bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical response of tensegrity dissipative devices incorporating shape memory alloys
Authors: Singh N , Amendola A , Santos F , Benzoni G , Fraternali F
Published: December 2020

To optimize the seismic performance prescribed by modern structural codes, buildings and infrastructures must provide adequate safety for design level earthquake excitations, with limited levels of damage. This paper deals with the computational modelling of a bracing system with tensegrity architecture, which operates as a lightweight mechanical amplifier of longitudinal displacements in the transverse direction, efficiently limiting the interstory drifts while dissipating energy. The proposed brace is based on a D-bar tensegrity structure with a rhomboidal shape comprising Shape-Memory Alloy (SMA) tendons. The SMA tendons can develop austenitic-martensitic (solid to solid) transformations, which enable them to amplify the signals into wide super elastic hysteresis, while subjected to mechanical cycles, comprising strains up to 6÷8%, with no residual deformations. The enhanced energy dissipation of the proposed SMA-D-bar (SMAD) braces are demonstrated through computational simulations of the response of braced frame to real earthquake events. The efficiency of the intended bracing to minimize the seismic impact of the served structure lays the foundation for the development of novel seismic energy dissipation systems integrating principles of tensegrity with superelasticity.
Cyclic Behavior of CFRP as Diagonal Ties and Anchors to Rehabilitate Severe Damaged Masonry Wall
Authors: Huaco G , Jirsa J
Published: December 2020

Seismic rehabilitation using Carbon Fiber Reinforcement Polymer CFRP is more often used worldwide. CFRP jacketing is the most common layout for columns and walls, however installing the CFRP sheet as diagonal ties increase shear capacity to walls instead of jacketing procedures, besides less CFRP materials is used reducing the cost to the retrofit work. It is know that CFRP sheets can be debonded from the concrete or masonry surface causing that the sheets will not develop its tensile capacity. Then CFRP anchors are introduced. It is presented the behavior of CFRP sheets as diagonal ties working even though sliding and CFRP anchors which attach the diagonal ties to concrete base and top of the masonry wall. The diagonal ties work at full tensile capacity even though the debonding and buckling presented under compression forces. CFRP anchors also provided a resistance capacity against sliding.
The VCBS superfamily forms a third supercluster of β-propellers that includes tachylectin and integrins
Authors: Pereira Joana , Lupas Andrei N
Published: December 2020

Motivation

β-Propellers are found in great variety across all kingdoms of life. They assume many cellular roles, primarily as scaffolds for macromolecular interactions and catalysis. Despite their diversity, most β-propeller families clearly originated by amplification from the same ancient peptide—the ‘blade’. In cluster analyses, β-propellers of the WD40 superfamily always formed the largest group, to which some important families, such as the α-integrin, Asp-box and glycoside hydrolase β-propellers connected weakly. Motivated by the dramatic growth of sequence databases we revisited these connections, with a special focus on VCBS-like β-propellers, which have not been analysed for their evolutionary relationships so far.

Results

We found that VCBS-like form a supercluster with integrin-like β-propellers and tachylectins, clearly delimited from the superclusters formed by WD40 and Asp-Box β-propellers. Connections between the three superclusters are made mainly through PQQ-like β-propeller. Our results present a new, greatly expanded view of the β-propeller classification landscape.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Effects of Korean Pine Basal Area in Mixed Broadleaved–Korean Pine Forest Stands on Its Natural Regeneration in Northeast China
Authors: Ge Xiaowen , Zhu Jiaojun , Lu Deliang , Zhu Chunyu , Gao Pingzhen , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: December 2020

Understanding the natural regeneration of Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc.) in mixed broadleaved–Korean pine (MBK) forests is crucial for MBK forest conservation and secondary deciduous broadleaved forest restoration. We hypothesized the ratio of Korean pine basal area (RKp) in MBK stands affected its natural regeneration. Regeneration censuses, including the height, root collar diameter, age, and growth stages (younger seedling, older seedling, smaller sapling, and taller sapling) of Korean pine, were conducted in northeast China. Results indicated the stem density and age composition of younger seedlings were positively correlated with RKp, whereas those of the saplings were negatively correlated with RKp. In the stands with lower RKp (<80% in Lesser Khingan Mountains [LKM]; <40% in Lushuihe Forestry Bureau [LFB]), individuals in all growth stages regenerated well with an age span of 65 yr. However, the regeneration of taller saplings was severely inhibited with increasing RKp (LKM: RKp ≥ 80%; LFB: RKp ≥ 40%). In summary, RKp significantly affected the natural regeneration of Korean pine in MBK forests. The basal-area thresholds limiting regeneration were found to be 80% in LKM stands and 40% in LFB stands. These basal-area thresholds provided evidence of why the zonal climax was MBK forests rather than pure Korean pine forests.
Safety and Immunogenicity of a New Inactivated Polio Vaccine Made From Sabin Strains: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Active-Controlled, Phase 2/3 Seamless Study
Authors: Capeding Maria Rosario , Gomez-Go Grace Devota , Oberdorfer Peninnah , Borja-Tabora Charissa , Bravo Lulu , Carlos Josefina , Tangsathapornpong Auchara , Uppala Rattapon , Laoprasopwattana Kamolwish , Yang Yunjeong , Han Song , Wittawatmongkol Orasri
Published: December 2020

Background

A new inactivated polio vaccine made from Sabin strains (sIPV) was developed as part of the global polio eradication initiative.

