bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saúde mental dos profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia da Covid-19
Authors: Ongaro Juliana Dal , Lanes Taís Carpes , Barcellos Flávia Alves Branco , Dal Pai Daiane , Tavares Juliana Petri , Magnago Tânia Solange Bosi de Souza
Published: March 2022

Este estudo objetivou identificar as produções científicas sobre a saúde mental dos profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia da Covid-19. Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa da literatura, do tipo descritivo e exploratório, realizada em janeiro de 2021 nas bases SciVerse Scopus, Medline (via National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health – PubMed), e no portal da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde na base da Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde Foram encontradas 1379 produções, destas, 31 compuseram o corpus do estudo. Identificou-se a China (n=12; 38,7%) como o país de maior publicação e pesquisa sobre a saúde mental diante da pandemia pela Covid-19. Dentre os vários agravos à saúde, os sintomas depressivos e de ansiedade foram os mais presentes nas produções. A insônia e a fadiga também foram identificadas como fatores significativos nos profissionais de saúde. A resiliência dos profissionais atuantes na linha de frente à Covid-19 foi significativamente maior, quando comparada à da população em geral. A enfermagem mostrou-se a categoria com maiores chances para desenvolver agravos como ansiedade, depressão e insônia. Embora tenham sido notórios os aspectos negativos, evidenciou-se que possibilitar serviços de apoio e intervenções é essencial na promoção da resiliência e contribui positivamente para à saúde mental diante dos efeitos da pandemia pela Covid-19.
Influence of tropical dipole in the East Indian Ocean on acoustic convergence region
Authors: Wu Shuang-Lin , Li Zheng-Lin , Qin Ji-Xing , Wang Meng-Yuan , Dong Fan-Chen ,   State Key Laboratory of Acoustics, Institute of Acoustics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,   University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,   School of Ocean Engineering and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
Published: March 2022

The physical ocean phenomena in the ocean affect the changes of water body, which has an important influence on the sound propagation. A hyperbolic frequency modulation (HFM) signal sound propagation experiment of towed sound source in the East Indian Ocean (EIO) was conducted in summer 2019. The center frequency of the towed sound source is 300 Hz, and the hydrophone receives the data from 4130 m far. This is the first time that we have conducted the underwater acoustic survey in the Indian Ocean. The influence of the physical ocean phenomenon—Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on sound propagation is observed. The experimental data of sound propagation from the IOD are processed and analyzed, the effects of sound source depth and water fluctuation on the deep-sea convergence zone (CZ) are analyzed, and the formation mechanism of sound propagation phenomenon in the experiment is explained theoretically. The results show that the second CZ is not formed under the influence of the warm water mass formed by the IOD and the depth of the sound source in the incomplete deep channel environment of the EIO. Owing to the fluctuation of the sound source depth, the deep-sea CZ disappears at the distance where it should have appeared. When the depth of the sound source becomes deeper, it is easier to form the deep-sea CZ. Under the influence of the IOD, the thermocline fluctuation at the location of the second CZ has an important influence on the formation and location of the third CZ. It is found that the location of the third CZ shifts 2–3 km toward the sound source in the experiment. The research results have important significance in guiding the applications in detection and communication sonar in deep-sea complex environment.
Theoretical and experimental studies on the captured electron population probability of hydrogen-like O and N ions in collision with Al surface
Authors: Zhang Bing-Zhang  , Song Zhang-Yong  , Zhang Ming-Wu  , Liu Xuan  , Qian Cheng  , Fang Xin  , Shao Chao-Jie  , Wang Wei  , Liu Jun-Liang  , Zhu Zhi-Chao  , Sun Liang-Ting  , Yu De-Yang  ,   1) (School of nuclear science and technology,University of South China,Hengyang 421001, China),   2) (Institute of Modern Physics,Chinese Academy of Science,Lanzhou 730000,China),   3) (School of nuclear science and technology,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049,China),   4) (School of nuclear science and technology,Lanzhou University,Lanzhou 730000,China)
Published: March 2022

The study of the interaction between highly charged ions and solid surfaces not only has great significance for basic scientific research such as atomic physics, astrophysics, and high energy density physics but also has promising application prospects in biomedicine, nanotechnology, surface analysis, and microelectronics. In this paper, the intermediate Rydberg states formed during highly charged O7+ and N6+ ions incident on Al surface are studied theoretically by using the two-state vector model. Both the probability of electron capture into different Rydberg states (nA = 2 − 7) and the most probable neutralization distances are given. The calculation shows that the larger principal quantum number nA is relevant to smaller probability. Therefore, the X-rays emitted by O7+ and N6+ ions incident on the Al surface come mainly from the de-excitation of the smaller nA to the ground state. In order to confirm the calculations, we measured the X-ray emission spectra of O7+ and N6+ ions in collisions with the Al surface in the energy range of 3-20 keV/q. The experiments were performed at an ECR ion source located in Institute of modern physics. We also calculated the transition energies (np-1s) from different high Rydberg states to the ground state by using the FAC code. The center of the measured K X-ray peak is close to the calculated transition energy from the principal quantum number n=2 to n=1, it is consistent with our results obtained by the two-state vector model as well. In addition, we found the experimental K X-ray yield for O7+ ions incidence at lower energy collisions is almost the same with N6+ ions, but larger at higher energy collisions. When the ion incident kinetic energy is low, the X-ray emission is mainly owing to the decay of “above the surface”hollow atoms. Because of the small difference in the critical distances for the capture of electrons by O7+ and N6+ to form hollow atoms, the X-ray yields produced in both cases are almost the same at low energy collisions. In contrast, as increasing the incident energy, the ions have a long-range in the target, so the contribution from the decay of “above the surface” and “below the surface”hollow atoms need to be considered at the same time.
Extracting Rules from Neural Networks with Partial Interpretations
Authors: Persia Cosimo , Ozaki Ana
Published: March 2022

