bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compression of metrological quantum information in the presence of noise
Authors: Salvati Flavio , Salmon Wilfred , Barnes Crispin H. W. , Arvidsson-Shukur David R. M.
Published: August 2024

In quantum metrology, information about unknown parameters θ=(θ1,...,θM) is accessed by measuring probe states ρ̂θ. In experimental settings where copies of ρ̂θ can be produced rapidly (e.g., in optics), the information-extraction bottleneck can stem from high postprocessing costs or detector saturation. In these regimes, it is desirable to compress the information encoded in ρ̂θ⊗n into m<n copies of a postselected state: ρ̂θps⊗m. Remarkably, recent works have shown that, in the absence of noise, compression can be lossless, for m/n arbitrarily small. Here, we fully characterize the family of filters that enable lossless compression. Further, we study the effect of noise on quantum-metrological information amplification. Motivated by experiments, we consider a popular family of filters, which we show is optimal for qubit probes. Further, we show that, for the optimal filter in this family, compression is still lossless if noise acts after the filter. However, in the presence of depolarizing noise before filtering, compression is lossy. In both cases, information extraction can be implemented significantly better than simply discarding a constant fraction of the states, even in the presence of strong noise.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Neutral-pion decay into an electron-positron pair: A review and update
Authors: Husek Tomáš
Published: August 2024

This work aims to review several aspects of the current status of the rare π0→e+e− decay. A particular emphasis is made on radiative corrections and detailed interpretation of related quantities, some numbers appearing in the literature are updated, and the connection with the Dalitz decay, π0→e+e−γ, is discussed. This comes timely as it is aligned with an announcement of a preliminary result of a new branching-ratio measurement done by the NA62 Collaboration, which brings new light into an earlier-reported discrepancy between the Standard Model prediction and the (until-recently latest) precise KTeV result.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
MoEDAL Search in the CMS Beam Pipe for Magnetic Monopoles Produced via the Schwinger Effect
Authors: Acharya B. , Alexandre J. , Behera S. C. , Benes P. , Bergmann B. , Bertolucci S. , Bevan A. , Brancaccio R. , Branzas H. , Burian P. , Campbell M. , Cecchini S. , Cho Y. M. , de Montigny M. , De Roeck A. , Ellis J. R. , Fairbairn M. , Felea D. , Frank M. , Gould O. , Hays J. , Hirt A. M. , Ho D. L.-J. , Hung P. Q. , Janecek J. , Kalliokoski M. , Lacarrère D. H. , Leroy C. , Levi G. , Margiotta A. , Maselek R. , Maulik A. , Mauri N. , Mavromatos N. E. , Millward L. , Mitsou V. A. , Musumeci E. , Ostrovskiy I. , Ouimet P.-P. , Papavassiliou J. , Patrizii L. , Păvălaş G. E. , Pinfold J. L. , Popa L. A. , Popa V. , Pozzato M. , Pospisil S. , Rajantie A. , Ruiz de Austri R. , Sahnoun Z. , Sakellariadou M. , Sakurai K. , Sarkar S. , Semenoff G. , Shaa A. , Sirri G. , Sliwa K. , Soluk R. , Spurio M. , Staelens M. , Suk M. , Tenti M. , Togo V. , Tuszyński J. A. , Upreti A. , Vento V. , Vives O.
Published: August 2024

We report on a search for magnetic monopoles (MMs) produced in ultraperipheral Pb-Pb collisions during Run 1 of the LHC. The beam pipe surrounding the interaction region of the CMS experiment was exposed to 184.07  μb−1 of Pb-Pb collisions at 2.76 TeV center-of-mass energy per collision in December 2011, before being removed in 2013. It was scanned by the MoEDAL experiment using a SQUID magnetometer to search for trapped MMs. No MM signal was observed. The two distinctive features of this search are the use of a trapping volume very close to the collision point and ultrahigh magnetic fields generated during the heavy-ion run that could produce MMs via the Schwinger effect. These two advantages allowed setting the first reliable, world-leading mass limits on MMs with high magnetic charge. In particular, the established limits are the strongest available in the range between 2 and 45 Dirac units, excluding MMs with masses of up to 80 GeV at a 95% confidence level.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Defect Solutions of the Nonreciprocal Cahn-Hilliard Model: Spirals and Targets
Authors: Rana Navdeep , Golestanian Ramin
Published: August 2024

We study the defect solutions of the nonreciprocal Cahn-Hilliard model. We find two kinds of defects, spirals with unit magnitude topological charge, and topologically neutral targets. These defects generate radially outward traveling waves and thus break the parity and time-reversal symmetry. For a given strength of nonreciprocity, spirals and targets with unique asymptotic wave number and amplitude are selected. We use large-scale simulations to show that at low nonreciprocity α, disordered states evolve into quasistationary spiral networks. With increasing α, we observe networks composed primarily of targets. Beyond a critical threshold αc, a disorder-order transition from defect networks to traveling waves emerges. The transition is marked by a sharp rise in the global polar order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Development, evaluation, and gender differences in a novel workshop intervention to narrow the physics gender gap at postcompulsory level
Authors: Lynch Agata , Cauchi Michael , Walshe Gráinne
Published: August 2024

