bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing environmental sustainability through corporate governance: the merger and acquisition perspective
Authors: Zheng Dandan , Yuan Zhipan , Ding Shusheng , Cui Tianxiang
Published: November 2021

Background

Environmental sustainability may be perceived as conflicting with economic development. Economic activities such as mergers and acquisitions can contribute to resource allocation optimization, where corporate governance plays an important role in advancing environmental sustainability. Our study broadens the investigation of whether mergers and acquisitions are helpful for sustainable environmental development. We attempt to reveal the mechanism by which mergers and acquisitions affect sustainable development: namely, through corporate governance.

Results

By employing panel data for Chinese listed companies, we reveal that mergers and acquisitions have a significant positive influence on environmental sustainability. In particular, the study documents a mediating effect of corporate governance. We argue that mergers and acquisitions can trigger company reorganizations and thus optimize firm structure, resulting in better corporate governance. This effect, in turn, can enhance company management in several aspects, including sustainable environmental development. Therefore, we conclude that the government can improve corporate governance by promoting board reorganizations via mergers and acquisitions, leading to better environmental sustainability.

Conclusions

This paper can inspire future research avenues by shedding light on how economic development and environment sustainability can be harmonized through better corporate governance. It can also deliver research implications on corporate governance studies through mergers and acquisitions.
Multiparametric prostate MRI quality assessment using a semi-automated PI-QUAL software program
Authors: Giganti Francesco , Lindner Sydney , Piper Jonathan W. , Kasivisvanathan Veeru , Emberton Mark , Moore Caroline M. , Allen Clare
Published: November 2021

The technical requirements for the acquisition of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of the prostate have been clearly outlined in the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) guidelines, but there is still huge variability in image quality among centres across the world. It has been difficult to quantify what constitutes a good-quality image, and a first attempt to address this matter has been the publication of the Prostate Imaging Quality (PI-QUAL) score and its dedicated scoring sheet. This score includes the assessment of technical parameters that can be obtained from the DICOM files along with a visual evaluation of certain features on prostate MRI (e.g., anatomical structures). We retrospectively analysed the image quality of 10 scans from different vendors and magnets using a semiautomated dedicated PI-QUAL software program and compared the time needed for assessing image quality using two methods (semiautomated assessment versus manual filling of the scoring sheet). This semiautomated software is able to assess the technical parameters automatically, but the visual assessment is still performed by the radiologist. There was a significant reduction in the reporting time of prostate mpMRI quality according to PI-QUAL using the dedicated software program compared to manual filling (5′54″ versus 7′59″; p = 0.005). A semiautomated PI-QUAL software program allows the radiologist to assess the technical details related to the image quality of prostate mpMRI in a quick and reliable manner, allowing clinicians to have more confidence that the quality of mpMRI of the prostate is sufficient to determine patient care.
Project-based learning in science-teacher pedagogical practicum: the role of emotional experiences in building preservice teachers’ competencies
Authors: Tsybulsky Dina , Muchnik-Rozanov Yulia
Published: November 2021

The study investigated preservice teachers’ (PST) emotional experiences, teaching competencies, and the connection between the two over the course of a pedagogical practicum conducted using a project-based learning (PBL) approach. The study addressed the following research questions: (a) Which emotional experiences accompanied PSTs’ PBL-based pedagogical practicum?

(b) Of the competencies for implementing PBL that the PSTs developed during the practicum, which did they consider using as part of their classroom practices in the future? (c) Is there a connection between PSTs’ emotional experiences and their self-reported competencies for implementing PBL in their classroom practices? Participants were 16 preservice teachers in their first year in the teacher-education program for teaching sciences. Data were collected from reflective reports, submitted at the end of the first and second semesters, thereby addressing the middle and final stages of the PBL-based practicum, and were analyzed using three complementary methodologies: content, linguistic, and statistical analyses. The findings indicate that, as portrayed by the participants, PSTs’ immersion in the PBL-based practicum was accompanied by both positive and negative emotional experiences. While immersed in the PBL practicum, the PSTs described themselves as developing various teaching competencies for implementing PBL in the classroom. It was also found that the positive emotional experiences outnumbered the negative, and this predominance was positively linked to the development of the PSTs’ competencies.
Targeting cardiomyocyte proliferation as a key approach of promoting heart repair after injury
Authors: Li Shuainan , Ma Wenya , Cai Benzhi
Published: November 2021

Cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction (MI) is a major contributor to human mortality and morbidity. The mammalian adult heart almost loses its plasticity to appreciably regenerate new cardiomyocytes after injuries, such as MI and heart failure. The neonatal heart exhibits robust proliferative capacity when exposed to varying forms of myocardial damage. The ability of the neonatal heart to repair the injury and prevent pathological left ventricular remodeling leads to preserved or improved cardiac function. Therefore, promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation after injuries to reinitiate the process of cardiomyocyte regeneration, and suppress heart failure and other serious cardiovascular problems have become the primary goal of many researchers. Here, we review recent studies in this field and summarize the factors that act upon the proliferation of cardiomyocytes and cardiac repair after injury and discuss the new possibilities for potential clinical treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases.
Repetitive accumulation of interstitial cells generates the branched structure of Cladonema medusa tentacles
Authors: Hou Shiting , Zhu Jianrong , Shibata Saki , Nakamoto Ayaki , Kumano Gaku
Published: November 2021