We investigate the problem of extracting rules, expressed in Horn logic, from neural network models.Our work is based on the exact learning model, in which a learner interacts with a teacher (the neural network model) via queries in order to learn an abstract target concept, which in our case is a set of Horn rules. We consider partial interpretations to formulate the queries. These can be understood as a representation of the world where part of the knowledge regarding the truthness of propositions is unknown. We employ Angluin’s algorithm for learning Horn rules via queries and evaluate our strategy empirically.
In vitro evaluation of probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from the vagina of yak (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Zhang Qingli , Pan Yangyang , Wang Meng , Sun Liang , Xi Yao , Li Mei , Zeng Qiaoying
Published: March 2022

Bovine endometritis is an inflammatory disease of the uterus that occurs after parturition and can result in the destruction of uterine microecology, disruption of hormone secretion, and even infertility. Problems such as antibiotic residues, pathogen resistance, and microbiota dysbiosis caused by conventional antibiotic therapy cannot be ignored. According to the microecological balance theory, probiotics have the potential to prevent or cure endometritis in cattle. Probiotics can positively influence host physiology by regulating microecological imbalance, modulating immunity, and antagonizing pathogens. Since some probiotics contribute to host health only in their specific natural niches, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from the vagina may have better potential to fight against vaginal and uterine infection. The yak (Bos grunniens) is an ancient and primitive livestock animal that is adapted to high altitude and harsh environments (cold, nutritional deficiencies, and hypoxia). However, to our knowledge, there have been no studies on yak vaginal LAB. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to isolate vaginal LAB from yak, evaluate and compare the probiotic potential and safety of the isolates, and help establish the probiotics library that can be used in the prevention and/or treatment of endometritis. Twenty-five vaginal swabs were collected from healthy yak and cultured in deMan, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth. Tentative LAB strains were preliminarily determined through calcium dissolving zone and morphological identification, and the strains were then identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The probiotics of the isolates were detected using cell aggregation, hydrophobicity, resistance to acid and bile salt, adhesion, and antibacterial activities. Additionally, antimicrobial susceptibility, hemolytic activity, and detection of potential virulence factors were determined in order to confirm the safety of these strains. Five isolates were identified: Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus hirae, Lacticaseibacillus camelliae, and Lactobacillus mucosae. All isolates had certain growth resistance, aggregation ability, effective antimicrobial potency against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium, were sensitive to most antibiotics, and could effectively adhere to bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEECs). None of the isolates showed hemolytic activity or harbored virulence factors. Our results indicated that the five isolates have considerable potential as probiotics that can be used to prevent and/or treat bovine endometritis. We speculate that a mixture of YD6, YD9, and YD25 may yield better results, although this would require extensive experiments to verify.
Factors Determining the Impact of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Interventions and Farmers Constraints in Adoption
Authors: Pooja H. J. , Dolli S. S. , Sonnad J. S.
Published: March 2022

The study was conducted in the jurisdiction of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sirsi of Uttara Kannada district during 2019-2021. Thirty beneficiary farmers of frontline demonstration (FLD) each from arecanut and pepper, thirty farmers trained in dairy management were selected forming a sample of 90 farmers. The farmers were interviewed using pre-tested schedule. It was found that education, family annual income, area under commercial crop, ICT utilization, extension participation, information seeking behavior, scientific orientation, resource base and nature of intervention had influenced the adoption behavior of the farmers. These variables together explained adoption to the extent of 81 per cent in case of arecanut, 79 per cent in pepper and 76 per cent in case of dairy farmers. The study revealed that majority (74.44 %) of the beneficiary farmers expressed climate change as major constraint followed by high cost of inputs (56.67 %), disease infestation (50.00 %), difficult to adopt (48.89 %), labor shortage (43.33 %), less clarity in technology (32.22 %), no person to guide while adopting (24.44 %) improved practices.
The Impact of Global Financial Crisis on the Palestinian Economy
Authors: Badwan Nemer
Published: March 2022

