bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving beyond the negative effect of the regulation of entry: Disentangling causality in new venture creation decisions
Authors: Colson Maarten , Vandekerkhof Pieter , Marneffe Wim , Schepers Jelle , Aparicio Sebastian
Published: December 2024

How and to what extent can entry regulations today still affect start-up decisions across regions and countries before formal new venture creation? This study draws on an overarching institutional framework and conducts two experiments in which we uniquely subject 634 Belgian, Dutch and German nascent entrepreneurs to multiple real regulatory scenarios for starting a new limited liability company. By disentangling how and to what extent different entry regulations and particular components of the regulation of entry can impact start-up decisions across regions, the experiments provide new very granular insights to move beyond existing knowledge about the negative association between entry regulations and new venture creation. Next to this, interestingly, after several robustness analyses, in both experiments, regional and informal institutional factors do not moderate the negative impact of the regulation of entry. In other words, across regions in this study, nascent entrepreneurs do not react significantly differently to the impact of different regulatory start-up conditions. We discuss how these results contribute to the regulatory institutions and entrepreneurship literature and address policy implications.
Uniform Boundedness on Extremal Subsets in Alexandrov Spaces
Authors: Fujioka Tadashi
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we study extremal subsets in Alexandrov spaces with dimension n, curvature

$$\ge \kappa $$

≥
κ

, and diameter

$$\le D$$

≤
D

. We show that the following three quantities are uniformly bounded above in terms of n,

$$\kappa $$

κ

, and D: (1) the number of extremal subsets in an Alexandrov space; (2) the Betti numbers of an extremal subset; (3) the volume of an extremal subset. The proof is an application of essential coverings introduced by Yamaguchi.
Baihu Jia Renshen Decoction may improve skeletal muscle and adipose tissue functions of type I diabetic rats by affecting pancreatic β-cell function
Authors: Chu Shufang , Liu Deliang , Zhao Hengxia , Liu Ling , Li Juntong , Wang Gaoxiang , Liu Xuemei , Li Huilin
Published: December 2024

Background

Baihu Jia Renshen Decoction (BJRD) is used for diabetes mellitus (DM) management in clinics.

Objective

To elucidate the potential mechanism of BJRD in treating type 1 DM (T1DM).

Methods

T1DM models were established via intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Rats were subsequently randomly divided into the normal control (NC), model (MOD), insulin (INS), INS + BJRD-medium dose (MID), and INS + BJRD-high dose (HIGH) groups. The rats’ body weight was measured. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the muscle and adipose tissues. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was utilized to verify the DEG levels.

Results

Body weights of MOD, INS, MID, and HIGH groups were significantly reduced as compared to those of NC group. Compared with NC group, MOD group showed significant Hspa1b and Notch3 downregulation and Camkk2 level elevation. Compared with MOD group, INS group showed further downregulation of the Hspa1b level, whereas MID group exhibited an increase. The Camkk2 levels in INS, MID, and HIGH groups were further reduced. The Notch3 levels did not significantly change in INS and MID groups, whereas that of HIGH group increased. Additionally, compared with NC group, MOD group demonstrated upregulation of the Myl1, Mylpf, Acacb, and Pygm levels and downregulation of Fasn level. Compared with MOD group, Myl1, Mylpf, and Pygm levels in INS, MID, and HIGH groups were down-regulated, whereas Fasn and Acacb levels were up-regulated.

Conclusion

BJRD may influence pancreatic β-cell function, thereby enhancing the function of the skeletal muscle and adipose tissues in a T1DM rat model.
Angelica decursiva (Miq.) Franch. & Sav. extract inhibits UVB-mediated photoaging by regulating MAPK-related inflammatory pathways
Authors: Kim Ha-Rim , Lee Seung-Hyeon , Kim Young-Soo , Kim Sang-Nam , Kim Seon-Young , Park Mi Hee
Published: December 2024

Background

Ultraviolet (UV)-B radiation negatively impacts skin health by inducing inflammation and accelerating photoaging through increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), collagen degradation, and inhibition of procollagen synthesis. Angelica decursiva (Miq.) Franch. & Sav. has various biological effects, however, the anti-wrinkle effect has not been reported yet. It has been reported that the ingredients have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

Objectives

This study investigated the protective effects of Angelica decursiva (Miq.) Franch. & Sav. extract (ADE) against UVB-induced photoaging in human skin fibroblasts (Hs68).

Results

ADE was non-toxic at all concentrations, confirming its safety for cosmetic applications. Furthermore, pretreatment with ADE significantly inhibited UVB-induced degradation of type I procollagen and suppressed MMP-1 expression in Hs68 cells. Additionally, abdominal skin exposure to UVB led to a significant increase in MMP-1 levels and accelerated collagen degradation. However, pretreatment with ADE effectively mitigated these effects, reducing MMP-1 expression and preserving collagen integrity.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ADE possesses anti-photoaging properties and could serve as a valuable ingredient in skincare formulations aimed at preventing UVB-induced wrinkle formation.
Field investigation of bicycles for indirect bridge structural health monitoring
Authors: May Richard , Chai Hwa Kian , Reynolds Thomas , Lu Yong
Published: December 2024

