bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonstationary spatial correlation in New Zealand strong ground‐motion data
Authors: Chen Yilin , Bradley Brendon A. , Baker Jack W.
Published: July 2021

This paper presents new techniques for quantifying nonstationary spatial variations in strong ground motion, using data from recent well‐recorded earthquakes in New Zealand. The data set is unique in that many recording stations are relatively densely spaced, and multiple strong ground motions have been recorded at the same stations. This allows calculation of site‐specific and region‐specific correlations in ground‐motion amplitude for Wellington and Christchurch, and the results are compared to a model assuming stationary correlations at all locations. Strong nonstationarity in spatial correlation is observed in the Wellington and Christchurch regions. Heterogeneous geologic conditions appear to be associated with the nonstationary spatial correlation. Several factors influencing nonstationary spatial correlation were studied: (a) site‐specific residuals indicate deviation of correlation from a stationary model; (b) most earthquakes have no systematic effect on spatial correlations and there is no indication of a trend in correlations with magnitude; (c) rupture complexity is related to the variation of spatial correlations in ground‐motion residuals; (d) variation of site‐specific correlations cannot be resolved by using terms in Ground‐Motion Models. The nonstationary correlation approach provides an opportunity to incorporate the site‐specific effects in future correlation models.
An improved coulomb counting method based on dual open‐circuit voltage and real‐time evaluation of battery dischargeable capacity considering temperature and battery aging
Authors: Wang Shun‐Li , Xiong Xin , Zou Chuan‐Yun , Chen Lei , Jiang Cong , Xie Yan‐Xin , Stroe Daniel‐Ioan
Published: July 2021

Coulomb Counting (CC) method plays an important role in the state of charge (SOC) estimation theory of lithium‐ion batteries, and a lot of improvement and optimization strategies are based on it. With the increasing demand for precise management of lithium‐ion battery systems, the performance of the traditional CC method is no longer suitable for more complex working conditions. First, the battery aging, extreme temperature, and high‐rate discharging were considered as the main influencing factors which limit the SOC estimation accuracy of the CC method, and the performance degradation mechanism of the traditional CC method under the influence of the above factors are experimentally analyzed, especially the change of battery total dischargeable capacity after aging, and the change rules of key parameters in the CC equation are analyzed. Then the initial SOC and the total dischargeable capacity of the CC method are modified and estimated respectively to realize the accurate estimation of SOC under complex working conditions, especially the accurate SOC estimation during the whole life cycle of lithium‐ion batteries. The experimental results show that the improved CC method can effectively deal with complex working conditions, and the comprehensive estimation accuracy of SOC is within 3.6%.
Optic–acoustic Analysis of Fish Assemblages at Petroleum Platforms
Authors: Bolser Derek G , Egerton Jack P , Grüss Arnaud , Erisman Brad E
Published: July 2021

Petroleum platforms provide high-relief reef habitat in several ocean basins and are important to fishes and fishers alike. To determine which variables were important for shaping platform-associated fish assemblages on a basin-wide scale in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, we employed optic and acoustic methods to measure fish distribution (geographic and water-column), abundance, biomass, density, size, diversity, and richness at 54 platforms. We found that variables related to freshwater inflow and meso-scale circulation patterns (e.g., salinity) affected more metrics than platform characteristics (e.g., platform depth). Platform fish assemblages varied gradually along gradients of these variables instead of exhibiting distinct assemblage groupings in non-metric multidimensional scaling space. These effects contributed to the presence of biomass, density, diversity, and richness “hotspots” at platforms offshore of the Atchafalaya River. Our findings underscore the importance of freshwater inflow and circulation patterns in explaining variation in reef fish assemblages in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
2019–2020 Bushfire impacts on sediment and contaminant transport following rainfall in the Upper Murray River catchment
Authors: Biswas Tapas K. , Karim Fazlul , Kumar Anu , Wilkinson Scott , Guerschman Juan , Rees Gavin , McInerney Paul , Zampatti Brenton , Sullivan Andrew , Nyman Petter , Sheridan Gary J. , Joehnk Klaus
Published: July 2021

During the 2019–2020 Australian bushfire season, large expanses (~47%) of agricultural and forested land in the Upper Murray River catchment of southeastern (SE) Australia were burned. Storm activity and rainfall following the fires increased sediment loads in rivers, resulting in localized fish kills and widespread water-quality deterioration. We collected water samples from the headwaters of the Murray River for sediment and contaminant analysis and assessed changes in water quality using long-term monitoring data. A robust runoff routing model was used to estimate the effect of fire on sediment loads in the Murray River. Peak turbidity in the Murray River reached values of up to 4200 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU), shown as pitch-black water coming down the river. The increase in suspended solids was accompanied by elevated nutrient concentrations during post-bushfire runoff events. The model simulations demonstrated that the sediment load could be five times greater in the first year after a bushfire than in the prefire condition. It was estimated that Lake Hume, a large reservoir downstream from fire-affected areas, would receive a maximum of 600 000 metric tonnes of sediment per month in the period immediately following the bushfire, depending on rainfall. Total zinc, arsenic, chromium, nickel, copper, and lead concentrations were above the 99% toxicant default guideline values (DGVs) for freshwater ecosystems. It is also likely that increased nutrient loads in Lake Hume will have ongoing implications for algal dynamics, in both the lake and the Murray River downstream. Information from this study provides a valuable basis for future research to support bushfire-related policy developments in fire-prone catchments and the mitigation of postfire water quality and aquatic ecosystem impacts. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:1203–1214. © 2021 Commonwealth of Australia. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management © 2021 Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

