bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does technology really outpace policy, and does it matter? A primer for technical experts and others
Authors: Aspray William , Doty Philip
Published: May 2023

This paper reconsiders the outpacing argument, the belief that changes in law and other means of regulation cannot keep pace with recent changes in technology. We focus on information and communication technologies (ICTs) in and of themselves as well as applied in computer science, telecommunications, health, finance, and other applications, but our argument applies also in rapidly developing technological fields such as environmental science, materials science, and genetic engineering. First, we discuss why the outpacing argument is so closely associated with information and computing technologies. We then outline 12 arguments that support the outpacing argument, by pointing to some particular weaknesses of policy making, using the United States as the primary example. Then arguing in the opposite direction, we present 4 brief and 3 more extended criticisms of the outpacing thesis. The paper's final section responds to calls within the technical community for greater engagement of policy and ethical concerns and reviews the paper's major arguments. While the paper focuses on ICTs and policy making in the United States, our critique of the outpacing argument and our exploration of its complex character are of utility to actors in other political contexts and in other technical fields.
Systematic daytime increases in atmospheric biases linked to dry soils in irrigated areas in Indian operational forecasts
Authors: Barton Emma J. , Taylor C. M. , Mitra A. K. , Jayakumar A.
Published: May 2023

The representation of land–atmosphere coupling in forecast models can significantly impact weather prediction. A previous case study in Northern India incorporating both model and observational data identified atmospheric biases in a high‐resolution forecast linked to soil moisture that impacted the representation of the monsoon trough, an important driver of regional rainfall. The aim of the current work is to understand whether this behavior is present in operational forecasts run by the India National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF). We utilize satellite observations and reanalysis to evaluate model fields in June, July, August, and September forecasts from 2020. Our analysis reveals systematic rapid growth in warm boundary layer biases during the daytime over North West India, which weaken overnight, consistent with excessive daytime surface sensible heat flux. The cumulative effect of these biases produces temperatures more than 4K warmer in 60‐h forecasts. These effects are enhanced by dry surface conditions. The biases impact circulation in the forecasts, which have implications for regional rainfall. The spatial distribution of warm biases in the Indo‐Gangetic Plain is remarkably consistent with the location of areas equipped for irrigation, a process that is not explicitly represented in the model. Our results provide compelling evidence that the development of an irrigation scheme within the model is needed to address the substantial forecast biases that we document.
Integrated metabolomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to reveal the mechanisms of Isodon excisoides against drug‐induced liver injury
Authors: Jia Xinming , Sun Shilin , Yang Mengxin , Zhang Qian , Wang Nan , Jin Yiran , Du Yingfeng
Published: May 2023

Isodon excisoides (Y.Z.Sun ex C.H.Hu) H. Hara has been often used to treat liver diseases in folk medicine. However, the potential hepatoprotective mechanism of I. excisoides remains unclear. In this study, the mechanism of I. excisoides in alleviating drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) was explored using a strategy combining metabolomics with network pharmacology for the first time. First, serum metabolomics was applied to identify differential metabolites and enrich metabolic pathways. The potential targets of I. excisoides for the treatment of DILI were investigated by network pharmacology. Subsequently, a comprehensive network of network pharmacology and metabolomics was established to find the key genes. Finally, molecular docking technology was used to further verify the key targets. As a result, four key genes including TYMS, IMPDH2, DHODH, and ASAH1 were identified. The proteins produced by these genes had high affinity with the corresponding diterpenoids. These results indicate that the components of I. excisoides play a liver‐protective role by affecting the aforesaid key genes and key proteins. Our results offer a novel strategy for determining the pharmacological effects and potential targets of natural compounds.
Scrotal cavernous hemangioma presented with pruritus in a teenager: A case report
Authors: Dejman Behnam , Makarem Alireza , Ahmed Faisal , Askarpour Mohammadreza
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

Ulcerated scrotal cavernous hemangioma is uncommon and rarely presents with pruritus. The surgeon should perform a complete scrotal examination, choose the best treatment option, and the diagnosis should be confirmed histopathologically.

Ulcerated scrotal hemangiomas are a rare disease that can pose a diagnostic challenge, particularly if there is simultaneous hemorrhage. We report the case of a 12‐year‐old child with an unusual presentation of scrotal cavernous hemangioma characterized by itching and bleeding. The mass was surgically removed, and the diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically.
Acute heart failure due to coronary subclavian steal syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Nakata Kosuke , Nishigawa Kosaku , Yoshinaga Takashi , Fukui Toshihiro
Published: May 2023

Key clinical message

An axillo‐axillary bypass grafting is useful for coronary subclavian steal syndrome when occlusion of the proximal left subclavian artery.

