bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust secure synchronization control for multiple neural networks: An event‐triggered adaptive integral sliding mode method
Authors: Wang Jie , Dong Yuchen , Tian Bailing , Zong Qun
Published: September 2022

This article investigates the robust secure synchronization control of multiple neural networks (MNNs) systems with external random disturbances in the presence of actuator and sensor attacks. First, the types of attacks are analyzed in detail. Actuator attacks refers to the damage of control input signals transmitted through the network layer, and sensor attacks refers to the damage of communication channels between neural networks (NNs). Then, for the attacked NNs system, by introducing a novel neighborhood synchronization error, two novel integral sliding mode (ISM) functions with the event‐triggered mechanisms are designed. Based on this, a distributed event‐triggered adaptive ISM secure synchronization control scheme is proposed. It is worth noting that the control signal and adaptive parameters in the proposed scheme are only updated at the triggering time instants, which further saves the energy and resources consumed by the system. Next, the sufficient conditions for secure synchronization of MNNs system are obtained by constructing Lyapunov function and a positive lower bound of the internal execution time is ensured. Finally, a numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed secure synchronization control strategy.
Self‐avoiding walk on the hypercube
Authors: Slade Gordon
Published: September 2022

We study the number of ‐step self‐avoiding walks on the ‐dimensional hypercube, and identify an ‐dependentconnective constantand amplitude such that is for all and , and is asymptotically as long as for any fixed . We refer to the regime as thedilute phase. We discuss conjectures concerning different behaviors of when reaches and exceeds , corresponding to a critical window and a dense phase. In addition, we prove that the connective constant has an asymptotic expansion to all orders in , with integer coefficients, and we compute the first five coefficients . The proofs are based on generating function and Tauberian methods implemented via the lace expansion, for which an introductory account is provided.
Assessing the influence of cover crop on soil water dynamics using soil moisture measurements and hydrus‐1D simulations
Authors: Chakraborty Poulamee , Singh Jasdeep , Singh Navdeep , Kumar Sandeep
Published: September 2022

Winter cover crop (CC) has the potential for improving soil physical condition; however, both improvement and depletion of soil water storage because of CC were reported depending on the soil depth and the rainfall received in a growing season. The present study used sensors to measure the soil moisture content (cm3 cm−3) and soil water potential (–cm) for a no‐till corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] system managed with and without winter CC. The sensors were installed at three soil depths (15, 30, and 45 cm) and the measurements were continued for three cash crop growing seasons (corn, 2017; soybean, 2018; and corn, 2019). The observed soil water potential (–cm) was lower (high tension) for the no cover crop (NCC) system as compared to the CC for the 45‐cm depth in 2017 and 2019, and 15‐ and 30‐cm depth in 2018. The Hydrus‐1D satisfactorily simulated the soil water potential and moisture content values for the CC and NCC systems with a coefficient of determination (R2) ranging from .58 to .93 and .57 to .92, respectively. The CC stored 12, 17, and 7% less soil water in the Ap soil layer (0–18 cm) than NCC for the day of cash crop planting for the years 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. However, the water input from rainfall replenished the soil moisture after the establishment of the cash crop and resulted in increased soil water storage in the CC as compared to the NCC in the Ap soil layer for the years 2018 and 2019. The present study, therefore, concluded that the use of winter CC improved soil water status for the following cash crop as compared to a NCC system.
Seed coating with fungicide causes a beneficial shift in root‐associated microbiomes of mature soybean
Authors: Yang Qi , Yang Xueling , Huang Xiaowei , Ye Wenwu , Wang Tianyu , Cheng Zhongyi , Shi Jiachun , Li Yong , Xu Jianming , He Yan
Published: September 2022

While seed coating with fungicide is commonly used to control diseases in conventional soybean culture, the impact of fungicide seed coating on root‐associated microbial communities remains largely understudied. This hinders our assessment of the potential ecological and environmental risks of fungicide seed coating and our ability to improve plant health by using appropriate disease control practices. Here, we examined the diversity and composition of bacterial and fungal communities across root–soil compartments collected from a field experiment sown with fungicide‐coated or untreated seeds. The community structures significantly differed among the root–soil compartments. Fungicide seed coating demonstrated a greater effect on the structure of endophytic communities, including root endosphere and nodule, than the rhizosphere communities. A number of plant beneficial microbes responded positively to fungicide seed coating. Meanwhile, seed coating increased the absolute abundance of the nifH gene related to nitrogen fixation, especially in the root endosphere, from 2.63 to 18.30 ×108 copies g–1 dry root. Root‐associated microbes with coatings had a higher complexity of the microbial interkingdom cooccurrence network than those without coatings. Altogether, soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] root‐associated microbiomes may have a high resilience under fungicide seed coating. At the mature stage of soybean, seed coating did not show any negative impact of residual fungicide on the root‐associated microecology, and it may pose a lower environmental risk than we have envisaged. Our results took a step forward in the responses of root‐associated microbiomes to the environment for legumes that have rarely been studied and provided new evidence of the eco‐friendly advantages of seed coatings in addition to agricultural output.
On estimation and cross‐validation of dynamic treatment regimes with competing risks
Authors: Morzywołek Paweł , Steen Johan , Van Biesen Wim , Decruyenaere Johan , Vansteelandt Stijn
Published: September 2022

