bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polygenic Risk Score of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis for Potential Clinical Use
Authors: Otomo Nao , Lu Hsing-Fang , Koido Masaru , Kou Ikuyo , Takeda Kazuki , Momozawa Yukihide , Kubo Michiaki , Kamatani Yoichiro , Ogura Yoji , Takahashi Yohei , Nakajima Masahiro , Minami Shohei , Uno Koki , Kawakami Noriaki , Ito Manabu , Sato Tatsuya , Watanabe Kei , Kaito Takashi , Yanagida Haruhisa , Taneichi Hiroshi , Harimaya Katsumi , Taniguchi Yuki , Shigematsu Hideki , Iida Takahiro , Demura Satoru , Sugawara Ryo , Fujita Nobuyuki , Yagi Mitsuru , Okada Eijiro , Hosogane Naobumi , Kono Katsuki , Nakamura Masaya , Chiba Kazuhiro , Kotani Toshiaki , Sakuma Tsuyoshi , Akazawa Tsutomu , Suzuki Teppei , Nishida Kotaro , Kakutani Kenichiro , Tsuji Taichi , Sudo Hideki , Iwata Akira , Kaneko Kazuo , Inami Satoshi , Kochi Yuta , Chang Wei-Chiao , Matsumoto Morio , Watanabe Kota , Ikegawa Shiro , Terao Chikashi
Published: June 2021

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common disease causing three-dimensional spinal deformity in as many as 3% of adolescents. Development of a method that can accurately predict the onset and progression of AIS is an immediate need for clinical practice. Because the heritability of AIS is estimated as high as 87.5% in twin studies, prediction of its onset and progression based on genetic data is a promising option. We show the usefulness of polygenic risk score (PRS) for the prediction of onset and progression of AIS. We used AIS genomewide association study (GWAS) data comprising 79,211 subjects in three cohorts and constructed a PRS based on association statistics in a discovery set including 31,999 female subjects. After calibration using a validation data set, we applied the PRS to a test data set. By integrating functional annotations showing heritability enrichment in the selection of variants, the PRS demonstrated an association with AIS susceptibility (p = 3.5 × 10−40 with area under the receiver-operating characteristic [AUROC] = 0.674, sensitivity = 0.644, and specificity = 0.622). The decile with the highest PRS showed an odds ratio of as high as 3.36 (p = 1.4 × 10−10) to develop AIS compared with the fifth in decile. The addition of a predictive model with only a single clinical parameter (body mass index) improved predictive ability for development of AIS (AUROC = 0.722, net reclassification improvement [NRI] 0.505 ± 0.054, p = 1.6 × 10−8), potentiating clinical use of the prediction model. Furthermore, we found the Cobb angle (CA), the severity measurement of AIS, to be a polygenic trait that showed a significant genetic correlation with AIS susceptibility (rg = 0.6, p = 3.0 × 10−4). The AIS PRS demonstrated a significant association with CA. These results indicate a shared polygenic architecture between onset and progression of AIS and the potential usefulness of PRS in clinical settings as a predictor to promote early intervention of AIS and avoid invasive surgery. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Relative distribution enhancement: a new factor for the evaluation of synergistic solvent extraction
Authors: Gómez‐Sánchez Diana Laura , Koga Hikaru , Kim Yonggu , Udaeta Mauricio Cordova , Dodbiba Gjergj
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Solvent extraction is one of the most used processes worldwide for metal extraction at an industrial and laboratory scale. As a process that requires an external component, the selection of extractants is one of the most studied topics to find the most suitable ones for a particular case. The use of combined reagents, or so‐called synergistic extractants, is a branch of extraction studies that have proven better results than the use of solvents on their own. However, a comparison between synergistic extractants cannot be made with the currently reported factors. This paper provides a guide on clarifying the implications of the conventional synergistic factor, R, for the evaluation of the best extractant combinations. Moreover, a new indicator is proposed, named relative distribution enhancement factor, H, that will quantitatively measure the efficiency of the extraction and compare extraction enhancement among different experimental research.

RESULTS

Four references were selected to illustrate the use of the H factor in contrast with the R factor. The usefulness of the new enhancement factor H was demonstrated by evaluating the synergistic solvent extraction of rare earth elements. It was found that the use of R factors can mislead the selection of extractants ratio, and although synergism exists this does not imply an enhanced extraction.

CONCLUSION

The main finding of this work is that the newly developed H factor can easily detect extraction enhancement or diminishment and is not limited to the evaluation of two extractants. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The effect of reduced graphene oxide addition on methane production from municipal organic solid waste
Authors: Gökçek Öznur B , Muratçobanoğlu Fatma , Muratçobanoğlu Hamdi , Uçar Deniz , Mert Ruhullah A , Yıldırım Bilal , Zan Recep , Demirel Sevgi
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Conductive materials have become the focus of recent studies to accelerate and stabilize the conversion of organic wastes to methane in anaerobic digestion processes. In this study, the effect of the addition of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on biogas/biomethane production from municipal organic solid wastes in anaerobic batch reactors was investigated. In this context, the effect of loading ratios (0, 0.5, 1 and 2 gVS inoculum (gVS nutrient)−1) and rGO addition at different concentrations (0, 10, 20 and 30 mg L−1) was examined during a 45‐day study period.

