bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantile-distribution functions and their use for classification, with application to naïve Bayes classifiers
Authors: Redivo Edoardo , Viroli Cinzia , Farcomeni Alessio
Published: March 2023

We develop a flexible parametric framework for the estimation of quantile functions. This involves the specification of an analytical quantile-distribution function. It is shown to adapt well to a wide range of distributions under reasonable assumptions. We derive a least-square type estimator, leading to computationally efficient inference. By-products include a test for comparing two distributions, a variable selection method, and an innovative naïve Bayes classifier. Properties of the estimator, of the asymptotic test and of the classifier are investigated through theoretical results and simulation studies, and illustrated through a real data example.
The better toolbox: experimental methodology in economics and psychology
Authors: Di Cagno Daniela , Güth Werner , Sillari Giacomo
Published: March 2023

In experimental economics one can confront a “don’t!”, as in “do not deceive your participants!”, as well as a “do!”, as in “incentivize choice making!”. Neither exists in experimental psychology. Further controversies exist in data collection methods, e.g., play strategy (vector) method in game experiments, and how to guarantee external and internal validity by describing experimental scenarios by field-related vignettes or by abstract, often formal, rules as it is used in decision and game theory. We emphasize that differences between the experimental methodology of the two disciplines are minor rather than substantial and suggest that such differences should be resolved, as much as possible, through empirical research. Rather than focusing on familiar debates, we suggest to substitute the revealed-motive approach in experimental economics by designs whose data not only inform about choice, but also about the reasoning dynamics.
No skin off your back: the sampling and extraction of sebum for metabolomics
Authors: Géhin C. , Tokarska J. , Fowler S. J. , Barran P. E. , Trivedi D. K.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Sebum-based metabolomics (a subset of “sebomics”) is a developing field that involves the sampling, identification, and quantification of metabolites found in human sebum. Sebum is a lipid-rich oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands onto the skin surface for skin homeostasis, lubrication, thermoregulation, and environmental protection. Interest in sebomics has grown over the last decade due to its potential for rapid analysis following non-invasive sampling for a range of clinical and environmental applications.

Objectives

To provide an overview of various sebum sampling techniques with their associated challenges.

To evaluate applications of sebum for clinical research, drug monitoring, and human biomonitoring.

To provide a commentary of the opportunities of using sebum as a diagnostic biofluid in the future.

Methods

Bibliometric analyses of selected keywords regarding skin surface analysis using the Scopus search engine from 1960 to 2022 was performed on 12th January 2023. The published literature was compartmentalised based on what the work contributed to in the following areas: the understanding about sebum, its composition, the analytical technologies used, or the purpose of use of sebum. The findings were summarised in this review.

Results

Historically, about 15 methods of sampling have been used for sebum collection. The sample preparation approaches vary depending on the analytes of interest and are summarised. The use of sebum is not limited to just skin diseases or drug monitoring but also demonstrated for other systemic disease. Most of the work carried out for untargeted analysis of metabolites associated with sebum has been in the recent two decades.

Conclusion

Sebum has a huge potential beyond skin research and understanding how one’s physiological state affects or reflects on the skin metabolome via the sebaceous glands itself or by interactions with sebaceous secretion, will open doors for simpler biomonitoring. Sebum acts as a sink to environmental metabolites and has applications awaiting to be explored, such as biosecurity, cross-border migration, localised exposure to harmful substances, and high-throughput population screening. These applications will be possible with rapid advances in volatile headspace and lipidomics method development as well as the ability of the metabolomics community to annotate unknown species better. A key issue with skin surface analysis that remains unsolved is attributing the source of the metabolites found on the skin surface before meaningful biological interpretation.
Reframing Optimal Control Problems for Infectious Disease Management in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Igoe Morganne , Casagrandi Renato , Gatto Marino , Hoover Christopher M. , Mari Lorenzo , Ngonghala Calistus N. , Remais Justin V. , Sanchirico James N. , Sokolow Susanne H. , Lenhart Suzanne , de Leo Giulio
Published: March 2023

Optimal control theory can be a useful tool to identify the best strategies for the management of infectious diseases. In most of the applications to disease control with ordinary differential equations, the objective functional to be optimized is formulated in monetary terms as the sum of intervention costs and the cost associated with the burden of disease. We present alternate formulations that express epidemiological outcomes via health metrics and reframe the problem to include features such as budget constraints and epidemiological targets. These alternate formulations are illustrated with a compartmental cholera model. The alternate formulations permit us to better explore the sensitivity of the optimal control solutions to changes in available budget or the desired epidemiological target. We also discuss some limitations of comprehensive cost assessment in epidemiology.
Spatial gradient consistency for unsupervised learning of hyperspectral demosaicking: application to surgical imaging
Authors: Li Peichao , Asad Muhammad , Horgan Conor , MacCormac Oscar , Shapey Jonathan , Vercauteren Tom
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Hyperspectral imaging has the potential to improve intraoperative decision making if tissue characterisation is performed in real-time and with high-resolution. Hyperspectral snapshot mosaic sensors offer a promising approach due to their fast acquisition speed and compact size. However, a demosaicking algorithm is required to fully recover the spatial and spectral information of the snapshot images. Most state-of-the-art demosaicking algorithms require ground-truth training data with paired snapshot and high-resolution hyperspectral images, but such imagery pairs with the exact same scene are physically impossible to acquire in intraoperative settings. In this work, we present a fully unsupervised hyperspectral image demosaicking algorithm which only requires exemplar snapshot images for training purposes.

