bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Language learning motivation, learner agency, and the medium of instruction
Authors: Hennebry‐Leung Mairin , Tseng Wen‐Ta , Gao Xuesong (Andy)
Published: May 2023

Recent conceptualizations of language learning motivation have highlighted its dynamic and contextual nature. Yet the role of the L2 learning context in shaping motivation remains under‐explored. This study adopts an agency perspective to examine emerging motivational orientations across diverse medium of instruction settings. The present study reports findings from a motivation survey of 3854 secondary‐school English learners across three types of instructional setting (English medium, Chinese medium and mixed medium) in Hong Kong. Hierarchical regression modeling points to a differential effect of motivation on language attainment across the three settings and the emergence of diverse internal structures of L2 motivation. Differences in the role played by agentic and nonagentic motivational orientations across the three settings are discussed and implications are outlined for theorizing language learning motivation and for language teaching practice.
Development of process safety knowledge for senior operations leadership
Authors: Mendes‐Silva Gustavo Peron , dos Santos Facchini Daniela Revez , Hosenen Federico Pablo
Published: May 2023

Clear and positive process safety leadership is at the core of managing high‐hazard businesses, and it is vital to ensure that risks are effectively managed. Cargill has designed a learning experience program for senior operations leadership in Latin America to provide leaders with an appropriate level of process safety knowledge that will support them taking better decisions, thereby reducing the likelihood of a process safety event at their manufacturing sites. The purpose of the program is to provide structural and focused learning of essential risk management practices and to allow the leaders time to discuss and learn about the risks and hazards on their sites. The program was designed to include kick‐off sessions, several learning experiences, and a final certification step. This program was deployed in Latin America in 2021 and, within 1 year, has certified 39 senior leaders for high‐hazard facilities. Several more certifications are expected to occur in the following months when all senior leaders would have gone through this learning program.
Monoterpene alcohols induced by sweet potato weevil larvae deter conspecific adults from feeding and oviposition
Authors: Liu Panjing , Zhang Xiaofang , Wang Rongyan , Chen Shulong , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Intraspecific competition is shared in the insect world, especially under the condition of limited food and space resources. To avoid intraspecific competition and increase offspring survival, insects have evolved various effective strategies. A widely‐accepted tactic is employing chemical cues, which are frequently utilized as indicators of conspecific colonization. The sweet potato weevil (SPW), Cylas formicarius, is a destructive pest of sweet potatoes. Its larvae bore into sweet potatoes and alter the emission of odors. The present study aimed to investigate whether volatiles associated with SPW larvae feeding influence the behavioral preference of conspecific adults.

RESULTS

Volatiles from SPW larvae‐infested sweet potatoes were collected by a head‐space method and analyzed using gas chromatography‐electroantennogram detector (GC‐EAD) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Five compounds eliciting EAD responses from the antennae of both male and female adult SPW were identified from sweet potatoes with the third‐instar larvae, including linalool, citronellol, nerol, geraniol, and ipomeamarone. Four monoterpene alcohols significantly repelled SPW adults from feeding and oviposition at higher doses in the behavioral preference bioassays. Among them, geraniol displayed the strongest repellent activities for SPW feeding and oviposition. These results suggested that SPW larvae could reduce colonization of adult SPWs by inducing monoterpene alcohols, thereby avoiding intraspecific competition.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that volatile monoterpene alcohols induced by SPW larvae are chemical cues of larvae occupation for SPW adults to change their behavioral preference. Unveiling factors that mediate avoidance of intraspecific competition could help develop repellents or oviposition deterrents for SPW control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
No‐Heating Deposition of Ferroelectric x%YO1.5–(100−x%)(Hf1−yZry)O2 Films
Authors: Mimura Takanori , Shimura Reijiro , Tateyama Akinori , Nakamura Yoshiko , Shiraishi Takahisa , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: May 2023

The no‐heating deposition of x%YO1.5–(100−x%)(Hf1−yZry)O2 (x = 0−0.09, y = 0, 0.25, 0.50, and 1) is achieved using a radio‐frequency magnetron sputtering method. To investigate the crystal structure and ferroelectric properties, epitaxial films are grown on (111)‐oriented indium tin oxide (ITO)/(111) Y‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates. The ferroelectric orthorhombic phase is obtained for the 5–7%YO1.5–95–93%HfO2 and 5%YO1.5–95% (Hf0.75Zr0.25)O2 films. The field‐induced phase transition from tetragonal to orthorhombic is confirmed for the 8%YO1.5–92%HfO2 and 5%YO1.5–95%(Hf0.50Zr0.50)O2 films. The remnant polarization (Pr) and coercive field (Ec) are 12–19 μC cm−2 and 2,000–2,500 kV cm−1, respectively. The piezoelectric response of 1 μm thick films is investigated for 6%YO1.5–94% HfO2, 7%YO1.5–93%HfO2, and 5%YO1.5–95%(Hf0.50Zr0.50)O2 films, which have piezoelectric coefficients (d33) of 1.0, 3.3, and 5.0 pm V−1, respectively. These results show no‐heating deposition of x%YO1.5–(100−x%)(Hf1−yZry)O2 films with ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties.
PD‐L1‐negative non‐small cell lung cancer harbouring a rare BRAF mutation with successful treatment of first‐line pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy: A case report and review the literature
Authors: Do Kien Hung , Nguyen Tai Van , Nguyen Thi Bich Phuong , Nguyen Gia Hoang , Nguyen Chu Van
Published: May 2023

