bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Disordered Coordination Degree Based on Surface Defective Metal–Organic Framework Derivatives toward Boosting Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zheng Xinyue , Jia Gan , Fan Guozheng , Luo Wenjun , Li Zhaosheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: September 2020

Seeking potential electrocatalysts with both large‐scale application and robust activity for the oxygen evolution reaction allows for no delay. Herein, a squarate‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) ([Co3(C4O4)2(OH)2]⋅3H2O) is reported for electrocatalytic water oxidation. A facile, green, and low‐cost strategy is proposed to introduce defects by not only rationally breaking CoO bonds to form defective coordination environment and electronic reconfiguration, but also systematically modulates defect concentration to optimize electrochemical performance. As a result, the post‐treated surface defective MOF derivative (Co‐MOF‐3h) achieves a current density of 50 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of 380 mV, owing to larger active surface area, more opened active sites, and favorable conducting channels. Finally, density functional theory calculations have further validated the effect of defective coordination in regard to electronic structure for electrocatalysts. This study delivers inspirations in defect engineering and is in favor of developing high‐efficiency electrocatalysts.
Observation of the Effect of Various Operating Factors on the Cohesive Zone Using the Blast Furnace Irregularity Simulator
Authors: Park Tae Jun , Min Soon Ki , Kim Hyuk , Min Dong Joon
Published: September 2020

The blast furnace (BF) process is highly complex, involving multiple phases (gases, granular solids, liquids, and powders) undergoing various chemical and physical phenomena. Any improvement in BF productivity under a given set of operating conditions necessitates a better gas flow distribution through a layered burden structure in the BF. However, it is extremely difficult to directly measure or predict the internal flows in a BF. The main zone of unstable motion in a BF is generally the cohesive zone. Herein, the cause of unstable behavior in a BF is investigated by directly observing the behavior of the cohesive zone using a BF irregularity simulator. It is found that the shape of the cohesive zone is directly influenced by the blast conditions and the height of the deadman, as well as varied change. As the blast volume increased, the height of the top level of the cohesive zone increased and the change in the temperature profile of the cohesive zone according to the difference in blast volume. Thus, it is possible to understand and estimate the unstable motion in a BF under operation by observing the real‐time behavior of the burden, using a BF irregularity simulator.
A picture of the penis: what your surgeon wants to know
Authors: Micallef Dariush , Modgil Vaibhav , Pearce Ian
Published: September 2020

Remote consultations have become the norm during the COVID pandemic so obtaining accurate digital images is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning. Clear guidance for patients on obtaining these images is therefore essential.
Learnings from critical care on COVID‐19
Authors: Pittard Alison
Published: September 2020

COVID‐19 shone a bright light on the work of intensive care units in UK hospitals, where much of what we know about the virus was learned in a very short time. The knowledge prompted a rethink about the way the service is delivered and how those with the infection are managed.
Remote healthcare consultations: the new era of outpatient medicine
Authors: Thompson Thomas , Brophy Thomas , Modgil Vaibhav , Pearce Ian
Published: September 2020

Remote consultations have become more frequent since the COVID‐19 pandemic, and a range of recommendations on conducting these consultations is available. Here the authors summarise key points for clinicians to bear in mind.
Evaluation of Agile Team Work Quality
Authors: Poth Alexander , Kottke Mario , Riel Andreas
Published: September 2020

The maturity of organizations is measured with process assessment models like the ISO/IEC 33001. The product quality is aligned with internal and external product quality charactersitics based on models like the ISO/IEC 25010. With the shift from the Tailorism-driven process orientation to a more people centric organization, the two dimensions process and product quality have to be extened by the people or team quality dimension. The presented approach offers aspects for agile Team Work Quality (aTWQ), as well as related measurement indicators. The approach is evaluated in the large enterprise context of the Volkswagen AG. The indicators of aTWQ have been integrated and established in the agile tool box for a sustainable agile transition of the company.
On the Use of Web Assembly in a Serverless Context
Authors: Murphy Seán , Persaud Leonardas , Martini William , Bosshard Bill
Published: September 2020

This paper considers how WASM can be run in different serverless contexts. A comparison of different serverside WASM runtime options is considered, specifically focused on , and . Next, different options for running WASM within two serverless platforms – Openwhisk and AWS Lambdai – are compared. Initial results show that a solution which uses the built-in WASM supports is found to work better than using the dedicated WASM runtimes but this has limitations and providing more direct integration with WASM runtimes should be explored further.
It’s Not Easy Being Agile: Unpacking Paradoxes in Agile Environments
Authors: Horlach Bettina , Drechsler Andreas
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we outline inherent tensions in Agile environments, which lead to paradoxes that Agile teams and organizations have to navigate. By taking a critical perspective on Agile frameworks and Agile organizational settings the authors are familiar with, we contribute an initial problematization of paradoxes for the Agile context. For instance, Agile teams face the continuous paradox of ‘doing Agile’ (= following an established Agile way of working) versus ‘being Agile’ (= changing an established Agile way of working). One of the paradoxes that organizations face is whether to start their Agile journey with a directed top-down (and therefore quite un-Agile) ‘big bang’ or to allow an emergent bottom-up transformation (which may be more in-line with the Agile spirit but perhaps not be able to overcome organizational inertia). Future research can draw on our initial problematization as a foundation for subsequent in-depth investigations of these Agile paradoxes. Agile teams and organizations can draw on our initial problematization of Agile paradoxes to inform their learning and change processes.
Improving Agility by Managing Shared Libraries in Microservices
Authors: de Toledo Saulo S. , Martini Antonio , Sjøberg Dag I. K.
Published: September 2020

