bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective analysis of arginase 1 deficiency progression in adults over 5 years at a single metabolic centre
Authors: Sharma Reena , Bassett John , Stepien Karolina M. , Oldham Andrew , Jovanovic Ana , Woodall Alison , Green Diane
Published: September 2024

Background

The clinical presentation of ARG1‐D is characterised by elevated arginine levels leading to neurological and mobility impairments. Information about long‐term outcomes in adults is lacking, which prompted us to undertake a retrospective observational study.

Methods

We extracted ARG1‐D patient data spanning a 5‐year period from electronic health records. Ethical approval was not required for the study. Informed consent was obtained.

Results

We identified nine ARG1‐D patients from consanguineous backgrounds. Age of symptom onset ranged from infancy to age 7 years, age of diagnosis from infancy to 20 years. Patients had paraparesis or altered gait of varying degree and had experienced early ARG1‐D onset. Over 5 years, mobility declined in six (6/9, 67%) patients. Three patients (3/9, 33%) were fully dependent and hoisted. Two (2/9, 22%) reached adulthood before experiencing hyperammonaemia, another one (1/9, 11%) first experienced hyperammonaemia at age 15 years. One patient (1/9, 11%) started on ammonia scavenger therapy in adulthood, one (1/9, 11%) required a second scavenger to be added to their treatment regimen. Two patients (2/9, 22%) had gastrostomy tubes inserted for nutrition and supplements at age 9 years and 15 years. Six patients (6/9, 67%) had raised levels of ALT; of these, four (4/9, 44%) also had elevated AFP. Heterogeneity of ARG1‐D symptoms was evident, suggesting complex genetic and environmental interactions.

Conclusion

ARG1‐D presents significant lifelong challenges with deteriorating mobility and more frequent metabolic crises. Current management strategies are insufficient for preventing progression, highlighting the need for innovative treatments like enzyme replacement and gene therapy.
Kinetic sand! A tale of sandy times
Authors: Ahuja Kanya , Muhammad Umer , Ahuja Kaweeta , Haricharan Ramanathapura , Patel Pratikkumar
Published: September 2024

Kinetic magnetic sand, composed of ultra‐fine sand and dimethicone in a 98%–2% ratio, is a versatile sensory toy known for its moldable properties and structural stability (1). Despite the name, it lacks actual magnetic features. Ingesting kinetic sand can pose risks, including choking and gastrointestinal issues, especially in young children. This case report details a unique incident involving a 3‐year‐old who ingested a significant amount of kinetic sand. Although the sand's ingredients are generally hypoallergenic and nontoxic, its grainy texture presented challenges for retrieval. The patient was closely monitored, and ultimately, the sand passed without complications. While no official guidelines exist for managing such cases, individual assessments, considering factors such as ingestion time, symptoms, and age, are crucial for determining the appropriate course of action, which may range from observation to more invasive procedures like endoscopy or surgery.
Phytotherapeutic Hierarchical PCL‐Based Scaffolds as a Multifunctional Wound Dressing: Combining 3D Printing and Electrospinning
Authors: Unalan Irem , Slavik Benedikt , Buettner Andrea , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on developing hybrid scaffolds incorporating phytotherapeutic agents via a combination of three‐dimensional (3D) printing and electrospinning to enhance mechanical properties and provide antibacterial activity, in order to address the limitations of traditional antibiotics. In this regard, 3D‐printed polycaprolactone (PCL) struts are first fabricated using fused deposition modeling (FDM). Then, alkaline surface treatment is applied to improve the adhesion of electrospun nanofibers. Finally, peppermint oil (PEP) or clove oil (CLV)‐incorporated PCL‐gelatin (GEL) electrospun nanofibers are collected on top of the 3D‐printed PCL scaffolds by electrospinning. Incorporating PEP or CLV into PCL‐GEL electrospun nanofibers enhances the scaffold's layer detachment and adhesion force. In addition, the DPPH free radical scavenging activity assay indicates that incorporating PEP or CLV improves the antioxidant properties of the scaffolds. Further, antibacterial activity results reveal that PEP or CLV incorporated scaffolds exhibit inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. Moreover, anti‐inflammatory assays show that scaffolds reduce the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) released from Raw 264.7 macrophage‐like cells. On the other hand, the phytotherapeutic hierarchical scaffolds have no toxic effect on normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, and PEP or CLV enhance cell attachment and proliferation. Overall, incorporating natural phytotherapeutic agents into hierarchical scaffolds shows promise for advancing wound healing applications.
Good points for scales (and more)
Authors: Matet Pierre
Published: September 2024

Given a scale (in the sense of Shelah's pcf theory), we list various conditions ensuring that a given point is good for the scale.
On a parabolic Monge–Ampère type equation on compact almost Hermitian manifolds
Authors: Kawamura Masaya
Published: September 2024

We investigate a parabolic Monge–Ampère type equation on compact almost Hermitian manifolds and derive a priori gradient and second‐order derivative estimates for solutions to this parabolic equation. These a priori estimates give us higher order estimates and a long‐time solution. Then, we can observe its behavior as .
The Effect of Green Tea Extract on Pulmonary Inflammation in Nanoparticles‐Exposed Mice
Authors: Lee Pureun‐Haneul , An MinHyeok , Hwang DaYeon , Jang An‐Soo
Published: September 2024

Scope

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are air pollutants that exacerbate chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) However, little is known about the mechanism underlying the antipollutant effects of green tea extract (GTE). This study evaluates the efficacy and mechanism of GTE on lung inflammation and fibrosis in mice exposed to TiO2 NPs.

