bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple wavelet-based test for serial correlation in panel data models
Authors: Li Yushu , Andersson Fredrik N. G.
Published: February 2020

Hong and Kao (2004) proposed a class of general applicable wavelet-based tests for serial correlation of unknown form in the residuals from a panel regression model. The tests can be applied to both static and dynamic panel models. Their test, however, is computationally difficult to implement, and simulation studies show that the test has poor small-sample properties. In this paper, we extend Gençay’s (2010) time-series test for serial correlation to panel data case. Our new test is also wavelet based and maintains the advantages of the Hong and Kao (2004) test, but it is much simpler and easier to implement. Furthermore, simulation results show that our test has quicker convergence rate and hence better small-sample properties, compared to Hong and Kao (2004) test. We also compare our test with several other existing tests for series correlation, and our test has in general better statistical properties in terms of both size and power.
Modelling of natural convection in thin-disk lasers
Authors: Dietrich Tom , Röcker Christoph , Graf Thomas , Abdou Ahmed Marwan
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we present a FEM-model that can be used to investigate the effects of thermally induced natural convection at the thin-disk laser crystal. Based on this simulation, we calculated the distribution of the refractive index of the ambient gas for the case of air and helium. By evaluating the optical path difference of a beam at normal incidence, the angular tilt (gas wedge) in the plane of the direction of convection as well as the spherical contribution (gas lens) was calculated for a set of different pump spot geometries and temperatures of the pumped area on the surface of the laser disk. Equations were derived that allow to simply calculate the tilt angle and the focal length of the gas lens for different temperatures of the disk and pump spot diameters for air as ambient medium.
Prospective evaluation of fexapotide triflutate injection treatment of Grade Group 1 prostate cancer: 4-year results
Authors: Shore Neal , Kaplan Steven A. , Tutrone Ronald , Levin Richard , Bailen James , Hay Alan , Kalota Susan , Bidair Mohamed , Freedman Sheldon , Goldberg Kenneth , Snoy Frederick , Epstein Jonathan I.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study was undertaken to determine the safety and efficacy of fexapotide triflutate (FT) 2.5 mg and 15 mg for the treatment of Grade Group 1 prostate cancer.

Methods

Prospective randomized transrectal intraprostatic single injection FT 2.5 mg (n = 49), FT 15 mg (n = 48) and control active surveillance (AS) (n = 49) groups were compared in 146 patients at 28 U.S. sites, with elective AS crossover (n = 18) to FT after first follow-up biopsy at 45 days. Patients were followed for 5 years including biopsies (baseline, 45 days, and 18, 36, and 54 months thereafter), and urological evaluations with PSA every 6 months. Patients with Gleason grade increase or who elected surgical or radiotherapeutic intervention exited the study and were cumulatively included in the data analysis. Percentage of normal biopsies in baseline focus quadrant, tumor grades, and volumes; and outcomes including Gleason grade in entire prostate as well as treated prostate lobe, interventions associated with Gleason grade increase and total incidence of interventions were assessed.

Results

Significantly improved long-term clinical outcomes were found after 4-year follow-up, with percentages of patients progressing to interventions with and without Gleason grade increase significantly reduced by FT single treatment. Results in the FT 15-mg group were superior to the FT 2.5-mg dose group. There were no drug-related serious adverse events (SAEs).

Conclusions

FT showed statistically significant long-term efficacy in the treatment of Grade Group 1 patients regarding clinical and pathological progression. FT 15 mg showed superior results to FT 2.5 mg. There were no drug-related SAEs; FT injection was well tolerated.
Coordinating intergenerational redistribution and the repayment of public debt: an experimental test of Tabellini (1991)
Authors: March Christoph , von Weizsäcker Robert K.
Published: February 2020

Is there a link between public debt and wealth inequality? Could government bondholders use intra-generational redistribution strategically to make the repayment of debt politically viable? We reconsider the model of Tabellini (J Polit Econ 99:335–357, 1991) and expose the role ofcoordinationanddivide-and-conquer. By coordinating their bond investments, the old generation splits up the young generation and secures a majority favoring debt repayment. Coordination therefore mediates the impact of wealth inequality on public debt. We test the model in a laboratory experiment and find that subjects often coordinate to exploit the link between inter- and intragenerational redistribution. Hence, coordination plays an important role in the strategic creation and exploitation of minorities, and thus in the accumulation of public debt.
Binocular responsiveness of projection neurons of the praying mantis optic lobe in the frontal visual field
Authors: Rosner Ronny , Tarawneh Ghaith , Lukyanova Veronika , Read Jenny C. A.
Published: February 2020

