bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability evaluation of concrete‐filled steel tube arch bridge based on DBN‐PSOSA hybrid algorithm
Authors: Lu Pengzhen , Xu Zijie , Hong Tao , Wu Ying , Li Dengguo
Published: May 2021

When traditional response surface method is used to evaluate the reliability of concrete‐filled steel tubular arch bridge, due to its complex structure and highly nonlinear implicit function, the response surface fitting accuracy is not high, and the reliability accuracy is difficult to meet the requirements of design specifications. In order to solve the above problems, this paper chooses dynamic Bayesian networks (DBN) which is suitable for solving the problem of multiple state unit or system uncertainty to build implicit function of the response surface function. And this paper combines DBN and particle swarm optimization algorithm based on simulated annealing algorithm (PSOSA) to improve efficiency of model parameter optimization. It can make the construction of implicit function simulate the real structure of the limit state function. Then this paper verifies the suitability for this kind of complex structure reliability assessment of DBN‐PSOSA hybrid algorithm. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, and the reliability of a concrete filled steel tube arch bridge project is evaluated. The results show that this method improves the calculation accuracy and efficiency.
The Interactional Organization of Video‐Mediated Collaborative Writing: Focus on Repair Practices
Authors: Balaman Ufuk
Published: May 2021

Computer‐supported collaborative writing in online interactional settings has long been a central research topic in TESOL at the interface of social interaction and writing. Although some studies focused on side‐by‐side participants’ social interactions for the co‐production of texts, geographically dispersed participants’ video‐mediated interactional practices for collaborative writing in digital spaces have largely remained a research gap. Using multimodal conversation analysis for the examination of screen recordings data, the study sets out to explore the interactional organization of collaborative writing in Google Docs via Skype. More specifically, the study limits its focus to the co‐construction of a single sentence within a second language telecollaborative writing task. The close analysis of the procedural unfolding of the writing activity shows that repair organization is central to the practice of collaborative writing and the participants move the text forward largely in an environment of repair sequences. This also brings further insights into the complex ecology of video‐mediated interactions for writing activities in digital spaces. All in all, this study describes the discursive aspect of computer‐supported collaborative writing in English as a foreign language and provides implications for future practices.
Convergent Bayesian global fits of 4D composite Higgs models
Authors: Carragher Ethan , Handley Will , Murnane Daniel , Stangl Peter , Su Wei , White Martin , Williams Anthony G.
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Models in which the Higgs boson is a composite pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone boson offer attractive solutions to the Higgs mass naturalness problem. We consider three such models based on the minimal SO(5) → SO(4) symmetry breaking pattern, and perform convergent global fits on the models under a Bayesian framework in order to find the regions of their parameter spaces that best fit a wide range of constraints, including recent Higgs measurements. We use a novel technique to analyse the fine-tuning of the models, quantifying the tuning as the Kullback-Leibler divergence from the prior to the posterior probability on the parameter space. Each model is found to be able to satisfy all constraints at the 3σ level simultaneously. As a by-product of the fits, we analyse the collider phenomenology of our models in these viable regions. In two of the three models, we find that the gg → H → γγ cross section is less than ∼90% that predicted by the SM, which is already in slight tension with experiment and could potentially be ruled out in the future high-luminosity run of the LHC. In addition, the lightest fermions F arising from the new strong dynamics in these models are seen in general to lie above ∼1.1 TeV, with the F → tW+ and F → $$ \overline{b}{W}^{+} $$

b
¯

W
+

decays offering particularly promising channels for probing these models in future collider searches.
Nigerian Surgical Trainees’ Work Schedule: It is Time for a Change!
Authors: Ubom Akaninyene Eseme , Adesunkanmi AbdulHafiz Oladapo , Ndegbu Chinedu Udochukwu , Balogun Simon Adewale , Ajekwu Samuel Chibuzo , Sowemimo Sinmidele Olamiposi , Olugbami Adebayo Moses , Ekhaiyeme Philip Ade , Olasehinde Olalekan , Awowole Ibraheem Olayemi , Ijarotimi Omotade Adebimpe
Published: May 2021

Background

Unregulated work schedules have deleterious effects on trainees’ productivity and patients’ safety. For these reasons, duty hours have been capped in many developed countries. Such regulations, however, appear to be lacking in many parts of Africa, and the effects of unregulated work hours in this part of the world have only been scantily documented. This study evaluated the work schedule of Nigerian surgical trainees, and its impact on their wellbeing, as well as assessed the perception of trainees towards capped duty hours.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of 650 Nigerian Resident Doctors in surgical specialties was conducted in November 2020. Enquiries were made about their work schedules using a purpose‐designed questionnaire, developed using Google Forms®. The data were analysed using the IBM SPSS version 23.

Results

The mean weekly work hours of surgical residents was 122.72 ± 34.17 h. Majority (228, 40.4%) of the residents had cumulative call hours of ≥ 72 h per week. One‐half (283, 50.1%) of them worked continuously for up to 48–72 h during calls, with mean daily sleep hours of 3.53 ± 1.42 h during calls. The majority (558, 98.8%) of respondents had post‐call clinical responsibilities. Seventy‐five percent of the respondents reported hazards from prolonged work hours, and an overwhelming majority (530, 93.8%) desire official limits on work hours.

