bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Oyambre coastal terrace: a detailed sedimentary record of the Last Interglacial Stage in northern Iberia (Cantabrian coast, Spain)
Authors: Sainz de Murieta Elisa , Cunha Pedro P. , Cearreta Alejandro , Murray Andrew S. , Buylaert Jan‐Pieter
Published: May 2021

A detailed study is presented of a 15.3‐m‐thick Pleistocene coastal terrace located on the Cantabrian coast (northern Spain). Stratigraphic, sedimentological, topographic and micropalaeontological information is combined with a chronology based on luminescence dating to characterize the deposits. The sedimentary succession records: (i) a basal transgressive system, consisting of a wave‐cut surface covered by a lower layer of beach gravels and upper beach pebbly sands; and (ii) a thicker upper highstand system (aggrading), comprising medium to very fine aeolian sands interbedded with thin palustrine muds. Luminescence dating involved a detailed sampling strategy (36 samples and two modern analogues) and the use of both quartz optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and feldspar post‐infrared infrared stimulated luminescence single aliquot regeneration protocols; feldspar results were used to confirm the completeness of bleaching of the quartz OSL signal. The quartz OSL luminescence age–depth relationship shows significant dispersion, but nevertheless two rapid phases of deposition can be clearly identified: one at ~130 ka [Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage (MIS) 5] and one at ~100 ka (MIS 5c). The top of the succession is dated to ~70 ka. The MIS 5e marine maximum flooding surface is identified at an elevation of 6.85 m above mean seal level. This elevation provides evidence of a regional sea‐level highstand for this sector of the Cantabrian coast.
6‐Phenylhexyl silane derivatized, sputtered silicon solid phase microextraction fiber for the parts‐per‐trillion detection of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in water and baby formula
Authors: Patel Dhananjay I. , Roychowdhury Tuhin , Shah Dhruv , Jacobsen Collin , Herrington Jason S. , Hoisington Jason , Myers Colton , Salazar Bryan G. , Walker Amy V. , Bell David S. , Linford Matthew R.
Published: May 2021

We report the fabrication of 6‐phenylhexylsilane derivatized, sputtered silicon, solid phase microextraction fibers that show parts per trillion detection limits for polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and negligible carry over and phase bleed. Their fabrication involves sputtering silicon on silica fibers under various conditions. Six different fibers were evaluated by generating three different thicknesses of sputtered silicon at two different throw distances, which altered the morphologies of the silicon surfaces. All of the fibers were coated with similar thicknesses of 6‐phenylhexylsilane (ca. 2 nm). These fibers were characterized with multiple analytical techniques. The optimum fiber configuration was then used to analyze polyaromatic hydrocarbons via direct immersion, gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Our best fiber for the extraction of low molecular weight polyaromatic hydrocarbons in water had similar performance to that of a commercial fiber. However, our fiber demonstrated ca. 3 times the extraction efficiency for higher molecular weight polyaromatic hydrocarbons. In addition, it outperformed the commercial fiber by showing better linearity, repeatability, and detection limits. A method for analyzing polyaromatic hydrocarbons in baby formula was developed, which showed very good linearity (0.5–125 ppb), repeatability (2–26%), detection limits (0.12–0.81 ppb), and recoveries (103–135%). In addition, our fiber showed much less (negligible) carry over and phase bleed than the commercially available fibers.
How to improve organizational performance during Coronavirus: A serial mediation analysis of organizational learning culture with knowledge creation
Authors: Ahmad Qadri Usman , Ghani Mazuri binti abd. , Parveen Tahira , Lodhi Faizan Ahmad Khan , Khan Muhammad Waseem Jan , Gillani Syed Farhan
Published: May 2021

The novel Coronavirus (Covid‐19) crisis has dealt a severe blow to the global manufacturing industry. Simultaneously, it has paved the way for organizational learning and revision of its plans. It is, therefore, important to investigate organizational learning based on individual learning, as organizations only learn through individual learners. Based on the theories of action and dynamic theory of organizational knowledge creation (KC), this study proposes a serial mediation model where KC underlying mechanisms through organizational learning culture (OLC) such as acquisition of information (AOI), interpretation of information (IOI), behavioral and cognitive changes (BCC) have facilitated organizational performance (OP) during Covid‐19. Data have been collected from 610 randomly selected employees in the manufacturing firms of Pakistan. To test the study hypotheses, we used SPSS macro PROCESS (Model‐6 with three mediators). The study results suggest the serial mediation effect of IOI, BCC, and KC on the AOI–OP relationships under single‐, double‐, and triple‐loop learning viewpoints.
Bioactivity and corrosion behavior of magnesium barrier membranes
Authors: Hornberger Helga , Kissel Hannah , Striegl Birgit , Kronseder Matthias , Vollnhals Florian , Christiansen Silke
Published: May 2021

