bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting the combustion properties of boron powder through in‐situ coating
Authors: Piao Junyu , Deng Li , Mao Yaofeng , Wang Jun , Zhang Long
Published: March 2022

Boron powder has been considered as a prime candidate as an additive in solid fuels or propellants. Unfortunately, boron ignition and combustion is hindered by the pre‐existing B2O3 surface layer which slows the oxidizer attack on the underlying boron particles. Therefore, removing the pre‐existing B2O3 surface layer is critical to improve the ignition and combustion performance of boron. Herein, an in‐situ coating strategy is reported to be very effective in removing the pre‐existing B2O3 surface layer of boron powder and improving its combustion performance. Through the in‐situ coating process in ethanol, flammable 3‐aminophenol/formaldehyde resin (AF) protection layer will be formed on the surface of the boron powder, replacing the pre‐existing B2O3 surface layer, and preventing the surface reoxidation of the boron powder. Comparing with the untreated boron powder, such coated boron powder exhibits higher burning rate and can be ignited at lower temperature. This in‐situ coating strategy can not only contribute to the extensive utilization of boron powder in high enthalpy fuels and propellants, but also shed light on the surface modification of functional materials in different fields.
On dynamic pricing under model uncertainty
Authors: Zhu Xiaohan , Sun Xu
Published: March 2022

We formulate and solve a robust dynamic pricing problem for an ambiguity‐averse agent who faces an uncertain probabilistic law governing the realized demand for a single product. Specifically, the pricing problem is framed as a stochastic game that involves a maximizing player (the “agent”) and a minimizing player (“nature”) who promotes robustness by distorting the agent's beliefs within prescribed limits. Our methodology builds on the commonly used entropic approach in the literature but can be utilized to generate a much more versatile class of uncertainty sets. We derive the optimal pricing strategy and the corresponding value function by applying stochastic dynamic programming and solving a version of the Bellman–Isaacs equation. The usefulness of our framework is illustrated by two special cases. Finally, a carefully designed numerical example exposes the value of model robustness.
Integrality in the multinetwork min‐cost equal‐flow problem
Authors: Hassin Refael , Poznanski Renata
Published: March 2022

We consider the min‐cost flow problem on multiple networks defined on duplicates of the same directed graph. The problem is to compute feasible flows such that the sum of flow costs is minimized subject to network demands and coupling constraints that force identical flows on duplicate copies of the same edge for a subset of “special” edges. We focus on whether such a problem has an integer optimal solution. For the case of integer capacities and demands and flow equality on a single edge, there is always an integer optimal solution and it can be found efficiently. For flow equality on multiple edges, we characterize the cases, with respect to the number of special edges and the number of networks, where if the graph is series‐parallel then an integer optimal solution exists for all possible capacity and cost functions.
Pandemic‐inducedeconomic policy uncertainty andUSstock exchanges
Authors: Ongan Serdar , Gocer Ismet , Ongan Ayse
Published: March 2022

This study investigates the impacts of pandemic‐induced economic policy uncertainties (PIEPU) on the S&P500, Nasdaq‐100, and Dow Jones indexes (stock returns). To this aim, for the first time, newly created IDEMV (the Infectious Disease Equity Market Volatility index (henceforth, PIEPU index) is used. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and the Toda and Yamamoto (Journal of Econometrics, 1995, 66, pp. 225–250) causality test are applied for the 2009–2020 period. Empirical findings indicate that rises in the PIEPU index lead to falls of only the S&P500 and Dow Jones indexes. Corporations in the tech‐heavy Nasdaq100 index do not negatively respond to rises in the PIEPU index. Additionally, the negative impacts of the rises in the specifically COVID‐19 based‐constructed PIEPU (DCOVPIEPU) index on the S&P500 and Dow Jones indexes are higher than the negative impacts of the general PIEPU index. This can be interpreted to mean that the larger the magnitude and spread rate of a pandemic, the larger the negative impacts on stock returns. In the sample period of this study, COVID‐19 is the largest and most destructive pandemic compared to H1N1 and Ebola.
Stakeholder perspectives on nature, people and sustainability at Mount Kilimanjaro
Authors: Masao Catherine A. , Prescott Graham W. , Snethlage Mark A. , Urbach Davnah , Torre‐Marin Rando Amor , Molina‐Venegas Rafael , Mollel Neduvoto P. , Hemp Claudia , Hemp Andreas , Fischer Markus
Published: March 2022

Effective approaches towards sustainability need to be informed by a diverse array of stakeholder perspectives. However, capturing these perspectives in a way that can be integrated with other forms of knowledge can represent a challenge.

Here we present the first application of the conceptual framework of the Intergovernmental Science‐Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) to a participatory assessment of local perspectives on nature, people and sustainability on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This assessment was organized in the form of a participatory workshop with five different groups of stakeholders.

Following this framework, we assembled information on the state of and trends in species diversity, Nature's Contributions to People (NCP), and on the main drivers of changes in species and habitats. Additionally, we gathered perspectives on the needs and opportunities for the sustainable management and conservation of natural resources from the individual to the international level.