Indirect structural health monitoring (iSHM) for bridges typically utilises motorised vehicles. A large number of pedestrian and cycle bridges worldwide cannot practically be accessed by these vehicles. Nevertheless, such bridges are equally susceptible to ongoing accumulation of defects. This paper reports field investigation of using bicycles as exciters and sensor carriers for identifying bridge modal parameters. Data are gathered simultaneously from the moving bicycle and the subject bridge to reduce ambiguity. Bridge modal frequencies estimated using bicycle-mounted sensors are compared to baseline properties estimated using ambient and pedestrian heel drop inputs. Changes in baseline modal frequencies are observed to be correlated with varying temperature, a known cause of environmental and operational variation (EOV). The possible pollution of recorded signals due to human–bicycle interaction dynamics is considered. The combined rider–bicycle–bridge system is observed to exhibit nonstationary frequency behaviour during freewheeling traversals, and bridge resonance due to harmonic pedalling forces is demonstrated. Increased pedalling cadence is correlated with reduced frequency nonstationarity for the combined system. It is suggested that this could be due to an increase in the rider–bike subsystem fundamental frequency caused by rider posture. Collectively, these observations suggest the potential for the use of fleets of bicycles for iSHM, while highlighting the need for greater understanding of potential confounding due to rider–bicycle and rider–bicycle–bridge interaction dynamics as a source of EOV.
Ecological Dynamics as an Accurate and Parsimonious Contributor to Applied Practice: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Collins Dave , Carson Howie J. , Rylander Pär , Bobrownicki Ray
Published: December 2024

With sport coaches adopting and working toward increasingly evidence-grounded approaches to practice, skill acquisition has appropriately become a critical area for consideration. As part of this growing interest in skill acquisition, the ecological dynamics approach has garnered attention amongst scholars and practitioners with myriad media (e.g. peer-reviewed articles, books, podcasts and social-media outputs) extolling its benefits. In doing this, however, the available guidance, advice and scholarship have typically positioned ecological dynamics as a direct competitor to existing or traditional cognitive approaches, advising against practical integration of approaches due to theoretical incompatibility. As a standalone approach, we are concerned that there are mechanistic and epistemological issues and inconsistencies that prevent experimental comparisons and limit its applicability, novelty and capability to comprehensively address real-world athlete and coach needs. Based on this, in this Current Opinion paper, we lay out these concerns and critically examine the clarity, coherence and consistency of the approach and its associated literature. In concluding, we also suggest that a more evidence-based and mechanistically driven approach that draws upon a wider set of theoretical perspectives can offer greater benefit to athletes, coaches and practitioners in real-world sport.
Clinicians’ Perceptions of Videoconferencing Versus Face-to-Face Therapy With Children and Adolescents
Authors: Lasecke Meagan , Rousseau Alexandra , Tan Xin Yu , Wu YingHua , Baeza-Hernandez Katerina , Bunge Eduardo L.
Published: December 2024

Therapists are essential in providing videoconferencing therapy (VCT), a crucial solution to the shortage of child psychological services. Understanding the barriers to adoption for providers can help increase access to treatment for children and families. The objectives are as follows: to understand (1) child therapists’ attitudes towards VCT compared to face-to-face (FF) services, (2) how the pandemic affected child therapists’ perceptions and usage of VCT, and (3) how child therapists’ perceptions of therapeutic rapport and patient engagement relate to perceived no-show rates. In this retrospective, cross-sectional study, 181 therapists completed a web-based training survey. VCT was rated better than FF by 19% of participants and about the same as FF by 25%. The majority of participants were either “extremely satisfied” (48%) or “somewhat satisfied” (41%) with VCT. Participants retrospectively rated their perceived usefulness of VCT before the pandemic (M = 2.95) significantly higher (p < .001) than their perceived usefulness of VCT during the pandemic (M = 4.31). After completing the training survey, participants were willing to devote 53.73% of clinical time to seeing patients via VCT (compared to FF). Perceived therapeutic rapport (p < .05, OR = 1.61) and patient engagement (p < .01, OR = 2.09) were independent predictors of perceived VCT no-show rates for children. Nearly half of child therapists either prefer VCT or consider it equivalent to FF services. Furthermore, child therapists have moderate to high satisfaction with VCT and plan to continue using it for over 50% of their clinical services. This study highlights that VCT is likely to remain a permanent modality in child psychological services.
Transcriptional profiling of Fraxinus excelsior leaves during the early infection phase of ash dieback
Authors: Ferrari Renata Callegari , Chano Victor , Shrestha Karuna , Dominguez-Flores Tania , Ridley Maia , Fussi Barbara , Seidel Hannes , Gailing Oliver , Budde Katharina B.
Published: December 2024

