bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Fluctuation of the Price of Crude Oil in Nigeria Using ARCH, ARCH-M Models
Authors: Monday Titus Eli , Abdulkadir Ahmed
Published: April 2020

As a mono-product economy, where the main export commodity is crude oil, volatility in oil prices has implications for the Nigerian economy and, in particular, exchange rate movements. The latter is particularly important due to the twin dilemma of being an oil exporting and oil-importing country, a situation that emerged in the last decade. The study examined the effects of oil price volatility, demand for foreign exchange, and external reserves on exchange rate volatility in Nigeria using monthly data over the period from May, 1989 to April 2019. Drawing from the works of Atoi [1] Having realized the potentials of an Autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (ARCH) model several studies have use it in modeling financial series. However, when using the ARCH model in determining the optimal lag length of variables the processes are very cumbersome. Therefore, often time users encounter problems of over parameterization. Thus, Rydberg (2016) argued that since large lag values are required in ARCH model therefore there is the need for additional parameters. Sequel to that, this research uses the ARCH-M to solve the challenges. The study reaffirms the direct link of demand for foreign exchange and oil price volatility with exchange rate movements and, therefore, recommends that demand for foreign exchange should be closely monitored and exchange rate should move in tandem with the volatility in crude oil prices bearing in mind that Nigeria remains an oil-dependent economy.
Evaluation of Heart Rate Variability in Critically-ill Neonates
Authors: Nassar Fatmah , Ibrahim Ashraf , Zoair Amr , Rowisha Mohamed
Published: April 2020

Aims: The objective of this work was to evaluate heart rate variability (HRV) in critically-ill neonates admitted to NICU, to detect the effect of different causes of critical illness on cardiac autonomic function and outcome of these neonates.

Study Design: Case-control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Pediatric Department, Tanta University Hospital, in the period from January 2018 to May 2019.

Methodology: We included 30 neonates who were critically-ill according to Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology with Perinatal Extension II (SNAPPE-II score) as cases Group. Fifteen healthy full term neonates, matched for age and sex, were enrolled as a control group. 24-hour Holter monitoring was performed with recording and interpretation of ECG data for every neonate in the study, including analysis of HRV.

Results: There was significant increase of mean HR in critically-ill neonates as compared to control group. There was significant decrease of all HRV parameters (SDNN, SDANN, SDNNI, RMSSD and PNN50) in critically-ill neonates as compared to control group (P< 0.05). Significant negative correlations between SNAPPE-II score and HRV parameters (SDNN, SDANN, SDNNI, RMSSD, PNN50) in critically-ill neonates were present, whereas there was non-significant positive correlation between SNAPPE-II score and mean heart rate.

Conclusion: HRV parameters decreased significantly in critically-ill neonates admitted to NICU, denoting severe cardiac autonomic dysfunction in these sick newborn infants. HRV strongly correlated to severity (SNAPPE-II score) and outcome, with strong relation to mortality of these critically-ill neonates.
Body Circumferential Anthropometric Features of Ijaws of Southern Nigeria
Authors: Okoh P. D. , Fawehinmi H. B.
Published: April 2020

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the circumferential anthropometric body characteristics of adult male Ijaws of southern Nigeria.

Methodology: The research design was a non-experimental, cross-sectional design. It made use of a total number of four hundred (400) subjects whose ages ranged between 21 to 40 years with BMI of 18.50 to <30.00. Individuals whose BMI fell within the category of overweight according to conventional BMI classification were included in the study because they looked apparently healthier than those with BMI classified as normal. Minimum sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane’s formula. Circumferential body anthropometric measurements and BMI were taken using stadiometer, digital calipers, calibrated flexible meter tape and weighting scale. Statistical analysis was done using statistical package for the social science (SPSS version 25.0) and Microsoft Excel 2019. Continuous variables were presented as mean±SD; minimum and maximum. Age was categorized into two groups (21 – 30 and 31 – 40) years while Body Mass Index (BMI) was also categorized into two; normal weight (18.5 – 24.9) and slightly overweight (25.0 – 30.7). Independent sample t-test was therefore carried out to determine significant difference in the measured anthropometric parameters according to age. The confidence interval was set at 95%, therefore p< 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Results were presented in tables. Age and BMI were had no impact on the studied anthropometric parameters as there were no statistically significant difference seen when compared across age and BMI groups. On comparison with other racial populations, racial variation was observed.

