bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Racial and Ethnic Disparities Among Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Lee Kathy , Mauldin Rebecca L , Tang Weizhou , Connolly John , Harwerth Joseph , Magruder Karen
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this project was to examine individual-level ethnic and racial differences and facility-level differences in types of complaints and rates of complaint resolution in a local long-term care ombudsman program.

Research Design and Methods

We employed a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. First, we analyzed secondary complaint data based on residents’ race and ethnicity (n = 464) and facility characteristics (n = 101). We then conducted 2 focus groups with ombudsmen (n = 12) to provide context for our quantitative findings and to explore the ombudsmen’s views on disparities in long-term care facilities.

Results

Racial and ethnic minority residents were more likely to generate complaints related to residents’ rights than nonminority residents. Assisted living facilities were more likely to have complaints related to residents’ rights and outside agencies than nursing homes. The rate of complaint resolution increased among facilities with a higher proportion of minority residents, compared to facilities with a lower proportion of minority residents. However, an estimation of cross-level interaction revealed that non-Hispanic White residents in these facilities experienced faster complaint resolution than minority residents. Ombudsmen expressed concerns about communication barriers between minority residents and facility staff and discussed different complaint types and resolution rates according to facility types.

Discussion and Implications

Our findings highlight disparities across long-term care facilities as well as disparities in care minority residents experience. Long-term care ombudsman program complaint data should be disaggregated by race and ethnicity of the residents to advocate for policy change at facility, state, and federal levels.
China
Authors: Cai Congyan
Published: March 2021

This chapter discusses the relationship between China and global security. Since the 1980s, the landscape of global security has transformed and, accordingly, China has redefined its concept of security, first contending that the risk of global confrontation and, in particular, military threats to China had significantly reduced in the 1980s and, secondly, by proposing the New Security Concept in the 1990s. Moreover, China was welcomed internationally for its increasing contribution to international security by participating in United Nations peacekeeping operations. In the second decade of the twenty-first century, however, a number of events have occurred which have adversely affected global security. Ultimately, the question of how to deal with global security concerns that stem from the rise of China is part of a far-reaching process on how a rising China treats, and is treated in, the international legal order. As such, the chapter addresses the following issues: What is the international security landscape in relation to a rising China? How has China transformed its traditional conception of sovereignty in order to engage with international security? Should any new legal regulations be considered to address security threats in relation to a rising China? Should legal means exclusively be relied on to address international security?
Europe
Authors: Methymaki Eleni , Ozcelik Asli
Published: March 2021

This chapter discusses the role of Europe as an actor of global (in)security. The place of Europe in the global security landscape is often analysed with a focus on the European Union or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, or both. But European States’ security approaches are not subsumed under the policies and politics of these organizations. The chapter looks at the National Security Strategies (NSSs) of nineteen European States to identify the security approaches of European States’ from their national perspectives, inquiring at the same time whether an embryonic ‘European’ security perspective emerges from them. To evaluate whether this is borne out in practice, the chapter then considers two spheres of securitization which, as evident from the NSSs, are perceived as essential to the maintenance of Europe itself: security at its borders and in its wider neighbourhood.
The Global South and the Law and Governance of Global Security
Authors: Rodiles Alejandro
Published: March 2021

This chapter examines the role of the Global South in international security. In a constantly changing global political environment, certain States from the South occupy a pivotal position when it comes to addressing specific security crises, be it due to their regional leadership or because they are otherwise regarded as indispensable brokers in highly complex political and cultural constellations. In terms of insecurity, the South is no longer primarily regarded as a bloody theatre of major power confrontation, but as a source of insecurity in and of itself. The chapter then considers some of the evolving contours of the law and governance of global security. There is a growing reliance on ad hoc arrangements that contribute to the decentralization and deformalization of the classical international security architecture centred on treaties and international institutions. Also, the merger of security and development is undergoing profound transformations, as shown by the ongoing United Nations peacebuilding review, and by dynamically evolving practices on counter-terrorism focused on resilience-building in communities and amongst ordinary people. Paradoxically, while these practices are, to a great extent, driven by the growing agency of the South, their consequences seem to partly curtail this agency. Finally, the chapter refers to studies that trace the trajectories of globally informed and locally applied security practices, paying attention to the aforementioned paradox.
The African Union
Authors: Owino Jerusha Asin
Published: March 2021

This chapter describes the security regime of the African Union(AU) mandated to promote peace and stability under the AU: the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) established in 2003. The chapter charts the institutional development of the mechanisms under the APSA against a volatile threat matrix and the deployment of these mechanisms in situational exigencies. It also illustrates the nature of the APSA as a security regime complex by unpacking the dense network of partnerships that operate within it. The chapter next demonstrates the pillars on which the APSA rests by engaging with select interventions made under each pillar. While the chapter concludes that the APSA has been proven to be an indispensable mechanism in addressing some conflicts, it also partly mirrors the past, present, and potential future of the large and fragmented continent it was designed for. The APSA is therefore not the penultimate representation of a collective security apparatus, but an evolving work in progress.
The European Union
Authors: Nanopoulos Eva
Published: March 2021

