bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusive tourism: a priority for Portugal
Authors: Calheiros Francisco
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to outline how inclusive tourism promotes competitiveness by making the destination more accessible and so able to receive any tourist.

Design/methodology/approach

This a viewpoint reflection that outlines why inclusive tourism should be a priority for Portugal.

Findings

Portugal has been demonstrating, over the years, that it is imperative to think strategically about tourism from different perspectives, with the numerous awards and recognition of exceptional results confirming this practice.

Practical implications

The viewpoint advocates an urgent and positive response to the challenge of inclusion and accessibility, by adapting policies to make destinations available for all.

Originality/value

The case of Portugal is presented, revealing a country that is open to the world and attentive to changes in tourists’ profiles.
Metal accumulation and its effect on leaf herbivory in an allopolyploid species Arabidopsis kamchatica inherited from a diploid hyperaccumulator A. halleri
Authors: Shimizu‐Inatsugi Rie , Milosavljevic Silvija , Shimizu Kentaro K. , Schaepman‐Strub Gabriela , Tanoi Keitaro , Sato Yasuhiro
Published: December 2020

Excessive amounts of metal ions in soil are toxic for most plant species, yet metal can also facilitate plant survival by elemental defense against herbivores and pathogens. Zinc and cadmium hyperaccumulation in Arabidopsis halleri is known to be effective for the defense against natural enemies. The allotetraploid species A. kamchatica, derived from A. halleri and a non‐hyperaccumulator A. lyrata, has a lower hyperaccumulation level of zinc than A. halleri, but its significance for elemental defense remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the accumulation levels of zinc and cadmium in the allotetraploid compared with its diploid progenitors, and evaluated the contribution of metal treatments to anti‐herbivore resistance under field conditions. The accumulation level of zinc in A. kamchatica was intermediate between the progenitors, but that of cadmium was lower than in both diploid progenitors. The elemental defense of A. kamchatica and A. halleri was supported by a field experiment comparing the herbivory level between a control group and metal‐supplemented plants. Moreover, the effect of elemental defense was lower in A. kamchatica than in the hyperaccumulator progenitor A. halleri, which is consistent with the metal accumulation level. This result reveals that the allotetraploid plant inherited its hyperaccumulating ability from one progenitor as an advantageous trait but at an intermediate level.
Spheroids and organoids as humanized 3D scaffold‐free engineered tissues for SARS‐CoV‐2 viral infection and drug screening
Authors: Kronemberger Gabriela S. , Carneiro Fabiana A. , Rezende Danielle F. , Baptista Leandra S.
Published: December 2020

The new coronavirus (2019‐nCoV) or the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) was officially declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic in March 2020. To date, there are no specific antiviral drugs proven to be effective in treating SARS‐CoV‐2, requiring joint efforts from different research fronts to discover the best route of treatment. The first decisions in drug discovery are based on 2D cell culture using high‐throughput screening. In this context, spheroids and organoids emerge as a reliable alternative. Both are scaffold‐free 3D engineered constructs that recapitulate key cellular and molecular events of tissue physiology. Different studies have already shown their advantages as a model for different infectious diseases, including SARS‐CoV‐2 and for drug screening. The use of these 3D engineered tissues as an in vitro model can fill the gap between 2D cell culture and in vivo preclinical assays (animal models) as they could recapitulate the entire viral life cycle. The main objective of this review is to understand spheroid and organoid biology, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages, and how these scaffold‐free engineered tissues can contribute to a better comprehension of viral infection by SARS‐CoV‐2 and to the development of in vitro high‐throughput models for drug screening.
Assessing Facets of Mindfulness in the Context of Work: The Mindfulness@Work Scale as a Work‐Specific, Multidimensional Measure of Mindfulness
Authors: Hülsheger Ute R. , Alberts Hugo J.E.M.
Published: December 2020

The mindfulness at work literature lacks a multi‐faceted measure of mindfulness that is applicable in the work context. Building on predominantly clinically oriented, multi‐faceted mindfulness measures, we aimed to develop and validate such a measure and to provide first insights into differential validities of mindfulness subfacets for work outcomes. Data from seven work samples (overall n = 4,977) provided support that (a) a 4‐factor structure representing the subfacets of Describing, Nonreactivity, Nonjudging, and Act with Awareness replicates across samples; (b) subfacets and overall scale have good internal consistency and retest reliability; (c) the measure demonstrates convergent and discriminant validity; (d) it demonstrates criterion‐related validity for well‐being, motivational, and interpersonal work outcomes; (e) the Mindfulness@Work Scale explains variance in outcome variables above a unidimensional measures of mindfulness supporting its incremental validity. Furthermore, relative weights and incremental validity analyses revealed differential validities of subfacets of the Mindfulness@Work Scale in relation to positive psychological states versus psychological distress. Overall, findings suggest that the Mindfulness@Work Scale has good psychometric properties and that a differentiation of subfacets provides novel insights into the role of mindfulness for work outcomes.
Racing to immunity: Journey to a COVID‐19 vaccine and lessons for the future
Authors: Calvo Fernández Ester , Zhu Lucie Y.
Published: December 2020

