bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights Into Guanine Radical Cation Deprotonation Using the Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Mechanics/Molecular Mechanics (ABEEM) Methods
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Cui , Gong Lidong , Yang Zhongzhi
Published: September 2024

In double‐stranded DNA, a rapid deprotonation of guanine radical cation (G•+) hinders the long‐distance transfer of positive charge (hole). It is significant to explore the proton transfer of G•+ for designing other DNA structures with high electrical conductivity. The deprotonation of G•+ is explored in the 1H2O, 2H2O, 3H2O, and 9H2O models by quantum mechanics (QM) method. The results indicate that the second hydration shell facilitates proton transfer. The QM/molecular mechanics (MM) (ABEEM) method accurately simulates polarization and charge transfer effects through the implementation of the reactive valence‐state electronegativity piecewise functions and setting local charge conservation conditions. The QM/MM(ABEEM) method has been developed to investigate the 9H2O model. The obtained activation energy (16.3 ± 0.8 kJ/mol) through molecular dynamics simulations is consistent with experimental data (15.1 ± 1.5 kJ/mol), demonstrating the accuracy of the QM/MM(ABEEM) method in simulating proton transfer in the DNA system. The deprotonation rate of G•+ in the free base (1.5 × 107 s−1) is faster than that of G•+ within double‐stranded DNA (106–107 s−1), which indicates that the free G base is an avoidable participant when designing hole transfer carrier due to its rapid deprotonation rate. Concurrently, the relationship between the proton transfer distance and potential barrier is monotone increasing, meaning that the long‐range proton transfer corresponds to high energy barrier. The molecule involved in long‐range proton transfer of G•+ is more suitable as DNA electronic devices. This research provides valuable microscopic insight into deprotonation to advance the advancement of DNA structures with high electrical conductivity.
Quantum Generative Adversarial Networks in a Silicon Photonic Chip with Maximum Expressibility
Authors: Ma Haoran , Ye Liao , Guo Xiaoqing , Ruan Fanjie , Zhao Zichao , Li Maohui , Wang Yuehai , Yang Jianyi
Published: September 2024

Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have achieved remarkable success with realistic tasks such as creating realistic images, texts, and audio. Combining GANs and quantum computing, quantum GANs are thought to have an exponential advantage over their classical counterparts due to the stronger expressibility of quantum circuits. In this research, a two‐qubit silicon quantum photonic chip is created, capable of executing arbitrary controlled‐unitary () operations and generating any two‐qubit pure state, thus making it an excellent platform for quantum GANs. To capture complex data patterns, a hybrid generator is proposed to inject nonlinearity into quantum GANs. As a demonstration, three generative tasks, covering both pure quantum versions of GANs (PQ‐GANs) and hybrid quantum‐classical GANs (HQC‐GANs), are successfully carried out on the chip, including high‐fidelity single‐qubit state learning, classical distributions loading, and compressed image production. The experiment results prove that silicon quantum photonic chips have great potential in generative learning applications.
Classification of Shoulder Implant Manufacturer Using Pre‐Trained DenseNet201 Combined With Capsule Network
Authors: Jian Xianzhong , Zhou Zhenling , Zhang Wuwen
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aims to accelerate revision surgery and treatment using X‐ray imaging and deep learning to identify shoulder implant manufacturers in advance.

Methods

A feature engineering approach based on principal component analysis and a k‐means algorithm was used to cluster shoulder implant data. In addition, a pre‐trained DenseNet201 combined with a capsule network (DenseNet201‐Caps) shoulder implant classification model was proposed.

Results

DenseNet201‐Caps was the most effective classification model on the clustered dataset with an accuracy of 94.25% and an F1 score of 96.30%. Notably, clustering the dataset in advance improved the accuracy and the Caps implementations successfully enhanced the performance of all convolutional neural network models. The analysed results indicate that DenseNet201‐Caps struggled to distinguish between the Cofield and Depuy manufacturers. Hence, a multistage classification approach was developed with an improved accuracy of 96.55% achieved.

Conclusions

The DenseNet201‐Caps method enables the accurate identification of shoulder implant manufacturers.
Well‐Designed 2D/2D/2D Ternary ZCO/CN/TiC Nanocomposite for Efficient Photocatalytic H2 Production Through Water Splitting Under Visible Light
Authors: Khalifa Wesam Alsayeh , Ikreedeegh Riyadh Ramadhan , Alkbir Munir Faraj Almabrouk , Janudd Mohd Al Fatihhi Mohd Szali
Published: September 2024

