bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choroidal metastasis and bilateral optic nerve involvement as presenting sign of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma: A case report
Authors: Shariati Mehrdad Motamed , Khazaei Sahel
Published: March 2023

A 49‐year‐old male presented with a gradually progressive loss of vision in both eyes. Funduscopic examination revealed bilateral optic disc swelling and two yellowish elevated choroidal lesions in the left eye. Ophthalmic imaging raised suspicion of choroidal metastasis. Adenocarcinoma of the lung was detected in further systemic evaluation.
Cobalt‐Nickel Ultrathin Hexagonal Nanosheets for High‐performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Xuebing , Song Yang , Hu Chaoquan , Shao Mingyuan , Li Chang
Published: March 2023

In this work, uniform ultrathin hexagonal nanosheets of Co−Ni bimetallic hydroxides are synthesized using a simple green hydrothermal synthesis method. By tuning a Co/Ni mole ratio of 1 : 2, a special nanosheet structure of Co0.32Ni0.68(OH)2 was obtained with high interlayer spacing and large pore size. This nanosheet exhibits an enhanced specific capacity as high as 1021.96 C/g at 0.5 A/g, 12 times higher than Co(OH)2 (83.23 C/g). The high electrochemical performance is attributed to the interfacial interaction between Co2+ and Ni2+, as well as its special nanosheet structure. The advantages of the composition and structure are further confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Besides, the energy storage process was visually observed by in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) is assembled by Co0.32Ni0.68(OH)2 and activated carbon electrodes. The ASC delivers a high energy density of 54.97 W h/kg at a power density of 1.68 kW/kg and maintains 33.52 W h/kg at 32.66 kW/kg. These results highlight the promising applications of ultrathin Co0.32Ni0.68(OH)2 nanosheets as a high‐performance electrode material in supercapacitors.
Electronic and Charge Transport Properties in Bridged versus Unbridged Nanohoops: Role of the Nanohoop Size
Authors: Lucas Fabien , Brouillac Clément , McIntosh Nemo , Giannini Samuele , Rault‐Berthelot Joëlle , Lebreton Christophe , Beljonne David , Cornil Jérôme , Jacques Emmanuel , Quinton Cassandre , Poriel Cyril
Published: March 2023

In the field of π‐conjugated nanohoops, the size of the macrocycle has a strong impact on its structural characteristics, which in turn affect its electronic properties. In this work, we report the first experimental investigations linking the size of a nanohoop to its charge transport properties, a key property in organic electronics. We describe the synthesis and study of the first example of a cyclocarbazole possessing five constituting building units, namely [5]‐cyclo‐N‐butyl‐2,7‐carbazole, [5]C‐Bu‐Cbz. By comparison with a shorter analogue, [4]‐cyclo‐N‐butyl‐2,7‐carbazole, [4]C‐Bu‐Cbz, we detail the photophysical, electrochemical, morphological and charge transport properties, highlighting the key role played by the hoop size. In particular, we show that the saturated field effect mobility of [5]C‐Bu‐Cbz is four times higher than that of its smaller analogue [4]C‐Bu‐Cbz (4.22×10−5 vs 1.04×10−5 cm2 V−1 s−1). However, the study of the other organic field‐effect transistor characteristics (threshold voltage VTH and subthreshold slope SS) suggest that a small nanohoop is beneficial for good organization of the molecules in thin films, whereas a large one increases the density of structural defects, and hence of traps for the charge carriers. The present findings are of interest for the further development of nanohoops in electronics.
Development and Use of a Real‐time In‐situ Monitoring Tool for Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: Schroeder Chelsea M. , León Sandoval Arturo , Ohlhorst Kristiane K. , Leadbeater Nicholas E.
Published: March 2023

An apparatus for real‐time in‐situ monitoring of electrochemical advanced oxidation processes using visible spectrophotometry has been developed. Central to the design is a 3D‐printed sleeve that interfaces commercially available electrochemical and spectrophotometry units. Using the anodic oxidation of Acid Orange 7 as a test bed, the apparatus has been used for probing the impact of varying electrode composition, current density, electrolyte concentration, and stirring speed on the rate of decolorization. In addition, the unit was used to prove that decolorization can continue after electrolysis has been stopped, thereby showing the inherent value of real‐time monitoring. Given that a significant challenge in the field of advanced oxidation processes is the inability to compare different reported systems, our approach, using commercially available equipment and a printable interface may open avenues for more standardized data collection.
g‐C3N4 Nanosheet Nanoarchitectonics: H2 Generation and CO2 Reduction
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Yang Ping
Published: March 2023

