bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overview of palm oil biomass for power generation sector decarbonization in Malaysia: Progress, challenges, and prospects
Authors: Zamri Mohd F. M. A. , Milano Jassinnee , Shamsuddin Abd H. , Roslan Mohd E. M. , Salleh Siti F. , Rahman Adlansyah A. , Bahru Raihana , Fattah Islam M. R. , Mahlia T. M. Indra
Published: March 2022

With the ever‐increasing danger of climate change, power plants are shifting from polluting fossil fuels to sustainable bioenergy fuels. As Malaysia continues to pledge to decrease glasshouse gas (GHG) emissions, quick and dramatic action should resolve the reliance on fossil fuel power plants. Furthermore, the coal‐fired power station is Malaysia's biggest supplier of energy and the final power plant to be decommissioned. In Malaysia, a significant portion of palm oil biomass has the potential to replace coal in the generation of renewable energy power. However, the deployment of palm oil biomass as a renewable energy source has not been fully achieved. Furthermore, the surplus of unutilized biomass from the palm oil milling process has emerged as the key talking point leading to environmental concerns. As estimated, this palm oil biomass can generate approximately 5000 MW of electricity under 40% of operation efficiency. This significant power potential has the ability to replace Malaysia's yearly reliance on coal. Nonetheless, the limitations of technological stability, budgetary constraints, and other government policy concerns have prevented the potentials from being fulfilled. This necessitates an integrated framework that synergizes the decarbonization drive in order to realize the primary advantages of energy renewability and carbon neutrality. Among the suggested actions to decarbonize the power generating sector is an integrated scheme of palm oil production, biogas plant for electricity and steam generation, and biofuel pellet manufacture. This review provides an in‐depth overview of palm oil biomass for Malaysian power production decarbonization.

This article is categorized under:

Sustainable Energy > Bioenergy

Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and Decarbonization

Sustainable Development > Emerging Economies
Lorentzian 2D CFT from the pAQFT Perspective
Authors: Crawford Sam , Rejzner Kasia , Vicedo Benoît
Published: March 2022

We provide a detailed construction of the quantum theory of the massless scalar field on two-dimensional, globally hyperbolic (in particular, Lorentzian) manifolds using the framework of perturbative algebraic quantum field theory. From this we obtain subalgebras of observables isomorphic to the Heisenberg and Virasoro algebras on the Einstein cylinder. We also show how the conformal version of general covariance, as first introduced by Pinamonti as an extension of the construction due to Brunetti, Fredenhagen and Verch, may be applied to natural Lagrangians, which allow one to specify a theory consistently across multiple spacetimes, in order to obtain a simple condition for the conformal covariance of classical dynamics, which is then shown to quantise in the case of a quadratic Lagrangian. We then compare the covariance condition for the stress-energy tensor in the classical and quantum theory in order to obtain a transformation law involving the Schwarzian derivative of the new coordinate, in accordance with a well-known result in the Euclidean literature.
Conspicuity and muscle-invasiveness assessment for bladder cancer using VI-RADS: a multi-reader, contrast-free MRI study to determine optimal b-values for diffusion-weighted imaging
Authors: Delli Pizzi Andrea , Mastrodicasa Domenico , Taraschi Alessio , Civitareale Nicoletta , Mincuzzi Erica , Censi Stefano , Marchioni Michele , Primiceri Giulia , Castellan Pietro , Castellucci Roberto , Cocco Giulio , Chiacchiaretta Piero , Colasante Antonella , Corvino Antonio , Schips Luigi , Caulo Massimo
Published: March 2022

Objective

To (1) compare bladder cancer (BC) muscle invasiveness among three b-values using a contrast-free approach based on Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS), to (2) determine if muscle-invasiveness assessment is affected by the reader experience, and to (3) compare BC conspicuity among three b-values, qualitatively and quantitatively.

Methods

Thirty-eight patients who underwent a bladder MRI on a 3.0-T scanner were enrolled. The gold standard was histopathology report following transurethral resection of BC. Three sets of images, including T2w and different b-values for DWI, set 1 (b = 1000 s/mm2), set 2 (b = 1500 s/mm2), and set 3 (b = 2000 s/mm2), were reviewed by three differently experienced readers. Descriptive statistics and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) were calculated. Comparisons among readers and DWI sets were performed with the Wilcoxon test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed. Areas under the curves (AUCs) and pairwise comparison were calculated.

Results

AUCs of muscle-invasiveness assessment ranged from 0.896 to 0.984 (reader 1), 0.952–0.968 (reader 2), and 0.952–0.984 (reader 3) without significant differences among different sets and readers (p > 0.05). The mean conspicuity qualitative scores were higher in Set 1 (2.21–2.33), followed by Set 2 (2–2.16) and Set 3 (1.82–2.14). The quantitative conspicuity assessment showed that mean normalized intensity of tumor was significantly higher in Set 2 (4.217–4.737) than in Set 1 (3.923–4.492) and Set 3 (3.833–3.992) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Muscle invasiveness can be assessed with high accuracy using a contrast-free protocol with T2W and DWI, regardless of reader’s experience. b = 1500 s/mm2 showed the best tumor delineation, while b = 1000 s/mm2 allowed for better tumor–wall interface assessment.
Periprosthetic joint infection in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: treatment options and outcomes. What is the current evidence in literature?
Authors: Zanirato Andrea , Cavagnaro Luca , Chiarlone Francesco , Quarto Emanuele , Formica Matteo
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) following unicompartmental knee arthroplasties (UKAs) will increase. The aim of this review is to evaluate current evidence regarding treatment options, complications, clinical and radiological outcomes of PJI management in UKAs.