Photocatalytic water splitting is considered as one of the most promising technologies for hydrogen production. A novel 2D/2D/2D ZnCo2O4/g‐C3N4/Ti3C2 (ZCO/CN/TiC) nanocomposite was synthesized through a facile thermal method for efficient photocatalytic H2 production under visible light. This multi‐heterojunction system displayed an efficient performance with higher H2 production rates compared to single catalysts. The experimental results revealed a hydrogen production rate of 1465 µmol g−1 for the ZCO/CN/TiC ternary composite after 4 h of light irradiation, which is about 3.8 and 2.5 times higher than that of g‐C3N4 and g‐C3N4/Ti3C2, respectively. This significant enhancement is mainly attributed to the efficient charge transfer within the constructed heterojunction system and due to the presence of MXene (Ti3C2), which acted as a solid electron mediator to suppress the charge recombination rate. Both the type and the amount of used sacrificial agent have exhibited a significant effect on the H2 production rate. The ZCO/CN/TiC ternary nanocomposite has also displayed the best quantum yield (QY = 1.316). The newly developed structured photocatalyst would provide a promising approach for the construction of easyprepared and noble‐metal‐free photocatalysts for the application of clean and sustainable fuel production.
Examining the applicability of virtual battle space for stress management training in military personnel—A validation study
Authors: Schilder Frank P. M. , Withagen Frederique M. , de Weijer Antoin D. , Bruinsma Bastiaan , Geuze Elbert
Published: September 2024

Military personnel are often exposed to high levels of both physical and psychological challenges in their work environment and therefore it is important to be trained on how to handle stressful situations. The primary aim of this study was to examine whether military‐specific virtual battle space (VBS) scenarios could elicit a physiological and subjective stress response in healthy military personnel, as compared to that of a virtual reality height exposure (VR‐HE) stress task that has shown to reliably increase stress levels. Twenty participants engaged in two VBS scenarios and the VR‐HE during separate sessions, while measurements of heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), respiration rate, and subjective stress levels were collected. Contrary to our initial expectations, analysis revealed that neither of the VBS scenarios induced a significant stress response, as indicated by stable HR, HRV, and low subjective stress levels. However, the VR‐HE task did elicit a significant physiological stress response, evidenced by increased HR and HRV changes, aligning with previous research findings. Moreover, no discernible alterations were detected in cognitive performance subsequent to these stressors. These results suggest that the current VBS scenarios, despite their potential, may not be effective for stress‐related training activities within military settings. The absence of a significant stress response in the VBS conditions points to the need for more immersive and engaging scenarios. By integrating interactive and demanding elements, as well as physical feedback systems and real‐time communication, VBS training might better mimic real‐world stressors and improve stress resilience in military personnel. The findings of this study have broader implications for stress research and training, suggesting the need for scenario design improvements in virtual training environments to effectively induce stress and improve stress management across various high‐stress professions.
Bidirectional pH Buffer Effect Facilitates High‐Reversible Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Lv Rongguang , Chen Zhuo , Zhou Weihua , Zhang Lun , Sheng Lin , Yao Pengfei , Wang Feng Ryan , Hao Zhangxiang , Feng Junrun
Published: September 2024

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) stand out from the crowd of energy storage equipment for their superior energy density, enhanced safety features, and affordability. However, the notorious side reaction in the zinc anode and the dissolution of the cathode materials led to poor cycling stability has hindered their further development. Herein, ammonium salicylate (AS) is a bidirectional electrolyte additive to promote prolonged stable cycles in AZIBs. NH4+ and C6H4OHCOO− collaboratively stabilize the pH at the interface of the electrolyte/electrode and guide the homogeneous deposition of Zn2+ at the zinc anode. The higher adsorption energy of NH4+ compared to H2O on the Zn (002) crystal plane mitigates the side reactions on the anode surface. Moreover, NH4+ is similarly adsorbed on the cathode surface, maintaining the stability of the electrode. C6H4OHCOO− and Zn2+ are co‐intercalation/deintercalation during the cycling process, contributing to the higher electrochemical performance of the full cell. As a result, with the presence of AS additive, the Zn//Zn symmetric cells achieved 700 h of highly reversible cycling at 5 mA cm−2. In addition, the assembled NH4V4O10(NVO)//Zn coin and pouch batteries achieved higher capacity and higher cycle lifetime, demonstrating the practicality of the AS electrolyte additive.
Chiral Mesostructure‐Induced Ferroelectricity and Photoelectric Chiral Anisotropy of MnWO4
Authors: Zuo Jianwei , Deng Quanzheng , Han Lu , Che Shunai , Duan Yingying
Published: September 2024

Creating ferroelectricity in centrosymmetric and paramagnetic materials through nanostructures presents a challenge in materials science due to their high symmetry and paired spins. Herein, the induction of chirality‐induced ferroelectricity and photoelectric chiral anisotropy in chiral mesostructured MnWO4 films (CMWFs) resulting from spin chiral anisotropy in chiral mesostructures is reported. The CMWFs, prepared via a hydrothermal route induced by chiral molecules, consists of densely packed MnWO4 nanoparticle crystals exhibiting long‐range ordered helical lattice distortion grown perpendicularly along the 010 axis on the substrates. These CMWFs exhibit ferroelectric properties with a Curie temperature of ≈60 °C and photoelectric chiral anisotropy with an anisotropy factor of ≈0.5. The findings pave the way for ferroelectricity through long‐range spin current via chirality.
Teaching Multilingual Learners in Rural Communities: Negotiating Ethics of Teacher Identity
Authors: Li Shuzhan , Jiang Lei , Sun Wenyang , Fan Feifei
Published: September 2024

