bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using deep learning to model the biological dose prediction on bulky lung cancer patients of partial stereotactic ablation radiotherapy
Authors: Li Yue , He Kanghui , Ma Mingwei , Qi Xin , Bai Yun , Liu Siwei , Gao Yan , Lyu Feng , Jia Chenghao , Zhao Bo , Gao Xianshu
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To develop a biological dose prediction model considering tissue bio‐reactions in addition to patient anatomy for achieving a more comprehensive evaluation of tumor control and promoting the automatic planning of bulky lung cancer.

Methods

A database containing images and partial stereotactic ablation boost radiotherapy (P‐SABR) plans of 94 bulky lung cancer patients was studied. Patient‐specific parameters of gross tumor boost volume (GTVb), planning gross target volume (PGTV), and identified organs at risk (OARs) were extracted via Numpy and simple ITK. The original dose and structure maps for P‐SABR patients were resampled to have a voxel resolution of 3.9 × 3.9 × 3 mm3. Biological equivalent dose (BED) distributions were reprogrammed based on physical dose volumes. A developed deep learning architecture, Nestnet, was adopted as the training framework. We utilized two approaches for data organization to correlate the structures and BED: (a) BED programming before training model (B‐Nestnet); (b) BED programming after the training process (D‐B Nestnet). The early‐stop mechanism was adopted on the validation set to avoid overfitting. The evaluation criteria of predictive accuracy contain the minimum BED of GTVb and PGTV, the maximum and the mean BED of all targets, BED‐volume metrics. For comparison, we also used the original Unet for BED prediction. The absolute differences were statistically analyzed with the paired‐samples t test.

Results

The statistical outcomes demonstrate that D‐B Nestnet model predicts biological dose distributions accurately. The average absolute biases of [max, mean] BED for GTVb, PGTV are [2.1%, 3.3%] and [2.1%, 4.7%], respectively. Averaging across most of OARs, the D‐B Nestnet model is capable of predicting the errors of the max and mean BED within 6.3% and 6.1%, respectively. While the compared models performed worse with averaged max and mean BED prediction errors surpassing 10% on some specific OARs.

Conclusions

The study developed a D‐B Nestnet model capable of predicting BED distribution accurately for bulky lung cancer patients in P‐SABR. The predicted BED map enables a quick intuitive evaluation of tumor ablation, modification of the ablation range to improve BED of tumor targets, and quality assessment. It represents a major step forward toward automated P‐SABR planning on bulky lung cancer in real clinical practice.
Potential of contrast agents based on high‐Z elements for contrast‐enhanced photon‐counting computed tomography
Authors: Amato Carlo , Klein Laura , Wehrse Eckhard , Rotkopf Lukas T. , Sawall Stefan , Maier Joscha , Ziener Christian H. , Schlemmer Heinz‐Peter , Kachelrieß Marc
Published: October 2020

Purpose

In clinics, only iodine‐ and barium‐based contrast agents are currently used for contrast‐enhanced x‐ray computed tomography (CT). Recently, the introduction of new photon‐counting (PC) detectors increased the interest in developing new contrast agents based on heavier elements. These elements may provide more contrast and spectral information compared to iodine and barium thanks to their k‐edges at higher energies. In this paper, the potential of high‐Z elements in contrast‐enhanced CT was evaluated for different patient sizes and x‐ray spectra using a PC detector.

Methods

An adult liver phantom with five high‐Z element solutions (iodine, gadolinium, ytterbium, tungsten, and bismuth) was scanned with a whole‐body photon‐counting computed tomography (PCCT) prototype. For each element, the contrast‐to‐noise ratio at unit concentration and at unit dose (CNRCD) was evaluated in low threshold images () as function of the tube voltage (80, 100, 120, and 140 kV) and in bin images (tube voltage = 120 kV) as function of the higher threshold ( and ). Simulations were performed for validation with measurements and to investigate more elements (cerium and gold), different patient sizes (infant, adult, and obese), and spectrum filtration (with and without 0.4‐mm tin filter). The dose reductions associated with the CNRCD improvements over iodine were quantified as well.

Results

CNRCD improvements and dose reductions depend on the investigated scenario. For the infant phantom, dose reductions around 30% were reached using cerium or gadolinium in combination with the tin filter. For the adult and obese phantom, reductions around 50% were provided by gadolinium or ytterbium in combination with the tin filter. Independently of the high‐Z element, the CNRCD of two optimally combined bin images was higher than the CNRCD of the low threshold image. Good agreement was found between measurements and simulations.