Methods

We regard hyperspectral demosaicking as an ill-posed linear inverse problem which we solve using a deep neural network. We take advantage of the spectral correlation occurring in natural scenes to design a novel inter spectral band regularisation term based on spatial gradient consistency. By combining our proposed term with standard regularisation techniques and exploiting a standard data fidelity term, we obtain an unsupervised loss function for training deep neural networks, which allows us to achieve real-time hyperspectral image demosaicking.

Results

Quantitative results on hyperspetral image datasets show that our unsupervised demosaicking approach can achieve similar performance to its supervised counter-part, and significantly outperform linear demosaicking. A qualitative user study on real snapshot hyperspectral surgical images confirms the results from the quantitative analysis.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the proposed unsupervised algorithm can achieve promising hyperspectral demosaicking in real-time thus advancing the suitability of the modality for intraoperative use.
Provider Implicit Bias in Prescribing HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to People Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Dubov Alex , Krakower Douglas S. , Rockwood Nicholas , Montgomery Susanne , Shoptaw Steven
Published: March 2023

Background

Multiple HIV outbreaks among people who inject drugs (PWIDs) have occurred in the USA since 2015, highlighting the need for additional HIV prevention tools. Despite high levels of need, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is drastically underutilized among PWIDs. Implicit bias toward PWID held by clinicians may impede PrEP scale-up among these underserved patients. This study examined how primary care providers’ (PCPs) clinical decisions related to PrEP can be impacted by biases when the patient has a history of substance use.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of PCPs (n = 208). The survey included the implicit association test (IAT) to assess unconscious attitudes toward PWIDs, direct questions regarding clinicians’ explicit PWID attitudes, and an embedded experiment in which we systematically varied the risk behavior of a hypothetical patient and asked PCPs to make clinical judgments.

Results

A minority (32%) of PCPs reported explicit PWID bias. The IAT indicated strong implicit PWID bias (meant IAT score = 0.59, p < .0001) among 88% of the sample. Only 9% of PCPs had no implicit or explicit PWID bias. PWID patients were judged as less likely to adhere to a PrEP regimen, less responsible, and less HIV safety conscious than heterosexual or gay male patients. Anticipated lack of adherence mediated PCPs’ intent to prescribe PrEP to PWID.

Conclusions

PCPs’ bias may contribute to PrEP being under-prescribed to PWID. Implicit and explicit PWID biases were common in our sample. This study illustrates the need to develop and test tailored interventions to decrease biases against PWID in primary care settings.
Bariatric Surgery and Psychological Health: A Randomised Clinical Trial in Patients with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Murton Lynn M. , Plank Lindsay D. , Cutfield Rick , Kim David , Booth Michael W. C. , Murphy Rinki , Serlachius Anna
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the impact of either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with silastic ring (SR-RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) types of bariatric surgery on psychological health and explored the role of pre-existing depressive symptoms on weight loss.

Materials and Methods

A total of 114 participants with obesity and type 2 diabetes were randomized to receive SR-RYGB or SG at a single centre. Data from the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), RAND 36-item Health Survey and body weight were collected before surgery and annually for 5 years.

Results

Sixteen patients were lost to follow-up at 5 years. Of the 98 patients who completed 5-year psychological follow-up assessments, 13 had mild to severe depressive symptoms (SR-RYGB n = 6, SG n = 7). SR-RYGB and SG resulted in similar psychological health improvement but percent weight loss at 5 years was greater for SR-RYGB by 10.6% (95% CI: 7.2 to 14.0, P < 0.0001). Scores for depressive symptoms and most RAND-36 domains improved significantly from baseline to 5 years in both groups. Patients with pre-existing depressive symptoms had similar percent weight loss at 5 years compared to patients without depressive symptoms, irrespective of procedural type.

Conclusion

Patients receiving either SR-RYGB or SG had comparable psychosocial functioning, which was maintained to 5 years post-surgery. Pre-existing depressive symptoms did not affect weight loss achieved at 5 years. These findings confirm previous longitudinal studies demonstrating that bariatric surgery is generally associated with improved psychosocial functioning.

