bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in internal migration in Japan, 2012–2020: The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kotsubo Masaki , Nakaya Tomoki
Published: November 2022

In the past 10 years or so, there have been growing concerns in Japan that migration trends, such as large in‐migration to the Tokyo metropolitan area (TMA) at the national scale and large movements from the suburbs to the centres at the metropolitan scale, have widened the core–periphery disparities at each scale under national population decline. However, the COVID‐19 pandemic led to unexpected changes in these migration patterns, such as a weakened population concentration in the TMA. This study aims to examine internal migration trends from 2012, on axes of core–periphery in Japan and centre–suburbs in metropolitan areas, and the changes in the migration patterns caused by the pandemic in 2020. First, we prepared intermunicipal origin–destination tables by estimating the suppressed flows in 2012–2020 using the iterative proportional fitting technique, and then we calculated the net migration and migration efficiency indices based on seven area types: centre and suburbs of the TMA, centres and suburbs of major metropolitan areas, centres and suburbs of other metropolitan areas and nonmetropolitan areas. The results indicate that the 2020 migration efficiency in the centre of the TMA drastically dropped to the lowest level during the study period, contrasting with an upward trend in 2012–2019. The pandemic strongly affected the migration patterns from/to and within the TMA, with much net gain in the suburbs from the centre, but the impact of migration efficiencies among the other areas was minimal. These findings can help in providing direction for the postpandemic policy challenge of spatial planning in Japan, for example, the weakened but still widening disparities between the TMA and the other regions and the renewed threat of urban sprawl caused by the increased migration from the centre to the suburbs within the TMA.
Evaluation of machine learning methods for covariate data imputation in pharmacometrics
Authors: Bräm Dominic Stefan , Nahum Uri , Atkinson Andrew , Koch Gilbert , Pfister Marc
Published: November 2022

Missing data create challenges in clinical research because they lead to loss of statistical power and potentially to biased results. Missing covariate data must be handled with suitable approaches to prepare datasets for pharmacometric analyses, such as population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses. To this end, various statistical methods have been widely adopted. Here, we introduce two machine‐learning (ML) methods capable of imputing missing covariate data in a pharmacometric setting. Based on a previously published pharmacometric analysis, we simulated multiple missing data scenarios. We compared the performance of four established statistical methods, listwise deletion, mean imputation, standard multiple imputation (hereafter “Norm”), and predictive mean matching (PMM) and two ML based methods, random forest (RF) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), to handle missing covariate data in a statistically plausible manner. The investigated ML‐based methods can be used to impute missing covariate data in a pharmacometric setting. Both traditional imputation approaches and ML‐based methods perform well in the scenarios studied, with some restrictions for individual methods. The three methods exhibiting the best performance in terms of least bias for the investigated scenarios are the statistical method PMM and the two ML‐based methods RF and ANN. ML‐based approaches had comparable good results to the best performing established method PMM. Furthermore, ML methods provide added flexibility when encountering more complex nonlinear relationships, especially when associated parameters are suitably tuned to enhance predictive performance.
Ultranarrow Band UV Detection in GaN with Simple Device Architecture
Authors: Chatterjee Abhishek , Khamari Shailesh K. , Kumar Ravi , Porwal Sanjay , Bose Aniruddha , Raghavendra S. , Dixit Vijay Kumar , Sharma Tarun Kumar
Published: November 2022

An ultranarrow‐band ultraviolet (UV) GaN detector with a simple device architecture is presented. The device displays an ultranarrow band response centred at 366 nm with only ≈5 nm width, a UV–visible rejection ratio of >2 × 103, and detectivity of 1.3 × 1010 Jones at room temperature. The device is tested over a wide temperature range where the maximum response is recorded at 200 K. Temperature dependence of device response is explained by considering the thermal activation of shallow donors in low‐temperature regime and the establishment of thermal equilibrium of the donor level with conduction band at elevated temperatures. Moreover, the device displays three orders UV‐to‐visible rejection ratio over a wide temperature range of 150–350 K, showing great potential for narrowband UV detection even at elevated temperatures. Conventional and pump‐probe surface photovoltage spectroscopy measurements are performed with UV and infrared lasers to identify the electronic transitions associated with the narrowband response. It is understood that carrier excitation from valance band to shallow donor level in the interfacial depletion region is responsible for the observed behavior. The results presented here demonstrate an innovative methodology for achieving a stable and high spectrum‐selective UV photodetection without involving complex device architecture.
The accuracy of a novel self‐tapping bone fiducial marker for frameless robot‐assisted stereo‐electro‐encephalography implantation and registration techniques
Authors: Liu Qiangqiang , Mao Ziyu , Wang Junjie , Wang Changquan , Chen Wenze , Chen Wenzhen , Ye Xiaolai , Zhang Chencheng , Lu Yong , Xu Jiwen
Published: November 2022

Background

We aimed to evaluate the accuracy and safety of a novel self‐tapping bone fiducial as a registration technique for stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) implantation.

