bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study on calculation methods for compressive strength of low strength aggregate concrete
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Jie , Liu Wei , Wu Xingzheng , Li Huiyun , Yan Yujie
Published: June 2024

The compressive strength of concrete with low strength aggregate volume fractions of 10%, 20%, and 30% was calculated using both the graphical analysis method and mesomechanics method. In the calculation method based on graphical analysis, three-dimensional random spherical aggregate models of concrete with different volume contents of low strength aggregate were established and sliced. The results show that the graphical analysis method can effectively calculate the compressive strength of concrete with different volume contents of low strength aggregate. In the graphical analysis method, the relative errors of the calculated compressive strength of concrete with low strength aggregate volume fractions of 10%, 20%, and 30% were 4.84%, 4.84%, and 6.43%, respectively. Three-phase concrete models composed of mortar, aggregate, and interfacial transition zone were analyzed through the method of mesomechanics. The calculation results of the mesomechanics method show that the compressive strength of concrete was controlled by low strength aggregate, and the calculated compressive strength of concrete decreased with the increase in low strength aggregate volume content. In the mesomechanics method, the relative errors of the calculated compressive strength of concrete with low strength aggregate volume fractions of 10%, 20%, and 30% were 1.36%, 1.74%, and 3.7%, respectively. It can be found that the calculation results of the mesomechanics method are closer to the test values and have smaller relative errors, which indicate that the calculation method of mesomechanics theory is superior to the method of graphical analysis.
Time-division multiplexing wireless light communication network
Authors: Wu Wenxuan , Fu Kang , Fu Jianwei , Liu Pengzhan , Cheng Xinli , Wang Yongjin
Published: June 2024

Owing to emission-detection spectral overlap, a quantum well (QW) diode can detect shorter-wavelength photons emitted from another diode sharing the same QW active region. Therefore, a wireless light communication system can be established by using identical QW diodes that function separately as transmitters and receivers. Here, we investigate the irreversibility between light emission and detection of the QW diode and present a time-division multiplexing (TDM) visible light communication (VLC) network using five identical blue QW diodes that are defined by software as transmitters or receivers to achieve real-time TDM-integrated interconnection via the same optical paths. These results indicate the great potential of realizing an advanced TDM VLC network for diverse applications.
Research on the multiphase flow interference and motion characteristics of vehicles during an underwater salvo
Authors: Gao Shan , Shi Yao , Zhang Shuai , Huang Qiaogao , Pan Guang
Published: June 2024

A cavitation flow can greatly impact a vehicle's attitude and stability when leaving water. This paper adopts an improved delayed detached eddy turbulence model and Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model as well as the volume-of-fluid method and an overlapping grid technique to investigate this effect. The simulation method used for the cavitation model is validated. The interference effects of a transient multiphase flow, collapse loads, and the motion instability of vehicles during an underwater salvo are studied. The results show multiple obvious pressure peaks during the process of cavity collapse, which do not overlap significantly. Instead, they are sequentially arranged from the top to the end of the bubble, and the synchronous collapse pressure peak is much stronger than the other pressure peaks. The synchronous collapse pressure has a high peak and a short pulse width, and its action position is at the bottom of the shoulder cavity. The salvo time interval is zero, the launch depth is equal to the length of the vehicle, the initial cavitation number is 0.233, and the lateral launch spacing is varied from 2 times the diameter to 5 times the diameter. When the lateral spacing is in the range of 4 times the diameter to 5 times the diameter, the effect of flow interference on the underwater travel and water exit stages disappears.
Vibrio
MARTX toxin processing and degradation of cellular Rab GTPases by the cytotoxic effector Makes Caterpillars Floppy
Authors: Herrera Alfa , Packer Megan M. , Rosas-Lemus Monica , Minasov George , Chen Jiexi , Brumell John H. , Satchell Karla J. F.
Published: June 2024

