bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate‐startup partnering: Exploring attention dynamics and relational outcomes in asymmetric settings
Authors: Prashantham Shameen , Madhok Anoop
Published: September 2023

Research Summary

Startups that partner concurrently with a large corporation must compete for the latter's attention. We extend the attention‐based view from an intraorganizational to an interorganizational context, exploring how startups differ in the amount of attention they receive, their actions to attract and sustain attention, and the impact of attention dynamics on the relational outcome of the partnership. Our research uncovers two separate contests for attention involving corporate and divisional managers, highlighting the distributed nature of attention. Reflecting these, our findings reveal how startups' responsiveness to the respective cognitive schemas and corresponding stimuli of corporate and divisional managers is critical to understanding their distinct relational trajectories and disparate outcomes. Our focus on attention is complementary to the focus on trust that has hitherto dominated research on relational dynamics.

Managerial Summary

Startups partner with large corporations to access needed complementary resources. However, truly benefiting from such partnerships is challenging and requires them to attract as well as sustain the latter's attention. Our study reveals two contests for attention: one with corporate managers tasked with running a startup partnering initiative and the other with divisional managers in business units with whom actual commercial joint activity is forged. These two sets of managers have different priorities (schemas) that result in differences in the nature and amount of attention they pay to startups' actions (stimuli). Startups seeking corporate partnerships would do well to recognize this heterogeneity within large corporations and accordingly manage the attention–attraction process through suitable partner‐centric behaviors. On their part, large corporations need to be aware of and sensitive to the challenges such disparate schema of corporate and divisional managers pose for successful partnering outcomes as the relationship transitions from the early to later stages.
2D Dual Gate Field‐Effect Transistor Enabled Versatile Functions
Authors: Pang Yue , Zhou Yaoqiang , Tong Lei , Xu Jianbin
Published: September 2023

Advanced computing technologies such as distributed computing and the Internet of Things require highly integrated and multifunctional electronic devices. Beyond the Si technology, 2D‐materials‐based dual‐gate transistors are expected to meet these demands due to the ultra‐thin body and the dangling‐bond‐free surface. In this work, a molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) asymmetric‐dual‐gate field‐effect transistor (ADGFET) with an In2Se3top gate and a global bottom gate is designed. The independently controlled double gates enable the device to achieve an on/off ratio of 106with a low subthreshold swing of 94.3 mV dec−1while presenting a logic function. The coupling effect between the double gates allows the top gate to work as a charge‐trapping layer, realizing nonvolatile memory (105on/off ratio with retention time over 104s) and six‐level memory states. Additionally, ADGFET displays a tunable photodetection with the responsivity reaching the highest value of 857 A W−1, benefiting from the interface coupling between the double gates. Meanwhile, the photo‐memory property of ADGFET is also verified by using the varying exposure dosages‐dependent illumination. The multifunctional applications demonstrate that the ADGFET provides an alternative way to integrate logic, memory, and sensing into one device architecture.
Improved Fluorescence and Photoelectrical Properties of CsPbBr3 by Constructing Heterojunctions under Pressure
Authors: Xu Jie , Zhang Wenhu , Lv Pin , Li Fengjiao , Zhan Xinhui , Zhang Yongsheng , Liu Xiaobing
Published: September 2023

All‐inorganic cesium lead bromide quantum dots (CsPbBr3‐QD) compounds are potential candidates for optoelectronic devices, because of their excellent fluorescence luminescence and thermal stability. However, the many heterojunction interfaces and large band gap induce the low power conversion efficiency in the CsPbBr3‐QD heterojunction, limiting its practical applications. Hereby, in combination with the pressure regulation and TiO2/CsPbBr3‐QD heterojunction, the interface interaction within the heterojunction can be enhanced and the band gap can be narrowed. The pressure‐induced O─Ti─O bond softening and PbBr6 octahedron stiffening at the interface region significantly enhance the interface interactions that are favorable to the carrier transport. Compared with CsPbBr3‐QD, the atomic interaction between Pb and Br of TiO2/CsPbBr3‐QD heterojunction can be dramatically enhanced at high pressures, leading to increased band gap narrowing rate by two times, which is useful to widen the absorption spectrum. The fluorescence intensity increases by two times. Compression increases the photocurrent and maintains it after the pressure is released, which is due to the enhanced interface interaction induced by the high pressure. The findings provide new opportunities to adjust the physical properties of perovskite heterogeneous structures, and have important applications in the field of new‐generation photovoltaic devices.
The Strain Effects and Interfacial Defects of Large ZnSe/ZnS Core/Shell Nanocrystals
Authors: Long Zhiwei , Yang Gaoling , Shao Ruiwen , Chen Zhuo , Liu Yang , Liu Ronghui , Zhong Haizheng
Published: September 2023

