bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variational formulation and monolithic solution of computational homogenization methods
Authors: Hesch Christian , Schmidt Felix , Schuß Stefan
Published: July 2024

In this contribution, we derive a consistent variational formulation for computational homogenization methods and show that traditional FE and IGA approaches are special discretization and solution techniques of this most general framework. This allows us to enhance dramatically the numerical analysis as well as the solution of the arising algebraic system. In particular, we expand the dimension of the continuous system, discretize the higher dimensional problem consistently and apply afterwards a discrete null‐space matrix to remove the additional dimensions. A benchmark problem, for which we can obtain an analytical solution, demonstrates the superiority of the chosen approach aiming to reduce the immense computational costs of traditional FE and IGA formulations to a fraction of the original requirements. Finally, we demonstrate a further reduction of the computational costs for the solution of general nonlinear problems.
Enhanced classification of microplastic polymers (polyethylene, polystyrene, low‐density polyethylene, polyhydroxyalkanoate) in waterbodies
Authors: Thavasimuthu Rajendran , Vidhya P. M. , Sridhar S. , Sasirekha S. P. , Sherubha P.
Published: July 2024

The contamination of microplastics (MPs) creates a substantial risk to both the environment and human health, necessitating the development of efficient methods for detecting and categorizing these micro pollutant particles. As a solution, Dense‐UNet with Convolutional Vision Transformer (Dense‐UNet‐CvT), a novel deep learning (DL)‐based model is proposed to detect and classify the MPs by performing the computer vision tasks. The main objective of this work is to enhance the detection accuracy in detecting the MPs classified from the input images. Initially, a holographic MPs image dataset comprising primary classes such as polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is collected for training and evaluating the research model. The images from the dataset are preprocessed by performing image resizing, Recursive Exposure based Sub‐Image Histogram Equalization (RESIHE)‐based image enhancement, Gaussian Adaptive Bilateral Filtering (GABF)‐based denoising to improve the visual quality of the images. The preprocessed images are applied for segmentation using the Dense‐UNet model for performing semantic segmentation. The CvT model is implemented to extract useful features and to perform classification on detecting the known and unknown classes of MPs labeled in the collected dataset. The MPs detection and classification performances are computed in terms of detection rate, accuracy, f1‐score, and precision. The Dense‐UNet‐CvT model achieved 98.22% detection rate, 98.59% accuracy, 98.35% f1‐score, and 98.76% precision. These performances are compared with the current models for proper validation, in which the research model outperformed all the compared models in terms of performance. Overall, the proposed Dense‐UNet‐CvT model demonstrates superior performance across multiple evaluation metrics, suggesting its effectiveness in detecting and classifying MPs contamination in holographic images.
Healthcare utilization disparities among children with high‐risk neuroblastoma treated on Children's Oncology Group clinical trials
Authors: Shoag Jamie , Li Yimei , Getz Kelly D. , Huang Yuan‐Shung , Hall Matt , Naranjo Arlene , Richardson Troy , Desai Ami V. , Umaretiya Puja J. , Aziz‐Bose Rahela , Kelly Colleen A. , Zheng Daniel J. , Newman Haley , Zahler Stacey , Aplenc Richard , Bagatell Rochelle , Bona Kira
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Disparities in relapse and survival from high‐risk neuroblastoma (HRNBL) persist among children from historically marginalized groups even in highly standardized clinical trial settings. Research in other cancers has identified differential treatment toxicity as one potential underlying mechanism. Whether racial and ethnic disparities in treatment‐associated toxicity exist in HRNBL is poorly understood.

Methods

This is a retrospective study utilizing a previously assembled merged cohort of children with HRNBL on Children's Oncology Group (COG) post‐consolidation immunotherapy trials ANBL0032 and ANBL0931 at Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) centers from 2005 to 2014. Race and ethnicity were categorized to reflect historically marginalized populations as Hispanic, non‐Hispanic Black (NHB), non‐Hispanic other (NHO), and non‐Hispanic White (NHW). Associations between race‐ethnicity and intensive care unit (ICU)‐level care utilization as a proxy for treatment‐associated toxicity were examined with log binomial regression and summarized as risk ratio (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The analytic cohort included 370 children. Overall, 88 (23.8%) patients required ICU‐level care for a median of 3.0 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.0–6.5 days). Hispanic children had nearly three times the risk of ICU‐level care (RR 3.1, 95% CI: 2.1–4.5; fully adjusted RR [aRR] 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6–3.7) compared to NHW children and the highest percentage of children requiring cardiovascular‐driven ICU‐level care.