The shaping of tissues and organs in many animals relies on interactions between the epithelial cell layer and its underlying mesoderm-derived tissues. Inductive signals, such as receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling emanating from mesoderm, act on cells of the epithelium to initiate three-dimensional changes. However, how tissues are shaped in a diploblastic animal with no mesoderm remains largely unknown. In this study, the jellyfish Cladonema pacificum was used to investigate branch formation. The tentacles on its medusa stage undergo branching, which increases the epithelial surface area available for carrying nematocytes, thereby maximizing prey capture. Pharmacological and cellular analyses of the branching process suggest a two-step model for tentacle branch formation, in which mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase signaling accumulates interstitial cells in the future branch-forming region, and fibroblast growth factor signaling regulates branch elongation. This study highlights an essential role for these pluripotent stem cells in the tissue-shaping morphogenesis of a diploblastic animal. In addition, it identifies a mechanism involving RTK signaling and cell proliferative activity at the branch tip for branching morphogenesis that is apparently conserved across the animal kingdom.
Endocytosis mediated by an atypical CUBAM complex modulates slit diaphragm dynamics in nephrocytes
Authors: Atienza-Manuel Alexandra , Castillo-Mancho Vicente , De Renzis Stefano , Culi Joaquim , Ruiz-Gómez Mar
Published: November 2021

The vertebrate endocytic receptor CUBAM, consisting of three cubilin monomers complexed with a single amnionless molecule, plays a major role in protein reabsorption in the renal proximal tubule. Here, we show that Drosophila CUBAM is a tripartite complex composed of Amnionless and two cubilin paralogues, Cubilin and Cubilin2, and that it is required for nephrocyte slit diaphragm (SD) dynamics. Loss of CUBAM-mediated endocytosis induces dramatic morphological changes in nephrocytes and promotes enlarged ingressions of the external membrane and SD mislocalisation. These phenotypes result in part from an imbalance between endocytosis, which is strongly impaired in CUBAM mutants, and exocytosis in these highly active cells. Of note, rescuing receptor-mediated endocytosis by Megalin/LRP2 or Rab5 expression only partially restores SD positioning in CUBAM mutants, suggesting a specific requirement of CUBAM in SD degradation and/or recycling. This finding and the reported expression of CUBAM in podocytes suggest a possible unexpected conserved role for this endocytic receptor in vertebrate SD remodelling.
Local cone beam CT: how did it all start?
Authors: Arai Yoshinori
Published: November 2021

The mathematical theory of CT was proposed by J. Radon in 1917. It was declared that the projection of whole data sets was needed to reconstruct CT images. Therefore, according to J. Radon’s original theory, local cone beam CT (local CBCT) was impossible to achieve.

In this paper, I discuss how local CBCT was discovered and developed. Its development required many technical elements, such as a turntable and X-ray television system, for basic experiments such as those on which narrow collimation theory and multifunctional panoramic tomography were based. These experiments endured many failures during development.

Now, local CBCT is extremely popular in dental practice because local CBCT has a low radiation dose and high resolution. This paper introduces the technical elements and outlines the important stages during the development of local CBCT in the 1990s.
Επίδραση της διατροφής και ΄άλλων παραγόντων σε χαρακτηριστικούς μικροοργανισμούς της χλωρίδας του στόματος
Authors: Μελισσάρη Αλεξάνδρα
Published: November 2021

