bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertainty in parameterizing a flux‐based model of vegetation carbon phenology using ecosystem respiration
Authors: Gong Yuan , Staudhammer Christina L. , Wiesner Susanne , Zhang Yinlong , Cannon Jeffery B. , Starr Gregory
Published: May 2022

The seasonal dynamics of plant communities are important indicators for assessment of long‐term vegetation patterns and provide valuable information to predict ecosystem responses to climate change. However, increased frequency of extreme weather events can force ecosystems into unstable states, which leads to greater uncertainty in determining phenological metrics (e.g., growing season length). To better understand these uncertainties, we utilized 9 years of eddy covariance and remote sensing data to parameterize models of seasonal ecosystem respiration (Re) for two subtropical longleaf pine forests (mesic and xeric), with similar vegetation but different water holding capacity. We compared two commonly used algorithms to extract phenology metrics, the growth rate (GR) and third derivative (TD) methods, which are usually used without justification. We determined the impact of algorithm selection on estimating key biological dates related to plant community carbon dynamics (e.g., start, end, and length of physiologically active season, specifically Re), characterized the model's response to extreme weather events, and compared estimates to those derived via remotely sensed greenness from the enhanced vegetation index (EVI). We observed that periods of winter warming increased duration of physiological activity in terms of Re, and summer water limitation caused multi‐peaked, asymmetric behavior, creating significant uncertainties. We found that choice of phenology metric extraction algorithm significantly impacted biological event dates; the GR method estimated longer phenophases than the TD in both sites, as well as earlier starting and later ending dates for phenophases. Because the TD method was unable to give estimates during the buffer period of phenophase transition under certain weather conditions, the GR method may be more suitable for studies in subtropical forests. Dates derived from EVI greenness rarely matched those of plant community seasonal dynamics models, especially in spring and summer. The estimated length of Re from the model was significantly longer than that derived from EVI, indicating that the use of EVI could result in shorter growing season estimates and greater uncertainty. Our results provide direction for optimization of future approaches to extract phenological metrics and better scientific understanding of forest land surface phenology, as weather anomalies become more common with climate change.
Slope topographic effects on the nonlinear seismic behavior of groups of similar buildings
Authors: Shamsi Mohammad , Shabani Mohammad Javad , Zakerinejad Mohammad , Vakili Amir Hossein
Published: May 2022

The occurrence of vibrational energy exchange between neighboring buildings via soil is a well‐known issue today as structure‐soil‐structure interaction (SSSI) problems. Furthermore, the seismic performance of buildings near the slopes considering seismic topography‐soil‐structure interaction (TSSI) is entirely different from their performance on the flat grounds considering seismic soil‐structure interaction (SSI). Therefore, this study evaluates the seismic response of three moments resistant frame steel buildings with 15, 10, and 5 stories using three dimensional numerical analysis as a new topography‐structure‐soil‐structure interaction (TSSSI) problem. This issue has not been investigated in previous studies to the best of the authors' knowledge. In each case of TSSSI, two, three, and four buildings with similar dynamic properties were simulated simultaneously. The effects of foundation's rocking, numbers of buildings, and the 2D and 3D arrangements of buildings were investigated, and the results of TSSSI cases were compared with the corresponding SSSI cases. The inelastic behavior for both building components and soil was considered in the simulations. Analyzes are performed based on seven earthquake records from which the average value was taken as final results. Results show that it is essential to consider the TSSSI effect, and it can completely change the seismic performance of buildings near the slopes. Although the effects of TSSI and SSSI on the seismic responses of the low‐rise similar structures are negligible relative to the SSI cases, the results show that the nonlinear TSSSI effects of adjacent buildings should be fully considered even for 5‐story low‐rise structures.
Evaluating the predictive power of intraday technical trading in China's crude oil market
Authors: Jin Xiaoye
Published: May 2022

This paper evaluates the predictive power of intraday technical trading in China's crude oil market. Even considering different subsample periods, data frequencies and frequencies of rebalancing portfolio of trading rules, an investor is unlikely to select trading rules with persistent out‐of‐sample performance in advance while taking into account data snooping bias and transaction costs. This indicates that the predictive power of intraday technical trading in China's crude oil market is illusory. Overall, our results seriously call into question the predictive power of technical trading in crude oil markets has been gradually shifting from daily data to intraday data.
CovidXAI: explainableAIassisted web application forCOVID‐19 vaccine prioritization
Authors: Chowdhury Deepraj , Poddar Saranda , Banarjee Soham , Pal Riya , Gani Abrar , Ellis Caroline , Arya Rajesh Chand , Gill Sukhpal Singh , Uhlig Steve
Published: May 2022

