bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithmic approach to finding people with multiple sclerosis using routine healthcare data in Wales
Authors: Nicholas Richard , Tallantyre Emma Clare , Witts James , Marrie Ruth Ann , Craig Elaine M , Knowles Sarah , Pearson Owen Rhys , Harding Katherine , Kreft Karim , Hawken J , Ingram Gillian , Morgan Bethan , Middleton Rodden M , Robertson Neil , Research Group UKMS Register
Published: May 2024

Background

Identification of multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in routine healthcare data repositories remains challenging. MS can have a protracted diagnostic process and is rarely identified as a primary reason for admission to the hospital. Difficulties in identification are compounded in systems that do not include insurance or payer information concerning drug treatments or non-notifiable disease.

Aim

To develop an algorithm to reliably identify MS cases within a national health data bank.

Method

Retrospective analysis of the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) databank was used to identify MS cases using a novel algorithm. Sensitivity and specificity were tested using two existing independent MS datasets, one clinically validated and population-based and a second from a self-registered MS national registry.

Results

From 4 757 428 records, the algorithm identified 6194 living cases of MS within Wales on 31 December 2020 (prevalence 221.65 (95% CI 216.17 to 227.24) per 100 000). Case-finding sensitivity and specificity were 96.8% and 99.9% for the clinically validated population-based cohort and sensitivity was 96.7% for the self-declared registry population.

Discussion

The algorithm successfully identified MS cases within the SAIL databank with high sensitivity and specificity, verified by two independent populations and has important utility in large-scale epidemiological studies of MS.
Efficacy of neuromuscular exercises to promote movement quality and reduce musculoskeletal injury during initial military training in Royal Navy recruits
Authors: Muckelt Paul E , Power C N T , Patterson J , Stevens L , Powell C , Warner M B , Stokes M J , Fallowfield J L
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKIs) are a significant problem in the Royal Navy, contributing to 48% of all medical discharges from service between 2019 and 2020. The objective of the study was to assess efficacy of implementing a neuromuscular training intervention to improve movement quality and reduce MSKIs in Royal Navy recruits undertaking initial military training.

Methods

Neuromuscular training (pre-activation exercises, focusing on hip control) was integrated into the warm-up exercise regimen preceding physical training during the 10-week initial naval training (recruits) programme (January–March 2020) at HMS Raleigh (intervention group; n=162). A control group comprised (n=90) of recruits entering training from January 2019, who completed the standard warm-up programme prior to physical training. Movement control of the intervention group (intervention) was assessed before and after the 10-week programme using the Hip and Lower-Limb Movement Screen (HLLMS). Injury incidence proportion for both groups was determined retrospectively by review of medical notes.

Results

The control group’s MSKI incidence proportion was 31%, which was higher (p<0.05) than the 8% reported in the intervention group. The majority of MSKIs were of the lower limb, and were reported in weeks 1, 2 and 5 of the 10-week training programme. Movement control, as assessed by the HLLMS score, improved (pretraining (week 1) and post-training (week 10) HLLMS score (mean (SD) pre: 11.2 (5.6); post: 8.4 (3.9); t=5.829, p<0.001) following the neuromuscular training in the intervention group but was not assessed in the control group.

Conclusion

A neuromuscular control intervention was successfully implemented during the initial military training in the Royal Navy. The cohort undertaking the intervention demonstrated lower injury incidence compared with an equivalent cohort of recruits who undertook standard training. Movement control improved following the intervention, indicating better movement quality. Continued use of the programme may reduce military training attrition in the Royal Navy.
Association between speckle tracking echocardiography and pressure-volume loops during cardiogenic shock development
Authors: Frederiksen Peter Hartmund , Linde Louise , Gregers Emilie , Udesen Nanna Louise Junker , Helgestad Ole K , Banke Ann , Dahl Jordi Sanchez , Povlsen Amalie L , Jensen Lisette Okkels , Larsen Jeppe P , Lassen Jens , Schmidt Henrik , Ravn Hanne Berg , Moller Jacob Eifer
Published: May 2024

Background

The relationship between speckle tracking assessed global longitudinal strain (GLS) and Doppler-based echocardiography with basic physiological markers of cardiac function derived from pressure-volume loops is poorly elucidated.

Objective

We aimed to describe the association between LS and Doppler-based echocardiography and direct measurements of central haemodynamic parameters from conductance catheter-based pressure-volume loops in an animal model with increasing left ventricular (LV) dysfunction.

Methods

12 Danish landrace female pigs (75–80 kg) were used. All instrumentations were performed percutaneously, including the conductance catheter in the LV. Progressive LV dysfunction was induced by embolisation through the left main coronary artery with microspheres every 3 min until a >50% reduction in cardiac output (CO) or mixed venous saturation (SvO2), compared with baseline, or SvO2<30%. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and 90 s after each injection.

Results

With progressive LV dysfunction, mean CO decreased from 5.6±0.9 L/min to 2.1±0.9 L/min, and mean SvO2deteriorated from 61.1±7.9% to 35.3±6.1%. Mean LS and LV outflow tract velocity time integral (LVOT VTI) declined from −13.8±3.0% to −6.1±2.0% and 16.9±2.6 cm to 7.8±1.8 cm, respectively. LS and LVOT VTI showed the strongest correlation to stroke work in unadjusted linear regression (r2=0.53 and r2=0.49, respectively). LS correlated significantly with stroke volume, end-systolic elastance, systolic blood pressure, ventriculo-arterial coupling and arterial elastance.

