bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using data visualization to detect patterns in whole‐person health data
Authors: Austin Robin R. , Mathiason Michelle A. , Monsen Karen A.
Published: June 2022

Data visualization techniques are useful for examining large multidimensional data sets. In this exploratory data analysis (EDA) study, we applied a visualization pattern detection and testing process to deidentified data to discover patterns in whole‐person health for adults 65 and older. Whole‐person health examines a person's environmental, psychosocial, and physical health, as well as their health‐related behaviors; and assesses their strengths, challenges, and needs. Strengths are defined as assets and capabilities in the face of short‐or long‐term stressors. We collected data using a mobile application that delivers a comprehensive whole‐person assessment using a simplified version of a standardized instrument, the Omaha System. The visualization pattern detection process is iterative, includes various techniques, and requires visualization literacy. The data visualization techniques applied in this analysis included bubble charts, parallel coordinates line graphs, box plots, and alluvial flow diagrams. We discovered six patterns within the visualizations. We formulated and tested six hypotheses based on these six patterns, and all six hypotheses were supported. Adults 65 and older had more strengths than challenges and more challenges than needs (p < 0.001). Strengths and challenges were negatively correlated (p < 0.001). Unexpectedly, a subset of adults 65 and older who had many, but not all, strengths had significantly more needs (p = 0.04). The use of standardized terminology with its inherent data interrelationships was key to discovering patterns in whole‐person health. This methodology may be used in future EDA research using new data sets.
Veteran Educators or For‐Profiteers? Tuition Responses to Changes in the Post‐9/11 GI Bill
Authors: Baird Matthew , Kofoed Michael S. , Miller Trey , Wenger Jennie
Published: June 2022

In 2010, Congress reauthorized the Post‐9/11 GI Bill by changing reimbursement rates from by‐state maximums to a nationwide limit. This policy created exogenous variation in financial aid for veterans at private universities. We detect changes in tuition only for for‐profit colleges, where we estimate a 1 percent pass‐through rate. This response is mainly from states with decreased benefits; colleges with more veterans, and colleges whose pre‐change tuition was above the state maximum but below the new nationwide level had a pass‐through rate of 8 percent. We also find a negative association between changes in benefits and overall student enrollment for for‐profit colleges.
Benefits of task‐specific movement program on en bloc turning in Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Khobkhun Fuengfa , Hollands Mark , Tretriluxana Jarugool , Srivanitchapoom Prachaya , Richards Jim , Ajjimaporn Amornpan
Published: June 2022

Introduction

En bloc turning highlights a lack of rotational intersegmental coordination, which commonly impacts turning ability in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Whilst this turning deficit responds fairly well to medical treatment, it may be further mitigated by performing specific exercise training. Thus, the present study aimed to examine the effects of a 4‐week exercise program, which focused on task‐specific movements (TSM program) on turning ability and clinical outcomes in people with PD.

Methods

Twenty‐two adults (67 ± 6 years) with early‐to‐mid‐stage idiopathic PD were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EG; n = 11) or a control group (CG; n = 11). The exercise group (EG) group received a 60‐min per session TSM program for 4 weeks (a total of 15 sessions), while the CG group performed their routine rehabilitation program (a total of 12 sessions). Inertial measurement units were used to measure turning kinematics including; onset latency of body segments and stepping characteristics. Clinical outcomes included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), functional reach test (FRT), and fall efficacy scale international (FES‐I). Assessments were conducted at baseline and after 4 weeks.

Results

In the EG, turning kinematics, UPDRS scores, FRT, and FES‐I scale, were improved at the end of the 4‐week program compared with the CG (all p < 0.05).

Impact Statement

A 4‐week TSM program could be a promising alternative rehabilitation program for improving “en bloc” turns and clinical outcomes in PD patients.
Formation Dynamics of BH and GaH‐Pairs in Crystalline Silicon During Dark Annealing
Authors: Acker Yanik , Simon Jochen , Herguth Axel
Published: June 2022

In crystalline silicon, atomic hydrogen released from hydrogen dimers forms acceptor–hydrogen pairs during annealing in the dark at elevated temperatures. In this study, the formation of boron–hydrogen (BH) and gallium–hydrogen (GaH) pairs in 1 Ω cm silicon is investigated at temperatures ranging from 140 to 220 °C. Acceptor–hydrogen concentrations in the low range are quantified by means of highly sensitive resistance measurements. GaH pairs are generally found to form faster than BH pairs. Arrhenius analysis shows a difference in activation energy (BH: 1.20 eV, GaH: 1.04 eV) while the trial frequency is the same ().
Dynamic downscaling and daily nowcasting from influenza surveillance data
Authors: Paul Rajib , Han Dan , DeDoncker Elise , Prieto Diana
Published: June 2022