Methods

A systematic review of English literature was performed. Retrospective and prospective studies providing treatment options, complications, clinical and radiological outcomes of PJI following UKAs were included. PJI type, treatment, survival rate with no reoperation for infection and survival rate with no reoperation for any cause were evaluated.

Results

Eleven articles were included. Three studies focusing on PJI following UKA (45 cases) report a survival rate with no reoperation for infection of 68.9% and a survival rate with no reoperation for any cause of 48.9%. Eight articles concerning UKA failure modes (28 cases) overestimate survival rate with no reoperation for infection (88.9%) and survival rate with no reoperation for any cause (88.9%) (p < 0.05). DAIR reports a rate of infection eradication failure ranging from 43.8 to 100%. 1SE allows for a survival rate with no reoperation for infection of 100%. 2SE reports a rate of infection eradication failure ranging from 0 to 12.5%. A high rate of early aseptic reoperation is reported, despite infection eradication (20% in DAIR; 28.5% in 2SE).

Conclusions

Treatment strategy is determined by symptom timing, PJI type (acute vs chronic), causative organism, patient’s comorbidities. A longer duration of PJI or severe host and extremity status seems to require 2SE or 1SE. Patients who have a shorter duration of PJI could receive DAIR.
A New Face Iterator for Polyhedra and for More General Finite Locally Branched Lattices
Authors: Kliem Jonathan , Stump Christian
Published: March 2022

We discuss a new memory-efficient depth-first algorithm and its implementation that iterates over all elements of a finite locally branched lattice. This algorithm can be applied to face lattices of polyhedra and to various generalizations such as finite polyhedral complexes and subdivisions of manifolds, extended tight spans and closed sets of matroids. Its practical implementation is very fast compared to state-of-the-art implementations of previously considered algorithms. Based on recent work of Bruns, García-Sánchez, O’Neill, and Wilburne, we apply this algorithm to prove Wilf’s conjecture for all numerical semigroups of multiplicity 19 by iterating through the faces of the Kunz cone and identifying the possible bad faces and then checking that these do not yield counterexamples to Wilf’s conjecture.
Uncertainty in Shear-Wave Velocity Profiles
Authors: Toro Gabriel R.
Published: March 2022

This paper considers the uncertainty in the shear wave velocity (Vs) of soil and rock profiles for use in earthquake site response calculations. This uncertainty is an important contributor to uncertainty in site response, which in turn is an important contributor to uncertainty in earthquake ground motions and in seismic hazard. The paper begins with a discussion of the different types of uncertainty and how they are characterized in probabilistic seismic hazard analysis, and how this differentiation is particularly ambiguous in the case of soil properties. This is followed by a description of the probabilistic models of Vs that are most commonly used in engineering practice, for both generic and site-specific applications. In site-specific applications, the uncertainty in Vs (which is measured by the logarithmic standard deviation or by the coefficient of variation of Vs) is lower than in generic applications, but other elements of the profile model are also different. Next, the paper discusses the issues that arise in characterizing the uncertainty in Vs in site-specific applications using non-invasive surface wave methods and summarizes the insights obtained by comparing the results from multiple blind studies in which the same surface-wave data (and no other site-specific data) were provided to multiple teams of analysts. Finally, the paper provides recommendations on how to characterize uncertainty in Vs for both generic and site-specific applications.
Viral Law: Life, Death, Difference, and Indifference from the Spanish Flu to Covid-19
Authors: Featherstone Mark
Published: March 2022

