bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse Problem in the Stochastic Approach to Modeling of Phase Transformations in Steels during Cooling after Hot Forming
Authors: Szeliga Danuta , Foryś Jakub , Jażdżewska Natalia , Kusiak Jan , Nadolski Rafał , Oprocha Piotr , Pietrzyk Maciej , Potorski Paweł , Przybyłowicz Paweł
Published: November 2024

The motivation for this research was the need for a reliable prediction of the distribution of microstructural parameters in steels during thermomechanical processing. The stochastic model describing the evolution of dislocation populations and grain size, which considers the random phenomena occurring during the hot forming of metallic alloys, was extended by including phase transformations during cooling. Accounting for a stochastic character of the nucleation of the new phase is the main feature of the model. Steel was selected as an example of the metallic alloy and equations describing the nucleation probability were proposed for ferrite, pearlite and bainite. The accuracy and reliability of the model depends on the correctness of the determination of the coefficients corresponding to the specific material. In the present paper these coefficients were identified using the inverse analysis for the experimental data. Experiments composed constant cooling rate tests for cooling rates in the range 0.1-20 °C/s. The inverse approach to a nonlinear model is ill-conditioned and must be transferred into an optimization problem, which requires formulating the appropriate objective function. Since the model is stochastic, it was a crucial, yet demanding task. The objective function based on a metric of the distance between measured and calculated histograms was proposed to achieve this goal. The original stochastic approach to identifying the phase transformation model for steels was tested, and an appropriate optimization strategy was proposed.
From gaming to surgery: the influence of digital natives on robotic skills development
Authors: Szabó Dominik Imre , Vereczkei András , Papp András
Published: November 2024

Our study investigates the potential correlation between generational differences, like age and previous experience with digital innovations, such as video games and smartphones, and the performance on the Da Vinci Skills Simulator, the cornerstone of robotic surgery training. Thirty participants were involved from three age groups: Generation Alpha, Generation Z, and Generation X. None had prior robotic surgical experience. Participants performed the Wrist Articulation 1 task on the Da Vinci Skills Simulator after two practice rounds. Analysis of performance metrics and statistical tests were conducted to assess the differences between groups. Additionally, participants had completed a survey on their habits related to video gaming, smartphone, and computer usage. A trend was observed where performance declined with age, meaning that Generation Alpha performed the most successfully compared to the other generations, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.51). However, significant differences were found in Glass Movement (GM) by Generation Z showing superior precision, making less errors (p = 0.019). The study found no correlation between simulator performance and early or frequent exposure to smartphones or video games. Interestingly, frequent two-thumb typing on smartphones correlated with better performance in the GM metric (p = 0.006). Generation Z demonstrated greater precision in handling the simulator, reflecting that robotic surgery training might be best to be started at the beginning of residency programs. Young doctors using two-thumb typing develop robotic surgery skills faster. Further studies are needed to determine whether this quicker learning would also lead to better skills later on.
Resonances and Formal Stability Investigation in Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Batkhin Alexander , Khaydarov Zafar
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a method for studying formal stability of equilibrium points in multiparameter Hamiltonian systems with three degrees of freedom. We detail a technique for the symbolic computation of resonance conditions, employing computer algebra and power geometry to represent the resonant variety as a rational algebraic curve and provide its polynomial parametrization. A non-trivial example of formal stability investigation is considered. An implementation of resonant variety calculations in the computer algebra system Maple is also discussed.
Inhibiting CD40 Ligand in Multiple Sclerosis: A Review of Emerging Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Vermersch Patrick , Wagner David , Mars Lennart T. , Noelle Randolph , Giovannoni Gavin
Published: November 2024

Purpose of Review

Current high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) primarily target adaptive immune cells in peripheral tissues, controlling focal inflammation (acute relapses and magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] activity). However, there is a need for new, safe therapies that address disease progression and disability accumulation in relapsing and progressive MS. The CD40/CD40L pathway, which regulates adaptive and innate immunity, is implicated in MS pathogenesis, making it a potential therapeutic target. Early clinical trials of anti-CD40L antibodies showed encouraging efficacy in autoimmune indications but were discontinued due to thromboembolic risk. Recent therapeutic advancements now allow researchers to leverage this pathway while reducing safety risks.

Recent Findings

Frexalimab is a humanized anti-CD40L immunoglobulin-G1 monoclonal antibody, Fc-engineered to overcome thromboembolic risk. It is the first second-generation anti-CD40L antibody being investigated in MS. In a randomized-controlled phase 2 trial, frexalimab was well-tolerated, showing rapid and sustained reduction in disease activity (assessed by MRI) while preserving lymphocyte levels.