Conclusion

In an animal model of acute progressive LV dysfunction, echocardiographic and conductance catheter-based measurements changed significantly. LS and LVOT VTI displayed the earliest and the largest alterations with increased myocardial damage and both correlated strongest with stroke work.
Analysis of Philip Morris International’s ‘aspirational’ target for its 2025 cigarette shipments
Authors: Mehegan John , Gallagher Allen , Elmitwalli Sherif , Edwards Richard , Gilmore Anna
Published: May 2024

Background

Philip Morris International (PMI) claims to be transforming and has committed to a ‘smoke-free’ future. In 2020, it announced an ‘aspirational’ target for reduced cigarette shipments by 2025.

Methods

PMI cigarette shipment data are taken from PMI quarterly financial reports 2008–2023. Trends in these data before and after the 2020 announcement are analysed using linear regression, and auto regressive integrated moving average and error, trend, seasonal time-series models to assess if PMI’s 2025 target would be met on pre-existing trends, and if the trend changed after the announcement. These trends are also compared with the global retail market for cigarettes, using sales data from Euromonitor.

Results

Findings were consistent across all three models. PMI’s shipment target of 550 billion cigarette sticks by 2025 would readily have been met given pre-existing shipment trends. Following the 2020 announcement, the decline in PMI cigarette shipments stalled markedly with a statistically significant change in trend (p<0.001). The current and projected trend to 2025 is consistent with no further decline in cigarette volumes, meaning PMI is unlikely to hit its target. This mirrors a global pattern in which declines in cigarette sales have stalled since 2020.

Conclusions

PMI’s 2025 target was not ‘aspirational’ but highly conservative—it would have been met based on pre-existing trends in declining cigarette shipments. Yet PMI will nonetheless fail to meet that target providing evidence it is not transforming. Stalling of the decline of PMI and global cigarette sales raises significant concerns about progress in global tobacco control.
Surgical frontiers in war zones: perspectives and challenges of a humanitarian surgeon in conflict environments
Authors: Ferreira Carlos , Correia Mariana
Published: May 2024

This opinion article delves into the complexities of surgical care in conflict zones, highlighting the challenges and ethical considerations faced by humanitarian surgeons. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local healthcare professionals and specialized training programs in preparing surgeons for the unique demands of conflict trauma and war surgery.
IS CHINA REALLY A “POLLUTION HAVEN”: HOW FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT SHAPE CARBON EMISSION IN CHINA? EVIDENCE FROM 265 CHINESE PREFECTURE-LEVEL CITIES
Authors: YU XIAO , YANG WEICHENG , ZHOU YING , JI WANTING
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the applicability of the well-known “Pollution Haven” hypothesis and “Pollution Halo” hypothesis at the city-level in contemporary China. The fixed effect model and the threshold effect model are employed to investigate the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and carbon emission in 265 Chinese prefecture-level cites. Based on the entire sample, the results of fixed effect model support the applicability of “Pollution Haven” hypothesis, while the hypothesis is substantiated primarily in eastern and western China. In contrast, the central part of China does not conform to either hypothesis, suggesting that the emergence of a distinct “Pollution Haven Basin” within the country. Unlike the inverted “U-shaped” curve commonly posited in the existing literature, the threshold effect model unveils a “U-shaped” connection between FDI and carbon emission. Specifically, we find that the turning point is at around $52.93 million, which implies that FDI needs to surpass a certain threshold to actively drive carbon emission in the presence of a “Pollution Haven Engine”. Accordingly, in the context of more in-depth international trade and China’s carbon neutralization commitment, it would be wise for the Chinese local governments to control the FDI scale, and encourage FDI to tilt toward the clean sectors.
DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF FUZZY-FRACTIONAL WU–ZHANG SYSTEM USING HE–MOHAND ALGORITHM
Authors: QAYYUM MUBASHIR , AHMAD EFAZA , SOHAIL MUHAMMAD , SARHAN NADIA , AWWAD EMAD MAHROUS , IQBAL AMJAD
Published: May 2024

In recent years, fuzzy and fractional calculus are utilized for simulating complex models with uncertainty and memory effects. This study is focused on fuzzy-fractional modeling of (2+1)-dimensional Wu–Zhang (WZ) system. Caputo-type time-fractional derivative and triangular fuzzy numbers are employed in the model to observe uncertainties in the presence of non-local and memory effects. The extended He–Mohand algorithm is proposed for the solution and analysis of the current model. This approach is based on homotopy perturbation method along with Mohand transformation. Effectiveness of proposed methodology at upper and lower bounds is confirmed through residual errors. The theoretical convergence of proposed algorithm is proved alongside numerical computations. Existence and uniqueness of solution are also theoretically proved in the given paper. Current investigation considers three types of fuzzifications i.e. fuzzified equations, fuzzified conditions, and finally fuzzification in both model and conditions. Different physical aspects of WZ system profiles are analyzed through 2D and 3D illustrations at upper and lower bounds. The obtained results highlight the impact of uncertainty on WZ system in fuzzy-fractional space. Hence, the proposed methodology can be used for other fuzzy-fractional systems for better accuracy with lesser computational cost.
ON THE PERIODIC SOLITON SOLUTIONS FOR FRACTIONAL SCHRÖDINGER EQUATIONS
Authors: ALI RASHID , KUMAR DEVENDRA , AKGÜL ALI , ALTALBE ALI
Published: May 2024