RESULTS

The highest biogas production reached a level of 816 ± 14 mL (gVS)−1 when substrate/inoculum ratio was 1 and 20 mg L−1 rGO was added (50% more than the group without rGO added). Addition of 30 mg L−1 rGO resulted in 667 ± 12 mL (gVS)−1 corresponding to 23% higher biogas production compared to the control reactor without rGO. The highest cumulative biomethane production was observed to be 525 ± 20 mL (gVS)−1 in the reactor with 20 mg L−1 rGO added in which substrate/inoculum ratio was 1. In the reactors with 10 and 30 mg L−1 and without rGO addition biomethane productions were 448 ± 21, 401 ± 13 and 323 ± 23 mL (gVS)−1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Results revealed that the addition of rGO increased biomethane production from municipal organic solid wastes. It is concluded that rGO addition has the potential to be applied for real‐scale facilities within the scope of renewable energy production and circular economy. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluating disparities in delivery of neoadjuvant guideline‐based chemoradiation for rectal cancer: A multicenter, propensity score‐weighted cohort study
Authors: Lau Lung W. , Kethman William C. , Bingmer Katherine E. , Ofshteyn Asya , Steinhagen Emily , Charles Ronald , Dietz David , Stein Sharon L.
Published: June 2021

Background

Despite guideline recommendations, some patients still receive care inappropriate for their clinical stage of disease. Identification of factors that contribute to variation in guideline base care may help eradicate disparities in the treatment of early and locally advanced rectal cancer.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Cancer Database from 2010 to 2015 was analyzed with propensity score weighting to identify factors associated with delivery and omission of neoadjuvant guideline‐based chemoradiation (GBC) for those with early and locally advanced rectal cancer.

Results

Only 74% of patients with rectal cancer received stage‐appropriate neoadjuvant chemoradiation; 4544 (88%) of those with early stage disease and 8675 (68%) in locally advanced disease. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were not planned in 27% and 34% respectively, of those who did not receive GBC. Factors associated with receipt of non‐guideline‐based neoadjuvant chemoradiation were age >65 years, Medicare insurance, treatment at a community facility, West‐South‐Central geography, having locally advanced disease, and Charlson–Deyo score >3. Receipt of ideal guideline‐based neoadjuvant chemoradiation conferred a survival benefit at 5 years.

Conclusion

Patient and non‐patient factors contribute to disparities in guideline‐based delivery of neoadjuvant chemoradiation in the treatment of rectal cancer. Identification of these risk factors are important to help standardize care and improve survival outcomes
Prognostic value of H‐index in patients surgically treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx
Authors: Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Zanelli Enrico , Giudici Fabiola , Boscolo‐Nata Francesca , Cristalli Giovanni , Deganello Alberto , Tomasoni Michele , Piazza Cesare , Bossi Paolo , Spinato Giacomo , Menegaldo Anna , Emanuelli Enzo , Nicolai Piero , Bandolin Luigia , Ciorba Andrea , Pelucchi Stefano , Lupato Valentina , Giacomarra Vittorio , Molteni Gabriele , Marchioni Daniele , Canzi Pietro , Mauramati Simone , Fortunati Alfonso , Tofanelli Margherita , Borsetto Daniele , Fussey Jonathan , Tirelli Giancarlo
Published: June 2021

Objective

Recently, a novel host‐related index, the Host‐index (H‐index), including both inflammatory and nutritional markers, has been described and observed to stratify prognosis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral cavity more accurately than other host‐related indexes This study aimed to investigate the prognostic performance of the H‐index using pretreatment blood tests in patients receiving up‐front surgery for SCC of the larynx.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included a multicenter series of consecutive patients with SCC of the larynx diagnosed between 1 January 2009 and 31 July 2018, whose pretreatment blood tests were available and included the parameters necessary for the calculation of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the H‐index. Their association with disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) was measured.

Results

A total of 231 patients were eligible for the present analysis (median [range] age, 68 [37‐96] years; 191 [82.7%] men). The median follow‐up was 73 months. In multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models, increasing age (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.07 per year; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.09), advanced pT stage (aHR = 1.71 95% CI: 1.07‐2.71), and having close or positive surgical margins (aHR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.21‐3.33) were significantly associated with poor OS. Among blood parameters, a higher neutrophil count was a strong predictor of both worse DFS (aHR for recurrence/death = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.24‐4.40) and OS (aHR for death = 2.67; 95% CI: 1.51‐4.71). Among inflammatory blood indexes, while NLR was not significantly associated with DFS or OS, patients with H‐index ≥8.37 showed a higher aHR for both recurrence/death (2.82; 95% CI: 1.65‐4.79) and death (2.22; 95% CI: 1.26‐3.89).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present study confirms the prognostic value of pretreatment H‐index, an easily measurable inflammatory and nutritional index, in patients with SCC of the larynx.

