bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Dynamics of Ions in a Poly(ethylene oxide) Matrix Near a Graphite Surface
Authors: Balogun Adegbola , Khare Rajesh
Published: June 2024

Solid polymer electrolytes are being explored as replacements for organic electrolytes in lithium‐ion batteries due to their less flammable nature and high mechanical strength. However, challenges remain, such as low ionic conductivity, and significant interfacial impedance with electrodes. Understanding the structure and dynamics of ions within polymer electrolytes and near the anode is crucial for enhancing battery performance and safety. In this study, the structural and dynamic properties of lithium cation (Li+) and bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imide anion (TFSI−) in poly(ethylene oxide) matrix are examined in bulk PEO‐LiTFSI electrolyte and in the presence of a graphite surface using molecular dynamics simulations. The findings suggest that the presence of graphite surface does not affect the coordination of oxygen atoms around the Li+ ions. Results also show that the dynamics of the ions and ether oxygen is hindered near the graphite surface compared to the region away from the graphite surface.
Technical note: Characterization of a multi‐point scintillation dosimetry research platform for a low‐field MR‐Linac
Authors: Crosby Jennie , Ruff Chase , Gregg Ken , Turcotte Jonathan , Glide‐Hurst Carri
Published: June 2024

Background

MRI‐guided radiation therapy (MRgRT) requires unique quality assurance equipment to address MR‐compatibility needs, minimize electron return effect, handle complex dose distributions, and evaluate real‐time dosimetry for gating. Plastic scintillation detectors (PSDs) are an attractive option to address these needs.

Purpose

To perform a comprehensive characterization of a multi‐probe PSD system in a low‐field 0.35 T MR‐linac, including detector response assessment and gating performance.

Methods

A four‐channel PSD system (HYPERSCINT RP‐200) was assembled. A single channel was used to evaluate repeatability, percent depth dose (PDD), detector response as a function of orientation with respect to the magnetic field, and intersession variability. All four channels were used to evaluate repeatability, linearity, and output factors. The four PSDs were integrated into an MR‐compatible motion phantom at isocenter and in gradient regions. Experiments were conducted to evaluate gating performance and tracking efficacy.

Results

For repeatability, the maximum standard deviation of repeated measurements was 0.13% (single PSD). Comparing the PSD to reference data, PDD had a maximum difference of 1.12% (10 cm depth, 6.64 × 6.64 cm2). Percent differences for rotated detector setups were negligible (< 0.3%). All four PSDs demonstrated linear response over 10–1000 MU delivered and the maximum percent difference between the baseline and measured output factors was 0.78% (2.49 × 2.49 cm2). Gating experiments had 400 cGy delivered to isocenter with < 0.8 cGy variation for central axis measures and < 0.7 cGy for the gradient sampled region. Real‐time dosimetry measurements captured spurious beam‐on incidents that correlated to tracking algorithm inaccuracies and highlighted gating parameter impact on delivery efficiency.

Conclusions

Characterization of the multi‐point PSD dosimetry system in a 0.35 T MR‐linac demonstrated reliability in a low‐field MR‐Linac setting, with high repeatability, linearity, small intersession variability, and similarity to baseline data for PDD and output factors. Time‐resolved, multi‐point dosimetry also showed considerable promise for gated MR‐Linac applications.
Associations and outcomes of prenatally detected rhombencephalosynapsis
Authors: Kunpalin Yada , Miller Elka , Raghuram Kamini , Shannon Patrick , Fisher Yael , Chau Vann , Toi Ants , Chitayat David , Blaser Susan , Shinar Shiri
Published: June 2024

Objective

To describe the association between prenatal imaging and neurodevelopmental outcomes of fetuses with rhombencephalosynapsis (RES).

Study design

Thirty‐four pregnancies complicated by RES were identified from our institutional databases based on US and/or MRI findings. Genetic testing results were gathered. In cases of termination of pregnancy, we studied the association between prenatal imaging and neuropathologic findings. For those who opted for expectant management, comprehensive developmental assessments and postnatal MRI imaging were evaluated.

Results

Over one third of fetuses in our cohort had complete RES. Common intracranial anomalies identified were mesencephalosynapsis, aqueduct stenosis and diencephalosynapsis. The degree of RES was not associated with the frequency of additional central nervous system anomalies. MRI had a good correlation with neuropathologic findings with regard to the degree of RES, aqueduct stenosis and mesencephalosynapsis. Postmortem autopsy showed that one third of our cases had VACTERL‐H and almost all of those had complete RES. All liveborn neonates(n = 6) had aqueduct stenosis requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunting within days of delivery (median 5 days). While a large proportion of prenatally suspected complete RES were found to have partial RES on postnatal imaging, prenatal diagnosis of aqueduct stenosis remained unchanged. All children that were at least 2 years old (n = 3) had global developmental delay.

