bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cross-sectional study of the association between physical activity and depressive symptoms among adolescents in southwest China stratified by parental absence: the mediating role of insomnia and the moderating role of resilience
Authors: Zhang Ming , Jiang Jianjun , Peng Wei , Yang Ruixi , Liu Qijiao , Li Shiying , Li Yuchen , Liu Qiaolan
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study explored the mechanisms by which physical activity was associated with depressive symptoms in multi-ethnic (Han, Yi and Tibetan) adolescents in southwest China. The mediating role of insomnia in the association of physical activity with depressive symptoms, the moderating role of resilience in this mediation model and the moderating role of parental absence in the moderated mediation model were also examined.

Design

A cross-sectional survey.

Setting

In southwest China (Sichuan Province and Tibet Autonomous Region).

Participants

3195 adolescents from a school-based survey conducted between April and October 2020.

Methods

There were 3143 valid samples in this study (47.2% males with mean age=12.88±1.68 years). Structural equation models were developed to estimate the direct and mediating effect, and the moderating effect. Multigroup comparison was performed to examine the differences and similarities of the moderated mediation model across three parental absence subgroups: (1) both parents present, (2) one parent absent and (3) both parents absent.

Results

As hypothesised, physical activity was significantly and positively associated with the reduction of depressive symptoms in adolescents. Insomnia partially mediated the effect of physical activity on depressive symptoms. In addition, resilience moderated the direct and indirect effects of physical activity (through insomnia) on depressive symptoms. Finally, the multigroup comparison indicated the moderating effect of parental absence on the moderated mediation model.

Conclusions

Physical activity was associated with alleviating insomnia symptoms among adolescents, thus correlating with the improvement of their depressive symptoms. Resilience was associated with enhancing the beneficial effects of physical activity, further improving depressive symptoms among adolescents, especially those with both absent parents. It is evident that physical activity interventions should be further incorporated into public health programmes to foster the physical and mental health of left-behind adolescents in southwest China.
Investigating combined acupuncture and transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with poststroke shoulder pain from China: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chen Jincheng , Lin Zhigang , Chen Shuijin , He Jian , Liu Weilin , Liu Zhizhen , He Youze , Rao Ting , Yang Yihan , Lin Rong , Cheng Jing , Jiang Yijing , Yang Shanli
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Poststroke shoulder pain is a common complication that severely affects the recovery of upper limb motor function. Acupuncture has positive analgesic effects in treating poststroke shoulder pain, and studies have demonstrated the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in treating patients with this pain. However, whether acupuncture combined with tDCS has a superior rehabilitation effect on poststroke shoulder pain is currently unknown. We aimed to observe the effect of the combined intervention on poststroke shoulder pain and explore its possible central analgesic mechanism.

Methods and analysis

This study describes a randomised controlled trial using assessor blinding. A total of 135 poststroke patients with shoulder pain will be randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to the tDCS group, acupuncture group and combined group (acupuncture plus tDCS). All three groups will undergo conventional rehabilitation treatment. Participants in the tDCS group will receive tDCS stimulation on the M1 area for 20 min, while the acupuncture group will receive 20 min of acupuncture. The combined treatment group will receive both. All treatments will be performed five times per week for 4 weeks. The primary outcome indicator in this study is the Visual Analogue Scale pain score. Secondary outcome indicators include shoulder mobility, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, Fugl–Meyer Motor Function Scale, Modified Barthel Index Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety and Depression Scale and functional MRI. All scale results will be assessed at baseline and at 2 weeks and 4 weeks, and during follow-up at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months postdischarge. A repeated analysis of variance will be conducted to observe the group×time interaction effects of the combined intervention. Moreover, functional MRI will be applied to explore the central analgesic mechanism.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2023KY-039–001). The results of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300078270.
Exploring how starting work during COVID-19 impacted post-foundation career decisions of new doctors: a mixed methods study
Authors: Harvey Bluemel Anna , Brown Megan E L , Vance Gillian , Fu Yu , Price Christopher , Burford Bryan
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study addressed two research questions: What factors do doctors in training describe as influencing their choices to apply (or not apply) for specialty training during their Foundation Year 2? Which of these factors are specific to the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the unique experiences of the cohort of doctors who qualified early during the pandemic?

Design

Sequential explanatory mixed methods study: Quantitative survey. Qualitative semistructured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed with logistic regression. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Setting

UK-wide.

Participants

Junior doctors who graduated medical school in 2020. Survey: 320 participants (22% of those contacted). 68% (n=219) were female, 60% (n=192) under 25 and 35% (n=112) 25–30. 72% (n=230) were white, 18% (n=58) Asian and 3% (n=10) black. Interviews: 20 participants, 10 had applied for specialty training, 10 had not.

