bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex‐related patterns of functional brain networks in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Li Cuicui , Wang Jingxuan , Zhou Yunna , Li Tong , Wu Baolin , Yuan Xianshun , Li Lin , Qin Rui , Liu Hongzhu , Chen Linglong , Wang Ximing
Published: July 2024

Although numerous studies have emphasized the male predominance in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), how sex differences are related to the topological organization of functional networks remains unclear. This study utilized imaging data from 86 ASD (43 females, aged 7–18 years) and 86 typically developing controls (TCs) (43 females, aged 7–18 years) obtained from Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange databases, constructed individual whole‐brain functional networks, used a graph theory analysis to compute topological metrics, and assessed sex‐related differences in topological metrics using a 2 × 2 factorial design. At the global level, females with ASD exhibited significantly higher cluster coefficient and local efficiency than female TCs, while no significant difference was observed between males with ASD and male TCs. Meanwhile, the neurotypical sex differences in cluster coefficient and local efficiency observed in TCs were not present in ASD. At the nodal level, ASD exhibited abnormal nodal centrality in the left middle temporal gyrus.
Identification of infectious viruses for risk‐based virus testing of CHO unprocessed bulk using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Hsu Tiffany , Talley Mary Jo , Yang Ping , Geiselhoeringer Angela , Yang Cindy , Gorla Aditya , Rahman M. Julhasur , Silva Lindsey , Chen Dayue , Yang Bin
Published: July 2024

It is important to increase manufacturing speed to make medicines more widely available. One bottleneck for CHO‐based drug substance release is the in vitro viral (IVV) cell‐based assay on unprocessed bulk. To increase process speed, we evaluate the suitability of replacing the IVV cell‐based assay with next‐generation sequencing (NGS). First, we outline how NGS is currently used in the pharmaceutical industry, and how it may apply to CHO virus testing. Second, we examine CHO virus contamination history. Since prior virus contaminants can replicate in the production bioreactor, we perform a literature search and classify 159 viruses as high, medium, low, or unknown risk based on their ability to infect CHO cells. Overall, the risk of virus contamination during the CHO manufacturing process is low. Only six viruses were reported to have contaminated CHO bioprocesses over the past several decades, and were primarily caused by fetal bovine serum or cell culture components. These virus contamination events can be mitigated through limitation and control of raw materials, combined with virus testing and virus clearance technologies. The list of CHO infectious viruses provides a starting framework for virus safety risk assessment and NGS development. Furthermore, ICH Q5A (R2) includes NGS as a molecular method for adventitious agent testing, paving a path forward for modernizing CHO virus testing.
Efficient Synthesis of a C2‐Symmetric 2,2'‐Bipyridine‐α,α'‐1‐t‐butyl‐diol Ligand by Stereoselective Double Hydrogen Transfer to a 2,2'‐Bipyridine‐diketone
Authors: Bouzid Stéphany , Marcoux Antony , Ollevier Thierry
Published: July 2024

An efficient and practical method was developed for the synthesis of C2‐symmetric 2,2'‐bipyridine‐α,α’‐1‐t‐butyl‐diol ligands. The disclosed synthesis involves the Ullmann homocoupling of a keto bromo‐pyridine under NiCl2/Zn/PPh3 conditions, followed by the stereoselective double hydrogen transfer to the obtained 2,2'‐bipyridine‐diketone using RuII Noyori–Ikariya catalysts. This approach allowed the successful synthesis of 2,2'‐bipyridine‐α,α'‐1‐t‐butyl‐diol, i.e (S,S)‐Bolm's ligand, with a quantitative yield and an excellent stereoselectivity (ee > 99.5%, de > 99.5%), with an overall yield of 69% from easily accessible starting materials.
A new method for scaling inlet flow waveform in hemodynamic analysis of aortic dissection
Authors: Wang Kaihong , Armour Chlöe H. , Guo Baolei , Dong Zhihui , Xu Xiao Yun
Published: July 2024

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations have shown great potentials in cardiovascular disease diagnosis and postoperative assessment. Patient‐specific and well‐tuned boundary conditions are key to obtaining accurate and reliable hemodynamic results. However, CFD simulations are usually performed under non‐patient‐specific flow conditions due to the absence of in vivo flow and pressure measurements. This study proposes a new method to overcome this challenge by tuning inlet boundary conditions using data extracted from electrocardiogram (ECG). Five patient‐specific geometric models of type B aortic dissection were reconstructed from computed tomography (CT) images. Other available data included stoke volume (SV), ECG, and 4D‐flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ECG waveforms were processed to extract patient‐specific systole to diastole ratio (SDR). Inlet boundary conditions were defined based on a generic aortic flow waveform tuned using (1) SV only, and (2) with ECG and SV (ECG + SV). 4D‐flow MRI derived inlet boundary conditions were also used in patient‐specific simulations to provide the gold standard for comparison and validation. Simulations using inlet flow waveform tuned with ECG + SV not only successfully reproduced flow distributions in the descending aorta but also provided accurate prediction of time‐averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS) in the primary entry tear (PET) and abdominal regions, as well as maximum pressure difference, ∆Pmax, from the aortic root to the distal false lumen. Compared with simulations with inlet waveform tuned with SV alone, using ECG + SV in the tuning method significantly reduced the error in false lumen ejection fraction at the PET (from 149.1% to 6.2%), reduced errors in TAWSS at the PET (from 54.1% to 5.7%) and in the abdominal region (from 61.3% to 11.1%), and improved ∆Pmax prediction (from 283.1% to 18.8%) However, neither of these inlet waveforms could be used for accurate prediction of TAWSS in the ascending aorta. This study demonstrates the importance of SDR in tailoring inlet flow waveforms for patient‐specific hemodynamic simulations. A well‐tuned flow waveform is essential for ensuring that the simulation results are patient‐specific, thereby enhancing the confidence and fidelity of computational tools in future clinical applications.
Flame Propagation of Premixed Gas with Enhanced Heat Recirculation: Dynamic Characteristics of Lean and Rich Combustion
Authors: Dai Huaming , Zou Chongxue , Wang Xinyi , Guo Zhaoxing , Yang Yi , Lv Shuailin , Jiang Zhuang
Published: July 2024

