bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Etiology and Pathogenesis of Graves’ Orbitopathy
Authors: Wiersinga Wilmar M.
Published: December 2023

Orbital fibroblasts (OF) expressing functional TSH receptors (TSHR) have been recognized as the target cells of the autoimmune attack in Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). Immunocompetent cells infiltrate the orbit, and present antigens (TSHR) to T-cells. Activated T-cells, cytokines and TSHR antibodies bind to OF, and induce secretion of excessive amounts of hydrophylic glycosaminoglycans (like hyaluronan) and differentiation of a subset of OF into mature fat cells (adipogenesis). The subsequent increase of extraocular muscle and orbital fat volume explain in a mechanistic way the symptoms and signs of GO. Genetic immunization of experimental animals with TSHR A-subunit (but not with IGF-1Rα) plasmid generates a fair mouse model of GO. Simultaneous activation of TSHR and IGF-1R potentiates the HA response induced by TSHR antibodies, but IGF-1R stimulating antibodies are absent and TSHR-stimulating antibodies do not recognize the IGF-1R. Crosstalk between TSHR and IGF-1R might occur by binding arrestin-β-1, which could act as a scaffold bringing both receptors closer together. One TSHR signaling pathway might be independent from the IGF-1R, whereas another TSHR pathway interacts downstream with the IGF-1R signaling pathway. Susceptibility genes for Graves’ hyperthyroidism are the same as for GO. Smoking is a preventable risk factor for GO. Recent data suggest hypercholesterolaemia also carries a risk.
Anatomy of the Orbit: Overall Skeletal and Topographical Configuration
Authors: Cornelius Carl-Peter , Gooris Peter J. J.
Published: December 2023

Objective: The intent of this chapter is to provide a systematic reappraisal of the bony anatomy of the orbit. The studies and the available literature on this topic are ever-expanding. The present knowledge shall be put into perspective.

Material and Methods: Textbook and atlas descriptions served as a starting point for a comprehensive outline of the osseous anatomy of the orbits. To deepen the insight and understanding, a small selection of recent reports on specific structures has been reviewed. For visual purposes, photographs of PMHS (post mortem human subject) specimens and illustrations were used.

Review/Results: The most distinctive feature of each orbit is the quadrangular pyramidal shape with a tetrahedron spire making up the orbital apex. The bony elements of the orbits are delineated with the sphenoid as backward foundation and starting base for the overall architectural composition. A closer look goes into the openings within the orbital precincts and reveals the subtleties and variations of the fissures, canals, grooves, foramina, notches, and fossae monitoring recent publications. The research modalities of these studies have shifted from dry skull investigations and PMHS dissections to modern imaging techniques (CT, MRI, CBCT) within defined living populations facilitating the analysis of hidden spaces or hard-to-reach structures in a non-destructive manner. Additional advantages of imaging include quantification and a detailed morphometric evaluation in the spirit of computational anatomy.

Conclusion: In essence, the combination of traditional anatomic knowledge and the understanding of the tremendous complexity of variations characterized in new publications demands for a patient-specific diagnostic workup as exemplified in this book. As a matter of fact, however it is more likely to recognize and grasp features that one knows or knows about from previous intensive learning.
Orbital Cellulitis as a Result of Spread of Odontogenic Infection
Authors: Gooris Peter J. J. , Mensink Gertjan , Noorlag Rob , Bergsma J. Eelco
Published: December 2023

A case is reported of a female patient who presented with a fulminant spread of an infection of odontogenic origin. The infection extended into the orbit where orbital abscess formation developed which resulted in loss of the affected globe.

Different routes of spread of an infection of the dentition, per continuitatem and by venous facial vasculature are discussed.
The Promised Land of Inclusive Peace: NGO Mediators as Norm Entrepreneurs of Inclusion
Authors: Palmiano Federer Julia
Published: December 2023

In this chapter, I apply the concept of “normative agency” to NGO mediators promoting one of the salient and “buzziest” norms (Hellmüller, Conflict Intervention and Transformation: Theory and Practice. Rowman & Littlefield International, 2019) in contemporary peace mediation: the normative imperative of “inclusive peace.” First, I discuss how “inclusivity” has become a central topic of debate in literature on mediation. Second, through harnessing different conceptual approaches, I break down a mediator’s normative agency by inductively assessing the ability with which (1) NGO mediators can interpret norms in the normative frameworks outlined by their mandate-givers and frame them in certain ways to the negotiating parties, (2) NGO mediators engage in a set of practices that intentionally promote norms (their interpretation) and (3) NGO mediators wield the power to frame discourses and conduct these practices in the first place. Third, I discuss the limits of their normative agency and the risks of successful norm localization, as counterintuitive as that sounds. Multiple working definitions of inclusion being promoted by several NGO mediators working with negotiating parties with varying degrees of coordination and coherence may risk multiple interpretations of the norm, while also giving “recipients” the opportunity to reinterpret or redefine the norm in a way that appeals most to them.
Conclusion: Should NGO Mediators Promote Norms?
Authors: Palmiano Federer Julia
Published: December 2023

