bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Monte Carlo simulated beam quality and perturbation correction factors for ionization chambers in monoenergetic proton beams
Authors: Kretschmer Jana , Dulkys Anna , Brodbek Leonie , Stelljes Tenzin Sonam , Looe Hui Khee , Poppe Björn 
Published: September 2020

PurposeBeam quality correction factors provided in current codes of practice for proton beams are approximated using the water‐to‐air mass stopping power ratio and by assuming the proton beam quality related perturbation correction factors to be unity. The aim of this work is to use Monte Carlo simulations to calculate energy dependent beam quality and perturbation correction factors for a set of nine ionization chambers in proton beams.MethodsThe Monte Carlo code EGSnrc was used to determine the ratio of the absorbed dose to water and the absorbed dose to the sensitive air volume of ionization chambers related to the reference photon beam quality (60Co). For proton beams, the quantity was simulated with GATE/Geant4 for five monoenergetic beam energies between 70 MeV and 250 MeV. The perturbation correction factors for the air cavity, chamber wall, chamber stem, central electrode, and displacement effect in proton radiation were investigated separately. Additionally, the correction factors of cylindrical chambers were investigated with and without consideration of the effective point of measurement.ResultsThe perturbation factors were shown to deviate from unity for the investigated chambers, contradicting the assumptions made in dosimetry protocols. The beam quality correction factors for both plane‐parallel and cylindrical chambers positioned with the effective point of measurement at the measurement depth were constant within 0.8%. An increase of the beam quality correction factors determined for cylindrical ionization chambers placed with their reference point at the measurement depth with decreasing energy is attributed to the displacement perturbation correction factors , which were up to 1.045 ± 0.1% for the lowest energy and 1.005 ± 0.1% for the highest energy investigated. Besides , the largest perturbation was found for the chamber wall where the smallest determined was 0.981 ± 0.3%.ConclusionsBeam quality correction factors applied in dosimetry with cylindrical chambers in monoenergetic proton beams strongly depend on the positioning method used. We found perturbation correction factors different from unity. Consequently, the approximation of ionization chamber perturbations in proton beams by the respective water‐to‐air mass stopping power ratio shall be revised.
Patient acceptability of the physiotherapy first contact practitioner role in primary care: A realist informed qualitative study
Authors: Morris Leah , Moule Pam , Pearson Jennifer , Foster Dave , Walsh Nicola 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundApproximately 30% of general practitioner (GP) consultations are due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs). Physiotherapists are trained to assess, diagnose and treat MSKDs and provide an alternative to GP consultation for primary care patients as first contact physiotherapists (FCPs).AimTo explore patient perceived acceptability of the FCP role using realist methods to understand what works for whom, how, why and in what circumstances.MethodsA realist evaluation was undertaken, which involved three stages: forming the theory area framework; testing the theory framework and refining the programme theory. The theory framework was formed through realist synthesis. Realist interviews tested this framework. Data were collected from two GP practice case study sites and interviews were undertaken at each site. N = 20 participants were interviewed in total. In each practice, this constituted patients (n = 5), GPs (n = 1), FCPs (n = 2), receptionists (n = 1) and practice managers (n = 1). Interview data were analysed against preliminary hypotheses and, where appropriate, new theory areas were created.ResultsThe evaluation highlighted that acceptability of the FCP role was influenced by ‘expectations’, ‘accessibility’ and ‘promoting the role’. Whilst some findings were shared by both practices, different contexts resulted in unique practice findings.ConclusionPatients were predominantly accepting of FCPs, nevertheless, there was a scope to increase acceptability through an implementation strategy that considered the contexts of the individual patient, as well as wider practice contexts.
Diagnostic criteria for idiopathic small fiber neuropathy: A systematic review