COVID‐19 vaccines have a limited supply, and there is a huge gap between supply and demand, leading to disproportionate administration. One of the main conditions on which balanced and optimal vaccine distribution depends are the health conditions of the vaccine recipients. Vaccine administration of front‐line workers, the elderly, and those with diseases should be prioritized. To solve this problem, we proposed a novel architecture called CovidXAI, which is trained with a self‐collected dataset with 24 parameters influencing the risk group of the vaccine recipient. Then, Random Forest and XGBoost classifiers have been used to train the model—having training accuracies of 0.85 and 0.87 respectively, to predict the risk factor, classified as low, medium, and high risk. The optimal vaccine distribution can be done using the derived from the predicted risk class. A web application is developed as a user interface, and Explainable AI (XAI) has been used to demonstrate the varying dependence of the various factors used in the dataset, on the output by CovidXAI.
Lifetime body mass index and grip strength at age 46 years: the 1970 British Cohort Study
Authors: Cooper Rachel , Tomlinson David , Hamer Mark , Pinto Pereira Snehal M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Ongoing rises in obesity prevalence have prompted growing concerns about potential increases in the burden of age‐related musculoskeletal conditions including sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity. This is of particular concern for future generations of older adults who have lived more of their lives in an obesogenic environment than current generations of older adults. We aimed to study longitudinal associations between body mass index (BMI) and grip strength in midlife using data from a large population‐based sample, the 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70).

Methods

BCS70 participants with valid measures of maximum grip strength at age 46 years were included in analyses [3671 males (49%) and 3876 females (51%)]. Using sex‐specific linear regression models, we examined associations of (i) BMI at ages 10, 16, 30, and 46 years; (ii) body fat percentage (BF%) and waist–hip ratio at age 46 years; (iii) BMI gains between 10–16, 16–30, and 30–46; and (iv) age at onset of obesity, with grip strength.

Results

At age 46 years, mean (standard deviation) grip strength was 48.10 kg (8.98) in males and 29.61 kg (5.81) in females. Higher BMI at all ages was associated with stronger grip, and the scale of associations was greater in males than females from age 16 onwards (Psex interactions < 0.01). For example, in fully adjusted models, a 1 standard deviation increase in BMI at age 16 was associated with mean differences in grip strength at age 46 years of 1.41 kg (95% confidence interval: 1.07, 1.75) in males and 0.72 kg (0.53, 0.91) in females. Higher BF% at age 46 was also associated with stronger grip in both sexes. Greater gains in BMI between ages 10 and 16 were associated with stronger grip in both sexes, but subsequent gains in BMI were only associated with stronger grip in males. Associations of greater length of exposure to obesity and stronger grip were also more consistent among males than females. For example, in fully adjusted models, mean grip strength at age 46 years of males and females who had been obese since age 10 or 16 years was 4.39 kg (1.85, 6.93) and 1.25 kg (−0.18, 2.69) higher than males and females who had never been obese, respectively.

Conclusions

Higher BMI from childhood onwards is associated with stronger grip at age 46 years. This suggests that, at this age, anabolic effects of fat on muscle are outweighing the catabolic effects thought to lead to the manifestation of sarcopenic obesity later in life, especially among men. Midlife may be an optimal time to intervene to prevent sarcopenic obesity.
Resveratrol inhibits the activity of acid‐sensing ion channels in male rat dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Wei Shuang , Liu Ting‐Ting , Hu Wang‐Ping , Qiu Chun‐Yu
Published: May 2022

Resveratrol can relieve pain under various pain conditions. One of the mechanisms of resveratrol analgesia is the regulation of ion channels. Acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are expressed predominantly in nociceptive sensory neurons to detect changes in extracellular pH. ASICs are important players in pain associated with tissue acidification. However, it is still unclear whether ASICs are resveratrol targets. Electrophysiological recordings showed that resveratrol decreased acid‐induced and ASIC‐mediated currents in male rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in a concentration‐dependent manner. Resveratrol downwardly shifted the concentration–response curve for protons, suggesting that it inhibited ASICs not by changing the pH0.5, but by suppressing the proton‐induced maximum response. It also suppressed acid‐triggered action potentials in the rat DRG neurons. Finally, intraplantar pretreatment with resveratrol relieved acid‐induced nociceptive responses in male rats in a dose‐dependent manner. These results indicated that resveratrol inhibited ASIC‐mediated electrophysiological activity and nociception, suggesting a novel peripheral mechanism underlying its analgesic effect.
School counseling for college and career readiness using Existential Theory model: A humanistic approach to counseling students of color in urban school settings
Authors: Challenger Clewiston D. , Duquette Kevin , Mason Ikone T.
Published: May 2022

Urban school counselors face unique challenges, and traditional approaches have proven inadequate. Grounded in existential theory and Super's Career theory, the School Counseling for College and Career Readiness Using Existential Theory (S3CRET) model fosters identity development and existentialist understanding within postsecondary decision‐making. Implications and suggestions for implementation are discussed.
The entrepreneurial orientation of LGBT Brazilian start‐ups: Context and antecedents
Authors: Cavalcanti André L. , Ferreira João J.
Published: May 2022

