bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of infrastructure resilience
Authors: Xu Wenping , Cong Jinting , Proverbs David G. 
Published: July 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to undertake an evaluation of the resilient capacity of the infrastructure systems in the city of Wuhan. This evaluation focuses on the ability of the infrastructure to cope with extreme weather from multiple dimensions and to propose effective interventions against such risks.Design/methodology/approachThis research draws on a review and synthesis of the theory of resilience and adopts the literature induction method to build an evaluation index for five urban systems, namely: roads; water supply and drainage; energy and power; urban disaster reduction; and communications. Index data from the period of 1990–2019 are combined with the views of experts from Wuhan and analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) to calculate the weightings of the five urban systems. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is then used to investigate the resilient capacity of these five urban infrastructure systems in the city.FindingsGenerally, the results show that the resilience of the infrastructure systems in Wuhan are at a high level. Based on the results, the communications and roads systems are found to have higher levels of resilience, while the disaster mitigation system is found to have a relatively low level of resilience. Recommendations are suggested to help improve resilience and prioritize investments in the development of the city's infrastructure systems.Research limitations/implicationsThe development of these specific indicators and quantitative requirements have not been studied in detail, so a more comprehensive, systematic evaluation of quantitative indicators and methods of urban infrastructure resilience is still required. In addition, the research on the resilience of urban infrastructure under extreme weather is still in its infancy, and it is essential to further increase the quantitative assessment of the resilience of urban infrastructure under construction. This will also be indispensable information in the subsequent implementation of a resilient planning process.Originality/valueThis research builds a rigorous and reliable evaluation model that avoids any subjective bias in the results and represents a new approach to evaluate the resilience of the infrastructure systems in the city of Wuhan, which could be applied to other cities.
Exaggerated sexually selected weapons maintained with disproportionately low metabolic costs in a single species with extreme size variation
Authors: Somjee Ummat , Powell Erin C. , Hickey Anthony J. , Harrison Jon F. , Painting Christina J. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Larger individuals typically have lower mass‐specific metabolic rates compared to small ones (hypometric scaling). This trend is most evident across species where body size differences can be extreme. Yet, within‐species studies are critical to decipher the morphological and physiological mechanisms responsible. However, in most species, the relatively small range in body and appendage size of the same life stage often precludes such intraspecific comparisons.

Sexually selected weapons are among the most exaggerated traits in nature; these traits can account for a large portion of body mass and contribute to whole‐body energetic maintenance costs. Often larger individuals possess disproportionally larger weapons relative to their body size, yet little is known about how large individuals meet the predicted increased energetic demands of maintaining disproportionately large weapons.

New Zealand giraffe weevils, Lasiorhynchus barbicornis (Coleoptera: Brentidae) exhibit an extreme 30‐fold range in male body mass as well as hypermetric scaling of sexually selected rostra used as weapons in male–male competition. We compare intra‐ and interspecific resting metabolic rates by compiling measurements across 26 arthropod species whose size ranges overlap with L. barbicornis. The scaling of metabolic rate across this pooled interspecific sample was not significantly different from the intraspecific scaling of metabolic rate we found in L. barbicornis (slope of log–log relationship with body mass = 0.67).

Male and female L. barbicornis had a similar scaling of metabolic rate with body size, despite differing substantially in the scaling of rostra, legs and antennae. However, large structures that scaled with positive allometry in males (rostra and legs) were increasingly composed of cuticle in larger individuals. The largest males invest ~60% less metabolically active tissue into rostra (weapons) compared to the smallest males.

