bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomimetic Transparent Nanoplasmonic Meshes by Reverse‐Nanoimprinting for Bio‐Interfaced Spatiotemporal Multimodal SERS Bioanalysis
Authors: Garg Aditya , Mejia Elieser , Nam Wonil , Vikesland Peter , Zhou Wei
Published: September 2022

Multicellular systems, such as microbial biofilms and cancerous tumors, feature complex biological activities coordinated by cellular interactions mediated via different signaling and regulatory pathways, which are intrinsically heterogeneous, dynamic, and adaptive. However, due to their invasiveness or their inability to interface with native cellular networks, standard bioanalysis methods do not allow in situ spatiotemporal biochemical monitoring of multicellular systems to capture holistic spatiotemporal pictures of systems‐level biology. Here, a high‐throughput reverse nanoimprint lithography approach is reported to create biomimetic transparent nanoplasmonic microporous mesh (BTNMM) devices with ultrathin flexible microporous structures for spatiotemporal multimodal surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) measurements at the bio‐interface. It is demonstrated that BTNMMs, supporting uniform and ultrasensitive SERS hotspots, can simultaneously enable spatiotemporal multimodal SERS measurements for targeted pH sensing and non‐targeted molecular detection to resolve the diffusion dynamics for pH, adenine, and Rhodamine 6G molecules in agarose gel. Moreover, it is demonstrated that BTNMMs can act as multifunctional bio‐interfaced SERS sensors to conduct in situ spatiotemporal pH mapping and molecular profiling of Escherichia coli biofilms. It is envisioned that the ultrasensitive multimodal SERS capability, transport permeability, and biomechanical compatibility of the BTNMMs can open exciting avenues for bio‐interfaced multifunctional sensing applications both in vitro and in vivo.
Rich Self‐Generated Phase Boundaries of Heterostructured VS4/Bi2S3@C Nanorods for Long Lifespan Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fan Runze , Zhao Chenyu , Ma Jiahui , Wu Jun , He Tao , Dong Yangtao , Dai Junjie , Cai Yurong
Published: September 2022

Rationally designing on sundry multiphase compounds has come into the spotlight for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to enhanced structural stability and improved electrochemical performances. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of thorough understanding of the reaction mechanism of high‐active phase boundaries existing between multiphase compounds. Here, a VS4/Bi2S3@C composite anode for SIBs with rich phase boundaries in heterostructure is successfully synthesized. In situ X‐ray diffraction analyses demonstrate a multistep redox mechanism in the heterostructures and ex situ transmission electron microscopy results confirm that tremendous self‐generated phase boundaries are obtained and well‐maintained during cycling, dramatically leading to stable reaction interfaces and better structural integrity. Combining experimental and theoretical results, a self‐built‐in electric field forming between phase boundaries acts as a dominate driving force for Na+ transport kinetics. Benefiting from the fast reaction kinetics of phase boundaries, the heterojunction provides an efficient approach to avoid abnormal voltage failure. As expected, the VS4/Bi2S3@C heterostructure displays superior sodium storage performances, especially an excellent long‐term cycling stability (379.0 mAh g−1 after 1800 cycles at a current density up to 2 A g−1). This work confirms a critical role of phase boundaries on superior reversibility and structural stability, and provides a strategy for analogous conversion/alloying‐type anodes.
HFH‐Nachbehandlung höchstfester Baustähle – Erweiterung der DASt‐Richtlinie 026 – Kerbfalleinstufung unter Berücksichtigung geometrischer Fertigungsimperfektionen
Authors: Ummenhofer Thomas , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Henkel Knuth‐Michael , Flügge Wilko , Weidner Philipp , Armbruster Katrin , Gölz Lisa‐Marie , Gericke Andreas , Ripsch Benjamin
Published: September 2022

Bei hochbeanspruchten Stahlkonstruktionen wie Windenergieanlagen oder Brücken ist der Einsatz höchstfester Baustähle interessant, allerdings wird bei diesen Bauwerken meist der Ermüdungsnachweis maßgebend. Die in den zu verwendenden Regelwerken angegebenen Kerbfälle sind unabhängig von der Werkstofffestigkeit, sodass der Einsatz hoch‐ oder höchstfester Stähle bei einer Dominanz des Betriebsfestigkeitsnachweises keine Vorteile bei diesen Konstruktionen bietet. Durch den Einsatz einer Schweißnahtnachbehandlung mit höherfrequenten Hämmerverfahren (HFH) kann die Ermüdungsfestigkeit geschweißter Verbindungen jedoch entscheidend erhöht werden. Dabei zeigen alle bisherigen Untersuchungen eine zunehmende Effektivität der HFH‐Verfahren mit steigender Werkstofffestigkeit. Die neue DASt‐Richtlinie 026 regelt die Ermüdungsbemessung von Kerbdetails aus den Stahlsorten S235–S700 für die Anwendung von HFH‐Verfahren. Die Erweiterung auf höchstfeste Stähle bis S960 steht noch aus. Ebenso ist der Umgang mit geometrischen Imperfektionen außerhalb der Grenzwerte der Schweißnahtbewertungsgruppe B gemäß ISO 5817 bislang nicht geregelt. Im laufenden AiF‐FOSTA‐Forschungsprojekt 21410 BG (P 1505) sollen die Grundlagen für eine Erweiterung der DASt‐Richtlinie 026 auf höchstfeste Stähle bis S960 gelegt und der Einfluss von erhöhten Fertigungsimperfektionen auf die Ermüdungsfestigkeit HFH‐behandelter Schweißnähte gezielt untersucht werden. Im Folgenden wird das Vorhaben vorgestellt und erste Projektergebnisse gezeigt.
The effect and mechanism of excessive iodine on the endothelial function of human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Wang Dandan , Li Peng , Liu Lixiang , Liu Peng , Zhou Zheng , Jin Meihui , Li Baoxiang , Li Fan , Chen Yao , Shen Hongmei
Published: September 2022