Conclusion: Circumferential anthropometric studies are mainly used to demonstrate health status, growth rate and other population demography. This study catalogued anthropometric description of body circumference of the Ijaw ethnic group. These anthropometric values will be useful in medical studies and forensics.
ASIC1a inhibits cell pyroptosis induced by acid‐induced activation of rat hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Li Jun , Kong Lingjin , Huang Huiping , Luan Shaohua , Jin Rui , Wu Fanrong
Published: April 2020

The activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is associated with liver fibrosis, the pathological feature of most forms of chronic hepatic damage, and is accompanied by abnormal deposition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). During the pathological process, acid‐sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a), which is responsible for Ca2+ transportation, is involved in the activation of HSCs. It has previously been identified that ASIC1a is related to pyroptosis in articular chondrocytes. However, it remains unclear whether ASIC1a restrains pyroptosis during liver fibrosis. Here, we determined that the levels of pyroptosis‐associated speck‐like protein, gasdermin D, caspase‐1, nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain (NOD)‐like receptor 3, and apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein (ASC) decreased, while the level of α‐smooth muscle actin and collagen‐I increased upon introduction of ASIC1a into an acid‐induced model. Inhibition or silencing of ASIC1a and the use of Ca2+‐free medium were able to promote the pyroptosis of activated HSCs, which reduced their deposition. In summary, our study indicates that ASIC1a inhibits pyroptosis of HSCs and that inhibition of ASIC1a may be able to promote pyroptosis to relieve liver fibrosis.
A longitudinal evaluation of improvements in treatment plan quality for lung cancer with volumetric modulated arc therapy
Authors: Xia Wenlong , Liu Zhiqiang , Yan Lingling , Han Fei , Hu Zhihui , Tian Yuan , Cui Weijie , Ren Wenting , Guo Chenlei , Miao Junjie , Dai Jianrong
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To investigate planning time and number of optimizations in routine clinical lung cancer plans based on the plan quality improvements following each optimization.

Materials and method

We selected 40 patients with lung cancer who were treated with conventional fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT). The 40 plans (divided into two groups with one or two target volumes) were completed by 9 planners using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). A planning strategy, including technique script for each group and a planning process for data collection, was introduced. The total planning time, number of optimizations, and dose–volume parameters of each plan were recorded and analyzed. A plan quality metric (PQM) was defined according to the clinical constraints. Statistical analysis of parameters of each plan following each optimization was performed for evaluating improvements in plan quality.

Results

According to the clinical plans generated by different planners, the median number of optimizations of each group was 4, and the median planning time was approximately 1 h (68.6 min and 62.0 min for plans with one or two target volumes, respectively). The dose deposited in organs at risk (OARs) gradually decreased, and the PQM values gradually improved following each optimization. The improvements were significant only between adjacent optimizations from the first optimization (Opt1) to the third optimization (Opt3).

Conclusion

Increasing the number of optimizations was associated with significantly improved sparing of OARs with slight effects on the dose coverage and homogeneity of target volume. Generally, based on the designed planning strategy, there was no significant improvement of the plan quality for more than three optimizations.
How Do Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis Experience High‐Intensity Exercise?
Authors: Bilberg Annelie , Sveaas Silje H. , Dagfinrud Hanne , Mannerkorpi Kaisa
Published: April 2020

Objective

In a few studies, high‐intensity exercise has displayed beneficial effects on cardiovascular health among patients with rheumatic diseases, yet the high‐intensity exercise mode is still not fully accepted among health care professionals. The aim of this study was to investigate experiences of high‐intensity exercise among patients with axial spondyloarthritis.

Methods

Fourteen respondents who had participated in a high‐intensity exercise program for 12 weeks were included in this qualitative study with individual semistructured, in‐depth interviews. The respondents’ median age was 53, ranging from 23 to 63 years old, and both men and women of different ethnicities were represented. Interviews were analyzed by qualitative content analysis, including both manifest content and interpretations of underlying latent meaning.

Results

The analysis resulted in five categories describing the respondents’ experiences with high‐intensity exercise: 1) high‐intensity exercise as a challenge for both body and mind, 2) increased faith in one's own body, 3) changed attitude toward exercise, 4) taking charge of one's own health by challenging the disease, and 5) exercise in a social context.

Conclusion

Supervised high‐intensity interval exercise was perceived as challenging for both body and mind but was also described as a positive experience, with rapid bodily effects that strengthened respondents’ faith in their own bodies. The new experience seemed to have changed the respondents’ attitude and motivation for exercise and made them start taking charge of their health by challenging the disease. Exercise in a social context, under professional leadership, enhanced exercise self‐efficacy and helped the respondents to adhere to the exercise program.
Polarization Reflector/Color Filter at Visible Frequencies via Anisotropic α‐MoO3
Authors: Wei Chenwei , Abedini Dereshgi Sina , Song Xianglian , Murthy Akshay , Dravid Vinayak P. , Cao Tun , Aydin Koray
Published: April 2020

2D van der Waals materials have attracted increasing attention in recent years due to their exciting physical properties and offer new opportunities for creating devices with enhanced or novel functionalities. In particular, α‐MoO3 is an emerging member of the fast‐growing 2D family with strong natural anisotropic optical properties. However, anisotropic optical properties of ‐MoO3 in the visible frequency range remain elusive. Here, α‐MoO3 is investigated as an optical material at the visible frequency (450–750 nm), which exhibits a polarization‐dependent complex refractive index due to the anisotropic crystal structure. As a proof of concept, polarization‐sensitive photonic devices including polarization reflectors and polarization color filters are designed and realized by constructing metal–insulator–metal Fabry–Perot cavities. It is observed that resonance frequencies for designed transmission and reflection filters change up to 25 nm with incident polarization which stems from the polarization‐dependent complex refractive indices of α‐MoO3. The largest contrasts are observed for two orthogonal polarization states parallel to the two orthogonal in‐plane crystal directions. The approach in this study offers new directions for potential applications in the development of polarization‐dependent devices based on 2D van der Waals materials for visible frequencies.
Zinc Hydroxide‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylation of Acetophenones with Amido‐Functionalized Allylboronate in Water
Authors: Sengoku Tetsuya , Maegawa Ryunosuke , Imamura Hiroki , Wada Mitsuo , Yoda Hidemi
Published: April 2020

