bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A remediation measure as an alternative to grade retention: A study on achievement motivation
Authors: Smith Jonathan , Paquin Stéphane , St‐Amand Jérôme , Singh Cara , Moreau Daniel , Bergeron Julie , Leroux Mylène
Published: February 2022

This study investigates the effects of an alternative approach to grade retention, known as a “remediation measure.” This measure was tested in 2010–2011 in two high schools in Quebec (Canada) and its effects on students' achievement motivation were analyzed. Specifically, the evolution of general and domain‐specific expectancy and value perceptions of 74 students who failed Grade 8 and experienced this measure (Mage = 14.81 years) were compared with those of 42 same‐age peers (Mage = 14.84 years) who graduated to Grade 9. This evolution was also examined as a function of teachers' support and friends' school attitudes. This measure appeared to have a favorable effect on competence beliefs, in general, and in French. However, the results did not reveal any moderating effects of teacher support and friends' school attitudes. Findings are discussed in light of research evidence concerning the role of social influence on achievement motivation.
Microfluidic fabrication of novel polymeric core‐shell microcapsules for storage of CO2 solvents and organic chelating agents
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Moshtaghibana Seyedarash , Zhu Tianle , Fayemiwo Kehinde A. , Price Adam , T. Vladisavljević Goran
Published: February 2022

Monodispersed polymeric microcapsules loaded with CO2 solvents or chelating agents were produced by capillary microfluidics by photopolymerisation of three different UV curable materials, 1,6‐hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), Norland Optical Adhesive (NOA) 81, and Semicosil® 949 UV A/B (PDMS). Polymerization of HDDA and NOA 81 started after exposure to UVA light for 5 s and was completed within a minute, as confirmed by continuous FT‐IR. Corrosive aqueous solutions of tetraethylenepentamine and diisopropyl iminodiacetic acid were encapsulated with 100% efficiency into poly(HDDA) and cured NOA81 shells without any leakage during prolonged storage. Poly(HDDA) shells were mechanically more stable than cured NOA81 and PDMS shells and resistant to drying‐induced shell buckling. NOA81 and PDMS capsules underwent morphological changes during freeze drying leading to the formation of dimpled and crescent‐moon‐shaped particles, respectively. The storage stability in a hypotonic solution and buckling resistance of PDMS shells were significantly improved by embedding carbon‐based nanomaterials into PDMS matrix. The incorporation of 0.5 wt% multi‐walled carbon nanotubes into PDMS matrix led to an increase in a Shore A hardness from 1.6 to 2.3. A uniform distribution of MWCNTs in the polymer network was confirmed by XRD. All fabricated shells were thermally stable up to the temperature of 300°C.
Low‐temperature reduction of SnO2by floating wire‐assisted medium‐pressure H2/Ar plasma
Authors: Nguyen Thi‐Thuy‐Nga , Sasaki Minoru , Hsiao Shih‐Nan , Tsutsumi Takayoshi , Ishikawa Kenji , Hori Masaru
Published: February 2022

Reduction of SnO2to form spherical Sn particles and Sn etching are obtained by floating wire (FW)‐assisted medium‐pressure H2/Ar plasma. High‐density H2/Ar plasma (1014 cm−3) with a larger treatment area at medium pressure (10 kPa) produces a two‐times higher removal rate of SnO2(0.111 mg/min) than that at atmospheric pressure with the same treatment area of 300 mm2. SnO2film is removed from the glass surface by a two‐step process involving (1) reduction of SnO2by FW‐H2/Ar plasma to form spherical Sn particles and (2) removal of low‐contact Sn particles by water‐based cleaning. High surface smoothness (roughness of 0.488 nm) and high optical transmittance (>92%) of treated samples indicate no damage compared to that of pristine quartz glass.
Compatibility of rapid enteral feeding advances and noninvasive ventilation in preterm infants—An observational study
Authors: Behnke Judith , Estreich Vanessa , Oehmke Frank , Zimmer Klaus‐Peter , Windhorst Anita , Ehrhardt Harald
Published: February 2022

Aim

To evaluate safety and clinical outcome of rapid enteral feeding advances in preterm infants <1500 g birthweight (BW).

Methods

In this single‐center retrospective cohort study, 293 preterm infants born during 2015–2018 were comparatively analyzed before (n = 145) and after (n = 148) the implementation of a rapid enteral feeding protocol with daily milk increments of 20–30 ml/kg of body weight. Major outcome parameters were focused toward pulmonary morbidities and nutritional variables.

Results

Preterm infants in the rapid feeding advancement group were more successfully stabilized on noninvasive ventilation (p < 0.001) never requiring mechanical ventilation. Duration of respiratory support (0.465) and frequency of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) (p = 0.341) and severe BPD (0.273) did not differ between both groups. Furthermore, patients in the rapid feeding group achieved full volume feedings faster (p < 0.001), regained BW earlier (p = 0.009), and displayed significantly improved somatic growth at 36 weeks gestational age (p < 0.001). There was no increased risk for further morbidities of prematurity including feeding intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and focal intestinal perforation.