To address the issue of gender disparity in participation in the physics state matriculation exam, a novel school visit program was designed. The program was facilitated by undergraduate university students of physics and related courses who visited schools providing lower secondary education and delivered a single-session workshop including hands-on demonstrations of physics principles, presentations about famous female scientists, information on physics-related careers, and the importance of adopting a growth mindset. In this paper, we present a detailed description of the principles underlying the workshop’s design and its final outline. Participants’ responses to a pre-post questionnaire are analyzed to assess the immediate effects of the workshop, particularly as regards changes in their opinions about physics and students’ intention to study it for their state matriculation exam. Female and male responses are analyzed separately to establish differences in the intervention’s effect between the two genders. Results show an increase among female students with positive perceptions of their physics knowledge and familiarity with physics role models. Our attempt to boost confidence, enjoyment, and perceptions of the relevance of physics proved challenging but yielded some positive results. Strikingly, girls reported positive change in their ability to imagine themselves as physicists and their intention to study physics for their matriculation exam. The intervention was more successful among younger girls. Results obtained from boys were positive but to a lesser extent. The study demonstrates an encouraging and strong positive impact of a uniquely designed, single-session intervention, especially on adolescent girls, and contributes to research on the effectiveness of gender equality-oriented science outreach interventions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
From cell intercalation to flow, the importance of T1 transitions
Authors: Jain Harish P. , Voigt Axel , Angheluta Luiza
Published: August 2024

T1 transitions, also called cell intercalations, are important sources of fluidization of epithelial cell monolayers. We use a multiphase field model to quantify this tissue fluidization in terms of the relative dispersion of cells and characterize the T1 flow profile. We show that the ensemble-averaged flow profile of a T1 transition has a saddle-point pattern accompanied by a localized burst in cell speed. Although the temporal evolution of the relative dispersion of cells depends on specific model details, the different dispersion curves collapse robustly onto a linear function of the number of T1 transitions, implying an important connection between T1 transitions and mixing in dense systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fully Scalable Randomized Benchmarking Without Motion Reversal
Authors: Hines Jordan , Hothem Daniel , Blume-Kohout Robin , Whaley Birgitta , Proctor Timothy
Published: August 2024

We introduce , a protocol that streamlines traditional RB by using circuits consisting almost entirely of independent identically distributed (IID) layers of gates. BiRB reliably and efficiently extracts the average error rate of a Clifford gate set by sending tensor-product eigenstates of random Pauli operators through random circuits with IID layers. Unlike existing RB methods, BiRB does not use motion reversal circuits—i.e., circuits that implement the identity (or a Pauli) operator—which simplifies both the method and the theory proving its reliability. Furthermore, this simplicity enables scaling BiRB to many more qubits than the most widely used RB methods.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Unveiling the dynamics of revisit intention and word-of-mouth: an attribution theory approach to Halal-friendly hotel attributes and service encounter evaluation
Authors: Patwary Ataul Karim , Alam Mirza Mohammad Didarul , Zainol Noor Azimin , Ashraf Muhammad Umair , Alam Mohammad Nurul , Hayat Naeem , khreis Sawsan Haider Abdullah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study examined the revisit intention of tourists in Muslim-friendly hotels in nexus with Halal-friendly hotel attributes (social environment, facilities, food and beverage, locals and staff, and services), corporate image, customer engagement, perceived value, and service encounter evaluation. It further examined the mediating role of corporate image, customer engagement and perceived value between Halal-friendly hotel attributes and service encounter evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured survey instrument, 390 valid responses were gathered from international tourists who visited Malaysia. The collected data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares – Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the assumed relationships.

Findings

The research shows that corporate image (CI), customer engagement (CE), and perceived value (PV) are directly influenced by Halal-friendly hotel attributes (HFHA) and exert influence on service encounter evaluation (SEE). Findings also suggest the mediating effect of CI, CE, and PV between HFHA and SEE. SEE further positively and significantly enhances the revisit intention and positive word-of-mouth.

Practical implications

The findings of this study stipulate that hotel owners should ensure the presence of HFHA in their offers to retain their existing guests and ensure their positive communication towards potential visitors through developing a fascinating image, engagement, and lucrative value.

Originality/value

Grounded on the attribution theory, this study contributes to the Halal tourism literature by exploring the role of Halal-friendly hotel attributes in enhancing the hotel’s image, customer engagement, and perceived value to enhance positive service encounter evaluation and revisiting intention for the hotel.
Drain amylase values for clinically relevant post‐operative pancreatic fistulae
Authors: Burasakarn Pipit , Hongjinda Sermsak , Thienhiran Anuparp , Fuengfoo Pusit
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aims to identify the cut‐off drain amylase (DA) values on the first, third, and fifth post‐operative days (POD1‐DA, POD3‐DA, and POD5‐DA) that are correlated with clinically relevant post‐operative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF).

Patients and Methods

All data were retrospectively collected from patients who underwent pancreatectomy at the Department of Surgery, Phramongkutklao Hospital, from January 2015 to December 2023. A total of 195 patients were included in the study.