Conclusions

Between the investigated elements, gadolinium resulted to have the highest potential as novel contrast agent in PCCT, providing significant dose reductions for all patient sizes. Compared to the other elements, the implementation of gadolinium as CT contrast agent may be facilitated since it is already deployed as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging.
The Influence of Aggregate Sociodemographic Characteristics on Fishing License Sales in Cook County, Illinois
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Landon Adam C. , Miller Craig A.
Published: October 2020

Anglers have been among the major supporters of aquatic conservation activities in the USA through the Dingell–Johnson Act and other programs. Declining rates of participation in fishing have spurred significant efforts to recruit, retain, and reengage anglers, also known as “R3.” To make R3 strategies more effective, it is important to explore the broader sociodemographic patterns that underpin angling participation. Urban areas are variable with respect to residents’ socioeconomic status (SES), and scholars have observed lower rates of angling participation among urban residents. This heterogeneity highlights the need to understand angling participation among urban residents. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the influence of aggregate sociodemographic characteristics on fishing license sales in Cook County, Illinois, the main urban center of the state. We assessed the spatial association of sociodemographic characteristics and fishing license purchase and determined the relative influence of three components (SES, household mobility, and age) from principal components analysis on fishing license purchases. We used the bivariate LISA (local indicators of spatial association) method and regression models to test for differences in demographic effect. Results revealed statistically significant spatial dependence in patterns of license sales density and aggregate SES, household mobility, and age. Aggregate SES had a negative relationship with license sales density. Conversely, aggregate household mobility and age positively influenced the density of license sales. Interactions of the three components were also investigated. Census tracts with lower mobility tended to fish more with higher SES. Census tracts with a younger population tended to fish more with higher SES. Census tracts with higher SES tended to fish less with increasing age. Our findings provide assistance in developing R3 strategies aimed at increasing participation in recreational angling by showing how demographic factors influencing license sales can be examined using census data.
A cross‐sectional survey to explore the prevalence and causes of occupational burnout syndrome among perioperative nurses in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almodibeg Bader Ali , Smith Hazel
Published: October 2020

Aim

To detect the level of burnout and its most significant causes among perioperative nurses.

Design

A descriptive quantitative cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods

Data on burnout and its most significant causes were collected by surveying 39 perioperative nurses in a regional hospital in Saudi Arabia using the Maslach Burnout Inventory and a self‐developed questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to perform statistical analysis.

Results

Burnout was detected in 5% of respondents. A high level of emotional exhaustion was detected in 87.2%. Similarly, a high level of depersonalization was detected in 56.4%, while 15.4% of nurses showed a low sense of personal accomplishment. Several factors were identified as the causes of burnout such as high workload, staff shortage, poor teamwork, insufficient salary and occupational hazards. However, lack of departmental support and undesirable supervision in the workplace seem to be the main causes of burnout.
Nurse‐led group information for patients with breast cancer: Equal to individual information? A comparative study
Authors: Dieperink Karin Brochstedt , Ellegaard Elisabeth , Astrup Anja Langkjær , Hasse Henriette Tind , Elnegaard Caroline Matilde , Jensen Jeanette Dupont
Published: October 2020

Aim

To investigate outpatients with breast cancer perception of information before and after changed informational practice.

Design

The design was a comparative study.

Method

Information about breast cancer treatment and chemotherapy toxicity changed from individual to nurse‐led group information. Women with early‐stage breast cancer were eligible. To evaluate individual versus group information, the patients completed a questionnaire at their third cycle of chemotherapy, including Knowledge of treatment, Support from healthcare professionals or peers and general self‐efficacy Ability to act in everyday life. The study is registered in OSF https://osf.io/bh7wg.

Results

In total, 90 participants in two groups were included: (a) individual information (N = 44) and (b) group information (N = 46). Groups were comparable in age and educational level. Both groups found the information satisfactory, with no significant differences regarding perceived knowledge or support. Five of ten questions in self‐efficacy showed significantly better outcomes in patients receiving group information but with no difference in overall self‐efficacy. Group information was non‐inferior compared with individual information. Patients were satisfied in both groups.
Cost‐Effectiveness of a Novel Sleep Intervention in Infancy to Prevent Overweight in Childhood
Authors: Tan Eng Joo , Taylor Rachael W. , Taylor Barry J. , Brown Vicki , Hayes Alison J.
Published: October 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine, from a health funder perspective, whether a sleep intervention, delivered in infancy, either alone or in combination with food, activity, and breastfeeding advice was cost‐effective compared with usual care.

Methods

A cost‐effectiveness analysis was conducted alongside the Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI) randomized controlled trial for outcomes at 5 years and cost‐effectiveness was modeled to age 15 years using the Early Prevention of Obesity in Childhood microsimulation model. Intervention costs for the Sleep (n = 192), Combination (n = 196), and control (n = 209) groups were determined in 2018 Australian dollars. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were determined for BMI outcomes at 5 and 15 years, with the primary outcome being quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) modeled over 15 years.

Results

The average costs of the Sleep and Combination interventions were $184 and $601 per child, respectively. The ICER for the Sleep intervention was $18,125 per QALY gained, with a 74% probability of being cost‐effective at a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $50,000 per QALY. The ICER for the Combination intervention was $94,667 per QALY gained with a 23% probability of being cost‐effective.

