bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The semantics of exceptives
Authors: Peters Stanley , Westerståhl Dag
Published: July 2022

This paper gives a uniform account of the meaning of generalizations with explicit exceptions that employ the prepositions “but”, “except”, and “except for”. Our theory is that exceptives depend on generalizations, which can but need not be universal, whose generality they limit, and some of whose exceptions they comment on. Every generalization intrinsically partitions its domain of applicability into regular cases, which are as it says to expect, and exceptions, which are not. A generalization’s exceptions are instances that falsify it if sufficiently prevalent. These two facts underpin the meaning of exceptives as combining a generality claim with an exception claim, giving correct truth conditions for the several ways the three exceptive prepositions are used, and significantly improving on existing semantic accounts in the literature. We support this by analyzing a wide range of examples. The analysis applies whether or not the phrase following the exceptive preposition is a DP, and whether or not the generalization is expressed with a quantifier. We further argue that these exceptive prepositions are synonymous, contrary to the widely held view that a difference in meaning explains their different syntactic distributions.
Optimizing subgraph matching over distributed knowledge graphs using partial evaluation
Authors: Song Yanyan , Qin Yuzhou , Hao Wenqi , Liu Pengkai , Li Jianxin , Choudhury Farhana Murtaza , Wang Xin , Zhang Qingpeng
Published: July 2022

The partial evaluation and assembly framework has recently been applied for processing subgraph matching queries over large-scale knowledge graphs in the distributed environment. The framework is implemented on the master-slave architecture, endowed with outstanding scalability. However, there are two drawbacks of partial evaluation: if the volume of intermediate results is large, a large number of repeated partial matches will be generated; and the assembly computation handled by the master would be a bottleneck. In this paper, we propose an optimal partial evaluation algorithm and a filter method to reduce partial matches by exploring the computing characteristics of partial evaluation and assembly framework. (1) An index structure named inner boundary node index (IBN-Index) is constructed to prune for graph exploration to improve the searching efficiency of the partial evaluation phase. (2) The boundary characteristics of local partial matches are utilized to construct a boundary node index (BN-Index) to reduce the number of local partial matches. (3) The experimental results over benchmark datasets show that our approach outperforms the state-of-the-art methods.
Retinal abnormalities, although relatively common in sleep clinic patients referred for polysomnography, are largely unrelated to sleep-disordered breathing
Authors: Amis Terence C. , Perri Rita , Lee Sharon , Wickens Meredith , Liew Gerald , Mitchell Paul , Kairaitis Kristina , Wheatley John R.
Published: July 2022

Study objectives.

There has been long-standing interest in potential links between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and eye disease. This study used retinal photography to identify undiagnosed retinal abnormalities in a cohort of sleep clinic patients referred for polysomnography (PSG) and then determined associations with PSG-quantified sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) severity.

Methods

Retinal photographs (n = 396 patients) were taken of each eye prior to polysomnography and graded according to validated, standardized, grading scales. SDB was quantified via in-laboratory polysomnography (PSG; n = 385) using standard metrics. A questionnaire (n = 259) documented patient-identified pre-existing eye disease. Within-group prevalence rates were calculated on a per patient basis. Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models to determine independent predictors for retinal abnormalities. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Main findings were (1) 76% of patients reported no pre-existing “eye problems”; (2) however, 93% of patients had at least one undiagnosed retinal photograph-identified abnormality; (3) most common abnormalities were drusen (72%) and peripapillary atrophy (PPA; 47%); (4) age was the most common risk factor; (5) diabetes history was an expected risk factor for retinopathy; (6) patients with very severe levels of SDB (apnea hypopnea index ≥ 50 events/h) were nearly three times more likely to have PPA.

Conclusion

Retinal photography in sleep clinic settings will likely detect a range of undiagnosed retinal abnormalities, most related to patient demographics and comorbidities and, except for PPA, not associated with SDB. PPA may be indicative of glaucoma, and any association with severe SDB should be confirmed in larger prospective studies.
The Right to Associational Freedom and the Scope of Relationship-Dependent Duties
Authors: Betzler Monika
Published: July 2022

Humans have a fundamental need to belong. This, need, as Kimberley Brownlee argues in her book Being Sure of Each Other grounds the human right against social deprivation. But in addition to having a human right against social deprivation, we also have a right to associational freedom, which is grounded in our right to autonomy. We cannot be forced into relationships; we are free to choose our friends and loved ones.? In this paper I discuss what our right to associational freedom morally permits us to do when are already in an intimate relationship and, relatedly, what our relationship-dependent duties require of us in such cases. What exactly are the constraints on our right to associational freedom? And what is the content and scope of our relationship-dependent duties, given that our right to associational freedom conflicts with the fulfillment of these duties?? After providing some clarifications as to how we should understand intimate relationships that have ended, I will first highlight what relationship-dependent duties are and how they correlate with a right to associational control. I will then discuss several break-up scenarios, the aim of which is to determine the conditions that justify constraints being imposed on the right to associational freedom and to delineate the scope of relationship-dependent duties.
Mixed-effect models with trees
Authors: Gottard Anna , Vannucci Giulia , Grilli Leonardo , Rampichini Carla
Published: July 2022