Immigration, economic, and demographic changes have brought about rich cultural and linguistic diversity in rural communities. With rural schools receiving increasing numbers of multilingual learners, providing equitable educational opportunities for multilingual learners in rural schools is a pressing issue facing educators and scholars today. However, there is limited research on how to best prepare teachers and educators to meet multilingual learners' linguistic, academic, and socioemotional needs. Drawing from a Foucauldian perspective on ethics and teacher identity, this narrative inquiry study presents data from interviews and observations with one rural teacher and ethnographic observations in a rural school in southeastern United States. Findings reveal that the teacher engaged in culturally sustaining practices for multilingual learners, defied established educational policies and prescribed community norms to advocate for multilingual students and families, and achieved ethical self‐formation to meet the telos, or end goals, of her teacher identity. The compelling stories from one rural teacher in this study shed light on the status quo of rural multilingual learner education and offer implications for teachers, education leaders, and teacher educators to positively influence the educative experiences of rural multilingual learners and promote educational equity in rural schools.
The effect of calcite on the mechanical, morphological and thermal properties of virgin and recycled thermoplastic copolyester elastomer composites
Authors: Sucu Yunus Emre , Dandan Doğancı Merve
Published: September 2024

In this study, the effects of stearic acid‐coated calcite (CaCO3) were investigated on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of thermoplastic copolyester elastomers (COPE or TPE‐E) and recycled COPEs (R‐COPE). R‐COPE, which consist of process wastes that are qualified as postindustrial recycled (PIR), were physically 100% recycled. The composites (virgin and recycled COPE) containing different concentrations of calcite (5–30 wt%) were prepared by melt compounding. It has been determined that mechanical properties such as impact strength and modulus increase with calcite concentration, while tensile strength decreases at higher concentrations owing to the stronger interfacial relationships between the polymer matrix and filler. Morphological studies revealed a good dispersion of calcite fillers at lower concentrations in the polymer matrix. The final composites obtained from recycled polymer had almost similar mechanical properties compared to virgin ones. This showed that recycled COPE could be used in many areas specifically automotive industry, as it gave results close to its original state with the addition of calcite with decreased cost.

Highlights

COPE were melt‐blended with stearic acid‐coated calcite (CaCO3).

Recycled‐COPEs were obtained from the physical recycling of factory production waste.

The mechanical properties such as tensile modulus increased with calcite concentration.

The thermal properties increased with increasing calcite concentration.

R‐COPE composites were obtained without any decrease in properties.
Comprehensive study of Buongiorno nanofluid model for MHD Casson flow on an inclined porous stretching surface with heat source/sink and viscous dissipation
Authors: Sarma Gobburu Sreedhar , Narender Ganji , Govardhan Kamatam
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this investigation is to use a Buongiorno fluid model to examine the characteristics of a magneto hydrodynamic Casson nanofluid flowing over a nonlinear inclined porous stretching surface under the influence of heat source or sink effects and viscous dissipation. By employing similarity transformations, the governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which are numerically solved using Mathematica software. The results are presented in graphical and tabular formats to depict variations in velocity, temperature and concentration profiles. Additionally, numerical results for Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are tabulated. The accuracy and validity of the study's findings are confirmed through comparisons with existing literature. Notably, this investigation reveals that a higher rate of viscous dissipation and heat generation or absorption leads to a lower heat transfer coefficient and a higher mass transfer coefficient.
Two‐dimensional MHD boundary layer flow of a ternary hybrid nanofluid across a stretching sheet with inclined MHD: Numerical approach
Authors: Fiza Mehreen , Abas Syed Arshad , Ullah Hakeem , Akgul Ali , Aljohani Abdulrahman F. , Khan Ilyas
Published: September 2024

Increasing the efficiency of a thermal system is important in a wide variety of technological contexts, such as vehicle cooling systems, power production, microelectronics, heat exchangers, and air conditioning. The current study examines a boundary layer two‐dimensional inclined magnetohydrodynamic flow of a ternary hybrid nanofluid across a stretching sheet that includes nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are combined with water as the base fluid to form a ternary hybrid nanofluid. The present work aims to analyze the impact of several slip conditions utilizing Arrhenius' activation energy along with the binary chemical reaction on the flow profiles. To characterize the model, a system of partial differential equations (PDEs) is utilized. With the assistance of similarity transformations, the given PDEs of the form are converted into ordinary differential equations. The leading equations are subjected to boundary layer theory, and then the system is numerically tackled with the help of the built‐in numerical approach bvp4c. Results obtained from this numerical solution are presented in graphs and tables which are discussed briefly. The results indicate that there is a downward trend in the velocity profile if the enhancement occurs in both the velocity slip and the magnetic component. A lower temperature is achieved through the use of the temperature slip parameters. In addition, it turned out that a rise in the Eckert number caused an upswing in the surface temperature of a sheet. The activation energy escalates the concentration profile, while the Schmidt number and chemical reaction rate both are falls. The Sherwood number improved when the values of Brownian motion and thermophoresis factors enlarged while the local Nusselt number became lower.
Interdisciplinary Collaborations for European Energy Policy and Governance
Authors: Crowther Ami , Foulds Chris , Robison Rosie , Gladkykh Ganna
Published: September 2024

