bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vernier effect using in-line highly coupled multicore fibers
Authors: Cuando-Espitia Natanael , Fuentes-Fuentes Miguel A. , Velázquez-Benítez Amado , Amezcua Rodrigo , Hernández-Cordero Juan , May-Arrioja Daniel A.
Published: September 2021

We demonstrate optical fiber sensors based on highly coupled multicore fibers operating with the optical Vernier effect. The sensors are constructed using a simple device incorporating single-mode fibers (SMFs) and a segment of a multicore fiber. In particular, we evaluated the performance of a sensor based on a seven-core fiber (SCF) spliced at both ends to conventional SMFs, yielding a versatile arrangement for realizing Vernier-based fiber sensors. The SMF–SCF–SMF device can be fabricated using standard splicing procedures and serve as a “building block” for both, reflection and transmission sensing configurations. As demonstrated with our experimental results, the Vernier arrangements can yield a ten-fold increase in sensitivity for temperature measurements compared to a conventional single SMF–SCF–SMF device, thereby confirming the enhanced sensitivity that can be attained with this optical effect. Furthermore, through theoretical analysis, we obtain the relevant parameters that must be optimized in order to achieve an optimal sensitivity for a specific application. Our findings thus provide the necessary guidelines for constructing Vernier-based sensors with all-fiber devices based on highly coupled multicore optical fibers, which constitutes an ideal framework to develop highly sensitive fiber sensors for different applications.
Influence of electrical part of traction transmission on dynamic characteristics of railway vehicles based on electromechanical coupling model
Authors: Wang Xun , Peng Tiefeng , Wu Pingbo , Cui Litong
Published: September 2021

With the continuous development of rail transit industry and the acceleration of train speed, higher requirements are established for the operation quality of high-speed trains and the reliability of transmission system. In the process of train running, speed fluctuation and vibrations from various parts of the driving devices are common, which could be greatly affected by the traction torque. During traction transmission, the harmonic vibration torque exists in traction motor due to that the motor is connected with non-sinusoidal alternating current. In order to study the vibration influence of the electrical component of traction transmission system on the rail vehicles, i.e., bogie and car-body, an electro-mechanical coupling dynamic model for rail transit vehicles was established by explicitly incorporating the electric-induced traction into the transmission model. The dynamics responses of the vertical, lateral and longitudinal acceleration on vehicle components, such as axle box and car-body were quantitative analyzed. By comparison with field test, it was observed that there was a vibration peak of 12-times of the fundamental rotor frequency on the bogie frame and axle box, which existed at conditions of traction, uniform speed and braking. However, the vibration acceleration exhibit nearly little difference with or without traction force, especially at low frequency domain < 100 Hz.
Strongly direction-dependent magnetoplasmons in mixed Faraday–Voigt configurations
Authors: Moradi Afshin , Wubs Martijn
Published: September 2021

The electrostatic theory of surface magnetoplasmons on a semi-infinite magnetized electron gas is generalized to mixed Faraday–Voigt configurations. We analyze a mixed Faraday–Voigt type of electrostatic surface waves that is strongly direction-dependent, and may be realized on narrow-gap semiconductors in the THz regime. A general expression for the dispersion relation is presented, with its dependence on the magnitude and orientation of the applied magnetic field. Remarkably, the group velocity is always perpendicular to the phase velocity. Both velocity and energy relations of the found magnetoplasmons are discussed in detail. In the appropriate limits the known surface magnetoplasmons in the higher-symmetry Faraday and Voigt configurations are recovered.
Development of the first axillary in vitro shoot multiplication protocol for coconut palms
Authors: Wilms Hannes , De Bièvre Dries , Longin Kevin , Swennen Rony , Rhee Juhee , Panis Bart
Published: September 2021

The coconut palm or “tree of life” is one of nature’s most useful plants and the demand for its fruit is increasing. However, coconut production is threatened by ageing plantations, pests and diseases. Currently, the palm is exclusively propagated via seeds, limiting the amount of planting material. A novel micropropagation method is presented, based on axillary shoot formation. Apical meristems of in vitro coconut seedlings are cultured onto Y3 medium containing 1 µM TDZ. This induces the apical meristem to proliferate through axillary shoots in ~ 27% of the initiated explants. These axillary shoots are seen as white clumps of proliferating tissue and can be multiplied at a large scale or regenerated into rooted in vitro plantlets. This innovative micropropagation method will enable the production of disease-free, high quality in vitro plantlets, which will solve the worldwide scarcity of coconut planting material.
Study on layout optimization of sewage outfalls: a case study of wastewater treatment plants in Xiamen
Authors: Wang Cui , Guo Zhouhua , Li Qingsheng , Fang Jing
Published: September 2021