Conclusion

Children of Hispanic ethnicity with HRNBL receiving clinical trial‐delivered therapy were more likely to experience ICU‐level care compared to NHW children. These data suggest that further investigation of treatment‐related toxicity as a modifiable mechanism underlying outcome disparities is warranted.
Valorization of waste Ti6Al4V chips for epoxy composite production: A circular economy approach
Authors: Teke Erdoğan , Alyamaç‐Seydibeyoğlu Elif , Mocan Merve , Seydibeyoğlu M. Özgür
Published: July 2024

With increasing awareness of the circular economy, utilizing waste materials from titanium alloys for polymer composites offers numerous advantages. In this study, medical‐grade titanium alloy, Ti6Al4V chips were finely ground and mixed with epoxy resin to produce particulate‐reinforced composites. The tensile strength showed a 32% improvement compared to the neat epoxy. Similar results were observed for the flexural test, showing a 36% improvement in the composites. Moreover, a substantial 96% increase in thermal conductivity was observed, significantly expanding the potential application areas for the epoxy‐based composites. These improvements were achieved without the use of superfine nanoparticles or other expensive additives. This underscores the potential of a circular approach in the materials world, offering many new opportunities while promoting sustainability.

Highlights

Circular utilization of titanium powders in polymer composites.

Demonstrated effectiveness of titanium milling in composite production.

Production of low‐cost, affordable composites suitable for diverse applications.

Remarkable thermal conductivity values.

Attainment of finely tuned mechanical properties.
Anisotropic polymer components with desired elastic properties manufactured through fused filament fabrication additive manufacturing
Authors: Bagheri Bami Alireza , Honarvar Farhang , Teimouri Reza
Published: July 2024

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a popular additive manufacturing (AM) process, primarily used for fabricating polymer components. Optimizing the mechanical properties of FFF components, such as their elastic moduli, is crucial in many applications. This study focuses on adjusting the elastic properties of polymer components manufactured through FFF process by selecting appropriate process parameters. The elastic constants of the anisotropic FFF components are measured by using ultrasonic testing (UT). Response surface methodology (RSM) is employed to determine the optimal settings for these parameters to achieve the desired elastic properties. The effects of layer thickness, printing speed, and raster angle on Young's modulus are explored. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to identify the contributions of each process factor on the output responses. According to ANOVA results, the optimal conditions identified are: a printing speed of 2040 mm/min, a layer thickness of 0.2 mm, and a raster angle of 29°. These conditions collectively achieved the maximum Young's modulus. The differences between the predicted and measured moduli for all responses are less than 5%. The structural factors influencing the results are examined by analyzing the fracture surfaces of the tensile testing (TT) specimens with field emission scanning electron microscopy. Additional measurements of other properties, including ultrasound velocity and wave attenuation, are conducted on the samples. The findings indicate that optimizing the parameters by setting them to their minimum values does not only improve the maximum elastic modulus in specific directions but also reduces attenuation. It is concluded that the desired elastic modulus for a component can be achieved by properly adjusting the process parameters.

Highlights

Optimizing AM parameters to achieve the desired elastic properties of FFF samples.

Examining the effects of each AM parameter by utilizing ANOVA and RSM methods.

Measuring the anisotropic elastic properties of AM samples by UT.

Verifying UT results through TT and measuring attenuation.
Cytochrome P450CYP81A104 in Eleusine indica confers resistance to multiherbicide with different modes of action
Authors: Yao Sai , Yin Hanqi , Li Yang , Yang Qian , Yuan Shuzhong , Deng Wei
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Developing herbicide‐resistant (HR) crop cultivars is an efficient way to control weeds and minimize crop yield losses. However, widespread and long‐term herbicide application has led to the evolution of resistant weeds. Here, we established a resistant (R) E. indica population, collected from imidazolinone‐resistant rice cultivar fields.

RESULTS

The R population evolved 4.5‐fold resistance to imazamox. Acetolactate synthase (ALS) gene sequencing and ALS activity assays excluded the effect of target‐site resistance in this population. P450 inhibitor malathion pretreatment significantly reversed resistance to imazamox. RNA sequencing showed that a P450 gene CYP81A104 was expressed higher in R versus susceptible (S) plants. Arabidopsis overexpressing CYP81A104 showed resistance to ALS inhibitors (imazamox, tribenuron‐methyl, penoxsulam and flucarbazone‐sodium), PSII inhibitor (bentazone), hydroxyphenyl pyruvate dioxygenase inhibitor (mesotrione) and auxin mimics (MCPA), which was generally consistent with the results presented in the R population.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed that the CYP81A104 gene endowed resistance to multiherbicides with different modes‐of‐action. Our findings provide an insight into the molecular characteristics of resistance and contribute to formulating an appropriate strategy for weed management in HR crops. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Studies of Structural, Optical, and Raman Analysis of Ni‐Substituted CoFe2O4
Authors: Sarita  , Anchal  , Priya  , Choudhary Shobha Ram , Rulaniya Mahendra Singh , Kumar Arvind , Dolia Satya Narain , Alvi Parvez Ahmad , Choudhary Banwari Lal
Published: July 2024