Recent clinical findings strengthen the rationale for targeting CD40L in MS, supporting further development of anti-CD40L antibodies as potential high-efficacy, non-lymphocyte-depleting MS therapy. Further research is needed to understand the role of this pathway in MS pathogenesis and explore CD40L inhibition to address neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, where unmet medical needs exist.
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions: An Ethnographic Study of Researcher Discretion in Practice
Authors: van Drimmelen Tom , Slagboom M. Nienke , Reis Ria , Bouter Lex M. , van der Steen Jenny T.
Published: November 2024

This paper is a study of the decisions that researchers take during the execution of a research plan: their researcher discretion. Flexible research methods are generally seen as undesirable, and many methodologists urge to eliminate these so-called ‘researcher degrees of freedom’ from the research practice. However, what this looks like in practice is unclear. Based on twelve months of ethnographic fieldwork in two end-of-life research groups in which we observed research practice, conducted interviews, and collected documents, we explore when researchers are required to make decisions, and what these decisions entail.

An abductive analysis of this data showed that researchers are constantly required to further interpret research plans, indicating that there is no clear division between planning and plan execution. This discretion emerges either when a research protocol is underdetermined or overdetermined, in which case they need to operationalise or adapt the plans respectively. In addition, we found that many of these instances of researcher discretion are exercised implicitly. Within the research groups it was occasionally not clear which topic merited an active decision, or which action could retroactively be categorised as one.

Our ethnographic study of research practice suggests that researcher discretion is an integral and inevitable aspect of research practice, as many elements of a research protocol will either need to be further operationalised or adapted during its execution. Moreover, it may be difficult for researchers to identify their own discretion, limiting their effectivity in transparency.
Solutions of the Sinh-Gordon Equation of Spectral Genus Two and Constrained Willmore Tori I
Authors: Knopf M. , Peña Hoepner R. , Schmidt M. U.
Published: November 2024

In Pinkall and Sterling (Ann Math 130:407–451, 1989) and Hitchin (J Differ Geom 31:627–710, 1990) the solutions of the elliptic sinh-Gordon equation of finite spectral genus g are investigated. These solutions are parametrized by complex matrix-valued polynomials called potentials. On the space of these potentials there act two commuting flows. The orbits of these flows are called Polynomial Killing fields. For

$$g=2$$

g
=
2

they are double periodic. The eigenvalues of these matrix-valued polynomials are preserved along the flows and determine the lattice of periods. For

$$g = 2$$

g
=
2

, we investigate the level sets of these eigenvalues, which are called isospectral sets, and the dependence of the period lattice on the isospectral sets. The limiting cases of spectral genus one and zero are included. These limiting cases are used to construct on every elliptic curve three conformal maps to

$$\mathbb {H}$$

H

which are constrained Willmore. Finally, the Willmore functional is calculated in dependence of the conformal class.
Efficacy and safety of novel anticoagulant therapies in patients with chronic kidney disease—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Calderon Martinez Ernesto , Sanchez Cruz Camila , Diarte Acosta Edna Y. , Aguirre Cano Daniel Alejandro , Espinosa Ana Maria , Othón Martínez Diana , Furman Flor , Obando Vera Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including atrial fibrillation, which usually requires anticoagulant therapy. The effectiveness and safety of direct oral anticoagulants compared to vitamin K antagonists in patients with CKD remain insufficiently studied, particularly in the more advanced stages.

Methods

This systematic review, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023410192), adhered to PRISMA guidelines and included randomized clinical trials and cohort studies comparing direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists in CKD patients. Major databases were searched, and studies were selected based on strict inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models.

Results

Twenty-three studies with a total of 465,673 CKD patients were included. Direct oral anticoagulants showed a significant reduction in major bleeding events compared to vitamin K antagonists (Relative Risk [RR] = 0.62, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.49–0.79, p < 0.01) and a non-significant trend toward reducing thromboembolic events (RR = 0.69, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.43–1.14, p = 0.11). Furthermore, direct oral anticoagulants were associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (RR = 0.63, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.43–0.91, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Direct oral anticoagulants may offer a safe alternative to vitamin K antagonists in CKD patients, particularly in terms of reducing bleeding risks and potentially improving survival. However, their role in preventing thromboembolic events remains uncertain, highlighting the need for further research, especially in patients with advanced CKD and kidney failure. 

Graphical abstract
Monodromy of Picard–Fuchs system for a family of K3 toric hypersurfaces and fixed points of the Hilbert modular group for $$\mathbb {Q}(\sqrt{2})$$
Authors: Ishige Toshimasa
Published: November 2024

We solve the monodromy problem about the Picard–Fuchs system for the two-parameter family of the anticanonical hypersurfaces in the toric three-fold arising from a specific reflexive polytope. The members of the family are resolved to be K3 surfaces polarized by a lattice of signature (1, 17) with discriminant $$-8$$

-
8

. The Picard–Fuchs system consists of two hypergeometric differential equations of order 2 with the four-dimensional solution space. The independent variables are affine coordinates of the punctured weighted projective space $$\mathbb {P}(1,2,3)\hspace{1.111pt}{\setminus }\hspace{1.111pt}\{(1,0,0)\}$$

P
(
1
,
2
,
3
)

\

{
(
1
,
0
,
0
)
}

which forms a moduli space of the family. We construct the isomorphism from $$\mathbb {P}(1,2,3)\hspace{1.111pt}{\setminus }\hspace{1.111pt}\{(1,0,0)\}$$

P
(
1
,
2
,
3
)

