bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Term Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) After Redo‐Fundoplication
Authors: Kivelä Antti J. , Kauppi Juha , Räsänen Jari , But Anna , Sintonen Harri , Vironen Jaana , Kruuna Olli , Scheinin Tom
Published: January 2021

Background

We aim to shed light on long‐term subjective outcomes after re‐operations for failed fundoplication.

Methods

1809 patients were operated on for hiatal hernia and/or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the Helsinki University Hospital between 2000 and 2017. 111 (6%) of these had undergone a re‐operation for a failed antireflux operation. Overall, HRQoL was assessed in 89 patients at the latest follow‐up using the generic 15D© instrument. The results were compared to a sample of the general population, weighted to reflect the age and gender distribution of patients. Disease‐specific HRQoL was assessed using the GERD‐HRQoL questionnaire. We studied variation in the overall HRQoL with respect to disease‐specific HRQoL and known patients' parameters using univariate and multivariable linear regression models.

Results

The median postoperative follow‐up period was 9.3 years. All patients were operated on laparoscopically (6% conversion rate), and 87% were satisfied with the re‐operation. Postoperative complications were minimal (5%). Twelve patients (11%) underwent a second re‐operation. The median GERD‐HRQoL score was nine. In multivariable analysis, four variables were independently associated with the 15D score, suggesting a decrease in the 15D score with increasing GERD‐HRQoL score, increasing Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the presence of chronic pain syndrome (CPS) and depression.

Conclusion

Re‐do LF is a safe procedure in experienced hands and may offer acceptable long‐term alleviation in patients with recurring symptoms after antireflux surgery. Decreased HRQoL in the long run is related to recurring GERD and co‐morbidities.
Minimierung des Sinterzerfalls mittels DEM
Authors: Denzel Michael , Prenner Michael
Published: January 2021

Um eine ausreichende Durchgasung im Hochofen zu gewährleisten, müssen feinkörnige Einsatzstoffe mithilfe des Sinterprozesses agglomeriert werden. Mechanische Belastungen an Förderanlagen, Kühlern, Sieben und Bunkern zwischen Sinteranlage und Hochofen führen zum teilweisen Zerfall des Sinters. Der dabei entstandene Feinkornanteil (< 5 mm) muss vor der Beschickung des Hochofens ausgesiebt und als Rückgut unter hohem Energieaufwand, Kosten und entsprechenden CO2-Emissionen erneut der Sinteranlage zugeführt werden. Ziel der aktuellen Forschungsarbeit ist die Bereitstellung eines geeigneten Materialmodells, das es ermöglicht, den Zerfall von Hochofensinter während Transport und Lagerung mittels Diskrete Elemente Methode (DEM) vorherzusagen. Dies ermöglicht kritische Bereiche zu optimieren, um den Zerfall zu reduzieren. Dabei wird zuerst die Bruchcharakteristik des Sinters mittels eines eigens entwickelten Prüfstands für Einzelpartikelversuche analysiert. Mit den Versuchsergebnissen wird anschließend ein geeignetes Materialmodell in die DEM implementiert, welches auch in der institutseigenen Versuchsanlage verifiziert werden soll.
The impact of a hospital-based exercise oncology program on cancer treatment–related side effects among rural cancer survivors
Authors: Coletta Adriana M. , Rose Nathan B. , Johnson Austin F. , Moxon D. Scott , Trapp Stephen K. , Walker Darren , White Shelley , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Agarwal Neeraj , Oza Sonal , Zingg Rebecca W. , Hansen Pamela A.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To assess the impact of the Personal Optimism With Exercise Recovery (POWER) program on cancer treatment–related side effects among rural cancer survivors.

Methods

In this retrospective study of data collected between 2016 and 2019, we assessed change in cardiorespiratory fitness, whole-body muscular endurance, physical function and strength, anthropometrics, fatigue, and quality of life (QoL), after participation in POWER. Descriptive statistics were calculated for demographic and clinical variables. Univariate analysis of variance was carried out with age and BMI at initial assessment as covariates.

Results

A total of 239 survivors, 78% rural residents, completed a follow-up assessment. Among rural cancer survivors, the most prevalent cancer sites were breast (42.5%), prostate (12.4%), and lymphoma (5.9%). The majority of survivors were female (70%), non-Hispanic (94.6%), and white (93.5%), with average age and BMI of 62.1 ± 13.2 years and 28.4 ± 6.7 kg/m2, respectively. Rural cancer survivors with cancer stages I–III exhibited significant improvements in fitness (+ 3.07 ml/kg/min, 95% CI 1.93, 4.21; + 0.88 METS, 95% CI 0.55, 1.20), physical function (30-s chair stand: + 2.2 repetitions, 95% CI 1.3, 3.1), muscular endurance (10-repetition maximum: chest press + 4.1 kg, 95% CI 2.0, 6.3; lateral pulldown + 6.6 kg, 95% CI 4.4, 8.9), self-reported fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue score: + 4.9, 95% CI 1.6, 8.1), and QoL (FACT-G7 score + 2.1, 95% CI, 0.9, 3.4). Among stage IV rural and urban cancer survivors, significant improvements were observed in muscular endurance and physical function.