Understanding the context and the antecedents of the entrepreneurship of minorities have attracted the interest of researchers in recent years, even though few studies have focused on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transvestite, Transsexual or Transgender (LGBT) minorities. In keeping with this shortcoming, the objectives of this study involve identifying the context and the antecedents of the entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of LGBT minority entrepreneurs through a qualitative study deploying semi‐structured interviews with six Brazilian entrepreneurs belonging to this minority community. A qualitative methodology was carried out based on the content analysis of interviews and its relationship with the theoretical framework. Based on the framework of theories on marginalization and individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO), the results demonstrate that in most cases, this type of LGBT entrepreneur experiences discrimination in socio‐normative working environments, which may directly or indirectly shape their interests in entrepreneurship. The results also reflect how entrepreneurship becomes interconnected with a feeling of liberation felt by these individuals in openly declaring their sexuality and fostering the confidence capable of motivating them for entrepreneurship. This study furthermore identifies how the pursuit of success in this minority needs to apply a broader perspective than simply status or financial goals while also contributing with a proposed conceptual model and suggestions for future research studies.
Dynamics of blowouts indicating the process of grassland desertification
Authors: Zhou Yanguang , Hasi Eerdun , Wang Zhuoran , Qing Damuni , Han Xujiao , Yin Jie , Wu Zifeng
Published: May 2022

Sand desertification is a serious ecological and environmental problem in semiarid grassland areas; thus an accurate understanding of its causes and process mechanisms is of significance for grassland desertification control. With the popularization of remote sensing monitoring technology, most research has focused on analyzing the trends of grassland sand patches and their impact on regional desertification, whereas fewer studies have explored the mechanisms of grassland desertification development. This study analyzed the dynamic changes in grassland landscape in the Hulun Buir grassland of China via multiperiod high‐resolution remote sensing images from 1959 to 2020, and examined the morphological changes, erosion patterns, grain size characteristics and sediment compaction of two trough blowouts. Our study noted that under climate change and human activities, grassland desertification is becoming increasingly serious, and its main manifestation is the occurrence and expansion of blowouts. Changes in blowout morphologies indicate that the area of the deflation basin shows a state of continuous growth, whereas the area of the depositional lobe shows fluctuating changes, which could mean that the deflation basin may be a useful indicator of desertification. Based on a detailed analysis of both climate and grassland changes, we believe that human activities determine the occurrence of blowouts, and climatic conditions determine the expansion of blowouts and the desertification degree. The morphological changes of blowouts are related to the removal mode and erosion resistance of the grassland soil, and the rate of removal of the soil limits the rate of blowout expansion.
High methane emissions from an anoxic fjord driven by mixing and oxygenation
Authors: Bonaglia Stefano , Rütting Tobias , Kononets Mikhail , Stigebrandt Anders , Santos Isaac R. , Hall Per O. J.
Published: May 2022

Oceanic methane (CH4) budgets lack data from high‐latitude fjords that often behave as intermittently anoxic ecosystems with potentially high methane emissions. We conducted 15 expeditions and 49 in situ lander deployments in an anoxic Scandinavian fjord between 2009 and 2021. Benthic fluxes were highest at the deepest anoxic site (average 516 μmol CH4 m−2 d−1), supporting bottom water methane exceeding 5000 nM. Natural and engineered mixing events displaced methane‐rich bottom waters, enhancing upper water concentrations and driving high sea–air flux reaching 641 μmol CH4 m−2 d−1. Mixing also reduced pelagic methane oxidation from 70% to 20% of all methane sources into the fjord. Upscaling of literature fluxes combined with our results suggests that fjords globally emit 1.0 ± 0.8 Tg CH4 yr−1. Despite their small global area, fjords are hotspots of methane release. We suggest that ongoing deoxygenation and global change will enhance methane emissions from fjords.
Role of Molecular Weight in the Mechanical Properties and Charge Transport of Conjugated Polymers Containing Siloxane Side Chains
Authors: Huang Gang , Wu Ning , Wang Xiaohong , Zhang Guobing , Qiu Longzhen
Published: May 2022

The molecular weight is a key factor affecting the properties of conjugated polymers. To determine the critical molecular weights of conjugated polymers modified with siloxane side chains, poly‐diketo‐pyrrolopyrrole‐selenophene (PTDPPSe‐5Si) samples with molecular weights ranging from 20 to 350 kDa are synthesized. The critical molecular weight of the polymer is determined in the range of 60–100 kDa by testing the viscosity of the solution. When the molecular weight of the 27–60 kDa polymers is below the critical molecular weight, they exhibit a high crystallinity and low ductility. When the molecular weight of the 100 kDa polymer reaches the critical molecular weight, the crystallinity decreases, and the ductility increases. As the molecular weight increases, the polymer film also gradually changes from brittle to ductile. Furthermore, when the molecular weight of the 315 kDa polymer is much higher than the critical molecular weight, the film exhibits a significant ductility, which results in the polymer films showing no pronounced cracks after high‐percentage stretching. Additionally, due to the oriented alignment of the molecular chains caused by stretching, the carrier mobility in the parallel direction becomes 2.14‐fold of the initial film.
Asymptotic behavior of a difference equation model in exponential form
Authors: Ibrahim Tarek F.
Published: May 2022