Graphical Abstract
Interpreting the ‘Two Brothers’ at Manchester Museum: Science, Knowledge and Display
Authors: Price Campbell
Published: March 2023

The intact tomb group of the so-called ‘Two Brothers’, dating to around 1850bce, was found at Deir Rifeh in Middle Egypt. Since its transfer to Manchester Museum in 1907, it has been central to the Museum’s extensive Egyptian collection—and of its celebratory history of Manchester Egyptology. Here, established interpretations of the ‘Brothers’s’ remains—often framed as a pioneering case of innovative scientific investigation in Egyptology—are critically assessed to highlight the contingency of such claims.
A novel method for assessing cardiac function in patients with coronary heart disease based on wrist pulse analysis
Authors: Wu Wen-jie , Chen Rui , Guo Rui , Yan Jian-jun , Zhang Chun-ke , Wang Yi-qin , Yan Hai-xia , Zhang Ye-qing
Published: March 2023

Background

The timely assessment of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) marking chronic heart failure risk in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) helps to reduce patients’ mortality.

Objective

To evaluate the potential of wrist pulse signals for use in the cardiac monitoring of patients with CHD.

Methods

A total of 419 patients with CHD were assigned to Group 1 (BNP < 95 pg/mL, n = 249), 2 (95 < BNP < 221 pg/mL, n = 85), and 3 (BNP > 221 pg/mL, n = 85) according to BNP levels. Wrist pulse signals were measured noninvasively. Both the time-domain method and multiscale entropy (MSE) method were used to extract pulse features. Decision tree (DT) and random forest (RF) algorithms were employed to construct models for classifying three groups, and the models’ performance metrics were compared.

Results

The pulse features of the three groups differed significantly, suggesting different pathological states of the cardiovascular system in patients with CHD. Moreover, the RF models outperformed the DT models in performance metrics. Furthermore, the optimal RF model was that based on a dataset comprising both time-domain and MSE features, achieving accuracy, average precision, average recall, and average F1-score of 90.900%, 91.048%, 90.900%, and 90.897%, respectively.

Conclusions

The wrist pulse detection technology employed in this study is useful for assessing the cardiac function of patients with CHD.
A Faber-Krahn inequality for mixed local and nonlocal operators
Authors: Biagi Stefano , Dipierro Serena , Valdinoci Enrico , Vecchi Eugenio
Published: March 2023

We consider the first Dirichlet eigenvalue problem for a mixed local/nonlocal elliptic operator and we establish a quantitative Faber-Krahn inequality. More precisely, we show that balls minimize the first eigenvalue among sets of given volume and we provide a stability result for sets that almost attain the minimum.
Dimension-free Lp-estimates for vectors of Riesz transforms in the rational Dunkl setting
Authors: Hejna Agnieszka
Published: March 2023

In this article, we prove a dimension-free upper bound for the Lp-norms of the vector of Riesz transforms in the rational Dunkl setting. Our main technique is the Bellman function method adapted to the Dunkl setting.
Hospital-based proton therapy implementation during the COVID pandemic: early clinical and research experience in a European academic institution
Authors: Calvo Felipe A. , Palma Jacobo , Serrano Javier , Cambeiro Mauricio , Meiriño Rosa , Martin Santiago , Azcona Diego , Pedrero Diego , Aguilar Borja , Delgado Jose Miguel , Moran Verónica , Viñals Alberto , Cabello Pablo , Panizo Elena , Lassaletta Alvaro , Gibert Carlota , Sancho Lidia , de Miguel Jose Maria Fernandez , de Sierra Beatriz Alvarez , Alcázar Andres , Suarez Victor , Alonso Alberto , Gallardo Guillermo , Aristu Javier
Published: March 2023

Introduction

A rapid deploy of unexpected early impact of the COVID pandemic in Spain was described in 2020. Oncology practice was revised to facilitate decision-making regarding multimodal therapy for prevalent cancer types amenable to multidisciplinary treatment in which the radiotherapy component searched more efficient options in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic, minimizing the risks to patients whilst aiming to guarantee cancer outcomes.

Methods

A novel Proton Beam Therapy (PBT), Unit activity was analyzed in the period of March 2020 to March 2021. Institutional urgent, strict and mandatory clinical care standards for early diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 infection were stablished in the hospital following national health-authorities’ recommendations. The temporary trends of patients care and research projects proposals were registered.

Results

3 out of 14 members of the professional staff involved in the PBR intra-hospital process had a positive test for COVID infection. Also, 4 out of 100 patients had positive tests before initiating PBT, and 7 out of 100 developed positive tests along the weekly mandatory special checkup performed during PBT to all patients. An update of clinical performance at the PBT Unit at CUN Madrid in the initial 500 patients treated with PBT in the period from March 2020 to November 2022 registers a distribution of 131 (26%) pediatric patients, 63 (12%) head and neck cancer and central nervous system neoplasms and 123 (24%) re-irradiation indications. In November 2022, the activity reached a plateau in terms of patients under treatment and the impact of COVID pandemic became sporadic and controlled by minor medical actions. At present, the clinical data are consistent with an academic practice prospectively (NCT05151952). Research projects and scientific production was adapted to the pandemic evolution and its influence upon professional time availability. Seven research projects based in public funding were activated in this period and preliminary data on molecular imaging guided proton therapy in brain tumors and post-irradiation patterns of blood biomarkers are reported.

