bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The quality/cosmology tension for a post-inflation QCD axion
Authors: Lu Qianshu , Reece Matthew , Sun Zhiquan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
It is difficult to construct a post-inflation QCD axion model that solves the axion quality problem (and hence the Strong CP problem) without introducing a cosmological disaster. In a post-inflation axion model, the axion field value is randomized during the Peccei-Quinn phase transition, and axion domain walls form at the QCD phase transition. We emphasize that the gauge equivalence of all minima of the axion potential (i.e., domain wall number equals one) is insufficient to solve the cosmological domain wall problem. The axion string on which a domain wall ends must exist as an individual object (as opposed to a multi-string state), and it must be produced in the early universe. These conditions are often not satisfied in concrete models. Post-inflation axion models also face a potential problem from fractionally charged relics; solving this problem often leads to low-energy Landau poles for Standard Model gauge couplings, reintroducing the quality problem. We study several examples, finding that models that solve the quality problem face cosmological problems, and vice versa. This is not a no-go theorem; nonetheless, we argue that it is much more difficult than generally appreciated to find a viable post-inflation QCD axion model. Successful examples may have a nonstandard cosmological history (e.g., multiple types of cosmic axion strings of different tensions), undermining the widespread expectation that the post-inflation QCD axion scenario predicts a unique mass for axion dark matter.
Probing flavor violation and baryogenesis via primordial gravitational waves
Authors: Borboruah Zafri A. , Ghoshal Anish , Ipek Seyda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
We show that observations of primordial gravitational waves of inflationary origin can shed light into the scale of flavor violation in a flavon model which also explains the mass hierarchy of fermions. The energy density stored in oscillations of the flavon field around the minimum of its potential redshifts as matter and is expected to dominate over radiation in the early universe. At the same time, the evolution of primordial gravitational waves acts as bookkeeping to understand the expansion history of the universe. Importantly, the gravitational wave spectrum is different if there is an early flavon dominated era compared to radiation domination expected from a standard cosmological model and this spectrum gets damped by the entropy released in flavon decays, determined by the mass of the flavon field mS and new scale of flavor violation ΛFV. We derive analytical expressions of the frequency above which the spectrum is damped, as-well-as the amount of damping, in terms of mS and ΛFV. We show that the damping of the gravitational wave spectrum would be detectable at BBO, DECIGO, U-DECIGO, μ−ARES, LISA, CE and ET detectors for ΛFV = 105−10 GeV and mS = $$ \mathcal{O}\left(\textrm{TeV}\right) $$
O

TeV

. Furthermore, the flavon decays can source the baryon asymmetry of the universe. We identify the mS – ΛFV parameter space where the observed baryon asymmetry η ~ 10−10 is produced and can be tested by gravitational wave detectors like LISA and ET. We also discuss our results in the context of the recently measured stochastic gravitational background signals by NANOGrav.
Laser-based directed energy deposition and characterisation of cBN-reinforced NiAl-based coatings
Authors: Müller Michael , Gerdt Leonid , Schrüfer Susanne , Riede Mirko , López Elena , Brueckner Frank , Leyens Christoph 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Within this study, the alloy NiAl–2.5Ta–7.5Cr is investigated as a new matrix material for cBN-reinforced abrasive turbine blade tip coatings as currently used NiCoCrAlY matrix alloys suffer from insufficient strength at the high operating temperatures. Laser-based directed energy deposition with blown powder was applied to produce cBN reinforced NiAl-based coatings on monocrystalline CMSX-4 substrates. For this, powdery titanium-coated cBN and NiAl–2.5Ta–7.5Cr material were co-injected into the process zone to achieve an in situ formation of a NiAl–2.5Ta–7.5Cr/cBN composite. In order to overcome challenges such as cracking susceptibility, inductive preheating of the substrate up to 800 °C was used. Optical and scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, as well as electron backscatter diffraction were applied to analyse the fabricated samples’ microstructure. Additionally, the mechanical properties were evaluated by means of microhardness mappings. This work demonstrates the feasibility of in situ forming a metal matrix composite with a homogeneous distribution of cBN particles. The results show the beneficial effect of high-temperature preheating on the crack formation. However, the study also reveals challenges such as cracking induced by the injected cBN particles as well as severe intermixing of substrate and coating, which yields spatially resolved deviations in the chemical composition and resulting variations in microstructure and hardness.

