bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Something About Rhythm
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

The concept of rhythm is compared with bar, meter, cadence (G. Hegel, F. Couperin) and tempo (W. Landowska). Rhythmic organisation can be seen in ancient poetic composition. Melodic rhythm expresses the true accents of the music. Also, there is a demonstration of the energetic quality of musical movement illustrated by a recording of Rondino by Jean Sibelius (Op. 81, No. 2) for oboe and piano, with the author playing oboe.
A plethora of long-range neutrino interactions probed by DUNE and T2HK
Authors: Agarwalla Sanjib Kumar , Bustamante Mauricio , Singh Masoom , Swain Pragyanprasu
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Upcoming neutrino experiments will soon search for new neutrino interactions more thoroughly than ever before, boosting the prospects of extending the Standard Model. In anticipation of this, we forecast the capability of two of the leading long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiments, DUNE and T2HK, to look for new flavor-dependent neutrino interactions with electrons, protons, and neutrons that could affect the transitions between different flavors. We interpret their sensitivity in the context of long-range neutrino interactions, mediated by a new neutral boson lighter than 10−10 eV, and sourced by the vast amount of nearby and distant matter in the Earth, Moon, Sun, Milky Way, and beyond. For the first time, we explore the sensitivity of DUNE and T2HK to a wide variety of U(1)′ symmetries, built from combinations of lepton and baryon numbers, each of which induces new interactions that affect oscillations differently. We find ample sensitivity: in all cases, DUNE and T2HK may constrain the existence of the new interaction even if it is supremely feeble, may discover it, and, in some cases, may identify the symmetry responsible for it.
Infinite and finite consistent truncations on deformed generalised parallelisations
Authors: Blair Chris D. A. , Pico Martín , Varela Oscar
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Given a manifold $$ \mathbbm{M} $$
M
admitting a maximally supersymmetric consistent truncation, we show how to formulate new consistent truncations by restricting to a set of Kaluza-Klein modes on $$ \mathbbm{M} $$
M
invariant under some subgroup of the group of isometries of $$ \mathbbm{M} $$
M
. These truncations may involve either finite or infinite sets of modes. We provide their global description using exceptional generalised geometry to construct a ‘deformed’ generalised parallelisation starting with that on $$ \mathbbm{M} $$
M
. This allows us to explicitly embed known consistent truncations directly into exceptional generalised geometry/exceptional field theory, and to obtain the equations governing situations where the consistent truncation retains an infinite tower of modes.
Revising pathogenesis of AP1S1-related MEDNIK syndrome: a missense variant in the AP1S1 gene as a causal genetic lesion
Authors: Rackova Marketa , Mattera Rafael , Svaton Michael , Fencl Filip , Kanderova Veronika , Spicakova Karolina , Park Sang Yoon , Fabian Ondrej , Koblizek Miroslav , Fronkova Eva , Bonifacino Juan S. , Skvarova Kramarzova Karolina
Published: September 2024

MEDNIK syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by mental retardation, enteropathy, deafness, peripheral neuropathy, ichthyosis, and keratoderma, and caused by variants in the adaptor-related protein complex 1 subunit sigma 1 (AP1S1) gene. This gene encodes the σ1A protein, which is a subunit of the adaptor protein complex 1 (AP-1), a key component of the intracellular protein trafficking machinery. Previous work identified three AP1S1 nonsense, frameshift and splice-site variants in MEDNIK patients predicted to encode truncated σ1A proteins, with consequent AP-1 dysfunction. However, two AP1S1 missense variants (c.269 T > C and c.346G > A) were recently reported in patients who presented with severe enteropathy but no additional symptoms of MEDNIK. This condition was described as a novel non-syndromic form of congenital diarrhea caused specifically by the AP1S1 missense variants. In this study, we report two patients with the same c.269 T > C variant, who, contrary to the previous cases, presented as complete MEDNIK syndrome. These data substantially revise the presentation of disorders associated with AP1S1 gene variants and indicate that all the identified pathogenic AP1S1 variants result in MEDNIK syndrome. We also provide a series of functional analyses that elucidate the impact of the c.269 T > C variant on σ1A function, contributing to a better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of MEDNIK syndrome.

Key messages

A missense AP1S1 c.269 T > C (σ1A L90P) variant causes full MEDNIK syndrome.

The σ1A L90P variant is largely unable to assemble into the AP-1 complex.

The σ1A L90P variant fails to bind [DE]XXXL[LI] sorting motifs.

The σ1A L90P variant results in loss-of-function of the protein.
The Most Influential Publications Regarding Hair Transplantation: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Lizardi Juan J. , Treger Dylan , Braud Savannah C. , Boghosian Tanya , Abd Rawan El , Jabori Sinan K. , Thaller Seth R.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This bibliometric review aims to assess the impact of significant publications within the field of hair transplantation. Citation counts will serve as a primary influence indicator.

Methods

An exhaustive search was conducted using Clarivate’s Web of Science database, yielding 260 publications related to hair transplantation. These were evaluated and sorted based on citations, narrowing down to the 50 most highly cited works for analysis. Parameters including citation density, authorship, institutional affiliations, country of origin, year of publication, article topic, and the level of evidence for each publication were obtained.