Tree-based regression models are a class of statistical models for predicting continuous response variables when the shape of the regression function is unknown. They naturally take into account both non-linearities and interactions. However, they struggle with linear and quasi-linear effects and assume iid data. This article proposes two new algorithms for jointly estimating an interpretable predictive mixed-effect model with two components: a linear part, capturing the main effects, and a non-parametric component consisting of three trees for capturing non-linearities and interactions among individual-level predictors, among cluster-level predictors or cross-level. The first proposed algorithm focuses on prediction. The second one is an extension which implements a post-selection inference strategy to provide valid inference. The performance of the two algorithms is validated via Monte Carlo studies. An application on INVALSI data illustrates the potentiality of the proposed approach.
The association between coronary artery disease and osteoporosis: a population-based longitudinal study in Taiwan
Authors: Syu De-Kai , Hsu Shu-Hua , Yeh Ping-Chun , Kuo Yu-Feng , Huang Yen-Chun , Jiang Ching-Chuan , Chen Mingchih
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This large population-based study is the first to analyze the association between coronary artery disease (CAD) and osteoporosis (OP) from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan to determine if CAD is associated with OP.

Methods

Data from NHIRD, a national, population-based, retrospective, matched cohort study of 23 million patients, were collected to recruit two matched cohorts: with (n = 192,367) and without (n = 192,367) CAD. The Cox model was used to compare the incidence rate ratio and crude hazard ratio (HR) between the two cohorts for osteoporotic fracture and OP.

Results

The CAD cohort had a significantly increased risk for vertebral compression fracture, with an adjusted HR of 1.74 (95% CI, 1.60–1.89). The cumulative incidence of OP was also statistically higher in the cohort versus without CAD (11.6% vs. 5.6%; p ≤ 0.0001, log-rank) during the 10-year follow-up period. The Cox model showed a 2.04-fold increase in the incidence of OP in the CAD cohort, with an adjusted HR of 2.04 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.99–2.08).

Conclusions

A positive association exists between CAD and development of subsequent osteoporotic fracture and OP. Patients with CAD have a significantly increased risk of developing vertebral compression fracture and a higher incident rate ratio of OP.

Trial registration

IRB approval number: No. C108094 on February 19, 2020.
Barriers to accessing aeroallergen immunotherapy in paediatrics
Authors: Trayer James , Byrne Aideen , Elnazir Basil
Published: July 2022

Background

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a safe, effective and disease-modifying treatment for allergic rhinitis. It is indicated for children with moderate to severe disease whose symptoms persist despite conventional therapy. There is a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis amongst Irish children; however, levels of AIT prescribing in Ireland are lower than neighbouring countries.

Aims

The aims of this study are to describe current patterns of AIT prescribing and referrals amongst Irish paediatricians and to identify barriers to accessing AIT in Ireland.

Methods

An electronic questionnaire was distributed to all paediatricians and paediatric trainees caring for children with allergic rhinitis.

Results

A lack of knowledge of AIT clinical criteria was the most frequently reported barrier with 50.5% (50/99) of general paediatricians unaware of the indications for referral compared to 27.3% (3/11) of respiratory physicians and 0% (0/8) of allergists. Accessibility is the next most cited barrier with 31.4% (37/118) of respondents unsure where to refer and 19.5% (23/118) reporting a lack of local services. Cost was reported to be a barrier by 12.7% (15/118). Paediatricians with an allergy or respiratory subspecialisation reported seeing significantly higher numbers of children with allergic rhinitis and were more likely to prescribe or refer a child for AIT.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated positive attitudes towards AIT amongst all grades and specialities of paediatricians in Ireland. The main barriers to more widespread use are difficulties with the identification of suitable candidates by general paediatricians and a lack of local AIT services and referral pathways.
Hospital mortality and length of stay differences in emergency medical admissions related to ‘on-call’ specialty
Authors: Conway Richard P. , Byrne Declan G. , O’Riordan Deirdre M. R. , Silke Bernard
Published: July 2022

Background

The outcomes of acute medical admissions have been shown to be influenced by a variety of factors including system, patient, societal, and physician-specific differences.

Aim

To evaluate the influence of on-call specialty on outcomes in acute medical admissions.

Methods

All acute medical admissions to our institution from 2015 to 2020 were evaluated. Admissions were grouped based on admitting specialty. Thirty-day in-hospital mortality and length of stay (LOS) were evaluated. Data was analysed using multivariable logistic regression and truncated Poisson regression modelling.