Using microservices is a way of supporting an agile architecture. However, if the microservices development is not properly managed, the teams’ development velocity may be affected, reducing agility and increasing architectural technical debt. This paper investigates how to manage the use of shared libraries in microservices to improve agility during development. We interviewed practitioners from four large international companies involved in microservices projects to identify problems when using shared libraries. Our results show that the participating companies had issues with shared libraries as follows: coupling among teams, delays on fixes due to overhead on libraries development teams, and need to maintain many versions of the libraries. Our results highlight that the use of shared libraries may hinder agility on microservices. Thus, their use should be restricted to situations where shared libraries cannot be replaced by a microservice and the costs of replicating the code on each service is very high.
Spotify Tailoring for Architectural Governance
Authors: Salameh Abdallah , Bass Julian M.
Published: September 2020

Organisations usually tailor Agile methods to fit their needs best. Spotify has developed its own Agile culture to facilitate software development for hundreds of developers across multiple cities. The Spotify model has become influential among agile proponents and hence formed the basis of methods used in other organisations. We have identified a lack of research into agile architecture using the Spotify model.

To exploreHow can architectural governance increase the autonomy of teams when using the Spotify model?, an intervention embedded case study was conducted in a multinational FinTech organisation, using the Spotify model. New processes were introduced by developing and evaluating an approach to Agile architectural governance. This approach incorporates a structural change and a change management process. We conducted 6 semi-structured open-ended interviews and direct observations of Agile practices. The collected data was analysed using Thematic Analysis and informed by some Grounded Theory techniques.

The practitioners in our study report benefits of this evaluated approach. These benefits include transforming architectural based decision into decentralised based decision-making, strengthening the autonomy of squads through aligning architectural based decisions, sharing the architectural knowledge among the squads, and other benefits.

We identify the characteristics and benefits of our evaluated approach to Agile architectural governance using the Spotify model. Also, we identify guidelines and challenges for those wishing to adopt this approach.
Defining TestOps: Collaborative Behaviors and Technology-Driven Workflows Seen as Enablers of Effective Software Testing in DevOps
Authors: Doležel Michal
Published: September 2020

Context: DevOps is an increasingly popular approach to software development and software operations. Being understood as mutually integrated, both activities have been re-united under one single label. In contrast to traditional software development activities, DevOps promotes numerous fundamental changes, and the area of software testing is not an exception. Yet, the exact appearance of software testing within DevOps is poorly understood, so is the notion of TestOps. Objective: This paper explores TestOps as a concept rooted in industrial practice. Method: To provide a pluralist outline of practitioners’ views on What is TestOps, the YouTube platform was searched for digital content containing either “TestOps” or “DevTestOps” in the content title. Through a qualitative lens, the resulting set was systematically annotated and thematically analyzed in an inductive manner. Results: Referring to DevOps, practitioners use the notion of TestOps when characterizing a conceptual shift that occurs within the area of software testing. As a matter of fact, two dominant categories were found in the data: (i) TestOps as a new organizational philosophy; (ii) TestOps as an innovative software technique (i.e. process supported by technology). A set of high-level themes within each of these categories was identified and described. Conclusion: The study outlines an inconsistency in practitioner perspectives on the nature of TestOps. To decrease the identified conceptual ambiguity, the proposed model posits two complementary meanings of TestOps.
Investigating Agile Adoption in Saudi Arabian Mobile Application Development
Authors: Altuwaijri Fahad S. , Ferrario Maria Angela
Published: September 2020

Mobile app development has been considered as one of the fastest growing segments of the software industry both worldwide and in Saudi Arabia. Due to their pervasiveness, mobile applications call for consideration of complex and rapidly changing requirements given the diversity of their environments. Therefore, agile is considered the most suitable methodology for developing mobile apps. However, little research has investigated agile adoption in mobile app development in the real context. Therefore, the purpose of this PhD is to investigate the factors that have a significant impact on agile adoption in mobile app development by small and medium-size software organisations in Saudi Arabia. The expected key contribution of this research will be a deep insight into agile adoption in mobile app development, and the design and development of tools and techniques that may support agile adoption within Saudi context.
What Key Aspects Do ICOs Reveal About Their Businesses?
Authors: Laatikainen Gabriella , Semenov Alexander , Zhang Yixin , Abrahamsson Pekka
Published: September 2020