In order to protect the offshore environment and strengthen the comprehensive rectification of sewage outfalls, an evaluation method of regional sewage outfalls by combining the marine numerical simulation and comprehensive evaluation technology was constructed, considering the marine environmental capacity and the ecological impact of sewage discharge from outfalls on the marine eco-environment sensitive areas. Then the layout rationality of each outfall was evaluated and the discharge scale was optimized with a case study of existing sewage outfalls in Xiamen. The results show that, the comprehensive evaluation score of Yundang outfall was 3 points in 2025, evaluated as the outfall with irrational layout. In 2035, the comprehensive evaluation scores of Fenglin and Dalipu outfalls were 3 and 2 points respectively, evaluated as the outfall with irrational discharge scale. It is suggested to control the scale of expansion or increase the reclaimed water reuse rate in Jimei and Gaoqi Wastewater Treatment Plants. This method has enriched the evaluation system for layout optimization of sewage outfalls, providing scientific supports for comprehensive improvement of sewage outfalls and marine environmental management.
Interplay between membrane active host defense peptides and heme modulates their assemblies and in vitro activity
Authors: Juhász Tünde , Quemé-Peña Mayra , Kővágó Bence , Mihály Judith , Ricci Maria , Horváti Kata , Bősze Szilvia , Zsila Ferenc , Beke-Somfai Tamás
Published: September 2021

In the emerging era of antimicrobial resistance, the susceptibility to co-infections of patients suffering from either acquired or inherited hemolytic disorders can lead to dramatic increase in mortality rates. Closely related, heme liberated during hemolysis is one of the major sources of iron, which is vital for both host and invading microorganisms. While recent intensive research in the field has demonstrated that heme exerts diverse local effects including impairment of immune cells functions, it is almost completely unknown how it may compromise key molecules of our innate immune system, such as antimicrobial host defense peptides (HDPs). Since HDPs hold great promise as natural therapeutic agents against antibiotic-resistant microbes, understanding the effects that may modulate their action in microbial infection is crucial. Here we explore how hemin can interact directly with selected HDPs and influence their structure and membrane activity. It is revealed that induced helical folding, large assembly formation, and altered membrane activity is promoted by hemin. However, these effects showed variations depending mainly on peptide selectivity toward charged lipids, and the affinity of the peptide and hemin to lipid bilayers. Hemin-peptide complexes are sought to form semi-folded co-assemblies, which are present even with model membranes resembling mammalian or bacterial lipid compositions. In vitro cell-based toxicity assays supported that toxic effects of HDPs could be attenuated due to their assembly formation. These results are in line with our previous findings on peptide-lipid-small molecule systems suggesting that small molecules present in the complex in vivo milieu can regulate HDP function. Inversely, diverse effects of endogenous compounds could also be manipulated by HDPs.
Differences and similarities in the conceptualization of COVID-19 and other diseases in the first Italian lockdown
Authors: Mazzuca Claudia , Falcinelli Ilenia , Michalland Arthur-Henri , Tummolini Luca , Borghi Anna M.
Published: September 2021

Several studies have highlighted the flexible character of our conceptual system. However, less is known about the construction of meaning and the impact of novel concepts on the structuring of our conceptual space. We addressed these questions by collecting free listing data from Italian participants on a newly–and yet nowadays critical–introduced concept, i.e., COVID-19, during the first Italian lockdown. We also collected data for other five illness-related concepts. Our results show that COVID-19’s representation is mostly couched in the emotional sphere, predominantly evoking fear—linked to both possible health-related concerns and social-emotional ones. In contrast with initial public debates we found that participants did not assimilate COVID-19 neither completely to severe illnesses (e.g., tumor) nor completely to mild illnesses (e.g., flu). Moreover, we also found that COVID-19 has shaped conceptual relations of other concepts in the illness domain, making certain features and associations more salient (e.g., flu-fear; disease-mask). Overall, our results show for the first time how a novel, real concept molds existing conceptual relations, testifying the malleability of our conceptual system.
Integrative pan-cancer analysis of MEK1 aberrations and the potential clinical implications
Authors: Zhou Zhiyang , Peng Bi , Li Juanni , Gao Kewa , Cai Yuan , Xu Zhijie , Yan Yuanliang
Published: September 2021

Alterations of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1) are commonly associated with tumorigenesis, and MEK1 is thought to be a suitable targeted therapy for various cancers. However, abnormal MEK1 alterations and their relevant clinical implications are unknown. Our research comprehensively analyzed the MEK1 alteration spectrum and provided novel insight for targeted therapies. There were 7694 samples covering 32 types of cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. They were used to conduct an integrative analysis of MEK1 expression, alterations, functional impacts and clinical significance. There was a dramatic difference in the alteration frequency and distribution and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer from the TCGA. Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) has the most alterations and has therapeutic targets located in the protein kinase domain, and the growing expression of SKCM is positively related to patient prognosis. MEK1 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma (KIRP), esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) and liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is decreased, which is associated with better prognosis, while MEK1 expression in thymoma (THYM), stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) is increased, which is associated with better prognosis. Mesothelioma (MESO) has the second highest alterations but has no therapy targets. This study provided a great and detailed interpretation of MEK1 expression, alterations and clinical implications in 32 types of cancer and reminded us to fill the gap in MEK1 research from a new perspective.
Entropy optimization and heat transfer analysis in MHD Williamson nanofluid flow over a vertical Riga plate with nonlinear thermal radiation
Authors: Rooman Muhammad , Jan Muhammad Asif , Shah Zahir , Kumam Poom , Alshehri Ahmed
Published: September 2021