KEY POINTS

This study provides information useful to our understanding of bushfire impacts on water quality. Heavy rainfall after the fires discharged large volumes of ash and sediment into the Murray River, resulting in widespread deterioration of water quality and localized fish kills. Even six months after fires, runoff from the burned catchment was still carrying large amounts of sediments, nutrients, and carbon. The new modeling method can be applied elsewhere to prepare for the adverse effects of rain following a bushfire by minimizing sediment in runoffs.
Genesurance counseling: Current training practices of genetic counseling graduate programs in the United States
Authors: Wagner Chelsea , Stein Quinn , Singletary Claire N.
Published: July 2021

In recent years, it has become apparent that patients expect genetic counselors to be able to address questions about insurance coverage for genetic testing and perform ‘genesurance’ tasks in and out of genetic counseling sessions. Anecdotally, many genetic counseling graduate programs have begun to incorporate genesurance training in some capacity. However, the amount, modality, and potential barriers to this training had not been previously studied; therefore, this study aimed to elucidate current graduate program practice regarding genesurance. Program Directors of Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) accredited programs who had students enrolled as of July 2019 (n = 50) were recruited through the Association of Genetic Counseling Program Directors (AGCPD) listserv and invited to complete an anonymous electronic survey via Qualtrics. Program Directors (PDs) from 25 ACGC accredited programs located in the United States completed the survey and were included in the analysis, responses from two ACGC Canadian programs were excluded due to small sample size and differences in healthcare systems. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and open‐ended responses were coded utilizing latent qualitative content analysis. The majority of respondents from the United States, 96.0% (24/25), report incorporating genesurance training into their curriculum utilizing a variety of training modalities including classroom, clinical, and online experiences. Most (81.0%) felt their trainees were adequately or very prepared to discuss genesurance issues. Despite varied methods of teaching modalities, PDs identified barriers to providing this training, including time constraints within the curriculum, lack of interest in the subject, as well as acknowledging the constantly changing landscape of billing and insurance. Despite these barriers, a baseline understanding of the impact of insurance on offering genetic testing and insight into how insurance impacts clinical practice may be beneficial to genetic counseling trainees, as it reflects the current genetic counselor's workflow and practice patterns.
Genetic counselors and legal recognition: A made‐for‐Canada approach
Authors: Lambert Deborah M. , Patrinos Dimitri , Knoppers Bartha Maria ,   GenCOUNSEL Study, Zawati Ma’n H.
Published: July 2021

Genetic counseling is a fast‐growing profession in Canada. Yet, despite its growth, genetic counseling lacks legal recognition in the majority of Canadian provinces. Legal recognition serves to regulate professions, including genetic counseling, that if not properly regulated, expose the public to the risk of harm. Under Canadian law, there are three models of legal recognition: 1) the constitution of a professional order, 2) inclusion in a professional order, and 3) delegation. This paper explores the practical implications of these different models of legal recognition for genetic counselors. It focuses on the balancing act between protecting the public and the resources required to seek legal recognition under the three different models. With a small number of genetic counselors (n = 484, with 89% found in 4 provinces) compared to other professions, the route toward professional regulation for genetic counselors can be challenging. Though legal recognition occurs at the provincial rather than federal level in Canada, we nonetheless advocate for pan‐Canadian discussions that may benefit future pursuits of legal recognition.
Effects of chloride and nutrients on freshwater plankton communities
Authors: Greco Danielle A. , Arnott Shelley E. , Fournier Isabelle B. , Schamp Brandon S.
Published: July 2021

Increasing chloride concentrations threaten freshwater zooplankton. We questioned the protectiveness of the Canadian Water Quality Guideline for chloride because it is based on individual species studied under laboratory conditions and does not account for potential interactive factors, such as nutrient concentration. We exposed plankton communities to 30 chloride concentration increments for 6 weeks, crossed with either ambient or high nutrient treatments. Total zooplankton abundance, biomass, and richness declined with increasing chloride, with losses observed below the Canadian Water Quality Guideline. Nutrients did not affect the impact of chloride on zooplankton. Phytoplankton and protist responses varied by nutrient level. Under low nutrients, phytoplankton and protist abundance, biomass, and richness increased with chloride. Under high nutrients, phytoplankton and protist abundance and biomass were unaffected while richness decreased with chloride. These results indicate that current water quality guidelines do not sufficiently protect plankton and that nutrient context may alter phytoplankton and protist response.
Temporal Trends and Evolving Outcomes After Simultaneous Liver‐Kidney Transplantation: Results from the US SLKT Consortium
Authors: Cullaro Giuseppe , Sharma Pratima , Jo Jennifer , Rassiwala Jasmine , VanWagner Lisa B. , Wong Randi , Lai Jennifer C. , Magee John , Schluger Aaron , Barman Pranab , Patel Yuval A. , Walter Kara , Biggins Scott W. , Verna Elizabeth C.
Published: July 2021