Few‐layered graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) has been considered a popular base for constructing composite materials in photocatalytic CO2 reduction and H2 generation applications, particularly for constructing g‐C3N4 based composites based on the idea of nanoarchitectonics. The photocatalytic activity of these constructed g‐C3N4 composites relies on the composition, morphology, microstructure of the material. This review aims to focus on the summary of latest progress in the development of few‐layered g‐C3N4 nanosheets based noble metal clusters/nanoparticles and other semiconductor nanomaterials modified composite materials constructed using the technology of nanoarchitectonics for photocatalytic H2 generation and CO2 reduction. This review covers a brief introduction of the enhanced photogenerated carrier separation and transfer as well as extended light absorption of superior thin g‐C3N4 nanosheets based photocatalysts; discussions on the mechanism of g‐C3N4 based photocatalyst involved photocatalytic H2O splitting and CO2 reduction system; the latest progress in the study of nanoarchitectonics of a variety of g‐C3N4 based heterostructures including type II, Z‐scheme, S‐scheme, and Schottky junction. Major challenges on nanoarchitectonics of superior thin g‐C3N4 based heterostructures, as well as the recommendations for future studies of these materials to attain higher efficiency in photocatalytic H2 generation and CO2 reduction, are also concluded.
Copper‐Based MOF Crystals for Low‐k Dielectric Applications
Authors: Vineetha V. S. , Pradyumnan P.P.
Published: March 2023

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are precious resources for future demands in every realm of life. Currently, researchers are striving to create MOF materials with low dielectric constants for the microelectronic sector. In this work, a MOF compound, copper dimandelate (CuDM), is crystallized using the regulated diffusion of cations through viscous reactant media and its suitability for dielectric applications is studied for the first time. The crystallinity of the compound is confirmed and structural characterization is carried out using powder X‐ray diffraction measurements. The various functional groups present in the grown sample are confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and Raman analyses. Thermogravimetric analysis establishes the thermal stability of the material up to a temperature of 220 °C. The predicted chemical formula, (Cu[(C6H5) HOCH COO)]2) is verified by CHNS elemental analysis. The observed dielectric constant varies from 18.55 to 8.15 with applied frequency ranging from 0.01 Hz to 10 MHz, making it suitable for low‐k dielectric applications. The optical band gap and Urbach energy are obtained as 3.65 and 0.6211 eV, respectively, by UV–vis analysis. Solid‐state dielectric parameters, which include valence electron plasma energy, Penn gap, Fermi energy, electrical polarizability, and susceptibility of the material, are calculated using theoretical formulations.
A systematic review comparing the macrophage inflammatory response to hydrophobic and hydrophilic sandblasted large grit, acid‐etched titanium or titanium–zirconium surfaces during in vitro studies
Authors: Donohoe Eamonn , Kahatab Rawan , Barrak Fadi
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Macrophages are among the first cells to interact with the dental implant surface and are critical regulators for controlling the immune response toward biomaterials. Macrophages can polarize between two main phenotypes: proinflammatory M1 macrophages and anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages. This systematic review aims to determine if a differing macrophage inflammatory response exists on hydrophilic sandblasted large grit, acid‐etched (SLActive) surfaces compared to sandblasted large grit, acid‐etched (SLA) titanium or titanium–zirconium surfaces during in vitro studies.

Material and Methods

A systematic search of three electronic databases, Medline, DOSS (Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source), and WoS (Web of Science), was performed. Only in vitro studies were included in this systematic review. The electronic search was supplemented with a search of the references. Genetic expression and production of proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory proteins were assessed. The synthesis of quantitative data was completed by narrative synthesis.

Results

A total of 906 studies were found with the systematic search. Eight studies remained after the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Six studies used murine macrophages, while two used human macrophages. Discs were used in six studies, while dental implants were used in the remaining two studies. Genetic expression and cytokine production of proinflammatory cytokines on SLActive surfaces were reduced compared to SLA. Anti‐inflammatory genetic expression and cytokine production was increased on SLActive surfaces. The overall quality of the included studies was low to moderate.

Conclusions

SLActive surfaces modulate macrophages to reduce proinflammatory and increase anti‐inflammatory gene expression and cytokine production compared to SLA surfaces. The in vitro nature of the included studies does not replicate the in vivo healing cascade. Further in vivo studies are required to assess the macrophage response toward SLActive implant surfaces compared to SLA surfaces.
Review of FACTS technologies and applications for accelerating penetration of wind energies in the power system
Authors: Ghadimi A. A. , Gholami M. , Miveh M. R.
Published: March 2023

Conventional energy resource problems made power system planners apply more renewable energy sources (RESs) in the power system. RESs have a significant impact on fulfilling the world's energy demand, protecting the environment at least in the exploration phase, and providing energy reliability as well as security for the new generation of power grids. In this regard, wind power generation is considered a promising solution. However, by increasing the share of wind power generation units in the power sector, some challenges, such as voltage problems, transient stability, increasing system losses, and line congestions can occur. Consequently, an alternative solution is required to accelerate wind power units' connections to the grid by preventing the problems caused by the penetration of wind power. In this regard, Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices can play an important role while they can improve power grid dynamic performance. This paper presents a review of the optimization techniques applied to accelerate the penetration of wind energy by exploiting FACTS devices. The topic identifies the objectives and optimization formulations, as well as schemes and models available in the published literature. This survey gives noteworthy insights to the researchers to cover available solutions in these regards. The literature in the field is summarized in different aspects, such as FACTS technology, objective functions, constraints, optimization methods, planning or operation purposes, and load flow types. At each aspect, a comparison is derived to recognize the most important issues. The result of the review is the finding of future work and contributions which can be done in the field of wind energy integration acceleration using FACTS devices and the output of the paper can be used as a guide for researchers to find a new path for research in this area.
The existence of λ $\lambda $‐decomposable super‐simple (4,2λ) $(4,2\lambda )$‐GDDs of type gu ${g}^{u}$ with λ=2,4 $\lambda =2,4$
Authors: Yu Huangsheng , Chen Jingyuan , Abel R. Julian R. , Wu Dianhua
Published: March 2023