Enantioselective allylation of aldehydes and ketones is a widely used approach for preparing chiral homoallylic alcohols, however, most of the reactions are still mainly performed in organic solvents. Considering their environmental impact, expansion of synthetic technology in water has the highest priority in the organic chemistry field. Here, we report enantioselective reaction of water‐stable amido‐functionalized allylboronates with acetophenone derivatives in water. The reaction was catalyzed with zinc hydroxide and a didecylamino‐functionalized chiral aminophenol reagent, affording a variety of homoallylic alcohols in up to 99% yield. There is a definite proportional correlation between the enantioselectivity and the size of an ortho‐substituent on the substrate, and the enantiomeric excess of the product reached up to 98%.

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Correlating Macro and Atomic Structure with Elastic Properties and Ionic Transport of Glassy Li2S‐P2S5 (LPS) Solid Electrolyte for Solid‐State Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Garcia‐Mendez Regina , Smith Jeffrey G. , Neuefeind Joerg C. , Siegel Donald J. , Sakamoto Jeff
Published: April 2020

A combination of high ionic conductivity and facile processing suggest that sulfide‐based materials are promising solid electrolytes that have the potential to enable Li metal batteries. Although the Li2S‐P2S5 (LPS) family of compounds exhibit desirable characteristics, it is known that Li metal preferentially propagates through microstructural defects, such as particle boundaries and/or pores. Herein, it is demonstrated that a near theoretical density (98% relative density) LPS 75‐25 glassy electrolyte exhibiting high ionic conductivity can be achieved by optimizing the molding pressure and temperature. The optimal molding pressure reduces porosity and particle boundaries while preserving the preferred amorphous structure. Moreover, molecular rearrangements and favorable Li coordination environments for conduction are attained. Consequently, the Young's Modulus approximately doubles (30 GPa) and the ionic conductivity increases by a factor of five (1.1 mS cm−1) compared to conventional room temperature molding conditions. It is believed that this study can provide mechanistic insight into processing‐structure‐property relationships that can be used as a guide to tune microstructural defects/properties that have been identified to have an effect on the maximum charging current that a solid electrolyte can withstand during cycling without short‐circuiting.
Using Simulation‐Based Education to Improve Team Communication During a Massive Transfusion Protocol in the OR
Authors: Vortman Rebecca
Published: April 2020

Hemorrhaging during operative and other invasive procedures can result in devastating outcomes for surgical patients. An effective plan of action in the form of a massive transfusion protocol (MTP), along with teamwork and clear communication among OR personnel, is critical during a hemorrhagic crisis to improve patient outcomes. However, perioperative personnel may be unprepared to manage a hemorrhagic crisis because they lack experiential knowledge of these uncommon, high‐risk scenarios. Perioperative leaders at a 500‐bed acute‐care hospital in the Midwest developed an educational activity involving a video‐recorded simulated MTP scenario, learning modules, and debriefing sessions to educate more than 150 employees. Perioperative personnel received pre‐education and watched the video‐recorded MTP simulation together, and then participated in team debriefings after watching the video. Based on team debriefings and evaluation feedback, most staff members believed that the activity improved team communication.
Covariate‐dependent control limits for the detection of abnormal price changes in scanner data
Authors: Kim Youngrae , Kim Sangkyun , Lim Johan , Lee Sungim , Son Won , Hwang Heejin
Published: April 2020

Currently, large‐scale data for consumer goods, called scanner data, are obtained by scanning the bar codes of individual products at the points of sale of retail outlets. Many national statistical offices use scanner data to build consumer price statistics. In this process, as in other statistical procedures, the detection of abnormal transactions in sales prices is an important step in the analysis. Popular methods for conducting such outlier detection are the quartile method, the Hidiroglou‐Berthelot method, the resistant fences method, and the Tukey algorithm. These methods are based solely on information about price changes and not on any of the other covariates (eg, sales volume or types of retail shops) that are also available from scanner data. In this article, we propose a new method to detect abnormal price changes that take into account an additional covariate, namely, sales volume. We assume that the variance of the log of the price change is a smooth function of the sales volume and estimate the function from previously observed data. We numerically show the advantages of the new method over existing methods. We also apply the methods to real scanner data collected at weekly intervals by the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry between 2013 and 2014 and compare their performance.
Does organisational sustainability policies affect environmental attitude of employees? The missing link of green work climate perceptions
Authors: Dahiya Rinki
Published: April 2020

