bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy pile displacements due to cyclic thermal loading at different mechanical load levels
Authors: Rafai Mouadh , Salciarini Diana , Vardon Philip J.
Published: February 2025

The effect of the load level on long-term thermally induced pile displacements and the impact of cyclic thermal loads on the bearing capacity of energy piles are investigated via a full-scale in situ test in Delft, The Netherlands. The pile was loaded to a specific target of 0, 30, 40, or 60% of its calculated ultimate bearing capacity. At the end of each loading step, up to ten cooling–natural heating cycles were applied. The pile behavior during monotonic cooling and cyclic cooling–natural heating in terms of the displacement along the pile is reported, with a focus on permanent displacements. During monotonic (pile/ground) cooling, a settlement of the pile head and an uplift of the pile segment near the pile tip were observed in all four tests. In addition, under higher mechanical load, the pile head displacement was larger while the uplift was lower due to the imposed mechanical load. During cyclic thermal load, under zero mechanical load, pile head displacement was fully reversible while permanent uplift of the lowest pile segment was observed and attributed mainly to the permanent dragdown of the surrounding soil. Under moderate mechanical loads (30 and 40%), thermal cycles induced an irreversible pile head settlement, which stabilized with an increasing number of cycles. In addition, a permanent pile settlement along the pile was observed at the end of these tests. Under high mechanical load (60%), the irreversible settlement along the pile continued to increase with only a slight reduction in rate, being higher compared to moderate mechanical loads. In this test, a normalized pile head settlement of 0.124% was observed after ten thermal cycles. The permanent settlement of the pile under thermo-mechanical loads was mainly attributed to the contraction of sand beneath the pile tip and thermal creep at the soil–structure interface. The pile bearing capacity was observed to increase after thermo-mechanical tests, mainly due to the residual/plastic pile head displacement, which in turn densified sand leading to an increase in tip resistance.
Multi-dimensional consistency learning between 2D Swin U-Net and 3D U-Net for intestine segmentation from CT volume
Authors: An Qin , Oda Hirohisa , Hayashi Yuichiro , Kitasaka Takayuki , Uchida Hiroo , Hinoki Akinari , Suzuki Kojiro , Takimoto Aitaro , Oda Masahiro , Mori Kensaku
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The paper introduces a novel two-step network based on semi-supervised learning for intestine segmentation from CT volumes. The intestine folds in the abdomen with complex spatial structures and contact with neighboring organs that bring difficulty for accurate segmentation and labeling at the pixel level. We propose a multi-dimensional consistency learning method to reduce the insufficient intestine segmentation results caused by complex structures and the limited labeled dataset.

Methods

We designed a two-stage model to segment the intestine. In stage 1, a 2D Swin U-Net is trained using labeled data to generate pseudo-labels for unlabeled data. In stage 2, a 3D U-Net is trained using labeled and unlabeled data to create the final segmentation model. The model comprises two networks from different dimensions, capturing more comprehensive representations of the intestine and potentially enhancing the model’s performance in intestine segmentation.

Results

We used 59 CT volumes to validate the effectiveness of our method. The experiment was repeated three times getting the average as the final result. Compared to the baseline method, our method improved 3.25% Dice score and 6.84% recall rate.

Conclusion

The proposed method is based on semi-supervised learning and involves training both 2D Swin U-Net and 3D U-Net. The method mitigates the impact of limited labeled data and maintains consistncy of multi-dimensional outputs from the two networks to improve the segmentation accuracy. Compared to previous methods, our method demonstrates superior segmentation performance.
Lower bounds for multicolor van der Waerden numbers
Authors: Hunter Zach
Published: February 2025

We give an exponential improvement to the diagonal van der Waerden numbers for r ≥ 5 colors.
Joint ergodicity for functions of polynomial growth
Authors: Donoso Sebastián , Koutsogiannis Andreas , Sun Wenbo
Published: February 2025

We provide necessary and sufficient conditions for joint ergodicity results for systems of commuting measure preserving transformations for an iterated Hardy field function of polynomial growth. Our method builds on and improves recent techniques due to Frantzikinakis and Tsinas, who dealt with multiple ergodic averages along Hardy field functions; it also enhances an approach introduced by the authors and Ferré Moragues to study polynomial iterates. The more general expression, in which the iterate is a linear combination of a Hardy field function of polynomial growth and a tempered function, is studied as well.
Filtered skew derivations on simple artinian rings
Authors: Jones Adam , Woods William
Published: February 2025

Given a complete, positively filtered ring (R, f) and a compatible skew derivation (σ, δ), we may construct its skew power series ring R[[x; σ, δ]]. Due to topological obstructions, even if δ is an inner σ-derivation, in general we cannot “untwist” it, i.e., reparametrise to find a filtered isomorphism R[[x; σ, δ]] ≌ R[[x′; σ]], as might be expected from the theory of skew polynomial rings; similarly when σ is an inner automorphism. We find general conditions under which it is possible to untwist the multiplication data, and use this to analyse the structure of R[[x; σ, δ]] in the simplest case when R is a matrix ring over a (noncommutative) noetherian discrete valuation ring.
Generalized regular representations of big wreath products
Authors: Strahov Eugene
Published: February 2025