This research looked at the overall impact of the global financial crisis on the Palestinian economy from 2005 to 2021, focusing on two periods: the first from the start of the global crisis in the fall of 2008 to December of that year, and the second from December of that year to the end of that year 2011. The findings of this study show that Palestine's strong reliance on the prices of foodstuffs, oil, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and food items as a whole has resulted in a rise in the prices of oil and gas, commodities, and foodstuffs as a result of the worldwide crisis. We also discovered that the banking and tourist industries were unaffected by the downturn. The information is given in a series of tables with statistical analysis to back it up. This research backs up this theory with solid empirical data. In terms of Palestinian economic growth, it should be highlighted that for the past two decades, the Palestinian National Authority has relied on foreign donations and grants to fund its expenditures. This revenue source has recently dwindled, resulting in the suspension of public worker salary payments as well as a reduction in overall government spending. Large and persistent trade deficits, on the other hand, continue to push the government and the private sector into unsustainable debt. Because there is no national currency in Palestine, both the governmental and commercial sectors rely on foreign reserves. Although the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) and the Palestinian Monetary Authority (PMA) have so far avoided a systemic currency crisis, existing deficit financing patterns are unlikely to last permanently, since domestic foreign reserves are fast diminishing and arrears mount. The amount of debt owed is increasing at an alarming rate. This leaves the administration with two alternatives for funding the deficit: either selling debt instruments on the capital markets or using the Palestinian Monetary Authority to introduce Palestinian currency to cover expenditures. Capital market financing without monetary authority, according to the study, leads to large interest rate volatility and financial instability. Given terms of monetary finance, in the existing institutional and economic framework, there are no criteria for creating a national currency.
Productivity, Potentiality and Soil-site Suitability Evaluation for Rice Crop in the Moridhal Watershed of Dhemaji District of Assam
Authors: Bharteey Prem Kumar , Deka Bipul , Dutta Marami , Patgiri Dilip Kumar
Published: March 2022

A study was undertaken to carry out the productivity and suitability evaluation of the soils of the Moridhal watershed in Dhemaji district of Assam. Satellite image interpretation led to the recognition of four different physiographic units in the studied area which included: upper piedmont plain, lower piedmont plain, alluvial plain, and flood plain. One hundred seventy surface soil samples representing different physiographic units were collected and analyzed in the laboratory for various soil parameters. The productivity and suitability of the soils were computed and assessed by following standard procedures. The productivity index of studied soils varied from 12.13 to 62.14 could be ranked as: alluvial plain>flood plain>lower piedmont plain>upper piedmont plain. However, through adoption of proper improvement measures the soils could be improved to land index values of 41.04 to 90.25.The land index value for Sali rice, Ahu rice and Bororice could categorize into permanently unsuitable (N2) to moderately suitable (S2). The studied soils in terms of their suitability for Sali rice, Ahu rice and Boro rice could be arranged in the sequence: flood plain> alluvial plain> lower piedmont plain> upper piedmontplain. The productivity and soil suitability maps as generated under GIS environment will serve as ready reckoner to farmers, planners and administrators in identifying the potential are assuitable for the major crops grown in that area.
Synthesis, Characterisation and Evaluation of Azetidine-2-One Derivative
Authors: Ramachandran S. , Dheepika S. , Deepak M. , Duraiseelan M. , Chandru B. S. , Aanandhi M. Vijey
Published: March 2022

Antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antitubercular, anti-HIV, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and ulcerogenic activities have all been documented for azetidinone derivatives.

The reaction of Schiff base((Z)-N (4-dimethylamino)benzylidene)pyrimidine-2-amine) with chloroacetyl chloride yielded a novel chemical called Azetdine-2-one derivative. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy were used to confirm the chemical structures of the produced substances. The antimicrobial activity shows that the compound showed mild Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Assess the Mean Change in Outcomes of Sildenafil in the Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Erectile Dysfunction Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Ali Arif , Hussain Shahid , Suria Bilal , Sohu Safiullah , Murtaza . , Dilawar Suhail
Published: March 2022

Objective: To assess the mean change in outcomes of sildenafil in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Study Design: This is a quasi experimental study.

Setting: The study was carried out at OPD of Department of Urology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, from January 26, 2018 to July 26, 2018.

Materials and Methods: 50 patients fulfilling selection criteria were included in the study through OPD of Department of Urology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi Informed consents were obtained. Demographics (name, age and contact) were also be obtained. All patients were subjected to detailed history and clinical examination for BPH and ED according to the IPSS and IIEF. Mean change in urine flow rate assessed through uroflowmetry and Mean change in post-void residual (PVR) urine was assessed through an ultrasound on the same day and on follow-up after 10th weeks in OPD before and after the tablet sildenafil 50 mg OD at night to every patient.

Results: Mean age of patients was 58.42±9.76 (45-80) years. pre and post treatment International prostate symptom score (IPSS) score mean 17.78±2.91 and 12.94±2.79 (p-value=0.0001) respectively, erectile function score (IIEF) score mean 17.64±2.69 and 21.86±4.47 (p-value=0.0001) respectively, Urinary flow rate (UFR) pre and post treatment mean 8.32±1.62 and 12.46±1.83 (p-value=0.0001) respectively, Post-void residual (PVR) urine pre and post treatment mean 62.64±6.29 and 54.72±5.04 (p-value=0.0001) respectively.

