bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision Agriculture and Soil Health
Authors: Ackerson Jason P.
Published: August 2022

This is the final article in the Soil Health Institute’s 2022 series on Assessing Soil Health. In previous articles in this series, we covered aspects of soil carbon sampling and carbon marketplaces, provided details on the economics of soil health systems, and outlined a strategy for offering consulting services for soil health. In this article, we will discuss some of the ways precision agriculture can be used to enhance soil health. All articles in this series can be viewed online at https://bit.ly/3aLJemR. The Assessing Soil Health Series is part of a larger Soil Science Society of America webinar series produced in partnership with The Soil Health Institute and sponsored by The Walton Family Foundation. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Soil & Water Management by reading the article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
A macro‐model for describing the in‐plane seismic response of masonry‐infilled frames with sliding/flexible joints
Authors: Dhir Prateek Kumar , Tubaldi Enrico , Pantò Bartolomeo , Caliò Ivo
Published: August 2022

Masonry infill walls are among the most vulnerable components of reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures. Recently, some techniques for enhancing the performance of the infills have been proposed, aiming at improving both the global and the local behaviour of the infilled frame structure. Among the most promising ones, there are those that aim to decouple or reduce the infill‐frame interaction by means of flexible or sliding joints, relying respectively on rubber or low‐friction materials at the interface between horizontal subpanels or between the panels and the frame. Numerous models have been developed in the last decades for describing the seismic response of masonry‐infilled RC frames, but these have focused mainly on the case of traditional infills. This study aims to fill this gap by proposing a two‐dimensional macro‐element model for describing the in‐plane behaviour of RC infilled frames with flexible or sliding joints. The proposed modelling approach, implemented in OpenSees, is an extension of a discrete macro‐element previously developed for the case of traditional infill panels. It is calibrated and validated in this study against quasi‐static tests from the literature, carried out on masonry‐infilled RC frames with sliding and rubber joints. The study results show the capabilities of the proposed modelling approach to evaluate the benefits of using flexible joints in terms of minimising the negative effects of the interaction between infill and RC frame and limiting the increase of global stiffness of the system with respect to the bare frame condition.
Influence of the design objectives on the seismic performance of steel moment resisting frames retrofitted with buckling restrained braces
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Urzúa Fernando , Freddi Fabio
Published: August 2022

Buckling restrained braces (BRBs) represent an effective strategy for the seismic retrofit of existing steel moment resisting frames (MRFs), as they contribute to increasing the strength and ductility capacity of the structure. However, current design strategies do not provide recommendations on how the performance increase is achieved. Prioritising either the increase of strength or ductility capacity has an impact on the damage evolution and affects the overall performance of the structure. A low increase of strength typically requires larger exploitation of the ductility capacity (i.e., damage) of the existing structure, while a high increase of strength produces a significant increase of stiffness, which is often accompanied by an increase of the seismic demands that may limit the effectiveness of the retrofitting solution. The present study assesses the impact of these decisions on the overall performance of steel MRFs retrofitted with BRBs. For this purpose, two MRFs with several BRB retrofitting configurations are used as case study structures. Finite Element Models are built in OpenSees and assessed through Incremental Dynamic Analyses to account for the record‐to‐record variability. Fragility relationships are derived based on local Engineering Demand Parameters (EDPs) to describe structural and non‐structural damage, as well as path‐dependent damage indicators (i.e., residual drifts and cumulative ductility in BRBs). A comparison of the overall performance of the structures is carried out in terms of risk estimates for a high seismicity location.
Novel infrared puffing: Effect on physicochemical attributes of puffed rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Shavandi Mahdi , Javanmard Majid , Basiri Alireza
Published: August 2022

The effect of novel infrared (IR) puffing and various IR powers (350, 450, and 550 Watts [W]) at various distances (10, 20, and 30 cm) on physicochemical characteristics of puffed rice (puffing properties, color, total phenolic content [TPC], antioxidant activity, peroxide value, and morphology) was investigated. By reducing the distance and increasing the IR power, the volume puffing was significantly increased (p < .05), and bulk density was significantly decreased (p < .05) but there was no significant difference in the length/breadth ratio. The IR puffing effect on color, the TPC, antioxidant activity, and food compounds' analysis through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were significant (p < .05) during IR puffing. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that by increasing the IR power and decreasing the sample distance from the IR source, the size of protrusions was increased (the volume of the protrusions). The maximum increase in the protrusions size was observed in 10 cm distance and 550 W power of IR. This is the first report on the IR puffing of rice and according to the results, the IR puffing technology has a high efficiency at the rice puffing.
Does expanding access to cannabis affect traffic crashes? County‐level evidence from recreational marijuana dispensary sales in Colorado
Authors: Gunadi Christian
Published: August 2022