BRAF mutations are uncommon in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), accounting for less than 5% of all NSCLC cases. The utilization of targeted therapies in non‐V600E BRAF mutant NSCLC is considered controversial, although non‐V600E genotype is reported in ~50% of all BRAF mutant patients. We document the case of a 63‐year‐old patient with NSCLC harbouring a rare BRAF E501Q mutation, who had prolonged response to immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in Vietnam. The patient was diagnosed with metastatic PD‐L1‐negative lung adenocarcinoma and received pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy as first‐line treatment. After completing 35 cycles of pembrolizumab and pemetrexed, his disease has remained stable during the treatment‐free follow‐up period, and he is alive 38 months after treatment initiation at the latest follow‐up. Immune‐based therapy is an appropriate option for lung adenocarcinoma with rare non‐V600E BRAF mutation. Further clinical studies are necessary to determine the effectiveness of using immune‐based therapy in this specific population.
Sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] genetic incompatibility effects in true hybrids seeds for new farmer cultivars development
Authors: Mahaman Mourtala Issa Zakari , Chukwu Samuel C.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Sweetpotato is a vegetatively propagated, highly heterozygous and outcrossing crop. Genetic improvement of sweetpotato is complicated because of the hexaploid nature of the crop. The objective of this study was to assess genetic compatibility between sweetpotato accessions collected from Niger and Nigeria to select the best parents for the next hybridisation block to develop new farmer varieties.

Materials and Methods

The experiment was conducted at field experiment of department of crop production and landscape management, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria. The crossing block was established using diallel mating design method three to cross 13 genotypes.

Results

Results revealed very highly significant difference (χ2 = 48.32; p < 0.001) for the successful cross rates. Complete incompatibility for both direct and reciprocal crosses was obtained from two crosses while, partial incompatibility was observed in 25 crosses (16.02%). Successful crosses rate varied from 14.82% to 43.58% with a grand mean of 28.04%. The mean of number of seeds per capsule between families ranged from 0.73% to 1.57% with a grand mean of 1.05. Germination rate varied from 22.92% to 75.90% with a grand mean of 45.91%.

Conclusion

Clones AYT/19/05, TIS‐81‐64 and Umu SPO1 had high compatibility and they can be used as parents for the next crossing block.
Speciation and microscale distribution of phosphorus compounds accumulated in continuously fertilized greenhouse soils
Authors: Yamaguchi Noriko , Hikono Atsuko , Suda Aomi , Hashimoto Yohey , Yada Saeko , Ooshima Masatoshi , Yamamoto Taku , Ando Kaori , Kasuya Masahiro
Published: May 2023

The overuse of phosphate fertilizer results in the accumulation of surplus phosphorus (P) compounds in soil, and this trend is particularly intense in greenhouse farming. We aimed to characterize P compounds in greenhouse soils by comparing their speciation in soil samples collected from greenhouses and an open field. Two soil types with different phosphate sorption abilities, namely, Ultisol and Andisol, were considered. Phosphorus compounds in the soil were characterized by bulk soil analysis via acid extraction; molecular‐scale analyses by solid‐state 31P nuclear magnetic resonance and P K‐edge X‐ray absorption near edge structure and spatially resolved analyses by electron probe microanalyzer and micro‐X‐ray absorption near edge structure. Spectroscopic results showed that a larger proportion of P compounds associated with inorganic P compounds associated with calcium  (Ca‐P) was present in the greenhouse soil than in the open‐field soil. Some P compounds in the greenhouse Andisol were Ca‐P, even though Andisol has a high phosphate sorption ability due to an abundance of aluminum‐bearing sorbents. Heterogeneously distributed spots of Calcium phosphate, most likely hydroxyapatite or tricalcium phosphate, were found at the microscale in the greenhouse Ultisol soil grain. In addition to the detection of poorly‐soluble Ca‐P, a larger proportion of Ca‐P was potentially plant available. Spatially resolved analyses showed that organic amendments containing Ca‐P were incorporated into the Andisol soil grains. Our study demonstrated that Ca‐P with different solubilities can serve as a source of phosphate even in soils of high phosphate sorption ability under greenhouse conditions.
Electromagnetic and Chemical Analysis and Performance Comparison of Inset‐fed Rectangular Microstrip Antennas
Authors: Avşar Aydın Emine , Biçer Mustafa Berkan , Mert Mehmet Erman , Doğru Mert Başak
Published: May 2023

A simple method for creating lightweight and inexpensive microstrip patch antennas using reduced graphene oxide or acetylene black added epoxy resin was developed. The biggest goal in the method is optimizing the appropriate chemicals and production processes for producing the materials with the designed properties. Five examples of an inset‐fed microstrip patch antenna operating at approximately 2.0–12.0 GHz were designed based on the antenna‘s basic analytical formula. Their models were created in a 3D electromagnetic simulation environment. After examining the performance results of the design, the appropriate design models were produced with both 3D printer technology and wet‐chemical methods, and the experimental results were compared with the simulation results. The produced reduced graphene oxide or acetylene black added samples′ structure was illuminated with scanning electron microscope images, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy analysis. The measured S11 characteristics of the antennas provide better performance as compared to the simulated results. The measured S11 parameters for the two and three frequency bands fell substantially below −10 dB. As a result of the dielectric constants of the materials and the fabrication of the radiation plane, horizontal shifts were detected in the measurement outcomes.
Imine Oxidation Catalyzed by Zinc Hydroxyapatite: Kinetic Studies
Authors: Vishwakarma Rakhi , Vinod C. P. , Rathod Virendra K. , Kantam Mannepalli Lakshmi
Published: May 2023