Iodine excess (IE) can cause thyroid dysfunction, thyroid diseases can adversely affect cardiovascular function. Accordingly, this study was to explore the direct and indirect effects of IE on endothelial function. Nthy‐ori 3‐1 and HUVECs cells were treated with potassium iodide (KI). CCK‐8, LDH leakage, Elisa, RT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to detect relevant indicators. Results showed that a certain level of KI can directly and indirectly reduce the viability of HUVECs and increase cytotoxicity. KI decreased the expression of ET‐1 and VWF in HUVECs, inhibited the secretion of ET‐1 in culture medium, and increased the expression of IL‐6 and TNFα in HUVECs or Nthy‐ori 3‐1 cells alone. In the co‐culture system, KI decreased the expression of ET‐1 and THBD and increased the expression of TNFα and IL‐6. Collectively, IE can directly and indirectly inhibit endothelial function of endothelial cells, which may be related to its induced inflammatory response.
Dither: A unifying model of the effects of visitor numbers on zoo animal behavior
Authors: Krebs Bethany L. , Eschmann Caitlin L. , Watters Jason V.
Published: September 2022

Interest in the impact of human presence on the behavior and well‐being of zoo and aquarium animals is increasing. Previous work has conceptualized the presence of zoo visitors as having one of three impacts on the behavior of animals in zoos: positive, negative, or neutral. Research suggests the same species may exhibit all three responses under different conditions, calling into question whether the positive/negative/neutral framework is the most useful way of considering visitor impact on animal behavior. Here we present a model of visitor effects that unifies these three predictions. Our model suggests that zoo‐goers may provide a “dither effect” for some animals living in zoos. We posit animals may show nonlinear behavioral responses over a range of visitor densities, effectively exhibiting changes in both comfortable and anxiety‐like behaviors under different levels of human presence. We tested this model during two COVID‐19 related closures at the San Francisco Zoo, studying seven species for evidence of nonlinear relationships between visitor numbers and animal behavior. Our results support the dither effect acting in several species observed.
Brief Presentation and Key Project Results
Authors: Bellon Jacqueline , Eyssel Friederike , Gransche Bruno , Nähr-Wagener Sebastian , Wullenkord Ricarda
Published: September 2022

poliTE—Social Appropriateness for Artificial Assistants examined the phenomenon of social appropriateness through the lens of ‘cultural techniques’ to understand socially shared contexts of action and their potential transferability to human–machine interactions.
Reflections on Sociosensitive and Socioactive Technology
Authors: Bellon Jacqueline , Eyssel Friederike , Gransche Bruno , Nähr-Wagener Sebastian , Wullenkord Ricarda
Published: September 2022

Chapter 2 gave a list of purposes for which this book and the FASA model are suitable and another list for which they are not. Regarding the model’s applicability and validity and also in general, there are various other questions about sociosensitive and socioactive technology that must be considered, including ethical aspects. This chapter deals with the book’s aim to increase awareness of the complexity and sometimes problematic nature of developing, designing, disseminating, using, and regulating sociosensitive and socioactive systems.
Feynman integrals in dimensional regularization and extensions of Calabi-Yau motives
Authors: Bönisch Kilian , Duhr Claude , Fischbach Fabian , Klemm Albrecht , Nega Christoph
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We provide a comprehensive summary of concepts from Calabi-Yau motives relevant to the computation of multi-loop Feynman integrals. From this we derive several consequences for multi-loop integrals in general, and we illustrate them on the example of multi-loop banana integrals. For example, we show how Griffiths transversality, known from the theory of variation of mixed Hodge structures, leads quite generically to a set of quadratic relations among maximal cut integrals associated to Calabi-Yau motives. These quadratic relations then naturally lead to a compact expression forl-loop banana integrals inD= 2 dimensions in terms of an integral over a period of a Calabi-Yau (l− 1)-fold. This new integral representation generalizes in a natural way the known representations forl≤ 3 involving logarithms with square root arguments and iterated integrals of Eisenstein series. In a second part, we show how the results obtained by some of the authors in earlier work can be extended to dimensional regularization. We present a method to obtain the differential equations for banana integrals with an arbitrary number of loops in dimensional regularization without the need to solve integration-by-parts relations. We also present a compact formula for the leading asymptotics of banana integrals with an arbitrary number of loops in the large momentum limit. This generalizes the novel$$ \hat{\Gamma} $$Γ̂-class introduced by some of the authors to dimensional regularization and provides a convenient boundary condition to solve the differential equations for the banana integrals. As an application, we present for the first time numerical results for equal-mass banana integrals with up to four loops and up to second order in the dimensional regulator.
Measure and Module of Helmut Spieker’s Marburg Building System 1960–1970
Authors: Rehm Robin , Langenberg Silke
Published: September 2022