Η σημασία του στοματικού μικροβιώματος συνδέεται αυστηρά με την παγκόσμια ανθρώπινη υγεία. Όταν εμφανίζεται ανισορροπία του στοματικού μικροβιώματος που χαρακτηρίζεται από μεταβολές στη βακτηριακή σύνθεση και ποικιλομορφία, διευθετείται μια κατάσταση που ονομάζεται δυσβίωση. Υπάρχει μια αυξανόμενη ποσότητα επιστημονικών στοιχείων ότι αυτή η κατάσταση σχετίζεται με την τερηδόνα, την ουλίτιδα και την περιοδοντίτιδα. Η διατροφή φαίνεται να είναι βασικός παράγοντας για τον παράγοντα υγείας του στόματος και των δοντιών που επηρεάζει το μικροβίωμα της στοματικής κοιλότητας. Σε μια προσπάθεια αποσαφήνισης του ρόλου της διατροφής, καθώς και άλλων εμπλεκόμενων παραγόντων κινδύνου που προδιαθέτουν για στοματική νόσο, στην παρούσα μελέτη καταγράψαμε αστικές περιοχές της βορειοανατολικής Ελλάδας. Οι κοινωνικο-δημογραφικές, καθώς και οι υγιεινές και διατροφικές συνήθειες μιας ομάδας στόχου που αποτελείται από ενήλικες και παιδιά εισήχθησαν στη μελέτη μας μέσω μιας έρευνας. Οι άνθρωποι της περιοχής μελέτης ενδιαφέρονται λιγότερο για προληπτικές και άλλες οδοντιατρικές θεραπείες. Τα παιδιά και οι ενήλικες ενδιαφέρονται λιγότερο για την υγιεινή διατροφή, ωστόσο, συχνά καταναλώνουν ζαχαρούχα τρόφιμα και συχνά έξω από το κύριο γεύμα τους. Είναι αξιοσημείωτο, η εν μέρει μετάβαση στο πρότυπο της μεσογειακής διατροφής και λιγότερο στο πρότυπο των δυτικών τύπων τροφίμων. Σημαντικό είναι να αυξηθεί η ευαισθητοποίηση τόσο των παιδιών όσο και των ενηλίκων, μέσω στρατηγικών εκστρατειών και εκπαίδευσης για τη στοματική υγεία, τη στοματική υγιεινή και τα οφέλη μιας ισορροπημένης διατροφής.
Investigation of Reflection from Curved Mirrors on a Plane in the Wolfram Mathematica
Authors: Suncov O. , Zhikharev L.
Published: November 2021

In this article, the study of the geometry of the flat shapes reflection from curved lines located in the plane of these shapes continues. The paper is devoted to a more detailed description of reflection from the analytical geometry point of view. In addition, the range of proposed tasks has been significantly expanded.

An algorithm for reflecting zero-dimensional and one-dimensional objects from plane curves is compiled, and corresponding illustrations are given.

For the first time, the authors have obtained equations that allow us to construct reflections of a point from second-order curves: a circle, an ellipse, a parabola and a hyperbola, as well as from high-order curves: Bernoulli lemniscates and cardioids [17], [24], [13], [25], [23], [22]. In addition, equations for the reflection results of one-dimensional objects: a segment and a circle, from the same plane curves were obtained. Similar studies are being conducted in the works [2], [1], [32], [28], [3], [4]. All equations are accompanied by blueprints of special cases of reflections obtained using the Wolfram Mathematica mathematical package [18], [19]. In addition, the application contains the source codes, which gives the reader to configure the reflection parameters themselves on condition having access this program, as well as visually assess the change in the reflection pattern when changing these parameters for various types of flat mirrors.

This article demonstrates the possibilities that the obtained equations provide, and the prospects for further work, which consist in obtaining new equations of objects reflected from other flat mirrors.
La investigación de la comunicación en España desde la Economía Política de la Comunicación
Authors: Gómez-Escalonilla Gloria
Published: November 2021

Se presentan los resultados de un estudio que analiza tesis doctorales, proyectos financiados, comunicaciones presentadas al principal congreso científico y artículos publicados en las revistas indexadas realizados desde la perspectiva de la Economía Política de la Comunicación en los últimos diez años, concluyendo que es una línea de investigación consolidada en la investigación en comunicación que aborda especialmente la estructura y la incidencia del impacto digital en el audiovisual español.
Fotografía y contracultura en Estados Unidos y España: orígenes e institucionalización. Particularidades en la obra de Alberto García-Alix
Authors: Blanco Manuel
Published: November 2021

En la pujante sociedad americana de los años 60 nació la contracultura como un movimiento heterogéneo y difícilmente encasillable en lo ideológico. Conllevó una visión muy diferente de la estética, la música y prácticamente todas las ramas imaginables de arte. En concreto nos centraremos en la fotografía, que, por su poco prestigio artístico y poca importancia periodística, se convirtió en el vehículo idóneo para estos movimientos en los márgenes. En el caso español, además, la llegada de la contracultura coincidió con el ocaso del franquismo, lo que provocó particularidades dentro de la contracultura como la llamada movida madrileña. Sin embargo, esta, a su vez, presenta divergencias dentro de sus propios integrantes:aunque casi todos sufrieron un profundo proceso de institucionalización, no todos los fotógrafos considerados contraculturales hicieron efectivamente fotografía contracultural. García-Alix, icono de la contracultura, es el ejemplo: no comparte las características estéticas de los fotógrafos de la movida, sino que sus referentes se encuentran en el documentalismo clásico norteamericano y centroeuropeo. Eso sí, lo que documentará será los ambientes y los personajes de la contracultura.
Communication effectiveness in social networks of leading universities
Authors: Ladogina Anastasiya , Samoylenko Irina , Golovina Vera , Razina Natalia , Petushkova Elena
Published: November 2021