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, phase 2/3 seamless study was conducted in 2 stages. Healthy infants aged 6 weeks were randomly assigned to receive 3 doses of 1 of 4 study vaccines at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age (336 received low-, middle-, or high-dose sIPV, or conventional IPV [cIPV] in stage I, and 1086 received lot A, B, or C of the selected sIPV dose, or cIPV in stage II). The primary outcome was the seroconversion rate 4 weeks after the third vaccination.

Results

In stage I, low-dose sIPV was selected as the optimal dose. In stage II, consistency among the 3 manufacturing lots of sIPV was demonstrated. The seroconversion rates for Sabin and wild strains of the 3 serotypes after the 3-dose primary series were 95.8% to 99.2% in the lot-combined sIPV group and 94.8% to 100% in the cIPV group, proving the noninferiority of sIPV compared to cIPV. No notable safety risks associated with sIPV were observed.

Conclusions

Low-dose sIPV administered as a 3-dose vaccination was safe and immunogenic compared to cIPV.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03169725.
Fostamatinib Inhibits Neutrophils Extracellular Traps Induced by COVID-19 Patient Plasma: A Potential Therapeutic
Authors: Strich Jeffrey R , Ramos-Benitez Marcos J , Randazzo Davide , Stein Sydney R , Babyak Ashley , Davey Richard T , Suffredini Anthony F , Childs Richard W , Chertow Daniel S
Published: December 2020

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) contribute to immunothrombosis and have been associated with mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We stimulated donor neutrophils with plasma from patients with COVID-19 and demonstrated that R406 can abrogate the release of NETs. These data provide evidence for how fostamatinib may mitigate neutrophil-associated mechanisms contributing to COVID-19 immunopathogenesis.
Big Problems With Little House Fly (Diptera: Fanniidae)
Authors: Murillo Amy C , Hubbard Caleb B , Hinkle Nancy C , Gerry Alec C
Published: December 2020

The little house fly, Fannia canicularis (L.) (Diptera: Fanniidae), is a significant pest associated with livestock and animal systems worldwide. This species commonly develops in poultry production systems. The males of this species are a nuisance to people because they form mating swarms in enclosed spaces. The pest status of F. canicularis has not lessened since it was identified as a critical arthropod pest of veterinary importance over 50 yr ago. During this period, there has been little research progress to control this pest, especially when compared with other filth fly species. This article reviews the biology, distribution, pest status (including nuisance and pathogen transmission risk), monitoring, and control techniques, and identifies knowledge gaps for F. canicularis.
The Effect of Deployment on Pulmonary Function in Military Personnel With Asthma
Authors: Woods Jeffrey T , Walter Robert J , Houle Mateo C , Barber Brian S , Morris Michael J
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Military personnel with a diagnosis of asthma report increased respiratory symptoms in the deployment and post-deployment periods. The long-term effect of deployment on pulmonary function in this population is unknown. This study sought to determine the effect of deployment on post-deployment pulmonary function in active duty military personnel with asthma.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective chart review of active duty military personnel with deployment to southwest Asia and an ICD-9 diagnosis of asthma with documented pre- and post-deployment spirometry was performed.

Results

A total of 642 active duty individuals with a diagnosis of asthma and documented spirometry with deployment to southwest Asia between 2006 and 2015 were identified. Of these, 76 individuals were identified with pre- and post-deployment spirometry. There was no significant change in the post-deployment forced expiratory volume at 1 second (% predicted), from 86.0 ± 14.8 to 87.6 ± 14.4 (P = .30). There was no significant change in post-deployment forced vital capacity (% predicted), from 93.8 ± 12.4 to 94.9 ± 12.1 (P = .42). The absolute change in forced expiratory volume at 1 second (L) after bronchodilator administration was decreased from pre-deployment to post-deployment (+0.31 ± 0.26 to +0.16 ± 0.23; P = .02).

Conclusions

There was no significant post-deployment change in spirometry in this military population with asthma deployed to southwest Asia. These findings suggest that deployment itself is not associated with any short-term deleterious effect on post-deployment spirometric measures of lung function in many military personnel with asthma.
New temperature and metallicity scale of cool giants from K-band spectra
Authors: Ghosh Supriyo , Ojha D K , Ninan J P
Published: December 2020

We present here quantitative diagnostic tools for cool giants that employ low-resolution near-infrared spectroscopy in the K band for stellar population studies. In this study, a total of 260 cool giants (177 stars observed with X-shooter and 83 stars observed with NIFS) are used covering a wider metallicity range than in earlier works. We measure equivalent widths of some of the selected important K-band spectral features like Na i, Fe i, and 12CO after degrading the spectral resolution (R ∼ 1200) to investigate the spectral behaviour with fundamental parameters (e.g. effective temperature and metallicity). We derive empirical relations to measure effective temperature using the 12CO first-overtone band at 2.29 and 2.32 μm and show a detailed quantitative metallicity dependence of these correlations. We find that the empirical relations based on solar-neighborhood stars can incorporate large uncertainty in evaluating Teff for metal-poor or metal-rich stars. Furthermore, we explore all the spectral lines to establish the empirical relation with metallicity and find that the quadratic fit of the combination of Na i and 12CO at 2.29 μm lines yields a reliable empirical relation at [Fe/H] ≤ –0.4 dex, while a linear fit of any line offers a good metallicity scale for stars having [Fe/H] ≥ 0.0 dex.
Multiprotein E. coli SSB–ssDNA complex shows both stable binding and rapid dissociation due to interprotein interactions
Authors: Naufer M Nabuan , Morse Michael , Möller Guðfríður Björg , McIsaac James , Rouzina Ioulia , Beuning Penny J , Williams Mark C
Published: December 2020

