bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do total hip arthroplasty polyethylene liners without free radicals oxidize in vivo or ex vivo?
Authors: Rowell Shannon L. , Reyes Christopher R. , Hopper Robert H. , Engh Charles A. , Muratoglu Orhun K.
Published: December 2021

Crosslinking substantially reduces the wear of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) used in total hip arthroplasty (THA) but some reports have indicated that first generation liners manufactured without antioxidants may be vulnerable to in vivo oxidation. This study evaluated maximum oxidation using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy per ASTM F2102‐06ε1 and linear head penetration using a coordinate measuring machine among 66 revision‐retrieved THA components with in vivo durations ranging from 0.02 to 24.6 years. These included 30 liners crosslinked with 5 Mrad of gamma radiation and then melted, 13 non‐crosslinked, never‐irradiated liners sterilized with gas plasma and 23 non‐crosslinked, never‐irradiated liners sterilized with ethylene oxide. All liners were vacuum‐sealed and stored at −20°C prior to analysis with the exception of three retrievals of each material type that were stored in air for 9.9 to 21.5 years. All 57 vacuum‐sealed and frozen retrievals demonstrated good oxidative stability with maximum oxidation indices (OIs) less than 1.0 and 75% (43/57) of these liners had maximum OIs less than 0.1. Linear penetration measurements were lower in the crosslinked liners compared to non‐crosslinked retrievals. Although instances of oxidation and embrittlement were found after ex vivo storage in air among liners that did not have free radicals at the time of implantation, in vivo oxidation does not appear to be a clinical concern through the first decade of service for crosslinked liners and at up to 25 years after surgery for non‐crosslinked liners.
Masking in murder: An exploratory study into the act of covering the victim’s face in UK homicide
Authors: Rainbow Lee , Benson Caitlin , Almond Louise , Tandy Alicia , McManus Michelle
Published: December 2021

Previous literature suggests that covering of a homicide victim's face by an offender indicates a pre‐existing relationship. Operational definitions discriminate between three forms of victim covering (i) Masking (ii) Cloaking and (iii) Concealment. 126 UK homicide cases were examined to explore whether any evidence‐based investigative inferences could be supported in cases of victim covering viewed through an instrumental/expressive framework. No statistically significant differences were found between face covering behaviour and the relationship between victim and offender, previous convictions, and offender age, although there was a high frequency of elderly female victims of masking. The findings are discussed in relation to offender‐profiling.
Machine learning algorithms for soybean yield forecasting in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Barbosa dos Santos Valter , Moreno Ferreira dos Santos Aline , da Silva Cabral de Moraes José Reinaldo , de Oliveira Vieira Igor Cristian , de Souza Rolim Glauco
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

We evaluated different machine learning (ML) models for predicting soybean productivity up to 1 month in advance for the Matopiba agricultural frontier (States of Maranhão, Tocantins, Piauí, and Bahia). We collected meteorological data on the NASA‐POWER platform and soybean yield on the SIDRA/IBGE base between 2008 and 2017. The ML models evaluated were random forest (RF), artificial neural networks, radial base support vector machines (SVM_RBF), linear model and polynomial regression. To assess the performance of the models, cross‐validation was used, obtaining the value of precision by R2, accuracy by root mean square error (RMSE), and trend by the mean error of the estimate (EME).

RESULTS

The results showed that the RF algorithm achieves the highest precision and accuracy, with R2 of 0.81, RMSE of 176.93 kg ha−1 and trend (EME) of 1.99 kg ha−1. On the other hand, the SVM_RBF algorithm showed the lowest performance, with R2 of 0.74, RMSE of 213.58 kg ha−1 and EME of −15.06 kg ha−1. The average yield values predicted by the models were within the expected range for the region, which has a historical average value of 2.730 kg ha−1.

CONCLUSION

All models had acceptable precision, accuracy and trend indices, which makes it possible to use all algorithms to be applied in the prediction of soybean crop yield, observing the particularities of the region to be studied, in addition to being a useful tool for agricultural planning and decision making in soy‐producing regions such as the Brazilian Cerrado. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Radical surgery for de novo gallbladder carcinoma—Single‐center analysis of prognostic factors and survival outcomes from an endemic region
Authors: Gupta Sameer , Prakash Puneet , Kumar Vijay , Chaturvedi Arun , Misra Sanjeev , Akhtar Naseem , Rajan Shiv , Agarwal Preeti , Smith Lynette M. , Are Chandrakanth
Published: December 2021

Background and Objective

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive malignancy where curative resection is possible in few and survival is poor. There are limited data on outcomes in patients with de novo GBC from endemic regions undergoing surgery for curative intent. We report survival outcomes in this group of patients from a region with high incidence of disease.

Methods

We reviewed the records of all GBC patients (2014–2018) and included those who underwent radical cholecystectomy (RC) for de novo GBC. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify factors influencing recurrence and survival.