Level of Evidence

III
Entropy numbers of diagonal operators on Orlicz sequence spaces
Authors: Kaewtem Thanatkrit , Netrusov Yuri
Published: June 2021

Let M1 and M2 be functions on [0,1] such that and are Orlicz functions for some . Assume that is non‐decreasing for . Let be a non‐increasing sequence of nonnegative real numbers. Under some conditions on , sharp two‐sided estimates for entropy numbers of diagonal operators generated by , where and are Orlicz sequence spaces, are proved. The results generalise some works of Edmunds and Netrusov in [8] and hence a result of Cobos, Kühn and Schonbek in [6].
Temperature and energy dependences of ion–molecule reactions: Studies inspired by Diethard Böhme
Authors: Viggiano Albert A. , Ard Shaun G. , Shuman Nicholas S.
Published: June 2021

Diethard Böhme has had a long career covering many topics in ion‐molecule reactivity. In this review, we describe the work done at the Air Force Research Laboratory (and its variously named preceding organizations) that was inspired by his studies. These fall into two main areas: nucleophilic displacement (SN2) and metal cation chemistry. In SN2 chemistry, we revisited many of the reactions Diethard pioneered and studied them in more detail. We found nonstatistical behavior, both competition and noncompetition between multiple channels. New channels were found as hydration occurred, with more solution‐like behavior occurring as only a few ligands were added. Temperature‐dependent studies revealed details that were not observable at room temperature. These and other highlights will be discussed. In metal cation reactions, Diethard's use of an inductively coupled ion source allowed him to systematically study the periodic table of elements with a number of simple neutrals. We have taken the most interesting of these and studied them in greater detail. In doing so, we were able to identify curve crossing rates, in a few instances information about product states, and the importance of multiple entrance channels.
Design of compact high temperature superconducting dual‐band filter using dual‐composite right‐/left‐handed resonators
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Liu Qing , Zhang Dewei , Yang Hong , Zhang Guangwei
Published: June 2021

A compact high temperature superconducting dual‐band band‐pass filter (BPF) is presented based on compact dual‐mode dual‐composite right‐/left‐handed (D‐CRLH) resonators in this article, which is composed of spiral coupled lines and meander lines. In addition, the equivalent circuit model and the admittance matrix are given to analyze the resonant characteristics of the designed D‐CRLH resonator. Then, the proposed filter realizes the flexible controllability of the center frequencies and coupling coefficient of the two passbands, which greatly increases the design freedom of dual‐band BPFs. Finally, the proposed filter was designed and etched on a 0.5‐mm‐thick MgO substrate with double‐sided YBCO thin‐films for demonstration. The measured results match the simulated ones well, indicating the feasibility of the proposed design method.
Regulatory and legislative issues on telehealth
Authors: Schofield Marsha
Published: June 2021

The use of telehealth to deliver health care services in the United States experienced rapid expansion with the advent of the COVID‐19 public health emergency (PHE) and associated waivers. Prior to the pandemic, adoption of telehealth by health care providers was hampered by outdated legislative and regulatory barriers at the federal and state levels. This paper provides a review of the legislative and regulatory landscape for telehealth in the United States and how it has changed during the COVID‐10 PHE. It remains to be seen whether the temporary flexibilities surrounding delivery and payment of telehealth services will remain in place; some require Congressional action to make permanent while others can be made permanent through rulemaking. Other actions are dependent on state legislatures and commercial payers. Issues under debate by stakeholders include long‐term audio‐only coverage; broadband connectivity; disparities in access to telehealth; appropriate payment for telehealth versus in‐person care; concerns about fraud, quality, and safety; and the need for additional data to inform future policymaking. Insights are provided into these key issues that are expected to shape future legislative and regulatory action at the federal and state levels. Health care providers and patients need to engage in advocacy work at the federal and state level, and with commercial payers, to affect meaningful long‐term change.
Six‐year changes in N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide and changes in weight and risk of obesity
Authors: Sbaraini da Silva Mariana , Lazo Mariana , Daya Natalie R. , Tang Olive , Schaan Beatriz D. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Ndumele Chiadi , Selvin Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to study the prospective association between N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and changes in weight and obesity risk in a community‐based population.

Methods

Data from 9,681 participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study were analyzed at two time points 6 years apart. Among people without obesity at baseline, multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association between baseline levels of NT‐proBNP and incident obesity. A multivariable linear regression model was used to examine the association between changes in NT‐proBNP (visit 2 serum and visit 4 plasma samples) and changes in weight.

Results

The prevalence of obesity increased from 28% to 35% in the 6‐year follow‐up period. Compared with individuals in the highest NT‐proBNP quartile, those in the lowest were more likely to have obesity at baseline (odds ratio 1.25; 95% CI: 1.08‐1.45) and, among people who did not have obesity at baseline, were more likely to develop obesity at follow‐up (odds ratio 1.35; 95% CI: 1.07‐1.69). Changes in NT‐proBNP were inversely associated with weight change.

