bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of prepolymer reaction time in the fabrication of palm kernel oil polyol based shape memory polyurethane
Authors: Mat Saad Norshahli , Mohd Salleh Norliyana , Abdullah Tuti Katrina , Ahmad Zubir Syazana
Published: December 2021

Vegetable oil‐based shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) has been rapidly developed in the field of advanced polymeric materials due to its unique responsive characteristic. This research aimed to investigate the effect of prepolymer reaction time on the microphase separation, soft segment crystallinity, shape memory, and tensile properties of palm kernel oil polyol (PKO‐p)‐based SMPU. The SMPU samples were prepared via two‐step bulk polymerization process utilizing 4,4‐methylenebis (cyclohexyl isocyanate) (HMDI), polycaprolactone diol (PCL) and 1,4‐butanediol (BD). The reaction time after the addition of PKO‐p varied from 0.5 to 2.5 h in prepolymer synthesis. This reaction time resulted in excellent microphase separation and improve shape memory properties. The Fourier transform infra‐red analysis revealed that the degree of microphase separation of the polyurethane elastomer (PUE) increased with increasing prepolymer reaction time. In consequence, the shape fixity behavior of the PUE samples improved. The tensile strength and strain at break of PUE increased with increasing reaction time up to 2.0 h. However, when the reaction time was prolonged to 2.5 h, both values decreased. Thus, the results showed the advantages of using PKO‐p, which can minimize the usage of petroleum‐based polyol and improve the tensile and shape memory behavior of the PKO‐p‐based SMPU.
Controllable construction of cross‐linking network for regulating on the mechanical properties of polydimethylsiloxane and polydimethylsiloxane/carbon nanotubes composites
Authors: Cai Jie‐Hua , Huang Ming‐Lu , Chen Xu‐Dong , Wang Ming
Published: December 2021

Herein, the cross‐linking density was adjusted controllably by tuning the curing reaction to gain polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers with different mechanical performances. First of all, the cross‐linking network of PDMS was adjusted by tuning the parameters of the fabrication process such as curing temperature, curing time, and component ratio. Lowering the temperature, shortening the curing time, and using less curing agent were discovered to effectively reduce the cross‐linking density. Then, the effects of important factors on cross‐linking density, including the fabrication process, the time for post‐curing, and the content of carbon nanotube (CNT), were thoroughly discussed. Furthermore, the dynamic mechanical performance, mechanical characteristics, and viscoelastic properties of PDMS and PDMS/CNT composites were studied based on the regulation of the cross‐linking network. The stronger the cross‐linking density, the higher the storage modulus, the greater the restriction on the molecular chain of silicone rubber. Besides, the post‐curing for 5 months and the introduction of CNT fillers appeared to be a viable option for promoting the cross‐linking reaction with higher density and thereby strengthening the mechanical properties of PDMS.
Coordination Flexibility Aided CO2‐specific Gating in an Iron Isonicotinate MOF
Authors: Singh Himan Dev , Nandi Shyamapada , Chakraborty Debanjan , Singh Kirandeep , Vinod Chathakudath P. , Vaidhyanathan Ramanathan
Published: December 2021

Coordination flexibility assisted porosity has been introduced into an Iron‐isonicotinate metal‐organic framework (MOF), (Fe(4‐PyC)2 ⋅ (OH). The framework showed CO2‐specific gate opening behavior, which gets tuned as a function of temperature and pressure. The MOF′s physisorptive porosity towards CO2, CH4, and N2 was investigated; it adsorbed only CO2 via a gate opening phenomenon. The isonicotinate, representing a borderline soft base, is bound to the hard Fe3+ centre through monodentate carboxylate and pyridyl nitrogen. This moderately weak binding enables isonicotinate to spin like a spindle under the CO2 pressure opening the gate for a sharp increase in CO2 uptake at 333 mmHg (At 298 K, the CO2 uptake increases from 0.70 to 1.57 mmol/g). We investigated the MOF′s potential for CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 gas separation aided by this gating. IAST model reveals that the CO2/N2 selectivity jumps from 325 to 3131 when the gate opens, while the CO2/CH4 selectivity increases three times. Interestingly, this Fe‐isonicotinate MOF did not follow the trend set by our earlier reported Hard‐Soft Gate Control (established for isostructural M2+‐isonicotinate MOFs (M=Mg, Mn)). However, we account for this discrepancy using the different oxidation state of metals confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and magnetism.
The passive recipient: Neural correlates of negative self‐view in depression
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Li Ping , Zheng Li , Liu Zhiyuan , Cui Guangcheng , Li Lin , Zhang Liangtang , Hu Qiang , Guo Yu , Wan Lu , Li Chengchong , Chen Yunhui , Sun Zhenghai , Cui Hongsheng , Meng Xin , Si Yu
Published: December 2021

Introdction

Previous studies have argued that people tend to isolate themselves from negative information. This tendency is modulated by the individual's role in social interaction, that is, as an initiative actor (e.g., “I hit Tom”) or a passive recipient (e.g., “Paul hits me”). Depressed patients tend to focus on negative aspects of themselves and cope with situations passively. It is still an open question how the actor/recipient role affects the behavioral and neural responses to self in depression.

