1,617 results
Search Results
152. Psychological implications of the COVID-19 pandemic around the world : Introduction to the special issue
- Abstract
Although psychological researchers have long studied the implications of major crises, the outbreak and spread of the COVID-19 pandemic have confronted the global community of psychologists and psychological researchers with new challenges. This special issue contributes to the growing empirical literature on the immediate psychological implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. We present and discuss diverse work from authors that followed our call for papers in May 2020, shortly after the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. The studies focus on the early phases of the pandemic by addressing (a) implications of the pandemic for psychological well-being and mental health, (b) psychological effects of lockdown scenarios as well as (c) individual compliance with COVID-19 prevention and intervention measures. We conclude by highlighting the need for new research efforts, with a special focus on low- and middle-income regions, international research collaborations and cross-cultural research designs.
- Published
- 2021
153. Prevention and management of respiratory disease in young people with cerebral palsy: consensus statement
- Abstract
Respiratory illness is the leading cause of mortality in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Although risk factors for developing chronic respiratory illness have been identified, comprehensive clinical care recommendations for the prevention and management of respiratory illness do not currently exist. We invited over 200 clinicians and researchers from multiple disciplines with expertise in the management of respiratory illness in children with CP to develop care recommendations using a modified Delphi method on the basis of the RAND Corporation–University of California Los Angeles Appropriateness Method. These recommendations are intended for use by the wide range of practitioners who care for individuals living with CP. They provide a framework for recognizing multifactorial primary and secondary potentially modifiable risk factors and for providing coordinated multidisciplinary care. We describe the methods used to generate the consensus recommendations, and the overall perspective on assessment, prevention, and treatment of respiratory illness in children with CP. What this paper adds: The first consensus statement for preventing and managing respiratory disease in cerebral palsy (CP). Risk factors for respiratory disease in CP should be identified early. Individuals with CP at risk of respiratory disease require regular assessment of risk factors. Effective partnerships between multidisciplinary teams, individuals with CP, and families are essential. Treatment of respiratory disease in individuals with CP must be proactive.
- Published
- 2021
154. The Camp Nou Stadium as a testbed for city physiology: a modular framework for urban digital twins
- Abstract
In this paper, the Camp Nou stadium is used as a testbed for City Physiology, a theoretical framework for urban digital twins. With this case study, the modularity and adaptability of the framework, originally intended for city-scale simulations, are tested on a large facility venue. As a proof of concept, several statistical techniques and an agent-based simulation platform are coupled to simulate a crowd in the stadium, and a process of four steps is followed to build the case study. Both the conceptual (interdomain) and technical (domain specific) layers of the digital twin are defined and connected in a nonlinear process so that they represent the complexity of the object to be simulated. &e result obtained is a strategy to build a digital twin from the domain point of view, paving the way for more complex, more ambitious simulators, This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under the IoTwins Project (Grant agreement no. 857191). I. Meta was partially funded by the Agencia Estatal de Investigación-Ministerio de Ciencia Innovación (AEI MICINN) and the European Social Fund (ESF) under the FPI program (scholarship no. PRE2019-090239)., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)
- Published
- 2021
155. Exploiting Generative Design for 3D Printing of Bacterial Biofilm Resistant Composite Devices
- Abstract
As the understanding of disease grows, so does the opportunity for personalization of therapies targeted to the needs of the individual. To bring about a step change in the personalization of medical devices it is shown that multi-material inkjet-based 3D printing can meet this demand by combining functional materials, voxelated manufacturing, and algorithmic design. In this paper composite structures designed with both controlled deformation and reduced biofilm formation are manufactured using two formulations that are deposited selectively and separately. The bacterial biofilm coverage of the resulting composites is reduced by up to 75% compared to commonly used silicone rubbers, without the need for incorporating bioactives. Meanwhile, the composites can be tuned to meet user defined mechanical performance with ±10% deviation. Device manufacture is coupled to finite element modelling and a genetic algorithm that takes the user-specified mechanical deformation and computes the distribution of materials needed to meet this under given load constraints through a generative design process. Manufactured products are assessed against the mechanical and bacterial cell-instructive specifications and illustrate how multifunctional personalization can be achieved using generative design driven multi-material inkjet based 3D printing.
- Published
- 2021
156. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting – through the Chinese ‘lenses’
- Abstract
This engagement-based paper in understanding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting by enterprises is aimed at exploring the complexity and emerging phenomenon within the Chinese context. As one of the few initiatives to explore senior managers’ perceptions toward ESG in China grounded empirically in utilizing qualitative methodology, this study seeks to bridge the gap of existing ESG research, which is dominated by quantitative research and studies in developed ‘western’ countries. It adds to the sparse literature pertaining to rich cultural ‘emic’ data in the field. In addressing this, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with senior managers from 21 companies in various industries in China. An inquiry paradigm utilising constructivist ontology and interpretivist epistemology was required in understanding the normative assumptions underpinning ESG reporting in China through the lenses of the participants. This paper is part of a larger field study on ESG in China. This paper extends the utilisation of a variety of social system-based theoretical concepts such as stakeholder theory, legitimacy theory and institutional theory that have been approached by various accounting researchers. This study provides emerging themes that appear to highlight five main motivating drivers and six major barriers that impede ESG reporting in China as perceived by the senior managers. What sets it apart contextually from most research is the salient low-key Chinese culture that emerged as a barrier to implementation of ESG reporting. This study is significant to ESG practice in China with both theoretical and practical implications. It contributes to the body of knowledge in the use of systems-oriented theories. Its findings are helpful in refining recommendations to aid regulators and companies in identifying strategies likely to yield improved ESG reporting for economies with similar context to China.
- Published
- 2016
157. Geographies of heteroactivism: Resisting sexual rights in the reconstitution of Irish nationhood
- Abstract
Legislative and cultural changes have produced significant shifts in sexual and gender rights. Although this has been extensively studied in relation to those who have “won” and in relation to the normalisations that these changes create, there is little scholarship on the emergence of new resistances to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans equalities. We employ the term heteroactivism to name the ways that resistances to sexual and gender rights have moved from vilifying “the homosexual,” towards more subtle and nuanced resistances in places with sexual and gender equalities legislation. Geography is key because legislation and its enactment varies spatially, and national legislations and imaginings recreate distinctive, place-based heteroactivism. Paying attention to the ideologies of those who opposed same-sex marriage in Ireland’s 2015 referendum, this paper explores how the boundaries of Irishness were central to heteroactivist campaigns, drawing on specific invocations of relatedness between a female child and her mother, the quintessential Irish Mammy. Using a close reading of the textual and visual elements of a “Vote No” poster, the paper elucidates the presences and silences of new forms of resistances that seek to recuperate what was once not only “common sense” heterosexuality, but also seen as the essence of Irishness. In doing so, the paper extends understandings of sexuality–gender–nation–state nexus by critically interrogating the ideologies of those who contest progressive state sexual and gender legislation.