Conclusions

Hospital-based PBT in European academic institutions was impacted by COVID-19 pandemic, although clinical and research activities were developed and sustained. In the post-pandemic era, the benefits of online learning will shape the future of proton therapy education.
Experiences of moving an older parent into a care home or nursing home in the UK: a qualitative study
Authors: Robinson Oliver , Fisher Amy
Published: March 2023

The study explored the personal experiences of individuals making the decision to move an older parent into a residential care facility via retrospective narrative. It aimed to gain an understanding of how individuals experienced this transition, the emotions they felt at specific moments throughout the transition, and the perceived effect it had on their psychological wellbeing. 13 semi-structured video interviews were conducted online with individuals who had been active in the decision of moving an older parent into a care home or nursing home. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, along with relational analysis to explore relations between themes. Findings informed 8 different themes, which were subsumed under three meta-themes of The Decision Process, Conflicting Emotions and Reflective Evaluation. It was found that the decision was recalled as a complex and often stressful negotiation between multiple stakeholders, that emotions ranged from grief to guilt and relief, and that reflections emphasised the positive that had come out of the transition. The results from this study provide valuable insights into the uniqueness of this transition from the perspective of relatives and the range of emotions experienced at different stages of the transition.
Indian consensus statements on irritable bowel syndrome in adults: A guideline by the Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association and jointly supported by the Indian Society of Gastroenterology
Authors: Ghoshal Uday C. , Sachdeva Sanjeev , Pratap Nitesh , Karyampudi Arun , Mustafa Uzma , Abraham Philip , Bhatt Chetan B. , Chakravartty Karmabir , Chaudhuri Sujit , Goyal Omesh , Makharia Govind K. , Panigrahi Manas Kumar , Parida Prasanta Kumar , Patwari Sudhanshu , Sainani Rajesh , Sadasivan Shine , Srinivas M. , Upadhyay Rajesh , Venkataraman Jayanthi
Published: March 2023

The Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association (INMA), earlier named the Indian Motility and Functional Diseases Association developed this evidence-based practice guidelines for the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A modified Delphi process was used to develop this consensus containing 28 statements, which were concerning diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, etiopathogenesis and comorbidities, investigations, lifestyle modifications and treatments. Owing to the Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, lockdowns and mobility restrictions, web-based meetings and electronic voting were the major tools used to develop this consensus. A statement was regarded as accepted when the sum of “completely accepted” and “accepted with minor reservation” voted responses were 80% or higher. Finally, the consensus was achieved on all 28 statements. The consensus team members are of the view that this work may find use in teaching, patient care, and research on IBS in India and other nations.
Urban foraging in Brazilian public greenspaces
Authors: Guenat Solène , Bailey-Athias Jonas P. , Fischer Leonie K.
Published: March 2023

Urban foraging, i.e., the gathering of wild edible plants, plays a key role in nature connection within cities. Its integration in planning could contribute to the conservation of urban biodiversity. However, we have little understanding of the interactions between the motivations for and barriers to foraging, and the role of legislation, especially in biodiversity hotspots. Through an online questionnaire and policy review, we explored the practice of urban foraging in Recife, Brazil, across social, spatial and regulatory dimensions. We found that most non-foragers would forage if pollution risks were addressed and knowledge was improved. Foragers collected up to 31 species, none of which are threatened. By integrating the social, spatial and regulatory dimensions of the practice, we highlighted the importance of the local context for targeting foraging incentives. In all, regulation had little impact on where the practice is carried out, and foraging seemed to have little negative impact on biodiversity, as no threatened species were collected and foragers were conscious of their impact. This knowledge can contribute to better integrate the practice of foraging within legislation and develop forager-led greenspace planning and management. In biodiversity hotspots threatened by urban expansion, foraging can contribute to slowing down the biodiversity crisis and improve urban residents’ contact with biodiversity.
In-line warming reduces in-line pressure of subcutaneous infusion of concentrated immunoglobulins
Authors: Leidenmühler Peter , Höfinghoff Joris , Haider Norbert , Brachtl Gerald , Weiller Markus , Bilic Ivan , Gangadharan Bagirath
Published: March 2023

