bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canadian cross‐border insolvency law and the triumph of “modified universalism”: A retrospective
Authors: Nocilla Alfonso
Published: October 2024

“This article examines the implementation of the Model Law on Cross‐Border Insolvency in Canada and the evolution of the concept of “modified universalism”. In particular, the article argues that Canadian courts have developed an expansive view of modified universalism, based upon a liberal and purposive interpretive approach, that prioritizes cooperation and coordination with foreign courts to the greatest possible extent. This expansive view of modified universalism began developing in the jurisprudence long before Canada adopted the Model Law in 2009. Although this evolution was not entirely without controversy, since 2009 the law has continued to develop along the same lines. Thus, the Canadian experience illustrates the important role played by the courts in laying the groundwork for the successful adoption and implementation of the Model Law. This can be contrasted with the more restrictive approaches taken by courts in certain other jurisdictions. At the same time, the article also highlights the conceptual indeterminacy of modified universalism, suggesting that more work is needed to fill gaps and resolve inconsistencies that may hamper the law's further development.
A patterned mechanical–electrical coupled sensing patch for multimodal muscle function evaluation
Authors: Xue Jiangtao , Zou Yang , Wan Zhirong , Liu Minghao , Wang Yiqian , Chu Huaqing , Tan Puchuan , Wu Li , Wang Engui , Ouyang Han , Deng Yulin , Li Zhou
Published: October 2024

Muscles, the fundamental components supporting all human movement, exhibit various signals upon contraction, including mechanical signals indicating tremors or mechanical deformation and electrical signals responsive to muscle fiber activation. For noninvasive wearable devices, these signals can be measured using surface electromyography (sEMG) and force myography (FMG) techniques, respectively. However, relying on a single source of information is insufficient for a comprehensive evaluation of muscle condition. In order to accurately and effectively evaluate the various states of muscles, it is necessary to integrate sEMG and FMG in a spatiotemporally synchronized manner. This study presents a flexible sensor for multimodal muscle state monitoring, integrating serpentine‐structured sEMG electrodes with fingerprint‐like FMG sensors into a patch approximately 250 μm thick. This design achieves a multimodal assessment of muscle conditions while maintaining a compact form factor. A thermo‐responsive adhesive hydrogel is incorporated to enhance skin adhesion, improving the signal‐to‐noise ratio of the sEMG signals (33.07 dB) and ensuring the stability of the FMG sensor during mechanical deformation and tremors. The patterned coupled sensing patch demonstrates its utility in tracking muscular strength, assessing fatigue levels, and discerning features of muscle dysfunction by analyzing the time‐domain and frequency‐domain characteristics of the mechanical–electrical coupled signals, highlighting its potential application in sports training and rehabilitation monitoring.

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Seizure recurrence following the first unprovoked seizure: Risk factors among children in UAE
Authors: Saleh Dina Amin , Hassan Abeera
Published: October 2024

In a retrospective study of paediatric and adolescent patients in Abu Dhabi, UAE, who experienced their first unprovoked seizure between March 2016 and March 2020, with a minimum one‐year follow‐up, we identified significant risk factors associated with seizure recurrence. Among 317 patients, 96.2% experienced seizure recurrence, with the majority (68.8%) occurring within the first 6‐month follow‐up period. Notable risk factors for recurrence included focal seizures, symptomatic seizure causes, abnormal initial electroencephalogram (EEG) findings, abnormal brain magnetic resonance imaging results, and the presence of neurological disorders. Interestingly, the type of epileptiform activity in the initial EEG did not predict recurrence risk. Over a 3‐year period, the overall recurrence risk was 98.4%, particularly higher in cases with symptomatic seizures compared to idiopathic (genetic) ones. These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring, particularly in the early post‐seizure follow‐up period, and advocate for initial EEG assessments, especially in cases of remote symptomatic first unprovoked seizures.
From wastewater to feed: Understanding per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances occurrence in wastewater‐irrigated crops
Authors: Kosiarski Kelly , Usner Charles (Zeke) , Preisendanz Heather E.
Published: October 2024