Results

A minority of respondents had applied for specialty training to start in 2022 (114, 36%). While burnout varied, with 15% indicating high burnout, this was not associated with the decision to apply. This decision was predicted by having taken time off due to work-related stress. Those who had not taken time off were 2.4 times more likely to have applied for specialty training (OR=2.43, 95% CI 1.20 to 5.34). Interviews found reasons for not applying included wanting to ‘step off the treadmill’ of training; perceptions of training pathways as inflexible, impacting well-being; and disillusionment with the community and vocation of healthcare, based, in part, on their experiences working through COVID-19.

Conclusions

Participants infrequently cited factors specific to the pandemic had impacted their decision-making but spoke more broadly about challenges associated with increasing pressure on the health service and an eroded sense of vocation and community.
PRECIOUS study (PREterm Caesarean/vaginal birth and IVH/OUtcomeS): does mode of birth reduce the risk of death or brain injury in very preterm babies? A cohort and emulated target trial protocol
Authors: Odd David , Reeve Nicola F , Barnett Jane , Cutter Judith , Daniel Rhian , Gale Chris , Siasakos Dimitris
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Very preterm babies are at risk of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes and death. Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) after birth is the most prevalent cause of this. Birth by caesarean section may protect against IVH in very preterm babies, but the evidence is limited. The aim is to identify and obtain the quantitative evidence needed to inform a future definitive clinical trial to determine the optimal mode of delivery in preterm birth.

Methods and analysis

We will use three broad workstreams (WS) to answer complementary questions. WSs 1 and 2 involve the analysis of routinely recorded national clinical data held in an established research database. In WS1 (October 2023–March 2024), we will use conventional methods to identify what is needed to undertake a trial: the population of interest, areas of equipoise and a plausible range of effect sizes. In WS2 (April 2024–October 2024), using an emulated target trial framework, we will attempt to make inferences about the treatment effect from such a future trial and will identify potential challenges in recruitment and estimate likely ‘intention-to-treat’ versus ‘per-protocol’ profiles; these analyses will also be useful for power calculations for future possible trials. In WS3 (October 2024–March 2025), we will convene a consensus meeting with key stakeholders, supported by a clinical trials unit, to develop a multicentre clinical trial to identify the optimal mode of birth for preterm deliveries.

Ethics and dissemination

In this study, we will use deidentified data held in the National Neonatal Research Database (NNRD), an established national population database; parents can opt out of their baby’s data being held in the NNRD. HRA/Health and Care Research Wales and National Health Service (NHS) study-specific Research Ethics Committee approval (London—Queen Square Research Ethics Committee) (Ref: 23/LO/0826) ethical approval has been obtained. Key outputs of the PRECIOUS (PREterm Caesarean/vaginal birth and IVH/OUutcomeS) study include the identification of the data, and accordingly of the multidisciplinary team required, to develop, gain funding and complete, a clinical trial to definitively identify the optimal mode of delivery for preterm infants and their mothers.
Acupuncture and Escitalopram for Treating Major Depression Clinical Study (AE-TMDCS): protocol for a factorial randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yang Kaiqi , Tiwari Sagun , Liu Dezhi , Xu Qinfeng , Qi Lili , Zhu Yue , Jiang Liling , Zouqin Huang , Wong John , Chen Jianhua , Han Zhenxiang
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD), the second leading cause of disability globally, is considered to be associated with a consequent deterioration in the quality of life and can lead to a major economic burden on medical service and suicide-related costs. Previous research has shown that acupuncture may be beneficial for treating MDD. However, there is a lack of rigorous evidence from previous studies comparing acupuncture with antidepressant medications. This study aims to assess the therapeutic potential of acupuncture in the management of depressive disorders.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre, randomised, participant-blind, sham-controlled, 2×2 factorial clinical trial, Acupuncture and Escitalopram for Treating Major Depression Clinical Study, aims to compare the efficacy of acupuncture versus escitalopram in treating depression. This study will be conducted at three hospitals in China, enrolling 260 patients with moderate-to-severe major depression, as defined by DSM-5 criteria and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17) Scores above 17. Participants will be randomly assigned in equal proportions to one of four groups (acupuncture/escitalopram, sham acupuncture/escitalopram, acupuncture/placebo and sham acupuncture/placebo) and undergo 30 sessions across 10 weeks. The primary outcome is change in HDRS-17 Score and secondary outcomes include BDI, Clinical Global Impression, Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 and Mini-Mental State Examination Scores, alongside potential biological markers.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study was granted by the Ethics Committees of the Seventh People’s Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2023-7th-HIRB-020), Shanghai Mental Health Centre (2022–86) and Shanghai Pudong New Area Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2023–003). Informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The study’s findings are intended for publication in a scholarly journal.

Trial registration

NCT05901571.
Neonatal and short-term outcome after late vertical transmission in congenital CMV-infected fetuses following primary first-trimester maternal seroconversion
Authors: De Keersmaecker Bart , Vanwinkel Sanne , Lagrou Katrien , Jansen Katrien , Naulaers Gunnar , De Catte Luc
Published: September 2024

Objective

To document the course of neonatal and short-term outcomes in pregnancies after first trimester CMV (cytomegalovirus) seroconversion and negative amniotic fluid (AF) CMV PCR.