The optimal moment to start renal replacement therapy in a patient with acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a challenging problem in intensive care nephrology. Multiple randomized controlled trials have tried to answer this question, but these contrast only a limited number of treatment initiation strategies. In view of this, we use routinely collected observational data from the Ghent University Hospital intensive care units (ICUs) to investigate different prespecified timing strategies for renal replacement therapy initiation based on time‐updated levels of serum potassium, pH, and fluid balance in critically ill patients with AKI with the aim to minimize 30‐day ICU mortality. For this purpose, we apply statistical techniques for evaluating the impact of specific dynamic treatment regimes in the presence of ICU discharge as a competing event. We discuss two approaches, a nonparametric one — using an inverse probability weighted Aalen‐Johansen estimator — and a semiparametric one — using dynamic‐regime marginal structural models. Furthermore, we suggest an easy to implement cross‐validation technique to assess the out‐of‐sample performance of the optimal dynamic treatment regime. Our work illustrates the potential of data‐driven medical decision support based on routinely collected observational data.
Highly Efficient Microwave‐Assisted Fenton Degradation of Toluene Nitration Wastewater over Microwave‐Responsive Catalyst of Fe3O4−BiOCl
Authors: Shen Xiaodong , Cai Zhuoer , Hu Jinzhong , Sun Baiwang
Published: September 2022

Microwave‐assisted Fenton process over a high microwave‐responsive catalyst (Fe3O4−BiOCl) was developed. The morphology, composition and magnetic recovery of the prepared catalyst were analyzed. Correspondingly, the optimal reaction conditions were obtained and the catalyst had a good recovery performance. A good degradation result (COD removal efficiency=82.57 %, TOC removal efficiency=85.15 %, TN removal efficiency=80.86 %) was obtained with low energy consumption and chemical inputs, which proved that the system has a certain industrialization prospect. Furthermore, take p‐nitrophenol (PNP) as an example, The reaction mechanism of this process had been investigated. The reaction was divided into three stages: 1. Activation 2. Oxidation 3. Mineralization. In the Oxidation phase, the reaction followed zero‐order reaction kinetics model and the rate constant was 0.0642 mM s−1. To investigate the kinetics, a heterogeneous Fenton‐photocatalysis synergistic degradation mechanism based on experimental data was proposed.
Mn‐Dependent Morphology and Structure of SnS2 Nanosheets and the Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Shuai Xiaofeng , Wang Yuan , Zhang Juan , Zhao Ruihua , Guo Tianyu , Du Jianping , Li Jinping
Published: September 2022

Transition metal dichalcogenides have potential application in photocatalysis. Here, we synthesized Mn‐(un) doped tin disulfide materials for photocatalytic degradation by hydrothermal method. The XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS, XPS, BET, UV‐Vis and PL were employed to analyze their structures, morphologies, surface chemical state and photoelectronic properties. The results show that as‐prepared tin disulfide displays hexagonal morphology of nanotablets, and Mn‐doped tin disulfide consists of quasi‐hexagonal thin nanotablets that are stacked to form wrinkle layers. The doped tin disulfide has low bandgap energy, fast electron transport, larger photocurrent response and separation efficiency of photogenerated electron‐hole pairs. The results of photocatalysis indicate that the Mn‐doped tin disulfide exhibits high photocatalytic activity and fast degradation capacity with more than 99 % degradation rate for methyl violet within 90 min under visible light irradiation. Notably, Mn‐doped tin disulfide has also high degradation rate for rhodamine B. This strategy for introducing Mn in tin disulfide provides guides for morphology control and designing multifunctional photocatalyst for wide application.
Photocrosslinked Poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) – Polydimethylsiloxane – Poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) Triblock Copolymeric Films: Structural, Thermal and Shape Memory Properties
Authors: Sachan Radha , Warkar Sudhir G. , Purwar Roli
Published: September 2022

The shape memory triblock photocrosslinked copolymeric films of varying poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) chain length and constant polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) content are synthesized. The effect of PCL chain length on structural, thermal and shape memory properties of triblock copolymeric films is studied. The structural properties are analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and optical microscope. Discrete crystal morphology is observed with increase in PCL chain length. Thermal properties are evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) using non‐isothermal and isothermal modes. The crystallinity and crystal melting point of triblock polymer increases with increase in PCL chain length. The crystallization kinetics of triblock PCL‐PDMS‐PCL copolymeric films are studied with the help of Avrami model and Lauritzen‐Hoffman (LH) model. The three‐dimensional growth of PCL crystals is observed in triblock copolymers. Inclusion of PDMS block resulted in longer crystallization time, higher energy barrier and affects the crystal growth rate of PCL block, which further affect the shape fixity and shape recovery ratio accordingly.
Alternative Functionalization of 2‐(3,4‐Dihalophenyl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐ones via Metal‐Free Nucleophilic Aromatic Fluorine Substitution and Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Shcherbakov Konstantin V. , Panova Mariya A. , Burgart Yanina V. , Sinegubova Ekaterina O. , Orshanskaya Iana R. , Zarubaev Vladimir V. , Gerasimova Natalia A. , Evstigneeva Natalia P. , Saloutin Victor I.
Published: September 2022