An 81‐year‐old female who had undergone coronary artery bypass grafting 15 years previously was admitted and diagnosed with coronary subclavian steal syndrome. Preoperative angiography showed backflow from the left anterior descending coronary artery to the left internal thoracic artery and occlusion of the proximal left subclavian artery. Axillo‐axillary bypass grafting was successfully performed.
Bio‐Sourced Zeolite‐Templated Carbons for the Development of Efficient ORR Catalysts
Authors: Oliveira Daniele S. , Aumond Thibaud , Loupias Lola , Santos Leonardo L. , Caldeira Vinícius P. S. , Canaff Christine , Pergher Sibele B. C. , Habrioux Aurélien , Sachse Alexander
Published: May 2023

Bio‐sourced Zeolite‐Templated Carbons (ZTCs) were achieved through the use of glycerol as carbon source. A systematic study of the textural and chemical properties is presented on ZTCs achieved at synthesis temperatures between 300 °C and 800 °C. Textural properties are importantly impacted through increasing synthesis temperature. ZTCs featuring high textural quality were synthesized at temperatures as low as 400 °C. Oxygen content was further found to be importantly impacted by the synthesis temperature. This latter plays a crucial role when materials are functionalized with thiourea, as high oxygen content allows for maximizing the incorporation of N and S in the ZTC. Functionalized bio‐sourced ZTCs allowed for achieving unparalleled ORR activities and hydroxyl selectivities when compared to other functionalized carbon materials such as graphene‐based catalysts.
Explosionsschutz für Wasserstoffverdichter
Authors: Taravilla Lucia
Published: May 2023

Grüner Wasserstoff zum wichtigsten Energieträger werden. Dem spanischen Anbieter von Hochdrucktechnik, der bislang vor allem die Lebensmittelindustrie belieferte, entwickelte mit Unterstützung durch R. Stahl eine umfassende, Ex‐geschützte Wasserstoff‐Kompressorstation für das spanische Nationale Wasserstoffzentrum CNH2.
Am Energiesparrad drehen
Authors: Gandert Etwina
Published: May 2023

Im Gespräch mit CITplus schildert Gregor Dietz, Marktmanager Motoren SEW‐Eurodrive, die technischen Entwicklungen und gibt einen Einblick in die aktuelle Diskussion rund um das Thema ökodesign‐Richtlinie und Regularien.
Energieeffizient nach Klasse IE5+
Authors: Teumer Nicki
Published: May 2023

Die für Anwendungen in der Pharma‐ oder Lebensmittelindustrie geeigneten Pumpen der Ecodos‐Serie von Lewa arbeiten jetzt noch energieeffizienter nach IE5+ und sind mit einer neuen Form der Weitbereichsdrehzahlregelung (WBR) ausstattbar.
NDIR‐Gassensoren für eine sichere Prozessteuerung
Authors: Weise Sebastian , Sparn Christian
Published: May 2023

Das Unternehmen Burkhardt aus Mühlhausen entwickelte kompakte Holzvergaser für Blockheizkraftwerke zur Serienreife. Für die Prozesssteuerung und ‐überwachung setzt der Anlagenbauer NDIR‐Sensoren von Smartgas ein.
Anlagen‐Engineering mit BIM
Authors: Krämer Markus , de Lima Vasconcelos Silvia , Esche Erik , Welscher Wolfgang , Schoele Linus
Published: May 2023

Im Prozessanlagenbau werden bereits zahlreiche Computer‐Aided Engineering‐Werkzeuge eingesetzt. Building Information Modeling (BIM) ermöglicht den digitalen Zugang zu Gebäudedaten. Das Projektvorhaben KEPLER geht einen Schritt weiter und beschäftigt sich mit der Zusammenführung von BIM‐ und R&I‐Modellen bereits in der Phase des Pre‐Engineering verfahrenstechnischer Anlagen unter Nutzung von Mixed‐Reality‐Umgebungen.
“Was Menschen bewegt, die etwas bewegen”
Authors: Oro Saavedra Christine
Published: May 2023

Christine Oro Saavedra ist seit August 2022 Geschäftsführerin der NAMUR. Heute als Head of Industry Network bei Bayer Leverkusen ist sie bereits seit 2015 bei dem Konzern beschäftigt. 2018 übernahm die Ingenieurin in Bergkamen die Leitung der Werkstätten im Bereich Wartung und Instandhaltung, in dem sie sich stark für innovative Konzepte wie Augmented Reality, IOT und Zustandsüberwachung einsetzte.
Fernwartung ja – aber bitte nur sicher
Authors: Oed Richard
Published: May 2023

Maschinen und Anlagen in der Prozessindustrie müssen überwacht und gewartet werden. Fernwartung erleichtert diese Aufgaben, eröffnet jedoch zusätzliche Angriffsflächen. Wie sieht eine gute Sicherheitsarchitektur im Spannungsfeld zwischen Informationstechnik (IT) und operationaler Technik (OT) aus und wie kann sie implementiert und betrieben werden?
Wenn die Pumpenwartung zur Kleinigkeit wird
Authors: Gandert Etwina
Published: May 2023

Um die Instandhaltung so einfach wie möglich zu gestalten, bedarf es einer Wartungsstrategie. Das Care Service Programm ermöglicht den Anwendern der Seepex‐Pumpen, die Arbeiten zu delegieren und damit Kosten und Personal zu sparen sowie Stillstandszeiten zu vermeiden. Die Pumpenexperten liefern alle nötigen Ersatzteile und kümmern sich um die Instandhaltung. Christian Gröber, Manager Customer Care von Seepex erläutert, welche Vorteile das Programm und der digitale Service bietet.
Betrieblicher Brandschutz in der Industrie
Authors: Schaffors Andreas
Published: May 2023

Welche Vorteile hat die Gestellung eines externen Brandschutzbeauftragten und ab wann benötigt ein Industrieunternehmen eine Brandschutzordnung? Diese und weitere Fragen beantwortet Ihnen der langjährige Brandschutzbeauftragte Andreas Schaffors in seinem Gastbeitrag.
Sicherheitskonzept für modulare Anlagen
Authors: Pfeifer Michael , Bockius Birger
Published: May 2023

