bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the evolution and impact of architectural smells—an industrial case study
Authors: Sas Darius , Avgeriou Paris , Uyumaz Umut
Published: April 2022

Architectural smells (AS) are notorious for their long-term impact on the Maintainability and Evolvability of software systems. The majority of research work has investigated this topic by mining software repositories of open source Java systems, making it hard to generalise and apply them to an industrial context and other programming languages. To address this research gap, we conducted an embedded multiple-case case study, in collaboration with a large industry partner, to study how AS evolve in industrial embedded systems. We detect and track AS in 9 C/C++ projects with over 30 releases for each project that span over two years of development, with over 20 millions lines of code in the last release only. In addition to these quantitative results, we also interview 12 among the developers and architects working on these projects, collecting over six hours of qualitative data about the usefulness of AS analysis and the issues they experienced while maintaining and evolving artefacts affected by AS. Our quantitative findings show how individual smell instances evolve over time, how long they typically survive within the system, how they overlap with instances of other smell types, and finally what the introduction order of smell types is when they overlap. Our qualitative findings, instead, provide insights on the effects of AS on the long-term maintainability and evolvability of the system, supported by several excerpts from our interviews. Practitioners also mention what parts of the AS analysis actually provide actionable insights that they can use to plan refactoring activities.
Thermodynamics of Melting in Colloids and Helium
Authors: Brady Robert M. , Samulski Edward T.
Published: April 2022

Enhanced fluctuations pervade a phase near a transition point. This phenomenon was observed in recent simulations of polyhedral particles, where rod-shaped vacancy defects diffused through a solid phase carrying mass flow. The defects proliferated at the melting point, magnifying the mass flow to liquid proportions. Here, we show that the number of vacancies increases on heating or lowering the pressure, in accordance with Boltzmann statistics, but the Boltzmann equilibrium becomes unstable at a threshold number resulting in the first-order melting transition. The instability is driven by an increase in entropy if the defects repel, or by a reduction in enthalpy if they attract. A corresponding thermodynamic instability occurs in other melting transitions, including in argon, colloids, cryogenic helium and simulations of hard spheres. The statistics of the vacancies explains a long-standing anomaly in the heat capacity of solid helium-4, as well as recent measurements of thermally activated mass flow through solid helium-3. In liquid helium-4, the vacancies conform to Feynman’s atomistic and quantum descriptions of rotons and quantitatively account for associated neutron scattering measurements. Colloids, silicon and sodium also melt ‘re-entrantly’ on elevating the pressure, and we identify quantitative evidence that this transition involves the proliferation of interstitial defects.
Persistence and stability of a class of kinetic compartmental models
Authors: Szederkényi Gábor , Ács Bernadett , Lipták György , Vághy Mihály A.
Published: April 2022

In this paper we show that the dynamics of a class of kinetic compartmental models with bounded capacities, monotone reaction rates and a strongly connected interconnection structure is persistent. The result is based on the chemical reaction network (CRN) and the corresponding Petri net representation of the system. For the persistence analysis, it is shown that all siphons in the Petri net of the studied model class can be characterized efficiently. Additionally, the existence and stability of equilibria are also analyzed building on the persistence and the theory of general compartmental systems. The obtained results can be applied in the analysis of general kinetic models based on the simple exclusion principle.
Fluid dynamic shape optimization using self-adapting nonlinear extension operators with multigrid preconditioners
Authors: Pinzon Jose , Siebenborn Martin
Published: April 2022

In this article we propose a scalable shape optimization algorithm which is tailored for large scale problems and geometries represented by hierarchically refined meshes. Weak scalability and grid independent convergence is achieved via a combination of multigrid schemes for the simulation of the PDEs and quasi Newton methods on the optimization side. For this purpose a self-adapting, nonlinear extension operator is proposed within the framework of the method of mappings. This operator is demonstrated to identify critical regions in the reference configuration where geometric singularities have to arise or vanish. Thereby the set of admissible transformations is adapted to the underlying shape optimization situation. The performance of the proposed method is demonstrated for the example of drag minimization of an obstacle within a stationary, incompressible Navier–Stokes flow.
An analysis of intertemporal inconsistency through the hyperbolic factor
Authors: Ventre Viviana , Cruz Rambaud Salvador , Martino Roberta , Maturo Fabrizio
Published: April 2022

