bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible integrated scheduling algorithm based on remaining work probability selection coding
Authors: Gao Yilong , Xie Zhiqiang , Yang Dan , Yu Xu
Published: March 2021

Aiming at the integrated scheduling problem of tree‐structured products with flexible machine selection, this article proposes a flexible integrated scheduling algorithm based on remaining work probability selection coding. The algorithm is based on the framework of a genetic algorithm. First, in order to ensure the diversity and goodness of the initial population, an encoding method based on remaining work probability selection is proposed. Second, two new different crossover and mutation methods are designed based on operation and position respectively, which ensure the legitimacy of the generated offspring individuals. Then, in order to enhance the searchability of the algorithm for an optimal solution of the problem, a local search strategy based on the machine is proposed. Finally, a simple and effective decoding method based on the idle period is given. The algorithm is tested by the existing instance and randomly generated instances. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm's solving speed and solution quality outperform other comparison algorithms.
Association of early initiation of dialysis with all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality: A propensity score weighted analysis of the United States Renal Data System
Authors: Bozorgmehri Shahab , Aboud Hussain , Chamarthi Gajapathiraju , Liu I‐Chia , Tezcan Ozrazgat‐Baslanti , Shukla Ashutosh M. , Kazory Amir , Rupam Ruchi , Segal Mark S. , Bihorac Azra , Mohandas Rajesh
Published: March 2021

Background

Early initiation of maintenance hemodialysis has been associated with excess mortality in some studies, but the effects on cardiovascular (CV) mortality has not been studied. Moreover, whether the increased mortality is due to co‐morbidities or early initiation of dialysis is unclear. We used a propensity score weighted analysis of the United States Renal Data System (USRDS) to examine how the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at initiation of dialysis affects total and CV mortality.

Methods

Association between tertiles of eGFR at initiation of hemodialysis and all‐cause and CV mortality were assessed in 676,196 adult patients who initiated hemodialysis between 2006 and 2014, using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) weighted multivariable regression models.

Results

The intermediate (eGFR 8.7 to <13.0 mL/min) and early start groups (eGFR ≥13.0 mL/min) had a 42% and 93% increased all‐cause mortality, respectively compared to late (eGFR < 8.7), start group (unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.42; 95% CI, 1.41–1.43 and HR = 1.93; 95%CI, 1.91–1.94, respectively). This association was attenuated but remained significant in propensity weighted multivariable analysis (adjusted HR = 1.13; 95%CI, 1.12–1.14 for intermediate and HR = 1.37; 95%CI, 1.36–1.39, for early start, respectively). The CV mortality was similarly increased (adjusted HR = 1.08; 95%CI, 1.07–1.10 and HR = 1.23; 95%CI, 1.21–1.24, for intermediate and early start, respectively). In patients with cystic kidney disease, all‐cause mortality was increased with early start, but there were no differences in CV mortality between groups.

Conclusions

Early initiation of dialysis is associated with increased all‐cause and CV mortality. Our observations support delaying hemodialysis according to the eGFR values.
The burden of non‐communicable diseases and mortality in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the pre‐, early‐ and late‐HAART era
Authors: Jespersen NA , Axelsen F , Dollerup J , Nørgaard M , Larsen CS
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To estimate the burden of non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) and mortality among PLHIV in the pre‐, early‐ and late‐HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) era.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study using population‐based Danish medical registries including all adult HIV‐infected residents of the Central Denmark Region during 1985–2017. For each HIV patient, we selected 10 comparisons from the background population matched by age, sex and municipality of residence. Based on hospital‐related diagnoses we estimated the prevalence and incidence of specific NCD at diagnosis and at 5 and 10 years.

Results

We identified 1043 PLHIV and 10 430 matched comparisons. PLHIV had lower socioeconomic status and more were born outside western Europe. At HIV diagnosis, 21.9% of PHLIV vs. 18.2% of non‐HIV individuals had at least one NCD, increasing to 42.2% vs. 25.9% after 10 years. PLHIV had higher prevalence and cumulative incidence of alcohol abuse, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), ischaemic heart disease, mental disorders, renal and liver disease, but no increased risk of diabetes mellitus. Only PLHIV in the age groups 41–50 and > 51 years had an increased incidence of osteoporosis. From the pre‐ to the late‐HAART era, 10‐year mortality among PLHIV decreased from 45.5% to 9.4% but continued at more than twice that of uninfected comparisons. However, in the late‐HAART era, the mortality of PLHIV who were alive 2 years after HIV diagnosis was approaching that of comparisons.