Methods

The present study adopted functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) technology to investigate behavioral and neural responses to self (as an actor/recipient) in depressed patients and the matched healthy controls when attributing negative events.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, depressed patients showed more self‐attribution for negative events. Depressed patients showed increased brain activity in the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) subsystem of the default mode network (DMN) when they played recipient role in self‐related negative events. Activity of the dmPFC subsystem was negatively correlated with depressed patients’ self‐attribution for negative events in recipient condition. While decreased brain activity in the medial temporal lobe (MTL) subsystem was observed in depressed patients when they played the actor or recipient role in self‐related negative events. Activity of the MTL subsystem was negatively correlated with depressed patients’ reaction time when they played recipient role in selfrelated negative events.

Conclusion

These results implicated that depressed patients manifested the negative self‐view. Actor/recipient role affected their activation patterns in the DMN which were different from the healthy controls. The correlation between the abnormal brain activations of the DMN and the behavioral performances might manifest more easily when depressed patients played recipient role in negative events.
Towards sustainable development: Green supply chain design and planning using monetization methods
Authors: da Silva Cátia , Barbosa‐Póvoa Ana Paula , Carvalho Ana
Published: December 2021

Addressing environmental concerns in supply chain is a challenge, where one of the greatest difficulties is quantifying the environmental impacts. This quantification in abstract units is often done, but it does not always allow decision‐makers to understand how their supply chains' influence the environment. In this regard, environmental quantification in monetary units can be an asset but, on this, not enough information exists about their application in supply chain. This work intends to develop a decision support tool for the design and planning of closed‐loop supply chains accounting for the monetization of environmental impacts, exploring the most used monetization methods. As main contributions, this paper supports the understanding of the methodological basis of the main monetization methods. This is then embedded into an optimization‐based decision supporting tool that defines the design and planning of supply chain allowing to conclude on the most appropriate methods to used when considering supply chain environmental performance. From the results is also demonstrated how the different monetization methods can influence the supply chain design and planning. A set of main recommendations to decision‐makers and researchers is provided that support the definition of supply chain strategy towards greener systems allowing the evolution of the currently practiced knowledge.
The impact of sustainability on marketing strategy and business performance: The case of Italian fisheries
Authors: Risitano Marcello , Romano Rosaria , Rusciano Vincenzo , Civero Gennaro , Scarpato Debora
Published: December 2021

In the last years, sustainability has become a successful, relevant, critical factor in several food industries. The adoption of a sustainable marketing strategy contributes positively to changes in society in terms of environmental, social and economic development. The relationship between sustainability and business performance has been widely debated in management and organisational studies. However, despite its importance and relevance, fishery sustainability has not been systematically considered by scientific studies. This paper identifies and analyses the critical factors that describe the propensity towards sustainable development for large companies within the Italian fishery sector. For this purpose, the relationships among the following latent variables were analysed: sustainable social behaviour, sustainable environmental behaviour, sustainable marketing, and return on investment. A theoretical research model has been proposed and empirically tested using a methodology based on structural equation modelling.
Rice freshness determination during paddy storage based on solvent retention capacity
Authors: Li Xingjun , Han Xu , Gao Guangbiao , Wu Jianzhang
Published: December 2021

Background and objectives

Rice is an important staple food that is often stored for long periods (e.g., 2 years) but is subject to aging effects that reduce quality. Therefore, a sensitive freshness detection method for long‐term paddy storage is required.

Findings

This study stored five varieties of Chinese paddy at 4°C, 15°C, 20°C, or 35°C for 10 months, and then analyzed their solvent retention capacity (SRC), freshness index, contents of fatty acids, amylose, protein and soluble amino acids, and their thermal and thermomechanical properties. The results show that the SRC values in water, 5% NaHCO3, 5% lactic acid, and 50% sucrose solution decreased with increases in storage temperature and duration, with no differences among the five varieties. The four SRC values were negatively correlated with an existing freshness index (D615–D690), which could not distinguish between the effects of storage temperature and duration. With the SRC values for newly harvested paddy stored at 4°C used as a reference, the mean and accumulated SRC reductions were found to increase with storage temperature and duration. A protocol for rice freshness detection was developed based on these four SRC values.

Conclusion

Paddy with a mean SRC reduction of ≤25% is eligible for preservation, that with a mean of 25%–30% is slightly ineligible for preservation, and that with a mean of >30% is unfit for preservation. If the sum of the four SRC reductions is ≤100%, the paddy is eligible for preservation, a sum of 100%–120% indicates that it is slightly ineligible for preservation, and a sum >120% indicates that it is unfit for preservation.