Intertemporal choices play a fundamental role in the lives of individuals, and the Discounted Utility model is the essential framework for describing decision makers’ attitudes in front of alternatives structured over multiple periods. The classical formulation of the model assumes constant preferences over time, i.e., it assumes that individuals’ choices are consistent. Empirical evidence, however, shows that individuals’ preferences do not respond to this assumption, generating temporally inconsistent decisions. This paper addresses the problem of temporal inconsistency in order to interpret and describe anomalous choices, i.e., not rationalizable from a theoretical point of view, through the cognitive distortions of the decision-maker. Indeed, even if we assume that the investor is a rational subject, behavioral finance suggests that an anomaly is part of the human being and must be recognized as a systematic condition of the decision-making process. Exploiting the relationship between the rate of impatience and temporal preference, this work aims to demonstrate that the degree of decrease in impatience quantifies the weight of emotional drives in the anomalies of intertemporal choices. An experimental approach based on constructing the hyperbolic factor for each individual in different contexts is presented to test our results. The variability in the collected data highlights that individuals’ behavior is very different, suggesting the need to project strategies in personalized finance.
Deregulation, Entry, and Competition in Local Banking Markets
Authors: Coccorese Paolo , Pellecchia Alfonso
Published: April 2022

By applying the Bresnahan-Reiss empirical entry threshold model on Census data for the waves 1981 to 2011, we study the evolution of entry conditions in Italian local banking markets under a long-run perspective in order to capture the consequences of the removal of branching restrictions that occurred in the early 1990s. We do not find evidence of collusive behavior among local banks; instead, competition seems to have increased with respect to the number of banks and through the years—even if banks’ variable profits have risen over time. Overall, banks appear to have responded to the growing competition through the adoption of non-price strategies.
Essential spawning grounds of Scottish herring: current knowledge and future challenges
Authors: Frost M. , Diele K.
Published: April 2022

Scotland once had the largest herring fishery globally, generating local income, identity, and societal change. Following historic stock collapse, in spring 2018/2019 large herring shoals were observed on the west coast for the first time in decades, at a formerly important spawning ground. This highlights the urgency of maintaining historic (and contemporary) benthic spawning habitat, which these fish rely upon, in good condition. However, information on exact location, characteristics, and status of historic and contemporary spawning grounds, if existing, is not easily accessible. We searched over 1190 literature sources, dating back to 1884, using scientific databases and web-based searches, and ran a query for automated search of comprehensive historic reports. We present current knowledge on Scottish herring spawning grounds, retrieved through these searches and fisher interviews, maps showing historic and contemporary spawning grounds, and discuss challenges arising from the methods used to recognize these grounds. Knowledge gaps regarding location and environmental status of past and current spawning grounds, particularly relevant for Scotland’s west coast, are identified. Based on the importance of specific environmental and physical variables for herring reproductive success, we advocate the inclusion of essential spawning grounds into herring management plans. This will require additional data on spawning grounds, including historic local ecological knowledge rarely considered. An inclusive ecosystem-based approach to herring management would allow more targeted actions to  conserve (and potentially restore) essential spawning habitat. More effective management strategies will also call for reversing the (global) issue of the disconnect between different stakeholder groups.

Graphical abstract
Graduation of initial public offering firms from junior stock markets: evidence from the Tokyo Stock Exchange
Authors: Honjo Yuji , Kurihara Koki
Published: April 2022

This study explores the graduation of initial public offering (IPO) firms and regulatory reforms in junior stock markets. Using firms listed on the two junior stock markets of the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), the Market of the high-growth and emerging stocks (MOTHERS) and JASDAQ Securities Exchange (JASDAQ), we examine the factors that affect the time to graduation to the TSE main markets. We find that young IPO firms and those with high research and development (R&D) intensity are less likely to graduate from the TSE junior markets (MOTHERS and JASDAQ). The results also reveal that listing regulations on graduation to the TSE main market, which were introduced only to the MOTHERS, but not to the JASDAQ, accelerate the graduation of IPO firms. Furthermore, we provide evidence that IPO firms that ultimately graduate to the TSE main markets exhibit better performance.
Two-dimensional mapping of university profiles in research
Authors: Fuchs Joel Emanuel , Heinze Thomas
Published: April 2022

There are size-leveling indexes used to demonstrate profiling of entities in different fields, such as the Activity Index (AI) or the Index of Relative Specialization (RESP). Concentrating on the RESP, we consider German state universities as entities and their academic disciplines as fields. While it is common to illustrate several RESP values concurrently using heatmaps, we show that an interpretation of such heatmaps without further information can be misleading. Therefore, we introduce a weight for each RESP value that represents the fraction of a field at a university. Those weights correspond to RESP values that are uniquely identifiable by field and university, resulting in tuples of RESP values and their weights. We introduce a new kind of heatmap that not only illustrates RESP values but represents their corresponding weights. Those new heatmaps are less misleading than classical ones. Our introduction of a new class of heatmaps improves heatmap representation, especially for longitudinal RESP data without the need for additional tables to show the extra information.
Reference materials for MS-based untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics: a review by the metabolomics quality assurance and quality control consortium (mQACC)
Authors: Lippa Katrice A. , Aristizabal-Henao Juan J. , Beger Richard D. , Bowden John A. , Broeckling Corey , Beecher Chris , Clay Davis W. , Dunn Warwick B. , Flores Roberto , Goodacre Royston , Gouveia Gonçalo J. , Harms Amy C. , Hartung Thomas , Jones Christina M. , Lewis Matthew R. , Ntai Ioanna , Percy Andrew J. , Raftery Dan , Schock Tracey B. , Sun Jinchun , Theodoridis Georgios , Tayyari Fariba , Torta Federico , Ulmer Candice Z. , Wilson Ian , Ubhi Baljit K.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The metabolomics quality assurance and quality control consortium (mQACC) is enabling the identification, development, prioritization, and promotion of suitable reference materials (RMs) to be used in quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) for untargeted metabolomics research.