Conclusions

In this prospective study, lower levels of NT‐proBNP were associated with higher risk of obesity, and changes in NT‐proBNP were inversely associated with changes in weight. This suggests that natriuretic peptides or their pathways may be potential targets in the treatment of obesity.
Social impairment and personality disorder features among older adults: An application of the circumplex model
Authors: Stone Lisa E. , Segal Daniel L.
Published: June 2021

The interpersonal circumplex is a model that places interpersonal problems along two axes (communion and agency), resulting in eight theoretically derived patterns. Application of the circumplex to older adults is poorly understood. Subsequently, this study examined relationships between the interpersonal circumplex and personality disorder (PD) features among older adults, since social impairments are core components of PDs. Two models of PDs were examined: the traditional model of 10 PDs and the Alternative Model of PDs (AMPD) with its personality functioning and pathological personality trait features. Older adults (N = 202) completed the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems‐Short Circumplex, Coolidge Axis II Inventory, Levels of Personality Functioning Scale‐Self‐Report, and Personality Inventory for DSM‐5. Overlap between the interpersonal circumplex and PD features were detected, but patterns were distinct from prior studies with younger samples. Cluster B and C PD features showed meaningful relationships, whereas Cluster A did not. The circumplex was limited in its relation to the AMPD's personality functioning. The communion component of the circumplex significantly related to the AMPD's pathological trait model, whereas the agency component was limited in its association with pathological traits. Overall, the circumplex meaningfully related to PD features across two different PD models, providing some evidence of validity.
Validity and reliability of the Thai version of the pediatric obstructive sleep apnea screening tool
Authors: Tanphaichitr Archwin , Chuenchod Pitchayanan , Ungkanont Kitirat , Banhiran Wish , Vathanophas Vannipa , Gozal David
Published: June 2021

Objective

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent in children and requires an expensive and relatively unavailable sleep study for diagnosis. This study was undertaken to translate the previously validated pediatric OSA screening tool (POSAST) to the Thai language and assess its accuracy and test–retest reliability in at‐risk symptomatic children.

Study Design

Prospective cross‐sectional cohort study.

Methods

Pediatric patients clinically referred for suspected OSA who underwent overnight polysomnography (PSG) were recruited, and caregivers completed the Thai version of the POSAST. The same questionnaire was completed again after 2–4 weeks. The reliability of the questionnaire was determined by internal consistency and test–retest reliability. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed by constructing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to identify the equation‐derived score and total additive score cutoff points that identify high risk for moderate and severe OSA (AHI of ≥ 5 events/h).

Results

One hundred and ten subjects completed the study. The mean age was 8.4 ± 2.9 years. The mean apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was 10.9 ± 11.9 events/h. Test–retest reliability (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.96, p < .001) and internal consistency between each question (Cronbach's alpha coefficient = 0.82, p < .001) were excellent. An equation‐derived score cut‐off of 1.9 yielded 78.4% sensitivity, 50.0% specificity, 76.3% positive predictive value (PPV), and 52.9% negative predictive value (NPV), while a total additive score cut‐off of 8 corresponded to 81.1% sensitivity, 52.8% specificity, 77.9% PPV, and 57.6% NPV for diagnosing moderate and severe OSA (AHI ≥ 5 events/h).

Conclusion

The internal consistency and reproducibility of the Thai version of the POSAST are satisfactory, display acceptable validity, and the instrument can be used for screening symptomatic Thai children for OSA.
Electrically Active Defects Induced by α‐Particle Irradiation in p‐Type Si Surface Barrier Detector
Authors: Bakhlanov Sergey , Bazlov Nikolay , Chernobrovkin Ilia , Danilov Denis , Derbin Alexander , Drachnev Ilia , Kotina Irina , Konkov Oleg , Kuzmichev Artem , Mikulich Maksim , Muratova Valentina , Trushin Maxim , Unzhakov Evgeniy
Published: June 2021

Herein, the investigation of radiation‐induced defects generated in the Al/SiO2/p‐type FZ Si surface barrier detector upon irradiation with α‐particles at room temperature using capacitance−voltage (C−V) and current deep‐level transient spectroscopy (IDLTS) methods is conducted. The carried out C−V measurements indicate the formation of at least 8 × 1012 cm−3 radiation‐induced acceptor traps at the depth fairly close to that where, according to TRIM simulations, the highest concentration of vacancy‐interstitial pairs is created by the incoming α‐particles. The studies conducted by the current DLTS technique allow to relate the observed increase in the acceptor concentration with the near‐midgap level at E
V + 0.56 eV. This level can apparently be associated with V2O defects recognized previously to be responsible for the space−charge sign inversion in the irradiated n‐type Si detectors.
Cr7Ge33Te60/Hf16Ge6Sb78 Superlattice‐Like Thin Film with Triple‐Phase Transitions for Multilevel Phase‐Change Memory
Authors: Hua Sicong , Xu Zhehao , Su Xiao , Zhai Jiwei , Song Sannian , Song Zhitang
Published: June 2021

A multilevel phase‐change memory cell that is based on a CrGeTe(CrGT)/HfGeSb(HfGS) superlattice‐like (SLL) structure is proposed. With increasing temperature in resistance–temperature tests, the SLL thin films exhibit a three‐step phase‐change process that corresponds to the crystallization of Sb, GeTe, and CrGeTe. A stable and reversible three‐step phase change is identified as the key characteristic for realizing multilevel storage. This so‐designed multiple‐crystallization SLL structure is a feasible way to increase the storage density.
Monolayer‐Thick GaN/AlN Multilayer Heterostructures for Deep‐Ultraviolet Optoelectronics
Authors: Jmerik Valentin , Toropov Alexey , Davydov Valery , Ivanov Sergey
Published: June 2021