Conclusions

Even in the late‐HAART era, PLHIV have an excess mortality, which may be attributable to several NCDs being more prevalent among PLHIV. The prevalence rates of ischaemic heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and renal disease tend to increase over calendar time. Therefore, improvement of survival and quality of life of PLHIV neets strategies to reduce the risk of developing NCDs, including avoiding toxic antiretroviral therapy and lifestyle changes.
Silent suffering of the dying and their families: impact of COVID‐19
Authors: Katz Naomi T. , McInerney Maureen , Ravindran Ganan , Gold Michelle
Published: March 2021

Death, grief and bereavement all look different in the current COVID‐19 pandemic. Patients and families are suffering as a result of COVID‐19 itself, and the measures required to contain it. As a result, health professionals need to be aware of potential for additional psychological distress, as well as the risk of prolonged grief disorder.
Signaling‐to‐chromatin pathways in the immune system
Authors: Martínez de Paz Alexia , Josefowicz Steven Zvi
Published: March 2021

Complex organisms are able to respond to diverse environmental cues by rapidly inducing specific transcriptional programs comprising a few dozen genes among thousands. The highly complex environment within the nucleus—a crowded milieu containing large genomes tightly condensed with histone proteins in the form of chromatin—makes inducible transcription a challenge for the cell, akin to the proverbial needle in a haystack. The different signaling pathways and transcription factors involved in the transmission of information from the cell surface to the nucleus have been readily explored, but not so much the specific mechanisms employed by the cell to ultimately instruct the chromatin changes necessary for a fast and robust transcription activation. Signaling pathways rely on cascades of protein kinases that, in addition to activating transcription factors can also activate the chromatin template by phosphorylating histone proteins, what we refer to as “signaling‐to‐chromatin.” These pathways appear to be selectively employed and especially critical for driving inducible transcription in macrophages and likely in diverse other immune cell populations. Here, we discuss signaling‐to‐chromatin pathways with potential relevance in diverse immune cell populations together with chromatin related mechanisms that help to “solve” the needle in a haystack challenge of robust chromatin activation and inducible transcription.
Does work socialisation matter? Worker engagement in political activities, attachment to democracy and openness to immigration
Authors: Ryan Lorraine , Turner Thomas
Published: March 2021

The effects of work socialisation on worker engagement in political activities, attachment to democracy and openness to outsiders are explored in this article. Work environments are measured using firm size, unionisation and employee participation as significant factors that contribute to the development of democratic or authoritarian sentiment at work. Using data from the European Social Survey across 11 countries, we test whether work socialisation influences individuals' attitudes such as trust in the societal institutions of democracy, active involvement in political activities and openness to outsiders, particularly immigrants. Results indicate that individuals working in large organisations accompanied by higher levels of voice and participation at work are more likely to report greater political engagement, trust in politics, trust in people and openness to outsiders compared to workers in small organisations with low levels of voice and participation.
Nursing care management based on the Omaha system for inpatients diagnosed with COVID‐19: An electronic health record study
Authors: Ardic Aysun , Turan Ebru
Published: March 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify the clinical characteristics of patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 and the existing nursing problems based on the Omaha System, and to establish a comprehensive nursing care management plan by determining the nursing interventions and care outcomes.

Design

This study used a descriptive cross‐sectional design.

Methods

This study was conducted in a training and research hospital with 25 non‐intubated COVID‐19 inpatients between 6 April and 13 May 2020 in Turkey. Data were collected using a Socio‐demographic and Clinical Characteristics Form, the COVID‐19 Response Separate Guidelines and the Omaha System and Nightingale Notes software. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical tests and the chi‐square method.

Results

Using the Omaha System, it was shown that the patients’ most common problems were communicable/infectious condition, respiration, circulation, pain, nutrition, personal care and substance use respectively. The most common signs and symptoms were signs of infection, fever, cough, respiratory distress and pain. The interventions that were performed most frequently to the patients included infection precautions, medication action/side effects, signs/symptoms‐physical, dietary management and nursing care targets for intervention. These interventions were applied using the category of teaching, guidance and counselling. A significant improvement was observed in the patients’ pre‐ and post‐intervention knowledge, behaviour and status scores.

Conclusions

The results showed that the Omaha System provided effective guidelines for diagnosing the problems, planning and implementing appropriate interventions for the COVID‐19 patients. Therefore, it is recommended to use the Omaha System in nursing care of COVID‐19 patients.

Impact

This is the first study to identify the nursing problems of COVID‐19 patients and to evaluate the outcomes of nursing interventions and care using an international taxonomy along with electronic health record software. The findings of this study can provide evidence‐based guidelines addressing the nursing problems, interventions and outcomes of COVID‐19 patients.
Investigating the role of E‐contact and self‐disclosure on improving Turkish‐Kurdish interethnic relations
Authors: Bagci Sabahat C. , Guvensoy Ipek , Turner Rhiannon N. , White Fiona A. , Piyale Zeynep E.
Published: March 2021