Results

There were 50,347 admissions in 30,228 patients. The majority of admissions were under Acute Medicine (47.0%), and major medical subspecialties (36.1%); Elderly Care admitted 12.1%. Acute Medicine admissions were older at 72.9 years (IQR 57.0, 82.9) vs. 67.2 years (IQR 50.1, 80.2), had higher Acute Illness Severity (grades 4–6: 85.9% vs. 81.3%; p < 0.001), Charlson Index (> group 0; 61.5% vs. 54.6%; p < 0.001), and Comorbidity Score (40.7% vs. 36.7%; p < 0.001). Over time, there was a small (+ 8%) but significant increase in 30-day in-hospital mortality. Mortality rates for Acute Medicine, major medical specialties, and Elderly Care were not different at 5.1% (95% CI: 4.7, 5.5), 4.7% (95% CI: 4.3, 5.1), and 4.7% (95% CI: 3.9, 5.4), respectively. Elderly Care admissions had shorter LOS (7.8 days (95% CI: 7.6, 8.0)) compared with either Acute Medicine (8.7 days (95% CI: 8.6, 8.8)) or major medical specialties (8.7 days (95% CI: 8.6, 8.9)).

Conclusion

No difference in mortality and minor differences in LOS were observed. The prior pattern of improved outcomes year on year for emergency medical admissions appears ended.
Mobile money for women’s economic empowerment: the mediating role of financial management practices
Authors: Dorfleitner Gregor , Nguyen Quynh Anh
Published: July 2022

This article examines whether mobile money adoption contributes to women’s economic empowerment, and considers the mediating effect of financial management behavior. Cross-sectional data analysis is conducted utilizing a sample of women in seven countries across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. We also investigate whether these effects vary between rural and urban areas. Three measures of mobile money adoption are considered to reflect the process of engaging in mobile money services. We find supportive evidence for the impact of mobile money adoption on women’s economic empowerment and the influencing mechanism of financial management behavior for the whole sample and the rural sub-sample. Moreover, the results are consistent for three alternative measures of mobile money adoption. Our findings suggest that mobile money can be harnessed to promote women’s economic empowerment; however, the impact appears to be greater if women are equipped with proper financial management skills.
Methanolic Extract of Boswellia serrata Gum Protects the Nigral Dopaminergic Neurons from Rotenone-Induced Neurotoxicity
Authors: Shadfar Sina , Khanal Shristi , Bohara Ganesh , Kim Geumjin , Sadigh-Eteghad Saeed , Ghavami Saeid , Choi Hyukjae , Choi Dong-Young
Published: July 2022

Boswellia serrata gum is a natural product that showed beneficial effects on neurodegenerative diseases in recent studies. In this study, we investigated the effects of Boswellia serrata resin on rotenone-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity. Firstly, we attempted to see if the resin can induce AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway which has been known to have broad neuroprotective effects. Boswellia increased AMPK phosphorylation and reduced phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) and α-synuclein (p-α-synuclein) in the striatum while increased the expression level of Beclin1, a marker for autophagy and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Next, we examined the neuroprotective effects of the Boswellia extract in the rotenone-injected mice. The results showed that Boswellia evidently attenuated the loss of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and microglial activation caused by rotenone. Moreover, Boswellia ameliorated rotenone-induced decrease in the striatal dopamine and impairment in motor function. Accumulation of α-synuclein meditated by rotenone was significantly ameliorated by Boswellia. Also, we showed that β-boswellic acid, the active constituents of Boswellia serrata gum, induced AMPK phosphorylation and attenuated α-synuclein phosphorylation in SHSY5 cells. These results suggest that Boswellia protected the dopaminergic neurons from rotenone neurotoxicity via activation of the AMPK pathway which might be associated with attenuation of α-synuclein aggregation and neuroinflammation. Further investigations are warranted to identify specific molecules in Boswellia which are responsible for the neuroprotection.
Modelling road cycling as motion on a curve
Authors: Nee P. J. , Herterich J. G.
Published: July 2022

We present a mathematical model of road cycling on arbitrary routes using the Frenet–Serret frame. The route is embedded in the coupled governing equations. We describe the mathematical model and numerical implementation. The dynamics are governed by a balance of forces of gravity, drag, and friction, along with pedalling or braking. We analyse steady-state speed and power against gradient and curvature. The centripetal acceleration is used as a control to determine transitions between pedalling and braking. In our model, the rider looks ahead at the curvature of the road by a distance dependent on the current speed. We determine such a distance (1–3 s at current speed) for safe riding and compare with the mean power. The results are based on a number of routes including flat and downhill, with variations in maximum curvature, and differing number of bends. We find the braking required to minimise centripetal acceleration occurs before the point of maximum curvature, thereby allowing acceleration by pedalling out of a bend.
Uncovering the identity of Electronic Markets research through text mining techniques
Authors: Nahr Nora , Heikkilä Marikka
Published: July 2022