Objectives

This review aims to highlight current RMs, and methodologies used within untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics communities to ensure standardization of results obtained from data analysis, interpretation and cross-study, and cross-laboratory comparisons. The essence of the aims is also applicable to other ‘omics areas that generate high dimensional data.

Results

The potential for game-changing biochemical discoveries through mass spectrometry-based (MS) untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics are predicated on the evolution of more confident qualitative (and eventually quantitative) results from research laboratories. RMs are thus critical QC tools to be able to assure standardization, comparability, repeatability and reproducibility for untargeted data analysis, interpretation, to compare data within and across studies and across multiple laboratories. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) that promote, describe and exemplify the use of RMs will also improve QC for the metabolomics and lipidomics communities.

Conclusions

The application of RMs described in this review may significantly improve data quality to support metabolomics and lipidomics research. The continued development and deployment of new RMs, together with interlaboratory studies and educational outreach and training, will further promote sound QA practices in the community.
From Emerson-Lei automata to deterministic, limit-deterministic or good-for-MDP automata
Authors: John Tobias , Jantsch Simon , Baier Christel , Klüppelholz Sascha
Published: April 2022

The topic of this paper is the determinization problem of$$\omega $$ω-automata under thetransition-based Emerson-Leiacceptance (called TELA), which generalizes all standard acceptance conditions and is defined using positive Boolean formulas. Such automata can be determinized by first constructing an equivalentgeneralized Büchi automaton(GBA), which is later determinized. The problem of constructing an equivalent GBA is considered in detail, and three new approaches of solving it are proposed. Furthermore, a new determinization construction is introduced which determinizes several GBA separately and combines them using a product construction. An experimental evaluation shows that the product approach is competitive when compared with state-of-the-art determinization procedures. The second part of the paper studies limit-determinization of TELA and we show that this can be done with a single-exponential blow-up, in contrast to the known double-exponential lower-bound for determinization. Finally, one version of the limit-determinization procedure yieldsgood-for-MDPautomata which can be used for quantitative probabilistic model checking.
Basis expansion approaches for functional analysis of variance with repeated measures
Authors: Acal Christian , Aguilera Ana M.
Published: April 2022

The methodological contribution in this paper is motivated by biomechanical studies where data characterizing human movement are waveform curves representing joint measures such as flexion angles, velocity, acceleration, and so on. In many cases the aim consists of detecting differences in gait patterns when several independent samples of subjects walk or run under different conditions (repeated measures). Classic kinematic studies often analyse discrete summaries of the sample curves discarding important information and providing biased results. As the sample data are obviously curves, a Functional Data Analysis approach is proposed to solve the problem of testing the equality of the mean curves of a functional variable observed on several independent groups under different treatments or time periods. A novel approach for Functional Analysis of Variance (FANOVA) for repeated measures that takes into account the complete curves is introduced. By assuming a basis expansion for each sample curve, two-way FANOVA problem is reduced to Multivariate ANOVA for the multivariate response of basis coefficients. Then, two different approaches for MANOVA with repeated measures are considered. Besides, an extensive simulation study is developed to check their performance. Finally, two applications with gait data are developed.
Six statistical issues in scientific writing that might lead to rejection of a manuscript
Authors: Agathokleous Evgenios , Yu Lei
Published: April 2022

Communication plays an important role in advancing scientific fields and disciplines, defining what knowledge is made accessible to the public, and guiding policymaking and regulation of public authorities for the benefit of the environment and society. Hence, what is finally published is of great importance for scientific advancement, social development, environmental and public health, and economic agendas. In recognition of these, the goal of a researcher is to communicate research findings to the scientific community and ultimately, to the public. However, this may often be challenging due to competition for publication space, although to a lesser extent nowadays that online-only publications have expanded. This editorial introduces six statistics-related issues in scientific writing that you should be aware of. These issues can lead to desk rejection or rejection following a peer review, but even if papers containing such issues are published, they may prevent cumulative science, undermine scientific advancement, mislead the public, and result in incorrect or weak policies and regulations. Therefore, addressing these issues from the early research stages can facilitate scientific advancement and prevent rejection of your paper.
Die Bedeutung von computerunterstützter Operationstechnik und Planung der Glenoidpositionierung bei anatomischer Schultertotalprothese
Authors: Grubhofer Florian , Wieser Karl
Published: April 2022