This chapter explores the European Union’s relationship and contribution to the international law of global security through the lens of ‘ambivalence’. The reasons for this approach are threefold. First, that relationship oscillates between symbiosis and friction. On the one hand, the European Union (EU) has been gradually integrated into the global security architecture. On the other hand, the EU, as a power bloc and ‘autonomous’ legal community, also provides a source of conflict with, disassociation from, or destabilization of, global security arrangements. Second, the interaction between EU law and global security law, as well as the substantive contribution of the EU to the law of global security, produces mixed results. Finally, the ambivalence of the EU as a ‘global security provider’ has also explanatory value when it comes to contemporary developments and challenges, particularly as they emerge from the EU’s response to the increased ‘questioning’ of the European project and the global liberal order more generally, and that cut across several aspects of global security.
Interpol—The International Criminal Police Organization
Authors: Gless Sabine , Zeitler Helge Elisabeth
Published: March 2021

This chapter studies the role of the International Criminal Police Organization, or Interpol, in the global security architecture. The turbulent history of Interpol can be seen in certain geopolitical controversies of the past, most prominently the Nazi takeover during the Second World War and its subsequent loss of significance during the Cold War. It was only after the 9/11 attacks that Interpol’s technical infrastructure and internal organization were overhauled and it was given a broader mandate to actively participate in the fight against terrorism. With an increasingly visible role in the global security architecture, Interpol is now viewed as an important stakeholder, cooperating closely with key players in the United Nations system as well as at regional and national levels, significantly influencing the global approach to fighting terrorism and other serious crimes. The chapter then examines Interpol’s authority to act and the relevant legal framework. It analyses recent developments and contemporary challenges for Interpol, which has risen from an association of police authorities to an international organization, increasingly engaging in activities that influence global security and can infringe on individual liberties and human rights.
Non-Governmental Organizations
Authors: Binder Christina
Published: March 2021

This chapter highlights the relevance and impact of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the international law of global security. Security is a complex concept in today’s ever-complicated world. The traditional State-centric approach to security has been complemented, albeit not replaced, by a more human-oriented aspect. Today, NGOs may participate in the security discourse as increasingly relevant stakeholders, ensuring that a focus on human rights and the common interests of humankind is maintained in security debates. The chapter considers the role of NGOs in global and regional security arrangements. It then looks at their contribution in the field of global security in terms of standard-setting, norm application, and interpretation, as well as with regard to compliance and enforcement, in areas where the individual is centre stage: international humanitarian law, international criminal law, and international human rights law. Finally, the chapter examines the applicable international legal framework regulating engagement by NGOs and assesses whether NGO practice has been influenced by the ever-changing global security landscape.
Vertex Green’s Functions of a Quarter-Plane: Links Between the Functional Equation, Additive Crossing and Lamé Functions
Authors: Assier R C , Shanin A V
Published: March 2021

In our previous work (R. C. Assier and A. V. Shanin, Q. J. Mech. Appl. Math., 72, 2019), we gave a new spectral formulation in two complex variables associated with the problem of plane-wave diffraction by a quarter-plane. In particular, we showed that the unknown spectral function satisfies a condition of additive crossing about its branch set. In this article, we study a very similar class of spectral problem and show how the additive crossing can be exploited in order to express its solution in terms of Lamé functions. The solutions obtained can be thought of as tailored vertex Green’s functions whose behaviours in the near-field are directly related to the eigenvalues of the Laplace–Beltrami operator. This is important since the correct near-field behaviour at the tip of the quarter-plane had so far never been obtained via a multivariable complex analysis approach.
Prevalence of Familial Mediterranean Fever in Children with Cryptogenic Cirrhosis
Authors: Varol Fatma İlknur , Tabel Yılmaz , Yoloğlu Saim , Yeşilada Elif
Published: March 2021

Background

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by abdominal and chest pain and recurrent fever due to inflammation in the serosal membranes such as peritoneum, pleura and synovia. In FMF, recurrent inflammatory cytokine production may lead to cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of FMF in children with cryptogenic cirrhosis and it was found to be high, to add FMF among the etiological causes of cirrhosis.

Materials and methods

This prospective cohort study conducted at the Hospital of İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey. In this study, 44 patients diagnosed with cryptogenic cirrhosis by biopsy, in the Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Clinic, were included, after the other reasons that may cause chronic liver disease were excluded. MEVF gene analysis was performed for all patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis.