This article examines the effect of recreational cannabis dispensary sales on traffic crashes by employing difference‐in‐differences model that exploits the variation in the timing of recreational marijuana dispensary entry across counties within Colorado. Using marijuana‐related hospital discharge as a measure of marijuana abuse/misuse, the results indicate a sizable rise in marijuana‐related hospital discharges after the entry of retail cannabis stores. However, there is a lack of evidence that traffic crash incidents are affected by the entry. The preferred estimate suggests that, at 90% confidence level, a large increase in traffic crashes by more than 5% can be ruled out.
Evaluation of a novel SARS‐CoV‐2 rapid antigenic test diagnostic value in respiratory samples; is the reported test accuracy similar to values in the real‐world? A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hatami Hossein , Rezaeian AhmadReza
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Although reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assay was introduced as the gold standard to detect SARS‐CoV‐2, the method was known to be time‐consuming besides the requirement for an equipped laboratory. This survey aims to investigate a novel SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen test as a diagnostic tool in COVID‐19 patients to overcome these limitations in addition to evaluating COVID‐19 population characteristics.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study was carried out during the first semester of 2021, and about 1070 nasopharyngeal samples were collected to compare the E‐Health Barakat Company SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen rapid test results with RT‐PCR reports as the reference method.

Results

Totally 537 participants were included in this study for employing RT‐PCR and the antigen test sequentially. The novel antigen rapid test sensitivity is considered 21.09% in the real world, though 81% in the manufacturer's instruction has been mentioned. Moreover, the most revealed manifestations were found respiratory symptoms and fatigue sensations.

Conclusion

This study is the first one on evaluating the SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen test in our country. Although the novel antigen assay was found quick and easy to perform, the test performance was very disappointing. The extensive false‐negative results made it an inappropriate candidate for mass screening.
Interventions to increase participation of NGOs in preventive care: A scoping review
Authors: Sajadi Haniye Sadat , Ghadirian Laleh , Rajabi Fatemeh , Sayarifard Azadeh , Rostamigooran Narges , Majdzadeh Reza
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have enormous potential to effectively prevent and manage diseases; however, little research is available on interventions used to improve NGOs' participation in this area. A scoping review was conducted to identify options proposed or implemented to improve the participation of the NGOs in preventive care.

Methods

Pubmed, Web of Science, and ProQuest were extensively searched. Google Scholar was also searched to find potential studies related to the subject. Relevant keywords were used in the English language. The reference list of relevant studies was also scanned. Studies were screened with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Relevant data were then extracted. Two individuals independently screened and extracted studies. The interventions implemented or proposed to promote the participation of the NGOs in the implementation of preventive interventions were deductively identified and classified.

Results

Eighteen articles were included in our review. We identified 31 interventions and categorized them into 11 strategies, including (1) building strong collaboration among NGOs and with governments; (2) expanding networks and sustained relations among NGOs; (3) evaluating the NGOs' performance; (4) increasing intersectoral collaboration; (5) advocating for the role of NGOs; (6) supporting NGOs from the side of government; (7) empowering the abilities and capabilities of NGOs; (8) defining the precise roles and responsibilities of the parties; (9) strengthening the health system governance; (10) increasing the health literacy of the community; and (11) developing required regulations, rules, and policies. None of the interventions identified had evidence of its effectiveness.

Conclusion

The current evidence on effective interventions to strengthen NGOs' participation in implementing health care is scanty. It means there is an information gap in the effect of interventions to improve NGOs' participation in health.
Slip and temperature jump effects of MHD stagnation point flow towards a translating plate considering nonlinear radiations
Authors: Sarkar Suman , Makinde Oluwole D.
Published: August 2022

This article investigates the combined effects of nonlinear radiation and magnetic parameter under the velocity slip and temperature jump conditions on the boundary layer flow, arising in magnetohydrodynamics stagnation point flow toward a horizontal moving plate with constant velocity, . The governing mass, momentum, and energy equations are reduced into nonlinear ordinary differential equations with boundary conditions using the relevant similarity variables. The reduced boundary value problem is regulated by the magnetic parameter, slip parameter, temperature jump parameter, Prandtl number, radiation parameter, and temperature ratio parameter. In the absence of an analytic solution, the reduced equations are then demonstrated numerically using the shooting technique. The effects of parameters on the flow domain are analyzed using tables and figures. Moreover, two‐dimensional streamlines are plotted for visualizing fluid flow. It is found that the temperature decreases as the magnetic parameter, slip parameter, temperature jump parameter, and Prandtl number increase, but the opposite scenario is observed when the radiation parameter and temperature ratio parameter increase.
Estimating quantitative physiological and morphological tissue parameters of murine tumor models using hyperspectral imaging and optical profilometry
Authors: Tomanic Tadej , Rogelj Luka , Stergar Jost , Markelc Bostjan , Bozic Tim , Brezar Simona Kranjc , Sersa Gregor , Milanic Matija
Published: August 2022