The entropy generation for a reactive Williamson nanofluid flow past a vertical Riga system is the subject of this article. The effects of MHD, thermophoresis, nonlinear heat radiation and varying heat conductivity are modeled into the heat equation in the established model. Suitable similarity transformations are examined to bring down the partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations. The Homotopy analysis approach is used to solve the dimensionless transport equations analytically. The graphic information of the various parameters that emerged from the model is effectively collected and deliberated. The temperature field expands with thermophoresis, Brownian motion and temperature ratio parameters as the modified Hartmann number forces an increase in velocity, according to the findings of this analysis. With the increase in the fluid material terms, the entropy generation and Bejan number increase. Riga plate has numerous applications in improving the thermo-physics features of a fluid, the value of magnetic field embraces an important role in fluid mechanics. An external electric field can be used to control flow in weak electrically conductive fluids. The Riga plate is one of the devices used in this regard. It’s a device that creates electromagnetic fields. They produce the Lorentz force which is a force that directs fluid flow. The authors have discussed the entropy optimization for a reactive Williamson nanofluid flow past a vertical Riga plate is addressed. This is the first investigation on mass and heat transfer flow that the authors are aware of, and no similar work has yet been published in the literature. A thorough mathematical examination is also required to demonstrate the model’s regularity. The authors believe that the results acquired are novel and have not been plagiarized from any other sources.
Current contrasting population trends among North American hummingbirds
Authors: English Simon G. , Bishop Christine A. , Wilson Scott , Smith Adam C.
Published: September 2021

As pollinators, hummingbirds play a critical role for both the function of ecological communities and in providing ecosystem services for people. To examine the conservation status of North American hummingbirds, we analyzed Breeding Bird Survey data for 8 species and 3 genera from 1970 to 2019 (long-term) and from 2009 to 2019 (short-term, approximately three generations). Among the Selasphorus genus, Allen’s, rufous, and broad-tailed hummingbirds have declined since 1970, and the rate of decline increased from 2009 to 2019. Contrasting the trends from the past half-century, ruby-throated hummingbirds of Eastern North America have declined since approximately 2004 throughout most of the species’ breeding range. In contrast, Anna’s hummingbird populations have increased dramatically since 1970 in their range in western North America. We also tested whether apparent declines might be due to a growing mismatch between the timing of breeding and the timing of BBS surveys. We found no evidence for such an effect, thus supporting the hypothesis that trends reflect true demographic change. Our analyses and geographic modelling highlight the urgent need of regulatory action to conserve hummingbirds uniquely capable of filling their niche in North America.
Corrosion mitigation of mild steel in hydrochloric acid solution using grape seed extract
Authors: Marhamati Fatemeh , Mahdavian Mohammad , Bazgir Saeed
Published: September 2021

Plant extracts have gained a lot of attention due to their ecofriendly nature for corrosion inhibition. In this study, we examined the inhibition performance of grape seed extract as an eco-environmental inhibitor for mild steel in hydrochloric acid medium. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical noise techniques were employed to study mild steel's electrochemical behavior in the hydrochloric acid solutions containing grape seed extract. Results depicted that grape seed extract could successfully inhibit the corrosion of mild steel. Besides, water droplet contact angle, field-emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy were utilized to study the surface of mild steel specimens after dipping in acidic solutions. Electrochemical impedance results showed a corrosion efficiency of about 88% in 300 ppm of grape seed extract. Also, results revealed more compact corrosion products with improved integrity in the presence of grape seed, which confirmed electrochemical test results.
Fundamental limits and optimal estimation of the resonance frequency of a linear harmonic oscillator
Authors: Wang Mingkang , Zhang Rui , Ilic Robert , Liu Yuxiang , Aksyuk Vladimir A.
Published: September 2021

All physical oscillators are subject to thermodynamic and quantum perturbations, fundamentally limiting measurement of their resonance frequency. Analyses assuming specific ways of estimating frequency can underestimate the available precision and overlook unconventional measurement regimes. Here we derive a general, estimation-method-independent Cramer Rao lower bound for a linear harmonic oscillator resonance frequency measurement uncertainty, seamlessly accounting for the quantum, thermodynamic and instrumental limitations, including Fisher information from quantum backaction- and thermodynamically driven fluctuations. We provide a universal and practical maximum-likelihood frequency estimator reaching the predicted limits in all regimes, and experimentally validate it on a thermodynamically limited nanomechanical oscillator. Low relative frequency uncertainty is obtained for both very high bandwidth measurements (≈10−5 for τ = 30 μs) and measurements using thermal fluctuations alone (<10−6). Beyond nanomechanics, these results advance frequency-based metrology across physical domains.
Feasibility of graphene–polymer composite membranes for forward osmosis applications
Authors: Akca Sevilay , Arpaçay Pınar , McEvoy Niall , Prymak Oleg , Blau Werner J. , Ulbricht Mathias
Published: September 2021

