bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Information Technology on Retailer Satisfaction Through Supply Chain Management Practices and Retailer-Distributor Relationship in Modern Retailer Surabaya
Authors: Jiputra Juan Alexander , Tarigan Zeplin Jiwa Husada , Siagian Hotlan
Published: December 2020

Supply chain management is vital for manufacturing companies in connecting suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and corporate customers. The company's products will enter the company's distribution system through distributors, retailers, and end customers. This study examines how to enhance retailer satisfaction by taking into account the application of information technology, supply chain management practices, and retailer-distributor relationships. This study surveyed 86 modern retailers using a five-point Likert scale questionnaire. Data processing used PLS. The results showed that the information technology significantly improves the retailer-distributor relationships with a coefficient of 0.303. Also, information technology affects supply chain management practices with a coefficient of 0.527. Information technology has an effect of 0.281 on retailer satisfaction. The company implementing supply chain management practice improves the retailer-distributor relationship by 0.518, and supply chain management practice affects retailer satisfaction by 0.291. The results also showed that the retailer-distributor relationship affects retailer satisfaction by 0.358. This research provides an insight for the practitioner on how to improve the retailer satisfaction. This paper also contributes to the ongoing research in the field of supply chain management.
Ruthenium Catalysts Promoted by Lanthanide Oxyhydrides with High Hydride‐Ion Mobility for Low‐Temperature Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Ooya Kayato , Li Jiang , Fukui Keiga , Iimura Soshi , Nakao Takuya , Ogasawara Kiya , Sasase Masato , Abe Hitoshi , Niwa Yasuhiro , Kitano Masaaki , Hosono Hideo
Published: December 2020

Lanthanum oxyhydrides were recently reported to be fast hydride ion conductors with the highest conductivity at 100–400 °C. Here, the relationship between the hydride‐ion conduction and the ammonia synthesis activity of ruthenium‐loaded lanthanum oxyhydrides (Ru/LaH3−2xOx) is investigated. The onset ammonia formation temperature by the Ru/LaH3−2xOx is lower by 100 °C when compared to the Ru‐loaded lanthanum oxides. The apparent activation energy of ammonia synthesis over Ru/LaH3−2xOx is 64 kJ mol−1, which is much smaller than that of hydride‐ion conductivity (≈100 kJ mol−1), indicating no direct relationship between the catalytic activity and the bulk hydride‐ion conductivity. However, the catalytic performance is strongly correlated with the surface H− ion mobility of Ru/LaH3−2xOx, which gives rise to the formation of low work function electrons at H− ion vacancies near the Ru‐support interface and high resistance for H2 poisoning on the Ru catalyst. Moreover, LaH3−2xOx has high nitridation resistance as compared with lanthanum hydride (LaH3) under ammonia synthesis condition. As a result, the high surface H− concentration of Ru/LaH3−2xOx is preserved during ammonia synthesis, exhibiting more robust activity than Ru/LaH3. Almost the same results are obtained for Ru/CeH3−2xOx implicating the common characteristics of rare‐earth oxyhydride support.
Cost‐effectiveness of hydrophilic‐coated urinary catheters for individuals with spinal cord injury: A systematic review
Authors: Xi Min , Elterman Dean S. , Welk Blayne , Pakosh Maureen , Chan Brian C. F.
Published: December 2020

Objective

To identify and critically evaluate the economic evaluations examining the cost‐effectiveness of hydrophilic‐coated vs uncoated catheters for individuals with spinal cord injury.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, the Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Emcare for studies in English and French. There were no restrictions to the year of publication. Our search strategy included the following key terms: “spinal cord injury,” “catheterization,” and “cost analysis.”

Results

The search identified 371 studies, of which eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Five studies observed hydrophilic‐coated catheters to be cost‐effective compared to uncoated catheters. Two studies found hydrophilic‐coated catheters to be not cost‐effective compared to uncoated catheters and one study estimated that hydrophilic‐coated catheters reduced the long‐term health‐care costs compared to uncoated catheters.

Conclusion

The cost‐effectiveness of hydrophilic‐coated catheters was dependent on the comparator used, the consideration of long‐term effects, and the unit cost of treatment. Further studies are needed to explore the short‐term and long‐term effects of hydrophilic‐coated catheter use on urinary tract infections and clarify the impact of hydrophilic‐coated catheter use on long‐term renal function. Overall, our critical evaluation of the literature suggests that the evidence is pointing toward hydrophilic‐coated catheters being cost‐effective, particularly when a societal perspective is applied.
Multi‐Magnetic Properties of a Novel SCO [Fe(3‐OMe‐Sal2trien)][Fe(tdas)2]·CH3CN Salt
Authors: Spitsyna Nataliya , Ovanesyan Nikolay , Blagov Maxim , Krapivin Vladimir , Lobach Anatolii , Dmitriev Alexei , Simonov Sergey , Zorina Leokadiya , Pilia Luca , Deplano Paola , Vasiliev Alexander , Maximova Olga , Yagubskii Eduard
Published: December 2020

