bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Norovirus Reduction in Environmentally Contaminated Pacific Oysters During Laboratory Controlled and Commercial Depuration
Authors: Rupnik Agnieszka , Doré William , Devilly Leon , Fahy James , Fitzpatrick Amy , Schmidt Wiebke , Hunt Kevin , Butler Francis , Keaveney Sinéad
Published: March 2021

Norovirus contamination of oysters is the lead cause of non-bacterial gastroenteritis and a significant food safety concern for the oyster industry. Here, norovirus reduction from Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas), contaminated in the marine environment, was studied in laboratory depuration trials and in two commercial settings. Norovirus concentrations were measured in oyster digestive tissue before, during and post-depuration using the ISO 15216-1 quantitative real-time RT-PCR method. Results of the laboratory-based studies demonstrate that statistically significant reductions of up to 74% of the initial norovirus GII concentration was achieved after 3 days at 17–21 °C and after 4 days at 11–15 °C, compared to 44% reduction at 7–9 °C. In many trials norovirus GII concentrations were reduced to levels below 100 genome copies per gram (gcg−1; limit of quantitation; LOQ). Virus reduction was also assessed in commercial depuration systems, routinely used by two Irish oyster producers. Up to 68% reduction was recorded for norovirus GI and up to 90% for norovirus GII reducing the geometric mean virus concentration close to or below the LOQ. In both commercial settings there was a significant difference between the levels of reduction of norovirus GI compared to GII (p < 0.05). Additionally, the ability to reduce the norovirus concentration in oysters to < LOQ differed when contaminated with concentrations below and above 1000 gcg−1. These results indicate that depuration, carried out at elevated (> 11 °C) water temperatures for at least 3 days, can reduce the concentration of norovirus in oysters and therefore consumer exposure providing a practical risk management tool for the shellfish industry.
Norovirus Extraction from Frozen Raspberries Using Magnetic Silica Beads
Authors: Raymond Philippe , Paul Sylvianne , Perron André , Deschênes Louise
Published: March 2021

Human noroviruses (HuNoV) are among the main causes of acute gastroenteritis worldwide. Frozen raspberries have been linked to several HuNoV food-related outbreaks. However, the extraction of HuNoV RNA from frozen raspberries remains challenging. Recovery yields are low, and real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-qPCR) inhibitors limit the sensitivity of the detection methodologies. A new approach using fine magnetic silica beads was developed for the extraction of HuNoV spiked on frozen raspberries. Relatively low recovery yields were observed with both the magnetic silica bead and the reference ISO 15216-1:2017 methods. High RT-qPCR inhibition was observed with the ISO 15216-1:2017 recommended amplification kit but could be reduced by using an alternative kit. Reducing RT-qPCR inhibition is important to limit the number of inconclusive HuNoV assays thus increasing the capacity to assess the HuNoV prevalence in frozen raspberries.
Optimality conditions for nonconvex problems over nearly convex feasible sets
Authors: Ghafari N. , Mohebi H.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we study the optimization problem (P) of minimizing a convex function over a constraint set with nonconvex constraint functions. We do this by given new characterizations of Robinson’s constraint qualification, which reduces to the combination of generalized Slater’s condition and generalized sharpened nondegeneracy condition for nonconvex programming problems with nearly convex feasible sets at a reference point. Next, using a version of the strong CHIP, we present a constraint qualification which is necessary for optimality of the problem (P). Finally, using new characterizations of Robinson’s constraint qualification, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for optimality of the problem (P).
Fat classes of welded steel details derived from the master design curve of the peak stress method
Authors: Zanetti Michele , Babini Vittorio , Meneghetti Giovanni
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the peak stress method (PSM) is adopted to analyse the fatigue strength of steel welded joints. According to this method, a single design curve is expressed in terms of a properly defined equivalent peak stress and it is valid for fatigue design of arc-welded steel joints. Private companies often need simple finite element beam models for fatigue strength assessments, because of the large dimensions of the structures. However, beam elements provide nominal stresses (and not local stresses) that must be compared with appropriate fatigue strength values (the FAT classes) available in design standards. Due to the limited number of FAT classes available, finding the appropriate one is frequently troublesome, particularly when complex geometries are considered. The objective of this work is to define FAT classes in terms of nominal stress for a number of geometrically complex structural details, starting from the design curve of the PSM. FAT classes have also been determined using the hot spot stress approach. Then the results obtained with the two methods are compared. The structural details analysed in the present paper are typically adopted in amusement park structures and are not classified in common design standards.
Solar force-free magnetic fields
Authors: Wiegelmann Thomas , Sakurai Takashi
Published: March 2021