Um die Effizienz von modularen Anlagen oder Mehrproduktanlagen auf ein neues Level zu heben, hat TüV SüD die bislang manuelle und statische HAZOP‐Methodik zu Interactive HAZOP (iaHAZOP) weiterentwickelt. In einem Pilotprojekt wurde in Kooperation mit der Firma Merck KGaA eine allgemeingültige “ready‐to‐use” Vorgehensweise für Sicherheitsbewertungen von modularen Anlagen ausgearbeitet. Damit wird man den verschärften Marktanforderungen bei gleichem Sicherheitsniveau gerecht.
Den EX‐Bereich sicher beleuchten
Authors: Schulz Rico
Published: May 2023

Beleuchtung vereinbaren? Die Antwort liegt in der Digitalisierung, oder genauer gesagt in der digitalen Anbindung von explosionsgeschützen Leuchten. So lassen sich alle Leuchten individuell steuern, effizienter überprüfen und warten sowie flexibel ohne Umverdrahtung anders konfigurieren.
Smart, simple und sicher
Authors: Klein Yannick
Published: May 2023

Das Mannheimer Familienunternehmen Pepperl+Fuchs bietet mit ihren industriellen Box Thin Clients – sogenannte BTCs – qualitativ hochwertige Thin Clients an, die durch die Firmware “VisuNet RM Shell” einfach und schnell in Produktionsanlagen eingebunden werden können.
Ungenutztes Potenzial heben
Authors: Riffner Josef , Riffner Philipp
Published: May 2023

In vielen Produktionen verrichten Förder‐ und Rühranlagen ihre Arbeit, ohne ihr maximales Potenzial abzuschöpfen. Die Ursache sind häufig werkseitig implementierte Steuerungen, die nicht immer optimal auf die entsprechenden Prozessabläufe ausgerichtet sind. Individualisierte, budgetorientierte Steuerungen, die stets auf die reale Anlagenumgebung abgestimmt sind
Recent Advances in Functionalized Fullerenes in Perovskite Solar Cells†
Authors: Ai Min , Chen Muqing , Yang Shangfeng
Published: May 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Efficient charge transport and defect passivation are essential for high efficiency of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Functionalized fullerenes featuring high electron affinity and mobility as well as small reorganization energy have been extensively applied in PSCs toward facilitated electron transport and passivated trap states, leading to improvements of both device efficiency and stability. Herein, we summarize the recent advances, especially in the last three years, in applications of functionalized fullerenes including fullerene derivatives and endohedral metallofullerenes in PSCs. Their functions in trap state passivation, electron transport promotion, crystalline modulation, water/oxygen erosion inhibition, and so on, are discussed in details. In particular, we emphasize novel functions of fullerenes beyond trap state passivation, as well as the synergy of multifunction of fullerenes in improving PSC device performance and stability. Finally, we present an outlook on designing novel multifunctionalized fullerenes toward highly efficient and stable PSC devices.
Effects of interferential current electrical stimulation (IFCS) on mastication and swallowing function in healthy young adults: A preliminary study
Authors: Iizumi Yoshiki , Ihara Yoshiaki , Koike Joji , Takahashi Koji
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effects of interferential current electrical stimulation (IFCS) on masticatory and swallowing function.

Materials and Methods

Twenty healthy young adults were enrolled. The measurement items were spontaneous swallowing frequency (SSF), voluntary swallowing frequency (VSF), saliva secretion volume (SSV), glucose elution volume (GEV), and velocity of chew (VOC). All participants underwent both IFCS and sham stimulation (without stimulation, sham). Two sets of independent IFCS electrodes were placed on the bilateral neck. The precise location of the upper electrodes was just below the angle of the mandible, while the lower electrodes were placed at the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The intensity of IFCS was determined to be one level below the perceptual threshold that all participants felt discomfort. Statistical analysis was performed using a two‐way repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results

For IFCS, the results of each measurement before and during stimulation were SSF: 1.16 and 1.46, VSF: 8.05 and 8.45, SSV: 5.33 and 5.56 g, GEV: 171.75 and 208.60 mg/dL, and VOC: 87.20 and 95.20, respectively. SSF, GEV, and VOC during stimulation were significantly increased by IFCS (SSF, p = .009; GEV, p = .048; and VOC, p = .007). Following sham stimulation, the results were SSF: 1.24 and 1.34, VSF: 7.75 and 7.90, SSV: 5.65 and 6.04 g, GEV: 176.45 and 187.35 mg/dL, and VOC: 91.35 and 88.25, respectively.

Conclusion

While no significant differences were observed in the sham group, our findings suggest that IFCS of the superior laryngeal nerve may impact not only the swallowing function but also the masticatory function.
Electrical performance of the 3 × 6 × n cobweb cascade resistance network
Authors: Luo Feng‐Hua , Fang Yi , Luo Li‐Jin
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a kind of multi‐stage cobweb resistance network consisting of n single‐stage cobwebs, namely, a 3 × 6 × n cobweb cascade resistance network (CCRN), was studied. To calculate the equivalent resistance of such a large‐scale complex network, we used a modified recursion‐transform (MRT) method. Firstly, the resistance network to be solved was simplified to a simple equivalent network. Thereafter, the recursive relation of the equivalent network was established according to the basic law of circuit. Then, the nonlinear recursive relation was transformed into the linear recursive relation by variable transformation technique. Finally, the equivalent resistance was gained by resolving the linear recursive relation. By this method, we obtained the exact analytical expression of the equivalent resistance of the 3 × 6 × n CCRN. The computation results show that the 3 × 6 × n CCRN's equivalent resistance is decided by the number of circuit stages n, and as n goes to infinity, these equivalent resistances all tend to a definite limit value.
Primary user supported routing protocol for cognitive radio ad hoc networks in search of higher throughput
Authors: Dutta Nitul , Sarma Hiren Kumar Deva
Published: May 2023

