bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optogenetic induction of chronic glucocorticoid exposure in early‐life leads to blunted stress‐response in larval zebrafish
Authors: Nagpal Jatin , Eachus Helen , Lityagina Olga , Ryu Soojin
Published: April 2024

Early life stress (ELS) exposure alters stress susceptibility in later life and affects vulnerability to stress‐related disorders, but how ELS changes the long‐lasting responsiveness of the stress system is not well understood. Zebrafish provides an opportunity to study conserved mechanisms underlying the development and function of the stress response that is regulated largely by the neuroendocrine hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal/interrenal (HPA/I) axis, with glucocorticoids (GC) as the final effector. In this study, we established a method to chronically elevate endogenous GC levels during early life in larval zebrafish. To this end, we employed an optogenetic actuator, beggiatoa photoactivated adenylyl cyclase, specifically expressed in the interrenal cells of zebrafish and demonstrate that its chronic activation leads to hypercortisolaemia and dampens the acute‐stress evoked cortisol levels, across a variety of stressor modalities during early life. This blunting of stress–response was conserved in ontogeny at a later developmental stage. Furthermore, we observe a strong reduction of proopiomelanocortin (pomc)‐expression in the pituitary as well as upregulation of fkbp5 gene expression. Going forward, we propose that this model can be leveraged to tease apart the mechanisms underlying developmental programming of the HPA/I axis by early‐life GC exposure and its implications for vulnerability and resilience to stress in adulthood.
Medical care priorities of community‐dwelling older adults according to three dimensions of quality of life: Quality of daily living, satisfaction and happiness from birth to death, and human vitality
Authors: Tanaka Tomoki , Akishita Masahiro , Kojima Taro , Son Bo‐Kyung , Iijima Katsuya
Published: April 2024

Aim

Although the maintenance and improvement of quality of life (QoL) through holistic care are important in geriatric medical care, care priorities might differ depending on three essential aspects of QoL: the quality of daily living, satisfaction and happiness from birth to death, and human vitality, which are “Seikatsu,” “Jinsei,” “Seimei” in Japanese, respectively. We aimed to clarify these priorities in terms of medical care and examined how the definitions of QoL affected these priorities' rankings.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved community‐dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years living in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. The number of participants was 1550 (mean age, 76.1 ± 5.8 years; 699 women [45.1%]). A self‐administered questionnaire distributed in advance was used to rank 12 items sought in medical care. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups and sent the corresponding questionnaire, which differed only in the definition of QoL.

Results

The top priorities for medical care were “effective treatment of illness,” “improvement of physical function,” and “maintaining a high level of activity.” When QoL was defined as “the quality of daily living, satisfaction and happiness from birth to death, and human vitality,” participants were significantly more likely to rank QoL improvement as one of the top three items (adjusted odds ratio, 1.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–2.05).

Conclusions

As a medical care priority, older adults desire improvement of multidimensional elements of life, including human vitality. Health care providers should consider this when making medical care decisions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 493–498.
Clover: An unbiased method for prioritizing differentially expressed genes using a data‐driven approach
Authors: Oba Gina Miku , Nakato Ryuichiro
Published: April 2024

Identifying key genes from a list of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) is a critical step in transcriptome analysis. However, current methods, including Gene Ontology analysis and manual annotation, essentially rely on existing knowledge, which is highly biased depending on the extent of the literature. As a result, understudied genes, some of which may be associated with important molecular mechanisms, are often ignored or remain obscure. To address this problem, we propose Clover, a data‐driven scoring method to specifically highlight understudied genes. Clover aims to prioritize genes associated with important molecular mechanisms by integrating three metrics: the likelihood of appearing in the DEG list, tissue specificity, and number of publications. We applied Clover to Alzheimer's disease data and confirmed that it successfully detected known associated genes. Moreover, Clover effectively prioritized understudied but potentially druggable genes. Overall, our method offers a novel approach to gene characterization and has the potential to expand our understanding of gene functions. Clover is an open‐source software written in Python3 and available on GitHub athttps://github.com/G708/Clover.
The effect of interventions in vaginal birth on fear of childbirth: A multicentre study
Authors: Atan Senay Unsal , Daşıkan Zeynep , Ibis Berna Kaya , Köprülü Cigdem , Donmez Elmas Mutlugunes , Kırcan Nurten Denizhan , Ocalan Dilek , Erdogan Meryem
Published: April 2024

Aim

This cross‐sectional multicentre study aimed to determine the effect of interventions during vaginal birth for fear of childbirth.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional and analytical study, 852 women who had a vaginal birth between 2019 and 2020 were enrolled. Data were collected using the Descriptive Questionnaire and Wijma Birth Expectation/Experience Scale Version B.