Conclusion

Prolonged, unregulated work schedules appear to be the norm among Nigerian surgical trainees. This trend calls for urgent measures, to avoid potentially catastrophic consequences on both physicians and patients.
The characteristics and related factors of insomnia among postoperative patients with gastric cancer: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Zhu Guang-hui , Li Juan , Li Jie , Xu Bo-wen , Wang He-ping , Wang Xin-miao , Hu Jia-qi , Dai Ming-hao
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the characteristics and related factors of insomnia of patients after operation for gastric cancer.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was carried out and finally 115 patients with insomnia after operation for gastric cancer were included. The general information, gastric cancer-related information, sleep quality, and other symptoms were investigated.

Results

① The Pittsburgh sleep quality index score of most insomnia patients after gastric cancer surgery was 11-15 points, and the sleep quality rating was “poor”. ② The sleep quality of patients with insomnia after surgery for gastric cancer is related to the number of chemotherapy cycles, fatigue, and depression. ③ The probability of reduced sleep quality with the number of chemotherapy cycles >6 is 3.640 times that of ≤6. The probability of reduced sleep quality during moderate to severe fatigue was 4.390 times that of patients with no or mild fatigue.

Conclusion

Attention to related factors may be associated with improvement of sleep quality in patients with gastric cancer after surgery.
Integration of maintenance scheduling and planning for large-scale asset fleets
Authors: Schulze Spüntrup Frederik , Ave Giancarlo Dalle , Imsland Lars , Harjunkoski Iiro
Published: May 2021

Large fleets of engineering assets that are subject to ongoing degradation are posing the challenge of how and when to perform maintenance. For a given case study, this paper proposes a formulation for combined scheduling and planning of maintenance actions. A hierarchical approach and a two-stage approach (with either uniform or non-uniform time grid) are considered and compared to each other. The resulting discrete-time linear programming model follows the Resource Task Network framework. Asset deterioration is considered linearly and tackled with an enumerator-based formulation. Advantages of the model are its computational efficiency, scalability, extendability and adaptability. The results indicate that combined maintenance planning and scheduling can be solved in appropriate time and with appropriate accuracy. The decision-support that is delivered helps the choice of the specific maintenance action to perform and proposes when to conduct it. The paper makes a case for the benefits of optimally combining long-term planning and short-term scheduling in industrial-sized problems into one system.
IgG4-Related Disease as Mimicker of Malignancy
Authors: Zhou WanLi , Murray Timothy , Cartagena Liliana , Lim Howard , Schaeffer David F. , Slack Graham W. , Skinnider Brian F. , Lam Eric , Irvine Robert , Chung Stephen , Mattman Andre , Chang Silvia D. , Carruthers Mollie N. , Chen Luke Y. C.
Published: May 2021

Background

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an immune-mediated disease that may present as a tumefactive lesion in nearly any organ. These mass lesions often resemble malignancy both clinically and radiologically, and some patients undergo surgical resection which could possibly be avoided with early recognition of IgG4-RD. We performed a retrospective single-center study examining how many patients with IgG4-RD were initially believed to have malignancy, with particular attention to those who underwent potentially avoidable surgical procedures.

Methods

Sixty-three patients with biopsy confirmed IgG4-related disease were included. Clinical, laboratory, radiological, and histological data were collected and analyzed.

Results

Over 60% of patients (38/63) were initially thought to have a malignancy when they initially presented with symptomatic IgG4-RD. The most common types of malignancy suspected were lymphoma (18/38) and pancreatic cancer (11/38). Of the 38 patients with suspected malignancy, 14 underwent an invasive intervention either to alleviate the severity of their symptoms or as treatment for their presumed malignancy. These included Whipple resection/attempted Whipple (3), nephrectomy (3), bile duct resection and reconstruction (1), removal of other abdominal/retroperitoneal masses (3), and stenting of obstructed organs (4).

Conclusion

IgG4-RD should be on the differential diagnosis of patients with mass lesions, in particular those with pancreatic masses and obstructive jaundice, extensive lymphadenopathy, or retroperitoneal masses. Oncologists and other physicians involved in cancer care should be aware of the various manifestations and diagnostic approach to IgG4-RD in order to provide accurate diagnosis and minimize unnecessary invasive procedures. While some procedures in this study, such as stenting of obstructed organs, were required regardless of diagnosis, others could have potentially been avoided or attenuated with early recognition of IgG4-RD.  Patients with mass lesions suspicious for IgG4-RD should have serum protein electrophoresis, IgG subclass measurement, and, where possible, tissue biopsy before undergoing major surgical resection. Consultation with a physician experienced in IgG4-RD is recommended.
The Idea of Art Music in a Commercial World, 1800-1930
Authors: Biddlecombe George , Grainger Hilary J , Gallo Denise , Hennessy Wolter Catherine , Montemorra Marvin Roberta , Pasler Jann , Ronzani Michela , Solomon Jon , Sposato Jeffrey S. , Vazsonyi Nicholas , Wright David C.H.
Published: May 2021