A design is said to be super‐simple if the intersection of any two of its blocks has at most two elements. A design with index is said to be ‐decomposable, if its blocks can be partitioned into nonempty collections , , such that each with the point set forms a design with index . In this paper, it is proved that for , there exists a ‐decomposable super‐simple ‐GDD of type if and only if , and , except for , and except possibly for .
Ordered covering arrays and upper bounds on covering codes
Authors: Castoldi André Guerino , Monte Carmelo Emerson L. , Moura Lucia , Panario Daniel , Stevens Brett
Published: March 2023

This work shows several direct and recursive constructions of ordered covering arrays (OCAs) using projection, fusion, column augmentation, derivation, concatenation, and Cartesian product. Upper bounds on covering codes in Niederreiter–Rosenbloom–Tsfasman (shorten by NRT) spaces are also obtained by improving a general upper bound. We explore the connection between ordered covering arrays and covering codes in NRT spaces, which generalize similar results for the Hamming metric. Combining the new upper bounds for covering codes in NRT spaces and ordered covering arrays, we improve upper bounds on covering codes in NRT spaces for larger alphabets. We give tables comparing the new upper bounds for covering codes to existing ones.
Lived experiences of Oxford House residents prescribed medication‐assisted treatment
Authors: Soto‐Nevarez Arturo , Abo Mary , Hudson Mackenzie , Bobak Ted , Jason Leonard A.
Published: March 2023

Qualitative studies have examined the recovery experiences of individuals prescribed medication‐assisted treatment (MAT), including their experiences within treatment facilities. However, the literature lacks qualitative studies exploring the recovery process of individuals prescribed MAT while living in recovery housing, such as Oxford House (OH). The purpose of this study was to explore how OH residents, who are prescribed MAT, make sense of recovery. The fact that OHs are drug‐free recovery housing is what makes the issue of using MATs potentially contentious in these settings. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to document the lived experiences of individuals prescribed MAT in OH. The sample included: five women and three men, prescribed either methadone or Suboxone, that were living in an OH in the United States. Participants were interviewed on four topics: their recovery process, their transition to OH, and their experience living in and outside of an OH. Analysis of results followed the recommendations for IPA from Smith, Flowers, and Larkin. Four general themes emerged from the data: Recovery Process, Managing Logistics of MAT Utilization, Personal Development, and Familial Values. In conclusion, individuals prescribed MAT did benefit from living in an OH to manage their recovery as well as stay compliant with their medication.
Equitable oriented coloring
Authors: Dybizbański Janusz
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we consider equitable oriented colorings of graphs. Such coloring is a natural combination of two well‐known colorings: oriented coloring and equitable coloring. An oriented ‐coloring of an oriented graph is an arc‐preserving homomorphism from into an oriented graph on vertices, or colors. We say that the coloring is equitable if for every two colors , we have . This paper presents the following results: we show that there is an undirected graph such that every orientation of is equitably oriented 5‐colorable, and we show that there is an orientation of that cannot be colored with six colors. In other words, there is a gap in the set of numbers of colors that can be used for equitable oriented coloring of . Additionally, we concentrate on paths and show that there is an orientation of a path that requires four colors to be equitably oriented colorable. On the other hand, we show that every orientation of any path is equitably oriented ‐colorable, for every .
Pulmonary infection in patients with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome: A multicentre observational study
Authors: Zuo Yan , Wang Heming , Huang Jiaxiang , Zhang Fang , Lv Dongmei , Meng Tao , Bibi Asma , Shen Jilong , Wang Lianzi , Wang Zhongxin , Xu Yuanhong
Published: March 2023

