bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-principles calculations of electronic, magnetic, mechanical and thermoelectric properties of tetragonal Mn2PtSn-Ferromagnetic phase: Ab initio calculations
Authors: El Krimi Y. , Masrour R.
Published: November 2023

We present structural, electronic, magnetic, elastic and transport properties of tetragonal Mn2PtSn (MPS) bulk material in stannite (ST) phase, we will use a FP-LAPW method based on DFT under GGA, TB-mBJ and GGA+U as implemented in the WIEN2k code. From the ferromagnetic state, band structure (spin-down/spin-up channel) calculations reveal an indirect bandgap/zero-bandgap. Mn2PtSn shows inverse tetragonal crystal structures with ferromagnetic spin order at zero temperature. The elastic stability criterion shows that the MPS crystal satisfies the mechanical stability under applied at 0[Formula: see text]GPa. The related mechanical properties such as bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (G), Young’s modulus (E), and Poisson’s ratio ([Formula: see text]) are also studied for polycrystalline of MPS; the calculated B/G value (B/[Formula: see text]) shows that MPS behaves in a ductile manner. Hence, this study of transport properties suggests their potential thermoelectric applications at high temperatures. To our knowledge, the results obtained show that this ternary alloy is advantageous for materials employed in spintronic devices.
Prediction-correction pedestrian flow by means of minimum flow problem
Authors: Ennaji Hamza , Igbida Noureddine , Jradi Ghadir
Published: November 2023

We study a new variant of mathematical prediction-correction model for crowd motion. The prediction phase is handled by a transport equation where the vector field is computed via an eikonal equation [Formula: see text], with a positive continuous function [Formula: see text] connected to the speed of the spontaneous travel. The correction phase is handled by a new version of the minimum flow problem. This model is flexible and can take into account different types of interactions between the agents, from gradient flow in Wassersetin space to granular type dynamics like in sandpile. Furthermore, different boundary conditions can be used, such as non-homogeneous Dirichlet (e.g. outings with different exit-cost penalty) and Neumann boundary conditions (e.g. entrances with different rates). Combining finite volume method for the transport equation and Chambolle–Pock’s primal dual algorithm for the eikonal equation and minimum flow problem, we present numerical simulations to demonstrate the behavior in different scenarios.
On a commuting graph of tiny braids
Authors: Haider Azeem , Hakami Ali H. , Ansari Moin A. , Magrabi Fatimah
Published: November 2023

A positive braid is called tiny when it is a product of generators and each generator being used at most once. We will present a commuting criterion for tiny braids and explore the structure of the centralizer of a tiny braid in the set of positive braid monoids. We will also discuss various combinatorial properties of the centralizer and a few invariants of an associated commuting graph. Finally, we will provide affirmative answers to a couple of open questions related to the commuting graph of tiny braids.
Competing and Sharing: An Analysis of Optimal Pricing and Capacity Sharing Decisions in a Competitive Market
Authors: Issarathipya Pavarit , Amornpetchkul Thunyarat Bam
Published: November 2023

This research investigates the possibility for firms competing in the same market to willingly and profitably share their capacity. We consider two firms selling substitutable products in four different scenarios, according to their competition (non-competing or competing) and capacity sharing (with or without capacity sharing option) situations. In each scenario, each firm’s optimal capacity sharing and retail pricing strategies are characterized. Our results indicate that the two firms are willing to share their capacity only when the capacity selling firm has sufficiently large capacity while the capacity buying firm has sufficiently small capacity. The firms’ relative capacity in turn determine the optimal capacity sharing price, the exchanged capacity sharing quantity, and their retail prices in the market. Going against the common intuition, our results show that it can still be optimal for a firm to sell her capacity to her direct competitor even when she sets a capacity price lower than her retail price (i.e. she makes less per unit of capacity when selling it to the competitor rather than selling it in her own market). Furthermore, capacity sharing can cause the selling firm to willingly lower her retail price despite the smaller capacity she has left after selling some capacity to the competitor. Overall, our research suggests that capacity sharing is a viable and profitable mechanism to help firms selling substitutable products gain more profits and more effectively match their supplies with demand in the market.
Virtual Environment Model Generation for CPS Goal Verification using Imitation Learning
Authors: Shin Yong-Jun , Shin Donghwan , Bae Doo-Hwan
Published: November 2023

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) continuously interact with their physical environments through embedded software controllers that observe the environments and determine actions. Field Operational Tests (FOT) are essential to verify to what extent the CPS under analysis can achieve certain CPS goals, such as satisfying the safety and performance requirements, while interacting with the real operational environment. However, performing many FOTs to obtain statistically significant verification results is challenging due to its high cost and risk in practice. Simulation-based verification can be an alternative to address the challenge, but it still requires an accurate virtual environment model that can replace the real environment interacting with the CPS in a closed loop.