Ash dieback (ADB) has been causing the progressive decline of Fraxinus excelsior trees throughout Europe, urging research and forest management to develop strategies to combat ADB. A genetically heritable component in susceptibility to this fungal disease was reported in common gardens. Thus, exploring the molecular basis of ADB susceptibility will further support breeding initiatives in the future. We performed transcriptional profiling of infected and uninfected leaves from two ash genotypes with different susceptibility to Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. Leaf rachises were sampled one week following inoculation. Differential gene expression analysis was performed to compare between treatments in each genotype (individual response) or in genotypes and treatments combined (common response). Due to the heterogeneity in the response, only DEGs were discussed that passed stringent assessment. Our results revealed that UW1, the most susceptible genotype, showed a total of 515 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), some of them possibly suggesting a self-control mechanism, hindering an effective immune response and causing increased susceptibility. On the other hand, FAR3, the least susceptible genotype with 230 DEGs, seemed to induce a contained but more efficient response, hinting toward a salicylic acid-mediated process and activating pathogen-related (like) proteins as thaumatin-like, peroxidases, and chitinases. In the common response, 512 DEGs were modulated and transcripts from the phenylpropanoid pathway were commonly altered in both genotypes. Altogether, this work comprised an initial transcriptional exploration including two selected genotypes with distinct susceptibility to ADB, however, the heterogenous response indicated the need to further improve the experimental inoculation approach. Exploring gene expression patterns in ADB susceptibility holds promise to reveal early response mechanisms, and new markers related to susceptibility, as well as to contribute to developing strategies that may help contain ADB.
Advancing sustainable renewable energy: XGBoost algorithm for the prediction of water yield in hemispherical solar stills
Authors: Sarow Salwa Ahmad , Flayyih Hasan Abbas , Bazerkan Maryam , Al-Haddad Luttfi A. , Al-Sharify Zainab T. , Ogaili Ahmed Ali Farhan
Published: December 2024

The increasing demand for clean water necessitates innovative approaches to optimize water productivity through renewable energy systems. This study harnessed computer science-based algorithm to forecast the productivity of hemispherical solar stills (HSS) enhanced by various sand beds, reflectors, and a vapor extraction fan using XGBoost analysis. Initially explored was the effect of different sand types and bed heights on HSS performance, with the findings indicating that black sand, especially at a height of 1 cm combined with reflectors and a fan, markedly improved efficiency and production. An economic analysis revealed a significant reduction in water treatment costs with the optimized system. The current work extends these experimental insights through XG-Boost to predict productivity, employing evaluation metrics such as Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Coefficient of Variation of the Root Mean Squared Error (CVRMSE), and the determination coefficient (R2), with resulted values denoted as 0.43708%, 0.95879%, 0.2780%, 0.05290%, 12.2078%, and 0.88144% respectively. This approach significantly advances the predictability and efficiency of solar distillation systems by pressing global challenges of water scarcity and sustainability and the use of solar energy.
A Novel Heterozygous IHH c.331_333del Mutation Identified in a Fetus with Brachydactyly Type A1 Causes IHH Protein Maturation Failure in HEK293T Cells
Authors: Zhu Ting , Guan Lijie , Chen Dan , Luo Yi , Zhu Mianmian , Sun Rongyue , Shi Jiamin , Wang Qiu , Chen Yuan , Wang Yihong , Wang Hongwei , Lu Zhongqiu , Wang Dan
Published: December 2024

Brachydactyly A1 (BDA1) is a rare disorder characterized by the disproportionate shortening of fingers and/or toes with or without symphalangism. Mutations in Indian hedgehog signaling molecule (IHH), which impair the effect of functional IHH protein derived from its precursor IHH, are commonly identified in patients with BDA1 or acrocapitofemoral dysplasia (ACFD). The ultrasound phenotype of fetuses with IHH mutations has rarely been described. To better understand the consequences of IHH mutation, we analyzed the characteristics of a Chinese fetus with BDA1 caused by a novel heterozygous IHH mutation. Clinical data and genomic DNA were collected from the proband and family members. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify potential causative mutations. Sequence analysis was performed to investigate the conservation of the affected leucine residue in IHH. Protein 3D modeling was performed to predict the effects of the mutation on protein structure. In vitro overexpression transfection experiments in human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cell lines were performed to evaluate the pathogenicity of the identified mutation. The fetal proband carried a novel heterozygous mutation in IHH (NM_002181.4: c.331_333delCTG, NP_002172.2: p.Leu111del) inherited from the father; this mutation manifested as shortening of the limbs, with more severe shortening observed in the proximal extremities than in the distal extremities, as evidenced by ultrasound. The Leu111 residue is highly conserved among vertebrates, and deletion of this residue destabilizes the protein structure. Western blotting analysis of HEK293T cells in overexpression transfection experiments revealed that the Leu111del mutation led to an increase in the level of the IHH precursor and a reduction in the level of functional IHH protein compared with those in HEK293T cells expressing wild-type IHH, indicating that this mutation might cause IHH protein dysmaturity. The novel heterozygous mutation c.331_333delCTG (p.Leu111del) in the IHH gene is the likely cause of BDA1 in this Chinese fetus. This mutation causes IHH protein maturation failure. These findings contribute to our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of BDA1 and the clinical identification of fetal BDA1.
Study on the Positive Temperature Anomalies in East Antarctica During the Winter of 2018
Authors: Shan Yulong , Ding Jinfeng , Zhu Xiaoqian , Qi Wei , Liu Lei , Liu Xichuan , Ding Minghu
Published: December 2024

East Antarctica has experienced significant positive temperature anomalies during winter 2018, with Zhongshan (ZS) station recording its highest winter average temperature since 2008 and fourth highest since its establishment in 1989. This study employs observational data and ERA5 reanalysis to diagnose the phenomenon, revealing that temperature anomalies at 300 hPa are mainly driven by advection and adiabatic processes, which is the second highest recorded from 2000 to 2020. However, diabatic process are significantly important at 700 hPa, being the third highest during the period. The reduction in sea ice, combined with enhanced sinking motion and increased sea‐air temperature difference, together contributes to the variations of diabatic heating. The increased precipitation, exceeding the historical average by 100% along the southwestern shore of Prydz Bay, further induces localized warming. The increased atmospheric pressure associated with the negative Southern Annular Mode phase is the primary cause influencing the advection, adiabatic, and diabatic processes.
Adapting Ensemble‐Calibration Techniques to Probabilistic Solar‐Wind Forecasting
Authors: Edward‐Inatimi N. O. , Owens M. J. , Barnard L. , Turner H. , Marsh M. , Gonzi S. , Lang M. , Riley P.
Published: December 2024

