bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering tau leptons-enriched semi-visible jets at the LHC
Authors: Beauchesne Hugues , Cazzaniga Cesare , de Cosa Annapaola , Doglioni Caterina , Fitschen Tobias , di Cortona Giovanni Grilli , Zhou Ziyuan
Published: July 2023

This Letter proposes a new signature for confining dark sectors at the Large Hadron Collider. Under the assumption of a QCD-like hidden sector, hadronic jets containing stable dark bound states could manifest in proton-proton collisions. We present a simplified model with a $$Z'$$

Z
′

boson yielding the production of jets made up of dark bound states and subsequently leading to the decays of those that are unstable to $$\tau $$
τ
leptons and Standard Model quarks. The resulting signature is characterised by non-isolated $$\tau $$
τ
lepton pairs inside semi-visible jets. We estimate the constraints on our model from existing CMS and ATLAS analyses. We propose a set of variables that leverage the leptonic content of the jet and exploit them in a supervised jet tagger to enhance the signal-to-background separation. Furthermore, we discuss the performance and limitations of current triggers for accessing sub-TeV $$Z'$$

Z
′

masses, as well as possible strategies that can be adopted by experiments to access such low mass regions. We estimate that with the currently available triggers, a high mass search can claim a $$5 \sigma $$

5
σ

discovery (exclusion) of the $$Z'$$

Z
′

boson with a mass up to 4.5 TeV (5.5 TeV) with the full Run 2 data of the LHC when the fraction of unstable dark hadrons decaying to $$\tau $$
τ
lepton pairs is around $$50\%$$

50
%

, and with a coupling of the $$Z'$$

Z
′

to right-handed up-type quarks of 0.25. Furthermore, we show that, with new trigger strategies for Run 3, it may be possible to access $$Z'$$

Z
′

masses down to 700 GeV, for which the event topology is still composed of two resolved semi-visible jets.
Investigating the effects of Lorentz Invariance Violation on the CP-sensitivities of the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment
Authors: Sarker Arnab , Medhi Abinash , Devi Moon Moon
Published: July 2023

The phenomena of neutrino oscillations offer a great potential for probing new-physics beyond the Standard Model. Any additional effects on neutrino oscillations can help understand the nature of the non-standard effects. The violation of fundamental symmetries may appear as a probe for new-physics in various neutrino experiments. Lorentz symmetry is one such fundamental symmetry in nature and the breakdown of spacetime is a possible motivation for a departure from the standard Lorentz symmetry picture. The Lorentz invariance violation (LIV) is intrinsic in nature and its effects exist even in a vacuum. Neutrinos can be an intriguing probe for exploring such violations of Lorentz symmetry. The effect of violation of Lorentz invariance can be explored through its impact on the neutrino oscillation probabilities. The effect of LIV is treated as a perturbation to the standard neutrino Hamiltonian considering the Standard Model Extension (SME) framework. In this work, we have probed the effects of LIV on the measurement of neutrino oscillation parameters considering Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) as a case study. The inclusion of LIV affects the measurements of various neutrino oscillation parameters as it modifies the standard neutrino oscillation probabilities. We looked into the capability of DUNE in constraining the LIV parameters and then explored the impact of CPT-violating LIV terms on the mass-induced neutrino oscillation probabilities. We have also probed the impact of LIV parameters on the CP-measurement sensitivities at DUNE.
The Super Restricted Edge-connectedness of Direct Product Graphs
Authors: Bai Minglu , Tian Yingzhi , Yin Jiaqiong
Published: July 2023

Let [Formula: see text] be a graph with vertex set [Formula: see text] and edge set [Formula: see text]. An edge subset [Formula: see text] is called a restricted edge-cut if [Formula: see text] is disconnected and has no isolated vertices. The restricted edge-connectivity [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is the cardinality of a minimum restricted edge-cut of [Formula: see text] if it has any; otherwise [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text] is not a star and its order is at least four, then [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text]. The graph [Formula: see text] is said to be maximally restricted edge-connected if [Formula: see text]; the graph [Formula: see text] is said to be super restricted edge-connected if every minimum restricted edge-cut isolates an edge from [Formula: see text]. The direct product of graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is the graph with vertex set [Formula: see text], where two vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are adjacent in [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we give a sufficient condition for [Formula: see text] to be super restricted edge-connected, where [Formula: see text] is the complete graph on [Formula: see text] vertices.
EVaDe: Efficient and Lightweight Mirai Variants Detection via Approximate Largest Submatrix Search
Authors: Wang Xuguo , Chen Ligeng , Wang Yuyang , Huang Hao , Mao Bing
Published: July 2023

The Mirai botnet, notorious for launching significant Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks and crippling portions of internet services in late 2016, has emerged as a significant threat. Its threat is magnified by the open-source nature of the original Mirai code, which enables a propagation and evolution rate that surpasses traditional malware and frequently defies common sense.

As the primary targets of Mirai attacks, Internet of Things (IoT) devices must promptly adapt to the evolving variations of the Mirai threat scenario. In practice, however, IoT devices are frequently constrained by insufficient security detection resources. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a lightweight framework capable of handling Mirai variants and dynamically updating its rule set in order to effectively counter the threat.