Porous media combustion greatly improves the combustion of low calorific value gas (LCG), and appropriate heat control contributes to optimizing the flame evolution. To obtain the dynamic characteristics of lean‐rich combustion, an enhanced heat‐recirculating burner is built by embedding the cylindrical rod with high thermal conductivity. The temperature distribution and gas products are investigated under different rod parameters and operating conditions. The results indicate that the reduction of the equivalence ratio and inlet velocity are both beneficial for the upstream propagation of rich‐methane flame, which has an opposite trend to lean combustion. Regardless of the direction in which the rich‐methane flame propagates, the flame propagates the fastest as the diameter of the cylindrical rod is 8 mm. When the 8–120 cylindrical rod is embedded in the burner, the downstream propagation time is shortened by 73.40%. The appropriate embedment of the cylindrical rods in porous media not only accelerates the rich‐methane flame propagation but also promotes the conversion of methane to syngas. Moreover, the decrease in pellet diameter is also conducive to increasing syngas production. The above conclusions provide theoretical support for the efficient and clean utilization of LCG in the porous media.
Orchidaceae cubanac novae V Taxa nova et critica ex generibus Tetramicra, Encyclia, Stelis et Malaxis
Authors: Dietrich Helga
Published: July 2024

Innerhalb der laufenden taxonomisehen Untersuchungen an eubanischen Orchideen werden weitere Sippen beschrieben: eine neue Unterart, Malaxis dominagensis ssp. insularis, eine neue Untergattung, Tetrainicra subgenus Auricula und zwei neue Arten, Encyclia moebusii und Stelis cristalensis. Mit 10 Arealkarten von 25 seltenen cubanischen Orchideen.
El género Pisonia L. en Cuba
Authors: Ditmas Marta Aluida Díaz
Published: July 2024

So presenta una revisión taxonómica dol género Pisonia L. (Nyctaginaceao) en Cuba. Se ofrece una clave para la determinación do las especies.
El género Lunania Hooker en Cuba
Authors: Amaro Jorgen Gutiérrez
Published: July 2024

Se ofrece una caracterización morfológica de los taxa del género Lunania Hook, presentes en Cuba y se revisa el tratamiento nomenclatural de los mismos. Se aportan también datos fitogeográficos así como una clave para las especies cubanas.
Beiträge zum xerothermen Vegetationskomplex Böhmens 1. Die Xerothermvegetation im Nordböhmisehen Waldsteppenbezirk
Authors: Toman Miloslav
Published: July 2024

Diese Arbeit schlieβt an die Untersuchungen von Toman (1981, S. 303–332, 433–499 569–601) an. Sie gibt Informationen über einige typische Gesellschaften der Festuco‐Brometea sowie die ökologischen und zönologischen Gruppen der psamophilen, halophilen und Felsengesellschaften bzw. einige Gesellschaften des Waldsaums. Diese Gesellschaftsgruppe ist ein heterogener Bestandteil in der mitteleuropäischen Flora. In vorliegender Arbeit wird sie als xerothermer Vegetationskomplex bezeichnet.

In dieser Studie werden ferner einige Probleme aus dem böhmischen Xerothermgebiet, den Raums auβerhalb des böhmischen Xerothermgebiets sowie Probleme der phytogeographischen Struktur und Gliederung der vier westlichen böhmischen Xerothermbozirke bearbeitet. Weiterhin wird durch sie und einige weitere Fakten begründet, daβ es nicht möglich ist, die Zugehörigkeit einiger Taxa bei Studien im Gelände zuverlässig zu bestimmen. Für einige taxonomisch schwierige Arten werden Hinweise zu ihrer taxonomischen Absonderung gegeben.

