bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency evaluation of the pension funds: Evidence from India
Authors: Siddiqui Shoaib Alam
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this article is to investigate the technical efficiency of Indian pension funds using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and to assess the reasons of inefficiency if any. This article analyzes the efficiency performance of all the pension funds available to Indian subscribers from the year 2015–2019 using radial measurers (BCC) of DEA based on secondary data collected from the annual reports of New Pension System Trust. Findings indicate that the average efficiency of Indian pension funds was 75.38% and this sector experienced overall stability in the average efficiency levels during the study period. Almost 40% of the pension funds operated efficiently in one or more years during the study period. The minimum slack was found in the input “expense ratio.” This confirms that risk associated with investments is the cause of inefficiency and not the expense ratio in the Indian pension sector. Tobit regression is applied to explore the main drivers of efficiency in the India pension funds. The study finds that fund size has positive association with the efficiency of the pension funds. Public sector funds were more efficient than the private sector funds. This study is first of its kind that has assessed the efficiency of Indian pension funds. The study brings into light the operating characteristics and efficiencies of the Indian pension funds for the period 2015–2019 and therefore holds important insights for policy makers, practitioners, and decision‐makers.
Do Physicians Warm Up to Higher Medicare Prices? Evidence from Alaska
Authors: Chen Alice J. , Munnich Elizabeth L. , Parente Stephen T. , Richards Michael R.
Published: December 2021

Medicare is a roughly $700 billion public program, with physician payments representing one of its largest expenditures. Medicare's prices are also administratively set, which leaves the structure of payment changes subject to a political process that may introduce idiosyncratic features and even perverse incentives. At the same time, physician responses to changes in Medicare reimbursements are likely to vary according to the policy's duration, scope, and size. We study a setting where broad federal laws contained specific provisions that financially benefit a narrow group: Alaskan physicians. The geographically targeted payment reforms were also unique along key dimensions. Using difference‐in‐differences strategies, we find that large, temporary price changes increase spending but elicit no detectable supply response. Conversely, generous and permanent price shocks induce greater service flows but not uniformly across specialties. Our findings suggest that Congress may engage in fiscally inefficient Medicare spending to accomplish other legislative objectives.
A Hilbert space framework for sensitivity filtering and vertex morphing
Authors: Rosandi Rozan , Simeon Bernd
Published: December 2021

A common problem in structural optimization is the formation of checkerboard patterns due to numerical instabilities. One way to mitigate it is to consider regularization techniques such as the application of a smoothing filter during the optimization procedure. This approach leads to what is now called sensitivity filtering, which has become a popular method in the engineering community due to easy implementation and applicability to large‐scale optimization problems. However, the method suffers from a lack of mathematical foundation and theoretical justification [1,2].

In an attempt to merge sensitivity filtering into the standard optimization technology, a framework for sensitivity filtering in conjunction with mesh‐free methods and node‐based optimization was developed in [3]. The resulting method is referred to as vertex morphing. Intermediate design iterations of the method exhibit certain desirable properties, depending on the choice of filter radius, such as the attenuation of high‐frequency modes and the preservation of tiny details in the initial design. Since they can be seen as valid design choices, the method is usually stopped before convergence.

In this contribution, we provide a mathematical foundation for the vertex morphing method and establish a connection with known regularization techniques. We consider design variables as fields defined on some domain D ⊆ ℝd that can be written as

urn:x-wiley:16177061:media:PAMM202100258:pamm202100258-math-0001

where k ∈ L2 (D × D) is an integral kernel and p ∈ L2 (D) is the control variable. With this formulation, the so‐called filtering rules, which form the basis for the design update rules, can be derived rigorously. To analyze the behavior of the method, we regard the linear least squares problem and show that the intermediate results correspond to some regularized solution to the problem. A comparison between the vertex morphing method and other regularization techniques is made for the linear least squares problem and the compliance minimization of a thin shell structure, which is based on the assumed natural deviatoric strain (ANDES) formulation [4].
Benign prostatic hyperplasia/obstruction ameliorated using a soluble guanylate cyclase activator
Authors: Zabbarova Irina V , Ikeda Youko , Kozlowski Mark G , Tyagi Pradeep , Birder Lori A , Chakrabarty Basu , Perera Subashan KPG , Dhir Rajiv , Straub Adam C , Sandner Peter , Andersson Karl‐Erik , Drake Marcus J , Fry Christopher H , Kanai Anthony J
Published: December 2021