Amid the forbidding actions of humankind on environment, contemporary organisations are increasingly developing and implementing sustainable policies for encouraging employee green behaviour. Work climate perceptions may serve as a psychological mechanism that relate to such organisational policies and employee behaviour. Considering this notion, the present study aims to examine the association between perceived presence of organisational sustainability polices and employee report of their environmental attitude (proactive and task related green behaviour) with the mediating role of perceptions of green work climate (orientation of organisations and co‐workers). The findings based on survey of 183 employees indicated that perceptions of green orientations of organisation and co‐workers differentially mediated the link between perceived presence of organisational sustainability polices and employee proactive and task‐related green behaviour. These findings advocate the prominence of relevant psychological mechanism that link organisational sustainability policies with green behaviour of employees and extend the literature on efficacy of workplace sustainability policies.
Adherence status to Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy in Chinese Women with Early Breast Cancer and its influencing factors: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Xu Hui , Jin Feng , Zhang Xiu‐jie , Wang Da‐qiu , Yu Shao‐fen , Wang Ai‐ping
Published: April 2020

Objective

Despite the proven benefits of adjuvant endocrine therapy, adherence to oral endocrine therapy in breast cancer treatment is a substantial problem. The aim of this study was to assess adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy by women in China for the first 5 years, and to identify its influencing factors.

Methods

Stratified sampling method was adopted to select 1875 cases of breast cancer patients for cross‐sectional telephone follow‐up. Compliance to medications was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale. Status of endocrine therapy was assessed using nine additional questions. Binomial regression was used when assessing the factors associated with persistence, multinomial regression models were used to assess factors associated with compliance.

Results

Of 888 patients who started adjuvant endocrine therapy, 769(86.6%) persisted and 119 (13.4%) discontinued. 760 patients who completed Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, the compliance was 7.4% low, 42% medium, and 50.6% high. The type of medication, duration of medication and side effects had an impact both on persistence and compliance. Age, history of radiotherapy and caregivers only had an impact on persistence.

Conclusions

Medication adherence was affected by many factors. Special attention and interventions should be given to women taking tamoxifen in the 2nd to 3rd year of medication, and aromatase inhibitors in the 1st to 2nd year. Further prospective design studies are needed to explore effective measures to improve medication adherence of women with breast cancer treated by endocrine therapy.
Comparison of vaginal microbiota in gynecologic cancer patients pre‐ and post‐radiation therapy and healthy women
Authors: Tsementzi Despina , Pena‐Gonzalez Angela , Bai Jinbing , Hu Yi‐Juan , Patel Pretesh , Shelton Joseph , Dolan Mary , Arluck Jessica , Khanna Namita , Conrad Lesley , Scott Isabelle , Eng Tony Y. , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Bruner Deborah W.
Published: April 2020

Background

While the importance of commensal microbes in vaginal health is well appreciated, little is known about the effects of gynecological cancer (GynCa) and radiation therapy (RT) on the vaginal microbiome (VM) of postmenopausal women.

Methods

We studied women with GynCa, pre‐ (N = 65) and post‐RT (N = 25) and a group of healthy controls (N = 67) by sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene from vaginal swabs and compared the diversity and composition of VMs between the three groups accounting for potential confounding factors in multivariate analysis of variance.

Results

Comparisons of cancer vs healthy groups revealed that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have significantly higher relative abundance in the healthy group, while the cancer group was enriched in 16 phylogroups associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and inflammation, including Sneathia, Prevotella, Peptoniphilus, Fusobacterium, Anaerococcus, Dialister, Moryella, and Peptostreptococcus. In our sample, RT affected the α‐diversity and correlated with higher abundance of typically rare VM species, including several members of the Lacnospiraceae family, a taxon previously linked to vaginal dysbiosis. In addition to cancer and treatment modalities, age and vaginal pH were identified as significant parameters that structure the VM.

Conclusions

This is among the first reports identifying VM changes among postmenopausal women with cancer. RT alone seems to affect several phylogroups (12 bacterial genera), while gynecological cancer and its treatment modalities are associated with even greater significant shifts in the vaginal microbiota including the enrichment of opportunistic bacterial pathogens, which warrants further attention.
Nanocatalysts Unravel the Selective State of Ag
Authors: Lamoth Maximilian , Jones Travis , Plodinec Milivoj , Machoke Albert , Wrabetz Sabine , Krämer Michael , Karpov Andrey , Rosowski Frank , Piccinin Simone , Schlögl Robert , Frei Elias
Published: April 2020

