bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Vacation on Employee Stress, Health and Well-being, and Productivity
Authors: Pradhan . , Tripathi Abhishek , Vishal .
Published: July 2021

Leisure activities have an important part in promoting health and well-being for employees. This research attempts to determine the link between holiday and the health and well-being of employees, while also demonstrating a precedent in improving productivity. There was a study of 75 workers working in India to assess the culture, stress causes and holiday pattern of their employees. The primary indication of our results was a survey of people operating in the Indian subcontinent. The opinions of participants were the information analysed to establish a relationship between health and well-being of employees and productivity. Impacts of better insurance on employees. The consequences of enhancing the insurance procedure would have a greater level of motivation, retention and productivity for employees. This interpretative sociology would help companies build a workforce that can perform better. The researchers investigated the present condition of employees working in India after using academic ideas and assessing their existing perceived workplaces. At the time of holidays which was the most favoured leisure activity in our survey, we sought to develop a better model to achieve employee health and wellbeing.
A Protein‐Based Free‐Standing Proton‐Conducting Transparent Elastomer for Large‐Scale Sensing Applications
Authors: Nandi Ramesh , Agam Yuval , Amdursky Nadav
Published: July 2021

A most important endeavor in modern materials’ research is the current shift toward green environmental and sustainable materials. Natural resources are one of the attractive building blocks for making environmentally friendly materials. In most cases, however, the performance of nature‐derived materials is inferior to the performance of carefully designed synthetic materials. This is especially true for conductive polymers, which is the topic here. Inspired by the natural role of proteins in mediating protons, their utilization in the creation of a free‐standing transparent polymer with a highly elastic nature and proton conductivity comparable to that of synthetic polymers, is demonstrated. Importantly, the polymerization process relies on natural protein crosslinkers and is spontaneous and energy‐efficient. The protein used, bovine serum albumin, is one of the most affordable proteins, resulting in the ability to create large‐scale materials at a low cost. Due to the inherent biodegradability and biocompatibility of the elastomer, it is promising for biomedical applications. Here, its immediate utilization as a solid‐state interface for sensing of electrophysiological signals, is shown.
Temperature Hypersensitive Organic Electroluminescence in a Reverse Biased, Frozen Polymer P–I–N Junction
Authors: Wang Dongze , Hu Shiyu , Gao Jun
Published: July 2021

Semiconductor junctions are among the most important material interfaces in modern technology. The solid polymer light‐emitting electrochemical cell (PLEC) possesses a semiconducting polymer homojunction that is reminiscent of a conventional p–n junction but also exhibits distinct features that are profoundly intriguing. The PLEC junction is formed under bias when the propagating p‐ and n‐doping fronts make contact. The PLEC junction can be immobilized by cooling after the initial junction formation. Further, the resulting frozen junction can be relaxed, or partially de‐doped into a p–i–n junction by controlled heating/cooling cycles. It is on such a frozen polymer p–i–n junction that the authors observed one of the most puzzling phenomena in organic electroluminescence (EL). The frozen p–i–n junction displays the brightest reverse bias (RB) EL ever imaged in a polymer junction and a large photovoltage. Moreover, the RB EL exhibits hypersensitivity to temperature, increasing in intensity by 22.6% K−1 when the de‐doped cell is cooled from 250 to 200 K. A model based on the tunnel injection of charge carriers with fast transit time across the intrinsic region explains the RB EL's hypersensitivity to temperature and super‐linear dependence on cell current.
Study on Influencing Factors of Consistency in Manufacturing Process of Vehicle Lithium‐Ion Battery Based on Correlation Coefficient and Multivariate Linear Regression Model
Authors: Han Youjun , Yuan Hongyuan , Li Jin , Du Juan , Hu Yueming , Huang Xuejie
Published: July 2021

Lithium‐ion battery manufacturing is a multiprocess serial system and the consistency of each single cell will affect the performance and safety of battery system after grouping. Therefore, optimizing the battery preparation process and improving the battery consistency have become the key technical issues in battery preparation process. In this study, the inconsistency of finished batteries caused by manufacturing process is analyzed from three processes: electrode preparation, battery assembly, and liquid injection and formation and the structure–activity relationship between manufacturing process data and battery consistency is studied. Taking the actual capacity, self‐discharge rate, and internal resistance of single cell as target variables, the correlation coefficient matrix between original process variables and target variables is constructed by using correlation analysis method and the correlation index between process variables and target variables is obtained. The multiple linear regression model is established by stepwise regression method and the weight of original process variables affecting battery consistency is deduced. The results show that the data of multiple process links have a high influence weight on the actual capacity and self‐discharge rate of batteries, which provide a theoretical model for the key strategies of improving quality consistency in lithium‐ion battery industry.
Efficient callus induction and regeneration in proso millet
Authors: Liu Beibei , Wu Huiqin , Yang Simin , Wu Enguo , Yang Pu , Gao Xiaoli
Published: July 2021

Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) is an important drought‐tolerant crop, and recently it has become a research focus because of its health‐care and nutrition significance. A study was carried out to investigate callus induction and differentiation and plantlet rooting in Shaanmi 1 and Shaanmi 2 with young leaves of the two varieties. Its result showed that in proso millet, the age of aseptic seedlings could influence on inducing calli from young leaves with the highest callus induction frequency at the seedling age of 7 d. N6 medium performed better in inducing calli from young leaves. There did appear to be no calli on MS medium without 2,4‐D, but calli were induced on N6 medium without 2,4‐D in Shaanmi 2, with its induction frequency standing 6.45% and no calli were induced on the medium without 2,4‐D in Shaanmi 1. With 2,4‐D added, there appeared the highest callus induction frequency at a 2,4‐D concentration of 3.0 mg L–1. The optimal medium to induce calli from young leaves in proso millet was N6 medium plus 2,4‐D (3.0 mg L–1) and KT (0.5 mg L–1), with its callus induction frequency at 64.33% (Shaanmi 1) and 68.67% (Shaanmi 2), respectively. The optimal callus differentiation medium was MS medium plus 1.0 mg L–1 6‐BA and 0.5 mg L–1NAA, with its differentiation rate at 87.78% (Shaanmi 1) and 96.29% (Shaanmi 2), respectively. Proline adding at 600 mg L–1 was conducive to callus differentiation. The optimal rooting medium was 1/2MS medium plus NAA (0.1 mg L–1), with its rooting rate at 100%.
Real‐Life experience with hydroxyurea in patients with sickle cell disease: Results from the prospective ESCORT‐HU cohort study
Authors: de Montalembert Mariane , Voskaridou Ersi , Oevermann Lena , Cannas Giovanna , Habibi Anoosha , Loko Gylna , Joseph Laure , Colombatti Raffaella , Bartolucci Pablo , Brousse Valentine , Galactéros Frédéric ,   All ESCORT HU Investigators
Published: July 2021

Several controlled studies have evidenced good efficacy and short‐term and mid‐term safety profiles for hydroxyurea (HU), which has become the cornerstone for prevention of sickle‐cell disease (SCD)‐related vaso‐occlusive crises. However, there are few large‐scale reports on its long‐term use and certain caregivers and patients have concerns about its safety. Following the licensing of HU in Europe for children and adults with severe forms of SCD, ESCORT‐HU was designed as a Phase IV observational cohort study. It included 1906 participants, of whom 55% were adults. The most common hemoglobin (Hb) genotypes were HbSS (84.7%) and HbSβ+ (7.0%). The median duration of follow‐up was 45 months, for a total of 7309 patient‐years of observation. The dose of HU after 1 year was 20.6 mg/kg/d for children and 16.3 mg/kg/d for adults. There was a statistically significant decrease in the number of vaso‐occlusive episodes lasting >48 h, acute chest syndrome episodes, hospitalizations, and the percentage of patients requiring blood transfusions within the first 12 months relative to the year before enrolment. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were the most commonly reported adverse effects. No new HU toxicity was identified. Overall, 125 pregnancies were reported in 101 women and no malformations were observed in the neonates. There were 12 pregnancies for partners of male patients treated with HU. One case of fatal myelodysplastic syndrome was reported, for which a causal association with HU could not be excluded. This cohort study of patients with SCD highlights the positive benefit‐to‐risk ratio of HU in children and adults.
A fluorinated chitosan‐based QuEChERS method for simultaneous determination of 20 organophosphorus pesticide residues in ginseng using GC–MS/MS
Authors: Yao Yunheng , Bai Longlv , Tian Haifeng , Wu Xinzi , Zhang Nianjie , Wu Lunpeng , Jia Yifan , Ren Xiuli
Published: July 2021

In this study, a new fluorinated methacrylamide (MACF) was synthesized and evaluated as an adsorbent in the dispersive solid‐phase extraction for the effective determination and extraction of 20 organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) from ginseng samples using the QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, safe) method coupled with GC–MS/MS. The properties of MACF were characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and high‐resolution 19F NMR. MACF, chitosan, primary and secondary amine, octadecylsilane, graphitized carbon black, Z‐Sep, Z‐Sep+, and EMR‐Lipid were compared in terms of extraction efficiency. The best results were obtained when MACF was used. Matrix‐matched calibration was employed for quantification. All the OPPs exhibited good linearity (r2 > 0.9969) with the concentration at their respective concentration ranges. The limits of detection were 1.5–3.0 μg/kg, and the limits of quantification were 5.0–10.0 μg/kg. The trueness of the 20 pesticides at four spiked levels ranged from 86.1 to 111.1%, and the relative standard deviation was less than 11.3%. The modified QuEChERS method using MACF as the adsorbent was sensitive, reliable, and cost‐effective and could be used for the determination of 20 OPP residues in ginseng.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement has not helped bridge the racial disparity gap
Authors: Postalian Alexander , Krajcer Zvonimir
Published: July 2021

Key Points

Differences in health outcomes by race and income are a significant public health problem.

The authors determined that the advent of TAVR has not significantly bridged the racial inequity gap for patients with aortic stenosis, probably because low‐income individuals have similarly limited access to both TAVR and SAVR.