\

{
(
1
,
0
,
0
)
}

to the symmetric Hilbert modular orbifold $$\mathbb {H}^2/\langle \text {PSL}_2(\mathscr {O}_K),\tau _1\rangle $$

H

2

/

⟨

PSL
2

(

O
K

)

,

τ
1

⟩

for $$K=\mathbb {Q}(\sqrt{2})$$

K
=
Q
(

2

)

and its inverse as a triplet of symmetric Hilbert modular forms. Here (1, 0, 0) corresponds to the cusp. As the fundamental set of solutions, we take a set of series convergent near the cusp. We obtain the generators of the monodromy group in $$\text {GL}_4(\mathbb {Z})$$

GL
4

(
Z
)

by deforming the domains for the period integrals expressing the solutions. We construct the isomorphism from the monodromy group to $$\langle \text {PSL}_2(\mathscr {O}_K),\tau _1\rangle $$

⟨

PSL
2

(

O
K

)

,

τ
1

⟩

. Using the monodromy, we obtain fixed points of the Hilbert modular group $$\text {PSL}_2(\mathscr {O}_K)$$

PSL
2

(

O
K

)

and their respective isotropy groups, which are consistent with the results of the prior research taking an arithmetic approach.
Assessment tools addressing avoidable care transitions in older adults: a systematic literature review
Authors: Makhmutov Rustem , Calle Egusquiza Alicia , Roqueta Guillen Cristina , Amor Fernandez Eva-Maria , Meyer Gabriele , E. Ellen Moriah , Fleischer Steffen , Renom Guiteras Anna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The phenomenon of avoidable care transitions has received increasing attention over the last decades due to its frequency and associated burden for the patients and the healthcare system. A number of assessment tools to identify avoidable transitions have been designed and implemented. The selection of the most appropriate tool appears to be challenging and time-consuming. This systematic review aimed to identify and comprehensively describe the assessment tools that can support stakeholders´ care transition decisions on older adults.

Methods

This study was conducted as part of the TRANS-SENIOR research network. A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed, CINAHL, and CENTRAL. No restrictions regarding publication date and language were applied.

Results

The search in three electronic databases revealed 1266 references and screening for eligibility resulted in 58 articles for inclusion. A total of 48 assessment tools were identified covering different concepts, judgement processes, and transition destinations. We found variation in the comprehensiveness of the tools with regard to dimensions used in the judgement process.

Conclusion

All tools are not comprehensive with respect to the dimensions covered, as they address only one or a few perspectives. Although assessment tools can be useful in clinical practice, it is worth it to bear in mind that they are meant to support decision-making and supplement the care professional´s judgement, instead of replacing it. Our review might guide clinicians and researchers in choosing the right tool for identification of avoidable care transitions, and thus support informed decision-making.
Affective, cognitive, and contextual cues in Reddit posts on artificial intelligence
Authors: Savela Nina , Pellert Max , Latikka Rita , Bergdahl Jenna , Garcia David , Oksanen Atte
Published: November 2024

Artificially intelligent technologies have become a common topic in our everyday discussions where arguments about the subject can take different forms from cognitive reasoning to emotional expressions. Utilizing persuasion theories and research on the appeal of content characteristics as the theoretical approach to examine affective–cognitive language, we investigated social media posts on artificial intelligence (AI). We examined Reddit posts from 2005 to 2018 referring to AI (N = 455,634) using automated content analysis tools. The results revealed that although both the tone positivity and affective–cognitive ratio were dependent on the specific context, the language in AI posts was more analytically than emotionally oriented in general. Other users were more likely to engage with Reddit posts on AI that were high in cognitive and analytic content compared to affective and emotional content. In addition to the practical contribution of public opinion on AI, the results contribute to the theoretical discussions on affective and cognitive language in social media discussions.
Productive forces and the contradictions of capitalist agriculture: agroecology as a sustainable alternative in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ekumah Bernard
Published: November 2024

This paper critiques the assumption that capitalist agriculture inherently develops productive forces, highlighting its internal contradictions and questioning its sustainability as a viable agricultural model. Using immanent critique, the paper engages with the capitalist framework on its own terms to demonstrate how its focus on profit maximisation and short-term productivity leads to long-term ecological degradation, social inequities, and the erosion of essential agroecological knowledge. The focus is on Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region with immense agricultural potential, regarded as the last frontier of capitalist agricultural development and heavily affected by the ecological crises. The paper argues that agroecology offers a sustainable alternative that prioritises social justice, environmental sustainability, and the empowerment of smallholder farmers. Integrating traditional agroecological knowledge with scientific innovation, agroecology challenges the dominant capitalist model, proposing a more just and resilient agricultural system for SSA. It concludes by emphasising the critical role of social movements in driving the transition to agroecology in the region.
Matrix convexity and unitary power dilations of Toeplitz-contractive operator tuples
Authors: Farenick Douglas
Published: November 2024