Our findings reveal hypometric scaling relationships of inter‐ and intraspecific metabolic rates across a shared size range in a diverse group of arthropods. Our intraspecific study uncovers a tremendous difference in weapon architecture as individuals scale up in size; we find that large males bear disproportionally larger weapons at a lower relative metabolic cost. This cost‐saving mechanism may play a key role in shaping the hypermetric scaling of sexually selected traits.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
A rapid and nondestructive approach for forensic identification of cigarette inner liner papers using shift‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Zhang Jin , Jiang Hong , Duan Bin , Liu Feng 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn forensic science, cigarettes are considered as crucial physical evidence because it helps to establish the connection between the criminal and the crime scene. In the present study, SERDS has been used for the examination of 25 different brands or series of cigarette inner liner paper. The discrimination power is calculated by using three methods, i.e., visual discrimination of the spectra, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). They are 100.00%, 92.42% and 100.00%, respectively. Cigarette inner liner paper samples were divided into four categories based on HCA and assignment of Raman special peaks: (1) talcum powder, (2) zinc oxide, (3) talcum powder and zinc oxide and (4) zinc oxide and barium sulfate. The PCA‐FDA model was constructed for identifying the unknown samples, it delivered 100.00% calibration accuracy and validation accuracy. The results suggest that SERDS combined with the chemometric methods is a rapid, nondestructive and accurate method for the differentiation of cigarette inner liner papers.
Incorporating climate velocity into the design of climate‐smart networks of marine protected areas
Authors: Arafeh‐Dalmau Nur , Brito‐Morales Isaac , Schoeman David S. , Possingham Hugh P. , Klein Carissa J. , Richardson Anthony J. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Climate change is redistributing terrestrial and marine biodiversity and altering fundamental ecological interactions. To conserve biodiversity and promote its long‐term persistence, protected areas should account for the ecological implications of species’ redistribution. Data paucity across many systems means that achieving this goal requires generic metrics that act as proxies for likely responses of multiple taxa to climate change. Climate velocity is one such metric, representing the potential speed and direction of species’ range shifts.

Here, we explore three approaches for incorporating climate velocity into the design of marine protected areas and demonstrate their application in the Mediterranean Sea. Our methods are designed to meet the climate‐smart adaptation strategy of protecting climate refugia by selecting slow‐moving climate velocity areas.

For our case study, we found that incorporating climate velocity as a cost measure in Marxan best selects slower moving areas, which are robust indicators of climate refugia. However, this approach is unable to accommodate socio‐economic cost data and is thus impractical. Incorporating climate velocity as a boundary or as a feature selects slower moving areas with a lower socio‐economic cost. We recommend incorporating velocity as a boundary, where possible because it is a more flexible approach. The boundary approach considers the climate velocity of all planning units, rather than being limited to a subjective classification of ‘slow‐moving’ planning units when treated as a feature. However, further assessment is required. For different planning scales and for grid structures other than squares, the relative performance of incorporating climate velocity as a boundary or as a feature might vary among case studies.

This work presents simple and practical ways of including climate velocity in conservation plans to achieve the key climate‐smart objective of protecting climate refugia, thereby enhancing ecological resilience. Our methods are widely applicable, encouraging researchers and practitioners to advance the field and deliver networks of climate‐smart protected areas by 2030.
Measuring temporal change in alpha diversity: A framework integrating taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional diversity and the iNEXT.3D standardization
Authors: Chao Anne , Henderson Peter A. , Chiu Chun‐Huo , Moyes Faye , Hu Kai‐Hsiang , Dornelas Maria , Magurran Anne E. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Biodiversity is a multifaceted concept covering different levels of organization from genes to ecosystems. Biodiversity has at least three dimensions: (a) Taxonomic diversity (TD): a measure that is sensitive to the number and abundances of species. (b) Phylogenetic diversity (PD): a measure that incorporates not only species abundances but also species evolutionary histories. (c) Functional diversity (FD): a measure that considers not only species abundances but also species' traits.

We integrate the three dimensions of diversity under a unified framework of Hill numbers and their generalizations. Our TD quantifies the effective number of equally abundant species, PD quantifies the effective total branch length, mean‐PD (PD divided by tree depth) quantifies the effective number of equally divergent lineages, and FD quantifies the effective number of equally distinct virtual functional groups (or functional ‘species’). Thus, TD, mean‐PD and FD are all in the same units of species/lineage equivalents and can be meaningfully compared.

