bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short‐term outcomes of dogs and cats undergoing lung lobectomy using either a self‐ligating loop or a thoracoabdominal stapler
Authors: Sandoval Daniel M. , Stobie Daniel , Valenzano Dominick M. , Zuendt Gregory F. , Lopez Daniel J.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To assess clinical outcomes of lung lobectomies in dogs and cats using either self‐ligating loops (SLLs) or thoracoabdominal (TA) staplers, aiming to inform sample size calculations for future superiority trials.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

A total of 72 dogs and 15 cats.

Methods

Records from January 2003 to October 2023 at a single institution were reviewed. Cases with lung lobectomy performed via TA stapler or SLL with a minimum 14‐day postoperative follow‐up were included. Pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative data were collected, with outcomes of interest including the frequency of intra‐ and postoperative complications. Outcome comparisons between techniques were performed to inform sample size calculations.

Results

A total of 101 lung lobectomies were performed. The TA stapler was used in 83 (82.2%) and the SLL in 18 (17.8%) lung lobectomies. Intraoperative complications were identified in 14/101 lung lobectomies (13.9%), including intraoperative hemorrhage in 12/101 lobectomies (11.8%) and air leakage in 2/101 lobectomies (1.9%). Postoperative complications were identified in 12/87 cases (13.8%), including 4 (4.6%) catastrophic complications and 5 (5.8%) major complications. All intra‐ and postoperative complications occurred in cases having undergone stapled lung lobectomy; however, no differences were identified between surgical technique and either intraoperative (p = .069) or postoperative complications (p = .112). A sample size of 103 lobectomies per technique group would be required for appropriate evaluation.

Conclusion

Lung lobectomy using either surgical technique provided a good short‐term outcome in this population.

Clinical significance

Self‐ligating loop lung lobectomy provided a comparable alternative to stapled lung lobectomy. Further studies are needed to assess technique superiority.
Mechanical comparison of straight and pre‐bent interlocking nails used for the stabilization of a tibial gap fracture model
Authors: Chung William C. , Déjardin Loïc M.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To compare the mechanical behavior of straight (STRT) and pre‐bent (BENT) I‐Loc angle‐stable interlocking nails (AS‐ILN) used for stabilization of canine mid‐diaphyseal tibial fractures.

Study design

In vitro experimental study.

Sample population

Tibial gap fracture models (n = 5/group).

Methods

Tibial models simulating a comminuted mid‐diaphyseal fracture were stabilized with either a STRT or BENT I‐Loc AS‐ILN. Bent nails were contoured to match the 10° tibial recurvatum of a mid‐size dog. Constructs were subjected to cyclic eccentric compressive loads followed by ramp load until failure. Construct compliance, maximum compressive load and resistive torque, yield load and angular deformation at 450 N were statistically compared using t‐tests (p < .05). Failure modes were described.

Results

Compliance was 45% lower in BENT than STRT groups (p < .0001). Constructs in the BENT group sustained ~20% and 34% greater maximum and yield loads, respectively, than STRT constructs. Maximum resistive torques were similar between groups (p = .16). At 450 N, sagittal plane angular deformation increased from 0° to 4° in procurvatum (STRT group) and decreased from 10° to 8° in recurvatum (BENT group—p < .0001). Construct yield failure occurred at the nail isthmus in both groups.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that, in a tibial gap fracture model, pre‐bending I‐Loc AS‐ILNs provided mechanical advantages by increasing their ability to resist bending resulting from eccentric compressive loads.

Clinical significance

Pre‐bending may reduce the occurrence of tibial nail yield failure. Surgeons should therefore consider pre‐bending tibial I‐Loc nails to match the bone anatomical recurvatum prior to implantation.
Reconstruction of a Matrix of Genotypic Correlations between Variants within a Gene for Joint Analysis of Imputed and Sequenced Data
Authors: Svishcheva G. R. , Kirichenko A. V. , Belonogova N. M. , Elgaeva E. E. , Tsepilov Ya. A. , Zorkoltseva I. V. , Axenovich T. I.
Published: July 2024

Abstract—

When combining imputed and sequenced data in a single gene-based association analysis, the problem of reconstructing genetic correlation matrices arises. It is related to the fact that the correlations between genotypes of all imputed variants and the correlations between genotypes of all sequenced variants are known for a gene but we do not know the correlations between genotypes of variants, one of which is imputed, and the other is sequenced. To recover these correlations, we propose an efficient method based on maximising the determinant of the matrix. This method has a number of useful properties and an analytical solution for our task. Approbation of the proposed method was performed by comparing reconstructed and real correlation matrices constructed on individual genotypes from the UK Biobank. Comparison of the results of gene-based association analysis performed by the SKAT, BT, and PCA methods on reconstructed and real matrices using modelled summary statistics and calculated summary statistics on real phenotypes showed high quality of reconstruction and robustness of the method to different gene structures.
Association of complete blood count parameters with the risk of incident pulmonary heart disease in pneumoconiosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Lifang , Peng Shanshan , Wei Yuhao , Yu Wenao , Liao Jiaqiang , Du Wen , Shi Ying , He Qiurong , Wu Dongsheng , Chen Li , Han Su , Zhang Ling , Shen Jiang , Jiang Xia , Li Jiayuan , Peng Lijun , Zhang Ben , Yao Yuqin , Zhang Qin
Published: July 2024

Background

Pneumoconiosis mostly combines pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases, among which pulmonary heart disease (PHD) is of major concern due to its significant impact on the survival of pneumoconiosis patients. White cell count (WCC), red cell distribution width (RDW) and platelet parameters are thought to affect inflammatory responses and may be predictors of various cardiovascular diseases. However, very few studies have focused on PHD.

