemming from the proper units of an Eichler order in an indefinite quaternion algebra over $$\mathbb {Q}$$
Q
, admit a ‘small’ covering set. In particular, we give bounds on the diameter if the quotient space is co-compact. Consequently, we show that these lattices admit small generators. Our techniques also apply to definite quaternion algebras where we show Ramanujan-strength bounds on the diameter of certain Ramanujan graphs without the use of the Ramanujan bound.
Resurrecting the Hume’s Dictum argument against metaethical non-naturalism
Authors: Gordon Noah
Published: May 2023

I argue for the viability of one neglected way of developing supervenience-based objections to metaethical non-naturalism. This way goes through a principle known as ‘Hume’s Dictum’, according to which there are no necessary connections between distinct existences. I challenge several objections to the Hume’s Dictum-based argument. In the course of doing so, I formulate and motivate modest and precise versions of Hume’s Dictum, illustrate how arguments employing these principles might proceed, and argue that the Hume’s Dictum argument enjoys some advantages relative to other supervenience-based objections to non-naturalism.
Amsterdam urban water system as entry point of river plastic pollution
Authors: Tasseron Paolo , Begemann Finn , Joosse Nonna , van der Ploeg Martine , van Driel Joppe , van Emmerik Tim
Published: May 2023

Accumulation of plastic litter in aquatic environments negatively impacts ecosystems and human livelihood. Urban areas are assumed to be the main source of plastic pollution in these environments because of high anthropogenic activity. Yet, the drivers of plastic emissions, abundance, and retention within these systems and subsequent transport to river systems are poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that urban water systems function as major contributors to river plastic pollution, and explore the potential driving factors contributing to the transport dynamics. Monthly visual counting of floating litter at six outlets of the Amsterdam water system results in an estimated 2.7 million items entering the closely connected IJ river annually, ranking it among the most polluting systems measured in the Netherlands and Europe. Subsequent analyses of environmental drivers (including rainfall, sunlight, wind speed, and tidal regimes) and litter flux showed very weak and insignificant correlations (r = $$-$$
-
0.19–0.16), implying additional investigation of potential drivers is required. High-frequency observations at various locations within the urban water system and advanced monitoring using novel technologies could be explored to harmonize and automate monitoring. Once litter type and abundance are well-defined with a clear origin, communication of the results with local communities and stakeholders could help co-develop solutions and stimulate behavioral change geared to reduce plastic pollution in urban environments.
Add-on radioiodine during long-term BRAF/MEK inhibition in patients with RAI-refractory thyroid cancers: a reasonable option?
Authors: Montes de Jesus Filipe Miguel , Espeli Vittoria , Paone Gaetano , Giovanella Luca
Published: May 2023

Dual modulation of the MAPK pathway with BRAF (e.g., dabrafenib) and MEK (e.g., trametinib) inhibitors has the potential to re-establish radioiodine (RAI) sensitivity in BRAF-mutated RAI-refractory (RAI-R)-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) cells. Here we showed that (1) double BRAF/MEK inhibition may still reach a significant redifferentiation in patients with a long-history RAI-R DTC and multiple previous treatments; (2) the addition of high RAI activities may obtain a significant structural response in such patients; and (3) a divergence between increasing thyroglobulin and structural response may be a reliable biomarker or redifferentiation. Accordingly, the add-on prescription of high activities of 131I should be considered in RAI-R patients under multikinase inhibitors with stable or responding structural disease and divergent increase of Tg levels.
Adoption and impacts of improved post-harvest technologies on food security and welfare of maize-farming households in Tanzania: a comparative assessment
Authors: Mutungi Christopher , Manda Julius , Feleke Shiferaw , Abass Adebayo , Bekunda Mateete , Hoschle-Zeledon Irmgard , Fischer Gundula
Published: May 2023

