bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Unsteady Shock-Boundary Layer Interaction in a Compressor Cascade—Part I: Measurements With Time-Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Klinner Joachim , Lopez Edwin J. Munoz , Hergt Alexander , Willert Christian E.
Published: December 2024

In the first part of this three-paper-series, time-resolved particle image velocimetry (TR-PIV) is performed in the transonic cascade to elucidate the shock-boundary layer interaction process and to provide comparative data for numerical studies and analysis in Parts II and III. The application of modern high-speed camera technology combined with a dual-pulse high-speed laser system enabled TR-PIV in the cascade for image areas covering ∼30% of the chord and ∼6% of the blade pitch at sampling intervals of 0.18 convective time units (CTUs) for the acquisition of multiple time sequences with duration of ∼2000 CTUs. The sampling rate is sufficient to resolve fluctuations of the separating region and accompanying movements of the shock system. To enable correlations between density variations of the shock system and velocity data, shadowgraphs are acquired synchronously with TR-PIV recordings at the same sampling rate. The TR-PIV and shadowgraph measurement setups, the image processing, and the resulting spatial resolutions are described in this part. An analysis of power spectral densities along near-wall rows in PIV data reveals the chord-wise spatial distribution of specific peaks and bands, which are also visible in the shock buffet spectrum. A spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD) of TR-PIV data is conducted to enable inspection of spatiotemporal modes of velocity fluctuations at specific broad peaks and tones in the buffet frequency range. Results indicate that upstream of the main shock, oblique shock waves occur at higher order harmonics of the fundamental buffet frequency and at specific high-frequency tones. The upstream propagation of disturbances beyond the excursion range of the main shock is demonstrated for the dominant buffet frequency as well as for the high-frequency tone and its first harmonic using cross-correlation maps. To locate possible sources of distinct tones at the entrance of the center passage, a SPOD of high-speed schlieren recordings is performed, capturing the shock systems in three passages. The results show that with these high-frequency tones, opposing vibrations of bow and lip shocks occur for neighboring blades.
Group velocity dispersion curves estimation based on joint processing of sound pressure and vertical particle velocity
Authors: Zheng Guangxue , Piao Shengchun , Dong Yang , Gong Lijia
Published: December 2024

It is difficult to separate and estimate the intersected group velocity dispersion curves for different normal modes when the frequency is lower than the cutoff frequency of water column. To address this issue, an estimation method based on the joint processing of sound pressure (P) and vertical particle velocity (Vz) is proposed in this paper. Theoretical analysis shows that the amplitudes of P and Vz corresponding to the nth normal mode exhibit a complementary relationship in the certain frequency band, providing a theoretical basis for the method. The feasibility of the method was verified using sea trial data.
Two-transcript signature for differentiation and clinical outcomes in severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) patients: a double-blind, multicenter, validation study
Authors: Xu Nannan , Wen Sai , Yao Yongyuan , Guan Yanyan , Zhao Lianhui , Yang Lulu , Yang Hui , He Yishan , Wang Gang
Published: December 2024

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease with a high mortality rate that is often underdiagnosed due to the limitations of current laboratory testing. Timely diagnosis and early identification of severe cases are crucial to improving patient outcomes and overall survival rates. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of two transcripts, IFI44L and PI3, in the early differentiation between SFTS virus (SFTSV) infection and bacterial sepsis, as well as in the prompt identification of severe cases during epidemic seasons. In a prospective study conducted between 1 May 2021 and 30 September 2022, we enrolled 225 patients who presented with acute fever and thrombocytopenia at four hospitals in Shandong Province, China. The two-transcript signature provided a clear distinction between SFTS and bacterial infection, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.961 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.916–0.986), outperforming C-reactive protein (0.810 [95% CI 0.738–0.870]) and procalcitonin (0.764 [95% CI 0.687–0.830]). Importantly, the relative expression of the IFI44L gene was significantly elevated in fatal SFTS cases, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.820 (95% CI 0.727–0.914), indicating its potential as an early prognostic marker. Additionally, IFI44L and PI3 were identified as potential biomarkers for distinguishing SFTS patients with and without invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, with AUC values of 0.817 and 0.753, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that the two-transcript signature effectively distinguishes SFTSV infection from bacterial sepsis and helps identify high-risk individuals, guiding appropriate treatment during SFTS outbreak.
Autophagy promotes p72 degradation and capsid disassembly during the early phase of African swine fever virus infection
Authors: Song Jie , Li Jiangnan , Li Shuai , Zhao Gaihong , Li Tingting , Chen Xin , Hu Boli , Liu Jia , Lai Xinyu , Liu Sitong , Zhou Qiongqiong , Huang Li , Weng Changjiang
Published: December 2024

During viral infections, autophagy functions as a cell-intrinsic defense mechanism by facilitating the delivery of virions or viral components to the endosomal/lysosomal pathway for degradation. In this study, we report that internalized African swine fever virus (ASFV) virions enter autolysosomes during the early phase of viral infection. Autophagy selectively targets the major capsid protein p72 within the ASFV virion. The ASFV p72 protein undergoes modification through ubiquitination at the C-terminus, a process mediated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase Stub1. Subsequently, ubiquitinated p72 is recognized by the autophagy receptor SQSTM1/p62 through its ubiquitin-binding domain. Stub1 facilitates the ubiquitination and degradation of p72 in an HSPA8-dependent manner
via
selective autophagy. Autophagy plays a critical role in disassembling ASFV virions and further promotes the release of ASFV genomic DNA. These findings support the notion that autophagy is involved in and contributes to the capsid disassembly of ASFV, providing valuable insights into this essential viral process.