Graphical abstract
Optimal Design of Plane Elastic Membranes Using the Convexified Föppl’s Model
Authors: Bołbotowski Karol 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis work puts forth a new optimal design formulation for planar elastic membranes. The goal is to minimize the membrane’s compliance through choosing the material distribution described by a positive Radon measure. The deformation of the membrane itself is governed by the convexified Föppl’s model. The uniqueness of this model lies in the convexity of its variational formulation despite the inherent nonlinearity of the strain–displacement relation. It makes it possible to rewrite the optimization problem as a pair of mutually dual convex variational problems. The primal variables are displacement functions, whilst in the dual one seeks stresses being Radon measures. The pair of problems is analysed: existence and regularity results are provided, together with the system of optimality criteria. To demonstrate the computational potential of the pair, a finite element scheme is developed around it. Upon reformulation to a conic-quadratic & semi-definite programming problem, the method is employed to produce numerical simulations for several load case scenarios.
Exceedance statistics based on bottom-$$k$$-lists
Authors: Kozan Agah , Uyar Burak , Tanil Halil 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSimilar to usual lower records, Bottom-$$k$$
k
-lists (Kozan and Tanil, İstatistik J Turk Stat Assoc 13:73–79, 2013) have a wide range of practical applications in meteorology, hydrology, sports, etc. Also, exceedance statistics can be viewed as a close relative to tolerance limits—an important field of statistical science. In this study, an idea of combining these two important subjects together is studied and an exceedance statistic is defined based on bottom-$$k$$
k
-lists in an independent and identically distributed (iid) continuous random sequence. Probability mass function (pmf) of a selected exceedance statistic is obtained. Also, an illustrative application of the exceedance statistic is given.
United States clinical practice experience with eculizumab in myasthenia gravis: symptoms, function, and immunosuppressant therapy use
Authors: Habib Ali A. , Klink Andrew J. , Muppidi Srikanth , Parthan Anju , Sader S. Chloe , Balanean Alexandrina , Gajra Ajeet , Nowak Richard J. , Howard James F. ,   the ELEVATE Study Group
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background/objectives
The phase 3 REGAIN study and its open-label extension demonstrated the efficacy of the complement C5 inhibitor eculizumab in patients with treatment-refractory, acetylcholine receptor antibody–positive generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG). The aim of the ELEVATE study was to assess the effectiveness of eculizumab in clinical practice in adults with MG in the United States.

Methods
A retrospective chart review was conducted in adults with MG who initiated eculizumab treatment between October 23, 2017 and December 31, 2019. Outcomes assessed before and during eculizumab treatment using a pre- versus post-treatment study design included Myasthenia Gravis–Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) total scores; minimal symptom expression (MSE); physician impression of clinical change; minimal manifestation status (MMS); and concomitant medication use.

Results
In total, 119 patients were included in the study. A significant reduction was observed in mean MG-ADL total score, from 8.0 before eculizumab initiation to 5.4 at 3 months and to 4.7 at 24 months after eculizumab initiation (both p < 0.001). At 24 months after eculizumab initiation, MSE was achieved by 19% of patients. MMS or better was achieved by 30% of patients at 24 months. Additionally, 64% of patients receiving prednisone at eculizumab initiation had their prednisone dosage reduced during eculizumab treatment and 13% discontinued prednisone; 32% were able to discontinue nonsteroidal immunosuppressant therapy.

