bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reconfiguration and Performance Evaluation of TBot Cable-Driven Parallel Robot
Authors: Duan Jinhao , Liu Hanqing , Zhang Zhaokun , Shao Zhufeng , Meng Xiangjun , Lv Jingang , Huang Minjian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Cable-driven parallel robots (CDPRs) are easy to implement modular and reconfigurable design, which effectively meets the requirements of flexible production. To clarify the influence of reconfiguration on the performance of a modular designed prototype of the TBot high-speed robot, analysis methods and indexes for the force output and moment constraint performance of CDPRs with co-driven parallel cables are proposed. The influence of reconfiguration on the omnidirectional and directional performance of TBot is discussed, showing the possibility of achieving a more compact layout by reconfiguring the base into slender shapes. The recommended reconfiguration range of TBot is determined to achieve acceptable performance.
Catalyzing Refuse-Derived Fuel Understanding: Quantified Insights From Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Rashwan Sherif S. , Boulet Micael , Moreau Stephane 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This study employs thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to investigate the thermal degradation behavior of various components of refuse-derived fuel (RDF). The analysis is conducted individually for different RDF fractions, including cardboard, mixed papers, mixed plastics, other organics, and fines, alongside raw RDF. TGA experiments are performed in triplicate to ensure repeatability and homogeneity assessment. The results reveal distinct degradation profiles for each material, influenced by moisture content. Cardboard and mixed papers exhibit similar decomposition characteristics attributed to their cellulose content. Cardboard undergoes initial moisture-driven mass loss (5.52%), followed by cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition (58.86%) at 250–400 °C and lignin degradation (10.1%) at 400–500 °C. In contrast, mixed plastics, with an initial moisture content of 0.81%, manifest multiple decomposition steps: polyvinyl chloride (PVC) degradation (3.84%) at 200–335 °C, polystyrene (PS) degradation (6.63%) at 335–400 °C, polypropylene (PP) degradation (24.41%) at 400–450 °C, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE) degradation (54.6%) at 400–500 °C. Other organics, with 1.47% initial moisture content, undergo cellulose decomposition (37.98%) at 200–381 °C and polyester/microfilament degradation (21.3%) at 381–450 °C. Fines display cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition (29.8%) at 200–383 °C and plastics/polyester degradation (43%) at 383–550 °C. LDPE in mixed plastics undergoes pure polymer decomposition at 483.6 °C.
Gender (In)Equity in the Brazilian Paralympic Committee Coverage of the Paralympic Games
Authors: Marcondes Ianamary M. , Cidade Ruth E. , Solves Josep , de Souza Doralice L. 
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the following questions: Was there gender equity in the coverage by the Brazilian Paralympic Committee of the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games? If not, what were the main differences in the treatment of male and female athletes? We compiled all of the Brazilian Paralympic Committee’s publications during both Paralympic Games editions, computed their distribution by gender, and assessed whether the newsworthiness criteria and aspects of text composition were consistently applied across genders. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative analysis of all available publications on the committee’s website during both events. We found that women received less visibility, fewer speech quotations, and fewer protagonist roles. Additionally, we observed that the application of newsworthiness criteria favored men. Our findings reveal issues that can contribute to advancing gender equity in the coverage of national paralympic committees and other media outlets.
Bisphosphonates synergistically enhance the antifungal activity of azoles in dermatophytes and other pathogenic molds
Authors: Kane Aidan , Rothwell Joanna G. , Guttentag Annabel , Hainsworth Steven , Carter Dee 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT

Superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails by fungal dermatophytes are the most prevalent of human mycoses, and many infections are refractory to treatment. As current treatment options are limited, recent research has explored drug synergy with azoles for dermatophytoses. Bisphosphonates, which are approved to treat osteoporosis, can synergistically enhance the activity of azoles in diverse yeast pathogens but their activity has not been explored in dermatophytes or other molds. Market bisphosphonates risedronate, alendronate, and zoledronate (ZOL) were evaluated for antifungal efficacy and synergy with three azole antifungals: fluconazole (FLC), itraconazole (ITR), and ketoconazole (KET). ZOL was the most active bisphosphonate tested, displaying moderate activity against nine dermatophyte species (MIC range 64–256 µg/mL), and was synergistic with KET in eight of these species. ZOL was also able to synergistically improve the anti-biofilm activity of KET and combining KET and ZOL prevented the development of antifungal resistance. Rescue assays in
Trichophyton rubrum
revealed that the inhibitory effects of ZOL alone and in combination with KET were due to the inhibition of squalene synthesis. Fluorescence microscopy using membrane- and ROS-sensitive probes demonstrated that ZOL and KET:ZOL compromised membrane structure and induced oxidative stress. Antifungal activity and synergy between bisphosphonates and azoles were also observed in other clinically relevant molds, including species of
Aspergillus
and
Mucor
. These findings indicate that repurposing bisphosphonates as antifungals is a promising strategy for revitalising certain azoles as topical antifungals, and that this combination could be fast-tracked for investigation in clinical trials.

IMPORTANCE
Fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails, generally grouped together as “tineas” are the most prevalent infectious diseases globally. These infections, caused by fungal species known as dermatophytes, are generally superficial, but can in some cases become aggressive. They are also notoriously difficult to resolve, with few effective treatments and rising levels of drug resistance. Here, we report a potential new treatment that combines azole antifungals with bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are approved for the treatment of low bone density diseases, and in fungi they inhibit the biosynthesis of the cell membrane, which is also the target of azoles. Combinations were synergistic across the dermatophyte species and prevented the development of resistance. We extended the study to molds that cause invasive disease, finding synergy in some problematic species. We suggest bisphosphonates could be repurposed as synergents for tinea treatment, and that this combination could be fast-tracked for use in clinical therapy.
Age–period–cohort analysis of the global burden of visual impairment according to major causes: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Chen Jianqi , Zhu Yingting , Li Zhidong , Zhuo Xiaohua , Zhang Shaochong , Zhuo Yehong 
Published: June 2024

Background
Cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are major causes of visual impairment. As these are age-related conditions, the prevalence of associated visual impairment is anticipated to increase as the population ages. However, age–period–cohort effects on the disease burden have not been investigated.

Methods
This was a population-based study using aggregated data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Age–period–cohort analysis was conducted using age-standardised prevalence rates (ASPRs) of visual impairment caused by cataract, glaucoma and AMD as disease burden indicator.

Results
In 2019, the estimated global ASPRs of visual impairment due to cataract, glaucoma and AMD were 1207.9, 94.7 and 96.8 per 100 000 people, respectively. Between 1990 and 2019, the global visual impairment ASPRs for glaucoma and AMD declined by 15.4% and 2.0%, respectively, whereas that for cataract increased by 5.0%. Wide heterogeneity was observed in age–period–cohort effects on ASPRs across different Sociodemographic Index (SDI) regions. Low-middle SDI regions had the largest ASPR reductions for all three eye diseases and showed improvement in both period and cohort effects. In contrast, in high-middle SDI regions, visual impairment ASPRs significantly increased during the study period with unfavourable patterns.

Conclusions
The wide heterogeneity in age–period–cohort effects reflects different stages of societal transition and vision health. The unfavourable trends in age–period–cohort effects on disease prevalence identified in specific groups provide key information that may be used to identify priority groups in need of treatment and prevention.
Exome sequencing of 1190 non-syndromic clubfoot cases reveals
HOXD12
as a novel disease gene
Authors: Charng Wu-Lin , Nikolov Momchil , Shrestha Isabel , Seeley Mark A , Josyula Navya Shilpa , Justice Anne E , Dobbs Matthew B , Gurnett Christina A 
Published: June 2024

Background
Clubfoot, presenting as a rigid inward and downward turning of the foot, is one of the most common congenital musculoskeletal anomalies. The aetiology of clubfoot is poorly understood and variants in known clubfoot disease genes account for only a small portion of the heritability.