What is viral law? In order to being my discussion, I note that the last two years have been extremely difficult to understand and that we, meaning those who have lived through the pandemic, have struggled to make sense. Thus, I make the argument that the virus has impacted upon not only the individual’s ability to make sense in a world where every day routines have been upended, but also social and political structures that similarly rely on repetition to continue to function. According to this thesis, Covid-19 is more than simply a biological organism, but also a cultural virus that undermines the organisation of social, political, and economic systems and requires new ways of thinking about how we might move forward into a post-Covid world. In the name of beginning this project of making sense of Covid-19, I track back in history to the comparable reference point of the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918–1920 and, in particular, a reading of Freud’sBeyond the Pleasure Principle, which the founder of psychoanalysis wrote in the shadow of the virus. In reading Freud’s attempt to write a psychology of death in the context of this funereal period of history, I argue that he set out first, a mythological theory of viral law concerned with the death drive, before turning to second, a techno-scientific, biological theory of the same (viral) law characterised by microbial immortality. Beyond this exploration ofBeyond the Pleasure Principle, in the third part of the article I turn to a reading of Lacan’s interpretation of Freud’s work, where viral law becomes a story of cybernetics and nihilistic mechanisation. Here, perfect mechanisation, and the endless oscillation between message and noise, looks a lot like living death. Finally, I take up Derrida’s critique of Jacob’s molecular biology and, by extension, Freud’s theory of microbial immorality, that he thinks privileges an idea of repetitive sameness and opens up a space for cultural politics concerned with immunity against otherness. Derrida’s key point here is that this biological fantasy ignores the reality of viral sex that enables evolution to happen. What this means is that the other, even in its microbial form, is ever present, and that we must recognise the importance of difference to the possibility of social, political, and economic change.
Evaluation of [18F]F-DPA PET for Detecting Microglial Activation in the Spinal Cord of a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Shimochi Saeka , Keller Thomas , Kujala Ella , Khabbal Joonas , Rajander Johan , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Solin Olof , Nuutila Pirjo , Kanaya Shigehiko , Yatkin Emrah , Grönroos Tove J. , Iida Hidehiro
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Recent studies have linked activated spinal glia to neuropathic pain. Here, using a positron emission tomography (PET) scanner with high spatial resolution and sensitivity, we evaluated the feasibility and sensitivity of N,N-diethyl-2-(2-(4-([18F]fluoro)phenyl)-5,7-dimethylpyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidin-3-yl)acetamide ([18F]F-DPA) imaging for detecting spinal cord microglial activation after partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) in rats.

Procedures

Neuropathic pain was induced in rats (n = 20) by PSNL, and pain sensation tests were conducted before surgery and 3 and 7 days post-injury. On day 7, in vivo PET imaging and ex vivo autoradiography were performed using [18F]F-DPA or [11C]PK11195. Ex vivo biodistribution and PET imaging of the removed spinal cord were carried out with [18F]F-DPA. Sham-operated and PK11195-pretreated animals were also examined.

Results

Mechanical allodynia was confirmed in the PSNL rats from day 3 through day 7. Ex vivo autoradiography showed a higher lesion-to-background uptake with [18F]F-DPA compared with [11C]PK11195. Ex vivo PET imaging of the removed spinal cord showed [18F]F-DPA accumulation in the inflammation site, which was immunohistochemically confirmed to coincide with microglia activation. Pretreatment with PK11195 eliminated the uptake. The SUV values of in vivo [18F]F-DPA and [11C]PK11195 PET were not significantly increased in the lesion compared with the reference region, and were fivefold higher than the values obtained from the ex vivo data. Ex vivo biodistribution revealed a twofold higher [18F]F-DPA uptake in the vertebral body compared to that seen in the bone from the skull.

Conclusions

[18F]F-DPA aided visualization of the spinal cord inflammation site in PSNL rats on ex vivo autoradiography and was superior to [11C]PK11195. In vivo [18F]F-DPA PET did not allow for visualization of tracer accumulation even using a high-spatial-resolution PET scanner. The main reason for this result was due to insufficient SUVs in the spinal cord region as compared with the background noise, in addition to a spillover from the vertebral body.
The Combined Oral Stable Isotope Assessment of Muscle (COSIAM) reveals D-3 creatine derived muscle mass as a standout cross-sectional biomarker of muscle physiology vitality in older age
Authors: Cegielski Jessica , Brook Matthew S. , Phillips Bethan E. , Boereboom Catherine , Gates Amanda , Gladman John F. R. , Smith Kenneth , Wilkinson Daniel J. , Atherton Philip J.
Published: March 2022

Validated diagnostics of skeletal muscle vitality could benefit clinical and basic science in terms of mechanistic insights and in determining the efficacy of interventions, e.g. exercise/pharmaceuticals/nutrients. We recently developed a Combined Oral Assessment of Muscle (COSIAM) that can be used to simultaneously quantify whole-body muscle mass (WBMM), muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and muscle protein breakdown (MPB). Here, we aimed to establish, in a cross-sectional fashion, links between COSIAM parameters and established aspects of muscle function. We recruited 37 healthy older adults (male (M):female (F) (21/16); 72 ± 5 y)) into a 3-day trial. Subjects consumed D3-creatine (D3-Cr dilution to assess WBMM), D2O (MPS by incorporation of alanine) and D3-3-methylhistidine (D3-MH dilution to assess MPB). A biopsy at day 3 was used to determine MPS, and blood/urine samples were collected to determine D3-Cr/D3-MH dilution for WBMM and MPB. Physiological measures of muscle mass (e.g. DXA/ultrasound) and function (e.g. handgrip strength, maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), one-repetition maximum (1-RM)) were ascertained. A stepwise linear regression approach was used to address links between facets of COSIAM (MPS, MPB, WBMM) and muscle physiology. Despite expected differences in muscle mass, there were no significant differences in MPS or MPB between sexes. WBMM as measured using D3-Cr positively correlated with DXA-derived lean body mass (LBM) and appendicular LBM (ABLM). Stepwise linear regression was used to assess which combination of MPS, MPB, D3-Cr and absolute synthesis rate (ASR) best predicted physiological measures of muscle health in these older adults. D3-Cr WBMM alone was the best predictor of handgrip, 1RM and MVC, and outperformed more traditional measures of muscle mass by DXA. The COSIAM approach substantiates D3-Cr as a robust biomarker of multiple muscle physiology health biomarkers. Future work using COSIAM should focus upon how and which parameters it can inform upon in relation to disease progression and the efficacy of interventions.
Large-Scale Test Facility for Modeling Bubble Behavior and Liquid Metal Two-Phase Flows in a Steel Ladle
Authors: Wondrak Thomas , Timmel Klaus , Bruch Christian , Gardin Pascal , Hackl Gernot , Lachmund Helmut , Lüngen Hans Bodo , Odenthal Hans-Jürgen , Eckert Sven
Published: March 2022