Results

Analyzed publications were cited a total of 1341 times. Authorship analysis revealed that the most significant contributors regarding hair transplantation were Bernstein and Rassman. We also identified the leading institutions affiliated with these works, highlighting the primary academic and research centers driving the field. Geographical analysis exhibited the US' dominance in producing impactful publications. Most publications were also classified within Level IV and Level V according to the Oxford Levels of Evidence system.

Conclusion

This review provides a comprehensive snapshot of the pivotal publications shaping hair transplantation. Our findings underscore significant contributions within this field and may assist researchers and clinicians in understanding the evolution and the current state of the hair transplantation literature. This bibliometric analysis can serve as a roadmap for those seeking to delve into this rapidly evolving field, facilitating the identification of research gaps and formulating future research directions.

Level of Evidence V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Systems Modeling of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems Nexus: Insights from a Region Facing Structural Water Scarcity in Southern Spain
Authors: Hurtado Antonio R. , Mesa-Pérez Enrique , Berbel Julio
Published: September 2024

The complex relationship between water, energy, food, and ecological systems, known as the WEFE nexus, has emerged as a major topic in the debate about sustainable economic development and resource management. This subject is of special interest in Mediterranean coastal areas as rapid economic expansion driven by population growth, higher influx of tourists, and intensification of agriculture is leading to structural water scarcity conditions. However, addressing the diverse range of issues associated with the nexus is a difficult task due to the existence of intricate interconnections, interdependencies, and nonlinearities within and across its various components. Accordingly, this case study applies a combination of participatory systems modeling and network analysis tools to yield insights into the complexity of this nexus in Axarquia, a region with features that make it an example of water-stressed jurisdictions in the Mediterranean. Overall, our results provide a strong foundation to understand the dynamics that govern this nexus in regions where the availability of freshwater resources is a significant concern. Furthermore, they lay the groundwork for the development of models and scenarios to simulate the impact of various policies and interventions on the overall system.
Retrospective study on the outcomes and satisfaction with endometrial ablation by bipolar energy (NovaSure®) for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding
Authors: Alvarez López Covadonga , González Paredes Aida , Martínez Morales Sonia , Aguilar Romero Maria Teresa , Gutiérrez Simón Mónica , Fernández Parra Jorge , Hernández Gutiérrez Alicia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To determine the effectiveness, safety, and participant satisfaction with endometrial ablation by bipolar energy (NovaSure®) in the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), and to investigate factors associated with poorer outcomes.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective observational study based on medical record review of the outcomes related to endometrial ablation by the bipolar-energy technique procedure to treat HMB in the setting of three university teaching hospitals in Spain.

Results

A total of 333 women were included in the study. Most bipolar-energy ablations were successful (85.12%; n = 269 out of 316), with amenorrhea the most frequent outcome (39.6%, n = 131 out of 316). The majority of participants had no complications (95.5%; n = 317 out of 332), and of those who did, only 2.1% were related to the technique. No further treatment was required for HMB in 82.8% of women (n = 274 out of 331), and surgery was avoided in 91.8%; only 5.9% of women underwent ablation-related hysterectomy. In women with previous transverse cesarean sections (CS), 91.0% avoided subsequent surgical treatment. Eighty-six percent of women (n = 221 out of 257) were satisfied with the procedure.

Conclusion

Bipolar-energy ablation is very effective and safe for the treatment of HMB and yielded a high rate of participant satisfaction in our setting. The presence of comorbidities or previous CS may slightly reduce the effectiveness of the method, while performing concomitant surgery (mainly curettage) increases the rate of complications. Notably, despite the known increased risk of hysterectomy, most participants with previous CSs who underwent ablation avoided major surgery.
Evaluating cochlear implant outcomes in DFNA9 subjects: a comprehensive study on cerebral white matter lesions and vestibular abnormalities
Authors: Fehrmann M.L.A. , Meijer F.J.A. , Mylanus E.A.M. , Pennings R.J.E. , Lanting C.P. , Huinck W.J.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study assessed whether the Fazekas score could account for the variability in cochlear implantation (CI) outcomes among individuals with DFNA9 and evaluated signal loss in the semicircular canals (SCCs) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among individuals with DFNA9.

Method

This retrospective cross-sectional study included CI recipients with DFNA9. Pre-implantation MRI-scans were reviewed to determine the Fazekas score, localizing and grading cerebral white matter lesions (WML), and identify abnormalities in the SCCs. CI performance was assessed by evaluating phoneme scores one year post-implantation. The function of the SCCs was evaluated using rotatory chair testing with electronystagmography (ENG) and the video Head Impulse Test (vHIT).

Results

Forty-five subjects (49 ears) were enrolled. The phoneme scores significantly improved from 35% (IQR 11–50) pre-implantation to 84% (IQR 76–90) one year post-implantation. No correlation was observed between the Fazekas score and the one-year post-implantation phoneme score (rsp=0.003, p = 0.986). Signal loss in at least one SCCs was detected in 97.7% of subjects and 77.8% of ears. There was no correlation between vestibular test results and fluid signal loss in the SCCs on MRI.