In this research, we use a novel version of the Extended Direct Algebraic Method (EDAM) namely generalized EDAM (gEDAM) to investigate periodic soliton solutions for nonlinear systems of fractional Schrödinger equations (FSEs) with conformable fractional derivatives. The FSEs, which is the fractional abstraction of the Schrödinger equation, grasp notable relevance in quantum mechanics. The proposed gEDAM technique entails creating nonlinear ordinary differential equations via a fractional complex transformation, which are then solved to acquire soliton solutions. Several 3D and contour graphs of the soliton solutions reveal periodicity in the wave profiles that offer crucial perspectives into the behavior of the system. The work sheds light on the dynamics of FSEs by displaying numerous families of periodic soliton solutions and their intricate relationships. These results hold significance not only for comprehending the dynamics of FSEs but also for nonlinear fractional partial differential equation applications.
The Game with a “Life-Line” for Simple Harmonic Motions of Objects
Authors: Azamov Abdulla , Samatov Bahrom , Soyibboev Ulmasjon
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this work is to study the pursuit-evasion problem and the “Life-line” game for two objects (called Pursuer and Evader) with simple harmonic motion dynamics of the same type in the Euclidean space. In this case, the objects move by controlled acceleration vectors. The controls of the objects are subject to geometrical constraints. In the pursuit problem, the strategy of parallel pursuit (in brief, the [Formula: see text]-strategy) is suggested for the Pursuer, and by this strategy a capture condition is achieved. In the evasion problem, a constant control function is offered for the Evader, and an evasion condition is derived. Employing the [Formula: see text]-strategy we generate an analytic formula for the attainability domain of the Evader (the set of all the meeting points of the objects), and we prove the Petrosjan type theorem describing that the attainability domain is monotonically decreasing with respect to the inclusion in time. In the “Life-line” problem, first, by virtue of the [Formula: see text]-strategy solvability conditions to the advantage of the Pursuer are achieved and next, in constructing a reachable domain of the Evader by a control function, solvability conditions to the advantage of the Evader are identified. Differential games under harmonic motions are more complex owing to some troubles in determining optimal strategies and in building the meeting domain of objects. Accordingly, such types of games have not been fairly investigated than the simple motion games. From this point of view, studying the pursuit, evasion, and “Life-line” problems for oscillated motions arouses a special interest.
Iteratively reweighted least squares for block sparse signal recovery with unconstrained l2,p minimization
Authors: Cai Yun , Zhang Qian , Hu Ruifang
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we study an unconstrained [Formula: see text] minimization and its associated iteratively reweighted least squares algorithm (UBIRLS) for recovering block sparse signals. Wang et al. [Y. Wang, J. Wang and Z. Xu, On recovery of block-sparse signals via mixed [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] norm minimization, EURASIP J. Adv. Signal Process. 2013(76) (2013) 76] have used numerical experiments to show the remarkable performance of UBIRLS algorithm for recovering a block sparse signal, but no theoretical analysis such as convergence and convergence rate analysis of UBIRLS algorithm was given. We focus on providing convergence and convergence rate analysis of UBIRLS algorithm for block sparse recovery problem. First, the convergence of UBIRLS is proved strictly. Second, based on the block restricted isometry property (block RIP) of linear measurement matrix [Formula: see text], we give the error bound analysis of the UBIRLS algorithm. Lastly, we also characterize the local convergence behavior of the UBIRLS algorithm. The simplicity of UBIRLS algorithm, along with the theoretical guarantees provided in this paper, will make a compelling case for its adoption as a standard tool for block sparse recovery.
Construction of Accounting Fraud and Its Audit Countermeasure Model Based on Computer Technology
Authors: Wang Yuanbao , Zhu Guangliang
Published: May 2024

A prediction model of financial fraud of listed companies based on machine learning method is proposed to predict financial fraud of listed companies. Using the data set of Chinese listed companies from 2000 to 2020 as observation samples, Benford’s Law, LOF local anomaly method and SMOTE oversample were adopted, grey samples were excluded, and characteristic variables were selected from five aspects: fraud motivation, solvency, profitability, cash flow and operating capacity. The financial fraud identification model Xscore is established based on the XGBoost method. The Xscore model can improve the accuracy of model prediction, and is superior to the Fscore model and Cscore model in accuracy, recall rate, AUC index, KS value, PSI stability, etc. It is more suitable for predicting the financial fraud of listed companies in China. The results of this study are helpful in promoting the research and application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in accounting, and provide references for promoting the disclosure of high-quality financial information by listed companies and maintaining the order of the capital market.
How much can ChatGPT really help computational biologists in programming?
Authors: Rahman Chowdhury Rafeed , Wong Limsoon
Published: May 2024

