bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Afuzzyanalytical hierarchy process framework for stock selection in the Indian stock market
Authors: Jain Jinesh , Walia Nidhi , Gupta Sanjay , Aggarwal Kriti , Singh Simarjeet
Published: June 2021

The present study aims at ranking the various factors which affect the stock selection decisions of retail investors in the Indian stock market. Further, the research provides valuable insights into the different factors that affect the stock selection decisions of the equity investors. For this purpose, the data were collected from 168 retail equity investors dealing in the Indian Stock Market. “Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process” was applied to rank the various factors affecting the stock selection decision of Individual equity investors trading in the Indian Stock Market. The primary factors considered for the study are accounting information, ownership structure, company‐specific attributes, image of the company/board of directors, fundamentals of stock, trading opportunities, and sensitivity of stock and behavioral factors. The findings of the study revealed that behavioral factors, trading opportunities, and accounting information were the three most influential criteria. The five most influential sub‐criteriums were, “I invest in those stocks which are affordable in terms of price (C52),” “I invest in the company's stock based on the recent price movement of stock (C51),” “I select the stock based on the sensitivity of company's stock performance to overall market performance (C62),” “I invest in the stock based on the trend of major indices (C61),” and “I prefer to invest in stocks which are evaluated by well‐known experts (C80).” The present research has been carried out on a limited sample size which truly represented the total population; still, it is considered as the limitation of the study. The outcome of this research will provide investors with a better understanding of various factors that influence their stock selection decision. The study provides them a guideline on different factors; they should take into consideration, while undergoing the stock selection decision. The present research study enriches the literature on behavior finance from emerging markets.
Low‐frequency nanocomposite piezoelectric energy harvester with embedded zinc oxide nanowires
Authors: Meschino Mark , Wang Lingyun , Xu Haitong , Moradi‐Dastjerdi Rasool , Behdinan Kamran
Published: June 2021

Sweeping developments in microelectromechanical systems and low power electronics have pushed the need for piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs). Increasing environmental and biocompatibility issues have drawn interest in lead‐free piezoelectric materials. In this paper, cantilever‐type PEHs at centimeter scale have been proposed to harvest the energies of low‐frequency vibrations caused by a human's movements. The proposed PEHs are made of a passive PDMS substrate sandwiched between two active nanocomposite layers with embedded piezoelectric zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires. Moreover, two different morphologies including PEHs with constant and tapered thicknesses have been considered. The material properties of such piezoelectric nanocomposites are calculated by an electromechanical model. Afterward, these novel PEHs have been developed in COMSOL Multiphysics and their static and dynamic performances have been investigated. The static study shows that tapered PEHs endures lower stresses. However, the dynamic study discloses that the rectangular design outperforms the tapered one in electrical power and resonance frequency. It is found that the rectangular design can produce 4.1623 μW at the resonant frequency of 25.8 Hz.
Improving interfacial strength of epoxy composites by constructing “palm‐tree”‐like structure on carbon fiber
Authors: Lu Zhaohui , Li Muxuan , Liang Mei , Chen Yang , Zou Huawei , Ren Xiancheng
Published: June 2021

Modified graphene oxide (GO)/carbon fiber (CF)/epoxy (EP) composites are prepared by combining grafting and sizing methods. The effects of different molecular chain lengths of poly(oxypropylene)amines on the surface grafting of GO, as well as the interfacial structure and properties of CF and EP resin after sizing, were investigated. The “palm‐tree”‐like structure interfacial enhancement theory was innovatively proposed. The characterization results showed that the short‐chain poly(oxypropylene)amines modified GO (D400‐GO) had a good effect on the interfacial properties of CF and EP resin. When the content of D400‐GO was 0.20 wt%, the interfacial shear strength was as high as 70.56 MPa, which was 37% higher than the virgin CF. In this article, a new theoretical model is proposed for multiscale interfacial enhancement.
The many etiologies of nonimmune hydrops fetalis diagnosed by exome sequencing
Authors: Wagner Tova , Fahham Duha , Frumkin Ayala , Shaag Avraham , Yagel Simcha , Yanai Nili , Porat Shay , Mor‐Shaked Hagar , Meiner Vardiella , Daum Hagit
Published: June 2021

Objective

To explain the importance of identifying an etiology for the pathological finding of nonimmune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) and to explore the impact of exome sequencing in recurrent NIHF. In addition, we present two cases of pregnancies affected with recurrent NIHF, in which genetic investigation was advantageous.

Methods

Our study aimed to investigate the genetic background, if available, of all fetuses with NIHF referred to our tertiary medical center from January 2013 to August 2020. We summarized the etiology of NIHF if known, sonographic findings, genetic investigation and the pregnancies' outcomes.

Results

We encountered 144 families with NIHF. Genetic investigation was performed by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) in 63 (63/144. 44%) fetuses. Seventeen of 63 (27%) had a positive CMA result. In the negative CMA group, 15 (15/46, 33%) opted for exome sequencing, of which seven exomes were positive (47%). Among these, there were four couples with recurrent pregnancies affected by hydrops. Among the remaining 11 exome investigations for non‐recurrent hydrops, another three were diagnostic.