We aimed to understand the contemporary changes in the characteristics and the determinants of outcomes among simultaneous liver‐kidney transplantation (SLKT) recipients at 6 liver transplantation centers in the United States. We retrospectively enrolled SLKT recipients between 2002 and 2017 in the US Multicenter SLKT Consortium. We analyzed time‐related trends in recipient characteristics and outcomes with linear regression and nonparametric methods. Clustered Cox regression determined the factors associated with 1‐year and overall survival. We enrolled 572 patients. We found significant changes in the clinical characteristics of SLKT recipients: as compared with 2002, recipients in 2017 were older (59 versus 52 years; P < 0.001) and more likely to have chronic kidney disease (71% versus 33%; P < 0.001). There was a marked improvement in 1‐year survival during the study period: 89% in 2002 versus 96% in 2017 (P < 0.001). We found that the drivers of 1‐year mortality were SLKT year, hemodialysis at listing, donor distance, and delayed kidney allograft function. The drivers of overall mortality were an indication of acute kidney dysfunction, body mass index, hypertension, creatinine at SLKT, ventilation at SLKT, and donor quality. In this contemporary cohort of SLKT recipients, we highlight changes in the clinical characteristics of recipients. Further, we identify the determinants of 1‐year and overall survival to highlight the variables that require the greatest attention to optimize outcomes.
Rechargeable Pacemaker Technology in Deep Brain Stimulation: A Step Forward, But Not for Everyone
Authors: Runge Joachim , Nagel Johanna M. , Schrader Christoph , Saryyeva Assel , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: July 2021

Background

Rechargeable implantable pulse generator (IPG) technology has several advantages over non‐rechargeable systems and is routinely used now in deep brain stimulation (DBS). Little is known about the occasional need and the circumstances for switching back to non‐rechargeable technology.

Cases

Out of a cohort of 640 patients, 102 patients received a rechargeable IPG at first implantation or at the time of replacement surgery. Out of these, 3 patients underwent preemptive replacement with non‐rechargeable devices for the following reasons: dissatisfaction with handling and recharge frequency (pallidal DBS in advanced Parkinson's disease/dystonia), severe DBS OFF status subsequent to missed recharging (subthalamic DBS in Parkinson's disease) and twiddler's syndrome (nucleus accumbens DBS in alcohol dependency).

Conclusions

Although rechargeable IPG technology has been received well and is used widely, there are unexpected scenarios that require replacement surgery with non‐rechargeable IPGs.
SUMOylated Senataxin functions in genome stability, RNA degradation, and stress granule disassembly, and is linked with inherited ataxia and motor neuron disease
Authors: Bennett Craig L. , La Spada Albert R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Senataxin (SETX) is a DNA/RNA helicase critical for neuron survival. SETX mutations underlie two inherited neurodegenerative diseases: Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia type 2 (AOA2) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis type 4 (ALS4).

Methods

This review examines SETX key cellular processes and we hypothesize that SETX requires SUMO posttranslational modification to function properly.

Results

SETX is localized to distinct foci during S‐phase of the cell cycle, and these foci represent sites of DNA polymerase/RNA polymerase II (RNAP) collision, as they co‐localize with DNA damage markers 53BP1 and H2AX. At such sites, SETX directs incomplete RNA transcripts to the nuclear exosome for degradation via interaction with exosome component 9 (Exosc9), a key component of the nuclear exosome. These processes require SETX SUMOylation. SETX was also recently localized within stress granules (SGs), and found to regulate SG disassembly, a process that similarly requires SUMOylation.

Conclusion

SETX undergoes SUMO modification to function at S‐phase foci in cycling cells to facilitate RNA degradation. SETX may regulate similar processes in non‐dividing neurons at sites of RNAP II bidirectional self‐collision. Finally, SUMOylation of SETX appears to be required for SG disassembly. This SETX function may be crucial for neuron survival, as altered SG dynamics are linked to ALS disease pathogenesis. In addition, AOA2 point mutations have been shown to block SETX SUMOylation. Such mutations induce an ataxia phenotype indistinguishable from those with SETX null mutation, underscoring the importance of this modification.
Limit cycles of a class of planar polynomial differential systems
Authors: Debz Nassima , Boulfoul Amel , Berkane Abdelhak
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we study the maximum number of limit cycles that can bifurcate from a linear center, when perturbed inside a class of planar polynomial differential systems of arbitrary degree n. Using averaging theory of first and second order, we estimate the maximum number of limit cycles that this class of systems can exhibit.
The value of listening and listening for values in conservation
Authors: Staddon Sam , Byg Anja , Chapman Mollie , Fish Robert , Hague Alice , Horgan Katie
Published: July 2021

Listening is a pervasive and significant act of conservation research and praxis, mattering greatly for the realisation of conservation agendas, not least its ambitions to be outward looking and inclusive in approach. Yet, the value and role of listening has been barely explored in a sustained and reflexive way.