Methods

We included 375 patients with a first-trimester CMV seroconversion and amniocentesis at ≥21 weeks. Termination of pregnancy (TOP) was offered in case antenatally severe CMV-related fetopathy was documented either by ultrasound or by MRI. AF CMV PCR-negative fetuses underwent a PCR CMV on neonatal urine (NU). Perinatal and short-term infant outcomes were investigated by a questionnaire, sent to parents.

Results

AF CMV PCR was positive in 118/375 cases (31.4%). TOP was performed in 46/118 (38.9%) and fetal demise occurred twice. Questionnaires were sent to 327 patients with an overall response rate of 77%. Three groups were considered: Group 1: the early infected group (AF CMV PCR positive; N=62), group 2: the late infected group (AF CMV PCR negative, NU CMV PCR positive; N=7) and group 3: the control group (AF+NU CMV PCR negative; N=160). Compared with group 3, group 1 was more frequently symptomatic at birth (6.2% vs 19.4%; p=0.006). In short-term follow-up, hearing impairment (23.5%; p<0.001), mild motor deficit - defined as abnormal early motor development or the need for physiotherapy in later life (21.6%; p=0.005) - and subnormal vision (15.7%; p=0.02) were significantly more frequent. Compared with group 3, group 2 showed more often jaundice (57.1%; p=0.04) and petechiae (28.6%; p=0.04) at birth, but other short-term symptoms were lacking.

Conclusion

Although neonates may screen positive on urine for CMV after an AF CMV negative PCR, they show rarely and only mild sequelae in early life.
Street-working children in Latin America: a critical perspective
Authors: Pinzón-Segura María Camila
Published: September 2024

This article critically explores the complex realities faced by street-working children (SWC) in Latin America, highlighting historical and structural inequalities—such as coloniality, heteropatriarchy, and neoliberal capitalism—that perpetuate their marginalisation. Hegemonic public policies tend to focus narrowly on control, normalisation, and short-term relief, often neglecting the deeper systemic issues that sustain these vulnerabilities. This study calls for a shift towards alternative frameworks of public policy analysis that permit addressing the socio-political and cultural specificities of Latin America from a decolonial perspective. By incorporating affective, semiotic, and material dimensions, the Affective Interstice Theory provides analytical tools to understand how policy discourses not only shape the emotional and material experiences of those involved but also reinforce existing power structures. These insights reveal critical opportunities for resistance and transformative change, urging the development of policies that do more than address immediate needs—policies that actively dismantle the structural dynamics underpinning the marginalisation of SWC. The article underscores the need for contextualised approaches that engage with the complexity of local realities, offering a path towards more equitable and just policy outcomes across the region.
Causal role of the gut microbiome in certain human diseases: a narrative review
Authors: Prosty Connor , Katergi Khaled , Papenburg Jesse , Lawandi Alexander , Lee Todd C , Shi Hao , Burnham Philip , Swem Lee , Routy Bertrand , Yansouni Cedric P , Cheng Matthew P
Published: September 2024

Composed of an elaborate ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa residing in the human digestive tract, the gut microbiome influences metabolism, immune modulation, bile acid homeostasis and host defence. Through observational and preclinical data, the gut microbiome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a spectrum of chronic diseases ranging from psychiatric to gastrointestinal in nature. Until recently, the lack of unequivocal evidence supporting a causal link between gut microbiome and human health outcomes incited controversy regarding its significance. However, recent randomised controlled trial (RCT) evidence in conditions, such as
Clostridioides difficile
infection, cancer immunotherapy and ulcerative colitis, has supported a causal relationship and has underscored the potential of the microbiome as a therapeutic target. This review delineates the RCT evidence substantiating the potential for a causal relationship between the gut microbiome and human health outcomes, the seminal observational evidence that preceded these RCTs and the remaining knowledge gaps.
Endosialin-positive CAFs promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression by suppressing CD8+T cell infiltration
Authors: Gan Lunbiao , Lu Tong , Lu Yu , Song Hongtao , Zhang Jiayu , Zhang Keying , Lu Shiqi , Wu Xinjie , Nie Fengze , Di Sijia , Han Donghui , Yang Fa , Qin Weijun , Wen Weihong
Published: September 2024

Background and aims

Endosialin, also known as tumor endothelial marker1 or CD248, is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is mainly expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous study has found that endosialin-positive CAFs could recruit and induce the M2 polarization of macrophages in HCC. However, whether they may regulate other types of immune cells to promoting HCC progression is not known.