In the current research, magnesium and its alloys have been intensively studied as resorbable implant materials. Magnesium materials combine their good mechanical properties with bioactivity, which make them interesting for guided bone regeneration and for the application as barrier membranes. In this study, the in vitro degradation behavior of thin magnesium films was investigated in cell medium and simulated body fluid. Three methods were applied to evaluate corrosion rates: measurements of (i) the gaseous volume evolved during immersion, (ii) volume change after immersion, and (iii) polarization curves. In this comparison, measurements of H2 development in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium showed to be the most appropriate method, exhibiting a corrosion rate of 0.5 mm·year−1. Observed oxide and carbon contamination have a high impact on controlled degradation, suggesting that surface treatment of thin foils is necessary. The bioactivity test showed positive results; more detailed tests in this area are of interest.
Corrosion behavior of copper, tin, and bronze CuSn14 in acid rain solution
Authors: Martinović Ivana , Pilić Zora
Published: May 2021

The corrosion behavior of copper, tin, and bronze CuSn14 is studied in simulated acid rain (pH 4.5) by electrochemical techniques, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The potentiodynamic formation of anodic oxide film on copper and tin is described in terms of high‐field model. Cyclic voltammetry shows that dissolution of bronze is higher than of pure copper metal in acid rain. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy data reveal that oxide films formed on copper and tin have a higher resistance and suppressed diffusion process through the surface layer than the oxide film formed on bronze CuSn14 at the same conditions.
Membrane Anchored Polymers Modulate Amyloid Fibrillation
Authors: Sen Newton , Hause Gerd , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: May 2021

The nucleating role of cellular membrane components, such as lipid moieties on amyloid beta (Aβ1–40) fibrillation, has been reported in recent years. The influence of conjugates fabricated from lipid anchors (cholesterol, diacylglycerol) and hydrophilic polymers on Aβ1–40 fibrillation is reported here, aiming to understand the impact of polymers cloud point temperature (Tcp) and its hydrophobic tails on the amyloid fibrillation. Novel lipid‐polymer conjugates, consisting of poly(oligo(ethylene glycol)macrylates) and hydrophobic groups (diacylglyceryl‐, cholesteryl‐, octyl‐, decyl‐, hexadecyl‐) as anchors are synthesized using reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, allowing to tune the hydrophilic‐hydrophobic profile of the conjugates by varying both, the degree of polymerization (n) and number of ethylene glycol units (m) in their side chain. The impact of these conjugates on Aβ1–40 fibrillation is investigated via in vitro kinetic studies and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Hydrophobic lipid‐anchors are significantly delaying fibrillation (both lag‐ and half times), observing similar fibrillar structures via TEM when compared to native Aβ1–40. Other hydrophobic end groups are also delaying fibrillation of Aβ1–40, irrespective of their “n” and “m,” whereas more hydrophilic polymers (both with longer ethylene glycol‐sidechains, m = 3 for octyl, decyl and m = 5 for cholesterol) are only marginally inhibited fibrillation.
Multi‐objective optimal design and performance of magnetorheological damper
Authors: Huina Hu , Zhen Jian , XuHui Liu , XingYan Yao , Zhijuan Ding , Bin Xu , Meiling Pu
Published: May 2021

In order to solve the problems of high power consumption and low output damping force of magnetorheological dampers, the relationship model between the structural parameters and the optimization objectives of dampers is established with the low power consumption and lightweight of magnetorheological dampers. The key structural parameters of the magnetorheological damper are optimized by the multi‐objective genetic algorithm, and the optimal solution is obtained, and the optimized magnetorheological damper is tested and studied. The rationality of the selected parameters is verified by experimental study. The results show that the power consumption of magnetorheological dampers is reduced by 43 % and the damping force is increased by 30 % after optimization. There is a balance relationship between the power consumption optimization and the damping force optimization of the damper. Therefore, when finding the optimal solution, we should consider the needs of the actual situation and select the most reasonable parameters.
As outpatient services decline, telehealth rises for SMI patients
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2021

In the early months of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States, rates of outpatient health care visits declined substantially, say researchers of a new study who pointed to substantial increases in telehealth delivery for patients with schizophrenia along with decreases in visits to community mental health centers (CMHCs) and partial‐day hospitalizations.
Large wounds reconstruction of the lower extremity with combined latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap and flow‐through anterolateral thigh perforator flap transfer
Authors: He Jiqiang , Qing Liming , Wu Panfeng , Zhou Zhengbing , Yu Fang , Tang Juyu
Published: May 2021

Background

Management of large wounds of the lower extremities remains a challenge for plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Herein, a surgical technique and clinical algorithm using the combined transfer of a latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap and flow‐through anterolateral thigh (ALT) perforator flap for the treatment of extensive soft‐tissue defects is described.

Methods

From January 2012 to September 2018, 12 patients (six men and six women) aged 6–37 years, sustained injuries in road traffic accidents with large soft‐tissue defects in the lower extremities. Seven cases were Gustillo Anderson type IIIB open fractures and two cases were Gustillo Anderson type IIIC open fractures. Two wounds were located in the knee joint, four in the calf, and six in the ankle and foot. The skin defect size ranged from 25 × 20 cm2 to 36 × 25 cm2. All patients in this series underwent reconstruction using combined transfer of the LD musculocutaneous flap and flow‐through ALT perforator flap, wherein the LD was attached through its pedicle to the distal continuation of the ALT flap.