The shell growth of large ZnSe/ZnS nanocrystals( is of great importance in the pursuit of pure‐blue emitters for display applications, however, suffers from the challenges of spectral blue‐shifts and reduced photoluminescence quantum yields. In this work, the ZnS shell growth on different‐sized ZnSe cores is investigated. By controlling the reactivity of Zn and S precursors, the ZnS shell growth can be tuned from defect‐related strain‐released to defect‐free strained mode, corresponding to the blue‐ and red‐shifts of resultant nanocrystals respectively. The shape of strain‐released ZnSe/ZnS nanocrystals can be kept nearly spherical during the shell growth, while the shape of strained nanocrystals evolutes from spherical into island‐like after the critical thickness. Furthermore, the strain between ZnSe core and ZnS shell can convert the band alignment from type‐I into type‐II core/shell structure, resulting in red‐shifts and improved quantum yield. By correlating the strain effects with interfacial defects, a strain‐released shell growth model is proposed to obtain large ZnSe/ZnS nanocrystals with isotropic shell morphology.
UV aging behavior and mechanism of cold‐mixed epoxy asphalt
Authors: Jiang Ziqi , Si Jingjing , Zhang Mingzhen , Wang Junyan , Shao Xiaoyang , Xing Miaomiao , Yu Xin
Published: September 2023

In environmental conditions, the ultraviolet (UV) light from sunshine will trigger epoxy asphalt (EA) paving materials aging and performance reduction. This work studied the influence of UV aging on the structure and mechanical performance of cold‐mixed epoxy asphalt (CEA) to evaluate its aging mechanism. The chemical structure of CEA was tested by Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and micromorphology was observed through fluorescence microscopy. The mechanical properties of CEA were studied by tensile tests and dynamic mechanical analysis. The results indicated that the toughness of CEA went down due to UV aging, and the elongation at break and glass transition temperature decreased by 35.5% and 6.0°C, respectively. Based on structural analysis, the UV aging mechanism of CEA was summarized as follows: (1) the curing network of epoxy resin was partially broken, and the asphalt particle aggregated; (2) the asphalt and epoxy resin in UV aging‐CEA were oxidized and formed carbonyl group and sulfonic group.

Highlights

Both asphalt and ER components in CEA underwent oxidation reactions and formed more CO, SO, and CO groups.

UV‐CEA showed a decrease in toughness due to destruction of the cured ER cross‐linked network and shortening of the asphalt molecular chain

E' and Tg of UV‐CEA was decreased, resulting from a decrease in ER crosslink density and an increase in molecular chain segment mobility of ER and asphalt.
Deciphering extreme rainfall and historical floods at Easkey on the west coast of Ireland
Authors: Kettle A. J. , Murphy C.
Published: September 2023

A written account of two flood events in 1844 and 1877 at Easkey in Co. Sligo on the west coast of Ireland is explored with several meteorological datasets and historical newspaper accounts. Gridded daily precipitation fields for Ireland for the late twentieth century are analysed to assess rainfall extremes and most probable month of the annual maximum. Historic rainfall datasets are analysed to corroborate the account of the floods. A lot of rainfall data have survived from the nineteenth century, but there is still an imperfect match between the written account and the old weather records.
Teacher Feedback Tools
Authors: Anson Chris M.
Published: September 2023

Before digital technology, students submitted handwritten or typed papers to their instructor, who responded with handwritten marginal and end comments, often with the infamous “red pen” (Dukes & Albenisi, 2013). After the introduction of word processing, students typically printed out and submitted hard copies of their final drafts, on which the instructor would handwrite comments. Today, most instructors (and all who teach online) ask students to send their (digitally produced) writing as email attachments or upload them to a learning management site or other cloud-based repository, allowing them, in turn, to provide digital feedback. Tools for such feedback have enabled instructors to comment with greater efficiency, clarity (avoiding the longstanding problem of students having to decipher scribbled remarks), and support. After a brief historical introduction, this chapter will describe four types of digital tools for teacher feedback: digital annotation tools, text expansion tools, voice-to-text tools, and tools for audio and audio-visual feedback.
Digital Student Peer Review Programs
Authors: Anson Chris M.
Published: September 2023

Student peer review of drafts in progress was a staple of writing instruction for decades before computers: students exchange and discussed typed or handwritten drafts in small groups of three or four. With the advent of digital connectivity, students could circulate electronic versions of their texts, then read and annotate drafts online. Simultaneously, digital peer review systems were developed that not only facilitated student response but included learning analytics as well as features such as repositories of comments to prompt student response, badges, sticky notes, and feedback mechanisms that evaluated the quality of the response; anonymous response also became possible (see Lu & Bol, 2007). After a brief historical introduction, this chapter focuses primarily on digital peer review systems and peer review systems built into LMSs such as Canvas. The chapter describes the nature and range of digital peer review systems and includes a summary of research on their effectiveness.
Writing Processes in the Digital Age: A Networked Interpretation
Authors: Cummings Lance
Published: September 2023

The concept of writing processes is clearly useful for the study of digital writing when we see writing as a complex, integrated set of actions that are organized in time and integrated into both digital and physical spaces. With the increased digitalization of writing, the processes of writing are becoming more integrated into a variety of tools, workspaces, and platforms, adding new layers to how we perform writing. This chapter explores how writers and researchers can conceptualize digital writing activities as new platforms and software continue to evolve, changing the way writers adapt processes to complex writing situations. The proliferation of digital spaces and tools also raises the visibility of writing processes formerly difficult to assess and evaluate due to their cognitive nature. This chapter will summarize primary approaches to writing processes and several heuristics currently used to understand and analyze writing as a dynamic and networked activity. These tools are useful for examining the new ways digital technologies make writing processes visible for both research and reflection. The chapter will also discuss some implications for theory, pedagogy, and research.
An Abstract CNF-to-d-DNNF Compiler Based on Chronological CDCL
Authors: Möhle Sibylle
Published: September 2023