This paper is a preliminary schematic of what it might mean to attend to the act of listening, set within the context of a larger field of listening scholarship as well as more specific manoeuvres to embed relational approaches into the study of people and nature interactions.

We explore what it means to 'listen well' within the context of conservation, highlighting the importance of recognising listening as a relationship and our positions and power within those relationships; the need to care for the relationship through respect and empathy; and the building of inclusive relationships of listening by attending to how space and time influences understanding.

We offer examples of how researchers and practitioners can create spaces for listening, illustrating our discussion with personal reflections about listening practices gained through our various conservation and research careers.

We provide approaches and ideas which help the reader—academic and practitioner—to both understand and articulate the value of listening in conservation and relational values of nature. We hope to inspire the wider use of listening‐based approaches in conservation research and practice, and the recognition and support from senior managers and funders of what is needed to promote long‐term and meaningful relationships between people and nature.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Self‐assembly of thiolated versus non‐thiolated peptide amphiphiles
Authors: Egorova Elena A. , Gooris Gert S. , Luther Prianka , Bouwstra Joke A. , Kros Alexander , Boyle Aimee L.
Published: July 2021

The self‐assembly properties of peptide amphiphiles make them attractive for a range of applications, such as scaffolds for cell culture, drug delivery vehicles, or as stabilizing coatings for nanoparticles. The latter application requires derivatization of the amphiphiles to enable them to bind to, and interact with, a surface. This can be achieved by introduction of a thiol which facilitates binding to gold surfaces for example. However, small changes to the composition of peptide amphiphiles can have a large impact on their self‐assembly behavior. Therefore, we have synthesized and characterized a range of amphiphiles with different peptide sequences, alkyl chain lengths, and with or without a terminal thiol. We have characterized their structure and self‐assembly using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR‐IR) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We discuss how changes to the peptide sequence and alkyl chain affect self‐assembly and compare the self‐assembly properties of thiolated and non‐thiolated amphiphiles. Such knowledge not only provides fundamental insights as to how self‐assembly can be controlled, but will also be helpful in determining which amphiphiles are most suitable for use as stabilizing nanoparticle coatings.
Endobronchial actinomycosis in a child
Authors: Goussard Pierre , Rabie Helena , Marshall Michelle , Mfingwana Lunga , Morrison Julie , Ismal Zane , Retief Francois , Nel Pieter , Da Costa Dawood , Andronikou Savvas , Schubert Pawel
Published: July 2021

Actinomycosis is a rare, indolent and invasive infection caused by Actinomyces species. Pulmonary actinomycosis is very rarely seen in the paediatric population. The classic radiological presentation of thoracic involvement of actinomycosis includes lower lobe consolidation, empyema and periostitis of the ribs. We report a case of endobronchial actinomycosis in a child diagnosed on endobronchial biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Bronchoscopy can be dangerous when performed on these cases, as there is a risk of severe bleeding and large airway obstruction, as was the case with this patient.
Impact of the Antarctic topography on meridional energy transport and its consequential effect in the monsoon circulation
Authors: Tewari Kamal , Mishra Saroj K. , Fasullo John , Dewan Anupam
Published: July 2021

Antarctica has been losing ice in the past, and its ice loss is projected to further enhance in the future due to global warming, causing orographic changes over the region. Such orographic changes are likely to profoundly influence the global climate systems through energy transport over the Southern Hemisphere. The South Asian monsoon system, an anomalous climate system (a transient eddy regionally occurring rigorously during JJAS) originating in the Southern Hemisphere and transporting anomalous energy towards higher latitudes, is also expected to get influenced by its orography. A coupled global climate modelling framework is therefore used in this study to investigate the potential influence of the Antarctic orography on the South Asian monsoon system. The investigation reveals that a reduction in the Antarctic elevation would cause warming over the continent, which will cause changes in the energy budget, with more outgoing long‐wave radiation over Antarctica due to a warmer surface and moist atmosphere aloft. The global climate responds to this perturbation by enhancing the southward energy transport primarily by the atmospheric component via changes in mean flow and eddies from the equatorial region all the way to the South Pole. The monsoon system supports this southward energy transport demand in the Southern Hemisphere by strengthening the mean meridional circulation in the three cells over the Indian Ocean sector. Due to this, the low‐level cross‐equatorial flow enhances over the south equatorial Indian Ocean, which increases the evaporation, and causes changes in precipitation and stationary wave patterns. The sea‐level pressure and surface temperature changes adjust accordingly in response to changes in the circulation. However, rainfall and circulation over the Asian landmass do not change much as the southward energy transport is very much less and is mostly supported by the oceanic components and changes in latent energy over these latitudes.
Tumor Microenvironment Modulation Platform Based on Composite Biodegradable Bismuth–Manganese Radiosensitizer for Inhibiting Radioresistant Hypoxic Tumors
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhang Jing , Song Kang , Du Jun , Wang Xiang , Liu Jinliang , Li Bing , Ouyang Ruizhuo , Miao Yuqing , Sun Yun , Li Yuhao
Published: July 2021