Objectives

To examine the relationship between baseline complete blood count parameters (WCC, RDW, platelet parameters) and the risk of incident PHD in pneumoconiosis patients.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

This was a single-centre, retrospective cohort study that used data from an Occupational Disease Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan.

Participants

A total of 946 pneumoconiosis patients from January 2012 to November 2021 were included in the study. Female patients and patients who had PHD, coronary heart disease, hypertensive heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, oncological disease, multiple organ dysfunction, AIDS at baseline and follow-up time of less than 6 months were also excluded.

Outcome measures

We identified PHD according to the patient’s discharge diagnosis. We constructed Cox proportional hazard regression models to assess the HR of incident PHD in pneumoconiosis, as well as 95% CIs.

Results

In the multiple Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, platelet count (PLT) and plateletcrit (PCT) above the median at baseline were associated with an increased risk of PHD in pneumoconiosis with adjusted HR of 1.52 (95% CI 1.09 to 2.12) and 1.42 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.99), respectively.

Conclusion

Higher baseline PLT and PCT are associated with a higher risk of PHD in pneumoconiosis.
Effect of pectineus muscle plane block versus femoral nerve block for postoperative analgesia and early recovery after knee surgery: a randomised controlled trial study protocol
Authors: Wang Qian , Men Xin , Xue Yan , Qin Xia-rong
Published: July 2024

Background

Femoral nerve block (FNB) is a prevalent method used for postoperative pain management after knee surgery; however, it decreases the strength of the quadriceps muscle and is not conducive to early recovery after surgery. Pectineus muscle plane (PMP) block involves the injection of a local anaesthetic into the fascial plane below the pectineus muscle, where it blocks the obturator and saphenous nerves. However, there is little evidence on the effectiveness of PMP block for analgesia after knee surgery. The aim of this trial is to assess whether PMP block can improve postoperative analgesia, promote early recovery and reduce the length of hospital stay.

Methods and analysis

In this randomised controlled study, 46 patients will be randomly allocated into two groups: the PMP block group (n=23) and the FNB group (n=23). The primary outcome measures will include Visual Analog Scale scores for pain at rest and during movement at various time points following knee surgery. Secondary outcomes will include the degree of active flexion, straight leg raise test performance, get-out-of-bed test result, 20 m walk test result, total dose administered via patient-controlled analgesia infusion pumps, hospital stay duration, patient satisfaction and postoperative complications, such as pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis.

This study protocol adheres to rigorous standards for ethical conduct and patient safety. The findings from this trial are expected to contribute valuable insights to the optimisation of postoperative pain management strategies and the improvement of early recovery outcomes for patients who undergo knee surgery.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the ethics committee of Zhejiang Hospital (2022(128K)) on 17 November 2022, and inpatients who meet the inclusion criteria and diagnostic requirements are eligible for this study. Any subsequent protocol and informed consent document amendments must be approved by the responsible ethics committee. All communications with the regulatory authorities and the ethics committee must be recorded. All recruited patients will be informed of the trial purposes and their duties within the trial before randomisation. Recruited patients can withdraw from the study at any time without providing any specific reason. The patient data will be stored in a separate, safe place, but that it may be reviewed by the relevant investigator. The results will be published in international peer-reviewed medical journals.

Trial registration number

http://www.chictr.org.cn, ID: ChiCTR2300076018. Registered on 21 September 2023.
Surveillance of global, travel-related illness using a novel app: a multivariable, cross-sectional study
Authors: Lovey Thibault , Hedrich Nadja , Grobusch Martin Peter , Bernhard Julian , Schlagenhauf Patricia
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Current traveller health surveillance is ‘top-down’. Mobile-based surveillance could capture infection symptoms in real time. We aimed to evaluate the spectrum of illness in travellers using a mobile app-based system.

Methods

This study (ClinicalTrials.govNCT04672577) used an application called Infection Tracking in Travellers (ITIT) that records travel-related illness symptoms with associated geolocation and weather data. The free ITIT app is available in 14 languages. Participants were recruited globally from April 2022 to July 2023. Participants >18 years of age travelled internationally and provided electronic consent. Incentives included the provision of travel health information imported from the WHO website. Symptoms were recorded with daily pop-up questionnaires and symptom severity was assessed using a Likert scale. Two post-travel questionnaires were administered. Logistic mixed models examined factors relating to symptom presence, and a random forest model examined symptom impact.

