bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized free cumulants for quantum chaotic systems
Authors: Jindal Siddharth , Hosur Pavan
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The eigenstate thermalization hypothesis (ETH) is the leading conjecture for the emergence of statistical mechanics in generic isolated quantum systems and is formulated in terms of the matrix elements of operators. An analog known as the ergodic bipartition (EB) describes entanglement and locality and is formulated in terms of the components of eigenstates. In this paper, we significantly generalize the EB and unify it with the ETH, extending the EB to study higher correlations and systems out of equilibrium. Our main result is a diagrammatic formalism that computes arbitrary correlations between eigenstates and operators based on a recently uncovered connection between the ETH and free probability theory. We refer to the connected components of our diagrams as generalized free cumulants. We apply our formalism in several ways. First, we focus on chaotic eigenstates and establish the so-called subsystem ETH and the Page curve as consequences of our construction. We also improve known calculations for thermal reduced density matrices and comment on an inherently free probabilistic aspect of the replica approach to entanglement entropy previously noticed in a calculation for the Page curve of an evaporating black hole. Next, we turn to chaotic quantum dynamics and demonstrate the ETH as a sufficient mechanism for thermalization, in general. In particular, we show that reduced density matrices relax to their equilibrium form and that systems obey the Page curve at late times. We also demonstrate that the different phases of entanglement growth are encoded in higher correlations of the EB. Lastly, we examine the chaotic structure of eigenstates and operators together and reveal previously overlooked correlations between them. Crucially, these correlations encode butterfly velocities, a well-known dynamical property of interacting quantum systems.
Capacity of entanglement and volume law
Authors: Mohammadi Mozaffar M. Reza
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We investigate various aspects of capacity of entanglement in certain setups whose entanglement entropy becomes extensive and obeys a volume law. In particular, considering geometric decomposition of the Hilbert space, we study this measure both in the vacuum state of a family of non-local scalar theories and also in the squeezed states of a local scalar theory. We also evaluate field space capacity of entanglement between interacting scalar field theories. We present both analytical and numerical evidences for the volume law scaling of this quantity in different setups and discuss how these results are consistent with the behavior of other entanglement measures including Renyi entropies. Our study reveals some generic properties of the capacity of entanglement and the corresponding reduced density matrix in the specific regimes of the parameter space. Finally, by comparing entanglement entropy and capacity of entanglement, we discuss some implications of our results on the existence of consistent holographic duals for the models in question.
Counting Parabolic Principal G-Bundles with Nilpotent Sections Over $$\mathbb {P}^{1}$$
Authors: Singh Rahul
Published: September 2024

Let G be a split connected reductive group over $$\mathbb {F}_q$$

F
q

and let $$\mathbb {P}^1$$

P

1

be the projective line over $$\mathbb {F}_q$$

F
q

. Firstly, we give an explicit formula for the number of $$\mathbb {F}_{q}$$

F
q

-rational points of generalized Steinberg varieties of G. Secondly, for each principal G-bundle over $$\mathbb {P}^1$$

P

1

, we give an explicit formula counting the number of triples consisting of parabolic structures at 0 and $$\infty $$
∞
and a compatible nilpotent section of the associated adjoint bundle. In the case of $$GL_{n}$$

G

L
n

we calculate a generating function of such volumes re-deriving a result of Mellit.
Operative versus non-operative treatment of ulnar styloid process base fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van Rossenberg L. X. , Beeres F. J. P. , van Heijl M. , Hug U. , Groenwold R. H. H. , Houwert R. M. , van de Wall B. J. M. ,   The NEXT Study Group
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Ulnar styloid process (USP) fractures are present in 40–65% of all distal radius fractures (DRFs). USP base fractures can be associated with distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and ulnar sided wrist pain and are treated by conservative management and surgical fixation, without consensus. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares operative to non-operative treatment of concomitant ulnar styloid base fractures in patients with distal radius fractures.

Methods

PubMed/Medline/Embase/CENTRAL databases were searched identifying RCTs and comparative observational studies. Effect estimates were extracted and pooled using random effect models to account for heterogeneity across studies. Results were presented as (standardized) mean differences (SMD or MD) or odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

Results

Two RCTs (161 patients) and three observational studies (175 patients) were included. Tension band wiring was used for surgically treated USP fractures. Results were comparable across the different study designs and hence pooled across studies. Non-surgically treated patients had better wrist function at 6 months (SMD 0.57, 95%CI 0.30; 0.90, I2 = 0%). After 12 months there was no observed difference (MD 2.31, 95%CI −2.57; 7.19, I2 = 91%). Fewer patients had USP non-unions in the operative group (OR 0.08, 95%CI 0.04; 0.18, I2 = 0%). More patients suffered complications in the operative group (OR 14.3; 95%CI 1.08; 188, I2 = 89%).

Conclusion

Routinely fixating USP base fractures as standard of care is not indicated. Surgery may be considered in selective cases (e.g. persistent DRUJ instability during ballottement test after fixation of the radius).
Genetic evidence for efficacy of targeting IL-2, IL-6 and TYK2 signalling in the prevention of type 1 diabetes: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Heikkilä Tea E. , Kaiser Emilia K. , Lin Jake , Gill Dipender , Koskenniemi Jaakko J. , Karhunen Ville
Published: September 2024

Aims/hypothesis

We aimed to investigate the genetic evidence that supports the repurposing of drugs already licensed or in clinical phases of development for prevention of type 1 diabetes.