Methods and results

The TiO2 NPs model is induced by having mice inhale TiO2 NPs, while controls receive an equivalent volume of saline. Treatment with oral GTE is initiated after TiO2 NPs inhalation and is given once daily for 4 weeks. Airway resistance and pulmonary inflammation are increased in mice exposed to TiO2 NPs. GTE treatment reduces the airway inflammation and airway resistance, and attenuates the pathological changes including lung fibrosis compared to the mice exposed to TiO2 NPs. With GTE, there are no significant increases in cytokines and immunoglobulin E (IgE) in mice exposed to TiO2 NPs. GTE inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and apoptotic factors induced by TiO2 NPs exposure, and these protective effects of GTE are closely related to the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway.

Conclusion

GTE modulates pulmonary inflammation in mice exposed to air pollutants, suggesting that GTE may be beneficial in respiratory diseases exacerbated by such pollutants.
Elucidating the hemodynamic impact of residual stenosis post‐carotid artery stenting: A numerical study
Authors: Zhang Xianghao , Fan Zhenmin , Zhao Pengfei , Ye Xia , Deng Xiaoyan , Guidoin Robert , Liu Mingyuan
Published: September 2024

Background

Residual stenosis (RS) and hemodynamics demonstrate a significant correlation with postoperative in‐stent restenosis/thrombosis following carotid artery stenting (CAS).

Purpose

This study endeavors to elucidate the potential associations between RS and adverse postoperative hemodynamic factors.

Methods

This study utilized 46 patient‐specific carotid artery models post‐stenting, which were categorized into two groups based on the presence of RS: the normal group (N, n = 23) and the RS group (RS, n = 23). A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the discrepancies in geometry and adverse hemodynamic parameters, alongside investigating the potential correlation between hemodynamic and geometric parameters.

Results

The results reveal that a higher reflux flow volume is discernible in the RS group during low‐velocity phases of the cardiac cycle, concomitant with an augmented extent of areas exposed to oscillatory shear stress and extended particle residence time. Moreover, the adverse hemodynamic parameters exhibit a positive correlation with the degree of stent expansion, stent length in the common carotid artery (CCA), and the distal slope of the RS.

Conclusion

The distal slope and tortuosity of RS significantly influence the development of adverse hemodynamic conditions post‐stenting, exacerbating the hemodynamic environment near the stenosis. Interestingly, while an extended stent length in the internal carotid artery (ICA) region improves hemodynamics by reducing flow disturbance, a longer stent in the CCA significantly worsens these conditions. Hence, it is prudent to analyze the characteristics of the local lesion regions to optimize the strategy for stent implantation.
Multifocal motor neuropathy in Japan: A nationwide survey on prevalence, clinical profiles, and treatment
Authors: Aotsuka Yuya , Misawa Sonoko , Suichi Tomoki , Shibuya Kazumoto , Nakamura Keigo , Kano Hiroki , Otani Ryo , Morooka Marie , Ogushi Moeko , Nagashima Kengo , Sato Yasunori , Kuriyama Nagato , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Aims

Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is a rare disease for which epidemiological and clinical data are limited. We conducted a nationwide survey to determine disease prevalence, incidence, clinical profile, and current treatment status in Japan.

Methods

A nationwide survey was conducted in 2021 using an established epidemiological method. Questionnaires were sent to all neurology and pediatric neurology departments in Japan. An initial questionnaire was administered to determine the number of patients with and incidence of MMN. A second questionnaire was administered to collect detailed clinical information. The European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society 2010 guidelines were used as diagnostic criteria.

Results

The estimated number of patients with MMN was 507. The estimated prevalence was 0.40 per 100,000 individuals. Detailed clinical profiles were available for 120 patients. The male‐to‐female ratio was 2.3:1 and the median onset age was 42 years. The median disease duration at diagnosis was 25 months. Most patients presented with upper limb‐dominant muscle weakness. Motor nerve conduction blocks were found in 62% of patients and positive anti‐GM1 IgM antibody results in 54%. A total of 117 (98%) patients received immunoglobulin therapy, and 91% of them showed improvement. At the time of the last visit (median, 82 months from treatment initiation), 89 (74%) patients were receiving maintenance immunoglobulin therapy. A slight progression of neurological deficits was observed during follow‐up.