Conclusion

Participation in POWER was associated with attenuation of cancer treatment–related side effects and may serve as a model exercise oncology program for rural cancer survivors.
The importance of livestock grazing at woodland-grassland interface in the conservation of rich oakwood plant communities in temperate Europe
Authors: Wolański Paweł , Bobiec Andrzej , Ortyl Bernadetta , Makuch-Pietraś Iwona , Czarnota Paweł , Ziobro Jan , Korol Mykola , Havryliuk Serhii , Paderewski Jakub , Kirby Keith
Published: January 2021

Traditional husbandry fostered rich semi-open oakwood communities composed of forest and non-forest species. In the eastern Carpathian region, silvo-pastoralism was commonplace by the mid-1900s. This study aimed to determine the state of the preservation of the ecotonal character of grassland-woodland interfaces in formerly pastured cultural landscapes of SE-Polish Carpathian foothills and W-Ukrainian Ciscarpathia in the context of land-use change. In the first region, despite the long-lasting history of forest grazing amongst mainly arable land, the post-WWII collapse of husbandry and the imposed ban on forest grazing, has led to swift development of dense undergrowth and establishment of impermeable ecological woodland-open habitat barrier. As a result, former silvo-pastoral oakwoods developed the features of the Tilio-Carpinentum forest community although some forest species have not yet moved in due to their poor dispersibility. The much younger oakwoods in the Ukrainian study region are remnants of the sparsely treed grasslands, some of which had been ploughed in the mid 20th century. Their semi-open canopy structure, maintained through repetitive grass burning, contributes to the communities ecotonal character, but without regular livestock-led plant “spill-over” from the grassland, the oakwoods remain species-poor. The restoration of species-rich semi-open oak woods requires “unsealing” the forest-grassland interface, reducing the degree of canopy closure, and opening that zone up to extensive grazing—an important seed dispersal vector.
Combining perfusion and angiography with a low-dose cardiac CT technique: a preliminary investigation in a swine model
Authors: Hubbard Logan , Malkasian Shant , Zhao Yixiao , Abbona Pablo , Molloi Sabee
Published: January 2021

Morphological and physiological assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) is necessary for proper stratification of CAD risk. The objective was to evaluate a low-dose cardiac CT technique that combines morphological and physiological assessment of CAD. The low-dose technique was evaluated in twelve swine, where three of the twelve had coronary balloon stenosis. The technique consisted of rest perfusion measurement combined with angiography followed by stress perfusion measurement, where the ratio of stress to rest was used to derive coronary flow reserve (CFR). The technique only required two volume scans for perfusion measurement in mL/min/g; hence, four volume scans were acquired in total; two for rest with angiography and two for stress. All rest, stress, and CFR measurements were compared to a previously validated reference technique that employed 20 consecutive volume scans for rest perfusion measurement combined with angiography, and stress perfusion measurement, respectively. The 32 cm diameter volumetric CT dose index ($${\text{CTDI}}_{\text{vol}}^{32}$$

CTDI

vol

32

) and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) of the low-dose technique were also recorded. All low-dose perfusion measurements (PLOW) in mL/min/g were related to reference perfusion measurements (PREF) through regression by PLOW = 1.04 PREF − 0.08 (r = 0.94, RMSE = 0.32 mL/min/g). The $${\text{CTDI}}_{\text{vol}}^{32}$$

CTDI

vol

32

and SSDE of the low-dose cardiac CT technique were 8.05 mGy and 12.80 mGy respectively, corresponding to an estimated effective dose and size-specific effective dose of 1.8 and 2.87 mSv, respectively. Combined morphological and physiological assessment of coronary artery disease is feasible using a low-dose cardiac CT technique.
New tools for old problems — comparing drone- and field-based assessments of a problematic plant species
Authors: Oldeland Jens , Revermann Rasmus , Luther-Mosebach Jona , Buttschardt Tillmann , Lehmann Jan R. K.
Published: January 2021

Plant species that negatively affect their environment by encroachment require constant management and monitoring through field surveys. Drones have been suggested to support field surveyors allowing more accurate mapping with just-in-time aerial imagery. Furthermore, object-based image analysis tools could increase the accuracy of species maps. However, only few studies compare species distribution maps resulting from traditional field surveys and object-based image analysis using drone imagery. We acquired drone imagery for a saltmarsh area (18 ha) on the Hallig Nordstrandischmoor (Germany) with patches of Elymus athericus, a tall grass which encroaches higher parts of saltmarshes. A field survey was conducted afterwards using the drone orthoimagery as a baseline. We used object-based image analysis (OBIA) to segment CIR imagery into polygons which were classified into eight land cover classes. Finally, we compared polygons of the field-based and OBIA-based maps visually and for location, area, and overlap before and after post-processing. OBIA-based classification yielded good results (kappa = 0.937) and agreed in general with the field-based maps (field = 6.29 ha, drone = 6.22 ha with E. athericus dominance). Post-processing revealed 0.31 ha of misclassified polygons, which were often related to water runnels or shadows, leaving 5.91 ha of E. athericus cover. Overlap of both polygon maps was only 70% resulting from many small patches identified where E. athericus was absent. In sum, drones can greatly support field surveys in monitoring of plant species by allowing for accurate species maps and just-in-time captured very-high-resolution imagery.
An improved window of interest for electroanatomical mapping of atrial tachycardia
Authors: Mechulan Alexis , Bun Sok-Sithikun , Masse Alexandre , Peret Angélique , Leong-Feng Lauriane , Pons Frederic , Bouharaoua Ahmed , Dieuzaide Pierre , Prévot Sébastien
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Diagnosis of atrial tachycardia (AT) with 3D mapping system remains challenging due to fibrosis or previous ablation. This study aims to evaluate a new electroanatomical mapping annotation setting using a window of interest adjusted at the end of the P wave (WOIp wave) to identify the AT mechanism more accurately.

