bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A method for assessing the uncertainty of a secondary dynamic pressure standard using shock tube
Authors: Sarraf Christophe
Published: July 2020

Pressures are often measured in fast transient regimes, even if the transducers are not calibrated in dynamic regimes. If the solutions proposed for primary calibration of the dynamic response of pressure sensors must be fully recognised, secondary methods are also needed to disseminate the standard to final users. A method for assessing measurement uncertainty, carried out by comparison with a reference transducer, traceable to primary standard, is proposed here. A typical application is gas pressure measurement. This paper follows and supplements the work done on the Mach number method in 2018. For this work the reference transducer is calibrated by the ‘collective standard method’ currently used in the ‘Laboratoire de Métrologie Dynamique’( LNE/ENSAM). This primary standard uses steps of pressure as inputs for dynamic pressure calibration that are generated by shock tubes (STs) and fast-opening devices (FODs). The uncertainty on dynamic sensitivity is evaluated from the quasi-static to the low, medium and high-frequency range (up to 10 kHz) using bandwidth comparisons. To calibrate a secondary standard transducer in gas, the method also requires one or two step generators: an ST for high-frequency range calibration and a FOD for the low-frequency range. Concerning the main results of this paper, the transducer to be calibrated and the reference transducer are placed symmetrically on the endplate of an ST. The amplitude of the pressure step generated by the tube is used to excite the transducers. Finally, the uncertainty on the sensitivity in dynamic conditions is determined by comparison with a model expected to be exhaustive. The results are provided as an uncertainty budget assigned frequency by frequency. The question asked in this work concerns the measurand used in secondary calibration: can a pressure step generated by a non-ideal ST be used in the process of calibration by comparison, i.e. for a secondary dynamic calibration? A method is proposed. Since the secondary method is derived directly from the primary one, this paper recaps the primary dynamic calibration method in gas and the budget of the associated uncertainty. Then the paper presents a secondary method and options to overcome the principal default identified in the ST frequency range, namely
the non-uniform pressure fields existing in the tube.
Design, analysis and prototyping of a magnetic energy-harvesting suspension for vehicles
Authors: Zhou Ran , Sun Feng , Yan Mingyin , Jin Junjie , Li Qiang , Xu Fangchao , Zhang Xiaoyou , Nakano Kimihiko
Published: July 2020

With the development of electric vehicles, the energy harvesters of vehicle’s suspensions have been widely investigated. However, most of the existing energy harvesters have replaced the original damper of the suspensions, which reduces vehicle safety. This paper proposes a magnetic energy-harvesting suspension (MEHS) for vehicles, with the advantages of high vehicle safety and a compact structure, which consists of a passive suspension and a harvester. In this paper, the working principle and the structure of the MEHS are introduced. To better analyze the magnetic field, the magnetic flux circuit model is established by combining the magnetic field division method with the magnetic equivalent circuit model. Furthermore, a dynamic model for a two-degree-of-freedom quarter-vehicle with the MEHS is built to analyze the energy-harvesting characteristics and the damping characteristics. A prototype of the quarter-vehicle that is considering the tire stiffness, is designed and manufactured, and the performances are investigated by simulations and experiments with different frequencies, external resistances and amplitudes. The experimental results indicate that the harvested peak power of the MEHS is 1.08 W with a sinusoidal input of 10 Hz and 2 mm. Moreover, the maximum energy-harvesting efficiency of the prototype reaches 67% at the sinusoidal input of 6 Hz and 2 mm. The harvested energy of the MEHS can power some electrical equipment of vehicles.
Long-stroke shape memory alloy restrainers for seismic protection of bridges
Authors: Cao Sasa , Ozbulut Osman E
Published: July 2020

To prevent unseating failures and pounding problems in simply supported bridges, steel restrainers that can limit relative displacements of adjacent spans have commonly been used. This study proposes a shape memory alloy (SMA)-based restrainer that can serve as both energy dissipater and restrainer under cyclic tension and compression loading. The proposed device named as, long-stroke SMA restrainer (LSR), consists of a superelastic SMA bar, a steel tube, and a filler material. The SMA bar provides re-centering force and dissipates energy, while steel tube and the infill material prevent buckling of SMA bar under compression. Taking advantages of large strain capacity of SMAs, the LSRs are designed to accommodate large displacement demands for bridge restrainers. The mechanical response of NiTi SMA bars with a diameter of 12 mm was first studied through uniaxial tension and compression testing. Buckling and post-buckling response of the SMA bars were also characterized. Then, a high-fidelity finite element (FE) model was developed and validated to represent the behavior of SMA bars. Next, the buckling mechanism of proposed LSR was studied through FE simulations and a design methodology for the LSR was developed to prevent buckling. Results shows that the LSR can exhibit stable energy dissipation capabilities with excellent self-centering ability both under tension and compression loading and can serve as an effective restrainer in simply supported bridge structures.
A polycaprolactone/polydopamine nanocomposite with sunlight-induced shape memory effect and solid state plasticity
Authors: Tian Guangming , Zhu Guangming , Xu Shuogui , Pan Longkai
Published: July 2020