Real‐time trends from surveillance data are important to assess and develop preparedness for influenza outbreaks. The overwhelming testing demand and limited capacity of testing laboratories for viral positivity render daily confirmed case data inaccurate and delay its availability in preparedness. Using Bayesian dynamic downscaling models, we obtained posterior estimates for daily influenza incidences from weekly estimates of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and daily reported constitutional and respiratory complaints during emergency department (ED) visits obtained from the state health departments. Our model provides one‐day and seven‐day lead forecasts along with 95 prediction intervals. Our hybrid Markov Chain Monte Carlo and Kalman filter algorithms facilitate faster computation and enable us to update our estimates as new data become available. Our method is tested and validated using the State of Michigan data over the years 2009‐2013. Reported constitutional and respiratory complaints at the EDs showed strong correlations of 0.81 and 0.68 respectively, with influenza rates. In general, our forecast model can be adapted to track an outbreak with only one respiratory virus as a causative agent.
Stability of symptoms of psychological distress: A 13‐year study using Australian national data
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: June 2022

This study examined the stability of 10 symptoms of psychological distress measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) in an Australian adult sample. Data were collected at seven time points, 2 years apart, between 2007 and 2019. The average stability of the 10 symptoms was 49%. However, there were differences between items. The items can be categorised based on two characteristics: Degree of extremity and arousal. More extreme symptoms (i.e., those beginning with ‘so’, such as ‘so sad that...’) tended to change more over time, whereas milder symptoms (e.g., “nervous”) tended to be more stable. Symptoms with low levels of arousal (e.g., ‘hopeless’) tended to reflect more situation‐specific influences, whereas symptoms with high levels of arousal (e.g., ‘restless or fidgety’) tended to reflect more nonsystematic influences.
Label‐Free Quantification of Molecular Interaction in Live Red Blood Cells by Tracking Nanometer Scale Membrane Fluctuations
Authors: Yao Bo , Yang Yunze , Yu Nanxi , Tao Nongjian , Wang Di , Wang Shaopeng , Zhang Fenni
Published: June 2022

Molecular interactions in live cells play an important role in both cellular functions and drug discovery. Current methods for measuring binding kinetics involve extracting the membrane protein and labeling, while the in situ quantification of molecular interaction with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) imaging mainly worked with fixed cells due to the micro‐motion related noises of live cells. Here, an optical imaging method is presented to measure the molecular interaction with live red blood cells by tracking the nanometer membrane fluctuations. The membrane fluctuation dynamics are measured by tracking the membrane displacement during glycoprotein interaction. The data are analyzed with a thermodynamic model to determine the elastic properties of the cell observing reduced membrane fluctuations under fixatives, indicating cell fixations affect membrane mechanical properties. The binding kinetics of glycoprotein to several lectins are obtained by tracking the membrane fluctuation amplitude changes on single live cells. The binding kinetics and strength of different lectins are quite different, indicating the glycoproteins expression heterogeneity in single cells. It is anticipated that the method will contribute to the understanding of mechanisms of cell interaction and communication, and have potential applications in the mechanical assessment of cancer or other diseases at the single‐cell level, and screening of membrane protein targeting drugs.
Development of Biodegradable Osteopromotive Citrate‐Based Bone Putty
Authors: Tan Xinyu , Gerhard Ethan , Wang Yuqi , Tran Richard T. , Xu Hui , Yan Su , Rizk Elias B. , Armstrong April D. , Zhou Yuxiao , Du Jing , Bai Xiaochun , Yang Jian
Published: June 2022

The burden of bone fractures demands development of effective biomaterial solutions, while additional acute events such as noncompressible bleeding further motivate the search for multi‐functional implants to avoid complications including osseous hemorrhage, infection, and nonunion. Bone wax has been widely used in orthopedic bleeding control due to its simplicity of use and conformation to irregular defects; however, its nondegradability results in impaired bone healing, risk of infection, and significant inflammatory responses. Herein, a class of intrinsically fluorescent, osteopromotive citrate‐based polymer/hydroxyapatite (HA) composites (BPLP‐Ser/HA) as a highly malleable press‐fit putty is designed. BPLP‐Ser/HA putty displays mechanics replicating early nonmineralized bone (initial moduli from ≈2–500 kPa), hydration induced mechanical strengthening in physiological conditions, tunable degradation rates (over 2 months), low swelling ratios (<10%), clotting and hemostatic sealing potential (resistant to blood pressure for >24 h) and significant adhesion to bone (≈350–550 kPa). Simultaneously, citrate's bioactive properties result in antimicrobial (≈100% and 55% inhibition of S. aureus and E. coli) and osteopromotive effects. Finally, BPLP‐Ser/HA putty demonstrates in vivo regeneration in a critical‐sized rat calvaria model equivalent to gold standard autograft. BPLP‐Ser/HA putty represents a simple, off‐the‐shelf solution to the combined challenges of acute wound management and subsequent bone regeneration.
The effect of hoisting on variants of Hierarchical Delta Debugging
Authors: Vince Dániel , Hodován Renáta , Bársony Daniella , Kiss Ákos
Published: June 2022