A routing protocol for cognitive radio ad hoc networks (CRAHNs), namely, primary user supported routing (PSR) is demonstrated in this research. Unlike existing routing protocols for CRAHN, where routing of cognitive users (CUs) is accomplished within CUs, in this proposed protocol, some of the primary users (PUs) support CUs to communicate, by forwarding CU packets. This service provided by PU is of voluntary nature. However, such assistance shall be provided by the PUs, only when they are idle, thereby, preserving the principles of cognitive radio networks (CRNs), which indicates that the operation of PU should not be disturbed by the CU activities. The proposed work is compared with cognitive ad hoc on‐demand distance vector (CAODV) protocol. The performance parameters considered are routing overhead, rate of loss of packets, and e2e packet delay. PSR outperforms CAODV in all these performance parameters. There has been on average 26.25% improvement in routing overhead, 34.12% decrease in loss, and 27.01% improvement in e2e delivery in the proposed PSR.
Time series cluster analysis reveals individual assignment of microbiota in captive tiger (Panthera tigris) and wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)
Authors: Zoelzer Franziska , Schneider Sebastian , Dierkes Paul Wilhelm
Published: May 2023

Fecal microbiota variability and individuality are well studied in humans and also in farm animals (related to diet‐ or disease‐specific influences), but very little is known for exotic zoo‐housed animals. This includes a wide range of species that differ greatly in microbiota composition and variation. For example, herbivorous species show a very similar and constant fecal microbiota over time, whereas carnivorous species appear to be highly variable in fecal microbial diversity and composition. Our objective was to determine whether species‐specific and individual‐specific clustering patterns were observed in the fecal microbiota of wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) and tigers (Panthera tigris). We collected 95 fecal samples of 11 animal individuals that were each sampled over eight consecutive days and analyzed those with Illumina MiSeq sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16SrRNA gene. In order to identify species or individual clusters, we applied two different agglomerative hierarchical clustering algorithms – a community detection algorithm and Ward's linkage. Our results showed that both, species‐specific and individual‐specific clustering is possible, but more reliable results were achieved when applying dynamic time warping which finds the optimal alignment between different time series. Furthermore, the bacterial families that distinguish individuals from each other in both species included daily occurring core bacteria (e.g., Acidaminococcaceae in wildebeests or Clostridiaceae in tigers) as well as individual dependent and more fluctuating bacterial families. Our results suggest that while it is necessary to consider multiple consecutive samples per individual, it is then possible to characterize individual abundance patterns in fecal microbiota in both herbivorous and carnivorous species. This would allow establishing individual microbiota profiles of animals housed in zoos, which is a basic prerequisite to quickly detect deviations and use microbiome analysis as a non‐invasive and cost‐effective tool in animal welfare.
Potential role of left atrial strain in estimation of left atrial pressure in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Aga Yaar S. , Abou Kamar Sabrina , Chin Jie Fen , van den Berg Victor. J. , Strachinaru Mihai , Bowen Daniel , Frowijn Rene , Akkerhuis Martijn K. , Constantinescu Alina A. , Umans Victor , Geleijnse Marcel L. , Boersma Eric , Brugts Jasper J. , Kardys Isabella , van Dalen Bas M.
Published: May 2023

Aims

In a large proportion of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients, echocardiographic estimation of left atrial pressure (LAP) is not possible when the ratio of the peak early left ventricular filling velocity over the late filling velocity (E/A ratio) is not available, which may occur due to several potential causes. Left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) is correlated with LV filling pressures and may serve as an alternative parameter in these patients. The aim of this study was to determine whether LASr can be used to estimate LAP in HFrEF patients in whom E/A ratio is not available.

Methods and results

Echocardiograms of chronic HFrEF patients were analysed and LASr was assessed with speckle tracking echocardiography. LAP was estimated using the current ASE/EACVI algorithm. Patients were divided into those in whom LAP could be estimated using this algorithm (LAPe) and into those in whom this was not possible because E/A ratio was not available (LAPne). We assessed the prognostic value of LASr on the primary endpoint (PEP), which comprised the composite of hospitalization for the management of acute or worsened HF, left ventricular assist device implantation, cardiac transplantation, and cardiovascular death, whichever occurred first in time. We studied 153 patients with a mean age of 58 years of whom 76% men and 82% who were in NYHA class I‐II. A total of 86 were in the LAPe group and 67 in the LAPne group. LASr was significantly lower in the LAPne group as compared with the LAPe group (15.8% vs. 23.8%, P < 0.001). PEP‐free survival at a median follow‐up of 2.5 years was 78% in LAPe versus 51% in LAPne patients. An increase in LASr was significantly associated with a reduced risk of the PEP in LAPne patients (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.91 per %, 95% confidence interval 0.84–0.98). An abnormal LASr (<18%) was associated with a five‐fold increase in reaching the PEP.