The European Union (EU) has set out ambitious targets to address European sustainability and environmental challenges. As part of this, policies and initiatives focusing on both energy supply and energy demand have been established. Yet, the complexity of enacting the required actions demonstrates the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to inform approaches. The integration of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) and the technical sciences (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)) provides opportunities to identify policy approaches which challenge the status quo, supporting low-carbon energy transitions. This book includes interdisciplinary recommendations for relevant EU energy strategies—a total of 10 recommendations, split into four parts, are presented. This chapter includes a breakdown of the book’s chapters and its overall narrative. The chapter closes with tips on how to read the book as a whole, as well as the individual chapters it is composed of.
Understand Stakeholder Perceptions and Implementation Possibilities for Energy Efficiency Measures and Policy Through Multicriteria Modelling
Authors: Buylova Alexandra , Larsson Aron , Nasiritousi Naghmeh , Siddiqui Afzal S.
Published: September 2024

Policy Highlights

To achieve the recommendation stated in the chapter title, we propose the following:

Stakeholders can be better engaged in energy efficiency decisions through the use of multicriteria models.

Decision-makers should present trade-offs, such as cost and emissions, and combinations of acceptable solutions to various stakeholders such as the public, housing associations, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions.

Decision-makers should adopt a user-centred approach to energy efficiency measures by encouraging stakeholder dialogues around decision-support tools (e.g. multicriteria modelling) to improve understanding of costs and benefits of measures.

Decision-makers should identify opportunities for consensus building and mindset shifts about the wider benefits of energy efficiency measures by emphasising their social considerations.

Using Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) perspectives can strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) led multicriteria models that visualise trade-offs as well as identify plausible conflicts among stakeholders.
Simplify the Uptake of Community Energy by Leveraging Intermediaries and the Use of Digital Planning Tools
Authors: Mey Franziska , Borch Kristian , Bosch Stephan , Ebersbach Benita , Hecht Robert , Holstenkamp Lars , Radtke Jörg
Published: September 2024

Policy Highlights

To achieve the recommendation stated in the chapter title, we propose the following:

Ensure the follow-up and implementation of EU policy measures, including by conducting quality assessments and introducing national community energy targets.

Foster institutional allies at local and regional levels.

Provide access to and capacities for using digital planning tools.

Nurture knowledge and method integration across STEM and SSH disciplines to develop practices and tools to effectively implement community-led initiatives.
Facilitate the Development of Energy Literacy Amongst Citizens to Support Their Meaningful Participation in the Energy Transition
Authors: Calver Philippa , Crowther Ami , Brown Claire
Published: September 2024

Policy Highlights

To achieve the recommendation stated in the chapter title, we propose the following:

Ensure that citizens have appropriate knowledge to meaningfully participate in the energy transition by providing accessible information that reflects citizens' contexts.

Consider the framing of information to support participation in the energy transition, including the broader impact, and relationships of energy transitions with other aspects of everyday life.

Draw upon existing networks, independent intermediaries, and communication channels to build trust in the information provided.

Bring together Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) and more technical researchers to explore potential energy futures and the diverse knowledge required for citizens to meaningfully participate in, and benefit from, these energy futures.
Protect the EU’s Digital Energy Infrastructure Against Cyberthreats Through Advanced Technologies, Human Vulnerability Mitigation, and Ethical Practices
Authors: Mersni Amal , Novikau Aliaksandr , Koczan Marcin , Shobole Abdulfetah Abdela
Published: September 2024

Policy Highlights

To achieve the recommendation stated in the chapter title, we propose the following:

EU Member States must enforce the implementation of a comprehensive, multi-layered security approach to enhance and strengthen the defence of digital energy systems.

EU Member States must enforce mandatory cybersecurity training programmes to address human vulnerabilities. Energy operators must undertake these programmes to ensure adequate education and promote digital hygiene.

All EU Member States should deploy Artificial Intelligence ethically to improve the sector’s cybersecurity while sharing the technology’s benefits equitably with all stakeholders.