Methods

Each patient was installed with five bone fiducial markers. All procedures were performed using the same Sinovation robot system. The accuracy was determined by calculating the target point error (TPE) and the entry point error (EPE) of electrodes.

Results

Fourteen patients underwent SEEG implantation surgery; and the average installation time of the markers per patient was 86.1 s. In the operating theatre, the average registration time was 206.6 s, and the average registration error was 0.18 mm. The average TPE of 174 electrodes was 1.98 mm and the average EPE was 0.88 mm.

Conclusion

Our study provided a bone fiducial marker installation and registration technique that was convenient and fast, highly accurate in registration, and highly tolerated by patients.
Influence of growth temperature on microstructural and electromagnetic properties of nickel thin films
Authors: Rizwan Muhammad Nawaz , Kalyar Mazhar Ali , Anwar ul Haq Muhammad , Bell Chris , Makhdoom Ata ur Rehman
Published: November 2022

Nickel thin films were grown on quartz substrates in ultra‐high vacuum at laser fluence of 98 J/cm2 using pulsed laser deposition. Effects of substrate temperature on the electromagnetic properties of the films were investigated. XRD data reveal crystalline growth at substrate temperature (Ts) of 500°C. Roughness of the thin films at Ts of 100°C was noted as 8 nm which was decreased to 3 nm at 500°C. Coercive field and electrical resistivity were decreased from 10 to 5 mT and 0.71 to 0.064 μΩ‐m, respectively, at higher substrate temperature. Magnetoresistance for both modes of configuration and Hall mobility were decreased, while carrier density and Hall coefficient showed opposite behavior with increased substrate temperature.
Self‐Healable Metallogels for Selective Dye Adsorption
Authors: Dutta Mita , Karan Chandan Kumar , Bhattacharjee Manish
Published: November 2022

The low molecular weight gelator, disodium L‐(3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2‐hydroxy‐benzyl)amino aspartic acid (Na2HL), has been used to prepare three metal‐organic hydrogels (metallogel) with the metal ions Ni2+ (MOG 1), Co2+ (MOG 2), and VO2+ (MOG 3). The gels have been prepared by mixing the aqueous solutions (0.5 mL) of the Na2HL(0.01 to 0.05 mmol) and M(CH3COO)2⋅4H2O {M=Ni or Co} or VO(SO)4⋅H2O (0.01 to 0.05 mmol). The gels have been characterized by IR spectroscopic studies, MALDI TOF spectrometry and various microscopic studies. All the gels are multi‐responsive in nature to different external stimuli, and among them, MOG 1 and MOG‐2 show the self‐healable property indicating a strong metal‐ligand interaction and hydrogen bonding interactions in the gel network. The thixotropic behavior and viscoelastic nature of the self‐healable metallogels have been confirmed by time dependent step‐strain experiment at room temperature. It was observed that MOG 1 shows rapid and more efficient selective dye adsorption of cationic dyes, rhodamine B (RhB) {61.7 mg g−1}, and malachite green (MG) {15.3 mg g−1} from mixtures of cationic, anionic dyes, and neutral dyes. MOG 2 also selectively adsorb cationic dyes from the mixture of dyes. The gel, MOG 3, selectively degrades fluorescein (FL) dye.
Stronger together: Country‐of‐origin agglomeration and multinational enterprise location choice in an adverse institutional environment
Authors: Li Yong , Li Jing , Zhang Peng , Gwon Sunhwan
Published: November 2022

Research Summary

Research suggests that multinational enterprises (MNEs) are attracted to locations with concentrated firms from the same home country to benefit from interactions with market forces, but it remains an open question whether such agglomeration facilitates MNEs' interactions with nonmarket actors such as the host government. We submit that since country‐of‐origin agglomeration can enable collective actions and create collective gains, colocation with compatriot firms will help MNEs navigate an adverse institutional environment. In line with this reasoning, we hypothesize that MNEs are more attracted to locations with country‐of‐origin agglomeration when MNEs face an exogenous shock that increases their regulatory burden in the host country. Our analysis offers corroborative evidence. The study adds to research on agglomeration, institutional environment, and location strategy.

Managerial Summary

Why do multinational enterprises (MNEs) locate near compatriot firms in a foreign location? The commonly recognized benefits include resource access and knowledge spillover from interactions with market forces such as suppliers and customers. We submit that colocation with compatriot firms can also help MNEs navigate an adverse institutional environment by generating “stronger‐together” benefits. Colocation can enable collective actions and create collective gains for MNEs in their interactions with the host government. We find that after a diplomatic dispute, Korean MNEs are more attracted to locations in China that already have a cluster of Korean firms, whether in the same/related industries or in unrelated industries; this is particularly the case for small MNEs and in locations with weak institutions.
Cascade Catalytically Released Nitric Oxide‐Driven Nanomotor with Enhanced Penetration for Antibiofilm
Authors: Zheng Jia , Wang Wei , Gao Xinyu , Zhao Senfeng , Chen Wansong , Li Jianghua , Liu You‐Nian
Published: November 2022