Methods

We obtained genome-wide association study summary statistics for the risk of type 1 diabetes, whole-blood gene expression and serum protein levels and investigated genetic polymorphisms near seven potential drug target genes. We used co-localisation to examine whether the same genetic variants that are associated with type 1 diabetes risk were also associated with the relevant drug target genetic proxies and used Mendelian randomisation to evaluate the direction and magnitude of the associations. Furthermore, we performed Mendelian randomisation analysis restricted to functional variants within the drug target genes.

Results

Co-localisation revealed that the blood expression levels of IL2RA (encoding IL-2 receptor subunit α [IL2RA]), IL6R (encoding IL-6 receptor [IL6R]) and IL6ST (encoding IL-6 cytokine family signal transducer [IL6ST]) shared the same causal variant with type 1 diabetes liability near the corresponding genes (posterior probabilities 100%, 96.5% and 97.0%, respectively). The OR (95% CI) of type 1 diabetes per 1-SD increase in the genetically proxied gene expression of IL2RA, IL6R and IL6ST were 0.22 (0.17, 0.27), 1.98 (1.48, 2.65) and 1.90 (1.45, 2.48), respectively. Using missense variants, genetically proxied TYK2 (encoding tyrosine kinase 2) expression levels were associated with type 1 diabetes risk (OR 0.61 [95% CI 0.54, 0.69]).

Conclusions/interpretation

Our findings support the targeting of IL-2, IL-6 and TYK2 signalling in prevention of type 1 diabetes.

Data availability

The analysis code is available at https://github.com/jkoskenniemi/T1DSCREEN, which also includes instructions on how to download the original GWAS summary statistics.

Graphical Abstract
Bridging the gap between GRACE and GRACE Follow-On by combining high–low satellite-to-satellite tracking data and satellite laser ranging
Authors: Weigelt Matthias , Jäggi Adrian , Meyer Ulrich , Arnold Daniel , Mayer-Gürr Torsten , Öhlinger Felix , Sośnica Krzysztof , Ebadi Sahar , Schön Steffen , Steffen Holger
Published: September 2024

The satellite missions GRACE and GRACE Follow-On have undoubtedly been the most important sources to observe mass transport on global scales. Within the Combination Service for Time-Variable Gravity Fields (COST-G), gravity field solutions from various processing centers are being combined to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and further increase the spatial resolution. The time series of monthly gravity field solutions suffer from a data gap of about one year between the two missions GRACE and GRACE Follow-On among several smaller data gaps. We present an intermediate technique bridging the gap between the two missions allowing (1) for a continued and uninterrupted time series of mass observations and (2) to compare, cross-validate and link the two time series. We focus on the combination of high-low satellite-to-satellite tracking (HL-SST) of low-Earth orbiting satellites by GPS in combination with satellite laser ranging (SLR), where SLR contributes to the very low degrees and HL-SST is able to provide the higher spatial resolution at an lower overall precision compared to GRACE-like solutions. We present a complete series covering the period from 2003 to 2022 filling the gaps of GRACE and between the missions. The achieved spatial resolution is approximately 700 km at a monthly temporal resolutions throughout the time period of interest. For the purpose of demonstrating possible applications, we estimate the low degree glacial isostatic adjustment signal in Fennoscandia and North America. In both cases, the location, the signal strength and extend of the signal coincide well with GRACE/GRACE-FO solutions achieving 99.5% and 86.5% correlation, respectively.
Existence and Stability of Nonmonotone Hydraulic Shocks for the Saint Venant Equations of Inclined Thin-Film Flow
Authors: Faye Grégory , Rodrigues L. Miguel , Yang Zhao , Zumbrun Kevin
Published: September 2024

Extending the work of Yang–Zumbrun for the hydrodynamically stable case of Froude number $$F<2$$

F
<
2

, we categorize completely the existence and convective stability of hydraulic shock profiles of the Saint Venant equations of inclined thin film flow. Moreover, we confirm by numerical experiment that asymptotic dynamics for general Riemann data is given in the hydrodynamic instability regime by either stable hydraulic shock waves, or a pattern consisting of an invading roll wave front separated by a finite terminating Lax shock from a constant state at plus infinity. Notably, profiles, and existence and stability diagrams, are all rigorously obtained by mathematical analysis and explicit calculation.
Development, validation, and clinical assessment of a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry serum assay for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) recommended by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM)
Authors: Dui Wen , Smith Michael P. , Bartock Sarah H.
Published: September 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in industry, residential, and consumer products. Studies have shown associations between high PFAS exposure and adverse health effects. In 2022, the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) published Guidance on PFAS Exposure, Testing, and Clinical Follow-up providing laboratory and clinical direction. The Guidance suggests nine PFAS should be measured in serum or plasma specimens and summed to provide a total PFAS concentration using a NASEM-recommended method. Follow-up clinical recommendations are based on the calculated PFAS NASEM summation. We developed and validated a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method in accordance with NASEM recommendations but distinguished by the ability to separate closely related structural isomers. As part of our validation, PFAS prevalence was evaluated in a population survey comprised of clinical donor and remnant specimens (n = 1023 in total). In this study, 82.2% of the specimens had PFAS NASEM summations of 2 to < 20 ng/mL and 2.5% had a summation ≥ 20 ng/mL. The median PFAS NASEM summation was 4.65 ng/mL in this study, lower than the 7.74 ng/mL median observed in the 2017–2020 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 3072). This lower median PFAS NASEM summation may reflect a decline in PFAS population levels over time or sample population exposure differences.