Interdisciplinary approaches, combining Engineering and Social Science insights, can inform recommendations to address complex cybersecurity challenges.
Cosmological correlators with double massive exchanges: bootstrap equation and phenomenology
Authors: Aoki Shuntaro , Pinol Lucas , Sano Fumiya , Yamaguchi Masahide , Zhu Yuhang
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Using the recently developed cosmological bootstrap method, we compute the exact analytical solution for the seed integral appearing in cosmological correlators with double massive scalar exchanges. The result is explicit, valid in any kinematic configuration, and free from spurious divergences. It is applicable to any number of fields’ species with any masses. With an appropriate choice of variables, the results contain only single-layer summations. We also propose simple approximate formulas valid in different limits, enabling direct and instantaneous evaluation. Supported by exact numerical results using CosmoFlow, we explore the phenomenology of double massive exchange diagrams. Contrary to single-exchange diagrams with ubiquitous Lorentz-covariant interactions, the size of the cubic coupling constant can be large while respecting perturbativity bounds. Because of this property, the primordial bispectrum from double-exchange diagrams can be as large as, coincidentally, current observational constraints. In addition to being sizable on equilateral configurations, we show that the primordial bispectrum exhibits a large cosmological collider signal in the squeezed limit, making the double massive exchanges interesting channels for the detection of massive primordial fields. We propose to decisively disentangle double-exchange channels from single-exchange ones with cosmological observations by exploiting the phase information of the cosmological collider signal, the inflationary flavor oscillations from multiple fields’ species exchanges and the double soft limit in the primordial trispectrum.
Analytic approach for computation of topological number of integrable vortex on torus
Authors: Miyamoto Kaoru , Nakamula Atsushi
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Detailed structures of vortices on a torus are discovered by performing an analytic method to calculate the vortex number. We focus on analytic vortex solutions to the Chern-Simons-Higgs theory, whose governing equation is the so-called Jackiw-Pi equation. The equation is one of the integrable vortex equations and is reduced to Liouville’s equation. The requirement of continuity of the Higgs field strongly restricts the characteristics and the fundamental domain of the vortices. Also considered are the decompactification limits of the vortices on a torus, in which “flux loss” phenomena occasionally occur.
From higher-spin gauge interactions to Compton amplitudes for root-Kerr
Authors: Cangemi Lucile , Chiodaroli Marco , Johansson Henrik , Ochirov Alexander , Pichini Paolo , Skvortsov Evgeny
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We develop massive higher-spin theory as a framework for describing dynamics of rotating compact objects, such as Kerr black holes. In this paper, we explore gauge interactions up to quartic order and corresponding Compton amplitudes of higher-spin massive objects coupled to electromagnetism and Yang-Mills theory. Their classical counterparts are known as root-Kerr gauge-theory solutions, whose amplitudes are closely related to those of Kerr black holes. We use three distinct approaches: (i) massive higher-spin gauge symmetry to introduce cubic interactions for all spins and the quartic interactions up to spin 3, which is implemented both off shell and via Ward identities; (ii) a chiral higher-spin approach to construct quartic Lagrangians with correct degrees of freedom to all spins; (iii) on-shell functional patterns before and after taking the classical limit to constrain the Compton amplitudes. As final results, we arrive at simple local formulae for the candidate root-Kerr Compton amplitudes both in the quantum regime and classical limit, to all orders in spin. This is a precursor to the gravitational Kerr case, which is presented in a follow-up paper.
Neutrinoless double beta decay rates in the presence of light sterile neutrinos
Authors: Dekens W. , de Vries J. , Castillo D. , Menéndez J. , Mereghetti E. , Plakkot V. , Soriano P. , Zhou G.
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We investigate neutrinoless double-beta decay (0νββ) in minimal extensions of the Standard Model of particle physics where gauge-singlet right-handed neutrinos give rise to Dirac and Majorana neutrino mass terms. We argue that the standard treatment of these scenarios, based on mass-dependent nuclear matrix elements, is missing important contributions to the 0νββ amplitude. First, new effects arise from the exchange of neutrinos with very small (ultrasoft) momenta, for which we compute the associated nuclear matrix elements for the decays of 76Ge and 136Xe. These contributions can dominate the 0νββ rate in cases with light sterile neutrinos. The ultrasoft terms are also relevant in the more standard scenario of just three light Majorana neutrinos where they lead to a 10% reduction of the total 0νββ amplitude. Secondly, we highlight the importance of short-range terms associated with medium-heavy sterile neutrinos and provide explicit formulae that can be used in phenomenological analyses. As examples we discuss impact of these new effects in several explicit scenarios, including a realistic 3 + 2 model with two right-handed gauge-singlet neutrinos.
Probing bottom-associated production of a TeV scale scalar decaying to a top quark and dark matter at the LHC
Authors: Kalsi Amandeep Kaur , Kamon Teruki , Kim Seulgi , Lee Jason S. H. , Rathjens Denis , Roh Youn Jung , Thompson Adrian , Watson Ian James
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A minimal non-thermal dark matter model that can explain both the existence of dark matter and the baryon asymmetry in the universe is studied. It requires two color-triplet, iso-singlet scalars with $$ \mathcal{O}\left(\textrm{TeV}\right) $$
O

TeV

masses and a singlet Majorana fermion with a mass of $$ \mathcal{O}\left(\textrm{GeV}\right) $$
O

GeV

. The fermion becomes stable and can play the role of the dark matter candidate. We consider the fermion to interact with a top quark via the exchange of QCD-charged scalar fields coupled dominantly to third generation fermions. The signature of a single top quark production associated with a bottom quark and large missing transverse momentum opens up the possibility to search for this type of model at the LHC in a way complementary to existing monotop searches.
A New Gauge for Gravitational Perturbations of Kerr Spacetimes I: The Linearised Theory
Authors: Benomio Gabriele
Published: September 2024

We propose a new geometric framework to address the stability of the Kerr solution to gravitational perturbations in the full sub-extremal range $$|a|<M$$

|
a
|
<
M

. Central to our framework is a new formulation of nonlinear gravitational perturbations of Kerr, whose two novel ingredients are the choice of a geometric gauge and non-integrable null frames both tailored to the outgoing principal null geodesics of Kerr. The vacuum Einstein equations for the perturbations are formulated in our gauge as a system of equations for the connection coefficients and curvature components relative to the chosen frames. When renormalised with respect to Kerr, the null structure equations with the form of outgoing transport equations do not possess any derivatives of renormalised connection coefficients on the right hand side. In this work, we derive the linearised vacuum Einstein equations around Kerr in the new framework. The system of linearised gravity exhibits two key structural properties. The first is well-known and consists of the exact decoupling of two gauge invariant linearised quantities in the system, satisfying two decoupled spin $$\pm \, 2$$