Significance and novelty

This novel method based on SRC values provides an improved way to assess the freshness of stored rice.
A dynamic sample augmentation Kriging metamodeling method for industrial residue hydrogenation process
Authors: Wang Yalin , Yi Kemin , Liu Chenliang , Wang Kai , Yuan Xiaofeng
Published: December 2021

Residue hydrogenation process (RHP) plays an important role in efficient utilization of heavy oil resources. The high‐fidelity model of RHP is so complex that its optimization cost is expensive and even intractable. Furthermore, in the actual industrial processes, due to the low sampling frequencies of some sensors, only a few sampling points can be obtained with some missing values. The insufficient samples can directly affect the performance of the final model. Therefore, a new adaptive dynamic sampling (ADS) method for Kriging metamodeling is proposed. Based on a small number of valid industrial sample points, the proposed method adaptively obtains key information sampling points and selectively adds key information sampling points to update the model. First, the difference maximization strategy and the outlier distance strategy are proposed to obtain new sampling points with both global and regionalized information. Then, the new key points are used to iteratively update the Kriging predictor to obtain satisfactory accuracy. Finally, the calculation result of benchmark cases and two actual experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed method for constructing surrogate models of complex industrial processes.
A Glass Facade with prestressed Carbon Cables
Authors: Schlaich Mike , Burghartz Anne K.
Published: December 2021

Carbon fibers are especially well suited for tensile structures. The potential of this high‐performance material can be fully leveraged in orthogonally loaded prestressed cable‐net glass facades. Based on many years of experience with steel cable‐net facades the first carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) cable‐net facade was developed. The load bearing structure of this new facade type consists of a net of thin CFRP tensile elements, which are located in the same plane as the glazing and are hidden in the joints between the individual glass panels. In this fashion, large glass facades with nearly invisibly load bearing structures become possible. In this article, the conceptual design and the structural detailing of a carbon cable‐net facade will be described, and the very promising results of a prototype test will be presented.
Analysis of residual stresses at holes near edges in tempered glass
Authors: Dix Steffen , Efferz Lena , Sperger Lukas , Schuler Christian , Feirabend Steffen
Published: December 2021

Point‐fixed glazings of tempered glass are popular in facade and roof constructions. The distances from the hole to the glass edge specified in DIN 18008 are restrictive for many designers and should be reduced from an aesthetic point of view. However, if the specified distances are not reached, only the strength of the basic glass can be applied according to the standard. In the presented paper, residual stresses at holes near the edges of tempered glass are analyzed experimentally. For this purpose, photoelastic measurements and four‐point bending tests are carried out on a series of modified standard specimens with different edge distances and hole diameters. The results of the investigation show that the depth of the residual stress zones, hole and edge, are significantly influenced by the glass thickness and the hole diameter. In addition, it was shown that the characteristic bending strength of these tempered glass panes with near‐edge holes was achieved for almost all test series. The achieved results could lead to a reduction of the edge distances of holes in tempered glass in the future standard.
Long‐term trajectories and current BMI are associated with poorer cognitive functioning in middle‐aged adults at high Alzheimer's disease risk
Authors: West Rebecca K. , Ravona‐Springer Ramit , Sharvit‐Ginon Inbal , Ganmore Ithamar , Manzali Sigalit , Tirosh Amir , Golan Sapir , Boccara Ethel , Heymann Anthony , Beeri Michal Schnaider
Published: December 2021

Introduction

We examined relationships of body mass index (BMI) with cognition in middle‐aged adults at Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk due to parental family history.

Methods

Participants are offspring of AD patients from the Israel Registry of Alzheimer's Prevention (N = 271). Linear regressions assessed associations of BMI and cognition, and whether associations differed by maternal/paternal history. Analyses of covariance examined associations of long‐term trajectories of BMI with cognition.

Results

Higher BMI was associated with worse language (P = .045). Interactions of BMI with parental history were significant for episodic memory (P = .023), language (p = .027), working memory (P = .006), global cognition (P = .008); associations were stronger among participants with maternal history. Interactions of BMI trajectories with parental history were significant for episodic memory (P = .017), language (P = .013), working memory (P = .001), global cognition (P = .005), with stronger associations for maternal history.

Discussion

Higher BMI and overweight/obese trajectories were associated with poorer cognition in adults with maternal history of AD, but not those with paternal history.
Water conservation potential of modified turf grass irrigation in urban parks of Phoenix, Arizona
Authors: Kindler Mercedes , Vivoni Enrique R. , Pérez‐Ruiz Eli R. , Wang Zhaocheng
Published: December 2021