Results

A total of 195 patients were analysed, including 35 patients with CR‐POPF, with a mean age of 60.84 years. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic data between patients with CR‐POPF and those without. In addition, no statistical differences were observed in pancreatic duct diameter (3 mm vs 2 mm), operative time (468.9 min vs 500.29 min), or blood loss (600 mL vs 600 mL) between the CR‐POPF and no CR‐POPF groups. Length of hospital stays was longer in the CR‐POPF group compared with the no CR‐POPF group (33 days vs 11 days, P = .001). In addition, the CR‐POPF group had significantly higher rates of post‐operative pancreatic haemorrhage (20% vs 2.5%), bile leakage (5.71% vs 0%), delayed gastric emptying (45.71% vs 3.13%), wound complications (34.29% vs 5%), and mortality (17.14% vs 1.88%) compared with the no CR‐POPF group. The optimal cut‐off values for CR‐POPF were 1313 U/L on day 1 (D1; area under the curve [AUC] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65–0.84, sensitivity 91%, specificity 52%), 492 U/L on D3 (AUC 0.77, 95% CI 0.70–0.83, sensitivity 91%, specificity 64%), and 360 U/L on D5 (AUC 0.65, 95% CI 0.52–0.75, sensitivity 69%, specificity 61%). There were no significant perioperative factors associated with CR‐POPF in our study.

Conclusion

DA levels of 1313, 492, and 360 U/L on post‐operative D1, D3, and D5, respectively, were associated with CR‐POPF. Drain removal can be safely performed without the risk of CR‐POPF when these levels are met.
Laparoscopically assisted diaphragmatic hernia repair with mesh and a myocutaneous flap after left ventricular assist device explantation: A case report
Authors: Kawabata Kota , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Funaki Soichiro , Maeda Daisuke , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Kurokawa Yukinori , Yamamoto Kazuyoshi , Saito Takuro , Momose Kota , Yamashita Kotaro , Tanaka Koji , Makino Tomoki , Kubo Tateki , Shintani Yasushi , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Doki Yuichiro
Published: August 2024

We report the case of a 32‐year‐old man who developed a giant diaphragmatic hernia following the removal of a left ventricular assist device 4 years prior due to improved cardiac function. Chest radiography revealed an intrathoracic prolapse of the gastrointestinal tract. The patient was diagnosed with a diaphragmatic hernia and a laparoscopy‐assisted repair was performed. A 12 × 8 cm hernia was found intraoperatively on the left diaphragm, and a large portion of the gastrointestinal tract had prolapsed into the thoracic cavity. We attempted to repair the ventromedial defect using mesh; however, it was found to be insufficient. Therefore, we used a left rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap to fill the defect and sutured it to the mesh. A myocutaneous flap could be a useful strategy in cases where complete closure with mesh is difficult.
Happy facial expressions and mouse pointing enhance EFL vocabulary learning from instructional videos
Authors: Pi Zhongling , Huang Xuemei , Wen Yun , Wang Qin , Zhao Xin , Li Xiying
Published: August 2024

Given their easy accessibility and dual‐channel model of content presentation, instructional videos have become a favoured tool for EFL vocabulary learning tool among many students. Teachers often use various nonverbal behaviours to elicit social reactions and guide learners' attention in instructional videos. The current study conducted three eye‐tracking experiments to examine the circumstances under which a teacher's happy facial expressions are beneficial in instructional videos, with or without pointing gestures and mouse pointing. Experiments 1 and 2 demonstrated that the combination of happy facial expressions and pointing gestures attracted learners' attention to the teacher and hindered students' learning performance, regardless of the complexity of slides. Experiment 3 showed that in instructional videos with complex slides, using happy facial expressions along with mouse pointing can enhance students' learning performance. Teachers are advised to show happy facial expressions and avoid using pointing gestures when designing instructional videos.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Given easy accessibility and dual‐channel model of content presentation, instructional videos have become a favoured tool for EFL vocabulary learning.

When teachers record instructional videos while standing alongside slides, they often use nonverbal cues to support their speech.

Teachers' social and attentional cues interactively influence students' learning processes and performance.

What this paper adds

A teacher's happy facial expressions evoke more positive emotions and greater motivation in learners compared to bored expressions.

A teacher's pointing gestures, when combined with happy facial expressions, divert students' attention away from slides and towards the teacher.

A teacher's happy facial expressions enhance students' learning performance when no pointing gestures are used in videos with simple slides.

Implications for practice/policy

Teachers are advised to display happy facial expressions and avoid using pointing gestures in instructional videos, regardless of the complexity of the slides.

Practitioners should consider how to incorporate teachers' facial expressions pointing gestures and mouse pointing effectively.
Topical dorzolamide for macular holes: A randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Lee Yong Min , Bahrami Bobak , Baranage Duleepa , Sivagurunathan Premala Devi , Wong Wilson , Bausili Montserrat Maria , Agrawal Surbhi , Gilhotra Jagjit Singh , Durkin Shane , Sia David , Selva Dinesh , Lake Stewart , Casson Robert J. , Chan Weng Onn
Published: August 2024

Background

To assess topical dorzolamide as medical therapy for idiopathic full‐thickness macular holes (FTMHs).