Authors: Haroutounian Simon , Todorovic Marko S. , Leinders Mathias , Campagnolo Marta , Gewandter Jennifer S. , Dworkin Robert H. , Freeman Roy 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIdiopathic small fiber neuropathy (iSFN) lacks broadly accepted diagnostic criteria, which hinders its timely diagnosis and treatment. A systematic literature review was performed to assess the published screening and diagnostic criteria for iSFN, excluding studies where SFN was of well‐established etiology. Eighty‐four clinical studies and seven guideline/review publications were included in this systematic review. Substantial heterogeneity existed in iSFN diagnostic criteria. The most common set of criteria to diagnose iSFN [presence of any symptoms of iSFN, absence of large fiber involvement, and reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD)] was used in only 14% of studies. Mandatory individual criteria to confirm iSFN included any sensory symptoms (60% of studies), pain (19% of studies), small fiber signs (20% of studies), absence of large fiber signs (62% of studies), reduced IENFD (38% of studies), and autonomic symptoms (1% of studies). This review highlights a clear need for standardized, evidence‐based guidelines for diagnosing iSFN.
Model order reduction for delay systems by iterative interpolation
Authors: Alfke Dominik , Feng Lihong , Lombardi Luigi , Antonini Giulio , Benner Peter 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAdaptive algorithms for computing the reduced‐order model of time‐delay systems (TDSs) are proposed in this work. The algorithms are based on interpolating the transfer function at multiple expansion points and greedy iterations for selecting the expansion points. The ‐error of the reduced transfer function is used as the criterion for choosing the next new expansion point. One heuristic greedy algorithm and one algorithm based on the error system and adaptive sub‐interval selection are developed. Results on four TDSs with tens of delays from electromagnetic applications are presented and show the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
The effect of multiple exposures in scenario‐based simulation—A mixed study systematic review
Authors: Svellingen Alette H. , Søvik Margrethe B. , Røykenes Kari , Brattebø Guttorm 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAimsTo examine the use and effects of multiple simulations in nursing education.DesignA mixed study systematic review. Databases (CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, ERIC, Education source and Science Direct) were searched for studies published until April 2020.MethodResearchers analysed the articles. Bias risk was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.ResultsIn total, 27 studies were included and four themes identified. Students participated in multiple simulation sessions, over weeks to years, which included 1–4 scenarios in various nursing contexts. Simulations were used to prepare for, or partly replace, students’ clinical practice. Learning was described in terms of knowledge, competence and confidence.ConclusionMultiple scenario‐based simulation is a positive intervention that can be implemented in various courses during every academic year to promote nursing students’ learning. Further longitudinal research is required, including randomized studies, with transparency regarding study design and instruments.
Relationships among parenting stress, health‐promoting behaviors, and health‐related quality of life in Korean mothers of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Lee Meen Hye , Matthews Alicia K. , Park Chang Gi , Vincent Catherine , Hsieh Kelly , Savage Teresa A. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractHealth‐promoting behaviors have been shown to enhance the quality of life across diverse populations. In this study, we examined the indirect effects of several health‐promoting behaviors on the relationship between parenting stress and health‐related quality of life in mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). A convenience sample of Korean mothers (N = 180) of children aged 10 months to 12 years with CP was recruited from clinical and school settings. Health‐promoting behaviors were measured using the health‐promoting lifestyle profile II, which is comprised of six subscales: health responsibility, physical activity, nutrition, spiritual growth, interpersonal relations, and stress management. Multiple mediation analyses were conducted to examine the mediating role of these behavioral categories. Spiritual growth (β = .56, p < .05) had an indirect effect on the relationship between parenting stress and physical health‐related quality of life while spiritual growth (β = −1.00, p < .01) and stress management (β = −.80, p < .05) were found to mediate the association between parenting stress and mental health‐related quality of life. The findings of multiple mediation analyses provide evidence of the influence of specific health‐promoting behaviors on health‐related quality of life, thereby informing the development of intervention programs for mothers of children with disabilities.
Spindle cell carcinoma arising in a skin graft of the tongue: A case report
Authors: Yagihara Kazuhiro , Ishii Junichi , Sumino Jun , Katsurano Miki , Yamamoto Gou , Ishikawa Ayataka 
Published: September 2020

