bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing multimode applicator of microwave heating system for E‐field distribution using a silicon carbide sensor and a shielded thermocouple
Authors: Iyer Suman B. , Shivashankar Srinivasrao , Sai Ranajit , Atre Madhusudan V. , Bhat Navakanta
Published: August 2022

Measurement of the field distribution in a multimode applicator of a microwave heating system has been a challenging problem. We report here a simple but comprehensive scheme for its semi‐quantitative estimation under no‐load conditions. It involves the measurement of temperature (T) versus time (t) profiles in a small silicon carbide (SiC) sensor ring positioned at the junction end of a metal‐jacketed microwave‐compatible thermocouple probe arrangement. These heating profiles (T vs. t) were measured using a data acquisition system, keeping the SiC ring at different (x, y, z) positions in the applicator. Using this measurement scheme, the spatial positions with local field minimum as inferred from very high reflected power or those with local field maximum with associated thermal runaway type condition could be well identified. Given the thermal and the dielectric properties of SiC material and the physical dimensions of the sensor ring, a uniform microwave field‐based model with a thermal lumped element type approximation (with no thermal gradient across SiC) was applied for analysis of the T versus t heating profiles. Within this model, the locally effective electric field E could be inferred for low and moderate electric field ranges. While the accuracy of the field estimation is currently limited by the use of the metal‐jacketed thermocouple and other factors, this SiC sensor‐based methodology has the potential to be developed further to be useful in the area of microwave applicator design.
Photoactivity of nanostructured porous Nb2O5: Effect of Pt, Ta, Cu, and Ti impregnation
Authors: Antonini Leonardo Marasca , Adamski Janice , Bernardi Fabiano , Aguzzoli Cesar , Hübler Roberto , de Fraga Malfatti Célia
Published: August 2022

In the present work, we report the obtaining of nanostructured porous Nb2O5 by anodizing process, with Pt, Ta, Cu, or Ti impregnation, and by magnetron sputtering process. The techniques of scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to evaluate the morphology, and the composition and crystalline structure of nanoporous Nb2O5. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by electrochemical photocurrent tests under UV light illumination. Nanostructured porous Nb2O5 with Pt, Ta, Cu, and Ti impregnation presented bandgap reduction and 10 times higher photocurrent density in the presence of UV light when compared to the not impregnated nanoporous Nb2O5.
Borate Buffer as a Key Player in Cu‐Based Homogeneous Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Ruan Guilin , Fridman Natalia , Maayan Galia
Published: August 2022

Borate buffer was found to have both structural and functional roles within a low‐cost tri‐copper electrocatalyst for homogeneous water oxidation that exhibits a high turnover frequency of 310 s−1. The borate buffer was shown to facilitate the catalytic activity by both bridging the three Cu ions and participating in O−O bond formation. Phosphate and acetate buffers did not show such roles, making borate a unique player in this catalytic system.
Water‐Mediated Epoxy/Surface Adhesion: Understanding the Interphase Region
Authors: Wand Charlie R. , Gibbon Simon , Visser Peter , Siperstein Flor R.
Published: August 2022

Epoxy resins coatings are commonly found in corrosion protection coatings but the presence of water can affect their adhesion to the substrate, often weakening the adhesion of the coating to the solid, reducing its efficiency. Nevertheless, small amounts of water can enhance the epoxy/substrate interactions. In this work, the interphase region of an epoxy precursor and metal oxide substrates is investigated using molecular simulations and it is found that water accumulates between the epoxy layer and the solid substrate. At high water concentrations (9 wt %) the interaction between the epoxy precursor and the solid surface is weakened regardless of the nature of the solid, but at low water concentrations the nature of the solid surface becomes important. For hematite, the presence of water decreases the strength of adhesion but for goethite the presence of a small amount of water (3 wt %) enhances the adhesion to the surface resulting in a densification at the interface.
The impact of COVID‐19 on clinical outcomes among acute myocardial infarction patients undergoing early invasive treatment strategy
Authors: Sharma Prerna , Shah Kajal , Loomba Johanna , Patel Arti , Mallawaarachchi Indika , Blazek Olivia , Ratcliffe Sarah , Breathett Khadijah , Johnson Amber E. , Taylor Angela M. , Salerno Michael , Ragosta Michael , Sodhi Nishtha , Addison Daniel , Mohammed Selma , Bilchick Kenneth C. , Mazimba Sula
Published: August 2022

Background

The implications of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection on outcomes after invasive therapeutic strategies among patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are not well studied.

Hypothesis

To assess the outcomes of COVID‐19 patients presenting with AMI undergoing an early invasive treatment strategy.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional, retrospective analysis of the National COVID Cohort Collaborative database including all patients presenting with a recorded diagnosis of AMI (ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (MI) and non‐ST elevation MI). COVID‐19 positive patients with AMI were stratified into one of four groups: (1a) patients who had a coronary angiogram with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 3 days of their AMI; (1b) PCI within 3 days of AMI with coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) within 30 days; (2a) coronary angiogram without PCI and without CABG within 30 days; and (2b) coronary angiogram with CABG within 30 days. The main outcomes were respiratory failure, cardiogenic shock, prolonged length of stay, rehospitalization, and death.