SARS‐CoV‐2 is the novel coronavirus behind the COVID‐19 pandemic. Since its emergence, the global scientific community has mobilized to study this virus, and an overwhelming effort to identify COVID‐19 treatments is currently ongoing for a variety of therapeutics and prophylactics. To better understand these efforts, we compiled a list of all COVID‐19 vaccines undergoing preclinical and clinical testing using the WHO and ClinicalTrials.gov database, with details surrounding trial design and location. The most advanced vaccines are discussed in more detail, with a focus on their technology, advantages and disadvantages, as well as any available recent clinical findings. We also cover some of the primary challenges, safety concerns and public responses to COVID‐19 vaccine trials, and consider what this can mean for the future. By compiling this information, we aim to facilitate a more thorough understanding of the extensive COVID‐19 clinical testing vaccine landscape as it unfolds, and better highlight some of the complexities and challenges being faced by the joint effort of the scientific community in finding a prophylactic against COVID‐19.
The impact of different determinants on the dental caries experience of children living in Australia rural and urban areas
Authors: Ha Diep H. , Crocombe Leonard A. , Khan Shahrukh , Do Loc G.
Published: December 2020

Aims

Evidence suggests there are geographical variations in child oral health and this has prompted research into determinants of that variation. This study aimed to investigate factors attributable to the difference in child oral health between urban and rural areas in Australia.

Method

Data were from the National Child Oral Health Study 2012‐14, a population‐based study of 5‐ to 14‐year‐old children, who underwent oral epidemiological examinations by trained examiners. Caries prevalence (dmfs/DMFS > 0) and experience (dmfs/DMFS count) in the primary dentition (5‐ to 8‐year‐old) and permanent dentition (9‐ to 14‐year‐old) were calculated. Children were grouped by residential location (urban or rural areas). A parental questionnaire collected information on family socio‐economic factors, and individual health behaviours (dental access, sugar consumption and toothbrushing). Residential history was used to calculate lifetime exposure to water fluoridation (WF). Analyses were weighted to produce population‐representative estimates. The primary outcomes were assessed separately for the two groups in regression models with robust standard error estimation to estimate prevalence ratios and mean ratios and their 95% confidence intervals. Population Attributable Fractions were calculated using the population distribution of the exposures and their adjusted estimates.

Results

10 581 5‐ to 8‐year‐old and 14 041 9‐ to 14‐year‐old children were included. Caries prevalence was higher in rural than in urban areas. In multivariable models, exposure to fluoridation, reason for dental visit and consumption of sugary beverages were consistently associated with caries prevalence and experience. WF coverage attributed to differences in caries prevalence (10% vs 21%) and experience (14% vs 35%) in the permanent dentition. High consumption of sugary beverages attributed to a higher primary and permanent dental caries experience in rural than in urban areas. Dental access was also attributed to the differences between the two areas.

Conclusion

Factors at both community and individual levels attributed to the observed differences in child caries prevalence and experience between urban and rural areas.
Performance of Plasma Adenosine as a Biomarker for Predicting Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Simard Trevor , Jung Richard G. , Di Santo Pietro , Ramirez F. Daniel , Labinaz Alisha , Gaudet Chantal , Motazedian Pouya , Parlow Simon , Joseph Joanne , Moreland Robert , Marbach Jeffrey , Boland Paul , Promislow Steven , Russo Juan J. , Chong Aun‐Yeong , So Derek , Froeschl Michael , Le May Michel , Hibbert Benjamin
Published: December 2020

Adenosine boasts promising preclinical and clinical data supporting a vital role in modulating vascular homeostasis. Its widespread use as a diagnostic and therapeutic agent have been limited by its short half‐life and complex biology, though adenosine‐modulators have shown promise in improving vascular healing. Moreover, circulating adenosine has shown promise in predicting cardiovascular (CV) events. We sought to delineate whether circulating plasma adenosine levels predict CV events in patients undergoing invasive assessment for coronary artery disease. Patients undergoing invasive angiography had clinical data prospectively recorded in the Cardiovascular and Percutaneous ClInical TriALs (CAPITAL) revascularization registry and blood samples collected in the CAPITAL Biobank from which adenosine levels were quantified. Tertile‐based analysis was used to assess prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of death, myocardial infarction, unplanned revascularization, and cerebrovascular accident). Secondary analyses included MACE subgroups, clinical subgroups and adenosine levels. There were 1,815 patients undergoing angiography who had blood collected with adenosine quantified in 1,323. Of those quantified, 51.0% were revascularized and 7.3% experienced MACE in 12 months of follow‐up. Tertile‐based analysis failed to demonstrate any stratification of MACE rates (log rank, P = 0.83), when comparing low‐to‐middle (hazard ratio (HR) 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–1.78, P = 0.70) or low‐to‐high adenosine tertiles (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.56–1.57, P = 0.84). In adjusted analysis, adenosine similarly failed to predict MACE. Finally, adenosine did not predict outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome nor in those revascularized or treated medically. Plasma adenosine levels do not predict subsequent CV outcomes or aid in patient risk stratification.
Trait–environment relationships could alter the spatial and temporal characteristics of aquatic insect subsidies at the macrospatial scale
Authors: Kopp Darin , Allen Daniel
Published: December 2020

Ecological flows across ecosystem boundaries are typically studied at spatial scales that limit our understanding of broad geographical patterns in ecosystem linkages. Aquatic insects that metamorphose into terrestrial adults are important resource subsidies for terrestrial ecosystems. Traits related to their development and dispersal should determine their availability to terrestrial consumers. Here, we synthesize geospatial, aquatic biomonitoring and biological traits data to quantify the relative importance of several environmental gradients on the potential spatial and temporal characteristics of aquatic insect subsidies across the contiguous United States. We found the trait composition of benthic macroinvertebrate communities varies among hydrologic regions and could affect how aquatic insects transport subsidies as adults. Further, several trait–environment relationships were underpinned by hydrology. Large bodied taxa that could disperse further from the stream were associated with hydrologically stable conditions. Alternatively, hydrologically variable conditions were associated with multivoltine taxa that could extend the duration of subsidies with periodic emergence events throughout the year. We also found that anthropogenic impacts decrease the frequency of individuals with adult flight but potentially extend the distance subsidies travel into the terrestrial ecosystem. Collectively, these results suggest that natural and anthropogenic gradients could affect aquatic insect subsidies by changing the trait composition of benthic macroinvertebrate communities. The conceptual framework and trait–environment relationships we present shows promise for understanding broad geographical patterns in linkages between ecosystems.
Fetal exposure to the Great Chinese Famine and risk of ischemic stroke in midlife
Authors: Tao Boni , Yang Peng , Wang Cun , Du Wei , Shen Peixuan , Wu Ying , Ding Xiong , Chen Shuohua , Wu Shouling , Li Yun
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose

Epidemiological studies have reported an association between famine exposure and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it is unclear whether fetal exposure to the Great Chinese Famine of 1959 to 1961 was associated with risk of ischemic stroke in midlife.

Methods

A total of 17,787 participants of the Kailuan study, who were free of cardiovascular disease and cancer at baseline (2006) were enrolled in the study. All participants were divided into three groups: unexposed (born between 1 October 1962 and 30 September 1964, used as the reference group in current analyses), fetal exposure (born between 1 October 1959 and 30 September 1961), and early childhood exposure (born between 1 October 1956 and 30 September 1958). Incident ischemic stroke cases between 2006 and 2017 were confirmed by review of medical records. Cox proportional hazards regression was applied to analyze the effect of fetal famine exposure on ischemic stroke risk.

Results

During the mean (10.4 ± 2.2) years of follow‐up, 547 incident ischemic stroke cases were identified. After adjustment for potential confounders, the hazard ratio (HR) for ischemic stroke was 1.45, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) was 1.14, 1.84 for fetal famine–exposed compared with unexposed individuals. Similar associations were observed in men (adjusted HR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.80) and overweight individuals (adjusted HR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.18, 2.07), but not in their counterparts. The results of the early childhood–exposed group were similar to the above.

Conclusions

Our findings support an association between fetal malnutrition and higher risk of ischemic stroke in adulthood.
Yellow‐breasted Boubous (Laniarius atroflavus) jointly defend territories with male‐led duets against stranger pairs, males and females
Authors: Wheeldon Amie , Szymański Paweł , Osiejuk Tomasz S.
Published: December 2020

Duetting is a cooperative behaviour that can have multiple functions. All 22 species within the genus Laniarius (Malaconotidae family) produce duets and solos with varying levels of complexity. We experimentally investigated the Yellow‐breasted Boubou (Laniarius atroflavus), an endemic species from W African montane forests, which uses sex‐specific signals for both solos and duets. Using two different experiments, we tested the response of territorial pairs, during the breeding season, to the playback of male and female solos and duets in order to investigate their functions in context of territorial intrusion. For the experimental intrusions of duetting pairs, we simulated the male and female songs at a close distance to each other as well as at a larger distance. The first goal was to assess whether intruder type affects the responsiveness of territory owners. The second goal was to examine how spatial segregation of intruding pairs singing duets affects the response. The majority of tested pairs responded to playback by approaching speaker(s) and singing. We found the strongest approach response was to the playback of duets and male solos, with the response to female solo being weak or having no response. The male‐initiated, and led, duet was the most frequent and intensive vocal response, while female‐initiated duets and solos of both sexes were less often observed. Regardless of the treatment type, the joint response of a pair was stronger if females were involved in it. Results indicate that in Yellow‐breasted Boubous, males have the leading role in responding to intruders regardless of the sex or if they intrude the territory as a solo or as a duetting pair. Males were observed increasing their response strength when motivated by their mates, suggesting that female vocalisations are addressed to their own partner. Our results suggest that the most probable function of duets in the studied species is joint resource defence; however, mate guarding and the guarding of paternity are still possible. Our results are consistent with earlier findings showing that structural differences in male and female song of several Laniarius species can be the result of evolution under similar pressure from the need to defend resources together and the potential betrayal of a partner.
Prediction of transition from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease based on a logistic regression–artificial neural network–decision tree model
Authors: Kuang Jie , Zhang Pin , Cai TianPan , Zou ZiXuan , Li Li , Wang Nan , Wu Lei
Published: December 2020

Aim

To develop a logistic regression model, artificial neural network (ANN) model and decision tree (DT) model for the progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD) to compare the performance of the three models.