Alternative pathways for the functionalization of 2‐(3‐bromo‐4‐fluorophenyl)‐ and 2‐(3,4‐difluorophenyl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐ones have been studied under conditions of metal‐free base‐promoted nucleophilic aromatic substitution and palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. The possibility of implementing these two synthetic techniques is shown by the example of obtaining 2‐[3‐aryl‐4‐(1H‐azol‐1‐yl) phenyl]‐4H‐chromen‐4‐ones. Evaluation of the antimicrobial effect of the synthesized azolyl‐substituted flavones was carried out. Compounds with moderate anti‐influenza, anti‐gonococcal and high fungistatic activity were found.
Thermal‐Responsive MXene‐DNA Hydrogel for Near‐Infrared Light Triggered Localized Photothermal‐Chemo Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: He Ping‐Ping , Du Xiaoxue , Cheng Yuan , Gao Qi , Liu Chang , Wang Xiaowen , Wei Yonghua , Yu Qilin , Guo Weiwei
Published: September 2022

Stimuli‐responsive DNA hydrogels are promising candidates for cancer treatment, as they not only possess biocompatible and biodegradable 3D network structures as highly efficient carriers for therapeutic agents but also are capable of undergoing programmable gel‐to‐solution transition upon external stimuli to achieve controlled delivery. Herein, a promising platform for highly efficient photothermal‐chemo synergistic cancer therapy is established by integrating DNA hydrogels with Ti3C2TX‐based MXene as a photothermal agent and doxorubicin (DOX) as a loaded chemotherapeutic agent. Upon the irradiation of near‐infrared light (NIR), temperature rise caused by photothermal MXene nanosheets triggers the reversible gel‐to‐solution transition of the DOX‐loaded MXene‐DNA hydrogel, during which the DNA duplex crosslinking structures unwind to release therapeutic agents for efficient localized cancer therapy. Removal of the NIR irradiation results in the re‐formation of DNA duplex structures and the hydrogel matrix, and the recombination of free DOX and adaptive hydrogel transformations can also be achieved. As demonstrated by both in vitro and in vivo models, the MXene‐DNA hydrogel system, with excellent biocompatibility and injectability, dynamically NIR‐triggered drug delivery, and enhanced drug uptake under mild hyperthermia conditions, exhibits efficient localized cancer treatment with fewer side effects to the organisms.
Injectable Double Positively Charged Hydrogel Microspheres for Targeting‐Penetration‐Phagocytosis
Authors: Lin Jiawei , Chen Liang , Yang Jielai , Li Xingchen , Wang Juan , Zhu Yuan , Xu Xiangyang , Cui Wenguo
Published: September 2022

The localization and accumulation of drugs in the body determine their therapeutic effects; however, the specific microstructure of damaged tissues hinders drug delivery. Currently, there is a shortage of effective drug carriers to breach these barriers and achieve efficient tissue and cellular delivery of drugs. In this study, an injectable double positively charged functional hydrogel microsphere with “targeting cartilage extracellular matrix”, “cartilage penetration”, and “cellular phagocytosis” is designed for matching the structural characteristics of joints, addressing the difficulties of drug delivery in joints. The microspheres could be adsorbed on the negatively charged cartilage surface because of their positively charged poly‐lysine surface. Furthermore, the internally loaded positively charged polyamidoamine contained kartogenin, which helped further the penetration of the cartilage under the guidance of electrical charge. The microspheres could release kartogenin for more than 21 days. In in vivo experiments, the microspheres effectively improve the efficiency of drug delivery, inhibit the degradation of cartilage matrix and subchondral bone, and delay the development of osteoarthritis. As a double positively charged drug delivery system, the versatile microsphere has great potential for treating osteoarthritis and other diseases.
Controlled Self‐Assembly of Hollow Core‐Shell FeMn/CoNi Prussian Blue Analogs with Boosted Electrocatalytic Activity
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Huo Wenyi , Feng Hanchen , Zhou Xuefeng , Fang Feng , Xie Zonghan , Shang Jian Ku , Jiang Jianqing
Published: September 2022

Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) are considered as efficient catalysts for energy‐related applications due to their porous nanoscale architectures containing finely disseminated active sites. Their catalytic capability can be greatly boosted by the rational design and construction of complex PBA hybrid nanostructures. However, present‐day structure engineering inevitably involves additional etchant or procedure. Herein, a facile, yet controllable one‐pot self‐assembly strategy is introduced to prepare hierarchical core‐shell polymetallic PBAs (featuring bimetallic FeMn PBAs cores and CoNi PBAs shells) with hollow nano‐cages/solid nano‐cube architectures. The detailed characterization of material morphology/composition, assisted with theoretical simulations, reveals the underlying formation mechanism where the key factor is the control of the nucleation rate via the use of chelating agent (citrates) and reaction kinetics. The resulting FeMn@CoNi–H compound is found to accelerate the oxygen evolution reaction activity with a low overpotential (236 mV at a current density 10 mA cm–2) as well as a low Tafel slope (58.4 mV dec−1). Such an impressive performance is endowed by the rational compositional and structural design with optimized electronic structures as well as an increase in exposed active sites. This work provides a robust, cost‐effective pathway that enables chemical and morphological control in creating high‐performance catalysts for water electrolysis.
Molecular Van Der Waals Heterojunction Photodiodes Enabling Dipole‐Induced Polarity Switching
Authors: Shin Jaeho , Yang Seunghoon , Eo Jung Sun , Jeon Takgyeong , Lee Jaeho , Lee Chul‐Ho , Wang Gunuk
Published: September 2022