Conclusions

The POI Sleep intervention, without additional advice, was a low‐cost and cost‐effective approach to reducing childhood obesity. Sleep modification programs offer a very promising approach to obesity prevention in children.
The effect of dispersion condition on the structure and properties of polystyrene/graphene oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Mohammadsalih Zaid G. , Inkson Beverley J. , Chen Biqiong
Published: October 2020

The realization of an optimum strategy for dispersing graphene nano‐sheets in a thermoplastic matrix is important for obtaining a successful preparation and, consequently, a better enhancement of different properties for the resultant polymer/graphene nanocomposites. In this study, nanocomposites of polystyrene (PS) and graphene oxide (GO) were prepared using solution blending method with tetrahydrofuran as the solvent. Magnetic stirring, water bath sonication, and shear mixing were utilized to disperse GO nano‐sheets in PS. Different periods of mixing for the last two techniques were examined to study their effect on the structure and properties on the PS/GO nanocomposites. For the first sample, water bath sonication and shear mixing were used for 30 and 60 minutes, respectively. For the second sample, both mixing periods were doubled. The results obtained by employing different characterization techniques showed a good dispersion of nano‐sheets in the matrix and enhanced thermal and thermomechanical properties for both samples, with a superiority for the first sample in terms of storage modulus to prevent the nano‐sheets from damage due to the application of sonication and mixing for a shorter period of time.
Flame retardancy and thermal stability of agricultural residue fiber‐reinforced polylactic acid: A Review
Authors: Yiga Vianney Andrew , Lubwama Michael , Pagel Sinja , Benz Johannes , Olupot Peter Wilberforce , Bonten Christian
Published: October 2020

Biocomposites containing natural fibers and biopolymers are an ideal choice for developing substantially biodegradable materials for different applications. Polylactic acid is a biopolymer produced from renewable resources and has drawn numerous interest in packaging, electrical, and automotive application in recent years. However, its potential application in both electrical and automotive industries is limited by its flame retardancy and thermal properties. One way to offset this challenge has been to incorporate natural or synthetic flame retardants in polylactic acid (PLA). The aim of this article is to review the trends in research and development of composites based on agricultural fibers and PLA biopolymers over the past decade. This article highlights recent advances in the fields of flame retardancy and thermal stability of agricultural fiber‐reinforced PLA. Typical fiber‐reinforced PLA processing techniques are mentioned. Over 75% of the studies reported that incorporation of agricultural fibers resulted in enhanced flame retardancy and thermal stability of fiber‐reinforced PLA. These properties are further enhanced with surface modifications on the agricultural fibers prior to use as reinforcement in fiber‐reinforced PLA. From this review it is clear that flame retardancy and thermal stability depends on the type and pretreatment method of the agricultural fibers used in developing fiber‐reinforced PLA. Further research and development is encouraged on the enhancement of the flame retardancy properties of agricultural fiber‐reinforced PLA, especially using agricultural fibers themselves as flame retardants as opposed to synthetic flame retardants that are typically used.
Synthesis of polymeric composites reinforced with short bamboo fibers supported by experiment design
Authors: Cruz‐Riaño Luis Javier , Quintero‐Giraldo Leidy Johana , García‐Guzmán Jaime Alexis , Alcaraz‐Zapata Alejandro , González‐Castrillón Eugenia del Socorro , Osorio‐Saraz Jairo Alexander
Published: October 2020

In this study, short bamboo fibers were obtained using diverse extraction methods. Results obtained by the preliminary fiber traction tests reveal that the fibers obtained using steam explosion equipment possess better mechanical properties than those obtained using other methods. These fibers were used to reinforce a polymeric composite material manufactured using hot compression technique. For this purpose, a 3k factorial experiment design was applied using fiber and coupling agent concentrations as controllable factor and elasticity modulus as response variable to determine their most appropriate level for developing the best natural composite. From this viewpoint, it was found that the best composite material was obtained by combining 50% w/w fiber and 4% w/w coupling agent, as per the corresponding statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). For the response variable, the elasticity modulus of the compound increased by 322% (2.91 GPa) in comparison with that of the polymer matrix (0.69 GPa).
A monoclonal antibody‐based indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to quantify swertiamarin and related compounds in Swertia japonica Makino
Authors: Nuntawong Poomraphie , Horikawa Taiki , Ochi Akihiro , Wada Shinji , Tsuneura Yumi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Seiichi , Morimoto Satoshi
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Swertia japonica Makino (S. japonica) has a long history of use as a folk medicine, and it is one of the three essential Japanese folk medicines. S.japonica has been reported to have various biological activities. The biologically active secoiridoid glycoside swertiamarin (SM) has been isolated from S. japonica. The efficacy of this plant is attributed to SM and related secoiridoid glycosides. To control the quality of S. japonica for medicinal use, a method for the determination of SM and other secoiridoid glycosides in the plant is needed.

Objective

To produce an anti‐SM monoclonal antibody (MAb) and develop an indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA) for S. japonica standardisation and quality control.

Methodology

SM was conjugated to cationised bovine serum albumin (cBSA), and the SM–cBSA conjugate was used to immunise BALB/c mice. Splenocytes from the immunised mice were then fused with SP2/0 myeloma cells to produce hybridoma cells that expressed anti‐SM MAb.

Results

The developed icELISA was sufficiently sensitive and had a quantitative range of 0.78 to 12.5 μg/mL. Coefficients of variation below 10% indicated good repeatability. Recoveries in a spike and recovery assay ranged from 91.84% to 115.50%, which confirmed that the icELISA was accurate. The SM content measured using the icELISA was in agreement with the results of a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) assay.