Reusing treated wastewater for irrigation is a sustainable way to recycle nutrients and reduce freshwater use. However, wastewater irrigation inadvertently introduces per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into agroecosystems, causing concerns regarding potential adverse effects to ecosystem, animal, and human health. Therefore, a better understanding of the pathways by which PFAS accumulate in forage crops is needed. A greenhouse study was conducted to (1) quantify the contribution of root uptake versus foliar sorption of PFAS in corn (Zea mays) and orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata), (2) assess effects of PFAS‐impacted wastewater irrigation on plant health, and (3) determine the potential implications for bioaccumulation. The greenhouse study was composed of four treatments for each forage crop to isolate the relative contribution of two uptake pathways. Results suggested that foliar sorption was an unlikely contributor to PFAS concentrations observed in crop tissue. Root uptake was identified as the predominant uptake pathway. PFAS were detected more frequently in orchard grass samples compared to corn silage samples. Additionally, corn exhibited a lower uptake of long‐chain PFAS compared to grass. Overall, no plant health effects on growth attributable to PFAS concentrations were observed. Forage data suggest cattle exposure to PFAS would be largely short‐chain PFAS or long‐chain “replacement” compounds (>50%). However, cattle may still be exposed to potentially harmful long‐chain PFAS; levels in the forage crops exceeded the tolerable weekly intake set by the European Food Safety Authority. This study provides insights on PFAS entry into the food chain and potential implications for livestock and human health.
Social capital, gender‐based resilience, and well‐being among urban and rural households in Togo
Authors: Akakpo Afi Florence , Sodokin Koffi , Couchoro Mawuli Kodjovi
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of social capital (SC) on household resilience and well‐being in Togo, considering gender and location differences. Using data from the 2017 Regional Integrated Survey on Employment and the Informal Sector, three complementary econometric methods were applied, including propensity score matching, endogenous switching regression, and instrumental variable quantile regressions. The results show that access to SC improves household well‐being by strengthening resilience, although this effect varies by gender and location. SC benefits men in rural areas but has less impact on women. Public policies should promote civic engagement to maximize the positive effects of SC.
Rapid advancement of enteral nutrition and in‐hospital mortality in critically ill adults: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cho Jungwon , Shin Ahreum , Im Chami
Published: October 2024

Background

Early enteral nutrition (EN) initiation is recommended for intensive care unit (ICU) patients; however, the optimal rate of EN advancement remains unclear. We aimed to assess the association between EN advancement and in‐hospital mortality, as well as length of hospital stay.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study on 341 critically ill adults receiving EN between January 2021 and December 2023. The exposure of interest was rapid EN advancement, defined as an EN change exceeding the median value calculated between the first and seventh days after EN initiation. The comparator group included patients without rapid EN advancement. Factors related to in‐hospital mortality and length of hospital stay were assessed using multivariable logistic and linear regression analyses. Subgroup analyses were performed for EN initiation within 48 h of ICU admission.

Results

Rapid EN advancement reduced in‐hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.64, 95% CI 0.38–1.07, P = 0.092), although this was not statistically significant. However, rapid EN advancement significantly shortened hospital stay by 25 days (95% CI −25 to −9.2, P = 0.002). In the early EN initiation subgroup, rapid EN advancement significantly reduced in‐hospital mortality (adjusted OR = 0.42, P = 0.039) and shortened hospital stay by 48 days (95% CI −77 to −19, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Rapid EN advancement reduced in‐hospital mortality and length of hospital stay in critically ill patients, especially with early EN initiation. These findings could inform clinical practices that enhance timely and adequate nutrition therapy in ICUs. Further randomized controlled trials can help establish clinical guidelines.
Modification of gel properties of Meretrix meretrix (clam) with polysaccharides: physical characterization and interaction mechanism
Authors: Liu Jia‐Cheng , Zhang Lin‐Da , Liu Yue , Zhou Tian‐Qi , Lai Bin , Wang Ce , Yan Jia‐Nan , Wu Hai‐Tao
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the contribution of 11 polysaccharides (2%, w/w), including pectin (PC), κ‐carrageenan (KC), ι‐carrageenan (IC), gellan gum (GG), guar gum (GM), sodium alginate (SA), konjac gum (KG), gum arabic (GA), fucoidan (FC), locust bean gum (LBG), and curdlan (CD), to the gel and microstructural properties of Meretrix meretrix clam gel (MMG).

RESULTS

The hardness, springiness and chewiness of MMG with KC, IC, GG, SA and FC addition increased by ~10%–250%, while PC, GM, KG and LBG groups decreased by ~0.6% to 69%. KC, IC, SA, GG and FC decreased the cooking loss rate (CLR) by 69.4% to 88.7% and correspondingly enhanced the water holding capacity (WHC) by 10.2% to 21.4%, which was accompanied by an increased bound water and immobilized water area and high hydrogen proton density. The addition of KC transformed the MMG microstructure from a loose network with large pores to a compact, dense network, reducing lacunarity by 57.9%. The primary intermolecular forces in MMG with the incorporation of KC, IC, GG, SA and FC were hydrophobic interactions and disulfide bonds, which increased by 32.8%‐105.3% and 45.6%‐114.5% than MMG alone, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, KC, IC, GG, SA and FC could improve the gel properties of MMG and the strongest synergistic combination was found in the MMG/KC system. This study suggests that the incorporation of polysaccharides is a strategy with potential for modifying the gel properties of shellfish surimi products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Abnormal Lattice Shrinkage, Site Occupation, and Luminescent Properties of Cr3+‐Activated β‐Al2O3 Structure Phosphors
Authors: Zhu Hui , Li Yanan , Xi Yuexiang , Xin Chunli , Zhou Cheng , Yang Zhe , Ruan Lang , Li Yanyue , Peng Yao , Molokeev Maxim S. , Zolotov Andrey , Wang Jing , Zhou Zhi , Xia Mao
Published: October 2024