Methods

Twenty patients with successful ablation of left AT using navigation system CARTO3 were evaluated. Two maps for each patient were generated offline using either conventional settings of WOI (WOIconv.) or WOIp wave. Three investigators from two centres analysed the maps blindly.

Results

Mechanisms of AT were macroreentrant in 14/20 patients (70%) and focal in 6/20 (30%). WOIp wave resulted in a significant increase in the percentage of correct identification of the mechanism based on mapping alone (93.3 ± 13.7% vs 58.3 ± 33.9%; p = 0.0003) compared with WOIconv.. Diagnoses based on mapping were arrived at faster (27.8 ± 16.4 s vs 38.97 ± 13.64 s, respectively; p = 0.0231) and with a greater confidence in the diagnosis (confidence index 2.57 ± 0.45 vs 2.12 ± 0.45, respectively; p = 0.0024). With perimitral re-entry specifically “early meets late” was closer to the anatomical region of the mitral isthmus (15.9 ± 20.9 mm vs 48.77 ± 23.23 mm, respectively; p = 0.0028).

Conclusions

This study found that electroanatomical mapping acquisition with a window of interest set at the end of the P wave improves the ability to diagnose the arrhythmia mechanism based on the initial map. It is particularly beneficial in identifying area of interest for ablation in perimitral AT.
Efficient production of a functional G protein-coupled receptor in E. coli for structural studies
Authors: Abiko Layara Akemi , Rogowski Marco , Gautier Antoine , Schertler Gebhard , Grzesiek Stephan
Published: January 2021

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are transmembrane signal transducers which regulate many key physiological process. Since their discovery, their analysis has been limited by difficulties in obtaining sufficient amounts of the receptors in high-quality, functional form from heterologous expression hosts. Albeit highly attractive because of its simplicity and the ease of isotope labeling for NMR studies, heterologous expression of functional GPCRs in E. coli has proven particularly challenging due to the absence of the more evolved protein expression and folding machinery of higher eukaryotic hosts. Here we first give an overview on the previous strategies for GPCR E. coli expression and then describe the development of an optimized robust protocol for the E. coli expression and purification of two mutants of the turkey β1-adrenergic receptor (β1AR) uniformly or selectively labeled in 15N or 2H,15N. These mutants had been previously optimized for thermal stability using insect cell expression and used successfully in crystallographic and NMR studies. The same sequences were then used for E. coli expression. Optimization of E. coli expression was achieved by a quantitative analysis of losses of receptor material at each step of the solubilization and purification procedure. Final yields are 0.2–0.3 mg receptor per liter culture. Whereas both expressed mutants are well folded and competent for orthosteric ligand binding, the less stable YY-β1AR mutant also comprises the two native tyrosines Y5.58 and Y7.53, which enable G protein binding. High-quality 1H-15N TROSY spectra were obtained for E. coli-expressed YY-β1AR in three different functional states (antagonist, agonist, and agonist + G protein-mimicking nanobody-bound), which are identical to spectra obtained of the same forms of the receptor expressed in insect cells. NdeI and AgeI restriction sites introduced into the expression plasmid allow for the easy replacement of the receptor gene by other GPCR genes of interest, and the provided quantitative workflow analysis may guide the respective adaptation of the purification protocol.
Polymerization of l-lactide with SnCl2: A Low Toxic and Eco-friendly Catalyst
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Weidner Steffen M.
Published: January 2021

Polymerizations of l-lactide catalyzed either by neat SnCl2 or by SnCl2 + difunctional cocatalysts were conducted in bulk at 180, 160 and 140 °C with variation of the Lac/Cat ratio and time. With neat SnCl2 poly(L-lactide) having weight average molecular weights (uncorrected Mw’s) up to 190 000 g mol−1 were obtained mainly consisting of linear chains. Addition of salicylic acid or 1,1-bisphenol yielded a higher fraction of cyclic polylactides but lower molecular weights. Furthermore, SnCl2 was compared with Bu2SnCl2 and various other metal chlorides and the best results were obtained with SnCl2. With ethyl L-lactate as initiator SnCl2-catalyzed ROPs were performed at 120 °C and the lac/initiator ratio was varied. All these experiments were conducted under conditions allowing for comparison with ROPs catalyzed with neat Sn(II)-2-ethyhexanoate. Such a comparison was also performed with ε-caprolactone as monomer.
Scientist or Entrepreneur? Identity centrality, university entrepreneurial mission, and academic entrepreneurial intention
Authors: Wang Miao , Soetanto Danny , Cai Jianfeng , Munir Hina
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between identity centrality and entrepreneurial intention. Based on a survey of 275 academic scientists from 14 Chinese universities, the results show that entrepreneurial identity centrality positively influences the intention to engage in research commercialisation activities, such as spin-off creation, patenting and licensing, contracting research and consulting. We also found that the conflict between entrepreneurial and scientific identity centrality is less problematic than expected in the literature. In fact, the interaction between both identity centralities strengthens academics scientists’ intention to involve in academic entrepreneurship. Concerning the influence of institutional factor on academic entrepreneurship, the finding confirms that university entrepreneurial mission moderates the relationship between both identity centralities and the intention to establish spin-offs. Finally, this paper provides insights for academic entrepreneurship in China and practical recommendation for policy makers.
A note on slack enforcement mechanisms for self-suspending tasks
Authors: Günzel Mario , Chen Jian-Jia
Published: January 2021

