bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Septal Branch Occlusion Leading to Complete Heart Block Post‐Percutaneous Intervention: A Cautionary Tale in Left Bundle Branch Block Patients
Authors: Manasrah AlMothana , Akel Tamer , Qaqa Firas
Published: February 2025

A 66‐year‐old man with a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) showing left bundle branch block developed persistent complete atrioventricular block following stent placement in the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD), necessitating permanent pacemaker implantation. The complication is believed to have resulted from occlusion of the second septal branch, which likely supplied the right bundle of the His system. During elective interventions targeting the LAD in patients with pre‐existing conduction abnormalities, it is crucial to maintain adequate blood flow to the septal perforators.
Bimodal (Photo)electrochemical Sensor for Cetirizine Detection
Authors: Fumagalli Daniele , Aidli Wafa , Falciola Luigi , Pifferi Valentina
Published: February 2025

A bimodal sensor able to effectively detect cetirizine, an antihistaminic drug, was proposed. The device is based on the catalytic properties of silver and the photoactivity of TiO2 and can be used as dual electrochemical‐photoelectrochemical sensor, with good performances in cetirizine quantification both through the molecule's reduction and its photo‐oxidation, with limits of detections of (3.2 ± 0.1) and (1.03 ± 0.08) µM, respectively. The use of these two materials allows for greater stability, robustness, and reusability compared to using two separate electrodes. Furthermore, a comparison of the results obtained with the two techniques can help in identifying and eliminating the effects of interferents, thus increasing the reliability of the detection.
Saliva Proteomics Highlights Potential BMI‐Related Biomarkers for Forensic and Medical Research
Authors: Tian Shunyi , Wang Qiyan , Huang Xiaolan , Zhu Shengjie , Zhang Hongling , Ren Zheng , Liu Yubo , Yang Meiqing , Huang Jiang , Jin Xiaoye
Published: February 2025

Obesity and underweight pose significant threats to human health as non‐communicable diseases. In addition, body shape (like obesity or emaciation) is an important investigative clue in forensic practice. Body mass index (BMI) is a common indicator to reflect body shape of an individual. However, there is a lack of rapid, simple, and effective methods for identifying different BMI individuals. This research aimed to delve into the correlations between salivary proteins and BMI. A total of 418 differential expression proteins (DEPs) were identified through four‐dimensional data independent acquisition quantitative proteomics analysis. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that DEPs were primarily involved in oxidative phosphorylation, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and cholesterol metabolism pathways. Finally, we identified 17 protein markers that were correlated with BMI. Two machine‐learning models (random forest and support vector machine) were also built based on these 17 markers. Obtained results demonstrated the efficacy of these 17 protein markers in accurately distinguishing different BMI individuals. In conclusion, our study not only provides potential salivary protein markers for identifying obesity and underweight individuals, it could also present a novel method for inferring BMI of saliva‐related samples in forensic case investigation.
The Dynamic Behavior of Charged Particles During the Relaxation Process of Electrophoretic Displays
Authors: Mai Sheng , Liu Xuekai , Zhao Juncheng , Yu Zhihang , Jin Jing , Shi Liuyong , Zhou Teng
Published: February 2025

Electrophoretic displays (EPDs) are commonly employed in applications like e‐books and electronic price tags due to their benefits of minimal power consumption, excellent contrast, and broad viewing angles. This article establishes a dynamic model for nanoparticles after the removal of the applied electric field. The model combines the Poisson equation, the Navier–Stokes equation, and the Nernst–Planck equation. The Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian method is applied to simulate nanoparticle diffusion motion under varying conditions, such as solution viscosity, particle radius, and reverse micelle radius, after the electric field is removed. The results indicate that after the electric field is removed, high‐viscosity solutions exert a stronger hindrance on the particles, resulting in a shorter displacement over the same time period. With equal charge, smaller particle radius exhibits higher surface charge density, allowing them to travel further within the same time frame. Additionally, a smaller reverse micelle radius facilitates the rapid neutralization of surface charge on the particles, thereby limiting their diffusion distance. These findings provide theoretical support for a deeper understanding of the operating mechanism of EPDs.
The Impact of Blade Surface Roughness on Wind Turbine Efficiency: A Monte Carlo Method Approach
Authors: Biazar Dariush , Afzalian Amard
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the impact of blade surface roughness on the performance and efficiency of wind turbines. Environmental factors such as icing, insects, dust, and pollution contribute to blade roughness, increasing aerodynamic drag and reducing power output. In this study, a Monte Carlo simulation is employed to analyze the effects of surface roughness on key variables, including the power coefficient, rotor torque, generator speed, and blade pitch angle in two distinct operating regions: partial load and full load. The results indicate that in the partial load region, increased roughness leads to a reduction in the power coefficient, generator speed, and rotor torque, ultimately lowering power output. However, in the full load region, the control system compensates for roughness effects by adjusting the blade pitch angle, maintaining a nearly constant power output. This study provides a probabilistic analysis of roughness effects, aiding engineers in developing optimized strategies for wind turbine design and maintenance to minimize energy losses and enhance efficiency.
Climate Fiction as Future‐Making: Narrative and Cultural Modelling Beyond Representation
Authors: Bartosch Roman , Hoydis Julia
Published: February 2025