Results

A total of 649 patients with GBC were evaluated for surgery and curative intent surgery was attempted in 246 (38%) patients. Of these 246 patients, RC was performed in 115 patients, with histologically confirmed de novo GBC. Locally advanced disease (≥stage IIIB) was present in 52 (45.2%) patients. Median time to recurrence and overall survival (OS) were 31 and 36 months, respectively. Lymph node positivity (p = 0.005) and grade significantly influenced OS on multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

Satisfactory survival outcomes are possible after RC for de novo GBC. Extended resections performed in high volume centers combined with appropriate adjuvant treatment can offer significant survival benefits, with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates.
A simple and effective method for identification of Fraxini Cortex from different sources by multi‐mode fingerprint combined with chemometrics
Authors: Long Huali , Yao Shuai , Tian Wenshuai , Hou Jinjun , Lei Min , Zhang Zijia , Guo Dean , Wu Wanying
Published: December 2021

Fraxini Cortex has a long history of being used as a medicinal plant in traditional Chinese medicine. However, it is challenging to differentiate and make quality evaluations for Fraxini Cortex from different origins due to their similarities in morphological features, as well as general chemical composition using traditional chemical analytical methods. In this study, a simple and effective method was developed to identify Fraxini Cortex from different origins by multi‐mode fingerprint combined with chemometrics. Digital images of the high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography profiles were converted to grayscale intensity, and the common patterns of high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography fingerprints were generated with ChemPattern software. Authentication and quality assessment were analyzed by similarity analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and multivariate analysis of variance. The ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprints were analyzed by similarity analysis, principal component analysis, and orthogonal partial least square‐discriminant analysis. When combined with chemometrics, high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography and ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint provided a simple and effective method to evaluate the comprehensive quality of Fraxini Cortex, and to distinguish its two original medicinal materials (Fraxinus chinensis Roxb. and Fraxinus rhynchophylla Hance.) recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopeia and its three adulterants (Fraxinus mandschurica Rupr., Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh., and Juglans mandshurica Maxim.). A similar workflow may be applied to establish a differentiation method for other medicinal and economic plants.
The role of organizational culture in health information technology implementations: A scoping review
Authors: Rajamani Sripriya , Hultman Gretchen , Bakker Caitlin , Melton Genevieve B.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The exponential growth in health information technology (HIT) presents an immense opportunity for facilitating the data‐to‐knowledge‐to‐performance loop which supports learning health systems. This scoping review addresses the gap in knowledge around HIT implementation contextual factors such as organizational culture and provides a current state assessment.

Methods

A search of 13 databases guided by Arskey and O'Malley's framework identified content on HIT implementations and organizational culture. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to assess culture and to develop review criteria. Culture stress, culture effort, implementation climate, learning climate, readiness for implementation, leadership engagement, and available resources were the constructs examined. Rayyan and Qualtrics were used for screening and data extraction.

Results

Fifty two studies included were mainly conducted in Academic Health Centers (n = 18, 35%) and at urban locations (n = 50, 96%). Interviews frequently used for data collection (n = 26, 50%) and guided by multiple frameworks (n = 34). Studies mostly focused on EHR implementations (n = 23, 44%) followed by clinical decision support (n = 9, 17%). About two‐thirds (n = 34, 65%) reflected culture stress theme and 62% (21 of 34) acknowledged it as a barrier. Culture effort identified in 27 studies and was a facilitator in most (78%, 21 of 27). Leadership engagement theme in majority studies (71%, n = 37), with 35% (n = 13) noting it as a facilitator. Eighty percent (42 studies) noted available resources, 12 of which identified this as barrier to successful implementation.

Conclusions

It is vital to determine the culture and other CFIR inner setting constructs that are significant to HIT implementation as facilitators or barriers. This scoping review presents a limited number of empirical studies in this topic highlighting the need for additional research to quantify the effects of culture. This will help build evidence and best practices that facilitate HIT implementations and hence serve as a platform to support robust learning health systems.
Corrosion protection properties of poly(4‐vinyl pyridine) containing multilayer polymeric coatings on magnesium alloy AZ31
Authors: Das Chayanika , Kastania Eleni , Witt Julia , Ozcan Ozlem
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study is to develop polymeric thin films for corrosion protection of magnesium alloy AZ31. As polymer matrix, poly(4‐vinyl pyridine) (P4VP) is selected due to its semiconducting properties and protonic conductivity. Polyacrylic acid is tested as crosslinking layers to improve interfacial adhesion. The macroscopic corrosion properties of the multilayer coatings are investigated by means of electrochemical methods, such as linear sweep voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), in corrosive media simulating technical and biomedical applications. It is demonstrated that thin multilayer coatings can suppress the corrosion rates of magnesium alloys. To our best knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the use of P4VP as a conducting polymer film with protonic conductivity for corrosion protection of magnesium alloys.
Magnetic Properties of a Polyfluorene Derivative Metallopolymer Containing Neodymium Ions
Authors: Santana Alisson J. , Turchetti Denis A. , Zanlorenzi Cristiano , dos Santos José C. R. , de Oliveira Adilson. J. A. , Akcelrud Leni
Published: December 2021