Conclusion

As identifying the etiology of the NIHF is an invaluable tool for the prognosis of the pregnancy, exome sequencing can provide further elucidation of the underlying pathogenesis of NIHF. Thus, genetic investigation should be recommended for cases of NIHF.
A reasoned approach towards administering COVID‐19 vaccines to pregnant women
Authors: Pramanick Angsumita , Kanneganti Abhiram , Wong Jing Lin Jeslyn , Li Sarah Weiling , Dimri Pooja Sharma , Mahyuddin Aniza Puteri , Kumar Sailesh , Illanes Sebastian Enrique , Chan Jerry Kok Yen , Su Lin Lin , Biswas Arijit , Tambyah Paul Anantharajah , Huang Ruby Yun‐Ju , Mattar Citra Nurfarah Zaini , Choolani Mahesh
Published: June 2021

There are over 50 SARS‐CoV‐2 candidate vaccines undergoing Phase II and III clinical trials. Several vaccines have been approved by regulatory authorities and rolled out for use in different countries. Due to concerns of potential teratogenicity or adverse effect on maternal physiology, pregnancy has been a specific exclusion criterion for most vaccine trials with only two trials not excluding pregnant women. Thus, other than limited animal studies, gradually emerging development and reproductive toxicity data, and observational data from vaccine registries, there is a paucity of reliable information to guide recommendations for the safe vaccination of pregnant women. Pregnancy is a risk factor for severe COVID‐19, especially in women with comorbidities, resulting in increased rates of preterm birth and maternal morbidity. We discuss the major SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines, their mechanisms of action, efficacy, safety profile and possible benefits to the maternal‐fetal dyad to create a rational approach towards maternal vaccination while anticipating and mitigating vaccine‐related complications. Pregnant women with high exposure risks or co‐morbidities predisposing to severe COVID‐19 infection should be prioritised for vaccination. Those with risk factors for adverse effects should be counselled accordingly. It is essential to support patient autonomy by shared decision‐making involving a risk‐benefit discussion with the pregnant woman.
Non‐invasive prenatal testing in the management of twin pregnancies
Authors: Benn Peter , Rebarber Andrei
Published: June 2021

Twin pregnancies are common and associated with pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes. Prenatal clinical management is intensive and has been hampered by inferior screening and less acceptable invasive testing. For aneuploidy screening, meta‐analyses show that non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) through analysis of cell‐free DNA (cf‐DNA) is superior to serum and ultrasound‐based tests. The positive predictive value for NIPT is driven strongly by the discriminatory power of the assay and only secondarily by the prior risk. Uncertainties in a priori risks for aneuploidies in twin pregnancies are therefore of lesser importance with NIPT. Additional information on zygosity can be obtained using NIPT. Establishing zygosity can be helpful when chorionicity was not reliably established early in pregnancy or where the there is a concern for one versus two affected fetuses. In dizygotic twin pregnancies, individual fetal fractions can be measured to ensure that both values are satisfactory. Vanishing twins can be identified by NIPT. Although clinical utility of routinely detecting vanishing twins has not yet been demonstrated, there are individual cases where cf‐DNA analysis could be helpful in explaining unusual clinical or laboratory observations. We conclude that cf‐DNA analysis and ultrasound have synergistic roles in the management of multiple gestational pregnancies.
Genotype‐dependent and heat‐induced grain chalkiness in rice correlates with the expression patterns of starch biosynthesis genes
Authors: Gann Peter James , Esguerra Manuel , Counce Paul Allen , Srivastava Vibha
Published: June 2021

Starch biosynthesis is a complex process underlying grain chalkiness in rice in a genotype‐dependent manner. Coordinated expression of starch biosynthesis genes is important for producing translucent rice grains, while disruption in this process leads to opaque or chalky grains. To better understand the dynamics of starch biosynthesis genes in grain chalkiness, six rice genotypes showing variable chalk levels were subjected to gene expression analysis during reproductive stages. In the chalky genotypes, peak expression of the large subunit genes of ADP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase), encoding the first key step in starch biosynthesis, occurred in the stages before grain filling commenced, creating a gap with the upregulation of starch synthase genes, granule bound starch synthase I (GBSSI) and starch synthase IIA (SSIIA). Whereas, in low‐chalk genotypes, AGPase large subunit genes expressed at later stages, generally following the expression patterns of GBSSI and SSIIA. However, heat treatment altered the expression in a genotype‐dependent manner that was accompanied by transformed grain morphology and increased chalkiness. The suppression of AGPase subunit genes during early grain filling stages was observed in the chalky genotypes or upon heat treatment, which could result in a limited pool of ADP‐Glucose for synthesizing amylose and amylopectin, the major components of the starch. This suboptimal starch biosynthesis process could subsequently lead to inefficient grain filling and air pockets that contribute to chalkiness. In summary, this study suggests a mechanism of grain chalkiness based on the expression patterns of the starch biosynthesis genes in rice.
Impact of CYP3A5 phenotype on tacrolimus time in therapeutic range and clinical outcomes in pediatric renal and heart transplant recipients
Authors: Leino Abbie D. , Park Jeong M. , Pasternak Amy L.
Published: June 2021

Study Objective

This study investigated the effect of CYP3A5 phenotype on time in therapeutic range (TTR) of tacrolimus post‐transplant in pediatric patients.