Solid‐state devices capable of controlling light‐responsive charge transport at the molecular scale are essential for developing molecular optoelectronic technology. Here, a solid‐state molecular photodiode device constructed by forming van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions between standard molecular self‐assembled monolayers and two‐dimensional semiconductors such as WSe2 is reported. In particular, two non‐functionalized molecular species used herein (i.e., tridecafluoro‐1‐octanethiol and 1‐octanethiol) enable bidirectional modulation of the interface band alignment with WSe2, depending on their dipole orientations. This dipole‐induced band modulation at the vdW heterointerface leads to the opposite change of both photoswitching polarity and rectifying characteristics. Furthermore, compared with other molecular or 2D photodiodes at a similar scale, these heterojunction devices exhibit significantly enhanced photo‐responsive performances in terms of photocurrent magnitude, open‐circuit potential, and switching speed. This study proposes a novel concept of the solid‐state molecular optoelectronic device with controlled functions and enhanced performances.
Reliability and risk in new ventures: Founding team's native immigrant composition and performance variability
Authors: Sinha Kanhaiya K. , Osiyevskyy Oleksiy
Published: September 2022

The study examines the performance and the risks of new ventures founded by hybrid teams consisting of immigrants and natives. Earlier investigations have taken a dichotomous view of immigrants in the founding team without paying sufficient attention to their relative numbers. We argue that the numeric strength of immigrants in the founding team affects firms' average performance. Furthermore, as entrepreneurial endeavors are risky, we examine the native/immigration effect on the new venture performance variability. Using new venture data from the Kauffman Firm Survey, we find that the ratio of natives in the founding team is associated with lower mean performance and higher risk in the short and medium term. This means a higher relative number of immigrants in the founding team is associated with higher average performance and lower risk. We further find that the average team age is negatively associated with the short‐ and medium‐term mean performance while positively affecting the short‐term performance variability. A higher male–female ratio is positively associated with performance but not with variability.
Competing‐risks model for prediction of small‐for‐gestational‐age neonate at 36 weeks' gestation
Authors: Papastefanou I. , Thanopoulou V. , Dimopoulou S. , Syngelaki A. , Akolekar R. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To develop further a competing‐risks model for the prediction of a small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) neonate by including sonographically estimated fetal weight (EFW) and biomarkers of impaired placentation at 36 weeks' gestation, and to compare the performance of the new model with that of the traditional EFW < 10th percentile cut‐off.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study in 29 035 women with a singleton pregnancy undergoing routine ultrasound examination at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. A competing‐risks model for the prediction of a SGA neonate was used. The parameters included in the prior‐history model were provided in previous studies. An interaction continuous model was used for the EFW likelihood. A folded plane regression model was fitted to describe likelihoods of biomarkers of impaired placentation. Stratification plans were also developed. The new model was evaluated and compared with EFW percentile cut‐offs.

Results

The performance of the model was better for predicting SGA neonates delivered closer to the point of assessment. The prediction provided by maternal factors alone was improved significantly by the addition of EFW, uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA‐PI) and placental growth factor (PlGF) but not by mean arterial pressure or soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1. At a 10% false‐positive rate, maternal factors and EFW predicted 77.6% and 65.8% of SGA neonates < 10th percentile delivered before 38 and 42 weeks, respectively. The respective figures for SGA < 3rd percentile were 85.5% and 74.2%. Addition of UtA‐PI and PlGF resulted in marginal improvement in prediction of SGA < 3rd percentile requiring imminent delivery. A competing‐risks approach that combines maternal factors and EFW performed better when compared with fixed EFW percentile cut‐offs at predicting a SGA neonate, especially with increasing time interval between assessment and delivery. The new model was well‐calibrated.