ChatGPT, a recently developed product by openAI, is successfully leaving its mark as a multi-purpose natural language based chatbot. In this paper, we are more interested in analyzing its potential in the field of computational biology. A major share of work done by computational biologists these days involve coding up bioinformatics algorithms, analyzing data, creating pipelining scripts and even machine learning modeling and feature extraction. This paper focuses on the potential influence (both positive and negative) of ChatGPT in the mentioned aspects with illustrative examples from different perspectives. Compared to other fields of computer science, computational biology has (1) less coding resources, (2) more sensitivity and bias issues (deals with medical data), and (3) more necessity of coding assistance (people from diverse background come to this field). Keeping such issues in mind, we cover use cases such as code writing, reviewing, debugging, converting, refactoring, and pipelining using ChatGPT from the perspective of computational biologists in this paper.
An extension of quaternionic metrics to octonions in a non-Riemannian spacetime: Including Yang–Mills-like fields within a division octonion algebra
Authors: Marques-Bonham Sirley , Matzner Richard , Chanyal Bhupesh Chandra
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we develop an extended space-time geometry that includes an internal space built with division octonions with realization via Pauli matrices and Zorn (vectorial) matrices. Here, we extend a former field theory that used split octonion algebra to a division octonion algebra on a non-Riemannian manifold. The octonionic algebra is the last possible algebra allowed by the Hurwitz theorem. The interpretation of the “octonionic field” in this division octonionic algebra is not straightforward, however it behaves in a similar way to the quaternionic Yang–Mills fields. Former work suggests that this Yang–Mills-like octonionic field is associated with the field governing quarks within nucleons. In this work, we discover that the inclusion of octonionic fields in the geometry of an internal space necessarily excludes the quaternionic (Yang–Mills) fields in an extended non-Riemannian geometry. This is not what is expected from the standpoint of a “unified” field theory, which leads us to propose a different approach to Einstein’s unified field theory.
On the invariants of L-functions of degree 2, I: Twisted degree and internal shift
Authors: Kaczorowski Jerzy , Perelli Alberto
Published: May 2024

This is the first part of a series of papers where the behavior of the invariants under twist by Dirichlet characters is studied for L-functions of degree 2. Here we show, under suitable conditions, that degree and internal shift remain unchanged under twist. The ultimate goal of the series is to prove a general version of Weil converse theorem with minimal assumptions on the shape of the functional equation of the twists.
Preparation and electromagnetic wave absorption properties of CAU-Al MOF and graphene oxide aerogel composites
Authors: Li Yuqi , Xu Jianghong , Guo Sujuan
Published: May 2024

The application of microwave technology has penetrated all aspects of life, but also lead to the electromagnetic pollution, therefore the research of high efficiency microwave absorption materials has been widely concerned. In this work, a new type of Al based CAU-10-H MOF was prepared by hydrothermal method. The particles were polyhedral in size of 2 [Formula: see text]m. After high temperature annealing, the interplanar spacing increased with the annealing temperature, and the lattice structure was destroyed at 400[Formula: see text]C. CAU-Al/rGO aerogels were prepared by freeze-drying of hydrogels. With the increase of CAU-Al content and the annealing temperature, the carbon crystallinity decreases, and the pores of the aerogels became larger and fluffier. The real parts of permittivity of CAU-Al/rGO aerogels were between 5 and 30, which can be tuned by the annealing temperature and CAU-Al content. For the microwave absorption performance, the CAU-Al/rGO aerogel with a ratio of 3:1 achieved the minimum reflection loss of − 37.8 dB at 3 mm. Moreover, the CAU-Al/rGO aerogels showed a wide effective bandwidth, which reached 5.1 GHz under the thickness of 2.5 mm. Therefore, the CAU-Al/rGO aerogels could be used as a kind of broadband microwave absorber with excellent microwave absorption performance.
Hierarchical HAp–AuNR hybrid microspheres as pH/NIR sensitive drug carrier for photothermal/chemo synergic therapy
Authors: Chang Guanru , Ji Mingxiang , Qi Zhaopeng , Chen Long , Zhang Haitao , Yuan Ye , Lan Yansu
Published: May 2024

To integrate pH/NIR dual-responsive drug release mechanisms with multimodal therapies for effective treatment of malignant tumors, hierarchical hydroxyapatite (HAp)/AuNR hybrid microspheres, consisting of a hollow HAp core and an AuNR shell, were facilely synthesized using phytic acid (IP6) as a sustainable template and phosphorus source. Urea served as the pore-forming agent and pH regulator during the synthesis process. The integration of AuNR into multifunctional HAp systems enabled NIR-responsive controllable drug release and photothermal ablation specifically at the tumorigenic site. The aggregation of AuNR within and outside the hybrid microspheres effectively hinders the release of doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) from the hollow HAp microspheres, mitigating the initial burst release and minimizing side effects. The results indicate that the h-HAp/AuNR hybrid exhibited remarkable drug loading efficiency (159.9[Formula: see text]g ⋅ mg[Formula: see text]), with drug release exhibiting pH-dependent behavior due to the dissolution of HAp in acidic environments. Furthermore, MTT assays and fluorescence imaging demonstrate that DOX-loaded h-HAp/AuNR significantly enhance antitumor efficacy, achieving a cell survival rate of 12.3% at a concentration of 100[Formula: see text]g ⋅ mL. This integrated system offers a promising approach for combined chemotherapeutic delivery and NIR photothermal therapy.
About this title - Alkaline Rocks: Economic and Geodynamic Significance through Geological Time
Authors: Pandey R. , Pandey A. , Krmíček L. , Cucciniello C. , Müller D.
Published: May 2024