Conclusion

The icELISA is suitable for the high‐throughput analysis of SM and other secoiridoid glycosides in S. japonica. The method is fast, economical, and reliable for S. japonica quality control.
Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use among pregnant and reproductive‐age women in the United States
Authors: Liu Wei , Menzin Talia J. , Woods Corinne M. , Haug Nicole R. , Li Jie , Mathew Justin A. , Nguyen Christine P. , Chai Grace P. , Moeny David G. , Shinde Mayura
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To assess the prevalence and potential indications of PDE5 inhibitor use among pregnant and reproductive‐age women in the United States.

Methods

We identified women 15 to 50 years with a livebirth from January 2001 through March 2018 in Sentinel Database. We assessed the prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use prior to and during pregnancy by trimester, identified potential on‐ and off‐label indications using predefined diagnosis codes recorded within 90 days before the estimated last menstrual period through delivery. Separately, we used data from IQVIA's National Prescription Audit and Total Patient Tracker to estimate the dispensed prescriptions for PDE5 inhibitors and the number of patients with PDE5 inhibitor prescriptions.

Results

We identified approximately 3.3 million pregnancies during 2001 to 2018, 96 of which had PDE5 inhibitor use during pregnancy. Prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use was 2.61, 0.62, and 0.62 per 100, 000 live‐born pregnancies during the first, second, or third trimesters, respectively. Among women exposed to a PDE5 inhibitor from 90 days before conception to the end of pregnancy, 25.0%, 31.1%, and 15.5% had a diagnosis code for fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. In IQVIA data, an estimated 223, 000 prescriptions from July 2015 through June 2018 and 58, 000 women received prescriptions for PDE5 inhibitors in 2017, of whom approximately 15, 000 (26%) were aged 15 to 50 years.

Conclusion

We found a low prevalence of PDE5 inhibitor use in pregnant and reproductive‐age women. Given the very low prevalence of use and the inconsistency of neonatal mortality data across STRIDER centers, the risk to public health is low at present.
Development and validation of coding algorithms to identify patients with incident lung cancer in United States healthcare claims data
Authors: Beyrer Julie , Nelson David R. , Sheffield Kristin M. , Huang Yu‐Jing , Ellington Tim , Hincapie Ana L.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Our aim was to develop and validate a practical US healthcare claims algorithm for identifying incident lung cancer that improves on positive predictive value (PPV) and sensitivity observed in past studies.

Methods

Patients newly diagnosed with lung cancer in Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) (gold standard) were linked with Medicare claims. A 5% Medicare “other cancer” sample and noncancer sample served as controls. A split‐sample validation approach was used. Rules‐based, regression, and machine learning models for developing algorithms were explored. Algorithms were developed in the model building subset. Rules‐based algorithms and those with the highestFscores were evaluated in the validation subset.Fscores were compared for 1000 bootstrap samples. Misclassification was evaluated by calculating the odds of selection by the algorithm among true positives and true negatives.

Results

A practical single‐score algorithm derived from a logistic regression model had sensitivity = 78.22% and PPV = 78.50% (Fscore: 78.36). The algorithm was most likely to misclassify older patients (ages ≥80 years) or with missing data in the SEER registry, shorter follow‐up time in Medicare (<3 months), insurance through Veterans Affairs, >1 cancer in SEER, or certain Charlson comorbidities (dementia, chronic pulmonary disease, liver disease, or myocardial infarction).

Conclusion

In this dataset, a practical point‐based algorithm for identifying incident lung cancer demonstrated significant and substantial improvement (7.9% and 23.9% absolute improvement in sensitivity and PPV, respectively) compared with a current standard.
Efficient Fine Balancing in Two Planes with Laser Ablation
Authors: Hummelt Guenter
Published: October 2020

The need for precision balancing of high‐speed rotors is continually increasing. This can be attributed to several factors: imbalances generate vibrations, which are a source of noise; the applications must operate quietly; imbalances create additional load on the impeller bearings and therefore shorten their lifetime.
Biocontrol ability and action mechanism of dihydromaltophilin against Colletotrichum fructicola causing anthracnose of pear fruit
Authors: Li Chaohui , Tang Bao , Cao Shulin , Bao Yan , Sun Weibo , Zhao Yancun , Liu Fengquan
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum fructicola is one of the most important diseases in pear fruit, resulting in huge economic losses. Public awareness of protecting the environment and food safety, together with pathogen resistance to many key fungicides have led to an urgent need to develop alternative strategies for controlling fruit diseases. Here, the antifungal activity of a natural product, dihydromaltophilin [heat‐stable antifungal factor (HSAF)], against C. fructicola in vitro and in vivo was investigated to determine its efficacy for anthracnose management.