Results

FMF genetic mutation was detected in 9 (20%) of 44 patients. M694V mutation was detected in one patient (2.27%) and E148Q homozygous mutation was detected in one patient (2.27%). Various other heterozygous mutations were detected in seven other patients. Homozygous and heterozygous R202Q mutations were detected in one patient.

Conclusion

We suggest that FMF plays a role in the etiologic differential diagnosis of cryptogenic cirrhosis.
Comparison of rotational thromboelastometry parameters with 20-minute whole blood clotting test as a predictor of envenoming in Russell's viper bite patients
Authors: Gooneratne Lallindra V , Dharmasena Iresha , Premawardana Nuwan , Wimalachandra Manujasri , Arya Roopen , Gnanathasan Ariaranee
Published: March 2021

Background

Coagulopathy is an important and common systemic clinical syndrome caused by snake envenoming. The major clinical effect of Russell's viper (RV) envenoming is haematotoxicity. The 20-min whole blood clotting test (WBCT20) is the standard test for identification of envenoming in resource-limited settings. However, its reliability as a diagnostic test has been questioned. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assays different phases of clot formation from initiation to fibrinolysis. Our objective was to compare parameters of ROTEM with WBCT20 and the international normalized ratio (INR) as predictors of envenoming in RV bite patients.

Methods

Fifty-three patents with RV bite presenting to Anuradhapura Hospital, Sri Lanka were recruited. Epidemiological and clinical data were obtained. Venous blood samples were collected at admission for ROTEM, INR and WBCT20.

Results

A total of 46 of 53 patients with RV bites received antivenom serum (AVS); 74% had a non-clottable WBCT20. All 46 had at least one abnormal ROTEM parameter and 93% had a prolonged EXTEM clotting time (EXTEM-CT). The sensitivity of a prolonged INR was only 55%.

Conclusions

EXTEM-CT is a better predictor of envenoming and the need for AVS than WBCT20 in RV bites (p=0.02). It provides a numerical value that can be used post-AVS to objectively assess the response and decide on further treatment.
Huangyusang decoction for Type 2 diabetes
Authors: He Peiyu , Zhang Junyin , Gao Tianyu , Wang Yingxiang , Peng Teng
Published: March 2021

Background:

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. In China, Huangyusang decoction (HYS) has been widely used to treat Type 2 diabetes. However, there is no systematic review found. In order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HYS in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, we need to conduct a meta-analysis and systematic evaluation.

Methods:

We will enroll the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness and safety of HYS in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Data come mainly from 4 Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang, CBM, and VIP Database) and 4 English databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of science). The enrollment of RCTs is from the starting date of database establishment till January 30, 2021. Fasting blood glucose is considered as the main indicator of the dyslipidemia, while the body mass index, glycated hemoglobin, fasting insulin, triglycerides, and cholesterol are regarded as the secondary indicators. There are safety indicators including liver enzyme and kidney function. The work such as selection of literature, data collection, quality evaluation of included literature, and assessment of publication bias will be conducted by 2 independent researchers. Meta-analysis will be performed by RevMan 5.0 software.

Results:

This study will provide high-quality evidence for the effectiveness and safety of HYS in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion:

The results of the study will help us determine whether HYS can effectively treat type 2 diabetes.

Ethics and dissemination:

This study does not require ethical approval. We will disseminate our findings by publishing results in a peer-reviewed journal.

OSF registration number:

DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/AXBRV.
A dynamic occupancy model for interacting species with two spatial scales
Authors: Kleiven Eivind F. , Barraquand Frédéric , Gimenez Olivier , Henden John-André , Ims Rolf A. , Soininen Eeva M. , Yoccoz Nigel G.
Published: March 2021

Occupancy models have been extended to account for either multiple spatial scales or species interactions in a dynamic setting. However, as interacting species (e.g., predators and prey) often operate at different spatial scales, including nested spatial structure might be especially relevant to models of interacting species. Here we bridge these two model frameworks by developing a multi-scale, two-species occupancy model. The model is dynamic, i.e. it estimates initial occupancy, colonization and extinction probabilities—including probabilities conditional to the other species’ presence. With a simulation study, we demonstrate that the model is able to estimate most parameters without marked bias under low, medium and high average occupancy probabilities, as well as low, medium and high detection probabilities, with only a small bias for some parameters in low-detection scenarios. We further evaluate the model’s ability to deal with sparse field data by applying it to a multi-scale camera trapping dataset on a mustelid-rodent predator-prey system. Most parameters are estimated with low uncertainty (i.e. narrow posterior distributions). More broadly, our model framework creates opportunities to explicitly account for the spatial structure found in many spatially nested study designs, and to study interacting species that have contrasting movement ranges with camera traps.
An Upsurge of SARS CoV-2 B.1.1.7 Variant in Pakistan
Authors: Umair Massab , Salman Muhammad , Rehman Zaira , Badar Nazish , Ahad Abdul , Ikram Aamer
Published: March 2021