Climate fiction (cli‐fi) increasingly attracts the attention of wider publics and expert science communities. And yet, critiques of its limits and the limits of its efficiency as a tool of persuading broader readerships are also becoming more frequent. This article draws on such critiques and discussions of the limits of representing climate change and related crises. We argue that, first, a focus on the representational capacity of fiction occludes other, equally important, functions of fiction. Second, we aver that such a focus insufficiently reflects on its own didactic bias that leads critics to endorse or even instrumentalize literary narrative for the seemingly obvious good cause of educating or mobilizing readers. The article suggests shifting the focus from mere issues of representation to questions of the effect and impact of reading in the wider conceptual context of climate imaginaries, defined as a shared set of beliefs, practices and norms, that define the scope of individual and collective future‐thinking. It aims to develop a better understanding of the potential links between future‐making and fiction and employs insights from model theory and theories and practices of (climate) modelling—the dominant, authoritative form of future‐making in many disciplines, especially the natural sciences—to propose that cli‐fi can be seen as an important alternative future‐making tool when it is recognized as a form of cultural modelling. This allows us to acknowledge that cli‐fi is a future‐making technology directly impacting climate imaginaries, as the article will show through exemplary readings of two case studies, Jessie Greengrass's novel The High House (2021) and Rory Mullarkey's play Flood (premiered 2018).
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Patients With Positive Antiphospholipid Antibodies After Fetal Death: Five Typical Cases From a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Xie Anxia , Liu Zhanmei , Wang Shenglan , Yuan Mingqian , Xie Ling , Liu Shengdong , Wei Xiaoxing
Published: February 2025

Background

Testing of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) has attracted increasing attention for its association with thrombosis and pregnancy loss. However, few studies reported long‐term monitoring outcomes of patients who experienced pregnancy loss and exhibited positivity for aPLs.

Objective

We investigated the causes of fetal death in five cases with positive aPLs and traced the patients for changes in aPLs, subsequent pregnancy outcomes, and thrombotic events.

Methods

This is a report of five typical cases from a prospective cohort study on the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) in patients who were hospitalized for fetal death in Xining, China. Long‐term follow‐up was conducted and repeat aPL testing was recommended when the patients were confirmed or suspect APS.

Results

All five patients had subsequent pregnancies that resulted in term livebirths. None of the patients experienced thrombotic events. One showed progression of aPL serostatus from alone IgM of aβ2GP‐1 to both IgM and IgG of aβ2GP‐1, two exhibited fluctuation of aPL serostatus, and one had negative conversion, and the other one had not retested aPLs and did not receive any intervention with uneventful subsequent pregnancy.

Conclusions

The aPLs of a patient with APS may develop or may disappear, so long‐term monitoring cannot be discounted. Also, a woman who has experienced fetal death and exhibits positivity for aPLs may not necessarily be a patient with APS, as there are a variety of conditions in which aPLs appear.
Economic viability of robotic fruit harvesters to reduce large seasonal labor demands: Analysis of Gala and Honeycrisp apples
Authors: Charlton Diane , Devadoss Stephen , Gallardo R. Karina , Luckstead Jeff , Vougioukas Stavros
Published: February 2025

Fruit harvesting is labor intensive and relies heavily on a decreasing immigrant farm labor supply. This study develops a model to compare robotic and manual apple‐harvesting profits. Given the anticipated performance of robotic prototypes, we find that a grower could spend $248.42 per acre per year on a robotic harvester and obtain the same profit as manual harvest. Marginal improvements in the percent of fruit harvested, harvester speed, and robot‐induced damage would greatly enhance robot profitability and farmers could spend more on the harvester and still obtain the same profit as manual harvest.
2‐[18F] FDG PET/CT in Rapid Late‐Onset Multiple Acyl‐CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Høj Astrid , Holm‐Yildiz Sonja , Krag Thomas , Dejanovic Danijela , van Overeem Hansen Thomas , Dunø Morten , Ørngreen Mette Cathrine , Vissing John , Løkken Nicoline
Published: February 2025

Multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is a rare inborn metabolic myopathy affecting fat and protein metabolism. Patients with late‐onset MADD typically present with exercise intolerance and muscle weakness. We present a patient with an acute, very late‐onset symptom debut at 52 years of age. Over 5 months, the patient deteriorated from asymptomatic to almost complete loss of ambulation. He had a substantial weight loss, head‐drop, progressive proximal limb and chewing weakness. Due to the rapid progression, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myositis, myasthenia gravis and a paraneoplastic syndrome in relation to underlying malignancy were considered first. A 2‐[18F] FDG PET/CT scan was performed to exclude a paraneoplastic syndrome. The scan revealed diffuse and symmetric, pathologically high 2‐[18F] FDG‐uptake in the patient's neck, shoulder, and paravertebral muscles, which was later suggested as a sign of a metabolic myopathy. Muscle biopsy (Oil Red O staining) and acylcarnitine profile (elevated C5‐C18 acylcarnitines) findings suggested MADD, which was confirmed by genetic analysis showing biallelic variants in the ETFDH gene (c.1763A>G, p.(His588Arg); c.897G>A, p.(Leu299=)). After 1 month of dietary intervention and daily diet supplements (riboflavin 400 mg TID, levocarnitine 1 g TID, Q10 150 mg qD in two doses), the patient had almost recovered to his habitual level. A posttreatment muscle biopsy showed less disrupted ultrastructure of the myofibers. We learned from this case of rapid and late‐onset MADD that 2‐[18F] FDG PET/CT, with diffuse and symmetric 2‐[18F] FDG‐uptake in skeletal muscle, can be valuable in clarifying this rare diagnosis.
Combination of Portable X‐Ray Fluorescence With Soil Magnetometry as an Effective Tool for Distinguish Different Pollution Sources
Authors: Magiera Tadeusz , Szuszkiewicz Marcin
Published: February 2025

To improve the efficiency of soil management and the identification of polluted areas to apply joint measurement technique including soil magnetometry (following the ISO 21226:2019 standard) and portable X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF). The measurements were conducted in two forest areas of the Silesian region (South Poland) with similar geological background, soil types and geomorphology, affected by different pollution sources. The results obtained using three pXRF measurements procedures (field measurement, laboratory measurement of fresh and dry samples) were verified in a chemical laboratory (ICP‐OES technique with aqua regia). Based on the results, the most reliable values were obtained when using air‐dried, sieved and homogenised soil samples. Field measurements were characterised by low measurement repeatability because of the heterogeneity of the measured soil surface (high porosity, variable granulation, high content of organic matter) and the high litter moisture. When determining the concentration levels of Co, Mn, Pb, V and Zn in dry samples, the values measured by pXRF were comparable to those obtained via ICP‐OES. In the case of As, the average values were 50% higher than those determined via ICP‐OES, whereas the Cr and Ni concentrations were underestimated. The Spearman's rank correlation between magnetic susceptibility and the concentrations of Pb, Zn, As (rs = 0.84, 0.88, 0.85, respectively) as well as the pollution load index (PLI), were sufficiently high to apply the soil magnetometry method on both tested sites. However, in the site affected by magnetic particles from one dominant pollution source, the correlation values were significantly higher than those in the site with overlapping emission sources (urban and industrial sources).
Analysis of mitogenomes from the family Keratoisididae reveals mitonuclear discordance and the presence of unknown open reading frames
Authors: Morrissey Declan , Quattrini Andrea M. , Allcock A. Louise
Published: February 2025

Historically, evolutionary studies have not been able to resolve relationships within Octocorallia but recent advances in genomic techniques have allowed large numbers of Ultra Conserved Elements and exons, collectively referred to as conserved elements, to be extracted from the nuclear genome. Few studies have compared evolutionary histories generated with these conserved elements and with those inferred from complete mitogenomes. We examined the characteristics of 26 complete mitogenomes and constructed both mitochondrial and nuclear (1418 conserved elements) phylogenies of the family Keratoisididae, a prolific group of exclusively deep-sea corals. Relationships among most keratoisidid groups were well supported by the conserved element phylogeny while many were unresolved from mitogenomic inferences. In addition, some incongruences were observed. The position of keratoisidid groups F1 and I4, and the observed polyphyly of D2 in the nuclear inference phylogeny, provide evidence for mitonuclear discordance within the group. Multiple novel Open Reading Frames (ORFs) of unknown function were found in the mitogenome between cob and nad6. These ORFs ranged in size from 84 to 537 bp and were present in all examined mitogenomes except those assigned to keratoisidid group A1 which only has a 10 bp gap between coding regions. Further investigation is required to determine whether these ORFs are expressed and, if so, what function they have. The presence of mitonuclear discordance within the family indicates that phylogenies constructed with concatenated mitochondrial and nuclear markers may be inappropriate.
Metabolic acidosis is associated with infection severity in pediatric pyelonephritis and pneumonia
Authors: Brummer Hannah , Wang Hongyue , Schwartz George J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Pyelonephritis is the most common serious bacterial infection in pediatric patients. Several electrolyte abnormalities have been described with pyelonephritis, including metabolic acidosis. We sought to describe the frequency and clinical significance of metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients with acute Escherichia coli (E. coli) pyelonephritis, with comparison to parallel infection group of bacterial pneumonia.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective study of pediatric patients with pyelonephritis or pneumonia hospitalization. Nadir serum bicarbonate and anion gap values were collected, and baseline and recovery values when available. Serum electrolyte and creatinine values and markers of infection severity were recorded.