In response to these challenges, we present Efficient and lightweight Mirai Variants Detection (EVaDe), a novel, lightweight framework for detecting Mirai. EVaDe unleashes the power of sample function mining to efficiently automate the generation of detection rules, requiring limited hardware resources while maintaining effectiveness against Mirai and its numerous variants. In addition, to improve the efficacy of rule generation, we propose a sophisticated algorithm designed to optimize the maximum submatrix problem, thereby facilitating the efficient and rapid extraction of malicious rules from the sample group.

We validated the experiments on actual IoT devices with significantly compressed performance overheads. An average sample detection time of 5 ms to make sure the system can be deployed in real production. According to the result, the approach has an average detection rate of 95% for Mirai and its variants, which beats every other well-known piece of commercial antivirus software on the market by 3% to 56%.
NONLINEAR BUCKLING SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF THIN-WALLED LINED COMPOSITE PIPE LINER
Authors: LU ZHAOHONG , HE LINLIN , DU WEIQIANG , XUE JINGHONG
Published: July 2023

In order to study the buckling failure of lining delamination of thin-walled lined composite pipe, a numerical analysis model was established by using bilinear cohesion relationship, the buckling mode and critical load of the composite pipe obtained by linear buckling are taken as reference values, the interlayer initial defects were introduced to carry out the nonlinear buckling analysis on the composite pipe lining structure with thin wall lining. The relative displacement curve and deformation morphology of the relative displacement of the lining with the change of external pressure were obtained, and the results are consistent with the existing test results. Based on this model, the buckling sensitivity of lining pipe was analyzed. The results show that the size of interlayer initial defect is the main factor that affects the critical buckling pressure of liner, but it has little influence on the propagation pressure after buckling; However, the increase of interlayer bonding effect significantly improves the buckling resistance and propagation pressure of lining pipe; The ratio of outer tube wall diameter to thickness and liner thickness have significant effects on the critical buckling pressure of liner. The research results provide a reference for determining the interlayer bonding effect and the optimal design of the minimum thickness of the inner liner.
Games with filters I
Authors: Foreman Matthew , Magidor Menachem , Zeman Martin
Published: July 2023

This paper has two parts. The first is concerned with a variant of a family of games introduced by Holy and Schlicht, that we call Welch games. Player II having a winning strategy in the Welch game of length [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] is equivalent to weak compactness. Winning the game of length [Formula: see text] is equivalent to [Formula: see text] being measurable. We show that for games of intermediate length [Formula: see text], II winning implies the existence of precipitous ideals with [Formula: see text]-closed, [Formula: see text]-dense trees.

The second part shows the first is not vacuous. For each [Formula: see text] between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], it gives a model where II wins the games of length [Formula: see text], but not [Formula: see text]. The technique also gives models where for all [Formula: see text] there are [Formula: see text]-complete, normal, [Formula: see text]-distributive ideals having dense sets that are [Formula: see text]-closed, but not [Formula: see text]-closed.
QCA-Based Design of Novel Low-Power n-Bit Ripple Carry Incrementer and Ripple Carry Decrementer
Authors: Chandra Das Jadav , Debnath Bikash , De Debashis
Published: July 2023

This study demonstrates the development of an innovative [Formula: see text]-bit less power ripple carry incrementer (RCI) and decrementer (RCD) circuit, respectively, devised using quantum dot cellular automata (QCA). In order to increment or decrement two numbers, RCI and RCD are essential. With a revised configuration of the AND gate, half adder, and XOR gate circuit, the suggested ripple carry incrementer and decrementer circuits are realized. Modern designs for the XOR and half adder are contrasted with these freshly created ones. Circuits are designed using QCA designer 2.0.3. The 4-bit RCI, 8-bit RCI, and 16-bit RCI as well as 4-bit RCD, 8-bit RCD, and 16-bit RCD simulation results are compared to the theoretical findings.
Smartphone Screens as Astrometric Calibrators
Authors: Walk Aidan , Claveau Charles-Antoine , Bottom Michael , Chun Mark , Jacobson Shane , Service Maxwell , Lu Jessica R.
Published: July 2023

Geometric optical distortion is a significant contributor to the astrometric error budget in large telescopes using adaptive optics. To increase astrometric precision, optical distortion calibration is necessary. We investigate using smartphone Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) screens as astrometric calibrators. Smartphones are low-cost, have stable illumination, and can be quickly reconfigured to probe different spatial frequencies of an optical system’s geometric distortion. In this work, we characterize the astrometric accuracy of a Samsung S20 smartphone, with a view towards providing large format, flexible astrometric calibrators for the next generation of astronomical instruments. We find the placement error of the pixels to be 189[Formula: see text]nm ± 15[Formula: see text]nm Root Mean Square (RMS). At this level of error, milliarcsecond astrometric accuracy can be obtained on modern astronomical instruments.
Survey on Activation Functions for Optical Neural Networks
Authors: Destras Oceane , Le Beux Sébastien , De Magalhães Felipe Gohring , Nicolescu Gabriela
Published: July 2023