The term ‘alkaline rocks’ comprises alkali basalts, tephrites, phonolites, trachytes and their plutonic equivalents, including carbonatites and lamprophyres. Their study can aid the interpretation of ancient terranes and their geodynamic setting. Alkaline rocks may also host precious- and rare-metal mineralization, the latter representing critical commodities for modern green-energy technologies.
Intraplate alkali basalts related to end-Cretaceous Deccan magmatism: implications for tectonomagmatic processes
Authors: Chattopadhaya Soumi , Ghosh Biswajit , Liu Chuan-Zhou , Bandyopadhyay Debaditya , Roy Sankhadeep , Dhar Archisman , Koley Manojit , Kumar Deepak
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the earliest imprint of Deccan rift magmatism as preserved in alkali basalts from the northwestern Indian shield. The alkali basalts are petrographically classified as nephelinites and basanites. They are silica undersaturated and their high Mg numbers, CaO/Al
2
O
3
, Cr and Ni indicate their primitive character. Geochemically, they are similar to global ocean island basalts; their bulk rock trace elements and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopic signatures suggest their derivation from a garnet-bearing peridotite field. However, their elevated values of Sr/Sm, Sm/Hf, Zr/Hf, Nb/Ta; positive Ba, Sr and negative Zr, Hf spikes suggest that the magma source represents a mixture of garnet peridotites and carbonated melts. Estimated primary melt compositions closely follow the trajectory defined by the high-pressure experimental partial melting trend of a low-carbonated peridotite source. The melting environment approximates to a high mantle potential temperature. A low
87
Sr/
86
Sr ratio and a negative correlation between
176
Hf/
177
Hf and
143
Nd/
144
Nd of the alkali basalts suggest that the mantle source is a mixture of a depleted Indian MORB-type mantle and an enriched mantle type 2. We correlate this event with the melting of the leading edge of the Réunion plume head during Gondwana break-up in a relatively short span of the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary.
Perceptions of a Robot That Interleaves Tasks for Multiple Users
Authors: Carter Elizabeth J. , Vichivanives Peerat , Xing Ruijia , Hiatt Laura M. , Rosenthal Stephanie
Published: May 2024

When robots have multiple tasks to perform, they must determine the order in which to complete them. Interleaving tasks is efficient for the robot trying to finish its to-do list, but it may be less satisfying for a human whose request was delayed in favor of schedule efficiency. Following online research that examined delays with various motivations, we created two in-person studies in which participants’ tasks were impacted by the robot’s other tasks. In the first, participants either requested a task for the robot to complete on their behalf or watched the robot performing tasks for other people. We measured how their opinions changed depending on whether their task’s completion was delayed due to another participant’s task or they were observing without a task of their own. In the second, participants had a robot walk them to an office and became delayed as the robot detoured to another location. We measured how opinions of the robot changed depending on who requested the detour task and the length of the detour. Overall, participants positively viewed task interleaving as long as the delay and inconvenience imposed by someone else’s task were small and the task was well-justified. Also, observers often had lower opinions of the robot than participants who requested tasks, highlighting a concern for online research.
Self-attentive Rationalization for Interpretable Graph Contrastive Learning
Authors: Li Sihang , Luo Yanchen , Zhang An , Wang Xiang , Li Longfei , Zhou Jun , Chua Tat-Seng
Published: May 2024

Graph augmentation is the key component to reveal instance-discriminative features of a graph as its rationale—an interpretation for it—in graph contrastive learning (GCL). Existing rationale-aware augmentation mechanisms in GCL frameworks roughly fall into two categories and suffer from inherent limitations: (1) non-heuristic methods with the guidance of domain knowledge to preserve salient features, which require expensive expertise and lack generality, or (2) heuristic augmentations with a co-trained auxiliary model to identify crucial substructures, which face not only the dilemma between system complexity and transformation diversitybut also the instability stemming from the co-training of two separated sub-models. Inspired by recent studies on transformers, we propose self-attentive rationale-guided GCL (SR-GCL), which integrates rationale generator and encoder together, leverages the self-attention values in transformer module as a natural guidance to delineate semantically informative substructures from both node- and edge-wise perspectives, and contrasts on rationale-aware augmented pairs. On real-world biochemistry datasets, visualization results verify the effectiveness and interpretability of self-attentive rationalization, and the performance on downstream tasks demonstrates the state-of-the-art performance of SR-GCL for graph model pre-training. Codes are available at
https://github.com/lsh0520/SR-GCL
.
Electropolishing with Low Mass Loss for Additive Manufacturing of Ti6Al4V in Zinc Chloride-Urea Deep-Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Tang Changbin , Li Xue , Tang Jingang , Ren Kang , Xue Juanqin
Published: May 2024