Methods

A total of 425 patients with MCI were screened from the original cohort. The actual follow up included 361 patients, with AD as the outcome variable. Three kinds of prediction models were developed: a logistic regression model, ANN model and DT model. The performance of all three models was measured with accuracy, sensitivity, positive predictive value and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

A total of 121 patients with MCI developed AD, and the average conversion rate was 9.49% per year. The ANN model had higher accuracy (89.52 ± 0.36%), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (92.08 ± 0.12), sensitivity (82.11 ± 0.42%) and positive predictive value (75.26 ± 0.86%) than the other two models. The first five important predictors of the ANN model were, in order, ADL score, age, urine AD‐associated neuronal thread protein, alcohol consumption and smoking. For the DT model, they were age, activities of daily living score, family history of dementia, urine AD‐associated neuronal thread protein and alcohol consumption. For the logistic regression model, they were age, sex, activities of daily living score, alcohol consumption and smoking.

Conclusion

The logistic regression, ANN and DT models performed well at predicting the transition from MCI to AD with ideal stability. However, the ANN model had the best predictive value. Increased age, activities of daily living score, urine AD‐associated neuronal thread protein, alcohol consumption, smoking and sex were important factors. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 43–47.
Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Bibliographic Review 2019
Authors: Weis Ulrike , Stoll Brigitte , Arns Jodok , Förster Michael W. , Kaiser Viktoria , Otter Laura M. , Reichstein Lea , Jochum Klaus Peter
Published: December 2020

This bibliographic review gives an outline of publications in 2019 focusing on reference materials (RMs) used in geochemistry and related fields, such as palaeoclimate and environmental research.
Public perspectives on acquired brain injury rehabilitation and components of care: A Citizens’ Jury
Authors: Lannin Natasha A. , Coulter Megan , Laver Kate , Hyett Nerida , Ratcliffe Julie , Holland Anne E. , Callaway Libby , English Coralie , Bragge Peter , Hill Sophie , Unsworth Carolyn A.
Published: December 2020

Background

Brain injury rehabilitation is an expensive and long‐term endeavour. Very little published information or debate has underpinned policy for service delivery in Australia. Within the context of finite health budgets and the challenges associated with providing optimal care to persons with brain injuries, members of the public were asked ‘What considerations are important to include in a model of care of brain injury rehabilitation?’

Methods

Qualitative study using the Citizen Jury method of participatory research. Twelve adult jurors from the community and seven witnesses participated including a health services funding model expert, peak body representative with lived experience of brain injury, carer of a person with a brain injury, and brain injury rehabilitation specialists. Witnesses were cross‐examined by jurors over two days.

Results

Key themes related to the need for a model of rehabilitation to: be consumer‐focused and supporting the retention of hope; be long‐term; provide equitable access to services irrespective of funding source; be inclusive of family; provide advocacy; raise public awareness; and be delivered by experts in a suitable environment. A set of eight recommendations were made.

Conclusion

Instigating the recommendations made requires careful consideration of the need for new models of care with flexible services; family involvement; recruitment and retention of highly skilled staff; and providing consumer‐focused services that prepare individuals and their carers for the long term.

Patient and public contribution

As jury members, the public deliberated information provided by expert witnesses (including a person with a head injury) and wrote the key recommendations.
Moral Extremism
Authors: Case Spencer Jay
Published: December 2020

The word ‘extremist’ is often used pejoratively, but it’s not clear what, if anything, is wrong with extremism. My project is to give an account of moral extremism as a vice. It consists roughly in having moral convictions so intense that they cause a sort of moral tunnel vision, pushing salient competing considerations out of mind. We should be interested in moral extremism for several reasons: it’s consequential, it’s insidious – we don’t expect immorality to arise from excessive devotion to morality – and it’s yet to attract much philosophical attention. I give several examples of moral extremism from history and explore their social‐political implications. I also consider how we should evaluate people who miss the mark, being either too extreme in the service of a good cause or inconsistent with their righteous convictions. I compare John Brown and John Quincy Adams, who fell on either side of this spectrum, as examples.
The effects of an augmented reality based magnetic experimental tool on students' knowledge improvement and cognitive load
Authors: Liu Qingtang , Yu Shufan , Chen Wenli , Wang Qiyun , Xu Suxiao
Published: December 2020

