bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development, Integration, and Field Evaluation of a Dual‐Arm Ridge Cultivation Strawberry Autonomous Harvesting Robot
Authors: Xie Hehe , Zhang Dongxing , Yang Li , Cui Tao , He Xiantao , Zhang Kailiang , Zhang Zhijie
Published: November 2024

Strawberry harvesting is a labor‐intensive and time‐consuming task, and the shortage of labor resources and high production costs have made strawberry harvesting robots a focus of attention in both academia and industry. This paper presents a dual‐arm strawberry harvesting robot suitable for ridge cultivation in polytunnels. The coordinated operation of the robot's software and hardware systems enables it to automatically harvest strawberries along the ridge. To ensure the integrity of the fragile fruit, a nondestructive end‐effector was designed that can directly separate and grip the stem, avoiding contact with the fruit itself. Additionally, a method based on composite models was introduced to accurately determine the location and tilt direction of the picking points, to address the randomness in the growth direction of the stems. Furthermore, the modular five degrees‐of‐freedom robotic arm is better suited to the harvesting task requirements. Field evaluation results show that the robot achieves harvesting success rates between 98.4% and 57.4%, and destructive harvesting success rates vary between 98.4% and 75.0% across four scenarios of different complexities. Overall, the success rates for nondestructive and destructive harvesting reach 78.8% and 87.2%, respectively. The average harvesting cycle in the dual‐arm working mode is 4.5 s per berry. Through an in‐depth analysis of the results obtained, this paper also discusses the existing limitations and future research directions.
Collaborative Robotics: Application of Delphi Method
Authors: Salotti Jean‐Marc , Suhir Ephraim
Published: November 2024

In the domain of collaborative robotics, it is often needed to make complex multiparametric choices or assessments that combine heterogeneous criteria, such as task performance, reliability, safety, and ergonomics. The Delphi method, a process of arriving at group consensus by providing experts with rounds of questionnaires, as well as the group response before each subsequent round, can be applied to solve this type of problems. The following Delphi method efforts are addressed in our analysis with application to finding appropriate criteria and their relative weights for the evaluation of the teleoperation task of a robotic platform: (1) Contribution of experts; (2) estimates using student's distribution; and (3) decision making support using Fischer criterion. A consensus emerged among eight experts, who selected the criteria of duration, number of trajectory corrections, and feeling of the operator. Weights have been proposed for each criterion and statistical tools have been used to evaluate the consensus.
T-Cell-Related Skin Inflammatory Flareups with Th1 Polarity in a Patient with Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum
Authors: Rocour Samuel , Vinatier Emeline , Fassot Céline , Dauvé Jonathan , Toutain Agnès , Fronteau Sabrina , Monnier Marine , Preisser Laurence , Croué Anne , Le Saux Olivier , Morel Alain , Delneste Yves , Martin Ludovic
Published: November 2024

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a genetic disorder characterized by ectopic calcification of tissues rich in elastic fibres (OMIM 264800). To date, PXE is considered a metabolic disease linked to an imbalance between pro- and anti-calcifying factors. The occurrence of sporadic erythematous flareups of PXE skin lesions is a complaint that we heard about on several occasions at the French PXE reference centre. However, this rare clinical aspect had never been extensively studied. We have had the opportunity to investigate a 13-year-old patient experiencing an erythematous flareup of his PXE lesions. We conducted this work to identify what type of inflammation was implicated in his lesions. An incisional skin biopsy on a recent erythematous inguinal PXE lesion was performed and sent for histological and transcriptomic analyses. The findings were compared to a non-erythematous PXE-affected skin biopsy obtained from another young PXE patient. Histological examination revealed perivascular T-cell infiltrates with Th1 polarity and elevated expression of cytotoxicity markers in RNAseq and RT-qPCR analyses. There was no increase in Th17 or Th2 markers. Our findings support the previous evidence of a possible inflammatory component in the development of PXE. Whether Th1-dependent inflammation contributes to the pathology as an active process or is an aggravating factor requires further investigations.
Multifunctional Network‐Shaped Hydrogel Assemblies
Authors: Li Qingyun , Quan Xinyi , Xu Shaoyu , Hu Ziqing , Hu Rui , Li Guangfeng , Han Bin , Ji Xiaofan
Published: November 2024

The previously reported hydrogel assemblies carry bulky shapes, for which the unitary assembly form immensely restricted further applications. Yet there are abundant natural examples of network‐shaped assemblies constructed by animals, of which it is brought up inspirations for constructing hydrogel assemblies. Herein, the network‐shaped assemblies with diverse functions are reported. The precursor solutions are prepared by acrylamide, 4‐acryloylmorpholine, choline chloride, and photo‐initiators. By means of three dimension (3D) printing, the hydrogel networks are formed driven by hydrogen bonds, and then the prepared jagged hydrogel blocks are assembled into network‐shaped hydrogel assembly NSHA‐0 by weaving method. Benefitting from the modifiability of hydrogels, hydrogel assemblies with different properties and functions are prepared by incorporating different functional monomers including ion pair acryloyloxyethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride, and sodium p‐styrenesulfonate, N‐isopropylacrylamide, spiropyran derivative and tetra‐(4‐pyridylphenyl)ethylene. The incorporation of these monomers bestowed the assemblies self‐healing ability, thermo‐responsiveness, ultraviolet‐responsiveness as well as acid‐responsiveness respectively.
A Self‐Calibrating Fluorescent‐Photoacoustic Integrated Probe Enables Fast Visualizing Pancreatic Cancer and Imaging‐Guided Tumor Surgery
Authors: Hu Cong , Liu Hongwen , Zhang Zhipengjun , Li Lingyun , Mao Guo‐jiang , Cheng Wei , Zhou Lei
Published: November 2024