Large amounts of water are consumed by urban parks in arid regions such that efficient irrigation practices are needed. In Phoenix, Arizona, extensive turf grass areas are supported using flood or sprinkler irrigation that also require fertilizers. Residential green waste compost has the potential to serve an alternative fertilizer if its higher costs can be offset through water conservation. In this study, we conducted an ecohydrological monitoring and modelling effort for a compost experiment in two urban parks with either flood or sprinkler irrigation. Soil moisture, evapotranspiration and turf greenness data along with a soil water balance model were used to determine if compost treated plots were different from control plots in each park. After building confidence in the model through comparisons to data, we created long‐term scenarios to explore differences between flood and sprinkler irrigation practices and analyse the effect of changes in irrigation scheduling. Multiple lines of evidence indicated that green waste compost applications did not appreciably change soil moisture or vegetation conditions in either urban park. Major differences, however, were noted between the two irrigation practices in terms of the seasonality of the soil water balance, plant water stress and the sensitivity to interannual fluctuations in precipitation. Model scenarios showed that significant irrigation reductions from 15% to 30% could be achieved, in particular with small changes in watering depths. As a result, irrigation management in urban parks can meet water conservation targets that potentially offset green waste compost costs while also benefitting the soil water balance through reductions in water losses.
The subsequent interruptive effects of pain on attention
Authors: Gong Wenxiao , Yi Bing , Liu Xiaoqian , Luo Fei
Published: December 2021

Background

Pain is known to interrupt attentional performance selectively. In a previous study, we showed that the interruptive effect of thermal pain on attention could persist up to 1500 ms after painful stimulus offset, but whether the pain modality affects this subsequent interruptive effect remains unclear.

Methods

The present study was conducted to determine the time course of the interruptive effect of electrically induced pain on orienting and executive attention using various intervals between electric stimulation and attentional tasks (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000, 1250 and 1500 ms) and three study groups (pain, non‐pain and control). We performed two separate experiments in which participants performed a spatial cue task (Experiment 1) and the Stroop task (Experiment 2). Participants in the pain and non‐pain groups received brief electric somatosensory stimulation, and those in the control group received no physical stimulus. We compared the performance of the three groups under the interstimulus interval (ISI) conditions.

Results

The impairment of orienting attention prevailed under the first six ISI conditions in the pain and non‐pain groups (F2, 63 = 5.72, p < 0.01); executive attention was not affected (F1,66 = 1.64, p = 0.20), confirming the persistence of the interruptive effect after stimulus offset.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the interruptive effect of somatic stimulation on subsequent orienting attention performance, with no effect on executive attention. These findings suggest that pain has differential effects on the components of attention, depending on its modality and salience.

Significance

This study confirmed that pain had a selective subsequent interruptive effect on attention and found that the time course of the interruption depended on the modality of pain and the component of attention.
A Stable Porphyrin Functionalized Graphite Electrode Used at the Oxygen Evolution Reaction Potential
Authors: Bussetti Gianlorenzo , Bernasconi Roberto , Filoni Claudia , Magagnin Luca , Bossi Alberto , Ciccacci Franco , Duò Lamberto
Published: December 2021

Many researches have been devoted to rechargeable power generators that can store (but also release) energy. This availability is ensured through (e. g.) the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, (i) large values of the overpotentials and (ii) a progressive detriment of the anode (graphite) electrode limit the ultimate device. In view of enhancing the electrode performances, graphite was protected by following different strategies, which oblige to follow precise preparation protocols.

Here, we prove that a thin layer of free‐base porphyrin molecules is able to protect the underneath graphite electrode from detriment even if many (about 100) electrochemical cycles are performed.
Performance Investigation of Proton‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell with Dean Flow Channels
Authors: Wei Lin , Liao Zihao , Dafalla Ahmed Mohmed , Jiang Fangming
Published: December 2021

Herein, a novel fuel cell flow field with 3π/2 radian Dean flow channels and its impact on the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells are presented. With a multidisciplinary numerical model, flow characteristics, concentration distribution, and current density contour in the fuel cell are compared between straight and Dean flow channel cases. The unstable vortices formed in the Dean flow channels are shown to enhance mass transfer of both reactants and water. As a result, although the voltage under low current density is slightly lower than that of fuel cells with straight channels, the output performance under high current density is observably improved. It is also found that the enhancement of oxygen transport with the Dean channel is more significant at relatively small cathode stoichiometry. In addition, by reducing the gas diffusion layer porosity, the membrane is kept at high humidity, yielding an improvement in power output and stability of the fuel cell at low cathode inlet pressure operation.
Taking back control over the economy: From economic populism to the economic consequences of populism
Authors: Benczes István
Published: December 2021

Economic populism was once recognized as a paradigmatic understanding of the boom‐and‐bust cycles of Latin America. By now, the concept has lost its analytical strength and academic attractiveness. Nevertheless, policy analysts cannot neglect the supply side analysis of contemporary populism, that is, what populists actually do once elected into government. Adopting and operationalizing the ideational definition of populism, the article identifies three major consequences of populist incumbency: (1) the inclination of populists to embark on redistributive policies favoring “our” people against “others,” (2) their critical attitude toward autonomous organizations, professionals, and institutions, and (3) their antagonistic relationship with the competitive market mechanism. The article demonstrates that populism is no longer about myopic and irresponsible policies; instead, populists tend to disregard the institutional constraints of economic decision making.
Origin and tectonic implication of mafic dykes: The Permian diabases in Santanghu Basin, NW China
Authors: Zhao Minru , Jiao Xin , Liu Yiqun , Zhou Dingwu , Meng Ziyuan , Yang Yiyao
Published: December 2021