Conclusion

Rapid enteral feeding advancements in preterm infants <1500 g BW are safe and do not impede stabilization on noninvasive ventilation.
Toxicity, horizontal transfer, and physiological and behavioral effects of cycloxaprid against Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Zhang Lang , Wang Lei , Chen Jian , Zhang Jianlong , He Yinghao , Lu Yongyue , Cai Jiacheng , Chen Xuan , Wen Xiujun , Xu Zhiping , Wang Cai
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, is a significant urban, agricultural, and medical pest with a wide distribution in the world. Surface or mound treatment using contact insecticide is one of the main methods to control S. invicta. In the present study, cycloxaprid, a newly discovered neonicotinoid insecticide, was evaluated for S. invicta control and compared with two referent insecticides, imidacloprid and bifenthrin.

RESULTS

Surfaces or sand treated with cycloxaprid, imidacloprid, or bifenthrin caused high mortality of S. invicta workers, and the action of cycloxaprid or imidacloprid was slower than bifenthrin. Like imidacloprid and bifenthrin, cycloxaprid can be horizontally transferred from corpses or live donor ants to recipient ants. In addition, cycloxaprid‐ or imidacloprid‐treated surfaces significantly induced the activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and detoxification enzymes; nevertheless, they had no significant effect on the foraging behaviors of S. invicta workers. Also, sand treated with cycloxaprid or imidacloprid did not negatively affect the digging activities of ants. Interestingly, S. invicta workers excavated significantly more sand containing 0.01 mg/kg cycloxaprid than untreated sand in the no‐choice digging bioassays. In addition, extensive nesting activities (sand excavation and stacking) were observed in the flowerpots containing untreated sand or sand treated with cycloxaprid or imidacloprid. On the contrary, bifenthrin significantly reduced the foraging, digging, and nesting activities of S. invicta workers.

CONCLUSION

Cycloxaprid is a slow‐acting and nonrepellent insecticide against S. invicta workers, and its contact and horizontal toxicities are slightly higher than imidacloprid. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Optical Properties and Lattice Dynamics of Pure and S‐Alloyed Cu–Zn–Sn–Te Semiconductors: First‐Principles Calculations and Raman Scattering
Authors: Litvinchuk Alexander P. , Dzhagan Volodymyr , Mazur Nazar , Yukhymchuk Volodymyr O. , Kapush Olga A. , Zahn Dietrich R.T.
Published: February 2022

The electronic band structure, the optical properties, and the lattice dynamics of the quaternary Cu2ZnSnTe4 (CZTTe) semiconductor with kesterite crystallographic structure are calculated within first principles. The analysis of the phonon partial density of states shows that the highest frequency phonon mode involves mostly heavy Sn and Te atoms due to their exceptionally strong bonding. Experimental Raman spectra of Cu–Zn–Sn–Te nanocrystals, prepared by an aqueous colloidal synthesis, reveal a single characteristic line and its higher order overtones due to specific resonant conditions. In the case of Cu–Zn–Sn–(Te–S) alloy nanoparticles, other Raman features, related to Sn–S vibrations, appear in the spectra indicating a two‐mode type of transformation of their vibrational spectra. The effect of sulfur incorporation on the Te‐related frequency is opposite to the effect observed for the Se‐related frequency in CZTSSe alloys.
The Tensile Deformation of Multiphase Al2O3: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Le Vinh Van , Dinh Thi Hinh , Nguyen Thao T. , Nguyen Ha Thi Thanh
Published: February 2022

Multiphase Al2O3 samples are simulated using molecular dynamics method. These samples consist of γ‐Al2O3 and α‐Al2O3 crystals embedded in a disordered phase matrix. The stress–strain curves of these samples show elastic and plastic deformation. Structural analysis indicates that the AlO bond lengths are stretched and the geometries of the AlOx (x = 4, 5, and 6) units are distorted during tensile deformation. AlO bond breakage causes the transformation of AlOx units; AlO4 increases while AlO6 decreases with increasing strain. The γ‐Al2O3 and α‐Al2O3 crystals transfer into the disordered phase, while a small number of atoms recrystallize under tensile loads. In plastic deformation, large simplexes with radii above 1.958 Å increase rapidly with increasing strains above 0.116, with the large simplexes coalescing to form the clusters in the disordered phase. The number of large simplexes in the largest cluster increases with increasing strain values above 0.127. The growth and coalescence of large simplexes in the disordered phase cause microscopic crack formation at high strains.
Utilizing restricted mean duration of response for efficacy evaluation of cancer treatments
Authors: Huang Bo , Tian Lu
Published: February 2022