Results

609 participants were recruited until July 2023. Participants had an average age of 37 years (18–79), and an average travel duration of 26 days (2–281). Most participants were travelling for leisure/tourism (401; 66%), followed by ‘visiting friends and relatives’ (99; 16%) and business travel (80; 13%). All continents were visited by at least one traveller. Of 470 registered trips, symptoms were reported on 163 trips (35%). Gastrointestinal symptoms were reported on 87 trips (19%) and respiratory symptoms on 81 trips (17%). The most important factors in predicting the presence of symptoms were duration of travel, travelling in winter and high humidity. Diarrhoea, headache and nausea were symptoms with most impact on daily activities. Post-travel questionnaires showed that 12% of surveyed participants experienced symptoms with several episodes of self-treatment. Two diagnoses were recorded: Lyme disease and amoebic dysentery.

Conclusion

The digital tool ITIT successfully captures the spectrum of travel-related illness. This detailed epidemiology is crucial for outbreak detection and for the formulation of travel medicine guidelines.

Trial registration number

NCT04672577.
Boosting enjoyment and social inclusion to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour among older adults: protocol for a feasibility study to test the JOIN4JOY approach in five European countries
Authors: Coll-Planas Laura , Fuente-Vidal Andrea , Jerez-Roig Javier , Karkauskienė Erika , Romero-Mas Montse , Intxaurrondo Aimar , Caserotti Paolo , Skjødt Mathias , Dallmeier Dhayana , Lefebvre Guillaume , Bassinah Lucie , Forgione Dolores , Castro Ricard , Minobes-Molina Eduard , Parés-Martínez Carles , Blancafort Alias Sergi , Roman-Viñas Blanca , Socorro-Cumplido José Luis , Nieto-Guisado Ainhoa , Sansano-Nadal Oriol , Giné-Garriga Maria
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Programmes for older people aimed at increasing physical activity (PA) and reducing sedentary behaviour (SB) traditionally focus on achieving functional and health improvements. Focusing on enjoyment and social inclusion could strengthen adherence and help reach older people with social disadvantages. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Join4Joy approach in PA programmes and its assessment tools.

Methods and analysis

A multicentric, pragmatic, pre-post feasibility study using mixed methods will be conducted. The intervention will consist of a PA programme boosting enjoyment and social inclusion, grounded on a co-creation process. Trainers will offer twelve, 1-hour weekly sessions of structured, supervised, group-based PA. Participants will be encouraged to increase activity in daily living. 144 older people will be recruited from the community and nursing homes in Spain, Denmark, Italy, Germany, and France. Additionally, participants and trainers will be invited to join virtual communities of practice to share their experiences across settings and countries. Qualitative procedures will be used to explore the acceptability of the design via interviews and focus groups with participants and trainers. Quantitative methods will be used to assess uptake, adherence, retention, reach, satisfaction, enjoyment (PACES questionnaire), physical function (e.g., Short Physical Performance Battery), quality of life (EQ-5D-5L scale), perceived improvement (Patient Global Impression of Improvement scale-I), activities of daily living (Barthel index) and SB and PA patterns (IPAQ and accelerometry). The degree and type of participation in virtual communities of practice will also be assessed. SPSS software will be used for the analysis of quantitative variables. Qualitative data will be analysed using reflective thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke (2006).

Ethics and dissemination

A favourable report by the Research Ethics Committee of UVic-UCC (282/2023) was obtained on 26 June 26th, 2023. Participation and withdrawal will be voluntary. Participants’ (or their legal guardians’, when necessary) written permission will be required. Results of the study will be disseminated through publication of scientific articles, presentations at sport and health-related professional conferences and congresses, as well as through social media and via the Join4Joy website.

Study registration

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT06100835.
Interventions to improve system-level coproduction in the Cystic Fibrosis Learning Network
Authors: Gamel Breck , Albon Dana , Bandla Srujana , Davison David W , Flath Jonathan , Sabadosa Kathryn A , Seid Michael , Silva Lindsay , Ong Thida
Published: July 2024

Background

Coproduction is defined as patients and clinicians collaborating equally and reciprocally in healthcare and is a crucial concept for quality improvement (QI) of health services. Learning Health Networks (LHNs) provide insights to integrate coproduction with QI efforts from programmes from various health systems.

Objective

We describe interventions to develop and maintain patient and family partner (PFP) coproduction, measured by PFP-reported and programme-reported scales. We aim to increase percentage of programmes with PFPs reporting active QI work within their programme, while maintaining satisfaction in PFP-clinician relationships.

Methods

Conducted in the Cystic Fibrosis Learning Network (CFLN), an LHN comprising over 30 cystic fibrosis (CF) programmes, people with CF, caregivers and clinicians cocreated interventions in readiness awareness, inclusive PFP recruitment, onboarding process, partnership development and leadership opportunities. Interventions were adapted by CFLN programmes and summarised in a change package for existing programmes and the orientation of new ones. We collected monthly assessments for PFP and programme perceptions of coproduction and PFP self-rated competency of QI skills and satisfaction with programme QI efforts. We used control charts to analyse coproduction scales and run charts for PFP self-ratings.