Understanding tumors and their microenvironment are essential for successful and accurate disease diagnosis. Tissue physiology and morphology are altered in tumors compared to healthy tissues, and there is a need to monitor tumors and their surrounding tissues, including blood vessels, non‐invasively. This preliminary study utilizes a multimodal optical imaging system combining hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and three‐dimensional (3D) optical profilometry (OP) to capture hyperspectral images and surface shapes of subcutaneously grown murine tumor models. Hyperspectral images are corrected with 3D OP data and analyzed using the inverse‐adding doubling (IAD) method to extract tissue properties such as melanin volume fraction and oxygenation. Blood vessels are segmented using the B‐COSFIRE algorithm from oxygenation maps. From 3D OP data, tumor volumes are calculated and compared to manual measurements using a vernier caliper. Results show that tumors can be distinguished from healthy tissue based on most extracted tissue parameters (). Furthermore, blood oxygenation is 50% higher within the blood vessels than in the surrounding tissue, and tumor volumes calculated using 3D OP agree within 26% with manual measurements using a vernier caliper. Results suggest that combining HSI and OP could provide relevant quantitative information about tumors and improve the disease diagnosis.
Unraveling the enzymatic and antibacterial potential of rare halophilic actinomycetes from Algerian hypersaline wetland ecosystems
Authors: Menasria Taha , Monteoliva‐Sánchez Mercedes , Benhadj Mabrouka , Benammar Leyla , Boukoucha Mourad , Aguilera Margarita
Published: August 2022

The study aimed to isolate rare halophilic actinomycetes from hypersaline soils of Algerian inland Wetland Ecosystems “Sebkhas‐Chotts” located in arid and hot hyperarid lands with international importance under the Ramsar Convention and to explore their enzyme‐producing and antibacterial abilities. The halophilic actinomycetes were selectively isolated using agar‐rich media supplemented with 5, 10, and 15% (W/V) of total salts. Thirty‐one isolates were obtained and 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed the presence of members affiliated to rare halophilic actinobacterial genera (Actinopolyspora and Nocardiopsis) accounting for 74.19% (23 isolates out of 31) and 25.8% (8 isolates), respectively. Both phylotypes are alkalitolerant and halophilic thermotolerant actinomycetes displaying significant hydrolytic activities relative to (amylase, asparaginase, cellulase, esterase, glutaminase, inulinase, protease, pectinase, xylanase), and over 96% of tested isolates exhibited all common enzymes, mainly active at 10% of growing salt. In addition, high antibacterial activity was observed against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, and Staphylococcus aureus. The findings showed that saline wetlands ecosystems represent a rich reservoir for the isolation of significant rare halophilic actinomycetes with potential adaptive features and valuable sources for novel bioactive metabolites and biocatalysts of biotechnological interest.
Reconsideration of indications for third hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Kimura Jiro , Sui Kenta , Murokawa Takahiro , Tabuchi Motoyasu , Sakamoto Shinya , Iwata Jun , Iiyama Tatsuo , Okabayashi Takehiro
Published: August 2022

Background

It is unclear which patients with recurrence after a second hepatectomy will benefit from a third hepatectomy.

Methods

Patients who underwent hepatectomy for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) between April 2005 and July 2021 were included. Factors affecting recurrence after each hepatectomy were analyzed.

Results

Sixty‐four of the 167 patients who had recurrence after the first hepatectomy underwent a second hepatectomy. Then, 46 patients had recurrence and 18 patients did not have recurrence after the second hepatectomy. Sixteen patients who underwent a third hepatectomy had better overall survival (OS) than those who did not (52 vs. 31 months, p = 0.043). However, the multivariate analysis demonstrated that only tumor size (>5 cm) during the second hepatectomy (p = 0.022) and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) level (>50 U/ml) (p = 0.041) at recurrence after the second hepatectomy were poor prognostic factors for OS.

Conclusion

While a third hepatectomy can be performed if it is technically and oncologically appropriate, tumor size >5 cm and CA 19‐9 >50 U/ml should be considered in terms of long‐term outcomes before proceeding to surgery.
Radioluminescence imaging feasibility for robotic radiosurgery field size quality assurance
Authors: Shakarami Zahra , Broggi Sara , Vecchio Antonella Del , Fiorino Claudio , Spinelli Antonello E.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of radioluminescence imaging (RLI) as a novel 2D quality assurance (QA) dosimetry system for CyberKnife®.

Methods

We developed a field size measurement system based on a commercial complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera facing a radioluminescence screen located at the isocenter normal to the beam axis. The radioluminescence light collected by a lens was used to measure 2D dose distributions. An image transformation procedure, based on two reference phantoms, was developed to correct for projective distortion due to the angle (15°) between the optical and beam axis. Dose profiles were measured for field sizes ranging from 5 mm to 60 mm using fixed circular and iris collimators and compared against gafchromic (GC) film. The corresponding full width at half maximum (FWHM) was measured using RLI and benchmarked against GC film. A small shift in the source‐to‐surface distance (SSD) of the measurement plane was intentionally introduced to test the sensitivity of the RLI system to field size variations. To assess reproducibility, the entire RLI procedure was tested by acquiring the 60 mm circle field three times on two consecutive days.