Methods

Randomised, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, single‐centre clinical trial involving 32 patients with idiopathic small FTMHs (<400 ). Participants in both arms used topical dorzolamide 2% or saline thrice daily for 8 weeks with monthly OCT. Those with persisting FTMH underwent vitrectomy with ILM peel and gas tamponade. The primary outcome was the rate of FTMH closure at the end of treatment.

Results

Between 6 March 2020 and 16 June 2023, 32 eligible patients were enrolled: 16 participants in each arm. All participants in both groups were included in the final analysis. At the final visit, 3 of 16 (18.8%) patients in both the topical dorzolamide and placebo group demonstrated closure. There was no statistically significant difference in the proportion of FTMH closure between the control and treatment group (p = 1.00), nor statistically significant difference in the mean change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA; p = 0.909). There was no difference in the change in FTMH diameter between groups (p = 0.225). No serious adverse events were reported in either group.

Conclusion

Topical dorzolamide was safe but not superior to placebo in the functional and anatomical outcomes of FTMH.
Interference of default mode on attention networks in adults with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and its association with genetic variants and treatment outcomes
Authors: Liu Lu , Chen Di , Huang Fang , Jia Tianye , Cheng Wei , Pan Meirong , Zhao Mengjie , Bu Xuan , Liao Xuhong , Wang Yufeng , Cao Miao , Qian Qiujin , Feng Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

Aims

Altered brain functional connectivity has been proposed as the neurobiological underpinnings of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and the default mode interference hypothesis is one of the most popular neuropsychological models. Here, we explored whether this hypothesis is supported in adults with ADHD and the association with high‐risk genetic variants and treatment outcomes.

Methods

Voxel‐based whole‐brain connectome analysis was conducted on resting‐state functional MRI data from 84 adults with ADHD and 89 healthy controls to identify functional connectivity substrates corresponding to ADHD‐related alterations. The candidate genetic variants and 12‐week cognitive behavioral therapy data were leveraged from the same population to assess these associations.

Results

We detected breakdowns of functional connectivity in the precuneus and left middle temporal gyrus in adults with ADHD, with exact contributions from decreased connectivity within the default mode, dorsal and ventral attention networks, as well as increased connectivity among them with the middle temporal gyrus serving as a crucial ‘bridge’. Additionally, significant associations between the altered functional connectivity and genetic variants in both MAOA and MAOB were detected. Treatment restored brain function, with the amelioration of connectivity of the middle temporal gyrus, accompanied by improvements in ADHD core symptoms.

Conclusions

These findings support the interference of default mode on attention in adults with ADHD and its association with genetic risk variants and clinical management, providing insights into the underlying pathogenesis of ADHD and potential biomarkers for treatment evaluation.
Modulating neuroinflammation and cognitive function in postoperative cognitive dysfunction via CCR5‐GPCRs‐Ras‐MAPK pathway targeting with microglial EVs
Authors: Qi Zheng , Peng Junlin , Wang Haitao , Wang Li , Su Yu , Ding Lan , Cao Bin , Zhao Yingying , Xing Qinghe , Yang Jian‐jun
Published: August 2024

Aims

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is prevalent among the elderly, characterized primarily by cognitive decline after surgery. This study aims to explore how extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from BV2 microglial cells, with and without the C‐C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), affect neuroinflammation, neuronal integrity, and cognitive function in a POCD mouse model.

Methods

We collected EVs from LPS‐stimulated BV2 cells expressing CCR5 (EVsM1) and from BV2 cells with CCR5 knockdown (EVsM1‐CCR5). These were administered to POCD‐induced mice. Protein interactions between CCR5, G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), and Ras were analyzed using structure‐based docking and co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP). We assessed the phosphorylation of p38 and Erk, the expression of synaptic proteins PSD95 and MAP2, and conducted Morris Water Maze tests to evaluate cognitive function.

Results

Structure‐based docking and Co‐IP confirmed interactions between CCR5, GPR, and Ras, suggesting a CCR5‐GPCRs‐Ras‐MAPK pathway involvement in neuroinflammation. EVsM1 heightened neuroinflammation, reduced synaptic integrity, and impaired cognitive function in POCD mice. In contrast, EVsM1‐CCR5 reduced neuroinflammatory markers, preserved synaptic proteins, enhanced dendritic spine structure, and improved cognitive outcomes.

Conclusion

EVsM1 induced neuroinflammation via the CCR5‐GPCRs‐Ras‐MAPK pathway, with EVsM1‐CCR5 showing protective effects on POCD progression, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy for POCD management via targeted modification of microglial EVs.
Landscape changes of alpine grasslands in the Zhari Namco basin of the central‐southern Qiangtang plateau, 2001–2021
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Wei , Li Wenjie , Zhang Huixin , Luo Shijia , Ran Qinghong , Qin Jianxiong
Published: August 2024