Conclusion

Prenatal assessment of the RES severity is challenging and may be unreliable. Nevertheless, postnatal prognosis is poor for both complete and partial RES. Associated aqueductal stenosis, can be reliably assessed prenatally and this may contribute to worse postnatal prognosis than the degree of RES.
Flexible laser plastic welding as an addition to AM
Authors: Kroth Lea , Geiger René , Kopp Sebastian‐Paul , Tangermann‐Gerk Katja
Published: June 2024

Individualization, shorter product cycles and prototyping are leading to increased use of additive manufacturing in industry. A reliable and versatile process like laser plastic welding is needed to join parts with other additively manufactured or injection molded parts.
Citrus‐mediated gene silencing of cytochrome P450 suppresses insecticide resistance and increases mortality in Diaphorina citri
Authors: Kishk Abdelaziz , Stelinski Lukasz L. , Gowda Siddarame , Killiny Nabil
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, is a hemipteran that vectors the causal pathogen of citrus greening disease, or huanglongbing (HLB). HLB is a tree killing disease that has severely limited citrus production globally. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, and mitigation depends on multiple insecticide applications to reduce vector populations. Silencing of cytochrome P450 expression associated with detoxification enzymes by RNA interference is known to increase susceptibility of D. citri to insecticides. However, dsRNA was previously introduced into psyllids by topical applications. The possible application of this technology for pest management will require effective field delivery of the dsRNA. Therefore, we evaluated a virus vector (Citrus tristeza virus; ‘mild strain’ T36) to deliver gene silencing directly to this sap‐sucking insect via plant phloem. Citrus macrophylla plants inoculated with CTV expressing a truncated consensus sequence of CYP450 (CTV‐tCYP450) constantly produced small interfering RNA in the plant phloem that targeted five cytochrome p540 (CYP450) genes in D. citri.

RESULTS

Insecticide susceptible D. citri reared on citrus infected with CTV‐tCYP450 were subsequently more susceptible to imidacloprid, fenpropathrin, carbaryl, and chlorpyrifos than those reared on citrus infected with wildtype CTV or non‐infected negative controls. Additionally, nymph survival and adult lifespan were significantly reduced when psyllids were reared on CTV‐tCYP450 citrus plants compared with controls. Interestingly, similar results were obtained after one and two generations of rearing. Finally, field‐collected psyllids from areas with known broad‐spectrum insecticide resistance were rendered more susceptible to imidacloprid and fenpropathrin after feeding on CTV‐tCYP450 citrus trees as compared with those reared on controls.

CONCLUSION

The integration of citrus‐mediated RNA inference targeting psyllid detoxification enzymes could function as a resistance management tool and reduce insecticide input in an integrated pest management program for HLB. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Hole Generation in Polarization‐Doped AlxGa1–xN (x = 0.9–0.35)‐Graded Layer with Heavily Mg‐Doped Al0.35Ga0.65N Contact Layer for 275 nm Deep‐Ultraviolet Light‐Emitting Diode
Authors: Takahata Hayata , Kachi Tomoaki , Hamashima Naoki , Oka Ryunosuke , Ishiguro Hisanori , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Iwaya Motoaki , Saito Yoshiki , Okuno Koji
Published: June 2024

Herein, hole generation in a 60 nm thick polarization‐doped AlxGa1–xN (x = 0.9–0.35)‐graded layer with some Mg doping (5 × 1018 cm−3) is demonstrated by using a 10 nm thick heavily (1 × 1020 cm−3) Mg‐doped Al0.35Ga0.65N contact layer. First, light emission from a deep‐ultraviolet light‐emitting diode is observed with the AlxGa1–xN (x = 0.9–0.35)‐graded layer and the Al0.35Ga0.65N contact layer, indicating a vertical hole transport from the Al0.35Ga0.65N contact layer to the active region through the polarization‐doped AlGaN‐graded layer. Second, hole concentration, mobility, and resistivity values of the AlxGa1–xN (x = 0.9–0.35)‐graded layer and the Al0.35Ga0.65N contact layer are evaluated by Hall effect measurement. A hole concentration of 1.8 × 1018 cm−3 is clearly observed by removing the AlGaN contact layer (not underneath of electrodes) to minimize a parallel conduction. The hole concentration shows a very weak temperature dependence from room temperature down to 150 K, suggesting that the holes are generated by polarization doping. Hole generation in the fully strained AlxGa1–xN (x = 0.9–0.35)‐graded layer is directly evaluated by Hall effect measurement with the AlGaN contact layer just underneath the electrodes.
Network intrusion detection system for IoT security using machine learning and statistical based hybrid feature selection
Authors: Walling Supongmen , Lodh Sibesh
Published: June 2024

The widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has revolutionized daily life, offering convenience and efficiency. However, this growth has also brought new security challenges. With the escalating use of Internet and network technology, the number of cyber‐attacks has increased, intensifying the focus on Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) among researchers. Network intrusion detection (NID) plays a crucial role in securing IoT networks, becoming essential for modern security infrastructure. Recently, machine learning algorithms have shown promise in providing IDS solutions. Yet, IoT IDS systems face challenges due to their functional and physical diversity, making comprehensive feature utilization impractical. Therefore, effective feature selection becomes imperative. In this research, a novel feature selection methodology for anomaly‐based NIDS is proposed. The methodology commences by employing two filter‐based techniques, namely 1‐way ANOVA and the Pearson correlation coefficient, to meticulously identify and extract pertinent features from the dataset. These methods serve as initial filters to discern the most relevant attributes, ensuring that only the most informative features are retained for subsequent analysis. Subsequently, the most optimal features identified by both methodologies are extracted utilizing the principles of union and intersection in mathematical set theory. Using the NSL‐KDD and UNSW‐NB15 datasets, we exemplify how our model can outperform conventional ML classifiers in terms of detection rate, precision, recall. In our study, intrusion detection is carried out by SVM, kNN, Decision Tree, Logistic Regression and Random Forest using trained attack patterns. The demonstrated results highlight the exceptional performance of the proposed system, with an impressive accuracy rate of 99.6% on the NSL‐KDD dataset and a substantial 97.7% on the UNSW‐NB15 dataset, clearly surpassing the performance of contemporary methods.
Introduction
Authors: Boillet Véronique , Weerts Sophie , Ziegler Andreas R.
Published: June 2024

At the 1906 Olympic Games in Athens, the athlete Peter O’Connor protested the erasure of Ireland from the Olympics by climbing the flagpole during his medal ceremony, and replacing the Union Jack with the Irish flag. At the 1932 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, in the midst of the Great Depression, demonstrators denounced the economic injustice of the high cost of the Games. In 1968, at the Mexico City Olympics, Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a Black Power salute when receiving their medals. More recently, the construction of infrastructure for the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics led to the displacement of marginalized communities, with the promise of access to new infrastructure, which has yet to materialize. Whether concerning particular athletes, people involved in the organization of sporting events, or other causes, these various protests at the Olympics throughout history prove that attacks on human dignity, individual freedom, and equality between individuals also echo in sport. From this perspective, the sporting environment is not disconnected from major contemporary social issues: it constitutes a public space in which injustices can be denounced, but also the theater in which prejudices are perpetuated against various parties, such as athletes or workers. The issue of Sport in the field of human rights has received little attention. However, several elements show that it is an issue that is becoming increasingly important, as demonstrated by the recent case law of the European Court of Human Rights and the development of the business and human rights approach in sports institutions. In this context, our book first aims to cover the issue of human rights in the field of Sport from the athletes' perspective. It considers that athletes are part of a specific category of human rights beneficiaries, which therefore deserves special attention from a theoretical and practical point of view. Second, it wants to inform athletes about human rights in their specific context.
Conceptualizing the Right to Sport: Why Should Trivial Participation in Sport Be Regarded as a Human Right?
Authors: Di Marco Antonio
Published: June 2024

Considering its extraordinary capacity to be a vehicle of rights, and to give meaning to reality, sport is among the most important trivial subjects in the world. Discriminated groups, which are denied (or substantially limited) access to the practice of sport, demand not only their right to participate in sporting activities but also the recognition of this claim as valid by society and public authorities. This chapter proposes the idea that expanding the catalogue of human rights, by including the right to sport, is supported by the existing body of international human rights law. It would reinforce the protection of human rights in sporting contexts by enhancing the unity of fragmented claims founded on a plurality of legal instruments. Taking into consideration the thesis that inclusive and non-discriminatory access to sporting activities would be an amalgamation of several treaty-based rights, the legal foundations of the right to sport are explained and evaluated. By verifying the legal relationship between access to sporting activities and sport’s social functions, the beneficiaries of such a right are investigated, and the obligations for national and sporting authorities are explored. By arguing that the right to pursue personal development would play a central role, while the right to health and education would be complementary, this chapter strives to answer the essential ethical question of why the trivial participation in sport should be considered an inherent right of the human being, cutting through the considerable confusion surrounding the right to sport.
#MeToo, Sport, and Women: Foul, Own Goal, or Touchdown? Online Abuse of Women in Sport as a Contemporary Issue
Authors: Barker Kim , Jurasz Olga
Published: June 2024

Online violence against women (OVAW), and online gender-based abuse more broadly, have been acknowledged at an international level as an obstacle to gender equality as well as women’s freedom of expression, positioning these phenomena as a concern from a human rights perspective. In particular, the scale, seriousness and the impact of social media abuse has raised questions about the appropriate legal protections for individuals from such forms of abuse and its harms. The world of sport has not been immune to the devasting impact of social media abuse, especially online hate, leading to a social media boycott within the British sport community in May 2021 as a protest against online hostility and discrimination. However, little action has been taken to date to address gender-based abuse and online misogyny directed at women in sport. Left unchecked and unaccounted for, instances of such online abuse reinforce the already existing structures and gender stereotypes that fuel gender-based hostility and violence against women. What is more, by being left unchallenged and allowed to play out in the very public context of professional sports, these behaviors become normalized, contributing to the continuum of violence against women, but doing so on a global and high-profile stage. While there have been controversial campaigns, such as taking the knee, there are few of any significance from the sporting world that address OVAW. Limited protections exist in terms of human rights, but little has been done by sporting bodies, sporting associations, and unions to add value to any initiatives aimed at tackling OVAW in sport. This chapter questions the role of sport in supporting the global action against violence against women, while also assessing the broader response to problems posed by online abuse, online harassment, and its gendered aspects. Do human rights protections go far enough? Is this an issue for sporting bodies, or is it an ‘athlete-only’ problem?
Hormonal Eligibility Criteria in Women’s Professional Sports Under the ECHR: The Case of Caster Semenya v. Switzerland
Authors: Cannoot Pieter , Van de Graaf Cathérine , Decoster Ariël , Poppelwell-Scevak Claire , Schoentjes Sarah
Published: June 2024

Although society is (slowly) evolving, rigid gender stereotypes still persist in the world of professional sports. In line with the creation of a strict binary division of athletes, sex-testing policies based on stereotypical considerations of womanhood have come to target ‘overly masculine’ women athletes with variations of sex characteristics (VSC), as elevated levels of testosterone are believed to constitute a competitive advantage.