While recent research has started to pay more attention to the role of contact strategies on promoting intergroup harmony between Turkish and Kurdish communities, the effectiveness of a novel form of indirect contact strategy, E‐contact—where participants engage in a cooperative and structured online interaction with an individual from the outgroup—has not yet been tested. Across two studies (NStudy 1 = 110, NStudy 2 = 176), we investigated the effects of E‐contact among Turks on promoting positive attitudes and behavioral tendencies toward Kurds, testing outgroup trust and intergroup anxiety as mediators and incorporating a distinction between lower and higher self‐disclosure conditions. As expected, E‐contact led to more positive outgroup attitudes, as well as greater approach tendencies and decreased avoidance tendencies through increased outgroup trust (Studies 1 and 2) and reduced intergroup anxiety (Study 2). Study 2 also found that E‐contact produced lower perceived interethnic conflict through increased outgroup trust. While both lower and higher personal disclosure conditions provided similar effects in the two studies, E‐contact with heightened self‐disclosure was especially effective at promoting more positive outgroup attitudes and reducing avoidance tendencies. Findings highlight potential benefits of using E‐contact as a prejudice‐reduction strategy in conflict settings.
A scalable computational approach to assessing response to name in toddlers with autism
Authors: Perochon Sam , Di Martino Matias , Aiello Rachel , Baker Jeffrey , Carpenter Kimberly , Chang Zhuoqing , Compton Scott , Davis Naomi , Eichner Brian , Espinosa Steven , Flowers Jacqueline , Franz Lauren , Gagliano Martha , Harris Adrianne , Howard Jill , Kollins Scott H. , Perrin Eliana M. , Raj Pradeep , Spanos Marina , Walter Barbara , Sapiro Guillermo , Dawson Geraldine
Published: March 2021

Background

This study is part of a larger research program focused on developing objective, scalable tools for digital behavioral phenotyping. We evaluated whether a digital app delivered on a smartphone or tablet using computer vision analysis (CVA) can elicit and accurately measure one of the most common early autism symptoms, namely failure to respond to a name call.

Methods

During a pediatric primary care well‐child visit, 910 toddlers, 17–37 months old, were administered an app on an iPhone or iPad consisting of brief movies during which the child's name was called three times by an examiner standing behind them. Thirty‐seven toddlers were subsequently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Name calls and children’s behavior were recorded by the camera embedded in the device, and children’s head turns were coded by both CVA and a human.

Results

CVA coding of response to name was found to be comparable to human coding. Based on CVA, children with ASD responded to their name significantly less frequently than children without ASD. CVA also revealed that children with ASD who did orient to their name exhibited a longer latency before turning their head. Combining information about both the frequency and the delay in response to name improved the ability to distinguish toddlers with and without ASD.

Conclusions

A digital app delivered on an iPhone or iPad in real‐world settings using computer vision analysis to quantify behavior can reliably detect a key early autism symptom—failure to respond to name. Moreover, the higher resolution offered by CVA identified a delay in head turn in toddlers with ASD who did respond to their name. Digital phenotyping is a promising methodology for early assessment of ASD symptoms.
Experimental investigation of drying characteristics of lima beans with passive and active mode greenhouse solar dryers
Authors: Mani Purusothaman , Thirumalai Natesan Valarmathi
Published: March 2021

In the study, the thermal performance of the even span and parabolic roof type solar greenhouse dryers is investigated under the active and passive modes under the same operating conditions. Dryers were covered with the 200‐μm UV stabilized polyethylene sheets to enhance the solar insolation effect. The performance of these dryers is evaluated for drying lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus). The moisture content of Lima beans was reduced from 75% (w.b.) to 11% (w.b). For both of active and passive mode conditions, the parabolic dryer could dry in 28 and 32 hr, respectively and that for the even span dryer, it could achieve the same state in 32 and 36 hr, respectively. The open sun drying took as high as 40 hr to dry time for the lima beans. The highest thermal efficiency of the dryers was estimated to be 14.7% for the active mode parabolic dryer and the minimum as 12.03% in the passive mode even span dryers. The nutrition retainment was the highest for parabolic active mode dryer with the payback period as 2.15 years, as against 10 years of expected solid life span and strong suggestion is made for the use of the small scale needful farmers.

Practical Applications

Drying is an energy consuming processes, and industries require more amount of energy for drying a food grain. In the current scenario, more attention is toward for usage of the Solar based dryers for the abundance of availability of solar energy which makes cost effective. However, the popularly available conventional method of open Sun drying of lima beans resulted in contamination of product from external dirt, degradation due to direct heating, existence of uncontrolled dry rate and additional dry time. To solve the above constraints, in open sun drying and to improve the dried product quality, the author constructed a simple, compact and economically modified greenhouse solar dryer. The quality of dried lima beans under active mode convection parabolic roof was superior. The much needed carbohydrate and protein values, of dried lima beans of 100 g sample for forced convection parabolic roof greenhouse solar dryer had shown the increase of 2 and 10% than open sun dry sample. Among various seeds used to making food stuff, the lima beans are one of the choices for people.
Prediction model for bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection of gastric neoplasms from a high‐volume center
Authors: Choe Yeon Hwa , Jung Da Hyun , Park Jun Chul , Kim Ha Yan , Shin Sung Kwan , Lee Sang Kil , Lee Yong Chan
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Bleeding after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a main adverse event. To date, although there have been several studies about risk factors for post‐ESD bleeding, there has been few predictive model for post‐ESD bleeding with large volume cases. We aimed to design a prediction model for post‐ESD bleeding using a classification tree model.