Conclusion: Improvement of erectile dysfunction and reduction of urinary tract symptoms in men with sildenafil was associated with improved quality of life and satisfaction with treatment. Daily doses of sildenafil can improve lower urinary tract symptoms.
Investigation of the Effect of Methylprednisolone on Neck Pain
Authors: Komlakh Khalil , Hatefi Masoud
Published: March 2022

Background: Chronic Neck pain (NP) is one of the most common problems. Therefore, the present study was conducted with an aim Investigation of the effect of prednisolone on NP.

Methods: In this clinical trial, with 46 patients for the experimental group and 43 patients were analyzed for the control group. The method of selecting individuals in both groups was sequentially, thus all eligible individuals were selected to complete the sample size required. The statistical population of patients with NP was referred to clinics, hospitals and specialist doctors. Data were collected using the VAS pain scale, which was in the range of zero-10, before and after the intervention and analyzed using SPSS16 software.

Result: The results showed that the M (SD) pain score before the intervention in the control group was 7.32±0.47 and in the experimental group was 7.20±0.41(P=0.21, F=6.27). After drug treatment with methylprednisolone in 3 days after M (SD) intervention the pain of patients in the experimental group decreased to 5.50±0.88, in 6 days to 3.60±0.53 and in 9 days to 3.26±0.68(P=0.000). Conclusions: Due to the positive effect of methylprednisolone on reducing pain in patients with NP, the use of this drug is recommended to reduce pain in these patients.
Entropic Information & Black Hole: Black Hole Information Entropy The Missing Link
Authors: Denis Olivier
Published: March 2022

Understanding the ‘Area Law,’ in regards to the black hole entropy, based on an underlying fundamental theory has been one of the goals pursued by all models of quantum gravity. In black hole thermodynamics, black hole entropy is a measure of uncertainty or lack of information about the actual internal configuration of the system. The Bekenstein bound corresponds to the interpretation in terms of bits of information of a given physical system down to the quantum level. However, at present, it is not known which microstates are counted by the entropy of black holes. Here, i show that the new formulation of entropic information approach, based on the bit of information gives an explanation of information processes involved in calculating entropy on missing information from black holes as well as down to the quantum level. Moreover, this formulation of entropic information constitutes a new coherent global mathematical framework candidate to be the Grand Unification Theory; with information as the ultimate building block of universe.
A comparison of central compartment atopic disease and lateral dominant nasal polyps
Authors: Shih Liang‐Chun , Hsieh Bing‐Han , Ma Jia‐Hung , Huang Shuang‐Shuang , Tsou Yung‐An , Lin Chia‐Der , Huang Kuang‐Hua , Tai Chih‐Jaan
Published: March 2022

Background

The characteristics and surgical outcomes of central compartment atopic disease (CCAD) vary by region and race. Therefore, we aimed to identify the risk factors, symptom severity, and prognosis of CCAD in the Asian population.

Methods

This case‐control study recruited patients diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps who underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) at a tertiary hospital in Taiwan. Patients were classified into CCAD and lateral‐dominant nasal polyp (LDNP) groups based on endoscopic and computed tomography imaging findings. The demographic data, symptom severity scores, and surgical outcomes of the 2 groups were analyzed.

Results

Our study included 442 patients (CCAD group: n = 51; LDNP group: n = 391). We found that CCAD was strongly related to both asthma (9.8% vs 3.5%, p = 0.04) and allergic rhinitis symptoms (43.3% vs 26.6%, p = 0.01). Higher eosinophil counts were detected in blood serum (5.8% vs 2.8%, p < 0.01) and histopathologic profiles (57.0 vs 17.3, p < 0.01) among patients with CCAD. Improvements in 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) score and mucociliary clearance time (MCT) after surgical intervention revealed that the CCAD group had a better response to FESS (SNOT‐22 score: −31.82 vs −22.66, p < 0.01; MCT: −233.06 vs −191.93 seconds, p = 0.03). The revision FESS rate was not different between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Polyps originating from the central compartment were found to be related to asthma and allergic rhinitis in Taiwanese patients. A higher eosinophil count was suggested in both serum and local nasal tissue from patients with CCAD. FESS serves as an effective treatment for symptom relief in patients with CCAD.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to Formate on Nanoparticulated Bi−Sn−Sb Electrodes
Authors: Ávila‐Bolívar Beatriz , Montiel Vicente , Solla‐Gullón José
Published: March 2022