Using the example of the well-known “Marburg building system” by Helmut Spieker (1933–2014), this contribution analyzes how the proportional rules of the Vitruvius tradition, already modified in the modified century, changed as a result of the advancing industrialization of architecture in the 1960s. After 1945, construction had to be done quickly and inexpensively. Ernst Neufert’s Bauentwurfslehre provided the foundation for the production of standardized components in large quantities. Spieker’s system is one of the most important examples of modularized constructions, from the installation and furnishings to the wall and ceiling elements, etc. Although it is based on rational criteria of the norm and the module, Spieker’s method is linked to the tradition of proportion. We examine the question of how the traditional architectural proportion can be made norm-compliant and then translated into a specific construction system.
A method for detailed determination of hospital surge capacity: a prerequisite for optimal preparedness for mass-casualty incidents
Authors: Montán Kristina Lennquist , Örtenwall Per , Blimark Magnus , Montán Carl , Lennquist Sten
Published: September 2022

Background

Defined goals for hospitals’ ability to handle mass-casualty incidents (MCI) are a prerequisite for optimal planning as well as training, and also as base for quality assurance and improvement. This requires methods to test individual hospitals in sufficient detail to numerically determine surge capacity for different components of the hospitals. Few such methods have so far been available. The aim of the present study was with the use of a simulation model well proven and validated for training to determine capacity-limiting factors in a number of hospitals, identify how these factors were related to each other and also possible measures for improvement of capacity.

Materials and methods

As simulation tool was used the MACSIM® system, since many years used for training in the international MRMI courses and also successfully used in a pilot study of surge capacity in a major hospital. This study included 6 tests in three different hospitals, in some before and after re-organisation, and in some both during office- and non-office hours.

Results

The primary capacity-limiting factor in all hospitals was the capacity to handle severely injured patients (major trauma) in the emergency department. The load of such patients followed in all the tests a characteristic pattern with “peaks” corresponding to ambulances return after re-loading. Already the first peak exceeded the hospitals capacity for major trauma, and the following peaks caused waiting times for such patients leading to preventable mortality according to the patient—data provided by the system. This emphasises the need of an immediate and efficient coordination of the distribution of casualties between hospitals. The load on surgery came in all tests later, permitting either clearing of occupied theatres (office hours) or mobilising staff (non-office hours) sufficient for all casualties requiring immediate surgery. The final capacity-limiting factors in all tests was the access to intensive care, which also limited the capacity for surgery. On a scale 1–10, participating staff evaluated the accuracy of the methodology for test of surge capacity to MD 8 (IQR 2), for improvement of disaster plans to MD 9 (IQR 2) and for simultaneous training to MD 9 (IQR 3).

Conclusions

With a simulation system including patient data with a sufficient degree of detail, it was possible to identify and also numerically determine the critical capacity-limiting factors in the different phases of the hospital response to MCI, to serve as a base for planning, training, quality control and also necessary improvement to rise surge capacity of the individual hospital.
The wolf (canis lupus) as a symbol of an urban–rural divide? Results from a media discourse analysis on the human–wolf conflict in Germany
Authors: Zscheischler Jana , Friedrich Jonathan
Published: September 2022

Given that wolves have been extinct in Germany for approximately 150 years, their return and growing population over the last decade has caused intense discussion and conflict. To develop a widely accepted and just coexistence between humans and wolves, a comprehensive understanding of the conflict is needed. There are indications that the conflict goes beyond dealing with the wolf population and marks a spatial–cultural divide between urban and rural areas. Nevertheless, the social dimensions of the human–wolf conflict in Germany have been little studied. The aim of this paper is to narrow this gap by means of a media discourse analysis including reader comments in order to provide insights into the constituent elements of this conflict. We conducted a qualitative content analysis. The sample comprises articles (n = 63) and reader comments (n = 515) over a period of one year (5/2018-5/2019) from six online periodicals in Germany. The results support the assumption of an urban–rural divide in terms of perspectives and values. The discourse indicates that rural actors who are most affected by the wolves’ vicinity have more negative attitudes towards them. At the same time, they feel abandoned and dominated by urban perspectives and politics. In addition, linkages to right-wing populist positions and conspiracy narratives that can be interpreted as a consequence of political alienation are found.
Targeting tumour-reprogrammed myeloid cells: the new battleground in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: De Sanctis Francesco , Adamo Annalisa , Canè Stefania , Ugel Stefano
Published: September 2022

Tumour microenvironment is a complex ecosystem in which myeloid cells are the most abundant immune elements. This cell compartment is composed by different cell types, including neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and monocytes but also unexpected cell populations with immunosuppressive and pro-tumour roles. Indeed, the release of tumour-derived factors influences physiological haematopoiesis producing unconventional cells with immunosuppressive and tolerogenic functions such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells. These pro-tumour myeloid cell populations not only support immune escape directly but also assist tumour invasion trough non-immunological activities. It is therefore not surprising that these cell subsets considerably impact in tumour progression and cancer therapy resistance, including immunotherapy, and are being investigated as potential targets for developing a new era of cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss emerging strategies able to modulate the functional activity of these tumour-supporting myeloid cells subverting their accumulation, recruitment, survival, and functions. These innovative approaches will help develop innovative, or improve existing, cancer treatments.
Hodentumoren aus klinischer Sicht
Authors: Oing Christoph , Fankhauser Christian Daniel
Published: September 2022

Hintergrund

Keimzelltumoren des Hodens sind die häufigste maligne Tumorerkrankung bei Männern im Alter von 15–40 Jahren. Die Unterscheidung von Seminomen und Nichtseminomen hat prognostische Bedeutung und ist für Therapieplanung und Nachsorge essenziell. Durch interdisziplinäre, stadiengerechte Therapie haben Keimzelltumoren generell eine sehr gute Prognose. Eine Übertherapie sollte wegen möglicher Langzeitfolgen vermieden werden. Hierbei hilft die Risikobeurteilung anhand klinischer und pathologischer Faktoren.