Conclusions

A competing‐risks model provides effective risk stratification for a SGA neonate at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation and is superior to EFW percentile cut‐offs. The use of biomarkers of impaired placentation in addition to maternal factors and fetal biometry results in small improvement of the predictive performance for a neonate with severe SGA. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology applications of magnetoelectric nanoparticles
Authors: Smith Isadora Takako , Zhang Elric , Yildirim Yagmur Akin , Campos Manuel Alberteris , Abdel‐Mottaleb Mostafa , Yildirim Burak , Ramezani Zeinab , Andre Victoria Louise , Scott‐Vandeusen Aidan , Liang Ping , Khizroev Sakhrat
Published: September 2022

Unlike any other nanoparticles known to date, magnetoelectric nanoparticles (MENPs) can generate relatively strong electric fields locally via the application of magnetic fields and, vice versa, have their magnetization change in response to an electric field from the microenvironment. Hence, MENPs can serve as a wireless two‐way interface between man‐made devices and physiological systems at the molecular level. With the recent development of room‐temperature biocompatible MENPs, a number of novel potential medical applications have emerged. These applications include wireless brain stimulation and mapping/recording of neural activity in real‐time, targeted delivery across the blood–brain barrier (BBB), tissue regeneration, high‐specificity cancer cures, molecular‐level rapid diagnostics, and others. Several independent in vivo studies, using mice and nonhuman primates models, demonstrated the capability to deliver MENPs in the brain across the BBB via intravenous injection or, alternatively, bypassing the BBB via intranasal inhalation of the nanoparticles. Wireless deep brain stimulation with MENPs was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo in different rodents models by several independent groups. High‐specificity cancer treatment methods as well as tissue regeneration approaches with MENPs were proposed and demonstrated in in vitro models. A number of in vitro and in vivo studies were dedicated to understand the underlying mechanisms of MENPs‐based high‐specificity targeted drug delivery via application of d.c. and a.c. magnetic fields.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
ODDE Strategic Positioning in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: Glennie Jenny , Paul Ross
Published: September 2022

This chapter considers some of the challenges of the development of strategy, both for the conventional and ODDE sectors of higher education, with a brief look at the literature since strategic planning was first in vogue in the private sector in the early 1960s. Although the most common approach in higher education, so much so-called strategic planning does little to advance long-term visions and strategies or to differentiate one institution from another. The sudden pivot to online learning and other distance education that the COVID-19 pandemic has forced on conventional (contact) institutions has blurred distinctions between traditional and ODDE universities, thus rendering effective strategy development and implementation more important than ever.

This chapter conducts the literature review considering both institutional and system-wide strategy development, underlining their common elements. Then, from the unique vantage point of the South African Institute of Distance Education (Saide), a nongovernmental organization based in Johannesburg but conducting projects throughout South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, it discusses the challenges for ODDE strategy development in the particular context of COVID-19. The chapter concludes with implications from the analysis for both the conventional and ODDE sectors in higher education in South Africa and elsewhere based, in part, on the lessons learned during the pandemic.
Motivation to Learn in Open, Distance, and Digital Education
Authors: Fryer Luke K. , Shum Alex , Nakao Kaori
Published: September 2022

As research questions in the rapidly growing field of Open, Distance, and Digital Education shift from if to how these forums should be approached, a paramount and complementary area of research is the accompanying motivation students’ exhibit to learn in ODDE environments. This chapter critically examines the existing literature on student motivation in ODDE at each of the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, and beyond. Much existing research involves one-off comparisons between students’ motivation in using popular tools such as MOOCs, gamification of learning, interactive whiteboards, and AR/VR tools with not using them. While mixed effects have been observed, seldom are tools catered to theory and context in a manner that best supports students’ learning. To see the field continue to mature, results from studies must be situated within robust theories of motivation in educational psychology. More program-level research built on more stringent standards in design, analysis, and replication is required. Future directions of research are discussed.
Ising-like and Fibonacci anyons from KZ-equations
Authors: Gu Xia , Haghighat Babak , Liu Yihua
Published: September 2022

Abstract

In this work we present solutions to Knizhnik-Zamolodchikov (KZ) equations corresponding to conformal block wavefunctions of non-Abelian Ising-like and Fibonacci Anyons. We solve these equations around regular singular points in configuration space in terms of hypergeometric functions and derive explicit monodromy representations of the braid group action. This confirms the correct non-Abelian statistics of the solutions. One novelty of our approach is that we explicitly keep track of spin basis states and identify conformal blocks uniquely with such states at relevant points in moduli space.
Dirac pairings, one-form symmetries and Seiberg-Witten geometries
Authors: Argyres Philip C. , Martone Mario , Ray Michael
Published: September 2022

Abstract

The Coulomb phase of a quantum field theory, when present, illuminates the analysis of its line operators and one-form symmetries. For 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 field theories the low energy physics of this phase is encoded in the special Kähler geometry of the moduli space of Coulomb vacua. We clarify how the information on the allowed line operator charges and one-form symmetries is encoded in the special Kähler structure. We point out the important difference between the lattice of charged states and the homology lattice of the abelian variety fibered over the moduli space, which, when principally polarized, is naturally identified with a choice of the lattice of mutually local line operators. This observation illuminates how the distinct S-duality orbits of global forms of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 theories are encoded geometrically.
Power counting energy flow polynomials
Authors: Cal Pedro , Thaler Jesse , Waalewijn Wouter J.
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Power counting is a systematic strategy for organizing collider observables and their associated theoretical calculations. In this paper, we use power counting to characterize a class of jet substructure observables called energy flow polynomials (EFPs). EFPs provide an overcomplete linear basis for infrared-and-collinear safe jet observables, but it is known that in practice, a small subset of EFPs is often sufficient for specific jet analysis tasks. By applying power counting arguments, we obtain linear relationships between EFPs that hold for quark and gluon jets to a specific order in the power counting. We test these relations in the parton shower generator Pythia, finding excellent agreement. Power counting allows us to truncate the basis of EFPs without affecting performance, which we corroborate through a study of quark-gluon tagging and regression.
Finding Generative Rules in Settlements and Houses by Means of an Ideographic Language
Authors: Seo Kyung Wook
Published: September 2022