The multi‐magnetic salt [Fe(3‐OMe‐Sal2trien)][Fe(tdas)2]·CH3CN (1) has been prepared and fully characterized by a variety of methods. The crystal structure of 1, determined at 150, 297 and 350 K, consists of alternating layers composed by a parallel arrangement of the chains of isolated π–π coupled cation pairs of [Fe(3‐OMe‐Sal2trien)]+ and anion pairs of [Fe(tdas)2]–. The complex magnetic behavior of this salt is consistent with the sum of the contributions from spin‐crossover (SCO) cations and strong antiferromagnetically (AFM) coupled dimeric [Fe(tdas)2]22– anions. The observed gradual thermally induced spin transition (T1/2 = 195 K) is relatable to the cation exhibiting disordering of ethylene (–CH2–CH2–) groups between two conformers with a narrow thermal hysteresis of 6 K. The dc magnetization measurements and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy at room temperature are in excellent agreement between γHS(%) value and ratio of disordering of ethylene groups obtained from X‐ray analysis. Mössbauer spectra at 80 K and 296 K indicate a spin transition between S = 1/2 and S = 5/2 for the iron(III) saltrien‐cation and confirms S = 3/2 for the [FeIII(tdas)2]– anion. The experimental results are supplemented with a theoretical Density Functional Theory (DFT) analysis.
Spatiotemporal evolution of coal spontaneous combustion in longwall gobs: A case study from mining discontinuation to resumption
Authors: Qin Yueping , Song Yipeng , Liu Wei , Duo Wenhe
Published: December 2020

Coal mining is frequently halted for long periods of time due to geological faults, and the process of resuming mining is often fraught with danger. To address this issue, in this study, the previously developed COMBUSS‐3D software was optimized to simulate the process between mining discontinuation and resumption, based on the multi‐field coupling theory. The optimized software takes the temperature distribution in gobs when coal mining ends as the initial condition, and it considers the condition of spontaneous coal combustion after remining. The actual advance distance of the working face is introduced into the program compilation and solved by linear interpolation. These improvements ensure that the calculation results are more realistic. The results demonstrate that the high‐temperature zone is distributed on the air intake side of the gob, and its final location largely depends on the remining advance rate. The hazardous area of spontaneous ignition gradually moves to a deep suffocation zone of the gob when the mining of the coal wall resumes, the residual coal is no longer oxidized, and CO formation is gradually decreased, which is verified by the theoretical expectations and on‐site observations. The spontaneous combustion period can be effectively prolonged by reducing the thickness of crushed coal during the mining stage or by increasing the longwall advance rate after resuming mining. This study can provide significant guidance and suggestion on locating the hazardous area in gobs and suppressing the spontaneous coal ignition.
Geochemistry of Eocene Bawang Member turbidites of the Belaga Formation, Borneo: Implications for provenance, palaeoweathering, and tectonic setting
Authors: Ahmed Nisar , Siddiqui Numair A. , Ramasamy Nagarajan , Ramkumar Muthuvairavasamy , Jamil Muhammad , Usman Muhammad , Sajid Zulqarnain , Rahman Abdul Hadi Bin Abd
Published: December 2020

The Belaga Formation of the Rajang Group or Rajang Fold and Thrust Belt (Late Cretaceous to Late Eocene) is mostly exposed in Sibu Zone along with some exposures in the Miri Zone of Central Sarawak. This entire turbiditic sequence was believed to have been deposited in a deep marine environment in a basin having an overall passive margin setting, that is, the Rajang Sea. However, the Eocene age‐related stratigraphic record of this group (including Bawang Member) is much more complex, due to the complicated geological and tectonic settings which prevailed during their deposition. Here, we present field observations along with the application of various geochemical proxies and their constraints for the understanding of provenance, palaeo‐weathering, and tectonic evolution of the area during the deposition of Bawang turbidites. Based on field observation, it has been found that this member consists of four main lithofacies, including massive sandstone facies (MSF), thick‐bedded facies (TBF), heterolithic facies (HF), and mud facies (MF). Using geochemical data, chemical weathering indices (CIA and CIW) values and A‐CN‐K plot show that the source area for Bawang turbidites has undergone a moderate to an intense degree of chemical weathering and was influenced by the recycling effect. The slight depletion in sandstones and shales for Cr, Ni, and V values is consistent with the felsic dominated source region; however, La/Sc versus Co/Th and La/Th versus Hf plots show a mixed source (felsic and intermediate volcanic source) with some input of recycled sediments from the older sedimentary to metasedimentary rocks. Various geochemical ratios and discriminant diagrams verify that the Schwaner Mountains and its metamorphic group of rocks were the principal provenances for these sediments, along with some input from West Borneo. The results of the geochemical analysis also show that Bawang turbidite sediments were deposited in a basin associated with an initial active continental margin setting and the basin was shifting towards a passive setting (Late Eocene–Oligocene). The volcanic input in Bawang Member during the Late Eocene also suggests the involvement of some subsequent possible arc setting around the “Bawang subbasin”.
Liver Stiffness by Transient Elastography to Detect Porto‐Sinusoidal Vascular Liver Disease With Portal Hypertension
Authors: Elkrief Laure , Lazareth Marie , Chevret Sylvie , Paradis Valérie , Magaz Marta , Blaise Lorraine , Rubbia‐Brandt Laura , Moga Lucile , Durand François , Payancé Audrey , Plessier Aurélie , Chaffaut Cendrine , Valla Dominique , Malphettes Marion , Diaz Alba , Nault Jean‐Charles , Nahon Pierre , Audureau Etienne , Ratziu Vlad , Castera Laurent , Garcia Pagan Juan‐Carlos , Ganne‐Carrie Nathalie , Rautou Pierre‐Emmanuel ,   the ANRS CO12 CirVir Group
Published: December 2020