Art and money, culture and commerce, have long been seen as uncomfortable bedfellows. Indeed, the connections between them have tended to resist full investigation, particularly in the musical sphere.The Idea of Art Music in a Commercial World, 1800-1930, is a collection of essays that present fresh insights into the ways in which art music, i.e., classical music, functioned beyond its newly established aesthetic purpose (art for art's sake) and intersected with commercial agendas in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century culture. Understanding how art music was portrayed and perceived in a modernizing marketplace, and how culture and commerce interacted, are the book's main goals. In this volume, international scholars from musicology and other disciplines address a rangeof unexplored topics, including the relationship of sacred music with commerce in the mid nineteenth century, the role of music in urban cultural development in the early twentieth, and the marketingof musical repertories, performers and instruments across time and place, to investigate what happened once art music began to be understood as needing to exist within the wider framework of commercially oriented culture. Historical case studies present contrasting topics and themes that not only vary geographically and ideologically but also overlap in significant ways, pushing back the boundaries of the 'music as commerce' discussion. Through diverse, multidisciplinary approaches, the volume opens up significant paths for conversation about how musical concepts, practices and products wereshaped by interrelationships between culture and commerce. CHRISTINA BASHFORD is Associate Professor of Musicology at the University of Illinois. ROBERTA MONTEMORRA MARVIN is Director of the Opera Studies Forum in the Obermann Center for Advanced Studies at the University of Iowa, where she is also on the faculty. CONTRIBUTORS: Christina Bashford, George Biddlecombe, Denise Gallo, David Gramit, Catherine Hennessy Wolter, Roberta Montemorra Marvin, Fiona Palmer, Jann Pasler, Michela Ronzani, Jon Solomon, Jeffrey S. Sposato, Nicholas Vazsonyi, David Wright
How Hayekian is Sunstein's behavioral economics?
Authors: Sugden Robert
Published: May 2021

I comment on Sunstein's paper proposing ‘Hayekian behavioural economics’. In essence, Sunstein is merely renaming a familiar approach to normative economics, initiated in Sunstein and Thaler's seminal 2003 paper. I argue that this approach cannot fairly be described as in the spirit of Hayek's work. Sunstein's approach is based on a ‘constructivist’ conception of rationality that Hayek consistently criticized. Although both Hayek and Sunstein address ‘knowledge problems’, the two problems are fundamentally different. I develop what I claim are truly Hayekian critiques of Sunstein's claim that fuel economy mandates can be more Hayekian than carbon taxes.
More paternalism in the regulation of consumer financial investments? Private sector duties and public goods analysis
Authors: Chiu Iris H-Y
Published: May 2021

Paternalistic forms of regulation for the retail investment market have been gradual and restrained, even though significant gaps exist between investors’ needs and market-based provision. As ordinary citizens reckon with a variety of savings needs and become financial citizens responsible for their own financial welfare provision, financial health is not merely an issue of individual fortunes but a social need. Adverse financial welfare consequences can at scale become a social issue, as is reflected in the social demands and critique entailing from the collapse of London and Capital Finance in the UK. The need for more regulatory paternalism goes beyond preventing mis-selling, and the outworking of welfare beyond point-of-sale remains relatively unconsidered. Post-sale welfare is, however, increasingly recognised for consumer credit and is slower to catch on in relation to savings needs and investments. This paper advocates that the regulator should not remain ambivalent about the need for more paternalistic interventions. Paternalistic protection is not only about shifting more burdens to the industry but also about the provision of public goods where there are standardised baseline needs for retail investors. This paper unpacks the roles of both the public and private sectors in addressing retail investors’ financial welfare needs.
Anger and Atonement in Mughal India: An alternative account of Akbar's 1578 hunt
Authors: TALBOT CYNTHIA
Published: May 2021

Anger as an emotion is seldom attributed to Akbar (r. 1556–1605), the most admired of the Mughal emperors. Yet, on one notable day in 1578, he allegedly got so enraged that he almost lost his mind, according to Dalpat Vilas, an obscure chronicle composed in the vernacular. While the aftermath of Akbar's anger was reported in several Persian histories emanating from court circles, the royal rage itself was not. Why and how Dalpat Vilas ascribed anger, not only to the emperor but also to the local king, Raja Ray Singh of Bikaner, is the central issue addressed here. What little we know about the history of anger in precolonial India indicates it was an emotion that kings were advised to avoid, in both Sanskrit and Persian literature. But, from the more subaltern vantage point of Dalpat Vilas, written for a young Rajput warrior in a local dialect, rulers did act angrily and not always justly. This case illustrates the historiographic value of Indic-language texts sponsored by local subordinates of the Mughals, which can provide alternative perspectives on the empire. It also suggests the existence of multiple emotional communities in Mughal India, in which the significance of anger differed.
Transboundary air pollution and health: evidence from East Asia
Authors: Jung Jaehyun , Choi Anna , Yoon Semee
Published: May 2021