Using works of T. Ando and L. Gurvits, the well-known theorem of P.R. Halmos concerning the existence of unitary dilations for contractive linear operators acting on Hilbert spaces is recast as a result for d-tuples of contractive Hilbert space operators satisfying a certain matrix-positivity condition. Such operator d-tuples satisfying this matrix-positivity condition are called, herein, Toeplitz-contractive, and a characterisation of the Toeplitz-contractivity condition is presented. The matrix-positivity condition leads to definitions of new distance-measures in several variable operator theory, generalising the notions of norm, numerical radius, and spectral radius to d-tuples of operators (commuting, for the spectral radius) in what appears to be a novel, asymmetric way. Toeplitz contractive operators form a noncommutative convex set, and a scaling constant $$c_d$$

c
d

for inclusions of the minimal and maximal matrix convex sets determined by a stretching of the unit circle $$S^1$$

S
1

across d complex dimensions is shown to exist.
Experimental research on detonation initiation and transition in millimeter-scale planar combustion chambers
Authors: Gao Y. , Yan Y. , Wang Z. , Yang B. , Hu H.
Published: November 2024

To investigate the flame acceleration to detonation in 2.0 and 0.5 mm planar glass combustion chambers, the experiments have been conducted utilising ethylene/oxygen mixtures at atmospheric pressure and temperature. The high-speed camera has been used to record the revolution of flame front and pressure inside the combustion chamber. Different equivalence ratios and ignition locations have been considered in the experiments. The results show that the detonation pressure in the 2 mm thick chamber is nearly three times of Chapman-Jouguet pressure, while detonation pressure in the 0.5 mm thick chamber is only 45.7% of the Chapman-Jouguet value at the stoichiometric mixture. This phenomenon is attributed to the larger pressure loss in the thinner chamber during the detonation propagation. As the value of equivalence ratio is 2.2, the detonation cannot be produced in the 2 mm thick chamber, while the detonation can be generated successfully in the 0.5 mm thick chamber. This phenomenon indicates that the deflagration is easily to be accelerated and transformed into the detonation, due to a larger wall friction and reflection. Besides, the micro-obstacle has been added into the combustor can shorten the detonation transition time and reduces the distance of the detonation transition.
To increase trust in clinical research: Be worthy of trust and enhance the role of clinical research nurses
Authors: Devine Rita K. , Capili Bernadette , Kost Rhonda G. , Krueger James G. , Coller Barry S.
Published: November 2024

There has been an erosion of trust in medical care and clinical research, and this has raised issues about whether institutions and investigators conducting clinical research are worthy of trust. We review recent literature on research on trust and trustworthiness in the clinical research enterprise and identify opportunities to enhance trustworthiness, which will likely increase participant trust in clinical research. In addition, we review materials reporting the results of national polls related to the public’s trust in different occupations. The literature on trustworthiness and trust is complex and suffers from a lack of agreement on definitions of trust and trustworthiness and actions to enhance trustworthiness. Nonetheless, institutions need to take action to address the many elements that contribute to being perceived as trustworthy. As a complementary approach, since nurses have consistently ranked highest on trust by the public for twenty-two straight years, we analyze the features that likely account for the public’s uniform high regard for nurses. We propose specific actions to enhance the role of research nurses in the research enterprise, without compromising their primary role as participant advocates, that we have adopted at Rockefeller University to gain the benefits of the public’s trust in nurses in building trustworthiness.
Effects of n-3 very-long-chain PUFA on bone mineralisation
Authors: Torrissen Martina , Ytteborg Elisabeth , Svensen Harald , Østbye Tone-Kari , Berge Gerd , Reppe Sjur , Krasnov Aleksei , Ruyter Bente
Published: November 2024

The present study investigated whether dietary n-3 very-long-chain PUFA (n-3 VLC-PUFA) could increase skin and bone mineralisation in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in vivo and examined their potential effects on human osteoblast proliferation and differentiation in vitro. Atlantic salmon were fed different dietary levels of n-3 VLC-PUFA, and changes in tissue n-3 VLC-PUFA composition, skeletal morphology, skin and bone mineral content, bone mineral density (BMD) and gene expression patterns were examined. Additionally, in vitro experiments using human foetal osteoblast cells were conducted to investigate the potential influence of n-3 VLC-PUFA supplementation on cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and cytokine expression. The results demonstrated that increasing the dietary levels of n-3 VLC-PUFA increased the mineral content of vertebrae and BMD in salmon, with subtle yet significant impacts on the expression of genes involved in bone-related processes. Furthermore, in vitro experiments showed a potential contextual influence of n-3 VLC-PUFA supplementation on gene expression of osteogenic markers and cytokine expression. Our findings indicate for the first time that n-3 VLC-PUFA may influence processes related to bone mineralisation.
Foods provided at shelters during a heavy rain disaster: comparison of weighed food records between different numbers of days
Authors: Sato Hiroka , Sudo Noriko , Nagao-Sato Sayaka , Tsuboyama-Kasaoka Nobuyo
Published: November 2024