Vibrio vulnificus
causes life-threatening wound and gastrointestinal infections, mediated primarily by the production of a Multifunctional-Autoprocessing Repeats-In-Toxin (MARTX) toxin. The most commonly present MARTX effector domain, the Makes Caterpillars Floppy-like (MCF) toxin, is a cysteine protease stimulated by host adenosine diphosphate (ADP) ribosylation factors (ARFs) to autoprocess. Here, we show processed MCF then binds and cleaves host
Ra
s-related proteins in
b
rain (Rab) guanosine triphosphatases within their C-terminal tails resulting in Rab degradation. We demonstrate MCF binds Rabs at the same interface occupied by ARFs. Moreover, we show MCF preferentially binds to ARF1 prior to autoprocessing and is active to cleave Rabs only subsequent to autoprocessing. We then use structure prediction algorithms to demonstrate that structural composition, rather than sequence, determines Rab target specificity. We further determine a crystal structure of aMCF as a swapped dimer, revealing an alternative conformation we suggest represents the open, activated state of MCF with reorganized active site residues. The cleavage of Rabs results in Rab1B dispersal within cells and loss of Rab1B density in the intestinal tissue of infected mice. Collectively, our work describes an extracellular bacterial mechanism whereby MCF is activated by ARFs and subsequently induces the degradation of another small host guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase), Rabs, to drive organelle damage, cell death, and promote pathogenesis of these rapidly fatal infections.
Absolute income mobility obscures marginalized children’s disadvantages
Authors: Bloome Deirdre , Opacic Aleksei
Published: June 2024

Intergenerational mobility captures the distance between the socioeconomic positions of parents versus their adult children. Researchers measure this distance in absolute and relative units, such as absolute dollars and relative ranks. Absolute and relative mobility often diverge. For example, absolute mobility can rise while relative mobility declines. How should scholars and policymakers understand this divergence? We conclude that they should understand it as follows: absolute mobility is less reflective than relative mobility of marginalized children’s socioeconomic disadvantages. We base this conclusion on analyses of survey, administrative, and simulated data on income mobility in the contemporary United States. We analyze multiple points of difference in mobility, which facilitates the recognition of several asymmetries. First, high-income children’s experiences weigh more heavily in absolute-mobility trends than low-income children’s experiences, particularly when economic growth is positive. Second, this asymmetry is more characteristic of absolute- than relative-mobility trends. Third, absolute-mobility differences across demographic groups are more prone than relative-mobility differences to obscure marginalized groups’ socioeconomic disadvantages. These asymmetries have policy implications: We caution that focusing on absolute mobility as a policy target can divert attention away from society’s most disadvantaged children.
Social identity construction in expert-lay dialogue on Facebook
Authors: Tereszkiewicz Anna
Published: June 2024

The paper focuses on identity construction on the Facebook profiles of medical professionals. Drawing on existing
conceptualisations of identity and proximity, the study explores how five Polish medical experts construct their social identity
and create affinity spaces in their interaction with an audience. The analysis shows that affinity spaces are established through
the reduction of social distance and epistemic asymmetry between the professionals and their audience. Increasing emotional
proximity and stressing the proximity of experience between the interlocutors also contributes to the creation of affinity.
Affinity spaces are co-constructed in dialogue with the profile visitors through e.g. deictic resources indicating proximity,
personal stories, recontextualisation of medical concepts, expressiveness, and the stressing of commonalities between the
orthopaedic surgeons and their followers.
Viral peer advice
Authors: Stvan Laurel Smith
Published: June 2024

By examining a collection of health-related memes, I propose ways to categorize the illocutionary force of memes
functioning as the speech act of advice. 200 English-language memes were gathered in the period 2018–2023 through Google image
searches. I found the affiliative and disaffiliative strategies that Placencia (2012)
described within Yahoo! Respuestas advice exchanges; meme multimodality, however, offered additional versions of
these strategies: characters generated affiliation or disaffiliation and more humor appeared in affiliative and disaffiliative
moves. I highlight four characteristics of advising in memes: the speech act is performed indirectly; both characters and wordplay
can create humor; peer advisors must signal what authorizes them to give advice; and advice deploys mythbusting. Thus, memes align
interlocutors within vernacular online conversations.
Mexican fruit fly, Anastrepha ludens (Loew)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

The Mexican fruit fly (Anastrepha ludens) is a major pest of mango and citrus, causing significant damage through larval tunneling and fruit rotting. Native to Central America, it has also been found in the southern USA and poses a potential threat to the Mediterranean region. Classical biological control efforts began in the 1950s with the introduction of various parasitoids, though only Diachasmimorpha longicaudata and Aceratoneuromyia indica established successfully. Diachasmimorpha longicaudata remains the most effective, achieving up to 33% parasitism in augmentative releases. Other promising natural enemies include Doryctobracon crawfordi and Coptera haywardii, both native to the Neotropics. Numerous other parasitoids and predators, such as ants and spiders, contribute to A. ludens control, but their specific impacts and potential for biological control programs require further study.
Pepper weevil, Anthonomus eugenii (Cano)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