Results

The size of the flow‐through ALT perforator flaps ranged from 13.5 × 6.5 cm2 to 31 × 8.5 cm2. The size of the LD musculocutaneous skin paddle ranged from 25 × 6 cm2 to 34 × 7 cm2, and that of the muscle paddle ranged from 13 × 3.5 cm2 to 30 × 11 cm2. One patient experienced postoperative thrombosis of the venous pedicle, and the flap was salvaged after emergency re‐exploration and thrombectomy. No other complications were observed postoperatively. The mean follow‐up period was 26.8 months. All patients were able to ambulate independently at the end of the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

The combined transfer of the LD musculocutaneous flap and flow‐through ALT perforator flap ensured adequate surface coverage, making it a feasible procedure for large soft‐tissue defects.
Multiple solutions for asymptotically q‐linear (p, q)‐Laplacian problems
Authors: Colasuonno Francesca
Published: May 2021

We investigate the existence and the multiplicity of solutions of the problem

where Ω is a smooth, bounded domain of
, 1 < p < q < ∞, and the nonlinearity g behaves as uq − 1 at infinity. We use variational methods and find multiple solutions as minimax critical points of the associated energy functional. Under suitable assumptions on the nonlinearity, we cover also the resonant case.
Dielectric elastomer actuator behavior of silicone/cyanoethylsucrose composite films: Morphology and space‐charge distribution
Authors: Tamura Satoshi , Kiyono Ryotaro , Hirai Toshihiro
Published: May 2021

The composite films of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and cyanoethylsucrose (CR‐U) were prepared and investigated as an electroactive silicone actuator in the air. CR‐U is highly viscose and soluble in tetrahydrofuran (THF) and acetone (ACT). The composites showed a phase‐separation structure, in which the spherical CR‐U dispersed in the PDMS domain. The films from THF had an asymmetric cross‐sectional view, in which CR‐U large sphere dispersed with a thin skin layer of PDMS on one side. On the other hand, the films from ACT had a symmetric cross‐sectional structure, in which CR‐U small sphere dispersed uniformly without a PDMS thin skin layer. By applying DC electric field, the films from THF deformed by expanding the thin skin layer regardless of the electric field polarity. The films from ACT showed almost no deformation. The space‐charge distribution explained deformation behavior.
Does Lifestyle Intervention Improve Health of Adults with Overweight/Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes? Findings from the Look AHEAD Randomized Trial
Authors: Wing Rena R. ,   the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: May 2021

This paper reviews the main findings from the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) Trial, a randomized trial testing the long‐term health effects of intensive lifestyle interventions (ILIs) in 5,145 persons with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes. Although the primary outcome originally focused on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, secondary outcomes included a broad range of health parameters related to diabetes and obesity. As the cohort aged, study outcomes were expanded to include health problems affecting geriatric populations, such as cognitive impairment and disability.This review summarizes the history of this trial and presents findings related to a wide range of health outcomes. Studies are reviewed that showed positive impact of ILI on diabetes control and complications, depression, physical health–related quality of life, sleep apnea, incontinence, brain structure, and health care use and costs. Several composite indices were also positively impacted by ILI, including multimorbidity, geriatric syndromes, and disability‐free life years. However, there are also some important outcomes that did not show significant differences between the intervention and control, including cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, cancer, cognitive function, and cognitive impairment; for several of these nonsignificant effects, post hoc analyses suggested that there may be differences among subgroups, raising the possibility that ILI may be beneficial to some but potentially harmful to others. The only adverse effects of ILI relative to diabetes support and education were on frailty fractures and the related negative effects on body composition and bone density. Through this review, the manuscript seeks to determine whether weight loss should be encouraged in this population; given the large number of beneficial effects, relative to the small number of adverse effects, the answer appears to be yes.
Section 136 assessments in the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Sam Mary , Kelbrick Marlene
Published: May 2021

Multiple factors related to the COVID‐19 pandemic such as social isolation, economic difficulties and anxiety/uncertainty are thought to likely lead to or exacerbate stress‐related disorders and suicidality in vulnerable people, and thus may lead to a further possible increase in the use of Section 136 detention. Here, Dr Sam and Dr Kelbrick evaluate the presence of clinical record‐keeping following Section 136 Mental Health Act assessments, whether this has changed from pre‐COVID‐19, and the uptake of digital technology in conducting these assessments.
Is Parkinson's Kinetigraph useful in frail patients with Parkinson's disease?
Authors: Evans Lauren , Mohamed Biju , Thomas Chris
Published: May 2021

The use of accelerometer device technology in Parkinson's disease allows a period of continuous monitoring giving insight into disease pattern and aiding the optimisation of medication regimens. This service evaluation explores the use of such technology in a geriatrician‐led movement disorder clinic. The authors describe successful use of the Parkinson's Kinetigraph (PKG) in frail older people and discuss how frailty may have implications on the interpretation of the PKG results.
Rocket Propellant Comparison: Conventional Planetary Mixing and Resonant Acoustic Mixing
Authors: Smith Paul C. , Huf Joel P. , Williams Christopher A.
Published: May 2021