Blockchain technologies disrupt industries by enabling decentralized and transactional data sharing across a network of untrusted participants, among others. Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) are a novel form of crowdfunding through which hundreds of blockchain-enabled businesses manage to raise billions of dollars in total only in United States. However, there is a lack of understanding of the ICO phenomenon especially related to the business aspects. In this paper, we describe the results of an exploratory study of 91 ICOs and identify the key business model elements that ICOs reveal in their websites and whitepapers. Furthermore, we also note the immaturity and lack of transparency of the business aspects of businesses behind the ICO campaigns.
Operationalizing Agile Methods: Examining Coherence in Large-Scale Agile Transformations
Authors: Carroll Noel , Bjørnson Finn Olav , Dingsøyr Torgeir , Rolland Knut-Helge , Conboy Kieran
Published: September 2020

Following the highly pervasive and effective use of agile methods for software development, attention has now turned to the much more difficult challenge of applying these methods in large scale, organization-wide development. However, identifying to what extent certain factors influence success and failure of sustaining large-scale agile transformations remains unclear and there is a lack of theoretical frameworks to guide such investigations. By adopting Normalization Process Theory and specifically ‘coherence’, we compare two large-scale agile transformation case studies and the different perspectives individuals and teams had when faced with the problem of operationalizing the agile method as part of their large-scale agile transformation. The key contributions of this work are: (i) this is a first attempt to present the results of a comparison between a successful and failed large-scale agile transformations; and (ii) we describe the challenges in understanding the rationale, differences, value, and roles associated with the methods to support the large-scale agile transformation. We also present future research for practitioners and academics on large-scale agile transformation.
N-jettiness beam functions at N3LO
Authors: Ebert Markus A. , Mistlberger Bernhard , Vita Gherardo
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We present the first complete calculation for the quark and gluon N-jettiness ($$ {\mathcal{T}}_N $$

T
N

) beam functions at next-to-next-to-next-to-leading order (N3LO) in perturbative QCD. Our calculation is based on an expansion of the differential Higgs boson and Drell-Yan production cross sections about their collinear limit. This method allows us to employ cutting edge techniques for the computation of cross sections to extract the universal building blocks in question. The class of functions appearing in the matching coefficents for all channels includes iterated integrals with non-rational kernels, thus going beyond the one of harmonic polylogarithms. Our results are a key step in extending the $$ {\mathcal{T}}_N $$

T
N

subtraction methods to N3LO, and to resum $$ {\mathcal{T}}_N $$

T
N

distributions at N3LL′ accuracy both for quark as well as for gluon initiated processes.
Transverse momentum dependent PDFs at N3LO
Authors: Ebert Markus A. , Mistlberger Bernhard , Vita Gherardo
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We compute the quark and gluon transverse momentum dependent parton distribution functions at next-to-next-to-next-to-leading order (N3LO) in perturbative QCD. Our calculation is based on an expansion of the differential Drell-Yan and gluon fusion Higgs production cross sections about their collinear limit. This method allows us to employ cutting edge multiloop techniques for the computation of cross sections to extract these universal building blocks of the collinear limit of QCD. The corresponding perturbative matching kernels for all channels are expressed in terms of simple harmonic polylogarithms up to weight five. As a byproduct, we confirm a previous computation of the soft function for transverse momentum factorization at N3LO. Our results are the last missing ingredient to extend the qT subtraction methods to N3LO and to obtain resummed qT spectra at N3LL′ accuracy both for gluon as well as for quark initiated processes.
On Ulam Stability of a Functional Equation
Authors: Ciepliński Krzysztof
Published: September 2020

In this note, we study the Ulam stability of a functional equation both in Banach and m-Banach spaces. Particular cases of this equation are, among others, equations which characterize multi-additive and multi-Jensen functions. Moreover, it is satisfied by the so-called multi-linear mappings.
Ultrasound-based examination of the medial ligament complex shows gender- and age-related differences in laxity
Authors: Lutz Patricia M. , Feucht Matthias J. , Wechselberger Judith , Rasper Michael , Petersen Wolf , Wörtler Klaus , Imhoff Andreas B. , Achtnich Andrea
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Ultrasound (US) examination of the medial joint space of the knee has played a subordinate diagnostic role up till now. The purpose of the present study was to describe mean values of medial joint width and to investigate the impact of gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) on medial joint laxity in healthy knees using modern, dynamic US in a standardized fashion in unloaded and standardized loaded conditions.

Methods

A total of 65 subjects with 79 healthy knees were enrolled in this study. All volunteers underwent clinical examination of the knee. The medial knee joint width was determined using US in a supine position at 0° and 30° of knee flexion in unloaded and standardized loaded (= 15 Dekanewton, daN) conditions using a specific device. Mean values were described and correlations between medial knee joint width and gender, age, and BMI were assessed.

Results

Thirty-two females and 33 males were enrolled in this study. The mean medial joint width in 0° unloaded was 5.7 ± 1.2 mm and 7.4 ± 1.4 mm loaded. In 30° of knee flexion, the mean medial joint width was 6.1 ± 1.1 mm unloaded and 7.8 ± 1.2 mm loaded. The average change between unloaded and loaded conditions in 0° was 1.7 ± 1.0 mm and in 30° 1.7 ± 0.9 mm. A significant difference between genders was evident for medial joint width in 0° and 30° of flexion in unloaded and loaded conditions (p < 0.05). With rising age, a significant increased change of medial joint space width between unloaded and loaded conditions could be demonstrated in 0° (p = 0.032). No significant correlation between BMI and medial joint width in US could be found.