Design and Data Source

This retrospective study assessed medical records of pediatric kidney and heart recipients with available CYP3A5 genotype for tacrolimus dosing, troughs, and the clinical events (biopsy‐proven acute rejection [BPAR] and de novo donor‐specific antibodies [dnDSA]).

Measurements and Main Results

The primary outcome, mean TTR in the first 90 days post‐transplant, was 9.0% (95% CI: −16.1, −1.9) lower in CYP3A5 expressers (p = 0.014) when adjusting for time to therapeutic concentration and organ type. There was no difference between CYP3A5 phenotypes in time to the first clinical event using TTR during the first 90 days. When applying TTR over the first year, there was a significant difference in event‐free survival (EFS) which was 50.0% for CYP3A5 expressers/TTR < 35%, 45.5% for expressers/TTR ≥ 35%, 38.1% for nonexpressers/TTR < 35%, and 72.9% for nonexpressers/TTR ≥ 35% (log‐rank p = 0.03). A post hoc analysis of EFS identified CYP3A5 expressers had lower EFS compared to nonexpressers in patients with TTR ≥ 35% (p = 0.04) but no difference among patients with TTR < 35% (p = 0.6).

Conclusions

The relationship between TTR and CYP3A5 phenotype suggests that achieving a TTR ≥ 35% during the first year may be a modifiable factor to attenuate the risk of BPAR and dnDSA.
Therapeutic review of cabotegravir/rilpivirine long‐acting antiretroviral injectable and implementation considerations at an HIV specialty clinic
Authors: Howe Zach W. , Norman Sarah , Lueken Abbie F. , Huesgen Emily , Farmer Eric K. , Jarrell Kaitlyn , Mathis Joscelyn E. , Bonham Kyle W. , Hahn Julie
Published: June 2021

Cabotegravir/rilpivirine (CAB/RPV) was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the first complete parenteral antiretroviral (ART) regimen for treatment of people living with HIV (PLWH). As a monthly intramuscular (IM) injection, this therapy constitutes a major departure from the traditional paradigm of oral therapy requiring (at least) daily administration that has defined HIV treatment for decades. Composed of a second‐generation integrase inhibitor (INSTI) and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), CAB/RPV has achieved high rates of sustained virologic suppression with a favorable safety profile for treatment‐experienced PLWH following oral lead‐in (OLI) during several clinical trials. In addition to the clinical benefits of this agent, patient‐reported outcomes associated with convenience, confidentiality, and the tolerability of the injections have consistently reflected positive perceptions of CAB/RPV. The novel nature of this therapy in the field of HIV presents logistical challenges. Clinics will need to address barriers related to management of clinic workflow, procurement, reimbursement, and nonadherence. The aim of this review was to summarize the available safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) data of this long‐acting (LA) injectable regimen as well as discuss some potential considerations for prescribing and operationalization.
Poly(ether imide)s with tailored end groups
Authors: Cao Ke , Xu Zhen , Guo Dong , Liu Guoliang
Published: June 2021

Poly(ether imide) (PEI) from polycondensation of 2,2‐bis[4‐(3,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy) phenyl] propane dianhydride (BPADA) and m‐phenylenediamine (mPD) is a type of high‐temperature engineering thermoplastics that have high glass transition temperature and outstanding mechanical properties. Owing to its wide use in many fields including automotive, aircraft, and electronics, the research of PEI has surged in the last few decades. As science and technology continue to progress rapidly, there is a growing demand for PEIs with better properties. Although a few approaches have successfully improved the properties of PEI, it is recognized that these approaches require complex procedures and are uneconomical. Contrastingly, end‐group modification of PEI is highly effective, simple, and economical. Over the last few years, our group has extensively studied the methods for improving the properties of PEI through end‐group modification. The end‐group moieties and polymer blocks introduce multiple hydrogen bonding, electrostatics, and microphase separation to PEI. In this article, we first classify the end groups based on their characteristics. Then, we compare their effects on the properties of PEIs, including thermal, rheological, mechanical, optical, flame‐retardant, and morphological, and discuss the roots of these effects. The in‐depth comparisons and discussion generate principles to guide the synthesis of PEIs with tailored properties by modifying the end groups. This timely article will provide insights into the synthesis of other novel high‐temperature polymers and entice endeavors to develop novel end groups.
Markers of cholesterol synthesis to cholesterol absorption across the spectrum of non‐dialysis CKD: An observational study
Authors: Emrich Insa E. , Heine Gunnar H. , Schulze P. Christian , Rogacev Kyrill S. , Fliser Danilo , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Böhm Michael , Lütjohann Dieter , Weingärtner Oliver
Published: June 2021