Solar‐wind forecasting is critical for predicting events which can affect Earth's technological systems. Typically, forecasts combine coronal model outputs with heliospheric models to predict near‐Earth conditions. Ensemble forecasting generates sets of outputs to create probabilistic forecasts which quantify forecast uncertainty, vital for reliable/actionable forecasts. We adapt meteorological methods to create a calibrated solar‐wind ensemble and probabilistic forecast for ambient solar wind, a prerequisite for accurate coronal mass ejection (CME) forecasting. Calibration is achieved by adjusting ensemble inputs/outputs to align the ensemble spread with observed event frequencies. We produce hindcasts in near‐Earth space using coronal‐model output over Solar Cycle 24, as input to Heliospheric Upwind eXtrapolation with time dependence (HUXt) solar‐wind model. Making spatial perturbations to the coronal model output at 0.1 AU, we produce ensembles of inner‐boundary conditions for HUXt, evaluating how forecast accuracy was impacted by the scales of perturbations applied. We found optimal spatial perturbations described by Gaussian distributions with variances of 20° latitude and 10° longitude; these might represent spatial uncertainty within the coronal model. This produced probabilistic forecasts better matching observed frequencies. Calibration improved forecast reliability, reducing the Brier score by 9% and forecast decisiveness increasing AUC ROC score by 2.5%. Improvements were subtle but systematic. Additionally, we explored statistical post‐processing to correct over‐confidence bias, improving forecast actionability. However, this method, applied post‐run, does not affect the solar‐wind state used to propagate CMEs. This work represents the first formal calibration of solar‐wind ensembles, laying groundwork for comprehensive forecasting systems like a calibrated multi‐model ensemble.
Exploring cost reduction strategies for serum free media development
Authors: Quek Jun Ping , Gaffoor Azra Anwar , Tan Yu Xuan , Tan Tessa Rui Min , Chua Yu Feng , Leong Dawn Sow Zong , Ali Alif Sufiyan , Ng Say Kong
Published: December 2024

Cultivated meat production offers solutions in addressing global food security and sustainability challenges. However, serum-free media (SFM) used in cultivating the cells are expensive, contributing to at least 50% of variable operating costs. This review explores technologies for cost-effective SFM, focusing on reducing cost from using growth factors and recombinant proteins, using affordable raw materials for basal media, and implementing cost-saving measures like media recycling and reducing waste build-up.
Emerging influence of the Australian Monsoon on Indian Ocean interannual variability in a warming climate
Authors: Chen Mengyan , Collins Matthew , Yu Jin-Yi , Wang Xin , Zhang Lei , Tam Chi-Yung
Published: December 2024

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Tripole (IOT) represent primary modes of interannual variability in the Indian Ocean, impacting both regional and global climate. Unlike the IOD, which is closely related to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), our findings unveil a substantial influence of the Australian Monsoon on the IOT. An anomalously strong Monsoon induces local sea surface temperature (SST) variations via the wind-evaporation-SST mechanism, triggering atmospheric circulation anomalies in the eastern Indian Ocean. These circulation changes lead to changes in oceanic heat transport, facilitating the formation of the IOT. Our analysis reveals a strengthening connection between the Australian Monsoon and the IOT in recent decades, with a projected further strengthening under global warming. This contrasts with the diminished coupling between ENSO and IOD in recent decades from observations and model projections, illustrating evolving Indian Ocean dynamics under the warming climate.
HSP60 controls mitochondrial ATP generation for optimal virus-specific IL-21-producing CD4 and cytotoxic CD8 memory T cell responses
Authors: Ghahari Nazanin , Shegefti Saina , Alaei Mahsa , Amara Amine , Telittchenko Roman , Isnard Stéphane , Routy Jean-Pierre , Olagnier David , van Grevenynghe Julien
Published: December 2024

We have shown that virus-specific CD4 and CD8 memory T cells (TM) induce autophagy after T cell receptor (TCR) engagement to provide free glutamine and fatty acids, including in people living with HIV-1 (PLWH). These nutrients fuel mitochondrial ATP generation through glutaminolysis and fatty acid oxidation (FAO) pathways, to fulfill the bioenergetic demands for optimal IL-21 and cytotoxic molecule production in CD4 and CD8 cells, respectively. Here, we expand our knowledge on how the metabolic events that occur in the mitochondria of virus-specific TM down-stream of the autophagy are regulated. We show that HSP60 chaperone positively regulates the protein levels for multiple glutaminolysis- and FAO-related enzymes, thereby actively fueling the levels of cellular alpha-ketoglutarate (αKG) and related mitochondrial ATP-dependent antiviral T cell immunity in both CD4 and CD8 TM. Finally, we provide a way to rescue defective ATP generation in mitochondria and dependent effector functions in virus-specific TM including anti-HIV-1 protective responses, when HSP60 expression is impaired after TCR engagement in patients, in the form of dimethyl 2-oxoglutarate (DMKG) supplementation.
Zweifel olefination for C-glycosylation
Authors: Trauner Florian , Boutet Bilel , Pilz Fabian , Weber Verena , Didier Dorian
Published: December 2024