Co‐infection in patients with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) has been reported, posing a serious threat to survival and treatment. We aimed to systematically investigate the SFTS associated pulmonary infection, particularly invasive pulmonary fungal infection (IPFI). During April 2019 to October 2021, we conducted a multicentre observational study on adult hospitalized patients confirmed with SFTS from three tertiary hospital in central China. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data of patients were collected and re‐assessed. A total of 443 patients (51.7% were male sex) were included for analysis with median age of 65‐year‐old. Among them, 190 (42.9%) patients met the criteria for pulmonary infection. Pulmonary infection was associated with shorter survival time (p < 0.0001 by log‐rank test), and adjusted hazard ratio was 1.729 [95% confidence interval, 1.076–2.780] (p = 0.024). Age (odds ratio (OR) 1.040 [1.019–1.062], p < 0.001), time from onset to admission (OR 1.163 [1.070–1.264], p < 0.001), having severe status (OR 3.166 [2.020–4.962], p < 0.001) and symptoms of skin change (OR 2.361 [1.049–5.316], p < 0.001) at admission and receiving intravenous immunoglobin (OR 2.185 [1.337–3.569], p = 0.002) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of pulmonary infection. A total of 70 (15.8%) patients were defined as IPFI. Multivariate analysis showed that time from onset to admission (OR 1.117 [1.016–1.229], p = 0.022), severe status (OR 5.737 [3.054–10.779], p < 0.001), having smoking history (OR 3.178 [1.251–8.070], p = 0.015) and autoimmunity disease (OR 7.855 [1.632–37.796], p = 0.010), receiving intravenous immunoglobin (OR 3.270 [1.424–7.508], p = 0.005) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of IPFI. In SFTS patients with pulmonary infection, white blood count <2.09 × 109 per L (OR 11.064 [3.708–33.012], p < 0.001) and CD3+CD4+ T cell count <104.0 per μL (OR 10.429 [3.395–32.038], p < 0.001) could independently predict IPFI. This study showed the high prevalence and poor outcomes of pulmonary infection and IPFI in patients with SFTS. These findings highlighted the need for active surveillance of fungal pathogens and early antifungal treatment in patients with SFTS.
Estimation of future extreme rainfall in Barcelona (Spain) under monofractal hypothesis
Authors: Monjo Robert , Locatelli Luca , Milligan John , Torres Luis , Velasco Marc , Gaitán Emma , Pórtoles Javier , Redolat Darío , Russo Beniamino , Ribalaygua Jaime
Published: March 2023

Climate change effects on subdaily rainfall (from 5 min to a few hours) can hardly be measured in mid‐latitude climates due to the high natural variability of the precipitation patterns and their effects on local topography. The goal of this study was to obtain change projections of intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curves, for up to 2‐h precipitation events, comparing two approaches that use the daily outputs of the downscaled Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) multi‐model projections: (a) direct scaling of the expected probable precipitation, from 2‐year to 500‐year return periods of daily rainfall and (b) a new semi‐stochastic approach, built by combining the physically forced outputs of climate models (on a daily scale) and stochastic simulation given by the probability distribution of a concentration index (n‐index) for individual rainfall events (on a subdaily scale). The approaches were applied to a set of 27 stations located around Barcelona, Spain, including a long reference series (with 5‐min rainfall records since 1927), representing the highly variable Mediterranean climate. The validation process showed a systematic error (bias) generally smaller than 10%, especially for rainfall extreme events with durations of less than 2 h. The concentration n‐index and IDF curves were projected by 10 downscaled CMIP5 climate models under 2 emission scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), obtaining a consensual increase in both relative concentration and absolute intensities in Barcelona. Ensemble projection of rainfall concentration (n‐index) showed an increase up to 10% by 2071–2100 and about 20% (15%–30% range) for maximum intensities of 2‐year to 500‐year return periods. Results provide robustness in decision‐making regarding the design of stormwater management infrastructure at a local scale.
Evaluation of carbonification of coals using a portable Raman spectrometer
Authors: Culka Adam , Jehlička Jan , Opluštil Stanislav
Published: March 2023

The estimation of the degree of carbonification of coals can be investigated using the Raman microspectroscopy applied for the analysis of grains of selected macerals (altered remains of organic particles). This approach allows for the best control of the analyses such as precise selection and orientation of the maceral grains to be analysed. On the other hand, the miniaturized, especially handheld Raman spectrometers typically offer a significantly less controlled environment with the issues including large laser spot sizes and the focusing issues. However, the advantages of the miniaturized spectrometers include fast analyses and the possibility of in situ analyses. This study illustrates that it is possible to discriminate among the coals of different degrees of maturation of the carbonaceous matter and other types of carbonaceous matter using the data acquired with a portable Raman spectrometer using spectroscopic parameters: D and G band widths and wavenumber positions. The issues inherent to the analyses of such heterogeneous materials such as coals using a portable spectrometer were addressed. Moreover, the variability in the Raman spectroscopic backgrounds of a wide range of coals from lignite to anthracite necessitated the utilization of a robust background removal function. This study shows that modern portable Raman spectrometers with the appropriate excitation are capable of basic discrimination among the different types of carbonaceous matter, with implications towards fast in situ analyses of carbonaceous matter in rocks as an additional tool for a geologist.
A group key exchange and secure data sharing based on privacy protection for federated learning in edge‐cloud collaborative computing environment
Authors: Song Wenjun , Liu Mengqi , Baker Thar , Zhang Qikun , Tan Yu‐an
Published: March 2023