In oncology clinical trials, response‐based endpoints (time to response, objective response, duration of response [DOR]) are commonly used to detect therapeutic effect to support proof‐of‐concept or submission decisions. The restricted mean DOR (RMDOR) was recently proposed as a composite nonparametric method to efficiently quantify the treatment effect related to tumor reductions, which offers an intuitive way to perform statistical inference in cross‐arm comparison and has since been applied in some Phase III studies. In this paper, we provide further technical details and asymptotic properties of the RMDOR method and discuss the selection of the truncation time. A simulation study is conducted comparing the performance of the proposed method with existing standard methods in hypothesis testing and quantification of treatment efficacy. We use two oncology Phase III examples to illustrate the method. An R package PBIR and a SAS macro are available to perform statistical inference based on the RMDOR.
Cellulose‐based absorbent pad loaded with Carum copticum essential oil for shelf life extension of refrigerated chicken meat
Authors: Liu Guang‐Fa , Song Hai‐Yan , Zhang Qian , Wang Jian‐Qing , Wang Li‐Jun , Zhang Zheng‐Jian
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of active absorbent pad containing Carum copticum essential oil (C. copticum EO) on shelf life and quality of refrigerated chicken meat. C. copticum EO release, total viable count (TVC), pH, total volatile nitrogen (TVB‐N), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and sensory attributes were evaluated during 18 days of storage. The results showed that the release of thymol decreased gradually during storage and reduced to the lowest level on day 21. Active pad resulted in lower TVC, TVB‐N, pH and TBARS level compared with the reference/without active pad. The sensory quality of chicken meat was maintained longer compared to the control sample, which was attributed to the significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of C. copticum EO against spoilage microorganisms. Active absorbent pad loaded with 100 μl C. copticum EO demonstrated the best performance in extending the shelf life and maintaining the sensory attributes of the refrigerated chicken meat.
High dimensional reliability analysis based on combinations of adaptive Kriging and dimension reduction technique
Authors: Ji Yuxiang , Xiao Ning‐Cong , Zhan Hongyou
Published: February 2022

High dimensional reliability analysis is unavoidable if a structural system involving stochastic process because Karhunen–Loève (K‐L) expansion is commonly used. Reliability analysis for structural systems with computationally intensive numerical models and high dimensions is challenging. In this study, an effective high dimensional reliability analysis method is proposed based on principal components and active subspace (PCAS) and active Kriging, and is termed as PCAS‐AK. The proposed method can address two shortcomings existing in PCAS: the latter select training samples randomly and cannot deal with parallel processing. The proposed method, however, selects training samples adaptively, subsequently, the training samples that have high contribution to probability of failure are selected, which can improve computational efficiency. To reduce overall computational time and allow parallelization, K‐weighted‐means combined with learning function are used to select multiple samples at each iteration. After the dimension reduction of both input and output spaces, the samples selected by adaptive method are used to construct Kriging model in the latent low‐dimensional space. Three examples are used to demonstrate the applicability and accuracy of the proposed method. Results show that the proposed method can deal with parallel processing and is, generally, more effective than PCAS for high dimensional reliability problems.
Analysis of low‐abundance molecules in complex matrices by quadrupole‐linear ion trap mass spectrometry using a simultaneous fragmentation and accumulation strategy
Authors: Li Chang , Jiang You , Chu Shiying , Yin Xinchi , Tan Siyuan , Huang Zejian , Dai Xinhua , Gong Xiaoyun , Fang Xiang , Tian Di
Published: February 2022

Rationale

Fast and sensitive analysis of low‐abundance molecules in complex matrices has always been a challenge in chemical and biological applications. Mass spectrometry (MS) has been widely used in the fields of chemical and biological analysis due to its unparalleled specificity and sensitivity. However, the MS signals consistently deteriorate in the presence of matrices. Demands for more sensitive and efficient methods to analyze those low‐abundance molecules in chemical and biological systems are in urgent need.

Methods

Based on a home‐made quadrupole‐linear ion trap (Q‐LIT) mass spectrometer, a simultaneous fragmentation and accumulation strategy was developed to improve the sensitivity of the analysis for the low‐abundance molecules in complex matrices. Ions were filtered by the quadrupole into the LIT. The precursor ions were fragmented and the product ions were isolated and accumulated in the LIT simultaneously. The fragmentation, isolation and accumulation processes were conducted at the same time. The accumulation time could be controlled to accumulate sufficient product ions.

Results

With this strategy, the signal intensity of targeted molecules could be increased by 2–8 times and by increasing the accumulation time, this could be further enhanced. Those interferences induced by isomers and matrices can be reduced by using our method. We further applied our method to the quantification and analysis of biological samples. Tryptic digested peptides of myoglobin (Mb) were successfully detected by our method.

Conclusions

We have established a new method with great advantages in the detection of molecules in complex matrices. The application of this method promises better results in the bioanalytical area, especially for the analysis of substances in complex matrices in the future.
Assessing the preservation of biogenic strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) in the pars petrosa ossis temporalis of unburnt human skeletal remains: A case study from Saba
Authors: Kootker Lisette M. , Laffoon Jason E.
Published: February 2022

Rationale

Strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr) analysis of skeletal remains has become a powerful tool in archaeological studies of human migration and mobility. Owing to its resistance to post‐mortem alteration, dental enamel is the preferred sampling material used for 87Sr/86Sr analysis in bioarchaeological provenance research, although recent studies have demonstrated that cremated bone is also generally resistant to diagenesis. This paper presents the results of a pilot study exploring the potential of unburnt petrous bone (pars petrosa) as a reservoir of biogenic (diagenetically unaltered) strontium, as the otic capsule or bony labyrinth within the petrous bone is extremely dense and is thought to be unable to remodel after early childhood, potentially providing an alternative for dental enamel.

Methods

From an individual from a colonial‐era (18th century) site on the island of Saba in the Caribbean for whom previous enamel 87Sr/86Sr results had indicated non‐local origins, multiple locations (n = 4) on the petrous were sampled and measured for strontium isotope composition. Saba (13 km2) has been extensively mapped for baseline strontium isotopes (n = 50) with 87Sr/86Sr varying from ca 0.7065 to 0.7090, whereas enamel 87Sr/86Sr (n = 3) ranged from 0.7104 to 0.7112.