C-glycosides are significant in medicinal chemistry due to their resistance to enzymatic hydrolysis, making them more stable and bioavailable compared to O-glycosides. Their unique structure also offers potential for developing drugs with improved therapeutic properties, particularly in treating diseases like diabetes and cancer. The main challenge in synthesizing C-glycosides lies in forming the carbon-carbon bond between the sugar and aglycone efficiently, while controlling the stereochemistry and minimizing side reactions. Starting from glycal derivatives, the Zweifel olefination presents an elegant opportunity to access C-glycosides in a selective manner. α-Lithiation of D-glucal, L-rhamnal, D-xylal and L-arabinal scaffolds was employed as a starting point in the synthesis of corresponding unsaturated aryl-, heteroaryl- and alkenyl-C-glycosides. This provides a straightforward strategy towards pharmacorelevant gliflozins and other unreported rhamnal- and xylal-analogs.
Emissions of HFC-23 do not reflect commitments made under the Kigali Amendment
Authors: Adam Ben , Western Luke M. , Mühle Jens , Choi Haklim , Krummel Paul B. , O’Doherty Simon , Young Dickon , Stanley Kieran M. , Fraser Paul J. , Harth Christina M. , Salameh Peter K. , Weiss Ray F. , Prinn Ronald G. , Kim Jooil , Park Hyeri , Park Sunyoung , Rigby Matt
Published: December 2024

HFC-23 (trifluoromethane) is a potent greenhouse gas released to the atmosphere primarily as a by-product of HCFC-22 (chlorodifluoromethane) synthesis. Since 2020, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol has required Parties to destroy their HFC-23 emissions to the extent possible. Here, we present updated HFC-23 emissions estimated from atmospheric observations. Globally, emissions fell to 14.0 ± 0.9 Gg yr-1 in 2023 from their maximum in 2019 of 17.3 ± 0.8 Gg yr-1, but remained five times higher than reported in 2021. Atmospheric observation-based emissions for eastern China, the world’s largest HCFC-22 producer, were also found to be substantially higher than 2020-2022 reported emissions. We estimate that potential HFC-23 sources not directly linked to HCFC-22 production explain only a minor, albeit highly uncertain, fraction of this discrepancy. Our findings suggest that HFC-23 emissions have not been destroyed to the extent reported by the Parties since the implementation of the Kigali Amendment.
High-performance strain sensors using flexible micro-porous 3D-graphene with conductive network synergy
Authors: Zhang Jinqiu , Lian Shanshui , Zhu Fanghao , Cao Genqiang , Ma Hui , Wang Bingkun , Wu Huijuan , Zhao Ziqi , Liu Zhiduo , Wang Gang
Published: December 2024

The flexible strain sensor shows exceptional electromechanical performance and stability under various strain conditions. It accurately captures a range of human activities such as facial muscle contractions, breathing patterns and joint movements.
Enhancing power grid management and incident response mechanisms through consortium blockchain
Authors: Islam Md. Mainul , Atat Rachad , Ismail Muhammad , Davis Katherine R. , Serpedin Erchin
Published: December 2024

Enhancing the resilience and reliability of power grids is crucial amid rising cyber threats and system complexities. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an energy‐efficient, consortium blockchain‐based global alarm system for power grid management. Using smart contracts and the proof of‐authority consensus algorithm, the alarm system triggers global alarms upon detecting local anomalies, ensuring a prompt response to partition the power grid and mitigate failures. The effectiveness is validated by simulating the Iberian power system with 15 providers from various regions. Key metrics, such as load shedding, damage reduction, energy consumption, latency, and transaction costs, are used to assess the performance. Through simulations, we show that the blockchain‐based system effectively limits the damage propagation and the load shedding during cascading failures by delaying the onset of instability and maintaining lower damage levels compared to non‐blockchain scenarios. Our investigations reveal that the proposed global alarm mechanism reduces the damage and load shedding by up to 29% and 87%, respectively, showcasing its potential for preventing widespread outages.
Neural network models for predicting vascular age from PPG signals: A comparative study
Authors: Abrisham Kiana Pilevar , Alipour Khalil , Tarvirdizadeh Bahram , Ghamari Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent a significant global health issue, necessitating precise assessment methods. An important factor is vascular ageing, marked by a progressive decline in arterial elasticity, which impairs the ability of arteries to regulate blood flow effectively. Evaluating vascular age by comparing blood vessel health to chronological age offers valuable insights into arterial stiffness, aiding in the prevention of CVDs. This study employs four distinct neural network models to predict an individual's vascular age using photoplethysmography (PPG), a non‐invasive, cost‐effective, and reliable technique. PPG pulse waves from 4374 healthy adults, aged 25–75, grouped into six 10‐year intervals from both radial and digital arteries, are used to explore age‐related variations. The neural network models assessed include multilayer perceptron (MLP) and 1D convolutional neural network (CNN 1D) with raw signals, as well as 2D CNN and the pre‐trained VGG‐16 model with spectrograms as input. Results reveal that MLP achieved 95.3% accuracy for radial and 92.7% for digital arteries, CNN 1D achieved 99.3% for radial and 99.4% for digital arteries, and the 2D CNN model achieved 99.6% accuracy for both arteries. Notably, VGG‐16 outperformed all models with an accuracy of 99.9% for radial and 99.8% for digital arteries. However, it is essential to consider that VGG‐16's extended training time per epoch may pose limitations when dealing with large datasets and time constraints. In such scenarios, the more efficient 2D CNN, with appropriate hyperparameter tuning, may provide advantages in vascular age prediction. This predictive capability enhances the identification of cardiovascular ageing deviations and underlying disorders, improving assessment methods and proactive cardiovascular health management. By comparing blood vessel health to chronological age, this approach potentially enhances clinical practice, supports early intervention, and facilitates personalised treatment plans.
Molecular and Clinical Risk Factors Associated with Thrombosis and Bleeding in Myelofibrosis Patients
Authors: Morath Olga , Crodel Carl , Rinke Jenny , Sander Inken , Tekbas Aysun , Meggendorfer Manja , Baer Constance , Hochhaus Andreas , Ernst Thomas
Published: December 2024