Escherichia coli SSB (EcSSB) is a model single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding protein critical in genome maintenance. EcSSB forms homotetramers that wrap ssDNA in multiple conformations to facilitate DNA replication and repair. Here we measure the binding and wrapping of many EcSSB proteins to a single long ssDNA substrate held at fixed tensions. We show EcSSB binds in a biphasic manner, where initial wrapping events are followed by unwrapping events as ssDNA-bound protein density passes critical saturation and high free protein concentration increases the fraction of EcSSBs in less-wrapped conformations. By destabilizing EcSSB wrapping through increased substrate tension, decreased substrate length, and protein mutation, we also directly observe an unstable bound but unwrapped state in which ∼8 nucleotides of ssDNA are bound by a single domain, which could act as a transition state through which rapid reorganization of the EcSSB–ssDNA complex occurs. When ssDNA is over-saturated, stimulated dissociation rapidly removes excess EcSSB, leaving an array of stably-wrapped complexes. These results provide a mechanism through which otherwise stably bound and wrapped EcSSB tetramers are rapidly removed from ssDNA to allow for DNA maintenance and replication functions, while still fully protecting ssDNA over a wide range of protein concentrations.
Health, lifestyle and occupational risks in Information Technology workers
Authors: Lalloo D , Lewsey J , Katikireddi S V , Macdonald E B , Demou E
Published: December 2020

Background

Information technology (IT) and the IT workforce are rapidly expanding with potential occupational health implications. But to date, IT worker health is under-studied and large-scale studies are lacking.

Aims

To investigate health, lifestyle and occupational risk factors of IT workers.

Methods

We evaluated self-reported health, lifestyle and occupational risk factors for IT workers in the UK Biobank database. Using logistic regression, we investigated differences between IT workers and all other employed participants. Regression models were repeated for IT worker subgroups (managers, professionals, technicians) and their respective counterparts within the same Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) major group (functional managers, science and technology professionals, science and technology associate professionals).

Results

Overall, 10 931 (4%) employed participants were IT workers. Compared to all other employed participants, IT workers reported similar overall health, but lower lifestyle risk factors for smoking and obesity. Sedentary work was a substantially higher occupational exposure risk for IT workers compared to all other employed participants (odds ratio [OR] = 5.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.91–5.39) and their specific SOC group counterparts (managers: OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.68–1.99, professionals: OR = 7.18, 95% CI: 6.58–7.82, technicians: OR = 4.48, 95% CI: 3.87–5.17). IT workers were also more likely to engage in computer screen-time outside work than all other employed participants (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.35–1.51).

Conclusions

Improved understanding of health, lifestyle and occupational risk factors from this, the largest to date study of IT worker health, can help inform workplace interventions to mitigate risk, improve health and increase the work participation of this increasingly important and rapidly growing occupational group.
Mineralogy Constraints on Magmatic Processes Controlling Adakitic Features of Early Permian High-magnesium Diorites in the Western Tianshan Orogenic Belt
Authors: He Peng-Li , Huang Xiao-Long , Yang Fan , Wang Xue
Published: December 2020

Whole-rock geochemistry, usually changed by magmatic processes, might provide misleading information on the petrogenesis of adakites. The Heishantou porphyritic diorites in Nileke, Western Tianshan orogenic belt record complex magma chamber processes, such as magma replenishment, fractional crystallization and crustal contamination, and thus, provide ideal samples for tracing the magmatic processes that generate the typically high Sr and La contents and Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios of adakites. In situ clinopyroxene and amphibole compositions of Heishantou porphyritic diorites (271 ± 2 Ma) are characterized by low Yb and Y content with high Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios, from which calculated early magmas resemble typical adakites derived from partial melting of a subducted slab. But whole-rock composition shows low MgO, Ni and Cr, thus, the Heishantou diorites were previously regarded as the result of partial melting of thickened lower crust. Plagioclase phenocrysts exhibit complex compositional zoning due to magma replenishment, and the rims have higher 87Sr/86Sr ratio and Sr content than the cores, indicating crustal assimilation. The cores of zoned clinopyroxene phenocrysts have high Mg#, Cr and Ni but low Yb and Y with high Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios, which are consistent with the high Mg# of primary adakitic magmas. Magmatic processes have significantly changed the primary adakitic features of Yb, Y and Sr content, Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios, in addition to Mg# values. The Heishantou primitive high-Mg# adakite was derived from partial melting of a delaminated lower crust followed by storage, recharge, and assimilation in a crustal magma chamber. The Western Tianshan orogenic belt experienced a succession of lower crust delamination events in the Early Permian that involved melting of thickened lower crust, subsequent lithospheric detachment and asthenospheric upwelling.
Mycetoma in Moshi, Tanzania
Authors: Mavura Daudi , Chapa Peter , Sabushimike Doriane , Kini Lulyritha , Hay Roderick
Published: December 2020