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is a life-saving treatment in patients with immunodeficiency and effective in the management of autoimmune disorders. Immunoglobulins are administered intravenously or subcutaneously, with the latter route reducing systemic reactions and providing an option for self-infusion, increasing patient convenience, while decreasing patient burden, healthcare utilization, and costs. A major limitation with subcutaneous administrations is the frequency of infusion due to limited volumes administrable into subcutaneous space, necessitating increased drug concentration, absorption, and dispersion. Increasing the concentration of immunoglobulins from 10 to 20% halves the required volume, but leads to higher dynamic viscosity, limiting infusion rate. Recombinant human hyaluronidase increases dispersion and absorption of immunoglobulins allowing administration of ≤ 600 mL per site, but does not change viscosity. Since the viscosity of fluids depends on temperature, we tested the feasibility of in-line warming of immunoglobulin formulations to physiological temperatures. In vitro analysis showed no negative impact of in-line warming to 38 °C on product quality. Subcutaneous infusion studies in pigs confirmed the feasibility of infusion rates of up to 7.5 mL/min with in-line warmed TAK-881, an immunoglobulin 20% facilitated with recombinant human hyaluronidase. In-line pressures were reduced compared with conventional immunoglobulin 20%, and local tolerance was not altered. Reduction of in-line pressures was more pronounced with thinner needle sets, indicating a potential benefit for patients. In summary, an in in-line warming device can circumvent the limitation of high viscosity, while product quality and local tolerance are maintained. The results of the presented studies warrant further testing in a phase 1 clinical study.

Graphical Abstract
An experimental study on the drilling of CFRP sandwich structures with filled and unfilled aramid honeycomb cores
Authors: Geier Norbert
Published: March 2023

Lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) sandwich structures with honeycomb cores have excellent specific bending stiffness and good dimensional stability; therefore, their future applications will extend extensively, despite their difficult-to-manufacture nature. Although the drilling of single CFRP structures has been widely investigated, the published experience of drilling honeycomb cored CFRP sandwich panels is strongly limited. Therefore, the main objective of the present paper is to experimentally analyse the machinability of CFRP sandwich panels with filled and unfilled aramid Cormaster honeycomb cores through the analysis of thrust force, drilling torque and drilling-induced burrs. A twist and a brad and spur drill were used in two sandwich structures at three feed levels for the drilling experiments. The thrust force and drilling torque were measured by a KISTLER dynamometer, and the burrs were processed through digital image processing of optically captured images. The experimental results show that the application of fillers in the honeycomb only slightly decreases the nominal specific stiffness of the CFRP/honeycomb sandwich structures and slightly increases the thrust force; however, a significant improvement is achievable by their application in the drilling-induced burr formation of the honeycomb core.
Chemically-induced active micro-nano bubbles assisting chemical mechanical polishing: Modeling and experiments
Authors: Xu Lei , Park Kihong , Lei Hong , Liu Pengzhan , Kim Eungchul , Cho Yeongkwang , Kim Taesung , Chen Chuandong
Published: March 2023

The material loss caused by bubble collapse during the micro-nano bubbles auxiliary chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process cannot be ignored. In this study, the material removal mechanism of cavitation in the polishing process was investigated in detail. Based on the mixed lubrication or thin film lubrication, bubble-wafer plastic deformation, spherical indentation theory, Johnson-Cook (J-C) constitutive model, and the assumption of periodic distribution of pad asperities, a new model suitable for micro-nano bubble auxiliary material removal in CMP was developed. The model integrates many parameters, including the reactant concentration, wafer hardness, polishing pad roughness, strain hardening, strain rate, micro-jet radius, and bubble radius. The model reflects the influence of active bubbles on material removal. A new and simple chemical reaction method was used to form a controllable number of micro-nano bubbles during the polishing process to assist in polishing silicon oxide wafers. The experimental results show that micro-nano bubbles can greatly increase the material removal rate (MRR) by about 400% and result in a lower surface roughness of 0.17 nm. The experimental results are consistent with the established model. In the process of verifying the model, a better understanding of the material removal mechanism involved in micro-nano bubbles in CMP was obtained.
Synergistic tribological effect between polyisobutylene succinimide-modified molybdenum oxide nanoparticle and zinc dialkyldithiophosphate for reducing friction and wear of diamond-like carbon coating under boundary lubrication
Authors: Chen Shuoshuo , Song Ningning , Zhang Shengmao , Zhang Yujuan , Yu Laigui , Zhang Pingyu
Published: March 2023

Organic molybdenum lubricant additive like molybdenum dialkyl dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) can cause wear acceleration of diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating coupled with steel under boundary lubrication, which hinders its industrial application. Therefore, polyisobutylene succinimide (PIBS), an organo molybdenum amide, was adopted to modify molybdenum oxide affording molybdenum polyisobutylene succinimide-molybdenum oxide nanoparticles (MPIBS-MONPs) with potential to prevent the wear acceleration of DLC coating. The thermal stability of MPIBS-MONPs was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis. Their tribological properties as the additives in di-isooctyl sebacate (DIOS) were evaluated with MoDTC as a control; and their tribomechanism was investigated in relation to their tribochemical reactions and synergistic tribological effect with zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) as well as worn surface characterizations. Findings indicate that MPIBS-MONPs/ZDDP added in DIOS can significantly reduce the friction and wear of DLC coating, being much superior to MoDTC. This is because MPIBS-MONPs and ZDDP jointly take part in tribochemical reactions to form a composite tribofilm that can increase the wear resistance of DLC coating. Namely, the molybdenum amide on MPIBS-MONPs surface can react with ZDDP to form MoS2 film with excellent friction-reducing ability; and MPIBS-MONPs can release molybdenum oxide nanoparticle to form deposited lubrication layer on worn surfaces. The as-formed composite tribofilm consisting of molybdenum oxide nanocrystal, amorphous polyphosphate, and molybdenum disulfide as well as a small amount of Mo2C accounts for the increase in the wear resistance of DLC coating under boundary lubrication.
A Wenner array routine for optimum electrode spacing selection for resistivity measurements over thin subsurface media
Authors: Eluwole Akinola Bolaji , Olorunfemi Martins Olusola , Adebiyi Leke Sunday , Olasupo Temitope Emmanuel , Salawu Naheem Banji
Published: March 2023