The polycrystalline ferrite samples of NixCo1−xFe2O4 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 0.9) are synthesized through the well‐known sol–gel method. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirms the cubic single‐phase spinel structure. Rietveld refinement indicates the absence of any other impurity phases in the samples. Additionally, XRD analysis reveals variations in lattice parameters corresponding to the doping. The Debye Scherer formula has been used to calculate the crystallite size of the samples, the crystallite size of the samples existing in the nanoregime. The results from field emission scanning electron microscopy confirm the morphological structure of the prepared samples. Additionally, the energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra confirm the elemental composition and purity of the synthesized samples, validating the appropriateness of doping in the polycrystalline samples. The Raman spectra give the information about the vibrational modes in the sample. The Fourier transform infrared rays spectrum shows that the samples have a broad range of chemical interactions. The photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) suggests strong luminescence in the visible range. PL spectroscopy provides that PL intensity decreases with increasing excitation wavelength due to nanosize of the particle.
Robust Electrothermal Switching of Optical Phase‐Change Materials through Computer‐Aided Adaptive Pulse Optimization
Authors: Garud Parth , Aryana Kiumars , Popescu Cosmin Constantin , Vitale Steven , Sharma Rashi , Richardson Kathleen A. , Gu Tian , Hu Juejun , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: July 2024

Electrically tunable optical devices present diverse functionalities for manipulating electromagnetic waves by leveraging elements capable of reversibly switching between different optical states. This adaptability in adjusting their responses to electromagnetic waves after fabrication is crucial for developing more efficient and compact optical systems for a broad range of applications, including sensing, imaging, telecommunications, and data storage. Chalcogenide‐based phase‐change materials (PCMs) have shown great promise due to their stable, nonvolatile phase transition between amorphous and crystalline states. Nonetheless, optimizing the switching parameters of PCM devices and maintaining their stable operation over thousands of cycles with minimal variation can be challenging. Herein, the critical role of PCM pattern as well as electrical pulse form in achieving reliable and stable switching is reported on, extending the operational lifetime of the device beyond 13000 switching events. To achieve this, a computer‐aided algorithm that monitors optical changes in the device and adjusts the applied voltage in accordance with the phase transformation process is developed, thereby significantly enhancing the lifetime of these reconfigurable devices. The findings reveal that patterned PCM structures show significantly higher endurance compared to blanket PCM thin films.
Making an Influence: Sponsorship and Creolization on Social Media
Authors: McLean Cheryl A.
Published: July 2024

The growing presence and impact of predominantly female online influencers suggests the proliferation of a cultural phenomenon that characterizes the social aspects of our digital lives. Working with the notion of gender and maker literacies, this paper shines light on newer forms of making practices by looking at influencer cultures of five popular online social media platforms. Situating the research in a Caribbean context, this paper examines the “influencer culture” by looking at the platformized literacy practices of four Caribbean female influencers and using the concepts of literacy sponsorship and creolization as lenses through which to view the interrelationships and accompanying practices between the influencers and their local and global followers. The paper argues that social media platforms are strategically curated digital‐maker spaces that influencers use to shift and change literacy practices and perspectives related to gender, language, and culture. Findings from this qualitative study suggest that these influencers' sponsorship of creolized literacies is reflected in their power to enact social change and transformation through advocacy, consciousness, and community‐building. The paper concludes by considering the potential for such social actors and their digital‐making practices to influence our contemporary global sociocultural and educational landscapes.
Looking Through Earth: Archaeo-Geophysics and Soil Science in the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Băț Mihail , Munteanu Octavian , Vasilache Mariana
Published: July 2024

The research carried out by co-opting the natural sciences opens a special perspective on studying the archaeological sites. In the Republic of Moldova, several legislative and normative acts currently regulates the use of the soil sciences and the non-invasive methods in archaeology. The beginning of geophysical investigations dates back to the 70s and 80s of the last centuries, and the prehistoric sites of Cucuteni-Trypillia culture have been researched at first. After a pause that lasted until the end of the first decade of the new millennium, the involvement of magnetometer surveys, in the activity of archaeologists in Moldova took on a new dimension. Currently, about 40 Neo-Eneolithic sites can be studied based on magnetometer survey data maps. Some of the images obtained are truly spectacular, such as, for example, those of Stolniceni or Petreni, which provide a clear picture of the internal organisation of the settlements, the types and dimensions of the archaeological structures, but more importantly, opening new opportunities for the development of targeted research strategies. Along with the Neo-Eneolithic sites, the sites from the Iron Age and those from the Roman Imperial era also aroused the interest of archaeologists. The Getic fortifications, whose defensive systems began to be understood in all their complexity, caught special attention. We should also mention the interest shown by the researchers of the Middle Ages, who, being at the beginning of the path, managed to open new perspectives for the study of medieval cities and fortresses. At the same time, in all types of sites, regardless of the periods to which they refer, the experiences of soil scientists who come to offer new perspectives in interdisciplinary research, such as the determination of element concentrations of archaeological deposit for assessing past activity areas, are also increasingly used. In other words, even if we still have a lot to achieve in this field, the direction and increasing rhythms through which soil analysis and geophysical methods are embraced by archaeologists, makes us look optimistically at the future of research in the Republic of Moldova.
Back to the Roots. Ablest Prospection Techniques for Rediscovering the Chalcolithic Settlement of Cucuteni—Cetățuie, Romania: A Short Retrospective, Novel Recent Data, Prospects for the Future
Authors: Asăndulesei Andrei , Tencariu Felix Adrian , Mirea Dragoș Alexandru , Pîrnău Radu Gabriel , Balaur Radu Ștefan
Published: July 2024

In this chapter we discuss the important contribution of non-invasive surveys, along with minimally invasive pedological analyses, in the evaluation, re-evaluation and rigorous documentation of buried archaeological heritage. We propose also an overview of the research background, especially by discussing some key moments in promoting these interdisciplinary methods and techniques in Romanian archaeology. Therefore, we consider a review of the contributions to geophysical research, as well as the main initiatives in the field of pedological studies applied to archaeological contexts. The aim is to highlight the indisputable need for such initiatives in a modest national historiographical landscape.

In support of our approach, we have chosen to focus on one of the most well-known and publicised prehistoric archaeological monuments in Romania, the eponymous site of the Chalcolithic Cucuteni Culture (toponym Cetățuie). The site has benefited from special attention over time, but still with multiple questions without an answer.

138 years from its discovery and over 50 years from the latest archaeological research, the site is still surprising. Previous research, reflected in dozens of articles, studies and monographs and considered quasi-completed, is, as the latest investigations prove, away from an outcome. Older observations suggested the existence of a prolongation of habitation or satellite settlements near the known settlement on the Cetățuie promontory, but suppositions were not confirmed by previous research. Recent magnetometer surveys and pedological investigations have revealed that the Cucuteni settlement has expanded considerably at a time, with a few tens of highly fired dwellings arranged on rows, with accessways between them, enclosed by other ditches. The new information radically changes the conception over the planimetry and the dynamics of habitation on Cetățuie, opening the way for a large project on the research of this famous settlement, in the context of the European Chalcolithic.
Geophysical Survey in Support of Archaeological Rescue Excavations at Industrial Area of Kremenchuk Magnetic Anomaly in Ukraine
Authors: Bondar Kseniia M. , Bashkatov Yurii Yu. , Khomenko Ruslan V. , Didenko Serhii V. , Tsiupa Iryna V. , Popov Serhii A.
Published: July 2024

This study represents results of first archaeo-geophysical prospection at the area of Kremenchuk Magnetic Anomaly (Poltava region, Ukraine). Pre-excavation magnetometer survey, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) measurements were performed on archaeological sites which are planned to be destroyed in near future due to development of iron ore quarries and construction of mine sites. Investigated archaeological monuments comprise settlements and burial mounds—kurgans—dated to Bronze and Early Iron Age occupying relatively high terrains in the floodplain of the Dnieper River. Based on prospection results of 18 sites and excavation of 6 ones, we evaluate the advantages and limitations of geophysical methods in confirming conclusions of visual archaeological inspection and targeting subsequent archaeological work. The recognised restrictions for geophysical methods are caused by high-gradient geomagnetic field, airborne magnetic pollution of soils and variable subsoil substrate—loess and sands. The magnetometer survey revealed an anomaly related to the remains of a large mound (the Bondari kurgan) against a background of high-gradient geomagnetic field. Large depression near the kurgan suggested its dating to the Bronze Age proved by subsequent archaeological excavations. The magnetic topsoil masks weak anomalies related to subsurface archaeological features and produces bright plough effects visible on the results of the magnetometer surveys. This is why, no anomalies sourced by mound of kurgan were recognised using this geophysical technique at the east from Gorishn’oplavnivskyi quarry. However, circular ditches and collapsed catacomb burials proved to cause detectable disturbance in the magnetic field. GPR measurements aided to identify the real diameter of kurgans by tracing the reflection associated with the mound-submound interface at sandy soil area. ERT results helped to clarify the structure of the large Novoselivska Mohyla kurgan. Two stages of construction were suggested from the two interpreted mounds of different resistivity. Smaller high resistivity anomalies are associated to primary and inserted burials. Magnetic anomalies caused by dwellings were found on the Bronze Age settlements as well as magnetic trace of shallow feature that was not identified during the archaeological excavations. The obtained results aid a proper understanding of the appearance of archaeo-geophysical anomalies and facilitate applying geophysical methods for archaeological needs in the region.
A Review on the Development and Current Role of Ground-Based Geophysical Methods for Archaeological Prospection in Scandinavia
Authors: Stamnes Arne Anderson , Cuenca-García Carmen , Gustavsen Lars , Horsley Tim , Jónasson Ómar Valur , Koivisto Satu , Kristiansen Søren Munch , Perttola Wesa , Schneidhofer Petra , Stott David , Tonning Christer , Traustadóttir Ragnheiður , Trinks Immo , Viberg Andreas , Westergaard Bengt
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides an extensive overview of the use of geophysics in archaeological research and cultural heritage management in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland. It discusses the current status, role and acceptance of geophysical methods in each country, and outlines the state-of-the-art based on a synthesis of existing knowledge and experience. The authors consider the past, present and future of archaeo-geophysics in the individual regions, taking into account the academic, curatorial and commercial aspects of their use. This, in turn, serves as the basis for a discussion of the reasons for the varying degrees of acceptance and integration of the methods in each country, and aid the distribution of knowledge and experience gained across Scandinavia and beyond. The practical experience, application and general acceptance are not similar in the different Scandinavian countries. There is a general lack of integrating geophysical (and by extension non-intrusive methods) within the archaeological practice and guidelines. The case studies presented here show a range of archaeological applications of geophysics in Scandinavia, demonstrating how geophysical methods should by no means be considered “new” or “untested”. While there is a need for targeted research, there has also been a challenge in disseminating the already generated knowledge and experiences to other actors within the archaeological community. Some of this can be explained by a lack of trained personnel, domestic competence and archaeological institutions undertaking research into the applicability of geophysical methods, and data-sharing and making reports accessible.
Variety in Archaeo-Geophysics: The French Example
Authors: Thiesson Julien , Benech Christophe , Camerlynck Christian , Dabas Michel , Hulin Guillaume , Mathé Vivien , Petit Christophe , Simon François Xavier , Vitale Quentin
Published: July 2024