In the present work, we report on a comparative study of model catalysts during ethylene epoxidation reaction under industrially relevant conditions. The catalysts consist of Ag nanoparticles <6 nm and a reference sample ∼100 nm. Combining catalytic data with transmission electron microscopy, thermal desorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory allows us to show that catalytic performance is linked to the oxygen concentration in/on the Ag particles. Isotope experiments using18O2and C18O2are conducted to gain insight into the nature and location of oxygen in/on the Ag nanoparticles. The oxygen species responsible for the CO2formation and inhibition of the overall catalytic activity are identified, and the abundance of those species is shown to depend strongly on the pre‐treatment and reaction conditions, showing both are critical for effective oxygen management. By comparison with a conventional Ag/α‐Al2O3catalyst, we demonstrate a low concentration of oxygen in/on Ag leads to the highest selectivity regardless of particle size. However, particle size dependent oxophilicity leads to significantly lower TOFs for the Ag nanoparticles. This study provides fundamental understanding of the performance of supported Ag particles in ethylene epoxidation and offers new strategies to improve performance under industrially relevant conditions.
Reporting of health‐related quality of life endpoints in National Cancer Institute–supported cancer treatment trials
Authors: St Germain Diane , Denicoff Andrea , Torres Andrea , Kelaghan Joseph , McCaskill‐Stevens Worta , Mishkin Grace , O’Mara Ann , Minasian Lori M.
Published: April 2020

Background

The importance of capturing and reporting health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in clinical trials has been increasingly recognized in the oncology field. As a result, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) began to provide support for correlative HRQOL studies in cancer treatment trials. The current study was conducted to assess the publication rate of HRQOL correlative studies in NCI‐supported treatment trials and to identify potential factors positively or negatively associated with publication rates.

Methods

The NCI conducted a retrospective review of existing NCI databases to identify cancer treatment trials that had obtained additional NCI funding for the assessment of HRQOL and to determine the extent to which funded HRQOL studies have been completed and published in a peer‐reviewed journal.

Results

Of the 108 included trials, 58 (54%) had a parent trial (PT) publication; of these, 36 trials (62%) had a published HRQOL result: 20 as an independent publication and 16 that were included and/or reported in the PT publication. The length of time between trial activation and closure, as well as the specific cancer, appeared to be associated with the publication rates.

Conclusions

The results of the current study demonstrated that approximately 45% of the PT publications were followed by a HRQOL publication within 1 year, to allow the knowledge to be used in patient treatment decision making. The authors believe the current analysis is an important first step toward a better understand of the challenges that researchers face when reporting HRQOL endpoints.
In silico prototype of a human lung with a single airway to predict particle deposition
Authors: Fernández‐Tena Ana , Barrio‐Perotti Raúl , Blanco‐Marigorta Eduardo , Pandal‐Blanco Adrián
Published: April 2020

Background

Experimental analyses of the flow of drug particles inside the human lung usually require that the patient be exposed to radiation and also of expensive equipment that often lack of enough accuracy. Numerical calculations based on CFD (computational fluid dynamics) have been proven to be a valuable tool to analyze flows in diverse applications.

Methods

The complexity of the human lung disallows running calculations on complete lung models due to the large number of cells that would be required. In this work, using a proprietary methodology, particle deposition in the lung is simulated by reducing its multiple branches to a single path.

Results

The tested flow rates were 18, 30, and 75 L min−1, which are equivalent to different respiratory rates varying from light activity to heavy exercise. Most of the particles are accumulated in the upper airways, mainly at the mouth and also at the confluence of the larynx and the trachea (epiglottis), while the remaining particles travel across the lung. The reported procedure allowed simulating the operation of the entire lung by means of a single individual path.

Conclusions

The obtained calculations are in good agreement with the experimental results found in the technical literature, thus showing that the model can provide a realistic description of the lung operation, while avoiding high computational costs. Moreover, the calculations suggest that particle sizes above 15 μm and inspiratory flows higher than 30 L min−1 must be avoided in order to allow drug particles to reach the lower airways.
Carbon Nanofibers Encapsulated Nickel‐Molybdenum Nanoparticles as Hydrogen Evolution Catalysts for Aqueous Zn−CO2 System
Authors: Asokan Arunchander , Lim Chaehyun , Kim Jeongwon , Kwon Ohhun , Lee Hansol , Joo Sangwook , Jeong Hu Young , Kim Guntae
Published: April 2020

Carbon capture, utilization and storage techniques have been studied extensively to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide. However, CO2 conversion technologies are not widely proposed due to sluggish conversion rate, high energy consumption and need for precious metals as catalysts. Therefore, novel metal‐CO2 electrochemical cell has been proposed to utilize CO2 to produce electricity and H2 gas continuously. Electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction under neutral condition has demanded the overall device performance. Herein, we have developed non‐precious NiMo‐carbon nanofiber‐based catalyst with unique matchstick‐like morphology using low temperature CVD technique and demonstrated in aqueous Zn−CO2 system. The NiMo alloy offers excellent activity by promoting hydrogen adsorption/desorption and chemically bonded carbon nanofiber assists catalytic activity by providing charge transfer. Due to superior characteristics, NiMo‐carbon nanofiber exhibits significant HER activity (over‐potential of 268 mV at 10 mA cm‐2) in CO2‐saturated 1 M KOH and superior cell performance in aqueous Zn−CO2 system (peak power density of 25 mW cm−2). In addition, the stability of the catalysts has also been investigated using chronopotentiometry and the results have compared with commercial Pt/C catalysts. We are hopeful that the present study will provide insights into developing non‐precious electrocatalysts, particularly for metal‐CO2 electrochemical conversion devices.
Gender underlies the formation of STEM research groups
Authors: Start Denon , McCauley Shannon
Published: April 2020