This concluding chapter synthesizes the main findings of the book and suggests some probing questions for future research agendas and larger soul-searching questions for both scholars and practitioners of peace mediation. While the book illustrates how NGO mediators do possess the agency to act as norm entrepreneurs of inclusion in mediation processes, given the unintended negative outcomes of the localization of inclusivity, it suggests that the assumption that mediators should promote liberal (and Western-centric) norms at all should be re-examined in a critical light. Yet the growth of the normative framework shows no signs of abating, with clauses in a growing number of ceasefire and peace agreements (for instance in South Sudan or Colombia) explicitly mentioning international norms such as gender equality and inclusivity. While widespread debate exists between mediation practitioners, the voices of national actors themselves often fall to the wayside. As armed conflicts become more violent and protracted and peace processes become more complex, the need to understand the role norms play in mediation processes remains imperative.
Surficial Geology and Geomorphology of the North Slide, Thompson River Valley, British Columbia, Canada: Application of Fundamental Geoscience Information to Interpretations of Geospatial Monitoring Results
Authors: Huntley David , Rotheram-Clarke Drew , Sattler Kelvin , Elwood David
Published: December 2023

Our study focuses on a slow-moving landslide in the Thompson River valley, south-central British Columbia, Canada, that has posed a hazard to the national railway transportation corridor since 1880. Real-time kinematic global navigation satellite systems, unoccupied aerial vehicles, and satellite synthetic aperture radar interferometry time-series show significant displacement encroaching on railway infrastructure. In this paper, geospatial relationships between landslide distribution and specific terrain features, and the environmental conditions triggering instability are determined from field-based geological observations. We describe how earth material stratigraphy, textures, and penetrative planar structures are important controls on sub-surface drainage, and how these factors influence the style, timing, and rate of slope displacement. West of the railway tracks, slide scarps extend across the toe slope, corresponding to narrow zones of high displacement, presence of perennial springs and seepage, and cutbank erosion along the river channel. Fluvial incision exposes weak, failure-prone units at the base of the fill sequence, and with ongoing channel migration promotes instability by altering landslide toe geometry. Currently, the zone of potential displacement does not extend upslope into the inactive (1880) main slide body, east of the tracks. Seasonal variations in hydrogeological conditions influence the spatial and temporal patterns of surface water and groundwater flow, in turn controlling the distribution of translational-rotational displacement of slide blocks, and rates of movement on reactivated shear surfaces that extend under Thompson River. Slope failure occurs along weak, sub-horizontal shear zones within poorly drained glaciolacustrine clay and silt units, overlain by rapidly drained glaciofluvial outwash gravel, and imperfectly drained till diamicton. River levels exert a complex control on landslide stability, influencing hydraulic gradients within the basal glaciolacustrine unit, particularly along rupture surfaces within it. Ground displacement occurs while river levels are at their lowest between February and March, before peak flows in June, or after July until December while storm-fed river levels progressively lower to the next winter minimum. Groundwater levels remain elevated in the slide body throughout the year, contained in porous gravel and sand beds, and along brittle fractures and sub-horizonal shear zones in silt-clay varve beds. Geospatial and temporal change-detection monitoring of active landslides and at-risk infrastructure, when benchmarked with terrain and hydrogeological observations, is a cost-effective hazard management practice that provides important geoscience information to help develop appropriate early warning, mitigation, adaptation, and risk reduction measures.
Climate Change as Modifier of Landslide Susceptibility: Case Study in Davao Oriental, Philippines
Authors: Beroya-Eitner Mary Antonette A. , Vicente May Celine T. M. , Dado Julie Mae B. , Dimain Marion Roel S. , Maquiling Joel T. , Cruz Faye Abigail T.
Published: December 2023

Rainfall-induced landslides are widely occurring phenomena that cause billions of US dollars annually in damage, and thousands of deaths globally. The Philippines, due to its climate, geographic location and topography, is among those countries most prone to the hazard. The strong climatic warming trend over the past decades has affected the rainfall pattern in the country, thus affecting the landslide distribution as well. This study aims to determine how the rainfall in our study area, Davao Oriental, is expected to change in the future in response to climate warming and how such a change may affect the landslide susceptibility pattern in the province. Results show that contrary to the general perception of increased landslide susceptibility due to a warming climate, a decreased susceptibility is anticipated in the study area. Despite this decrease, however, there remains high to very high landslide hazard for the northern part of the province well into the future, and risk reduction work is still needed in this area. Moreover, while the projected decrease in rainfall and landslide susceptibility is a positive sign concerning landslide hazard management, such a drying trend may spawn other hazards, including drought and water shortage, underscoring the need for a multi-hazard assessment that takes into account the complex interrelationships between different hazards. We deem the results of the study to be very important for better prioritization and more efficient allocation of resources for disaster risk management and reduction. The methodology developed for this study can be applied to other parts of the Philippines, and other regions as well.
Rock Avalanches in the Tibetan Plateau of China
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Cheng Qiangong , Lin Qiwen , Shi Anwen , Ming Jie , Feng Zhiyi , Song Zhang
Published: December 2023