As a result of a long history in both archaeology and geophysics, France exhibits a wide panel of practices in archaeo-geophysics, going from archaeologists using geophysics as a supplementary tool for understanding their sites to applied geophysicists using archaeological sites as better constrained features and potential ground feedback. This chapter tries to scan this variety in the practices which overlap with a variety of contexts. After a brief overview of the backgrounds which control the practices in France, we show several examples that illustrate this diversity. Firstly, we will show a set of surveys of rural areas coming from both public and private institutions. Secondly, we will present how archaeological sites in urban areas are assessed with the geophysical techniques. Thirdly, we will address what can be done in what we define as the “specific” context. In each context, we will highlight how geophysical techniques could improve itselves with the help of archaeological sites took as the place for an intensive interdisciplinary research. We conclude that archaeology can be a way to make geosciences progress by bringing together geology, soil science, geotechnics, geochemistry, and geophysics.
Safety, Security and Service Quality for Automated Minibuses: State of the Art, Technical Requirements and Data Privacy in Case of Incident
Authors: Chrétien Philippe , Lalas Antonios , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios
Published: July 2024

The AVENUE project confirmed that the automated minibus technology is attractive to improve urban mobility services with contribution to the ecologic transition but at risk in terms of safety and service quality. Maintaining the public transportation level of injuries, based on heavy bus experience, is challenging and implies (i) an intermediate target for market introduction, gathering active safety and passive safety requirements, and (ii) an improvement process, based on anonymised and shared lesson learnt, under public power control. With resulting demands concerning reliability and maintainability, the safety improvement will contribute to the service quality and to the building of a sustainable business.
In-Vehicle Services to Improve the User Experience and Security when Traveling with Automated Minibuses
Authors: Tsiktsiris Dimitrios , Vafeiadis Anastasios , Lalas Antonios , Dasygenis Minas , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Zinckernagel Christian , Salvi Kevin
Published: July 2024

This chapter looks at the innovative development and deployment of in-vehicle services to improve both the user experience and safety in automated minibuses, a critical component of future mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) ecosystems. With the rise of driverless public transport, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers becomes a primary concern. The chapter discusses the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning technologies to address these challenges, focusing on services such as enhanced safety and confidence, automated passenger presence monitoring, and intelligent feedback systems. It outlines the AVENUE project’s initiatives to create an AI-powered framework that not only promotes the widespread adoption of automated minibuses but also addresses social and personal safety concerns in the absence of a human driver. The services discussed aim to replace the driver’s monitoring and interaction functions with technology-enabled solutions, thereby maintaining service quality and promoting passenger confidence. Using real-world deployments and pilot studies, the chapter illustrates how these technological interventions contribute to the overall efficiency, safety, and acceptance of automated vehicles in urban environments and provide valuable insights into the future of automated public transport systems.
The electromagnetic form factors of heavy-light pseudo-scalar and vector mesons
Authors: Xu Yin-Zhen
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We systematically investigate the electromagnetic form factors of heavy-light pseudo-scalar and vector mesons within the Dyson-Schwinger/Bethe-Salpeter equations framework for the first time. It is found that the charge radius of vector meson is larger than that of its pseudo-scalar counterpart. In heavy-light systems, the flavor symmetry breaking will lead to a splitting of the form factor of different quark, and the distribution range of lighter and heavier quark gradually expands and contracts, respectively. The competition between them together generates the electromagnetic form factors of meson. Our results can be compared with other theoretical calculations and future experimental data.
Cosmological singularities, holographic complexity and entanglement
Authors: Narayan K. , Saini Hitesh K. , Yadav Gopal
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study holographic volume complexity for various families of holographic cosmologies with Kasner-like singularities, in particular with AdS, hyperscaling violating and Lifshitz asymptotics. We find through extensive numerical studies that the complexity surface always bends in the direction away from the singularity and transitions from spacelike near the boundary to lightlike in the interior. As the boundary anchoring time slice approaches the singularity, the transition to lightlike is more rapid, with the spacelike part shrinking. The complexity functional has vanishing contributions from the lightlike region so in the vicinity of the singularity, complexity is vanishingly small, indicating a dual Kasner state of vanishingly low complexity, suggesting an extreme thinning of the effective degrees of freedom dual to the near singularity region. We also develop further previous studies on extremal surfaces for holographic entanglement entropy, and find that in the IR limit they reveal similar behaviour as complexity.
Painlevé Kernels and Surface Defects at Strong Coupling
Authors: François Matijn , Grassi Alba
Published: July 2024