A facile photo-cured polycaprolactone (PCL)/polydopamine (PDA) nanocomposite is prepared via thiol-ene reaction. Owing to favorable light-to-thermal transfer of doped polydopamine nanoparticles (PDAPs) in composites, active photo-thermal actuation of the composite is achieved when subjected to simulated sunlight irradiation, the effects of sunlight intensity and PDAPs concentration on the composite’s surface temperature are studied systematically. Solid state plasticity is also achieved by activating the dynamic transesterification reaction within the same polymer network. More importantly, the composite also features sunlight-induced plasticity under a light intensity of 960 mW cm−2. Macroscopically, the flat permanent shape can be reconfigured to a new 3D permanent shape via simulated sunlight, and the reconfigured shape still exhibits excellent elasticity-based shape memory behaviors even after seven cycles of testing. Based on these special properties, the PCL/PDAPs composite is further used in the field of electronic devices. It is expected that the design of PCL-PDAPs composite can pave a simple pathway for the simplification of complex shapes and can be extended to fabricate light-operated actuators.
Bi-SQUID: design for applications
Authors: Kornev Victor K , Kolotinskiy Nikolay V , Mukhanov Oleg A
Published: July 2020

A review of the theory of bi-SQUIDs and the experimental studies of bi-SQUID-based devices is presented. The reported output voltage linearity of the fabricated devices (

∼

40 to 45 dB) is much higher than that observed for dc SQUIDs (

∼

20 dB). Recent numerical simulation evidence indicates that the linearity can be further improved to at least 60 to 70 dB. Results from a wide, multi-parameter optimization analysis are considered in the form of parameter domains for the voltage-response linearity. Thermal–noise influence, load impact and interfacing requirements are examined. Potential applications of the devices are discussed.
Monitoring atmospheric composition and air quality using commercial aircraft - IAGOS
Authors: Clark H L
Published: July 2020

IAGOS (In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System) is a European Research Infrastructure for global observations of atmospheric composition using commercial aircraft. Commercial aircraft are ideal platforms for providing long-term in-situ measurements with high vertical and temporal resolution, particularly at cruise altitude (between 9 and 13 km) in the climate-sensitive region of the atmosphere known as the upper troposphere-lower stratosphere (UTLS). IAGOS also provides landing and take-off profiles at almost 300 airports throughout the world which are of major interest for air quality issues. Fully automated instruments are permanently installed on Airbus A330 aircraft operated by different airlines. Data are collected on about 500 flights per aircraft per year. All the aircraft measure the abundances of many essential climate variables, chiefly ozone and the precursor carbon monoxide, water vapour, clouds and meteorological parameters. Additional instruments can be installed to measure either total odd nitrogen, nitrogen oxides, aerosols, or the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and methane. The data are transmitted in near to real real time to weather services and are freely available for the scientific community, national air quality prediction centres and the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). We describe the importance of these measurements in the monitoring of global atmospheric composition and air quality. In particular, we show examples from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) where IAGOS data are used in the evaluation and improvement of forecasts of air quality over Europe.
Flipping exciton angular momentum with chiral phonons in MoSe2/WSe2 heterobilayers
Authors: Delhomme A , Vaclavkova D , Slobodeniuk A , Orlita M , Potemski M , Basko D M , Watanabe K , Taniguchi T , Mauro D , Barreteau C , Giannini E , Morpurgo A F , Ubrig N , Faugeras C
Published: July 2020

Optical selection rules in monolayers of transition metal dichalcogenides and of their heterostructures are determined by the conservation of the z-component of the total angular momentum—J
Z
= L
Z
+S
Z
– associated with the C3 rotational lattice symmetry which assumes half integer values corresponding, modulo 3, to distinct states. Here we show, based on polarization resolved and low temperature magneto-optical spectroscopy experiments, that the conservation of the total angular momentum in these systems leads to a very efficient exciton-phonon interaction when the coupling is mediated through chiral phonons. We identify these phonons as the Γ point E” modes which despite carrying angular momentum ± 1 are able to induce an excitonic spin-flip of

∓
2

thanks to the C3 symmetry. These experiments reveal the crucial role of electron-phonon interaction in the carrier dynamics of group 6 transition metal dichalcogenides.
Preparation of tetrafluoro-λ6-sulfanyl bridged-bonding perfluoroalkyl phenylethyltrichlorosilane and its application on fabric finishing
Authors: Chang Guangtao , Chen Lei , Li Zhanxiong
Published: July 2020