Anthonomus eugenii, or the pepper weevil, is a significant pest of Capsicum spp., causing major yield losses by destroying blossom buds and immature fruits. Native to Mexico, it has spread to Central America, the Caribbean, French Polynesia and Hawaii, USA. The weevil also affects other Solanaceae, including aubergines and some wild Solanum species. Economic impacts are severe, with up to 100% crop loss reported in some areas. In North America, greenhouse outbreaks have occurred, including one in British Columbia (Canada) and another in the Netherlands, both successfully eradicated. There has been no classical biological control implemented against A. eugenii. However, several hymenopteran parasitoids are promising candidates. Catolaccus hunteri, Triaspis eugenii and Urosigalphus sp. are notable for their effectiveness, with T. eugenii showing parasitism rates of 18-40%. Other associated parasitoids in Mexico include Bracon mellitor, Euderus sp. and Eupelmus sp., among others, highlighting potential biological control options for future management strategies.
Red necked longicorn, Aromia bungii (Faldermann)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

The red necked longicorn (RNL), Aromia bungii (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), originates from eastern Asia and has become an invasive pest in Japan, Germany and Italy. Predominantly attacking stone fruit trees (Prunus spp.), RNL larvae tunnel within the cambium layer, disrupting sap flow and potentially killing the host tree. The pest poses a significant threat to both fruit production and wood production. It is considered a quarantine species in Europe, capable of spreading through wood products and plants for planting. There has been no classical biological control implemented against RNL. However, potential natural enemies include the generalist parasitoids Sclerodermus guani and Sclerodermus harmandi (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae). S. guani has shown a parasitism rate of 43% in laboratory studies and has been used in China for controlling forest pests. Other potential natural enemies include generalist predators and parasitoids, such as Dastarcus helophoroides (Coleoptera: Bothrideridae), which has been used in combination with entomopathogenic nematodes for biological control in China, and species of Braconidae and Ichneumonidae. Despite their potential, the broad host range of these natural enemies raises concerns about non-target effects.
The potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Å ulc)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

Bactericera cockerelli, a psyllid, is a major agricultural pest affecting potatoes, tomatoes and other crops through feeding damage and transmission of the bacterial pathogen Liberibacter solanacearum, which causes zebra chip disease. This pest, originating from the Western USA, Mexico and Central America, poses a threat in its native regions and in New Zealand where it has been introduced. Given the current distribution, B. cockerelli could establish itself in Southern and Central Europe and areas with mild winters in Northern Europe. Tamarixia triozae, a parasitoid wasp, has shown promise as a biological control agent, with established populations in New Zealand achieving up to 40% parasitism rates. T. triozae prefers fourth and fifth instar nymphs of B. cockerelli and has high reproductive potential, although it requires carbohydrate sources, such as nectar for optimal reproduction. Sensitivity to insecticides and the timing of parasitism may limit its effectiveness in some scenarios. Other natural enemies, including generalist predators, could also be explored for classical biological control in regions lacking these natural predators.
Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica (Newman)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is an invasive pest native to Japan and the Russian Far East, causing significant damage to various plants in eastern North America and more recently in Northern Italy. Its extensive host range includes over 300 ornamental and agricultural plants. Classical biological control efforts in the USA (1920-1933) led to the establishment of five parasitoids, notably Tiphia vernalis and Istocheta aldrichi, though they are not fully effective. Tiphia vernalis parasitizes larvae in spring, while Tiphia popilliavora, less successful in the USA, targets larvae in autumn. Istocheta aldrichi, a tachinid fly, shows high parasitism rates in Japan but has synchronization issues in the USA. In colder regions of North America, parasitism rates by I. aldrichi are increasing. Other potential biological control agents include the bacterium Paenibacillus popilliae, causing milky disease, which may be used in areas where it is absent. Further investigation into these agents is warranted to manage Japanese beetle populations effectively in newly invaded areas.
Oak processionary moth, Thaumetopoea processionea (L.)
Authors:   Fera Science, Audsley Neil , Avila Gonzalo ,   Plant & Food Research, Ioratti Claudio ,   Fondazione Edmund Mach, Caron Valerie ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Ferracini Chiara ,   Università di Torino, Bukovinszki Tibor ,   Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, Kenis Marc ,   CABI, Milonas Panagiotis ,   Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Herz Annette ,   Julius Kühn-Institut, Trdan Stanislav ,   University of Ljubljana, Fatu Ana-Christina ,   Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, Sabbatini-Peverieri Giuseppino ,   Agricultural Research Council South Africa, Lesieur Vincent ,   CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, Borowiec Nicolas ,   Institut Sophia Agrobiotech, Collatz Jana ,   Agroscope, Tanner Rob ,   European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, McGee Conor ,   Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Ireland
Published: June 2024