Nanodrugs are becoming increasingly important in the treatment of bacterial infection, but their low penetration ability to bacterial biofilm is still the main challenge hindering their therapeutic effect. Herein, nitric oxide (NO)‐driven nanomotor based on L‐arginine (L‐Arg) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) loaded dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (AG‐DMSNs) is fabricated. AG‐DMSNs have the characteristics of cascade catalytic reaction, where glucose is first catalyzed by the asymmetrically distributed AuNPs with their glucose oxidase (GOx)‐ mimic property, which results in unilateral production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Then, L‐Arg is oxidized by the produced H2O2 to release NO, leading to the self‐propelled movement. It is found that the active movement of nanomotor promotes the AG‐DMSNs ability to penetrate biofilm, thus achieving good biofilm clearance in vitro. More importantly, AG‐DMSNs nanomotor can eliminate the biofilm of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vivo without causing damage to normal tissues. This nanomotor provides a new platform for the treatment of bacterial infections.
The Mechanism of Li Deposition on the Cu Substrates in the Anode‐Free Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Lai Genming , Jiao Junyu , Fang Chi , Jiang Yao , Sheng Liyuan , Xu Bo , Ouyang Chuying , Zheng Jiaxin
Published: November 2022

Due to the rapid growth in the demand for high‐energy‐density Lithium (Li) batteries and insufficient global Li reserves, the anode‐free Li metal batteries are receiving increasing attention. Various strategies, such as surface modification and structural design of copper (Cu) current collectors, have been proposed to stabilize the anode‐free Li metal batteries. Unfortunately, the mechanism of Li deposition on the Cu surfaces with the different Miller indices is poorly understood, especially on the atomic scale. Here, the large‐scale molecular dynamics simulations of Li deposition on the Cu substrates are performed in the anode‐free Li metal batteries. The results show that the surface properties of the Li panel can be altered through the different Cu substrate surfaces. Through surface similarity analysis, potential energy distributions,and inhomogeneous deposition simulations, it is found that the Li atoms exhibit different potential energy variances and kinetic characteristics on the different Cu surfaces. Furthermore, a proposal to reduce the fraction of the (110) facet in commercial Cu foils is made to improve the reversibility and stability of Li plating/stripping in the anode‐free Li metal batteries.
Anomaly detection on OpenStack logs based on an improved robust principal component analysis model and its projection onto column space
Authors: Kalaki Parisa Sadat , Shameli‐Sendi Alireza , Abbasi Behzad Khalaji Emamzadeh
Published: November 2022

With the advent of technology and the development of more complex software systems, the size of logs generated by these systems has increasingly risen so that the anomaly detection for remediating common errors has been more difficult than ever. The cloud emergence in the information technology (IT) industry has led to the immigration of enterprises toward it, which has extended the application of cloud management stacks such as OpenStack. By using the OpenStack platform, users can access resource infrastructure and manage virtual machines (VMs). The anomaly detection in OpenStack logs is not realized conveniently due to the substantial size of logs, and it is required to automate this process. Since there is no appropriate open‐source dataset for OpenStack logs, we have generated 25,000 logs by injecting three types of anomalies to propose a more efficient technique in terms of performance and time in detecting anomalies in OpenStack logs relative to recent studies by proper OpenStack log parsing and analyzing these logs by data mining algorithms. To this end, compared to the previous research study, we could improve the anomaly detection performance in terms of F1 score, recall, and precision by 9%, 4%, and 14%, respectively, and decrease the running time relative to the log size by at least 30 s.
A note on centering in subsample selection for linear regression
Authors: Wang HaiYing
Published: November 2022

Centring is a commonly used technique in linear regression analysis. With centred data on both the responses and covariates, the ordinary least squares estimator of the slope parameter can be calculated from a model without the intercept. If a subsample is selected from a centred full data, the subsample is typically uncentred. In this case, is it still appropriate to fit a model without the intercept? The answer is yes, and we show that the least squares estimator on the slope parameter obtained from a model without the intercept is unbiased and it has a smaller variance covariance matrix in the Loewner order than that obtained from a model with the intercept. We further show that for noninformative weighted subsampling when a weighted least squares estimator is used, using the full data weighted means to relocate the subsample improves the estimation efficiency.
Numerical modeling techniques and investigation into the flexural behavior of two‐way posttensioned concrete slabs with profiled steel sheeting
Authors: Dinh Phuoc Tho , Doh Jeung‐Hwan , Fragomeni Sam , Ho Nhat Minh , Peters Tim
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the combined use of posttensioning methods with steel decking in the concrete slabs has provided significant benefits in both economic and structural terms. In construction practice, this prestressed composite floor has extensive use in two‐way spanning slab systems. However, this application still has inherent limitations due to its novelty and lack of research in this specific field. Hence, this study aims to gain the first insight into the flexural behavior of a two‐way posttensioned composite (PTC) slab system based on a numerical approach. Scientific software is utilized for the derived model validation with a focus on models' geometric and material nonlinearity. Available modeling techniques used to perform the posttensioning process and interaction of composite slabs are verified with existing experiments. A comparative study was conducted between PTC slabs and various conventional slab systems on two different support conditions. The findings in this study consider the structural effects of posttensioning and profiled steel sheeting on the flexural behavior of PTC slabs. In addition, numerical results from this research might help structural engineers to modify the design input parameters and make judgments on the bending stiffness of this two‐way slab structure. Further studies are required since the shear behavior, flexural, and punching shear conditions in the column regions are not addressed in this article.
Uniaxial tensile tests and refined finite element analyses of the grouted welded rib sleeve connections
Authors: Zhao Weijian , Bao Jiawen , Gao Qiang , Yang Yuanzhang
Published: November 2022