This paper provides counterexamples for the slack enforcement mechanisms to handle segmented self-suspending real-time tasks by Lakshmanan and Rajkumar (Proceedings of the Real-Time and Embedded Technology and Applications Symposium (RTAS), pp 3–12, 2010).
Potentially Inappropriately Prescribed Medications Among Medicare Medication Therapy Management Eligible Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: an Observational Analysis
Authors: Silva-Almodóvar Armando , Hackim Edward , Wolk Hailey , Nahata Milap C.
Published: January 2021

Background

Potentially inappropriately prescribed medications (PIPMs) among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may vary among clinical settings. Rates of PIPM are unknown among Medicare-enrolled Medication Therapy Management (MTM) eligible patients.

Objectives

Determine prevalence of PIPM among patients with CKD and evaluate characteristics of patients and providers associated with PIPM.

Design

An observational cross-sectional investigation of a Medicare insurance plan for the year 2018.

Patients

Medicare-enrolled MTM eligible patients with stage 3–5 CKD.

Main Measures

PIPM was identified utilizing a tertiary database. Logistic regression assessed relationship between patient characteristics and PIPM.

Key Results

Investigation included 3624 CKD patients: 2856 (79%), 548 (15%), and 220 (6%) patients with stage 3, 4, and 5 CKD, respectively. Among patients with stage 3, stage 4, and stage 5 CKD, 618, 430, and 151 were with at least one PIPM, respectively. Logistic regression revealed patients with stage 4 or 5 CKD had 7–14 times the odds of having a PIPM in comparison to patients with stage 3 disease (p < 0.001). Regression also found PIPM was associated with increasing number of years qualified for MTM (odds ratio (OR) 1.46–1.74, p ≤ 0.005), female gender (OR 1.25, p = 0.008), and increasing polypharmacy (OR 1.30–1.57, p ≤ 0.01). Approximately 14% of all medications (2879/21093) were considered PIPM. Majority of PIPMs (62%) were prescribed by physician primary care providers (PCPs). Medications with the greatest percentage of PIPM were spironolactone, canagliflozin, sitagliptin, levetiracetam, alendronate, pregabalin, pravastatin, fenofibrate, metformin, gabapentin, famotidine, celecoxib, naproxen, meloxicam, rosuvastatin, diclofenac, and ibuprofen.

Conclusion

Over one-third of Medicare MTM eligible patients with CKD presented with at least one PIPM. Worsening renal function, length of MTM eligibility, female gender, and polypharmacy were associated with having PIPM. Majority of PIPMs were prescribed by PCPs. Clinical decision support tools may be considered to potentially reduce PIPM among Medicare MTM–enrolled patients with CKD.
Digital innovation management for entrepreneurial ecosystems: services and functionalities as drivers of innovation management software adoption
Authors: Endres Herbert , Huesig Stefan , Pesch Robin
Published: January 2021

Innovation Management Software can promote Entrepreneurial Ecosystems by consolidating an organization’s innovation programs, stakeholders, and resources in one place. In this study, we highlighted the digitalization of innovation processes. We focus particularly on the factors influencing the adoption of a specific class of software tools called Innovation Management Software (IMS) or Digital Innovation Management System to support innovation management methods and activities. Specifically, we address the two questions (a) which specific functionality drives the adoption of IMS tools, and (b) which services of IMS providers are valuable in supporting the adoption of IMS by organizations aiming to digitalize their innovation processes. By using an online questionnaire, we gathered survey data from 199 innovation managers of German firms. We used regression analysis to test our hypotheses. While the overall IMS adoption is considered to positively affect the new product development (NPD) efficiency, our results indicate that especially idea management functionalities and services for updates and upgrades improve the IMS adoption. Surprisingly, offering complementary consulting services together with IMS offerings to support the digitalization of innovation processes reduces the likelihood of IMS adoption. These findings are important for managers, consultants, and developers in order to choose and leverage the right options for improving the adoption of IT tools in the NPD process and therefore increase NPD performance and thus also promote Entrepreneurial Ecosystems.
Analysis of clinical and genetic characteristics of Chinese children with congenital hyperinsulinemia that is spontaneously relieved
Authors: Xu Zi-di , Hui Pei-pei , Zhang Wei , Zeng Qiao , Zhang Lin , Liu Min , Yan Jie , Wu Yu-jun , Sang Yan-mei
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the clinical and genetic characteristics of Chinese children with congenital hyperinsulinemia (CHI) that is spontaneously relieved.