The emergence of a more transmissible variant of SARS-CoV-2 (B1.1.7) in the United Kingdom (UK) during late 2020 has raised major public health concerns. Several mutations have been reported in the genome of the B.1.1.7 variant including the N501Y and 69-70deletion in the Spike that has implications on virus transmissibility and diagnostics. Although the B.1.1.7 variant has been reported from several countries, only two cases have been identified through whole-genome sequencing from Pakistan. We used a two-step strategy for the detection of B.1.1.7 with initial screening through ThermoFisher TaqPath™ SARS-CoV-2 kit followed by partial sequencing of Spike (S) gene of samples having spike gene target failure (SGTF) on real-time PCR. From January 01, 2021, to February 21, 2021, a total of 2,650 samples were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 using TaqPath™ kit and 70.4% (n=1,867) showed amplification of all the 3 genes (S, N, and ORF). Notably, 29.6% (n=783) samples had the spike gene target failure (SGTF). The SGTF cases were detected at a low frequency during the first three weeks of January (n=10, n=13, and n=1 respectively) however, the cases started to increase in the last week. During February, 726 (93%) cases of SGTF was reported with a peak (n=345) found during the 3rd week. Based on the partial sequencing of spike gene of SGTF samples (n=15), 93% (n=14) showed the characteristic N501Y, A570D, P681H, and T716I mutations found in the B.1.1.7 variant. Our findings highlight the high prevalence of B.1.1.7 in Pakistan and warrant large scale genomic surveillance and strengthening of laboratory network in the country.
Geographic disparities in COVID-19 case rates are not reflected in seropositivity rates using a neighborhood survey in Chicago
Authors: Mustanski Brian , Saber Rana , Ryan Daniel T. , Benbow Nanette , Madkins Krystal , Hayford Christina , Newcomb Michael E. , Schrock Joshua M. , Vaught Lauren A. , Reiser Nina L. , Velez Matthew P. , Hsieh Ryan , Demonbreun Alexis R. , D’Aquila Richard , McNally Elizabeth M. , McDade Thomas W.
Published: March 2021

To date, COVID-19 case rates are disproportionately higher in Black and Latinx communities across the U.S., leading to more hospitalizations and deaths in those communities. These differences in case rates are evident in comparisons of Chicago neighborhoods with differing race/ethnicities of their residents. Disparities could be due to neighborhoods with more adverse health outcomes associated with poverty and other social determinants of health experiencing higher prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection or due to greater morbidity and mortality resulting from equivalent SARS-CoV-2 infection prevalence. We surveyed five pairs of adjacent ZIP codes in Chicago with disparate COVID-19 case rates for highly specific and quantitative serological evidence of any prior infection by SARS-CoV-2 to compare with their disparate COVID-19 case rates. Dried blood spot samples were self-collected at home by internet-recruited participants in summer 2020, shortly after Chicago’s first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pairs of neighboring ZIP codes with very different COVID-19 case rates had similar seropositivity rates for anti-SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain IgG antibodies. Overall, these findings of comparable exposure to SARS-CoV-2 across neighborhoods with very disparate COVID-19 case rates are consistent with social determinants of health, and the comorbidities related to them, driving differences in COVID-19 rates across neighborhoods.
Ribosome-profiling reveals restricted post transcriptional expression of antiviral cytokines and transcription factors during SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Alexander Marina R. , Brice Aaron M. , van Vuren Petrus Jansen , Rootes Christina L. , Tribolet Leon , Cowled Christopher , Bean Andrew G. D. , Stewart Cameron R.
Published: March 2021

The global COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in over 2.2 million deaths. Disease outcomes range from asymptomatic to severe with, so far, minimal genotypic change to the virus so understanding the host response is paramount. Transcriptomics has become incredibly important in understanding host-pathogen interactions; however, post-transcriptional regulation plays an important role in infection and immunity through translation and mRNA stability, allowing tight control over potent host responses by both the host and the invading virus. Here we apply ribosome profiling to assess post-transcriptional regulation of host genes during SARS-CoV-2 infection of a human lung epithelial cell line (Calu-3). We have identified numerous transcription factors (JUN, ZBTB20, ATF3, HIVEP2 and EGR1) as well as select antiviral cytokine genes, namely IFNB1, IFNL1,2 and 3, IL-6 and CCL5, that are restricted at the post-transcriptional level by SARS-CoV-2 infection and discuss the impact this would have on the host response to infection. This early phase restriction of antiviral transcripts in the lungs may allow high viral load and consequent immune dysregulation typically seen in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Sugar transporters enable a leaf beetle to accumulate plant defense compounds
Authors: Yang Zhi-Ling , Nour-Eldin Hussam Hassan , Hänniger Sabine , Reichelt Michael , Crocoll Christoph , Seitz Fabian , Vogel Heiko , Beran Franziska
Published: March 2021