It is well established that the spectral analysis of canonically quantized four-dimensional Seiberg–Witten curves can be systematically studied via the Nekrasov–Shatashvili functions. In this paper, we explore another aspect of the relation between $${\mathcal {N}}=2$$

N
=
2

supersymmetric gauge theories in four dimensions and operator theory. Specifically, we study an example of an integral operator associated with Painlevé equations and whose spectral traces are related to correlation functions of the 2d Ising model. This operator does not correspond to a canonically quantized Seiberg–Witten curve, but its kernel can nevertheless be interpreted as the density matrix of an ideal Fermi gas. Adopting the approach of Tracy and Widom, we provide an explicit expression for its eigenfunctions via an $${{\,\mathrm{O(2)}\,}}$$

O
(
2
)

matrix model. We then show that these eigenfunctions are computed by surface defects in $${{\,\mathrm{SU(2)}\,}}$$

SU
(
2
)

super Yang–Mills in the self-dual phase of the $$\Omega $$
Ω
-background. Our result also yields a strong coupling expression for such defects which resums the instanton expansion. Even though we focus on one concrete example, we expect these results to hold for a larger class of operators arising in the context of isomonodromic deformation equations.
Net versus relative impacts in public policy automation: a conjoint analysis of attitudes of Black Americans
Authors: Kennedy Ryan , Austin Amanda , Adams Michael , Robinson Carroll , Salib Peter
Published: July 2024

The use of algorithms and automated systems, especially those leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), has been exploding in the public sector, but their use has been controversial. Ethicists, public advocates, and legal scholars have debated whether biases in AI systems should bar their use or if the potential net benefits, especially toward traditionally disadvantaged groups, justify even greater expansion. While this debate has become voluminous, no scholars of which we are aware have conducted experiments with the groups affected by these policies about how they view the trade-offs. We conduct a set of two conjoint experiments with a high-quality sample of 973 Americans who identify as Black or African American in which we randomize the levels of inter-group disparity in outcomes and the net effect on such adverse outcomes in two highly controversial contexts: pre-trial detention and traffic camera ticketing. The results suggest that respondents are willing to tolerate some level of disparity in outcomes in exchange for certain net improvements for their community. These results turn this debate from an abstract ethical argument into an evaluation of political feasibility and policy design based on empirics.
Establishing Host–Virus Link Through Host Metabolism: Viral DNA SIP Validation Using T4 Bacteriophage and E. coli
Authors: Ngo Vuong Quoc Hoang , Sotomski Maximilien , Guenne Angeline , Mariadassou Mahendra , Krupovic Mart , Enault François , Bize Ariane
Published: July 2024

DNA Stable Isotope Probing is emerging as a potent methodology for investigating host–virus interactions, based on the essential reliance of viruses on host organisms for the production of virions. Despite the anticipated link between host isotopic compositions and the generated virions, the application of stable isotope probing to viral DNA has never been evaluated on simple biological models. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of this method on the bacteriophage T4 and its host, Escherichia coli. Through the cultivation of E. coli cells on a 13C-enriched substrate and subsequent propagation of T4 bacteriophage, we examine the degree of isotopic enrichment in viral DNA. Our investigation reveals a strong correlation between the proportion of 13C6-d-glucose in the growth substrate and the buoyant density in CsCl gradient of T4 DNA, confirming the validity of DNA SIP in viral ecology. These findings underscore the potential of DNA SIP as a robust tool for characterizing the diversity of viruses infecting hosts with specific metabolic activities and provide then a foundation for further exploration in viral ecology research.
Development of Rapid Disk Diffusion Device Using Laser Speckle Formation Technology for Rapid Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Authors: Lee Jaehyeon , Lee Jun Han , Cho Kyoungman , Park Jeong Su
Published: July 2024