A new experimental facility has been designed and constructed which represents a 1:5.25 model of an industrial 185 t steel ladle. This setup is intended for systematic investigations of complex liquid metal multiphase flows created by gas blowing from the bottom. Two tons of a Sn-40 wt pct Bi alloy are employed as working fluid, its thermophysical properties are very similar to those of liquid steel. The relatively low operating temperatures (T~ 200 °C) compared to the real industrial process allow the use of powerful measuring techniques for characterizing the behavior of the gas phase and resulting flow regimes. Argon gas is injected through diverse plug systems into a cylindrical fluid vessel which is equipped with a pressure tight lid to achieve low-pressure conditions for vacuum processing. This paper presents first measurements of the gas distribution close to the free liquid metal surface for various gas flow rates, plug positions and types. Moreover, the pressure in the vessel has been varied between 1 mbar and ambient pressure. The experiments provide a copious data base about flow regimes, void fraction, liquid and bubble velocities, and bubble properties, which can be used to provide so far unknown boundary conditions for numerical simulations of various metallurgical reactors such as steelmaking converters or steelmaking ladles.
A GIS-supported Multidisciplinary Database for the Management of UNESCO Global Geoparks: the Courel Mountains Geopark (Spain)
Authors: Ballesteros Daniel , Caldevilla Pablo , Vila Ramón , Barros Xosé Carlos , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Laura , García-Ávila Manuel , Sahuquillo Elvira , Llorente Miguel , Diez José Bienvenido , Fuertes-Fuente Mercedes , Timón-Sánchez Susana M. , de Lombera-Hermida Arturo , Álvarez Iván , Pérez-Cáceres Irene , Acebo Manuel , Orche Amaré Pilar , García J. Horacio , Martín-González Fidel , Alemparte Martín
Published: March 2022

The management of a UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) requires a vast wealth of miscellaneous scientific knowledge that can be successfully organised using a Geographical Information System (GIS). This paper presents a pragmatic GIS database to assist in the suitable governance of the Courel Mountains UGGp (2017) in Northwest Spain. The database is structured in 66 coverages compiled from public sources and previous works or produced through traditional mapping (combining fieldwork and photointerpretation) and GIS tools. The acquired data was later homogenised and validated by a multidisciplinary team and archived in independent coverages. Forty thematic maps illustrate the broad range of cartographic information included in the GIS database. Among them, 25 basic maps provide an overview of the UGGp and 15 new maps focus on crosscutting and technical issues. All maps illustrate the huge potential of GIS to create new resources combining coverages and adapting the legend according to their purpose and audience. The database facilitates the suitable publishing of consistent outputs (e.g., brochures, books, panels, webpages, web serves), as well as the elaboration of technical data to assist the park management. The database furnishes information on the design of education actions, touristic routes, activities and Geopark facilities. The GIS database is also a supportive tool for scientific research and provides the necessary knowledge to conduct geoconservation actions based on land use, geological hazards and the occurrence of natural and cultural heritages. Altogether, the GIS database constitutes a powerful instrument for policy-making, facilitating the identification and evaluation of alternative strategy plans.
RL based hyper-parameters optimization algorithm (ROA) for convolutional neural network
Authors: Talaat Fatma M. , Gamel Samah A.
Published: March 2022

Many real-world applications necessitate optimization in dynamic situations, where the difficulty is to locate and follow the optima of a time-dependent objective function. To solve dynamic optimization problems (DOPs), many evolutionary techniques have been created. However, more efficient solutions are still required. Recently, a new intriguing trend in dealing with optimization in dynamic environments has developed, with new reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms predicted to breathe fresh life into the DOPs community. In this paper, a new Q-learning RL-based optimization algorithm (ROA) for CNN hyperparameter optimization is proposed. Two datasets were used to test the proposed RL model (MNIST dataset, and CIFAR-10 dataset). Due to the use of RL for hyperparameter optimization, very competitive results and good performance were produced. From the experimental results, it is observed that the CNN optimized by ROA has higher accuracy than CNN without optimization. When using the MNIST dataset, it is shown that the accuracy of the CNN optimized by ROA when learning 5 epoch is 98.97%, which is greater than the 97.62% of the CNN without optimization. When using the CIFAR-10 dataset, it is shown that the accuracy of the CNN optimized by ROA when learning 10 epoch is 73.40 percent, which is greater than 71.73% of the CNN without optimization.
Constant power threshold—predicting maximal lactate steady state in recreational cyclists
Authors: Vobejda Christian , Wortmann Tim , Zimmermann Elke
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Prolonged time trials proved capable of precisely estimating anaerobic threshold. However, time trial studies in recreational cyclists are missing. The aim of the present study was to evaluate accuracy and viability of constant power threshold, which is the highest power output constantly maintainable over time, for estimating maximal lactate steady state in recreational athletes.