RESULTS

HSAF exhibited pronounced antifungal activity against in vitro mycelial growth of C. fructicola, with a half‐inhibition concentration of 0.43 mg L−1. Hyphae treated with HSAF showed defects such as hyperbranching, swelling and depolarized growth. Conidia germination in the pathogen was inhibited by HSAF in a dose‐dependent manner. In the presence of 4 mg L−1 HSAF, conidia germination was significantly delayed, and germ tube growth was inhibited. HSAF at 8 mg L−1 completely blocked conidia germination in C. fructicola. In addition, HSAF disrupted coordination of cytokinesis with growth and nuclear division, induced reactive oxygen species production in conidia, and damaged the integrity of the conidia cell wall. Moreover, an in vivo test confirmed that 50 mg L−1 HSAF significantly reduced the development of anthracnose decay in pear fruit caused by C. fructicola.

CONCLUSION

HSAF was highly effective in reducing pear anthracnose caused by C. fructicola and has great potential to become a new type of fruit preservative.
The regional model‐based Mesoscale Ensemble Prediction System, MEPS, at the Japan Meteorological Agency
Authors: Ono Kosuke , Kunii Masaru , Honda Yuki
Published: October 2020

The regional model‐based Mesoscale Ensemble Prediction System (MEPS) has been operational since June 2019 at the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The primary objective of the newly operational MEPS is to provide uncertainty information for JMA's operational regional model, Mesoscale Model (MSM), which provides information to support disaster prevention and aviation safety. This article describes MEPS in detail and discusses issues to be addressed in the future. For effective evaluation of uncertainties in MSM, the forecast model in MEPS is configured in the same way as that in MSM, except for the initial and lateral boundary conditions. Initial perturbations for all 20 ensemble runs are generated by a linear combination of singular vectors (SVs) with three different spatial and temporal resolutions, with the aim of capturing multi‐scale uncertainties in the initial conditions simultaneously. The SVs from a global model are also used as lateral boundary perturbations to ensure consistency between the initial and boundary conditions of each ensemble member. The verification results showed that MEPS achieved the expected performance of an ensemble prediction system: the ensemble mean outperformed the control forecast with a good spread–skill relationship; moreover, the skill scores of probabilistic precipitation forecasts were evaluated as valid for rainfall of up to 30 mm·(3 hr)−1. In an additional experiment conducted without using the two smaller‐scale initial perturbations, the skill was substantially reduced compared with that of the original MEPS, especially for larger precipitation thresholds. Therefore, the smaller‐scale perturbations were essential to capture uncertainties associated with local heavy rainfall events.
Machine learning lattice parameters of monoclinic double perovskites
Authors: Zhang Yun , Xu Xiaojie
Published: October 2020

Monoclinic double perovskites, such as A2B′B″O6, exhibit a wide range of unique electronic, magnetic, and optical properties, depending on the alloying elements, ordering, and lattice distortion. Four lattice constants, a, b, c, and β, can vary due to the ionic radii of alloying elements, which represent the compression, expansion, and tilting of octahedra in the crystal structure. In the current study, we develop the Gaussian process regression model to shed light on relationships between effective ionic radii and lattice constants for monoclinic double perovskites. The model is highly accurate and stable, contributing to fast, low‐cost estimations of lattice constants.
Analysis of crossover designs with nonignorable dropout
Authors: Wang Xi , Chinchilli Vernon M.
Published: October 2020

This article addresses the analysis of crossover designs with nonignorable dropout. We study nonreplicated crossover designs and replicated designs separately. With a primary objective of comparing the treatment mean effects, we jointly model the longitudinal measures and discrete time to dropout. We propose shared‐parameter models and mixed‐effects selection models. We adapt a linear‐mixed effects model as the conditional model for the longitudinal outcomes. We invoke a discrete‐time hazards model with a complementary log‐log link function for the conditional distribution of time to dropout. We apply maximum likelihood for parameter estimation. We perform simulation studies to investigate the robustness of our proposed approaches under various missing data mechanisms. We then apply the approaches to two examples with a continuous outcome and one example with a binary outcome using existing software. We also implement the controlled multiple imputation methods as a sensitivity analysis of the missing data assumption.
Developing a tool for process‐oriented appraisals and rewards: Design science research
Authors: Shafagatova Aygun , Van Looy Amy
Published: October 2020

While business process management (BPM) has become a recognized discipline, managers are still challenged to achieve an appropriate alignment between BPM their BPM needs and other management practices in the organization. Specifically, the aligned behavior and performance of employees and teams are crucial to reap the full benefits of BPM. To help managers face such alignment challenges, we have developed a qualitative decision support tool, called “process‐oriented appraisals and rewards” (POAR), by combining design‐science research with a strong qualitative approach. Our study contributes to the BPM and human resource management (HRM) disciplines by extending multifaceted knowledge, while also offering a practical tool for managers to support their decision making regarding a BPM‐HRM alignment.
Improving the Stability and Optoelectronic Properties of All Inorganic Less‐Pb Perovskites by B‐Site Doping for High‐Performance Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Lei Miao , Liu Jieqiong , He Qingquan , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2020