Preparation of sandwich-like graphene-polymer composite membranes by stacked multilayer graphene, polyethyleneimine and ethylenediamine.
Molecular characterization of COVID-19 therapeutics: luteolin as an allosteric modulator of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Alvarado Walter , Perez-Lemus Gustavo R. , Menéndez Cintia A. , Byléhn Fabian , de Pablo Juan J.
Published: September 2021

The interactions between the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) are crucial for viral entry and subsequent replication.
Elevated electrochemical performances enabled by a core–shell titanium hydride coated separator in lithium–sulphur batteries
Authors: Zhao Zhiyuan , Duan Xiaobo , Zhang Lei , Che Zhiwei , Wang Kun , Zheng Bin , Wang Xiaogang
Published: September 2021

A TiO2−x@TiH2core–shell microstructure formed spontaneously, in which the TiH2core acts as an electron transfer pathway and the shell functioned as the polysulfide absorber.
Rapid and selective detection of aluminum ion using 1,2,3-triazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid-functionalized gold nanoparticle-based colorimetric sensor
Authors: Zhao Shengliang , Chen Liqiong , Liu Feiyan , Fan Yongyao , Liu Yiheng , Han Yulai , Hu Yunfei , Su Jingyun , Song Chunyan
Published: September 2021

A colorimetric sensor based on TADA–AuNPs accompanied by a masking agent DPC was constructed, with which the rapid quantification of Al3+ can be realized by UV-vis spectroscopy or naked eye observation.
A novel multimodal nanoplatform for targeting tumor necrosis
Authors: Han Xiangjun , Taratula Oleh , St Lorenz Anna , Moses Abraham S. , Albarqi Hassan A. , Jahangiri Younes , Wu Qirun , Xu Ke , Taratula Olena , Farsad Khashayar
Published: September 2021

Au-Hyp-NP developed by encapsulation of gold and hypericin into PEG-PCL nanoplatform for fluorescence and X-ray tracking with tumor necrosis targeting.
Effect of dehydrofluorination reaction on structure and properties of PVDF electrospun fibers
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Wang Haijun , Liu Kun , Wang Tong , Yuan Chunlei , Yang Haibo
Published: September 2021

A piezoelectric nanosensor was prepared with a novel type of dehydrofluorinated poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) nanofibrous membrane.
Genetically-targeted photorelease of endocannabinoids enables optical control of GPR55 in pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Tobias Janelle M. , Rajic Gabriela , Viray Alexander E. G. , Icka-Araki David , Frank James A.
Published: September 2021

Optically-cleavable targeted ligands unite photocaged chemistry with genetic targeting to induce cell activity at defined membranes. OCT-PEA uncaging stiumlates β-cell activityviacell surface GPR55.
A pillar[5]arene-based covalent organic framework with pre-encoded selective host–guest recognition
Authors: Liu Lu , Hu Yiming , Huang Shaofeng , Jin Yinghua , Cui Jingnan , Gong Weitao , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2021

A novel pillar[5]arene-derived (P5) COF was rationally designed and synthesized, which exhibited superior performance in selective gas adsorption and paraquat binding.
Supramolecular photocatalysts fixed on the inside of the polypyrrole layer in dye sensitized molecular photocathodes: application to photocatalytic CO2 reduction coupled with water oxidation
Authors: Kuttassery Fazalurahman , Kumagai Hiromu , Kamata Ryutaro , Ebato Yusuke , Higashi Masanobu , Suzuki Hajime , Abe Ryu , Ishitani Osamu
Published: September 2021

A novel dye-sensitized molecular photocathode with polypyrrole networks exhibits high efficiency and durability for photocatalytic CO2 reduction by using water as reductant and visible light as energy.
Flash chemistry enables high productivity metalation-substitution of 5-alkyltetrazoles
Authors: Wong Jeff Y. F. , Thomson Christopher G. , Vilela Filipe , Barker Graeme
Published: September 2021

We report a α-metalation-substitution of readily deprotected 5-alkyltetrazoles under batch and continuous flow conditions. In flow, thermal imaging enabled identification of an unsafe exotherm and optimisation of a productivity rate of 141 g h−1.
Nanoflower Ni(OH)2grownin situon Ni foam for high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials
Authors: Yi Xuerui , Sun Huapeng , Robertson Neil , Kirk Caroline
Published: September 2021

Nanoflower Ni(OH)2shows exceptionally high specific capacitance.
Anchoring porous carbon nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes as a high-performance composite with a unique core-sheath structure for electromagnetic pollution precaution
Authors: Zhao Honghong , Xu Xianzhu , Fan Dingge , Xu Ping , Wang Fengyuan , Cui Liru , Han Xijiang , Du Yunchen
Published: September 2021