Methods

A total of 25 recreational athletes participated in the study of whom 22 (11 female, 11 male) conducted all constant load time trials required for determining constant power threshold 30 min and 45 min, which is the highest power output constantly maintainable over 30 min and 45 min, respectively. Maximal lactate steady state was assessed subsequently from blood samples taken every 5 min during the time trials.

Results

Constant power threshold over 45 min (175.5 ± 49.6 W) almost matched power output at maximal lactate steady state (176.4 ± 50.5 W), whereas constant power threshold over 30 min (181.4 ± 51.4 W) was marginally higher (P = 0.007, d = 0.74). Interrelations between maximal lactate steady state and constant power threshold 30 min and constant power threshold 45 min were very close (R2 = 0.99, SEE = 8.9 W, Percentage SEE (%SEE) = 5.1%, P < 0.001 and R2 = 0.99, SEE = 10.0 W, %SEE = 5.7%, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Determination of constant power threshold is a straining but viable and precise alternative for recreational cyclists to estimate power output at maximal lactate steady state and thus maximal sustainable oxidative metabolic rate.
Successful teaching practices for english language learners in multilingual mathematics classrooms: a meta-analysis
Authors: Sharma Shweta , Sharma Sashi
Published: March 2022

Due to rapid immigration, many children worldwide are learning mathematics in a second or additional language. This language diversity can be challenging for both teachers and students and carries profound implications for mathematics educators. Research shows that teachers use various ways to support English Language Learners. Research on multilingualism in mathematics classrooms has often focused on qualitative research. This meta-analysis aims to explore the statistically effective successful teaching practices from the studies using quantitative or mixed-method research approaches and aims to inform the research field in a cumulative manner. The specific research question that guided this meta-analysis is: What is the evidence regarding successful teaching of mathematics for Year 1–10 English Language Learners from 2009–2019 in countries where curricula are delivered predominantly in English? Four successful intervention categories were identified: Dual Language Programmes, Curriculum integration, Teacher Professional Development, and Cognitively Focused Interventions. The paper concludes with recommendations for practice and further research in this area.
Osseointegration Amputation Reconstruction
Authors: Reif Taylor J. , Jacobs Donya , Fragomen Austin T. , Rozbruch S. Robert
Published: March 2022

Purpose of Review

To review the topic of osseointegration amputation reconstruction, which inserts a transcutaneous metal implant into the remaining intramedullary bone of a person with an amputation to facilitate a direct bone-anchored connection to an external prosthesis, eliminating the molded socket interface.

Recent Findings

Evidence continues to build that patients function better and have a higher quality of life with osseointegration implants compared with traditional socket prosthetics. The indications for osseointegration are expanding to additional patient populations and the long-term outcomes available are favorable which supports the continued refinement and utilization of the technology.

Osseointegration implants offer people with amputations freedom from burdensome socket prosthetics while improving function and quality of life. Mild infections at the skin interface are common but managed effectively with oral antibiotics and rarely lead to deep infection and implant removal. Other serious complications like hip or implant fracture are also uncommon. Additional long-term outcomes are needed along with technologic refinements, especially at the skin implant interface.
Graphene for Zirconia and Titanium Composites in Dental Implants: Significance and Predictions
Authors: Özcan Mutlu , Volpato Claudia Angela Maziero , Hian Lucas , Karahan Billur Deniz , Cesar Paulo Francisco
Published: March 2022

Purpose of Review

Graphene is introduced in dentistry as a material to be used in the fabrication or coating of dental implants due to its biocompatibility, ability to physically interact with biomolecules and very high surface area. This review highlights the current knowledge on the general properties of graphene, potential benefits especially when used in zirconia-based implants, as composite materials and coatings.

Recent Findings

The literature reviewed showed a growing body of evidence supporting the use of graphene-based material, associated with titanium or zirconia as a coating or composite material that helps in cell viability, differentiation and proliferation, improving the bioactivity, osseointegration, physical, chemical and mechanical properties particularly zirconia. Graphene-based materials present great potential for biomedical applications especially when used in the form of nanostructured biological coatings that can be obtained through reproducible and economical processes.