The various stakeholders agreed that both the condition and extent of the various habitats and NCP are declining.

In line with available knowledge, the key direct drivers of change mentioned by the workshop participants were land use and climate change, whereas human population growth was singled out as the most important indirect driver.

The most frequently suggested measures to address the observed decline in species diversity and its drivers were related to land and water management and to education and awareness raising. Yet, the stakeholder groups differed in the measures they suggested.

The willingness of a diversity of knowledge holders to systematically engage in a structured discussion around all the elements of the IPBES framework provides support for its applicability in participatory workshops aimed at capturing nuanced and context‐based perspectives on social–ecological systems from informed stakeholders.

The application of the IPBES framework enabled the comparability needed for developing narratives of stakeholder visions that can help identify new pathways towards sustainability and guide planning while retaining the context‐based nuances that remain unresolved with non‐participatory methods.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effect of doxapram on the electrical activity of the diaphragm waveform pattern of preterm infants
Authors: Araki Ryosuke , Tomotaki Seiichi , Akita Mitsuyo , Motokura Kouji , Tomobe Yutaro , Shimotsuma Taiki , Hanaoka Shintaro , Tomotaki Hiroko , Iwanaga Kogoro , Niwa Fusako , Takita Junko , Kawai Masahiko
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the change in the waveform pattern of the electrical activity of the diaphragm (Edi) following the administration of doxapram in extremely preterm infants ventilated with neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA).

Study Design

We conducted this retrospective cohort study in our neonatal intensive care unit between November 2019 and September 2021. The study participants were extremely preterm infants under the gestational age of 28 weeks who were ventilated with NAVA and administered doxapram. We collected the data of the Edi waveform pattern and calculated the proportion. To analyze the change in the proportion of the Edi waveform pattern, we compared the proportion of the data for 1 h before and after doxapram administration.

Results

Ten extremely preterm infants were included. Almost all the patients’ respiratory condition improved after doxapram administration. The ventilatory parameters—Edi peak, Edi minimum, peak inspiratory pressure, time in backup ventilation, and number of switches to backup ventilation—did not change significantly. However, the proportion of phasic pattern significantly increased (before: 46% vs. after: 72%; p < 0.05), whereas the central apnea pattern significantly decreased after doxapram administration (before: 31% vs. after: 8.3%; p < 0.05). The proportion of irregular low‐voltage patterns tended to decrease, albeit with no significant changes.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that the proportion of Edi waveform patterns changed following doxapram administration. Edi waveform pattern analysis could be a sensitive indicator of effect with other intervention for respiratory conditions.
Development and validation of a high resolving power absolute quantitative per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances method incorporating Skyline data processing
Authors: Enders Jeffrey R. , Weed Rebecca A. , Griffith Emily H. , Muddiman David C.
Published: March 2022

Rationale

The ability to perform absolute quantitation and non‐targeted analysis on a single mass spectrometry instrument would be advantageous to many researchers studying per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). High‐resolution accurate mass (HRAM) instrumentation (typically deployed for non‐targeted work) carries several advantages over traditional triple quadrupole workflows when performing absolute quantitation. Processing this data using a vendor‐neutral software would promote collaboration for these environmental studies.

Methods

LC‐MS (Orbitrap Exploris 240) was used for absolute quantitation of 45 PFAS using precursor (MS1) peak areas for quantitation, whereas isotope pattern matching and fragmentation (MS2) pattern matching were used for qualitative identification. In addition, a fluorinated chromatographic column achieved superior separation compared to the typical C18 columns typically used in PFAS analyses. This method was validated across eight different chemical classes using recommended guidelines found in EPA Method 537.1 and Skyline data processing software.

Results

The validated limits of all 45 compounds, as well as metrics or accuracy and reproducibility, are reported. Most compounds achieved limits of quantitation in the range of 2‐50 ng/L. Four newly released Chemours‐specific compounds (PEPA, PFO3OA, PFO4DA, and PFO5DoA) were also validated. Aspects of data analysis specific to high resolving power absolute quantitation are reviewed as are the details of processing these data via Skyline.

Conclusions

This method shows the feasibility of performing reproducible absolute quantitation of PFAS on an HRAM platform and does so using an open‐source vendor‐neutral data processing software to facilitate sharing of data across labs and institutions.
Assessing complier average causal effects from longitudinal trials with multiple endpoints and treatment noncompliance: An application to a study of Arthritis Health Journal
Authors: Guo Lulu , Qian Yi , Xie Hui
Published: March 2022