We presentAbstract CNF2dDNNF, a calculus describing an approach for compiling a formula in conjunctive normal form (CNF) into deterministic negation normal form (d-DNNF). It combines component-based reasoning with a model enumeration approach based on conflict-driven clause learning (CDCL) with chronological backtracking. Its properties, such as soundness and termination, carry over to implementations which can be modeled by it. We provide a correctness proof and a detailed example. The main conceptual differences to currently available tools targeting d-DNNF compilation are discussed and future research directions presented. The aim of this work is to lay the theoretical foundation for a novel method for d-DNNF compilation. To the best of our knowledge, our approach is the first knowledge compilation method using CDCL with chronological backtracking.
Hammering Floating-Point Arithmetic
Authors: Torstensson Olle , Weber Tjark
Published: September 2023

Sledgehammer, a component of the interactive proof assistant Isabelle/HOL, aims to increase proof automation by automatically discharging proof goals with the help of external provers. Among these provers are a group of satisfiability modulo theories (SMT) solvers with support for the SMT-LIB input language. Despite existing formalizations of IEEE floating-point arithmetic in both Isabelle/HOL and SMT-LIB, Sledgehammer employs an abstract translation of floating-point types and constants, depriving the SMT solvers of the opportunity to make use of their dedicated decision procedures for floating-point arithmetic.

We show that, by extending Sledgehammer’s translation from the language of Isabelle/HOL into SMT-LIB with an interpretation of floating-point types and constants, floating-point reasoning in SMT solvers can be made available to Isabelle/HOL. Our main contribution is a description and implementation of such an extension. An evaluation of the extended translation shows a significant increase of Sledgehammer’s success rate on proof goals involving floating-point arithmetic.
Translating SUMO-K to Higher-Order Set Theory
Authors: Brown Chad E. , Pease Adam , Urban Josef
Published: September 2023

We describe a translation from a fragment of SUMO (SUMO-K) into higher-order set theory. The translation provides a formal semantics for portions of SUMO which are beyond first-order and which have previously only had an informal interpretation. It also for the first time embeds a large common-sense ontology into an interactive theorem proving system. We further extend our previous work in finding contradictions in SUMO from first-order constructs to include a portion of SUMO’s higher-order constructs. Finally, using the translation, we can create problems that can be proven using higher-order interactive and automated theorem provers. This is tested in several systems and used to form a corpus of higher-order common-sense reasoning problems.
Recurrence-Driven Summations in Automated Deduction
Authors: Nummelin Visa , Blanchette Jasmin , Dahmen Sander R.
Published: September 2023

Many problems in mathematics and computer science involve summations. We present a procedure that automatically proves equations involving finite summations, inspired by the theory of holonomic sequences. The procedure is designed to be interleaved with the activities of a higher-order automatic theorem prover. It performs an induction and automatically solves the induction step, leaving the base cases to the theorem prover.
Formal Verification of Bit-Vector Invertibility Conditions in Coq
Authors: Ekici Burak , Viswanathan Arjun , Zohar Yoni , Tinelli Cesare , Barrett Clark
Published: September 2023

We prove the correctness of invertibility conditions for the theory of fixed-width bit-vectors—used to solve quantified bit-vector formulas in the Satisfiability Modulo Theories (SMT) solver cvc5— in the Coq proof assistant. Previous work proved many of these in a completely automatic fashion for arbitrary bit-width; however, some were only proved for bit-widths up to 65, even though they are being used to solve formulas over larger bit-widths. In this paper we describe the process of proving a representative subset of these invertibility conditions in Coq. In particular, we describe the library for bit-vectors in Coq, our extensions to it, and proofs of the invertibility conditions.
KBO Constraint Solving Revisited
Authors: Briefs Yasmine , Leidinger Hendrik , Weidenbach Christoph
Published: September 2023

KBO constraint solving is very well-known to be an NP-complete problem. Motivated by the needs of the family of SCL calculi, we consider the particular case where all terms occurring in a constraint are bound by a (single) ground term. We show that this problem and variants of this problem remain NP-complete even if the form of atoms in the constraint is further restricted. In addition, for a non-strict, partial term ordering solely based on symbol counting constraint solving remains NP-complete. Nevertheless, we provide a new simple algorithm testing KBO constraint solvability that performs well on benchmark examples.
A Critical Pair Criterion for Level-Commutation of Conditional Term Rewriting Systems
Authors: Haga Ryota , Kagaya Yuki , Aoto Takahito
Published: September 2023