The structure and dynamics of the solar corona is dominated by the magnetic field. In most areas in the corona magnetic forces are so dominant that all non-magnetic forces such as plasma pressure gradients and gravity can be neglected in the lowest order. This model assumption is called the force-free field assumption, as the Lorentz force vanishes. This can be obtained by either vanishing electric currents (leading to potential fields) or the currents are co-aligned with the magnetic field lines. First we discuss a mathematically simpler approach that the magnetic field and currents are proportional with one global constant, the so-called linear force-free field approximation. In the generic case, however, the relationship between magnetic fields and electric currents is nonlinear and analytic solutions have been only found for special cases, like 1D or 2D configurations. For constructing realistic nonlinear force-free coronal magnetic field models in 3D, sophisticated numerical computations are required and boundary conditions must be obtained from measurements of the magnetic field vector in the solar photosphere. This approach is currently a large area of research, as accurate measurements of the photospheric field are available from ground-based observatories such as the Synoptic Optical Long-term Investigations of the Sun and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) and space-born, e.g., from Hinode and the Solar Dynamics Observatory. If we can obtain accurate force-free coronal magnetic field models we can calculate the free magnetic energy in the corona, a quantity which is important for the prediction of flares and coronal mass ejections. Knowledge of the 3D structure of magnetic field lines also help us to interpret other coronal observations, e.g., EUV images of the radiating coronal plasma.
The Origins of the Bible and Early Modern Political Thought
Authors: DeCook Travis
Published: March 2021

In this book, Travis DeCook explores the theological and political innovations found in early modern accounts of the Bible's origins. In the charged climate produced by the Reformation and humanist historicism, writers grappled with the tension between the Bible's divine and human aspects, and they produced innovative narratives regarding the agencies and processes through which the Bible came into existence and was transmitted. DeCook investigates how these accounts of Scripture's production were taken up beyond the expected boundaries of biblical study, and were redeployed as the theological basis for wide-reaching arguments about the proper ordering of human life. DeCook provides a new, critical perspective on ideas regarding secularity, secularization, and modernity, challenging the dominant narratives regarding the Bible's role in these processes. He shows how these engagements with the Bible's origins prompt a rethinking of formulations of secularity and secularization in our own time.
Isotopic Evidence for Long-Distance Connections of the AD Thirteenth-Century Promontory Caves Occupants
Authors: Metcalfe Jessica Z. , Ives John W. , Shirazi Sabrina , Gilmore Kevin P. , Hallson Jennifer , Brock Fiona , Clark Bonnie J. , Shapiro Beth
Published: March 2021

The Promontory caves (Utah) and Franktown Cave (Colorado) contain high-fidelity records of short-term occupations by groups with material culture connections to the Subarctic/Northern Plains. This research uses Promontory and Franktown bison dung, hair, hide, and bone collagen to establish local baseline carbon isotopic variability and identify leather from a distant source. The ankle wrap of one Promontory Cave 1 moccasin had a δ13C value that indicates a substantial C4component to the animal's diet, unlike the C3diets inferred from 171 other Promontory and northern Utah bison samples. We draw on a unique combination of multitissue isotopic analysis, carbon isoscapes, ancient DNA (species and sex identification), tissue turnover rates, archaeological contexts, and bison ecology to show that the high δ13C value was not likely a result of local plant consumption, bison mobility, or trade. Instead, the bison hide was likely acquired via long-distance travel to/from an area of abundant C4grasses far to the south or east. Expansive landscape knowledge gained through long-distance associations would have allowed Promontory caves inhabitants to make well-informed decisions about directions and routes of movement for a territorial shift, which seems to have occurred in the late thirteenth century.
Do Targeted Trade Sanctions Against Chinese Technology Companies Affect US Firms? Evidence from an Event Study
Authors: Allen Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2021

This article asks how costly targeted trade sanctions imposed by the US government are for domestic firms. I argue that, as a result of sanctions, the firm value of US companies that have supply relationships with sanctioned entities is likely to suffer from lost revenue, reputational damage, and business model uncertainty. I test this expectation by applying an event study to the important case of targeted trade sanctions against Chinese technology companies. I find that sanctions against these companies reduced their US suppliers’ risk-adjusted stock returns by 220 basis points. Firm-level cross-sectional analysis shows that businesses with stronger ties to the sanctioned entities are more negatively affected, which supports the direct connection between sanctions and relevant suppliers. Measuring the domestic economic ramifications of sanctions for the sender country has been elusive. These findings, which are statistically and economically significant, indicate that US companies face notable costs from sanctions against internationally active firms.
Does Corruption Lead to Lower Subnational Credit Ratings? Fiscal Dependence, Market Reputation, and the Cost of Debt
Authors: Sychowiec Maciej , Bauhr Monika , Charron Nicholas
Published: March 2021

While studies show a consistent negative relationship between the level of corruption and range indicators of national-level economic performance, including sovereign credit ratings, we know less about the relationship between corruption and subnational credit ratings. This study suggests that federal transfers allow states with higher levels of corruption to retain good credit ratings, despite the negative economic implications of corruption more broadly, which also allows them to continue to borrow at low costs. Using data on corruption conviction in US states and credit ratings between 2001 and 2015, we show that corruption does not directly reduce credit ratings on average. We find, however, heterogeneous effects, in that there is a negative effect of corruption on credit ratings only in states that have a comparatively low level of fiscal dependence on federal transfers. This suggest that while less dependent states are punished by international assessors when seen as more corrupt, corruption does not affect the ratings of states with higher levels of fiscal dependence on federal revenue.
Does the expectation of having to look after parents in the future affect current fertility?
Authors: Sakata Kei , McKenzie C. R.
Published: March 2021