AbstractSpindle cell carcinoma (SpCC) exhibits dual features of malignancy, with the histology of squamous cell carcinoma and sarcoma‐like proliferation of spindle cells. SpCC development in the oral region has rarely been reported. Skin grafts are frequently applied to defects following superficial cancer resection. We encountered an extremely rare case of SpCC that developed in the central part of a skin graft, which was applied after superficial tongue cancer resection. SpCC may develop on skin grafts and is not limited to the oral mucosa in the oral cavity. Therefore, long‐term observation should be done carefully because skin grafts change over time.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis with BRAF p.N486_P490del or MAP2K1 p.K57_G61del treated by the MEK inhibitor trametinib
Authors: Messinger Yoav H. , Bostrom Bruce C. , Olson Damon R. , Gossai Nathan P. , Miller Lane H. , Richards Michael K. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractActivating variants of the MAPK pathway have been found in some Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) lesions. Inhibition of the MAPK pathway with trametinib (MEK inhibitor) has been shown to induce responses in LCH patients. Two adolescent males with LCH driven by BRAF p.N486_P490del have received trametinib for >1 year with no reactivation in one and partial response in another (including stable lung disease). A third male with neonatal LCH and MAP2K1p.K57_G61del had a complete response to trametinib with no active disease after 22 months. All patients continue on trametinib monotherapy with tolerable skin and creatine phosphokinase toxicity.
Analytical approach to study the vibration of delaminated multi‐scale composite cylindrical shells
Authors: Baharali Ali Akbar , Yazdi Ali Amin 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIn this study, the effect of carbon nano‐tubes (CNTs) and fiber carbons on vibration frequency of delaminated anti‐symmetric cross‐ply cylindrical shells is investigated. In this case, (CNTs) are added into polymer matrix of industrial composite. The mixture of rule and Halpin‐Tsai relation are used to obtain the effective materials of reinforced delaminated multi‐scale composite cylindrical shell. Based on Galerkine's method an approximate‐analytical solution is presented to predict the frequency vibration of delaminated multi‐scale composite shells. The results are used to assess the effect of various parameters including CNTs weight percentage, geometric parameters, delamination length and position across circumferential and thickness direction on frequency ratio for CNTs reinforced anti‐symmetric cross‐ply delaminated composite cylindrical shells.
Extinction risk and threats to plants and fungi
Authors: Nic Lughadha Eimear , Bachman Steven P. , Leão Tarciso C. C. , Forest Félix , Halley John M. , Moat Justin , Acedo Carmen , Bacon Karen L. , Brewer Ryan F. A. , Gâteblé Gildas , Gonçalves Susana C. , Govaerts Rafaël , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Krisai‐Greilhuber Irmgard , de Lirio Elton J. , Moore Paloma G. P. , Negrão Raquel , Onana Jean Michel , Rajaovelona Landy R. , Razanajatovo Henintsoa , Reich Peter B. , Richards Sophie L. , Rivers Malin C. , Cooper Amanda , Iganci João , Lewis Gwilym P. , Smidt Eric C. , Antonelli Alexandre , Mueller Gregory M. , Walker Barnaby E. 
Published: September 2020

Societal Impact StatementThere is increasing awareness that plants and fungi, as natural solutions, can play an important role in tackling ongoing global environmental challenges. We illustrate how understanding current and projected threats to plants and fungi is necessary to manage and mitigate risks, while building awareness of gaps and bias in current assessment coverage is essential to adequately prioritize conservation efforts. We highlight the state of the art in conservation science and point to current methods of assessment and future studies needed to mitigate species extinction.SummaryPlant and fungal biodiversity underpin life on earth and merit careful stewardship in an increasingly uncertain environment. However, gaps and biases in documented extinction risks to plant and fungal species impede effective management. Formal extinction risk assessments help avoid extinctions, through engagement, financial, or legal mechanisms, but most plant and fungal species lack assessments. Available global assessments cover c. 30% of plant species (ThreatSearch). Red List coverage overrepresents woody perennials and useful plants, but underrepresents single‐country endemics. Fungal assessments overrepresent well‐known species and are too few to infer global status or trends. Proportions of assessed vascular plant species considered threatened vary between global assessment datasets: 37% (ThreatSearch), and 44% (International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species). Our predictions, correcting for several quantifiable biases, suggest that 39% of all vascular plant species are threatened with extinction. However, other biases remain unquantified, and may affect our estimate. Preliminary trend data show plants moving toward extinction. Quantitative estimates based on plant extinction risk assessments may understate likely biodiversity loss: they do not fully capture the impacts of climate change, slow‐acting threats, or clustering of extinction risk, which could amplify loss of evolutionary potential. The importance of extinction risk estimation to support existing and emerging conservation initiatives is likely to grow as threats to biodiversity intensify. This necessitates urgent and strategic expansion of efforts toward comprehensive and ongoing assessment of plant and fungal extinction risk.
Fire safety is the key to ammonium nitrate explosion safety
Authors: Babrauskas Vytenis 
Published: September 2020