Outdoor air pollution continues to be a challenging health issue, even as countries experience economic growth. By exploiting a unique transboundary setting in East Asia, we study the impact of an increase in particulate matter (PM) concentrations on fetal deaths. Due to the westerlies in the mid-latitudes, residents in South Korea at times experience intermittent exposure to high levels of air pollution. Using such atmospheric setting, we estimate a reduced-form impact of high PM events on fetal deaths, which capturesin uteroexposure to pollution. Controlling for local weather and pollution trends, regression results indicate that high PM events in Beijing lead to a significant increase in daily fetal mortality rates in Korea, by approximately 7.4 per cent. This research finding provides lower-bound estimates of not only negative spillovers manifested in fetal health but also the impact of pollution on the health of the Chinese population and calls for a need to tackle transboundary air pollution via international cooperation.
Psychosocial Assessment in the Emergency Department
Authors: Xanthopoulou Penny , Ryan Mary , Lomas Matthew , McCabe Rose
Published: May 2021

Abstract. Background: In the United Kingdom, suicide risk is assessed in the emergency department (ED) in a face-to-face assessment with psychiatric liaison practitioners. This study aimed to explore patient experiences of psychosocial assessment after presenting with self-harm/suicidality. Method: A total of 28 patients were interviewed within 2 weeks of ED attendance for self-harm/suicidality. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: People described two different experiences. A therapeutic interaction was about the “person” and made people feel their life mattered and instilled hope for the future. This was characterized by: unscripted conversation; warmth promoting disclosure; psychological exploration of feelings; validation of distress; and a coproduced care plan. A formulaic assessment was about the “risk” and made people feel their life did not matter and hopeless about the future. This was characterized by: feeling judged and not worthy of help; a focus on risk and form filling; a trivial treatment plan; and loss of trust in services. Limitations: Our study comprised a single ED and used a non-diverse sample. Conclusion: Psychosocial assessment in the ED impacts on hope for people in crisis. A focus on therapeutic communication that is about the person, as well as the risk, improves patient experience, decreases distress, and instills hope that life is worth living.
Envisioning ARPA‐C: A Transdisciplinary Institution for Radical Climate Research and Intervention
Authors: Badia Lynn , Plaut Josette M. , von Fischer Joseph C. , Volckens John , Muhs Jeff
Published: May 2021

President Joe Biden's administration is poised to make a significant investment in climate research, including the creation of ARPA‐C (Advanced Research Projects Agency–Climate). This commentary serves to promote discourse on ARPA‐C and the future of government‐led climate research. Here, we propose a revolutionary leap to the ARPA model that incorporates a focus on culture and equity in a unique institutional structure anchored by transdisciplinarity. With ARPA‐C, we argue for a radical rethinking of climate interventions that reconciles and evolves the relationship between social, technical, and environmental systems, by finding integrated pathways to improvement via a high‐risk, creative, and transformative climate action agenda. Without research that can address the network of causal relationships across multiple scales, systems, and nations, programmatic models for climate research and implementation are unlikely to succeed.
Wintertime In Situ Cloud Microphysical Properties of Mixed‐Phase Clouds Over the Southern Ocean
Authors: Huang Yi , Siems Steven T. , Manton Michael J.
Published: May 2021

In situ observations made over 20 flights during three Austral winters (June to October 2013–2015) were analyzed to characterize the cloud microphysical properties and natural variability of mid‐latitude shallow convective clouds over the Southern Ocean (SO), with a focus on pristine conditions and the mixed‐phase temperature range (MPTR, 0°C to −31°C). Liquid, mixed‐phase, and ice cloud fractions were observed 39%, 44%, and 17% of the time, respectively, under various meteorological settings. Liquid phase clouds were typically characterized by low droplet number concentrations and the common presence of drizzle. Supercooled liquid water was prevalent in the MPTR, while freezing of supercooled raindrops likely formed the primary ice nucleation mechanism in these shallow clouds. Ice particles of various habits were present in the mature/maturing convective cloud cells, suggesting the operation of multiple particle growth regimes. Increased ice particle concentrations (exceeding 100 L−1), well in excess of the expected ice nuclei concentrations, were measured at temperature warmer than approximately −12°C, signaling the operation of secondary ice production mechanisms. However, these cloud segments were spatiotemporally inhomogeneous, suggesting the chaotic and turbulent nature of the secondary ice‐forming processes. Accurately representing these processes in global models, while necessary, is likely a challenge. Our analysis also found marked inconsistencies between several satellite‐based cloud phase products that have underpinned recent developments of model parameterization frameworks. Understanding and addressing these inconsistencies are critical toward improving the representation of SO clouds and their radiative properties in climate models.
Gene expression signatures predict response to therapy with growth hormone
Authors: Stevens Adam , Murray Philip , De Leonibus Chiara , Garner Terence , Koledova Ekaterina , Ambler Geoffrey , Kapelari Klaus , Binder Gerhard , Maghnie Mohamad , Zucchini Stefano , Bashnina Elena , Skorodok Julia , Yeste Diego , Belgorosky Alicia , Siguero Juan-Pedro Lopez , Coutant Regis , Vangsøy-Hansen Eirik , Hagenäs Lars , Dahlgren Jovanna , Deal Cheri , Chatelain Pierre , Clayton Peter
Published: May 2021

Recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) is used as a therapeutic agent for disorders of growth including growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and Turner syndrome (TS). Treatment is costly and current methods to model response are inexact. GHD (n = 71) and TS patients (n = 43) were recruited to study response to r-hGH over 5 years. Analysis was performed using 1219 genetic markers and baseline (pre-treatment) blood transcriptome. Random forest was used to determine predictive value of transcriptomic data associated with growth response. No genetic marker passed the stringency criteria for prediction. However, we identified an identical set of genes in both GHD and TS whose expression could be used to classify therapeutic response to r-hGH with a high accuracy (AUC > 0.9). Combining transcriptomic markers with clinical phenotype was shown to significantly reduce predictive error. This work could be translated into a single genomic test linked to a prediction algorithm to improve clinical management. Trial registration numbers: NCT00256126 and NCT00699855.
Predictive modeling for peri-implantitis by using machine learning techniques
Authors: Mameno Tomoaki , Wada Masahiro , Nozaki Kazunori , Takahashi Toshihito , Tsujioka Yoshitaka , Akema Suzuna , Hasegawa Daisuke , Ikebe Kazunori
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to create a model for predicting the onset of peri-implantitis by using machine learning methods and to clarify interactions between risk indicators. This study evaluated 254 implants, 127 with and 127 without peri-implantitis, from among 1408 implants with at least 4 years in function. Demographic data and parameters known to be risk factors for the development of peri-implantitis were analyzed with three models: logistic regression, support vector machines, and random forests (RF). As the results, RF had the highest performance in predicting the onset of peri-implantitis (AUC: 0.71, accuracy: 0.70, precision: 0.72, recall: 0.66, and f1-score: 0.69). The factor that had the most influence on prediction was implant functional time, followed by oral hygiene. In addition, PCR of more than 50% to 60%, smoking more than 3 cigarettes/day, KMW less than 2 mm, and the presence of less than two occlusal supports tended to be associated with an increased risk of peri-implantitis. Moreover, these risk indicators were not independent and had complex effects on each other. The results of this study suggest that peri-implantitis onset was predicted in 70% of cases, by RF which allows consideration of nonlinear relational data with complex interactions.
Interactions between the flavescence dorée phytoplasma and its insect vector indicate lectin-type adhesion mediated by the adhesin VmpA
Authors: Arricau-Bouvery Nathalie , Duret Sybille , Dubrana Marie-Pierre , Desqué Delphine , Eveillard Sandrine , Brocard Lysiane , Malembic-Maher Sylvie , Foissac Xavier
Published: May 2021

The flavescence dorée phytoplasma undergoes a propagative cycle in its insect vectors by first interacting with the insect cell surfaces, primarily in the midgut lumen and subsequently in the salivary glands. Adhesion of flavescence dorée phytoplasma to insect cells is mediated by the adhesin VmpA. We hypothesize that VmpA may have lectin-like activity, similar to several adhesins of bacteria that invade the insect gut. We first demonstrated that the luminal surface of the midgut and the basal surface of the salivary gland cells of the natural vectorScaphoideus titanusand those of the experimental vectorEuscelidius variegatuswere differentially glycosylated. Using ELISA, inhibition and competitive adhesion assays, and protein overlay assays in the Euva-6 insect cell line, we showed that the protein VmpA binds insect proteins in a lectin-like manner. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate thatN-acetylglucosamine and mannose present on the surfaces of the midgut and salivary glands serve as recognition sites for the phytoplasma adhesin VmpA.
Four distinct Northeast US heat wave circulation patterns and associated mechanisms, trends, and electric usage
Authors: Agel Laurie , Barlow Mathew , Skinner Christopher , Colby Frank , Cohen Judah
Published: May 2021

Northeastern US heat waves have usually been considered in terms of a single circulation pattern, the high-pressure circulation typical of most heat waves occurring in other parts of the world. However, k-means clustering analysis from 1980–2018 shows there are four distinct patterns of Northeast heat wave daily circulation, each of which has its own seasonality, heat-producing mechanisms (associated moisture, subsidence, and temperature advection), and impact on electricity demand. Monthly analysis shows statistically-significant positive trends occur in late summer for two of the patterns and early summer for a third pattern, while the fourth pattern shows a statistically significant negative trend in early summer. These results demonstrate that heat waves in a particular geographic area can be initiated and maintained by a variety of mechanisms, resulting in heat wave types with distinct impacts and potential links to climate change, and that pattern analysis is an effective tool to distinguish these differences.
Core–shell PdAu nanocluster catalysts to suppress sulfur poisoning
Authors: Gao Shan , Wang Linxia , Li Hui , Liu Zunfeng , Shi Guoliang , Peng Jianfei , Wang Bin , Wang Weichao , Cho Kyeongjae
Published: May 2021

Core–shell structured Pd13Au42(Pd@Au) nanoclusters display high sulfur poisoning resistance and high catalytic activity for CO oxidation.
Coordination-driven self-assembly of anthraquinone-based metal–organic cages for photocatalytic selective [2 + 2] cycloaddition
Authors: Jin Yao , Jiang Hong , Tang Xianhui , Zhang Wenqiang , Liu Yan , Cui Yong
Published: May 2021

Guided by the coordination-driven self-assembly, four metal–organic cages (MOCs) with D2 or D4h symmetry are synthesized and can be efficient catalysts for photocatalytic [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction.
Synthesis, structure and reactivity of iridium complexes containing a bis-cyclometalated tridentate C^N^C ligand
Authors: Cheung Wai-Man , Chong Man-Chun , Sung Herman H.-Y. , Cheng Shun-Cheung , Williams Ian D. , Ko Chi-Chiu , Leung Wa-Hung
Published: May 2021