Integrated photonics arises as a fast and energy-efficient technology for the implementation of artificial neural networks (ANNs). Indeed, with the growing interest in ANNs, photonics shows great promise to overcome current limitations of electronic-based implementation. For example, it has been shown that neural networks integrating optical matrix multiplications can potentially run two orders of magnitude faster than their electronic counterparts. However, the transposition in the optical domain of the activation functions, which is a key feature of ANNs, remains a challenge. There is no direct optical implementation of state-of-the-art activation functions. Currently, most designs require time-consuming and power-hungry electro-optical conversions. In this survey, we review both all-optical and opto-electronic activation functions proposed in the state-of-the-art. We present activation functions with their key characteristics, and we summarize challenges for their use in the context of all-optical neural networks. We then highlight research directions for the implementation of fully optical neural networks.
Assessing Electrolyte Fluorination Impact on Calendar Aging of Blended Silicon-Graphite Lithium-Ion Cells Using Potentiostatic Holds
Authors: Verma Ankit , Schulze Maxwell C. , Colclasure Andrew , Rodrigues Marco-Tulio Fonseca , Trask Stephen E , Pupek Krzysztof , Johnson Christopher S. , Abraham Daniel P.
Published: July 2023

Silicon-based lithium-ion batteries have started to meet cycle life metrics, but they exhibit poor calendar life. Here, electrolyte fluorination impact on calendar fade of blended silicon-graphite anodes is explored using a LiPF6 in EC:EMC:FEC electrolyte vs LiBOB in EC:EMC electrolyte. We utilize a combined experimental-modeling approach applying potentiostatic voltage holds (V-hold) to evaluate electrolyte suitability for calendar life in a shortened testing timeframe (∼2 months). Our theoretical framework deconvolutes the irreversible parasitic capacity losses (lithium lost to the solid electrolyte interphase) from the V-hold electrochemical data. Unfluorinated electrolyte (dominant LiBOB reduction) exhibits higher cell resistance as compared to fluorinated electrolyte (dominant FEC reduction). Both systems have similar irreversible capacities during the voltage hold duration with slower rate of parasitic capacity loss for the LiBOB system. Extrapolation of the parasitic losses to end of life capacity fade of 20% shows LiBOB electrolyte outperforming LiPF6 electrolyte in calendar life. The results demonstrate the applicability of the V-hold protocol as a rapid material screening tool providing semi-quantitative calendar lifetime estimates.
Red Electroluminescence from Light Emitting Diodes Based on Eu-Doped ZnO Embedded in p-GaN/Al2O3/n-ZnO Heterostructures
Authors: Tatebayashi Jun , Nishimura Kazuto , Ichikawa Shuhei , Yamada Shinya , Nakajima Yoshikata , Sato Kazuhisa , Hamaya Kohei , Fujiwara Yasufumi
Published: July 2023

Heterojunction p-GaN/n-ZnO light emitting diode (LED) structure using Eu-doped ZnO (ZnO:Eu) as an active component is demonstrated in order to realize low-cost and environmentally-friendly red LEDs with sharp linewidth and temperature stability against surrounding environment including operating temperature and injection current. Chemically stable Al2O3 is inserted as an electron blocking layer between p-GaN and ZnO:Eu/n-ZnO in order to facilitate the injection of carriers into the ZnO:Eu active layer. Al2O3 insertion with a moderate thickness (∼10 nm) facilitates the carrier recombination at the ZnO layer with comparatively low resistivity. Device characteristics of the p-GaN/Al2O3/ZnO:Eu/n-ZnO LED structures show red luminescence under current injection with reversed bias voltage originated from Eu3+ ions in the ZnO host. Detailed optical characteristics of the ZnO:Eu layer in the LED structures utilizing the combined excitation emission spectroscopy measurement enable the identification of the luminescence centers contributing to Eu luminescence under both indirect excitation and collisional excitation. The luminescence center contributing to Eu luminescence under indirect excitation via the ZnO host is different from that under collisional excitation, which would pave the way to understand the Eu luminescence mechanism in ZnO:Eu, and hence realize high-brightness LED structures based on rare-Earth doped ZnO as an active component.
Mitochondria of lung venular capillaries mediate lung-liver cross talk in pneumonia
Authors: Emin Memet T. , Lee Michael J. , Bhattacharya Jahar , Hough Rebecca F.
Published: July 2023

We report that mitochondrial injury in lung venular capillaries underlies barrier failure in pneumonia, and venular capillary uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) causes neutrophil-mediated liver congestion. Using in situ imaging, we found that epithelial-endothelial transfer of H2O2 activates UCP2, depolarizing mitochondria in venular capillaries. The conceptual advance from our findings is that mitochondrial depolarization in lung capillaries mediates liver cross talk through circulating neutrophils. Pharmacologic blockade of UCP2 could be a therapeutic strategy for lung injury.
Online Fault Prediction Based on Collaborative Filtering in Smart Grid
Authors: Wang Kaixuan , Liang Zikai , Xing Ningzhe , Li Baozhu
Published: July 2023