Methods
Exome sequence data were generated from 1190 non-syndromic clubfoot cases and their family members from multiple ethnicities. Ultra-rare variant burden analysis was performed comparing 857 unrelated clubfoot cases with European ancestry with two independent ethnicity-matched control groups (1043 in-house and 56 885 gnomAD controls). Additional variants in prioritised genes were identified in a larger cohort, including probands with non-European ancestry. Segregation analysis was performed in multiplex families when available.

Results

Rare variants in 29 genes were enriched in clubfoot cases, including
PITX1
(a known clubfoot disease gene),
HOXD12
,
COL12A1
,
COL9A3
and
LMX1B
. In addition, rare variants in posterior
HOX
genes (
HOX9–13
) were enriched overall in clubfoot cases. In total, variants in these genes were present in 8.4% (100/1190) of clubfoot cases with both European and non-European ancestry. Among these, 3 are
de novo
and 22 show variable penetrance, including 4
HOXD12
variants that segregate with clubfoot.

Conclusion

We report
HOXD12
as a novel clubfoot disease gene and demonstrate a phenotypic expansion of known disease genes (myopathy gene
COL12A1
, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome gene
COL9A3
and nail-patella syndrome gene
LMX1B
) to include isolated clubfoot.
Two-loop contributions of axion-like particles to electromagnetic and chromomagnetic form factors
Authors: Neubert Matthias , Schnubel Marvin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAxions and axion-like particles emerge in many models for physics beyond the Standard Model. Thus, they have gained increasing research interest in both experimental and theoretical physics apart from their original proposition as a solution to the strong CP-problem. Among other aspects it has recently been shown that ALPs can potentially provide a solution to the long-lasting discrepancy between theory and experiment of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. Provided that the ALP has flavor-violating couplings to leptons, they can also mediate flavor-violating decays like $$\mu \rightarrow e\gamma $$

μ
→
e
γ

. Both processes are mediated through related form factors that we compute to two-loop order. We further show numerical implications of our calculations and how they might affect constraints on ALP couplings derived from experiments.
Possible existence of Rastall–Rainbow wormholes in dark matter galactic halos
Authors: Errehymy Abdelghani , Banerjee Ayan , Hansraj Sudan , Donmez Orhan , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Abdel-Aty Abdel-Haleem 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe Rastall–Rainbow gravity theory has recently been proposed as a combination of the Rastall and rainbow theories. This theory can be thought as a generalization of the Rastall gravity to an energy dependent Rastall theory, and leads to an additional degrees of freedom. In this paper, we construct models that admit the wormhole geometries within this theory. We analyze the properties of static wormholes based on the profiles of dark matter halos, which was demonstrated earlier in Rahaman et al. (Eur Phys J C 74:2750, 2014) that galactic halo possesses the necessary properties in favour of the existence of wormholes. The main properties are being analyzed by considering three different kinds of halo density profiles. Our results indicate that such wormholes could potentially exist but the NEC is violated in the vicinity of the wormhole throat. We have further examined the stability of the configuration through the adiabatic sound velocity.
Cosmology of the interacting Tsallis holographic dark energy in f(R,T) gravity framework
Authors: Sultana Sanjeeda , Ranjit Chayan , Chattopadhyay Surajit , Güdekli Ertan 
Published: June 2024