The geographic spread of the neglected tropical disease mycetoma is still poorly understood, largely because there is no mechanism for official reporting and the general lack of identification facilities in many regions. Nonetheless many countries in the tropics have such cases. This brief report is submitted to provide an example of recent experience of mycetoma in six patients presenting to a single centre in Tanzania.
Minimizing exposure to respiratory droplets, 'jet riders' and aerosols in air-conditioned hospital rooms by a 'Shield-and-Sink' strategy
Authors: Hunziker Patrick
Published: December 2020

Background: In COVID-19, transfer of infectious respiratory materials through cough, respiration and air conditioning is considered critical for disease transmission but the interplay of droplet and aerosol physics, physiology and environmental factors is not fully understood, potentially hindering effective source control. We studied transport modes of respiratory secretions and derived effective strategies for exposure minimization.
Methods: Computer simulations and real-world experiments were used. Computational modeling integrated an intensive care setting, multi-physics, and physiology. Patient-focused airflow management and air purification strategies for exposure prevention were examined computationally and validated by submicron particle exhalation imaging.
Findings: Ejected respiratory materials exhibited four transport modes: long-distance ballistic, short-distance ballistic, 'jet rider', and aerosol modes. Interaction with the air flow induced by air conditioning contaminated an entire hospital room rapidly. Different than droplets or aerosols, 'jet rider' particles travelled with the turbulent air jet initially, but fell out in reduced air velocity, were not well eliminated by air conditioning and exposed locations and persons at larger distance and longer time than larger droplets or aerosols; the size of jet rider particles predisposes them to preferential capture in the nasal mucosa, the primordial COVID-19 infection site. 'Cough shields' captured large droplets but induced lateral dispersion of aerosols and jet riders. An air purification device alone had limited efficacy. A 'Shield and Sink' approach combining 'cough shields' with 'virus sinks' reduced exposure of bystanders from all droplet sizes in modeling, with supportive evidence in particle imaging.
Interpretation: 'Jet riders' have characteristics of highly efficient respiratory infection vectors and may play a role in Covid19 transmission inside rooms. Exposure to all droplet types can be minimized by source control through an easily implemented 'Shield and Sink' strategy.
Trithiocyanuric acid: novel cocrystals and analysis of its tautomeric forms
Authors: Wzgarda-Raj Kinga , Rybarczyk-Pirek Agnieszka Justyna , Wojtulewski Sławomir , Palusiak Marcin
Published: December 2020

Cocrystals of trithiocyanuric acid with 2,2′-bipyridyl [1,3,5-triazinane-2,4,6-trithione–2,2′-bipyridine (2/1), 2C3H3N3S3·C10H8N2, (I)] and 4-methylbenzohydrazide [1,3,5-triazinane-2,4,6-trithione–4-methylbenzohydrazide (1/1), C8H10N2O·C3H3N3S3, (II)] crystallize in the monoclinic crystal system. In the crystals, molecules of both components are linked by hydrogen bonds. The trithiocyanuric acid molecules are connected by N—H...S hydrogen bonds forming R
2
2(8) synthons, which are further organized into chain motifs. Computations based on quantum chemistry methods have been performed for a more detailed description of the observed tautomerism of trithiocyanuric acid.
Polymorphism of methyl 4-amino-3-phenylisothiazole-5-carboxylate: an experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Shishkina Svitlana V. , Konovalova Irina S. , Kovalenko Sergiy M. , Kravchenko Dmitriy V. , Bunyatyan Natalya D.
Published: December 2020

Being a close analogue of amflutizole, methyl 4-amino-3-phenylisothiazole-5-carboxylate (C11H10N2O2S) was assumed to be capable of forming polymorphic structures. Noncentrosymmetric and centrosymmetric polymorphs have been obtained by crystallization from a series of more volatile solvents and from denser tetrachloromethane, respectively. Identical conformations of the molecule are found in both structures. The two polymorphs differ mainly in the intermolecular interactions formed by the amino group and in the type of stacking interactions between the π-systems. The most effective method for revealing packing motifs in structures with intermolecular interactions of different types (hydrogen bonding, stacking, dispersion,etc.) is to study the pairwise interaction energies using quantum chemical calculations. Molecules form a column as the primary basic structural motif due to stacking interactions in both polymorphic structures under study. The character of a column (straight or zigzag) is determined by the orientations of the stacked molecules (in a `head-to-head' or `head-to-tail' manner). Columns bound by intermolecular N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds form a double column as the main structural motif in the noncentrosymmetric structure. Double columns in the noncentrosymmetric structure and columns in the centrosymmetric structure interact strongly within theabcrystallographic plane, forming a layer as a secondary basic structural motif. The noncentrosymmetric structure has a lower density and a lower (by 0.59 kJ mol−1) lattice energy, calculated using periodic calculations, compared to the centrosymmetric structure.
Using a data-driven marketing strategy on customer relationship management: an empirical case of urban coffee shops in Taiwan
Authors: Chiang Wen-Yu
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Nowadays, the agricultural business environment is expended to the whole world. Transaction records in point of sales and customer relationship management (CRM) systems can be large-scale data for long-established global chain businesses. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to using a proposed data mining approach to discover valuable markets/customers of urban coffee shop industry (retailer) in current environment of Taiwan, which can implement the industry's data-driven marketing strategy on a CRM system.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research approach, Ward's method, C5.0 decision tree and a proposed model are applied for discovering valuable markets and mining useful customer rules.