Dieser erste Teil gibt Ergänzungen zur Problematik der Ordnung Festucelia valesiacea im Nordböhmischen Waldsteppenbezirk. Es werden auβerdem die Gesellschaften der Ordnung Brometalia besehrieben und das geschlossene Vorkommen der Art Ficaria calthcafolia in diesem Gebiet zönologisch begründet.
Bleeding management in type 3 von Willebrand disease with anti‐von Willebrand factor inhibitor: A literature review and case report
Authors: Briane Aurélie , Horvais Valérie , Sigaud Marianne , Trossaërt Marc , Drillaud Nicolas , Ternisien Catherine , Fouassier Marc , Babuty Antoine
Published: July 2024

Treatment of type 3 von Willebrand disease by infusion of von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII) concentrates may lead to the development of anti‐VWF antibodies, challenging haemostasis management. The systematic review of the literature presented here retrieved 15 such cases (surgery n = 11, bleeding n = 4). The heterogeneous patient management mostly involved continuous infusion of FVIII, or recombinant FVIIa together with various other strategies. Off‐label infusion of the bispecific monoclonal antibody emicizumab was prescribed in three cases and in a complex local case, ultimately well‐controlled with emicizumab. This illustrates the fact that emicizumab appears as a therapeutic option in this context of allo‐immunisation.
Anatomic double‐bundle transtibial anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction restores graft length changes but leads to larger graft bending angles
Authors: Zhang Ling , Qiu Jiayu , Chen Jiebo , Wang Cong , Zhao Jinzhong , Wang Shaobai , Tsai Tsung‐Yuan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the femoral tunnel position using a modified anatomic transtibial (TT) double‐bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (DBACLR) and to investigate the knee kinematics, graft length and graft bending angle following DBACLR.

Methods

Ten patients who underwent DBACLR using the modified TT technique were included in the study. All patients performed a single‐legged lunge under a dual fluoroscopic imaging system to assess the 6 degrees of freedom tibiofemoral kinematics. Femoral tunnel position was evaluated via postoperative three‐dimensional (3D) computed tomography. The area centroids of anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) bundles were determined on 3D knee models. The lengths of AM and PL bundles, as well as graft bending angle at the femoral tunnel aperture, were measured by created virtual fibres.

Results

The reconstructed knee rotated more externally compared with the contralateral knee between 0° and 60° (p ≤ 0.049). There is no significant difference in the length change of AM bundle (n.s.) and PL bundle (n.s.) between the two sides from 0° to 120° during the lunge motion. The maximum graft bending angle at the femoral tunnel aperture occurred at 0° of knee flexion, with the AM graft bending angle was 72.6° ± 9.0° and the PL graft bending angle was 90.3° ± 9.7°.

Conclusion

The modified TT technique used in this study could achieve anatomical ACL reconstruction, restoring graft length change patterns compared to contralateral knees. However, residual rotational instability of the reconstructed knee was observed after DBACLR, despite achieving anatomic tunnel placement. Therefore, double‐bundle reconstruction may not sufficiently address the persistent rotational instability of the knee. Additionally, larger graft bending angles at the femoral tunnel aperture were found with the modified TT technique. Therefore, further improvement to the TT technique should focus on reducing the graft's curvature while maintaining the anatomical properties of the knee joint. The findings of this study highlight the need for improved surgical techniques to address residual rotational instability and optimise graft curvature. These improvements are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and long‐term joint function following ACL reconstruction.

Levels of Evidence

Level II.
Evaluation of the Mechanical Strength and Cell Adhesion Capacity of POSS Doped PVA/CMC Hernia Patch
Authors: Akkurt Yıldırım Meryem , ÖZER Barkın , Türkoğlu Nelisa , Denktaş Cenk
Published: July 2024

Peritoneal adhesion typically occurs in applications such as abdominal, pelvic, and vascular surgery. It is necessary to develop a mechanical barrier to prevent adhesion. In this study, a novel biomaterial as a mechanical barrier is developed by combining polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), doped with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) to prevent peritoneal adhesion. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) methods reveal that POSS nanoparticles in the PVA matrix disrupted the intramolecular hydroxyl groups and structure of the crystal region. Electron microscopy (EM) images reveal that high concentrations of POSS (2 wt.%) cause irregular clustering in the composite matrix. As the concentration of POSS increases in the matrix, the degradation of the membranes increases, and protein adhesion decreases. In vitro cytotoxicity tests show a toxic effect on cells for PVA/CMC composite membranes, while on the other hand, the addition of POSS increases cell viability. According to the MMT test the POSS decreases cell adhesion of membranes. When comparing the POSS doped membrane to the undoped PVA/CMC membrane, an increase in the total antioxidant level and a decrease in the total oxidant level is observed.
Numerical simulation and experimental study on mesomechanics properties of particulate composites
Authors: Liu Biaoqiang , Qian Bo , Dai Peng , Liang Yuxin , Pan Xinxin
Published: July 2024

At present, it exists the problems of poor computational accuracy of the micromechanical model and insufficient adaptive matching of the RVE unit cell model boundary conditions, being caused by the random distribution of particle size and quantity in particle composite materials. As for the above problems, the paper proposes a micromechanical model that uses a random sequence adsorption algorithm to deeply match and enhance the random distribution of particles, and a subroutine joint simulation method to generate boundary conditions quickly and automatically. The RVE unit cell model of particulate composites are numerically simulated at the micromechanical level. It was found that the enhancement of the mechanical properties of the base material by enhancing particles is highly consistent with the actual improvement value. The simulation values and actual values of particle composite materials with different volume contents are also accurately consistent. In addition, with the increase of particle volume content, its reinforcement effect on the base material first increases and then decreases, and there exists an optimal mixing ratio and a minimum mixing ratio. The optimal mixing ratio for short cut fiber reinforced particles is 50%, with a minimum mixing ratio of 10%. The optimal mixing ratio for silicon carbide reinforced particles is 40%, with a minimum mixing ratio of 8%. Through experimental results, it has been verified that the micromechanical model can quickly and accurately predict the elastic constants and Poisson's ratio of composite materials under periodic displacement boundary conditions, with a prediction accuracy of within 10%.