Approach and results

The growth of both subcutaneous and orthotopic HCC tumors was significantly inhibited in endosialin knockout (ENKO) mice. Single-cell sequencing and flow cytometry analysis showed that tumor tissues from ENKOmice had increased CD8+T cell infiltration. Mixed HCC tumor with Hepa1-6 cells and endosialin knockdown fibroblasts also showed inhibited growth and increased CD8+T cell infiltration. Data from in vitro co-culture assay, chemokine array and antibody blocking assay, RNA-seq and validation experiments showed that endosialin inhibits the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT1 in CAFs. This inhibition leads to a decrease in CXCL9/10 expression and secretion, resulting in the suppression of CD8+T cell infiltration. High level of endosialin protein expression was correlated with low CD8+T infiltration in the tumor tissue of HCC patients. The combination therapy of endosialin antibody and PD-1 antibody showed synergistic antitumor effect compared with either antibody used individually.

Conclusions

Endosialin could inhibit CD8+T cell infiltration by inhibiting the expression and secretion of CXCL9/10 in CAFs, thus promote HCC progression. Combination therapy with endosialin antibody could increase the antitumor effect of PD-1 antibody in HCC, which may overcome the resistance to PD-1 blockade.
Modelling the impact of deterioration on the long-term performance of Dublin Tunnel
Authors: Wang Chao , Xiao Zhipeng , Friedman Miles , Li Zili
Published: September 2024

The influence of tunnel deteriorations like hydraulic and mechanical deterioration on its long-term performance has received extensive attention recently. Most studies considered deteriorations by manually varying the magnitude of parameters like permeability and stiffness, often neglecting their time-dependent variation process (individual/coupled). This paper addresses this gap by investigating the impact of time-dependent hydraulic and mechanical deteriorations on the long-term behaviour of the aging Dublin Port Tunnel (DPT). Relevant geotechnical and mechanical properties of ground layers and concrete lining were firstly characterised and determined. A modified analytical relative ground-lining permeability model and calculated deteriorated lining permeability for DPT were presented, with steps and procedures generalised. The deteriorated permeability of DPT was incorporated into the hydraulic deterioration model thereafter, together with tunnel mechanical deterioration, offering a more holistic and realistic prediction of DPT’s deterioration-induced long-term performance than previously available. Numerical results, compared against field measurements, showed that (1) assuming constant tunnel permeability during its lifetime fails to accurately capture time-dependent liner deformation, and hydraulic deterioration has been identified as the dominant factor inducing an approaching squatting deformation mode, which can be attributed to twin tunnel interaction effect; (2) continuous mechanical deterioration leads to a linear growth in both vertical and horizontal convergence over time, with vertical convergence being more pronounced, indicating a squatting contraction deformation mode that could be associated with reduced ability to support ground pressure and external loads; and (3) the comparison quantitatively evaluates the impact of individual and coupled hydro-mechanical deterioration on DPT’s long-term behaviour and the agreement between field data and numerical results confirms that coupled lining deterioration is the root cause behind the monitored lining deformation.
Petrochemical and geochronological constraints on the origin of the Sops Arm group, the most westerly Silurian volcano-sedimentary extensional basin on the western Newfoundland composite Laurentian margin
Authors: Sandeman H.A.I. , Honsberger I.W. , Peddle C. , Kamo S.L. , Dunning G.R.
Published: September 2024

The Sops Arm group of western Newfoundland, a sequence of subaerial to shallow marine mainly bimodal volcanic rocks and coarse- to fine-grained clastic sedimentary rocks, forms the only known Silurian overstep volcano-sedimentary basin in the Humber Zone of Newfoundland and the northern Appalachians. The group is divided into Western and Eastern sequences, separated by the Long Steady reverse fault, an arcuate, east-dipping, high-strain zone. Mafic volcanic rocks of both sequences are tholeiitic, transitional to calc-alkaline continental basalts derived from an enriched mid-ocean ridge basalt-like source contaminated by older Grenvillian lithosphere. Eastern sequence basalts are more primitive and exhibit less lithospheric contamination. Silicic volcanic rocks are dominantly ferroan, alkaline to strongly peralkaline, within-plate (A2-type) rhyolitic, upper crustal fractionates. Silicic rocks of the Western sequence are Telychian (ca. 434 Ma), whereas rhyolite from the Sops Island volcanic member of the Eastern sequence gave a new high-precision U–Pb zircon age of 429.39 ± 0.57 Ma (Homerian). Telychian and Homerian magmatism and associated sedimentation reflect episodic extension and/or transtension within an intracontinental basin of the eastern Humber Zone. Folding and imbrication of the group is constrained between ca. 401 Ma, the age of a deformed silicic dyke in the Eastern sequence and ca. 374 Ma, a muscovite cooling age from rocks in the Long Steady Fault. The Siluro-Devonian evolution of the group is consistent with widespread post-Salinic extension, far-field Acadian and Neoacadian deformation, and the emplacement of gold mineralization across the Dunnage Zone of Newfoundland.
Indicators of soil degradation on a pipeline footprint, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Whitson Ivan R.
Published: September 2024