Research groups are the cornerstone of scientific research, yet little is known about how these groups are formed and how their organization is influenced by the gender of the research group leader. This represents an important gap in our understanding of the processes shaping gender structure within universities and the academic fields they represent. Here, we report the results of an email survey sent to department chairs and discipline‐specific listservs. We received responses from 275 female and 175 male research group leaders. Most respondents were biologists (n = 328) but psychology (n = 27), chemistry (n = 16), physics (n = 32), and mathematics (n = 30) were also relatively well represented. We found that men were self‐reported as overrepresented in research groups in the physical sciences, particularly at later career stages. Within biology, male and female group leaders reported supervising a disproportionate number of same‐gender trainees (students and postdoctoral fellows), particularly early in their careers. These self‐reported patterns were driven primarily by gender‐based differences in the pool of students applying to their research groups, while gender differences in acceptance rates played a seemingly smaller role. We discuss the implications of our results for women continuing into the professoriate and for the recruitment of young scientists into research groups.
Simulated solar panels create altered microhabitats in desert landforms
Authors: Tanner Karen E. , Moore‐O'Leary Kara A. , Parker Ingrid M. , Pavlik Bruce M. , Hernandez Rebecca R.
Published: April 2020

Solar energy development is a significant driver of land‐use change worldwide, and desert ecosystems are particularly well suited to energy production because of their high insolation rates. Deserts are also characterized by uncertain rainfall, high species endemism, and distinct landforms that vary in geophysical properties. Weather and physical features that differ across landforms interact with shade and water runoff regimes imposed by solar panels, creating novel microhabitats that influence biotic communities. Endemic species may be particularly affected because they often have limited distributions, narrow climatic envelopes, or specialized life histories. We used experimental panels to simulate the effects of solar development on microhabitats and annual plant communities present on gravelly bajada and caliche pan habitat, two common habitat types in California's Mojave Desert. We evaluated soils and microclimatic conditions and measured community response under panels and in the open for seven years (2012–2018). We found that differences in site characteristics and weather affected the ecological impact of panels on the annual plant community. Panel shade tended to increase species richness on the more stressful caliche pan habitat, and this effect was strongest in dry years. Shade effects on diversity and abundance also tended to be positive or neutral on caliche pan habitat. On gravelly bajada habitat, panel shade did not significantly affect richness or diversity and tended to decrease plant abundance. Panel runoff rarely affected richness or diversity on either habitat type, but effects on abundance tended to be negative—suggesting that panel rain shadows were more important than runoff from low‐volume rain events. These results demonstrate that the ecological consequences of solar development can vary over space and time, and suggest that a nuanced approach will be needed to predict impacts across desert landforms differing in physical characteristics.
Association between loop diuretic dose changes and outcomes in chronic heart failure: observations from the ESC‐EORP Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry
Authors: Kapelios Chris J. , Laroche Cécile , Crespo‐Leiro Maria G. , Anker Stefan D. , Coats Andrew J.S. , Díaz‐Molina Beatria , Filippatos Gerasimos , Lainscak Mitja , Maggioni Aldo P. , McDonagh Theresa , Mebazaa Alexandre , Metra Marco , Moura Brenda , Mullens Wilfried , Piepoli Massimo F. , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Ruschitzka Frank , Seferovic Petar M. , Lund Lars H. ,   Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry Investigators Group
Published: April 2020

Aims

Guidelines recommend down‐titration of loop diuretics (LD) once euvolaemia is achieved. In outpatients with heart failure (HF), we investigated LD dose changes in daily cardiology practice, agreement with guideline recommendations, predictors of successful LD down‐titration and association between dose changes and outcomes.

Methods and results

We included 8130 HF patients from the ESC‐EORP Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry. Among patients who had dose decreased, successful decrease was defined as the decrease not followed by death, HF hospitalization, New York Heart Association class deterioration, or subsequent increase in LD dose. Mean age was 66 ± 13 years, 71% men, 62% HF with reduced ejection fraction, 19% HF with mid‐range ejection fraction, 19% HF with preserved ejection fraction. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] LD dose was 40 (25–80) mg. LD dose was increased in 16%, decreased in 8.3% and unchanged in 76%. Median (IQR) follow‐up was 372 (363–419) days. Diuretic dose increase (vs. no change) was associated with HF death [hazard ratio (HR) 1.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12–2.08; P = 0.008] and nominally with cardiovascular death (HR 1.25, 95% CI 0.96–1.63; P = 0.103). Decrease of diuretic dose (vs. no change) was associated with nominally lower HF (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.33–1.07; P = 0.083) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.62,

95% CI 0.38–1.00; P = 0.052). Among patients who had LD dose decreased, systolic blood pressure [odds ratio (OR) 1.11 per 10 mmHg increase, 95% CI 1.01–1.22; P = 0.032], and absence of (i) sleep apnoea (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.09–0.69; P = 0.008), (ii) peripheral congestion (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29–0.80; P = 0.005), and (iii) moderate/severe mitral regurgitation (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.37–0.87; P = 0.008) were independently associated with successful decrease.