In this work, we have analyzed the cosmology of the Tsallis holographic dark energy (THDE), a particular case of Nojiri–Odintsov HDE proposed in [S. Nojiri and S. D. Odintsov, Gen. Relativ. Gravit. 38 (2006) 1285; Eur. Phys. J. C 77 (2017) 528], using Hubble’s horizon cutoff in [Formula: see text] model considering pressureless dark matter. We have examined the equation of state (EoS) parameters in this scenario. The deceleration parameter has been evaluated for this interacting model to justify the late-time acceleration of the expanding universe. We have also studied the cosmological consequences of Statefinder pair, [Formula: see text] diagnostics, r–q plane and [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] pair for interacting THDE in [Formula: see text] model. We have also illustrated the cosmology of the interacting THDE using Hubble’s horizon cutoff in [Formula: see text] model. The EoS parameter, deceleration parameter and Statefinder pair are studied in this interacting scenario. Attainment of [Formula: see text]CDM fixed point has been observed for both models. We have also constrained model parameters based on observational data sets through the formalism of [Formula: see text] minimum test.
Road-Map to Epicardial Approach for Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Structural Heart Disease: Results From a 10-Year Tertiary-Center Experience
Authors: Bisceglia Caterina , Limite Luca R. , Baratto Francesca , D’Angelo Giuseppe , Cireddu Manuela , Della Bella Paolo 
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:
Epicardial approach in ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation is still regarded as a second-step strategy, due to the risk of complications. We evaluated the frequency that epicardial ablation targets were identified and ablation performed following pericardial access compared with unnecessary pericardial access for different VT causes and potential markers of epicardial VT.

METHODS:
All VT ablation procedures including epicardial approach over a 10-year period were included. First-line epicardial approach was indicated in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and postmyocarditis VT; in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) and postmyocardial infarction, indications resulted from available imaging techniques or 12-lead VT morphology. The epicardial approach was considered useful if epicardial ablation was performed after epicardial mapping. Feasibility, complications, and long-term outcome were reported.

RESULTS:

Four hundred and eighty-eight subjects with a median age of 60 years (interquartile range, 47–65) and of left ventricle ejection fraction 41% (interquartile range, 30–55) underwent 626 epicardial VT ablations. Percutaneous access had a success rate of 92.2% and a complication rate of 3.6%. Overall, epicardial approach was, respectively, indicated to 11.8% of postmyocardial infarction patients, 49.5% in IDCM, 94% in myocarditis, and 90.7% in ARVC. Epicardial ablation at the first ablation attempt was performed in 9.3% of postmyocardial infarction patients, 28.8% in IDCM, 86.5% in myocarditis, and 81.3% in patients with ARVC. In first-line epicardial group, ARVC and myocarditis showed the highest odds for epicardial ablation (OR, 4.057 [95% CI, 1.299–8.937];
P
=0.007; OR, 3.971 [95% CI, 1.376–11.465];
P
=0.005, respectively). IDCM independently predicted unnecessary epicardial approach (OR, 2.7 [95% CI, 1.7–4.3];
P
<0.001). After a follow-up of 41 months (interquartile range, 19–64), patients with IDCM experienced higher rate of recurrences and mortality compared with other causes.

