bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromorphic intermediate representation: A unified instruction set for interoperable brain-inspired computing
Authors: Pedersen Jens E. , Abreu Steven , Jobst Matthias , Lenz Gregor , Fra Vittorio , Bauer Felix Christian , Muir Dylan Richard , Zhou Peng , Vogginger Bernhard , Heckel Kade , Urgese Gianvito , Shankar Sadasivan , Stewart Terrence C. , Sheik Sadique , Eshraghian Jason K.
Published: September 2024

Spiking neural networks and neuromorphic hardware platforms that simulate neuronal dynamics are getting wide attention and are being applied to many relevant problems using Machine Learning. Despite a well-established mathematical foundation for neural dynamics, there exists numerous software and hardware solutions and stacks whose variability makes it difficult to reproduce findings. Here, we establish a common reference frame for computations in digital neuromorphic systems, titled Neuromorphic Intermediate Representation (NIR). NIR defines a set of computational and composable model primitives as hybrid systems combining continuous-time dynamics and discrete events. By abstracting away assumptions around discretization and hardware constraints, NIR faithfully captures the computational model, while bridging differences between the evaluated implementation and the underlying mathematical formalism. NIR supports an unprecedented number of neuromorphic systems, which we demonstrate by reproducing three spiking neural network models of different complexity across 7 neuromorphic simulators and 4 digital hardware platforms. NIR decouples the development of neuromorphic hardware and software, enabling interoperability between platforms and improving accessibility to multiple neuromorphic technologies. We believe that NIR is a key next step in brain-inspired hardware-software co-evolution, enabling research towards the implementation of energy efficient computational principles of nervous systems. NIR is available atneuroir.org
Molecular architecture of the assembly of Bacillus spore coat protein GerQ revealed by cryo-EM
Authors: Cheng Yijia , Kreutzberger Mark A. B. , Han Jianting , Egelman Edward H. , Cao Qin
Published: September 2024

Protein filaments are ubiquitous in nature and have diverse biological functions. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) enables the determination of atomic structures, even from native samples, and is capable of identifying previously unknown filament species through high-resolution cryo-EM maps. In this study, we determine the structure of an unreported filament species from a cryo-EM dataset collected from Bacillus amyloiquefaciens biofilms. These filaments are composed of GerQ, a spore coat protein known to be involved in Bacillus spore germination. GerQ assembles into a structurally stable architecture consisting of rings containing nine subunits, which stacks to form filaments. Molecular dockings and model predictions suggest that this nine-subunit structure is suitable for binding CwlJ, a protein recruited by GerQ and essential for Ca2+-DPA induced spore germination. While the assembly state of GerQ within the spores and the direct interaction between GerQ and CwlJ have yet to be validated through further experiments, our findings provide valuable insights into the self-assembly of GerQ and enhance our understanding of its role in spore germination.
A fast-rotator post-starburst galaxy quenched by supermassive black-hole feedback at z = 3
Authors: D’Eugenio Francesco , Pérez-González Pablo G. , Maiolino Roberto , Scholtz Jan , Perna Michele , Circosta Chiara , Übler Hannah , Arribas Santiago , Böker Torsten , Bunker Andrew J. , Carniani Stefano , Charlot Stephane , Chevallard Jacopo , Cresci Giovanni , Curtis-Lake Emma , Jones Gareth C. , Kumari Nimisha , Lamperti Isabella , Looser Tobias J. , Parlanti Eleonora , Rix Hans-Walter , Robertson Brant , Rodríguez Del Pino Bruno , Tacchella Sandro , Venturi Giacomo , Willott Chris J.
Published: September 2024

The most massive galaxies in the Universe stopped forming stars due to the time-integrated feedback from central supermassive black holes (SMBHs). However, the exact quenching mechanism is not yet understood, because local massive galaxies were quenched billions of years ago. Here we present JWST/NIRSpec integral-field spectroscopy observations of GS-10578, a massive, quiescent galaxy at redshift z = 3.064 ± 0.002. From its spectrum, we measure a stellar mass M⋆ = 1.6 ± 0.2 × 1011 M⊙ and a dynamical mass Mdyn = 2.0 ± 0.5 × 1011 M⊙. Half of its stellar mass formed at z = 3.7–4.6, and the system is now quiescent, with a current star-formation rate of less than 19 M⊙ yr−1. We detect ionized- and neutral-gas outflows traced by [O iii] emission and Na i absorption, with mass outflow rates 0.14–2.9 and 30–100 M⊙ yr−1, respectively. Outflow velocities reach vout ≈ 1,000 km s−1, comparable to the galaxy escape velocity. GS-10578 hosts an active galactic nucleus, evidence that these outflows are due to SMBH feedback. The neutral outflow rate is higher than the star-formation rate. Hence, this is direct evidence for ejective SMBH feedback, with a mass loading capable of interrupting star formation by rapidly removing its fuel. Stellar kinematics show ordered rotation, with spin parameter $${\lambda }_{{{{R}}}_{{\rm{e}}}}=0.62\pm 0.07$$

λ

R

e

=
0.62
±
0.07

, meaning GS-10578 is rotation-supported. This study presents direct evidence for ejective active galactic nucleus feedback in a massive, recently quenched galaxy, thus helping to clarify how SMBHs quench their hosts. The high value of $${\lambda }_{{{{R}}}_{{\rm{e}}}}$$