Solid tumors possess a unique internal environment with high‐level thiols (mainly glutathione), over‐expressed H2O2, and low oxygen partial pressure, which severely restrict the radiotherapy (RT) efficacy. To overcome the imperfections of RT alone, there is vital to design a multifunctional radiosensitizer that simultaneously achieves multimodal therapy and tumor microenvironment (TME) regulation. Bismuth (Bi)‐based nanospheres are wrapped in the MnO2 layer to form core–shell‐structured radiosensitizer (Bi@Mn) that can effectively load docetaxel (DTX). The solubility of Bi@Mn‐DTX is further improved via folic acid‐modified amphiphilic polyethylene glycol (PFA). Bi@Mn‐DTX‐PFA can specifically respond to the TME to realize multimodal therapy. Primarily, the outer MnO2 layer responds with H2O2 and glutathione to release oxygen and generate •OH, thereby alleviating hypoxia and achieving chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Afterward, the strong coordination between Bi3+ and deprotonated thiol groups in glutathione allows the mesoporous Bi‐containing core bonding with glutathione to form a water‐soluble complex. These actions conduce Bi@Mn‐DTX‐PFA degradation, further releasing DTX to implement chemotherapy (CHT). In addition, the degradation in vivo and tumor enrichment of Bi@Mn‐PFA are explored via T1‐weighted magnetic resonance and computed tomography imaging. The biodegradable composite Bi@Mn‐DTX‐PFA can simultaneously modulate the TME and achieve multimodal treatment (RT/CDT/CHT) for hypoxic tumors.
A Nanowire Nest Structure Comprising Copper Silicide and Silicon Nanowires for Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes with High Areal Loading
Authors: Collins Gearoid A. , Kilian Seamus , Geaney Hugh , Ryan Kevin M.
Published: July 2021

High loading (>1.6 mg cm−2) of Si nanowires (NWs) is achieved by seeding the growth from a dense array of Cu15Si4 NWs using tin seeds. A one‐pot synthetic approach involves the direct growth of CuSi NWs on Cu foil that acts as a textured surface for Sn adhesion and Si NW nucleation. The high achievable Si NW loading is enabled by the high surface area of CuSi NWs and bolstered by secondary growth of Si NWs as branches from both Si and CuSi NW stems, forming a dense Si active layer, interconnected with an electrically conducting CuSi array (denoted Si/CuSi). When employed as Li‐ion battery anodes, the Si/CuSi nest structure demonstrates impressive rate performance, reaching 4.1 mAh cm−2 at C/20, 3.1 mAh cm−2 at C/5, and 0.8 mAh cm−2 at 6C. Also, Si/CuSi shows remarkable long‐term stability, delivering a stable areal capacity of 2.2 mAh cm−2 after 300 cycles. Overall, complete anode fabrication is achieved within a single reaction by employing an inexpensive Sn powder approach.
Information limits for detecting a subhypergraph
Authors: Yuan Mingao , Shang Zuofeng
Published: July 2021

We consider the problem of recovering a subhypergraph based on an observed adjacency tensor corresponding to a uniform hypergraph. The uniform hypergraph is assumed to contain a subset of vertices called as subhypergraph. The edges restricted to the subhypergraph are assumed to follow a different probability distribution than other edges. We consider both weak recovery and exact recovery of the subhypergraph, and establish information‐theoretic limits in each case. Specifically, we establish sharp conditions for the possibility of weakly or exactly recovering the subhypergraph from an information‐theoretic point of view. These conditions are fundamentally different from their counterparts derived in the hypothesis testing literature.
Phylogenetic analyses and modelling distributions guide conservation of a critically endangered liana species, Eleutharrhena macrocarpa (Menispermaceae)
Authors: Lian Lian , Shen Jian‐Yong , Ortiz Rosa Del C. , Yu Sheng‐Xiang , Chen Zhi‐Duan , Wang Wei
Published: July 2021

Phylogenetic analyses can provide an accurate identification for endangered species, which is a prerequisite for their conservation. Understanding how threats shape the current realized niche of declining species can effectively improve conservation policies. In this study, we used molecular data to identify the real Eleutharrhena macrocarpa, a critically endangered species in Yunnan, China. A niche reduction approach was used to model its range change by predicting the historic and current distributions. Our subfamily‐wide phylogenetic analyses based on five plastid DNA regions indicate that the E. macrocarpa with pinnate‐nerved leaves is real and is a member of Tiliacoreae, whereas the so‐called E. macrocarpa with triplinerved leaves is actually Haematocarpus subpeltatus, which is for the first time reported to be distributed in China. Our subsequent analyses of Tiliacoreae using seven plastid and two nuclear DNA regions further support Eleutharrhena as a distinctly monotypic genus and as sister to Pycnarrhena. Among the four prevalent barcodes in plants, three plastid DNA fragments (rbcL, matK, trnH‐psbA) failed to discriminate E. macrocarpa from Pycnarrhena; however, nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions could well recognize this endangered species. The distributional range of E. macrocarpa has undergone a dramatic contraction over the last 100 years and may further shrink southwestwards in the future. This dramatic range contraction might be associated with habitat loss due to increasing drought and expansion of rubber plantation. We point out the need for in situ conservation of E. macrocarpa populations, and suggest to establish a large nature reserve in southern and western Yunnan to effectively protect E. macrocarpa and other declining species that exhibit similar distribution and habitat requirements. This study highlights the significance of taxonomy and molecular phylogenetics in biological conservation.
Conclusions and Policy Recommendations
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

