bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parton distribution function for topological charge at one loop
Authors: Radyushkin Anatoly , Zhao Shuai
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We present results for the gg-part of the one-loop corrections to the recently introduced “topological charge” GPD $$ \overset{\sim }{F} $$

F
~

(x, q2). In particular, we give expression for its evolution kernel. To enforce strict compliance with the gauge invariance requirements, we have used on-shell states for external gluons, and have obtained identical results both in Feynman and light-cone gauges. No “zero mode” δ(x) terms were found for the twist-4 gluon GPD $$ \overset{\sim }{F} $$

F
~

(x, q2).
New physics in s → d semileptonic transitions: rare hyperon vs. kaon decays
Authors: Geng Li-Sheng , Camalich Jorge Martin , Shi Rui-Xiang
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We investigate the potential of rare hyperon decays to probe the short distance structure in the $$ s\to dv\overline{v} $$
s
→
dv

v
¯

and s → dℓ+ℓ− transitions. Hyperon decays into neutrinos $$ \left({B}_1\to {B}_2v\overline{v}\right) $$

B
1

→

B
2

v

v
¯

can be reliably predicted by using form factors determined in baryon chiral perturbation theory. Their decay rates are sensitive to different short-distance operators, as compared to their kaon counterparts, and the corresponding branching fractions are in the range of 10−14 ∼ 10−13 in the standard model. In the context of the low-energy effective theory, we find that the anticipated BESIII measurements of the $$ {B}_1\to {B}_2v\overline{v} $$

B
1

→

B
2

v

v
¯

decays would lead to constraints on new physics in the purely axial vector $$ \overline{d}{\gamma}_{\mu }{\gamma}_5s $$

d
¯

γ
μ

γ
5

s
current that are stronger than the present limits from their kaon siblings $$ K\to \pi \pi v\overline{v} $$
K
→
ππv

v
¯

. On the other hand, although hyperon decays into charged leptons are dominated by long-distance hadronic contributions, angular observable such as the leptonic forward-backward asymmetry is sensitive to the interference between long- and short-distance contributions. We discuss the sensitivity to new physics of a potential measurement of this observable in comparison with observables in the kaon decays KL→ μ+μ− and K+→ π+μ+μ−. We conclude that the current kaon bounds are a few orders of magnitude better than those that could be obtained from Σ+→ pμ+μ− except for two scenarios with new physics in the $$ \left(\overline{d}{\gamma}^{\mu }s\right)\left(\overline{\mathrm{\ell}}{\gamma}_{\mu }{\gamma}_5\mathrm{\ell}\right) $$

d
¯

γ
μ

s

ℓ
¯

γ
μ

γ
5

ℓ

and $$ \left(\overline{d}{\gamma}^{\mu }{\gamma}_5s\right)\left(\overline{\mathrm{\ell}}{\gamma}_{\mu}\mathrm{\ell}\right) $$

d
¯

γ
μ

γ
5

s

ℓ
¯

γ
μ

ℓ

currents. Finally, we point out that the loop effects from renormalization group evolution are important in this context, when relating the low-energy effective field theory to new physics models in the UV.
Enhancing the Large Hadron Collider sensitivity to charged and neutral broad resonances of new gauge sectors
Authors: Fiaschi J. , Giuli F. , Hautmann F. , Moretti S.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

In scenarios beyond the Standard Model (BSM) characterised by charged (W′) or neutral (Z′) massive gauge bosons with large width, resonant mass searches are not very effective, so that one has to exploit the tails of the mass distributions measured at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). In this case, the LHC sensitivity to new physics signals is influenced significantly by systematic uncertainties associated with the Parton Distribution Functions (PDF), particularly in the valence quark sector relevant for the multi-TeV mass region. As a BSM framework featuring such conditions, we consider the 4-Dimensional Composite Higgs Model (4DCHM), in which multiple W′ and Z′ broad resonances are present, with strongly correlated properties. By using the QCD tool xFitter, we study the implications on W′ and Z′ searches in Drell-Yan (DY) lepton decay channels that follow from the reduction of PDF uncertainties obtained through combining high-statistics precision measurements of DY lepton-charge and forward-backward asymmetries. We find that the sensitivity to the BSM states is greatly increased with respect to the case of base PDF sets, thereby enabling one to set more stringent limits on (or indeed discover) such new particles, both independently and in correlated searches.
Power corrections to the CP-violation parameter εK
Authors: Ciuchini M. , Franco E. , Lubicz V. , Martinelli G. , Silvestrini L. , Tarantino C.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We present the calculation of the short-distance power corrections to the CP-violation parameter εK coming from dimension-8 operators in the ∆S = 2 effective Hamiltonian. A first estimate of this contribution, obtained for large-Nc and in the chiral limit, was provided in ref. [1]. Here we evaluate and include the $$ \mathcal{O}\left({m}_K^2/{m}_c^2\right) $$
O

m
K
2

/

m
c
2

and $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\Lambda}_{\mathrm{QCD}}^2/{m}_c^2\right) $$
O