Smart grid, responsible for upgrading traditional power networks by integrating with cutting‐edge information and communication networks, forms coupled networks but also pose potential hazards in the face of fault cascade. In coupled networks, fault prediction is of significance because tight interaction between power nodes and communication nodes makes the smart grid more vulnerable. Unfortunately, most existing works of fault prediction are specific to a single network and do not consider the correlation of coupled elements. To address these limitations, in this paper, we highlight the interdependence of networks and define fault correlation. Further, we propose a probabilistic prediction model using collaborative filtering in machine learning. We finally present an online prediction algorithm. We conduct experiments to illustrate the effectiveness of our prediction algorithm with different parameters and give some observations that may give more insight into interdependent networks.
Building an Immune-Related Genes Model to Predict Treatment, Extracellular Matrix, and Prognosis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yushi , Feng Yang , Liu Qin , Yin Ji , Cheng Chenglong , Fan Cheng , Xuan Chenhui , Yang Jun
Published: July 2023

Due to the considerable heterogeneity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), individuals with comparable TNM stages who receive the same treatment strategy have varying prognostic outcomes. In HNSCC, immunotherapy is developing quickly and has shown effective. We want to develop an immune-related gene (IRG) prognostic model to forecast the prognosis and response to immunotherapy of patients. In order to analyze differential expression in normal and malignant tissues, we first identified IRGs that were differently expressed. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify modules that were highly related, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were also used to create a predictive model for IRGs that included nine IRGs. WGCNA identified the four most noteworthy related modules. Patients in the model’s low-risk category had a better chance of survival. The IRGs prognostic model was also proved to be an independent prognostic predictor, and the model was also substantially linked with a number of clinical characteristics. The low-risk group was associated with immune-related pathways, a low incidence of gene mutation, a high level of M1 macrophage infiltration, regulatory T cells, CD8 T cells, and B cells, active immunity, and larger benefits from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy. The high-risk group, on the other hand, had suppressive immunity, high levels of NK and CD4 T-cell infiltration, high gene mutation rates, and decreased benefits from ICI therapy. As a result of our research, a predictive model for IRGs that can reliably predict a patient’s prognosis and their response to both conventional and immunotherapy has been created.
Performance Evaluation of Hospital Waste Ash-Modified Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Oguntayo Daniel , Ogundipe Olumide , Aladegboye Oluwasegun , Ogunkunbi Gabriel , Babatunde Yusuf , Aransiola Olawale
Published: July 2023

Using waste materials in road construction is a sustainable technique that will promote waste reduction, a cleaner environment, cost savings in road construction projects, and serve as an alternative material. This study evaluated the performance of hospital waste ash (HWA) modified asphalt mixtures. The modified asphalt mixtures were produced using HWA as mineral filler at 0%–100% at an interval of 10% by weight. The performance of the mixtures was evaluated with the Marshall, Cantabro, and retained strength index (RSI) tests. The Marshall parameters indicate that the modified asphalt mixtures met the General Specification for Roads and Bridges of Nigeria with satisfactory results. Except for mixes prepared with 90% and 100%, HWA-modified mixtures fulfill the RSI and Cantabro durability requirement at up to 80% filler content. However, to ensure the optimum performance of the HWA-modified asphalt mixtures, a 40% HWA is recommended.
Clinical Distribution Characteristics and Identification for Significant Liver Inflammation of Patients in Chronic Hepatitis B with Indeterminate Phase
Authors: Chen Shanshan , Dai Xuan , Zhao Yueyue , Li Jie , Zou Xuehan , Huang Haijun
Published: July 2023

Aim. In clinical practice, a considerable proportion of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who do not conform to any immune status are considered to be in the “indeterminate phase”. In this study, we aim to study the clinical distribution characteristics and identification of significant liver inflammation in patients in indeterminate phase. Methods. This study retrospectively analyze clinical data of 1226 patients with CHB at two medical centers in Zhejiang province. According to American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) 2018 hepatitis B guidance, CHB can be divided into four phases: immune-tolerant phase, HBeAg-positive immune active phase, inactive phase, and HBeAg-negative immune active phase. Liver inflammation grade was evaluated using the Scheuer scoring system, and significant liver inflammation was defined as

G
≥
2

. Results. The distribution of different immune status was as follows: 259 (21.1%) patients in immune-tolerant phase, 365 (29.8%) patients in HBeAg-positive immune active phase, 128 (10.4%) patients in inactive phase, and 33 (2.7%) patients in HBeAg-negative immune active phase. However, 441 (36.0%) patients did not meet any of the above immune phases, which were defined as indeterminate phase. Significant liver inflammation (54.1%) was common in CHB patients with indeterminate phase. Prothrombin time (PT), platelet count (PLT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and hepatitis B virus (HBV)-DNA were associated with significant inflammation. Conclusions. The results of this study showed that about 36.0% of patients were divided into indeterminate phase. The proportion of patients with significant inflammation in indeterminate phase and liver inflammation becomes more severe with aggravation of fibrosis stage. PT, PLT, ALT, and HBV-DNA may have a significant correlation with severe inflammation and prognosis of CHB.
Intratumoral Microbiota Composition Regulates Chemoimmunotherapy Response in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Hong , Leng Xuefeng , Liu Qianshi , Mao Tianqin , Jiang Tao , Liu Yiqiang , Li Feifei , Cao Chenhui , Fan Jun , Chen Liang , Chen Yaqi , Yao Quan , Lu Shun , Liang Renchuan , Hu Lanlin , Liu Mingxin , Wan Yejian , Li Zhaoshen , Peng Jun , Luo Qiyu , Zhou Hang , Yin Jun , Xu Ke , Lan Mei , Peng Xinhao , Lan Haitao , Li Gang , Han Yongtao , Zhang Xia , Xiao Zhi-Xiong Jim , Lang Jinyi , Wang Guihua , Xu Chuan
Published: July 2023

Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (NACI) has shown promise in the treatment of resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The microbiomes of patients can impact therapy response, and previous studies have demonstrated that intestinal microbiota influences cancer immunotherapy by activating gut immunity. Here, we investigated the effects of intratumoral microbiota on the response of patients with ESCC to NACI. Intratumoral microbiota signatures of β-diversity were disparate and predicted the treatment efficiency of NACI. The enrichment of Streptococcus positively correlated with GrzB+ and CD8+ T-cell infiltration in tumor tissues. The abundance of Streptococcus could predict prolonged disease-free survival in ESCC. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrated that responders displayed a higher proportion of CD8+ effector memory T cells but a lower proportion of CD4+ regulatory T cells. Mice that underwent fecal microbial transplantation or intestinal colonization with Streptococcus from responders showed enrichment of Streptococcus in tumor tissues, elevated tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, and a favorable response to anti-PD-1 treatment. Collectively, this study suggests that intratumoral Streptococcus signatures could predict NACI response and sheds light on the potential clinical utility of intratumoral microbiota for cancer immunotherapy.

Significance:

Analysis of intratumoral microbiota in patients with esophageal cancer identifies a microbiota signature that is associated with chemoimmunotherapy response and reveals that Streptococcus induces a favorable response by stimulating CD8+ T-cell infiltration.

See related commentary by Sfanos, p. 2985
Clec4A4 Acts as a Negative Immune Checkpoint Regulator to Suppress Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Uto Tomofumi , Fukaya Tomohiro , Mitoma Shuya , Nishikawa Yotaro , Tominaga Moe , Choijookhuu Narantsog , Hishikawa Yoshitaka , Sato Katsuaki
Published: July 2023

Clec4A4 is a C-type lectin receptor (CLR) exclusively expressed on murine conventional dendritic cells (cDC) to regulate their activation status. However, the functional role of murine Clec4A4 (mClec4A4) in antitumor immunity remains unclear. Here, we show that mClec4A4 serves as a negative immune checkpoint regulator to impair antitumor immune responses. Deficiency of mClec4A4 lead to a reduction in tumor development, accompanied by enhanced antitumor immune responses and amelioration of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) mediated through the enforced activation of cDCs in tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, antagonistic mAb to human CLEC4A (hCLEC4A), which is the functional orthologue of mClec4A4, exerted protection against established tumors without any apparent signs of immune-related adverse events in hCLEC4A-transgenic mice. Thus, our findings highlight the critical role of mClec4A4 expressed on cDCs as a negative immune checkpoint molecule in the control of tumor progression and provide support for hCLEC4A as a potential target for immune checkpoint blockade in tumor immunotherapy.
Impact of Diabetes on Myocardial Fibrosis in Patients With Hypertension: The REMODEL Study
Authors: Pua Chee Jian , Loo Germaine , Kui Michelle , Moy Wai Lun , Hii An-An , Lee Vivian , Chin Chee-Tang , Bryant Jennifer A. , Toh Desiree-Faye , Lee Chi-Hang , Cook Stuart A. , Richards A. Mark , Le Thu-Thao , Chin Calvin W.L.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Compared with patients with hypertension only, those with hypertension and diabetes (HTN/DM) have worse prognosis. We aimed to characterize morphological differences between hypertension and HTN/DM using cardiovascular magnetic resonance; and compare differentially expressed proteins associated with myocardial fibrosis using high throughput multiplex assays.

METHODS:

Asymptomatic patients underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance: 438 patients with hypertension (60±8 years; 59% males) and 167 age- and sex-matched patients with HTN/DM (60±10 years; 64% males). Replacement myocardial fibrosis was defined as nonischemic late gadolinium enhancement on cardiovascular magnetic resonance. Extracellular volume fraction was used as a marker of diffuse myocardial fibrosis. A total of 184 serum proteins (Olink Target Cardiovascular Disease II and III panels) were measured to identify unique signatures associated with myocardial fibrosis in all patients.

RESULTS:

Despite similar left ventricular mass (
P
=0.344) and systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.086), patients with HTN/DM had increased concentricity and worse multidirectional strain (
P
<0.001 for comparison of all strain measures) compared to hypertension only. Replacement myocardial fibrosis was present in 28% of patients with HTN/DM compared to 16% of those with hypertension (
P
<0.001). NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) was the only protein differentially upregulated in hypertension patients with replacement myocardial fibrosis and independently associated with extracellular volume. In patients with HTN/DM, GDF-15 (growth differentiation factor 15) was independently associated with replacement myocardial fibrosis and extracellular volume. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis demonstrated a strong association between increased inflammatory response/immune cell trafficking and myocardial fibrosis in patients with HTN/DM.