This chapter aims at synthesising the conclusions of the preceding chapters and it presents specific policy recommendations to foster the redirection of financial flows towards clean energy access solutions in sub-Saharan Africa.
Energy Access in Sub-Saharan Africa: General Context
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

The objective of this chapter is to provide the reader with an overall view of the current situation regarding clean energy access in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as to compare it with other developing and emerging economies. It focuses on the role played by energy in our daily lives and the financing gaps in the power and clean cooking sectors in the subcontinent. This section aims at setting the scene and giving more information about the dramatic energy challenges the region is currently facing.
Risk Analysis and Mitigation Strategy Identification
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

Before exploring risk mitigation solutions available to public and private actors, this chapter first focuses on the identification and definition of investment risks associated with clean energy access solutions in sub-Saharan Africa. It provides the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the hurdles linked to clean energy access financing across the region.
Direct and Indirect Investments in the Energy Sector
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

This chapter focuses on financial investments, coming either from public or private asset managers and institutions. It has two main targeted readers (without any exclusion): (i) public and private capital providers, with the objective of presenting traditional and alternative financial instruments and schemes capable to align risk-return profiles of several investment opportunities in the clean energy sector, (ii) project developers, in order to increase awareness of the financial mechanisms available in the market.
Capital Markets for the Financing of Clean Energy Access in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

After having presented various financial instruments and mechanisms available for financing clean energy access projects and companies, this chapter focuses on a key element enabling an efficient use of some of the schemes exposed in the previous section. Indeed, well-functioning capital markets not only increase the trust of potential capital providers, but also enhance financial flows among countries and actors.
Business Model Adaptation
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

This chapter primarily targets project developers and managers. Apart from the public policies and initiatives, as well as the private financial schemes previously presented, private actions emanating from the persons behind clean energy access projects have also a crucial role to play in the allocation of capital. Capital providers, profit-oriented or not, usually value the way a business is conducted, including how potential risks are managed as well as the capacities of the team to deal with complex situations.
The Role of Multilateral Agencies and Development Banks
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

This chapter concentrates on multilateral and development agencies, either located in Africa or pursing activities in the continent. The main objective is to understand what are their role in the financing of clean energy access in sub-Saharan Africa.
Tests für die Prävention von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen mit aufgegebenen Geschäftsbereichen
Authors: Czupalla Kai
Published: July 2021

Im Kapitel 9 konnten abschlusspolitische Ergebnisspaltungen nur bei Unternehmen mit ineffizienten Unternehmensgrößen i. S. d. Alternativhypothese H1.2 festgestellt werden. Ob diese abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen verhindert werden können, wird im vorliegenden Kapitel anhand der Hypothesen aus dem Kapitel 6 und dem Kapitel 7 getestet.
Anomalies from correlation functions in defect conformal field theory
Authors: Herzog Christopher P. , Shamir Itamar
Published: July 2021

Abstract

In previous work, we showed that an anomaly in the one point function of marginal operators is related by the Wess-Zumino condition to the Euler density anomaly on a two dimensional defect or boundary. Here we analyze in detail the two point functions of marginal operators with the stress tensor and with the displacement operator in three dimensions. We show how to get the boundary anomaly from these bulk two point functions and find perfect agreement with our anomaly effective action. For a higher dimensional conformal field theory with a four dimensional defect, we describe for the first time the anomaly effective action that relates the Euler density term to the one point function anomaly, generalizing our result for two dimensional defects.
Posterior vault “free-floating” bone flap: indications, technique, advantages, and drawbacks
Authors: Tamburrini Gianpiero , Offi Martina , Massimi Luca , Frassanito Paolo , Bianchi Federico
Published: July 2021

Background

The enlargement of the posterior cranial fossa volume is considered one of the main steps of the surgical management of children with multiple sutures craniosynostosis. Different management options have been proposed including fixed expansive craniotomy, free bone flap craniotomy, and distraction osteogenesis.

Objectives

To review indications to “free bone flap” craniotomy for the posterior fossa expansion, detailing advantages, disadvantages, and complications related to the technique.