Efforts to reduce this inequality must continue, and much more impactful changes than the introduction of a new procedure will be required.
Development of thalamus mediates paternal age effect on offspring reading: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Xia Zhichao , Wang Cheng , Hancock Roeland , Vandermosten Maaike , Hoeft Fumiko
Published: July 2021

The importance of (inherited) genetic impact in reading development is well established. De novo mutation is another important contributor that is recently gathering interest as a major liability of neurodevelopmental disorders, but has been neglected in reading research to date. Paternal age at childbirth (PatAGE) is known as the most prominent risk factor for de novo mutation, which has been repeatedly shown by molecular genetic studies. As one of the first efforts, we performed a preliminary investigation of the relationship between PatAGE, offspring's reading, and brain structure in a longitudinal neuroimaging study following 51 children from kindergarten through third grade. The results showed that greater PatAGE was significantly associated with worse reading, explaining an additional 9.5% of the variance after controlling for a number of confounds—including familial factors and cognitive‐linguistic reading precursors. Moreover, this effect was mediated by volumetric maturation of the left posterior thalamus from ages 5 to 8. Complementary analyses indicated the PatAGE‐related thalamic region was most likely located in the pulvinar nuclei and related to the dorsal attention network by using brain atlases, public datasets, and offspring's diffusion imaging data. Altogether, these findings provide novel insights into neurocognitive mechanisms underlying the PatAGE effect on reading acquisition during its earliest phase and suggest promising areas of future research.
Did the ACA's “guaranteed issue” provision cause adverse selection into nongroup insurance? Analysis using a copula‐based hurdle model
Authors: Marra Giampiero , Radice Rosalba , Zimmer David
Published: July 2021

Prior to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance companies could charge higher premiums, or outright deny coverage, to people with preexisting health problems. But the ACA's “guaranteed issue” provision forbids such price discrimination and denials of coverage. This paper seeks to determine whether, after implementation of the ACA, nongroup private insurance plans have experienced adverse selection. Our empirical approach employs a copula‐based hurdle regression model, with dependence modeled as a function of dimensions along which adverse selection might occur. Our main finding is that, after implementation of the ACA, nongroup insurance enrollees with preexisting health problems do not appear to exhibit adverse selection. This finding suggests that the ACA's mandate that everyone acquire coverage might have attracted enough healthy enrollees to offset any adverse selection.
Developing machine learning‐based snow depletion curves and analysing their sensitivity over complex mountainous areas
Authors: Hou Jinliang , Huang Chunlin , Chen Weijing , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2021

A snow depletion curve (SDC), the relationship between snow mass (e.g., snow depth [SD]) and fractional snow cover area (SCF), is essential to parameterize the effect of snowpack within a physically based snow model. Existing SDCs are constructed using traditional statistic methods may not be applicable in complex mountainous areas. In this study, we developed an information fusion framework to define the relationship between SCF and SD as well as 12 auxiliary factors by using a traditional statistical method and four prevailing machine learning (ML) algorithms, which have comprehensively considered the variable conditions that cause spatiotemporal heterogeneity of snow cover. We also performed a single‐dimensional sensitivity analysis to investigate the physical rationality of the newly developed SDCs. The Northern Xinjiang, Northwest China, is selected as the study area, and the data from 46 meteorological stations covering five snow seasons from 2010 to 2015 are used. The results illustrated that ML techniques can be used to establish high‐accuracy and robust SDCs for complex mountainous areas. Compared with SDCs constructed by traditional statistical, the performance of the four ML‐based SDCs is significantly improved, the RMSE values can be reduced by 50%, R2 above 0.75, and an average relative variance close to 0. ML‐based SDCs predicted SCF values showed a range of sensitivities to different input variables (e.g., Land surface temperature, aspect, longwave radiation and land cover type), in addition to SD, that were physically representative of effects that snow cover is sensitive to. Moreover, the complexity of SDCs can be reduced by removing insensitive input variables.
Identification of earthworm species in sand‐topdressed hybrid bermudagrass golf tees
Authors: Boyle Paige , Savin Mary , Richardson Michael , Karcher Douglas E.
Published: July 2021

On golf courses, casting – the egestion of feces – by earthworms on the turfgrass surface can affect playability, growth, and maintenance. The earthworm species responsible for surface casting vary depending on location, climate and weather, soil texture, and turfgrass management practices. The objective of this study was to determine earthworm density and species composition in native soil and sand‐based golf tees managed under different sand topdressing rates (heavy at 2.54 cm yr–1 or light at 0.64 cm yr–1) in Fayetteville, AR. Earthworms were collected December 2016 by hand sorting and identified using DNA extraction and sequencing. Light sand topdressing resulted in significantly greater earthworm density. Soil rootzone did not affect earthworm density, which may have resulted from variability in earthworm populations sampled. All communities were comprised primarily of Diplocardia spp.; however, lightly topdressed treatments included Bimastos parvus (Eisen, 1874) and both topdressing treatments included Microscolex phosphoreus (Dugès, 1837). Amynthas spp. were present in all treatments except the heavily topdressed native soil treatment.
Recessive white plumage color mutation of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) revealed morphological variations in the oropharyngeal roof structures, accompanied by behavioral differences
Authors: Sayed Ramy K. A. , El Shoukary Ramadan D.
Published: July 2021