CsPbX3 (X = I, Br) inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been considered as one of the most appealing research topics in the fields of photovoltaic technologies in the past several years due to their excellent thermal stability and booming conversion efficiency. Nevertheless, there are still a large number of critical challenges and issues for inorganic PSCs, such as unstable phase structure of I‐rich inorganic perovskites at ambient condition, the wide bandgap of Br‐rich inorganic perovskites, and serious defect traps, hindering further development of inorganic PSCs. Recently, partially substituting Pb2+ with other metal ions has been shown to enhance the stability, tune the bandgap, reduce the defects of CsPbX3 inorganic perovskites, and thereby improve the photovoltaic performance of inorganic PSCs. Herein, the recent progress in improving the photovoltaic performance of inorganic PSCs through the B‐site doping strategy is summarized, and the influence of the alternative metal ions on the stability and optoelectronic properties of inorganic perovskites and photovoltaic characteristics of CsPbX3‐based PSCs is discussed. Finally, the issues that need to be understood in more detail are presented. It is believed that B‐site doping offers a practical strategy to gain high‐performance perovskite photovoltaic devices.
Medium Manganese Steel and Mechanism of Austenite Formation during Reversion Annealing
Authors: Martin David , Ryde Lena , Eliasson Johan , Brask Johannes , Hutchinson Bevis
Published: October 2020

Alloy chemistry and process conditions are studied for a steel having a tempered martensite matrix providing an indicated tensile strength of >900 MPa and containing >20% austenite for enhanced ductility and formability. Conditions equivalent to industrial annealing are simulated in laboratory tests. In the initial quenched state, the steel has a martensitic matrix and contains around 2.5% retained austenite which is maintained throughout the subsequent heating stage and then increases significantly in volume during isothermal reversion annealing above the A1 temperature. There is evidence to support the conclusion that this increase in the austenite content takes place by growth of the pre‐existing fragments of retained austenite in the initial martensitic microstructure, rather than by new independent nucleation events.
The Role of Microstructural Constituents on Strength–Ductility–Local Formability of a Transformation‐Induced‐Plasticity‐Aided Bainitic Steel
Authors: Tang Shuai , Lan Huifang , Li Jianping , Liu Zhenyu , Wang Guodong
Published: October 2020

The microstructural evolution for varied austenitizing temperature is investigated in a transformation‐induced‐plasticity (TRIP)‐aided bainitic steel. Special attention is given to the effect of microstructural constituents on mechanical properties and local formabilities (stretch flangeability and bendability). With the decreasing of austenitizing temperature, proeutectoid ferrite is formed due to the refinement of prior austenite grain size, which yields the increased amount of large blocky martensite/austenite (M/A) constituents. The existence of ferrite and the TRIP effect provided by blocky retained austenite contributes to the higher strain hardening rate in the early stage of deformation as well as the more gradual decreasing of the strain hardening rate, leading to higher uniform elongation (UEL) for decreased austenitizing temperature. Whereas, the post uniform elongation (PEL) shows the opposite trend. Both hole expansion ratio (HER) and bending ratio (BR) have a linear relationship with PEL as well as yield ratio (YR). Replacing the multiphase microstructure with uniform bainitic microstructure would increase the balance of strength and local formability, in which the role of PEL is consistent with YR.
Modification of Starches with Different Amylose/Amylopectin Ratios Using the Dual Approach with Hydroxypropylation and Subsequent Acid‐Thinning: II. Impacts on Gelatinization and Solution Properties
Authors: Ulbrich Marco , Flöter Eckhard
Published: October 2020

Starches with different amylose (AM)/amylopectin (AP) ratios (waxy potato: WxPS; regular potato: PS; high AM corn: HACS) are hydroxypropylated (HP, two levels) and subsequently acid‐thinned (AT) to produce dual‐modified samples. The physicochemical characteristics and techno‐functional properties of the solutions are investigated, and the data are evaluated statistically (analysis of variance). Differential scanning calorimetry gelatinization experiments reveal a reduction of the transition temperatures particularly due to HP. The subsequent AT decreases the specific enthalpy significantly. HACS samples have lower solubility (S) compared to their potato‐based counterparts (WxPS and PS), but HP enhances the starch's S. The S of the AP of the HACS samples is comparatively high, and HP particularly facilitates the additional solubilization of AM. Dual‐modified samples show characteristics of S similar to the corresponding HP samples. Or particular note, the HP‐modified WxPS and PS, respectively, tend to cause molecular degradation of the polymers dissolved. The hot paste viscosity is impacted significantly by all varied factors.
Direct access to investigational interventions outside the trial process: ethical reflections on the TOTAL‐trial debate
Authors: Crombag N. , Pizzolato D. , Dierickx K.
Published: October 2020

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on the Opinion by Ville and the Counter Opinion by Deprest.
Safety and efficacy of smart tracheal occlusion device in diaphragmatic hernia lamb model
Authors: Basurto D. , Sananès N. , Bleeser T. , Valenzuela I. , De Leon N. , Joyeux L. , Verbeken E. , Vergote S. , Van der Veeken L. , Russo F. M. , Deprest J.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of the ‘smart’ tracheal occlusion (Smart‐TO) device in fetal lambs with diaphragmatic hernia (DH).