Discussion
Eculizumab treatment was associated with sustained improvements in MG-ADL total scores through 24 months in adults with MG. Prednisone dosage was reduced in approximately two-thirds of patients, suggesting a steroid-sparing effect for eculizumab.
Accurate height and length estimation in hospitalized children not fulfilling WHO criteria for standard measurement: a multicenter prospective study
Authors: Ford Chessel Carole , Berthiller Julien , Haran Isabelle , Tume Lyvonne N. , Bourgeaud Christelle , Tsapis Michael , Gaillard-Le Roux Benedicte , Gauvard Evelyne , Loire Claire , Guillot Camille , Mouneydier Karine , Nolent Paul , Blache Thibault , Cour Andlauer Fleur , Rooze Shancy , Jotterand Chaparro Corinne , Morice Claire , Subtil Fabien , Huot Margaux , Valla Frédéric V 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn hospitalized children, height should be measured. When world health organization (WHO) height measurement gold standards is impossible, the ideal height estimation technique is still unclear. We conducted an international prospective study in eight different pediatric intensive care units to assess the accuracy, precision, practicability, safety, and inter-rater reliability of 12 different height estimation techniques, based on body segment measurement extrapolation, or other calculations using previous or projected heights. All extrapolation techniques were performed on each child, and later compared to their WHO gold standard heights. A total of 476 patients were enrolled. In the < 2-year subgroup, board length use and growth chart extrapolation performed best. In the ≥ 2-year subgroup, growth chart extrapolation and parents’ report were the most accurate, followed by height measurement alongside the body with a tape measure. In both groups, body segment extrapolations were poorly predictive and showed mean bias and limits of agreement that varied a lot with age. Most body segment-based techniques presented with frequent measurement difficulties, but children’s safety was rarely compromised. The inter-rater reliability of body segment measurement was low in the < 2-year subgroup.Conclusions: To accurately estimate height in hospitalized children, health care professionals should integrate the accuracy, precision, practicability, and reliability of each measurement technique to select the most appropriate one. Body segment-based techniques were the least accurate and should probably not be used. Simple techniques like growth chart extrapolation, or measurement alongside the body (and length board measurement in the youngest) should be implemented in daily practice.Trial Registration: The study protocol was registered (12th April 2019) on the clinical-trial.gov website (NCT03913247).

What is Known:• Height should be measured in hospitalized children to assess nutritional status and calculate various clinical parameters. • Many hospitalized children cannot be measured using WHO conventional height measurement methods. The ideal height estimation method has not been identified yet.

What is New:• Most estimation methods based on body segment measurement extrapolation fail to accurately predict height.• Board length use and growth chart extrapolation performed best in young children (≥2 years). Growth chart extrapolation and parents’ report were the most accurate, followed by height measurement alongside the body with a tape measure in older children.
Competition between sympatric hare species in the Alps is boostered by climate change and hybridisation
Authors: Schai-Braun Stéphanie C. , Cybulska Nicolas , Filli Flurin , Jenny Hannes , Queirós Joao , Alves Paulo C. , Hackländer Klaus 
Published: July 2024