The Permian mafic dykes of Santanghu Basin offer an opportunity to study the nature of mantle source and tectonic setting of the basin, as well as to provide the theoretical basis for structural transformation of East Junggar region. In this study, zircon U–Pb geochronology, mineral composition analysis, whole‐rock elemental, and Sr‐Nd isotopic geochemistry were conducted to explore the origin and evolution of the primitive magma. LA‐ICPMS zircon U–Pb dating yields ages at 269 Ma. The elemental geochemistry results suggest enrichments in Ba, Pb, and Sr but depletions in Nb, Ta, Zr, and Hf, which indicate that the magma source was influenced by fluid metasomatism. All samples show moderate initial Sr‐Nd isotope results ((87Sr/86Sr)I = 0.704299 to 0.704490 and εNd(t) = +6.16 to +6.83) and have high Sm/Yb ratios, which suggest that the diabases were derived from partial melting of 5%–7% spinel‐garnet Iherzolite lithospheric mantle. Combined with petrological, geochronological data, and the regional tectonic background, it is interpreted that the diabases from Santanghu Basin originated from lithospheric mantle metasomatized by subduction fluids under the background of intracontinental extension.
Fibrosis‐4 Index as an Independent Predictor of Mortality and Liver‐Related Outcomes in NAFLD
Authors: Vieira Barbosa Joana , Milligan Scott , Frick Andrew , Broestl Jeremy , Younossi Zobair , Afdhal Nezam H. , Lai Michelle
Published: December 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, and its prevalence continues to rise. Fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) has been shown to be a prognostic marker of liver‐related outcomes in patients with NAFLD. We analyzed data from TriNetX global federated research network, combining data on 30 million patients. Patients were categorized into three diagnostic groups: NAFLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and at risk of NASH. Primary outcome was all‐cause mortality, and secondary outcomes included progression to NASH, development of cirrhosis, end‐stage liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver transplantation. A total of 442,277 subjects (1.5% of the cohort) were assessed, and 81,108 were retained for analysis. Median follow‐up was 34.8 months (interquartile range 12.2). FIB‐4 was < 1.3 in 52.3% patients and ≥ 2.67 in 11.4% patients. In multivariate analysis, FIB‐4 ≥ 2.67 was significantly and independently associated with all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 2.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.20‐2.82, P < 0.001) as well as with progression to NASH (HR 5.78, 95% CI 4.72‐7.07, P < 0.001), cirrhosis (HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.86‐2.24, P < 0.001), end‐stage liver disease (HR 1.86, 95% CI 1.68‐2.05, P < 0.001), HCC (HR 3.66, 95% CI 2.71‐4.94, P < 0.001), and liver transplantation (HR 7.98, 95% CI 4.62‐13.79, P < 0.001). Conclusion: In a real‐world nationwide database, FIB‐4 ≥ 2.67 was a strong predictor of both all‐cause mortality and liver‐related adverse outcomes independently of the baseline diagnostic group and common risk factors. Our findings indicate that FIB‐4 could play a role as a risk‐stratification tool for a population health approach. Significant underdiagnosis of both NAFLD/NASH and NASH cirrhosis in electronic medical records was observed.
Artificial intelligence‐based correlation: Process side heat transfer coefficient for helical coils in stirred tank reactors
Authors: Moholkar Chaitanya D. , Vala Shivam V. , Mathpati Channamallikarjun S. , Joshi Aniruddha J. , Vitankar Vivek S. , Joshi Jyeshtharaj B.
Published: December 2021

Stirred tank reactor systems often employ jackets/limpets, single/multiple internal coils for heat transfer. Internal coils are used for heat removal in the case of exothermic reaction systems. The desired heat transfer area can be accurately estimated based on the overall heat transfer coefficient (HTC) considering the process side, utility side, and wall conduction resistance. For estimation of process side HTC, a large number of empirical/semi‐empirical correlations are available in the published literature. These correlations account for impeller Reynolds number, fluid Prandtl number, viscosity ratio, dimensionless geometric factors, and so forth. However, all the factors over the entire range of industrial operation do not get covered in a single study, hence the predictions may involve significant errors for industrial cases. The advanced artificial intelligence‐based techniques can provide unified correlation based on the experimental data set extracted from various investigations and the predictions can be accurate and reliable. In the present work, three techniques random forests (RF), artificial neural networks with Bayesian optimization (ANN‐BO), and support vector regression with grid search optimization (SVR‐GS) have been used with a data set of 1297 points with R2 values of 0.995, 0.972, 0.990 on the training data set and 0.962, 0.945, 0.905 respectively on the testing data set. Furthermore, the statistical measures show that RF provides a better fit as compared with other AI models, so RF is used for parametric sensitivity analysis. The permutation feature importance shows that the agitation speed, impeller dimensions, and positioning has a significant impact on the HTC.
How do children answer questions from a physically present humanoid robot?
Authors: Okanda Mako , Taniguchi Kosuke
Published: December 2021