The magnetic properties of a polyfluorene derivative, {Poly[9,9’‐dihexylfluorene‐2,7‐yl)‐3,8‐(1,10‐phenanthroline)]} and its complexes with neodymium ions are explored and discussed in the light of the macromolecular configuration and photophysical properties. The pristine noncomplexed material is a diamagnetic material, and the introduction of Nd atoms in the polymer leads to a paramagnetic behavior over the entire temperature range. The prominent role of the morphology is demonstrated by comparison of two forms, with different ligands to the metal: one with bulky β‐diketone groups and another with small chorine as ligands. The large groups hinder interchain interaction, whereas the smaller salt forms favored interchain π‐stacking, providing a better interaction of the magnetic field with the polymer backbone, resulting in enhanced magnetic properties. The form with the β‐diketone groups exhibits a paramagnetic behavior whereas the one in the salt form presents ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature. This contribution brings solid confirmation to the importance of interchain interaction in the magnetic properties of conjugated polymers, opening a new way to the obtainment of magnetic conjugated polymers.
Technical note: Advancing size‐specific dose estimates in CT examinations: Dose estimates at longitudinal positions of scans
Authors: Li Xinhua , Marschall Theodore A. , Yang Kai , Liu Bob
Published: December 2021

Purpose

American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) (Report 204) introduced the size‐specific dose estimate (SSDE) for the average dose to the center of a fixed‐mA scan. International standards establish a method that CT manufacturers and radiation dose index monitoring software may use to calculate SSDE(z) at longitudinal positions of scans with fixed mA or tube current modulation, and its scan range average . We sought to test how accurate SSDE(z) is in tracking the average dose to the transverse slab of an axial image slice (Dslice), evaluated with Monte Carlo calculation, in the chest and abdominopelvic examinations.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 65 consecutive adult patients undergoing whole‐body CT for transcatheter aortic valve implantation planning. Examination parameters (kV, mA, CTDIvol) were extracted from the DICOM headers. Patient water equivalent diameter DW(z) was calculated at each image slice, excluding the patient table. A previously validated Monte Carlo simulation (Geant4) program was used to evaluate Dslice from the chest and abdominopelvic examinations. Alternatively, SSDE(z) was calculated at each slice. The results of the two methods were compared with descriptive statistical outcomes (R, version 4.0.2).

Results

In chest and abdominopelvic CT examinations, Dslice largely changed with anatomic location and uniformly fell off toward scan range edges. Scan range averages and were consistent within 2.5%–3.1% (median) and 6.3%–10.4% (maximum) in two examinations. On individual image slices, SSDE(z) could be lower or higher than Dslice, with deviation ranging from −18.3% to 85% in two edges (2 × 5 cm) of scan range and from −35.2% to 18.7% in the remaining central region of the scan.

Conclusion

This study provides critical inputs for quality assurance programs. is useful to track the average dose of all image slices, but further development may be useful for tracking patient dose at the level of individual image slices, especially near a scan range edge.
Commissioning of carbon‐ion radiotherapy for moving targets at the Osaka Heavy‐Ion Therapy Center
Authors: Hamatani Noriaki , Tsubouchi Toshiro , Takashina Masaaki , Yagi Masashi , Kanai Tatsuaki
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Herein, we report the methods and results of the Hitachi carbon‐ion therapy facility commissioning to determine the optimum values of the magnitude of movement and repaint number in respiratory‐gated irradiation.

Methods

A virtual‐cylinder target was created using the treatment‐planning system (VQA Plan), and measurements were performed to study the effects of respiratory movements using a two‐dimensional ionization‐chamber array detector and a phantom with movable wedge and stage. For simulations, we selected a 10 × 10 × 10 cm3 cubic irradiation pattern with a uniform physical dose and two actual cases of liver‐cancer treatments, whose prescribed doses were 60 Gy(RBE)/4 fraction (Case 1) and 60 Gy(RBE)/12 fraction (Case 2). We employed two types of repainting methods, one produced by the algorithm of VQA Plan (VQA algorithm) and the other by ideal repainting. The latter completely repeats all spots with set number of repaintings. We performed flatness calculations and gamma analysis to evaluate the effects of each condition.

Results

From the measurements, the gamma passing rates for which the criteria were 3%/3 mm exceeded 95% for displacements in the head‐to‐tail direction if the repaint number was greater than 3 and the magnitude of the residual motions was less than 5.0 mm. In simulations with the cubic irradiation pattern, the gamma passing rates (with criteria of 2%/2 mm) exceeded 95% when the magnitude of the residual motions was 3.0 mm and the repaint number was greater than 3. When the repaint number was set to 4 in the VQA with the actual liver cases, the flatness results for Case 2 was minimal. For ideal repainting, the flatness results for all ports fell within ∼3.0% even when the magnitude of the residual motions was 5.0 mm if the repaint number was 6. However, the flatness was less than 3.0% for almost all ports if the magnitude of the residual motions was less than 3.0 mm with a repaint number of 4 in case of both types of repaint methods.