Conclusion

Diuretic dose was unchanged in 76% and decreased in 8.3% of outpatients with chronic HF. LD dose increase was associated with worse outcomes, while the LD dose decrease group showed a trend for better outcomes compared with the no‐change group. Higher systolic blood pressure, and absence of (i) sleep apnoea, (ii) peripheral congestion, and (iii) moderate/severe mitral regurgitation were independently associated with successful dose decrease.
Hybrid simulation: An early history
Authors: Nakashima Masayoshi
Published: April 2020

This historical note reports on the early days of the development of an experimental method called “hybrid simulation.” As background, the seeds of this concept, initiated in the early 1970s by Japanese researchers, are presented first, followed by initial efforts (regarded as Stage I) to realize the concept of hybrid simulation and its first applications to explore the seismic performance of structures. The initial research in this now‐seminal field of earthquake engineering began in the early 1970s by Koichi Takanashi and his coworkers at the Institute of Industrial Science, the University of Tokyo. Their highly notable efforts in laying the groundwork for hybrid simulation occurred in the mid‐1970s through the early 1980s by Takanashi (for steel structures) and Tsuneo Okada (for RC structures). These two men and their coworkers first applied hybrid simulation to explore the seismic behavior, performance, and design of various types of building structures. In Stage I, this method was called “the on‐line computer‐controlled test” or “pseudo dynamic test” because the unique feature of the method was the combined test and simulation and the intentional slow loading in the test. Extension of the scope and application of hybrid simulation occurred largely between the early 1980s and the early 1990s (regarded as Stage II) in conjunction with the United States–Japan joint research project. A few notable efforts made around that period are touched upon briefly, including error propagation and suppression in multi‐degree‐of‐freedom hybrid simulation, application of the substructure methodology to hybrid simulation, and real‐time hybrid simulation.
A novel MBTD1‐PHF1 gene fusion in endometrial stromal sarcoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Han Lisa , Liu Yajuan J. , Ricciotti Robert W. , Mantilla Jose G.
Published: April 2020

The classification of endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) has been refined and aided by the discovery of various recurrent gene translocations. Low‐grade ESS (LG‐ESS) is most commonly characterized by JAZF1‐SUZ12 fusions followed by rearrangements involving PHD finger protein‐1 (PHF1) and multiple fusion partners, including JAZF1, EPC1, EPC2, and MEAF6. In the present study, integrating anchored polymerase chain reaction and paired‐end next‐generation ribonucleic acid sequencing, we identified the presence of a novel malignant brain tumor domain‐containing 1 (MBTD1)‐PHF1 gene fusion in a case of LG‐ESS. MBTD1 belongs to the Polycomb gene group, and its fusion with PHF1 is predicted to mediate tumorigenesis through aberrant transcriptional repression. Histology and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated conventional morphology for LG‐ESS and clinical follow‐up showed no progression of disease after 6 months. These findings help expand the current knowledge on the spectrum of gene rearrangements in the diagnosis of ESS.
Digitales Planen, Bauen und Betreiben von Untertagebauten – DAUB‐Empfehlung zu BIM im Untertagebau
Authors: Ehrbar Heinz , Franz Stefan , Weiner Thorsten , Fentzloff Wolfgang , Frodl Stephan
Published: April 2020

The digitalisation of many areas of the economy is progressing, also in construction, where the intention is to provide information about built facilities for decision‐makers concerning the design, building and operation of construction works in a consistently high quality, easily read and data‐based. Until now, digitalisation in construction has been retarded by the high complexity of construction, which should however now rapidly change. The DAUB recommendation ”Digital Design, Building and Operation of Underground Structures“ is intended to make a contribution in this regard.

Recommendations from the German Tunnelling Committee DAUB normally represent ”best practice“ solutions from German tunnelling. For Building Information Modelling (BIM) in tunnelling, there is not however yet sufficient experience. There have indeed been many solutions on projects but there is a lack of the appropriate standards for systematically applicable industry‐wide solutions. The DAUB recommendations show how appropriate standards can be created. The following article discusses selected themes from the DAUB recommendations.
Machine Learning in tunnelling – Capabilities and challenges
Authors: Marcher Thomas , Erharter Georg H. , Winkler Manuel
Published: April 2020