The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea processionea>) is native to Central and Southern Europe and has been spreading to Northern Europe, including Southern England since 2006. The larvae feed on various oak species (Quercus spp.), contributing to oak decline and causing significant health issues for humans and pets due to their urticating hairs. There is no history of classical biological control for this pest, but several promising natural enemies exist. The most promising natural enemies include the larval parasitoids Carcelia iliaca and Pales processioneae, which are specific to Thaumetopoea spp. and have been dominant in Germany and the Netherlands, with C. iliaca also found in invasive UK populations. The egg parasitoid Ooencyrtus masii is noted in Italy but seems less significant than other polyphagous species, such as Anastatus bifasciatus and Trichogramma spp. Pimpla processioneae and other Pimpla species are frequently found parasitizing pupae, with P. processioneae being the most specific. Other natural enemies such as A. bifasciatus, the larval parasitoid Meteorus versicolor, and various tachinid parasitoids are abundant but too polyphagous for classical biological control programs.
Tightly coupled visual-inertial fusion with image enhancement for robust positioning
Authors: Fu Zhumu , Shi Yongzhe , Si Pengju , Gao Song , Yang Yi
Published: June 2024

Traditional vision-based inertial odometry suffers from significant visual degradation, which substantially impacts state estimation in challenging lighting environments. Thermal imaging cameras capture images based on the thermal radiation of objects, rendering them impervious to lighting variations. However, integrating thermal infrared data into conventional visual odometry poses challenges due to its low texture, poor contrast, and high noise levels. In this paper, we propose a tightly coupled approach that seamlessly integrates information from visible light cameras, thermal imaging cameras, and inertial measurement units. First, we employ adaptive bilateral filtering and Sobel gradient enhancement to smooth infrared images, thereby reducing noise and enhancing edge contrast. Second, we leverage the Sage-Husa adaptive filter in conjunction with iterative Kalman filtering (IEKF) to effectively mitigate the impact of non-Gaussian noise on the system. Finally, we conduct comprehensive evaluations of the proposed system using both open datasets and real-world experiments across four distinct scenarios: normal lighting, low-light conditions, low-light conditions with camera shake, and challenging lighting environments. Comparative analysis reveals that our method outperforms IEKF, yielding a reduction in localization error measured by root mean square error by 58.69%, 57.24%, 60.23%, and 30.87% in these respective scenarios.
Trajectory planning for AGV based on the improved artificial potential field- A* algorithm
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Linfeng , Wang Rongjun , Wan Yidong
Published: June 2024

There are many redundant nodes and inflection points in the path planned by the traditional A* algorithm, leading to the inefficient trajectory planning of the automatic guided vehicle (AGV) in the multi-static obstacles environment. The artificial potential field (APF) algorithm suffers from the problem of unreachable objectives and falling into optimal local value. This article studies the trajectory optimization of AGVs to improve the trajectory planning algorithm’s iteration efficiency and shorten the trajectory’s total length. This article establishes the forward kinematic and unified robot description format model of the AGV and proposes the APF-A* algorithm for trajectory planning. The search cost and the number of turns are effectively optimized. The article simulates the APF-A* algorithm, the results are compared with the trajectory before optimization, and the optimized time is 60% less than that before optimization. The experimental platform of AGV trajectory planning is built, and the algorithm verification experiment of AGV trajectory planning is carried out. The experimental results show that the algorithm studied in this article achieves path smoothing and trajectory length optimization.
Investigation of intra-fractionated range guided adaptive proton therapy (RGAPT): II. Range-shift compensated on-line treatment adaptation and verification
Authors: Chen Mingli , Yang Dongxu , Zhu Xiaorong R , Ma Lin , Grosshans David R , Shao Yiping , Lu Weiguo
Published: June 2024