The rewrite relation of a conditional term rewriting system (CTRS) can be divided into a hierarchy of rewrite relations of term rewriting systems (TRSs) by the depth of the recursive use of rewrite relation in conditions; a CTRS is said to be level-confluent if each of these TRSs are confluent, and level-confluence implies confluence. We introduce level-commutation of CTRSs that extends the notion of level-confluence, in a way similar to extending confluence to commutation, and give a critical pair criterion for level-commutation of oriented CTRSs with extra variables (3-CTRSs). Our result generalizes a criterion for commutation of TRSs of (Toyama, 1987), and properly extends a criterion for level-confluence of orthogonal oriented 3-CTRSs (Suzuki et al., 1995). We also present criteria for level-confluence and commutation of join and semi-equational 3-CTRSs that may have overlaps.
Logic of Communication Interpretation: How to Not Get Lost in Translation
Authors: Cignarale Giorgio , Kuznets Roman , Rincon Galeana Hugo , Schmid Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Byzantine fault-tolerant distributed systems are designed to provide resiliency despite arbitrary faults, i.e., even in the presence of agents who do not follow the common protocol and/or despite compromised communication. It is, therefore, common to focus on the perspective of correct agents, to the point that the epistemic state of byzantine agents is completely ignored. Since this view relies on the assumption that faulty agents may behave arbitrarily adversarially, it is overly conservative in many cases. In blockchain settings, for example, dishonest players are usually not malicious, but rather selfish, and thus just follow some “hidden” protocol that is different from the protocol of the honest players. Similarly, in high-availability large-scale distributed systems, software updates cannot be globally instantaneous, but are rather performed node-by-node. Consequently, updated and non-updated nodes may simultaneously be involved in a protocol for solving a distributed task like consensus or transaction commit. Clearly, the usual assumption of common knowledge of the protocol is inappropriate in such a setting. On the other hand, joint protocol execution and, sometimes, even basic communication becomes problematic without this assumption: How are agents supposed to interpret each other’s messages without knowing their mutual communication protocols? We propose a novel epistemic modality creed for epistemic reasoning in heterogeneous distributed systems with agents that are uncertain of the actual communication protocol used by their peers. We show that the resulting logic is quite closely related to modal logic $$\textsf{S5}$$, the standard logic of epistemic reasoning in distributed systems. We demonstrate the utility of our approach by several examples
.
Symbolic Model Construction for Saturated Constrained Horn Clauses
Authors: Bromberger Martin , Leutgeb Lorenz , Weidenbach Christoph
Published: September 2023

Clause sets saturated by hierarchic ordered resolution do not offer a model representation that can be effectively queried, in general. They only offer the guarantee of the existence of a model. We present an effective symbolic model construction for saturated constrained Horn clauses. Constraints are in linear arithmetic, the first-order part is restricted to a function-free language. The model is constructed in finite time, and non-ground clauses can be effectively evaluated with respect to the model. Furthermore, we prove that our model construction produces the least model.
Combining Finite Combination Properties: Finite Models and Busy Beavers
Authors: Toledo Guilherme V. , Zohar Yoni , Barrett Clark
Published: September 2023

This work is a part of an ongoing effort to understand the relationships between properties used in theory combination. We here focus on including two properties that are related to shiny theories: the finite model property and stable finiteness. For any combination of properties, we consider the question of whether there exists a theory that exhibits it. When there is, we provide an example with the simplest possible signature. One particular class of interest includes theories with the finite model property that are not finitely witnessable. To construct such theories, we utilize the Busy Beaver function.
Effect of simultaneous integrated boost concepts on photoneutron and distant out-of-field doses in VMAT for prostate cancer
Authors: Gauter-Fleckenstein Benjamin , Schönig Sebastian , Mertens Lena , Oppitz Hans , Siebenlist Kerstin , Ehmann Michael , Fleckenstein Jens
Published: September 2023

Background

A simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) may result in increased out-of-field (DOOF) and photoneutron (HPN) doses in volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate cancer (PCA). This work therefore aimed to compare DOOF and HPN in flattened (FLAT) and flattening filter-free (FFF) 6‑MV and 10-MV VMAT treatment plans with and without SIB.

Methods

Eight groups of 30 VMAT plans for PCA with 6 MV or 10 MV, with or without FF and with uniform (2 Gy) or SIB target dose (2.5/3.0 Gy) prescriptions (CONV, SIB), were generated. All 240 plans were delivered on a slab-phantom and compared with respect to measured DOOF and HPN in 61.8 cm distance from the isocenter. The 6‑ and 10-MV flattened VMAT plans with conventional fractionation (6- and 10-MV FLAT CONV) served as standard reference groups. Doses were analyzed as a function of delivered monitor units (MU) and weighted equivalent square field size Aeq. Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the presented quantities were determined.

Results

The SIB plans resulted in decreased HPN over an entire prostate RT treatment course (10-MV SIB vs. CONV −38.2%). Omission of the flattening filter yielded less HPN (10-MV CONV −17.2%; 10-MV SIB −22.5%). The SIB decreased DOOF likewise by 39% for all given scenarios, while the FFF mode reduced DOOF on average by 60%. A strong Pearson correlation was found between MU and HPN (r > 0.9) as well as DOOF (0.7 < r < 0.9).

Conclusion

For a complete treatment, SIB reduces both photoneutron and OOF doses to almost the same extent as FFF deliveries. It is recommended to apply moderately hypofractionated 6‑MV SIB FFF-VMAT when considering photoneutron or OOF doses.
Neodymium isotope variations in the Flatreef on Macalacaskop, northern limb, Bushveld Complex
Authors: Keet J. J. , Roelofse F. , Gauert C. D. K. , Iaccheri L. M. , Grobler D. F. , Ueckermann H.
Published: September 2023