In dialysis patients, cholesterol‐lowering therapy with statins is less effective than in other high‐risk patients. This may be explained by a shift from cholesterol synthesis toward cholesterol absorption. In line, markers of cholesterol absorption—such as campesterol—better predict atherosclerotic cardiovascular events than markers of cholesterol synthesis—such as lathosterol—in dialysis patients. To test the association between markers of cholesterol absorption such as campesterol—and markers of cholesterol synthesis—such as lathosterol—against cardiovascular events in non‐dialysis CKD patients. Altogether 251 patients not on lipid‐lowering agents were followed annually for the composite endpoint atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and all‐cause death. During follow‐up of 5.2 ± 2.1 years, 61 participants reached the primary endpoint atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease/all‐cause death [ASCVD/D], 47 participants suffered from ASCVD, and 46 participants died. In univariate Cox regression analysis, campesterol/lathosterol ratio did not significantly predict ASCVD/D (HR 0.643; 0.358–1.155; 3rd vs. 1st tertile), all‐cause death (HR 1.309; 0.604–2.838; 3rd vs. 1st tertile) nor ASCVD (HR 0.589; 0.311–1.118; 3rd vs. 1st tertile). We did not observe a shift from cholesterol synthesis to cholesterol absorption across the spectrum of non‐dialysis CKD. Campesterol/lathosterol ratio did not predict future ASCVD or all‐cause death in non‐dialysis CKD.
Declines and pronounced regional disparities in meperidine use in the United States
Authors: Boyle John M. , McCall Kenneth L. , Nichols Stephanie D. , Piper Brian J.
Published: June 2021

There have been increasing concerns about adverse effects and drug interactions with meperidine. The goal of this study was to characterize meperidine use in the United States. Meperidine distribution data were obtained from the Drug Enforcement Administration's Automated of Reports and Consolidated Orders System. The Medicare Part D Prescriber Public Use File was utilized to capture overall trends in national prescriptions in this observational report. Nationally, meperidine distribution decreased by 94.6% from 2001 to 2019. In 2019, Arkansas, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi saw significantly greater distribution when compared with the US state average of 9.27 mg per 10 persons (SD = 6.82). Meperidine distribution showed an 18‐fold difference between the highest state (Arkansas = 36.8 mg) and lowest state (Minnesota = 2.1 mg). Five of the six states with the lowest distribution were in the Northeast. Meperidine distribution per state was correlated with the prevalence of adult obesity (r(48) = +0.48, p < .001). Family medicine and internal medicine physicians accounted for 28.9% and 20.5%, respectively, of meperidine total daily supply (TDS) in 2017. Interventional pain management (5.66) and pain management (3.48) physicians accounted for the longest TDS per provider. The use of meperidine declined over the last two decades. Meperidine varied by geographic region with south‐central states, and those with more obesity, showing greater distribution. Primary care doctors continue to account for the majority of meperidine daily supply. Increasing knowledge of meperidine's undesirable adverse effects like seizures and serious drug–drug interactions is likely responsible for these pronounced reductions.
Carrageenan nasal spray may double the rate of recovery from coronavirus and influenza virus infections: Re‐analysis of randomized trial data
Authors: Hemilä Harri , Chalker Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

In this individual patient data meta‐analysis we examined datasets of two randomized placebo‐controlled trials which investigated the effect of nasal carrageenan separately on children and adults. In both trials, iota‐carrageenan was administered nasally three times per day for 7 days for patients with the common cold and follow‐up lasted for 21 days. We used Cox regression to estimate the effect of carrageenan on recovery rate. We also used quantile regression to calculate the effect of carrageenan on colds of differing lengths. Nasal carrageenan increased the recovery rate from all colds by 54% (95% CI 15%–105%; p = .003). The increase in recovery rate was 139% for coronavirus infections, 119% for influenza A infections, and 70% for rhinovirus infections. The mean duration of all colds in the placebo groups of the first four quintiles were 4.0, 6.8, 8.8, and 13.7 days, respectively. The fifth quintile contained patients with censored data. The 13.7‐day colds were shortened by 3.8 days (28% reduction), and 8.8‐day colds by 1.3 days (15% reduction). Carrageenan had no meaningful effect on shorter colds. In the placebo group, 21 patients had colds lasting over 20 days, compared with six patients in the carrageenan group, which corresponds to a 71% (p = .003) reduction in the risk of longer colds. Given that carrageenan has an effect on diverse virus groups, and effects at the clinical level on two old coronaviruses, it seems plausible that carrageenan may have an effect on COVID‐19. Further research on nasal iota‐carrageenan is warranted.
Monitoring combined multivariate process approaching hybrid kernel‐CUSUM analysis
Authors: Atashgar Karim , Saeedian Faeze , NamAvar Zahra
Published: June 2021

In some complicated cases, a multivariate process/product can be characterized better by a combined technical specification vector. A combined technical specification vector is referred to as the case that the quality of a process/product is evaluated by different continuous and discrete random variables at the same time. In this case that there is also the covariance condition, the vector could not follow a single joint distribution. This research approaching kernel method and support vector data description (SVDD) proposes a new multivariate cumulative scheme named MK‐CUSUM to monitor the random vector of a process/product with combined technical specifications. The numerical analysis indicates that the proposed scheme is capable of detecting out‐of‐control conditions effectively when the process experiences different shifts in the random mean vector. The comparative performance report addresses that the proposed scheme is superior compared to the models of literature.
Minimization of constraint violation probability in model predictive control
Authors: Brüdigam Tim , Gaßmann Victor , Wollherr Dirk , Leibold Marion
Published: June 2021