The present study investigated whether Japanese 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐year‐old children exhibit a yes bias to questions from a physically present humanoid robot, Nao. The robot asked the children yes‐no questions about familiar and unfamiliar objects. To both types of questions, the 3‐year‐old children exhibited a yes bias while the 5‐year‐old children exhibited a nay‐saying bias to questions about unfamiliar objects. The 4‐year‐old children did not exhibit any response biases. These results were not dramatically different from children's response tendencies toward humans reported in previous studies. The results demonstrate that as children might not spontaneously discriminate a real humanoid robot from humans in social situations, they do not hesitate to answer its questions. Robot usage in education and childcare is discussed.
The effect of colchicine on mortality outcome and duration of hospital stay in patients with COVID‐19: A meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Kow Chia Siang , Lee Learn‐Han , Ramachandram Dinesh Sangarran , Hasan Syed Shahzad , Ming Long Chiau , Goh Hui Poh
Published: December 2021

Background

Overactivation of the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome can lead to severe illness in patients with coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19). The NLRP3 inhibitor, colchicine, therefore, appears to be promising for the treatment of COVID‐19.

Aims

We aimed to perform a meta‐analysis of randomized trials investigating the effect of colchicine in patients with COVID‐19.

Materials & Methods

We systematically searched electronic databases and clinical trial registries (up to October 17, 2021) for eligible studies. The outcomes of interest were all‐cause mortality and duration of hospital stay. Meta‐analysis with the random‐effects model was used to estimate the pooled odds ratio (OR) of mortality and 95% confidence interval (CI). The pooled standardized mean difference of duration of hospital stay with 95% CI between colchicine users and non‐colchicine users was estimated using Cohen's d index.

Results

The meta‐analyses revealed no significant difference in the odds of mortality (pooled OR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.53–1.07), but a significant reduction in the duration of hospital stay with the use of colchicine (pooled standardized mean difference = −0.59; 95% CI: −1.06 to −0.13).

Discussion and Conclusion

The ability of colchicine to reduce the length of stay in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 is consistent with its potential to prevent clinical deterioration via inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome. Nevertheless, such beneficial effects of colchicine did not translate into mortality benefits in patients with COVID‐19.
Applications of nanogenerators for biomedical engineering and healthcare systems
Authors: Wang Wanli , Pang Jinbo , Su Jie , Li Fujiang , Li Qiang , Wang Xiaoxiong , Wang Jingang , Ibarlucea Bergoi , Liu Xiaoyan , Li Yufen , Zhou Weijia , Wang Kai , Han Qingfang , Liu Lei , Zang Ruohan , Rümmeli Mark H. , Li Yang , Liu Hong , Hu Han , Cuniberti Gianaurelio
Published: December 2021

The dream of human beings for long living has stimulated the rapid development of biomedical and healthcare equipment. However, conventional biomedical and healthcare devices have shortcomings such as short service life, large equipment size, and high potential safety hazards. Indeed, the power supply for conventional implantable device remains predominantly batteries. The emerging nanogenerators, which harvest micro/nanomechanical energy and thermal energy from human beings and convert into electrical energy, provide an ideal solution for self‐powering of biomedical devices. The combination of nanogenerators and biomedicine has been accelerating the development of self‐powered biomedical equipment. This article first introduces the operating principle of nanogenerators and then reviews the progress of nanogenerators in biomedical applications, including power supply, smart sensing, and effective treatment. Besides, the microbial disinfection and biodegradation performances of nanogenerators have been updated. Next, the protection devices have been discussed such as face mask with air filtering function together with real‐time monitoring of human health from the respiration and heat emission. Besides, the nanogenerator devices have been categorized by the types of mechanical energy from human beings, such as the body movement, tissue and organ activities, energy from chemical reactions, and gravitational potential energy. Eventually, the challenges and future opportunities in the applications of nanogenerators are delivered in the conclusive remarks.

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Predictive value of lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio in critically Ill patients with atrial fibrillation: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Yu Yue , Wang Suyu , Wang Pei , Xu Qiumeng , Zhang Yufeng , Xiao Jian , Xue Xiaofei , Yang Qian , Xi Wang , Wang Junnan , Huang Renhong , Liu Meiyun , Wang Zhinong
Published: December 2021

Background

Inflammation plays a key role in the initiation and progression of atrial fibrillation (AF). Lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR) has been proved to be a reliable predictor of many inflammation‐associated diseases, but little data are available on the relationship between LMR and AF. We aimed to evaluate the predictive value of LMR in predicting all‐cause mortality among AF patients.

Methods

Data of patients diagnosed with AF were retrieved from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care‐III (MIMIC‐III) database. X‐tile analysis was used to calculate the optimal cutoff value for LMR. The Cox regression model was used to assess the association of LMR and 28‐day, 90‐day, and 1‐year mortality. Additionally, a propensity score matching (PSM) method was performed to minimize the impact of potential confounders.