Treatment noncompliance often occurs in longitudinal randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on human subjects, and can greatly complicate treatment effect assessment. The complier average causal effect (CACE) informs the intervention efficacy for the subpopulation who would comply regardless of assigned treatment and has been considered as patient‐oriented treatment effects of interest in the presence of noncompliance. Real‐world RCTs evaluating multifaceted interventions often employ multiple study endpoints to measure treatment success. In such trials, limited sample sizes, low compliance rates, and small to moderate effect sizes on individual endpoints can significantly reduce the power to detect CACE when these correlated endpoints are analyzed separately. To overcome the challenge, we develop a multivariate longitudinal potential outcome model with stratification on latent compliance types to efficiently assess multivariate CACEs (MCACE) by combining information across multiple endpoints and visits. Evaluation using simulation data shows a significant increase in the estimation efficiency with the MCACE model, including up to 50% reduction in standard errors (SEs) of CACE estimates and 1‐fold increase in the power to detect CACE. Finally, we apply the proposed MCACE model to an RCT on Arthritis Health Journal online tool. Results show that the MCACE analysis detects significant and beneficial intervention effects on two of the six endpoints while estimating CACEs for these endpoints separately fail to detect treatment effect on any endpoint.
Digital endocasts from two late Eocene carnivores shed light on the evolution of the brain at the origin of Carnivora
Authors: Flink Therese , Werdelin Lars
Published: March 2022

The evolution of the brain at the origin of Carnivora remains poorly understood, largely owing to the limited number of cranial endocasts known from Carnivoramorpha and basal crown Carnivora. Here, we use x‐ray computed tomography to create digital endocasts of two early carnivores, Quercygale angustidens and Gustafsonia cognita. Quercygale angustidens is generally regarded as the sister taxon to Carnivora and Nimravidae and is thus of great interest to further our understanding of the evolutionary changes that occurred at the origin of Carnivora. Gustafsonia cognita provides a comparison to a contemporary crown carnivoran. We describe the endocasts of these two taxa, placing them in the context of carnivoramorphan phylogeny. Both endocasts preserve the cerebellum in great detail, resulting in a better understanding of the morphology of this part of the brain in early carnivores. Gustafsonia cognita, despite its small size, geological age and basal position, displays a sulcal pattern typical of Amphicyonidae, reaffirming its position within the family. Nimravids; and early carnivorans, such as Gustafsonia cognita, Proailurus lemanensis and Hesperocyon gregarius, have more expanded neocortices than Quercygale angustidens. Current evidence suggests that the increase in gyrification in basal Carnivoramorpha occurred mainly through elongation of existing sulci and entered a new phase at the origin of crown Carnivora. Additional sulci appeared in early members of the order, resulting in distinctive sulcal patterns in the different carnivoran families. Nevertheless, more endocasts of basal carnivorans and carnivoramorphans are needed to better understand the processes driving the evolution of the brain in this group.
Performance evaluation of fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag‐based geopolymer concrete: A comparative study
Authors: Yilmazoglu Arif , Yildirim Salih Taner , Behçet Ömer Faruk , Yıldız Sadık
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, geopolymers, which are more environmentally friendly than cement due to the high energy requirements and high carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of cement production, emerge as alternative binders. In this study, the mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer concrete (GC) based on ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) (100GGBS), 50% fly ash (FA) and 50% GGBS (50FA50GGBS), and FA (100FA) with two different water/geopolymer solids ratios (W/GP) of 0.33 and 0.35 were investigated. Slump, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, unit weight, water absorption, elevated temperature resistance, abrasion resistance, modulus of elasticity, and drying shrinkage tests were carried out. As the percentage of FA in the mixture increased, the slump of the concrete increased, while the cohesion of the concrete decreased and the setting time was delayed. The addition of GGBS increased the compressive strength and the splitting tensile strength of the GC by up to 377% and 278%, respectively. Under the effect of elevated temperature, the 100FA concrete showed less strength loss and weight loss than other concrete. After the abrasion test, 100GGBS concrete lost about 2.5 times less weight than 100FA concrete. The drying shrinkage of geopolymer mortar reached a maximum of 100 microstrains. Among all concrete, 50FA50GGBS‐0.33 showed the highest performance in terms of overall performance.
What corporations can learn from the struggle in the market for souls
Authors: Behrens Alfredo
Published: March 2022

The pace and extent of expanding religions holds essential lessons for business leaders and their corporations' international growth style. Monotheistic religions overtook polytheistic ones and the proselytizing religions expanded faster and farther. This lesson underscores the importance of alignment, as well as suggesting that corporations grow through acquisitions and promoting greater permeability at headquarters. This would improve the international allocation of headquarter capabilities as well as allow faster deployment of the talents acquired through global expansion.
A call for a critical urban climatology: Lessons from critical physical geography
Authors: Beray‐Armond Núbia
Published: March 2022

Urban climatology and environmental justice frequently share the same research site: the city. However, they study urban areas in distinct ways. Urban climatology has contributed to a better understanding of the urban boundary and canopy layer climates by embracing a broader and deeper investigation of the atmospheric and climatic specificities of the cities. Environmental justice has contributed a better understanding of how the poor and people of color are disproportionally affected by environmental problems. I argue here that we need both fields to fully understand urban climates because they are shaped both by legacies of colonialism, and race, gender, and class, and by the particularities of urban energy budgets and the variation in intra‐urban air quality and thermal‐hygrometric characteristics they drive. Critical physical geography can provide important analytical, theoretical, and methodological tools to help urban climatologists and environmental justice scholars work together toward the goal of social and environmental transformation.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Disciplinary Perspectives