Human activities during the last century have increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere, mainly carbon dioxide (CO2), and the impacts of climate change around the world are becoming more damaging. Therefore, scientific research is needed to mitigate the consequences of atmospheric CO2, and, among others, the electrochemical CO2 conversion to useful chemicals is one of the most interesting alternatives. Herein, different Bi, Sn and Sb systems were synthesised as nanoparticles, supported on carbon (Vulcan XC‐72R) and finally used to manufacture electrodes. The Bi−Sn−Sb nanoparticulated systems and their corresponding electrodes were characterised by TEM, XPS, ICP‐OES and SEM. Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to formate was performed in an electrochemical H‐type cell in a CO2‐saturated KHCO3 and KCl solution. The Bi−Sn−Sb electrodes exhibited good activity and selectivity for the CO2 reduction towards formate. Particularly, Bi95Sb05/C and Bi80Sn10Sb10/C electrodes showed improved stability compared to previous works, keeping values of formate efficiency over 50 % after 24 h.
Pineal germinoma in a young adult: A case report
Authors: Fernández‐Rodríguez Lissett Jeanette , Maldonado‐Pijoan Xavier
Published: March 2022

Background

Intracranial germinomas (GN) are rare cancers that primarily affect children, making them rarer still in adults. Standard treatment for this neoplasm includes neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NC) followed by radiotherapy (RT) or RT at a higher dose and larger field. These recommendations are based on studies focused mostly on children; it is currently unclear whether this treatment is applicable to adults.

Case

We present a case of a 23‐year‐old adult male with no underlying pathologies, drug allergies, or family history of cancer, who presented for medical evaluation with blurred vision, diplopia, forgetfulness, and weight loss starting 3–4 months before the evaluation. Clinical examination indicated Parinaud's Syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) revealed a pineal tumor with ependymal dissemination in both lateral ventricles, which was causing obstructive hydrocephalus. The patient had surgery consisting of ventriculostomy, Holter shunt insertion, cisternal ventricular intubation, and cisterna magna anastomosis to improve ventricular drainage. Pathology confirmed pineal germinoma. Cerebrospinal fluid cytology and MRI of the axis were negative. Four cycles of NC were given to the patient (carboplatin, etoposide, and ifosfamide), with reduced dosage. Once a partial volumetric response was confirmed, whole‐ventricular radiotherapy (WVR) was initiated with a total tumor bed dose of 45 Gy over 25 sessions in 5 weeks. Optimum clinical results were observed, and no short‐term (<90 day) radiation toxicity was observed. The patient was able to resume his normal activities soon after treatment. Follow‐ups over 2 years post‐surgery indicated continued control of the lesion and absence of symptoms except for mild diplopia.

Conclusion

Although this is a case report, these data suggest that a reduced NC course and WVR may effectively treat adult GN. This protocol likely decreases the risk of undesirable NC and RT secondary effects, while providing excellent local control; however, using a narrower RT field is not recommended.
Cap‐Like Ellipsoid Deposition on the ZnO Nanowires for Large Increase of Fluorescence Induced by Localized Field Enhancement Effect
Authors: Chen Haixia , Xu Chao , Ding Jijun , Fu Haiwei , Jin Yanxin
Published: March 2022

The cap‐like ZnO ellipsoids are deposited on the top of the ZnO nanowire (NW) arrays to synthesize ZnO‐based ellipsoid/NW nanostructures. By controlling the deposition time, the aspect ratio of ZnO ellipsoids from 100/70 to 270/120 is improved. The effect of the ellipsoid deposition time on the fluorescence properties is systematically investigated and successfully enhanced. Photoluminescence (PL) emission for 5 min ZnO ellipsoid/NW nanostructures is enhanced by an enhancement factor of around 3.2 compared with the as‐grown ZnO NW arrays. Moreover, using the finite element method simulation, the most vigorous electric field intensity appears on the top of nanostructures owing to the localized field enhancement effect of ZnO ellipsoids, which can effectively prolong the photons remaining in the ZnO ellipsoid/NW nanostructures, enable electrons to exchange energy with photons and then generate more electron–hole pairs, resulting in PL emission enhancement. In addition, the maximum area integration for electric field values higher than 3 × 108 V m−1 can also be obtained corresponding to the most vigorous PL emission. This shows great potential applications as fluorescence materials in photoelectric devices.
Unlocking autofluorescence in the era of full spectrum analysis: Implications for immunophenotype discovery projects
Authors: Jameson Vanta J. , Luke Tina , Yan Yuting , Hind Angela , Evrard Maximilien , Man Kevin , Mackay Laura K. , Kallies Axel , Villadangos Jose A. , McWilliam Hamish E. G. , Perez‐Gonzalez Alexis
Published: March 2022

Understanding the complex elements affecting signal resolution in cytometry is key for quality experimental design and data. In this study, we incorporate autofluorescence as a contributing factor to our understanding of resolution in cytometry and corroborate its impact in fluorescence signal detection through mathematical predictions supported by empirical evidence. Our findings illustrate the critical importance of autofluorescence extraction via full spectrum unmixing in unmasking dim signals and delineating the expression and subset distribution of low abundance markers in discovery projects. We apply our findings to the precise definition of the tissue and cellular distribution of a weakly expressed fluorescent protein that reports on a low‐abundance immunological gene. Exploiting the full spectrum coverage enabled by Aurora 5L, we describe a novel approach to the isolation of pure cell subset‐specific autofluorescence profiles based on high dimensionality reduction algorithms. This method can also be used to unveil differences in the autofluorescent fingerprints of tissues in homeostasis and after immunological challenges.
Research on data‐driven model for soft sensing of natural gas production system
Authors: Wang Dan , Kang Qi , Yang Juheng , Gong Jing , Zhang Qi
Published: March 2022