Results

There were 10 506 COVID‐19 positive patients with a diagnosis of AMI. COVID‐19 positive patients with PCI had 8.2 times higher odds of respiratory failure than COVID‐19 negative patients (p = .001). The odds of prolonged length of stay were 1.7 times higher in COVID‐19 patients who underwent PCI (p = .024) and 1.9 times higher in patients who underwent coronary angiogram followed by CABG (p = .001).

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that COVID‐19 positive patients with AMI undergoing early invasive coronary angiography had worse outcomes than COVID‐19 negative patients.
Automated software effort estimation for agile development system by heuristically improved hybrid learning
Authors: Gupta Neha , Mahapatra Rajendra Prasad
Published: August 2022

In the process of modern software development, an important role is played by software effort estimation. The failure or success of the projects is mostly based on the schedule outcomes and effort estimation accuracy. The effort estimation problem still remains as a challenging issue because of the limitations of various standard measures for forecasting the efforts in the plan‐driven software development. This article emphasizes on novel software effort estimation framework using heuristically improved hybrid learning model. This article proposes heuristically improved hybrid learning (HI‐HL) with deep belief network and artificial neural network for software effort estimation. The weight optimization strategy of DBN and ANN to attain highly accurate estimation. Here, the weight optimization is performed by integrating two standard optimization algorithms such as forest optimization algorithm and moth‐flame optimization, so called as solution index‐based forest moth flame optimization with the purpose of solving the fitness function concerning the “Magnitude of Relative Error and Mean Absolute Error (MAE).” From the table results, for dataset 1, the SMAPE of SI‐FMFO‐HI‐HL is correspondingly secured 60.75%, 34.26%, 56.77%, and 61.44% improved than ELM, LSTM, DNN, and fuzzy. The simulation findings indicated that the recommended estimation model outperformed the baseline approaches on the three publically available datasets.
Development of diagnostic SNP markers for identification of rye 1RS translocations in wheat
Authors: Liu Zhao , Li Yaoguang , Bernardo Amy , Amand Paul St. , Zhang Pingping , Sehgal Sunish , Bai Guihua
Published: August 2022

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) wild relatives are rich genetic resources for genetic improvement of wheat. The short arm of rye (Secale cereale L.) chromosome 1 (1RS) contains many beneficial genes for resistance to drought, insects, and diseases, therefore the 1RS wheat translocations have been widely used in wheat breeding programs worldwide. To facilitate marker‐assisted identification of 1RS in wheat breeding, we designed a set of Kompetitive allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) markers to detect the translocations of 1RS with long arm from wheat chromosome 1A (1RS.1AL) and 1RS with long arm from wheat chromosome 1B (1RS.1BL) based on the sequence flanking single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) generated by genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) between wheat and rye panels. We identified a set of three SNP markers for diagnosis and differentiation of the two 1RS translocations in wheat. Among the three KASP markers, 1AS‐05056 is 1RS specific, and clearly separated the genotypes with 1RS (1RS.1AL and 1RS.1BL) from those without the two 1RS translocations; whereas 1AS‐29875 clearly identified the 1RS.1AL translocation and 1BS‐16654 separated 1RS.1BL from 1RS.1AL. The three new KASP markers together accurately identified the presence of 1RS translocation on either 1A or 1B chromosome in a panel of 95 representative U.S. winter wheat accessions, which were further validated in two additional U.S. hard winter wheat panels. Therefore, they can be used for routine screening of 1RS.1BL and 1RS.1AL translocation lines in wheat breeding programs.
Difluoro(oxalato)borate's Role in the Intercalation Behavior of Mixed Anions from Sulfolane
Authors: Wang Yunju , Ma Shunchao , Wang Hongyu
Published: August 2022

Some previous studies have found the synergistic effect of mixed anions in dual‐ion batteries (DIBs). In this work, both lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF4) and lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) were dissolved in sulfolane (SL) solvent, and the resultant solutions were applied for DIBs. The storage behavior of mixed anions in natural graphite positive electrodes was investigated. In‐situ X‐ray diffraction measurements revealed both anions could participate in the formation of graphite intercalation compounds. Their evolution followed with the decreasing tendency of discharge capacities as the content of LiDFOB increased in solutions. The exchange of anions was discussed.
The need for IUCN species distribution update—The case from takin (Budorcas taxicolor) in Southwest China
Authors: Tianpei Guan , Owens Jacob R. , Kong Yang , Jian Yang , Xiaodong Gu , Yanling Song
Published: August 2022