During the last decade, post-harvest losses (PHL) reduction has been topping the agenda of governments as a pathway for addressing food security, poverty, and nutrition challenges in Africa. Using survey data from 579 households, we investigated the factors that affect farmers’ decisions to adopt post-harvest technologies: mechanized shelling, drying tarpaulins, and airtight storage validated for reducing PHL in Tanzania’s maize-based systems, and the impacts on households’ food security and welfare. Mechanized shelling addressed a labor issue, while tarpaulins and airtight storage addressed product quality and quantity concerns. The results revealed large farm sizes and location in higher production potential zones (proxies for higher production scale) and neighbors' use of the technologies as universal drivers for adoption. Access to credit and off-farm income were unique determinants for airtight storage, while group membership increased the probability of adopting drying tarpaulin and airtight storage. The technologies have positive impacts on food security and welfare: drying tarpaulins and airtight storage significantly increased food availability (18–27%), food access (24–26%), and household incomes (112–155%), whereas mechanized shelling improved food and total expenditures by 49% and 68%, respectively. The share of total household expenditure on food decreased by 42%, 11%, and 51% among tarpaulin, mechanized shelling, and airtight storage adopter households, signaling significant improvements in food security and reductions in vulnerability. The results point to the need for policy support to enhance the adoption of these technologies, knowledge sharing among farmers, and financial resources access to support investments in the technologies.
Exploring exploration—how to look for deep-sea minerals
Authors: Trellevik Lars-Kristian Lunde
Published: May 2023

In the spring of 2023, the subsea industry in Norway is gearing up for an opening of the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) for deep-sea mineral exploration and extraction. Existing research indicates that the profitability of deep-sea mining with today's technology heavily depends on high ore grades. This study explores the potential for emerging techno-operational concepts for exploration to affect the profitability of seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) industry on the NCS. By way of computer simulation, the study analyzes technologies currently or soon poised to enter the subsea market concerning their advantage or disadvantage for the SMS industry on the NCS. The study indicates a significant advantage in developing geophysical sampling technology for assessing mineral resources and some advantage in developing unmanned surface vessels for regional surveys. It further indicates that developing fleet-operated autonomous underwater vehicle concepts for high-resolution surveys is not only moot but possibly counterproductive. The study thereby contributes techno-operational insight for a budding industry currently looking for technology to improve commercial prospects.
Farmer responses to an input subsidy and co-learning program: intensification, extensification, specialization, and diversification?
Authors: Marinus Wytze , van de Ven Gerrie WJ , Descheemaeker Katrien , Vanlauwe Bernard , Giller Ken E
Published: May 2023

Sustainable intensification aims to increase production and improve livelihoods of smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. Many farmers, however, are caught in a vicious cycle of low productivity and lack of incentives to invest in agricultural inputs. Moving towards sustainable intensification therefore requires support such as input subsidies and learning about new options through, for instance, co-learning approaches. Yet such support is not straightforward as agricultural developments often diverge from the envisaged pathways: extensification may occur instead of intensification and specialization instead of diversification. Understanding of farmers’ responses to incentives such as input subsidies and new knowledge is lacking. Our overarching aim was to improve this understanding, in order to better support future pathways for agricultural development in smallholder farming. Over five seasons, we compared the responses of farmers in western Kenya taking part in a novel co-learning program we developed, which included provision of an input voucher, with the responses of farmers who only received a voucher. We also assessed the differences before and during the program. We used diverse indicators that were related to the different agricultural development pathways. Farmer responses were mainly a result of the input voucher. Farmers increased maize yields (intensification) and maize area (specialization) for maize self-sufficiency. Increased farm and maize areas in combination with relatively low N application rates also pointed to extensification coupled with the risk of soil N mining. Diversification by increasing the soybean and groundnut area share was facilitated by the integrated co-learning approach, which thereby supported relatively complex farm management changes. Our results highlight the difficulty of enabling yield and production increases, while also meeting environmental and economic goals. The diversity of farmer responses and constraints beyond the farm level underlined the importance of wider socio-economic developments in addition to support of sustainable intensification at farm level.