Conclusion

Mean values of medial joint width in unloaded and standardized loaded conditions using a fixation device could be demonstrated. Based on the results of this study, medial knee joint width in US is gender- and age-related in healthy knees. These present data may be useful for evaluating patients with acute or chronic pathologies to the medial side of the knee.

Level of evidence

III.
Quantitative assessment of brachial plexus MRI for the diagnosis of chronic inflammatory neuropathies
Authors: van Rosmalen Marieke H. J. , Goedee H. Stephan , van der Gijp Anouk , Witkamp Theo D. , van Eijk Ruben P. A. , Asselman Fay-Lynn , van den Berg Leonard H. , Mandija Stefano , Froeling Martijn , Hendrikse Jeroen , van der Pol W. Ludo
Published: September 2020

Objective

This study aimed at developing a quantitative approach to assess abnormalities on MRI of the brachial plexus and the cervical roots in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and to evaluate interrater reliability and its diagnostic value.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study in 50 patients with CIDP, 31 with MMN and 42 disease controls. We systematically measured cervical nerve root sizes on MRI bilaterally (C5, C6, C7) in the coronal [diameter (mm)] and sagittal planes [area (mm2)], next to the ganglion (G0) and 1 cm distal from the ganglion (G1). We determined their diagnostic value using a multivariate binary logistic model and ROC analysis. In addition, we evaluated intra- and interrater reliability.

Results

Nerve root size was larger in patients with CIDP and MMN compared to controls at all predetermined anatomical sites. We found that nerve root diameters in the coronal plane had optimal reliability (intrarater ICC 0.55–0.87; interrater ICC 0.65–0.90). AUC was 0.78 (95% CI 0.69–0.87) for measurements at G0 and 0.81 (95% CI 0.72–0.91) for measurements at G1. Importantly, our quantitative assessment of brachial plexus MRI identified an additional 10% of patients that showed response to treatment, but were missed by nerve conduction (NCS) and nerve ultrasound studies.

Conclusion

Our study showed that a quantitative assessment of brachial plexus MRI is reliable. MRI can serve as an important additional diagnostic tool to identify treatment-responsive patients, complementary to NCS and nerve ultrasound.
Building blocks for persistent memory
Authors: van Renen Alexander , Vogel Lukas , Leis Viktor , Neumann Thomas , Kemper Alfons
Published: September 2020

I/O latency and throughput are two of the major performance bottlenecks for disk-based database systems. Persistent memory (PMem) technologies, like Intel’s Optane DC persistent memory modules, promise to bridge the gap between NAND-based flash (SSD) and DRAM, and thus eliminate the I/O bottleneck. In this paper, we provide the first comprehensive performance evaluation of PMem on real hardware in terms of bandwidth and latency. Based on the results, we develop guidelines for efficient PMem usage and four optimized low-level building blocks for PMem applications: log writing, block flushing, in-place updates, and coroutines for write latency hiding.
Fines mobility and distribution in streaming fibre networks: experimental evidence and numerical modeling
Authors: Redlinger-Pohn Jakob D. , Mayr Melanie , Schaub Gregor , Gruber David , Radl Stefan
Published: September 2020

The motion of flocculated fibres in a streaming suspension is governed by the balance of the network strength and hydrodynamic forces. With increasing flow rate through a channel, (1) the network initially occupying all space, (2) is then compressed to the centre, and (3) ultimately dispersed. This classical view neglects fibres-fines: we find that the distribution of these small particles differs in streaming suspensions. While it is known that fibre-fines can escape the fibre network, we find that the distribution of fibre-fines is non-homogenous in the network during compression: fibre-fines can be caged and retarded in the streaming fibre network. Hence, the amount of fibre-fines is reduced outside of a fibre network and enriched at the network’s interface. Aiming on selectively removing fibre-fines from a streaming network by suction, we identify a reduction of the fines removal rate. That documents a hindered mobility of fibre-fines when moving through the network of fibres. Additionally, we found evidence, that the mobility of fibre-fines is dependent on the fibre-fines quality, and is higher for fibrillar fines. Consequently, we suggest that the quality of fibre-fines removed from the suspension can be controlled with the flow regime in the channel. Finally, we present a phenomenological model to compute the length dependent fibre distribution in an arbitary geometry. For a fibre suspension channel flow we are able to predict a length-dependent fibre segregation near the channel’s centre. The erosion of a plug of long fibres was however underestimated by our model. Interestingly, our model with parameters fitted to streaming fibre suspension qualitatively agreed with the motion of micro-fibrillated cellulose. This gives hope that devices for handling flocculated fibre suspensions can be designed in the future with greater confidence.
Density Measurements of (0.99 Methane + 0.01 Butane) and (0.98 Methane + 0.02 Isopentane) over the Temperature Range from (100 to 160) K at Pressures up to 10.8 MPa
Authors: Eckmann Philipp , von Preetzmann Nils , Cavuoto Giuseppe , Li Jianrong , van der Veen Adriaan , Kleinrahm Reiner , Richter Markus
Published: September 2020