The enhanced EM absorption performance of the PCNs/CNTs composite benefits from the rational design of the chemical composition and microstructure.
Highly exposed discrete Co atoms anchored in ultrathin porous N, P-codoped carbon nanosheets for efficient oxygen electrocatalysis and rechargeable aqueous/solid-state Zn–air batteries
Authors: Liu Xinghuan , Zhang Yanwen , Zhao Zeyu , Gao Haoran , Kang Junjie , Wang Rongjie , Ge Guixian , Jia Xin
Published: September 2021

The ultrathin porous nanosheet structure and optimized N and P dual-coordinated Co active sites enable high performances of CoSA/NPC in oxygen electrocatalysis and rechargeable aqueous and flexible solid-state ZABs.
Silver nanoparticle embedded polymer–zirconium-based metal–organic framework (polyUiO-66) for electrochemical biosensors of respiratory viruses
Authors: Jia Qiaojuan , Lou Yafei , Rong Feilong , Zhang Shuai , Wang Minghua , He Linghao , Zhang Zhihong , Du Miao
Published: September 2021

This work presents novel electrochemical biosensors based on a silver nanoparticle (AgNP) embedded polymer–zirconium-based metal–organic framework (polyUiO-66@AgNPs) for high-efficiency detection of respiratory viruses.
Single nucleus RNA-sequencing: how it's done, applications and limitations
Authors: Fischer Juliane , Ayers Thomas
Published: September 2021

Single nuclei RNA-sequencing (sNuc-Seq) is a methodology which uses isolated nuclei instead of whole cells to profile gene expression. By using droplet microfluidic technologies, users are able to profile thousands of single transcriptomes at high throughput from their chosen tissue. This article aims to introduce sNuc-Seq as a method and its utility in multiple tissue types. Furthermore, we discuss the risks associated with the use of nuclei, which must be considered before committing to a methodology.
Modelling the central nervous system: tissue engineering of the cellular microenvironment
Authors: Walczak Paige A. , Perez-Esteban Patricia , Bassett David C. , Hill Eric James
Published: September 2021

With the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases, improved models of the central nervous system (CNS) will improve our understanding of neurophysiology and pathogenesis, whilst enabling exploration of novel therapeutics. Studies of brain physiology have largely been carried out using in vivo models, ex vivo brain slices or primary cell culture from rodents. Whilst these models have provided great insight into complex interactions between brain cell types, key differences remain between human and rodent brains, such as degree of cortical complexity. Unfortunately, comparative models of human brain tissue are lacking. The development of induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) has accelerated advancement within the field of in vitro tissue modelling. However, despite generating accurate cellular representations of cortical development and disease, two-dimensional (2D) iPSC-derived cultures lack an entire dimension of environmental information on structure, migration, polarity, neuronal circuitry and spatiotemporal organisation of cells. As such, researchers look to tissue engineering in order to develop advanced biomaterials and culture systems capable of providing necessary cues for guiding cell fates, to construct in vitro model systems with increased biological relevance. This review highlights experimental methods for engineering of in vitro culture systems to recapitulate the complexity of the CNS with consideration given to previously unexploited biophysical cues within the cellular microenvironment.
Applying the Transtheoretical Model to Stuttering Management Among Adolescents: Part I. Scale Development
Authors: Zebrowski Patricia M. , Rodgers Naomi H. , Gerlach Hope , Paiva Andrea L. , Robbins Mark L.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This article is the first in a two-part series on the application of the
Transtheoretical Model
to stuttering management among adolescents. In this article, we describe the process of developing measures to assess stage of change (SOC) by defining behaviors of stuttering management, as well as the two primary cognitive constructs that underlie one's readiness to make behavioral change: decisional balance (DB) and situational self-efficacy (SSE). This work hinges on the ability to develop an operational definition of what it means to successfully manage or do something positive about one's stuttering.

Method

We used an iterative process to develop the three scales. Through qualitative analysis of key informant interview and focus group transcripts with 24 adolescents who stutter and 26 clinicians specializing in stuttering, we developed stuttering-specific SOC, DB, and SSE scales. The drafted scales were cognitively tested with nine adolescents who stutter.

Results

Thematic analysis yielded a three-part definition of successful stuttering management that formed the basis for the SOC scale: (a) learning and using strategies to modify speech or stuttering, (b) changing negative thoughts and attitudes regarding stuttering, and (c) talking without avoiding sounds, words, or situations. Results from this analysis support a broader view of successful stuttering management; that is, it is likely that doing so requires more than just behavior change, which has long been considered the main objective of stuttering treatment. Additional analyses yielded pros and cons of managing stuttering (62 items for the DB scale) and situations in which it is difficult to manage stuttering (39 items for the SSE scale).