Methods

The patient group comprised 200 children with CHI that were treated at the Beijing Children’s Hospital from January 2006 to December 2018. The patients were divided into two groups according to their prognosis: the spontaneous remission group (n = 92) and the nonspontaneous remission group (n = 108). The clinical characteristics, pathogenic genes, diagnosis and treatment process, and follow-up data of both groups were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Of the 200 children with CHI, 92 achieved spontaneous remission. The age of spontaneous remission was between one month and nine years, and 47 of the children were relieved before the age of one year. The median age of onset was 85 days (range: 1–2825 days) in the spontaneous remission group and 2 days (range: 1–210 days) in the nonspontaneous remission group (P < 0.05). The mean birth weight was 3.44 ± 0.76 kg for the spontaneous remission group and 3.95 ± 0.75 kg for the nonspontaneous remission group (P < 0.05). Of the 92 children in the spontaneous remission group, 65 were treated with diazoxide with effective rate of 81.5% (53/65). In 12 cases in which diazoxide treatment failed, octreotide was used with an effective rate of 83.3% (10/12). Of the 108 children in the nonspontaneous remission group, 88 were treated with diazoxide with an effective rate of 43.2 % (38/88), and 29 children were treated with octreotide with an effective rate of 48.28% (14/29). Of the 30 children in the spontaneous remission group that underwent mutation analysis of CHI-related pathogenic genes, 10 children (10/30, 33.3%) carried mutations. Of the 48 children in the nonspontaneous remission group that underwent mutation analysis of CHI-related pathogenic genes, 37 children (37/48, 77.1%) were found to carry mutations. All of the differences in the indices mentioned above were statistically significant.

Conclusions

The rate of spontaneous remission of CHI was significantly higher in children with late age of CHI onset, light birth weight, effective diazoxide treatment, and no common pathogenic gene mutations. Spontaneous remission was also possible for a small number of children that carried mutations in the ABCC and KCNJ11 genes and in whom diazoxide treatment failed.
Olfactory Neuroblastoma of the Sinonasal Tract with Prominent Orbital Protrusion: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chen Lin , Wang Jingxin , Yang Zhigang , Guo Yingkun
Published: January 2021

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare malignant neuroectodermal tumor of the nasal cavity. Olfactory neuroblastoma centered in the posterior right orbit with prominent orbital protrusion is even rare. Grading ONB is extremely important as individualized treatment plans must be formulated according to tumor grade. We report the case of a 67-year-old female who presented with the chief complaints of persistent nasal congestion with intermittent epistaxis and unilateral proptosis over the past five years. Radiological imaging was suggestive of a large heterogeneous mass in the right superior nasal cavity with extensions into the right medial orbit, nasopharynx, the right maxillary sinus, the anterior cranial fossa, right ethmoidal, frontal and bilateral sphenoidal sinuses, as well as into the right frontal lobe. Assessment of the radiologic features revealed the diagnostic possibility of olfactory neuroblastoma. A nasopharyngeal biopsy confirmed an olfactory neuroblastoma. Frontal osteoplastic craniotomy and excision of the intracranial part of the tumor from above and transnasal endoscopic removal of the mass in the nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses and right medial orbit from below was done. Evaluation of histopathological characteristics and immunohistochemical findings revealed a diagnosis of WHO grade IV olfactory neuroblastoma. Because of poor economic condition, the patient did not take adjuvant radiotherapy and chemoradiation and post-operative examination. We report a huge ONB centered in the posterior right orbit with prominent orbital protrusion. Magnetic resonance image and computed tomography are helpful for evaluating the appearance and the extent of ONB, as well as grading this tumor, which may aid therapeutic decisions and improve survival.
Survival and Inactivation by Advanced Oxidative Process of Foodborne Viruses in Model Low-Moisture Foods
Authors: Nasheri Neda , Harlow Jennifer , Chen Angela , Corneau Nathalie , Bidawid Sabah
Published: January 2021

Enteric viruses, such as human norovirus (NoV) and hepatitis A virus (HAV), are the major causes of foodborne illnesses worldwide. These viruses have low infectious dose, and may remain infectious for weeks in the environment and food. Limited information is available regarding viral survival and transmission in low-moisture foods (LMF). LMFs are generally considered as ready-to-eat products, which undergo no or minimal pathogen reduction steps. However, numerous foodborne viral outbreaks associated with LMFs have been reported in recent years. The objective of this study was to examine the survival of foodborne viruses in LMFs during 4-week storage at ambient temperature and to evaluate the efficacy of advanced oxidative process (AOP) treatment in the inactivation of these viruses. For this purpose, select LMFs such as pistachios, chocolate, and cereal were inoculated with HAV and the norovirus surrogates, murine norovirus (MNV) and feline calicivirus (FCV), then viral survival on these food matrices was measured over a four-week incubation at ambient temperature, by both plaque assay and droplet-digital RT-PCR (ddRT-PCR) using the modified ISO-15216 method as well as the magnetic bead assay for viral recovery. We observed an approximately 0.5 log reduction in viral genome copies, and 1 log reduction in viral infectivity for all three tested viruses following storage of select inoculated LMFs for 4 weeks. Therefore, the present study shows that the examined foodborne viruses can persist for a long time in LMFs. Next, we examined the inactivation efficacy of AOP treatment, which combines UV-C, ozone, and hydrogen peroxide vapor, and observed that while approximately 100% (4 log) inactivation can be achieved for FCV, and MNV in chocolate, the inactivation efficiency diminishes to approximately 90% (1 log) in pistachios and 70% (< 1 log) in cereal. AOP treatment could therefore be a good candidate for risk reduction of foodborne viruses from certain LMFs depending on the food matrix and surface of treatment.
Goal-Directed Exploration for Learning Vowels and Syllables: A Computational Model of Speech Acquisition
Authors: Philippsen Anja
Published: January 2021