Die Behandlung der Omarthrose durch die Implantation einer anatomischen Schultertotalprothese führt bei korrekter Indikation zu verlässlichen, sehr guten und langanhaltenden Behandlungsergebnissen. Bei zunehmender posteriorer glenoidaler Abnutzung kommt es zur Zunahme von Komplikationen und Revisionen, welche die Schulterfunktion negativ beeinflussen. Durch die Anwendung von präoperativer dreidimensionaler (3D-)Planung und intraoperativer Guidance-Technologien wird versucht, die Behandlung der anatomischen Schultertotalprothese bei B2-, B3- und C‑Glenoiden verlässlicher zu machen. In diesem Übersichtsartikel soll der Stellenwert der computerassistierten Technologien bei Implantation einer anatomischen Schulterprothese beleuchtet werden.
Analysis of the Experiences of Polyamorists in Spain
Authors: Rodríguez-Castro Yolanda , García Manso Almudena , Martínez-Román Rosana , Aguiar-Fernández Francisco Xavier , Peixoto Caldas Jose Manuel
Published: April 2022

The objectives of this study were to determine and to expose the morphology of polyamorous relationships through their conception and characteristics, identifying experienced and perceived situations of discrimination, and to analyze the future expectations for polyamorous relationships. For this purpose, 11 people who were in a polyamorous relationship, with an age ranging from 26 to 57 years, were interviewed. The results show that polyamorous people define their relationships as casual, without possession, a lifestyle that includes friendship, trust, affection, and sex. The success of this type of relationship depends on freedom, respect for each other’s spaces, flexibility of roles, and sharing household expenses and responsibilities. All participants claimed to experience and perceive discrimination by their environment and society. Among their expectations for the future is continuing the relationship, even considering reproduction. Such relationships represent a breakdown of the monogamous society. Poliamory poses many challenges in an attempt to legitimize the diversity of relationships and environments of coexistence in our society.
Techno-economic and Sensitivity Analyses of Different Biodiesel Production Pathways by Adding Tetrahydrofuran as a Cosolvent
Authors: El-Galad M. I. , El-Khatib K. M. , El-Sheltawy S. T.
Published: April 2022

The main objective of this study is to design and simulate three different continuous processes, namely, homogeneous and heterogeneous alkali-catalyzed and supercritical methanolysis processes to produce biodiesel at a production rate of 100,000 t/year from virgin vegetable oil. Tetrahydrofuran (THF) was used as a cosolvent at different concentrations of 25 wt.%, 30 wt.%, and 1.63 wt. % for the homogeneous and heterogeneous alkali-catalyzed and supercritical processes, respectively. An economic assessment and a sensitivity analysis were performed based on the results of the process design and simulation. Technical assessment of the proposed processes indicated that the homogeneous and heterogeneous alkali-catalyzed processes were the simplest, where the least amount of process equipment were used. whereas the supercritical methanolysis process was more complex, which used a large number of transesterification and separation units. The homogeneous alkali-catalyzed process that used THF demonstrated the lowest total capital investment, after-tax net profit, and payback period of M$2.32, M$10.54, and 0.19 years, respectively, and the highest after-tax rate of return of 513%. However, the heterogeneous alkali-catalyzed process that used THF demonstrated the lowest manufacturing cost of M$82.20 and the highest after-tax net profit of M$18.20. The supercritical methanolysis process that used THF demonstrated the highest manufacturing cost of M$90.07 and the after-tax net profit of M$12.40. The results from the sensitivity analyses indicated that the methanol recovery percentage, biodiesel purification tower vacuum pressure, and costs of feedstock oil, methanol, biodiesel, and glycerin by-products are the factors that most significantly affect the economic feasibility of biodiesel production.
Developing ambient assisted living technologies exploiting potential of user-centred co-creation and agile methodology: the CAPTAIN project experience
Authors: Tessarolo Francesco , Petsani Despoina , Conotter Valentina , Nollo Giandomenico , Conti Giuseppe , Nikolaidou Maria , Onorati Giulia , Bamidis Panagiotis D. , Konstantinidis Evdokimos I.
Published: April 2022

Information and Communication Technology can turn older adults’ homes into smart living environments, decreasing the need for support and improving life quality. However, new technology has high uncertainty in terms of acceptance. Co-creation approaches are proposed to reach high acceptability, usability and satisfaction, but performance evaluations are sparse. This paper aimed at presenting the evaluation of a hybrid approach of Agile co-creation framework, specially designed for large, distributed consortia and cross-national collaborations.