- Published
- 2018
158. All of work? All of life? Reconceptualising work-life balance for the 21st century
- Abstract
This paper argues that the study of work-life balance to date has, in the main, adopted a restricted conception of both “work” and “life”, which does not take account of recent developments in life worlds, working arrangements and employment relationships. “Life” has hitherto been viewed as largely comprising caring activities for dependent children, whereas “work” has been premised largely on a traditional model of work, characterised by full-time, permanent employment with one employer and a conventional understanding of what work involves. This means that extant research and theory only provides a partial view of the work-life needs and experiences of the workforce. In the paper, we propose extending conceptions of both work and life to incorporate different life worlds and social groups and different working arrangements and employment relationships.
- Published
- 2018
159. Shrinkage of food materials during drying: Current status and challenges
- Abstract
The structural heterogeneities of fruits and vegetables intensify the complexity to comprehend the interrelated physicochemical changes that occur during drying. Shrinkage of food materials during drying is a common physical phenomenon which affects the textural quality and taste of the dried product. The shrinkage of food material depends on many factors including material characteristics, microstructure, mechanical properties, and process conditions. Understanding the effect of these influencing factors on deformation of fruits and vegetables during drying is crucial to obtain better‐quality product. The majority of the previous studies regarding shrinkage are either experimental or empirical; however, such studies cannot provide a realistic understanding of the physical phenomena behind the material shrinkage. In contrast, theoretical modeling can provide better insights into the shrinkage that accompanies simultaneous heat and mass transfer during drying. However, limited studies have been conducted on the theoretical modeling of shrinkage of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to critically review the existing theoretical shrinkage models and present a framework for a theoretical model for the shrinkage mechanism. This paper also describes the effect of different drying conditions on material shrinkage. Discussions on how the diverse characteristics of fruits and vegetables affect shrinkage propagation is presented. Moreover, a comprehensive review of formulation techniques of shrinking models and their results are also presented. Finally, the challenges in developing a physics‐based shrinkage model are discussed.
- Published
- 2018
160. This corrosion: A systematic review of the association between alternative subcultures and the risk of self-harm and suicide
- Abstract
Background Rates of self‐harm and suicide are increasing in young people. The literature suggests that individuals who identify with alternative subcultures (e.g., Goth) may be at a greater risk. Objective To explore the prevalence of self‐harm and suicide in alternative subcultures and the factors that might contribute to this increased risk. Method Using a systematic strategy, the databases PsycINFO, Scopus, MEDLINE and Web of Science, and the E‐Thesis online service (ETHOS) were searched for English language only papers, with no restrictions in terms of date of publication. Papers were selected that included data on the relationship between either alternative subculture identity (e.g., Goth) or preference for alternative music (e.g., Heavy Metal) and self‐harm or suicide. Ten quantitative papers were included: seven cross‐sectional, two longitudinal and one cross‐sectional state‐level comparison study. Two qualitative papers were also included. Studies were assessed by two reviewers for risk of bias. Results The findings indicated that individuals who associated with alternative subcultures were at a greater risk of self‐harm and suicide. Whilst qualitative papers identified potential mechanisms (e.g., exposure to self‐harm and the way self‐harm is presented or normalized), there remains limited support for these mechanisms. Conclusions More research is required to understand the association between self‐harm, suicide and alternative subculture affiliation, and the factors underlying it. Longitudinal studies and studies focusing on mechanism are particularly important.
- Published
- 2018
161. This corrosion: A systematic review of the association between alternative subcultures and the risk of self-harm and suicide
- Abstract
Background Rates of self‐harm and suicide are increasing in young people. The literature suggests that individuals who identify with alternative subcultures (e.g., Goth) may be at a greater risk. Objective To explore the prevalence of self‐harm and suicide in alternative subcultures and the factors that might contribute to this increased risk. Method Using a systematic strategy, the databases PsycINFO, Scopus, MEDLINE and Web of Science, and the E‐Thesis online service (ETHOS) were searched for English language only papers, with no restrictions in terms of date of publication. Papers were selected that included data on the relationship between either alternative subculture identity (e.g., Goth) or preference for alternative music (e.g., Heavy Metal) and self‐harm or suicide. Ten quantitative papers were included: seven cross‐sectional, two longitudinal and one cross‐sectional state‐level comparison study. Two qualitative papers were also included. Studies were assessed by two reviewers for risk of bias. Results The findings indicated that individuals who associated with alternative subcultures were at a greater risk of self‐harm and suicide. Whilst qualitative papers identified potential mechanisms (e.g., exposure to self‐harm and the way self‐harm is presented or normalized), there remains limited support for these mechanisms. Conclusions More research is required to understand the association between self‐harm, suicide and alternative subculture affiliation, and the factors underlying it. Longitudinal studies and studies focusing on mechanism are particularly important.
- Published
- 2018
162. Geographies of heteroactivism: Resisting sexual rights in the reconstitution of Irish nationhood
- Abstract
Legislative and cultural changes have produced significant shifts in sexual and gender rights. Although this has been extensively studied in relation to those who have “won” and in relation to the normalisations that these changes create, there is little scholarship on the emergence of new resistances to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans equalities. We employ the term heteroactivism to name the ways that resistances to sexual and gender rights have moved from vilifying “the homosexual,” towards more subtle and nuanced resistances in places with sexual and gender equalities legislation. Geography is key because legislation and its enactment varies spatially, and national legislations and imaginings recreate distinctive, place-based heteroactivism. Paying attention to the ideologies of those who opposed same-sex marriage in Ireland’s 2015 referendum, this paper explores how the boundaries of Irishness were central to heteroactivist campaigns, drawing on specific invocations of relatedness between a female child and her mother, the quintessential Irish Mammy. Using a close reading of the textual and visual elements of a “Vote No” poster, the paper elucidates the presences and silences of new forms of resistances that seek to recuperate what was once not only “common sense” heterosexuality, but also seen as the essence of Irishness. In doing so, the paper extends understandings of sexuality–gender–nation–state nexus by critically interrogating the ideologies of those who contest progressive state sexual and gender legislation.
- Published
- 2018
163. gauseR: Simple methods for fitting Lotka-Volterra models describing Gause's 'Struggle for Existence'
- Abstract
Point 1: The ecological models of Alfred J. Lotka and Vito Volterra have had an enormous impact on ecology over the past century. Some of the earliest—and clearest—experimental tests of these models were famously conducted by Georgy Gause in the 1930s. Although well known, the data from these experiments are not widely available and are often difficult to analyze using standard statistical and computational tools. Point 2: Here, we introduce the gauseR package, a collection of tools for fitting Lotka‐Volterra models to time series data of one or more species. The package includes several methods for parameter estimation and optimization, and includes 42 datasets from Gause's species interaction experiments and related work. Additionally, we include with this paper a short blog post discussing the historical importance of these data and models, and an R vignette with a walk‐through introducing the package methods. The package is available for download at github.com/adamtclark/gauseR. Point 3: To demonstrate the package, we apply it to several classic experimental studies from Gause, as well as two other well‐known datasets on multi‐trophic dynamics on Isle Royale, and in spatially structured mite populations. In almost all cases, models fit observations closely and fitted parameter values make ecological sense. Point 4: Taken together, we hope that the methods, data, and analyses that we present here provide a simple and user‐friendly way to interact with complex ecological data. We are optimistic that these methods will be especially useful to students and educators who are studying ecological dynamics, as well as researchers who would like a fast tool for basic analyses.