China is a country with high mountainous areas widely distributed, which is characterized by high reliefs, intensive tectonic activity, fragile ecological environments, etc. Under such particular background, rock avalanches, as one of the most threatening geological disasters in the high mountainous regions, have drawn much scientific interest because of their sudden occurrence, huge volumes (>106 m3), high velocities (>20 m/s), and extremely low Fahrböschung (typically 0.1 to 0.3) with destructive disasters caused. Focusing on the Tibetan Plateau of China, spatial distribution of rock avalanches in its certain area was conducted, hoping to provide insights into the controlling factors of rock avalanches’ formation. Furthermore, several typical rock avalanches were investigated in detail based on remote sensing analysis, mapping of fixed wing unmanned aerial vehicle and detailed field investigations. It is reached that toreva blocks, transverse and longitudinal ridges, ridges separated by conjugate troughs, and hummocks are common and widely distributed surficial landforms in rock avalanche deposits, which usually display in a clear sequential distribution. In the cross-section, a series of internal sedimentary structures, including jigsaw structures, inner shear zones, diapiric structures, convoluted laminations, faults, etc., were identified. Based on these detailed geological features, the possible emplacement processes and mechanisms are discussed to provide insights into the extremely high mobility of rock avalanches.
Physically-Based Regional Landslide Forecasting Modelling: Model Set-up and Validation
Authors: Tofani Veronica , Masi Elena Benedetta , Rossi Guglielmo
Published: December 2023

In this work, the HIgh REsolution Slope Stability Simulator (HIRESSS) model was applied to predict the occurrence of shallow landslides on a regional scale. HIRESSS is a physically based distributed slope stability simulator for analyzing the occurrence of shallow landslides during a rainfall event. The modeling software consists of two parts: hydrological and a geotechnical. The hydrological model is based on an analytical solution of an approximated form of the Richards equation, while the geotechnical stability model is based on an infinite slope model that accounts for unsaturated soil conditions. The model was applied in the Aosta Valley region, located in the northwest of the Alpine chain. The Aosta Valley is highly susceptible to landslides, especially shallow, rapid landslides and rockfalls. The geotechnical and hydrological characteristics of the slopes were recorded in two field measurement campaigns at 12 measurement points. To account for the effects of vegetation on landslides the soil reinforcement due to the presence of roots was also taken into account. The model was applied in back analysis for an event that affected the Aosta Valley in 2009, triggering several fast shallow landslides. In this work the model setup and the validation of the model outcomes are described.
Tensor reduction of loop integrals
Authors: Anastasiou Charalampos , Karlen Julia , Vicini Matilde
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The computational cost associated with reducing tensor integrals to scalar integrals using the Passarino-Veltman method is dominated by the diagonalisation of large systems of equations. These systems of equations are sized according to the number of independent tensor elements that can be constructed using the metric and external momenta. In this article, we present a closed-form solution of this diagonalisation problem in arbitrary tensor integrals. We employ a basis of tensors whose building blocks are the external momentum vectors and a metric tensor transverse to the space of external momenta. The scalar integral coefficients of the basis tensors are obtained by mapping the basis elements to the elements of an orthogonal dual basis. This mapping is succinctly expressed through a formula that resembles the ordering of operators in Wick’s theorem.

Finally, we provide examples demonstrating the application of our tensor reduction formula to Feynman diagrams in QCD 2 → 2 scattering processes, specifically up to three loops.
The muon parton distribution functions
Authors: Frixione S. , Stagnitto G.
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We compute the Parton Distribution Functions (PDFs) of the unpolarised muon for the leptons, the photon, the light quarks, and the gluon. We discuss in detail the issues stemming from the necessity of evaluating the strong coupling constant at scales of the order of the typical hadron mass, and compare our novel approach with those currently available in the literature. While we restrict our phenomenological results to be leading-logarithmic accurate, we set up our formalism in a way that renders it straightforward to achieve next-to-leading logarithmic accuracy in the QED, QCD, and mixed QED×QCD contributions.
An adjoint-based methodology for calculating manufacturing tolerances for natural laminar flow airfoils susceptible to smooth surface waviness
Authors: Moniripiri Mohammad , Brito Pedro P. C. , Cavalieri André V. G. , Sêcco Ney R. , Hanifi Ardeshir
Published: December 2023

An adjoint-based method is presented for determining manufacturing tolerances for aerodynamic surfaces with natural laminar flow subjected to wavy excrescences. The growth of convective unstable disturbances is computed by solving Euler, boundary layer, and parabolized stability equations. The gradient of the kinetic energy of disturbances in the boundary layer (E) with respect to surface grid points is calculated by solving adjoints of the governing equations. The accuracy of approximations of $$\Delta E$$

Δ
E

, using gradients obtained from adjoint, is investigated for several waviness heights. It is also shown how second-order derivatives increase the accuracy of approximations of $$\Delta E$$

Δ
E

when surface deformations are large. Then, for specific flight conditions, using the steepest ascent and the sequential least squares programming methodologies, the waviness profile with minimum $$L2-$$

L
2
-

norm that causes a specific increase in the maximum value of N- factor, $$\Delta N$$

Δ
N

, is found. Finally, numerical tests are performed using the NLF(2)-0415 airfoil to specify tolerance levels for $$\Delta {N}$$

Δ
N

up to 2.0 for different flight conditions. Most simulations are carried out for a Mach number and angle of attack equal to 0.5 and $$1.25^{\circ }$$

1
.