Genetic background of experimental animals contributes mainly to the variations in the experimental outcomes. Therefore, quails of two lines of plumage color (brown and recessive white) were studied to investigate the impact of plumage color mutations on the morphological structures of the oropharyngeal roof and also on the ingestive behavior and quail performance. Feeding intake and feed conversion ratio were higher in the brown quails, associated with nonsignificant increase of the live body weight and body weight gain. In the recessive white quails, ingestive behaviors revealed significant declines. The roof of the oropharynx roof was significantly longer in the recessive white quails; however, the upper beak was significantly longer and narrower in the brown ones. The length of the palate and pharynx showed nonsignificant increase in the recessive white quails. The median palatine ridge was formed of rostral continuous and caudal interrupted parts, and the lengths of these parts were slightly higher in the recessive white quails, meanwhile the lateral palatine ridge length showed a slight increase in the brown birds. Openings of intraepithelial glands were more numerous in the recessive white quails. The brown quails demonstrated more detectable and larger caudally directed conical shaped palatine and pharyngeal papillae, in addition to more considerable palatine salivary glands openings. The infundibular cleft was significantly wider in the recessive white quails, where its edges were characterized by lack of the pharyngeal papillae. The findings of this study will be beneficial for the breeders during selection the suitable quail lines for meat production purposes.
Starch‐based antifungal edible coatings to control sour rot caused by Geotrichum citri‐aurantii and maintain postharvest quality of ‘Fino’ lemon
Authors: Soto‐Muñoz Lourdes , Martínez‐Blay Victoria , Pérez‐Gago María B , Fernández‐Catalán Asunción , Argente‐Sanchis Maricruz , Palou Lluís
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Two edible coating (EC) emulsions based on potato starch (F6 and F10) alone or formulated with sodium benzoate (SB, 2% w/w) (F6/SB and F10/SB) were evaluated to maintain postharvest quality of cold‐stored ‘Fino’ lemons and control sour rot on lemons artificially inoculated with Geotrichum citri‐aurantii. Previous research showed the potential of these ECs to improve the storability of ‘Orri’ mandarins and reduce citrus green and blue molds caused by Penicillum digitatum and Penicillium italicum, respectively.

RESULTS

The coatings F6/SB and F10/SB significantly reduced sour rot incidence and severity compared to uncoated control samples on lemons incubated at 28 °C for 4 and 7 days. The F6/SB coating reduced weight loss and gas exchange compared to uncoated fruit after 2 and 4 weeks of storage at 12 °C plus a shelf life of 1 week at 20 °C, without adversely affecting the lemon physicochemical quality.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the F6/SB coating formulation, composed of pregelatinized potato starch, glyceryl monostearate, glycerol, emulsifiers and SB, with a total solid content of 5.5%, showed the best results in reducing citrus sour rot and maintaining the postharvest quality of cold‐stored ‘Fino’ lemons. Therefore, it showed potential as a new cost‐effective postharvest treatment suitable to be included in integrated disease management programs for citrus international markets with zero tolerance to chemical residues. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Telemonitoring via Questionnaires Reduces Outpatient Healthcare Consumption in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Wijers Anke , Hochstenbach Laura , Tissingh Gerrit
Published: July 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is best managed by neurologists, traditionally including frequent doctor–patient contact. Because of a rise in PD prevalence and associated healthcare costs, this personnel‐intensive care may not be future proof. Telemedicine tools for home monitoring have shown to reduce healthcare consumption in several chronic diseases and also seem promising for PD.

Objective

To explore whether telemonitoring can reduce outpatient healthcare consumption in PD.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study with 116 outpatients with PD who used the telemedicine tool “myParkinsoncoach.” The tool involved periodic monitoring, feedback, knowledge modules, and text message functionality. Retrospective data about PD‐related healthcare consumption in the year before and after introduction of the tool were retrieved from the hospital information system. Additional data about tool‐related activities performed by nursing staff were logged prospectively for 3 months.

Results

There was a 29% reduction in the number of outpatient visits (P < 0.001) in the year after introduction of the tool compared with the year before. A 39% reduction was seen in overall PD‐related healthcare costs (P = 0.001). Similar results were found for patients ≥70 years old. Nursing staff spent on average 15.5 minutes per patient a month on monitoring the tool and follow‐up activities.

Conclusions

Study results demonstrate a significant reduction in PD‐related healthcare consumption using telemonitoring. Notably, these results were also found in elderly patients. Further research is needed to confirm these findings, preferably taking a broader perspective on healthcare consumption and within a larger, multicenter and prospective setup.
On the evolution of framed curves in Euclidean 3‐space
Authors: Yıldız Önder Gökmen
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we study the evolution of framed curves, which may have singular points. We express flows of framed curves in Euclidean 3‐space. We obtain necessary and sufficient conditions as partial differential equations involving the framed curvatures for the inextensible flow of framed curve. Also, we give examples for the evolution equation of framed curvatures.
Same‐day discharge across FPMRS surgical cases is safe and feasible: A 10‐year single‐surgeon experience
Authors: Zillioux Jacqueline , Werneburg Glenn T. , Goldman Howard B.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols and increased attention to value‐based care have led to the reconsideration of routine postoperative admission in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) cases. We aimed to assess trends in same‐day discharge (SDD) and associated readmissions and emergency room visits in a single‐surgeon 10‐year experience.