- Published
- 2020
164. Biodiversity policy beyond economic growth
- Abstract
Increasing evidence—synthesized in this paper—shows that economic growth contributes to biodiversity loss via greater resource consumption and higher emissions. Nonetheless, a review of international biodiversity and sustainability policies shows that the majority advocate economic growth. Since improvements in resource use efficiency have so far not allowed for absolute global reductions in resource use and pollution, we question the support for economic growth in these policies, where inadequate attention is paid to the question of how growth can be decoupled from biodiversity loss. Drawing on the literature about alternatives to economic growth, we explore this contradiction and suggest ways forward to halt global biodiversity decline. These include policy proposals to move beyond the growth paradigm while enhancing overall prosperity, which can be implemented by combining top‐down and bottom‐up governance across scales. Finally, we call the attention of researchers and policy makers to two immediate steps: acknowledge the conflict between economic growth and biodiversity conservation in future policies; and explore socioeconomic trajectories beyond economic growth in the next generation of biodiversity scenarios.
- Published
- 2020
165. Close the loop: Evidence on the implementation of the circular economy from the Italian fashion industry
- Abstract
Fashion is widely considered as one of the most polluting and destructive industries to the environment and is a resource-intensive industry in which opportunities to reduce environmental impacts abound. By relying on an exploratory approach, this paper features an investigation into the circular economy (CE) practices of four purposefully selected Italian fashion companies. The study endorses the overlooked perspective of the product lifecycle (vis-à-vis the business model perspective), consistent with the key principles of the CE, to provide a comprehensive picture of CE practices implemented. This study engages with the current debate on the relationship between the concepts of sustainability and CE, supporting the idea that there is a beneficial relation between the two. The analysis shows the emergence of categories of CE-related practices as well as CE implementation challenges. The study also provides granular insights into the nature of these challenges that hinder the implementation of CE and demonstrates how they can be turned into sources of competitive advantage. Drawing on this emblematic evidence, we develop a set of theoretical and managerial implications.
- Published
- 2020
166. Straw utilization for biofuel production: a consequential assessment of greenhouse gas emissions from bioethanol and biomethane provision with a focus on the time dependency of emissions
- Abstract
GCB Bioenergy published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd The shift from straw incorporation to biofuel production entails emissions from production, changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) and through the provision of (co-)products and entailed displacement effects. This paper analyses changes in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions arising from the shift from straw incorporation to biomethane and bioethanol production. The biomethane concept comprises comminution, anaerobic digestion and amine washing. It additionally provides an organic fertilizer. Bioethanol production comprises energetic use of lignin, steam explosion, enzymatic hydrolysis and co-fermentation. Additionally, feed is provided. A detailed consequential GHG balance with in-depth focus on the time dependency of emissions is conducted: (a) the change in the atmospheric load of emissions arising from the change in the temporal occurrence of emissions comparing two steady states (before the shift and once a new steady state has established); and (b) the annual change in overall emissions over time starting from the shift are assessed. The shift from straw incorporation to biomethane production results in net changes in GHG emissions of (a) −979 (−436 to −1,654) and (b) −955 (−220 to −1,623) kg CO2-eq. per tdry matter straw converted to biomethane (minimum and maximum). The shift to bioethanol production results in net changes of (a) −409 (−107 to −610) and (b) −361 (57 to −603) kg CO2-eq. per tdry matter straw converted to bioethanol. If the atmospheric load of emissions arising from different timing of emissions is neglected in case (a), the change in GHG emissions differs by up to 54%. Case (b) reveals carbon payback times of 0 (0–49) and 19 (1–100) years in case of biomethane and bioethanol production, respectively. These results demonstrate that the detailed inclusion of temporal aspects into GHG balances is required to get a comprehensive understanding of changes in GHG emissions induced by the introduction of adva
- Published
- 2020
167. Towards Improved Guidelines for Cost–Benefit Analysis of Sport and Cultural Events
- Abstract
Consistent evaluation procedures would be necessary to assess correctly the impacts of sport and cultural events, in particular large events. This paper reviews methodological issues in CBA of sport and cultural events based on what appears as the first attempt to provide guidelines for such analysis: the Framework used by New South Wales Treasury. This framework actually deals with most of the questions that an analyst would have to consider on this issue. Based on this document, we propose various possible amendments, which mostly relate to a fuller consideration of opportunity costs, displacement and other General Equilibrium effects. Many of the methodological issues investigated may have an important impact on the analysis results.
- Published
- 2020
168. The role of financial capability and culture in financial satisfaction
- Abstract
This paper presents an integrated framework for understanding the determinants of financial satisfaction in the context of two European nations with different cultural environments. The direct, indirect and interactive effects were tested through the path analysis method. It was found that to be financially capable is imperative because it governs the impacts of financial attitude and financial knowledge on financial satisfaction. Moreover, findings show that culture matters in explaining differences between countries. Hence, individualistic societies, compared to collectivistic ones, reflect a stronger relationship between financial attitude and financial satisfaction. Additionally, countries showing a high propensity in avoiding uncertainty reflect a negative association between risk tolerance and financial satisfaction, while those lacking such preference manifest a positive relationship. © 2020 The Economic Society of Australia
- Published
- 2020
169. Close the loop: Evidence on the implementation of the circular economy from the Italian fashion industry
- Abstract
Fashion is widely considered as one of the most polluting and destructive industries to the environment and is a resource-intensive industry in which opportunities to reduce environmental impacts abound. By relying on an exploratory approach, this paper features an investigation into the circular economy (CE) practices of four purposefully selected Italian fashion companies. The study endorses the overlooked perspective of the product lifecycle (vis-à-vis the business model perspective), consistent with the key principles of the CE, to provide a comprehensive picture of CE practices implemented. This study engages with the current debate on the relationship between the concepts of sustainability and CE, supporting the idea that there is a beneficial relation between the two. The analysis shows the emergence of categories of CE-related practices as well as CE implementation challenges. The study also provides granular insights into the nature of these challenges that hinder the implementation of CE and demonstrates how they can be turned into sources of competitive advantage. Drawing on this emblematic evidence, we develop a set of theoretical and managerial implications.