Results

The implemented procedure for perspective image distortion correction showed improvements of up to 1 mm using the star phantom against the square phantom. The FWHM measurements using the RLI system indicated a strong agreement with GC film with maximum absolute difference equal to 0.131 mm for fixed collimators and 0.056 mm for the iris. A 2D analysis of RLI with respect to GC film showed that the differences in the central region are negligible, while small discrepancies are in the penumbra region. Changes in field sizes of 0.2 mm were detectable by RLI. Repeatability measurements of the beam FWHM have shown a standard deviation equal to 0.11 mm.

Conclusions

The first application of a RLI approach for CyberKnife® field size measurement was presented and tested. Results are in agreement with GC film measurements. Spatial resolution and immediate availability of the data indicate that RLI is a feasible technique for robotic radiosurgery QA.
Relational values of forests: Value‐conflicts between local communities and external programmes in Sulawesi
Authors: Yuliani Elizabeth L. , Moeliono Moira , Labarani Ardi , Fisher Micah R. , Tias Pisca A. , Sunderland Terry
Published: August 2022

Studies found that rapid decline of biodiversity and ecosystems globally have adversely affected an estimated 1.6 billion rural people whose livelihoods both directly and indirectly depend on forests. To halt the loss of forests and other natural ecosystems that simultaneously support rural livelihoods, various external programmes have been developed and applied, including market‐based and rights‐based approaches. However, rapid biodiversity and ecosystem decline continues, and better incentives or more secure rights have not always led to local community participation and improved livelihoods. This suggests the need to better explain local communities' motivations in nature stewardship.

We conducted a study of local communities in two villages in Sulawesi who voluntarily maintain forests but showed resistance to participation in formal Social Forestry programmes. The study aimed to identify motivations and underlying reasons of community preferences, guided by two research questions: (i) how did local people value forest landscapes? and (ii) how did those values interact with externally driven Social Forestry programmes?

We applied the Relational Values concept to understand a community's relations with the forest (or its elements) and land and identified points of value divergence. Data collection involved in‐depth semi‐structured interviews, focus group discussions framed by the principles of Appreciative Inquiry, participant observation and land use/land cover change analysis.

Our findings show that people value their forests in relation to their identity, ancestral heritage, sense of place and spiritual values. We also identified the points of value divergence and their underlying reasons of resistance towards externally driven forestry programmes. This study thus contributes to the broader conceptualisation of values in conservation and community participation by providing empirical evidence on the importance of the Relational Values framework in understanding the motivation and behaviour of nature stewardship and in the evaluation of value conflicts.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effect of γ‐ray irradiation on epoxy network polymers with different curing agents
Authors: Kishi Hajime , Arimura Ken , Idesaki Akira , Kakibe Takeshi , Matsuda Satoshi
Published: August 2022

The γ‐ray resistance of epoxy network polymers was evaluated. Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (DGEBA) was used as an epoxy oligomer, and 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM), hexahydrophthalic anhydride (HHPA), and phenolic novolac (PN) were used as curing agents. The thermally crosslinked polymers were irradiated with 0–10 MGy of γ‐rays. The crosslink density as well as the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) for the DDM‐cured and PN‐cured DGEBA resins decreased upon γ‐ray irradiation; however, the elastic modulus at room temperature and the density of the resins increased. By contrast, the Tg for the HHPA‐cured DGEBA resin increased slightly and the crosslink density decreased markedly when the specimen was irradiated with γ‐rays. Among the three cured systems, the HHPA‐cured DGEBA resin exhibited the greatest amount of gas generation during irradiation. Infrared absorption spectra revealed a decrease in the number of ester bonds and an increase in the number of aliphatic and aromatic ether bonds, suggesting that new crosslinking occurred concurrently with chain scission. Overall, among the three cured systems, the PN‐cured DGEBA resin was the most stable in terms of chemical structure and physical properties under γ‐ray irradiation.
Problem type and externalization in problem‐solving
Authors: Wang Lan , van Leeuwen Cees
Published: August 2022

We compared problem‐solving in four sets of classical insight and analytic problems in the verbal and spatial domains, and examined the impact of externalization (verbalization or sketching). In a within‐participants factorial design, we presented 24 classical insight and analytic problems, half verbal and half spatial. Participants solved these problems either while thinking aloud, while sketching, or in a baseline condition where neither was allowed. Higher solving accuracy was found in the analytic problems than in the insight ones as well as in the verbal problems than in the spatial ones. The verbal problems were also found to be solved faster than were spatial ones; in particular, verbal‐insight problems were solved faster than spatial‐insight and verbal‐analytic ones. Therefore, spatial‐insight problems stand out as particularly hard among the ones typically found in the literature. Surprisingly, no effects of externalization were found on problem‐solving speed or accuracy. We discuss the implications of our results for the theses that insight problems involve special processes.
Variability in procedure volume of physical medicine and rehabilitation residents graduating from 2014 to 2021
Authors: Silvestre Jason , Nelson Charles L. , Kalyanam Janaki , Wilson Robert H. , Thompson Terry L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Adequate exposure to commonly performed procedures during physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) residency is an important issue.