The alpine grasslands of the Qiangtang Plateau face significant ecological risks due to extensive human activities, particularly in areas along lakeshores and riverbanks, where overgrazing has caused severe degradation and salinization of the grasslands. Conducting fieldwork in such environments presents significant challenges for long‐term community‐scale landscape ecological research. In this study, the habitat characteristics of dominant plant communities in the alpine basin of Zhari Namco were quantified from three perspectives: topography, hydrology, and fractional vegetation cover. Using Aster GDEM and Landsat imagery, five grassland types were mapped for 2001–2021. Based on the spatial variables of area, shape, and distance, 13 landscape indices were selected to observe spatiotemporal changes. The results revealed several key findings: (1) The patch structure of the zonal vegetation Stipa purpurea steppe has undergone a pattern of dispersion‐aggregation‐dispersion in the past 20 years, yet the core habitat area remains unchanged by more than 52%, indicating fundamental stability in the southern Qiangtang alpine grassland; (2) Using the minimally grazed Kobresia pygmaea meadow as a reference, other communities exhibit stability similar to or approaching it, but with significant differences in aggregation level. The gradual expansion of grazing and economic activities has been a driving factor; and (3) Water conservation projects have diversified the use of water resources in river and lakeside habitats. Stipa purpurea + Carex moorcroftii steppe and Carex swamp meadow exhibit optimal carrying capacity, making them the only areas with relatively high sustainability. The study underscores that the current ecological benefits are a result of effective management. However, without proper management, the region could trend towards landscape fragmentation, becoming the most vulnerable zone in the watershed. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen retrospective analysis of grazing intensity and trend analysis of habitat changes to provide a scientific basis for local economic development and grazing management.
Semantic community query in a large‐scale attributed graph based on an attribute cohesiveness optimization strategy
Authors: Ge Jinhuan , Sun Heli , Lin Yezhi , He Liang
Published: August 2024

The task of a semantic community query is to obtain a subgraph based on a given query vertex (or vertex set) and other query parameters in an attributed graph such that belongs to , contains and satisfies a predefined community cohesiveness model. In most cases, existing community query models based on the network structure for traditional attributed networks usually lack community semantics. However, the features of vertex attributes, especially the attributes of the query vertices, which are closely related to the community semantics, are rarely considered in an attributed graph. Existing community query algorithms based on both structure cohesiveness and attribute cohesiveness usually do not take the attributes of the query vertex as an important factor of the community cohesiveness model, which leads to weak semantics of the communities. This paper proposes a semantic community query method named in a large‐scale attributed graph. First, the k‐core structure model is adopted as the structure cohesiveness of our community query model to obtain a subgraph of the original graph. Second, we define attribute cohesiveness based on the average distance between the query vertices and other vertices in terms of attributes in the community to prune the subgraph and obtain the semantic community. In order to improve the community query efficiency in large‐scale attributed graphs, applies two heuristic pruning strategies. The experimental results show that our method outperforms the existing community query methods in multiple evaluation metrics and is ideal for querying semantic communities in large‐scale attributed graphs.
Frailty predicts adverse outcomes in older patients with pulmonary embolism
Authors: Sinclair De Frías Jorge , Olivero Lorenzo , Gabela Abigail , Jaen Diana , Menser Terri , Moreno Franco Pablo
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the impact of frailty on the outcomes of older patients with pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods

Using the National Inpatient Sample database, we identified 288 070 patients aged 65 or older who were admitted with a primary diagnosis of PE from 2017 to 2019. Frailty was assessed using the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS), and patients were categorized into low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐frailty‐risk groups. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios for all outcomes.

Results

These patients were categorized into low‐risk (57.6%, 161 420), medium‐risk (39.9%, 111 805), and high‐risk (2.5%, 7075) groups. High‐risk patients, predominantly females with multiple comorbidities, exhibited significantly higher mortality rates and adverse outcomes. The HFRS showed a good discriminating ability in predicting mortality (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.7796). Frailty was associated with increased use of advanced therapeutic interventions and critical care resources such as thrombolysis, catheter‐directed therapies, inferior vena cava filter placement, mechanical ventilation, vasopressor use, and intensive care unit admission.

Conclusion

Frailty markedly affects outcomes in older PE patients. The HFRS offers a valuable prognostic tool in this population, suggesting that integrating frailty assessments into clinical practice could enhance care strategies and improve patient outcomes. Our findings underscore the need for further research to refine frailty‐based care paradigms. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 924–929.
Early COVID‐19 XBB.1.5 Vaccine Effectiveness Against Hospitalisation Among Adults Targeted for Vaccination, VEBIS Hospital Network, Europe, October 2023–January 2024
Authors: Antunes Liliana , Mazagatos Clara , Martínez‐Baz Iván , Naesens Reinout , Borg Maria‐Louise , Petrović Goranka , Fatukasi Terra , Jancoriene Ligita , Machado Ausenda , Oroszi Beatrix , Husa Petr , Lazar Mihaela , Dürrwald Ralf , Howard Jennifer , Melo Aryse , Pérez‐Gimeno Gloria , Castilla Jesús , Bernaert Eva , Džiugytė Aušra , Makarić Zvjezdana Lovrić , Fitzgerald Margaret , Mickienė Auksė , Gomez Verónica , Túri Gergő , Součková Lenka , Marin Alexandru , Tolksdorf Kristin , Nicolay Nathalie , Rose Angela M. C. ,   the European Hospital Vaccine Effectiveness Group
Published: August 2024