Densities of two methane-rich binary mixtures were measured in the homogeneous liquid and the supercritical region at temperatures between (100 and 160) K using a low-temperature single-sinker magnetic-suspension densimeter. For each mixture, four isotherms were studied over the pressure range from (0.3 to 10.8) MPa. Molar compositions of the gravimetrically prepared methane-rich binary mixtures were approximately 0.01 butane and 0.02 isopentane, respectively, with the balance being methane. The relative expanded combined uncertainty (k = 2) of the experimental densities was estimated to be in the range of (0.02 to 0.06) %. Due to a supercritical liquefaction procedure and the integration of a special VLE-cell, it was possible to measure densities in the homogeneous liquid phase without changing the composition of the liquefied mixture. Based on the supercritical liquefaction procedure, a new time-saving measurement procedure was developed and applied. Moreover, saturated-liquid densities were determined by extrapolation of the experimental single-phase liquid densities to the vapor pressure calculated with an equation of state (EOS); here, the relative expanded combined uncertainty (k = 2) is less than 0.05 % in most cases. The new experimental results were compared with the GERG-2008 equation of state, the EOS-LNG and the enhanced revised Klosek and McKinley (ERKM) method.
Validity of the Empatica E4 Wristband to Measure Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Parameters: a Comparison to Electrocardiography (ECG)
Authors: Schuurmans Angela A. T. , de Looff Peter , Nijhof Karin S. , Rosada Catarina , Scholte Ron H. J. , Popma Arne , Otten Roy
Published: September 2020

Wearable monitoring devices are an innovative way to measure heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV), however, there is still debate about the validity of these wearables. This study aimed to validate the accuracy and predictive value of the Empatica E4 wristband against the VU University Ambulatory Monitoring System (VU-AMS) in a clinical population of traumatized adolescents in residential care. A sample of 345 recordings of both the Empatica E4 wristband and the VU-AMS was derived from a feasibility study that included fifteen participants. They wore both devices during two experimental testing and twelve intervention sessions. We used correlations, cross-correlations, Mann-Whitney tests, difference factors, Bland-Altman plots, and Limits of Agreement to evaluate differences in outcomes between devices. Significant correlations were found between Empatica E4 and VU-AMS recordings for HR, SDNN, RMSSD, and HF recordings. There was a significant difference between the devices for all parameters but HR, although effect sizes were small for SDNN, LF, and HF. For all parameters but RMSSD, testing outcomes of the two devices led to the same conclusions regarding significance. The Empatica E4 wristband provides a new opportunity to measure HRV in an unobtrusive way. Results of this study indicate the potential of the Empatica E4 as a practical and valid tool for research on HR and HRV under non-movement conditions. While more research needs to be conducted, this study could be considered as a first step to support the use of HRV recordings provided by wearables.
Fast greedy $$\mathcal {C}$$-bound minimization with guarantees
Authors: Bauvin Baptiste , Capponi Cécile , Roy Jean-Francis , Laviolette François
Published: September 2020

The$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound is a tight bound on the true risk of a majority vote classifier that relies on the individual quality and pairwise disagreement of the voters and provides PAC-Bayesian generalization guarantees. Based on this bound, MinCq is a classification algorithm that returns a dense distribution on a finite set of voters by minimizing it. Introduced later and inspired by boosting, CqBoost uses a column generation approach to build a sparse$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound optimal distribution on a possibly infinite set of voters. However, both approaches have a high computational learning time because they minimize the$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound by solving a quadratic program. Yet, one advantage of CqBoost is its experimental ability to provide sparse solutions. In this work, we address the problem of accelerating the$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound minimization process while keeping the sparsity of the solution and without losing accuracy. We present CB-Boost, a computationally efficient classification algorithm relying on a greedy–boosting-based–$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound optimization. An in-depth analysis proves the optimality of the greedy minimization process and quantifies the decrease of the$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound operated by the algorithm. Generalization guarantees are then drawn based on already existing PAC-Bayesian theorems. In addition, we experimentally evaluate the relevance of CB-Boost in terms of the three main properties we expect about it: accuracy, sparsity, and computational efficiency compared to MinCq, CqBoost, Adaboost and other ensemble methods. As observed in these experiments, CB-Boost not only achieves results comparable to the state of the art, but also provides$$\mathcal {C}$$C-bound sub-optimal weights with very few computational demand while keeping the sparsity property of CqBoost.
Nonlinear asset-price dynamics and stabilization policies
Authors: Schmitt Noemi , Tramontana Fabio , Westerhoff Frank
Published: September 2020