This study was carried out with a view to establishing a routine for the selection of the optimum electrode spacing for the accurate measurement of resistivity within unusually thin (5–100 cm) subsurface layer in agro geophysics. The Hummel’s image theory for 2-Layer Wenner Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) formed the theoretical basis for the study. For the purpose of simulation, a computer program was developed using the theory. The simulation process involved varied upper and lower layer resistivities in conjunction with a spectrum of electrode spacings (a) and varied upper layer thicknesses (h). The relationship between electrode spacing and upper layer thickness was determined using the asymptotic resistivity characteristics of model curves and layer sensitivity models obtained from simulation. The deduced relationships were validated using the same approach on field data. It was observed from the model curves that with respect to electrode spacing and thickness, asymptotic limits remained the same irrespective of the nature of the upper layer resistivity (resistive or conductive). On the other hand, the nature of the resistivity of the lower layer was a factor in the attainment of its asymptotic resistivity. The observations from field data were congruous with those from simulation. Very strong (R = 0.99) direct linear relationships existed between electrode spacing and upper layer thickness with respect to the nature of upper layer resistivity. The study identified that the electrode spacing that will keep resistivity measurements within the upper layer with little or no interference from the underlying layer is less than half of its thickness. Also, electrode spacing not less than six times the upper layer thickness is required to accurately measure the resistivity of the lower layer when the upper layer is resistive. However, for a conductive upper layer, an electrode spacing of about twelve times the thickness of the upper layer is required to measure the true resistivity of the lower layer.
Underwater acoustic performance of SiC foam ceramic materials
Authors: Şahiner Barış , Özbek Sunullah , Baykara Tarık , Demirural Alparslan
Published: March 2023

One of the major tasks of the underwater warfare is to detect underwater objects such as vehicles, vessels, weapons and equipment. The conduct of underwater warfare mostly depends upon the advancement of detection and identification sensors and materials. The wide variation in types and characteristics of materials may affect the underwater detection capabilities despite recently developed sonar systems. The materials with high porosity are known to provide lower acoustical signature than conventional metallic plates in common. The aim of this study is to examine the acoustical signature and the efficiency of open celled SiC foam ceramics as covering and/or casing material for naval mines. Sonar frequencies widely used in mine countermeasure operations for detection purposes, 80 kHz, 85 kHz, 90khZ, 95 kHz and 100 kHz were applied to the acoustic tests. The experimental results obtained from the study shows that the SiC foam ceramic plate leads a 19,2% reduction in reflection, 90,5% and 96% lower values are obtained in transmission and 78,4% and 68,6% lower values are obtained at 60° and 30° in scattering compared to the reference steel plate.

Article Highlights

This study investigates underwater acoustic performance of open celled SiC foam ceramics the range of 80–100 kHz in the acoustic test pool environment for the very first time.

Highly tortuose and porous structure of open celled SiC foam ceramic leads a considerable decrease in scattering, reflection and transmission properties.

The study reveals that SiC foams ceramics are potential candidates in reducing acoustical signature as covering and/or casing material for future naval mine applications.
Effect of the SiO2/Al2O3 Molar Ratio on the Microstructure and Properties of Clay-based Geopolymers: A Comparative Study of Kaolinite-based and Halloysite-based Geopolymers
Authors: Zhang Baifa , Yu Ting , Guo Haozhe , Chen Jiarong , Liu Yi , Yuan Peng
Published: March 2023

As 1:1 dioctahedral clay minerals, kaolinite and halloysite have similar chemical compositions. However, halloysite often possesses a nanotubular structure and special surface reactivity compared to platy kaolinite. The objective of this current work was to determine the effect of the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio on the microstructure and properties of geopolymers derived from two kinds of kaolin: platy kaolinite and nanotubular halloysite. The chemical structures and compositions of the geopolymers obtained were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), whereas the microstructural analysis was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, and N2 physisorption analysis. The results indicated that calcined halloysite showed greater geopolymerization reactivity than calcined kaolinite. In addition, the mechanical properties of the clay-based geopolymers depended not only on the SiO2/Al2O3 ratio but also on the morphology of the clay. Crystalline zeolite A and geopolymer were produced after alkali-activation of kaolin with a SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 2.5; these products possessed porous and heterogeneous microstructures having poor compressive strength. As SiO2/Al2O3 ratios increased to >2.5, geopolymers with compact microstructure and high compressive strength were produced after alkali-activation of kaolin. Notably, at a given condition, halloysite-based geopolymers exhibited greater early compressive strength, more compactness, and more homogeneous microstructure than kaolinite-based geopolymers. This can be attributed to the nanotubular microstructure of halloysite, which can release more Si and Al during alkali activation than platy kaolinite. These results indicated that the various morphologies and microstructures among clays have significant impact on the microstructure and compressive strength of geopolymers.
The Application of Intelligent Interactive Learning Approach in Nursing Interns
Authors: Wu Yali , Wang Li , Zheng Beibei , Mao Lina , Li Ning
Published: March 2023