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a feature of ageing males. Up to half demonstrate bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) with associated lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) including bladder overactivity. Current therapies to reduce obstruction, such as α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists and 5α‐reductase inhibitors, are not effective in all patients. The phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitor (PDE5I) tadalafil is also approved to treat BPH and LUTS, suggesting a role for nitric oxide (NO•), soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), and cGMP signalling pathways. However, PDE5I refractoriness can develop for reasons including nitrergic nerve damage and decreased NO• production, or inflammation‐related oxidation of the sGC haem group, normally maintained in a reduced state by the cofactor cytochrome‐b5‐reductase 3 (CYB5R3). sGC activators, such as cinaciguat (BAY 58‐2667), have been developed to enhance sGC activity in the absence of NO• or when sGC is oxidised. Accordingly, their effects on the prostate and LUT function of aged mice were evaluated. Aged mice (≥24 months) demonstrated a functional BPH/BOO phenotype, compared with adult animals (2–12 months), with low, delayed voiding responses and elevated intravesical pressures as measured by telemetric cystometry. This was consistent with outflow tract histological and molecular data that showed urethral constriction, increased prostate weight, greater collagen deposition, and cellular hyperplasia. All changes in aged animals were attenuated by daily oral treatment with cinaciguat for 2 weeks, without effect on serum testosterone levels. Cinaciguat had only transient (1 h) cardiovascular effects with oral gavage, suggesting a positive safety profile. The benefit of cinaciguat was suggested by its reversal of an overactive cystometric profile in CYB5R3 smooth muscle knockout mice that mirrors a profile of oxidative dysfunction where PDE5I may not be effective. Thus, the aged male mouse is a suitable model for BPH‐induced BOO and cinaciguat has a demonstrated ability to reduce prostate‐induced obstruction and consequent effects on bladder function. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Acoustic performance of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites: Influencing factors, future scope, challenges, and applications
Authors: Das Partha Pratim , Chaudhary Vijay , Ahmad Furkan , Manral Ankit , Gupta Sumit , Gupta Pallav
Published: December 2021

Noise pollution caused by urbanization and industrial development must be effectively controlled to provide a pleasant living atmosphere. Different synthetic fiber materials have good acoustic performance, yet synthetic fiber materials have a high cost and have adverse effect on the environment. Natural fibers are a good alternative to synthetic fibers in terms of acoustic properties and they are also less expensive and have less environmental impact. Several factors affects the acoustic behavior of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites (NFRPCs). The present article focuses on the effect of different processing methods, reinforcement architecture, fiber diameter, laminate thickness and density on the acoustic performance of NFRPCs. Reinforcement architecture has been proved to be the best option in order to tailor the various acoustic properties of the composite laminates without even changing other physical properties. The challenges, future scope and potential applications of natural fibers in acoustic applications (home theaters, offices, cinema halls, automobiles, etc.) have also been discussed.
Registration of ‘TN14‐5021’, a conventional soybean cultivar with elevated seed protein and resistance to soybean cyst nematode races 2, 3, and 5
Authors: Pantalone Vince , Fallen Ben , Wyman Chris , Cunicelli Mia
Published: December 2021

‘TN14‐5021’ (Reg. no. CV‐543, PI 699124) is a late maturity group IV (relative maturity 4.9) determinate conventional soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar developed and released by the University of Tennessee soybean breeding program. Soybean cultivars with resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN) race 2 are rare, but race 2 is becoming a predominant SCN population infecting farmers’ fields in regions of the U.S. Southeast and Mid‐South. TN14‐5021 also conveys resistance to stem canker [caused by Diaporthe phaseolorum (Cooke & Ellis) Sacc. var. caulivora K.L. Athow & R.M. Caldwell] and strong resistance to SCN races 3 and 5. In replicated trials across 70 environments from the Mid‐South to the Southeast, TN‐5021 showed high yield potential and adaptation to a broad range of growing conditions. TN14‐5021 has white flowers and gray pubescence. The pods have a tan pod coat, and the seeds are yellow with smooth seed coats. Across 48 environments over a 4‐yr period, with testing locations from Kansas to Alabama, TN14‐5021 averaged 406 and 226 g kg–1 protein and oil content, respectively. In comparison, the average protein and oil content of commercial cultivars grown in the same tests averaged 397 and 224 g kg–1, respectively. Its high yield coupled with elevated seed protein concentration and nematode resistance package make TN14‐5021 a valuable cultivar for Tennessee and the Mid‐South region.
Old dog, new tricks: Polydatin as a multitarget agent for current diseases
Authors: Ye Penghui , Wu Hefei , Jiang Yinxiao , Xiao Xiaolin , Song Dan , Xu Nuo , Ma Xiao , Zeng Jinhao , Guo Yaoguang
Published: December 2021

Polydatin (PD) is a natural single‐crystal product that is primarily extracted from the traditional plant Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc. Early research showed that PD exhibited a variety of biological activities. PD has attracted increasing research interest since 2014, but no review comprehensively summarized the new findings. A great gap between its biological activities and drug development remains. It is necessary to summarize new findings on the pharmacological effects of PD on current diseases. We propose that PD will most likely be used in cardiac and cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion‐related diseases and atherosclerosis in the future. The present work classified these new findings according to diseases and summarized the main effects of PD via specific mechanisms of action. In summary, we found that PD played a therapeutic role in a variety of diseases, primarily via five mechanisms: antioxidative effects, antiinflammatory effects, regulation of autophagy and apoptosis, maintenance of mitochondrial function, and lipid regulation.
Bayesian sequential monitoring of density estimates
Authors: Shamp Wright , Linero Antonio , Chicken Eric
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we consider sequentially estimating the density of univariate data. We utilize Pólya trees to develop a statistical process control (SPC) methodology. Our proposed methodology monitors the distribution of the sequentially observed data and detects when the generating density differs from an in‐control standard. We also propose an approximation that merges the probability mass of multiple possible changepoints to curb computational complexity while maintaining the accuracy of the monitoring procedure. We show in simulation experiments that our approach is capable of quickly detecting when a changepoint has occurred while controlling the number of false alarms, and performs well relative to competing methods. We then use our methodology to detect changepoints in high‐frequency foreign exchange (Forex) return data.
Density functional theory study of graphene adhesion on WX2 (X = S and Se) monolayer: Role of atom vacancy and atomic reorganization defects
Authors: Sangolkar Akanksha Ashok , Pooja  , Faizan Mohmmad , Agrawal Rubi , Pawar Ravinder
Published: December 2021