- Published
- 2020
170. Close the loop: Evidence on the implementation of the circular economy from the Italian fashion industry
- Abstract
Fashion is widely considered as one of the most polluting and destructive industries to the environment and is a resource-intensive industry in which opportunities to reduce environmental impacts abound. By relying on an exploratory approach, this paper features an investigation into the circular economy (CE) practices of four purposefully selected Italian fashion companies. The study endorses the overlooked perspective of the product lifecycle (vis-à-vis the business model perspective), consistent with the key principles of the CE, to provide a comprehensive picture of CE practices implemented. This study engages with the current debate on the relationship between the concepts of sustainability and CE, supporting the idea that there is a beneficial relation between the two. The analysis shows the emergence of categories of CE-related practices as well as CE implementation challenges. The study also provides granular insights into the nature of these challenges that hinder the implementation of CE and demonstrates how they can be turned into sources of competitive advantage. Drawing on this emblematic evidence, we develop a set of theoretical and managerial implications.
- Published
- 2020
171. Close the loop: Evidence on the implementation of the circular economy from the Italian fashion industry
- Abstract
Fashion is widely considered as one of the most polluting and destructive industries to the environment and is a resource-intensive industry in which opportunities to reduce environmental impacts abound. By relying on an exploratory approach, this paper features an investigation into the circular economy (CE) practices of four purposefully selected Italian fashion companies. The study endorses the overlooked perspective of the product lifecycle (vis-à-vis the business model perspective), consistent with the key principles of the CE, to provide a comprehensive picture of CE practices implemented. This study engages with the current debate on the relationship between the concepts of sustainability and CE, supporting the idea that there is a beneficial relation between the two. The analysis shows the emergence of categories of CE-related practices as well as CE implementation challenges. The study also provides granular insights into the nature of these challenges that hinder the implementation of CE and demonstrates how they can be turned into sources of competitive advantage. Drawing on this emblematic evidence, we develop a set of theoretical and managerial implications.
- Published
- 2020
172. Close the loop: Evidence on the implementation of the circular economy from the Italian fashion industry
- Abstract
Fashion is widely considered as one of the most polluting and destructive industries to the environment and is a resource-intensive industry in which opportunities to reduce environmental impacts abound. By relying on an exploratory approach, this paper features an investigation into the circular economy (CE) practices of four purposefully selected Italian fashion companies. The study endorses the overlooked perspective of the product lifecycle (vis-à-vis the business model perspective), consistent with the key principles of the CE, to provide a comprehensive picture of CE practices implemented. This study engages with the current debate on the relationship between the concepts of sustainability and CE, supporting the idea that there is a beneficial relation between the two. The analysis shows the emergence of categories of CE-related practices as well as CE implementation challenges. The study also provides granular insights into the nature of these challenges that hinder the implementation of CE and demonstrates how they can be turned into sources of competitive advantage. Drawing on this emblematic evidence, we develop a set of theoretical and managerial implications.
- Published
- 2020
173. The Effectiveness of Interventions to Improve Self-Management for Adolescents and Young Adults With Allergic Conditions: A Systematic Review
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: This systematic review aimed to review the literature on interventions for improving self-management and well-being in adolescents and young adults (11-25 years) with asthma and allergic conditions. METHODS: A systematic literature search was undertaken across eight databases. References were checked by two reviewers for inclusion. Study data were extracted, and their quality was assessed in duplicate. A narrative synthesis was undertaken. RESULTS: A total of 30 papers reporting data from 27 studies were included. Interventions types were psychological (k = 9); e-health (k = 8); educational (k = 4); peer-led (k = 5); breathing re-training (k = 1). All interventions were for asthma. Psychological interventions resulted in significant improvements in the intervention group compared with the control group for self-esteem, quality of life, self-efficacy, coping strategies, mood and asthma symptoms. E-Health interventions reported significant improvements for inhaler technique, adherence and quality of life. General educational interventions demonstrated significantly improved quality of life, management of asthma symptoms, controller medication use, increased use of a written management plan and reduction in symptoms. The peer-led interventions included the Triple A (Adolescent Asthma Action) programme and a peer-led camp based on the Power Breathing Programme. Improvements were found for self-efficacy, school absenteeism and quality of life. CONCLUSION: Although significant improvements were seen for all intervention types, many were small feasibility or pilot studies, few studies reported effect sizes and no studies for allergic conditions other than asthma met the inclusion criteria. Research using large longitudinal interventional designs across the range of allergic conditions is required to strengthen the evidence base.
- Published
- 2020
174. Understanding the Challenges Faced by Adolescents and Young Adults With Allergic Conditions: A Systematic Review
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Adolescence represents a vulnerable time for individuals with asthma and allergic conditions. They suffer an unexpected degree of morbidity. This systematic review aimed to understand the challenges faced by adolescents and young adults with these conditions. METHODS: A systematic literature search was undertaken across eight databases. References were checked by two reviewers for inclusion. Study data were extracted, and their quality was assessed in duplicate. A narrative meta-synthesis was undertaken. RESULTS: A total of 108 papers describing 106 studies were retrieved, most focused on asthma. Five themes were identified across studies: (a) Health-related quality of life-impairment was associated with poor disease control, psychosocial issues, adolescent-onset allergic disease and female sex; (b) Psychological factors-asthma and food allergy were associated with anxiety and depression, atopic dermatitis was associated with suicidal ideation, and that parental emotional support may be protective; (c) Adherence-suboptimal adherence was associated with older age, barriers to medication usage, poor symptom perception and failure to take responsibility, and positive factors were routines, simpler treatment regimes, better knowledge and perceptions about medications; (d) Self-management-facilitated by education, knowledge and a positive attitude; and (e) Supportive relationships-families could modify barriers to adherence and foster positive views about self-management, adolescents suggested that their peers should be more involved in supporting them, and adolescents also wished to have support from nonjudgemental healthcare professionals. CONCLUSIONS: We have some understanding of the challenges faced by adolescents with asthma, less so for other allergic conditions. This knowledge will be used to support guidelines for managing adolescents.
- Published
- 2020
175. Exposure to interpersonal racism and avoidance behaviours reported by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a disability
- Abstract
Using the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey, this paper examines exposure to interpersonal racism and avoidance reported by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disabilities. We find that in 2014–2015, 32 per cent of people aged 15–64 without a disability experienced racism compared with 42 per cent of those with a disability. Half of those living with an intellectual or psychological disability reported racism, and about 20 per cent of those with any disability avoided settings such as healthcare, education or the general public due to past instances of racism, relative to 11 per cent of those without a disability. After adjusting for confounding factors and complex survey design, presence of a disability was associated with a 1.6–1.8 odds increase in exposure to racism, more frequent racist exposure and avoidance. Disability was further associated with an approximate doubling of the odds of reporting multi‐context avoidance and the likelihood of reporting both racism and avoidance in tandem. Severity of disability, higher numbers of disabling conditions and specific disability types were associated with increased odds of racism and avoidance. Independent of these effects, removal from one's natural family and identifying with homelands was strongly associated with racism and avoidance.
