bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Getting Chip Card Payments Right
Authors: Basin David , Hofmeier Xenia , Sasse Ralf , Toro-Pozo Jorge 
Published: September 2024

AbstractEMV is the international protocol standard for smart card payments and is used in billions of payment cards worldwide. Despite the standard’s advertised security, various issues have been previously uncovered, deriving from logical flaws that are hard to spot in EMV’s lengthy and complex specification. We have formalized various models of EMV in Tamarin, a symbolic model checker for cryptographic protocols. Tamarin was extremely effective in finding critical flaws, both known and new, and in many cases exploitable on actual cards. We report on these past problems as well as followup work where we verified the latest, improved version of the protocol, the EMV kernel C8. This work puts C8’s correctness on a firm, formal basis, and clarifies which guarantees hold for C8 and under which assumptions. Overall our work supports the thesis that cryptographic protocol model checkers like Tamarin have an essential role to play in improving the security of real-world payment protocols and that they are up to this challenge.
Bridging Dimensions: Confident Reachability for High-Dimensional Controllers
Authors: Geng Yuang , Baldauf Jake Brandon , Dutta Souradeep , Huang Chao , Ruchkin Ivan 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAutonomous systems are increasingly implemented using end-to-end learning-based controllers. Such controllers make decisions that are executed on the real system, with images as one of the primary sensing modalities. Deep neural networks form a fundamental building block of such controllers. Unfortunately, the existing neural-network verification tools do not scale to inputs with thousands of dimensions—especially when the individual inputs (such as pixels) are devoid of clear physical meaning. This paper takes a step towards connecting exhaustive closed-loop verification with high-dimensional controllers. Our key insight is that the behavior of a high-dimensional vision-based controller can be approximated with several low-dimensional controllers. To balance the approximation accuracy and verifiability of our low-dimensional controllers, we leverage the latest verification-aware knowledge distillation. Then, we inflate low-dimensional reachability results with statistical approximation errors, yielding a high-confidence reachability guarantee for the high-dimensional controller. We investigate two inflation techniques—based on trajectories and control actions—both of which show convincing performance in three OpenAI gym benchmarks.
Formal Semantics and Analysis of Multitask PLC ST Programs with Preemption
Authors: Lee Jaeseo , Bae Kyungmin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractProgrammable logic controllers (PLCs) are widely used in industrial applications. Ensuring the correctness of PLC programs is important due to their safety-critical nature. Structured text (ST) is an imperative programming language for PLC. Despite recent advances in executable semantics of PLC ST, existing methods neglect complex multitasking and preemption features. This paper presents an executable semantics of PLC ST with preemptive multitasking. Formal analysis of multitasking programs experiences the state explosion problem. To mitigate this problem, this paper also proposes state space reduction techniques for model checking multitask PLC ST programs.
The Nonexistence of Unicorns and Many-Sorted Löwenheim–Skolem Theorems
Authors: Przybocki Benjamin , Toledo Guilherme , Zohar Yoni , Barrett Clark 
Published: September 2024

AbstractStable infiniteness, strong finite witnessability, and smoothness are model-theoretic properties relevant to theory combination in satisfiability modulo theories. Theories that are strongly finitely witnessable and smooth are called strongly polite and can be effectively combined with other theories. Toledo, Zohar, and Barrett conjectured that stably infinite and strongly finitely witnessable theories are smooth and therefore strongly polite. They called counterexamples to this conjecture unicorn theories, as their existence seemed unlikely. We prove that, indeed, unicorns do not exist. We also prove versions of the Löwenheim–Skolem theorem and the Łoś–Vaught test for many-sorted logic.
Integrating Loop Acceleration Into Bounded Model Checking
Authors: Frohn Florian , Giesl Jürgen 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBounded Model Checking (BMC) is a powerful technique for proving unsafety. However, finding deep counterexamples that require a large bound is challenging for BMC. On the other hand, acceleration techniques compute “shortcuts” that “compress” many execution steps into a single one. In this paper, we tightly integrate acceleration techniques into SMT-based bounded model checking. By adding suitable “shortcuts” on the fly, our approach can quickly detect deep counterexamples. Moreover, using so-called blocking clauses, our approach can prove safety of examples where BMC diverges. An empirical comparison with other state-of-the-art techniques shows that our approach is highly competitive for proving unsafety, and orthogonal to existing techniques for proving safety.
A Cross-Platform-Multi-user Virtual Training Environment for Waterproofing
Authors: Kaarlela Tero , Pitkäaho Tomi , Salo Sami 
Published: September 2024