λ

R

e

implies that quenching can occur without destroying the stellar disk.
Sensory adaptation in the barrel cortex during active sensation in the behaving mouse
Authors: Colins Rodriguez Andrea , Loft Michaela S. E. , Schiessl Ingo , Maravall Miguel , Petersen Rasmus S.
Published: September 2024

Sensory Adaptation (SA) is a prominent aspect of how neurons respond to sensory signals, ubiquitous across species and modalities. However, SA depends on the activation state of the brain and the extent to which SA is expressed in awake, behaving animals during active sensation remains unclear. Here, we addressed this question by training head-fixed mice to detect an object using their whiskers and recording neuronal activity from barrel cortex whilst simultaneously imaging the whiskers in 3D. We found that neuronal responses decreased during the course of whisker-object touch sequences and that this was due to two factors. First, a motor effect, whereby, during a sequence of touches, later touches were mechanically weaker than early ones. Second, a sensory encoding effect, whereby neuronal tuning to touch became progressively less sensitive during the course of a touch sequence. The sensory encoding effect was whisker-specific. These results show that SA does occur during active whisker sensing and suggest that SA is fundamental to sensation during natural behaviour.
Integration of Magnetic Nanoparticles into 2D- and 3D-printed Nano-/Microstructures
Authors: Mathew G. , Lemma E. , Hirtz M. , Berganza E.
Published: September 2024

In this chapter, we review the progress in printing microstructures made of magnetic nanoparticles as active elements from self-assembly approaches on substrates to scanning probe lithography for 2D digital pattern generation and more complex 3D microstructure fabrication. Over two decades, dip-pen nanolithography has been developed to create chemical templates to bind nanoparticles, direct-write nanoparticles or synthesize them on the substrate. While 2D printing of magnetic nanoparticles has extensively been explored, additive manufacturing technologies require a further degree of improvement in terms of resolution and optimization of functional materials. However, pioneering work on the fabrication of magnetic-responsive micromachines through vat polymerization techniques has opened the path to this promising new field.
Exploring inhomogeneous surfaces: Ti-rich SrTiO3(110) reconstructions via active learning
Authors: Wanzenböck Ralf , Heid Esther , Riva Michele , Franceschi Giada , Imre Alexander M. , Carrete Jesús , Diebold Ulrike , Madsen Georg K. H.
Published: September 2024

The atomic configurations of the inhomogeneous surfaces are unraveled using an evolutionary strategy backed by a machine-learned neural-network force field. Excellent agreement with scanning tunneling microscopy images is demonstrated.
Design and synthesis of novel 8-(azaindolyl)-benzoazepinones as potent and selective ROCK inhibitors
Authors: Pala Daniele , Clark David , Edwards Christine , Pasqua Elisa , Tigli Laura , Pioselli Barbara , Malysa Piotr , Facchinetti Fabrizio , Rancati Fabio , Accetta Alessandro
Published: September 2024

This study reports a novel, potent and selective series of ROCK inhibitors based on 8-(azaindolyl)-benzoazepinones identified through a core-hopping strategy.
Repurposing of USFDA-approved drugs to identify leads for inhibition of acetylcholinesterase enzyme: a plausible utility as an anti-Alzheimer agent
Authors: Goel Kapil Kumar , Chahal Sandhya , Kumar Devendra , Jaiswal Shivani , Nainwal Nidhi , Singh Rahul , Mahajan Shriya , Rawat Pramod , Yadav Savita , Fartyal Prachi , Ahmad Gazanfar , Jha Vibhu , Dwivedi Ashish Ranjan
Published: September 2024

In the quest to identify new anti-Alzheimer agents, we employed drug repositioning or drug repositioning techniques on approved USFDA small molecules.
Atomic-scale description of 2D Janus MoSO and MoSeO formation: oxidation patterns and band-gap engineering
Authors: Dominguez Godinez Jair Othoniel , Fernández Escamilla Héctor Noé , Quijano Briones José de Jesús , Paez Ornelas José Israel , Peréz Tijerina Eduardo , Ponce-Pérez R. , Hoat D. M. , Guerrero Sánchez Jonathan
Published: September 2024

MoS2 and MoSe2 possess direct band gaps of 1.62 and 1.45 eV, respectively. Both monolayers are prone to oxidation in oxygen-rich environments. We have studied the oxidation process in these 2D systems using first-principles calculations.
Design and comprehensive characterization of dry powder inhalation aerosols of simvastatin DPPC/DPPG lung surfactant-mimic nanoparticles/microparticles for pulmonary nanomedicine
Authors: Encinas-Basurto David , Acosta Maria F. , Eedara Basanth Babu , Fineman Jeffrey R. , Black Stephen M. , Mansour Heidi M.
Published: September 2024

Simvastatin-loaded DPPC/DPPG proliposomes synthesized by spray drying show aerosol dispersion as dry powder inhalers and in vitro sustained delivery.
Investigation of the structural, magnetic, and electrical characteristics of the La0.7Sr0.25Na0.05Mn0.8Ti0.2O3
Authors: Moualhi Y. , Alamri Mona A. , El Kossi S. , Dhahri R. , Al-Syadi A. M. , Elkenany Elkenany Brens , Rahmouni H.
Published: September 2024

This article reveals the crucial structural, magnetic, and electrical properties of La0.7Sr0.25Na0.05Mn0.8Ti0.2O3 (LSNMTO) manganite, highlighting the significance of this material in the field of materials science.
Synthesis, in vitro and in silico study of novel 1,3-diphenylurea derived Schiff bases as competitive α-glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Pasha Anam Rubbab , Ullah Saeed , Khan Ajmal , Halim Sobia Ahsan , Hussain Javid , Rehman Tanzila , Talib Rimsha , Alharthy Rima D. , Kashtoh Hamdy , Abdellattif Magda H. , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Shafiq Zahid
Published: September 2024

Diabetes mellitus has become a major global health burden because of several related consequences, including heart disease, retinopathy, cataracts, metabolic syndrome, collapsed renal function, and blindness.
Synthesis of methyl benzoate intensified by p-toluenesulfonic acid-based deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Jin Dian , Feng Xindi , Sun Li , Zeng Zuoxiang , Liu Zhen
Published: September 2024

The COSMO-RS method is a valuable tool for the preliminary screening of DESs for potential industrial catalysis applications. DESs are effective catalysts with high recyclability, providing a novel approach for green solvents and catalysts.
Optical activity levels of metal centers controlling multi-mode emissions in low-dimensional hybrid metal halides for anti-counterfeiting and information encryption
Authors: Ren Qiqiong , Zhou Guojun , Mao Yilin , Zhang Nan , Zhang Jian , Zhang Xian-Ming
Published: September 2024

The optical activity levels of metal centers govern the multi-mode emissions by manipulating the band alignments in hybrid metal halides.
Sequential reinforcement of intra/interlayer interfaces to design flexible, transparent electromagnetic interference shielding film for “Green Electronics”
Authors: Deng Gao , Sun Xin , Li Xufeng , Li Zhenyang , Zou Haihan , Yi Peng , Fang Ming , Chen Chunyan , He Junzhe , Shui Jianglan , Yu Ronghai , Liu Xiaofang
Published: September 2024

A sequential reinforcement strategy is used to prepare multilayer composite films by enhancing intra/interlayer interactions via physical and chemical bonds. The films show flexibility, transparency, EMI shielding, gas barrier, and fire retardancy.
Enhancement of ionic conductivity in Li argyrodite solid electrolytes with bromide and borohydride anions for all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Seo Hyungeun , Jang Yong-Jin , Yoo Jaeseong , Han Ji-Hoon , Lee Young-Su , Jung Jae Yup , Lee Soeun , Yi Kyung-Woo , Cho Young Whan , Cho Woosuk , Kim Jae-Hun
Published: September 2024

A borohydride-halide substituted argyrodite solid electrolyte exhibits a high ionic conductivity of 14.4 mS cm−1 at room temperature.
Perspectives on systematic optimization of ultrasensitive biosensors through experimental design
Authors: Caputo Mariapia , Tricase Angelo , Marchianò Verdiana , Scandurra Cecilia , Piscitelli Matteo , Sarcina Lucia , Catacchio Michele , Di Franco Cinzia , Bollella Paolo , Torsi Luisa , Macchia Eleonora
Published: September 2024

Biosensors are versatile in many applications, but their adoption as reliable point-of-care tests is hindered by challenges in systematic optimization. Experimental design provides a solution by guiding their effective development and refinement.
Liquid crystal elastomers in soft micro electromechanical systems: a review of recent developments
Authors: Asgari Elaheh , Robichaud Alexandre , Cicek Paul-Vahé , Shih Andy
Published: September 2024

This review paper explores the potential of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) and their ionic counterparts (iLCEs) as versatile materials for soft micro electromechanical systems (MEMS), highlighting their growing interest within the field.
Price and carbon emission reduction technology competition in the electricity supply chain based on power structure
Authors: Chen Wei , Cui Mengyao , Quayson Matthew , Du Heng
Published: September 2024

This study considers the research on electricity pricing and carbon reduction technology decisions of electricity supply chain enterprises under different power structures. It constructs a two-level electricity supply chain game model composed of two electricity producers and a single electricity retailer. By comparing the equilibrium solution results, the main research results are as follows: (1) in the market structure where electricity producers and electricity retailers make decisions at the same time, electricity producers are more willing to invest in low-carbon technologies and increase carbon emission reduction. The electricity retailer also set the lowest electricity prices at this time, and electricity demand is the highest. (2) In the case of the Stackelberg game for electricity producers, the wholesale electricity price is the highest, and the electricity producers obtain the most profits. In the case of the Stackelberg game for electricity retailers, the electricity price is the highest, and the profit of the electricity retailer is the highest. (3) In the market structure dominated by electricity retailers, the electricity price is the highest, and the electricity producers reduce the investment in carbon emission reduction technology after observation; the carbon emission reduction intensity is the least, and the electricity demand is also the least. (4) With the increase of price competition coefficient, the intensity of carbon emission reduction, electricity demand, electricity producers, and electricity retailer profit increase. However, as the competition coefficient of carbon reduction technology increases, these equilibrium solutions decline. We verify the above conclusions using multi-agent simulation.
Strength characteristics of phosphogypsum stabilized soil under dry and wet cycles
Authors: Jian Hao , Chen Kaisheng , Xu Gangmin , Huang Wendong
Published: September 2024

In order to study the strength characteristics of red clay stabilized by a high dosage of phosphogypsum, a mix proportion design was carried out at the ratio of phosphogypsum:red clay = 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, and 1:5 using 4%, 6%, and 8% cement as a curing agent, and this study was carried out through the unconfined compressive strength test, water stability test, California bearing ratio (CBR) test, and durability test. As the phosphogypsum content increases, the unconfined compressive strength of the mix shows a trend of increasing and then decreasing, the unconfined compressive strength of the mixture is the largest when the ratio is 1:3, and with the increase in the number of dry and wet cycles, the unconfined compressive strength of the mixture decreases, and the decay is the largest at 2–3 dry and wet cycles. The higher the phosphogypsum content, the better the water stability performance of the mix. In addition, the CBR value of the mixture can meet the requirements of freeway, primary highway, secondary highway bed, and embankment filler bearing ratio. In this paper, a mix durability test method is proposed to express the mix durability performance in terms of mass loss rate and durability coefficient; the mass loss rate of the mix increases with the increase in the number of wet and dry cycles, and the durability coefficient decreases with the increase in the number of wet and dry cycles; the higher the content of phosphogypsum, the better the durability performance of the mix.
Third- and fifth-order nonlinearities in quantum dot hybrid systems: Influence of graphene and metal nanoparticles
Authors: Maleki Zeynab , Naseri Tayebeh
Published: September 2024

This work examines the third-order and fifth-order nonlinear susceptibilities in a hybrid system including a semiconductor quantum dot, metallic nanoshell, and graphene nanodisk. The research uses the density matrix method to examine the dipole–dipole interaction that occurs due to the applied field. It assumes that there is an increase in the strength of a continuous-wave electromagnetic field inside the quantum dot. The inclusion of the graphene nanodisk greatly amplifies the nonlinear optical reaction of the quantum dot in this combined system, which is governed by the dipole–dipole interaction. The findings indicate a notable disparity in the nonlinear optical reaction of the semiconductor quantum dot when the parameters are modified. The possible applications of this concept include optical sensors, photonic devices, quantum computing, medical imaging, energy harvesting, and high-density data storage. Additionally, it has the potential to progress terahertz technology and simplify the development of new materials with customized optical properties. The substantial rise in nonlinearities inside the hybrid system presents prospects for advancements in diverse technological and scientific domains.
On the development and validation of large language model-based classifiers for identifying social determinants of health
Authors: Gabriel Rodney A. , Litake Onkar , Simpson Sierra , Burton Brittany N. , Waterman Ruth S. , Macias Alvaro A.
Published: September 2024

The assessment of social determinants of health (SDoH) within healthcare systems is crucial for comprehensive patient care and addressing health disparities. Current challenges arise from the limited inclusion of structured SDoH information within electronic health record (EHR) systems, often due to the lack of standardized diagnosis codes. This study delves into the transformative potential of large language models (LLM) to overcome these challenges. LLM-based classifiers—using Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) and A Robustly Optimized BERT Pretraining Approach (RoBERTa)—were developed for SDoH concepts, including homelessness, food insecurity, and domestic violence, using synthetic training datasets generated by generative pre-trained transformers combined with authentic clinical notes. Models were then validated on separate datasets: Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III and our institutional EHR data. When training the model with a combination of synthetic and authentic notes, validation on our institutional dataset yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.78 for detecting homelessness, 0.72 for detecting food insecurity, and 0.83 for detecting domestic violence. This study underscores the potential of LLMs in extracting SDoH information from clinical text. Automated detection of SDoH may be instrumental for healthcare providers in identifying at-risk patients, guiding targeted interventions, and contributing to population health initiatives aimed at mitigating disparities.
Arctic halogens reduce ozone in the northern mid-latitudes
Authors: Fernandez Rafael P. , Berná Lucas , Tomazzeli Orlando G. , Mahajan Anoop S. , Li Qinyi , Kinnison Douglas E. , Wang Siyuan , Lamarque Jean-François , Tilmes Simone , Skov Henrik , Cuevas Carlos A. , Saiz-Lopez Alfonso
Published: September 2024

While the dominant role of halogens in Arctic ozone loss during spring has been widely studied in the last decades, the impact of sea-ice halogens on surface ozone abundance over the northern hemisphere (NH) mid-latitudes remains unquantified. Here, we use a state-of-the-art global chemistry-climate model including polar halogens (Cl, Br, and I), which reproduces Arctic ozone seasonality, to show that Arctic sea-ice halogens reduce surface ozone in the NH mid-latitudes (47°N to 60°N) by ~11% during spring. This background ozone reduction follows the southward export of ozone-poor and halogen-rich air masses from the Arctic through polar front intrusions toward lower latitudes, reducing the springtime tropospheric ozone column within the NH mid-latitudes by ~4%. Our results also show that the present-day influence of Arctic halogens on surface ozone destruction is comparatively smaller than in preindustrial times driven by changes in the chemical interplay between anthropogenic pollution and natural halogens. We conclude that the impact of Arctic sea-ice halogens on NH mid-latitude ozone abundance should be incorporated into global models to improve the representation of ozone seasonality.
Heritable gene editing in tomato through viral delivery of isopentenyl transferase and single-guide RNAs to latent axillary meristematic cells
Authors: Liu Degao , Ellison Evan E. , Myers Erik A. , Donahue Lilee I. , Xuan Shuya , Swanson Ryan , Qi Songyan , Prichard Lynn E. , Starker Colby G. , Voytas Daniel F.
Published: September 2024

Realizing the full potential of genome editing for crop improvement has been slow due to inefficient methods for reagent delivery and the reliance on tissue culture for creating gene-edited plants. RNA viral vectors offer an alternative approach for delivering gene engineering reagents and bypassing the tissue culture requirement. Viruses, however, are often excluded from the shoot apical meristem, making virus-mediated gene editing inefficient in some species. Here, we developed effective approaches for generating gene-edited shoots in Cas9-expressing transgenic tomato plants using RNA virus-mediated delivery of single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs). RNA viral vectors expressing sgRNAs were either delivered to leaves or sites near axillary meristems. Trimming of the apical and axillary meristems induced new shoots to form from edited somatic cells. To further encourage the induction of shoots, we used RNA viral vectors to deliver sgRNAs along with the cytokinin biosynthesis gene, isopentenyl transferase. Abundant, phenotypically normal, gene-edited shoots were induced per infected plant with single and multiplexed gene edits fixed in the germline. The use of viruses to deliver both gene editing reagents and developmental regulators overcomes the bottleneck in applying virus-induced gene editing to dicotyledonous crops such as tomato and reduces the dependency on tissue culture.
Physician–patient racial concordance and newborn mortality
Authors: Borjas George J. , VerBruggen Robert
Published: September 2024

The racial gap in infant mortality is a pressing public-health concern, and [B. N. Greenwood et al.,
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.
117
, 21194–21200 (2020),
10.1073/pnas.1913405117
] suggest that Black newborns are more likely to survive if cared for by Black physicians after birth, even in models that control for numerous variables, including hospital and physician fixed effects, and the 65 most common comorbidities affecting newborns (as described by International Classification of Disease codes). We acquired the data used in the study, covering Florida hospital discharges from 1992 through the third quarter of 2015, to replicate and extend the analysis. We find that the magnitude of the concordance effect is substantially reduced after controlling for diagnoses indicating very low birth weight (<1,500 g), which are a strong predictor of neonatal mortality but not among the 65 most common comorbidities. In fact, the estimated effect is near zero and statistically insignificant in the expanded specifications that control for very low birth weight and include hospital and physician fixed effects.
Agricultural flood resistance enhanced after returning farmlands to lakes
Authors: Liu Ruoqi , Dong Jinwei , Jiang Luguang , Ge Yong , Fan Chang , Yang Tong , Zhang Geli
Published: September 2024

The “Returning Farmland to Lakes” (RFTL) project began in China following the catastrophic 1998 floods. It aims to recover flood storage capacity and mitigate flood risk to agriculture and people. This flood adaptation strategy divides the floodplain into three types of restoration polders with different flood control levels (double restoration polders, single restoration polders, and storage polders) and polders for intensive production and living (nonrestoration polders). During the substantial flooding in the Poyang Lake Basin in 2020, the double and single restoration polders were operated for flood diversion for the first time since 1999. This event provided an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the RFTL project. Using satellite observations of rice planting and flooding areas, we found that 86% of paddy rice areas (3,400 km
2
) in the basin were successfully protected due to the timely flood diversion into different levels of polders. Compared to 1998, the flooded rice areas decreased overall by 58% (18 to 92% in different types of polders). Thus, the RFTL project has enhanced regional agricultural resistance to floods. A more comprehensive assessment of the RFTL project, including other ecosystem services and functions, is necessary in the future for regional sustainable development.
SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8
+
T cells from people with long COVID establish and maintain effector phenotype and key TCR signatures over 2 years
Authors: Rowntree Louise C. , Audsley Jennifer , Allen Lilith F. , McQuilten Hayley A. , Hagen Ruth R. , Chaurasia Priyanka , Petersen Jan , Littler Dene R. , Tan Hyon-Xhi , Murdiyarso Lydia , Habel Jennifer R. , Foo Isabelle J. H. , Zhang Wuji , ten Berge Elizabeth R. V. , Ganesh Hanujah , Kaewpreedee Prathanporn , Lee Kelly W. K. , Cheng Samuel M. S. , Kwok Janette S. Y. , Jayasinghe Dhilshan , Gras Stephanie , Juno Jennifer A. , Wheatley Adam K. , Kent Stephen J. , Rossjohn Jamie , Cheng Allen C. , Kotsimbos Tom C. , Trubiano Jason A. , Holmes Natasha E. , Pang Chan Ken Ka , Hui David S. C. , Peiris Malik , Poon Leo L. M. , Lewin Sharon R. , Doherty Peter C. , Thevarajan Irani , Valkenburg Sophie A. , Kedzierska Katherine , Nguyen Thi H. O.
Published: September 2024