Λ
QCD
2

/

m
c
2

contributions that, a priori, could induce $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1) corrections to previous estimates, as mK is numerically of order ΛQCD. Our computation shows that there are several dimension-8 operators besides the one considered before. Their effect on εK, however, accidentally cancels out to a large extent, leaving the final correction at the level of 1%.
Gravitational collapse of quantum fields and Choptuik scaling
Authors: Berczi Benjamin , Saffin Paul M. , Zhou Shuang-Yong
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Gravitational collapse into a black hole has been extensively studied with classical sources. We develop a new formalism to simulate quantum fields forming a black hole. By choosing a convenient coherent state, this formalism taps into well-established techniques used for classical collapse and adds on the evolution of the mode functions of the quantum field operator. Divergences are regularized with the cosmological constant and Pauli-Villars fields. Using a massless spherically symmetric scalar field as an example, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the formalism by reproducing some classical results in gravitational collapse, and identifying the difference due to the quantum effects. We also find that Choptuik scaling in critical collapse survives in the semiclassical simulation, and furthermore the quantum deviation from the classical Choptuik scaling decreases when the system approaches the critical point.
Coronavirus disease 2019 and radiation oncology—survey on the impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic on health care professionals in radiation oncology
Authors: Vogel Marco M. E. , Kessel Carmen , Eitz Kerstin A. , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: February 2022

Background

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has changed the lives of most humans worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the SARS-CoV‑2 pandemic on health care professionals (HCPs) in radiation oncology facilities.

Methods

We distributed an online survey to HCPs in radiation oncology (physicians, medical physics experts, radiology assistants/radiation therapists, nurses, and administrative personnel). The survey was completed by 334 participants between May 23 and June 9, 2020.

Results

In 66.2% of the cases, HCPs reported a shortage of protective clothing. The protective measures were regarded as very reasonable by 47.4%, while 0.8% regarded them as not reasonable (rather reasonable: 44.0%; less reasonable 7.8%). 29.0% of the participants had children who needed care. The most frequently used care options were public emergency childcare (36.1%) and private childcare (e.g. relatives/friends). HCPs reported about additional work burden (fully agreed: 27.2%, rather agreed: 34.4%, less agreed: 28.2%, not agreed: 10.2%), and reduced work satisfaction (fully agreed: 11.7%, rather agreed: 29.6%, less agreed: 39.8%, not agreed: 18.9%). 12.9% and 29.0% of the participants were fully or rather mentally strained (less mentally strained: 44.0%, not mentally strained: 14.1%).

Conclusion

We must learn from this pandemic how to prepare for further outbreaks and similar conditions. This includes the vast availability of protective clothing and efficient tracing of infection chains among the HCPs, but also secured childcare programs and experienced mental health support are crucial. Further, work satisfaction and appreciation by employers is essential.
Influence of standoff distance and laser defocusing distance on direct laser metal deposition of a nickel-based superalloy
Authors: Mazzarisi Marco , Errico Vito , Angelastro Andrea , Campanelli Sabina Luisa
Published: February 2022

The direct laser metal deposition (DLMD) is an additive manufacturing technology, based on laser cladding, which focuses mainly on 3D manufacturing applications. DLMD allows the production of thin-walled components by overlaying single-track depositions. Several issues can affect the deposition process and compromise the flatness of the surface on which subsequent tracks will be deposited. This work focused on deposition troubles simulated by means of a designed variation of the standoff distance and the laser defocusing distance. The effects of these two important process parameters on the deposition process were investigated. The experimental tests were performed by depositing a nickel-based superalloy powder on AISI 304 stainless steel plates through a coaxial nozzle. The work was carried out using an ytterbium fiber laser source and a deposition head equipped with an advanced and innovative motorized optics system. This allows the decoupled variation of the laser defocusing distance and consequently the laser spot size on the substrate surface with respect to the standoff distance. Results showed an influence of standoff distance and laser defocusing distance on the geometrical characteristics of the clad, such as clad width, clad height, penetration depth, and dilution. An experimental setup consisting of a light coaxial to the powder flow and a laterally positioned camera was designed to investigate the spatial powder distribution. Moreover, an analytical model for the powder distribution and clad width were proposed and validated. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a general linear model was also employed to describe the results.
Engineering T-cells with chimeric antigen receptors to combat hematological cancers: an update on clinical trials
Authors: Ormhøj Maria , Abken Hinrich , Hadrup Sine R.
Published: February 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) redirected T-cells has shown efficacy in the treatment of B-cell leukemia/lymphoma, however, high numbers of relapses occur due to loss of targeted antigen or intrinsic failure of the CAR T-cells. In this situation modifications of the basic strategy are envisaged to reduce the risk of relapse, some of them are in early clinical exploration. These include simultaneous targeting of multiple antigens or combination of CAR T-cell therapy with other treatment modalities such as checkpoint inhibitors. The review evaluates and discusses these modified advanced therapies and pre-clinical approaches with respect to their potential to control leukemia and lymphoma in the long-term.
About the influence of environmental factors on the persistence of DNA — a long-term study
Authors: Poetsch Micaela , Markwerth Philipp , Konrad Helen , Bajanowski Thomas , Helmus Janine
Published: February 2022