AbstractVirtual environments enable trainees to develop their skills in diverse tasks, independent of time and location. In the construction sector, virtual environments are primarily utilized for safety training, while there are fewer implemented applications for hands-on construction tasks. This publication presents a platform-independent virtual environment for waterproofing training to address the issue. The presented virtual environment is a cross-platform application enabling multi-user training experience. A pilot was organized to collect feedback on the usability of the implemented virtual waterproofing environment. Results of the user questionnaire are presented and discussed to evaluate the usability and provide insights into the challenges and benefits of virtual training environments for hands-on training in the construction sector. In conclusion, the results highlight the potential of the developed virtual environment for waterproofing training.
Almost classical de Sitter?
Authors: Horer Ludwig , Junghans Daniel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The classical-dS scenario in the type II string theories proposes to search for dS vacua of orientifold flux compactifications in a regime where string corrections to the compactified effective field theory are negligible. We study a minimal extension of this scenario in which the leading string corrections to the O-plane/D-brane actions at the 4-derivative order are included but higher orders as well as string corrections in the bulk are self-consistently neglected. Our proposal is motivated by a recent debate about dS solutions with O8-planes which circumvent a classical no-go theorem due to unusual sources leading to so-called permissive boundary conditions for the 10D supergravity fields. We argue that such sources do not arise in classical supergravity but ask whether including the 4-derivative corrections leads to sources that have a similar effect. However, we find that the 4-derivative corrections do not allow meta-stable dS in a class of models with O8-planes and/or D8-branes we consider. We also study related models which in addition contain O6-planes/D6-branes and find that again no meta-stable dS is allowed, both classically and including the 4-derivative corrections. While some of the arguments in this work require the backreaction of the O-plane/D-brane sources to be small, others are valid including the full backreaction.
Neurobiological research on N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its potentiation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition: from ayahuasca to synthetic combinations of DMT and MAO inhibitors
Authors: Egger Klemens , Aicher Helena D. , Cumming Paul , Scheidegger Milan 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe potent hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) has garnered significant interest in recent years due to its profound effects on consciousness and its therapeutic psychopotential. DMT is an integral (but not exclusive) psychoactive alkaloid in the Amazonian plant-based brew ayahuasca, in which admixture of several β-carboline monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) inhibitors potentiate the activity of oral DMT, while possibly contributing in other respects to the complex psychopharmacology of ayahuasca. Irrespective of the route of administration, DMT alters perception, mood, and cognition, presumably through agonism at serotonin (5-HT) 1A/2A/2C receptors in brain, with additional actions at other receptor types possibly contributing to its overall psychoactive effects. Due to rapid first pass metabolism, DMT is nearly inactive orally, but co-administration with β-carbolines or synthetic MAO-A inhibitors (MAOIs) greatly increase its bioavailability and duration of action. The synergistic effects of DMT and MAOIs in ayahuasca or synthetic formulations may promote neuroplasticity, which presumably underlies their promising therapeutic efficacy in clinical trials for neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Advances in neuroimaging techniques are elucidating the neural correlates of DMT-induced altered states of consciousness, revealing alterations in brain activity, functional connectivity, and network dynamics. In this comprehensive narrative review, we present a synthesis of current knowledge on the pharmacology and neuroscience of DMT, β-carbolines, and ayahuasca, which should inform future research aiming to harness their full therapeutic potential.
On the Monitoring of Small Islands Belonging to the Aeolian Archipelago by MT-InSAR Data
Authors: Polcari Marco , Palano Mimmo , Puliero Silvia , Silverii Francesca , Spinetti Claudia , Tolomei Cristiano 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe aim of the present work is to evaluate the performance of several MT-InSAR techniques based on satellite SAR data in monitoring ground deformation phenomena affecting complex scenarios such as small islands of volcanic origin. To such purpose, PS, SBAS and IPTA approaches are applied in the study of Lipari, Salina and Vulcano islands belonging to the Aeolian archipelago, southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy. The outcomes retrieved from each technique are then discussed in terms of intrinsic features, spatial coverage, linear trend and coherence. Moreover, the accuracy of PS, SBAS and IPTA results are evaluated by comparison with in-situ measurements from the GNSS network managed by INGV-OE and private operators considering different metrics. Experimental results show that in this case there is no preferred MT-InSAR technique in an absolute way but each of them has strengths and drawbacks that have to be taken into account in the monitoring of complex scenarios.
Novel Teixobactin Analogues Show Promising In Vitro Activity on Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Amer Ahmed M. , Charnock Colin , Nguyen Sanko 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe treatment of infections caused by biofilm-forming organisms is challenging. The newly discovered antibiotic teixobactin shows activity against a wide range of biofilm-forming bacteria. However, the laborious and low-yield chemical synthesis of teixobactin complicates its further development for clinical application. The use of more easily synthesized teixobactin analogues may offer promise in this regard. In this article, three newly developed analogues were tested for efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Minimum inhibitory and -bactericidal concentrations were investigated. MIC values for S. aureus and E. faecalis ranged from 0.5–2 and 2–4 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the ability of the analogues to prevent biofilm formation and to inactivate bacterial cells in already established S. aureus biofilm on medical grade materials (PVC and PTFE) used in the production of infusion tubing and catheters were also tested. The analogues showed an ability to prevent biofilm formation and inactivate bacterial cells in established biofilms at concentrations as low as 1–2 μg/mL. Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that the most promising analogue (TB3) inactivated S. aureus cells in a preformed biofilm and gave a reduction in biovolume. The relative ease of synthesis of the analogues and their in vitro efficacy, makes them promising candidates for pharmaceutical development.
Graphical Abstract
ESR Essentials: imaging in fibrotic lung diseases—practice recommendations by the European Society of Thoracic Imaging
Authors: Larici Anna Rita , Biederer Juergen , Cicchetti Giuseppe , Franquet Casas Tomas , Screaton Nick , Remy-Jardin Martine , Parkar Anagha , Prosch Helmut , Schaefer-Prokop Cornelia , Frauenfelder Thomas , Ghaye Benoit , Sverzellati Nicola 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Fibrotic lung diseases (FLDs) represent a subgroup of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), which can progress over time and carry a poor prognosis. Imaging has increased diagnostic discrimination in the evaluation of FLDs. International guidelines have stated the role of radiologists in the diagnosis and management of FLDs, in the context of the interdisciplinary discussion. Chest computed tomography (CT) with high-resolution technique is recommended to correctly recognise signs, patterns, and distribution of individual FLDs. Radiologists may be the first to recognise the presence of previously unknown interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) in various settings. A systematic approach to CT images may lead to a non-invasive diagnosis of FLDs. Careful comparison of serial CT exams is crucial in determining either disease progression or supervening complications. This ‘Essentials’ aims to provide radiologists a concise and practical approach to FLDs, focusing on CT technical requirements, pattern recognition, and assessment of disease progression and complications. Hot topics such as ILAs and progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) are also discussed.