In view of the problems of high cost and low reliability in obtaining operation information such as flow rate and pressure of offshore natural gas production system, research on soft sensing is carried out, and a dynamic data‐driven model bank is established, in purpose of estimating single‐well flow rate and wellhead pressure, providing convenience tool for online monitoring and system safety analysis. Combining dynamic and steady‐state samples, introducing black‐box identification techniques including orthogonal least square regression and deep learning along with parameter correction techniques such as bi‐objective least square algorithm and transfer learning, a series of nonlinear auto‐regressive models with exogenous inputs (NARX) are built, consisting of black‐box and gray‐box polynomial NARX (Poly‐NARX) models as well as deep neural network NARX (DNN‐NARX) models, approximately describing the dynamic performance of gas production well. Through realistic operation data, the simulation results of Poly‐NARX, DNN‐NARX, and multiple‐layer‐perception‐NARX models are compared. It is observed that gray‐box DNN‐NARX model shows the best performance with advantages of higher global applicability, better approximation ability, and stronger generalization ability. Proposed model bank is of high expansibility and engineering applicability for soft sensing problems in the petroleum industry, laying the ground work for building smart oil and gas field.
Machine learning in energy storage materials
Authors: Shen Zhong‐Hui , Liu Han‐Xing , Shen Yang , Hu Jia‐Mian , Chen Long‐Qing , Nan Ce‐Wen
Published: March 2022

With its extremely strong capability of data analysis, machine learning has shown versatile potential in the revolution of the materials research paradigm. Here, taking dielectric capacitors and lithium‐ion batteries as two representative examples, we review substantial advances of machine learning in the research and development of energy storage materials. First, a thorough discussion of the machine learning framework in materials science is presented. Then, we summarize the applications of machine learning from three aspects, including discovering and designing novel materials, enriching theoretical simulations, and assisting experimentation and characterization. Finally, a brief outlook is highlighted to spark more insights on the innovative implementation of machine learning in materials science.
Forecasting China's stock market volatility with shrinkage method: Can Adaptive Lasso select stronger predictors from numerous predictors?
Authors: Liang Chao , Xu Yongan , Chen Zhonglu , Li Xiafei
Published: March 2022

This paper employs a shrinkage method named Adaptive Lasso (ALasso) to predict the realized volatility (RV) of the China's stock market with numerous predictors. We observed from the out‐of‐sample predictions that the ALasso model exhibits better predictive power than its competitors, implying that the ALasso method can select stronger predictors in the forecasting process than competing models. In addition, the predictability of ALasso method is better in low volatility periods than in high volatility periods. Finally, several robustness check methods, including different forecasting windows, different low and high volatility division, and different volatility measures, supported our results.
Exploring career advancement of pharmacy support staff within two Queensland hospitals: a qualitative study
Authors: Cheong Aaron K. W. , McMillan Sara S. , Anoopkumar‐Dukie Shailendra , Kelly Fiona S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Internationally, pharmacy assistants and technicians have expanded their roles to allow pharmacists to concentrate on more clinical duties. The Australian model of care is currently exploring avenues for strategic role expansion for these support staff.

Aim

To qualitatively explore pharmacist and support staff views on the training needs of Australian pharmacy support staff.

Methods

Ethics approval was obtained from both Metro South Human Research Ethics Committee and UnitingCare HREC prior to the commencement of the study. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with personnel from the private and public settings to explore key issues identified in the literature. Interviews were conducted either face‐to‐face or via telephone between October 2017 and August 2018, with a mean duration of 39.85 min. NVivo® 11 qualitative software was used to consolidate the data. The general inductive approach was used for thematic data analysis, which allowed for the emergence of new themes and sub‐themes within the research topic.

Results

A total of 25 participants consisting of 10 pharmacists and 15 pharmacy support staff were recruited from a private (n = 13) and a public (n = 12) hospital in South‐East Queensland. Participants across both pharmacist and pharmacy support staff expressed inadequacy in current certification level, resulting in a need for further on‐the‐job training. The main reported facilitators to pursue further training were organisational support, career progression and remuneration. The main reported barriers were training cost and lack of time.

Conclusions

This exploratory study provides critical insights into the evolving needs of support staff that can inform innovative strategic role expansion for efficient and sustainable training.
Study on microstructure and tribological properties of hierarchical 3D braid applicable in heavy operating tribology conditions
Authors: Zahabi Saeed Reza , Sheikhzadeh Mohammad , Akbarzadeh Saleh , Bahi Addie , Ko Frank
Published: March 2022