Objective

To assess temporal trends and variabilities in reported procedural volumes, including the number of residents achieving procedure minimum requirements as established by the Accredited Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) PM&R Residency Review Committee.

Design

This was a retrospective cohort study of PM&R residents graduating from 2013–2014 to 2020–2021. Descriptive statistics were calculated for tracked procedures and compared over time with analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests. Variability was calculated as the procedure volume difference between the 90th and 10th percentile groups.

Setting

ACGME‐accredited PM&R residency training programs.

Participants

A total of 3231 PM&R residents graduating from 2014 to 2021.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main outcome measures

Reported procedure volume and number of residents achieving minimum requirements.

Results

Total procedure volume increased over the study period (436 ± 225 to 523 ± 238, p = .013). The percentage of all procedures that were performed versus observed was stable over the study period (81%–77%, p = .234). Variability in total reported procedure volume remained stable over the study period. The percentage of PM&R residents not achieving minimum requirements ranged from 2% for peripheral joint injections to 22% for ultrasound in the contemporary training period.

Conclusions

The volume of reported procedures has increased along with the number of PM&R residency programs and residents. Variabilities in total reported procedure volume were stable over time, but PM&R residents struggle to obtain minimum requirements for ultrasound procedures.
A high‐efficiency adsorbent resin treated by nanosecond pulsed discharge for the removal of trace heavy metal ions in water
Authors: Wang Hong‐Li , Xu Qing‐Nan , Zhou Xiong‐Feng , Liang Jian‐Ping , Li Si‐Si , Yuan Hao , Wang Wen‐Chun , Yang De‐Zheng
Published: August 2022

In this paper, a high‐efficiency adsorbent resin is prepared by nanosecond pulsed discharge plasma to remove Cu(II), Pb(II), and Cd(II). The effects of discharge parameters, pH, and adsorbent dose on adsorption capacity of resins are evaluated. Correspondingly, the pore structure and chemical groups are analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The equilibrium adsorption capacity of modified resins for Cu(II), Pb(II), and Cd(II) can reach up to 6.84, 10.87, and 9.22 mg/g, respectively, which is increased by 62%, 49%, and 48% compared with that of the raw. The improvement of adsorption capacity is attributed to the enhancement of specific surface area and mesopores number, as well as the generation of plentiful amino and O‐containing functional groups.
An exploratory study of the dose correlation between point B and metastatic lymph nodes in three‐dimensional high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for cervical cancer
Authors: Yang Dongming , Gao Yuhua
Published: August 2022

Objective

To determine the dose correlation between point B and metastatic lymph nodes in cervical cancer treated with three‐dimensional (3D) high‐dose‐rate (HDR) brachytherapy.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted involving 30 cervical cancer patients with lymph node metastases who completed 3D HDR brachytherapy at Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute from May 2019 to November 2020. Brachytherapy was performed with a Fletcher applicator at a prescribed dose of 28 Gy/4 f. Computed tomography images of the external irradiation target were fused with delineated images of the brachytherapy target on the MIM system. The minimum dose received by 90% of the volume (D90) was read on the MIM system for all metastatic lymph nodes and the point B dose was read for the brachytherapy target area. In total, 78 metastatic lymph nodes from 30 patients with cervical cancer were included in this study, including para‐aortic, common iliac, external iliac, internal iliac, obturator, and inguinal lymph nodes. Paired t‐tests and Pearson correlation coefficient analyses were performed to examine the difference in the equivalent dose between each group of metastatic lymph nodes and point B.

Results

The mean equivalent point B dose was 6.69 ± 1.08 Gy. There were significant differences in dose between point B and the para‐aortic, common iliac, external iliac, internal iliac, and inguinal lymph nodes (p < 0.05), with a weak positive correlation (r < 0.4). There was no statistically significant difference in dose between obturator lymph nodes and point B (p = 0.3999), with a positive correlation (r = 0.65).