Climate and Development > Social Justice and the Politics of Development
Österreich in der ersten Phase der Covid-19-Pandemie
Authors: Aschauer Wolfgang , Prandner Dimitri , Glatz Christoph
Published: March 2022

Mit der Covid-19-Pandemie, die das gesellschaftliche Leben ab März 2020 in Österreich massiv eingeschränkt hat, haben wir es mit der größten gesundheitlichen, ökonomischen und sozialen Herausforderung seit Jahrzehnten zu tun. Zunehmend rücken dabei auch die sozialen Folgen der Pandemie in den Fokus der Öffentlichkeit. Zusammenfassend umreißen wir in der Einleitung jene Themen, die in weiterer Folge auch in den Beiträgen im Vordergrund stehen. Es sind dies die weitreichenden Eingriffe der Pandemie in den Lebensalltag der Bevölkerung, Solidaritätspotentiale in der Gesellschaft, Dynamiken sozialer Ungleichheit sowie Werteverschiebungen und Zukunftserwartungen zur weiteren gesellschaftlichen Entwicklung. Das Ziel des vorliegenden Sammelbands ist es, empirische Befunde, die auf mehreren Umfrageprojekten während der Pandemie basieren, in die Gesellschaft zu tragen und dadurch tiefergehende Reflexionen über die österreichische Gesellschaft während der Corona-Pandemie zu ermöglichen.
Informationsverhalten und Glaubwürdigkeit von Medien in der Krise
Authors: Prandner Dimitri
Published: March 2022

Klare und korrekte Informationen sind in Krisensituationen von gesamtgesellschaftlicher Relevanz. Wie sich die Österreicher*innen während der ersten Welle der Covid-19-Pandemie informiert haben und welche medialen Informationsquellen sie als glaubwürdig beurteilten steht im Zentrum des Beitrags. Auf Basis derValues in Crisis-Studie kann gezeigt werden, dass sich das allgemeine Informationsverhalten in der Krise nur wenig verändert hat, aber der Einfluss der sozialen Ungleichheit auf die Mediennutzung im Vergleich zu vorherigen Studien weniger deutlich ausgeprägt ist. Das Fernsehen stellte erwartungsgemäß die wichtigste Informationsquelle für die befragten Österreicher*innen dar. Die Bedeutung von sozialen Medien und Onlinenachrichtenseiten nimmt aber kontinuierlich zu und ist, besonders bei jüngeren Personen, im Ansteigen begriffen. Effekte von sozialen Ungleichheiten zeigten sich bei der Beurteilung von Medieninhalten hinsichtlich ihrer Glaubwürdigkeit. Personen in besserer sozialer Position glauben eher journalistischen Nachrichtenquellen. Dies ist vor dem Hintergrund, dass journalistische Inhalte helfen sollten das gesellschaftliche Zusammenleben zu organisieren von Bedeutung. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass weniger privilegierte Personengruppen medial übermittelte Handlungsanweisungen weniger glaubhaft finden und dementsprechend auch potenziell ihr Verhalten weniger stark an die Gegebenheiten anpassen als gewünscht.
Soziales Vertrauen und Solidarität in Zeiten der Krise
Authors: Bodi-Fernandez Otto , Grausgruber Alfred , Glatz Christoph
Published: March 2022

Gesellschaftlicher Zusammenhalt, Solidarität und Vertrauen sind während der Corona-Krise zu viel beschworenen Schlagwörtern geworden. Sie stehen für eine Form sozialen Kapitals, das in Zeiten der Krise eine wesentliche Ressource zu deren Bewältigung darstellen soll und auch von politischer und medizinischer Seite oftmals eingefordert wird. Eng verbunden mit dem Begriff der Solidarität ist jener des sozialen Vertrauens. Das Vertrauen in andere Menschen sowie in zentrale gesellschaftliche Institutionen wird als wichtige Komponente des Sozialkapitals einer Gesellschaft betrachtet und gilt als wesentliche Grundlage für den gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt. Das Buchkapitel beschäftigt sich mit der Solidarität und dem sozialen Vertrauen in der österreichischen Bevölkerung während der ersten Welle der Covid-19-Pandemie anhand der Daten des Austrian Corona Panel Projects. Untersucht wird, wie sich das Ausmaß des sozialen Vertrauens im Vergleich zu früher verändert hat und inwieweit es Unterschiede zwischen verschiedenen Bevölkerungsgruppen gibt, die von der Pandemie besonders betroffen sind (z. B. Vorerkrankte, Personen in beengten Wohnverhältnissen, Alleinlebende, Eltern von schulpflichtigen Kindern, Alleinerziehende, beruflich Betroffene). Des Weiteren wird untersucht, wie sich die Wahrnehmung des gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalts während der Zeit der Covid-19-Pandemie entwickelt hat, inwieweit sich solidarisches Handeln in verschiedenen Personengruppen unterscheidet und in welchem Ausmaß soziales Vertrauen zum solidarischen Handeln beiträgt.
Homes’ law in holographic superconductor with linear-T resistivity
Authors: Jeong Hyun-Sik , Kim Keun-Young
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Homes’ law, ρs = CσDCTc, is a universal relation of superconductors between the superfluid density ρs at zero temperature, the critical temperature Tc and the electric DC conductivity σDC at Tc. Experimentally, Homes’ law is observed in high Tc superconductors with linear-T resistivity in the normal phase, giving a material independent universal constant C. By using holographic models related to the Gubser-Rocha model, we investigate how Homes’ law can be realized together with linear-T resistivity in the presence of momentum relaxation. We find that strong momentum relaxation plays an important role to exhibit Homes’ law with linear-T resistivity.
Pseudo and quasi gluon PDF in the BFKL approximation
Authors: Chirilli Giovanni Antonio
Published: March 2022