Results

Between 2018 and 2022, the CFLN expanded to 34 programmes with 52% having ≥1 PFP reporting active QI participation. Clinicians from 76% of programmes reported PFPs were actively participating or leading QI efforts. PFPs reported increased QI skills competency (17%–32%) and consistently high satisfaction and feeling valued in their work.

Conclusions

Implementing system-level programmatic strategies to engage and sustain partnerships between clinicians and patients and families with CF improved perceptions of coproduction to conduct QI work. Key adaptable strategies for programmes included onboarding and QI training, supporting multiple PFPs simultaneously and developing financial recognition processes. Interventions may be applicable in other health conditions beyond CF seeking to foster the practice of coproduction.
Phase II basket trial of Dual Anti-CTLA-4 and Anti-PD-1 blockade in Rare Tumors (DART) SWOG S1609: adrenocortical carcinoma cohort
Authors: Patel Sandip P , Othus Megan , Chae Young Kwang , Huynh Tridu , Tan Benjamin , Kuzel Timothy , McLeod Christine , Lopez Gabby , Chen Helen X , Sharon Elad , Streicher Howard , Ryan Christopher W , Blanke Charles , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Multiple common cancers benefit from immunotherapy; however, less is known about efficacy in rare tumors. We report the results of the adrenocortical carcinoma cohort of NCI/SWOG S1609 Dual Anti-CTLA-4 and Anti-PD-1 blockade in Rare Tumors.

Design/setting

A prospective, phase 2 clinical trial of ipilimumab plus nivolumab was conducted by the SWOG Early Therapeutics and Rare Cancers Committee for multiple rare tumor cohorts across >1,000 National Clinical Trial Network sites.

Participants

21 eligible patients were registered. Median age was 53 years (range 26–69); 16 (76%) were women.

Interventions

Ipilimumab 1 mg/kg intravenously every 6 weeks with nivolumab 240 mg intravenously every 2 weeks was administered until disease progression, symptomatic deterioration, treatment delay for any reason >56 days, unacceptable or immune-related toxicity with inability to decrease prednisone to <10 mg daily, or per patient request.

Main outcome measures

The primary endpoint was the overall response rate (ORR) (RECIST V.1.1). Secondary endpoints include clinical benefit rate (CBR) (includes stable disease (SD)>6 months), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicity. Immune-related outcomes included immune ORR (iORR), immune CBR (iCBR), and immune PFS (iPFS). A two-stage design was used assuming: null=5% alternative=30%, n=6 in the first stage, 16 max, one-sided alpha=13%.

Results

The median number of prior therapy lines was 2 (range: 1–9). 3 of 21 patients attained confirmed partial response (PR) (ORR=14%). In addition, one patient had an unconfirmed PR; one, stable disease (SD)>6 months; one, immune-related RECIST (iRECIST) PR (iPR); and one patient attained iSD>6 months: clinical benefit rate (response or SD>6 months)=5/21 (24%), iORR=4/21 (19%), iCBR=7/21 (33%). The 6-month PFS was 24%; 6-month iPFS, 33%. The PFS for patients (N=7) with iRECIST clinical benefit were 57, 52, 18, 15, 13, 7, and 7 months. The 6-month OS was 76%; the median OS, was 15.8 months. The most common toxicities were fatigue (62%) and rash (38%), and the most common grade 3/4 immune-related adverse events were hepatic dysfunction (9.5%) and adrenal insufficiency (9.5%). Treatment-related adverse events leading to discontinuation of therapy in four patients (21%). There were no grade 5 adverse events.

Conclusions

Ipilimumab plus nivolumab is active in refractory metastatic adrenocortical cancer meeting the primary endpoint of the study, with a 19% iORR and 33% iCBR (includes SD/iSD>6 months) and with the longest PFS/iPFS of 52 and 57 months.

Trial registration number

NCT02834013(registered 15 July, 2016;https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02834013).
Density of tertiary lymphoid structures predicts clinical outcome in breast cancer brain metastasis
Authors: Zhao Yuan-Yuan , Fan Zhen , Tao Bao-Rui , Du Zun-Guo , Shi Zhi-Feng
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients with breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) experience a rapid decline in their quality of life. Recently, tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs), analogs of secondary lymphoid organs, have attracted extensive attention. However, the potential clinical implications of TLSs in BCBMs are poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated the density and composition of TLSs in BCBMs and described their prognostic value.

Methods

Clinicopathological data were collected from 98 patients (2015–2021). TLSs were evaluated, and a TLS scoring system was constructed. Differences in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) between groups were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Immunohistochemistry and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) were used to assess TLSs heterogeneity.

Results

TLSs were identified in 47 patients with BCBM. High TLSs density indicated favorable survival (OS, p=0.003; PFS, p<0.001). TLS was positively associated with OS (p=0.0172) and PFS (p=0.0161) in the human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2-positive subtype, and with prolonged OS (p=0.0482) in the triple-negative breast cancer subtype. The mIF results showed significant differences in the percentages of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, M2 macrophages, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and CD8+TIM-3+T lymphocytes between the groups of TLS scores 0–3 (cytotoxic T lymphocytes, p=0.044; Tfh, p=0.021; M2 macrophages, p=0.033; CD8+TIM-3+T lymphocytes, p=0.018). Furthermore, novel nomograms incorporating the TLS scores and other clinicopathological predictors demonstrated prominent predictability of the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year outcomes of BCBMs (area under the curve >0.800).