25
∘

, respectively, and with Reynolds numbers between $$9\times 10^6$$

9
×

10
6

and $$15\times 10^6$$

15
×

10
6

and for waviness profiles with different ranges of wavelengths. Finally, some additional studies are presented for different angles of attack and Mach numbers to show their effects on the computed tolerances.

Graphic abstract
Over ten-year follow-up results of a prospective and consecutive series of primary total hip arthroplasty with an original cementless total hip prosthesis
Authors: Schwartz Claude , Bussiere Christophe , Chalencon François , Cladiere Franck , Forgeois Philippe , Fornasieri Christophe
Published: December 2023

Purpose

High survival rates up to ten  years have been reported for non-cemented hip replacements. Publications beyond ten years have more diverse conclusions. To study the long-term survival of uncemented total hip replacement (THR), we examined a series of 125 THR, all with a minimum follow-up of ten  years.

Methods

This is a prospective study of 203 patients operated for coxarthrosis between 2007 and 2011, by six senior surgeons. The original ellipsoidal stem and the impacted acetabulum were systematically cementless; the acetabulum had either a fixed ceramic or polyethylene insert, or a dual-mobility insert. At the date of the follow-up check, 44 patients were deceased and 34 patients were lost to follow-up. This left 125 complete files for our study.

Results

They were a revision of the cup in four cases and a revision of the femoral stem in three cases (3.4%). The Kaplan–Meier cumulative survival rate of the THR, by considering revision for any reason as endpoint, at ten  years (120 months) is estimated at 96.6% (CI 92.7–98.7). Radiologically, on 86 analyses (68.8%) at ten  years and more reported, no significant evolution of the appearance of the cancellous bone around the acetabular cup was noted, nor any ossification. Some periprosthetic osteogenesis reactions were noted around the 1/3 distal but no periprosthetic edging.

Conclusion

In this minimum ten-year follow-up study, a cementless THR with a straight ellipsoidal cementless stem and a press-fit cup provides excellent implant survival and high patient satisfaction. (Clinically felt minimal difference.)
Ein offenes transtheoretisches Therapie- und Trainingsmodell (4TM)
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang , Schwartz Brian , Deisenhofer Anne-Kathrina , Hehlmann Miriam I. , Eberhardt Steffen T. , Bommer Jana , Vehlen Antonia , Edelbluth Susanne , Poster Kaitlyn , Moggia Danilo , Weinmann-Lutz Birgit , Rubel Julian A. , Schaffrath Jana
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund

In diesem Beitrag werden die konzeptionellen Grundlagen sowie die klinischen Implikationen eines forschungsbasiertentranstheoretischenTherapie- undTrainingsmodells (4TM) vorgestellt; dieses kann das Fundament für eine zukünftige evidenzbasierte und personalisierte Psychotherapiepraxis sowie Aus- und Weiterbildung in der Psychotherapie darstellen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ableitung und Darstellung eines wissenschaftlich basierten, offenen transtheoretischen Rahmenmodells für die Psychotherapiepraxis sowie Aus- und Weiterbildung in der Psychotherapie.

Methode

Das Modell versucht, Erkenntnisse aus der Psychotherapieforschung zu differenziellen Behandlungsergebnissen, der Feedback-Forschung, der Forschung zu Therapeutenunterschieden sowie der Forschung zu Veränderungsprozessen und modernen technischen Entwicklungen in ein offenes konzeptionelles Rahmenmodell für die klinische Praxis und Ausbildung zusammenzuführen.

Ergebnisse

Das Modell basiert auf Interventionen, die bei Patient:innen Veränderungsprozesse auf Verhaltens-, kognitiver, emotionaler, motivationsbezogener, zwischenmenschlicher und systemischer/soziokultureller Ebene auslösen. Das 4TM umfasst außerdem ein datenbasiertes Entscheidungs- und Rückmeldesystem namens Trier Therapie Navigator (TTN).

Diskussion

Es werden wichtige Probleme einer rein schulenbasierten Ausrichtung der Psychotherapie in Deutschland diskutiert und diese dem offenen Rahmen eines forschungs-, rückmeldungs- und prozessorientierten Konzepts als Leitfaden für transtheoretische Interventionen gegenübergestellt. Dieses Konzept kann eine Orientierung für eine wissenschaftsbasierte Psychotherapie, unter Berücksichtigung traditioneller sowie neuer klinischer Entwicklungen und Erkenntnisse aus der Psychotherapieforschung, bieten. Es kann sowohl an unterschiedliche Patientenpopulationen als auch kultursensitiv angepasst werden.
Sleep quality, sleep duration, and sleep disturbances among hospital night workers: a prospective cohort study
Authors: van Elk Fleur , Loef Bette , Proper Karin I. , Burdorf Alex , Robroek Suzan J. W. , Oude Hengel Karen M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to assess among hospital night workers (i) to what extent sleep quality, sleep duration and sleep disturbances overlap, and (ii) associations between sociodemographic factors, lifestyle factors and work characteristics and sleep components.