In this study, one novel perfluoroalkyl silane with tetrafluoro-λ
6-sulfanyl bridging group named 4-(Tridecafluorohexyl sulfur tetrafluoride) Phenylethyl trichlorosilane (PFSTS) was successfully synthesized via fluorination and hydrosilylation. The structure was characterized by FT-IR and NMR Then, the product and the control subject 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (PFOTS) were finished onto PET fabrics through the method of dip-and-pad. The wettabilities of the treated PET fabrics were characterized by Water Contact Angles (WCA) and surface free energies measurements. X-ray Photo electron Spectroscopy (XPS) was used to validate the attachment, together with the chemical composition of the polymers on the surface of treated PET fabrics. The WCAs of PFOTS@PET and PFSTS@PET were 142.2°, 137.3°, while the WCA of untreated PET fabrics is 120° in general, indicating that PFTOS and PFSTS can provide good hydrophobicity by finishing PET fabrics. After the 48 h exposure to accelerated agingUV irradiation, sample of PFSTS@PET show a decreased CA value by 12.5% from 137.3° to 120.1°, while for sample of PFOTS@PET, the percentage of reductionis only 2.8%. It was found that the perfluoroalkyl trichlorosilane that containing –SF4– bridged group exhibited excellent water-repellency properties and had higher potential to UV degrade as possessing weak bond energy of C–S bond, so the PFSTS might act as an eco-friendly alternative to carbon-chain perfluoroalkyl derivatives in water-repellency areas.
Formation of EMT/FAU intergrowth and nanosized SOD zeolites from synthesis gel of zeolite NaX containing ethanol
Authors: Jantarit Nawee , Tayraukham Pimwipa , Osakoo Nattawut , Föttinger Karin , Wittayakun Jatuporn
Published: July 2020

Ethanol can serve as an organic additive in zeolite synthesis due to the ease of availability and simple removal. It can influence the crystallization leading to zeolites with different phases and morphology. This study explores the effect of partial displacement of water in the synthesis gel of zeolite NaX by various amounts of ethanol. With one-pot synthesis, the gels with different ethanol/water molar ratios are crystallized 90 °C for 18 h under a static condition. The products are characterized by several techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), nitrogen sorption analysis, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The ethanol/water molar ratio of 0.045 produces EMT/FAU intergrowth with a hollow structure and undefined shapes. The ratios of 0.412 and 0.628 give the aggregates of nanocrystalline SOD zeolite. Moreover, the molar ratios of 0.101, 0.174 and 0.273 provide a mixture of the three phases. All zeolite products contain both intrinsic micropores and interparticle mesopores. The higher ethanol/water molar ratio in the gel produces the zeolites with the lower Si/Al ratio due to the higher Al incorporation in the zeolite structure. In summary, we demonstrate alternative template-free approaches to synthesize EMT/FAU intergrowth and nanosized SOD zeolite with short crystallization time and low crystallization temperature. The finding is an example of ethanol influence on the crystallization to control the phase and morphology of zeolite.
Biofabricated SnO2nanoparticles using Red Spinach (Amaranthus tricolor L.) extract and the study on photocatalytic and electrochemical sensing activity
Authors: Wicaksono Wiyogo Prio , Sahroni Imam , Saba Annisa Khafiya , Rahman Ristianto , Fatimah Is
Published: July 2020

Biofabrication of SnO2nanoparticles (SnO2NPs) usingAmaranthus tricolor L.) extract has been conducted. Synthesis of the nanoparticles was conducted by refluxing tin chloride dihydrate as SnO2precursor followed by calcination at 400 °C. The formation of SnO2NPs was identified from UV-Visible spectrophotometric analysis and particle size analyzer. The resulting materials were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive x-ray (SEM-EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and diffuse reflectance UV-Visible (UV-DRS). Photocatalytic evaluation of SnO2NPs was carried out in a photodegradation of bromophenol blue (BPB) under photocatalytic and photooxidation mechanism with the presence of H2O2. Physicochemical analyses confirm the formation of SnO2NPs providing the capability to act as photoactive material. The photocatalytic activity studied by UV-Visible spectrophotometric analysis and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) revealed the superior activity of the nanoparticles for decomposition of BPB. The decomposition rate of BPB under photooxidation mechanism is higher than of photocatalysis mechanism. Both mechanisms obey pseudo-second order kinetics and the decomposition was identified from the shifted spectra of treated solution. Furthermore, the electrochemical sensing activity for the detection of heavy metal Hg2+showed an increasing of sensitivity and feasibility of the SnO2/Au electrode compared to the bare Au with the limit of detection of 0.001 970 ppm. This result reveals the facile green synthesis route of SnO2NPs with the promising activities.
Comparative study on the properties and microscopic mechanism of Ti coating and W coating diamond-copper composites
Authors: Huang Shuhui , Guo Hong , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Ximin , Xie Haofeng , Xie Zhongnan , Peng Lijun , Mi Xujun
Published: July 2020