Methods

We analyzed a prospectively established cohort of patients with gastric neoplasms treated with ESD from 2007 to 2016. Baseline characteristics were collected for a total of 5080 patients, and the bleeding risk was estimated using variable statistical methods such as logistic regression, AdaBoost, and random forest. To investigate how bleeding was affected by independent predictors, the classification and regression tree (CART) method was used. The prediction tree developed for the cohort was internally validated.

Results

Post‐ESD bleeding occurred in 262 of 5080 patients (5.1%). In multivariate logistic regression, ongoing antithrombotic use during the procedure, cancer pathology, and piecemeal resection were significant risk factors for post‐ESD bleeding. In the CART model, the decisive variables were ongoing antithrombotic agent use, resected specimen size ≥49 mm, and patient age <62 years. The CART model accuracy was 94.9%, and the cross‐validation accuracy was 94.8%.

Conclusions

We developed a simple and easy‐to‐apply predictive tree model based on three risk factors that could help endoscopists identify patients at a high risk of bleeding. This model will enable clinicians to establish precise management strategies for patients at a high risk of bleeding and to prevent post‐ESD bleeding.
Diet and physical activity after liver transplant: A qualitative study of barriers and facilitators to following advice
Authors: Spillman Lynsey N. , Melville‐Claxton Arabella , Gatiss Gillian A. , Fernandez Nicola , Madden Angela M.
Published: March 2021

Background

Liver transplant recipients are given diet and physical activity advice to aid recovery and promote long‐term health. The present study aimed to explore patients’ experiences of receiving and implementing diet and physical activity advice after liver transplant and identify barriers and facilitators to following recommendations.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive design included purposive sampling of 13 liver transplant recipients. Semi‐structured audio‐recorded interviews and inductive thematic analysis using a framework were undertaken concurrently to enable recruitment until saturation of themes occurred.

Results

Overall experiences varied between participants and settings, as well as over time. Seven themes emerged, all representing both barriers and facilitators to implementing advice. Poor capability and loss of confidence were barriers that improved in hospital because healthcare professionals enabled participants to set and achieve goals but remained key barriers after discharge from hospital. The format and consistency of advice influenced participants’ confidence in the healthcare team. Social support helped participants to return to and implement advice, although social networks could also have a negative influence. Advice and modelling of behaviour from other transplant recipients were facilitators. Symptoms, side effects, comorbidities and the environment presented barriers and facilitators. The desire to return to normal and coping strategies were drivers of behaviours, which were also influenced by participants’ beliefs and values.

Conclusions

The variation in experiences indicates a need for individually tailored advice that is consistent across the multidisciplinary team. Interventions for behaviour change that merit further investigation include goal setting, improving coping strategies, peer support and modifying the hospital and home environment.
Profile of Runaway Youths from Residential Care Centers: Variation in Risk‐Taking Propensity
Authors: Couture Sophie , T. Hébert Sophie , Laurier Catherine , Monette Sébastien , Hélie Sonia , Lafortune Denis
Published: March 2021

During runaway episodes, adolescents engage in various high‐risk behaviors and are exposed to various dangers. This situation is even more pronounced among runaway youths from residential care centers, given their personal and familial backgrounds that place them at risk. The current study attempted to disentangle the heterogeneous characteristics of runaway youths while considering the adolescent risk‐taking literature. A latent profile analysis was performed among 112 runaway youths from residential care centers based on runaway characteristics (number, duration, context of return). The Parent involvement, Independent and Police involvement runaway youth profiles were compared on various characteristics involved in risk‐taking, their high‐risk behaviors and mental health problems. The clinical implications for these three runaway profiles are discussed.
Stress and Learning in Pupils: Neuroscience Evidence and its Relevance for Teachers
Authors: Whiting Sue B. , Wass Sam V. , Green Simon , Thomas Michael S. C.
Published: March 2021

Our understanding of how stress affects primary school children's attention and learning has developed rapidly. We know that children experience differing levels of stressors (factors that cause stress) in their environments, and that this can influence how they respond to new stressors when they occur in educational contexts. Here, we review evidence showing that stress can increase children's attention and learning capacities in some circumstances but hinder them in others. We show how children differ in their attention and learning styles, dependent on stress levels: for example, more highly stressed children may be more distracted by superficial features and may find it harder to engage in planning and voluntary control. We review intervention research on stress management techniques in children, concentrating on psychological techniques (such as mindfulness and stress reappraisal), physiological techniques (such as breathing exercises) and environmental factors (such as reducing noise). At the current time, raising teachers' awareness of pupils' differing stress responses will be an important step in accommodating the differing needs of children in their classrooms.
Associations between livestock ownership and lower odds of anaemia among children 6–59 months old are not mediated by animal‐source food consumption in Ghana
Authors: Lambrecht Nathalie J. , Wilson Mark L. , Baylin Ana , Folson Gloria , Naabah Samuel , Eisenberg Joseph N. S. , Adu Bright , Jones Andrew D.
Published: March 2021