The article presents the results of communication effectiveness analysis in social networks of leading universities with strong economic departments. The study was carried out using the textual information analysis i.e. content, links, posts, comments, tags, etc.; multimedia i.e. photos, videos, audio, etc., and the ontology method, which estimated the social networks parameters like the number of subscribers, average path length, etc. The study showed that the main platform for international higher education institutions is Facebook; Instagram is actively developing, and then comes YouTube. The number of publications does not directly affect the number of subscribers, in contrast to the number of students. The high frequency of posts does not lead to subscribers increase. There is no single strategy for universities social network development. The use of informal communication, which encourages action, significantly increases the audience and its involvement; but is not used by all universities, because it might contradict with the university’s image. It should be noted that good design, the use of professional photos and videos,has its impact on potential audience.
Evolución del periodismo cinematográfico en la televisión española: el paradigma de RTVE (2005-2018)
Authors: Tello Díaz Lucía
Published: November 2021

El periodismo cinematográfico televisivo ha disminuido en las últimas décadas, a pesar de la multiplicación de canales. Esto sucede en el conjunto de los canales generalistas españoles salvo los canales del ente público RTVE, donde este tipo de contenidos se resisten a la extinción. En el resto de canales, el periodismo cinematográfico ha derivado en la publicitación de las cintas que producen sus propios conglomerados mediáticos.
Course Scheduling Under Sudden Scarcity: Applications to Pandemic Planning
Authors: Barnhart Cynthia , Bertsimas Dimitris , Delarue Arthur , Yan Julia
Published: November 2021

Problem definition: Physical distancing requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic have dramatically reduced the effective capacity of university campuses. Under these conditions, we examine how to make the most of newly scarce resources in the related problems of curriculum planning and course timetabling. Academic/practical relevance: We propose a unified model for university course scheduling problems under a two-stage framework and draw parallels between component problems while showing how to accommodate individual specifics. During the pandemic, our models were critical to measuring the impact of several innovative proposals, including expanding the academic calendar, teaching across multiple rooms, and rotating student attendance through the week and school year. Methodology: We use integer optimization combined with enrollment data from thousands of past students. Our models scale to thousands of individual students enrolled in hundreds of courses. Results: We projected that if Massachusetts Institute of Technology moved from its usual two-semester calendar to a three-semester calendar, with each student attending two semesters in person, more than 90% of student course demand could be satisfied on campus without increasing faculty workloads. For the Sloan School of Management, we produced a new schedule that was implemented in fall 2020. The schedule allowed half of Sloan courses to include an in-person component while adhering to safety guidelines. Despite a fourfold reduction in classroom capacity, it afforded two thirds of Sloan students the opportunity for in-person learning in at least half their courses. Managerial implications: Integer optimization can enable decision making at a large scale in a domain that is usually managed manually by university administrators. Our models, although inspired by the pandemic, are generic and could apply to any scheduling problem under severe capacity constraints.
A Matter of Transition: Authenticity Judgments and Attracting Employees to Hybridized Organizations
Authors: Radoynovska Nevena , Ruttan Rachel
Published: November 2021

Category-spanning organizations have been shown to face a number of penalties compared with organizations occupying a single category. The assumption seems to be, however, that organizations spanning the same categories will be evaluated similarly. Yet, this is not always the case. We know far less about why evaluations may differ within category-spanners, largely due to existing studies’ focus on comparing single-category to category-spanning organizations in equilibrium states at a fixed point in time. Instead, this paper investigates audience judgments of organizations as they transition from single to multiple categories. We rely on the empirical setting of social-commercial hybrids—an intriguing context in which to explore category-spanning across market and nonmarket domains associated with distinct values, norms, and expectations. In a series of two experimental studies, we investigate how hybridization affects audience judgments of organizational authenticity and the ability to attract potential employees. We find that across organizational fields associated with nonprofit (communal) and for-profit (market exchange) norms, hybridization—more than hybridity itself—triggers audience cynicism and leads to decreased judgments of authenticity. However, the penalties for hybridizing are only observed when organizations also move away from field-level profit-status norms. The findings contribute to the category-spanning and authenticity literatures by integrating social psychological and organizational theory perspectives to offer a dynamic view of spanning beyond for-profit, market contexts. They also offer empirical support for the theorized multidirectionality of mission drift in hybrid organizations, while suggesting that drifting need not always be detrimental.

History: This paper has been accepted for the Organization Science Special Issue on Experiments in Organizational Theory.

Supplemental Material: Supplemental online materials are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2021.1495 .
Service Delivery Strategies for Alleviating Pandemic Suffering While Maintaining Profitability
Authors: Palsule-Desai Omkar , Vaze Vikrant , Li Gang , Gavirneni Srinagesh
Published: November 2021

The postpandemic world requires a renewed focus from service providers on ensuring that all customer segments receive the essential services (food, healthcare, housing, education, etc.) that they need. Philanthropic service providers are unable to cope with the increased demand caused by the social, economic, and operational challenges induced by the pandemic. For-profit service providers offering no-pay services to customers, allowing them to self-select a service option, is becoming a popular strategy in various settings. Obtaining insights into how to efficiently balance societal and financial goals is critical for a for-profit service provider. We develop and analyze a quantitative model of customer utilities, vertically differentiated product assortment, pricing, and market size to understand how service providers can effectively use customer segmentation and serve the poor in the lowest economic strata. We identify conditions under which designing the service delivery to be accessible to the poor can simultaneously benefit the for-profit service provider, customers, and the entire society. Interestingly, we observe that the increasing customer valuation of the no-pay option because of a superior quality service offered by a service provider need not benefit customers. Our work provides a framework to obtain operational, economic, and strategic insights into socially responsible service delivery strategies.
Impact of non-linear distortion on learning based approaches for depth estimation
Authors: Buquet Julie , Zhang Jinsong , Roulet Patrice , Thibault Simon , Lalonde Jean-François
Published: November 2021