Defects usually play an important role in the modification of the properties of materials. In this investigation, atom vacancy and atomic reorganization defects in various heterostructures obtained using different pristine (or defect‐free) and defective transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) with pristine and defective graphene have been studied using density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Results reveal that: (i) the contact of pristine and defective graphene with various pristine and defective TMDCs is energetically stable, (ii) the stability of these heterostructures driven by dispersion interaction, (iii) the presence of defect significantly influences the work function of the resulting heterostructure, (iv) the pristine graphene/pristine TMDCs heterostructures are metallic in nature with large Schottky barrier (ΦSBH), (v) the heterostructures involving defective graphene are direct band gap semiconductors, (vi) the heterostructures involving defective WS2 are also direct band gap semiconductors, and (vii) the SW defective graphene with pristine WS2/WSe2 forms type‐II heterojunction.
Saturated fatty acids intake is associated with muscle atrophy in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Sebe Mayu , Tsutsumi Rie , Senoura Satoka , Kishi Jun , Iuchi Marina , Mishima Yuna , Tsutsumi Yasuo M. , Kuroda Masashi , Harada Nagakatsu , Nakaya Yutaka , Kinoshita Seizo , Nishioka Yasuhiko , Sakaue Hiroshi
Published: December 2021

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, abnormal body composition, and an increased risk for sarcopenia. Muscle wasting in turn increases the risk of infection, morbidity, and premature mortality, but little is known of the relation between nutrient intake and sarcopenia in RA.

Methods

A prospective cohort study with follow‐up for 1 year examined body composition and diet in female outpatients with RA. We performed logistic regression analysis to assess which factors might have contributed to this loss of muscle mass. Multivariate logistic regression analysis with a forward–backward stepwise selection was also analysed. SKG/Jcl mice, which develop RA spontaneously, were fed normal chow or a high‐fat diet (HFD) and evaluated for inflammation and muscle mass.

Results

A total 53 female patients were included. The median age was 57.0 years, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 49.5 to 62.0 years, and the median disease duration was 4.0 years, with an IQR of 2.0 to 9.0 years. Fourteen patients (26.4%) had skeletal muscle mass index below the cut‐off for sarcopenia (≤5.7 kg/m2) as defined by the Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the intake of saturated fatty acids was associated with a >5% decrease in skeletal muscle index of RA patients over 1 year [odds ratio 95% confidence interval 1.431 (1.082–1.894), P = 0.012]. In 9 weeks old SKG/Jcl mice, HFD feeding precipitated the onset of RA and exacerbated rheumatoid synovitis in association with the induction of T helper 17 cell differentiation. The serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines including IL‐6 and TNF‐α were significantly higher in HFD‐fed RA mice than in normal chow (NC)‐fed RA mice or in HFD‐fed control mice (IL‐6; 3.8 vs. 32.2 pg/mL, P < 0.05). Moreover, the HFD increased expression of the genes for the ubiquitin ligases atrogin‐1 and muscle‐specific RING‐finger protein‐1 (MuRF‐1) in skeletal muscle and elicited a marked loss of muscle mass in these mice (atrogin‐1; 1.72‐fold, MuRF‐1; 1.24‐fold in HFD‐fed mice). HFD‐fed RA mice showed a significant decrease in the weight of gastrocnemius and extensor digitorum longus and muscle volume of the lower limbs compared with NC‐fed RA mice or HFD‐fed control mice at 14 weeks of age.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the consumption of saturated fat may be related to muscle loss in RA patients, and they may therefore provide a basis for a new dietary intervention strategy to prevent muscle wasting associated with this disease.
A CF3SO2Na‐Mediated Photocatalytic Strategy for Aerobic C3‐H Fluoroalkoxylation of Quinoxalinones with Fluoroalkyl Alcohols
Authors: You Guirong , Yan Jizhong
Published: December 2021