Results

The mean total Wijma Birth Expectation/Experience Scale Version B score of the women was 97.00 ± 24.24, indicating severe and clinical levels of fear of childbirth. Moreover, 69.4% of the women had clinical, 18.6% had severe and 12% had moderate levels of fear of childbirth. During birth, women who had close supporters, who were allowed to move and who did not undergo amniotomy, enema, perineal shaving and electronic foetal monitoring had a low level of fear of childbirth. As the number of pregnant women in the labour room, frequency of vaginal examinations, duration of delivery/hour, severity of labour pain and negative perception of the approach of health professionals increased, the women's fear of childbirth increased. Fear of childbirth decreased as the frequency of antenatal follow‐ups, number of births and satisfaction levels of the women increased (p < 0.05).

Low income perception, irregular prenatal follow‐up, severe labour pain and a long duration of labour were strong predictors of increased fear of childbirth. Increasing number of births, high birth satisfaction level and positive perception of the approach of health professionals were strong predictors of reduced fear of childbirth.

Conclusions

The reduction of interventions in vaginal delivery and support from health care providers during delivery can be effective in reducing fear of childbirth.
Central nervous system medication use around hospitalization
Authors: Pavon Juliessa M. , Sloane Richard J. , Colón‐Emeric Cathleen S. , Pieper Carl F. , Schmader Kenneth , Gallagher David , Hastings Susan N.
Published: April 2024

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) medication use is common among older adults, yet the impact of hospitalizations on use remains unclear. This study details CNS medication use, discontinuations, and user profiles during hospitalization periods.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using electronic health records on patients ≥65 years, from three hospitals (2018–2020), and prescribed a CNS medication around hospitalization (90 days prior to 90 days after). Latent class transitions analysis (LCTA) examined profiles of CNS medication class users across four time points (90 days prior, admission, discharge, 90 days after hospitalization).

Results

Among 4666 patients (mean age 74.3 ± 9.3 years; 63% female; 70% White; mean length of stay 4.6 ± 5.6 days (median 3.0 [2.0, 6.0]), the most commonly prescribed CNS medications were antidepressants (56%) and opioids (49%). Overall, 74% (n = 3446) of patients were persistent users of a CNS medication across all four time points; 7% (n = 388) had discontinuations during hospitalization, but of these, 64% (216/388) had new starts or restarts within 90 days after hospitalization. LCTA identified three profile groups: (1) low CNS medication users, 54%–60% of patients; (2) mental health medication users, 30%–36%; and (3) acute/chronic pain medication users, 9%–10%. Probability of staying in same group across the four time points was high (0.88–1.00). Transitioning to the low CNS medication use group was highest from admission to discharge (probability of 9% for pain medication users, 5% for mental health medication users). Female gender increased (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3–4.3), while chronic kidney disease lowered (OR 0.5, 0.2–0.9) the odds of transitioning to the low CNS medication use profile between admission and discharge.

Conclusions

CNS medication use stays consistent around hospitalization, with discontinuation more likely between admission and discharge, especially among pain medication users. Further research on patient outcomes is needed to understand the benefits and harms of hospital deprescribing, particularly for medications requiring gradual tapering.
The 3D‐printed shell complete denture technique: Simplifying prosthodontic diagnosis prior to implant planning
Authors: Azpiazu‐Flores Francisco X. , Yang Chao‐Chieh , Lin Wei‐Shao , Polido Waldemar D. , Morton Dean
Published: April 2024

Traditionally, artificial teeth arrangements or the definitive complete dentures are used to establish important prosthodontic parameters such as the occlusal plane orientation, vertical dimension, and the incisal edge position. The relationship of these elements with the underlying bony structures is commonly evaluated using advanced planning protocols such as the dual scan technique. This technique article presents an uncomplicated alternative approach to establish these parameters intraorally using a 3D‐printed shell complete denture generated from a 3D scan of the patient's existing complete denture.
Utilization of dental care and dentate status in diabetic and nondiabetic patients across US states: An analysis using the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Aldosari Muath , Archer Hannah R. , Almutairi Fahad T. , Alzuhair Saud H. , Aldosari Mohammad A. , Kennedy Erinne
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study examines the differences, by state, in dental care utilization and tooth retention between adults with and without diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of data from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, an annual, state‐based, random telephone survey of noninstitutionalized US civilian adults. The predictor variable was DM status. The outcome variables were time since the last dental appointment and tooth loss. We utilized multiple multinomial logistic regression models followed by postestimation procedures to determine state‐level adjusted proportions for dental visits within the last year and complete teeth retention among DM and non‐DM adults.

Results

Among adults with DM, 60.0% reported dentist visits within a year of survey participation, while 53.6% had complete tooth retention. As education and income levels increased, dental attendance and tooth retention increased among adults with DM. Most Southern states had a higher prevalence of DM, a lower proportion of dentist visits, and worse tooth retention among DM adults. Nationally, DM individuals were 4.3 percentage points less likely to visit a dentist and were 7 percent less likely to have complete teeth retention than non‐DM adults. Compared with the national average, 25/50 states had greater disparities in dental visits between DM and non‐DM adults, and 27/50 states had greater disparities in tooth loss between DM and non‐DM adults.