Monitoring data are needed to assess the effectiveness of soil conservation measures applied on agricultural lands during pipeline construction. Soil data were collected on the footprint of a pipeline constructed in 2016–2017 in west-central Alberta. Construction practices were expected to mitigate for topsoil loss and admixture, compaction, and erosion. Sites were established on the footprint and on adjacent reference areas on 24 parcels. Field measurements included point-sample results for horizon thickness, bulk density and soil erosion-rate including suspended sediment in runoff, and laboratory measurements from composite samples including pH, total organic carbon and texture. Admixture rate was estimated from change in percentage clay. Topsoil thickness was more variable on the reclaimed footprint than references. Topsoil pH was about 0.4 units higher and percent clay was 6.2% higher on the footprint than references but total organic carbon was not different. Admixture rates in the topsoil at six parcels ranged from 0.18 to 0.60. Penetration resistance on four measured aggregate size classes of subsoil was significantly higher on the footprint than reference. Subsoil loss from rill erosion ranged from 0.1 to 8.1 cm in the first year after construction when little vegetation was present and sediment concentrations in runoff sometimes exceeded 10 g L−1. Mitigations applied to limit soil degradation were less effective than expected. The use of quantitative techniques to monitor soil reclamation outcomes will improve the credibility of results but add costs to the process. Similar monitoring is needed to determine the effectiveness of current reclamation practices.
Comparison of conventional methods with Haney H3A version 4 for available phosphorus and potassium in southern Manitoba soils
Authors: Crittenden Stephen , Molina Oscar , Sager Steve , Cavers Curtis , Xing Zisheng , St. Luce Mervin , Lawley Yvonne
Published: September 2024

The H3A-4 extraction is a new method to determine plant available nutrients but has not been compared with standard soil tests or calibrated to crop response in Manitoba, Canada. Olsen P and ammonium acetate K were related to H3A-4 P and K for 961 soil samples. Significant relations were found between Olsen P and H3A-4 ( R2 = 0.74, P < 0.01) and ammonium acetate K and H3A-4 ( R2 = 0.83, P < 0.01). New thresholds were established for fertilizer recommendations with H3A-4 as 24 mg kg–1 for P and 32 mg kg–1 for K.
Migratory behaviour of Ipswich Sparrows during spring
Authors: Bliss Sydney , Leonard Marty , Crysler Zoe , Taylor Phil
Published: September 2024

Optimal migration theory predicts birds will follow migration strategies that minimize time, energy, or predation risk, and these strategies employ specific and conflicting behaviours. Many behaviours driving songbird strategies are relatively well known, however gaps remain, especially for spring migration. Here, we describe the behaviours of a short-distance migrant, the Ipswich Sparrow ( Passerculus sandwichensis princeps Maynard, 1872), during spring migration. We determined the start and end dates of migration, migratory duration, travel speed, distance per night, and stopover location and duration. We also examined whether behaviours differed by sex and age. Sparrows migrated between March and June, and took an average of 29.1 days at a speed of 7.2 ± 9.4 m/s (SD) to fly ∼1574 km to their breeding grounds. Sparrows flew approximately 100 km/night and made stopovers of >7 days adjacent to ecological barriers. Males migrated before females, and behaviour did not differ with age. Overall, Ipswich Sparrows had a relatively slow travel speed and covered short distances each night consistent with efforts to minimize energy costs or predation risk. They had prolonged stopovers suggesting that they were also trying to minimize time. More work is required to determine which strategy sparrows may be using during spring migration.
Foundations of automatic feature extraction at LHC–point clouds and graphs
Authors: Bhardwaj Akanksha , Konar Partha , Ngairangbam Vishal
Published: September 2024

Deep learning algorithms will play a key role in the upcoming runs of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), helping bolster various fronts ranging from fast and accurate detector simulations to physics analysis probing possible deviations from the Standard Model. The game-changing feature of these new algorithms is the ability to extract relevant information from high-dimensional input spaces, often regarded as “replacing the expert” in designing physics-intuitive variables. While this may seem true at first glance, it is far from reality. Existing research shows that physics-inspired feature extractors have many advantages beyond improving the qualitative understanding of the extracted features. In this review, we systematically explore automatic feature extraction from a phenomenological viewpoint and the motivation for physics-inspired architectures. We also discuss how prior knowledge from physics results in the naturalness of the point cloud representation and discuss graph-based applications to LHC phenomenology.
ℛ2 effectively from inflation to dark energy
Authors: Brax Philippe , Vanhove Pierre
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we consider the single-parameter [Formula: see text] gravitational action and use constraints from astrophysics and the laboratory to derive a natural relation between the coefficient c and the value of the cosmological constant. We find that the renormalization of c from the energy of the inflationary phase to the infrared, where the acceleration of the expansion of the universe takes place, is correlated with the evolution of the vacuum energy. Our results suggest that the coefficient of the [Formula: see text] term may provide an unexpected bridge between high-energy physics and cosmological phenomena such as inflation and dark energy.
Double polarized deuteron–deuteron scattering and test of T-invariance
Authors: Uzikov Yuriy , Platonova Maria , Klimochkina Anna , Kornev Artem
Published: September 2024