±

2

Teukolsky equations. The second is a new, gauge dependent structure in the outgoing transport equations for the linearised connection coefficients inherited from the nonlinear system: Unlike previous works, these equations do not contain any derivatives of linearised connection coefficients on the right hand side and induce a new hierarchy of only outgoing transport equations including all gauge dependent linearised quantities. Our new framework is designed to effectively capture the stabilising properties of the red-shifted transport equations, thereby isolating one of the crucial structures of the problem. Such a feature is suggestive of future simplifications in the analysis. As an illustration, our companion work (Benomio in A new gauge for gravitational perturbations of Kerr spacetimes II: The linear stability of Schwarzschild revisited, 2022) employs the system of linearised gravity and its enhanced red-shifted transport equations, specialised to the $$|a|=0$$

|
a
|
=
0

case, to produce a new simplified proof of linear stability of the Schwarzschild solution. The full linear stability analysis in the full sub-extremal range $$|a|<M$$

|
a
|
<
M

is deferred to future work. As already apparent from (Benomio 2022), our framework will allow to combine the new structure in the transport equations with the elliptic part of the system to establish a linear orbital stability result without loss of derivatives, indicating that the framework may be well suited to address nonlinear stability in the full sub-extremal range $$|a|<M$$

|
a
|
<
M

.
Dynamics of Mean-Field Fermi Systems with Nonzero Pairing
Authors: Marcantoni Stefano , Porta Marcello , Sabin Julien
Published: September 2024

We study the dynamics of many-body Fermi systems, for a class of initial data which are close to quasi-free states exhibiting a nonvanishing pairing matrix. We focus on the mean-field scaling, which for fermionic systems is naturally coupled with a semiclassical scaling. Under the assumption that the initial datum enjoys a suitable semiclassical structure, we give a rigorous derivation of the time-dependent Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov equation, a nonlinear effective evolution equation for the generalized one-particle density matrix of the system, as the number of particles goes to infinity. Our result holds for all macroscopic times, and provides bounds for the rate of convergence.
Totally Geodesic and Parallel Hypersurfaces of Cahen-Wallach Spacetimes
Authors: Calvaruso Giovanni , Pellegrino Lorenzo
Published: September 2024

We completely classify and describe totally geodesic hypersurfaces of Cahen-Wallach spacetimes. We also describe parallel hypersurfaces and investigate their geometric properties.
Eindrucksvolle Manifestation und unerwarteter Therapieverlauf eines Diabetes mellitus bei einem 22-jährigen Patienten
Authors: Werner Christoph , Schmidt Sebastian , Kellner Christiane , Burghardt Katharina , Reuken Philipp A. , Kloos Christof , Wolf Gunter
Published: September 2024

Wir berichten über einen 22-jährigen Patienten, der nach einer längeren Remission ohne antidiabetische Therapie bei MODY („maturity onset diabetes of the young“) 12 (Gen ABCC8, nach ACMG-Kriterien Klasse 3) nach akuter Entgleisung und chronischer Hyperglykämie ein gutes Ansprechen auf Glimepirid zeigt. Wir geben einen kurzen Überblick über die pathogenetischen Grundlagen dieser genetischen Erkrankung und wollen das Bewusstsein für diese therapeutisch wichtige Entität schärfen.
Analysis of a global wheat panel reveals a highly diverse introgression landscape and provides evidence for inter-homoeologue chromosomal recombination
Authors: Heuberger Matthias , Bernasconi Zoe , Said Mahmoud , Jung Esther , Herren Gerhard , Widrig Victoria , Šimková Hana , Keller Beat , Sánchez-Martín Javier , Wicker Thomas
Published: September 2024

Key message

This study highlights the agronomic potential of rare introgressions, as demonstrated by a major QTL for powdery mildew resistance on chromosome 7D. It further shows evidence for inter-homoeologue recombination in wheat.

Agriculturally important genes are often introgressed into crops from closely related donor species or landraces. The gene pool of hexaploid bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) is known to contain numerous such “alien” introgressions. Recently established high-quality reference genome sequences allow prediction of the size, frequency and identity of introgressed chromosome regions. Here, we characterise chromosomal introgressions in bread wheat using exome capture data from the WHEALBI collection. We identified 24,981 putative introgression segments of at least 2 Mb across 434 wheat accessions. Detailed study of the most frequent introgressions identified T. timopheevii or its close relatives as a frequent donor species. Importantly, 118 introgressions of at least 10 Mb were exclusive to single wheat accessions, revealing that large populations need to be studied to assess the total diversity of the wheat pangenome. In one case, a 14 Mb introgression in chromosome 7D, exclusive to cultivar Pamukale, was shown by QTL mapping to harbour a recessive powdery mildew resistance gene. We identified multiple events where distal chromosomal segments of one subgenome were duplicated in the genome and replaced the homoeologous segment in another subgenome. We propose that these examples are the results of inter-homoeologue recombination. Our study produced an extensive catalogue of the wheat introgression landscape, providing a resource for wheat breeding. Of note, the finding that the wheat gene pool contains numerous rare, but potentially important introgressions and chromosomal rearrangements has implications for future breeding.
A qualitative analysis on the double porous thermoelastic bodies with microtemperature
Authors: Florea O. A. , Craciun E. M. , Öchsner A. , Emin A. N.
Published: September 2024