Findings

These found markets and discovered rules can be applied on marketing information or CRM system for identifying valuable customers and target markets.

Originality/value

In this study, the CRM system can be the media for the data-driven marketing strategy in environment of Taiwan. The approach of this research can be applied on other businesses for their data-driven marketing strategies as well.
Developing a construction business model transformation canvas
Authors: Das Priyadarshini , Perera Srinath , Senaratne Sepani , Osei-Kyei Robert
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Industry 4.0 is driving an incremental shift in paradigms for the construction industry. Current research in the built environment is limited to exploring the exponential technological prowess of Industry 4.0 with very little work on its implications to the construction business model, strategy and competitive advantage. There arises a challenge for researchers to understand how appropriate technologies can be assembled to assist in achieving the goals of construction businesses. The overarching aim of this research is to develop a construction Business Model Transformation Canvas (BMTC) to map the transformation of construction enterprises in Industry 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out by conducting an expert forum with academics from nine universities across Australia and New Zealand. The study employed purposive sampling, and the academics were selected in a strategic manner in order to provide data that are relevant to the research.

Findings

The research identifies that technology-based partnerships supporting strategy and capability building, platforms enabling enterprises to conceive, design, manufacture and assemble buildings and competition with stakeholders having superior capabilities not in building but in other areas of business are fundamental to Industry 4.0 transformation.

Originality/value

The results present state-of-the-art development of business model research in construction that intends to support the strategic planning of construction enterprises in Industry 4.0. This research is the first and only research that uses a business model canvas (BMC) for strategy-reformulation in incumbent construction enterprises to maintain a competitive advantage in Industry 4.0. Merits of the construction BMTC lie in its holistic approach, visual representation and simplicity.
Coupling LES with soot model for the study of soot volume fraction in a turbulent diffusion jet flames at various Reynolds number configurations
Authors: Ibrahim N.H. Mohamed , Udayakumar M. , Suresh Sivan , Bhattacharyya Suvanjan , Sharifpur Mohsen
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the insights of soot formation such as rate of soot coagulation, rate of soot nucleation, rate of soot surface growth and soot surface oxidation in ethylene/hydrogen/nitrogen diffusion jet flame at standard atmospheric conditions, which is very challenging to capture even with highly sophisticated measuring systems such as Laser Induced Incandescence and Planar laser-induced fluorescence. The study also aims to investigate the volume of soot in the flame using soot volume fraction and to understand the global correlation effect in the formation of soot in ethylene/hydrogen/nitrogen diffusion jet flame.

Design/methodology/approach

A large eddy simulation (LES) was performed using box filtered subgrid-scale tensor. A filtered and residual component of the governing equations such as continuity, momentum, energy and species are resolved and modeled, respectively. All the filtered and residual components are numerically solved using the ILU method by considering PISO pressure–velocity solver. All the hyperbolic flux uses the QUICK algorithm, and an elliptic flux uses SOU to evaluate face values. In all the cases, Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy (CFL) conditions are maintained unity.

Findings

The findings are as follows: soot volume fraction (SVF) as a function of a flame-normalized length for three different Reynolds number configurations (Re = 15,000, Re = 8,000 and Re = 5,000) using LES; soot gas phase and particulate phase insights such as rate of soot nucleation, rate of soot coagulation, rate of soot surface growth and soot surface oxidation for three different Reynolds number configurations (Re = 15,000, Re = 8,000 and Re = 5,000); and soot global correction using total soot volume in the flame volume as a function of Reynolds number and Froude number.

Originality/value

The originality of this study includes the following: coupling LES turbulent model with chemical equilibrium diffusion combustion conjunction with semi-empirical Brookes Moss Hall (BMH) soot model by choosing C6H6 as a soot precursor kinetic pathway; insights of soot formations such as rate of soot nucleation, soot coagulation rate, soot surface growth rate and soot oxidation rate for ethylene/hydrogen/nitrogen co-flow flame; and SVF and its insights study for three inlet fuel port configurations having the three different Reynolds number (Re = 15,000, Re = 8,000 and Re = 5,000).
Modification of superalloy honeycomb thermal protection system
Authors: Brodzik Łukasz
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Paper aims to present problem of aerodynamic heating of a metallic heat shield. The key elements of this construction are metallic layers of superalloy honeycomb, which significantly increase the structure’s resistance to impact. Paper describes the problem of influence of damage size on increase of thermal load.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical analysis was performed in a non-commercial environment FreeFem++ using finite element method, and its results were compared with the results given in the literature.

Findings

In thermal protection system, a modification was used to delay increase in temperature on the underlying structure as well as to reduce its maximum value.