Conclusion

Most individuals with DFNA9 show improved speech recognition with CI. The observed variability in CI outcomes was not linked to the Fazekas score. Additionally, our study confirms a high prevalence of focal sclerosis in DFNA9. Recognizing the limitations of this study, further research is needed to explore the predictive role of the Fazekas score on CI outcomes and its relationship with vestibular function.
Bio-control of soil-borne virus infection by seed application of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract and the rhamnolipid Rhapynal
Authors: Fomitcheva Viktoria , Strauch Claudia J. , Bonse Sabine , Bauer Petra , Kühne Thomas , Niehl Annette
Published: September 2024

Main conclusion

Seed-application of the natural products protects sugar beet and wheat plants against infection with plasmodiophorid-transmitted viruses and thus may represent an efficient, environmentally friendly, easy and cost effective biocontrol strategy.

In times of intensive agriculture, resource shortening and climate change, alternative, more sustainable and eco-friendly plant protection strategies are required. Here, we tested the potential of the natural plant substances Glycyrrhiza glabra leaf extract (GE) and the rhamnolipid Rhapynal (Rha) applied to seeds to protect against infection of sugar beet and wheat with soil-borne plant viruses. The soil-borne Polymyxa betae- and Polymyxa graminis-transmitted viruses cause extensive crop losses in agriculture and efficient control strategies are missing. We show that GE and Rha both efficiently protect plants against infection with soil-borne viruses in sugar beet and wheat when applied to seeds. Moreover, the antiviral protection effect is independent of the cultivar used. No protection against Polymyxa sp. was observed after seed treatment with the bio-substances at our analysis time points. However, when we applied the bio-substances directly to soil a significant anti-Polymyxa graminis effect was obtained in roots of barley plants grown in the soil as well as in the treated soil. Despite germination can be affected by high concentrations of the substances, a range of antiviral protection conditions with no effect on germination were identified. Seed-treatment with the bio-substances did not negatively affect plant growth and development in virus-containing soil, but was rather beneficial for plant growth. We conclude that seed treatment with GE and Rha may represent an efficient, ecologically friendly, non-toxic, easy to apply and cost efficient biocontrol measure against soil-borne virus infection in plants.
The impact of facility type on surgical outcomes in colon cancer patients: analysis of the national cancer database
Authors: Shustak Ashley , Horesh Nir , Emile Sameh Hany , Garoufalia Zoe , Gefen Rachel , Salama Ebram , Sharp Stephen , Wexner Steven D.
Published: September 2024

Background

The type of facility where patients with colon cancer are treated may play a significant role in their outcomes. We aimed to investigate the influence of facility types included in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) on surgical outcomes of colon cancer.

Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis of all patients with stage I–III colon cancer included in the NCDB database between 2010 and 2019 was performed. Patients were grouped based on facility type: Academic/Research Programs (ARP), Community Cancer Programs (CCP), Comprehensive Community Cancer Programs (CCCP), and Integrated Network Cancer Programs (INCP). Study outcomes included overall survival, 30- and 90-day mortality, 30-day readmission and conversion to open surgery.

Results

125,935 patients were included with a median age of 68.7 years (50.5% females). Most tumors were in the right colon (50.6%). Patient were distributed among facility types as ARP (n = 34,321, 27%), CCP (n = 12,692, 10%), CCCP (n = 54,356, 43%), and INCP (n = 24,566, 19%). In terms of surgical approach, laparoscopy was more commonly used in ARP (46%) (p < 0.001). Laparotomy was more common in CCP (58.7%) (p < 0.001), and conversely, CCP had the least amount of robotic surgery (3.9%) (p < 0.001). Median overall survival was highest in ARP (129 months, 95% CI 127.4–134.1) and lowest in CCP (103.7 months, 95% CI 100.1–106.7) (p < 0.001). Conversion rates were comparable between ARP (12%), CCCP (12%) and INCP (11.8%) but were higher in CCP (15.5%) (p < 0.001). 30-day readmission rates and 30-day mortality rates were significantly lower in ARP compared to other facility types (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings display differences in surgical outcomes of colon cancer patients among facility types. The findings suggest better outcomes in terms of operative access and survival at ARP as compared to other facilities. These findings underscore the importance of understanding facility-specific factors that may influence patient outcomes and can guide resource allocation and targeted interventions for improving colon cancer care.
Socioeconomic inequalities in patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction in the North-West of England, UK: a three-centre retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shrestha Donna , Bampouras Theodoros M. , Shelton Clifford L. , Slade Dominic , Subar Daren A. , Gaffney Christopher J.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Patients from deprived areas are more likely to experience longer waiting times for elective surgery, be multimorbid, and have inferior outcomes from elective and emergency surgery. This study aims to investigate how surgical outcomes vary by deprivation for patients undergoing elective abdominal wall reconstruction.

Methods

A three-centre retrospective cohort study was conducted across three hospitals in North-West England, including patients with complex ventral hernias undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction between 2013 and 2021. Demographic data, comorbidities, and index of multiple deprivation quintiles were recorded.