A practical, sodium trifluoromethanesulfinate‐mediated C3‐H fluoroalkoxylation of quinoxalinones with fluoroalkyl alcohols under transition‐metal‐ and additives‐free conditions had been developed, exhibitting high‐efficiency and comprehensive functional group tolerance. Various quinoxalinones could undergo this transformation smoothly and provide the corresponding products in good to excellent yields.
Novel Si/N/P‐Containing Flame Retardant for Epoxy Resin with Excellent Comprehensive Performance
Authors: Mingfeng Chen , Huawei Qiao , Shanshan Li , Wei Zhong , Jiashui Lan , Canpei Liu , Huagui Zhang
Published: December 2021

Because of the highly inherent flammability of epoxy resin (EP), its application especially in high‐performance fields that have demands on flame retardancy was greatly limited. Herein, a novel Si/N/P‐containing flame retardant (PMBZ) was prepared to solve the flammability defects of EP. In particular, the sample with 10.0 wt% PMBZ reached a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 32.4 % and could successfully pass UL‐94 V‐0 rating. Meanwhile, there was a 16.1 % and 22.4 % decrease in total smoke production (TSP) and total heat release (THR), respectively. The satisfactory flame retardancy and smoke suppression were due to the introduction of PMBZ, which could function both in condensed and gas phases through forming a compact and coherence self‐extinguishing char layer and inducing a dilution effect. More importantly, the tensile strength, impact strength and flexural strength had also increased by 33.0 %, 53.7 % and 20.7 %, respectively, which indicated the incorporation of PMBZ could also maintain its desired mechanical properties due to the excellent compatibility and enhanced intermolecular interactions. This work provides an exploitable flame retardant additive for epoxy resin to guarantee a superior flame retardancy, favorable smoke suppression and mechanical properties.
Metal‐Free Electrocatalytic C(sp2)‐H Acyloxylation of Aromatic Ring to Synthesis of Acetoxylated Phenylethers
Authors: Chai Yao , Liu Xiao‐Jun , Tian Ya‐Ling , Wang Xi‐Cun , Quan Zheng‐Jun
Published: December 2021

This report describes the electrocatalytic regioselective acyloxylation and halogenation of aromatic C(sp2)‐H bond in an undivided cell without any toxic or expensive metals. This electrocatalytic acyoxylation of phenyl ether resulted in chemoselective C−H bond functionalization to give a series of aryl ether products with acyloxy, hydroxyl and halogen group. In addition, cyclic voltammograms showed that the electrode was the first step to oxidize aromatic rings, and a possible mechanism was proposed based on the experimental results.
Oxyselenocyclization of 2‐Allylphenols for the Synthesis of 2,3‐Dihydrobenzofuran Selenides
Authors: Hellwig Paola S. , Barcellos Angelita M. , Furst Carolina G. , Alberto Eduardo E. , Perin Gelson
Published: December 2021

The reaction between Oxone® and various di(hetero)aryl or alkyl diselenides enables the formation of an electrophilic selenium species in situ capable to induce the oxyselenocyclization of 2‐allylphenols. This versatile and safe protocol was explored to combine two privileged scaffolds into the structure of products: the 2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran core and an organoselenium moiety. Fifteen 2‐[(organoselanyl)methyl]‐2,3‐dihydrobenzofurans were produced, broadening considerably the number of known examples of this hybrid compound. Moreover, preparation of sulfur and tellurium 2,3‐dihydrobenzofurans derivatives was also successfully demonstrated.
Aspiration formation and attention rules
Authors: Berchicci Luca , Tarakci Murat
Published: December 2021

Research Summary

The behavioral theory of the firm (BTOF) proposes that firm behavior is goal‐directed and that organizational aspirations are a function of prior historical aspirations, past performance, and the performance of others. Despite the centrality of aspirations in the BTOF, little is known about aspiration formation and why firms favor one aspiration type over others, that is, attention rules. Drawing on the attention‐based view, we posit that attention rules are shaped by environmental volatility over time and vary by locus of attention across firms. Data from US manufacturing firms managing their toxic chemical waste provide evidence for attention‐rule adaptation.

Managerial Summary

Firms must set aspirations, measure, and improve their toxic waste levels to avoid costly economic, regulatory, and environmental hazards. Although aspirations play a vital role in driving firm behavior, we still have limited understanding of how managers allocate their attention to various performance feedback during aspiration formation. We argue that attention allocation differs for managers across organizational hierarchy exposed to varying degrees of environmental volatility. Greater volatility of the business environment steers managerial attention from the performance of others toward their own historical aspirations. We also suggest that the attention of managers at higher levels of the organizational structure are directed from their own historical aspirations toward performance of others. We find corroborating evidence for our conjectures.
Dual‐Encapsulated Highly Conductive and Liquid‐Free Phase Change Composites Enabled by Polyurethane/Graphite Nanoplatelets Hybrid Networks for Efficient Energy Storage and Thermal Management
Authors: Wu Minqiang , Li Tingxian , Wang Pengfei , Wu Si , Wang Ruzhu , Lin Jie
Published: December 2021