We conducted a multicentre test‐negative case–control study covering the period from October 2023 to January 2024 among adult patients aged ≥ 18 years hospitalised with severe acute respiratory infection in Europe. We provide early estimates of the effectiveness of the newly adapted XBB.1.5 COVID‐19 vaccines against PCR‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 hospitalisation. Vaccine effectiveness was 49% overall, ranging between 69% at 14–29 days and 40% at 60–105 days post vaccination. The adapted XBB.1.5 COVID‐19 vaccines conferred protection against COVID‐19 hospitalisation in the first 3.5 months post vaccination, with VE > 70% in older adults (≥ 65 years) up to 1 month post vaccination.
The Epidemiology of Pathogens in Community‐Acquired Pneumonia Among Children in Southwest China Before, During and After COVID‐19 Non‐pharmaceutical Interventions: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Yang Ruling , Xu Hongmei , Zhang Zhenzhen , Liu Quanbo , Zhao Ruiqiu , Zheng Gaihuan , Wu Xiaoying
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the pathogen epidemiology of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) among children in Southwest China before, during and after the COVID‐19 non‐pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs).

Methods

Pathogen data of hospitalised children with CAP, including multiple direct immunofluorescence test for seven viruses, bacterial culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Mycoplasma pneumoniae, were analysed across three phases: Phase I (pre‐NPIs: 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019), Phase II (NPI period: 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020) and Phase III (post‐NPIs: 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023).

Results

A total of 7533 cases were enrolled, including 2444, 1642 and 3447 individuals in Phases I, II and III, respectively. M. pneumoniae predominated in Phases I and III (23.4% and 35.5%, respectively). In Phase II, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) emerged as the primary pathogen (20.3%), whereas detection rates of influenza A virus (Flu A) and M. pneumoniae were at a low level (1.8% and 9.6%, respectively). In Phase III, both Flu A (15.8%) and M. pneumoniae epidemic rebounded, whereas RSV detection rate returned to Phase I level, and detection rates of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae decreased significantly compared to those in Phase I. Detection rates of adenovirus and parainfluenza virus type 3 decreased phase by phase. Age‐stratified analysis and monthly variations supported the above findings. Seasonal patterns of multiple pathogens were disrupted during Phases II and III.

Conclusions

COVID‐19 NPIs exhibited a distinct impact on CAP pathogen epidemic among children, with post‐NPIs increases observed in M. pneumoniae and Flu A prevalence. Continuous pathogen monitoring is crucial for effective prevention and control of paediatric CAP.
Development of a novel functional food based on ultrafine grinding and medicinal food raw materials formula
Authors: Chen Xiaodi , Chen Qiming , Li Jianing , Wang Yikai , Liu Zhanmin
Published: August 2024

Medicinal food raw materials refer to those raw materials with food and possess medicinal value. They were particularly suitable for developing novel functional food. In this study, a novel functional food based on ultrafine grinding treatment of Ganoderma, yam, wolfberry, Rhizoma polygonati, raspberry, and euryale ferox (GYWRRE) with a specifically designed formula was developed and characterized. The results were shown that the ultrafine GYWRRE powder presented a relatively regular structure and smooth surface. It had notable decreases in fluidity and oil‐holding capacity but increases in characteristic nutrient content and antioxidant capacity. The ultrafine GYWRRE powder also could prevent oxidative stress in C2C12 cells by reducing the contents of reactive oxygen species and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and increasing expressions of heme oxygenase‐1 and NQO1. The results of this study were demonstrated that medicinal food raw materials and ultrafine grinding had great applications potentials in developing functional food.

Practical applications

Medicinal food refers to those natural ingredients that serve both as food and possess medicinal value. Ultrafine grinding technology is a meticulously engineered method capable of grinding raw materials to the micron level, thereby increasing their surface area, improving their bioavailability, and potentially enhancing their medicinal properties and bioavailability. This study developed an ultrafine grinding treatment of Ganoderma, yam, wolfberry, Rhizoma polygonati, raspberry and euryale ferox (GYWRRE) with a specifically designed formula. The characteristics of the ultrafine GYWRRE powder contained particle size, morphology, colorimetry, liquidity, hydration, adsorption, and characteristic nutrients were characterized. The antioxidant capacity in vitro and in cells as well as the possible mechanism were also explored. The results of this study will be helpful for development of novel functional foods.
Estrogenic regulation of hippocampal inhibitory system across lifespan
Authors: Méndez Pablo , de la Vega‐Ruiz Rut , Montes‐Mellado Alberto
Published: August 2024