For Model Predictive Control in safety‐critical systems it is not only important to bound the probability of constraint violation but to reduce this constraint violation probability as much as possible. Therefore, an approach is necessary that minimizes the constraint violation probability while ensuring that the Model Predictive Control optimization problem remains feasible even under changing uncertainty. We propose a novel two‐step Model Predictive Control scheme that yields a solution with minimal constraint violation probability for a norm constraint in an environment with uncertainty. After minimal constraint violation is guaranteed, the solution is then also optimized with respect to other control objectives. Recursive feasibility and convergence of the method are proved. A simulation demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method for a collision avoidance example.
Finite‐time formation control and obstacle avoidance of multi‐agent system with application
Authors: Shou Yingxin , Xu Bin , Lu Haibo , Zhang Aidong , Mei Tao
Published: June 2021

The finite‐time formation tracking control is investigated for a multi‐agent system (MAS) with obstacle avoidance. For the collision and obstacle avoidance problem in the formation process, the artificial potential field is used as the formation planning design, and the virtual structure is adopted to improve the organizational ability of the formation. The trajectory tracking control follows the back‐stepping scheme, and the finite‐time technique is developed in the control design. Considering the dynamics uncertainty of the agent system, a neural network is applied for estimating and the prediction error‐based adaptive law is established to achieve the precise estimation performance. Moreover, the predefined performance function is embedded to satisfy the output constraint. The uniformly ultimate boundedness of the system error signals and the finite‐time convergence of the MAS are guaranteed. The simulation study is performed to validate the proposed control for multiple autonomous underwater vehicles system, while the results manifest that the obstacle avoidance with high‐precision tracking and formation performance will be achieved under the formation trajectory tracking controller.
A catalogue of the flood forecasting practices in the Danube River Basin
Authors: Bezak Nejc , Petan Sašo , Kobold Mira , Brilly Mitja , Bálint Zoltán , Balabanova Snezhanka , Cazac Valeriu , Csík András , Godina Reinhold , Janál Petr , Klemar Željka , Kopáčiková Eva , Liedl Philipp , Matreata Marius , Korniienko Viktoriia , Vladiković Dejan , Šraj Mojca
Published: June 2021

Floods are one of the most devastating natural disasters that can cause large economic damage and endanger human lives. Flood forecasting is one of the flood risk mitigation measures serving to protect human lives and social estate. The Danube River Basin (DRB) is the world's most international river basin, flowing through the territory of 19 countries, covering more than 800,000 km2. The frequency of floods in the DRB increased in the last decades, urging the need for a more effective and harmonized regional and cross‐border cooperation in the field of flood forecasting. Reliable and comprehensive hydrologic data are the basis of flood forecasting. This paper provides an overview of the national flood forecasting systems in the DRB. Detailed information about meteorological and hydrological measurements, flood modelling, forecasting, and flood warnings is provided for 12 countries that cover almost 95% of the total DRB area. Notably, significant differences exist among the countries in terms of the measuring network density, the models used as well as forecasting and warnings methodology. These differences can be attributed to the geographical and climatological setting, political situation, historical forecasting development, etc. It can be seen that there is still much room left for improvements of measurement networks (e.g., density, measured parameters) and models used that could be improved to enhance the flood forecasting in the DRB.
Abiotic soil properties affecting interpretation of IRIS sensors in tidal and freshwater soils
Authors: Romero Jasper , Hino Katelyn , Loffredo Joseph , Stolt Mark , Moseman‐Valtierra Serena , Amador Jose , Pellock Brett
Published: June 2021

Indicator of Reduction in Soils (IRIS) films are visual sensors used to document weakly or moderately reducing conditions in soils based on the reduction and removal of brown manganese (Mn) oxide or orange iron (Fe) oxide paints, respectively, from underlying white polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films. Paint removal is largely assumed to result from anaerobic microbial reduction using metal oxides on the PVC films as electron acceptors. If true, IRIS films could indicate conditions favorable to other biogeochemical processes that occur at similar redox potentials to those facilitating paint removal. Our objective here was to assess the effects of selected abiotic soil properties on IRIS film paint removal to determine whether removal can accurately be attributed to biotic processes alone. Through field deployments and laboratory incubation experiments using IRIS films, we investigated relative sulfide concentration and dissolved organic matter as two abiotic factors potentially capable of removing paint from Mn IRIS films. Our results showed that abundance of reactive soluble sulfides cause rapid and extensive abiotic paint removal from Mn films, whereas ambient concentrations of dissolved organic matter in freshwater wetland porewater does not drive abiotic removal. Furthermore, we found that the visible formation of black iron monosulfides on Fe films can be used to detect sulfide concentrations that will remove paint from Mn films. This study suggests that whereas some abiotic soil properties (e.g., sulfide concentration) can cause paint removal, IRIS films may be a viable tool to approximate biotic process rates where abiotic paint removal can be ruled out.
Embodied interactions in a science museum
Authors: Shaby Neta , Vedder‐Weiss Dana
Published: June 2021