Key Points

Chest CT with high-resolution technique is the recommended imaging modality to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis.

CT pattern recognition is central for an accurate diagnosis of fibrotic lung diseases (FLDs) by interdisciplinary discussion.

Radiologists are to evaluate disease behaviour by accurately comparing serial CT scans.
Takotsubo syndrome in a Sardinian amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cohort
Authors: Maccabeo A. , Pateri M. I. , Pili F. , Pilotto S. , Pierri V. , Muroni A. , Ercoli T. , Montisci R. , Marchetti M. F. , Martis A. , Fazzini L. , Defazio G. , Puligheddu M. , Borghero G. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is known to be associated with varying degrees of autonomic and cardiovascular dysfunction. Recent case reports showed that ALS may be linked to Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). We assessed the frequency of TTS in an incident ALS cohort from Sardinia, Italy, and investigated the relationship of TTS with ALS course.

Methods
We retrospectively examined a 10-year (2010–2019) incident cohort of ALS patients of Sardinian ancestry, reported TTS frequency and patients’ clinical characteristics. Following, we checked for TTS among patients with ALS onset after 2019 and focused on the same features as for the incident cohort.

Results
Our incident cohort included 344 ALS patients and 5 of them (1.45%) developed TTS. All were female and their median onset age was 71.5 years (IQR 62.75–77). Two patients had spinal and three bulbar onset, though all patients had bulbar involvement and were at an advanced stage of disease (ALSFRS ≤ 25, King’s ≥ 3) at TTS diagnosis. We identified a potential TTS trigger in three patients (hospitalization for PEG placement, pneumonia). Among patients who had ALS onset after 2019, we identified a further TTS case and described it.