Methods

The electronic medical record was queried for 30‐day outcomes (readmission and emergency department visits with associated indications) for all cases performed between June 2010 and August 2020 by a single FPMRS surgeon. Non‐FPMRS specialty cases were excluded. Patient characteristics and 30‐day outcomes were compared based on SDD status for the overall cohort as well as the subset of cases traditionally involving an overnight stay (i.e., robotic transabdominal, apical prolapse repair).

Results

1793 surgeries were identified and analyzed, including 357 apical prolapse repairs, 370 slings, 392 neuromodulation and 114 complex mesh excisions. The majority (79.1%) had SDD. For admitted patients, mean length of stay was 1.5 (1.3) days. Among cases traditionally involving overnight stay, rates of SDD were significantly higher in 2020 than 2010 (84% vs. 32%, p < 0.001), and increased over time. Overall rates of 30‐day readmission and ED visits were low (1.9% and 2.6%, respectively) and did not differ based on SDD status (p = 0.76). Readmissions occurred at mean 11.6 (7.0) days, most commonly for urinary tract infection (13/34).

Conclusions

SDD is not associated with increased 30‐day readmission or ED visits across a wide breadth of FPMRS cases. SDD is safe and feasible in the majority of FPMRS cases.
Registration of ‘Lang‐MN’ hard red spring wheat
Authors: Anderson J.A. , Wiersma J.J. , Reynolds S.K. , Conley E.J. , Caspers R. , Linkert G.L. , Kolmer J.A. , Jin Y. , Rouse M.N. , Dill‐Macky R. , Smith M.J. , Dykes L. , Ohm J.‐B.
Published: July 2021

Fusarium head blight continues to be a threat to spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in the north‐central region of the United States. ‘Lang‐MN’ (Reg. no. CV‐1182, PI 687038) hard red spring wheat was released by the University of Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station in 2017 because it combines the best available Fusarium head blight resistance with high grain yield, grain protein concentration, and good end‐use quality characteristics. Lang‐MN is a mid‐late maturity cultivar that also has acceptable lodging resistance despite its above average plant height owing to its lack of the semi‐dwarfing genes Rht‐B1 or Rht‐D1 but presence of Rht24. Lang‐MN has good resistance to the prevalent races of leaf rust, stripe rust, and stem rust and is well adapted to the north‐central United States.
Classification of longitudinal brain networks with an application to understanding superior aging
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Zhengwu
Published: July 2021

This paper studies the problem of classifying longitudinal structural brain networks to identify meaningful substructures and their time‐varying effects. The problem is motivated by a subpopulation of healthy older adults who can maintain excellent cognitive functions across time, while others usually have cognitive decline in aging. It is of substantial scientific interest to study neurological mechanisms behind this successful aging phenomena; however, existing statistical tools for longitudinal networks are very limited. We propose a structured classification method that could identify a set of small outcome‐relevant subgraphs and estimate the age effect of each signal subgraph from the longitudinal network predictors, as well as an efficient algorithm for model estimation. Application of this method to the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) data identifies a small set of brain regions whose connectivity strengths are predictive of successful cognitive aging, which has more appealing interpretation and better predictive performance compared with unstructured classification methods.
Autonomous 3D geometry reconstruction through robot-manipulated optical sensors
Authors: Mineo Carmelo , Cerniglia Donatella , Ricotta Vito , Reitinger Bernhard
Published: July 2021

Many industrial sectors face increasing production demands and the need to reduce costs, without compromising the quality. The use of robotics and automation has grown significantly in recent years, but versatile robotic manipulators are still not commonly used in small factories. Beside of the investments required to enable efficient and profitable use of robot technology, the efforts needed to program robots are only economically viable in case of large lot sizes. Generating robot programs for specific manufacturing tasks still relies on programming trajectory waypoints by hand. The use of virtual simulation software and the availability of the specimen digital models can facilitate robot programming. Nevertheless, in many cases, the virtual models are not available or there are excessive differences between virtual and real setups, leading to inaccurate robot programs and time-consuming manual corrections. Previous works have demonstrated the use of robot-manipulated optical sensors to map the geometry of samples. However, the use of simple user-defined robot paths, which are not optimized for a specific part geometry, typically causes some areas of the samples to not be mapped with the required level of accuracy or to not be sampled at all by the optical sensor. This work presents an autonomous framework to enable adaptive surface mapping, without any previous knowledge of the part geometry being transferred to the system. The novelty of this work lies in enabling the capability of mapping a part surface at the required level of sampling density, whilst minimizing the number of necessary view poses. Its development has also led to an efficient method of point cloud down-sampling and merging. The article gives an overview of the related work in the field, a detailed description of the proposed framework and a proof of its functionality through both simulated and experimental evidences.
New drawbead tester and numerical analysis of drawbead closure force
Authors: Gil Imanol , Mendiguren Joseba , Galdos Lander , Mugarra Endika , Saenz de Argandoña Eneko
Published: July 2021