Pancreatic cancer is known for its high invasiveness and metastasis, making rapid visualization and precise treatment critical for improving patient outcomes. Current diagnostic tools lack abilities to provide rapid and accurate tumor localization, particularly for real‐time intraoperative guidance. To address this gap, the study has developed a novel Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)‐mediated dual‐ratiometric near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF)/photoacoustic (PA) bimodal probe, SiRho‐SHD‐NTR, specifically designed for the fast and accurate navigation of pancreatic tumor resection. The probe, due to its excellent binding affinity with nitroreductase (NTR), can rapidly reach response saturation. Cellular experiments demonstrate that the probe rapidly and efficiently penetrates cancer cells, enhancing the effectiveness of PA imaging for preliminary diagnosis and tumor localization, while also enabling the rapid visualization of pancreatic tumors through NIRF imaging. Leveraging the rapid response characteristics of the probe to NTR, the study achieves precise tumor imaging in orthotopic pancreatic cancer mice by spraying the probe, within ≈5 min. More importantly, the probe even allows for the fast visualization of metastatic tumors and fluorescence‐guided surgical resection. It is believed that SiRho‐SHD‐NTR will offer a promising method in the rapid visualization of pancreatic cancer and provide a powerful tool for imaging‐guided tumor surgery, targeting both primary and metastatic tumors.
Well‐Defined Block Copolymer Vitrimer Membranes
Authors: Górecki Radosław , Bhaumik Saibal , Qasem Eyad , Loiola Livia , Emwas Abdul‐Hamid , Ntetsikas Konstantinos , Hadjichristidis Nikos , Nunes Suzana P.
Published: November 2024

A well‐defined α,ω‐dialdehyde polyisoprene‐b‐polystyrene block copolymer, synthesized using anionic polymerization high‐vacuum techniques, is employed to prepare vitrimers with tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine as the cross‐linking agent. The vitrimer network, featuring dynamic imine cross‐links, results in robust, flexible, and solvent‐resistant films, which are applicable in thin film composite membranes. These vitrimer membranes, with molecular weight cut‐offs in the nanofiltration range, are successfully used for organic solvent separation and evaluated for gas separation. The cross‐linking density, controlled by the cross‐linker, affects the material's gas permeability and affinity for CO₂. The dynamic nature of the imine cross‐links enables the vitrimer's self‐healing ability, activated by heat treatment at temperatures as low as 50 °C. Additionally, the vitrimer membranes can be reprocessed through solvent dissolution in the presence of the excess cross‐linking agent.
Stability Study of Single‐Layer Spherical Shell Roof Under Nonuniformly Distributed Snow Load
Authors: Jianshuo Wang , Tinghao Meng , Zhihua Chen , Haonan Gao , Xiaoyu Guo , Hao Wang
Published: November 2024

After snowfall, the snow load distribution on building roofs is generally nonuniform, and most cases of large‐span structural collapse are related to nonuniform load. The existing regulations provide limited snow distribution coefficients for different roofs, and with the diversification of building forms, they can no longer meet the current calculation requirements for roof snow loads. This article conducts numerical simulations of wind‐induced snow drift on a spherical shell roof, which rise‐span ratio is 1/5. It is found that the friction velocity of the roof is distributed in a band shape and is higher in the windward direction, whereas the friction velocity on the leeward side is lower, which increases the possibility of snow accumulation. Based on this, a simplified snow load distribution model is proposed to improve the economic efficiency of the project. Based on the above research, the stability analysis of K6 single‐layer Kevitt mesh shell was carried out using ABAQUS finite element software. The results show that under uniformly distributed load conditions, the buckling modes of the structure are symmetrical, whereas under nonuniform snow load conditions, the first mode deforms more on the side with higher load, and the position of structural deformation is closer to the edge; when the snow cover range is the same, the larger the extreme snow load, the more unfavorable it is for structural stability; when the extreme snow load is the same, the smaller the snow coverage, the more unfavorable the initial defect is for structural stability.
Fluorinated‐polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (F‐POSS) functionalized sepiolite nanostructures for developing epoxy nanocomposites with tailored crosslinking, antifouling, and self‐cleaning properties
Authors: Uicich Julieta Fabienne , Penoff Marcela Elisabeth , Montemartini Pablo Ezequiel , Azat Seitkhan , Jouyandeh Maryam , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Vahabi Henri
Published: November 2024