Conclusion
TTS is not a rare condition in ALS. Female sex, bulbar involvement, and later age of disease onset may be important risk factors for developing this cardiac condition and a physical or psychological trigger is often observed. Despite autonomic dysfunction in ALS has been already demonstrated, the precise physiopathological mechanism underlying TTS needs to be further clarified.
Challenges and opportunities in crowdsourced delivery planning and operations—an update
Authors: Savelsbergh Martin , Ulmer Marlin W. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractHow to best deliver goods to consumers has been a logistics question since time immemorial. However, almost all traditional delivery models involved a form of company employees, whether employees of the company manufacturing the goods or whether employees of the company transporting the goods. With the growth of the gig economy, however, a new model not involving company employees has emerged: relying on crowdsourced delivery. Crowdsourced delivery involves enlisting individuals to deliver goods and interacting with these individuals using the internet. In crowdsourced delivery, the interaction with the individuals typically occurs through a platform. Importantly, the crowdsourced couriers are not employed by the platform and this has fundamentally changed the planning and execution of the delivery of goods: the delivery capacity is no longer under (full) control of the company managing the delivery. We present the challenges this introduces, review how the research community has proposed to handle some of these challenges, and elaborate on the challenges that have not yet been addressed. In this update, we expand the literature review and discuss new challenges that have emerged in the past years. (This is an updated version of the paper “Challenges and Opportunities in Crowdsourced Delivery Planning and Operations” that appeared in 4OR, 20(1), 1-21 (2022)).
ERG-AI: enhancing occupational ergonomics with uncertainty-aware ML and LLM feedback
Authors: Sen Sagar , Gonzalez Victor , Husom Erik Johannes , Tverdal Simeon , Tokas Shukun , Tjøsvoll Svein O 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWorkers, especially those involved in jobs requiring extended standing or repetitive movements, often face significant health challenges due to Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). To mitigate MSD risks, enhancing workplace ergonomics is vital, which includes forecasting long-term employee postures, educating workers about related occupational health risks, and offering relevant recommendations. However, research gaps remain, such as the lack of a sustainable AI/ML pipeline that combines sensor-based, uncertainty-aware posture prediction with large language models for natural language communication of occupational health risks and recommendations. We introduce ERG-AI, a machine learning pipeline designed to predict extended worker postures using data from multiple wearable sensors. Alongside providing posture prediction and uncertainty estimates, ERG-AI also provides personalized health risk assessments and recommendations by generating prompts based on its performance and prompting Large Language Model (LLM) APIs, like GPT-4, to obtain user-friendly output. We used the Digital Worker Goldicare dataset to assess ERG-AI, which includes data from 114 home care workers who wore five tri-axial accelerometers in various bodily positions for a cumulative 2913 hours. The evaluation focused on the quality of posture prediction under uncertainty, energy consumption and carbon footprint of ERG-AI and the effectiveness of personalized recommendations rendered in easy-to-understand language.
Breast cancer recurrence in relation to mode of detection: implications on personalized surveillance
Authors: Sartor Hanna , Hagberg Oskar , Hemmingsson Oskar , Lång Kristina , Wadsten Charlotta 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The effectiveness of current follow-up guidelines after breast cancer treatment is uncertain. Tailored surveillance based on patient age and tumor characteristics may be more adequate. This study aimed to analyze the frequency of ipsilateral locoregional recurrences (LR) and second primary breast cancers (SP) detected outside of scheduled surveillance and to analyze risk factors associated with these events.

Methods
Patients with surgically treated early-stage breast cancer from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (MDCS), 1991–2014 (n = 1080), and the Västernorrland region, 2009–2018 (n = 1648), were included. Clinical and pathological information on the primary tumor and recurrences was retrieved from medical records. The mode of recurrence detection was defined as detection within (planned) or outside (symptomatic) of scheduled surveillance.

Results
The median follow-up was 6.5 years. Overall, 461 patients experienced a recurrence. The most common initial event was distant metastasis (47%), followed by locoregional recurrence (LR) (22%) and second primary (SP) (18%). 56% of LR and 28% of SP were identified outside of scheduled surveillance. Logistic regression analysis revealed that younger age (under 50 years) (OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.04–6.88), lymph node-positive breast cancer (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.03–4.39) and breast cancer of the HER2 positive subtype (OR 5.24, 95% CI 1.40–25.90) were correlated with higher odds of detecting a recurrence outside of planned surveillance.

Conclusion
Most recurrent events were detected outside of scheduled surveillance, particularly for locoregional recurrences. Risk-based surveillance, which takes into account patient and tumor characteristics, might be more suitable for specific patient subsets.
Modelling Residential Fire Vulnerability of Denmark
Authors: Crump Naomi , Markussen Bo , Oehmcke Stefan , Igel Christian , Skov-Petersen Hans , Karlsson Nyed Patrik 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This study analyzes socio-economic demographics (including Geomatic conzoom® segmented demographic variables) as well as building and property registration information as risk factors in relation to the prevalence of residential building fires within 100 m × 100 m cells. The logistic regression model achieved a receiver operating curve (ROC) of 0.74 and a precision-recall curve of 0.12 on the testing dataset. The model identifies 19 significant variables related to the risk of residential fire. The top 5 highest performing variables in our model and their odds ratios are the following: number of people (OR 1.25), Multi/family residence-building type (OR 1.20), number of buildings (OR 1.18), conzoom® Type C—Country/Rural Communities (OR 0.85), construction year (OR 0.87). These results indicate that socio-economic factors play a large role in influencing fire vulnerability within residential areas and can help prioritize resource allocation to reduce fire vulnerability in the identified risk factor groups.