Conclusions

At our facility, carbon‐ion radiotherapy can be provided safely to a moving target with residual motions of 3.0 mm magnitude and with a repaint number of 4.
An improved neuro‐adaptive‐optimal control for oscillation damping in wind‐integrated power systems
Authors: Jamsheed Faisal , Iqbal Sheikh Javed
Published: December 2021

This article proposes an improved neuro‐adaptive‐optimal control scheme, based on online system identification and simultaneous control, to replace power system stabilizer in the renewable‐energy‐penetrated power systems. A simple, linear neural identifier, with a few adjustable connection weights is used, which ensures minimal computational burden, reduced development time, and makes the controller practically realizable. An adaptive learning rate, derived using Lyapunov stability theorems, guarantees stability of convergence of the learning algorithm as well as an optimal speed of convergence. It is demonstrated that a simple linear neural identifier, which approximates a local linear model of a system, by adjustment of its parameters online, is faithfully able to track the varying dynamics of the system. Improved oscillation‐damping performance over a wide range of operating conditions and disturbances, in comparison with a well‐established IEEE‐PSS1A and fuzzy‐logic‐control‐based PSS, was validated through simulation studies on a single‐machine infinite‐bus power system and a wind‐integrated two‐area power system. The computational superiority of the proposed scheme in comparison to complex and non‐linear neural networks and fuzzy‐logic‐based control was also established. The novelty of the controller lies in its structure which, in‐spite of being purely linear, performs robustly for highly complex and non‐linear power system models.
Structural relaxation of an epoxy resin at temperatures well below Tg*
Authors: Song Hosup , Medvedev Grigori A. , Caruthers James M.
Published: December 2021

The effects of annealing a glassy polymer at temperatures well below Tg on the dynamic linear viscoelastic properties were investigated. The polymer was an epoxy thermoset with a Tg of 182°C. Specimens were annealed from 2 h to up to 600 h at temperatures from −100°C (Tg −282°C) up to Tg. At annealing temperatures just below Tg, there was no effect of annealing, and annealing at −100°C (Tg −282°C) showed no difference between 2 and 6 h annealing, although annealing effects might be seen at longer times. At temperatures between −50°C (Tg −232°C) and 170°C (Tg −12°C) the storage isotherms increased with annealing while the loss isotherms decreased. In addition, the heat capacity as measured via DSC after annealing at 50°C (Tg −132°C) and 100°C (Tg −82°C) exhibited endothermic peaks approximately 40°C above the annealing temperature. This study clearly shows that a material deep in the glassy state is not frozen, but undergoes continuing evolution. The nature of deep glass aging is different than physical aging in the Tg region, where deep in the glass the relaxation spectrum changes magnitude and shape but does not shift along the log frequency axis in contrast to physical aging in the Tg region.
Distress in hospitalized cancer patients: Associations with personality traits, clinical and psychosocial characteristics
Authors: Pichler Theresia , Marten‐Mittag Birgitt , Hermelink Kerstin , Telzerow Eva , Frank Tamara , Ackermann Ulrike , Belka Claus , Combs Stephanie E. , Gratzke Christian , Gschwend Jürgen , Harbeck Nadia , Heinemann Volker , Herkommer Kathleen , Kiechle Marion , Mahner Sven , Pigorsch Steffi , Rauch Josefine , Stief Christian , Mumm Friederike , Heußner Pia , Herschbach Peter , Dinkel Andreas
Published: December 2021

Objective

To improve allocation of psychosocial care and to provide patient‐oriented support offers, identification of determinants of elevated distress is needed. So far, there is a lack of evidence investigating the interplay between individual disposition and current clinical and psychosocial determinants of distress in the inpatient setting.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we investigated 879 inpatients with different cancer sites treated in a German Comprehensive Cancer Center. Assessment of determinants of elevated distress included sociodemographic, clinical and psychosocial characteristics as well as dimensions of personality. Multiple linear regression was applied to identify determinants of psychosocial distress.

Results

Mean age of the patients was M = 61.9 (SD = 11.8), 48.1% were women. In the multiple linear regression model younger age (β = −0.061, p = 0.033), higher neuroticism (β = 0.178, p = <0.001), having metastases (β = 0.091, p = 0.002), being in a worse physical condition (β = 0.380, p = <0.001), depressive symptoms (β = 0.270, p = <0.001), not feeling well informed about psychological support (β = 0.054, p = 0.046) and previous uptake of psychological treatment (β = 0.067, p = 0.020) showed significant associations with higher psychosocial distress. The adjusted R2 of the overall model was 0.464.

Conclusion

Controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and dispositional vulnerability, that is neuroticism, current clinical and psychosocial characteristics were still associated with hospitalized patients' psychosocial distress. Psycho‐oncologists should address both, the more transient emotional responses, such as depressive symptoms, as well as more enduring patient characteristics, like neuroticism.
Outdoor pollen concentration is not associated with exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction in children
Authors: Tikkakoski Anna P. , Karjalainen Jussi , Sipilä Kalle , Kivistö Juho E. , Kähönen Mika , Lehtimäki Lauri , Tikkakoski Antti
Published: December 2021

Background

Free running exercise test outdoors is an important method to diagnose asthma in children. However, the extent of how much exposure to pollens of outdoor air affects the results of the test is not known.

Methods

We analyzed all reliable exercise challenge tests with impulse oscillometry in children (n = 799) between January 2012 and December 2014 in Tampere University Hospital. Pollen concentrations at the time of the test were collected from the register of Biodiversity Unit of the University of Turku. We compared the frequency of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction and pollen concentrations.