β‐Al2O3 phosphors show good optical properties for highly symmetric lattices and dense frameworks. Here, an abnormal lattice shrinkage phenomenon is found in BaMg1‐xZnxAl9.8O17: Cr3+ (BM1‐xZxA: Cr3+) phosphors, which can be attributed to the variation in the covalency of the chemical bond. Accordingly, the denser crystal structure caused by the abnormal shrinkage improves the luminescent intensity (67%↑) and the thermal stability (69%→76%@150 °C). Internal/external quantum efficiency (IQE/EQE) of BZA: 0.2Cr3+ reaches 95% and 52.7%, respectively. In addition, the preferential occupation of the Cr3+ ion is discussed through the crystal field strength calculation, low‐temperature spectra, and fluorescent lifetime. The unique spectrum of the phosphor derives from the occupation of Cr3+ on the octahedral sites (Al4 and Al1) and the formation of Cr3+‐Cr3+ coupling pairs. Finally, the high matching rate between the absorption curve of plant pigment Pfr and the EL spectrum of the as‐prepared pc‐LED expresses that it can be applied in plant lighting.
Topical Application of Dexamethasone‐Loaded Core‐Multishell Nanocarriers Against Oral Mucosal Inflammation.
Authors: Yapto Cynthia V , Rajes Keerthana , Inselmann Antonia , Staufenbiel Sven , Stolte Kim N , Witt Maren , Haag Rainer , Dommisch Henrik , Danker Kerstin
Published: October 2024

Topical treatment of oral inflammatory diseases is challenging due to the intrinsic physicochemical barriers of the mucosa and the continuous flow of saliva, which dilute drugs and limit their bioavailability. Nanocarrier technology can be an innovative approach to circumvent these problems and thus improve the efficacy of topical drug delivery to the mucosa. Core‐multishell (CMS) nanocarriers are putative delivery systems with high biocompatibility and the ability to adhere to and penetrate the oral mucosa. Ester‐based CMS nanocarriers release the anti‐inflammatory compound dexamethasone (Dx) more efficiently than a conventional cream. Mussel‐inspired functionalization of a CMS nanocarrier with catechol further improves the adhesion of the nanocarrier and may enhance the efficacy of the loaded drugs. In the present study, the properties of the ester‐based CMS 10‐E‐15‐350 nanocarrier (CMS‐NC) are further evaluated in comparison to the catechol‐functionalized variant (CMS‐C0.08). While the mucoadhesion of CMS‐NC is inhibited by saliva, CMS‐C0.08 exhibits better mucoadhesion in the presence of saliva. Due to the improved adhesion properties, CMS‐C0.08 loaded with dexamethasone (Dx‐CMS‐C0.08) shows a better anti‐inflammatory effect than Dx‐CMS‐NC when applied dynamically. These results highlight the superiority of CMS‐C0.08 over CMS‐NC as an innovative drug delivery system (DDS) for the treatment of oral mucosal diseases.
A configuration analysis of the driving path of corporate physical investments: Necessary condition analysis and qualitative comparative analysis based on fuzzy sets
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhao Hongyan
Published: October 2024

Corporate physical investments are an important foundation for sustainable economic development. This study investigates the causal relationships and complex mechanisms of the five antecedent conditions under the “Merger–Organization–Environment” (MOE) framework with corporate physical investments. These antecedent conditions include green mergers and acquisitions (M&A), financing constraints, main business performance, corporate governance capacities, and government environmental concerns. Combining the necessary condition analysis and fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis, a sample of 40 heavily polluting listed enterprises in China's A‐share market from 2016 to 2020 is used. The results found that (1) individual antecedent conditions do not constitute the necessary conditions for corporate physical investments; (2) there are four configurations that generate high corporate physical investments, i.e., proactive change‐oriented type, main business focus‐oriented type, performance‐driven oriented type, and passive change‐oriented type; and (3) there are four configurations that generate non‐high corporate physical investments, i.e., performance‐bound type, funding‐bound type, M&A‐bound type, and strategically bound type. This demonstrates the asymmetry of the configurations that generate high and non‐high corporate physical investments, which helps to formulate incentives for corporate physical investments from multiple perspectives.
Drivers of sub‐seasonal extreme rainfall and their representation in ECMWF forecasts during the Eastern African March‐to‐May seasons of 2018–2020
Authors: Gudoshava Masilin , Nyinguro Patricia , Talib Joshua , Wainwright Caroline , Mwanthi Anthony , Hirons Linda , de Andrade Felipe , Mutemi Joseph , Gitau Wilson , Thompson Elisabeth , Gacheru Jemimah , Marsham John , Endris Hussen Seid , Woolnough Steven , Segele Zewdu , Atheru Zachary , Artan Guleid
Published: October 2024