Let G be a finite group with k conjugacy classes, and S(∞) be the infinite symmetric group, i.e., the group of finite permutations of {1, 2, 3, …}. Then the wreath product G
∞ = G ∼ S (∞) of G with S (∞) (called the big wreath product) can be defined. The group G
∞ is a generalization of the infinite symmetric group, and it is an example of a “big” group, in Vershik’s terminology. For such groups the two-sided regular representations are irreducible, the conventional scheme of harmonic analysis is not applicable, and the problem of harmonic analysis is a nontrivial problem with connections to different areas of mathematics and mathematical physics.

Harmonic analysis on the infinite symmetric group was developed in the works by Kerov, Olshanski, and Vershik, and Borodin and Olshanski. The goal of this paper is to extend this theory to the case of G
∞. In particular, we construct an analogue

$${\frak{S}}_{G}$$

S

G

of the space of virtual permutations. We then formulate and prove a theorem characterizing all central probability measures on

$${\frak{S}}_{G}$$

S

G

. Next, we introduce generalized regular representations

$$\{T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k} : z_{1}\in \mathbb{C},\cdots,z_{k}\in \mathbb{C}\}$$

{

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

:

z

1

∈

C

,
⋯
,

z

k

∈

C

}

of the big wreath product G
∞, which are analogues of the Kerov–Olshanski–Vershik generalized regular representations of the infinite symmetric group. We derive an explicit formula for the characters of

$$T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k}$$

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

. The spectral measures of these representations are characterized in different ways. In particular, these spectral measures are associated with point processes whose correlation functions are explicitly computed. Thus, in representation-theoretic terms, the paper solves a natural problem of harmonic analysis for the big wreath products: our results describe the decomposition of

$$T_{z_{1}},\cdots,z_{k}$$

T

z

1

,
⋯
,

z

k

into irreducible components.
Neuromodulation of Dopamine D2 Receptors Alters Orbitofrontal Neuronal Activity and Reduces Risk-Prone Behavior in Male Rats with Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Dourado Margarida , Cardoso-Cruz Helder , Monteiro Clara , Galhardo Vasco
Published: February 2025

Dopamine (DA) is believed to play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the rodent orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) networks during risk-based decision-making processes. Chronic pain conditions can lead to impaired DAergic signaling, which, in turn, may affect the motivational control of risk-based responses. Nevertheless, the neural mechanisms underlying this instability are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether this impairment is dependent on the activity of the DA D2 receptor (D2r). To address this hypothesis, we implanted bilateral matrices of multielectrodes into the OFC of male rats and recorded the neural activity while they performed a food-reinforced rodent gambling task (rGT). We evaluated behavioral performance and neural activity patterns before and after inducing a model of inflammatory pain – complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) model. Our findings revealed that rats treated with CFA exhibited an abnormal preference for the large/uncertain reward during rGT performance. This altered behavioral choice profile could be reversed by prior systemic administration of D2r ligands (0.05 mg/kg, quinpirole or raclopride), indicating a potential role of D2r in the decision-making process required for this task. The administration of these ligands at the specified dosages did not affect pain responses, but lead to a significant alteration of OFC neuronal activity that support goal-directed choice responses in the rGT. Finally, we found evidence that CFA-treated rats exhibit OFC functional changes, namely an upregulation of DA D1 receptor (D1r) and a downregulation of DA beta-hydroxylase (DH). These results demonstrate that the disruption of DAergic balance in the brain networks is crucial for the development of high-risk decision profiles during painful conditions.
The Right to Mental Integrity: Multidimensional, Multilayered and Extended
Authors: Cassinadri Guido
Published: February 2025

In this article I present a characterization of the right to mental integrity (RMI), expanding and refining the definition proposed by Ienca and Andorno’s (Life Science Society Policy 13 5, 2017) and clarifying how the scope of this right should be shaped in cases of cognitive extension (EXT). In doing so, I will first critically survey the different formulations of the RMI presented in the literature. I will then argue that the RMI protects from i) nonconsensual interferences that ii) bypass reasoning and iii) produce mental harm. Contrary to other definitions proposed in the literature, my formulation disentangles the RMI from the right to cognitive liberty (RCL) (Lavazza in Frontiers Neuroscience 12 82, 2018), the right to mental privacy (RMP) (Lavazza and Giorgi in Neuroethics 16 (1): 1-13, 2023), and the right to psychological continuity (RPC) (Zohny et al. in Neuroethics 16: 20, 2023), thus enabling a fine-grained assessment of their simultaneous or individual violation. Finally, I analyse how the extended mind thesis (EXT) reshapes the scope of the RMI, proposing a layered protection of extended mental integrity, which grants stronger protection to the organism-bound cognitive system and self in case of manipulative influences of the mind-extending device. To conclude, I present a variety of neurorights violations and mental harms inflicted to organism-bound and cognitively extended agents.
Efficacy and safety of elobixibat in patients with chronic constipation—A randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study from India
Authors: Agarwal Piyush , Jha Brajesh Kumar , Somagoni Jaganmohan , B Srinivas Shenoy , Modh Vipul , Chakilam Sanketh Kumar , Kumar Vinay , Vasantrao Mukewar Shrikant , Kalla Mukesh , Kavitha Anumula , Goyal Omesh , Bhatia Ashima
Published: February 2025

Background

Elobixibat is a locally acting ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor that relieves functional constipation in patients by accelerating colonic transit. In this study, we aimed at determining the efficacy and safety of elobixibat for short-term treatment (two weeks) of chronic constipation in Indian patients.

Methods

The present study was a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, phase III study to evaluate efficacy and safety of elobixibat. The study planned to enroll patients with chronic constipation of at least six months' duration, satisfying Rome IV criteria for functional constipation. Following a run-in of approximately 14 days to confirm eligibility and determine baseline frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs), eligible patients were randomized 1:1 either to elobixibat or to placebo groups. The change in weekly frequency of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) at the end of treatment (week two) over baseline was the primary efficacy endpoint in this trial. Primary efficacy analyses were based on the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population. This trial is registered at CTRI (Clinical Trial Registry of India).

Results

Between April 2023 and December 2023, 150 patients were randomized into the two-week trial. In mITT population (n = 146 [elobixibat = 75 and placebo = 71]), the least square mean (LSM) difference between elobixibat (3.83) and placebo (2.68) was 1.15 (95% CI, 0.31, 1.99) demonstrating a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.008) in weekly frequency of SBMs (week two over baseline) with the use of elobixibat. The proportions of patients with a complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) “response” was significantly higher with elobixibat (49.33%) compared to the placebo (26.76%) treatment (difference 22.57% [95% CI, 8.36%, 36.78%] [p = 0.005]). The most common adverse event (AE) was abdominal pain (elobixibat = 6 patients [7.89%] vs. placebo = 3 patients [4.05%]).

Conclusions

Elobixibat was well tolerated and improved bowel movement frequency within two weeks of treatment in Indian patient population with chronic constipation.

Clinical trial registry number

CTRI/2022/10/046690

Graphical Abstract
Green infrastructure has weak conceptual links with efficient biodiversity conservation
Authors: Ekroos Johan , von Post Maria , Persson Anna S. , Stjernman Martin , Olsson Ola
Published: February 2025

To reverse biodiversity loss, creating resilient ecological networks has been promoted in policy and practice. However, we argue that emphasising networks within policy without clear conservation prioritisations may direct focus away from ecological processes important for population persistence. We studied the rationale for resilient ecological networks represented in a policy context, by reviewing research related to biodiversity within the concept of green infrastructure in European policy. We compared this outcome with underlying empirical evidence for effects of landscape properties on ecological processes relevant to population persistence. We show that interventions within green infrastructure research partly diverge from evidence of efficient conservation derived from empirical studies, likely linked to an insufficient acknowledgement of ecological processes determining long-term conservation of populations in GI policy and research. We discuss possible implications for biodiversity conservation and argue for upcoming policies to better integrate scientific evidence and underlying ecological processes to improve biodiversity outcomes.
Enhancing error detection and improvement in operations and manufacturing through app designers
Authors: Elshourbagy S. A. M.
Published: February 2025

This study explores how involving app designers can enhance the use of various technologies to solve complex problems in engineering and manufacturing. App designers can play a key role in identifying and reducing errors by diagnosing software issues, modeling machines, pinpointing error sources, simulating and analyzing vibration and sound, measuring vibration and sound levels, and providing real-time monitoring. They can also use haptic feedback to alert users to the presence of vibrations or noises. However, using apps to measure vibration and sound has limitations, such as the quality of smartphone sensors, environmental conditions, and specific app features that can impact measurement accuracy. The study highlights successful examples of utilizing app designers in manufacturing and operations, including an app using machine learning to diagnose car issues based on sound and vibration data, and an app that measures ground vibrations caused by traffic using smartphone sensors. These examples demonstrate the potential for app designers to help resolve errors in manufacturing and operations. The resulting applications can effectively detect sound and noise in both the time and frequency domains, leading to improved accuracy, efficiency, error reduction, and increased productivity in manufacturing and operations.
Improving a reaction curve-based analytical identification technique for fractional models
Authors: Gude Juan J. , García Bringas Pablo
Published: February 2025