Conclusions

In HFrEF patients in whom echocardiographic estimation of LAP is not possible due to due to unavailability of E/A ratio, assessing LASr potentially carries added clinical and prognostic value.
Lay theories about collective power in the context of racial oppression
Authors: Twali Michelle Sinayobye , Overstreet Nicole M. , Vollhardt Johanna Ray
Published: May 2023

Social psychological research has generally assumed that oppressed groups are powerless because they often have less control over resources and outcomes and power is usually defined as dominance or influence and control. We juxtapose this theoretical assumption with lay beliefs about the ingroup's collective power expressed in semi‐structured interviews among Black Americans (N = 28). Thematic analysis revealed that participants’ beliefs about ingroup power varied: whereas some participants perceived that the ingroup lacked power, others believed that the ingroup did have power, or the potential to gain it. These beliefs were based on distinct lay theories about collective power, conceptualized at different levels of analysis: the intragroup level (power as community resilience, enhancing ingroup solidarity), intergroup level (power as resistance against oppression, building coalitions between groups) and structural level (power as relative control over resources). We discuss the theoretical and methodological contributions and implications for research on collective power.
Moral judgment under uncertainty: A CNI model analysis
Authors: Ng Nyx L. , Luke Dillon M. , Gawronski Bertram
Published: May 2023

Past research suggests that uncertainty reduces our preference for utilitarian over deontological responses in moral dilemmas. The objective of the current research was to disentangle the possible mechanisms through which uncertainty shapes moral‐dilemma responses. Using the CNI model of moral decision‐making, we examined if uncertainty influences moral‐dilemma responses via sensitivity to consequences, sensitivity to moral norms, or general action tendencies. Across four preregistered experiments (N = 1400), sensitivity to consequences was lower when the outcomes in moral dilemmas were uncertain than when they were certain. This effect emerged regardless of whether participants were asked to judge if they would perform the described actions or if they deem the described actions acceptable. The results are consistent with accounts suggesting that uncertain outcomes influence responses in moral dilemmas through discounting of cost‐benefit ratios. Implications for public policy and moral decisions in real‐world contexts are discussed.
Development of a selective graphene quantum dots based electrochemical sensor for the determination of estrone in different water matrices and synthetic urine
Authors: dos Santos José Felipe , de Oliveira S. Silva Jonatas , Macedo José Fernando , Júnior José Carlos S. , Almeida Wandson S. , Midori Sussuchi Eliana
Published: May 2023

Estrone (E1) is associated with various health and environmental issues, necessitating the development of analytical methods for monitoring E1 in different matrices. In this context, the present study reports the development of a graphene quantum dot‐based electrode (GQD/E) to detect estrone in water and urine samples. Voltammetric measurements under optimized conditions demonstrated the feasibility of using GQD/E to detect estrone at trace levels in aqueous samples. Two linear dynamic ranges were obtained at concentrations from 0.05 to 10.00 μmol L−1, with limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of 28.0 and 96.0 nmol L−1, respectively. Furthermore, the LOD value obtained in this study is one of the lowest ever reported in the literature for the electrochemical determination of E1. The method response showed no significant variation in the current intensity of E1 in the presence of the 16 interferents. The recovery values obtained by using GQD/E to quantify estrone in fortified samples of seawater, tap water, wastewater and synthetic urine ranged from 95.9 to 108.1 %, indicating that the method presents highly sensitive for detecting estrone in aqueous matrices.
Cross‐project defect prediction method based on genetic algorithm feature selection
Authors: Hu Zhixi , Zhu Yi
Published: May 2023

With the continuous development of Internet technology, the role of software in life is increasing, and software defect prediction (SDP) is a key means to ensure software reliability. SDP is to predict the modules that may have defects in advance based on the historical data of software projects, and its purpose is to maximize the use of testing resources. However, in the actual development process, the project that needs to be predicted is often a new project for which there is little or no historical data. Therefore, how to use the massive data of other related projects to build a cross‐project software defect prediction (CPDP) model has received extensive attention from scholars. However, due to the differences in data distribution and class imbalance between different projects, the performance of CPDP is greatly affected. Therefore, on the basis of CPDP, this article proposes a feature selection method based on genetic algorithm (genetic algorithm feature selection, GAFS). GAFS mainly includes two stages: feature selection and ensemble training. In the feature selection stage, this article proposes a global search adaptive feature selection method based on genetic algorithm, which uses the integrated training results of candidate feature subsets on target data to migrate the optimal feature subset. In the ensemble training phase, the EasyEnsemble method is used to alleviate the class imbalance problem, multiple naive Bayesian classifiers are constructed, and then the final model is constructed through ensemble learning. In this article, F1‐score and MCC are used as the test indicator, and comparative experiments are carried out on AEEEM and Promise. The results show that compared with the five comparison methods, GAFS can improve the average F1‐score and MCC much more. For example, GAFS can improve the average F1‐score value by 38.9%, 31.6%, 35.1%, 22.0%, and 31.6%, respectively. In most cases, it can effectively improve the performance of the model and achieve better prediction results.
Numerical investigation of enhanced mass transfer flow field on performance improvement of high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell
Authors: Cai Lang , Zhang Jun , Zhang Caizhi , Zhou Jiaming , Zeng Tao , Yi Fengyan , Hu Donghai , Zhang Xiaosong
Published: May 2023