Estrogens produced in peripheral tissues and locally in the brain are potent neuromodulators. The function of the hippocampus, a brain region essential for episodic memory and spatial navigation, relies on the activity of ensembles of excitatory neurons whose activity is temporally and spatially coordinated by a wide diversity of inhibitory neurons (INs) types. Over the last years, we have accumulated evidence that indicates that estrogens regulate the function of hippocampal INs through different mechanisms, including transcriptional regulation and rapid nongenomic signaling. Here, we argue that the well‐documented influence of estrogens on episodic memory may be related to the actions of local and peripheral estrogens on the heterogenous populations of hippocampal INs. We discuss how physiological changes in peripheral sex hormone levels throughout lifespan may interact with local brain sources to regulate IN function at different stages of life, from early hippocampal development to the aging brain. We conclude that considering INs as mediators of sex hormone actions in the hippocampus across the healthy life span will benefit our understanding of sex‐biased neurodevelopmental disorders and physiological aging.
Melatonin Priming Promotes Crop Seed Germination and Seedling Establishment Under Flooding Stress by Mediating ABA, GA, and ROS Cascades
Authors: Luo Xiaofeng , Xu Xiaojing , Xu Jiahui , Zhao Xiaoting , Zhang Ranran , Shi Yiping , Xia Mingyu , Xian Baoshan , Zhou Wenguan , Zheng Chuan , Wei Shaowei , Wang Lei , Du Junbo , Liu Weiguo , Shu Kai
Published: August 2024

Both seed germination and subsequent seedling establishment are key checkpoints during the life cycle of seed plants, yet flooding stress markedly inhibits both processes, leading to economic losses from agricultural production. Here, we report that melatonin (MT) seed priming treatment enhances the performance of seeds from several crops, including soybean, wheat, maize, and alfalfa, under flooding stress. Transcriptome analysis revealed that MT priming promotes seed germination and seedling establishment associated with changes in abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) biosynthesis and signaling pathways. Real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR (qRT‐PCR) analysis confirmed that MT priming increases the expression levels of GA biosynthesis genes, ABA catabolism genes, and ROS biosynthesis genes while decreasing the expression of positive ABA regulatory genes. Further, measurements of ABA and GA concentrations are consistent with these trends. Following MT priming, quantification of ROS metabolism‐related enzyme activities and the concentrations of H2O2 and superoxide anions (O2−) after MT priming were consistent with the results of transcriptome analysis and qRT‐PCR. Finally, exogenous application of GA, fluridone (an ABA biosynthesis inhibitor), or H2O2 partially rescued the poor germination of non‐primed seeds under flooding stress. Collectively, this study uncovers the application and molecular mechanisms underlying MT priming in modulating crop seed vigor under flooding stress.
Making nonpunitive accountability matter: Exploring behavioral effects of nonpunitive accountability in a conjoint experiment
Authors: Schillemans Thomas , Aleksovska Marija
Published: August 2024

Punitive measures (sanctions) are central to accountability. Their use is however costly as they harm relationships. Prior research shows that punitive measures often remain unused. Public sector actors further operate in informal accountability settings where punitive measures are absent. Additionally, doctrines such as New Public Governance prioritize informal networks above hierarchy and punitive measures. Against this background, we study when and why nonpunitive accountability can be effective. Three theoretical logics are developed for decision‐making behavior under the condition of accountability. We theorize account‐givers are driven by a combination of extrinsic, intrinsic, and relational motivation. A conjoint experiment is used to study decisions (N = 761) of administrative leaders in Denmark in varying nonpunitive accountability conditions. Our findings suggest that a combination of extrinsic motivation and relational motivation explains decisions of account‐givers in nonpunitive settings. The study expands our theoretical knowledge of the behavioral effects of accountability and offers insights for policy practitioners.
Acompañamiento pastoral y crisis matrimonial: una mirada interdisciplinar
Authors: Sierra González Ángela María , Serra Mendes Bizarro João Pedro , Díaz López Yefren
Published: August 2024

Este artículo, resultado de la investigación “Acompañamiento integral a las parejas en el proceso de nulidad matrimonial”, pretende abordar, desde una perspectiva pastoral, la importancia del acompañamiento en un momento coyuntural como es la culminación del compromiso matrimonial, a partir de las recomendaciones dadas por el papa Francisco desde la exhortación apostólica Amoris laetitia y el motu proprio Mitis et misericors Iesus.
Dichas recomendaciones exigen a los encargados de la pastoral matrimonial parroquial una aproximación interdisciplinaria en la búsqueda del bien posible al momento de acompañar integralmente. La reflexión también se extiende a la manera como se acompaña en momentos de crisis y se plantea la necesidad de un trabajo articulado entre los diferentes actores relacionados con la pastoral matrimonial y los profesionales de otras disciplinas, con el fin de favorecer el discernimiento y la mediación permanente en las parejas.
Es fundamental confrontar no solo el propio sufrimiento personal, sino también el de la pareja. Esto implica, inicialmente, partir del reconocimiento de ambas vulnerabilidades y la necesidad de un acompañamiento particular que, desde la vocación matrimonial, la experiencia de fe y la cotidianidad de la vida en pareja, proponga alternativas y compromisos prácticos que promuevan la superación de los conflictos antes de plantear la posibilidad de una separación inminente. En los casos más críticos, se considera el proceso canónico de nulidad matrimonial.
Elasto-plastic friction modeling toward reconstructing measured bowed-string transients
Authors: Matusiak Ewa , Chatziioannou Vasileios
Published: August 2024