Background and Aims

Porto‐sinusoidal vascular liver disease (PSVD) is a rare cause of portal hypertension. PSVD is still often misdiagnosed as cirrhosis, emphasizing the need to improve PSVD diagnosis strategies. Data on liver stiffness measurement using transient elastography (TE‐LSM) in PSVD are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of TE‐LSM to discriminate PSVD from cirrhosis in patients with signs of portal hypertension.

Approach and Results

Retrospective multicenter study comparing TE‐LSM in patients with PSVD, according to Vascular Liver Disease Interest Group criteria, with patients with compensated biopsy‐proven cirrhosis associated with alcohol (n = 117), HCV infection (n = 110), or NAFLD (n = 46). All patients had at least one sign of portal hypertension among gastroesophageal varices, splenomegaly, portosystemic collaterals, history of ascites, or platelet count < 150 × 109/L. The 77 patients with PSVD included in the test cohort had lower median TE‐LSM (7.9 kPa) than the patients with alcohol‐associated, HCV‐related, and NAFLD‐related cirrhosis (33.8, 18.2, and 33.6 kPa, respectively; P < 0.001). When compared with cirrhosis, a cutoff value of 10 kPa had a specificity of 97% for the diagnosis of PSVD with a 85% positive predictive value. A cutoff value of 20 kPa had a sensitivity of 94% for ruling out PSVD with a 97% negative predictive value. Of the patients, 94% were well‐classified. Even better results were obtained in a validation cohort including 78 patients with PSVD.

Conclusions

This study including a total of 155 patients with PSVD and 273 patients with cirrhosis demonstrates that TE‐LSM < 10 kPa strongly suggests PSVD in patients with signs of portal hypertension. Conversely, when TE‐LSM is >20 kPa, PSVD is highly unlikely.
Beaver dams attenuate flow: A multi‐site study
Authors: Puttock Alan , Graham Hugh A. , Ashe Josie , Luscombe David J. , Brazier Richard E.
Published: December 2020

Beavers can profoundly alter riparian environments, most conspicuously by creating dams and wetlands. Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) populations are increasing and it has been suggested they could play a role in the provision of multiple ecosystem services, including natural flood management. Research at different scales, in contrasting ecosystems is required to establish to what extent beavers can impact on flood regimes. Therefore, this study determines whether flow regimes and flow responses to storm events were altered following the building of beaver dams and whether a flow attenuation effect could be significantly attributed to beaver activity. Four sites were monitored where beavers have been reintroduced in England. Continuous monitoring of hydrology, before and after beaver impacts, was undertaken on streams where beavers built sequences of dams. Stream orders ranged from 2nd to 4th, in both agricultural and forest‐dominated catchments. Analysis of >1000 storm events, across four sites showed an overall trend of reduced total stormflow, increased peak rainfall to peak flow lag times and reduced peak flows, all suggesting flow attenuation, following beaver impacts. Additionally, reduced high flow to low flow ratios indicated that flow regimes were overall becoming less “flashy” following beaver reintroduction. Statistical analysis, showed the effect of beaver to be statistically significant in reducing peak flows with estimated overall reductions in peak flows from −0.359 to −0.065 m3 s−1 across sites. Analysis showed spatial and temporal variability in the hydrological response to beaver between sites, depending on the level of impact and seasonality. Critically, the effect of beavers in reducing peak flows persists for the largest storms monitored, showing that even in wet conditions, beaver dams can attenuate average flood flows by up to ca. 60%. This research indicates that beavers could play a role in delivering natural flood management.
Ghrelin ameliorates nonalcoholic steatohepatitis induced by chronic low‐grade inflammation via blockade of Kupffer cell M1 polarization
Authors: Yin Yue , Wang Qin , Qi Meiyuzhen , Zhang Chen , Li Ziru , Zhang Weizhen
Published: December 2020