A new analytical procedure for identifying fractional first-order plus dead-time (FFOPDT) models has recently been proposed. The technique is applicable to systems with S-shaped step responses and involves selecting three specific points on the process response curve for parameter estimation. In a simplified version of the method, the points are symmetrically positioned as

$$x_1 = x\%$$

x
1

=
x
%

,

$$x_2 = 50\%$$

x
2

=
50
%

, and

$$x_3 = (100 - x)\%$$

x
3

=

(
100
-
x
)

%

, with

$$0< x < 50\%$$

0
<
x
<
50
%

, requiring only the optimal position of one point, x, given that the others are set automatically. This study explores the effect of adjusting the value of

$$x_2$$

x
2

in the representative points (x-

$$x_2$$

x
2

-

$$(100-x)\%)$$

(
100
-
x
)
%
)

, while preserving symmetry around the center of the interval. Simulations provide insights into the influence of

$$x_2$$

x
2

for more accurate estimation, revealing that the accuracy of the identified FFOPDT model is highly sensitive to the position of

$$x_2$$

x
2

, and an optimal value is proposed to enhance precision. Experimental validation on a thermal-based prototype deployed on a microprocessor confirms the technique’s applicability. This approach provides new insights into selecting the central point

$$x_2$$

x
2

and its implications for industrial applications.
Opportunistic muscle density assay during CT lung cancer screening for low muscle quality evaluation in older adults: a multicenter study
Authors: Chen Xin , Gao Xifa , Wang Rongzhou , Wei Zicheng , Wang Jiangchuan , Wang Miaomiao , Xie Chao , Chen Xiao
Published: February 2025

Background

Intramuscular adiposity, which can be reflected by muscle computed tomography (CT) attenuation, may be a marker of sarcopenia. This study aimed to investigate muscle attenuation across the life course and thresholds of muscle attenuation for evaluating low muscle quality in older adults.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included 9701 subjects aged 20 years and older who underwent CT lung cancer screening from 2019 to 2021 at our institutions in cohort 1. Muscle attenuation (Hounsfield units [HUs]) of the bilateral erector spinae and spleen attenuation at the middle level of the T11 vertebra were measured. The T score, which is analogous to that used to define osteoporosis, was calculated on the basis of absolute muscle attenuation and the muscle‒spleen ratio (M/S). A T score < -2.5 was used to define low muscle density. The cutoff points for muscle CT attenuation and M/S were subsequently calculated to define low muscle density. Another cohort (cohort 2) of 2006 subjects aged 50 years or older was included to explore the association between low muscle quality and vertebral compression fracture (VCF).

Results

The mean [SD] age of cohort 1 was 51.8 [15.5] years, and 5896 [60.8%] men were included. The mean [SD] age of cohort 2 was 62.4 [9.6] years, and 1162 [57.9%] men were included. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age was associated with muscle CT attenuation (β = -0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.21 to -0.18) and the M/S ratio (β = -0.004, 95% CI: -0.004 to -0.003). The prevalence of low muscle density was dependent on the cutoff point and increased with age. A cutoff point of 32 HU for women and 37 HU for men and an M/S of 0.65 for women and 0.75 for men were used to define low muscle density. Low muscle density defined by those cutoff points was associated with the risk of VCF [muscle attenuation: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.422 (95% CI: 0.256–0.696) for women; aHR = 0.391 (95% CI: 0.173–0.883) for men; M/S: aHR = 0.40 (95% CI: 0.23–0.68) for women; aHR = 0.23 (95% CI: 0.09–0.58) for men].

Conclusion

Muscle density decreases with age. The muscle attenuation of 32 HU for women and 37 HU for men, an M/S of 0.65 for women and 0.75 for men, may be used to define low muscle density.
Musculoskeletal diseases, infections and vaccines: state of the art, research perspectives and educational needs
Authors: Ecarnot Fiona , Thiyagarajan Jotheeswaran Amuthavalli , Barbagallo Mario , Barratt Jane , Constantinescu Stefan , Elkayam Ori , Ferrucci Luigi , Hiligsmann Mickaël , Kapetanovic Meliha , Macchia Francesco , Michel Jean-Pierre , Migliore Alberto , Pilotto Alberto , Sieber Cornel , Strangfeld Anja , Veronese Nicola , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Maggi Stefania , Rizzoli René
Published: February 2025

Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant public health burden concern, projected to increase in the coming decades, and will substantially contribute to the rising prevalence of functional impairment, frailty and disability in a growing global population. Since persons with musculoskeletal disorders tend to have immune dysfunction, inflammation or be taking immunosuppressive medication, prevention of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) in this group is particularly important. The European Interdisciplinary Council for Aging (EICA) and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ESCEO) jointly convened a 2-day in-person and virtual meeting on 26–27 September 2023, to review the state of the evidence on the link between musculoskeletal diseases, infections and vaccines. We present here the Executive Summary of the proceedings of this meeting. We review the importance of physical activity in preventing or mitigating both musculoskeletal diseases and risk of infection. We summarize current knowledge of the impact of common VPDs on the development and progression of musculoskeletal diseases, and the role of selected vaccines in preventing onset and worsening of frailty and disability in these individuals. This report summarizes the evidence presented at the two-day meeting, highlighting the need to raise awareness among scientists, healthcare professionals, decision-makers, civil society and the general public about the long-term sequelae of VPDs, with focus on the health status of older patients with musculoskeletal diseases.
Group exercise in long-term care facilities, alignment with World Health Organization recommendations: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Poveda-López Salud , Lillo-Navarro Carmen , Montilla-Herrador Joaquina
Published: February 2025

Background

Maintaining functional status in institutionalized older people is a challenge for long-term care (LTC) institutions. In this regard, exercise may have positive effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines which include recommendations of exercise for each population group. Nonetheless, the literature shows that the levels of exercise among institutionalized population are still low.

Aims

This study sought to determine: (1) the characteristics of exercise programs for older people performed by health professionals in LTC facilities, (2) the knowledge and use of the WHO recommendations and guidelines for exercising among older people in LTC facilities; (3) the limitations identified by health professionals regarding the application of the WHO guidelines.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional national survey following STROBE guideline was performed. Sample: professionals developing exercise programs for institutionalized older people. A Delphi study was conducted to create the survey which included sociodemographic data, exercise characteristics, knowledge about WHO recommendations and limitations regarding their application. Descriptive statistics were used on the data, such as Pearson’s χ2 and independent t- test.

Results

Many professionals do not know (27,5%) or do not follow (52%) the guidelines proposed by the WHO. There is a low weekly frequency for strength exercises (30%) and aerobic exercise (51%). The professional contract influences the weekly frequency of exercise. Most identified limitations for using the WHO recommendations were the lack of time and large groups.

Discussion and conclusions

Recommendations of WHO guidelines are familiar to many professionals, however, some are difficult to implement in exercise programs in LTC facilities.
New electric force and charge exchange modules in discrete element model enables particle dynamics simulation in electric field
Authors: Wu Ziheng , Tang Guannan , Troksa Michael , Elton Eric
Published: February 2025

Discrete element modeling (DEM) is an important technique for particle dynamics simulation. The field of metal additive manufacturing often utilizes DEM to simulate the rheological behaviors of powder. Standard contact and short-range interactions are sufficient in most cases but insufficient to describe the particle dynamics with the influence of an electric field. Modeling such a system requires additional physics to describe the particle–field interactions. The relevant physics has been experimentally understood but is not yet available in DEM. Here, we develop a charge exchange and an electric force module. The electric force module governs particle response to the electric field, while the charge exchange module enables particles to acquire proper charge during contact with charged geometries. We validate the modules against analytical calculations and high-speed videos of electrostatic powder deposition experiments. Notably, the model struggles to capture the initial particle levitation. We later deploy a modified electric field, as supported by static electric field simulation, to better approximate the electric field penetration into the powder layer. This modification improves the model’s capability of simulating realistic particle levitation. The results highlight the challenges of modeling particle behaviors in the electric field while demonstrating the feasibility of obtaining quantitative results, which are difficult to measure experimentally.
Short-term Impact of Financial Support to Inner Areas
Authors: Monturano Gianluca , Resce Giuliano , Ventura Marco
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the short-term effects of financial support provided to Inner Areas through a specific place-based governmental policy that was introduced in Italy between 2014 and 2018 to combat depopulation. Taking advantage of the most recent developments in the econometrics of policy evaluation, we apply a staggered difference-in-difference estimator to evaluate the impact of public policy on population structure and the number of plants at the municipal level. The analysis is made possible thanks to a detailed panel dataset containing information about the Italian municipalities over the years 2014–2020. The results show that, over the first 2 years, the financial support to Inner Areas does not affect the population structure, but it can generate a significant number of extra plants in the treated municipalities. A further key issue is whether the policy can generate spillover effects on neighbours which may either corroborate the result or invalidate it. To answer this question we combine the baseline model with a spatial empirical strategy, and we find positive spillover effects for extra plants on neighbouring municipalities.
New England’s Pinnacle: fostering quality entrepreneurial ecosystems
Authors: Almeida Alejandro , Golpe Antonio A. , Martín-Álvarez Juan Manuel , Vides Jose Carlos
Published: February 2025