Species distributions are one of the fundamental factors needed for understanding and conserving wildlife. While the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is the primary applied reference for biodiversity conservation, limitations in data availability and analyses of the distributions of some species may limit accurate threat classification assessments and conservation recommendations. Improving the accuracy of species distributions in light of growing data and analytical methods is a key step to increasing the efficacy of the Red List. In this study, we reassessed the distribution of takin (Budorcas taxicolor tibetana), a large ungulate in Sichuan Province, southwest China, classified by the IUCN as vulnerable. Using species distribution models and reported habitat requirements, we updated the takin distribution map. Our updated distribution range in the study area (79,449 km2) was 61.31% of the current distribution range (CDR) on the IUCN Red List. This reduction was in large part due to the inclusion in the CDR of substantial areas of lowland plains, high human disturbance, and non‐forest habitat, which provide no suitable habitat for takin. According to our results, suitable takin habitat covered 18.97% of the CDR, suggesting a substantially overestimated distribution. However, there are high proportions of habitat (40%) still covered by the nature reserve network, indicating the importance of protected areas (PAs) in the conservation threaten species. We recommend that experts apply the basic approach presented herein to update the Red List distributions for more species to increase the accuracy of assessments and resulting conservation applications.
Age group DNA methylation differences in lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris): Implications for future age estimation tools
Authors: Beal Andria Paige , Hackerott Serena , Feldheim Kevin , Gruber Samuel H. , Eirin‐Lopez Jose M.
Published: August 2022

Age information is often non‐existent for most shark populations due to a lack of measurable physiological and morphological traits that can be used to estimate age. Recently, epigenetic clocks have been found to accurately estimate age for mammals, birds, and fish. However, since these clocks rely, among other things, on the availability of reference genomes, their application is hampered in non‐traditional model organisms lacking such molecular resources. The technique known as Methyl‐Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism (MSAP) has emerged as a valid alternative for studying DNA methylation biomarkers when reference genome information is missing, and large numbers of samples need to be processed. Accordingly, the MSAP technique was used in the present study to characterize global DNA methylation patterns in lemon sharks from three different age groups (juveniles, subadults, and adults). The obtained results reveal that, while MSAP analyses lack enough resolution as a standalone approach to infer age in these organisms, the global DNA methylation patterns observed using this technique displayed significant differences between age groups. Overall, these results confer that DNA methylation does change with age in sharks like what has been seen for other vertebrates and that MSAP could be useful as part of an epigenetics pipeline to infer the broad range of ages found in large samples sizes.
Lateralization in 11C‐Metomidate PET and outcome of adrenalectomy in primary aldosteronism
Authors: Isojärvi Juhani , Viukari Marianna , Pörsti Ilkka , Leijon Helena , Vesterinen Tiina , Seppänen Marko , Nevalainen Pasi I. , Matikainen Niina
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Subtype classification method is essential when considering adrenalectomy as a possible treatment for primary aldosteronism. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate surgical outcomes of primary aldosteronism in patients who had undergone 11C‐metomidate positron emission tomography (11C‐MTO‐PET) for subtype classification.

Methods

Postoperative clinical and biochemical cure and histopathological diagnosis from biobank samples were retrospectively evaluated in 44 patients who had all undergone preoperative 11C‐MTO‐PET with or without adrenal venous sampling (AVS). We compared those operated based on 11C‐MTO‐PET alone and those with concordant or discordant lateralization in 11C‐MTO‐PET and AVS studies according to postoperative immunohistochemical findings and biochemical and clinical cure.

Results

Adrenalectomy side was based on 11C‐MTO‐PET alone in 14 cases and on AVS in 30 cases of whom 42 achieved complete and two partial biochemical cures. Among those who underwent AVS and were operated according to it, the two lateralization methods were concordant in 22 cases and discordant in 8 cases. Similar immunohistochemical profiles and cure rates were seen after 11C‐MTO‐PET alone or AVS‐based operations. Respectively, those with concordant or discordant 11C‐MTO‐PET and AVS lateralization did not differ in surgical outcome. Together, we found errors of lateralization diagnostics with 11C‐MTO‐PET in 18% and with AVS in 3% among those eligible for adrenal surgery.

Conclusions

Outcomes of adrenalectomy based on clinically significant lateralization in 11C‐MTO‐PET alone correspond to those based on 11C‐MTO‐PET with concordant AVS lateralization. However, our results suggest that diagnosis of unilateral PA should be performed with caution with 11C‐MTO‐PET in case of discordant lateralization studies.
Endoscopic pituitary surgery: National database review
Authors: Al‐Qurayshi Zaid , Bennion Douglas M. , Greenlee Jeremy D. W. , Graham Scott M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Pituitary tumors surgery is increasingly performed via endoscopic transsphenoidal approach (TSP). This study describes outcomes of TSP surgery in the United States.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional analysis of adult patients with pituitary adenoma was performed using the Nationwide Readmissions Database, 2010–2015.

Results

A total of 5891 patients were identified. The average age was 51.29 ± 0.29 years. The risk of postoperative epistaxis, diabetes insipidus, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and other general postoperative complications was 0.71%, 10.20%, 8.35%, and 2.37%, respectively. Independent risk factors of CSF leak included: age <65‐year, male, body mass index ≥25, and multiple comorbidities (p < 0.001 each). The prevalence of CSF leak was not associated with hospital TSP volume and teaching status.