Results

Ninety-four pyelonephritis and 95 pneumonia subjects were included. Pyelonephritis mean nadir bicarbonate was 20 (SD 3) mEq/L, statistically significantly lower than 21 (3) mEq/L in pneumonia. Corresponding anion gap was 16 (4) mEq/L in pyelonephritis, statistically significantly lower than 17 (3) mEq/L in pneumonia. There was significant correlation between acidosis and number of fever days in pyelonephritis and between acidosis and hospital length of stay in both groups.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated development of acidosis in 84% of patients with pyelonephritis and in 66% with pneumonia. The mechanism of acidosis appears to have a greater contribution from elevated anion gap in the pneumonia group compared to the pyelonephritis group. Lower nadir serum bicarbonate values are associated with longer hospital length of stay in both groups and greater number of fever days in the pyelonephritis patients.

Graphical abstract
Analysing futex-based synchronisation primitives using model checking
Authors: Evrard Hugues , Donaldson Alastair F.
Published: February 2025

The futex Linux system call enables implementing performant inter-thread and inter-process synchronisation primitives, such as mutexes and condition variables. However, the futex system call is notoriously difficult to use correctly. An early implementation of futex-based mutexes in the Linux Native POSIX Thread Library suffered from a subtle defect. When teaching about clever futex-based mutex designs that avoid these early shortcomings, we have found that their intricacies are hard to understand and difficult to convey to students. In this case study, we use the Promela modelling language to model a number of futex-based mutex and condition variable implementations, and the Spin model checker to verify safety properties over these models. We show that model checking is effective at confirming known bugs that affected real-world implementations and at confirming that current implementations do indeed behave correctly in multi-threaded environments. We also investigate the effectiveness of symmetry reduction and two memory usage reduction techniques for increasing the scalability of model checking in this domain. The Promela models we have developed are available as open source. They may be useful as teaching material for classes that cover futex-based synchronisation primitives and as a template for performing formal verification on new synchronisation primitive designs.
Software vulnerability detection under poisoning attacks using CNN-based image processing
Authors: González-Manzano Lorena , Garcia-Alfaro Joaquin
Published: February 2025

Design flows, code errors, or inadequate countermeasures may occur in software development. Some of them lead to vulnerabilities in the code, opening the door to attacks. Assorted techniques are developed to detect vulnerable code samples, making artificial intelligence techniques, such as Machine Learning (ML), a common practice. Nonetheless, the security of ML is a major concern. This includes the the case of ML-based detection whose training process is affected by data poisoning. More generally, vulnerability detection can be evaded unless poisoning attacks are properly handled. This paper tackles this problem. A novel vulnerability detection system based on ML-based image processing, using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), is proposed. The system, hereinafter called IVul, is evaluated under the presence of backdoor attacks, a precise type of poisoning in which a pattern is introduced in the training data to alter the expected behavior of the learned models. IVul is evaluated with more than three thousand code samples associated with two representative programming languages (C# and PHP). IVul outperforms other comparable state-of-the-art vulnerability detectors in the literature, reaching

$$82\%$$

82
%

to

$$99\%$$

99
%

detection accuracy. Besides, results show that the type of attack may affect a particular language more than another, though, in general, PHP is more resilient to proposed attacks than C#.
Otfrid Foerster (1873–1941): Pionier einer funktionell orientierten Neurochirurgie
Authors: Zentner Josef
Published: February 2025

Otfrid Foerster gilt als eine der herausragendsten Persönlichkeiten der Neurowissenschaften des frühen 20. Jahrhunderts. Von der deskriptiven Neurologie seiner Pariser Lehrzeit kommend, verfolgte er einen analytischen Ansatz, der ihn in die Neurochirurgie führte, die ihm durch Reizung und Beobachtung der Reizantworten ein funktionell-topografisches Verständnis neurologischer Erkrankungen ermöglichte. Die daraus resultierenden praktischen Erkenntnisse erbrachten ihm eine hohe internationale Reputation und prägten die Entwicklung der Neurophysiologie in der westlichen Welt. Erst gegen Ende seines knapp 20-jährigen Wirkens als Professor für Neurologie in Breslau konnte sein lang gehegter Traum eines modernen neurologischen Institutes, in dem Krankenversorgung und Grundlagenforschung vereint waren, realisiert werden.
Marine allergens in farmed seaweed: considerations for precautionary labelling
Authors: Mildenberger Jennifer , Rebours Céline
Published: February 2025