A component of the total cross section of the deuteron-deuteron interaction connected with the vector polarized ([Formula: see text]) one initial deuteron and tensor polarized ([Formula: see text]) another one constitutes a null-test signal of the T-invariance violation but P-parity conservation. The energy dependence of this signal is calculated here at beam kinetic energies per nucleon of 0.1–1[Formula: see text]GeV within the Glauber spin-dependent theory of multiple scattering in the S-wave approximation for the deuteron wave function.
Validity analysis of γ-ray strength function models for radiative capture reactions of heavy nuclei
Authors: Sepiani M. , Nasrabadi M. N.
Published: September 2024

Accurate simulation of radiative capture reactions (RCRs) requires precise modeling of [Formula: see text]-ray strength functions (GSF). Various GSF models exist but need normalization based on experimental total radiative width (TRW) data. This study found that current normalization methods fail for neutron-induced RCRs in [Formula: see text]U and [Formula: see text]Th nuclei. In this regard, re-normalization values are proposed in order to improve model consistency at low energies. The standard Lorentzian (SLO) model fits experimental data best with minimal normalization.
COMPARISON OF FIXATION USING SCREWS AND SUTURE BUTTONS IN THE TREATMENT OF DISTAL TIBIOFIBULAR DIASTASIS ASSOCIATED WITH ANKLE FRACTURES
Authors: Kim Bum Soo , Shin Seungyup , Lee Ji-Won , Choi Gyeonggyu
Published: September 2024

Purpose: We aimed to compare the treatment results of fixation using screws and a suture button when treating distal tibiofibular joint diastasis combined with ankle fractures

Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 30 patients with ankle fractures who were treated with screws and 34 patients who were treated with suture buttons for distal tibiofibular joint diastasis. Postoperative clinical outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and radiologic outcomes were evaluated by measuring tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, and medial clear space on pre- and post-operative radiographs. The average length of hospital stay, whether surgery was performed to remove the internal fixation, the time of weight bearing, and whether the internal fixation was damaged were investigated.

Results: One year after surgery, the average AOFAS score showed no statistically significant difference between the screw surgery group and the suture button surgery group. The averages of tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, and medial clear space measured immediately postoperatively did not show statistically significant differences between the screw surgery group and the suture button surgery group, but the measurements taken 1 year after surgery were significantly different statistically. Screw removal surgery was performed in all cases in the screw surgery group. In the screw surgery group, there were 3 cases of screw breakage and 3 cases of surgical wound infection, and the length of hospitalization and the postoperative weight-bearing start time in the screw surgery group were longer.

Conclusion: When treating distal tibiofibular joint diastasis, the screw surgery group and the suture button surgery group showed no statistically significant difference in clinical outcomes measured by AOFAS 1 year after surgery, but the suture button surgery group had better results in radiological evaluation and in complication frequency.
Crossed modules, non-abelian extensions of associative conformal algebras and wells exact sequences
Authors: Hou Bo , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we introduce the notions of crossed modules of associative conformal algebras, two-term strongly homotopy associative conformal algebras, and discuss the relationship between them and the third Hochschild cohomology of associative conformal algebras. We classify the non-abelian extensions by introducing the non-abelian cohomology. We show that non-abelian extensions of an associative conformal algebra can be viewed as Maurer–Cartan elements of a suitable differential graded Lie algebra, and prove that there is a one-one correspondence between the Deligne groupoid of this differential graded Lie algebra and the non-abelian cohomology. For any two associative conformal algebras [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], we provide the condition that a pair of automorphisms in Aut(A) × Aut(B) can be extended to an automorphisms of the non-abelian extension algebra of [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text], and give the fundamental sequence of Wells in the context of associative conformal algebras.
A remark on the relative Lie algebroid connections and their moduli spaces
Authors: Manikandan S. , Singh Anoop
Published: September 2024

We investigate the relative lie algebroid connections on a holomorphic vector bundle over a family of compact complex manifolds (or smooth projective varieties over [Formula: see text]). We provide a sufficient condition for the existence of a relative Lie algebroid connection on a holomorphic vector bundle over a complex analytic family of compact complex manifolds. We show that the relative Lie algebroid Chern classes of a holomorphic vector bundle admitting relative Lie algebroid connection vanish, if each of the fibers of the complex analytic family is compact and Kähler. Moreover, we consider the moduli space of relative Lie algebroid connections and we show that there exists a natural relative compactification of this moduli space.
Optimizing Thermal Analysis and Heat Transfer in Mechanical Design Using an Advanced Hybrid WHO–MFDNN Method
Authors: Srinivasan D. R. , Gawade S. R. , Rajesh P. , Pund Sachin S.
Published: September 2024