Recent progress in the development of monolayer (ML)‐thick GaN/AlN multilayer heterostructures for deep‐ultraviolet (UV) optoelectronics is reviewed. Analysis of both plasma‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy and metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy shows that extreme interface sharpness and sub‐ML accuracy in setting the layer thickness are attractive features of the former, whereas the lowest density of threading dislocations and wide possibilities for the implementation of various 2D growth mechanisms are the advantages of the latter. The structural properties of ML GaN/AlN heterostructures are evaluated not only by standard X‐ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy, but also by Raman spectroscopy. Theoretical and experimental studies of the optical properties of ML‐thick GaN/AlN quantum wells (QWs) reveal that quenching of the quantum‐confined Stark effect, suppression of transverse electric transverse magnetic polarization switching, as well as the excitonic nature of UV‐radiative recombination in ultrathin (1–2 ML) QWs ensure in such structures a high internal quantum yield of 75% for UV radiation at 235 nm at room temperature. The possibilities of using ML‐GaN/AlN heterostructures to fabricate UVC emitters of spontaneous and stimulated emissions in a wide range of output powers with various pumping techniques are considered, and the most important problems are formulated.
Selectivity of TiOx‐Based Electron‐Selective Contacts on n‐Type Crystalline Silicon and Solar Cell Efficiency Potential
Authors: Titova Valeriya , Schmidt Jan
Published: June 2021

The selectivity parameter S
10 of titanium oxide (TiO
x
)‐based selective contacts on n‐type silicon is experimentally extracted through measurements of the specific contact resistivity ρ
c and the recombination current density prefactor J
0, both parameters measured on fully Al‐metallized samples. The contact resistivity ρ
c is determined applying the Cox and Strack method and the J
0 values are extracted using dynamic infrared lifetime mapping, allowing for contactless lifetime measurements on fully metallized silicon samples in contrast to conventionally applied lifetime measurement techniques. The highest selectivity after annealing of an n‐Si/SiO
y
/TiO
x
/Al contact is determined to be S
10 = 11.6, which corresponds to a maximum achievable efficiency of 24.1% for this type of electron‐selective contact. The maximum selectivity is achieved after low‐temperature annealing at 500 °C or through a contact‐firing step at a set‐peak temperature of 820 °C in an industrial conveyor‐belt furnace, as used in today's commercial solar cell production.
Recent Advances in Electrocatalysts for Alkaline Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Zhao Ruopeng , Yue Xin , Li Qinghua , Fu Gengtao , Lee Jong‐Min , Huang Shaoming
Published: June 2021

With the rapid development of anion‐exchange membrane technology and adequate supply of high‐performance non‐noble metal oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts in alkaline media, the commercialization of anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) become possible. However, the kinetics of the anodic hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) in AEMFCs is significantly decreased compared to the HOR in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Therefore, it is urgent to develop HOR catalysts with low price, high activity, and robust stability. However, comprehensive timely reviews on this specific subject do not exist enough yet and it is necessary to update reported major achievements and to point out future investigation directions. In this review, the current reaction mechanisms on HOR are summarized and deeply understood. The debates between the mechanisms are greatly harmonized. Recent advances in developing highly active and stable electrocatalysts for the HOR are reviewed. Moreover, the side reaction control is for the first time systematically introduced. Finally, the challenges and future opportunities in the field of HOR catalysis are outlined.
Organic Photovoltaics: Where Are We Headed?
Authors: van der Staaij Floris Max , van Keulen Isabelle Masala , von Hauff Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

Organic photovoltaics (OPV) is an emerging technology that combines semi‐transparency and flexibility in lightweight, ultrathin solar modules. The record power conversion efficiencies for OPV are approaching 20%, with reported lifetimes ranging from months to several years. Despite these attributes, OPV has not yet been commercialized on a large scale. Here, we critically examine the commercial potential of OPV. We begin by surveying feasibility studies in the literature to identify threshold values for performance that would enable OPV to be commercially competitive with conventional electricity production. We discuss how these parameters alone are not sufficient to predict the success of a photovoltaic technology, as there is still significant discrepancy between performance in the laboratory and in the field. Even if this gap can be closed, it is unlikely that OPV will ever compete in the conventional electricity market. Instead, the unique properties may make OPV an interesting candidate for niche applications with less rigid demands on performance, but stricter requirements on aesthetics, flexibility, weight, and transparency. In this case, application‐specific requirements on efficiency and stability must first be established. Ultimately, even the most optimistic scenarios for OPV identify poor stability as the biggest challenge for general market entry.
Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of the 5Cr13 Martensite Stainless Steel Refined by Oxide Particles
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Sun Zhonghua , Zhang Xin , Feng Jianhang , He Jun , Peng Huifen
Published: June 2021

Herein, Al2O3 and TiO2 particles are introduced into the 5Cr13 high‐carbon martensite stainless steel, aiming to improve its mechanical properties and cold‐deformation ability. The results prove that the introduced oxide particles lead to enlarged equiaxed zone of the ingot, together with refinement in its columnar and equiaxed dendrites. They exist in the form of fine nanoparticles and serve as crucial heterogeneous nuclei to refine the austenite grains and martensitic microstructures of the steel. Then the oxide‐added 5Cr13 steel exhibits higher hardness and better temper resistance, as well as good impact toughness. Accordingly, the use of the present master alloy provides a great convenience for the mass production of high‐performance steels in the future.
Effect of Bonding Area Formation During Sintering on the Reaction Characteristics of Iron Ores
Authors: Park Tae Jun , Kim Byong Chul , Sohn Il
Published: June 2021