DNA persistence and DNA transfer are important features in the assessment of a crime scene. The question how long DNA may persist at a certain location is similarly important as the one how the DNA has been transferred to this location. Depending on the source of the DNA as well as the conditions at the crime scene, the answer to this question is quite difficult. In this study, persistence of DNA from epithelial abrasions, blood cells, and saliva cells in indoor and outdoor scenarios has been investigated with regard to exposure time and exposure conditions including sunlight, temperature, and humidity in summer and winter scenarios. Overall, we generated 338 epithelial samples, 572 blood samples, and 572 saliva samples. A complete profile of the cell/DNA donor after exposure could be obtained in 47%, 65%, and 58% of epithelial abrasions, blood samples, and saliva samples, respectively. Regarding blood samples, there were no differences between supporting materials cloth and plastic; however, the percentage of complete profiles was higher for saliva samples on plastic and for epithelial samples on cloth. In indoor scenarios, complete profiles could be recovered from nearly all blood and saliva samples up to 9 months, whereas the amount of epithelial complete profiles already started to decline after 3 months. In outdoor scenarios, we observed a tipping point at an exposure time of 3 months. Blood and saliva samples collected after this period displayed complete profiles in less than 25% of samples. After 12 months, no outdoor sample showed a complete profile. The results of this study facilitate decisions on the relevance of recovered DNA from crime scenes.
The ratio of serum C-reactive protein level on postoperative day 3 to day 2 is a good marker to predict postoperative complications after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer
Authors: Luo Bin , Liao Qianchao , Zheng Jiabin , Hu Weixian , Yao Xueqing , Li Yong , Wang Junjiang
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Study reported that C-reactive protein (CRP) would peak at 48 h after the initiation of an acute inflammatory response. We proposed that the ratio of CRP level on postoperative day 3 to day 2 (POD3/2 CRP) can be used to early predict major postoperative complications (PCs) for patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy.

Methods

Patients were randomized into training cohort and validation cohort at a ratio of 7:3. PCs greater than grade II or more, according to Clavien-Dindo classification, were defined as major PCs. Three predictive models for major PCs based on CRP level were constructed, including POD3/2 CRP, the CRP level on POD3 (POD3 CRP), and the ratio of CRP level on POD3 to POD1 (POD3/1 CRP). The performances of three prediction models were assessed by AUC. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors of major PCs.

Results

344 patients were included. Major PCs were observed in 57 patients (16.6%). In the training cohort, POD3/2 CRP provided the best diagnostic accuracy with an AUC of 0.929 at an optimal cut-off value of 1.08, and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.902 and 0.880, respectively. In the validation cohort, the corresponding AUC was 0.917. BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and POD3/2 CRP > 1 were identified as risk factors for major PCs.

Conclusion

POD3/2 CRP is a reliable marker to predict major PCs after laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. If CRP is higher on POD3 than on POD2, major PCs are highly likely.
Transformational supervisor synthesis for evolving systems
Authors: Thuijsman Sander , Reniers Michel
Published: February 2022

Supervisory controller synthesis is a means to compute correct-by-construction controllers for discrete event systems. As these systems and their requirements evolve over time, an updated supervisor needs to be computed each time an adaptation takes place. We consider the case that a supervisor has been synthesized for a given model, after which this model is (slightly) adapted. We investigate how we can make use of the previous synthesis result, in order to more efficiently compute the supervisor for the adapted model. We introduce model deltas as a means to describe the difference between pairs of models. Using the model deltas, a notion of atomic adaptations is introduced. For these atomic adaptations, algorithms are provided to compute the supervisor for the adapted model in a transformational manner from the previous synthesis result, rather than performing a completely new synthesis. These atomic adaptations can be iterated over, to transformationally compute a supervisor for model deltas that contain a number of atomic adaptations. To improve efficiency, it is shown how atomic adaptations can be grouped together based on their required computations and be processed at the same time. A running example is used to support the explanations on the functioning of the algorithms. The efficiency of the method is evaluated by means of both an academic and an industrial use case.
Digitalisation in the Curricula of Vocational Schools: Text Mining as an Instrument of Curricula Analysis
Authors: Delcker Jan
Published: February 2022