Highlights

Effectively solve the problems such as the random distribution of the size and quantity of reinforced particles in the particle composite material and the difficulty in adding the boundary conditions of the micro‐RVE unit cell model in the macro composite material.

A random sequence adsorption algorithm is proposed to generate the RVE cell model with reinforced particles, and the periodic displacement boundary conditions are added to the RVE cell model through Python and Abaqus joint simulation.

The simulation results show that the stress of chopped fiber reinforced particles is about 1.96 times that of the matrix material, and the stress of SiC reinforced particles is about 2.1 times that of the matrix material, and the optimal mixing ratio of chopped fiber reinforced particles is 50% and that of silicon carbide reinforced particles is 40%.

The proposed micromechanical model can accurately predict the elastic constants of composites under periodic boundary conditions, and its prediction accuracy can be controlled within 10%.

In this paper, a more reasonable meso‐stress‐strain field of single cell element is given, which can provide reference for studying the meso‐failure mechanism and nonlinear mechanical behavior of particle composites.
The sustained and effective anticancer effect of plasma‐activated hydrogel on melanoma cells
Authors: Xu Shengduo , Wang Shiyao , Wu Tong , Zhang Jishen , Jing Xixi , Lin Jiao , Zhang Hao , Liu Dingxin , Jin Xianzhen , Wang Zifeng , Wang Xiaohua , Rong Mingzhe
Published: July 2024

Cold atmospheric plasma has selective anticancer effects, while limited penetration depth and lifetime of reactive species restrict its usage. Herein, we adopt saline and hydrogel as carriers of plasma‐induced reactive species, and link reactive species accumulation, attenuation, storage, and slow‐release to anticancer effects of plasma‐activated media. Results reveal that plasma‐activated hydrogel (PAH) has a sustained anticancer effect and prolongs the storage duration of reactive species, thus causing more intracellular oxidative species accumulation and inducing melanoma cell apoptosis with reactive species continuously released to cell medium. In contrast, plasma‐activated saline has an attenuated anticancer effect with decline in reactive species. Therefore, PAH serves as a useful reactive species carrier and has potential for further anticancer research.
Photoresponse Characteristics of a Graphene Quantum Dot/GaN Metal–Semiconductor–Metal Ultraviolet Photodetector
Authors: Pandit Bhishma , Cho Jaehee
Published: July 2024

In this study, the contact characteristics of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) formed on n‐type GaN semiconductors are investigated. Blue‐luminescent GQDs prepared using a hydrothermal method are sprayed onto a GaN wafer, and the electrical and optical properties of the fabricated contacts are investigated. The GQD/GaN contacts exhibit rectifying behavior with a typical Schottky barrier height of 0.64 eV. A metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) photodiode with interdigitated GQD contacts on n‐type GaN is fabricated and provides an extremely low dark current. The spectral photoresponse of the GQD/GaN MSM photodiode includes a sharp increase in responsivity at wavelengths shorter than 375 nm. The responsivity of the MSM photodiode is remarkably improved with increasing the GQD reduction temperature (up to 800 °C), showing a good photoresponse in the ultraviolet region.
Can heterolocalism explain the residential patterns of small populations of foreigners in Japan? The cases of Afghans, Laotians, Bolivians and Turks
Authors: Takeshita Shuko , Hanaoka Kazumasa , Ishikawa Yoshitaka
Published: July 2024

This paper examines whether the residential patterns of small nationality‐based ethnic groups in Japan, such as Afghans, Laotians, Bolivians and Turks, can be successfully explained by the model of heterolocalism, which is well‐known for comprehensively explaining the patterns of new immigrants. This verification work is conducted based on census microdata, mapping and interviews with the foreigners. The model is characterized by five propositions, two of which are found not to apply to the Japanese case. Namely, regarding the ‘spatial dispersion’ proposition, a series of small‐sized clusters of foreign inhabitants was confirmed, suggesting that nodal heterolocalism as a modified model is better than the original model. As for the proposition of ‘spatial disjuncture between home and work’, we find that the places of work and residence show spatial proximity rather than separation, reflecting the fact that most of the foreign inhabitants are engaged in blue‐collar occupations. The obtained results serve as criticism of the heterolocalism model, which emphasizes that it is valid not only for the relatively privileged but also for certain lower‐status groups.
COVID-19 Vaccination-Linked Granuloma Annulare in Two Patients
Authors: McIntyre Emma , Lamb Philina , Fung Maxwell A. , Kiuru Maija , Chan Lawrence S.
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic brought not only a huge healthcare challenge to the world but also introduced many questions of how the human immune system reacts to counter viral invasion, including vaccination. Unlike most vaccinations that are not usually linked to any specific skin eruptions, COVID-19 vaccination has been linked to a variety of skin lesions. In this paper, we present two patients who developed granulomatous skin lesions post-COVID-19 vaccination, one patient has generalised granuloma annulare (GA) and the other patient develops localised GA. Both patients have good responses to treatment regimens containing systemic corticosteroids. We review the literature pertaining to COVID-19-linked skin diseases, particularly granulomatous diseases and discuss the possible pathomechanism of granulomatous eruptions in relation to COVID-19 vaccination.
DNA‐Based Conductors: From Materials Design to Ultra‐Scaled Electronics
Authors: Wang Kexin , Deng Pu , Lin Huili , Sun Wei , Shen Jie
Published: July 2024