Results

All four petrous 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.7111–0.7122) are consistently and considerably higher than the local bioavailable range, and very similar to the enamel 87Sr/86Sr. These results provide initial evidence that unburnt petrous bones may preserve biogenic strontium, at least in this specific burial context.

Conclusions

While more research in diverse burial conditions is needed to validate this observation, if confirmed, it would have broader implications for sample selection strategies in bioarchaeological studies using the strontium isotope method.
Large‐scale and fine‐grained mapping of heathland habitats using open‐source remote sensing data
Authors: Hubert‐Moy Laurence , Rozo Clémence , Perrin Gwenhael , Bioret Frédéric , Rapinel Sébastien
Published: February 2022

Mapping natural habitats remains challenging, especially at a national scale. Although new open‐access variables for vegetation and its environment and increased spatial resolution derived from satellite remote sensing data are available at the global scale, the relevance of these new variables for fine‐grained mapping of natural habitats at a national scale remains underexplored. This study aimed to map the fine‐grained pattern of four heathland habitats throughout France (550 000 km2). Environmental (bioclimatic, soil and topographic) and spectral (vegetation) variables derived from MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer, and Sentinel‐2 satellite data were analyzed using the MaxEnt classifier. Open‐access field databases were used to calibrate and validate the classification, based on the threshold‐independent area under the curve (AUC) index and the conventional F1‐score. For each heathland habitat, potential and actual areas were mapped using environmental and spectral variables, respectively. The results showed high classification accuracy for potential (AUC 0.92–0.99) and actual (AUC 0.88–0.99) suitability maps of the four heathland habitats. Visual interpretation of maps of the probability of occurrence indicated that the fine‐grained distribution of heathland habitat was detected satisfactorily. However, although the accuracy of the crisp map of combined classifications of actual heathland habitats was high (overall accuracy 0.72), estimated producer's accuracies in terms of proportion of area were low (<0.25). This study provides the first fine‐grained pattern maps of heathland habitats at a national scale, thus highlighting the value of combining environmental and spectral variables derived from open‐remote sensing data and open‐source field databases. These suitability maps could support the identification of heathland habitats in the framework of national conservation policies.
Synthesis and Characterization of 2D Magnesium Oxide Nanoflakes: A Potential Nanomaterial for Effective Phosphate Removal from Wastewater
Authors: Indeewari Kanaththage M. , Dunuweera Shashiprabha P. , Dunuweera Asiri N. , Rajapakse Rajapakse Mudiyanselage Gamini
Published: February 2022

Phosphate containing untreated wastewater, discharged into water bodies, can cause eutrophication, leading to harmful effects on the ecosystem and human health. This study focuses on a simple, low‐cost, and novel approach towards removing excess phosphate ions from aqueous solutions by adsorbing on onto two‐dimensional (2‐D) magnesium oxide nano‐flakes (MONFs). The phosphate removal efficiency was tested with different concentrations of phosphate solutions (2–25 mg L−1), pH levels (3–11), adsorbent dosages (0.025‐0.250 g), and contact times (10‐50 min). The maximum phosphate removal percentage of 100 % was obtained with 50.0 mL of 3 mg L−1 phosphate solution using 0.125 g of the synthesized MONFs with a phosphate absorption capacity of 29.9 mg g−1. Moreover, the adsorption data fit with the Freundlich isotherm, with an R2 value of 0.952. The adsorption kinetic data follow the pseudo‐second‐order model, with an R2 value of 0.995, suggesting that the adsorption process is chemisorption.
Direct Transition from Ultrathin Orthorhombic Dinickel Silicides to Epitaxial Nickel Disilicide Revealed by In Situ Synthesis and Analysis
Authors: Wolf Philipp M. , Pitthan Eduardo , Zhang Zhen , Lavoie Christian , Tran Tuan T. , Primetzhofer Daniel
Published: February 2022

Understanding phase transitions of ultrathin metal silicides is crucial for the development of nanoscale silicon devices. Here, the phase transition of ultrathin (3.6 nm) Ni silicides on Si(100) substrates is investigated using an in situ synthesis and characterization approach, supplemented with ex situ transmission electron microscopy and nano‐beam electron diffraction. First, an ultrathin epitaxial layer and ordered structures at the interface are observed upon room‐temperature deposition. At 290 °C, this structure is followed by formation of an orthorhombic δ‐Ni2Si phase exhibiting long‐range order and extending to the whole film thickness. An unprecedented direct transition from this δ‐Ni2Si phase to the final NiSi2−x phase is observed at 290 °C, skipping the intermediate monosilicide phase. Additionally, the NiSi2−x phase is found epitaxial on the substrate. This transition process substantially differs from observations for thicker films. Furthermore, considering previous studies, the long‐range ordered orthorhombic δ‐Ni2Si phase is suggested to occur regardless of the initial Ni thickness. The thickness of this ordered δ‐Ni2Si layer is, however, limited due to the competition of different orientations of the δ‐Ni2Si crystal. Whether the formed δ‐Ni2Si layer consumes all deposited nickel is expected to determine whether the monosilicide phase appears before the transition to the final NiSi2−x phase.
Experimental investigation of fatigue dissipated energy of self‐compacting rubber concrete with acoustic emission technology
Authors: Ouyang Feng , Ge Fei , Fan Xiangqian , Liu Jueding
Published: February 2022