Abstract

I study the behavior of the gauge-invariant gluon bi-local operator with space- like separation at large longitudinal distances. Performing the Fourier transform, I also calculate the behavior of the pseudo and quasi gluon PDF at low Bjorken x and compare it with the leading and next-to-leading twist approximation. I show that the pseudo-PDF and quasi-PDF are very different at this regime and that the higher twist corrections of the quasi-PDF come in not as inverse powers of P but as inverse powers of xBP.
Fractional truncated Laplacians: representation formula, fundamental solutions and applications
Authors: Birindelli Isabeau , Galise Giulio , Topp Erwin
Published: March 2022

We introduce some nonlinear extremal nonlocal operators that approximate the, so called, truncated Laplacians. For these operators we construct representation formulas that lead to the construction of what, with an abuse of notation, could be called “fundamental solutions”. This, in turn, leads to Liouville type results. The interest is double: on one hand we wish to “understand” what is the right way to define the nonlocal version of the truncated Laplacians, on the other, we introduce nonlocal operators whose nonlocality is on one dimensional lines, and this dramatically changes the prospective, as is quite clear from the results obtained that often differ significantly with the local case or with the case where the nonlocality is diffused. Surprisingly this is true also for operators that approximate the Laplacian.
Bariatric Surgery is Effective and Safe for Obese Patients with Compensated Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Bai Jie , Jia Zhe , Chen Yu , Li Yongguo , Zheng Sujun , Duan Zhongping
Published: March 2022

Background

With the global pandemic of obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the incidence of cirrhosis associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has greatly increased. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bariatric surgery in obese cirrhotic patients.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies. Effectiveness outcomes were weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and improvement in liver function. Safety outcomes were procedural complications and mortality.

Results

A total of 15 studies were included in this meta‐analysis. Patients with compensated cirrhosis lost weight significantly after surgery, and the percentage of excess weight loss was 60.44 (95% CI, 44.34 to 76.55). Bariatric surgery resulted in remission of NAFLD in 57.9% (95% CI, 27.5% to 88.3%), T2DM in 58.4% (95% CI, 48.4% to 68.4%), hypertension in 53.1% (95% CI, 43% to 63.3%), dyslipidemia in 59.8% (95% CI, 41.1% to 78.5%) of patients with cirrhosis. Bariatric surgery reduced the levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. The incidence of surgical complications in patients with cirrhosis was about 19.2% (95% CI, 11.7% to 26.6%), which was higher than that in patients without cirrhosis (OR 2.67 [95% CI, 1.26 to 5.67]). Patients with cirrhosis had an overall mortality rate of 1.3%, and the mortality rates for compensated cirrhosis and decompensated cirrhosis were 0.9% and 18.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Bariatric surgery is effective for weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and reversal of liver damage. Although cirrhotic patients have a higher risk of complications and death, bariatric surgery is relatively safe for well‐compensated cirrhosis.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Interventional Radiology Practice Worldwide: Results from a Global Survey
Authors: Gomez F. , Reimer P. , Pereira P. L. , Bent C. , Cazzato R. L. , Das M. , Diamantopoulos A. , Zeka B. , Kaufmann N. , Makris G.
Published: March 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented impact on clinical practice and healthcare professionals. We aimed to assess how interventional radiology services (IR services) were impacted by the pandemic and describe adaptations to services and working patterns across the first two waves.

Methods

An anonymous six-part survey created using an online service was distributed as a single-use web link to 7125 members of the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe via email. Out of 450 respondents, 327 who completed the survey at least partially including 278 who completed the full survey were included into the analysis.

Results

Interventional radiologists (IRs) reported that the overall workload decreased a lot (18%) or mildly (36%) or remained stable (29%), and research activities were often delayed (30% in most/all projects, 33% in some projects). Extreme concerns about the health of families, patients and general public were reported by 43%, 34% and 40%, respectively, and 29% reported having experienced significant stress (25% quite a bit; 23% somewhat). Compared to the first wave, significant differences were seen regarding changes to working patterns, effect on emergency work, outpatient and day-case services in the second wave. A total of 59% of respondents felt that their organisation was better prepared for a third wave. A total of 19% and 39% reported that the changes implemented would be continued or potentially continued on a long-term basis.