A novel electropolishing approach for Ti6Al4V was developed involving a zinc chloride (ZnCl2)-urea deep-eutectic polishing system, with current density of 0.6 A cm−2, temperature of 90 °C, stirring speed of 260 rpm, and polishing time of 10 min. The system achieved a polished surface with 73% reduction in surface roughness. Compared with other electropolishing processes, the system decreased material mass loss rate following electropolishing of titanium alloys, making it suitable for surface polishing of additively or conventionally melt-cast fabricated titanium alloys. Using the deep-eutectic solvent for electropolishing of Ti6Al4V not only improves surface hydrophobicity, but also enhances electrochemical corrosion resistance. Furthermore, compared with electropolishing behaviour in green nonaqueous solvents, a similar electropolishing mechanism occurred in deep-eutectic solvents, but the electropolishing efficiency in the ZnCl2-urea deep-eutectic system was higher, and its surface mass loss become lower than that of the sodium chloride-glycol electropolishing systems. The developed system provided a new approach for surface finishing of titanium alloys and has great potential for engineering applications.
Investigating Capacity Fade Mechanisms in Dual-Ion Mg-MCl
x
Batteries
Authors: Stradley Steven H. , Jones John-Paul , Bugga Ratnakumar V. , See Kimberly A.
Published: May 2024

Mg batteries are a promising alternative to Li-based chemistries due to the high abundance, low cost, and high volumetric capacity of Mg relative to Li. Mg is also less prone to dendritic plating morphologies, promising safer operation. Mg plating and stripping is highly efficient in chloride-containing electrolytes; however, chloride is incompatible with many candidate cathode materials. In this work, we capitalize on the positive effect of chloride by using transition metal chloride cathodes with a focus on low cost, Earth-abundant metals. Both soluble and sparingly soluble chlorides show capacity fade upon cycling. Active material dissolution and subsequent crossover to the Mg anode are the primary drivers of capacity fade in highly soluble metal chloride cathodes. We hypothesize that incomplete conversion and chemical reduction by the Grignard-based electrolyte are major promoters of capacity fade in sparingly soluble metal chlorides. Modifications to the electrolyte can improve capacity retention, suggesting that future work in this system may yield low cost, high retention Mg-MClx batteries.
Demystifying the Distribution of Relaxation Times: A Simulation-Based Investigation into the Limits and Possibilities of Interpretation for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Rüther Tom , Hileman Wesley , Plett Gregory L. , Trimboli M. Scott , Danzer Michael A.
Published: May 2024

Interpreting impedance spectra of electrochemical systems using the distribution of relaxation times analysis remains an incompletely solved task. This study carefully examines various challenges related to the interpretation of resulting distributions of relaxation times using a closed-form lumped Doyle-Fuller-Newman model. First, the physical and phenomenological interpretation of peaks in the distribution of relaxation times are analyzed through a global sensitivity analysis. Second, the assignment of processes to specific ranges of time constants is investigated. Third, the use of half cells for the characterization of full cells is examined, and the clear limitations associated with the use of lithium metal counter electrodes are pointed out. Furthermore, the study provides first insights into the effects of distributed processes such as charge transfer, double-layer effects, and solid-state diffusion. Several prevailing interpretations in the literature are challenged and new insights and guidelines for interpreting distributions of relaxation times are offered.
Understanding Performance Limitation of Liquid Alkaline Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Wang Guanzhi , Tricker Andrew , Lang Jack T. , Wang Jianxin , Zenyuk Iryna , Liu Di-Jia , Mukundan Rangachary , Peng Xiong
Published: May 2024

Liquid alkaline water electrolyzers (LAWEs), being the most commercially mature electrolysis technology, play a pivotal role in large-scale hydrogen production. However, LAWEs suffer from low operational efficiency, primarily due to un-optimized electrode structure and chemical compositions. Thus, we investigated how various electrode configurations could impact LAWE performance. Our results show that Ni felt electrodes outperform the conventional Ni foam thanks to improved electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) and preferred electrode surface structure that minimizes the micro-gaps in between the electrode and separator. By comparing the stainless steel (SS) felt electrodes with Ni felt electrodes, SS not only shows better oxygen evolution reaction activity but also improved hydrogen evolution reaction activity, which is less studied in the literature. We also show that a bilayer structure with small pore radius facing the separator could further improve LAWE performance by further optimizing interfacial contact between electrode and separator. These findings enable LAWEs to sustain 2 A cm−2 at 2.2 V and operate steadily at 1 A cm−2 for nearly 600 h with negligible performance decay. Our studies establish criteria for selecting electrodes to achieve high-performance LAWE and, in turn, expedite the adoption of LAWEs in hydrogen production and the transition towards low-carbon economies.
Characterization, Dielectric Analysis and Thermal Properties of Novel Flexible Polymer Composite Films
Authors: Abdeltwab E. , Atta A. , Al-Yousef Haifa A. , Abdelhamied M. M.
Published: May 2024