In an effort to synthesize cyclometalated iridium complexes containing a tridentate C^N^C ligand, transmetallation of [Hg(HC^N^C)Cl] (H2C^N^C = 2,6-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)pyridine) with various organoiridium starting materials has been studied.
Synthesis and crystal structure of the simultaneous binding of Ni(ii) cation and chloride by the protonated 2,4,6 tris-(2-pyridyl)-1,3,5 triazine ligand: theoretical investigations of anion⋯π, π⋯π and hydrogen bonding interactions
Authors: Pal Pampi , Das Kinsuk , Hossain Anowar , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Mukhopadhyay Subrata
Published: May 2021

A new octahedral Ni(ii) complex of a protonated 2,4,6-tris(2-pyridyl)-1,3,5-triazine ligand has been synthesized and X-ray analysis exhibited cooperative anion–π and H-bonding interactions.
Arylbiamidines: synthesis and structural studies en route to anticancer applications
Authors: Grytsai Oleksandr , Gonçalves Leticia Christina Pires , Bardovskyi Rostyslav , Hamouda-Tekaya Nedra , Rocchi Stéphane , Ronco Cyril , Benhida Rachid
Published: May 2021

Four novel arylbiamidine series were studied showing particular tautomerism and H-bonding structure highlighting their promising druglike features toward anticancer applications.
Visible-light-promoted α-methoxymethylation and aminomethylation of ketones with methanol as the C1 source
Authors: Yang Jingya , Liu Cai , Zhou Hongyan , Fan Rundong , Ma Ben , Li Zheng
Published: May 2021

A photochemical method for the α-methoxymethylation and aminomethylation of ketones using methanol as the C1 source has been developed.
A Computational Model for Estimating the Speech Motor System's Sensitivity to Auditory Prediction Errors
Authors: Daliri Ayoub
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The speech motor system uses feedforward and feedback control mechanisms that are both reliant on prediction errors. Here, we developed a state-space model to estimate the error sensitivity of the control systems. We examined (a) whether the model accounts for the error sensitivity of the control systems and (b) whether the two systems have similar error sensitivity.

Method

Participants (
N
= 50) completed an adaptation paradigm, in which their first and second formants were perturbed such that a participant's /ε/ would sound like her /ӕ/. We measured adaptive responses to the perturbations at early (0–80 ms) and late (220–300 ms) time points relative to the onset of the perturbations. As data-driven correlates of the error sensitivity of the feedforward and feedback systems, we used the average early responses and difference responses (i.e., late minus early responses), respectively. We fitted the state-space model to participants' adaptive responses and used the model's parameters as model-based estimates of error sensitivity.

Results

We found that the late responses were larger than the early responses. Additionally, the model-based estimates of error sensitivity strongly correlated with the data-driven estimates. However, the data-driven and model-based estimates of error sensitivity of the feedforward system did not correlate with those of the feedback system.

Conclusions

Overall, our results suggested that the dynamics of adaptive responses as well as error sensitivity of the control systems can be accurately predicted by the model. Furthermore, our results suggested that the feedforward and feedback control systems function independently.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14669808
Nanomechanical spectroscopy of ultrathin silicon nitride suspended membranes
Authors: Jugade Sanket S. , Aggarwal Anuj , Naik Akshay K.
Published: May 2021

Mechanical properties of a nanomechanical resonator significantly impact the performance of a resonant Nano-electromechanical system (NEMS) device. We study the mechanical properties of suspended membranes fabricated out of low-pressure chemical vapor deposited silicon nitride thin films. We fabricated doubly-clamped membranes of silicon nitride with thickness less than 50 nm and length varying from 5 to 60 μm. The elastic modulus and stress in the suspended membranes were measured using Atomic Force Microscope (AFM)-based nanomechanical spectroscopy. The elastic moduli of the suspended membranes are significantly higher than those of corresponding on-substrate thin films. We observed a reduction in net stress after the fabrication of suspended membrane, which is explained by estimating the thermal stress and intrinsic stress. We also use a mathematical model to study the stress and thickness-dependent elastic modulus of the ultrathin membranes. Lastly, we study the capillary force-gradient between the SiNxsuspended membrane-Si substrate that could collapse the suspended membrane.
Caractérisation nano-mécanique et tribologique des revêtements TiO2 et TiN déposés sur acier inoxydable 316L pour applications biomédicales
Authors: Ben Aissa Chokri , Khlifi Kaouther
Published: May 2021