Graphical Abstract
Genomic and molecular alterations associated with primary resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Malhotra Jyoti , De Subhajyoti , Nguyen Kim , Lee Percy , Villaflor Victoria
Published: September 2024

The clinical response to immune checkpoint inhibitors may vary by tumor type and many tumors present with either primary or acquired resistance to immunotherapy. Improved understanding of the molecular and immunologic mechanisms underlying immunotherapy resistance is essential for developing biomarkers and for guiding the optimum approach to selecting treatment regimens and sequencing. This is increasingly important for tumors with primary resistance as effective biomarkers in this setting can guide clinicians about appropriate treatment regimen selection in the first-line setting. Multiple potential biological mechanisms of primary resistance have been proposed but most are yet to be validated in prospective clinical cohorts. Individual biomarkers have poor specificity and sensitivity, and the development of validated and integrated predictive models may guide which patient will benefit from monotherapy versus combination therapy. In this review, we discuss the emerging data identifying the molecular mechanisms of primary resistance to immunotherapy and explore potential therapeutic strategies to target these.
Cut-off values of Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index for cardiovascular events in Japanese patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Ito Satoshi , Inoue Yasunori , Nagoshi Tomohisa , Aizawa Takatoku , Kashiwagi Yusuke , Morimoto Satoshi , Ogawa Kazuo , Minai Kosuke , Ogawa Takayuki , Yoshimura Michihiro
Published: September 2024

The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is a straightforward nutritional risk assessment tool with an established relationship with poor prognosis in patients with heart failure. However, the utility of the GNRI in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains unclear given the time-dependent changes in the pathophysiology of AMI and the selected endpoints. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the optimal cut-off values of the GNRI for cardiovascular events in patients with AMI. We used time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analysis to identify the optimal cut-off values for two endpoints, all-cause death and major adverse cardiac events (MACE: all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, hospitalization for heart failure, and stroke), over 4 years in 360 patients with AMI between 2012 and 2020. The cumulative incidence of MACE was 11.6%. The cut-off value of the GNRI for all-cause death was 82.7 (area under the curve [AUC], 0.834) at 3 months and 90.3 (AUC 0.854) at 4 years. The cut-off value of the GNRI for MACE was 83.0 (AUC 0.841) at 3 months and 95.3 (AUC 0.821) at 4 years. The GNRI demonstrated consistently high reliability relative to other indicators of AMI. Our findings indicated that the optimal cut-off value and reliability of the GNRI for cardiovascular events varied according to the endpoints and observation periods. GNRI emerges as a crucial predictor of prognosis for patients with AMI.
Effect of inverse kinematic alignment total knee arthroplasty on coronal alignment of the ankle joint in patients with varus knee deformity
Authors: shichman Ittai , Hallak Amer , Ashkenazi Itay , Warschwaski Yaniv , Gold Aviram , Snir Nimrod
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Varus or valgus knee deformities influence ankle coronal alignments. The impact of Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) on ankle joint alignment has not been entirely illustrated. Inverse Kinematic Alignment (iKA) is a surgical philosophy that aims to restore soft tissue balance, function, and native anatomy within validated boundaries to restore restrictive native kinematics. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the postoperative association of patient-specific alignment on the coronal alignment of the ankle in patients with varus knee deformity who underwent iKA TKA. We hypothesized that greater preoperative varus malalignments would correlate with significant postoperative ankle coronal alignment changes.

Methods

This retrospective study of a prospective collected cohort assessed patients who underwent imageless navigation assisted robotic TKA using a single implant design for primary osteoarthritis between January 2022 and August 2023. Preoperative and postoperative full-length standing anteroposterior X-ray imaging was used to measure Hip-Knee-Ankle (HKA), Tibial Plafond Inclination (TPI), Talar inclination (TI), and Tibiotalar Tilt (TTT) angles. Patients were subsequently divided into groups of neutral varus) < 10°) and severe varus (≥ 10°) according to the preoperative HKA angle.

Results

Significant changes in preoperative and postoperative HKA angles were found in the severe varus (14.5° vs. 6.4°, p < 0.001) group. Changes were also significant between preoperative and postoperative TPI and TI angles in the severe varus group; however, TTT did not reach statistical significance. Delta change from pre- to postoperative HKA was significantly higher for the severe varus group (8.1° vs. 0.8°, p < 0.019). Delta change of TPI, TI and TTT did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Coronal knee alignment after TKA affects coronal alignment of the ankle. iKA technique in TKA for varus knee deformity preserves or minimizes substantial coronal alignment changes of the ankle joint. These findings may add to the benefits reported for patient specific alignment TKA techniques.