In this work, mixtures of polypyrrole (PPy) and iron oxide (Fe2O3) are synthesized using oxidative chemical polymerization process to create a novel flexible PET/(PPy-Fe2O3) composite films. The films were characterized by different methods as FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA to prove the efficient manufacturing of the composite. The dielectric performance measurements were done at frequency of 20 Hz to 6 MHz for the polymer PET and the composite (PPy-Fe2O3)/PET with varying concentrations of Fe2O3. Moreover, to reveal the characteristics of the fabricated composite, the contact angle, the work of adhesion, surface energy of the composite PET/(PPy-Fe2O3) films were considerably determined. The SEM results support the deposition of PPy-Fe2O3 composite on the PET surface. The water contact angle drops from 78.32° for PET to 40.11° for PET/6%(PPy-Fe2O3), while the dispersive free energy raised from 23.9 mJ m−2 to 43.7 mJ m−2and the polar free energy rises from 8.9 mJ m−2 to 22.3 mJ m−2. The concentration of Fe2O3 increased the surface features of the samples, according to the obtained results. At frequency of 100 Hz, the dielectric constant enhanced from 18 for PET to 923 for the PET/6%(PPy-Fe2O3), and the dielectric loss improved from 24 to 9231, while the energy density improved fromm 7.9 × 10−5 J/m3 for PET to 408 × 10−5 J m−3. The TGA results show marginal modifications in thermal stability after deposition the PPy/Fe2O3 on the PET film. The obtained data showed the dielectric characteristics of the PET/(PPy-Fe2O3) were improved respect to polymer PET, to can be applied the fabricated composite in storage devices and capacitors.
An Efficient Propagation Approach to Forcing Softwood Shoots from Epicormic Buds and Subsequent Rooting of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu
Authors: Maqbool Muhammad Nadeem , Aftab Faheem
Published: May 2024

The current research describes the multiplication of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu, a timber plant, through the forcing of softwood shoots from epicormic buds under glasshouse conditions in spring and fall seasons. Different growth media were used to compare their effect on the forcing potential of epicormic buds. For this, 25–30-cm-long and 1.2–2-cm-diameter stem segments taken from the lower juvenile portion of a mother plant were placed horizontally in flat trays containing media, i.e., sterilized well-moistened sand, peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite individually. Furthermore, 4–6-cm-long forced softwood shoots were detached and treated with various concentrations of IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) and NAA (α-naphthyl acetic acid) either individually or in combinations for subsequent rooting. The response of shoot forcing was better in spring as compared to fall in terms of shoot length (cm), and number of shoots or leaves; however, an earlier bud break was observed during fall after 30 days of the initial experiment. The use of peat moss and vermiculite proved to be equally suitable for early bud break in both seasons, whereas in terms of shoot and leaf number as well as the shoot length (cm), the best outcome was observed in sand. Best rooting was observed at 3 gL−1 IBA + 3 gL−1 NAA in terms of root number per shoot, root length (cm), and days to root initiation while using sand as the growth medium after 50 days of the rooting experiment. The successfully established plantlets were further shifted to soil at Botanical Garden, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, exhibiting an 87.5% survival rate. On the basis of the results obtained, it may be concluded that reasonable softwood shoot forcing in P. elongata may further be exploited for its mass scale nursery propagation as well as use in future in vitro studies.
Jehovah’s Witness Needing Critical Care: A Narrative Review on the Expanding Arsenal
Authors: Davids Ryan , Robinson Gareth , Van Tonder Charmé , Robinson Jordan , Ahmed Nadiyah , Domingo Abdurragmaan
Published: May 2024

Present day Jehovah’s Witness (JW) religion accounts for 8.5 million followers. A tenant feature of the JW faith is religious objection to transfusions of blood and blood products. Interpatient variability, as it pertains to blood and blood products may occur; hence, a confidential interview will determine which products individual may consent to (Marsh and Bevan, 2002). This belief and practice place great restrictions on treating medical professionals in scenarios of life-threatening anaemia and active haemorrhage. The review to follow explores the physiological and pathophysiological consequences of severe anaemia. Non-blood transfusion practices are explored, many of which are potentially lifesaving. Particular attention is drawn to the evolving science involving artificial oxygen carriers and their use in emergency situations. A greater safety profile ensures its future use amongst religious objectors to be greatly beneficial. Intravenous iron supplementation has enjoyed a lively debate within the critical care community. A review of recent systematic and meta-analysis supports its use in the ICU; however, more investigation is needed into the complementary use of hepcidin.
Flat-Parallel Minkowski Space and β-Change with α,β-Metric
Authors: Tripathi Brijesh Kumar , Khan Sadika
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this paper is to examine the condition for a Finsler space with a generalized α,β-metric to be projectively flat. In addition, we establish that the Finsler space with generalized α,β-metric is a flat-parallel Minkowski space and derive the condition under which the β-change for the aforementioned metric is projective. We also explored the projective nature of β-change for various significant Finsler metrics derived from the generalized α,β-metric.
Let Us Keep the Emergency Department Safe: National Disability Insurance Scheme Supports Workers’ Experiences When Supporting People with Psychosocial Disability in the Emergency Department
Authors: McIntyre Heather , Loughhead Mark , Hayes Laura , Allen Caroline , Barton-Smith Dean , Bickley Brooke , Vega Louis , Smith Jewels , Wharton Ursula , Procter Nicholas
Published: May 2024

Internationally, community healthcare is provided by personal health budgets or personalised schemes as part of a consumer‐directed care emphasis. Although the introduction of a personalised scheme in Australia has improved the lives of many, people with psychosocial disability (PSD) and their families have experienced many challenges with service integration. Six focus groups with 17 National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) support workers were conducted between June and November 2022. Participants were asked semistructured questions about their engagement with emergency department (ED) clinicians when presenting with a person with PSD and NDIS plan. They were also asked how they contribute to service integration to improve communication practices between the two services. A qualitative, descriptive thematic analysis approach was used. Results indicate there is a need for improved service integration pathways between the ED and NDIS services. The thematic analyses identified five main themes: the ED is harmful and not safe, but nowhere else to go; make the ED safe; further training for ED staff; improving communication across services; and alternatives to the ED. This study reports NDIS support worker’s experience when supporting a person they are caring for in the ED. NDIS support workers have an understanding of the needs of the people they care for;their wisdom can contribute greatly to ED clinical responses in crisis care. Recommendations are offered to assist with service integration between the two systems.
Exploring the Composition and Bioactivity of Hedychium flavum Leaf and Stem Essential Oil: In Vitro Assessment of Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Cytotoxicity, and Enzyme Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Ding Furong , Wu Xia , Yang Nian , Niu Jingming , Hong Yi , Tian Minyi
Published: May 2024