We first present a brief review of nonlinear asset-pricing models and contributions in which such models have been used as benchmarks to evaluate the effectiveness of a number of regulatory policy measures. We then illustrate the functioning of one particular asset-pricing model—the seminal framework by Brock and Hommes (J Econ Dyn Control 22:1235–1274, 1998)—and its possible stabilization via a central authority that seeks to counter the destabilizing trading behavior of speculators. Our paper underlines that tools from the field of nonlinear dynamical systems may foster our understanding of the functioning of asset markets, thereby enabling policymakers to design better trading environments in the future.
Do plants use root-derived proteases to promote the uptake of soil organic nitrogen?
Authors: Greenfield Lucy M. , Hill Paul W. , Paterson Eric , Baggs Elizabeth M. , Jones Davey L.
Published: September 2020

Aims

The capacity of plant roots to directly acquire organic nitrogen (N) in the form of oligopeptides and amino acids from soil is well established. However, plants have poor access to protein, the central reservoir of soil organic N. Our question is: do plants actively secrete proteases to enhance the breakdown of soil protein or are they functionally reliant on soil microorganisms to undertake this role?

Methods

Growing maize and wheat under sterile hydroponic conditions with and without inorganic N, we measured protease activity on the root surface (root-bound proteases) or exogenously in the solution (free proteases). We compared root protease activities to the rhizosphere microbial community to estimate the ecological significance of root-derived proteases.

Results

We found little evidence for the secretion of free proteases, with almost all protease activity associated with the root surface. Root protease activity was not stimulated under N deficiency. Our findings suggest that cereal roots contribute one-fifth of rhizosphere protease activity.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that plant N uptake is only functionally significant when soil protein is in direct contact with root surfaces. The lack of protease upregulation under N deficiency suggests that root protease activity is unrelated to enhanced soil N capture.
Religious Barriers to the Diffusion of Same-sex Civil Unions in Italy
Authors: Ruiu Gabriele , Gonano Giovanna
Published: September 2020

The legal recognition of civil unions between same-sex partners, in May 2016, could be defined as a revolution for the system of legal norms regarding the “heterosexual family-centric-system” in Italy. Using official data on the 17,341 people resulting in a same-sex civil union collected by the Italian National Institute of Statistics in the years 2016–2018, this paper analysed the relationship between religious secularization and the diffusion of same-sex civil unions at the regional level in Italy. In particular, an indicator of the incidence of civilly united individuals over total population has been regressed on the rate of heterosexual marriages celebrated according to the civil rite. According to abundant literature, the latter variable could be interpreted as a proxy of secularization. The results indicate that less secularized regions are also those where less civil unions have been celebrated. The results are confirmed also when an instrumental variable approach is implemented. Studying this topic in Italy is particularly interesting since the country has been defined as the least secularized among economically developed nations.
Explanatory dispositionalism
Authors: Vetter Barbara
Published: September 2020

Inspired both by our ordinary understanding of the world and by reflection on science, anti-Humeanism is a growing trend in metaphysics. Anti-Humeans reject the Lewisian doctrine of Humean supervenience that the world is “just one little thing and then another”, and argue instead that dispositions, powers, or capacities provide connection and (some say) activity in nature. But how exactly are we to understand the shared commitment of this anti-Humean movement? I argue that this kind of anti-Humeanism, at its most general level, is to be understood neither as a view about ontology (the existence of certain properties) nor about fundamentality, but rather as a specific claim about what explains what.
Melatonin maintains the function of the blood redox system at combined ethanol-induced toxicity and subclinical inflammation in mice
Authors: Kurhaluk Natalia , Tkachenko Halyna , Lukash Oleksandr , Winklewski Pawel J. , Wszedybyl-Winklewska Magdalena
Published: September 2020

Background

The goal of this study was to assess the effect of melatonin on blood redox systems in mice simultaneously exposed to ethanol and low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Methods

Oxidative stress parameters were assessed in eight groups: untreated control, melatonin (10 mg kg−1, 10 days), LPS (injected once intraperitoneally at a dose of 150 μg per mouse), LPS with previous melatonin treatment, acute ethanol-induced stress (AES, 0.75 g kg−1 per day, 10 days), AES with previous melatonin treatment, LPS- and AES-induced toxicity, and melatonin treatment.

Results

Both ethanol and LPS induced oxidative stress. The combination of these two factors was even more toxic to the organism. Melatonin stabilized erythrocyte membranes and decreased the high level of free radical oxidation at the initial and final stages. Furthermore, melatonin limited protein damage through maintenance in the functional ability of the blood redox system to counteract pathological conditions.