Seaweed aquaculture is growing and an increasing number of seaweed products is introduced on the food market. Contamination by marine allergens is a concern for the food industry and recommendations are missing on if and how products need to be labelled to assure food safety. Two species of kelp were sampled from four farms along the Norwegian coastline during two consecutive years. The samples were quantified for their content of crustacean and mollusc tropomyosin and fish parvalbumin by commercial ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) kits. All three seafood allergens were detected in several kelp samples with high variation, but without a specific pattern. We also studied samples in relation to their location within one farm, seeding methods, algae parts and a shifted harvesting period, with some aspects leading to differences. Samples were also analysed after blanching and fermentation at one studied farm and drying and powdering at a food processor. No major changes in allergen levels were observed after blanching and fermentation, but sample numbers might have been limiting. Homogenisation in larger quantities led to less variation between replicates, however, cross-contamination needs to be avoided. Detected marine allergens in the studied samples were below critical levels associated with an allergenic risk and would not require labelling according to the widely used VITAL (Voluntary Incidental Trace Allergen Labelling) guideline. However, this consideration is the responsibility of the food producer and needs to be based on analyses done for each batch of products as part of the general food safety evaluation.
The New Organization of Ethics Committees in Italy: What is the Future of Clinical Ethics?
Authors: Refolo Pietro , Raimondi Costanza , Sacchini Dario , Spagnolo Antonio Gioacchino
Published: February 2025

Background

In Italy, clinical ethics is not well institutionalized. On February 7, 2023, the Italian Ministry of Health published four long-awaited decrees regarding the reorganization of ethics committees. Aim: The aim of this article is twofold: firstly, we aim to briefly summarize the development of clinical ethics in Italy from a legislative point of view; secondly, we aim to examine how Italian regions are implementing the part of the new decrees on the organization of ethics committees that concerns clinical ethics. Methods: As for the first aim, we conducted a critical interpretive review (CIR). The search was restricted to the opinions offered by the Italian National Bioethics Committee (CNB) and to the major Italian legislative decrees on the topic. Regarding the second aim, we conducted an online search through Regional Official Bulletins of each Italian region. Results: Our analysis showed that despite the recommendations from the CNB to differentiate Research Ethics Committees (RECs) and Clinical Ethics Committees (CECs), over the years legislative attention has mainly focused on RECs and pharmacological matters. The new decrees allow regions to be flexible in organizing their activities. However, it emerged that only four regions (Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Puglia, Emilia-Romagna) have split the roles, while all the other regions have entrusted both roles to a single committee. Conclusion: The risk for Italy is to take a step backward in the development of clinical ethics. Possible solutions could be either making Local Ethics Committees (CELs) mandatory or institutionalizing Ethics Consultation services (ECSs).
The effectiveness and reliability of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation following chemotherapy in managing malignant lymphoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ahmed Hend , Shafiey Ahmed S. , Abdelrahim Mohamed E. A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is a valuable treatment option for several hematological malignancies, particularly in relapsed or refractory cases. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is effective in improving survival rates in selected patients, particularly those with aggressive lymphomas and multiple myeloma. Studies suggest AHSCT may outperform alternative therapies, but ongoing research is essential to refine patient selection. Many patients enjoy prolonged remission and improved quality of life, indicating the need for long-term follow-up to assess late effects and overall survival. This work aimed to establish meta-analysis to methodically evaluate the safety and effectiveness of autologous stem cell therapy (AHSCT) in the management of malignant lymphoma following high-dose chemotherapy and to produce reliable findings that may serve as a foundation for clinical application and reference.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed from February 2017 to August 2024, and malignant lymphoma was identified as the study subjects' diagnosis. The experimental group was identified as AHSCT afterwards high-dose chemotherapy, while the control group underwent standard chemotherapy (with no restrictions on the chemotherapy regimen). The outcome indicators were progression-free survival (PFS), complete remission rate (complete response (CR) + partial response (PR)), and overall survival (OS).

Results

Fifteen literature pieces in all, consisting of 1229 subjects in the control group and 896 subjects in the experimental group, were included. Conventional chemotherapy (chemotherapy regimen not limited) was the intervention strategy used in the control group. The odds ratio (OR) was 2.23, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of [1.54, 3.22], Z = 4.25; P < 0.0001, indicating that the groups differed in overall survival and progression-free survival rates. Similarly, the progression-free survival rate was 2.70, with a 95% CI of 1.86–3.92, Z = 4.25; P < 0.0001, and overall survival was 2.23.

Conclusions

Patients with malignant lymphoma who receive chemotherapy can substantially extend their overall survival and progression-free survival rates with AHSCT treatment.
On fundamental aspects of quantum extreme learning machines
Authors: Xiong Weijie , Facelli Giorgio , Sahebi Mehrad , Agnel Owen , Chotibut Thiparat , Thanasilp Supanut , Holmes Zoë
Published: February 2025

Quantum extreme learning machines (QELMs) have emerged as a promising framework for quantum machine learning. Their appeal lies in the rich feature map induced by the dynamics of a quantum substrate—the quantum reservoir—and the efficient post-measurement training via linear regression. Here, we study the expressivity of QELMs by decomposing the prediction of QELMs into a Fourier series. We show that the achievable Fourier frequencies are determined by the data encoding scheme, while Fourier coefficients depend on both the reservoir and the measurement. Notably, the expressivity of QELMs is fundamentally limited by the number of Fourier frequencies and the number of observables, while the complexity of the prediction hinges on the reservoir. As a cautionary note on scalability, we identify four sources that can lead to the exponential concentration of the observables as the system size grows (randomness, hardware noise, entanglement, and global measurements) and show how this can turn QELMs into useless input-agnostic oracles. In particular, our result on the reservoir-induced concentration strongly indicates that quantum reservoirs drawn from a highly random ensemble make QELM models unscalable. Our analysis elucidates the potential and fundamental limitations of QELMs and lays the groundwork for systematically exploring quantum reservoir systems for other machine learning tasks.
The ‘swastika epidemic’ of 1960 and the first major public debate about antisemitism in republican Italy
Authors: Palumbo Enrico
Published: February 2025