Results

234 patients (49.6% female), age 57 (SD 13) years, underwent elective abdominal wall reconstruction. Significantly higher unemployment rates were found in the most deprived quintiles (Q1 and Q2). There were more smokers in Q1 and Q2, but no significant deprivation related differences in BMI, diabetes, chronic kidney disease or ischaemic heart disease. There were also higher rates of Clavien-Dindo 1–2 complications in Q1 and Q5, but no difference in the Clavien-Dindo 3–4 outcomes. Patients in Q1 and Q5 had a significantly greater hospital length of stay.

Conclusion

The association between deprivation and greater unemployment and smoking rates highlights the potential need for equitable support in patient optimisation. The lack of differences in patient co-morbidities and hernia characteristics could represent the application of standardised operative criteria and thresholds. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between socioeconomic status, complications, and prolonged hospital length of stay.
Fast algebraic multigrid for block-structured dense systems arising from nonlocal diffusion problems
Authors: Chen Minghua , Cao Rongjun , Serra-Capizzano Stefano
Published: September 2024

Algebraic multigrid (AMG) is one of the most efficient iterative methods for solving large structured systems of equations. However, how to build/check restriction and prolongation operators in practical AMG methods for nonsymmetric structured systems is still an interesting open question in its full generality. The present paper deals with the block-structured dense and Toeplitz-like-plus-cross systems, including nonsymmetric indefinite and symmetric positive definite (SPD) ones, arising from nonlocal diffusion problems. The simple (traditional) restriction operator and prolongation operator are employed in order to handle such block-structured dense and Toeplitz-like-plus-cross systems, which are convenient and efficient when employing a fast AMG. We provide a detailed proof of the two-grid convergence of the method for the considered SPD structures. The numerical experiments are performed in order to verify the convergence with a computational cost of only $$\mathscr {O}(N \text{ log } N)$$

O
(
N

log

N
)

arithmetic operations, by exploiting the fast Fourier transform, where N is the number of the grid points. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first contribution regarding Toeplitz-like-plus-cross linear systems solved by means of a fast AMG.
Vulnerability to extreme weather events: mapping future hazards in Wielkopolska region, Poland
Authors: Pińskwar Iwona , Choryński Adam , Graczyk Dariusz
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study is to assess future hazards due to extreme meteorological events in the Wielkopolska region, Poland, based on five climate model projections and three scenarios: SSP126, 370, and 585. The paper analyzes the changes of mean and extreme precipitation, mean and extreme temperatures, and humidity index, as well as changes in difference between maximum temperatures observed from day to day and changes in difference between mean atmospheric pressure at the sea level observed from day to day. Additionally, we look at possible future occurrence of wildfires due to changes in fire weather conditions. Based on climate model projections, future hazard due to extreme meteorological events in Wielkopolska region is to be more serious and will be most noticeable in the end of twenty-first century and for two higher scenarios: SSP370 and SSP585. For near future, 2021–2050, projected conditions of meteorological extremes for analyzed scenarios are quite consistent. Therefore, there is a strong need for implementing adaptation actions. Nevertheless, such activities are so far lacking, and several adaptation options are not present in local and national legislation, even though they are recognized as effective.
Utility of serum uric acid levels in excluding pulmonary hypertension in severe chronic lung disease: insights from a tertiary care center
Authors: Izhakian Shimon , Gorenshtein Alon , Engelstein Haya , Freidkin Lev , Rosengarten Dror , Eldar Ofir , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: September 2024

Hyperuricemia is a known predictor of World Health Organization (WHO) Group 1 pulmonary hypertension (PH) (pulmonary arterial hypertension), but its role in excluding PH secondary to chronic lung diseases (WHO Group 3) remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed data from 323 patients with severe chronic pulmonary diseases who underwent evaluation for lung transplantation at a tertiary medical center between June 2017 and February 2023. We examined the association between hyperuricemia (serum uric acid > 6 mg/dL or > 0.357 mmol/L) and PH [mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP) > 20 mmHg]. Compared to the normouricemia group (n = 211), hyperuricemic patients (n = 112) were more likely to be younger (P = 0.02), male (P < 0.001), and present with PH (P = 0.001) and severe PH (MPAP > 35 mmHg; P < 0.001). These patients also had a higher body mass index (P = 0.004), plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (P < 0.001), serum creatinine (P < 0.001), and C-reactive protein levels (P = 0.03). Significant associations with PH included higher body mass index (P = 0.005), uric acid levels (P < 0.001), total lung capacity (P = 0.02), and residual volume (P = 0.01); shorter 6-min walk test distance (P = 0.005); and lower forced expiratory volume in one second (P = 0.006) and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed elevated uric acid levels remained significantly associated with PH (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.05–1.58, P = 0.01). In conclusion, normal serum uric acid levels serve as a significant predictor for excluding pulmonary hypertension in patients with severe chronic lung diseases.
The effects of myocardial bridging on two-dimensional myocardial strain during dobutamine stress echocardiography
Authors: Ballo Haitham , Uusitalo Valtteri , Pietilä Mikko , Wendelin-Saarenhovi Maria , Saraste Markku , Knuuti Juhani , Saraste Antti
Published: September 2024