Currently, a great deal of controversy exists regarding the real forces generated in drawbeads during sheet metal forming processes. The present work focuses on the analysis of the uplift force. First, a detailed literature review is carried out to analyse previous experimental procedures used to measure uplift forces. It is found that previous setups do not perfectly replicate the real geometry of industrial drawbeads. In order to obtain reliable forces, an experimental drawbead tester capable of adequately replicating industrial drawbeads is developed. Later, a variety of steels ranging from mild steels to 3rd-generation ultra-high-strength steels are tested and reliable uplift and also restraining force values are obtained. The main purpose of the work is to share with the research community reliable experimental data that allows precise evaluation of the accuracy of current drawbead models and that supports the generation of new numerical and equivalent drawbead models. In parallel to the experimental procedure, a step forward in the understanding of the drawbead closing phenomena is also achieved through a 2D numerical model. The main purpose of the model is to identify the variables that greatly affect uplift force. Going beyond previous studies, in which some variables were analysed, the present work covers, in a holistic manner, the impact that material properties, the geometry of drawbeads and contact behaviour between sheet and drawbead have on the uplift force. It is determined that surprisingly minor geometrical deviations in the drawbead nominal geometry have a large impact on the uplift force.
Fear and loathing in VR: the emotional and physiological effects of immersive games
Authors: Lemmens Jeroen S. , Simon Monika , Sumter Sindy R.
Published: July 2021

Compared to traditional screen-based media, virtual reality (VR) generally leads to stronger feelings of presence. The current study aimed to investigate whether playing games in VR resulted in a stronger sense of presence than playing on a TV, and whether these feelings of presence affected players’ emotional and physiological responses to the games. Two experiments were conducted among 128 students, comparing the effects of playing either a survival horror game (N = 59) or a first-person shooter (N = 69) on a TV or in VR on physiological and subjective fear, hostility and enjoyment. Results showed that playing games in VR resulted in a stronger sense of presence, lower heart rate variability and a stronger subjective sense of fear. The feeling of presence thereby mediated the effects of VR on fear. The effects of playing a first-person shooter in VR on hostility were mixed, and gaming in VR was not more enjoyable than on TV. Regardless of the type of game or display medium, hostility increased significantly post-play. This study provides evidence that commercial VR games can affect feelings of presence and the physiological and emotional state of players.
Transitioning Responsibly Toward a Circular Bioeconomy: Using Stakeholder Workshops to Reveal Market Dependencies
Authors: Hoes Anne-Charlotte , van der Burg Simone , Overbeek Greet
Published: July 2021

This article reflects on the contribution that stakeholder involvement could give to circular bioeconomy transformation (CBE). By comparing argument for stakeholder involvement in literature as well as on our own experiences in six stakeholder involvement workshops, we argue that it is probably unrealistic to fully achieve both normative and co-design goals in a single workshop. Furthermore, stakeholder involvement can help to acquire insight into dependencies in the market and offer an opportunity to connect people to deal with them. Therefore we propose for future stakeholder involvement initiatives for CBE to focus on (1) identify relationships of dependency which make it hard for players in the market to change, (2) develop strategies to change while mitigating the detrimental effects on already existing relationships and (3) gradually breaking down relationships and building new ones that support CBE.
Unravelling the link between phthalate exposure and endometriosis in humans: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature
Authors: Conforti Alessandro , Carbone Luigi , Simeon Vittorio , Chiodini Paolo , Marrone Vincenzo , Bagnulo Francesca , Cariati Federica , Strina Ida , Alviggi Carlo
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Endometriosis is a chronic debilitating inflammatory pathology which interests females in their reproductive age. Its pathogenesis has not yet been clearly defined. Recent evidence linked chemical agents as endocrine-disrupting chemicals to endometriosis. Phthalates are a widely used class of such compounds. This study aimed to summarize the current literature evaluating the link between exposure to phthalates and occurrence of endometriosis.

Methods

A systematic review of literature and meta-analysis has been carried out following PRISMA guidelines to assess such link. Fourteen studies have been included in the review. Risk of bias has been assessed through the Newcastle Ottawa Scale.

Results

We observed association between endometriosis and increased urinary levels of MBP/MnBP, MEOHP, and MEHHP, but not for others. Blood-derived analysis showed statistically significant link between endometriosis and BBP, DEHP, DnBP, and MEHP.