The enhanced mass transfer flow fields have been proven to be an effective measure to improve the cell performance of low‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells, yet little research has been done for high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFC). In this work, three types of cathode‐enhanced mass transfer flow fields (tapered, staggered‐blocked, and blocked) are designed. The effects of various flow fields on the reactant delivery, current density distribution uniformity, and net power output of HT‐PEMFC are quantitatively investigated and compared. It is found that the three enhanced mass transfer flow fields can effectively increase the performance of HT‐PEMFC by transforming the traditional diffusion into a combination of diffusion and forced convection. In the sight of the superior performance and lower flow resistance, the tapered flow field is thought to be the optimal candidate for HT‐PEMFC among the four flow fields, with a 12.21% net power increment and 5.32% current density distribution uniformity improvement at 1.4 A/cm2 compared to the conventional flow field. These results support further performance enhancements and applications of HT‐PEMFC.
Effective direct chemical looping coal combustion using bimetallic Ti‐supported Fe2O3‐MnO2 oxygen carriers
Authors: Ksepko Ewelina , Lysowski Rafal
Published: May 2023

In this paper five bimetallic Fe2O3‐MnO2 oxygen carriers supported on TiO2 were evaluated for direct hard coal combustion via chemical looping path. The oxygen carriers were obtained via mechanical mixing and high‐temperature calcination. The samples contained varying amounts of Fe2O3 (20–50 wt.%) and MnO2 (65–30 wt.%) but an identical amount of inert material (15 wt.%). Both the impact of the oxygen carrier's composition and the process temperature on their reactivity with the selected hard coal were evaluated. The amount of manganese in the oxygen carriers correlated positively with their reactivity toward the fuel. It was concluded that after eight reaction cycles the oxygen carriers remained resilient for side reactions with the ash residue. Thus, the physicochemical stability of the presented oxygen carriers was proved. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Home‐based self‐sampling vs clinician sampling for anal precancer screening: The Prevent Anal Cancer Self‐Swab Study
Authors: Nyitray Alan G. , Nitkowski Jenna , McAuliffe Timothy L. , Brzezinski Bridgett , Swartz Michael D. , Fernandez María E. , Deshmukh Ashish A. , Ridolfi Timothy J. , Lundeen Sarah J. , Cockerham Leslie , Wenten Dave , Petroll Andrew , Hilgeman Brian , Smith Jennifer S. , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Giuliano Anna R. , Schick Vanessa ,   The Prevent Anal Cancer Self‐Swab Study Team
Published: May 2023

Sexual minority men are at increased risk for anal squamous cell carcinoma. Our objective was to compare screening engagement among individuals randomized to self‐collect an anal canal specimen at home or to attend a clinic appointment. Specimen adequacy was then assessed for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping. A randomized trial recruited cisgendered sexual minority men and transgender people in the community and assigned them to use a home‐based self‐collection swabbing kit or attend a clinic‐based swabbing. Swabs were sent for HPV genotyping. The proportions of participants completing screening in each study arm and the adequacy of their specimens for HPV genotyping were assessed. Relative risks were estimated for factors associated with screening. A total of 240 individuals were randomized. Age (median, 46 years) and HIV status (27.1% living with HIV) did not differ by study arm. A total of 89.2% and 74.2% of home‐arm and clinic‐arm individuals returned the swab, respectively (P = .003), difference between groups, 15.0% (95% CI 5.4%‐24.6%). Among black individuals, 96.2% and 63.2% in the home and clinic arms screened (P = .006). Among individuals with HIV, 89.5% and 51.9% in the home and clinic arms screened (P < .001). Self‐collected swabs and clinician‐collected swabs were comparable in adequacy for HPV genotyping (96.3% and 93.3%, respectively). People at highest risk for anal cancer may be more likely to screen if they are able to self‐collect swabs at home rather than attend a clinic.
A parametric analysis of procedural fidelity errors following mastery of a task: A translational study
Authors: Falakfarsa Galan , Brand Denys , Bensemann Joshua , Jones Lea , Miguel Caio F. , Heinicke Megan R. , Mason Makenna A.
Published: May 2023

Procedural fidelity is defined as the extent to which the independent variable is implemented as prescribed. Research using computerized tasks has shown that fidelity errors involving consequences for behavior can hinder skill acquisition. However, studies examining the effects of these errors once skills have been mastered are lacking. Thus, this translational study investigated the effects of varying levels of fidelity following mastery of a computerized arbitrary matching‐to‐sample task. A group design (consisting of five groups) was used in which college students initially completed 250 trials during which no programmed errors (i.e., perfect fidelity) were arranged, followed by an additional 250 trials with consequences delivered across various levels of fidelity (i.e., 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% of trials administered without errors). The results showed that participants assigned to higher fidelity conditions performed better (on average). These results extended the findings of previous studies by demonstrating how errors involving consequences affect behavior across various stages of learning.
The slowdown of new infections by human retroviruses has reached a plateau in Spain
Authors: de Mendoza Carmen , Carrizo Paula , Sauleda Silvia , Richart Alberto , Rando Ariadna , Miró Elisenda , Benito Rafael , Ayerdi Oscar , Encinas Begoña , Aguilera Antonio , Reina Gabriel , Rojo Silvia , González Rocío , Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , Liendo Paloma , Montiel Natalia , Roc Lourdes , Treviño Ana , Pozuelo María José , Soriano Vicente ,   The HTLV Spanish Network
Published: May 2023