Results and conclusions

A review of the literature shows that “free bone flap” posterior expansion cranioplasty still has a role, particularly in infants with thin and “honeycomb” structure of the bone, allowing to gain adequate intracranial volume increases and to postpone to a more adequate time surgery aimed at anterior cranial fossa expansion.
Assessing local and spatial uncertainty with nonparametric geostatistics
Authors: Thiesen Stephanie , Ehret Uwe
Published: July 2021

Uncertainty quantification is an important topic for many environmental studies, such as identifying zones where potentially toxic materials exist in the soil. In this work, the nonparametric geostatistical framework of histogram via entropy reduction (HER) is adapted to address local and spatial uncertainty in the context of risk of soil contamination. HER works with empirical probability distributions, coupling information theory and probability aggregation methods to estimate conditional distributions, which gives it the flexibility to be tailored for different data and application purposes. To explore how HER can be used for estimating threshold-exceeding probabilities, it is applied to map the risk of soil contamination by lead in the well-known dataset of the region of Swiss Jura. Its results are compared to indicator kriging (IK) and to an ordinary kriging (OK) model available in the literature. For the analyzed dataset, IK and HER predictions achieve the best performance and exhibit comparable accuracy and precision. Compared to IK, advantages of HER for uncertainty estimation in a fine resolution are that it does not require modeling of multiple indicator variograms, correcting order-relation violations, or defining interpolation/extrapolation of distributions. Finally, to avoid the well-known smoothing effect when using point estimations (as is the case with both kriging and HER), and to provide maps that reflect the spatial fluctuation of the observed reality, we demonstrate how HER can be used in combination with sequential simulation to assess spatial uncertainty (uncertainty jointly over several locations).
Distributed tracing of OPC UA method calls
Authors: Mayr-Dorn Christoph , Pereszteghy Benno , Holzweber Jan , Mayrhofer Michael
Published: July 2021

With increasing digitalization, shopfloor architectures transition to service-oriented, distributed layouts in which the complexity of monitoring communication between systems becomes a major challenge. Distributed tracing assists in establishing causality and hence supports the analysis of latency aspects, wrongly configured communication endpoints, and bottlenecks. In this paper, we present a first feasibility study, which investigates to what extent it is possible to trace OPC UA method calls in a distributed manner using the Zipkin framework. We show how this standard can be used in conjunction with the Eclipse Milo OPC UA open source stack and how it can be integrated into our industry demonstrator “Factory in a Box”.
Gastric epithelial neoplasm of fundic-gland mucosa lineage: proposal for a new classification in association with gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic-gland type
Authors: Ueyama Hiroya , Yao Takashi , Akazawa Yoichi , Hayashi Takuo , Kurahara Koichi , Oshiro Yumi , Yamada Masayoshi , Oda Ichiro , Fujioka Shin , Kusumoto Chiaki , Fukuda Masayoshi , Uchita Kunihisa , Kadota Tomohiro , Oono Yasuhiro , Okamoto Kazuhisa , Murakami Kazunari , Matsuo Yasumasa , Kato Motohiko , Maehata Tadateru , Yahagi Naohisa , Yasuhara Yumiko , Yada Tomoyuki , Uraushihara Koji , Yamane Tetsumi , Matsuo Taiji , Ito Masanori , Maruyama Yasuhiko , Osako Ayumi , Ono Shoko , Kato Mototsugu , Yagi Kazuyoshi , Hashimoto Takashi , Tomita Natsumi , Tsuyama Sho , Saito Tsuyoshi , Matsumoto Kohei , Matsumoto Kenshi , Watanabe Sumio , Uemura Naomi , Chiba Tsutomu , Nagahara Akihito
Published: July 2021

Background

Gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic-gland type (GA-FG) is a rare variant of gastric neoplasia. However, the etiology, classification, and clinicopathological features of gastric epithelial neoplasm of fundic-gland mucosa lineage (GEN-FGML; generic term of GA-FG related neoplasm) are not fully elucidated. We performed a large, multicenter, retrospective study to establish a new classification and clarify the clinicopathological features of GEN-FGML.

Methods

One hundred GEN-FGML lesions in 94 patients were collected from 35 institutions between 2008 and 2019. We designed a new histopathological classification of GEN-FGML using immunohistochemical analysis and analyzed via clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and genetic evaluation.

Results

GEN-FGML was classified into 3 major types; oxyntic gland adenoma (OGA), GA-FG, and gastric adenocarcinoma of fundic-gland mucosa type (GA-FGM). In addition, GA-FGM was classified into 3 subtypes; Type 1 (organized with exposure type), Type 2 (disorganized with exposure type), and Type 3 (disorganized with non-exposure type). OGA and GA-FG demonstrated low-grade epithelial neoplasm, and GA-FGM should be categorized as an aggressive variant of GEN-FGML that demonstrated high-grade epithelial neoplasm (Type 2 > 1, 3). The frequent presence of GNAS mutation was a characteristic genetic feature of GEN-FGML (7/34, 20.6%; OGA 1/3, 33.3%; GA-FG 3/24, 12.5%; GA-FGM 3/7, 42.9%) in mutation analysis using next-generation sequencing.