Conclusion

While the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected IR services in terms of workload, research activity and emotional burden, IRs seem to have improved the own perception of adaptation and preparation for further waves of the pandemic.
Analytic approximation for the collapse of viscous tubes driven by surface tension and pressure difference
Authors: Sanders Tarun M. , Putrino Gino , Keating Adrian
Published: March 2022

In this work, an approximate analytic formula is developed which accurately models the one-dimensional collapse kinetics of viscous glass tubes, driven by surface tension and low-to-moderate pressure differences. This is in contrast to existing analytic approaches from the literature where either surface tension is the only driving force, or extremely high pressure differences are assumed. Extensive model validation is provided against numerical computation of the exact one-dimensional and two-dimensional models for cross-sectional collapse, as well as with experimental data from the literature. Practical utility of this formula is demonstrated for effortlessly solving the inverse problem for determining the viscosity and surface tension of glass tubes.
Bullying behavior and employee well-being: how do different forms of social support buffer against depression, anxiety and exhaustion?
Authors: Pauksztat Birgit , Salin Denise , Kitada Momoko
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Workplace bullying has severe negative consequences for the well-being of targeted employees. Previous research suggests that social support may buffer against such adverse effects. However, it remains unclear if different forms of support have equally strong effects and if support buffers equally effectively against different outcomes. Further, little is known about social support as a mitigating factor in remote occupational groups such as seafarers. This study examines the buffering effects of four forms of support (instrumental and emotional peer support, company support, non-work support) on three aspects of employee well-being (depression, anxiety, and exhaustion) among seafarers.

Methods

Responses to a cross-sectional online survey from a convenience sample of 414 seafarers on international commercial vessels were analyzed using moderated regression analyses with PROCESS.

Results

Exposure to workplace bullying behavior increased seafarers’ depression, anxiety and exhaustion. Instrumental peer support and non-work support buffered the negative impact of bullying on depression. The impact of bullying on exhaustion was buffered by company support. The impact of bullying on anxiety was not buffered by any of the four forms of support.

Conclusion

Extending previous research, the findings suggest that the interaction between workplace bullying and support depends not only on the source of support, but also on the type of support and the outcome considered. While support from colleagues on board was important for seafarers, company and non-work support must not be overlooked. Interventions should, therefore, encourage the development of peer support and ensure access to shore-based support for workers in remote locations.
Novel characteristics of soluble fibrin: hypercoagulability and acceleration of blood sedimentation rate mediated by its generation of erythrocyte-linked fibers
Authors: Galanakis Dennis K. , Protopopova Anna , Li Kao , Yu Yingjie , Ahmed Tahmeena , Senzel Lisa , Heslin Ryan , Gouda Mohamed , Koo Jaseung , Weisel John , Manco-Johnson Marilyn , Rafailovich Miriam
Published: March 2022

Soluble fibrin (SF) in blood consists of monomers lacking both fibrinopeptides A with a minor population in multimeric clusters. It is a substantial component of isolated fibrinogen (fg), which spontaneously self-assembles into protofibrils progressing to fibers at sub-physiologic temperatures, a process enhanced by adsorption to hydrophobic and some metal surfaces. Comparisons of SF-rich (FR) and SF-depleted (FD) fg isolates disclosed distinct molecular imprints of each via an adsorption/desorption procedure using gold surfaced silica microplates. Accelerated plasminogen activator-induced lysis and decreased stiffness (G′) of thrombin-induced FR fg clots were revealed by thomboelastography. Erythrocyte sedimentation (ESR) in afibrinogenemic plasma (Hematocrit 25–33%) was accelerated by FR fg nearly threefold that of FD fg. Stained smears disclosed frequent rouleaux formations and fibers linking stacked erythrocytes in contrast to no rouleaux by FD fg. Rouleaux formations were more pronounced at 4 °C than at ambient temperatures and at fiber-membrane contacts displayed irregular, knobby membrane contours. One of several FR fg isolates also displayed incomplete fiber networks in cell-free areas. What is more, pre-mixing FR fg with each of three monoclonal IgG anti-fg antibodies at 1.5 mol/mol fg, that inhibited fibrin polymerization, prevented rouleaux formation save occasional 2–4 erythrocyte aggregates. We conclude that spontaneously generated SF fibers bound to erythrocytes forming intercellular links culminating in rouleaux formation and ensuing ESR acceleration which in clinical settings reflects hypercoagulability. Also, the results can explain the reported fg binding to erythrocytes via ligands such as CD47, stable in vivo RBC aggregates in capillaries, and red areas of pathologic thrombi.
A novel sample and feature dependent ensemble approach for Parkinson’s disease detection
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Chakraborty Chinmay , He Zhiquan , Cao Wenming , Imrana Yakubu , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: March 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disease that has been reported to have affected most people worldwide. Recent research pointed out that about 90% of PD patients possess voice disorders. Motivated by this fact, many researchers proposed methods based on multiple types of speech data for PD prediction. However, these methods either face the problem of low rate of accuracy or lack generalization. To develop an approach that will be free of these issues, in this paper we propose a novel ensemble approach. These paper contributions are two folds. First, investigating feature selection integration with deep neural network (DNN) and validating its effectiveness by comparing its performance with conventional DNN and other similar integrated systems. Second, development of a novel ensemble model namely EOFSC (Ensemble model with Optimal Features and Sample Dependant Base Classifiers) that exploits the findings of recently published studies. Recent research pointed out that for different types of voice data, different optimal models are obtained which are sensitive to different types of samples and subsets of features. In this paper, we further consolidate the findings by utilizing the proposed integrated system and propose the development of EOFSC. For multiple types of vowel phonations, multiple base classifiers are obtained which are sensitive to different subsets of features. These features and sample-dependent base classifiers are integrated, and the proposed EOFSC model is constructed. To evaluate the final prediction of the EOFSC model, the majority voting methodology is adopted. Experimental results point out that feature selection integration with neural networks improves the performance of conventional neural networks. Additionally, feature selection integration with DNN outperforms feature selection integration with conventional machine learning models. Finally, the newly developed ensemble model is observed to improve PD detection accuracy by 6.5%.
In vivo detection of the lumbar intraforaminal ligaments by MRI
Authors: Henkelmann Jeanette , Wiersbicki Dina , Steinke Hanno , Denecke Timm , Heyde Christoph-Eckhard , Voelker Anna
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Intraforaminal ligaments (IFL) are of great interest to anatomists and clinicians to fully understand the detailed anatomy of the neuroforamina and to diagnose unclear radicular symptoms. Studies published until now have described radiological imaging of the IFLs using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on donor bodies. In the present study, we investigated the detectability of lumbar IFLs in vivo in adults using the high spatial resolution of the constructive interference in steady state (CISS) sequence.