Conclusion

State‐level variations indicate geographical and dental coverage influences on DM and dental outcomes. There is a need for state‐specific interventions to improve dental access and outcomes for adults with DM.
Inference in Coarsened Time Series via Generalized Method of Moments
Authors: Ip Man Fai , Chan Kin Wai
Published: April 2024

We study statistical inference procedures in coarsened time series through the generalized method of moments. A new model for the coarsened time series via multiple potential outcomes is proposed. It can be naturally extended for inferring multi‐variate coarsened time series. We show that this framework generates a general class of estimators. It neatly generalizes the classical Horvitz–Thompson estimator for handling coarsened time series data. Asymptotic properties, including consistency and limiting distribution, of the proposed estimators are investigated. Estimators of the optimal weight matrix and the long‐run covariance matrix are also derived. In particular, confidence intervals of the mean function of the potential outcome as a function of coarsening index can be constructed. A real‐data application on air quality in the USA is investigated.
Iconicity and Gesture Jointly Facilitate Learning of Second Language Signs at First Exposure in Hearing Nonsigners
Authors: Karadöller Dilay Z. , Peeters David , Manhardt Francie , Özyürek Aslı , Ortega Gerardo
Published: April 2024

When learning spoken second language (L2), words overlapping in form and meaning with one's native language (L1) help break into the new language. When nonsigning speakers learn a sign language as L2, such overlaps are absent because of the modality differences (L1: speech, L2: sign). In such cases, nonsigning speakers might use iconic form‐meaning mappings in signs or their own gestural experience as gateways into the to‐be‐acquired sign language. In this study, we investigated how both these phenomena may contribute jointly to the acquisition of sign language vocabulary by hearing nonsigners. Participants were presented with three types of signs in the Sign Language of the Netherlands (NGT): arbitrary signs, iconic signs with high or low gesture overlap. Signs that were both iconic and highly overlapping with gestures boosted learning most at first exposure, and this effect remained the day after. Findings highlight the influence of modality‐specific attributes supporting the acquisition of a signed lexicon.
Grit, resilience and growth‐mindset interventions in health professional students: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Calo Marlena , Judd Belinda , Peiris Casey
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Grit, resilience and a growth‐mindset influence students' ability to positively adapt to the challenges of health professional training. However, it is unclear if interventions can improve these traits. This systematic review aimed to explore if interventions can improve these traits in health professional students (primary) and their impact on academic and/or wellbeing outcomes (secondary).

Methods

A comprehensive search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, Eric and Embase was conducted from inception until 15 March 2023. Randomised or non‐randomised controlled trials and single‐group intervention studies that aimed to improve health professional students' resilience, grit and/or growth‐mindset were eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers independently screened studies for inclusion and evaluated quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Post‐intervention data from randomised and non‐randomised control trials were pooled using a random‐effects model to calculate standardised mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Resilience interventions improved resilience by a moderate amount in 13 studies with 990 participants (pooled SMD 0.74, 95%CI 0.03 to 1.46) and a large amount when interventions were greater than one session duration in 10 trials with 740 participants (pooled SMD 0.97, 95%CI 0.08 to 1.85). Grit and growth‐mindset interventions improved grit (pooled SMD 0.48, 95%CI −0.05 to 1.00, n = 2) and growth‐mindset (pooled SMD 0.25, 95%CI −0.18 to 0.68, n = 2) by a small amount. Resilience interventions decreased perceived stress by a small amount (pooled SMD −0.38, 95%CI −0.62 to −0.14, n = 5).

Conclusions

Resilience interventions improve resilience and decrease perceived stress in health professional students. Preliminary evidence suggests grit and growth‐mindset interventions may also benefit health professional students. Interventions may be most effective when they are longer than one session and targeted to students with low baseline levels of resilience and grit.
Are languages and dialects inventions of nationalism? On the problem of totalising metalanguage
Authors: Vukotić Vuk
Published: April 2024

Scholars of nationalism generally acknowledge that what counts as ‘a language’ and what as ‘a dialect’ is determined by historical and political circumstance, that both notions are idealisations of linguistic practice rather than objective entities and that the reality of language is fuzzy and complex. However, they nevertheless continue to talk about (and analyse) ‘linguistic entities’ in the same way nationalists do: as homogenous, closed systems. Paralleling Brubaker's groupist language, this paper proposes the notion of totalising metalanguage to signify all ways of talking about linguistic phenomena that reify them into unproblematically existing objects. I analyse the historical development of dialectology in Croatia and Serbia from the 19th century until today to show how dubious linguistic taxonomies have been presented in the discourse as objectively existing linguistic entities. The paper invites scholars of nationalism to seek alternative approaches to the language‐dialect dichotomy than that offered by the outdated model of Joshua Fishman.
Validity evidence of the use of quantitative measures of students in elementary mathematics education
Authors: Ing Marsha , Kosko Karl W. , Jong Cindy , Shih Jeffrey C.
Published: April 2024