This paper argues that the expectation of having to provide care for aging parents in the future may be a major factor contributing to the current low fertility rate in Japan. Using data from the 1998 and 2008 National Family Research of Japan (NFRJ) surveys and a Poisson-logit hurdle model, this paper examines whether the expectation of having to look after parents in the future affects a couple's current family planning. The first-stage model of a couple's family planning decision is a logit model which examines the decision of whether or not to have any children, and then in the second stage a Poisson model is applied to explain the number of children a couple has conditional on the couple having at least one child. The empirical evidence presented suggests that there are strong generational effects, and that for the post-war cohort, an increase in the probability of having to look after a parent increases the probability of a couple being childless.
Higher rank K-theoretic Donaldson-Thomas Theory of points
Authors: Fasola Nadir , Monavari Sergej , Ricolfi Andrea T.
Published: March 2021

We exploit the critical structure on the Quot scheme$\text {Quot}_{{{\mathbb {A}}}^3}({\mathscr {O}}^{\oplus r}\!,n)$, in particular the associated symmetric obstruction theory, in order to study rankr K-theoreticDonaldson-Thomas (DT) invariants of the local Calabi-Yau$3$-fold${{\mathbb {A}}}^3$. We compute the associated partition function as a plethystic exponential, proving a conjecture proposed in string theory by Awata-Kanno and Benini-Bonelli-Poggi-Tanzini. A crucial step in the proof is the fact, nontrival if$r>1$, that the invariants do not depend on the equivariant parameters of the framing torus$({{\mathbb {C}}}^\ast )^r$. Reducing from K-theoretic tocohomologicalinvariants, we compute the corresponding DT invariants, proving a conjecture of Szabo. Reducing further toenumerativeDT invariants, we solve the higher rank DT theory of a pair$(X,F)$, whereFis an equivariant exceptional locally free sheaf on a projective toric$3$-foldX.

As a further refinement of the K-theoretic DT invariants, we formulate a mathematical definition of the chiral elliptic genus studied in physics. This allows us to defineelliptic DT invariantsof${{\mathbb {A}}}^3$in arbitrary rank, which we use to tackle a conjecture of Benini-Bonelli-Poggi-Tanzini.
Role of microstructure and composition on natural convection during ternary alloy solidification
Authors: Kumar Virkeshwar , Srivastava Atul , Karagadde Shyamprasad
Published: March 2021

Solidifying ternary systems can exhibit complex natural convection phenomena, particularly due to the presence of two porous zones (cotectic and primary mush), and the rejection of two differently dense solutes. The primary objectives of this study are to investigate the following: (i) the natural convection patterns in various compositional regimes of a typical ternary system, and (ii) the role of the combined existence of the microstructure (facets and dendrites) in the porous zone on natural convection, with a motivation to enhance the current understanding of the microstructure–convection relationships. A ternary mixture is chosen such that different compositions of the three primary solidifying components lead to the formation of distinct ice, dendritic and faceted solid structures that cover the complete span of microstructure–convection relationships. The observations of flow in different compositional regimes show convection occurring in the form of plumes, random mixing and double-diffusive layering, as well as combinations of these, which are governed by the type of coexisting microstructures. The study reveals the occurrence of Rayleigh–Taylor instability with varying amounts of the heavier component. The bulk liquid composition showed a tendency to cross the cotectic line, and thus also change the nature of primary solidifying structure from faceted to dendritic in cases where facets and dendrites were present in cotectic mush, and facets in primary mush. These insights are believed to elucidate the complex mechanisms of ternary solidification, as well as provide important real-time data for direct numerical simulations.
Bahl Šahastan in the land of the K‘ušans: Medieval Armenian memories of Balkh as an Arsacid capital
Authors: Vacca Alison
Published: March 2021

This paper explores the medieval Armenian understanding of the city of Balkh as a capital of the Arsacid Empire. Medieval Armenian sources employ four strategies of remembrance: scriptural geography, genealogy, folk etymology, and origin stories. These strategies invest the city of Balkh as the source of power of both Armenian royalty and nobility, through their connections to the Great Arsacids. There are two main themes in the descriptions of Balkh. First, the Arsacids of Balkh consistently decimated Sasanian armies in ways that the Armenian Arsacids could not emulate. Second, Balkh emerges as a refuge for (usually Parthian) rebels against the Chinese and Persian Empires. This paper explores the significance of Balkh as a site of memory by placing Armenian constructions of the Great Arsacid past (with some potential echoes of Great Kushan and Kushano-Sasanian history) into dialogue with the history of the city as it appears in Arabic.
Disrupted caregiving behavior as a mediator of the relation between disrupted prenatal maternal representations and toddler social–emotional functioning
Authors: Guyon-Harris Katherine L. , Ahlfs-Dunn Sarah M. , Madigan Sheri , Bronfman Elisa , Benoit Diane , Huth-Bocks Alissa C.
Published: March 2021