Long COVID occurs in a small but important minority of patients following COVID-19, reducing quality of life and contributing to healthcare burden. Although research into underlying mechanisms is evolving, immunity is understudied. SARS-CoV-2-specific T cell responses are of key importance for viral clearance and COVID-19 recovery. However, in long COVID, the establishment and persistence of SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells are far from clear, especially beyond 12 mo postinfection and postvaccination. We defined ex vivo antigen-specific B cell and T cell responses and their T cell receptors (TCR) repertoires across 2 y postinfection in people with long COVID. Using 13 SARS-CoV-2 peptide–HLA tetramers, spanning 11 HLA allotypes, as well as spike and nucleocapsid probes, we tracked SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8
+
and CD4
+
T cells and B-cells in individuals from their first SARS-CoV-2 infection through primary vaccination over 24 mo. The frequencies of ORF1a- and nucleocapsid-specific T cells and B cells remained stable over 24 mo. Spike-specific CD8
+
and CD4
+
T cells and B cells were boosted by SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, indicating immunization, in fully recovered and people with long COVID, altered the immunodominance hierarchy of SARS-CoV-2 T cell epitopes. Meanwhile, influenza-specific CD8
+
T cells were stable across 24 mo, suggesting no bystander-activation. Compared to total T cell populations, SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells were enriched for central memory phenotype, although the proportion of central memory T cells decreased following acute illness. Importantly, TCR repertoire composition was maintained throughout long COVID, including postvaccination, to 2 y postinfection. Overall, we defined ex vivo SARS-CoV-2-specific B cells and T cells to understand primary and recall responses, providing key insights into antigen-specific responses in people with long COVID.
Automatic subtitles increase accuracy and decrease cognitive load in simultaneous interpreting
Authors: Li Tianyun , Chmiel Agnieszka
Published: September 2024

This study examines the effect of real-time subtitles generated by automatic speech recognition (ASR) technology
on interpreting accuracy and interpreters’ cognitive load. Multiple measurements — including interpreting accuracy, the NASA-TLX
for subjective ratings of cognitive load, eye-tracking and theta power as indicated by EEG recordings — were applied. Twenty-three
professional simultaneous interpreters worked with a video recording of a speech presented in five conditions: a baseline without
subtitles and then with subtitles of varying levels of precision (100%, 95%, 90% and 80%). The results reveal that the presence of
subtitles significantly improved interpreting accuracy, with a suggested optimal precision rate of 90% or higher. The interpreters
looked more at the subtitles, regardless of their level of precision, than the speaker. Contrary to our predictions, the presence
of subtitles decreased, rather than increased, the cognitive load (although this outcome was shown by the EEG data only and not by
the self-reported data). We conclude that the cognitive cost of processing subtitles as an additional information channel is
offset by the cognitive gain achieved through visual prompting. The study highlights a complex effect of subtitles on
interpreting, with such factors as subtitle presence and precision modulating the interpreters’ cognitive load in such a
workflow.
A quantum identity authentication protocol based on continuous-variable entangled light fields
Authors: Chen Zhipeng , Yao Fengwei , Xiao Xiao-Qi
Published: September 2024

Identity authentication is an important method to ensure the security of information, even for quantum information. A bi-directional quantum identity authentication protocol using a two-mode squeezed state as an entanglement resource is proposed. The decoy states’ sequences are used to enhance the security of the mutual communication process between the legitimate users. The security of the protocol under a Gaussian-cloner attack is investigated in detail with the secret information rate as the major parameters. The results show that the proposed scheme is physically secure and is able to detect possible eavesdroppers.
Rapid treatment of LLZTO solid electrolyte surface impurities by lactic acid solution
Authors: Liu Xiangjie , Huang Zeya
Published: September 2024

LLZO solid-state electrolytes of the garnet type exhibit exceptional electrochemical stability towards lithium metal and possess a remarkable level of ionic conductivity, and thus are considered to be one of the most promising solid-state electrolytes for solid-state lithium-ion batteries. However, LLZO is unstable in humid air and reacts with H2O and CO2 in the air to form Li2CO3, which reduces the wettability with lithium metal and decreases the overall ionic conductivity of LLZO. In this paper, a novel, fast, and simple method, lactic acid treatment, is proposed. The results show that Li2CO3 on the LLZO surface can be completely removed by acid treatment for 30 seconds, resulting in a pure LLZTO surface and improved wettability with lithium metal. Meanwhile, the assembled lithium symmetric battery can be cycled stably for 240 hours at 0.2 mA/cm2.
Dynamic model and natural characteristics of power split wind turbine gearbox
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Yong
Published: September 2024

A one-stage parallel shaft gear transmission with a two-stage closed differential planetary gear train makes up a power split wind turbine gearbox. It has higher power density and smaller volume than traditional wind turbine gearboxes. The power split wind turbine gearbox’s three-dimensional translational-rotational coupling dynamic model is first constructed by using the lumped-parameter approach, and the dynamic equation is sorted into a matrix form. MATLAB programming is used to solve the natural frequency and vibration mode vector. Based on the findings, the gearbox system’s vibration modes may be categorized into six different types: global modes, first-stage and second-stage planetary gear modes, rigid body mode, and radial translational mode of a large parallel shaft gear. The parallel shaft big gear radial translational mode has nothing to do with the number of planet gears and coupling stiffness. Changing interstage coupling stiffness in a particular direction only affects the modes that vibrate in that direction.
Stress analysis of different air inlet modes for underwater compressed air energy storage considering fluid influence
Authors: Sun Shuqi , Cui Sen , Chen Siyuan , Chen Laijun
Published: September 2024