Quantitative measures in mathematics education have informed policies and practices for over a century. Thus, it is critical that such measures in mathematics education have sufficient validity evidence to improve mathematics experiences for students. This article provides a systematic review of the validity evidence related to measures used in elementary mathematics education. The review includes measures that focus on elementary students as the unit of analyses and attends to validity as defined by current conceptions of measurement. Findings suggest that one in ten measures in mathematics education include rigorous evidence to support intended uses. Recommendations are made to support mathematics education researchers to continue to take steps to improve validity evidence in the design and use of quantitative measures.
Comprehensive assessment of drought resistance and recovery in kiwifruit genotypes using multivariate analysis
Authors: Bao Wen‐Wu , Chen Xi , Li Ruo‐Nan , Li Min , Xie Cui‐Juan , Dou Meng‐Ru , Zhang Kang‐Zhuang , Wang Jian , Gao Zhi‐Xiong , Liu Zhan‐De , Xu Yan
Published: April 2024

As global climate change persists, ongoing warming exposes plants, including kiwifruit, to repeated cycles of drought stress and rewatering, necessitating the identification of drought‐resistant genotypes for breeding purposes. To better understand the physiological mechanisms underlying drought resistance and recovery in kiwifruit, moderate (40–45% field capacity) and severe (25–30% field capacity) drought stresses were applied, followed by rewatering (80–85% field capacity) to eight kiwifruit rootstocks in this study. We then conducted a multivariate analysis of 20 indices for the assessment of drought resistance and recovery capabilities. Additionally, we identified four principal components, each playing a vital role in coping with diverse water conditions. Three optimal indicator groups were pinpointed, enhancing precision in kiwifruit drought resistance and recovery assessment and simplifying the evaluation system. Finally, MX‐1 and HW were identified as representative rootstocks for future research on kiwifruit's responses to moderate and severe drought stresses. This study not only enhances our understanding of the response mechanisms of kiwifruit rootstocks to progressive drought stress and recovery but also provides theoretical guidance for reliable screening of drought‐adaptive kiwifruit genotypes.
3D skin bioprinting as promising therapeutic strategy for radiation‐associated skin injuries
Authors: Lv Xiaofan , Zhao Na , Long Shuang , Wang Guojian , Ran Xinze , Gao Jining , Wang Junping , Wang Tao
Published: April 2024

Both cutaneous radiation injury and radiation combined injury (RCI) could have serious skin traumas, which are collectively referred to as radiation‐associated skin injuries in this paper. These two types of skin injuries require special managements of wounds, and the therapeutic effects still need to be further improved. Cutaneous radiation injuries are common in both radiotherapy patients and victims of radioactive source accidents, which could lead to skin necrosis and ulcers in serious conditions. At present, there are still many challenges in management of cutaneous radiation injuries including early diagnosis, lesion assessment, and treatment prognosis. Radiation combined injuries are special and important issues in severe nuclear accidents, which often accompanied by serious skin traumas. Mass victims of RCI would be the focus of public health concern. Three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting, as a versatile and favourable technique, offers effective approaches to fabricate biomimetic architectures with bioactivity, which provides potentials for resolve the challenges in treating radiation‐associated skin injuries. Combining with the cutting‐edge advances in 3D skin bioprinting, the authors analyse the damage characteristics of skin wounds in both cutaneous radiation injury and RCI and look forward to the potential value of 3D skin bioprinting for the treatments of radiation‐associated skin injuries.
Emprendimiento sénior: revisión semissistemática de la literatura y agenda de investigación futura
Authors: Shinohara Eloisa Elena , Jorge Nassif Vânia Maria , Silva Corrêa Victor
Published: April 2024

Debido al envejecimiento de la población, el emprendimiento sénior ha cobrado relevancia en la literatura, aunque quedan lagunas por explorar. Este estudio busca responder tres preguntas de investigación: ¿Cómo se define y caracteriza el emprendimiento sénior en la literatura? ¿Cuáles han sido los temas predominantes en la investigación sobre emprendimiento sénior en diferentes períodos? ¿Cómo han cambiado las tendencias en el enfoque teórico y metodológico a lo largo de los años? Analizamos 67 artículos mediante una revisión semissistemática de literatura, utilizando datos bibliométricos y análisis de contenido. Los resultados destacan avances en los temas, con énfasis en motivaciones y antecedentes individuales. Este estudio contribuye a comprender la evolución de las investigaciones y la necesidad de nuevos insights específicos en este campo.
Sangre y resistencia. Políticas y culturas alternativas de la menstruación, de Miren Guilló Arakistain
Authors: Diez-Mintegui Carmen
Published: April 2024

En esta obra estamos ante el resultado de una aventura que la autora inició hace años, concretamente en 2006. Lo que entonces, junto a Mireia Delgado, comenzó como unas prácticas artístico-activistas para repensar la menstruación, sus representaciones y recursos, se fue convirtiendo poco a poco en una investigación sobre transformaciones sociales y culturales más amplias en torno al cuerpo, al género, la política, la salud y la sociedad del consumo, culminando en una brillante Tesis Doctoral, que oportunamente revisada podemos leer en esta publicación de Bellaterra.
Adoptee Activism
Authors: Blake Denise , Ahuriri-Driscoll Annabel , Sumner Barbara
Published: April 2024