The development of maternal representations of the child during pregnancy guides a mother’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior toward her child. The association between prenatal representations, particularly those that are disrupted, and toddler social-emotional functioning is not well understood. The present study examined associations between disrupted prenatal representations and toddler social-emotional functioning and to test disrupted maternal behavior as a mediator of this association. Data were drawn from 109 women from a larger prospective longitudinal study (N=120) of women and their young children. Prenatal disrupted maternal representations were assessed using the Working Model of the Child Interview disrupted coding scheme, while disrupted maternal behavior was coded 12-months postpartum from mother-infant interactions. Mother-reported toddler social-emotional functioning was assessed at ages 12 and 24 months. Disrupted prenatal representations significantly predicted poorer toddler social-emotional functioning at 24 months, controlling for functioning at 12 months. Further, disrupted maternal behavior mediated the relation between disrupted prenatal representations and toddler social-emotional problems. Screening for disrupted representations during pregnancy is needed to facilitate referrals to early intervention and decrease the likelihood of toddler social-emotional problems.
The IFRS 17 contractual service margin: a life insurance perspective
Authors: Yousuf W. , Stansfield J. , Malde K. , Mirin N. , Walton R. , Thorpe B. , Thorpe J. , Iftode C. , Tan L. , Dyble R. , Pelsser A. , Ghosh A. , Qin W. , Berry T. , Er C.
Published: March 2021

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts is a new accounting standard currently expected to come into force on 1 January 2023. It supersedes IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts. IFRS 17 establishes key principles that entities must apply in all aspects of the accounting of insurance contracts. In doing so, the Standard aims to increase the usefulness, comparability, transparency and quality of financial statements.

A fundamental concept introduced by IFRS 17 is the contractual service margin (CSM). This represents the unearned profit that an entity expects to earn as it provides services. However, as a principles-based standard, IFRS 17 results in entities having to apply significant judgement when determining the inputs, assumptions and techniques it uses to determine the CSM at each reporting period.

In general, the Standard resolves broad categories of mismatches which arise under IFRS 4. Notable examples include mismatches between assets recorded at current market value and liabilities calculated using fixed discount rates as well as inconsistencies in the timing of profit recognition over the duration of an insurance contract. However, there are requirements of IFRS 17 that may create economic or accounting mismatches of its own. For example, new mismatches could arise between the measurement of underlying contracts and the corresponding reinsurance held. Additionally, mismatches can still arise between the measurement of liabilities and the assets that support the liabilities.

This paper explores the technical, operational and commercial issues that arise across these and other areas focusing on the CSM. As a standard that is still very much in its infancy, and for which wider consensus on topics is yet to be achieved, this paper aims to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the issues and opportunities that accompany it.
Extracting information from textual descriptions for actuarial applications
Authors: Manski Scott , Yang Kaixu , Lee Gee Y. , Maiti Tapabrata
Published: March 2021

Initial insurance losses are often reported with a textual description of the claim. The claims manager must determine the adequate case reserve for each known claim. In this paper, we present a framework for predicting the amount of loss given a textual description of the claim using a large number of words found in the descriptions. Prior work has focused on classifying insurance claims based on keywords selected by a human expert, whereas in this paper the focus is on loss amount prediction with automatic word selection. In order to transform words into numeric vectors, we use word cosine similarities and word embedding matrices. When we consider all unique words found in the training dataset and impose a generalised additive model to the resulting explanatory variables, the resulting design matrix is high dimensional. For this reason, we use a group lasso penalty to reduce the number of coefficients in the model. The scalable, analytical framework proposed provides for a parsimonious and interpretable model. Finally, we discuss the implications of the analysis, including how the framework may be used by an insurance company and how the interpretation of the covariates can lead to significant policy change. The code can be found in the TAGAM R package (github.com/scottmanski/TAGAM).
The fetal origins of disease: a prospective cohort study on the association of preeclampsia and childhood obesity
Authors: Palma dos Reis Catarina R. , Serrano Fátima , Fonseca Maria João , Martins Ana Teresa , Campos Ana , McMahon Gearoid M. , Barros Henrique
Published: March 2021

Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of mortality worldwide, and childhood excess weight/obesity are strong correlators of accumulated risk in later life. A relationship between maternal preeclampsia and offspring’s childhood obesity is recognized, but most studies fail to control for strong confounders. Our goal is to analyze the association between preeclampsia and childhood excess weight/obesity, after accounting for important confounders. We recruited 5133 women with singleton pregnancies during admission for delivery. Sixty-seven pregnancies were complicated by preeclampsia. Maternal and children outcomes were assessed at 10 years of age. We analyzed the association between preeclampsia and childhood excess weight/obesity by fitting a linear regression model (using offspring body mass index (BMI) z-score at 10 years of age) and a logistic regression model (using excess weight/obesity status). We then controlled both models for known confounders, namely maternal prepregnancy BMI, parity, and smoking during pregnancy. At 10 years of age, offspring of preeclamptic mothers had a higher BMI z-score and were more likely classified as overweight/obese, but these differences were not statistically significant. After controlling for maternal prepregnancy BMI, parity, and smoking during pregnancy, there was a high magnitude change in the beta coefficient of preeclampsia in the linear (0.175; −0.014) and the logistic regression models (1.48; 1.23) suggesting that the association between preeclampsia and childhood excess weigh/obesity is significantly confounded by these variables. These confounders also showed a significant association with childhood obesity. This finding suggests that in utero exposure to preeclampsia seems to have less impact in childhood obesity than the previously described confounders.
Novel sensor-based method (quick test) for the in-season rapid evaluation of herbicide efficacy under real field conditions in durum wheat
Authors: Travlos Ilias , Tsekoura Anastasia , Antonopoulos Nikolaos , Kanatas Panagiotis , Gazoulis Ioannis
Published: March 2021