Ziel der Arbeit

Darstellung der (histo-)pathologischen Charakteristika, die die uroonkologische Therapieplanung maßgeblich beeinflussen.

Material und Methoden

Nichtsystematischer Übersichtsartikel über die relevanten (histo-)pathologischen Befunde für die klinische Therapieplanung im interdisziplinären Kontext.

Ergebnisse

Zentrale Pathologiebefunde für Kliniker:Innen sind: (i) Identifikation eines Keimzelltumors, ggf. durch Nachweis eines Chromosom-12p-Zugewinns, (ii) Subtypenspezifizierung und (iii) Angabe von Risikofaktoren (insbesondere Invasion von Lymphgefäßen und/oder Rete testis und Tumorgröße). Molekularpathologische Untersuchungen i. S. von Mutationsanalysen sind angesichts einer sehr geringen Mutationslast und bislang fehlender prädiktiver Marker und zielgerichteter Therapieoptionen nicht Teil der Routinediagnostik.

Diskussion

Ein detaillierter, idealerweise synoptischer histopathologischer Befundbericht ist Grundlage der Planung und Durchführung einer leitlinienkonformen, risikoadaptierten Therapie und neben der bildgebenden Diagnostik und der Bestimmung der Serumtumormarker AFP und β‑HCG (letztere insbesondere bei Nichtseminomen) mitentscheidend, um die guten Heilungsaussichten zu wahren und eine Übertherapie zu vermeiden.
Maßnahmen zur Reduzierung von plastischer Verformung an statischen Druckplatten von Lammellenbremsen infolge einseitig eingebrachter hoher Reibleistung
Authors: Schadomsky Magnus , Blumenthal Lars , Zimmer Detmar , Peter Simon , Boros Laszlo
Published: September 2022

Die thermisch verursachte, plastische Verformung an statischen Druckplatten von Lamellenbremsen kann das Betriebsverhalten von Bremsen nachhaltig stören und sollte daher vermieden werden. So kann die plastische Verformung der Druckplatte beispielsweise zu einer Verkleinerung des Luftspalts führen und ungewollte Veränderung der Reibverhältnisse verursachen.

Während des Bremsvorgangs dehnen sich hoch erwärmte Bereiche nah der Reibfläche aus und werden von den Zonen geringerer Temperatur an ihrer Ausdehnung gehindert. Überschreiten die daraus resultierenden Spannungen die Dehngrenze des Materials, kommt es zu plastischer Verformung. Dieser Artikel erläutert den physikalischen Verformungsprozess detailliert und darauf aufbauend, welche Maßnahmen zu einer Verringerung der Verformung ergriffen werden können. Dazu werden im Rahmen theoretischer Vorüberlegungen drei Ansätze identifiziert, die sowohl die Geometrie als auch die Werkstoffe der Druckplatten betreffen. Radiale Schlitze sollen die Behinderung der thermischen Dehnung verhindern und dadurch Spannungen reduzieren; die Werkstoffauswahl auf Basis der Thermoschockempfindlichkeit reduziert die plastische Verformung. Anhand einer kombinierten Simulation der Thermik und der Mechanik einer Druckplatte wird der Effekt dieser Ansätze an vier Varianten der Druckplatte überprüft. Experimentelle Untersuchungen an realen Prototypen der Druckplattenvarianten bestätigen die Ergebnisse der Simulation und weisen die Wirksamkeit der vorgeschlagenen Maßnahmen zur Reduzierung der plastischen Verformung nach.
The handling of missing data in trial-based economic evaluations: should data be multiply imputed prior to longitudinal linear mixed-model analyses?
Authors: Ben Ângela Jornada , van Dongen Johanna M. , Alili Mohamed El , Heymans Martijn W. , Twisk Jos W. R. , MacNeil-Vroomen Janet L. , de Wit Maartje , van Dijk Susan E. M. , Oosterhuis Teddy , Bosmans Judith E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

For the analysis of clinical effects, multiple imputation (MI) of missing data were shown to be unnecessary when using longitudinal linear mixed-models (LLM). It remains unclear whether this also applies to trial-based economic evaluations. Therefore, this study aimed to assess whether MI is required prior to LLM when analyzing longitudinal cost and effect data.

Methods

Two-thousand complete datasets were simulated containing five time points. Incomplete datasets were generated with 10, 25, and 50% missing data in follow-up costs and effects, assuming a Missing At Random (MAR) mechanism. Six different strategies were compared using empirical bias (EB), root-mean-squared error (RMSE), and coverage rate (CR). These strategies were: LLM alone (LLM) and MI with LLM (MI-LLM), and, as reference strategies, mean imputation with LLM (M-LLM), seemingly unrelated regression alone (SUR-CCA), MI with SUR (MI-SUR), and mean imputation with SUR (M-SUR).

Results

For costs and effects, LLM, MI-LLM, and MI-SUR performed better than M-LLM, SUR-CCA, and M-SUR, with smaller EBs and RMSEs as well as CRs closers to nominal levels. However, even though LLM, MI-LLM and MI-SUR performed equally well for effects, MI-LLM and MI-SUR were found to perform better than LLM for costs at 10 and 25% missing data. At 50% missing data, all strategies resulted in relatively high EBs and RMSEs for costs.

Conclusion

LLM should be combined with MI when analyzing trial-based economic evaluation data. MI-SUR is more efficient and can also be used, but then an average intervention effect over time cannot be estimated.
Effective Roughness and Displaced Mean Flow over Complex Terrain
Authors: Kelly Mark , Cavar Dalibor
Published: September 2022

Via analysis of velocity and stress fields from Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes simulations over diverse complex terrains spanning several continents, in neutral conditions we find displaced areal-mean logarithmic wind speed profiles. The corresponding effective roughness length ($$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

), friction velocity ($$u _{*\text {,eff}}$$

u

∗
,eff

), and displacement height ($$d_\text {eff}$$

d
eff

) characterise the drag exerted by the terrain. Simulations and spectral analyses reveal that the terrain statistics—and consequently $$d_\text {eff}$$

d
eff

, $$u _{*\text {,eff}}$$

u

∗
,eff

and $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

—can change significantly with flow direction, including flow in opposite directions. Previous studies over scaled or simulated fractal surfaces reported $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

to depend on the standard deviation of terrain elevation ($$\sigma _h$$

σ
h

), but over real terrains we find $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

varies with standard deviation of terrain slopes ($$\sigma _{\Delta h/\Delta x}$$

σ

Δ
h
/
Δ
x

). Terrain spectra show the dominant scales contributing to $$\sigma _{\Delta h/\Delta x}$$

σ

Δ
h
/
Δ
x

vary from $$\sim $$
∼
1–10 km, with power-law behaviour over smaller scales corresponding to fractal terrain used in earlier works. The dependence of $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

on $$\sigma _{\Delta h/\Delta x}$$

σ

Δ
h
/
Δ
x

is consistent with fractal terrain having $$\sigma _{\Delta h/\Delta x} \propto \sigma _h$$

σ

Δ
h
/
Δ
x

∝

σ
h

, as well as classic theory for individual hills. We obtain relationships for $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

, $$d_\text {eff}$$

d
eff

, and $$u _{*\text {,eff}}$$

u

∗
,eff

in terms of $$\sigma _{\Delta h/\Delta x}$$

σ

Δ
h
/
Δ
x

, finding that $$d_\text {eff}$$

d
eff

acts as a characteristic length scale within $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

. Considering flow in opposite directions, use of upslope statistics did not improve $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

predictions; sheltering effects likely require more sophisticated treatment. Our findings impact practical applications and research, including micrometeorological flow, computational fluid dynamics, atmospheric model coupling, and mesoscale and climate modelling. We discuss limitations of the $$z_\text {0,eff}$$

z
0,eff

formulations developed herein, and provide recommendations for practical use.
Structure–function models for estimating retinal ganglion cell count using steady-state pattern electroretinography and optical coherence tomography in glaucoma suspects and preperimetric glaucoma: an electrophysiological pilot study
Authors: Orshan Derek , Tirsi Andrew , Sheha Hosam , Gliagias Vasiliki , Tsai Joby , Park Sung Chul , Obstbaum Stephen A. , Tello Celso
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To derive and validate structure–function models for estimating retinal ganglion cell (RGC) count using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and steady-state pattern electroretinography (ssPERG) parameters in glaucoma suspects (GS) and preperimetric glaucoma (PPG).

Methods

In this prospective cross-sectional study, 25 subjects (50 eyes) were recruited at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital. Subjects underwent comprehensive eye examinations, OCT, standard automated perimetry (SAP), and ssPERG testing. Eyes were divided into three groups based on the Global Glaucoma Staging System: healthy (N = 30), GS (N = 10), and PPG (N= 10) eyes. The combined structure–function index (CSFI), which estimates retinal ganglion cell count (eRGCCSFI) from SAP and OCT parameters, was calculated in each study subject. Two prediction formulas were derived using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) to predict eRGCCSFIfrom ssPERG parameters, age, and average retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (ARNFLT) in 30 eyes selected at random (training group). GLMM predicted values were cross-validated with the remaining 20 eyes (validation group).

Results

The ARNFLT, ssPERG parameters magnitude (Mag) and magnitudeD (MagD), and eRGCCSFIwere significantly different among study groups (ANOVAp ≤ 0.001). Pearson correlations demonstrated significant associations among ARNFLT, ssPERG parameters, and eRGCCSFI(r2 ≥ 0.31,p < 0.001). Two GLMMs predicted eRGCCSFIfrom Mag (eRGCMag) and MagD (eRGCMagD), respectively, with significant equations (F(3,18),F(3,19) ≥  58.37,R2 = 0.90,p < 0.001). eRGCMagand eRGCMagDin the validation group (R2 = 0.89) correlated with eRGCCSFIsimilarly to the training group. Multivariate pairwise comparisons revealed that eRGCMagand eRGCMagDdistinguished between healthy, GS, and PPG eyes (p ≤ 0.035), whereas independent Mag, MagD, and ARNFLT measures did not distinguish between GS and PPG eyes.