The new framework, leveraging the concepts of Design Thinking, Lean start-up, and SCRUM Agile, was tested in the H2020 CAPTAIN project. A network of stakeholders, built across five Living Labs, allowed the participatory design of the CATAIN technology through multiple iterations. A pre-post assessment questionnaire was administered to team components and used to compare partners’ perspective and satisfaction about CAPTAIN‘s and other projects methodologies. A longitudinal assessment throughout the iterations, using actionable metrics, monitored team morale and stakeholders’ engagement and satisfaction.

The CAPTAIN development process resulted in a stronger involvement of the partners and a in better perception of requirements elicitation, design and development process than previous projects. Team morale was good and steady along the development iterations. Stakeholders increased from 91 to 132 along the iterations and more than 90% were satisfied.

The tested framework went beyond usual participatory designs. It required stronger technical coordination, activity planning and communication among technical and pilot partners, but resulted in high satisfaction and engagement of both team members and stakeholders, showing its validity as a development approach for H2020 projects.
Association of has_circ_0001944 upregulations with prognosis and cancer progression in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Duan He , Qiu Jian
Published: April 2022

Background

CircRNAs are functional in cancer-related processes and are promising candidates for cancer prognostic biomarkers. The study aimed to evaluate the functional and clinical significance of has_circ_0001944 in colorectal cancer (CRC), including predictive value for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS), and its effect on cell growth and metastasis.

Methods

This retrospective study included 133 patients with CRC. The expression of has_circ_0001944 in tissues and cells was quantified by real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Receiver operating characteristics and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were used to assess the significance of has_circ_0001944 as a prognostic marker, and its reliability was validated using multivariate regression analysis. Subsequently, XTT, transwell migration, and modified-transwell invasion assays were used to determine the behavior of the CRC cells in response to has_circ_0001944 inhibition.

Results

Results of the qRT-PCR showed upregulation of has_circ_0001944 in the CRC samples compared to the normal samples. High has_circ_0001944 expression indicated shorter OS and RFS, comes down to poor prognosis. Multivariate regression analysis showed that elevated has_circ_0001944 increased the risk of death or recurrence and is a valuable prognostic factor. Following the has_circ_0001944 inhibition, the proliferation, migration and invasion of the CRC cells were reduced. miR-548b-3p was target miRNA of has_circ_0001944.

Conclusion

Up-regulation of has_circ_0001944 is associated with a poor prognosis of CRC. has_circ_0001944 downregulation can slow the progression of CRC partly by targeting miR-548b-3p.
Spatial and Temporal Variation in Macrophyte Litter Decomposition in a Rare Chain-of-ponds, an Intermittent Stream and Wetland System
Authors: Hardwick Lorraine J. , Fryirs Kirstie A. , Hose Grant C.
Published: April 2022

Ponds and wetlands around the world face anthropogenic pressures that threaten key ecosystem processes such as nutrient and organic matter cycling. Wetlands in arid and semi-arid regions are particularly at risk from uncertainty of water availability and competing pressures for use. Such threats are most acute for non-perennial systems that rely on occasional surface water flows to maintain important ecological functions.

This study investigates the decomposition of an endemic macrophyte Cycnogeton procerum (R.Br.) Buchenau as a key ecosystem process in a chain-of-ponds wetland system, located in the intermittently flowing Mulwaree River, New South Wales, Australia. The aims of this study were to identify spatial and temporal patterns and the relative importance of microbial activity in macrophyte decomposition to improve our understanding of ecological processes in these intermittent systems.

Exponential decomposition rates (proportional mass loss (g)) were highest during spring and summer (0.07-0.10 kd-1) and slower during autumn and winter (0.03-0.04 kd-1), reflecting seasonal drivers. Decomposition was significantly different in 9 mm and 150 μm mesh bags only during spring, suggesting decomposition was mostly performed by microbes, with invertebrate herbivores possibly only a factor during spring lotic conditions.

Mesotrophic conditions, regulated by flow and internal macrophyte and algal dynamics appear to maintain a highly productive, macrophyte-dominated aquatic wetland system. Temperature was a major factor in decomposition rates and expected increases due to climate change will accentuate pressure on the resilience of the macrophyte community. Alterations caused by changing climate and anthropogenic land use place the ponds at high risk.
Promises and Pitfalls of Algorithm Use by State Authorities
Authors: Haeri Maryam Amir , Hartmann Kathrin , Sirsch Jürgen , Wenzelburger Georg , Zweig Katharina A.
Published: April 2022