Minimizing failing test cases is an important preprocessing step on the path of debugging. If much of a test case that triggered a bug does not contribute to the actual failure, then the time required to fix the bug can increase considerably. However, test case reduction itself can be a time‐consuming task, especially if done manually. Therefore, automated minimization techniques have been proposed, the minimizing Delta Debugging and the Hierarchical Delta Debugging (HDD) algorithms being the most well known. In this paper, we investigated the input format of HDD, searching for structures that the algorithm cannot reduce. Motivated by the findings, we have created an algorithmic framework that enabled the use of transformations other than pruning. Furthermore, with the Transformation‐based Minimization framework, we propose to extend HDD and its coarse and recursive variants with a reduction method that does not prune subtrees but replaces them with compatible subtrees further down the hierarchy, called hoisting. We have evaluated various combinations of pruning and hoisting on multiple test suites and found that hoisting can help to further reduce the size of test cases by 27% on average and by 80% as best case compared with the baseline algorithm.
Efficient and Less‐Toxic Indium‐Doped MAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells Prepared by Metal Alloying Technique
Authors: Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Fazel Ziba , Tavakoli Rouhollah , Akin Seckin , Satapathi Soumitra , Prochowicz Daniel , Yadav Pankaj
Published: June 2022

Perovskite materials with ABX3 structure (A: organic, B: metal, and X: halides) have attracted tremendous attention due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties. Herein, a novel approach is developed using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), i.e., metal alloying of halide‐perovskite domain via ion‐transfer (MAHDI) for the growth of high‐quality perovskite films, grown directly from a metal precursor. This technique easily enables us to replace the toxic Pb metal (B site) with other metals using alloying approach. Using the proposed approach, we fabricated stable and efficient Pb–In perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.2%, which is more efficient than the pure Pb‐based PSCs (19.23%). Our characterization results reveal that In‐doping improves the crystallinity and photoluminescence (PL) of the perovskite film, resulting in higher photovoltaic properties in the device. To demonstrate the potential of our proposed method for other alloys, we also fabricated PSCs based on Pb–25%Sn alloy and obtained PCE of up to 15.2%. Overall, MAHDI technique opens up a new direction in the field of perovskite devices demonstrating great advantages such as lower price, higher performance, scalability, and fabrication flexibility.
Overcome Low Intrinsic Conductivity of NiOx Through Triazinyl Modification for Highly Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Jiabao , Wang Tong , Li Yaohua , Pu Xingyu , Chen Hui , Li Yuke , Yang Bowen , Zhang Yixin , Zhao Junsong , Cao Qi , Chen Xingyuan , Ghasemi Shahnaz , Hagfeldt Anders , Li Xuanhua
Published: June 2022

Nickel oxide (NiOx) is a promising hole transport material in inverted organic‐inorganic metal halide perovskite solar cells. However, its low intrinsic conductivity hinders its further improvement in device performance. Here, we employ a trimercapto‐s‐triazine trisodium salt (TTTS) as a chelating agent of Ni2+ in the NiOx layer to improve its conductivity. Due to the electron‐deficient triazine ring, the TTTS complexes with Ni2+ in NiOx via a strong Ni2+‐N coordination bond and increases the ratio of Ni3+:Ni2+. The increased Ni3+ concentration adjusts the band structure of NiOx, thus enhancing hole density and mobility, eventually improving the intrinsic conductivity of NiOx. As a result, the device with TTTS modification displays a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.81%. The encapsulated device based on a modified‐NiOx layer maintains 94% of its initial power output at the maximum power point and continuous one‐sun illumination for 1000 h at 45 °C. In addition, the unencapsulated target devices also maintain 92% at 60 ± 5% relative humidity and 25 °C in the air for 5000 h; and 91% at 85 °C in a nitrogen atmosphere for 1000 h. The research provides an effective strategy to enhance PCE and stability of inverted PSCs via modifying NiOx films with triazine molecule.
Heat Transfer and Thermohydraulic Characteristics of Arc‐Discharge Argon Plasma Plume Injected into Water
Authors: Kawamura Jun , Hirotani Daisuke , Matsuoka Yuya , Suzuki Ryujiro , Nezu Atsushi , Mori Shinsuke , Akatsuka Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

The flow and thermohydraulic characteristics of an atmospheric‐pressure argon arc jet plume injected into water were investigated. The temperature of the underwater plasma plume was measured using optical emission spectroscopy, and the water with a thermocouple. The velocity field of the water induced by the arc‐jet injection was observed using the particle image velocimetry method, which demonstrated that as the discharge current increased, the water flow velocity also increased. The diameter of the plasma plume was observed to be approximately the same as that of the anode nozzle, 6.7 mm. The heat transfer characteristics of the injected arc jet plume to the surrounding water were also investigated. The average velocity of the arc jet plume in the water was estimated based on mass balance to be in the range of 280–2500 m/s as a monotonically decreasing function of the flow distance. The velocity of the underwater arc is found to be subsonic over the entire volume of the plasma plume, however, it is larger than the sound velocity of the water up to 10 mm downward from the plasma nozzle. The resultant Reynolds number of the plasma flow was found to be between 1000 and 2800, indicating the flow was turbulent only at the most upstream region up to 3 mm downward from the nozzle, while it was almost laminar over the whole observed area of the underwater arc plasma plume. The heat transfer characteristics were discussed in terms of the dimensionless numbers. The Nusselt number ranges from approximately ∼3.8 to ∼6.5, which is a reasonable value. Although the existing theories of correlation heat transfer cannot fully explain the relationship between these dimensionless numbers, the correlation proposed by Fiszdon and the one by Lee–Pfender can qualitatively explain the observed results for the upstream region, which include the effects of the variation in the mass density, the viscosity, and the specific heat for a constant pressure of the argon arc plasma. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Short‐Circuit Point Estimation Method Using Abnormal Detection Line of Distribution Line
Authors: Kodama Yasuhiro , Hayashi Yasuhiro
Published: June 2022