IMPORTANCE

African swine fever (ASF), a highly contagious disease caused by the ASF virus (ASFV), affects domestic pigs and wild boars, with a mortality rate of up to 100%. The ASF epidemic poses a persistent threat to the global pig industry. Currently, no effective vaccines or antiviral drugs are available for prevention and control. In this study, we discovered that autophagy promotes the degradation of p72 and the disassembly of the capsid during the early phase of ASFV infection. Mechanically, Stub1 facilitates the polyubiquitination of ASFV p72 through the chaperone HSPA8. The polyubiquitinated p72 then interacts with the autophagy receptor SQSTM1/p62, leading to its degradation
via
the selective autophagy pathway. These findings reveal the mechanism of p72 degradation through autophagy and provide new insights into the capsid disassembly process of ASFV.
Sdd3 regulates the biofilm formation of
Candida albicans
via the Rho1-PKC-MAPK pathway
Authors: Pang Li Mei , Zeng Guisheng , Chow Eve Wai Ling , Xu Xiaoli , Li Ning , Kok Yee Jiun , Chong Shu Chen , Bi Xuezhi , Gao Jiaxin , Seneviratne Chaminda Jayampath , Wang Yue
Published: December 2024

Candida albicans
, the most frequently isolated fungal pathogen in humans, forms biofilms that enhance resistance to antifungal drugs and host immunity, leading to frequent treatment failure. Understanding the molecular mechanisms governing biofilm formation is crucial for developing anti-biofilm therapies. In this study, we conducted a genetic screen to identify novel genes that regulate biofilm formation in
C. albicans
. One identified gene is
ORF19.6693
, a homolog of the
Saccharomyces cerevisiae SDD3
gene. The
sdd3
∆/∆ mutant exhibited severe defects in biofilm formation and significantly reduced chitin content in the cell wall. Overexpression of the constitutively active version of the Rho1 GTPase Rho1
G18V
, an upstream activator of the protein kinase C (PKC)-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cell-wall integrity pathway, rescued these defects. Affinity purification, mass spectrometry, and co-immunoprecipitation revealed Sdd3’s physical interaction with Bem2, the GTPase-activating protein of Rho1. Deletion of
SDD3
significantly reduced the amount of the active GTP-bound form of Rho1, thereby diminishing PKC-MAPK signaling and downregulating chitin synthase genes
CHS2
and
CHS8
. Taken together, our studies identify a new biofilm regulator, Sdd3, in
C. albicans
that modulates Rho1 activity through its inhibitory interaction with Bem2, thereby regulating the PKC-MAPK pathway to control chitin biosynthesis, which is critical for biofilm formation. As an upstream component of the pathway and lacking a homolog in mammals, Sdd3 has the potential to serve as an antifungal target for biofilm infections.

IMPORTANCE

The human fungal pathogen
Candida albicans
is categorized as a critical priority pathogen on the World Health Organization’s Fungal Priority Pathogens List. A key virulence attribute of this pathogen is its ability to form biofilms on the surfaces of indwelling medical devices. Fungal cells in biofilms are highly resistant to antifungal drugs and host immunity, leading to treatment failure. This study conducted a genetic screen to discover novel genes that regulate biofilm formation. We found that deletion of the
SDD3
gene caused severe biofilm defects. Sdd3 negatively regulates the Rho1 GTPase, an upstream activator of the protein kinase C-mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, through direct interaction with Bem2, the GTPase-activating protein of Rho1, resulting in a significant decrease in chitin content in the fungal cell wall. This chitin synthesis defect leads to biofilm formation failure. Given its essential role in biofilm formation, Sdd3 could serve as an antifungal target for biofilm infections.
Improved genome sequence of
Geobacillus kaustophilus
GBlys, a lysogenic strain by lysogenic phage phiOH2
Authors: Tanaka Rihito , Imbe Soki , Fujino Yasuhiro , Hiromasa Yasuaki , Mori Kazuki , Tashiro Kosuke , Doi Katsumi
Published: December 2024

Geobacillus kaustophilus
GBlys is a lysogenic strain of the temperate phage phiOH2, which is 3,644,428 bp long, has a GC content of 52%, and contains 3,595 predicted protein-coding genes. Here, we report a resequenced GBlys genome obtained by deep sequencing with long and short reads.
The probability of detecting host-specific microbial source tracking markers in surface waters was strongly associated with method and season
Authors: Murphy Claire M. , Weller Daniel L. , Love Tanzy M. T. , Danyluk Michelle D. , Strawn Laura K.
Published: December 2024