A standard HTPB/AP/Al composite rocket propellant formulation was prepared with a conventional vertical planetary action mixer and resonant acoustic mixer (RAM). Ingredients and process conditions were standardised as much as possible to facilitate a direct comparison of the two process regimes. Cured propellant specimens were characterised for sensitiveness, ballistic properties and mechanical properties at 3 temperatures (−54 °C, 25 °C and 74 °C). No significant differences were noted for sensitiveness between the planetary and RAM mixes. A slightly lower burn rate at 1000 psi (6.89 MPa) was noted for the RAM mixes. Maximum stress results at 25 °C were similar but significant differences in maximum strain and modulus were recorded. Maximum strain for the 1 Pint, 2 Gallon and RAM were 7.4 %, 9.1 % and 17.6 %, respectively. Modulus results were 26.0 MPa, 19.3 MPa and 11.1 MPa, respectively. Similar improvements in strain capability for the RAM propellant were recorded at −54 °C and 74 °C, with increases of 66 % and 117 %, respectively. A greater strain capability results from stronger interfacial adhesion between the solid fill and the binder, which is in turn generally a result of improved wetting of solid particles. This result, therefore, indicates more thorough mixing in the case of the RAM process but this requires confirmation through a more direct examination of the underlying mechanism.
Synthesis and Properties of Lead‐Free Primary Explosive: Potassium 5‐(2,2‐Diamino‐1‐nitrovinyl)tetrazolate
Authors: Yin Zhaoyang , Huang Wei , Tang Yongxing
Published: May 2021

The search for lead‐free, environmentally friendly explosives has been a highly challenging task in the field of energetic materials. Herein, an energetic salt, potassium 5‐(2,2‐diamino‐1‐nitrovinyl)tetrazolate (2) was prepared by the combination of tetrazole containing energetic anion and potassium cation with an outstanding initiating performance. It was fully characterized by IR spectrum, NMR spectrum, and elemental analysis. The structure was further determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. It exhibited high density, high heat of formation, and excellent detonation performance; In addition, the highly thermal decomposition temperature and acceptable mechanical sensitivities guaranteed its application as a next‐generation primary explosive.
Determination of the triple oxygen isotopic composition of tropospheric ozone in terminal positions using a multistep nitrite‐coated filter‐pack system
Authors: Xu Hao , Tsunogai Urumu , Nakagawa Fumiko , Li Yijun , Ito Masanori , Sato Keiichi , Tanimoto Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Rationale

The triple oxygen isotopic composition (Δ17O) of tropospheric ozone (O3) is a useful tracer for identifying the source and is essential for clarifying the atmospheric chemistry of oxidants. However, the single nitrite‐coated filter method is inaccurate owing to the nitrate blank produced through the reaction of nitrite and oxygen compounds other than O3.

Methods

A multistep nitrite‐coated filter‐pack system is newly adopted to transfer the O‐atoms in terminal positions of O3 to nitrite on each filter to determine the Δ17O of O3 in terminal positions (denoted as Δ17O(O3)term). The NO3− produced by this reaction is chemically converted into N2O, and continuous‐flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (CF‐IRMS) is used to determine the oxygen isotopic compositions.

Results

The reciprocal of the NO3− quantities on the nitrite‐coated filters in each sample showed a strong linear relationship with Δ17O of NO3−. Using the linear relation, we corrected the changes in Δ17O of NO3− on the filters. We verified the accuracy of the new method through the measurement of artificial O3 with known Δ17O(O3)term value that had been determined from the changes in Δ17O of O2. The Δ17O(O3)term of tropospheric O3 was in agreement with previous studies.

Conclusions

We accurately determined the δ18O and Δ17O values of tropospheric O3 by blank correction using our new method. Measurements of Δ17O(O3)term of the ambient troposphere showed 1.1 ± 0.7‰ diurnal variations between daytime (higher) and nighttime (lower) due likely to the formation of the temperature inversion layer at night.
Output sign‐consensus of heterogeneous multiagent systems over fixed and switching signed graphs: An observer‐based approach
Authors: Sun Zhenyu , Zhang Hongwei , Lewis Frank L.
Published: May 2021

This article studies output sign‐consensus of heterogeneous multiagent systems, that is, outputs of all agents will eventually have the same sign. Both fixed and switching signed graphs are treated. To remove the restriction that every follower node needs to know the dynamics of the leader node, a distributed observer is maintained by each follower node, such that the state and dynamics of the leader node is estimated. Moreover, the communication graph is allowed to be structurally unbalanced and time‐varying. Then distributed state feedback control law and measurement output feedback control law are designed and analyzed. Simulation examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control laws.
Recent Progress and Trend of Robot Odor Source Localization
Authors: Jing Tao , Meng Qing‐Hao , Ishida Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Accurate and prompt localization of hazardous release sources ensures a timely emergency response to potential damages. Robot odor source localization is the study of locating the release source based on mobile robots in real‐time, which has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years. This paper presents a review of this field, focusing on recent progress and development trends. Research works are grouped according to method principles, leading to four categories: reactive methods, heuristic searching methods, probabilistic inference methods, and learning methods. The odor‐source direction and distance prediction viain situsensing and developments of simulators are also listed separately for discussion. Several outlooks are highlighted at the end. Along with the developments of related fields and practical needs, we believe this field is bound to keep on flourishing in the future. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Detecting the epitranscriptome
Authors: Sarkar Anwesha , Gasperi William , Begley Ulrike , Nevins Steven , Huber Sabrina M. , Dedon Peter C. , Begley Thomas J.
Published: May 2021