We investigate the global stability and the convergence rate of the exponential model:

where
. The initials
, and
and the parameters

, and
are non‐negative real numbers. We also discuss the unboundedness, persistence, and boundedness of this system. Moreover, we introduce conditions for uniqueness and existence of the equilibrium. Finally, we give numerical explanations to verify our results. We can use the above system as a model for the growth of some perennial plants and their relationships with each other.
A 2D strip ionization chamber array with high spatiotemporal resolution for proton pencil beam scanning FLASH radiotherapy
Authors: Yang Yunjie , Shi Chengyu , Chen Chin‐Cheng , Tsai Pingfang , Kang Minglei , Huang Sheng , Lin Chih‐Hsun , Chang Fu‐Xiong , Chhabra Arpit M. , Choi J. Isabelle , Tome Wolfgang A. , Simone Charles B. , Lin Haibo
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Experimental measurements of two‐dimensional (2D) dose rate distributions in proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) FLASH radiation therapy (RT) are currently lacking. In this study, we characterize a newly designed 2D strip‐segmented ionization chamber array (SICA) with high spatial and temporal resolution and demonstrate its applications in a modern proton PBS delivery system at both conventional and ultrahigh dose rates.

Methods

A dedicated research beamline of the Varian ProBeam system was employed to deliver a 250‐MeV proton PBS beam with nozzle currents up to 215 nA. In the research and clinical beamlines, the spatial, temporal, and dosimetric performances of the SICA were characterized and compared with measurements using parallel‐plate ion chambers (IBA PPC05 and PTW Advanced Markus chamber), a 2D scintillator camera (IBA Lynx), Gafchromic films (EBT‐XD), and a Faraday cup. A novel reconstruction approach was proposed to enable the measurement of 2D dose and dose rate distributions using such a strip‐type detector.

Results

The SICA demonstrated a position accuracy of 0.12 ± 0.02 mm at a 20‐kHz sampling rate (50 μs per event) and a linearity of R2 > 0.99 for both dose and dose rate with nozzle beam currents ranging from 1 to 215 nA. The 2D dose comparison to the film measurement resulted in a gamma passing rate of 99.8% (2 mm/2%). A measurement‐based proton PBS 2D FLASH dose rate distribution was compared to simulation results and showed a gamma passing rate of 97.3% (2 mm/2%).

Conclusions

The newly designed SICA demonstrated excellent spatial, temporal, and dosimetric performances and is well suited for commissioning, quality assurance, and a wide range of clinical applications in proton PBS clinical and FLASH‐RT.
Incidence and 5‐year survival of children and adolescents with hepatoblastoma in the United States
Authors: Kahla Justin A. , Siegel David A. , Dai Shifan , Lupo Philip J. , Foster Jennifer H. , Scheurer Michael E. , Heczey Andras A.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common pediatric primary malignant liver tumor, its incidence has been increasing worldwide, but recent changes in incidence and outcomes with high population coverage are not well characterized.

Methods

We defined the incidence of HB diagnosed during 2003–2017 from United States Cancer Statistics (USCS) database, and survival during 2001–2016 from the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR). Data were stratified by sex, race/ethnicity, age, tumor stage, county population, and diagnosis year. Incidence trends were assessed by calculating average annual percent change (AAPC) using Joinpoint regression. Differences in overall 5‐year survival were estimated using Cox regression analysis.

Results

2178 HB cases with an annual incidence rate of 1.76 per million persons were identified and incidence increased over time (AAPC = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.9–3.6). The 5‐year relative survival was 76.9% (95% CI: 74.9–78.8) and the risk of death was lower for cases diagnosed after 2009 (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.63–0.94), higher for ages 3–7 years and 8–19 years compared to 0–2 years (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.10–1.76 and 1.83, 95% CI: 1.31–2.70, respectively), for distant compared to locoregional stage (HR = 2.77, 95% CI: 2.27–3.36), and for non‐Hispanic Black compared to non‐Hispanic White cases (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.02–1.84).

Conclusions

HB incidence increased, and survival improved over the study period. Disparities in survival exist by age, race or ethnicity, and stage. Further studies could identify factors affecting increases in HB cases, inform future interventions, and address disparities in outcomes.
CD38: A target in relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia—Limitations in treatment and diagnostics
Authors: Vakrmanová Barbora , Nováková Michaela , Říha Petr , Žaliová Markéta , Froňková Eva , Mejstříková Ester , Starý Jan , Hrušák Ondřej , Šrámková Lucie
Published: May 2022

Daratumumab, an anti‐CD38 antibody, is used experimentally in the treatment of relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We treated five patients suffering from relapsed ALL with daratumumab. Four patients had T ALL, three of whom achieved complete remission (CR) after treatment and underwent stem cell transplant (SCT). Two of them had a second relapse and died 6 and 8 months after SCT, respectively. One transplanted T ALL patient remained in CR2 15 months after relapse. In the remaining T‐ALL patient, the disease progressed under daratumumab treatment, and the patient died early after the first relapse. The B‐cell precursor ALL patient with a second CD19‐negative relapse, whose disease turned out to be resistant to the combination of daratumumab with chemotherapy, later achieved CR3 with inotuzumab ozogamicin, underwent SCT and remained in CR3. Leukemia burden should be monitored after daratumumab, and care should be taken not to misclassify leukemic cells with false negativity of surface CD38; using an antibody reacting with nondaratumumab epitopes is advantageous.
Cold plasma treatment of porous scaffolds: Design principles
Authors: Redzikultsava Katazhyna , Baldry Mark , Zhang Anyu , Alavi Seyedeh KH , Akhavan Behnam , Bilek Marcela M.
Published: May 2022