The influence of digitalisation on society and the workplace require stakeholders in school development to incorporate digital competencies into school curricula. This study examines the occurrence of digital components in 831 curricula of the vocational schools in Baden-Württemberg, Germany with a text mining approach and the analysis of keywords in context. In total, 200 curricula containing digital features could be identified. The occurrence of digital terms differs notably between the different types of vocational school. The distinct characteristics of digital competencies are represented to a varying degree within the curricula, with a strong focus on the usage of tools for profession-specific tasks and the deployment of the internet as a gateway to information. Ongoing reforms of school curricula need to widen their view on digital competencies and integrate these competencies more broadly into the different types of vocational schools.
Global dynamic optimization with Hammerstein–Wiener models embedded
Authors: Kappatou Chrysoula D. , Bongartz Dominik , Najman Jaromił , Sass Susanne , Mitsos Alexander
Published: February 2022

Hammerstein–Wiener models constitute a significant class of block-structured dynamic models, as they approximate process nonlinearities on the basis of input–output data without requiring identification of a full nonlinear process model. Optimization problems with Hammerstein–Wiener models embedded are nonconvex, and thus local optimization methods may obtain suboptimal solutions. In this work, we develop a deterministic global optimization strategy that exploits the specific structure of Hammerstein–Wiener models to extend existing theory on global optimization of systems with linear dynamics. At first, we discuss alternative formulations of the dynamic optimization problem with Hammerstein–Wiener models embedded, demonstrating that careful selection of the optimization variables of the problem can offer significant numerical advantages to the solution approach. Then, we develop convex relaxations for the proposed optimization problem and discuss implementation aspects to obtain the global solution focusing on a control parametrization technique. Finally, we apply our optimization strategy to case studies comprising both offline and online dynamic optimization problems. The results confirm an improved computational performance of the proposed solution approach over alternative options not exploiting the linear dynamics for all considered examples. They also underline the tractability of deterministic global dynamic optimization when using few control intervals in online applications like nonlinear model predictive control.
Differentiating Optimists from Pessimists in the Prediction of Emotional Intelligence, Happiness, and Life Satisfaction: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Blasco-Belled Ana , Rogoza Radosław , Torrelles-Nadal Cristina , Alsinet Carles
Published: February 2022

What are the differences between optimists and pessimists? The aim of this study is to analyze the differences reported by optimists and pessimists in terms of three psychological variables: emotional intelligence (EI), happiness, and life satisfaction. To answer this question, we examined the extent to which a combination of different levels of optimism and pessimism can differently predict EI, happiness, and life satisfaction in two independent samples (891 adults, 494 adolescents). To do that, we introduced a person-centered approach, which offers several advantages in the study of optimism over the extended, predominant variable-centered approach. Then, using a latent profile analysis, we identified three groups of individuals with a similar optimism–pessimism configuration: optimists, ambivalents, and pessimists. The results obtained supported our hypothesis that optimists report higher EI, happiness, and life satisfaction levels than those reported by pessimists. Low levels of optimism, rather than high levels of pessimism, distinguish optimistic from non-optimistic people in the prediction of external outcomes. Our results suggest that optimism and pessimism can be viewed as separate yet correlated traits that can be grouped together to explain individual affective and cognitive differences, which encourage the refinement of strategies and interventions used in psychology practice.
Sub-femtojoule optical modulation based on hybrid plasmonic devices
Authors: Sherif S. M. , Swillam M. A.
Published: February 2022

Optical modulation is an essential process in the telecommunication technology. A sub-femtojoule optical modulation based on low loss hybrid plasmonic waveguide which integrates silicon, metal, and electro-optic material is demonstrated. Modulation is achieved through applying modulating voltage across the electro-optic layers. Firstly, a directional coupler modulator is designed and simulated, it showed a modulation depth of 26 dB, and energy consumption of 0.8 fJ/bit. Secondly, a Mach Zender interferometer circuit based modulator is designed and analyzed, with a modulation depth of 32 dB, and energy consumption of 0.8 fJ/bit.
Milk proteins as mastitis markers in dairy ruminants - a systematic review
Authors: Giagu Anna , Penati Martina , Traini Sara , Dore Simone , Addis Maria Filippa
Published: February 2022