Praying mantids are the only insects proven to have stereoscopic vision (stereopsis): the ability to perceive depth from the slightly shifted images seen by the two eyes. Recently, the first neurons likely to be involved in mantis stereopsis were described and a speculative neuronal circuit suggested. Here we further investigate classes of neurons in the lobula complex of the praying mantis brain and their tuning to stereoscopically-defined depth. We used sharp electrode recordings with tracer injections to identify visual projection neurons with input in the optic lobe and output in the central brain. In order to measure binocular response fields of the cells the animals watched a vertical bar stimulus in a 3D insect cinema during recordings. We describe the binocular tuning of 19 neurons projecting from the lobula complex and the medulla to central brain areas. The majority of neurons (12/19) were binocular and had receptive fields for both eyes that overlapped in the frontal region. Thus, these neurons could be involved in mantis stereopsis. We also find that neurons preferring different contrast polarity (bright vs dark) tend to be segregated in the mantis lobula complex, reminiscent of the segregation for small targets and widefield motion in mantids and other insects.
Barents-Kara sea ice and European winters in EC-Earth
Authors: Ringgaard Ida Margrethe , Yang Shuting , Kaas Eigil , Christensen Jens Hesselbjerg
Published: February 2020

The potential link between decreasing Barents-Kara sea ice and cold winters in Europe is investigated using the enhanced resolution (horizontal atmospheric resolution of $$\sim 80\,\hbox {km}$$∼80km) global, coupled climate model EC-Earth. Nudging sea ice only in the Barents-Kara Seas, five configurations of sea ice covers are used to assess the importance of the amount of sea ice in this region. Nudging in the coupled model is achieved by modifying the non-solar surface heat flux into the ice/ocean interface. The mean winter temperature response suggests a weak but statistically significant non-linear response with cooling over eastern Europe for moderate sea ice reductions in the Barents-Kara Seas, a weaker but still cold anomaly for minor reductions and warming for major reductions. However, this non-linear response is not reflected in the circulation. Instead, a negative mean sea level pressure anomaly over Barents-Kara Seas intensifies with sea ice reduction. In contrast to this, is the response in the coldest winters over central Europe: the larger the sea ice reduction, the stronger the Scandinavian pattern and the associated easterlies need to be to obtain cold winters over central Europe. The use of a coupled climate model is a potential explanation for the link between the intensified Scandinavian pattern and the cooling over Europe seen in this study, that is not observed in some atmosphere-only model studies.
The photo-transferred thermoluminescence phenomenon in case of emergency dose assessment
Authors: Wrzesień Małgorzata , Al-Hameed Hiba , Albiniak Łukasz , Maciocha-Stąporek Joanna , Biegała Michał
Published: February 2020

A major disadvantage of dose reconstruction by means of thermoluminescence (TL) is the fact that during readout of any TL material exposed to ionizing radiation (i.e., during measuring the glow curve), the radiation-induced signal gets lost. Application of the photo-transferred thermoluminescence phenomenon (PTTL) may offer a solution to this problem. In PTTL, the residual signal that is not destroyed by conventional TL readout (because it comes from deeper electron traps) can be readout through simultaneous stimulation by UV light and heating, allowing to obtain information about the absorbed dose in a second run. The present paper describes the application of PTTL for emergency dose assessment. For this, MTS-N thermoluminescent detectors (LiF: Mg, Ti) were exposed using a high-energy Clinac 2300 medical linear accelerator to doses of 100 mGy, 300 mGy, 500 mGy, 700 mGy and 1000 mGy. Irradiation with UV radiation allowed the determination of the optimal heating time of 3 h, while the optimal temperature was identified to be 70 °C. The results obtained demonstrated the usefulness of the PTTL method for emergency dose assessment. The efficiency of the PTTL method was determined as 19%. Finally it was found that the detector background after UV exposure should not be underestimated during routine dose measurements.
Increased level of circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA due to a single bout of strenuous physical exercise
Authors: Ohlsson Lars , Hall Anna , Lindahl Hanne , Danielsson Ravi , Gustafsson Anna , Lavant Eva , Ljunggren Lennart
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Physical exercise is reported to affect the immune response in various ways. Thus, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as the abundance of circulating leukocytes are changed. In this study, the occurence of circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cfmtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA) was investigated in connection with a single bout of strenuous physical exercise.

Methods

Healthy volunteers performed a controlled ergo-spirometry cycle test and venous blood samples were taken at different time-points to analyze the concentration of blood components before, during and after the test. The number of circulating leukocytes was measured, as well as secretion of the soluble urokinase activator receptor (suPAR).

Results

Cf-mtDNA significantly increased during exercise, compared to baseline values and after 30 and 90 min of rest. Circulating leukocytes increased during exercise, but returned to baseline levels afterwards. Surface expression of the urokinase plasminogen activating receptor (uPAR) on neutrophils decreased significantly during exercise. The concentration of suPAR tended to increase during exercise but only significantly after 90 min of rest.