This study examines a mixed initial-boundary value problem in thermoelastic materials with a double porosity structure, taking into account the effects of microtemperature. The existence of a solution is established by converting the problem into a Cauchy-type problem. Given the complexity of the equations, unknowns, and conditions, we apply contraction semigroup theory within a specific Hilbert space. We prove the existence of a solution using the Lax-Milgram theorem. Additionally, the uniqueness of the solution is demonstrated based on the Lumer-Phillips corollary, which corresponds to the Hille-Yosida theorem. In the final section, we show the continuous dependence of the solution on the mixed initial-boundary value problem for double porous thermoelasticity with microtemperature.
Role of diffusion-weighted imaging in the diagnosis of pituitary region tumors
Authors: Korbecki Adrian , Wagel Justyna , Zacharzewska-Gondek Anna , Gewald Maja , Korbecka Justyna , Sobański Michał , Kacała Arkadiusz , Zdanowicz-Ratajczyk Agata , Kaczorowski Maciej , Hałoń Agnieszka , Trybek Grzegorz , Kapetanakis Stylianos , Bladowska Joanna
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the role of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) in routine pituitary Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) protocols for distinguishing sellar and parasellar tumors, addressing the lack of clear guidelines in contemporary literature.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 242 pituitary MRI scans with DWI sequences was conducted in a single-center study using a 1.5 T scanner and standard DWI sequence parameters. Measurements of both absolute and relative mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, along with minimal ADC values within tumors, were performed. The adopted region of interest (ROI) based method used for these measurements was validated.

Results

Invasive pituitary adenomas exhibited significantly lower min ADC and min rADC than meningiomas, with optimal cut-off points of 0.64 (sensitivity 73%, specificity 82%) and 0.78 (sensitivity 73%, specificity 89%), respectively. Post-hemorrhagic pituitary adenomas demonstrated lower ADC values than adamantinomatous craniopharyngiomas, with an AUC of 0.893 for min rADC = 1.07, and Rathke’s Cleft Cysts with mucous content, AUC 0.8 for min rADC = 1.01. Specific differentiation with high sensitivity and specificity based on diffusion parameters was observed for these tumor groups. Cystic pituitary non-functional adenomas obtained significantly lower ADC values compared to the adamantinomatous type of craniopharyngiomas and serous Rathke’s Cleft Cysts (AUC up to 0.942).

Conclusions

The study concludes that integrating DWI into routine pituitary MRI protocols enhances diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing sellar and parasellar tumors. The short scan time of one minute makes DWI a valuable and precise tool, supporting its recommendation as a standard component of pituitary MRI examinations.
Potential Plant-To-Plant Transmission: Shared Endophytic Bacterial Community Between Ziziphus lotus and Its Parasite Cuscuta epithymum
Authors: Radouane Nabil , Errafii Khaoula , Mouhib Salma , Mhand Khadija Ait , Legeay Jean , Hijri Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Microbiota associated with host–parasite relationships offer an opportunity to explore interactions among plants, parasites, and microbes, thereby contributing to the overall complexity of community structures. The dynamics of ecological interactions between parasitic plants and their hosts in arid environments remain largely understudied, especially in Africa. This study aimed to examine the bacterial communities of Cuscuta epithymum L. (clover dodder), an epiphytic parasitic plant, and its host, Ziziphus lotus L. (jujuba), in an arid environment. Our goal was to uncover the ecological complexities of microbial communities within the framework of plant–plant interactions. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the bacterial composition and diversity within populations of the C. epithymum parasite, the infected- and non-infected jujuba host, and their interface at the shoots of the host. This involved amplicon sequencing, targeting the V5–V6 regions of the 16S rRNA gene. A total of 5680 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were identified, with Pseudomonadota, Bacillota, and Actinobacteriota being prevalent phyla. Among the bacterial communities, three genera were dominant: Cutibacterium, Staphylococcus, and Acinetobacter. Interestingly, analyses of alpha-diversity (p = 0.3 for Shannon index and p = 0.5 for Simplon index) and beta-diversity (PERMANOVA, with p-values of 0.6 and 0.3) revealed no significant differences between Cuscuta-infected and non-infected jujube shrubs, suggesting a shared shoot endophytic bacteriome. This finding advances our comprehension of microbial communities linked to plant–parasite interactions in the arid environments of Africa. Further research on various hosts is required to confirm plant-to-plant bacterial transmission through Cuscuta infection. Additionally, studies on functional diversity, cytology, ecophysiology and the mechanisms by which bacterial communities transferred between host and parasite are necessary.
The Gut Microbiome of Two Wild Bumble Bee Species Native of South America: Bombus pauloensis and Bombus bellicosus
Authors: Fernandez de Landa Gregorio , Alberoni Daniele , Braglia Chiara , Baffoni Loredana , Fernandez de Landa Mateo , Revainera Pablo Damian , Quintana Silvina , Zumpano Francisco , Maggi Matias Daniel , Di Gioia Diana
Published: September 2024