AbstractA strategy is formulated on how ammonium nitrate safety may be improved with regards to explosions. It is shown that, for ammonium nitrate in storage or in transport (as distinguished from manufacturing activities), there has been only one cause of explosions—uncontrolled fire. It is also identified that, given an uncontrolled fire impinging on a stock of ammonium nitrate, there is a 30% probability of explosion and a 15% probability of loss of life. These facts then clearly indicate that eliminating the potential for uncontrolled fires will eliminate the potential for explosion of ammonium nitrate in storage or in transport. It is shown that precluding the potential for fires is not difficult, given appropriate building construction and operating procedures. Finally, some additional safety factors are identified, as are safety factors which have been proposed, but are not technically sound.
Host plant use of Helicoverpa spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Brazilian agricultural landscape
Authors: Dourado Patrick M , Pantoja‐Gomez Laura M , Horikoshi Renato J , Carvalho Renato A , Omoto Celso , Corrêa Alberto S , Kim Jae H , Martinelli Samuel , Head Graham P 
Published: September 2020

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe Old‐World bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), was recently documented attacking cotton and soybean plants in Brazil; however, restricted basic knowledge on host plant interactions and landscape use in Brazil have limited the effectiveness of control measures. In this study, we evaluated the suitability of different crops commonly cultivated in Brazil as hosts for H. armigera and H. zea, and examined their contribution to the establishment and size of H. armigera and H. zea field populations. We also estimated the proportions of H. armigera and H. zea moths that used cotton, noncotton C3 plants, and C4 plants as hosts in four regions in Brazil through the length of the cropping season.RESULTSViability of H. armigera larvae was highest on cotton (46.1%), followed by millet (39.5%), sorghum (31.2%), soybean (24.2%), and maize (21.1%). Noncotton C3 hosts served as the major source of H. armigera moths in all regions evaluated, and C4 hosts were a source of H. armigera mainly in regions where winter maize is typically cultivated. H. armigera moths that used cotton plants as natal hosts were observed during the reproductive stage of the crop mainly in the state of Bahia. Only C4 host plants were a consistent source of H. zea moths, primarily when maize was in the reproductive stage. H. armigera individuals were the main species infesting cotton and soybean fields while H. zea individuals were the main species infesting maize ears.CONCLUSIONSRegional differences in the host use and population dynamics of H. armigera among the regions evaluated may be attributed to variation in alternative host utilization (crops, noncrops, and weeds) and the possible occurrence of facultative diapause and or migration.
Insight into incident photon to current conversion efficiency in chlorophylls
Authors: Sabagh Samira , Izadyar Mohammad , Arkan Foroogh 
Published: September 2020