Developing multifunctional epoxy composites with tailored properties supports energy systems, especially oil and gas industries. We report synthesis of 3D fluorinated‐polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (F‐POSS) nanoparticles (NPs) co‐condensed on the surface of 2D sepiolite (SEP) nanoclays, and dispersed it within an epoxy resin to facilitate curing kinetics of epoxy‐amine system. A catalytic effect was realized, supporting excellent cure index, according to the kinetic models employed. Friedman model suggested double values of activation energy for composites (54.32 KJ/mol for Epoxy/SEP and 50.73 KJ/mol for Epoxy/F‐POSS@SEP) compared to blank (reference) resin (26.12 KJ/mol). Nanostructure of F‐POSS@SEP observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, demonstrating co‐condensation of F‐POSS and SEP nanoclays. Nanotribology tests suggested higher surface properties. Hardness of epoxy was 0.373 GPa; when modified with 5 and 10 wt% of F‐POSS@SEP it resulted in 0.41 and 0.38 GPa, respectively. The reduced modulus was 4.53 GPa for epoxy, while 5.1 and 5.0 GPa for 5 and 10 wt% F‐POSS@SEP, respectively. The free surface of composites was studied by SEM and contact angle techniques. F‐POSS/SEP nanostructure populated at air‐free surface, as a consequence of natural migration of fluorine. Contact angle measurements were performed in dynamic tests, showing increased hydrophobicity of thermoset composites, where an outstanding antifouling behavior was correspondingly achieved. Sliding angles diminished from 19.1° for epoxy to 8.1° and 5.0° for 5 and 10 wt.% of F‐POSS@SEP, respectively. Accordingly, fouling of 5 and 10 wt.% F‐POSS@SEP modified composites was 42% lower than that for epoxy. Self‐cleaning resulted 18% and 16% higher for 5 and 10 wt.% F‐POSS@SEP nanocomposites, respectively, compared to epoxy. These results are promising to contribute high‐performance materials for the energy production sector.

Highlights

Developed fluorinated polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (F‐POSS)/sepiolite.

Detected catalytic effect of F‐POSS/sepiolite on epoxy‐amine cross‐linking kinetics.

Fouling decreased by 42%, whereas recovery increased 10‐fold by cleaning surface.

Self‐cleaning properties demonstrated by up to 74% reduction in water slip angle.

Potential use in pipelines to prevent paraffin deposits due to antifouling properties.
Gas check prevention during calendering of poly(vinyl chloride) films using poly(caprolactone)‐based additives
Authors: Alvarez Luis F. , Panchal Kushal , Leask Richard L. , Maric Milan , Nicell Jim A.
Published: November 2024

Gas checks on poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) calendered films are a common but not well understood surface quality defect that causes delays and resource wastage during the manufacturing of plastic sheets and films. Three modified poly(caprolactone) (PCL)‐based additives of differing molecular weights were used as a secondary plasticizer in PVC with the goal of preventing the formation of gas checks without modifying the calendering process conditions. To better understand gas check prevention processes, the effects of the PCL‐based additives on the thermal, mechanical, rheological, and chemical properties of PVC blends were assessed. A high molecular weight (2000 g/mol) PCL‐based additive was unable to prevent gas checks in PVC blends, unlike the lower molecular weight (540 g/mol and 900 g/mol) additives. Chemical and physicochemical properties affect the prevention or reduction of gas checks showing that the acid values and molecular weights of the PCL‐based additives are related to the number of gas checks. In contrast, physical properties, including rheological ones like complex viscosity or the storage and loss moduli that were previously hypothesized to be important factors in preventing gas check formation, were not significantly impacted by the addition of the secondary plasticizer. Furthermore, the acid value was observed to be related to the reduction in gas checks, likely due to the interaction of the dispersed functional acid groups with the entrapped air. Consequently, the effectiveness of the additive in eliminating gas checks declines as the acid value decreases.

Highlights

Low concentrations of PCL‐based additives prevent gas checks on PVC films.

They do not significantly affect the physical/mechanical properties of films.

Higher molecular weight additives are beneficial, but only below 2000 g/mol.

The effectiveness of PCL‐based additives increases with acid value.
Long‐term outcomes of active surveillance for low‐risk papillary thyroid carcinoma: Progression patterns and tumor calcification
Authors: Sugitani Iwao , Nagaoka Ryuta , Saitou Marie , Sen Masaomi , Kazusaka Hiroko , Matsui Mami , Abe Takeshi , Ito Ryo , Toda Kazuhisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Active surveillance (AS) for low‐risk papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is acknowledged as a valid management strategy. While older age is identified as a favorable factor for progression, long‐term evidence is scarce and lifelong monitoring has been deemed essential. This study investigated progression patterns and tumor calcification under long‐term AS and explored the possibility of ending follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

A total of 650 patients with low‐risk PTC who chose AS were enrolled. Progression was defined as either tumor enlargement (≥3 mm from initiation) or development of clinically apparent lymph node metastasis.