Results

A total of 3567 patients hospitalized with AF were enrolled in this study. The X‐tile software indicated that the optimal cutoff value of LMR was 2.67. A total of 1127 pairs were generated, and all the covariates were well balanced after PSM. The Cox proportional‐hazards model showed that patients with the low LMR (≤2.67) had a higher 1‐year all‐cause mortality than those with the high LMR (>2.67) in the study cohort before PSM (HR = 1.640, 95% CI: 1.437–1.872, p < 0.001) and after PSM (HR = 1.279, 95% CI: 1.094–1.495, p = 0.002). The multivariable Cox regression analysis for 28‐day and 90‐day mortality yielded similar results.

Conclusions

The lower LMR (≤2.67) was associated with a higher risk of 28‐day, 90‐day, and 1‐year all‐cause mortality, which might serve as an independent predictor in AF patients.
An Empirical Analysis of Japan's Drug Development Lag Behind the United States
Authors: Nakamura Hiroshi , Wakutsu Naohiko , Murayama Satoshi , Suzuki Takeshi
Published: December 2021

The “drug lag” (ie, the approval lag for new drugs) hinders patients’ access to innovative new medicines. The drug lag was heavily debated in Japan from the late 2000s to the early 2010s. It consists of “development lag” (ie, the submission date lag for new drug applications) and “review lag” (ie, the difference in review periods). As the 2 lags have different causes and display significantly different recent trends in Japan, we focus on the development lag—in contrast with most previous literature—between Japan and the United States, based on a database we created for all new drugs from 2008 to 2018 using publicly available data sources. First, we found that Japan's development lag relative to the United States did not shrink in terms of the overall distribution rather than the median, which was the focus of most prior studies. Second, we examined the factors (product characteristics) that significantly affected the development lag and found that products that underwent multiregional clinical trials and those that were certified as “breakthrough therapies” in the United States had significantly shorter development lags with high robustness, whereas products receiving price premiums did not. Finally, we discussed the policy implications of these results. For instance, innovative new drugs that are presumed to receive price premiums require enhanced policy support for early application from the initial stages of clinical trials. It is also essential to promote information sharing regarding evaluations by foreign reviewing authorities for efficient use in the home country.
Diagnostic rate of autism spectrum disorder in a high‐survival cohort of children born very preterm: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nagai Yukiyo , Mizutani Yuko , Nomura Kayo , Uemura Osamu , Saitoh Shinji , Iwata Osuke
Published: December 2021

To investigate the diagnostic rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a high‐survival cohort of very preterm children, 77 infants born very preterm (<32 weeks of gestation) were assessed at age 4–6 years old using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS‐2) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM‐5). Sixteen children (20.8%) were classified as both DSM‐5‐positive ASD and ADOS‐2‐identified “autism,” which were defined as confirmed ASD in this study. Our result suggests that the prevalence of ASD in very preterm children might be much higher than reported in previous studies when all children were individually evaluated. Further studies in a large sample are required to clarify the true risk of ASD in preterm birth.
Short‐term effects of COVID‐19 lockdown on foreign direct investment: Evidence from Ecuadorian firms
Authors: Camino‐Mogro Segundo , Armijos Mary
Published: December 2021

We exploit the exogenous variation that comes from the COVID‐19 and the subsequent lockdown in Ecuador. We estimate a regression discontinuity in time (RDiT) design using official administrative FDI data from January to May 2020. We observe an overall large decrease in FDI inflows. We assess differences across FDI sources and find stronger effects coming from capital increases compared with new firm constitutions. In addition, we find that the negative effects are mostly from inflows coming from North and South American investments. We also assess whether partial reopening of activities positively affects FDI. We do not find any significant effect.
A new era of microfinance: The digital microcredit and its impact on poverty
Authors: Kandie Daniel , Islam Khan Jahirul
Published: December 2021

Instant and low‐cost access to digital microcredit attracts millions of borrowers. Using household panel data, we study the impacts of digital microcredit on poverty in Kenya and compare the impact with traditional microcredit. We employ difference‐in‐differences and propensity score matching methods and find significant negative impacts of digital loans on poverty but do not find any significant impacts of the traditional microcredit on poverty. Results indicate that relatively better‐off households have access to digital loans compared to traditional microcredit. We emphasize the policy on regulation and behavioural tools that might help to reduce the welfare‐deteriorating impact of digital microcredit.
Clinical status, biochemical profile and management of a single cohort of patients with arginase deficiency
Authors: Keshavan Nandaki , Wood Michelle , Alderson Lucy M. , Cortina‐Borja Mario , Skeath Rachel , McSweeney Mel , Dixon Marjorie , Cleary Maureen A. , Footitt Emma , Batzios Spyros
Published: December 2021