The origin of the recently discovered Flatreef remains debated due to the pronounced interaction of the magmatic rocks with sedimentary floor rocks, resulting in a complex intrusive stratigraphy. In this study, we report new Nd isotopic compositions of Flatreef lithologies intersected by borehole UMT-393 on the farm Macalacaskop in order to improve our understanding of the magmatic history of the deposit and to further test the putative correlation between the Flatreef/Platreef and the Upper Critical Zone of the remainder of the Bushveld Complex. The initial epsilon Nd (εNdi) values for the Flatreef range between −5.2 and −7.6, overlapping with εNdi values of the Upper Critical Zone from the eastern (ranging between − 4.8 and − 8.5) and the Upper Critical Zone and Main Zone from the western limb (−6.3 and −7.6, and −6.3 and −7.4 respectively) of the Bushveld Complex. The Flatreef εNdi values also overlap with those of the Platreef; however, due to the varying footwall lithologies of the Platreef along strike, Platreef rocks display a wider variation in isotopic composition. Our findings support the correlation of the Flatreef with the Upper Critical Zone — Main Zone transition interval in the remainder of the Bushveld Complex, which includes the Merensky and Bastard reefs. Due to significant overlap between the εNdi values of the Flatreef and local potential contaminants occurring at the base of the Northern Limb, we propose that the Sr–Nd isotopic composition of the magmas that gave rise to the Flatreef are most likely attributable to the interaction of mantle-derived magma with upper and lower crustal rocks of the Kaapvaal Craton within a sub-Bushveld staging chamber, with possible syn- to post-emplacement modification as a result of interaction with dolomitic footwall rocks.
3D Mirror Symmetry for Instanton Moduli Spaces
Authors: Koroteev Peter , Zeitlin Anton M.
Published: September 2023

We prove that the Hilbert scheme of k points on $${\mathbb {C}}^2$$

C

2

($$\hbox {Hilb}^k[{\mathbb {C}}^2]$$

Hilb
k

[

C

2

]

) is self-dual under three-dimensional mirror symmetry using methods of geometry and integrability. Namely, we demonstrate that the corresponding quantum equivariant K-theory is invariant upon interchanging its Kähler and equivariant parameters as well as inverting the weight of the $${\mathbb {C}}^\times _\hbar $$

C

ħ
×

-action. First, we find a two-parameter family $$X_{k,l}$$

X

k
,
l

of self-mirror quiver varieties of type A and study their quantum K-theory algebras. The desired quantum K-theory of $$\hbox {Hilb}^k[{\mathbb {C}}^2]$$

Hilb
k

[

C

2

]

is obtained via direct limit $$l\longrightarrow \infty $$

l
⟶
∞

and by imposing certain periodic boundary conditions on the quiver data. Throughout the proof, we employ the quantum/classical (q-Langlands) correspondence between XXZ Bethe Ansatz equations and spaces of twisted $$\hbar $$
ħ
-opers. In the end, we propose the 3d mirror dual for the moduli spaces of torsion-free rank-N sheaves on $${\mathbb {P}}^2$$

P

2

with the help of a different (three-parametric) family of type A quiver varieties with known mirror dual.
Discovering workflow nets of concurrent iterative processes
Authors: Tapia-Flores Tonatiuh , López-Mellado Ernesto
Published: September 2023

A novel and efficient method for discovering concurrent workflow processes is presented. It allows building a suitable workflow net (WFN) from a large event log$$\lambda $$λ, which represents the behaviour of complex iterative processes involving concurrency. First, thet-invariants are determined from$$\lambda $$λ; this allows computing the causal and concurrent relations between the events and the implicit causal relations between events that do not appear consecutively in$$\lambda $$λ. Then a 1-bounded WFN is built, which could be eventually adjusted if itst-invariants do not match with those computed from$$\lambda $$λ. The discovered model allows firing all the traces in$$\lambda $$λ. The procedures derived from the method are polynomial time on$$|\lambda |$$|λ|; they have been implemented and tested on artificial logs.
Applying the Hybrid Concept as a Bridge to Transplantation in Infants Without Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Frandsen Erik L. , Schauer Jenna S. , Morray Brian H. , Mauchley David C. , McMullan David M. , Friedland-Little Joshua M. , Kemna Mariska S.
Published: September 2023

Therapies to support small infants in decompensated heart failure that are failing medical management are limited. We have used the hybrid approach, classically reserved for high-risk infants with single ventricle physiology, in patients with biventricular physiology with left ventricular failure. This approach secures systemic circulation, relieves left atrial hypertension, protects the pulmonary vasculature, and allows the right ventricle to support cardiac output. This approach can be used as a bridge to transplantation in select individuals. Infants without single ventricle congenital heart disease who were treated with the hybrid approach between 2008 and 2021 were included in analysis. Eight patients were identified. At the time of hybrid procedure, the median weight was 3.2 kg (range 2.4–3.6 kg) and the median age was 18 days (range 1–153 days). Seventy five percent were mechanically ventilated and 88% were on inotropic support. The median duration from hybrid procedure to transplant was 63 days (range 4–116 days). All patients experienced a good outcome (delisted for improvement or transplanted). The hybrid procedure is an appropriate therapeutic bridge to transplantation in a carefully selected subset of critically ill infants without single ventricle congenital heart disease in whom alternate therapies may confer increased risk for morbidity and mortality.
Moderne Hornhautdiagnostik als Schlüssel für die korrekte Einordnung der Erkrankung und optimale Therapieentscheidung
Authors: Berger Tim , Flockerzi Elias , Daas Loay , Hamon Loïc , Khattabi Zaynab , Berger Maximilian , Seitz Berthold
Published: September 2023