This study aims to understand the effect of sintering at 1623 K on the reaction characteristics of iron ores. By investigating the reaction characteristics of nine different iron ores with disparate properties, new reactivity indices including the iron ore reactivity index (IRI) and iron ore blending reactivity index (IBRI) independent of the sample size are derived based on the melt penetration depth of preformed cubicalironore tablets. Furthermore, the effect of sintering on the reactivity of iron ore is also identified. Using a rapid heating/cooling infrared furnace equipment, duplicate iron ore reaction tests are conducted to increase the reproducibility of the results. The case of a high IBRI in the sintering process increases the product yield and average particle size of the sinter. When the IBRI increases by 0.1, the product yield increases by 0.4% and the average size of the sintered ore increases by 0.1 mm. The results show that the degree of reaction between iron ore and additives can be estimated during the iron ore blending step and be easily applied in managing commercial‐scale sinter production and quality.
Extending traditional water supplies in inland communities with nontraditional solutions to water scarcity
Authors: Scruggs Caroline E. , Heyne Catherine M.
Published: June 2021

Urban communities around the world are grappling with the challenges associated with population increases, drought, and projected water shortages. With a substantial global shortfall between water supply and demand expected by 2030, water planning strategies must adapt to a new reality characterized by higher temperatures and less precipitation, requiring new ways of thinking about water management, use, and governance. Commonplace strategies such as water conservation and nonpotable water reuse might not be sufficient to adequately stretch water supplies in water‐scarce parts of the industrialized world. In the United States, planned potable water reuse (i.e., purification of domestic wastewater for reuse as drinking water) is emerging as a way forward to mitigate water shortages without significant changes to lifestyle, behavior, or infrastructure. But potable reuse is not the only solution: paradigm shifting and disruptive options that more holistically address water scarcity, such as composting toilets and market‐based approaches to water use, are also gaining traction, and they could be pursued alongside or instead of potable water reuse. However, these options would require more significant changes to lifestyles, behavior, infrastructure, and governance. While all of the options considered offer advantages, they each come with new concerns and challenges related to cost, public perception, social norms, and policy. The goal of this work is to consider a number of plausible solutions to water scarcity—partial and complete, traditional and disruptive—to stimulate forward‐looking thinking about the increasingly common global problem of water scarcity.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Engineering Water > Planning Water
Robust approach to thermal resummation: Standard Model meets a singlet
Authors: Schicho Philipp M. , Tenkanen Tuomas V. I. , Österman Juuso
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Perturbation theory alone fails to describe thermodynamics of the electroweak phase transition. We review a technique combining perturbative and non-perturbative methods to overcome this challenge. Accordingly, the principal theme is a tutorial of high­temperature dimensional reduction. We present an explicit derivation with a real singlet scalar and compute the thermal effective potential at two-loop order. In particular, we detail the dimensional reduction for a real-singlet extended Standard Model. The resulting effective theory will impact future non-perturbative studies based on lattice simulations as well as purely perturbative investigations.
Retinal arteriolar tortuosity and fractal dimension are associated with long-term cardiovascular outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sandoval-Garcia Emmanuel , McLachlan Stela , Price Anna H. , MacGillivray Thomas J. , Strachan Mark W. J. , Wilson James F. , Price Jackie F.
Published: June 2021

Aims/hypothesis

Our aim was to determine whether quantitative retinal traits in people with type 2 diabetes are independently associated with incident major cardiovascular events including CHD and stroke.

Methods

A total of 1066 men and women with type 2 diabetes, aged 65–74 years, were followed up over 8 years in the population-based Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study. Using retinal photographs taken at baseline and specialist software, a number of quantitative retinal traits were measured, including arteriolar and venular widths and tortuosity as well as fractal dimension (a measure of the branching pattern complexity of the retinal vasculature network). Incident CHD events occurring during follow-up included fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction, first episodes of angina and coronary interventions for CHD. Incident cerebrovascular events included fatal and non-fatal stroke or transient ischaemic attack. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed to identify the association of the retinal traits with cardiovascular events in the population with retinal data available (n = 1028).

Results

A total of 200 participants had an incident cardiovascular event (139 CHD and 61 cerebrovascular events). Following adjustment for age and sex, arteriolar tortuosity and fractal dimension were associated with cerebrovascular events (HR 1.27 [95% CI 1.02, 1.58] and HR 0.74 [95% CI 0.57, 0.95], respectively), including with stroke alone (HR 1.30 [95% CI 1.01, 1.66] and HR 0.73 [95% CI 0.56, 0.97], respectively). These associations persisted after further adjustment for established cardiovascular risk factors (HR 1.26 [95% CI 1.01, 1.58] and HR 0.73 [95% CI 0.56, 0.94], respectively). Associations generally reduced in strength after a final adjustment for the presence of diabetic retinopathy, but the association of fractal dimension with incident cerebrovascular events and stroke retained statistical significance (HR 0.73 [95% CI 0.57, 0.95] and HR 0.72 [95% CI 0.54, 0.97], respectively). Associations of retinal traits with CHD were generally weak and showed no evidence of statistical significance.