Methods

Data were used from 467 hospital night workers participating in the Klokwerk + study, a prospective cohort study with two measurements. Sleep quality was measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, sleep duration and sleep disturbances were measured by the Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale. The overlap between the three sleep measures was visualized with a Venn diagram and the proportions of overlap was calculated. Associations between independent variables (sociodemographic factors, lifestyle factors and work characteristics) and the three sleep outcomes were estimated using between–within Poisson regression models.

Results

About 50% of the hospital night workers had at least one poor sleep outcome. Overlap in poor sleep outcomes was apparent for 36.8% of these workers, while the majority had a poor outcome in one of the sleep components only (63.1%). Former smoking had a significant association with poor sleep quality. For most independent variables no associations with poor sleep outcomes were observed.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that sleep quality, sleep duration and sleep disturbances are separate entities and should be studied separately. Lifestyle factors and work characteristics were generally not associated with poor sleep. Since these factors can have an acute effect on sleep, future research should consider ecological momentary assessment to examine how exposure and outcomes (co)vary within-persons, over time, and across contexts.

Trial registration Netherlands Trial Register trial number NL56022.041.16.
Process and Implementation Elements of Measurement Feedback Systems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rognstad Kristian , Engell Thomas , Fjermestad Krister , Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Kjøbli John
Published: December 2023

Measurement feedback systems (MFS) can help guide treatment and improve clinical outcomes. Studies of MFS are heterogeneous both in execution and results, and the effects of MFS seem restricted by limited attention to process and implementation elements and by limited adoption by health professionals. The current systematic review mapped the use of process and implementation elements in MFS studies. An overview of therapists’ use of and attitudes toward MFS is provided. Three-level meta-analyses were used to test theoretically informed process and implementation elements as moderators of the effects of MFS. Hypotheses and general propositions from Clinical Performance Feedback Intervention Theory (CP-FIT) were used to organize the elements of the studies and were used as moderator variables. Previous studies on MFS interventions have had a limited focus on implementation efforts and process elements that may increase the effects of MFS and their use among therapists. Efforts have sparsely been made to reduce barriers to MFS use, and several studies have reported limited engagement with MFS among therapists. Therapists’ attitudes toward MFS, feedback, or standardized measures were heterogeneously reported, making data synthesis challenging. Identified process and implementation elements were not significantly associated with effect sizes in the studies and the results did not support the propositions of CP-FIT. The lack of statistically significant associations may be due to limited reporting of details about process and implementation aspects. More research designed to test hypotheses regarding process and implementation elements is needed to improve the use and effects of MFS. Future studies should aspire to report findings in a manner that allows for an understanding of the implementation process and therapists’ adoption of these systems.
Scalable enforcement of geometric non-interference constraints for gradient-based optimization
Authors: Dunn Ryan C. , Joshy Anugrah Jo , Lin Jui-Te , Girerd Cédric , Morimoto Tania K. , Hwang John T.
Published: December 2023

Many design optimization problems include constraints to prevent intersection of the geometric shape being optimized with other objects or with domain boundaries. When applying gradient-based optimization to such problems, the constraint function must provide an accurate representation of the domain boundary and be smooth, amenable to numerical differentiation, and fast-to-evaluate for a large number of points. We propose the use of tensor-product B-splines to construct an efficient-to-evaluate level set function that locally approximates the signed distance function for representing geometric non-interference constraints. Adapting ideas from the surface reconstruction methods, we formulate an energy minimization problem to compute the B-spline control points that define the level set function given an oriented point cloud sampled over a geometric shape. Unlike previous explicit non-interference constraint formulations, our method requires an initial setup operation, but results in a more efficient-to-evaluate and scalable representation of geometric non-interference constraints. This paper presents the results of accuracy and scaling studies performed on our formulation. We demonstrate our method by solving a medical robot design optimization problem with non-interference constraints. We achieve constraint evaluation times on the order of $$10^{-6}$$

10

-
6

seconds per point on a modern desktop workstation, and a maximum on-surface error of less than 1.0% of the minimum bounding box diagonal for all examples studied. Overall, our method provides an effective formulation for non-interference constraint enforcement with high computational efficiency for gradient-based design optimization problems whose solutions require at least hundreds of evaluations of constraints and their derivatives.
Nanoscale Refractive Index Sensor Based on an MIM Waveguide Coupled to U-Shaped Ring Resonator with Three Stubs for Alcohol Solution Concentration Detection
Authors: Cao Yuhao , Yan Shubin , Liu Feng , Wang Jin , Chang Shuwen , Liu Guang , Zhang Wei , Wu Taiquan , Ren Yifeng
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a nano refractive index sensor consisting of a metal–insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide and a U-shaped ring resonator with three stubs (URRS) resonator is proposed. The transmittance performance of the sensor was theoretically analyzed using the finite element method (FEM). The effects of refractive index and different structural geometrical parameters on the sensor performance were evaluated. The optimal sensitivity of the designed refractive index sensor structure is 2900 nm/RIU, and the figure of merit (FOM) is 55.76. The suggested sensor shows promising potential for utilization in the study of alcohol solution concentration detection. In addition, we applied this sensor structure in the field of alcohol solution concentration detection, and its test results were good with a sensitivity up to 112.
Investigating the relationship between self-regulated learning, metacognition, and executive functions by focusing on academic transition phases: a systematic review
Authors: Dörrenbächer-Ulrich Laura , Dilhuit Sabrina , Perels Franziska
Published: December 2023