In recent years, Eastern Africa has been severely impacted by extreme climate events such as droughts and flooding. In a region where people's livelihoods are heavily dependent on climate conditions, extreme hydrometeorological events can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. For example, suppressed rainfall during the March to May 2019 rainy season led to substantial food insecurity. In order to enhance preparedness against forecasted extreme events, it is critical to assess rainfall predictions and their known drivers in forecast models. In this study, we take a case study approach and evaluate drivers during March to May seasons of 2018, 2019 and 2020. We use observations, reanalysis and predictions from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) to identify and evaluate rainfall drivers. Extreme rainfall during March to May 2018 and 2020 was associated with an active Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) in Phases 1–4, or/and a tropical cyclone to the east of Madagascar. On the other hand, the dry 2019 March to May MAM season, which included a delayed rainfall onset, was associated with tropical cyclones to the west of Madagascar. In general, whilst ECMWF forecasts correctly capture temporal variations in anomalous rainfall, they generally underestimate rainfall intensities. Further analysis shows that underestimated rainfall is linked to a weak forecasted MJO and errors in the location and intensity of tropical cyclones. Taking a case study approach motivates further study to determine the best application of our understanding of rainfall drivers. Communicated effectively, knowledge of rainfall drivers and forecast uncertainty will inform preparedness actions and reduce climate‐driven social and economic consequences.
Identification of spatio‐temporal patterns in extreme rainfall events in the Tropical Andes: A clustering analysis approach
Authors: Urgilés Gabriela , Célleri Rolando , Bendix Jörg , Orellana‐Alvear Johanna
Published: October 2024

High spatio‐temporal variability is a characteristic of extreme rainfall. In mountainous regions like the Tropical Andes, where intricate orography and mesoscale atmospheric dynamics greatly impact rainfall systems, this particularly holds for mountain areas like the Tropical Andes. Thus, the absence of operational rainfall monitoring networks with high spatio‐temporal resolution has imposed difficulties for a proper analysis of extreme rainfall events in the Ecuadorian Andes. Nowhere, we present our improved knowledge on rainfall extremes based on newly available rainfall radar data of this region. In our study we employ a clustering approach to identify types of extreme rainfall events and analyze their spatio‐temporal characteristics. Based on 3 years of data obtained from an X‐band scanning weather radar data, the study was conducted in the southern Ecuadorian Tropical Andes at 4450 m a.s.l. By applying a rainfall threshold, 67 extreme rainfall events were selected. The rainfall characteristics of each extreme rainfall event, such as the amount of rain, its duration, its hour, and month of occurrence were determined and used as input variables of a k‐means clustering analysis to group the events into different classes. The result revealed three main classes of extreme rainfall events. The first class is characterized by highest rain intensity and lowest duration. The second class is characterized by its month of occurrence, during the first 5 months of the year. The third class showed lowest rain intensity and highest duration mainly occurred at higher elevations. The typology of events advances our understanding of the spatio‐temporal characteristics of extreme rainfall in the Tropical Andes.
A preliminary observational study on the characteristics of surface turbulent fluxes over the South China Sea Islands
Authors: Zhou Qianjin , Li Lei , Chan Pak Wai , Gao Zhongming , Huang Xiaodong , Ouyang Xiwen , Fan Shaojia
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been a rise in human activities in oceanic areas, making the land–atmosphere interactions over islands a major scientific concern on a global scale. Examining the observation data from offshore areas enables a more comprehensive understanding of the turbulent fluxes in offshore atmospheric environments, patterns of momentum, energy and material exchange between the atmosphere and underlying surface in an oceanic boundary layer, and development of a heterogeneous atmospheric boundary layer. The related findings will assist in developing theoretical models and parameterization schemes to simulate the influence of heterogeneous surfaces on land–atmosphere interactions on the South China Sea Islands. Existing studies on the turbulent fluxes over the South China Sea Islands were mainly conducted on the Nansha Islands, whereas studies on the waters of the South China Sea are scarce. In this study, we used 10 Hz high‐frequency turbulence measurements to calculate the latent and sensible heat fluxes over the South China Sea Islands using the eddy correlation method. These findings were then compared with data from the Dunhuang Gobi, Ordos desert, and Xilingol grassland regions in inland China, along with the observed net radiation and surface heat fluxes. The findings indicate that the energy fluxes over the South China Sea in summer exhibit prominent diurnal variations. The magnitude of either latent or soil heat flux is low, and the net radiation is predominantly transformed into sensible heat flux, which warms the atmosphere. Furthermore, the daily variation curves of sensible and latent heat fluxes are influenced by intermittent turbulence on the islands and reefs, resulting in a less smooth pattern compared with soil heat flux. Although the South China Sea Islands have small land areas and are surrounded by the sea, the land–atmosphere interactions over the underlying surface of this region are similar to those over the underlying surface of grasslands in inland China during summer. The daily mean sensible heat flux on the islands is higher than that in an inland area, and the time lag in its response to sunrise is longer than that in inland areas by approximately 1 h. The overall energy balance ratio is approximately 0.75, c which is in line with the average level, but an energy balance residual of approximately 25% still exists. Furthermore, extreme weather conditions, such as typhoons, can disrupt the diurnal variations of sensible and latent heat fluxes, and the cyclical patterns are subsequently restored.
RAND examines pluses, minuses of LA county diversion program
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2024

A new RAND report examining a Los Angeles County court diversion has not only revealed some strengths in the program, such as rapid diversion compared with mental health diversion, but some program challenges as well, including difficulties in linking clients to services and service gaps for certain populations.
Fast 3D31P B1+ mapping with a weighted stack of spiral trajectory at 7 T
Authors: Widmaier Mark Stephan , Kaiser Antonia , Baup Salomé , Wenz Daniel , Pierzchała Katarzyna , Xiao Ying , Huang Zhiwei , Jiang Yun , Xin Lijing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Phosphorus MRS (31P MRS) enables noninvasive assessment of energy metabolism, yet its application is hindered by sensitivity limitations. To overcome this, often high magnetic fields are used, leading to challenges such as spatial inhomogeneity and therefore the need for accurate flip‐angle determination in accelerated acquisitions with short TRs. In response to these challenges, we propose a novel short TR and look‐up table–based double‐angle method for fast 3D 31P mapping (fDAM).