This research revisits an early space syntax method of ideographic representation which was proposed by Hillier and his colleagues in the 1970s. The method provided an effective way of capturing syntactic relations of enclosure in settlements and houses in its compact format but has not gained the attention it deserves in the field of morphological research. Taking advantage of its power of compressed description, we analyse architectural plans of Korean vernacular houses from the fifteenth to the twentieth century. Tracing the 600-years transformation process by means of a series of ideographic formulae, we investigate the changing patterns of their layout and reveal the genotypical elements shared by a wide variety of housing types. By translating spatial relations to simple linguistic descriptions, the ideographic method enables not only an economic way of representing built environment but also a deductive way of finding generative rules in it.
Inhibiting ERK dimerization ameliorates BRAF-driven anaplastic thyroid cancer
Authors: Zaballos Miguel A. , Acuña-Ruiz Adrián , Morante Marta , Riesco-Eizaguirre Garcilaso , Crespo Piero , Santisteban Pilar
Published: September 2022

Background

RAS-to-ERK signaling is crucial for the onset and progression of advanced thyroid carcinoma, and blocking ERK dimerization provides a therapeutic benefit in several human carcinomas. Here we analyzed the effects of DEL-22379, a relatively specific ERK dimerization inhibitor, on the activation of the RAS-to-ERK signaling cascade and on tumor-related processes in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

We used a panel of four human anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) cell lines harboring BRAF or RAS mutations to analyze ERK dynamics and tumor-specific characteristics. We also assessed the impact of DEL-22379 on the transcriptional landscape of ATC cell lines using RNA-sequencing and evaluated its therapeutic efficacy in an orthotopic mouse model of ATC.

Results

DEL-22379 impaired upstream ERK activation in BRAF- but not RAS-mutant cells. Cell viability and metastasis-related processes were attenuated by DEL-22379 treatment, but mostly in BRAF-mutant cells, whereas in vivo tumor growth and dissemination were strongly reduced for BRAF-mutant cells and mildly reduced for RAS-mutant cells. Transcriptomics analyses indicated that DEL-22379 modulated the transcriptional landscape of BRAF- and RAS-mutant cells in opposite directions.

Conclusions

Our findings establish that BRAF- and RAS-mutant thyroid cells respond differentially to DEL-22379, which cannot be explained by the previously described mechanism of action of the inhibitor. Nonetheless, DEL-22379 demonstrated significant anti-tumor effects against BRAF-mutant cells in vivo with an apparent lack of toxicity, making it an interesting candidate for the development of combinatorial treatments. Our data underscore the differences elicited by the specific driver mutation for thyroid cancer onset and progression, which should be considered for experimental and clinical approaches.
$$\varvec{\varepsilon }$$-Shading Operator on Riesz Spaces and Order Continuity of Orthogonally Additive Operators
Authors: Mykhaylyuk V. , Popov M.
Published: September 2022

Given a Riesz space E and $$0 < e \in E$$

0
<
e
∈
E

, we introduce and study an order continuous orthogonally additive operator which is an $$\varepsilon $$
ε
-approximation of the principal lateral band projection $$Q_e$$

Q
e

(the order discontinuous lattice homomorphism $$Q_e :E \rightarrow E$$

Q
e

:
E
→
E

which assigns to any element $$x \in E$$

x
∈
E

the maximal common fragment $$Q_e(x)$$

Q
e

(
x
)

of e and x). This gives a tool for constructing an order continuous orthogonally additive operator with given properties. Using it, we provide the first example of an order discontinuous orthogonally additive operator which is both uniformly-to-order continuous and horizontally-to-order continuous. Another result gives sufficient conditions on Riesz spaces E and F under which such an example does not exist. Our next main result asserts that, if E has the principal projection property and F is a Dedekind complete Riesz space then every order continuous regular orthogonally additive operator $$T :E \rightarrow F$$

T
:
E
→
F

has order continuous modulus |T|. Finally, we provide an example showing that the latter theorem is not true for $$E = C[0,1]$$

E
=
C
[
0
,
1
]

and some Dedekind complete F. The above results answer two problems posed in a recent paper by O. Fotiy, I. Krasikova, M. Pliev and the second named author.
Biomedical Signal Denoising Via Permutating, Thresholding and Averaging Noise Components Obtained from Hierarchical Multiresolution Analysis-Based Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Zhou Yang , Ling Bingo Wing-Kuen , Zhou Xueling
Published: September 2022