In this article, we propose ENVI (ENVironment Imitation), a novel approach to automatically generate an accurate virtual environment model, enabling efficient and accurate simulation-based CPS goal verification in practice.To do this, we first formally define the problem of the virtual environment model generation and solve it by leveraging Imitation Learning (IL), which has been actively studied in machine learning to learn complex behaviors from expert demonstrations. The key idea behind the model generation is to leverage IL for training a model that imitates the interactions between the CPS controller and its real environment as recorded in (possibly very small) FOT logs. We then statistically verify the goal achievement of the CPS by simulating it with the generated model. We empirically evaluate ENVI by applying it to the verification of two popular autonomous driving assistant systems. The results show that ENVI can reduce the cost of CPS goal verification while maintaining its accuracy by generating accurate environment models from only a few FOT logs. The use of IL in virtual environment model generation opens new research directions, further discussed at the end of the article.
A Softwarized Intrusion Detection System for IoT-Enabled Smart Healthcare System
Authors: Javeed Danish , Gao Tianhan , Saeed Muhammad Shahid , Kumar Prabhat , Kumar Randhir , Jolfaei Alireza
Published: November 2023

The Internet of Things-enabled Smart Healthcare System (IoT-SHS) is a networked infrastructure of intelligent wearables, software applications, health systems, and services that continuously monitors and transmits patient-sensitive data using an open wireless channel. The conventional security mechanisms are unsuitable for detecting attacks in the dynamic IoT-SHS context due to resource limitations and heterogeneity in low-cost healthcare devices. Deep Learning (DL) solutions for Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and softwarization of the network has the potential to achieve secure network services in the IoT-SHS environment. Motivated by the aforementioned discussion, we propose an intelligent softwarized IDS for protecting the critical infrastructure of the IoT-SHS ecosystem. Specifically, the DL-based IDS is designed using a hybrid cuda Long Short-Term Memory Deep Neural Network (cuLSTM-DNN) algorithm to assist network administrators in efficient decision-making for the generated intrusions. To further bolster the system’s resilience, we suggest a deployment architecture for the proposed CUDA-powered IDS using OpenStack Tacker in a real SDN environment, ensuring that virtual machines can directly utilize the host’s NVIDIA GPU, thereby streamlining and enhancing the network’s operational efficiency. The experimental results using the CICDDoS2019 dataset confirm the effectiveness of the proposed framework over some baseline and recent state-of-the-art techniques.
Facile Electrochemical Determination of Nilutamide with the Fabrication of Nickel-Aluminum Layered Double Hydroxide as an Efficient Electrocatalyst
Authors: Ragumoorthy Chandini , Nataraj Nandini , Chen Shen-Ming , Tharuman Sharmila
Published: November 2023

Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs), a class of anionic clays have garnered significant attention as a potential electrochemical active material. Due to their unique properties such as high surface area, high electrical conductivity, improved active sites, and tunable capability, they have been extensively used in the field of electrochemical sensors. On the other hand, nilutamide (NLD) is an anti-androgen drug used for the treatment of prostate cancer. However, excessive usage can lead to severe effects, thus making it essential for sensitive and selective NLD detection in the environment. Herein, we have prepared nickel aluminum (NiAl) LDH as an efficient electrode material for the electrochemical detection of nilutamide (NLD). The NiAl-LDH was obtained by a simple coprecipitation method. The physicochemical analysis was carried out using various analytical techniques including XRD, FT-IR, XPS, and Raman, which confirmed its successful formation. Further, FESEM and TEM analysis of NiAl-LDH were exhibited to prove the topological structures of the as-prepared material. The glassy carbon electrode was modified with the prepared NiAl-LDH and its electrochemical performance was studied with cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) techniques. The modified NiAl-LDH/GCE displayed excellent electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of NLD at −0.55 V with a wide linear range of 0.029–1543.8 μM. It also exhibits a lower detection limit of 0.005 μM with a sensitivity of 15.64 μA μM−1 cm−2. Moreover, other potential interfering compounds showed no interference effect on NLD sensing. Also, the detection of NLD in spiked river water samples verified the fabricated electrode’s real-time applicability.
Comparing Cycling and Rate Response of SnO2 Macroporous Anodes in Lithium-Ion and Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Grant Alex , Carroll Aoife , Zhang Yan , Gulzar Umair , Ahad Syed Abdul , Geaney Hugh , O’Dwyer Colm
Published: November 2023

Tin oxide (SnO2) is a useful anode material due to its high capacity (1493 mAh g−1 and 1378 mAh g−1 vs Li/Li+ and vs Na/Na+, respectively) and natural abundance (tin is one of the thirty most abundant elements on Earth). Unfortunately, only moderate electrical conductivity and significant volume expansion of up to 300% for Li-ion, and as much as 520% for Na-ion can occur. Here, we use an ordered macroporous interconnected inverse opal (IO) architectures to enhance rate capability, structural integrity, and gravimetric capacity, without conductive additives and binders. Excellent capacity retention is shown during cycling vs Na/Na+ relative to Li/Li+. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis, galvanostatic cycling, and differential capacity analysis extracted from rate performance testing evidence the irreversibility of the oxidation of metallic Sn to SnO2 during charge. This behavior allows for a very stable electrode during cycling at various rates. A stable voltage profile and rate performance is demonstrated for both systems. In a Na-ion half cell, the SnO2 retained >76% capacity after 100 cycles, and a similar retention after rate testing.
Elevation of H3K27me3 level contributes to the radioresistance of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by inhibiting OAS1 expression
Authors: Zhou Yuchuan , Xiao Yuqi , Liu Hongxia , Chen Qianping , Zhu Lin , Zeng Liang , Liu Xinglong , Pan Yan , Zhang Jianghong , Fu Jiamei , Shao Chunlin
Published: November 2023