Many herbivorous insects selectively accumulate plant toxins for defense against predators; however, little is known about the transport processes that enable insects to absorb and store defense compounds in the body. Here, we investigate how a specialist herbivore, the horseradish flea beetle, accumulates high amounts of glucosinolate defense compounds in the hemolymph. Using phylogenetic analyses of coleopteran membrane transporters of the major facilitator superfamily, we identified a clade of glucosinolate-specific transporters (PaGTRs) belonging to the sugar porter family.PaGTRexpression was predominantly detected in the excretory system, the Malpighian tubules. Silencing ofPaGTRs led to elevated glucosinolate excretion, significantly reducing the levels of sequestered glucosinolates in beetles. This suggests thatPaGTRs reabsorb glucosinolates from the Malpighian tubule lumen to prevent their loss by excretion. Ramsay assays performed with dissected Malpighian tubules confirmed a selective retention of glucosinolates. Thus, the selective accumulation of plant defense compounds in herbivorous insects can depend on the ability to prevent excretion.
Multimeric nanobodies from camelid engineered mice and llamas potently neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Xu Jianliang , Xu Kai , Jung Seolkyoung , Conte Andrea , Lieberman Jenna , Muecksch Frauke , Cetrulo Lorenzi Julio Cesar , Park Solji , Wang Zijun , Tessarollo Lino , Bylund Tatsiana , Chuang Gwo-Yu , Olia Adam S. , Stephens Tyler , Teng I-Ting , Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Zhou Tongqing , Hatziioannou Theodora , Bieniasz Paul D. , Nussenzweig Michel C. , Kwong Peter D. , Casellas Rafael
Published: March 2021

Since the start of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused more than 2 million deaths worldwide. Multiple vaccines have been deployed to date, but the continual evolution of the viral receptor-binding domain (RBD) has recently challenged their efficacy. In particular, SARS-CoV-2 variants originating in the U.K. (B.1.1.7), South Africa (B.1.351) and New York (B.1.526) have reduced neutralization activity from convalescent sera and compromised the efficacy of antibody cocktails that received emergency use authorization. Whereas vaccines can be updated periodically to account for emerging variants, complementary strategies are urgently needed to avert viral escape. One potential alternative is the use of camelid VHHs (also known as nanobodies), which due to their small size can recognize protein crevices that are inaccessible to conventional antibodies. Here, we isolate anti-RBD nanobodies from llamas and “nanomice” we engineered to produce VHHs cloned from alpacas, dromedaries and camels. Through binding assays and cryo-electron microscopy, we identified two sets of highly neutralizing nanobodies. The first group expresses VHHs that circumvent RBD antigenic drift by recognizing a region outside the ACE2-binding site that is conserved in coronaviruses but is not typically targeted by monoclonal antibodies. The second group is almost exclusively focused to the RBD-ACE2 interface and fails to neutralize pseudoviruses carrying the E484K or N501Y substitutions. Notably however, they do neutralize the RBD variants when expressed as homotrimers, rivaling the most potent antibodies produced to date against SARS-CoV-2. These findings demonstrate that multivalent nanobodies overcome SARS-CoV-2 variant mutations through two separate mechanisms: enhanced avidity for the ACE2 binding domain, and recognition of conserved epitopes largely inaccessible to human antibodies. Therefore, while new SARS-CoV-2 mutants will continue to emerge, nanobodies represent promising tools to prevent COVID-19 mortality when vaccines are compromised.
SARS-CoV-2 viability in time on experimental surfaces
Authors: Nikiforova Maria A. , Siniavin Andrei E. , Shidlovskaya Elena V. , Kuznetsova Nadezhda A. , Gushchin Vladimir A.
Published: March 2021

We evaluated the SARS-CoV-2 viability preservation on different model surfaces over time. It was found that the SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected on all studied surfaces for 360 minutes, while the viability of the virus was completely lost after 120 minutes. Type of experimental surface significantly affects viability preservation.
A multiepitope fusion protein-based p-ELISA method for diagnosing bovine and goat brucellosis
Authors: Yin Dehui , Bai Qiongqiong , Wu Xiling , Li Han , Shao Jihong , Sun Mingjun , Zhang Jingpeng
Published: March 2021