Fecal contamination of surface waters presents significant human health and environmental risks. While many methods for understanding fecal contamination cannot differentiate between human and animal sources, microbial source tracking (MST) marker methods are used to identify fecal sources. To understand how to best employ MST marker data for managing fecal contamination risks, the present study compiled previously collected MST marker data (
N
= 12,878 samples) from across North America; each sample in the data set had been tested for fecal contamination from one or more of five sources (avian, canine, human, ruminant, swine). Using these data, this study aimed to characterize associations between non-methodological and methodological factors and detection of host-specific MST markers and determine how methodological differences may complicate the interpretation of these associations between studies. Variance partitioning analysis was used to quantify the variance in host-specific MST marker detection attributable to non-methodological and methodological factors. Conditional forest and regression analysis were utilized to assess the association between detection and select non-methodological and methodological factors. Between 10% (canine) and 38% (human) of total variance was uniquely attributable to non-methodological factors for any of the fecal sources considered, while between 50% (human) and 84% (canine) of variance could not be attributed to either methodological or non-methodological factors. This highlights the need for standardization of methods for MST marker detection across studies but also suggests that other factors, beyond those non-methodological variables considered here, influenced variation in the likelihood of MST marker detection.

IMPORTANCE

This study underscores complications associated with comparing findings from studies that used different methodologies to detect the same fecal targets and highlights the difficulties associated with using non-comparable data to generalize findings and develop science-based risk management plans. These findings highlight the need for standardization of sampling and laboratory methods across microbial source tracking marker studies. Our findings build on previous research to suggest that one-size-fits-all approaches to managing fecal hazards in surface waterways may not be appropriate; instead, strategies tailored to specific water sources and conditions at the time of water use may be more effective.
The Resident European River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis (Petromyzontidae) and its Habitat Conditions in the Upper Reaches of Tributaries of the Pola and Msta Rivers
Authors: Kolotei A. V. , Kucheryavyy A. V. , Zvezdin A. O. , Pavlov D. S.
Published: December 2024

Abstract—

The results of the study of local populations of the resident form of the European river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis in medium and small watercourses (tributaries of the Pola and Msta rivers), located at a distance of ~700 km from the sea, in the native part of the species range, are presented. Such populations are still poorly studied, despite the fact that they ensure the preservation of the range under conditions of fragmentation of river system. The captured adults are typical representatives of the resident form, with a slight variation in the dentition. The population density of lamprey larvae in most of the studied habitats is low and average in a small part of them. The habitat conditions of ammocoetes are determined to be optimal, however, due to the peculiarities of small watercourses, their habitats are vulnerable to the negative effects of environmental factors.
Ischemia-induced expression status of cofilin 1, CRSP2, HSP90, HSP27, and IL8 in epicardial adipose tissue and single cell transcriptomic profiling of stromal cells
Authors: Cha Ed , Hong Sung Ho , La Vy , Madabhushi Pranav , Teramoto Darren , Fung Cameron , Thankam Finosh G.
Published: December 2024

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a rich source of EAT-derived stromal cells (EATDS), which possess regenerative potential. CRSP2, HSP27, IL8, HSP90, and Cofilin 1 were detected in the secretome of left ventricular stromal cells under ischemia challenge. However, the association of these genes in the EAT and EATDS remain understudied. We aim to assess the status of cofilin 1, CRSP2, HSP27, IL8, and HSP90 in the EAT of myocardial infarction (MI) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) swine models and in vitro stimulated ischemic EATDS. Expression status of these proteins in EAT were assessed by immunostaining, and in EATDS using qRT-PCR, immunostaining, and Western blot. EATDS phenotyping was performed using sc-RNAseq analysis. Cofilin 1 was increased while the other four genes were decreased in the CABG. IL8 and HSP90 were increased, while CRSP2, HSP27, and cofilin 1 were decreased in the MI group. Similar trend was displayed in the expression of these genes in EATDS. Additionally, EATDS displayed versatile phenotypes at single cell resolution based on the differential expression of various gene signatures. The findings revealed novel insights into EAT/EATDS biology and further understanding regarding the EATDS sub-phenotypes would open novel avenues in translational cardiology.
Unraveling the Differential Efficiency of Dorsal and Ventral Pathways in Visual Semantic Decoding
Authors: Huang Wei , Tang Ying , Wang Sizhuo , Li Jingpeng , Cheng Kaiwen , Yan Hongmei
Published: December 2024