Infants learn to speak rapidly during their first years of life, gradually improving from simple vowel-like sounds to larger consonant-vowel complexes. Learning to control their vocal tract in order to produce meaningful speech sounds is a complex process which requires to learn the relationship between motor and sensory processes. In this paper, a computational framework is proposed that models the problem of learning articulatory control for a physiologically plausible 3-D vocal tract model using a developmentally-inspired approach. The system babbles and explores efficiently in a low-dimensional space of goals that are relevant to the learner in its synthetic environment. The learning process is goal-directed and self-organized, and yields an inverse model of the mapping between sensory space and motor commands. This study provides a unified framework that can be used for learning static as well as dynamic motor representations. The successful learning of vowel and syllable sounds as well as the benefit of active and adaptive learning strategies are demonstrated. Categorical perception is found in the acquired models, suggesting that the framework has the potential to replicate phenomena of human speech acquisition.
Extreme Climate and Absence from Work: Evidence from Jamaica
Authors: Spencer Nekeisha , Urquhart Mikhail-Ann
Published: January 2021

This study investigated the impact of extreme climate events on work absence in Jamaica. To this end, we constructed a quarterly individual level dataset on labor market and climatic data for 2004–2014. We find that while excess rainfall increases the odds of being temporarily absent from work, heat is unlikely to have an effect. The estimated outcome of excess rainfall is reasonable given the possibility of flooded roads, which can impede travel to work. This draws attention to the development of e-commuting policies to mitigate any negative effects on productivity.
Do opposite ends of same factors underlie life satisfaction vs. depressive symptoms among older people?
Authors: Pynnönen Katja , Kokko Katja , Saajanaho Milla , Törmäkangas Timo , Portegijs Erja , Rantanen Taina
Published: January 2021

Background

Although depressive symptoms are more common among older than younger age groups, life satisfaction tends to remain stable over the life course, possibly because the underlying factors or processes differ.

Aim

To study whether the factors that increase the likelihood of high life satisfaction also decrease the likelihood of depressive symptoms among older people.

Methods

The data were a population-based probability sample drawn from community-dwelling people aged 75, 80, and 85 years (n = 1021). Participants’ life satisfaction was measured with the Satisfaction with Life Scale and depressive symptoms with the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Physical performance, perceived financial situation, executive functions, loneliness, self-acceptance, and having interests in one’s life were studied as explanatory variables. The data were analyzed using cross-sectional bivariate linear modeling.

Results

Better physical performance, not perceiving loneliness, having special interests in one’s life, and higher self-acceptance were associated with higher life satisfaction and fewer depressive symptoms. Better financial situation was related only to life satisfaction. Executive functions were not associated with either of the outcomes.

Discussion

The opposite ends of the same factors underlie positive and negative dimensions of mental well-being.

Conclusion

Further studies are warranted to better understand how people maintain life satisfaction with aging when many resources may diminish and depressive symptoms become more prevalent.
Direct observation of the impact of water droplets on oil replenishment in EHD lubricated contacts
Authors: Liu Xiang , Wang Jintao , Huang Lu , Zhang Jingyue , Xu Changhong , Tong Lin , Guo Dan
Published: January 2021

Water is one of the most significant causes of lubrication failure. There is little research on the direct observation of the impact of water on lubrication properties. In this study, the influence of water on oil replenishment under different elastohydrodynamic (EHD) lubricating conditions is evaluated using optical interferometry and infrared microscopy, and a dimensionless criterion when water influences the film thickness is proposed. Evidence shows that the scour displacing effect and emulsification of water/oil are the main reasons for the reduction in film thickness. Once a water droplet enters an oil reservoir around the critical contact zone, it hardly moves away. This aggravates starvation, reduces the center film thickness of the contact, and leads to lubrication failure of the mechanical components.
Multi-attribute group decision-making process based on possibility degree and operators for intuitionistic multiplicative set
Authors: Garg Harish
Published: January 2021

This paper aims to present a novel multiple attribute group decision-making process under the intuitionistic multiplicative preference set environment. In it, Saaty’s 1/9-9 scale is used to express the imprecise information which is asymmetrical distribution about 1. To achieve it, the present work is divided into three folds. First, a concept of connection number-based intuitionistic multiplicative set (CN-IMS) is formulated by considering three degrees namely “identity”, “contrary”, and “discrepancy” of the set and study their features. Second, to rank the given number, we define a novel possibility degree measure which compute the degree of possibility within the given objects. Finally, several aggregation operators on the pairs of the given numbers are designed and investigated their fundamental inequalities and relations. To explain the presented measures and operators, a group decision-making approach is promoted to solve the problems with uncertain information and illustrated with several examples. The advantages, comparative, as well as perfection analysis of the proposed framework are furnished to confirm the approach.
Objective Rating of the Launch Behavior of Conventional, Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Dorsch Christian , Wang Xiao , Küçükay Ferit
Published: January 2021