In this paper, flexural fatigue test of self‐compacting concrete (SCC) with waste tire 0% and 20% rubber content was studied. Meanwhile, the acoustic emission (AE) was used to monitor the whole process of the fatigue. The results show the dissipation energy presents obvious three stages, which are similar to the stiffness attenuation. The plateau value (PV) of radio of dissipated energy change has a double logarithmic linear relationship with fatigue life. Moreover, there is a linear relationship between the dissipated energy and cumulative AE parameters at about half of fatigue life. At last, the relationship between PV value calculated by cumulative AE counts changes and fatigue life is determined. Therefore, AE technology can be used to monitor the fatigue evolution of concrete.
ABCA8 inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by regulating the AMP activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Chunliu , Yang Han , Yu Jinsong , Dai Xiaowei
Published: February 2022

ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) subfamily A member 8 (ABCA8) has been reported to play a vital role in cancer development. Our study aimed to explore the role and the molecular mechanism of ABCA8 in breast cancer (BC) progression. GSE65194, GSE15852, and GSE45827 datasets were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in BC. The diagnosis and prognosis value were determined using ROC curve analysis and Kaplan–Meier plotter, respectively. The relationship between ABCA8 expression and clinicopathological features in BC was analyzed by TCGA. Co‐expressed genes of ABCA8 in BC were screened out through GEPIA and subjected to KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Cell proliferation was evaluated by CCK‐8 and EdU incorporation assays. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression and the changes of the AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway were measured by western blot analysis. Totally 4 overlapping DEGs were identified and all reduced in BC samples. ABCA8 with high diagnostic and prognostic values was selected for further exploration. Low ABCA8 expression was correlated with clinicopathological features in BC patients. ABCA8 overexpression inhibited BC cell proliferation. The top 20 co‐expressed genes of ABCA8 were identified by GEPIA and significantly enriched in AMPK signaling pathway. Inhibition of AMPK/mTOR pathway reversed the suppressive effect of ABCA8 on BC cell growth. These results suggested that ABCA8 overexpression repressed BC cell proliferation through regulating the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
The future for Ontario cider production and consumption: Assessment of Ontario's excise tax regime
Authors: Dhaliwal Sonia , Currie Elliott , Foti Lianne , Chandrakumar Piraveena , Kurian Elizabeth , Motala Moeen , McCarty Steven , George Matthew
Published: February 2022

A competitive tax rate is necessary for products aiming to grow their market share, yet little is known about the cider beverage competitive tax landscape in the Province of Ontario, Canada. This report argues for the adoption of the similar tax treatment of Ontario beer towards Ontario cider. The purpose of assessing current cider tax treatment within Canada is to address the growing concern from local cider producers on this commodity's taxes. An analysis of current trends within the cider market, particularly concerning consumption and trade data, is examined for Canada, the United States, Belgium, France, Denmark, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. In addition, an overview of consumption trends within Europe is assessed. The tax treatment between European alcoholic beverages is compared, with France charging lower tax on Cider than beer to the Netherlands charging over six times the rate on cider at 1.33 CAD/L. In contrast, the United States charges only 0.06 CAD/L on cider versus 0.04 CAD/L on beer. Canada charges 0.32 CAD/L on Cider and 0.24 CAD/L on beer. The findings from Europe's cider analysis suggest restructuring and lowering Ontario's taxation on cider's local production and the multiplier effect on the provincial and national economy. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate a minor decline in the tax rate would generate significantly more tax revenue to the government and, at a 2.4‐time multiplier, a positive effect economic impact of between 14 million and 28 million CAD while generating direct tax to the government of between 278,647 CAD and 479,274 CAD. Recommendations are provided for the Ontario government to implement a tax rate that favors both the government and local farmers and local processors.
The Good Reasons for a Standard Periodic Table of the Chemical Elements
Authors: Schwarz W. H. Eugen , Müller Ulrich , Kraus Florian
Published: February 2022

The periodic depictions of the natural system of elements produced by Mendeleyev and his contemporaries were based on atomic mass A and chemical valence G of the elements then already discovered. In their and in later more refined periodic tables the periodicity was initially highlighted for values of G from 0 to 8; but long tables with 18 groups were soon required to account for the growing number of elements and their chemical properties. The atomic masses (co‐determined by the assorted isotopes of an element) were replaced by the atomic number Z. The current knowledge of the electronic states of atoms and molecules now calls for a standard form of the periodic table which reflects the large energy gaps between the noble‐gas (sp)8 core shells and the electronic open spdf valence shells, which physically determine the chemical periodicity of rows with lengths increasing in double‐steps. A graphic representation as introduced in IUPAC's Red Book has served well for education and research in chemistry. There is presently no need for graphical or other changes, but existing “irregularities” of single atoms or groups of atoms, mainly those of higher values of Z, require dedicated considerations based on the laws of physics which allow to rationalize unexpected deviations from the Aufbau principle and other rules‐of‐thumb.
The Layered Semiconductor Cu(Sb2S3)[AlCl4]
Authors: Grasser Matthias A. , Finzel Kati , Ruck Michael
Published: February 2022