The 2022 annual meeting of the HTLV & HIV‐2 Spanish Network was held in Madrid on December 14. We summarize here the main information presented and discussed at the workshop and review time trends for human retroviral infections in Spain. As transmissible agents, infections by human retroviruses are of obligatory declaration. Until the end of 2022, the Spanish national registry had recorded 451 cases of HTLV‐1, 821 of HTLV‐2, and 416 of HIV‐2. For HIV‐1, estimates are of 150 000 people currently living with HIV‐1 and 60 000 cumulative deaths due to AIDS. During year 2022, new diagnoses in Spain were of 22 for HTLV‐1, 6 for HTLV‐2, and 7 for HIV‐2. The last updated figures for HIV‐1 are from 2021 and counted 2786 new diagnoses. The slowdown in yearly infections for HIV‐1 in Spain points out that new strategies are needed to achieve the United Nations 95‐95‐95 targets by 2025. For the remaining neglected human retroviral infections, their control might be pushed throughout four interventions: (1) expanding testing; (2) improving education and interventions aimed to reduce risk behaviors; (3) facilitating access to antiretrovirals as treatment and prevention, including further development of long‐acting formulations; and (4) increasing vaccine research efforts. Spain is a 47 million population country in South Europe with strong migration flows from HTLV‐1 endemic regions in Latin America and Sub‐Saharan Africa. At this time universal HTLV screening has been implemented only in the transplantation setting, following the report of 5 cases of HTLV‐associated myelopathy shortly after transplantation of organs from HTLV‐1 positive donors. There are four target populations for expanding testing and unveiling asymptomatic carriers responsible for silent HTLV‐1 transmissions: (1) migrants; (2) individuals with sexually transmitted infections; (3) pregnant women; and (4) blood donors.
The efficacy of detecting arrhythmia is higher with 7‐day continuous electrocardiographic patch monitoring than with 24‐h Holter monitoring
Authors: Kim Ju Young , Oh Il‐Young , Lee Hyejin , Lee Ji Hyun , Cho Youngjin , Gil Yeongjoon , Jung Sunghoon , Kim Dae In , Shin Myung Geun , Yoo Joo Yeon , Kwak Jeong Yeon
Published: May 2023

Background

Detecting high‐risk arrhythmia is important in diagnosing patients with palpitations. We compared the diagnostic accuracies of 7‐day patch‐type electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring and 24‐h Holter monitoring for detecting significant arrhythmias in patients with palpitations.

Methods

This was a single‐center prospective trial with 58 participants who presented with palpitations, chest pain or syncope. Outcomes were defined as the detection of any one of six arrhythmias, including supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter lasting more than 30 s, pauses of more than 3 s, high‐degree atrioventricular block, ventricular tachycardia (VT) >3 beats, or polymorphic VT/ventricular fibrillation. The McNemar test for paired proportions was used to compare arrhythmia detection rates.

Results

The overall arrhythmia detection rate was higher with 7‐day ECG patch monitoring than with 24‐h Holter monitoring (34.5% vs. 19.0%, p = .008). Compared with the use of 24‐h Holter monitors, the use of 7‐day ECG patch monitors was associated with higher detection of SVT (29.3% vs. 13.8%, p = .042). No serious adverse skin reactions were reported among the ECG patch‐monitored participants.

Conclusions

The results suggest that a 7‐day patch‐type continuous ECG monitor is more effective for the detection of supraventricular tachycardia than is a 24‐h Holter monitor. However, the clinical significance of device detected arrhythmia should be consolidated.
Potential role of exogenous melatonin involved in postharvest quality maintenance of Vitis labrusca × vinifera ‘Kyoho’
Authors: Ban Zhaojun , Zhang Shuang , Niu Chenyu , Liu Lingling , Cao Kefeng , Li Li , Wu Zhengbao , Wang Luyin , Chen Cunkun , Zhu Yi
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Melatonin is an endogenous free radical scavenger with antioxidant activity that preserves the commercial value of postharvest fruits and delays fruit senescence. To explore the effect of exogenous melatonin on antioxidants and aroma volatile compounds of grapes (Vitis labrusca × vinifera ‘Kyoho’), the grapes were treated with distilled water (control), 50 μmol L−1 of melatonin (M50), and 100 μmol L−1 of melatonin (M100) for 30 min and were then stored at 4 °C for 25 days.

RESULTS

Exogenous melatonin decreased the rachis browning index, the decay development, the weight loss rate, the berry abscission rate, and the respiration rate, promoted the accumulation of total phenolics and total flavonoids, and delayed the reduction of anthocyanins and total soluble solids. In volatile compounds, the accumulation of esters, aldehydes, and alcohols in grapes was promoted, and the terpenes content was reduced by exogenous melatonin.

CONCLUSION

Exogenous melatonin had potentially positive effects on the postharvest life and quality maintenance of grapes. These findings provide theoretical support for the application of melatonin in grape storage and preservation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Three‐dimensional ultrasonography could be a potential non‐ionizing tool to evaluate vertebral rotation of subjects with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Lee Tin Yan , Yang De , Lai Kelly Ka‐Lee , Castelein Rene M. , Schlosser Tom P. C. , Chu Winnie , Lam Tsz‐Ping , Zheng Yong‐Ping
Published: May 2023

Background

Three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasonography is nonionizing and has been demonstrated to be a reliable tool for scoliosis assessment, including coronal and sagittal curvatures. It shows a great potential for axial vertebral rotation (AVR) evaluation, yet its validity and reliability need to be further demonstrated.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) (coronal Cobb: 26.6 ± 9.1°) received 3D ultrasound scan for twice, 10 were scanned by the same operator, and the other 10 by different operators. EOS Bi‐planar x‐rays and 3D scan were conducted on another 29 patients on the same day. Two experienced 3D ultrasonographic researchers, with different experiences on AVR measurement, evaluated the 3D ultrasonographic AVR of the 29 patients (55 curves; coronal Cobb angle: 26.9 ± 11.3°). The gold standard AVR was determined from the 3D reconstruction of coronal and sagittal EOS radiographs. Intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs), mean absolute difference (MAD), standard error measurements (SEM), and Bland–Altman's bias were reported to evaluate the intra‐operator and inter‐operator/rater reliabilities of 3D ultrasonography. The reliability of 3D ultrasonographic AVR measurements was further validated using inter‐method with that of EOS.