Short‐circuit accidents hinder the supply of electric power in distribution lines. If a short‐circuit occurs, the power supply is interrupted and can be resumed only after the short‐circuit point is repaired. Identifying the short‐circuit point is time consuming because it is necessary to confirm whether the overcurrent passage indicator is operating and visually confirm the short‐circuit point. Therefore, we propose a method of installing an abnormal detection line under the high‐voltage line and identifying the short‐circuit point based on the current ratio before and after the short‐circuit flowing to the current‐measuring devices installed at both ends of the abnormal detection line. Because the current flowing in a high‐voltage distribution line at the time of the short‐circuit depends on the short‐circuit resistance value, the range of application of the short‐circuit resistance value is also discussed. We show that the method using abnormal‐detection lines can be applied to estimate the high‐resistance ground faults and disconnection points, and the ability to estimate short‐circuit points leads to the efficient use of the method using abnormal detection lines. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Efficacy of the Oral Administration of Maltodextrin Fructose Before Major Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective, Multicenter Clinical Study
Authors: Qin Huanlong , Ji Jiafu , Miao Yi , Liu Tong , Zhao Dongbing , Jia Zhenyi , Jiang Jun , Liu Jiang , Li Qiang , Ji Xi , Fu Weihua , Lou Donghua , Xia Wenyu , Li Ning
Published: June 2022

Background

To study the efficacy of the oral administration of maltodextrin and fructose before major abdominal surgery (MAS).

Methods

This prospective, multicenter, parallel‐controlled, double‐blind study included patients aged 45–70 years who underwent elective gastrectomy, colorectal resection, or duodenopancreatectomy. The intervention group (IG) was given 800 mL and 400 mL of a maltodextrin and fructose beverage at 10 h and 2 h before MAS, respectively, and the control group (CG) received water under the same experimental conditions. The primary endpoint was insulin resistance index (IRI), and the secondary endpoints were fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, insulin secretion index, insulin sensitivity index, intraoperative blood glucose, subjective comfort score, and clinical outcome indicators.

Results

A total of 240 cases were screened, of which 231 cases were randomly divided into two groups: 114 in the IG and 117 in the CG. No time‐treatment effect was detected for any endpoint. The IRI and fasting insulin were significantly lower in the IG than CG after MAS (p = 0.02 & P = 0.03). The scores for anxiety, appetite, and nausea were significantly lower in the IG than CG at 1 h before MAS. Compared with baseline, the scores for appetite and nausea decreased in the IG but increased in the CG.

Conclusion

The oral administration of maltodextrin and fructose before MAS can improve preoperative subjective well‐being and reduce postoperative insulin resistance without increasing the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Associations of 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman with plasma α- and γ-tocopherol and dietary vitamin E intake in older adults: the Lifelines-MINUTHE Study
Authors: Zhu Yinjie , Frank Jan , Riphagen Ineke J. , Minović Isidor , Vos Michel J. , Eggersdorfer Manfred L. , Navis Gerjan J. , Bakker Stephan J. L.
Published: June 2022

Background

Urinary metabolites of vitamin E, i.e., α- and γ-carboxyethyl hydroxychroman (α- and γ-CEHC), have gained increasing attention and have been proposed as novel biomarkers of vitamin E intake and status. However, there are insufficient data on the relationship of plasma α-tocopherol and γ-tocopherol and dietary vitamin E intake with 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-CEHC.

Objectives

We aimed to (1) investigate the associations of urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios and 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-CEHC with plasma α- and γ-tocopherol, respectively; (2) investigate the associations of urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios and 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-CEHC with dietary vitamin E intake, and we hypothesize that 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-CEHC will better correlate with vitamin E intake than urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios.

Design

24 h Urine and plasma samples were collected from 1519 participants (60–75 years, male: 50%) included in the Lifelines-MINUTHE Study for the assessments of urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios and 24 h urinary excretions of α- and γ-CEHC, and plasma α- and γ-tocopherol. Among those participants, dietary vitamin E intake data from 387 participants were available from an externally validated Flower-Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The associations of plasma α- and γ-tocopherol, dietary vitamin E intake, with urinary α- and γ-CEHC were assessed using multivariate linear regressions.