Livestock ownership may mitigate anaemia among young children by providing access to animal‐source foods (ASFs) yet exacerbate anaemia by exposing children to animal‐source pathogens. This study aimed to assess the association between household livestock ownership and child anaemia and examine whether this relationship is mediated by child ASF consumption or by child morbidity and inflammation. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 470 children aged 6–59 months in Greater Accra, Ghana. Child blood samples were analysed for haemoglobin concentration, iron status biomarkers and inflammatory biomarkers. Caregivers were asked about the child's frequency of ASF consumption in the past 3 months. Livestock ownership was categorized into five typologies to distinguish households by the number and combinations of species owned. In adjusted logistic regression, children from households in Type 5, owning cattle, small livestock (goats, sheep or pigs) and poultry, had lower odds of anaemia compared with those in Type 1, owning no livestock (OR [95% CI]: 0.32 [0.14, 0.71]). Although children from households that owned poultry were more likely to consume chicken meat, and children from households with cattle were more likely to drink cow's milk, consumption of these ASFs did not mediate the observed association between livestock ownership and child anaemia. There were no associations between livestock ownership and children's symptoms of illness or inflammation. Further research is needed to understand how ownership of certain livestock species, or a greater diversity of livestock species, may be associated with the risk of child anaemia, including the role of dietary and income‐based pathways.
Gasoline price reforms and household consumption behaviour: Evidence from household‐level survey data in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Sahlawi Mohammed , Al‐Mansour Abdullah , Al‐Titi Omar , Miah Fazlul
Published: March 2021

In January 2016, as a measure of energy price reform, the government of Saudi Arabia implemented a 50 per cent nationwide increase in gasoline prices of both higher (octane 95) and lower (octane 91) grades. We utilised more than 1800 responses from a nationwide survey designed to study gasoline consumption preferences among residents of Saudi Arabia to investigate the impact of this price reform. Our analysis shows that the January 2016 price hike was responsible for more than 20 per cent drop, on average, in gasoline consumption among residents of the country who used the lower grade, octane 91‐type gasoline. However, users of octane 95 surveyed in the post‐price‐adjustment period consumed 15 per cent more gasoline than those who were surveyed in the pre‐adjustment period. Moreover, the estimated demand elasticity decreases with the level of education, while income level tends to be positively associated with higher consumption in the higher‐price period than in the lower‐price period.
Breeding maize (Zea mays) for Striga resistance: Past, current and prospects in sub‐saharan africa
Authors: Yacoubou Abdoul‐Madjidou , Zoumarou Wallis Nouhoun , Menkir Abebe , Zinsou Valerien A. , Onzo Alexis , Garcia‐Oliveira Ana Luísa , Meseka Silvestro , Wende Mengesha , Gedil Melaku , Agre Paterne
Published: March 2021

Striga hermonthica, causes up to 100% yield loss in maize production in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Developing Striga‐resistant maize cultivars could be a major component of integrated Striga management strategies. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of maize breeding activities related to Striga resistance and its management. Scientific surveys have revealed that conventional breeding strategies have been used more than molecular breeding strategies in maize improvement for Striga resistance. Striga resistance genes are still under study in the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) maize breeding programme. There is also a need to discover QTL and molecular markers associated with such genes to improve Striga resistance in maize. Marker Assistance Breeding is expected to increase maize breeding efficiency with complex traits such as resistance towards Striga because of the complex nature of the host‐parasite relationship and its intersection with other environmental factors. Conventional alongside molecular tools and technical controls are promising methods to effectively assess Striga in Sub‐Saharan Africa.
Candidate Aggression and Gendered Voter Evaluations
Authors: Bauer Nichole M. , Kalmoe Nathan P. , Russell Erica B.
Published: March 2021

Politicians frequently use uncivil and even aggressive tactics in political appeals. Aggressive behavior and personality code as masculine, and voters generally value masculine traits in leaders. However, extreme displays may be off‐putting to all but the most aggressive voters. In this article, we theorize how aggressive political displays interact with gendered personality traits to shape candidate evaluations. Which voters punish candidates for aggressive behavior, and which voters give which candidates a pass? We leverage two survey experiments to investigate how voters judge intensely uncivil candidates in a political debate—verbal aggression and a physical dominance display. We find voters penalize (or even reward) candidates differently for aggressive behavior depending on their own aggressive personality traits. Our findings advance research on the distinct effects of gender over sex in politics and studies of aggression dynamics in mass politics. Our results also speak to work on the strategies available to male and female candidates with broader implications for representation and norms in democratic politics.
How domestic contexts shape international private governance: The case of the European Accord and American Alliance in Bangladesh
Authors: Leitheiser Erin
Published: March 2021