Our findings revealed for the first time that the increase of H3K27me3 level was associated with the decrease of OAS1 expression, leading to the inhibition of apoptosis and ultimately contributing to the radioresistance of NPC cells. Moreover, we demonstrated that the histone methyltransferase inhibitor GSK126 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for NPC by overcoming radioresistance, providing valuable insights into the clinical treatment of NPC.
Adult Bovine-Derived Small and Large Intestinal Organoids: In Vitro Development and Maintenance
Authors: Kawasaki Minae , Dykstra Gerald D. , McConnel Craig S. , Burbick Claire R. , Ambrosini Yoko M.
Published: November 2023

Recent progress in bovine intestinal organoid research has expanded opportunities for creating improved in vitro models to study intestinal physiology and pathology. However, the establishment of a culture condition capable of generating organoids from all segments of the cattle intestine has remained elusive. Although previous research has described the development of bovine jejunal, ileal, and colonic organoids, this study marks the first report of successful bovine duodenal and rectal organoid development. Maintenance of these organoids through serial passages and cryopreservation was achieved, with higher success rates observed in large intestinal organoids compared to their small intestinal counterparts. A novel approach involving the use of biopsy forceps during initial tissue sampling streamlined the subsequent tissue processing, simplifying the procedure compared to previously established protocols in cattle. In addition, our study introduced a more cost-effective culture medium based on advanced DMEM/F12, diverging from frequently used commercially available organoid culture media. This enhancement improves the accessibility to organoid technology by reducing culture costs. Crucially, the derived organoids from the jejunum, ileum, colon, and rectum faithfully preserved the structural, cellular, and genetic characteristics of the in vivo intestinal tissue. This research underscores the significant potential of adult bovine intestinal organoids as a physiologically and morphologically relevant in vitro model. Such organoids provide a renewable and sustainable resource for a broad spectrum of studies, encompassing investigations into normal intestinal physiology in cattle and the intricate host-pathogen interactions of clinically and economically significant enteric pathogens.
In Vitro Coexposure of Silymarin with Lithium Chloride Preserves Human Sperm Quality: A Useful Approach to Reduce Oxidative Damages
Authors: Nasimi Zahra , Momeni Hamid Reza , Etemadi Tahereh , Darbandi Niloufar
Published: November 2023

Lithium, a common component in various mood-stabilizing drugs, induces adverse effects on spermatozoa and human fertility. Oxidative stress, as a possible mechanism involved in lithium toxicity, can be reversed using antioxidants. Therefore, in this study, the effects of silymarin as a potent antioxidant were evaluated on human spermatozoa treated with lithium. Human spermatozoa were divided into five groups: (1) spermatozoa at 0 min, (2) spermatozoa at 180 min (control group), (3) spermatozoa treated with lithium chloride (500 μM) for 180 min, (4) spermatozoa were treated with silymarin (100 μM) + lithium chloride (500 μM) for 180 min, and (5) spermatozoa treated with silymarin (100 μM) for 180 min. Sperm motility and viability, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase) were evaluated in these groups. The results showed that sperm motility and viability significantly (

p
 
<
0.001

) decreased in the group treated with lithium. In addition, a significant increase (

p
 
<
0.001

) was observed in MDA levels, while FRAP amount and the activity of antioxidant enzymes decreased significantly (

p
 
<
0.001

) in this group. Interestingly, these results were significantly (

p
 
<
0.001

) reversed in the group treated with silymarin + lithium. The finding of the present study showed that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in lithium toxicity in human spermatozoa, and the coapplication of silymarin as a potent antioxidant with lithium can protect human sperm against oxidative stress-induced damage.
Mapping Collaboration and Coordination of Health and Care Services for Older People with Dementia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Österholm Johannes , Larsson Ranada Åsa , Nedlund Ann-Charlotte
Published: November 2023

Responsibility for health and care services for people with dementia is often divided between various professionals, agencies, and authorities, causing a fragmentation of care and an unclear division of responsibility between different stakeholders. In relation to this, collaboration and coordination of health and care services are often described as vital for catering to diverse needs and to provide adequate support. The aim of this scoping review was to map how different health and care agencies collaborate and coordinate services for older people with dementia. Joanna Briggs Institute’s proposed methodology for scoping reviews was used, and systematic searches were carried out in six databases. A total of 59 articles published within the last 10 years were included based on certain eligibility criteria. The Research Pyramid was used to critically appraise these articles, suggesting that available research is of moderate quality. The descriptive content analysis of the articles revealed eight categories describing the characteristics of collaboration and coordination for people with dementia, as presented in previous articles. These characteristics are described in terms of different barriers, the function of the care coordinator, assessment and planning to provide services, interprofessional collaboration, information sharing, knowledge needed to navigate a complex health and care system and understanding of dementia, and personalisation of care. Engaging care coordinators with diverse competencies to address both medical and social care needs is essential, especially since people with dementia experience multiple and complex needs. It is also important to explain and visualise available services and when these services are suitable for implementation. Knowledge about dementia is necessary to empower people with dementia in everyday life situations.
Association of Vitamin D with Severity and Outcome of COVID-19: Clinical and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Renieris Georgios , Foutadakis Spyros , Andriopoulou Theano , Spanou Victoria-Marina , Droggiti Dionyssia-Eirini , Kafousopoulos Dionysios , Gkavogianni Theologia , Damoraki Georgia , Vatsellas Giannis , Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The role of vitamin in COVID-19 remains controversial. We investigated the association between endogenous vitamin D and the severity of COVID-19 as well as the mechanisms of action of vitamin D supplementation. Methods: 25(OH)D3 in serum was associated with disease severity and outcome in 190 COVID-19 patients. In a COVID-19 animal model using intravenous injection of plasma from patients with COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome into C57/BL6 mice, mice were treated with 0.25 μg human 1,25(OH)D3 or vehicle. Mice were sacrificed on day 4. Cytokines and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in tissues were measured. Changes in gene expression after vitamin D supplementation were measured. Results: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were associated with increased severity and unfavorable outcome after 28 days. Vitamin D levels were negatively associated with biomarkers of COVID-19 severity. Vitamin D supplementation after challenge of mice with COVID-19 plasma led to reduced levels of TNFα, IL-6, IFNγ, and MPO in the lung, as well as down-regulation of pro-inflammatory pathways. Conclusion: Normal levels of endogenous vitamin D are associated with reduced severity and risk of unfavorable outcome in COVID-19, possibly through attenuation of tissue-specific hyperinflammation.
Diagnostic Immunocytostaining with Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-Gamma in Urine Cytology Samples
Authors: Tanaka Shinichi , Tokuhara Yasunori , Ariyasu Sanae , Morinishi Tatsuya , Yamamoto Tamami , Teramoto Norihiro , Hirakawa Eiichiro
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Urine cytology is a common method for detection of urothelial carcinoma (UC), however, is not high sensitivity. Improvement of the accuracy of cytodiagnosis using immunocytostaining as an auxiliary method is needed. This study aimed to determine the cytodiagnostic usefulness of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) immunocytostaining in urine cytology for the detection of UCs, particularly low-grade urothelial carcinomas (LGUC). Methods: PPAR-γ immunocytostaining was performed for 37 UC cases and 26 benign cases. Among the UC cases, 22 cases were of the papillary proliferation type, not including the mixed type comprising both papillary and flat growth. Fifteen LGUC cases of all papillary proliferation types were included. For comparison, the same samples were also immunocytostained for p53 and Ki-67. Results: Of the UC cases, 25 of 37 were positive for PPAR-γ, while 24 of the 26 benign cases were PPAR-γ-negative. Regardless of histological grading, 13 of the 22 UC cases with papillary proliferation were PPAR-γ-positive. In particular, PPAR-γ immunocytostaining showed higher sensitivity for LGUC cases than that of the other biomarkers. Regarding LGUC specifically, 4 of 10 cases not identified by primary cytology were detected by PPAR-γ immunocytostaining. Conclusion: PPAR-γ immunocytostaining enhances the accuracy of urine cytodiagnosis. Furthermore, PPAR-γ is a more useful immunobiomarker in urine cytology than p53 and Ki-67, the commonly used immunobiomarkers for malignant cell detection.
Translation and Validation of the Dutch Version of the Sun Exposure and Protection Index
Authors: Knipping Sofie , ter Haar Elke , Alkemade Hans , Bronkhorst Ewald , Falk Magnus , Hueskes Kevin , Nij Bijvank Carla , Spillekom-van Koulil Saskia , Lubeek Satish
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Skin cancer is currently the most common cancer type worldwide, and numbers are rapidly increasing. To improve primary prevention, individualised prevention strategies may be of interest as this enhances the chance of long-term behavioural change. The Sun Exposure and Protection Index (SEPI), previously validated in multiple languages, is a tool that could help identify individuals with risky behaviour and tailor interventions to the person’s propensity to change. The aim of the present study was to investigate the reliability and validity of a Dutch version of the SEPI for both usage in daily clinical practice and research. Methods: Patients were included at primary care settings and dermatology outpatient settings in a 1:1 ratio. Participants were asked to fill out the SEPI together with some baseline characteristics and the previously validated FACE-Q Skin Cancer – Sun Protection module. Construct validity was tested by comparing SEPI part I and the FACE-Q module using Spearman’s Rho. Internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach’s Alpha for both SEPI parts separately. To assess test-retest reliability, the SEPI was again filled out 3 weeks later, and scores were compared with Cohen’s weighted Kappa. Results: Of the 171 participants completing the first questionnaire, 147 (86.0%) participants also completed the follow-up questionnaire. Comparison between the corresponding SEPI part I and FACE-Q module questions showed good correlations regarding sun exposure habits (correlation coefficients ranging from 0.61 to 0.85). Internal consistency of SEPI part I was 0.63 and SEPI part II was 0.65. The test-retest analysis indicated reproducibility over time (weighted Kappa ranging from 0.38 to 0.76). Conclusion: In conclusion, the Dutch version of the SEPI is shown to be a valid and reliable tool for both usages in daily clinical practice and research to evaluate individual ultraviolet exposure and measure a person’s propensity to limit it.
Behavioral and Neural Correlates of Visual Working Memory Reveal Metacognitive Aspects of Mental Imagery
Authors: Bates Kathryn E. , Smith Marie L. , Farran Emily K. , Machizawa Maro G.
Published: November 2023