Conclusions

Melatonin limited the negative effects associated with alcohol consumption and low-intensity inflammation.
Global Climate Implications for Homelessness: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kidd Sean A. , Greco Susan , McKenzie Kwame
Published: September 2020

Homelessness is a persistent global challenge with significant health impacts on those affected. Homeless people are by definition the most exposed to weather conditions and the social and economic problems caused by extreme weather and climate change and variability. This systematic review was designed to synthesize the academic literature that addresses the health and social implications of global climate change for homelessness. The question examined in this systematic scoping review is the following: What is the current state of knowledge in the scientific literature on the health and social implications of global climate change for homelessness? A systematic scoping review method was used to identify and synthesize the peer-reviewed literature relevant to this question. The databases searched were PsycINFO, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Of the 26 papers identified in this review, 20 employed original data analyses with conclusions largely inferred from cross-sectional associations. Themes included the potential influence of climate change on homelessness prevalence, climate impacts that exacerbate specific vulnerabilities of homeless populations (e.g., chronic illness, exposure, stigmatization), and health and social outcomes. Service use and design implications were also addressed. Given the scale of the impacts of climate change on homelessness, the literature on this topic poses promising directions but is under-developed in its current state to adequately inform risk mitigation and response planning. A systems framework is proposed here to inform future research and service design.
Interface Characterization of Ni/Al Bimetallic Explosively Welded Plate Manufactured with Application of Exceptionally High Detonation Speed
Authors: Kwiecien I. , Bobrowski P. , Janusz-Skuza M. , Wierzbicka-Miernik A. , Tarasek A. , Szulc Z. , Wojewoda-Budka J.
Published: September 2020

The investigation is dedicated to the detailed microstructure characterization of explosively welded clads, in which, exceptionally and for cognitive purposes, a very high detonation speed of about 2800 m/s was used to manufacture bimetallic aluminum-nickel plates. The study involves detailed microstructural characteristics of the bonded zone at micro and nano level, especially focused on the expanded melted regions consisted mostly of Al3Ni, Al3Ni2 and AlNi phases. In situ heating experiment in transmission electron microscope allowed observing microstructure transformation revealing that additionally present metastable Al9Ni2 phase was transformed to Al3Ni and Al3Ni2. Microhardness measurements across the welded zone showed the increase of the microhardness of nickel alloy plate from 153 up to 170 HV when approaching to the Ni201/A1050 interface, while the value for aluminum plate was of 45 HV. Within the melted zones the microhardness was found to be 135 HV and it enormously increased to 850 HV after annealing of the sample at 500 °C. This change was due to the transformation of the interface region from the waves with the melted zones into the continuous layers of two intermetallic phases: Al3Ni and Al3Ni2. The second phase grew at the expense of the Al3Ni.
Splitting Lemma for Biholomorphic Mappings with Smooth Dependence on Parameters
Authors: Lewandowski Arkadiusz
Published: September 2020

We prove that the mappings obtained in Forstnerič splitting lemma vary in a $$\mathcal {C}^{\lfloor {\frac{l-1}{2}}\rfloor }$$

C

⌊

l
-
1

2

⌋

-continuous way if only the input family of biholomorphic mappings close to Id (and their domains) is $$\mathcal {C}^l$$

C

l

-continuous (see Theorem 1.3 for a precise formulation).
Rüstungspolitik im Zeichen des Versagens: Die Trendwende Material der Bundeswehr zwischen Anspruch und Realität
Authors: Sebaldt Martin
Published: September 2020

Die deutsche Rüstungspolitik versagt: Seit einigen Jahren steht sie unter dem Motto Trendwende Material, und trotzdem ist es ihr nicht gelungen, die prekäre Ausstattungslage der Bundeswehr signifikant zu verbessern. Eine Auseinandersetzung mit den zentralen militärpolitischen Planungsdokumenten der letzten Jahre (Verteidigungsweißbuch, Konzeption der Bundeswehr, Strategie der Reserve) enthüllt den entscheidenden Grund dieses Versagens: strategisch-konzeptionelles Unvermögen. Folgerung: Nur eine grundlegende Erneuerung militärpolitischer Strategiearbeit kann dieses rüstungspolitische Unvermögen beheben.
Managing randomization in the multi-block alternating direction method of multipliers for quadratic optimization
Authors: Mihić Krešimir , Zhu Mingxi , Ye Yinyu
Published: September 2020

The Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) has gained a lot of attention for solving large-scale and objective-separable constrained optimization. However, the two-block variable structure of the ADMM still limits the practical computational efficiency of the method, because one big matrix factorization is needed at least once even for linear and convex quadratic programming. This drawback may be overcome by enforcing a multi-block structure of the decision variables in the original optimization problem. Unfortunately, the multi-block ADMM, with more than two blocks, is not guaranteed to be convergent. On the other hand, two positive developments have been made: first, if in each cyclic loop one randomly permutes the updating order of the multiple blocks, then the method converges in expectation for solving any system of linear equations with any number of blocks. Secondly, such a randomly permuted ADMM also works for equality-constrained convex quadratic programming even when the objective function is not separable. The goal of this paper is twofold. First, we add more randomness into the ADMM by developing a randomly assembled cyclic ADMM (RAC-ADMM) where the decision variables in each block are randomly assembled. We discuss the theoretical properties of RAC-ADMM and show when random assembling helps and when it hurts, and develop a criterion to guarantee that it converges almost surely. Secondly, using the theoretical guidance on RAC-ADMM, we conduct multiple numerical tests on solving both randomly generated and large-scale benchmark quadratic optimization problems, which include continuous, and binary graph-partition and quadratic assignment, and selected machine learning problems. Our numerical tests show that the RAC-ADMM, with a variable-grouping strategy, could significantly improve the computation efficiency on solving most quadratic optimization problems.
Realization of the New Kilogram Using 28Si-Enriched Spheres and Dissemination of Mass Standards at NMIJ
Authors: Kuramoto Naoki , Mizushima Shigeki , Zhang Lulu , Fujita Kazuaki , Ota Yuichi , Okubo Sho , Inaba Hajime
Published: September 2020