Methods

Our method incorporates 3D weighted stack‐of‐spiral gradient‐echo acquisitions and a frequency‐selective pulse to enable efficient mapping based on the phosphocreatine signal at 7 T. Protocols were optimized using simulations and validated through phantom experiments. The method was validated in the human brain using a 31P 1Ch‐trasmit/32Ch‐receive coil and skeletal muscle using a birdcage 1H/31P volume coil.

Results

The results of fDAM were compared with the classical DAM. A good correlation (r = 0.95) was obtained between the two maps. A 3D 31P mapping in the human calf muscle was achieved in about 10:50 min using a birdcage volume coil, with a 20% extended coverage (number of voxels with SNR > 3) relative to that of the classical DAM (24 min). fDAM also enabled the first full‐brain coverage 31P 3D mapping in approximately 10:15 min using a 1Ch‐transmit/32Ch‐receive coil.

Conclusion

fDAM is an efficient method for 31P 3D mapping, showing promise for future applications in rapid 31P MRSI.
Development and Validation of a Nocturnal Hypoglycaemia Risk Model for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gong Chen , Cai Tingting , Wang Ying , Xiong Xuelian , Zhou Yunfeng , Zhou Tingting , Sun Qi , Huang Huiqun
Published: October 2024

Aim

To develop and test different machine learning algorithms for predicting nocturnal hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Design

A retrospective study.

Methods

We collected data from dynamic blood glucose monitoring of patients with T2DM admitted to the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at a hospital in Shanghai, China, from November 2020 to January 2022. Patients undergone the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for ≥ 24 h were included in this study. Logistic regression, random forest and light gradient boosting machine algorithms were employed, and the models were validated and compared using AUC, accuracy, specificity, recall rate, precision, F1 score and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test.

Results

A total of 4015 continuous glucose‐monitoring data points from 440 patients were included, and 28 variables were selected to build the risk prediction model. The 440 patients had an average age of 62.7 years. Approximately 48.2% of the patients were female and 51.8% were male. Nocturnal hypoglycaemia appeared in 573 (14.30%) of 4015 continuous glucose monitoring data. The light gradient boosting machine model demonstrated the highest predictive performances: AUC (0.869), specificity (0.802), accuracy (0.801), precision (0.409), recall rate (0.797), F1 score (0.255) and Kolmogorov (0.603). The selected predictive factors included time below the target glucose range, duration of diabetes, insulin use before bed and dynamic blood glucose monitoring parameters from the previous day.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Using surrogate models to accelerate load step methods for nonlinear finite element problems in hyperelasticity
Authors: Fesefeldt Lina , Le Borne Sabine , Düster Alexander , Radtke Lars
Published: October 2024

Finite element methods for displacement problems in hyperelasticity lead to systems of nonlinear equations. These equations are usually solved with Newton's method or a related method. The convergence of Newton's method depends heavily on the proximity of the initial guess to the numerical solution. Load step methods overcome problems with divergence by applying the load in increments, leading to a sequence of sub‐problems with initial guesses closer to the numerical solution of each sub‐problem, supporting the convergence. The downside of this approach is the high computational effort needed to solve the load steps. Based on a benchmark problem in high‐order FEM, we extend traditional load step methods to a new approach exploiting the hierarchical basis used for the spatial discretization of the problem and saving up to 50% of computation time (vs. benchmark).
Sparsity comparison of polytopal finite element methods
Authors: Lehrenfeld Christoph , Stocker Paul , Zienecker Maximilian
Published: October 2024

In this work we compare crucial parameters for efficiency of different finite element methods for solving partial differential equations  on polytopal meshes. We consider the virtual element method (VEM) and different discontinuous Galerkin (DG) methods, namely, the Hybrid DG and Trefftz DG methods. The VEM is a conforming method, that can be seen as a generalization of the classic finite element method to arbitrary polytopal meshes. DG methods are non‐conforming methods that offer high flexibility, but also come with high computational costs. Hybridization reduces these costs by introducing additional facet variables, onto which the computational costs can be transferred to. Trefftz DG methods achieve a similar reduction in complexity by selecting a special and smaller set of basis functions on each element. The association of computational costs to different geometrical entities (elements or facets) leads to differences in the performance of these methods on different grid types. This paper aims to compare the dependency of these approaches across different grid configurations.
Exploring reward shaping in discrete and continuous action spaces: A deep reinforcement learning study on Turtlebot3
Authors: Nath Aswin , Oveisi Atta , Pal Amit Kumar , Nestorović Tamara
Published: October 2024