- Published
- 2020
176. Indigenous family life in Australia: A history of difference and deficit
- Abstract
Indigenous family life has been a key target of family and child policies in Australia since colonisation. In this paper, we identify four main policy eras that have shaped the national and state policy frameworks that have impacted Indigenous families: the protectionism, assimilation, self‐determination and neoliberalism eras. Our analysis of these national and state policy frameworks reveals an enduring and negative conceptualisation of Indigenous family life. This conceptualisation continues to position Indigenous families as deficient and dysfunctional compared with a white, Anglo‐Australian family ideal. This contributes to the reproduction of paternalistic policy settings and the racialised hierarchies within them that entrench Indigenous disempowerment and reproduce Indigenous disadvantage. Further, it maintains a deficit paradigm that continues to obfuscate the positive aspects of Indigenous family life that are protective of Indigenous well‐being.
- Published
- 2020
177. Microbial carbon limitation ‐ the need for integrating microorganisms into our understanding of ecosystem carbon cycling
- Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that fertilization with nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium increase plant productivity in both natural and managed ecosystems, demonstrating that primary productivity is nutrient limited in most terrestrial ecosystems. In contrast, it has been demonstrated that heterotrophic microbial communities in soil are primarily limited by organic carbon or energy. While this concept of contrasting limitations, i.e., microbial carbon and plant nutrient limitation, is based on strong evidence that we review in this paper, it is often ignored in discussions of ecosystem response to global environment changes. The plant-centric perspective has equated plant-nutrient limitations with those of whole ecosystems, thereby ignoring the important role of the heterotrophs responsible for soil decomposition in driving ecosystem carbon storage. In order to truly integrate carbon and nutrient cycles in ecosystem science, we must account for the fact that while plant productivity may be nutrient- limited, the secondary productivity by heterotrophic communities is inherently carbon-limited. Ecosystem carbon cycling integrates the independent physiological responses of its individual components, as well as tightly coupled exchanges between autotrophs and heterotrophs. To the extent that the interacting autotrophic and heterotrophic processes are controlled by organisms that are limited by nutrient versus carbon accessibility, respectively, we propose that ecosystems by definition cannot be 'limited' by nutrients or carbon alone. Here, we outline how models aimed at predicting non-steady state ecosystem responses over time can benefit from dissecting ecosystems into the organismal components and their inherent limitations to better represent plant-microbe interactions in coupled carbon and nutrient models.
- Published
- 2020
178. Moral Character and the Significance of Action: Judging Dmitri Karamazov
- Abstract
The paper considers the problematic relation between a person and her action as it is expressed in the problem of blame and moral judgement. I argue that blaming someone for her action does affect our moral judgement of her, but does not imply condemnation of her moral character. I use the example of Dmitri Karamazov to show that a response to a particular situation, although shaped by the previous character of the person, does not follow from it and can in turn affect and change the person's character by changing the way in which she perceives what is valuable.
- Published
- 2020
179. Towards Improved Guidelines for Cost–Benefit Analysis of Sport and Cultural Events
- Abstract
Consistent evaluation procedures would be necessary to assess correctly the impacts of sport and cultural events, in particular large events. This paper reviews methodological issues in CBA of sport and cultural events based on what appears as the first attempt to provide guidelines for such analysis: the Framework used by New South Wales Treasury. This framework actually deals with most of the questions that an analyst would have to consider on this issue. Based on this document, we propose various possible amendments, which mostly relate to a fuller consideration of opportunity costs, displacement and other General Equilibrium effects. Many of the methodological issues investigated may have an important impact on the analysis results.
- Published
- 2020
180. Institutional fragmentation and metropolitan coordination in Latin American cities: Are there links with city productivity?
- Abstract
This paper provides empirical evidence on the impact of institutional fragmentation and metropolitan coordination on urban productivity in Latin American Cities. The use of night-time lights satellite imagery and high resolution population data allow us to use a definition of metropolitan area based on the urban extents that result from the union between the formally defined metropolitan areas and the contiguous patches of urbanized areas with more than 500,000 inhabitants. Initial results suggest that the presence of multiple local governments within metropolitan areas generate opposite effects in urban productivity. On the one hand, smaller governments tend to be more responsive and efficient, which increases productivity. But, on the other hand, multiple local governments face co-ordination costs that result in lower productivity levels. © 2020 The Author(s). Regional Science Policy and Practice © 2020 RSAI
- Published
- 2020
181. fib models for modeling of chloride ion ingress and concrete carbonation: Levels of assessment of input parameters
- Abstract
Degradation processes affecting structural materials, such as chloride ion ingress, concrete carbonation, and the subsequent corrosion of reinforcement, are limiting factors for the service life of reinforced concrete structures and/or structural elements. The objective of a structural condition assessment is to determine the current state and estimate the future performance of a structure with a maximum degree of accuracy and a minimum of effort. There is therefore a need for advanced methodologies and predictive deterioration models for the assessment of structures/structural elements over time. In the paper, the focus is on the widely accepted models for modeling of chloride ion ingress into concrete and concrete carbonation process incorporated in the fib Model Code 2010. Three levels of assessment of input parameters are presented, starting with simple quantification based on codes/literature recommendations and progressing to higher levels of assessment using design documentation and visual inspection data, additional on-site measurements, and/or laboratory tests.
- Published
- 2020
182. fib models for modeling of chloride ion ingress and concrete carbonation: Levels of assessment of input parameters
- Abstract
Degradation processes affecting structural materials, such as chloride ion ingress, concrete carbonation, and the subsequent corrosion of reinforcement, are limiting factors for the service life of reinforced concrete structures and/or structural elements. The objective of a structural condition assessment is to determine the current state and estimate the future performance of a structure with a maximum degree of accuracy and a minimum of effort. There is therefore a need for advanced methodologies and predictive deterioration models for the assessment of structures/structural elements over time. In the paper, the focus is on the widely accepted models for modeling of chloride ion ingress into concrete and concrete carbonation process incorporated in the fib Model Code 2010. Three levels of assessment of input parameters are presented, starting with simple quantification based on codes/literature recommendations and progressing to higher levels of assessment using design documentation and visual inspection data, additional on-site measurements, and/or laboratory tests.