We previously proposed range-guided adaptive proton therapy (RGAPT) that uses mid-range treatment beams as probing beams and intra-fractionated range measurements for online adaptation. In this work, we demonstrated experimental verification and reported the dosimetric accuracy for RGAPT. A STEEV phantom was used for the experiments, and a 3 × 3 × 3 cm3 cube inside the phantom was assigned to be the treatment target. We simulated three online range shift scenarios: reference, overshoot, and undershoot, by placing upstream Lucite sheets, 4, 0, and 8 that corresponded to changes of 0, 6.8, and −6.8 mm, respectively, in water-equivalent path length. The reference treatment plan was to deliver single-field uniform target doses in pencil beam scanning mode and generated on the Eclipse treatment planning system. Different numbers of mid-range layers, including single, three, and five layers, were selected as probing beams to evaluate beam range (BR) measurement accuracy in positron emission tomography (PET). Online plans were modified to adapt to BR shifts and compensate for probing beam doses. In contrast, non-adaptive plans were also delivered and compared to adaptive plans by film measurements. The mid-range probing beams of three (5.55MU) and five layers (8.71MU) yielded accurate range shift measurements in 60 s of PET acquisition with uncertainty of 0.5 mm while the single-layer probing (1.65MU) was not sufficient for measurements. The adaptive plans achieved an average gamma (2%/2 mm) passing rate of 95%. In contrast, the non-adaptive plans only had an average passing rate of 69%. RGAPT planning and delivery are feasible and verified by the experiments. The probing beam delivery, range measurements, and adaptive planning and delivery added a small increase in treatment delivery workflow time but resulted in substantial dose improvement. The three-layer mid-range probing was most suitable considering the balance of high range measurement accuracy and the low number of probing beam layers.
Collapsing domain wall networks: impact on pulsar timing arrays and primordial black holes
Authors: Ferreira Ricardo Z. , Notari Alessio , Pujolàs Oriol , Rompineve Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Unstable domain wall (DW) networks in the early universe are cosmologically viable and can emit a large amount of gravitational waves (GW) before annihilating. As such, they provide an interpretation for the recent signal reported by Pulsar Timing Array (PTA) collaborations. A related important question is whether such a scenario also leads to significant production of Primordial Black Holes (PBH).
We investigate both GW and PBH production using 3D numerical simulations in an expanding background, with box sizes up to N = 3240,
including the annihilation phase. We find that:
i) the network decays exponentially, i.e. the false vacuum volume drops as ∼ exp(-η
3), with η the conformal time;
ii) the GW spectrum is larger than traditional estimates by more than one order of magnitude, due to a delay between DW annihilation and the sourcing of GWs. We then present a novel semi-analytical method to estimate the PBH abundances: rare false vacuum pockets of super-Hubble size collapse to PBHs if their energy density becomes comparable to the background when they cross the Hubble scale. Smaller (but more abundant) pockets will instead collapse only if they are close to spherical. This introduces very large uncertainties in the final PBH abundance. The first phenomenological implication is that the DW interpretation of the PTA signal is compatible with observational constraints on PBHs, within the uncertainties. Second, in a different parameter region, the dark matter can be entirely in the form of asteroid-mass PBHs from the DW collapse. Remarkably, this would also lead to a GW background in the observable range of LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA and future interferometers, such as LISA and Einstein Telescope.
Efficient fidelity estimation: alternative derivation and related applications
Authors: Starke Diego S , Basso Marcos L W , Maziero Jonas
Published: June 2024

In [Phys. Rev. A
107 012427 (2023)], Baldwin and Jones prove that Uhlmann–Jozsa’s fidelity between two quantum states ρ and σ, i.e.,

F
(
ρ
,
σ
)

≔

Tr

ρ

σ

ρ

2

, can be written in a simplified form as

F
(
ρ
,
σ
)
=

Tr

ρ
σ

2

. In this article, we give an alternative proof of this result, using a function power series expansion and the properties of the trace function. Our approach not only reinforces the validity of the simplified expression but also facilitates the exploration of novel dissimilarity functions for quantum states and more complex trace functions of density operators.
Modeling of plasma facing component erosion, impurity migration, dust transport and melting processes at JET-ILW
Authors: Borodkina I. , Borodin D.V. , Douai D. , Romazanov J. , Pawelec E. , de la Cal E. , Kumpulainen H. , Ratynskaia S. , Vignitchouk L. , Tskhakaya D. , Kirschner A. , Lazzaro E. , Uccello A. , Brezinsek S. , Dittmar T. , Groth M. , Huber A. , Thoren E. , Gervasini G. , Ghezzi F. , Causa F. , Widdowson A. , Lawson K. , Matveev D. , Wiesen S. , Laguardia L. ,   JET Contributors
Published: June 2024