Algorithmic systems are increasingly used by state agencies to inform decisions about humans. They produce scores on risks of recidivism in criminal justice, indicate the probability for a job seeker to find a job in the labor market, or calculate whether an applicant should get access to a certain university program. In this contribution, we take an interdisciplinary perspective, provide a bird’s eye view of the different key decisions that are to be taken when state actors decide to use an algorithmic system, and illustrate these decisions with empirical examples from case studies. Building on these insights, we discuss the main pitfalls and promises of the use of algorithmic system by the state and focus on four levels: The most basic question whether an algorithmic system should be used at all, the regulation and governance of the system, issues of algorithm design, and, finally, questions related to the implementation of the system on the ground and the human–machine-interaction that comes with it. Based on our assessment of the advantages and challenges that arise at each of these levels, we propose a set of crucial questions to be asked when such intricate matters are addressed.
TiO2/spacer succinate films grafted onto nylon as a new approach to develop self-cleaning textile fibers that remove stains: a promising way to reduce reliance on cleaning water
Authors: Mejia M. I. , Mosquera-Pretelt J. , Marín J. M. , Pulgarín C. , Kiwi J.
Published: April 2022

Succinic acid was used as a spacer to bind titanium dioxide onto nylon as a new approach to develop self-cleaning fibers. Photoinduced decomposition of stains was achieved within acceptable times under ultraviolet A irradiation, a component of both solar light and indoor lamps spectrum. The surface properties of this innovative film were determined by scanning electron microscopy, electron-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The self-cleaning process was evaluated by analyzing the discoloration of coffee and palm oil stains by ultraviolet/visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy and mineralization via CO2 evolution, recorded using an infrared sensor. The results indicate that grafting TiO2 onto nylon, a synthetic fiber, using succinic acid is a successful chemical binding method, leading to a new self-cleaning material for stain discoloration. This new material is a promising solution to save water and reduce wastewater generated by the use of conventional substances used in textile cleaning.
Two dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with spatial white noise potential and fourth order nonlinearity
Authors: Tzvetkov N. , Visciglia N.
Published: April 2022

We consider NLS on $$\mathbb {T}^2$$

T

2

with multiplicative spatial white noise and nonlinearity between cubic and quartic. We prove global existence, uniqueness and convergence almost surely of solutions to a family of properly regularized and renormalized approximating equations. In particular we extend a previous result by A. Debussche and H. Weber available in the cubic and sub-cubic setting.
Successful School Interventions for Students with Disability During Covid-19: Empirical Evidence from Australia
Authors: Smith Catherine , Tani Massimiliano , Yates Sophie , Dickinson Helen
Published: April 2022

Children and young people with disability are a “vulnerable” population within a pandemic context as they face structural inequities and discrimination as a result of their impairments. In this paper, we report research that sought to examine the learning experiences of children and young people with disability during the COVID-19 pandemic. We wanted to understand how this group fared and whether different interventions impacted on these experiences. Data were collected from an online survey organized by Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA) that garnered responses from more than 700 families. The study contributes empirical evidence to the growing literature about COVID-19-related impacts on learners already recognized as experiencing multiple disadvantages in schooling. We find some significant gaps in supports offered to students with disability and their families. Notwithstanding that some students did not receive any support from their schools, where supports were offered, social supports had the greatest positive impact on feelings of learner engagement. Our findings support key propositions in the social and emotional learning literature, namely that particular resourcing should be dedicated to social interaction and feelings of belonging as these are crucial to learners engaging in learning processes. There are clear implications of these findings in terms of what educational institutions might do to help engage students with disability in remote learning.
An automated water dispensing system for controlling fires in coal yards
Authors: Jayasuriya Jeevan , Moser Irene , de Mel Ravi
Published: April 2022

In spite of recent moves to wean the world of fossil fuels, coal remains the main source of power in many countries. Coal yards are prone to spontaneous ignition, a problem faced in every country that stores or transports coal. Depending on the environment-temperature, ventilation, and the rank of the coal-heating and self-ignition can be a longer or shorter process, but the possibility can never be entirely dismissed. A plethora of studies have modelled this oxidation behavior and proposed countermeasures. Most often, human intervention is necessary, which is both slow and dangerous for the firefighters involved. In this study, we propose to build a complete firefighting solution which is mounted on a number of towers sufficient to cover the area of an open coal yard, complete with redundancy. Each tower includes an inexpensive infrared detector, a water dispenser and a controller programmed to identify areas of elevated temperature, and actuate the dispenser. The heat direction algorithm calculates the parameters to position the water dispenser so that it covers the area. A prototype has been built from inexpensive components to demonstrate the effectiveness at detecting and extinguishing arising fires, and a solution has been costed for the coal yard in the case study. This work has been conducted in collaboration with the managers of the coal yard of a power plant.
Cisternal irrigation and clot removal to prevent vasospasm and poor outcome in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Florez-Perdomo William , Mishra Rakesh , García-Ballestas Ezequiel , Lozada-Martínez Ivan David , Quiñones-Ossa Gabriel Alexander , Joaquim Andrei , Agrawal Amit , Janjua Tariq , Rahman Sabrina , Suarez-Causado Amileth , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Cerebral vasospasm is the most common factor contributing to morbidity and poor outcome in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, second only to rebleeding. Most of current evidence assessed the role of vasodilator effect of the irrigating fluid, and the evidence on effects of cisternal irrigation and clots is currently scarce.