Conclusion

This pilot study offers the first combined structure–function models for estimating RGC count using ssPERG parameters. RGC counts estimated with these models were generalizable, strongly associated with CSFI estimates, and performed better than individual ssPERG and OCT measures in distinguishing healthy, GS, and PPG eyes.
The transition from school to university mathematics in different contexts: affective and sociocultural issues in students’ crisis
Authors: Di Martino Pietro , Gregorio Francesca , Iannone Paola
Published: September 2022

Understanding the secondary–tertiary transition is not only an educational matter, but also an inclusion and equality matter as mathematics qualifications lead to better employment and better earning for students. Research on what causes the crisis associated to this transition has so far focused on the impact of cognitive and epistemological changes in university mathematics. Recently, attention has been given to sociocultural and affective issues, which indicate the impact of diverse contexts on such event in the students’ life. Here we present a study investigating the experiences of first-year mathematics students in three European countries. The study adopted the framework of transition as a rite of passage and to detect the changes in attitudes towards the mathematics which originated the crisis, the three-dimensional model for attitude towards mathematics (TMA) was used. Data consist in one questionnaire translated into three languages and administered to students in the first year of study. Most of the questions were open-ended, and the data were analysed first qualitatively and then quantitised. Results show that while the transition experiences of the students may seem on the surface uniform, some significant differences emerge for motivation to join mathematics degrees, motives for changes in perceived competence, and impact of university mathematics formalism. We hypothesise a link between these changes and the differences in educational environments in the three countries. We conclude with highlighting the need for more research of this kind to understand the secondary–tertiary transition in the educational context in which it happens.
High frequency UV–Vis sensors estimate error in riverine dissolved organic carbon load estimates from grab sampling
Authors: Ritson J. P. , Kennedy-Blundell O. , Croft J. , Templeton M. R. , Hawkins C. E. , Clark J. M. , Evans M. G. , Brazier R. E. , Smith D. , Graham N. J. D.
Published: September 2022

High frequency ultraviolet – visible (UV–VIS) sensors offer a way of improving dissolved organic carbon (DOC) load estimates in rivers as they can be calibrated to DOC concentration. This is an improvement on periodic grab sampling, or the use of pumped sampling systems which store samples in-field before collection. We hypothesised that the move to high frequency measurements would increase the load estimate based on grab sampling due to systemic under-sampling of high flows. To test our hypotheses, we calibrated two sensors in contrasting catchments (Exe and Bow Brook, UK) against weekly grab sampled DOC measurements and then created an hourly time series of DOC for the two sites. Taking this measurement as a ‘true’ value of DOC load, we simulated 1,000 grab sampling campaigns at weekly, fortnightly and monthly frequency to understand the likely distribution of load and error estimates. We also performed an analysis of daily grab samples collected using a pumped storage sampling system with weekly collection. Our results show that: a) grab sampling systemically underestimates DOC loads and gives positively skewed distributions of results, b) this under-estimation and positive skew decreases with increasing sampling frequency, c) commonly used estimates of error in the load value are also systemically lowered by the oversampling of low, stable flows due to their dependence on the variance in the flow-weighted mean concentration, and d) that pumped storage systems may lead to under-estimation of DOC and over estimation of specific ultra-violet absorbance (SUVA), a proxy for aromaticity, due to biodegradation during storage.
Crater-rim collapse at Stromboli volcano: understanding the mechanisms leading from the failure of hot rocks to the development of glowing avalanches
Authors: Di Traglia Federico , Borselli Lorenzo , Nolesini Teresa , Casagli Nicola
Published: September 2022

The failures of volcanic crater-rims frequently lead to the development of avalanches of glowing rocks, a hybrid phenomenon between rock avalanches and pyroclastic density currents, reaching considerable distances from the eruptive centres and therefore be a serious threat for inhabited areas. The collapse conditions have been here taken in to account by means of slope stability analysis using a Limit Equilibrium Method analysis on the crater-rim of Stromboli volcano (Italy). A Stromboli, crater-rim collapses occurred frequently (at least seven events in the last two decades) and were always associated with high-level of magma within the conduits, testified by the increased eruptive activity and ground-deformation. The more frequent/intense eruptive activity produced a greater accumulation of volcaniclastic material, whereas the high level of magma increased magmastatic thrust on the deposits. Volcaniclastic material was modelled by combining the nonlinear failure envelopes as the Generalized Hoek and Brown criterion, with the addition of the failure's envelope of the rockfill-like material described by the Barton-Kjaernsli criterion, taking into consideration the presence of discontinuities within proximal, partially welded, volcaniclastic masses. In addition to the lithological and morphological characteristics of the crater terrace rim and the magmatic thrust, the effects of the explosions in terms of seismic ground acceleration and disturbance factor (D) of the volcaniclastic material were also considered here. While the ground acceleration compatible with the explosive activity of Stromboli has little influence on the stability of the crater terrace rims, the increase in D increases the proneness for failure.
Genetic Variation Among Tropical Maize Inbred Lines from NARS and CGIAR Breeding Programs
Authors: Ayesiga Stella Bigirwa , Rubaihayo Patrick , Oloka Bonny Michael , Dramadri Isaac Onziga , Edema Richard , Sserumaga Julius Pyton
Published: September 2022