Mental imagery (MI) is the ability to generate visual phenomena in the absence of sensory input. MI is often likened to visual working memory (VWM): the ability to maintain and manipulate visual representations. How MI is recruited during VWM is yet to be established. In a modified orientation change-discrimination task, we examined how behavioral (proportion correct) and neural (contralateral delay activity [CDA]) correlates of precision and capacity map onto subjective ratings of vividness and number of items in MI within a VWM task. During the maintenance period, 17 participants estimated the vividness of their MI or the number of items held in MI while they were instructed to focus on either precision or capacity of their representation and to retain stimuli at varying set sizes (1, 2, and 4). Vividness and number ratings varied over set sizes; however, subjective ratings and behavioral performance correlated only for vividness rating at set size 1. Although CDA responded to set size as was expected, CDA did not reflect subjective reports on high and low vividness and on nondivergent (reported the probed number of items in mind) or divergent (reported number of items diverged from probed) rating trials. Participants were more accurate in low set sizes compared with higher set sizes and in coarse (45°) orientation changes compared with fine (15°) orientation changes. We failed to find evidence for a relationship between the subjective sensory experience of precision and capacity of MI and the precision and capacity of VWM.
Sensory Drive Modifies Brain Dynamics and the Temporal Integration Window
Authors: Karvat Golan , Ofir Nir , Landau Ayelet N.
Published: November 2023

Perception is suggested to occur in discrete temporal windows, clocked by cycles of neural oscillations. An important testable prediction of this theory is that individuals' peak frequencies of oscillations should correlate with their ability to segregate the appearance of two successive stimuli. An influential study tested this prediction and showed that individual peak frequency of spontaneously occurring alpha (8–12 Hz) correlated with the temporal segregation threshold between two successive flashes of light [Samaha, J., & Postle, B. R. The speed of alpha-band oscillations predicts the temporal resolution of visual perception. Current Biology, 25, 2985–2990, 2015]. However, these findings were recently challenged [Buergers, S., & Noppeney, U. The role of alpha oscillations in temporal binding within and across the senses. Nature Human Behaviour, 6, 732–742, 2022]. To advance our understanding of the link between oscillations and temporal segregation, we devised a novel experimental approach. Rather than relying entirely on spontaneous brain dynamics, we presented a visual grating before the flash stimuli that is known to induce continuous oscillations in the gamma band (45–65 Hz). By manipulating the contrast of the grating, we found that high contrast induces a stronger gamma response and a shorter temporal segregation threshold, compared to low-contrast trials. In addition, we used a novel tool to characterize sustained oscillations and found that, for half of the participants, both the low- and high-contrast gratings were accompanied by a sustained and phase-locked alpha oscillation. These participants tended to have longer temporal segregation thresholds. Our results suggest that visual stimulus drive, reflected by oscillations in specific bands, is related to the temporal resolution of visual perception.
Multi-modal Representation of the Size of Space in the Human Brain
Authors: Lee Jaeeun , Park Soojin
Published: November 2023

To estimate the size of an indoor space, we must analyze the visual boundaries that limit the spatial extent and acoustic cues from reflected interior surfaces. We used fMRI to examine how the brain processes the geometric size of indoor scenes when various types of sensory cues are presented individually or together. Specifically, we asked whether the size of space is represented in a modality-specific way or in an integrative way that combines multimodal cues. In a block-design study, images or sounds that depict small- and large-sized indoor spaces were presented. Visual stimuli were real-world pictures of empty spaces that were small or large. Auditory stimuli were sounds convolved with different reverberations. By using a multivoxel pattern classifier, we asked whether the two sizes of space can be classified in visual, auditory, and visual–auditory combined conditions. We identified both sensory-specific and multimodal representations of the size of space. To further investigate the nature of the multimodal region, we specifically examined whether it contained multimodal information in a coexistent or integrated form. We found that angular gyrus and the right medial frontal gyrus had modality-integrated representation, displaying sensitivity to the match in the spatial size information conveyed through image and sound. Background functional connectivity analysis further demonstrated that the connection between sensory-specific regions and modality-integrated regions increases in the multimodal condition compared with single modality conditions. Our results suggest that spatial size perception relies on both sensory-specific and multimodal representations, as well as their interplay during multimodal perception.
Multiple Historic Trajectories Generate Multiplicity in the Concept of Validity
Authors: Han Yingying
Published: November 2023