An overview of the modeling approaches, validation methods and recent main results of analysis and modeling activities related to the plasma-surface interaction (PSI) in JET-ILW experiments, including the recent H/D/T campaigns, is presented in this paper. Code applications to JET experiments improve general erosion/migration/retention prediction capabilities as well as various physics extensions, for instance a treatment of dust particles transport and a detailed description of melting and splashing of PFC induced by transient events at JET. 2D plasma edge transport codes like the SOLPS-ITER code as well as PSI codes are key to realistic description of relevant physical processes in power and particle exhaust. Validation of the PSI and edge transport models across JET experiments considering various effects (isotope effects, first wall geometry, including detailed 3D shaping of plasma-facing components, self-sputtering, thermo-forces, physical and chemically assisted physical sputtering formation of W and Be hydrides) is very important for predictive simulations of W and Be erosion and migration in ITER as well as for increasing quantitative credibility of the models. JET also presents a perfect test-bed for the investigation and modeling of melt material dynamics and its splashing and droplet ejection mechanisms. We attribute the second group of processes rather to transient events as for the steady state and, thus, treat those as independent additions outside the interplay with the first group.
High energy cooling
Authors: Lebedev Valeri
Published: June 2024

The paper considers methods of heavy particle cooling for
high energy colliders in the energy range of the RHIC-based
ep-collider. There are two major methods of the cooling — the
electron cooling and stochastic cooling. The latter can be
additionally separated on the microwave stochastic cooling, the
optical stochastic cooling (OSC) and the coherent electron cooling
(CEC). OSC and CEC are essentially extensions of microwave
stochastic cooling operating in 1–10 GHz frequency range to the
optical frequencies corresponding to 30–300 THz frequency
range. The OSC uses undulators as a pickup and a kicker, and an
optical amplifier for signal amplification, while the CEC uses an
electron beam for all these functions.
Particles with constant speed and random velocity in 3+1 space-time: separation of the space variables
Authors: Serva Maurizio
Published: June 2024

We consider a particle in 3+1 space-time dimensions which constantly moves at speed of light c, randomly changing its velocity which can be represented by a point on the surface of a sphere of radius c. The velocity performs an isotropic Wiener process on this surface so that the velocity trajectories are almost everywhere continuous although not differentiable, while the position trajectories are continuous and differentiable. Together with the process that describes the particle in the ‘rest frame’, where the diffusion of velocity on the surface of the sphere is isotropic, the entire family of anisotropic processes which result from Lorentz boosts is also described. The focus of this article is on stochastic evolution in space. We identify a reduced set of variables whose stochastic evolution is autonomous from the remaining variables, but, nevertheless, carry all the relevant information concerning the spatial properties of the process. The associated stochastic equations as well the Forward Kolmogorov equation are considerably simplified compared to those of the complete set of position and velocity variables.
Exploring cooperative hunting dynamics and PRCC analysis: insights from a spatio-temporal mathematical model
Authors: Santra Nirapada , Saha Sangeeta , Samanta Guruprasad
Published: June 2024

The proposed mathematical model explores the intricate dynamics of a predator-prey system involving prey infection and cooperative hunting of predators. The model incorporates habitat complexity, emphasizing its influence on ecological interactions. The well-posedness of the system has rigorously been examined in a temporal setting and also conducted stability analysis. The bifurcation analysis reveals the existence of several local bifurcations on the system, namely transcritical bifurcation, saddle-node bifurcation, and Hopf bifurcation. Furthermore, these investigations delineate the two-dimensional bifurcations including Bogdanov–Takens and cusp bifurcations for different parametric combinations. With suitable choices of parameter values, the proposed model exhibits diverse dynamic phenomena, including bistable and tri-stable behavior. Latin hypercube sampling is utilized to conduct uncertainty analysis on input parameters, aiming to observe their effects on population dynamics. Subsequently, Kendall’s tau and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients are also computed to investigate the impact of these uncertainties on the population. In the later part, a spatio-temporal system is proposed with two-dimensional diffusion terms to obtain the conditions for Turing instability. Numerical simulations have been conducted to observe the emergence of spatial patterns and the impact of predator cooperation in these patterns. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of complex ecological systems, emphasizing the interplay of spatial and temporal factors in shaping population dynamics and predator-prey interactions.
A comprehensive review of atomically thin silicates and their applications
Authors: Mahapatra Preeti Lata , Costin Gelu , Galvao Douglas S , Lahiri Basudev , Glavin Nicholas , Roy Ajit K , Ajayan P M , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar
Published: June 2024