Level of evidence

III.
Interpretation of molecular autopsy findings in 45 sudden unexplained death cases: from coding region to untranslated region
Authors: Wang Shouyu , Du Jianghua , Shen Qi , Haas Cordula , Neubauer Jacqueline
Published: September 2024

Sudden unexplained death (SUD) can affect apparently healthy adolescents and young adults with no prior clinical symptoms and no clear diagnostic findings at autopsy. Although primary cardiac arrhythmias have been shown to be the direct cause of death in the majority of SUD cases, the genetic predisposition contributing to SUD remains incompletely understood. Currently, molecular autopsy is considered to be an effective diagnostic tool in the multidisciplinary management of SUD, but the analysis focuses mainly on the coding region and the significance of many identified variants remains unclear. Recent studies have demonstrated the strong association between human disease and genetic variants in untranslated regions (UTRs), highlighting the potential role of UTR variants in the genetic predisposition to SUD. In this study, we searched for UTR variants with likely functional effects in the exome data of 45 SUD cases. Among 244 genes associated with cardiac diseases, three candidate variants with high confidence of pathogenicity were identified in the UTRs of SCO2, CALM2 and TBX3 based on a rigorous filtering strategy. A functional assay further validated the effect of these candidate variants on gene transcriptional activity. In addition, the constraint metrics, intolerance indexes, and dosage sensitivity scores of genes affected by the candidate variants were considered when estimating the consequence of aberrant gene expression. In conclusion, our study presents a practical strategy for UTR variant prioritization and functional annotation, which could improve the interpretation of molecular autopsy findings in SUD cohorts.
Characterization of intestine-specific TRPM6 knockout C57BL/6 J mice: effects of short-term omeprazole treatment
Authors: Adella Anastasia , Gommers Lisanne M. M. , Bos Caro , Leermakers Pieter A. , de Baaij Jeroen H. F. , Hoenderop Joost G. J.
Published: September 2024

The transient receptor potential melastatin type 6 (TRPM6) is a divalent cation channel pivotal for gatekeeping Mg2+ balance. Disturbance in Mg2+ balance has been associated with the chronic use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole. In this study, we investigated if TRPM6 plays a role in mediating the effects of short-term (4 days) omeprazole treatment on intestinal Mg2+ malabsorption using intestine-specific TRPM6 knockout (Vill1-TRPM6−/−) mice. To do this, forty-eight adult male C57BL/6 J mice (50% TRPM6fl/fl and 50% Vill1-TRPM6−/−) were characterized, and the distal colon of these mice was subjected to RNA sequencing. Moreover, these mice were exposed to 20 mg/kg bodyweight omeprazole or placebo for 4 days. Vill1-TRPM6−/− mice had a significantly lower 25Mg2+ absorption compared to control TRPM6fl/fl mice, accompanied by lower Mg2+ serum levels, and urinary Mg2+ excretion. Furthermore, renal Slc41a3, Trpm6, and Trpm7 gene expressions were higher in these animals, indicating a compensatory mechanism via the kidney. RNA sequencing of the distal colon revealed a downregulation of the Mn2+ transporter Slc30a10. However, no changes in Mn2+ serum, urine, and feces levels were observed. Moreover, 4 days omeprazole treatment did not affect Mg2+ homeostasis as no changes in serum 25Mg2+ and total Mg2+ were seen. In conclusion, we demonstrate here for the first time that Vill1-TRPM6−/− mice have a lower Mg2+ absorption in the intestines. Moreover, short-term omeprazole treatment does not alter Mg2+ absorption in both Vill1-TRPM6−/− and TRPM6fl/fl mice. This suggests that TRPM6-mediated Mg2+ absorption in the intestines is not affected by short-term PPI administration.
Cleansing efficacy of an oral irrigator with microburst technology in adolescent orthodontic patients. A randomized-controlled crossover study
Authors: Gänzer Hanna , Kasslatter Manuel , Wiesmüller Vera , Denk Lena , Sigwart Anna-Maria , Crismani Adriano
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Simplifying interdental space cleaning is a constantly discussed topic. The present study aimed to compare the cleansing efficacy of an oral irrigator with that of dental flossing in adolescent patients with fixed braces after four weeks of home-use.

Materials and methods

The study design is a randomized, single-blinded cross-over study. Following a twenty-eight-day period of product utilization in a home setting, a comparative analysis was conducted on hygiene indices, the Rustogi Modified Navy Plaque Index (RMNPI) and the Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), between the test group (oral irrigator) and the control group (dental floss).

Results

Seventeen adolescent individuals completed the study. After 28 days of cleaning with the oral irrigator, RMNPI was 58.81% (55.31–66.47) compared to 59.46% (52.68–68.67) with dental floss (p = 0.070). Subgroup analyses did not indicate the superiority of either method. GBI after the test phase with the oral irrigator was 28.93% (23.21–33.97) and insignificantly higher compared to 26.40% (21.01–31.41) achieved with dental floss (p = 0.1585).