Digitalization will change the way of gathering geological data, methods of rock classification, application of design analyses in the field of tunnelling as well as tunnel construction and maintenance processes. In recent years, a rapid increase in the successful application of digital techniques (Building Information Modelling and Machine Learning (ML)) for a variety of challenging tasks has been observed. Driven by the increasing overall amount of data combined with the easy availability of more computing power, a sharp increase in the successful deployment of techniques of ML has been seen for different tasks. ML has been introduced in many sciences and technologies and it has finally arrived in the fields of geotechnical engineering, tunnelling and engineering geology, although still not as far developed as in other disciplines. This paper focuses on the potential of ML methods for geotechnical purposes in general and tunnelling in particular. Applications such as automatic rock mass behaviour classification using data from tunnel boring machines (TBM), updating of the geological prognosis ahead of the tunnel face, data driven interpretation of 3D displacement data or fully automatic tunnel inspection will be discussed.
The Role of Metabolic Lipases in the Pathogenesis and Management of Liver Disease
Authors: Tardelli Matteo , Bruschi Francesca Virginia , Trauner Michael
Published: April 2020

Intracellular lipolysis is an enzymatic pathway responsible for the catabolism of triglycerides (TGs) that is complemented by lipophagy as the autophagic breakdown of lipid droplets. The hydrolytic cleavage of TGs generates free fatty acids (FFAs), which can serve as energy substrates, precursors for lipid synthesis, and mediators in cell signaling. Despite the fundamental and physiological importance of FFAs, an oversupply can trigger lipotoxicity with impaired membrane function, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, cell death, and inflammation. Conversely, impaired release of FFAs and other lipid mediators can also disrupt key cellular signaling functions that regulate metabolism and inflammatory processes. This review will focus on specific functions of intracellular lipases in lipid partitioning, covering basic and translational findings in the context of liver disease. In addition, the clinical relevance of genetic mutations in human disease and potential therapeutic opportunities will be discussed.
Measuring the invisible: Development and multi‐industry validation of the Gender Bias Scale for Women Leaders
Authors: Diehl Amy B. , Stephenson Amber L. , Dzubinski Leanne M. , Wang David C.
Published: April 2020

Gender bias is a pervasive problem with significant negative outcomes for women leaders and organizations. Bias manifests in a multiplicity of forms, ranging from subtle to overt. To date, no instrument exists to measure women leaders' perceptions of gender bias. This study presents a comprehensive measure of how women leaders perceive and experience gender bias. Drawing from a national sample of female higher education executives (n = 488), faith‐based organization leaders (n = 298), physicians (n = 293), and attorneys (n = 527), the present research developed and validated the Gender Bias Scale for Women Leaders. Building upon a previously established and expansive cross‐level conceptual framework to develop the initial item pool, results from both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis supported a factor structure consisting of six higher‐order and 15 lower‐order factors. Our results show that several factors of the Gender Bias Scale correlated with workplace outcomes of turnover intention and satisfaction. Human resource development (HRD) professionals may use the Gender Bias Scale to identify the specific types of bias prevalent for women leaders in their organizations and apply interventions accordingly. Implications for women leaders and HRD professionals and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Experimental investigation of ice‐chamber for melting of ice based on Scheffler solar concentrator for high altitude regions
Authors: Agrawal Himanshu , Yadav Avadhesh
Published: April 2020

This experimental analysis was performed with the aim to melt the ice into hot water at very high altitude regions such as Leh Ladakh. Three different designs of ice‐chamber were used to melt the ice with direct heating in minimum time. The radiations were focused on the receiver with the help of 1 m2 Scheffler solar concentrator exposed to the atmospheric situations of NIT Kurukshetra. The Scheffler solar concentrator was fabricated with fiber‐reinforced plastic material. The fabrication process is discussed in detail. The results obtained from the design showed that the ice frozen at −5°C completely melted, converting into water. The maximum temperature of water attained in the ice‐chamber with receiver 1 (circular plate with fins), 2 (CPC with fins), and 3 (copper crucible) was 57.7°C, 64.3°C, and 67.4°C, respectively.
Impact of support material type on performance of dynamic membrane bioreactors treating municipal wastewater
Authors: Isik Onur , Hudayarizka Riza , Abdelrahman Amr M , Ozgun Hale , Ersahin Mustafa E , Demir Ibrahim , Koyuncu Ismail
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Membrane bioreactor (MBR) applications have been limited by high cost of membrane modules and fouling problems. Dynamic membrane (DM) technology can be a solution for these problems. Low‐cost filters can be used as support materials for dynamic (cake) layer formation. The characteristics of support material play an important role on dynamic layer formation behavior. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of support material type on dynamic membrane bioreactor (DMBR) performance for municipal wastewater treatment. Hollow fiber support materials, made of polyester fabrics and glass fiber materials, were used for DM formation.

RESULTS

Similar treatment performances were obtained with each membrane achieving high removal efficiencies for chemical oxygen demand (>97%) and total suspended solids (>99%) parameters. Higher transmembrane pressure (TMP) was observed for glass fiber material in comparison to polyester material. Based on morphological analyses, dynamic layers formed on both support materials had similar composition, organic and inorganic materials. A homogeneous layer was formed on polyester support material, while fine particles were deposited between the filaments of glass fiber support material, which caused clogging.

CONCLUSION

Based on TMP results and morphological analyses, polyester support material provided better formation of DM layer. Thus selection of proper support material type is very important to achieve stable DM layer in DMBRs. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry