bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An unfamiliar way to generate the hierarchy of standard model fermion masses
Authors: Baek S. , Kersten J. , Ko P. , Velasco-Sevilla L.
Published: February 2024

Abstract

While the properties of the observed Higgs boson agree with the Standard Model predictions, the hierarchy of fermion masses lacks an explanation within the model. In this work, we consider a fresh approach to this problem, involving a different Higgs doublet responsible for each quark mass. We construct a model with a gauged, non-anomalous U(1) family symmetry that fixes which fermion couples to which doublet with an $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1) Yukawa coupling. The hierarchy of masses is generated by the hierarchy of vacuum expectation values of the Higgs fields. The model generically predicts a light, weakly coupled pseudoscalar. We verify that the model satisfies constraints from flavour changing neutral currents, Higgs phenomenology and electroweak precision tests.
Symmetry breaking of 3-dimensional AdS in holographic semiclassical gravity
Authors: Ishibashi Akihiro , Maeda Kengo , Okamura Takashi
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We show that 3-dimensional AdS spacetime can be semiclassically unstable due to strongly interacting quantum field effects. In our previous paper, we have pointed out the possibility of such an instability of AdS3 by inspecting linear perturbations of the (covering space of) static BTZ black hole with AdS4 gravity dual in the context of holographic semiclassical problems. In the present paper, we further study this issue from thermodynamic viewpoint by constructing asymptotically AdS3 semiclassical solutions and computing free energies of the solutions. We find two asymptotically AdS3 solutions to the semiclassical Einstein equations with non-vanishing source term: the one whose free energy is smaller than that of the BTZ with vanishing source term and the other whose free energy is smaller than that of the global AdS3 with no horizon (thus manifestly zero-temperature background). The instability found in this paper implies the breakdown of the maximal symmetries of AdS3, and its origin is different from the well-known semiclassical linear instability since our holographic semiclassical Einstein equations in 3-dimensions do not involve higher order derivative terms.
Charged particle scattering near the horizon
Authors: Feleppa Fabiano , Gaddam Nava , Groenenboom Nico
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We study Maxwell theory, in the presence of charged scalar sources, near the black hole horizon in a partial wave basis. We derive the gauge field configuration that solves Maxwell equations in the near-horizon region of a Schwarzschild black hole when sourced by a charge density of a localised charged particle. This is the electromagnetic analog of the gravitational Dray-’t Hooft shockwave near the horizon. We explicitly calculate the S-matrix associated with this shockwave in the first quantised 1 → 1 formalism. We develop a theory for scalar QED near the horizon using which we compute the electromagnetic eikonal S-matrix from elastic 2 → 2 scattering of charged particles exchanging soft photons in the black hole eikonal limit. The resulting ladder resummation agrees perfectly with the result from the first quantised formalism, whereas the field-theoretic formulation allows for a computation of a wider range of amplitudes. As a demonstration, we explicitly compute sub-leading corrections that arise from four-vertices.
Constrained HRT Surfaces and their Entropic Interpretation
Authors: Dong Xi , Marolf Donald , Rath Pratik
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Consider two boundary subregions A and B that lie in a common boundary Cauchy surface, and consider also the associated HRT surface γB for B. In that context, the constrained HRT surface γA:B can be defined as the codimension-2 bulk surface anchored to A that is obtained by a maximin construction restricted to Cauchy slices containing γB. As a result, γA:B is the union of two pieces, $$ {\gamma}_{A:B}^B $$

γ

A
:
B

B

and $$ {\gamma}_{A:B}^{\overline{B}} $$

γ

A
:
B

B
¯

lying respectively in the entanglement wedges of B and its complement $$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

. Unlike the area $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_A\right) $$
A

γ
A

of the HRT surface γA, at least in the semiclassical limit, the area $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_{A:B}\right) $$
A

γ

A
:
B

of γA:B commutes with the area $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_B\right) $$
A

γ
B

of γB. To study the entropic interpretation of $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_{A:B}\right) $$
A

γ

A
:
B

, we analyze the Rényi entropies of subregion A in a fixed-area state of subregion B. We use the gravitational path integral to show that the n ≈ 1 Rényi entropies are then computed by minimizing $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_A\right) $$
A

γ
A

over spacetimes defined by a boost angle conjugate to $$ \mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_B\right) $$
A

γ
B

. In the case where the pieces $$ {\gamma}_{A:B}^B $$

γ

A
:
B

B

and $$ {\gamma}_{A:B}^{\overline{B}} $$

γ

A
:
B

B
¯

intersect at a constant boost angle, a geometric argument shows that the n ≈ 1 Rényi entropy is then given by $$ \frac{\mathcal{A}\left({\gamma}_{A:B}\right)}{4G} $$

A

γ

A
:
B

4
G

. We discuss how the n ≈ 1 Rényi entropy differs from the von Neumann entropy due to a lack of commutativity of the n → 1 and G → 0 limits. We also discuss how the behaviour changes as a function of the width of the fixed-area state. Our results are relevant to some of the issues associated with attempts to use standard random tensor networks to describe time dependent geometries.
Investigation of black hole complementarity in AdS2 black holes
Authors: Kim Wontae , Nam Mungon
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Black hole complementarity plays a pivotal role in resolving the information loss paradox by treating Hawking radiation as carriers of information, apart from the complicated mechanisms involved in decoding information from this radiation. The thought experiment proposed by Susskind and Thorlacius, as well as the criteria set forth by Hayden and Preskill, provide deep insights into the intricate relationship of black hole complementarity between fiducial and infalling observers. We execute the Alice-Bob thought experiment in the context of two-dimensional anti-de Sitter black holes. It turns out that information cloning can be avoided in the case of a large black hole. According to the Hayden-Preskill criteria, if the scale parameter associated with the explicit breaking of the one-dimensional group of reparametrizations is significantly exceed the squared mass of the black hole, then information cloning can be effectively evaded.
Existence of harmonic maps and eigenvalue optimization in higher dimensions
Authors: Karpukhin Mikhail , Stern Daniel
Published: February 2024

We prove the existence of nonconstant harmonic maps of optimal regularity from an arbitrary closed manifold $(M^{n},g)$
(

M
n

,
g
)
of dimension $n>2$
n
>
2
to any closed, non-aspherical manifold $N$
N
containing no stable minimal two-spheres. In particular, this gives the first general existence result for harmonic maps from higher-dimensional manifolds to a large class of positively curved targets. In the special case of the round spheres $N=\mathbb{S}^{k}$
N
=

S
k

, $k\geqslant 3$
k
⩾
3
, we obtain a distinguished family of nonconstant harmonic maps $M\to \mathbb{S}^{k}$
M
→

S
k

of index at most $k+1$
k
+
1
, with singular set of codimension at least 7 for $k$
k
sufficiently large. Furthermore, if $3\leqslant n\leqslant 5$
3
⩽
n
⩽
5
, we show that these smooth harmonic maps stabilize as $k$
k
becomes large, and correspond to the solutions of an eigenvalue optimization problem on $M$
M
, generalizing the conformal maximization of the first Laplace eigenvalue on surfaces.
Simultaneous standard total joint prosthesis reconstruction with SSRO and Le Fort I osteotomy in the treatment of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis with jaw deformity: a case cohort study
Authors: Huang Dong , Zou Luxiang , Lu Chuan , Zhao Jieyun , He Dongmei , Yang Chi
Published: February 2024

Objective

Unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis with jaw deformity (UTMJAJD) may require simultaneous total joint prosthesis (TJP) reconstruction, sagittal split ramus (SSRO), and Le Fort I osteotomies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes in patients treated with these procedures.

Methods

Patients diagnosed UTMJAJD between 2016 and 2018 were selected for the study. Mandible-first procedure was performed after ankylosis release with TJP on the ankylosed side and SSRO on the contralateral side. Le Fort I osteotomy with and without genioplasty was lastly performed. Maximal incisor opening (MIO), facial symmetry, and jaw and condyle stability were compared before, after operation, and during follow-ups.

Results

Seven patients were included in the study. Their average chin deviation was 9.5 ± 4.2 mm, and maxillary cant was 5.1 ± 3.0°. After operation, jaw deformity significantly improved, with chin deviation corrected 7.6 ± 4.1 mm (p = 0.015) and advanced 5.9 ± 2.5 mm (p = 0.006). After an average follow-up of 26.6 ± 17.1 months, MIO significantly increased from 11.4 ± 9.3 to 35.7 ± 2.6 mm (p = 0.000). The occlusion was stable with no significant positional or rotational changes of the jaw (p > 0.05). There was no obvious condylar resorption during follow-ups.

Conclusion

Simultaneous TJP reconstruction, SSRO, and Le Fort I osteotomy are reliable and effective methods for the treatment of UTMJAJD.
Characterizing deep groundwater using evidence from oil and gas exploration wells in the Lower Kutai Basin of Indonesia
Authors: Arifin  , Shamsudduha Mohammad , Ramdhan Agus M. , Reksalegora Sena W. , Taylor Richard G.
Published: February 2024

Groundwater at depths exceeding 500 m can be an important source of freshwater. However, the characteristics of deep groundwater in many regions of the world, including Indonesia’s sedimentary basins, remain vaguely defined. This study investigates the pressure regimes, hydraulic head distributions, salinity, and hydrochemical facies of deep groundwater using available evidence from oil and gas exploration wells in the Lower Kutai Basin of Indonesia. Pressure measurements and wireline log data reveal three pressure regimes within the basin: hydrostatic, overpressure, and underpressure. The top of the overpressure varies, from close to the surface onshore to depths of ~4.5 and ~3.8 km in the Mahakam Delta and offshore, respectively. Computed hydraulic heads at the top of the overpressure range from ~191 m above sea level onshore to ~71 m below sea level offshore, and are indicative of regional groundwater flow. The observed salinity of deep groundwater within the basin indicates predominantly brackish or saline conditions. Fresh (total dissolved solids < 1 g/L) groundwater to a depth of ~2 km is found at a small minority of wells onshore and in the delta; no fresh groundwater is found offshore. Four hydrochemical facies are observed: Na+/Cl–, Ca2+/Cl–, Na+/HCO3–, and Na+–Ca2+/HCO3–. This study indicates that deep fresh groundwater in the Lower Kutai Basin is of localized occurrence. Recharge from meteoric water may replenish deep fresh groundwater within the hydrostatic zone and sustain water supplies, whether brackish or fresh. Water produced from clay diagenesis is also cited as a possible process of freshening deep groundwater.
The influence of SES, migration background, and non-cognitive abilities on PISA reading and mathematics achievement: evidence from Sweden
Authors: Boman Björn , Wiberg Marie
Published: February 2024