Mastitis is one of the most impacting diseases in dairy farming, and its sensitive and specific detection is therefore of the greatest importance. The clinical evaluation of udder and mammary secretions is typically combined with the milk Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and often accompanied by its bacteriological culture to identify the causative microorganism. In a constant search for improvement, several non-enzymatic milk proteins, including milk amyloid A (M-SAA), haptoglobin (HP), cathelicidin (CATH), and lactoferrin (LF), have been investigated as alternative biomarkers of mastitis for their relationship with mammary gland inflammation, and immunoassay techniques have been developed for detection with varying degrees of success. To provide a general overview of their implementation in the different dairy species, we carried out a systematic review of the scientific literature using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. Our review question falls within the type “Diagnostic test accuracy questions” and aims at answering the diagnostic question: “Which are the diagnostic performances of mastitis protein biomarkers investigated by immunoassays in ruminant milk?”. Based on 13 keywords combined into 42 searches, 523 manuscripts were extracted from three scientific databases. Of these, 33 passed the duplicate removal, title, abstract, and full-text screening for conformity to the review question and document type: 78.8% investigated cows, 12.1% sheep, 9.1% goats, and 6.1% buffaloes (some included more than one dairy species). The most frequently mentioned protein was M-SAA (48.5%), followed by HP (27.3%), CATH (24.2%) and LF (21.2%). However, the large amount of heterogeneity among studies in terms of animal selection criteria (45.5%), index test (87.9%), and standard reference test (27.3%) resulted in a collection of data not amenable to meta-analysis, a common finding illustrating how important it is for case definitions and other criteria to be standardized between studies. Therefore, results are presented according to the SWiM (Synthesis Without Meta-analysis) guidelines. We summarize the main findings reported in the 33 selected articles for the different markers and report their results in form of comparative tables including sample selection criteria, marker values, and diagnostic performances, where available. Finally, we report the study limitations and bias assessment findings.
Decarbonization: examining the role of environmental innovation versus renewable energy use
Authors: Sahoo Bhagaban , Behera Deepak Kumar , Rahut Dil
Published: February 2022

Climate change resulting from a rapid increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is adversely affecting humanity. If the GHG emission continues to rise at the current pace, humanity will face severe consequences and reverse all the progress made. This paper, therefore, uses relevant data from 14 developing countries in Asia from 1990 to 2018 to examine the potential impact of environmental innovation on CO2 emissions by controlling globalization, urbanization, and economic growth. The number of environmental-related technology patents is used as a measure of environmental innovation. We employed a panel long-run regression model — FMOLS, PCSE, and FGLS to estimate the elasticity of CO2 emissions. For causal association among variables, we used Dumitrescu-Hurlin Granger causality tests. Our results show that renewable energy consumption and globalization have a significant impact in reducing CO2 emissions, while environmental technology innovations play a meager role in reducing emissions and only when economic growth support those type of investment. Furthermore, we found urbanization, oil consumption, and economic growth is detrimental to the environment, which is also evident in past studies. Therefore, countries should invest in renewable energy and environmental innovation aligned with the growth to reduce GHG emissions.
Prospects of organic acids as safe alternative to antibiotics in broiler chickens diet
Authors: Khan Rifat Ullah , Naz Shabana , Raziq Fazal , Qudratullah Qudratullah , Khan Nazir Ahmad , Laudadio Vito , Tufarelli Vincenzo , Ragni Marco
Published: February 2022

Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 weeks. To maintain optimum production, antibiotics have been commonly included in the diets as growth promoters. However, due to the increase in antimicrobial resistance, their uses have been banned worldwide. To keep the optimum level of production and health in broiler industry, the use of alternative growth promoters such as probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and organic acids has been proposed. Chemically, organic acids are weak acids and only partially dissociate. They are considered safe and have been used for preservation of food for centuries. Nowadays, organic acids have been reported for antibacterial, immune potentiating, and growth promoters in broilers. In this review, the effects of dietary inclusion of organic acids on growth, nutrient digestibility, intestinal integrity, immune system, and antibacterial activity in broilers are discussed.
Titanium Electrical Resistivity in Hydrogen and Deuterium
Authors: Pozio A. , Aurora A. , Della Seta L. , Santucci A. , Tosti S.
Published: February 2022

Electrical resistivity of pure titanium has been measured using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique under an atmosphere of hydrogen and deuterium at 100 kPa. In both hydrogen and deuterium, the electrical resistivity presents a linear trend with the temperature by exhibiting a different magnitude between the two isotopes. The obtained results are discussed by taking into account the amount of hydrogen and deuterium uploaded into the metal. XRD analysis and TG-DTA measurements have been conducted in the range 25-450 °C: the different behavior of titanium with the two gases has been explained by the different isotopes interactions with the sample surface where titanium oxides are supposed to be present. An evident metal embrittlement has been observed only in the presence of hydrogen.
A Scoping Review of Stress Measurements and Psychometry in Police Research
Authors: Rabbing Lillis , Bjørkelo Brita , Fostervold Knut Inge , Strømme Hilde , Lau Bjørn
Published: February 2022

Despite a growing body of research, there is no systematic body of evidence that establishes the rigour of existing measures of stress among police. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate (1) the diversity of stress measures used in police research and (2) the psychometric properties of such measures and the ways in which they are utilised. The systematic literature search discovered 16,216 records, which were reduced to 442 records of relevance. A total of 20 qualitative and 422 quantitative studies were found to be relevant, including a total of 129 unique measures, of which the majority showed satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s alpha ≥ 0.80). The identified measures pertain to four main categories: police-specific, perceived stress, psychological and physiological outcomes (including mood and affect changes), and assessment batteries. The measures have a general tendency to emphasise illness, and police-specific stressors pertain mostly to traditional police work. Measures should be chosen based on the aspect of the stress phenomenon that is to be investigated. This study provides detailed recommendations concerning how to use these measures to advance research concerning stress among police.
Design of a mindfulness-based intervention to support teachers’ emotional regulation behaviors
Authors: Kennedy Douglas P. , Haley Alex , Evans Roni
Published: February 2022