Applications for heat exchangers are many and include power plants, air conditioning, chemical and chemical engineering, and other scientific fields. The cost of materials and energy has increased recently, placing pressure on heat exchangers to become even more efficient. In mechanical design, this work proposes a hybrid method for heat transfer optimization and thermal analysis. The proposed hybrid method is the joint execution of both the Wild Horse Optimizer (WHO) and Multi Fidelity Deep Neural Network (MFDNN). It is hence known as the WHO–MFDNN approach. This proposed technique’s goal is to minimize the system’s overall operating costs while optimizing the system’s efficacy. The MFDNN technique is used to forecast the system’s ideal solution, while the proposed WHO approach is employed to minimize the system’s overall operating costs. By then, the proposed approach has been implemented into the MATLAB working platform, and the existing technique is used to compute the execution. In every system now in use, like Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Wild Border Collie Optimization (BCO) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) the proposed approaches produce superior results. It concludes that the proposed method offers superior performance by achieving a cost of $40, converging in just 200 iterations, and requiring only 10 s of computational time, significantly outperforming existing methods with higher costs and longer convergence and computation times.
Numerical Solutions of Volterra Integral Equations with Subdivision-Based Collocation Approach
Authors: Iqbal Zainab , Ejaz Syeda Tehmina , Akgül Ali , Javaid Ureen
Published: September 2024

Integral equations play a vital role in the fields of applied and computational mathematics. This paper introduces a unique subdivision-based collocation technique for solving the initial value problems (IVPs) arising from Volterra integral equations (VIEs). A suitable subdivision scheme is employed to develop the numerical algorithm for solving the VIEs. Several numerical illustrations are tested and compared with the existing methods for assessing the efficiency of the proposed numerical algorithm and error estimation.
Analysis of Second-Order Linear Fuzzy Differential Equation Under an Innovative Fuzzy Derivative Approach and Its Application
Authors: Rangarajan K. , Singh Payal , Salahshour Soheil , Mondal Sankar Prasad
Published: September 2024

Fuzzy derivatives are a concept based on fuzzy calculus, which extends classical calculus to handle uncertainty and vagueness, habitually represented using fuzzy sets or fuzzy numbers. In fuzzy calculus, the derivative incorporates fuzziness, meaning both the input and output can have imprecise or uncertain values. In this paper, the step size is also considered as a fuzzy number. The impact of fuzziness in step size is studied here for first- and second-order fuzzy derivatives. Under this proposed derivative, differentiation of fuzzy exponential function is estimated. The concept is applied for solving second-order linear fuzzy differential equation. The proposed approaches are applied to spring mass system dynamics in fuzzy environment. Lastly, numerical illustrations on second-order fuzzy differential equations are shown using analytical technique and graphically the results are displayed.
Enhancing the data processing speed of a deep-learning-based three-dimensional single molecule localization algorithm (FD-DeepLoc) with a combination of feature compression and pipeline programming
Authors: Guo Shuhao , Lin Jiaxun , Zhang Yingjun , Huang Zhen-Li
Published: September 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) plays an important role in biomedical applications, but its data processing is very complicated. Deep learning is a potential tool to solve this problem. As the state of art 3D super-resolution localization algorithm based on deep learning, FD-DeepLoc algorithm reported recently still has a gap with the expected goal of online image processing, even though it has greatly improved the data processing throughput. In this paper, a new algorithm Lite-FD-DeepLoc is developed on the basis of FD-DeepLoc algorithm to meet the online image processing requirements of 3D SMLM. This new algorithm uses the feature compression method to reduce the parameters of the model, and combines it with pipeline programming to accelerate the inference process of the deep learning model. The simulated data processing results show that the image processing speed of Lite-FD-DeepLoc is about twice as fast as that of FD-DeepLoc with a slight decrease in localization accuracy, which can realize real-time processing of [Formula: see text] pixels size images. The results of biological experimental data processing imply that Lite-FD-DeepLoc can successfully analyze the data based on astigmatism and saddle point engineering, and the global resolution of the reconstructed image is equivalent to or even better than FD-DeepLoc algorithm.
Nonbinary code-based graphs and applications
Authors: Hamidi Mohammad , Borumand Saeid Arsham
Published: September 2024