Conclusion

Increased concentration of cf-mtDNA indicates that cell damage takes place during high intensity training. Hypoxia and tissue damage are likely causes of cf-mtDNA from muscle cells. The levels of cf-mtDNA remain high during the initial rest, due to the decreasing numbers of leukocytes normally clearing the plasma from cf-mtDNA. The increased levels of suPAR further emphasize that strenuous physical exercise causes a reaction similar to inflammation. Further studies are needed to detect the source of increased cf-mtDNA and the corresponding increase of suPAR liberation.
Shared cerebral metabolic pathology in non-transgenic animal models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease
Authors: Barilar Jelena Osmanovic , Knezovic Ana , Perhoc Ana Babic , Homolak Jan , Riederer Peter , Salkovic-Petrisic Melita
Published: February 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are the most common chronic neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by motoric dysfunction or cognitive decline in the early stage, respectively, but often by both symptoms in the advanced stage. Among underlying molecular pathologies that PD and AD patients have in common, more attention is recently paid to the central metabolic dysfunction presented as insulin resistant brain state (IRBS) and altered cerebral glucose metabolism, both also explored in animal models of these diseases. This review aims to compare IRBS and alterations in cerebral glucose metabolism in representative non-transgenic animal PD and AD models. The comparison is based on the selectivity of the neurotoxins which cause experimental PD and AD, towards the cellular membrane and intracellular molecular targets as well as towards the selective neurons/non-neuronal cells, and the particular brain regions. Mitochondrial damage and co-expression of insulin receptors, glucose transporter-2 and dopamine transporter on the membrane of particular neurons as well as astrocytes seem to be the key points which are further discussed in a context of alterations in insulin signalling in the brain and its interaction with dopaminergic transmission, particularly regarding the time frame of the experimental AD/PD pathology appearance and the correlation with cognitive and motor symptoms. Such a perspective provides evidence on IRBS being a common underlying metabolic pathology and a contributor to neurodegenerative processes in representative non-transgenic animal PD and AD models, instead of being a direct cause of a particular neurodegenerative disorder.
Early non-social behavioural indicators of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD: a systematic review
Authors: Canu Daniela , Van der Paelt Sara , Canal-Bedia Ricardo , Posada Manuel , Vanvuchelen Marleen , Roeyers Herbert
Published: February 2020

We aimed at identifying early non-social behavioural indicators that predict later ASD. Likewise, we were interested in the moment in which non-social signs discriminate between children at elevated likelihood for ASD with a later diagnosis of ASD, and children at elevated likelihood for ASD with a typical developmental outcome. In addition, we intended to explore the developmental evolution of children’s symptomatology over time. A systematic literature search was conducted for longitudinal studies on early non-social behavioural indicators among siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD. The following databases were searched: PUBMED, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL and EMBASE. The study identification process was conducted by two reviewers independently. Compared to siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD with a typical developmental outcome, siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD with later ASD show impairments in attention disengagement, in gross and fine motor development and characteristic restricted and repetitive interests and behaviours, starting at 12 months of age. Moreover, early attention disengagement exerts a predictive role towards a later ASD diagnosis, given that from 12 months siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD who will receive an independent ASD diagnosis towards 24–36 months present marked difficulties in disengaging in comparison with siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD that will not satisfy the criteria for an ASD diagnosis. The findings call for a more comprehensive vision on early indicators of ASD. Further research is needed to extend results to other behavioural domains.
Tailoring participatory action research to deal with the latent problem of an invasive alien vine on Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
Authors: Vaas Jetske , Driessen Peter P. J. , Giezen Mendel , van Laerhoven Frank , Wassen Martin J.
Published: February 2020

Participatory action research (PAR) is an approach for fully co-creating research into environmental problems with the public. We argue this is mostly done for manifest environmental problems that clearly threaten livelihoods and have highly predictable impacts. But the conventional PAR approach is not suitable when the impacts are poorly understood and pose a low threat to livelihoods. Such latent environmental problems do not have a clear conflict to be resolved; instead, the community’s inertia should be overcome. In this article, we develop what we call the PAR-L approach, for which we present a step-by-step guide and an evaluation framework. We then demonstrate this approach on the latent problem of the invasive alien Coralita vine (Antigonon leptopus) on Saba (Caribbean Netherlands) and find that it results in thorough understanding of the community inertia. Overcoming the inertia would require a project to run longer and a simultaneous knowledge-gathering effort, but PAR-L is a good starting point.
Stronger feelings of loneliness among Moroccan and Turkish older adults in the Netherlands: in search for an explanation
Authors: van Tilburg Theo G. , Fokkema Tineke
Published: February 2020

The prevalence of loneliness among Turkish–Dutch and Moroccan–Dutch older adults is higher than among Dutch older adults of non-migrant origin. Three explanations may account for this difference: (1) differential item functioning might result in scores that vary in intensity and in meaning across categories; (2) the position of migrants is much more vulnerable than that of non-migrants; (3) the lack of protective factors has more severe consequences for older migrants. The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam interviewed 176 persons born in Morocco and 235 born in Turkey, aged 55–66 and living in urban areas. They are compared with a matched sample of 292 Dutch persons. The psychometric properties of the loneliness scale are satisfying, although there is some differential item functioning. Older migrants have more frequent social contacts but are at a disadvantage in other domains. Taking into account differences in social participation, satisfaction with income, mastery and depressive symptoms, the difference between older migrants’ and non-migrants’ loneliness is reduced by more than half. Protective factors are equally important for older migrants and non-migrants. Exceptions are marriage (less protective for Moroccans), frequent contact with children/children-in-law (mostly for Turks), a higher educational level (protects Moroccans and Turks) and better physical functioning (less for Turks). Being an older migrant and belonging to a minority might further contribute to feelings of loneliness. Interventions can be directed at stimulating social contact, but also at aspects like enhancing the appreciation of their social status and avoiding negative interpretations of a situation.
Monitoring, modeling and harvest management of non-native invasive green iguanas on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Authors: Rivera-Milán Frank F. , Haakonsson Jane
Published: February 2020