As an established academic journal in the e-commerce and digital platforms fields, Electronic Markets (EM) features a diverse range of topics and occupies a significant role in the information systems field. The study investigates EM’s topic diversity over the time period 2009–2020 using a text mining analysis and a bibliometric analysis and identifies 28 cluster groups. The analysis reveals that the top three topics are 1) service quality, 2) blockchain and other shared trust building solutions, their impact and credibility, as well as 3) consumer buying behavior and interactions. EM's core identity lies in a balanced set of core themes that bring technological, business or human/ social perspectives to the research of networked business and digital economy. This includes research on digital and smart services, applications, consumer behavior and business models, as well as technology and e-commerce data. Ethical and sustainability related topics are however still less present in EM.
Ipsilateral Cervicodeltopectoral Flap: A Forgotten Technique, Revival in the Era of Microvascular Reconstruction
Authors: Usman Nawaz , Dikhit Punit Singh , Kumar Naveena A. N. , Shetty Preethi S. , Rajan Keshava , Vittamsetti V. N. R. , Dinker Diksha , Jose Anmi
Published: July 2022

Oral cavity cancer is one of the most common cancers in India responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in Indian subcontinent. Majority of cases present in advanced stages which requires extensive reconstruction following tumor resection. Microvascular free flap reconstruction is now considered standard of care for reconstruction for major head and neck skin-mucosal defects but, many factors still act as hindrance like patient’s comorbidities, long operating hours for microvascular reconstruction, logistic and financial issues from patient’s side. In such situation it is better to have a backup plan for reconstruction of major head and neck defects using pedicled flaps. Pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap has been the workhorse flap for head and neck reconstruction since its introduction four decades ago. But relying too much on PMMC flap for major skin-mucosal defects especially in female patients is associated with complications and risk for flap failure leading to catastrophic and significant patient morbidities. Our study involves the use of two flaps for head and neck reconstuction involving skin-mucosal defects i.e PMMC flap for mucosal defect and cervicodeltopectoral (CDP) flap for skin defect. As of now there has been no retrospective or prospective study done which has given a conclusive statement regarding use of these two flaps simultaneously for head and neck reconstruction to the best of our knowledge. In our experience from the present study, CDP flap offers an excellent alternative for extensive head and neck reconstruction and can be readily included in the surgeon’s armamentarium with proper planning and meticulous handling.
Folic Acid Determination in Food Samples Using Green Synthesized Copper Oxide Nanoparticles and Electro-Poly (Methyl Orange) Sensor
Authors: Hasan Ibrahem M. A. , Abd-Elsabur Keriman M. , Assaf Fawzy H. , Abd-Elsabour Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Copper (II) oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were green synthesized using Ocimum basilicum leaves aqueous extract in which polyphenols act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The synthesized CuONPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The analyses indicated the formation of crystalline rod-like monoclinic pure CuONPs with a mean grain size of 15 nm, a surface area of 396 m2 g−1, and a total pore volume of 0.71 cm3 g−1. A glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified using the synthesized CuONPs and electropolymerized poly(methyl orange) (PMO). The modified PMO/CuONPs/GCE electrode was electrochemically characterized and applied for the estimation of folic acid (FA) by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, linear sweep voltammetry, and differential pulse voltammetry techniques. The influence of pH (7), scan rate (50 mV/s), supporting electrolyte (0.1 M KCl) and FA concentration has been optimized. FA is precisely determined in the range from 0.01 to 1.5 µΜ with a low detection limit (0.002 µΜ), a low quantitation limit (0.068 µΜ), high reproducibility (RSD 0.37, 10 measurements), and high stability (98% activity after 50 days). FA in food samples was determined by the new sensor with high recoveries from 93 to 108.8%.

Graphical Abstract
Anti-prostate cancer protection and therapy in the framework of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine — comprehensive effects of phytochemicals in primary, secondary and tertiary care
Authors: Mazurakova Alena , Samec Marek , Koklesova Lenka , Biringer Kamil , Kudela Erik , Al-Ishaq Raghad Khalid , Pec Martin , Giordano Frank A. , Büsselberg Dietrich , Kubatka Peter , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: July 2022

According to the GLOBOCAN 2020, prostate cancer (PCa) is the most often diagnosed male cancer in 112 countries and the leading cancer-related death in 48 countries. Moreover, PCa incidence permanently increases in adolescents and young adults. Also, the rates of metastasising PCa continuously grow up in young populations. Corresponding socio-economic burden is enormous: PCa treatment costs increase more rapidly than for any other cancer. In order to reverse current trends in exploding PCa cases and treatment costs, pragmatic decisions should be made, in favour of advanced populational screening programmes and effective anti-PCa protection at the level of the health-to-disease transition (sub-optimal health conditions) demonstrating the highest cost-efficacy of treatments. For doing this, the paradigm change from reactive treatments of the clinically manifested PCa to the predictive approach and personalised prevention is essential.

Phytochemicals are associated with potent anti-cancer activity targeting each stage of carcinogenesis including cell apoptosis and proliferation, cancer invasiveness and metastatic disease. For example, their positive effects are demonstrated for stabilising and restoring mitochondrial health quality, which if compromised is strongly associated with sub-optimal health conditions and strong predisposition to aggressive PCa sub-types. Further, phytochemicals significantly enhance response of cancer cells to anti-cancer therapies including radio- and chemotherapy. Evident plant-based mitigation of negative side-effects frequently observed for conventional anti-cancer therapies has been reported. Finally, dual anti-cancer and anti-viral effects of phytochemicals such as these of silibinin have been demonstrated as being highly relevant for improved PCa management at the level of secondary and tertiary care, for example, under pandemic conditions, since PCa-affected individuals per evidence are highly vulnerable towards COVID-19 infection.