The new definition of the kilogram was implemented on May 20, 2019. The kilogram is presently defined by a fixed value of the Planck constant. On the basis of the new definition, the kilogram will be realized at the National Metrology Institute of Japan by the X-ray crystal density method using 28Si-enriched spheres. For the realization, the volume of 28Si-enriched spheres is measured by optical interferometry. The sphere surface characterization by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and ellipsometry is also performed. The relative standard uncertainty of the realization is estimated to be 2.4 × 10−8. Details of the realization and future dissemination of mass standards in Japan based on the 28Si-enriched spheres are described.
Development of D-Loop mitochondrial markers for amplification of prey DNA from wolf scat
Authors: Schroeder Hilke , Palczewski Stefanie , Degen Bernd
Published: September 2020

Analysis of wolves dietary is a currently important theme because of the discussion about wolves preying on livestock as sheep or goats. We developed molecular markers to especially amplify the DNA of the prey out of wolf scat. For this purpose, we used the mitochondrial D-Loop using public available sequences for wolf and seven potential prey species (even-toed ungulates). We developed special primers amplifying either the wolves DNA or the prey DNA. In a fragment of 223-225 basepairs (bp) length we identified 21 SNPs, two 1-bp indels and one 3-bp indel, and three microsatellites to separate seven prey species from each other. Validation of the markers was performed by sequencing the PCR products of 12 fresh prey tissues and 20 wolf scat samples using the different primer pairs.
Assessing the Attitude Towards Artificial Intelligence: Introduction of a Short Measure in German, Chinese, and English Language
Authors: Sindermann Cornelia , Sha Peng , Zhou Min , Wernicke Jennifer , Schmitt Helena S. , Li Mei , Sariyska Rayna , Stavrou Maria , Becker Benjamin , Montag Christian
Published: September 2020

In the context of (digital) human–machine interaction, people are increasingly dealing with artificial intelligence in everyday life. Through this, we observe humans who embrace technological advances with a positive attitude. Others, however, are particularly sceptical and claim to foresee substantial problems arising from such uses of technology. The aim of the present study was to introduce a short measure to assess the Attitude Towards Artificial Intelligence (ATAI scale) in the German, Chinese, and English languages. Participants from Germany (N = 461; 345 females), China (N = 413; 145 females), and the UK (N = 84; 65 females) completed the ATAI scale, for which the factorial structure was tested and compared between the samples. Participants from Germany and China were additionally asked about their willingness to interact with/use self-driving cars, Siri, Alexa, the social robot Pepper, and the humanoid robot Erica, which are representatives of popular artificial intelligence products. The results showed that the five-item ATAI scale comprises two negatively associated factors assessing (1) acceptance and (2) fear of artificial intelligence. The factor structure was found to be similar across the German, Chinese, and UK samples. Additionally, the ATAI scale was validated, as the items on the willingness to use specific artificial intelligence products were positively associated with the ATAI Acceptance scale and negatively with the ATAI Fear scale, in both the German and Chinese samples. In conclusion we introduce a short, reliable, and valid measure on the attitude towards artificial intelligence in German, Chinese, and English language.
Development of PCR-based markers and whole-genome selection model for anthracnose resistance in white lupin (Lupinus albus L.)
Authors: Rychel-Bielska Sandra , Nazzicari Nelson , Plewiński Piotr , Bielski Wojciech , Annicchiarico Paolo , Książkiewicz Michał
Published: September 2020

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) is a high-protein grain legume crop, grown since ancient Greece and Rome. Despite long domestication history, its cultivation remains limited, partly because of susceptibility to anthracnose. Only some late-flowering, bitter, low-yielding landraces from Ethiopian mountains displayed resistance to this devastating disease. The resistance is controlled by various genes, thereby complicating the breeding efforts. The objective of this study was developing tools for molecular tracking of Ethiopian resistance genes based on genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data, envisaging linkage mapping and genomic selection approaches. Twenty GBS markers from two major quantitative trait loci (QTLs), antr04_1/antr05_1 and antr04_2/antr05_2, were converted to PCR-based markers using assigned transcriptome sequences. Newly developed markers improved mapping resolution around both anthracnose resistance loci, providing more precise QTL estimation. PCR-based screening of diversified domesticated and primitive germplasm revealed the high specificity of two markers for the antr04_1/antr05_1 locus (TP222136 and TP47110) and one for the antr04_2/antr05_2 locus (TP338761), highlighted by simple matching coefficients of 0.96 and 0.89, respectively. Moreover, a genomic selection approach based on GBS data of a recombinant inbred line mapping population was assessed, providing an average predictive ability of 0.56. These tools can be used for preselection of candidate white lupin germplasm for anthracnose resistance assays.