Phase change materials (PCMs) are regarded as promising candidates for realizing zero‐energy thermal management of electronic devices owing to their high thermal storage capacity and stable working temperature. However, PCM‐based thermal management always suffers from the long‐standing challenges of low thermal conductivity and liquid leakage of PCMs. Herein, a dual‐encapsulation strategy to fabricate highly conductive and liquid‐free phase change composites (PCCs) for thermal management by constructing a polyurethane/graphite nanoplatelets hybrid networks is reported. The PCM of polyethylene glycol (PEG) is first infiltrated into the cross‐linked network of polyurethane (PU) to synthesize hybridized semi‐interpenetrated composites (PEG@PU), and then incorporated with reticulated graphite nanoplatelets (RGNPs) via pressure‐induced assembly to fabricate highly conductive PCCs (PEG@PU‐RGNPs). The hybrid networks enable the PCCs to show excellent mechanical strength, liquid‐free phase change, and stable thermal property. Notably, the dual‐encapsulated PCCs exhibit high thermal and electrical conductivities up to 27.0 W m−1 K−1 and 51.0 S cm−1, superior to the state‐of‐the‐art PEG‐based PCCs. Furthermore, the PCC‐based energy device is demonstrated for efficient battery thermal management toward versatile demands of active preheating at a cold environment and passive cooling at a hot ambient. Overall, this work provides a promising route for fabricating highly conductive and liquid‐free PCCs toward thermal management.
Synergetic Piezo‐Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution on CdxZn1‐xS Solid‐Solution 1D Nanorods
Authors: Lin Sen , Li Shutao , Huang Hongwei , Yu Han , Zhang Yihe
Published: December 2021

Conversion of solar and mechanical vibration energies for catalytic water splitting into H2 has gained substantial attention recently. However, the sluggish charge separation and inefficient energy utilization in photocatalytic and piezocatalytic processes severely restrict the catalytic activity. In this paper, efficient piezo‐photocatalytic H2 evolution from water splitting is realized via simultaneously converting solar and vibration energy over one‐dimensional (1D) nanorod‐structured CdxZn1‐xS (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1) solid solutions. Under combined visible light and ultrasound irradiation, Cd0.4Zn0.6S 1D nanorods deliver a prominently synergetic piezo‐photocatalytic H2 yield rate of 4.45 mmol g−1 h−1, far exceeding that under sole ultrasound or illumination. The consumedly promoted catalytic activity of Cd0.4Zn0.6S is attributed to strengthened charge separation by piezo‐potential as disclosed by light‐assisted scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM), increased strain sensitivity, and desirable optimization between piezoelectricity and visible‐light response due to the formation of 1D configuration and solid solution. Metal and metal oxide depositions disclose that reduction and oxidation reactions separately occur at the tips and lateral edges of the Cd0.4Zn0.6S nanorods, in which the spatially separated reactive sites also contribute to super catalytic activity. This work is expected to inspire a new design strategy of coupled catalysis reactions for efficient renewable fuel production.
A flexible approach for virtual machine selection in cloud data centers with AHP
Authors: Ahmadi Javad , Toroghi Haghighat Abolfazl , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Ravanmehr Reza
Published: December 2021

Increasing resource efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of cloud data centers is critical, especially during the global CORONA virus pandemic. Virtual machines' consolidation using live migration maximizes the hosts' and the reduction of energy consumption. An increase in the host's virtual machines in the consolidation process and the dynamic workload of the virtual machines may cause the overloading in the hosts. One approach to overcome this problem is reducing the hosts' virtual machines. One crucial issue to improve the quality of the consolidation process's quality is determining the best virtual machine for the migration process. Although the selection process has lower computational complexity than other challenges (like placement and overload prediction) in the consolidation process, this issue has received less attention. This article aims to present an efficient algorithm for the selection process. We first considered five main criteria for the selection process: migration time, migration risk, virtual machine connectivity, releasable resources, and penalty for SLA violation. Then, we propose an algorithm based on analytic hierarchy process multi‐criteria decision‐making technique. Next, to determine the weight of the proposed criteria, we simulate thousands of virtual machines of the PlanetLab workloads. These weights are tunable based on the data center preferences. The results of the suggested approach results show 23% reduction in the hosts' energy consumption, 49% reduction in the number of migrations, and 18% reduction in the SLA violation compared with other techniques. So, using the proposed method may significantly reduce the overall cost of the data centers.
Modulating metal–organic frameworks for catalyzing acidic oxygen evolution for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis
Authors: Xu Xiaomin , Sun Hainan , Jiang San Ping , Shao Zongping
Published: December 2021

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis represents one of the most promising technologies to achieve green hydrogen production, but currently its practical viability is largely affected by the slow reaction kinetics of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in an acidic environment. While noble metal‐based catalysts containing iridium or ruthenium are excellent catalysts for the acidic OER, their practical use in PEM electrolyzers is hindered due to their low abundance and high cost. Most recently, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been demonstrated as a perfect platform to facilitate the design of acidic OER catalysts with both high efficiency and cost‐effectiveness. Here, we provide a timely and comprehensive overview of the recent progress on MOF‐based acidic OER catalysts. The fundamental mechanisms of the acidic OER are first introduced, followed by a summary of the development of pristine MOFs and MOF derivatives as acidic OER catalysts. Importantly, a number of catalyst design strategies are discussed aiming at improving the acidic OER catalytic performance of MOF‐based candidates. The integration of MOF‐based catalysts into real PEM water electrolyzers is also included. Finally, future research directions are provided to achieve better MOF‐based catalysts operational in acidic environments and PEM devices.
Dynamic Assessment of L2 Writing: Exploring the Potential of Rubrics as Mediation in Diagnosing Learner Emerging Abilities
Authors: Poehner Matthew E. , Yu Lu
Published: December 2021