Conclusion

Our results highlight the impact of TLSs abundance on the OS and PFS of patients with BCBM. Additionally, we described the immune composition of TLSs and proposed novel nomograms to predict the prognosis of patients with BCBM.
Changes in the incidence and prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus between 1990 and 2020: an observational study using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD)
Authors: Ellis Jessica , McHugh Neil , Pauling John D , Bruce Ian N , Charlton Rachel , McGrogan Anita , Skeoch Sarah
Published: July 2024

Objective

To obtain updated estimates on the incidence and prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the UK, over the period 1990–2020, using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study using the CPRD covering the period 1990–2020. A case ascertainment algorithm was developed in line with best practice recommendations for observational research. Incidence was calculated per 100 000 person-years and point prevalence (at the mid-year point) calculated per 100 000. Results were stratified by sex.

Results

9443 SLE cases were identified. 5278 incident cases were identified (4538 women, 740 men). The overall incidence rate was 5.47 (95% CI 5.33 to 5.62) cases per 100 000 person-years. Incidence rates decreased slightly across the study period, which was more pronounced for women than men. Point prevalence increased over time, from 21.4 (95% CI 17.68 to 25.67) per 100 000 in 1990 to 107.14 (95% CI 103.26 to 111.12) per 100 000 in 2020.

Conclusions

The observed fivefold increase in prevalence of SLE over the last 30 years, in the context of a modest decline in incidence rate, may suggest improved outcomes in SLE and has important implications for healthcare service delivery and planning in the UK.
A dispersive study of final-state interactions in $$K\rightarrow \pi \pi \pi $$ amplitudes
Authors: Bernard Véronique , Descotes-Genon Sébastien , Knecht Marc , Moussallam Bachir
Published: July 2024

A system of dispersive representations of the Omnès–Khuri–Treiman–Sawyer–Wali type for the final-state interactions in the amplitudes of the$$K\rightarrow \pi \pi \pi $$K→πππweak transitions is constructed, under the assumptions that CP and isospin symmetries are conserved. Both the$$\Delta I = 1/2$$ΔI=1/2and$$\Delta I = 3/2$$ΔI=3/2transition channels are considered. The set of single-variable functions involved in these representations is identified, and the polynomial ambiguities in their definitions are discussed. Numerical solutions for the system of coupled integral relations satisfied by these functions are provided, and the determination of the subtraction constants in terms of the experimental information on the amplitudes in the decay region is addressed.
Crowd Counting Using Meta-Test-Time Adaptation
Authors: Ma Chaoqun , Neri Ferrante , Gu Li , Wang Ziqiang , Wang Jian , Qing Anyong , Wang Yang
Published: July 2024

Machine learning algorithms are commonly used for quickly and efficiently counting people from a crowd. Test-time adaptation methods for crowd counting adjust model parameters and employ additional data augmentation to better adapt the model to the specific conditions encountered during testing. The majority of current studies concentrate on unsupervised domain adaptation. These approaches commonly perform hundreds of epochs of training iterations, requiring a sizable number of unannotated data of every new target domain apart from annotated data of the source domain. Unlike these methods, we propose a meta-test-time adaptive crowd counting approach called CrowdTTA, which integrates the concept of test-time adaptation into the meta-learning framework and makes it easier for the counting model to adapt to the unknown test distributions. To facilitate the reliable supervision signal at the pixel level, we introduce uncertainty by inserting the dropout layer into the counting model. The uncertainty is then used to generate valuable pseudo labels, serving as effective supervisory signals for adapting the model. In the context of meta-learning, one image can be regarded as one task for crowd counting. In each iteration, our approach is a dual-level optimization process. In the inner update, we employ a self-supervised consistency loss function to optimize the model so as to simulate the parameters update process that occurs during the test phase. In the outer update, we authentically update the parameters based on the image with ground truth, improving the model’s performance and making the pseudo labels more accurate in the next iteration. At test time, the input image is used for adapting the model before testing the image. In comparison to various supervised learning and domain adaptation methods, our results via extensive experiments on diverse datasets showcase the general adaptive capability of our approach across datasets with varying crowd densities and scales.
A Federated Learning Protocol for Spiking Neural Membrane Systems
Authors: Pleşa Mihail-Iulian , Gheorghe Marian , Ipate Florentin , Zhang Gexiang
Published: July 2024

Although deep learning models have shown promising results in solving problems related to image recognition or natural language processing, they do not match how the biological brain works. Some of the differences include the amount of energy consumed, the way neurons communicate, or the way they learn. To close the gap between artificial neural networks and biological ones, researchers proposed the spiking neural network. Layered Spiking Neural P systems (LSN P systems) are networks of spiking neurons used to solve various classification problems. In this paper, we study the LSN P systems in the context of a federated learning client–server architecture over horizontally partitioned data. We analyze the privacy implications of pre-trained LSN P systems through membership inference attacks. We also perform experiments to assess the performance of an LSN P system trained in the federated learning setup. Our findings suggest that LSN P systems demonstrate higher accuracy and faster convergence compared to federated algorithms based on either perceptron or spiking neural networks.
Path-wise continuous-time transmission with applications in source identification from partial observations
Authors: Zhang Qi , Shi Chaoyi , Li Rui , Chu Tianguang
Published: July 2024