Some international sports federations, such as World Athletics, have adopted hormonal eligibility criteria (HEC) for women’s sports competitions, although the underlying scientific evidence has been strongly contested. Athletes are excluded if they do not comply with these requirements. The standard way of reducing testosterone levels is via the use of hormonal contraceptives, although irreversible surgical treatment also occurs. HEC for sports competitions raises important issues in respect of the fundamental rights of professional women athletes with VSC, and have been challenged before the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).

In this chapter, we analyze the HEC set by World Athletics in light of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which is the relevant framework for addressing human rights concerns since Switzerland accepts jurisdiction for appeals against CAS decisions. We discuss the relevant societal background, argue how HEC for sports competitions violates the individual’s right to bodily and mental integrity as protected by Article 3 ECHR, and explain that the scope of the state’s positive obligations under Article 8 ECHR needs to be interpreted as encompassing a duty to ensure the effective protection of an athlete’s bodily and psychological integrity. Finally, we set out why HEC directed at women athletes with VSC amounts to intersectional discrimination in breach of Article 14 ECHR in conjunction with Articles 3 and 8 ECHR.
The Incompatibility of Banning Political Speech in Sports with the Right to Freedom of Expression Under the European Convention on Human Rights
Authors: Gemalmaz H. Burak
Published: June 2024

The SGBs and the CAS have created principles specific to the realm of sports based on the assumption that sports has a specific legal order and dispute resolution mechanisms independent from the state, namely,lex sportiva. In fact, sports law has specific principles, rules, and applications that diverge from International Human Rights Law.

But the aforementionedlex sportivaassumption cannot be extended to totally exclude human rights concerns in the field of sports, especially after the recent ECtHR rulings, starting withMutu & Pechstein Case. Through those rulings, human rights standards infiltrate into sports law.

This article particularly focusses on one of the most contested sports law rules, namely prohibition on political statements of sportspersons, adopted by all SBGs, in the light of recent judgments of ECtHR against Turkey concerning freedom of expression under Article 10 of the ECHR, and asserts that categorical universal ban on political speech in sports is not in conformity with the right to freedom of expression. However, after analysing relevant ECtHR judgments in detail, the article argues that by confining its review strictly to procedural grounds, the ECtHR missed the opportunity to rule the incompatibility of a blanket ban on political speech in sports with freedom of expression at an abstract level.

The article concludes that the ECtHR’s acceptance that sportspersons have the freedom of speech in political matters and that such a right cannot be suspended categorically due to the sole fact that they belong to sports community, nevertheless, indicates that blanket ban on political speech cannot be sustainable any more.
Self-interacting forbidden dark matter under a cannibally co-decaying phase
Authors: Yang Kwei-Chou
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In a usual dark matter (DM) model without a huge mass difference between the DM and lighter mediator, using the coupling strength suitable for having the correct relic density, the resulting self-interaction becomes several orders of magnitude smaller than that required to interpret the small-scale structures. We present a framework that can offer a solution for this point. We consider a model that contains the vector DM and a heavier but unstable Higgs-like scalar in the hidden sector. When the temperature drops below ~ mDM, the hidden sector, which is thermally decoupled from the visible sector, enters a cannibal phase, during which the DM density is depleted with the out-of-equilibrium decay of the scalar. The favored parameter region, giving the correct relic density and the proper size of self-interactions, shows the scalar-to-DM mass ratio ∈ [1.1, 1.33] and the scalar mass ∈ [9, 114] MeV. A sizable parameter space still survives the most current constraints and can be further probed by the near future NA62 beam dump experiment.
Line defect half-indices of SU(N) Chern-Simons theories
Authors: Okazaki Tadashi , Smith Douglas J.
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We study the Wilson line defect half-indices of 3d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 supersymmetric SU(N) Chern-Simons theories of level k ≤ – N with Neumann boundary conditions for the gauge fields, together with 2d Fermi multiplets and fundamental 3d chiral multiplets to cancel the gauge anomaly. We derive some exact results and also make some conjectures based on expansions of the q-series. We find several interesting connections with special functions known in the literature, including Rogers-Ramanujan functions for which we conjecture integral representations, and the appearance of Appell-Lerch sums for certain Wilson line half-index grand canonical ensembles which reveal an unexpected appearance of mock modular functions. We also find intriguing q-difference equations relating half-indices to Wilson line half-indices. Some of these results also have a description in terms of a dual theory with Dirichlet boundary conditions for the vector multiplet in the dual theory.
A story of non-conformal branes: spindles, disks, circles and black holes
Authors: Boisvert Mathieu , Ferrero Pietro
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We consider the (p + 2)-dimensional gauged supergravities arising as a consistent truncation of type II on S8−p, which are associated with the near-horizon limit of Dp-branes, for p = 2, 4, 5, 6 (and NS5-branes for p = 5). In a truncation of these theories with only abelian gauge fields and scalars, we find several classes of new solutions, with and without supersymmetry. Our ansatz for such backgrounds is inspired by the recent progress in the study of branes wrapped on orbifolds, but unlike those examples we consider “non-conformal branes”, i.e. no Anti de Sitter factors in the metric. Focusing on cases with non-trivial gauge fields, we can divide the solutions that we present in three categories: 1) branes wrapping Riemann surfaces, spindles and disks, 2) branes wrapped on a circle with a holonomy for the gauge field along the circle and 3) electrically charged black holes in gauged supergravity, which uplift to rotating branes in ten dimensions. We carefully analyze the conditions for supersymmetry in all these cases.
Next-to-eikonal corrected double graviton dressing and gravitational wave observables at $$ \mathcal{O}\left({G}^2\right) $$
Authors: Fernandes Karan , Lin Feng-Li
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Following a recent proposal to describe inelastic eikonal scattering processes in terms of gravitationally dressed elastic eikonal amplitudes, we motivate a collinear double graviton dressing and investigate its properties. This is derived from a generalized Wilson line operator in the worldline formalism by integrating over fluctuations of the eikonal trajectories of external particles in gravitationally interacting theories. The dressing can be expressed as a product of exponential terms — a coherent piece with contributions to all odd orders in the gravitational coupling constant and a term quadratic in graviton modes, with the former providing classical gravitational wave observables. In particular, the coherent dressing involves $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\kappa}^3\right) $$
O