Results

24 h Urinary excretion of α-CEHC (median (IQR): 0.9 (0.3–2.4) µmol) was less than that of γ-CEHC (median (IQR): 1.5 (0.5–3.5) µmol). After adjustment for covariates, we found that 24 h urinary α-CEHC excretion and urinary α-CEHC/creatinine ratio were both positively associated with plasma α-tocopherol (std.beta: 0.06, p = 0.02; std.beta: 0.06, p = 0.01, respectively). Furthermore, the sum of 24 h urinary α- and γ-CEHC excretions was positively associated with dietary vitamin E intake (std.beta: 0.08; p = 0.03), whereas there was no relation between urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios and vitamin E intake. No association was observed neither between plasma α- and γ-tocopherol and dietary vitamin E intake, nor between urinary γ-CEHC and plasma γ-tocopherol.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed our hypothesis that 24 h urinary α- and γ-CEHC excretions would be a better marker for dietary vitamin E intake than urinary α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios. Considering that both 24 h urinary α- and γ-CEHC excretions and α- and γ-CEHC/creatinine ratios were also associated with plasma α-tocopherol status, we suggest that 24 h urinary α- and γ-CEHC excretions could be used to assess overall vitamin E status.
Serum anti-NMDA-receptor antibodies and cognitive function after ischemic stroke (PROSCIS-B)
Authors: Sperber Pia S. , Gebert Pimrapat , Broersen Leonie H. A. , Huo Shufan , Piper Sophie K. , Teegen Bianca , Heuschmann Peter U. , Prüss Harald , Endres Matthias , Liman Thomas G. , Siegerink Bob
Published: June 2022

Objective

We aimed to investigate whether serum anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor GluN1 (previously NR1) antibody (NMDAR1-abs) seropositivity impacts cognitive function (CF) in the long term following ischemic stroke.

Methods

Data were used from the PROSpective Cohort with Incident Stroke-Berlin. NMDAR1-abs (IgM/IgA/IgG) were measured with cell-based assays from serum obtained within 7 days after the first-ever stroke. Seropositivity was defined as titers ≥ 1:10, low titers as ≤ 1:100 and high titers as > 1:100. We assessed CF at 1, 2 and 3 years after stroke with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-modified (TICS-m) and used crude and propensity score adjusted inverse probability weighted generalized linear models to estimate the impact of NMDAR1-abs serostatus on TICS-m.

Results

Data on NMDAR1-abs (median day of sampling = 4[IQR = 2–5]) were available in 583/621 PROSCIS-B patients (39% female; median NIHSS = 2[IQR = 1–4]; median MMSE = 28[IQR:26–30]), of whom 76(13%) were seropositive (IgM: n = 48/IgA: n = 43/IgG: n = 2). Any NMDAR1-abs seropositivity had no impact on TICS-m compared to seronegative patients (βcrude = 0.69[95%CI = – 0.84 to 2.23]; βadjusted = 0.65[95%CI = – 1.00 to 2.30]). Patients with low titers scored better on TICS-m compared to seronegative patients (βcrude = 2.33[95%CI = 0.76 to 3.91]; βadjusted = 2.47[95%CI = 0.75 to 4.19]); in contrast, patients with high titers scored lower on TICS-m (βcrude =  –2.82[95%CI = – 4.90 to – 0.74], βadjusted = – 2.96[95%CI = – 5.13 to – 0.80]), compared to seronegative patients.

Conclusion

In our study, NMDAR1-abs seropositivity did not affect CF over 3 years after a first mild to moderate ischemic stroke. CF differed according to NMDAR1-abs serum titer, with patients with high NMDAR1-abs titers having a less favorable cognitive outcome compared to seronegative patients.
When time stands upright: STEARC effects along the vertical axis
Authors: Dalmaso Mario , Schnapper Youval , Vicovaro Michele
Published: June 2022

According to the spatial–temporal association of response codes (STEARC) effect, time can be spatially represented from left to right. However, exploration of a possible STEARC effect along the vertical axis has yielded mixed results. Here, in six experiments based on a novel paradigm, we systematically explored whether a STEARC effect could emerge when participants were asked to classify the actual temporal duration of a visual stimulus. Speeded manual responses were provided using a vertically oriented response box. Interestingly, although a top-to-bottom time representation emerged when only two temporal durations were employed, an inverted bottom-to-top time representation emerged when a denser set of temporal durations, arranged along a continuum, was used. Moreover, no STEARC effects emerged when participants classified the shapes of visual stimuli rather than their temporal duration. Finally, three additional experiments explored the STEARC effect along the horizontal axis, confirming that the paradigm we devised successfully replicated the standard left-to-right representation of time. These results provide supporting evidence for the notion that temporal durations can be mapped along the vertical axis, and that such mapping appears to be relatively flexible.
Analysis of moving cluster with scene constraints for group behavior pattern mining
Authors: Yang Yuanfeng , Li Lin , Zhang Liang , Liu Gang , Liu Zhaobin
Published: June 2022