Tracing the origin of information spread in social networks is a crucial yet challenging issue. Different from prior studies largely centered on discrete-time transmission frameworks, this paper fulfills source identification for continuous-time diffusion networks. Specifically, a path-wise continuous-time transmission model is first proposed to unveil the probabilistic dynamic through potential paths, based on which the probability of the incomplete cascade under partial observations can be yielded. Finally, a path-wise continuous-time source identification method (PCSI) is proposed under partial-observation conditions and path-wise modelings. To test it, three synthetic networks and two real networks are selected, with series of experiments conducted to evaluate the influence of observation size and cascade number, as well as its robustness to noises. Experiment results verify that our method is able to achieve obviously better source identification accuracies than the previous studies.
An improved lane-changing rules for one-way two lane traffic with one work zone
Authors: Li Qi-Lang , Liu Jun , Jiang Rui , Wang Bing-Hong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, some new lane-changing rules for one-way two-lane traffic with one work zone are proposed. Considering their velocities difference between the vehicle in the current lane and some vehicle behind/ahead in the target lane, and its own velocity, driver will choose to change lanes if necessary. Unlike some previous studies, one-way two-lane with one work zone is divided into three sections: symmetrical zone, conversion zone and work zone. In the conversion zone, the maximum velocity of vehicles in merge lane depends on the number of unsuccessful lane-changing. Based on the refined Nagel–Schreckenberg model, all vehicles update their corresponding velocities and positions in own respective lanes, employing open boundary conditions. The computer results show that the system has two states: unsaturated state and saturated state. In the saturated state, these vehicles on these two lanes have the same occupancy, which change steadily without inflection point when approaching the conversion zone, especially for upstream of the work zone. As one of the results of vehicle self-organization, the system can reach the saturated state in a short period of time as the injection probability increases. This saturated state can also spread across the conversion zone to the symmetrical zone. In the unsaturated state, one also finds that the velocity distribution can be consistent with the actual traffic conditions for upstream of the work zone. We selected three road sections with work zone to carry out field test, and the flow of these three road sections is basically consistent with the flow of the saturated state for the present model.
EMPOWERING SMALL- AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES FOR A SUSTAINABLE GREEN RECOVERY: A CSR PERSPECTIVE
Authors: ZHOU BO , ZHANG XINGYUAN
Published: July 2024

This study examines the dynamics of sustainable economic growth in 15 developing Asian economies spanning from 2005 to 2020, utilizing the Cross-Sectional Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag technique. It highlights the significant role played by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in promoting green growth and emphasizes their crucial contribution to fostering environmentally conscious development. The findings indicate a positive relationship between SMEs’ numbers, revenues and green growth, underscoring their essential role in advancing environmental sustainability. The study also notes the limited impact of government-provided SME loans on green growth, suggesting a reassessment of loan programs. In contrast, the effects of Foreign Direct Investment absorption, electricity consumption and digital transformation on green growth vary, providing valuable policy insights. Particularly noteworthy is the significant influence of SMEs’ revenues, highlighting the importance of their financial success in promoting sustainable development. Recommendations include incentivizing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to strengthen SMEs’ commitment to sustainability and formulating policies that incorporate emerging technologies such as cryptocurrency to enhance environmental responsibility.
Quantum Software: The Brain of Quantum — Guest Editor’s Introduction
Authors: Exman Iaakov
Published: July 2024

Quantum Software, its engineering and its applications are becoming more and more indispensable components of the current knowledge baggage of researchers and industrial professionals. Given the continuous accelerating developments of Quantum Computing, and the vastness of available knowledge, one needs efficient methods to dedicate the limited available personal time to the correct choice of selective information. This Special Issue on “Quantum Computing and Software Engineering” offers a small, but diverse set of papers covering theoretical, practical software system design and a pragmatic survey of Quantum Software Engineering, being a map pointing to references of relevance, aiming to answer the issue of choice of selective information.
Complex pattern formation governed by a Cahn–Hilliard–Swift–Hohenberg system: Analysis and numerical simulations
Authors: Garcke Harald , Lam Kei Fong , Nürnberg Robert , Signori Andrea
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates a Cahn–Hilliard–Swift–Hohenberg system, focusing on a three-species chemical mixture subject to physical constraints on volume fractions. The resulting system leads to complex patterns involving a separation into phases as typical of the Cahn–Hilliard equation and small scale stripes and dots as seen in the Swift–Hohenberg equation. We introduce singular potentials of logarithmic type to enhance the model’s accuracy in adhering to essential physical constraints. The paper establishes the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions within this extended framework. The insights gained contribute to a deeper understanding of phase separation in complex systems, with potential applications in materials science and related fields. We introduce a stable finite element approximation based on an obstacle formulation. Subsequent numerical simulations demonstrate that the model allows for complex structures as seen in pigment patterns of animals and in porous polymeric materials.
Step-by-step solving virtual element schemes based on scalar auxiliary variable with relaxation for Allen–Cahn-type gradient flows
Authors: Chen Yanping , Gu Qiling , Huang Jian
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we consider integrating the scalar auxiliary variable time discretization with the virtual element method spatial discretization to obtain energy-stable schemes for Allen–Cahn-type gradient flow problems. In order to optimize CPU time during calculations, we propose two step-by-step solving SAV algorithms by introducing a novel auxiliary variable to replace the original one. Then, linear, decoupled, and unconditionally energy-stable numerical schemes are constructed. However, due to truncation errors, the auxiliary variable is not equivalent to the continuous case in the original definition. Therefore, we propose a novel relaxation technique to preserve the original energy dissipation rule. It not only retains all the advantages of the above algorithms but also improves accuracy and consistency. Finally, a series of numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of our method.
Distinguishing bounce and inflation via quantum signatures from cosmic microwave background
Authors: Mahesh Chandran S. , Shankaranarayanan S.
Published: July 2024