Biomedical signals are usually contaminated with interfering noise, which may result in misdiagnosis of diseases. Additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) is a common interfering noise, and much work has been proposed to suppress AWGN. Recently, hierarchical multiresolution analysis-based empirical mode decomposition (EMD) denoising method is proposed and shows potential performance. In order to further improve performance of hierarchical multiresolution analysis-based EMD denoising, this paper combines hierarchical multiresolution analysis-based EMD, thresholding operation and averaging operation together. In particular, EMD is applied to the first intrinsic mode function (IMF) in the first level of decomposition to obtain IMFs in the second level of decomposition. The first IMF in the second level of decomposition is chosen as the noise component. For each realization, this noise component is segmented into various pieces, and these segments are permutated. By summing up this permutated IMF to the rest of IMFs in both the first level of decomposition and the second level of decomposition, new realization of the noisy signal is obtained. Next, for original signal and each realization of newly generated noisy signal, EMD is performed again. IMFs in the first level of decomposition are obtained. Then, consecutive mean squared errors-based criterion is used to classify IMFs in the first level of decomposition into the information group of IMFs or the noise group of IMFs. Next, EMD is applied to IMFs in the noise group in the first level of decomposition and IMFs in the second level of decomposition are obtained. Detrended fluctuation analysis is used to classify IMFs in the second level of decomposition into the information group of IMFs or the noise group of IMFs. After that, thresholding is applied to IMFs in the noise group in the second level of the decomposition to obtain denoised signal. Finally, the above procedures are repeated, and several realizations of denoised signals are obtained. Then, denoised signal obtained by applying thresholding to each realization is averaged together to obtain final denoised signal. The extensive numerical simulations are conducted and the results show that our proposed method outperforms existing EMD-based denoising methods.
Theoretical and computational investigation of the fracturing behavior of anisotropic geomaterials
Authors: Dimitri Rossana , Rinaldi Martina , Trullo Marco , Tornabene Francesco
Published: September 2022

The fracturing process in geomaterials is studied to characterize a potential host rock for radioactive waste, such as the kaolinite-rich Opalinus Clay formation. Because of its sedimentary genesis, this rock can be considered as a transversely isotropic geomaterial. A semi-circular bending test is here modeled based on the eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM), to check for the formation and propagation of cracks in the rock, with a particular focus on the effect of notch dimensions and scale effects on the fracturing response of the specimen in terms of peak load. Starting with the XFEM-based results, a novel analytical formulation is also proposed to approximate the response of the material in terms of load-crack mouth opening displacement. The proposed formulation is also capable to provide a reliable estimate of the peak value and time history response, compared to some experimental predictions from literature, starting from a predefined value of initial notch depth, which could represent a useful theoretical tool for design purposes.
The duration of acceleration cycle downturns: duration dependence, international dynamics and synchronisation
Authors: Koutsoumanis George , Castro Vítor
Published: September 2022

This paper analyses the factors that affect the duration of economic downturns using data for growth (acceleration) cycles for 13 industrialised countries over the period 1950–2018. Our findings show that downturn periods die of old age. We also find that when trading partners are in a downturn, the duration of a country’s downturn is likely to be shorter, a likely outcome of common stabilisation mechanisms or terms of trade changes. Additionally, more open economies are found to experience shorter downturn periods and European Union countries show a higher level of synchronisation than the others. Lastly, trade linkages are found to intensify acceleration cycle synchronisation.
Modular Operator for Null Plane Algebras in Free Fields
Authors: Morinelli Vincenzo , Tanimoto Yoh , Wegener Benedikt
Published: September 2022

We consider the algebras generated by observables in quantum field theory localized in regions in the null plane. For a scalar free field theory, we show that the one-particle structure can be decomposed into a continuous direct integral of lightlike fibres and the modular operator decomposes accordingly. This implies that a certain form of QNEC is valid in free fields involving the causal completions of half-spaces on the null plane (null cuts). We also compute the relative entropy of null cut algebras with respect to the vacuum and some coherent states.
Upscaling between an agent-based model (smoothed particle approach) and a continuum-based model for skin contractions
Authors: Peng Q. , Vermolen F. J.
Published: September 2022

Skin contraction is an important biophysical process that takes place during and after recovery of deep tissue injury. This process is mainly caused by fibroblasts (skin cells) and myofibroblasts (differentiated fibroblasts which exert larger pulling forces and produce larger amounts of collagen) that both exert pulling forces on the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Modelling is done in multiple scales: agent-based modelling on the microscale and continuum-based modelling on the macroscale. In this manuscript we present some results from our study of the connection between these scales. For the one-dimensional case, we managed to rigorously establish the link between the two modelling approaches for both closed-form solutions and finite-element approximations. For the multi-dimensional case, we computationally evidence the connection between the agent-based and continuum-based modelling approaches.
Monteggia fractures and Monteggia-like-lesions: a systematic review
Authors: Weber Marc Maximilian , Rosteius Thomas , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Königshausen Matthias , Rausch Valentin
Published: September 2022

Monteggia injuries are rare, but severe injuries of the elbow including various injury patterns. Treatment of these injuries is still topic of debate and strategies differ widely. In this systematic review on Monteggia injuries in adults, we aimed to clarify the incidence of different injury patterns within Monteggia injuries, investigate the main reasons leading to revision surgery and explore which surgical treatments should be favored to achieve satisfactory clinical results.