The calibration of conventional, hybrid and electric drivetrains is an important process during the development phase of any vehicle. Therefore, to optimize the comfort and dynamic behavior (known as driveability), many test drives are performed by experienced drivers during different driving maneuvers, e.g., launch, re-launch or gear shift. However, the process can be kept more consistent and independent of human-based deviations by using objective ratings. This study first introduces an objective rating system developed for the launch behavior of conventional vehicles with automatic transmission, dual-clutch transmission, and alternative drivetrains. Then, the launch behavior, namely comfort and dynamic quality, is compared between two conventional vehicles, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and a battery electric vehicle. Results show the benefits of pure electric drivetrains due to the lack of launch and shifting elements, as well as the usage of a highly dynamic electric motor. While the plug-in hybrid achieves a 10% higher overall rating compared to the baseline conventional vehicle, the pure electric vehicle even achieves a 21% higher overall rating. The results also highlight the optimization potential of battery electric vehicles regarding their comfort and dynamic characteristics. The transitions and the gradient of the acceleration build-up have a major influence on the launch quality.
Finite element modelling of interlocking stabilized laterite soil block walls
Authors: Fundi Sanewu Isaac , Kaluli James Wambua , Kinuthia John
Published: January 2021

This study sought to use the stress–strain relationship of interlocking stabilized soil block (ISSB) masonry to model its behaviour and develop empirical formulae to aid in predicting its compressive strength. A finite element (FE) analysis adopting the Rankine failure criterion was performed using Abaqus software to simulate the deformability behaviour of the wall which was validated through experimental tests. The compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and density of ISSB defined in the FE model were determined by performing laboratory tests on laterite soil blocks stabilized with pozzolanic cement, hydrated lime and rice husk ash. Conversely, the predictive empirical formulae for the compressive strength of the ISSB masonry was developed by performing statistical multiple regression analysis. In addition to the mechanical properties of masonry, the FE simulation results indicated that the deformability behaviour of ISSB masonry is influenced by the type of stabilizer used on the target material. This dictated the stress distribution and vertical displacement on the masonry. A diagonally stepped failure mode was experienced in more brittle masonry while cone failure mode was observed in less brittle masonry assemblage.
Insight into the adsorption kinetics, mechanism, and thermodynamics of methylene blue from aqueous solution onto pectin-alginate-titania composite microparticles
Authors: Zamri Nur Izzah Iwanina , Zulmajdi Siti Lailatul N. , Daud Nur Zafirah A. , Mahadi Abdul Hanif , Kusrini Eny , Usman Anwar
Published: January 2021

In the present study, pectin-alginate-titania (PAT) composites were synthesized and the adsorptive removal behavior of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution, as a model of synthetic organic effluents, onto the prepared PAT composites were investigated by monitoring the effect of contact time, initial MB concentration, and temperature. The adsorption isotherm data were fitted well with the Freundlich isotherm model, suggesting the surface heterogeneity of the PAT composites and that the MB adsorption occurred on the active sites on multilayer surface of the composites. The adsorption kinetics of MB was demonstrated to be pseudo-second order, governed by two intraparticle diffusion rates, and the adsorption process was exothermic, spontaneous, and more disorder. The Langmuir isotherm model suggested that the maximum adsorption capacity of MB on the PAT composites was in the range of 435–637 mg g–1. In general, it increased with the TiO2 NPs content in the PAT composites, due most likely to the increase in surface area exposing more functional groups of the pectin and alginate to interact with the synthetic dye. The adsorptive removal of MB by the PAT composites was found to be more efficient compared with many other reported adsorbents, such as graphene oxide hybrids, pectin microspheres, magnetite-silica-pectin composites, clay-based materials, chemically treated minerals, and agricultural waste. The present study therefore demonstrated for the first time that PAT composites are not only promising to be utilized as an adsorbent in wastewater treatment, but also provide an insight into the adsorption mechanism of the synthetic dyes onto the biopolymers-titania composites.

Graphic abstract

Insight into the adsorption kinetics, mechanism, and thermodynamics of methylene blue from aqueous solution onto pectin-alginate-titania composite microparticles.
Analysis of gravity and aeromagnetic data to determine structural trend and basement depth beneath the Ajdabiya Trough in northeastern Libya
Authors: Eshanibli Abdelhakim S. , Osagie Abel Uyimwen , Ismail Nur Azwin , Ghanush Hussin B.
Published: January 2021

In this study, we analyse both ground gravity and aeromagnetic data in order to delineate structural trends, fault systems and deduce sedimentary thicknesses within the Ajdabiya Trough in Libya’s northeast. A high-pass filter and a reduced-to-the-pole (RTP) transformation are applied to the gravity and aeromagnetic data respectively. Different filters are used to enhance the structural signatures and fault trends within the study area. The Werner deconvolution and source parameter imaging (SPI) techniques are applied to the RTP magnetic data for source depth estimation. Four well-data within the area are used as constraints in the two-dimensional forward modelling process. The results show that the Ajdabiya Trough is characterised by gravity anomaly highs and magnetic anomaly lows. The analysis of gravity data shows predominant Northeast–Southwest structural trends, whereas the analysis of magnetic data shows predominant North–South magnetic lineaments within the Ajdabiya Trough. The Euler deconvolution depth estimates of faults depths range between 1500 and 9500 m. The SPI estimates of the magnetic basement range between 2500 and 11,500 m beneath the study area (deepest beneath the Ajdabiya Trough). Constrained by the well-data, six major layers characterize the four profiles that are taken within the area. One of the profiles shows a high-density intrusion (about 4 km from the surface) within the sedimentary sequence. The intrusion may be the result of the rifting Sirt Basin which caused a weakening of the crust to allow for mantle intrusion.
The Battle of the Bard
Authors: Jensen Michael P.
Published: January 2021