Myocardial bridging (MB) is a common anatomic variant in coronary arteries with unclear functional significance. We evaluated regional myocardial strain by speckle tracking during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) in patients with MB in the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). We studied 11 patients with MB in the LAD and no obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), 7 patients without MB, but obstructive CAD in the LAD, and 12 controls without MB or obstructive CAD. MB was defined as either > 1 mm (superficial) or > 2 mm (deep) intramyocardial course of the LAD in coronary CT angiography. Regional longitudinal, radial and circumferential strains and strain rates as well as post-systolic strain index (PSI) were measured at rest, peak stress, and early recovery (1 min after stress). Strain parameters during DSE were similar in the myocardium distal to MB and other myocardial regions of the same patients as well as the LAD territory in controls. However, patients with obstructive CAD showed impaired LS and strain rate as well as increased PSI at peak stress. None of the MB was associated with systolic compression in invasive coronary angiography and strain parameters were similar between superficial and deep MB. Stress myocardial blood flow by positron emission tomography correlated with LS and RS at peak stress in the myocardium distal to MB (r = − 0.73, p = 0.03, and r = 0.64, p = 0.04, respectively). Myocardial strain is not reduced during DSE in patients with MB in the LAD and no significant systolic compression.
Towards a foundation large events model for soccer
Authors: Mendes-Neves Tiago , Meireles Luís , Mendes-Moreira João
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces the Large Events Model (LEM) for soccer, a novel deep learning framework for generating and analyzing soccer matches. The framework can simulate games from a given game state, with its primary output being the ensuing probabilities and events from multiple simulations. These can provide insights into match dynamics and underlying mechanisms. We discuss the framework’s design, features, and methodologies, including model optimization, data processing, and evaluation techniques. The models within this framework are developed to predict specific aspects of soccer events, such as event type, success likelihood, and further details. In an applied context, we showcase the estimation of xP+, a metric estimating a player’s contribution to the team’s points earned. This work ultimately enhances the field of sports event prediction and practical applications and emphasizes the potential for this kind of method.
Changes of bacterial versus fungal community composition along a forest degradation gradient of logged-over tropical rain forests, and their consequences on soil enzyme activities in Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Jiang Linzi , Ushio Masayuki , Imai Nobuo , Sugau John , Kitayama Kanehiro
Published: September 2024

Background and aim

Soil bacterial and fungal communities play different but mutually interrelated roles in releasing enzymes that catalyze organic matter decomposition. In Malaysian Borneo, decreasing litter inputs caused by forest degradation lead to reductions in soil organic carbon (SOC) and C/N ratio. Enzyme activities also decrease with forest degradation. However, it is unclear if/how changes in microbial community compositions affect soil enzymes, despite their importance in ecosystem processes. We investigated how reduced SOC substrate affects microbial community compositions and further influences enzyme activities during forest degradation.

Methods

We used 16S and ITS amplicon sequencing and ergosterol extraction to derive microbial absolute and relative abundances. A principal coordinate analysis was performed on absolute abundances to analyze patterns of bacterial and fungal community compositions. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to investigate how SOC affects enzyme activities via microbial community compositions.

Results

Fungal community composition shifted more distinctly than bacterial community composition along the forest degradation gradient. SEM suggested that reduced SOC influenced bacterial and fungal community compositions, while fungal community composition affected activities of acid phosphatase, β-glucosidase, and leucine aminopeptidase.

Conclusion

Changes in fungal community composition may be due to different responses of fungal phyla to changing quality of bulk soil organic matter with decreasing litter input during forest degradation. Variations in fungal community composition subsequently induced changes in enzyme activities. By contrast, bacterial community composition did not change because labile organic matter of bacterial substrates was available throughout degradation course, particularly such matter being supplied as fungal decomposition by-products.
Need for reform in AAOIFI standards on murabaha financing: evidence from Islamic Banks in Pakistan
Authors: Bhatti Maria , Saleem Muhammad Shujaat , Mansor Fadillah
Published: September 2024

This paper addresses the need for reform in AAOIFI standards on murabaha financing, providing a legal analysis and examining compliance by Islamic banks in Pakistan with AAOIFI Shariah Standard No. (8). Through qualitative research involving face-to-face interviews and content analysis, primary data was collected and analyzed using NVivo software. The findings reveal that Islamic banks in Pakistan do not fully comply with AAOIFI Shariah Standard No. (8), specifically regarding the arrangement fee outlined in clause 2/4/4. Additionally, a contradiction is identified between Shariah Standard No. (24) (clause: 7(1)) and Shariah Standard No. (8) (clause: 2/4/4), as the former permits the charging of an arrangement fee while the latter does not. It’s important to note that this study focuses exclusively on murabaha financing as a debt-based product of Islamic banks and is conducted in Karachi, the financial capital of Pakistan, with respondents including Shariah advisors, assistant Shariah advisors, and bank managers from Islamic banks. The findings contribute to the significance of standardizing the international Islamic banking system and recommend reforms in AAOIFI Standards to foster a harmonized and uniform practice among Islamic banks in Pakistan. This research paper provides valuable insights into contemporary Islamic banking practices, assisting the State Bank of Pakistan in evaluating AAOIFI compliance. Additionally, it helps shape the public’s perception of Islamic banks’ adherence to Islamic principles and offers potential guidance for future research in various jurisdictions.
Social Background Effects on Educational Outcomes—New Insights from Modern Genetic Science
Authors: Baier Tina , Lyngstad Torkild Hovde
Published: September 2024