Whether the stomach influences the progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) remains largely unknown. Ghrelin, a 28‐amino acid gastric hormone, is critical for the regulation of energy metabolism and inflammation. We investigated whether ghrelin affects the progression of NASH. NASH was induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 240 μg/kg/day) in male C57BL/6J mice with high‐fat diet (HFD). Ghrelin (11 nmol/kg/day) was administrated by a subcutaneous mini‐pump. Liver steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis were assessed. Kupffer cells and hepatocytes isolated from wild type, GHSR1a−/− or PPARγ+/− mice were cocultured to determine the cellular and molecular mechanism by which ghrelin ameliorates NASH. A low concentration of LPS activates the Kupffer cells, leading to the development of NASH in mice fed HFD. Ghrelin blocked the progression of NASH induced by LPS via GHSR1a‐mediated attenuation of Kupffer cells M1 polarization. GHSR1a was detected in Kupffer cells isolated from wild‐type mice but not in GHSR1a deficient animals. Upon binding with ghrelin, internalization of GHSR1a occurred. Ghrelin reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α and inducible nitricoxide synthase while increasing Arg1 in Kupffer cells treated with LPS. Ghrelin markedly attenuated the upregulation of lipid accumulation induced by the supernatant of Kupffer cells under both basal and LPS‐treated conditions. Deficiency of PPARγ significantly reduced the effect of LPS on the hepatic steatosis in mice and in cultured hepatocytes. Our studies indicate that the stomach may improve the development of NASH via ghrelin. Ghrelin may serve as a marker and therapeutic target for NASH.
Paternal contributors in recurrent pregnancy loss: Cues from comparative proteome profiling of seminal extracellular vesicles
Authors: Jena Soumya R. , Nayak Jasmine , Kumar Sugandh , Kar Sujata , Dixit Anshuman , Samanta Luna
Published: December 2020

Recent evidence entail paternal factors as plausible contributors in spontaneous recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Seminal extracellular vesicles secreted from cells of male reproductive tract carry regulatory proteins and RNAs. They are proposed to regulate sperm maturation and function while their fusion to endometrial stromal cells helps in decidualization. Nevertheless, the mechanism(s) involved in these processes are poorly understood. This study aims at elucidating the molecular basis of paternal contribution by comparative proteomics (label‐free LC‐MS/MS) of isolated seminal extracellular vesicles from fertile men and partners of patients with RPL (n = 21 per group). Bioinformatics analysis revealed the identified differentially expressed proteins to be involved in DNA replication, recombination and repair, gene expression, cellular assembly and organization, cell death, and survival. Major disease pathways affected were identified as developmental, hereditary, and immunological disorders. Of the three identified hub genes regulating the above disease pathways, two (HNRNPC and HNRNPU) are overexpressed while RUVBL1 is underexpressed along with over expression of HIST1H1C, DDX1, surmising defective chromatin packaging, and histone removal in spermatozoa resulting in improper expression in paternal genes thereby leading to abnormal embryo development. Besides, alteration in GSTP1 expression points oxidative predominance in RPL group. Differential expression of C3, C4a/C4b, CFB, and GDF 15 may be involved in altered maternal immune response to paternal antigens resulting in impaired decidualization.
Variation in Black Bass Angler Characteristics by Stream Size and Accessibility in Oklahoma’s Ozark Highland Streams
Authors: Chapagain Binod P. , Long James M. , Taylor Andrew T. , Joshi Omkar
Published: December 2020

Fishing in streams and rivers is a popular outdoor recreation activity in eastern Oklahoma, where most anglers target black bass (Micropterus) species. Since the early 1990s, when the last assessment of black bass fishing in the region was conducted, broadscale factors such as harvesting behavior, state fishery regulations, and bass population dynamics have changed. In 2018, we conducted creel and fish tagging surveys in three tributaries of Lake Tenkiller (Caney Creek, Baron Fork, and Illinois River) that differed in size and accessibility to provide current estimates of catch, harvest, and effort directed toward black bass. We then related these estimates to angler socioeconomic characteristics. The amount of angler effort was concomitant with stream size and accessibility, being greatest in the largest stream with the most access (Illinois River). However, catch rates were highest in the medium-sized stream (Baron Fork). Harvest rates and exploitation were near zero in all systems. Anglers fishing Caney Creek, the smallest and least accessible stream, were nearly all local, coming from zip codes ~42 km away, with low median household incomes compared to anglers at the other streams who came from a broader array of more distant zip codes and had higher median household incomes. Anglers fishing the smallest stream were also more interested in harvesting fish and having higher creel limits than anglers at the other two systems. In the Oklahoma Ozark Highlands, stream size and accessibility appear to be a significant factor in angler demographics, potentially necessitating different management strategies.
Development of Genetic Baseline Information to Support the Conservation and Management of Wild Brook Trout in North Carolina
Authors: Kazyak David C. , Lubinski Barbara A. , Rash Jacob M. , Johnson Thomas C. , King Timothy L.
Published: December 2020

After centuries of declines, there is growing interest in conserving extant wild populations of Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis and reintroducing Brook Trout populations of native ancestry. A population genetic baseline can enhance conservation outcomes and promote restoration success. Consequently, it is important to document existing patterns of genetic variation across the landscape and translate these data into an approachable format for fisheries managers. We genotyped 9,507 Brook Trout representing 467 wild collections at 12 microsatellite loci to establish a genetic baseline for North Carolina, USA. Rarefied allelic richness (mean = 3.12) and observed heterozygosity (mean = 0.42), which reflect within-population diversity, were low to moderate relative to levels typically observed at higher latitudes. Effective population sizes (Ne) varied widely but were often very low (151 collections had an estimated Ne < 10). Despite decades of intensive stocking across the state, we found little to no evidence of hatchery introgression in most populations. Although genetic variation was significant at a variety of spatial scales (mean pairwise = FST′ 0.73), substantial genetic variation occurred between patches within individual watersheds. Analysis of molecular variance indicated that a substantial portion (28.5%) of the observed genetic variation was attributable to differences among populations, with additional genetic variation among hydrologic unit codes (HUCs; 16.0, 16.6, 12.1, and 9.4% of the overall variation among 12-, 10-, 8-, and 6-digit HUCs, respectively). We discuss a suite of potential applications for this type of genetic data to enhance management outcomes, such as conservation prioritization and selection of source stocks for reintroductions or genetic rescue.
Conjoint cognitive and emotional death‐preparedness states and their changes within cancer patients' last 6 months
Authors: Wen Fur‐Hsing , Chou Wen‐Chi , Hsieh Chia‐Hsun , Chen Jen‐Shi , Chang Wen‐Cheng , Tang Siew Tzuh
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background/Objective