With the rapid development of information technology, students' smartphones have been basically popular and campus wireless networks have achieved full coverage, students can use their smartphones to surf the internet anytime and anywhere, and online learning and online learning have become a new trend. To explore the best teaching methods for nursing majors in medical colleges and universities. Sixty nursing interns rotating in our hospital were randomly divided into an experimental group (interactive teaching method) and a control group (traditional teaching method). The theoretical examination scores, operational examination scores and internship satisfaction of the interns in both groups were evaluated at the time of discharge. There were no statistical differences between the two groups of interns in terms of basic information such as gender, education, and mean scores of theoretical scores in school before internship. At the end of the internship, the theoretical and operational examination scores of the students in the experimental group increased by 5.79% and 5.66%, respectively, compared with the control group, and the average satisfaction also increased by 8.56%, which was a very significant improvement with statistically significant differences. The interactive guided teaching method based on the smartphone teaching platform effectively solved the problem of lack of communication between teachers and students, combined students' learning contents inside and outside the classroom with each other, and improved the overall learning effect.
Domesday Descendants
Authors: Keats-Rohan K. S. B.
Published: March 2023

The second of a two-volume prosopography of persons occurring in the sources of post-Conquest England.
The Philanthropic Community and International Law
Authors: Emtseva Julia
Published: March 2023

In my contribution today, I will focus on the role of the philanthropic community in promoting international law. For at least a century, philanthropists, mainly from the Global North, have been engaged in the discussions of the development of international law and its principles and sometimes, they even shaped these discussions. Yet, the contributions by the philanthropic community very often stay in the shadows, especially among international lawyers. Private foundations have been increasingly influential and very often if not for their support, we might not have seen the flourishing of some international institutions or international legal concepts. Here are a few examples.
Remarks by Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji
Authors: Eboe-Osuji Judge Chile
Published: March 2023

Thank you, Michael. When Mark Agrast and I settled on the title of this lecture on February 4, 2022, the idea was to speak generally about the accountability of sovereign power for international crimes. That was to discuss no particular head of state, except perhaps historical figures whose behaviors helped to develop the norm of individual criminal responsibility for even heads of state.
Remarks by John R. Crook
Authors: Crook John R.
Published: March 2023

Our panel is looking at the complex interactions between individuals and the processes for creating and applying international law. How do individual actions lead to state-state disputes? How do the rules and procedures for resolving these disputes impact affected people? As the panel notes says, the idea is to address a vital question: “what about me?”
Remarks by Ignacio Socias
Authors: Socias Ignacio
Published: March 2023

The American Society of International Law has included for this year's Annual Meeting a major but often overlooked issue about Personalizing International Law—the role of families. To understand how individuals experience international law in their daily lives, we must examine the role of families in shaping, implementing, and experiencing international law.
Privatizing International Governance
Authors: Durkee Melissa J.
Published: March 2023

The theme of this panel is “Privatizing International Governance.” As the opening vignettes should make clear, public-private partnerships of all kinds are increasingly common in the international system. Since United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan's launch of the Global Compact in 2000, the United Nations has increasingly opened up to business entities. Now, the Sustainable Development Goals, the Global Compact, and the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights all encourage engaging with business entities as partners in developing and executing global governance agendas. These partnerships are seen by some as indispensable to sustainable development, international business regulation, climate change mitigation, and other global governance agendas. Business entities can offer expertise and funding, and their participation can soften resistance and increase buy-in for international regulatory agendas.
Opening Remarks by Saskia Bruines, Deputy Mayor of The Hague
Authors: Bruines Saskia
Published: March 2023

Ladies and gentleman, it is an honor to have the floor at the final session of the annual meeting of the American Society of International law. It is great to see that this year's conference has seen a return of in-person attendance. I really wish I could have been there with you all in person!
Opening Remarks by Janne E. Nijman
Authors: Nijman Janne E.
Published: March 2023

Thank you, Catherine, for your kind introduction. And a big thank you also to Mark and Wes for the wonderful collaboration over the last seven years. We will miss you, Mark!
The Missing Global Right to Health
Authors: Alvarez José E.
Published: March 2023