κ
3

subleading double graviton corrections to the Weinberg soft factor. We use this dressing to derive expressions for the waveform, radiative momentum spectrum and angular momentum. In a limiting case of the waveform, we derive the nonlinear memory effect resulting from the emission of nearly soft gravitons from a scattering process.
Cutoff brane vs the Karch-Randall brane: the fluctuating case
Authors: Lin Jiong , Lu Yizhou , Wen Qiang
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Recently, certain holographic Weyl transformed CFT2 is proposed to capture the main features of the AdS3/BCFT2 correspondence [1, 2]. In this paper, by adapting the Weyl transformation, we simulate a generalized AdS/BCFT set-up where the fluctuation of the Karch-Randall (KR) brane is considered. In the gravity dual of the Weyl transformed CFT, the so-called cutoff brane induced by the Weyl transformation plays the same role as the KR brane. Unlike the non-fluctuating configuration, in the 2d effective theory the additional twist operator is inserted at a different place, compared with the one inserted on the brane. Though this is well-understood in the Weyl transformed CFT set-up, it is confusing in the AdS/BCFT set-up where the effective theory is supposed to locate on the brane. This confusion indicates that the KR brane may be emergent from the boundary CFT2 via the Weyl transformations.

We also calculate the balanced partial entanglement (BPE) in the fluctuating brane configurations and find it coincide with the entanglement wedge cross-section (EWCS). This is a non-trivial test for the correspondence between the BPE and the EWCS, and a non-trivial consistency check for the Weyl transformed CFT set-up.
Chiral algebra from worldsheet
Authors: Li Wei
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The chiral algebra of a 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
≥ 2 superconformal field theory is a vertex operator algebra generated by the Schur subsector of the 4D theory and its rigid (yet rich) structure has been useful in constraining and classifying 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SCFTs. We study how the chiral algebra arises from the worldsheet perspective. In the worldsheet CFT dual of 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM at the free point, we extract the subsector that corresponds to the spacetime Schur operators at generic coupling, and show how they generate the chiral algebra. The result can be easily generalized to 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal field theories that arise as orbifolds of 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM.
Riemann-Hilbert problems, Toeplitz operators and ergosurfaces
Authors: Câmara M. Cristina , Cardoso Gabriel Lopes
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Riemann-Hilbert approach, in conjunction with the canonical Wiener-Hopf factorisation of certain matrix functions called monodromy matrices, enables one to obtain explicit solutions to the non-linear field equations of some gravitational theories. These solutions are encoded in the elements of a matrix M depending on the Weyl coordinates ρ and v, determined by that factorisation. We address here, for the first time, the underlying question of what happens when a canonical Wiener-Hopf factorisation does not exist, using the close connection of Wiener-Hopf factorisation with Toeplitz operators to study this question. For the case of rational monodromy matrices, we prove that the non-existence of a canonical Wiener-Hopf factorisation determines curves in the (ρ, v) plane on which some elements of M(ρ, v) tend to infinity, but where the space-time metric may still be well behaved. In the case of uncharged rotating black holes in four space-time dimensions and, for certain choices of coordinates, in five space-time dimensions, we show that these curves correspond to their ergosurfaces.
Ward identities for superamplitudes
Authors: Kallosh Renata
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We introduce Ward identities for superamplitudes in D-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
-extended supergravities. These identities help to clarify the relation between linearized superinvariants and superamplitudes. The solutions of these Ward identities for an n-partice superamplitude take a simple universal form for half BPS and non-BPS amplitudes. These solutions involve arbitrary functions of spinor helicity and Grassmann variables for each of the n superparticles. The dimension of these functions at a given loop order is exactly the same as the dimension of the relevant superspace Lagrangians depending on half-BPS or non-BPS superfields, given by (D − 2)L + 2 − $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
or (D − 2)L + 2 − $$ 2\mathcal{N} $$
2
N
, respectively. This explains why soft limits predictions from superamplitudes and from superspace linearized superinvariants agree.
Reversibles zerebrales Vasokonstriktionssyndrom
Authors: Binaghi Enrico , Eube Nadine , Wegener Susanne , Schmick Anton
Published: June 2024