The phenomenon of wear and friction in a variety of environments, including dry, seawater, and high temperatures, has always been a source of contention. Designing and fabricating parts that can function optimally in these conditions, such as self‐lubricating composites, is helpful. This work investigated the tribological and thermal properties of a three‐dimensional braid composite consisting of PTFE yarns and three types of reinforcement in the hierarchical structure under different operating conditions. In this study, the effect of different speeds was considered as well as effect of load. Roughness (Rq) and wear rate of the worn surface were also taken into account while evaluating the friction coefficient. By the response surface method (RSM) and D‐optimal design, the tests were planned experimentally so that the minimum test was performed. Statistical models from the analysis of experimental data by RSM revealed that the friction coefficient of all composites rises in dry conditions with increasing load and sliding speed. In contrast, in seawater conditions, the more difficult the test conditions, the friction took a positive trend. Glass fiber reinforced composites were temperature sensitive and behaved differently in different conditions. The most optimal cases were calculated and reported by the utility function. Furthermore, the coefficient of friction values obtained in all cases were desirable and reliable.
Electron and positron elastic scattering by non‐central potentials: Matrix elements and symmetry properties in the first Born approximation
Authors: Barp Marcos V. , Arretche Felipe
Published: March 2022

The Fourier transform of Cartesian Gaussian functions product is presented in the light of positron and electron elastic scattering. The calculation of this class of integrals is crucial in order to obtain the scattering amplitude in the first Born approximation framework for an ab initio method recently proposed. A general solution to the scattering amplitude is given to a molecular target with no restriction due to symmetry. Moreover, symmetry relations are presented with the purpose of identifying terms that do not contribute to the calculation for the molecules in the D∞h point group optimizing the computational effort.
A portable off‐road crawling hexapod robot
Authors: Yao Shun , Yao Yan‐an , Liu Ran , Liu Chao
Published: March 2022

Legged robot has attracted wide attention because of its outstanding mobility and flexibility in the off‐road environment. Benefitting from the smooth foot trajectory and the discrete footholds, the robot can traverse the rough terrains with a great maneuverability. This paper studies a portable off‐road crawling hexapod robot with a flat structure of Schatz linkage. The proposed crawling hexapod robot could be stacked flatly with a compact size, which is good for storage and transportation. What's more, the robot could play an important role in the search and rescue mission. It could protect the operator from an incident like a collapsing wall. The robot has four locomotion gaits to meet different demands on rough terrains, including the hexapod gait, the tripod gait, the butterfly stroke gait, and the escape gait. A prototype of the robot system is fabricated. A series of experiments and simulated search and rescue missions are conducted, and the results verify that the robot could traverse through the rough terrain and complete the tasks required in the search and rescue mission.
A generalized weighted combination test of treatment effect for clinical trials with a sequential parallel comparison design and binary endpoint
Authors: Quan Hui , Chen Xiaofei , Luo Junxiang , Chen Xun
Published: March 2022

To address the issue of a large placebo effect in certain therapeutic areas, rather than the application of the traditional gold standard parallel group placebo‐controlled design, different versions of the sequential parallel comparison design have been advocated. In general, the design consists of two consecutive stages and three treatment groups. Stage 1 placebo nonresponders potentially form a prespecified patient subgroup for formal between‐treatment comparison at the final analysis. In this research, a version of the design is considered for a binary endpoint. To fully utilize all available data, a generalized weighted combination test is proposed in case placebo has a relatively small effect for some of the study endpoints. The weighted combination of the test based on stage 1 data and the test based on stage 2 data of stage 1 placebo nonresponders suggested in the literature uses only a part of the study data and is a special case of this generalized weighted combination test. A multiple imputation approach is outlined for handling missing not at random data. Simulation is conducted to evaluate the performances of the methods and a data example is employed to illustrate the applications of the methods.
Multi-objective vehicle routing with automated negotiation
Authors: de Jonge Dave , Bistaffa Filippo , Levy Jordi
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates a problem that lies at the intersection of three research areas, namely automated negotiation, vehicle routing, and multi-objective optimization. Specifically, it investigates the scenario that multiple competing logistics companies aim to cooperate by delivering truck loads for one another, in order to improve efficiency and reduce the distance they drive. In order to do so, these companies need to find ways to exchange their truck loads such that each of them individually benefits. We present a new heuristic algorithm that, given one set of orders for each company, tries to find the set of all truck load exchanges that are Pareto-optimal and individually rational. Unlike existing approaches, it does this without relying on any kind of trusted central server, so the companies do not need to disclose their private cost models to anyone. The idea is that the companies can then use automated negotiation techniques to negotiate which of these truck load exchanges will truly be carried out. Furthermore, this paper presents a new, multi-objective, variant of And/Or search that forms part of our approach, and it presents experiments based on real-world data, as well as on the commonly used Li & Lim data set. These experiments show that our algorithm is able to find hundreds of solutions within a matter of minutes. Finally, this paper presents an experiment with several state-of-the-art negotiation algorithms to show that the combination of our search algorithm with automated negotiation is viable.
Neotropical ostracode oxygen and carbon isotope signatures: implications for calcification conditions
Authors: Wrozyna Claudia , Meyer Juliane , Dietzel Martin , Piller Werner E.
Published: March 2022