CONCLUSIONS:

Adverse cardiac remodeling was observed in patients with HTN/DM. The novel proteomic signatures and associated biological activities of increased immune and inflammatory response may partly explain these observations.
Lessons from the Evolutionary Computation Bestiary
Authors: Campelo Felipe , Aranha Claus
Published: July 2023

The field of metaheuristics has a long history of finding inspiration in natural systems, starting from evolution strategies, genetic algorithms, and ant colony optimization in the second half of the 20th century. In the last decades, however, the field has experienced an explosion of metaphor-centered methods claiming to be inspired by increasingly absurd natural (and even supernatural) phenomena—several different types of birds, mammals, fish and invertebrates, soccer and volleyball, reincarnation, zombies, and gods. Although metaphors can be powerful inspiration tools, the emergence of hundreds of barely discernible algorithmic variants under different labels and nomenclatures has been counterproductive to the scientific progress of the field, as it neither improves our ability to understand and simulate biological systems nor contributes generalizable knowledge or design principles for global optimization approaches. In this article we discuss some of the possible causes of this trend, its negative consequences for the field, and some efforts aimed at moving the area of metaheuristics toward a better balance between inspiration and scientific soundness.
Maximal Memory Capacity Near the Edge of Chaos in Balanced Cortical E-I Networks
Authors: Kanamaru Takashi , Hensch Takao K. , Aihara Kazuyuki
Published: July 2023

We examine the efficiency of information processing in a balanced excitatory and inhibitory (E-I) network during the developmental critical period, when network plasticity is heightened. A multimodule network composed of E-I neurons was defined, and its dynamics were examined by regulating the balance between their activities. When adjusting E-I activity, both transitive chaotic synchronization with a high Lyapunov dimension and conventional chaos with a low Lyapunov dimension were found. In between, the edge of high-dimensional chaos was observed. To quantify the efficiency of information processing, we applied a short-term memory task in reservoir computing to the dynamics of our network. We found that memory capacity was maximized when optimal E-I balance was realized, underscoring both its vital role and vulnerability during critical periods of brain development.
Taxonomic notes on Thrixspermum (Orchidaceae: Aeridinae), with five new species from Thailand
Authors: TOOLMAL NOPPARUT , SUDDEE SOMRAN , CULHAM ALASTAIR , UTTERIDGE TIMOTHY M. A. , SCHUITEMAN ANDRÉ
Published: July 2023

Five new species of Thrixspermum (Orchidaceae) are described from Thailand, two from sect. Dendrocolla: T. alboluteum (South-West floristic region), T. praetermissum (East); and three from sect. Thrixspermum: T. simile (South-East), T. flammeum (East), T. polystictum (East). Descriptions, illustrations, notes on distribution, ecology, phenology, conservation status, and morphological comparisons with allied species are provided. Thrixspermum musciflorum and its variety nilagiricum are reduced to the synonymy of T. formosanum. Thrixspermum album is reduced to the synonymy of T. pulchellum. We select a lectotype and an epitype for T. trichoglottis (Hook.f.) Kuntze and provide a detailed description of this common but so far incompletely known species.
Climatic conditions may structure the distribution of Syzygiella rubricaulis (Nees) Steph., a disjunct and high elevation species
Authors: COSTA DENISE PINHEIRO , DA ROCHA TAINÁ CARREIRA , DE SIQUEIRA MARINEZ FERREIRA
Published: July 2023

Syzygiella rubricaulis is a widely distributed species in the high mountains of tropical America and in addition occurs on the Azores. In order to unravel the climatic environment of S. rubricaulis populations, we compiled georeferenced data from verified herbarium specimens, GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility – www.gbif.org) and species Link (www.splink.org.br) databases, as well as climatic data from Worldclim, to determine the climatic signals structuring the populations. We analyzed the disjunct range of Syzygiella rubricaulis from a climatic perspective. We used cluster analysis and principal components analysis (PCA) with climatic variables to clarify how climate may be structuring populations and which variables make the largest contributions to dataset variations. We recovered three major strongly supported groups of S. rubricaulis. Water vapour pressure, minimum temperature of the coldest month, annual precipitation, and precipitation of the wettest month explained variation patterns in the dataset best. We also provide a detailed dataset characterization of all records compiled in the present study. Our findings provide new insight into how climate structures the distribution of S. rubricaulis populations. Precipitation variables play an important role in determining the observed distribution patterns of the species and are suggestive of future alteration of its geographic distribution in response to climate change.
Improving High-Resolution Ensemble Forecast (HREF) System Mesoscale Snowband Forecasts with Random Forests
Authors: Radford Jacob T. , Lackmann Gary M.
Published: July 2023