The green iguana (Iguana iguana) was most likely introduced as a pet and became overabundant during the last 20 years on Grand Cayman. Because negative impacts were unmanageable (e.g., damage to buildings and other infrastructure), a harvest management strategy was developed and implemented, and over 874,252 green iguanas were removed between October 2018 and August 2019. Distance sampling surveys were conducted to estimate abundance in February 2019 and annually in August 2014–2019. Abundance estimates were used to develop a Bayesian state-space logistic model, generate the posterior distributions of population and harvest management parameters, and make future predictions of abundance for August 2020–2030. Abundance increased over fivefold between August 2014 and 2018, from an average of 254,162 to 1,319,939 green iguanas. However, after harvesting for 5 months, abundance declined to an average of 600,113 green iguanas in February 2019; and after 11 months, abundance declined to an average of 103,020 green iguanas in August 2019. Maximum population growth rate averaged 1.552, carrying capacity averaged 1,611,013, equilibrium abundance averaged 805,506, maximum sustainable total harvest averaged 628,491, and maximum sustainable harvest rate averaged 0.776. With harvest rates between 0.600 and 0.800, predicted abundance averaged 28,751 green iguanas for August 2020–2030. However, harvest mortality may have unforeseen outcomes due to the release from density dependence and overcompensation through high survival and fecundity rates. Because natural resource managers have partial control over harvesting and incomplete understanding of green iguana population dynamics, monitoring and modeling are essential to assess population response and guide harvest management decisions.
Carbon dynamics in a Boreal land-stream-lake continuum during the spring freshet of two hydrologically contrasting years
Authors: Miettinen H. , Pumpanen J. , Rantakari M. , Ojala A.
Published: February 2020

We studied in 2013 and 2014 the spring carbon dynamics in a Boreal landscape consisting of a lake and 15 inflowing streams and an outlet. The first year had weather and a hydrological regime typical of past years with a distinct spring freshet connected with the thaw of the average snowpack. The latter year had higher air temperatures which did not permit snow accumulation, despite similar winter precipitation. As such, there was hardly any spring freshet in 2014, and stream discharge peaked in January, i.e., the conditions resembled those predicted in the future climate. Despite the hydrological differences between the years, there were only small interannual differences in the stream CO2 and DOC concentrations. The relationship between the concentrations and discharge was stronger in the typical year. CO2 concentrations in medium-sized streams correlated negatively with the discharge, indicating dilution effect of melting snowpacks, while in large-sized streams the correlation was positive, suggesting stronger groundwater influence. The DOC pathway to these streams was through the subsurface soil layers, not the groundwater. The total amount of carbon transported into the lake was ca. 1.5-fold higher in the typical year than in the year with warm winter. In 2013, most of the lateral inputs took place during spring freshet. In 2014, the majority of inputs occurred earlier, during the winter months. The lateral CO2 signal was visible in the lake at 1.5 m depth. DOC dominated the carbon transport, and in both years, 12% of the input C was in inorganic form.
Glucocorticoid Resistance is Associated with Poor Functional Outcome After Stroke
Authors: Lopatkiewicz Anna Maria , Gradek-Kwinta Elzbieta , Czyzycki Mateusz , Pera Joanna , Slowik Agnieszka , Dziedzic Tomasz
Published: February 2020

Systemic inflammation is associated with poor outcome after stroke. Glucocorticoids (GCs) play a fundamental role in limiting inflammation. The aim of this study was to explore the associations between GC sensitivity, systemic inflammation, and outcome after ischemic stroke. The study population compised 246 ischemic stroke patients (median age: 69.0 years; 41.1% female). To assess GC sensitivity, we incubated venous blood samples that were obtained at day 3 after stroke with lipopolysaccharide (10 ng/mL) and dexamethasone (10–6 mol/L). We defined the GC sensitivity index as the ratio of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) released after blood stimulation with lipopolysaccharide and dexamethasone to the amount of TNFα released after blood stimulation with lipopolysaccharide alone. A higher index indicates higher GC resistance. The patients with poor functional outcome had a higher GC sensitivity index than those with good outcome (median: 16.1% vs. 13.5%, P < 0.01). In a logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, stroke severity, pneumonia, leukocyte count, plasma interleukin-6, and TNFα release ex vivo, a higher GC sensitivity index was associated with a higher risk of poor outcome after stroke (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.21–4.45, P = 0.01). In conclusion, GC resistance is associated with poor functional outcome after stroke.
Increased prevalence of Barrett’s esophagus in patients with MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
Authors: Daans Ceranza G. , Ghorbanoghli Zeinab , Velthuizen Mary E. , Vasen Hans F. A. , Offerhaus George J. A. , Lacle Miangela M. , Siersema Peter D. , Ausems Margreet G. E. M. , Boonstra Jurjen J.
Published: February 2020