Calcitic valves of non-marine ostracodes are important geochemical archives. Investigations of the relationship between the ranges of oxygen and carbon isotope values of modern ostracode populations and their host water provide important information on local or regional conditions and influences. Here we present the first δ18Oostracodeand δ13C of the freshwater ostracode speciesCytheridella ilosvayialong with the isotopic composition of the waters in which the ostracodes calcified, δDwater, δ18Owater, δ13CDICvalues—covering a large geographical range (Florida to Brazil). With this data we extended a newly developed approach based on the estimation of δ18O values of monthly equilibrium calcites as references for the interpretation of δ18Oostracodevalues. The expected apparent oxygen isotope fractionation between CaCO3and H2O is correlated with temperature with smaller values occurring at higher temperatures as valid at isotope equilibrium (δ18Ocalcite_eq). Uncertainties about the expected equilibrium calcites derive from incomplete knowledge of high-frequency variations of the water bodies caused by interplay of mixing, evaporation, and temperature. Coincidence between δ18Oostracodeand δ18Ocalcite_eqis restricted to few months indicating a seasonal calcification ofCytheridella. There is a characteristic pattern in its difference between mean δ18Oostracodeand δ18Ocalcite_eqwhich implies thatCytheridellaprovides a synchronous life cycle in its geographical range with two calcification periods in spring (May, June) and autumn (October). This ubiquitous life cycle ofCytheridellain the entire study area is considered to be phylogenetically inherited. It might have originally been adapted to environmental conditions but has been conserved during the migration and radiation of the group over the Neotropical realm.
Crystal structure and metal binding properties of the periplasmic iron component EfeM from Pseudomonas syringae EfeUOB/M iron-transport system
Authors: Rajasekaran Mohan B. , Hussain Rohanah , Siligardi Giuliano , Andrews Simon C. , Watson Kimberly A.
Published: March 2022

EfeUOB/M has been characterised in Pseudomonas syringae pathovar. syringae as a novel type of ferrous-iron transporter, consisting of an inner-membrane protein (EfeUPsy) and three periplasmic proteins (EfeOPsy, EfeMPsy and EfeBPsy). The role of an iron permease and peroxidase function has been identified for the EfeU and EfeB proteins, respectively, but the role of EfeO/M remains unclear. EfeMPsy is an ‘M75-only’ EfeO-like protein with a C-terminal peptidase-M75 domain (EfeOII/EfeM family). Herein, we report the 1.6 Å resolution crystal structure of EfeMPsy, the first structural report for an EfeM component of P. syringae pv. syringae. The structure possesses the bi-lobate architecture found in other bacterial periplasmic substrate/solute binding proteins. Metal binding studies, using SRCD and ICP-OES, reveal a preference of EfeMPsy for copper, iron and zinc. This work provides detailed knowledge of the structural scaffold, the metal site geometry, and the divalent metal binding potential of EfeM. This work provides crucial underpinning for a more detailed understanding of the role of EfeM/EfeO proteins and the peptidase-M75 domains in EfeUOB/M iron uptake systems in bacteria.
Plasma-neutral gas interactions in various space environments: Assessment beyond simplified approximations as a Voyage 2050 theme
Authors: Yamauchi Masatoshi , De Keyser Johan , Parks George , Oyama Shin-ichiro , Wurz Peter , Abe Takumi , Beth Arnaud , Daglis Ioannis A. , Dandouras Iannis , Dunlop Malcolm , Henri Pierre , Ivchenko Nickolay , Kallio Esa , Kucharek Harald , Liu Yong C.-M. , Mann Ingrid , Marghitu Octav , Nicolaou Georgios , Rong Zhaojin , Sakanoi Takeshi , Saur Joachim , Shimoyama Manabu , Taguchi Satoshi , Tian Feng , Tsuda Takuo , Tsurutani Bruce , Turner Drew , Ulich Thomas , Yau Andrew , Yoshikawa Ichiro
Published: March 2022

In the White Paper, submitted in response to the European Space Agency (ESA) Voyage 2050 Call, we present the importance of advancing our knowledge of plasma-neutral gas interactions, and of deepening our understanding of the partially ionized environments that are ubiquitous in the upper atmospheres of planets and moons, and elsewhere in space. In future space missions, the above task requires addressing the following fundamental questions: (A) How and by how much do plasma-neutral gas interactions influence the re-distribution of externally provided energy to the composing species? (B) How and by how much do plasma-neutral gas interactions contribute toward the growth of heavy complex molecules and biomolecules? Answering these questions is an absolute prerequisite for addressing the long-standing questions of atmospheric escape, the origin of biomolecules, and their role in the evolution of planets, moons, or comets, under the influence of energy sources in the form of electromagnetic and corpuscular radiation, because low-energy ion-neutral cross-sections in space cannot be reproduced quantitatively in laboratories for conditions of satisfying, particularly, (1) low-temperatures, (2) tenuous or strong gradients or layered media, and (3) in low-gravity plasma. Measurements with a minimum core instrument package (< 15 kg) can be used to perform such investigations in many different conditions and should be included in all deep-space missions. These investigations, if specific ranges of background parameters are considered, can also be pursued for Earth, Mars, and Venus.