Conclusions

Neither of the two products demonstrated statistically significant superiority in terms of cleaning efficacy. Therefore, no recommendation can be made in favor of one over the other. It was found that the high initial hygiene indices for fixed orthodontic appliances could be improved through increased awareness and precise instruction.

Clinical relevance

For adolescent patients who struggle to use interdental brushes an oral irrigator may be suggested as a simple alternative in hard-to-reach areas, such as those around a fixed dental appliance.
Characterization of the GLONASS-K1+ atomic frequency standard
Authors: Steigenberger P. , Montenbruck O.
Published: September 2024

The fifth GLONASS-K1 satellite with space vehicle number R807 was launched in October 2022. It represents the first spacecraft of the K1+ generation, which offers various technical innovations. Compared to previous K1 satellites, R807 also transmits a code-division multiple access (CDMA) signal in the L2 frequency band in addition to L1 and L2 frequency-division multiple access (FDMA) and L3 CDMA signals. Thus, R807 is the first spacecraft of the K1+ generation. A geometry- and ionosphere-free triple carrier combination is used to analyze the GLONASS R807 clock consistency at different frequencies. Significant inconsistencies were found showing up as variations with a peak-to-peak amplitude of up to 40 cm and periods between 15 min and a few days. Whereas the ultimate explanation for these variations is not known, it is likely that they originate from cross-talk of two oscillators with similar frequency. A short-term clock analysis for integration times up to 100 s based on the one-way carrier phase (OWCP) method shows a superior stability of the R807 clock compared to all other GLONASS satellites including the new K2 generation. The Allan deviation computed from 5 s clock estimates confirms this finding for integration times up to 600 s but shows a significant bump at longer integration times due to the periodic variations mentioned above. Single-frequency OWCP processing confirms consistency of the L1 and L2 FDMA signals whereas the L3 CDMA signal shows a slight phase shift. Although the spurious variations mask the true performance of the K1+ atomic frequency standard, its behavior at short integration times points at a new type of GLONASS satellite clock.
Patient involvement in patient safety measures: the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors – a scoping review
Authors: Monaca Clara , Weigl Matthias , Pfaff Holger , Hammer Antje
Published: September 2024

Aim

In the field of healthcare, the paramount concern is the safety of patients. Demographic and socioeconomic factors that can influence patient safety are often overlooked in the context of clinical protocols, which receive considerable attention. The objective of this review was to examine the relationship between demographic and socioeconomic variables and their impact on patient involvement in safety measures.

Subject and methods

This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The literature search was conducted in the APA PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PSYNDEX, PubMed, and Web of Science Core Collection databases from 1970 to 2023. The titles and abstracts of the identified studies were first screened, followed by a review of relevant full texts to extract information on demographic and socioeconomic factors, patient involvement, and patient safety.

Results

A total of 17 articles were selected and subjected to analysis from the initial 278 studies. The findings of this study indicate that the patient involvement and safety in healthcare are substantially influenced by demographic and socioeconomic factors. It was observed that there were differences in patient communication, perception of medical errors, and willingness to actively participate in healthcare.

Conclusion

As healthcare providers and policymakers strive to enhance patient safety and care quality, it is crucial to acknowledge and consider the various factors that have been studied. In the future, it will be important to prioritize personalized and culturally sensitive approaches to ensure equitable access to safe and effective medical treatment for all individuals, regardless of their demographic or social background.
Covering the permutohedron by affine hyperplanes
Authors: Hegedüs G. , Károlyi GY.
Published: September 2024

An almost cover of a finite set in the affine space is a collection
of hyperplanes that together cover all points of the set except one. Using the
polynomial method, we determine the minimum size of an almost cover of the
vertex set of the permutohedron and address a few related questions.
Facet separation for disjunctive constraints with network flow representation
Authors: Dobrovoczki Péter , Kis Tamás
Published: September 2024

We present a novel algorithm for separating facet-inducing inequalities for the convex-hull of the union of polytopes representing a disjunctive constraint of special structure. It is required that the union of polytopes admit a certain network flow representation. The algorithm is based on a new, graph theoretic characterization of the facets of the convex-hull. Moreover, we characterize the family of polytopes that are representable by the networks under consideration. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by computational results on a set of benchmark problems.
Plotting: a case study in lifted planning with constraints
Authors: Espasa Joan , Miguel Ian , Nightingale Peter , Salamon András Z. , Villaret Mateu
Published: September 2024