In this work, we evaluate the impact of non-linear distortion on learning based approaches for depth estimation. We use real wide angle images with locally increased resolutions to see how it compares with perspective images.
Raman Spectroscopy of Common Fertilizers in Bulk and in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Oneill Andrew , Kane Tim
Published: November 2021

Industrial agriculture, while necessary to meet current food production needs, can have damaging effects on the environment and local water supply. For monitoring purposes, Raman spectra of common fertilizers in solution are measured and presented.
Electromagnetic wave beam manipulator based on an all-dielectric THz coding metasurface
Authors: Liu Jinrong , Xiao Lihua , Li Xia , Xiao Binggang
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we proposed an all-dielectric THz coding metasurface that can effectively manipulate electromagnetic waves. This structure was composed of sub-wavelength coding units with different reflection phases. The encoding unit is composed of a rectangular base with a cross dielectric column. Different encodings were designed by changing the thickness of the X arm of the dielectric column. We designed a variety of coding modes and implemented the modulation of the number of far-field reflection beams and the angle of reflection direction at 0.85 THz by 1- and 2-bit coding. Our theoretical calculations and numerical simulations of the structure suggested that the far-field scattering obtained by full-wave simulation matched the theoretical calculation when the incident direction of electromagnetic wave was perpendicular to the metasurface. We chose all-dielectric materials to design the coding unit due to the low cost, strong corrosion resistance, and low internal electromagnetic loss. As a result, the all-dielectric materials avoided the serious internal loss of metal materials and demonstrated the flexibility to regulate the reflected beam in the THz band to realize abnormal refraction and beam splitting.
Blood identification at the single-cell level based on a combination of laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy and machine learning
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Liu Yiming , Lu Weilai , Fu Yu Vincent , Zhou Zhehai
Published: November 2021

Laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) combines optical tweezers
technology and Raman spectroscopy to obtain biomolecular compositional
information from a single cell without invasion or destruction, so it
can be used to “fingerprint” substances to characterize
numerous types of biological cell samples. In the current study, LTRS
was combined with two machine learning algorithms, principal component
analysis (PCA)-linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and random forest,
to achieve high-precision multi-species blood classification at the
single-cell level. The accuracies of the two classification models
were 96.60% and 96.84%, respectively. Meanwhile,
compared with PCA-LDA and other classification algorithms, the random
forest algorithm is proved to have significant advantages, which can
directly explain the importance of spectral features at the molecular
level.
Spatial Resolution of the MIGHTI Thermospheric Wind Measurements and Implications on Wind Shear Measurements
Authors: Englert Christoph R. , Marr Kenneth D. , Harlander John M. , Harding Brian J.
Published: November 2021

Lower thermospheric wind shears are a main driver for sporadic-E in the ionosphere. This presentation will review the spatial resolution of MIGHTI E-region neutral wind observations, implications of the wind shear measurements and sample observations.
CAIRT - the Changing-Atmosphere Infra-Red Tomography Explorer
Authors: Friedl-Vallon Felix , Sinnhuber Björn-Martin , Preusse Peter , Chipperfield Martyn , Errera Quentin , Funke Bernd , Godin-Beekmann Sophie , Comas Maya Garcia , Höpfner Michael , Puertas Manuel López , Peuch Vincent-Henri , Plöger Felix , Polichtchouk Inna , Raspollini Piera , Riel Stefanie , Riese Martin , Sinnhuber Miriam , Stiller Gabi , Ungermann Jörn , von Clarmann Thomas , Walker Kaley
Published: November 2021

CAIRT, a candidate for ESA’s Earth Explorer 11 mission, will observe the Earth’s limb with an imaging Fourier-transform spectrometer. It will provide global observations of ozone, temperature, water vapour and key halogen and nitrogen compounds.
Colloidal quantum dots as single-photon sources for photonic integrated circuits
Authors: Eich Alexander , Spiekermann Tobias C. , Sommer Lisa , Gehring Helge , Rasmus Julian B. , Pernice Wolfram H. P. , Schuck Carsten
Published: November 2021

We interface individual colloidal quantum dots, which are processed in solution on the chip-scale, with photonic integrated circuits and observe single-photon emission into a nanophotonic waveguide upon excitation from a separate waveguide channel.
Design of a broadband infrared absorber based on multiple layers of black phosphorus nanoribbons
Authors: Khalilzadeh Hamed , Habibzadeh-Sharif Amir , Anvarhaghighi Niloufar
Published: November 2021