The synthesis of N,N‐diphenylformamide from N‐benzylideneaniline and urea hydrogen peroxide is investigated using a zinc hydroxyapatite (ZnHAP) catalyst. It was found that the catalyst resulted in the highest activity of 91 % conversion and 40 % selectivity at 130 °C in 2 h. A kinetic model was validated by Langmuir‐Hinshelwood‐Hougen‐Watson (LHHW) at different temperatures and the absence of mass transfer resistance was proved by the Weisz Prater criterion. Effect of different catalysts, catalyst loading, temperature, mole‐ratio, and speed of stirring was studied. The as‐synthesized catalyst is characterized by FTIR, BET nitrogen adsorption‐desorption, TEM, EDX, TPD‐NH3, XPS, ICP‐MS and XRD. ZnHAP catalyst was found to be stable up to three recycles with no loss in activity.
Array of Nanopore Sensors Detect Nanoscale Biomolecules by Nucleic Acid Analysis
Authors: Ma Jingchen , Ji Weiwei , Song Xin , Feng Silu
Published: May 2023

As a powerful technology, Array nanomaterials technology is widely used in the detection of biomolecules because the analytes of interest are detected and analyzed within a nanovolume. The solid‐state nanopore array has a vast diversity of platforms and applications, such as improving the detection sensitivity of single molecules, achieving the goals of target detection, elevating the performance of anti‐interference and realizing high‐throughput and real‐time measurement. It has made breakthrough progress in the qualitative and quantitative detection of various targets. However, no single review can cover the entire landscape of published work in the field. This article does not aim to cite all articles relating to solid‐state nanopore arrays, but rather aims to highlight recent, select developments that will hopefully benefit new and seasoned scientists alike. Initially, the structure fabrication methods used in solid‐state nanopore detection that apply transmission electron microscopes (TEMs), chemical etching, focused ion/electron beams (FIB/FEB), will be introduced. Then, the next section is devoted to highlighting various surface functionalization methods. Finally, this review focuses on arrayed nanopores, as nucleic acid sensing technologies have great potential applications in the detection and measurement of DNA, RNA, protein and other analytes (such as new agents, bacteria, viruses, nanoparticles and polysaccharides).
Lithium Foam for Deep Cycling Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Aoxuan , Zhang Kaixin , Zhang Linxue , Ma Qingtao , Zhou Shoubin , Jiang Qinhai , Hu Zhenglin , Luo Jiayan
Published: May 2023

Li metal anode has been recognized as the most promising anode for its high theoretical capacity and low reduction potential. But its large‐scale commercialization is hampered because of the infinite volume expansion, severe side reactions, and uncontrollable dendrite formation. Herein, the self‐supporting porous lithium foam anode is obtained by a melt foaming method. The adjustable interpenetrating pore structure and dense Li3N protective layer coating on the inner surface enable the lithium foam anode with great tolerance to electrode volume variation, parasitic reaction, and dendritic growth during cycling. Full cell using high areal capacity (4.0 mAh cm−2) LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1 (NCM811) cathode with the N/P ratio of 2 and E/C ratio of 3 g Ah−1 can stably operate for 200 times with 80% capacity retention. The corresponding pouch cell has <3% pressure fluctuation per cycle and almost zero pressure accumulation.
Synergistic Optimization of Energy Storage Density of PYN‐Based Antiferroelectric Ceramics by Composition Design and Microstructure Engineering
Authors: Chen Chukai , Qian Jin , Yang Jing , Li GuoHui , Lin Jinfeng , Shi Cheng , Ge Guanglong , Shen Bo , Zhai Jiwei
Published: May 2023

PbYb0.5Nb0.5O3 (PYN)‐based ceramics, featured by their ultra‐high phase‐switching field and low sintering temperature (950 °C), are of great potential in exploiting dielectric ceramics with high energy storage density and low preparation cost. However, due to insufficient breakdown strength (BDS), their complete polarization‐electric field (P‐E) loops are difficult to be obtained. Here, to fully reveal their potential in energy storage, synergistic optimization strategy of composition design with Ba2+ substitution and microstructure engineering via hot‐pressing (HP) are adopted in this work. With 2 mol% Ba2+ doping, a recoverable energy storage density (Wrec) of 10.10 J cm−3 and a discharge energy density (Wdis) of 8.51 J cm−3 can be obtained, supporting the superior current density (CD) of 1391.97 A cm−2 and the outstanding power density (PD) of 417.59 MW cm−2. In situ characterization methods are utilized here to reveal the unique movement of the B‐site ions of PYN‐based ceramics under electric field, which is the key factor of the ultra‐high phase‐switching field. It is also confirmed that microstructure engineering can refine the grain of ceramics and improve BDS. This work strongly demonstrates the potential of PYN‐based ceramics in energy storage field and plays a guiding role in the follow‐up research.
Temperature Field Analysis of Novel Die Bonding Stage for MEMS Thermopile
Authors: Li Yang , Lu Xiao‐ting , Chen Zai‐liang
Published: May 2023