Addressing teachers’ ability to better navigate stress and emotional responses has the potential to improve classroom behaviors, student learning as well as teachers’ wellbeing. While there is growing interest in mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), there is need for greater attention to design aligned with relevant theories and transparent reporting to improve the rigor and translation of research. While utilized widely in health and behavior fields, behavior change theory has not been applied extensively in education or MBI research. This descriptive methodological paper articulates the intervention mapping and design process of an MBI to improve teachers’ stress and emotional regulation. To improve reporting, we use a post hoc application of a well-established behavioral model. Application of the Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) as part of an intervention mapping approach for an MBI to align teacher’s needs with intervention elements most likely to achieve desired behavioral outcomes. The paper illustrates an approach which includes defining the problem in behavioral terms, identification of target behaviors and behavioral change techniques, and selection of strategies and modes of intervention delivery. A systematic intervention mapping approach applying the BCW can yield a holistic MBI for the desired behavior change, enhanced emotion and stress regulation in teachers. This example of applying the BCW to the design of an MBI demonstrates how intervention designers and researchers can make decisions about which techniques and delivery components to include in their interventions, and how to systematically describe them. Such approaches have the potential to improve the reporting and methodological rigor of future MBI research and the successful application of interventions in practice.
Return to Play After Distal Biceps Tendon Repair
Authors: Carrazana-Suarez Luis F , Cooke Sean , Schmidt Christopher C.
Published: February 2022

Purpose of Review

Distal biceps tendon ruptures (DBTR) are uncommon injuries in 40- to 50-year-old men but occur at a younger age in the athlete population. The distal biceps tendon is an important supinator of the forearm and flexor of the elbow. A complete injury results in limiting function in the upper extremity. The current review evaluates the different options in management and the current literature on return to play in athletes.

Recent Findings

The distal biceps tendon inserts on the posterior aspect of the radial tuberosity as two independent heads. The long head footprint is more proximal and posterior giving it a better lever arm for supination. The short head footprint is more distal and anterior giving it a better lever arm for flexion. Surgical anatomic repair is highly recommended among the athlete population, to restore proper function of the upper extremity. There is scarce literature on return to play among athletes. The most recent studies on high-performance athletes are on National Football League (NFL) players. These studies showed that 84–94% of NFL players returned to play at least one game after distal biceps repair. Compared to matched control groups, there was no difference in the player’s performance after surgery.

Anatomic repair of DBTR results in excellent outcomes, high return to work, and high rate of return to play among athletes. When compared to matched control groups, NFL players have the performance score and play the same number of games after surgery.
Development of a 95 SNP panel to individually genotype mountain lions (Puma concolor) for microfluidic and other genotyping platforms
Authors: Buchalski Michael R. , Sacks Benjamin N. , Ahrens Kristen D. , Gustafson Kyle D. , Rudd Jaime L. , Ernest Holly B. , Dellinger Justin A.
Published: February 2022

The mountain lion (Puma concolor) is one of the few remaining large predators in California, USA with density estimation from fecal genotypes becoming an essential component of conservation and management. In highly urbanized southern California, mountain lions are fragmented into small, inbred populations making proper marker selection critical for individual identification. We developed a panel of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers that can be used for consistent, routine mountain lion monitoring by different laboratories. We used a subset of existing Illumina HiSeq data for 104 individuals from throughout California to design a single, highly heterozygous multiplex of 95 SNPs for the Fluidigm platform. This panel confidently differentiates individual mountain lions, identifies sex, and discriminates mountain lions from bobcats. The panel performed well on fecal DNA extracts and based on design, had sufficient resolution to differentiate individual genotypes in even the population with lowest genetic diversity in southern California.
Displacement analysis of point cloud removed ground collapse effect in SMW by CANUPO machine learning algorithm
Authors: Zhao Y. , Seo H. , Chen C.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a three-dimensional laser scanner was used to monitor the displacement of retaining structures for excavation, including a ring beam and a reinforced soil mixing wall (SMW) at an open excavation site. Eight scans of the retaining structures were taken before and after the excavation. Three-dimensional point clouds of the retaining structures produced with these scans are registered and analyzed to determine displacements of the retaining structures. Cloud to Mesh (C2M) method is used to identify displacement along the length of ring beam and depth of the SMW. The displacement obtained is then validated against displacement measured by the total station. The surface of the ring beam is flat so that the displacement of the ring beam can be estimated by the C2M. There was soil collapse and deposition on the surface of the SMW, which can affect the estimation of displacement in the cloud comparison. Therefore, a CANUPO machine-learning algorithm is applied to detect these areas and to remove the point clouds affected by soil collapse and deposition. The displacement is re-estimated based on the revised point clouds. The re-estimated displacement by the CANUPO method is more uniformly changed with the depth of the SMW than results without the CANUPO method, and the horizontal displacement due to excavation can be calculated.
Experimental Evidence for Coverage Preferences in Flood Insurance
Authors: Darlington J. Connor , Yiannakoulias Niko
Published: February 2022