Barrett’s oesophagus (BE) has been associated with an increased risk of both colorectal adenomas and colorectal cancer. A recent investigation reported a high frequency of BE in patients with adenomatous polyposis coli (APC)-associated polyposis (FAP). The aim of the present study is to evaluate the prevalence of BE in a large cohort of patients with MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP) and APC-associated adenomatous polyposis. Patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or MAP were selected and upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy reports, pathology reports of upper GI biopsies were reviewed to determine the prevalence of BE in these patients. Histologically confirmed BE was found in 7 (9.7%) of 72 patients with MAP. The mean age of diagnosis was 60.2 years (range 54.1–72.4 years). Two patients initially diagnosed with low grade dysplasia showed fast progression into high grade dysplasia and esophageal cancer, respectively. Only 4 (1.4%) of 365 patients with FAP were found to have pathologically confirmed BE. The prevalence of BE in patients with MAP is much higher than reported in the general population. We recommend that upper GI surveillance of patients with MAP should not only focus on the detection of gastric and duodenal adenomas but also on the presence of BE.
Antimatter and the Second Law of Thermodynamics
Authors: Etesi Gábor
Published: February 2020

In this short paper we make a proposal that the second law of thermodynamics holds true for a closed physical system consisting of pure antimatter in the thermodynamical limit, but in a reversed form. We give two plausible arguments in favour to this proposal: one refers to the CPT theorem of relativistic quantum field theories while the other one is based on general thermodynamical arguments. However in our understanding the ultimate validity or invalidity of this idea can be decided only by future physical experiments. As a consequence of the proposal we argue that the dynamical evolution of pure macroscopic antimatter systems can be very different from that of ordinary matter systems in the sense that sufficiently massive antimatter systems could have stronger tendency to form black holes during time evolution than their ordinary counterparts. Taking into account the various uniqueness theorems in black hole physics as well, as a result, antimatter could tracelessly disappear behind black hole event horizons faster in time than ordinary matter. The observed asymmetry of matter and antimatter could then be explained even if their presence in the Universe was symmetric in the beginning.
Electrical and thermal properties of Pr0.6Sr0.4−xAgxMnO3 (x = 0.05 and 0.1) manganite
Authors: Thaljaoui R. , Szewczyk D.
Published: February 2020

Monovalent silver-doped Pr0.6Sr0.4−xAgxMnO3 manganite has been chosen for the electrical and thermal transport studies. The electrical measurements confirmed a metal–insulator transition around room temperature. For the analysis of the resistivity data, in the high-temperature paramagnetic region, the adiabatic small polaron hopping model was operative. The magnetoresistance studies, under different external magnetic field, showed that the MR peak is located at the metal–insulator transition and ferromagnetic–paramagnetic transition, which is characteristic for an intrinsic magnetoresistance. The thermal conductivity results exhibit a semicrystalline character with grain boundary scattering as a main mechanism limiting the heat transfer in samples. The electrical contribution to the thermal conductivity is relatively small, around 1%, as in most of the manganites. The transition point around room temperature is also visible. The additionally calculated thermal diffusivity parameter shows values of the order typically found in perovskites.
Correction to: Transformative experience and the shark problem
Authors: Campbell Tim , Mosquera Julia
Published: February 2020

In the original publication of the article
Nobel laureates are not hot
Authors: Kosmulski Marek
Published: February 2020

The achievements of all 97 Nobel laureates in Chemistry, Economy, Medicine, and Physics of the period 2010–2019 are compared with achievements of top non-Nobel scientists in terms of standard bibliometric indicators (number of publications, number of citations, Hirsch index), of the numbers of highly cited papers and of hot papers (as defined by WoS®), and of c, a composite score (Ioannidis et al. in PLoS Biol 14:e1002501, 2016). Ninety recent Nobel laureates were in top 100,000 scientists in terms of c, and 45 recent Nobel laureates were in top 6000 scientists in terms of c. Only 32 recent Nobel laureates were in top 6000 scientists in terms of ch (Hirsch-type index with self-citations excluded),
32 recent Nobel laureates were in top 6000 scientists in terms of the number of citations (self-citations excluded), 17 recent Nobel laureates were among the 6000 Highly Cited Researchers (WoS®), 4 recent Nobel laureates were in top 6000 scientists in terms of the number of hot papers, and 2 recent Nobel laureates were in top 6000 scientists in terms of the number of highly cited papers.
‘Zero-error’ versus ‘good-enough’: towards a ‘frugality’ narrative for defence procurement policy
Authors: Patil Kapil , Bhaduri Saradindu
Published: February 2020