In robotics, reinforcement learning can train controllers or agents to find optimal solutions for complex tasks by enabling the robot to interact repeatedly with the environment. The reward function is an important aspect that guides any reinforcement algorithm to find the desired solution successfully. This work examines two deep reinforcement learning approaches, one uses a Deep Q‐Network(DQN) and the other a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm, applicable to navigation tasks for mobile robots. Comparison between different reward schemes for both algorithms is one of the main focuses in this work. The methodology is implemented in the simulation for a mobile robot called TurtleBot3. The task for the robot is to navigate through obstacles from an initial location to a goal position. Finally, the trained end‐to‐end navigation stack is also implemented on the actual TurtleBot3 in a real environment. The robot uses a Lidar sensor to detect obstacles. The Lidar measurements and the relative position and angle of the robot to the target location are the inputs to the controller. The TurtleBot3 also utilizes distance information from its Lidar sensor to create an environmental map using the simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technique. Additionally, given an initial position, the robot employs its inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor and encoders for precise localization.
Greater impact of COVID‐19 on peer‐supported addiction services than government‐owned services for addiction in Japan: A nationwide 3‐year longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Katayama Munenori , Fujishiro Sou , Sugiura Kanna , Konishi Jun , Inada Ken , Shirakawa Norihito , Matsumoto Toshihiko
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study aims to investigate how the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic impacted service provision of peer‐supported addiction services, such as self‐help groups or recovery houses and government‐owned addiction healthcare services, in Japan, as well as the quality of their interaction.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to all 69 public regional healthcare facilities (Mental Health and Welfare Centers [MHWCs]) across the 47 prefectures of Japan annually from 2021 to 2023, totaling three surveys. The survey asked about: (1) the current status of addiction healthcare services at each center, (2) the current status of peer‐supported addiction services within each center's area, and (3) changes in connectivity between centers and peer‐supported addiction services.

Results

All 69 centers participated in the survey each year. Following the second year of the pandemic, both MHWCs and peer‐supported services experienced service closures and restrictions; however, peer‐supported services were notably more affected nationwide, such as downsizing of services, decreased number of users, shortage of operation funds, and inability to connect with other services being widely reported (p < 0.0001). Despite the easing of most restrictions by the fourth year, MHWCs in 18 out of 47 prefectures reported at least one sustained negative impact on their service provision, while peer‐supported services struggled to recover, with 40 out of 47 prefectures still observing difficulties.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly affected both types of service, with peer‐supported services facing greater challenges in recovery. Additional support is essential to restore these services to normal operation.
A Molecular Dynamics Modeling Framework for Shape Memory Vitrimers
Authors: Wick Collin D. , Peters Andrew J. , Li Guoqiang
Published: October 2024

Vitrimers with self‐healing, recycling, and remolding capabilities are changing the paradigm for thermoset polymer design. In the past several years, vitrimers that exhibit shape memory effects and are curable by ultraviolet (UV) light have made significant progress in the realm of 4D printing. Herein, we report a molecular dynamics (MD) modeling framework to model UV curable shape memory vitrimers. We used our framework and compared our modeling results with one UV curable shape memory vitrimer found in the literature, bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate. The comparison showed reasonable agreement between the modeling and experimental results in terms of thermomechanical and shape memory properties, along with self‐healing efficiency. It was found that during recycling, it was important for the network to percolate through a majority of the system to get reasonably high recovery stress and recycling efficiency. Once this was achieved, a topological descriptor that was found to represent the compactness of the network was identified as having a very high correlation with recovery stress and recycling efficiency for networks that percolated 70% or more of the monomers in a system.
Coping Strategies of Patients With Advanced Lung or Colorectal Cancer Over Time: Insights From the International ACTION Study
Authors: Luu K. L. , Mager P. , Nieboer D. , Witkamp F. E. , Jabbarian L. J. , Payne S. , Groenvold M. , Pollock K. , Miccinesi G. , Deliens L. , van Delden J. J. M. , van der Heide A. , Korfage I. J. , Rietjens J. A. C. ,   the ACTION Consortium
Published: October 2024

Objective

A comprehensive understanding of coping strategies of patients with advanced diseases can contribute to providing supportive care that meets patients' needs. However, insight into how coping of this population develops over time is lacking. We examined coping strategies of patients with advanced cancer over time and identified distinct trajectories and their predictors.

Methods

Data from 675 patients of the control group from the ACTION cluster‐randomized trial were analyzed. Patients with lung or colorectal cancer from six European countries (Belgium, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Slovenia and the United Kingdom) completed questionnaires at baseline, 12 and 20 weeks. Measures included Denial, Acceptance, and Problem‐focused coping (COPE, Brief COPE inventory; scores 4–16 per scale). We used linear mixed models to analyze the data and latent class mixed models to identify stable (within patient change < 2) coping strategies.

Results

At baseline, patients reported low use of Denial (6.6) and greater use of Acceptance (12.6) and Problem‐Focused coping (12.2). These scores did not significantly change. We found four distinct trajectories for the use of Denial, three for Acceptance and five for Problem‐Focused coping strategies. Stable trajectories were found in 513 (77%) patients for Denial, 645 (96%) for Acceptance and 602 (91%) for Problem‐Focused coping. All coping strategies were stable in 447 (68%) patients and two were stable in 181 patients (28%).