Group behavior pattern mining in traffic scenarios is a challenging problem due to group variability and behavioral regionality. Most methods are either based on trajectory data stored in static databases regardless of the variability of group members or do not consider the influence of scene structures on behaviors. However, in traffic scenarios, information about group members may change over time, and objects' motions show regional characteristics owing to scene structures. To address these issues, we present a general framework of a moving cluster with scene constraints (MCSC) discovery consisting of semantic region segmentation, mapping, and an MCSC decision. In the first phase, a hidden Markov chain is adopted to model the evolution of behaviors along a video clip sequence, and a Markov topic model is proposed for semantic region analysis. During the mapping procedure, to generate snapshot clusters, moving objects are mapped into the corresponding sets of moving objects according to the semantic regions where they are located at each timestamp. In the MCSC decision phase, a candidate MCSC recognition algorithm and screening algorithm are designed to incrementally identify and output MCSCs. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is verified by experiments carried out using public road traffic data.
The Fractional CIO in SMEs: conceptualization and research agenda
Authors: Kratzer Simon , Drechsler Andreas , Westner Markus , Strahringer Susanne
Published: June 2022

We conceptualize the new phenomenon of the Fractional Chief Information Officer (CIO) as a part-time executive who usually works for more than one primarily small- to medium-sized enterprise (SME) and develop promising avenues for future research on Fractional CIOs. We conduct an empirical study by drawing on semi-structured interviews with 40 individuals from 10 different countries who occupy a Fractional CIO role. We derive a definition for the Fractional CIO, distinguish it from other forms of employment, and compare it with existing research on CIO roles. Further, we find four salient engagement types of Fractional CIOs offering value for SMEs in various situations: Strategic IT management, Restructuring, Rapid scaling, and Hands-on support. The results reveal similarities with existing CIO roles as well as novel insights concerning the different engagement types. Lastly, we propose a research agenda for the Fractional CIO field, based on four research themes derived from existing CIO research and insights from the interviews.
Charophyte communities in Barremian Iberian wetlands
Authors: Pérez-Cano Jordi , Bover-Arnal Telm , Martín-Closas Carles
Published: June 2022

A combined micropalaeontological, taphonomical and sedimentological study was carried out in the non-marine Barremian of the Maestrat Basin (E Iberian Chain) to elucidate the palaeoecology of Barremian charophytes. Understanding the palaeoecology of fossil charophytes is of prime importance for the accurate application of charophyte biozonations, since most species used as biostratigraphic markers and/or biozone index species are restricted to facies formed in a particular environment. Five charophyte biocoenoses were distinguished. (1) Charophyte association from freshwater alkaline lakes receiving low clastic input, mainly composed of Atopochara trivolvis var. triquetra, Clavator harrisii, Ascidiella stellata, and A. triquetra. The thalli known as Munieria grambastii, corresponding to Clavator utricles, were extremely abundant in the shallowest facies of the lake margins, and Hemiclavator-rich populations were also locally dominant. (2) An association characteristic of freshwater alkaline lakes with high clastic input was mainly composed of Echinochara lazarii, Globator maillardii var. trochiliscoides, A. trivolvis var. triquetra, C. harrisii, Hemiclavator neimongolensis var. neimongolensis, and locally also Clavator calcitrapus. (3) Monospecific populations of Porochara maestratica thrived in brackish settings with little clastic influence, whereas (4) monospecific E. lazarii populations thrived in clastic-influenced brackish settings. (5) A charophyte association grew in lakes that developed in mudflat to floodplain environments and was mainly constituted by E. lazarii, A. trivolvis var. triquetra, and C. harrisii var. harrisii and var. reyi. Accordingly, the palaeoenvironmental conditions inferred indicate that most of the charophyte species were controlled by (i) bathymetry, (ii) clastic content in the sedimentary environment and (iii) salinity. The stratigraphic succession studied shows an upwards increase in clastic content from the base to the top, which is associated with the more humid period recorded along the margins of the Tethys and the Boreal realm during the early Barremian–early late Barremian. In consequence, those species restricted to clastic-poor settings are constrained to the lower part of the section, whereas those taxa that were able to thrive in clastic-rich settings persisted throughout the entire section. This observation establishes a link between the changes observed in the charophyte floras recognized and the environmental changes that occurred during the Barremian in western Europe.
Philosophy of science in practice in ecological model building
Authors: Poliseli Luana , Coutinho Jeferson G. E. , Viana Blandina , Russo Federica , El-Hani Charbel N.
Published: June 2022

This article addresses the contributions of the literature on the new mechanistic philosophy of science for the scientific practice of model building in ecology.
This is reflected in a one-to-one interdisciplinary collaboration between an ecologist and a philosopher of science during science-in-the-making. We argue that the identification, reconstruction and understanding of mechanisms is context-sensitive, and for this case study mechanistic modeling did not present a normative role but a heuristic one. We expect our study to provides useful epistemic tools for the improvement of empirically-riven work in the debates about mechanistic explanation of ecological phenomena.
Substitution Preferences for Fish in Senegal
Authors: Lancker Kira , Bronnmann Julia
Published: June 2022