Sb2S3 and CuCl were reacted in the ionic liquid [BMIm]Cl ⋅ 4.4AlCl3 (BMIm=1‐n‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium) at 200 °C. Upon cooling to room temperature, orange‐red colored, air‐sensitive crystals of Cu(Sb2S3)[AlCl4] precipitated. X‐ray diffraction on a single‐crystal revealed an orthorhombic crystal structure, in which cationic [Cu(Sb2S3)]+ layers are separated by tetrahedral [AlCl4]− anions. The uncharged Sb2S3 partial structure consists of one‐dimensional strands with covalent Sb−S single bonds. The copper(I) cation is coordinated by three sulfur atoms and by one of chlorine atoms of the [AlCl4]– anion. An optical band gap of 2.14 eV was deduced from UV/Vis spectra. In very good agreement, a band gap of 2.07 eV results from DFT‐based calculations involving a new implementation of the bifunctional formalism for the exchange energy. By treatment with 0.1 molar hydrochloric acid, AlCl3 was leached from Cu(Sb2S3)[AlCl4] yielding a compound with the presumed composition Cu(Sb2S3)Cl. Hydrolysis at higher pH resulted in Cu2–xS and Sb4O5Cl2.
Metalearning for Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Huisman Mike , van Rijn Jan N. , Plaat Aske
Published: February 2022

Deep neural networks have enabled large breakthroughs in various domains ranging from image and speech recognition to automated medical diagnosis. However, these networks are notorious for requiring large amounts of data to learn from, limiting their applicability in domains where data is scarce. Through metalearning, the networks can learn how to learn, allowing them to learn from fewer data. In this chapter, we provide a detailed overview of metalearning for knowledge transfer in deep neural networks. We categorize the techniques into (i) metric-based, (ii) model-based, and (iii) optimization-based techniques, cover the key techniques per category, discuss open challenges, and provide directions for future research such as performance evaluation on heterogeneous benchmarks.
Metalearning Approaches for Algorithm Selection II
Authors: Brazdil Pavel , van Rijn Jan N. , Soares Carlos , Vanschoren Joaquin
Published: February 2022

This chapter discusses different types of metalearning models, including regression, classification and relative performance models. Regression models use a suitable regression algorithm, which is trained on the metadata and used to predict the performance of given base-level algorithms. The predictions can in turn be used to order the base-level algorithms and hence identify the best one. These models also play an important role in the search for the potentially best hyperparameter configuration discussed in the next chapter. Classification models identify which base-level algorithms are applicable or non-applicable to the target classification task. Probabilistic classifiers can be used to construct a ranking of potentially useful alternatives. Relative performance models exploit information regarding the relative performance of base-level models, which can be either in the form of rankings or pairwise comparisons. This chapter discusses various methods that use this information in the search for the potentially best algorithm for the target task.
Setting Up Configuration Spaces and Experiments
Authors: Brazdil Pavel , van Rijn Jan N. , Soares Carlos , Vanschoren Joaquin
Published: February 2022

This chapter discusses the issues relative to so-called configuration spaces that need to be set up before initiating the search for a solution. It starts by introducing some basic concepts, such as discrete and continuous subspaces. Then it discusses certain criteria that help us to determine whether the given configuration space is (or is not) adequate for the tasks at hand. One important topic which is addressed here ishyperparameter importance, as it helps us to determine which hyperparameters have a high influence on the performance and should therefore be optimized. This chapter also discusses some methods for reducing the configuration space. This is important as it can speed up the process of finding the potentially best workflow for the new task. One problem that current systems face nowadays is that the number of alternatives in a given configuration space can be so large that it is virtually impossible to gather complete metadata. This chapter discusses the issue of whether the system can still function satisfactorily even when the metadata is incomplete. The final part of this chapter discusses some strategies that can be used for gathering metadata that originated in the area of multi-armed bandits, including, for instance, SoftMax, upper confidence bound (UCB) and pricing strategies.
Rethinking the Role of Productive Interactions in Explaining SSH Research Societal Impacts: Towards a Conceptual Framework for Productive Science System Dynamics
Authors: Benneworth Paul , Castro-Martínez Elena , Olmos-Peñuela Julia , Muhonen Reetta
Published: February 2022