The use of graphene as a composite implant material or coating may have great potential for osseointegration and bone regeneration, providing that, features including hydrophilicity, protein adsorption capacity, oxygen content and effect of external parameters such as temperature, pH and ionic strength need further elucidations before they can be implemented as a coating or composite material for dental implants.
Carbon mechanism on sustainable multi-objective solid transportation problem for waste management in Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy environment
Authors: Ghosh Shyamali , Küfer Karl-Heinz , Roy Sankar Kumar , Weber Gerhard-Wilhelm
Published: March 2022

Waste management involved in various fields of global ecosystem that provides several positive effects for green environment and sustainable development. We devise a multi-objective solid transportation model of waste management problem in agriculture field and forest department for urban or rural development. Starting to end point of the problem covered by considering the objective functions as transportation cost, job opportunity and carbon emission. Carbon emission is restricted by the combination of several policies of carbon mechanism (carbon tax, cap-and-trade and offset policy). Various critical sitchs appear in such realistic process and uncertainty attached with related data. Here we prefer Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy environment to overcome deep uncertainty rather than single uncertainty. After that, we initiate a ranking approach to convert uncertain data into crisp data. To justify the appropriateness of the formulated model and to select the best policy of carbon mechanism, we study two industrial applications with various cases of such mechanism. To derive the Pareto-optimal solution of the problems, two fuzzy techniques, namely, fuzzy programming and Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy programming, are utilized here. Comparative study, model validation, sensitivity analysis, managerial insights and conclusions with future research scopes are outlined at last.
Universal Design for Learning - A framework for inclusion in Outdoor Learning
Authors: Kelly Orla , Buckley Karen , Lieberman Lauren J. , Arndt Katrina
Published: March 2022

This article proposes the application of the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a framework for promoting inclusion in outdoor learning in primary school settings. The authors conceptualise outdoor learning, highlighting the potential for more child-initiated experiential learning. Yet this paper is not concerned only with outdoor learning, but with the inclusion of all learners in outdoor learning, through enactment of the curriculum in mainstream schooling. The diverse profile of children in primary schools calls on teachers to prepare teaching, learning and assessment activities to address a wide range of social, emotional, physical, cognitive and cultural needs. Contemporary researchers recognise outdoor learning as an effective pedagogy to promote inclusion and therefore reduce the barriers for full participation in the primary classroom. UDL is offered as a framework for planning outdoor learning to support delivery of curricula that are responsive to the needs of all learners. UDL is underpinned by three principles: multiple means of engagement, representation, expression and action. Two vignettes are shared to illustrate how these principles can be applied to outdoor learning in a meaningful and sustained way. The article highlights the benefits for teachers and learners of applying UDL principles to outdoor learning to promote inclusion in the diverse primary class.
Fixing Stories
Authors: Arjomand Noah Amir
Published: March 2022

News 'fixers' are translators and guides who assist foreign journalists. Sometimes key contributors to bold, original reporting and other times key facilitators of homogeneity and groupthink in the news media, they play the difficult but powerful role of broker between worlds, shaping the creation of knowledge from behind the scenes. In Fixing Stories, Noah Amir Arjomand reflects on the nature of news production and cross-cultural mediation. Based on human stories drawn from three years of field research in Turkey, this book unfolds as a series of narratives of fixers' career trajectories during a period when the international media spotlight shone on Turkey and Syria. From the Syrian Civil War, Gezi Park protest movement, rise of authoritarianism in Turkey and of ISIS in Syria, to the rekindling of conflict in both countries' Kurdish regions and Turkey's 2016 coup attempt, Arjomand brings to light vivid personal accounts and insider perspectives on world-shaking events alongside analysis of the role fixers have played in bringing news of Turkey and Syria to international audiences.
The impact of social desirability bias on conspiracy belief measurement across cultures
Authors: Smallpage Steven M. , Enders Adam M. , Drochon Hugo , Uscinski Joseph E.
Published: March 2022

Polls asking respondents about their beliefs in conspiracy theories have become increasingly commonplace. However, researchers have expressed concern about the willingness of respondents to divulge beliefs in conspiracy theories due to the stigmatization of those ideas. We use an experimental design similar to a list experiment to decipher the effect of social desirability bias on survey responses to eight conspiratorial statements. Our study includes 8290 respondents across seven countries, allowing for the examination of social desirability bias across various political and cultural contexts. While the proportion of individuals expressing belief in each statement varies across countries, we observe identical treatment effects: respondents systematically underreport conspiracy beliefs. These findings suggest that conspiracy beliefs may be more prominent than current estimates suggest.
The 1126 Ma volcanic event in the Dechang Area, SW Yangtze Block, and its significance
Authors: Lu Chen-Ming , Zhang Chuan-Heng , Zhang Heng , Zhou Ying , Shields Graham A. , Gao Lin-Zhi , Ding Xiao-Zhong
Published: March 2022

Traditionally, the strata of the Luonie Valley, Dechang County, SW Sichuan, China, are considered to contain a suite of felsic volcanic rocks (the Huili Group) that erupted after c. 1050 Ma. However, we report here new age constraints, elemental and Lu–Hf isotope geochemistry for a different suite of older basaltic agglomerate lava, basaltic tuff lava and basalt from the same area, which we name the Luonie Formation. New dating results show that the basaltic volcanic suite of the upper part of the Luonie Formation formed at 1126.1 ± 9.9 Ma, significantly earlier than deposition of the Huili Group, but comparable in age to the 1142 ± 16 Ma Laowushan Formation in central Yunnan Province. Granite intrusion into the Luonie Formation dated 1050.7 ± 12.7 Ma provides crucial supporting evidence for this earlier depositional age. We also report a maximum sedimentary age of c. 1158 Ma for the underlying arkose, implying stratigraphic conformity with the basaltic volcanic rock suite.