Here, we present a comprehensive data analysis towards clinically relevant anti-cancer effects of phytochemicals to be considered for personalised anti-PCa protection in primary care as well as for an advanced disease management at the level of secondary and tertiary care in the framework of predictive, preventive and personalised medicine.
First Italian report of a liver abscess and metastatic endogenous endophthalmitis caused by ST-23 hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae in an immunocompetent individual
Authors: De Francesco Maria A. , Tiecco Giorgio , Scaltriti Erika , Piccinelli Giorgio , Corbellini Silvia , Gurrieri Francesca , Crosato Verena , Moioli Giovanni , Marchese Valentina , Focà Emanuele , Bertelli Davide A. , Castelli Francesco , Caruso Arnaldo
Published: July 2022

Background

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a common species in the gut of mammals and is widely distributed in the environment. However, the environmental source of hvKp that precedes gut colonization is unclear, but once that it reaches the gut there is a possible generalized spread y fecal-oral transmission especially in endemic areas. Liver abscess might develop when the bacteria, using its virulence factors, cross the intestinal barrier and invade the liver by the portal circulation. This syndrome, prevalent mostly in Asian countries, is increasingly reported in Western Countries and leaves open questions about the source of infection.

Case

Here we describe for the first time in Italy, a case of pyogenic liver abscess caused by a hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (HvKp) complicated by endophthalmitis and other metastatic infections in lung and prostate in an immunocompetent Chinese healthy individual with no recent travel in Asia.

Conclusion

This case underlines the need for increased awareness of hypervirulent K. pneumoniae, even in settings where it occurs infrequently and where there are not evident epidemiological links.
Die Biomarker TIMP-2 und IGFBP7 in der Diagnostik der Niereninsuffizienz
Authors: Oremek G. M. , Passek K. , von der Eltz V. , Dröge J. , Bendels M.
Published: July 2022

Die vorliegende Übersicht über die Biomarkern TIMP‑2 („tissue inhibitor of metalloprokinase 2“) und IGFBP7 („insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7“) wird im Rahmen der Serie „Biomarker“ des Zentralblatts für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie publiziert. Die Marker TIMP‑2 und IGFBP7 eignen sich zur Abschätzung der Nierenschädigung und zur frühen Diagnostik der akuten Niereninsuffizienz. Hier zeigen diese eine hohe Sensitivität und Spezifität.
External Acoustical Damping on a Metallic Angle Wedge in a High Temperature Resistant Ultrasonic Probe
Authors: Shapovalov Oleg , Heckel Thomas , Gaal Mate , Weiß Sabine
Published: July 2022

Ultrasonic probes for high-temperature applications are provided with metallic wedges, which can withstand the contact with the high temperature of the inspected structure. The ultrasonic signal travels within the wedge and gets reflected from its boundaries, causing interference signals called “ghost echoes”. The current work presents an investigation of the additional damping effect provided by porous sintered metal plates applied onto the surface of the wedge. In particular, the study evaluates the effect of damping plate thickness on the interference signal level at different transmission frequencies. Damping plates made of sintered metal SIKA-R 15 AX were attached to a wedge prototype made of steel 1.4301. The study revealed, that the most effective thickness of damping plates in the selected frequency interval of 1 to 4 MHz is equal to 4 mm. The evaluation of the interference signal has shown that the application of such damping plates to the wedge surface contributes to an additional attenuation of an interference signal of 10 to 30 dB after 500 µs of signal propagation.
The Hilbert modular group and orthogonal groups
Authors: Hauffe-Waschbüsch Adrian , Krieg Aloys
Published: July 2022

We derive an explicit isomorphism between the Hilbert modular group and certain congruence subgroups on the one hand and particular subgroups of the special orthogonal groupSO(2, 2) on the other hand. The proof is based on an application of linear algebra adapted to number theoretical needs.
Towards an effective application of parameter estimation and uncertainty analysis to mathematical groundwater models
Authors: Herrera Paulo A. , Marazuela Miguel Angel , Formentin Giovanni , Hofmann Thilo
Published: July 2022

Groundwater models serve as support tools to among others: assess water resources, evaluate management strategies, design remediation systems and optimize monitoring networks. Thus, the assimilation of information from observations into models is crucial to improve forecasts and reduce uncertainty of their results. As more information is collected routinely due to the use of automatic sensors, data loggers and real time transmission systems; groundwater modelers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of using sophisticated tools to perform model calibration in combination with sensitivity and uncertainty analysis. Despite their usefulness, available approaches to perform this kind of analyses still present some challenges such as non-unique solution for the parameter estimation problem, high computational burden and a need of a deep understanding of the theoretical basis for the correct interpretation and use of their results, in particular the ones related to uncertainty analysis. We present a brief derivation of the main equations that serve as basis for this kind of analysis. We demonstrate how to use them to estimate parameters, assess the sensitivity and quantify the uncertainty of the model results using an example inspired by a real world setting. We analyze some of the main pitfalls that can occur when performing such kind of analyses and comment on practical approaches to overcome them. We also demonstrate that including groundwater flow estimations, although helpful in constraining the solution of the inverse problem as shown previously, may be difficult to apply in practice and, in some cases, may not provide enough information to significantly constrain the set of potential solutions. Therefore, this article can serve as a practitioner-oriented introduction for the application of parameter estimation and uncertainty analysis to groundwater models.
Exploring the O2O (online to offline) marketing design of electric vehicles based on consumers’ emotions
Authors: Lin Chih-Kuan , Shen Kai-Shuan
Published: July 2022