Visual semantic decoding aims to extract perceived semantic information from the visual responses of the human brain and convert it into interpretable semantic labels. Although significant progress has been made in semantic decoding across individual visual cortices, studies on the semantic decoding of the ventral and dorsal cortical visual pathways remain limited. This study proposed a graph neural network (GNN)-based semantic decoding model on a natural scene dataset (NSD) to investigate the decoding differences between the dorsal and ventral pathways in process various parts of speech, including verbs, nouns, and adjectives. Our results indicate that the decoding accuracies for verbs and nouns with motion attributes were significantly higher for the dorsal pathway as compared to those for the ventral pathway. Comparative analyses reveal that the dorsal pathway significantly outperformed the ventral pathway in terms of decoding performance for verbs and nouns with motion attributes, with evidence showing that this superiority largely stemmed from higher-level visual cortices rather than lower-level ones. Furthermore, these two pathways appear to converge in their heightened sensitivity toward semantic content related to actions. These findings reveal unique visual neural mechanisms through which the dorsal and ventral cortical pathways segregate and converge when processing stimuli with different semantic categories.
RTL2032U+R820T mine radio signal detection using deep learning
Authors: Liu Yahui , Shao Yan , Guo Jiangtao
Published: December 2024

The number of radio signals used in mining operations is increasing dramatically, and this growth is creating unprecedented challenges for mine management. To address this issue, this paper proposes a deep learning-based RTL2032U+R820T radio signal analysis algorithm to make radio signal analysis in mines more intelligent. First, software-defined radio technology is employed to capture electromagnetic wave signals, convert analog signals into digital form and transmit them to the data analysis platform for processing. Second, the time window mode is used to divide the signal in the frequency domain into blocks, and feature extraction is performed on the processed electromagnetic wave signal based on energy-related features. Finally, the deep learning algorithm is used to further extract the serial signal feature vector to identify the radio signal. The article samples and analyzes 10 types of telecommunications equipment in real mines. The results show that this algorithm can effectively identify radio signals in mines, achieving an accuracy rate of 97.08%. This demonstrates that the proposed algorithm can significantly improve mine working efficiency, optimize equipment operating status and reduce the likelihood of failure.
A theoretical model to study of the contribution of potential attractive part on viscosity of real fluid mixtures
Authors: Khordad R.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, three real fluid mixtures, such as methane+Ar, methane+Kr and methane+Xe, are considered and the viscosity of the mixtures is theoretically calculated. For this purpose, three potential models are chosen. The potential models have the same repulsive terms but different attractive parts. The main purpose of this paper is to study the contribution of the potential attractive term on the viscosity of the fluid mixtures. To this goal, the Ornstein–Zernike (OZ) integral equation is first solved. Then, the viscosity is calculated by the Vesovic–Wakeham (VW) formalism. The obtained results in this work have been compared with the simulation data and also the experimental results. The findings show that the viscosity at low density for the three potential models is in good agreement with the simulation data. But, at high density, one of the potential models gave better agreement with the experimental results. Also, it is found that for each of the aforementioned mixtures, only one potential model gives a better result in comparison with the experimental data. The lowest deviation with the experimental data corresponds to the mixture of methane+Kr (3.0%) and methane+Xe (3.0%) by using different potential models. It means that the attractive term has an important role in predicting the viscosity of the fluid mixtures.
Schisandrin a Ameliorates Cardiac Injury and Dysfunction Induced by Hemorrhagic Shock via Activating the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Bo , Zhou Wuming , Zhang Jiacheng , Wang Nan , Yang Xingguan , Ge Xin
Published: December 2024

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) is a critical condition with high mortality caused by acute blood loss. Cardiac injury and dysfunction induced by HS is a major factor associated with the poor prognosis of affected patients. Schisandrin A (Sch A), a dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan extracted from Fructus schisandrae, exhibits multiple biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. However, the effect of Sch A on HS-caused cardiac injury and its underlying mechanism still lack research. In this study, we established an HS rat model through blood loss from the femoral artery and monitoring mean arterial pressure (MAP) followed by fluid resuscitation. Our findings suggested that cardiac dysfunction and pathological injury were induced by HS and attenuated by Sch A treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Apoptosis in cardiac tissue was promoted by HS, but suppressed after administration of Sch A by decreasing the protein expressions of cleaved-caspase-3 and -9. Moreover, excessive ROS production induced by HS was mitigated by Sch A, and the levels of oxidative stress indicators were improved by Sch A. Additionally, HS triggered the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and led to mitochondrial dysfunction. Sch A reversed this effect of HS on mitochondria. The transformation of cytochrome c (Cyto c) induced by HS was also restored by Sch A. Importantly, the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway mediated the protective effects of Sch A against cardiac injury induced by HS. In conclusion, it was found that Sch A ameliorated HS-induced cardiac injury and dysfunction through suppressing apoptosis and oxidative stress, as well as alleviating mitochondrial dysfunction via the Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Automatic Classification and Recommendation for English Teaching Materials Based on Natural Language Processing
Authors: Bai Yun , Xian Huihui
Published: December 2024