This paper considers the notion of nonbinary (linear) codes and the notion of hypergraphs and makes a relation between two mathematical tools for real-world applications. We consider a nonbinary (linear) code as an underline set and construct a type of hypergraphs called [Formula: see text]-hypergraph ([Formula: see text]-hypergraph) and establish any given hypergraph is isomorphic to an [Formula: see text]-hypergraph ([Formula: see text]-hypergraph). This study introduces an equivalence relation on any given code as a positive equivalence relation based on the weight of codewords, generates quotient [Formula: see text]-hypergraph, and computes the cardinal of its hyperedges and Hamming distance of any given two code words of quotient [Formula: see text]-hypergraphs. Also, we introduce a binary relation on quotient [Formula: see text]-hypergraphs, convert them to simple graphs as code-based graphs, and prove that all graphs are positive code-based graphs. We characterize the minimum distance and maximum distance of codewords in hyperedges of code-based (hyper)graphs concerning linear codes. Finally, we design real problems (such as wireless sensor (hyper)networks and American standard code for information interchange) as complex hypernetworks (such that are based on the code words) as a quotient [Formula: see text]-hypergraph ([Formula: see text]-hypergraph) and convert them to the code-based graphs (such as wireless sensor networks).
Cascaded Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion Trajectory Following for a Stratospheric Airship in Wind
Authors: Schneider Leo , Souanef Toufik , Whidborne James F.
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a guidance and control system for controlling the trajectory of a stratospheric unmanned airship using a cascaded Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion (INDI) method. The control system uses a two-loop cascaded INDI controller with virtual efforts and moments formulation to control both the airship attitude and velocity, while providing perturbation rejection properties. An active-set solver allocates the virtual controls to the airship propellers and aerodynamic surfaces while respecting the actuator bounds and rates saturation. The guidance system uses a Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion controller, where the position error dynamics formulation explicitly considers the lateral velocity of the airship, which enables it to counteract the wind influence. Simulation results demonstrate that the reference trajectory is precisely followed, even in the presence of unknown wind perturbations and both aerodynamic coefficients and mass and inertia parametric uncertainties through Monte-Carlo simulations.
Fast and stable second-order credit sensitivities of credit valuation adjustment
Authors: Daluiso Roberto
Published: September 2024

Credit Valuation Adjustment is a balance sheet item which is nowadays subject to active risk management by specialized traders. However, the most important risk factors, which are the default intensities of the counterparties, affect in a nondifferentiable way the most general Monte Carlo estimator of the adjustment, through simulation of default times. Thus the computation of first- and second-order (pure and mixed) sensitivities with respect to inputs affecting these risk factors cannot rely on direct path-wise differentiation, while any approach involving finite differences is slow and shows very high statistical noise. We present ad hoc estimators which have empirically a much smaller variance while offering very low runtime overheads over the baseline computation of the price adjustment, regardless of the number of sensitivities of interest, by leveraging adjoint (i.e., backward) algorithmic differentiation in their implementation. These estimators allow for a generic copula-based dependence structure among the default events, and can be applied beyond our main application, to payoffs depending on more than two of them. We also discuss the conversion of the so-obtained sensitivities to model parameters (e.g., default intensities) into sensitivities to the market quotes used in calibration (e.g., Credit Default Swap spreads) by generalizations of an existing implicit-function based first-order algorithm.
On the impact of provincial digital economy on high-quality economic development in China from a regional heterogeneity perspective
Authors: Song Yuping , Pei Jiahui , Zhang Jiaxin , Shi Yisha
Published: September 2024

Based on the data of 30 provinces in China from 2013 to 2021, this paper constructs indicators of the level of development of the digital economy, and explores the impact of the digital economy on the high-quality development of the economy based on the perspective of regional heterogeneity, using static and dynamic panel models. It is concluded that (1) the digital economy promotes high-quality development of the economy, and the eastern part of the country is particularly significant; and (2) the digital economy can promote high-quality development of the economy by promoting the innovation capacity of provinces and cities and reducing their carbon emissions. Finally, we put forward the recommendations of “vigorously developing the digital economy; improving the infrastructure construction and talent training in each region; establishing a regional coordination and linkage mechanism; and improving the development strategy of the digital economy”, so as to promote the high-quality development of the economy.
Early Devonian bioclastic contourites in the High Atlas: a plastered drift recording the convergence between Gondwana and Laurussia (Sub-Meseta Zone, Morocco)
Authors: Gibb M. Arwed , Hüneke Heiko , Pingel Nora , Gibb Laura M. , Richter Christian , Mayer Oliver , Aboussalam Z. Sarah , Becker R. Thomas , El Hassani Ahmed , Baidder Lahssen
Published: September 2024

Bottom-current deposits, formed in association with ancient oceanic gateways, preserve records of past global oceanic circulation, plate-tectonic events and palaeogeographical change. This outcrop study showcases a Pragian–early Emsian carbonate contourite drift, plastered on the northern upper margin of Gondwana, which recorded the convergence of Laurussia and Gondwana and the (temporal) closure of the nearby American Gateway. The results underscore the value of bed-scale features, including microfacies and primary sedimentary structures, in interpreting bottom-current dynamics.

The documented contourite-specific bi-gradational sequences, 40–80 cm thick, are largely complete and closely comparable with the standard facies sequence identified in modern oceans. The bioclastic contourites show subtle variations in grain size and mud content in the lower part, distinct sequences of inverse to normal grading at different scales in the middle and a large variety of traction structures in the upper part of the succession. This long-term coarsening-upward trend was caused by a successive increase in maximum bottom-current strength during drift growth.

Traction structures such as current ripples and dunes document a westward-directed palaeocirculation of surface or intermediate water during the Pragian–Emsian. They provide evidence of enhanced bottom-current episodes towards the top of the drift, before the contourites were buried by late Emsian shales.