We study a planning problem based on Plotting, a tile-matching puzzle video game published by Taito in 1989. The objective of this turn-based game is to remove a target number of coloured blocks from a grid by sequentially shooting blocks into the same grid. Plotting features complex transitions after every shot: various blocks are affected directly, while others can be indirectly affected by gravity. We consider modelling and solving Plotting from two perspectives. The puzzle is naturally cast as an AI Planning problem and we first discuss modelling the problem using the Planning Domain Definition Language (PDDL). We find that a model in which planning actions correspond to player actions is inefficient with a grounding-based state-of-the-art planner. However, with a more fine-grained action model, where each change of a block is a planning action, solving performance is dramatically improved. We also describe two lifted constraint models, able to capture the inherent complexities of Plotting and enabling the application of efficient solving approaches from SAT and CP. Our empirical results with these models demonstrates that they can compete with, and often exceed, the performance of the dedicated planning solvers, suggesting that the richer languages available to constraint modelling can be of benefit when considering planning problems with complex changes of state. CP and SAT solvers solved almost all of the largest and most challenging instances within 1 hour, whereas the best planning approach solved approximately 30%. Finally, the flexibility provided by the constraint models allows us to easily curate interesting levels for human players.
Comparing learning geometry using a tablet to head-mounted display augmented reality: How and when dimensionality matters
Authors: Walkington Candace , Nathan Mitchell J. , Washington Julianna , Hunnicutt Jonathan , Darwin Taylor , Daughrity LeaAnne , Schenck Kelsey
Published: September 2024

Augmented Reality (AR) technologies allow for holograms to be layered over the real-world, “augmenting” human vision by adding technical information or illustrations onto 3D space. Although AR-based applications are showing positive effects in many systematic reviews and meta-analyses, well-designed, rigorous studies with strong control conditions are lacking. Further, many experimental studies lack process data to illuminate what is happening as students engage with AR. In this pre-registered study, we conducted an experiment where n = 120 high school students were assigned to reason about identical geometry simulations collaboratively either using tablets or AR head‐mounted displays (HMDs). We look at their learning and how it was impacted by the dimensionality (2D or 3D) of the shapes they explored, as well as how they engaged with virtual objects using gestures and epistemic actions. AR HMDs were more effective for students getting an initial sense of 3D shapes, but less effective for 2D shapes. For gaining insights into the workings of shapes and formulating justifications of conjectures, we see no evidence AR is more effective, and trends indicating AR may be detrimental to eliciting generalizations. Further, process data showed that students using tablets are more likely to manipulate the geometric shapes in the simulations, while students using the AR HMDs are more likely to use dynamic gestures that simulate these manipulations, which are less constrained by the objects’ actual properties. Implications for the future design and use of AR in education are given.
Nanoparticle uptake by a semi-permeable, spherical cell from an external planar diffusive field. II. Numerical study of temporal and spatial development validated using FEM
Authors: Kumar Sandeep Santhosh , Miklavcic Stanley J.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we present a mathematical study of particle diffusion inside and outside a spherical biological cell that has been exposed on one side to a propagating planar diffusive front. The media inside and outside the spherical cell are differentiated by their respective diffusion constants. A closed form, large-time, asymptotic solution is derived by the combined means of Laplace transform, separation of variables, and asymptotic series development. The solution process is assisted by means of an effective far-field boundary condition, which is instrumental in resolving the conflict of planar and spherical geometries. The focus of the paper is on a numerical comparison to determine the accuracy of the asymptotic solution relative to a fully numerical solution obtained using the finite element method. The asymptotic solution is shown to be highly effective in capturing the dynamic behaviour of the system, both internal and external to the cell, under a range of diffusive conditions.
Erosion of surfaces by trapped vortices
Authors: Hirst Courteney , McDonald N. R.
Published: September 2024

Two two-dimensional free boundary problems describing the erosion of solid surfaces by the flow of inviscid fluid in the presence of trapped vortices are considered. The first problem tackles an initially flat, infinite fluid-solid interface with uniform flow at infinity and a vortex in equilibrium above the surface. The second involves flow around a finite body with a trailing Föppl-type vortex pair. The conformal invariance of the complex potential permits both problems to be formulated as a Polubarinova–Galin (PG) type equation in which the time-dependent eroding surface in the physical z-plane is mapped to the fixed boundary of the $$\zeta $$
ζ
-disk. The Hamiltonian governing the equilibrium position of the vortex (or vortex pair in the second problem) is also found from the same map. In each problem, the PG equation giving the conformal map is found numerically and the time-dependent evolution of the interface and vortex location is determined. Different models governing the erosion of the interface are investigated in which the normal velocity of the boundary depends on some given function of the fluid flow velocity at the boundary. Typically, in the infinite surface case, erosion leads to the formation of a symmetric valley beneath the vortex which, in turn, moves downward toward the interface. A finite body undergoes erosion which is asymmetric in the flow direction leading to a flattening of the lee surface of the body so displaying some similarity to the experiments and associated viscous theory of Ristroph et al, Moore et al (Proc Natl Acad Sci 109(48):19606–19609, 2012, Phys Fluids 25(11):116602, 2013).
Redistribution vs. Recognition: How Brexit Split the Left
Authors: Dinsmore Adam
Published: September 2024