Federated learning (FL) is widely used in internet of things (IoT) scenarios such as health research, automotive autopilot, and smart home systems. In the process of model training of FL, each round of model training requires rigorous decryption training and encryption uploading steps. The efficiency of FL is seriously affected by frequent encryption and decryption operations. A scheme of key computation and key management with high efficiency is urgently needed. Therefore, we propose a group key agreement technique to keep private information and confidential data from being leaked, which is used to encrypt and decrypt the transmitted data among IoT terminals. The key agreement scheme includes hidden attribute authentication, multipolicy access, and ciphertext storage. Key agreement is designed with edge‐cloud collaborative network architecture. Firstly, the terminal generates its own public and private keys through the key algorithm then confirms the authenticity and mapping relationship of its private and public keys to the cloud server. Secondly, IoT terminals can confirm their cryptographic attributes to the cloud and obtain the permissions corresponding to each attribute by encrypting the attributes. The terminal uses these permissions to encrypt the FL model parameters and uploads the secret parameters to the edge server. Through the storage of the edge server, these ciphertext decryption parameters are shared with the other terminal models of FL. Finally, other terminal models are trained by downloading and decrypting the shared model parameters for the purpose of FL. The performance analysis shows that this model has a better performance in computational complexity and computational time compared with the cited literature.
Stakeholder perspectives on the prospect of lynx Lynx lynx reintroduction in Scotland
Authors: Bavin David , MacPherson Jenny , Crowley Sarah L. , McDonald Robbie A.
Published: March 2023

Conservation translocations are complex and challenging, but are frequently employed to tackle biodiversity decline. Large predator translocations can be particularly emotive and contentious, in part because they present actual or perceived risks to the safety and livelihoods of people. Understanding the social feasibility of conservation translocations is imperative, and provides opportunities to identify and address these risks.

In Britain, the Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx is the most frequently raised prospect for large carnivore reintroduction. We used Q‐Methodology to explore stakeholder perspectives on the prospect of lynx reintroduction to Scotland.

We identified five perspectives: Lynx for Change was supportive of lynx reintroduction, feeling that lynx could facilitate ecosystem restoration. Lynx for Economy was also supportive, anticipating economic benefits to local communities. No to Lynx was strongly opposed, perceiving that humans were fulfilling the roles of absent large carnivores. Scotland is not Ready supported the conversation but perceived prohibitive socio‐ecological barriers. We are not Convinced was not satisfied that an adequate case for biodiversity gain had been made, but was open to further exploration of the potential.

There were important areas of divergence among the perspectives over the potential impacts on sheep farming and the degree to which environments should be managed by people or encouraged to self‐regulate. There was a consensus on a lack of trust between stakeholder groups, which was primarily rooted in participants' experiences of previous wildlife reintroductions and the contemporary management of recovering predators. However, there was also consensus that, should lynx reintroduction continue to be explored, a participatory, cross‐sectoral approach could address these trust issues, help manage existing and emergent conflicts, and build knowledge collaboratively.

We provide a foundation for future dialogue between stakeholders over the prospective reintroduction of the lynx to Scotland and recommend a stakeholder‐focused participatory process as the next step. Our findings have wider relevance for wildlife reintroductions, species recovery and conservation conflicts elsewhere.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
An open‐source parameterized life cycle model to assess the environmental performance of silicon‐based photovoltaic systems
Authors: Besseau Romain , Tannous Scarlett , Douziech Mélanie , Jolivet Raphaël , Prieur‐Vernat Anne , Clavreul Julie , Payeur Marie , Sauze Marie , Blanc Isabelle , Pérez‐López Paula
Published: March 2023

Despite being renewable, photovoltaic energy is not burden‐free, since energy and materials are necessary to manufacture, maintain, dismantle, and recycle photovoltaic systems. Over its life cycle, the assessed carbon footprint of silicon‐based photovoltaic energy published in the literature often ranges from 40 to 110 gCO2eq/kWh. However, most of these estimations rely on life cycle inventory (LCI) data that represent the early‐stage performance of the photovoltaic industry. Indeed, collecting LCI data is time‐consuming and practitioners often reuse existing outdated data, which becomes problematic as the photovoltaic industry has been rapidly and significantly evolving. This analysis relies on the parametrization of existing LCI data to better account for the progress already accomplished by the photovoltaic industry. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) model, called PARASOL_LCA, is thus developed. The results of the analysis highlight that the use of outdated LCI data leads to an overestimation of environmental impacts of photovoltaic energy by a factor of 2 or even more for the best current available technologies. The analysis also shows that PARASOL_LCA, with its numerous parameters, can also serve to assess the environmental performance of prospective photovoltaic technologies and to identify impact reduction levers through sensitivity analysis.
Structural and Optical Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Vanitha N. , Kanchana S. K. , Basavaraj R. B. , Watage Shivaraj Madivalappa
Published: March 2023

Herein, pristine poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and PVA‐zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite thin films are prepared by solution casting method with different wt% of ZnO (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5 wt%) nanoparticles with PVA polymer matrix. The addition of ZnO in a PVA matrix induces decrease in the transparency of films. The structural characteristics of prepared thin films are analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. XRD confirms the presence of ZnO structure and β‐phase in the synthesized films. The average crystallite size of the prepared thin films were determined by Scherer's equation. XRD result shows increase in percentage crystallinity of the films. Vibrational modes and functional groups present in pristine PVA and PVA/ZnO thin films are identified by FT‐IR and Raman spectroscopy. FTIR analysis shows the characteristics bands, which corresponds to O–H and Zn–O bands present in the films. Raman spectra of pristine PVA and PVA/ZnO films are reported. Optical characteristics of synthesized pristine PVA and PVA/ZnO nanocomposite thin films are studied by UV–vis spectroscopy. Optical constants like absorption edge, direct bandgap, optical dielectric constant, loss, and optical conductivity were estimated, and optical dispersion parameters are calculated by single oscillator model.
Influence of Solvent Properties on the Measurement Accuracy of Specific Rotation of Chiral Molecular Solutions Based on Photonic Spin Hall Effect
Authors: Peng Jin , Hou Junyong , Xiao Jiaxin , Xu Jingduo , Tang Tingting , Li Jie
Published: March 2023