Conclusion

3D HDR brachytherapy contributed significantly to pelvic lymph node doses in cervical cancer patients with lymph node metastasis, but less to para‐aortic and inguinal lymph node doses. The dose at point B grossly overestimated the mean dose to pelvic lymph nodes; only the dose to obturator lymph nodes was similar to that of point B, with a slightly positive correlation.
Intrinsically Switchable Dual‐Band Scandium‐Aluminum Nitride Lamb‐Wave Filter
Authors: Mo Dicheng , Rassay Sushant , Li Chao , Tabrizian Roozbeh
Published: August 2022

A dual‐band scandium‐aluminum nitride (Sc0.28Al0.72N) Lamb‐wave bandpass filter is implemented with intrinsically configurable center frequencies at 628 MHz and 1.07 GHz. The filter is created from electrical coupling of dual‐mode resonators with complementary‐switchable operation states defined by spatial polarization tuning in ferroelectric Sc0.28Al0.72N film. The resonators are created with patterning interdigitated transducers (IDT) on the top surface and exploit the floating bottom electrode for application of low‐frequency polarization switching pulses. Switching polarization direction under consecutive electrode fingers in unified and alternating directions results in excitation of Lamb modes with different wavelengths equal and twice the IDT pitch size, with a frequency ratio of ≈1.70. The intrinsically configurable dual‐band filter shows bandwidths of 11.9 MHz and 10.8 MHz, insertion losses of 2.6 and 2.8 dB, and on‐off switching isolations of 12 and 9 dB, when operating at 628 MHz and 1.07 GHz, respectively. The intrinsic configuration of center frequency, enabled by ferroelectric polarization switching, highlights the potential of dual‐band scandium‐aluminum nitride Lamb‐wave filters for creation of compact multifrequency spectral processors.
Are economic arguments against immigration missing the boat? The fiscal effects of the Mariel Boatlift
Authors: Yao Lili , Bolen J. Brandon , Williamson Claudia R.
Published: August 2022

Opponents of migration argue that natives bear the fiscal costs of immigration. Estimates suggest the long‐run fiscal effect of immigration for local governments is negative, largely due to the costs of educating immigrant children. We test whether migration affects local government fiscal outcomes using a synthetic control method and the 1980 Mariel Boatlift as a natural experiment. We find no effect of the mass influx of migrants to Miami on various fiscal outcome measures, suggesting concerns over the fiscal effects of immigration are “missing the boat.”
A new cyclic model for FRP‐confined rubberized concrete
Authors: Raffoul Samar , Margarit David Escolano , Garcia Reyes , Guadagnini Maurizio , Pilakoutas Kypros
Published: August 2022

This article proposes a new constitutive model for the cyclic behavior of rubberized concrete confined with fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets. The model is calibrated with experimental results from 18 confined rubberized concrete (CRuC) cylinders tested in cyclic compression. The cylinders had 60% total aggregate volume replacement with recycled tyre rubber. Parameters investigated include the type of confining material (Carbon or Aramid FRP) and number of layers (two, three, or four). The results indicate that using FRP confinement leads to a strong (up to 100 MPa) and highly deformable (axial strains up to 7%) rubberized concrete that can be used in structural applications. The proposed constitutive model predicts accurately the material response under cyclic loading and can thus be used for design/analysis of highly deformable components made of FRP CRuC. This article contributes toward the development of advanced constitutive models for FRP CRuC, thus promoting the wider use of recycled materials in construction industry.
Developing instructional materials for English learners in the content areas: An illustration of traditional and contemporary materials in science education
Authors: Grapin Scott E. , Haas Alison , Llosa Lorena , Lee Okhee
Published: August 2022

Research on TESOL materials development has focused primarily on instructional materials for contexts in which students are learning English separate from academic content (e.g., science, mathematics). This research could benefit from expansion given the increasing number of contexts in which students are learning content and English language simultaneously. In U.S. K–12 education specifically, a fast‐growing population of English learners (ELs) is expected to achieve academically rigorous content standards that reflect new ways of thinking about content, language, and their integration. Thus, developing instructional materials based on the standards has necessitated shifts from traditional to contemporary approaches. The purpose of this article is to illustrate how instructional materials for ELs in the content areas have evolved over time. After describing conceptual shifts in the fields of content area education and language education that underpin the evolution of instructional materials, the researchers present traditional and contemporary elementary science units. Then, they analyze the units in relation to key features of traditional and contemporary materials for ELs in the content areas. Finally, they discuss how materials development in content learning contexts could expand the scope of TESOL materials development by providing a fresh perspective on ongoing debates and tensions in this vibrant research area.
Abundance and distribution of ruffed grouse Bonasa umbellus at the southern periphery of the range
Authors: Lewis William B. , Chandler Richard B. , Delancey Clayton D. , Rushton Emily , Wann Gregory T. , McConnell Mark D. , Martin James A.
Published: August 2022