RNA modifications and their corresponding epitranscriptomic writer and eraser enzymes regulate gene expression. Altered RNA modification levels, dysregulated writers, and sequence changes that disrupt epitranscriptomic marks have been linked to mitochondrial and neurological diseases, cancer, and multifactorial disorders. The detection of epitranscriptomics marks is challenging, but different next generation sequencing (NGS)‐based and mass spectrometry‐based approaches have been used to identify and quantitate the levels of individual and groups of RNA modifications. NGS and mass spectrometry‐based approaches have been coupled with chemical, antibody or enzymatic methodologies to identify modifications in most RNA species, mapped sequence contexts and demonstrated the dynamics of specific RNA modifications, as well as the collective epitranscriptome. While epitranscriptomic analysis is currently limited to basic research applications, specific approaches for the detection of individual RNA modifications and the epitranscriptome have potential biomarker applications in detecting human conditions and diseases.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems

RNA Processing > tRNA Processing

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
An Adaptive Automatic Approach to Filtering Empty Images from Camera Traps Using a Deep Learning Model
Authors: Yang Deng‐Qi , Ren Guo‐Peng , Tan Kun , Huang Zhi‐Pang , Li De‐Pin , Li Xiao‐Wei , Wang Jian‐Ming , Chen Ben‐Hui , Xiao Wen
Published: May 2021

Camera traps are widely used in wildlife surveys because they are non‐invasive, low‐cost, and highly efficient. Camera traps deployed in the wild often produce large datasets, making it increasingly difficult to manually classify images. Deep learning is a machine learning method that provides a tool to automatically identify images, but it requires labeled training samples and high‐performance servers with multiple Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). However, manually preparing large‐scale training images for training deep learning models is labor intensive, and the high‐performance servers with multiple GPUs are often not available for wildlife management agencies and field researchers. Our study explores an adaptive deep learning method to use small‐scale training sets and a commonly‐available, desktop personal computer (PC) to achieve automatic filtering of empty camera images. Our results showed that by using 29,192 training samples, the overall error, commission error, and omission error of the proposed method on a PC were 2.69%, 6.82%, and 6.45%, respectively. Moreover, the accuracy of our method can be adaptively improved on PCs in actual ecological monitoring projects, which would benefit researchers in field settings when only a PC is available. © 2021 The Wildlife Society.
Heatline visualization of natural convection heat transfer for nanofluids confined within parallelogrammic cavities in presence of discrete isoflux sources
Authors: Hussain Ahmed Hadi , Al‐Zamily Ali Meer Ali , Ali Farooq Hassan , Hussain Salam Hadi
Published: May 2021

Natural convection in a parallelogrammic enclosure filled with different types of nanofluids (Al2O3, Ag and TiO2) subjected to three discrete heated isoflux is examined numerically by using a heatlines visualization method. The position of three discrete isoflux are at left and right sidewalls remark by (λ = 0.25), while the third isoflux at a bottom wall remark by (ζ = 0.5). The top wall with the remaining regions in the bottom wall is insulated, while the remaining regions in the side walls are maintained at low temperatures. Finite element method based on a Chorin's algorithm used to solve the governing equation continuity, momentum and energy. Numerical calculations were achieved for a wide range of Rayleigh numbers (104≤Ra≤107), skew angle (−30o≤γ≤+30o), and volume fraction of nanoparticles (0≤≤0.2). The result is explained in term of stream functions, isotherms, heatfunctions, local and average Nusselt numbers. It is found that the heat transfer performance considerably improve with the supplement water of various species of nanofluid and changing skew angle. Furthermore, nine correlations are established to approximate the average Nusselt number.
Double‐diffusive convection in a porous complex‐shaped cavity suspended by nano‐encapsulated phase change materials
Authors: Aly Abdelraheem M. , Alsedais Noura
Published: May 2021