Results

The median observation period was 8 years; 45.2% were under surveillance for ≥10 years. Overall, 80 patients (12.3%) exhibited progression. Median age and observation period at the time of progression were 55 and 4 years, respectively. Only 2 patients showed progression after 15 years of follow‐up and 5 patients showed progression after reaching 80 years old. Among 71 patients experiencing tumor enlargement, surgery was performed immediately in 32 patients. The remaining 39 patients continued surveillance, but only 5 demonstrated ongoing enlargement thereafter. Of 40 surgeries due to progression, 36 were conducted within the first 10 years. The degree of calcification correlated with age and observation periods. No progression occurred after the development of rim calcification.

Conclusions

Progression during AS was extremely rare in older patients with long‐term surveillance and in tumors with rim calcification. It may be feasible to consider ending scheduled surveillance visits for these patients. Instances of progression halting after enlargement are not uncommon.
Host–Pathogen Interaction Databases: Tools for Rapid Understanding of Microbial Pathogenesis
Authors: Khan Abdul Arif , Wakchoure Pooja , Farooq Fozia , Shiddiky Muhammad J. A. , Jain Sudhir Kumar
Published: November 2024

Understanding of microbial pathogenesis has greatly revolutionized after conventional culture‐based techniques are replaced by molecular methods. This technological shift is generating huge host–pathogen interactions (HPIs) data. Moreover, computational predictions of biological interactions are also adding to HPI understanding. Recently, several dedicated databases are developed for exclusively cataloging HPIs. Present article covers about some available HPI databases, types, and evolution of this area, along with recent trends in the application of these databases for biological research. As per the recent understanding in microbial pathogenesis, HPIs are considered highly dynamic in nature with multiple outcomes, which goes beyond simple microbes–disease association. Therefore, careful cataloging of complete information about HPIs can open several avenues to understand microbial pathogenesis considering their multifaceted effects on host system. HPI databases are indispensable tools for understanding microbial pathogenesis, and this article provides comprehensive information about their uses in the field of microbial pathogenesis research.
Subtle signs of atrial cardiomyopathy and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction are associated with reduced cognitive function: results from the Hamburg City Health Study
Authors: Ohlrogge Amelie H. , Camen Stephan , Nagel Lina , Brederecke Jan , Jensen Märit , Stenmans Ewgenia , Engler Daniel , Schulte Christian , Albrecht Jan , Csengeri Dora , Kirchhof Paulus , Cheng Bastian , Petersen Marvin , Mayer Carola , Börschel Christin S. , Wenzel Jan-Per , Blankenberg Stefan , Kühn Simone , Thomalla Götz , Schnabel Renate B.
Published: November 2024

Background

Atrial fibrillation is associated with cognitive dysfunction. Atrial cardiomyopathy has been correlated with both entities. We aimed to characterize the association of echocardiographic parameters of atrial cardiomyopathy with cognitive function and cerebral changes.

Methods

Participants of the population-based Hamburg City Health Study underwent in-depth transthoracic echocardiography and cognitive function testing, the Animal Naming Test (ANT), the Trail Making Test A (TMT-A) and B (TMT-B), 10-word learning test and cerebral magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

After excluding individuals with stroke or depression, data from 7852 individuals were available. In multi-variable-adjusted regression analyses, the E/e’-ratio was associated with the level of impairment in the ANT (− 0.19 per one standard deviation [SD] increase, 95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.36–[− 0.01]) and the TMT-A (0.01 per one SD increase, 95% CI 0.003–0.020). Left atrial global peak strain was associated with positive performance in the TMT-A and B (-0.01 per one SD increase [95% CI − 0.02–(− 0.002)] and − 0.02 per one SD increase [95% CI − 0.03–(− 0.01)], respectively) and the immediate recall of the 10-word learning test (0.11 per one SD increase, 95% CI 0.02–0.20). The E/e’-ratio was positively associated with the total and periventricular white matter hyperintensity load in age- and sex-adjusted regression analyses though statistical significance was lost after multi-variable adjustment.

Conclusions

Subclinical echocardiographic signs of atrial cardiomyopathy and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction are associated with impaired performance in cognitive tests in the population. Our data provide evidence of the clinically important cardio-cerebral axis, relating cardiac dysfunction with cognitive performance.

Graphical abstract
Clinical evaluation of the PowerGlide Pro midline catheter– dwell time, complications and outcomes for various medications including prostaglandins
Authors: Souri Yaser , Hernandez Cancino Edgar Franklin , Kerndl Hagen , Hyhlik-Duerr Alexander , Gosslau Yvonne
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The PowerGlide Pro™ Midline Catheter is a peripheral venous access device with a length of 8–10 cm, allowing the tip to reach far into the venous system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dwell time of the catheter. Secondary endpoints included suitability for specific medications (e.g. prostaglandins) and assessment of complications.

Methods

Between January 2019 and November 2021, 50 patients were included in the study. Data on patient demographics, placement characteristics, complications and reasons for removal, were collected.

Results

Placement was technically successful in 92% (n = 46) of cases. In all cases, veins of the upper extremity were punctured (34 basilic veins, 7 brachial veins, 6 cephalic veins, and 3 median cubital veins). The average dwell time was 6.1 days (1–17 days). A significant difference between duration and medication administered could not be demonstrated.