Peripheral populations of ruffed grouse Bonasa umbellus at the trailing edge of their range are likely to be at risk of population declines and potential extirpation from continued climate and habitat change. Accurate estimates of abundance and distribution are needed for peripheral populations to inform management decisions. We show that ruffed grouse density at the southern periphery of their range is much lower than in areas farther north. We surveyed the abundance of drumming male grouse across northern Georgia during the springs of 2020–2021 by performing roadside point counts at 634 survey points. We used hierarchical distance sampling models to predict grouse abundance across north Georgia and model spatial variation in density. We estimated population size to be 2671 ruffed grouse in Georgia (95% confidence interval 678–11 084). Mean grouse density was 0.003 drumming males/ha (SD = 0.006), with the highest density centered in the high‐elevation mountains. Uncertainty around abundance estimates was high, in part due to low precision when estimating availability. Low detectability and precision are likely to be common issues when surveying low‐abundance populations, as often occurs at range peripheries. We suggest that abundance estimation could be improved by integrating alternate methods, such as automated recording units, into existing monitoring protocols.
New formulation of non-relativistic string in AdS5 × S5
Authors: Klusoň J.
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We study non-relativistic limit of AdS5× S5 background and determine corresponding Newton-Cartan fields. We also find canonical form of this new formulation of non-relativistic string in this background and discuss its formulation in the uniform light-cone gauge.
Comments on holographic level/rank dualities
Authors: Argurio Riccardo , Caddeo Alessio
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We investigate a holographic realization in Type-IIB string theory of pure Chern-Simons theories, and focus on the level/rank dualities that they enjoy. The level/rank duality is established between the boundary theory, engineered utilizing D3-branes compactified on a S1, and the theory on probe D7-branes located at a specific bulk location. Paying attention to the boundary conditions imposed on the Ramond-Ramond (RR) two- and six-forms, we show that holography precisely reproduces several different level/rank dual pairs. The SL(2,Z) action relating all these theories is realized through the SL(2,Z) electric/magnetic duality involving the RR potentials.
A new space of generalised functions with bounded variation motivated by fracture mechanics
Authors: Dal Maso Gianni , Toader Rodica
Published: August 2022

We introduce a new space of generalised functions with bounded variation to prove the existence of a solution to a minimum problem that arises in the variational approach to fracture mechanics in elastoplastic materials. We study the fine properties of the functions belonging to this space and prove a compactness result. In order to use the Direct Method of the Calculus of Variations we prove a lower semicontinuity result for the functional occurring in this minimum problem. Moreover, we adapt a nontrivial argument introduced by Friedrich to show that every minimizing sequence can be modified to obtain a new minimizing sequence that satisfies the hypotheses of our compactness result.
Acetabular orientation in triple pelvic osteotomy: is intraoperative fluoroscopy reliable?
Authors: Dornacher Daniel , Sgroi Mirco , Freitag Tobias , Reichel Heiko , Lutz Bernd
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In pelvic osteotomies, unfavorable balancing of the anterior and posterior acetabular wall can affect the longevity of the natural joint. This raises the question, whether intraoperative fluoroscopy is sufficiently accurate. The objective was to assess the correlation between acetabular parameters [lateral center edge angle (LCEA), acetabular index (AI), anterior wall index (AWI), posterior wall index (PWI)] acquired on intraoperative fluoroscopic images and postoperative pelvic radiographs and to analyze intra- and interobserver reliability of these parameters.

Methods

A retrospective examination was conducted on 206 consecutive cases (176 patients) after triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO). Every patient received a pre- and postoperative pelvic radiograph in supine position in exactly the same technique. A highly standardized surgical sequence allowed consistent intraoperative fluoroscopic imaging. LCAE, AI, PWI and AWI were measured by an experienced orthopedic surgeon and an orthopedic surgeon in training. Statistics comprised a priori power analysis, Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

A total of 165 cases were included. ICC between the parameters of the fluoroscopic images and postoperative radiographs was for LCEA: 0.935, AI: 0.936, AWI: 0.725 and PWI: 0.878. Intraobserver ICC for all parameters ranged from 0.953 to 0.989, interobserver ICC from 0.798 to 0.968, respectively.

Conclusion

In the surgical treatment of hip dysplasia by means of TPO, intraoperative fluoroscopic imaging has proven to be reliable and accurate. Intraobserver correlation was excellent for all parameters. The correlation between the intraoperative fluoroscopic images and postoperative radiographs ranged from good to excellent, with the lowest values for the acetabular wall indices (AWI and PWI).
Predictors of vaccine hesitancy during the COVID-19 pandemic in Austria
Authors: Till Benedikt , Niederkrotenthaler Thomas
Published: August 2022

Background

Unwillingness to get vaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a major barrier in managing the pandemic. Previous studies have explored predictors of hesitancy to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but evidence on these predictors was partly mixed, and the number of assessed predictors was often limited. This study aimed to explore a wide range of potential predictors of vaccine hesitancy in a population-based cross-sectional study.