While the use of experiments is important for developing students' scientific knowledge and skills, challenges may arise when teachers and students are conducting experiments in class, such as non‐reusable experimental resources, safety issues and difficulties simulating some specific effects. Augmented reality (AR) technology affords an alternative approach to conducting experiments by bringing students a virtual–real mixed learning environment. In this study, taking junior high school physics knowledge on the magnetic field as an example, we designed and developed an AR‐based mobile simulated experiment tool. This study investigates the effect of the AR‐based experiment on students' knowledge improvement and cognitive load compared with 3D and traditional experiments. A sample of 122 ninth‐grade students was randomly chosen and assigned to three groups (AR, 3D and Traditional). The results demonstrate that students in the AR group performed better than those in the 3D and Traditional groups in terms of their knowledge improvement. The AR group students also experienced the lowest cognitive load among the three groups. Moreover, students had positive perceptions about AR and 3D tools. The implications of this study are discussed.
Delineation of multiple metamorphic events in the Himalayan Kathmandu Complex, central Nepal
Authors: Johnson Thomas A. , Cottle John M. , Larson Kyle P.
Published: December 2020

Quartz‐inclusion geothermobarometry of texturally and chemically zoned garnet, together with U–(Th)–Pb accessory phase petrochronology, phase equilibria modelling, and major element thermobarometry delineates two metamorphic events within the Kathmandu Complex in central Nepal. Combined titanium‐in‐quartz thermometry (TitaniQ) and quartz‐in‐garnet barometry (QuiG) of quartz inclusions in garnet cores yields temperatures and pressures (555–580°C, 0.89–0.91 GPa) statistically higher than those estimated for both garnet rims and secondary garnet neoblasts (535–545°C, 0.81–0.84 GPa). Comparison of these temperatures and pressures with the results from phase equilibria modelling indicates that the garnet cores nucleated after overstepping the equilibrium garnet isograd. Estimation of the degree to which overstepping may have occurred, however, is complicated by uncertainty in the estimated reactive bulk compositions. Major element thermobarometry of the garnet rims returns temperatures and pressures lower than those preserved by the garnet cores but are consistent with previous estimates of Cenozoic metamorphism in the frontal portion of Kathmandu thrust sheet. Two generations of titanite are recognized on the basis of mineral morphology, chemical zoning, and U–Pb date (c. 500 Ma versus 29 ± 5 Ma). Trace‐element systematics of the two titanite populations indicate varying co‐stability with allanite and are consistent with Th–Pb dates of allanite growth (c. 489 Ma) and breakdown to clinozoisite (c. 30 Ma). Inclusion patterns within titanite indicate that the younger group formed following breakdown of rutile that originally coexisted with the older generation of titanite at pressures and temperatures similar to those determined from the garnet cores. Application of the Zr‐in‐titanite and Zr‐in‐rutile thermometers yields temperatures 100–150°C in excess of those indicated by both TitaniQ‐QuiG and major element thermobarometry. This discrepancy is interpreted to reflect disequilibrium partitioning of Zr and limited zircon reactivity during metamorphism. Collectively, these observations are consistent with previous estimates of the timing and conditions of metamorphism associated with the Palaeozoic Bhimphedian and Cenozoic Himalayan orogenies in central Nepal. The estimated temperatures and pressures for growth of the garnet cores are consistent with rapid burial during thrust stacking.
Brainstem auditory‐evoked response in healthy African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)
Authors: Teubenbacher U. , Doss G. A. , Guevar J.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To evaluate and describe brainstem auditory‐evoked response measurements in healthy African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris).

Materials and Methods

Brainstem auditory‐evoked response measurements were performed in 12 adult African pygmy hedgehogs (seven males, five females) under general anaesthesia. Waveform morphology was assessed and wave latencies, amplitudes and interpeak latencies calculated.

Results

Brainstem auditory‐evoked response measurements were successfully performed in both ears from all hedgehogs. Three distinct waves were reproducible in all patients in both ears using a stimulus with an intensity of 90 dB nHL (decibel above normal hearing level). Amplitudes of waves I and V, latencies of waves I, II‐III and V and interpeak latencies of waves I‐V were calculated at 90 dB for both ears of each animal.

Clinical Significance

This study describes normal brainstem auditory‐evoked response morphology and latencies for African pygmy hedgehogs. General anaesthesia is required to perform this neurodiagnostic, given the unique behaviour and anatomy of hedgehogs. This baseline data may be useful for investigating hearing abnormalities and central nervous system disorders in hedgehogs.
Electronic Sun Journal Versus Self‐report Sun Diary: A Comparison of Recording Personal Sunlight Exposure Methods
Authors: Dexter Benjamin R. , King Rachel , Parisi Alfio V. , Harrison Simone L. , Igoe Damien P. , Downs Nathan J.
Published: December 2020

This research compared personal sunlight exposure times monitored electronically within suburban Australian environments against self‐report paper journals for determining the timing and total duration of individual exposure to daily solar radiation. A total of 90 Electronic Sun Journal (ESJ) daily readings and self‐report timing and duration estimates of exposure for weekend and weekdays were compared. A Wilcoxon ranked sign test showed a significant difference (V = 157, P < 0.001) between the duration of exposure recorded electronically and the duration of exposure that was self‐reported in a diary. There was also found to be a statistically significant difference between total exposure time measured using both methods for weekends (V = 10, P < 0.001) and weekdays (V = 87, P < 0.001). General trends in outdoor exposure timing confirmed that the most frequent daily exposures received over the weekend occurred between 1 and 2 h earlier than the most frequent exposures received on weekdays. This preliminary research found that exposure durations as recorded by the ESJ were longer on the weekends compared to weekdays (W = 402, P < 0.001) and confirmed that the ESJ is a viable alternative to self‐reporting diaries.
Seed dormancy and germination of Asarum sieboldii, a disjunct relict species in East Asia
Authors: Rhie Y. H. , Lee S. Y. , Walck J. L. , Hidayati S. N.
Published: December 2020

Disjunct species in the same genus are a common feature of the flora in the temperate forests of East Asia and eastern North America. This study aimed to evaluate whether the kind of seed dormancy was maintained after species in the genus Asarum (Aristolochiaceae) were separated from their common ancestor.

We classified the seed dormancy of Asarum sieboldii, an East Asian species, based on a phenology study and experiments in controlled temperature conditions, and then compared it to that of the previously studied A. canadense, an eastern North American species.

The underdeveloped embryo of A. sieboldii grew and germinated (radicle emergence) in autumn but shoot emergence did not occur until the following spring. The seeds of A. sieboldii had deep simple epicotyl morphophysiological dormancy because the seeds with emerged radicle required a relatively long period of cold stratification to break epicotyl dormancy and produce a shoot.

Although the seed of A. sieboldii had weaker radicle dormancy and stronger epicotyl dormancy compared to A. canadense, the kind of seed dormancy was the same for the two species. The trait of seed dormancy was inherited from a shared common ancestor and maintained in populations well after the two species (or their ancestors) separated. However, quantitative differences in temperature requirements for radicle and shoot emergence suggest the possibility of adaptation to the environment.
Donor screening question alternatives to men who have sex with men time deferral: Potential impact on donor deferral and discomfort
Authors: O'Brien Sheila F. , Goldman Mindy , Robillard Pierre , Osmond Lori , Myhal Geneviève , Roy Élise
Published: December 2020

Background

Alternative screening questions could permit low‐risk men who have sex with men (MSM) to donate blood without a time deferral. We performed a study to determine the proportion of current donors who may be deferred by various questions and their comfort with them.

Study Design and Methods

Donors attending collection sites in Canada in January and February 2018 were offered one of two questionnaires but not both. Questionnaire 1 asked about risk behaviors; Questionnaire 2 rated comfort with the questions. Volunteers uncomfortable with questions participated in short qualitative telephone interviews to understand reasons. Quantitative data were analyzed using χ2 statistics.

Results

Of 36 241 donors attending, 31 904 (88%, Period 1) completed Questionnaire 1; of 34 947, a total of 30 278 (87%, Period 2) completed Questionnaire 2; 294 completed an interview. In the past 3 months 3.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.1%‐3.6%) had more than one partner; 6.0% (95% CI, 5.7%‐6.2%) had a new partner; 6.7% (95% CI, 6.4%‐6.9%) were in a nonexclusive relationship; 11.2% (95% CI, 10.9%‐11.6%) had at least one of these; 3.7% (95% CI, 3.4%‐3.9%) had anal sex; and 62.8% (95% CI, 62.2%‐63.3%) had condomless sex. More than 6% were uncomfortable with each question, but more (17.2%; 95% CI, 16.8%‐17.7%) were uncomfortable with anal sex. Key reasons for discomfort were questions being too personal and unclear safety benefit.

Conclusion

Most donors are comfortable answering alternative questions (except very personal ones) but question the benefit. Implementing alternative questions would result in substantive deferrals. Other policies such as using an MSM capture question to ask additional questions only to MSM should be considered.
Parametric Uncertainty and Random Excitation in Energy Harvesting Dynamic Vibration Absorber
Authors: Rajarathinam M. , Ali Shaikh Faruque
Published: December 2020

An energy harvesting dynamic vibration absorber (EHDVA) is studied to suppress undesirable vibrations in a host structure as well as to harvest electrical energy from vibrations using piezoelectric transduction. This work studies the feasibility of using vibration absorber for harvesting energy under random excitation and in presence of parametric uncertainties. A two degrees-of-freedom model is considered in the analytical formulation for the host along with the absorber. A separate equation is used for energy generation from piezoelectric material. Two studies are reported here: (i) with random excitation where the base input is considered to be Gaussian and (ii) parametric uncertainty is considered with harmonic excitation. Under random base excitation, the analytical results show that, with the proper selection of parameters, harvested electrical energy can be increased along with the reduction in vibration of the host structure. Graphs are reported showing tradeoff between harvested energy and vibration control. Whereas, Monte Carlo simulations are carried out to analyze the system with parametric uncertainty. This showed that the mean harvested power decreases with an increase in uncertainties in the natural frequency as well as damping ratio. In addition, optimal electrical parameters for obtaining maximum power for the case of uncertain parameters are also reported in this study.
Efficient Fatigue and Ratcheting Computation in Case of Multi-Parameter Loading
Authors: Vollrath Bastian , Hübel Hartwig
Published: December 2020

Cyclic and over-elastic loading can lead to an accumulation of plastic strains. If there is a cyclic load, which is driven by a single parameter, the lifecycle design can be very costly in terms of computational effort. If more than one cyclic load parameter is to be taken into account, which is then a multi-parameter loading, this task can become even more complex and costly. To solve this problem efficiently, different techniques are proposed. One of these techniques is based on step-by-step calculations of the strain ranges for a reduced set of loadings. Once these strain ranges are known, the accumulated state for each individual load case can be estimated using the Simplified Theory of Plastic Zones (STPZ), which requires just a few linear elastic analyses. It is shown that cyclic loads, which occur in intervals, can be replaced by interval-free calculations, which reduce the computational effort enormously. All these techniques lead to a procedure, which delivers good estimations in terms of post-shakedown quantities with very low computational effort compared to incremental step-by-step calculations. The results of the STPZ are presented by an example. A thick-walled cylinder is loaded with a constant axial force and subjected to cyclic shear and cyclic internal pressure. In general, for structures exhibiting ratcheting, hundreds or more load cycles must be analysed via step-by-step calculations until the shakedown state is reached. Using the STPZ, post-shakedown quantities, including strain ranges and accumulated strains can be estimated efficiently and the structure can be designed according to the rules of the ASME Codes. The computational effort and the quality of the results of the STPZ are compared with a step-by-step calculation.
CIVA Simulation and Experiment Verification for Thin-Walled Small-Diameter Pipes by Using Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing
Authors: Si Jun , Wei Daoxiang , Yang Yuqing , Tang Xiaoying
Published: December 2020

Regular inspection is important to verify the integrity of in-service pipeline in the petrochemical industry. Early detection of flaws is therefore essential to ensure the continued safe operation of pipeline. In generally, Conventional ultrasonic for thin-walled small-diameter pipes has limitations due to regulation requirements, efficiencies, lack of permanent results and repeatability. In many cases, the preferred method of inspection is radiographic testing, however there are many obvious shortcomings for radiographic detection. The aim of this work was to propose appropriate phased array ultrasonic scan plans that were able to achieve the following: reduce the inspection times, improve defect detectability and sizing, and reduce human intervention, which will reduce workforce radiation uptake. Ultrasonic simulation using CIVA and experimental verification for thin-walled small-diameter pipe with flaws that were carried out to determine the most appropriate phased array probe and its detection capabilities in this paper.
Study on the Influence of Crack Growth Behavior on Fatigue Life in Simulated Reactor Coolant Environment of Different Temperature
Authors: Misawa Tatsuru , Kitada Takanori , Nakamura Takao
Published: December 2020

It has been clarified that the fatigue life is decreased in the fatigue test of high-temperature and high-pressure water that simulates PWR reactor coolant environment compared to that in the atmosphere. Temperature, strain rates, dissolved oxygen concentration, etc. affect the decrease of fatigue life.

The influence of crack growth behavior on the fatigue life of Type 316 austenitic stainless steel [1] in simulated PWR reactor coolant environment of different temperatures was investigated in this study. Fatigue tests were conducted under different temperatures (200°C and 325°C) in a simulated PWR reactor coolant environment with interrupting, and cracks generated on the specimen surface were observed with two-step replica method. From the results of observation, the influence of crack growth behavior in different temperatures on the fatigue life was clarified.

As a result, it was confirmed that the decrease of the fatigue life due to high temperature is mainly caused by the acceleration of crack propagation rate in the depth direction by the increase of crack coalescence frequency due to the increase of crack initiation number and crack propagation rate in the length direction.
Research on Chinese Codes and Standards of Heat Transfer Performance Testing for Heat Exchangers
Authors: Ren Bin , Tang Xiaoying , Ren Facai , Wang Jibing , Bai Bofeng
Published: December 2020

Heat exchanger is a device that transfers heat between hot and cold fluids. Due to the different size and type, the actual heat transfer performance is usually not the same as the design value. Meanwhile, various heat exchangers using new types of heat transfer elements have emerged, bringing the difficulty to obtain the heat transfer performance by only theoretical calculation. Therefore, studying test methods and developing test standards for heat exchangers have become the research focus in many countries. In this paper, the basic principles of various performance test methods are firstly introduced, including Wilson plot method, equal Reynolds number method and nonlinear fitting method. Then the restrictions on the use of these methods and the factors affecting the test results are analyzed. Finally, the Chinese codes and standards of performance testing for heat exchangers are listed, including JB/T 10379-2002, GB/T 27698-2011 and TSG R0010-2019. The test methods used in GB/T 27698 are described in detail. The results show that GB 27698 mainly focus on the specification of testing systems and procedures and can test heat transfer performance of almost all types of heat exchangers in industry under different heat transfer modes. However, there are lack of formulas and methods for calculating uncertainty of testing results.
Probabilistic Fracture Mechanics Benchmarking Study Involving the xLPR and PASCAL-SP Codes: Analysis by PASCAL-SP
Authors: Mano Akihiro , Katsuyama Jinya , Li Yinsheng
Published: December 2020

A probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) analysis code, PASCAL-SP, has been developed by Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) to evaluate the failure probability of piping within nuclear power plants considering aged-related degradations such as stress corrosion cracking and fatigue for both pressurized water reactor and boiling water reactor environments. To strengthen the applicability of PASCAL-SP, a benchmarking study is being performed with a PFM analysis code, xLPR, which has been developed by U.S.NRC in collaboration with EPRI.