The importance of self-regulated learning (SRL) for academic learning and achievement is already well established. In terms of developing a comprehensive understanding of SRL, executive functions (EFs), which are seen as an important influential factor for learning and goal-oriented behavior, should be taken into consideration. Some authors have linked SRL and EF via metacognition (MC), which forms a fundamental component of SRL, and like EF, represents higher-level cognitive processes. Therefore, this systematic review searched education and psychology databases to determine the natural development and current state of research on the three constructs. Academic transitional periods were brought into focus because of their influence on learners’ well-being and academic achievement. An evaluation of 30 publications indicated that strong development of simple EFs occurs before the transition from preschool to primary school. Moreover, there is a decrease in the motivational component of SRL and the use of metacognitive SRL strategies during the transition from primary to secondary education but an increase in metacognitive awareness. Simple as well as complex EFs also increase during this transition, with a later developmental peak for complex EF. The transition from secondary to tertiary education is accompanied by positive developments in the cognitive and metacognitive components of SRL, with small increases for simple EFs, and larger increases for complex EFs. In conclusion, the findings suggest there is an early developmental maximum for EFs compared to SRL and MC, which supports the theory that EFs are the foundation for SRL and MC.
What do their footprints tell us? Many questions and some answers about the life of non-avian dinosaurs
Authors: Díaz-Martínez Ignacio , Citton Paolo , Castanera Diego
Published: December 2023

Dinosaur tracks are considerably common in the fossil record and were described from many areas in the world. They provide a live picture of dinosaur behaviour and offer valuable data about different aspects of the trackmaker paleobiology. The dinosaur ichnological record allows gain information about autopod anatomy, functional adaptations, stance and gaits with which dinosaurs moved. This information, which is often difficult to obtain from the body-fossil record alone, allows making inferences not only concerning the single individuals who produced the footprints, but also within an evolutionary context. Footprints provide also evidences about the abilities that dinosaurs had to swim, run or live with certain pathologies. They also allowed inferring how they move in herds or even made courtship rituals. The study of tracks also enables the reconstruction of paleocommunities including predator–prey interaction. On the other hand, footprints are useful paleoenvironmental indicators, informing about moisture content, bathymetry, paleocurrents, subaqueous substrates, zonations in lacustrine margins, etc. In addition, it has been proposed that dinosaur track assemblages can be related to certain facies (ichnofacies), in order to refine paleoenvironmental reconstructions. Dinosaur tracks can sometimes be in the shadow with respect to the skeletal record. However, the data obtained from the ichnological record complements and completes the knowledge we have about the life of dinosaurs, even showing previously unknown aspects. This work is an overview of the information we can obtain from the study of non-avian dinosaur footprints, trying to answer some questions about their life.
THE INFLUENCE OF PLANT SPECIES AND PRETREATMENT ON THE 14C AGE OF CAREX-DOMINATED PEAT PLANTS OF A PEAT CORE FROM JINCHUAN MIRE, NE CHINA
Authors: Misra Satabdi , Kashyap Sneha , Chou Chun-Yen , Chang Tingyi , Li Hong-Chun , Ning Xiaoyan , Sun Jing-Jing , Wang Jie , Zhao Meixun
Published: December 2023

The comparisons among 126 14C dates of Carex samples including separated leaf and root parts with acid (A)-treatment and acid-base-acid (ABA)-treatment, and 48 published 14C dates of bulk peat plants on a 92-cm core from Jinchuan Mire in NE China, indicate old carbon influence (OCI) on the 14C dates. The OCI varies with plant species, pretreatment and peat depth. In vascular peat plants such as Carex, humin fractions (remains after ABA treatment) and humic acids are representative of the original plant precursor, while fulvic acids are regarded as the secondary mobile product which should be removed for 14C dating. ABA- treatment removes both fulvic acids and humic acids, whereas A-treatment gets rid of only fulvic acids. Carex roots uptake more dissolved CO2 in peat water. Carex leaves may use more CO2 (involving degassing CO2) above the peat surface. By removing humic acids throughout ABA treatment, the OCI may vary differently over depth (time). ABA treatment cannot eliminate the fixed OCI in humin fractions of vascular peat plants, instead, this treatment may enhance OCI by removing humic acid which may represent the true age of the plants. In addition, Bacon model results on this core could not show rapid changes in accumulation rate.
A simple model for internal transport barrier induced by fishbone in tokamak plasmas
Authors: Liu Zhaoyang , Fu Guoyong
Published: December 2023