The wide range of digital educational resources calls for developing an accurate and efficient method for categorizing and recommending English teaching materials. An automatic classification and recommendation system has been created and implemented using Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques. Data from essays produced by English Language Learners (ELLs) in grades 8 through 12, as well as components including content, competency levels and score notes, are organized for this study. Models for precise language proficiency assessments are planned to be developed to enhance automated feedback mechanisms. Preprocessing methods such as stop-word removal, stemming and tokenization were applied to tidy up the data. Term Frequency–Inverse Document Frequency (TF–IDF) and word embeddings were two strategies used in the feature extraction process to convert textual data into numerical vectors. Then, the recently created Support Vector Machine–Neural Network–Genetic Algorithm (SVM–NN–GA) was fed to classify these vectors. The model’s performance was evaluated using F1-measure, accuracy, precision and recall metrics. Methods of collaborative filtering and content-based filtering were studied for the recommendation system. In contrast to collaborative filtering, which used user interaction data to identify patterns and suggest relevant items, content-based filtering matched materials with user preferences based on attributes gathered from NLP models. A hybrid recommendation system combines different approaches, increasing recommendations’ personalization and relevance. The results demonstrate that the hybrid recommendation and NLP-based categorization approach as a combination method suggestively improves the effectiveness of selecting appropriate teaching materials, helping teachers to enhance the learning process.
Hybrid Intelligent Optimization Model for Animation Design in Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Authors: Zhang Xi , Xue Kexin
Published: December 2024

Both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies have been incorporated, resulting in a revolution in how people interact with their surroundings. This is because these technologies have shared the actual and virtual worlds. This study presents a novel technique for developing and optimizing animation characters that use virtual and AR technology. To realize this goal, animated designs, production, and realism will be developed further. By integrating virtual and AR, this endeavor aims to create immersive environments that present consumers with an experience that is both more intuitive and participatory. The suggested algorithm, sunflower whale with genetic optimization (SWGO), aims to construct high-quality animated characters time-efficiently. Algorithm offered in this paper, advantages can be gained where commitment is made toward efficient composition for good quality animated characters. The algorithm improves variables such as shape, action realism, real-time performance, and user interaction capture, all of which contribute to making the characters realistic and enabling smooth real-time interaction. Such effectiveness helps save time as well as unnecessary computation that is usually incurred while evolving characters, hence making the process cheaper without compromising on quality standards. This is accomplished by adding physical simulation and improving several variables, including shape, action authenticity, real-time performance, and user interaction. An extensive simulation study has been conducted to authenticate the success of this approach. These trials have significantly improved the effectiveness and quality of animation character creation and production.
Cosmic Polarization Rotation from CMB data: A review for GR110
Authors: Gruppuso Alessandro , di Serego Alighieri Sperello
Published: December 2024

We provide an update to S. di Serego Alighieri, Int. J. Mod. Phys. D 24 (2015) 1530016, arXiv:1501.06460 [astro-ph.CO], focusing on recent developments regarding constraints on Cosmic Polarization Rotation (CPR), also known as Cosmic Birefringence (CB), derived from Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) polarization data.
Preformation of alpha particles in superheavy nuclei within an improved coulomb and proximity potential model
Authors: Shahana Aysha , Damodaran Lisha , Suresh T. P. , Prathapan K.
Published: December 2024

The alpha decay half-life and alpha preformation factor in superheavy elements are investigated within the framework of an improved Coulomb and proximity potential model (ICPPM). The CPPM is improved by including a more accurate expression for the diffuseness parameter (b) in the proximity potential. The alpha decay half-lives are calculated by inputting the experimental Q-values and the preformation probability is extracted. It is noteworthy that computed half-lives for alpha decay for superheavy nuclei by using the improved CPPM can accurately replicate experimental data and considerably minimize discrepancies. The estimated alpha decay half-lives are compared with the predictions of the universal decay law (UDL), 1 the Akrawy–Poenaru (AP) formula 2 and the prediction of the modified formula of Santhosh et al. suggested by Luo et al. 3 The hindrance factor (HF) is also calculated for the alpha decays considered in this study. Low values of the HF indicate the high accuracy of the predictions of the ICPPM.
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF TRANSIENT EDGE VASCULAR RESPONSE THROUGH VIRTUAL STENTING DEPLOYMENT WITHIN PATIENT-SPECIFIC CORONARY ARTERIES
Authors: XU CHUANGYE , SU HANG , WANG SHUANGWEI , WANG ZHE , GAO GUIFENG , LIU XIUJIAN
Published: December 2024

Late stent edge restenosis (SER) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains a significant complication with unclear etiology. This study aims to investigate the transient edge vascular response (EVR) using virtual stenting technology. Methods: Six finite element analysis (FEA) models were constructed to simulate stenting procedures. Profiles of lumen diameter, ellipticity, and maximum principal stress (MPS) distribution of the vascular wall were calculated and analyzed at four typical time points: the initial state, post-balloon pre-dilation analysis, maximum stent expansion, and final configuration. Results: Balloon pre-dilation significantly increased lumen diameters in the stented segments but had a minimal impact on the nonstented segments. At maximum stent expansion, the diameter of the stented segments showed a substantial increase compared to the post-balloon pre-dilation phase. Subsequently, a reduction in diameter was observed the following recoil of the vascular wall. The ellipticity of stenotic segments decreased markedly at maximum stent expansion. Following balloon pre-dilation, the stress within the artery wall was relatively low and did not differ significantly between stented and nonstented segments. At maximum stent expansion, MPS was elevated in both the stented and nonstented segments, particularly near the stent end. In the final configuration, there was a significant reduction in MPS, especially in the stented sections. Conclusion: The virtual stenting method allows for the simulation of transient EVR and facilitates the analysis of geometric and biomechanical changes. This approach aids in understanding the mechanical factors involved in late SER.
MATHEMATICAL ANALYSIS AND EMPIRICAL VALIDATION OF THERMAL DENATURATION OF GLUCOKINASE
Authors: BHAT ROOHI , RASHID FOUZIA , MANZOOR USMA , ASHAQ IRAM , KHANDAY M. A.
Published: December 2024