In December 1959, several episodes of antisemitism occurred in West Germany. These events spread rapidly to other countries and were dubbed by newspapers the ‘swastika epidemic’. In Italy, the episodes sparked intense debate among the main political forces of the time, framing the interpretation of antisemitic episodes within a context that considered the comparison between the two countries, while also being influenced by the political transition of centrist governments shifting to the left and the transition of religious opinion on Jewish-Christian relations. The general and unanimous condemnation of antisemitism was accompanied by various interpretations of the racism of Fascist Italy and the historical responsibilities of the Catholic world. The result was an extremely fragmented picture, but with significant political and cultural implications in a year that would see the explosion of political violence.
Visions of Indian Economic Unity On the Eve of Partition: A Tale of Two Companies
Authors: Hussain Atiya
Published: February 2025

This article examines Mahindra & Mohammed (now Mahindra & Mahindra) and the Muhammadi Steamship Company through a microhistory of late colonial Bombay. The paper reveals companies committed to the economic unity of India shortly before the anticolonial struggle culminated in the violent and chaotic Partition of British India in August 1947. In Bombay, the center of Indian industry and not typically associated with the Partition’s dislocations, economic partition was unanticipated even by economic actors closely allied with the Muslim League. The two firms examined here highlight the understudied impact of decolonization and the Partition of the sub-continent on Indian capitalism, and suggests that postcolonial territorial realities implied an economic rearticulation that has often been overlooked.
Singular NPs and the expression of genericity in Norwegian
Authors: Velnić Marta , Slabakova Roumyana , Dahl Anne , Listhaug Kjersti Faldet
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the capacity of singular noun phrases (NPs) to express genericity in Norwegian, examining how definite, indefinite, and bare singular forms map onto generic meanings. A timed acceptability judgment task was used to investigate how each form correlates with generic expressions, delving into the subtleties of their usage in native language. Thirty-three Norwegian native speakers completed the study. Our results indicate that all three NP forms can convey some type of generic meaning, but there are preferences in their application. The definite singular is well-suited for kind and characterizing generics, whereas the indefinite singular, though less favored, is still acceptable in characterizing and type-denoting contexts. The bare singular shows a strong inclination toward type-denoting meanings, possibly due to its intrinsic emphasis on types over individuals. We discuss the multifunctionality of Norwegian singular NPs and the implications of individual variation among native speakers for learners of Norwegian.
Shock Induced Metal Globules in Chang'e‐5 Impact Melt Splash and Implication for the Coalescence Growth of Submicroscopic Metal Particles in Lunar Soil
Authors: Yin Chengxiang , Fu Xiaohui , Cao Haijun , Lu Xuejin , Chen Jian , Zhang Jiang , Ling Zongcheng , Che Xiaochao
Published: February 2025

Submicroscopic metallic iron particles (SMFe) are unique components of lunar soil produced during long‐term exposure on the Moon's surface. They can significantly alter the optical properties of lunar soil and this alteration is crucial for the interpretation of remote sensing data. The origin and formation of SMFe remain a subject of controversy, with multiple competing mechanisms coexisting. The newly returned Chang'e‐5 (CE‐5) samples provide a new opportunity to elucidate the formation of SMFe. Here, we conducted a systematical study on the morphology and chemical characteristics of metal globules in CE‐5 impact melt splash. A total of 30,630 metal globules were identified with an average diameter of 222.87 nm. Most of them are nearly/perfectly spherical, but the others are irregular in shape. Three types of irregular metal globules have been found: Spindle type, deformation type, and coalescence type. Spindle and deformation types were formed under the influence of local thermal disequilibrium and/or differences in wettability, while the coalescence type reflects the growth of metal globules driven by the Oswald ripening. A series of metal globules at different coalescence stages were found, providing conclusive petrographic evidence for the long‐term hypothesis of SMFe growth (e.g., Pieters & Noble, 2016, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016je005128). Geochemical analysis shows that meteoritic Fe‐Ni metals (like iron meteorite) made a significant contribution to the formation of metal globules. This further indicates the contribution of exotic meteoroid materials to the CE‐5 lunar soil.
Timing of Contractional Stress Propagation, From the Pyrenean Orogen to the Intraplate Domain, Evidenced by U‐Pb Dating of Syn‐Kinematic Calcite
Authors: Jullien‐Sicre Agathe , Missenard Yves , Blaise Thomas , Augier Romain , Parizot Oriane , Haurine Frédéric
Published: February 2025