Chirality distinguishing of biomolecules has attracted much attention in numerous fields. When detecting the chirality of molecules based on the optical rotation characteristics, the detection accuracy of specific rotation is closely related to solvent properties. Herein, taking amino acids as an example, in the case of changing the type, potential of hydrogen value, and concentration of solvents, respectively, the specific rotation is measured using spin Hall effect of light based on weak measurement. The results indicate that the specific rotation values of chiral molecules are different in different types of solvents. When phosphate buffered saline is used as the solvent, the detection sensitivity of chiral molecules is higher under alkaline conditions. When the pH value is fixed, the detection performance under the solvent concentration of 0.1 m is better than that of 0.01 or 0.001 m. The study shows that the solvent properties affect the specific rotation detection of chiral molecular solutions. Proper solvent properties can improve its accuracy, which is of great significance to promote the sensitivity of chiral discrimination.
KI-basierte Analyse des Einflusses von Wetter auf die Fahrgeschwindigkeiten von Fernbussen und Lastkraftwagen
Authors: Plavcan David , Lukau Eridy , Klafft Michael , Piening Moritz
Published: March 2023

Kenntnisse der Zusammenhänge zwischen Wetterbedingungen und Fahrgeschwindigkeiten verbessern die Planbarkeit und Reaktionsfähigkeit im Bereich der Güterlogistik und des öffentlichen Personenverkehrs und können so genutzt werden, um die Kundenzufriedenheit zu verbessern. Ziel ist es dabei, mit Hilfe möglichst genauer Wetterprognosen zu erwartende Beeinträchtigungen frühzeitig zu identifizieren und so die Auswirkungen derselben zu reduzieren. Dieser Beitrag untersucht den Einfluss des Wetters auf die Fahrgeschwindigkeiten von Lastkraftwagen und Fernbussen. Genauer werden zwei Ansätze aus dem Bereich der künstlichen Intelligenz angewandt, um zum einen wetterbedingte Ankunftszeitprognosen zu erstellen und zum anderen Frühwarnungen vor wetterbedingten Verzögerungen zu generieren. Die Ergebnisse der Modelle bestätigen einen negativen Einfluss von Neuschnee und Starkregen auf die Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeiten, wohingegen andere Wetterparameter wie z. B. Wind nur einen marginalen Einfluss auf die Fahrgeschwindigkeiten im Untersuchungsgebiet hatten. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die genutzten Modelle geeignet sind, sowohl Navigationssysteme als auch intelligente Frühwarnsysteme zu verbessern.
Bedürfnis einer Modifikation des beihilferechtlichen Prüfungsmaßstabs im Steuerrecht
Authors: Peschke Thomas
Published: March 2023

In der jüngeren Vergangenheit ist das Steuerrecht stärker in das Visier der EU-Beihilfenaufsicht geraten. Dabei richtet sich die für die Beihilfenaufsicht zuständige Kommission sowohl gegen Steuergesetze als auch gegen Einzelmaßnahmen der nationalen Steuerbehörden . Ganz aktuell stellt sich zudem die Frage, ob eine Verwaltungspraxis der Steuerbehörden zu einer rechtswidrigen Beihilfe führen kann.
Integrated Spatial Ecosystem Services Valuation Approach with Community Participation in a Social Forestry Scheme
Authors: Sampurno Dheny
Published: March 2023

In 2016, the Indonesian government established seven village forests in East Tebing Tinggi Sub-district, Riau Province. These social forestry schemes grant rights to the local society to manage communal land for ecological and livelihood benefits. To do this, they need to identify and value the products and services of the natural resource assets. This study conducts a rapid spatial assessment for an ecosystem service valuation with the participation of local representatives, demonstrating that the integration of a spatial approach and local participation is scientifically implementable for the village forest authority. Using the peat ecosystem services approach, the study estimates that seven village forests contain approximately 36.2 million tons of carbon stocks from the peat soil and peat forest biomass in the form of regulating services. Supporting services are evident in the government’s regulation of ecological conditions based on its designation of peat ecosystem function. The agro-ecosystem of sago plantations for food production offers provisioning services. Local residents and governments support the potential of ecotourism to enhance socio-cultural value via cultural services. All these services demonstrate how the environmental returns for both local livelihoods and a sustainable ecosystem are possible to achieve at the local level. However, support from governments and organizations is required to ensure that local communities can continue to hold the communal land right.
Conclusion
Authors: Osawa Takamasa , Prasetyawan Wahyu , Binawan Akhwan , Okamoto Masaaki
Published: March 2023