Brexit is typically seen as a canonical example of right-wing populism, yet a third of those who voted for left-of-centre parties at the 2015 UK General Election also supported Brexit one year later. This bloc of 5 million people was around four times the size of the Leave campaign’s margin of victory. This article constructs the first discursive analysis of leftist Brexit support. Drawing on qualitative interviews with twenty-three left-identifying residents of the ‘Red Wall’ region of England, I examine continuities between leftist identities and pro-Brexit discourse. Participants consistently constructed their political identities from ideas that broadly corresponded to Fraser’s folk paradigms of social justice ‘redistribution’ and ‘recognition’. Relations between the paradigms were more complex—and more antagonistic—in participant accounts than Fraser’s ‘distinct but equivalent’ ideal. Three discursive logics promoted leftist Brexit support by (i) counterposing redistribution of wealth against the ‘neoliberal’ European Union, while associating Brexit itself with notions of (ii) ‘underdog spirit’ and (iii) ‘unity’. Each logic shared affinities with the redistribution paradigm, and were often expressed alongside antagonism toward recognition. I conclude that Brexit split the left by exploiting pre-existing tensions between the left’s constituent parts. Leftist Brexit support was thus a partial epiphenomenon of the contemporary left’s dual form. A shift away from Fraser’s ‘perspectival dualism’ may constrain further Brexit-style splits.
Improved SERS activity of TiN microstructures by surface modification with Au
Authors: Michałowska Aleksandra , Szymańska Aleksandra , Ambroziak Robert , Nozka Libor , Vaclavek Lukas , Tomastik Jan , Turczyniak-Surdacka Sylwia , Krajczewski Jan
Published: September 2024

Over the years, numerous outstanding research groups around the world have been working tirelessly on metallic SERS substrates. Although these efforts have led to the development of various sensors and pushed the field forward, today this line of research seems saturated and exhausted. In this work, we address this issue by exploring an emerging topic in recent literature: the fabrication of high-performance TiN SERS-active structures. TiN thin film was sputtered onto pyramidal Si microstructures. Spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements confirmed the plasmonic properties of the TiN material above its plasma wavelength of 515 nm. The Si-TiN surface was subsequently modified with an Au layer, which was then transformed into Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) during the Rapid Thermal Annealing process. The Si-TiN-AuNPs samples exhibited the highest extinction intensity, as well as the best SERS signal intensity for the model Raman reporter molecule. Further analysis of the SERS data showed that the presence of the Au thin film only moderately increased SERS activity, while Au NPs enhanced the SERS signal by one order of magnitude. Final Si-TiN-AuNPs platforms were successfully employed for the detection of vitamin B12, demonstrating a low limit of detection (8.57•10–8 M) along with excellent point-to-point repeatability.

Graphical abstract
Assessing the Relationship between Hospital Process Digitalization and Hospital Quality – Evidence from Germany
Authors: Vogel Justus , Haering Alexander , Kuklinski David , Geissler Alexander
Published: September 2024

Hospital digitalization aims to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and/ or improve quality of care. To assess a digitalization-quality relationship, we investigate the association between process digitalization and process and outcome quality. We use data from the German DigitalRadar (DR) project from 2021 and combine these data with two process (preoperative waiting time for osteosynthesis and hip replacement surgery after femur fracture, n = 516 and 574) and two outcome quality indicators (mortality ratio of patients hospitalized for outpatient-acquired pneumonia, n = 1,074; ratio of new decubitus cases, n = 1,519). For each indicator, we run a univariate and a multivariate regression. We measure process digitalization holistically by specifying three models with different explanatory variables: (1) the total DR-score (0 (not digitalized) to 100 (fully digitalized)), (2) the sum of DR-score sub-dimensions’ scores logically associated with an indicator, and (3) sub-dimensions’ separate scores. For the process quality indicators, all but one of the associations are insignificant. A greater DR-score is weakly associated with a lower mortality ratio of pneumonia patients (p < 0.10 in the multivariate regression). In contrast, higher process digitalization is significantly associated with a higher ratio of decubitus cases (p < 0.01 for models (1) and (2), p < 0.05 for two sub-dimensions in model (3)). Regarding decubitus, our finding might be due to better diagnosis, documentation, and reporting of decubitus cases due to digitalization rather than worse quality. Insignificant and inconclusive results might be due to the indicators’ inability to reflect quality variation and digitalization effects between hospitals. For future research, we recommend investigating within hospital effects with longitudinal data.
Fault imaging using earthquake sequences: a revised seismotectonic model for the Albstadt Shear Zone, Southwest Germany
Authors: Mader Sarah , Ritter Joachim R. R. , Brüstle Andrea ,   AlpArray Working Group
Published: September 2024

In Germany, the highest seismic hazard is associated with the Albstadt Shear Zone (ASZ) in the western Swabian Jura, a low mountain range in southwest Germany. The region is affected by continuous micro-seismic activity with the potential for damaging earthquakes (nine events with ML$$\ge $$
≥
5 in the 20$$^{th}$$

th

century). Within the AlpArray and StressTransfer projects nine temporary seismic stations have been installed in the region of the ASZ to densify the permanent seismic monitoring. In October 2018 and September 2019, the state seismological survey (LED) detected two low-magnitude earthquake sequences with hundreds of events in the area. The temporarily densified local network allows us to systematically analyze these sequences and to search for other sequences by applying a template-matching routine on data from 2018 to 2020. In total, six earthquake sequences could be identified with at least 10 events. The four largest sequences (> 50 events) consist of two fore- and aftershock sequence and two earthquake swarms. Earthquake swarms were so far not observed around the ASZ. Precise relative hypocenter relocations and the determination of fault-plane solutions allow us to propose a seismotectonic model based on the three imaged fault types: (a) The well-known NNE-SSW striking sinistral strike-slip ASZ at depths of 5-10 km, (b) a NW-SE striking dextral strike-slip fault zone at depths of 11-15 km beneath the Hohenzollerngraben (HZG), a shallow, apparently aseismic NW-SE striking graben structure; this NW-SE fault zone possibly is an inherited zone of weakness in the basement and facilitated the development of the HZG and (c) at the intersection of the ASZ with the NW-SE fault zone, complex faulting in form of NNW-SSE striking sinistral strike-slip and normal faulting possibly to accommodate local stresses.
Assessment of chromatography separation parameters in the quality control of copper-64-labeled neurotensin-like peptides
Authors: Tudoroiu-Cornoiu Maria-Roxana , Chilug Elena Livia , Cocioabă Diana , Băruţă Simona , Şerban Radu , Ion Alina Catrinel , Niculae Dana
Published: September 2024

In recent years, research on the Cu-64 effects on malignant tumours has increased, leading to the development of radiopharmaceuticals with higher selectivity, aiming to target tumour cells while preserving healthy body cells. This work aims to assess the quality of two DOTA-derivatized neuropeptides, NMN and NT (8-13) radiolabelled with Cu-64. An improved analytical radio-HPLC method was developed to evaluate the radiochemical purity and stability. The radiochemical purity is > 99.95% for both 64Cu-DOTA-NMN and 64Cu-DOTA-NT (8-13), the radiolabelled molecules being stable for 72 h after synthesis.
Study of thin film composites based on LiCoO2 and C60 using neutron depth profiling and atomic force microscopy
Authors: Ceccio Giovanni , Vacik Jiri , Lavrentiev Vasyl , Tomandl Ivo , Miksova Romana , Takahashi Kazumasa
Published: September 2024

In this work, two thin hybrid composites based on organic-like fullerenes (bucky balls C60) and inorganic compounds of lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) were prepared. The composites were synthesized by a combined method of ion sputtering and evaporation. The prepared samples were sandwiched between 2 gold electrodes and subjected to charging at an applied small voltage. After each charging process, the samples were analyzed using two appropriate methods—the surface morphology was monitored using AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), and lithium depth concentration profiles were measured using NDP (Neutron Depth Profiling). The results of the measurements showed that both types of composite experienced significant changes both in the surface morphology and especially in the depth distribution of lithium. The test confirmed the expectation that the unusual hybrid combination of organic and inorganic phases is electrochemically active and exhibits characteristics of Li battery behavior.
Hybrid organic-inorganic gels that are melting gels
Authors: Klein L. C. , Jitianu Andrei
Published: September 2024

Ever since the observation in 2001 that some organic-inorganic silica hybrid gels are rigid at room temperature but soften and flow around 100 °C, there has been interest in so-called melting gels. Following heating to 150 °C or higher, the gels no longer soften and are considered consolidated hybrid glasses. The catalog of melting gels has grown over the past 20 years. Longer chain substitutions and other functional groups have been attached to the ≡Si-O-Si≡ molecular species. The substitutions make it possible to adjust the glass transition, the viscosity, and the temperature range of their usefulness.

Graphical Abstract
Advancing the science of marketing
Authors: M. Allenby Greg
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the significant contributions of the 2024 AMA Converse Award recipient Dr. Greg M. Allenby, as presented at the Converse Symposium held at the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois, at Urbana-Champaign. Highlighting the dual emphasis on theory and practice, the paper underscores Dr. Allenby’s pivotal role in advancing Bayesian statistical methods within marketing, thereby shaping modern marketing research methodologies. His work encompasses a broad spectrum of research, including choice modeling, heterogeneous response analysis, decision theory, and the integration of text data into marketing models. The paper also reflects on Dr. Allenby’s academic journey, professional achievements, and his influential role in national marketing and statistical organizations. Additionally, the paper discusses the historical context and ongoing evolution of the Converse Award, emphasizing its importance in recognizing and fostering innovation and leadership in the field of marketing.
A new four-tier technique for efficient multiple images encryption
Authors: Hosny Khalid M. , Kamal Sara T.
Published: September 2024

People transmit millions of digital images daily over various networks, where securing these images is a big challenge. Image encryption is a successful approach widely used in securing digital images while transmitting. Researchers developed different encryption techniques that focus on securing individual images. Recently, encryption of multiple images has gained more interest as an emerging encryption approach. In this paper, we proposed a four-tier technique for multiple image encryption (MIE) to increase the transmission speed and improve digital image security. First, we attached the plain images to create an augmented image. Second, the randomized augmented image is obtained by randomly changing the position of each plain image. Third, we scrambled the randomized augmented image using the zigzag pattern, rotation, and random permutation between blocks. Finally, we diffuse the scrambled augmented image using an Altered Sine-logistic-based Tent map (ASLT). We draw a flowchart, write a pseudo-code, and present an illustrative example to simplify the proposed method and make it easy to understand. Many experiments were performed to evaluate this Four-Tier technique, and the results show that this technique is extremely effective and secure to withstand various attacks.