Conclusions

The longer maximum dwell time compared to a standard peripheral venous catheter makes it particularly suitable for intravenous therapy for more than 7 days or patients who have poor peripheral vein status.
A head-mounted Tilted Reality Device for the treatment of pusher syndrome: a usability study in healthy young and older adults
Authors: Wöhrstein Sofia , Bressler Michael , Röhrig Lisa , Prahm Cosima , Karnath Hans-Otto
Published: November 2024

Pusher syndrome is a disorder of postural control after stroke. Patients show a mismatch in their perception of (almost preserved) visual and (pathologically tilted) postural verticality. In order to reduce this mismatch, we developed a novel head-mounted Tilted Reality Device (TRD). It presents patients visual footage of their actual surroundings but tilted to one side rather than upright. We investigated its usability and possible limitations in its use for the treatment of pusher patients in two samples of healthy participants with an average age of 26.4 years and 63.9 years respectively. Individuals from both age groups showed similar levels of tolerance to prolonged exposure to the tilted visual environment for an average of 40.4 min while walking around in the hospital. The TRD was found to be comfortable and not frustrating whilst wearing, but somewhat challenging in terms of technical handling, particularly for older participants. At the end of the maximally tolerated exposure time participants of both groups experienced some feelings of discomfort, like dizziness or increased stomach awareness, which disappeared rapidly after terminating TRD exposure. Our TRD appears to be a practical device especially for an older population, like pusher patients. While users must be aware of the possibility of side effects, these should be balanced against the benefits of future use for rehabilitation purposes.
Quantitative analysis of green investments in European automotive companies: a digital reporting analysis
Authors: Tóth Árpád , Suta Alex , Szauter Ferenc , Lukács Eszter
Published: November 2024

Automotive companies are a major driver of the economy due to their high production volumes and extensive supply networks. However, the shift towards focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects to comply with regulatory constraints and meet shareholder expectations presents significant challenges. This study addresses the need for transparency in green investments and their impact on CO2 emissions within the automotive sector. To achieve this, a sample of 22 listed European automotive companies were selected based on their digital financial reports (XBRL), as well as their annual sustainability reports. Key variables, including Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions, were evaluated alongside three categories of corporate investments: tangible, intangible, and other long-term assets. A robust Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) model was employed to quantify the relationship between these investment activities and emissions. The results indicate a significant interaction effect on Scope 1 emissions, while the effects on Scope 2 emissions were not significant and Scope 3 emissions showed marginal results. These findings suggest that companies disclose green investments to mitigate reputational risks, offering insights into the relationship between financial and sustainability metrics in ESG reporting, while highlighting the importance of transparent reporting for achieving sustainability goals and enhancing comparability among companies.

Graphical abstract
Optimizing urban bike-sharing systems: a stochastic mathematical model for infrastructure planning
Authors: Ahmadi Seyedeh Asra , Ghasemi Peiman , Ehmke Jan Fabian
Published: November 2024

This paper addresses the optimization of resource allocation and infrastructure planning in bike-sharing systems, particularly inspired by dynamic demand patterns as observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We introduce a stochastic mathematical model that considers varying demand scenarios to enhance system performance and resource utilization. The research objectives are to fulfill the total travel demand across scenarios and compute the network's capacity to satisfy demand, thereby enhancing the system's efficiency and meeting users' diverse travel needs. The main contributions of this paper include presenting a stochastic mathematical model for bike-sharing station allocation and path network design, which optimizes resource allocation and infrastructure planning. Through a case study on the Vienna bike-sharing system, the model demonstrates practical applicability and effectiveness, offering insights for improving efficiency and service quality. The sensitivity analysis reveals that as costs for bicycle docks and station building increase, fulfilled demand decreases, emphasizing the crucial role of cost management in meeting demand efficiently.
ETTrack: enhanced temporal motion predictor for multi-object tracking
Authors: Han Xudong , Oishi Nobuyuki , Tian Yueying , Ucurum Elif , Young Rupert , Chatwin Chris , Birch Philip
Published: November 2024

Many Multi-Object Tracking (MOT) approaches exploit motion information to associate all the detected objects across frames. However, traditional tracking-by-detection (TBD) methods, relying on the Kalman Filter, often work well in linear motion scenarios but struggle to accurately predict the locations of objects undergoing complex and non-linear movements. To overcome these limitations, we propose ETTrack, a novel motion prediction method with an enhanced temporal motion predictor. Specifically, the motion predictor integrates a transformer model and a Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN) to capture both long-term and short-term motion patterns, and it predicts the future motion of individual objects based on the historical motion information. Additionally, we propose a novel Momentum Correction Loss function that provides additional information regarding the motion direction of objects during training. This allows the motion predictor to rapidly adapt to sudden motion variations and more accurately predict future motion. Our experimental results demonstrate that ETTrack achieves a competitive performance compared with state-of-the-art trackers on DanceTrack and SportsMOT, scoring 56.4$$\%$$
%
and 74.4$$\%$$
%
in HOTA metrics, respectively. Our work provides a robust solution for MOT in complex dynamic environments, which enhances the non-linear motion prediction capabilities of tracking algorithms.
The Effects of Parliamentary Debate as a Pedagogy for Argumentation in L1 and L2 Contexts
Authors: Jodoi Kota
Published: November 2024