Like species richness, empirical TD, PD and FD based on sampling data depend on sampling effort and sample completeness. For TD (Hill numbers), the iNEXT (interpolation and extrapolation) standardization was developed for standardizing sample size or sample completeness (as measured by sample coverage, the fraction of individuals that belong to the observed species) to make objective comparisons across studies. This paper extends the iNEXT method to the iNEXT.3D standardization to encompass all three dimensions of diversity via sample size‐ and sample coverage‐based rarefaction and extrapolation under the unified framework. The asymptotic diversity estimates (i.e. sample size tends to infinity and sample coverage tends to unity) are also derived. In addition to individual‐based abundance data, the proposed iNEXT.3D standardization is adapted to deal with incidence‐based occurrence data.

We apply the integrative framework and the proposed iNEXT.3D standardization to measure temporal alpha‐diversity changes for estuarine fish assemblage data spanning four decades. The influence of environmental drivers on diversity change are also assessed. Our analysis informs a mechanistic interpretation of biodiversity change in the three dimensions of diversity. The accompanying freeware, iNEXT.3D, developed during this project, facilitates all computation and graphics.
Opportunistic timing of management earnings forecasts during the COVID‐19 crisis in China
Authors: Chen Hanwen , Liu Siyi , Liu Xin , Wang Jiani 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis study assumes that the severity of local COVID‐19 spread can capture the short‐run fluctuation of macro‐level uncertainty in business environments. Given capital‐market pressure and incentives to obtain favourable considerations from the government and lenders, we hypothesise that COVID‐19‐induced uncertainty can lead managers to release (delay) preexisting firm‐specific bad (good) news. Our baseline results show that firms are more likely to disclose unfavourable (favourable) 2019 forecasts in days when recent COVID‐19 cases in headquarter provinces increase (decrease). Results in further analyses provide evidence on the aforementioned reporting incentives by showing that the opportunistic timing behaviour is more prominent in firms with higher managerial ownership, non‐state ownership, and in firms under financial distress. In addition, we uncover the role of local marketisation level and medical resources in mitigating the opportunistic timing behaviour. Finally, the analysis of market reactions shows that the manipulation of disclosure dates can influence the market price in a favourable direction for firms. Overall, our paper presents a comprehensive picture of corporate opportunistic timing behaviour amid the COVID‐19 crisis.
Trading off hatching success and cost in the captive breeding of Whooping Cranes
Authors: Edwards H. A. , Converse S. J. , Swan K. D. , Moehrenschlager A. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractCaptive breeding is an increasingly used conservation strategy for species with a high risk of extinction in the wild, but managing a captive breeding programme can be challenging if there is a deficiency in knowledge about the species’ breeding biology. A knowledge gap can make it difficult to evaluate different management options. For avian species, egg hatching success is a key demographic parameter, and data‐logging egg technology can provide important information on optimal species‐specific incubation conditions, which can help inform captive breeding practises and identify efficient captive management options. In the context of a captive breeding programme for endangered Whooping Cranes Grus americana, we investigated associations between hatching success and incubation conditions, including environmental parameters (temperature, relative humidity and egg turning rate), and incubation type (artificial incubation; foster incubation by Sandhill Cranes, Grus canadensis; and Whooping Crane incubation). Finally, we considered both cost and breeding output in an analysis of incubation practises. We found that daily mean temperatures were negatively associated with hatching success, and that hatching success was highest with incubation under Sandhill Cranes. However, incubation by artificial incubators, rather than Sandhill Cranes, provided a trade‐off between cost and breeding output that is likely to be acceptable to many captive programme managers. We encourage other captive breeding programmes to use innovations that help to increase potential release numbers for conservation translocations by considering biological and financial constraints.