Conclusions/interpretation

Arteriolar tortuosity and fractal dimension were associated with incident cerebrovascular events, independent of a wide range of traditional cardiovascular risk factors including diabetic retinopathy. These findings suggest potential for measurements of early retinal vasculature change to aid in the identification of people with type 2 diabetes who are at increased risk from stroke.

Graphical abstract
Peronealsehnenpathologien
Authors: Willegger Madeleine , Hirtler Lena , Schwarz Gilbert M. , Windhager Rein﻿hard , Chiari Catharina
Published: June 2021

Peronealsehnenpathologien sind selten, jedoch häufig unterdiagnostiziert. Eine Assoziation mit einer chronisch lateralen Sprunggelenkinstabilität sowie mit einer varischen Rückfußachse kann bestehen. Pathologien der Sehnen lassen sich in 3 Kategorien einteilen: Tendinitis und Tenosynovitis, Sehnenrisse und Rupturen sowie Sehnensubluxation und Sehnenluxation. Die Magnetresonanztomographie ist die Standardmethode zur radiologischen Beurteilung. Die Diagnose und Behandlung basieren jedoch in erster Linie auf Anamnese und klinischer Untersuchung. Eine primär konservative Therapie kann versucht werden, ausgenommen bei Peronealsehnenluxationen des professionellen Sportlers. Die chirurgische Therapie sollte gezielt auf die zugrunde liegende Pathologie abgestimmt werden und kann dementsprechend divers von der tendoskopischen Synovektomie bis zur anatomischen Reparatur des superioren peronealen Retinakulums mit Vertiefung der retromalleolären Rinne ausfallen. Die postoperativen Ergebnisse zeigen eine hohe Patientenzufriedenheit und niedrige Reluxationsraten.
The Hilbert scheme of a pair of linear spaces
Authors: Ramkumar Ritvik
Published: June 2021

Let $$\mathcal {H}_{a,b}^n$$

H

a
,
b

n

denote the component of the Hilbert scheme whose general point parameterizes an a-plane union a b-plane meeting transversely in $${\mathbf {P}}^n$$

P

n

. We show that $$\mathcal {H}_{a,b}^n$$

H

a
,
b

n

is smooth and isomorphic to successive blow ups of $$\mathbf {Gr}(a,n) \times \mathbf {Gr}(b,n)$$

Gr
(
a
,
n
)
×
Gr
(
b
,
n
)

or $$\text {Sym}^2 \mathbf {Gr}(a,n)$$

Sym
2

Gr

(
a
,
n
)

along certain incidence correspondences. We classify the subschemes parameterized by $$\mathcal {H}_{a,b}^n$$

H

a
,
b

n

and show that this component has a unique Borel fixed point. We also study the birational geometry of this component. In particular, we describe the effective and nef cones of $$\mathcal {H}_{a,b}^n$$

H

a
,
b

n

and determine when the component is Fano. Moreover, we show that $$\mathcal {H}_{a,b}^n$$

H

a
,
b

n

is a Mori dream space for all values of a, b, n.
The contemporary model of vertebral column joint dysfunction and impact of high-velocity, low-amplitude controlled vertebral thrusts on neuromuscular function
Authors: Haavik Heidi , Kumari Nitika , Holt Kelly , Niazi Imran Khan , Amjad Imran , Pujari Amit N. , Türker Kemal Sitki , Murphy Bernadette
Published: June 2021

Purpose

There is growing evidence that vertebral column function and dysfunction play a vital role in neuromuscular control. This invited review summarises the evidence about how vertebral column dysfunction, known as a central segmental motor control (CSMC) problem, alters neuromuscular function and how spinal adjustments (high-velocity, low-amplitude or HVLA thrusts directed at a CSMC problem) and spinal manipulation (HVLA thrusts directed at segments of the vertebral column that may not have clinical indicators of a CSMC problem) alters neuromuscular function.

Methods

The current review elucidates the peripheral mechanisms by which CSMC problems, the spinal adjustment or spinal manipulation alter the afferent input from the paravertebral tissues. It summarises the contemporary model that provides a biologically plausible explanation for CSMC problems, the manipulable spinal lesion. This review also summarises the contemporary, biologically plausible understanding about how spinal adjustments enable more efficient production of muscular force. The evidence showing how spinal dysfunction, spinal manipulation and spinal adjustments alter central multimodal integration and motor control centres will be covered in a second invited review.

Results

Many studies have shown spinal adjustments increase voluntary force and prevent fatigue, which mainly occurs due to altered supraspinal excitability and multimodal integration. The literature suggests physical injury, pain, inflammation, and acute or chronic physiological or psychological stress can alter the vertebral column’s central neural motor control, leading to a CSMC problem. The many gaps in the literature have been identified, along with suggestions for future studies.