Cosmological inflation is a popular paradigm for understanding Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation (CMBR); however, it faces many conceptual challenges. An alternative mechanism to inflation for generating an almost scale-invariant spectrum of perturbations is a bouncing cosmology with an initial matter-dominated contraction phase, during which the modes corresponding to currently observed scales exited the Hubble radius. Bouncing cosmology avoids the initial singularity but has fine-tuning problems. Taking an agnostic view of the two early-universe paradigms, we propose a quantum measure — Dynamical Fidelity Susceptibility (DFS) of CMBR — that distinguishes the two scenarios. Taking two simple models with the same power-spectrum, we explicitly show that DFS behaves differently for the two scenarios. We discuss the possibility of using DFS as a distinguisher in the upcoming space missions.
Relativistic fluids interacting through gravitational decoupling in f(T,𝒯) theory
Authors: Yousaf Z. , Khokhar U. A. , Almutairi Bander , Khan A. S. , Bhatti M. Z.
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we will manifest how polytropic fluids produce effects on an alternate gravitational source, regardless of its features, for spherically symmetric and static spacetimes. For this purpose, we use [Formula: see text] modified gravity, which is characterized by the trace of an energy–momentum tensor as [Formula: see text] and torsion scalar [Formula: see text], Additionally, using the polytropic equation of state, we will speculate about the distribution of energy among fluids within an astrophysical object. We offer a thorough methodology for identifying generic relativistic polytropes accompanied by the minimal geometric decoupling technique. Ultimately, a few tangible attributes of polytropes along with perfect fluids are observed using the Tolman IV solution, including total pressure, energy interchange, and thermal characteristics.
The New Horizon of Financial Education
Authors: Lyu Joseph Jye-Cherng
Published: July 2024

As a banking practitioner and a university adjunct professor of finance, I would like to share my observations on five major trends in financial education under the headline The New Horizon of Financial Education. The trends include (1) ESG as an Essential Embodiment of Contemporary Responsible Finance; (2) Digital Transformation as a Long-Term Evolutionary Process of the Financial Sector; (3) Cross-sector Alliances Between Banking and NonBanking Firms; (4) Total Compliance Mechanism in Risk Management; and (5) The Increasing Importance of Regulatory Technology, RegTech.
A global lifting for finite-dimensional Lie algebras of complete vector fields
Authors: Biagi Stefano , Bonfiglioli Andrea
Published: July 2024

Motivated by the so-called Lifting and Approximation Theorem by Rothschild and Stein, we consider a set of vector fields [Formula: see text] on a manifold [Formula: see text], and we study the problem of obtaining a global lifting of the [Formula: see text]’s to a system of generators of the Lie algebra [Formula: see text] of a Lie group [Formula: see text]. By assuming that the Lie algebra [Formula: see text] generated by [Formula: see text] is finite-dimensional and all of the [Formula: see text]’s are complete vector fields, but without the assumption that they satisfy Hörmander’s rank condition, we reduce the lifting problem to a result of Palais on integrability. This proves that any [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-related to a left invariant vector field [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a smooth map resulting from a right action [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text]. Both the lifting map [Formula: see text] and the lifting vector fields [Formula: see text] are globally defined, and our result generalizes the global Lifting obtained by Folland in the special case of dilation-invariant vector fields. According to Palais’ Integrability, the map [Formula: see text] is obtained via the flow of suitable vector fields on [Formula: see text] and the image set of [Formula: see text], namely, [Formula: see text], is the Sussmann orbit of [Formula: see text] through [Formula: see text]. Examples are provided, showing that a germ of [Formula: see text], obtained through the integration of [Formula: see text] and depending only on the Baker–Campbell–Hausdorff formula, is often sufficient to get the global lifting without the need of abstract results.
Lateral Vibration Mitigation for Coupled High-Speed Rail Vehicle and Cable-Stayed Bridge System Subjected to Ground Motions
Authors: Chen Lingkun , Lu Zhichao , Chen Qizhi , Xu Zhiwei , Wang Jinqiu , Wu Teng
Published: July 2024