Optimum herbicide use is a key factor affecting the success of any integrated weed management strategy. The main objective of the current study was to implement a method based on spectrometer measurements for the in situ evaluation of herbicide efficacy and the detection of potentially herbicide-resistant weeds. Field trials were conducted in Greece between 2018 and 2020 in several durum wheat fields (Triticum durum Desf.). In all trials, the overall effect of herbicide application on the recorded Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values (at 1 and 2 wk after treatment [WAT]) was significant (P ≤ 0.001). For the majority of the surveyed fields, low NDVI values were recorded after 2,4-D application and a mixture of clopyralid + florasulam from 1 WAT, suggesting their increased efficacy. In several cases, the application of pyroxsulam + florasulam resulted in significant NDVI reductions at 2 WAT. As observed at the end of the growing seasons, the herbicides that reduced NDVI resulted in lower weed biomass. Strong correlations were observed between weed aboveground biomass and NDVI (2 WAT). In particular, R2 values were 0.8234 to 0.8649, 0.8453, 0.8595, 0.8149, and 0.8925 for the Aliartos, Thiva, Domokos, Larissa, and Orestiada fields, respectively. The overall effects of herbicide application on wheat grain yield were also significant (P ≤ 0.001). Pot experiments confirmed that the high NDVI values in some cases could be attributed to the presence of herbicide-resistant weeds. For instance, the resistance indices of two accessions of catchweed bedstraw (Galium aparine L.) to mesosulfuron-methyl + iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium ranged between 9.7 and 13.2, whereas one sterile oat [Avena sterilis L. ssp. ludoviciana (Durieu) Gillet & Magne] accession was 8.8 times more resistant to fenoxaprop-p-ethyl than a susceptible one. The present study is targeted at making a significant contribution toward establishing cause–effect relationships and presenting a useful tool for developing more effective weed management practices in more arable crops and under different soil and climatic conditions.
Validity of the Personal Suicide Stigma Questionnaire in a Community	Sample
Authors: Rimkeviciene Jurgita , Mok Katherine , Shand Fiona , Hawgood Jacinta , O’Gorman John
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The Personal Suicide Stigma Questionnaire (PSSQ) is a new scale assessing the experience of stigma in those who have been suicidal. This study examined the construct validity of the scale using a sample of participants from the general community who reported being suicidal at some point in their lives ( N = 3,947). The Distress Questionnaire – 5 and the Suicidal Ideation Attributes Scale were used to assess the severity of distress and suicidality. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed a three-factor model (Rejection, Minimization, Self-Blame) with one general Personal Stigma factor influencing the three first-order factors, which best fit the data. Scalar invariance was reached for both age and gender. The same factor structure was maintained when the format of the scale was altered for a subsample to provide a “not applicable” option for each item. PSSQ total score remained a significant predictor of distress after suicidality and demographic variables were accounted for. The PSSQ and its subscales can be used for the assessment of personal suicide stigma.
You Can Play the Game Without Knowing the Rules – But	You’re Better Off Knowing Them
Authors: Levacher Julie , Koch Marco , Hissbach Johanna , Spinath Frank M. , Becker Nicolas
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Due to their high item difficulties and excellent psychometric properties, construction-based figural matrices tasks are of particular interest when it comes to high-stakes testing. An important prerequisite is that test preparation – which is likely to occur in this context – does not impair test fairness or item properties. The goal of this study was to provide initial evidence concerning the influence of test preparation. We administered test items to a sample of N = 882 participants divided into two groups, but only one group was given information about the rules employed in the test items. The probability of solving the items was significantly higher in the test preparation group than in the control group ( M = 0.61, SD = 0.19 vs. M = 0.41, SD = 0.25; t(54) = 3.42, p = .001; d = .92). Nevertheless, a multigroup confirmatory factor analysis, as well as a differential item functioning analysis, indicated no differences between the item properties in the two groups. The results suggest that construction-based figural matrices are suitable in the context of high-stakes testing when all participants are provided with test preparation material so that test fairness is ensured.
Does an Overall Job Crafting Dimension Exist?
Authors: Zampetakis Leonidas A.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Job crafting is a multidimensional construct that can be conceptualized both at the general level and at the daily level. Several researchers have used aggregated scores across the dimensions of job crafting, to represent an overall job crafting construct. The purpose of the research presented herein is to investigate the factor structure of the general and daily versions of the job crafting scale developed by Petrou et al., (2012) (PJCS), using parametric multidimensional Item Response Theory (IRT) models. A sample of 675 employees working on different occupational sectors completed the Greek version of the scales. Results are in line with theoretical underpinnings and suggest that, although a bifactor IRT model offers an adequate fit, a correlated factors IRT model is more appropriate for both versions of the PJCS. Results caution against using aggregated scores across the dimensions of PJCS for both the general and daily versions.
Factors influencing home blood pressure monitor ownership in a large clinical trial
Authors: Anbarasan Thineskrishna , Rogers Amy , Rorie David A. , Grieve J. W. Kerr , Flynn Robert W. V. , MacDonald Thomas M. , Mackenzie Isla S.
Published: March 2021