In recent years, the incidence of brucellosis has increased annually, which has caused tremendous economic losses in agriculture and husbandry in various countries. Therefore, developing rapid, sensitive and specific diagnostic techniques for brucellosis has become critical brucellosis research. Bioinformatics technology was used to predict the B cell epitopes of the main antigen proteins ofBrucella, and the validity of each epitope was verified by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The verified epitopes were connected in series to construct a multiepitope fusion protein, goat, bovine brucellosis sera, and rabbit sera were collected to verify the antigenicity and specificity of this protein. Then, the fusion protein was used as a diagnostic antigen to construct paper-based ELISA (p-ELISA) technology. A total of 22 effective epitopes were predicted, and a fusion protein was successfully constructed, which showed good antigenicity and specificity. The constructed p-ELISA method was used for the simultaneous detection of bovine and goat brucellosis. ROC curve analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity of protein detection in goat serum were 98.85% and 98.51%, respectively. The positive and the negative predictive value was 99.29% and 98.15%, respectively. When assessing bovine serum, the sensitivity and specificity were 97.85% and 96.61%, respectively. The positive and the negative predictive value was 98.28% and 97.33%, respectively. This study combined bioinformatics, fusion protein development and p-ELISA technologies to establish a sensitive and specific rapid diagnosis technology for brucellosis that can be used to assess the serum of bovine, goats and other livestock.

IMPORTANCE

Brucellosis has caused tremendous economic losses in agriculture and husbandry in various countries. Therefore, developing rapid, sensitive and specific diagnostic techniques for brucellosis has become critical brucellosis research. In this study, we used immunoinformatic technology to predict the B cell epitopes in the major outer membrane proteins of Brucella, synthesized polypeptides and coupled them with KLH, screened these polypeptides by iELISA methods, selected effective polypeptides as diagnostic antigens, and established a p-ELISA for brucellosis diagnosis based on a multiepitope fusion protein that can be used to assess the serum of bovine, goats and other livestock.
Corrosive wear and electrochemical corrosion performances of arc sprayed Al coating in 3.5% NaCl solution
Authors: Li Peng , Huang Xiya , Kong Dejun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of load and speed on the corrosive wear performance of Al coating in 3.5% NaCl solution, which provided an experimental reference for the anti-corrosion engineering on offshore platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

A layer of Al coating was prepared on S355 steel using an arc spraying. The corrosive wear test was carried out with CFT–1 type surface property tester. The effects of load and speed on the corrosive wear performance of Al coating were investigated and the wear mechanism was also discussed. The electrochemical tests were conducted using a CHI660E type electrochemical workstation, the anti-corrosion mechanism was analyzed.

Findings

The average coefficient of frictions (COFs) of Al coating under loads of 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 N are 0.745, 0.847 and 0.423, the wear mechanism is abrasive wear. The average COFs of Al coating at the speeds of 200, 400 and 600 rpm are 0.745, 0.878 and 0.617, respectively, the wear mechanism at the speeds of 200 and 400 rpm are abrasive wear, while that at the speed of 600 rpm is abrasive wear and fatigue wear. The anti-corrosion mechanism is the isolation of Cl– corrosion and cathodic protection of sacrificial anode.

Originality/value

This paper mainly studied corrosive wear and electrochemical corrosion performances of Al coating. This study hereby confirms that this manuscript is the original work and has not been published nor has it been submitted simultaneously elsewhere. This paper further confirms that all authors have checked the manuscript and have agreed to the submission.
Mannequin fabrication methodology using 3D-scanning, modeling and printing
Authors: Oh Seolyoung , Suh Dongae
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper presents a method to fabricate a fitting-mannequin using 3D-scanning, modeling and printing technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

Scan data were obtained from 12 subjects with body size in the average range, selected from 208 women aged 20–29. The 3D-scan data were modified by selecting cross-sections from the cloud data, symmetrizing body shapes and obtaining mean points of body shapes. Fifteen spline curves, generated by connecting the mean points on the X–Y plane, were used as sketches and loft features to create the 3D mannequin models. A lower-body fitting mannequin was printed with polylactic acid plastic using a fused deposition-modeling 3D printer.

Findings

The cross-section circumference discrepancies among the 3D-printed mannequins in each step were within 1%, demonstrating the applicability and reliability of the 3D technologies proposed for mass customization.

Originality/value

The proposed methodology demonstrates the value of using 3D-scanning data to manufacture fitting-mannequins via mass customization. The study demonstrates the possibility and practicality of using 3D techniques to produce commercially viable fitting mannequins for the fashion industry.
Graphene oxide/epoxy acrylate nanocomposite production via SLA and importance of graphene oxide surface modification for mechanical properties
Authors: Uysal Emrah , Çakir Mustafa , Ekici Bülent
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Traditional nanocomposite production methods such as in situ polymerization, melt blending and solvent technique, have some deficits. Some of these are non-homogeneous particle distribution, setup difficulties, time-consuming and costly. On the other hand, three-dimensional printing technology is a quite popular method. Especially, Stereolithography (SLA) printing offers some benefits such as fast printing, easy setup and smooth surface specialties. Furthermore, surface modification of Graphene Oxide (GO) and its effects on polymer nanocomposites are quite important. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of surface modification of GO nanoparticles on the mechanical properties and morphology of epoxy acrylate (BisGMA/1,6 hexane diol diacrylate) matrix nanocomposites.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, Ultraviolet (UV) curable end groups of synthesized resin were linked to functional groups of graphene oxide, which are synthesized by the Tour method, which is a kind of modified Hummer method. In addition, synthesized GO nanoparticle’s surfaces were modified by 3-(methacryloyloxy) propyl trimethoxysilane. Significant weight percentages of GO were added into the epoxy acrylate resin. Different Wt.% of modified graphene oxide/acrylate resins was used to print test specimens with SLA type three-dimensional printer.