Hedychium flavum is an edible, medicinal, and aromatic plant widely cultivated for its essential oil. So far, little studies have been done on its phytoconstituents and bioactivities. Hence, the research aimed to determine the chemical constituents of leaf essential oil (L-EO) and stem essential oil (S-EO) of H. flavum and first estimate their antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and enzyme inhibitory activities. According to gas chromatography-flame ionization detector/mass spectrometer (GC-FID/MS) assay, L-EO was mainly composed of β-pinene (33.4%), α-pinene (10.4%), humulene (6.8%), β-caryophyllene (6.0%), eucalyptol (6.0%), caryophyllene oxide (5.5%), endo-borneol (3.8%), humulene epoxide II (3.7%), and D-limonene (3.2%). The predominant components of S-EO were β-pinene (17.2%), eucalyptol (9.7%), nerolidol (7.8%), α-phellandrene (6.7%), α-pinene (5.8%), β-caryophyllene (5.4%), terpinen-4-ol (4.5%), D-limonene (4.4%), p-cymene (3.7%), endo-borneol (3.5%), and α-terpineol (3.5%). For the bioactivities, L-EO and S-EO showed strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Bacillus subtilis with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 9.77–625.00 µg/mL and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 9.77–1250.00 µg/mL. Both L-EO and S-EO exhibited moderate antioxidant activity in the DPPH (14.52 ± 0.93 mg/mL and 4.73 ± 0.15 mg/mL, respectively) and ABTS (4.05 ± 0.75 mg/mL and 2.38 ± 0.14 mg/mL, respectively) free radical scavenging capacity. S-EO showed selective cytotoxicity on human leukemic K562 cell line (IC50 = 93.94 ± 0.91 µg/mL), which was nearly three times that of noncancer L929 cell line (IC50 = 294.49 ± 9.40 µg/mL). In enzyme inhibitory properties, L-EO exerted a potent inhibition on α-glucosidase (IC50 = 1.03 ± 0.02 mg/mL), and both essential oils had weak inhibition against cholinesterase and tyrosinase. Thus, H. flavum L-EO and S-EO possess antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and enzyme inhibitory activities with potential for exploitation in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
Challenges, Coping, and Personal Strengths during COVID‐19: Lessons from the Experiences of at‐Risk Young Adults in Israel
Authors: Sulimani-Aidan Yafit , Kovach Ilay
Published: May 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly endangers the development of at‐risk young adults across various life domains, with potential enduring consequences. Despite prior reporting on the pandemic’s adverse effects on these individuals, there is a lack of the empirical literature regarding their resilience. Building upon the stress process model (Pearlin, 1978), we explored the challenges of 20 at‐risk young adults (aged 18–25 years) and the strategies and resources they employed to cope with these challenges during this period. Thematic analysis revealed that these young adults struggled with worsened family relationships, loneliness, mental health issues, and setbacks in their quest for independence and autonomy. However, resources and character strengths that facilitated coping strategies during this period also emerged, specifically the motivation to become a role model within their family, personal abilities, and the use of formal and informal support. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
How Does the Interaction of the Human Thermal Plume and Breathing Affect the Microenvironment and Macroenvironment of an Elevator Cabin?
Authors: Pourfattah Farzad , Deng Weiwei , Wang Lian-Ping
Published: May 2024

The details of the interaction of human thermal plume and breathing activities are simulated in the current study of an unsteady turbulent flow field in an elevator cabin. Air velocity and temperature distributions of the circulation flow pattern (i.e., the macroenvironment), the breathing‐scale microenvironment’s characteristics, and the thermal plume’s fate are analyzed. The current study is aimed at showing how respiratory activities such as breathing and human thermal plumes affect the flow field and respiratory contaminants dispersion pattern in a nonventilated enclosed environment (the elevator cabin). The results from three cases, i.e., breathing thermal manikins, nonbreathing thermal manikins, and isothermal breathing manikins, are contrasted to unveil better the effects of human thermal plume and breathing on the flow field, including the velocity distribution, dispersion pattern of the exhaled contaminant, the human body’s heat transfer coefficient, and the large‐scale flow pattern. Results reveal that breathing inhalation increases the upward velocity of the thermal plume on the one hand, which directly affects the microenvironment and indirectly impacts the macroenvironment due to the more vigorous reflected thermal plume. On the other hand, the upward thermal plume reduces the penetration length of the exhaled jet. Breathing activities create ring vortices that connect the microenvironment and the macroenvironment. The circulation flow features a downward flow in the cabin’s center, affecting the vortex strength and contaminant dispersion pattern. Overall, the human thermal plume and human breathing make comparable contributions to the resulting elevator‐cabin flow characteristics.