This paper simulates a double‐diffusive convection of suspended nano‐encapsulated phase change materials (NEPCM) embedded inside a porous complex‐shaped cavity. The ISPH method is employed to handle the controlling equations in dimensionless form. The complex‐shaped cavity consists of a circular cylinder mounted vertically on two rectangle shapes. Variable‐length on the left wall is maintained at a temperature and concentration higher than the on the other side of the wall. Phase changes in encapsulated nanoparticles were assessed by the heat capacity of the core and shell layers. The simulations carried out were shown in terms of the velocity field, temperature, concentration, and melting‐solidification zones below the effects of the variable hot source
, the fusion temperature and the Stefan parameter . The main finding indicated that the phase change zone follows the hot source within the cavity. The expansions of the partial hot length and the fusion temperature alter the intensity and location of the phase change zone. An augmentation in the Stefan number lowers the intensity of the phase change zone.
Modular invariant A4 models for quarks and leptons with generalized CP symmetry
Authors: Yao Chang-Yuan , Lu Jun-Nan , Ding Gui-Jun
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We perform a systematical analysis of the A4 modular models with generalized CP for the masses and flavor mixing of quarks and leptons, and the most general form of the quark and lepton mass matrices is given. The CP invariance requires all couplings real in the chosen basis and thus the vacuum expectation value of the modulus τ uniquely breaks both the modular symmetry and CP symmetry. The phenomenologically viable models with minimal number of free parameters and the results of fit are presented. We find 20 models with 7 real free parameters that can accommodate the experimental data of lepton sector. We then apply A4 modular symmetry to the quark sector to explain quark masses and CKM mixing matrix, the minimal viable quark model is found to contain 10 free real parameters. Finally, we give two predictive quark-lepton unification models which use only 16 real free parameters to explain the flavor patterns of both quarks and leptons.
Alkohol als Kulturgut – eine historisch-anthropologische und therapeutische Perspektive auf Alkoholkonsum und seine soziale Rolle in westlichen Gesellschaften
Authors: Heinz Andreas , Daedelow Laura S.
Published: May 2021

Alkohol ist die dominante Droge in westlichen Gesellschaften mit einer Geschichte, die sich vom Mittelalter über die Kolonialzeit bis in die Gegenwart zieht. Die historische Variabilität seines Konsums hat schon immer das Verständnis alkoholbezogener Probleme beeinflusst. Bis heute sind der öffentliche Diskurs über Suchterkrankungen und die Gestaltung des Versorgungssystems von Versatzstücken überholter Theorien geprägt, was zur Stigmatisierung und Diskriminierung betroffener Personen beitragen kann. Neben einem Überblick über die historische Entwicklung des Alkoholkonsums wird die soziokulturelle Diversität im Umgang und in der Einschätzung des Alkoholgebrauchs in westlichen Gesellschaften beleuchtet und ihre Relevanz für klinische Interventionen bewertet. Die Gründung einer bundesweiten Taskforce zur Gestaltung des Versorgungssystems wird empfohlen, um Kurzinterventionen und weitere wirksame Verfahren in der klinischen Praxis zu implementieren.
Genetic causes of neonatal and infantile hypercalcaemia
Authors: Gorvin Caroline M.
Published: May 2021

The causes of hypercalcaemia in the neonate and infant are varied, and often distinct from those in older children and adults. Hypercalcaemia presents clinically with a range of symptoms including failure to thrive, poor feeding, constipation, polyuria, irritability, lethargy, seizures and hypotonia. When hypercalcaemia is suspected, an accurate diagnosis will require an evaluation of potential causes (e.g. family history) and assessment for physical features (such as dysmorphology, or subcutaneous fat deposits), as well as biochemical measurements, including total and ionised serum calcium, serum phosphate, creatinine and albumin, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D metabolites and urinary calcium, phosphate and creatinine. The causes of neonatal hypercalcaemia can be classified into high or low PTH disorders. Disorders associated with high serum PTH include neonatal severe hyperparathyroidism, familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia and Jansen’s metaphyseal chondrodysplasia. Conditions associated with low serum PTH include idiopathic infantile hypercalcaemia, Williams-Beuren syndrome and inborn errors of metabolism, including hypophosphatasia. Maternal hypocalcaemia and dietary factors and several rare endocrine disorders can also influence neonatal serum calcium levels. This review will focus on the common causes of hypercalcaemia in neonates and young infants, considering maternal, dietary, and genetic causes of calcium dysregulation. The clinical presentation and treatment of patients with these disorders will be discussed.
Ivermectin effectively inhibits hepatitis E virus replication, requiring the host nuclear transport protein importin α1
Authors: Li Yunlong , Miao Zhijiang , Li Pengfei , Zhang Ruyi , Kainov Denis E. , Ma Zhongren , de Man Robert A. , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Pan Qiuwei
Published: May 2021