Conclusions

We have established a new histopathological classification of GEN-FGML and propose a new lineage of gastric epithelial neoplasm that harbors recurrent GNAS mutation. This classification will be useful to estimate the malignant potential of GEN-FGML and establish an appropriate standard therapeutic approach.
How the COVID-19 pandemic can distort risk adjustment of health plan payment
Authors: van Kleef Richard C. , Reuser Mieke
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to disruptions in healthcare utilization and spending. While some changes might persist (e.g. substitution of specialist visits by online consultations), others will be transitory (e.g. fewer surgical procedures due to cancellation of treatments). This paper discusses the implications of transitory changes in healthcare utilization and spending for risk adjustment of health plan payment. In practice, risk adjustment methodologies typically consist of two steps: (1) calibration of payment weights for a given set of risk adjusters and (2) calculation of payments to insurers by combining the calibrated weights with enrollee characteristics. In this paper, we first introduce a simple conceptual framework for analyzing the (potential) distortions from the pandemic for both steps and then provide a hypothetical illustration of how these distortions can lead to under- or overpayment of insurers. The size of these under-/overpayments depends on (1) the impact of the pandemic on patterns in utilization and spending, (2) the distribution of risk types across insurers, (3) the extent to which insurers are disproportionately affected by the pandemic, and (4) features of the risk adjustment system.
High-Temperature and Low-Frequency Acoustic Energy Absorption by a Novel Porous Metamaterial Structure
Authors: Liu Qihang , Liu Xuewei , Zhang Chuanzeng , Xin Fengxian
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we propose a novel porous metamaterial structure with an improved acoustic energy absorption performance at high-temperature and in the low-frequency range. In the proposed novel porous metamaterial structure, a porous material matrix containing periodically perforated cylindrical holes arranged in a triangular lattice pattern is applied, and additional interlayers of another porous material are introduced around these perforations. The theoretical model is established by adopting the double porosity theory for the interlayer and the cylindrical hole which form an equivalent inclusion and then applying the homogenization method to the porous metamaterial structure formed by the equivalent inclusion and the porous matrix. The temperature-dependent air and material parameters are considered in the extended theoretical model, which is validated by the finite element results obtained by COMSOL Multiphysics. The acoustic or sound energy absorption performance can be improved remarkably at very low frequencies and high temperature. Furthermore, the underlying acoustic energy absorption mechanism inside the unit-cell is investigated by analyzing the distribution of the time-averaged acoustic power dissipation density and the energy dissipation ratio of each constituent porous material. The results reveal that regardless of the temperature, the acoustic energy is mostly dissipated in the porous material with a lower airflow resistivity, while the acoustic energy dissipated in the porous material with a higher airflow resistivity also becomes considerable in the high-frequency range. The novel porous metamaterial structure proposed in this paper can be efficiently utilized to improve the acoustic energy absorption performance at high temperature.
Forced displacement: critical lessons in the protracted aftermath of a flood disaster
Authors: Mucherera Blessing , Spiegel Samuel
Published: July 2021

Forced displacement and resettlement is a pervasive challenge being contemplated across the social sciences. Scholarly literature, however, often fails to engage complexities of power in understanding socio-environmental interactions in resettlement processes. Addressing Zimbabwe’s Tokwe-Mukosi flood disaster resettlement, we explore hegemonic uses of state power during the pre- and post-flood induced resettlement processes. We examine how state power exercised through local government, financial, and security institutions impacts community vulnerabilities during forced resettlement processes, while furthering capitalist agendas, drawing insights from analysing narratives between 2010 and 2021. Concerns abound that multiple ministries, the police, and the army undermined displaced people’s resilience, including through inadequate compensation, with state institutions neglecting displaced communities during encampment by inadequately meeting physical security, health, educational, and livestock production needs. We explore how forcibly resettling encamped households to a disputed location is not only an ongoing perceived injustice regionally but also a continuing reference point in resettlement discussions countrywide, reflecting concerns that land use and economic reconfigurations in resettlement can undermine subsistence livelihoods while privileging certain values and interests over others. Policy lessons highlight the need for reviewing disaster management legislation, developing compensation guidelines and reviewing encampment practices. Analytically, lessons point to how state power may be studied in relation to perspectives on the destruction of flood survivors’ connections to place, people and livelihoods, underscoring the critical need for theorising the relationships between power dynamics and diverse experiences around displacement.
Energy–entropy method using multiscale cell correlation to calculate binding free energies in the SAMPL8 host–guest challenge
Authors: Ali Hafiz Saqib , Chakravorty Arghya , Kalayan Jas , de Visser Samuel P. , Henchman Richard H.
Published: July 2021

Free energy drives a wide range of molecular processes such as solvation, binding, chemical reactions and conformational change. Given the central importance of binding, a wide range of methods exist to calculate it, whether based on scoring functions, machine-learning, classical or electronic structure methods, alchemy, or explicit evaluation of energy and entropy. Here we present a new energy–entropy (EE) method to calculate the host–guest binding free energy directly from molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Entropy is evaluated using Multiscale Cell Correlation (MCC) which uses force and torque covariance and contacts at two different length scales. The method is tested on a series of seven host–guest complexes in the SAMPL8 (Statistical Assessment of the Modeling of Proteins and Ligands) “Drugs of Abuse” Blind Challenge. The EE-MCC binding free energies are found to agree with experiment with an average error of 0.9 kcal mol−1. MCC makes clear the origin of the entropy changes, showing that the large loss of positional, orientational, and to a lesser extent conformational entropy of each binding guest is compensated for by a gain in orientational entropy of water released to bulk, combined with smaller decreases in vibrational entropy of the host, guest and contacting water.