The issues, stakeholders, and solutions related to the peatland problem cannot be easily defined or easily addressed. The problem can thus be seen as one of today’s “wicked problems,” which have no true or false solutions, but rather better or worse ones. In addressing this kind of problem, academic researchers and NGO staff can play an important role to identify social and ecological issues and their inter-relationships, and to facilitate communication among local residents and other stakeholders. These activities should be done as continuous and flexible collaboration with local communities to find the better solutions to the peatland problem—or to realize a better future for society—together with those involved in the problem. This is the transdisciplinary approach that the authors seek.
Selling Peatland for the Future: History, Land Management, and the Transformation of Common Land in Rantau Baru
Authors: Osawa Takamasa , Binawan Akhwan
Published: March 2023

Rantau Baru, an old fishing village on the bank of the Kampar River in Indonesia, is surrounded by peat hinterlands. The village territory has been recognized by previous local states for hundreds of years, and the villagers have managed it as ancestral common space based on a matrilineal system and headmanship. However, since the 1990s, acacia and oil palm companies have encroached on the peatlands of the traditional territory. In this situation, many villagers have either sold or plan to sell peat hinterlands in the village territory. How has their ancestral territory transformed into tradable land, and why have they chosen to sell it? What is the relationship between the traditional values of customary space and the adoption of the perspective of land as a commodity? Based on historical research on local land governance and a present-day household survey of land use and attitudes toward peat space, this chapter argues that the privatization of peatlands has transformed a once-common space into a commodity. Villagers sell peatland to actualize its potential amid anxiety and economic difficulty to contribute to the stable future of their descendants.
More on Kakeya Conditions for Achievement Sets
Authors: Miska Piotr , Prus-Wiśniowski Franciszek , Ptak Jolanta
Published: March 2023

We identify an incorrect estimate in the proof of one of principal theorems from Marchwicki and Miska (Results Math, 2021. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00025-021-01479-2) and demonstrate that the original construction of a special series with unique subsums remains valid when using a weaker estimate that we prove to be true. Additionally, we present a weaker version—without the uniqueness of subsums—of the Thm. 2.1 from Marchwicki and Miska (2021), but with a very simple proof based on the concept of semi-fast convergent series.
Real-time changepoint detection in a nonlinear expectile model
Authors: Ciuperca Gabriela , Maciak Matúš , Pešta Michal
Published: March 2023

An online changepoint detection procedure based on conditional expectiles is introduced. The key contribution is threefold: nonlinearity of the underlying model improves the overall flexibility while a parametric form of the unknown regression function preserves a simple and straightforward interpretation; The conditional expectiles, well-known in econometrics for being the only coherent and elicitable risk measure, introduce additional robustness—especially with respect to asymmetric error distributions common in various types of data; The proposed statistical test is proved to be consistent and the distribution under the null hypothesis does not depend on the functional form of the underlying model nor the unknown parameters. Empirical properties of the proposed real-time changepoint detection test are investigated in a simulation study and a practical applicability is illustrated using the Covid-19 prevalence data from Prague.
Optimization of workflow for detection of brain metastases at 3T: is a black-blood MTC prepared 3D T1 used alone robust enough to replace the combination of conventional 3D T1 and the black-blood 3D T1 MTC?
Authors: Chkili Sophia , Lefebvre Yolène , Chao Shih-Li , Bali Maria Antonietta , Lemort Marc , Coquelet Nicolas
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts by using different flip angle evolutions (SPACE) is a black-blood 3D T1-weighted (T1w) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence that has shown robust performance for brain metastases detection. However, this could generate false positive results due to suboptimal blood signal suppression. For that reason, SPACE is used in our institution alongside a non-black-blood T1w sequence: volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE). Our study aims to (i) evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of SPACE compared to its use in combination with VIBE, (ii) investigate the effect of radiologist’s experience in the sequence’s performance, and (iii) analyze causes of discordants results.

Methods

Four hundred seventy-three 3T MRI scans were retrospectively analyzed following a monocentric study design. Two studies were formed: one including SPACE alone and one combining both sequences (SPACE + VIBE, the reference). An experienced neuroradiologist and a radiology trainee independently reviewed the images of each study and reported the number of brain metastases. The sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of SPACE compared to SPACE + VIBE in metastases detection were reported. Diagnostic accuracy of SPACE compared to SPACE + VIBE was assessed by using McNemar’s test. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Cohen’s kappa was used for inter-method and inter-observer variability.

Results

No significant difference was found between the two methods, with SPACE having a Se > 93% and a Sp > 87%. No effect of readers’ experience was disclosed.