The World Health Organization's (WHO) Constitution affirms, in its preamble, a fundamental and non-discriminatory right to health and health care. In doing so, it echoes a number of widely ratified treaties and other international legal instruments with a strong claim to having the status of customary international law, including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the ILO Convention on Indigenous and Tribal peoples in Independent Countries, and the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. Most recently, the Institut de Droit affirmed that same fundamental right in Article 4 of its September 2021 Resolution on Epidemics, Pandemics, and International Law.
Remarks by India Thusi
Authors: Thusi India
Published: March 2023

Thank you for the introduction, Michele, and, Karen, I really appreciated your remarks.
The role of channelized basal melt in ice-shelf stability: recent progress and future priorities
Authors: Alley Karen E. , Scambos Ted A. , Alley Richard B.
Published: March 2023

Basal channels, which form where buoyant plumes of ocean water and meltwater carve troughs upwards into ice-shelf bases, are widespread on Antarctic ice shelves. The formation of these features modulates ice-shelf basal melt by influencing the flow of buoyant plumes, and influences structural stability through concentration of strain and interactions with fractures. Because of these effects, and because basal channels can change rapidly, on timescales similar to those of ice-shelf evolution, constraining the impacts of basal channels on ice shelves is necessary for predicting future ice-shelf destabilization and retreat. We suggest that future research priorities should include constraining patterns and rates of basal channel change, determining mechanisms and detailed patterns of basal melt, and quantifying the influence that channel-related fractures have on ice-shelf stability.
On the relative minimal model program for fourfolds in positive and mixed characteristic
Authors: Hacon Christopher , Witaszek Jakub
Published: March 2023

We show the validity of two special cases of the four-dimensional minimal model program (MMP) in characteristic$p>5$: for contractions to${\mathbb {Q}}$-factorial fourfolds and in families over curves (‘semistable MMP’). We also provide their mixed characteristic analogues. As a corollary, we show that liftability of positive characteristic threefolds is stable under the MMP and that liftability of three-dimensional Calabi–Yau varieties is a birational invariant. Our results are partially contingent upon the existence of log resolutions.
Nudging to select single-lumen over multiple-lumen peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in a large safety net system
Authors: Alaiev Daniel , Krouss Mona , Israilov Sigal , Musser Lara , Talledo Joseph , Mestari Nessreen , Uppal Amit , Madaline Theresa , Cohen Gabriel , Bravo Nathaniel , Cervantes Marialeah , Contractor Daniel , Manchego Peter Alacron , Chandra Komal , Zaurova Milana , Tsega Surafel , Cho Hyung J.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are increasingly used for vascular access in inpatient settings. Compared to multilumen PICCs, single-lumen PICCs carry a lower rate of complications, including central-line–associated bloodstream infection and thrombosis. Despite this, multilumen PICCs are still overused.

Methods:

This quality improvement initiative was implemented across 11 hospitals at New York City Health + Hospitals safety net system. The electronic health record (EHR) interventional radiology or vascular access team consultation orders were modified to allow for lumen choice, with default selection to a single-lumen PICC.

Results:

Average single-lumen PICC utilization increased by 25.5%, from 44.4% to 69.9% (P < .001). CLABSI rates had a nonsignificant reduction by 26.7% from 2.44 to 1.79 infections per month (P = .255). Among provider types in the postintervention period, single-lumen PICC utilization ranged from 67.7% for advanced practice providers to 82.4%–94.6% for physicians. Among provider specialties, utilization ranged from 31.8% for neurology to 97.7% for orthopedics. Additionally, there was large variation in pre- and postintervention differences in utilization by hospital.

Conclusions:

We successfully increased single-lumen PICC utilization across all 11 safety net hospitals. This expands on previous work on improving single-lumen PICC use and use of default nudges in large, resource-limited settings. Further study is needed to examine variation among provider types, specialties, and hospitals.
I want to believe: Prior beliefs influence judgments about the effectiveness of both alternative and scientific medicine
Authors: Vicente Lucía , Blanco Fernando , Matute Helena
Published: March 2023

Previous research suggests that people may develop stronger causal illusions when the existence of a causal relationship is consistent with their prior beliefs. In the present study, we hypothesized that prior pseudoscientific beliefs will influence judgments about the effectiveness of both alternative medicine and scientific medicine. Participants (N = 98) were exposed to an adaptation of the standard causal illusion task in which they had to judge whether two fictitious treatments, one described as conventional medicine and the other as alternative medicine, could heal the crises caused by two different syndromes. Since both treatments were completely ineffective, those believing that any of the two medicines worked were exhibiting a causal illusion. Participants also responded to the Pseudoscience Endorsement Scale (PES) and some questions about trust in alternative therapies that were taken from the Survey on the Social Perception of Science and Technology conducted by FECYT. The results replicated the causal illusion effect and extended them by revealing an interaction between the prior pseudoscientific beliefs and the scientific/pseudoscientific status of the fictitious treatment. Individuals reporting stronger pseudoscientific beliefs were more vulnerable to the illusion in both scenarios, whereas participants with low adherence to pseudoscientific beliefs seemed to be more resistant to the illusion in the alternative medicine scenario.