The current study analysed the relationships between socio-economic status, migration background, and non-cognitive factors and PISA reading and mathematics achievement. The results from multi-level analyses on Sweden’s PISA survey from 2018 indicate that both mathematics achievement and reading achievement are affected by SES, migration background, reading abilities, growth mindset, and the ability to master the content. Between-school level differences are explained by reading motivation and the mother’s educational level. Our findings stress the importance of both socio-demographic, socio-economic, and non-cognitive factors such as reading self-concept and growth mindset for both mathematics achievement and reading achievement.
Observation of Damage Initiation for Trans-laminar Fracture Using in situ Fast Synchrotron X-ray Radiography and ex situ X-ray Computed Tomography
Authors: Xu Xiaodong , Leung Nathanael , Jargalsaikhan Urangua , Bongaers Evi , Sui Tan
Published: February 2024

Trans-laminar fracture is an important topic for engineering composites. In this study, trans-laminar fracture initiation in quasi-isotropic carbon/epoxy laminates made of non-crimp fabrics was examined using in situ fast synchrotron X-ray radiography and ex situ X-ray computed tomography. The maximum split lengths were measured by in situ radiography and were compared with the predicted values in a detailed FE model using cohesive elements. Ex situ computed tomography scans were also conducted to confirm that no fibre breakage occurs before the final load drop in the experiments. In situ and ex situ observations are complementary for the understanding of damage initiation.
Some regularity of submetries
Authors: Lytchak Alexander
Published: February 2024

We discuss regularity statements for equidistant decompositions of Riemannian manifolds and for the corresponding quotient spaces. We show that any stratum of the quotient space has curvature locally bounded from both sides.
Concept logic trees: enabling user interaction for transparent image classification and human-in-the-loop learning
Authors: Rodríguez David M. , Cuéllar Manuel P. , Morales Diego P.
Published: February 2024

Interpretable deep learning models are increasingly important in domains where transparent decision-making is required. In this field, the interaction of the user with the model can contribute to the interpretability of the model. In this research work, we present an innovative approach that combines soft decision trees, neural symbolic learning, and concept learning to create an image classification model that enhances interpretability and user interaction, control, and intervention. The key novelty of our method relies on the fusion of an interpretable architecture with neural symbolic learning, allowing the incorporation of expert knowledge and user interaction. Furthermore, our solution facilitates the inspection of the model through queries in the form of first-order logic predicates. Our main contribution is a human-in-the-loop model as a result of the fusion of neural symbolic learning and an interpretable architecture. We validate the effectiveness of our approach through comprehensive experimental results, demonstrating competitive performance on challenging datasets when compared to state-of-the-art solutions.
Time trends in real-world treatment patterns and survival in patients diagnosed with de novo HER2+ metastatic breast cancer: an analysis of the SONABRE registry
Authors: Geurts Sandra M. E. , Ibragimova Khava I. E. , Ding Nan , Meegdes Marissa , Erdkamp Frans , Heijns Joan B. , Tol Jolien , Vriens Birgit E. P. J. , Dercksen Marcus W. , Aaldering Kirsten N. A. , Pepels Manon J. A. E. , van de Winkel Linda , Peters Natascha A. J. B. , van de Wouw Agnes J. , Maaskant Sabrina A. J. G. , Teeuwen-Dedroog Nathalie J. A. , van Nijnatten Thiemo J. A. , de Boer Maaike , Tjan-Heijnen Vivianne C. G.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim was to determine whether the real-world first-line progression-free survival (PFS) of patients diagnosed with de novo human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) advanced breast cancer (ABC) has improved since the introduction of pertuzumab in 2013. In addition to PFS, we aimed to determine differences in overall survival (OS) and the use of systemic and locoregional therapies.

Methods

Included were patients systemically treated for de novo HER2+ ABC in ten hospitals in 2008–2017 from the SONABRE Registry (NCT-03577197). First-line PFS and OS in 2013–2017 versus 2008–2012 was determined using Kaplan–Meier analyses and multivariable Cox proportional hazards modelling. First-given systemic therapy and the use of locoregional therapy within the first year following diagnosis were determined per period of diagnosis.

Results

Median and five-year PFS were 26.6 months and 24% in 2013–2017 (n = 85) versus 14.5 months and 10% in 2008–2012 (n = 81) (adjusted HR = 0.65, 95%CI:0.45–0.94). Median and five-year OS were 61.2 months and 51% in 2013–2017 versus 26.1 months and 28% in 2008–2012 (adjusted HR = 0.55, 95%CI:0.37–0.81). Of patients diagnosed in 2013–2017 versus 2008–2012, 84% versus 60% received HER2-targeted therapy and 59% versus 0% pertuzumab-based therapy as first-given therapy. Respectively, 27% and 23% of patients underwent locoregional breast surgery, and 6% and 7% surgery of a metastatic site during the first year following diagnosis.