The escalation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the excessive and inappropriate use of antimicrobials has prompted the urgent need for more rapid and effective antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) methods. Conventional AST techniques often take 16–24 h, leading to empirical prescription practices and the potential emergence of AMR. The study aimed to develop a rapid disk diffusion (RDD) method utilizing laser speckle formation (LSF) technology to expedite AST results. The study aimed to evaluate the performance of LSF technology in determining antimicrobial susceptibility. In this study, preclinical and clinical settings were established to compare the LSF technology with conventional disk diffusion (DD) methods to measure the inhibition zones. Preclinical experiments with different bacterial strains demonstrated more than 70% categorical agreement (CA) against most antimicrobials. Further, clinical experiments with multiple strains and antibiotics revealed CA ranging from 40 to 79%, while major and minor discrepancies were observed around 30% and 11%, respectively. These observations revealed high concordance between RDD and DD for multiple antimicrobials in multiple species. The results underscore the potential of RDD-based LSF technology for hastening AST procedures. The current study is marked by a unique equipment setup and analysis approach. Collectively, the suggested laser-based RDD showed greater potential than previously developed comparable methods. The proposed method and design have a higher application potential than formerly developed similar technologies. Together, the study contributes to the ongoing development of rapid AST methods.
Differences of clinical phenotype between familial and sporadic Crohn’s disease in East China
Authors: Dong Siyuan , Xiang Xiaoxia , Zhang Yu , Liu Rongbei , Ye Lingna , Cao Qian
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Family history is one of the strongest risk factors for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) while studies about the clinical phenotype of familial IBD are limited. This study aimed to compare the phenotypic features of familial Crohn’s disease (CD) with sporadic CD.

Methods

Familial CD was defined as CD patients having one or more first, second, third, fourth degree, or above relatives with CD. Sporadic CD patients hospitalized during the same period were matched 1:3 by age and gender. Differences in clinical characteristics, phenotype distribution, extraintestinal manifestations, and complications at diagnosis, as well as treatment regimen and surgery, were compared between familial and sporadic CD.

Results

The familial CD was associated with a higher rate of past appendectomy history (P = 0.009), more intestinal perforation at onset (P = 0.012), more MRI results of anal lesion (P = 0.023), and gastrointestinal perforation (P = 0.040) at diagnosis, higher rate of past intestinal surgery history (P = 0.007), more number of intestinal surgeries (P = 0.037), longer duration of follow-up (P = 0.017), lower rate of taking biologicals for current maintenance (P = 0.043), lower tendency to upgrade to biologicals during follow-up (P = 0.013), higher possibility to experience gastrointestinal obstruction (P = 0.047), and abdominal abscess during follow-up (P = 0.045).

Conclusion

Familial CD is associated with a more aggressive clinical phenotype.
Microstructural characterization of multiple sclerosis lesion phenotypes using multiparametric longitudinal analysis
Authors: Ravano Veronica , Andelova Michaela , Piredda Gian Franco , Sommer Stefan , Caneschi Samuele , Roccaro Lucia , Krasensky Jan , Kudrna Matej , Uher Tomas , Corredor-Jerez Ricardo A. , Disselhorst Jonathan A. , Maréchal Bénédicte , Hilbert Tom , Thiran Jean-Philippe , Richiardi Jonas , Horakova Dana , Vaneckova Manuela , Kober Tobias
Published: July 2024

Background and objectives

In multiple sclerosis (MS), slowly expanding lesions were shown to be associated with worse disability and prognosis. Their timely detection from cross-sectional data at early disease stages could be clinically relevant to inform treatment planning. Here, we propose to use multiparametric, quantitative MRI to allow a better cross-sectional characterization of lesions with different longitudinal phenotypes.

Methods

We analysed T1 and T2 relaxometry maps from a longitudinal cohort of MS patients. Lesions were classified as enlarging, shrinking, new or stable based on their longitudinal volumetric change using a newly developed automated technique. Voxelwise deviations were computed as z-scores by comparing individual patient data to T1, T2 and T2/T1 normative values from healthy subjects. We studied the distribution of microstructural properties inside lesions and within perilesional tissue.

Results and conclusions

Stable lesions exhibited the highest T1 and T2 z-scores in lesion tissue, while the lowest values were observed for new lesions. Shrinking lesions presented the highest T1 z-scores in the first perilesional ring while enlarging lesions showed the highest T2 z-scores in the same region. Finally, a classification model was trained to predict the longitudinal lesion type based on microstructural metrics and feature importance was assessed. Z-scores estimated in lesion and perilesional tissue from T1, T2 and T2/T1 quantitative maps carry discriminative and complementary information to classify longitudinal lesion phenotypes, hence suggesting that multiparametric MRI approaches are essential for a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying disease activity in MS lesions.
Epiploic steal: is this concept the key to reducing colorectal anastomotic leak rates?
Authors: Sarofim Mina
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Ensuring optimal colonic perfusion is a critical step in every colorectal anastomosis. The aim of this study is to describe the concept of epiploic steal.