Results

The analyses were restricted to birch and alder pollen as high counts of grass and mugwort pollen were so infrequent. The relative change in resistance at 5 Hz after exercise or the frequency of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction were not related to alder or birch pollen concentrations over 10 grains/m3 (p = 0.125–0.398). In logistic regression analysis comparing the effects of alder or birch pollen concentrations, immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐mediated alder or birch allergy and absolute humidity over 10 g/m3 only absolute humidity was independently associated with change in airway resistance (odds ratio [OR]: 0.32, confidence interval [CI]: 0.13–0.67, p: 0.006).

Conclusions

In our large clinical sample, outdoor air pollen concentration was not associated with the probability of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction in free running test in children while low absolute humidity was the best predictor of airway obstruction.
Excitable Madden–Julian Oscillation like behaviour of a simple model of equatorial moist dynamics results from a time step that is too large
Authors: Davison Matthew , Haynes Peter
Published: December 2021

A recent article by Vallis and Penn (2020) in this journal presented the behaviour of a simple single‐layer model of moist dynamics, identifying an “excitable” behaviour in which a feedback between condensational heating and gravity waves sustained high values of kinetic energy and, when the model was an equatorial ‐plane configuration, a sustained Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO)‐like disturbance, eastward‐propagating and including a localised region of condensational heating. Evidence is presented here that both the excitable and MJO‐like behaviours are artificial, in the sense that they result from a choice of time step that it is too large to allow a satisfactory solution of the partial differential equations defining the model.
Soil water retention curve inflection point: Insight into soil structure from percolation theory
Authors: Ghanbarian Behzad , Skaggs Todd H.
Published: December 2021

Quantifying soil structure has been a long‐standing challenge in soil physics. Among the proposed indices and parameters, slope at the inflection point of soil water retention curve has been widely used. In this short communication, we provide theoretical insights and show that under full saturation conditions, the pore‐throat radius at the inflection point (rinf) is equivalent to the critical pore‐throat radius within percolation theory. The inflection point, in fact, corresponds to a critical saturation (critical fraction of pore space) at which a sample‐spanning cluster forms and a medium starts percolating. We discuss that rinf is theoretically linked to saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), in a power‐law form within the critical path analysis framework. Using 59 soil samples from the GRIZZLY database, we show that the Ksat is correlated to the rinf, although there exists scatter in the data. Interestingly, the experimental exponent 2.219 found from the Ksat–rinf data is less than 5% greater than the estimated theoretical value 2.111 determined from the average fractal dimension of the measured soil water retention curves.
Long‐tenured independent directors and firm performance
Authors: Bonini Stefano , Deng Justin , Ferrari Mascia , John Kose , Ross David Gaddis
Published: December 2021

Research Summary

Agency perspectives suggest long‐tenured independent directors (LTIDs) may be cronies of the CEO, making their boards less effective, but we theorize that LTIDs may have particular expertise and motivation to improve board effectiveness and ultimately firm performance. We find strong support for this prediction using 15 years of data on the S&P 1,500 firms and an instrument based on director age at time of hire. We also find that an LTID adds more value to firms that are complex or mature, had more CEOs during the LTID's tenure, and have less entrenched management. Post hoc analyses of director deaths and shareholder class action lawsuits and activist motions provide additional evidence that LTIDs add value to the firms on whose boards they serve.

Managerial Summary

We study whether having a long‐tenured independent director (LTID) on the board has implications for firm performance. In general, we find that firms with an LTID perform better than firms without one. The performance benefits accrue primarily to firms that have complex operations, are in the mature stage of their lifecycle, and had more CEOs during the LTID's tenure. That said, firms with entrenched management do not benefit from having an LTID. We also find that firms with an LTID experience fewer class action lawsuits and shareholder activist motions and that the stock market reacts adversely to the death of an LTID. Overall, the evidence is that LTIDs offer valuable experience and stability to the firms on whose boards they serve.
Identifying Translocation Sites for a Climate Relict Population of Finescale Dace
Authors: Booher Evan C. J. , Walters Annika W.
Published: December 2021

Translocation is a management strategy that seeks to address threats to fish and wildlife populations by establishing new populations in ecologically suitable areas. Populations of Finescale Dace Chrosomus neogaeus in the Great Plains may benefit from translocation, as they exhibit a climate relict natural history that has led to a disjunct distribution and minimal dispersal opportunities. We assessed the translocation suitability of sites for Finescale Dace in the Belle Fourche River basin, Wyoming–South Dakota, using a ranking approach for output from multiple analyses. We used multivariate analysis to evaluate dissimilarity in fish occurrence and habitat between sites with and without Finescale Dace in contemporary surveys (2018–2019; n = 68). We further evaluated the capacity for sites to support Finescale Dace under base case and future climate change scenarios using the predicted probability of occurrence (P) from species distribution models (SDMs) fitted with basinwide fish occurrence data from surveys conducted in 2008–2019 (n = 124) and spatially continuous environmental variables, including forecasted stream temperature scenarios. Sites with Finescale Dace tended to occur close to standing waterbodies, contained emergent vegetation cover, and did not exhibit large overlap in species‐space with either native or nonnative species. Predicted P of Finescale Dace exhibited nonlinear relationships with mean August stream temperature, channel slope, and base flow index. The amount of suitable habitat (i.e., high predicted P) declined with forecasted stream warming scenarios in the SDMs. This study highlights the utility of using field observations, historical data, and forecasted climate change scenarios to assess translocation site suitability and inform management of at‐risk native fish populations, and the results may be transferable to other populations with limited data or restricted distributions.
Desymmetrisation of meso‐2,4‐Dimethyl‐8‐oxabicyclo[3.2.1]‐oct‐6‐ene‐3‐ol and its Application in Natural Product Syntheses
Authors: Tadiparthi Krishnaji , Anand Pragya , Sakirolla Raghavendra , Gupta T. Prakash , Jadhav Krishna A , Kishore Das Sukant , Singh Yadav Jhillu
Published: December 2021