Debates have long been an effective educational method in various fields, including argumentation education. In debates in which participants are divided into affirmative and negative sides, engagement in argumentation is heightened. Numerous studies have attempted to demonstrate this, but the question of whether participation in debates leads to increased argumentativeness, or whether individuals who engage in debates inherently have a higher orientation towards argumentation, remains unresolved. In the present study, debates were conducted for 15 weeks, and argumentativeness was measured using pre-and post-tests. The results confirmed that debate participation increases argumentativeness. Furthermore, while previous research has mostly focused on argumentativeness in the first language, the present study deepens the relationship between argumentativeness in both first and second languages. Specifically, focusing on Japan, where the first language (Japanese) is high-context and the second language (English) is low-context, this research clarifies the relationship between argumentativeness in the first and second languages, as well as the impact of debate.
How do attached crown parts and branches contribute to the diversity of saproxylic fungi and beetles in downed and decaying spruce trees?
Authors: Korhonen Aku , Siitonen Juha , Hamberg Leena
Published: November 2024

A significant proportion of forest-dwelling species in boreal forests are saproxylic, i.e., dependent on deadwood. To safeguard deadwood-associated diversity in managed forest landscapes, it is important to understand how substrate preferences and specialization structure saproxylic species communities across different deadwood resource types. In this study, we investigated the diversity and associations of saproxylic fungi and beetles at the scale of entire trees to understand how different tree parts contribute to species diversity. To do this, we sampled species assemblages in trunks (d > 15 cm), tops (d 5–10 cm) and branches (d < 5 cm) of 31 fallen Norway spruce trees. Fungal assemblages were investigated with DNA metabarcoding from wood samples, and beetles were surveyed by bark peeling and sieving. Our results showed that, fungal and beetle assemblages were clearly differentiated between trunks and branches. In the tops, fungal community composition was intermediate between trunks and branches, whereas beetle species composition was more closely aligned with trunks. Trunks and branches both harbored specialized fungal and beetle species, but no species were identified as specialists of tops. Fungal and beetle richness were lowest in branches, and fungal richness peaked in tops. Substrate specialization of saproxylic species at the scale of individual trees imply that deadwood restoration in managed forests should prioritize whole-tree retention instead of partial retention such as artificial high stumps or pruned logs.
A discrete fracture matrix framework for simulating single-phase flow and non-isothermal reactive transport
Authors: Banshoya Shin Irgens , Berre Inga , Keilegavlen Eirik
Published: November 2024

Simulating reactive transport in fractured porous media is computationally demanding since it requires solving physical and chemical processes that non-linearly affect each other. At the same time, the processes strongly depend on the presence of fractures. Fractures typically behave as shortcuts for flow and transport, while chemical reactions can trigger mineral dissolution or precipitation that might alter the fracture conductivity, thereby modifying the flow regime. The computational demands increase with the number of chemical species, subject to chemical equilibrium and kinetics, and with the complexity of fracture networks. In the case of reservoir simulations, where there are a considerable number of chemical species and fracture networks are highly complex, the computational requirements are severe. In this paper, we present a simulation strategy that handles reactive transport processes with numerous chemical reactions and their two-way interaction with fractures. The governing processes are modelled by conservation equations, joint with ordinary differential equations and non-linear algebraic equations. The fractures are explicitly represented and treated as lower-dimensional objects. We propose a sequential fully implicit procedure to solve the model equations, where the flow and transport equations are solved in a global sense using the open-source code PorePy and the chemical equations are solved using the open-source code Reaktoro. The implementation is established by comparing our simulation results to those from a previously presented study. Moreover, we also show that the presented simulation strategy can handle the coupled processes in porous media with numerous chemical species and intersecting fractures.
Modulating the Value of Positive Feedback Does Not Influence Expectation Change in Major depression – What Can be Learned from a Failed Replication?
Authors: Houben Mimi , Rief Winfried , Gärtner Thomas , Kube Tobias
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression is related to a reduced update of negative expectations in response to positive information. Here, we aimed to replicate that cognitive immunization (a cognitive devaluation of expectation-disconfirming information) modulates expectation updating in depression. Further, we examined how other cognitive factors (i.e., memory, interpretation) relate to cognitive immunization.

Method

We examined 139 inpatients (18–75 years) diagnosed with major depression. Participants completed a false-feedback task, in which they received unexpectedly positive standardized feedback. Cognitive immunization was manipulated via text that framed the feedback as particularly valid vs. invalid, relative to a distraction-control group and a no-instruction control group.

Results

There were no significant group differences in expectation updating. One interpretation questions the effect of the manipulation of cognitive immunization, which was not successful according to the manipulation check. The experimental conditions did not differ in their memory or interpretation of the feedback. However, negative interpretations were associated with elevated cognitive immunization.