The international nature of supply chains has led to the rise of private authority in regulating the environmental and social impacts of production, which companies frequently address through corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the form of private governance (PG). Despite its claim to establish “global” rules, PG usually has national origins, and multiple efforts to address the same issue from different national perspectives frequently coexist. Numerous studies have explored the impact of national business systems on companies' domestic CSR practices, yet little is known about what factors shape CSR practices like PG internationally. Therefore, this study seeks to understand how differing domestic contexts shape approaches to CSR in the form of PG in host countries. I explore this empirically through the comparative case study of competing PG initiatives in the post‐Rana Plaza Bangladesh garment industry, uniquely conceived to govern companies' practices rather than certify products. It combines empirical findings with the comparative CSR literature to hypothesize about ideal types of PG organizing in US and European contexts. It extends the analysis to also account for other influential factors, such as stakeholder pressure, thus demonstrating how institutional and agentic factors amalgamate to shape firms' choices. By explicating linkages between international PG and its domestic context, as well as between the comparative CSR and PG literature studies, this study extends our understanding of how and why international PG practices and preferences vary for firms originating from different environments.
Patterns of Policy Networks at the Local Level in Germany
Authors: Möck Malte
Published: March 2021

Research on policy network formation has contributed to an understanding of the patterns of interaction among political actors. Belief homophily, power seeking, and opportunity structures provide explanations studied for specific policy areas. This study tests these established theories in a different environment by asking: What drives policy network formation at the local level? From a review of the literature on policy networks and local politics, the study derives nine hypotheses, which are tested for a German municipality. Information and coordination networks have been collected among its councilors through an online survey. The study identifies the drivers of their formation utilizing exponential random graph models. Findings support the effects of party membership and perceived influence. They also point to the tendency of councilors to coordinate with the mayor and they emphasize local councils as an influential opportunity structure specific to local networks.
Aging and undocumented: The sociology of aging meets immigration status
Authors: Flores Morales Josefina
Published: March 2021

Being undocumented is strongly correlated with low wages, employment in high risk occupations, and poor healthcare access. We know surprisingly little about the social lives of older undocumented adults despite the vast literature about youth and young undocumented migrants. Literature about the immigrant health paradox casts doubts on the argument that unequal social conditions translate to poorer self‐reported health and mortality, but few of these studies consider immigration status as the dynamic variable that it is. Reviewing research about older migrants and minorities, I point to the emergence of undocumented older persons as a demographic group that merits attention from researchers and policymakers. This nexus offers important lessons for understanding stratification and inequality. This review offers new research directions that take into account multilevel consequences of growing old undocumented. Rather than arguing that older‐aged undocumented migrants are aging into exclusion, I argue that we need careful empirical research to examine how the continuity of exclusion via policies can magnify inequalities on the basis of immigration status and racialization in older age.
Time alone well spent? A person‐centered analysis of adolescents' solitary activities
Authors: Hipson Will E. , Coplan Robert J. , Dufour Morgan , Wood Katherine R. , Bowker Julie C.
Published: March 2021

Although solitude has been portrayed as a potentially constructive domain in adolescence, time alone has been consistently associated with socio‐emotional maladjustment. To address this discrepancy, we explored how adolescents spend their time alone and the links between solitary activities and adjustment outcomes. Adolescents (N = 869, 68% female, Mage = 16.14 ± .50) completed self‐report measures assessing time alone, solitary activities, and indices of adjustment. Latent class analysis revealed three distinct groups based on solitary activities: Passive Media (53.3%), Engaged (i.e., constructive activities; 31.7%), and Thinking (15%). Differences also emerged among these three groups in terms of time alone, negative affect, and loneliness. Implications for the role of solitude in adolescent well‐being are discussed.
An Australian trial of the effectiveness of a discount reward to increase plasma donor retention and frequency of donation
Authors: Chell Kathleen , White Claire , Karki Surendra , Davison Tanya E.
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

Encouraging existing plasma donors to donate more frequently is a key objective for blood collection organizations committed to improving plasma self‐sufficiency through voluntary non‐remunerated donations. The aim of this paper is to present results from a pilot trial testing whether an in‐centre discount voucher reward could increase retention and donation frequency among new and repeat plasma donors.

Materials and Methods

A sample of n = 1242 new and repeat plasma donors who presented to donate at the Civic Plasma Donor Centre in Canberra, Australia, over a 14‐week period participated in the trial. Of this group, n = 253 were offered a discount voucher for a local cafe (intervention group) and n = 989 received the business as usual approach in the donor centre (control group). The subsequent donation behaviour of participants was monitored over three months.

Results

Overall, 69·6% accepted the discount voucher, with 18·2% of those redeeming it. Those who accepted the voucher were younger and less experienced plasma donors. The intervention did not significantly increase the likelihood of return to donate compared to the control group; however, it did reduce the time to return to donate plasma. The overall rate of donation within 3 months was also significantly higher for donors who were offered the incentive than for the control group. Declining the offer did not negatively impact donors’ return behaviour.

Conclusion

This paper provides new insights around strategies to increase plasma donation frequency, as well as donor response to introducing a discount voucher reward within a voluntary non‐remunerated donation system.
Lymphatic injury alters the contractility and mechanosensitivity of collecting lymphatics to intermittent pneumatic compression
Authors: Mukherjee Anish , Nepiyushchikh Zhanna , Michalaki Eleftheria , Dixon J. Brandon
Published: March 2021

Key points

We present the first in vivo evidence that lymphatic contraction can entrain with an external oscillatory mechanical stimulus.