The compounds containing chiral centers and different functional groups serve as magnificent building blocks for the preparation of various natural products that are having immense biological activity. “Dimethyl‐8‐oxa‐bicyclo[3.2.1]oct‐6‐en‐3‐ol” is one of the wonderful synthons to construct multiple stereo centers at a time during the asymmetric synthesis. In this account, we discuss our research efforts toward the synthesis of various simple and complex natural products from the past three decades (1995–2020) by using dimethyl‐8‐oxa‐bicyclo[3.2.1]oct‐6‐en‐3‐ol as a synthon. Moreover, the synthetic utility of this starting material was investigated and well demonstrated. Further, we executed the desymmetrization of dimethyl‐8‐oxa‐bicyclo[3.2.1]oct‐6‐en‐3‐ol by hydroboration to get different chiral centers. After obtaining the stereocenters, we could manage either the fragment, formal or total synthesis of natural products, by simple protection and deprotection sequence followed by C−C bond formation steps.
Exploring the Connection between Teacher Training and Teacher Cognitions Related to L2 Pronunciation Instruction
Authors: Kochem Tim
Published: December 2021

In recent years, research into the learning of pronunciation pedagogy and its effects on a teacher’s capacity to provide effective pronunciation instruction has been steadily growing. Nevertheless, a prominent puzzle piece still remains uncovered: the direct effect that coursework has on a trainee’s ability to deliver effective instruction. To address this gap, the current study explores the development of second language teacher cognitions and actual teaching practices in a tutoring project, which serves as the capstone assignment for a graduate course in pronunciation pedagogy. Semi‐structured interviews, stimulated recalls, written reflections, and tutoring observations were used to explore the intricate connection between training and practices. Findings suggest that controlled activities made up the majority of the trainees’ techniques. Trainees requested more in‐class practice with creating and conducting free activities, as these were viewed as the toughest technique. Also, this study found one predominant connection which the tutoring project brought to light: the trainees’ use of the communicative framework (Celce‐Murcia, Brinton, Goodwin, & Griner, 2010) as an ‘order of operations’. These results highlight the importance of training in pronunciation pedagogy which includes a hands‐on experience.
a) Switzerland: Extreme Positive Case Study (Worldwide)
Authors: García Portilla Jason
Published: December 2021

Historically, Switzerland’s population and cantonal system have been characterised by mixed denominational distribution (Roman Catholics and Protestants). Even if the two main denominations have not always coexisted harmoniously, and despite internal differences, Switzerland is nowadays the most competitive (prosperous) country worldwide with well-recognised political, economic, and social stability.

The Swiss case explored the nexuses of prosperity and of a religiously mixed society in which the Protestant Reformation played a prominent historical role in shaping federal institutions. Following the 1848 anti-clerical Constitution, many Conservative Catholics remained in mountainous and rural areas, in an attempt to keep the ancient order. The Catholic ancient order included maintaining the pervasive influence of the Roman Church-State on virtually every moral and social aspect, including education (i.e. the “maintenance of ignorance”). In turn, liberals and Protestants mostly remained in flat areas that were subsequently industrialised. Currently, the historical Protestant cantons tend to be the most competitive, and the mountainous Roman Catholic cantons the least competitive, in the Swiss Confederation. Historically mixed confessional cantons (e.g. Thurgau and St. Gallen) perform in the middle of the cantonal ranking of competitiveness (11th and 13th, respectively, out of 26 cantons). Protestantism in Switzerland may have also contributed to prosperity via democratisation, state secularism and the creation of trust and moral standards. Yet, the influence of Protestantism owes more to its accumulated historical impact on institutions than to the proportion of current followers.
Flavored leptogenesis and neutrino mass with A4 symmetry
Authors: Datta Arghyajit , Karmakar Biswajit , Sil Arunansu
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We propose a minimal A4 flavor symmetric model, assisted by Z2× Z3 symmetry, which can naturally takes care of the appropriate lepton mixing and neutrino masses via Type-I seesaw. It turns out that the framework, originated due to a specific flavor structure, favors the normal hierarchy of light neutrinos and simultaneously narrows down the range of Dirac CP violating phase. It predicts an interesting correlation between the atmospheric mixing angle and the Dirac CP phase too. While the flavor structure indicates an exact degeneracy of the right-handed neutrino masses, renormalization group running of the same from a high scale is shown to make it quasi-degenerate and a successful flavor leptogenesis takes place within the allowed parameter space obtained from neutrino phenomenology.
AdS one-loop partition functions from bulk and edge characters
Authors: Sun Zimo
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We show that the one-loop partition function of any higher spin field in (d + 1)-dimensional Anti-de Sitter spacetime can be expressed as an integral transform of an SO(2, d) bulk character and an SO(2, d − 2) edge character. We apply this character integral formula to various higher-spin Vasiliev gravities and find miraculous (almost) cancellations between bulk and edge characters that lead to agreement with the predictions of HS/CFT holography. We also discuss the relation between the character integral representation and the Rindler-AdS thermal partition function.
Folding orthosymplectic quivers
Authors: Bourget Antoine , Grimminger Julius F. , Hanany Amihay , Kalveks Rudolph , Sperling Marcus , Zhong Zhenghao
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Folding identical legs of a simply-laced quiver creates a quiver with a non-simply laced edge. So far, this has been explored for quivers containing unitary gauge groups. In this paper, orthosymplectic quivers are folded, giving rise to a new family of quivers. This is realised by intersecting orientifolds in the brane system. The monopole formula for these non-simply laced orthosymplectic quivers is introduced. Some of the folded quivers have Coulomb branches that are closures of minimal nilpotent orbits of exceptional algebras, thus providing a new construction of these fundamental moduli spaces. Moreover, a general family of folded orthosymplectic quivers is shown to be a new magnetic quiver realisation of Higgs branches of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 theories. The Hasse (phase) diagrams of certain families are derived via quiver subtraction as well as Kraft-Procesi transitions in the brane system.
A chiral model for sterile neutrino
Authors: Liu Chun , Reyimuaji Yakefu
Published: December 2021