We show that ivermectin, an FDA-approved anti-parasitic drug, effectively inhibits infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 1 and 3 in a range of cell culture models, including hepatic and extrahepatic cells. Long-term treatment showed no clear evidence of the development of drug resistance. Gene silencing of importin-α1, a cellular target of ivermectin and a key member of the host nuclear transport complex, inhibited viral replication and largely abolished the anti-HEV effect of ivermectin.
Efficacy of fractional laser, radiofrequency and IPL rejuvenation of periorbital region
Authors: Kołodziejczak Anna , Rotsztejn Helena
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess skin elasticity, the reduction in the number and the depth of wrinkles and changes in the other skin defects (bags under the eyes, dark circles under the eyes, skin hyperpigmentation in the ageing eye area following the use of non-ablative fractional laser, bipolar radiofrequency and intense pulsed light). Moreover, the study was also comparison which device brought better results than the others. This study included 71 patients (66 women, 5 men), aged 33–63 years (the average age was 45.81 years) with skin phototypes II and III. Twenty-four patients received five treatment sessions with a 1410-nm non-ablative fractional laser in 2-week intervals, 23 patients received five treatment sessions with a bipolar radiofrequency in 1-week intervals and 24 patients received five treatment sessions with an intense pulsed light in 2-week intervals. The treatment was applied on the skin in the eye area. The Cutometer (Courage + Khazaka electronic) reference test was used as an objective method for the assessment of skin elasticity. A questionnaire was used to compare baseline state with changes that occurred after the series of treatment sessions. The results of cutometric measurements of R2, R6 and R7 parameters and the results of questionnaires indicated that non-ablative fractional laser therapy, bipolar radiofrequency and intense pulsed light improved skin elasticity. Of the three treatments, the most significant percentage improvement in the R6 parameter was demonstrated by non-ablative fractional laser therapy which gave better final results than the other methods (p < 0.0001). No other statistically significant relationships were found between RF and IPL. In the (subjective) opinion of study participants (questionnaire), all used methods resulted in the reduction of the amount and the depth of wrinkles. However, they did not observe significant impact of individual treatment method on the signs of skin ageing, including discolorations within eye area, bags (fatty hernia), dark circles (vascular/pigmentary) and oedema (predisposition to water retention). Non-ablative fractional laser therapy, bipolar radiofrequency and intense pulsed light improved skin elasticity and the reduction of wrinkles. The most significant improvement of elasticity was demonstrated by laser therapy. It seems necessary to expand the group with the effect of individual treatments against bags and dark circles under the eyes.
Prognosis of the non-ST elevation myocardial infarction complicated with early ventricular fibrillation at higher age
Authors: Skoda Réka , Bárczi György , Vágó Hajnalka , Nemes Attila , Szabó Liliána , Fülöp Gábor , Hizoh István , Domokos Dominika , Törő Klára , Dinya Elek , Merkely Béla , Becker Dávid
Published: May 2021

Early ventricular fibrillation (EVF) predicts mortality in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. Data are lacking about prognosis and management of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) EMI with EVF, especially at higher age. In the daily clinical practice, there is no clear prognosis of patients surviving EVF. The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors and factors influencing the prognosis of NSTEMI patients surviving EVF, especially at higher age. Clinical data, including 30-day and 1-year mortality of 6179 NSTEMI patients, were examined; 2.44% (n=151) survived EVF and were further analyzed using chi-square test and uni- and multivariate analyses. Patients were divided into two age groups below and above the age of 70 years. Survival time was compared with Kaplan-Meier analysis. EVF was an independent risk factor for mortality in NSTEMI patients below (HR: 2.4) and above the age of 70 (HR: 2.1). Mortality rates between the two age groups of NSTEMI patients with EVF did not differ significantly: 30-day mortality was 24% vs 40% (p=0.2709) and 1-year mortality was 39% vs 55% (p=0.2085). Additional mortality after 30 days to 1 year was 15% vs 14.6% (p=0.9728). Clinical characteristics of patients with EVF differed significantly from those without in both age groups. EVF after revascularization—within 48 h—had 11.2 OR for 30-day mortality above the age of 70. EVF in NSTEMI was an independent risk factor for mortality in both age groups. Invasive management and revascularization of NSTEMI patients with EVF is highly recommended. Closer follow-up and selection of patients (independent of age) for ICD implantation in the critical first month is essential.
The Application of ‘Elite Interviewing’ Methodology in Transdisciplinary Research: a Record of Process and Lessons Learned during a 3-Year Pilot in Urban Planetary Health Research
Authors: Scally Gabriel , Black Daniel , Pilkington Paul , Williams Ben , Ige-Elegbede Janet , Prestwood Emily
Published: May 2021

This paper sets out the rationale and process for the interviewing methodology utilized during a 3-year research pilot, ‘Moving Health Upstream in Urban Development’ (UPSTREAM). The project had two primary aims: firstly, to attempt to value economically the health cost benefits associated with the quality of urban environments and secondly, to engage with those in control of urban development in the UK in order to determine what are the barriers to and opportunities for creating healthy urban environments, including those identified through the utilisation of economic valuation. Engagement at senior level with those who have most control over key facets of planning and development implementation—such as land disposal, investment, development delivery and planning permission—was central to the approach, which encompassed the adoption of ‘elite interviewing’, a method developed in the USA in the 1950s and used in the political sciences but relatively unutilized in the health and environmental sciences [1]. Two rounds of semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 15 senior decision-makers from the UK’s main urban development delivery agencies, both public and private. The ‘elite interviewing’ approach successfully enabled the UPSTREAM project to capture and analyse the information received from the interviewees, all of whom held influential or leadership posts in organisations that are important actors in the process of planning, developing and constructing the built environment in the UK. Having academic and practitioner research leads on an equal footing created some minor tensions, but it also appeared to strengthen the rigor of the approach through a broad knowledge of context ‘in-house’. This form of co-production at times challenged academic traditions in qualitative analysis, but it also appeared to build trust with interviewees and provided greater clarity of the real-world context under investigation. Findings from this study are written up in a separate paper.
Intergroup Contact and Negative Attitudes Towards Immigrants Among Youth in Sweden: Individual and Contextual Factors
Authors: Bentsen Beint Magnus Aamodt
Published: May 2021