Mesoscale snowbands are impactful winter weather phenomena but are challenging to predict due to small-scale forcings and ingredients. Previous work has established that even deterministic convection-allowing models (CAMs) often struggle to represent these features with much precision and recommended the application of ingredients-based or probabilistic forecast strategies. Based on these recommendations, we develop and evaluate four different models for forecasting snowbands. The first model, referred to as the “HREF threshold probability” model, detects band development in High-Resolution Ensemble Forecast (HREF) system members’ 1000-m simulated reflectivities, then uses these detections to calculate a snowband probability. The second model is a random forest incorporating features explicitly linked to snowbands, such as the detection of bands in each HREF member and statistical summaries of simulated reflectivity and the categorical snow field. The third model is a random forest model incorporating snowband ingredients, such as midtropospheric frontogenesis, moist symmetric stability, and vertical velocity. Last, the fourth model combines the features of the explicit and implicit random forests. Binary band predictions based upon the HREF threshold probability model resulted in a critical success index 27% higher than the average HREF member. The explicit feature random forest model further improved performance by an additional 11%, with statistics of the reflectivity field holding the most predictive value. The implicit and combined random forests slightly underperformed the explicit random forest, perhaps due to a large number of noisy, correlated features. Ultimately, we demonstrate that simple probabilistic snowband forecasting strategies can yield substantial improvements over deterministic CAMs.

Significance Statement

Mesoscale snowbands have the potential for major societal impacts but are difficult to predict due to their small spatial scales. Previous work has shown that individual high-resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) models struggle to predict whether or not a snowband will occur. In this work, we evaluate whether a probabilistic forecast strategy using high-resolution ensemble NWP output leads to improved snowband forecasts, and whether we can gain additional predictive skill by combining this output with artificial intelligence (AI) methods. AI can also help us understand the environmental factors associated with snowbands and compare environmental importance in forecasting to just using the model output snowfall forecasts explicitly.
Between Family, Nation, and Scholarship: Negotiating Ancestral Origins in Post-1945 South Korea
Authors: Kim Nuri
Published: July 2023

Although kinship groups have lost some of their prominence in South Korea, this article investigates how they continue to act as significant producers of historical knowledge in the present. Especially in writing histories of their own ancient origins, kinship groups have constructed narratives that clash with national histories or the scholarly consensus. This article sheds light on how kinship groups navigate countervailing narratives and reassert their epistemological agency through their own production of scholarship. Through this study, kinship groups emerge as potent sources of alternative knowledge that amplifies the plurality and contentiousness of historical knowledge in Korea.
Hydroxychloroquine ameliorates dasatinib-induced liver injury via decrease in hepatic lymphocytes infiltration
Authors: Alhazzani Khalid , Alrewily Salah Q , Aljerian Khaldoon , Alhosaini Khaled , Algahtani Mohammad M. , Almutery Mohammed Fhad , Alhamed Abdullah S , Nadeem Ahmed , Alotaibi Moureq R. , Alanazi Ahmed Z.
Published: July 2023

Dasatinib is an effective treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia. However, cases of idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity were reported. This study was conducted to investigate the chemopreventive effects of hydroxychloroquine against dasatinib-induced hepatotoxicity. Balb/c mice were randomly assigned into four groups; vehicle control (5% DMSO, i.p., n = 6), dasatinib (50 mg/kg; i.p., n = 6), hydroxychloroquine (10 mg/kg, i.p., n = 6), and hydroxychloroquine + dasatinib (10 mg/kg + 50 mg/kg; i.p., n = 6). Treatments were given once every 2 days for 14 days. Serum and histopathological assessments of liver architecture and fibrosis were performed using H&E, Masson’s trichrome, and reticulin staining. The infiltration of lymphocytes was assessed using immunohistochemistry. The gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD-2, GPX-1) was assessed using real-time quantitative PCR. Dasatinib showed a significant increase in liver injury biomarkers (AST and ALT) with higher lymphocytes infiltration (as indicated by CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD20+ immunohistochemistry). Hepatic tissue of Dasatinib group exhibited significant downregulation in the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD-2, and GPX-1) compared to the control group. However, the combination of hydroxychloroquine with dasatinib showed a slight increase in AST and ALT. Also, hydroxychloroquine + dasatinib treated mice showed a significant reduction in lymphocytes infiltration as compared to dasatinib. The results showed that dasatinib induces an immune response leading to an increase in lymphocytes infiltration which promotes hepatocyte destruction and persistent liver injury. The results also suggest that hydroxychloroquine ameliorates dasatinib-induced hepatotoxicity via reduction in hepatic infiltration of T and B immune cells.
The Impact of Equity Analysts on ESG Performance: Evidence from an Exogenous Shock
Authors: Fiorillo Paolo , Gangi Francesco , Meles Antonio , Mustilli Mario , Salerno Dario
Published: July 2023