Dans ce travail, nous avons développé des couches nanométriques biocompatibles à base de titane (TiN et TiO2) sur acier inoxydable 316L, par CAE-PVD (Cathodic Arc Evaporation), qui est un procédé efficace pour la synthèse de revêtements de haute qualité. Nous avons axé notre étude sur une caractérisation mécanique et tribologique des revêtements par des tests d’indentation et des rayures. Les résultats obtenus montrent une morphologie dense et uniforme couplée à des propriétés mécaniques et interfaciales importantes. Les revêtements TiN et TiO2 ont montré une dureté comprise entre 5,9 GPa et 8,23 GPa. La mesure de l’adhérence par des tests de rayure a montré que les deux revêtements ont une qualité d’adhérence légèrement différente. Les couches développées en TiN et TiO2 ont montré des charges de cohésion critiques comprises entre 1,8 N et 3,3 N avec une charge d’adhérence critique de 13,1 N. Les propriétés tribologiques ont été étudiées, en utilisant un test de Scratch multi-passes à charge constante, ce qui a permis de déterminer le coefficient de frottement et le taux d’usure énergétique. Les coefficients de frottement des deux couches étudiées sont du même ordre de grandeur (0,1), mais on peut dire que la résistance au frottement varie d’une couche à l’autre. L’énergie spécifique d’usure était comprise entre 3,09 × 10−5 J/μm3 et 8,36 × 10−5 J/μm3, et elle n’a pas changé après immersion de la couche de TiN pendant 48 h dans une solution de NaCl à 3 %. Le film mince de TiN, connu pour sa biocompatibilité et ses performances biologiques, a montré des propriétés mécaniques et tribologiques qui lui permettent d’être utilisé dans les implants de hanche et de genou.
Hypnotherapie in der Herzchirurgie
Authors: Tigges-Limmer Katharina
Published: May 2021

Herzoperationen können mit Todesangst, Schmerzen, Distress, fehlender Intimsphäre und dem Gefühl der Hilflosigkeit und Abhängigkeit verbunden sein. Eine psychotherapeutische Mitversorgung in herzchirurgischen Kliniken ist deshalb indiziert. Hypnotherapeutische Interventionen können Angst und Stress reduzieren und bei der Schmerzbewältigung helfen.
Trends in hospitalization, mortality, and timing of colonoscopy in patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Devani Kalpit , Radadiya Dhruvil , Charilaou Paris , Aasen Tyler , Reddy Chakradhar M. , Young Mark , Brahmbhatt Bhaumik , Rockey Don C.
Published: May 2021

Background and study aims Current guidelines conditionally recommend performing early colonoscopy (EC) (< 24 hours) in patients admitted with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). It remains unclear whether this practice is implemented widely. Therefore, we used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to investigate trends for timing of colonoscopy in patients admitted with acute LGIB. We also assessed trend of hospitalization and mortality in patients with LGIB.

Patients and methods Adult patients with LGIB admitted from 2005 to 2014 were examined. ICD-9-CM codes were used to extract LGIB discharges. Trends were assessed using Cochrane-Armitage test. Factors associated with mortality, cost of hospitalization, and length of stay (LOS) were assessed by multivariable mixed-effects and exact-matched logistic, linear regression, and accelerated-failure time models, respectively.

Results A total of 814,647 patients with LGIB were included. The most common etiology of LGIB was diverticular bleeding (49 %) and 45 % of patients underwent EC. Over the study period, there was no change in the trend of colonoscopy timing. Although admission with LGIB increased over the study period, the mortality rate decreased for patients undergoing colonoscopy. Independent predictors of mortality were age, surgery (colostomy/colectomy) during admission, intensive care unit admission, acute kidney injury, and blood transfusion requirement. Timing of colonoscopy was not associated with mortality benefit. However, cost of hospitalization was $ 1,946 lower and LOS was 1.6 days shorter with EC.

Conclusion Trends in colonoscopy timing in management of LGIB have not changed over the years. EC is associated with lower LOS and cost of hospitalization but it does not appear to improve inpatient mortality.
Seroprevalence of Transfusion-Transmitted Infections among Voluntary and Replacement Blood Donors at the Peshawar Regional Blood Centre, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Saba Noore , Nasir Jamal Abdul , Waheed Usman , Aslam Sidra , Mohammad Iqbal , Wazeer Akhlaaq , Ahmed Saeed , Nisar Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Introduction Blood transfusion is linked to several risks, most notably the transmission of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs), including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), syphilis, and malaria. The risk posed by these blood-borne infectious agents is high in developing countries, including Pakistan. This fact stresses the need for regular surveillance of TTIs. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the seroprevalence of TTIs at a regional blood center.

Material and Methods This was a retrospective 4-year descriptive study undertaken at the Regional Blood Centre in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan, on the blood donor data from June 2016 to May 2020. A total of 41,817 donors donated blood during the study period and were screened for HBV, HCV, HIV, syphilis, and malaria. To ensure donor privacy, donors were identified via codes and no personal information was available. The data were extracted from the ZAAVIA blood transfusion information system database.

Results The study included a total of 41,817 donors—41,493 (99.22%) males and 324 (0.78%) females. Of them, 22,343 (53.43%) were voluntary donors while 19,474 (46.57%) were replacement donors. An overall TTI prevalence rate of 4.61% was found. The TTI prevalence rate in voluntary donors was 3.90% while 5.42% in replacement donors. The overall prevalence of HBV, HCV, HIV, syphilis, and malaria was 1.95, 1.38, 0.23, 0.91, and 0.14%, respectively.