Cognitive prognostic awareness (PA) and emotional preparedness for death are distinct but related concepts that have rarely been investigated conjointly and without considering the dynamic nature of death preparedness. To fill this gap, this secondary‐analysis study identified distinct patterns/states of death preparedness and their changes within cancer patients' last 6 months.

Methods

Distinct death‐preparedness states, determined by conjoint cognitive PA and emotional preparedness for death, as well as their changes between consecutive times were identified and estimated, respectively, by latent transition modeling with hidden Markov modeling among 383 cancer patients within their last 6 months.

Results

Four death‐preparedness states (prevalence) were initially identified: no death preparedness (17.1%), cognitive death preparedness only (23.3%), emotional death preparedness only (39.9%), and sufficient death preparedness (19.7%). Patients in the no‐death‐preparedness state had neither accurate PA nor adequate emotional preparedness for death. The sufficient‐death‐preparedness state was characterized by both accurate PA and adequate emotional preparedness for death. In the cognitive‐ and emotional‐death‐preparedness‐only states, patients were accurately aware of their prognosis and adequately emotionally prepared for their forthcoming death only, respectively. As death approached, state prevalence fluctuated within a narrow range for the no‐ and sufficient‐death‐preparedness states, whereas prevalence of cognitive‐ and emotional‐death‐preparedness‐only states increased and decreased substantially, respectively.

Conclusion

Cancer patients heterogeneously experienced conjoint cognitive PA and emotional preparedness for death, and prevalence of death‐preparedness states changed substantially as death approached. Effective interventions are warranted to cultivate cognitive PA and facilitate emotional death‐preparedness to improve end‐of‐life‐care quality, thereby helping patients achieve a good death.
Effects of male lure dispensers and trap types for monitoring of Ceratitis capitata and Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Manrakhan Aruna , Daneel John‐Henry , Beck Rooikie , Love Claire N , Gilbert Martin J , Virgilio Massimiliano , De Meyer Marc
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Attractant‐based trapping is used in the establishment of pest‐free areas and areas of low pest prevalence for fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). Male lures are commonly used attractants in fruit fly trapping. In this study, the effects of male lure dispensers, traps and combinations of dispensers and traps on monitoring of two fruit fly pests, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) and Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), were investigated in South Africa.

RESULTS

In the male‐lure‐based trapping systems evaluated, trimedlure (TML) for C. capitata and methyl eugenol (ME) for B. dorsalis, the type of dispenser affected catches for both species. Higher catches of B. dorsalis males were recorded in bucket traps baited with a dispenser containing 15 g ME compared with traps baited with dispensers containing either 4 g ME or 2 g ME. Catches of C. capitata males were higher with dispensers containing TML than those with TML plus extender (Capilure®). The type of trap used with TML also influenced catches of C. capitata with higher numbers recorded in yellow Delta trap compared with the Sensus bucket trap.

CONCLUSIONS

Dispensers with higher ME loadings are more effective for monitoring of B. dorsalis. The yellow Delta trap baited with TML (without extender) would be an effective monitoring system for C. capitata. Fruit fly prevalence levels as determined by specific trapping systems should be related to their efficiency in terms of catches of the target pests. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrafast Dynamics of Photocurrents in Surface States of Three‐Dimensional Topological Insulators
Authors: Güdde Jens , Höfer Ulrich
Published: December 2020

Herein, experimental work on the ultrafast electron dynamics in the topological surface state (TSS) of three‐dimensional (3D) topological insulators (TIs) observed with time‐ and angle‐resolved two‐photon photoemission (2PPE) is reviewed. The focus is laid on the generation of ultrafast photocurrents and the time‐resolved observation of their decay. 2PPE not only allows to unambiguously relate the photocurrents to the spin‐polarized electronic surface states. Probing of the asymmetric momentum distribution of the electrons carrying the current makes it possible to study the microscopic scattering processes that govern the unusual electron transport in the time domain. Ultrashort mid‐infrared pump pulses permit not only a direct optical excitation of the TSS in Sb2Te3 but also lead to a strong asymmetry of the TSS population in momentum space. Two‐dimensional band mapping of the TSS shows that this asymmetry is in fact representative of a macroscopic photocurrent, while the helicity‐dependence of the photocurrent is found to be small. The time‐resolved observation of the photocurrent decay reveals a huge mean free path of the electrons in the TSS.
Distinguishability of discrete‐time linear systems
Authors: Silvestre Daniel , Rosa Paulo , Silvestre Carlos
Published: December 2020