Rubrics, commonly used in L2 writing programs, not only facilitate teacher grading of student writing, but also serve the purpose of providing feedback to improve learners’ texts. While the potential of rubrics to support writing development more generally has been discussed, realizing that potential through specific pedagogical practices remains under‐researched. Grounded in Vygotskian theory, this study conceptualizes rubrics as a mediating tool for diagnosing and promoting learner writing abilities. We report data concerning two focal participants from a larger study of Dynamic Assessment (DA) in an English academic writing program. A three‐step DA procedure was followed: learners independently produced a draft, reviewed it alongside a mediator who offered prompts, feedback, and guidance, and then independently revised their writing. Both the pre‐ and post‐mediation drafts were rated according to a writing rubric, and comparisons of these ratings highlighted learner responsiveness to mediation. In addition, the mediator annotated the rubric during interaction to reflect the extent of mediation offered and particular areas of learner struggle. Together, the ratings and annotations provided a profile of learner abilities – developed and emerging. From a Vygotskian perspective, the latter provides the appropriate focus of instruction. Implications for use of this approach in intact classrooms are discussed.
A Transraciolinguistic Approach for Literacy Classrooms
Authors: Smith Patriann
Published: December 2021

Across the globe, students increasingly use literacies to cross boundaries, locally and globally, virtually and geographically, willingly and involuntarily. They cross these boundaries with versatile linguistic backgrounds that allow them to effectively navigate new school and life worlds. Many students who cross boundaries are students of color who wrestle with what it means to critically read the word and the world even as they grapple with racialization. At the intersection of students’ border‐crossing, languaging, and racialization are opportunities for understanding how teachers can center race by identifying and leveraging literate assets that immigrant and transnational students of color use to make meaning in and beyond classrooms. In this article, I present a transraciolinguistic approach as an intersectional and critical tool for centering race and racialized language while also addressing border‐crossing in students’ literacy practice. Recommendations for teachers who wish to foster a transraciolinguistic approach to support critical literacy practice for all students are discussed.
Nutritional status of socioeconomically disadvantaged children below 5 years: A cross‐sectional study from Kerala, India
Authors: Jayalakshmi Rajeev , Kannan Srinivasan
Published: December 2021

Undernutrition among children under the age of five remains untracked in India. One in five children are undernourished even in Kerala, a developed south Indian state well known for its egalitarian development. The aim of this paper is to understand the social, economic, and political dimensions of undernutrition among children of age 6–60 months belonging to low socioeconomic households in Kerala. 468 children (50% girls) were surveyed. The prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting among the study children were 25.6%, 24.4%, and 14.4%, respectively. Acute illnesses, underweight of mothers, low standard of living, and not utilizing Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and Public Distribution System (PDS) increased the risk of children being undernourished. The study found that children below 5 years from low socioeconomic strata had a higher risk of being undernourished, proving the vicious cycle of poverty and undernutrition. The association between the nutritional statuses of mothers and children indicates the vulnerability of multiple members from poor households to be malnourished. The utilization of ICDS and PDS was found to improve nutritional status and hence, the state has to ensure that the benefits of these initiatives are reaching the neediest in adequate quantity and quality.
Three-stage limb salvage in tibial fracture related infection with composite bone and soft-tissue defect
Authors: Corona Pablo S. , Carbonell-Rosell Carla , Vicente Matías , Serracanta Jordi , Tetsworth Kevin , Glatt Vaida
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Managing critical-sized tibial defects is one of the most complex challenges orthopedic surgeons face. This is even more problematic in the presence of infection and soft-tissue loss. The purpose of this study is to describe a comprehensive three-stage surgical protocol for the reconstruction of infected tibial injuries with combined bone defects and soft-tissue loss, and report the clinical outcomes.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study at a specialized limb reconstruction center identified all patients with infected tibial injuries with bone and soft-tissue loss from 2010 through 2018. Thirty-one patients were included. All cases were treated using a three-stage protocol: (1) infected limb damage control; (2) soft-tissue coverage with a vascularized or local flap; (3) definitive bone reconstruction using distraction osteogenesis principles with external fixation. Primary outcomes: limb salvage rate and infection eradication. Secondary outcomes: patient functional outcomes and satisfaction.