Home blood pressure monitor (HBPM) ownership prevalence and the factors that influence it are unclear. This study aimed to investigate factors associated with HBPM ownership among participants in the Treatment in Morning versus Evening (TIME) hypertension study. This study is a sub-analysis of the TIME study, a randomised trial investigating the effect of day-time versus night-time dosing of antihypertensive medication on cardiovascular outcomes in adults with hypertension. As part of the TIME study online registration process, participants were asked to indicate whether they owned an HBPM. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to determine factors associated with HBPM ownership. Of 21,104 randomised participants, 11,434 (54.2%) reported owning an HBPM. The mean age of all participants at enrolment was 67.7 ± 9.3 years, 12,134 (57.5%) were male, and 8892 (42.1%) reported a current or previous history of smoking. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of reporting HBPM owned include being male (OR:1.47; 95% CI 1.39–1.56) or residing in a less deprived socioeconomic region (IMD Decile 6–10) (OR:1.31; 95% CI 1.23–1.40). Participants with a history of diabetes mellitus (OR:0.74; 95% CI:0.64–0.86) or current smokers, compared to non-smokers, (OR:0.71; 95% CI:0.62–0.82) were less likely to report owning an HBPM. This study has identified important patient factors influencing HBPM ownership. Further qualitative research would be valuable to identify and explore potential patient-level barriers to engagement with self-monitoring of blood pressure.
Multiple-patterning colloidal lithography-implemented scalable manufacturing of heat-tolerant titanium nitride broadband absorbers in the visible to near-infrared
Authors: Lee Dasol , Go Myeongcheol , Kim Minkyung , Jang Junho , Choi Chungryong , Kim Jin Kon , Rho Junsuk
Published: March 2021

Broadband perfect absorbers have been intensively researched for decades because of their near-perfect absorption optical property that can be applied to diverse applications. Unfortunately, achieving large-scale and heat-tolerant absorbers has been remained challenging work because of costly and time-consuming lithography methods and thermolability of materials, respectively. Here, we demonstrate a thermally robust titanium nitride broadband absorber with >95% absorption efficiency in the visible and near-infrared region (400–900 nm). A relatively large-scale (2.5 cm × 2.5 cm) absorber device is fabricated by using a fabrication technique of multiple-patterning colloidal lithography. The optical properties of the absorber are still maintained even after heating at the temperatures >600 ∘C. Such a large-scale, heat-tolerant, and broadband near-perfect absorber will provide further useful applications in solar thermophotovoltaics, stealth, and absorption controlling in high-temperature conditions.
TCR-like CARs and TCR-CARs targeting neoepitopes: an emerging potential
Authors: Poorebrahim Mansour , Mohammadkhani Niloufar , Mahmoudi Reza , Gholizadeh Monireh , Fakhr Elham , Cid-Arregui Angel
Published: March 2021

Neoepitopes or neoantigens are a spectrum of unique mutations presented in a particular patient’s tumor. Neoepitope-based adoptive therapies have the potential of tumor eradication without undue damaging effect on normal tissues. In this context, methods based on the T cell receptor (TCR) engineering or chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) have shown great promise. This review focuses on the TCR-like CARs and TCR-CARs directed against tumor-derived epitopes, with a concerted view on neoepitopes. We also address the current limitations of the field to know how to harness the full benefits of this approach and thereby design a sustained and specific antitumor therapy.
Fiber-junction design for directional bending sensors
Authors: Li Zhundong , Hu Fengming , Chen Zhiming , Huang Jingcheng , Chen Guoning , Chen Runbo , Wei Minmin , Lao Kete , Hu Jiajia , Zheng Jintao , Wang Lvfei , Yao Yuan , Hu Xiaoyan , Liang Baowen , Yang Min , Lu Xihong , Wen Jinxiu , Luo Jianyi
Published: March 2021

Flexible sensors in wearable electronics have become increasingly multifunctional due to the development of materials synthesis and structure design. In particular, structural design can not only add capabilities to sensors fabricated from existing available and normal materials, but also offer opportunities for the fabrication of sensors with certain desired functions. Here, we designed a series of fiber-junction structure models, in which two fibers were simply hooked to each other to form a junction on a flexible printed circuit, for fabrication of directional bending sensors. The value and direction of bending angle are related to the change in electronic signal by a theoretical expression, allowing us to employ a simple and practicable method to use available conductive fiber materials to fabricate high-sensitivity, high-resolution and directional bending sensors. In addition, these models are generally applicable, which have broad combination with different conductive fiber, and corresponding bending sensors all possess capability of directional identification. Furthermore, the capability of identifying directional bending was demonstrated by human motion monitoring such as joint bending and muscle contraction.
Mixed-cation driven magnetic interaction of interstitial electrons for ferrimagnetic two-dimensional electride
Authors: Lee Seung Yong , Bang Joonho , Song Hyun Yong , Il Yoo Byung , Kim Yeongkwan , Lee Kimoon , Thapa Dinesh , Kim Seong-Gon , Kim Sung Wng
Published: March 2021