Glucokinase (GK), an enzyme critical to glucose metabolism, exhibits thermal instability, which can affect its enzymatic activity under physiological and pathological conditions. This study aims to mathematically model the thermal denaturation kinetics of GK and empirically validate the model using experimental data. To establish a mathematical model on thermal denaturation of glucokinase (E.C.2.7.1.2) and its experimental validation, the enzyme glucokinase was investigated in a 0.075[Formula: see text]M Tris HCl buffer with pH 9.0 at 30∘C and 0.6[Formula: see text]M MgCl2. A first-order kinetic model was developed to describe the enzyme’s denaturation, incorporating temperature-dependent reaction rates based on the Arrehenius equation. Empirical data were collected through Spectrophotometer across a temperature range of 20∘–60∘C. Experimental validation revealed that GK undergoes irreversible denaturation above 60∘ with a significant reduction as temperature increases. Moreover, the thermal denaturation of GK in the presence of osmolyte Urea is a critical process affecting enzyme stability and function. This study also aims to mathematically model and empirically validate the impact of Urea on GK’s thermal denaturation behavior. Results demonstrated that Urea significantly reduces the thermal stability of GK, lowering its denaturation temperature. The results are simulated graphically using the Wolfram MATHEMATICA software. The mathematical predictions closely matched experimental data, confirming the model’s accuracy.
An Experimental Investigation on Fabrication and Machining of Aluminum-Based (AA2024 + 1.5%Mg + 10%SiC) High Hardness Composite
Authors: Jain Ankit , Kumar Cheruku Sandesh , Shrivastava Yogesh
Published: December 2024

This study mainly emphasizes fabricating noble aluminum-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) through electric discharge machining (EDM) to create an advanced aluminum-based composite. MMCs are characterized by high strength, stiffness and wear resistance; thus they are extensively employed in aerospace, automotive and electronics industries. Several processes are used to fabricate MMCs including powder metallurgy, liquid infiltration and stir casting. Out of these processes, stir casting is the most appropriate one because of its simplicity, low costs, and effectiveness in achieving homogeneity in the dispersion of reinforcements. Moreover, the machining of MMCs is also an essential aspect of consideration as several issues like rapid tool wear and poor surface finish are common in MMCs, which can be solved by EDM. Furthermore, to enhance the quality characteristics (viz. hole circularity at entrance/exit and hole taper) during the EDM of the fabricated MMC the input parameters have been optimized using mathematical models formulated by response surface methodology and artificial neural networks. The integration of these two methods provides a suitable range of input parameters pertaining to optimal quality characteristic values. The obtained results have also been verified by performing validation experiments and from the results it has been found that the proposed methodology and obtained safe machining zone is significant.
Attribution-Selection Topology Optimization for Mechanical Joints
Authors: Su Yulong , Cheng Pu , Song Kai , Lei Chenglong
Published: December 2024

There are a few studies on the application of topology optimization technology for the optimal design of connection structures. Conventional topology optimization methods cannot be applied to such structures. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel optimization approach known as Attribution-Selection (ATS) Topology Optimization to enhance the structural performance of mechanical joints. The design domain is divided into two subdomains, and the attributes of each element in the design domain are treated as design variables. Additionally, local control rules based on Cellular Automata are developed to guide the evolution of the overall structure. During the iterative process, base elements and element-strengthening techniques are introduced to ensure the controllability and stability of the algorithm. Finally, an optimized numerical model example concerning the mortise and tenon joint confirms that the ATS Topology Optimization Method is both feasible and efficient. The results demonstrate that ATS Topology Optimization successfully extends topology optimization theory into fields related to flexible multi-body structures. This study outlines the principles and processes of the ATS Topology Optimization Method.
Relativistic spacetimes admitting h-almost conformal ω-Ricci–Bourguignon solitons
Authors: Azami Shahroud , De Uday Chand
Published: December 2024

We study [Formula: see text]-almost conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon solitons and [Formula: see text]-almost gradient conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon solitons in spacetimes of general relativity. At first, we provide an example of [Formula: see text]-almost conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon soliton. Next, we prove that if a generalized Robertson–Walker spacetime admits an [Formula: see text]-almost conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon soliton or an [Formula: see text]-almost gradient conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon soliton, then it becomes a perfect fluid spacetime. Moreover, we have observed that a spacetime with [Formula: see text]-almost conformal [Formula: see text]-Ricci–Bourguignon soliton whose potential vector field is a conformal vector field is an [Formula: see text]-Einstein manifold.
A family of timeless six-dimensional universes
Authors: Boskoff Wladimir-Georges
Published: December 2024