This article investigates whether equity analysts promote or discourage environmental, social and governance (ESG) engagement by using an international sample of firms incorporated in 46 countries. To establish causality, we rely on two natural experiments, that is, brokerage mergers and closures, which generate an exogenous coverage termination. We find that the loss of an equity analyst results, on average, in an increase in the ESG score. This finding is consistent with the view that equity analysts exacerbate managerial myopia, encouraging listed firms’ managers to excessively focus on short-term outcomes. We also find that the impact of analyst loss on the ESG performance holds only for companies whose managers pay more attention to not miss earnings targets and for firms located in countries where the cultural orientation to long-term growth (rather than short-term results) is stronger. Finally, by decomposing the ESG score into its various sub-pillars, we observe that the impact of analyst loss is driven by the Environmental and Social dimensions, while no significant impact is found for the Governance dimension.
Opera trainees’ cognitive functioning is associated with physiological stress during performance
Authors: Motamed Yeganeh Negin , McKee Taylor , Werker Janet F. , Hermiston Nancy , Boyd Lara A. , Cui Anja-Xiaoxing
Published: July 2023

In an opera performance, singers must perform difficult musical repertoire at a high level while dealing with the stress of standing before a large audience. Previous literature suggests that individuals with better cognitive functions experience less stress. During a music performance such functions, especially attention, memory, and executive function, are in high demand, suggesting that cognitive functions may play a role in music performance. This study used physiological and cognitive measures to examine this phenomenon in opera performance. Cardiac activity data were collected from 24 opera trainees during a resting-state period before and during a real-life performance. Heart-rate variability (HRV) was used as an indicator of physiological stress, such that higher HRV indicates lower stress. Standardized neuropsychological tests were used to measure attention (IVA-2), memory (CVLT-3, WMS-IV), and executive function (Trail Making Test). Results showed cognitive function- and state-specific relationships between HRV and cognitive function: HRV during the resting state had a positive correlation with attention, while HRV during a performance had a positive correlation with executive function. These results suggest that greater cognitive function is related to lower stress during opera performance. The findings of this study provide initial evidence for a relationship between cognitive functions and music performance stress in opera trainees.
Study on energy excitation effect and structure optimization of vibratory vibrator considering captured road
Authors: Huang Zhiqiang , Wang Ruohao , He Lei , Fu Mingwei , Xi Yuxi
Published: July 2023

This paper focuses on the influence of road weight captured by vibration on vibratory vibrator energy excitation and the optimization of vibratory vibrator baseplate when there is road instead of direct contact between baseplate and the ground. For this purpose, based on the vibration attenuation formula of the foundation surface, the variation law of the captured road weight is obtained. The excitation dynamics model considering the captured road weight is constructed and verified. The energy excitation effect of vibration system is analyzed. By using topology optimization method, the baseplate is optimized, and the comparative study of vibratory vibrator excitation effect before and after optimization is carried out. In the process of energy transmission of the vibrator, the reaction mass will consume most of the energy, the actual output vibratory wave energy is only 5.5% of the total energy. The octagonal I-steel baseplate can reduce its weight by 442 kg while ensuring its rigidity, and the energy excitation effect is relatively improved by 18.2%. The research will provide a reference for improving the energy excitation effect of vibratory vibrator considering the weight of the captured road.
Effectiveness of peer mentoring and self-monitoring to improve blood pressure control in a vulnerable population in Argentina: Pragmatic randomized open-label controlled trial
Authors: Nejamis Analía , Chaparro Martin , Gibbons Luz , Poggio Rosana , Moyano Daniela Luz , Irazola Vilma
Published: July 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of blood pressure (BP) self-monitoring and peer mentoring to improve the control of hypertension in clinical practice in primary care centers (PCCs) located in low-resource settings in Argentina.

Methods

An individual randomized controlled trial was carried out to test two different approaches based on behavioral interventions in PCCs in Argentina. Hypertensive adults were randomly assigned to one of three arms: BP self-monitoring, peer mentoring, and usual care. The primary outcome was the change in BP values from baseline to the end of follow-up at 3 months. A qualitative approach of participants’ experiences of the peer mentoring arm was also conducted.

Results

A total of 442 participants with hypertension were included in the study. Self-monitoring and peer mentoring interventions did not show a significant difference in BP control compared to usual care. However, this trial showed an improvement regarding antihypertensive medication adherence among those assigned to the peer mentoring intervention compared to the control at the end of follow-up ( p = 0.031).

Discussion

Self-monitoring and peer mentoring interventions did not demonstrate to be effective in BP control compared to usual care. Implementing a peer support strategy was demonstrated to be feasible and effective in improving medication adherence in this population.
Shifting attitudes on animal ‘ownership’: Ethical implications for welfare research and practice terminology
Authors: Henning Julia Sophie Lyn , Costa Ana Goncalves , Fernandez Eduardo Jose
Published: July 2023

The roles companion animals have played in our lives has dramatically changed over the last few decades. At the same time, the terms we use to describe both the people and animals in these human-animal relationships have also changed. One example includes the use of the terms ‘owner’ or ‘guardian’ to refer to the human caretaker. While preferences by society appear to indicate increased interest in referring to companion animal caretakers as ‘guardians’, others have cautioned against its use or attempted to restrict it. Additionally, the use of animal welfare terminology has direct implications for how we conduct both welfare research and practice. Our paper examines the use of ‘owner’ and ‘guardian’ with respect to (1) the implications for changing terminology on the function, clarity and uniformity of their use, and (2) the ethical and welfare impact that coincides with each term’s use. Our goal is to propose terminological considerations that could influence future welfare research, as well as help guide our interactions with companion animals.