In this study, we present how electric car marketing makes a practical appeal to elicit consumers’ emotions by its unique design characteristics to determine the essential attractive features that are beneficial for promoting the sales of this type of promising vehicle. Thus, we investigate why consumers prefer electric vehicles to fuel cars and what specific characteristics make them willing to own electric vehicles. Furthermore, the preference-based research method is applied to reveal the underlying meaning behind the appeal of electric cars in this study. Hence, this study uses the evaluation grid method to collect professional concepts and establish a semantic hierarchical diagram of preferences for electric vehicles. Then, quantification theory type I is used to analyze the questionnaire survey of consumers’ preferences. The three best original evaluation items of electric cars are determined, including “scenario-based,” “accessible,” and “visionary.” This study provides essential information for managers, designers, and researchers of electric vehicles. The study also contributes to the design, marketing, and consumer psychology.
Effect of copper oxide@boron nitride nanosheet hybrid nanocomposite on tribological properties of paraffin liquid
Authors: Gao Xiaohong , Wang Yizheng , Wang Yao , Wang Yanming , Li Ping , Zhang Zhixiao , Li Feibo , Feng Huixia , Li Zongqi , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: July 2022

Due to the significant friction-reduction and anti-wear properties of nano particle, nano copper oxide (CuO) particle decorating on boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) nanocomposites are fabricated with polydopamine (PDA) as the linking agent. The structural and morphological characteristics of the CuO@BNNS composite are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction patterns, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The synergistic effect of CuO and BNNS on extreme pressure of lubrication oil are investigated. A four-ball tribometer is adopted to investigate the tribological behaviors of the as-prepared oil with different additives. Optical microscope and SEM are used to analyze the topography of worn surface. Energy dispersive spectroscopy is adopted to investigate the element distribution on worn surface. The results demonstrate that the CuO@BNNS nanoparticle could effectively improve the friction-reduction and anti-wear properties of the paraffin liquid, compared to paraffin liquid containing modified CuO (f-CuO) or PDA-BNNS respectively. The worn surface of steel ball presents smooth morphology for oil containing CuO@BNNS, contrast to oil containing f-CuO or PDA-BNNS respectively. With the tribo-film formation on the worn surface, the elements distribute uniformly on the worn surface for oil containing CuO@BNNS. Compared to lower load, the effect of load-carrying capacity and easy-shear property of CuO@BNNS outstand under 392 N, which results in the smooth worn surface compared to oil containing other additives.

Article Highlights

CuO@BNNS hybrid nanoparticle was prepared with a simple and mild method.

CuO@BNNS presents superior anti-friction and anti-wear properties due to the synergistic effect of nanoparticle.

The result obtained in the paper promotes the application of h-BN based nanocomposites in tribology.
Microstructure and properties of vacuum electron beam welded WE43 magnesium alloy joint
Authors: Lei Sheng , Zhang Xiang , Xu Haili , Hu Shanshan , Xue Zhengwei , Huang Zhonghao
Published: July 2022

This study presents the microstructure and properties of vacuum electron beam welded WE43 magnesium alloy joint. The process parameters of acceleration voltage 150 kV, electron beam current 120 mA and welding speed 35 mm/s are used for vacuum electron beam welding of WE43 rare earth magnesium alloy plate. In this study, the main compositions of the weld are α-Mg and a small amount of eutectic rare earth phase β-Mg24Y5. The mass fraction of the rare earth phase β-Mg24Y5 in the weld area is more than that of the base metal. Segregation of Zr-rich particles can occur in weld zone. The average hardness of the weld is about 27% higher than that of the base metal, and the hardness near the center line of the weld is the highest. The yield strength, tensile strength and elongation of the joint are higher than that of the base metal by approximately 17%, 14% and 41%. Tensile fracture morphology of the welded joint is characterized by ductile and brittle mixed fracture. So, electron beam welding can achieve the connection of WE43 magnesium alloy plate with excellent microstructure and performance. It may be of great significance for this study to expand the application of rare earth magnesium alloy.
Effects of conventional and organic management on plant and insect communities in a traditional elephant garlic crop
Authors: Fanfarillo Emanuele , Calabrese Daniele , Angiolini Claudia , Bacaro Giovanni , Biagiotti Stefano , Castagnini Paolo , Loppi Stefano , Martellini Tommaso , Maccherini Simona
Published: July 2022