A baseline patch test series for New Zealand
Authors: Seine Adrian J , Baird Elizabeth Ann , Chan Lydia , Davis Anne , Greig Deborah , Judd Lissa Elaine , Mahon Caroline , Oakley Amanda , Rademaker Marius , Reiche Louise , Stanway Amy Donna , Cheng Harriet S 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundPatch testing is the gold standard diagnostic test for allergic contact dermatitis and needs to be relevant to the region and the population being tested. The aim of this study was to develop a specific New Zealand baseline series (NZBS).MethodWe performed a retrospective case note review of patients attending four regional patch test centres between 2008 and 2020. Demographic and diagnostic information was collected for each patient along with results of patch testing. Using the results of this review, a group of 11 dermatologists with an interest in contact dermatitis agreed on a core group of allergens for inclusion in an NZBS, based on the frequency of positive reactions and allergens of interest. The remaining potential allergens were ranked by each dermatologist using an online questionnaire, with inclusion in the final NZBS by consensus.ResultsResults from 2402 patients (67% female, mean age 44 years) from Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North and Christchurch were collated. The 10 most frequent positive (relevant and non‐relevant) allergens were nickel sulfate (22.0%), fragrance mix I (8.6%), cobalt chloride (7.3%), Myroxylon pereirae (5.6%), colophonium (5.1%), p‐phenylenediamine (4.9%), methylisothiazolinone/methylchloroisothiazolinone (4.1%), fragrance mix II (3.9%), potassium dichromate (3.5%) and methylisothiazolinone (3.4%). Based on these results, a core series of 30 allergens was developed, with an additional 30 allergens added to form the extended series (total 60 allergens).ConclusionThe baseline series of patch test allergens for routine use in New Zealand (NZBS) is based on national patch test data and expert consensus.
Cardiac surgery simulation: a low‐cost feasible option in an Australasian setting
Authors: Sharma Varun J , Barton Calum , Page Sarah , Ganesh Jegatheesan Saravana , Patel Nishith , Pirone Francesco , Lin Zaw , Kejriwal Nand K. , El Gamel Adam , McCormack David J , Meikle Felicity 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundSimulation training is a useful adjunct to surgical training and education (SET) in Cardiothoracic Surgery yet training opportunities outside the Royal Australasian College of Surgery or industry‐sponsored workshops are rare due to high cost and limited training faculty, time, assessment tools or structured curricula. We describe our experience in establishing a low‐cost cardiac simulation programme.MethodsWe created low‐cost models using hospital facilities, hardware stores, abattoirs and donations from industry. Three workshops were conducted on coronary anastomoses, aortic and mitral valve replacement.ResultsWhole porcine hearts were sourced from local farms. Industry donations of obsolete stock were used for suture and valve material—stations constructed using ironing‐board, 2‐L buckets and kebab‐skewers. Suture ring holders were fashioned from recycled cardboard or donated. All participants were asked to complete pre and post simulation self‐assessment forms. Across three workshops, 45 participants (57.8% female) with a median age 27 (interquartile range 24–31) attended. Training level consisted of nurses (8, 17.8%), medical students (17, 37.8%), residents/house officers (6, 13.3%) and registrars (14, 31.1%). There were improvements in knowledge of anatomy (mean difference 18%; 95% confidence interval 12%–24%), imaging (16%; 10%–22%) and procedural components (34%; 28%–42%); and practical ability to describe steps (30%; 24%–38%), partially (32%; 26%–38%) or fully complete (32%; 28%–38%) the procedure.ConclusionsSimulation‐based training in cardiac surgery is feasible in a hospital setting with low overhead costs. It can benefit participants at all training levels and has the potential to be implemented in training hospitals as an adjunct to the SET programme.
Investigating the composition and application of an ancient multipurpose material discovered on the Qin Terracotta Army statues
Authors: Ge Ruochen , Yang Lu , Shen Maosheng , Sun Wenyan 
Published: July 2021