Three‐dimensional porous scaffolds have the potential to revolutionize a number of fields, including stem cell research, biomedical implants, tissue engineering, and regeneration, as well as energy technologies, filtration, and sensing. The ability to precisely engineer their surface properties is paramount to successful and enduring application. Plasma treatments promise to deliver homogeneous surfaces with tailored characteristics while generating few by‐products and not relying on the diffusion of liquids into a porous network. However, forming plasma inside complex interconnected pores is a significant challenge and requires much parameter fine‐tuning. This study uses numerical modeling to investigate key parameters which affect plasma breakdown and makes practical recommendations for achieving treatment homogeneity. We consider a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) system, where nitrogen gas flows through a glass tube containing a porous scaffold, which is surrounded by a cylindrical electrode, with ground electrodes at either end of the tube. The parameters investigated include the scaffolds' pore size and porosity as well as electrode size and position. The results showed that homogeneous treatment is achieved by avoiding alternative breakdown pathways such as a poor seal between the scaffold and the glass containment tube, using a narrow supply electrode centered at the scaffold, and positioning ground electrodes as close as possible to the supply electrode without arcing. This strategy maximizes the electric field strength at a given voltage, allowing for higher pressures to be used, which in turn give a more homogeneous mean free path inside the pores.
4‐Amino‐1‐Butyl‐1,2,4‐Triazolium Dinitramide – Synthesis, Characterization and Combustion of a Low‐Temperature Dinitramide‐Based Energetic Ionic Liquid (EIL)
Authors: Schaller Uwe , Lang Johannes , Gettwert Volker , Hürttlen Jürgen , Weiser Volker , Keicher Thomas
Published: May 2022

Salts being liquid below 100 °C are defined as ionic liquids. Due to their unique properties, they are attracting increasing interest and are also being investigated in the field of energetic materials. Combining nitrogen‐rich cations and oxygen‐rich anions, it is possible to obtain energetic ionic liquids (EILs). Potential applications are plasticizers, high explosives, gun and rocket propellants. However, only few works have been done in the field of EILs which show a glass transition temperature less than −40 °C, the so called low‐temperature EILs (LT‐EILs). LT‐EILs with dinitramide as an anion are an almost unknown group with interesting properties and potential. In this paper we present synthesis, characterization and combustion properties of 4‐amino‐1‐butyl‐1,2,4‐triazolium dinitramide (C4 DN) as a low temperature dinitramide‐based EIL in its entirety for the first time. A classic synthesis route and a metal‐free route are presented. The physical properties were measured and compared to conventional non‐ionic energetic plasticizers like BDNPA/F, TMETN/BTTN, Bu‐NENA and DNDA‐57. The combustion behaviour was studied using an optical window bomb and compared to non‐ionic energetic liquids in use. To evaluate the performance as an energetic plasticizer or additive, the interaction with the energetic binder GAP is investigated by manufacturing of dog bone‐shaped test specimen and comparing their mechanical properties and their glass transition temperatures with conventional energetic plasticizers, based on non‐ionic energetic compounds. As one result, C4 DN showed an intense softening effect. Based on the result, propellant samples were prepared and characterized.
Thirty second chair stand test: Test–retest reliability, agreement and minimum detectable change in people with early‐stage knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Gill Stephen , Hely Rachael , Page Richard S. , Hely Andrew , Harrison Benjamin , Landers Steve
Published: May 2022

Background and Purpose

To determine intra‐session test‐retest reliability, agreement and minimum detectable change (MDC) of the 30 CST across three tests in people with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A test–retest reliability study was performed with 93 people with mild radiological knee OA. Participants were asked to complete three attempts of the 30 CST 1–2 min apart according to a standardised protocol. Participants completed three attempts on two occasions: baseline and 6 months later. Change between tests within each session was assessed with ANOVA's and post‐hoc t‐tests. Reliability was assessed with intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICC[2,1]). Measurement error was expressed as MDC for an individual (MDCind) and a group (MDCgroup). Floor effects were considered present if more than 15% of participants scored zero for a test.

Results

Scores increased by 0.5 and 0.8 stands between the first and second test (p < 0.05) at the baseline and 6‐month assessments respectively, and then stabilised between the second the third tests at the baseline assessment (p > 0.05) or decreased (0.3 stands) at the 6‐month assessment (p < 0.05). Scores demonstrated excellent reliability (ICCs >0.9). MDCind was approximately 2.5 stands and MDCgroup was 0.3–0.4 stands. No floor effects were apparent.