Conclusion

The prognosis of patients with de novo HER2 + ABC has improved considerably. Since 2013 one in four patients were alive and free from progression on first-given therapy for at least five years.
Efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells in the treatment of type 1 diabetes: a systematic review
Authors: Liu Jiaxin , Yang Yang , Qi Yun
Published: February 2024

To investigate the efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Articles about the effects of mesenchymal stromal cells for T1D were retrieved in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases up to July 2023. Additional relevant studies were manually searched through citations. HbA1c, FBG, PBG, insulin requirement and C-peptide were assessed. The risk of bias was evaluated with the ROB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. Six RCTs and eight nRCTs were included. Of the 14 studies included, two evaluated BM-MSCs, three evaluated UC-MSCs, five evaluated AHSCT, two evaluated CB-SCs, and two evaluated UC-SCs plus aBM-MNCs. At the end of follow-up, ten studies found that mesenchymal stromal cells improved glycemic outcomes in T1D, while the remaining four studies showed no significant improvement. Findings support the positive impacts observed from utilizing mesenchymal stromal cells in individuals with T1D. However, the overall methodological quality of the identified studies and findings is heterogeneous, limiting the interpretation of the therapeutic benefits of mesenchymal stromal cells in T1D. Methodically rigorous research is needed to further increase credibility.
An Evaluation of Child and Parent Outcomes Following Community-Based Early Intervention with Randomised Parent-Mediated Intervention for Autistic Pre-Schoolers
Authors: Green Cherie C. , Bent Catherine A. , Smith Jodie , Chetcuti Lacey , Uljarević Mirko , Pye Katherine , Toscano Gabrielle , Hudry Kristelle ,   The Victorian ASELCC Team
Published: February 2024

Background

As autistic children are being diagnosed at a younger age, the need to identify appropriate early supports has increased. Therapist-delivered and parent-mediated autism intervention may benefit children and parents.

Objective

This pilot study examined developmental outcomes for autistic pre-schoolers and mental health and wellbeing outcomes for their parents (n = 53) following a 10-month intervention period.

Methods

All families were accessing therapist-delivered interventions—the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) or usual community services—and some families also received additional parent-coaching ESDM (P-ESDM). Families were assessed at 3 timepoints.

Results

Overall children made significant gains in cognitive skills and adaptive behaviour, with no differences between groups. Parents overall reported increased parenting stress over time. P-ESDM conferred no added benefit for child outcomes, and similarly, no clear benefit for parent outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that children receiving early intervention make developmental gains, regardless of type of intervention, and challenges assumptions that, as an adjunct to other intervention programs, P-ESDM improves child or parent outcomes. Further research is needed to explore the effects of parent-mediated programs.
Orchestrating the climate choir: the boundaries of scientists’ expertise, the relevance of experiential knowledge, and quality assurance in the public climate debate
Authors: Nicolaisen Peter Busch
Published: February 2024

Scientific knowledge is at the heart of discussions about climate change. However, it has been proposed that the apparent predominance of climate science in the societal debate should be reconsidered and that a more inclusive approach is warranted. Further, the introduction of new communication technology has made the information environment more fragmented, possibly endangering the quality of societal deliberation on climate change concerns. Using focus group methodology, this paper explores how climate scientists, climate journalists, and citizens perceive scientific experts’ mandate when they communicate publicly, the role of experiential knowledge in discussions of climate-related issues, and who the three actors prefer to guard the quality of the climate information exchanged in the public sphere. The findings show that scientific experts are perceived to carry a high degree of legitimacy, but only within their own narrow specialty, while experiential knowledge was seen as more useful in applied domains of science than in arcane research fields. In the new media landscape, journalists are still generally preferred as gatekeepers by all three actor types.
Using a nested virtualization tool for teaching VPN fundamentals
Authors: Orduña Juan M. , Pérez Carlos
Published: February 2024

A common problem of undergraduate courses about security and computer networks is the difficulty of providing practical exercises to students. Although different approaches have been followed to solve this problem, it is still an open issue. In this work, we first discuss several possible open-source simulation/emulation/virtualization tools that could be used in the design of a lab session for teaching Virtual Private Networks (VPN) fundamentals based on OpenVPN. Next, we describe how a hands-on lab about VPNs can be carried out with the selected virtualization tool, called NETinVM. The proposed lab starts installing the OpenVPN packages in client and server machines, as in a real-case scenario. Although in this case both client and servers are Kernel-based Virtual Machines (KVM) connected to networks inside NETinVM. The nested virtualization included in NETinVM allows to deploy all the required types of VPNs within the virtual machine, allowing the students to reproduce the lab without the need of a network infrastructure, and following exactly the same process required in a real scenario. The evaluation results show that the level of learning achieved by the students through this lab session seems to be high, and they consider this lab useful for their professional development, showing that virtualization technology can help in computer network education.
Betting on Conspiracy: A Decision Theoretic Account of the Rationality of Conspiracy Theory Belief
Authors: Tsapos Melina
Published: February 2024

The question of the rationality of conspiratorial belief divides philosophers into mainly two camps. The particularists believe that each conspiracy theory ought to be examined on its own merits. The generalist, by contrast, argues that there is something inherently suspect about conspiracy theories that makes belief in them irrational. Recent empirical findings indicate that conspiratorial thinking is commonplace among ordinary people, which has naturally shifted attention to the particularists. Yet, even the particularist must agree that not all conspiracy belief is rational, in which case she must explain what separates rational from non-rational conspiratorial thinking. In this paper, I contrast three strategies to this end: (1) the probabilistic objectivist, who assesses the objective probability of conspiracies; (2) the subjectivist, who rather focuses on the perspective of the believer, and typically views the decision to believe in a conspiracy as a problem of decision making under risk. Approaches (1) and (2) rely on assessments of the probability of conspiracy which, I argue, limits their applicability. Instead, I explore (3) viewing the problem facing the potential believer as a decision problem under uncertainty about probabilities. I argue, furthermore, that focusing solely on epistemic utilities fails to do justice to the particular character of conspiracy beliefs, which are not exclusively epistemically motivated, and I investigate the rationality of such beliefs under a number of standard decision rules.
Tensile Tests for Material Characterisation of High- and Ultra-High-Strength Steels S690QL and S960QL under Natural Fire Conditions
Authors: Uszball Sara , Knobloch Markus
Published: February 2024

The mechanical material behavior of mild steels is reversible in the cooling phase of natural fires, which is proven by experimental evidence. For the material behavior of high-strength steels during cooling, no results are yet available. The paper provides the first comprehensive test program on the constitutive material behavior of high-strength steels S690QL and S960QL as well as mild steel S355 J2 + N in the case of natural fires. It is elaborated that the mechanical material behavior of high-strength steels in the cooling phase differs from the behavior in the heating phase and is not reversible due to phase changes of the microstructure. A constitutive material model for structural fire design purposes is developed on the basis of experimental data and the soundness and reliability of the model are proven by a statistical study that systematically evaluates the deviation of the model prediction from the test data.
Cellular geometric semantic genetic programming
Authors: Bonin Lorenzo , Rovito Luigi , De Lorenzo Andrea , Manzoni Luca
Published: February 2024

Among the different variants of Genetic Programming (GP), Geometric Semantic GP (GSGP) has proved to be both efficient and effective in finding good solutions. The fact that the operators of GSGP operate on the semantics of the individuals in a clear way provides guarantees on the way the search is performed. GSGP is not, however, free from limitations like the premature convergence of the population to a small–and possibly sub-optimal–area of the search space. One reason for this issue could be the fact that good individuals can quickly “spread” in the population suppressing the emergence of competition. To mitigate this problem, we impose a cellular automata (CA) inspired communication topology over GSGP. In CAs a collection of agents (as finite state automata) are positioned in a n-dimensional periodic grid and communicates only locally with the automata in their neighbourhoods. Similarly, we assign a location to each individual on an n-dimensional grid and the entire evolution for an individual will happen locally by considering, for each individual, only the individuals in its neighbourhood. Specifically, we present an algorithm in which, for each generation, a subset of the neighbourhood of each individual is sampled and the selection for the given cell in the grid is performed by extracting the two best individuals of this subset, which are employed as parents for the Geometric Semantic Crossover. We compare this cellular GSGP (cGSGP) approach with standard GSGP on eight regression problems, showing that it can provide better solutions than GSGP. Moreover, by analyzing convergence rates, we show that the improvement is observable regardless of the number of executed generations. As a side effect, we additionally show that combining a small-neighbourhood-based cellular spatial structure with GSGP helps in producing smaller solutions. Finally, we measure the spatial autocorrelation of the population by adopting the Moran’s I coefficient to provide an overview of the diversity, showing that our cellular spatial structure helps in providing better diversity during the early stages of the evolution.
Neural network crossover in genetic algorithms using genetic programming
Authors: Pretorius Kyle , Pillay Nelishia
Published: February 2024

The use of genetic algorithms (GAs) to evolve neural network (NN) weights has risen in popularity in recent years, particularly when used together with gradient descent as a mutation operator. However, crossover operators are often omitted from such GAs as they are seen as being highly destructive and detrimental to the performance of the GA. Designing crossover operators that can effectively be applied to NNs has been an active area of research with success limited to specific problem domains. The focus of this study is to use genetic programming (GP) to automatically evolve crossover operators that can be applied to NN weights and used in GAs. A novel GP is proposed and used to evolve both reusable and disposable crossover operators to compare their efficiency. Experiments are conducted to compare the performance of GAs using no crossover operator or a commonly used human designed crossover operator to GAs using GP evolved crossover operators. Results from experiments conducted show that using GP to evolve disposable crossover operators leads to highly effectively crossover operators that significantly improve the results obtained from the GA.
Solar Spectrum Reflectometer Measurements on Profiled and Small Samples: Design and Testing of Adapters
Authors: Ferrari Chiara , Morselli Nicolò , Muscio Alberto
Published: February 2024

Testing solar reflective building materials is mainly performed in laboratories using Solar Spectrum Reflectometer (SSR) or spectrophotometry. To obtain aged materials values, after exposing materials in test farms for natural ageing or applying ASTM-D7897, treated samples shall be tested again using SSR. On-site measurements of new and aged surfaces is allowed using pyranometers or albedometers, which present issues caused both by high-pitched roof and by solar and sky requirements in several locations such as at southern and middle Europe latitudes, where clay tiles are a typical coverage of roof surfaces. The use of battery-powered SSR offsite could be a solution to obtain reliable measurements in every climate, lighting, and slope condition. However, the shape of roof surfaces remains an issue since most of the tiles are characterized by elaborated morphologies that cannot fit the measurement head of the SSR. In this study, two sets of cylindrical adapters for SSR, made via Fused Deposition Modeling and coated with solar reflective white diffuse paint or specular reflective coating were produced and tested to overcome this problem. The adapters were attached to the top of the measurement head and measurements were performed according to ASTM-C1549. These adapters were tested with samples characterized by ASTM-C1549, analyzing the output from all 6 detectors of SSR, and by spectrophotometry according to ASTM-E903, using both AM1GH and ASTM E891-87 irradiance spectra. Aluminum-coated adapters proved ideal due to non-impact on measurements. Solar reflectance showed strong linear correlation for 30–50 mm adapter lengths, indicating minimal signal damping. They will allow testing most of the samples that cannot be tested with standard methods, especially aged ones, without altering their surface.
Enterprise Architecture and IT Governance to Support the BizDevOps Approach: a Systematic Mapping Study
Authors: Fuentes-Quijada Guillermo , Ruiz-González Francisco , Caro Angélica
Published: February 2024

Current software development practices are transforming the governance and management of software projects with the objective of aligning software products/services with business needs, ensuring business continuity, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering strong stakeholder relationships. The innovative BizDevOps approach has emerged as a response to these challenges, since it extends DevOps by incorporating an additional cycle and involving non-IT stakeholders with a focus on business-IT alignment. The application of IT Governance practices is crucial as regards ensuring the success of complex BizDevOps projects, and this paper, therefore, presents a systematic mapping study that explores the approaches for BizDevOps and encourages DevOps proposals that will seamlessly integrate with the business lifecycle. It examines the support provided by IT Governance practices and investigates the potential roles of Enterprise Architecture. The study analyzed 86 primary studies and 11 secondary studies, revealing a lack of empirical validations and a prevalence of recommendation-oriented papers without concrete solution proposals. These findings highlight the need for further research with which to validate BizDevOps practices and provide actionable insights.
Pregnancy following assisted reproductive technology in morbidly obese patients: assessment of feto-maternal outcomes
Authors: Song Bonnie B. , Mandelbaum Rachel S. , Anderson Zachary S. , Masjedi Aaron D. , Harris Chelsey A. , Violette Caroline J. , Ouzounian Joseph G. , Matsuo Koji , Paulson Richard J.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To examine feto-maternal characteristics and outcomes of morbidly obese pregnant patients who conceived with assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Methods

This cross-sectional study queried the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project’s National Inpatient Sample. Study population was 48,365 patients with ART pregnancy from January 2012 to September 2015, including non-obesity (n = 45,125, 93.3%), class I–II obesity (n = 2445, 5.1%), and class III obesity (n = 795, 1.6%). Severe maternal morbidity at delivery per the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention definition was assessed with multivariable binary logistic regression model.

Results

Patients in the class III obesity group were more likely to have a hypertensive disorder (adjusted-odds ratio (aOR) 3.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.61–3.52), diabetes mellitus (aOR 3.08, 95%CI 2.64–3.60), large for gestational age neonate (aOR 3.57, 95%CI 2.77–4.60), and intrauterine fetal demise (aOR 2.03, 95%CI 1.05–3.94) compared to those in the non-obesity group. Increased risks of hypertensive disease (aOR 1.35, 95%CI 1.14–1.60) and diabetes mellitus (aOR 1.39, 95%CI 1.17–1.66) in the class III obesity group remained robust even compared to the class I–II obesity group. After controlling for priori selected clinical, pregnancy, and delivery factors, patients with class III obesity were 70% more likely to have severe maternal morbidity at delivery compared to non-obese patients (8.2% vs 4.4%, aOR 1.70, 95%CI 1.30–2.22) whereas those with class I–II obesity were not (4.1% vs 4.4%, aOR 0.87, 95%CI 0.70–1.08).