Photolithography has been the foundational fabrication paradigm in current high‐performance electronics. However, due to the limitation in fabrication resolution, scaling beyond a 20‐nm critical dimension for metal conductors presents a significant challenge for photolithography. Structural DNA nanotechnology emerges as a promising alternative to photolithography, allowing for the site‐specific assembly of nano‐materials at single‐molecule resolution. Substantial progresses have been achieved in the ultra‐scaled DNA‐based conductors, exhibiting novel transport characteristics and small critical dimensions. This review highlights the structure‐transport property relationship for various DNA‐based conductors and their potential applications in quantum /semiconductor electronics, going beyond the conventional scope focusing mainly on the shape diversity of DNA‐templated metals. Different material synthesis methods and their morphological impacts on the conductivities are discussed in detail, with particular emphasis on the conducting mechanisms, such as insulating, metallic conducting, quantum tunneling, and superconducting. Furthermore, the ionic gating effect of self‐assembled DNA structures in electrolyte solutions is examined. This review also suggests potential solutions to address current challenges in DNA‐based conductors, encouraging multi‐disciplinary collaborations for the future development of this exciting area.
Experimental behavior of prestressed concrete beams under simultaneous sustained loading and corrosion
Authors: Di Carlo Fabio , Rinaldi Zila , Meda Alberto , Molaioni Filippo
Published: July 2024

The paper presents an experimental study for the evaluation of the flexural response and failure mode of a prestressed concrete (PC) beam subjected to simultaneous sustained loads and corrosion. The obtained results are judged and discussed also through a comparison with the experimental outcomes on a reference sound PC beam, and a companion specimen subjected to artificial corrosion first, and then tested in bending. The three specimens are characterized by a 200 × 300 mm rectangular cross section, a total length of 3700 mm, and a clear span of 2700 mm. The value of the sustained load, applied with a simultaneous accelerated corrosion process of the strands, was chosen, based on the result of the uncorroded reference beam, to achieve a scenario that can occur in a real structure in situ. The flexural response of the tested element was monitored over a period of 70 days, up to failure, and showed to be highly dependent on the localization of the corrosion phenomena affecting the strands, especially when coinciding with the maximum bending moment position. The obtained results are finally compared with the ones obtained on a PC beam with the same geometry and material properties, first subjected to corrosion and then tested in bending. The differences in corrosion morphology and location and in the failure mode of the strand confirm the importance of accounting for the combined effect of reinforcement corrosion and loading when assessing the structural performance of PC beams.
Lightweight Improved Transmission Line External Mechanical Damage Threats Detection Algorithm
Authors: Wang Yanhai , Guo Chenxin , Wu Deqiang
Published: July 2024

In monitoring transmission line external damage prevention, due to the limited memory computing power of the equipment, the image needs to be transmitted to the data center at regular intervals, resulting in a high false negative rate. Therefore, this paper proposes a target detection method based on lightweight YOLOv5s. First, DSConv and improved E‐ELAN are used in Backbone to reduce the model's parameters. Then, GSConv and VoV‐GSCSP are introduced in Neck to reduce the complexity of the model. Finally, the Mish activation function achieves more effective feature transfer. According to the experimental findings, the proposed model's parameters are about 37% smaller than the original model's, and the calculation amount is about 53% smaller. The detection accuracy on the self‐built data set is the same, which proves that the proposed algorithm can reduce the model while maintaining high detection performance. It has specific practical significance for the terminal real‐time detection of external mechanical damage targets. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Keep Your Memory Dump Shut: Unveiling Data Leaks in Password Managers
Authors: Chatzoglou Efstratios , Kampourakis Vyron , Tsiatsikas Zisis , Karopoulos Georgios , Kambourakis Georgios
Published: July 2024

Password management has long been a persistently challenging task. This led to the introduction of password management software, which has been around for at least 25 years in various forms, including desktop and browser-based applications. This work assesses the ability of two dozen password managers, 12 desktop applications, and 12 browser plugins, to effectively protect the confidentiality of secret credentials in six representative scenarios. Our analysis focuses on the period during which a Password Manager (PM) resides in the RAM. Despite the sensitive nature of these applications, our results show that across all scenarios, only three desktop PM applications and two browser plugins do not store plaintext passwords in the system memory. Oddly enough, at the time of writing, only two vendors recognized the exploit as a vulnerability, reserving CVE-2023-23349, while the rest chose to disregard or underrate the issue.
Split Gröbner Bases for Satisfiability Modulo Finite Fields
Authors: Ozdemir Alex , Pailoor Shankara , Bassa Alp , Ferles Kostas , Barrett Clark , Dillig Işil
Published: July 2024