Hornhauterkrankungen umfassen ein breites Spektrum unterschiedlicher Erscheinungsformen (entzündlich/nichtentzündlich), die für eine präzise Diagnose und gezielte Behandlung genau klassifiziert werden müssen. Neben der Anamnese und der Spaltlampenbiomikroskopie können zur Eingrenzung der Diagnose weitere gerätegestützte Untersuchungen durchgeführt werden. Die moderne Hornhautbildgebung bietet heute eine Vielzahl von Technologien wie Topographie, Tomographie, In-vivo-Konfokalmikroskopie und die Analyse der Biomechanik, mit denen sich verschiedene Pathologien zuverlässig klassifizieren lassen. Darüber hinaus hilft die Kenntnis der verfügbaren Untersuchungsmodalitäten bei differenzialdiagnostischen Überlegungen und erleichtert die Indikationsstellung für einen stadiengerechten mikrochirurgischen Eingriff.
Prospective study on magnetic resonance imaging in cochlear implant patients
Authors: Helbig Silke , Thiemann Neele , Hattingen Elke , Loth Andreas , Stöver Timo , Leinung Martin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Monocentric, prospective study to investigate whether concomitant support of cochlear implant (CI) patients by CI-trained otolaryngologists and application of a standardized head bandage can minimize potential complications during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Thirty-seven patients with 46 CIs underwent MRI with a prophylactic head bandage. All participants and the otolaryngologist at the CI center completed pre- and post-MRI questionnaires documenting body region scanned, duration of MRI and bandage wear, field strength during the scan, and any complications. If pain was experienced, it was assessed using a visual analog scale (1–10).

Results

MRI was performed without adverse events in 37.8% of cases. Magnet dislocation requiring surgical revision occurred in 2% of cases. Pain was reported in 86% of cases, often due to the tightness of the dressing. Patients with rotating, MRI-compatible magnets reported significantly less pain than participants with older-generation implants. In 11% of cases, the MRI was discontinued.

Conclusion

Serious complications during MRI in cochlear implant patients are rare. Pain is the most common adverse event, probably mainly due to the tight bandage required by most implant types. With newer generations of magnets, these patients experience less pain, no dislocation of the magnets, and no need for bandaging. Although magnet dislocation cannot be completely prevented in older generations of implants, it appears to be reduced by good patient management, which recommends examination under the guidance of physicians trained in the use of hearing implants.
Distinct patterns of biomarker expression for atypical intraductal proliferations in prostate cancer
Authors: Martini Carmela , Logan Jessica M. , Sorvina Alexandra , Prabhakaran Sarita , Ung Benjamin S Y. , Johnson Ian R. D. , Hickey Shane M. , Brooks Robert D. ,   kConFab Consortium, Caruso Maria C. , Klebe Sonja , Karageorgos Litsa , O’Leary John J. , Delahunt Brett , Samaratunga Hemamali , Brooks Douglas A
Published: September 2023

High-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) is a well-characterised precursor lesion in prostate cancer. The term atypical intraductal proliferations (AIP) describes lesions with features that are far too atypical to be considered HGPIN, yet insufficient to be diagnosed as intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDCP). Here, a panel of biomarkers was assessed to provide insights into the biological relationship between IDCP, HGPIN, and AIP and their relevance to current clinicopathological recommendations. Tissue samples from 86 patients with prostate cancer were assessed by routine haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) with a biomarker panel (Appl1/Sortilin/Syndecan-1) and a PIN4 cocktail (34βE12+P63/P504S). Appl1 strongly labelled atypical secretory cells, effectively visualising intraductal lesions. Sortilin labelling was moderate-to-strong in > 70% of cases, while Syndecan-1 was moderate-to-strong in micropapillary HGPIN/AIP lesions (83% cases) versus flat/tufting HGPIN (≤ 20% cases). Distinct biomarker labelling patterns for atypical intraductal lesions of the prostate were observed, including early atypical changes (flat/tufting HGPIN) and more advanced atypical changes (micropapillary HGPIN/AIP). Furthermore, the biomarker panel may be used as a tool to overcome the diagnostic uncertainty surrounding AIP by supporting a definitive diagnosis of IDCP for such lesions displaying the same biomarker pattern as cribriform IDCP.
Tree species identity, canopy structure and prey availability differentially affect canopy spider diversity and trophic composition
Authors: Wildermuth Benjamin , Dönges Clemens , Matevski Dragan , Penanhoat Alice , Seifert Carlo L. , Seidel Dominik , Scheu Stefan , Schuldt Andreas
Published: September 2023

Forest canopies maintain a high proportion of arthropod diversity. The drivers that structure these communities, however, are poorly understood. Therefore, integrative research connecting tree species identity and environmental stand properties with taxonomic and functional community composition of canopy arthropods is required. In this study, we investigated how the taxonomic, functional and trophic composition of arboreal spider communities is affected by tree species composition and associated differences in canopy structure and prey availability in temperate forests. We sampled canopy spiders as well as their potential prey using insecticidal fogging in monospecific and mixed stands of native European beech, native Norway spruce and non-native Douglas fir. Trophic metrics were obtained from stable isotope analysis and structural canopy properties were assessed with mobile laser scanning. Monospecific native spruce stands promoted local canopy spider abundance and diversity, but native beech and beech–conifer mixtures had the highest diversity at landscape scale. Spider community composition differed between monospecific stands, with broadleaf–conifer mixtures mitigating these differences. Irrespective of tree species identity, spider abundance, taxonomic diversity, functional richness and isotopic richness increased in structurally heterogeneous canopies with high prey abundances, but functional evenness and trophic divergence decreased. Our study shows that canopy spiders are differentially affected by tree species identity, canopy structure and prey availability. Broadleaf–conifer mixtures mitigated negative effects of (non-native) conifers, but positive mixture effects were only evident at the landscape scale. Structurally heterogeneous canopies promoted the dominance of only specific trait clusters. This indicates that intermediate heterogeneity might result in high stability of ecological communities.
Schmerzbedingte Stigmatisierung bei Patienten mit Brust‑, Darm‑, Prostata- oder Lungenkrebs
Authors: Roicke A. , Esser P. , Hornemann B. , Ernst J.
Published: September 2023