Although researchers agree on the importance of validity, they have not yet reached a consensus on what validity consists of. This article traces the historic trajectories of validity theory development in three research traditions: psychometrics, experiment in social settings, and animal models of psychiatric disorders, showing that the multiplicity in the concept of validity is shaped by its multiple historic trajectories and reflects the diversity of practices and concerns in different research traditions. I argue that specifying validity of what target practice and for what purpose in discussions helps to connect validity to its rich context that gives rise to its specific meaning and relevance.
Three new species of Micropsalliota (Agaricaceae, Basidiomycota) from central and southern Vietnam
Authors: IVANOVA DARIA , MOROZOVA OLGA , PHAM THI HA GIANG
Published: November 2023

Data on the species diversity of the genus Micropsalliota in Vietnam is still insufficient. In the current paper, three new species with small basidiomata (M. appendiculata, M. inflata, and M. suricatoides) are collected from Dong Nai and Gia Lai provinces of Vietnam, and identified based on morphological and molecular data. Micropsalliota appendiculata is characterized by an appendiculate margin of pileus, M. inflata – by red pileus and inflated pileipellis hyphae cells, and M. suricatoides possesses beige pileus with brown fibrils and stipitipellis hyphae with capitate apices. The study is provided with photographs of basidiomata, illustrations, descriptions of macro- and micromorphological features, and phylogenetic trees to show the position of the three new species. Discussion on similar taxa is also given.
Epidendrum scandens: an unusual new orchid species endemic to the Cordillera de Talamanca in Costa Rica
Authors: KARREMANS ADAM P. , ROJAS-ALVARADO GUSTAVO , CHINCHILLA ISLER F.
Published: November 2023

We describe and illustrate a new species of Epidendrum from the montane forests on the Cordillera de Talamanca, in Costa Rica. Epidendrum scandens is unusually among the ‘Rugosum subgroup’ of ‘Ramosum group’ in the plants forming large mats, composed of elongate, scandent, climbing stems that are notoriously branching and flexuous, becoming liana-like. The 2–3-flowered inflorescence is extremely discrete in relation to the stem, it bears typical yellowish-green flowers partially hidden by large floral bracts. The triangular lip is unusual in the conspicuous apical thickening. A taxonomic description, illustration, distribution map and conservation status are provided for the new species.
Lepidium weigendii (Brassicaceae), a new species from southern Peru
Authors: AL-SHEHBAZ IHSAN A.
Published: November 2023

N/A
Constraining the Pattern and Magnitude of Projected Extreme Precipitation Change in a Multimodel Ensemble
Authors: Kotz Maximilian , Lange Stefan , Wenz Leonie , Levermann Anders
Published: November 2023

Projections of precipitation extremes over land are crucial for socioeconomic risk assessments, yet model discrepancies limit their application. Here we use a pattern-filtering technique to identify low-frequency changes in individual members of a multimodel ensemble to assess discrepancies across models in the projected pattern and magnitude of change. Specifically, we apply low-frequency component analysis (LFCA) to the intensity and frequency of daily precipitation extremes over land in 21 CMIP-6 models. LFCA brings modest but statistically significant improvements in the agreement between models in the spatial pattern of projected change, particularly in scenarios with weak greenhouse forcing. Moreover, we show that LFCA facilitates a robust identification of the rates at which increasing precipitation extremes scale with global temperature change within individual ensemble members. While these rates approximately match expectations from the Clausius-Clapeyron relation on average across models, individual models exhibit considerable and significant differences. Monte Carlo simulations indicate that these differences contribute to uncertainty in the magnitude of projected change at least as much as differences in the climate sensitivity. Last, we compare these scaling rates with those identified from observational products, demonstrating that virtually all climate models significantly underestimate the rates at which increases in precipitation extremes have scaled with global temperatures historically. Constraining projections with observations therefore amplifies the projected intensification of precipitation extremes as well as reducing the relative error of their distribution.
What They Are Fighting For – Introducing the UCDP Conflict Issues Dataset
Authors: Brosché Johan , Sundberg Ralph
Published: November 2023

Although conflict issues – the stated goals of actors engaged in conflict – hold a privileged position in many theoretical explanations of the occurrence, dynamics, and resolution of civil war, global issue data are scarce beyond datasets that focus on specific thematic areas. This article aims to bring issues into the forefront of civil war scholarship by presenting the UCDP Conflict Issues Dataset (CID). This global yearly dataset contains 14,832 conflict issues – divided, at the most disaggregated level, into 120 sub-categories – raised by armed non-state groups involved in intrastate armed conflict in 1989-2017. By bringing issues back in, the UCDP CID provides opportunities to reevaluate several central questions about the onset, duration, intensity, and resolution of civil war.
On Shaky Ground: Stigma and Otherness in Direct-to-Consumer Advertising for Bipolar Disorder Drug Treatments
Authors: Walker Tara
Published: November 2023