South America is populated by a wide range of bumble bee species that represent an important source of biodiversity, supporting pollination services in natural and agricultural ecosystems. These pollinators provide unique specific microbial niches, populated by a wide number of microorganisms such as symbionts, environmental opportunistic bacteria, and pathogens. Recently, it was demonstrated how microbial populations are shaped by trophic resources and environmental conditions but also by anthropogenic pressure, which strongly affects microbes’ functionality. This study is focused on the impact of different land uses (natural reserve, agroecosystem, and suburban) on the gut microbiome composition of two South American bumble bees, Bombus pauloensis and Bombus bellicosus. Gut microbial DNA extracted from collected bumble bees was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform and correlated with land use. Nosema ceranae load was analyzed with qPCR and correlated with microbiome data. Significant differences in gut microbiome composition between the two wild bumble bee species were highlighted, with notable variations in α- and β-diversity across study sites. Bombus bellicosus showed a high abundance of Pseudomonas, a genus that includes environmental saprobes, and was found to be the second major taxa populating the gut microbiome, probably indicating the vulnerability of this host to environmental pollution. Pathogen analysis unveils a high prevalence of N. ceranae, with B. bellicosus showing higher susceptibility. Finally, Gilliamella exhibited a negative correlation with N. ceranae, suggesting a potential protective role of this commensal taxon. Our findings underscore the importance of considering microbial dynamics in pollinator conservation strategies, highlighting potential interactions between gut bacteria and pathogens in shaping bumble bee health.
Rhizosphere Engineering of Biocontrol Agents Enriches Soil Microbial Diversity and Effectively Controls Root-Knot Nematodes
Authors: Vinothini K. , Nakkeeran S. , Saranya N. , Jothi P. , Richard J. Infant , Perveen Kahkashan , Bukhari Najat A. , Glick Bernard R. , Sayyed R. Z. , Mastinu Andrea
Published: September 2024

The root-knot nematode (RKN) causes significant yield loss in tomatoes. Understanding the interaction of biocontrol agents (BCAs)-nematicides-soil microbiomes and RKNs is essential for enhancing the efficacy of biocontrol agents and nematicides to curb RKN damage to crops. The present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effectiveness of BACa and nematicide against RKN and to apply the amplicon sequencing to assess the interaction of Bacillus velezensis (VB7) and Trichoderma koningiopsis (TK) against RKNs. Metagenomic analysis revealed the relative abundance of three phyla such as Proteobacteria (42.16%), Firmicutes (19.57%), and Actinobacteria (17.69%) in tomato rhizospheres. Those tomato rhizospheres treated with the combined application of B. velezensis VB7 + T. koningiopsis TK and RKN had a greater frequency of diversity and richness than the control. RKN-infested tomato rhizosphere drenched with bacterial and fungal antagonists had the maximum diversity index of bacterial communities. A strong correlation with a maximum number of interconnection edges in the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria was evident in soils treated with both B. velezensis VB7 and T. koningiopsis TK challenged against RKN in infected soil. The present study determined a much greater diversity of bacterial taxa observed in tomato rhizosphere soils treated with B. velezensis VB7 and T. koningiopsis TK than in untreated soil. It is suggested that the increased diversity and abundance of bacterial communities might be responsible for increased nematicidal properties in tomato plants. Hence, the combined applications of B. velezensis VB7 and T. koningiopsis TK can enhance the nematicidal action to curb RKN infecting tomatoes.
Is radiotherapy still the optimal initial choice for patients with early-stage low-grade follicular lymphoma in the modern era? A population-based study
Authors: Zheng Wenshuai , Wang Shenyu , Liang Yanchao , Ning Hongmei
Published: September 2024

Despite radiotherapy (RT) is recognized as preferred initial therapy for early-stage low-grade follicular lymphoma (FL) by many international practice guidelines, the medical oncologist has improperly underutilized RT, and diverse management strategies, including systemic therapy (ST), combined modality (CM) and watch and wait (WW), are still used. Except survival outcomes, previous studies concerned little about the treatment-related toxicity, which is also important factor in choosing initial management strategy, especially second primary malignancies (SPMs). The aim of this study was to compare the overall survival (OS) and the SPMs risk between different management strategies, which can provide guidance for the choice of optimal initial management strategy. Data was acquired from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Finally, A total 10,900 patients were identified, in which 930 cases developed SPMs. The use of radiotherapy (RT) has remained consistently low, with a utilization rate of around 20%, while most patients have received watchful waiting (WW) and systemic therapy (ST). In the rituximab era, multivariate analysis indicated that RT exhibited significantly superior OS and did not increase SPMs risk in comparison with ST and WW. At the same time, although there were no significant differences in OS between CM and RT, RT had significantly lower SPMs risk in comparison with CM. The use of RT improved the OS and did not increase the SPMs risk in comparison with other management strategies. Considering the low application rate of RT, oncologists should emphasize and increase the use of RT as an initial management strategy in patients with early-stage low-grade FL.