Satisfiability modulo finite fields enables automated verification for cryptosystems. Unfortunately, previous solvers scale poorly for even some simple systems of field equations, in part because they build a full Gröbner basis (GB) for the system. We propose a new solver that uses multiple, simpler GBs instead of one full GB. Our solver, implemented within the cvc5 SMT solver, admits specialized propagation algorithms, e.g., for understanding bitsums. Experiments show that it solves important bitsum-heavy determinism benchmarks far faster than prior solvers, without introducing much overhead for other benchmarks.
Strided Difference Bound Matrices
Authors: Pitchanathan Arjun , Cohen Albert , Zinenko Oleksandr , Grosser Tobias
Published: July 2024

A wide range of symbolic analysis and optimization problems can be formalized using polyhedra. Sub-classes of polyhedra, also known as sub-polyhedral domains, are sought for their lower space and time complexity. We introduce the Strided Difference Bound Matrix (SDBM) domain, which represents a sweet spot in the context of optimizing compilers. Its expressiveness and efficient algorithms are particularly well suited to the construction of machine learning compilers. We present decision algorithms, abstract domain operators and computational complexity proofs for SDBM. We also conduct an empirical study with the MLIR compiler framework to validate the domain’s practical applicability. We characterize a sub-class of SDBMs that frequently occurs in practice, and demonstrate even faster algorithms on this sub-class.
Verification Algorithms for Automated Separation Logic Verifiers
Authors: Eilers Marco , Schwerhoff Malte , Müller Peter
Published: July 2024

Most automated program verifiers for separation logic use either symbolic execution or verification condition generation to extract proof obligations, which are then handed over to an SMT solver. Existing verification algorithms are designed to be sound, but differ in performance and completeness. These characteristics may also depend on the programs and properties to be verified. Consequently, developers and users of program verifiers have to select a verification algorithm carefully for their application domain. Taking an informed decision requires a systematic comparison of the performance and completeness characteristics of the verification algorithms used by modern separation logic verifiers, but such a comparison does not exist.

This paper describes five verification algorithms for separation logic, three that are used in existing tools and two novel algorithms that combine characteristics of existing symbolic execution and verification condition generation algorithms. A detailed evaluation of implementations of these five algorithms in the Viper infrastructure assesses their performance and completeness for different classes of input programs. Based on the experimental results, we identify candidate portfolios of algorithms that maximize completeness and performance.
Lexicographic Ranking Supermartingales with Lazy Lower Bounds
Authors: Takisaka Toru , Zhang Libo , Wang Changjiang , Liu Jiamou
Published: July 2024

Lexicographic Ranking SuperMartingale (LexRSM) is a probabilistic extension of Lexicographic Ranking Function (LexRF), which is a widely accepted technique for verifying program termination. In this paper, we are the first to propose sound probabilistic extensions of LexRF with a weaker non-negativity condition, called single-component (SC) non-negativity. It is known that such an extension, if it exists, will be nontrivial due to the intricacies of the probabilistic circumstances.

Toward the goal, we first devise the notion of fixability, which offers a systematic approach for analyzing the soundness of possibly negative LexRSM. This notion yields a desired extension of LexRF that is sound for general stochastic processes. We next propose another extension, called Lazy LexRSM, toward the application to automated verification; it is sound over probabilistic programs with linear arithmetics, while its subclass is amenable to automated synthesis via linear programming. We finally propose a LexRSM synthesis algorithm for this subclass, and perform experiments.
Approximate Relational Reasoning for Quantum Programs
Authors: Yan Peng , Jiang Hanru , Yu Nengkun
Published: July 2024

Quantum computation is inevitably subject to imperfections in its implementation. These imperfections arise from various sources, including environmental noise at the hardware level and the introduction of approximate implementations by quantum algorithm designers, such as lower-depth computations. Given the significant advantage of relational logic in program reasoning and the importance of assessing the robustness of quantum programs between their ideal specifications and imperfect implementations, we design a proof system to verify the approximate relational properties of quantum programs. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by providing the first formal verification of the renowned low-depth approximation of the quantum Fourier transform. Furthermore, we validate the approximate correctness of the repeat-until-success algorithm. From the technical point of view, we develop approximate quantum coupling as a fundamental tool to study approximate relational reasoning for quantum programs, a novel generalization of the widely used approximate probabilistic coupling in probabilistic programs, answering a previously posed open question for projective predicates.
Measurement-Based Verification of Quantum Markov Chains
Authors: Guan Ji , Feng Yuan , Turrini Andrea , Ying Mingsheng
Published: July 2024