Agricultural management has a great influence on biodiversity and its services in agroecosystems. In Europe, a relevant proportion of biodiversity is dependent on low-input agriculture. To assess the effects of agricultural management on biodiversity, in this study we surveyed the communities of arable plants, diurnal flying insects, and pollinators in three conventional and in two organic fields of a traditional Elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum L.) crop of the Valdichiana area, in Tuscany (central Italy). The sampling was carried out twice during the season: in spring, during crop growing, and in summer, after crop harvesting. We assessed the effects of the different agricultural management on the richness and composition (species occurrence and abundance) of the three communities using univariate and multivariate analyses. Concerning our specific case study, only plant species richness was significantly higher in organic fields (15.7 ± 2.7 species per plot), compared to conventional ones (5.4 ± 2.3 species per plot). Regarding community composition, only pollinators showed a marginally significant difference between conventional and organic fields. Conversely, the effect of specific fields significantly explained differences in composition of all the investigated groups (plants, total insects, and pollinators). The results suggest that, in our case study, the emerged differences in diversity of the investigated communities were mainly attributable to environmental and management factors related to single fields, more than to organic or conventional farming. Such evidence could be partly due to the very local scale of the study, to the heterogeneity of the surveyed fields, and to the reduced number of surveyed fields. Further investigation is therefore needed.
Properties
Authors: Maurin Anna-Sofia
Published: July 2022

Although the subject matter of this Element is properties, do not expect in-depth introductions to the various views on properties 'on the market'. Instead, here that subject matter is treated meta-philosophically. Rather than ask and try to answer a question like do properties exist? this Element asks what reasons one might have for thinking that properties exist (what problem properties, if they exist, are there to solve), what counts as solving that (or those) problems (including what counts as 'a property'), as well as how we ought to proceed when trying to find out if properties exist (by which method this ought to be decided). As it turns out, these questions and their answers are all intricately intertwined. Theory comparison and theory evaluation is in other words (and perhaps not that surprisingly) tricky. Do properties exist? After reading this Element all we can say is therefore this: that depends.
Large-time behaviour and the second eigenvalue problem for finite-state mean-field interacting particle systems
Authors: Yasodharan Sarath , Sundaresan Rajesh
Published: July 2022

This article examines large-time behaviour of finite-state mean-field interacting particle systems. Our first main result is a sharp estimate (in the exponential scale) of the time required for convergence of the empirical measure process of the N-particle system to its invariant measure; we show that when time is of the order
$\exp\{N\Lambda\}$
for a suitable constant
$\Lambda > 0$
, the process has mixed well and it is close to its invariant measure. We then obtain large-N asymptotics of the second-largest eigenvalue of the generator associated with the empirical measure process when it is reversible with respect to its invariant measure. We show that its absolute value scales as
$\exp\{{-}N\Lambda\}$
. The main tools used in establishing our results are the large deviation properties of the empirical measure process from its large-N limit. As an application of the study of large-time behaviour, we also show convergence of the empirical measure of the system of particles to a global minimum of a certain ‘entropy’ function when particles are added over time in a controlled fashion. The controlled addition of particles is analogous to the cooling schedule associated with the search for a global minimum of a function using the simulated annealing algorithm.
Can vaccination intentions against COVID-19 be nudged?
Authors: Kantorowicz-Reznichenko Elena , Kantorowicz Jaroslaw , Wells Liam
Published: July 2022

Once vaccines against COVID-19 became available in many countries, a new challenge has emerged – how to increase the number of people who vaccinate? Different policies are being considered and implemented, including behaviourally informed interventions (i.e., nudges). In this study, we have experimentally examined two types of nudges on representative samples of two countries – descriptive social norms (Israel) and saliency of either the death experience from COVID-19 or its symptoms (UK). To increase the legitimacy of nudges, we have also examined the effectiveness of transparent nudges, where the goal of the nudge and the reasons of its implementation (expected effectiveness) were disclosed. We did not find evidence that informing people that the vast majority of their country-people intend to vaccinate enhanced vaccination intentions in Israel. We also did not find evidence that making the death experience from COVID-19, or its hard symptoms, salient enhanced vaccination intentions in the UK. Finally, transparent nudges as well did not change the results. We further provide evidence for the reasons why people choose not to vaccinate, and whether different factors such as gender, belief in conspiracy theories, political ideology, and risk perception, play a role in people's intentions to vaccinate or susceptibility to nudges.
A review of current knowledge about the importance of iodine among women of child-bearing age and healthcare professionals
Authors: Kayes Lucy , Mullan Karen R. , Woodside Jayne V.
Published: July 2022