Dietitians working at evacuation shelters conduct weighed food records (WFR) for multiple days for dietary assessment. Because the menus in evacuation shelters do not change much from day to day, this study examined whether 1- and 2-d WFR are sufficient for dietary assessment at shelters and identified dietary components that can influence the number of assessment days. Overall, twenty-six WFR were collected from ten shelters in Kumamoto Prefecture, and the amounts of energy; protein; vitamins B1, B2 and C and salt were calculated. Correlation analysis and paired sample tests were conducted to examine significant differences between ‘one- and two-consecutive- or non-consecutive-day WFR’ and ‘three-consecutive-day WFR’, which were set as the standard in this study. Additionally, the (CV for the categories by meal and dish were calculated to examine the variables that affected the large variations. As a result, 1-d WFR had significant positive correlations with the standard; thus, it could be used for the triage of shelters requiring nutrition assistance as a substitute for 3-d WFR. Two-consecutive-day and non-consecutive-day WFR showed a stronger correlation with the standard compared with the 1-d WFR. For energy and nutrients and dish categories, ready-to-eat foods had larger CV than boxed meals or foods from hot meal services. Whenever the meals included ready-to-eat foods, a two-non-consecutive-day WFR is recommended considering large between-day variations. Salty soup or beverages affected the variation of some nutrients. Our result would help municipalities to consider the number of WFR during emergency.
Plingo: A System for Probabilistic Reasoning in Answer Set Programming
Authors: HAHN SUSANA , JANHUNEN TOMI , KAMINSKI ROLAND , ROMERO JAVIER , RÜHLING NICOLAS , SCHAUB TORSTEN
Published: November 2024

We present plingo, an extension of the answer set programming (ASP) system clingo that incorporates various probabilistic reasoning modes. Plingo is based on

$\textit{Lpmln}^{\pm }$

, a simple variant of the probabilistic language Lpmln, which follows a weighted scheme derived from Markov logic. This choice is motivated by the fact that the main probabilistic reasoning modes can be mapped onto enumeration and optimization problems and that

$\textit{Lpmln}^{\pm }$

may serve as a middle-ground formalism connecting to other probabilistic approaches. Plingo offers three alternative frontends, for Lpmln, P-log, and ProbLog. These input languages and reasoning modes are implemented by means of clingo’s multi-shot and theory-solving capabilities. In this way, the core of plingo is an implementation of

$\textit{Lpmln}^{\pm }$

in terms of modern ASP technology. On top of that, plingo implements a new approximation technique based on a recent method for answer set enumeration in the order of optimality. Additionally, in this work, we introduce a novel translation from

$\textit{Lpmln}^{\pm }$

to ProbLog. This leads to a new solving method in plingo where the input program is translated and a ProbLog solver is executed. Our empirical evaluation shows that the different solving approaches of plingo are complementary and that plingo performs similarly to other probabilistic reasoning systems.
A Riddle Wrapped in a Mystery: The Elusive E at Delphi
Authors: Pellerin Daniel
Published: November 2024

There has been no dearth, since Plutarch’s day at least, of erudite theories about what message the E at Apollo’s temple was meant to convey to visitors. Yet no account so far has added up to a truly compelling answer, not for lack of ingenuity, but because the various approaches have tended so strongly towards the sophisticated and artful, rather than the probable. This article will review why the familiar answers are more impressive than convincing, and will propose in their place a much simpler explanation: namely that the E was meant to represent the mysterious itself, reminding pilgrims that they were entering a realm where logos continued to hold sway, to be sure, as the other inscriptions testified, but where the human intellect must leave room for mantic wisdom, and where logical reasoning must be supplemented with contemplation and meditation upon the enigmatic, the hidden, and the ineffable.
Decentralized armed groups: Can they be classified as parties to non-international armed conflicts?
Authors: Vité Sylvain , Gallino Isabelle
Published: November 2024

This article explores the potential classification of decentralized armed groups in non-international armed conflicts (NIACs). Unlike centralized armed groups, decentralized groups consist of fluid alliances of small subunits or cells with loose coordination between them. The central question explored by the authors is whether such groups meet the minimum organizational criterion to be considered parties to an armed conflict under international humanitarian law (IHL). The authors argue that, while not possessing the same chain of command as centralized armed groups, decentralized armed groups can, under certain conditions, nevertheless fulfil the criteria for conflict classification. Judicial precedents and IHL interpretation point to this conclusion where the absence of a centralized command structure within the group can be compensated by the existence of other factors attesting to the group's organization, such as the exercise of operational command over armed subunits, with the intensity of violence being an additional element suggesting the overall organization of the group. Ultimately, this interpretation would ensure the applicability of a legal framework that would better reflect the intensity of armed confrontations on the ground, and bind both States and non-State parties to a NIAC alike.
Distinct patient characteristics are associated with clinical presentation and prognosis in thromboangiitis obliterans
Authors: Gawaz Andrea , Kristin Henes Jessica , Schlegel Simon , Castor Tatsiana , Müller Karin , Gawaz Meinrad , Rath Dominik
Published: November 2024