This article introduces the notion of absolutely distinguishable discrete‐time dynamic systems, with particular applicability to linear time‐invariant and linear parameter‐varying systems. The motivation for this novel type of distinguishability stems, in particular, from the stability and performance requirements of worst‐case adaptive control methodologies. The main results presented herein show that, in most practical cases, a persistence of excitation type of condition and a minimum number of iterations are required to properly distinguish two dynamic systems. We also demonstrate that the former constraint can be written as a lower bound on the intensity of the exogenous disturbances. The applicability of the developed theory is illustrated with a set of examples.
Semiclassical limit of topological Rényi entropy in 3d Chern-Simons theory
Authors: Dwivedi Siddharth , Singh Vivek Kumar , Roy Abhishek
Published: December 2020

Abstract

We study the multi-boundary entanglement structure of the state associated with the torus link complement S3\Tp,q in the set-up of three-dimensional SU(2)k Chern-Simons theory. The focal point of this work is the asymptotic behavior of the Rényi entropies, including the entanglement entropy, in the semiclassical limit of k → ∞. We present a detailed analysis of several torus links and observe that the entropies converge to a finite value in the semiclassical limit. We further propose that the large k limiting value of the Rényi entropy of torus links of type Tp,pn is the sum of two parts: (i) the universal part which is independent of n, and (ii) the non-universal or the linking part which explicitly depends on the linking number n. Using the analytic techniques, we show that the universal part comprises of Riemann zeta functions and can be written in terms of the partition functions of two-dimensional topological Yang-Mills theory. More precisely, it is equal to the Rényi entropy of certain states prepared in topological 2d Yang-Mills theory with SU(2) gauge group. Further, the universal parts appearing in the large k limits of the entanglement entropy and the minimum Rényi entropy for torus links Tp,pn can be interpreted in terms of the volume of the moduli space of flat connections on certain Riemann surfaces. We also analyze the Rényi entropies of Tp,pn link in the double scaling limit of k → ∞ and n → ∞ and propose that the entropies converge in the double limit as well.
Surface Energy and Boundary Layers for a Chain of Atoms at Low Temperature
Authors: Jansen Sabine , König Wolfgang , Schmidt Bernd , Theil Florian
Published: December 2020

We analyze the surface energy and boundary layers for a chain of atoms at low temperature for an interaction potential of Lennard–Jones type. The pressure (stress) is assumed to be small but positive and bounded away from zero, while the temperature $$\beta ^{-1}$$

β

-
1

goes to zero. Our main results are: (1) As $$\beta \rightarrow \infty $$

β
→
∞

at fixed positive pressure $$p>0$$

p
>
0

, the Gibbs measures $$\mu _\beta $$

μ
β

and $$\nu _\beta $$

ν
β

for infinite chains and semi-infinite chains satisfy path large deviations principles. The rate functions are bulk and surface energy functionals $$\overline{{\mathcal {E}}}_{\mathrm {bulk}}$$

E
¯

bulk

and $$\overline{{\mathcal {E}}}_\mathrm {surf}$$

E
¯

surf

. The minimizer of the surface functional corresponds to zero temperature boundary layers; (2) The surface correction to the Gibbs free energy converges to the zero temperature surface energy, characterized with the help of the minimum of $$\overline{{\mathcal {E}}}_\mathrm {surf}$$

E
¯

surf

; (3) The bulk Gibbs measure and Gibbs free energy can be approximated by their Gaussian counterparts; (4) Bounds on the decay of correlations are provided, some of them uniform in $$\beta $$
β
.
Consequences of Brian Josephson’s Theoretical Discovery
Authors: Braginski A. I.
Published: December 2020

Theoretical discovery of Josephson effects has beneficial consequences for science and economy, and in the future promises more benefits for public health. The strongest impact thus far has the use of Josephson devices and circuits in many areas of science and in geophysical prospecting for minerals. I highlight a few examples of present and future benefits.
An Lp-Comparison, $p\in (1,\infty )$, on the Finite Differences of a Discrete Harmonic Function at the Boundary of a Discrete Box
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh
Published: December 2020

It is well-known that for a harmonic function u defined on the unit ball of the d-dimensional Euclidean space, d ≥ 2, the tangential and normal component of the gradient ∇u on the sphere are comparable by means of the Lp-norms, $p\in (1,\infty )$
p
∈
(
1
,
∞
)
, up to multiplicative constants that depend only on d,p. This paper formulates and proves a discrete analogue of this result for discrete harmonic functions defined on a discrete box on the d-dimensional lattice with multiplicative constants that do not depend on the size of the box.
Global Least Squares Path Modeling: A Full-Information Alternative to Partial Least Squares Path Modeling
Authors: Hwang Heungsun , Cho Gyeongcheol
Published: December 2020