Packaging and die bonding of conventional micro‐electro‐mechanical‐systems (MEMS) and semiconductor devices include separate dispensing, mounting and heating curing. A novel die bonder's work stage and temperature control method are proposed so that dispensing, mounting and heating curing can be completed at the same station. This paper introduces the working principle of the thermopile sensor and the requirements for temperature change during die bonding, analyses the main structure and working process of the novel die bonding stage, and uses commercial finite element analysis software to evaluate the temperature field of the novel die bonding stage and devices during the process of heating, holding and cooling to provide process guidance for accurate temperature control of die bonding. Dispensing, mounting and heating curing are integrated in the same station, avoiding the position error of devices when transferring, reducing the number of equipment and floor area, and effectively saving production costs. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Adaptive Sliding‐Mode Control for Permanent Magnet Spherical Actuator Based on Trajectory Re‐Planning
Authors: Guo Xiwen , Liu Ronghao , Wang Qunjing , Pan Kaida
Published: May 2023

This study proposes an adaptive sliding‐mode control strategy based on trajectory re‐planning for a permanent magnet spherical actuator (PMSA) to address the large overshoot caused by substantial initial error while maintaining tracking precision. The proposed re‐planning technique reconstructs a local trajectory without the preceding knowledge of the desired position in the future, which makes this technique more suitable for reconstructing trajectory given online. First, a re‐planning cool‐down term is added to maximize the capability of controller to improve the precision and speed of tracking. Moreover, a smooth switching technique is also applied to further improve the precision of trajectory tracking and stop redundant re‐planning when the system enters satisfactory state. Finally, the proposed trajectory re‐planning strategy is combined with a robust adaptive sliding‐mode controller (RASC), which effectively reduces friction, delay, and external uncertainty disturbances. The effectiveness of the proposed control design is verified by both simulation and experiment on PMSA, which can provide reference for the further engineering application of multi‐degree‐of‐freedom system. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Malignancy rates in Crohn's disease patients with perianal fistula: A German retrospective cohort study
Authors: Podmore Bélène , Beier Dominik , Burisch Johan , Genestin Elisabeth , Haeckl Dennis , Nagel Oliver , Qizilbash Nawab , Schwartz David A. , Vavricka Stephan R. , Bennett Dimitri , Dignass Axel
Published: May 2023

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk of colorectal and extra‐intestinal cancer. However, the overall cancer risk in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) with perianal fistulas (PF) (CPF) and those with CD without PF (non‐PF CD) is unclear.

Objective

To describe the prevalence and incidence of cancer in patients with CPF and non‐PF CD, and to estimate incidence rate ratio (IRR) of cancer between CPF and non‐PF CD groups.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the German InGef (Institute for Applied Health Research Berlin) research database. Patients with a CD record and PF from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2014 were identified and followed up from 1 January 2015 until the first occurrence of cancer, end of health insurance contributing data, death, or end of study period (31 December 2020). Prevalence of any type of cancer including patients with CD diagnosed with cancer in the selection period and incidence of cancer excluding patients with CD diagnosed with cancer in the selection period were calculated.

Results

In total, 10,208 patients with CD were identified. Of 824 patients with CPF (8.1%), 67 had had a malignancy (6‐year period crude malignancy prevalence 8.13% [95% confidence interval (CI) 6.36%–10.21%]), which was lower than patients with non‐PF CD (19.8% [95% CI 19%–20.6%]). Incidence (per 100,000 person‐years) in patients with CPF was 1184 (95% CI 879–1561) and in non‐PF CD was 2365 (95% CI 2219–2519). There was no significant difference in the adjusted IRR of cancer for the CPF group compared with the non‐PF CD group (0.83 [95% CI 0.62–1.10]; p = 0.219).

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in the incidence of any cancer in patients with CPF compared with non‐PF CD. However, patients with CPF had a higher numerical risk of cancer than the general German population.
Reference interval, longitudinal variability and reliability of activated clotting time in healthy dogs using a point‐of‐care analyser
Authors: Hellemans Arnaut , Devriendt Nausikaa , De Somer Filip , Marynissen Sofie , Daminet Sylvie , Paepe Dominique , Smets Pascale
Published: May 2023

Background

Activated clotting times (ACTs) are used to screen for coagulopathies and monitor heparin therapy.

Objectives

To determine a reference interval (RI) for ACT in dogs using a point‐of‐care analyser, to quantify intra‐subject within‐ and between‐day variability, to quantify analyser reliability and inter‐analyser agreement and to study the influence of a delay in measurement.

Methods

Forty‐two healthy dogs were included. Measurements were performed on fresh venous blood using the i‐STAT 1 analyser. The RI was determined using the Robust method. Intra‐subject within‐day variability and between‐day variability were quantified between baseline and 2 h (n = 8) or 48 h (n = 10) later. Analyser reliability and inter‐analyser agreement were studied by duplicate measurements (n = 8) on identical analysers. The influence of measurement delay was studied before and after a delay of one analytical run (n = 6).

Results

Mean, lower and upper reference limits for ACT were 92.9 ± 9.1, 74.4 and 111.2 s, respectively. Coefficients of variation of intra‐subject within‐ and between‐day variability were 8.1% and 10.4%, respectively, resulting in a significant between‐day measurement difference. Analyser reliability assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient and coefficient of variation were 0.87% and 3.3%, respectively. Significantly lower ACT values were observed after a measurement delay compared to direct analysis.