Background The risk of thrombosis and bleeding in myelofibrosis (MF) has been historically underappreciated. We sought to investigate potential molecular and clinical risk factors for venous (VTE) and arterial (ATE) thrombotic events as well as bleeding episodes.

Methods Data from 246 consecutive MF patients were analyzed. Driver mutations were tested in 191 patients.

Results In total, 181 mutations were found in 177 MF patients: 118 (61.8%) patients showed JAK2-V617F, 50 patients (26.2%) showed CALR, and 6 patients (3.1%) showed MPL mutations. Two patients were JAK2-V617F and MPL positive and one patient was positive for all three genes. Fourteen (7.3%) patients were triple negative. The JAK2-V617F allele burden was assessed in 63 JAK2-V617F-mutated patients, revealing a median of 35.6% (range: 5.0–96.0). At the time of MF diagnosis and during follow-up, 84 thrombotic events (52 VTEs and 32 ATEs) were observed, corresponding to 6.6% of patients per year. A significant association was found between JAK2-V617F mutation (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.1–5.6) and prior VTE (OR: 7.6, 95% CI: 2.1–27.1) with an increased risk of VTE. Patients with prefibrotic MF had a higher rate of ATE than patients with overt MF. Hemorrhagic events occurred in 34 (13.8%) patients, corresponding to 3.8% of patients per year. Fibrosis grade 3 was associated with bleeding risk (OR: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.2–9.2, p = 0.02).

Conclusions The presence of the JAK2-V617F mutation, regardless of allele burden, and prior thrombosis were strongly associated with an increased risk of VTE. Patients with prefibrotic MF might be considered at high risk for developing ATE.
Análise retrospectiva dos desfechos clínicos e radiológicos após a osteotomia de Dunn modificada em pacientes com escorregamento epifisário proximal do fêmur estável, crônico e moderado a grave
Authors: Bhuyan Basant Kumar
Published: December 2024

Objetivo O manejo do escorregamento epifisário proximal do fêmur (EEPF) foi completamente transformado pela osteotomia de Dunn modificada, uma osteotomia de realinhamento subcapital por meio da técnica segura de luxação cirúrgica originalmente descrita por Ganz. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os desfechos clínicos e radiológicos de pacientes com EEPF moderado a grave após a osteotomia de Dunn modificada.

Métodos Um total de 15 pacientes (16 quadris, com um caso bilateral; 12 homens, 3 mulheres) com idade entre 10,2 e 17 anos (média: 14,3) e EEPF crônico, estável e moderado a grave (moderado = 6; grave = 10) foram submetidos à osteotomia de Dunn modificada como tratamento. A amplitude de movimento (ADM) da articulação do quadril e os escores de quadril de Harris (HHS) e Merle d'Aubigné (MdA) foram utilizados para avaliações clínicas. A avaliação radiográfica usou os ângulos de Southwick e alfa.

Resultados No acompanhamento mais recente (média: 8,6 anos; 3,1–14), a média da ADM da articulação do quadril, o HHS médio (pré-operatório: 69,20 ± 5,94; pós-operatório: 86 ± 7,37, p < 0,00001) e o MdA médio (pré-operatório: 12,47 ± 1,13; pós-operatório: 14,27 ± 1,83, p < 0,00001) demonstraram melhoras clínicas estatisticamente significativas. Os resultados radiológicos demonstraram melhoras no ângulo Southwick médio (pré-operatório: 56,60 ± 12,89°; pós-operatório: 16,4 ± 4,69°, p < 0,00001) e no ângulo alfa (pré-operatório: 101,87 ± 12,88°; pós-operatório: 29,33 ± 7,29°, p < 0,00001). Foram observadas duas complicações pós-operatórias significativas: necrose avascular (NAV) da cabeça femoral e infecção profunda.