Partial least squares path modeling has been widely used for component-based structural equation modeling, where constructs are represented by weighted composites or components of observed variables. This approach remains a limited-information method that carries out two separate stages sequentially to estimate parameters (component weights, loadings, and path coefficients), indicating that it has no single optimization criterion for estimating the parameters at once. In general, limited-information methods are known to provide less efficient parameter estimates than full-information ones. To address this enduring issue, we propose a full-information method for partial least squares path modeling, termed global least squares path modeling, where a single least squares criterion is consistently minimized via a simple iterative algorithm to estimate all the parameters simultaneously. We evaluate the relative performance of the proposed method through the analyses of simulated and real data. We also show that from algorithmic perspectives, the proposed method can be seen as a block-wise special case of another full-information method for component-based structural equation modeling—generalized structured component analysis.
A Continuous-Time Dynamic Choice Measurement Model for Problem-Solving Process Data
Authors: Chen Yunxiao
Published: December 2020

Problem solving has been recognized as a central skill that today’s students need to thrive and shape their world. As a result, the measurement of problem-solving competency has received much attention in education in recent years. A popular tool for the measurement of problem solving is simulated interactive tasks, which require students to uncover some of the information needed to solve the problem through interactions with a computer-simulated environment. A computer log file records a student’s problem-solving process in details, including his/her actions and the time stamps of these actions. It thus provides rich information for the measurement of students’ problem-solving competency. On the other hand, extracting useful information from log files is a challenging task, due to its complex data structure. In this paper, we show how log file process data can be viewed as a marked point process, based on which we propose a continuous-time dynamic choice model. The proposed model can serve as a measurement model for scaling students along the latent traits of problem-solving competency and action speed, based on data from one or multiple tasks. A real data example is given based on data from Program for International Student Assessment 2012.
A Note on Likelihood Ratio Tests for Models with Latent Variables
Authors: Chen Yunxiao , Moustaki Irini , Zhang Haoran
Published: December 2020

The likelihood ratio test (LRT) is widely used for comparing the relative fit of nested latent variable models. Following Wilks’ theorem, the LRT is conducted by comparing the LRT statistic with its asymptotic distribution under the restricted model, a χ2 distribution with degrees of freedom equal to the difference in the number of free parameters between the two nested models under comparison. For models with latent variables such as factor analysis, structural equation models and random effects models, however, it is often found that the χ2 approximation does not hold. In this note, we show how the regularity conditions of Wilks’ theorem may be violated using three examples of models with latent variables. In addition, a more general theory for LRT is given that provides the correct asymptotic theory for these LRTs. This general theory was first established in Chernoff (J R Stat Soc Ser B (Methodol) 45:404–413, 1954) and discussed in both van der Vaart (Asymptotic statistics, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 2000) and Drton (Ann Stat 37:979–1012, 2009), but it does not seem to have received enough attention. We illustrate this general theory with the three examples.
Progestogen-induced alterations and their ecological relevance in different embryonic and adult behaviours of an invertebrate model species, the great pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis)
Authors: Svigruha Reka , Fodor Istvan , Padisak Judit , Pirger Zsolt
Published: December 2020

The presence of oral contraceptives (basically applying estrogens and/or progestogens) poses a challenge to animals living in aquatic ecosystems and reflects a rapidly growing concern worldwide. However, there is still a lack in knowledge about the behavioural effects induced by progestogens on the non-target species including molluscs. In the present study, environmental progestogen concentrations were summarised. Knowing this data, we exposed a well-established invertebrate model species, the great pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis) to relevant equi-concentrations (1, 10, 100, and 500 ng L−1) of mixtures of four progestogens (progesterone, drospirenone, gestodene, levonorgestrel) for 21 days. Significant alterations were observed in the embryonic development time, heart rate, feeding, and gliding activities of the embryos as well as in the feeding and locomotion activity of the adult specimens. All of the mixtures accelerated the embryonic development time and the gliding activity. Furthermore, the 10, 100, and 500 ng L−1 mixtures increased the heart rate and feeding activity of the embryos. The 10, 100, and 500 ng L−1 mixtures affected the feeding activity as well as the 1, 10, and 100 ng L−1 mixtures influenced the locomotion of the adult specimens. The differences of these adult behaviours showed a biphasic response to the progestogen exposure; however, they changed approximately in the opposite way. In case of feeding activity, this dose-response phenomenon can be identified as a hormesis response. Based on the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the non-reproductive effects of progestogens occurring also in the environment on molluscan species. Our findings contribute to the global understanding of the effects of human progestogens, as these potential disruptors can influence the behavioural activities of non-target aquatic species. Future research should aim to understand the potential mechanisms (e.g., receptors, signal pathways) of progestogens induced behavioural alterations.
Digitale Innovation in der Medizin – die COVID-19-Pandemie als Akzelerator von „digital health“
Authors: Mumm Jan-Niclas , Rodler Severin , Mumm Maja-Lena , Bauer Ricarda M. , Stief Christian G.
Published: December 2020

Die COVID-19-Pandemie hat eine Welle der Digitalisierung in der Medizin ausgelöst. Der Einsatz modernster Technologien wird in den folgenden Jahren Routinediagnostik und Therapieansätze revolutionieren und die Arzt-Patienten-Beziehung positiv beeinflussen. Die Verwendung von AI („artifical intelligence“) und Big Data ist neben den Entwicklungen der mHealth („mobile health“) einer der bedeutendsten Meilensteine im Aufbau eines digitalen und intelligenten Gesundheitssystems.
From short-term surgical missions towards sustainable partnerships. A survey among members of foreign teams
Authors: Botman M. , Hendriks T. C.C. , Keetelaar A. J. , Smit F. T.C. , Terwee C. B. , Hamer M. , Nuwass E. , Jaspers M. E.H. , Winters H. A.H. , Corlew S.
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