Conclusions

Our study provides an RI for ACT in healthy dogs using the i‐STAT 1 and suggests low intra‐subject within‐ and between‐day variability. Analyser reliability and inter‐analyser agreement were good; however, analysis delay and between‐day differences could significantly influence ACT results.
Conducting polymer‐based nanostructured materials for brain–machine interfaces
Authors: Ziai Yasamin , Zargarian Seyed Shahrooz , Rinoldi Chiara , Nakielski Paweł , Sola Antonella , Lanzi Massimiliano , Truong Yen Bach , Pierini Filippo
Published: May 2023

As scientists discovered that raw neurological signals could translate into bioelectric information, brain–machine interfaces (BMI) for experimental and clinical studies have experienced massive growth. Developing suitable materials for bioelectronic devices to be used for real‐time recording and data digitalizing has three important necessitates which should be covered. Biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, and having mechanical properties similar to soft brain tissue to decrease mechanical mismatch should be adopted for all materials. In this review, inorganic nanoparticles and intrinsically conducting polymers are discussed to impart electrical conductivity to systems, where soft materials such as hydrogels can offer reliable mechanical properties and a biocompatible substrate. Interpenetrating hydrogel networks offer more mechanical stability and provide a path for incorporating polymers with desired properties into one strong network. Promising fabrication methods, like electrospinning and additive manufacturing, allow scientists to customize designs for each application and reach the maximum potential for the system. In the near future, it is desired to fabricate biohybrid conducting polymer‐based interfaces loaded with cells, giving the opportunity for simultaneous stimulation and regeneration. Developing multi‐modal BMIs, Using artificial intelligence and machine learning to design advanced materials are among the future goals for this field.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease
Multidisciplinary Assessment of Nature-Based Strategies to Address Groundwater Overexploitation and Drought Risk in Medina Del Campo Groundwater Body
Authors: Mayor Beatriz , de la Hera-Portillo África , Llorente Miguel , Heredia Javier , Calatrava Javier , Martínez David , Manzano Marisol , del Mar García-Alcaraz María , Robles-Arenas Virginia , Borowiecka Gosia , Mediavilla Rosa , de la Orden José Antonio , López-Gutiérrez Julio , Aguilera-Alonso Héctor , Basco-Carrera Laura , Faneca Marta , Trambauer Patricia , Hermawan Tiaravani , Giordano Raffaele , Gómez Eulalia , Zorrilla-Miras Pedro , Rica Marta , Vay Laura , Rubio Félix , Marín-Lechado Carlos , Ruíz-Constán Ana , Bohoyo-Muñoz Fernando , Marcos Carlos , López Gunn Elena
Published: May 2023

Five decades of intensive groundwater exploitation have brought important economic, social and environmental changes in Medina del Campo Groundwater Body (MCGWB). Declining piezometric levels have worsened water quality, increased the costs of water supply and abstraction, and drained connected wetlands and rivers. This chapter presents the different methods and tools developed to assess the impacts and effectiveness for adaptation to droughts of the selected NAS strategies in biophysical, economic and social terms. It follows the methodologies presented in Chaps. 4, 5 and 6. It also summarizes the approaches for integrating all these assessments, as well as the main conclusions and lessons learnt. Important progress has been achieved on understanding and modelling the aquifer-system dynamics and functioning. First, geological and geophysical data analysis, debugging and integration have provided a basis for constructing a set of geological models of the MCGWB. Second, water balance components need to be updated through a deeper analysis of the recharge and groundwater abstractions (pumping). Third, a trend analysis of critical groundwater-related ecosystem services (GRES) and piezometric levels points at groundwater abstraction reductions as the most effective measure for a widespread recovery of the groundwater levels and storage. Fifth, the proposed managed artificial recharge would have limited effects on the recovery of the surface water bodies and no effect on the groundwater bodies. Sixth, the environmental reconstruction from a sedimentary record of the main wetland bed (Lagunas Reales) provides a reference knowledge base to understand the system response to human and climate changes. Finally, different barriers for design and implementation of NAS strategies have been identified and evaluated. Particularly, the lack of effective interaction mechanisms among the different actors involved/interested in the process could play a key role in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Can NBS Address the Challenges of an Urbanized Mediterranean Catchment? The Lez Case Study
Authors: Le Coent Philippe , Marchal Roxane , Hérivaux Cécile , Maréchal Jean-Christophe , Ladouche Bernard , Moncoulon David , Farina George , Forey Ingrid , Zi-Xiang Wao , Graveline Nina
Published: May 2023

The Lez catchment is characterized by a rapid urbanization, due to the attractiveness of the city of Montpellier, and is exposed to a typical Mediterranean weather with high risk of flash flood and other emerging issues, such as air pollution, heat island effects and biodiversity losses. We present the evaluation of two types of NBS to address these challenges, (i) urbanization strategies that have an impact on the conservation of agricultural and natural land and (ii) a network of green infrastructure (GI), with a focus on the economic analysis. Our results reveal that our most ambitious GI strategy can reduce up to a 20% of the mean annual damages due to annual flood damages. The largest share of the economic value of our NBS however lies in the co-benefits they generate. Overall, the two GI strategies present a positive cost-benefit analysis. We finally identify a pathway towards implementation in terms of financing and organizational challenges.
Enabling Effective Engagement, Investment and Implementation of Natural Assurance Systems for Water and Climate Security
Authors: Weinberg Josh , Thakar Kanika , Marchal Roxane , Nanu Florentina , Mayor Beatriz , López Gunn Elena , Piton Guillaume , Pengal Polona , Moncoulon David
Published: May 2023