Conclusions

Our study failed to replicate that cognitive immunization modulates expectation updating in depression - most likely due to the failure of the cognitive immunization manipulation. Future research may need to use a stronger and easier to understand manipulation (e.g., video instead of text; simpler wording) to modulate cognitive immunization successfully.
Potential Effect of Etoricoxib in Reducing Inflammation in Methotrexate-Induced Pulmonary Injury in Rats: Role of Oxidative Stress and the TLR4/p38-MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Abdelall Ali M. Ali , Khames Ali , Bekhit Amany Abdlrehim , Fathy Moustafa
Published: November 2024

Numerous chemotherapeutic medications can have hazardous effects on the lungs, which can result in severe lung diseases. Methotrexate (MTX) is prescribed for cancer and inflammation-related disorders; nevertheless, it is exceptionally highly toxic and has multiple kinds of adverse reactions, including pulmonary injury. Our work was designed to demonstrate the ability of etoricoxib (ETO) to mitigate MTX-induced lung injury in experimental animals. Adult male Wistar rats were separated into four groups. The first group consisted of healthy controls that received carboxymethyl cellulose (1 ml/day, p.o.), the second group received a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg/day, i.p.), the third group received ETO (10 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for three weeks, and the fourth group first received a single MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p.) and then was treated with ETO for three weeks. Concomitant treatment with ETO and MTX improved the histological structure of the lung tissue. It significantly altered the levels of oxidant/antioxidant markers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), in favor of antioxidants. Moreover, ETO can normalize the proinflammatory cascade, which includes tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). At the molecular level, ETO downregulated the protein expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) in inflamed rat lungs. In conclusion, our findings indicate that oral administration of ETO ameliorates MTX-induced lung injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and suppressing the TLR4/NF-κB and TLR4/p38-MAPK inflammatory signaling pathways.
An overview on pharmaceutical applications of phosphodiesterase enzyme 5 (PDE5) inhibitors
Authors: Nemr Mohamed T. M. , Abdelaziz Mostafa A. , Teleb Mohamed , Elmasry Ahmed E. , Elshaier Yaseen A. A. M.
Published: November 2024

Phosphodiesterase enzyme 5 (PDE5) inhibitors have emerged as one of the leading molecules for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). PDE5 inhibitors are categorized structurally into several classes. PDE5 inhibitors have been a multidisciplinary endeavor that attracts the attention of researchers because of their multiple pharmaceutical applications. Beyond their action on ED, PDE5 inhibitors are widely used in treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), Eisenmenger’s syndrome, Raynaud’s Disease, Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), Mountain sickness, Bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC), pulmonary arterial hypertension and type II diabetes (insulin resistance). In addition, PDE5 inhibitors also show promising antiproliferative activity, anti-Alzheimer and COX-1/COX-2 inhibitory activity (anti-inflammatory). Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacogenetics and toxicity of PDE5 inhibitors were finally explored. The diverse therapeutic applications, the high feasibility of structural modification and the appropriate pharmacokinetic properties of PDE5 inhibitors have motivated researchers to develop new scaffolds that have been either under clinical trials or approved by FDA and utilize them to overcome some recent global concerns, such as COVID-19.
In silico screening of phytochemicals against chromatin modifier, SETD7 for remodeling of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in renal cancer
Authors: Gadewal Nikhil , Patidar Diya , Natu Abhiram , Gupta Sanjay , Bastikar Virupaksha
Published: November 2024

The tumor microenvironment and immune evasion function in a complex cellular network profoundly challenge the clinical outcome of promising therapies. Our recently published study reported that the subset of genes upregulated in ccRCC due to H3K4me1 and DNA demethylation potentially leads to an immunosuppressive environment. Thus, modulating H3K4me1 chromatin modifier SETD7 with a natural inhibitor in combination with immunotherapy might improve the immune landscape for a better therapeutic outcome. The present study was conducted via virtual screening and MD simulation using compounds from the literature, IMPPAT, and SuperNatural database. The phytochemical IMPHY002979 showed better binding affinity and lower energy than the reported R-PFI-2 and cyproheptadine inhibitors. The phytochemicals interact with the SET domain through H-bonding, as confirmed by MD simulation and molecular interaction analysis. Further, the compound was assessed using ADME parameters and free energy estimation, showing better pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, the non-accessibility of the histone methyltransferase activity domain of SET7 with IMPHY002979 can downregulate H3K4me1 and, thereby, the expression of genes potentially responsible for immunosuppressive TME. Thus, patient stratification based on molecular markers for immunotherapy and combining epigenetic modulators with therapeutic drugs will improve the efficacy of immunotherapy in ccRCC.
Coronal Magnetic-Field Configuration Associated with Pseudostreamer and Slow Solar Wind
Authors: Tokumaru Munetoshi , Fujiki Ken’ichi
Published: November 2024