CONCLUSIONS:
Epicardial approach is integral part of ablation armamentarium regardless of the VT cause, with high feasibility and low complication rate in experienced centers. Our data support its use at first ablation attempt in VTs related to ARVC and myocarditis.
Centaurs and the Sacred Tree
Authors: Shareth Omri 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Zechariah 4:12 has been perplexing exegetes and scholars throughout the ages, hampering efforts to explain the message of the lampstand vision in Zech 4 as a whole. The current paper will suggest a path towards a solution by showing that the hapax legomenon צנתרות in this verse means “centaurs.” This claim, which found little support in research so far, reaches its full persuasive power by a deep linguistic, exegetical, and cultural-comparative analysis. Namely, it will be argued that phonetically *צנתר fully accords with κένταυρος if the palatalization /k/ > [t͡s] is assumed, and when Jerome’s overlooked reading sinthoroth is considered. This interpretation is further supported by iconographic data which has so far escaped the scholarly discussion of this verse. As it demonstrates, Zech 4 is based on the Sacred Tree motif iconography, in which hybrid entities are only expected.
Evaluation of oviposition substrates for laboratory rearing of pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Naik V. Chinna Babu , Supreeth G. Sham , Tenguri Prabhulinga , Prasad Y.G. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Cotton (Gossypium sp.) is the one of the major commercial fibre crops cultivated across the country. The yield is severely affected by insect pests and diseases. Pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders, 1844) is one of the major insect pests threatening the cultivation of cotton. The major constraint limiting cotton production is resistance, which prevails to date due to the indiscriminate use of the insecticides and noncompliance of the refugia. Hence the status of the pest needs to be ascertained periodically to initiate timely and dynamic management tactics. For conducting laboratory screening, a higher number of individuals is the prime requirement, which is facilitated through mass-rearing techniques. We have evaluated different oviposition substrates like paper and muslin cloth for enhancing the recovery of eggs. Our results are quite promising and the use of black muslin cloth has shown a recovery of eggs on par with natural substrate (cotton twig). Adoption of the artificial substrate has huge potential in rearing techniques and avoids drawbacks like tissue drying, carry-over of diseases and reusability.
Outcomes of Combined Opioids and Benzodiazepines Consumption in Elderly Trauma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Alser Osaid , Dorken Gallastegi Ander , El Moheb Mohamad , Raybould Toby , DePesa Christopher , Gervasini Alice , Flaherty Michael , Masiakos Peter T. , Velmahos George C. , Kaafarani Haytham , Parks Jonathan 
Published: June 2024

Background Acute substance intoxication is associated with traumatic injury and worse hospital outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between simultaneous opioids and benzodiazepines (OB) use and hospital outcomes in elderly trauma patients. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis using the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (ACS-TQIP) 2017 database. We included trauma patients (age ≥ 65 years) examined by urine toxicology within 24 hours of presentation. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital and ICU lengths of stay (HLOS AND ICULOS), in-hospital complications (eg, ventilator-associated pneumonia), unplanned intubation, and duration of mechanical ventilation. Patients were stratified being both positive for opioids and benzodiazepines (OB+) or not (OB−) based on having positive or negative drug screen for both drugs, respectively. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed controlling for demographics (eg, age and sex), comorbidities (eg, alcoholism), and injury characteristics. Results Of 77,311 tested patients, 849 OB+ were matched to OB− patients. Compared to OB− group, OB+ patients were more likely to have unplanned intubation (26 [3.1%] vs 8 [0.9%], P = 0.002) and had prolonged HLOS (≥2 days: 683 [84.0%] vs 625 [77.8%], P = 0.002). There were no differences in all other outcomes ( P > 0.05). Conclusions The OB intake is associated with higher incidence of unplanned intubation and longer HLOS in elderly trauma patients. Early identification of elderly trauma patient with OB+ can help provide necessary pharmacologic and behavioral interventions to treat their substance use and potentially improve outcomes.
In their own words: Police officers’ insights on identifying and overcoming contemporary policing challenges
Authors: Kassem Rasha , Erken Engin 
Published: June 2024

This study uses semi-structured interviews to investigate 26 police officers’ insights on identifying and overcoming contemporary policing challenges in the UK. The findings reveal that the primary challenges include (a) public trust in the police, (b) police officers’ recruitment and retention, (c) resourcing and funding, (d) a lack of adequate training, (e) the undefined police role and (f) the prevention of complex crimes, mainly fraud and cybercrime. The study highlighted the reasons for these challenges and how they can be addressed, as seen through police officers’ eyes. The findings have implications for policing research, governance, leadership and legitimacy, which are later discussed. Points for practitioners Public management and administration practitioners must prioritise public trust, recruitment, training, resource allocation and addressing complex crime. Collaboration with police officers and their perspectives are vital in decision-making, policy development and police legitimacy. Strengthening accountability, integrity and officer training rebuilds public trust. Learning from attractive employers, broadening police roles to include intellectual abilities and improving pay and community trust address recruitment challenges.