Das reversible zerebrale Vasokonstriktionssyndrom (RCVS) ist eine komplexe und ätiologisch vielfältige neurovaskuläre Erkrankung, die typischerweise mit Donnerschlagkopfschmerz („thunderclap headache“, TCH) als Hauptkriterium sowie einer reversiblen sekundären Vasokonstriktion der Hirnarterien einhergeht. Das RCVS kann mit oder ohne fokal-neurologische Defizite oder epileptische Anfälle verlaufen. Man unterscheidet zwischen einem idiopathischen RCVS und einem sekundären RCVS, welches durch verschiedene Substanzen, medizinische Eingriffe oder Erkrankungen ausgelöst wird. Den ersten Kontakt mit dieser Erkrankung haben in der täglichen Praxis verschiedene Spezialisten; die richtige Erkennung und Diagnose von RCVS bleiben weiterhin eine Herausforderung. Der klinische Verlauf ist in der Regel monophasisch und selbstlimitierend, wobei Rezidive lediglich in 1,7 % der Fälle pro Jahr auftreten. Komplikationen wie Hirnblutungen und zerebrale Ischämien führen in 5–10 % der Fälle zum Tod. In dieser Arbeit wird ein Fallbeispiel verwendet, um das RCVS und seine Komplikationen vorzustellen sowie die diagnostischen Verfahren zu erläutern.
Improvement of the test sample arrangements according to IEC 60243: Electrical strength of insulating materials: test methods
Authors: Wels Sebastian , Fehmer Felix , Raulf Tobias , Claudi Albert , Boettge Bianca , Klengel Sandy
Published: June 2024

This publication deals with the dielectric breakdown performance of plastics and the problems which occur if the corresponding standard IEC 60243-1 is applied. In the first step, the test materials and the methods were described, followed by the problems, which occur with the specimen according to the standard. In a final step, a solution (specimen) for the problem is developed and evaluated with an exemplary investigation.
Chronic Caffeine Consumption, Alone or Combined with Agomelatine or Quetiapine, Reduces the Maximum EEG Peak, As Linked to Cortical Neurodegeneration, Ovarian Estrogen Receptor Alpha, and Melatonin Receptor 2
Authors: Abdelmissih Sherine , Hosny Sara Adel , Elwi Heba M. , Sayed Walaa Mohamed , Eshra Mohamed Ali , Shaker Olfat Gamil , Samir Nancy F.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Evidence of the effects of chronic caffeine (CAFF)-containing beverages, alone or in combination with agomelatine (AGO) or quetiapine (QUET), on electroencephalography (EEG), which is relevant to cognition, epileptogenesis, and ovarian function, remains lacking. Estrogenic, adenosinergic, and melatonergic signaling is possibly linked to the dynamics of these substances.

Objectives

The brain and ovarian effects of CAFF were compared with those of AGO + CAFF and QUET + CAFF. The implications of estrogenic, adenosinergic, and melatonergic signaling and the brain-ovarian crosstalk were investigated.

Methods

Adult female rats were administered AGO (10 mg/kg), QUET (10 mg/kg), CAFF, AGO + CAFF, or QUET + CAFF, once daily for 8 weeks. EEG, estrous cycle progression, and microstructure of the brain and ovaries were examined. Brain and ovarian 17β-estradiol (E2), antimullerian hormone (AMH), estrogen receptor alpha (E2Rα), adenosine receptor 2A (A2AR), and melatonin receptor 2 (MT2R) were assessed.

Results

CAFF, alone or combined with AGO or QUET, reduced the maximum EEG peak, which was positively linked to ovarian E2Rα, negatively correlated to cortical neurodegeneration and ovarian MT2R, and associated with cystic ovaries. A large corpus luteum emerged with AGO + CAFF and QUET + CAFF, antagonizing the CAFF-mediated increased ovarian A2AR and reduced cortical E2Rα. AGO + CAFF provoked TTP delay and increased ovarian AMH, while QUET + CAFF slowed source EEG frequency to δ range and increased brain E2.