AbstractClimatic variation along the elevation gradient promotes the natural parapatric occurrence of the European hare (Lepus europaeus) and Alpine mountain hare (Lepus timidus varronis) in the Alps. Recent data indicate a displacement of mountain hares caused by competition with the European hare. Competitive exclusion might take place at a fine spatial scale and hybrids may sharpen competition. Genetic non-invasive sampling (gNIS) demonstrates to be effective to retrieve information from wild animals. However, based on the accuracy of the differing genetic analysis methods, the selection of the method might decisively influence results. To examine habitat preferences of Alpine mountain hares, European hares and their hybrids with particular interest in the influence of the accuracy of the genetic analysis method on the results, we performed gNIS in Grisons (Switzerland) for four years and compared habitat associations of the genotyped samples. We recorded 137 individuals (i.e., 35 hybrids, 49 European hares, 53 Alpine mountain hares). Combined nuclear and mitochondrial DNA analysis including individual identification revealed to be the most accurate indirect method for the study of habitat preferences of hares. Alpine mountain hares had a narrow habitat breadth and used little habitat diversity. Hybrids showed great similarities in their habitat preferences to European hares. Hybrids might increase the competition in favour of European hares and the displacement of Alpine mountain hares, since they show similar patterns of habitat use to European hares. Ongoing climate change potentiate the niche overlap between species, increasing the risk of Alpine hare decline due to hybridisation and displacement.
Using qualitative information elicited from a panel to obtain robust conclusions: a protocol and an application to improve integrated pest management systems
Authors: Dias Luis C. , Marques Pedro , Garcia Rita , de Santo Fernanda , Tentúgal Rita , Natal-da-Luz Tiago , Sousa Álvaro , Sousa José Paulo , Freire Fausto 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMulticriteria aggregation methods typically require inputs from decision makers concerning the relative importance of the criteria. This work presents an approach to use qualitative information elicited from a panel, which can be applied to compensatory and non-compensatory multicriteria aggregation methods. In particular, it considers the additive multiattribute value function and ELECTRE, two classical methods with well-known differences in the meaning of the criteria weights. Moreover, the proposed protocol makes a distinction between the importance of improving the current situation and the importance of not worsening the current situation. The inputs from the panel are aggregated to define constraints on the importance-related parameters, which can then be used for robustness and stochastic analyses. As a real-world application, a comparison of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is performed, considering the case of carrots cultivation in a French region. The comparisons are based on a sustainability assessment of the current practices and alternative IPM systems, using data from field trials, laboratory experiments and preferences from stakeholders. Results are robust to weighting choices, thus identifying which changes are recommended.
Lubrication flow in grinding
Authors: Crowson Zak , Billingham John , Houston Paul 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn the machining process known as grinding, fluid is applied to regulate the temperature of the workpiece and reduce the risk of expensive thermal damage. The factors that influence the transport of this grinding fluid are not well understood; however, it is important to gain understanding in order to try to avoid the unnecessary cost incurred from its inefficient application. In this work, we use the method of matched asymptotic expansions to derive the multiscale system of equations that governs the flow. Under the lubrication approximation, we show that it is possible to calculate the flow rate through the grinding zone without having to solve for the flow far from the grinding zone. Additional empirically determined boundary conditions do not need to be imposed. With this lubrication model, we quantify the effect of experimental parameters on the flow field in the grinding zone and study how the flow regime responds to changes in these parameters.
Association between serum hormone levels in early pregnancy and risk of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy in women undergoing assisted reproduction
Authors: Martel Rachel A. , Lee Victoria , Armstrong Abigail , Demirjian Maral , Kwan Lorna , Al-Safi Zain A. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
We examined the association between progesterone (P4), estradiol (E2), and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in early pregnancy and the development of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy among women undergoing assisted reproduction.

Methods
Retrospective study including patients who underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET), ovarian stimulation (OS), or unassisted conception (UC) and had a live singleton birth. The primary outcome was the development of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, HELLP, or eclampsia). Secondary outcomes were the development of fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), gestational diabetes mellitus, birth weight, and pre-term birth. Hormone levels and the development of the outcomes were correlated.

Results
A total of 681 patients were included; 189 had FET, 193 had OS, and 299 had UC. Patients undergoing FET or OS were not more likely to develop hypertensive diseases of pregnancy compared with UC patients. While median levels of E2 and P4 were significantly different between P-FET and NC-FET patients (E2: 252 vs 317 pg/mL, P4: 64 vs 29 ng/mL, respectively; both p < 0.01), rates of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy did not significantly differ between those two groups. In the multivariate analyses, P4, E2, and hCG were not associated with the development of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy, but progesterone levels were significantly higher among those with IUGR. This remained consistent when the analysis was limited to FET patients.