Conclusion

Spinal adjustments of CSMC problems impact motor control in a variety of ways. These include increasing muscle force and preventing fatigue. These changes in neuromuscular function most likely occur due to changes in supraspinal excitability. The current contemporary model of the CSMC problem, and our understanding of the mechanisms of spinal adjustments, provide a biologically plausible explanation for how the vertebral column’s central neural motor control can dysfunction, can lead to a self-perpetuating central segmental motor control problem, and how HVLA spinal adjustments can improve neuromuscular function.
Dynamical systems as a level of cognitive analysis of multi-agent learning
Authors: Barfuss Wolfram
Published: June 2021

A dynamical systems perspective on multi-agent learning, based on the link between evolutionary game theory and reinforcement learning, provides an improved, qualitative understanding of the emerging collective learning dynamics. However, confusion exists with respect to how this dynamical systems account of multi-agent learning should be interpreted. In this article, I propose to embed the dynamical systems description of multi-agent learning into different abstraction levels of cognitive analysis. The purpose of this work is to make the connections between these levels explicit in order to gain improved insight into multi-agent learning. I demonstrate the usefulness of this framework with the general and widespread class of temporal-difference reinforcement learning. I find that its deterministic dynamical systems description follows a minimum free-energy principle and unifies a boundedly rational account of game theory with decision-making under uncertainty. I then propose an on-line sample-batch temporal-difference algorithm which is characterized by the combination of applying a memory-batch and separated state-action value estimation. I find that this algorithm serves as a micro-foundation of the deterministic learning equations by showing that its learning trajectories approach the ones of the deterministic learning equations under large batch sizes. Ultimately, this framework of embedding a dynamical systems description into different abstraction levels gives guidance on how to unleash the full potential of the dynamical systems approach to multi-agent learning.
Klimaanpassung von Logistikstandorten – eine Szenarienanalyse
Authors: Bücken Felix , Kanning Helga
Published: June 2021

Für die Entwicklung von Klimaanpassungsstrategien sind Logistikstandorte aus zwei Perspektiven bedeutsam: Einerseits sind Logistikunternehmen selbst aufgrund ihrer großen Liegenschaften und des hohen Versiegelungsgrads besonders von den Folgen des Klimawandels betroffen, andererseits erhöhen sie durch ihre umfassenden Flächenversiegelungen die Vulnerabilität der Kommunen, in denen sie angesiedelt sind. Sowohl Logistikunternehmen als auch Kommunen sind daher gefragt, klimaangepasste Gewerbeflächen zu entwickeln. Mithilfe einer kritisch reflektierten Szenarienanalyse zeigt dieser Beitrag verschiedene Positionen beteiligter Akteure (Logistikunternehmen, Kommunen, Intermediäre) auf und identifiziert Hemmnisse sowie Konfliktfelder zur Anpassung an Klimafolgen. Dazu werden 3 Szenarien vorgestellt, die verschiedene Gestaltungs- und Entwicklungsperspektiven der Anpassung und Flächennutzung illustrieren. Aus der Diskussion der Szenarien im Rahmen von 3 Workshops lassen sich 4 zentrale Handlungsfelder ableiten, die für die Anpassung von Logistikstandorten besonders bedeutsam sind: Interkommunale Zusammenarbeit, intrakommunale Herausforderungen, wie z. B. mangelnde personelle Ressourcen in den Verwaltungen, mehr Zukunftsorientierung der Logistik sowie Sensibilisierung und Kommunikation. Dabei wird die Verantwortung für die Umsetzung geeigneter Maßnahmen in Kooperation durch Unternehmen, Kommunen und Intermediäre gesehen.
Universalisierung und Entpolitisierung von Klimawandelanpassung?
Authors: Bruns Antje , Fünfgeld Hartmut
Published: June 2021

In dem Maße, wie sich Klimawandelanpassung als Handlungsfeld von Kommunen, regionalen Gebietskörperschaften sowie Beratungs- und Planungsbüros verstetigt, findet eine zunehmende Standardisierung und Universalisierung von Konzepten, Ansätzen und Methoden statt. Diese Vereinheitlichung trägt zur Wissensintegration und -diffusion sowie zu einer weiteren Professionalisierung des Handlungsfeldes bei und bietet dadurch vermeintliche und tatsächliche Vorteile, z. B. bezüglich der Erprobung und Übertragbarkeit von Good Practices und im Bereich der Weiterbildung und des Kapazitätsaufbaus. Gleichzeitig birgt die Abkehr von einer prinzipiellen Vielfalt auf der Wissens- und der Handlungsebene auch Problematiken. Eine Orientierung an technologischen Innovationen, die möglicherweise zu neu entstehende Pfadabhängigkeiten führen und zugleich die Lern- und Veränderungsfähigkeit untergraben und den Blick auf notwendige Wertediskurse verstellen, können die Folge sein. In der Praxis wird Klimawandelanpassung häufig auf das Mach- und Umsetzbare reduziert, ohne z. B. Gerechtigkeitsfragen zu stellen. Vor dem Hintergrund dieser Beobachtungen beleuchten wir das Verhältnis von Wissensproduktion und Anpassungspraxis schlaglichtartig aus Perspektive einer kritischen Angewandten Geographie: (1) Epistemologien und Methoden sowie (2) theoretisch-konzeptuelle Ansätze (in) der Anpassungsforschung (3) eine deutliche Orientierung an Erfolgsgeschichten und (4) Prozesse der Wissensproduktion für eine konsensorientierte Politik der Klimaanpassung. Der Artikel möchte so einen Beitrag zur Auseinandersetzung mit aktuellen wissensbasierten Praktiken im Kontext des Handlungsfeldes Klimawandelanpassung leisten.