This chapter investigates the enabling conditions and policy settings that are more conducive to the uptake of NAS and discusses how to effectively engage with the insurance sector as part of that process. It covers frequently cited issues that limit NBS implementation that also directly relate to NAS and offers insights on how to address them. It highlights opportunities and challenges to further support the mobilization of green infrastructure as part of NAS schemes by building on the relevant learnings and resources from the NAIAD project.
A Reader’s Guide to Natural Assurance Schemes
Authors: López Gunn Elena , Vay Laura , Marcos Carlos
Published: May 2023

This chapter provides a Reader’s Guide for the book based on the different elements to develop a natural assurance scheme, from its conceptual frame in this section (Sect. 2.1). The chapter is structured based on the different targeted audiences and the process of developing a natural assurance scheme (or NAS). The first section is addressed to Technical Experts and Researchers looking at the methodological assessment (physical, social and economic) needed to be undertaken to design a natural assurance scheme. These physical impacts of a NAS and the its value in monetary and non-monetary terms are outlined in Sect. 2.2 of the book. The next audience is focused on planners, business and financial experts integrating the natural assurance schemes into the planning framework that guides the logic and sequence to ensure the adoption and implementation of natural assurance schemes, the development of viable business models and financial arrangements. All these paves the way on how these NAS can be turned into NBS strategies to be fully developed and implemented as bankable projects (as outlined in Sect. 2.3 of the book). Finally practitioners and others can learn from the implementation of the methodology in 9 case studies across Europe at different scales addressing a range of water hazards (Sect. 2.4 of the book). The final section is particularly suitable for policy makers, insurers and others drawing on lessons learnt, key findings, and recommendations. and transferability to other locations (Sect. 2.5). Thus this Reader’s guide places special emphasis on the perspective and interest of the different readers, guiding them by summarising and outlining what sections and parts of the book might be of more interest and relevance.
Methodologies to Assess and Map the Biophysical Effectiveness of Nature Based Solutions
Authors: Mulligan Mark , Burke Sophia , Douglas Caitlin , van Soesbergen Arnout
Published: May 2023

Nature based solutions to mitigate flooding (Natural Flood Management, NFM) can help address persistent flooding on smaller rivers that are beyond the reach of governmental grey infrastructure flood protection schemes and can also contribute to ‘green-grey’ solutions for larger rivers, recognising the many co-benefits of such nature-based solutions for nature and society. It is, however, vital that NFM interventions are carefully designed and fully tested for their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness so as not to waste valuable flood mitigation resources and to ensure that these solutions do not themselves exacerbate risks or become expensive to scale or maintain. Only through accessible, low cost approaches can this be achieved since each NFM project is usually rather small scale, low budget and unique in design and context.

This chapter introduces newly developed methods for assessing the effectiveness of NFM with a focus on low-cost and open-access solutions. It highlights the opportunities and challenges of different monitoring and modelling methods, from physically-based spatial scenario models for assessing impacts of NFM interventions on flood risk to downstream assets, to using networks of low-cost environmental monitoring stations for direct measurement of effectiveness of specific interventions. Modelling is best suited to large scale strategic assessment of the optimal type, magnitude and locations of interventions, whereas assessment of the effectiveness of specific interventions is best achieved through a measurement approach or – where that is not possible – space-for-time substitution with comparable sites for which the intervention has already been applied and its effectiveness tested.
Designing Natural Assurance Schemes with Integrated Decision Support and Adaptive Planning
Authors: Basco-Carrera Laura , Van Cauwenbergh Nora , Gebremedhin Eskedar T. , Piton Guillaume , Tacnet Jean-Marc , Altamirano Mónica A. , Benítez Ávila Camilo A.
Published: May 2023

Defining and managing integrated urban, river basin and climate adaptation plans towards sustainable development, good ecological status as well as reduced water-related risk is challenging. Uncertainties regarding the future of cities and river basins require these plans to be adaptive. NBS are increasingly put forward as relevant measures to cope with climate related risks and challenges. However, the greening of climate adaptation planning with NBS in a context of risk, requires a well-structured decision-making process that enables the integration of NBS into national, regional and catchment planning processes and financing structures. To facilitate this integration, it is important to connect NBS with Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) frameworks, amongst others. Decision-making, however, is not a one-off action. To ensure the implementability of NBS, it is necessary to take key decisions in different steps of the planning, design and management phases. The use of tools and methods in these different steps can help informed decision-making, and as a result the formulation of evidence-based, reliable and well accepted solutions.
China und Deutschland vor globalen Herausforderungen
Authors: Lian Yu-ru
Published: May 2023

Aus der Perspektive der Struktur der internationalen Beziehungen lässt sich das Verhältnis zwischen China und Deutschland seit 1949 als eine „natürliche Partnerschaftsbeziehung“ charakterisieren, die sich auf die jeweils eigene Entwicklung der zwei Beziehungsakteure, ihre Stellung und Rolle in den internationalen Beziehungen und die Relation ihrer Werte und Interessenlage bezieht. Ihre Entwicklung hängt von drei intervenierenden Variablen ab: 1) dem chinesischen Primat der Innenpolitik und deren Perzeption durch Deutschland; 2) der deutschen Europapolitik und deren Akzeptanz durch die EU-Mitgliedstaaten und schließlich 3) der US-amerikanische Chinapolitik.
Neue Rahmenbedingungen für den internationalen Kulturaustausch
Authors: Grätz Ronald
Published: May 2023