Discussion

Most patients with MMN in Japan received induction and maintenance immunoglobulin therapies, which appear to suppress long‐term disease progression.
Application and parameter identification of the Lagrangian‐averaged vorticity deviation vortex detection method in three‐dimensional flows around solid bodies
Authors: Kovács Kinga Andrea , Balla Esztella
Published: September 2024

The main aim of the current study is the detection of vortices in three‐dimensional fluid flow around a circular cylinder and an axial fan with the Lagrangian‐averaged vorticity deviation vortex identification method. Important parameters of the method include the size of the sought vortices and their convexity. Previous research has been conducted for the circular cylinder by the authors, however, only with respect to two‐dimensional geometries. The authors intend to compare the recommendations for the vortex detection parameters (in three dimensions) with those of the previously found results (in two dimensions). The capabilities of the LAVD technique are also tested on a practical example of a flow around an axial fan. With respect to the axial fan, the goal to be achieved is the detection and visualization of the so‐called tip leakage vortex. Comparison with the result of another detection method (Banks' vorticity predictor‐pressure corrector vortex core identification method), provided by a different author will also be performed.
Data‐driven simulation of functional fatigue in shape memory alloy wires
Authors: Harnisch Marius , Bartel Thorsten , Weyergraf Lukas , Menzel Andreas , Schweizer Ben
Published: September 2024

Data‐driven mechanics offers great potential in engineering applications, where the efficient simulation of complex and, in particular, path‐dependent material behavior is often challenging. Within this approach, conventional material models are replaced by data sets containing snapshots of stress, strain and the history of both assumed to be sufficiently accurate representations of the underlying material behavior. Based on these snapshots and on physical admissibility, a distance function is built which is minimized to yield the boundary value problems' solution. The aim of this paper is to apply this framework to accurately simulate the complex behavior of shape memory alloy wires under cyclic loading, under which these materials exhibit a degradation of their features, denoted functional fatigue. The constructed synthetic data sets are enriched by real experimental data, showcasing that the data‐driven method is capable of combining both approaches of classic material modeling and modern methods which directly incorporate experimental data.
Interconnection of port‐Hamiltonian systems with port‐Hamiltonian neural networks
Authors: Peters Till
Published: September 2024

Port‐Hamiltonian neural networks can be used to capture the interactions between small interconnected port‐Hamiltonian systems from data. We now examine different composed models and check how accurate we can train the modified composed systems. The learning of the dynamics of the composed systems is investigated for cases in which the interconnection is known beforehand and also for cases without knowledge about the interconnection. In the latter cases, only small additional data is required.
Performance assessment of agricultural waste based eco‐friendly brake friction composites
Authors: Kılıç Halil
Published: September 2024

There has been growing interest in using sustainable and eco‐friendly products to produce engineering materials. For this purpose, composite material applications obtained from agricultural wastes are gaining popularity. This study examines the synergistic effect of rice husk and rice stalk wastes on the fade and recovery performance of brake friction composites. Brake friction materials were developed using rice husk and rice stalk separately and in two different weight percentages as a 5–10 ratio in the formulation. For comparison purposes, a reference brake pad using copper as a substitute and a commercially available brake pad were used. Various physical, mechanical and thermal properties were analyzed. The tribological behavior of friction composites was evaluated on the Krauss test device in line with the ECE R90 procedure. The worn surface properties were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Tribo test results of friction composites were taken as criteria for performance optimization. While the importance weight of the criteria was determined by AHP, the VIKOR method was used in the sorting of alternatives. The experimental results have revealed that rice husk‐added friction composites had a good coefficient of friction value with better fade and recovery performance compared to rice stalk‐added ones. Increasing the amount of rice husk and rice stalk in the formulation tended to decrease the fade performance; however, it has increased the wear rate and recovery properties. Optimization results have shown that the brake friction composite containing 5 wt % rice husk ranks first in meeting the desired tribological criteria.

Highlights

Cu‐free rice husk and rice stalk‐added friction composites were developed.

Fibrous structure in the matrix developed the contact plateaus.

Rice husk‐based tribo‐layer protected the composite from further wear damage.

The addition of agro‐waste to friction composites exhibited good potential.
Epoxy‐POSS toughened phenol‐formaldehyde resin adhesive and its enhancement on the interfacial bonding strength of bamboo based composite
Authors: Ji Xiaoxiao , Wang Jinhui , Wang Zhiming , Mao Bowei , Cao Yizhong , Xie Yanjun , Yan Yutao
Published: September 2024

Bamboo‐based composite, being an eco‐friendly green material, has garnered widespread utilization across diverse sectors including construction and domestic appliances owing to its impressive strength, innate aesthetic appeal, and wear resistance. However, it tends to crack at bonding interface between bamboo and the brittle resin adhesive due to stress concentration, reducing its mechanical properties and lifespan. To address this issue, the epoxy‐based polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) was incorporated to modify the phenol‐formaldehyde (PF) resin and improve the interfacial bonding strength. And the results showed that the incorporation of 5% epoxy‐POSS could markedly increase the impact and flexural strength of the modified PF resin by 75.7% and 27.6%, respectively, in contrast to the original PF resin. Moreover, the dry and wet shear strength of bamboo‐PF composites bonded by the POSS modified PF resin adhesive was also apparently improved by 17.03% and 28.55%, respectively. The increased toughness and bonding strength were mainly attributed to the nano‐effect of POSS and good compatibility and cross‐linking reaction with the PF resin, which helped dissipate energy and avoid stress concentration within the PF resin and at the bonding interface. This study aims to address the cracking problem of bamboo‐based composites and extend their longevity in architectural and domestic applications.