Lymphatic injury can alter collecting lymphatic contractility, but not much is known about how its mechanosensitivity to external pressure is affected, which is crucial given the current pressure application methods for treating lymphoedema.

We show that oscillatory pressure waves (OPW), akin to intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) therapy, optimally entrain lymphatic contractility and modulate function depending on the frequency and propagation speed of the OPW.

We show that the OPW‐induced entrainment and contractile function in the intact collecting lymphatics are enhanced 28 days after a contralateral lymphatic ligation surgery.

The results show that IPC efficacy can be improved through proper selection of OPW parameters, and that collecting lymphatics adapt their function and mechanosensitivity after a contralateral injury, switching their behaviour to a pump‐like configuration that may be more suited to the altered microenvironment.

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is commonly used to control the swelling due to lymphoedema, possibly modulating the collecting lymphatic function. Lymphoedema causes lymphatic contractile dysfunction, but the consequent alterations in the mechanosensitivity of lymphatics to IPC is not known. In the present work, the spatiotemporally varying oscillatory pressure waves (OPW) generated during IPC were simulated to study the modulation of lymphatic function by OPW under physiological and pathological conditions. OPW with three temporal frequencies and three propagation speeds were applied to rat tail collecting lymphatics. The entrainment of the lymphatics to OPW was significantly higher at a frequency of 0.05 Hz compared with 0.1 Hz and 0.2 Hz (P = 0.0054 and P = 0.014, respectively), but did not depend on the OPW propagation speed. Lymphatic function was significantly higher at a frequency of 0.05 Hz and propagation speed of 2.55 mm/s (P = 0.015). Exogenous nitric oxide was not found to alter OPW‐induced entrainment. A contralateral lymphatic ligation surgery was performed to simulate partial lymphatic injury in rat tails. The intact vessels showed a significant increase in entrainment to OPW, 28 days after ligation (compared with sham) (P = 0.016), with a similar increase in lymphatic transport function (P = 0.0029). The results suggest an enhanced mechanosensitivity of the lymphatics, along with a transition to a pump‐like behaviour, in response to a lymphatic injury. These results enhance our fundamental understanding of how lymphatic mechanosensitivity assists the coordination of lymphatic contractility and how this might be leveraged in IPC therapy.
Microvascular Doppler ultrasound in children with acute pyelonephritis
Authors: Choi Gayoung , Je Bo-Kyung , Hong Doran , Cha Jaehyung
Published: March 2021

Aims: To compare the diagnostic performance of microvascular Doppler ultrasonography (MVUS) to B-mode and con-ventional colour Doppler US (CDUS) for detecting acute pyelonephritis (APN) lesions in children. Material and methods: An IRB-approved retrospective study was performed. From July 2018 to January 2019, 41 APN lesions in 28 children (15 boys, 13 girls; age range, 1-196 months; mean age, 53 months) who underwent 99mTc‒dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintig-raphy (DMSA) or contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and US including B-mode, CDUS, and MVUS were enrolled in this study. Three paediatric radiologists independently reviewed the B-mode, CDUS and MVUS images for the DMSA or CECT-proven APN lesions and evaluated the lesion visibility, lesion distinguishability and diagnostic confidence between the MVUS and CDUS images. Results: A total 41 of APN lesions were verified by DMSA (41 lesions) or CECT (3 lesions) during the same hospitalization period with renal US. Among 41 APN lesions, 52.8% was visible on B-mode, 85.4% on CDUS, and 94.3% on MVUS (p<0.001). Comparing the extent and margins of the lesions, MVUS had better results than CDUS in 41.5% of the lesions, CDUS had better results in 6.5% and they were equal in 52% (p<0.001). The diagnostic con-fidence of the APN lesions was higher for MVUS than CDUS in 36.6%, higher for CDUS than MVUS in 4.9%, and equal in the remaining 58.5% (p<0.05). The interobserver agreement was fair to moderate. Conclusions: MVUS showed improved detectability of hypoperfused areas in paediatric APN and provided higher diagnostic confidence.
The Lady Be Good: A Case Study in Radio Frequency Direction Finders
Authors: DiLisi Gregory A. , Chaney Alison , Kane Kenneth , Leskovec Robert A.
Published: March 2021

Over the past several years, we have contributed articles to TPT that focus on a forensics-style reexamination of significant historical events. The purpose of these articles is to afford students the opportunity to apply basic principles of physics to unsolved mysteries and potentially settle the historical debate. We assembled the lessons learned and best practices of our activities into a formalized pedagogy for teaching topics in physics, engineering, problem solving, critical thinking, and ethics.
Impetus-Like Reasoning as Continuous with Newtonian Physics
Authors: Robertson Amy D. , Goodhew Lisa M. , Scherr Rachel , Heron Paula R. L.
Published: March 2021