Originality/value

In the further part of the paper, selected insulation material was modified by adding additional conductive material.
Do working capital management practices influence investment and financing patterns of firms?
Authors: Akbar Ahsan , Jiang Xinfeng , Akbar Minhas
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the impact of working capital management (WCM) practices on the investment and financing patterns of listed nonfinancial companies in Pakistan for a span of 10 years.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on secondary financial data of 354 listed nonfinancial Pakistani firms during the period of 2005–2014. The two-step generalized method of moment (GMM) regression estimation technique is employed to ensure the robustness of results.

Findings

Empirical testing reveals that: excessive funds tied up in working capital have a negative impact on the investment portfolio of sample firms. Besides, a negative relationship between change in fixed assets and excess net working capital posits that, eventually, firms use idle resources tied up in short-lived assets to boost their investment activities. Furthermore, larger working capital levels were associated with higher leverage ratio which indicates that firms with inefficient WCM policies have to rely heavily on long-term debt to meet their short-term financing requirements. Additional results indicate that firms that take more time to sell inventory and convert receivables to cash, make more use of debt. Results of cash management models illustrate that cash-rich firms have lower leverage levels which signal the strong financial health and internal revenue generation capability of such firms.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of empirical studies that examine the implications of WCM decisions on a firm's capital structure. Besides, these studies are only confined to how a WCM policy influences the long-term investment activities of a firm. The research contributes to the extant literature by empirically revealing a link between the WCM practices and the firm's long-range investment and financing patterns. Hence, financial managers shall account for the impact of their short-term financial management decisions on the capital structure of the firm.
Suicidal ideation is insensitive to suicide risk after emergency department discharge: Performance characteristics of the Columbia‐Suicide Severity Rating Scale Screener
Authors: Simpson Scott A. , Goans Christian , Loh Ryan , Ryall Karen , Middleton Molly C. A. , Dalton Alicia
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We describe the Columbia‐Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C‐SSRS)–Clinical Practice Screener’s ability to predict suicide and emergency department (ED) visits for self‐harm in the year following an ED encounter.

Methods

Screening data from adult patients’ first ED encounter during a 27‐month study period were analyzed. Patients were excluded if they died during the encounter or left without being identified. The outcomes were suicide as reported by the state health department and a recurrent ED visit for suicide attempt or self‐harm reported by the state hospital association. Multivariable regression examined the screener’s correlation with these outcomes.

Results

Among 92,643 patients analyzed, eleven (0.01%) patients died by suicide within a month after ED visit. The screener’s sensitivity and specificity for suicide by 30 days were 0.18 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.00 to 0.41) and 0.99 (95% CI = 0.99 to 0.99). Sensitivity and specificity were better for predicting self‐harm by 30 days: 0.53 (95% CI = 0.42 to 0.64) and 0.97 (95% CI = 0.97 to 0.97), respectively. Multivariable regression demonstrated that screening risk remained associated with both suicide and self‐harm outcomes in the presence of covariates. Suicide risk was not mitigated by hospitalization or psychiatric intervention in the ED.

Conclusions

The C‐SSRS screener is insensitive to suicide risk after ED discharge. Most patients who died by suicide screened negative and did not receive psychiatric services in the ED. Moreover, most patients with suicidal ideation died by causes other than suicide. The screener was more sensitive for predicting nonfatal self‐harm and may inform a comprehensive risk assessment. These results compel us to reimagine the provision of emergency psychiatric services.
The future of long‐term monitoring following catheter and surgical intervention for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lohrmann Graham , Passman Rod
Published: December 2020

Monitoring following catheter or surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) is an essential tool used to assess outcomes for research purposes and help guide clinical decision making. The most commonly used methods to monitor for postintervention AF include a variety of ambulatory external electrocardiogram monitors, cardiac implantable electronic devices, and more recently, direct to consumer digital health technologies. The traditional metric of ablation success, recurrence > 30 s at 1 year, is below the detection capabilities of almost all monitoring techniques yet still undervalues the efficacy of AF interventions. Measures of AF burden reduction and duration give a more complete assessment of the impact of AF surgeries and ablation. As it is increasingly being recognized that AF burden and duration is related to stroke risk, long‐term, inexpensive, noninvasive monitoring methods are needed. Smart phones and watches with AF‐detecting capabilities, which are increasingly being used by the majority of U.S. adults, have emerged as viable options to achieve this goal, shifting the paradigm of AF monitoring to a more patient‐centered approach.
An association analysis for genetic factors for dental caries susceptibility in a cohort of Chinese children
Authors: Wu Lingli , Li Zhiqiang , Zhou Jianye , Ma Bin , Yu Fei , Zheng Xin , Hu Xiaopan , Ma Zhongming , Su Xuelian
Published: December 2020

Objective

To comprehensively investigate the effects of 25 variants in 15 genes on dental caries susceptibility in a cohort of Chinese children.

Methods

A total of 25 variants in 15 genes were genotyped with MassARRAY iPLEX system and analyzed in 265 healthy controls and 254 children affected by dental caries with different dmft scores. The children with dental caries were stratified into “mild group” (scores from 1 to 3), “moderate group” (scores from 4 to 6), and “severe group” (scores from 7 to 14).