Conclusions

The results of this national-level analysis in the United States suggested that morbidly obese pregnant patients conceived with ART have increased risks of adverse fetal and maternal outcomes.
Ceramic-to-metal bonding using rare-earth containing Sn–Bi solder
Authors: Feng Tianshi , Pati Bhabana , Chung Ka Man , Pei Yu , Chen Renkun
Published: February 2024

With the increasing miniaturization and power of optoelectronic devices, direct bonding of optical substrates like semiconductors and ceramics to metal heat sinks using low melting-point solder has gained significant interest. In this study, we demonstrated the bonding of glass to copper using Sn-58 wt% Bi solder (SB solder) doped with a small amount of rare earth (RE) elements. The RE elements act as active agents that facilitate the bonding to glasses without glass metallization. By optimizing the bonding parameters, such as reflow temperature and time, and employing an inert gas atmosphere to prevent solder or RE oxidation, we successfully achieved the highest shear strength in glass-copper solder joints using SB-RE solder, without the need for ultrasonic-assisted soldering (UAS). These results demonstrate the potential of using RE-containing solder for bonding unmetallized glass and ceramics in optoelectronic devices with metals at low soldering temperatures (< 200 °C). Furthermore, analysis of the shear strength and failure morphology of solder joints revealed only small degradation, primarily originating from the bulk solder region rather than the solder-glass interface, after both thermal aging (100 h) and cycling tests (100 cycles). The establishment of low-melting point RE-containing solders opens the possibility of direct jointing ceramic optoelectronic substrates to metal heat sinks for more efficient heat dissipation. In the meantime, our work also suggests that further optimization studies are necessary to explore its performance under more extreme working conditions.
Processing and Comprehension of Locally Ambiguous Participial Relative Clause Sentences in Russian
Authors: Darzhinova Liubov , Luk Zoe Pei-sui
Published: February 2024

The study tested how the Recency Preference and Predicate Proximity model (Gibson et al. in Cognition 59(1):23–59, 1996, https://doi.org/10.1016/0010-0277(88)90004-2) plays out by examining the attachment preferences of native Russian speakers when processing locally ambiguous participial relative clause sentences with three potential NP attachment sites in Russian. Using a self-paced reading task, reading times and noun phrase selection responses were collected. Results showed significantly shorter reading times at the disambiguating region and higher accuracy rate of selection in the high-attaching condition than in the middle- and low-attaching conditions. No significant differences were found between the middle- and low-attaching conditions. We argue that Predicate Proximity is a much stronger factor than Recency Preference in Russian.
On a Class of Solvable Stationary Non Equilibrium States for Mass Exchange Models
Authors: Capanna M. , Gabrielli D. , Tsagkarogiannis D.
Published: February 2024

We consider a family of models having an arbitrary positive amount of mass on each site and randomly exchanging an arbitrary amount of mass with nearest neighbor sites. We restrict to the case of diffusive models. We identify a class of reversible models for which the product invariant measure is known and the gradient condition is satisfied so that we can explicitly compute the transport coefficients associated to the diffusive hydrodynamic rescaling. Based on the Macroscopic Fluctuation Theory (Bertini et al. in Rev Mod Phys 87:593–636, 2015) we have that the large deviations rate functional for a stationary non equilibrium state can be computed solving a Hamilton–Jacobi equation depending only on the transport coefficients and the details of the boundary sources. Thus, we are able to identify a class of models having transport coefficients for which the Hamilton–Jacobi equation can indeed be solved. We give a complete characterization in the case of generalized zero range models and discuss several other cases. For the generalized zero range models we identify a class of discrete models that, modulo trivial extensions, coincides with the class discussed in Frassek and Giardinà (J Math Phys 63(10):103301–103335, 2022) and a class of continuous dynamics that coincides with the class in Franceschini et al. (J Math Phys 64(4): 043304–043321, 2023). Along the discussion we obtain a complete characterization of reversible misanthrope processes solving the discrete equations in Cocozza-Thivent (Z Wahrsch Verw Gebiete 70(4):509–523, 1985).
Compatible TOSets with POSets: An Application to Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Abascal Policarpo , Fueyo Fernando , Jiménez Jorge , Palacio Antonio , Serrano Maria Luisa
Published: February 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) has become a widely used technique in 3D printing, but it has proven to be a very costly process, even when optimizing parameters in existing models. Due to the characteristics of AM, and in order to optimize its process, a new approach is introduced to the problem: the discretization of each layer to be printed. This involves establishing an order relation based on the sequence in which the layers should be printed. The valid orders for the execution of the process, referred to as compatible with the order relation, will be characterized. Additionally, algorithms will be provided to obtain new compatible orders from others that were already compatible, and strategies will be presented to optimally and efficiently reorder non-compatible orders, converting them into compatible ones.
Microfluidic production of silver nanoparticles demonstrates ability for on demand synthesis of a wide size distribution of particles
Authors: Langguth Katelyn J. , Maccagnano-Zachera Sara , Heinemann Joshua
Published: February 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) can help prevent infection of virus and bacteria. The size and morphology of AgNP can be crucial to function, with smaller nanoparticles (< 20 nm) able to penetrate the cell wall. This is significant as oxidative stress and genotoxicity are associated with some sizes and coatings of AgNP, contraindicating the use of AgNP to reduce infection. We present evidence that a microfluidic chip can synthesize larger sizes and distributions of AgNP from the nano-to-micro size range. We show results from a microfluidic mixing chip that can produce a wide range of nano-to-micro size (~ 24–400 nm) AgNP. Synthesis is based on a modified Turkevich method, using a single-step AgNP synthesis on the microfluidic chip using two chemical components, trisodium citrate (NaCit) and AgNO3. To make AgNP more accessible, we describe the microfluidic chip and conditions capable of synthesis. We also describe how modification of flow rate and chemical reagent concentration change particle diameter during production. In our experiments, we found that AgNP production created a visible adsorption line in the microfluidic device, possibly owing to AgNP surface interaction at the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) interface. We characterize these particles with dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on optical light microscopy, we hypothesize that AgNP formation primarily occurs at the interface between the two chemical reagent streams. We also conclude that AgNP size increases could be due to interaction with the PDMS surface, which is known to be porous. Future work will help to understand how surface interaction may influence the formation of larger particles.
Prognostic factors analysis of diffuse midline glioma
Authors: Jiang Jing , Li Wen-bin , Xiao Shao-wen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study retrospectively analyzes cases of diffuse midline glioma treated with radiotherapy, with the aim of investigating the prognosis of the tumor and its influencing factors.