Model-checking techniques have been extended to analyze quantum programs and communication protocols represented as quantum Markov chains, an extension of classical Markov chains. To specify qualitative temporal properties, a subspace-based quantum temporal logic is used, which is built on Birkhoff-von Neumann atomic propositions. These propositions determine whether a quantum state is within a subspace of the entire state space. In this paper, we propose the measurement-based linear-time temporal logic MLTL to check quantitative properties. MLTL builds upon classical linear-time temporal logic (LTL) but introduces quantum atomic propositions that reason about the probability distribution after measuring a quantum state. To facilitate verification, we extend the symbolic dynamics-based techniques for stochastic matrices described by Agrawal et al. (JACM 2015) to handle more general quantum linear operators (super-operators) through eigenvalue analysis. This extension enables the development of an efficient algorithm for approximately model checking a quantum Markov chain against an MLTL formula. To demonstrate the utility of our model-checking algorithm, we use it to simultaneously verify linear-time properties of both quantum and classical random walks. Through this verification, we confirm the previously established advantages discovered by Ambainis et al. (STOC 2001) of quantum walks over classical random walks and discover new phenomena unique to quantum walks.
Self gravitating spinning string condensates
Authors: Santos Jorge E. , Zigdon Yoav
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In the context of the black hole/string transition, it is useful to produce Euclidean string backgrounds representing hot and self-gravitating strings. We utilise analytical and numerical methods to find a smooth, stationary rotating solution in the heterotic string theory at high temperatures. The solution describes a spinning winding-momentum condensate living in three non-compact dimensions, and its backreaction on the thermal cycle. At low temperatures, we expect a transition between our solution to an analytical continuation of an axionic Kerr black hole.
Components of curvature-squared invariants of minimal supergravity in five dimensions
Authors: Gold Gregory , Hutomo Jessica , Khandelwal Saurish , Tartaglino-Mazzucchelli Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present for the first time the component structure of the supersymmetric completions for all curvature-squared invariants of five-dimensional, off-shell (gauged) minimal supergravity, including all fermions. This is achieved by using an interplay between superspace and superconformal tensor calculus techniques, and by employing results from arXiv:1410.8682 and arXiv:2302.14295. Our analysis is based on using a standard Weyl multiplet of conformal supergravity coupled to a vector and a linear multiplet compensator to engineer off-shell Poincaré supergravity. We compute all the descendants of the composite linear multiplets that describe gauged supergravity together with the three independent four-derivative invariants. These are the building blocks of the locally superconformal invariant actions. A derivation of the primary equations of motion for minimal gauged off-shell supergravity deformed by an arbitrary combination of these three locally superconformal invariants, is then provided. Finally, all the covariant descendants in the multiplets of equations of motion are obtained by applying a series of Q-supersymmetry transformations, equivalent to successively applying superspace spinor derivatives to the primary equations of motion.
Particle shells from relativistic bubble walls
Authors: Baldes Iason , Dichtl Maximilian , Gouttenoire Yann , Sala Filippo
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Relativistic bubble walls from cosmological phase transitions (PT) necessarily accumulate expanding shells of particles. We systematically characterize shell properties, and identify and calculate the processes that prevent them from free streaming: phase-space saturation effects, out-of-equilibrium 2 → 2 and 3 → 2 shell-shell and shell-bath interactions, and shell interactions with bubble walls. We find that shells do not free stream in scenarios widely studied in the literature, where standard predictions will need to be reevaluated, including those of bubble wall velocities, gravitational waves (GW) and particle production. Our results support the use of bulk-flow GW predictions in all regions where shells free stream, irrespectively of whether or not the latent heat is mostly converted in the scalar field gradient.
Judging the algorithm
Authors: Valdivia Ana , Hyde-Vaamonde Cari , García Marcos Julián
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses an algorithmic tool introduced in the Basque Country (Spain) to assess the risk of intimate partner violence. The algorithm was introduced to address the lack of human experts by automatically calculating the level of violence based on psychometric features such as controlling or violent behaviour. Given that critical literature on risk assessment tools for domestic violence mainly focuses on English-speaking countries, this paper offers an algorithmic accountability analysis in a non-English speaking region. It investigates the algorithmic risks, harms, and limitations associated with the Basque tool. We propose a transdisciplinary approach from a critical statistical and legal perspective. This approach unveils issues and limitations that could lead to unexpected consequences for individuals suffering from partner violence. Moreover, our analysis suggests that the algorithmic tool has a high error rate on severe cases, i.e., cases where the aggressor could murder his partner—5 out of 10 high-risk cases are misclassified as low risk—and that there is a lack of appropriate legal guidelines for judges, the end users of this tool. The paper concludes that this risk assessment tool needs to be urgently evaluated by independent and transdisciplinary experts to better mitigate algorithmic harms in the context of intimate partner violence.
The effect of rotationality on nonlinear shear flow of polymer melts and solutions
Authors: Wagner Manfred H. , Liu Shuang , Huang Qian
Published: July 2024