Highlights

Epoxy‐POSS disperse well in PF resin due to its unique multi‐epoxy structure.

Epoxy‐POSS can react with PF resin and effectively improve its toughness.

Nano‐effect and cross‐linking effect enable dissipate energy and disperses stress.

Modification increased bonding strength and decreased interfacial cracking.
Influence of thermal history and consolidation force on wedge peel strength of CF/PEEK laminates manufactured by laser‐radiated in‐situ consolidation
Authors: Ma Yonglong , Zhang Zheng , Gao Tian , Pan Baisong , Sun Min , Zhang Guang , Chai Hao , Jiang Shaofei
Published: September 2024

Processing parameters during the laser‐radiated in‐situ manufacturing process change the thermal history of the thermoplastic composite, which affects porosity and fiber‐resin interfacial bonding quality, and hence the wedge peel strength of the laminate. The effect of different laser powers and consolidation forces on the wedge peel strength of the specimens was investigated. Due to the fiber‐rich area on the tape surface during the laser heating phase as well as the insufficient consolidation force and consolidation length during the consolidation phase, the wedge peel strength decreased due to increased porosity and weak fiber‐resin bonding at the interlayer bonding interface. A conformable consolidation roller of lower hardness was used to improve the wedge peel strength of the laminates, which reduced the initial temperature of the cooling phase, thus inhibiting the void rebound and increasing the bonding strength at the fiber‐resin interface. The cross‐section and peeling surface were characterized by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The wedge peel strength of the laminates, with reduced voids and increased interfacial bonding strength between the fibers and the resin, is improved.

Highlights

Mechanism of void formation and evolution in different phases of laser‐radiated in‐situ consolidated laminate.

Effect of consolidation roller hardness and deformation on wedge peel strength.
LLDPE/TiO2 composites with high UV aging resistance and mechanical properties by controlling the alumina coating on TiO2
Authors: Shi Yanqin , Zhao Yiyi , Ma Meng , Chen Si , He Huiwen , Zhu Yulu , Wang Xu
Published: September 2024

For preparing high performance LLDPE film, the photocatalytic activity and the UV absorption capacity of TiO2 were regulated by the alumina coating content on the surface of TiO2. Alumina‐coated TiO2 was prepared by the chemical liquid deposition method, and characterized by element analysis, TGA, FTIR, and morphology observation. The alumina coating layer had been proven to covalently bind to the surface of TiO2 through AlOTi bonds, which formed a continuous and dense coating layer, followed by forming a loose flocculent coating layer with the increase of alumina content. The alumina coating layer could significantly reduce the formation of carbonyl group on the LLDPE chains, and enhance UV aging resistance of LLDPE by inhibiting the photocatalytic activity of TiO2. Moreover, the dispersion of alumina‐coated TiO2 in the LLDPE matrix was improved. Thus, the transmittance of LLDPE/alumina‐coated TiO2 composites was reduced and the whiteness was improved. Importantly, the continuous and dense alumina coating layer was enough to inhibit the photocatalysis effect of TiO2 on LLDPE. The further increase of alumina coating content reduced the UV absorption capacity of alumina‐coated TiO2 and its compatibility with the LLDPE matrix. Therefore, the best alumina coating content on the surface of TiO2 was 1.46 wt% for preparing high performance LLDPE/TiO2 composites.

Highlights

Alumina‐coated TiO2 with controllable coating thickness was successfully synthesized.

LLDPE/alumina‐coated TiO2 has excellent UV aging resistance and mechanical properties.

The photocatalytic activity and UV absorption capacity of TiO2 could be regulated.

1.46 wt% of alumina coating is the best content for high performance LLDPE/TiO2 composites.
Physical Crosslinking of Aqueous Polymer Dispersions: A Perspective
Authors: Ballard Nicholas , Jimenez Nerea , Asua José M.
Published: September 2024

Colloidal polymers, and in particular aqueous polymer dispersions, are widely used in commercial applications such as coatings and adhesives. Historically, the solvent resistance and mechanical properties of these systems have been improved by covalently crosslinking the polymer chains after drying. More recently, work has been directed toward replacing this covalent crosslinking, which typically involves highly reactive functional groups, by physical crosslinking through the use of supramolecular interactions. While conceptually similar to the use of covalent crosslinking, physical crosslinking has a unique influence on the rheology of the polymer, which leads to substantial differences in the development of mechanical strength during drying, as well as the mechanical properties of the final polymer film. In this perspective, the advantages and challenges of this approach are outlined, and an outlook for future research in this direction is provided.
A panel‐based mutational signature of homologous recombination deficiency associates with response to PARP inhibition in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Boiarsky Daniel , Tewari Alok K. , Gulhan Doga C. , Bakouny Ziad , Ananda Guruprasad , Savignano Hunter , Lakshminarayanan Gitanjali , McClure Heather M. , Silver Rebecca , Choueiri Toni K. , Taplin Mary‐Ellen , Park Peter J. , Berchuck Jacob E.
Published: September 2024

Background

The PARP inhibitor (PARPi) olaparib is approved for homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene‐altered metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). However, there is significant heterogeneity in response to PARPi in patients with mCRPC. Better clinical biomarkers are needed to identify patients likely to benefit from PARPi.