Summary: Background: Thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) is a rare but threatening disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The pathophysiology is poorly understood, the diagnosis is often obscure and causal treatment options are limited. In the current study, we aimed to identify distinct TAO patient clusters that differed in clinical presentation and prognosis. Patients and methods: We retrospectively analysed a cohort of 48 patients with the working diagnosis TAO who were assessed for clinical presentation at hospital admission. We applied hierarchical clustering to divide patients into clinically meaningful subgroups. Results: Patients were followed-up for a median of 95 months. We found that cluster analyses including a variety of demographic and diagnostic parameters were valuable to identify patient subgroups with similar clinical presentation, but with different clinical course of the disease, including the individual risk for mortality and major amputation. Patients treated with statins showed a significantly better survival, which may allow us to hypothesize that a conventional secondary prevention strategy, which is recommended for atherosclerotic artery diseases, may be of benefit also in patients that present with TAO. Conclusions: The current data may help to develop strategies to identify high-risk TAO patients. Furthermore, statins may serve as a readily available therapeutic option to this rare but serious disease.
The Perceived Instrumental Effects of Violence in Sport (PIEVS) Scale
Authors: Schwab Laurie , Röthlin Philipp , Philippe Roberta Antonini , Horvath Stephan
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Beliefs about the instrumental effects of violence are a factor explaining abuse in sports. The availability of a valid and reliable scale to measure these beliefs can contribute to a better understanding of their nature and role in facilitating violence. This article introduces and validates the German version of the Perceived Instrumental Effects of Violence in Sport Scale (PIEVS-G-14). Study 1 examines the translation and evaluation of the scale structure, the development of a short version (PIEVS-G-6), and the construct validity and reliability of both the full and short versions in a sample of youth sports coaches ( n = 628). Studies 2 ( n = 444) and 3 ( n = 423) focus on cross-validating the structure of the PIEVS-G-14 and PIEVS-G-6 in two independent samples of youth sports coaches and provide further evidence of the construct validity and reliability of the scales. The results of the dimensional and psychometric tests offer evidence of the suitability of the PIEVS-G-14 and PIEVS-G-6 for use in German-speaking sports contexts.
Changes in Personality Traits Predict Future Self-Control
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Using longitudinal data from over 14,000 participants in the Household, Income, and Labor Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, this study examined how levels of personality traits and their changes predict future self-control. The Big Five traits were assessed at four points between 2005 and 2017. Self-control was evaluated in 2019. For data analysis, latent growth curve analyses were performed. While the initial levels of extraversion and openness showed negligible predictive effects, conscientiousness, emotional stability, and agreeableness more strongly predicted future self-control. Furthermore, the results showed that increases in conscientiousness, emotional stability, and agreeableness were associated with higher future self-control. These results provide new insights into the relationship between personality traits and self-control by showing the predictive power of initial trait levels and their developmental trajectories.
Auriferous Fluid Evolution and the Role of Carbonaceous Matter in a Saddle‐Reef Gold Deposit: Dufferin Deposit, Meguma Terrane, Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Kerr Mitchell J. , Hanley Jacob J. , Kontak Daniel J. , Ramlochund Preetysha , Zajacz Zoltán
Published: November 2024

The metaturbidite‐hosted, ∼380 Ma Dufferin gold deposit, Meguma terrane, northeastern Appalachian Orogen (Nova Scotia, Canada) is an orogenic gold deposit with mineralized saddle reef‐type quartz veins hosted by metasandstones and black slates in a tightly folded anticline. Together with native gold inclusions, genetically related hydrothermal carbonaceous material (CM) in veins occurs as pyrobitumen in cavities and along fractures/grain boundaries proximal to vein contacts and wallrock fragments. Integrating several microanalytical methods we document the precipitation of gold via coupled fluid‐fO2 reduction (via interaction with CM) and pH increase. These changes in fluid chemistry destabilized gold bisulfide complexes, leading to efficient Au precipitation from a gold‐undersaturated (0.045 ± 0.024 ppm Au; 1σ; n = 58 fluid inclusions) aqueous‐carbonic fluid (H2O‐NaCl‐CO2 ± N2 ± CH4). The proposed mineralization mechanism is supported by: (a) a complementary decrease in Au and redox‐sensitive semimetals (As, Sb), and increase in wall rock‐derived elements (i.e., Mg, K, Ca, Sr, Fe) concentrations in fluid inclusions with time; (b) a corresponding decrease in the XCO2, consistent with CO2 removal via reduction/respeciation and late carbonate precipitation; and (c) gold embedding in, or on, the surface of CM inside mineralized cavities and fractures. Despite mineralizing fluids transporting low concentrations of Au far from saturation, precipitation of gold was locally evidently high where such fluids interacted with CM, contributing to the overall gold endowment of Meguma deposits. This work re‐emphasizes CM as a potential prerequisite for efficient gold precipitation within the overall genetic model for similar orogenic metasedimentary settings globally where the presence and/or role of CM has been documented.
Growing Threat of Tropical Cyclone Disasters in Inland Areas of East China
Authors: Yan Feng , Shan Kaiyue , Zhao Haikun , Yu Xiping
Published: November 2024

Tropical cyclones (TCs) pose a substantial threat to human life and property, with China being among the most affected countries. In this study, a significant increasing trend is detected for TC destructiveness, primarily measured by precipitation, and for TC‐induced damage, measured by direct economic losses (DELs), in the inland areas of East China. In contrast, a similar trend cannot be observed in the coastal regions. The rapid increase of TC‐induced damage in the inland areas of East China is directly related to an increase of the annual number of disastrous TCs, which is a result of the increased TC landfall frequency and the increased TC decay timescale after landfall. The increase in specific humidity, soil moisture, and the decrease in vertical wind shear in East China favor the survival of TCs inland. Our results highlight the significance of TC disaster prevention in the inland regions.
Statistics of Higher Harmonics SRS at Low Latitude Station, Shillong
Authors: Adhitya P. , Bulusu Jayashree , Nosé Masahito , Vichare Geeta , Dimri A. P.
Published: November 2024

This is the first statistical ground investigation of unique low latitude Spectral Resonance Structures (SRS) that increase beyond , crossing the fundamental Schumann resonance at few occurrences. The study is carried out using high resolution magnetic field variation data obtained from induction coil magnetometer (ICM) installed at very low latitude Indian station, Shillong ( geographic latitude, geographic longitude, ) for the duration 2013–2018. This study focuses on the characteristics of SRS whose harmonic frequencies reach and above. The study reveals that the occurrence of SRS events above is higher in winter as compared to summer, also the occurrence is higher during low solar activity period as compared to period of solar maximum. It is seen that both the cavities, viz. Ionospheric Alfven Resonator (IAR) and Magnetospheric Alfven Resonator (MAR) support such SRS and have their respective quality factor (Q‐factor). The seasonal variability of the Q‐factor of these cavities also shows a trend similar to the occurrence, with higher values of Q‐factor during winter as compared to summer. Dependence of SRS events on parameters such as height of the IAR cavity, ion mass density, conductivities, which affects the Q‐factor reveals that IAR above is supported by a larger height of the cavity with very low ion densities. On the other hand, the MAR cavity efficiency is higher when the Alfven wave conductance is much larger than the Pedersen conductivity.
Impact of Interplanetary Magnetic Field By on Subauroral Polarization Streams at Dawn and Dusk
Authors: Sun Yu , Wang Hui , Zhang Kedeng
Published: November 2024

This study uses 8 years of DMSP data to examine how the polarity of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) By influences the strength and latitude of subauroral polarization streams (SAPS), alongside field‐aligned currents (FACs). Significant local time, seasonal, and hemispheric differences are observed. At dusk, R1 (Region 1) FACs are found poleward and R2 (Region 2) FACs equatorward of peak SAPS; at dawn, SAPS are positioned equatorward of upward R2 FACs. In the Northern Hemisphere (NH), SAPS are stronger under IMF By > 0 at dusk, while in the Southern Hemisphere (SH), SAPS are stronger under IMF By < 0. Dawnside SAPS tends to be stronger under IMF By < 0. Duskside R1 FACs are stronger under IMF By < 0, with seasonal variations in R2 FACs, whereas dawnside R2 FACs prefer IMF By > 0. SAPS latitudes vary seasonally with IMF By polarity, showing more poleward SH SAPS under IMF By > 0. Ionospheric upflows exhibit similar IMF By polarity dependence as SAPS at dusk, but this influence diminishes at dawn. Model simulations underscore how IMF By affects SAPS dynamics through FACs and conductivity gradients, highlighting larger NH (SH) SAPS under positive IMF By at dusk (dawn) compared to its SH (NH) counterpart.
A Novel Determination of the Foreshock ULF Boundary: Statistical Approach
Authors: Salohub A. , Šafránková J. , Němeček Z. , Pi G.
Published: November 2024

The location and spatial extent of the region populated by the foreshock waves depend on the IMF orientation. We performed a systematic statistical study of wave activity in the frequency range of  Hz observed during an initial phase of the THEMIS mission. Wave activity is quantified by standard deviations of the IMF magnitude and its components over 10‐min intervals. We apply the foreshock coordinate system defined as the angle between the bow shock normal and upstream magnetic field vectors and the distance from the spacecraft to bow shock along the magnetic field line. We have found that the Ultra‐low Frequency (ULF) foreshock boundary (a) is well defined in these coordinates, (b) it tends to shift outward with an increasing solar wind bulk speed, and (c) with an increasing Mach number. However, the change of the fluctuation level in the foreshock is not uniform because the increasing solar wind bulk speed enhances the fluctuation level mainly in a close proximity of the bow shock whereas the increasing Mach number leads to an intensification of fluctuation levels at the foreshock boundary.
Refraction of ELF Electromagnetic Waves by the Ionospheric Gradients at the Day/Night Terminator Measured at the Hylaty Station
Authors: Ostrowski M. , Gołkowski M. , Kubisz J. , Michalec A. , Mlynarczyk J. , Nieckarz Z.
Published: November 2024

We perform azimuth time tracking of multiple thunderstorm centers on the globe, which are sources of extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic waves propagating in the spherical Earth‐ionosphere cavity. For observations made in September 2023 we identify azimuths of numerous global emission centers using our data sampled at 3 kHz at the Hylaty station in Poland. We confirm significant and relatively regular thunderstorm azimuth variation during the solar terminator passage over the observation site. The magnitude and duration of the azimuth deviations depend on the observed azimuths but are also varying between successive days and changing detailed thunderstorm activity patterns. The measured maximum positive (preferentially at the sunrise time) and negative (preferentially at the sunset time) azimuth deviations reach even above 20 for waves propagating close to the terminator. We discovered also particular composite deviation structures, with the negative azimuth deviation directly preceding a larger positive one, sometimes occurring near the morning terminator passage 100 km above the surface. It is possibly the first detection of the ELF equivalent of the “greyline” transmission known in the HF radio propagation. At azimuths distant from the terminator one can observe decreasing of the regular deviation magnitude and occasionally lower magnitude deviations with opposite sign. The variations between successive days are expected to result from varying thunderstorm activity on Earth as well variability of ionospheric parameters, in particular of ionization gradients and nonuniformities occurring along the terminator. We postulate that the observed deviations result from a signal refraction at the varying ionospheric gradients.
Large Contributions of Gas‐Particle Partitioning and Heterogenous Processes to Particulate Nitroaromatic Compounds at a Mountain Site Revealed by Observation‐Based and Multiphase Modeling
Authors: Li Min , Wang Xinfeng , Li Jiazheng , Liu Mingxuan , Li Hongyong , Zhao Min , Guo Yingzhe , Liu Yuhong , Dong Shuwei , Wu Di , Guo Zhaoxin , Xue Likun , Zhou Yang , Wang Yan , Wang Wenxing
Published: November 2024

Particulate nitroaromatic compounds (NACs), among the major atmospheric components of light‐absorbing brown carbon, have garnered increasing attentions due to their impacts on atmospheric environment and ecological health. However, there is a scarcity of comprehensive understanding on their origins and formation pathways. In this study, 14 particulate NACs were measured at high time resolution at the summit of Mount Tai over North China Plain in winter with an average concentration of 30.5 ng m−3. The relatively higher concentrations and distinct diurnal profiles of NACs suggest the occurrence of strong secondary formation driven from polluted urban plumes transported by mountain‐valley breezes, elevated NOx and precursor levels, and strong oxidation capacity. An observationally constrained multiphase chemical box model was developed and employed to elucidate the origins and formation pathways of NACs. They mainly came from the air mass transport from the polluted urban regions to the mountaintop during the day, while the nocturnal NACs formation is dominated by the partitioning of gaseous NACs to the particle phase and heterogenous processes on aerosols. This work provides observational evidence of elevated NACs levels at high mountain site as well as modeling reference for multiphase processes of particulate NACs and the contributions from different formation pathways to a large degree addressing the problem of underestimation in traditional models.
A handheld HIV detection platform using paper-based sample preparation and real-time isothermal amplification
Authors: Adedokun George , Sidhu Gurjit , Alipanah Morteza , Wang Gary P. , Fan Z. Hugh
Published: November 2024

Early and accurate diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is essential for timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prevention of new infections. However, conventional nucleic-acid-based tests for HIV detection require sophisticated laboratory equipment and trained personnel, which are often unavailable at the point-of-care (POC) or unaffordable in resource-limited settings. We report our development of a low-cost, integrated platform for POC testing of HIV. The platform integrates viral nucleic acid extraction on a paper substrate and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) in a portable, battery-powered heating device with real-time detection. The platform does not require laboratory infrastructure such as power outlets. The assay showed a detection limit of 30 copies/mL of HIV RNA in 140 μL human serum or 4 copies/reaction using 50 μL human serum, with no cross-reactivity with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We validated the platform using both plasma samples spiked with HIV and clinical samples from HIV-positive individuals, and compared it with standard laboratory assays based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These results demonstrate the feasibility of our platform for HIV testing at the POC.
Miniaturized silicon-based capacitive six-axis force/torque sensor with large range, high sensitivity, and low crosstalk
Authors: Tan Renjie , Xia Yong , Han Xiangguang , Huang Linya , Gao Wendi , Jia Chen , Yang Ping , Lin Qijing , Ding Shujiang , Wang Chenying , Zhao Libo
Published: November 2024

Miniaturized six-axis force/torque sensors have potential applications in robotic tactile sensing, minimally invasive surgery, and other narrow operating spaces, where currently available commercial sensors cannot meet the requirements because of their large size. In this study, a silicon-based capacitive six-axis force/torque sensing chip with a small size of 9.3 × 9.3 × 0.98 mm was designed, fabricated, and tested. A sandwich decoupling structure with a symmetrical layered arrangement of S-shaped beams, comb capacitors, and parallel capacitors was employed. A decoupling theory considering eccentricity and nonlinear effects was derived to realize low axial crosstalk. The proposed S-shaped beams achieved a large measurement range through stress optimization. The results of a coupled multiphysics field finite-element simulation agreed well with those of theoretical analyses. The test results show that the proposed sensing chip can detect six-axis force/torque separately, with all crosstalk errors less than 2.59%FS. Its force and torque measurement ranges can reach as much as 2.5 N and 12.5 N·mm, respectively. The sensing chip also has high sensitivities of 0.52 pF/N and 0.27 pF/(N·mm) for force and torque detection, respectively.