Difficult as it is to imagine today, in 1937 America's two leading media companies fought over the right to perform Shakespeare for an American radio audience in an attempt to bring prestige to their networks. The resulting fourteen broadcasts are among the more remarkable recreations of Shakespeare of their time. This lively and engaging book shows the cultural dominance of radio in the 1930s, and tells the story of why the networks each wanted to lord Shakespeare's prestige over the other, how they put their series together, the critical reception, and the cultural impact and legacies of the broadcasts.
A basic human values approach to migration policy communication
Authors: Dennison James
Published: January 2021

This article considers what types of strategic communication messaging regarding migration policy are likely to be more or less effective. To do so, the article summarizes the literature to, first, note the broadly postulated effectiveness of value-based messaging and, second, note how underdefined this concept remains. To overcome this shortcoming, I introduce Schwarz’s psychological theory of “basic human values” and use European Social Survey data to visualize the relationship between these values and attitudes to immigration. I argue that messaging with a value-basis that is concordant with that of its audience is more likely to elicit sympathy, whereas that which is discordant with the values of its audience is more likely to elicit antipathy. Given the value-balanced orientations of those with moderate attitudes to immigration, persuasive migration messaging should attempt to mobilize values of its opposition; that is pro-migration messaging should mobilize Schwarz’s values of conformity, tradition, security, and power, whereas anti-migration messaging should mobilize values of universalism, benevolence, self-direction, and stimulation. I then turn to an inventory of 135 migration communication campaigns provided by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development. I show that few pro-migration campaigns contained value-based messaging, whereas all anti-migration campaigns did. Similarly, very few pro-migration campaigns included values besides “universalism” and “benevolence,” whereas anti-migration campaigns included values associated with both pro- and anti-migration attitudes. I visually demonstrate examples of each case before discussing ramifications for policy communication.
HPLSE editorial tribute to Professor David Neely
Authors: Danson Colin , McKenna Paul
Published: January 2021

David Neely was an internationally recognised scientist who formed collaborations and friendships across the world. His passion for his work always shone through. He always made time for early-career scientists and became a mentor and supervisor to many. He was an active Editorial Board Member of the international journal High Power Laser Science and Engineering. Sadly, David was taken from us much too early. In this Editorial we pay tribute to his work through his publications in the journal.
The aloneness argument against classical theism
Authors: SCHMID JOSEPH C. , MULLINS R. T.
Published: January 2021

We argue that there is a conflict among classical theism's commitments to divine simplicity, divine creative freedom, and omniscience. We start by defining key terms for the debate related to classical theism. Then we articulate a new argument, the Aloneness Argument, aiming to establish a conflict among these attributes. In broad outline, the argument proceeds as follows. Under classical theism, it's possible that God exists without anything apart from Him. Any knowledge God has in such a world would be wholly intrinsic. But there are contingent truths in every world, including the world in which God exists alone. So, it's possible that God (given His omniscience) contingently has wholly intrinsic knowledge. But whatever is contingent and wholly intrinsic is an accident. So, God possibly has an accident. This is incompatible with classical theism. Finally, we consider and rebut several objections.
Permutations with equal orders
Authors: Acan Huseyin , Burnette Charles , Eberhard Sean , Schmutz Eric , Thomas James
Published: January 2021

Let${\mathbb{P}}(ord\pi = ord\pi ')$be the probability that two independent, uniformly random permutations of [n] have the same order. Answering a question of Thibault Godin, we prove that${\mathbb{P}}(ord\pi = ord\pi ') = {n^{ - 2 + o(1)}}$and that${\mathbb{P}}(ord\pi = ord\pi ') \ge {1 \over 2}{n^{ - 2}}lg*n$for infinitely manyn. (Herelg*nis the height of the tallest tower of twos that is less than or equal ton.)
Religion, Populism, and the Politics of the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Haustein Jörg , Tomalin Emma
Published: January 2021

This article examines the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework as a political project in tension with its universal and multilateral aspirations to serve as a counterbalance to narrow populist visions increasingly dominating global politics. Building upon Laclau and Mouffe’s theory of populism and their notion of ‘radical democracy’, we conceptualise the SDGs as a struggle for hegemony and in competition with other styles of politics, over what counts as ‘development’. This hegemonial struggle plays out in the attempts to form political constituencies behind developmental slogans, and it is here that religious actors come to the fore, given their already established role in organising communities, expressing values and aspirations, and articulating visions of the future. Examining how the SDG process has engaged with faith actors in India and Ethiopia, as well as how the Indian and Ethiopian states have engaged with religion in defining development, we argue that a ‘radical democracy’ of sustainable development requires a more intentional effort at integrating religious actors in the implementation of the SDGs.