The procurement decision-making process for complex military product systems (CoPS) has significant implications for military end-users, suppliers, and exchequers. This study examines the usefulness of adopting a fast and frugal decision-making approach for the acquisition of military CoPS. Defence procurement environment is complex. On the one hand, there are uncertainties and severe resource constraints due to regularly changing threat perceptions, limited flow of information about new technologies, and the growing demand to reduce defence related expenses. On the other hand, several stakeholders remain pre-occupied with the demand for ‘zero-error’ technologies. In such a setting, recurrent cost overruns and delays in supply are common in defence procurement programmes, across countries. Taking the illustrative examples of the missile system, fighter jet, and radar system acquisitions in India, we elucidate on ‘optimising’ versus ‘satisficing’ dynamics in the procurement decisions. The paper argues that a fast and frugal decision-making process by relying on judgement, experiential knowledge, and intuitive learning might make procurement processes, adaptively, more efficient. Such an approach would enable a ‘good enough’ technology to be inducted, and improved upon, through regular feedback from the actual environment. The study has implications for policy scholarships on innovation policy instruments under uncertainty.
The externalities of energy production in the context of development of clean energy generation
Authors: Bielecki Andrzej , Ernst Sebastian , Skrodzka Wioletta , Wojnicki Igor
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we present a comparative review of the externalities of electricity production. First of all, the environmental impact is considered. A discussion of the influence of various electricity production processes on human health follows. The studies are conducted in the context of historical development. Current trends, as well as a historical background that resulted in the changes that can be observed today, are presented. The considerations are supported by a few case studies. Analysis of perspectives for the development of electricity generation methods, in particular the indication of clean energy sources and the perspectives of their exploitation, is the main aim of this paper.
Covalent triazine framework with efficient photocatalytic activity in aqueous and solid media
Authors: Ayed Cyrine , Huang Wei , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: February 2020

Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) have been recently employed for visible light-driven photocatalysis due to their unique optical and electronic properties. However, the usually highly hydrophobic nature of CTFs, which originates from their overall aromatic backbone, leads to limitations of CTFs for applications in aqueous media. In this study, we aim to extend the range of the application media of CTFs and design hybrid material of a CTF and mesoporous silica (SBA-15) for efficient photocatalysis in aqueous medium. A thiophene-containing CTF was directly synthesized in mesopores of SBA-15. Due to the high surface area and the added hydrophilic properties by silica, the hybrid material demonstrated excellent adsorption of organic molecules in water. This leads not only to high photocatalytic performance of the hybrid material for the degradation of organic dyes in water, but also for efficient photocatalysis in solvent-free and solid state. Furthermore, the reusability, stability and easy recovery of the hybrid material offers promising metal-free heterogeneous photocatalyst for broader applications in different reaction media.
Effect of Time to Surgery of Colorectal Liver Metastases on Survival
Authors: Chen Emerson Y. , Mayo Skye C. , Sutton Thomas , Kearney Matthew R. , Kardosh Adel , Vaccaro Gina M. , Billingsley Kevin G. , Lopez Charles D.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Resection of liver-only colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) with perioperative chemotherapy is potentially curative. Specific primary tumor and liver metastasis characteristics have been validated to estimate the risk of recurrence. We hypothesize that the time interval from diagnosis of CRLM to surgery, or time to surgery (TTS), is clinically prognostic.

Methods

Patients from a prospectively maintained institutional database at a Comprehensive Cancer Center from May 2003 to January 2018 were reviewed. Clinicopathologic, perioperative treatment, and TTS data were collected. TTS was categorized into short (< 3 months), intermediate (3–6 months), and long (> 6 months) intervals.

Results

Two hundred eighty-one patients were identified. While overall survival (OS) was similar across TTS, postoperative overall survival (postoperative OS) of long TTS was associated with worse survival, 44 months (95% CI, 34–52) compared to short TTS, 59 months (95% CI, 43–79), and intermediate TTS, 63 months (95% CI, 52–108), both p < 0.01. With regard to long-term OS, intermediate TTS had 5-year OS of 59% and 8-year OS of 43% compared to long TTS (5-year OS 53% and 8-year OS 18%) and short TTS (5-year OS 54% and 8-year OS 29%). Long TTS was negatively associated with postoperative OS on multivariate analysis (HR 1.6, p < 0.01) when adjusting for resection margin, CRLM size, age, and use of postoperative chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Short and intermediate TTS had similar survival although patients with intermediate TTS may have better odds of long-term OS. While long TTS was associated with worse survival, likely due to higher disease burden, long-term survivors were still observed.
Expression of the CGRP Family of Neuropeptides and their Receptors in the Trigeminal Ganglion
Authors: Edvinsson Lars , Grell Anne-Sofie , Warfvinge Karin
Published: February 2020

The calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) family of neuropeptides, consists of CGRP, adrenomedullin, amylin, and calcitonin. The receptors consist of either calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR) or calcitonin receptor (CTR) which for function needs an accessory protein, receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs). CGRP has a pivotal role in primary headaches but the role of the other members of the CGRP family of peptides in headaches is not known. Here, we describe the expression of these molecules in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) to understand more on their possible role(s). Single or double immunohistochemistry were applied on frozen sections of rat TG using primary antibodies against CGRP, procalcitonin, calcitonin, adrenomedullin, amylin, RAMP1/2/3, CLR, and CTR. In addition, mRNA expression was measured by quantitative qPCR on TGs. CGRP and calcitonin showed rich expression in the cytoplasm of small to medium-sized neurons, and co-localized sometimes. Procalcitonin was observed in the glial cells. Immunoreactive fibers storing both CGRP and calcitonin were also observed. Adrenomedullin immunoreactivity was found in the satellite glial cells and in fibers, probably the myelinating Schwann cells. Amylin was found in the cytoplasm in many TG neurons. Levels of mRNA expression for adrenomedullin, amylin, CLR, RAMP1, RAMP2, RAMP3, and CTR were measured using qPCR. The experiments verified the expression of mRNA in the TG with the exception of CTR, which was above the limit of detection indicating little or no mRNA expression. In addition to the well-known CGRP receptor (CLR/RAMP1) and the receptor for calcitonin—CTR, we propose that other receptors exist in the rat TG: adrenomedullin receptor AM2 (CLR/RAMP3) in mainly the satellite glial cells, amylin receptors AMY1 (CTR/RAMP1) in mainly neurons, and AMY3 (CTR/RAMP3) in the satellite glial cells. It is important to compare peptides and receptors side-by-side in studies to help address questions of actions resulting from cross-reactivity between receptors. Several of the diverse biological actions of the CGRP family of peptides are clinically relevant. Our findings demonstrate the specific ligand and receptor sites in the rat trigeminal ganglion, highlighting recognition mechanisms to facilitate drug development.
Apprentices’ Errors in Intrapreneurship: Findings from a Large-Scale Assessment
Authors: Kreuzer Christine , Weber Susanne
Published: February 2020

Intrapreneurship competence, as one of the main twenty-first century skills, has moved into focus, as it enables benefits for both organizations and individuals. To foster associated competencies and enable tailor-made instruction, teachers need knowledge not only about what their students can do but also about which errors are typically made within this domain. To identify such knowledge, we analyzed the results from a large-scale assessment (5436 responses). We then classified the errors found according to more overarching error categories and assigned them to the facets of a previously developed and validated intrapreneurship competence model to obtain a deeper understanding of which facets of intrapreneurship are not mastered and what the problems are. Additionally, we refer to more general error types in the domain of creative problem-solving to integrate our findings into the broader discussion. By formulating this error-related information as domain-specific negative knowledge, which refers to “how something is not” or “how something does not work”, respectively, we can use this information constructively when designing instructional means for future tailor-made approaches and individual guidance.
Development of novel mathematical models for laboratory studies of hydrolyzed polyacrylamide polymer injectivity in high-permeability conduits
Authors: Fakher Sherif
Published: February 2020

Hydrolyzed polyacrylamide polymer (HPAM) is the most used polymer in enhanced oil recovery operations in the oil industry. This is mainly attributed to its cost and availability. An important aspect during polymer injection in the formation for mobility control is the ability to inject the polymer easily and safely in the reservoir without having to deal with extremely high pressure gradients and without risking formation fracture. This research develops two mathematical models that can help obtain values for polymer injectivity as a function of HPAM concentration, injection flowrate, and the porous media pore size. The mathematical models were developed based on experiments conducted previously using different polymer concentrations, pore sizes, and polymer injection flowrates. After the models were developed, different data were used to validate the model and examine its accuracy in determining polymer injectivity. The models were also used to predict polymer injectivity for different conditions and illustrate the pore sizes at which the polymer was not able to propagate in the formation. Since the models have several limitations, these were mentioned in the manuscript in order to reduce any error obtained while using the models.
Estimating Reproduction and Survival of Unmarked Juveniles Using Aerial Images and Marked Adults
Authors: Williams Perry J. , Schroeder Cody , Jackson Pat
Published: February 2020

Methods for estimating juvenile survival of wildlife populations often rely on intensive data collection efforts to capture and uniquely mark individual juveniles and observe them through time. Capturing juveniles in a time frame sufficient to estimate survival can be challenging due to narrow and stochastic windows of opportunity. For many animals, juvenile survival depends on postnatal parental care (e.g., lactating mammals). When a marked adult gives birth to, and provides care for, juvenile animals, investigators can use the adult mark to locate and count unmarked juveniles. Our objective was to leverage the dependency between juveniles and adults and develop a framework for estimating reproductive rates, juvenile survival, and detection probability using repeated observations of marked adult animals with known fates, but imperfect detection probability, and unmarked juveniles with unknown fates. Our methods assume population closure for adults and that no juvenile births or adoptions take place after monitoring has begun. We conducted simulations to evaluate methods and then developed a field study to examine our methods using real data consisting of a population of mule deer in a remote area in central Nevada. Using simulations, we found that our methods were able to recover the true values used to generate the data well. Estimates of juvenile survival rates from our field study were 0.96, (95% CRI 0.83–0.99) for approximately 32-day periods between late June and late August. The methods we describe show promise for many applications and study systems with similar data types, and our methods can be easily extended to unmanned aerial platforms and cameras that are already commercially available for the types of images we used.