Methods

Patients with prostate adenocarcinoma and panel sequencing at Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute were identified. Mutational signature analysis was performed using SigMA to characterize tumors as HRR deficient (HRD). The validity of SigMA to identify patients likely to benefit from olaparib was compared to the current FDA label (presence of a deleterious alteration in one of 14 HRR genes).

Results

546 patients were identified, of which 34% were HRD. Among patients with HRR gene alterations, only patients with BRCA2 two‐copy loss (2CL) were more likely to be HRD compared to patients without HRR gene alterations (74% vs 31%; P = 9.1 × 10‐7). 28 patients with mCRPC received olaparib, of which 13 were HRD and 9 had BRCA2 2CL. SigMA improved upon the current FDA label for predicting PSA50 (sensitivity: 100% vs 90%; specificity: 83% vs 44%; PPV: 77% vs 47%; NPV: 100% vs 89%) and rPFS > 6 months (sensitivity: both 92%; specificity: 93% vs 53%; PPV: 92% vs 63%; NPV: 93% vs 89%). On multivariate analysis, incorporating prognostic clinical factors and HR gene alterations, SigMA‐predicted HRD independently associated with improved PSA‐PFS (HR = 0.086, p = 0.00082) and rPFS (HR = 0.078, p = 0.0070).

Conclusions

SigMA‐predicted HRD may better identify patients likely to benefit from olaparib as compared to the current FDA label. Larger studies are needed for further validation.
Recognition of Molecular Structure of Phosphonium Salts from the Visual Appearance of Material with Deep Learning Can Reveal Subtle Homologs
Authors: Boiko Daniil A. , Arkhipova Daria M. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: September 2024

Determining molecular structures is foundational in chemistry and biology. The notion of discerning molecular structures simply from the visual appearance of a material remained almost unthinkable until the advent of machine learning. This paper introduces a pioneering approach bridging the visual appearance of materials (both at the micro‐ and nanostructural levels) with traditional chemical structure analysis methods. Quaternary phosphonium salts are opted as the model compounds, given their significant roles in diverse chemical and medicinal fields and their ability to form homologs with only minute intermolecular variances. This research results in the successful creation of a neural network model capable of recognizing molecular structures from visual electron microscopy images of the material. The performance of the model is evaluated and related to the chemical nature of the studied chemicals. Additionally, unsupervised domain transfer is tested as a method to use the resulting model on optical microscopy images, as well as test models trained on optical images directly. The robustness of the method is further tested using a complex system of phosphonium salt mixtures. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study offers the first evidence of the feasibility of discerning nearly indistinguishable molecular structures.
Vanadium Carbide Quantum Dots Exert Efficient Anti‐Inflammatory Effects in Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced BV2 Microglia and Mice
Authors: He Zhijun , Yang Qiqi , Li Xiaoqian , Wang Zi , Wen Shengwu , Dong Ming‐Jie , Zhang Weiyun , Gong Youcong , Zhou Zijia , Liu Qiong , Dong Haifeng
Published: September 2024

The regulation of glial cell activation is a critical step for the treatment or prevention of neuroinflammation‐based brain diseases. However, the development of therapeutic drugs that pass the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and inhibit the glia cell activation remains a significant challenge. Herein, an ultrasmall 2D vanadium carbide quantum dots (V2C QDs) that are capable of crossing the BBB are prepared, and the admirable anti‐neuroinflammatory effects are presented. The prepared 2D V2C QDs with an average size of 2.54 nm show good hydrophilicity, physiological stability, and effective BBB‐crossing ability. The biological effect of V2C QDs on inflammatory reactions demonstrates fascinating results in preventing the impairment of learning and memory in BALB/c mice stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. Investigation of molecular mechanism reveals that V2C QDs not only inhibit the toll‐like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor 88‐mediated nuclear factor kappa B and mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways, but also prevent eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α/activating transcription factor 4/C/EBP homologous protein‐signaling pathway and reduce oxidative stress via activating the NF‐E2‐related factor‐2/heme oxygenase‐1‐signaling pathway, leading to greatly inhibited activation of microglia and astrocytes and weakened production of inflammatory cytokines. In summary, V2C QDs exert potent anti‐inflammatory effects through multiple pathways, thus offer great potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Small‐Molecule Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons as Exceptional Long‐Cycle‐Life Li‐Ion Battery Anode Materials
Authors: Arya Avi , Hsu Sih‐Ling , Liu Chi‐You , Chang Meng‐Yuan , Chang Jeng‐Kuei , Li Elise Yu‐Tzu , Su Yu‐Sheng
Published: September 2024

The growing demand for cost‐effective and sustainable energy‐storage solutions has spurred interest in novel anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). In this study, the potential of small‐molecule polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (SMPAHs) as promising candidates for LIB anodes is explored. Through a comprehensive experimental approach involving electrode fabrication, material characterization, and electrochemical testing, the electrochemical performance of SMPAHs, including naphthalene, biphenyl, 9,9‐dimethylfluorene, phenanthrene, p‐terphenyl, and pyrene (Py), is thoroughly investigated. In the results, the impressive cycle stability, high specific capacity, and excellent rate capability of the SMPAH electrode are revealed. Additionally, a direct contact prelithiation strategy is implemented to enhance the initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) of SMPAH anodes, yielding significant improvements in the ICE and cycle stability. Computational simulations provide valuable insights into the electrochemical behavior and lithium‐storage mechanisms of SMPAHs, confirming their potential as effective anode materials. The simulations reveal favorable lithium adsorption sites, the predominant storage mechanisms, and the dissolution mechanism of Py through computational calculations. Overall, in this study, the promise of SMPAHs is highlighted as sustainable anode materials for LIBs, advancing energy‐storage technologies toward a greener future.
Exploring the role of FAT genes in Solanaceae species through genome‐wide analysis and genome editing
Authors: Bahadır Sibel , Abdulla Mohamed Farah , Mostafa Karam , Kavas Musa , Hacıkamiloğlu Safa , Kurt Orhan , Yıldırım Kubilay
Published: September 2024

Plants produce numerous fatty acid derivatives, and some of these compounds have significant regulatory functions, such as governing effector‐induced resistance, systemic resistance, and other defense pathways. This study systematically identified and characterized eight FAT genes (Acyl‐acyl carrier protein thioesterases), four in the Solanum lycopersicum and four in the Solanum tuberosum genome. Phylogenetic analysis classified these genes into four distinct groups, exhibiting conserved domain structures across different plant species. Promoter analysis revealed various cis‐acting elements, most of which are associated with stress responsiveness and growth and development. Micro‐RNA (miRNA) analysis identified specific miRNAs, notably miRNA166, targeting different FAT genes in both species. Utilizing clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9)‐mediated knockout, mutant lines for SlFATB1 and SlFATB3 were successfully generated and exhibited diverse mutation types. Biochemical evaluation of selected mutant lines revealed significant changes in fatty acid composition, with linoleic and linolenic acid content variations. The study also explored the impact of FAT gene knockout on tomato leaf architecture through scanning electron microscopy, providing insights into potential morphological alterations. Knocking out of FAT genes resulted in a significant reduction in both trichome and stoma density. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of FAT genes in Solanaceous species, encompassing genetic, functional, and phenotypic aspects.
Partially Observable Stochastic Games with Neural Perception Mechanisms
Authors: Yan Rui , Santos Gabriel , Norman Gethin , Parker David , Kwiatkowska Marta
Published: September 2024

Stochastic games are a well established model for multi-agent sequential decision making under uncertainty. In practical applications, though, agents often have only partial observability of their environment. Furthermore, agents increasingly perceive their environment using data-driven approaches such as neural networks trained on continuous data. We propose the model of neuro-symbolic partially-observable stochastic games (NS-POSGs), a variant of continuous-space concurrent stochastic games that explicitly incorporates neural perception mechanisms. We focus on a one-sided setting with a partially-informed agent using discrete, data-driven observations and another, fully-informed agent. We present a new method, called one-sided NS-HSVI, for approximate solution of one-sided NS-POSGs, which exploits the piecewise constant structure of the model. Using neural network pre-image analysis to construct finite polyhedral representations and particle-based representations for beliefs, we implement our approach and illustrate its practical applicability to the analysis of pedestrian-vehicle and pursuit-evasion scenarios.
cfaults: Model-Based Diagnosis for Fault Localization in C with Multiple Test Cases
Authors: Orvalho Pedro , Janota Mikoláš , Manquinho Vasco
Published: September 2024

Debugging is one of the most time-consuming and expensive tasks in software development. Several formula-based fault localization (FBFL) methods have been proposed, but they fail to guarantee a set of diagnoses across all failing tests or may produce redundant diagnoses that are not subset-minimal, particularly for programs with multiple faults.

This paper introduces a novel fault localization approach for C programs with multiple faults. CFaults leverages Model-Based Diagnosis (MBD) with multiple observations and aggregates all failing test cases into a unified MaxSAT formula. Consequently, our method guarantees consistency across observations and simplifies the fault localization procedure. Experimental results on two benchmark sets of C programs, TCAS and C-Pack-IPAs, show that CFaults is faster than other FBFL approaches like BugAssist and SNIPER. Moreover, CFaults only generates subset-minimal diagnoses of faulty statements, whereas the other approaches tend to enumerate redundant diagnoses.
Unifying Weak Memory Verification Using Potentials
Authors: Bargmann Lara , Dongol Brijesh , Wehrheim Heike
Published: September 2024

Concurrency verification for weak memory models is inherently complex. Several deductive techniques based on proof calculi have recently been developed, but these are typically tailored towards a single memory model through specialised assertions and associated proof rules. In this paper, we propose an extension to the logic $${\textsf{Piccolo}}$$
Piccolo
to generalise reasoning across different memory models. $${\textsf{Piccolo}}$$
Piccolo
is interpreted on the semantic domain of thread potentials. By deriving potentials from weak memory model states, we can define the validity of $${\textsf{Piccolo}}$$
Piccolo
formulae for multiple memory models. We moreover propose unified proof rules for verification on top of $${\textsf{Piccolo}}$$
Piccolo
. Once (a set of) such rules has been shown to be sound with respect to a memory model $${\textsf{MM}} $$
MM
, all correctness proofs employing this rule set are valid for $${\textsf{MM}}$$
MM
. We exemplify our approach on the memory models $${\textsf{SC}}$$
SC
, $${\textsf{TSO}}$$
TSO
and $${\textsf{SRA}}$$
SRA
using the standard litmus tests Message-Passing and IRIW.
Sound and Complete Witnesses for Template-Based Verification of LTL Properties on Polynomial Programs
Authors: Chatterjee Krishnendu , Goharshady Amir , Goharshady Ehsan , Karrabi Mehrdad , Žikelić Đorđe
Published: September 2024

We study the classical problem of verifying programs with respect to formal specifications given in the linear temporal logic (LTL). We first present novel sound and complete witnesses for LTL verification over imperative programs. Our witnesses are applicable to both verification (proving) and refutation (finding bugs) settings. We then consider LTL formulas in which atomic propositions can be polynomial constraints and turn our focus to polynomial arithmetic programs, i.e. programs in which every assignment and guard consists only of polynomial expressions. For this setting, we provide an efficient algorithm to automatically synthesize such LTL witnesses. Our synthesis procedure is both sound and semi-complete. Finally, we present experimental results demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach and that it can handle programs which were beyond the reach of previous state-of-the-art tools.
The Opacity of Timed Automata
Authors: An Jie , Gao Qiang , Wang Lingtai , Zhan Naijun , Hasuo Ichiro
Published: September 2024

Opacity serves as a critical security and confidentiality property, which concerns whether an intruder can unveil a system’s secret based on structural knowledge and observed behaviors. Opacity in timed systems presents greater complexity compared to untimed systems, and it has been established that opacity for timed automata is undecidable. However, the original proof cannot be applied to decide the opacity of one-clock timed automata directly. In this paper, we explore three types of opacity within timed automata: language-based timed opacity, initial-location timed opacity, and current-location timed opacity. We begin by formalizing these concepts and establishing transformation relations among them. Subsequently, we demonstrate the undecidability of the opacity problem for one-clock timed automata. Furthermore, we offer a constructive proof for the conjecture regarding the decidability of opacity for timed automata in discrete-time semantics. Additionally, we present a sufficient condition and a necessary condition for the decidability of opacity in specific subclasses of timed automata.
A Divide-and-Conquer Approach to Variable Elimination in Linear Real Arithmetic
Authors: Promies Valentin , Ábrahám Erika
Published: September 2024

We introduce a novel variable elimination method for conjunctions of linear real arithmetic constraints. In prior work, we derived a variant of the Fourier-Motzkin elimination, which uses case splitting to reduce the procedure’s complexity from doubly to singly exponential. This variant, which we call FMplex, was originally developed for satisfiability checking, and it essentially performs a depth-first search in a tree of sub-problems. It can be adapted straightforwardly for the task of quantifier elimination, but it returns disjunctions of conjunctions, even though the solution space can always be defined by a single conjunction. Our main contribution is to show how to efficiently extract an equivalent conjunction from the search tree. Besides the theoretical foundations, we explain how the procedure relates to other methods for quantifier elimination and polyhedron projection. An experimental evaluation demonstrates that our implementation is competitive with established tools.
Free Facts: An Alternative to Inefficient Axioms in Dafny
Authors: Bordis Tabea , Leino K. Rustan M.
Published: September 2024

Formal software verification relies on properties of functions and built-in operators. Unless these properties are handled directly by decision procedures, an automated verifier includes them in verification conditions by supplying them as universally quantified axioms or theorems. The use of quantifiers sometimes leads to bad performance, especially if automation causes the quantifiers to be instantiated many times.