Conclusion

Given the wide heterogeneity of included studies, results should be taken with caution. Further studies with more rigorous methodology are encouraged to unravel the true link between this class of toxic compounds and manifestation of endometriosis.
RV-TEE: secure cryptographic protocol execution based on runtime verification
Authors: Vella Mark , Colombo Christian , Abela Robert , Špaček Peter
Published: July 2021

Analytical security of cryptographic protocols does not immediately translate to operational security due to incorrect implementation and attacks targeting the execution environment. Code verification and hardware-based trusted execution solutions exist, however these leave it up to the implementer to assemble the complete solution, imposing a complete re-think of the hardware platforms and software development process. We rather aim for a comprehensive solution for secure cryptographic protocol execution, which takes the form of a trusted execution environment based on runtime verification and stock hardware security modules. RV-TEE can be deployed on existing platforms and protocol implementations. Runtime verification lends itself well at several conceptual levels of the execution environment, ranging from high level protocol properties, to lower level checks such as taint inference. The proposed architectural setup involving two runtime verification modules is instantiated through a case study using a popular web browser. We successfully monitor high and low level properties with promising results with respect to practicality.
The use of Net Promoter Score (NPS) to predict sales growth: insights from an empirical investigation
Authors: Baehre Sven , O’Dwyer Michele , O’Malley Lisa , Lee Nick
Published: July 2021

Net Promoter Score (NPS) has been widely adopted by managers as a measure of customer mindset and predictor of sales growth. Over time, practitioners have evolved the use of NPS from its original purpose as a transaction-based customer loyalty metric, towards a metric for tracking overall brand health which includes responses from non-customers. Despite enduring managerial popularity, academics remain skeptical of NPS, citing methodological issues and ongoing concerns with NPS measurement. This study re-visits the use of NPS as a predictor of sales growth by analyzing data from seven brands operating in the U.S. sportswear industry, measured over five years. Our results confirm—within the context of our study—that while the original premise of NPS is reasonable, the methodological concerns raised by academics are valid, and only the more recently developed brand health measure of NPS (using an all potential customer sample) is effective at predicting future sales growth.
Using PyC modified 3D carbon fiber to reinforce UHTC under low temperature sintering without pressure
Authors: Du Baihe , Cheng Yuan , Xun Liancai , Zhang Shuchang , Tong Jing , Lv Qingrong , Zhou Shanbao , Hu Ping , Zhang Xinghong
Published: July 2021

Finding the optimum balance between strength and toughness, as well as acquiring reliable thermal shock resistance and oxidation resistance, has always been the most concerned topic in the discussion of ultra-high temperature ceramic composites. Herein, PyC modified 3D carbon fiber is used to reinforce ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC). The macroscopic block composite with large size is successfully fabricated through low temperature sintering at 1300 °C without pressure. The prepared PyC modified 3D Cf/ZrC-SiC composites simultaneously possess excellent physical and chemical stability under the synergistic effect of PyC interface layer and low temperature sintering without pressure. The fracture toughness is increased in magnitude to 13.05 ± 1.72 MPa·m1/2 accompanied by reliable flexural strength of 251 ± 27 MPa. After rapid thermal shock spanning from room temperature (RT) to 1200 °C, there are no visible surface penetrating cracks, spalling, or structural fragmentation. The maximum critical temperature difference reaches 875 °C, which is nearly three times higher than that of traditional monolithic ceramics. The haunting puzzle of intrinsic brittleness and low damage tolerance are resolved fundamentally. Under the protection of PyC interface layer, the carbon fibers around oxide layer and matrix remain structure intact after static oxidation at 1500 °C for 30 min. The oxide layer has reliable physical and chemical stability and resists the erosion from fierce oxidizing atmosphere, ensuring the excellent oxidation resistance of the composites. In a sense, the present work provides promising universality in designability and achievement of 3D carbon fiber reinforced ceramic composites.
Predictors of Pursuing Intralesional Xiaflex in Peyronie’s Disease Patients
Authors: Punjani Nahid , Nascimento Bruno , Salter Carolyn , Flores Jose , Miranda Eduardo , Terrier Jean , Taniguchi Hisanori , Jenkins Lawrence , Mulhall John P.
Published: July 2021

Background

Intralesional collagenase such as Xiaflex (ILX) has become a standard treatment for Peyronie’s disease (PD). Many robust studies have demonstrated its clear efficacy in the treatment algorithm.

Aim

To examine predictors of the patient decision to pursue ILX in PD patients.

Methods

The study included PD patients (i) with stable disease (ii) who had doppler duplex ultrasonography (DUS) at least 6 months prior to analysis date and (iii) did not choose an operation. All patients received a standard discussion regarding treatment options, specifically, observation, ILX and penile reconstructive surgery (plication, plaque incision and grafting, implant surgery). Patients who opted to use ILX were compared to those who opted against it. Comorbidity, demographic and PD characteristics were recorded at the initial PD visit. All patients completed three validated questionnaires including the PD questionnaire (PDQ), Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire and a depression questionnaire (CES-D). Logistic regression was used to determine predictors of ILX use.

Outcomes

Predictors of ILX utilization.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fifty stable PD men had DUS completed 6 months before to allow sufficient time for treatment decision. Of these, 111 (24.7%) patients had ILX treatment and 339 (75.3%) did not. Mean age, relationship status and pain occurrence were similar between groups, but ILX patients had less bother defined as PDQ ≥ 9 (46.8% vs 53.7%, P = .02). ILX patients had more complex curves (79.3% vs 47.8%, P < .01) and more severe instability (32.4% vs 15.3%, P = .01). ILX patients also had higher PDQ domain scores (Psychological 11.5 ± 6.4 vs 7.5 ± 6.2, P < .01; Pain 6.2 ± 6.0 vs 4.3 ± 5.6, P = .02; and Bother 9.8 ± 4.7 vs 6.6 ± 4.8, P < .01). On univariable statistics, significant bother (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.36–4.28, P<0.01), complex curvature (OR 4.18, 95%CI 2.52–6.93, P < .01), moderate and/or severe instability (OR 1.98, 95%CI 1.18–3.30, P < .01) and PDQ-Bother scores (OR 1.15, 95%CI 1.08–1.22 P < .01) predicted ILX use. On multivariable analysis, instability (OR 2.58, 95%CI 1.02–6.57, P = .05) and significant bother (OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.04–1.45, P = .01) predicted ILX use.