Conclusion
P4, E2, and hCG levels did not correlate with the development of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy but elevated progesterone levels did correlate with the development of IUGR.
From pen and paper to digital precision: a comprehensive review of on-farm recordkeeping
Authors: Basir Md. Samiul , Buckmaster Dennis , Raturi Ankita , Zhang Yaguang 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn the present era of agricultural digitalization, documenting on-farm operations is critical. These records contextualize other layers of data and underpin economic analysis and informed decision-making. On-farm recordkeeping is rooted in an ancient tradition and has evolved from pen and paper to digital means integrating diverse tools and methods. These tools vary widely in mode of data recording and this presents challenges in achieving complete, accurate and interoperable data. Assessing this diversity of existing recordkeeping systems is a key step toward the improvement in recordkeeping systems that enhance data quality and interoperability. Despite the importance, as of present, comprehensive studies addressing this challenge are lacking. A systematic review of existing on-farm recordkeeping systems was carried out to address their advantages and weaknesses and to analyze their features and traits, focusing on interoperability and adherence to efficient and comprehensive on-farm recordkeeping. Paper-based recordkeeping, a longstanding and reliable method, is gradually being replaced by digital platforms. Many universities and agencies have released farm management spreadsheets and interactive database forms representing the initial step toward intuitive recordkeeping. Furthermore, farm management software, web apps, and user-friendly smartphone apps are increasingly crucial for handling agricultural big data. Notably, among the surveyed software packages and apps, most of them are not free and only a few support data interoperability. The survey also indicates a scope for further development in open-source tools with automation in recordkeeping. Adopting digital on-farm recordkeeping tools can positively impact both on and off the farm, fostering data interoperability, controlled yet flexible data access, completeness, and appropriate accuracy.
Seasonal fluctuations of CGM metrics in individuals with type 1 diabetes using an intermittently scanned CGM device or sensor augmented pump
Authors: Oi-Yo Yuka , Urai Shin , Yamamoto Akane , Takayoshi Tomofumi , Yamamoto Masaaki , Hirota Yushi , Ogawa Wataru 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To elucidate the fluctuations in glucose levels measured using CGM-metrics during the four distinct seasons of the year in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using an intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM) device or sensor augmented pump (SAP).

Research design and methods
This retrospective, single-center study enrolled 93 individuals with T1DM who were equipped with an isCGM device or SAP at Kobe University Hospital. The subjects had a median age of 47.0 years [interquartile range, 37.0–62.0 years], 25 individuals (26.9%) were male, median body mass index was 22.0 kg/m2 [20.8–23.8 kg/m2], and median hemoglobin A1c level was 7.4% [6.9–8.0%]. CGM data were reviewed from January to December 2019, and the mean sensor glucose (SG) value, time above range (TAR), time in range (TIR), time below range (TBR), and standard deviation (SD) of SG were calculated for each season (spring, March–May; summer, June–August; autumn, September–November; winter, December–February).

Results
Seasonal fluctuations were detected for mean SG, TAR, TIR, and SD, with TIR being lower and mean SG, TAR, and SD being higher in cold seasons (spring or winter) than in warm seasons (summer or autumn).

Conclusion
Seasonal fluctuations in CGM metrics should be taken into account in future studies performed to evaluate the favorable impact of CGM on glycemic management in individuals with T1DM.
Emergency General Surgery Process Improvement Review
Authors: Appelbaum Rachel D. , Smith Michael C. , Staudenmayer Kristan L. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
In this work, we aim to highlight original research publications within the past 5 years that address performance improvement (PI) for emergency general surgery (EGS).

Recent Findings
In 2022, the AAST and the American College of Surgeons launched the EGS verification program and the EGS standards manual—Optimal Resources for Emergency General Surgery. The key elements of EGS PI include: a data registry, personnel, clinical practice guidelines, PI events, and a peer review process.

Summary
While EGS represents a substantial burden of hospitalization and spending, public funding does not match other surgical subspecialties. For effective PI, EGS programs will need a combination of funding for support personnel and EMR-based registry solutions which accurately capture all patients cared for by EGS teams, operatively and non-operatively. This must be reproducible in all hospitals who care for patients with EGS-related diagnoses, not just tertiary care facilities.