The Mediterranean region provides a natural laboratory for studying complex deformation resulting from body forces and interactions between the convergence of the Africa and Eurasia plates since the Cretaceous. These interactions led to the formation of a mosaic of basins and orogenic domains, whose intrinsically complex evolution over time is still subject to debate. Investigating the timing of deformation recorded on both sides of an orogen, and within the intraplate domain, links local‐scale processes to regional geodynamic events. This study combines microstructural analysis and U‐Pb dating of syn‐kinematic calcite with implications for the timing of contractional stress propagation in the Pyrenean orogen and the whole of western Europe. While many U‐Pb dating studies on syn‐kinematic calcite have been conducted in the western intraplate domain, the northern part of the Pyrenees remains to be investigated, and, therefore, a strategic study area. This study highlights (a) continuous deformation from ca. 48 Ma to 30 Ma, marking the phase of continental collision between Iberia and Eurasia and (b) a newly evidenced post‐orogenic Miocene deformation episode, spanning from ca. 16 to 11 Ma. (c) Through a comparison of U‐Pb geochronological data from syn‐kinematic calcite in the pro‐foreland basin and the intraplate domain, this study shows that deformation occurred simultaneously at the plate boundaries and within a large part of the intraplate domain of the overriding plate. These results provide insights into the geodynamic evolution of the Pyrenean orogen and its implications for Mediterranean geodynamics.
Elevated serum levels of HIF-1α and VEGF as potential biomarkers in connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Shi Xiaofei , Ma Xin , Wang Huanhuan , He Xuegai , Fan Hua , Mao Yimin
Published: February 2025

We to measure the serum levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients diagnosed with connective tissue disease (CTD)-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (CTD-PAH) and to analyze their clinical implications. Thirty patients who were diagnosed with CTD-PAH via right heart catheterization (RHC) were enrolled in the observation group. Additionally, twenty CTD patients without PAH (CTD-non-PAH) were enrolled in the CTD-non-PAH group, and twenty healthy participants were enrolled in the healthy control group. Additional data on CTD-PAH patients, including demographic characteristics, laboratory parameters, and hemodynamic measurements, were obtained. The serum levels of HIF-1α and VEGF in all participants were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pearson correlation was utilized to determine the correlation between the expression levels of these factors and clinical data. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of expression of HIF-1α and VEGF for diagnosing CTD-PAH. Participants in the three groups were age-matched. The CTD-PAH group included 29 females and 1 male, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was the most prevalent CTD diagnosis (17/30). Serum levels of VEGF and HIF-1α were significantly greater in both CTD-PAH and CTD-non-PAH patients compared to the healthy controls (P < 0.01). In addition, the serum concentration of HIF-1α in the CTD-PAH group was significantly greater than that in the CTD-non-PAH group (248.86 ± 18.85 and 224.64 ± 12.22, respectively, P = 0.0022). Similarly, the serum concentration of VEGF in the CTD-PAH group was significantly greater than that in the CTD-non-PAH group (251.11 ± 48.37 and 222.120 ± 18.57, respectively, P = 0.0026). In patients with CTD-PAH, the concentrations of HIF-1α and VEGF are significantly positively correlated with mPAP (r = 0.81, r = 0.88). Both HIF-1α and VEGF concentrations were positively correlated with BNP levels (r = 0.5340, r = 0.6472) and negatively correlated with the 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) (r=-0.46, r=-0.47, respectively, P < 0.01). When VEGF and HIF-1α were combined, the diagnostic ROC curve yielded an AUC of 0.933. Increased serum levels of HIF-1α and VEGF were observed in CTD-PAH patients compared to CTD-non-PAH patients and healthy controls, which, along with their positive correlations with mPAP and BNP levels and negative correlations with the 6MWD, indicate their potential as biomarkers for diagnosing CTD-PAH.
Seasonal variation in Swedish sarcoidosis patients with severe hypercalcemia
Authors: Werner Joanna , Darlington Pernilla , Rivera Natalia , Eklund Anders , Smed-Sörensen Anna , Kullberg Susanna
Published: February 2025

Sarcoidosis associated hypercalcemia (SAHC) is a challenging clinical problem as it can result in severe morbidity. Sunlight exposure and conversion of vitamin D to its active form by macrophages in granulomas have been suggested as possible causes. We aimed to disentangle mechanisms behind SAHC by investigating any associations with season, granuloma burden and lung macrophages. Patients with SAHC were identified from a local cohort. The patients were divided in two groups: mild and severe SAHC. Data on when SAHC occurred, HLA-DRB1 alleles, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) macrophages, extrapulmonary manifestations (EPM) and serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (s-ACE) as a marker for granuloma burden were retrieved from medical records. Out of 83 patients with SAHC, severe hypercalcemia was found in 36 patients, 75% of whom presented between May and October (p < 0.001). No seasonal variation was observed for patients with mild hypercalcemia. Elevated s-ACE was more common in patients with severe hypercalcemia (84% of patients), compared to 46% in the group with mild hypercalcemia (p < 0.001). HLA-DRB1*04 was more frequent in the group with severe hypercalcemia, compared to the mild group (67% vs. 32%, p < 0.01). Results support SAHC being associated with sun exposure. Risk factors to be observant of are elevated s-ACE and HLA-DRB1*04.
Visible-light-mediated radical difunctionalization of alkenes with aromatic aldehydes
Authors: Xu Zhenhua , Geng Tao , Du Jun , Zuo Youpeng , Hu Xiaoxiao , Liu Lin , Shi Zhiqiang , Huang Huawen
Published: February 2025