A polarization-sensitive broadband plasmonic absorber consists of multiple black phosphorus (BP)/dielectric layers stacking on an Ag reflector has been proposed theoretically and demonstrated numerically for infrared (IR) regime. The optimum geometrical parameters have been achieved by parametric sweep analyses with regard to the fabrication considerations and miniaturization of the absorber structure. So a high absorption (above 85%) with relatively broad bandwidth of 5.24 µm corresponding to the relative bandwidth of 42.12% has been achieved for the designed periodic structure with optimum unit cell dimensions of

0.5

µ

m

×

1.755

µ

m

. The electromagnetic loss in the BP material is the foundation of absorption performance in the designed absorber. The proposed anisotropic broadband IR absorber may have great potential in many areas of photonics.
Optical Access Networks for Tactile Internet Services
Authors: Chung HwanSeok , Lee Han Hyub , Kim KwangOk , Doo Kyung-Hwan , Ra YongWook , Park ChanSung
Published: November 2021

We review optical access technologies for tactile internet accommodating bandwidth intensive as well as low-latency services such as smart factory, remote robot control and AR/VR. Recent feasibility demonstration of tactile internet testbed is also introduced.
CycleGAN for Reflection and Aberration Artifact Removal in Quantitative Phase Images of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Yong Zixin , Lee Elizabeth , Baranski Maciej , Tucker-Kellogg Lisa , Barbastathis George
Published: November 2021

We demonstrate artifact removal in quantitative phase images of cells using a cycle-consistent generative adversarial network (cycleGAN). This method relaxes the requirement on the optical quality of the imaging vessel even without having paired data.
A Simple Optical Fiber Sensor for Metal Defect Detection
Authors: Zhang Hong , Dai Zhiyong , Wu Hongliang , Li Baoji , Xiang Jing
Published: November 2021

Based on the optical Faraday effect, a small fiber sensor is fabricated to detect the ferromagnetic defect. Experimental result shows its minimum diameter can reach 3 mm and its depth can reach 5%*t.(/p)(p)As we all know, if iron products are exposed to the air or humid environment, they have a strong tendency to be corroded. Many leakage accidents caused by corrosion have been occurred in the oil pipeline and nature gas pipeline, which bring about a series of problems such as environmental pollution and resource waste. Therefore, it is important to detect the iron pipes and vessels to prevent accidents. At present, there are many papers about applying optical methods to test metal defects. For example, optical variable imaging method [1], infrared optical imaging method[2], optical interference method[3], photonic crystal fiber sensor method [4], fiber Bragg grating (FBG)[5], etc. However, there are many shortcomings with these optical methods, including large size, difficult fabrication and signal affected by environmental weather. In this paper, based on the theory of magnetic flux leakage on ferromagnetic metal and the optical Faraday effect, the information of iron defects can be obtained by detecting the change of polarization state of incident light. Compared with other methods, it has incomparable advantages due to the optical signal without electromagnetic and temperature interference.
Thermal Analysis of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ in Plasmonic Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Escobar B. Perez , Patiño G. , Adriano R.
Published: November 2021

This paper analyzed simulated thermal effects on healthy tissues and around a ductal carcinoma in situ exposed to photothermal therapy. We found an optimal dose range for cancer cells necrosis.
NIR dye antibody conjugates for molecular photoacoustic imaging and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Mallidi Srivalleesha , Saad Mohammad A. , Pawle Robert , Xavierselvan Marvin , Takiff Larry , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: November 2021

Here we present a dual function antibody conjugate with a photosensitizer (or a fluorophore) and a napthalocyanine dye conjugated on Cetuximab targeted towards Epidermal growth factor receptor. The in vitro therapeutic efficacy and in vivo molecular photoacoustic imaging capabilities of the conjugate are demonstrated in murine oral cancer models.
Non-Kolmogorov Turbulence: Does it matter?
Authors: Beason Melissa
Published: November 2021

We investigate the impact of non-Kolmogorov turbulence on a propagating beam by examining the resulting Rytov variance, Fried parameter, isoplanatic angle and beam radius with particular consideration of the generalized structure function parameter.
Transforming the Digital Coherent Receiver into a Test and Measurement Equipment using Machine Learning
Authors: Varughese Siddharth , Lippiatt Daniel , Cho Hyung Joon , Ralph Stephen E.
Published: November 2021

We demonstrate the use of various machine learning techniques to extract unique features from the digital coherent receiver and enable optical performance monitoring and optical network fault management in future optical communication systems.
Proteomic characterization of GSK3β knockout shows altered cell adhesion and metabolic pathway utilisation in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Bowler-Barnett Emily , Martinez-Garcia Francisco D. , Sherwood Matthew , Aleidan Ahood , John Steve , Weston Sara , Wang Yihua , Divecha Nullin , Skipp Paul , Ewing Rob M.
Published: November 2021