Arginase deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive urea cycle disorder (UCD) caused by mutations in the ARG1 gene encoding arginase that catalyses the hydrolysis of arginine to ornithine and urea. Patients have hyperargininaemia and progressive neurological impairment but generally suffer fewer metabolic decompensations compared to other UCDs. The objective is to describe the clinical features, biochemical profile, neuroradiological findings and experience of managing children with arginase deficiency. Twenty‐year retrospective review of patient medical records at a single metabolic centre was performed. Six patients from three unrelated families were identified. Mean age at first symptom was 3.3 (1.5–9.0) years, while mean age at diagnosis was 8.8 (0.16–15.92) years. Four patients developed spastic diplegia and two of six with spastic quadriplegia with classical features including hyperreflexia, clonus and toe walking. This resulted in gait abnormalities that have been monitored using the GAITRite system and required Achilles tendon release in five children. Generalised tonic‐clonic seizures and/or absences were present in three of six children and were controlled with anticonvulsants. All patients had moderate learning difficulties. Neuroimaging showed cerebral/cerebellar atrophy in four patients and basal ganglia abnormalities in two. Arginine levels were universally elevated throughout follow‐up despite protein restriction, essential amino acid supplementation and ammonia scavengers, and neurological outcome was generally poor. Two patients died following severe metabolic decompensation in adolescence. Children with arginase deficiency continue to present a management challenge of what appears to be an inexorable course of neurocognitive impairment. Further insight into disease mechanisms may provide insight into novel treatment strategies.
Factors affecting bighorn sheep activity at water developments in southwestern Arizona
Authors: Terry Patrick J. , Alvidrez Aaron C. , Black Christian W.
Published: December 2021

Determining the efficacy of artificial water developments for desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis mexicana) populations is an important conservation concern as projected climatic changes pose potentially severe effects to the species in the southwestern United States. We monitored daily visitation frequencies and temporal activity patterns of bighorn sheep at 20 water developments on the Barry M. Goldwater Range‐East in Arizona, USA, from January 2015 to December 2018. We evaluated the effects of weather, landscape, and interspecific presence on these data using zero‐inflated modeling and temporal activity analysis. Approximately 95% of visits by sheep occurred during summer primarily in response to relatively high temperatures and low precipitation. Conversely, sheep were nearly absent from developments during non‐summer when vegetative moisture was relatively high, especially if temperature was low and precipitation high. The frequency of visits by bighorn sheep increased when interspecifics were present owing to high use of water developments by all species during summer. Bighorn sheep altered their temporal activity to avoid the high activity periods of predators and competitors in all seasons. Water developments with terrain offering antipredator protection also had greater frequencies of visits, but these features did not affect the probability of absence. Overall, our study indicates that water developments provide hydration and thermoregulatory relief to bighorn sheep during the hot and water‐limited conditions of summer and sites lacking adequate antipredator terrain limit water development efficaciousness. We also find that temporal partition by sheep potentially reduces fitness during summer and recommend further analysis based on motion‐sensitive cameras to explore this topic.
Minerals in gastroliths and foods consumed by band‐tailed pigeons
Authors: Sanders Todd A. , Braun Clait E.
Published: December 2021

Band‐tailed pigeons (Patagioenas fasciata) congregate at and use mineral sites (mineralized water or soil) primarily within the breeding range of the Pacific Coast band‐tailed pigeon (P. f. monilis), but the Interior band‐tailed pigeon (P. f. fasciata) generally does not exhibit this behavior. Differences in supplemental minerals used between subspecies could be explained by differences in the diet (grit and foods) of these birds between their regional ranges. We necropsied 1,169 band‐tailed pigeons and sampled 35 primary foods of band‐tailed pigeons in the United States range of the Interior (AZ, CO, NM, and UT) and Pacific Coast (CA, OR, and WA) band‐tailed pigeons to evaluate regional differences in mineral and moisture in gastroliths and food items, and the association of grit with food items consumed. Grit and food types consumed by pigeons were similar between subspecies, but grit amount varied with foods consumed and food items varied with season and region in association with plant distribution and phenology. Gastroliths contained small amounts (≤3.3% each) of calcium, sodium, and potassium and were smooth and polished, indicating relatively long‐term retention and use primarily in food abrasion. Foods universally contained low amounts of sodium (0–328 ppm), moderate calcium (100–7,250 ppm), and high potassium (4,400–22,600 ppm), but varied somewhat with food type (e.g., acorns, berries, cultivated grains, pine seeds). Moisture and mineral content of grit consumed and foods used by Interior and Pacific Coast band‐tailed pigeons did not differ between their regional ranges in explaining differential use of supplemental mineral sites. Band‐tailed pigeon's use of supplemental sodium may not be necessary for survival and reproduction because Interior pigeons rarely use supplemental mineral sites unlike Pacific Coast pigeons despite similarities in moisture and mineral content of grit and foods consumed. Band‐tailed pigeons are able to concentrate sodium and calcium in crop milk to meet the nutritional needs of hatchlings despite a diet low in sodium and calcium.