Methods

A total of 14 patients were studied using a 1.5 T MRI scanner. The lumbar spine was imaged using the parasagittal CISS sequence, and the detectability of the IFLs was assessed for each lumbar level. All image datasets were analyzed by a radiologist, an orthopedic surgeon, and an anatomist. Interrater reliability was expressed as Fleiss’ Kappa. Using a single data set, a three-dimensional (3D) model was created to map the location of the IFLs within the intervertebral foramen (IF) and the immediate surrounding vessels.

Results

Overall, the radiologist was able to detect IFLs in 60% of all imaged IFs, the orthopedic surgeon in 62%, and the anatomist in 66%. Fleiss’ Kappa for the various segments varies from 0.71 for L4/5 up to 0.90 for L3/4.

Conclusion

Lumbar IFLs were successfully detected in vivo in every patient. The detection frequency varied from 42–86% per IF. We demonstrated reproducible imaging of the IFLs on MRI, with good interrater reliability. The present study was a launching point for further clinical studies investigating the potential impact of altered IFLs on radicular pain.
Childhood adversity and approach/avoidance-related behaviour in boys
Authors: Grossheinrich Nicola , Schaeffer Julia , Firk Christine , Eggermann Thomas , Huestegge Lynn , Konrad Kerstin
Published: March 2022

Childhood adversity has been suggested to affect the vulnerability for developmental psychopathology, including both externalizing and internalizing symptoms. This study examines spontaneous attention biases for negative and positive emotional facial expressions as potential intermediate phenotypes. In detail, typically developing boys (6–13 years) underwent an eye-tracking paradigm displaying happy, angry, sad and fearful faces. An approach bias towards positive emotional facial expressions with increasing childhood adversity levels was found. In addition, an attention bias away from negative facial expressions was observed with increasing childhood adversity levels, especially for sad facial expressions. The results might be interpreted in terms of emotional regulation strategies in boys at risk for reactive aggression and depressive behaviour.
A Global Synthesis of the Effects of Livestock Activity on Hydrological Processes
Authors: Eldridge David J. , Ding Jingyi , Travers Samantha K.
Published: March 2022

The livestock sector supports billions of people worldwide, yet when poorly managed, can have substantial negative effects on soils and ecosystem functions. Despite numerous studies and reviews of the effects of livestock activity on hydrological functions, a global synthesis of their effects on different biotic (vegetation, herbivore type) and abiotic (climate, soil, spatial scales) factors remains elusive. This makes it difficult to provide ecologically based advice on how best to manage grazing to minimise environmental damage and maximise hydrological functions. We used a global meta-analysis to examine the effects of livestock activity on hydrological inflows (infiltration, soil moisture), and outflows (runoff, sediment) using a dataset compiled from 3044 contrasts of grazed and ungrazed data from 129 publications between 1935 and 2020. Overall, we found that livestock activity increased sediment production (+ 52 ± 19.8%; mean ± 95% CI), reduced infiltration (− 25 ± 5.2%), but had no significant effect on either runoff (+ 27 ± 29.6%) or soil moisture (− 5 ± 5.9%). These impacts varied markedly among herbivore types and intensity, with greatest reductions in infiltration at high and low grazing contrasts, and more pronounced negative effects of grazing when sheep and cattle grazed together than either alone. The impact of livestock activity also varied with climatic region, soil texture, and the interaction between aridity and plant cover. Our study demonstrates the nuanced effects of livestock activity, with herbivore type and intensity, and environmental context modifying the hydrological outcomes. Livestock grazing is unlikely to result in positive environmental outcomes for infiltration and sediment production.
Bat4CEP: a bat algorithm for mining of complex event processing rules
Authors: Bruns Ralf , Dunkel Jürgen
Published: March 2022