Iodine is required for thyroid hormone synthesis and fetal neurogenesis. Recent population studies in the United Kingdom (UK) have found iodine deficiency among schoolgirls, women of child-bearing age and pregnant women. This review explores knowledge and awareness of iodine among women of child-bearing age and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the UK, set within a global context. We aimed to identify gaps in iodine knowledge in the current UK setting of iodine deficiency without iodine fortification and where iodine is not included in antenatal guidelines. The search terms ‘iodine knowledge’ and ‘iodine awareness’ were used to identify relevant papers. Iodine knowledge is poor among women of child-bearing age in the UK according to four studies using questionnaires and qualitative methods. They were unsure of dietary sources of iodine and were not consistently provided with relevant information from HCPs during clinical care. Midwives have been recognised as the main providers of dietary information during pregnancy and, although they recognised the importance of their role in providing nutrition advice, they did not feel equipped to do so and lacked confidence in addressing nutritional concerns. Globally, there was a similar lack of knowledge, however, this was somewhat improved by the inclusion of iodine in antenatal care guidelines. Midwives’ knowledge of iodine was poor, as was knowledge among women of child-bearing age. Improved HCP knowledge and effective communication of information to pregnant women and women planning to conceive may help to improve iodine status which is of particular concern in pregnancy.
Retinoic acid promotes tissue vitamin A status and modulates adipose tissue metabolism of neonatal rats exposed to maternal high-fat diet-induced obesity
Authors: Tan Libo , Zhang Yanqi , Wang Hui , Haberer Heleena
Published: July 2022

Maternal obesity may compromise the micronutrient status of the offspring. Vitamin A (VA) is an essential micronutrient during neonatal development. Its active metabolite, retinoic acid (RA), is a key regulator of VA homeostasis, which also regulates adipose tissue (AT) development in obese adults. However, its role on VA status and AT metabolism in neonates was unknown and it was determined in the present study. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised to a normal fat diet (NFD) or a high fat diet (HFD). From postnatal day 5 (P5) to P20, half of the HFD pups received oral RA every 3 d (HFDRA group). NFD pups and the remaining HFD pups (HFD group) received placebo. Six hours after dosing on P8, P14 and P20, n 4 pups per group were euthanised for different measures. It was found that total retinol concentration in neonatal liver and lung was significantly lower in the HFD group than the NFD group, while the concentrations were significantly increased in the HFDRA group. The HFD group exhibited significantly higher body weight (BW) gain, AT mass, serum leptin and adiponectin, and gene expression of these adipokines in white adipose tissue compared with the NFD group; these measures were significantly reduced in the HFDRA group. BAT UCP2 and UCP3 gene expression were significantly higher in pups receiving RA. In conclusion, repeated RA treatment during the suckling period improved the tissue VA status of neonates exposed to maternal obesity. RA also exerted a regulatory effect on neonatal obesity development by reducing BW gain and adiposity and modulating AT metabolism.
Le défi de l'institutionnalisation des savoirs d'expérience dans les services de rétablissement. Une approche pragmatiste
Authors: Aussedat Laure
Published: July 2022

Que signifie concrètement reconnaître et valoriser les savoirs d'expérience dans le cadre de services de psychiatrie orientés vers le rétablissement ? À partir d'une étude des missions confiées aux « médiateurs de santé pairs », et en utilisant la théorie pragmatiste de John Dewey, il s'agit ici d'interroger les conditions de possibilité et les limites d'une institutionnalisation des savoirs des patients. Plutôt que de penser cette institutionnalisation en termes d'intégration d'informations, Dewey nous permet de la penser comme la mise en débat des cadres interprétatifs et des critères d’évaluation du rétablissement.
Solidarité, agentivité, autorité. Un siècle de tentatives d'autonomisation des patient.es en France (1918–2009)
Authors: Klein Alexandre
Published: July 2022

Le processus d'autonomisation des patient.es qui s'opéra en France au cours du XXesiècle peut, artificiellement, être divisé en trois grandes périodes marquées par les principes de solidarité, d'agentivité et d'autorité. Cette tripartition permet de mieux saisir les enjeux de ce mouvement et de comprendre en quoi l'avènement de la démocratie sanitaire, auquel il a abouti au début du XXIesiècle, consiste, par sa dépolitisation des enjeux d'autonomie, au renvoi des patient.es vers une forme de subalternité qu'incarnent, paradoxalement, les nouvelles figures de patient expert ou partenaire.
Graded comodule categories with enough projectives
Authors: Salch Andrew
Published: July 2022

It is well known that the category of comodules over a flat Hopf algebroid is abelian but typically fails to have enough projectives, and more generally, the category of graded comodules over a graded flat Hopf algebroid is abelian but typically fails to have enough projectives. In this short paper, we prove that the category of connective graded comodules over a connective, graded, flat, finite-type Hopf algebroid has enough projectives. Applications to algebraic topology are given: the Hopf algebroids of stable co-operations in complex bordism, Brown–Peterson homology, and classical mod p homology all have the property that their categories of connective graded comodules have enough projectives. We also prove that categories of connective graded comodules over appropriate Hopf algebras fail to be equivalent to categories of graded connective modules over a ring.
Analysing culture in language learning materials
Authors: Risager Karen
Published: July 2022

This introduction contains three parts: First, a presentation of the timeline, including the selection of target languages. Second, an overview of trends of development in the international research field from the 1960s up until today. Third, a list of categories used in the subsequent table of annotated works.