Glycogen-specific kinase (GSK3β) is an integral regulator of the Wnt signalling pathway as well as many other diverse signalling pathways and processes. Dys-regulation of GSK3β is implicated in many different pathologies, including neurodegenerative disorders as well as many different tumour types. In the context of tumour development, GSK3β has been shown to play both oncogenic and tumour suppressor roles, depending upon tissue, signalling environment or disease progression. Although multiple substrates of the GSK3β kinase have been identified, the wider protein networks within which GSK3β participates are not well known, and the consequences of these interactions not well understood. In this study, LC-MS/MS expression analysis was performed using knockout GSK3β colorectal cancer cells and isogenic controls in colorectal cancer cell lines carrying dominant stabilizing mutations of β-catenin. Consistent with the role of GSK3β, we found that β-catenin levels and canonical Wnt activity are unaffected by knockout of GSK3β and therefore used this knockout cell model to identify other processes in which GSK3β is implicated. Quantitative proteomic analysis revealed perturbation of proteins involved in cell-cell adhesion, and we characterized the phenotype and altered proteomic profiles associated with this. We also characterized the perturbation of metabolic pathways resulting from GSK3β knockout and identified defects in glycogen metabolism. In summary, using a precision colorectal cancer cell-line knockout model with constitutively activated β-catenin we identified several of the diverse pathways and processes associated with GSK3β function.
A novel system for classifying tooth root phenotypes
Authors: Gellis Jason , Foley Robert
Published: November 2021

Human root and canal number and morphology are highly variable, and internal root canal form and count does not necessarily co-vary directly with external morphology. While several typologies and classifications have been developed to address individual components of teeth, there is a need for a comprehensive system, that captures internal and external root features across all teeth. Using CT scans, the external and internal root morphologies of a global sample of humans are analysed (n = 945). From this analysis a method of classification that captures external and internal root morphology in a way that is intuitive, reproducible, and defines the human phenotypic set is developed. Results provide a robust definition of modern human tooth root phenotypic diversity. The method is modular in nature, allowing for incorporation of past and future classification systems. Additionally, it provides a basis for analysing hominin root morphology in evolutionary, ecological, genetic, and developmental contexts.
Assess the feasibility of flipped classroom pedagogy in undergraduate nursing education in Sri Lanka: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Youhasan Punithalingam , Chen Yan , Lyndon Mataroria , Henning Marcus A.
Published: November 2021

Background

The nursing education system has evolved with an increased emphasis on student-centred education, such as implementing flipped classroom pedagogy. Given the promising positive educational outcomes, the trend of using flipped classroom pedagogy has become increasingly popular in undergraduate nursing education. However, little is known about how these flipped classroom methods impact on nursing educational practices in limited-resource settings situated in South Asia.

Objective

To assess the feasibility of implementing flipped classroom pedagogy in undergraduate nursing education from the nursing students’ perspective.

Methods

This mixed-methods study employed a quantitative survey and six focus group discussions conducted in three state universities in Sri Lanka. The Nursing Students’ Readiness for Flipped Classroom (NSR-FC) questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data. The semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted by using 18 reflective and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis of variance methods were employed when analysing quantitative data. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used to summarize the focus group discussions.

Results

The questionnaire survey revealed that nursing students reported high levels of personal, technical, and pedagogical readiness across all three universities, while environmental readiness was perceived as low. The inductive thematic analysis identified three themes, namely: enablers, challenges, and benefits. Specifically, nursing students valued the student-centred approach. They were ready to utilize their own devices to overcome limited technological provision; however, a short training session about how to engage in the flipped classroom was desirable. Also, their exposure to basic educational technology was perceived as adequate and they were aware of the positive outcomes of flipped classroom pedagogy.

Conclusion

Nursing students were ready to enrol in a flipped classroom programme. The provision of technological resources in the education environment was identified as a great challenge for flipped classroom implementation. Overall, the findings indicate there are promising feasibilities for the flipped classroom implementation.
What is the effect of preterm birth on permanent tooth crown dimensions? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Buhamer Shaima Nasser , Kaklamanos Eleftherios , Kowash Mawlood , Hussein Iyad , Salami Anas , Al-Halabi Manal
Published: November 2021

Background

The permanent tooth formation process may be disrupted in preterm infants with potential discrepancies in size and subsequent occlusal disturbances.

Objective

To systematically analyse and quantitively synthesize the available evidence regarding the impact of preterm birth on permanent tooth crown dimensions.

Search methods

Unrestricted searches in 6 databases and manual searching of the reference lists in relevant studies were performed up to March 2021 (Medline via PubMed, CENTRAL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global).

Selection criteria

Observational studies investigating permanent tooth crown dimensions in preterm and control full-term born individuals.

Data collection and analysis

Following study retrieval and selection, relevant data were extracted, and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to assess the selection, comparability, and outcome domains. Exploratory synthesis and meta-regression were carried out using the random effects model.