Supplementary materials accompanying this paper appear online.
DC supply structure and protection concept for (hybrid) electric CS-25 aircraft
Authors: Hinz Arne , Aigner Benedikt , De Doncker Rik W. , Stumpf Eike
Published: February 2020

This article proposes a power hybridization factor-dependent DC supply grid layout and fault protection for hybrid electric aircraft. It is based on a regulatory review and an analysis of the grid components regarding their impact on grid layout and protection. The findings are applicable to medium-voltage DC and high-temperature superconductor-based electrical drive trains.
The Role of First Trimester Ultrasonography in Antenatal Care: A Study from a Single Perinatal Institute in India
Authors: Kunapareddy Mythreyi , Vavilala Suseela
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to assess the role of ultrasound in first the trimester of pregnancy for confirmation of pregnancy, number of fetuses, chorionicity, amnionicity if multiples, viability, assessment of gestational age, identification of structural anomalies and assessment of risk for chromosomal abnormalities. This was a prospective observational study. All pregnant women registered within 13+6 weeks were offered a routine scan between 11+0 and 13+6 weeks. All scans were done by obstetricians, fetal medicine specialists or radiologists are accredited by the Fetal Medicine Foundation. All pregnant women undergoing 11+0 and 13+6 weeks scan were included. Women beyond 14 weeks of pregnancy and referrals from the other centres not delivered at our institute were excluded from the study. A total of 5923 scans were done between January 2016 and June 2017. Complete follow up was available for 2927 women (49.4%), 1925 (32.5%) are ongoing pregnancies and 1071 (18.08%) pregnant women were lost to follow up. The median maternal age in our study was 28 years and 349 (5.89%) mothers had advanced (> 35 years) maternal age. Increased nuchal translucency (NT) (> 95th percentile) was found in 272 cases (4.59%). Intra-uterine fetal death, miscarriages, termination of pregnancy and cardiac abnormalities were higher among women with an NT > 95th percentile. Statistical analysis included calculation of p values and odd’s ratio. Skull and brain abnormalities were found in 28 cases, cystic hygroma in 20 cases, abdominal wall and spine abnormalities in 16 cases each, bladder abnormalities in 12 cases and cardiac abnormalities in 9 cases. Among 2927 women, 85 (1.43%) were screen positive. After counselling, only 20 women underwent invasive testing. The 11+0 and 13+6 weeks scan helps in determination of fetal viability, gestational age, number of fetuses and chorionicity and screening fetuses at risk for trisomy by including screening for structural abnormalities and plan pregnancy/terminate accordingly.
An integrated group FWA-ELECTRE III approach based on interval type-2 fuzzy sets for solving the MCDM problems using limit distance mean
Authors: Mohamadghasemi A. , Hadi-Vencheh A. , Lotfi F. Hosseinzadeh , Khalilzadeh M.
Published: February 2020

The material handling equipment (MHE) has a close connection with layout of machinery and plays the important role in productivity of servicing or manufacturing systems. Since each of MHE has distinct characteristics than the others with respect to conflicting criteria and design experts may state the different subjective judgments with respect to qualitative criteria, the material handling equipment selection problem (MHESP) can be taken into account as a group multi-criteria decision-making (GMCDM) problem. In this paper, a version of type-2 fuzzy sets (T2FSs), named Gaussian interval type-2 fuzzy sets (GIT2FSs), is first used as an alternative to the traditional triangular membership functions (MFs) to weight criteria and sub-criteria and also evaluate of alternatives with respect to sub-criteria. The synthetic value method of GIT2FSs is then carried out to convert the assessments stated as GIT2FSs for each alternative with respect to each sub-criterion and also weights of criteria (sub-criteria) into the single fuzzy rating and weight, respectively. Then, the fuzzy weighted average (FWA) approach is adopted to integrate the single fuzzy ratings of each alternative with respect to sub-criteria and the single fuzzy weights of sub-criteria under each criterion with the aggregated weighted ratings. In next stage, ELECTRE III (ELimination Et Choix Traduisant la Realite´—elimination and choice translation reality) is generalized with GIT2FSs to select the optimal MHE through a new ranking approach. Moreover, some arithmetic operations and properties are extended to GIT2FSs. In addition, to demonstrate its potential applications, the proposed methodology is implemented in a real case study and an illustrative example, and then, the ranking results are compared with those of the others in the literature. Finally, the sensitivity analysis is carried out to show robustness and stability of the obtained results.
Pronoun drop and prosocial behavior: experimental evidence from Japan
Authors: He Tai-Sen , Riyanto Yohanes E. , Tanaka Saori C. , Yamada Katsunori
Published: February 2020

We join a growing body of literature suggesting that the languages people speak influence their decision-making. We tested whether dropping the first-person pronoun “I” affects pro-social behavior in a dictator game-like setting. To this end, we conducted an online randomized, incentivized experiment with a socially representative sample of 2000 Japanese respondents. We provide compelling causal evidence that pronoun dropping reduces pro-sociality. Given that our results provide little empirical support for previous research findings linking first-person pronoun use and lower pro-sociality, we prescribe caution in using languages as a proxy for culture in several cross-country empirical studies in economics.