Conclusion The current study documented a high prevalence (1,929 out of 41,817, 4.61%) of TTIs, especially in replacement donors (1,057 out of 19,474, 5.42%), and low participation of female donors. The recommendations include the promotion of voluntary blood donors, enrolment of female blood donors, and screening of donated blood through highly sensitive screening assay (i.e., nucleic acid testing).
Constructing collective identities and solidarity in premiers’ early speeches on COVID-19: a global perspective
Authors: Berrocal Martina , Kranert Michael , Attolino Paola , Santos Júlio Antonio Bonatti , Santamaria Sara Garcia , Henaku Nancy , Koffi Aimée Danielle Lezou , Marziani Camilla , Mažeikienė Viktorija , Pérez Dasniel Olivera , Rajandran Kumaran , Salamurović Aleksandra
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a unique global experience, arousing both exclusionary nationalistic and inclusionary responses of solidarity. This article aims to explore the discursive and linguistic means by which the COVID-19 pandemic, as a macro-event, has been translated into local micro-events. The analysis studies the global pandemic through the initial statements of 29 leading political actors across four continents. The aim is to examine discursive constructions of solidarity and nationalism through the social representation of inclusion/exclusion of in-, out-, and affiliated groups. The comparative analysis is based on the theoretical and methodological framework of the socio-cognitive approach to critical discourse analysis and is informed by argumentation theory and nationalism studies. The results of our analysis suggest that leaders have constructed the virus as the main outgroup through the metaphors of the pandemic-as-war and the pandemic-as-movement which have entered the national space. Faced with this threat, these speeches have discursively constructed the nation-as-a-team as the main in-group and prioritized (1) a vertical type of solidarity based on nationhood and according to governmental plans; (2) exclusionary solidarity against rule-breakers; (3) horizontal solidarity that is both intergenerational and among family members, and (4) transnational solidarity. It is not by chance that the world stands as a relevant affiliated group that needs to forcibly collaborate in order to face the main outgroup, the virus itself. A major consensus has been found in constructing the out-group. In contrast, the linguistic and discursive constructions of in-groups and their affiliates display a greater variation, depending upon the prevalent discursive practices and social context within different countries.
Dry-aged and wet-aged beef: effects of aging time and temperature on microbiological profile, physicochemical characteristics, volatile compound profile and weight loss of meat from Nellore cattle (Bos indicus)
Authors: da Silva Bernardo Ana Paula , Marinelli Saraiva Ferreira Felipe , Muniz da Silva Astrid Caroline , Souza Prestes Flávia , Francisco Vanessa Cristina , Tieko Nassu Renata , da Silva do Nascimento Maristela , Bertelli Pflanzer Sérgio
Published: May 2021

Context Dry-aged beef is a value-added product with a unique flavour. The effects of the dry aging process, in terms of chamber temperature and aging time, have not been described previously for Bos indicus meat. Aims This study evaluated the effects of aging conditions (method, temperature, time) on the microbiological, physicochemical, volatile compound profile and weight loss characteristics of dry-aged and wet-aged beef from Nellore cattle (Bos indicus). Methods Beef loins (n = 16) were cut into eight portions and assigned to treatments in a complete block design combining aging method (dry or wet), temperature (2°C or 7°C) and time (21 or 42 days). Key results Samples dry-aged at 7°C had higher (P < 0.05) weight loss than samples dry-aged at 2°C. Although storage temperature did not affect (P > 0.05) the yield of wet-aged samples, Enterobacteriaceae counts increased (P < 0.05) in the samples stored at 7°C compared with 2°C. Aging for 42 days resulted in greater (P < 0.05) process losses (drip + evaporation + trimming) for both aging methods than aging for 21 days. The pH, moisture content and Warner–Bratzler shear force values were not affected (P > 0.05) by aging method, temperature or time. Qualitative analysis indicated that volatile compounds were affected by aging method and time, but not by aging temperature. Conclusions The results indicate that higher temperature and longer aging periods cannot be not recommended for either dry or wet aging, owing to the increase in process losses of dry-aged samples, and growth of Enterobacteriaceae and psychrotrophic bacteria in wet-aged samples. Implications This study highlights the importance of controlling conditions for dry aging to produce a safe product and obtain higher yields. Processing plants or retailers that produce dry-aged or wet-aged meat could use these results to adjust their production systems.
Qualitative assessment of value in Australian pork across cultures
Authors: Bittner E. P. , Ashman H. , van Barneveld R. J. , McNamara A. , Thomson N. , Hearn A. H. , Dunshea F. R.
Published: May 2021

Context The Australian pork industry would benefit greatly from further development of export markets across Asia, but due to the small size of the Australian industry and cultural differences between Asia and the West, further insight into research is required for premium product development. Aims Qualitatively assess value in Australian pork across Australian and Chinese consumer groups to investigate perceived differences in cultural attitudes to pork. Methods Qualitative multivariate analysis (QMA). Key results Australian and Chinese opinions of Australian pork products, meat and offal, and farming systems differed significantly. Australian consumers desired expert opinion, traditional meat cuts with minimal packaging, and small-scale production with superior animal welfare. Chinese consumers wanted clean, healthy and versatile products, with consistent quality, without concerns around animal welfare. Conclusions The compatibility of the markets and consumer preferences show great promise for Australian pork holding value in the eyes of Chinese consumers, Implications Results offer insight for future product development for export and targeted domestic markets. Findings will also enable future quantitative research efforts to be more targeted and specific.