This paper has assessed the dynamics of entrepreneurial ecosystems across the US states. To do this, we have used the Startup Formation Rate (SFR) and the Entrepreneurial Quality Index (EQI) from a novel data set called the Startup Cartography Project, which spans from 1988 to 2014. For this purpose, we have applied the Phillips and Sul (Econometrica 75:1771–1855, 2007, Econometrics 24:1153–1185, 2009)’s club clustering algorithm in order to identify the existence of absolute or regional convergence. Our results suggest the existence of two and three clubs convergence, respectively. More importantly, when attending EQI, California and Massachusetts form a club, which is evidence of the importance of quality entrepreneurship over quantity. Furthermore, from a geographical point of view, SFR clubs show a scattered distribution throughout the national territory, while the EQI clubs are more homogeneous. In this sense, we apply the Local Moran I test to the EQI club that is formed by California and Massachusetts to analyze the possible spillover effects of these states, to their neighbours. Finally, this gives valuable information for designing entrepreneur policies at different levels.
Impact of Face Mask Wearing on Vowel Production
Authors: Jiang Feiyun , Chen Yang , Ng Manwa L.
Published: February 2025

In the post-COVID era, face masks have become a part of our daily lives. However, the effects of these masks on Mandarin speech production remain unclear. This study aimed to address this research gap by conducting a comprehensive investigation of the impact of surgical face masks on vowel production. Vowels produced in a continuous speech context were recorded for 61 native Mandarin-speaking adults, both with and without wearing a face mask. The acoustic parameters associated with three corner vowels /i/, /a/, and /u/ in Mandarin were measured. Significant changes were observed in the acoustic parameters under the masked condition, including an increase in F0 and a decrease in both F1 and F2 of vowel /a/, as well as tVSA, F1RR, and F2RR. However, no significant changes were found in duration and FCR. The patterns exhibited similarities between male and female speakers. The observed differences in vowel production can be attributed to the acoustic and physical consequences of wearing face masks. These differences, which may indirectly lead to reduced speech intelligibility, highlight the necessity of adopting adaptive strategies when face masks are present in various communication settings.
Influence and handling of process interruptions in PBF-LB of AlSi10Mg
Authors: Moser M. , Brenner S. , Löwisch G. , Nedeljkovic-Groha V.
Published: February 2025

The high degree of design freedom is a major advantage of additive manufacturing processes and enables the production of highly complex structures that cannot be realized with conventional manufacturing methods. This makes AM processes such as Powder Bed Fusion of Metal with Laser Beam (PBF-LB/M) an attractive option for different industries. However, the production process can be interrupted for various reasons. In addition to a planned pause, e.g., for the production of smart components, various technical issues can lead to an unwanted interruption of the process. In any cases, if the user continues the production process after an interruption, the temperature histories of the produced components and the PBF-LB/M machine are different compared to a non-interrupted process. The literature shows that the cool-down of the system and the components during the process interruption results in various types of component defects. According to our current state of knowledge, the formation of the interruption marks is the most critical defect resulting from a process interruption. Due to the resulting notch effect, the global component properties are often severely impaired even for short interruption times. The easiest way to eliminate the influence of the interruption marks is therefore to remove them by machining the components. An unplanned post-processing using traditional methods like milling or turning is usually difficult or even impossible as the necessary requirements for the component geometry are often not met. In many cases, machining is also not economically viable. In order to address this challenge, three different processing methods were tested in the present study: blasting, vibratory finishing, and manual grinding. These methods are not restricted in the mentioned way and can be used spontaneously to remove the marks quickly and simply. The extent to which the methods affect the surface, the geometry of the interruption marks and the residual stresses was investigated. Fatigue tests were performed to assess the capability of these methods to reduce the negative effects of a process interruption. The results show that the investigated post-processing methods have different effects on the component properties and fatigue strength. All three methods have shown that the negative effects of the interruption marks and thus the scrap rate due to an interruption in the PBF-LB/M can be significantly reduced using appropriate post-processing methods.
The Role of Emotion Regulation in Body-Focused Gratitude: Impacts on Well-Being, Body Compassion, and Behavioural Intentions
Authors: Dennis Amelia , Ogden Jane
Published: February 2025

Gratitude is a positive emotion that increases well-being and body image. Across two studies, we explored the impact of general and body gratitude and the role of emotional regulation on well-being, health behavioural intentions, and body compassion. In Study 1 (N = 382), we used a cross-sectional design to assess associations between body and general gratitude and emotion regulation with well-being, health behavioural intentions, and body compassion. The results showed that emotion regulation was positively associated with both trait general and body gratitude, and in turn both trait general and body gratitude were linked to greater well-being, health behavioural intentions, and body compassion. Specifically, trait general gratitude better correlated with well-being, life satisfaction, and weight loss intentions, whereas, trait body gratitude had a stronger correlation with affect, exercise intentions, and body compassion. In Study 2 (N = 425), we experimentally induced general or body gratitude (vs. control) and tested the effect of emotion regulation on well-being outcomes. The results showed that body gratitude (vs. control) increased body compassion; whereas general gratitude (vs. control) increased well-being and weight loss intentions. Additionally, the results showed that greater emotion regulation was associated with higher gratitude and in turn greater well-being, intention to exercise, and body compassion in the general and body gratitude intervention (vs. control). These findings suggest that general and body gratitude relate to well-being and that emotion regulation plays a key role in the benefits of gratitude.
Labor market participation of the elderly: the role of family financial transfers in China
Authors: Harris Richard , Li Xueqi , Qian Enping
Published: February 2025

Population ageing has (usually negative) implications for economic growth linked to a declining population of working age. This study uses Chinese household data for 2018 to consider the determinants of the willingness of people who have reached the ‘official’ retirement age to remain part of the workforce. As well as controlling for a range of personal characteristics of the elderly, the emphasis here is on the economic importance of the relatively close relationship between parents and children in China. Our results show that the transfer of funds to parents’ has the largest link with participation, because of the relative importance of such transfers. However, transfers from parents to children, while undertaken by only a small proportion of households, have a much larger association with whether the elderly work. Moreover, location is very important, with transfers to children having the largest effect in rural areas while transfers to parents have a stronger bearing in non-rural areas.
Research advances and hotspot evolution of carbon fiber composite material recycling based on bibliometrics analysis
Authors: Guo Xiang , Li Tian , Liu Chunting , Wu Mengying , Liao Yuyan , Xu Jinwu , Chen Weijing , Pei Linlin , Liu Fang , Chen Da
Published: February 2025

The rapid application and development of high-performance carbon fiber composite material brought challenges for the recovery of composite waste. Recycling of carbon fiber composites has been particularly demanded. The bibliometric method combined with S-shaped curves and visualization tools VOSviewer and CiteSpace were applied to quantitatively analyze 5979 research papers related to carbon fiber recycling in the Web of Science database from 2000 to 2023. The bibliometric results show that the number of research papers related to carbon fiber recycling has increased from 23 in 2000 to 1247 in 2023. The S-shaped curve of post volume indicates that carbon fiber recovery has great potential for development in the next 20 years. In the global research on carbon fiber recycling technology, China ranks first in terms of publication volume, and the United States ranks second. Both are core countries in the international cooperation network. The evolution of keywords and hotspots indicates that the hotspots in the field of carbon fiber recycling are gradually moving towards “sustainable”, and “circular economy”. Based on patent analysis, the field of carbon fiber recycling is currently experiencing accelerated growth and will become a hot research topic in the future. There are various recycling technologies for carbon fiber composite materials, with pyrolysis as the mainstream. Mechanical recycling causes significant performance loss, while chemical methods are limited by cost. In the future, recycling technologies will focus on improving fiber performance and reducing environmental impact.

Graphical Abstract
The Spreading of Magnetic Reconnection X‐Line in Particle‐In‐Cell Simulations– Mechanism and the Effect of Drift‐Kink Instability
Authors: Lin Shan‐Chang , Liu Yi‐Hsin , Li Xiaocan
Published: February 2025

Using three‐dimensional particle‐in‐cell (PIC) simulations, we study the spread of magnetic reconnection X‐line. We show that structural asymmetries along the X‐line direction develop during its spread. On the plane of the current sheet (i.e., corresponding to the equatorial plane of the magnetotail), sharp cusp‐shaped signatures develop along the ion‐drifting direction, capturing the spread of the X‐line. The spreading is catalyzed by the lower ion pressure from the active diffusion region, and the X‐line spreads at the ion‐drifting speed of the non‐reconnecting current sheet. Along the electron‐drifting direction, the X‐line barely spreads even though the electron‐drifting speed is high within the electron diffusion region, and reconnected flux is transported toward this direction by the Hall effect. This preferential spread in the ion‐drifting direction provides an additional explanation for the higher occurrence rate of reconnection events on the dusk side in Earth's magnetotail. In contrast to the laminar X‐line, in a companion run, we demonstrate that the fluctuation and turbulence caused by drift‐kink instability only suppress the X‐line spreading. Even though the fluctuation breaks the frozen‐in condition, it does not lead to the continuous onset of reconnection adjacent to the active region.
Improving Volcanic SO2 Cloud Modeling Through Data Fusion and Trajectory Analysis: A Case Study of the 2022 Hunga Tonga Eruption
Authors: Sadeghi Bavand , Crawford Alice , Chai Tianfeng , Cohen Mark , Sieglaff Justin , Pavolonis Michael , Kim Hyun Cheol , Morris Gary
Published: February 2025

The January 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha'apai volcano in the South Pacific emitted significant sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, forming a large stratospheric cloud. This study employs the HYSPLIT model, a Lagrangian atmospheric transport and dispersion model, along with satellite retrievals of cloud properties to model the long range transport of the cloud. To reduce the uncertainty and complexity of modeling the near‐source behavior of the umbrella cloud, we utilize a data insertion technique that initializes the model at a downwind plume location. Satellite retrievals provide estimates of column mass loading and plume top height, though the plume top height may be uncertain above the tropopause. Additionally, the vertical mass distribution must be estimated by making assumptions about the cloud thickness. We use a back trajectory analysis to provide better estimations of plume top height and thickness. Our findings reveal that trajectory‐derived cloud top heights substantially exceeded satellite estimates, with 60% ranging between 20 and 40 km, compared to most satellite‐derived estimates being around 15 km. Long range 5‐day forecasts produced with data insertion using the revised cloud top heights and estimated thickness are compared with forecasts using retrieved cloud top heights and an assumed simple thickness of 1 km, and a control run initiated from the vent at the eruption start time. A qualitative comparison with satellite retrievals and data from ground based lidar stationed at Réunion Island shows the use of the back trajectory analysis significantly improves the forecast.
Comparative Analysis of Performance for Optimization‐Based Transionospheric SAR Autofocus
Authors: Gilman Mikhail , Tsynkov Semyon
Published: February 2025

For a spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) operating on low frequencies (such as P‐band), turbulence in the Earth's ionosphere may cause significant phase perturbations of the interrogating signals. These perturbations depend on both the antenna and target coordinates and may lead to substantial image distortions. In our previous work, we proposed a variational approach to correcting the distortions that we called the transionospheric SAR autofocus. It required solving a complex optimization problem but performed well in numerical tests. As the optimization problem may be considered a hurdle, in the current work we compare the performance of the transionospheric SAR autofocus against that of a non‐variational approach. The latter combines partial focusing with traditional autofocus where the phase perturbations are assumed to depend only on the antenna coordinates but not the target coordinates. In most cases, the optimization‐based SAR autofocus produces images with better articulated peaks (i.e., peaks that are taller and narrower) as compared to those by the alternative approach.
Coding principles and mechanisms of serotonergic transmission modes
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Zhang Peng , Shin Mimi , Chang Yuanyu , Abbott Stephen B. G. , Venton B. Jill , Zhu J. Julius
Published: February 2025

Serotonin-mediated intercellular communication has been implicated in myriad human behaviors and diseases, yet how serotonin communicates and how the communication is regulated remain unclear due to limitations of available monitoring tools. Here, we report a method multiplexing genetically encoded sensor-based imaging and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, enabling simultaneous recordings of synaptic, perisynaptic, proximate and distal extrasynaptic serotonergic transmission. Employing this method alongside a genetically encoded sensor-based image analysis program (GESIAP), we discovered that heterogeneous firing patterns of serotonergic neurons create various transmission modes in the mouse raphe nucleus and amygdala, encoding information of firing pulse frequency, number, and synchrony using neurotransmitter quantity, releasing synapse count, and synaptic and/or volume transmission. During tonic and low-frequency phasic activities, serotonin is confined within synaptic clefts due to efficient retrieval by perisynaptic transporters, mediating synaptic transmission modes. Conversely, during high-frequency, especially synchronized phasic activities, or when transporter inhibition, serotonin may surpass transporter capacity, and escape synaptic clefts through 1‒3 outlet channels, leading to volume transmission modes. Our results elucidate a mechanism of how channeled synaptic enclosures, synaptic properties, and transporters collaborate to define the coding principles of activity pattern-dependent serotonergic transmission modes.
ALLTogether recommendations for biobanking samples from patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Trinquand Amélie , Leveson James , Barbosa Ana Lúcia , Gameiro Paula , Vesterinen Tiina , Lammens Tim , Drost Thomas , Moorman Anthony V. , de Haas Valérie , Bond Jonathan , Boer Judith M. ,   on behalf of the Biobank Committee of the ALLTogether Consortium, de Haas Valérie , Persoon Marion , Thomson Anne , Bergenstråhle Karolin , Thastrup Maria , zur Stadt Udo , Behrmann Lena , Uyttebroeck Anne , Caye Aurélie , Strullu Marion , Jou Munoz Cristina , Castleton Anna
Published: February 2025

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a rare and heterogeneous disease. The ALLTogether consortium has implemented a treatment protocol to improve outcome and reduce treatment-related toxicity across much of Europe. The consortium provides the opportunity to design translational research on patient material stored in national biobanks. However, there are currently no standardized guidelines for the types of material, processing, and storage for leukaemia biobanking. To address this gap, we conducted a modified Delphi survey among 53 experts in different roles related to leukaemia. The first round consisted of 63 statements asking for level of agreement. The second round refined some to reach consensus, using yes-no and multiple-option answers. Key recommendations include cryopreservation of cells from diagnosis, post-induction, post-consolidation, and relapse, with at least two aliquots of plasma and serum, and cerebrospinal fluid from diagnosis, day15, and post-induction. It was advised to distribute cells across multiple vials for various research projects, and to collect data on sample processing, cell viability, and blast percentage. Quality monitoring and user feedback were strongly recommended. The Delphi survey resulted in strong recommendations that can be used by national biobanks to harmonize storage of samples from patients with ALL and ensure high-quality cryopreserved cells for research studies.