The use of molecular markers allows for precise estimates of genetic diversity, which is an important parameter that enables breeders to select parental lines and designing breeding systems. We assessed the level of genetic diversity and population structure in a panel of 151 tropical maize inbred lines using 10,940 SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) markers generated through the DArTseq genotyping platform. The average gene diversity was 0.39 with expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.00 to 0.84, and a mean of 0.02. Analysis of molecular variance showed that 97% of allelic diversity was attributed to individual inbred lines within the populations while only 3% was distributed among the populations. Both neighbor-joining clustering and STRUCTURE analysis classified the inbred lines into four major groups. The crosses that involve inbred lines from most divergent subgroups are expected to generate maximum heterosis and produce wide variation. The results will be beneficial for breeders to better understand and exploit the genetic diversity available in the set of maize inbred lines we studied.
Performance analysis of inter-satellite round-robin differential-phase-shift quantum key distribution
Authors: Wang Ziqing , Malaney Robert
Published: September 2022

As the vision of global-scale unconditional information security becomes gradually realized, the importance of inter-satellite quantum communications has been rapidly increasing. The recently proposed round-robin differential-phase-shift (RRDPS) quantum key distribution (QKD) protocol has attracted much attention not only due to its potential high error tolerance, but also due to its distinct feature that the information leakage can be bounded without monitoring signal disturbances. Despite many existing implementations over fiber-optic channels, the feasibility of RRDPS QKD over an inter-satellite channel is still unknown. Moreover, despite the current advances in orbital angular momentum (OAM) encoding and temporal mode (TM) encoding, most of the existing studies on RRDPS QKD are restricted to time-bin encoding. In this work, we remedy this situation by exploring the feasibility of performing RRDPS QKD using OAM encoding and TM encoding over an inter-satellite channel. Our results indicate that OAM encoding is preferable to time-bin encoding only under the circumstances where a low dimension and a large receiver aperture are used. However, we find that TM encoding is the best encoding scheme in RRDPS QKD over an inter-satellite channel. In particular, we show that TM encoding not only leads to the best performance and the largest feasible parameter range, but also, for the first time, enables all the theoretically available advantages of an increased dimension to be realized in the context of RRDPS QKD.
Quantum tomography of entangled qubits by time-resolved single-photon counting with time-continuous measurements
Authors: Czerwinski Artur
Published: September 2022

In this article, we introduce a framework for entanglement characterization by time-resolved single-photon counting with measurement operators defined in the time domain. For a quantum system with unitary dynamics, we generate time-continuous measurements by shifting from the Schrödinger picture to the Heisenberg representation. In particular, we discuss this approach in reference to photonic tomography. To make the measurement scheme realistic, we impose timing uncertainty on photon counts along with the Poisson noise. Then, the framework is tested numerically on quantum tomography of qubits. Next, we investigate the accuracy of the model for polarization-entangled photon pairs. Entanglement detection and precision of state reconstruction are quantified by figures of merit and presented on graphs versus the amount of time uncertainty.
From satisfaction to happiness in the co-creation of value: the role of moral emotions in the Spanish tourism sector
Authors: Robina-Ramírez Rafael , Leal-Solís Ana , Medina-Merodio José Amelio , Estriegana-Valdehita Rosa
Published: September 2022

The search for happiness, understood as an inner and personal attitude that goes beyond mere satisfaction, is one of the aims of tourists’ co-creation of value. To date, few studies have analysed the importance of people’s moral principles in the co-creation of tourist value. Moral emotions play an essential role in this process. In this study, 12 tourism managers within administration, 28 hotel managers and 24 travel agencies actively participated in defining the indicators selected to measure how the co-creation of value from five Spanish towns affected customers’ happiness. Moreover, 444 tourists participated in the study. The PLS-SEM technique was used to examine the data obtained. Results show that the co-creation of value contributes to the happiness of the tourist. Of particular significance is the influence of customers’ co-creation of value on customer happiness. Additionally, the predictive capacity of the model is replicable to other tourist destinations.
The trajectory of the “Možno ja X?” construction: variation in speech acts of request in contemporary Russian
Authors: Zhamaletdinova Elmira
Published: September 2022

I explore the ongoing language change in which the impersonal modal word možno ‘can, be possible’ takes a personal clause (možno + nom) as its complement instead of the Experiencer in the Dative case (možno + dat) and the infinitival clause in the speech act of request in Contemporary Russian. The corpus-based evidence reveals that the construction možno + dat is gradually being replaced by možno + nom. I discuss various syntactic and pragmatic factors such as verb class, aspect, transitivity and politeness strategies that motivate the choice of a specific modal construction. Methods of statistical modelling, used to sort out the most significant factors contributing to the choice of construction, show that the most important factor is the date of creation of the text. I propose a scenario for the development of the možno + nom construction. First, možno began to be used as a tag-question after both infinitive and personal clauses. The requester marked by the Dative has been steadily replaced by the more agentive Subject in the Nominative case. Then, by analogy with the možno + dat construction, možno was placed at the beginning of the sentence and was reanalyzed as a constructional unit with the following structure: možno + finite clause, in which možno functions as a sentence adverb.
Multi-Object Tracking and Segmentation Via Neural Message Passing
Authors: Brasó Guillem , Cetintas Orcun , Leal-Taixé Laura
Published: September 2022