Silicate is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth’s crust and a sustainable source of two-dimensional (2D) complex oxides. In this review, we discuss the research progress of layered and non-layered 2D silicates, their comparison with conventional 2D materials, and a brief discussion on 2D silicate applications. The review begins with thoroughly examining synthesis strategies, emphasizing the various methods used to create layered and non-layered 2D silicates. The discussions then address the distinctive features of these materials, emphasizing their physicochemical characteristics. Furthermore, the review outlines recent breakthroughs in utilizing 2D silicates in electrical and memory devices, energy harvesting, energy storage, sensors, optoelectronics, water treatment, wound healing, cancer theranostics, bacterial ablation, fire retardancy, etc. By summarizing the most recent research findings in the field of 2D silicates and providing an overview of silicate evolution, this review intends to present a comprehensive resource for researchers interested in the diverse and fascinating area of 2D silicates.
Assessing the quality of random number generators through neural networks
Authors: Luis Crespo José , González-Villa Javier , Gutiérrez Jaime , Valle Angel
Published: June 2024

In this paper we address the use of Neural Networks (NNs) for the assessment of the quality and hence safety of several Random Number Generators (RNGs), focusing both on the vulnerability of classical Pseudo Random Number Generators (PRNGs), such as Linear Congruential Generators (LCGs) and the RC4 algorithm, and extending our analysis to non-conventional data sources, such as Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs) based on Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL). Among the results found, we have classified the generators based on the capability of the NN to distinguish between the RNG and a Golden Standard RNG (GSRNG). We show that sequences from simple PRNGs like LCGs and RC4 can be distinguished from the GSRNG. We also show that sequences from LCG on elliptic curves and VCSEL-based QRNG can not be distinguished from the GSRNG even with the biggest long-short term memory or convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that we have considered. We underline the fundamental role of design decisions in enhancing the safety of RNGs. The influence of network architecture design and associated hyper-parameters variations was also explored. We show that longer sequence lengths and CNNs are more effective for discriminating RNGs against the GSRNG. Moreover, in the prediction domain, the proposed model is able to deftly distinguish between the raw data of our QRNG and data from the GSRNG exhibiting a cross-entropy error of 0.52 on the test data-set used. All these findings reveal the potential of NNs to enhance the security of RNGs, while highlighting the robustness of certain QRNGs, in particular the VCSEL-based variants, for high-quality random number generation applications.
Homotopy in Exact Categories
Authors: Kelly Jack
Published: June 2024

In this monograph we develop various aspects of the homotopy theory of exact categories. We introduce different notions of compactness and generation in exact categories, and use these to study model structures on categories of chain complexes

C

h

∗

(

E

)

Ch_{*}(\mathcal {E})

which are induced by cotorsion pairs on

E

\mathcal {E}

. As a special case we show that under very general conditions the categories

C

h

+

(

E

)

Ch_{+}(\mathcal {E})

,

C

h

≥
0

(

E

)

Ch_{\ge 0}(\mathcal {E})

, and

C
h
(

E

)

Ch(\mathcal {E})

are equipped with the projective model structure, and that a generalisation of the Dold-Kan correspondence holds. We also establish conditions under which categories of filtered objects in exact categories are equipped with natural model structures. When

E

\mathcal {E}

is monoidal we also examine when these model structures are monoidal and conclude by studying some homotopical algebra in such categories. In particular we provide conditions under which

C
h
(

E

)

Ch(\mathcal {E})

and

C

h

≥
0

(

E

)

Ch_{\ge 0}(\mathcal {E})

are homotopical algebra contexts, thus making them suitable settings for derived geometry.
Introduction
Authors: Ward Matthew
Published: June 2024

The introduction establishes the key arguments of the book, setting out the place of laughter in Romanticism, its relation to poetry, and its fraught role in sympathetic feeling and the imagination. It opens with a discussion of the Pneumatic Institute in Bristol—place of scientific and philosophic discoveries—which, in 1799, briefly transforms into the laughing institute during Humphry Davy’s experiments into nitrous oxide. Laughter articulates the strange, unfathomable feelings witnessed at the Institute, and is read as an example of the way the laughable and the Romantic intersect in peculiar ways. The remainder of the introduction argues that there is a sea-change in attitudes towards laughter in the Romantic period, before detailing the state of the field in emotions and affect, and setting out the prosody of laughter, which informs the majority of the book.
Shelley’s Poetic Measures and Laughing Pleasures
Authors: Ward Matthew
Published: June 2024