- Published
- 2020
183. Machine learning to quantify habitual physical activity in children with cerebral palsy
- Abstract
Aim: To investigate whether activity-monitors and machine learning models could provide accurate information about physical activity performed by children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) who use mobility aids for ambulation. Method: Eleven participants (mean age 11y [SD 3y]; six females, five males) classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III and IV, completed six physical activity trials wearing a tri-axial accelerometer on the wrist, hip, and thigh. Trials included supine rest, upper-limb task, walking, wheelchair propulsion, and cycling. Three supervised learning algorithms (decision tree, support vector machine [SVM], random forest) were trained on features in the raw-acceleration signal. Model-performance was evaluated using leave-one-subject-out cross-validation accuracy. Results: Cross-validation accuracy for the single-placement models ranged from 59% to 79%, with the best performance achieved by the random forest wrist model (79%). Combining features from two or more accelerometer placements significantly improved classification accuracy. The random forest wrist and hip model achieved an overall accuracy of 92%, while the SVM wrist, hip, and thigh model achieved an overall accuracy of 90%. Interpretation: Models trained on features in the raw-acceleration signal may provide accurate recognition of clinically relevant physical activity behaviours in children and adolescents with CP who use mobility aids for ambulation in a controlled setting. What this paper adds: Machine learning may assist clinicians in evaluating the efficacy of surgical and therapy-based interventions. Machine learning may help researchers better understand the short- and long-term benefits of physical activity for children with more severe motor impairments.
- Published
- 2020
184. Demystifying the link between emotional loneliness and brand loyalty: Mediating roles of nostalgia, materialism and self-brand connections
- Abstract
This paper explores the mechanism by which consumers use their self-brand connections and emotional attachment with brands to cope with the emotional loneliness that may be caused by the absence of intimate relationships with close others. The authors also examine the mediating roles played by nostalgia and materialism on the reinforcement of brand loyalty in this process using a multi-stage model. An online survey with 456 Malaysians working adults supports all the hypotheses. Specifically, emotional loneliness has positive associations with nostalgia and materialism, both of which mediate the positive associations between emotional loneliness and self-brand connections. Self-brand connections also mediate the positive associations of nostalgia and materialism with emotional brand attachment, which in turn mediates the positive association between self-brand connections and brand loyalty. The authors discuss the theoretical contribution and managerial implications of these findings.
- Published
- 2020
185. Indocyanine green in the surgical management of endometriosis: A systematic review
- Abstract
Introduction: Endometriosis is a very common disease that affects up to 10% of the female population. The use of indocyanine green (ICG) dye has been proposed to allow the proper localization of endometriotic lesions during surgery. Our purpose is to offer an overview of near-infrared (NIR)-ICG in the surgical treatment of superficial peritoneal endometriosis and deep infiltrating endometriosis. Material and methods: Electronic databases were searched, including MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, ClinicalTrial.gov, OVID and Cochrane Library. The studies were identified with the use of a mesh combination of the following keywords: “indocyanine green”, “endometriosis”, “deep endometriosis”, “robotic surgery”, “laparoscopy”, “ureter”, “rectosigmoid” from 2000 to May 2020. All articles describing the use of ICG applied to endometriosis surgery were considered for review. Only original papers that reported specific experience data on the topic were included. Moreover, video-articles were included in the analysis. Quality and risk of bias were evaluated by two authors, respectively. Results: Fifty-three studies were reviewed and reviews or comment articles not reporting original data and original articles lacking specific data on the application of ICG in patients affected by endometriosis were excluded. The quality of the 17 studies included was assessed. Eight studies suggested the usefulness of NIR-ICG as a tool in the detection of endometriosis during surgery, and one randomized controlled trial and one prospective study did not confirm the advantage of its use. Eight studies found that NIR-ICG was useful for the evaluation of vascularization in intestinal anastomoses and ureterolysis after surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis. Conclusions: NIR-ICG appears useful in the evaluation of vascularization in intestinal anastomoses after segmental resection, confirming its role even after ureterolysis for parametrial deep infiltrating endometriosis. However, its
- Published
- 2020
186. Temperaturecontrol for a proton-exchange membrane fuel cell system with unknown dynamic compensations
- Abstract
Numerous control strategies of temperature regulation have been carried out for proton-exchange membrane fuel cell systems including a cooling fan in order to ensure operation at the desired condition and extend the lifetime of the fuel cell stack. However, most existing control strategies are developed without considering the efficiency limitation of the cooling system such that the cooling fan may be unable to eliminate the additional heat. Moreover, there are unknown modelling errors, external disturbance and noise during modelling and experiment processes for fuel cells. Due to those unknown dynamics, the conventional control strategies may fail to achieve the expectant results. To address this issue, an alternative control strategy is proposed in this paper, which consists of a composite proportional-integral (PI) controller with an unknown system dynamics estimator. First, the control strategy is developed by reducing the temperature of input air through the humidifier and simultaneously increasing the mass flow of air in order to eliminate the excess heat that a cooling fan cannot remove. Moreover, an unknown system dynamics estimator is proposed in order to compensate the effect of the unknown dynamics. The construction of the estimator is designed through finding an invariant manifold which implies the relation between known variables and the unknown manifold. The invariant manifold is derived by applying a simple low-pass filter to the system which is beneficial to avoid the requirement of the unmeasurable state derivative. Furthermore, the proposed estimator is easily merged into the proposed PI control strategy and ensures the exponential convergence of estimated errors. Besides, the estimator is further modified such that the derivative of the desired temperature is not required in the controller. Finally, numerical simulations of the PEMFC system are provided and the results illustrate the efficacy of the proposed control strategy., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (published version)
- Published
- 2020
187. Using Q-methodology to explore mental health nurses’ knowledge and skills to use recovery-focused care to reduce aggression in acute mental health settings
- Abstract
© 2020 Australian College of Mental Health Nurses Inc. When nurses practise recovery‐focused care, they contribute positively to the consumer’s mental health recovery journey and empower the person to be actively engaged in the management of their illness. While using recovery‐focused care is endorsed in mental health policy, many health professionals remain uncertain about its application with consumers who have a risk for aggression during their admission to an acute mental health inpatient setting. This paper reports on Australian research using Q‐methodology that examined the knowledge and skill components of recovery‐focused care that nurses use to reduce the risk for aggression. The data from forty mental health nurses revealed five factors that when implemented as part of routine practice improved the recovery outcomes for consumers with risk of aggression in the acute mental health settings. These factors were as follows: (I) acknowledge the consumers’ experience of hospitalization; (II) reassure consumers who are going through a difficult time; (III) interact to explore the impact of the consumer’s negative lived experiences; (IV) support co‐production to reduce triggers for aggression; and (V) encourage and support consumers to take ownership of their recovery journey. These findings provide nurses with a pragmatic approach to use recovery‐focused care for consumers with risk for aggression and contribute positively to the consumers’ personal recovery.
- Published
- 2020
188. Road or Rail? The partisan politics of urban transport policy in the Australian States
- Abstract
This paper addresses the question of “what is ‘Labor’ about state Labor governments?” by comparing the policies of the two sides of politics in respect of public transport. It postulates a clear difference that should be manifest in Labor’s preference for rail and the Coalition’s preference for roads. To test that proposition it conducts a longitudinal comparison within one state (Western Australia) and triangulates that by surveying across jurisdictions.
- Published
- 2020
189. Studying Labor Governments in the Australian States: theory and method
- Abstract
This paper explores approaches to the study of Labor governments, and the impact of party more generally, at the state level in Australia. To do so it reviews the literature on the study of state governments; outlines the main questions to be asked; summarises the range of perspectives that have been brought to bear on those questions; discusses the methods that might be used; and reviews the achievements of key relevant studies.