Conclusions

Qualitative analyses provided a three-part definition of “stuttering management” and a comprehensive pool of items that would allow measurement of DB and SSE that underlie readiness to manage stuttering among adolescents. In the companion article in this two-part series, we describe the next step in scale development: exploratory scale validation of the drafted SOC, DB, and SSE scales.
Age-Related Functional Reserve Decline Is Not Seen in Pharyngeal Swallowing Pressures
Authors: Jones Corinne A. , Colletti Christina M.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Functional reserve represents the difference between an individual's ability to produce a maximum output function and the ability to perform a functional task. Several studies have documented an age-related decrease in functional reserve with oral tongue pressure generation. Whether this pattern is seen in pharyngeal swallowing pressures is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate pharyngeal functional reserve using high-resolution manometry during normal-effort and effortful swallows.

Method

Pharyngeal high-resolution manometry was performed on 38 younger healthy individuals (≤ 40 years) and 18 older healthy individuals (≥ 60 years) during normal-effort and effortful water swallows. Pressure metrics included maximum pressure in the velopharynx, tongue base, and hypopharynx, as well as pharyngeal contractile integral and minimum pressure in the upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to determine the effects of swallow task, age, and pharyngeal region on pressure generation.

Results

Maximum pharyngeal pressures and pharyngeal contractile integral were significantly increased during the effortful swallows compared to normal-effort swallows (p< .001), but there were no interactions between task and age in pharyngeal pressures. In the UES, minimum pressures were significantly elevated in older individuals during effortful swallows compared to normal-effort swallows (p= .007) but did not follow a pattern consistent with reduced functional reserve.

Conclusions

Healthy individuals increase pharyngeal driving pressures during effortful swallows, without an age-related reduction in the magnitude of pressure increase. Thus, this study did not find evidence for an age-related reduction in pharyngeal functional reserve. The preserved ability to increase pharyngeal pressures during effortful swallowing in aging may support the use of behavioral swallowing interventions in older individuals without neuromuscular conditions.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.16606709
Finding Voice: A Survey of Clinical Fellows and Early Career Clinicians Specializing in Voice and Voice Disorders
Authors: Procter Teresa , Codino Juliana , Rubin Adam
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In speech-language pathology, training in the treatment and evaluation of voice and voice disorders exists at the university level, fellowship level, and in early career opportunities. These opportunities, specifically in voice, are limited, resulting in a highly competitive process for those pursuing a career in voice pathology. This study aims to identify characteristics and trends of clinicians who have started a voice-focused career.

Method

A 34-question online survey was distributed to early career clinicians, defined as less than 5 years of practice with Certification of Clinical Competence, and clinical fellows with voice patients comprising at least 75% of their caseload. The survey was structured on seven topics: demographics and current clinical practice, application and interview process for clinical fellowship (CF), graduate clinical experience in voice, voice performance background and education, research experience, supplementary education and training, and networking.

Results

Fifty-six individuals responded to the survey. Over 80% of study participants reported experiences as a voice or singing voice performer, commitments to supplementary training and education, and a graduate clinical placement in voice, all prior to their CF. Fifty-two of the 56 respondents (92.9%) believe there are currently not enough voice-specific CF training opportunities.

Conclusions

Background in performance voice, obtaining a graduate-level voice placement, and early demonstration of commitment through networking and extracurricular activities are common findings in those successful starting careers in voice pathology. Acquisition of a CF position with specialization in voice and voice disorders is challenging due to the limited number of positions.
The dependence of the gradients of oxygen and nitrogen-to-oxygen on stellar age in MaNGA galaxies
Authors: Zinchenko I. A. , Vílchez J. M. , Pérez-Montero E. , Sukhorukov A. V. , Sobolenko M. , Duarte Puertas S.
Published: September 2021

We derived the oxygen abundance (O/H), the nitrogen-to-oxygen (N/O) abundance ratio, and their corresponding radial gradients for a sample of 1431 galaxies from the MaNGA DR15 survey using two different realisations of the strong line method: empirical R calibration and the Bayesian model-based HII-CHI-MISTRY (HCM) code. We find that both abundance calculation methods reveal a correlation between the O/H gradient and the stellar mass of a galaxy. This relation is non-linear, with the steepest average gradients in the intermediate mass range and flatter average gradients for high- and low-mass galaxies. The relation between the N/O gradient and the stellar mass is, on average, non-linear with the steepest gradients in the intermediate mass range (log(M/M⊙)∼10), flatter gradients for high-mass galaxies, and the flattest gradients for low-mass galaxies. However, the general trend of steepening N/O gradients for higher masses, as reported in previous studies, remains evident. We find a dependence between the O/H and N/O gradients and the galaxy mean stellar age traced by the D(4000) index. For galaxies of lower masses, both gradients are, generally, steeper for intermediate values of D(4000) and flatter for low and high values of D(4000). Only the most massive galaxies do not show this correlation. We interpret this behaviour as an evolution of the metallicity gradients with the age of stellar population. Though the galaxies with a positive slope of the D(4000) radial gradient tend to have flatter O/H and N/O gradients, as compared to those with a negative D(4000) gradient.
Wer viel sucht, der findet – Scoping Reviews
Authors: Pott Claudia
Published: September 2021