We initially identified 182 publications and ultimately included 17 retrospective studies comprising 651 cases. All patients were classified using the Bado classification, leading to 30.5% Bado type I fractures, 60.4% type II fractures, 5.1% type III and 3.1% type IV fractures. Mean revision rate was 23%. Ulna non-union (28%) and limited range-of-motion (22%) are the main reasons for revision surgery. Meta-analysis shows a trend toward the use of locking plates for ulna fixation which may lead to less revision surgery and fewer ulna non-unions. Further biomechanical and clinical research is necessary to clarify the role of radial head surgery.
Oncological and functional outcomes of transoral laser surgery for hypopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Casanueva Rodrigo , López Fernando , García-Cabo Patricia , Álvarez-Marcos César , Llorente José Luis , Rodrigo Juan Pablo
Published: September 2022

Background

Surgical resection or radiotherapy (RT) are standard approaches for early-staged hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC). Transoral laser microsurgery (TOLMS) seems to provide good oncological and functional results with few local complications. The aim of our study was to analyze the outcomes of TOLMS, with or without neck dissection or RT, in the treatment of HPSCC in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in patients with early T-category (T1–T2) HPSCC treated by TOLMS.

Results

A total of 34 patients were included in the study. The series includes 17 (50%) T1 and 17 (50%) T2 classified tumors. The 5-year overall survival and disease-specific survival rates were 51% and 66%, respectively, with a 5-year local control rate of 92%. All patients reassumed oral diet and none of them had a tracheostomy at the end of the follow-up.

Conclusions

TOLMS offers an effective treatment option in terms of oncologic control and function preservation in locally circumscribed HPSCC.
A prospective cost–benefit analysis for nylon 4N6FLOQSwabs®: example of the process and potential benefits
Authors: Budowle Bruce , Ge Jianye , Sajantila Antti
Published: September 2022

Laboratories and their criminal justice systems are confronted with challenges for implementing new technologies, practices, and policies even when there appears to be demonstrative benefits to operational performance. Impacting decisions are the often higher costs associated with, for example, new technologies, limited current budgets, and making hard decisions on what to sacrifice to take on the seemingly better approach. A prospective cost–benefit analysis (CBA) could help an agency better formulate its strategies and plans and more importantly delineate how a relatively small increase to take on, for example, a new technology can have large impact on the system (e.g., the agency, other agencies, victims and families, and taxpayers). To demonstrate the process and potential value a CBA was performed on the use of an alternate and more expensive swab with reported better DNA yield and being certified human DNA free (i.e., nylon 4N6FLOQSwabs®), versus the traditional less costly swab (i.e., cotton swab). Assumptions are described, potential underestimates and overestimates noted, different values applied (for low and modest to high), and potential benefits (monetary and qualitative) presented. The overall outcome is that the cost of using the more expensive technology pales compared with the potential tangible and intangible benefits. This approach could be a guide for laboratories (and associated criminal justice systems) worldwide to support increased funding, although the costs and benefits may vary locally and for different technologies, practices, and policies. With well-developed CBAs, goals of providing the best services to support the criminal justice system and society can be attained.
Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein is sensitive to acute but not chronic tissue damage in cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Gattringer Thomas , Enzinger Christian , Pinter Daniela , Fandler-Höfler Simon , Kneihsl Markus , Haidegger Melanie , Eppinger Sebastian , Demjaha Rina , Buchmann Arabella , Jerkovic Andrea , Schmidt Reinhold , Khalil Michael
Published: September 2022

Background

Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) has been proposed as a biomarker in various neurological diseases but has not yet been systematically investigated in patients with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). We explored whether sGFAP levels are increased in stroke patients with MRI-confirmed recent small subcortical infarcts (RSSI) and analyzed the subsequent course and determinants of sGFAP longitudinally.

Methods

In a prospectively-collected cohort of stroke patients with a single RSSI (n = 101, mean age: 61 years, 73% men), we analyzed brain MRI and sGFAP using a SIMOA assay at baseline and at 3- and 15-months post-stroke. Community-dwelling age- and sex-matched individuals (n = 51) served as controls.

Results

RSSI patients had higher baseline sGFAP levels compared to controls (median: 187.4 vs. 118.3 pg/ml, p < 0.001), with no influence of the time from stroke symptom onset to baseline blood sampling (median 5 days, range 1–13). At the 3- and 15-months follow-up, sGFAP returned to control levels. While baseline sGFAP correlated with larger infarct size (rs = 0.28, p = 0.01), neither baseline nor follow-up sGFAP levels were associated with chronic CSVD-related lesions (white matter hyperintensities, lacunes, microbleeds) after adjusting for age, sex and hypertension. Furthermore, sGFAP levels did not relate to the occurrence of new vascular brain lesions on follow-up MRI.

Conclusions

sGFAP is increased in patients with CSVD-related stroke and correlates with the size of the RSSI. However, sGFAP levels were not related to chronic neuroimaging features or progression of CSVD, suggesting that sGFAP is sensitive to acute but not chronic cerebrovascular tissue changes in this condition.