Interface plays a decisive role in metal matrix composites, and the effects of Ti coating and W coating on the properties and microscopic mechanism of diamond-copper composites are compared in this paper. Ti-coated diamond with 50 nm, 100 nm and 150 nm plating thickness and W-coated diamond with 50 nm plating thickness are prepared by using magnetron sputtering. Then infiltration method is carried out to prepare diamond copper composites. SEM, EDS and XRD are used to material microstructure. Three-point bending experiment and flash method are used to test the bending strength and thermal conductivity of the composite material. The study found that, as the thickness of the Ti coating increases, the bending strength of the composites gradually increases, but the thermal conductivity first increases and then decreases. The thermal conductivity of W coated diamond copper composites is higher than that of Ti coated diamond copper composites with the same coating thickness. But bonding strength shows the opposite law. The reason for the above phenomenon is that the mechanism of action between the Ti coating and the W coating and the copper substrate is different at the micro interface of the composites. The research work has important reference value for the interface modification of diamond copper composites.
Pericarp growth dynamics associate with final grain weight in wheat under contrasting plant densities and increased night temperature
Authors: Herrera Jaime , Calderini Daniel F
Published: July 2020

Background and Aims

The pericarp weight comprises <17 % of wheat grain weight at harvest. The pericarp supports the hydration and nutrition of both the embryo and endosperm during early grain filling. However, studies of the pericarp and its association with final grain weight have been scarce. This research studied the growth dynamics of wheat pericarp from anthesis onwards and its relationship to final grain weight under contrasting plant densities and night warming.

Methods

Two spring wheat cultivars contrasting in kernel weight (Bacanora and Kambara) were sown in field conditions during seasons 2012–13 and 2014–15. Both genotypes were grown under contrasting plant density (control, 370 plants m–2; and low plant density, 44 plants m–2) and night temperatures, i.e. at ambient and increased (>6 °C) temperature for short periods before and after anthesis. From anthesis onward, grains were harvested every 3 or 4 d. Grain samples were measured and the pericarp was removed with a scalpel. Whole grain and pericarp fresh and dry weight were weighed with a precision balance. At harvest, 20 grains from ten spikes were weighed and grain dimensions were measured.

Key Results

Fresh weight, dry matter and water content of pericarp dynamics showed a maximum between 110 and 235 °Cd. Maximum dry matter of the pericarp ranged between 4.3 and 5.7 mg, while water content achieved values of up to 12.5 mg. Maximum values and their timings were affected by the genotype, environmental condition and grain position. Final grain weight was closely associated with maximum dry matter and water content of the pericarp.

Conclusions

Maximum pericarp weight is a determinant of grain weight and size in wheat, which is earlier than other traits considered as key determinants of grain weight during grain filling. Better growing conditions increased maximum pericarp weight, while higher temperature negatively affected this trait.
Birmingham Taking the Initiative: Changes and Challenges in Working Differently with Adults
Authors: Fawcett Barbara , Johnson Miranda , Mould Fiona , Ubhi Jaspreet
Published: July 2020

Turning rhetoric into reality and fully embracing the principles and practice of the Care Act 2014 in innovative, citizen-focused and creative ways has been a journey constructively embraced in Birmingham over the last two years. This has been a journey with critical learning points which incorporate theoretical reflection, managerial and practitioner innovation and an emphasis on citizen-focused co-production. This article considers the context, examines the nature of the change process and appraises the findings from the eighteen-month evaluation. All of these learning points and the process of change itself are eminently transferrable to other Local Authorities operating in the four countries which comprise the UK as well as to the international arena.
Metals and molecular carcinogenesis
Authors: Zhu Yusha , Costa Max
Published: July 2020

Many metals are essential for living organisms, but at higher doses they may be toxic and carcinogenic. Metal exposure occurs mainly in occupational settings and environmental contaminations in drinking water, air pollution and foods, which can result in serious health problems such as cancer. Arsenic (As), beryllium (Be), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current concepts of the molecular mechanisms of metal-induced carcinogenesis and focusing on a variety of pathways, including genotoxicity, mutagenesis, oxidative stress, epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone post-translational modification and alteration in microRNA regulation, competition with essential metal ions and cancer-related signaling pathways. This review takes a broader perspective and aims to assist in guiding future research with respect to the prevention and therapy of metal exposure in human diseases including cancer.
Therapeutic Monitoring of Vancomycin for Serious Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections: A Revised Consensus Guideline and Review by the American Society of Health-system Pharmacists, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, and the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists
Authors: Rybak Michael J , Le Jennifer , Lodise Thomas P , Levine Donald P , Bradley John S , Liu Catherine , Mueller Bruce A , Pai Manjunath P , Wong-Beringer Annie , Rotschafer John C , Rodvold Keith A , Maples Holly D , Lomaestro Benjamin
Published: July 2020

Recent clinical data on vancomycin pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics suggest a reevaluation of current dosing and monitoring recommendations. The previous 2009 vancomycin consensus guidelines recommend trough monitoring as a surrogate marker for the target area under the curve over 24 hours to minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC). However, recent data suggest that trough monitoring is associated with higher nephrotoxicity. This document is an executive summary of the new vancomycin consensus guidelines for vancomycin dosing and monitoring. It was developed by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, and the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists vancomycin consensus guidelines committee. These consensus guidelines recommend an AUC/MIC ratio of 400–600 mg*hour/L (assuming a broth microdilution MIC of 1 mg/L) to achieve clinical efficacy and ensure safety for patients being treated for serious methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.
Pathological nodal disease defines survival outcomes in patients with lung cancer with tumour major pathological response following neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Corsini Erin M , Weissferdt Annikka , Pataer Apar , Zhou Nicolas , Antonoff Mara B , Hofstetter Wayne L , Mehran Reza J , Rajaram Ravi , Rice David C , Roth Jack A , Vaporciyan Ara A , Walsh Garrett L , Cascone Tina , Heymach John V , Swisher Stephen G , Sepesi Boris
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVES

Major pathological response (MPR) is prognostic of outcomes for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer following neoadjuvant chemotherapy and is used as the primary end point in neoadjuvant immunotherapy trials. We studied the influence of pathological nodal disease on patterns and timing of recurrence among patients with MPR.

METHODS

Patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy for stages I–III non-small-cell lung cancer were identified. Surgical specimens were histopathologically examined for tumour viability, categorized as ≤10% viability (MPR) or >10% (NoMPR). Overall survival and disease-free survival were evaluated with emphasis upon MPR and pathological nodal disease.

RESULTS

Among 307 patients, 58 (19%) had MPR within primary tumour and 42 (14%) had MPRypN0. In the MPR group, the frequency of cN0 and cN+ disease was 18 (31%) and 40 (69%); similarly, the frequency of ypN0, ypN1 and ypN2 was 72% (42/58), 16% (9/58) and 12% (7/58), respectively. When evaluating only those with MPR, recurrence rates among those with MPRypN0, MPRypN1 and MPRypN2 were 33% (14/42), 44% (4/9) and 71% (5/7) (P = 0.16). The median time-to-recurrence in MPRypN0, MPRypN1 and MPRypN2 was 40, 10 and 14 months (P = 0.006). Distant recurrences were less common among those with MPRypN0 [MPRypN0, 26% (11/42); MPRypN1, 44% (4/9); MPRypN2, 71% (5/7); P = 0.047]. Though the median disease-free survival was prolonged among those with MPR vs NoMPR (120 vs 25 months, P < 0.0001), only those with MPRypN0 had prolonged disease-free survival in comparison to other groups upon pairwise comparisons, while MPRypN+ experienced no benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

MPRypN0 represents the most favourable surrogate end point following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Patients with ypN1-2 are at the risk of early recurrence regardless of primary tumour MPR, warranting intensive surveillance and consideration for additional adjuvant therapy. We highlight that MPRypN0 is the most rigorous end point and should be considered as a surrogate end point in future neoadjuvant trials.
Computer-aided indirect bonding versus traditional direct bonding of orthodontic brackets: bonding time, immediate bonding failures, and cost-minimization. A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Czolgosz Izabela , Cattaneo Paolo M , Cornelis Marie A
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The primary aim of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the time for bracket bonding using either direct or computer-aided indirect bonding; a secondary aim was to assess immediate bracket debondings and cost minimization.

Methods

Consecutive patients were randomly allocated to two groups (blocks of four, online-generated sequence) using a split-mouth design with a direct and a computer-aided indirect bonding method: group 1 (upper right and lower left quadrants: indirect bonding; upper left and lower right quadrants: direct bonding) or group 2 (opposite situation). The primary outcome was difference in time spent for bonding brackets. The secondary outcome was immediate bracket debondings (at the bonding appointment). Time for indirect bonding was recorded in two steps: digital bracket placement and clinical bonding procedure. Outcome assessment was blinded. Friedman’s ANOVA test was used to assess differences in bonding time. Chi-square test was used to compare immediate debondings. A cost-minimization analysis was undertaken.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were randomized to group 1 or 2. Ten patients were excluded: 15 patients were analyzed in group 1 and 12 in group 2. Clinical chair time for bonding half a mouth was significantly shorter for computer-aided indirect bonding (12 minutes 52 seconds) than for direct bonding (16 minutes 47 seconds) (P < 0.001). When adding the time for digital bracket placement, the total bonding time (28 minutes 14 seconds) was longer for indirect bonding than for direct bonding (P < 0.001). There was no single immediate debonding with the direct bonding method, while 14 brackets were lost with the indirect bonding method (5.1 per cent) (P = 0.0001). Cost-minimization analysis showed that computer-aided indirect bonding was more expensive than direct bonding.

Conclusions

The clinical chair time was significantly shorter for computer-aided indirect bonding than for direct bonding. However, the total bonding time for computer-aided indirect, including digital bracket placement, was longer than for direct bonding. There were significantly more immediate debondings with computer-aided indirect bonding than with direct bonding. Under these conditions, computer-aided indirect bonding was more expensive than direct bonding.

Registration

This trial was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (University of Aarhus Protocol Record 10101).