This paper proposes free facts as an alternative to some axioms. A free fact is a pre-instantiated axiom that is generated alongside the formulas in a verification condition that can benefit from the facts. Replacing an axiom with free facts thus reduces the number of quantifiers in verification conditions. Free facts are statically triggered by syntactic occurrences of certain patterns in the proof terms. This is less powerful than the dynamically triggered patterns used during proof construction. However, the paper shows that free facts perform well in practice.
The shape of non-graviton operators for SU(2)
Authors: Choi Sunjin , Kim Seok , Lee Eunwoo , Park Jaemo
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The BPS spectrum of AdS/CFT exhibits multi-gravitons at low energies, while having black hole states at higher energies. This can be studied concretely in AdS5/CFT4 in terms of classical cohomologies, even in the quantum regimes at finite 1/N. Recently, Chang and Lin found a threshold for non-graviton states in the SU(2) maximal super-Yang-Mills theory. We explicitly construct and present this threshold cohomology.
Helicity evolution at small x: quark to gluon and gluon to quark transition operators
Authors: Borden Jeremy , Kovchegov Yuri V. , Li Ming
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We include the quark to gluon and gluon to quark shock-wave transition operators into the small Bjorken-x evolution equations for helicity in the flavor-singlet channel derived earlier in [1–3]. While such transitions do not affect the large-Nc version of the evolution equations for helicity, the large-Nc & Nf equations are affected. (Nc and Nf are the numbers of quark colors and flavors, respectively.) We derive the corresponding corrected large-Nc & Nf equations for the polarized dipole amplitudes contributing to the flavor-singlet quark and gluon helicity distributions in the double-logarithmic approximation (DLA), resumming powers of αs ln2(1/x) with αs the strong coupling constant. We solve these equations iteratively and extract the polarized splitting functions up to four loops. We show that our splitting functions agree with the fixed-order perturbative calculations up to and including the existing three-loops results [4–7]. Similar to the large-Nc helicity evolution in the shock-wave approach [8], our large-Nc & Nf small-x splitting functions agree with those obtained in the infrared evolution equations framework from [9, 10] up to three loops, but appear to slightly disagree at four loops.
Analyticity and the Unruh effect: a study of local modular flow
Authors: Sorce Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Unruh effect can be formulated as the statement that the Minkowski vacuum in a Rindler wedge has a boost as its modular flow. In recent years, other examples of states with geometrically local modular flow have played important roles in understanding energy and entropy in quantum field theory and quantum gravity. Here I initiate a general study of the settings in which geometric modular flow can arise, showing (i) that any geometric modular flow must be a conformal symmetry of the background spacetime, and (ii) that in a well behaved class of “weakly analytic” states, geometric modular flow must be future-directed. I further argue that if a geometric transformation is conformal but not isometric, then it can only be realized as modular flow in a conformal field theory. Finally, I discuss a few settings in which converse results can be shown — i.e., settings in which a state can be constructed whose modular flow reproduces a given vector field.
Sterile neutrino dark matter within the νSMEFT
Authors: Fuyuto Kaori , Kumar Jacky , Mereghetti Emanuele , Sandner Stefan , Sun Chen
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Sterile neutrinos with masses at the keV scale and mixing to the active neutrinos offer an elegant explanation of the observed dark matter (DM) density. However, the very same mixing inevitably leads to radiative photon emission and the non-observation of such peaked X-ray lines rules out this minimal sterile neutrino DM hypothesis. We show that in the context of the Standard Model effective field theory with sterile neutrinos (νSMEFT), higher dimensional operators can produce sterile neutrino DM in a broad range of parameter space. In particular, νSMEFT interactions can open the large mixing parameter space due to their destructive interference, through operator mixing or matching, in the X-ray emission. We also find that, even in the zero mixing limit, the DM density can always be explained by νSMEFT operators. The testability of the studied νSMEFT operators in searches for electric dipole moments, neutrinoless double beta decay, and pion decay measurements is discussed.
Fractures of the thoracolumbar spine in osteoporosis
Authors: Komadina Radko , Bloemers Frank W. , Jug Marko , Wendt Klaus W. , Nau Christoph , Pape Hans-Christoph
Published: September 2024

Due to increasing life expectancy, the prevalence of fractures caused by osteoporosis is raising. These fractures significantly reduce the quality of life in the elderly population. They represent both a disease and an injury simultaneously. While they were once treated solely with conservative methods, new techniques and implants are expanding the indications for surgical treatment. This article presents the current treatment options.
Current status of molecular rice breeding for durable and broad-spectrum resistance to major diseases and insect pests
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyan , Zhou Guohua , Chen Wei , Tan Lin , Long Qishi , Cui Fusheng , Tan Lei , Zou Guoxing , Tan Yong
Published: September 2024

In the past century, there have been great achievements in identifying resistance (R) genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) as well as revealing the corresponding molecular mechanisms for resistance in rice to major diseases and insect pests. The introgression of R genes to develop resistant rice cultivars has become the most effective and eco-friendly method to control pathogens/insects at present. However, little attention has been paid to durable and broad-spectrum resistance, which determines the real applicability of R genes. Here, we summarize all the R genes and QTLs conferring durable and broad-spectrum resistance in rice to fungal blast, bacterial leaf blight (BLB), and the brown planthopper (BPH) in molecular breeding. We discuss the molecular mechanisms and feasible methods of improving durable and broad-spectrum resistance to blast, BLB, and BPH. We will particularly focus on pyramiding multiple R genes or QTLs as the most useful method to improve durability and broaden the disease/insect spectrum in practical breeding regardless of its uncertainty. We believe that this review provides useful information for scientists and breeders in rice breeding for multiple stress resistance in the future.