Graphs offer a natural way to formulate Multiple Object Tracking (MOT) and Multiple Object Tracking and Segmentation (MOTS) within the tracking-by-detection paradigm. However, they also introduce a major challenge for learning methods, as defining a model that can operate on such structured domain is not trivial. In this work, we exploit the classical network flow formulation of MOT to define a fully differentiable framework based on Message Passing Networks. By operating directly on the graph domain, our method can reason globally over an entire set of detections and exploit contextual features. It then jointly predicts both final solutions for the data association problem and segmentation masks for all objects in the scene while exploiting synergies between the two tasks. We achieve state-of-the-art results for both tracking and segmentation in several publicly available datasets. Our code is available at https://github.com/ocetintas/MPNTrackSeg
Coupled effect of water absorption and ion transport in hydrated latex anti-corrosion coatings
Authors: Zhou Yu Ren , Effendy Surya , Zhu Juner , Petr Michael T. , Cwalina Colin D. , Bazant Martin Z. , Yildiz Bilge , Li Ju , Short Michael P.
Published: September 2022

Water-based anti-corrosion coatings, which are environmentally-friendly replacements for organic solvent-based coatings, do not perform well enough for use in the most challenging corrosion environments. The high water absorption capacity of water-based latex films may reduce barrier performance by contributing to corrosive reactant/product transport. We seek to understand the coupled effects of water absorption and ion transport in hydrated latex films, and to propose mechanisms explaining these effects. Water absorption and ion transport in films immersed in deionized (DI) water were monitored by mass gain and electrical conductivity measurements, respectively. Despite very similar polymer compositions between films, large differences in water absorption and ion transport rates were observed and explained by percolating networks at latex particle boundaries which facilitate transport. A semi-continuum model with three-component diffusion and convection-like elastic relaxation supported the assumptions of the physical mechanisms governing water absorption and ion transport. The evidence of the coupled processes of water absorption and ion transport in hydrated latex films revealed in this study are useful for designing water-based coatings that provide high levels of corrosion resistance.
The effect of relational status on perceptions of gay disparaging humor
Authors: Weitz Bastian , Koc Yasin
Published: September 2022

A lot of popular comedians are known for their transgressive humor towards social groups, but disparagement humor is not just restricted to stages or media performances. We encounter it everywhere or perhaps use it ourselves. In this paper, we were interested in how people react to disparaging jokes (i.e., homophobic jokes) across different relational settings. Adapting Fiske’s relational models theory, we examined how status differences in relationships affect the perception of and cognition about socially disparaging jokes. In Study 1 (N = 77), we piloted seven potentially disparaging jokes about gay men in relation to how they are perceived. In Study 2 (N = 288), using one joke from Study 1, we constructed vignettes manipulating the sexual orientation of the source of the joke in the dyad (i.e., heterosexual, gay, both heterosexual) and their status differences across relational models (i.e., high, equal, and low status). We found that the joke was perceived to be less funny, more offensive, and more morally wrong, and to contain more harm intent if it came from a heterosexual person rather than a gay person. Study 3 (N = 197) used concrete status differences in relationships in terms of existing intergroup dimensions. Results showed that the joke was perceived as more offensive, less acceptable and more morally wrong when it came from a high authority source (e.g., professor rather than a student). Overall, these findings bring the first evidence to link disparagement humor with relational models and show the importance status differences in the perception of disparagement humor.
The global mining industry: corporate profile, complexity, and change
Authors: Hodge R. Anthony , Ericsson Magnus , Löf Olof , Löf Anton , Semkowich Paul
Published: September 2022

The continuation and increasing importance of mining is inevitable as society embraces both the transition to a low-carbon economy and application of circular economy concepts. However, across many parts of society, there is an ongoing sense that those who are carrying many of the costs and risks related to mining particularly over the long term (often host communities and countries) are not seeing a level of benefit that seems fair. In contrast, there is frustration within the industry that mining is not being given due credit for the importance of its role in contemporary society by those who would criticize industry practices. Over the past several decades, dozens of initiatives aimed at strengthening mining’s social and environmental performance have been mounted from both within and outside the industry. These generally depend on a “leadership-trickle-down” change model. While progress has been achieved, the society-industry trust deficit continues. The global mining community comprises a corporate core and a complex range of other surrounding interests. We suggest that some key questions regarding the nature of this community and its appetite and capacity for change have not been explored thus impeding the effectiveness of change management. We offer (1) an estimate of the number of companies that lie at the core of the global mining community: some 25,000 operating in about 140 countries (using data from the mid-2010s); (2) a profile of these companies as an initial step towards understanding the “culture” of the global mining community; and (3) a listing of additional complexities and observations important to bringing global-wide improvement to mining’s social and environmental performance. We argue that building on work to date, a fresh approach is required. We are calling for a dialog to reflect on the ideas presented here, refine them as appropriate, and develop the needed strategies and action plans. Such a process must build from a comprehensive understanding of the global mining community and its culture. It must be collaborative in nature and involve not only the range of mining companies but also with surrounding interests and governments. If this is not done, the change that is needed to align actions of all mining actors with social values will not occur and the trust deficit will remain.