In this paper we seek to realise the potential that Spaapen and van Drooge’s productive interactions concept offers, but which we argue has been lost through its operationalisation as a process of ‘counting interactions’. Productive interactions arise through moments of contact between two very different systems (the societal and the scientific), and each system values societal impact in very different ways. Finding mutual value in that interaction is important, and we argue that value in both arises when network arrangements shift, as academic disciplines solve urgent scientific problems and as societies improve living conditions. Productive interactions approach assumes the value-frameworks of the wider networks within which particular knowledge sets become actionable. However, our constructive critique highlights the omission of the wider elements of science and social systems within which productive interactions takes place (and whose dynamics ultimately determine the final scientific and societal impact of that research). Indeed, research evaluation to date has not considered the consequences of the productive interactions in terms of these changing relationships. To contribute to this lacuna, we propose a model that conceptualises a meso-level system comprising interactions between actors within two subsystems, highlighting the importance of coupling between researchers and users, valuation signals given to particular productive interactions from researcher and societal communities and the way these signals in turn embed useful knowledge practices. We apply it to a set of examples of productive interactions in the field of social sciences and humanities (SSH) gathered in the framework of a European project.
Spectral clustering for jet physics
Authors: Cerro Giorgio , Dasmahapatra Srinandan , Day-Hall Henry A. , Ford Billy , Moretti Stefano , Shepherd-Themistocleous Claire H.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We present a new approach to jet definition alternative to clustering methods, such as the anti-kT scheme, that exploit kinematic data directly. Instead the new method uses kinematic information to represent the particles in a multidimensional space, as in spectral clustering. After confirming its Infra-Red (IR) safety, we compare its performance in analysing gg → H125 GeV→ H40 GeVH40 GeV→$$ b\overline{b}b\overline{b} $$
b

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, gg → H500 GeV→ H125 GeVH125 GeV→$$ b\overline{b}b\overline{b} $$
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and gg, $$ q\overline{q} $$
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→$$ t\overline{t} $$
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→$$ b\overline{b}{W}^{+}{W}^{-} $$
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→$$ b\overline{b} jj\mathrm{\ell}{v}_{\mathrm{\ell}} $$
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events from Monte Carlo (MC) samples, specifically, in reconstructing the relevant final states, to that of the anti-kT algorithm. Finally, we show that the results for spectral clustering are obtained without any change in the parameter settings of the algorithm, unlike the anti-kT case, which requires the cone size to be adjusted to the physics process under study.
Higgs boson production and quark scattering amplitudes at high energy through the next-to-next-to-leading power in quark mass
Authors: Liu Tao , Modi Sneh , Penin Alexander A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We study the amplitudes of the quark scattering by an external electromagnetic field and of the light quark mediated Higgs boson production via gluon fusion in the high-energy limit. The asymptotic behavior of the quark form factors is obtained in the double-logarithmic approximation to all orders in strong coupling constant through $$ \mathcal{O}\left({m}_q^3\right) $$
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in the small quark mass expansion and the asymptotic formula is given in a closed analytic form. In the case of the two-gluon Higgs boson form factor we obtain a complete analytic result for the three-loop $$ \mathcal{O}\left({m}_q^3\right) $$
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double-logarithmic term while the all-order analysis is performed in the large-Nc limit of QCD and for the abelian gauge group. An estimate of the high-order high-power light quark mass effect in the Higgs boson production and decay is given.
Relating individual motion sickness levels to subjective discomfort ratings
Authors: de Winkel Ksander N. , Irmak Tuğrul , Kotian Varun , Pool Daan M. , Happee Riender
Published: February 2022

High levels of vehicle automation are expected to increase the risk of motion sickness, which is a major detriment to driving comfort. The exact relation between motion sickness and discomfort is a matter of debate, with recent studies suggesting a relief of discomfort at the onset of nausea. In this study, we investigate whether discomfort increases monotonously with motion sickness and how the relation can best be characterized in a semantic experiment (Experiment 1) and a motion sickness experiment (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, 15 participants performed pairwise comparisons on the subjective discomfort associated with each item on the popular MIsery SCale (MISC) of motion sickness. In Experiment 2, 17 participants rated motion sickness using the MISC during exposures to four sustained motion stimuli, and provided (1) numerical magnitude estimates of the discomfort experienced for each level of the MISC, and (2) verbal magnitude estimates with seven qualifiers, ranging between feeling ‘excellent’ and ‘terrible’. The data of Experiment 1 show that the items of the MISC are ranked in order of appearance, with the exception of 5 (‘severe dizziness, warmth, headache, stomach awareness, and sweating’) and 6 (‘slight nausea’), which are ranked in opposite order. However, in Experiment 2, we find that discomfort associated with each level of the MISC, as it was used to express motion sickness during exposure to a sickening stimulus, increases monotonously; following a power law with an exponent of 1.206. While the results of Experiment 1 replicate the non-linearity found in recent studies, the results of Experiment 2 suggest that the non-linearity is due to the semantic nature of Experiment 1, and that there is a positive monotonous relation between MISC and discomfort in practice. These results support the suitability of MISC to assess motion sickness.
Case report of unusual insertion of the fibularis brevis muscle
Authors: Ruzik Kacper , Westrych Karolina , Konschake Marko , Tubbs R. Shane , Karauda Piotr , Olewnik Łukasz
Published: February 2022

The fibularis brevis and fibularis longus muscles belong to the lateral compartment of the leg. The fibularis brevis is morphologically variable, especially in the number of tendons and place of insertion. Its type of insertion is correlated with the presence of a fibularis digiti quinti, which is also anatomically variable. We present a case study based on dissection of a seventy-three-year-old female cadaver with an unusual insertion of the fibularis brevis muscle. The tendon had three bands inserting into the fifth metatarsal bone. There was a coexisting fibularis digiti quinti, which was fused with the fibularis tertius muscle. Awareness of such anatomical variation could be useful during reconstructive surgery and planning rehabilitation protocols.
Nutrient fluxes from an Arctic seabird colony to the adjacent coastal marine ecosystem
Authors: Finne Eirik A. , Varpe Øystein , Durant Joël M. , Gabrielsen Geir W. , Poste Amanda E.
Published: February 2022

