bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational 3D resolution enhancement for optical coherence tomography with a narrowband visible light source
Authors: de Wit Jos , Glentis George-Othon , Kalkman Jeroen
Published: May 2023

Phase-preserving spectral estimation optical coherence tomography (SE-OCT) enables combining axial resolution improvement with computational depth of field (DOF) extension. We show that the combination of SE-OCT with interferometric synthetic aperture microscopy (ISAM) and computational adaptive optics (CAO) results in high 3D resolution over a large depth range for an OCT system with a narrow bandwidth visible light super-luminescent diode (SLD). SE-OCT results in up to five times axial resolution improvement from 8 µm to 1.5 µm. The combination with ISAM gives a sub-micron lateral resolution over a 400 µm axial range, which is at least 16 times the conventional depth of field. CAO can be successfully applied after SE and ISAM and removes residual aberrations, resulting in high quality images. The results show that phase-preserving SE-OCT is sufficiently accurate for coherent post-processing, enabling the use of cost-effective SLDs in the visible light range for high spatial resolution OCT.
Investigation of refractive index dynamics during in vitro embryo development using off-axis digital holographic microscopy
Authors: Dwapanyin George O. , Chow Darren J. X. , Tan Tiffany C. Y. , Dubost Nicolas S. , Morizet Josephine M. , Dunning Kylie R. , Dholakia Kishan
Published: May 2023

Embryo quality is a crucial factor affecting live birth outcomes. However, an accurate diagnostic for embryo quality remains elusive in the in vitro fertilization clinic. Determining physical parameters of the embryo may offer key information for this purpose. Here, we demonstrate that digital holographic microscopy (DHM) can rapidly and non-invasively assess the refractive index of mouse embryos. Murine embryos were cultured in either low- or high-lipid containing media and digital holograms recorded at various stages of development. The phase of the recorded hologram was numerically retrieved, from which the refractive index of the embryo was calculated. We showed that DHM can detect spatio-temporal changes in refractive index during embryo development that are reflective of its lipid content. As accumulation of intracellular lipid is known to compromise embryo health, DHM may prove beneficial in developing an accurate, non-invasive, multimodal diagnostic.
Analytical model of direct-Bragg, exchange-Bragg, and evanescent coupling in a dual-waveguide structure and its application to single-mode lasing
Authors: Tennant Bryce A. , Maywar Drew N.
Published: May 2023

Single-mode distributed-feedback lasing is explored for an asynchronous dual-waveguide
uniform-grating structure that exhibits exchange-Bragg and evanescent
coupling between optical modes of the two waveguides as well as
direct-Bragg coupling between optical modes within each waveguide.
Coupled-mode equations governing all coupling processes are presented
and solved, yielding an analytical solution that is applicable to a
variety of single-mode lasing mechanisms. We leverage this solution to
elucidate the lasing mechanism in which the photonic bandgap (PBG) due
to exchange-Bragg coupling is aligned to and suppresses a degenerate
lasing mode associated with the direct-Bragg PBG of the active
waveguide. PBG alignment and mode suppression are achieved for a range
of values of Henry’s alpha, direct-Bragg coupling, exchange-Bragg
coupling, and evanescent coupling that yield at-threshold gain margin
and longitudinal power flatness superior to those of the benchmark λ/4-shifted DFB lasing structure. Such
performance includes a gain margin ΔαL=0.88 for a minimum flatness F=0.0006, enabled by the power-transfer action
of evanescent coupling. The dual-waveguide geometry and superior
predicted performance make the structure compelling for both III-V and
heterogeneous III-V-on-silicon platforms.
Scaling Comb-Driven Resonator-Based DWDM Silicon Photonic Links to Multi-Tb/s in the Multi-FSR Regime
Authors: James Aneek , Novick Asher , Rizzo Anthony , Parsons Robert , Jang Kaylx , Hattink Maarten , Bergman Keren
Published: May 2023

The use of chip-based micro-resonator Kerr frequency combs in conjunction with dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) enables massively parallel intensity-modulated direct-detection (IM-DD) data transmission with low energy consumption. Resonator-based modulators and filters used in such systems can limit the number of usable wavelength channels due to practical constraints on the maximum achievable free spectral range (FSR). In this work, we introduce the design of multi-Tb/s comb-driven resonator-based silicon photonic links by leveraging the multi-FSR regime. We demonstrate the viability of the link architecture with yield estimates that are supported by extensive wafer-scale measurements of 704 micro-resonators fabricated in a commercial complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) foundry. We show that a 2.80 Tb/s link is realizable with a ≥ 6σ yield (~99.999%), and aggregate bandwidths of 3.76 Tb/s and 4.72 Tb/s are possible if yield targets are relaxed (3σ and 1σ respectively). All designs represent a 1.94—3.28× boost to aggregate link bandwidth while maintaining BER ≤ 10−10 performance, with a theoretical bandwidth of 10.51 Tb/s being possible for sufficiently robust resonators. We use high-speed BER measurements to inform co-optimization of data rate and aggressor spacing (λag), limiting any additional loss-based power penalties to off-resonance insertion loss (IL) and routing loss. This work demonstrates that, through the multi-FSR regime, there is a clear path toward Kerr comb-driven ultra-broadband, high bandwidth silicon photonic links that can support next-generation data centers and high performance computers.
Highly reliable integrated W-band transmitter based on an on-chip dual-mode DFB laser and cascaded microring modulators
Authors: Liu Xuying , Zhang Wenjia , Jiang Yue , Wang Han , Lu Dan , Yang Fan , He Zuyuan
Published: May 2023