Underwater compressed air energy storage has broad application prospects in the fields of marine energy development, deep-sea exploration, and energy storage away from land. The gas storage device is the core component of its energy storage, and there are two intake modes between the current gas storage device and the pipeline, the upper intake mode and the lower intake mode. There are differences in the stability of the airbag between the two modes, which affects the reliability and stability of the whole system. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the stress of different intake modes of the gas storage device. Firstly, this paper gives the principle and structure of underwater compressed air energy storage and then establishes the model of the airbag and the corresponding parameters. Based on the finite element fluid simulation analysis system, the dynamic mesh fluid-solid coupling simulation is carried out. By comparing and analyzing the deformation of the two modes due to the impact of water flow in the flow field and the distribution of the equivalent stress at the connection between the main body of the airbag and the pipeline, it is concluded that the stress of the gas storage device in the lower air inlet mode is less than that in the upper air inlet mode, and then it is verified that its safety is better than that of the upper air inlet mode.
The Gonchar–Chudnovskies conjecture and a functional analogue of the Thue–Siegel–Roth theorem
Authors: Aptekarev A. , Yattselev M.
Published: September 2024

This article examines the Gonchar–Chudnovskies conjecture about the limited size of blocks of diagonal Padé approximants of algebraic functions. The statement of this conjecture is a functional analogue of the famous Thue–Siegel–Roth theorem. For algebraic functions with branch points in general position, we will show the validity of this conjecture as a consequence of recent results on the uniform convergence of the continued fraction for an analytic function with branch points. We will also discuss related problems on estimating the number of “spurious” (“wandering”) poles for rational approximations (Stahl’s conjecture), and on the appearance and disappearance of defects (Froissart doublets).
Chebyshev–Padé approximants for multivalued functions
Authors: Rakhmanov E. , Suetin S.
Published: September 2024

The paper discusses the connection between the linear Chebyshev–Padé approximants for an analytic function

f
f

and diagonal type I Hermite–Padé polynomials for the set of functions

[
1
,

f
1

,

f
2

]

[1, f_1, f_2]

, where the pair of functions

f
1

,

f
2

f_1, f_2

forms a Nikishin system. Both problems can ultimately be reduced to certain convergence problems for multipoint Padé approximants. On the other hand, the denominators of multipoint Padé approximants are non-Hermitian orthogonal polynomials with analytical weights. Thus, to study all the above problems, the general method created by Herbert Stahl can be applied. Stahl’s method is not yet sufficiently developed to obtain general results on these problems. In particular, many key convergence problems for Chebyshev–Padé approximants for functions with arbitrary configurations of branch points remain open. In this paper, we consider several important general and particular results related to this case, some already well known, and also formulate two general hypotheses in the indicated direction.
On determinant representations of Hermite–Padé polynomials
Authors: Starovoitov A. , Ryabchenko N.
Published: September 2024

In this work we introduce new concepts: weakly normal index, weakly perfect system of functions. With these concepts for an arbitrary system of power series we formulate and prove criteria for the uniqueness of solutions to two Hermite–Padé problems, and obtain explicit determinant representations of Hermite–Padé types 1 and 2 polynomials. Proven statements complement well-known results in Hermite–Padé approximation theory.
On functions of finite analytical complexity
Authors: Stepanova M.
Published: September 2024

We construct examples of polynomials and analytic functions of any predetermined finite analytical complexity

n
n

. We obtain an estimate of the order of derivative of the differential-algebraic criteria for membership in the class

C

l

n

Cl_{n}

of functions of analytical complexity not higher than

n
n

. We find uniform estimates for finite values

d

n

d_{n}

of the analytic spectrum

{

d

n

}

\{d_{n}\}

for systems of differential-algebraic equations of fixed order of derivative

δ
\delta

.
Structure of the Nuttall partition for some class of four-sheeted Riemann surfaces
Authors: Ikonomov N. , Suetin S.
Published: September 2024

The structure of a Nuttall partition into sheets of some class of four-sheeted Riemann surfaces is studied. The corresponding class of multivalued analytic functions is a special class of algebraic functions of fourth order generated by the function inverse to the Zhukovskii function. We show that in this class of four-sheeted Riemann surfaces, the boundary between the second and third sheets of the Nuttall partition of the Riemann surface is completely characterized in terms of an extremal problem posed on the two-sheeted Riemann surface of the function 

w
w

defined by the equation

w
2

=

z
2

−
1

w^2=z^2-1

. In particular, we show that in this class of functions the boundary between the second and third sheets intersects neither the boundary between the first and second sheets nor that between the third and fourth sheets.
Pain anticipation is a new behavioural sign of minimally conscious state
Authors: Sangare Aude , Munoz-Musat Esteban , Ben Salah Amina , Valente Melanie , Marois Clemence , Demeret Sophie , Sitt Jacobo Diego , Rohaut Benjamin , Naccache Lionel
Published: September 2024