In a marine multi-species environment, consumers’ decisions may introduce interactions between species beyond biological ecosystem links. The theoretical literature shows that consumer preferences for variety can trigger a sequential (local) extinction of fish stocks. However, consumer preferences are not yet fully understood empirically, as it is uncertain how variety-loving consumers really are, in particular in specific settings such as in developing countries. In this article, we present an aggregation procedure to study consumer preferences in a highly diverse marine system. In a first step, we use co-integration analysis and aggregation theorems by Hicks and Lewbel to find groups of species that consumers find substitutable. In a second step, we use a direct quadratic almost ideal demand system (QUAIDS) to estimate price elasticities between these groups. We then quantify and compare welfare losses and spillovers from species-specific price shocks that may for example result from restoration efforts. Our case study from Senegal across 28 species reveals evidence that consumers do indeed have a preference for diversity of species on their plates.
Identifying benchmark units for research management and evaluation
Authors: Wang Qi , Jeppsson Tobias
Published: June 2022

While normalized bibliometric indicators are expected to resolve the subject-field differences between organizations in research evaluations, the identification of reference organizations working on similar research topics is still of importance. Research organizations, policymakers and research funders tend to use benchmark units as points of comparison for a certain research unit in order to understand and monitor its development and performance. In addition, benchmark organizations can also be used to pinpoint potential collaboration partners or competitors. Therefore, methods for identifying benchmark research units are of practical significance. Even so, few studies have further explored this problem. This study aims to propose a bibliometric approach for the identification of benchmark units. We define an appropriate benchmark as a well-connected research environment, in which researchers investigate similar topics and publish a similar number of publications compared to a given research organization during the same period. Four essential attributes for the evaluation of benchmarks are research topics, output, connectedness, and scientific impact. We apply this strategy to two research organizations in Sweden and examine the effectiveness of the proposed method. Identified benchmark units are evaluated by examining the research similarity and the robustness of various measures of connectivity.
Community Members Prioritise Indicators of Both Mental Health and Wellbeing to Define Flourishing and Quality of Life: Towards The Total Psychological Health Framework
Authors: Burns Richard Andrew , Crisp Dimity Ann , Chng Jiayun , Murray Kristen
Published: June 2022

Current frameworks define flourishing in terms of wellbeing alone. This paper examines whether community members similarly define flourishing in terms of wellbeing or whether they prioritise both wellbeing and mental health. We also compare whether those indicators of wellbeing and mental health prioritised to define flourishing are similarly important for community members’ definition of quality of life. Results are from 2 surveys of community respondents (Survey 1 n = 359; Survey 2 n = 287) aged between 18 and 84 years. Participants were asked to identify 5 indicators of wellbeing or mental health which best reflected ‘Quality of Life’ (Survey 1), and Flourishing (Survey 2). Eleven indicators of wellbeing were from the European Social Survey (ESS) Wellbeing module and nine indicators of mental health were from the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Disorders V.5 (DSM 5) diagnoses for Major Depressive Disorder and Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Respondents defined flourishing and quality of life in similar ways and in terms of a combination of mental health and wellbeing indicators. Importantly respondents rated both wellbeing and absence of mental illness as reflecting flourishing. There was no single indicator that was endorsed by all participants; instead a range of wellbeing and mental health indicators were endorsed by participants as reflecting flourishing and quality of life. Contrary to current flourishing frameworks, community respondents defined flourishing in terms of both the presence of wellbeing and absence of mental illness. We propose a new model of psychological health that is informed by both wellbeing and mental health/illness and where flourishing is defined in terms of both wellbeing and mental health.
Understanding probability and irreversibility in the Mori-Zwanzig projection operator formalism
Authors: te Vrugt Michael
Published: June 2022

Explaining the emergence of stochastic irreversible macroscopic dynamics from time-reversible deterministic microscopic dynamics is one of the key problems in philosophy of physics. The Mori-Zwanzig (MZ) projection operator formalism, which is one of the most important methods of modern nonequilibrium statistical mechanics, allows for a systematic derivation of irreversible transport equations from reversible microdynamics and thus provides a useful framework for understanding this issue. However, discussions of the MZ formalism in philosophy of physics tend to focus on simple variants rather than on the more sophisticated ones used in modern physical research. In this work, I will close this gap by studying the problems of probability and irreversibility using the example of Grabert’s time-dependent projection operator formalism. This allows to better understand how general proposals for understanding probability in statistical mechanics, namely (a) quantum approaches and (b) almost-objective probabilities, can be accomodated in the MZ formalism. Moreover, I will provide a detailed physical analysis, based on the MZ formalism, of various proposals from the philosophical literature, such as (a) Robertson’s theory of justifying coarse-graining via autonomous macrodynamics, (b) Myrvold’s problem of explaining autonomous macrodynamics, and (c) Wallace’s simple dynamical conjecture.
Application of hybrid artificial neural network (ANN)–particle swarm optimization (PSO) for modelling and optimization of the adsorptive removal of cyanide and phenol from wastewater using agro-waste-derived adsorbent
Authors: Pramanik Sabyasachi , Sarkar Biswajit , Lahiri Sandip , Ghanta Kartik Chandra , Dutta Susmita
Published: June 2022