Sociological theory and empirical research have found that parents’ socioeconomic status and related resources affect their children’s educational outcomes. Findings from behavior genetics reveal genetic underpinnings of the intergenerational transmission of education, thus altering previous conclusions about purely environmental transmission mechanisms. In recent years, studies in molecular genetics have led to new insights. Genomic data, polygenic scores, and other facets of sociogenomics are increasingly used to advance research in social stratification. Notably, the 2018 discovery of “genetic nurture” suggested that parents’ genes influence children above and beyond the genes they directly transmitted to their children. Such indirect genetic effects can be interpreted as consequences of parental behavior, which is itself influenced by the parents’ genetics and is essential for their children’s environment. Indirect genetic effects fit hand in glove with the sociological literature because they represent environmental transmission mechanisms. For instance, parenting behaviors, which are partly influenced by parents’ genes, shape children’s home environments and possibly their later educational outcomes. However, current findings based on more sophisticated research designs demonstrate that “genetic nurture” effects are actually much smaller than initially assumed and hence call for a reevaluation of common narratives found in the social stratification literature. In this paper, we review recent developments and ongoing research integrating molecular genetics to study educational outcomes, and we discuss their implications for sociological stratification research.
Sources of Sexual Knowledge and Information, and Sexual Attitudes of Men: A Narrative Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Ndasi Darlene Mwende , Nunfam Victor Fannam , Adusei-Asante Kwadwo , Grobbelaar Madalena , Van Ha Anh Vo
Published: September 2024

This study sought to synthesise evidence on the sources of sexual knowledge and information and relationship with sexual attitudes of cis men. From a review of existing literature, five categories were obtained from 11 studies and grouped into three syntheses: (1) sources of sexual knowledge and information, (2) sexual attitudes and (3) the relationship between sources of sexual knowledge and information and sexual attitudes. Sex research relation to sexual knowledge and attitudes of cis men is scant across the globe. Men desire reliable sexual information despite peers and online media being more readily available with consequences for sexual attitudes that impact on sexuality of men. We posit that research, sex education, sexological practice and policy intervention are necessary to avail knowledge that provides reliable sexual knowledge and information to men for safe sexual decision making.
Sticky feet: a tribological study of climbing shoe rubber
Authors: Elkington Robert J. , Armitage Josh L. , Khan Thawhid , Bryant Michael G.
Published: September 2024

This study examines the tribological properties of climbing shoe rubbers, challenging the common belief in the climbing community that softer rubbers are inherently grippier. This study investigates the mechanical and wear characteristics of climbing shoe rubbers by employing a high-precision modular mechanical testing environment (Bruker UMT TriboLab) and representative granite counter-surfaces. Key parameters, including surface roughness, Shore A hardness, interfacial adhesion, static and dynamic friction coefficients, and material wear patterns, were analyzed. The mechanical properties of each rubber compound were characterized through Shore A hardness testing and ball indentation–retraction tests, measuring indentation force, energy, and adhesive properties. Sliding friction tests, simulating real climbing conditions, were conducted to understand the tribological behavior of each rubber compound under different loads, further analyzing static and dynamic friction coefficients and wear characteristics. The findings of this study indicate that rubber performance is a convolution of several factors, including material hardness, surface roughness, and interfacial adhesion. Contrary to popular belief, softer rubbers did not consistently exhibit superior tribological characteristics. The findings of this study suggest that climbing shoe selection and design should consider a broader range of material characteristics beyond hardness, emphasizing the role of surface roughness and adhesion in determining overall frictional performance. This research offers valuable insights for the climbing community, providing methodologies to benchmark climbing rubber material characteristics.
Analysis of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Heating with Microwave Radiation
Authors: Sorociak W. , Grzesik B. , Szołtysik J. , Bzówka J. , Mieczkowski P. , Klemens M.
Published: September 2024

The research focuses on the assessment of the potential use of microwave radiation as alternative heating method for reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in hot mix asphalt (HMA) production. Recent studies on the use of microwave radiation in road engineering mostly focused on the cracked asphalt pavement. In the study, microwave heating performance was assessed based on the physical and mechanical characteristics of HMA with different RAP contents containing various amount of moisture. Results were compared to the HMA consisting of high amount of RAP containing Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene (SBS) polymer modified binder. The test results confirmed the possibility of microwaves utilization in order to heat the HMA without adversely affecting its basic properties. The research also shows the possibility of heating RAP in the process of HMA production, especially if the RAP moisture level is above 3%. In addition, the tests on HMA did not reveal any negative impact of microwave heating in the case of using wet RAP for the production of HMA. The susceptibility of the SBS polymer to microwave radiation was indicated by comparing the behavior of the two HMA types under its influence. HMA containing modified bitumen appears to achieve higher temperatures than HMA with unmodified bitumen after the same time of microwave heating.
Protecting Lithium Metal Anodes in Solid-State Batteries
Authors: Zhong Yuxi , Yang Xiaoyu , Guo Ruiqi , Zhai Liqing , Wang Xinran , Wu Feng , Wu Chuan , Bai Ying
Published: September 2024