In this article, we, three adoptee scholars, share collectively our experiences of adoption while engaging in activism that contests adoption practices. We apply autoethnographic and reflexive strategies to unpack our shared conversation in order to foreground the plight of adoptees and offer insight into adoption and the importance of the current law reform in Aotearoa New Zealand. We draw on a model of adoptee consciousness to frame the complexity of our ‘lived experience’ and activism. In doing this we outline some ofthe challenges we face as adoptees because adoption, as a human-rights injustice, is largely misunderstood, overlooked, or ignored. To begin, however, it is necessary to outline the history of closed stranger adoption in Aotearoa New Zealand with the purpose of providing context.
Book Forum: Catherine Comyn, The Financial Colonisation of Aotearoa (2022)
Authors: Rata Arama , Kelsey Jane , Barber Simon , Comyn Catherine
Published: April 2024

Catherine Comyn’s The Financial Colonisation of Aotearoa (2022) examines the centrality of finance in the colonisation of Aotearoa, from the sale of Māori lands and the first colonial emigration scheme to the founding of settler nationhood and the enforcement of colonial grievances. Moving from the formation of the New Zealand Company in the 1830s to the Hokianga Dog Tax Uprising at the close of the nineteenth century, this book reveals the inextricability of finance and colonialism. In this forum, Arama Rata, Jane Kelsey, and Simon Barber offer their thoughts on Comyn’s book and use it as a prompt to think about the legacies and ongoing ruptures of financial colonisation. The forum concludes with Comyn’s response to their readings of the book.
Attractive carbon black dispersions: Structural and mechanical responses to shear
Authors: Bauland Julien , Bouthier Louis-Vincent , Poulesquen Arnaud , Gibaud Thomas
Published: April 2024

The rheological behavior of colloidal dispersions is of paramount importance in a wide range of applications, including construction materials, energy storage systems, and food industry products. These dispersions consistently exhibit non-Newtonian behaviors, a consequence of intricate interplays involving colloids morphology, volume fraction, and interparticle forces. Understanding how colloids structure under flow remains a challenge, particularly in the presence of attractive forces leading to cluster formation. In this study, we adopt a synergistic approach, combining rheology with ultra small-angle x-ray scattering, to probe the flow-induced structural transformations of attractive carbon black (CB) dispersions and their effects on the viscosity. Our key findings can be summarized as follows. First, testing different CB volume fractions, in the high shear rate hydrodynamic regime, CB particles aggregate to form fractal clusters. Their size conforms to a power law of the shear rate, ξc∝γ˙−m, with m≃0.5. Second, drawing insights from the fractal structure of clusters, we compute an effective volume fraction ϕeff and find that microstructural models adeptly account for the hydrodynamic stress contributions. We identify a critical shear rate γ∗˙ and a critical volume fraction ϕeff∗, at which the clusters percolate to form a dynamical network. Third, we show that the apparent yield stress measured at low shear rates inherits its properties from the percolation point. Finally, through data scaling and the integration of Einstein’s viscosity equation, we revisit and discuss the Caggioni–Trappe–Spicer model, revealing a significant connection between its empirical parameters and the structural properties of CB dispersions under flow.
Designs where disorder prevails
Authors: Chen Zibin
Published: April 2024

A design strategy boosts electrical properties of ferroelectric materials and devices
Arno Allan Penzias (1933–2024)
Authors: Partridge Bruce
Published: April 2024

Radio astronomer who discovered the Big Bang’s echo
Teach philosophy of science
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: April 2024

Much is being made about the erosion of public trust in science. Surveys show a modest decline in the United States from a very high level of trust, but that is seen for other institutions as well. What is apparent from the surveys is that a better explanation of the nature of science—that it is revised as new data surface—would have a strong positive effect on public trust. Because scientists are so aware of this feature, it is often taken for granted that the public understands this too. A step toward addressing this problem would be revising undergraduate and graduate curricula to teach not just theories and techniques but the underlying philosophy of science as well.
In Science Journals
Authors: Matsiko Amos , Smith Keith T. , Suleymanov Yury , Grocholski Brent , Smith H. Jesse , Maroso Mattia , Jiang Di , Baek Amy E. , Funk Michael A. , Hurtley Stella M. , Yeston Jake S. , Stajic Jelena , Szuromi Phil , Lavine Marc S. , Isles Hannah M. , Neuhofer Daniela , Ross Sarah H.
Published: April 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Probe bolsters model of ever-expanding universe
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: April 2024

Theorists intrigued by hints of weakening dark energy in largest yet 3D galaxy map
Astronomers urge Mexico to save giant radio telescope
Authors: Jiménez Gina
Published: April 2024