In the present study, the waste part of the banana tree was used as a precursor, and copper chloride salt was used as an impregnating agent for the preparation of adsorbent to remove both cyanide and phenol from synthetic wastewater. Initially, thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the rate of carbonization of the material with temperature, and thus, the optimum temperature (370 °C) and time of carbonization (35 min) were assessed. Different samples of adsorbents were prepared next by varying the weight ratio of pseudo-stem of waste banana tree to copper salt from 1:1 to 30:1. All the samples were then tested for removal of both the pollutants, and the ratio (20:1) corresponding to maximum removal of both the pollutants was considered as optimum. Therefore, further studies were conducted with the adsorbent prepared at optimum ratio, temperature and time and such adsorbent was termed as copper impregnated activated banana tree (CIABT). One variable at a time approach was followed to find out the most effective condition based on the maximum removal of pollutants. Maximum removal of 95.99 ± 1.03% and 97.33 ± 0.04% was achieved for cyanide (initial concentration: 100 ppm) and phenol (initial concentration: 450 ppm), respectively, at an optimum contact time of 150 min, the particle size of 90 μ, the adsorbent dosage of 10 g/L, pH 8.0 using CIABT at 25 °C. Hybrid artificial neural network–particle swarm optimization were employed for modelling-optimization of removal of both the pollutants while achieving 91.4–99.99% and 86.43–99.99% removal of cyanide and phenol, respectively, from simulated wastewater.
Bounded learning progressions: a framework to capture young children’s development of mathematical activity in play-based contexts
Authors: Cutting Chelsea , Lowrie Thomas
Published: June 2022

Learning progressions have become increasingly prevalent in mathematics education as they offer a fine-grain map of possible learning pathways a child may take within a particular domain. However, there is an opportunity to build upon this research in ways that consider learning from multiple perspectives. Many current forms of learning progressions describe learning pathways without explicit consideration of how related skills and contexts directly or indirectly enhance or influence learning. That is, the structured and unstructured learning contexts that can help children develop conceptual understanding in a range of STEM contexts. We consider learning progressions from multiple perspectives, which will be particularly important for supporting learning in early years, play-based contexts. We propose a novel theoretical perspective, termed Bounded Learning Progressions (BLP), which demonstrates the connection and influence ways of reasoning have on the progression of learning in specific domains, bounded by the context in which learning develops. We suggest that this approach provides a broader perspective of children’s learning capabilities and the possible connections between such abilities, acknowledging the critical role context plays in the development of learning.
Use of rituximab in SARS-CoV-2-positive renal transplant recipient with EBV reactivation and probable haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Chan Derek , Karimi Sabina , Follows George , Torpey Nicholas , Suchanek Ondrej
Published: June 2022

We present a case of a rapid clinical recovery in a critically ill kidney transplant recipient with SARS-CoV-2 positivity, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) reactivation and probable secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) treated with etoposide-free regimen, based on dexamethasone and a single dose of rituximab. Although rituximab is often a part of EBV-HLH treatment strategy, its use in simultaneous Coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) and solid-organ transplantation has not been reported yet. We review the current evidence for the potential of SARS-CoV-2 to trigger EBV reactivation, leading to a severe clinical illness. Finally, we compare the clinical features of hyper-inflammatory response typical for severe COVID-19 and classical secondary HLH and discuss the benefits of therapeutic B-cell depletion in both conditions.
Diagnosing similarities in probabilistic multi-model ensembles: an application to soil–plant-growth-modeling
Authors: Schäfer Rodrigues Silva Aline , Weber Tobias K. D. , Gayler Sebastian , Guthke Anneli , Höge Marvin , Nowak Wolfgang , Streck Thilo
Published: June 2022

There has been an increasing interest in using multi-model ensembles over the past decade. While it has been shown that ensembles often outperform individual models, there is still a lack of methods that guide the choice of the ensemble members. Previous studies found that model similarity is crucial for this choice. Therefore, we introduce a method that quantifies similarities between models based on so-called energy statistics. This method can also be used to assess the goodness-of-fit to noisy or deterministic measurements. To guide the interpretation of the results, we combine different visualization techniques, which reveal different insights and thereby support the model development. We demonstrate the proposed workflow on a case study of soil–plant-growth modeling, comparing three models from the Expert-N library. Results show that model similarity and goodness-of-fit vary depending on the quantity of interest. This confirms previous studies that found that “there is no single best model” and hence, combining several models into an ensemble can yield more robust results.
Non-linear Neutrosophic Numbers and Its Application to Multiple Criteria Performance Assessment
Authors: Reig-Mullor Javier , Salas-Molina Francisco
Published: June 2022

The concept of fuzzy set has been extended by neutrosophic fuzzy sets to represent sets whose elements have different degrees of membership characterized by a truth-membership function, an indeterminacy-membership function and a falsity-membership function. It is usually assumed that these functions are linear, hence excluding the possibility of non-linearity in many decision-making situations. From an alternative definition of non-linear neutrosophic numbers, we develop the concepts of $$(\alpha ,\beta ,\gamma )$$

(
α
,
β
,
γ
)

-cuts, possibility mean, variance, skewness and a new possibility score function. These concepts are useful to deal with multiple criteria decision making problems. We illustrate the practical use of these concepts by means of a real case study in supply chain risk management in the motor industry. Due to the fact that neutrosophic sets have been used in several areas of decision-making, finance and economics, we argue that our proposal contributes to enhance the application of neutrosophic numbers.