Lithium metal is considered a highly promising anode material because of its low reduction potential and high theoretical specific capacity. However, lithium metal is prone to irreversible side reactions with liquid electrolytes, resulting in the consumption of metallic lithium and electrolytes due to the high reactivity of lithium metal. The uneven plating/stripping of lithium ions leads to the growth of lithium dendrites and battery safety risks, hindering the further development and commercial application of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Constructing solid-state electrolyte (SSE) systems with high mechanical strength and low flammability is among the most effective strategies for suppressing dendrite growth and improving the safety of LMBs. However, the structural defects, intrinsic ionic conductivity, redox potential and solid-solid contacts of SSEs can cause new electrochemical problems and solid-phase dendrite growth drawbacks in the application of solid-state batteries (SSBs). In this review, the mechanisms of lithium dendrite growth in SSEs are comprehensively summarized. Strategies to suppress lithium dendrite growth, stabilize the interface, and enhance ion transport in organic, inorganic and composite SSEs are emphasized. We conclude with not only relevant experimental findings but also computational predictions to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize the ionic conductivity, interfacial stability and other properties of SSEs based on both chemical and physical principles. The development direction and urgent problems of SSEs are summarized and discussed.

Graphical Abstract
An Imputation-Enhanced Hybrid Deep Learning Approach for Traffic Volume Prediction in Urban Networks: A Case Study in Dresden
Authors: Yan Peng , Li Zirui , Ijaradar Jyotirmaya , Pape Sebastian , Körner Matthias , Wang Meng
Published: September 2024

Advanced traffic management systems rely heavily on accurate traffic state estimation and prediction. Traffic prediction based on conventional road-based sensors faces considerable challenges due to spatiotemporal correlations of traffic flow propagation, and heterogeneous, error-prone, and missing data. This paper proposes a hybrid deep learning approach for online traffic volume prediction in an urban network. The approach ensembles the long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network and the convolutional neural networks (CNN) in a parallel way. In order to deal with missing data, a state-of-the-art Bayesian probabilistic imputation method is employed in the overall prediction pipeline. The hybrid traffic prediction structure can capture the spatiotemporal characteristics of traffic volume. The proposed prediction model is verified by the loop and infrared sensor data in the inner city network of the City of Dresden. Experimental results show that it can achieve superior volume prediction compared with baseline methods.
Violence and Agency in Children’s Narratives
Authors: Pohl Carina
Published: September 2024

The reconstruction of the agency of children who experience family violence is at the centre of this article. The focus is on the subjective experience of agency from the perspective of children, as well as their (in)ability to act and their (lack of) power to act. Based on semi-structured interviews, I analysed how children between the ages of 10 and 14 talk about their experiences of violence and how they present themselves as capable of acting in their narratives - despite their systematically vulnerable position. The analysis shows that establishing spatial distance, offering resistance, and hoping for help are central practices applied by the children. They also develop ‘prevention strategies’ to avoid renewed violence. Children also use the interview situation itself as a moment of empowerment by telling their story in a way that shows how they want to be perceived using their agency. At the same time, however, the limitation of their ability to act is also addressed, which is primarily attributed to their unfavourable position in the power hierarchy with adults. The limitation of their agency is particularly evident in the fact that children cannot stop or prevent violence in the long term despite their strategies. It is thus clearly recognisable that children remain in vulnerable positions despite their agency.
Gender differences and correlates of bullying victimisation among in-school adolescents in Benin
Authors: Gbordzoe Newton Isaac , Srem-Sai Medina , Agormedah Edmond Kwesi , Hagan John Elvis , Sarfo Jacob Owusu
Published: September 2024