Method:

According to PRISMA guidelines, determined databases were searched for studies and a meta-analysis was performed. Studies included had to meet the established criteria. The statistical analysis was carried out to obtain relative risk with the Mantel-Haenszel methodology for dichotomous variables.

Results:

After screening and thorough review, five articles were included for qualitative and quantitative synthesis. (n = 621) participants included in this study with n = 472 for the irrigation group and n = 149 for the non-irrigation group. The mean age of the patients was 59.5 years (age range 27–91 years), with 33.5% male and 66.5% female patients. Cisternal irrigation and clot removal reduce vasospasm (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.22–0.95) and poor outcome (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.25–0.65).

Conclusions:

Irrigation of cisterns and aggressive clot removal is a safe and effective procedure in preventing vasospasm and poor outcome in aSAH patients. No significant differences in hemorrhagic, ischemic, and infectious complications with cisternal irrigation and clot removal were reported. Removal of blood clots increases clot clearance and reduces the risk of the development of post-aneurysmal hydrocephalus.

Highlights
Deep Neural Networks for Creating Reliable PmP Database With a Case Study in Southern California
Authors: Ding Wen , Li Tianjue , Yang Xu , Ren Kui , Tong Ping
Published: April 2022

Recent progresses in artificial intelligence and machine learning make it possible to automatically identify seismic phases from exponentially growing seismic data. Despite some exciting successes in automatic picking of the first P‐ and S‐wave arrivals, auto‐identification of later seismic phases such as the Moho‐reflected PmP waves remains a significant challenge in matching the performance of experienced analysts. The main difficulty of machine‐identifying PmP waves is that the identifiable PmP waves are rare, making the problem of identifying the PmP waves from a massive seismic database inherently unbalanced. In this work, by utilizing a high‐quality PmP data set (10,192 manual picks) in southern California, we develop PmPNet, a deep‐neural‐network‐based algorithm to automatically identify PmP waves efficiently; by doing so, we accelerate the process of identifying the PmP waves. PmPNet applies similar techniques in the machine learning community to address the unbalancement of PmP datasets. The architecture of PmPNet is a residual neural network (ResNet)‐autoencoder with additional predictor block, where encoder, decoder, and predictor are equipped with ResNet connection. We conduct systematic research with field data, concluding that PmPNet can efficiently achieve high precision and high recall simultaneously to automatically identify PmP waves from a massive seismic database. Applying the pre‐trained PmPNet to the seismic database from January 1990 to December 1999 in southern California, we obtain nearly twice more PmP picks than the original PmP data set, providing valuable data for other studies such as mapping the topography of the Moho discontinuity and imaging the lower crust structures of southern California.
Global Changes in Terrestrial Vegetation and Continental Climate During the Paleocene‐Eocene Thermal Maximum
Authors: Korasidis Vera A. , Wing Scott L. , Shields Christine A. , Kiehl Jeffrey T.
Published: April 2022

Most studies of the response of terrestrial vegetation to climate change during the Paleocene‐Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) have focused on individual sites and sections. To get a broader perspective we compiled published records of terrestrial pollen and spores across the Paleocene‐Eocene transition at 38 sites around the globe. For the 10 sites with quantitative data PETM palynofloras were largely distinct in composition from those in the latest Paleocene or post‐PETM early Eocene. We also inferred paleoclimatic conditions at each site from the distributions of nearest living relatives (NLRs) of fossil pollen taxa among present‐day Köppen climate types. The NLRs of Paleocene high‐paleolatitude palynotaxa are most diverse in cooler climates, whereas the NLRs of PETM taxa are more diverse in warmer, wetter climates. At middle‐paleolatitudes NLRs of Paleocene palynotaxa are most diverse in warm, wet climates, whereas NLRs of PETM palynotaxa are most diverse in warm, seasonally dry climates. In the tropics there is little change from Paleocene to PETM in the climate distributions of NLRs. We compared changes in paleoclimate reconstructed from the Köppen distributions of the NLRs with those simulated from the Community Earth System Model (version CESM1.2). Paleoclimatic changes during the PETM inferred from palynological proxies are mostly consistent with modeled climate changes, including the expansion of temperate climates at the expense of cold climate types at high‐paleolatitudes and the expansion of temperate and tropical climates in middle‐paleolatitudes. Despite this concordance, modeled winter temperatures in continental interiors and high‐paleolatitudes remain colder than those reconstructed from NLR distributions.
Hidden Upwelling Systems May Be Overlooked Branches of Ocean Circulation
Authors: Scammell Alexandra
Published: April 2022

New research suggests that overlooked upwelling systems in western boundary currents play a role in transporting nutrients, carbon, and heat in the global ocean.
The effect of intranasal insulin on appetite and mood in women with and without obesity: an experimental medicine study
Authors: Schneider Elizabeth , Spetter Maartje S. , Martin Elizabeth , Sapey Elizabeth , Yip Kay Por , Manolopoulos Konstantinos N. , Tahrani Abd A. , Thomas Jason M. , Lee Michelle , Hallschmid Manfred , Rotshtein Pia , Dourish Colin T. , Higgs Suzanne
Published: April 2022

Background/Objectives

Intranasal (IN) administration of insulin decreases appetite in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear, and it is unknown whether IN insulin affects the food intake of women with obesity.