Methods

DH was created in fetal lambs on gestational day 70 (term, 145 days). Fetuses were allocated to either pregnancy continuation until term (DH group) or fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (TO), performed using the Smart‐TO balloon on gestational day 97 (DH + TO group). On gestational day 116, the presence of the balloon was confirmed on ultrasound, then the ewe was walked around a 3.0‐Tesla magnetic resonance scanner for balloon deflation, which was confirmed by ultrasound immediately afterwards. At term, euthanasia was performed and the fetus retrieved. Efficacy of occlusion was assessed by the lung‐to‐body‐weight ratio (LBWR) and lung morphometry. Safety parameters included tracheal side effects assessed by morphometry and balloon location after deflation. The unoccluded DH lambs served as a comparator.

Results

Six fetuses were included in the DH group and seven in the DH + TO group. All balloons deflated successfully and were expelled spontaneously from the airways. In the DH + TO group, in comparison to controls, the LBWR at birth was significantly higher (1.90 (interquartile range (IQR), 1.43–2.55) vs 1.07 (IQR, 0.93–1.46); P = 0.005), while on lung morphometry, the alveolar size was significantly increased (mean linear intercept, 47.5 (IQR, 45.6–48.1) vs 41.9 (IQR, 38.8–46.1) μm; P = 0.03); whereas airway complexity was lower (mean terminal bronchiolar density, 1.56 (IQR, 1.0–1.81) vs 2.23 (IQR, 2.14–2.40) br/mm2; P = 0.005). Tracheal changes on histology were minimal in both groups, but more noticeable in fetal lambs that underwent TO than in unoccluded lambs (tracheal score, 2 (IQR, 1–3) vs 0 (0–1); P = 0.03).

Conclusions

In fetal lambs with DH, TO using the Smart‐TO balloon is effective and safe. Occlusion can be reversed non‐invasively and the deflated intact balloon expelled spontaneously from the fetal upper airways. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Occurrence and characteristics of Escherichia coli mcr‐1‐like in rabbits in Shandong, China
Authors: Wang Xinxing , Zhai Zhenzhen , Zhao Xiaonan , Zhang Hongna , Jiang Hanming , Wang Xuepeng , Wang Hairong , Chang Weishan
Published: October 2020

Polymyxin is regarded as the last retort to fight against multidrug‐resistant (MDR) Enterobacteriaceae. The emergency and spread of polymyxin‐associated resistance gene mcr‐1 evoked great panic of no medicine to cure the bacterial infection in society. mcr‐1 is widespread in domestic and wild animals. Therefore, continuous monitoring of its prevalence and characteristics is required. In this study, we used a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based method to detect the mcr‐1 of Escherichia coli isolated from rabbits of Tai'an, China, and determined the characteristics of mcr‐1‐bearing plasmids. A total of 55 non‐duplicated E. coli was recovered from the swabs of rabbit faeces. Plasmid profiling, plasmid and chromosome PCR, complete genome sequencing, a conjugation experiment, lactose fermentation experiment, multilocus sequence typing and polymyxin resistance tests were performed to determine the characteristics of mcr‐1‐bearing plasmids. 14.6% (8/55) of the specimens were mcr‐1 positive. The mcr‐1‐positive E. coli harboured more drug‐resistant genes compared with the mcr‐1‐negative specimens, and results showed four sequence types. Overall, these findings suggested the possible threat of the transmission of mcr‐1 from rabbits to humans, especially since the gene is located on transferable plasmids making horizontal transfer relatively easy. Since food‐producing animals are necessary for our daily diet, worldwide cooperation is needed in fighting the spread of this drug resistance gene to avoid human infections with MDR pathogenic bacteria.
Horizon radiation reaction forces
Authors: Goldberger Walter D. , Rothstein Ira Z.
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Using Effective Field Theory (EFT) methods, we compute the effects of horizon dissipation on the gravitational interactions of relativistic binary black hole systems. We assume that the dynamics is perturbative, i.e it admits an expansion in powers of Newton’s constant (post-Minkowskian, or PM, approximation). As applications, we compute corrections to the scattering angle in a black hole collision due to dissipative effects to leading PM order, as well as the post-Newtonian (PN) corrections to the equations of motion of binary black holes in non-relativistic orbits, which represents the leading order finite size effect in the equations of motion. The methods developed here are also applicable to the case of more general compact objects, eg. neutron stars, where the magnitude of the dissipative effects depends on non-gravitational physics (e.g, the equation of state for nuclear matter).
Adverse perinatal outcomes among children in Switzerland: the impact of national origin and socio-economic group
Authors: Wanner Philippe
Published: October 2020

Objectives

We examined the effect of the mother’s origin and socio-economic characteristics on adverse perinatal outcomes in Switzerland.

Methods

Births occurring from 2011 to 2017 were identified in the Swiss population register and merged with the Swiss civil register and the Register of the first pillar to obtain information on the migration origin and socio-economic level. Four indicators of adverse perinatal outcomes were defined.

Results

Logistic regressions show that both the migration origin and the socio-economic level are measured by the parents’ income, influence risk. Compared to the children of mothers born in Switzerland, those of mothers from EU/EFTA countries have a lower risk of infant mortality, low birth weight and extreme prematurity. The highest risk is observed for children born to mothers from the rest of the world. High levels of risk consistently characterize children with low-income parents (first decile).