Abstract

A model, which extends the standard model with a new chiral U(1)′ gauge symmetry sector, for the eV-mass sterile neutrino is constructed. It is basically fixed by anomaly free conditions. The lightness of the sterile neutrino has a natural explanation. As a by product, this model provides a WIMP-like dark matter candidate.
Searching for continuous phase transitions in 5D SU(2) lattice gauge theory
Authors: Florio Adrien , Lopes João M. Viana P. , Matos José , Penedones João
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We study the phase diagram of 5-dimensional SU(2) Yang-Mills theory on the lattice. We consider two extensions of the fundamental plaquette Wilson action in the search for the continuous phase transition suggested by the 4 + ϵ expansion. The extensions correspond to new terms in the action: i) a unit size plaquette in the adjoint representation or ii) a two-unit sided square plaquette in the fundamental representation. We use Monte Carlo to sample the first and second derivative of the entropy near the confinement phase transition, with lattices up to 125. While we exclude the presence of a second order phase transition in the parameter space we sampled for model i), our data is not conclusive in some regions of the parameter space of model ii).
The jumping spider Saitis barbipes lacks a red photoreceptor to see its own sexually dimorphic red coloration
Authors: Glenszczyk Mateusz , Outomuro David , Gregorič Matjaž , Kralj-Fišer Simona , Schneider Jutta M. , Nilsson Dan-Eric , Morehouse Nathan I. , Tedore Cynthia
Published: December 2021

Examining the role of color in mate choice without testing what colors the study animal is capable of seeing can lead to ill-posed hypotheses and erroneous conclusions. Here, we test the seemingly reasonable assumption that the sexually dimorphic red coloration of the male jumping spiderSaitis barbipesis distinguishable, by females, from adjacent black color patches. Using microspectrophotometry, we find clear evidence for photoreceptor classes with maximal sensitivity in the UV (359 nm) and green (526 nm), inconclusive evidence for a photoreceptor maximally sensitive in the blue (451 nm), and no evidence for a red photoreceptor. No colored filters within the lens or retina could be found to shift green sensitivity to red. To quantify and visualize whether females may nevertheless be capable of discriminating red from black color patches, we take multispectral images of males and calculate photoreceptor excitations and color contrasts between color patches. Red patches would be, at best, barely discriminable from black, and not discriminable from a low-luminance green. Some color patches that appear achromatic to human eyes, such as beige and white, strongly absorb UV wavelengths and would appear as brighter “spider-greens” toS. barbipesthan the red color patches. Unexpectedly, we discover an iridescent UV patch that contrasts strongly with the UV-absorbing surfaces dominating the rest of the spider. We propose that red and black coloration may serve identical purposes in sexual signaling, functioning to generate strong achromatic contrast with the visual background. The potential functional significance of red coloration outside of sexual signaling is discussed.
Sorghum in dryland: morphological, physiological, and molecular responses of sorghum under drought stress
Authors: Abreha Kibrom B. , Enyew Muluken , Carlsson Anders S. , Vetukuri Ramesh R. , Feyissa Tileye , Motlhaodi Tiny , Ng’uni Dickson , Geleta Mulatu
Published: December 2021

Main conclusion

Droughts negatively affect sorghum’s productivity and nutritional quality. Across its diversity centers, however, there exist resilient genotypes that function differently under drought stress at various levels, including molecular and physiological.