Subjects/Methods

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design, participants (35 lean women and 17 women with obesity) were randomized to receive 160 IU/1.6 mL of IN insulin or placebo in a counterbalanced order in the post prandial state. The effects of IN insulin on cookie intake, appetite, mood, food reward, cognition and neural activity were assessed.

Results

IN insulin in the post prandial state reduced cookie intake, appetite and food reward relative to placebo and these effects were more pronounced for women with obesity compared with lean women. IN insulin also improved mood in women with obesity. In both BMI groups, IN insulin increased neural activity in the insula when viewing food pictures. IN insulin did not affect cognitive function.

Conclusions

These results suggest that IN insulin decreases palatable food intake when satiated by reducing food reward and that women with obesity may be more sensitive to this effect than lean women. Further investigation of the therapeutic potential of IN insulin for weight management in women with obesity is warranted.
Angiotensin II related glial cell activation and necroptosis of retinal ganglion cells after systemic hypotension in glaucoma
Authors: Jeon Soo Ji , Huh Jungbin , Jeong Eojin , Park Chan Kee , Park Hae Young Lopilly
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to design an animal model mimicking glaucoma with hemodynamic instability and to identify involvement of angiotensin II (AngII) and associated changes of the retina. Systemic hypotension was induced in Sprague–Dawley rats by oral hydrochlorothiazide administration. Rats were sacrificed at 4, 8, and 12-week time points. AngII and receptor levels were examined in the serum and retina. To examine the relationship between glia activation and associated RGC death, biochemical analysis of GFAP, Iba-1, and necroptosis associated factors such as TNFα, receptor-interacting protein (RIP) 1, 3, and inactive caspase 8 were explored. To investigate the difference in RGC death mechanism, JNK inhibitor or RIP3 inhibitor were given intraperitoneally to rats with ocular hypertension and systemic hypotension both to identify the pathway mainly involved. AngII and receptors were increased in the serum and retina of systemic hypotensive rat. At 4, 8, and 12 weeks after hypotension induction, glial activation was increased as indicated by GFAP and Iba-1 staining. TNFα, RIP3 were elevated. and downregulation of inactive caspase 8 was apparent in the retina of hypotensive rat. Electron microscopy revealed that necroptosis of RGC was gradually increased after systemic hypotension. Following intraperitoneal JNK inhibitor or RIP3 inhibitor administration, RGC loss was attenuated in systemic hypotensive rats but not in ocular hypertensive rats. In conclusion, AngII is involved in glial activation and associated RGC necroptosis following systemic hypotension. This pathway represents a novel and distinct cell death mechanism when compared to that involved in elevated intraocular pressure.
Simvastatin rescues memory and granule cell maturation through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tong Xin-Kang , Royea Jessika , Hamel Edith
Published: April 2022

We previously showed that simvastatin (SV) restored memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer disease (AD) concomitantly with normalization in protein levels of memory-related immediate early genes in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Here, we investigated age-related changes in the hippocampal memory pathway, and whether the beneficial effects of SV could be related to enhanced neurogenesis and signaling in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. APP mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls showed comparable number of proliferating (Ki67-positive nuclei) and immature (doublecortin (DCX)-positive) granule cells in the dentate gyrus until 3 months of age. At 4 months, Ki67 or DCX positive cells decreased sharply and remained less numerous until the endpoint (6 months) in both SV-treated and untreated APP mice. In 6 month-old APP mice, dendritic extensions of DCX immature neurons in the molecular layer were shorter, a deficit fully normalized by SV. Similarly, whereas mature granule cells (calbindin-immunopositive) were decreased in APP mice and not restored by SV, their dendritic arborizations were normalized to control levels by SV treatment. SV increased Prox1 protein levels (↑67.7%,p < 0.01), a Wnt/β-catenin signaling target, while significantly decreasing (↓61.2%,p < 0.05) the upregulated levels of the β-catenin-dependent Wnt pathway inhibitor DKK1 seen in APP mice. In APP mice, SV benefits were recapitulated by treatment with the Wnt/β-catenin specific agonist WAY-262611, whereas they were fully abolished in mice that received the Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor XAV939 during the last month of SV treatment. Our results indicate that activation of the Wnt-β-catenin pathway through downregulation of DKK1 underlies SV neuronal and cognitive benefits.