Magnetism of pure electrons is fundamental for understanding diverse magnetic phenomena in condensed matters but has not been fully investigated in experiments due to the lack of a tractable model system. Such an exotic material necessitates an exclusive magnetic interaction of electrons being devoid of orbital and lattice degrees of freedom. Here, we report the two-dimensional mixed-cation [YGdC]2+∙2e− electride, showing ferrimagnetic nature from the direct exchange interaction of magnetic interstitial electrons in interlayer space. We identify that magnetic interstitial electrons are periodically localized in octahedral and tetrahedral cavities between 2D cationic Y2−xGdx arrays. The mixed configuration of non-magnetic and magnetic cations in cavities induces divergent spin states and interactions of magnetic interstitial electrons, in which their direct exchange interaction overwhelms the interactions with magnetic cations, triggering the ferrimagnetic spin-alignment. This discovery facilitates further exploration of magnetic electrides and nurtures the study of two-dimensional magnetism of layered crystals and electron phases.
Formation of contractile 3D bovine muscle tissue for construction of millimetre-thick cultured steak
Authors: Furuhashi Mai , Morimoto Yuya , Shima Ai , Nakamura Futoshi , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Takeuchi Shoji
Published: March 2021

Owing to the increase in the global demand of meat, cultured meat technology is being developed to circumvent a shortage of meat in the future. However, methods for construction of millimetre-thick bovine muscle tissues with highly aligned myotubes have not yet been established. Here, we propose a culture method for constructing 3D-cultured bovine muscle tissue containing myotubes aligned along its long-axial direction, which contracted in response to electrical stimulation. First, we optimised the composition of biomaterials used in the construction and the electrical stimulation applied to the tissue during culture. Subsequently, we fabricated millimetre-thick bovine muscle tissues containing highly aligned myotubes by accumulating bovine myoblast-laden hydrogel modules. The microbial content of the bovine muscle tissue cultured for 14 days was below the detection limit, indicating that the muscle tissues were sterile, unlike commercial meat. Therefore, the proposed construction method for bovine muscle tissues will be useful for the production of clean cultured steak meat simulating real meat.
ChAdOx1-vectored Lassa fever vaccine elicits a robust cellular and humoral immune response and protects guinea pigs against lethal Lassa virus challenge
Authors: Fischer Robert J. , Purushotham Jyothi N. , van Doremalen Neeltje , Sebastian Sarah , Meade-White Kimberly , Cordova Kathleen , Letko Michael , Jeremiah Matson M. , Feldmann Friederike , Haddock Elaine , LaCasse Rachel , Saturday Greg , Lambe Teresa , Gilbert Sarah C. , Munster Vincent J.
Published: March 2021

Lassa virus (LASV) infects hundreds of thousands of individuals each year, highlighting the need for the accelerated development of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions. To date, no vaccine has been licensed for LASV. ChAdOx1-Lassa-GPC is a chimpanzee adenovirus-vectored vaccine encoding the Josiah strain LASV glycoprotein precursor (GPC) gene. In the following study, we show that ChAdOx1-Lassa-GPC is immunogenic, inducing robust T-cell and antibody responses in mice. Furthermore, a single dose of ChAdOx1-Lassa-GPC fully protects Hartley guinea pigs against morbidity and mortality following lethal challenge with a guinea pig-adapted LASV (strain Josiah). By contrast, control vaccinated animals reached euthanasia criteria 10–12 days after infection. Limited amounts of LASV RNA were detected in the tissues of vaccinated animals. Viable LASV was detected in only one animal receiving a single dose of the vaccine. A prime-boost regimen of ChAdOx1-Lassa-GPC in guinea pigs significantly increased antigen-specific antibody titers and cleared viable LASV from the tissues. These data support further development of ChAdOx1-Lassa-GPC and testing in non-human primate models of infection.
Occupational and environmental risk factors of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a systematic review and meta-analyses
Authors: Park Yeonkyung , Ahn Chiwon , Kim Tae-Hyung
Published: March 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease of unknown cause. It has a high risk of rapid progression and mortality. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risk factor of IPF. We searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library from the earliest record to March, 2020. Case–control studies on occupational and environmental risk factors or on jobs with a risk of IPF were searched for. From 2490 relevant records, 12 studies were included. Any occupational or environmental exposure to metal dust (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.15–2.91, I2 = 54%), wood dust (OR 1.62 5% CI 1.04–2.53, I2 = 5%) and pesticide (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.24–3.45, I2 = 0%) were associated with an increased risk of IPF. Farming or agricultural work (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.17–3.04, I2 = 67%) was also associated with an increased risk of IPF. Moreover, smoking increased IPF risk with an odds ratio of 1.39 (95% CI 1.01–1.91, I2 = 29%). In conclusion, metal dust, wood dust, pesticide, occupational history of farming or agriculture and ever smoking increased the risk of IPF.
In silico screening and analysis of nonsynonymous SNPs in human CYP1A2 to assess possible associations with pathogenicity and cancer susceptibility
Authors: Navapour Leila , Mogharrab Navid
Published: March 2021

Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) is one of the main hepatic CYPs involved in metabolism of carcinogens and clinically used drugs. Nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) of this enzyme could affect cancer susceptibility and drug efficiency. Hence, identification of human CYP1A2 pathogenic nsSNPs could be of great importance in personalized medicine and pharmacogenetics. Here, 176 nsSNPs of human CYP1A2 were evaluated using a variety of computational tools, of which 18 nsSNPs were found to be associated with pathogenicity. Further analysis suggested possible association of 9 nsSNPs (G73R, G73W, R108Q, R108W, E168K, E346K, R431W, F432S and R456H) with the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed higher overall flexibility, decreased intramolecular hydrogen bonds and lower content of regular secondary structures for both cancer driver variants G73W and F432S when compared to the wild-type structure. In case of F432S, loss of the conserved hydrogen bond between Arg137 and heme propionate oxygen may affect heme stability and the observed significant rise in fluctuation of the CD loop could modify CYP1A2 interactions with its redox partners. Together, these findings propose CYP1A2 as a possible candidate for hepatocellular carcinoma and provide structural insights into how cancer driver nsSNPs could affect protein structure, heme stability and interaction network.
MAPRE2 mutations result in altered human cranial neural crest migration, underlying craniofacial malformations in CSC-KT syndrome
Authors: Thues Cedric , Valadas Jorge S. , Deaulmerie Liesbeth , Geens Ann , Chouhan Amit K. , Duran-Romaña Ramon , Schymkowitz Joost , Rousseau Frederic , Bartusel Michaela , Rehimi Rizwan , Rada-Iglesias Alvaro , Verstreken Patrik , Van Esch Hilde
Published: March 2021

Circumferential skin creases (CSC-KT) is a rare polymalformative syndrome characterised by intellectual disability associated with skin creases on the limbs, and very characteristic craniofacial malformations. Previously, heterozygous and homozygous mutations in MAPRE2 were found to be causal for this disease. MAPRE2 encodes for a member of evolutionary conserved microtubule plus end tracking proteins, the end binding (EB) family. Unlike MAPRE1 and MAPRE3, MAPRE2 is not required for the persistent growth and stabilization of microtubules, but plays a role in other cellular processes such as mitotic progression and regulation of cell adhesion. The mutations identified in MAPRE2 all reside within the calponin homology domain, responsible to track and interact with the plus-end tip of growing microtubules, and previous data showed that altered dosage of MAPRE2 resulted in abnormal branchial arch patterning in zebrafish. In this study, we developed patient derived induced pluripotent stem cell lines for MAPRE2, together with isogenic controls, using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and differentiated them towards neural crest cells with cranial identity. We show that changes in MAPRE2 lead to alterations in neural crest migration in vitro but also in vivo, following xenotransplantation of neural crest progenitors into developing chicken embryos. In addition, we provide evidence that changes in focal adhesion might underlie the altered cell motility of the MAPRE2 mutant cranial neural crest cells. Our data provide evidence that MAPRE2 is involved in cellular migration of cranial neural crest and offers critical insights into the mechanism underlying the craniofacial dysmorphisms and cleft palate present in CSC-KT patients. This adds the CSC-KT disorder to the growing list of neurocristopathies.
The interplay of labile organic carbon, enzyme activities and microbial communities of two forest soils across seasons
Authors: Xu Chen-yang , Du Can , Jian Jin-shi , Hou Lin , Wang Zhi-kang , Wang Qiang , Geng Zeng-chao
Published: March 2021

Soil labile organic carbon (LOC) responds rapidly to environmental changes and plays an important role in carbon cycle. In this study, the seasonal fluctuations in LOC, the activities of carbon-cycle related enzymes, and the bacterial and fungal communities were analyzed for soils collected from two forests, namely Betula albosinensis (Ba) and Picea asperata Mast. (Pa), in the Qinling Mountains of China. Results revealed that the seasonal average contents of microbial biomass carbon (MBC), easily oxidized organic carbon (EOC), and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) of Pa forest soil were 13.5%, 30.0% and 15.7% less than those in Ba soil. The seasonal average enzyme activities of β-1,4-glucosidase (βG), and β-1,4-xylosidase (βX) of Ba forest soils were 30.0% and 32.3% higher than those of Pa soil while the enzyme activity of cellobiohydrolase (CBH) was 19.7% lower. Furthermore, the relative abundance of Acidobacteria was significantly higher in summer than in winter, whereas the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes was higher in winter. Regarding the fungal communities, the relative abundance of Basidiomycota was lowest in winter, whereas Ascomycota predominated in the same season. In addition, the soil LOC was significantly positively correlated with the CBH, βG and βX activities. Changes in LOC were significantly correlated with Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Basidiomycota. We conclude that the seasonal fluctuations in forest soil LOC fractions relied on carbon cycle-associated enzymatic activities and microorganisms, which in turn were affected by climatic conditions.