An estimated five billion people lack access to safe surgical care across the globe. Traditionally, providing short-term surgical missions has been the main strategy for health professionals from high-income countries to support surgical care in low- and middle-income countries. However, traditional missions have come under criticism because evidence of their sustainable value is lacking, along with any robust documentation and application of recommendations by participants of ongoing surgical missions. Using survey data collection and analysis, this study aims to provide a framework on how to improve the use of visiting surgical teams to strengthen surgical services in resource-poor settings.

Method:

An online survey was conducted among members of foreign teams to collect data on five specific areas: basic characteristics of the mission, main activities. Follow-up and reporting, the local registration process and collaboration with local actors. The survey included 58 respondents from 13 countries, and representing 20 organizations.

Results:

During surgical missions, training activities were considered most impactful, and reporting on outcome/s, along with long-term follow-up was strongly recommended. According to almost all participants (94%), the focus should be on establishing collaborative practices with local actors, and encourage strategic, long-term changes under their leadership.

Conclusion:

Building sustainable partnerships within local healthcare systems is the way forward for foreign surgical parties that aim to improve surgical care in low- and- middle income countries. When foreign help is offered, local stakeholders should be in the lead.

Highlights
Is the service desk the weakest link in IT security?
Authors: Jensen Finn
Published: December 2020

The phishing of email accounts takes place every day, and most people today are aware that they need to protect themselves from cyber criminals. But hackers are constantly trying out new weapons and one of them is their own voice. Can the voice be used as the key to open the doors to your systems through your service desk?

Hackers are constantly trying out new weapons and one of them is their own voice. Can the voice be used as the key to open the doors to your systems through your service desk?

So-called voice phishing, or ‘vishing’ is becoming an increasingly common way for attackers to make their way through your outer defences. And it's not just the service desk at risk. What's needed is a common framework for identity verification, to provide a centralised and efficient way of establishing callers’ identities, argues Finn Jensen of FastPassCorp.
Perspectives for development of ice drilling technology: continuation of the discussion
Authors: Talalay P. G. , Hong J.
Published: December 2020

Recently, innovations in ice drilling have yielded considerable improvements to existing drilling techniques, as well as innovative drilling technologies that can be used in new types of applications. However, some specific challenges have to be addressed for improving existing drilling methods and developing new ones: (1) combination and unification of different drilling systems; (2) facilitating ice core breaking; (3) improving existing systems and developing new rapid-access ice drilling systems; (4) reliable elimination of ice hydraulic fracturing problems; (5) developing new environment-friendly methods of drilling in the sub-glacial lake sediments; and (6) design of unconventional ice drilling systems. Possible solutions to these problems are presented herein.
The Climate Change Dimension of Business and Human Rights: The Gradual Consolidation of a Concept of ‘Climate Due Diligence’
Authors: MACCHI Chiara
Published: December 2020

This article makes the case for a ‘holistic’ approach to human rights due diligence, arguing that such a standard must be interpreted in the light of mutually reinforcing principles of environmental law, climate law and human rights law. Through a review of emerging climate change-related litigation, it shows how a concept of ‘climate due diligence’ is gradually consolidating. Building on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the article explores climate due diligence both as a standard of conduct and as a business process, presenting its main features. It argues that corporations should integrate climate due diligence into their processes and policies to be best prepared for likely regulatory and judicial developments, such as the upcoming European Union’s regulation on human rights and environmental due diligence.
Simulating the effects of operating room staff movement and door opening policies on microbial load
Authors: Taaffe Kevin M. , Allen Robert W. , Fredendall Lawrence D. , Shehan Marisa , Stachnik Mary Grace , Smith Taliyah , Carbonell Alfredo M. , Glover Emily , Fiore Alexis
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To identify factors that increase the microbial load in the operating room (OR) and recommend solutions to minimize the effect of these factors.

Design:

Observation and sampling study.

Setting:

Academic health center, public hospitals.

Methods:

We analyzed 4 videotaped orthopedic surgeries (15 hours in total) for door openings and staff movement. The data were translated into a script denoting a representative frequency and location of movements for each OR team member. These activities were then simulated for 30 minutes per trial in a functional operating room by the researchers re-enacting OR staff-member roles, while collecting bacteria and fungi using settle plates. To test the hypotheses on the influence of activity on microbial load, an experimental design was created in which each factor was tested at higher (and lower) than normal activity settings for a 30-minute period. These trials were conducted in 2 phases.

Results:

The frequency of door opening did not independently affect the microbial load in the OR. However, a longer duration and greater width of door opening led to increased microbial load in the OR. Increased staff movement also increased the microbial load. There was a significantly higher microbial load on the floor than at waist level.

Conclusions:

Movement of staff and the duration and width of door opening definitely affects the OR microbial load. However, further investigation is needed to determine how the number of staff affects the microbial load and how to reduce the microbial load at the surgical table.