Weltweite radikale Umwälzungen stellen den internationalen Kulturaustausch vor neue Herausforderungen. Der Beitrag beleuchtet die acht wichtigsten Elemente für einen gelingenden Kulturdialog, verstanden als Friedensarbeit auf der Basis von Verstehen, Verständigung, Respekt und Würde: Koproduktion, Plattformen, post-nationalstaatliches Denken, die Rolle der Zivilgesellschaft, Kulturarbeit in verschiedenen Situationen des Konflikts, Multilateralismus, Begegnungen und Beratung.
Zur Entwicklung der Forschungszusammenarbeit mit China
Authors: Schreiterer Ulrich
Published: May 2023

Der Beitrag untersucht die Entwicklung der Forschungszusammenarbeit zwischen Deutschland und China. Dabei stehen nicht Förderprogramme und quantitative Indikatoren im Zentrum, sondern bisher wenig untersuchte „Innenansichten“ solcher internationaler Kooperationen: Motive, persönliche Erfahrungen und Narrative der beteiligten Wissenschaftler:innen. Die hier vorgestellten Befunde basieren auf dem Projekt „Globalisierung der Forschung“, das 2011 bis 2015 vom Wissenschaftszentrum Berlin für Sozialforschung (WZB) gefördert wurde. Wie beschreiben und bewerten die jeweiligen Partner ihre Forschungszusammenarbeit? Haben sie ein gemeinsames Verständnis von Wissenschaft, ähnliche Vorstellungen von „guter Wissenschaft“ und guter wissenschaftlicher Praxis? Unterscheiden sich ihre Arbeitsstile, und falls ja, wie und wodurch? Was treibt ihre Zusammenarbeit an, und wie beschreiben sie deren Ergebnisse? Unsere „Sondierungen“ zeigten, dass die Kooperation von großem gegenseitigem Respekt geprägt war, aber zugleich auch von ganz unterschiedlichen Interessen, Fähigkeiten und Wünschen der Partner. Die hochgelobte Erfolgsgeschichte der Kooperation beruhte insoweit ironischerweise in nicht geringem Maße auf der Kapitalisierung von solchen Unterschieden.
Non-traditional Stable Isotope Geochemistry of Seep Deposits
Authors: Jin Meng , Feng Dong
Published: May 2023

Non-traditional stable isotope geochemistry is a useful tool for revealing element migration, transformation and circulation in geological processes. A series of biogeochemical processes result in special and variable sedimentary environments in seep systems. Many elements are impacted and involved in different biogeochemical processes in seep systems, especially the formation of authigenic minerals, making seep deposits archives for studying elemental and isotopic behaviors in natural environments. Iron (Fe) and molybdenum (Mo) are involved in the formation of pyrite, and magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) are closely related to the precipitation of authigenic carbonate. Research on the Fe, Mo, Mg and Ca isotopic compositions of different seep deposits from the South China Sea has been conducted in recent years. Preliminary studies have provided new insights into the mechanisms of isotopic fractionation and element cycling during early diagenesis. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the Fe, Mo, Mg and Ca isotope geochemistry of seep deposits from the South China Sea, targeting authigenic minerals, sediments and pore fluids.
Muon g − 2 and non-thermal leptogenesis in $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$ model
Authors: Eijima Shintaro , Ibe Masahiro , Murai Kai
Published: May 2023

Abstract

The gauged $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

symmetry is the simplest possibility to explain the observed muon g − 2, while being consistent with the neutrino oscillations through the seesaw mechanism. In this paper, we investigate if leptogenesis can work at the same time. At first glance, leptogenesis seems challenging because the right-handed neutrino masses are related to the $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

breaking scale of 10 – 100 GeV as required from the muon g − 2. Contrary to this expectation, we find that non-thermal leptogenesis with the right-handed neutrino masses of $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(107) GeV is possible. The successful scenario results in strict predictions on the neutrino oscillation parameters, which will be tested in future experiments.
Inflation and primordial gravitational waves in scale-invariant quadratic gravity with Higgs
Authors: Ghoshal Anish , Mukherjee Debangshu , Rinaldi Massimiliano
Published: May 2023

Abstract

In scale-invariant models of fundamental physics all mass scales are generated via spontaneous symmetry breaking. In this work, we study inflation in scale-invariant quadratic gravity, in which the Planck mass is generated classically by a scalar field, which evolves from an unstable fixed point to a stable one thus breaking scale-invariance. We investigate the dynamics by means of dynamical system standard techniques. By computing the spectral indices and comparing them with data, we put some constraints on the three dimensionless parameters of the theory. We show that certain regions of the parameter space will be within the range of future CMB missions like CMB-S4, LiteBIRD and STPol. The second half of the paper is dedicated to the analysis of inflationary first-order tensor perturbations and the calculation of the power spectrum of the gravitational waves. We comment on our results and compare them with the ones of mixed Starobinsky-Higgs inflation.
One loop mass renormalization of massive states using pure spinor formalism
Authors: Kashyap Sitender Pratap , Verma Mritunjay
Published: May 2023