Conclusions

CAFF treatment triggered brain and ovarian derangements partially antagonized with concurrent AGO or QUET administration but with no overt affection of estrus cycle progression. Estrogenic, adenosinergic, and melatonergic signaling and brain-ovarian crosstalk may explain these effects.
Diversity study of Beauveria bassiana species for finding the most virulent strain to manage Bemisia tabaci in cotton
Authors: Sain Satish Kumar , Kranthi Sandhya , Kranthi Keshav Raj , Monga Dilip , Paul Debashis , Prasad Yenumula G.
Published: June 2024

Beauveria bassiana (Bal.-Criv.) is an important entomopathogenic fungus being used for the management of various agricultural pests worldwide. However, all strains of B. bassiana may not be effective against whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, or other pests, and strains show diversity in their growth, sporulation, virulence features, and overall bioefficacy. Thus, to select the most effective strain, a comprehensive way needs to be devised. We studied the diversity among the 102 strains of B. bassiana isolated from 19 insect species based on their physiological features, virulence, and molecular phylogeny, to identify promising ones for the management of B. tabaci. Strains showed diversity in mycelial growth, conidial production, and their virulence against B. tabaci nymphs. The highest nymphal mortality (2nd and 3rd instar) was recorded with MTCC-4511 (95.1%), MTCC-6289 (93.8%), and MTCC-4565 (89.9%) at a concentration of 1 × 106 conidia ml−1 under polyhouse conditions. The highest bioefficacy index (BI) was in MTCC-4511 (78.3%), MTCC-4565 (68.2%), and MTCC-4543 (62.1%). MTCC-4511, MTCC-4565, and MTCC-4543 clustered with positive loading of eigenvalues for the first two principal components and the cluster analysis also corresponded well with PCA (principal component analysis) (nymphal mortality and BI). The molecular phylogeny could not draw any distinct relationship between physiological features, the virulence of B. bassiana strains with the host and location. The BI, PCA, and square Euclidean distance cluster were found the most useful tools for selecting potential entomopathogenic strains. The selected strains could be utilized for the management of the B. tabaci nymphal population in the field through the development of effective formulations.

Key points

• 102 B. bassiana strains showed diversity in growth and virulence against B. tabaci.

• Bioefficacy index, PCA, and SED group are efficient tools for selecting potential strains.

• MTCC-4511, 4565, and 4543 chosen as the most virulent strains to kill whitefly nymphs.
Evaluation of Nipple–Areola Circulation in Central Pedicle Mastopexy Patients with Subpectoral Implant Placement: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Tutak Fatma Nilay , Balık Ozan , Bulbuloglu Semra
Published: June 2024

Objective

Mastopexy is a procedure which is used in breast lift and reconstruction surgery and requires a small amount of parenchymal resection. In this procedure, the preservation of nipple–areola circulation is vital. The purpose of this study is to evaluate nipple–areola circulation in patients undergoing central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement.

Material and Method

In this observational quasi-experimental study, data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical records. The perioperative nipple–areola circulation of patients undergoing central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement was evaluated by integrated laser Doppler flowmetry. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey’s range tests were used to analyze the data.

Results

The preoperative, skin dissection, pectoral elevation, implant placement, 24th hour, and 2nd week nipple–areola circulation statuses of each patient who underwent central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement were examined using an integrated laser Doppler flowmeter, and the results were compared. At each stage, all measurements were in the range of 1.8–3.6 ml/min/100g. There was no statistically significant difference between the measurement results.

Conclusion

Central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement seems highly advantageous in terms of better functionality and aesthetics in the reconstruction of heavy and sagging breasts.

No Level Assigned

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Anatomical and clinical factors associated with infrapopliteal arterial bypass outcomes in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia
Authors: Haga Makoto , Shindo Shunya , Nitta Jun , Kimura Mitsuhiro , Motohashi Shinya , Inoue Hidenori , Akasaka Junetsu
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to identify anatomical and clinical factors associated with limb-based patency (LBP) loss, major adverse limb events (MALEs), and poor amputation-free survival (AFS) after an infrapopliteal arterial bypass (IAB) surgery according to the Global Limb Anatomic Staging System. A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing IAB surgery between January 2010 and December 2021 at a single institution was performed. Two-year AFS, freedom from LBP loss, and freedom from MALEs were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Anatomical and clinical predictors were assessed using multivariate analysis. The total number of risk factors was used to calculate risk scores for subsequent categorization into low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups. IABs were performed on 103 patients. The rates of two-year freedom from LBP loss, freedom from MALEs, and AFS were 71.3%, 76.1%, and 77.0%, respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that poor run-off beyond the ankle and a bypass vein caliber of < 3 mm were significantly associated with LBP loss and MALEs. Moreover, end-stage renal disease, non-ambulatory status, and a body mass index of < 18.5 were significantly associated with poor AFS. The rates of freedom from LBP loss and MALEs and the AFS rate were significantly lower in the high-risk group than in the other two groups (12-month low-risk rates: 92.2%, 94.8%, and 94.4%, respectively; 12-month moderate-risk rates: 58.6%, 84.6%, and 78.3%, respectively; 12-month high-risk rates: 11.1%, 17.6%, and 56.2%, respectively; p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). IAB is associated with poor clinical outcomes in terms of LBP, MALEs, and AFS in high-risk patients. Risk stratification based on these predictors is useful for long-term prognosis.
Addressing muscle–tendon imbalances in adult male athletes with personalized exercise prescription based on tendon strain
Authors: Weidlich Kolja , Domroes Theresa , Bohm Sebastian , Arampatzis Adamantios , Mersmann Falk
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Imbalances of muscle strength and tendon stiffness can increase the operating strain of tendons and risk of injury. Here, we used a new approach to identify muscle–tendon imbalances and personalize exercise prescription based on tendon strain during maximum voluntary contractions (εmax) to mitigate musculotendinous imbalances in male adult volleyball athletes.