Conclusion

This study provides a national epidemiological perspective on TSP in the United States. The risk of postoperative CSF leak appears to be associated with intrinsic patient factors rather than resource and expertise availability.
Building then dismantling relational coordination: Mechanisms that distinguish functional and dysfunctional dynamics between HR practices and relational coordination
Authors: Kim Najung , Noh Sung‐Chul
Published: August 2022

With the growing importance of relational coordination in today's multidisciplinary, interdependent work environment, practitioners are faced with challenges in designing and implementing relationship‐oriented HR practices. We aim to identify key mechanisms either enabling or inhibiting the functional interplay between HR practices and relational coordination. Through an inductive qualitative study of a newsroom organization in Korea before and after the changes in its HR practices, we compared and contrasted functional and dysfunctional dynamics among HR practices, interpersonal relationships, and relational coordination. Before the changes, reporters coordinated across levels and functions as HR practices integrated formal and informal interactions and supported the shared notion on which professional behaviors and values are expected of a reporter. However, with the changes in HR practices, relational coordination among reporters dismantled as they experienced segregation between formal and informal interactions and upheld two different notions of journalistic values. Reporters were divided into two separate informal groups which rarely overlapped with formal work groups and these segregated interactions prevented reporters from sharing knowledge across levels and functions. Further, with the conflicting notion of journalistic values, reporters constantly debated over specific goals of practicing journalism and expressed disrespect toward those who held a different set of journalistic values. These findings redirect research by highlighting the fragility of relational coordination and the importance of designing HR practices which reflect formal and informal relational dynamics among employees and consolidate members under the same shared notion of professional values.
“I left my shyness behind”: Sustainable community‐led development and processes of motivation among rural Nicaraguan women
Authors: Cloete Elene , House Alexandra , Velasquez Luz D. , Calderon Mario , Lopez Juan , Rivera Ricardo , Rivera Lenin , Handley Lauren
Published: August 2022

This paper explores motivational changes of Nicaraguan women involved in sustainable community‐led development. Sustainability is the goal of many organizations engaged with capacity development interventions. Research on what such sustainability entails point to a correlation between sustained action by communities, postintervention, and high levels of social capital, collective agency, and efficacy. But what factors motivate people to develop the social capital, self‐efficacy, and agency that enable them to sustain their actions towards their communities’ well‐being? Using Self‐Determination Theory as framework, and drawing from interview data, this qualitative paper explores the psychosocial processes rural Nicaraguan women undergo when initially engaging in, and eventually committing to community‐led projects. Types of motivation in combination with shifts from initial to more sustained forms of motivation, we conclude, can inform current and future community development interventions on the role motivation plays toward establishing agency, efficacy, and relationships—that is, essential components of sustainable community development.
An evidence‐based practice guideline of the National Society of Genetic Counselors for telehealth genetic counseling
Authors: Green Sarah , Hartzfeld Deborah , Terry Alissa Bovee , Fissell Kristi , Friedman Sue , Paolino Nicholas , Principe Kate , Sandbach John , Trzupek Karmen , Winheld Stephanie , Malinowski Jennifer
Published: August 2022

There are currently no practice guidelines available for genetic counseling using telehealth modalities. This evidence‐based practice guideline was developed in response to increasing use of alternative service delivery models for genetic counseling, specifically telephone and video‐based genetic counseling (telehealth genetic counseling or THGC). A recent systematic evidence review (SER) compared outcomes of THGC with in‐person genetic counseling and found that for the majority of studied outcomes, THGC was a non‐inferior and comparable service delivery model. The SER results were used to develop this guideline. The current and anticipated future use of THGC, including the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic, provides the context for this guideline. Recommendation: The Telehealth Practice Guideline author workgroup conditionally recommends telehealth genetic counseling, either via telephone or video, as a delivery method for genetic counseling. Depending on factors unique to individual healthcare systems and provider and patient populations, THGC may be the only service delivery model available or may be utilized in addition to other service delivery models including in‐person genetic counseling. The evidence shows large desirable effects, minor undesirable effects, and increased equity for patients when THGC is available. THGC may reduce or remove existing barriers to patient access to genetic counseling, such as medical conditions and/or disabilities that may affect a patient's ability to travel, inflexible work or school schedules, and lack of reliable transportation, finances, or dependent care. THGC is likely acceptable to key groups impacted by its use and is feasible to implement. Certain patient populations may require additional resources or encounter more barriers in using telemedicine services in general. For these populations, THGC can still be a valuable option if solutions are available.
Declines in the utilization of hospital‐based care during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kazakova Sophia V. , Baggs James , Parra Gemma , Yusuf Hussain , Romano Sebastian D. , Ko Jean Y. , Harris Aaron M. , Wolford Hannah , Rose Ashley , Reddy Sujan C. , Jernigan John A.
Published: August 2022