Results

Patients in this series of chronically infected tibias had been operated upon 3.4 times on average before starting our limb salvage protocol. The mean soft-tissue and bone defect sizes were 124 cm2 (6–600) and 5.4 cm (1–23), respectively. A free flap was performed in 67.7% (21/31) of the cases; bone transport was the selected bone-reconstructive option in 51.7% (15/31). Local flap failure rate was 30% (3/10), with 9.5% for free flaps (2/21). Limb salvage rate was 93.5% (29/31), with infection eradicated in all salvaged limbs. ASAMI bone score: 100% good/excellent. Mean VAS score was 1.0, and ASAMI functional score was good/excellent in 86% of cases. Return-to-work rate was 83%; 86% were “very satisfied” with the treatment outcome.

Conclusion

A three-stage surgical approach to treat chronically infected tibial injuries with combined bone and soft-tissue defects yields high rates of infection eradication and successful limb salvage, with favorable functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Speaking of business ethics: Bourdieu and market morality as a discursive practice
Authors: Cerne Annette
Published: December 2021

While communication of business ethics has increased in importance, it is often understood as being more of immaterial than material value. However, recent studies have demonstrated that language and communication can have important social consequences, changing institutional logics and daily practices in economic fields. This conceptual paper explores how sociologist Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of practice can help us understand how market morality as a discursive practice for value formation is subject not only to linguistic exchange but also market positioning and economic value. The paper offers an inter-disciplinary view of business ethics in combination with socio-linguistics, contributing with propositions for how moral language serves as a currency for business ethics, providing implications for future studies of business ethics as a socio-economic practice.
Tailoring assistive smart glasses according to pathologies of visually impaired individuals: an exploratory investigation on social needs and difficulties experienced by visually impaired individuals
Authors: Ruffieux Simon , Hwang Chiwoong , Junod Vincent , Caldara Roberto , Lalanne Denis , Ruffieux Nicolas
Published: December 2021

Recent advances in the field of assistive devices technology represent a great opportunity for improving the quality of life of people with moderate to severe visual impairment. However, it is still unclear what are the precise daily difficulties, needs and expectations of the smart glasses technology for visually impaired individuals. To this aim, we conducted a survey based on three questionnaires to provide qualitative and quantitative insights on those questions across five groups suffering from various visual pathologies ($$N=50$$

N
=
50

). The results clearly showed the importance of developing tailored solutions to fulfill the heterogeneous daily difficulties and needs identified across pathologies. Overall, groups shared similar expectations regarding the assistive smart glasses functionalities in order to improve social interactions.
The EU self-surplus puzzle: an indication of VAT fraud?
Authors: Braml Martin T. , Felbermayr Gabriel J.
Published: December 2021

The world runs a trade surplus with itself: the reported values of exports exceed the reported values of imports. This is logically impossible but a well-known empirical fact. Less well-known is the fact that, in recent years, the EU has a trade surplus with itself that amounts to more than 80% of the global surplus. In this paper, we show that this EU self-surplus is worth a striking 307 billion Euro in 2018, equaling 1.9% of the Union’s GDP, which persists both in goods and services trade accounts. We further examine discrepancies in goods and services trade accounts at the country and country pair level. These are strongest between neighboring countries and exist for members of the Euro Area as well as non-members. Around the 2004 Eastern Enlargement, the EU self-surplus quadrupled. Our estimations suggest that Cyprus, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Sweden are EU Members with the most inaccurate statistical regimes. We observe systematic biases which unlikely root in random measurement error. By contrast, we suspect that a large fraction of the EU’s self-surplus puzzle seems related to fraud in value added tax (VAT). VAT exemptions for exporters provide strong incentives for the over-declaration of true export values. The resulting loss in tax income could amount to as much as 64 billion Euro per year.
Preparation of Pt electrocatalyst supported by novel, Ti(1−x)MoxO2-C type of composites containing multi-layer graphene
Authors: Ayyubov Ilgar , Vulcu Adriana , Berghian-Grosan Camelia , Tálas Emília , Borbáth Irina , Sajó István E. , Sáfrán György , Mihály Judith , Tompos András
Published: December 2021

Ball milling is a relative simple and promising technique for preparation of inorganic oxide–carbon type of composites. Novel TiO2-C and Ti0.8Mo2O2-C type of composites containing multi-layer graphene were prepared by ball milling of graphite in order to get electrocatalyst supports for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Starting rutile TiO2 was obtained from P25 by heat treatment. Carbon-free Ti0.8Mo2O2 mixed oxide, prepared using our previously developed multistep sol–gel method, does not meet the requirements for materials of electrocatalyst support, therefore parent composites with Ti0.8Mo2O2/C = 75/25, 90/10 and 95/5 mass ratio were prepared using Black Pearls 2000. XRD study of parent composites proved that the oxide part existed in rutile phase which is prerequisite of the incorporation of oxophilic metals providing CO tolerance for the electrocatalyst. Ball milling of TiO2 or parent composites with graphite resulted in catalyst supports with enhanced carbon content and with appropriate specific surface areas. XRD and Raman spectroscopic measurements indicated the changes of graphite during the ball milling procedure while the oxide part remained intact. TEM images proved that platinum existed in the form of highly dispersed nanoparticles on the surface of both the Mo-free and of Mo-containing electrocatalyst. Electrocatalytic performance of the catalysts loaded with 20 wt% Pt was studied by cyclic voltammetry, COads-stripping voltammetry done before and after the 500-cycle stability test, as well as by the long-term stability test involving 10,000 polarization cycles. Enhanced CO tolerance and slightly lower stability comparing to Pt/TiO2-C was demonstrated for Pt/Ti0.8Mo2O2-C catalysts.
Evaluating Mental Health and Wellbeing of Postgraduate Researchers: Prevalence and Contributing Factors
Authors: Milicev Jelena , McCann Mark , Simpson Sharon A. , Biello Stephany M. , Gardani Maria
Published: December 2021