The global distribution of the solar wind speed $V$
V
is closely related to the configuration of the coronal magnetic-field, and the expansion factor $f$
f
of the flux tube is known as a parameter for determining $V$
V
. However, the inverse relation between $f$
f
and $V$
V
does not hold for pseudostreamers, which separate open-field regions with the same polarity. In the present study, we examined the magnetic-field configuration of pseudostreamers using the potential field (PF) model analysis of magnetograph observations for six Carrington rotations (CRs) in Cycle 23 and compared it with $V$
V
data derived from interplanetary scintillation observations. We calculated the parameter $S$
S
, which represents the relative angular distance of foot points on the photosphere magnetically connected to adjacent pixels on the source surface and $f$
f
from PF model analysis and discriminated areas of helmet and pseudostreamers on the source surface by selecting large values of $S$
S
. Although the overall correlation between $S$
S
and $V$
V
was very poor, helmet and pseudostreamers with large $S$
S
values were exclusively associated with slow $V$
V
. Furthermore, helmet and pseudostreamers were associated with large and small values of $f$
f
, respectively. This suggests that $S$
S
enables a better discrimination of slow-wind sources associated with pseudostreamers than $f$
f
. We calculated the distance from the streamer boundary (DSTB) on the source surface using data of helmet and pseudostreamers to compare with $V$
V
data. Calculated DSTB data exhibited significant correlations with $V$
V
data except for the solar maximum period. The average of correlation coefficients between DSTB and $V$
V
over five CRs excluding one at the solar maximum were 0.69, higher than that between the distance from the coronal hole boundary (DCHB) and $V$
V
. This suggests that DSTB acts as a better parameter for determining $V$
V
than DCHB. We demonstrated that $f$
f
for pseudostreamers tended to reach a maximum at a height lower than the source surface (2.5 $R_{\odot }$

R
⊙

). This provides important insight into the formation process of the slow solar wind in pseudostreamers.
Shannon Entropy Characterization of High-Entropy Thin Films Synthesized by Pulsed Magnetron Sputtering: The Influence of Modulation Frequency
Authors: Strzelecki G. W. , Nowakowska-Langier K. , Namyślak K. , Mulewska K. , Wilczopolska M. , Minikayev R. , Nadolski M. , Okrasa S. , Romaniuk S. , Zdunek K.
Published: November 2024

This manuscript presents a comprehensive study of the synthesis of high-entropy TiCrFeCoNi alloy (HEA) thin films via pulsed magnetron sputtering (PMS).The research investigates the impact of various modulation frequencies on the material properties of the synthesized films. By employing Shannon entropy as a novel method to characterize the complexity and homogeneity of high-entropy thin films, we offer new insights into the synthesis process under various thermodynamic conditions. The initial characterization of the alloy, using calculated parameters such as mixing entropy, enthalpy of mixing, and others, sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the alloy's formation and stability. The experimental methodology encompasses target synthesis, sputtering system setup, sample synthesis, and comprehensive process and sample characterization, including EDS analysis, surface and cross-sectional analyses using SEM, and mechanical property assessments via nanoindentation. Results indicate that modulation frequency significantly influences the plasma discharge process, and consequently, the composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the HEA films. EDS analysis confirms the successful synthesis of the target alloy composition, and surface and cross-sectional analyses reveal the effects of modulation frequency on film morphology and structure. Mechanical property measurements highlight the variations in hardness and Young’s modulus among the synthesized films. The study elucidates the role of PMS parameters, especially modulation frequency, in controlling the synthesis of high-entropy thin films, paving the way for optimizing film properties for advanced material applications.

Graphical Abstract
Intramural Ventricular Arrhythmias: How to Crack a Hard Nut
Authors: Hanson Matthew , Enriquez Andres , Garcia Fermin
Published: November 2024

Purpose of the Review

Successful catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias depends on identifying the critical tissues that sustain the arrhythmia. Increasingly, the intramural space is being recognized as an important source of idiopathic and reentrant ventricular arrhythmias, representing a common cause of ablation failure. A systematic approach to mapping and ablating these arrhythmias is key to optimize outcomes.

Recent Findings

Intramural ventricular arrhythmias are common in certain anatomical locations such as the left ventricular ostium or the interventricular septum. In these cases, mapping of the septal coronary veins provides an opportunity to explore the intramural compartment of the septum to perform activation mapping, entrainment and/or pace mapping. When an intramural arrhythmia is identified, ablation may require radiofrequency application from multiple sites, prolonged lesions, or special ablation techniques such as bipolar ablation or transvenous ethanol injection.

Identification of intramural ventricular arrhythmias depends on comprehensive mapping that should include the coronary venous system, and ablation often requires advanced techniques. This paper provides a guide on when to suspect an intramural ventricular arrhythmia in the electrophysiology laboratory and how to approach mapping and ablation in these challenging cases.
Examining the effect of a child tax on fertility in a two-sector model
Authors: Kaneko Akihiko
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we examine the efficacy of the child tax policy on the endogenous fertility rate in a two-sector model. We naturally assume that the investment goods sector is more capital intensive than the consumption goods sector. The endogenous fertility rate is determined by the cost of child-rearing and wage income. We find that the child tax has three effects (one direct effect and two indirect effects) on fertility. As a direct effect, the child tax increases the cost of child-rearing. The two indirect effects work in opposite directions: one raises the wage rate and the other lowers it. The total indirect effect of the child tax on wages is ambiguous, which is unique to the two-sector model. Additionally, the total effect of the child tax policy is analytically ambiguous, as in a one-sector model; however, our numerical example shows that the child tax is likely to reduce the fertility rate, unlike in the case of a one-sector model.