Conclusão De acordo com os achados do estudo, a osteotomia de Dunn modificada é uma opção terapêutica segura e eficaz no EEPF estável, crônico e moderado a grave, com risco controlável de complicações.
Reparo das raízes meniscais posteriores com agulha peridural por meio da combinação de portais artroscópicos e túnel transtibial
Authors: Nakahashi Eiji Rafael , Lemes Igor Leal Clemente , Albano Mauro Batista , Stieven Filho Edmar , Namba Mario Massatomo , Nunes Carolline Popovicz
Published: December 2024

O reparo de raízes meniscais posteriores é um procedimento considerado de alto custo pelo uso habitual de dispositivos específicos para sua realização. Essa situação acaba se tornando um fator limitante, principalmente no cenário do sistema público de saúde. Diante desse contexto, tornou-se necessário o desenvolvimento de métodos alternativos para o tratamento dessas lesões. Entre as opções possíveis, a técnica que combina o uso de portais anteriores e túnel ósseo tibial com a utilização de agulha peridural mostrou-se eficaz e de grande relevância devido ao seu baixo custo. Este estudo tem como finalidade trazer orientações técnicas e sugestões para aumentar a taxa de sucesso desse procedimento e possibilitar sua realização por cirurgiões de joelho em locais com recursos limitados.
Avaliação do transplante osteocondral homólogo a fresco no joelho como tratamento de salvação: Série de casos prospectiva com mínimo de dez meses de seguimento
Authors: Gracitelli Guilherme , Ferreira Galvão Pedro Henrique Schmidt Alves , Carrer Rayana Ueda , Rezende Fernando Cury , Kubota Marcelo Seiji , Franciozi Carlos Eduardo
Published: December 2024

Objetivo Avaliar o desfecho clínico e a satisfação dos pacientes submetidos ao transplante osteocondral homólogo a fresco no joelho como método de salvação.

Métodos Foram analisados no pré-operatório 8 joelhos de 7 pacientes do sexo masculino que foram submetidos ao transplante osteocondral homólogo a fresco por um único cirurgião e acompanhados por um período que variou entre 10 meses e 5 anos e 5 meses. Os desfechos clínicos utilizaram os escores no International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) e no item qualidade de vida do Knee and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS-QV).

Resultado A amostra analisada consistiu em casos complexos, todos com cirurgias prévias nos joelhos operados. A melhora da função variou, sendo que seis dos sete pacientes operados apresentaram melhora clínica estatisticamente significante, de acordo com o escore IKDC, e um único paciente se definiu como moderadamente satisfeito com o procedimento. Todos os pacientes avaliados apresentaram melhora no item qualidade de vida avaliado pelo escore KOOS. Não houve falha, necessidade de reabordagem dos pacientes operados, ou ocorrência de infecção.

Conclusão O transplante osteocondral homólogo a fresco é um método de salvação seguro no nosso meio para tratar lesões grandes e com falha de procedimentos prévios. Apesar da pequena amostra desta série de casos, a maioria dos desfechos clínicos foram positivos e sem complicações associadas.
Effect of the Abrikosov-vortex density on dislocation hysteresis losses in Pb–In single crystals
Authors: Beloshapka V. Ya. , Platkov V. Ya.
Published: December 2024

Dislocation hysteresis losses δh have been studied as a function of the magnetic induction ℬ in a specimen. As ℬ increases the value of δh decreases abruptly and reaches a plateau at ℬ≳2/3ℬc2. Plastic deformation of single crystals results in a lower ratio of the deformation amplitudes necessary for attaining the same value of δh in the n and s states. At higher values of the deformation this ratio becomes equal to unity. The results of our investigations show that the introduction of Abrikosov vortices into a crystal increases the dislocation damping coefficient, and as a consequence the unpinning stress of underdamped dislocation segments increases. In the case of overdamped dislocation segments the unpinning dynamics does not depend on the damping coefficient.
Amplitude of oscillation effects of the flux-quantization type in a normal metal
Authors: Gogadze G. A.
Published: December 2024

The amplitude of the oscillations of the density of states νox(E) is calculated for normal cylindrical conductors with a magnetic-flux period of hc/e, with allowance for the contribution from higher “subbands.” The result is asymptotically exact in the quasiclassical parameter kFR.
Effect of pressure and impurities on the electronic spectrum of cadmium
Authors: Grechnev G. E.
Published: December 2024

Semi-empirical nonlocal pseudopotentials are used to calculate changes in the electronic spectrum of cadmium at helium temperatures under uniform and uniaxial compression as well as under doping with isovalent impurities (magnesium and mercury). The local damping parameters are calculated for the electronic states in Cd−(Mg) and Cd−(Hg). A number of electronic topological transitions are predicted at the symmetry points K and L and on the symmetry line Σ in the Brillouin zone. The paper discusses the relation between distinctive features of the behavior of some physical characteristics of Cd−Mg and Cd−Hg alloys as well as of cadmium under pressure, along with changes in the Fermi-surface topology.
Salient features of the application of corepresentation theory to the lattice dynamics problem
Authors: Kovalev O. V.
Published: December 2024