This paper highlights a family of timeless universes connected by the same simple change of coordinates which allows to transfer between the two metrics involved in the description of each such universe. The first example can be called the simple-basic timeless universe. This universe allows one to create some other timeless universes, one of them being without matter, one in expansion and another one of the wormhole type. In all these universes, there are regions where classical physical time exists, but a global time coordinate indicating the temporal order of events does not exist. This happens because, in these universes, we can mathematically construct future oriented time-like loops and closed chains of future oriented time-like curves. The example of timeless expanding universe shows that time, in general, is not a consequence of space expansion.
One-dimensional hyperbolic conservation laws: past and future
Authors: Bressan Alberto
Published: December 2024

This paper intends to provide a brief review of the current well-posedness theory for hyperbolic systems of conservation laws in one space dimension, also pointing out open problems and possible research directions.
Spatial structure of the ovalulin molecule
Authors: Agayeva Leyla , Akhmedov Namiq , Imanova Gunel
Published: December 2024

The conformational possibilities of the ovalulin (Tyr1-Pro2-Leu3-Asp4-Leu5-Phe6-OH) molecule were studied by theoretical conformational analysis. The potential function of the system is chosen as the sum of non-valence, electrostatic, and torsion interactions and the energy of hydrogen bonds. The low-energy conformations of the ovalulin molecule, the dihedral angles of the main and side chains of the amino acid residues that make up the molecule were found, and the energy of intra- and inter-residual interactions was estimated. It has been shown that the spatial structure of the ovalulin molecule is represented by conformations of eight shapes of the peptide skeleton. The results obtained can be used to elucidate the structural and structural-functional organization of the ovalulin molecule.
The role of subsurface models to evaluate geo-containment for safe storage of CO
2
– a case study of the Porthos CCS project in the Netherlands
Authors: Thürschmid Gloria , de Kok Joop , Schiferli Wouter , Aramburo Velez Daniel
Published: December 2024

3D static and dynamic models are the recommended standard to assess uncertainties in the subsurface. When focusing on CO
2
storage in depleted hydrocarbon fields, uncertainties from the potential storage resources are reasonably constrained, but uncertainties can be substantial regarding injectivity and, most importantly for safe operations, the evaluation of storage containment and fault stability. Traditional modelling workflows from the oil and gas industry can be followed to evaluate storage resources and injectivity. However, CO
2
project-specific risks require different modelling workflows with additional interfaces between disciplines like geomechanics and flow assurance, which need to be linked logically to capture the subsurface process. It has been demonstrated that the operational objectives for long-term CO
2
storage can be safely achieved. The structural setting in the area of interest is well understood, and sealing integrity of the overburden sections and risk of seismic events has been assessed. Mechanisms and impact of potential CO
2
migration have been studied in detail and safeguards have been assessed. The Porthos case has proven that the applied workflow is a suitable way to get the full picture from multiple disciplines, highlighting the need for a solid initial framing and a risk-based modelling approach.
Memory Checking Requires Logarithmic Overhead
Authors: Boyle Elette , Komargodski Ilan , Vafa Neekon
Published: December 2024

We study the complexity of memory checkers with computational security and prove the first general tight lower bound.

Memory checkers, first introduced over 30 years ago by Blum, Evans, Gemmel, Kannan, and Naor (FOCS ’91, Algorithmica ’94), allow a user to store and maintain a large memory on a remote and unreliable server by using small trusted local storage. The user can issue instructions to the server and after every instruction, obtain either the correct value or a failure (but not an incorrect answer) with high probability. The main complexity measure of interest is the size of the local storage and the number of queries the memory checker makes upon every logical instruction. The most efficient known construction has query complexity
O
(log 
n
/log log 
n
) and local space proportional to a computational security parameter, assuming one-way functions, where
n
is the logical memory size. Dwork, Naor, Rothblum, and Vaikuntanathan (TCC ’09) showed that for a restricted class of “deterministic and non-adaptive” memory checkers, this construction is optimal, up to constant factors. However, going beyond the small class of deterministic and non-adaptive constructions has remained a major open problem.

In this work, we fully resolve the complexity of memory checkers by showing that
any
construction with local space
p
and query complexity
q
must satisfy

\[
p \ge \frac{n}{(\log n)^{O(q)}} \;.
\]

This implies, as a special case, that
q
≥
Ω
(log 
n
/log log 
n
) in any scheme, assuming that
p
≤
n
1 − ε
for ε > 0. The bound applies to any scheme with computational security, completeness 2/3, and inverse polynomial in
n
soundness (all of which make our lower bound only stronger). We further extend the lower bound to schemes where the read complexity

q
r

and write complexity

q
w

differ. For instance, we show the tight bound that if

q
r

=
O
(1) and
p
≤
n
1 − ε
for ε > 0, then

q
w

≥
n

Ω
(1)

. This is the first lower bound, for any non-trivial class of constructions, showing a read-write query complexity trade-off.