Informal science learning environments, such as science museums, afford a variety of interactions, sense‐making processes, participation modes, and roles. Accumulating research advances our understanding of the cognitive and affective dimensions of science learning in informal environments, including the development of scientific sense‐making and identity. Despite the variety of opportunities informal settings uniquely afford for physical interactions (particularly relatively to classrooms) and the importance of physical interactions in these settings, research of embodied sense‐making and identification in informal settings is scant. In this study, we take a multimodal analysis approach to explore the ways by which visitors' bodies participate in their interactions with each other and with the exhibits at an Israeli science museum. We employ Goodwin's (2007) Embodied Participation Framework to micro‐analyze one episode of three visitors engaging with the Pulleys exhibit. The analysis points to the ways in which the physical design of the exhibit shaped the physical interaction. This interaction included embodied sense‐making that shaped and was shaped by the visitors' embodied positioning and identification. The study advances the understanding of interactions in science museums by directing attention to the physical interaction rather than focusing solely on verbal interaction and thereby highlighting the role of embodiment. It further illustrates the ways in which video‐based field studies coupled with a relevant multimodal analytic framework can explicate the interactional organization of engagement with objects in informal science learning environments.
Resourcification: A non‐essentialist theory of resources for sustainable development
Authors: Corvellec Hervé , Hultman Johan , Jerneck Anne , Arvidsson Susanne , Ekroos Johan , Wahlberg Niklas , Luke Timothy W.
Published: June 2021

Overuse of resources is accelerating current negative trends in climate change, ecosystem destruction, and biodiversity loss. The ultimate outcome is that contemporary human society is reaching or exceeding the limits of planetary boundaries. It is therefore imperative to articulate a new theoretical understanding of resources and the ethical, political, and environmental conditions of their use. In this article, we take a radical departure from treating resources as having fixed, essential and ready to exploit qualities, and offer a non‐essentialist theory that considers that resources come into being as a result of social processes. We label this approach resourcification. This shift offers a new theoretical platform for developing a post‐sustainability understanding of the relationships of humans to humans, to other living creatures, and to the physical environment, one that is more suited to meeting the challenges of working with the sustainable development goals in the Anthropocene.
Explainable artificial intelligence for digital forensics
Authors: Hall Stuart W. , Sakzad Amin , Choo Kim‐Kwang Raymond
Published: June 2021

EXplainable artificial intelligence (XAI) is an emerging research area relating to the creation of machine learning algorithms from which explanations for outputs are provided. In many fields, such as law enforcement, it is necessary that decisions made by and with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI)‐based tools can be justified and explained to a human. We seek to explore the potential of XAI to further enhance triage and analysis of digital forensic evidence, using examples of the current state of the art as a starting point. This opinion letter will discuss both practical and novel ideas as well as controversial points for leveraging XAI to improve the efficacy of digital forensic (DF) analysis and extract forensically sound pieces of evidence (also known as artifacts) that could be used to assist investigations and potentially in a court of law.

This article is categorized under:

Digital and Multimedia Science > Artificial Intelligence

Digital and Multimedia Science > Cybercrime Investigation
Unveiling the original layers and color palette of 18th century overpainted Transylvanian icons by combined X‐ray radiography, hyperspectral imaging, and spectroscopic spot analysis
Authors: Cortea Ioana Maria , Ratoiu Lucian , Chelmuș Alexandru , Mureșan Theo
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the results of an in‐depth diagnostic investigation carried out on four Transylvanian icons originally painted at the beginning of the 18th century and entirely repainted later, in 1911. The icons, originating from a wooden church in Alba County (Romania), were investigated by an array of non‐invasive and micro‐invasive techniques that included: multi‐ and hyperspectral imaging, digital radiography, X‐ray fluorescence, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Combined imaging techniques allowed extraction of information from the original pictorial layer and highlighted the original inscriptions. Spectroscopic analysis carried on micro‐samples identified many traditional pigments used in Byzantine iconography such as: lead white, red lead, orpiment, red ochre, yellow ochre, and umber. The presence of zinc white, Prussian blue, and some chromium‐based pigments in the upper paint layers was directly associated with the repainting. Information on the used painting technique was also obtained, as well as a series of informative technical details that shed light on the complex history of the icons, while offering at the same time new knowledge on the materials and painting techniques used in Transylvanian workshops, between the 18th and 20th century. Overall results allowed characterization and discrimination of the original painting materials and those present in the repainting, and helped conservators with the restoration of the objects.
A two dimensional GdIII coordination polymer based on isonicotinic acid N‐oxide with large magnetocaloric effect
Authors: Wu Dong‐Qing , Zhang Ming‐Liang , Li Zhong‐Yi , Zhang Ping‐Ping , Zhang Meng‐Ying , Wu Chao‐Fei , Zhang Chi , Zhai Bin
Published: June 2021