Large Millimeter Telescope Alfonso Serrano at risk of running out of funding in August, researchers say
Novel antifungals and treatment approaches to tackle resistance and improve outcomes of invasive fungal disease
Authors: Hoenigl Martin , Arastehfar Amir , Arendrup Maiken Cavling , Brüggemann Roger , Carvalho Agostinho , Chiller Tom , Chen Sharon , Egger Matthias , Feys Simon , Gangneux Jean-Pierre , Gold Jeremy A. W. , Groll Andreas H. , Heylen Jannes , Jenks Jeffrey D. , Krause Robert , Lagrou Katrien , Lamoth Frédéric , Prattes Juergen , Sedik Sarah , Wauters Joost , Wiederhold Nathan P. , Thompson George R.
Published: April 2024

Fungal infections are on the rise, driven by a growing population at risk and climate change. Currently available antifungals include only five classes, and their utility and efficacy in antifungal treatment are limited by one or more of innate or acquired resistance in some fungi, poor penetration into “sequestered” sites, and agent-specific side effect which require frequent patient reassessment and monitoring. Agents with novel mechanisms, favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles including good oral bioavailability, and fungicidal mechanism(s) are urgently needed. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of novel antifungal agents, with both improved known mechanisms of actions and new antifungal classes, currently in clinical development for treating invasive yeast, mold (filamentous fungi),
Pneumocystis jirovecii
infections, and dimorphic fungi (endemic mycoses). We further focus on inhaled antifungals and the role of immunotherapy in tackling fungal infections, and the specific PK/pharmacodynamic profiles, tissue distributions as well as drug-drug interactions of novel antifungals. Finally, we review antifungal resistance mechanisms, the role of use of antifungal pesticides in agriculture as drivers of drug resistance, and detail detection methods for antifungal resistance.
Supplemental Material: Retraversing the highs and lows of Cenozoic sea levels
Authors: Haq Bilal U. , Ogg James G.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental Text S1. Further discussion of topics in main paper, rationale for refining ages of depositional surfaces, and additional documentation sources. Figure S1. Composite Cenozoic depositional sequences and eustatic sea-level variations.
Survey of rice (Oryza sativa L.) production ecosystems in northern Ghana confirms low risk of exposure to potential toxic elements from local grain consumption
Authors: Adomako Eureka E.A. , Aboagye-Ghunney Kow , Owusu Prince
Published: April 2024

Expanding local rice production to meet consumer demand is a priority action under the Government of Ghana’s Planting for Food and Jobs initiative. While studies on yield-enhancing interventions abound, fewer studies focus on food safety issues (e.g., the potential toxic element status of the production ecosystems). This study was, therefore, conducted to bridge the knowledge gap. Chemical analyses were conducted on water, soil, and rice grain samples from different production ecosystems in the Northern and Upper East regions of Ghana. Statistical analysis of the data showed that soil and rice grain arsenic concentrations were significantly higher ( P < 0.001) in the Upper East region. In the Northern region, mean cadmium concentration in rice grains from the irrigated lowland fields (0.023±0.003 mg/kg) was significantly higher than in grains from the rainfed fields. All recorded concentrations of rice grain arsenic, cadmium, and lead were, however, within permissible limits, indicating a low risk of dietary exposure. The observed differences in concentrations within and between regions suggest that soil texture and other geogenic factors could influence the potential toxic element status of the rice production ecosystems. Regular monitoring is, therefore, recommended to maintain the safety of Ghana’s locally produced rice for human consumption.
Testing Yukawa cosmology at the Milky Way and M31 galactic scales
Authors: D’Agostino Rocco , Jusufi Kimet , Capozziello Salvatore
Published: April 2024

We address the galaxy rotation curves through the Yukawa gravitational potential emerging as a correction of the Newtonian potential in extended theories of gravity. On the one hand, we consider the contribution of the galactic bulge, galactic disk, and the dark matter halo of the Navarro–Frenk–White profile, in the framework of the standard $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM model. On the other hand, we use modified Yukawa gravity to show that the rotational velocity of galaxies can be addressed successfully without the need for dark matter. In Yukawa gravity, we recover MOND and show that dark matter might be seen as an apparent effect due to the modification of the law of gravitation in terms of two parameters: the coupling constant $$\alpha $$
α
and the characteristic length $$\lambda $$
λ
. We thus test our theoretical scenario using the Milky Way and M31 rotation velocity curves. In particular, we place observational constraints on the free parameters of Yukawa cosmology through the Monte Carlo method and then compare our results with the predictions of the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM paradigm by making use of Bayesian information criteria. Specifically, we find that $$\lambda $$
λ
is constrained to be of the order of kpc, while cosmological data suggest $$\lambda $$
λ
of the order of Gpc. To explain this discrepancy, we argue that there is a fundamental limitation in measuring $$\lambda $$
λ
due to the role of quantum mechanics on cosmological scales.
Classical limits of Hilbert bimodules as symplectic dual pairs
Authors: Feintzeig Benjamin H. , Steeger Jer
Published: April 2024