The ϵHf(t) values of the basaltic volcanic rocks are mainly positive, indicating that the rocks are mainly derived from the depleted mantle and slightly stained by crustal materials. The characteristics of P*, Nb* and Zr* anomalies also support this view. The distribution patterns of trace and rare earth elements indicate that the basaltic volcanic rocks formed in an extensional setting. The Zr/4–Y–2Nb and Th–Nb/16–Zr/117 discrimination diagrams also provide evidence for this understanding. Lithofacies analysis shows that basaltic volcanic wrocks with the characteristics of both continental and marine facies should be formed in a littoral–neritic environment. We propose here that the evidence is consistent with a phase of continental extension that preceded the convergence of the SW Yangtze Block to form part of Rodinia.
Hybridization between Anguillicola crassus and A. novaezelandiae, and viability of the F1 generation
Authors: Honka K.I. , Grabner D. , Sures B.
Published: March 2022

For decades, it has remained unclear how the Asian swim bladder nematode Anguillicola crassus was able to supplant the previously stable population of its relative from New Zealand Anguillicola novaezelandiae in the Lake Bracciano, Italy. Previously, researchers have hypothesized that A. crassus possesses an ecological advantage due to a more efficient life cycle in combination with a pattern of unidirectional hybridization between A. novaezelandiae females and A. crassus males. The present study focuses on the viability of hybrid offspring and their allelic pattern, particularly in developed adult stages of the hybrid F1 generation. While the percentages of hybrid individuals from A. novaezelandiae mothers and A. crassus fathers increased from egg to adult stages, it was more distinct in egg stages of A. crassus females and A. novaezelandiae males, but did not occur in adult F1 individuals at all. Therefore, we corroborate the hypothesis of unidirectional hybridization by differentiating between egg and adult stages, and suggest this as another explanatory factor for the extinction of A. novaezelandiae in Lake Bracciano in Italy and the predominance of A. crassus.
Modelling, simulation and experimental validation of wheel and arm locomotion based wall-climbing robot
Authors: Bisht Ravindra Singh , Pathak Pushparaj Mani , Panigrahi Soraj Kumar
Published: March 2022

This article presents modelling, simulation, and development of a wall-climbing robot based on coupled wheel and arm-type locomotion mechanism. The developed robot consists of two mobile modules connected with a robot arm mechanism. The actuation of the robot arm is inspired by inchworm locomotion, particularly during wall-to-wall transition, obstacle avoidance, and uneven surface locomotion. Easiness in the interchanging of wheel to arm and vice versa makes the robot more effective compared to previously developed wall-climbing robots. The kinematic and dynamic model for the proposed coupled wheel and arm locomotion concept has been established. A combination of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and proportional, integral, derivatives (PID) feedback control algorithm has been developed using MATLAB to simulate the different cases of robot motions. The developed prototype of the wall-climbing robot is used to verify the coupled wheel and arm locomotion concept in various wall climbing scenarios. The simulation and experimental findings show good comparisons and validate the model-based design of the wall-climbing robot.
Sustained radiation reduction following initial quality improvement intervention in a paediatric cardiac catheterisation laboratory
Authors: McKeiver Anthony , Marshall Jennifer , Churchill Peter , Bittel Douglas , O’Brien James E. , Kaine Stephen , Bingler Michael
Published: March 2022

Background:

As part of a quality improvement project beginning in October 2011, our centre introduced changes to reduce radiation exposure during paediatric cardiac catheterisations. This led to significant initial decreases in radiation to patients. Starting in April 2016, we sought to determine whether these initial reductions were sustained.

Methods:

After a 30-day trial period, we implemented (1) weight-based reductions in preset frame rates for fluoroscopy and angiography, (2) increased use of collimators and safety shields, (3) utilisation of stored fluoroscopy and virtual magnification, and (4) hiring of a devoted radiation technician. We collected patient weight (kg), total fluoroscopy time (min), and procedure radiation dosage (cGy-cm2) for cardiac catheterisations between October, 2011 and September, 2019.

Results:

A total of 1889 procedures were evaluated (196 pre-intervention, 303 in the post-intervention time period, and 1400 in the long-term group). Fluoroscopy times (18.3 ± 13.6 pre; 19.8 ± 14.1 post; 17.11 ± 15.06 long-term, p = 0.782) were not significantly different between the three groups. Patient mean radiation dose per kilogram decreased significantly after the initial quality improvement intervention (39.7% reduction, p = 0.039) and was sustained over the long term (p = 0.043). Provider radiation exposure was also significantly decreased from the onset of this project through the long-term period (overall decrease of 73%, p < 0.01) despite several changes in the interventional cardiologists who made up the team over this time period.