Protocol

The protocol was not published before trial commencement.
Harvesting the complex pathways of antibiotic production and resistance of soil bacilli for optimizing plant microbiome
Authors: Hou Qihui , Kolodkin-Gal Ilana
Published: July 2020

A sustainable future increasing depends on our capacity to utilize beneficial plant microbiomes to meet our growing needs. Plant microbiome symbiosis is a hallmark of the beneficial interactions between bacteria and their host. Specifically, colonization of plant roots by biocontrol agents and plant growth-promoting bacteria can play an important role in maintaining the optimal rhizosphere environment, supporting plant growth and promoting its fitness. Rhizosphere communities confer immunity against a wide range of foliar diseases by secreting antibiotics and activating plant defences. At the same time, the rhizosphere is a highly competitive niche, with multiple microbial species competing for space and resources, engaged in an arms race involving the production of a vast array of antibiotics and utilization of a variety of antibiotic resistance mechanisms. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms that govern antibiotic production and resistance in the rhizosphere is of great significance for designing beneficial communities with enhanced biocontrol properties. In this review, we used Bacillus subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens as models to investigate the genetics of antibiosis and the potential for its translation of into improved plant microbiome performance.
Effectiveness of a Technology-Enhanced Integrated Care Model for Frail Older People: A Stepped-Wedge Cluster Randomized Trial in Nursing Homes
Authors: Kim Hongsoo , Jung Young-il , Kim Gi-Soo , Choi Hyoungshim , Park Yeon-Hwan
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an information and communication technologies (ICT)-enhanced, multidisciplinary integrated care model, called Systems for Person-centered Elder Care (SPEC), on frail older adults at nursing homes.

Research Design and Methods

SPEC was implemented at 10 nursing homes in South Korea in random order using a stepped-wedge design. Data were collected on all participating older residents in the homes before the first implementation and until 6 months after the last implementation. The 21-month SPEC intervention guided by the chronic care model (CCM) consists of 5 strategies: comprehensive geriatric assessment, care planning, optional interdisciplinary case conferences, care coordination, and a cloud-based ICT tool along with a free messaging app. The primary outcome was quality of care measured by a composite quality indicator (QI) from the interRAI assessment system. Usual care continued over the control periods. Nursing home staff were not blinded to the intervention.

Results

There were a total of 482 older nursing home residents included in the analysis. Overall quality of care measured by the composite QI was significantly improved (adjusted mean difference: −0.025 [95% CI: −0.037 to −0.014, p < .0001]). The intervention effect was consistent in the subgroup analysis by cognition and activities of daily living. There were no important adverse events or side effects.

Discussion and Implications

The SPEC, a CCM-guided, ICT-supported, multidisciplinary integrated care management intervention, can improve the quality of care measured by health and functional outcomes for frail older persons residing in nursing homes with limited health care provision.

Clinical Trials Registration Number

ISRCTN11972147
Towards understanding relationships between atmospheric pressure variations and long-period horizontal seismic data: a case study
Authors: Alejandro A C B , Ringler A T , Wilson D C , Anthony R E , Moore S V
Published: July 2020

Variations in atmospheric pressure have long been known to introduce noise in long-period (>10 s) seismic records. This noise can overwhelm signals of interest such as normal modes and surface waves. Generally, this noise is most pronounced on the horizontal components where it arises due to tilting of the seismometer in response to changes in atmospheric pressure. Several studies have suggested methodologies for correcting unwanted pressure-induced noise using collocated microbarograph records. However, how applicable these corrections are to varying geologic settings and installation types (e.g. vault versus post-hole) is unclear. Using coefficients obtained by solving for the residuals of these corrections, we can empirically determine the sensitivity of instruments in a specific location to the influences of pressure. To better understand how long-period, pressure-induced noise changes with time and emplacement, we examine horizontal seismic records along with barometric pressure at five different Global Seismographic Network stations, all with multiple broadband seismometers. We also analyse three Streckeisen STS-2 broadband seismometers, which are collocated with a microbarograph, at the Albuquerque Seismological Laboratory. We observe periods of high magnitude-squared-coherence (γ2-coherence; γ2 > 0.8) between the seismic and pressure signals which fluctuate through time, frequency, and even between seismic instruments in the same vault. These observations suggest that these tilt-generated signals are highly sensitive to very local (<10 m) site effects. However, we find that in cases where instruments are not located at a large depth (<100 m), the pressure-induced noise is polarized in a nearly constant direction that is consistent with local topographic features or the geometry of the vault. We also find that borehole instruments at a large depth (>100 m) appear to be unaffected by pressure-loading mechanisms outlined by Sorrells (1971) but possibly by Newtonian attraction. Correlating the induced-noise polarization direction with times of high coherence, we work to identify sensors that are ultimately limited by pressure-induced horizontal noise as well as period bands that can benefit from pressure corrections. We find that while the situation is complex, each sensor appears to have its own unique response to pressure. Our findings suggest that we can determine empirical relationships between pressure and induced tilt on a case by case basis.
Meat intake and cancer risk: prospective analyses in UK Biobank
Authors: Knuppel Anika , Papier Keren , Fensom Georgina K , Appleby Paul N , Schmidt Julie A , Tong Tammy Y N , Travis Ruth C , Key Timothy J , Perez-Cornago Aurora
Published: July 2020

Background

Red and processed meat have been consistently associated with colorectal cancer risk, but evidence for other cancer sites and for poultry intake is limited. We therefore examined associations between total, red and processed meat and poultry intake and incidence for 20 common cancers.