High rates of mental ill-health in postgraduate researchers (PGRs) represent a significant barrier to life satisfaction and academic success. Nevertheless, there is little knowledge about the extent and origins of mental health problems of PGRs in the UK. The current study addresses this gap by investigating the prevalence and provenance of anxiety, depression, sleep problems, subjective mental wellbeing, and suicide behaviours of PGRs in the UK. An online survey (N = 479) was used to measure the mental health outcomes and assess their relationships with demographic, trait and academic variables, policy, and social support. We found a high prevalence of mental ill-health and low levels of wellbeing in the current sample. Factors associated with poorer outcomes were female and non-binary gender, non-heterosexual identity, maladaptive perfectionism, workaholism and being in the 5th year of study or above. Resilience, adaptive perfectionism, higher levels of social support and positive evaluations of progress and preparation, departmental climate, and supervisory relationship were associated with more positive outcomes. The current findings contribute new knowledge about the prevalence of mental health symptoms in PGRs in the UK, implying that institutional efforts to improve PGR wellbeing should include strategies to promote equality, diversity, resilience, integration, social support, and work-life balance of PGRs.
‘Save the queen’: female national wheelchair basketball players in gender-segregated and gender-mixed competitive sport
Authors: Greve Steffen , Süßenbach Jessica
Published: December 2021

In the German National Wheelchair Basketball League, men and women play together. On the national teams, on the other hand, they play separately according to gender. In addition, people without disabilities can also participate in wheelchair basketball. The differences in terms of disability and gender are to be classified and, if possible, eliminated in the competition with a classification system. The intersectional analysis of 12 biographical interviews with current national team players shows a clear reproduction of a traditional gender order. The women report various hierarchical relationships on the playing field that are obviously based on gender. Men play in more important positions and are considered more efficient. Yet these phenomena are mostly taken for granted and hardly questioned. Likewise, certain characteristics are attributed and certain roles are assigned to female players based on their gender. The men interviewed do not see these phenomena or do not reflect on them critically. The difference category of disability also has an influence on the competition setting and the gender discrimination.
Naive Introspection in the Philosophy of Perception
Authors: Spener Maja
Published: December 2021

In this paper I critically examine uses of introspection in present-day philosophy of perception. First, I introduce a distinction between two different meanings of the term ‘introspection’: introspective access and introspective method. I show that they are both at work in the philosophy of perception but not adequately distinguished. I then lay out some concerns about the use of introspection to collect data about consciousness that were raised in over a hundred years ago, by some early experimentalist psychologists, part of so-called ‘Introspectionist Psychology’. As I argue, these concerns apply to current philosophical uses of introspection but they are not acknowledged, much less addressed. I explain this by applying the distinction between introspective access and introspective method. As a result, extant arguments relying on introspection-based phenomenal descriptions are methodologically problematic. These problems do not call into question the use of introspection in theorising altogether. But we need to take more care in how we use it.
Optimization of insulation on subsea oil and gas equipment
Authors: Somassoundirame Ramechecandane , Nithiyananthan Eswari
Published: December 2021

Optimization of insulation on subsea oil and gas equipment can lead to significant cost and weight reduction. A judicious combination of commercially available Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software with evolutionary optimization algorithms can efficiently serve this purpose. In the present study, the optimization of insulation on a gate valve has been presented with due emphasis on the methodology adapted. A parameterized model of the gate valve with several dimensions of interest has been chosen for the numerical experiment. Of the various Design of Experiment (DOE) techniques, the Optimal Space Filling (OSF) method has been considered for generating the samples owing to its robustness and the associated computational cost. The insulation in subsea systems is usually supposed to satisfy two contradicting constraints, it must be ensured that the temperature of the production fluid remains above the Hydrate Formation Temperature (HFT) and at the same time the production fluid temperature cannot be too high, as to create structural damage of the seals in High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) applications. The sample cases are run simultaneously in a cluster and a response surface is created using genetic aggregation using the various samples those are generated by OSF. The resulting response surface is finally subjected to optimization using the calculus based/gradient based methods. In the present investigation, the optimization is performed using the NonLinear Programming with Quadratic Lagrangian (NLPQL) and Adaptive Single Objective (ASO) Methods. The results obtained show that almost two thirds of the insulation can be effectively removed without compromising on the thermal efficiency of the system. Similar savings have been witnessed in several other cases/subsea geometries that the authors are aware of. The presented case is truly representative of a wide class of subsea applications and the proposed methodology can be suitably adjusted to customer specific requirements to provide suitable results.