Methods

A literature review was performed to identify studies evaluating anastomotic blood supply. The fundamental principle of epiploic steal is outlined.

Results

Epiploic steal has not been previously evaluated in the literature, and likely has a negative effect on colonic blood supply. Resection of colonic epiploicae may improve perfusion at the distal most lengths of a mobilised colonic conduit where the anastomosis requires it.

Conclusion

This novel concept has the potential to change practice and reduce colorectal anastomotic leak rates. Further clinical studies are required.
Data-driven exploratory method investigation on the effect of dyslexia education at brain connectivity in Turkish children: a preliminary study
Authors: Gengeç Benli Şerife , İçer Semra , Demirci Esra , Karaman Zehra Filiz , Ak Zeynep , Acer İrem , Sağır Gizem Rüveyda , Aker Ebru , Sertkaya Büşra
Published: July 2024

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin and is characterized by reading and/or spelling problems affecting the development of language-related skills. The aim of this study is to reveal functional markers based on dyslexia by examining the functions of brain regions in resting state and reading tasks and to analyze the effects of special education given during the treatment process of dyslexia. A total of 43 children, aged between 7 and 12, whose native language was Turkish, participated in the study in three groups including those diagnosed with dyslexia for the first time, those receiving special education for dyslexia, and healthy children. Independent component analysis method was employed to analyze functional connectivity variations among three groups both at rest and during the continuous reading task. A whole-brain scanning during task fulfillment and resting states revealed that there were significant differences in the regions including lateral visual, default mode, left frontoparietal, ventral attention, orbitofrontal and lateral motor network. Our results revealed the necessity of adding motor coordination exercises to the training of dyslexic participants and showed that training led to functional connectivity in some brain regions similar to the healthy group. Additionally, our findings confirmed that impulsivity is associated with motor coordination and visuality, and that the dyslexic group has weaknesses in brain connectivity related to these conditions. According to our preliminary results, the differences obtained between children with dyslexia, group of dyslexia with special education and healthy children has revealed the effect of education on brain functions as well as enabling a comprehensive examination of dyslexia.
Targeting CD73 limits tumor progression and enhances anti-tumor activity of anti-PD-1 therapy in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Bao-Ye , Zhang Dai , Gan Wei , Wu Jing-Fang , Wang Zhu-Tao , Sun Guo-Qiang , Zhou Jian , Fan Jia , Yi Yong , Hu Bo , Zhang Bo-Heng , Qiu Shuang-Jian
Published: July 2024

Background & aims

Patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) respond poorly to immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs). In this study, we aimed to dissect the potential mechanisms underlying poor response to ICBs and explore a rational ICB-based combination therapy in iCCA.

Methods

scRNA-seq dataset GSE151530 was analyzed to investigate the differentially expressed genes in malignant cells following ICBs therapy. RNA-seq analysis and western blot assays were performed to examine the upstream and downstream signaling pathways of CD73. Subcutaneous tumor xenograft models were utilized to investigate the impact of CD73 on iCCA growth. Plasmid AKT/NICD-induced spontaneous murine iCCAs were used to explore the therapeutic efficacy of CD73 enzymatic inhibitor AB680 combined with PD-1 blockade. Time-of-flight mass cytometry (CyTOF) was conducted to identify the tumor-infiltrating immune cell populations and their functional changes in murine iCCAs treated with AB680 in combination with PD-1 antibody.

Results

scRNA-seq analysis identified elevated CD73 expression in malignant cells in response to ICBs therapy. Mechanistically, ICBs therapy upregulated CD73 expression in malignant cells via TNF-α/NF-κB signaling pathway. In vivo studies revealed that CD73 inhibition suppressed the growth of subcutaneous tumors, and achieved synergistic depression effects with gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC). Adenosine produced by CD73 activates AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling axis in iCCA cells. CD73 inhibitor AB680 potentiates anti-tumor efficacy of PD-1 antibody in murine iCCAs. CyTOF analysis showed that AB680 combined with anti-PD-1 therapy promoted the infiltration of CD8+ T, CD4+ T cells, and NK cells in murine iCCAs, while simultaneously decreased the proportions of macrophages and neutrophils. Moreover, AB680 combined with anti-PD-1 significantly upregulated the expression of Granzyme B, Tbet and co-stimulatory molecule ICOS in infiltrating CD8+ T cells.

Conclusions

CD73 inhibitor AB680 limits tumor progression and potentiates therapeutic efficacy of GC chemotherapy or anti-PD-1 treatment in iCCA. AB680 combined with anti-PD-1 therapy effectively elicits anti-tumor immune response.