Among the student ideas about forces discussed in the literature, perhaps the most commonly reported is the notion of an impetus force, or the “belief that there is a force inside a moving object that keeps it going and causes it to have some speed.” For example, Clement asked university students taking introductory mechanics to draw a free-body diagram for a coin that has been tossed upward. He found that students often drew an arrow in the direction of the coin’s motion, at a point midway between the initial toss and the turnaround point, sometimes providing reasoning that suggested that the arrow corresponds to a “force from your hand” or the “force of the throw.” Clement interpreted these responses as indicating that “student[s] may believe that continuing motion implies the presence of a continuing force in the same direction, as a necessary cause of the motion.” As another example, in a study conducted with undergraduate students at Johns Hopkins University, McCloskey, Caramazza, and Green asked students to draw the path a ball will follow after it exits the curved tubes pictured in Fig. 1. The authors found that students often drew curved trajectories for the ball exiting each tube, and they coined the term “curvilinear impetus principle” to describe students’ reasoning. They write that students reasoned as though “an object constrained to move in a curved path acquires a curvilinear impetus that causes it to continue in a curved trajectory for some time after the constraints on its motion are removed.”
Student Responses to Changes in Introductory Physics Learning Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dew Matthew , Ford Lewis , Nodurft Dawson T. , Erukhimova Tatiana , Perry Jonathan
Published: March 2021

As a result of the spread of COVID-19 during spring 2020, many colleges and universities across the U.S., and beyond, were compelled to move entirely to remote, online instruction, or shut down. Due to the rapidity of this transition, instructors had to significantly—if not completely—change their instructional style on very short notice. Our purpose with this paper is to report on student experiences and reactions to the switch to emergency remote learning at two large land-grant, research-intensive universities. We aimed to explore how students have received and dealt with the shift to remote learning that began in March 2020, specifically in introductory physics and astronomy courses. By providing timely student feedback, we hope to help instructors tune their efforts to build a more effective remote learning environment.
Elite Junior Throwers Unlikely to Remain at the Top Level in the Senior Category
Authors: Boccia Gennaro , Cardinale Marco , Brustio Paolo Riccardo
Published: March 2021

Purpose: This study investigated (1) the transition rate of elite world-class throwers, (2) the age of peak performance in either elite junior and/or elite senior athletes, and (3) if relative age effect (RAE) influences the chance of being considered elite in junior and/or senior category. Methods: The career performance trajectories of 5108 throwers (49.9% females) were extracted from the World Athletics database. The authors identified throwers who had reached the elite level (operationally defined as the World all-time top 50 ranked for each age category) in either junior and/or senior category and calculated the junior-to-senior transition rate. The age of peak performance and the RAE were also investigated. Results: The transition rate at 16 and 18 years of age was 6% and 12% in males and 16% and 24% in females, respectively. Furthermore, elite senior throwers reached their personal best later in life than elite junior throwers. The athletes of both genders considered elite in the junior category showed a large RAE. Interestingly, male athletes who reached the elite level in senior category also showed appreciable RAE. Conclusions: Only a few of the athletes who reach the top 50 in the world at 16 or 18 years of age manage to become elite senior athletes, underlining that success at the beginning of an athletic career does not predict success in the athlete’s senior career. Moreover, data suggest that being relatively older may confer a benefit across the whole career of male throwers.
Bispecific antibodies targeting mutantRASneoantigens
Authors: Douglass Jacqueline , Hsiue Emily Han-Chung , Mog Brian J. , Hwang Michael S. , DiNapoli Sarah R. , Pearlman Alexander H. , Miller Michelle S. , Wright Katharine M. , Azurmendi P. Aitana , Wang Qing , Paul Suman , Schaefer Annika , Skora Andrew D. , Molin Marco Dal , Konig Maximilian F. , Liu Qiang , Watson Evangeline , Li Yana , Murphy Michael B. , Pardoll Drew M. , Bettegowda Chetan , Papadopoulos Nickolas , Gabelli Sandra B. , Kinzler Kenneth W. , Vogelstein Bert , Zhou Shibin
Published: March 2021

Bispecific T cell–engaging antibodies capable of specifically killing cancer cells expressing mutant RAS neoantigens were generated.
Evolution of Ribosomal Protein S14 Demonstrated by the Reconstruction of Chimeric Ribosomes in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Akanuma Genki , Kawamura Fujio , Watanabe Satoru , Watanabe Masaki , Okawa Fumiya , Natori Yousuke , Nanamiya Hideaki , Asai Kei , Chibazakura Taku , Yoshikawa Hirofumi , Soma Akiko , Hishida Takashi , Kato-Yamada Yasuyuki
Published: March 2021

S14, an essential ribosomal protein, may have evolved to adapt bacteria to zinc-limited environments by replacement of a zinc-binding motif with a zinc-independent sequence. It was expected that the bacterial ribosome would be tolerant to replacement of S14 because of the previous prediction that the spread of C− type S14 involved horizontal gene transfer.