Herein, we report a novel synthetic method for α-acylalkyl glutarate derivatives through visible-light-induced photoredox cascade coupling of aromatic aldehydes with acrylates under mild conditions.
How can we engineer electronic transitions through twisting and stacking in TMDC bilayers and heterostructures? a first-principles approach
Authors: Lin Yu-Hsiu , Comaskey William P. , Mendoza-Cortes Jose L.
Published: February 2025

Twisted bilayers of MX2 transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) reveal tunable electronic properties. Varying twist angles creates Moiré patterns that significantly affect band gaps, enabling novel functionalities in low-dimensional materials.
Tri‐M2MT: Multi‐modalities based effective acute bilirubin encephalopathy diagnosis through multi‐transformer using neonatal Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Perumal Kumar , Mahendran Rakesh Kumar , Ahmad Khan Arfat , Kadry Seifedine
Published: February 2025

Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy (ABE) is a significant threat to neonates and it leads to disability and high mortality rates. Detecting and treating ABE promptly is important to prevent further complications and long‐term issues. Recent studies have explored ABE diagnosis. However, they often face limitations in classification due to reliance on a single modality of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). To tackle this problem, the authors propose a Tri‐M2MT model for precise ABE detection by using tri‐modality MRI scans. The scans include T1‐weighted imaging (T1WI), T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI), and apparent diffusion coefficient maps to get indepth information. Initially, the tri‐modality MRI scans are collected and preprocessesed by using an Advanced Gaussian Filter for noise reduction and Z‐score normalisation for data standardisation. An Advanced Capsule Network was utilised to extract relevant features by using Snake Optimization Algorithm to select optimal features based on feature correlation with the aim of minimising complexity and enhancing detection accuracy. Furthermore, a multi‐transformer approach was used for feature fusion and identify feature correlations effectively. Finally, accurate ABE diagnosis is achieved through the utilisation of a SoftMax layer. The performance of the proposed Tri‐M2MT model is evaluated across various metrics, including accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, F1‐score, and ROC curve analysis, and the proposed methodology provides better performance compared to existing methodologies.
Engineering and technological aspects of the application of artificial intelligence models in modern agriculture
Authors: Anokhina Olga , Musaeva Madina , Grace Amelia
Published: February 2025

The article examines the application of artificial intelligence models in modern agriculture as a crucial area of innovative development within the agricultural sector. The use of artificial intelligence models in contemporary farming opens up vast opportunities for increasing efficiency, optimizing processes, and minimizing costs. Modern artificial intelligence technologies, such as machine learning, neural networks, and computer vision, are being utilized for predicting crop yields, monitoring plant health, managing irrigation, and automating agricultural machinery. However, the implementation of such solutions, particularly the adherence to technical standards governing digital data processing and management, ensures the reliability, security, and environmental sustainability of modern digital technologies in agriculture.
Analysis of the dynamics of changes in factor load models for predicting failures of a spacecraft
Authors: Kraev Konstantin , Zaitsev Pavel , Kazakovtsev Vladimir
Published: February 2025

The paper considers the theoretical aspects of factor analysis as applied to the problem of predicting the failure-free operation of low-orbit communication satellites. The authors described the nature of the factors affecting the spacecraft during operation. The structure of the methodology for preparing data and creating factor load models is described. A methodology for analyzing the dynamics of changes in factor load models is proposed. The basic concepts and the algorithm are described. A numerical experiment to test the proposed hypothesis and interpreted the key factors influencing the functioning of the spacecraft is described. The factors are distributed into influence groups. As a result of the numerical experiment and the conducted analysis of the dynamics of changes in the factor load models, we made a conclusion on the validity of the proposed hypothesis. The practical applicability of the described approach for predicting failures and malfunctions during the operation of spacecraft is discussed.
Development of a fuzzy rule base design algorithm using a genetic algorithm and an inverted pendulum
Authors: Marushchenko Nikita , Stanovov Vladimir
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the development of a fuzzy rule base construction algorithm that leverages a genetic algorithm to optimize control parameters for complex dynamic systems. The algorithm was tested on an inverted pendulum model, a classical nonlinear control problem, to identify chromosome configurations capable of stabilizing the pendulum in an upright position. Through extensive experimentation, the program successfully discovered such chromosomes that stabilized the pendulum from a variety of initial positions, including inverted (top-down) states, by forming the needed fuzzy rules base and fuzzy input and output terms. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed approach in automating the design of fuzzy logic controllers using evolutionary methods.