Clinical Implications

Educates providers as to which patients are more likely to choose ILX.

Strengths & Limitations

Our study has a large sample size and all patients received the same standardized treatment discussion. Our study is limited by the absence of insurance data on all patients, and its retrospective single center design.

CONCLUSION

ILX was chosen by the minority of stable PD patients. While moderate to severe instability and significant bother is predictive of ILX use, other demographic factors including relationship status, sexual orientation or pain were not.
Where does the Coronavirus come from? On the mechanisms underlying the endorsement of conspiracy theories on the origin of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Vezzoni Cristiano , Dotti Sani Giulia M. , Chiesi Antonio M. , Ladini Riccardo , Biolcati Ferruccio , Guglielmi Simona , Maggini Nicola , Maraffi Marco , Molteni Francesco , Pedrazzani Andrea , Segatti Paolo
Published: July 2021

While official science has given its answer to the question on the origin of the Coronavirus (animal to human transmission), alternative theories on human creation of the virus – purposely or inadvertently – have flourished. Those alternative theories can be easily located among the family of conspiracy theories, as they always assume some secretive activity of some groups acting on their self-interest and against the good of the many. The article assesses the prevalence of these beliefs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy, studies its development during the pandemic, and investigates its potential determinants. In particular, it analyses the relationship between beliefs in alternative theories on the origin of the virus and political orientation, by arguing that the association cannot be attributed to (politically) motivated reasoning, as the issue has not been highly politicized in the Italian context. Alternatively, the article suggests that the main factor driving beliefs in alternative accounts on the origins of the virus is institutional trust. Political orientation moderates its effects, depending on specific conditions (e.g. cue taking, position of the supported party either in government or opposition), and eventually reinforcing scepticism towards epistemic authorities for those with low trust in institutions. Data come from the ResPOnsE COVID-19 survey, carried out with daily samples from April to July 2020 (N > 15.000) to monitor the development of the Italian public opinion during the Coronavirus pandemic.
COERCION ON HOLY DAYS IN THE MIDDLE AGES
Authors: Kirkland J. S.
Published: July 2021

The Middle Ages are not usually considered an era when the law was friendly to laborers. Numerous regulations in medieval England were very unfriendly to them. However, religious laws—that is, canon law—did act to protect laborers when it came to working on holy days. Examining cases in the ecclesiastical courts, this article traces discussions concerning who was to blame, from theory into practice, when masters compelled their subordinates to work on holy days. Differing ideas on how to assign blame were ultimately reflected in the ecclesiastical courts. Some courts prosecuted only masters, while others prosecuted both masters and subordinates.
Serum antibodies blocked by glycan antigens in canine visceral leishmaniasis serology are mostly IgA immune complexes
Authors: Aparecida de Carvalho Camila , Mitsuyoshi Hiramoto Roberto , Regina Meireles Luciana , Franco de Andrade Júnior Heitor
Published: July 2021

Immune complexes (ICs) are found in canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) and interfere with the serum detection of antibodies. Dissociation of these monovalent complexes by dissociative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) removes false-negative results and allows some characterization of antibodies and antigens. We studied the serology of dogs with suspected CVL in an endemic area, testing two Leishmania (Leishmania) [L. (L.)] infantum antigens. We analysed the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies specific to promastigote soluble extract (PSE) and low-molecular weight glycans (glycan–bovine serum albumin (BSA) complex – GBC) by conventional and dissociative ELISA. Our results showed a significant fraction of IgA ICs (46.5% for PSE and 47.6% for GBC), followed by IgG ICs (10% for PSE and 23.5% for GBC). IgM ICs were more frequent for PSE (22.7%). Hypergammaglobulinaemia in CVL would be related to the presence of IgA and IgG ICs, resulting in deficient elimination of these antibodies. Our data confirmed the presence of ICs that can generate false-negative results in conventional serology. The production of IgA antibodies and the high frequency of blockade by glycan antigens suggest the active participation of this immunoglobulin and its ICs in the immunopathology of CVL, indicating a new path for further research.
Life Cycles in Social Science History
Authors: Abbott Andrew
Published: July 2021

When one is asked to speak on the past, present, and future of social science history, one is less overwhelmed by the size of the task than confused by its indexicality. Whose definition of social science history? Which past? Or, put another way, whose past? Indeed, which and whose present? Moreover, should the task be taken as one of description, prescription, or analysis? Many of us might agree on, say, a descriptive analysis of the past of the Social Science History Association. But about the past of social science history as a general rather than purely associational phenomenon, we might differ considerably. The problem of description versus prescription only increases this obscurity.