Discussion

The 30CST demonstrated a practice effect between the first and second tests, which was no longer apparent by the third test. Despite this, scores demonstrated excellent intra‐session reliability. MDC estimates provide clinicians and researchers with the smallest change that can be detected by the instrument beyond measurement error for individuals and groups in community‐dwelling adults with knee OA.
f(R)$f(R)$ Wormholes Embedded in a Pseudo–Euclidean Space E5
Authors: Agrawal A. S. , Mishra B. , Tello‐Ortiz Francisco , Alvarez A.
Published: May 2022

This work is devoted to the study of analytic wormhole solutions within the framework of gravity theory. To check the possibility of having wormhole structures satisfying  energy conditions, by means of the class I approach the pair describing the wormhole geometry has been obtained. Then, in conjunction with a remarkably gravity model, the satisfaction of the null and weak energy conditions at the wormhole throat and its neighborhood is investigated. To do so, some constant parameters have been bounded restricting the space parameter. In this concern, the gravity model and its derivatives are playing a major role, specially in considering the violation of the non–existence theorem. Furthermore, the shape function should be bounded from above by the Gronwall–Bellman shape function, where the red–shift function plays a relevant role. By analyzing the main properties at the spatial stations and tidal accelerations at the wormhole throat, possibilities and conditions for human travel are explored.
Exfoliation of Active Materials Synchronized with Electrolyte Extraction from Spent Lithium‐Ion Batteries by Supercritical CO2
Authors: Mu Deying , Liang Jianquan , Zhang Jian , Wang Yue , Jin Shan , Dai Changsong
Published: May 2022

Safe and harmless treatment of electrolyte is a critical environment issue for spent lithium‐ion battery recycling; the effective separation of cathode materials from aluminum foil is a key technology for resource utilization. Previous studies have never considered the two as a whole. This study introduced supercritical CO2 technology to realize the integrated treatment of electrolyte removal and cathode material exfoliation. The results indicated that the optimum parameter was obtained at a temperature of 38 °C, a time of 15 min and a pressure of 10 MPa. The peeling efficiency of cathode material from Al foil reached 98.86 wt.%. Mechanism analysis confirmed that the separation of Al foil and cathode material was the result of the weakened adhesion of electrode interface, which can be attributed to the removal of the organic component including carbonate‐based organic solution and organic binder caused by the fluid extraction process.
CO2‐Derived Oxygen‐Rich Carbon with Enhanced Redox Reactions as a Cathode Material for Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jing Xiaoyun , Ma Yongsong , Wang Fan , Li Wei , Wang Dihua
Published: May 2022

Aqueous Zn‐ion batteries based on carbon cathode materials show high potential in the application of energy storage due to their low cost, high safety and long cycling lifespan, but the low reversible capacity and energy density hinder their practical. Herein, CO2‐derived oxygen‐rich carbons by molten salt electrolysis are proposed as attractive cathode materials with enhanced redox reactions. By optimizing the electrolysis current density at 50 mA cm−2, electrolytic carbon featuring honeycomb‐like morphology, high specific surface area and O content, as well as abundant defect is realized. Owing to the enhanced electrochemical reactions originating from the oxygen‐rich functional group in the electrolytic carbon, improved electrochemical Zn storage performance is achieved, showing a high capacity of 257 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, which is one of the highest values reported, and it preserves good cycling stability after 10000 cycles at 1 A g−1. It is revealed that C=O group in electrolytic carbon shows high reactivity and can reversibly storage and release Zn2+ ions, which is accompanied by the formation and dissolution of ZnxOTfy(OH)2x‐y⋅nH2O layer. This work offers effective strategy to improve the electrochemical performance of carbons by manipulating the surface reaction of carbon for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries.
Above 23% Efficiency by Binary Surface Passivation of Perovskite Solar Cells Using Guanidinium and Octylammonium Spacer Cations
Authors: Mozaffari Naeimeh , Duong The , Shehata M. M. , Bui Anh Dinh , Pham Huyen T. , Yin Yanting , Mayon Y. Osorio , Zheng Jianghui , Mahmud Md Arafat , Tabi Grace Dansoa , Andersson Gunther G. , Black Lachlan E. , Peng Jun , Shen Heping , White Thomas P. , Weber Klaus , Catchpole Kylie R.
Published: May 2022

One of the important factors in the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is effective defect passivation. Dimensional engineering technique is a promising method to efficiently passivate non‐radiative recombination pathways in the bulk and surface of PSCs. Herein, a passivation approach for the perovskite/hole transport layer interface is presented, using a mixture of guanidinium and n‐octylammonium cations introduced via GuaBr and n‐OABr. The dual‐cation passivation layer can provide an open‐circuit voltage of 1.21 V with a power conversion efficiency of 23.13%, which is superior to their single cation counterparts. The mixed‐cation passivation layer forms a 1D/2D perovskite film on top of 3D perovskite, leading to a more hydrophobic and smoother surface than the uncoated film. A smooth surface can diminish non‐radiative recombination and enhance charge extraction at the interface making a better contact with the transport layer, resulting in improved short‐circuit current. In addition, space charge‐limited current measurements show a three times reduction in the trap‐filled limit voltage in the mixed‐cation passivated sample compared with unpassivated cells, indicating fewer trapped states. The shelf‐life stability test in ambient atmosphere with 60% relative humidity as well as light‐soaking stability reveal the highest stability for the dual‐cation surface passivation.
Should elephants be kept in zoos?
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: May 2022

Georgina Mills reflects on a recent report from Born Free which calls for an end to keeping elephants in captivity.
Diode laser‐assisted transcanal endoscopic removal of an aural polyp in the external auditory canal of a dog
Authors: Hoshino Tomoya , Fukuda Shoko , Nagata Masahiko
Published: May 2022

Background

In humans, aural polyps comprise fibrovascular tissue covered by the respiratory epithelium. Aural polyps with ciliated epithelium are common in cats but are rarely reported in dogs. In a previous case, a mass filled the tympanic cavity alone, and it was surgically removed.