Methods

We analyzed data from 474 996 participants (54% women) in UK Biobank. Participants were aged 37–73 years and cancer-free at baseline (2006–10). Multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine associations between baseline meat intake and cancer incidence. Trends in risk across the baseline categories were calculated, assigning re-measured intakes from a subsample.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 6.9 years, 28 955 participants were diagnosed with malignant cancer. After correction for multiple testing, red and processed meat combined, and processed meat, were each positively associated with colorectal cancer risk [hazard ratio (HR) per 70 g/day higher intake of red and processed meat 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.14–1.53; HR per 20 g/day higher intake of processed meat 1.18, 1.03–1.31] and red meat was associated with colon cancer risk (HR per 50 g/day higher intake of red meat 1.36, 1.13–1.64). Positive associations of red meat intake with colorectal and prostate cancer, processed meat intake with rectal cancer and poultry intake with cancers of the lymphatic and haematopoietic tissues did not survive multiple testing.

Conclusions

Higher intake of red and processed meat was specifically associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer; there was little evidence that meat intake was associated with risk of other cancers.
Predictors of Distinct Trajectories of Medical Responsibility in Youth with Spina Bifida
Authors: Kayle Mariam , Chu David I , Stern Alexa , Pan Wei , Holmbeck Grayson N
Published: July 2020

Objective

To determine if there are distinct developmental trajectories of medical responsibility in youth with spina bifida (SB) across ages 8–17 years and to identify condition-related, parental, and family systems predictors of membership in these trajectory groups.

Methods

Participants were 140 youth with SB and their parents who participated in four waves of a longitudinal study across 6 years (ages 8–15 years at Time 1). Multi-method (questionnaires and observed family interactions) and multi-respondent assessments were conducted during home visits.

Results

Findings revealed that there were two distinct developmental trajectories that characterized this sample, with one being labeled “high increasing” (two thirds of the sample) and one labeled “low increasing” (one third of the sample). Most predictor variables were significantly associated with trajectory group membership, with the exception of ethnicity, SES, and measures of conflict. When all significant univariate predictors were included in the same model, only intelligence quotient (IQ), family stress, and gender were retained as significant.

Conclusions

Most youth exhibited relatively rapid increases in responsibility over the course of late childhood and adolescence, but there was a smaller portion of the sample that did not exhibit this type of developmental trajectory. The magnitude of the IQ effect on group differentiation appeared to attenuate the effects of most other predictors. It will be important for clinicians working with youth with SB to recognize that the transfer of medical responsibility from parent to child cannot be expected to unfold in the same manner for all families of youth with SB.
Benign cyst with xanthogranulomatous inflammation involving the transverse colon and the common iliac artery
Authors: Corless Kevin , Samy Amir , Kamil Ahmed , Hogan Aisling Maria
Published: July 2020

Xanthogranulomatous inflammation (XGI) is a rare process. Colonic XGI is extremely rare. We present a case report of XGI arising within an intra-abdominal cyst involving the transverse colon. A 28-year-old man presented with abdominal discomfort. He underwent a computed tomography abdomen–pelvis, which found three subcutaneous collections and a large cystic intra-abdominal structure. The decision was made for resection. Intraoperatively, the cyst originated from the pelvis and was adherent to the surrounding tissues. Histology from the lesion revealed XGI extending into the surrounding tissue. XGI is a rare inflammatory condition. Clinically, it can be difficult to distinguish XGI from an infiltrative malignancy. Therefore, it is usually necessary to obtain a pathological diagnosis of XGI. This case describes an atypical cystic lesion with XGI involving the transverse colon. Although rare, it should be considered in the potential differential diagnosis of an infective or malignant mesenteric cyst.
Global macroeconomic cooperation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: a roadmap for the G20 and the IMF
Authors: McKibbin Warwick , Vines David
Published: July 2020

The COVID-19 crisis has caused the greatest collapse in global economic activity since 1720. Some advanced countries have mounted a massive fiscal response, both to pay for disease-fighting action and to preserve the incomes of firms and workers until the economic recovery is under way. But there are many emerging market economies which have been prevented from doing what is needed by their high existing levels of public debt and—especially—by the external financial constraints which they face. We argue in the present paper that there is a need for international cooperation to allow such countries to undertake the kind of massive fiscal response that all countries now need, and that many advanced countries have been able to carry out. We show what such cooperation would involve. We use a global macroeconomic model to explore how extraordinarily beneficial such cooperation would be. Simulations of the model suggest that GDP in the countries in which extra fiscal support takes place would be around two and a half per cent higher in the first year, and that GDP in other countries in the world be more than one per cent higher. So far, such cooperation has been notably lacking, in striking contrast with what happened in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis in 2008. The necessary cooperation needs to be led by the Group of Twenty (G20), just as happened in 2008–9, since the G20 brings together the leaders of the world’s largest economies. This cooperation must also necessarily involve a promise of international financial support from the International Monetary Fund, otherwise international financial markets might take fright at the large budget deficits and current account deficits which will emerge, creating fiscal crises and currency crises and so causing such expansionary policies which we advocate to be brought to an end.
Corporate Money Demand
Authors: Gao Xiaodan , Whited Toni M , Zhang Na
Published: July 2020