‘He did not laugh, or even smile’, Edward Trelawny said approvingly of Shelley, for he ‘was always in earnest’. Over the years, criticism of Shelley’s work has prioritized the poet’s high seriousness. Yet in this chapter we discover laughter to be instinct with his sense of poetry—of its reforming and radical sensibilities, and unbounded power to disturb and inspire. Laughter is impediment and adversary to the influence of the poetic imagination, but also a joyous, ludic expression of the prophetic tenor of his lyric voice. It serves as foil for and echo of the sympathetic strains of poetry, yet reveals his own sceptical stance on sympathy. Laughter speaks to and through the idealistic-sceptical mode of his poetics of sympathy, and reveals a writer of restive, conflicted instincts. Shelley’s prosody of laughter is scornful and sympathetic, glimpses the elusive, speaks of the unknowable, bursts with anarchic impulses.
A comprehensive survey of dimensionality reduction and clustering methods for single-cell and spatial transcriptomics data
Authors: Sun Yidi , Kong Lingling , Huang Jiayi , Deng Hongyan , Bian Xinling , Li Xingfeng , Cui Feifei , Dou Lijun , Cao Chen , Zou Quan , Zhang Zilong
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the application of single-cell transcriptomics and spatial transcriptomics analysis techniques has become increasingly widespread. Whether dealing with single-cell transcriptomic or spatial transcriptomic data, dimensionality reduction and clustering are indispensable. Both single-cell and spatial transcriptomic data are often high-dimensional, making the analysis and visualization of such data challenging. Through dimensionality reduction, it becomes possible to visualize the data in a lower-dimensional space, allowing for the observation of relationships and differences between cell subpopulations. Clustering enables the grouping of similar cells into the same cluster, aiding in the identification of distinct cell subpopulations and revealing cellular diversity, providing guidance for downstream analyses. In this review, we systematically summarized the most widely recognized algorithms employed for the dimensionality reduction and clustering analysis of single-cell transcriptomic and spatial transcriptomic data. This endeavor provides valuable insights and ideas that can contribute to the development of novel tools in this rapidly evolving field.
Navigating the diagnostic journey of epidermolysis bullosa: a qualitative study of the lived experiences and needs of parents and patients
Authors: Korte Eva W H , Baardman Rosalie , Pool Grieteke , Duipmans Josephina C , van den Akker Peter C , Bolling Maria C
Published: June 2024

Background

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) concerns a heterogeneous group of rare genetic skin fragility disorders that result in chronic blistering and wounding. EB significantly affects the daily lives of patients, as well as their families. While advances in diagnostics are improving the speed and accuracy of EB diagnosis, little is known about the experiences and needs of parents and patients throughout their diagnostic journey.

Objectives

To explore parent and patient perspectives on the EB diagnostic trajectory to gain an in-depth understanding of their lived experiences and needs.

Methods

Participants were parents of paediatric patients with EB (n = 18) and adult patients with EB (n = 8) recruited from the Dutch EB Registry. After purposive sampling, they participated in semi-structured interviews via video calls to discuss their personal diagnostic trajectory and the subsequent impact of an EB diagnosis on their (family) life. By applying a constructivist approach, a reflexive thematic analysis was executed to facilitate a dynamic and iterative process, involving inductive open coding of transcripts and constant comparison of data.

Results

Ten major themes were developed, representing three distinct groups: (i) parents of children with junctional EB and recessive dystrophic EB; (ii) parents of children with EB simplex and dominant dystrophic EB; and (iii) adult patients with localized EB. The EB diagnostic process appeared to have a diversity of emotional consequences, varying from desperation and uncertainty about the future to clarification and confirmation. The urgent need for a timely diagnosis and accurate prognosis was emphasized, particularly by parents of children with an extensive presentation. Parents and patients expressed shortcomings in clinical practice, with severity ratings in current EB disease terminology, in particular, seeming to have an adverse impact on illness perception, healthcare-seeking behaviour, research participation and engagement in peer support.

Conclusions

This study describes the lived experience and needs of parents of children with EB and adult patients with EB during the diagnostic process. We found a pressing need to accelerate diagnostics and urge that the EB community should continue working toward ever-faster diagnosis, public awareness and education. While guiding patients along the diagnostic journey, clinicians should focus their support strategies on tailored medical communication while refraining from value-connoted wording.