Findings

Surface modification has a significant effect on tensile strength for graphene oxide nanoparticles contained composites. In addition, a specific trend was not observed for tensile test results of non-modified graphene oxide. The tendency of impact and hardness test finding were similar for both surfaces modified and non-modified nanoparticles. Finally, the distribution of particles was homogeneous.

Originality/value

This paper is unique because of the inclusion of both surface modifications of graphene oxide nanoparticles and SLA production of nanocomposites with its own production of three-dimensional printer and photocurable polymer resin.
Exploring trust in the boardroom: the case of Nordic region
Authors: Pastra Aspasia , Koufopoulos Dimitrios N. , Skintzi Vasiliki , Johansson Tafsir , Samac Nikola
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the relationship between the trust of executives in their board, board effectiveness (board performance and strategic decision quality) and organizational performance (financial and operational performance).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 184 board members in the Nordic region, using cross-sectional research design. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the validity of the used scales, whereas correlational analysis and mediation analysis via PROCESS macro in SPSS were used for testing of the hypotheses.

Findings

Trust between board members is positively correlated with both dimensions of board effectiveness and both tested dimensions of organizational performance. Besides, trust between the board members positively affects both financial and operational performance (significant total effects in mediation analysis). However, trust had a direct effect only on financial performance, whereas it shows an indirect effect on operational performance through both mediators, board performance and strategic decision quality.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should investigate trust into the board using a longitudinal design, and expand the sample cross-culturally, and control for the influence of other interpersonal variables in board members.

Practical implications

The development of trust in work relationships serves as the foundation for the establishment of significant team and organizational benefits. Business leaders should take into consideration trust issues in business teams and cultivate a trust culture in their organizations.

Social implications

The findings advance theoretical, social and empirical understanding of trust of executives in their board and its effect on board performance, strategic decision quality and perceived performance. The development of trust in work relationships enhances team performance, networks with strategic partners, community and government, and serves as the foundation for the establishment of trust in the society.

Originality/value

This is one of the scarce studies that examines direct and indirect effects of trust in board and organizational outcomes.
Trade openness, FDI, and income inequality: Evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Xu Chenghong , Han Mingming , Dossou Toyo Amegnonna Marcel , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: March 2021

The motivation for this study stems from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN‐SDGs) and their impact by 2030. The UN highlights 17 SDGs that address pertinent local and global issues, one of which—SDG‐10—has been devoted to reducing inequality. This study investigates the nexus between trade openness, foreign direct investment (FDI), and income inequality in sub‐Saharan Africa using panel data from 2000 to 2015 and the generalized method of moment (GMM) technique approach. The findings show that FDI and income have a negative, statistically significant relationship with income inequality, signifying that as FDI and income per capita increase, the level of income inequality decreases. However, trade openness, education, political stability, corruption, and rule of law have a positive, statistically significant relationship with inequality. This study, therefore, offers some recommendations that will help policymakers. First, develop good policies to attract more foreign investors, which will contribute to creating employment opportunities in the region. Second, create more infrastructures to provide good quality education. Third, implement a good policy to motivate local production which will contribute to creating jobs. Fourth, build a strong institution(s) to fight against corruption.
U.S. conservation translocations: Over a century of intended consequences
Authors: Novak Ben J. , Phelan Ryan , Weber Michele
Published: March 2021