Die wohl bekannteste Form einer wissenschaftlichen Übersicht über ein bestimmtes Thema ist das systematische Review. Darüber hinaus gibt es weitere nützliche Review-Formen. Eine davon ist das Scoping Review, das zum Einsatz kommt, wenn man ein sehr komplexes Thema beleuchten will oder wenn die Literatur noch nicht umfassend bewertet wurde.
Die Rechtsfrage: Wie kann ich personenbezogene Daten sicher versenden?
Authors: Wagner Christian
Published: September 2021

„Für Änderungen von Verordnungen und Berichten nutzen viele Praxen noch das Fax, was aus Datenschutzgründen als kritisch eingestuft wird. Welche sichere und praktikable Alternative gibt es?“

Therapeutin via E-Mail
SensiblerHelfer – Diagnoseinstrument Thermometer
Authors: Diemer Frank
Published: September 2021

Eine erhöhte Hauttemperatur kann ein Zeichen für gesteigerte Stoffwechselprozesse sein. Die lokale Temperaturmessung eignet sich daher gut, um den Heilungsverlauf nach chirurgischen Eingriffen und Verletzungen zu beurteilen. Wer aber keine falschen Schlüsse ziehen will, muss einiges beachten.
Gesundheitspolitik: Amtszeit im Krisenmodus
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: September 2021

Nach vier Jahren geht die Amtszeit von Gesundheitsminister Jens Spahn mit dieser Legislaturperiode zu Ende. Geprägt wurde diese Zeit nicht nur von der Corona-Pandemie. kma wollte wissen, wie wichtige Akteure des Gesundheitswesens sein Schaffen bewerten. Die Bilanz fällt vielschichtig aus: Mal wird die Entscheidungsfreude des Ministers als erfrischend und innovativ empfunden, mal als überhastet und unkoordiniert. Während wichtige Impulse bei der Digitalisierung angestoßen wurden, blieben andere Dinge wie eine Reform der ambulanten Notfallversorgung auf der Strecke – und für den potenziellen Nachfolger oder die potenzielle Nachfolgerin bleibt noch viel zu tun.
Kommentar: Der rastlose Minister
Authors: Doelfs Guntram
Published: September 2021

Die Bilanz von vier Jahren Jens Spahn als Gesundheitsminister fällt gemischt aus. Einerseits durchbrach er die jahrelange Blockade im Gesundheitswesen, brachte mit Gesetzen im gefühlten Wochentakt vor allem die Digitalisierung und die Pflege voran. Andererseits blieb so manches Stückwerk – und in der Corona-Krise leistete sich der Minister einige Pannen. Spahn ficht das nicht an, Kritik perlt an ihm einfach ab.
Führen in der Pandemie: „Die Krise hat die Teams zusammengeschweißt“
Authors: Orth Anne
Published: September 2021

Die Corona-Pandemie hat insbesondere Ärzten und Pflegekräften, aber auch Klinikmanagern und anderen Beschäftigten in deutschen Kliniken viel abverlangt. Welche Anforderungen hat die Pandemie an die Führungskräfte gestellt und wie sind sie damit umgegangen? Inwieweit haben sich die Führungskultur und die Zusammenarbeit der Professionen verändert? Was lernen Klinikmanagerinnen und -manager aus der Krise? kma hat sich unter Führungskräften in leitenden Positionen umgehört.
Foreignness research in international business: Major streams and future directions
Authors: Lu Jane W. , Ma Hao , Xie Xuanli
Published: September 2021

Foreignness has long been a central construct in international business research, with research streams examining its conceptualizations, manifestations, and consequences. Researchers started by taking foreignness to be a liability, then later considered the possibility of its being an asset. A still more recent view is that foreignness is an organizational identity that a firm can purposefully manage. Broadly conceived, foreignness is an umbrella construct that directly or tangentially covers research on country of origin, institutional distance, firm-specific advantages, and the ownership–location–internalization eclectic paradigm. We review the body of research on foreignness and track the evolution of its four streams, liability of foreignness, asset of foreignness, drivers of foreignness, and firm responses to foreignness. We call for a clearer conceptualization and a sounder theoretical grounding of the foreignness construct, more integration of the liability of foreignness and the asset of foreignness research streams, greater attention to the multiple strategies firms use to manage foreignness, and the extension of the field to less-explored contexts such as emerging economies, digitalization, and de-globalization.
Using reactive force fields to describe the thermophysical and reactive properties of water
Authors: Green Leigh Ann
Published: September 2021

ReaxFF models are assessed for their abilities to accurately describe the properties of liquid water.
Angular-adjustable single-channel narrow-band filter based on one-dimensional photonic crystal heterostructure
Authors: Wang Fang , Song Xiao-Ying , Chio U-Fat , Wang Wei , Tang Xiao-Hong
Published: September 2021