- Published
- 2020
190. The role of financial capability and culture in financial satisfaction
- Abstract
This paper presents an integrated framework for understanding the determinants of financial satisfaction in the context of two European nations with different cultural environments. The direct, indirect and interactive effects were tested through the path analysis method. It was found that to be financially capable is imperative because it governs the impacts of financial attitude and financial knowledge on financial satisfaction. Moreover, findings show that culture matters in explaining differences between countries. Hence, individualistic societies, compared to collectivistic ones, reflect a stronger relationship between financial attitude and financial satisfaction. Additionally, countries showing a high propensity in avoiding uncertainty reflect a negative association between risk tolerance and financial satisfaction, while those lacking such preference manifest a positive relationship. © 2020 The Economic Society of Australia
- Published
- 2020
191. Microbial carbon limitation ‐ the need for integrating microorganisms into our understanding of ecosystem carbon cycling
- Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that fertilization with nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium increase plant productivity in both natural and managed ecosystems, demonstrating that primary productivity is nutrient limited in most terrestrial ecosystems. In contrast, it has been demonstrated that heterotrophic microbial communities in soil are primarily limited by organic carbon or energy. While this concept of contrasting limitations, i.e., microbial carbon and plant nutrient limitation, is based on strong evidence that we review in this paper, it is often ignored in discussions of ecosystem response to global environment changes. The plant-centric perspective has equated plant-nutrient limitations with those of whole ecosystems, thereby ignoring the important role of the heterotrophs responsible for soil decomposition in driving ecosystem carbon storage. In order to truly integrate carbon and nutrient cycles in ecosystem science, we must account for the fact that while plant productivity may be nutrient- limited, the secondary productivity by heterotrophic communities is inherently carbon-limited. Ecosystem carbon cycling integrates the independent physiological responses of its individual components, as well as tightly coupled exchanges between autotrophs and heterotrophs. To the extent that the interacting autotrophic and heterotrophic processes are controlled by organisms that are limited by nutrient versus carbon accessibility, respectively, we propose that ecosystems by definition cannot be 'limited' by nutrients or carbon alone. Here, we outline how models aimed at predicting non-steady state ecosystem responses over time can benefit from dissecting ecosystems into the organismal components and their inherent limitations to better represent plant-microbe interactions in coupled carbon and nutrient models.
- Published
- 2020
192. The relation between time spent reading and reading comprehension throughout the life course
- Abstract
Journal of Research in Reading, Vol 43 No 1 (2020), S. 57– 77., Background: In the present paper, we investigated the association between time spent reading and reading comprehension throughout the lifespan. According to the Matthew effect (or rich‐get‐richer and poor‐get‐poorer) model, interindividual differences in reading‐related skills between poor and average readers become wider as individuals grow older. Furthermore, the model states that these differences may be caused by different reading habits (i.e., the amount of time spent reading). Less competent readers tend to read less and therefore show less improvement in their reading skills. Competent readers tend to read more and therefore show greater improvement in their reading skills. Therefore, we propose that the correlation between time spent reading and reading comprehension should increase as people grow older. Method: To test this hypothesis, we analysed data from the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS). We used data from four cohorts (N = 28,795) with an age range from preadolescence (Grade 5) to later adulthood (>55 years). Results: Our results showed a medium‐sized correlation between leisure‐time reading and reading comprehension for students attending secondary school (β ~ 0.20). Contrary to our expectations, the correlations decreased with age and reached a stable low level (β ~ 0.07) in adulthood. However, for adults, occupation‐related reading predicted reading comprehension (β = 0.13–0.23). Conclusion: According to our results, reading should be viewed as a process that changes throughout the lifespan. Furthermore, results and implications from previous studies on the relation between time spent reading and reading skills from research conducted on school students might not be generalisable to adults. With respect to the results of the present study, we might restrict the validity of the Matthew effect in reading to school students and young adolescents.
- Published
- 2020
193. Neurodevelopmental and health-related quality-of-life outcomes in adolescence after surgery for congenital heart disease in infancy
- Abstract
Aim: To assess outcomes in adolescence after surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) in infancy. Domains analysed included cognition and executive function, social and emotional well-being, adaptive behaviour, academic achievement, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Method: Twenty-one participants (10 males, 11 females) ranged in age from 14 to 17 years (mean 15y 4.8mo, SD 8.4mo). Twenty had biventricular repairs. All were classified as New York Heart Association class I. Measures included: Wechsler Intelligence and Achievement scales; Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, Second Edition; California Verbal Learning Test – Children's Version; Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function; Conners, Third Edition; Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, Second Edition; Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition; Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure; and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Results: Outcomes were significantly lower (p≤0.01) than population norms for processing speed, mathematical achievement, attention, and visual–spatial ability. Participants reported more frequent learning problems but more positive family relations. HRQoL was significantly lower across most domains by self- and parent-proxy report. Interpretation: Individuals with CHD may experience difficulties across a range of domains. These findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive screening, early intervention, and long-term follow-up, as deficits may extend into young adulthood. What this paper adds: Identified cognitive, learning, and attentional impairments in adolescents after congenital heart disease surgery in infancy. Combined self-report, caregiver report, and laboratory tasks in a comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment protocol. Health-related quality of life was lower across most domains.
- Published
- 2020
194. Novel sexual dimorphism in a new genus of Bathynellidae from Russia, with a revision of phylogenetic relationships
- Abstract
Bathynellidae is the neglected family of Bathynellacea, a groundwater group of crus- taceans with 33 genera and 107 species described and almost half of them included in the `catch-all¿ genus Bathynella. Due to the morphological homogeneity of the spe- cies, the taxonomic uncertainties have accumulated over time. Therefore, to explore the phylogenetic relationships among taxa, a combined approach using morphologi- cal and molecular data is needed. In this paper, we performed a phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of COI and 18S including 30 species of Bathynellidae. This data set represents the most updated one, including a new genus and a new spe- cies (Altainella calcarata gen. n. sp. n.) of Bathynellidae described here from Altai Mountain (Russia). The new taxon presents a new type of sexual dimorphisms with a peculiar structure on the coxopod of the male thoracopod VII and also sexual dimor- phism on the mandibular palp, as some species of the subfamily Gallobathynellinae. This is the first species of Bathynellidae that presents both variants of sexual dimor- phism. The molecular phylogeny supports the morphology and the erection of the new genus and displays highly divergent genetic units corresponding to subfamilies, with the new genus closer to Bathynellinae genera than other subfamilies. With the description of this new species and its molecular characterization, the existence of the other genera beyond Bathynella is confirmed in Eurasia.