Physical modeling may be used to simulate the motion of a vibrating string under frictional excitation by a bow. This study compares the measured transient behavior of a bowed string with predictions from a physics-based simulation that assumes a finite-width bow, incorporates bow-hair compliance, considers the string's torsional motion, and utilizes an elasto-plastic friction model. The model is first evaluated by comparing simulated Guettler playability diagrams to a measured diagram obtained from a robot arm bowing a monochord. The playability regions are qualitatively similar, but some significant differences in the underlying waveforms are not captured. In order to improve the reconstructions of individual waveforms, inverse modeling is employed to derive parameter values for the elasto-plastic friction model, demonstrating the ability to generate accurate reconstructions of measured signal transients. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for variable friction coefficients that change with bow force and bow acceleration. This observation is consistent with prior research indicating that static and dynamic friction coefficients vary within a Guettler diagram.
Phantom energy in the nonlinear response of a quantum many-body scar state
Authors: Yang Kangning , Zhang Yicheng , Li Kuan-Yu , Lin Kuan-Yu , Gopalakrishnan Sarang , Rigol Marcos , Lev Benjamin L.
Published: August 2024

Quantum many-body scars are notable as nonthermal, low-entanglement states that exist at high energies. In this study, we used attractively interacting dysprosium gases to create scar states that are stable enough to be driven into a strongly nonlinear regime while retaining their character. We measured how the kinetic and total energies evolve after quenching the confining potential. Although the bare interactions are attractive, the atoms behave as if they repel each other: Their kinetic energy paradoxically decreases as the gas is compressed. The missing “phantom” energy is quantified by benchmarking our experimental results against generalized hydrodynamics calculations. We present evidence that the missing kinetic energy is carried by undetected, very high momentum atoms.
Decoupling the air sensitivity of Na-layered oxides
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Zaifa , Du Congcong , Wang Bowen , Li Xinyan , Wu Siyuan , Li Xiaowei , Zhang Xiao , Wang Xubin , Niu Yaoshen , Ding Feixiang , Rong Xiaohui , Lu Yaxiang , Zhang Nian , Xu Juping , Xiao Ruijuan , Zhang Qinghua , Wang Xuefeng , Yin Wen , Zhao Junmei , Chen Liquan , Huang Jianyu , Hu Yong-Sheng
Published: August 2024

Air sensitivity remains a substantial barrier to the commercialization of sodium (Na)–layered oxides (NLOs). This problem has puzzled the community for decades because of the complexity of interactions between air components and their impact on both bulk and surfaces of NLOs. We show here that water vapor plays a pivotal role in initiating destructive acid and oxidative degradations of NLOs only when coupled with carbon dioxide or oxygen, respectively. Quantification analysis revealed that reducing the defined cation competition coefficient (η), which integrates the effects of ionic potential and sodium content, and increasing the particle size can enhance the resistance to acid attack, whereas using high-potential redox couples can eliminate oxidative degradation. These findings elucidate the underlying air deterioration mechanisms and rationalize the design of air-stable NLOs.
Equity weighting increases the social cost of carbon
Authors: Prest Brian C. , Rennels Lisa , Errickson Frank , Anthoff David
Published: August 2024

New government guidelines could transform benefit-cost analysis of US climate policy
Ambient printing of native oxides for ultrathin transparent flexible circuit boards
Authors: Kong Minsik , Vong Man Hou , Kwak Mingyu , Lim Ighyun , Lee Younghyun , Lee Seong-hun , You Insang , Awartani Omar , Kwon Jimin , Shin Tae Joo , Jeong Unyong , Dickey Michael D.
Published: August 2024

Metal oxide films are essential in most electronic devices, yet they are typically deposited at elevated temperatures by using slow, vacuum-based processes. We printed native oxide films over large areas at ambient conditions by moving a molten metal meniscus across a target substrate. The oxide gently separates from the metal through fluid instabilities that occur in the meniscus, leading to uniform films free of liquid residue. The printed oxide has a metallic interlayer that renders the films highly conductive. The metallic character of the printed films promotes wetting of trace amounts of evaporated gold that would otherwise form disconnected islands on conventional oxide surfaces. The resulting ultrathin (<10 nanometers) conductors can be patterned into flexible circuits that are transparent, mechanically robust, and electrically stable, even at elevated temperatures.
To what do we return?
Nature’s Ghosts: The World We Lost and How to Bring It Back
Sophie Yeo
HarperNorth, 2024. 320 pp.
Authors: Boon Sarah
Published: August 2024

A journalist probes philosophies of wildlife restoration
Visualizing synaptic pruning in the mammalian brain
Authors: Somaiya Rachana Deven , Feller Marla B.
Published: August 2024

Patterns of spontaneous neuronal activity instruct the refinement of developing brain circuits
Water reviving Colorado delta
Authors: González Roberto
Published: August 2024

Birds, trees rebound along once parched river, studies find
Frustration boils over at storied physics lab
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: August 2024

Planned staff furlough at Fermilab highlights continuing management troubles
Controversial ocean alkalinity study seeks EPA permit
Authors: Cornwall Warren
Published: August 2024

Project would test fighting global warming by artificially boosting seawater’s absorption of carbon dioxide
Dino-killing asteroid came from beyond Jupiter
Authors: Mann Adam
Published: August 2024

Trace metals found at extinction layer implicate rare, carbon-rich type of meteorite