Hintergrund

Untersuchungen von Krebspatienten zeigen eine moderate bis hohe Relevanz der wahrgenommenen Stigmatisierung. Bislang gibt es keine Studien, in denen Stigmatisierung in Abhängigkeit von Schmerzen bei Krebspatienten betrachtet wird. Wir analysieren den Zusammenhang von Schmerzen und Stigmatisierung bei vier häufigen Tumorentitäten.

Methoden

Im Rahmen einer registerbasierten bizentrischen Studie wurden quantitative Daten von 858 Patienten (45,6 % Frauen; Altersdurchschnitt 60,7 Jahre) mit Brust‑, Darm‑, Lungen- oder Prostatakrebs ausgewertet. Die wahrgenommene Stigmatisierung wurde mit der Social Impact Scale (SIS-D) erhoben, das Instrument umfasst neben dem Gesamtscore vier Subskalen. Schmerz ist mit dem Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) erfasst worden. Die Daten wurden mittels Korrelation und multipler Regression mit soziodemografischen und medizinischen Prädiktoren analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Von den 858 Krebspatienten gaben jene mit Lungen- und Brustkrebs die stärksten Schmerzen an. Die Schmerzstärke zeigt sich als Prädiktor für die Stigmatisierung bei Patienten mit Brust- und Darmkrebs. Zusätzlich kann ein jüngeres Lebensalter als Prädiktor für die Stigmatisierung festgestellt werden. Protektiv zeigt sich eine gute Lebensqualität. Die finalen Modelle weisen eine hohe Anpassungsgüte auf (korr. R2 > 0,35), mit Ausnahme des Regressionsmodells für Lungenkrebspatienten.

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung

Die Befunde unterstützen die Annahme eines Einflusses des Schmerzerlebens auf die wahrgenommene Stigmatisierung von Krebspatienten. Ein Zusammenhang zeigt sich zwischen der Stigmatisierung und der Depressivität. Diese Personengruppe sollte in der klinischen Praxis daher besondere psychoonkologische Aufmerksamkeit erfahren. Weitere Forschungen zu Verlauf und Mechanismen der schmerzbezogenen Stigmatisierung sind zusätzlich notwendig.
Maßnahmen zur urbanen Überflutungsprävention: Wirksamkeit von dezentraler Niederschlagswasserbewirtschaftung im Vergleich zu konventionellen Maßnahmen
Authors: Reinstaller Stefan , Funke Fabian , Kleidorfer Manfred , Muschalla Dirk
Published: September 2023

Mit der vorliegenden Arbeit wurden drei technische Maßnahmen hinsichtlich ihrer Wirksamkeit bezüglich urbaner Überflutungen auf das urbane Entwässerungssystem eines fiktiven Einzugsgebiets verglichen. Es konnte eine geeignete Methodik entwickelt werden, wie ein solcher Vergleich auch in anderen Einzugsgebieten durchgeführt werden kann. Insgesamt wurden drei technische Maßnahmen in ein modifiziertes 1D-2D-Überflutungsmodell implementiert und ein reales Starkregenereignis simuliert: i) Regenrückhaltebecken; ii) Notwasserwege in Kombination mit einer Retentionsmulde; iii) Kombination aus dezentralen Anlagen der Niederschlagswasserbewirtschaftung: extensives Gründach, durchlässige Parkflächen, Versickerungsmulden und Retentionsschächte. Die Wirksamkeit wurde im Anschluss an insgesamt vier Zielgrößen – Wasserstand an einem Hotspot, Abfluss in der Kanalisation, Mischwasserüberlaufvolumen, Überflutungsflächen – basierend auf der relativen Abweichung zum Referenzzustand quantifiziert und ausgewertet. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die dezentralen Maßnahmen genauso wie die Notwasserwege den Wasserstand als auch die Überflutungsflächen reduzieren können. Für die Bewertung des gesamten urbanen Entwässerungssystems ist ein kombinierter Ansatz hinsichtlich der Wirksamkeit anzustreben und mit realen Einzugsgebieten und realen Überflutungsereignissen zu analysieren.
Genetic engineering of low-temperature polyhydroxyalkanoate production by Acidovorax sp. A1169, a psychrophile isolated from a subglacial outflow
Authors: Grzesiak Jakub , Gawor Jan , Rogala Małgorzata Marta , Kouřilová Xenie , Obruča Stanislav
Published: September 2023