Results

ICCs for intra‐operator and inter‐operator/rater reliability assessment were all greater than 0.95. MAD, SEM, and bias for the 3D ultrasonographic AVRs were no more than 2.2°, 2.0°, and 0.5°, respectively. AVRs between both modalities were strongly correlated (R2 = 0.901) and not significantly different (p = 0.205). Bland–Altman plot also shows that the bias was less than 1°, with no proportional bias between the difference and mean of expected and radiographic Cobb angles.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that 3D ultrasonography is valid and reliable to evaluate AVR in AIS patients. 3D ultrasonography can be a potential tool for screening and following up subjects with AIS and evaluating the effectiveness of nonsurgical treatments.
Soil fungal community is more sensitive than bacterial to mining and reforestation in a tropical rainforest
Authors: Zhang Hui , He Mengfei , Pandey Shree Prakash , Liu Lan , Zhou Shurong
Published: May 2023

Mining is a major threat for tropical rainforests as it induces rapid land degradation. Reforestation of mined areas is important to mitigate degradation and biodiversity losses. Microbial diversity, which serve as a good indicator of environmental perturbations, is crucial for reforestation and ecosystem functioning. Yet, limited information is available on how it is influenced by mining. We investigated the bacterial and fungal taxonomic alpha (richness and abundance) and beta diversities (Bray–Curtis dissimilarities (BCD)), root traits and nutrients among mined, undisturbed, and reforested soils in a tropical rainforest in Hainan Island (China). Soil organic matter (SOM) content was highly associated with bacterial and fungal abundances, fungal species richness, and BCD. Mining‐led vegetation removal largely reduced the SOM, and it decreased bacterial and fungal abundances, fungal species richness, and BCD. After using mined soil to plant multiple fast‐growing tree species, the root traits functioned at the levels of an original secondary forest, and it quickly recovered SOM. This process restored bacterial and fungal abundance, fungal species richness, and BCD to originally undisturbed levels. We further conclude that (i) soil fungal diversity in tropical rainforest is more sensitive to mining and reforestation than bacterial diversity. This could be attributed to largely reduced/increased SOM resulting from loss/gain in vegetation during mining/reforestation, respectively. (ii) Reduced SOM, after mining and removal of vegetation, has profound negative influences on tropical rainforest. (iii) Use of mined soil as a post‐mining substrate along with fast‐growing tree species ensures the recovery of SOM during reforestation, which alleviates the negative impacts of mining on tropical rainforests.
Tribological evaluation of PAO 100 oil‐based lithium greases with chemically functionalized nanoadditives
Authors: Kumar Homender , A. P. Harsha , Rawat Sooraj Singh
Published: May 2023

The lubricating greases employed in this study were formulated with polyalphaolefin (PAO) 100 as the base oil and 12‐lithium hydroxystearate as the thickener. The sol–gel method was used to produce the LaF3 nanoadditives. The oleic acid‐treated LaF3 (i.e., OA‐LaF3) and carboxylic acid‐treated MWCNTs (i.e., COOH‐MWCNTs) were blended in the formulated grease samples and used as nanoadditives. The detailed microstructural and chemical properties of chemically treated nanoadditives were investigated using HR‐TEM, XRD, FTIR and XPS analyses. Using a four‐ball tester, the effect of different concentrations of nanoadditives on the tribo‐performance of greases was investigated. Tribo‐test results revealed the role of nanoadditives in PAO‐based grease lubrication performance. COOH‐MWCNTs and OA‐LaF3 nanoadditives outperformed PAO grease in terms of physicochemical and tribo‐performance for steel‐steel tribo‐pair. The improved tribo‐performance is attributed to the formation of tribo‐film on the contact interfaces via nanoadditives. The development of tribo‐film was confirmed by XPS analysis of worn surfaces.
Has the level of green finance development improved carbon emission performance?—Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Yan Chunxiao , Tan Qi
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the impact of green finance and carbon emission performance, as well as the mechanisms, using data from 30 Chinese provinces for the time frame of 2008–2018. The findings show that (1) the level of green finance development significantly enhances carbon emission performance, where industrial structure, foreign direct investment, and population density are all important control variables affecting carbon emission performance. (2) Energy consumption structure, green industry, and green patented technology are all mediating variables for the level of green finance development to enhance carbon emission performance. Meanwhile, the effects of green finance development on carbon emission performance are nonlinear under varying economic growth, industrial structure, and urbanization levels. (3) After addressing the spatial autocorrelation of carbon emission performance, the level of green finance development still significantly enhances carbon emission performance. (4) The level of green finance development in China's eastern provinces, pilot provinces of carbon emission trading, and provinces with abundant coal resources can more significantly enhance carbon emission performance. On this basis, this paper makes specific suggestions for green finance to enhance carbon emission performance.