Our proof is via a delicate compression argument showing that a “too good to be true” memory checker can be used to compress random bits of information. We draw inspiration from tools recently developed for lower bounds for relaxed locally decodable codes. However, our proof itself significantly departs from these works, necessitated by the differences between settings.
Optimizing Geo-Distributed Data Processing with Resource Heterogeneity over the Internet
Authors: Mirpour Marzuni Saeed , Toosi Adel , Savadi Abdorreza , Naghibzadeh Mahmud , Taniar David
Published: December 2024

The traditional MapReduce frameworks were originally designed for processing data within a single cluster and are not suitable for handling geo-distributed data. Consequently, alternative approaches such as Hierarchical and Geo-Hadoop have been proposed to address this limitation. However, these approaches still face challenges in efficiently managing inter-cluster data transfer, particularly considering the heterogeneity of clusters and varying bandwidth among them. Moreover, the need to transmit results to a central global reducer for geo-distributed MapReduce operations adds unnecessary complexity. To tackle these issues, we introduce Extended Cross-MapReduce (ECMR), a framework that integrates resource heterogeneity and network links in geo-distributed MapReduce workflows. ECMR optimizes data management and determines the necessary data volume for generating final results. To enhance performance, ECMR leverages the overlap between data transfer and execution time by utilizing multiple global reducers and grouping temporary results that require data transfer over the Internet. In ECMR, we propose a bipartite graph and extend the Gale-Shapley algorithm to determine the optimal number of clusters and select the most suitable locations for global reducers. Through extensive experimental evaluations conducted on a real testbed, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed ECMR method. The results exhibit significant improvements over traditional Hierarchical and Geo-Hadoop approaches, achieving reductions of up to 81% and 85% in overall makespan, respectively.
The Pulse of Mood Online: Unveiling Emotional Reactions in a Dynamic Social Media Landscape
Authors: Guo Siyi , He Zihao , Rao Ashwin , Morstatter Fred , Brantingham Jeffrey , Lerman Kristina
Published: December 2024

The rich and dynamic information environment of social media provides researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs with opportunities to learn about social phenomena in a timely manner. However, using these data to understand social behavior is difficult due to heterogeneity of topics and events discussed in the highly dynamic online information environment. To address these challenges, we present a method for systematically detecting and measuring emotional reactions to offline events using change point detection on the time series of collective affect, and further explaining these reactions using a transformer-based topic model. We demonstrate the utility of the method by successfully detecting major and smaller events on three different datasets, including (1) a Los Angeles Tweet dataset between Jan. and Aug. 2020, in which we revealed the complex psychological impact of the BlackLivesMatter movement and the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) a dataset related to abortion rights discussions in USA, in which we uncovered the strong emotional reactions to the overturn of Roe v. Wade and state abortion bans, and (3) a dataset about the 2022 French presidential election, in which we discovered the emotional and moral shift from positive before voting to fear and criticism after voting. We further demonstrate the importance of disaggregating data by topics and populations to mitigate potential biases when studying collective emotions. The capability of our method allows for better sensing and monitoring of population’s reactions during crises using online data.
Ransomware Over Modern Web Browsers: A Novel Strain and a New Defense Mechanism
Authors: Oz Harun , Tuncay Güliz Seray , Aris Ahmet , Acar Abbas , Babun Leonardo , Uluagac Selcuk
Published: December 2024

Ransomware is an increasingly prevalent form of malware targeting end-users, governments, and businesses. As it has evolved, adversaries added new capabilities to their arsenal. We propose a next-generation browser-based ransomware,
RøB
, which performs its malicious actions via web technologies, File System Access API (FSA) and WebAssembly (Wasm).
RøB
uses this API through the victims’ browsers; hence, it does not require the victims to download and install malicious binaries. We performed extensive evaluations with three different OSs, 23 file formats, 29 distinct directories, five cloud providers, and four antivirus solutions. Our evaluations show that
RøB
can encrypt various types of files in the local and cloud-integrated directories, external storage devices, and network-shared folders of victims. Our experiments also reveal that popular cloud solutions, Box Individual and Apple iCloud can be severely affected by
RøB
. Moreover, we conducted tests with commercial antivirus software such as AVG, Avast, Kaspersky, and Malware Bytes that perform sensitive directory and suspicious behavior monitoring against ransomware. We verified that
RøB
can evade these antivirus software and encrypt victim files. Moreover, existing ransomware detection solutions in the literature also cannot be a remedy against
RøB
due to its distinct features. Therefore, in this paper, we also propose
RøBguard
, a new detection system for
RøB
-like attacks.
RøBguard
monitors the web applications that use the FSA API via function hooking and uses a machine learning classifier to detect
RøB
-like attacks. We implemented a proof of concept version of
RøBguard
and our evaluation results show that
RøBguard
can detect
RøB
-like browser-based ransomware attacks effectively. We also provide future research directions that should be addressed in this domain.