- Published
- 2020
195. Advancing ecohydrology in the 21st century: A convergence of opportunities
- Abstract
Nature‐based solutions for water‐resource challenges require advances in the science of ecohydrology. Current understanding is limited by a shortage of observations and theories that can further our capability to synthesize complex processes across scales ranging from submillimetres to tens of kilometres. Recent developments in environmental sensing, data, and modelling have the potential to drive rapid improvements in ecohydrological understanding. After briefly reviewing advances in sensor technologies, this paper highlights how improved measurements and modelling can be applied to enhance understanding of the following ecohydrological examples: interception and canopy processes, root uptake and critical zone processes, and up‐scaled effects of land use on streamflow. Novel and improved sensors will enable new questions and experiments, while machine learning and empirical methods provide additional opportunities to advance science. The synergy resulting from the convergence of these parallel developments will provide new insight into ecohydrological processes and thereby help identify nature‐based solutions to address water‐resource challenges in the 21st century.
- Published
- 2020
196. Nitrogen storage regulation by PII protein: lessons learned from taxonomic outliers
- Abstract
The paper 'Interaction of N-acetyl-l-glutamate kinase with the PII signal transducer in the non-photosynthetic alga Polytomella parva: Co-evolution towards a hetero-oligomeric enzyme' by Selim et al. highlights how the study of a true taxonomic oddity, the heterotrophic unicellular alga P. parva, has been instrumental in uncovering the large potential for adaptive variation in the signaling complex of PII with the enzyme N-acetylglutamate kinase (NAGK). This complex modifies the regulatory properties of NAGK, allowing nitrogen stockpiling as arginine. In P. parva, a stable PII-NAGK complex is formed which lacks regulation by canonical PII effectors but which exhibits novel adaptive responses to nitrogen abundance mediated by glutamine, a neo-effector of PII proteins of photosynthetic eukaryotes.
- Published
- 2020
197. Recommendations for the design of grouped headed studs
- Abstract
Grouped headed studs may be successfully utilized to achieve the longitudinal shear connection between prefabricated slabs and steel beams. The behaviour of the studs and the ultimate resistance of the group were analysed using the results of experimental push tests and by employing advanced FE analyses. Different arrangements of studs in the group were investigated, focusing on minimal distance between the studs. It is demonstrated that the full shear resistance of a group of headed studs is achieved even when the distances between the studs are less than the minimum requirement according to EN 1994-1-1. Concrete class C30/37 is the minimum that should be used. Furthermore, the paper presents a new model for calculating the shear resistance of grouped headed studs. The proposed design model is based on an equivalent stud diameter and can be used for various arrangements of headed studs in a group. The shear resistance formula and the requirements for ductility are consistent with the existing Eurocodes. Fatigue loading is not considered in this paper, so the proposed recommendations are valid for buildings including multi-storey car parks.
- Published
- 2017
198. Long-term viability of the northern anthracnose pathogen, Kabatiella caulivora, facilitates its transportation and spread
- Abstract
The conidia and resting hyphae of the northern anthracnose pathogen of Trifolium species, Kabatiella caulivora, were effectively carried by, and maintained long-term viability on, a range of materials, including metals, fabrics, woods and plastics. Conidia and hyphae became thick-walled and melanized with time. There were significant (P < 0.001) differences in conidia/resting hyphae survival between carrier materials and between temperature regimes. At 23 °C/8 °C day/night, conidia and resting hyphae remained viable on steel, corrugated iron, galvanized steel, all tested fabrics, wood and random mixed materials for up to 8 months. At 36 °C/14 °C day/night, conidia and resting hyphae remained viable for up to 8 months, but only on cotton, denim, fleece, silk, leather, paper, plastic and all wood materials. At 45 °C/15 °C day/night, conidia and resting hyphae remained viable up to 8 months only on fleece wool, Eucalyptus marginata (jarrah wood) and paper. There were significant differences between carrier materials in their abilities to retain conidia and resting hyphae after washing (P < 0.001). Metabolic activity was confirmed for conidia and resting hyphae recovered after 8 months and K. caulivora colonies successfully re-established on potato dextrose agar. Findings confirmed the critical importance of materials as long-term carriers of viable K. caulivora conidia and resting hyphae, highlighting the potential for spread of a highly virulent K. caulivora race within and outside Australia via farming equipment, clothing and other associated materials. Results also have wider biosecurity implications for the transportation of fungal-infested carrier materials previously considered as low risk.
- Published
- 2017
199. Eliciting conditioned taste aversion in lizards: Live toxic prey are more effective than scent and taste cues alone
- Abstract
Conditioned taste aversion (CTA) is an adaptive learning mechanism whereby a consumer associates the taste of a certain food with symptoms caused by a toxic substance, and thereafter avoids eating that type of food. Recently, wildlife researchers have employed CTA to discourage native fauna from ingesting toxic cane toads (Rhinella marina), a species that is invading tropical Australia. In this paper, we compare the results of 2 sets of CTA trials on large varanid lizards (“goannas,” Varanus panoptes). One set of trials (described in this paper) exposed recently-captured lizards to sausages made from cane toad flesh, laced with a nausea-inducing chemical (lithium chloride) to reinforce the aversion response. The other trials (in a recently-published paper, reviewed herein) exposed free-ranging lizards to live juvenile cane toads. The effectiveness of the training was judged by how long a lizard survived in the wild before it was killed (fatally poisoned) by a cane toad. Both stimuli elicited rapid aversion to live toads, but the CTA response did not enhance survival rates of the sausage-trained goannas after they were released into the wild. In contrast, the goannas exposed to live juvenile toads exhibited higher long-term survival rates than did untrained conspecifics. Our results suggest that although it is relatively easy to elicit short-term aversion to toad cues in goannas, a biologically realistic stimulus (live toads, encountered by free-ranging predators) is most effective at buffering these reptiles from the impact of invasive toxic prey.
- Published
- 2017
200. Fast and efficient probing of heterogeneous IoT networks
- Abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT) leads to the interconnectivity of a wide range of device types running an equally wide range of operating systems and applications. This heterogeneity of hardware and software poses significant challenges to security. Constrained IoT devices often do not have enough resources to carry the overhead of an intrusion protection system or complex security protocols. Furthermore, they are often not properly managed and updated. Network scans are a valuable tool to discover vulnerable devices. In the context of IoT, the initiator of the scan can be particularly interested in finding constrained devices, assuming that they are easier targets for attacks. However, in IoT networks hosting devices of various types, performing a scan with a high discovery rate can be a challenging task, since a scan working well for, eg, a WiFi network might easily overload a low-power network such as IEEE 802.15.4. In this paper, we propose an approach to increase the efficiency of network scans in heterogeneous environments by combining them with active round-trip time measurements. The measurements allow the scanner to differentiate IoT nodes by the used network technology. Using the knowledge gained from this differentiation, our approach adapts the scan strategy to reduce probe losses, and hence the speed and efficiency of the scan. We validate our approach through simulations of a mixed IoT infrastructure consisting of WiFi and multihop IEEE 802.15.4 subnetworks.
- Published
- 2017
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