Conclusions

Overall, the use of coping strategies was rather stable in the majority of patients with advanced cancer. However, for each of the coping strategies subgroups of patients reported fluctuating coping trajectories.
One‐Step Nitrogen Fixation by a Magnetic Field Stabilized Glow Discharge (MSGD) With Ethanol Solution and Nitrogen
Authors: Liu Y. , Li Z. , Yang L. , Nie L. , Liu D. , Lu X.
Published: October 2024

This article presents a one‐step nitrogen fixation (NF) process using ethanol solution and nitrogen as raw materials and a magnetic field stabilized glow discharge (MSGD) as a plasma reactor, in which the plasma is stabilized at a fixed position under the opposing forces of the Lorentz force and airflow. Compared to deionized water, the participation of ethanol promotes the generation of NH3 and NOx. This is because the addition of ethanol not only serves as a source of hydrogen but also facilitates the generation of OH, which further reacts to produce NO through , thereby increasing NOx concentration and reducing energy consumption. Additionally, with an increase in ethanol volume fraction, the concentration of NF products also increases, reaching saturation when the ethanol volume fraction reaches 50%. At an ethanol volume fraction of 50%, the energy consumption for NF is lowest at a discharge current of 40 mA, at approximately 4.92 MJ/mol. The range of the reduced electric field strength of MSGD is calculated to be approximately 31.9 ~ 39.7 Td, at which about 90% of the electrical energy is converted into N2(v) vibrational states. At this point, NO is primarily formed by the Zeldovich mechanism (), which is the main reason for the lower energy consumption of NF in MSGD compared with the other two scenarios (opposite magnetic field and no magnetic field). Finally, the lower energy consumption of MSGD compared with the other two scenarios is discussed, highlighting that this is mainly due to its high gas utilization rate, high N2 vibrational energy, and high electrical energy utilization efficiency.
Salidroside improves blood–brain barrier integrity and cognitive function in hypobaric hypoxia mice by inhibiting microglia activation through GSK3β
Authors: Zhang Xianxie , Zhang Huiting , Liu Zuoxu , Huang Tianke , Yi Ru , Ma Zengchun , Gao Yue
Published: October 2024

Salidroside, an active component found in Rhodiola rosea L., has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of hypoxic brain injury, while the precise target and mechanism of salidroside were remain unclear. The study utilized techniques such as network pharmacology, transcriptome sequencing to investigate the mechanism and target of salidroside in regulating blood–brain barrier (BBB) function to protect hypoxic brain injury in vivo. Utilized macromolecular docking and molecular biology techniques to explore the molecular mechanism of salidroside in alleviating brain injury induced by hypoxia in BV2 cell model. The results show that salidroside alleviated the learning and memory dysfunction and pathological injury in mice exposed to hypobaric hypoxia, reduced brain water content and attenuate the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, effectively reversed S100β in serum and promoted the repair of BBB. GSK3β is an important therapeutic target of salidroside in the treatment of hypoxic cognitive impairment, and salidroside can specifically bind GSK3β in the ATP binding pocket, inducing the phosphorylation of GSK3β, targeting downstream Nrf‐2 to regulate microglia activity, promoting the accumulation of β‐catenin, thereby inhibiting microglial activation, improving the BBB integrity injury and achieving a neuroprotective effect. This study demonstrates that salidroside can inhibit the activation of microglia by inducing GSK3β phosphorylation, achieve neuroprotective effects and alleviate learning and memory dysfunction in hypobaric hypoxia mice. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development of salidroside and the clinical application of Rhodiola rosea L.
Artificial neural networks in automatic image classifications of cloud from ground‐based observations using deep learning models
Authors: Kopeć Szymon , Duniec Grzegorz , Bochenek Bogdan , Figurski Mariusz
Published: October 2024

Cloud classification is a critical task in meteorology, with applications in weather forecasting, climate modelling, and environmental monitoring. Traditionally, cloud observations are made visually by experienced observers, which can introduce human errors and inconsistencies. This study aims to develop accurate deep learning models for automated cloud classification from ground‐based images. A dataset of over 200,000 cloud photographs was collected from professional observers at meteorological stations of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management–National Research Institute. The images were preprocessed and annotated with cloud type labels. Convolutional neural networks and transformer models were employed for feature extraction, combined with multilayer perceptrons for classification. Different architectures were explored, including ResNet, EfficientNet, Vision Transformers, and their variants. Hyperparameter tuning and data augmentation techniques like RandAugment were applied to improve generalisation. The best‐performing model achieved 97.4% accuracy for classifying four common cloud genera: cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and clear sky. Additional experiments classified up to 11 genera, with accuracy decreasing as complexity increased, due to data limitations. Error analysis revealed confusions between visually similar classes. While promising, limitations exist from using partial cloud views versus whole‐sky imagery. We start with four classes and end with 11 classes, progressively showing subsequent errors in the cloud genera classification process, something not presented in other publications. Future work involves collecting a more balanced dataset with standardised protocols. Integration of all‐sky cameras could help address current restrictions. This research demonstrates the viability of deep learning for automated cloud observation, with opportunities to advance meteorological applications through continued methodological refinement.
Captodative Versus Push‐Pull Aromatic Cyclopentadienyl Derivatives
Authors: Shainyan B. A.
Published: October 2024

The problem of whether and how the captodative aromatic systems with the donor and acceptor substituents at the same carbon atom of the C=C bond can be more stable than the π‐conjugated push‐pull counterparts with the two substituents in the vicinal position is analyzed for cyclopentadienyl derivatives possessing an aromatic cyclopentadienyl ring. The analysis of electronic, magnetic, and structural criteria of aromaticity showed that among typical organic donors, such as amines NR3, ethers R2O, guanidine (NH2)2C=NH, siloxane O(SiH3)2, silatrane, the captodative isomers [cyclopentadienylium]−C(X+) = CH2 can be more stable than their push‐pull isomeric counterparts [cyclopentadienylium]−—CH=CH—X+. The largest energy difference in favor of the former was found to be ca. 13 kcal/mol for X = NH=C(NH2)2.
State Transfer in Noisy Modular Quantum Networks
Authors: Hahto Markku , Piilo Jyrki , Nokkala Johannes
Published: October 2024

Quantum state transfer is the act of transferring quantum information from one system in a quantum network to another without physically transporting carriers of quantum information, but instead engineering a Hamiltonian such that the state of the sender is transferred to the receiver through the dynamics of the whole network. A generalization of quantum state transfer called quantum routing concerns simultaneous transfers between multiple pairs in a quantum network, imposing limitations on its structure. This study considers transfer of Gaussian states over noisy quantum networks with modular structure, which have been identified as a suitable platform for quantum routing. Two noise models are compared, affecting either the network topology or the network constituents, studying their effects on both the transfer fidelities and the network properties. The two models are found to affect different features of the network allowing for the identification and quantification of the noise. These features are then used as a guide toward different strategies for the compensation of the noise, and to examine how the compensation strategies perform. The results show that in general, modular networks are more robust to noise than monolithic ones.
Effects of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Physical Performance and Muscle Strength in Older People—A Systematic Review
Authors: Renji Rebecca , Robinson Sian M. , Witham Miles D.
Published: October 2024

Background

Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle strength and mass with age, is a major cause of morbidity for older people. Dietary nitrate supplementation has been proposed as an intervention to improve skeletal muscle function via action as nitric oxide (NO) donors. However, the effect of nitrate supplementation on physical performance and muscle strength in older people is unclear. We aimed to systematically review evidence on whether dietary nitrate supplementation improves markers of muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance in older people.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of randomised controlled trials according to a prespecified protocol by two reviewers. We included interventional studies using dietary nitrate supplementation, mean participant age of >60 years, with or without muscle weakness. Outcomes of interest were physical performance, muscle strength and muscle mass. Risk of bias was assessed using a modified version of the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results were grouped by intervention and outcome measures and were described by narrative synthesis.

Results

Twenty‐eight studies were included, with a size range of 8–72 participants. Intervention duration ranged from a single dose to 12 weeks. Seven studies were in healthy older people. Most studies had a high or unclear risk of bias; three had a low risk of bias. One‐hundred‐two outcomes were reported; 67 were related to physical performance, and 35 were related to muscle strength. No included study measured muscle mass. Thirty‐three outcomes showed significant improvement, two showed significant worsening and 67 showed no statistically significant difference. Meta‐analysis was not possible due to data heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses for different doses of nitrate (above or below 10 mmol nitrate per day), duration of treatment or specific commonly measured outcomes did not indicate any subgroup more likely to show positive results. The proportion of positive outcomes was similar in studies using beetroot extract, nitrate alone or exercise as a co‐intervention.

Conclusions

Current evidence is insufficient to decide if dietary nitrate supplementation improves skeletal muscle function in older people. Future studies should be longer, larger and target older people with sarcopenia or frailty.
Node Centrality Inference via Hypothesis Testing
Authors: He Zengyou , Lou Jun , Liu Yan , Hu Lianyu , Jiang Mudi
Published: October 2024

Central nodes, also known as vital or critical nodes, play a unique role in networks of various domains. To date, numerous centrality evaluation methods have been proposed to identify central nodes from different types of networks. However, most of existing methods did not address this issue from a rigorous significance testing perspective. As a result, it is hard for us to judge whether an identified central node is true or not and control the quality of reported nodes in a statistically sound manner. In this paper, we propose a centrality evaluation method based on hypothesis testing, where the test statistic is the degree sum of the neighbors of the node. We further derive an analytical p value and its upper bound under the Erdös–Rényi model, which can be employed as the centrality score for vital node recognition. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our method, extensive experiments are conducted on both simulated and real networks. The experimental results show that (1) our testing‐based centrality measure in terms of p value is capable of distinguishing central nodes from non‐central ones effectively and (2) our method is able to identify central nodes more accurately than those classic centrality measures and state‐of‐the‐art (SOTA) centrality evaluation methods.