Objectives

To report a case of a canine aural polyp with ciliated epithelium extending from the dorsal tympanic cavity to the external auditory canal with detailed otological features and to demonstrate the usefulness of the transcanal endoscopic procedure (TEP) with a diode laser as a less‐invasive therapy.

Methods

A 12‐year‐old castrated male Cavalier King Charles Spaniel presented with a 6‐month history of unilateral chronic otorrhoea. Video‐otoscope examination revealed a protruding, reddish and soft‐to‐rubbery round mass in the right horizontal ear canal. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging further revealed a smooth mass extending from the dorsal portion of the tympanic cavity into the horizontal part of the external auditory canal. However, it showed no lesions in the dorsal tympanic cavity.

Results

The mass was removed using aural forceps by a traction‐torsion manoeuvre. The suspected base of the mass on the caudal side of the upper tympanic cavity was confirmed by a rigid scope, and it was completely vaporised with a diode laser. Histopathology revealed foci of columnar ciliated epithelium embedded in the connective tissue encapsulated by stratified squamous epithelium. No recurrence was observed at 3 years and 8 months.

Conclusion

We describe a rare case of an aural polyp with ciliated epithelium extending from the upper‐middle ear to the external auditory canal in a dog. The TEP using a diode laser may be a useful minimally invasive treatment option for managing external auditory canal polyps.
Using statistical population reconstruction to estimate demographics of wild turkey populations
Authors: Clawson Michael V. , Isabelle Jason L. , Skalski John R. , Millspaugh Joshua J.
Published: May 2022

Although the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo; hereafter, turkey) is one of the most popular game species in the United States, there is no consensus on how best to monitor turkey populations. Harvest data are readily available to state wildlife agencies but are often not coupled with other datasets (e.g., hunter effort) for demographic assessments. We described the utility of statistical population reconstruction (SPR) to unite disparate datasets and effectively monitor status and trends of key turkey demographic rates at spatial scales relevant to wildlife managers. We demonstrated SPR model development and associated assumptions, model selection, and model evaluation using male‐only models for turkeys in 2 regions of Missouri, USA, and compared model output to harvest‐based and non‐harvest‐based indices. Use of SPR led to a more comprehensive assessment of population dynamics than did indices alone. Moreover, inference based solely on indices would likely have led to different interpretations of which factors govern turkey population dynamics and ultimately which management practices should be implemented. Disparity of model output between regions demonstrates importance of auxiliary data in SPR model utility. As such, we encourage well‐planned and executed auxiliary studies to improve precision of demographic rates when using SPR models. Statistical population reconstruction provides a viable, useful tool to assess demographics of turkey populations and on which to base management decisions.
The valence conversion mechanism for Mo‐doped VO2 films with enhanced thermochromic properties
Authors: Pei Rui , Ma Xinguo , Han Changcun , Liu Zhifeng , Cheng Zhengwang , Dong Xiaoru
Published: May 2022

Reducing the phase transition temperature (Tc) of VO2 films to achieve the application in the field of Smart Home is still a challenge. Thus, in the work, the ultra‐thin VO2 films with different Mo doping amounts were successfully prepared by an economic sol‐gel method and atmosphere annealing, aiming to further investigate the mechanism of the decrease of Tc. The results show that the VO2 films with 3 at % Mo doping possess the Tc of 29.5 °C. Notedly, in the as‐prepared films, the maximum transmittance in the visible region (Tvis) is 46.3 % and the solar direct transmittance (Tsol) is 45.8 %. According to the XPS spectra, it is confirmed that the Mo doping prominently induces the valence change of V ions from +4 to +3, inhibiting the strain in the phase transition process of VO2 films, and leading to the decrease of Tc. Our work will provide a feasible solution for reducing the Tc of the ultra‐thin VO2 films.
On the dispersionless Davey–Stewartson hierarchy: Zakharov–Shabat equations, twistor structure, and Lax–Sato formalism
Authors: Yi Ge
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we continue the study of the Davey–Stewartson system, which is one of the most important (2 + 1)‐dimensional integrable models. As we showed in the previous paper, the dDS (dispersionless Davey–Stewartson) system arises from Hamiltonian vector fields Lax pair. A new hierarchy of compatible partial differential equations (PDEs) defining infinitely many symmetries, which is associated with the dDS system, is defined in this paper. We show that this hierarchy arises from the commutation condition of a particular series of one‐parameter Hamiltonian vector fields.
Identity, Intersectionality and Children in Care: The Case of Muslim-Heritage ‘Looked-After’ Children in the UK
Authors: Cheruvallil-Contractor Sariya , Halford Alison , Phiri Mphatso Boti
Published: May 2022