Conclusion

Independently of radiologist’s experience, SPACE alone is robust enough to replace SPACE + VIBE for brain metastases detection.
The role of serotonin in modulating common waxbill behaviour
Authors: Saldanha Beatriz C. , Silva Paulo A. , Maximino Caio , Cardoso Gonçalo C. , Trigo Sandra , Soares Marta C.
Published: March 2023

Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a monoaminergic neurotransmitter that is known to influence behaviour in various animal species. Its actions, however, are complex and not well-understood yet. Here, we tested whether and how two 5-HT receptor agonists and a 5-HT receptor antagonist influence behaviour in common waxbills (Estrilda astrild), focusing on aggression, movement and feeding. We applied acute administration of either 8-OH-DPAT (a 5-HT1Areceptor agonist), fluoxetine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor; SSRI) or WAY 100,635 (a 5-HT1Areceptor antagonist), and then quantified behaviour in the context of competition for food. Waxbills treated with the SSRI fluoxetine showed an overall decrease of aggressive behaviour, activity and feeding, while we found no significant effects of treatment with the other serotonergic enhancer (8-OH-DPAT) or with the antagonist WAY 100,635. Since both 8-OH-DPAT and WAY 100,635 act mainly on 5-HT1Areceptor pathways, while fluoxetine more generally affects 5-HT pathways, our results suggest that receptors other than 5-HT1Aare important for serotonergic modulation of waxbill behaviour.

Significance statement

The serotonergic system is of interest for current behavioural research due to its influence on a range of behaviours, including aggression, affiliative behaviour, feeding and locomotion in various species. There are, however, numerous discrepancies regarding the behavioural effects of serotonin across studies. We used acute pharmacological manipulations of the serotonergic system in common waxbills, using two serotonin enhancers (8-OH-DPAT and fluoxetine) and a serotonin blocker (WAY 100,635). Behavioural effects of these pharmacological manipulations on aggressiveness, movement and feeding, during tests of competition over food, indicated an anxiogenic-like effect of fluoxetine, but not of 8-OH-DPAT and WAY 100,635. This suggests a distinct role for different serotonergic pathways on waxbill behaviour.
The Efficacy of VAMMFT Compared to “Bogota Bag” in Achieving Sheath Closure Following Temporary Abdominal Closure at Index Laparotomy for Trauma
Authors: Pillay Pavalini , Smith Michelle T. D. , Bruce John L. , Clarke Damian L. , Bekker Wanda
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The open abdomen (OA) is a necessary component of damage control surgery and closure is often challenging. Our aim was to review our ten‐year experience with OA in trauma patients and to compare the success of a dual closure technique termed vacuum‐assisted, mesh‐mediated fascial traction (VAMMFT) to an exclusively Bogota Bag (BB) approach.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed using the HEMR database from 2012 to 2022, comparing demographics, mechanism of injury, admission vitals and biochemistry between patients with BB and VAMMFT applications. Rate of secondary abdominal closure and complications were assessed in both groups. Logistic regression was used to find predictors of closure.

Results

OA was required by 348 patients at index laparotomy. Of these, 133 (38.2%) were managed with VAMMFT and 215 (61.8%) exclusively with a BB. There were no statistical differences between the BB and VAMMFT groups in terms of demographics, injuries, admission vitals and biochemistry. The VAMMFT group achieved a closure rate of 73% compared to 54.9% in the BB group (OR of 2.2 [1.4–3.7]). There was no significant difference in fistulation rate between the two groups (p = 0.103). Length of hospital stay was 30 versus 17 days in the VAMMFT and BB groups, respectively (OR 1.41 [1.30–1.54]). There were no independent predictors of closure identified in the VAMMFT group. Older patients were less likely to achieve closure when BB was used (OR 0.97 [0.95–0.99]). VAMMFT failure was commonly due to lack of stock (39%) and protocol violations (33%).

Conclusion

The VAMMFT approach to the OA is efficacious and safe. VAMMFT achieves a much higher rate of secondary closure than BB alone with a low rate of enteric fistula formation.
Predictors of physical frailty improvement in older patients enrolled in a multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation program
Authors: Baldasseroni Samuele , Silverii Maria Vittoria , Herbst Andrea , Orso Francesco , Di Bari Mauro , Pratesi Alessandra , Burgisser Costanza , Ungar Andrea , Marchionni Niccolò , Fattirolli Francesco
Published: March 2023

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves clinical and functional recovery in older patients after acute cardiac syndromes, whose outcome is influenced by cardiac disease severity, but also by comorbidity and frailty. The aim of the study was to analyze the predictors of physical frailty improvement during the CR program. Data were collected in all patients aged > 75 years consecutively admitted from 1 January to December 2017 to our CR, consisting of 5-day-per-week of 30-min session of biking or calisthenics on alternate days for 4 weeks. Physical frailty was measured with short physical performance battery (SPPB) at the entry and the end of CR. Outcome was represented by an increase of at least 1 point in the SPPB score from baseline to the end of the CR program. In our study population of 100 patients, mean age 81 years, we demonstrated that a strong predictor of improvement in SPPB score was the poorer performance in the test at baseline; for Δ-1 point of score, we registered an OR 2.50 (95% CI = 1.64–3.85; p = 0.001) of probability to improve the physical performance at the end of CR. Interestingly those patients with worse performance at SPPB balance and chair standing task showed greater probability of ameliorating their physical frailty profile at the end of CR. Our data strongly suggest that CR program after acute cardiac syndrome produces a significant physical frailty improvement in those patients with worse frailty phenotype with an impairment in chair standing or balance at entry.