Results

The association analysis revealed that rs11362 of defensin β1 (DEFB1) was significantly associated with dental caries susceptibility (OR = 2.447, p = 1.165E−04). Furthermore, rs11362 was positively correlated with the severity of dental caries. For another selected variant of DEFB1, rs1799946 was significantly associated with dental caries susceptibility in the severe group (OR = 0.473, p = 3.70E−03) and also significant in the group consisted of moderate and severe subjects (OR = 0.623, p = .033). The results from logistic regression in additive, dominant, and recessive models also exhibited the similar patterns.

Conclusion

Out of 25 selected variants, only 2 of DEFB1 gene (rs11362 and rs1799946) were significantly associated with dental caries susceptibility in children.
Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate in acute exercise and training
Authors: Hodun Katarzyna , Chabowski Adrian , Baranowski Marcin
Published: December 2020

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid found in all eukaryotic cells. Although it may function as an intracellular second messenger, most of its effects are induced extracellularly via activation of a family of five specific membrane receptors. Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate is enriched in plasma, where it is transported by high‐density lipoprotein and albumin, as well as in erythrocytes and platelets which store and release large amounts of this sphingolipid. Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate regulates a host of cellular processes such as growth, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis suppression. It was also shown to play an important role in skeletal muscle physiology and pathophysiology. In recent years, S1P metabolism in both muscle and blood was found to be modulated by exercise. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the effect of acute exercise and training on S1P metabolism, highlighting the role of this sphingolipid in skeletal muscle adaptation to physical effort.
Rhombohedral boron nitride epitaxy on ZrB2
Authors: Souqui Laurent , Palisaitis Justinas , Ghafoor Naureen , Pedersen Henrik , Högberg Hans
Published: December 2020

Epitaxial rhombohedral boron nitride (r-BN) films were deposited on ZrB2(0001)/4H-SiC(0001) by chemical vapor deposition at 1485 °C from the reaction of triethylboron and ammonia and with a minute amount of silane (SiH4). X-ray diffraction (XRD) φ-scans yield the epitaxial relationships of r-BN(0001)∥ZrB2(0001)out-of-plane and r-BN[112¯0]∥ZrB2[112¯0] in-plane. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs showed that epitaxial growth of r-BN films prevails to ∼10 nm. Both XRD and TEM demonstrate the formation of carbon- and nitrogen-containing cubic inclusions at the ZrB2 surface. Quantitative analysis from x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the r-BN films shows B/N ratios between 1.30 and 1.20 and an O content of 3–4 at. %. Plan-view scanning electron microscopy images reveal a surface morphology where an amorphous material comprising B, C, and N is surrounding the epitaxial twinned r-BN crystals.
Plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition of thin film Li1+xMn2−xO4 for realization of all solid-state 3D lithium-ion microbatteries
Authors: Sheil Ryan , Butts Danielle , Jungjohann Katherine , Yoo Jinkyoung , Dunn Bruce , Chang Jane P.
Published: December 2020

The plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) process for MnO2 was demonstrated, exhibiting self-limiting growth as well as stable composition and stable growth rate over a temperature window of 205–265 °C. The PEALD process for MnO2 was combined with the thermal ALD process for LiOH to synthesize Li1+xMn2−xO4 thin film cathodes, where the stoichiometry was effectively controlled to allow for crystallization in the electrochemically active spinel phase. A 3D nanostructure consisting of an Li1+xMn2−xO4 cathode layer, ALD LixAlySizO solid electrolyte, and SiGe nanowire anode was fabricated and characterized via TEM. The Li1+xMn2−xO4 thin films maintained 66% of the areal capacity upon a 100× increase in the rate (4–360 μA cm−2) as well as 97% capacity retention over 100 cycles at ∼5C. The ALD Li1+xMn2−xO4 thin films exhibited a volumetric capacity of 52 μAh cm−2 μm−1 at a C-rate of ∼0.5C and, coupled with the high operating voltage (4.0 V), offer some of best areal energy densities for ALD thin film cathodes, making it a viable material for integration with 3D lithium-ion microbatteries.
In-Cu alloy substrates for low-temperature chemical vapor deposition of Mo2C
Authors: Young Katherine T. , Smith Colter , Hitchcock Dale A. , Vogel Eric M.
Published: December 2020