Bullying is one of the important global health issues affecting both health and educational outcomes of adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine gender differences and correlates of bullying victimisation among in-school adolescents in Benin, West Africa. A secondary analysis was conducted with Benin’s national dataset among 2496 school-going adolescents aged 13 years and above from the 2016 Global School-Based Student Health Survey. The overall prevalence of bullying victimisation among in-school adolescents was 42.1%, with varying rates across males (40.1%) and females (44.6%), respectively. The odds of bullying victimisation were 56% significantly higher among males in lower grades than those in higher grades (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.20–2.03). Also, there was a 32% increased odds of bullying victimisation among males who currently use alcohol compared to those who do not use alcohol (AOR = 1.32, CI 1.02–1.70). Males who were physically attacked (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.32–2.40) and those who were seriously injured (AOR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.41–2.30), respectively, had 78% and 80% increased odds of bullying victimisation compared to males who were not physically attacked or seriously injured. Males who engaged in physical fights had 2.03 higher odds of bullying victimisation compared to those who did not engage in physical fights (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.51–2.72). For females, there were 73%, and 90% increased odds of bullying victimisation among those who were physically attacked (AOR = 1.73, CI 1.21–2.46) and those who engaged in physical fights (AOR = 1.90, CI 1.36–2.66), respectively, compared to those who were not physically attacked or involved in physical fights. The odds of bullying victimisation were 60% higher among females who were seriously injured compared to those who were not injured (AOR = 1.60, CI 1.23–2.09). Also, females who ideated suicide had 2.04 higher odds of bullying victimisation compared to those who did not ideate suicide. Gender-specific variations of bullying victimisation exist among in-adolescents in Benin. Major stakeholders (teachers, school healthcare providers, and other school authorities) should be mindful of the identified risk differentials and develop effective anti-bullying intervention strategies aimed at promoting the mental health and well-being of school-going adolescents in Benin.
Eine qualitative Studie zu den Langzeiteffekten des PJ-Modellprojekts „Ausbildungskonzept Allgemeinmedizin Dillingen“ (AKADemie)
Authors: Gehrmann Jan , Gigou Sophie , Bechtel Ulrike , Landendörfer Peter , Berberat Pascal , Schneider Antonius
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

Der Hausärzt*innenmangel ist gerade in ländlichen Regionen ein akutes Thema. Von großem Interesse ist es daher, ärztlichen Nachwuchs für eine hausärztliche Tätigkeit zu motivieren. So wurden in Bayern zahlreiche Förderprogramme umgesetzt, wie beispielsweise das Modellprojekt AKADemie Dillingen. Zentral für die Bewertung dieser Förderprogramme ist es, ob die Teilnehmenden auch langfristig in der Region verbleiben. Im Rahmen dieser Studie wurden ehemalige Teilnehmende der AKADemie, die sich für einen Verbleib in der Region entschieden haben, interviewt. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, die Langzeiteffekte des Modellprojekts sowie die Motive zum Verbleib aus Sicht der Teilnehmenden aufzuzeigen.

Methoden

Es wurden 10 leitfadengestützte narrative Interviews durchgeführt. Im Fokus der Interviews stand die Entscheidung zum Verbleib in der Region und welche Effekte hierfür dem Modellprojekt zugeschrieben werden.

Ergebnisse

Die Ergebnisse zeigen drei zentrale Effekte: 1) die Bindung an das Fach und die Region. So treffen fachliche Motive auf persönliche Vorstellungen, in der Region zu verbleiben; 2) der hohe Stellenwert einer qualitativ hochwertigen und integrierten Ausbildung, die es ermöglicht, das ärztliche Arbeiten intensiv zu erfahren; 3) die entstandene Vernetzung aus Kliniken, Praxen und der universitären Struktur. Aus Sicht der Teilnehmenden zeigt sich, dass das Projekt einen Beitrag für den ärztlichen Nachwuchs in der Region leistet.

Diskussion

Ersichtlich wird ein Komplex aus fachlichen Gründen für eine hausärztliche Tätigkeit (primär vermittelt über die integrierte Ausbildung) gepaart mit konkreten Gründen bzw. Klebeeffekten für einen Verbleib in der Region Dillingen. Beide Aspekte konnten mittels des Netzwerkeffekts des Förderprogramms bedient werden. Von zentraler Bedeutung für einen Verbleib scheint die Vernetzung zwischen den Praxen, der Klinik sowie der universitären Struktur zu sein.
Drag coefficient for irregularly shaped grains: rotational dependence at various Reynolds numbers
Authors: Vergara Álvaro , Wei Deheng , Fuentes Raúl
Published: September 2024

The nature and behaviour of the drag coefficient

$C_D$

of irregularly shaped grains within a wide range of Reynolds numbers

$Re$

is discussed. The morphology of the grains is controlled by their fractal description, and they differ in shape. Using computational fluid dynamics tools, the characteristics of the boundary layer at high

$Re$

has been determined by applying the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes turbulence model. Both grid resolution and mesh size dependence are validated with well-reported previous experimental results applied in flow around isolated smooth spheres. The drag coefficient for irregularly shaped grains is shown to be higher than that for spherical shapes, also showing a strong drop in its value at high

$Re$

. This drag crisis is reported at lower

$Re$

compared to the smooth sphere, but higher critical

$C_D$

, demonstrating that the morphology of the particle accelerates this crisis. Furthermore, the dependence of

$C_D$

on

$Re$

in this type of geometry can be represented qualitatively by four defined zones: subcritical, critical, supercritical and transcritical. The orientational dependence for both particles with respect to the fluid flow is analysed, where our findings show an interesting oscillatory behaviour of

$C_D$

as a function of the angle of incidence, fitting the results to a sine-squared interpolation, predicted for particles within the Stokes laminar regime (

$Re\ll 1$

) and for elongated/flattened spheroids up to

$Re=2000$

. A statistical analysis shows that this system satisfies a Weibullian behaviour of the drag coefficient when random azimuthal and polar rotation angles are considered.