Sorghum is an economically important and a staple food crop for over half a billion people in developing countries, mostly in arid and semi-arid regions where drought stress is a major limiting factor. Although sorghum is generally considered tolerant, drought stress still significantly hampers its productivity and nutritional quality across its major cultivation areas. Hence, understanding both the effects of the stress and plant response is indispensable for improving drought tolerance of the crop. This review aimed at enhancing our understanding and provide more insights on drought tolerance in sorghum as a contribution to the development of climate resilient sorghum cultivars. We summarized findings on the effects of drought on the growth and development of sorghum including osmotic potential that impedes germination process and embryonic structures, photosynthetic rates, and imbalance in source-sink relations that in turn affect seed filling often manifested in the form of substantial reduction in grain yield and quality. Mechanisms of sorghum response to drought-stress involving morphological, physiological, and molecular alterations are presented. We highlighted the current understanding about the genetic basis of drought tolerance in sorghum, which is important for maximizing utilization of its germplasm for development of improved cultivars. Furthermore, we discussed interactions of drought with other abiotic stresses and biotic factors, which may increase the vulnerability of the crop or enhance its tolerance to drought stress. Based on the research reviewed in this article, it appears possible to develop locally adapted cultivars of sorghum that are drought tolerant and nutrient rich using modern plant breeding techniques.
Promise, premise, and reality: the case of voluntary environmental non-migration despite climate risks in coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Ahsan Md. Nasif , Khatun Fatema , Kumar Pankaj , Dasgupta Rajarshi , Johnson Brian Alan , Shaw Rajib
Published: December 2021

Despite confronting severe climatic risks, many people prefer to remain in climate hazard-prone areas rather than migrate. Environmental non-migration behavior, however, has gained relatively little research attention in the field of migration processes. This study aims to unveil the determinants motivating voluntary environmental non-migration decisions in coastal Bangladesh, an area highly exposed to flooding and other climate-related hazards (e.g., soil salinization). Applying a systematic random sampling, we selected 556 household respondents for a questionnaire survey from 14 villages of two coastal districts: Khulna and Satkhira. Applying a mixed method (i.e., both quantitative and qualitative) approach, major empirical results of this study suggest that even though all respondents lived in a similar situation in terms of climatic hazard and exposure, 88% of the respondents reported themselves as voluntary non-migrants. Furthermore, these non-migrants enjoyed higher socioeconomic and sociopsychological advantages and availed more local support from different government and non-government organizations than involuntary non-migrants. Again, mutual assistance, connection with social groups, natural resource access, sense of secured livelihood, stable societal atmosphere, and participation in decision-making in society appeared to build their higher degree of social capital $$({\chi }^{2}\left(4\right)=57.80;p<0.000)$$

(

χ

2

4

=
57.80
;
p
<
0.000
)

compared to involuntary non-migrants. All these features lead to a favorable environment that ultimately drove the respondents to become voluntary non-migrants.
Fostering the Industrial Component of the European Green Deal: Key Principles and Policy Options
Authors: Tagliapietra Simone , Veugelers Reinhilde
Published: December 2021

The necessity to meet climate and environmental targets, while at the same time ensuring economic and social sustainability,requires a transformation that will generate enough benefits to compensate the losers.
Green Finance in Europe — Strategy, Regulation and Instruments
Authors: Brühl Volker
Published: December 2021

A green transformation of nearly all parts of our economy is necessary, including but not limited to energy production and consumption, mobility, manufacturing and agriculture.
Europe’s Climate Target for 2050: An Assessment
Authors: Tol Richard S. J.
Published: December 2021

Decarbonisation is harder for transport, heating, industry and agriculture. That is, a doubling of the decarbonisation rate requires much more than a doubling of the policy effort. The low-hanging fruit has been picked.
European Technological Sovereignty: An Emerging Framework for Policy Strategy
Authors: Crespi Francesco , Caravella Serenella , Menghini Mirko , Salvatori Chiara
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 crisis has revealed the deep technological and production dependencies of the EU on third countries in sectors deemed as particularly strategic and has thus fuelled the debate on (the lack of) European technological sovereignty in critical fields. This article argues that in the light of a renewed interest in relaunching a European industrial policy, technological sovereignty considerations must be fully incorporated into policy objectives and instruments.
Nonlinear Young’s Modulus of New Red Sandstone: Experimental Studies
Authors: Riabokon Evgenii , Poplygin Vladimir , Turbakov Mikhail , Kozhevnikov Evgenii , Kobiakov Dmitrii , Guzev Mikhail , Wiercigroch Marian
Published: December 2021

Young’s modulus of New Red Sandstone was investigated experimentally to gain insight into its nonlinear nature. A large experimental programme was carried out by applying a controllable quasi-static and dynamic uniaxial loading to 286 dry sandstone samples of four different sizes. The static and dynamic tests, similar to those aiming at determining the uniaxial compressive strength, were conducted using the state-of-the-art experimental facilities at the University of Aberdeen including a custom-built small experimental rig for inducing a dynamic uniaxial compressive load via a piezoelectric transducer. The obtained results have confirmed a complex nature of Young’s modulus of sandstone. Specifically, under a harmonic dynamic loading, it shows strongly nonlinear behaviour, which is hardening and softening with respect to frequency and amplitude of the dynamic loading, respectively.