Fishbone bursts have been observed to strongly correlate to internal transport barrier (ITB) formation in a number of tokamak devices. A simple model incorporating the fishbone dynamics and ion pressure gradient evolution is proposed in order to investigate the key physics parameters assisting the triggering of ITB. The time evolution of fishbone is described by the well-known predator–prey model. For each burst cycle, the energetic particles (EPs) resonantly interact with fishbone and are radially expelled from inner region leading to a radial current. A compensating bulk plasma return current and, hence, poloidal flow can be induced if the fishbone cycle frequency is greater than the poloidal flow damping rate. When the shear of the poloidal flow exceeds a critical value, the turbulent fluctuations are suppressed and the bulk ion pressure gradient transits to the high-confinement state. It is shown that this process is only sensitive to the deposition rate of the trapped EPs within the$q=1$surface, but not sensitive to other parameters. A quantitative formula for the shearing rate of poloidal flow induced by fishbone bursts is derived and verified numerically.
Sino-Portuguese Trafficking of Children during the Ming Dynasty
Authors: Fujitani James
Published: December 2023

In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the Portuguese purchased large numbers of people in China as slaves. Many of those people were children. This article considers where those children came from and why they were sold to the Portuguese. During the late Ming period, as social inequality intensified, poor farmers increasingly had to sell themselves and their offspring to rich landowners as bonded labourers. However, some farmers chose to break the law and sell to foreigners instead. Other farmers became bandits, and kidnapped other people's children to sell into bondage. Both of these criminal trends provided the Portuguese with young slaves.
An ARGO and XBT Observing System for the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and Meridional Heat Transport (AXMOC) at 22.5°S
Authors: Pita I. , Goes M. , Volkov D. L. , Dong S. , Goni G. , Cirano M.
Published: December 2023

Changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and associated Meridional Heat Transport (MHT) can affect climate and weather patterns, regional sea levels, and ecosystems. Direct observations of the AMOC are still limited, particularly in the South Atlantic. This study establishes a cost‐effective trans‐basin section to estimate for the first time the AMOC and MHT at 22.5°S, using only sustained ocean observations. For this, an optimal mapping method that minimizes the difference between surface in situ dynamic height and satellite altimetry was developed to retrieve monthly temperature and salinity profiles from Argo and XBT data along the 22.5°S section. The mean states, as well as the interannual and seasonal changes of the obtained AMOC and MHT were compared with other products. The mean AMOC and MHT for 22.5°S are 16.3 ± 3.2 Sv and 0.7 ± 0.2 PW, respectively, showing stronger transports during austral fall/winter and weaker in spring. The high‐density XBT data available at the western boundary were vital for capturing the highly variable Brazil Current (BC), whose mean and variability was improved compared to other products. At 22.5°S, the North Atlantic Deep Water is divided into two cores that flow along both the western and the eastern boundaries near 2,500 m depth. Our results (a) suggest a greater influence of the western boundary current system on the AMOC variability at 22.5°S, (b) highlight the importance of high‐density in situ data for AMOC estimates, and (c) contribute to a better understanding of the AMOC and MHT variability in the South Atlantic.
Intense Tropical Cyclones in the Western North Pacific Under Global Warming: A Dynamical Downscaling Approach
Authors: Chih Cheng‐Hsiang , Wu Chun‐Chieh , Huang Yi‐Hsuan , Li Yi‐Chen , Shen Li‐Zhi , Hsu Huang‐Hsiung , Liang Hsin‐Chien
Published: December 2023

This study aims to assess the global warming's impact on intense tropical cyclones (TCs) over the western North Pacific (WNP) through dynamical downscaling. 379 and 179 TCs reaching Category 1 in the High‐Resolution Atmospheric Model (HiRAM) are downscaled for use in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model at 5‐km horizontal resolution in the current climate (1979–2015) and for use in the Representative Concentration Pathways 8.5 (RCP8.5) in the future climate (2074–2100) scenarios, respectively. Inclusion of the downscaling simulations by WRF helps better reproduce the probability distribution of the TC's lifetime maximum intensity (LMI). In the warmer climate, the LMI of very intense TCs in WNP are projected to be stronger. Such an increase in intensity is statistically significant, and can be primarily explained by enhanced intensification rate. Meanwhile, TCs among the top 5% in LMI can reach higher intensities which cannot be attained in the current climate. After downscaling, the probability of WNP TCs reaching Category 4–5 increases by 6.5 percentage points in the late 21st century. This increase is 1.7 percentage points higher than the increase projected exclusively by HiRAM. Moreover, for TCs among the top 5% in LMI, a 233‐km and 300‐km westward shift of LMI locations is identified in the late 21st century for simulations with and without the downscaling approach, respectively. Both results suggest that very intense TCs would pose a higher threat to the WNP lands under global warming, as they become substantially stronger, and as their LMI locations migrate toward the coast.
PDO and AMO Modulation of the ENSO–Asian Summer Monsoon Teleconnection During the Last Millennium
Authors: Wang Na , Dee Sylvia , Hu Jun , Steiger Nathan , Thirumalai Kaustubh
Published: December 2023