AbstractFor the first time, the composition and application of a multipurpose material, which is widely used on the Qin Terracotta Army statues, was investigated as an important material during the statues' production. X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction spectrometry, polarizing microscopy and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry were used in this study. The analyses revealed that this material consists of a protein binder containing animal glue and egg and inorganic fillers of ground pottery grains. The material is multifunctional and can be mainly used for bonding and flattening statues, while adding inorganic fillers into organic materials provides good strength and ageing resistance. This study will enhance the current understanding of the production of the Terracotta Army and provide a new perspective for conservation science from traditional crafts.
Occupational contact dermatitis: Return to work using a multidisciplinary clinic model
Authors: Holness D. Linn , Gomez Pilar , Kudla Irena , Skotnicki Sandy , DeKoven Joel G. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundOccupational contact dermatitis often results in work disruption. Return‐to‐work (RTW) is an important outcome.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine RTW outcomes and factors associated with such outcomes using a multidisciplinary clinic model.MethodsChart abstraction was performed for 194 workers who received RTW assistance over a 6‐year period. Elements abstracted included demographic and diagnostic information and information about the RTW program including principles, program components, barriers, and facilitators.ResultsOf the 902 workers seen for dermatologic assessment, 194 received RTW assistance. At initial assessment, 37% were not working because of their skin disease, and at follow‐up, 7% were not working because of their skin disease. The RTW plan components included a graduated or trial of RTW, specific recommendations for avoiding exposure, personal protective equipment, skin management, and ongoing skin monitoring. Principles associated with successful RTW included good communication and the availability of modified work and a worker adherence to the plan. Barriers included lack of modified work, unresponsive employers, and ongoing skin problems.ConclusionsSpecific approaches are important to identify if RTW is to be successful for workers with occupational contact dermatitis.
Plasma neurofilament light chain concentrations as a biomarker of clinical and radiologic outcomes in relapsing multiple sclerosis: Post hoc analysis of Phase 3 ozanimod trials
Authors: Harris Sarah , Comi Giancarlo , Cree Bruce A. C. , Arnold Douglas L. , Steinman Lawrence , Sheffield James K. , Southworth Harry , Kappos Ludwig , Cohen Jeffrey A. ,   the Ozanimod Study Investigators
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackground and purposeWe investigated plasma neurofilament light chain concentration (pNfL) as a biomarker for neuroaxonal damage and disease activity using data from Phase 3 trials of ozanimod in relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS).MethodspNfL was measured before and after ozanimod 0.46 mg or 0.92 mg daily or interferon β‐1a 30 µg weekly in the randomized, double‐blind SUNBEAM and RADIANCE trials. In these post hoc analyses, we investigated relationships between pNfL (at baseline and median percentage change from baseline to Month 12 [SUNBEAM] or 24 [RADIANCE]) and clinical and magnetic resonance imaging outcomes.ResultsMedian (Q1, Q3) baseline pNfL, available in 1244 of 1346 SUNBEAM participants, was 14.70 (10.16, 23.26) pg/ml and in 1109 of 1313 RADIANCE participants was 13.35 (9.42, 20.41) pg/ml. Baseline gadolinium‐enhancing (GdE) and T2 lesion counts increased and brain volume decreased with increasing baseline pNfL. Baseline pNfL was higher in those with versus without on‐treatment relapse. Median percentage reduction in pNfL at 12 months in SUNBEAM (n = 1238) and 24 months in RADIANCE (n = 1088) was greater for ozanimod (20%–27%) than interferon β‐1a (13%–16%; p < 0.01). Greater pNfL reduction was associated with fewer GdE lesions, fewer new/enlarging T2 lesions per scan, less loss of brain volume, lower annualized relapse rate (ARR), and no evidence of disease activity. The following models predicted ARR: 0.5111 + 0.0116 × ΔNfL at 12 months (SUNBEAM) and 0.4079 + 0.0088 × ΔNfL at 24 months (RADIANCE).ConclusionspNfL was associated with clinical and radiologic measures of disease and treatment effects in RMS, supporting its use as a biomarker.