Results

Three studies were located from the initially retrieved records and the assessments with the Newcastle-Ottawa scale identified issues regarding the selection and comparability domains. Overall, the mesiodistal and the buccolingual dimensions of the permanent teeth in both dental arches tended to be smaller in children born prematurely than full term children. Subgroup analyses showed statistically significant differences for the extremely preterm to control group comparisons for the incisors and the first molars. Meta-regression showed a modificatory effect of gestational age and racial background but not of birth weight and gender on tooth size. The quality of available evidence was rated at best as moderate.

Conclusions

Premature birth could potentially be associated with reduced tooth-crown dimensions in some permanent teeth especially in children born extremely preterm. Although the results from these observational studies should be approached with caution until more information becomes available, the possible clinical implications in terms of diagnosis and treatment planning should be considered.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42020182243).
Tensile modulus of human orbital wall bones cut in sagittal and coronal planes
Authors: Zerdzicki Krzysztof , Lemski Pawel , Klosowski Pawel , Skorek Andrzej , Zmuda Trzebiatowski Marcin , Koberda Mateusz
Published: November 2021

In the current research, 68 specimens of orbital superior and/or medial walls taken from 33 human cadavers (12 females, 21 males) were subjected to uniaxial tension untill fracture. The samples were cut in the coronal (38 specimens) and sagittal (30 specimens) planes of the orbital wall. Apparent density (ρapp), tensile Young’s modulus (E-modulus) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were identified. Innovative test protocols were used to minimize artifacts and analyze the obtained data: (1) grips dedicated to non-symmetrical samples clamping were applied for mechanical testing, (2) non-contact measuring system of video-extensometer was employed for displacement registration, (3) ink imprint technique coupled with CAD analysis was applied to precisely access the cross-sectional areas of tested samples. With regard to a pooled group, apparent density for the coronal and sagittal cut plane was equal 1.53 g/cm3 and 1.57 g/cm3, tensile Young’s modulus 2.36 GPa and 2.14 GPa, and ultimate tensile strength 12.66 MPa and 14.35 MPa, respectively. No significant statistical differences (p > 0.05) were found for all the analyzed parameters when comparing coronal and sagittal plane cut groups. These observations confirmed the hypothesis that direction of sample cut does not affect the mechanical response of the orbital wall tissue, thus suggesting that mechanical properties of orbital wall bone show isotropic character.
Is the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine effective in elderly populations? Results from population data from Bavaria, Germany
Authors: Gomes Delphina , Beyerlein Andreas , Katz Katharina , Hoelscher Gabriele , Nennstiel Uta , Liebl Bernhard , Überla Klaus , von Kries Rüdiger
Published: November 2021

Background

The efficacy of the BioNTech-Pfizer BNT162b2 vaccination in the elderly (≥80 years) could not be fully assessed in the BioNTech-Pfizer trial due to low numbers in this age group. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the BioNTech-Pfizer (BNT162b2) vaccine to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe outcomes in octo- and novo-generians in a German state setting.

Methods and findings

A prospective observational study of 708,187 persons aged ≥80 years living in Bavaria, Germany, was conducted between Jan 9 to Apr 11, 2021. We assessed the vaccine effectiveness (VE) for two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine with respect to SARS-CoV-2 infection and related hospitalisations and mortality. Additionally, differences in VE by age groups ≥80 to ≤89 years and ≥90 years were studied. Analyses were adjusted by sex. By the end of follow-up, 63.8% of the Bavarian population ≥80 years had received one dose, and 52.7% two doses, of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine lowered the proportion of SARS-CoV-2 infections and related outcomes, resulting in VE estimates of 68.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 65.5%, 70.9%) for infection, 73.2% (95% CI 65.3%, 79.3%) for hospitalisation, and 85.1% (95% CI 80.0%, 89.0%) for mortality. Sex differences in the risk of COVID-19 outcomes observed among unvaccinated persons disappeared after two BNT162b2 vaccine doses. Overall, the BNT162b2 vaccine was equally effective in octo- and novo-genarians.

Conclusions

Two doses of BioNTech-Pfizer’s BNT162b2 vaccine is highly effective against COVID-19 outcomes in elderly persons.
How narrative transportation in movies affects audiences’ positive word-of-mouth: The mediating role of emotion
Authors: Wang Shih-Tse , Tang Yao-Chien
Published: November 2021

On the basis of the cognitive–affective–behavioral model, this study investigated the effects of narrative transportation in movies on audience emotion and positive word-of-mouth (PWOM). To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to explore the effects of the multidimensionality of narrative transportation on the multidimensionality of emotion. In this study, narrative transportation was divided into dimensions of empathy, immersion, and belief revision, and emotion was divided into pleasure and arousal. To explore the relationship between narrative transportation, emotions, and PWOM, the participants, comprising individuals with movie watching experience, completed a questionnaire on the movie that had left the deepest impression on them. The responses were analyzed through structural equation modeling. Empathy, immersion, and belief revision were significantly and positively associated with pleasure and arousal, which positively correlated with PWOM. The relationship between empathy or immersion and PWOM was partially mediated by pleasure and arousal, whereas pleasure and arousal fully mediated the association between belief revision and PWOM. Practical suggestions for filmmakers were derived from the present findings.