A semi-floating cable-stayed bridge can swing longitudinally to absorb seismic energy in an earthquake for the purpose of reducing structural response. However, the large transverse (lateral) seismic response of such large-span cable-stayed bridges must be controlled to avoid severe bridge damage and ensure train safety. This study investigates the dynamic response and associated damping mechanism of a coupled high-speed rail (HSR) vehicle and cable-stayed bridge system subjected to various ground motions. A comprehensive vehicle–track–bridge interaction system is first established. Then, the dynamics of a semi-floating cable-stayed bridge-HSR vehicle system equipped with magnetorheological bearings (MRBs) and fluid viscous dampers (FVDs) is examined with various inputs of near-fault (NF) pulse-type, NF non-pulse-type, and far-field (FF) ground motions. To effectively mitigate the bridge internal force response and enhance train running safety, the transverse and longitudinal FVDs need to be concurrently utilized along with MRBs. This research presents a novel mitigation approach for simultaneously reducing the transverse vibrations of cable-stayed bridge and the derailment risk of running train.
Bandgap Tuning Based on Multi-Stable Metamaterial with Multi-Step Deformation
Authors: Sheng Tianhao , Hou Xiuhui , Qi Liyuan , Xie Feng , Ding Bin , Zhang Kai , Deng Zichen
Published: July 2024

Mechanical metamaterials are highly versatile structures capable of achieving unconventional mechanical properties. Of particular interest are mechanical metamaterials with the ability to tune bandgaps, offering potential applications in vibration control tailored to specific requirements. In this study, a new type of metamaterial is introduced to exhibit a distinctive two-step deformation mode under compressive displacement. Through a combination of numerical simulation and experimental verification, the band structure and vibration characteristics of the novel metamaterial in different stable states are thoroughly examined under compressive displacement. The results demonstrate that, in comparison to the initial structure, the novel mechanical metamaterial effectively addresses the issue of a significant reduction in plateau stress relative to buckling stress following buckling in the second deformation stage. The novel structure showcases notable controllable deformation capabilities, yielding distinct band structures in various stable states, and facilitating bandgap tuning. Furthermore, the study explores the influence of geometrical parameters and stable state transitions on bandgap evolution, supported by frequency response analyses and experimental validation. This research offers a fresh perspective on the utilization of Multistable Multi-Step Deformation Metamaterial (MMDM) for energy absorption and vibration damping applications.
L2 decay for large perturbations of viscous shocks for multi-D Burgers equation
Authors: Kang Moon-Jin , Oh HyeonSeop
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we consider a planar viscous shock of moderate strength for a scalar viscous conservation law in multi-D. We consider a strictly convex flux, as a small perturbation of the Burgers flux, along the normal direction to the shock front. However, for the transversal directions, we do not have any restrictions on flux function. We first show the contraction property for any large perturbations in [Formula: see text] of the planar viscous shock. If the initial [Formula: see text]-perturbation is also in [Formula: see text], the large perturbation converges to zero in [Formula: see text] as time goes to infinity with [Formula: see text] decay rate. The contraction and decay estimates hold up to dynamical shift. For the results, we do not impose any smallness conditions on the initial value. This result extends the 1D case [M.-J. Kang and A. F. Vasseur, [Formula: see text]-contraction for shock waves of scalar viscous conservation laws, Ann. Inst. H. Poincaré C Anal. Non Linéaire 34 (2017) 139–156] by the first author and Vasseur to the multi-dimensional case.
Certain paracontact metrics satisfying gradient ϱ-Ricci–Bourguignon almost solitons
Authors: Dey Santu , Ali Akram
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we thoroughly study [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon almost soliton and gradient [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon almost soliton in the paracontact geometry, precisely, on [Formula: see text]-paracontact and para-Sasakian manifolds. Here, we prove that if the metric [Formula: see text] of the [Formula: see text]-paracontact manifold endows a [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon almost soliton with the nonzero potential vector field [Formula: see text] parallel to [Formula: see text], then the manifold is an Einstein with Einstein constant [Formula: see text]. Next, we show that if a para-Sasakian manifold represents a gradient [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon almost soliton, then the manifold is an Einstein with constant scalar curvature [Formula: see text]. We also discuss [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon almost soliton on [Formula: see text]-paracontact manifold.
Clairaut anti-invariant Riemannian maps with Kähler and Ricci soliton structures
Authors: Yadav Jyoti , Shanker Gauree
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper is to explore the Clairaut anti-invariant Riemannian maps from/to Kähler manifolds admitting Ricci solitons. We find the curvature relations and calculate the Ricci tensor under different conditions. We discuss the condition under which range space becomes [Formula: see text]-Ricci soliton. We obtain conditions for the range and kernel spaces of these maps to be Einstein. Next, we find the scalar curvature for range space. Further, we give the relation between Ricci curvature and Lie derivative under these maps. Moreover, we find the condition for a vertical potential vector field on target manifold to be conformal vector field on range space of these maps. Finally, we give non-trivial examples of such maps.