Negative attitudes towards out-groups have been of academic interest for many years — and even more so with the increased levels of migration to European countries in recent years. Building on insights from intergroup contact theory, this paper seeks to extend our knowledge of the association between contact and negative attitudes toward immigrants among youth in Sweden. Multiple regression analysis and fixed effects models are used to analyze a large, high-quality dataset on Swedish adolescents based on representative survey information, complemented with extensive registry data and official statistics. Our objective is to measure contact on different levels in order to better understand the importance of these different contact variables’ associations with negative attitudes. The results of the analysis indicate that high-quality contact in the form of friendship is associated with a reduction in negative attitudes among Swedish adolescents, even after controlling for background variables. Superficial forms of contact — measured on the school level — are, on the other hand, associated with an increase in negative attitudes.
Promoting university students’ well-being and studying with an acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based intervention
Authors: Katajavuori Nina , Vehkalahti Kimmo , Asikainen Henna
Published: May 2021

Students’ poor well-being is a serious problem in higher education. In part, this problem is related to the problems in studying as poorer study skills are related to poorer well-being. Both students’ study skills and their well-being should be enhanced in higher education, but effective ways to do this are needed. The aim of this study was to explore students’ experiences of an ACT-based online, 8-week course on university students’ well-being and studying. Data were collected in two ways: a) with qualitative data consisting of learning journals (n = 97) and with b) a pre- and post-questionnaire (n = 143) during the course. The students’ scores on well-being, psychological flexibility, and time and effort management skills improved, and stress levels decreased during the course. Qualitative analyses showed that the students benefited from the course in many ways, both in terms of studying and well-being; their studying and time management skills had improved and they had learnt stress management skills and how to cope with their negative thoughts. We argue that supporting students’ well-being, as well as their study skills with ACT-based course in higher education studies, can lead to more effective studying.
Verantwortung für Frieden, Freiheit und Wohlstand – außen- und sicherheitspolitische Grundsätze der CDU/CSU
Authors: Wadephul Johann David
Published: May 2021

Um die stark unter Druck geratene regel- und wertebasierte Ordnung der Welt besser zu schützen, muss sich Deutschland, die viertgrößte Wirtschaftsmacht der Welt, in der Außen- und Sicherheitspolitik stärker einbringen, seine Interessen klarer formulieren und konsequenter verfolgen. Die CDU/CSU folgt dabei einem klaren und bewährten Wertekompass: Wir bekennen uns zur EU, NATO, den Vereinten Nationen und zu multilateralem Handeln. Wir gestalten die Welt gemeinsam mit den demokratischen Rechtsstaaten der Welt, die unsere Wertepartner sind, schaffen und vertiefen Netzwerke und bauen gemeinsam Resilienzen auf.
Inca human sacrifices from the Ampato and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, Peru: new results from a bio-anthropological analysis
Authors: Socha Dagmara M. , Reinhard Johan , Perea Ruddy Chávez
Published: May 2021

One of the most important rituals in the Inca Empire was thecapacocha. It required the most prestigious sacrificial offering of male and female children and young women who were characterized by their beauty and purity. The aim of this paper is to present the results of a bio-anthropological analysis of the remains of five individuals sacrificed on the summits of Ampato and Pichu Pichu during this ritual. Various methods (bone analysis and radiography) were applied in the investigation due to the diverse states of preservation of the remains. Four individuals were in the same age category: 6–7 years old. The individual Pichu Pichu #2 was sacrificed at age 3.5 years, which makes him the youngestcapacochasacrifice currently known. Results show proper development of the victims’ bodies, the presence of stress markers related to the early childhood period, and, in the case of the Ampato boy, malformation of the cervical vertebrae. The studies of the Pichu Pichu and Ampato sacrifices confirm their widespread origins, privileged position, and high social status. They show that the victims were well-nourished and had proper body growth compared to juveniles from the lower social strata in different cemeteries in the region.
Four Responsibility Gaps with Artificial Intelligence: Why they Matter and How to Address them
Authors: Santoni de Sio Filippo , Mecacci Giulio
Published: May 2021

The notion of “responsibility gap” with artificial intelligence (AI) was originally introduced in the philosophical debate to indicate the concern that “learning automata” may make more difficult or impossible to attribute moral culpability to persons for untoward events. Building on literature in moral and legal philosophy, and ethics of technology, the paper proposes a broader and more comprehensive analysis of the responsibility gap. The responsibility gap, it is argued, is not one problem but a set of at least four interconnected problems – gaps in culpability, moral and public accountability, active responsibility—caused by different sources, some technical, other organisational, legal, ethical, and societal. Responsibility gaps may also happen with non-learning systems. The paper clarifies which aspect of AI may cause which gap in which form of responsibility, and why each of these gaps matter. It proposes a critical review of partial and non-satisfactory attempts to address the responsibility gap: those which present it as a new and intractable problem (“fatalism”), those which dismiss it as a false problem (“deflationism”), and those which reduce it to only one of its dimensions or sources and/or present it as a problem that can be solved by simply introducing new technical and/or legal tools (“solutionism”). The paper also outlines a more comprehensive approach to address the responsibility gaps with AI in their entirety, based on the idea of designing socio-technical systems for “meaningful human control", that is systems aligned with the relevant human reasons and capacities.