The group-theoretical scheme generally employed for analysis of lattice vibrations involves irreducible corepresentations and is regarded as being incomplete and somewhat cumbersome. The four papers presented here suggest a new scheme based on the theories of irreducible and induced corepresentations (CR). In this scheme, the reality of the displacements and the microstructure of a crystal are easily and clearly taken into account, all possible types of secular equations are revealed, and a method is provided for solving the secular equations in cases not considered earlier. This paper presents a formal version of the CR theory, the only version possible in approximate calculations. To be specific, unlike the usual practice, the basis vectors of CR theory are not assumed to be the eigenvectors of the energy operator; instead, we first develop a theory of CR matrix forms, use vectors of a sufficiently arbitrary corresponding space (displacements, local functions) to construct CR basis vectors from the CR matrices and then use the basis vectors to derive the eigenvectors by diagonalizing the Hamiltonian. In this version of the theory we prove several theorems and describe a universal procedure for carrying out the transformation to the real form of corepresentations. We propose that the energy be represented as a combination of invariant forms constructed from displacements which transform according to the irreducible corepresentations. A theorem on the number of second-order invariants is presented, and all of the invariants are written out. In particular, the fact that four mixed invariants correspond to two identical corepresentations of type b necessitates a restructuring of the group-theoretical schemes for the analysis of quasiparticles in a crystal.
Method of induced corepresentations and an invariant expression for the energy in the lattice dynamics problem
Authors: Kovalev O. V.
Published: December 2024

The method proposed in the preceding paper for inducing irreducible representations (IR) and irreducible corepresentations (ICR) for the local position symmetry groups on representations and corepresentations of the groups Φ and Φ + KΦ is made specific for the case of atomic displacements. The main differences between this scheme and the customary vibration-analysis proposed by E. Wigner for molecules and G. Ya. Lyubarskii for crystals boil down to: 1) The initial local unit vectors in the first position are chosen arbitrarily while the unit vectors in the other positions are obtained by applying the elements of group Φ to the initial unit vectors. The directions of the unit vectors, therefore, depend on the positions, and the construction of the basis vectors of the ICR of the group Φ + KΦ is simplified substantially. 2) Only individual irreducible components of the vector representation of the local group, and not the whole representation at once, are induced. The composition of the vector corepresentation V of the group Φ + KΦ, therefore, can be easily determined from the generalized Frobenius theorem whereas V itself is obtained in partially reduced form. 3) It is shown that in the eigenfrequency problem it is sufficient to find only those parts of the unitary matrix R2 which relate the vectors of the first row of the ICR to the local unit vectors. 4) Initially the energy is written in terms of projections onto specially introduced unit vectors. Using the matrix R2 we transform the energy into a form which contains displacement coordinates symmetrized with respect to the group Φ + KΦ, i.e. projections onto the basis vectors of the ICR of the group Φ + KΦ. The resulting dynamical matrix thus differs significantly from that in the generally accepted theory. The general Hamiltonian is separated into the parts H(F,K), each of which is characterized by an ICR star and is related to only one system of equivalent irreducible corepresentations (F is the type of equivalency and K is the star symbol).
Closed expressions for macroscopic parameters in the method of induced corepresentations in lattice dynamics
Authors: Kovalev O. V.
Published: December 2024

The general problem of calculating the frequencies is split into two. In the first part we establish the form of the Hamiltonian H(F,K) which would ensure the most reduced form of the matrix employed to obtain the secular equation for determining the eigenfrequencies. The second part of the problem consists in developing methods of solving the secular equations that would give the correct number of frequencies even with approximate numerical calculations. In this paper we consider the first part of the problem. Its complexity is due to the fact that, on the one hand, the ICR matrices can be taken in substantially different forms (small b-type irreducible corepresentations can be taken in two forms while the forms of complete ICR's of all types depend essentially on how the basis vectors are introduced) and that, on the other hand, only with a fortuitous selection of the forms of the ICR's can we confine ourselves to considering only the coordinates that pertain to the first rows of the complete ICR's. “Necessary” forms of the complete ICR's are established for all possible vectors k (stars K) and types of ICR. In each case invariant second-order combinations are constructed from the displacement coordinates, transforming according to an ICR. The sums of these combinations with indeterminate coefficients are equated to the corresponding H(F,K). The macroscopic parameters (the coefficients of the invariant combinational) are thus expressed in terms of microscopic parameters (the elements of the dynamical matrix). The symmetry of Φ + KΦ is taken into account completely and in the easiest possible way. The procedure for determining the macroscopic parameters was taken from a paper on magnetic phase transitions published by this author in 1980, and can be applied in the theories of spin waves, excitons, etc.
Drumming as Embodied and Mindful Performance: Observations on the Aesthetic Theories of Bill Bruford and Shaun Gallagher
Authors: Marino Stefano
Published: December 2024

In this article, I explore some questions concerning the aesthetics of musical performance. I approach this topic from a perspective influenced by some theoretical works of Bill Bruford, Shaun Gallagher, and Richard Shusterman, and choose the musical practice of drumming as a promising case to exemplify certain concepts and themes. Following various insights inspired, in particular, by Bruford and Gallagher, I argue for a conception of drumming as embodied and mindful performance, in contrast to other influential conceptions (sometimes suggested by philosophers, other times by drummers) that understand musical performance in general, and the art of drumming in particular, as mindless activities; namely, as a sort of selfless ‘flow’ without thought.
Unseen Spaces: Psoriasis Inversa Between the Toes
Authors: Preis Sarah , Biedermann Tilo , Zink Alexander
Published: December 2024

A 6-year-old girl presented with long-standing, erythematous plaques in the interdigital spaces of her toes that were resistant to antifungal and other antimicrobial treatments. The discovery of additional lesions on fully-body examination prompted the diagnosis of inverse psoriasis, further supported by a positive family history. After topical treatment with vitamin D analogs, her lesions resolved completely within eight weeks. Interdigital psoriasis is a rare form of inverse psoriasis and should be considered in cases of resistant interdigital skin lesions, especially with a family history of psoriasis.