Two-dimensional transition metal carbides are promising materials because of their potential for combining the favorable properties of transition metal carbides with the high aspect ratio of two-dimensional materials. Though commonly produced by top-down wet-chemical synthesis methods, synthesis by chemical vapor deposition is being considered because of its ability to achieve large areas, controlled layer thickness, and reduced defect density. Typically, liquid Cu is used as a synthesis substrate, though the high melting temperature of Cu (1085 °C) requires high synthesis temperatures. Thus, alternative substrates have been studied in order to reduce the necessary melting temperature. This work systematically studies the impact of synthesis parameters and substrate composition on the growth of ultrathin Mo2C (∼4–120 nm thick) by chemical vapor deposition on an In-Cu alloy. Mo2C flake size increases, and graphene/Mo2C heterostructures form with an increase in the methane flow rates. Increasing the In composition slightly decreases surface coverage and coalescence but does not appreciably impact the Mo2C flake size. Increasing In content also decreases the alloy substrate melting temperature so that a lower temperature synthesis (800 °C) can be performed. However, the necessary high temperatures for pyrolysis of methane lead to a lower limit for the synthesis temperature, similar to graphene.
Teacher Beliefs and Changes in Practice Through Professional Development
Authors: Kern Ben D. , Killian Chad M. , Ellison Douglas W. , Graber Kim C. , Belansky Elaine , Cutforth Nicholas
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine how the research intervention called Healthy Eaters, Lifelong Movers (HELM) and associated San Luis Valley Physical Education Academy (SLVPEA) influenced teachers’ beliefs about physical education and the extent to which they sustained pedagogical changes over time. Seventeen physical educators who completed the 2-year intervention were interviewed 3 years later, and data collected during HELM/SLVPEA using the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time were analyzed to create an individual change profile. Mean difference of System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time variables at baseline and postintervention was analyzed using dependent, paired-samples t tests, treating each participant as a separate case. Qualitative data were analyzed using a standard interpretive approach and constant comparison methodology. Teachers made significant changes during HELM/SLVPEA and maintained these changes 3 years later. Their beliefs about physical education were altered, and many reported feeling less marginalized. The provision of resources along with ongoing site support facilitated changes in beliefs and practice.
Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Gene Cluster: Prediction of Enterotoxin (SEG and SEI) Production and of the Source of Food Poisoning on the Basis of
v
Saβ Typing
Authors: Schwendimann L. , Merda D. , Berger T. , Denayer S. , Feraudet-Tarisse C. , Kläui A. J. , Messio S. , Mistou M. Y. , Nia Y. , Hennekinne J. A. , Graber H. U.
Published: December 2020

Besides the infection properties in human and animals,
S. aureus
can produce different enterotoxins in food. The enterotoxins can cause vomiting and diarrhea, often involving many people.
Paracoccidioides
Genomes Reflect High Levels of Species Divergence and Little Interspecific Gene Flow
Authors: Mavengere Heidi , Mattox Kathleen , Teixeira Marcus M. , Sepúlveda Victoria E. , Gomez Oscar M. , Hernandez Orville , McEwen Juan , Matute Daniel R.
Published: December 2020

Paracoccidioides
is the causal agent of a systemic mycosis in Latin America. Most of the inference of the evolutionary history of
Paracoccidioides
has used only a few molecular markers.
Dystonin loss-of-function leads to impaired autophagosome–endolysosome pathway dynamics
Authors: Lynch-Godrei Anisha , Repentigny Yves De , Ferrier Andrew , Gagnon Sabrina , Kothary Rashmi
Published: December 2020

The neuronal dystonin protein (DST-a) is a large cytoskeletal linker important for integrating the various components of the cytoskeleton. Recessive Dst mutations lead to a sensory neuropathy in mice, known as dystonia musculorum (Dstdt). The disease is characterized by ataxia, autonomic disturbances, and ultimately, death, which are associated with massive degeneration of the sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). Recent investigation of Dstdt sensory neurons revealed an accumulation of autophagosomes and a disruption in autophagic flux, which was believed to be due to insufficient availability of motor protein. Motor protein levels and the endolysosomal pathway were assessed in pre-symptomatic (postnatal day 5; P5) and symptomatic (P15) stage wild-type and Dstdt DRGs. Levels of mRNA encoding molecular motors were reduced, although no significant reduction in the protein level was detected. An increase in lysosomal marker LAMP1 in medium-large size Dstdt-27J sensory neurons was observed, along with an accumulation of electron-light single-membraned vesicles in Dstdt-27J DRG tissue at the late stages of disease. These vesicles are likely to have been autolysosomes, and their presence in only late-stage Dstdt-27J sensory neurons is suggestive of a pathological defect in autophagy. Further investigation is necessary to confirm vesicle identity, and to determine the role of Dst-a in normal autophagic flux.
An Evaluation on the Electrochemical Recovery of Indium from Water Insoluble Indium Oxide in a Choline Chloride-Malonic Acid Eutectic Electrolyte
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsueh , Sun I-Wen
Published: December 2020

The use of deep eutectic solvents for the dissolution and electrochemical recovery of indium from water insoluble In2O3 was evaluated. While In2O3 did not dissolve appreciably in choline chloride/ethylene glycol (molar ratio 1:2) and choline chloride/urea (molar ratio 1:2), it dissolved well in choline chloride/malonic acid (molar ratio 1:2) up to 0.1 M at 373 K. Cyclic voltammograms recorded on several types of electrode including GC, Cu, and Mo indicated that the reduction of In(III) to In on Cu and Mo substrates was complicated by hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) but not so seriously on GC due to the higher overpotential required for HER on GC electrode. Because of the HER, the current efficiency of the electrodeposition of In on Cu Mo electrodes was lower than on carbon electrode. Chronoamperometry results indicated that the deposition of In was possibly involved with the three-dimensional (3D) progressive nucleation on the Cu electrode, and 3D instantaneous nucleation on the GC electrode, respectively. Images taken by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the surface morphology of In electrodeposits was dependent on the electrode materials and applied potential. Crystalline In deposits on these substrates was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) patterns.