Probing cognition and consciousness in the absence of functional communication remains an extremely challenging task. In this perspective, we imagined a basic clinical procedure to explore pain anticipation at bedside. In a series of 61 patients with a disorder of consciousness, we tested the existence of a nociceptive anticipation response by pairing a somaesthetic stimulation with a noxious stimulation. We then explored how nociceptive anticipation response correlated with (i) clinical status inferred from Coma Recovery Scale-Revised scoring, (ii) with an EEG signature of stimulus anticipation—the contingent negative variation—and (iii) how nociceptive anticipation response could predict consciousness outcome at 6 months. Proportion of nociceptive anticipation response differed significantly according to the state of consciousness: nociceptive anticipation response was present in 5 of 5 emerging from minimally conscious state patients (100%), in 10 of 11 minimally conscious state plus patients (91%), but only in 8 of 17 minimally conscious state minus patients (47%), and only in 1 of 24 vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome patients (4%) (χ2  P < 0.0001). Nociceptive anticipation response correlated with the presence of a contingent negative variation, suggesting that patients with nociceptive anticipation response were more prone to actively expect and anticipate auditory stimuli (Fisher’s exact test P = 0.05). However, nociceptive anticipation response presence did not predict consciousness recovery. Nociceptive anticipation response appears as a new additional behavioural sign that can be used to differentiate minimally conscious state from vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome patients. As most behavioural signs of minimally conscious state, the nociceptive anticipation response seems to reveal the existence of a cortically mediated state that does not necessarily reflect residual conscious processing.
‘Co-Conspirators in Murder’: Dirty Wars, Meta-Conflicts and Bipartisan Transitional Justice
Authors: Dudai Ron
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT∞

As transitional justice becomes focused on transitions out of identity-based conflicts, the ability of interventions to transcend partisan approaches and be perceived as legitimate by all sides has become a key challenge. Meta-conflicts – conflicts over what the conflict was about – often obstruct efforts of dealing with the past. This note explores ways to eschew the common zero-sum game of condemning one party or the other, based on the 2024 report of the Kenova inquiry in Northern Ireland, which examined dozens of conflict-era murders relating to the operation of a British state informer in the Irish Republican Army’s (IRA) counter-informing unit. Kenova’s finding that ultimately both the British state and the IRA were responsible for killings of alleged informers is utilized here to draw broader implications regarding the possibility of bipartisan transitional justice, suggesting that the murky betrayals of ‘dirty wars’ could be an effective starting point of such efforts.
Guiding Principles for Department of Defense Global Health Engagements
Authors: Sarkisian Simon A
Published: September 2024

Within the past decade, the U.S. DoD has increased spending on global health engagements (GHEs). Not only do these increased efforts strengthen national security but they also fortify the United States’ diplomatic relations with foreign governments through medical stability operations and health diplomacy. Maximizing health care-related programs will bolster a partner government’s ability to maintain secure borders and prevent conflict while depriving extremists of safe havens. Looking beyond the short-term benefits, the long-term effects of GHEs are not limited to a nation’s borders; aid permeates into a society providing social and economic opportunities otherwise unobtainable to the community and effectively winning the hearts and minds of the population. Although the DoD does list policies and procedures in which to conduct GHEs, the proposed set of principles can further prevent conflicts, deliver better foreign humanitarian assistance, and develop a better health care partnership centered around the host nation.
Nature of the lunar far-side samples returned by the Chang'E-6 mission
Authors: Li Chunlai , Hu Hao , Yang Meng-Fei , Liu Jianjun , Zhou Qin , Ren Xin , Liu Bin , Liu Dawei , Zeng Xingguo , Zuo Wei , Zhang Guangliang , Zhang Hongbo , Yang Saihong , Wang Qiong , Deng Xiangjin , Gao Xingye , Su Yan , Wen Weibin , Ouyang Ziyuan
Published: September 2024

The Chang'E-6 (CE-6) mission successfully achieved return of the first samples from the far side of the Moon. The sampling site of CE-6 is located in the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) basin—the largest, deepest and oldest impact basin on the Moon. The 1935.3 g of CE-6 lunar samples exhibit distinct characteristics compared with previous lunar samples. This study analyses the physical, mineralogical, petrographic and geochemical properties of CE-6 lunar scooped samples. The CE-6 soil has a significantly lower bulk density (0.983 g/cm3) and true density (3.035 g/cm3) than the Chang'E-5 (CE-5) samples. The grain size of the CE-6 soil exhibits a bimodal distribution, indicating a mixture of different compositions. Mineralogically, the CE-6 soil consists of 32.6% plagioclase (anorthite and bytownite), 19.7% augite, 10% pigeonite and 3.6% orthopyroxene, and with low content of olivine (0.5%) but high content of amorphous glass (29.4%). Geochemically, the bulk composition of CE-6 soil is rich in Al2O3 (14%) and CaO (12%) but low in FeO (17%), and trace elements of CE-6 soil such as K (∼630 ppm), U (0.26 ppm), Th (0.92 ppm) and rare-earth elements are significantly lower than those of the lunar soils within the Procellarum KREEP Terrane. The local basalts are characterized by low-Ti (TiO2, 5.08%), low-Al (Al2O3 9.85%) and low-K (∼830 ppm), features suggesting that the CE-6 soil is a mixture of local basalts and non-basaltic ejecta. The returned CE-6 sample contains diverse lithic fragments, including local mare basalt, breccia, agglutinate, glasses and leucocrate. These local mare basalts document the volcanic history of the lunar far side, while the non-basaltic fragments may offer critical insights into the lunar highland crust, SPA impact melts and potentially the deep lunar mantle, making these samples highly significant for scientific research.