Observations show that the teleconnection between the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) is non‐stationary. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood due to inadequate availability of reliable, long‐term observations. This study uses two state‐of‐the‐art data assimilation‐based reconstructions of last millennium climate to examine changes in the ENSO–ASM teleconnection; we investigate how modes of (multi‐)decadal climate variability (namely, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, PDO, and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, AMO) modulate the ENSO–ASM relationship. Our analyses reveal that the PDO exerts a more pronounced impact on ASM variability than the AMO. By comparing different linear regression models, we find that including the PDO in addition to ENSO cycles can improve prediction of the ASM, especially for the Indian summer monsoon. In particular, dry (wet) anomalies caused by El Niño (La Niña) over India become enhanced during the positive (negative) PDO phases due to a compounding effect. However, composite differences in the ENSO–ASM relationship between positive and negative phases of the PDO and AMO are not statistically significant. A significant influence of the PDO/AMO on the ENSO–ASM relationship occurred only over a limited period within the last millennium. By leveraging the long‐term paleoclimate reconstructions, we document and interrogate the non‐stationary nature of the PDO and AMO in modulating the ENSO–ASM relationship.
Influence of Inherited Brittle Fabrics on Continental Rifting: Insights From Centrifuge Experimental Modeling and Application to the East African Rift System
Authors: Zou Yaoyao , Maestrelli Daniele , Corti Giacomo , Del Ventisette Chiara , Wang Liang , Shen Chuanbo
Published: December 2023

The presence of pre‐existing fabrics at all lithospheric scales has been proven to be of primary importance in controlling the evolution of continental rifts. Indeed, observations from natural examples show that even in conditions of orthogonal rifting, when extension should result in simple fault patterns dominated by normal faults orthogonal to extension vectors, inherited fabrics induce complex arrangements of differently‐oriented extension‐related structures. This paper explored the influence of inherited fabrics on rift‐related structures by using a series of analog models deformed in a centrifuge. The models reproduced a brittle‐ductile crustal system and considered the presence of pre‐existing discrete fabrics in the brittle crust in conditions of orthogonal narrow rifting. These fabrics were reproduced by cutting the brittle layer at different orientations with respect to the extension direction. Modeling shows pre‐existing fabrics have a significant influence on rift‐related faults, provided that the angle between inherited fabrics and the rift trend is less than 45°. In these conditions, fabrics cause prominent segmentation of rift‐related faults and induce the development of isolated depocenters. Pre‐existing fabrics strongly influence the geometry of extension‐related structures, resulting in curved fault patterns and en‐echelon arrangement of oblique faults. These findings provide insights into the development of continental rift systems in nature: our modeling shows indeed significant similarities (i.e., peculiar fault architecture and geometries) with the faults in different sectors of the East African Rift System (e.g., the Magadi and Bogoria basin, Kenya Rift), testifying that reactivation of inherited fabrics is a paramount process in shaping continental rifts.
Neuroimaging and artificial intelligence for assessment of chronic painful temporomandibular disorders—a comprehensive review
Authors: Shrivastava Mayank , Ye Liang
Published: December 2023

Chronic Painful Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are challenging to diagnose and manage due to their complexity and lack of understanding of brain mechanism. In the past few decades’ neural mechanisms of pain regulation and perception have been clarified by neuroimaging research. Advances in the neuroimaging have bridged the gap between brain activity and the subjective experience of pain. Neuroimaging has also made strides toward separating the neural mechanisms underlying the chronic painful TMD. Recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming various sectors by automating tasks that previously required humans’ intelligence to complete. AI has started to contribute to the recognition, assessment, and understanding of painful TMD. The application of AI and neuroimaging in understanding the pathophysiology and diagnosis of chronic painful TMD are still in its early stages. The objective of the present review is to identify the contemporary neuroimaging approaches such as structural, functional, and molecular techniques that have been used to investigate the brain of chronic painful TMD individuals. Furthermore, this review guides practitioners on relevant aspects of AI and how AI and neuroimaging methods can revolutionize our understanding on the mechanisms of painful TMD and aid in both diagnosis and management to enhance patient outcomes.
De novo development of small cyclic peptides that are orally bioavailable
Authors: Merz Manuel L. , Habeshian Sevan , Li Bo , David Jean-Alexandre G. L. , Nielsen Alexander L. , Ji Xinjian , Il Khwildy Khaled , Duany Benitez Maury M. , Phothirath Phoukham , Heinis Christian
Published: December 2023

Cyclic peptides can bind challenging disease targets with high affinity and specificity, offering enormous opportunities for addressing unmet medical needs. However, as with biological drugs, most cyclic peptides cannot be applied orally because they are rapidly digested and/or display low absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, hampering their development as therapeutics. In this study, we developed a combinatorial synthesis and screening approach based on sequential cyclization and one-pot peptide acylation and screening, with the possibility of simultaneously interrogating activity and permeability. In a proof of concept, we synthesized a library of 8,448 cyclic peptides and screened them against the disease target thrombin. Our workflow allowed multiple iterative cycles of library synthesis and yielded cyclic peptides with nanomolar affinities, high stabilities and an oral bioavailability (%F) as high as 18% in rats. This method for generating orally available peptides is general and provides a promising push toward unlocking the full potential of peptides as therapeutics.