As the major connection of precast concrete structure, a novel Grouted Welded Rib Sleeve (GWRS) was proposed in this research. Six splice specimens were designed and tested under uniaxial tensile load to investigate the influence of anchorage length and inner cavity structures on their connection performance. To further investigate the failure mechanism of the specimens, a refined finite element (FE) modeling method was proposed, and the corresponding refined models were established, validated, and analyzed. This research shows that the rebar anchorage length is the key factor that controls the failure modes of the specimens. The failure loads of the specimens are mainly influenced by the failure modes. Distributing sleeve ribs close to the sleeve end with lower 25 mm spacing could enhance the confining effect of the sleeve and improve the interlocking effect between the bar and grout. The conical cracks in the grout are distributed at an angle between 35° and 45°, which is also the distributed angle of the compressive struts of the grout. The bond deterioration observed in the tests is caused by the cracking of the grout and the shearing‐off of the grout keys, resulting in the transfer of sleeve effective confining zone.
Insights into the roles of long noncoding RNAs in the communication between plants and the environment
Authors: Yuan Chao , He Rui‐rui , Zhao Wen‐long , Chen Yue‐qin , Zhang Yu‐chan
Published: November 2022

In addition to coding proteins, RNA molecules, especially long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), have well‐established functions in regulating gene expression. The number of studies focused on the roles played by different types of lncRNAs in a variety of plant biological processes has markedly increased. These lncRNA roles involve plant vegetative and reproductive growth and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this review, we examine the classification, mechanisms, and functions of lncRNAs and then emphasize the roles played by these lncRNAs in the communication between plants and the environment mainly with respect to the following environmental factors: temperature, light, water, salt stress, and nutrient deficiencies. We also discuss the consensus among researchers and the remaining challenges and underscore the exciting ways lncRNAs may affect the biology of plants.
Regulatory Constraints and Differences of Genome-Edited Crops Around the Globe
Authors: Hundleby Penny , Harwood Wendy
Published: November 2022

Plant breeding for centuries has relied on the availability of genetic variation to introduce new desirable traits into crops. Biotechnology has already accelerated the ability to induce and utilize new genetic variation, through approaches such as mutation breeding and using technologies such as marker assisted breeding to rapidly identify the required variation. These technologies fall within the definition of “conventional and traditional” breeding and are lightly regulated. However, plant breeders are facing an urgent need for access to wider genetic variation to meet the needs of today’s farmers and consumers worldwide. New breeding technologies (NBTs), such as genome editing, are speeding up the breeding process and providing plant breeders with access to a far greater range of genetic variation. Coupled with a rapidly accelerating genomics era, genome editing is moving plant breeding into an exciting era of intelligent and precision-based plant breeding. The speed at which these new technologies are emerging has challenged the regulatory climate. Some countries consider genome edited crops to require the same regulatory oversight as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while others have chosen to regulate with the same safety evaluations currently associated with bringing conventionally bred crops to market. Harmonization of the regulatory climate is urgently needed if there is to be equal access to this technology and to support international trade of these crops. The current chapter provides a global overview of the current regulatory status of genome-edited crops.
NLO results with operator mixing for fully heavy tetraquarks in QCD sum rules
Authors: Wu Ren-Hua , Zuo Yu-Sheng , Wang Chen-Yu , Meng Ce , Ma Yan-Qing , Chao Kuang-Ta
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We study the mass spectra of $$ \overline{Q}Q\overline{Q}Q $$

Q
¯

Q

Q
¯

Q
(Q = c, b) systems in QCD sum rules with the complete next-to-leading order (NLO) contribution to the perturbative QCD part of the correlation functions. Instead of meson-meson or diquark-antidiquark currents, we use diagonalized currents under operator renormalization. We find that differing from conventional mesons $$ \overline{q}q $$

q
¯

q
and baryons qqq, a unique feature of the multiquark systems like $$ \overline{Q}Q\overline{Q}Q $$

Q
¯

Q

Q
¯

Q
is the operator mixing or color configuration mixing induced by NLO corrections, which is crucial to understand the color structure of the states. Our numerical results show that the NLO corrections are very important for the $$ \overline{Q}Q\overline{Q}Q $$

Q
¯

Q

Q
¯

Q
system, because they not only give significant contributions but also reduce the scheme and scale dependence and make Borel platform more distinct, especially for the $$ \overline{b}b\overline{b}b $$

b
¯

b

b
¯

b
in the $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

scheme. We use currents that have good perturbation convergence in our phenomenological analysis. With the $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

scheme, we get three JPC = 0++ states, with masses $$ {6.35}_{-0.17}^{+0.20} $$

6.35

−
0.17

+
0.20

GeV, $$ {6.56}_{-0.20}^{+0.18} $$

6.56

−
0.20

+
0.18

GeV and $$ {6.95}_{-0.35}^{+0.21} $$

6.95

−
0.35

+
0.21

GeV, respectively. The first two seem to agree with the broad structure around 6.2 ~ 6.8 GeV measured by the LHCb collaboration in the J/ψJ/ψ spectrum, and the third seems to agree with the narrow resonance X(6900). For the 2++ states we find one with mass $$ {7.03}_{-0.26}^{+0.22} $$

7.03

−
0.26

+
0.22

GeV, which is also close to that of X(6900), and another one around $$ {7.25}_{-0.35}^{+0.21} $$

7.25

−
0.35

+
0.21

GeV, which has good scale dependence but slightly large scheme dependence.
Newton–Krylov-BDDC deluxe solvers for non-symmetric fully implicit time discretizations of the bidomain model
Authors: Huynh Ngoc Mai Monica
Published: November 2022

A novel theoretical convergence rate estimate for a Balancing Domain Decomposition by Constraints algorithm is proven for the solution of the cardiac bidomain model, describing the propagation of the electric impulse in the cardiac tissue. The non-linear system arises from a fully implicit time discretization and a monolithic solution approach. The preconditioned non-symmetric operator is constructed from the linearized system arising within the Newton–Krylov approach for the solution of the non-linear problem; we theoretically analyze and prove a convergence rate bound for the Generalised Minimal Residual iterations’ residual. The theory is confirmed by extensive parallel numerical tests, widening the class of robust and efficient solvers for implicit time discretizations of the bidomain model.
Influence of data acquisition modes and data analysis approaches on non-targeted analysis of phthalate metabolites in human urine
Authors: Feng Yong-Lai , Baesu Anca
Published: November 2022

Humans are often exposed to phthalates and their alternatives, on account of their widespread use in PVC as plasticizers, which are associated with harmful human effects. While targeted biomonitoring provides quantitative information for exposure assessment, only a small portion of phthalate metabolites has been targeted. This results in a knowledge gap in human exposure to other unknown phthalate compounds and their metabolites. Although the non-targeted analysis (NTA) approach is capable of screening a broad spectrum of chemicals, there is a lack of harmonized workflow in NTA to generate reproducible data within and between different laboratories. The objective of this study was to compare two different NTA data acquisition modes, the data-dependent (DDA) and independent (DIA) acquisition (DDA), as well as two data analysis approaches, based on diagnostic ions and Compound Discoverer software for the prioritization of candidate precursors and identification of unknown compounds in human urine. Liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry was used for sample analysis. The combination of three-diagnostic-ion extraction and DDA data acquisition was able to improve data filtering and data analysis for prioritizing phthalate metabolites. With DIA, 25 molecular features were identified in human urine, while 32 molecular features were identified in the same urine samples using DDA data. The number of molecular features identified with level 1 confidence was 11 and 9 using DIA and DDA data, respectively. The study demonstrated that besides sample preparation, the impact of data acquisition must be taken into account when developing a NTA method and a consistent protocol for evaluating such an impact is necessary.

Graphical Abstract
Years After a Fire, Biocrust Microbial Communities are Similar to Unburned Communities in a Coastal Grassland
Authors: Palmer Brianne , Lawson Dawn , Lipson David A.
Published: November 2022

Microbial communities are integral for ecosystem processes and their taxonomic composition and function may be altered by a disturbance such as fire. Biocrusts are composed of macroscopic and microscopic organisms and are important for a variety of ecosystem functions, such as nutrient cycling and erosion control. We sought to understand if biocrust community composition and function were altered 1 year after a prescribed fire and 6 years after a wildfire in a coastal California grassland on San Clemente Island. We used shotgun metagenomic sequencing and measurements of chlorophyll content, exopolysaccharide production related to soil stability, and nitrogen fixation. There were no differences in the community composition between unburned samples and the samples burned in the prescribed fire and wildfire. Chlorophyll content differed between the prescribed fire and the controls; however, there were no measured differences in exopolysaccharide production, and nitrogen fixation. However, the wildfire and their respective unburned samples had different functions based on the gene annotations. We compiled one Actinobacteria metagenome-assembled genome from the shotgun sequences which had genes for oxidative and heat stress tolerance. These results suggest that the biocrust community can reach a community composition and function similar to the unburned biocrusts within a year after a prescribed burn and 6 years after a wildfire. However, legacy effects of the wildfire may present themselves in the differences between functional gene sequences. Due to their ability to match the undisturbed community composition and function within years and without intervention, future restoration work should consider the biocrusts in their restoration plans as they may provide valuable ecosystem functions after a disturbance.
The internal structure of the infraspinatus muscle: a magnetic resonance study
Authors: Jernheden Isabelle , Szaro Pawel
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to describe the internal structure of the infraspinatus muscle. A secondary aim was to explore differences in internal structure between genders, sides, and correlations to demographic data.

Methods

In total, 106 shoulder MRI examinations of patients between 18 and 30 years of age seeking care in 2012–2020 at The Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden were re-reviewed.

Results

The number of intramuscular tendons centrally in the infraspinatus muscle varied between 3 and 8 (median = 5). Laterally, the number of intramuscular tendons varied between 1 and 5 (median = 2). There was no difference in the median between the genders or sides. No correlations between the number of intramuscular tendons and demographic data were found. The muscle volume varied between 63 and 249 ml with a median of 188 ml for males and 122 ml for females. There was no significant difference in volume between the sides. The muscle volume correlated with body weight (Pearson’s correlation coefficient, r = 0.72, p < 0.001) and height (r = 0.61, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The anatomical variations of the infraspinatus muscle are widespread. In the medial part of the muscle belly, the number of intramuscular tendons varied between 3 and 8, while the number of intramuscular tendons laterally varied between 1 and 5. Results of our study may help to understand the internal structure of the infraspinatus muscle and its function in shoulder stabilization.
Koopman-Based Spectral Clustering of Directed and Time-Evolving Graphs
Authors: Klus Stefan , Djurdjevac Conrad Nataša
Published: November 2022

While spectral clustering algorithms for undirected graphs are well established and have been successfully applied to unsupervised machine learning problems ranging from image segmentation and genome sequencing to signal processing and social network analysis, clustering directed graphs remains notoriously difficult. Two of the main challenges are that the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of graph Laplacians associated with directed graphs are in general complex-valued and that there is no universally accepted definition of clusters in directed graphs. We first exploit relationships between the graph Laplacian and transfer operators and in particular between clusters in undirected graphs and metastable sets in stochastic dynamical systems and then use a generalization of the notion of metastability to derive clustering algorithms for directed and time-evolving graphs. The resulting clusters can be interpreted as coherent sets, which play an important role in the analysis of transport and mixing processes in fluid flows.

Graphic Abstract
An auto-tuned hybrid deep learning approach for predicting fracture evolution
Authors: Jiang Sheng , Cheng Zifeng , Yang Lei , Shen Luming
Published: November 2022

In this study, a novel auto-tuned hybrid deep learning approach composed of three base deep learning models, namely, long short-term memory, gated recurrent unit, and support vector regression, is developed to predict the fracture evolution process. The novelty of this framework lies in the auto-determined hyperparameter configurations for each base model based on the Bayesian optimization technique, which guarantees the fast and easy implementation in various practical applications. Moreover, the ensemble modeling technique auto consolidates the predictive capability of each base model to generate the final optimized hybrid model, which offers a better prediction of the overall fracture pattern evolution, as demonstrated by a case study. The comparison of the different prediction strategies exhibits that the direct prediction is a better option than the recursive prediction, in particular for a longer prediction distance. The proposed approach may be applied in various sequential data predictions by adopting the adaptive prediction scheme.
Spin-up time and internal variability analysis for overlapping time slices in a regional climate model
Authors: Lavin-Gullon A. , Milovac J. , García-Díez M. , Fernández J.
Published: November 2022

Long-term regional climate simulations are computationally very costly. One way to improve their computational efficiency is to split them into overlapping time slices, which can then be run in parallel. Although this procedure reduces the cost, sufficient spin-up must be left at the start of each slice. In any case, discontinuities will occur due to internal variability where two different slices join. In this study, we explore the relative role of spin-up time and internal variability in the discontinuities of overlapping time slice simulations and their effect on the simulated climate. This analysis has implications also for non-overlapping time slices, commonly used in very high resolution climate modelling, where long transient simulations cannot be afforded. We show that discontinuities are negligible for surface and upper-air variables, but they are noticeable in variables with long response times, such as soil moisture or snow depth. For these variables, differences between the slices are mainly attributed to internal variability, but also to insufficient spin-up time, depending on the region. In general, the results show that the overlapping time slice approach is valid to accomplish long term regional climate simulations.
Quality of life of pediatric patients operated for pilonidal sinus disease
Authors: Esposito Ciro , Lepore Benedetta , Cerulo Mariapina , Borgogni Rachele , Del Conte Fulvia , Coppola Vincenzo , Di Mento Claudia , Carulli Roberto , Cardone Roberto , Cortese Giuseppe , Esposito Giorgia , Escolino Maria
Published: November 2022

Quality of life (QOL) outcome is an ideal method for determining the efficacy of a surgical treatment. In children operated for pilonidal sinus disease (PSD), open procedures imply prolonged wound care, significant morbidity, and high recurrence rates. Endoscopic treatment (PEPSIT) overcomes these limitations. We report our experience in the management of PSD to evaluate the QOL of patients undergoing open and endoscopic treatment. The records of 177 patients undergoing surgery for PSD from 2008 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty patients were operated with open surgery (G1) and 157 with PEPSIT (G2). We analyzed QOL through the following criteria: hospital stay (HS), healing time (HT), return to sport (RTSp), return to school (RTSc), resumption of social life (RSL), and recurrence rate and reoperation (RRR). Moreover, we used Pediatric Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (PQ-LES-Q) for a more subjective evaluation of life satisfaction. We found significant differences in all the analyzed criteria: HS varied from 3 to 7 days in G1 and from 1 to 2 days in G2; HT from 40 to 75 days in G1 while from 20 to 41 days in G2; RTSp from 50 to 80 days in G1 while from 7 to 21 days in G2; RTSc from 9 to 15 days in G1 while from 2 to 4 days in G2; RSL from 13 to 20 days in G1 while from 2 to 5 days in G2; RRR was 25% in G1 and 4.4% in G2.

Conclusion: Endoscopic treatment (PEPSIT) significantly improves the quality of life of patients operated for PSD. Compared to open surgery, PEPSIT presents shorter hospital stay, faster healing time, return to sport activities, return to school and resumption of a normal social life, and lower rates of recurrence and reoperation. In addition, PQ-LES-Q demonstrated a good overall quality of life and life satisfaction. Further prospective studies should be obtained to consider PEPSIT as the gold standard for the treatment of PSD in pediatric patients.

What is Known:

• Many techniques have been proposed in the last 20 years for the surgical treatment of PSD.

• PEPSIT is showing promising results in terms of safety and long-term efficacy.

What is New:

• The main impact in QOL of patients operated with PEPSIT is on their daily activity, including a shorter hospital stay, faster healing time, return to sport activities, return to school and resumption of a normal social life, lower rates of recurrence and reoperation.

• After PEPSIT, children maintain a satisfactory quality of life according to the analysis of PQ-LES-Q
Domestic pigs (Sus scrofa) engage in non-random post-conflict affiliation with third parties: cognitive and functional implications
Authors: Cordoni Giada , Comin Marta , Collarini Edoardo , Robino Carlo , Chierto Elena , Norscia Ivan
Published: November 2022

In social mammals, conflict resolution involves the reunion of former opponents (aggressor and victim) after an aggressive event (reconciliation) or post-conflict triadic contacts with a third party, started by either opponent (solicited-TSC) or spontaneously offered by the third party (unsolicited-TUC). These post-conflict strategies can serve different functions, including consolation (specifically when TUCs reduce the victim’s anxiety). We investigated the possible presence and modulating factors of such strategies on semi-free ranging pigs (Sus scrofa; N = 104), housed at the ethical farm Parva Domus (Cavagnolo, Italy). Kinship was known. Reconciliation was present and mainly occurred between weakly related pigs to possibly improve tolerant cohabitation. Triadic contacts (all present except aggressor TSCs) mostly occurred between close kin. TSCs enacted by victims reduced neither their post-conflict anxiety behaviors nor further attacks by the previous aggressor, possibly because TSCs remained largely unreciprocated. TUCs towards aggressors did not reduce aggressor post-conflict anxiety but limited aggression redirection towards third parties. TUCs towards the victim reduced the victim but not the third-party’s anxiety. However, TUCs may also provide inclusive fitness benefits to third parties by benefiting close kin. In sum, pigs engaged in non-random solicited/unsolicited triadic contacts, which suggests that pigs might possess socio-emotional regulation abilities to change their own or others’ experience and elements of social appraisal, necessary to detect the emotional arousal of relevant others and (in case of TUCs) take the agency to restore homeostasis.
On nth roots of bounded and unbounded quasinormal operators
Authors: Pietrzycki Paweł , Stochel Jan
Published: November 2022

In a recent paper (JFA 278:108342, 2020), R. E. Curto, S. H. Lee and J. Yoon asked the following question: LetTbe a subnormal operator, and assume that$$T^2$$

T
2

is quasinormal. Does it follow thatTis quasinormal? In (JFA 280:109001, 2021) we answered this question in the affirmative. In the present paper, we will extend this result in two directions. Namely, we prove that hyponormal (or even much beyond this class) nth roots of bounded quasinormal operators are quasinormal. On the other hand, we show that subnormal nth roots of unbounded quasinormal operators are quasinormal. We also prove that a non-normal quasinormal operator having a quasinormal nth root has a non-quasinormal nth root.
Integrative Multi-omics Analysis of Childhood Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Hagenbeek Fiona A. , van Dongen Jenny , Pool René , Roetman Peter J. , Harms Amy C. , Hottenga Jouke Jan , Kluft Cornelis , Colins Olivier F. , van Beijsterveldt Catharina E. M. , Fanos Vassilios , Ehli Erik A. , Hankemeier Thomas , Vermeiren Robert R. J. M. , Bartels Meike , Déjean Sébastien , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: November 2022

This study introduces and illustrates the potential of an integrated multi-omics approach in investigating the underlying biology of complex traits such as childhood aggressive behavior. In 645 twins (cases = 42%), we trained single- and integrative multi-omics models to identify biomarkers for subclinical aggression and investigated the connections among these biomarkers. Our data comprised transmitted and two non-transmitted polygenic scores (PGSs) for 15 traits, 78,772 CpGs, and 90 metabolites. The single-omics models selected 31 PGSs, 1614 CpGs, and 90 metabolites, and the multi-omics model comprised 44 PGSs, 746 CpGs, and 90 metabolites. The predictive accuracy for these models in the test (N = 277, cases = 42%) and independent clinical data (N = 142, cases = 45%) ranged from 43 to 57%. We observed strong connections between DNA methylation, amino acids, and parental non-transmitted PGSs for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, intelligence, smoking initiation, and self-reported health. Aggression-related omics traits link to known and novel risk factors, including inflammation, carcinogens, and smoking.
Facilitators and Challenges of Integrating Experts by Experience Activity in Mental Health Services: Experiences from Finland
Authors: Kivistö Mari , Martin Marjatta , Hautala Sanna , Soronen Kari
Published: November 2022

This qualitative study examines the facilitators and challenges of integrating Experts by Experience (EbyE) activity in mental health services in the public sector from the perspective of mental health professionals and trained EbyE. The research data consist of four focus group interviews conducted in one hospital district in Finland. In the hospital district, EbyE activity is an established working model in mental health services. The professional focus groups had 9, and the EbyE focus groups had 13 participants. The data were analysed using abductive content analysis. The experiences of professionals and EbyE emphasised the successful integration of EbyE activity. The identified facilitators of integration included an organisational culture that values EbyE activity, facilitating operating structures, and extensive implementation and utilization of EbyE activities. Despite successful integration, certain challenges were described with regard to actors and practices. The findings indicate that the hospital district has overcome many of the obstacles to the integration identified in previous studies. The findings highlight the role of effectively implemented, organised EbyE activity.
What’s in it for me? A mixed-methods study on teachers’ value creation in an inter-institutional community on open educational resources in higher education
Authors: Baas Marjon , Schuwer Robert , van den Berg Ellen , Huizinga Tjark , van der Rijst Roeland , Admiraal Wilfried
Published: November 2022

The affordances of Open Educational Resources (OER) have resulted in various initiatives around the world, but most of them cease to exist once the initial project funding stops. Communities might be a means to create sustainable practices, yet, such communities can only function if their members perceive these communities as valuable. We applied the value creation framework of Wenger, Trayner, and De Laat to examine the value teachers ascribe to their engagement with an inter-institutional community on OER. In this community, 15 universities of applied sciences collaborated on sharing knowledge and resources across their institutional barriers. We collected data through user statistics, an online questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews. Major value creation occurred from teachers’ personal needs, with dominant immediate and potential values. Findings on applied and realized values denote that it became easier for teachers to connect with peers, and to initiate collaboration projects across institutes. The framework we used is helpful to inform actions to further promote value creation in communities on OER. Recommendations relating to communities’ aspirations, its relations with the wider organization, and adoption of OER are formulated to inform sustainable practices of inter-institutional communities.
Combining statistical methods for detecting potential outliers in groundwater quality time series
Authors: Berendrecht Wilbert , van Vliet Mariëlle , Griffioen Jasper
Published: November 2022

Quality control of large-scale monitoring networks requires the use of automatic procedures to detect potential outliers in an unambiguous and reproducible manner. This paper describes a methodology that combines existing statistical methods to accommodate for the specific characteristics of measurement data obtained from groundwater quality monitoring networks: the measurement series show a large variety of dynamics and often comprise few (< 25) measurements, the measurement data are not normally distributed, measurement series may contain several outliers, there may be trends in the series, and/or some measurements may be below detection limits. Furthermore, the detection limits may vary in time. The methodology for outlier detection described in this paper uses robust regression on order statistics (ROS) to deal with measured values below the detection limit. In addition, a biweight location estimator is applied to filter out any temporal trends from the series. The subsequent outlier detection is done in z-score space. Tuning parameters are used to attune the robustness and accuracy to the given dataset and the user requirements. The method has been applied to data from the Dutch national groundwater quality monitoring network, which consists of approximately 350 monitoring wells. It proved to work well in general, detecting outliers at the top and bottom of the regular measurement range and around the detection limit. Given the diversity exhibited by measurement series, it is to be expected that the method does not give 100% satisfactory results. Measured values identified by the method as potential outliers will therefore always need to be further assessed on the basis of expert knowledge, consistency with other measurement data and/or additional research.