Conclusions

Our results justify further investigations at the level of health services to better identify the factors causing differences in the prevalence of adverse outcomes and to take them into account in adapted health policies.
Insights into modification of lignocellulosic fillers with isophorone diisocyanate: structure, thermal stability and volatile organic compounds emission assessment
Authors: Hejna Aleksander , Marć Mariusz , Skórczewska Katarzyna , Szulc Joanna , Korol Jerzy , Formela Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

This study presents an analysis of the structure and properties of different types of lignocellulosic fillers modified by isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to provide insights into the possibility of their application to the manufacturing of wood polymer composites (WPCs). Moreover, it deals with the environmental aspects of modified fillers, by assessment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during modification, as well as from final products. Three types of commercially available lignocellulosic fillers were modified with different content of IPDI (from 1 to 15 wt%) using the internal mixer. The main compounds detected in the air during modifications were terpenes and terpenoids. No IPDI was detected, which is very beneficial considering its toxicity. On the other hand, IPDI was emitted from modified fillers at a slightly elevated temperature of 40 °C, which was associated with a significant rise in its vapor pressure. Successful modification of fillers was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Performed modifications of lignocellulosic fillers with IPDI had a relatively small impact on their particle size and color properties. Such an effect can be considered beneficial for the mechanical performance and appearance of WPCs, which could be potentially manufactured using IPDI-modified lignocellulosic fillers.
Influence of the beam oscillation pattern and oscillation frequency on the temperature field in laser brazing with keyhole formation
Authors: Henze I. , Woizeschke P.
Published: October 2020

Laser keyhole brazing is an opportunity to increase the process efficiency in laser brazing processes. Using small spot sizes increases the intensity and leads to the formation of a vapour capillary (keyhole) in the brazing material when a material-specific threshold value is exceeded. Due to multiple reflections/absorptions of the laser beam in the keyhole, the process efficiency increases in comparison with conventional brazing processes with single Fresnel absorption on the surface, especially when using high-reflectivity braze materials, such as aluminium-based or copper-based alloys. The energy must be distributed adequately by applying beam oscillation transversal to the brazing direction. In laser brazing processes, the temperature field in the interface between brazing and substrate material is a major factor. To analyse the effect of beam oscillation, it is assumed in this study that the temperature distribution at the surface of the melt pool is a suitable approximation for the temperature distribution at the interface to the substrate. Two key parameters are defined to quantify the temperature field referring to the homogeneity: the temporal local temperature-time curve and the temperature distribution transverse to the brazing direction. While the oscillation frequency influences the first mentioned parameter by decreasing the time interval between the local laser passes, the oscillation pattern affects the second parameter by adjusting the local actual beam velocity and its consistency.
Nonlocal-to-Local Convergence of Cahn–Hilliard Equations: Neumann Boundary Conditions and Viscosity Terms
Authors: Davoli Elisa , Scarpa Luca , Trussardi Lara
Published: October 2020

We consider a class of nonlocal viscous Cahn–Hilliard equations with Neumann boundary conditions for the chemical potential. The double-well potential is allowed to be singular (e.g. of logarithmic type), while the singularity of the convolution kernel does not fall in any available existence theory under Neumann boundary conditions. We prove well-posedness for the nonlocal equation in a suitable variational sense. Secondly, we show that the solutions to the nonlocal equation converge to the corresponding solutions to the local equation, as the convolution kernels approximate a Dirac delta. The asymptotic behaviour is analyzed by means of monotone analysis and Gamma convergence results, both when the limiting local Cahn–Hilliard equation is of viscous type and of pure type.
Changes in mineral composition of six strains of Pleurotus after substrate modifications with different share of nitrogen forms
Authors: Mleczek Mirosław , Gąsecka Monika , Budka Anna , Niedzielski Przemysław , Siwulski Marek , Kalač Pavel , Mleczek Patrycja , Rzymski Piotr
Published: October 2020

The chemical characteristics of substrate are one the most significant factors influencing the growth and development of cultivated mushroom species. The aim of this study was to determine the mineral composition of six Pleurotus species (P. cistidiosus, P. djamor, P. ostreatus, P. ostreatus var. florida, P. pulmonarius and P. sajor-caju) growing on three wheat straw substrates with the addition of agricultural fertilizer rich in ammonium and with addition of salt solution rich in nitrates. Significant differences in the concentration of Al, Ca, Cu, Ir, Ni, Ru, Sn and Te were observed in all substrates used in this experiment. Cultivation on chemically-enriched substrates did not result in changes in yield with the exception of P. sajor-caju, which had a lower yield when grown on ammonium-rich substrate. No macroscopic alterations in fruit bodies were observed for any species regardless of the applied substrate. A higher concentration of selected elements was not correlated with their higher content in particular mushroom species, or such a relationship was present only in selected mushroom species. The efficiency of element accumulation depends on their concentration in the substrate (positive values of rs), although the mushroom species and the nitrogen form concentration may also have a significant impact (negative rs values). The obtained results show that cultivation of different Pleurotus strains on substrates enriched with a different share of ammonium and nitrate may cause changes in their mineral composition in spite of the similarity in the concentration of the majority elements in substrates.