Hilbert bimodules are morphisms between C*-algebraic models of quantum systems, while symplectic dual pairs are morphisms between Poisson geometric models of classical systems. Both of these morphisms preserve representation-theoretic structures of the relevant types of models. Previously, it has been shown that one can functorially associate certain symplectic dual pairs to Hilbert bimodules through strict deformation quantization. We show that, in the inverse direction, strict deformation quantization also allows one to functorially take the classical limit of a Hilbert bimodule to reconstruct a symplectic dual pair.
Quantum thermodynamics of small systems: The anyonic otto engine
Authors: Mani H. S. , Ramadas N. , Sreedhar V. V.
Published: April 2024

Recent advances in applying thermodynamic ideas to quantum systems have raised the novel prospect of using non-thermal, non-classical sources of energy, of purely quantum origin, like quantum statistics, to extract mechanical work in macroscopic quantum systems like Bose–Einstein condensates. On the other hand, thermodynamic ideas have also been applied to small systems like single molecules and quantum dots. In this paper, we study the quantum thermodynamics of small systems of anyons, with specific emphasis on the quantum Otto engine which uses, as its working medium, just one or two anyons. Formulae are derived for the efficiency of the Otto engine as a function of the statistics parameter.
Algebraic cluster model calculations for shape phase transitions of boson-fermion systems
Authors: Ghapanvari M. , Amiri N. , Jafarizadeh M. A. , Seidi M.
Published: April 2024

The Algebraic Cluster Model (ACM) is an interacting boson model that gives the relative motion of the cluster configurations in which all vibrational and rotational degrees of freedom are present from the outset. We schemed a solvable extended transitional Hamiltonian based on affine [Formula: see text] Lie algebra within the framework for two-, three- and four-body algebraic cluster models that explains both regions [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. We offer that this method can be used to study [Formula: see text] nucleon structures with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in specific [Formula: see text] such as structures [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Numerical extraction to the energy levels, the expectation value of the boson number operator, and the behavior of the overlap of the ground state wave function within the control parameters of this evaluated Hamiltonian are presented. The effect of the coupling of the odd particle to an even–even boson core is discussed along the shape transition and, in particular, at the critical point.
Slow-roll inflation in f(R,T,RabTab) gravity
Authors: Feng Zhe
Published: April 2024

In the framework of [Formula: see text] gravity theory, the slow-roll approximation of the cosmic inflation is investigated, where T is the trace of the energy–momentum tensor [Formula: see text], R and [Formula: see text] are the Ricci scalar and tensor, respectively. After obtaining the equations of motion of the gravitational field from the action principle in the spatially flat FLRW metric, the fundamental equations of this theory are received by introducing the inflation scalar field as the matter and taking into account only the minimum curvature-inflation coupling term. Remarkably, after taking the slow-roll approximation, the identical equations as in [Formula: see text] gravity with a [Formula: see text] mixing term are derived. We study several potentials of interest in different domains. We perform analytical analyzes under various approximate conditions, and present numerical results and their comparison with existing observational data at the same time. In the appendix, we analyze the behavior of the inflation scalar field under perturbation while ignoring the effect of metric perturbations. This research complements the slow-roll inflation in the modified theory of gravity.
Rotational and self-similar solutions to the 2D Euler equations for Chaplygin gas
Authors: Lou Guangpu , Dong Jianwei
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we study the 2D Euler equations for Chaplygin gas, which is a model for dark energy of the universe in some of cosmology theories. By using an ansatz developed by Yuen, we present some rotational and self-similar analytical solutions. We obtain the global existence of the constructed solutions and investigate the qualitative properties of the gas density according to various parameters.
Boosted and semi-boosted all-hadronic tt̄ reconstruction performance on kinematic variables for selected BSM models using a 2D extension of the BUMPHUNTER algorithm
Authors: Kvita Jiří
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we explore the usage of boosted as well as semi-boosted topologies in all-hadronic [Formula: see text] final states in simulated [Formula: see text] collisions at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]TeV, with top quarks decaying into a boosted hadronic top-jet or a W-jet and an isolated b-jet. Correlations between selected kinematic variables and their shapes are studied for scalar and vector resonances decaying to a pair of top quarks, and also for a models of [Formula: see text]-associated production with an invisible dark matter particle pair. Stacked signal[Formula: see text]background samples have been investigated in terms of the ability to resolve an excess of events over the Standard Model background in terms of the [Formula: see text] invariant mass, top quark transverse momentum and other 1D and 2D spectra using a parameterized detector simulation. A 2D extension of the BumpHunter algorithm is proposed, resulting in an improved signal sensitivity in specific 2D areas. We identify the most promising variables with the largest signal significance and smaller sensitivity to experimental uncertainties related to the jet energy calibration. We compare to statistical tests computing the background-only hypothesis compatibility and a likelihood fit of the signal strength.
Decays of radially excited vector mesons ρ′ and ω′ in the extended NJL model
Authors: Volkov M. K. , Arbuzov A. B. , Pivovarov A. A. , Nurlan K.
Published: April 2024

The decay widths of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are recalculated within the extended Nambu–Jona-Lasinio (NJL) quark model. It is shown that the mass of [Formula: see text] meson derived in the NJL model agrees with the one given in Particle Data Group tables but significantly deviates from the recent result of CMD-3 collaboration. Comparisons with earlier theoretical results are presented.
Intelligent Controlling Model for Cleaning of Rice–Wheat Combine Harvester Based on Multi-Objective Optimization Particle Swarm Method
Authors: Zhang Jing , Hu Zelin , Zhou Xiancun , Xu Xueying , Zhang Yifan
Published: April 2024