Social work policy in the UK, and public discourse informed by this policy, insists that children need permanent and secure homes. In finding homes for children, preserving and nourishing their identities is prioritised. Faith can be a key aspect of children’s identities, yet there is limited research on faith considerations in the decisions and processes of finding permanent homes for vulnerable children. Focusing on the experiences of Muslim children in the care system, this chapter will begin a discussion about filling this gap in academic literature. There are approximately 4500 children of Muslim heritage in the care system in England and Wales, and this number is increasing. Through interviews with 41 social workers, foster carers, adoptive parents, prospective adoptive parents, and care leavers, this study presents a research-informed narrative of the layered and intersectional ways in which Muslim-heritage children experience and articulate their faith identities. The research findings presented in this chapter indicate that to ensure children’s well-being, social work practitioners and carers need to consider children’s identities in their entirety, including the dynamics influencing decision-making about their lives.
Islamic Social Ethics, Social Work and the Common Good: Learning from Western Contexts
Authors: Hussain Dilwar
Published: May 2022

This chapter begins by looking at the changing landscape of social action and engagement, social capital and the role of faith groups and congregations in engaging socially. It then considers the ways in which Muslim communities are beginning to articulate a vision for social engagement based on the ideas of maṣlaḥa and maqāṣid. As we have seen in other chapters in this volume, these concepts have been regarded by many as an important theological foundation for social and ethical work in the public sphere. This chapter will dwell further on the origins of maṣlaḥa and look at different approaches towards it. While acknowledging the value of maṣlaḥa, the chapter will also assess some of its limitations and examine approaches that are being articulated by modern Muslim intellectuals to advance more egalitarian and inclusive social ethics. It will then suggest additional ways of grounding concerns around needs, social action and engagement in a way that can reflect a notion of the ‘common good’ – through the idea of human flourishing which is equated here to the Islamic notion of iḥsān, in order to move away from parochial outlooks and develop inclusive, universal visions that could nurture a more sophisticated conversation around our shared values and our shared future in Western contexts.
Public Values and Technological Change: Mapping how Municipalities Grapple with Data Ethics
Authors: Siffels Lotje , van den Berg David , Schäfer Mirko Tobias , Muis Iris
Published: May 2022

Local governments in the Netherlands are increasingly undertaking data projects for public management. While the emergence of data practices and the application of algorithms for decision making in public management have led to a growing critical commentary, little actual empirical research has been conducted. Over the past few years, we have developed a research method that enables researchers to enter organisations not merely as researchers but also as experts on data ethics. Through participatory and ethnographic observation, the DEDA (Data Ethics Decision Aid) gives us special insight into ethics in local government. Where most research has focused on the theoretical aspects of data ethics, our approach offers a new perspective on data practices, by looking at how data ethics is done in public management. Our research provides insight into the state of data awareness within organisations that are mostly portrayed—within critical data studies—as homogeneous and monolithic entities. The distinct method developed at Utrecht Data School allows researchers to immerse themselves within organisations and closely observe data practices, discourses on ethics, and how organisations address challenges that arise as a consequence of datafication. For the purpose of this chapter, we analyse our field work with the DEDA through the lens of Mark Moore’s Strategic Triangle of Public Value. We show how our field work can give insight into how the three angles of the strategic triangle are shaped in practice. From this analysis we draw three conclusions. First, that ethical awareness of data projects is often low because data literacy among civil servants is limited. Second, that by not recognising the choices civil servants have to make as ethical or political choices, they can make decisions that go beyond their mandate. Third, that there is a dangerous tendency where ethical deliberation is sometimes seen as an obnoxious bureaucratic box ticking exercise, instead of being considered as a vital part of the design and build-up of a data project.
“Party like it’s December 31, 1983”: Supporting Data Literacy at CryptoParties
Authors: Kannengießer Sigrid
Published: May 2022

The field of critical data studies has been deconstructing datafication, pointing out privacy risks in online communication, and criticising the surveillance and the exploitation of internet users. Research on civic tech and data activism seeks to analyse the ways in which different actors face the challenges posed by datafication and try to empower people to make informed decisions about their data.

Data literacy becomes a crucial competence today as citizens face the challenges of living in datafied societies. Through a discussion of different concepts of literacy, the chapter characterises data literacy along four specific criteria: (1) citizens possess knowledge of datafication, the ambivalences and challenges they are forced to confront, (2) people have access to their personal data, and (3) they have the skills which are required to engage with data’s specific materiality.

The definition of data literacy that is used here was developed in a study presented in this chapter that analysed the ways in which actors encourage and support data literacy at CryptoParties. CryptoParties are events where people meet to share knowledge and learn about critical data practices that allow secure online communication. As the study demonstrates, the diverse group of people who organise these events aim to enable and develop laypersons’ data literacy in an increasingly datafied world.

In its discussion about CryptoParties, this chapter contributes to the research field of critical data studies on a general level, but more specifically, its focus is data literacy to demonstrate the ways in which civil society initiatives critically reflect on datafication and the complex risks to privacy posed by online communication.