Conclusion:

Introduction of technical and clinical practice changes can result in a significant reduction in radiation exposure for patients and providers in a paediatric cardiac catheterisation laboratory. These reductions can be maintained over the long term.
The roles of intolerance of uncertainty, anxiety sensitivity and distress tolerance in hoarding disorder compared with OCD and healthy controls
Authors: Hillman Shemariah R. , Lomax Claire L. , Khaleel Nadeen , Smith Theresa R. , Gregory James D.
Published: March 2022

Background:

It is suggested that the different psychological vulnerability factors of intolerance of uncertainty (IU), anxiety sensitivity (AS) and distress tolerance (DT) may be in important in hoarding disorder (HD). However, the extent to which these factors are specific to HD compared with other disorders remains unclear.

Aims:

The current study aimed to investigate differences in IU, AS and DT in three groups: HD (n=66), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD; n=59) and healthy controls (HCs; n=63).

Method:

Participants completed an online battery of standardised self-report measures to establish the independent variable of group membership (HD, OCD and HC) and the dependent variables (IU, AS and DT).

Results:

A MANOVA analysis indicated statistically significant differences in IU, AS and DT between the clinical groups and HCs. Follow-up analyses showed no statistically significant differences between the HD and OCD group for any of the three constructs. The results remained the same when examining the effects of co-morbid HD and OCD. An unexpected finding was the trend for IU, AS and DT to be more severe when HD and OCD were co-morbid.

Conclusions:

The evidence suggests the absence of a specific relationship between IU, AS or DT in HD and instead is consistent with existing research which suggests that these psychological vulnerability factors are transdiagnostic constructs across anxiety disorders. The implications of the findings are discussed.
Mass‐Wasting‐Inferred Dramatic Variability of 130,000‐Year Indian Summer Monsoon Intensity From Deposits in the Southeast Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wang Jia , Chen Jianping , Soltanian Mohamad Reza , Dai Zhenxue , WoldeGabriel Giday
Published: March 2022

A large proportion (∼80%) of the Indian subcontinent's precipitation comes from the Indian summer monsoon (ISM), which influences one‐fifth of the world's population. A long‐term reliable proxy for ISM is fundamental to understanding previous global climate change. We establish a mass‐wasting‐inferred proxy to examine the paleo‐hydrogeology (river undercutting history) of the Southeast Tibetan Plateau and reconstruct the dramatic variability of ISM intensity (precipitation) in the past 130,000 years. Our data suggest that mass‐wasting events, which provides us sufficient samples for paleoclimate research, are prone to dramatic climate changes, especially extreme climate environments. The Southeast Tibetan Plateau was subjected to at least four distinct ISM intensity phases in the past 130,000 years. We conclude that ISM intensity has a cyclicity featured by the Earth's orbit with obliquity, and that ISM intensity transition lags the global ice volume (sea level) change by 8–15 kyrs.
A Conceptual Approach to Partitioning a Vertical Profile of Phytoplankton Biomass Into Contributions From Two Communities
Authors: Brewin Robert J. W. , Dall’Olmo Giorgio , Gittings John , Sun Xuerong , Lange Priscila K. , Raitsos Dionysios E. , Bouman Heather A. , Hoteit Ibrahim , Aiken Jim , Sathyendranath Shubha
Published: March 2022

We describe an approach to partition a vertical profile of chlorophyll‐a concentration into contributions from two communities of phytoplankton: one (community 1) that resides principally in the turbulent mixed‐layer of the upper ocean and is observable through satellite visible radiometry; the other (community 2) residing below the mixed‐layer, in a stably stratified environment, hidden from the eyes of the satellite. The approach is tuned to a time‐series of profiles from a Biogeochemical‐Argo float in the northern Red Sea, selected as its location transitions from a deep mixed layer in winter (characteristic of vertically well‐mixed systems) to a shallow mixed layer in the summer with a deep chlorophyll‐a maximum (characteristic of vertically stratified systems). The approach is extended to reproduce profiles of particle backscattering, by deriving the chlorophyll‐specific backscattering coefficients of the two communities and a background coefficient assumed to be dominated by non‐algal particles in the region. Analysis of the float data reveals contrasting phenology of the two communities, with community 1 blooming in winter and 2 in summer, community 1 negatively correlated with epipelagic stratification, and 2 positively correlated. We observe a dynamic chlorophyll‐specific backscattering coefficient for community 1 (stable for community 2), positively correlated with light in the mixed‐layer, suggesting seasonal changes in photoacclimation and/or taxonomic composition within community 1. The approach has the potential for monitoring vertical changes in epipelagic biogeography and for combining satellite and ocean robotic data to yield a three‐dimensional view of phytoplankton distribution.
Saturn’s Powerful Winds Explain Changes in the Length of Its Day
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: March 2022

Atmospheric winds moving at more than 7,000 kilometers per hour distort Saturn’s magnetic field, revealing why spacecraft have measured changes in the length of a day on the ringed world.