Complex Event Processing (CEP) is a modern software technology for the dynamic analysis of continuous data streams. CEP is able of searching extremely large data streams in real time for the presence of event patterns. So far, specifying event patterns of CEP rules is still a manual task based on the expertise of domain experts. This paper presents a novel bat-inspired swarm algorithm for automatically mining CEP rule patterns that express the relevant causal and temporal relations hidden in data streams. The basic suitability and performance of the approach is proven by extensive evaluation with both synthetically generated data and real data from the traffic domain.
Constructing Narrative Identity and Capabilities of Finnish Reform School Adolescents
Authors: Niiranen Janette , Isola Anna-Maria , Känkänen Päivi , Manninen Marko
Published: March 2022

Most studies of adolescents placed in foster care due to severe conduct problems have focused on their problems, while adolescents with healthy adulthood condition remain understudied. In Finland, adolescents with severe conduct problems are placed in reform schools (RS). The purpose of this study was to examine how former RS adolescents’ narrative identity and capability construction interact in different phases of their life-stories. Semi-structured life-story interviews were conducted with 13 former RS adolescents with healthy adulthood condition. Data were analyzed using a narrative constructivist method. We found a story in which the theoretical elements found from the research material were especially rich and thick and decided to present it as a case example of our findings—Anna’s story. The analysis showed that capabilities were closely related to RS adolescents’ identity construction and well-being. Strengthened capabilities provided material for identity construction, such as identities of meaning making, agency, redemption, and communion. The findings of the study point out that out-of-home care adolescents’ stable and trusting relationships should be supported as they may strengthen capabilities and help develop feelings of meaningfulness, belonging, experienced parity of participation and senses of coherence.
Adolescent Family and Dating Violence and the Criminal Law Response
Authors: Douglas Heather , Walsh Tamara
Published: March 2022

The criminal law response to adolescent family and dating violence is understudied in Australia. The aim of the present study was to examine the charges and sentences adolescents face when they perpetrate acts of violence against family members or intimate partners, and to better understand the personal circumstances of these adolescents, including whether they have been diagnosed with a mental illness, whether they have a criminal history and whether they have been subject to child protection interventions. We undertook a two stage study analyzing unpublished statistical data and case files held by the Youth Justice department in Queensland, Australia. We found that the most commonly charged offence was contravention of a family violence protection order in the context of adolescent dating violence. We found that many of the adolescents charged with adolescent family and dating violence related offences faced significant challenges and that Indigenous young people were significantly overrepresented in family violence related charges, especially for contraventions of a family violence protection order. Whilst criminal law responses are uncommon in parent–child and sibling violence contexts, family violence protection orders are over-utilized as a response to adolescent dating violence. Such orders when breached result in criminalization of the young person. Resources should to be (re)directed away from the criminal law system and into community-led, place-based initiatives that address the drivers of crime and incarceration.
The landscapes of livestock diversity: grazing local breeds as a proxy for domesticated species adaptation to the environment
Authors: Velado-Alonso Elena , Morales-Castilla Ignacio , Gómez-Sal Antonio
Published: March 2022

Context

Domesticated animals play a central role in agricultural landscapes. However, livestock has been scarcely studied from a spatial perspective. Mapping of livestock diversity has been limited by the lack of distribution and demography data. This shortfall limits both the reach of actions aimed to conserve threatened breeds and their consideration as a tool for improving sustainability in livestock landscapes.

Objectives

To analyse environmental drivers of local grazing livestock breed—those autochthonous to a specific region—distributions and delineate livestock ecoregions, i.e. areas where certain groups of breeds exhibit similarly response to environmental factors in their distribution.

Methods

We used non-metric multidimensional scaling and hierarchical clustering to explore the distribution of the areas of origin of 119 local livestock breeds of the bovine, ovine, caprine, equine and asinine species. In addition, we performed randomisations and preference index to establish livestock ecoregions.

Results

Our results show contrasting spatial distributions of grazing local breeds across the studied species, explained by environmental factors. The distribution of cattle breeds is determined by the temperate influence of Atlantic Ocean, while sheep breeds are related to more continental climates, especially to those of the central Iberian plateau. Goat breeds are associated with limiting factors in the context of the Mediterranean climate, such as the seasonality of precipitation, and equine breeds are adapted to particular regions, reaching areas at the environmental extremes. The partitioning of the geographic and environmental space is reflected in the livestock ecoregions.

Conclusions

Livestock intraspecific diversity has acted as an adaptive response of domesticated grazing animals to specific environmental conditions. Our delineation of livestock ecoregions could aid to move towards more sustainable agricultural and livestock landscapes and help in the conservation of agrobiodiversity.