Methods

We assessed associations of vaccine hesitancy with individuals’ fears about the future, social media use, and sociodemographics in a hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Data were collected via online questionnaires in a population-based cross-sectional study with 4018 respondents representative of the Austrian adult population between October and December 2020.

Results

Vaccine hesitancy was predicted by freedom-related fears (i.e., fears regarding the political situation, particularly loss of personal freedoms), but were negatively associated with health-related fears (i.e., fears about physical or mental health) and society-related fears (i.e., fears regarding societal issues such as solidarity, distance learning, and isolation). Social media use as well as female gender, younger age, lower education, lower income, and living in rural regions were further predictors of vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusion

The study confirms that public health efforts targeting unvaccinated persons need to address freedom-related fears and social media discourse in order to improve vaccine uptake in the population. Particularly individuals in socially and economically disadvantaged groups and social media users need to be targeted to reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Smartphone-based digital image colorimetry for the determination of vancomycin in drugs
Authors: Mermer Karolina , Paluch Justyna , Kozak Joanna
Published: August 2022

A simple smartphone-based digital image colorimetry is proposed for the determination of vancomycin in drugs. The analytical method relied on the reaction of vancomycin with copper(II) in ethanol–water medium with pH 4.3. The reaction resulted in the formation of a blue–grey complex, presenting an absorption maximum at 555 nm. A mobile application was used for smartphone-based analysis to decompose the individual channels of the colour model representations. The determination was performed using three smartphones followed by a comparison of the outcomes with spectrophotometric measurements. The most optimal analytical parameters were achieved for the H channel. The linear ranges obtained for the smartphone-based method proved to be comparable to the spectrophotometric range of 0.044–1.500 g dm−3 and were 0.049–1.500 g dm−3, 0.057–1.500 g dm−3, and 0.040–1.500 g dm−3 for Smartphones 1–3, respectively. Moreover, the determined coefficients of variance (CV, n = 9) and limits of detection (LOD) were 2.3% and 0.015 g dm−3, 6.2% and 0.017 g dm−3, and 2.5% and 0.012 g dm−3, respectively. Whereas for spectrophotometry, the obtained precision, CV was of 0.9% and a LOD of 0.013 g dm−3. The accuracy of the method was verified using model samples, generally the results were obtained with accuracy better than 10.9% (relative error). The method was applied to the determination of vancomycin in drugs. The results obtained by smartphone-based colorimetry did not differ from the expected values for more than 2.6%, were consistent with each other and with the results of spectrophotometric determinations.

Graphical abstract
Education of complementary and alternative medicine in adult education centers in Germany: a web-based survey
Authors: Ott Kai-Uwe , Keinki Christian , Kaesmann Lukas , Huebner Jutta
Published: August 2022

Background

Adult education centers are an important part of health education worldwide. Our aim was to evaluate the courses offered by German adult education centers with regard to complementary medicine and nutrition.

Methods

A systematic web-based search was done for the websites of German adult education centers and courses were analyzed considering topics, scientific soundness, and qualification of instructors.

Results

Our search revealed 502 courses, 360 (71.7%) related to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and 176 courses on nutrition (35.1%). CAM courses most often presented methods with a focus on traditional Eastern medicine with yoga and similar mind–body practices (41.9%), traditional Chinese medicine (TCM; 13.3%), and ayurvedic medicine (11.4%). Content concerning nutrition mainly included controversial fasting methods like alkaline fasting, detox diets, and therapeutic fasting (43.8%), as well as Eastern traditional diets from TCM and ayurveda (21.7%). Most of the courses were given by non-medical practitioners (NMPs; 36.4%), while only very few physicians were engaged.

Conclusion

There are substantial doubts on the scientific background of many courses offered for lay adult health education. Besides direct misinformation, many courses reinforce alternative and non-evidence-based notions in society. Adult education centers should reconsider the topics of their courses as well as the professional qualifications of the instructors.
Implementation Science for the Prevention and Treatment of HIV among Adolescents and Young Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Vorkoper Susan , Tahlil Kadija M. , Sam-Agudu Nadia A. , Tucker Joseph D. , Livinski Alicia A. , Fernando Frances , Sturke Rachel
Published: August 2022

Despite many evidence-based adolescent and young adult (AYA) HIV interventions, few are implemented at scale in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A growing implementation science literature provides important context for scaling up AYA HIV interventions in this high HIV-burden region. This scoping review examined the use of implementation research in AYA HIV studies conducted in SSA. We searched five databases and included articles which focused on AYA (10–24 years old), addressed HIV prevention or treatment, were conducted exclusively in SSA countries, and included an implementation science outcome. We included 44 articles in 13 SSA countries. Most were in East (52.3%) and South Africa (27.3%), and half focused exclusively on HIV prevention components of the care continuum. Acceptability and feasibility were the most cited implementation science outcomes. Only four articles used an established implementation science framework. The findings informed our recommendations to guide the design, implementation, and dissemination of further studies and health policymaking.