AbstractPhotovoltaic properties of the natural dyes of chlorophylls consist ofChl a,Chl b,Chl c2,Chl d,Phe a,Phe y, andMg‐Phe aand have been studied in the gas phases and water. The extension of the π‐conjugated system, the substitution of the central Mg2+, and proper functional groups in the chlorophyll structures can amplify the charge transfer and photovoltaic performance.Chl ashows more favorable dynamics of charge transfer than the other studied chlorophylls.Chl d,Phe a,Phe y, andMg‐Phe ahave a greater rate of exciton dissociation in comparison withChl a,Chl b, andChl c2originating from a lower electronic chemical hardness, a lower exciton binding energy, and a bigger electron‐hole radius. As a result, better efficiencies of light harvesting and energy conversion of the chlorophylls mainly appear in the Soret band. The light‐harvesting efficiency values of the chlorophylls in water show that solvent favorably affects the ability of light harvesting of the photosensitizers. Finally, based on the energy conversion efficiency,Chl a,Phe a, andMg‐Phe aare proposed as the best candidates for use in the dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Cyclopentene Synthesis by a Catalytic [3+2] Annulation of Donor‐Acceptor Cyclopropanes with Polarized Alkenes
Authors: Xu Cong , Wei Na , Zhu Dongsheng , Wang Mang 
Published: September 2020

Abstract[3+2] Annulation of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes with alkynes represents an efficient route to cyclopentenes. Here, we describe a new cyclopentene synthesis via Lewis acid‐catalyzed ring‐opening addition and intramolecular SNV reaction of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes with alkenes. The reaction is carried out under the catalysis of Sc(OTf)3 by using polarized alkenes, namely α‐oxo ketene dithioacetals, as 2 C partners.
Microstructure and Hydrogen Storage Properties of Melt‐Spun Mg91Y3Al6 Alloy
Authors: Lei Jingjing , Zhang Qingan 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe microstructure and hydrogen absorption‐desorption characteristics of melt‐spun Mg91Y3Al6 alloy are investigated in this paper. In the melt‐spun alloy, an over‐stoichiometric Laves phase Y(Al,Mg)2.4 is present along the grain boundaries of matrix phase Mg(Al) in form of network and Y5Mg24 phase is embedded in the matrix. During the ball‐milling process under hydrogen atmosphere, hydrogen‐induced decompositions of Y(Al,Mg)2.4 into YAl2+MgH2+YH3 and Y5Mg24 into MgH2+YH3 occur simultaneously. We observe improvements of hydrogen desorption kinetics and cycle durability of MgH2, likely due to the presence of in situ formed YAl2 and YH3, which may inhibit crystallite growth, provide catalytic effect and suppress surface oxidation.
Clinoptilolite augmented electrocoagulation process for the reduction of high‐strength ammonia and color from stabilized landfill leachate
Authors: Hamid Mohd Azhar Abd , Aziz Hamidi Abdul , Yusoff Mohd Suffian , Rezan Sheikh Abdul 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe high‐strength leachate produced from sanitary landfill is a serious issue around the world as it poses adverse effects on aquatic life and human health. Physio‐chemical technology is one of the promising options as the leachate normally presents in stabilized form and not fully amendable by biological treatment. In this research, the effectiveness of natural zeolite (clinoptilolite) augmented electrocoagulation process (hybrid system) for removing high‐strength ammonia (3,442 mg/L) and color (8,427 Pt‐Co) from naturally saline (15 ppt) local landfill leachate was investigated. A batch mode laboratory‐scale reactor with parallel‐monopolar aluminum electrodes attached to a direct current (DC) electric power was used as an electrocoagulation reactor for performance enhancement purpose. Optimum operational conditions of 146 g/L zeolite dosage, 600 A/m2 current density, 60 min treatment time, 200 rpm stirring speed, 35 min settling duration, and pH 9 were recorded with up to 70% and 88% removals of ammonia and color, respectively. The estimated overall operational cost was 26.22 $/m3. The biodegradability of the leachate had improved from 0.05 to 0.27 in all post‐treatment processes. The findings revealed the ability of the hybrid process as a viable option in eliminating concentrated ammonia and color in natural saline landfill leachate.Practitioner points

Clinoptilolite was augmented on the electrocoagulation process in saline and stabilized landfill leachate (15 ppt).

The high strength NH3‐N (3,442 mg/L) and color (8,427 Pt‐Co) were 70% and 88% removed, respectively.

The optimum conditions occurred at 140 g/L zeolite, 60 mA/cm2 current density, 60 min, and final pH of 8.20.

The biodegradability of the leachate improved from 0.05 to 0.27 after the treatment.

This hybrid treatment was simple, faster, and did not require auxiliary electrolyte.