We propose an integrated W-band transmitter enabled by an integrated dual-mode distributed feedback (DFB) laser and cascaded silicon photonic microring modulators for next-generation wireless communication. 10 Gb/s error-free intensity modulation and direct detection W-band transmission are achieved in experiments by using the dual-mode DFB laser and two free-running lasers. Moreover, we conduct an experiment of dual-carrier modulation based on cascaded microring modulators, achieving 3 dB signal-to-noise ratio improvement and better signaling integrity for wireless communication. The proposed photonic integrated W-band transmitter will be a viable solution for a high-speed and low-power wireless communication system.
High-sensitivity and fast-response fiber optic temperature sensor using an anti-resonant reflecting optical waveguide mechanism
Authors: Li Zhibin , Wu Ziye , Li Zhuoqi , Ou Liangxun , Zhang Wenxiang , Lai Zhicong , Zhang Yu , Xie Mengyuan , Tang Jieyuan , Zhu Wenguo , Zheng Huadan , Zhong Yongchun , Deng Xiong , Zou Xihua , Chen Zhe , Yu Jianhui
Published: May 2023

Temperature sensing is essential for human health monitoring. High-sensitivity (>1  nm/°C) fiber sensors always require long interference paths and temperature-sensitive materials, leading to a long sensor and thus slow response (6–14 s). To date, it is still challenging for a fiber optic temperature sensor to have an ultrafast (∼ms) response simultaneously with high sensitivity. Here, a side-polished single-mode/hollow/single-mode fiber (SP-SHSF) structure is proposed to meet the challenge by using the length-independent sensitivity of an anti-resonant reflecting optical waveguide mechanism. With a polydimethylsiloxane filled sub-nanoliter volume cavity in the SP-SHSF, the SP-SHSF exhibits a high temperature sensitivity of 4.223 nm/°C with a compact length of 1.6 mm, allowing an ultrafast response (16 ms) and fast recovery time (176 ms). The figure of merit (FOM), defined as the absolute ratio of sensitivity to response time, is proposed to assess the comprehensive performance of the sensor. The FOM of the proposed sensor reaches up to 263.94  (nm/°C)/s, which is more than two to three orders of magnitude higher than those of other temperature fiber optic sensors reported previously. Additionally, a three-month cycle test shows that the sensor is highly robust, with excellent reversibility and accuracy, allowing it to be incorporated with a wearable face mask for detecting temperature changes during human breathing. The high FOM and high stability of the proposed sensing fiber structure provide an excellent opportunity to develop both ultrafast and highly sensitive fiber optic sensors for wearable respiratory monitoring and contactless in vitro detection.
Entomological surveillance on Aedes aegypti during covid 19 period in Cape Coast, Ghana: Risk of arboviral outbreaks, multiple insecticide resistance and distribution of F1534C, V410L and V1016I kdr mutations
Authors: Ayettey Joana , Ablorde Aikins , Amlalo Godwin K. , Mensah Ben A. , Kudom Andreas A.
Published: May 2023

Background

The study assessed the risk of transmission of Aedes-borne arboviruses in a community at Cape Coast during the Covid-19 restriction period in 2020 based on entomological indices. The spatial distribution of insecticide resistance was also assessed in Ae. aegypti population from Cape Coast.

Methods

Three larval indices were calculated from a household larval survey in 100 randomly selected houses. WHO susceptibility bioassay was performed on female adult Ae. aegypti that were reared from the larvae collected from household containers and other receptacles located outside houses against four insecticides. The mosquitoes were also screened for F1534C, V1016I, and V410L kdr mutations.

Results

The estimated larval indices in the study community were House index– 34%, Container index– 22.35%, and Breteau index– 2.02. The mosquito population was resistant to Deltamethrin (0.05%), DDT (4%), Fenitrothion (1%), and Bendiocarb (0.1%). A triple kdr mutation, F1534C, V410L and V1016I were detected in the mosquito population.

Conclusion

The study found the risk of an outbreak of Aedes-borne diseases lower in the covid-19 lockdown period than before the pandemic period. The low risk was related to frequent clean-up exercises in the community during the Covid-19 restriction period. Multiple insecticide resistance couple with three kdr mutations detected in the study population could affect the effectiveness of control measures, especially in emergency situations. The study supports sanitation improvement as a tool to control Ae. aegypti and could complement insecticide-based tools in controlling this vector.
Parental perspectives on emergency health service use during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom: A qualitative study
Authors: Breckons Matthew , Thorne Sophie , Walsh Rebecca , Bhopal Sunil , Owens Stephen , Rankin Judith
Published: May 2023

UK ‘Lockdown’ measures introduced in March 2020 aimed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Although seeking healthcare was still permitted within restrictions, paediatric emergency department attendances reduced dramatically and led to concern over risks caused by delayed presentation. Our aim was to gain insight into healthcare decisions faced by parents during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and to understand if use of urgent healthcare, self-care, and information needs differed during lockdown as well as how parents perceived risks of COVID-19. We undertook qualitative telephone interviews with a purposive sample of parents living in the North East of England recruited through online advertising. We used a semi-structured interview schedule to explore past and current healthcare use, perceptions of risk and the impact of the pandemic on healthcare decisions. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using Thematic Analysis. Three major themes were identified which concerned (i) how parents made sense of risks posed to, and by their children, (ii) understanding information regarding health services and (iii) attempting to make the right decision. These themes contribute to the understanding of the initial impact of COVID-19 and associated restrictions on parental decisions about urgent healthcare for children. These findings are important to consider when planning for potential future public health emergencies but also in the wider context of encouraging appropriate use of urgent healthcare.
Does diabetes mellitus comorbidity increase the risk of drug-induced liver injury during tuberculosis treatment?
Authors: D. Freire Ivanice , L. Fielding Katherine , A. J. Moore David
Published: May 2023

Background

The growing burden of diabetes worldwide is a threat to tuberculosis (TB) control. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) due to TB drugs is a significant concern and there is currently limited evidence on the effect of diabetes on TB DILI. This study sought to investigate the effect of diabetes as a risk factor for DILI and to further study any potential co-factors.

Methods

An unmatched case-control study. Cases were TB patients on 2RHZE/4RH presenting with DILI from 2013–2017 in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Controls were contemporaneous TB patients without DILI being treated in any one of the same five Porto Alegre TB clinics. The exposure variables were diabetes (main exposure variable), age, sex, alcohol misuse, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C (HCV) and B (HBV) viruses, concomitant hepatotoxic drugs, other liver diseases and TB site. The outcome variable was the occurrence of DILI.

Results

Odds of DILI were increased by: older age group 51–60, 61–70 and 71–93 years (adjusted OR 2.39, 95%CI 1.30–4,38; adjusted OR 4.37, 2.28–8,35; adjusted OR 12.91, 5.81–28,66, respectively), HIV positive status (adjusted OR 3.59, 95%CI 2.25–5.73), HCV positive status (adjusted OR 3.49, 95%CI 1.96–6.21) and having concurrent pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB (adjusted OR 3.16, 95%CI 1.93–5.19). Diabetes, gender, and other hepatotoxic drugs were not associated with DILI.

Conclusions

This study confirms the association between TB DILI and well-known risk factors but did not demonstrate increased odds of TB DILI in patients with diabetes.
Trends in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal achievement and changes in lipid-lowering therapy after incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: Danish cohort study
Authors: Ersbøll Annette Kjær , Kristensen Marie Skov , Nybo Mads , Hede Simone Møller , Mikkelsen Kristian Handberg , Gislason Gunnar , Lytken Larsen Mogens , Green Anders
Published: May 2023

Background

We aimed to investigate trends in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal achievement (LDL-C<1.8 mmol/L, equivalent to 70 mg/dL), initiation of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) and changes in LLT intensity in individuals with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) at very high risk of recurrent cardiovascular disease.

Methods

A cohort study design was used including individuals with incident ASCVD and LDL-C≥1.8 mmol/L in 2010–2015. Data were obtained from national, population-based registers (patient, prescription, income, and laboratory).

Results

We included 11,997 individuals. Acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke and stable angina pectoris accounted for 79.6% of the qualifying ASCVD events. At inclusion, 37.2% were in LLT. Mean LDL-C before or during ASCVD hospitalization was 3.1 mmol/L (120 mg/dL). LDL-C goal achievement increased within the first two years after inclusion from 40.5% to 50.6%. LLT initiation within the first 90 days increased from 48.6% to 56.0%. Initiation of intensive LLT increased from 9.6% to 32.8%. The largest change in LLT intensity was seen in the period 180 days before to 90 days after discharge with 2.2% in 2010 to 12.1% in 2015.

Conclusion

LDL-C goal achievement within the first 2 years after inclusion increased from 40.5% in 2010 to 50.6% in 2015. LLT initiation within the first year after inclusion increased, especially for intensive LLT, although only one third initiated intensive LLT in 2015. Despite trends show improvements in LDL-C goal achievement, 49.4% of individuals at very high risk of a CV event did not achieve the LDL-C goal within 2 years after ASCVD hospitalization.
Comparison of mortality and hospitalizations of older adults living in residential care facilities versus nursing homes or the community. A systematic review
Authors: Boucaud-Maitre Denis , Letenneur Luc , Dramé Moustapha , Taubé-Teguo Nadine , Dartigues Jean-François , Amieva Hélène , Tabué-Teguo Maturin
Published: May 2023

Residential care facility may provide a transition between living at home and a nursing home for dependent older people or an alternative to nursing homes. The objective of this review was to compare mortality and hospitalizations of older adults living in residential care facilities with those living in nursing homes or in the community. We searched Medline, Scopus and Web of Science from inception to December 2022. Fifteen cohort studies with 6 months to 10 years of follow-up were included. The unadjusted relative risk (RR) of mortality was superior in nursing homes than in residential care facilities in 6 of 7 studies (from 1.3 to 1.68). Conversely, the unadjusted relative risk of hospitalizations was higher in residential care facilities in 6 studies (from 1.3 to 3.37). Studies conducted on persons with dementia found mixed results, the only study adjusted for co-morbidities observing no difference on these two endpoints. Compared with home, unadjusted relative risks were higher in residential care facilities for mortality in 4 studies (from 1.34 à 10.1) and hospitalizations in 3 studies (from 1.12 to 1.62). Conversely, the only study that followed older adults initially living at home over a 10-year period found a reduced risk of heavy hospital use (RR = 0.68) for those who temporarily resided in a residential care facilities. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether residential care facilities might be an alternative to nursing homes for older people with similar clinical characteristics (co-morbidities and dementia). Nevertheless, given the high rate of hospitalizations observed in residential care facilities, the medical needs of residents should be better explored.
Hong Kong popular music education and its (dis)contents
Authors: Chu Yiu-Wai
Published: May 2023

This article presents some of the data gathered in a study on popular music education in Hong Kong, which was marginalized in local schools until recently. The study was conducted between April and December 2021 to explore possible policies that could promote Hong Kong popular music via education. It adopted a mixed-method design that consisted of a survey questionnaire, ten in-depth, semi-structured interviews with popular music education stakeholders and fifteen focus-group interviews with participants in various popular music education programmes. While the research findings are based on a small amount of data about a short period, from them I hope to offer a modest suggestion on how to draft policies that promote Hong Kong popular music, a genre that is generally agreed to be declining in the new millennium, through education in the future.
Análisis de la prescripción de marca y de la identificación de su naturaleza publicitaria por parte de rostros televisivos en Instagram
Authors: Castelló-Martínez Araceli , Segarra-Saavedra Jesús , Hidalgo-Marí Tatiana
Published: May 2023

Pese a su expansión, Internet sigue siendo un medio con escasa atención legisladora, en el que práctica profesional va por delante de la norma regulatoria. Las redes sociales, en general, e Instagram, en particular, se utilizan como un canal en el que rentabilizar el poder de prescripción de personas relevantes, aprovechando estos vacíos legales. El presente trabajo analiza 498 posts con presencia de marcas publicados en Instagram en noviembre y diciembre de 2021 por cien rostros televisivos en España con el fin de conocer si indican su naturaleza publicitaria. Los resultados demuestran que, a pesar de contar con un número elevado de seguidores, atendiendo a la tasa de engagement no todos los rostros televisivos pueden ser considerados influencers. El 86,7% de los posts con referencias a marcas no evidencian su naturaleza publicitaria, mientras que los que sí cumplen con la regulación deontológica lo hacen a través de fórmulas diversas. La prescripción publicitaria en Instagram por parte de los rostros televisivos se lleva a cabo de forma poco estructurada y sin homogeneidad, evidenciando la falta de profesionalización y la necesidad de estandarización en lo que a la identificación de la naturaleza publicitaria de los mensajes se refiere.
La representación fílmica del sexo en la vejez: un estudio de casos en el cine contemporáneo
Authors: Liberia Vayá Irene , Cobo Durán Sergio
Published: May 2023

¿El erotismo y el deseo sexual se extinguen con la edad? Si se toma como referencia el cine, la respuesta es un sí casi rotundo a juzgar por las escasas ocasiones en las que este medio se ha permitido, a lo largo de sus más de 120 años de historia, romper con un tabú cultural tan arraigado. Sin embargo, en los últimos tiempos llama la atención el estreno de un buen número de filmes que no solo incluyen como parte de sus tramas la sexualidad en la vejez, sino que la muestran de manera cruda, poniendo ante los ojos del público una realidad todavía muy incómoda pese a que el discurso institucional contempla el sexo entre las claves del envejecimiento activo que promueve. En esta dirección, el presente artículo presenta los resultados de un estudio exploratorio sobre la representación que el cine del siglo XXI hace de la sexualidad en la tercera edad. Para ello, se lleva a cabo un recorrido por distintas películas trazando una panorámica general y posteriormente se realiza un análisis en profundidad de dos de los filmes más transgresores respecto al objeto de estudio: En el séptimo cielo (Andreas Dresen, 2008) y El diablo entre las piernas (Arturo Ripstein, 2019).
Series de televisión y publicidad exterior: video bajo demanda en la ciudad contemporánea
Authors: Pedro Josep , Camáñez García Gemma
Published: May 2023

Este artículo explora las principales estrategias de publicidad utilizadas por los operadores de servicios de vídeo bajo demanda por suscripción en el mercado audiovisual español. Metodológicamente, se ha realizado un seguimiento de los estrenos y las campañas publicitarias de cinco operadores (Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ y Apple TV+) con el objetivo de identificar las principales obras promocionadas en territorio español. El artículo indaga en la relación entre las series de televisión y la publicidad exterior a través de dos casos de estudio: Sky Rojo (Netflix) y Falcon y el soldado de invierno (Disney+). A través del mapeo y el análisis, se descubren distintas acciones de publicidad exterior en tanto ejemplos paradigmáticos de la presencia publicitaria de las plataformas audiovisuales en las ciudades contemporáneas. Los resultados ilustran dos dimensiones clave de la publicidad exterior de los servicios de SVOD: una material, asociada al soporte, tamaño, presencia y visibilidad del texto publicitario; y una simbólica, más asociada al texto publicitario. Asimismo, se advierten conexiones entre lo offline y online, que apuntan hacia la relación entre publicidad exterior, redes sociales y medios, así como a la mercantilización y reconstrucción cotidiana de la ciudad y el espacio público.
La comunicación de las Ciencias Naturales en programas audiovisuales con destinatario infantil
Authors: Sabich Maria Agustina
Published: May 2023

El artículo propone un acercamiento a los modos de configuración genérica en programas de divulgación científica sobre Ciencias Naturales dirigidos al público infantil. El corpus de análisis se compone de dos series audiovisuales del canal argentino Pakapaka que definimos como «programa de Biología con una conductora como protagonista» (Animapaka) y «programa de Biología con títeres» (El mundo animal de Max Rodríguez). El marco teórico-metodológico de la investigación recupera aportes del análisis del discurso, de la semiótica-discursiva y de la lógica-semiótica (Steimberg, 2013; Maingueneau, 2009; Verón, 1998 y 2004) con el propósito de explorar las características de la comunicación de la ciencia en el lenguaje audiovisual y de caracterizar los diferentes posicionamientos que el enunciador-divulgador asume. A partir de la identificación de rasgos genéricos y escenográficos específicos, advertimos que el enunciador no solo persigue propósitos explicativos, sino también, pedagógicos, lúdicos, humorísticos y de preservación ambiental en la región latinoamericana.
Responsabilidad social corporativa y edadismo en el ámbito público-privado. Ibex-35 y Universidade de Vigo
Authors: Fernández Souto Ana Belén , Vázquez Gestal Montse , Fandiño Alonso Xaime
Published: May 2023

Los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) fueron aceptados por los sectores públicos y privados de los países de la ONU incorporándolos en sus políticas sociales y estrategias de RSC. En 2020, la OMS lanzaba el Decenio del Envejecimiento Saludable, llamando la atención sobre el edadismo, discriminación por edad, sobre el grupo de los adultos mayores, grupo inexistente en los ODS, que se centra en niños y/o adultos. Esta investigación observa si esa inclusión de los mayores en las políticas de RSC en las entidades analizadas es real o, simplemente, se incorporan datos o informes sin añadir estrategias de inclusión. Por un lado, las empresas del Ibex y, en contraposición, una universidad pública (Vigo). El análisis de contenido de las webs nos muestra una escasa presencia del edadismo en general, y de la discriminación de mayores en particular, por detrás de temáticas como medioambiente, mujer o infancia. Sin embargo, la Universidad de Vigo, con la creación de la Cátedra de Edadismo con entidades como Atendo y AFAGA, única en Europa, inicia una estrategia que le otorga visibilidad y un nuevo camino dentro de su Responsabilidad Social, donde no aparece dicha temática.
Improved parametrisation of a physically-based forest reflectance model for retrieval of boreal forest structural properties
Authors: Halme Eelis , Mõttus Matti
Published: May 2023

Physically-based reflectance models offer a robust and transferable method to assess biophysical characteristics of vegetation in remote sensing. Forests exhibit explicit structure at many scales, from shoots and branches to landscape patches, and hence present a specific challenge to vegetation reflectance modellers. To relate forest reflectance with its structure, the complexity must be parametrised leading to an increase in the number of reflectance model inputs. The parametrisations link reflectance simulations to measurable forest variables, but at the same time rely on abstractions (e.g. a geometric surface forming a tree crown) and physically-based simplifications that are difficult to quantify robustly. As high-quality data on basic forest structure (e.g. tree height and stand density) and optical properties (e.g. leaf and forest floor reflectance) are becoming increasingly available, we used the well-validated forest reflectance and transmittance model FRT to investigate the effect of the values of the “uncertain” input parameters on the accuracy of modelled forest reflectance. With the state-of-the-art structural and spectral forest information, and Sentinel-2 Multispectral Instrument imagery, we identified that the input parameters influencing the most the modelled reflectance, given that the basic forestry variables are set to their true values and leaf mass is determined from reliable allometric models, are the regularity of the tree distribution and the amount of woody elements. When these parameters were set to their new adjusted values, the model performance improved considerably, reaching in the near infrared spectral region (740–950 nm) nearly zero bias, a relative RMSE of 13% and a correlation coefficient of 0.81. In the visible part of the spectrum, the model performance was not as consistent indicating room for improvement.
What Pre-Service Teachers Want “Math” to Know: Examining Self-Identified Relationships and Critical Experiences With Mathematics
Authors: Bertolone-Smith Claudia , Puliatte Alison , Sommers Samantha , Unigarro Michelle , Vantassell Danielle
Published: May 2023

This study examines the self-reported critical experiences that undergraduate pre-service teachers (PSTs) choose to share when writing a letter directly to “Math” and creating a self-portrait of a math learning experience. The letters sought to initiate a personification of math and the self-portraits to further explore math learning experiences of the PSTs. The letters and portraits were examined to understand the types of math relationships and critical events PSTs reported and their impact on PST identity and agency as a future teacher. Portraits were analyzed by PST research partners. The relationship between the categories of critical events and mindset was explored.
IL-6-DEPENDENT STAT3 ACTIVATION AND INDUCTION OF PROINFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN PRIMARY SCLEROSING CHOLANGITIS
Authors: Dold Leona , Frank Leonie , Lutz Philipp , Kaczmarek Dominik J. , Krämer Benjamin , Nattermann Jacob , Weismüller Tobias J. , Branchi Vittorio , Toma Marieta , Gonzalez-Carmona Maria , Strassburg Christian P. , Spengler Ulrich , Langhans Bettina
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with periductal inflammation and fibrosis. Genetic studies suggest inflammatory cytokines and IL-6-dependent activation of transcription factor STAT3 as pivotal steps in PSC pathogenesis. However, details of inflammatory regulation remain unclear. Methods: We recruited 50 PSC-patients (36 with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), 14 without IBD), 12 patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), and 36 healthy controls to measure cytokines in serum, bile, and immune cell supernatant using bead-based immunoassays as well as flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry to analyze phosphorylation of STATs in immune cells. Finally, we analyzed cytokines and STAT3 phosphorylation of T cells in the presence of JAK1/2 inhibitors. Results: In PSC IL-6 specifically triggered phosphorylation of STAT3 in CD4+ T cells and lead to enhanced production of interferon (IFN)-gamma and interleukin (IL)-17A. Phospho-STAT3-positive CD4+ T cells correlated with systemic inflammation (CRP serum levels). Combination of immunohistology and flow cytometry indicated that phospho-STAT3-positive cells were enriched in the peribiliary liver stroma and represented CD4+ T cells with prominent production of IFN-gamma and IL-17A. JAK1/2 inhibitors blocked STAT3 phosphorylation and production of IFN-gamma and IL-6, whereas IL-17A was apparently resistant to this inhibition. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate systemic and local activation of the IL-6/STAT3-pathway in PSC. Resistance of IL-17A to STAT3-targeted inhibition points to a more complex immune dysregulation beyond STAT3 activation.
Revisiting Kenny G (Colloquy)
Authors: Brian F. Wright
Published: May 2023

Kenny G is the bestselling instrumentalist and bestselling saxophonist of all time. He is, in short, the most commercially successful artist in the history of jazz—a position that he holds despite the vehement objections of many within the jazz community. In this introductory essay, I provide an overview of the common criticisms levelled against Kenny G; I then deconstruct them and some of their underlying implications. As I argue, the popular backlash against him has much to teach us about the prevailing values of contemporary jazz discourse.
Kuznetsov’s Fano threefold conjecture via K3 categories and enhanced group actions
Authors: Bayer Arend , Perry Alexander
Published: May 2023

We settle the last open case of Kuznetsov’s conjecture on the derived categories of Fano threefolds.
Contrary to the original conjecture, we prove the Kuznetsov components of quartic double solids and Gushel–Mukai threefolds are never equivalent,
as recently shown independently by Zhang.
On the other hand, we prove the modified conjecture asserting their deformation equivalence.
Our proof of nonequivalence combines a categorical Enriques-K3
correspondence with the Hodge theory of categories.
Along the way, we obtain a categorical description of the periods of Gushel–Mukai varieties,
which we use to resolve a conjecture of Kuznetsov and the second author on the birational categorical Torelli problem,
as well as to give a simple proof of a theorem of Debarre and Kuznetsov on the fibers of the period map.
Our proof of deformation equivalence relies on results of independent interest about obstructions to enhancing group actions on categories.
Mechanistic role and potential of Ayurvedic herbs as anti-aging therapies
Authors: Raina Kirti , Kumari Ruchika , Thakur Palak , Sharma Rohit , Singh Randeep , Thakur Abhinay , Anand Vikas , Sharma Rohit , Chaudhary Ashun
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Medicinal plants and herbs are the most important part of the Ayurveda. The term Rasayana in Charaka Samhita confers long life, youthfulness, strong body, freedom from diseases and the plants mentioned in Rsayana possess antiaging property. Aging is the collective term used for the complex detrimental physiological changes that reduce the functional ability of the cell. Oxidative stress, telomeres shortening, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the main factors that regulate the aging process. Chronological aging is an irreversible process but the factors causing biological aging can be controlled. Ayurvedic herbs are better for the management of age-related problems. There are several natural bioactive agents present in plants that can delay the aging process in humans. They trigger actions like enhancing gene longevity and telomerase activity, ROS scavenging furthermore regeneration of tissues.

Content

The plants mentioned in the Rasayana of Ayurveda have antiaging potential and can be used to solve modern problems related to aging. Some Ayurvedic plants and their antiaging potential has explained in this review. The main causes of aging, medicinal plants and their use as potential antiaging mediator are covered in this study.

The process of aging is still an enigma. It is a complex, irretrievable, dynamic process that involves a number of factors and is subject to a number of environmental and genetic influences. Rasayana aspect has not been much investigated in clinical trials. Aging is considered to result from free radical damage. According to Charaka, Rasayana drugs open the partially or fully blocked channels. Many Rasayanas show free radical scavenging activity and has the potential to mitigate the effects of aging. It gives an overview of the significance of Ayurvedic medicinal plants as a source of inspiration and the use of these plants as remedies for antiaging.

Outlook

This study briefly outlooks the causes of aging and how medicinal plants can be used to reverse the aging process. In this study, we discussed the antiaging potential and mechanistic roles of Ayurvedic herbs. These herbs have the properties to slow down the natural process of aging and can successfully manage common age-related problems.
Non-weight modules over N = 1 Lie superalgebras of Block type
Authors: Xie Qiang , Sun Jiancai
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a class of non-weight modules over

N
=
1

{N=1}

Lie superalgebras of Block type (without center) is studied. These modules over Ramond algebras of Block type are free of rank 1 when restricted to the universal enveloping algebra of the Cartan subalgebra, while such modules are free of rank 2 over the Neveu–Schwarz algebras of Block type. We present the classification of these modules. Furthermore, the simplicity of these modules is determined.
Finite-dimensional algebras not arising as blocks of group algebras
Authors: Benson Dave , Sambale Benjamin
Published: May 2023

We develop new techniques to classify basic algebras of blocks of
finite groups over algebraically closed fields of prime
characteristic. We apply these techniques to simplify and extend previous
classifications by Linckelmann, Murphy and Sambale. In particular, we fully classify blocks with
16-dimensional basic algebra.
Positive solutions for a fourth-order p-Laplacian boundary value problem
Authors: Graef John R. , Yang Bo
Published: May 2023

The authors consider a fourth-order boundary value problem with a p-Laplacian appearing in both the equation and the boundary conditions. Upper and lower estimates for positive solutions to the problem are proved. Sufficient conditions for the existence and nonexistence of positive solutions to the problem are obtained and illustrated with an example.
Facile aqueous synthesis of ZnCuInS/ZnS–ZnS QDs with enhanced photoluminescence lifetime for selective detection of Cu(ii) ions
Authors: Mgedle Nande , Aladesuyi Olanrewaju A. , Lebepe Thabang Calvin , Ncapayi Vuyelwa , Oluwafemi Oluwatobi Samuel
Published: May 2023

Quaternary quantum dots (QDs) have recently gained more attention due to their low toxicity, tunable wavelength, reduced or no blueshift emission upon overcoating, improved photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield, and PL lifetime when compared to their binary (II–VI) and ternary (I–III–VI) counterparts. In this work, the aqueous synthesis of ZnCuInS/ZnS–ZnS multi-shell quaternary QDs as a nanosensor for the selective detection of Cu2+ ions was reported. The as-synthesized QDs were spherical, with a particle diameter of 3.66 ± 0.81 nm, and emitted in the first near-infrared window (725 nm) with an average decay PL lifetime of 43.69 ns. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the QDs were of the wurtzite structure, while the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed GSH capping through the sulphur–metal bond. Furthermore, the fluorometric study shows that the developed multi-shell QDs were selective towards Cu2+ ions compared to other metal ions via fluorescence quenching with a limit of detection of 1.4 µM, which is below the acceptable limit in drinking water.
Right-censored partially linear regression model with error in variables: application with carotid endarterectomy dataset
Authors: Aydın Dursun , Yılmaz Ersin , Chamidah Nur , Lestari Budi
Published: May 2023

This paper considers a partially linear regression model relating a right-censored response variable to predictors and an extra covariate with measured error. The main problem here is that censorship and measurement error problems need to be solved to estimate the model correctly. In this sense, we propose three modified semiparametric estimators obtained from local polynomial regression, kernel smoothing, and B-spline smoothing methods based on kernel deconvolution approach and synthetic data transformation. Here, kernel deconvolution technique is used to solve the measurement error problem in the model and synthetic data transformation is considered to add the effect of censorship to the estimation procedure, which is a very common method in the literature. The performances of the introduced estimators are compared in the detailed Monte-Carlo simulation study. In addition, Carotid endarterectomy data is used as real-world data example and results are presented. According to the results, it is seen that the deconvoluted local polynomial method gives more qualified estimates than other two methods.
Around the Świątkowski-type conditions
Authors: Filipczak Małgorzata , Terepeta Małgorzata
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we will focus on different types of Świątkowski conditions: Świątkowski, strong Świątkowski and weak Świątkowski conditions.
We present the main properties of the families of functions fulfilling such conditions.
Expression of (in)definiteness in Polish-German bilinguals: an example of contact-induced grammaticalization
Authors: Błaszczyk Izabela
Published: May 2023

This study offers new insights into the marking of (in)definiteness by Polish-German bilinguals. In contrast to monolinguals, some bilinguals speaking Polish use the demonstrativetenand the numeraljedenin contexts that are restricted to articles only. Both the distance that the speaker’s variety of Polish is from the norm to which they were exposed and pattern replication seem to play an important role in this context. For the analysis, a corpus was created from nine transcripts of interviews (2,253 word types and 10,311 word tokens) with Polish-German bilinguals recorded in 2006 and 2010 by using the AntConc toolkit. The findings indicate that bilingual speakers follow the pathways of grammaticalization from a demonstrative to a definite article and from a numeral to an indefinite article that have been established in cross-linguistic work: demonstratives and the numeral ‘one’ are common sources of grammaticalization. Therefore, I suggest that these structural changes can be explained as resulting from contact-induced grammaticalization.
Low-loss skimming waveguides with controllable mode leakage for on-chip saturable absorbers
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhong Lijing , Cui Yudong , Wang Yuying , Chen Daoyuan , Lau Kuen Yao , Liu Xiaofeng , Ma Zhijun , Barillaro Giuseppe , Chen Zhi , Qiu Jianrong
Published: May 2023

Emerging 3D photonic circuits would greatly benefit from the ability to integrate skimming waveguides with low loss and controllable inscription depth into photonic circuits. These waveguides allow for the interaction of guiding light directly with external modulation signals and enable programmable photonic circuits. Here, we report the fabrication of a novel photonic-lattice-like skimming waveguide (PLLSW) using femtosecond laser writing. Our method enables fine control of cross-sectional symmetry and writing depth of waveguides, achieving a minimum depth of 1 μm and a low insertion loss of 1 dB. Based on the PLLSW, we demonstrate on-chip light modulation by designing an evanescent-field-type saturable absorber through the coupling of a carbon nanotube film with the PLLSW, which exhibits saturation intensity from 20 to 200 MW/cm2 through the balanced twin-detector measurement. The strong nonlinear optical response of the PLLSW-based saturable absorber is further exploited to drive a Q-switched pulse laser at 1550 nm based on a fiber laser cavity. Our work demonstrates an effective method to integrate nonlinear optical materials into a glass chip for all-optical switching based on 3D waveguides, which holds great potential for the construction of large-scale programmable photonic circuits in the future.
Crystal structure of rac-1,8-bis(2-carbamoylethyl)-5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane, C22H46N6O2
Authors: Paul Pradip , Yasmin Sabina , Rabi Saswata , Rahman Ismail M. M. , Tiekink Edward R. T. , Roy Tapashi Ghosh
Published: May 2023

C22H46N6O2, triclinic,

P

1
‾

$P\overline{1}$

(no. 2), a = 8.5777(3) Å, b = 9.0205(4) Å, c = 9.9270(3) Å, α = 

67.899

(
3
)

°

$67.899(3){}^{\circ}$

, β = 

71.106

(
3
)

°

$71.106(3){}^{\circ}$

, γ = 

63.774

(
4
)

°

$63.774(4){}^{\circ}$

, V = 626.83(5) Å3, Z = 1,

R

g
t

${R}_{\mathit{g}\mathit{t}}$

(F) = 0.0400,

w

R

r
e
f

$w{R}_{\mathit{r}\mathit{e}\mathit{f}}$

(F
2) = 0.1162, T = 298(2) K.
Victims of Heritage Crimes: Aspects of Legal and Socio-Economic Justice
Authors: Olevska-Kairisa Irina , Kairiss Andris
Published: May 2023

The aim of this research is to show how different groups of stakeholders are suffering as a result of heritage crime. Research primarily addresses Latvian situation (with international comparisons) in relation to archaeological sites as the most vulnerable, however, the findings can be applicable to other heritage objects and broader territory as well. Most of these stakeholders are currently limited in, if not denied, access to justice and rights for an effective remedy within the traditional criminal law system. Insufficient level of social awareness of socio-economic benefits and rights stemming from integrity, development, and use of archaeological sites together with existing legal constraints results in poor self-recognition by individuals and groups as victims of heritage crime. While suffered parties abstain from protecting their rights, there is lack of information and proactive action from public authorities including law enforcement. Current research analyses the nature and scope of immediate harm resulted from the damage of archaeological sites and the extended consequences of the heritage crime for the different stakeholders’ groups. It points at the inefficiency of standard retributive approach and evaluates benefits of restorative justice elements in reaching justice for heritage crime victims. The results could be used for better recognition of benefits, and therefore rights, stemming from intact archaeological sites, amending legal regulation, providing access to justice for suffered individual and collective parties, allowing recognition of mass victimisation and facilitating prevention of heritage crime.
Interdisciplinary Sport Science in Individual Sports - A Framework for Implementation
Authors: Secomb Josh L.
Published: May 2023

The role of the sport scientist has become an important part of the high-performance support staff structure in recent years. Although this role is now widely accepted and valued in many sports and organizations, there is an element of employment instability with frequent replacement and staffing changes occurring in some environments. There are often differences in the responsibilities and expectations of sport scientists within and between different sports and organizations, specifically between team and individual sports. This can make it difficult to successfully transition between these and be effective in a new role. Therefore, the ability to adapt to different environments and work within the culture and expectations of each sport can be crucial to professional success and to reduce role instability after new employment. This article aims to provide a framework for implementing interdisciplinary sport science in individual sports and includes case study examples and personal reflections to illustrate the framework in real-world situations. It is hoped that this can provide an insight into the unique considerations of working in these sports for the sport scientist that may transition into these roles.
Effects of Basement Excavation and Raft Loading on Urban Tunnel in Sand: Model Testing and Analysis
Authors: Mahajan Sumeet , Sharma Krishan Gopal , Ayothiraman Ramanathan
Published: May 2023

This paper describes an experimental investigation carried out in the laboratory to examine the effects of basement raft excavation and loading on an existing tunnel in Yamuna sand. A small-scale testing facility was designed to simulate the process of basement excavation and installation of basement raft with retaining wall in close vicinity to an existing tunnel. A simplified tunnel excavation system was also designed to simulate tunnel-excavation–induced stresses. Dimensions of model tunnel, sheet pile wall, basement raft, and retaining wall were arrived at after applying the physical scaling laws on prototype dimension using a scale factor of 40. The dimensions of the tunnel and raft foundation were decided based on the stressed zone of soil mass from the edge of the foundation and tunnel periphery. Experiments were performed for different geometrical configurations of raft and tunnel. Results indicate that the circumferential and longitudinal strains at different locations of tunnel lining are significantly affected by various stages of construction/excavation and raft loading. This effect is seen more at crown level when the distance between tunnel and raft is short. The critical zone of influence is found in the region enclosed such that the raft loading is at a clear distance equal to diameter of the tunnel on either side of tunnel axis and strains in tunnel lining are measured up to three times the tunnel diameter on either side from the center line of raft loading. Results further indicate that the magnitude of circumferential strain induced at different cross sections of the lining is larger than the magnitude of longitudinal strain. A numerical analysis was conducted to simulate the experiments using PLAXIS 3D, which fairly predicted the measured phenomena. Thus, it is recommended that the site-specific quantification of the influence of new construction on tunnel lining is very much essential.