Along with rising diagnoses for bipolar spectrum disorders, direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertisements for bipolar disorder treatments have increased in recent years. This study textually analyzes 25 ads from the brands Vraylar, Caplyta, and Latuda based on the theory and method of Hall, and supported by the work of Goffman and Thoits on stigma. Findings show that ads embodied the ambivalence associated with the spectacle of the other. Additionally, ads largely ignored the stigma of bipolar disorder, placing emphasis on the “in-between” phase where protagonists receive treatment. This emphasis on the “in-between” often creates a fetishized view of the protagonist with ill mental health.
Differences in Sociodemographic Characteristics and Treatment Refusal Between Lone and Multiple Perpetrator Rapists
Authors: Gimenez-Salinas Andrea , Perez Ramirez Meritxell , Ruiz Alvarado Alfredo , Pozuelo Rubio Florencia
Published: November 2023

Studies that compare lone and multiple perpetrator rape offenders often use police files. This study explores the differences between lone and multiple perpetrator rapists using a sample of 172 convicted sexual offenders. The first objective is to explore sociodemographic differences between the two groups of perpetrators. Differences are found in offenders’ age, the use of drugs or alcohol, the release phase, sexual behavior, the use of a vehicle, the place and time of the assault, and victim characteristics. The second objective is to explore differences between the two groups regarding the number of perpetrators. No differences are found, except for the presence of a leader in groups of three or more perpetrators. Finally, no differences are found regarding treatment variables (responsibility assumption, treatment program participation, program dropout or expulsion, and reconviction rates) that support a different profile for the purpose of intervention.
The Implications of Stress Among Correctional Officers: A Summary of the Risks and Promising Intervention Strategies
Authors: Schwartz Joseph A. , Granger Douglas A. , Calvi Jessica L. , Jodis Christopher A. , Steiner Benjamin
Published: November 2023

This paper provides a detailed summary and discussion of the concept of stress and how it relates to the health, wellbeing, and performance of corrections officers. In line with these objectives, we focus on three areas: (1) providing a more detailed definition of the concept of stress; (2) a discussion of the ways that increased exposure to stress may impact corrections officers’ physical and mental health; and (3) a summary of prevention and intervention strategies that are relevant for corrections officers and have shown promise in dampening the consequences of increased stress exposure. More in-depth knowledge of the concept of stress and the underlying processes that link stress to negative outcomes will provide policy makers and corrections departments with an understanding of the characteristics of prevention and intervention strategies that are expected to be most effective in limiting the consequences of stress.
‘A proposal for research in the epidemiology of psychiatric disorders’, by Alexander H Leighton (1950)
Authors: Delille Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

The Classic Text is an outline of the Stirling County Study as conceptualized by Alexander H Leighton. It was first presented at a conference held in 1949 organized by the Milbank Memorial Fund, an American philanthropic foundation. The meeting brought together 30–40 experts from across North America. Leighton succinctly explained his frame of reference for the epidemiology of mental disorders and the methodology of the community-based study he conducted in Nova Scotia. The introduction to the text explains contextual points, certain specificities of Leighton’s framework, and the discussions that surrounded it, largely dominated by a group of Harvard professors, including Erich Lindemann and John E Gordon.
HIF-1α-Induced Mitophagy Regulates the Regenerative Outcomes of Stem Cells in Fat Transplantation
Authors: Zhang Kai , Jin Dan , Zhao Xin , Lu Bin , Guo Weiwei , Ren Rui , Wu Simo , Zhang Junrui , Li Yunpeng
Published: November 2023

Hypoxia is a crucial factor with type diversity that plays an important role in stem cell transplantation. However, the effects of hypoxia on adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are largely unclear in the autologous fat transplantation (AFT) model, which shows a special type of “acute-progressively resolving hypoxia.” Here, an AFT model in nude mice and a hypoxic culture model for ADSCs were combined to explore the link between hypoxia-inducible factor-1 α subunit (HIF-1α) and mitophagy under hypoxic conditions. The results showed that the activity of ADSCs in the first 7 days after grafting was the key stage for volume retention, and the expression of HIF-1α, light chain 3 beta (LC3B), and Beclin1 in ADSCs increased during this period. We also found that hypoxia for longer than 48 h damaged the differentiation and mitochondrial respiration of ADSCs in vitro, but hypoxia signals also activate HIF-1α to initiate mitophagy and maintain the activities of ADSCs. Pre-enhancing mitophagy by rapamycin effectively improves mitochondrial respiration in ADSCs after grafting and ultimately improves AFT outcomes.
Book review: Bouquet of Stories and Essays
Authors: Rath Arnapurna
Published: November 2023

Bibudhendra Narayan Patnaik, Life’s Little Tales. Bhubhaneswar: Sikshasandhan, 2022. 175 pp., ₹195.
A Lasting Impression: Exploring the Meaningfulness of a Singular Moment
Authors: van Manen Michael
Published: November 2023