We used a hypothetical choice experiment to estimate the effect of dwelling value and coverage limits on the probability of purchasing flood insurance while holding the probability of flooding and insurance price constant. The results indicate that demand for flood insurance is negatively associated with the amount of insurance coverage. For people assigned higher-valued dwellings, however, the opposite effect is observed. Since more coverage is generally preferred to less, all else being equal, differences in purchase probability dependent on dwelling value indicate an inconsistent approach to home protection. The higher probability of purchasing flood insurance from people in higher-valued dwellings may indicate an investment into the home as a financial asset, a strategy that is not observed to the same extent among people in lower-valued dwellings. This suggests that use of coverage limits may be differentially preferred based on dwelling value, such that low coverage insurance may have lower uptake for those in high-valued dwellings. As Canada evaluates a national flood insurance program, this research suggests that variable coverage maximums could be a way to increase accessibility and uptake of insurance. This research shows an inconsistent demand for flood insurance, dependent on dwelling value and independent of income.
How do rotating black holes form in higher dimensions?
Authors: Dadhich Naresh , Shaymatov Sanjar
Published: February 2022

Black holes are generally formed by gravitational collapse and accretion process. The necessary condition for the process to work is that overall force on collapsing/accreting matter element must be attractive. This is not so for the Myers–Perry metric describing a rotating black hole in higher dimensions. Also for accretion process to work, there should form accretion disk which requires existence of innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO). There can occur no bound orbits and consequently ISCOs in higher dimensions around a stationary black hole. Both these hurdles are overcome in pure Lovelock gravity. Rotating black holes in higher dimensions could thus form by collapse/accretion only in pure Lovelock gravity.
Classificazione e nomenclatura dei tumori neuroendocrini dell’ipofisi anteriore
Authors: Roncaroli Federico , Donofrio Carmine Antonio
Published: February 2022

Sommario

I tumori neuroendocrini dell’ipofisi anteriore rappresentano un gruppo eterogeneo di neoplasie con distinte caratteristiche cliniche, microscopiche e immunofenotipiche. La classificazione codificata dall’Organizzazione Mondiale della Sanità (OMS) è basata sull’espressione degli ormoni e dei fattori di trascrizione adenoipofisari analizzati sul tessuto patologico con metodiche di immunoistochimica. Tuttavia, recenti studi molecolari hanno portato alla luce i limiti dell’utilizzo di tali fattori di trascrizione per la classificazione di questi tumori. Negli ultimi anni abbiamo assistito a una controversia sulla nomenclatura dei tumori endocrini dell’adenoipofisi. Il club internazionale di patologia ipofisaria ha proposto di sostituire il termine “adenoma” con tumore neuroendocrino dell’ipofisi anteriore. L’Agenzia Internazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro ha successivamente suggerito un modello classificativo che include i tumori dell’ipofisi anteriore nello spettro delle neoplasie neuroendocrine sistemiche. Queste proposte hanno condotto a una posizione della Pituitary Society culminata in un forum internazionale e in una posizione che raccomanda di mantenere il termine adenoma. La presente rassegna riassume i criteri di classificazione istopatologica dei tumori neuroendocrini dell’ipofisi anteriore, discute criticamente la diagnosi di alcuni tipi e sottotipi di tumore e presenta le controversie sulla definizione di tumore aggressivo e sulla scelta della nomenclatura.
High-Performance Blue Quasi-2D Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes via Balanced Carrier Confinement and Transfer
Authors: Ren Zhenwei , Sun Jiayun , Yu Jiahao , Xiao Xiangtian , Wang Zhaojin , Zhang Ruijia , Wang Kai , Chen Rui , Chen Yu , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: February 2022

Extensive investigation of the passivating agents has been performed to suppress the perovskite defects. However, very few attentions have been paid to rationally design the passivating agents for the balance of the carrier confinement and transfer in quasi-2D perovskites, which is essential to achieve high-performance perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs). In this work, tributylphosphine oxide (TBPO) with moderate carbon chain length is demonstrated as a decent passivator for the quasi-2D perovskites by strengthening the carrier confinement for massive radiative recombination within the perovskites, and more importantly providing efficient carrier transfer in the quasi-2D perovskites. Benefiting from these interesting optoelectronic properties of TBPO-incorporated perovskites, we achieve high-efficient blue PeLEDs with an external quantum efficiency up to 11.5% and operational stability as long as 41.1 min without any shift of the electroluminescence spectra. Consequently, this work contributes an effective approach to promote the carrier confinement and transfer for high-performance and stable blue PeLEDs.
Accuracy Analysis of an Oblique Underwater Laser Lightsheet Triangulation System
Authors: Sardemann Hannes , Mulsow Christian , Maas Hans-Gerd
Published: February 2022