Intelligent control has become an important research direction of a combine harvester. However, the impact of cleaning control parameters in rice–wheat combine harvesters on cleaning loss rate and impurity rate often tends to be contradictory. In this paper, an intelligent controlling model based on multi-objective optimization particle swarm (MOPSO) was constructed to solve this problem. The control model can real-time monitor the cleaning performance such as the cleaning loss rate and impurity rate and regulate the cleaning operation conditions such as the angle of the air distributor plate, the opening of the upper sieve and the fan speed. The field operation experiment of 10[Formula: see text]kg feeding rice–wheat combine harvester proves that the control model based on MOPSO is more effective than the model based on fuzzy control.
A New Approach for Classification of Spices to Make Special Herbal Tea Using Caralluma Fimbriata
Authors: Prajwal Kumar P. , Palaiahnakote Shivakumara , Basavanna M. , Ravikumar Patil H. S. , Vyshali V. M.
Published: April 2024

Classification of multiple types of spice images is automatically challenging due to conflict between the texture patterns of spice images. This work aims to develop an automatic system for classifying different types of spice images so that the system can choose an appropriate spice to make herbal tea using Caralluma fimbriata. This work considers the following seven spices, namely, cinnamon, citrus peel, clove, ginger, jeera, kokum, mint, and Caralluma fimbriata as one more class for classification. Most of the existing systems need human intervention to choose different spices to make Caralluma fimbriata tea. It is observed that the pattern of different spice images represents different textures. This observation motivated us to extract features based on multi-Sobel kernels. To reduce the number of computations, the proposed work introduces a novel idea of corner detection based on Gaussian distribution. For each corner, the method performed is multi-Sobel kernels for extracting features. The features are fed to convolutional neural network layers for the classification of multiple spice images. The results of our dataset and comparative study with the state-of-the-art methods show that the proposed model is superior to existing methods in terms of classification rate.
On the lattice of closed subgroups of a profinite group
Authors: de Giovanni Francesco , de las Heras Iker , Trombetti Marco
Published: April 2024

The subgroup lattice of a group is a great source of information about the structure of the group itself. The aim of this paper is to use a similar tool for studying profinite groups. In more detail, we study the lattices of closed or open subgroups of a profinite group and its relation with the whole group. We show, for example, that procyclic groups are the only profinite groups with a distributive lattice of closed or open subgroups, and we give a sharp characterization of profinite groups whose lattice of closed (or open) subgroups satisfies the Dedekind modular law; we actually give a precise description of the behavior of modular elements of the lattice of closed subgroups. We also deal with the problem of carrying some structural information from a profinite group to another one having an isomorphic lattice of closed (or open) subgroups. Some interesting consequences and related results concerning decomposability and the number of profinite groups with a given lattice of closed (or open) subgroups are also obtained.
Automatic Specification and Analysis of Software Reliability Using Alloy: Selecting the Best Use Case Scenario in Terms of Reliability
Authors: Najvani Shima Dehghani , Ajoudanian Shohreh
Published: April 2024

Software reliability modeling, as a non-functional characteristic of software quality to achieve high reliability, is of particular importance. To obtain software systems with high reliability, it is important to select the best scenario, from the various scenarios produced, in a short time during the software design stage. Since the scenario includes interactions between the user and use case, producing various scenarios and selecting the best among them in terms of reliability is a difficult and time-consuming task for software designers. Therefore, it is of great importance to use a modeling language that has a tool-based evaluation modeling approach and does the analysis automatically. In this paper, Alloy modeling language has been used to model and analyze software reliability. Compared to other lightweight modeling languages, Alloy has such advantages as being more concise, accurate and abstract. The primary objective of this paper aims to present a modeling framework based on the Alloy modeling language with which reliability of target systems can be efficiently examined. The results indicate that the use of Alloy analyzer facilitates the immediate production of various scenarios and allows for the selection of the best one in terms of reliability.
Ecological Economics and Dynamic Games: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Chenavaz Régis Y. , Dimitrov Stanko , Li Shoude
Published: April 2024

Ecological and environmental economics are inherently dynamic systems requiring dynamic optimization tools. Understanding the interplay between environmental economics, ecological economics, and dynamic games is crucial. This paper presents a systematic literature review on ecological and environmental economics modeled with dynamic games. To be more specific, this systematic literature review analyzes a dataset of 88 peer-reviewed articles from international journals. This study identifies clusters related to resource management, taxation, and policy. It also reveals niche and motor research themes, such as policy, biological invasions, pollution, taxation, abatement, and efficiency, paving the way for future research avenues. By comprehensively examining the literature, this review provides insights into current and future challenges faced by companies, consumers, regulators, and society. It contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between ecological and environmental dynamics and the field of dynamic games in economics.