In this benchmarking study, deterministic and probabilistic analyses are undertaken on primary water stress corrosion cracking using the common analysis conditions. A deterministic analysis on the weld residual stress distributions is also considered. These analyses are carried out by U.S.NRC and JAEA independently using their own codes. Currently, the deterministic analyses by both xLPR and PASCAL-SP codes have been finished and probabilistic analyses are underway.

This paper presents the details of conditions and comparisons of the results between the two aforementioned codes for the deterministic analyses. Both codes were found to provide almost the same results including the values of stress intensity factor. The conditions and results of the probabilistic analysis obtained from PASCAL-SP are also discussed.
Investigation Into Crack Closure Effects for Fatigue Crack Growth Under Negative R Conditions
Authors: Pellereau Ben , Currie Chris , Mann Jonathan , Coult Ben
Published: December 2020

Fatigue crack growth laws are typically dependent on the ratio between minimum and maximum Stress Intensity Factor (SIF), referred to as the load ratio (R). When part of the SIF range is compressive (and hence R is negative) the amount of growth for a given SIF range is reduced due to crack closure effects.

Methods for capturing the effect of crack closure were presented in a previous PVP paper [1]. These methods are based around defining a scaling factor (q0) which is dependent on R and applied to the SIF range before calculated growth. Equations were provided for both best fit and bounding q0 factors.

This paper presents a comparison between these methods and results of testing. The specimens used were square cross-section bars and were made from Type 304L stainless steel with an initial corner crack. A range of load ranges and R ratios (including some positive R values) were used and the testing was undertaken at 250°C in both air and a simulated PWR environment.

The growth rate observed in the tests was used to derive the effective q0 factor observed in each stage of the testing. These values were then compared with the q0 methods that are used in actual defect tolerance calculations. The results agreed very closely with the derived best estimate q0 curves, with no discernible difference between the air and water results.
Allowable External Flaws and Acceptance Standards for High Toughness Ductile Pipes Subjected to Bending Moment and Internal Pressure
Authors: Hasegawa Kunio , Li Yinsheng , Lacroix Valery , Mares Vratislav
Published: December 2020

Failure stresses for ductile high toughness pipes are predicted by Limit Load Criteria based on a net section stress concept. Allowable flaws of the Acceptance Standards provided by the Article IWB-3514 in the ASME B&PV Code Section XI were determined by the Limit Load Criteria. The allowable flaws are applicable for ductile high toughness pipes with circumferential internal and external flaws.

Authors have developed more precise equations using the Limit Load Criteria, which is called Modified Limit Load Criteria, hereafter. As the results of the Modified Limit Load Criteria, failure stresses for external flawed pipes are always smaller than the failure stresses obtained by the Limit Load Criteria provided by the ASME Code Section XI. It seems that the allowable flaw sizes of the Acceptance Standards provided by the ASME Code Section XI are less conservative for external flaws.

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate difference of failure stresses by the Limit Load Criteria and Modified Limit Load Criteria for external flawed pipes. In addition, the allowable flaws of the Acceptance Standards are examined by large and small diameter pipes with external flaws using the Modified Limit Load Criteria.
Review of Technical Basis for ASME Code Section XI Appendix L
Authors: Somasundaram Deepak S. , Dedhia Dilip , Shim Do Jun , Stevens Gary L. , Xu Steven X.
Published: December 2020

Equivalent Single Crack (ESC) sizes are provided in ASME Code, Section XI, Nonmandatory Appendix L, Tables L-3210-1 (for ferritic piping) and L-3210-2 (for austenitic piping). These two tables define initial flaw aspect ratios for use in fatigue flaw tolerance evaluations. These ESC sizes were based on the results of probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) evaluations that determined the equivalent single crack size that resulted in the same probability of through-wall leakage as the case when multiple cracks are initiated and grown around the inner circumference of a pipe. The PFM software, pc-PRAISE, used for the evaluation of ESC sizes had fracture mechanics models based on available data and models in the early 2000s. The stress intensity factor solutions used in pc-PRAISE were generated for a pipe radius-to-thickness ratio, Ri/t, of 5, and used a root-mean-square (RMS) averaged methodology. And the crack growth model was based on NUREG/CR-2189, Volume 5.

This paper presents the results of evaluations to calculate a limited number of ESC sizes using updated fracture mechanics models for stress intensity factor and fatigue crack growth rates. The effect of crack growth due to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in determining the ESCs is also discussed. The impact of the revised ESCs by performing two sample fatigue flaw tolerance problems and the associated results are also presented and discussed in this paper.