Laser lightsheet triangulation is a well-established optical measurement method, which is frequently used in industrial applications. With some adaptions, the technique can also be used underwater. Placing a green laser line projector and a camera at a fixed base inside a watertight housing enables flexible and accurate underwater measurements at low cost. To achieve near-orthogonal intersections on the object surface, camera and laser need to be placed oblique to the housing interface. Refraction influences have to be considered strictly in geometric modelling, with the light propagating through the air–glass and glass–water interfaces. The measurement and calibration methods presented in the paper utilize a concept of splitting the lightsheet into multiple sub-beams, which are traced, refracted, and intersected with image observations to receive 3D measurements. In a calibration step, the relative orientation between camera, laser and interfaces is determined. In a theoretical accuracy analysis, the error influences caused by the calibrated parameters is estimated with a standard deviation of 0.2 to 0.4 mm in a depth range of up to 15 cm. A prototype triangulation sensor is applied for practical measurements of two test objects with known geometry. The predicted accuracy is validated in stationary single scan measurements. The sensor is furthermore moved along the test objects, using a six-degrees-of-freedom method to determine its exterior orientation. The combination of multiple single scans results in dense point clouds with 0.3 mm standard deviation compared to a reference.
Preserving identity in capture–mark–recapture studies: increasing the accuracy of minimum number alive (MNA) estimates by incorporating inter-census trapping efficiency variation
Authors: Bright Ross Julius G. , Newman Chris , Buesching Christina D. , Macdonald David W.
Published: February 2022

Quantifying abundance is often key to understanding ecological and evolutionary processes in wild populations. Despite shortcomings in producing accurate abundance estimates, minimum number alive (MNA) remains a widely used tool, due to its intuitive computation, reliable performance as an abundance indicator, and linkage to individual life-histories. Here, we propose a novel “efficiency-modified” MNA (eMNA) metric, which aims to preserve MNA’s favourable aspects while remedying its flaws, by incorporating (a) growth correlates to back-age individuals first captured as adults, and (b) estimates of undetected persistence beyond last capture based on time-varying capture efficiency. We evaluate eMNA through samplings of a simulated baseline population parameterised using data from a long-term demographic study of European badgers (Meles meles), under three different levels of capture efficiency (low; intermediate/“real” based on badger field data; high). We differentiate between eMNA’s performance as an abundanceestimator—how well it approximates true abundance (accuracy)—and as an abundanceindicator—how tightly it correlates with population abundance and changes thereof (precision). eMNA abundance estimates were negatively biased at all capture efficiencies. However, this bias was negligible at intermediate-to-high capture efficiency, particularly once low-information terminal sampling years (the first year and final three years of simulated studies) were removed. Excluding these years, eMNA under-estimated abundance by only 3.5 badgers (1.5% of population) at intermediate (real) capture efficiencies, and performed as a precise abundance indicator, with half the standard deviation of Cormack–Jolly–Seber probabilistic estimates and proving robust to inter-sampling variation in capture efficiency. Using undetected persistence probabilities to parameterise survival regression, we recreated baseline age-based survival relationships, albeit with some negative bias for under-represented ages. We offer considerations on the continued limitations of using eMNA for abundance estimates, minimum study duration for reliability, the metric’s benefits when individual identity is required, and potential for further improvement.
The Sensitivity and Specificity of Split-Hand Index Using Muscle Sonography
Authors: Avidan Reuven , Fainmesser Yaara , Drory Vivian E. , Bril Vera , Abraham Alon
Published: February 2022

Background:

The split-hand index (SHI) (first dorsal interosseous (FDI) × abductor pollicis brevis (APB)/abductor digiti minimi muscle (ADM)) has been suggested as a useful measure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis, using electrophysiological and sonographic indices. In the present study, we aimed to explore the specificity of SHI derived by muscle ultrasound (MUS) for the diagnosis of ALS and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Methods:

Healthy controls (n= 65) were prospectively recruited at the Prosserman Family Neuromuscular clinic at Toronto General Hospital, from October to December 2018. In addition, 181 patients with ALS (n= 91), SMA (n= 33), polyneuropathy (n= 35), and myopathy (n= 22) were prospectively recruited at the neuromuscular clinic at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, from December 2018 to December 2020. All subjects underwent quantitative sonographic evaluation of muscle thickness, including the right APB, FDI, and ADM muscles. Area under curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were determined for differentiating between groups.

Results:

Although SHI showed good to excellent accuracy for differentiating each patient subgroup from controls (AUC 0.83–0.92), poorer diagnostic accuracy was shown for differentiating between different patient subgroups (AUC 0.54–0.74).

Conclusions:

Sonographic SHI is useful for differentiating patients from healthy controls, but might be not specific for motor neuron disease.