One two‐dimensional (2D) GdIII coordination polymer based on isonicotinic acid N‐oxide (HINNO), {[Gd(INNO)2(HCOO)] ⋅ 2H2O}n (1), was successfully synthesized and characterized. Magnetic studies reveal the presence of weak antiferromagnetic couplings between adjacent GdIII ions in the 1D chain units of 1 and large cryogenic magnetocaloric effect with maximum −ΔSm of 31.84 J kg−1 K−1 at T=2 K and ΔH=7 T.
Regulation Activities of Teachers in Secondary Schools: Development of a Theoretical Framework and Exploratory Analyses in Four Secondary Schools Based on Time Sampling Data
Authors: Maag Merki Katharina , Grob Urs , Rechsteiner Beat , Wullschleger Andrea , Schori Nathanael , Rickenbacher Ariane
Published: June 2021

Previous research has revealed that teachers’ regulation activities in schools are most relevant for sustainable school improvement. However, previous studies have severe methodological and theoretical shortcomings. This paper presents the results of a mixed-method case study at four lower secondary schools, in which we developed a framework for understanding regulation activities and processes in schools and analyzed teachers’ regulation activities by using time sampling data of teachers’ performance-related and situation-specific day-to-day activities over 3 weeks. Our results revealed that teachers engage in regulation activities only relatively seldom. Significant differences between teachers were found that are systematically related to the teachers’ specific roles in the school. Teachers rated their regulation activities as especially beneficial for teaching, student learning, and teachers’ learning but as less beneficial for team and school development. Small differences between schools were identified. Further, the results revealed significant correlations between teachers’ perceived benefit of the daily activities and teachers’ daily satisfaction. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the newly developed method appears to be suitable for recording teachers’ daily regulation activities in a (relatively) valid manner and, consequently, for use as a complement to existing instruments. Limitations are discussed, and the need for further research is described.
New Ways of Dealing with Lacking Measurement Invariance
Authors: Sauerwein Markus , Theis Désirée
Published: June 2021

In educational research, comparisons are often made of groups or of the development of various (latent) constructs over time (e.g. teaching quality in different countries or different groups’ (girls vs. boys) perceptions of teaching quality). However, before the results of such comparisons can be accurately interpreted, measurement invariance (MI) of the constructs under investigation needs to be established to ensure their meaning remains consistent across groups, subjects, or assessment points. Thus, if mean level changes are to be compared between groups, scalar factorial invariance needs to be established. In this chapter, we investigate and discuss how results of MI analyses should be interpreted and whether they should be reported on with regard to contents. Using data from the well-known Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) study on teaching quality, we introduce an approach to examining the conditions under which comparison among cultural groups is possible even if MI is lacking.
Taking Composition and Similarity Effects into Account: Theoretical and Methodological Suggestions for Analyses of Nested School Data in School Improvement Research
Authors: Schudel Kai , Maag Merki Katharina
Published: June 2021

School improvement research is faced with a school teaching staff, which is not a simple homogeneous entity. The compositional attributes of the teaching staff – such as diversity – can have a crucial influence on school processes. Whether the teaching staff is highly fractured, consists of sharply dissociated subgroups, or has shared beliefs, affects the adoption of school improvement programs differently. However, school improvement research has not yet taken into account what different compositions of the teaching staff mean from a methodological viewpoint. It is true that the use of multilevel analysis is standard in school improvement research and that it considers nested school data. However, this method alone only takes averaged measures of teaching staffs into consideration but not their different compositions. In this contribution, we argue that school improvement research has to consider, theoretically and methodologically, how compositional attributes of the teaching staff can be conceptualized. We first discuss some advancements in the conceptualization of group composition from research on small groups and organizations. We then incorporate suggestions for different diversity typologies from small group research to describe the compositional attributes of the teaching staff. Additionally, we address how the composition of the teaching staff influences each teacher differently, depending on the specific position a teacher has within the teaching staff. We further suggest incorporating the Group Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (GAPIM; Kenny, DA, Garcia RL, Small Group Res 43:468–496, 2012) as a methodological approach for assessing these compositional influences. In addition to classic multilevel analysis, the GAPIM also considers the effects of the other teachers on staff and the similarity and dissimilarity of a teacher to the other members of the teaching staff. Finally, we illustrate the possibilities of the theoretical and methodological endorsements discussed by applying the GAPIM to a data set of 37 German upper secondary schools by way of example. We show that a teacher’s job satisfaction is not only influenced by their individual and collective teacher self-efficacy but also by positional effects: The similarity of a teacher to the other teachers on staff and the similarity among the other members of the teaching staff have additional influences on job satisfaction.
The ABCDEFG of little strings
Authors: Haouzi Nathan , Kozçaz Can
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Starting from type IIB string theory on an ADE singularity, the (2, 0) little string arises when one takes the string coupling gs to 0. In this setup, we give a unified description of the codimension-two defects of the little string, labeled by a simple Lie algebra $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
. Geometrically, these are D5 branes wrapping 2-cycles of the singularity, subject to a certain folding operation when the algebra is non simply-laced. Equivalently, the defects are specified by a certain set of weights of $$ {}^L\mathfrak{g} $$