How do we explore the meaning and meaningfulness of a singular event that lives on with us as a lasting impression? What are the initial beginnings and final endings of such living moments? How do we make sense of the significance of events that are so meaningful that they have become a lasting impression. This paper focuses on the phenomenology of such lasting impressions, by drawing on an exemplary anecdote about parental bereavement in newborn intensive care. The phenomenological intent is to determine the depth and magnitude of moments that as healthcare providers we may all too easily miss. As well, the methodological intent is to show how as researchers we can engage in a qualitative manner with empirically obtained experiential material.
Agricultural identity of Indigenous Salasacas in Ecuador
Authors: Lamino Jaramillo Pablo , Boren-Alpízar Amy E
Published: November 2023

Latin America’s Indigenous are as varied as the place they live in and focus on past, beliefs, and culture. In Ecuador, the Indigenous Salasacas are famous for being strict in their cultural preservation, language, customs, agricultural practices, and costumes, which are considered unique. This ethnographic study aimed to understand the Salasacas’s agricultural identity across different generations and reports the experiences and perceptions of 12 Salasacas participants. Participants reported that many Salasacas have changed from agriculture to other economic activities, such as textiles, due to the limited agricultural programs and the influence of Hispanic culture. Participants informed the researchers that cultural pride and unity are fundamental Salasacas traits. They encourage new generations to continue studying to overcome racial issues with academic preparation. Program implementers must know how to honor Indigenous knowledge while introducing new knowledge and consider participants’ characteristics, such as age and gender, which is imperative for successful outcomes.
The influence of near-wall heat sources with different configurations on particle deposition in a small-scale chamber
Authors: Chen Xi , Qin Miaomiao , Gao Yahui , Liu Yang , Yang Liu
Published: November 2023

Understanding the coupling effect of multiple factors on particle deposition above the near-wall heat source is vital for human health, manufacturing, treasure protection and so on. This study investigated the concentrations and decay rate loss coefficient of particles in an experimental chamber with different heat-source configurations. Thirty-nine cases were created by changing the surface temperature and the shape of the near-wall heat source as well as the angular velocity of the six-bladed fan. The results reveal that the temperature, relative humidity, air velocity and the shape of the near-wall heat sources all exhibit different degrees of influence on the particle deposition. Also, the impacts of these factors on particle deposition on the vertical wall above near-wall heat sources can be further influenced by the size and location of particles.
PM2.5 bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in an Indian residential indoor air environment and their health risk
Authors: Goel Sangita Ghatge , Somwanshi Shashank , Kashyap Sanjay , Gupta Rajesh
Published: November 2023

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of semi-volatile organic pollutants with 2–7 aromatic rings are emitted in association with particulates/gases from incomplete combustion. They are persistent and affect human health adversely. This is the first study wherein PM2.5 bound PAHs from 8 different indoor air pollution sources, namely dhoop (DH1, DH2), incense sticks (IS1, IS2), cigarette, mosquito coil and solid fuels ‘coal and wood’, that are widely used in South-Asian countries were studied. Their emission rates and concentration profiles were compared. Dhoop was studied for the first time and found to be emitting the highest quantity of total PAHs. FLA/(FLA + PYR) ratio rightly indicated ingredients like wood and grass as sources. However, other ratios indicated petrogenic/coal origin, while BaP/(BaP + CHR) and BaA/(BaA + CHR) ratios were not reported earlier. The highest Toxicity Equivalent Concentration and Mutagenic Equivalent Concentration were estimated for DH2 and the lowest for cigarette smoke. The maximum Inhalation Lifetime Cancer Risk equal to 1.85 × 10−05 (adults) was observed for DH2, exceeding the WHO guidelines. These inferences will help in optimizing the indoor sources’ combustion duration and formulating manmade indoor sources. They will assist in identifying high-risk indoor environments, causative sources and control mechanisms.
Domestic service and Chilean literature: fictional experiments in narrating the household
Authors: Sánchez-Russo Daniella
Published: November 2023

This article shines light on the interconnectedness of reproductive labour and Latin American literature through two Chilean novels that explore the relationship between peripheral capitalism and domestic servitude: José Donoso's The Obscene Bird of Night and Diamela Eltit's Mano de Obra. The study of these texts allows for a periodisation of the reproductive sphere under different phases of capitalist accumulation, and exposes an association between the literary treatment of domestic service and the achievement of highly experimental narratives in Latin America. My reading of Obscene goes beyond viewing this novel as postmodernist fiction, by showing how its nightmarish poetics are a consequence of the transformation of the oligarchic household vis-a-vis the collapse of systems of bonded labour in the 1960s. Whereas the prose of Obscene provides a harrowing descent into the intimate connections between master and servant at the moment of their decline, Mano de Obra unveils a surgical prose capable of expressing the new impersonality of social reproduction in the subsequent neoliberal period. Of special interest to this analysis is how Eltit suggests that even the proletariat household can recreate exploitative patterns of domestic servitude to guard against complete immiseration. Three main conclusions result from this reading. First, Latin American fiction is an important literary archive from which capitalism's exploitation of the reproductive sphere can be excavated. Second, Latin American literature shows formal uniqueness when representing domestic service in the periphery. Lastly, fictional representations of domestic service help us understand the institution not as remnant of previous modes of production, but as capitalist strategy for the reproduction of social forces that underpay the cost of life-making processes.