By considering the rotationality of shear flow, we distinguish between tube segments created by reptation before the inception of shear flow and those created during flow. Tube segments created before inception of shear flow experience both stretch and orientation, while tube segments created after inception of flow are not stretched, but are only aligned in the flow direction. Based on this idea, the Rotation Zero Stretch (RZS) model allows for a quantitative description of the start-up of shear flow and stress relaxation after step-shear strain experiments, in agreement with data of polystyrene long/short blends and corresponding polystyrene 3-arm star polymers investigated by Liu et al. (Polymer 2023, 281:126125), as well as the shear viscosity data of poly(propylene carbonate) melts reported by Yang et al. (Nihon Reoroji Gakkaishi 2022, 50:127–135). In the limit of steady-state shear flow, the RZS model converges to the Doi-Edwards IA model, which quantitatively describes the steady-state shear viscosity of linear polymer melts and long/short blends. The assumption of “non-stretching” of tube segments created during rotational flow is therefore in agreement with the available experimental evidence. Three-arm star polymers behave in a similar way as corresponding blends of long and short polymers confirming the solution effect of the short arm in asymmetric stars. The analysis of step-shear strain experiments reveals that stress relaxation is at first dominated by stretch relaxation, followed at times larger than the Rouse stretch relaxation time by relaxation of orientation as described by the damping function of the Doi-Edwards IA model. The RZS model does not require any nonlinear-viscoelastic parameter, but relies solely on the linear-viscoelastic relaxation modulus and the Rouse stretch relaxation time.

Graphical Abstract
On finding one’s way: a comment on Bock et al. (2024)
Authors: Woods Carl T. , Araújo Duarte , Davids Keith
Published: July 2024

In a recent issue of Psychological Research, Bock, O., Huang, J-Y., Onur, O. A., & Memmert, D. (2024). The structure of cognitive strategies for wayfinding decisions. Psychological Research Psychologische Forschung, 88, 476–486. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00426-023-01863-3.) investigated cognitive strategies purported to guide wayfinding decisions at intersections. Following experimentation in a virtualised maze, it was concluded that intersectional wayfinding decisions were based on a ‘generalized cognitive process’, in addition to ‘strategy-specific’ processes. The aim of our comment is not to challenge these findings or their methodological rigour. Rather, we note how the study of human wayfinding has been undertaken from entirely different metatheoretical perspectives in psychological science. Leaning on the seminal work of James Gibson and Harry Heft, we consider wayfinding as a continuous, integrated perception-action process, distributed across the entire organism-environment system. Such a systems-oriented, ecological approach to wayfinding remediates the organismic asymmetry pervasive to extant theories of human behaviours, foregrounding the possibility for empirical investigation that takes seriously the socio-cultural contexts in which inhabitants dwell.
Mitigation of privilege escalation attack using kernel data relocation mechanism
Authors: Kuzuno Hiroki , Yamauchi Toshihiro
Published: July 2024

Kernel memory corruption, which leads to a privilege escalation attack, has been reported as a security threat to operating systems. To mitigate privilege escalation attacks, several security mechanisms are proposed. Kernel address space layout randomization randomizes kernel code and data virtual address layout on the kernel memory. Privileged information protection methods monitor and restore illegal privilege modifications. Therefore, if an adversary identifies the kernel data containing privileged information, an adversary can achieve the privilege escalation in a running kernel. This paper proposes a kernel data relocation mechanism (KDRM) that dynamically relocates privileged information in the running kernel to mitigate privilege escalation attacks. The KDRM introduces the relocation-only page into the kernel. The relocation-only page allows the virtual address of the privileged information to change by dynamically relocating for the user process. One of the relocation-only pages is randomly selected to store the privileged information at the system call invocations. The evaluation results indicate the possibility of mitigating privilege escalation attacks through direct memory overwriting by user processes on Linux with KDRM. The KDRM showed an acceptable performance cost. The overhead of a system call was up to 11.52%, and the kernel performance score was 0.11%.
Deciphering the prognostic role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in lung adenocarcinoma: integrating prognostic prediction and immunotherapy strategies
Authors: Wen Bing , Zhang Pengpeng , Xie Jiping , Zhou Zhaokai , Zhang Ge , Zhang Lianmin , Zhang Zhenfa
Published: July 2024

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is a critical factor influencing lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) progression and patient outcomes. In this study, we analyzed gene expression data from LUAD samples sourced from The Cancer Genomic Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Utilizing advanced statistical methods including LASSO and Cox regression, we developed a ERS-associated signature (ERAS) based on ten ERS-related genes. This model stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups, with the high-risk group exhibiting decreased survival rates, elevated tumor mutational burden, and heightened chemotherapy sensitivity. Additionally, we observed lower immune and ESTIMATE scores in the high-ERAS group, indicating a potentially compromised immune response. Experimental validation through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction confirmed the utility of our model. Furthermore, we constructed a nomogram to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates, providing clinicians with a valuable tool for personalized patient management. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the efficacy of the ERAS in identifying high-ERAS LUAD patients, offering promising implications for improved prognostication and treatment strategies.
A mixed approach to the heterogeneity of the short-term rentals’ regulation in Spain
Authors: Viana-Lora Alba , Sánchez-Cubo Francisco
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to analyse the current situation of STRs and their regulation in Spain in order to determine whether the restrictions applied contributed to alleviating the volume of STRs. For this purpose, a database from the experimental statistics on tourist accommodation on houses provided by the National Institute of Statistics of Spain and the regional and municipal regulations on STRs have been used. The upward or downward trends of STRs have been examined and linked to the existing regulation. Then, the municipalities were classified according to the type of regulatory measure: laissez-faire, limitation or prohibition. The trend and the problems linked to STRs lead us to believe that more and more municipalities will opt to regulate the activity, seeking a balance between the economic benefit and the social impact of tourism.