L

g
, the Langlands dual of $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
. As a first application, we show that the instanton partition function of the $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
-type quiver gauge theory on the defect is equal to a 3-point conformal block of the $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
-type deformed Toda theory in the Coulomb gas formalism. As a second application, we argue that in the (2, 0) CFT limit, the Coulomb branch of the defects flows to a nilpotent orbit of $$ \mathfrak{g} $$
g
.
Inhibitory control in neuronal networks relies on the extracellular matrix integrity
Authors: Dzyubenko Egor , Fleischer Michael , Manrique-Castano Daniel , Borbor Mina , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Faissner Andreas , Hermann Dirk M.
Published: June 2021

Inhibitory control is essential for the regulation of neuronal network activity, where excitatory and inhibitory synapses can act synergistically, reciprocally, and antagonistically. Sustained excitation-inhibition (E-I) balance, therefore, relies on the orchestrated adjustment of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic strength. While growing evidence indicates that the brain’s extracellular matrix (ECM) is a crucial regulator of excitatory synapse plasticity, it remains unclear whether and how the ECM contributes to inhibitory control in neuronal networks. Here we studied the simultaneous changes in excitatory and inhibitory connectivity after ECM depletion. We demonstrate that the ECM supports the maintenance of E-I balance by retaining inhibitory connectivity. Quantification of synapses and super-resolution microscopy showed that depletion of the ECM in mature neuronal networks preferentially decreases the density of inhibitory synapses and the size of individual inhibitory postsynaptic scaffolds. The reduction of inhibitory synapse density is partially compensated by the homeostatically increasing synaptic strength via the reduction of presynaptic GABAB receptors, as indicated by patch-clamp measurements and GABAB receptor expression quantifications. However, both spiking and bursting activity in neuronal networks is increased after ECM depletion, as indicated by multi-electrode recordings. With computational modelling, we determined that ECM depletion reduces the inhibitory connectivity to an extent that the inhibitory synapse scaling does not fully compensate for the reduced inhibitory synapse density. Our results indicate that the brain’s ECM preserves the balanced state of neuronal networks by supporting inhibitory control via inhibitory synapse stabilization, which expands the current understanding of brain activity regulation.

Graphic abstract
Prescribed signal concentration on the boundary: Weak solvability in a chemotaxis-Stokes system with proliferation
Authors: Black Tobias , Wu Chunyan
Published: June 2021

We study a chemotaxis-Stokes system with signal consumption and logistic source terms of the form "Equation missing"where$$\kappa \ge 0$$κ≥0,$$\mu >0$$μ>0and, in contrast to the commonly investigated variants of chemotaxis-fluid systems, the signal concentration on the boundary of the domain$$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^N$$Ω⊂RNwith$$N\in \{2,3\}$$N∈{2,3}is a prescribed time-independent nonnegative function$$c_*\in C^{2}\!\left( {{\,\mathrm{\overline{\Omega }}\,}}\right) $$c∗∈C2Ω¯. Making use of the boundedness information entailed by the quadratic decay term of the first equation, we will show that the system above has at least one global weak solution for any suitably regular triplet of initial data.
Rapid and selective detection of macrocyclic trichothecene producing Stachybotrys chartarum strains by loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)
Authors: Köck Johannes , Gottschalk Christoph , Ulrich Sebastian , Schwaiger Karin , Gareis Manfred , Niessen Ludwig
Published: June 2021

Cytotoxic macrocyclic trichothecenes such as satratoxins are produced by chemotype S strains of Stachybotrys chartarum. Diseases such as stachybotryotoxicosis in animals and the sick building syndrome as a multifactorial disease complex in humans have been associated with this mold and its toxins. Less toxic non-chemotype S strains of S. chartarum are morphologically indistinguishable from chemotype S strains, which results in uncertainties in hazard characterization of isolates. To selectively identify macrocyclic trichothecene producing S. chartarum isolates, a set of sat14 gene-specific primers was designed and applied in a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay using neutral red for visual signal detection. The assay was highly specific for S. chartarum strains of the macrocyclic trichothecene producing chemotype and showed no cross-reaction with non-macrocyclic trichothecene producing S. chartarum strains or 152 strains of 131 other fungal species. The assay’s detection limit was 0.635 pg/rxn (picogram per reaction) with a reaction time of 60 min. Its high specificity and sensitivity as well as the cost-saving properties make the new assay an interesting and powerful diagnostic tool for easy and rapid testing.
Counting tropical rational space curves with cross-ratio constraints
Authors: Goldner Christoph
Published: June 2021

This is a follow-up paper of Goldner (Math Z 297(1–2):133–174, 2021), where rational curves in surfaces that satisfy general positioned point and cross-ratio conditions were enumerated. A suitable correspondence theorem provided in Tyomkin (Adv Math 305:1356–1383, 2017) allowed us to use tropical geometry, and, in particular, a degeneration technique called floor diagrams. This correspondence theorem also holds in higher dimension. In the current paper, we introduce so-called cross-ratio floor diagrams and show that they allow us to determine the number of rational space curves that satisfy general positioned point and cross-ratio conditions. The multiplicities of such cross-ratio floor diagrams can be calculated by enumerating certain rational tropical curves in the plane.