Conservation translocations (reintroductions, reinforcements, ecological replacements, and assisted colonization) have played a vital and necessary role in conserving endangered species and ecosystems. Yet concerns over potential unintended ecological consequences frequently hinder the progress of translocation activities. We reviewed the history of U.S. translocations to ask: how often were intended benefits the result versus harmful unintended consequences? We found that translocations played a key role in recovery for 30% (14 of 47) of U.S. delisted taxa. Translocations have been performed, are planned, or are part of continuing recovery actions for 70% (1,112 of 1,580) of listed threatened and endangered taxa. Of the 1,014 total taxa we found with recorded conservation translocations spanning 125 years, we found only one restricted instance that caused a loss of biodiversity. All other reports of negative consequences were caused by translocations performed for economic and cultural interests in the absence of conservation‐based governance. Examples included fish stocking for sport and biological control programs for agricultural pests. We included biological control programs in this analysis because they can be and often are used as conservation tools, to directly benefit ecosystems. In addition, they are often raised as examples of harmful unintended results during the conservation planning process. However, only 1.4% (42) of 3,014 biological control agents released globally have caused ecosystem‐level deleterious impacts. All of these were initially released before the 1980s and conservation‐based practice and governance in recent decades have reduced off‐target impacts from biological control practice. Two themes emerged from our review: (a) conservation translocations routinely yielded their intended benefits without producing unintended harm, and (b) when ecological damage did occur, it was in the absence of conservation practice and regulation. This evidence shows that well‐planned translocation efforts produce ecosystem benefits, which should be weighed against the costs of inaction when deliberating conservation strategies.
Selection against individuals from genetic introgression of escaped farmed salmon in a natural population of Atlantic salmon
Authors: Wacker Sebastian , Aronsen Tonje , Karlsson Sten , Ugedal Ola , Diserud Ola H. , Ulvan Eva M. , Hindar Kjetil , Næsje Tor F.
Published: March 2021

The viability of wild Atlantic salmon populations is threatened by genetic introgression from escaped farmed salmon. Farmed Atlantic salmon are genetically improved for important commercial traits and a life in captivity but are poorly adapted to the natural environment. The rate of gene flow from escaped farmed to wild salmon depends on their spawning success and on offspring survival at various life stages. We here investigate relative survival of introgressed juvenile Atlantic salmon (parr) in a river in northern Norway. The studied population has experienced genetic introgression from farmed salmon for about four generations (20 years). We followed two cohorts of parr from the year of hatching (0+) to the age of 2 years (2+). Farmed genetic introgression was quantified at the individual level and on a continuous scale using diagnostic SNPs. Population‐level genetic introgression decreased from 0+ to 2+ by 64% (2011 cohort) and 37% (2013 cohort). This change was driven by a 70% (2011 cohort) and 49% (2013 cohort) lower survival from age 0+ to 2+ in introgressed parr compared to parr of wild origin. Our observations show that there is natural selection against genetic introgression with a potential cost of lower productivity.
Which glucose parameter best predicts poor outcome after mechanical thrombectomy for acute large vessel occlusion stroke?
Authors: Li Xiandong , Li Chao , Shi Mingchao , Qu Yang , Huo Longwen , Hao Zeyu , Yue Feixue , Gan Lin , Wang Shouchun
Published: March 2021

Background

Hyperglycaemia is related to adverse outcomes in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) treated with mechanical thrombectomy (MT).

Aims

To compare the predictive ability of admission blood glucose (ABG), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients with acute large vessel occlusion (ALVO) stroke undergoing MT.

Methods

The study retrospectively analysed the data of 329 consecutive acute stroke patients treated with MT. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the predictors of poor functional outcome. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify the predictive ability of ABG, FBG and HbA1c for poor functional independence in patients with ALVO stroke undergoing MT. In addition, subgroup analyses were performed for both diabetic and non‐diabetic patients.

Results

Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that ABG and FBG were independent predictors of 3‐month poor functional outcome; however, HbA1c could not predict poor functional outcome. ROC analysis showed that FBG has a higher predictive ability than ABG (areas under the ROC curve (AUC): 0.689 vs 0.624; P = 0.037) and HbA1c (AUC: 0.689 vs 0.541; P < 0.001) for poor function outcome.

Conclusions

ABG and FBG are independent predictors of poor functional outcome in patients with AIS undergoing MT, and FBG has a higher predictive ability than ABG and HbA1c.
Decision‐making experiences of young adults with long‐term conditions
Authors: Ofori‐Ansah Sarah , Evans Michelle , Jones Janice , Thomas Nicola
Published: March 2021

Background

Young adults with long‐term conditions can struggle to accept their diagnosis and can become overwhelmed with managing their condition. Suboptimal transfer from paediatric to adult services with a resultant disengagement with the service can result in less involvement in care and decision‐making. Shared decision‐making can improve involvement in health decisions and increase satisfaction with treatment/therapy and care.

Objectives

An integrative literature review was conducted to explore and understand young adults’ experiences of decision‐making in health care.

Design

An integrative literature review.

Data Sources

CINAHL, EMCARE, PsycINFO, HMIC, EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCOHOST and COCHRANE databases were searched for relevant literature published between January 1999 and January 2020.

Findings

Thirteen primary research papers met the inclusion criteria. Four main themes were identified: (1) Information delivery and communication; (2) participation in decision‐making; (3) social factors influencing decision‐making and (4) emotional impact of decision‐making.

Conclusions

Young adults with long‐term conditions have specific decision‐making needs which can impact their emotional health. Research with a specific focus on young adults’ experiences of decision‐making in health care is needed.