Seabirds are important vectors for nutrient transfer across ecosystem boundaries. In this seasonal study, we evaluate the impact of an Arctic colony (Alkhornet, Svalbard) of Black-legged Kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) and Brünnich’s Guillemots (Uria lomvia) on stream nutrient concentrations and fluxes, as well as utilization by coastal biota. Water samples from seabird-impacted and control streams were collected regularly throughout the melt season (June–September) for nutrient and organic carbon analysis. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N) was used to assess whether seabird-derived nitrogen (N) could be traced into filamentous stream algae and marine algae as well as consumers (amphipods). Concentrations of nitrate (NO3−) and nitrite (NO2−) peaked in July at 9200 µg N L−1 in seabird-impacted streams, 70 times higher than for control streams. Mean concentrations of phosphate (PO43−) in seabird-impacted streams were 21.9 µg P L−1, tenfold higher than in controls. Areal fluxes from seabird-impacted study catchments of NO3− + NO2− and PO43− had estimated ranges of 400–2100 kg N km−2 and 15–70 kg P km−2, respectively. Higher δ15N was found in all biota collected from seabird-impacted sites, indicating utilization of seabird-derived nitrogen. Acrosiphonia sp. from seabird-impacted sites had higher δ15N values (20–23‰ vs. 3–6‰) and lower C:N ratios (10.9 vs. 14.3) than specimens collected from control sites, indicating reliance on seabird-derived nitrogen sources and potentially higher N-availability at seabird-impacted nearshore sites. Our study demonstrates how marine nutrients brought onshore by seabirds also can return to the ocean and be utilized by nearshore primary producers and consumers.
Social identity and risky leisure activities: implications for welfare and policy
Authors: Mannberg Andrea , Sjögren Tomas
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we build on theories in psychology and economics and link positional preferences to private agents’ identification with a social group, and the social norms present in that group. The purpose of our paper is to analyze behavioral, welfare, and policy implications of a link between private agents´ social identity and a risky leisure activity. Our results suggest that, when the outcome of the positional activity is uncertain, the over-consumption result that is associated with positional preferences in a deterministic framework need not apply to all agents in a social equilibrium. The reason is that agents have incentives to act with caution in order to avoid failure when the outcome of the socially valued activity is uncertain. We also show how policy can be used to improve the welfare within a social group where the risky leisure activity is positional.
Using visual feedback to improve hand movement accuracy in confined-occluded spaces in virtual reality
Authors: Wang Yu , Hu Ziran , Yao Shouwen , Liu Hui
Published: February 2022

Accurate and informative hand-object collision feedback is of vital importance for hand manipulation in virtual reality (VR). However, to our best knowledge, the hand movement performance in fully-occluded and confined VR spaces under visual collision feedback is still under investigation. In this paper, we firstly studied the effects of several popular visual feedback of hand-object collision on hand movement performance. To test the effects, we conducted a within-subject user study (n=18) using a target-reaching task in a confined box. Results indicated that users had the best task performance with see-through visualization, and the most accurate movement with the hybrid of proximity-based gradation and deformation. By further analysis, we concluded that the integration of see-through visualization and proximity-based visual cue could be the best compromise between the speed and accuracy for hand movement in the enclosed VR space. On the basis, we designed a visual collision feedback based on projector decal,which incorporates the advantages of see-through and color gradation. In the end, we present demos of potential usage of the proposed visual cue.
Hydrological cycle of the Mediterranean-Black Sea system
Authors: García-García David , Vigo M. Isabel , Trottini Mario , Vargas-Alemañy Juan A. , Sayol Juan-Manuel
Published: February 2022

The Mediterranean-Black Sea system consists of two semi-enclosed basins connected by the Turkish Straits. In turn, the Mediterranean Sea is connected to the Atlantic Ocean through the narrow Strait of Gibraltar. The hydrological cycle of the system is driven by fresh water exchanges between the atmosphere, continents and oceans, and by salty water mass exchange among the ocean basins. Monitoring such water fluxes, especially its time evolution, is essential to understand the water cycle in the region, which is very sensitive to global climate changes and influences the variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which in turn affects the global climate. In this study, we have estimated the hydrological cycle of the Mediterranean-Black Sea system from the time-variable gravity observations performed by the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE Follow-On satellites, and precipitation and evaporation from ERA5 atmospheric reanalysis data for the period 2002–2020. In the Black Sea, rivers introduce an average water volume of 391 ± 12 km3/year, one third of which escape through the atmosphere and two thirds go to the Mediterranean Sea. In the latter, 1787 ± 23 km3/year are lost via net evaporation. The rivers runoff (502 ± 27 km3/year), and the inflow of Atlantic waters (1020 ± 56 km3/year; 0.0323 ± 0.0018 Sv), finally restore the Mediterranean water budget. The balance is not reached instantaneously, and this delay introduces a seasonal variability in all the fluxes. In particular, the net water flux from the Atlantic Ocean increases up to 2660 ± 111 km3/year in August/September, and reverses to − 407 ± 140 km3/year in April/May. On top of the climatology, the mean annual Atlantic water flux varies significantly between 706 and 1262 km3/year.