Methods

From January 2018 to November 2022, we treated 64 patients who were pathologically diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma. Among them, 41 underwent surgical resection, and 23 underwent biopsy procedures. All patients received postoperative radiotherapy. We followed up with the patients to determine the overall survival rate and conducted univariate and multivariate analyses on relevant indicators.

Results

The median survival time for the entire patient group was 33.3 months, with overall survival rates of 92.9%, 75.4%, and 45.0% at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that older patients had a better prognosis.

Conclusion

Patient age is an independent prognostic factor for patients with diffuse midline glioma undergoing radiation therapy.
Inhibition of CK2 Diminishes Fibrotic Scar Formation and Improves Outcomes After Ischemic Stroke via Reducing BRD4 Phosphorylation
Authors: Li Xuemei , Yang Qinghuan , Jiang Peiran , Wen Jun , Chen Yue , Huang Jiagui , Tian Mingfen , Ren Jiangxia , Yang Qin
Published: February 2024

Fibrotic scars play important roles in tissue reconstruction and functional recovery in the late stage of nervous system injury. However, the mechanisms underlying fibrotic scar formation and regulation remain unclear. Casein kinase II (CK2) is a protein kinase that regulates a variety of cellular functions through the phosphorylation of proteins, including bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4). CK2 and BRD4 participate in fibrosis formation in a variety of tissues. However, whether CK2 affects fibrotic scar formation remains unclear, as do the mechanisms of signal regulation after cerebral ischemic injury. In this study, we assessed whether CK2 could modulate fibrotic scar formation after cerebral ischemic injury through BRD4. Primary meningeal fibroblasts were isolated from neonatal rats and treated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), SB431542 (a TGF-β1 receptor kinase inhibitor) or TBB (a highly potent CK2 inhibitor). Adult SD rats were intraperitoneally injected with TBB to inhibit CK2 after MCAO/R. We found that CK2 expression was increased in vitro in the TGF-β1-induced fibrosis model and in vivo in the MCAO/R injury model. The TGF-β1 receptor kinase inhibitor SB431542 decreased CK2 expression in fibroblasts. The CK2 inhibitor TBB reduced the increases in proliferation, migration and activation of fibroblasts caused by TGF-β1 in vitro, and it inhibited fibrotic scar formation, ameliorated histopathological damage, protected Nissl bodies, decreased infarct volume and alleviated neurological deficits after MCAO/R injury in vivo. Furthermore, CK2 inhibition decreased BRD4 phosphorylation both in vitro and in vivo. The findings of the present study suggested that CK2 may control BRD4 phosphorylation to regulate fibrotic scar formation, to affecting outcomes after ischemic stroke.
The political business cycle of tax reforms
Authors: Rossel Flores Lucia , Huysmans Martijn , Ferwerda Joras
Published: February 2024

A political business cycle (PBC), with governments adjusting and timing economic policy for electoral gains, has long been hypothesized. A lack of data has so far limited testing of this phenomenon for government policies as opposed to fiscal outcomes such as tax revenue or government deficit, especially at the national level. We use new monthly data on tax reform announcements for a set of 22 democracies, 1988–2014, to test the PBC hypothesis for taxation. In addition to the traditional electoral strategy formulation of the PBC, we also put forward and test a capacity version of the PBC. We find evidence for the capacity version but not the traditional version of the PBC: tax reforms are less likely to be announced before elections and more likely after elections, independently of whether they are increases or decreases. Our evidence suggests that while a PBC exists, it may be less driven by strategic electioneering and more innocuous than previously assumed.
Mystical ineffability: a nonconceptual theory
Authors: Gäb Sebastian
Published: February 2024

This paper discusses the nonconceptual theory of mystical ineffability which claims that mystical experiences can’t be expressed linguistically because they can’t be conceptualized. I discuss and refute two objections against it: (a) that unconceptualized experiences are impossible, and (b) that the theory is ad hoc because it provides no reason for why mystical experiences should be unconceptualizable. I argue against (a) that distinguishing different meanings of ‘object of experience’ leaves open the possibility of non-empty but objectless nonconceptual experiences. I show that (b) is a valid objection but can be countered by a new theory of mystical non-conceptuality: mystical experiences are not conceptual because the specific mode of mystical consciousness prevents conceptualization. The dissolution of the subjectivity of consciousness during mystical experiences undermines the very foundation of the possibility of conceptual thought and thus renders them ineffable.