In recent years, extremophilic microorganisms have been employed as producers of the microbial bioplastics polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which are of great biotechnological value. Nevertheless, cold-loving or psychrophilic (cryophilic) bacteria have been neglected in this regard. Here, we present an investigation of the Arctic glacier-derived PHA producerAcidovoraxsp. A1169. Biolog GEN III Microplates were used as a screening tool to identify the most suitable carbon substrate concerning PHA synthesis. The strain produced homopolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) most efficiently (2 g/L) at a temperature of 15 °C when supplied with fructose or mannitol as carbon sources with a substantial decrease of PHB biosynthesis at 17.5 °C. The PHB yield did not increase considerably or even decreased when carbon source concentration exceeded 10 g/L hinting that the strain is oligotrophic in nature. The strain was also capable of introducing 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) into the polymer structure, which is known to improve PHA thermoplastic properties. This is the first investigation providing insight into a PHA biosynthesis process by means of a true psychrophile, offering guidelines on polar-region bacteria cultivation, production of PHA and also on the methodology for genetic engineering of psychrophiles.
Closed Range Integral Operators on Fock Spaces
Authors: Fekadiea Zenaw Asnake , Mengestie Tesfa , Takele Mollalgn Haile
Published: September 2023

We study the closed range problem for generalized Volterra-type integral operators on Fock spaces. We first answer the problem using the notions of sampling sets, reverse Fock–Carleson measures, Berezin type integral transforms, and essential boundedness from below of some functions of the symbols of the operators. The answer is further analyzed to show that the operators have closed ranges only when the derivative of the composition symbol belongs to the unit circle. It turns out that there exists no nontrivial closed range integral operator acting between two different Fock spaces. The main results equivalently describe when the operators are bounded below. Explicit expressions for the range of the operators are also provided, namely that the closed ranges contain only elements of the space which vanish at the origin. We further describe conditions under which the operators admit order bounded structures.
Evaluation of heavy metal contamination using cokriging geostatistical method (case study of Abteymour oilfield in southern Iran)
Authors: Khodoli Zangeneh Danial , Amanipoor Hakimeh , Battaleb-Looie Sedigheh
Published: September 2023

One of the most significant sources of soil contamination is the industries involved in the discovery, extraction, and use of petroleum and gas resources. One of the largest oil fields in Iran is the Abteymour oilfield, which is situated in the agricultural areas and Karun river flood plain. This study was carried out to analyze and monitor soil contamination by heavy metals and to create a map of the spread of contamination in the vicinity of the Abteymour oilfield, taking into account the significance of soil pollution in such a region. Thirty-three samples from the local surface soils were used in this study, and in addition to testing the ICP-MASS device's ability to detect the presence of heavy metals and other key elements, some of the soil's physical and chemical characteristics were also determined. After drawing the variograms and determining the appropriate fitting model, the cokriging method was used to study the spatial distribution of Al, Ti, Sr, Cr, Ni, V, Cu, Li, and Pb heavy metals and Na and S elements. The results of the heavy metals distribution in the studied area showed that the distribution of the studied elements is affected by geological conditions and human activities, including the petroleum industry and agriculture activities.
Inequality persists in a large citizen science programme despite increased participation through ICT innovations
Authors: Jönsson Mari , Kasperowski Dick , Coulson Stephen James , Nilsson Johan , Bína Pavel , Kullenberg Christopher , Hagen Niclas , van der Wal René , Peterson Jesse
Published: September 2023

Biological recording is a prominent and widely practised form of citizen science, but few studies explore long-term demographic trends in participation and knowledge production. We studied long-term demographic trends of age and gender of participants reporting to a large online citizen science multi-taxon biodiversity platform (www.artportalen.se). Adoption by user communities and continually developing Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) greatly increased the number of participants reporting data, but profound long-term imbalances in gender contribution across species groups persisted over time. Reporters identifying as male dominated in numbers, spent more days in the field reporting and reported more species on each field day. Moreover, an age imbalance towards older participants amplified over time. As the first long-term study of citizen participation by age and gender, our results show that it is important for citizen science project developers to account for cultural and social developments that might exclude participants, and to engage with underrepresented and younger participants. This could facilitate the breadth of engagement and learning across a larger societal landscape, ensure project longevity and biodiversity data representation (e.g. mitigate gender bias influence on the number of reports of different species groups).
Experimental and numerical investigation on failure characteristics and mechanism of coal with different water contents
Authors: Liu Xuewei , Chen Haixiao , Liu Bin , Wang Sai , Liu Quansheng , Luo Yong , Luo Jin
Published: September 2023

Water injection, as a widely used technique to prevent coal burst, can restrain the fractured coal seam and released the energy storage. In this study, laboratory tests were firstly carried out on standard coal specimens with five different water contents (i.e., 0%, 0.6%, 1.08%, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.3%). The failure mode, fragment size, and energy distribution characteristics of coal specimens were investigated. Experimental results show that strength, elastic strain energy, dissipated energy, brittleness index, as well as impact energy index decrease with increasing water content. Besides, the failure mode transitions gradually from splitting ejection to tensile-shear mixed failure mode as water content increases, and average fragment size shows positively related to water content. Moreover, scanning electron microscope tests results indicate that water in coal sample mainly causes the mineral softening and defects increase. Furthermore, a numerical model containing roadway excavation was established considering the water on coal burst prevention. Modelling results revealed that water injection can reduce degree of coal burst and ejection velocity of coal blocks, while it will raise up the depth of crack zone and surface displacement of roadway. Combined with laboratory tests and numerical results, the micro mechanism, energy mechanism, and engineering significance of water injection on coal burst prevention were finally analyzed.