In this work, we designed a narrow-band filter based on a one-dimensional photonic crystal heterostructure featuring an angle-adjustable single-channel. The design presented here is based on a quarter-wave reflector with a mirror defect layer in the middle of the structure. By combining two defective one-dimensional photonic crystals (PCs), we obtained a heterostructure in which the two sub-PCs had the wavelengths of their defect modes, that is, the same at one incident angle and different at all other incident angles. This structure possessed the single-channel resonant peak in the transmission spectrum under either a normal or an oblique incident angle, and the angle-adjustability was related to the two modifying parameters. The filter based on this heterostructure possessed not only a narrow passband but also a sharp angular pass breadth. These properties have potential applications in angular tunable, single-channel narrow-band filters.
Effect of fractal particle size distribution on the mobility of dry granular flows
Authors: Lai Zhiqiang , Chen Dong , Jiang Enhui , Zhao Lianjun , Vallejo Luis E. , Zhou Wei
Published: September 2021

This paper performs a numerical investigation on the kinetic behaviors of dry granular flows generated by the collapse of granular columns with different fractal particle size distributions (FPSDs) using the discrete element method. The FPSD has a remarkable impact on the regime and mobility of a granular flow. As the fractal dimension of a granular assembly increases, the translational velocities of the particles increase in the horizontal direction, whereas the rotational velocities decrease. The number of particles involved in the horizontal spreading increases due to the decreasing intensity of the contact shearing particle behavior. These increased translational velocities in the horizontal direction effectively facilitate particle spreading. A boundary layer is formed at the front bottom of the granular body in which the clockwise rotational velocities of particles are significantly increased, thereby benefiting particle spreading. The whole front of the granular flow obtains an immense spreading velocity. Moreover, the translational and rotational characteristics are dependent on the particle size. Smaller particles tend to translate and rotate faster than larger particles because of the greater particle contact forces of the former. As the fractal dimension increases, medium- and large-size particles obtain less kinetic energy than do small-size particles. Therefore, small-size particles play a crucial role in the mobility of granular flows in a granular assembly with a high fractal dimension.
Cavitation in heterogeneous nanopores: The chemical ink-bottle
Authors: Puibasset J.
Published: September 2021

The emptying of nanoporous media may either occur by meniscus recession from the outside or proceed via bubble formation in the core of the fluid (cavitation). In the latter case, the system has to overcome the high energy barrier associated with liquid rupture and can be observed only if the porous network impedes meniscus recession. It is generally admitted that the ink-bottle geometry fulfills this condition: large cavities should be connected to the outside only through thin throats. We show that chemical heterogeneities can play a similar role (the so-called chemical ink-bottles) where cavities correspond to the pores with the lowest fluid–wall affinity, while throats are replaced by channels with the highest fluid–wall affinity. In addition, the chemical ink-bottle has been revealed as powerful in monitoring the out-of-equilibrium fluid cavitation. We consider a simple molecular model of nitrogen adsorption in a slit pore with different fluid–wall interactions to mimic the possible variations in the surface chemistry of realistic adsorbents. The highest-to-lowest affinity ratio is shown to be a key parameter that controls the metastability of the confined fluid. The direct measurement of the nucleation rate (lifetime method) compares well with the classical nucleation theory, with better agreement if one takes into account the reduction in the surface tension of small bubbles.
Is ground cover a useful indicator of grazing land condition?
Authors: Beutel Terrence S. , Shepherd Robert , Karfs Robert A. , Abbott Brett N. , Eyre Teresa , Hall Trevor J. , Barbi Emily
Published: September 2021

Remotely sensed ground cover data play an important role in Australian rangelands research development and extension, reflecting broader global trends in the use of remotely sensed data. We tested the relationship between remotely sensed ground cover data and field-based assessments of grazing land condition in the largest quantitative analysis of its type to date. We collated land condition data from 2282 sites evaluated between 2004 and 2018 in the Burdekin and Fitzroy regions of Queensland. Condition was defined using the Grazing Land Management land condition framework that ranks grazing land condition on a four point ordinal scale based on dimensions of vegetation composition, ground cover level and erosion severity. Nine separate ground cover derived indices were then calculated for each site. We found that all indices significantly correlated with grazing land condition on corresponding sites. Highest correlations occurred with indices that benchmarked ground cover at the site against regional ground cover assessed over several years. These findings provide some validation for the general use of ground cover data as an indicator of rangeland health/productivity. We also constructed univariate land condition models with a subset of these indices. Our models predicted land condition significantly better than random assignment though only moderately well; no model correctly predicted land condition class on >40% of sites. While the best models predicted condition correctly at >60% of A and D condition sites, condition at sites in B and C condition sites was poorly predicted. Several factors limit how well ground cover levels predict land condition. The main challenge is modelling a multidimensional value (grazing land condition) with a unidimensional ground cover measurement. We suggest that better land condition models require a range of predictors to address this multidimensionality but cover indices can make a substantial contribution in this context.