The disruptions of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic impacted the delivery and utilization of healthcare services with potential long‐term implications for population health and the hospital workforce. Using electronic health record data from over 700 US acute care hospitals, we documented changes in admissions to hospital service areas (inpatient, observation, emergency room [ER], and same‐day surgery) during 2019−2020 and examined whether surges of COVID‐19 hospitalizations corresponded with increased inpatient disease severity and death rate. We found that in 2020, hospitalizations declined by 50% in April, with greatest declines occurring in same‐day surgery (−73%). The youngest patients (0−17) experienced largest declines in ER, observation, and same‐day surgery admissions; inpatient admissions declined the most among the oldest patients (65+). Infectious disease admissions increased by 52%. The monthly measures of inpatient case mix index, length of stay, and non‐COVID death rate were higher in all months in 2020 compared with respective months in 2019.
Characterization of sonicated gluten protein and subsequent rheological properties of model dough and noodles
Authors: Guo Zehang , Zhang Hongxin , Chen Kewei , Wang Zhirong , Chen Guangjing , Yang Bing , Kan Jianquan
Published: August 2022

Background

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the thermo‐mechanical and rheological properties of a wheat gluten‐sonicated model dough and noodles, as well as the effects of ultrasonic frequency (20, 28, 40, 68 and 80 kHz) on the functional properties and structural features of gluten.

Results

Water absorption, stability and developmental time, and viscoelastic behavior of gluten‐sonicated model dough were all found to be improved. Water absorption, tensile resistance and stretching distance of noodles increased markedly, whereas cooking loss decreased. Ultrasonication at different frequencies also significantly affected gluten structure, including its surface hydrophobicity, micro‐network structure, and secondary and tertiary structures. These alterations then caused changes in its functional characteristics. Compared to untreated gluten, sonicated gluten exhibited significantly increased oil and water capacities (8.75–15.26% and 100.65–127.71% higher than the untreated gluten, respectively), foaming and emulsifying properties, and increased solubility (63.46–98.83% higher than control). In addition, these findings indicated that 40 kHz was the likely resonance frequency of the cavitation bubble in the gluten solution. However, sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis electropherograms revealed that such treatments did not affect the molecular weight of gluten, which was also consistent with its unchanged disulfide bond content.

Conclusion

The present study clarified the impact of frequency on the properties of gluten and model dough. The best frequency for modification of gluten was 40 kHz. Collectively, these findings suggest that ultrasonic technology has the potential for use in modifying wheat gluten and commercial noodle processing. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Oxidative digestion of dissolved N‐compounds by the UV/O3 process: Kinetic models and rate constants
Authors: Cai Rongyao , Shou Weiqiang , Lai Shanbao , Chen Huixuan , Liu Zhengyu , Zhou Mengfei , Sun Xiaofang
Published: August 2022

In this study, the reaction mechanisms and kinetic of UV/O3 digestion processes were explored with ammonium chloride and urea as the target pollutants, focused on the ozone direct oxidation and hydroxyl radical oxidation parts. Under the conditions of dual environmental digestion method, two kinds of kinetic models were proposed by competitive kinetic method with Rct based on the different scale of rate constants of hydroxyl radical oxidation. Subsequently, the second‐order rate constants of ammonia (pH 11) and urea (pH 2) was determined to be 4.613 ± 0.094 and 0.378 ± 0.006 M–1 s–1 by ozone direct oxidation, and (6.154 ± 0.971) × 107 and (2.257 ± 0.513) × 106 M–1 s–1 by hydroxyl radical oxidation, respectively. Compared with contribution level of two parts to the digestion process, it was shown that in the digestion of ammonia, ozone and •OH radical contribute equally (58.86%, 41.14%). In contrast, in the case of urea, ozone (86.10%) contributes more than •OH radical.
Forward and reverse evolution of multivariate responses to cyanobacteria in experimental waterflea populations
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Jiang Xiaodong
Published: August 2022

Studies of rapid evolution under changing environments are important for understanding the evolutionary fate of populations and the future of biodiversity. We used experimental evolution to test whether the presence of toxic cyanobacteria and its subsequent removal could lead to rapid forward and reverse genetic changes in multiple traits of the zooplankter Ceriodaphnia cornuta. In the forward selection experiment, the covariant pattern in multivariate trait space provided strong evidence of adaptive evolution in multiple traits at two selection levels, in the presence of toxic cyanobacteria. The C. cornuta population under high selection pressure showed higher tolerance than those under low selection pressure. The total trait change generated through evolutionary responses (constitutive evolution and evolution of plasticity) ranged from 0.2% to 32.2%, depending on the trait and selection level. After the relaxation of selection, almost all evolved traits were restored to their original state when the C. cornuta population were fed pure green algae. That is, the toxin‐tolerant phenotypes were culled off from the population in the absence of the selection pressure, suggesting a heavy cost of maintaining tolerance. The genotype dynamics indicated that asymmetric intraspecific competition may be the main force driving the rapid reverse evolution. These results suggest that the change in cyanobacteria biomass, from proliferation to decline, resulted in rapid forward and reverse evolution of multivariate phenotypic responses in the freshwater zooplankton grazer C. cornuta.
Effect of rare earth on inclusion evolution and corrosion resistance of HRB400E steel
Authors: Huang Fei , Li Jing , Geng Ruming , Wang Changcheng
Published: August 2022

The effect of rare earth elements Ce and La on the evolution behavior of inclusions in HRB400E steel was studied through experimental observations and thermodynamic calculations. Neutral salt spray corrosion experiments were also conducted to investigate the effect of Ce–La on the corrosion resistance of steel. The results showed that the typical inclusions in steel without rare earth were MnS and MnO–SiO2. A small amount of Mn–Si–O–S inclusions was also observed. After adding rare earth, the typical inclusions were transformed into isolated (Ce,La)2O2S, (Ce,La)2O3 + MnS, and (Ce,La)2O2S + MnS complex inclusions. The thermodynamic calculations indicated that the rare earth elements in molten steel preferentially reacted with MnO–SiO2 inclusions and dissolved oxygen and sulfur to form (Ce,La)2O3 and (Ce,La)2O2S. Small amounts of [S] and [Mn] adhered to the surface of the nucleated rare earth inclusions to form complex inclusions. After Ce–La treatment, the corrosion rate of the steel decreased from 3.491 to 1.992 mm year−1, and the corrosion resistance was improved. The change in corrosion behavior is due to the modification of the inclusions into rare earth inclusions with good compatibility with the steel matrix.
What drives preference for the compromise option? Disentangling position‐based versus attribute‐based effects
Authors: Kim Jungkeun , Spence Mark T. , Oppewal Harmen , Park Jongwon , Marshall Roger
Published: August 2022

The compromise effect exists where consumers show a disproportional preference for the option with intermediate attribute levels in a choice set. The effect has been widely observed in the literature. Other research has demonstrated the benefits of a product physically occupying a middle position, regardless of relative attribute levels. Both streams of research thus show that consumers' preferences are influenced by the display format of the choice set, with benefits accruing to the middle option. This research demonstrates that the compromise effect comprises both an attribute‐based and a position‐based component by disentangling these two effects. We demonstrate the coexistence of both components in a series of five experiments, including a field experiment, that systematically vary an option's position based on relative attribute levels and in terms of position. Existing literature on the compromise effect only to a limited extent accounts for this possibility, even though it has significant theoretical and practical relevance. While brands largely determine attribute levels, marketers/retailers can often determine a brand's display position. We also establish the moderating role of time pressure and find that the position component becomes more prominent when time is constrained while the attribute effect becomes more prominent when time is unconstrained.
Family caregivers' experiences of caring for neonates undergoing enterostomy in China: A qualitative study
Authors: Ni Zhi Hong , Ding Sheng , Wu Jin Hua , Wang Fang
Published: August 2022

Aim

To describe the nursing experiences and care needs of family caregivers caring for neonates with enterostomies in China.

Design

A qualitative study.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with family caregivers who care for neonates undergoing enterostomy. Family caregivers were selected using a purposive sampling method from three children's hospitals until no new data were generated (N = 26). Data analysis applied the thematic analysis method. The caregivers' experiences were described using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The experience of family caregivers was described as growing in adaptation, where five main themes emerged: (1) complex emotional responses; (2) uncertainty about everything; (3) lack of confidence, anxiety and helplessness; (4) eagerness for professional support; (5) active adaptation, gain‐harvest and gain‐growth. These findings increased understanding and added knowledge on this topic that is rarely studied in China. Healthcare authorities and professionals should recognize and understand the lives and situations of family caregivers (whose neonates undergo enterostomy) to better identify their difficulties and needs.
The effects of receiver arrangement on velocity analysis with multi‐concurrent receiver GPR data
Authors: Angelis Dimitrios , Warren Craig , Diamanti Nectaria , Martin James , Annan A. Peter
Published: August 2022

Determining subsurface electromagnetic (EM) wave velocity is critical for ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) data analysis, as velocity is used for the time‐to‐depth conversion, and hence leads to obtaining the precise location of the objects of interest. Currently, the way to acquire detailed subsurface EM wave velocity models involves employing multi‐offset GPR surveys, such as wide‐angle reflection‐refraction (WARR), in conjunction with normal moveout (NMO) based velocity analysis. Traditionally, these surveys are carried out using two separate transducers and were, therefore, time‐consuming and had limited uptake. Recent advances in GPR hardware have allowed the development of novel systems with multi‐concurrent sampling receivers, which enable rapid and dense acquisition of WARR data. These additional receivers increase the overall size, weight and cost of the system. Therefore, we investigated the effects of receiver arrangement on NMO‐based velocity analysis and considered reducing the overall number of transducers, whilst maintaining satisfactory velocity spectra resolution and, hence, obtaining detailed stacking velocity models as well as improved stacked reflection sections. We used both simulated data from complex three‐dimensional models as well as field data and examined different numbers and positions of receivers in different environments. Our results show that velocity spectra resolution can be maintained within acceptable limits whilst reducing the number of receivers from a configuration with seven equally spaced receivers, to a sparse configuration of four receivers. Thus, being able to decrease the number of receivers used by these new GPR systems will reduce both the total system weight and cost and, hopefully, increase their adoption for GPR surveys.
Burden and unmet needs in asthma care in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Wadhawan Surbhi , Muthukumaru Umadevi A. , Loh Li Cher
Published: August 2022

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease with increasing global prevalence. It affects approximately 300 million people globally and more than a third of these patients have uncontrolled asthma. The burden of poorly controlled asthma is considerable both for the individuals and the society. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that, 455,000 people died from asthma worldwide in 2019, the majority in low and low‐middle‐income countries. This article highlights the unmet needs and burden of asthma in the Asia‐Pacific region where many patients have poorly controlled asthma despite advances in asthma care and treatment. A mismatch between patients’ (and physicians’) perception of asthma control and optimal asthma control as defined by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) is a challenge in the real‐life management of many patients. Consequently, treatment adherence and optimization are affected. In many of these aspects, patients with asthma in the Asia‐Pacific region are comparatively worse than those from Europe and North America. In future, cooperation of all stakeholders is needed in improving awareness, education, and goal‐directed management of asthma with meaningful improvement in quality of life. This article draws attention to some of the important gaps in asthma management in the Asia‐Pacific region and suggests some measures to address these unmet needs.
Bilioptysis associated with alcohol hepatitis without evidence of bronchobiliary fistula: A rare case report
Authors: Ngo Jennifer , Wenger Mathew , Chee Alex
Published: August 2022

The presence of bilirubin in the sputum is uncommon but, when present, is most commonly associated with the presence of bronchobiliary fistula, which could be associated with a number of underlying conditions. However, the finding of bilioptysis without bronchobiliary fistula is uncommon, with one associated mechanism postulated to involve increased capillary membrane permeability. This case report describes a patient presenting with bilioptysis while being medically managed with prednisolone for severe alcoholic hepatitis. The patient developed hospital‐acquired pneumonia during her hospitalization associated with bilioptysis, resulting in progressive respiratory failure requiring ventilatory support. Alcohol‐related pulmonary dysfunction alters pulmonary immune processes, leading to increased susceptibility to pulmonary infection and disrupting the basal alveolar epithelial membrane, thus increasing permeability. This patient's findings were in the absence of a bronchobiliary or bronchopleural fistula, and we hypothesize that increased capillary membrane permeability was contributory to the bilioptysis in this case.
Multivariate measurement error models with normal mean‐variance mixture distributions
Authors: Mirfarah Elham , Naderi Mehrdad , Lin Tsung‐I , Wang Wan‐Lun
Published: August 2022

The class of normal mean‐variance mixture (NMVM) distributions is a rich family of asymmetric and heavy‐tailed distributions and has been widely considered in parametric modeling of the data for robust statistical inference. This paper proposes an extension of measurement error models by assuming the NMVM distributions for the unobserved covariates and error terms in the model, referred to as the NMVM‐MEM. An expectation conditional maximization either (ECME) algorithm is developed to compute the maximum likelihood (ML) estimates of model parameters. Furthermore, an information‐based approach is performed to derive the asymptotic covariance matrix of ML estimators. The analysis of a blood pressure dataset illustrates the superiority of NMVM‐MEM to accommodate asymmetry and outliers over the normal counterpart. Two simulation studies are undertaken to validate our proposed techniques.
Structural behavior of full‐scale precast posttensioned girder with substandard transverse reinforcement–experimental and analytical study
Authors: Joyklad Panuwat , Sirisonthi Athasit , Chaiyasarn Krisada , Hussain Qudeer , Suparp Suniti
Published: August 2022

Rapid expansion of developed cities create problems mainly attributed to traffic congestions. Recently, Bangkok has faced rapid growth and the expanded neighborhoods require convenient public transport to be linked with central Bangkok and other parts of Thailand. Monorails can be an exceptional alternative to conventional skylines and subways thankfully to their excellent climbing abilities, lower noise, shorter constructions periods, and their capabilities to be adapted within limited spaces. Recently, Mass Rapid Transit Authority adopted monorail system to facilitate public in Bangkok's expanding neighborhoods. A four‐span continuous posttensioned girder system has been proposed for the straddle monorail system. Current study focuses on the structural response of full‐scale precast posttensioned (FPP) end girders in the proposed monorail system. Results suggested that the girder remained undamaged under service load while exhibiting a linear load versus vertical deflection response. Failure under ultimate load was accompanied by crushing of concrete, buckling of compression longitudinal bars and posttension tendons at the midspan. Further, experimental rosette strains suggested that concrete strains remained well below the ultimate of strains in the vicinity of high shear zones of the girder. Therefore, these results augment that the proposed design practice is safe against shear and the proposed girder can safely be used as the end girder in four‐span straddle monorail system. Nonlinear analysis of the girder was performed using advanced tool for engineering nonlinear analysis by adopting its built‐in constitutive laws for concrete and steel reinforcement. Predicted analytical response of FPP was in good agreement with experimental results in terms of load‐deflection curves, crack patterns, and failure mode.
Eccentric loading behavior of steel tube columns filled with steel‐fiber‐reinforced recycled concrete
Authors: Liu Zhenzhen , Huang Dongming , Lu Yiyan , Li Shan
Published: August 2022

A comprehensive study focuses on the eccentric compressive behavior of steel‐fiber‐reinforced recycled concrete filled steel tube (SRCFST) columns. A total 39 stub columns are tested, and the variables include eccentricity ratio (e/r), steel fiber volume, quality replacement rate of recycled aggregate, concrete strength grade, and diameter–thickness ratio of steel tube. Failure mode, the load–lateral deflection behavior and the moment–curvature response are analyzed. The load–moment interaction relationships, the load–strain responds and the neutral axis position are researched. The results show that the use of recycled aggregate causes the little‐to‐no influence on the eccentric loaded performance of SRCFST columns with a relative smaller e/r. However, the ultimate load and deformability of the columns with higher e/r both decreases rapidly. Adding steel fibers can offset this adverse effect. The addition of steel fibers sustains a higher relative compression region height in the cross section. The ultimate load descent of SRCFST columns due to the increase of e/r is slower than ordinary concrete filled steel tube and recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tube columns. Moreover, on the basis of the unified theory, a calculation model is proposed to predict the ultimate capacity of SRCFST columns under combined loadings. The model captures well the compressive response of SRCFST columns.
Use of coffee waste for the production of biofuels
Authors: Saldaña‐Mendoza S. A. , Martínez‐Hernandez J. L. , Rodríguez‐Herrera R. , Palacios‐Ponce A. S. , Sugathan Shiburaj , Aguilar Cristobal N.
Published: August 2022

Currently, coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world and one of the most important commercial products. However, the industrial processing of this crop generates enormous amounts of waste that are disposed of in the environment, generating a severe pollution problem. This situation raises the need to look for alternatives to use these wastes to reduce their negative impact on the environment. The use of coffee waste to generate biofuels stands out as a viable alternative to mitigate the adverse effects produced by its deposition. This work compiles information on the types of coffee processing, production, and alternatives for the use of waste generated during its processing, highlighting its exploitation in the generation of biofuels.
Automated Topic Categorisation of Citizens’ Contributions: Reducing Manual Labelling Efforts Through Active Learning
Authors: Romberg Julia , Escher Tobias
Published: August 2022

Political authorities in democratic countries regularly consult the public on specific issues but subsequently evaluating the contributions requires substantial human resources, often leading to inefficiencies and delays in the decision-making process. Among the solutions proposed is to support human analysts by thematically grouping the contributions through automated means. While supervised machine learning would naturally lend itself to the task of classifying citizens’ proposal according to certain predefined topics, the amount of training data required is often prohibitive given the idiosyncratic nature of most public participation processes. One potential solution to minimise the amount of training data is the use of active learning. While this semi-supervised procedure has proliferated in recent years, these promising approaches have never been applied to the evaluation of participation contributions. Therefore we utilise data from online participation processes in three German cities, provide classification baselines and subsequently assess how different active learning strategies can reduce manual labelling efforts while maintaining a good model performance. Our results show not only that supervised machine learning models can reliably classify topic categories for public participation contributions, but that active learning significantly reduces the amount of training data required. This has important implications for the practice of public participation because it dramatically cuts the time required for evaluation from which in particular processes with a larger number of contributions benefit.
New renormalons from analytic trans-series
Authors: Mariño Marcos , Miravitllas Ramon , Reis Tomás
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We study the free energy of integrable, asymptotically free field theories in two dimensions coupled to a conserved charge. We develop methods to obtain analytic expressions for its trans-series expansion, directly from the Bethe ansatz equations, and we use this result to determine the structure of its Borel singularities. We find a new class of infrared renormalons which does not fit the traditional expectations of renormalon physics proposed long ago by ’t Hooft and Parisi. We check the existence of these new singularities with detailed calculations based on the resurgent analysis of the perturbative expansion. Our results show that the structure of renormalons in asymptotically free theories is more subtle than previously thought, and that large N estimates of their location might be misleading.
Conformal surface defects in Maxwell theory are trivial
Authors: Herzog Christopher P. , Shrestha Abhay
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We consider a free Maxwell field in four dimensions in the presence of a codimension two defect. Reflection positive, codimension two defects which preserve conformal symmetry in this context are very limited. We show only generalized free fields can appear in the defect operator product expansion of the bulk Maxwell field; in particular correlation functions of these defect operators can be evaluated via Wick’s Theorem.