We document a hump-shaped relation between corporate cash and both real and nominal interest rates in both aggregate and firm-level data. We rationalize this result in a model where firms finance investment with cash and risky debt. The risky rate rises endogenously with the risk-free rate, spurring precautionary cash demand. Simultaneously, foregone interest lowers cash demand. The first mechanism dominates at low interest rates, and the second at high interest rates. The model matches several data moments and reproduces a nonmonotonic cash–interest relation. This nonmonotonicity implies that interest rates are unlikely to be behind the recent rise in corporate cash.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies on the association of occupational exposure to free crystalline silica and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Morotti Alberto , Sollaku Irena , Catalani Simona , Franceschini Franco , Cavazzana Ilaria , Fredi Micaela , Sala Emma , De Palma Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Some evidence suggests that exposure to free crystalline silica may contribute to the risk of developing SLE. A systematic search was carried out for all published epidemiological studies concerning this association. A meta-analysis was conducted on relevant studies.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE databases for original articles published from 1960 to November 2019 in any language. In addition, we also searched the reference lists of included studies manually for additional relevant articles. Finally, seven studies were included in the systematic review and six studies in the meta-analysis (four case–control and two cohort studies). The odds ratio and 95% CI were calculated using a random effect meta-analysis.

Results

The meta-analysis of the studies, applying a random effect model, yielded an overall odds ratio of 3.49 (95% CI, 1.24, 9.83), with I2 = 92.36% (pronounced heterogeneity). We also stratified the meta-analysis by study design; case–control studies: odds ratio 1.85 (95% CI, 0.96, 3.59) with I2 = 75.92%; and cohort studies (cases with silicosis): odds ratio 9.71 (95% CI, 1.13, 83.58) with I2 = 72.65%.

Conclusions

The obtained results support the hypothesis of a possible association between occupational exposure to free crystalline silica and SLE, in particular at higher exposure levels, known to induce silicosis. The studies that have investigated this association are still scarce and the heterogeneity between the studies remains high. New studies are deemed necessary to confirm the association.
Axial spondyloarthritis 10 years on: still looking for the lost tribe
Authors: Barnett Rosemarie , Ingram Thomas , Sengupta Raj
Published: July 2020

Despite the publication of various recommendations, quality standards and referral strategies to promote early diagnosis in axial SpA (axSpA) over the last decade, there remains a significant delay to diagnosis, leading to a lost tribe of undiagnosed, untreated patients with persistent back pain and axSpA symptoms. This review discusses the various factors contributing to diagnostic delay in axSpA, while providing recommendations to improve the diagnostic pathway, for example use of the online Spondyloarthritis Diagnosis Evaluation (SPADE) tool (http://www.spadetool.co.uk/). Significant shortcomings exist at both the primary and secondary care level, with healthcare professionals often lacking knowledge and awareness of axSpA. Myths regarding the classical signs and symptoms still prevail, including the perception of axSpA as a male disease, only occurring in individuals who are HLA-B27 positive with raised inflammatory markers. Individuals within this lost tribe of undiagnosed patients are likely lacking adequate treatment and are thereby at risk of worse clinical outcomes. It is therefore vital that public health initiatives are implemented to improve education of healthcare professionals and to ensure early specialist referral, to ultimately improve the lives of patients with axSpA.
The Effects of High Stakes Educational Testing on Enrollments in an Era of Hyper-Expansion: Cross-National Evidence, 1960–2010
Authors: Furuta Jared , Schofer Evan , Wick Shawn
Published: July 2020

How do national high-stakes exams affect educational expansion across the world? High-stakes exams are conventionally viewed as systems of exclusion that constrain enrollments. In this paper, we situate exams within a broader historical and institutional context and argue that the constraining effect of exams on educational enrollments is a recent phenomenon. Exam systems diffused globally at a time when schooling was a limited enterprise, linked to just a few occupational roles. The later emergence of more inclusive visions of education, culminating in the Education for All (EFA) movement, propelled rapid global educational expansion. In this context, national high-stakes exam systems institutionalize earlier logics of selective education and consequently blunt the impact of more recent expansionary norms. Using panel regression models and a newly constructed dataset of 142 countries from 1960 to 2010, we show that high-stakes exams are associated with lower enrollments. However, this association is strongest in recent years, and exams interact negatively with measures of international pro-educational norms and pressures on nation-states. These findings are consistent with our historical/institutional argument: Exams constrain enrollments in recent years, in part by rendering nations less responsive to global expansionary pressures.