Abstract

As a check of the first massive integrated vertex operator in the pure spinor formalism constructed in arXiv:1802.04486, we compute the one loop 2-point function of the stable non BPS massive states in SO(32) heterotic string theory. This allows us to compute the one loop renormalized mass of these states using the pure spinor formalism. Our results are in agreement with the corresponding results obtained by Sen using the RNS formalism. This provides an instance of the equivalence between the RNS and the pure spinor formalism for the massive states at loop level.
First look at the evaluation of three-loop non-planar Feynman diagrams for Higgs plus jet production
Authors: Henn Johannes M. , Lim Jungwon , Torres Bobadilla William J.
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We present new computations for Feynman integrals relevant to Higgs plus jet production at three loops, including first results for a non-planar class of integrals. The results are expressed in terms of generalised polylogarithms up to transcendental weight six. We also provide the full canonical differential equations, which allows us to make structural observations on the answer. In particular, we find a counterexample to previously conjectured adjacency relations, for a planar integral of the tennis-court type. Additionally, for a non-planar triple ladder diagram, we find two novel alphabet letters. This information may be useful for future bootstrap approaches.
Mastozytose bei Kindern
Authors: Wassmer Hanna , Hartmann Karin
Published: May 2023

Die Mastozytose bei Kindern ist eine seltene Erkrankung, die durch eine abnorme Vermehrung von Gewebemastzellen gekennzeichnet ist. Es zeigen sich typische Hautveränderungen, die als makulopapulöse kutane Mastozytose, diffuse kutane Mastozytose oder Mastozytom klassifiziert werden. Ein Teil der Patientinnen und Patienten weist zudem Mastzellmediatorsymptome wie Juckreiz, Flush und Anaphylaxie auf. Bei vielen Kindern ist die Erkrankung durch einen benignen, meist selbstlimitierenden Verlauf charakterisiert; nur selten findet sich eine systemische Mastozytose mit extrakutaner Beteiligung und chronischem oder progressivem Verlauf. Therapeutisch werden in erster Linie H1-Antihistaminika eingesetzt, je nach Schwere bedarfsorientiert oder als Dauertherapie. Kinder, Eltern und Betreuungspersonen sollten sorgfältig über das Krankheitsbild und mögliche Trigger-Faktoren der Mastzellmediatorfreisetzung aufgeklärt werden. Für Kinder mit ausgeprägten Hautveränderungen und schweren Symptomen ist die Verordnung eines Adrenalin-Autoinjektors zur Notfallbehandlung empfehlenswert.
Impartial games with decreasing Sprague–Grundy function and their hypergraph compound
Authors: Boros Endre , Gurvich Vladimir , Ho Nhan Bao , Makino Kazuhisa , Mursic Peter
Published: May 2023

The Sprague–Grundy (SG) theory reduces the disjunctive compound of impartial games to the classical game of NIM. We generalize this concept by introducing hypergraph compounds of impartial games. An impartial game is called SG-decreasing if its SG value is decreased by every move. Extending the SG theory, we reduce hypergraph compounds of SG-decreasing games to hypergraph compounds of single-pile NIM games. We show that this reduction works only if all games involved in the compound are SG-decreasing. A hypergraph is called SG-decreasing if the corresponding hypergraph compound of single-pile NIM games is an SG-decreasing game. We provide some necessary and some sufficient conditions for a hypergraph to be SG-decreasing. In particular, for hypergraphs with hyperedges of size at most 3 we obtain a necessary and sufficient condition verifiable in polynomial time.
Pre‐operative Cinacalcet Administration Reduces Immediate Post‐operative Hypocalcemia Following Total Parathyroidectomy in Severe Renal Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Fung Matrix Man‐Him , Tam Dick‐Sang , Lui David Tak‐Wai , Lang Brian Hung‐Hin
Published: May 2023

Background

In severe renal hyperparathyroidism (RHPT), whether administrating Cinacalcet before total parathyroidectomy can reduce post‐operative hypocalcemia remains unclear. We compared post‐operative calcium kinetics between those who took Cinacalcet before surgery (Group I) and those who did not (Group II).

Methods

Patients with severe RHPT (defined by PTH ≥ 100 pmol/L) who underwent total parathyroidectomy between 2012 and 2022 were analyzed. Standardized peri‐operative protocol of calcium and vitamin D supplementation was followed. Blood tests were performed twice daily in the immediate post‐operative period. Severe hypocalcemia was defined as serum albumin‐adjusted calcium < 2.00 mmol/L.

Results

Among 159 patients who underwent parathyroidectomy, 82 patients were eligible for analysis (Group I, n = 27; Group II, n = 55). Demographics and PTH levels before Cinacalcet administration were comparable (Group I: 169 ± 49 pmol/L vs Group II: 154 ± 45, p = 0.209). Group I had significantly lower pre‐operative PTH (77 ± 60 pmol/L vs 154 ± 45, p < 0.001), higher post‐operative calcium (p < 0.05), and lower rate of severe hypocalcemia (33.3% vs 60.0%, p = 0.023). Longer duration of Cinacalcet use correlated with higher post‐operative calcium levels (p < 0.05). Cinacalcet use for > 1 year resulted in fewer severe post‐operative hypocalcemia than non‐users (p = 0.022, OR 0.242, 95% CI 0.068–0.859). Higher pre‐operative ALP independently correlated with severe post‐operative hypocalcemia (OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.17–7.77, p = 0.022).

Conclusion

In severe RHPT, Cinacalcet led to significant drop in pre‐operative PTH, higher post‐operative calcium levels, and less frequent severe hypocalcemia. Longer duration of Cinacalcet use correlated with higher post‐operative calcium levels, and the use of Cinacalcet for > 1 year reduced severe post‐operative hypocalcemia.