Methods

Four times over a season, we measured knee extensor strength and patellar tendon mechanical properties using dynamometry and ultrasonography. Tendon micromorphology was evaluated through an ultrasound peak spatial frequency (PSF) analysis. While a control group (n = 12) continued their regular training, an intervention group (n = 10) performed exercises (3 × /week) with personalized loads to elicit tendon strains that promote tendon adaptation (i.e., 4.5–6.5%).

Results

Based on a linear mixed model, εmax increased significantly in the control group over the 9 months of observation (pCon = 0.010), while there was no systematic change in the intervention group (pInt = 0.575). The model residuals of εmax, as a measure of imbalances in muscle–tendon adaptation, demonstrated a significant reduction over time exclusively in the intervention group (pInt = 0.007). While knee extensor muscle strength increased in both groups by ~ 8% (pCon < 0.001, pInt = 0.064), only the intervention group showed a trend toward increased normalized tendon stiffness (pCon = 0.824, pInt = 0.051). PSF values did not change significantly in either group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

These results suggest that personalized exercise prescription can reduce muscle–tendon imbalances in athletes and could provide new opportunities for tendon injury prevention.
LncRNA HOXC-AS3 accelerates malignant proliferation of cervical cancer cells via stabilizing KDM5B
Authors: Li Jie , Hou Fang , Teng Zhenghua , Xia Weiwei , Peng Jie
Published: June 2024

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a common malignancy amongst women globally. Ubiquitination plays a dual role in the occurrence and development of cancers. This study analyzed the mechanism of long noncoding RNA HOXC cluster antisense RNA 3 (lncRNA HOXC-AS3) in malignant proliferation of CC cells via mediating ubiquitination of lysine demethylase 5B (KDM5B/JARID1B).

Methods

The expression patterns of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 and KDM5B were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction or Western blot analysis. After transfection with lncRNA HOXC-AS3 siRNA and pcDNA3.1-KDM5B, proliferation of CC cells was assessed by the cell counting kit-8, colony formation, and 5-Ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine staining assays. The xenograft tumor model was established to confirm the impact of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 on CC cell proliferation in vivo by measuring tumor size and weight and the immunohistochemistry assay. The subcellular location of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 and the binding of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 to KDM5B were analyzed. After treatment of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 siRNA or MG132, the protein and ubiquitination levels of KDM5B were determined. Thereafter, the interaction and the subcellular co-location of tripartite motif-containing 37 (TRIM37) and KDM5B were analyzed by the co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays.

Results

LncRNA HOXC-AS3 and KDM5B were upregulated in CC tissues and cells. Depletion of lncRNA HOXC-AS3 repressed CC cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth. Mechanically, lncRNA HOXC-AS3 located in the nucleus directly bound to KDM5B, inhibited TRIM37-mediated ubiquitination of KDM5B, and upregulated the protein levels of KDM5B. KDM5B overexpression attenuated the inhibitory role of silencing lncRNA HOXC-AS3 in CC cell proliferation in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

Nucleus-located lncRNA HOXC-AS3 facilitated malignant proliferation of CC cells via stabilization of KDM5B protein levels.
The role of specialist palliative care in individuals “living beyond cancer”: a narrative review of the literature
Authors: Taylor Amy , Davies Andrew
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Many patients living beyond cancer experience significant unmet needs, although few of these patients are currently reviewed by specialist palliative care teams (SPCTs). The aim of this narrative review was to explore the current and potential role of SPCTs in this cohort of patients.

Methods

A search strategy was developed for Medline, and adapted for Embase, CINAHL, and PsycInfo. Additionally, websites of leading oncology, cancer survivorship, and specialist palliative care organisations were examined. The focus of the search was on individuals living beyond cancer rather than other groups of cancer survivors.

Results

111 articles were retrieved from the search for full text review, and 101 other sources of information were identified after hand searching the reference lists of the full text articles, and the aforesaid websites. The themes of the review encompass the definition of palliative care/specialist palliative care, current models of specialist palliative care, core activities of SPCTs, relevant expertise of SPCTs, and potential barriers to change in relation to extending their support and expertise to individuals living beyond cancer. The review identified a paucity of evidence to support the role of SPCTs in the management of patients living beyond cancer.

Conclusions

Individuals living beyond cancer have many unmet needs, and specific services are required to manage these problems. Currently, there is limited evidence to support the role of specialist palliative care teams in the management of this cohort of people, and several potential barriers to greater involvement, including limited resources, and lack of relevant expertise.